bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between the plasmapause and outer belt electrons
Authors: Goldstein J. , Baker D. N. , Blake J. B. , De Pascuale S. , Funsten H. O. , Jaynes A. N. , Jahn J.‐M. , Kletzing C. A. , Kurth W. S. , Li W. , Reeves G. D. , Spence H. E.
Published: August 2016

We quantify the spatial relationship between the plasmapause and outer belt electrons for a 5 day period, 15–20 January 2013, by comparing locations of relativistic electron flux peaks to the plasmapause. A peak‐finding algorithm is applied to 1.8–7.7 MeV relativistic electron flux data. A plasmapause gradient finder is applied to wave‐derived electron number densities >10 cm−3. We identify two outer belts. Outer belt 1 is a stable zone of >3 MeV electrons located 1–2 RE inside the plasmapause. Outer belt 2 is a dynamic zone of <3 MeV electrons within 0.5 RE of the moving plasmapause. Electron fluxes earthward of each belt's peak are anticorrelated with cold plasma density. Belt 1 decayed on hiss timescales prior to a disturbance on 17 January and suffered only a modest dropout, perhaps owing to shielding by the plasmasphere. Afterward, the partially depleted belt 1 continued to decay at the initial rate. Belt 2 was emptied out by strong disturbance‐time losses but restored within 24 h. For global context we use a plasmapause test particle simulation and derive a new plasmaspheric index Fp, the fraction of a circular drift orbit inside the plasmapause. We find that the locally measured plasmapause is (for this event) a good proxy for the globally integrated opportunity for losses in cold plasma. Our analysis of the 15–20 January 2013 time interval confirms that high‐energy electron storage rings can persist for weeks or even months if prolonged quiet conditions prevail. This case study must be followed up by more general study (not limited to a 5 day period).
Viruses of the
A
rchaea
Authors: Prangishvili David , Basta Tamara , Garrett Roger A , Krupovic Mart
Published: August 2016

Viruses infecting members of Archaea, the third domain of life, constitute an integral, yet unique part of the virosphere. Many of these viruses, specifically the species that infect hyperthermophilic hosts, display morphotypes – for example, bottle shaped, spindle shaped, droplet shaped, coil shaped, bacilliform – not known to be associated with the other two cellular domains, Bacteria and Eukarya. The distinctiveness of the hyperthermophilic archaeal viruses extends to their genome sequences: a large majority of the predicted genes yield no sequence matches in public databases and encode proteins with exceptional structures and unknown functions. Moreover, the ways in which these viruses interact with their hosts are also unique, as indicated by a unique virion egress mechanism, which involves formation of pyramidal portals on the cell surface. Some viruses that infect extremely halophilic Archaea are morphologically highly similar to head‐tail bacterial viruses of the order
Caudovirales
and apparently share an ancestry with them. Identified archaeal viruses almost exclusively carry double‐stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) genomes and only a few species have single‐stranded DNA genomes.

Key Concepts

Archaea, the third domain of life, same as the two other domains, Bacteria and Eukarya, is parasitised by viruses.

Known species of archaeal viruses have been isolated from environments with extreme conditions – extremely high temperatures, exceeding 80 °C, or extremely high salinity.

Known archaeal viruses have DNA genomes, most of which are double stranded.

Morphological diversity of archaeal viruses exceeds that of bacterial viruses (bacteriophages).

Archaeal viruses from extreme thermal environments are enveloped and have diverse unusual morphologies, indicative of multiple independent origins.

Most known viruses from highly saline waters resemble bacteriophages and share an ancestry with them.

Most of the genes of hyperthermophilic archaeal viruses have no homologues in other known viruses.

The knowledge on viruses of Archaea contributes to the understanding of the origin and evolution of viruses and virus–host interactions.
Chloroplast Genome
Authors: Howe Christopher J
Published: August 2016

Chloroplasts contain a genome that is a relic of the endosymbiont that gave rise to the organelle. These genomes typically contain 100–200 genes and encode proteins important for photosynthesis and other chloroplast functions, although dinoflagellate algae have a greatly reduced and fragmented chloroplast genome. Many, but not all, nonphotosynthetic taxa retain a remnant chloroplast genome. In some organisms the chloroplast genome may be retained to allow redox‐mediated control of gene expression, whereas in others it may continue to exist because transfer of essential genes to the nucleus is no longer possible. Multiple ribonucleic acid (RNA) polymerases are involved in chloroplast transcription in land plants, and post‐transcriptional processing involving nuclear‐encoded RNA‐binding proteins also plays an important part in the expression of the chloroplast genome. Gene expression may be regulated at a number of levels, and redox poise in the organelle may be particularly important for this.

Key Concepts

Chloroplasts originated in the ancestor of plants and red and green algae by endosymbiotic acquisition of a cyanobacterium, and then spread to many other eukaryotic lineages.

There are other examples of stable acquisition of a cyanobacterium by a nonphotosynthetic host.

Chloroplast genomes are typically 100–200 kbp in size, and include a set of genes for proteins essential to photosynthesis. Other genes present in the ancestral symbiont have been lost or relocated to the nucleus.

Many nonphotosynthetic organisms retain remnant chloroplasts, with genomes, reflecting the fact that photosynthesis is not the only biochemical process that takes place in the chloroplast.

In many organisms, gene transfer from chloroplast to nucleus can still take place, at an unexpectedly high frequency.

Establishment of the chloroplast has resulted in the development of nuclear‐encoded RNA‐binding protein families and, in land plants, additional RNA polymerases that play a central role in chloroplast gene expression.

