bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL-13 mediates collagen deposition via STAT6 and microRNA-135b: a role for epigenetics
Authors: O’Reilly Steven , Ciechomska Marzena , Fullard Nicola , Przyborski Stefan , van Laar Jacob M.
Published: April 2016

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune connective tissue disease in which T cells play a prominent role. We and others have previously demonstrated a role for T cell-derived IL-13 in mediating the induction of collagen in dermal fibroblasts and that blockade with IL-13 antibodies attenuates this increase. In this study we want to probe the signalling that underpins IL-13 mediated matrix deposition. Isolated dermal fibroblasts were incubated with recombinant IL-13 and gene expression by qRT-PCR was performed for collagen1A1 and TGF-β1. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to knock down STAT6 and a small molecule inhibitor was also used to block this pathway. MiR-135b was transfected into fibroblasts plus and minus IL-13 to see if this miR plays a role. miR-135b was measured in systemic sclerosis fibroblasts isolated from patients and also in serum. Results showed that IL-13 increased collagen expression and that this is independent from TGF-β1. This is dependent on STAT6 as targeting this blocked induction. MiR-135b reduces collagen induction in fibroblasts and scleroderma fibroblasts have lower constitutive levels of the miR. We further demonstrate that miR135b is repressed by methylation and may include MeCP2. In conclusion we show that STAT6 and miR-135b regulate IL-13-mediated collagen production by fibroblasts.
Comparative study on catalytic hydrodehalogenation of halogenated aromatic compounds over Pd/C and Raney Ni catalysts
Authors: Ma Xuanxuan , Liu Sujing , Liu Ying , Gu Guodong , Xia Chuanhai
Published: April 2016

Catalytic hydrodehalogenation (HDH) has proved to be an efficient approach to dispose halogenated aromatic compounds (HACs). Liquid-phase HDH of single and mixed halobenzenes/4-halophenols with H2 over 5% Pd/C and Raney Ni catalyst are investigated and compared. For liquid-phase HDH of single HACs, hydrogenolytic scission reactivity of C-X bonds decreases in order of C-Br > C-Cl > C-I > C-F over Pd/C catalyst, and in order of C-I > C-Br > C-Cl > C-F over Raney Ni catalyst. To clarify the reason why hydrogenolytic scission reactivity of C-X bonds over Pd/C and Raney Ni catalysts exhibits different trends, liquid-phase HDH of mixed HACs over Pd/C and Raney Ni catalysts were studied, and catalysts are characterized by SEM, EDX, and XRD techniques. It was found that the high adsorption of iodoarenes on Pd/C catalyst caused the HDH reactivity of iodoarenes to be lower than that of chloroarenes and bromoarenes in the HDH of single HACs. Moreover, the adsorption of in situ produced iodine ion (I−) to catalyst surface would result in the decline of catalytic activity, which might be the main reason why the HDH reactivity of HACs in the presence of NaI is rather low.
Salinity shapes microbial diversity and community structure in surface sediments of the Qinghai-Tibetan Lakes
Authors: Yang Jian , Ma Li’an , Jiang Hongchen , Wu Geng , Dong Hailiang
Published: April 2016

Investigating microbial response to environmental variables is of great importance for understanding of microbial acclimatization and evolution in natural environments. However, little is known about how microbial communities responded to environmental factors (e.g. salinity, geographic distance) in lake surface sediments of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP). In this study, microbial diversity and community structure in the surface sediments of nine lakes on the QTP were investigated by using the Illumina Miseq sequencing technique and the resulting microbial data were statistically analyzed in combination with environmental variables. The results showed total microbial community of the studied lakes was significantly correlated (r = 0.631, P < 0.001) with lake salinity instead of geographic distance. This suggests that lake salinity is more important than geographic distance in shaping the microbial diversity and community structure in the studied samples. In addition, the abundant and rare taxa (OTUs with relative abundance higher than 1% and lower than 0.01% within one sample, respectively) were significantly (P < 0.05) correlated (r = 0.427 and 0.783, respectively) with salinity, suggesting rare taxa might be more sensitive to salinity than their abundant counterparts, thus cautions should be taken in future when evaluating microbial response (abundant vs. rare sub-communities) to environmental conditions.
MYH9 is an Essential Factor for Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Infection
Authors: Gao Jiming , Xiao Shuqi , Xiao Yihong , Wang Xiangpeng , Zhang Chong , Zhao Qin , Nan Yuchen , Huang Baicheng , Liu Hongliang , Liu Ningning , Lv Junhua , Du Taofeng , Sun Yani , Mu Yang , Wang Gang , Syed Shahid Faraz , Zhang Gaiping , Hiscox Julian A. , Goodfellow Ian , Zhou En-Min
Published: April 2016

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) caused by the PRRS virus (PRRSV) is an important swine disease worldwide. PRRSV has a limited tropism for certain cells, which may at least in part be attributed to the expression of the necessary cellular molecules serving as the virus receptors or factors on host cells for virus binding or entry. However, these molecules conferring PRRSV infection have not been fully characterized. Here we show the identification of non-muscle myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9) as an essential factor for PRRSV infection using the anti-idiotypic antibody specific to the PRRSV glycoprotein GP5. MYH9 physically interacts with the PRRSV GP5 protein via its C-terminal domain and confers susceptibility of cells to PRRSV infection. These findings indicate that MYH9 is an essential factor for PRRSV infection and provide new insights into PRRSV-host interactions and viral entry, potentially facilitating development of control strategies for this important swine disease.
Exercise during early, but not late abstinence, attenuates subsequent relapse vulnerability in a rat model
Authors: Beiter R M , Peterson A B , Abel J , Lynch W J
Published: April 2016

