bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MIDAS: a practical Bayesian design for platform trials with molecularly targeted agents
Authors: Yuan Ying , Guo Beibei , Munsell Mark , Lu Karen , Jazaeri Amir
Published: April 2016

Recent success of immunotherapy and other targeted therapies in cancer treatment has led to an unprecedented surge in the number of novel therapeutic agents that need to be evaluated in clinical trials. Traditional phase II clinical trial designs were developed for evaluating one candidate treatment at a time and thus not efficient for this task. We propose a Bayesian phase II platform design, the multi‐candidate iterative design with adaptive selection (MIDAS), which allows investigators to continuously screen a large number of candidate agents in an efficient and seamless fashion. MIDAS consists of one control arm, which contains a standard therapy as the control, and several experimental arms, which contain the experimental agents. Patients are adaptively randomized to the control and experimental agents based on their estimated efficacy. During the trial, we adaptively drop inefficacious or overly toxic agents and ‘graduate’ the promising agents from the trial to the next stage of development. Whenever an experimental agent graduates or is dropped, the corresponding arm opens immediately for testing the next available new agent. Simulation studies show that MIDAS substantially outperforms the conventional approach. The proposed design yields a significantly higher probability for identifying the promising agents and dropping the futile agents. In addition, MIDAS requires only one master protocol, which streamlines trial conduct and substantially decreases the overhead burden. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implementing a screening program for acromegaly in Latin America: necessity versus feasibility
Authors: Danilowicz Karina , Day Patricia Fainstein , Manavela Marcos P. , Herrera Carlos Javier , Deheza María Laura , Isaac Gabriel , Juri Ariel , Katz Debora , Bruno Oscar D.
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Acromegaly is a rare disease with a large burden due its associated comorbidities and the life-long management required. Since the occurrence and severity of associated complications are related to length of exposure to the excess growth hormone seen in acromegaly, early diagnosis is imperative. The delay in diagnosis, however, can be long, and may be the result of a lack of disease awareness and screening programs. Since acromegaly is an uncommon disease, finding ways to increase recognition and diagnosis that would permit early detection in a logical and cost-effective manner could be a challenge.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective literature review for information relating to the screening and diagnosis of acromegaly using PubMed. The aim was to assess whether an acromegaly-screening program in Latin America (and elsewhere) would be both of use and be feasible.

Findings and conclusions

An earlier diagnosis allows earlier initiation of treatment, such as surgery and/or drugs, which leads to more successful disease management (biochemical control) and better outcomes. Since the delay in diagnosis can be long, we believe that clear opportunities exist for earlier (and increased) detection of acromegaly. This can be achieved by increasing disease awareness for earlier recognition of symptoms and by using targeted screening (rather than mass screening) programs.
The Sexual Attribution of the La Quina 5 Neandertal
Authors: Trinkaus E.
Published: April 2016

Morphological and paleobiological assessments of the Neandertals are improved by appropriate sexual attributions of fossil remains. The La Quina 5 partial Neandertal skeleton has usually been considered as female, despite the absence of its pelvis and recognition of its large and robust facial skeleton. Its sexual affinities were therefore reassessed relative to pelvically sexed and unsexable Neandertal remains, using its neurocranial, facial, and appendicular dimensions. Its endocranial capacity and parietal thickness, although small, appear undiagnostic with regard to sex. Its radial length, femoral diaphyseal size, mandibular corpus dimensions, and supraorbital torus thickness are intermediate between those of males and females. Its mandible length and mastoid process projection and its humeral length, articular size, and diaphyseal hypertrophy align it with male Neandertals. On the basis of these comparisons, La Quina 5 appears to be either male or indeterminate with regard to its sex, the latter conclusion being the more cautious one. It is unlikely to have been a female.
Does broodstock nutritional history affect the response of progeny to different first-feeding diets? A whole-body transcriptomic study of rainbow trout alevins
Authors: Lazzarotto Viviana , Corraze Geneviève , Larroquet Laurence , Mazurais David , Médale Françoise
Published: April 2016

The whole-body transcriptome of trout alevins was characterised to investigate the effects of long-term feeding of rainbow trout broodstock females a diet free of fishmeal and fish oil on the metabolic capacities of progeny. Effects were studied before first feeding and after 3 weeks of feeding diets containing different proportions of marine and plant ingredients. Feeding alevins plant-based diets resulted in lower fish body weight, irrespective of maternal nutritional history. No differences in whole-body lipids were found between treatments, and the tissue fatty acid profile strongly reflected that of the respective broodstock or first-feeding diets. We showed that the maternal diet history did not significantly affect expressions of any genes before the first feeding. Interestingly, we found an effect of maternal nutritional history on gene expression in alevins after 3 weeks of feeding. The major differences in the transcriptome of alevins from plant-based diet-fed females compared with those from commercial-fed females were as follows: (i) down-regulation of genes involved in muscle growth/contraction and (ii) up-regulation of genes involved in carbohydrate and energy metabolism related to the delay in growth/development observed with plant-based diets. Our findings also showed an effect of the first-feeding diets, irrespective of maternal nutritional history. Specifically, the introduction of plant ingredients resulted in the up-regulation of genes involved in amino acid/protein and cholesterol metabolism and in differences in the expressions of genes related to carbohydrate metabolism. Information gained through this study opens up avenues for further reduction of marine ingredients in trout diets, including the whole rearing cycle.
Narrating the national border: Cambodian state rhetoric vs popular discourse on the Preah Vihear conflict
Authors: Ngoun Kimly
Published: April 2016