Post‐transcriptional RNA processing plays an important role in chloroplast gene expression.

In photosynthetic organisms, chloroplast gene expression is closely linked to the organelle's redox poise.

The chloroplast can also influence the expression of nuclear genes.
Restoration of Terrestrial Communities
Authors: Wilson Scott D
Published: August 2016

Restoration aims to return ecosystems that have been altered by humans to states similar to unaltered systems in terms of dominant vegetation, energy flows, water capture and nutrient cycling. General themes in restoration include the degree of alteration, setting goals for the restoration, incorporating evaluation of progress, and methods for ameliorating soil and returning vegetation. A major challenge in many systems is creating vegetation with desirable species composition and richness, as opposed to low‐diversity stands of exotic species. Socioeconomic factors may have overriding influences on restoration strategies. Opportunities for advancement include replication of restorations among years to incorporate variation in weather, and reporting of more outcomes, including negative results. Restoration is a field ripe for research, both in the synthesis of applied knowledge and as a system for experimentally addressing a broad variety of ecological topics.

Key Concepts

Restoration aims to return ecosystems that have been altered by humans to states similar to unaltered systems, typically enhancing both biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Goals for restoration should be specified during the planning phase. The goal for restoration is primarily a socioeconomic question, dependent on community wishes and available resources.

Economic benefits from restoration are tangible but limited, so other benefits must be clear.

Restoration using exotic species is common, because of increased demand for ecosystem services and increased ubiquity of exotic species.

Exotic species can rapidly produce novel stable communities. Consequently, the endpoint of one restoration (an exotic, economically productive community) may be the starting point of another restoration to eliminate these species and restore native communities and enhance diversity.

Mine spoils may require chemical amelioration to reduce acidity or heavy metals. Soil organic matter often needs to be increased on severely altered sites, but in other cases needs to be decreased.

Propagules of desired species usually need to be added, as seeds, transplants, turves or hay.

Continuing evaluation and management is often required to aid succession in moving towards the goals.
Cis‐Regulatory Mutations in Human Disease
Authors: Douglas Adam , Peluso Silvia , Lettice Laura A , Hill Robert E
Published: August 2016

Enhancers are cis‐regulatory elements that accurately control the spatiotemporal pattern of gene expression and these can function over large genomic distances to activate the target gene. Genomewide methodologies have revealed general chromatin signatures for enhancers and the human and mouse noncoding genomes have undergone an extensive functional annotation. An increasing number of enhancer mutations are showing association with human disease, and disease mechanisms are being described that result from altered gene expression. Owing to the modular nature of enhancers, mutations can generate disease phenotypes that represent either a subset of the symptoms of coding mutations or due to a change in specificity of enhancer activity, a novel phenotype. Topologically associated domains, also known as
TADs
, have emerged as a fundamental structural unit to limit enhancer regulatory activity and disruptions of these boundaries result in gene misexpression and disease.

Key Concepts

Enhancers function over large genomic distances to activate the target gene.

Methodologies have been developed to annotate the functional elements in the noncoding genome.

Mutations in enhancers that regulate developmental gene expression can cause congenital abnormalities.

Owing to the modular nature of enhancers the disease presentation may be different from mutations in the coding region of the target gene.

Disruption of TAD boundaries can result in gene misexpression and disease.
The Spinal Cord in Hominin Evolution
Authors: Meyer Marc R
Published: August 2016

Spinal cord dimensions increased in both relative and absolute terms during the course of hominin evolution. Recent discoveries demonstrate the presence of a fully developed human‐sized cervical spinal cord in
Australopithecus afarensis
at 3.6 million years before present (Ma) and in the cervical and thoracic regions of
Homo erectus
at 1.8 Ma. The fossil evidence suggests that these hominins possessed a fully human‐like postcranial neurological substrate for precision coordination of the arm and hand, corroborated by corresponding skeletal anatomy of the hand and shoulder, as well as discoveries of penecontemporaneous lithic use and putative throwing manuports in the archaeological record. These new fossils provide insight into the neurobiological underpinnings of sophisticated manual behaviours, and overturn prior thinking on the evolution of the central nervous system in the human lineage, indicating that the evolution of the hominin spinal cord was completed well in advance of advances in brain size.

Key Concepts

The brain and spinal cord are both larger in humans than those of the African great apes.

New
Australopithecus afarensis
fossils from Woranso‐Mille, Ethiopia, demonstrate that hominin cervical spinal cord enlargement was completed by at least 3.6 million years ago.

Evidence from
Homo erectus
now shows that hominin thoracic spinal cord enlargement was completed by at least 1.8 million years ago.

These new discoveries reveal the neurological capability for fine‐motor coordination of the arm, hand, and thoracic muscles in our smaller brained ancestors.

