bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of MALDI biotyper compared with Vitek™ 2 compact system for fast identification and discrimination of Staphylococcus species isolated from bovine mastitis
Authors: Elbehiry Ayman , Al‐Dubaib Musaad , Marzouk Eman , Osman Salama , Edrees Husam
Published: July 2016

This study was designed to evaluate the ability of MALDI Biotyper (MBT) compared with Vitek™ 2 compact system for accurate identification of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CNS) strains and discriminate methicillin‐sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) from methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Throughout Al‐Qassim region, Saudi Arabia, a total of 198 isolates of S. aureus (132 MSSA and 66 MRSA) and 44 CNS were collected from five dairy farms where the prevalence of staphylococcal mastitis was reported. The results produced by Vitek™ 2 compact system demonstrated that 123/132 MSSA isolates (93.18%), 61/66 MRSA (92.42%), and 37/44 CNS species (84.09%) were correctly identified. However; 130/132 MSSA (98.48%), 64/66 MRSA (96.96%), and 44/44 CNS (100%) were correctly identified by MBT with score ≥2. 00. The principal component analysis (PCA) dendrogram generated by MBT illustrated that the tested isolates were classified into two groups of Staphylococcus species at the distance level of 600. S. aureus isolates were found to be closely related with higher peak intensities in the mass of 3,993 Da, 4,121 Da and 5,845 Da were detected in MRSA, whereas, that were lost in MSSA. Conclusion: This study verified that MBT is an alternative powerful tool for precise identification and discrimination of Staphylococcus species.
A regularity criterion for two‐and‐half‐dimensional magnetohydrodynamic equations with horizontal dissipation and horizontal magnetic diffusion
Authors: Regmi Dipendra
Published: July 2016

We study the global regularity of classical solution to two‐and‐half‐dimensional magnetohydrodynamic equations with horizontal dissipation and horizontal magnetic diffusion. We prove that any possible finite time blow‐up can be controlled by the L∞‐norm of the vertical components. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combinational effects of muscarinic receptor inhibition and β3‐adrenoceptor stimulation on neurogenic bladder dysfunction in rats with spinal cord injury
Authors: Wada Naoki , Shimizu Takahiro , Takai Shun , Shimizu Nobutaka , Tyagi Pradeep , Kakizaki Hidehiro , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: July 2016

Aims

To investigate the effects of combined therapy with an anticholinergic agent and a β3‐adrenoceptor agonist on bladder dysfunction and proliferation‐related molecule expression in rats with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

The spinal cord was transected at the level of T8‐9 in female Sprague‐Dawley rats, which were divided into four groups; A: Vehicle, B: 10 mg/kg/day of oxybutynin, C: 10 mg/kg/day of mirabegron, and D: combined administration of oxybutynin and mirabegron. Drugs were administered by oral gavage from 2 to 4 weeks after spinal cord transection. We evaluated urodynamic parameters and bladder tissue remodeling factors.

Results

Non‐voiding contractions (NVCs) during the storage phase of cystometrograms tended to be decreased in all three treated groups with a significant reduction in group D versus A. Bladder compliance was improved, and intercontraction intervals, voided volume and bladder capacity were increased in group D. In all three treated groups (B–D), the expression of HIF1‐α and TGF‐β1 was decreased compared to group A. The expression of collagen‐III and bFGF was decreased in groups B and D. The total bladder elastin level was increased in group D.

Conclusions

The combination therapy of an anticholinergic agent and a β3‐adrenoceptor agonist elevated the bladder elastin level, reduced NVCs, and increased bladder compliance more effectively than the monotherapy in SCI rats. Thus, the combination therapy could be effective for the treatment of neurogenic bladder dysfunction including bladder remodeling. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:1039–1045, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of newer self‐monitoring technology and brief phone‐based intervention on weight loss: A randomized pilot study
Authors: Ross Kathryn M. , Wing Rena R.
Published: July 2016

Objective

Despite the proliferation of newer self‐monitoring technology (e.g., activity monitors and smartphone apps), their impact on weight loss outside of structured in‐person behavioral intervention is unknown.

Methods

A randomized, controlled pilot study was conducted to examine efficacy of self‐monitoring technology, with and without phone‐based intervention, on 6‐month weight loss in adults with overweight and obesity. Eighty participants were randomized to receive standard self‐monitoring tools (ST, n = 26), technology‐based self‐monitoring tools (TECH, n = 27), or technology‐based tools combined with phone‐based intervention (TECH + PHONE, n = 27). All participants attended one introductory weight loss session and completed assessments at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.

Results

Weight loss from baseline to 6 months differed significantly between groups P = 0.042; there was a trend for TECH + PHONE (−6.4 ± 1.2 kg) to lose more weight than ST (−1.3 ± 1.2 kg); weight loss in TECH (−4.1 ± 1.4 kg) was between ST and TECH + PHONE. Fewer ST (15%) achieved ≥5% weight losses compared with TECH and TECH + PHONE (44%), P = 0.039. Adherence to self‐monitoring caloric intake was higher in TECH + PHONE than TECH or ST, Ps < 0.05.