Existing studies of the Thai–Cambodian conflict over the Khmer temple of Preah Vihear tend to focus on the historical and legal dimensions of the contested claims and on Thailand's role. This article examines the conflict from within Cambodia, through the rhetoric of the Cambodian state elites and the views of residents of Preah Vihear province. The state has endeavoured to create and propogate a view that development projects in this province are an expression of Khmer pride as well as important for nation-building and border defence. Residents of the border region, however, view such nationalist discourse through their everyday experiences, giving local meaning to terms such as development, nation and heritage.
The danger of “new norms” and the continuing relevance of IHL in the post-9/11 era
Authors: Lellio Anna Di , Castano Emanuele
Published: April 2016

In the post-9/11 era, the label “asymmetric wars” has often been used to question the relevance of certain aspects of international humanitarian law (IHL); to push for redefining the combatant/civilian distinction; and to try to reverse accepted norms such as the bans on torture and assassination. In this piece, we focused on legal and policy discussions in the United States and Israel because they better illustrate the dynamics of State-led “norm entrepreneurship”, or the attempt to propose opposing or modified norms as a revision of IHL. We argue that although these developments are to be taken seriously, they have not weakened the normative power of IHL or made it passé. On the contrary, they have made it more relevant than ever. IHL is not just a complex (and increasingly sophisticated) branch of law detached from reality. Rather, it is the embodiment of widely shared principles of morality and ethics, and stands as a normative “guardian” against processes of moral disengagement that make torture and the acceptance of civilian deaths more palatable.
Challenges and Opportunities in Earth-Human Systems Research
Authors: Asrar Ghassem , Moss Richard , Jacobs Katharine
Published: April 2016

Opportunities for Integration of Remote Sensing, Integrated Assessment, and Adaptation; Aspen, Colorado, 11–16 October 2015
Impacts Might Have Made Ancient Mars Briefly Hospitable to Life
Authors: Hall Shannon
Published: April 2016

A bombardment of the Red Planet 4 billion years ago could have created hot springs that allowed life to flourish.
B‐cell signaling in persistent polyclonal B lymphocytosis (PPBL)
Authors: Voelxen Nadine , Wehr Claudia , Gutenberger Sylvia , Keller Baerbel , Erlacher Miriam , Dominguez‐Conde Cecilia , Bertele Daniela , Emmerich Florian , Pantic Milena , Jennings Stefanie , Rakhmanov Mirzokhid , Foerster Christian , Martens Uwe M , Platzbecker Uwe , Peter Hans‐Hartmut , Fisch Paul , Boztug Kaan , Eibel Hermann , Salzer Ulrich , Warnatz Klaus
Published: April 2016

Persistent polyclonal B lymphocytosis (PPBL) is a benign hematological disorder characterized by a selective expansion of circulating polyclonal marginal zone (MZ)‐like B cells. Previous reports demonstrated that cases of PPBL showed poor activation, proliferation and survival of B cells in vitro, yet the underlying defect remains unknown. Here we report for the first time an attenuated activation of the canonical NF‐κB (nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B cells) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase pathway after CD40 stimulation. This defect was selective, as alternative NF‐κB signaling after CD40 stimulation and both B‐cell receptor‐ and Toll‐like receptor 9‐mediated activation remained unaffected. Reduced canonical NF‐κB activation resulted in decreased IκBα and CD40 expression in resting cells. In PPBL patients, expression of Bcl‐xL in MZ‐like B cells did not increase upon activation, consistent with the high apoptosis rates of PPBL‐derived B cells that were observed in vitro. The B‐cell phenotype of mice with selective knockouts of early components of the CD40 signaling pathway resembles PPBL, but sequencing corresponding genes in sorted MZ‐like B cells of PPBL patients did not reveal relevant genetic alterations. Nevertheless, the frequently observed mutations in early signaling components of the NF‐κB pathway in MZ lymphomas underline the relevance of our findings for the pathogenesis of PPBL.
Diverse human extracellular RNAs are widely detected in human plasma
Authors: Freedman Jane E. , Gerstein Mark , Mick Eric , Rozowsky Joel , Levy Daniel , Kitchen Robert , Das Saumya , Shah Ravi , Danielson Kirsty , Beaulieu Lea , Navarro Fabio C. P. , Wang Yaoyu , Galeev Timur R. , Holman Alex , Kwong Raymond Y. , Murthy Venkatesh , Tanriverdi Selim E. , Koupenova Milka , Mikhalev Ekaterina , Tanriverdi Kahraman
Published: April 2016

There is growing appreciation for the importance of non-protein-coding genes in development and disease. Although much is known about microRNAs, limitations in bioinformatic analyses of RNA sequencing have precluded broad assessment of other forms of small-RNAs in humans. By analysing sequencing data from plasma-derived RNA from 40 individuals, here we identified over a thousand human extracellular RNAs including microRNAs, piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA), and small nucleolar RNAs. Using a targeted quantitative PCR with reverse transcription approach in an additional 2,763 individuals, we characterized almost 500 of the most abundant extracellular transcripts including microRNAs, piRNAs and small nucleolar RNAs. The presence in plasma of many non-microRNA small-RNAs was confirmed in an independent cohort. We present comprehensive data to demonstrate the broad and consistent detection of diverse classes of circulating non-cellular small-RNAs from a large population.
Encapsulation of zinc-rifampicin complex into transferrin-conjugated silver quantum-dots improves its antimycobacterial activity and stability and facilitates drug delivery into macrophages
Authors: Pati Rashmirekha , Sahu Rojalin , Panda Jagannath , Sonawane Avinash
Published: April 2016