Exercise has shown promise as a nonpharmacological intervention for addiction, with evidence suggesting a potential utility for relapse prevention. In humans, exercise as an intervention is typically introduced well after the initiation of abstinence, yet neurobiological data from preclinical studies suggest that it may be more effective if initiated during early abstinence. Here, using rat models, we determined whether the beneficial effects of exercise on relapse vulnerability depends on when exercise is first initiated, during early versus late abstinence. Once rats (n=47) acquired cocaine self-administration, they were given 24-h access to cocaine (1.5 mg/kg per infusion) under a discrete trial procedure (four infusions per hour) for 10 days. The rats then began a 14-day abstinence period in which they had access (2 h per day) to a locked wheel throughout abstinence (sedentary) or an unlocked wheel during early (days 1–7), late (days 8–14) or throughout (days 1–14) abstinence (n=10–14 per group). Cocaine seeking, as assessed under an extinction/cued-induced reinstatement procedure, was examined on day 15 of abstinence. Exercise beginning during early abstinence robustly attenuated subsequent cocaine seeking, and this effect persisted even when exercise ended on the seventh day of abstinence. In contrast, exercise during late abstinence was not effective and these animals displayed high levels of cocaine seeking similar to those observed in sedentary animals. These results indicate that the timing of exercise availability differentially impacts cocaine seeking with results suggesting that exercise during early, but not late, abstinence may provide long-term protection against cocaine relapse.
Fmoc-modified amino acids and short peptides: simple bio-inspired building blocks for the fabrication of functional materials
Authors: Tao Kai , Levin Aviad , Adler-Abramovich Lihi , Gazit Ehud
Published: April 2016

In this review, the studies on the self-assembly of Fmoc-modified biomolecules and their relevant applications in diverse advanced fields are summarized.
Conductive hybrid carbon nanotube (CNT)–polythiophene coatings for innovative auditory neuron-multi-electrode array interfacing
Authors: Ostrovsky S. , Hahnewald S. , Kiran R. , Mistrik P. , Hessler R. , Tscherter A. , Senn P. , Kang J. , Kim J. , Roccio M. , Lellouche J. P.
Published: April 2016

Surface modification of platinum electrodes to improve neuron-electrode interface and electrode conductive properties in cochlear implants.
A lysozyme-stabilized silver nanocluster fluorescent probe for the detection of sulfide ions
Authors: Sun Haiyun , Lu Dongtao , Xian Ming , Dong Chuan , Shuang Shaomin
Published: April 2016

A simple and cost-effective preparation process for Lys-Ag NCs and their application in the sensing of S2−.
Microwave-assisted fabrication of porous hematite photoanodes for efficient solar water splitting
Authors: Hou Yidong , Zheng Chong , Zhu Zezhou , Wang Xinchen
Published: April 2016

Efficient PEC water splitting has been achieved over porous hematite photoanodes with wormlike networks.
A novel apatite, Lu5(SiO4)3N:(Ce,Tb), phosphor material: synthesis, structure and applications for NUV-LEDs
Authors: Guo Qingfeng , Wang Qidi , Jiang Liwei , Liao Libing , Liu Haikun , Mei Lefu
Published: April 2016

Crystal structure and luminescence properties of novel lutetium containing nitride–apatite Lu5(SiO4)3N:Ce3+,Tb3+.
Porous aromatic frameworks (PAFs) as efficient supports for N-heterocyclic carbene catalysts
Authors: Rangel-Rangel Elizabeth , Verde-Sesto Ester , Rasero-Almansa Antonia M. , Iglesias Marta , Sánchez Félix
Published: April 2016

Polymeric aromatic frameworks (PAFs), easily obtained from organic platforms, as excellent supports to yield robust well-defined organometallic heterogenized catalysts.
Activation of CS2 by a “masked” terminal nickel sulfide
Authors: Hartmann Nathaniel J. , Wu Guang , Hayton Trevor. W.
Published: April 2016

Activation of carbon disulfide (CS2) by “masked” terminal nickel sulfide, [K(18-crown-6)][(LtBu)Ni(S)], gives a trithiocarbonate complex. This result confirms the nucleophilicity of the sulfide ligand and expands the scope of reactivity for late metal sulfides.
BaCo4(OH)2(H2PO4)(HPO4)2(PO4): Archimedean lattice T11 in distorted layers built from Co4O12(OH)4 squares
Authors: Guo Wenbin , Tang Yingying , Zhang Suyun , Chen Sihuai , Xiang Hongping , Xu Jinqiu , Cui Meiyan , Wang Lin , Qiu Chaoqun , He Zhangzhen
Published: April 2016

The last number of Archimedean lattice was realized for the first time in a layered phosphate, BaCo4(OH)2(H2PO4)(HPO4)2(PO4).
Core-double shell ZnO/ZnS@Co3O4 heterostructure as high performance pseudocapacitor
Authors: Sarkar Sanjit , Maiti Sandipan , Mahanty Sourindra , Basak Durga
Published: April 2016

ZnO/ZnS@Co3O4 pseudocapacitor with high specific capacitance and energy density.
Flow injection with on-line dilution and single particle inductively coupled plasma – mass spectrometry for monitoring silver nanoparticles in seawater and in marine microorganisms
Authors: Toncelli Claudio , Mylona Kyriaki , Tsapakis Manolis , Pergantis Spiros A.
Published: April 2016