Conclusions

These results suggest use of newer self‐monitoring technology plus brief phone‐based intervention improves adherence and weight loss compared with traditional self‐monitoring tools. Further research should determine cost‐effectiveness of adding phone‐based intervention when providing self‐monitoring technology.
Influences of Aerobic Dance on Cognitive Performance in Adults with Schizophrenia
Authors: Chen Ming‐De , Kuo Yu‐Hsin , Chang Yen‐Ching , Hsu Su‐Ting , Kuo Chang‐Chih , Chang Jyh‐Jong
Published: July 2016

Cognitive impairment is one of the core features of schizophrenia. This study examined the influences of an aerobic dance programme on the cognitive functions of people with schizophrenia. A quasi‐experimental matched‐control design was applied. The experimental group (n = 17) participated in a 60‐minute aerobic dance group class three times a week for 3 months. The control group (n = 19) participated in colouring and handwriting activities. Cognitive functions were measured before and after the interventions for both groups. The intervention group experienced significant improvements in processing speed, memory and executive function, whereas no significant changes were noted in any measures in the control group. While there were no significant between‐group differences, the data showed approximately medium effect sizes that favoured the intervention group in regard to processing speed (Cohen's d = 0.51), memory (d = 0.35–0.41) and the spontaneity and fluency aspects of executive function (d = 0.51). While the small sample size and lack of randomization were the primary methodological shortcomings, this study provides preliminary results supporting aerobic dance as an adjunct activity‐based intervention to improve cognitive functions in people with schizophrenia. More rigorous studies are needed to validate the findings. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Doppler‐Effekt für rotierende Objekte
Authors: Zentgraf Thomas
Published: July 2016

Der Doppler‐Effekt ist weitläufig bekannt durch seine Anwendung bei der Geschwindigkeitsmessung von bewegten Objekten. Neben dem Doppler‐Effekt für geradlinige Bewegungen existiert jedoch auch ein analoger Effekt bei Drehbewegungen, der ebenfalls zu einer Verschiebung der Wellenlänge führt. Nach fast 50 Jahren ist es nun erstmalig gelungen, den nichtlinearen Rotations‐Doppler‐Effekt von Licht im Experiment nachzuweisen.
Crosslinkable high dielectric constant polymer dielectrics for low voltage organic field‐effect transistor memory devices
Authors: Hung Chih‐Chien , Wu Hung‐Chin , Chiu Yu‐Cheng , Tung Shih‐Huang , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: July 2016

In this study, we successfully synthesized water/methanol soluble random copolymers with a high dielectric constant, poly(n‐(hydroxymethyl) acrylamide‐co‐5‐(9‐(5‐(diethylamino)pentyl)−2‐(4‐vinylphenyl)−9H‐fluorene(P(NMA‐co‐F6NSt)), which contained chemical crosslinkable segment (NMA) and hole trapping building block (F6NSt). The feeding molar ratios of two monomers (NMA:F6NSt) were set as 100:0, 95:5, 80:20, and 67:33 for the copolymers of P1, P2, P3, and P4, respectively. The crosslinked P(NMA‐co‐F6NSt) thin film could serve as both dielectric and charge storage layers in organic field‐effect transistor (OFET) memory device and exhibited high k (i.e., 4.91–6.47) characteristics, leading to a low voltage operation and a small power consumption. Devices based on the P1‐P4 dielectrics showed excellent insulating properties and good charge storage performance under a low operating voltage in a range of ±5V because of tightly network structures and well‐dispersed trapping cites. In particular, P3‐based memory device exhibited a large memory window of 4.13 V with stable data retention stability over 104 s, a large on/off ratio of 104, and good endurance characteristics as high as 200 cycles. The above results suggested that a high‐performance OFET memory device could be facilely achieved using the novel crosslinkable high‐k copolymers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3224–3236
Toxicity of squamocin on Aedes aegypti larvae, its predators and human cells
Authors: Costa Marilza S , Santana Antônio EG , Oliveira Leandro L , Zanuncio José C , Serrão José E
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

The mosquito Aedes aegypti transmits a virus that causes diverse human diseases, and control of the vector is an important strategy to avoid disease propagation. Plants in the family Annonaceae are recognised as sources of molecules with uses in the medical and agriculture fields. Molecules of secondary metabolites of Annonaceae plants exhibit insecticidal potential against insect pests and vectors, especially acetogenins, showing high toxicity at low doses, which has encouraged research into producing new insecticide molecules. Herein, we identify an acetogenin from Annona mucosa seeds (chemical analysis) and provide the results of toxicity tests against larvae of A. aegypti (target insect) and its predators Culex bigoti and Toxorhynchites theobaldi (non‐target insects) and cytotoxicity to human leukocytes.

RESULTS

We identified squamocin (C37H66O7), a fatty acid with a bis‐tetrahydrofuran ring. In A. aegypti, this compound caused behavioural disturbance before larval death and high mortality at low concentrations (LC50 = 0.01 µg mL−1 and LC90 = 0.11 µg mL−1). However, in predators and human leukocytes, squamocin showed no toxicity effect, indicating the selectivity of this molecule for non‐target organisms.