In order to improve the chemotherapy of tuberculosis, there is an urgent need to enhance the efficacy of existing agents and also to develop more efficient drug delivery systems. Here, we synthesized a novel anti-TB drug complex consisting of zinc and rifampicin (Zn-RIF) and encapsulated it into transferrin-conjugated silver quantum-dots (Zn-RIF-Tf-QD) to improve delivery in macrophages. Successful synthesis of Zn-RIF and Zn-RIF-Tf-QD was confirmed by UV/Vis-spectroscopy, TEM, FTIR, photoluminescence, XRD, XPS and NMR. The sizes of silver QDs and transferrin-conjugated QDs were found to be in the range of 5–20 nm. Activity assays showed that Zn-RIF-Tf-QD exhibited 10-fold higher antibacterial activity against Mycobacterium smegmatis and Mycobacterium bovis-BCG as compared to Zn-RIF, RIF and Zn. Immunofluorescence studies showed that Zn-RIF-Tf-QD-conjugates were actively endocytosed by macrophages and dendritic cells, but not by lung epithelial cells. Treatment with Zn-RIF-Tf-QD efficiently killed mycobacteria residing inside macrophages without exhibiting cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. Moreover, the conjugates remained stable for upto 48 h, were taken up into the late endosomal compartment of macrophages and released the drug in a sustainable manner. Our data demonstrate that Zn-RIF-Tf-QDs have a great potential as anti-TB drugs. In addition, transferrin-conjugated QDs may constitute an effective drug delivery system for tuberculosis therapy.
Unique behavior of Trypanosoma cruzi mevalonate kinase: A conserved glycosomal enzyme involved in host cell invasion and signaling
Authors: Ferreira Éden Ramalho , Horjales Eduardo , Bonfim-Melo Alexis , Cortez Cristian , da Silva Claudio Vieira , De Groote Michel , Sobreira Tiago José Paschoal , Cruz Mário Costa , Lima Fabio Mitsuo , Cordero Esteban Mauricio , Yoshida Nobuko , da Silveira José Franco , Mortara Renato Arruda , Bahia Diana
Published: April 2016

Mevalonate kinase (MVK) is an essential enzyme acting in early steps of sterol isoprenoids biosynthesis, such as cholesterol in humans or ergosterol in trypanosomatids. MVK is conserved from bacteria to mammals and localizes to glycosomes in trypanosomatids. During the course of T. cruzi MVK characterization, we found that, in addition to glycosomes, this enzyme may be secreted and modulate cell invasion. To evaluate the role of TcMVK in parasite-host cell interactions, TcMVK recombinant protein was produced and anti-TcMVK antibodies were raised in mice. TcMVK protein was detected in the supernatant of cultures of metacyclic trypomastigotes (MTs) and extracellular amastigotes (EAs) by Western blot analysis, confirming its secretion into extracellular medium. Recombinant TcMVK bound in a non-saturable dose-dependent manner to HeLa cells and positively modulated internalization of T. cruzi EAs but inhibited invasion by MTs. In HeLa cells, TcMVK induced phosphorylation of MAPK pathway components and proteins related to actin cytoskeleton modifications. We hypothesized that TcMVK is a bifunctional enzyme that in addition to playing a classical role in isoprenoid synthesis in glycosomes, it is secreted and may modulate host cell signaling required for T. cruzi invasion.
A web-based resource for designing therapeutics against Ebola Virus
Authors: Dhanda Sandeep Kumar , Chaudhary Kumardeep , Gupta Sudheer , Brahmachari Samir Kumar , Raghava Gajendra P. S.
Published: April 2016

In this study, we describe a web-based resource, developed for assisting the scientific community in designing an effective therapeutics against the Ebola virus. Firstly, we predicted and identified experimentally validated epitopes in each of the antigens/proteins of the five known ebolaviruses. Secondly, we generated all the possible overlapping 9mer peptides from the proteins of ebolaviruses. Thirdly, conserved peptides across all the five ebolaviruses (four human pathogenic species) with no identical sequence in the human proteome, based on 1000 Genomes project, were identified. Finally, we identified peptide or epitope-based vaccine candidates that could activate both the B- and T-cell arms of the immune system. In addition, we also identified efficacious siRNAs against the mRNA transcriptome (absent in human transcriptome) of all the five ebolaviruses. It was observed that three species can potentially be targeted by a single siRNA (19mer) and 75 siRNAs can potentially target at least two species. A web server, EbolaVCR, has been developed that incorporates all the above information and useful computational tools (http://crdd.osdd.net/oscadd/ebola/).
Unconventional magnetisation texture in graphene/cobalt hybrids
Authors: Vu A. D. , Coraux J. , Chen G. , N’Diaye A. T. , Schmid A. K. , Rougemaille N.
Published: April 2016

Magnetic domain structure and spin-dependent reflectivity measurements on cobalt thin films intercalated at the graphene/Ir(111) interface are investigated using spin-polarised low-energy electron microscopy. We find that graphene-covered cobalt films have surprising magnetic properties. Vectorial imaging of magnetic domains reveals an unusually gradual thickness-dependent spin reorientation transition, in which magnetisation rotates from out-of-the-film plane to the in-plane direction by less than 10° per cobalt monolayer. During this transition, cobalt films have a meandering spin texture, characterised by a complex, three-dimensional, wavy magnetisation pattern. In addition, spectroscopy measurements suggest that the electronic band structure of the unoccupied states is essentially spin-independent already a few electron-Volts above the vacuum level. These properties strikingly differ from those of pristine cobalt films and could open new prospects in surface magnetism.
Assessment of Fat distribution and Bone quality with Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) in Healthy Chinese Men
Authors: Lv Shan , Zhang Aisen , Di Wenjuan , Sheng Yunlu , Cheng Peng , Qi Hanmei , Liu Juan , Yu Jing , Ding Guoxian , Cai Jinmei , Lai Bin
Published: April 2016