Description of a flow injection method for monitoring silver nanoparticles by single particle ICP-MS in seawater matrix and seawater microorganisms.
Microfluidic co-culture platform to quantify chemotaxis of primary stem cells
Authors: Tatárová Z. , Abbuehl J. P. , Maerkl S. , Huelsken J.
Published: April 2016

A microfluidic chemotaxis assay which combines on-chip production of chemoattractants with multiplex analysis of migratory properties of primary stem cells.
To bend or not to bend – are heteroatom interactions within conjugated molecules effective in dictating conformation and planarity?
Authors: Conboy Gary , Spencer Howard J. , Angioni Enrico , Kanibolotsky Alexander L. , Findlay Neil J. , Coles Simon J. , Wilson Claire , Pitak Mateusz B. , Risko Chad , Coropceanu Veaceslav , Brédas Jean-Luc , Skabara Peter J.
Published: April 2016

The role of heteratoms in defining the conformation in conjugated structures is discussed.
Kinetics of nitrogen-doped carbon dot formation via hydrothermal synthesis
Authors: Ogi Takashi , Aishima Kana , Permatasari Fitri Aulia , Iskandar Ferry , Tanabe Eishi , Okuyama Kikuo
Published: April 2016

How fast is the reaction of N-doped C-dot formation?
Photoresponsive assemblies of linear-dendritic copolymers containing azobenzene in the dendron interior: the effect of the dendron structure on dye encapsulation and release
Authors: Kalva Nagendra , Basutkar Nitin B. , Ambade Ashootosh V.
Published: April 2016

Linear-dendritic copolymers show differential dye encapsulation and photoinduced dye release based on the number and positions of azobenzenes in the dendritic backbone as well as substituents on the dendron periphery.
Heteropoly acid catalysts for the synthesis of fragrance compounds from bio-renewables: acetylation of nopol and terpenic alcohols
Authors: Costa Vinicius V. , da Silva Rocha Kelly A. , Oliveira Luiz C. A. , Kozhevnikova Elena F. , Kozhevnikov Ivan V. , Gusevskaya Elena V.
Published: April 2016

Commercially important esters are obtained from biomass-based alcoholsviagreen solvent-free catalytic processes under ambient conditions using a simple heterogeneous catalyst.
Hydration of oxalic acid–ammonia complex: atmospheric implication and Rayleigh-scattering properties
Authors: Peng Xiu-Qiu , Huang Teng , Miao Shou-Kui , Chen Jiao , Wen Hui , Feng Ya-Juan , Hong Yu , Wang Chun-Yu , Huang Wei
Published: April 2016

A previous study of the binary system (H2C2O4)(NH3)n (n = 1–6) suggested that an oxalic acid–ammonia complex may participate in atmospheric aerosol formations.
Towards the realization of luminescence from visible emitting trivalent lanthanides (Sm, Eu, Tb, Dy) in polar zinc sulfide nanoparticles: evaluation of in vitro cytotoxicity
Authors: Chakraborty Arijita , Debnath Gouranga H. , Ahir Manisha , Bhattacharya Saurav , Upadhyay Priyanka , Adhikary Arghya , Mukherjee Prasun
Published: April 2016

This study develops water dispersible trivalent terbium cation incorporated zinc sulfide nanoparticles for potential anti-cancer therapy and cellular imaging.
Multi-color solid-state emission of β-iminoenolate boron complexes tuned by methoxyl groups: aggregation-induced emission and mechanofluorochromism
Authors: Zhang Zhenqi , Wu Zhu , Sun Jingbo , Xue Pengchong , Lu Ran
Published: April 2016

New β-iminoenolate boron complexes bearing benzoxazole were synthesized, and they exhibited strong luminescence in solid states.
Tertiary butyl hydroquinone as a novel additive for SEI film formation in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Jia-Qi , Zhuang Quan-Chao , Shi Yue-Li , Yan Xiaodong , Zhao Xing , Chen Xiaobo
Published: April 2016

TBHQ, as a new electrolyte additive, largely improved the electrochemical performance of the graphite electrode, benefited from the formation of a stable and compact thin SEI film.
CO2conversion by reverse water gas shift catalysis: comparison of catalysts, mechanisms and their consequences for CO2conversion to liquid fuels
Authors: Daza Yolanda A. , Kuhn John N.
Published: April 2016

The reverse water gas shift reaction, its proposed mechanisms, currently used and proposed catalysts and an intensified version of the reaction are evaluated for their abilities to significantly reduced CO2atmospheric concentration.
Magnetic memory effect in self-assembled nickel ferrite nanoparticles having mesoscopic void spaces
Authors: Kumari Vandana , Dey Koushik , Giri Saurav , Bhaumik Asim
Published: April 2016

We report a novel approach for fabricating nanocrystalline and mesoporous nickel ferrite nanoparticles of ca. 5–9 nm size and it showed interesting memory effect as a consequence of interparticle interaction of self-assembled nanoparticles.
Batch and continuous biogenic hydrogen fermentation of acid pretreated de-oiled jatropha waste (DJW) hydrolysate
Authors: Kumar Gopalakrishnan , Sivagurunathan Periysamy , Chen Chin-Chao , Lin Chiu-Yue
Published: April 2016

In an attempt to tailor the efficient hydrogen fermentation from hydrochloric acid-pretreated hydrolysate of de-oiled jatropha waste (DJW), batch tests were conducted to find the optimal hydrolysate concentration, temperature and pH.
Phonon optics, thermal expansion tensor, thermodynamic and chemical bonding properties of Al4SiC4 and Al4Si2C5: a first-principles study
Authors: Li Y. F. , Xiao B. , Sun L. , Gao Y. M. , Cheng Y. H.
Published: April 2016