CONCLUSION

We identified squamocin from A. mucosa seeds, which exhibited lethal action against A. aegypti and showed selectivity for non‐target insects and low cytotoxicity to human cells. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Nanocomposite Hydrogels as Platform for Cells Growth, Proliferation, and Chemotaxis
Authors: Fiorini Federica , Prasetyanto Eko Adi , Taraballi Francesca , Pandolfi Laura , Monroy Francisco , López‐Montero Iván , Tasciotti Ennio , De Cola Luisa
Published: July 2016

The challenge of mimicking the extracellular matrix with artificial scaffolds that are able to reduce immunoresponse is still unmet. Recent findings have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) infiltrating into the implanted scaffold have effects on the implant integration by improving the healing process. Toward this aim, a novel polyamidoamine‐based nanocomposite hydrogel is synthesized, cross‐linked with porous nanomaterials (i.e., mesoporous silica nanoparticles), able to release chemokine proteins. A comprehensive viscoelasticity study confirms that the hydrogel provides optimal structural support for MSC infiltration and proliferation. The efficiency of this hydrogel, containing the chemoattractant stromal cell‐derived factor 1α (SDF‐1α), in promoting MSC migration in vitro is demonstrated. Finally, subcutaneous implantation of SDF‐1α‐releasing hydrogels in mice results in a modulation of the inflammatory reaction. Overall, the proposed SDF‐1α‐nanocomposite hydrogel proves to have potential for applications in tissue engineering.
Untersuchungen zum Nachweis der Stabilität aus der Ebene auf einheitlicher Grundlage
Authors: Wieschollek Matthias , Heinemeyer Christoph , Feldmann Markus
Published: July 2016

Die Verallgemeinerung von Biegeknick‐ und Biegedrillknicknachweisen erfordert die Formulierung einer einheitlichen Grundlage für Grenzzustand und Imperfektion. Ziel ist es, mit einer nichtlinearen Berechnung und zutreffenden Imperfektionsannahmen auf Ergebnisse zu kommen, die mit den Knickkurven konsistent sind. In diesem Beitrag wird mit der Aufbereitung der einheitlichen Grundlage für das Biegedrillknicken begonnen und die Anwendung anhand eines Beispiels verdeutlicht. Des Weiteren wird über erste Ergebnisse einer Versuchsreihe zum Biegedrillknicken von Trägern mit variablen Momentenverläufen berichtet. Möglichst klare Randbedingungen und richtungstreue Last auf dem zur Seite ausweichenden Obergurt erforderten einen neuen Versuchsstand sowie eine seitengeregelte Nachführung des Hydraulikzylinders.

Investigations on the verification of out of plane stability on a generalised basis. The general method for the verification of flexural and lateral torsional buckling is an interesting alternative to ordinary checking procedures with substitute beams and coefficients. By introducing a design point relevant for the verification, the method becomes more precise. It then leads to same results as a non‐linear calculation with an imperfection shape that is affine to the critical shape, the curvature amplitude of which is scaled to the Euler buckling column. By that the method is fully mechanically justified. By considering St. Venant torsion, it is also transferrable to lateral torsional buckling problems. Within this paper the lateral torsional buckling check using the general method is shown and illustrated by means of an example. Furthermore, first results of a test series on lateral torsional buckling of beams with variable moment shapes are presented. Clear boundary conditions and a load direction that remains vertical throughout the whole course of a bending test with lateral torsional buckling required a new test setup and control of the lateral shift of the hydraulic jack.
Severe thunderstorm over Esenboğa International Airport in Turkey on 15 July 2013
Authors: Tuncay Özdemir E. , Deniz Ali
Published: July 2016

In this study a severe thunderstorm that occurred at Esenboğa International Airport (ICAO code: LTAC) on 15 July 2013 is investigated. A heavy thunderstorm with hail and rain showers occurred at 1432 utc. The maximum wind speed of 61kn was measured at 1434 utc. During a 14min time interval, 16.2mm of precipitation was observed. The aircraft parking area was under water, and rainwater leaked from the terminal roof, which affected passengers. For LTAC and its surroundings, a 57dBZ maximum radar echo intensity (reflectivity) was measured.
Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Young Children 2 Years After the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Fujiwara Takeo , Yagi Junko , Homma Hiroaki , Mashiko Hirofumi , Nagao Keizo , Okuyama Makiko ,   the Great East Japan Earthquake Follow up for Children Study Team
Published: July 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its association with each traumatic experience among 5- to 8-year-old children 2 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Method

Children ages 5-8 years who were in selected preschool classes on March 11, 2011, in 3 prefectures affected by the earthquake and 1 prefecture that was unaffected, participated in the study (N=280). PTSD symptoms were assessed through questionnaires completed by caregivers and interviews by psychiatrists or psychologists conducted between September 2012 and May 2013 (ie, 1.5-2 years after the earthquake).

Results

Among children who experienced the earthquake, 33.8% exhibited PTSD symptoms. Of the different traumatic experiences, experiencing the earthquake and the loss of distant relatives or friends were independently associated with PTSD symptoms; prevalence ratios: 6.88 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.06-23.0) and 2.48 (95% CI: 1.21-5.08), respectively.

Conclusion

Approximately 1 in 3 young children in the affected communities exhibited PTSD symptoms, even 2 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake. These data may be useful for preventing PTSD symptoms after natural disasters and suggest the importance of providing appropriate mental health services for children. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:207–215)
Moderation without Change: The Strategic Transformation of Sinn Féin and the IRA in Northern Ireland
Authors: Whiting Matthew
Published: July 2016

This article examines how violent separatist groups moderate. Using the case of Sinn Féin and the IRA in Northern Ireland, it shows that moderation is a multidimensional process, entailing a change in strategic behaviour but not necessarily in the goals or values of a separatist group. For Irish republicans, moderation entailed giving up violent revolution and embracing peaceful reformism, but it did not require changing long-term goals, accepting the legitimacy of British rule in Northern Ireland, or distancing themselves from their history of armed struggle. Moderation was possible because both Irish republicans and the British state distinguished between republicans’ strategic behaviour and their political goals, with the British state neither expecting nor demanding a change in the goals of republicanism, and republicans showing a willingness to change tactics to bring them closer to their long-term goal of a united Ireland. This finding has important implications for the moderation of other radical separatist groups.
A New Bilayer Continuum Model Based on Gurtin-Murdoch and Consistent Couple-Stress Theories for Stability Analysis of Beam-Type Nanotweezers
Authors: Keivani M. , Koochi A. , Abadyan M.
Published: July 2016