Whether fat is beneficial or detrimental to bones is still controversial, which may be due to inequivalence of the fat mass. Our objective is to define the effect of body fat and its distribution on bone quality in healthy Chinese men. A total of 228 men, aged from 38 to 89 years, were recruited. BMD, trabecular bone score (TBS), and body fat distribution were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Subcutaneous and visceral fat were assessed by MRI. In the Pearson correlation analysis, lumbar spine BMD exhibited positive associations with total and all regional fat depots, regardless of the fat distribution. However, the correlation disappeared with adjusted covariables of age, BMI, HDL-C, and HbA1c%. TBS was negatively correlated with fat mass. In multiple linear regression models, android fat (and not gynoid, trunk, or limbs fat) showed significant inverse association with TBS (β = −0.611, P < 0.001). Furthermore, visceral fat was described as a pathogenic fat harmful to TBS, even after adjusting for age and BMI (β = −0.280, P = 0.017). Our findings suggested that body fat mass, especially android fat and visceral fat, may have negative effects on bone microstructure; whereas body fat mass contributes to BMD through mechanical loading.
The utility of DNA metabarcoding for studying the response of arthropod diversity and composition to land-use change in the tropics
Authors: Beng Kingsly Chuo , Tomlinson Kyle W. , Shen Xian Hui , Surget-Groba Yann , Hughes Alice C. , Corlett Richard T. , Slik J. W. Ferry
Published: April 2016

Metabarcoding potentially offers a rapid and cheap method of monitoring biodiversity, but real-world applications are few. We investigated its utility in studying patterns of litter arthropod diversity and composition in the tropics. We collected litter arthropods from 35 matched forest-plantation sites across Xishuangbanna, southwestern China. A new primer combination and the MiSeq platform were used to amplify and sequence a wide variety of litter arthropods using simulated and real-world communities. Quality filtered reads were clustered into 3,624 MOTUs at ≥97% similarity and the taxonomy of each MOTU was predicted. We compared diversity and compositional differences between forests and plantations (rubber and tea) for all MOTUs and for eight arthropod groups. We obtained ~100% detection rate after in silico sequencing six mock communities with known arthropod composition. Ordination showed that rubber, tea and forest communities formed distinct clusters. α-diversity declined significantly between forests and adjacent plantations for more arthropod groups in rubber than tea, and diversity of order Orthoptera increased significantly in tea. Turnover was higher in forests than plantations, but patterns differed among groups. Metabarcoding is useful for quantifying diversity patterns of arthropods under different land-uses and the MiSeq platform is effective for arthropod metabarcoding in the tropics.
Expression of GhNAC2 from G. herbaceum, improves root growth and imparts tolerance to drought in transgenic cotton and Arabidopsis
Authors: Gunapati Samatha , Naresh Ram , Ranjan Sanjay , Nigam Deepti , Hans Aradhana , Verma Praveen C. , Gadre Rekha , Pathre Uday V. , Sane Aniruddha P. , Sane Vidhu A.
Published: April 2016

NAC proteins are plant-specific transcription factors that play essential roles in regulating development and responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. We show that over-expression of the cotton GhNAC2 under the CaMV35S promoter increases root growth in both Arabidopsis and cotton under unstressed conditions. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants also show improved root growth in presence of mannitol and NaCl while transgenic cotton expressing GhNAC2 show reduced leaf abscission and wilting upon water stress compared to control plants. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants also have larger leaves, higher seed number and size under well watered conditions, reduced transpiration and higher relative leaf water content. Micro-array analysis of transgenic plants over-expressing GhNAC2 reveals activation of the ABA/JA pathways and a suppression of the ethylene pathway at several levels to reduce expression of ERF6/ERF1/WRKY33/ MPK3/MKK9/ACS6 and their targets. This probably suppresses the ethylene-mediated inhibition of organ expansion, leading to larger leaves, better root growth and higher yields under unstressed conditions. Suppression of the ethylene pathway and activation of the ABA/JA pathways also primes the plant for improved stress tolerance by reduction in transpiration, greater stomatal control and suppression of growth retarding factors.
Alteration of the serum microbiome composition in cirrhotic patients with ascites
Authors: Santiago Alba , Pozuelo Marta , Poca Maria , Gely Cristina , Nieto Juan Camilo , Torras Xavier , Román Eva , Campos David , Sarrabayrouse Guillaume , Vidal Silvia , Alvarado-Tapias Edilmar , Guarner Francisco , Soriano German , Manichanh Chaysavanh , Guarner Carlos
Published: April 2016

The progression of cirrhosis is associated with alterations in the composition of the gut microbiome. To assess microbial translocation, we compared the serum microbial composition of patients with and without ascites and characterized the ascitic fluid microbiome using 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing data. A complex and specific microbial community was detected in the serum and ascitic fluid of patients with cirrhosis but barely detectable in the serum of healthy controls. The serum microbiome of patients with ascites presented higher levels of lipopolysaccharide binding protein, a marker of microbial translocation, associated with higher diversity and relative abundance of Clostridiales and an unknown genus belonging to the Cyanobacteria phylum compared to patients without ascites. The composition of the fecal microbiome was also more altered in patients with than without ascites, confirming previous studies on fecal microbiome. We propose that alteration of the serum and fecal microbiome composition be considered indicators of cirrhosis progression.
Hypomethylation of ERVs in the sperm of mice haploinsufficient for the histone methyltransferase Setdb1 correlates with a paternal effect on phenotype
Authors: Daxinger Lucia , Oey Harald , Isbel Luke , Whitelaw Nadia C. , Youngson Neil A. , Spurling Alex , Vonk Kelly K. D. , Whitelaw Emma
Published: April 2016