The creation of stacking fault in Al4SiC4 crystal structure due to a phonon mode (E1, 139.7 cm−1, Raman active) at Γ-point with negative mode-Grüneisen constant (−0.28). (a) 3-D side-view; (b) 2-D side view.
Phosphorescence of free base corroles
Authors: Knyukshto Valeriy N. , Ngo Thien Huynh , Dehaen Wim , Maes Wouter , Kruk Mikalai M.
Published: April 2016

The phosphorescence features of free base corroles have been analysed, completing the picture on their excited state photophysical properties.
Amphiphilic gels of solvatochromic fluorescent poly(2-oxazoline)s containing D–π–A pyrenes
Authors: Chen Chia-Hsiu , Niko Yosuke , Konishi Gen-ichi
Published: April 2016

We report amphiphilic, fluorescent, solvatochromic poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (POZO-py) and poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEtOZO-py), which contain D–π–A pyrene dye units in their side chains.
Depolarization effects of Li2FeSiO4 nanocrystals wrapped in different conductive carbon networks as cathodes for high performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Kai , Ren Wenju , Yang Jinlong , Tan Rui , Liu Yidong , Pan Feng
Published: April 2016

We report composite electrodes with Li2FeSiO4 nanocrystals wrapped in three different types of conductive carbon, Acetylene Black, carbon nanotubes and Ketjen Black, to demonstrate depolarization effects on the electrochemical performance of Li-ion batteries.
Esterification of poly(γ-glutamic acid) (γ-PGA) mediated by its tetrabutylammonium salt
Authors: Biagiotti M. , Borghese G. , Francescato P. , Morelli C. F. , Albertini A. M. , Bavaro T. , Ubiali D. , Mendichi R. , Speranza G.
Published: April 2016

Derivatization of γ-PGA as TBA salt assists its chemical manipulation into poly(α-alkyl-γ-glutamate)s.
Fei-Phos ligand-controlled asymmetric palladium-catalyzed allylic substitutions with structurally diverse nucleophiles: scope and limitations
Authors: Xu Jian-Xing , Ye Fei , Bai Xing-Feng , Zhang Jin , Xu Zheng , Zheng Zhan-Jiang , Xu Li-Wen
Published: April 2016

The asymmetric palladium-catalysed alkylation of structurally diverse nucleophiles, including alcohols, activated methylene compounds, indoles, and aromatic amines, led to the formation of corresponding products in good yields and high enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee).
ortho-Selective C–H addition of N,N-dimethyl anilines to alkenes by a yttrium catalyst
Authors: Song Guoyong , Luo Gen , Oyamada Juzo , Luo Yi , Hou Zhaomin
Published: April 2016

The efficient and selective ortho-alkylation of N,N-dimethyl anilines via C–H addition to alkenes has been achieved for the first time using a cationic half-sandwich yttrium catalyst.
Iridium-catalyzed selective 1,2-hydrosilylation of N-heterocycles
Authors: Jeong Jinseong , Park Sehoon , Chang Sukbok
Published: April 2016

A silylene-bridged Ir dimer in situ generated from [Ir(coe)2Cl]2 and Et2SiH2 was found to catalyze the hydrosilylation of N-heteroaromatics to furnish dearomatized azacyclic products with high activity (up to 1000 TONs), excellent selectivity, and good functional group tolerance.
Improved photoelectrochemical performance of electrodeposited metal-doped BiVO4 on Pt-nanoparticle modified FTO surfaces
Authors: Gutkowski Ramona , Peeters Daniel , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: April 2016

Modification of the FTO substrate with Pt-core results in higher photoelectrochemical performance compared to films electrodeposited on bare FTO substrates.
A self-healable and easily recyclable supramolecular hydrogel electrolyte for flexible supercapacitors
Authors: Guo Yunzhou , Zhou Xiao , Tang Qianqiu , Bao Hua , Wang Gengchao , Saha Petr
Published: April 2016

A novel ferric ion cross-linked PAA supramolecular hydrogel electrolyte (Fe3+/PAA) with self-healing ability and easy-recyclability is fabricated and assembled with graphene foam supported polypyrrole electrodes (GF@PPy) to test its electrochemical performance.
Surface defect chemistry of Y-substituted and hydrated BaZrO3 with subsurface space-charge regions
Authors: Polfus Jonathan M. , Bjørheim Tor S. , Norby Truls , Bredesen Rune
Published: April 2016

First-principles calculations were utilized to elucidate the complete defect equilibria of surfaces of proton conducting BaZrO3, encompassing charged species adsorbed to the surface, defects in the surface layer as well as in the subsurface space-charge region and bulk.
Facile synthesis of highly active and durable PdM/C (M = Fe, Mn) nanocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction in an alkaline medium
Authors: Holade Yaovi , da Silva Rodrigo G. , Servat Karine , Napporn Teko W. , Canaff Christine , de Andrade Adalgisa R. , Kokoh Kouakou B.
Published: April 2016

We report decisive advances in costly-robust Pd-based ORR nanocatalysts preparation, which enlighten us on the crucial role of nanowire oxides.
Conformable superoleophobic surfaces with multi-scale structures on polymer substrates
Authors: Cho Handong , Jeong Jonghyeon , Kim Wook , Choi Dukhyun , Lee Sangmin , Hwang Woonbong
Published: April 2016

Multi-scale structures combining Cu(OH)2 nanowire arrays and AlO(OH) nanoflake structures are utilized for easily adaptable superoleophobic surfaces.
Revealing the semiconductor–catalyst interface in buried platinum black silicon photocathodes
Authors: Aguiar Jeffery A. , Anderson Nicholas C. , Neale Nathan R.
Published: April 2016