It is now apparent that spinal cord expansion was completed prior to brain size expansion in the human lineage.
Design Strategy of Blue and Yellow Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Emitters and Their All‐Fluorescence White OLEDs with External Quantum Efficiency beyond 20%
Authors: Li Yunchuan , Li Xiang‐Long , Chen Dongjun , Cai Xinyi , Xie Gaozhan , He Zuozheng , Wu Yuan‐Chun , Lien Alan , Cao Yong , Su Shi‐Jian
Published: August 2016

Two thioxanthone‐derived isomeric series of thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters 1,6‐2TPA‐TX/3,6‐2TPA‐TX and 1,6‐2TPA‐TXO/3,6‐2TPA‐TXO are developed for organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). Blue emission devices based on symmetrical 3,6‐2TPA‐TX with common vertical transition route realize an extremely high external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 23.7%, and an ever highest EQE of 24.3% is achieved for yellow emission devices based on 3,6‐2TPA‐TXO by solely changing the sulfur atom valence state of the thioxanthone core. In contrast, their corresponding asymmetric isomers are affected by intramolecular energy transfer and more severely by a nonradiative deactivation pathway, to give much low EQE values (<5%). By utilizing 3,6‐2TPA‐TX as a blue emitter and 3,6‐2TPA‐TXO as a yellow emitter, an ever highest EQE of 20.4% is achieved for all‐fluorescence white OLEDs.
3D Cell Printing of Functional Skeletal Muscle Constructs Using Skeletal Muscle‐Derived Bioink
Authors: Choi Yeong‐Jin , Kim Taek Gyoung , Jeong Jonghyeon , Yi Hee‐Gyeong , Park Ji Won , Hwang Woonbong , Cho Dong‐Woo
Published: August 2016

Engineered skeletal muscle tissues that mimic the structure and function of native muscle have been considered as an alternative strategy for the treatment of various muscular diseases and injuries. Here, it is demonstrated that 3D cell‐printing of decellularized skeletal muscle extracellular matrix (mdECM)‐based bioink facilitates the fabrication of functional skeletal muscle constructs. The cellular alignment and the shape of the tissue constructs are controlled by 3D cell‐printing technology. mdECM bioink provides the 3D cell‐printed muscle constructs with a myogenic environment that supports high viability and contractility as well as myotube formation, differentiation, and maturation. More interestingly, the preservation of agrin is confirmed in the mdECM, and significant increases in the formation of acetylcholine receptor clusters are exhibited in the 3D cell‐printed muscle constructs. In conclusion, mdECM bioink and 3D cell‐printing technology facilitate the mimicking of both the structural and functional properties of native muscle and hold great promise for producing clinically relevant engineered muscle for the treatment of muscular injuries.
Plasmonic Colors: Toward Mass Production of Metasurfaces
Authors: Højlund‐Nielsen Emil , Clausen Jeppe , Mäkela Tapio , Thamdrup Lasse Højlund , Zalkovskij Maksim , Nielsen Theodor , Li Pira Nello , Ahopelto Jouni , Mortensen N. Asger , Kristensen Anders
Published: August 2016

Plasmonic metasurface coloration has attracted considerable attention in recent years due to its industrial potential. So far, demonstrations have been limited to small patterned areas fabricated using expensive techniques with limited scalability. This study elevates the technology beyond the common size and volume limitations of nanofabrication and demonstrates aluminum‐coated polymer‐based colored metasurfaces of square‐centimeter size by embossing, injection molding, roll‐to‐roll printing, and film insert molding. Different techniques are compared and the requirements and bottlenecks in terms of master fabrication, replication, metallization, and protection coating for large‐scale production of sub‐wavelength metasurfaces are discussed. Most notably, it is demonstrated that plasmonic metasurface colors are compatible with film insert molding. The results indicate a promising future for plasmonic colors as a viable alternative for decorating mass‐produced polymer parts.
Orange‐Red‐Light‐Emitting Field‐Effect Transistors Based on Phosphorescent Pt(II) Complexes with Area Emission
Authors: Wawrzinek Robert , Muhieddine Khalid , Ullah Mujeeb , Koszo Peter B. , Shaw Paul E. , Grosjean Arnaud , Maasoumi Fatemeh , Stoltzfus Dani M. , Clegg Jack K. , Burn Paul L. , Namdas Ebinazar B. , Lo Shih‐Chun
Published: August 2016

Two new heteroleptic Pt(II) complexes bearing an n‐hexyloxy substituted phenyllepidine‐based ligand and either a picolinate (pic) or acetylacetonate (acac) coligand are synthesized for use in organic light‐emitting field‐effect transistors (LEFETs). Both compounds are obtained in good yields via a short and straightforward synthetic route. It is found that while both Pt(II) complexes show good chemical stability and solubility, the coligand affects the photoluminescence quantum yield and crystal packing of the complexes. Although aggregate induced phosphorescence enhancement is not observed, it is found that high concentrations of the emitters in a poly[bis(4‐phenyl)(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)amine] host lead to improved charge injection in hybrid LEFETs. LEFETs with area emission, high ON/OFF ratios (>106) and mobilities (≈1.3 cm2 V−1 s−1), and external quantum efficiencies of up to 0.1% at the highest brightness of 855 cd m−2 are demonstrated.
Memristors for Energy‐Efficient New Computing Paradigms
Authors: Jeong Doo Seok , Kim Kyung Min , Kim Sungho , Choi Byung Joon , Hwang Cheol Seong
Published: August 2016

In this Review, memristors are examined from the frameworks of both von Neumann and neuromorphic computing architectures. For the former, a new logic computational process based on the material implication is discussed. It consists of several memristors which play roles of combined logic processor and memory, called stateful logic circuit. In this circuit configuration, the logic process flows primarily along a time dimension, whereas in current von Neumann computers it occurs along a spatial dimension. In the stateful logic computation scheme, the energy required for the data transfer between the logic and memory chips can be saved. The non‐volatile memory in this circuit also saves the energy required for the data refresh. Neuromorphic (cognitive) computing refers to a computing paradigm that mimics the human brain. Currently, the neuromorphic or cognitive computing mainly relies on the software emulation of several brain functionalities, such as image and voice recognition utilizing the recently highlighted deep learning algorithm. However, the human brain typically consumes ≈10–20 Watts for selected “human‐like” tasks, which can be currently mimicked by a supercomputer with power consumption of several tens of kilo‐ to megawatts. Therefore, hardware implementation of such brain functionality must be eventually sought for power‐efficient computation. Several fundamental ideas for utilizing the memristors and their recent progresses in these regards are reviewed. Finally, material and processing issues are dealt with, which is followed by the conclusion and outlook of the field. These technical improvements will substantially decrease the energy consumption for futuristic information technology.
In Situ Growth and Characterization of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles within Polyelectrolyte Membranes
Authors: Landers John , Colon‐Ortiz Jonathan , Zong Kenneth , Goswami Anandarup , Asefa Tewodros , Vishnyakov Aleksey , Neimark Alexander V.
Published: August 2016