The number of reports of paternal epigenetic influences on the phenotype of offspring in rodents is increasing but the molecular events involved remain unclear. Here, we show that haploinsufficiency for the histone 3 lysine 9 methyltransferase Setdb1 in the sire can influence the coat colour phenotype of wild type offspring. This effect occurs when the allele that directly drives coat colour is inherited from the dam, inferring that the effect involves an “in trans” step. The implication of this finding is that epigenetic state of the sperm can alter the expression of genes inherited on the maternally derived chromosomes. Whole genome bisulphite sequencing revealed that Setdb1 mutant mice show DNA hypomethylation at specific classes of transposable elements in the sperm. Our results identify Setdb1 as a paternal effect gene in the mouse and suggest that epigenetic inheritance may be more likely in individuals with altered levels of epigenetic modifiers.
Local adaptation to temperature and precipitation in naturally fragmented populations of Cephalotaxus oliveri, an endangered conifer endemic to China
Authors: Wang Ting , Wang Zhen , Xia Fan , Su Yingjuan
Published: April 2016

Cephalotaxus oliveriis an endangered tertiary relict conifer endemic to China. The species survives in a wide range from west to east with heterogeneous climatic conditions. Precipitation and temperature are main restrictive factors for distribution ofC. oliveri. In order to comprehend the mechanism of adaptive evolution to climate variation, we employed ISSR markers to detect adaptive evolution loci, to identify the association between variation in temperature and precipitation and adaptive loci, and to investigate the genetic structure for 22C. oliverinatural populations. In total, 14 outlier loci were identified, of which five were associated with temperature and precipitation. Among outlier loci, linkage disequilibrium (LD) was high (42.86%), which also provided strong evidence for selection. In addition,C. oliveripossessed high genetic variation (93.31%) and population differentiation, which may provide raw material to evolution and accelerate local adaptation, respectively. Ecological niche modeling showed that global warming will cause a shift for populations ofC. oliverifrom south to north with a shrinkage of southern areas. Our results contribute to understand the potential response of conifers to climatic changes, and provide new insights for conifer resource management and conservation strategies.
Real-time imaging through strongly scattering media: seeing through turbid media, instantly
Authors: Sudarsanam Sriram , Mathew James , Panigrahi Swapnesh , Fade Julien , Alouini Mehdi , Ramachandran Hema
Published: April 2016

Numerous everyday situations like navigation, medical imaging and rescue operations require viewing through optically inhomogeneous media. This is a challenging task as photons propagate predominantly diffusively (rather than ballistically) due to random multiple scattering off the inhomogenieties. Real-time imaging with ballistic light under continuous-wave illumination is even more challenging due to the extremely weak signal, necessitating voluminous data-processing. Here we report imaging through strongly scattering media in real-time and at rates several times the critical flicker frequency of the eye, so that motion is perceived as continuous. Two factors contributed to the speedup of more than three orders of magnitude over conventional techniques - the use of a simplified algorithm enabling processing of data on the fly and the utilisation of task and data parallelization capabilities of typical desktop computers. The extreme simplicity of the technique and its implementation with present day low-cost technology promises its utility in a variety of devices in maritime, aerospace, rail and road transport, in medical imaging and defence. It is of equal interest to the common man and adventure sportsperson like hikers, divers, mountaineers, who frequently encounter situations requiring realtime imaging through obscuring media. As a specific example, navigation under poor visibility is examined.
A plant 35S CaMV promoter induces long-term expression of luciferase in Atlantic salmon
Authors: Seternes Tore , Tonheim Tom C. , Myhr Anne I. , Dalmo Roy A.
Published: April 2016

The long-term persistence and activity of a naked plasmid DNA (pGL3-35S) containing a luc gene (reporter gene) controlled by a plant 35S CaMV promoter was studied in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) after injection. Atlantic salmon (mean weight 70 grams) were injected intramuscularly with 100 μg of plasmid DNA. Blood, different tissues and organs were sampled at different time points up to day 535 after injection. Southern blot analysis suggested the presence of extra-chromosomally open circular, linear and supercoiled topoforms of pGL3-35S at day 150 after injection. At day 536 open circular and supercoiled topoforms were detected. Luciferase activity was detected at the injection site up to 536 days post-injection of pGL3-35S, where it peaked at day 150 and decreased to approximately 17% of its maximum activity by day 536. Our study demonstrated that a plasmid containing the 35S promoter was able to induce expression of a reporter gene/protein in fish in vivo and that the plasmid DNA persisted for a prolonged time after intramuscular injection.
Model-Based Feasibility Assessment of Membrane Biofilm Reactor to Achieve Simultaneous Ammonium, Dissolved Methane, and Sulfide Removal from Anaerobic Digestion Liquor
Authors: Chen Xueming , Liu Yiwen , Peng Lai , Yuan Zhiguo , Ni Bing-Jie
Published: April 2016