Burying platinum black silicon photocathodes provides an atomically clean Pt catalyst/Si interface free of oxide or other phases.
Inhaled SiO2nanoparticles blunt cold-exposure-induced WAT-browning and metabolism activation in white and brown adipose tissue
Authors: Lin Yangsheng , Li Xi , Zhang Li , Zhang Yongqiang , Zhu Huili , Zhang Ying , Xi Zhuge , Yang Danfeng
Published: April 2016

Concern has been growing over the potential hazard of nanoparticles to human health because of increasing ambient particulate air pollution.
Towards a formalin-free hospital. Levels of 15-F2t-isoprostane and malondialdehyde to monitor exposure to formaldehyde in nurses from operating theatres
Authors: Bellisario Valeria , Mengozzi Giulio , Grignani Elena , Bugiani Massimiliano , Sapino Anna , Bussolati Gianni , Bono Roberto
Published: April 2016

Nurses are exposed to formaldehyde when managing surgical samples that are to be later transferred to histopathology.
19.1 GHz 18 mW divide‐by‐3 heterodyne injection locking frequency divider in 0.18 µm CMOS technology
Authors: Huang Jian‐Hua , Yu Xiao‐Peng , Xu Shi‐Yi , Jin Jing , Yu Fa‐Xin
Published: April 2016

A divide‐by‐3 frequency divider based on heterodyne injection‐locking technique is presented. An injection‐locking LC oscillator with resistive feedback and differential signal injection is implemented to achieve higher injection efficiency over a wider range. Moreover, by optimisation of inter‐stage loading as well as filter‐less design, only one inductor is used in this design to save silicon area. Implemented in a standard 0.18 µm CMOS process, the proposed divide‐by‐3 divider has a locking range from 17 to 19.1 GHz without extra frequency tuning and consumes 10 mA from a 1.8 V supply voltage.
Finite‐time disturbance observer based non‐singular terminal sliding‐mode control for pulse width modulation based DC–DC buck converters with mismatched load disturbances
Authors: Wang Junxiao , Li Shihua , Yang Jun , Wu Bin , Li Qi
Published: April 2016

This study investigates a finite‐time disturbance observer (FTDO) based non‐singular terminal sliding‐mode control (NTSMC) approach for pulse width modulation based DC–DC buck converters subject to matched/mismatched resistance load disturbances. Considering the mismatched resistance load disturbance which does not act in the same channel as the control input, a novel non‐singular terminal sliding‐mode manifold incorporating with a disturbance estimation technique is designed. A FTDO‐based NTSMC method is introduced for DC–DC buck converter systems. A rigorous finite‐time stability analysis is also presented. As compared with the nominal NTSMC and existed SMC+ extended stated observer (ESO) method, the proposed method obtains a better disturbance rejection ability no matter the disturbances satisfy the so‐called matching condition or not. Simulation and experimental comparison results are implemented to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
On regular polygon solutions of Coulomb equation of motion of n + 2 charges n of which are planar
Authors: Skrypnik W. I.
Published: April 2016

Regular polygon periodic solutions of the Coulomb equation of motion for a system of n + 2 charges, in which equal n − 1 negative charges and one positive charge are restricted to a plane, are found. They are such that the coordinates of the equal planar charges coincide with vertices of a regular polygon centered at the origin where the immobile positive charge is located. The simplest of them are exact solutions which describe a rotation of the planar equal negative charges around the positive charge. The exact solutions are characterized by immobile non-planar two equal charges, which are located at the perpendicular crossing the origin, whose distances to it are equal.
Effect of the electrode material on the breakdown voltage and space charge distribution of propylene carbonate under impulse voltage
Authors: Yang Qing , Jin Yang , Sima Wenxia , Liu Mengna
Published: April 2016

This paper reports three types of electrode materials (copper, aluminum, and stainless steel) that are used to measure the impulse breakdown voltage of propylene carbonate. The breakdown voltage of propylene carbonate with these electrode materials is different and is in decreasing order of stainless steel, copper, and aluminum. To explore how the electrode material affects the insulating properties of the liquid dielectric, the electric field distribution and space charge distribution of propylene carbonate under impulse voltage with the three electrode materials are measured on the basis of a Kerr electro-optic test. The space charge injection ability is highest for aluminum, followed by copper, and then the stainless steel electrodes. Furthermore, the electric field distortion rate decreased in the order of the aluminum, copper, and then the stainless steel electrode. This paper explains that the difference in the electric field distortion rate between the three electrode materials led to the difference in the impulse breakdown voltage of propylene carbonate.
Talking camels: a consultation strategy for consent to conduct feral camel management on Aboriginal-owned land in Australia
Authors: Kaethner Ben , See Peter , Pennington Adam
Published: April 2016

Thorough consultation and informed consent are required for any work on Aboriginal-owned land in Australia. Consultations for feral camel (Camelus dromedarius) management under the Australian Feral Camel Management Project across the Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia were conducted across a vast area, spanning a diversity of cultures and landscape types. Aboriginal organisations from these jurisdictions developed consultative processes that supported Aboriginal communities in making informed decisions on any removal of camels from their country. This article describes the communication techniques used to depict the feral camel issues and opportunities to Aboriginal communities at the local and landscape scale. The decisions that communities arrived at were varied, but consistently focussed on feral camel removal. Their decisions have led to broad-scale feral camel removal under the Australian Feral Camel Management Project, and beyond.
Remarkably low affinity of CD4/peptide-major histocompatibility complex class II protein interactions
Authors: Jönsson Peter , Southcombe Jennifer H. , Santos Ana Mafalda , Huo Jiandong , Fernandes Ricardo A. , McColl James , Lever Melissa , Evans Edward J. , Hudson Alexander , Chang Veronica T. , Hanke Tomáš , Godkin Andrew , Dunne Paul D. , Horrocks Mathew H. , Palayret Matthieu , Screaton Gavin R. , Petersen Jan , Rossjohn Jamie , Fugger Lars , Dushek Omer , Xu Xiao-Ning , Davis Simon J. , Klenerman David
Published: April 2016