This study describes a novel approach for the in situ synthesis of metal oxide–polyelectrolyte nanocomposites formed via impregnation of hydrated polyelectrolyte films with binary water/alcohol solutions of metal salts and consecutive reactions that convert metal cations into oxide nanoparticles embedded within the polymer matrix. The method is demonstrated drawing on the example of Nafion membranes and a variety of metal oxides with an emphasis placed on zinc oxide. The in situ formation of nanoparticles is controlled by changing the solvent composition and conditions of synthesis that for the first time allows one to tailor not only the size, but also the nanoparticle shape, giving a preference to growth of a particular crystal facet. The high‐resolution TEM, SEM/EDX, UV‐vis and XRD studies confirmed the homogeneous distribution of crystalline nanoparticles of circa 4 nm and their aggregates of 10–20 nm. The produced nanocomposite films are flexible, mechanically robust and have a potential to be employed in sensing, optoelectronics and catalysis.
Profiling Metal Oxides with Lipids: Magnetic Liposomal Nanoparticles Displaying DNA and Proteins
Authors: Wang Feng , Zhang Xiaohan , Liu Yibo , Lin Zhi Yuan (William) , Liu Biwu , Liu Juewen
Published: August 2016

Metal oxides include many important materials with various surface properties. For biomedical and analytical applications, it is desirable to engineer their biocompatible interfaces. Herein, a phosphocholine liposome (DOPC) and its headgroup dipole flipped counterpart (DOCP) were mixed with ten common oxides. Using the calcein leakage assay, cryo‐TEM, and ζ‐potential measurement, these oxides were grouped into three types. The type 1 oxides (Fe3O4, TiO2, ZrO2, Y2O3, ITO, In2O3, and Mn2O3) form supported bilayers only with DOCP. Type 2 (SiO2) forms supported bilayers only with DOPC; type 3 (ZnO and NiO) are cationic and damage lipid membranes. Magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles were further studied for conjugation of fluorophores, proteins, and DNA to the supported DOCP bilayers via lipid headgroup labeling, covalent linking, or lipid insertion. Delivery of the conjugates to cells and selective DNA hybridization were demonstrated. This work provides a general solution for coating the type 1 oxides with a simple mixing in water, facilitating applications in biosensing, separation, and nanomedicine.
Stereo‐ and Temporally Controlled Coordination Polymerization Triggered by Alternating Addition of a Lewis Acid and Base
Authors: Liu Bo , Cui Dongmei , Tang Tao
Published: August 2016

Significant progress has been made with regard to temporally controlled radical and ring‐opening polymerizations, for example, by means of chemical reagents, light, and voltage, whereas quantitative switch coordination polymerization is still challenging. Herein, we report the temporally and stereocontrolled 3,4‐polymerization of isoprene through allosterically regulating the active metal center by alternating addition of Lewis basic pyridine to “poison” the Lewis acidic active metal species through acid–base interactions and Lewis acidic AliBu3 to release the original active species through pyridine abstraction. This process is quick, quantitative, and can be repeated multiple times while maintaining high 3,4‐selectivity. Moreover, this strategy is also effective for the switch copolymerization of isoprene and styrene with dual 3,4‐ and syndiotactic selectivity. Tuning the switch cycles and intervals enables the isolation of various copolymers with different distributions of 3,4‐polyisoprene and syndiotactic polystyrene sequences.
Virus‐Inspired Polymer for Efficient In Vitro and In Vivo Gene Delivery
Authors: Cheng Yilong , Yumul Roma C. , Pun Suzie H.
Published: August 2016

Clinical translation of nucleic acids drugs has been stunted by limited delivery options. Herein, we report a synthetic polymer designed to mimic viral mechanisms of delivery called VIPER (virus‐inspired polymer for endosomal release). VIPER is composed of a polycation block for condensation of nucleic acids, and a pH‐sensitive block for acid‐triggered display of a lytic peptide to promote trafficking to the cell cytosol. VIPER shows superior efficiencies compared to commercial agents when delivering genes to multiple immortalized cell lines. Importantly, in murine models, VIPER facilitates effective gene transfer to solid tumors.
Microwave Assisted Synthesis of Pyrimidines in Ionic Liquid and Their Potency as Non‐Classical Malarial Antifolates
Authors: Bhatt Jaimin D. , Chudasama Chaitanya J. , Patel Kanuprasad D.
Published: August 2016