In this study, the membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR) is proposed to achieve simultaneous removal of ammonium, dissolved methane, and sulfide from main-stream and side-stream anaerobic digestion liquors. To avoid dissolved methane stripping, oxygen is introduced through gas-permeable membranes, which also from the substratum for the growth of a biofilm likely comprising ammonium oxidizing bacteria (AOB), anaerobic ammonium oxidation (Anammox) bacteria, denitrifying anaerobic methane oxidation (DAMO) microorganisms, aerobic methane oxidizing bacteria (MOB), and sulfur oxidizing bacteria (SOB). A mathematical model is developed and applied to assess the feasibility of such a system and the associated microbial community structure under different operational conditions. The simulation studies demonstrate the feasibility of achieving high-level (>97.0%), simultaneous removal of ammonium, dissolved methane, and sulfide in the MBfRs from both main-stream and side-stream anaerobic digestion liquors through adjusting the influent surface loading (or hydraulic retention time (HRT)) and the oxygen surface loading. The optimal HRT was found to be inversely proportional to the corresponding oxygen surface loading. Under the optimal operational conditions, AOB, DAMO bacteria, MOB, and SOB dominate the biofilm of the main-stream MBfR, while AOB, Anammox bacteria, DAMO bacteria, and SOB coexist in the side-stream MBfR to remove ammonium, dissolved methane, and sulfide simultaneously.
Mechanism of stress-driven composition evolution during hetero-epitaxy in a ternary AlGaN system
Authors: He Chenguang , Qin Zhixin , Xu Fujun , Zhang Lisheng , Wang Jiaming , Hou Mengjun , Zhang Shan , Wang Xinqiang , Ge Weikun , Shen Bo
Published: April 2016

Two AlGaN samples with different strain were designed to investigate mechanism of stress-driven composition evolution. It is discovered that AlGaN grown on AlN or (AlN/GaN superlattices (SLs))/GaN both consist of two distinct regions with different compositions: transition region and uniform region, which is attributed to the compositional pulling effect. The formation of the transition region is due to the partial stress release caused by the generation of misfit dislocations near the hetero-interface. And the Al composition in the uniform region depends on the magnitude of residual strain. The difference in relaxation degree is 80.5% for the AlGaN epilayers grown on different underlayers, leading to a large Al composition difference of 22%. The evolutionary process of Al composition along [0001] direction was investigated in detail.
Solar pacing of storm surges, coastal flooding and agricultural losses in the Central Mediterranean
Authors: Kaniewski David , Marriner Nick , Morhange Christophe , Faivre Sanja , Otto Thierry , Van Campo Elise
Published: April 2016

Storm surges, leading to catastrophic coastal flooding, are amongst the most feared natural hazards due to the high population densities and economic importance of littoral areas. Using the Central Mediterranean Sea as a model system, we provide strong evidence for enhanced periods of storminess leading to coastal flooding during the last 4500 years. We show that long-term correlations can be drawn between storminess and solar activity, acting on cycles of around 2200-yr and 230-yr. We also find that phases of increased storms and coastal flooding have impacted upon mid- to late Holocene agricultural activity on the Adriatic coast. Based on the general trend observed during the second half of the 20th century, climate models are predicting a weakening of Mediterranean storminess. By contrast, our new data suggest that a decrease in solar activity will increase and intensify the risk of frequent flooding in coastal areas.
Tai Chi for Chronic Pain Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Kong Ling Jun , Lauche Romy , Klose Petra , Bu Jiang Hui , Yang Xiao Cun , Guo Chao Qing , Dobos Gustav , Cheng Ying Wu
Published: April 2016

Several studies reported that Tai Chi showed potential effects for chronic pain, but its role remains controversial. This review assessed the evidence regarding the effects of Tai Chi for chronic pain conditions. 18 randomized controlled trials were included in our review. The aggregated results have indicated that Tai Chi showed positive evidence on immediate relief of chronic pain from osteoarthritis (standardized mean difference [SMD], −0.54; 95% confidence intervals [CI], −0.77 to −0.30; P < 0.05). The valid duration of Tai Chi practice for osteoarthritis may be more than 5 weeks. And there were some beneficial evidences regarding the effects of Tai Chi on immediate relief of chronic pain from low back pain (SMD, −0.81; 95% CI, −1.11 to −0.52; P < 0.05) and osteoporosis (SMD, −0.83; 95% CI, −1.37 to −0.28; P = 0.003). Therefore, clinicians may consider Tai Chi as a viable complementary and alternative medicine for chronic pain conditions.
Pleiotropy between neuroticism and physical and mental health: findings from 108 038 men and women in UK Biobank
Authors: Gale C R , Hagenaars S P , Davies G , Hill W D , Liewald D C M , Cullen B , Penninx B W ,   International Consortium for Blood Pressure GWAS, CHARGE Consortium Aging and Longevity Group, Boomsma D I , Pell J , McIntosh A M , Smith D J , Deary I J , Harris S E
Published: April 2016

People with higher levels of neuroticism have an increased risk of several types of mental disorder. Higher neuroticism has also been associated, less consistently, with increased risk of various physical health outcomes. We hypothesised that these associations may, in part, be due to shared genetic influences. We tested for pleiotropy between neuroticism and 17 mental and physical diseases or health traits using linkage disequilibrium regression and polygenic profile scoring. Genetic correlations were derived between neuroticism scores in 108 038 people in the UK Biobank and health-related measures from 14 large genome-wide association studies (GWASs). Summary information for the 17 GWASs was used to create polygenic risk scores for the health-related measures in the UK Biobank participants. Associations between the health-related polygenic scores and neuroticism were examined using regression, adjusting for age, sex, genotyping batch, genotyping array, assessment centre and population stratification. Genetic correlations were identified between neuroticism and anorexia nervosa (rg=0.17), major depressive disorder (rg=0.66) and schizophrenia (rg=0.21). Polygenic risk for several health-related measures were associated with neuroticism, in a positive direction in the case of bipolar disorder, borderline personality, major depressive disorder, negative affect, neuroticism (Genetics of Personality Consortium), schizophrenia, coronary artery disease, and smoking (βbetween 0.009–0.043), and in a negative direction in the case of body mass index (β=−0.0095). A high level of pleiotropy exists between neuroticism and some measures of mental and physical health, particularly major depressive disorder and schizophrenia.
Novel reduced graphene oxide–glycol chitosan nanohybrid for the assembly of an amperometric enzyme biosensor for phenols
Authors: Boujakhrout Abderrahmane , Jimenez-Falcao Sandra , Martínez-Ruiz Paloma , Sánchez Alfredo , Díez Paula , Pingarrón José M. , Villalonga Reynaldo
Published: April 2016