Nano-scale beams might not be considered uniform isotropic since the energy of the surface layer and microstructure of the bulk part highly affect the mechanical characteristics of the beams. Herein, the impact of the energy of the surface layer and the microstructure of the bulk on the mechanical stability of beam-type nanotweezers are investigated. A new bilayer continuum model has been developed which incorporates the strain energy of the surface atoms as well as the microstructure-dependent strain energy of the bulk material. The recently-developed consistent couple stress elasticity (CCSE) in combination with the Gurtin-Murdoch surface theory is applied to derive the governing equation. The nonlinear governing equation was solved using numerical generalized differential quadrature (GDQ). Effects of various parameters including characteristics of the surface layer, microstructure of the bulk and external forces on the static and dynamic stability threshold of the nanostructure are demonstrated.
Ichnofauna from coastal meandering channel systems (Upper Cretaceous Tremp Formation, South-Central Pyrenees, Spain): delineating the fluvial-tidal transition
Authors: Díez-Canseco Davinia , Buatois Luis A. , Mángano M. Gabriela , Díaz-Molina Margarita , Benito M. Isabel
Published: July 2016

The Upper Cretaceous “redbeds” of the lower Tremp Formation (South-Central Pyrenees, Spain) contains an ichnofauna consisting ofTaenidium barretti,Taenidium bowni,Loloichnusisp.,Arenicolitesisp.,Planolitesisp., andPalaeophycusisp. This ichnofauna occurs in deposits formed in tide-influenced meander loops and their associated overbank mudflats. Evaluation of the taphonomic controls on the Tremp ichnofauna shows that (1) two morphotypes ofTaenidium barrettiare controlled by the substrate consistence, (2)Arenicolitesmay be enlarged by erosion processes, and (3)Taenidium barrettiandPlanolitesisp. are not the same ichnotaxa showing different types of preservation. The meniscate fill inTaenidium barrettisuggests that this structure was produced by deposit feeders. The Tremp ichnofauna is grouped into two trace-fossil assemblages, a depauperate subaquatic monospecificPlanolitessuite and an assemblage representing theScoyeniaIchnofacies. Trace-fossil distribution reflects paleoenvironmental changes in the meandering channels along the stratigraphic section with thePlanolitessuite in the lowermost part of the lower interval and theScoyeniaIchnofacies in the middle and upper intervals. The lowermost suite may be likely formed seaward of the maximum salinity limit, under extreme brackish-water conditions, whereas theScoyeniaIchnofacies records a freshwater assemblage that was formed landward of the maximum salinity limit, reflecting deltaic progradation.
Anger and stroke: a potential association that deserves serious consideration
Authors: Rosa Pedro Banho , Orquiza Bruna , Rocha Filipe Benetti , Donadel Rafael Werlanger , Diniz Rodrigo Pizzolante , Beloni Tamara Maia Nestlehner , Aniceto Joara Turi , Fragoso Yara Dadalti
Published: July 2016

Objective

To assess the relationship between states of anger and stroke.

Methods

Systematic review of the literature.

Results

In total, 21 papers were selected for the systematic review of data published on the subject of anger and stroke. A state of anger may be a risk factor for stroke, as well as a consequence of brain lesions affecting specific areas that are caused by a stroke. Scales to assess anger varied among authors. There was no consensus regarding the area of brain lesions that might lead to a state of anger. Although some authors agreed that lesions on the right side led to angrier behaviour, others found that lesions on the left side were more relevant to anger. Likewise, there was no consensus regarding the prevalence of anger pre or post-stroke. Some authors did not even find that these two conditions were related.

Conclusion

Although most authors have accepted that there is a relationship between anger and stroke, studies with uniform methodology need to be conducted if this association is to be properly evaluated and understood.
Bridge Individuals in Multinational Organisations
Authors: Sekiguchi Tomoki
Published: July 2016

In multinational organisations, individuals who mediate or bridge between different national and cultural groups, such as headquarters (HQ) and foreign subsidiaries, play a critical role and are known as ‘bridge individuals’. This perspective article reviews the recent literature on bridge individuals and offers future research directions in which organisational psychology can contribute to the deeper understanding of the individuals in this role. I propose the interdisciplinary approach, in which knowledge of organisational psychology and other academic fields, such as cognitive linguistics, cross-cultural communication, and social network theory, are integrated when studying bridge individuals.
Dairy cheese consumption ameliorates single-meal sodium-induced cutaneous microvascular dysfunction by reducing ascorbate-sensitive oxidants in healthy older adults
Authors: Stanhewicz Anna E. , Alba Billie K. , Kenney W. Larry , Alexander Lacy M.
Published: July 2016