Synthesis of pyrazole‐linked triazolo‐pyrimidine hybrids was achieved by employing Biginelli‐type reaction methodology in an ionic liquid (triethylammonium acetate) under microwave irradiation. This method proved to be highly efficient and the ionic liquid employed was found recyclable for up to five consecutive cycles. The synthesized molecules were further screened for their antimalarial efficacy screening out the active scaffolds J15, J18, J21, J24, J27, and J30. The active molecules were evaluated in an enzyme inhibition study against the active Plasmodium falciparum dihydrofolate reductase (Pf‐DHFR), computationally as well as in vitro, demonstrating their potency as DHFR inhibitors. The active entities were also investigated for their oral bioavailability by predicting ADME properties in silico, indicating good bioavailability.
Assembly of New Heterocycles through an Effective Use of Bisaldehydes by Using a Sequential GBB/Ugi Reaction
Authors: Kaur Tanpreet , Gautam Ram Nayan , Sharma Anuj
Published: August 2016

A facile route for the assembly of new bis‐heterocyclic imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3]thiazinyl/benzothiazoyl‐phenyl)benzamide scaffolds through a two‐step Groebke–Blackburn–Bienaymé (GBB)/Ugi reaction sequence is reported, which establishes multiple points of diversity in the final products. The highlights of this procedure are the survival of the aldehyde group following the GBB reaction without the need for additional protection/deprotection steps. Moreover, the reaction is operationally simple, with the absence of any catalyst, and exhibits excellent functional‐group tolerance under minutes of microwave irradiation.
New Types of Planar Chiral [2.2]Paracyclophanes and Construction of One‐Handed Double Helices
Authors: Morisaki Yasuhiro , Sawada Risa , Gon Masayuki , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: August 2016

New types of planar chiral (Rp)‐ and (Sp)‐4,7,12,15‐tetrasubstituted [2.2]paracyclophanes were synthesized from racemic 4,12‐dihydroxy[2.2]paracyclophane as the starting compound. Regioselective dibromination and transformation afforded a series of planar chiral (Rp)‐ and (Sp)‐4,7,12,15‐tetrasubstituted [2.2]paracyclophanes, which can be used as chiral building blocks. In this study, left‐ and right‐handed double helical structures were constructed via chemoselective Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling. The double helical compounds were excellent circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) emitters with large molar extinction coefficients, good photoluminescence quantum efficiencies, and large CPL dissymmetry factors.
A Doubly Zwitterionic Antiaromatic [28]Hexaphyrin Formed upon Deprotonation of 5,20‐Di(N‐methyl‐4‐pyridinium)‐Substituted [28]Hexaphyrin
Authors: Naoda Koji , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: August 2016

A rectangular 5,20‐di(4‐pyridyl) [26]hexaphyrin was reduced with NaBH4 to give the corresponding twisted Möbius aromatic [28]hexaphyrin. Subsequent double N‐methylation gave a dicationic 5,20‐di(N‐methyl‐4‐pyridinium) [28]hexaphyrin, which was converted to a doubly zwitterionic and Hückel antiaromatic [28]hexaphyrin upon deprotonation with sodium methoxide.
Alignment Motion Control for an Automated Human Ear Surgery via Vision‐Servoing
Authors: Gao Wenchao , Liang Wenyu , Tan Kok Kiong
Published: August 2016

To treat a worldwide common ear disease called Otitis Media with Effusion, a robotic device allowing fast and automatic grommet tube insertion has been designed in our earlier works. However, the previous version has to be manually placed close to the tympanic membrane before the insertion procedures. For the purpose of realizing a fully automated surgical process, locating and realizing a suitable insertion path from outside the ear forms a crucial step. It is then desirable to control the working channel to be aligned to the axial direction of auditory canal from the vision channel. In this paper, a fast and robust vision‐based servomechanism is proposed to achieve the planar alignment. To detect and track the region of auditory canal through the image sequences, an image segmentation algorithm based on the phase information and combining with the hough transformation technique is proposed. With the help of Kalman filter, a new look‐and‐move servomechanism can be achieved by utilizing the visual and motion measurements simultaneously, resulting in an effective and robust servoing performance.
Real‐Time Leak Isolation Based on State Estimation with Fitting Loss Coefficient Calibration in a Plastic Pipeline
Authors: Navarro Adrian , Begovich Ofelia , Sánchez Juan , Besancon Gildas
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a leak isolation methodology using a fitting loss coefficient calibration. Two stages are considered for this purpose: First, the equivalent straight length (ESL) is fixed by an model‐base observer designed as an extended Kalman filter. Once the leak is detected, the previous observer is stopped and the second system, based on an algebraic observer, is started with the ESL value fixed by the previous observer. Finally, the estimated leak position is recovered in original coordinates since the observer deal with ESL coordinates. In order to tackle the friction variations problem, the so‐called Swamee‐Jain equation is embedded explicitly, instead of a constant parameter as in other studies. The approach assumes only flow and pressure sensors at the ends of the duct. Experimental results with data obtained from a plastic pipeline prototype are presented to assess the method efficiency.
A Delay‐Dependent Approach to Robust Fast Adaptive Fault Estimation Design for Uncertain Neutral Systems with Time‐Varying Interval Delay
Authors: You Fuqiang , Li Hui , Wang Fuli , Guan Shouping
Published: August 2016

This paper studies the problem of robust fault estimation for neutral systems, which are subjected to uncertainties, actuator fault, time‐varying interval delay, and norm‐bounded external disturbance. Based on the fast adaptive fault estimation (FAFE) algorithm, we focus on the design of a fault estimation filter that guarantees stability in the filtering error system with a prescribed H∞ performance. A novel Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional is employed, which includes time delay information. A delay‐dependent criterion of robust fault estimation design is obtained by employing the free‐weighting matrices technique, and the proposed result has advantages over some existing results, in that it is less conservative and it enlarges the application scope. An improved sufficient condition for the existence of such a filter is proposed in terms of the linear matrix inequality (LMI) by the Schur complements and the cone complementary linearization algorithm. Finally, illustrative examples are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Sensory atypicalities in dyads of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents
Authors: Glod Magdalena , Riby Deborah M. , Honey Emma , Rodgers Jacqui
Published: August 2016