A sensitive laccase biosensor for phenols based on a novel graphene oxide–glycol chitosan nanohybrid.
Bovine serum albumin modified ZnO to degrade organic dyes under ultraviolet light irradiation
Authors: Wang Qizhao , Ma Qiong , Lian Juhong , Zhong Junbo , Wang Fangping , Li Jianzhang , He Yufeng , Wang Rongmin
Published: April 2016

Bovine serum albumin (BSA), a non-toxic natural polymer material, is used as a template agent to modify the as-prepared photocatalyst ZnO, changing the ZnO nanorod into a nanosheet.
Styrylpyridine salts-based red emissive two-photon turn-on probe for imaging the plasma membrane in living cells and tissues
Authors: Guo Lifang , Zhang Ruoyao , Sun Yuming , Tian Minggang , Zhang Ge , Feng Ruiqing , Li Xuechen , Yu Xiaoqiang , He Xiuquan
Published: April 2016

Based on styrylpyridine salts, a small-molecule far-red emissive turn-on membrane probe with large two-photon absorption cross-section has been developed for tissue-imaging.
A photochromic–acidochromic HCl fluorescent probe. An unexpected chloride-directed recognition
Authors: Jiménez-Sánchez Arturo , Santillan Rosa
Published: April 2016

A fluorescent-chromogenic Schiff base probe displays multiresponsive properties and specific interactions with HCl giving an acidofluorochromic response to light (photochromism) and the nature of the solvent (solvatochromism).
A novel platform self-assembled from squaraine-embedded Zn(ii) complexes for selective monitoring of ATP and its level fluctuation in mitotic cells
Authors: Feng Ruizhi , Xu Yongqian , Zhao Hongwei , Duan Xuemei , Sun Shiguo
Published: April 2016

Using multiple interactions, a simple self-assembly based on a Zn(ii) coordination compound and squaraine (SQ) demonstrated a selective turn-on fluorescence response to ATP in the near infrared (NIR) region.
Improving the analytical performance and versatility of paper spray mass spectrometry via paper microfluidics
Authors: Murray Ian , Walker Glenn , Bereman Michael S.
Published: April 2016

Paper-based microfluidic techniques were explored to increase paper spray mass spectrometry's performance and versatility.
Dispersant-assisted dynamic microwave extraction of triazine herbicides from rice
Authors: Li Dan , Zhang Ziwei , Li Na , Wang Kun , Zang Shuang , Jiang Jia , Yu Aimin , Zhang Hanqi , Li Xuwen
Published: April 2016

An extraction procedure of triazine herbicides from rice.
Measurement of a new parameter representing the gas transport properties of the catalyst layers of polymer electrolyte fuel cells
Authors: Iden Hiroshi , Ohma Atsushi , Tokunaga Tomomi , Yokoyama Kouji , Shinohara Kazuhiko
Published: April 2016

The optimization of the catalyst layers is necessary for obtaining a better fuel cell performance and reducing fuel cell cost.
Synthesis and catalytic application of palladium nanoparticles supported on kaolinite-based nanohybrid materials
Authors: Ngnie Gaelle , Dedzo Gustave K. , Detellier Christian
Published: April 2016

Modified kaolinite-supported palladium nanoparticles displayed excellent catalytic activity for the Heck and the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions.
A new configured lithiated silicon–sulfur battery built on 3D graphene with superior electrochemical performances
Authors: Li Bin , Li Songmei , Xu Jingjing , Yang Shubin
Published: April 2016

A new configured lithiated silicon–sulfur battery was successfully achieved that exhibited high energy density and long cycle performance.
Antioxidant activities of bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) protein hydrolysates and their membrane ultrafiltration fractions
Authors: Arise Abimbola K. , Alashi Adeola M. , Nwachukwu Ifeanyi D. , Ijabadeniyi Oluwatosin A. , Aluko Rotimi E. , Amonsou Eric O.
Published: April 2016

In this study, the bambara protein isolate (BPI) was digested with three proteases (alcalase, trypsin and pepsin), to produce bambara protein hydrolysates (BPHs).
Influence of irradiance on the photochemical reduction of europium(iii)
Authors: Van den Bogaert Bart , Van Meerbeeck Lio , Binnemans Koen , Van Gerven Tom
Published: April 2016

Irradiance is a key parameter for the photochemical reduction of europium(iii) to europium(ii), with a threshold irradiance at 2.7 mW cm−2.
Cooperative catalyst system for the synthesis of oleochemical cyclic carbonates from CO2and renewables
Authors: Tenhumberg Nils , Büttner Hendrik , Schäffner Benjamin , Kruse Daniela , Blumenstein Michael , Werner Thomas
Published: April 2016

Taking Control!The binary catalyst system composed of MoO3and an organic phoshponium salt [Bu4P]X proved very efficient to produce oleochemical cyclic carbonates from renewables.
Chemical modifications of lignin for the preparation of macromers containing cyclic carbonates
Authors: Salanti Anika , Zoia Luca , Orlandi Marco
Published: April 2016