Chronic dairy product intake is associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes, whereas high dietary Na impairs endothelial function through increased oxidative stress and reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of acute cheese consumption with consumption of Na from non-dairy sources on microvascular function. We hypothesised that dairy cheese ingestion would augment NO-dependent vasodilation compared with Na from non-dairy sources. On five visits, fourteen subjects (61 (sem 2) years, eight male/six female) consumed either 85 g dairy cheese (560 mg Na), 85 g soya cheese (560 mg Na), 65 g pretzels (560 mg Na), 170 g dairy cheese (1120 mg Na) or 130 g pretzels (1120 mg Na). Two intradermal microdialysis fibres were inserted in the ventral forearm for delivery of lactated Ringer’s solution or 10 mm-ascorbate (antioxidant) during local skin heating (approximately 50 min). Erythrocyte flux was measured continuously by laser-Doppler flowmetry (LDF), and cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC=LDF/mean arterial pressure) was normalised as %CVCmax (28 mm-sodium nitroprusside). Following a plateau in CVC, 15 mm-NG-nitro-l-arginine-methyl-ester was perfused to quantify NO-dependent vasodilation (approximately 45 min). NO-dependent vasodilation was greater following consumption of dairy products (560 mg Na 57 (sem 3) %) (1120 mg Na 55 (sem 5) %) compared with soya (560 mg Na 42 (sem 3) %; P=0·002) or pretzels (560 mg Na 43 (sem 4) %; P=0·004) (1120 mg Na 46 (sem 3) %; P=0·04). Ascorbate augmented NO-dependent vasodilation following intake of soya (control: 42 (sem 3) v. ascorbate: 54 (sem 3) %; P=0·01) or pretzels (560 mg Na; control: 43 (sem 4) v. ascorbate: 56 (sem 3) %; P=0·006) (1120 mg Na; control: 46 (sem 5) v. ascorbate: 56 (sem 3) %; P=0·02), but not dairy products. Na ingestion via dairy products was associated with greater NO-dependent vasodilation compared with non-dairy products, a difference that was ameliorated with ascorbate perfusion. The antioxidant properties of dairy proteins may protect against Na-induced reductions in NO-dependent dilation.
The priming of word order in second language German
Authors: JACKSON CARRIE N. , RUF HELENA T.
Published: July 2016

The present study investigates the priming and subsequent production of word order variation (adverb–verb–subject vs. subject–verb–adverb order) with temporal phrases (Experiment 1) and locative phrases (Experiment 2) among intermediate English–German second language learners. Participants exhibited comparable short-term priming for adverb-first word order in both experiments. In the initial baseline phase, participants produced adverb-first sentences with temporal phrases but not locative phrases, and only temporal phrases led to significant long-term priming, as measured in a postpriming phase. This suggests that at lower proficiency levels, long-term, but not short-term, priming may depend on the stability of specific semantically constrained constructions rather than more generalized syntactic representations and that such cumulative effects may be shaped by preferences for a particular construction in the native language.
Parametric excitation of surface plasma waves by stimulated Compton scattering of laser beam at metal-free space interface
Authors: Goel D. , Chauhan P. , Varshney A. , Sajal V.
Published: July 2016

An obliquely incident high-power laser (ω0,k0z) on the metallic surface can resonantly excite a surface plasma wave (SPW) (ω1,k1z) and a quasi-electrostatic plasma wave (ω,kz) inside the skin layer at the phase-matching conditions of frequency ω1= ω − ω0and wave numberk1z=kz−k0z. The oscillating electrons in the skin layer couples with the seed SPW and exert non-linear ponderomotive force on electrons at the frequency of quasi-static mode. Density perturbations due to quasi-static mode and ponderomotive force associate with the motion of electrons (due to incident laser) and give rise to a non-linear current by feedback mechanism. At ω/kz~vF(wherevFis the Fermi velocity of metal) this non-linear current is responsible for the growth of SPW. The maximum growth of the present process (≅1.5 × 1012s−1) is achieved at incident angle θ = 42° for laser frequency ω0= 2 × 1015rad/s. Growth of SPW enhances from 1.62 × 1011to ≅1.5 × 1012s−1as the magnetic field changes from 12 to 24 MG. The excited SPW can be utilized for surface heating and diagnostics purpose.
Falls and Wrist Fracture: Relationship to Women’s Functional Status after Age 50
Authors: Arnold Catherine M. , Dal Bello-Haas Vanina P.M. , Farthing Jonathan P. , Crockett Katie L. , Haver Charlene R.A. , Johnston Geoffrey , Basran Jenny
Published: July 2016

Après l’âge de cinquante ans, les femmes éprouvent une hausse rapide de l’incidence des fractures du poignet. En conséquence, cette étude vise (1) de déterminer les circonstances internes et environnementaux liés aux chutes entraînant des fractures du poignet, et (2) d’examiner la relation entre l’état fonctionnel et de telles circonstances. Les femmes âgées de 50 à 94 années sont rapportées sur la nature de la blessure (n= 99) et ont subi tests pour l’activité physique, l’équilibre, la force et la mobilité (n= 72). La majorité des chutes causant la fracture d’un poignet a eu lieu à l’extérieur, pendant les mois d’hiver, à la suite d’un glissement ou trébuchement tout en marchant. La moitié de ces chutes a entraîné d’autres blessures, y compris à la tête et au cou, et des traumatismes médullaires. Une vitesse plus rapide de la marche, une force inférieure d’adhérence, et une plus grande confiance en équilibre ont été toutes significativement associées aux chutes à l’extérieure, par comparaison aux chutes, glissades et trébuchements intérieures contre d’autres causes. Cette étude donne un aperçu des mesures de dépistage et de prévention potentielles pour les fractures du poignet liées aux chutes parmi les femmes.
The KB paradigm and its application to interactive configuration
Authors: VAN HERTUM PIETER , DASSEVILLE INGMAR , JANSSENS GERDA , DENECKER MARC
Published: July 2016