Significance

The function of the T-cell coreceptor CD4 presents a long-standing puzzle. Although it is among the most potent modulators of immune responses, CD4 interacts with its binding partner, peptide-major histocompatibility class II (pMHC II), with previously unmeasurably low affinity. Here, we set a new upper limit for the solution affinity of CD4 and pMHC II and show that the two-dimensional dissociation constant in supported lipid bilayers is as much as two to three orders of magnitude higher than that for other interacting leukocyte surface proteins. These findings extend the known physical limits of functional protein interactions at the cell surface and suggest new ways that T cells may use differential receptor affinities during antigen recognition and discrimination.
The PSI–U1 snRNP interaction regulates male mating behavior in
Drosophila
Authors: Wang Qingqing , Taliaferro J. Matthew , Klibaite Ugne , Hilgers Valérie , Shaevitz Joshua W. , Rio Donald C.
Published: April 2016

Significance

How gene regulation orchestrates brain activities that lead to cognition and behavior remains a challenging question in biology. Alternative pre-mRNA splicing (AS) is a crucial mechanism that is extensively used in the brain to generate diverse and functionally distinct protein products from a limited number of eukaryotic genes, and can thereby switch neuron functions and rewire neural circuits for different behaviors. Here, we elucidate the function of an essential AS regulatory protein, P-element somatic inhibitor (PSI), in coordinating male courtship behavior in the fruit fly
Drosophila melanogaster
. We show that PSI fine-tunes the AS patterns of a dynamic network of neural gene transcripts and exerts precise control of male mating behavior. Our results provide important information into mechanisms for behavior control in animals.
Models and reality*
Authors: Stalnaker Robert
Published: April 2016

Kripke models, interpreted realistically, have difficulty making sense of the thesis that there might have existed things that do not in fact exist, since a Kripke model in which this thesis is true requires a model structure in which there are possible worlds with domains that contain things that do not exist. This paper argues that we can use Kripke models as representational devices that allow us to give a realistic interpretation of a modal language. The method of doing this is sketched, with the help of an analogy with a Galilean relativist theory of spatial properties and relations.
Williamsonian modal epistemology, possibility-based
Authors: Vetter Barbara
Published: April 2016

Williamsonian modal epistemology (WME) is characterized by two commitments: realism about modality, and anti-exceptionalism about our modal knowledge. Williamson's own counterfactual-based modal epistemology is the best known implementation of WME, but not the only option that is available. I sketch and defend an alternative implementation which takes our knowledge of metaphysical modality to arise, not from knowledge of counterfactuals, but from our knowledge of ordinary possibility statements of the form ‘x can F’. I defend this view against a criticism indicated in Williamson's own work, and argue that it is better connected to the semantics of modal language.
The Risk of Using Inductive Risk to Challenge the Value-Free Ideal
Authors: de Melo-Martín Inmaculada , Intemann Kristen
Published: April 2016

The argument from inductive risk has been embraced by many as a successful account of the role of values in science that challenges the value-free ideal. We argue that it is not obvious that the argument from inductive risk actually undermines the value-free ideal. This is because the inductive risk argument endorses an assumption held by proponents of the value-free ideal: that contextual values never play an appropriate role in determining evidence. We show that challenging the value-free ideal ultimately requires rejecting this assumption.
Contingency and History
Authors: Sterelny Kim
Published: April 2016

Debates on the contingency of history have largely focused on the history of life. This article targets the supposed contingency of human history. It does not defend a global claim about the overall contingency of history. Rather, it aims to identify and explain the difference between robust and fragile historical trajectories. It does so by considering a set of contrasting cases and identifying critical differences among the cases. The analysis shows that one important source of contingency is the historical emergence of command-and-control institutions; one important source of robustness is the existence of population-level processes structured by relatively stable institutions.
Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking in Finite Systems
Authors: Fraser James D.
Published: April 2016

The orthodox characterization of spontaneous symmetry breaking (SSB) in statistical mechanics appeals to novel properties of systems with infinite degrees of freedom, namely, the existence of multiple equilibrium states. This raises the same puzzles about the status of the thermodynamic limit fueling recent debates about phase transitions. I argue that there are prospects of explaining the success of the standard approach to SSB in terms of the properties of large finite systems. Consequently, despite initial appearances, the need to account for SSB phenomena does not offer decisive support to claims about the explanatory and representational indispensability of the thermodynamic limit.
Intervals and Number of Applications of Acibenzolar-S-Methyl for the Control of Bacterial Spot on Processing Tomato
Authors: Pontes Nadson de Carvalho , Nascimento Abadia dos Reis , Golynski Adelmo , Maffia Luiz Antonio , Rogério de Oliveira José , Quezado-Duval Alice Maria
Published: April 2016

Acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) is a plant activator that triggers systemic acquired resistance that is labeled for use in Brazil for managing tomato bacterial spot. The aim of this study was to define the optimum relationship between interval and number of applications of ASM for the most efficacious control of bacterial spot on processing tomato. Four intervals between applications (4, 7, 10, and 14 days) and four application frequencies (4, 6, 8, and 10 applications) were evaluated in five trials performed between 2010 and 2011 in Brasília, Distrito Federal, and in Morrinhos, in the state of Goiás. Copper hydroxide (CH) was applied after ASM applications to complete 13 applications per growing season. Two check treatments were added: standard CH weekly applications and untreated. The following variables were evaluated: severity of bacterial spot, yield, percentage of ripe and rotten fruit, soluble solids content, and the benefit/cost ratio. Disease severity varied between treatments in three trials and yield varied in two trials. A greater number of applications resulted in a reduction of bacterial spot, and the ideal interval between applications was between 8 to 10 days. However, there was a reduction in yield with 10 ASM applications. The temporal effect of ASM applications on bacterial spot severity was evaluated under greenhouse conditions. Reduction in disease severity was observed up to 6 days following ASM application. Additionally, the weekly treatment of seven applications of ASM followed by six applications of CH was compared with a standard program of CH under commercial production conditions in Itaberaí, Goiás, where bacterial spot occurred naturally. The program with ASM and CH resulted in significantly less foliar disease severity than the standard program, which did not result in yield gains. In addition, no differences were detected between the two programs for soluble solids content, industrial yield, plant height, and percentage of ripe and rotten fruit.
Metabolic syndrome as a predictor of endometrial polyps in postmenopausal women
Authors: Bueloni-Dias Flavia Neves , Spadoto-Dias Daniel , Delmanto Lucia R.M.G. , Nahas-Neto Jorge , Nahas Eliana A.P.
Published: April 2016

Objective:

The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical predictive factors for endometrial polyps in postmenopausal women compared with postmenopausal women without polyps.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 132 Brazilian women with a histopathological diagnosis of endometrial polyps were compared with 264 women without endometrial alterations (control). The study group included women aged at least 45 years with amenorrhea for at least 12 months, who underwent hysteroscopic polypectomy. The control group consisted of women aged at least 45 years with amenorrhea for at least 12 months, without postmenopausal bleeding and endometrial thickness less than 5 mm by transvaginal ultrasonography. Clinical, anthropometric (body mass index and waist circumference), laboratory, and ultrasonographic data were collected to evaluate predictive factors for endometrial polyps. The Student's t test, χ2 test, and logistic regression (odds ratio [OR]) were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

A higher percentage of women with polyps were obese (72%) when compared with control (39%) (P < 0.0001). Waist circumference was greater among women with polyps (P = 0.0001). The incidence of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia was higher among women with endometrial polyps (P < 0.0001). According to the diagnostic criteria of the US National Cholesterol Education Program/Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP/ATP III), 48.5% of the women with polyps and 33.3% of the controls were classified as having metabolic syndrome (MetS) (P = 0.004). The risk of endometrial polyps was higher in women with body mass index at least 25 kg/m2 (OR = 4.66; 95% CI 2.16-10.05); glucose at least 100 mg/dL (OR = 2.83; 95% CI 1.36-5.90); dyslipidemia (OR = 7.02; 95% CI 3.70-13.32); diabetes (OR = 2.58; 95% CI 1.05-6.32); and MetS (OR = 2.76; 95% CI 1.18-6.46) when compared with control, adjusted for age, and time since menopause.

Conclusions:

In postmenopausal women, obesity, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and the presence of MetS were predictive factors for endometrial polyps.
Delayed Anaerobic Threshold in Heart Failure Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Palermo Pietro , Magrì Damiano , Sciomer Susanna , Stefanini Elisa , Agalbato Cecilia , Compagnino Elisa , Chircu Cristina M. , Maffessanti Francesco , Teodoru Minodora , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: April 2016

PURPOSE:

To assess whether atrial fibrillation (AF) in heart failure (HF) affects oxygen uptake at anaerobic threshold (

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2 AT) and heart rate (HR) kinetics.

METHODS:

A total of 15 patients with HF and AF and 18 with HF and sinus rhythm (SR) performed a maximal incremental and 2 constant workload cycle ergometer cardiopulmonary exercise tests (below and above AT, at 25% and 75% of maximal workload, respectively). At constant workload tests, kinetics of

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2 and HR were assessed by calculating time constant (τ).

RESULTS:

HF patients with AF showed a similar peak

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2 to those with SR (16.7 ± 4.5 mL/kg/min vs 16.6 ± 3.9 mL/kg/min). However,

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2 AT (11.3 ± 2.9 mL/kg/min vs 9.3 ± 2.8 mL/kg/min; P < .05), peak HR (149 ± 18.8 bpm vs 116.4 ± 20.4 bpm; P < .001), HR AT (125.3 ± 19.1 bpm vs 90.3 ± 15.5 bpm; P < .001), and HR increase during exercise were greater in HF patients with AF. Finally, τHR and τ

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2 below and above AT were not significantly different.