Sensory atypicalities are a common feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To date, the relationship between sensory atypicalities in dyads of children with ASD and their parents has not been investigated. Exploring these relationships can contribute to an understanding of how phenotypic profiles may be inherited, and the extent to which familial factors might contribute towards children's sensory profiles and constitute an aspect of the broader autism phenotype (BAP). Parents of 44 children with ASD and 30 typically developing (TD) children, aged between 3 and 14 years, participated. Information about children's sensory experiences was collected through parent report using the Sensory Profile questionnaire. Information about parental sensory experiences was collected via self‐report using the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile. Parents of children with ASD had significantly higher scores than parents of TD children in relation to low registration, over responsivity, and taste/smell sensory processing. Similar levels of agreement were obtained within ASD and TD parent‐child dyads on a number of sensory atypicalities; nevertheless significant correlations were found between parents and children in ASD families but not TD dyads for sensation avoiding and auditory, visual, and vestibular sensory processing. The findings suggest that there are similarities in sensory processing profiles between parents and their children in both ASD and TD dyads. Familial sensory processing factors are likely to contribute towards the BAP. Further work is needed to explore genetic and environmental influences on the developmental pathways of the sensory atypicalities in ASD. Autism Res 2017, 10: 531–538. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Disruption of visual circuit formation and refinement in a mouse model of autism
Authors: Cheng Ning , Khanbabaei Maryam , Murari Kartikeya , Rho Jong M.
Published: August 2016

Aberrant connectivity is believed to contribute to the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Recent neuroimaging studies have increasingly identified such impairments in patients with ASD, including alterations in sensory systems. However, the cellular substrates and molecular underpinnings of disrupted connectivity remain poorly understood. Utilizing eye‐specific segregation in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) as a model system, we investigated the formation and refinement of precise patterning of synaptic connections in the BTBR T + tf/J (BTBR) mouse model of ASD. We found that at the neonatal stage, the shape of the dLGN occupied by retinal afferents was altered in the BTBR group compared to C57BL/6J (B6) animals. Notably, the degree of overlap between the ipsi‐ and contralateral afferents was significantly greater in the BTBR mice. Moreover, these abnormalities continued into mature stage in the BTBR animals, suggesting persistent deficits rather than delayed maturation of axonal refinement. Together, these results indicate disrupted connectivity at the synaptic patterning level in the BTBR mice, suggesting that in general, altered neural circuitry may contribute to autistic behaviours seen in this animal model. In addition, these data are consistent with the notion that lower‐level, primary processing mechanisms contribute to altered visual perception in ASD. Autism Res 2017, 10: 212–223. © 2016 The Authors Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Autism Research.
Messtechnische Herausforderungen bei der Analyse von hochdynamischen Aufprallbeanspruchungen
Authors: Kühn Tino , Schmitt Daniel , Millon Oliver , Häntzschel Thomas , Stolz Alexander , Curbach Manfred , Thoma Klaus
Published: August 2016

Das Verständnis von Impaktvorgängen auf Stahlbetonstrukturen ist von grundlegender Bedeutung für die Auslegung von Bauwerken in Hinblick auf die Bewertung außergewöhnlicher Belastungssituationen, wie beispielsweise Steinschlag oder aber Fahrzeug‐ oder Flugzeuganprall. Bei hohen Verzerrungsraten, die sich bei derartigen Belastungen im Bauteil einstellen, wird ein anderes Material‐ und Werkstoffverhalten beobachtet als unter quasi‐statischen Einwirkungen. Dieses äußert sich zum Beispiel durch eine Zunahme der Festigkeit bei steigender Verzerrungsrate. Daher ist eine Analyse und Bewertung des Tragverhaltens von Bauteilen unter derartigen Belastungszuständen geboten, um das Tragverhalten auf Material‐ und Bauteilebene zu ermitteln und Tragreserven erkennen zu können. Eine entsprechende Methodik und der Einsatz geeigneter Messtechnik sind dafür essenzielle Voraussetzungen.

Der vorliegende Aufsatz richtet seinen Fokus auf die messtechnischen Methoden und die Herausforderungen bei schnell ablaufenden Belastungsvorgängen. Am Beispiel der experimentellen Untersuchung von Stahlbetonplatten unter Impakt, bei denen Belastungszeiten von wenigen μs und ms auftreten, werden der Versuchsaufbau und die Mess‐ und Analysesysteme in Hinblick auf die Messmethoden und die erzielten Messergebnisse beschrieben. Die Ermittlung von Zeitverläufen bzgl. der Impaktgeschwindigkeit, der Reaktionskräfte, des Verformungsverhaltens sowie auch der Bestimmung von Schallwellengeschwindigkeiten innerhalb des Bauteils erfordert eine entsprechend hohe Abtastrate bei der Signalaufzeichnung. Diese Ergebnisse ermöglichen letztlich eine ganzheitliche Bewertung des Strukturverhaltens und der Schädigungsphänomene.
Stress and Risky Decision Making: Cognitive Reflection, Emotional Learning or Both.
Authors: Simonovic Boban , Stupple Edward J. N. , Gale Maggie , Sheffield David
Published: August 2016