The knowledge base (KB) paradigm aims to express domain knowledge in a rich formal language, and to use this domain knowledge as a KB to solve various problems and tasks that arise in the domain by applying multiple forms of inference. As such, the paradigm applies a strict separation of concerns between information and problem solving. In this paper, we analyze the principles and feasibility of the KB paradigm in the context of an important class of applications: interactive configuration problems. In interactive configuration problems, a configuration of interrelated objects under constraints is searched, where the system assists the user in reaching an intended configuration. It is widely recognized in industry that good software solutions for these problems are very difficult to develop. We investigate such problems from the perspective of the KB paradigm. We show that multiple functionalities in this domain can be achieved by applying different forms of logical inferences on a formal specification of the configuration domain. We report on a proof of concept of this approach in a real-life application with a banking company.
What Causes Heavy Rainfall?
Authors: Yan Wudan
Published: July 2016

Scientists investigate atmospheric conditions that correlate to heavy rainfall in the midlatitudes.
‘Acute myeloid leukemia: a comprehensive review and 2016 update’
Authors: De Kouchkovsky I , Abdul-Hay M
Published: July 2016

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common acute leukemia in adults, with an incidence of over 20 000 cases per year in the United States alone. Large chromosomal translocations as well as mutations in the genes involved in hematopoietic proliferation and differentiation result in the accumulation of poorly differentiated myeloid cells. AML is a highly heterogeneous disease; although cases can be stratified into favorable, intermediate and adverse-risk groups based on their cytogenetic profile, prognosis within these categories varies widely. The identification of recurrent genetic mutations, such as FLT3-ITD, NMP1 and CEBPA, has helped refine individual prognosis and guide management. Despite advances in supportive care, the backbone of therapy remains a combination of cytarabine- and anthracycline-based regimens with allogeneic stem cell transplantation for eligible candidates. Elderly patients are often unable to tolerate such regimens, and carry a particularly poor prognosis. Here, we review the major recent advances in the treatment of AML.
Characterizing the inflammatory response in esophageal mucosal biopsies in children with eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Sayej Wael N , Ménoret Antoine , Maharjan Anu S , Fernandez Marina , Wang Zhu , Balarezo Fabiola , Hyams Jeffrey S , Sylvester Francisco A , Vella Anthony T
Published: July 2016

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an emerging allergic, IgE‐ and non‐IgE (Th2 cell)‐mediated disease. There are major gaps in the understanding of the basic mechanisms that drive the persistence of EoE. We investigated whether esophageal biopsies from children with EoE demonstrate an inflammatory response that is distinct from normal controls. We prospectively enrolled 84 patients, of whom 77 were included in our analysis, aged 4–17 years (12.8±3.8 years; 81% males). Five esophageal biopsies were collected from each patient at the time of endoscopy. Intramucosal lymphocytes were isolated, phenotyped and stimulated with phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate/ionomycin to measure their potential to produce cytokines via flow cytometry. We also performed cytokine arrays on 72‐h biopsy culture supernatants. CD8+ T cells, compared with CD4+ T cells, synthesized more TNF‐α and interferon (IFN)‐γ after mitogen stimulation in the EoE‐New/Active vs EoE‐Remission group (P=0.0098; P=0.02) and controls (P=0.0008; P=0.03). Culture supernatants taken from explant esophageal tissue contained 13 analytes that distinguished EoE‐New/Active from EoE‐Remission and Controls. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis based on these analytes distinctly separated EoE‐New/Active from EoE‐Remission and Controls. In summary, we have identified a previously unappreciated role for CD8+ T lymphocytes with potential to produce TNF‐α and IFN‐γ in EoE. Our results suggest that CD8+ T cells have a role in the persistence or progression of EoE. We have also identified a panel of analytes produced by intact esophageal biopsies that differentiates EoE‐New/Active from EoE‐Remission and controls. Our results suggest that esophageal epithelial cells may have specific immune effector functions in EoE that control the type and amplitude of inflammation.
Ligand-binding domains of nuclear receptors facilitate tight control of split CRISPR activity
Authors: Nguyen Duy P. , Miyaoka Yuichiro , Gilbert Luke A. , Mayerl Steven J. , Lee Brian H. , Weissman Jonathan S. , Conklin Bruce R. , Wells James A.
Published: July 2016

Cas9-based RNA-guided nuclease (RGN) has emerged to be a versatile method for genome editing due to the ease of construction of RGN reagents to target specific genomic sequences. The ability to control the activity of Cas9 with a high temporal resolution will facilitate tight regulation of genome editing processes for studying the dynamics of transcriptional regulation or epigenetic modifications in complex biological systems. Here we show that fusing ligand-binding domains of nuclear receptors to split Cas9 protein fragments can provide chemical control over split Cas9 activity. The method has allowed us to control Cas9 activity in a tunable manner with no significant background, which has been challenging for other inducible Cas9 constructs. We anticipate that our design will provide opportunities through the use of different ligand-binding domains to enable multiplexed genome regulation of endogenous genes in distinct loci through simultaneous chemical regulation of orthogonal Cas9 variants.
Gas–solid interfacial modification of oxygen activity in layered oxide cathodes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Qiu Bao , Zhang Minghao , Wu Lijun , Wang Jun , Xia Yonggao , Qian Danna , Liu Haodong , Hy Sunny , Chen Yan , An Ke , Zhu Yimei , Liu Zhaoping , Meng Ying Shirley
Published: July 2016