An epoxidized lignin derivative was prepared directly inserting epichlorohydrin on the phenolic functionalities and then the oxirane rings were converted to cyclic carbonate through the coupling reaction with CO2.
Elucidation, functional clustering and structural characterization of βTrCP1 substrates through a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Shafique Shagufta , Younis Saima , Niaz Hafsa , Rashid Sajid
Published: April 2016

Structural knowledge of substrate recognition by SKP1–CUL1–βTrCP1 complex for targeted cancer therapeutic strategy.
Efficient HPLC enantiomer separation using a pillared homochiral metal–organic framework as a novel chiral stationary phase
Authors: Tanaka Koichi , Hotta Naoki , Nagase Shohei , Yoza Kenji
Published: April 2016

HPLC enantioseparation of various racemates using novel pillared homochiral MOF–silica composite as chiral stationary phase has been successfully demonstrated.
Theoretical characterization of the surface composition of ruthenium nanoparticles in equilibrium with syngas
Authors: Cusinato Lucy , Martínez-Prieto Luis M. , Chaudret Bruno , del Rosal Iker , Poteau Romuald
Published: April 2016

Ab initiothermodynamics applied to a 1 nm ruthenium nanoparticle in equilibrium with syngas reveals that only carbon monoxide lies on the surface of this nanocatalyst, thus opening new prospects regarding the initiation of the Fischer–Tropsch reaction.
Amino acid-promoted C–H alkylation with alkylboronic acids using a removable directing group
Authors: Zhang Yu , Jiang Hang , Chen Dushen , Zhang Yanghui
Published: April 2016

Palladium-catalyzed C–H alkylation reaction with alkylboronic acids has been developed using a removable pyridyldiisopropylsilyl directing group.
Synthesis of imides via palladium-catalyzed decarboxylative amidation of α-oxocarboxylic acids with secondary amides
Authors: Xu Ning , Liu Jie , Li Dengke , Wang Lei
Published: April 2016

The palladium-catalyzed decarboxylative amidation of α-oxocarboxylic acids with secondary amides was developed under mild reaction conditions.
Superhydrophobic fibers from cigarette filters for oil spill cleanup
Authors: Ou Junfei , Wan Beibei , Wang Fajun , Xue Mingshan , Wu Huiming , Li Wen
Published: April 2016

Cellulose acetate fibers from cigarette butts were converted into superhydrophobic fibers and used for oil spill cleanup.
Enhance understanding of rhythmic crystallization in confined evaporating polymer solution films: from environment to solution film and then to one period
Authors: Li Yiguo , Wang Zongbao , Gu Qun , Wu Xuedong
Published: April 2016

An enhanced understanding of rhythmic crystallization in an evaporating polymer solution is explored from the environment to the film and to within one period.
An expedient synthesis of oxazolones using a cellulose supported ionic liquid phase catalyst
Authors: Kurane Rajanikant , Khanapure Sharanabasappa , Kale Dolly , Salunkhe Rajashri , Rashinkar Gajanan
Published: April 2016

A novel cellulose supported ionic liquid phase catalyst has been synthesized and effectively employed as a heterogeneous catalyst in the synthesis of oxazolones.
Synthesis and photoluminescence of green-emitting Ce3+,Tb3+ co-doped Al6Si2O13 phosphors with high thermal stability for white LEDs
Authors: Wang Gui-Gen , Wang Xiao-Fei , Dong Li-Wen , Yang Qi
Published: April 2016

In this article, novel green-emitting Ce3+, Tb3+ co-doped Al6Si2O13 phosphors with good thermal stability have been successfully prepared by high-temperature solid-state reaction method.
A new fluorescent sensor for determination of thorium by thin film of 2-(acetyloxy)-N-(5-nitro-2-thiazolyl)-benzamide embedded in sol–gel matrix
Authors: Elabd A. A.
Published: April 2016

A new “turn-off” fluorescent sensor for determination of thorium (Th(iv)) by thin film of 2-(acetyloxy)-N-(5-nitro-2-thiazolyl)-benzamide (L) embedded in sol–gel matrix was introduced.
A highly selective ratiometric fluorescent probe for biothiol and imaging in live cells
Authors: Gao Baozhen , Cui Lixia , Pan Yong , Zhang Guomei , Zhou Ying , Zhang Caihong , Shuang Shaomin , Dong Chuan
Published: April 2016

A new N-butyl-4-amino-1,8-naphthalimide-based colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent probe for the detection of biothiols (cysteine, homocysteine, and glutathione) was designed and synthesized.
Inhibition of fibrillation of human serum albumin through interaction with chitosan-based biocompatible silver nanoparticles
Authors: Sen Shubhatam , Konar Suraj , Das Bodhisatwa , Pathak Amita , Dhara Santanu , Dasgupta Swagata , DasGupta Sunando
Published: April 2016

Electrostatic interaction of chitosan-based silver nanoparticles with human serum albumin leads to inhibition of fibrillogenesis.
Self-assembled porous ceria nanostructures with excellent water solubility and antioxidant properties
Authors: Yu Nan , Hao Jiali , Wang Qing , Huang Kuangfu , Geng Baoyou
Published: April 2016

Porous nanoceria with excellent water-solubility and antioxidation are successfully synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal approach.
Dual-responsive multicompartment nanofibers for controlled release of payloads
Authors: Jiang Shuai , Lv Li-Ping , Landfester Katharina , Crespy Daniel
Published: April 2016

Dual-responsive multicompartment nanofibers are designed by embedding redox-responsive nanocapsules in pH-responsive nanofibers by colloid-electrospinning and for enhanced control over the release of payloads.