Stressful situations hinder judgement. Effects of stress induced by anticipated public speaking on the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) were examined. The Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) was used to examine the relationship between reflective thinking and IGT performance. The stress manipulation increased blood pressure and was associated with poorer IGT and CRT performance. Stressed participants were slower to avoid the disadvantageous decks. Moreover, CRT scores correlated with optimal deck selections indicating the importance of reflective thinking for good performance on the IGT. These correlations were observed in relatively early trials, which challenges the view that analytic thinking is not important when card contingencies are being learned. Data revealed that IGT performance in healthy individuals is not always optimal; stress levels impair performance. A mediation analysis was consistent with the proposal that the stress manipulation reduced IGT performance by impeding reflective thinking. Thus, reflective processing is an important explanation of IGT performance in healthy populations. It was concluded that more reflective participants appear to learn from the outcomes of their decisions even when stressed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Orange light‐emitting Ca3Mg3(PO4)4:Sm3+ phosphors
Authors: Nair Govind B. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: August 2016

This work reports the photoluminescence properties of Ca3Mg3(PO4)4:Sm3+ phosphors that were synthesized by the combustion method. The phase formation and morphology of the prepared phosphors were analysed by X‐ray diffraction studies and scanning electron microscopy. Ca3Mg3(PO4)4:Sm3+ phosphors give orange light emission when excited by near‐ultraviolet (NUV) and blue light. The photoluminescence characteristics of the as‐prepared phosphors were investigated and their emission spectra showed three peaks due to 4G5/2 → 6H5/2, 4G5/2 → 6H7/2 and 4G5/2 → 6H9/2 transitions. The mechanism responsible for the concentration quenching of luminescence was found to be an electric dipole–dipole interaction. The CIE chromaticity coordinates suggested that the prepared phosphors are potential candidates for orange light‐emitting diodes (LEDs).
Prolidase‐proline dehydrogenase/proline oxidase‐collagen biosynthesis axis as a potential interface of apoptosis/autophagy
Authors: Zareba Ilona , Palka Jerzy
Published: August 2016

Prolidase is a cytosolic imidodipeptidase that specifically splits imidodipeptides with C‐terminal proline or hydroxyproline. The enzyme plays an important role in the recycling of proline from imidodipeptides for resynthesis of collagen and other proline‐containing proteins. The mechanism of prolidase‐dependent regulation of collagen biosynthesis was found at both transcriptional and post‐transcriptional level. The increase in the enzyme activity is due to its phosphorylation on serine/threonine residues. Prolidase‐dependent transcriptional regulation of collagen biosynthesis was found at the level of NF‐κB, known inhibitor of type I collagen gene expression. Proline dehydrogenase/proline oxidase (PRODH/POX) is flavin‐dependent enzyme associated with the inner mitochondrial membrane. The enzyme catalyzes conversion of proline into Δ1‐pyrroline‐5‐carboxylate (P5C), during which reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced, inducing intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. Alternatively, under low glucose stress, PRODH/POX activation produces ATP for energy supply and survival. Of special interest is that PRODH/POX gene is induced by P53 and peroxisome proliferator‐activated gamma receptor (PPARγ). Among down‐regulators of PRODH/POX is an oncogenic transcription factor c‐MYC and miR‐23b*. On the other hand, PRODH/POX suppresses HIF‐1α transcriptional activity, the MAPK pathway, cyclooxygenase‐2, epidermal growth factor receptor and Wnt/b‐catenin signaling. PRODH/POX expression is often down‐regulated in various tumors, limiting mitochondrial proline utilization to P5C. It is accompanied by increased cytoplasmic level of proline. Proline availability for PRODH/POX‐dependent ATP or ROS generation depends on activity of prolidase and utilization of proline in process of collagen biosynthesis. Therefore, Prolidase‐PRODH/POX‐Collagen Biosynthesis axis may represent potential interface that regulate apoptosis and survival. © 2016 BioFactors, 42(4):341–348, 2016
Ubiquinol‐10 supplementation improves autonomic nervous function and cognitive function in chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Fukuda Sanae , Nojima Junzo , Kajimoto Osami , Yamaguti Kouzi , Nakatomi Yasuhito , Kuratsune Hirohiko , Watanabe Yasuyoshi
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefit of oral ubiquinol‐10 supplementation in CFS patients using an open‐label study and a randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled (RCT) study. Twenty patients with CFS were randomly enrolled in an 8‐week open‐label oral ubiquinol‐10 (150 mg ubiquinol‐10/day) study. The patients and the attending physicians were not blinded to the supplementation. Forty‐three patients with CFS were randomly assigned to receive either ubiquinol‐10 (150 mg/day) or placebo every day for 12 weeks. The patients and the attending physicians were blinded to the supplementation, and a total of 31 patients (N = 17 in the ubiquinol group and 14 in the placebo group) completed the study. The beneficial effects of ubiquinol‐10 were observed in the open‐label study we conducted prior to the RCT. The RCT results suggest that supplementation with ubiquinol‐10 for 12 weeks is effective for improving several CFS symptoms. © 2016 BioFactors, 42(4):431–440, 2016
Homooligomeric β3(R)‐valine peptides: Transformation between C14 and C12 helical structures induced by a guest Aib residue
Authors: Vasantha Basavalingappa , George Gijo , Raghothama Srinivasarao , Balaram Padmanabhan
Published: August 2016