Lattice oxygen can play an intriguing role in electrochemical processes, not only maintaining structural stability, but also influencing electron and ion transport properties in high-capacity oxide cathode materials for Li-ion batteries. Here, we report the design of a gas–solid interface reaction to achieve delicate control of oxygen activity through uniformly creating oxygen vacancies without affecting structural integrity of Li-rich layered oxides. Theoretical calculations and experimental characterizations demonstrate that oxygen vacancies provide a favourable ionic diffusion environment in the bulk and significantly suppress gas release from the surface. The target material is achievable in delivering a discharge capacity as high as 301 mAh g−1 with initial Coulombic efficiency of 93.2%. After 100 cycles, a reversible capacity of 300 mAh g−1 still remains without any obvious decay in voltage. This study sheds light on the comprehensive design and control of oxygen activity in transition-metal-oxide systems for next-generation Li-ion batteries.
The wheat R2R3-MYB transcription factor TaRIM1 participates in resistance response against the pathogen Rhizoctonia cerealis infection through regulating defense genes
Authors: Shan Tianlei , Rong Wei , Xu Huijun , Du Lipu , Liu Xin , Zhang Zengyan
Published: July 2016

The necrotrophic fungus Rhizoctonia cerealis is a major pathogen of sharp eyespot that is a devastating disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum). Little is known about roles of MYB genes in wheat defense response to R. cerealis. In this study, TaRIM1, a R. cerealis-induced wheat MYB gene, was identified by transcriptome analysis, then cloned from resistant wheat CI12633, and its function and preliminary mechanism were studied. Sequence analysis showed that TaRIM1 encodes a R2R3-MYB transcription factor with transcription-activation activity. The molecular-biological assays revealed that the TaRIM1 protein localizes to nuclear and can bind to five MYB-binding site cis-elements. Functional dissection results showed that following R. cerealis inoculation, TaRIM1 silencing impaired the resistance of wheat CI12633, whereas TaRIM1 overexpression significantly increased resistance of transgenic wheat compared with susceptible recipient. TaRIM1 positively regulated the expression of five defense genes (Defensin, PR10, PR17c, nsLTP1, and chitinase1) possibly through binding to MYB-binding sites in their promoters. These results suggest that the R2R3-MYB transcription factor TaRIM1 positively regulates resistance response to R. cerealis infection through modulating the expression of a range of defense genes, and that TaRIM1 is a candidate gene to improve sharp eyespot resistance in wheat.
Robust Multiple-Range Coherent Quantum State Transfer
Authors: Chen Bing , Peng Yan-Dong , Li Yong , Qian Xiao-Feng
Published: July 2016

We propose a multiple-range quantum communication channel to realize coherent two-way quantum state transport with high fidelity. In our scheme, an information carrier (a qubit) and its remote partner are both adiabatically coupled to the same data bus, i.e., an N-site tight-binding chain that has a single defect at the center. At the weak interaction regime, our system is effectively equivalent to a three level system of which a coherent superposition of the two carrier states constitutes a dark state. The adiabatic coupling allows a well controllable information exchange timing via the dark state between the two carriers. Numerical results show that our scheme is robust and efficient under practically inevitable perturbative defects of the data bus as well as environmental dephasing noise.
Disrupting VEGF-A paracrine and autocrine loops by targeting SHP-1 suppresses triple negative breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Su Jung-Chen , Mar Ai-Chung , Wu Szu-Hsien , Tai Wei-Tien , Chu Pei-Yi , Wu Chia-Yun , Tseng Ling-Ming , Lee Te-Chang , Chen Kuen-Feng , Liu Chun-Yu , Chiu Hao-Chieh , Shiau Chung-Wai
Published: July 2016

Patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) had an increased likelihood of distant recurrence and death, as compared with those with non-TNBC subtype. Regorafenib is a multi-receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitor targeting oncogenesis and has been approved for metastatic colorectal cancer and advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Recent studies suggest regorafenib acts as a SHP-1 phosphatase agonist. Here, we investigated the potential of regorafenib to suppress metastasis of TNBC cells through targeting SHP-1/p-STAT3/VEGF-A axis. We found a significant correlation between cancer cell migration and SHP-1/p-STAT3/VEGF-A expression in human TNBC cells. Clinically, high VEGF-A expression is associated with worse disease-free and distant metastasis-free survival. Regorafenib induced significant anti-migratory effects, in association with downregulation of p-STAT3 and VEGF-A. To exclude the role of RTK inhibition in regorafenib-induced anti-metastasis, we synthesized a regorafenib derivative, SC-78, that had minimal effect on VEGFR2 and PDGFR kinase inhibition, while having more potent effects on SHP-1 activation. SC-78 demonstrated superior in vitro and in vivo anti-migration to regorafenib. Furthermore, VEGF-A dependent autocrine/paracrine loops were disrupted by regorafenib and SC-78. This study implies that SHP-1/p-STAT3/VEGF-A axis is a potential therapeutic target for metastatic TNBC and the more potent SC-78 may be a promising lead for suppressing metastasis of TNBC.
Catalysts of DNA Strand Cleavage at Apurinic/Apyrimidinic Sites
Authors: Minko Irina G. , Jacobs Aaron C. , de Leon Arnie R. , Gruppi Francesca , Donley Nathan , Harris Thomas M. , Rizzo Carmelo J. , McCullough Amanda K. , Lloyd R. Stephen
Published: July 2016

Apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites are constantly formed in cellular DNA due to instability of the glycosidic bond, particularly at purines and various oxidized, alkylated, or otherwise damaged nucleobases. AP sites are also generated by DNA glycosylases that initiate DNA base excision repair. These lesions represent a significant block to DNA replication and are extremely mutagenic. Some DNA glycosylases possess AP lyase activities that nick the DNA strand at the deoxyribose moiety via a β- or β,δ-elimination reaction. Various amines can incise AP sites via a similar mechanism, but this non-enzymatic cleavage typically requires high reagent concentrations. Herein, we describe a new class of small molecules that function at low micromolar concentrations as both β- and β,δ-elimination catalysts at AP sites. Structure-activity relationships have established several characteristics that appear to be necessary for the formation of an iminium ion intermediate that self-catalyzes the elimination at the deoxyribose ring.
Inhibition of HIV-1 reactivation by a telomerase-derived peptide in a HSP90-dependent manner
Authors: Kim Hong , Choi Myung-Soo , Inn Kyung-Soo , Kim Bum-Joon
Published: July 2016

A peptide vaccine designed to induce T-cell immunity to telomerase, GV1001, has been shown to modulate cellular signaling pathways and confer a direct anti-cancer effect through the interaction with heat shock protein (HSP) 90 and 70. Here, we have found that GV1001 can modulate transactivation protein-mediated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 transactivation in an HSP90-dependent manner. GV1001 treatment resulted in significant suppression of HIV-1 replication and rescue of infected cells from death by HIV-1. Transactivation of HIV-long terminal repeat (LTR) was inhibited by GV1001, indicating that GV1001 suppressed the transcription from proviral HIV DNA. The anti-HIV-1 activity of GV1001 was completely abrogated by an HSP90-neutralizing antibody, indicating that the antiviral activity depends on HSP90. Further mechanistic studies revealed that GV1001 suppresses basal NF-κB activation, which is required for HIV-1 LTR transactivation in an HSP90-dependent manner. Inhibition of LTR transactivation by GV1001 suggests its potential to suppress HIV-1 reactivation from latency. Indeed, PMA-mediated reactivation of HIV-1 from latent infected cells was suppressed by GV1001. The results suggest the potential therapeutic use of GV1001, a peptide proven to be safe for human use, as an anti-HIV-1 agent to suppress the reactivation from latently infected cells.
Potential role of nuclear PD-L1 expression in cell-surface vimentin positive circulating tumor cells as a prognostic marker in cancer patients
Authors: Satelli Arun , Batth Izhar Singh , Brownlee Zachary , Rojas Christina , Meng Qing H. , Kopetz Scott , Li Shulin
Published: July 2016

Although circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have potential as diagnostic biomarkers for cancer, determining their prognostic role in cancer patients undergoing treatment is a challenge. We evaluated the prognostic value of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in CTCs in colorectal and prostate cancer patients undergoing treatment. Peripheral blood samples were collected from 62 metastatic colorectal cancer patients and 30 metastatic prostate cancer patients. CTCs were isolated from the samples using magnetic separation with the cell-surface vimentin(CSV)-specific 84-1 monoclonal antibody that detects epithelial-mesenchymal transitioned (EMT) CTCs. CTCs were enumerated and analyzed for PD-L1 expression using confocal microscopy. PD-L1 expression was detectable in CTCs and was localized in the membrane and/or cytoplasm and nucleus. CTC detection alone was not associated with poor progression-free or overall survival in colorectal cancer or prostate cancer patients, but nuclear PD-L1 (nPD-L1) expression in these patients was significantly associated with short survival durations. These results demonstrated that nPD-L1 has potential as a clinically relevant prognostic biomarker for colorectal and prostate cancer. Our data thus suggested that use of CTC-based models of cancer for risk assessment can improve the standard cancer staging criteria and supported the incorporation of nPD-L1 expression detection in CTCs detection in such models.
Super-Resonant Intracavity Coherent Absorption
Authors: Malara P. , Campanella C. E. , Giorgini A. , Avino S. , De Natale P. , Gagliardi G.
Published: July 2016

The capability of optical resonators to extend the effective radiation-matter interaction length originates from a multipass effect, hence is intrinsically limited by the resonator’s quality factor. Here, we show that this constraint can be overcome by combining the concepts of resonant interaction and coherent perfect absorption (CPA). We demonstrate and investigate super-resonant coherent absorption in a coupled Fabry-Perot (FP)/ring cavity structure. At the FP resonant wavelengths, the described phenomenon gives rise to split modes with a nearly-transparent peak and a peak whose transmission is exceptionally sensitive to the intracavity loss. For small losses, the effective interaction pathlength of these modes is proportional respectively to the ratio and the product of the individual finesse coefficients of the two resonators. The results presented extend the conventional definition of resonant absorption and point to a way of circumventing the technological limitations of ultrahigh-quality resonators in spectroscopy and optical sensing schemes.
Shapes of minimal-energy DNA ropes condensed in confinement
Authors: Šiber Antonio
Published: July 2016

Shapes of a single, long DNA molecule condensed in a confinement of a virus capsid are described as conformations optimizing a model free energy functional accounting for the interplay between the bending energy of the DNA and the surface energy of the DNA bundled in a “rope”. The rope is formed by bundled DNA brought together by (self-)attractive interactions. The conformations predicted by the model depend on the shape of the confinement, the total amount of the packed DNA but also on the relative contributions of the bending and surface energies. Some of the conformations found were not predicted previously, but many previously proposed DNA conformations, some of which are seemingly contradictory, were found as the solutions of the model. The results show that there are many possible packing conformations of the DNA and that the one which realizes in a particular virus depends on the capsid geometry and the nature of condensing agents.