CONCLUSIONS:

In HF patients with AF, despite a similar peak

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2 compared with patients with HF and SR,

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2 AT is higher because of a higher HR and a greater HR increase during exercise. One postulated mechanism would be a greater cardiac output increase at the beginning of exercise in HF patients with AF. The delayed AT generates uncertainty about the meaning of a

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2 value at AT in HF patients with AF, because a higher AT is usually associated with better performance and a better prognosis.
Direct oral anticoagulants: a practical guide for the emergency physician
Authors: Hogg Kerstin , Panag Ajit , Worster Andrew , Thachil Jecko
Published: April 2016

The direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are the mainstay for stroke prophylaxis in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and treatment of acute venous thrombosis. They are attractive alternatives to warfarin because of their efficacy, ease of prescription and safety profile. The emergency department has gained expertise in the management of DOAC bleeding complications, but has been slower to adopt prescription decisions. Emergency clinicians are in a unique position to identify patients who are prescribed DOACs and are at high risk of impending bleeding. This is a practical guide for the emergency clinician on how to prescribe DOACs, the red flags for DOAC patients in the emergency department and advances in the treatment of bleeding.
The Association of Gasoline Prices With Hospital Utilization and Costs for Motorcycle and Nonmotorcycle Motor Vehicle Injuries in the United States
Authors: Zhu He , Wilson Fernando A. , Stimpson Jim P. , Araz Ozgur M. , Kim Jungyoon , Chen Baojiang , Wu Li-Tzy
Published: April 2016

Objectives:

This study examined the association between gasoline prices and hospitalizations for motorcycle and nonmotorcycle motor vehicle crash (MVC) injuries.

Methods:

Data on inpatient hospitalizations were obtained from the 2001 to 2010 Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Panel feasible generalized least squares models were used to estimate the effects of monthly inflation-adjusted gasoline prices on hospitalization rates for MVC injuries and to predict the impact of increasing gasoline taxes.

Results:

On the basis of the available data, a $1.00 increase in the gasoline tax was associated with an estimated 8348 fewer annual hospitalizations for nonmotorcycle MVC injuries, and reduced hospital costs by $143 million. However, the increase in the gasoline tax was also associated with an estimated 3574 more annual hospitalizations for motorcycle crash injuries, and extended hospital costs by $73 million.

Conclusions:

This analysis of some existing data suggest that the increased utilization and costs of hospitalization from motorcycle crash injuries associated with an increase in the price of gasoline are likely to substantially offset reductions in nonmotorcycle MVC injuries. A policy decision to increase the gasoline tax could improve traffic safety if the increased tax is paired with public health interventions to improve motorcycle safety.
Diquafosol for Soft Contact Lens Dryness: Clinical Evaluation and Tear Analysis
Authors: Shigeyasu Chika , Yamada Masakazu , Akune Yoko , Fukui Masaki
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy of topical application of 3% diquafosol tetrasodium solution for the treatment of soft contact lens (SCL) wearers with dryness. In addition to clinical tests and subjective symptoms, we assessed the fluorescence intensity of wheat germ agglutinin conjugate of fluorescein (F-WGA) used as a marker of membrane-associated mucins and sialic acid concentration in tear fluids as a marker of secreted mucins.

Methods

Twelve SCL wearers with dryness symptoms were treated with diquafosol for 4 weeks. Clinical tests included the tear film break-up time (BUT), corneal and conjunctival fluorescein staining scores, and Schirmer values. Subjective symptoms were evaluated by the Dry Eye-Related Quality-of-Life Score (DEQS). Fluorescence intensities in the central cornea were measured by fluorophotometry at 5 minutes after a 5% F-WGA solution was applied to the eye. The tears collected by the Schirmer test strips were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and the concentrations of sialic acid; total protein; and the four major tear proteins secretory IgA, lactoferrin, lipocalin-1, and lysozyme proteins were measured.

Results

Comparing the results before and after diquafosol treatment, BUT (p < 0.01), kerato-conjunctival staining score (p < 0.05), corneal staining score (p < 0.05), and DEQS score (p < 0.01) showed statistically significant improvements. The F-WGA fluorescence intensities (p < 0.0001) significantly increased after treatment, whereas the concentrations of sialic acid and tear proteins remained unchanged.

Conclusions

Topical application of diquafosol solution to the SCL wearers with dryness improved biomarker of membrane-associated mucins, BUT, staining of cornea and conjunctiva, and subjective symptoms.
Emergency Department Management of Febrile Respiratory Illness in Children
Authors: Shah Sonal , Bourgeois Florence , Mannix Rebekah , Nelson Kyle , Bachur Richard , Neuman Mark I.
Published: April 2016

Background

There are limited data regarding testing and treatment patterns for children presenting to the emergency department (ED) with a febrile respiratory illness.

Objectives

The aims of the study were to evaluate the rates of diagnostic testing, antibiotic use, and pneumonia diagnosis among children presenting to an ED with a febrile respiratory illness and to evaluate whether differences exist on the basis of care at a pediatric versus a general ED.

Methods

Cross-sectional study of children presenting to an ED with a febrile respiratory illness from 2001 to 2010 used the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. Using extrapolated estimates from the weighted population sample, rates of laboratory and radiographic testing, antibiotic use, and pneumonia diagnosis were ascertained. Comparisons were made between children treated at a general versus pediatric ED. A subpopulation of children undergoing chest radiograph was identified to target those with concern for radiographic pneumonia.

Results

Fifteen percent of the 12 million visits for febrile respiratory illness occurred in a pediatric ED. Thirteen percent (95% confidence interval [CI], 11–15) of patients had a complete blood count, 4% (95% CI, 3–5) had a blood culture, and 33% (95% CI, 30–35) had a chest radiograph obtained; no differences were observed on the basis of ED type. Despite similar rates of pneumonia diagnosis, antibiotics were prescribed less often for children cared for in a pediatric (35% [95% CI, 30–41]) versus general ED (50% [95% CI, 47–53]). Similar findings were observed among the subgroup of children with febrile respiratory illness undergoing chest radiograph.

Conclusions

High rates of diagnostic testing were observed among children with febrile respiratory illnesses, despite low rates of pneumonia diagnosis. Antibiotic use was higher among children cared for at a general ED compared with pediatric ED.