Novel helical, structures unprecedented in the chemistry of α‐polypeptides, may be found in polypeptides containing β and γ amino acids. The structural characterization of C12 and C14‐helices in oligo β‐peptides was originally achieved using conformationally constrained cyclic β‐residues. This study explores the conformational characteristics of proteinogenic β3 residues in homooligomeric sequences and addresses the issue of inducing a transition between C14 and C12 helices by the introduction of a guest α‐residue. Folded C14‐helical structures are demonstrated for the nonapeptide Boc‐[β3(R)Val]9‐OMe by NMR methods in CDCl3‐DMSO mixtures, while the peptide was found to be aggregated in CDCl3. The insertion of a guest Aib residue into an oligo‐β‐valine sequence in the octapeptide model Boc‐[(β3(R)Val)3‐Aib‐(β3(R)Val]4‐OMe results in well dispersed NH region in the NMR spectrum indicating folded structures in CDCl3. Structure calculations for both the peptides using NOE distance constraints support a C14 helical structure in the homooligomer which transform into a C12 helix on introduction of the guest Aib residue.
Serum metabolic changes in rats after intragastric administration of dextromethorphan
Authors: Bao Shihui , Zhang Jing , Lin Zixia , Su Ke , Mo Jingjing , Hong Lin , Qian Shuyi , Chen Lianguo , Sun Fa , Wen Congcong , Wu Qing , Hu Lufeng , Lin Guanyang , Wang Xianqin
Published: August 2016

Dextromethorphan is recognized as a substance of abuse around the world. An estimated 3.1 million people between the ages of 12 and 25 years (5.3%) misused over‐the‐counter cough and cold medications in 2006. In this study, we developed a serum metabolomic method by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to evaluate the effect of abuse of dextromethorphan on rats. The dextromethorphan‐treated rats were given 12, 24 and 48 mg/kg (low, medium, high) of dextromethorphan by intragastric administration each day for 3 days. Partial least squares‐discriminate analysis revealed that intragastric administration of dextromethorphan induced metabolic perturbations. Compared with the control (healthy) group, the levels of propanoic acid, urea, heptafluorobutanoic acid, 2‐hexyldecanoic acid and butanedioic acid of the low group decreased; levels of propanoic acid and heptafluorobutanoic acid of the medium group decreased, while that of benzoic acid increased; and levels of 2‐hexyldecanoic acid, glycerol and butanedioic acid of the high group increased. These biomarkers are involved in the citric acid cycle, urea cycle, glycerolipid metabolism and tricarboxylic acid cycle. The results indicate that the metabolomic method by GC–MS may be useful to elucidate abuse of dextromethorphan. According to the pathological changes in the liver at different dosages, dextromethorphan is not hepatotoxic after intragastric administration of 12, 24 and 48 mg/kg for 3 days.
Analysis of prognostic factors for pancreatic head cancer according to para‐aortic lymph node
Authors: Lin Jian‐yu , Zhang Xing‐mao , Kou Jian‐tiao , Fa Hua , Zhang Xin‐xue , Dai Yang , He Qiang
Published: August 2016

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between prognosis of pancreatic head cancer and status of para‐aortic lymph node (PALN). A total of 233 patients with pancreatic head cancer who underwent surgical resection between February 2008 and October 2015 were enrolled in this study. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to reveal the prognostic factors. Prognostic factors for patients with and without metastasis of PALN were analyzed, respectively. The 5‐year overall survival (OS) rate was 19.0% for all patients, and the positive rate of PALN metastasis was 18.9% (44/233). The 1‐, 2‐, 3‐, and 5‐year OS rates in patients without metastasis of PALN were 79.4%, 54.8%, 36.4%, and 22.9%, respectively, whereas the 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐year survival rates were 54.0%, 14.8%, and 0%, respectively, in patients with metastasis of PALN. Preoperative CA19‐9 level, tumor size, T status, N status, and adjuvant therapy were independent prognostic factors for all patients confirmed by multivariate analysis. For patients without PALN metastasis, back pain, tumor size, T status, N status, portal or superior mesenteric vein invasion, and adjuvant therapy were independent prognostic factors, while the only one influence factor for 2‐year OS was adjuvant therapy for patients with metastasis of PALN. Metastasis of PALN was associated with poor prognosis for patients with pancreatic head cancer. Patients with and without metastasis of PALN had different prognostic factors, and adjuvant therapy was the only prognostic factor for patients with metastasis of PALN.
Lactate Formation in Primary and Metastatic Colon Cancer Cells at Hypoxia and Normoxia
Authors: Graboń Wojciech , Otto‐Ślusarczyk Dagmara , Chrzanowska Alicja , Mielczarek‐Puta Magdalena , Joniec‐Maciejak Ilona , Słabik Krzysztof , Barańczyk‐Kuźma Anna
Published: August 2016

High glucose consumption and lactate synthesis in aerobic glycolysis are a hallmark of cancer cells. They can form lactate also in glutaminolysis, but it is not clear how oxygen availability affects this process. We studied lactate synthesis at various oxygen levels in human primary (SW480) and metastatic (SW620) colon cancer cells cultured with L‐Ser and/or L‐Asp. Glucose and lactate levels were determined colorimetrically, amino acids by HPLC, expression of AST1‐mRNA and AST2‐mRNA by RT‐PCR.

In both lines glucose consumption and lactate synthesis were higher at 10% than at 1% oxygen, and lactate/glucose ratio was increased above 2.0 by L‐Asp.

AST1‐mRNA expression was independent on oxygen and cell line, but AST2‐mRNA was lower at hypoxia in SW480.

We conclude that, in both cell lines at 1% hypoxia, lactate is formed mainly from glucose but at 10% normoxia also from L‐Asp. At 10% normoxia, lactate synthesis is more pronounced in primary than metastatic colon cancer cells.