bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mealybug species from Chilean agricultural landscapes and main factors influencing the genetic structure of Pseudococcus viburni
Authors: Correa Margarita C. G. , Lombaert Eric , Malausa Thibaut , Crochard Didier , Alvear Andrés , Zaviezo Tania , Palero Ferran
Published: November 2015

The present study aimed to characterize the distribution of mealybug species along Chilean agro-ecosystems and to determine the relative impact of host plant, management strategy, geography and micro-environment on shaping the distribution and genetic structure of the obscure mealybugPseudococcus viburni. An extensive survey was completed using DNA barcoding methods to identify Chilean mealybugs to the species level. Moreover, a fine-scale study ofPs. viburnigenetic diversity and population structure was carried out, genotyping 529Ps. viburniindividuals with 21 microsatellite markers. Samples from 16 localities were analyzed using Bayesian and spatially-explicit methods and the genetic dataset was confronted to host-plant, management and environmental data. Chilean crops were found to be infested byPs. viburni, Pseudococcus meridionalis, Pseudococcus longispinusandPlanococcus citri, withPs. viburniandPs. meridionalisshowing contrasting distribution and host-plant preference patterns.Ps. viburnisamples presented low genetic diversity levels but high genetic differentiation. While no significant genetic variance could be assigned to host-plant or management strategy, climate and geography were found to correlate significantly with genetic differentiation levels. The genetic characterization ofPs. viburniwithin Chile will contribute to future studies tracing back the origin and improving the management of this worldwide invader.
Regulation of iron homeostasis by the p53-ISCU pathway
Authors: Funauchi Yuki , Tanikawa Chizu , Yi Lo Paulisally Hau , Mori Jinichi , Daigo Yataro , Takano Atsushi , Miyagi Yohei , Okawa Atsushi , Nakamura Yusuke , Matsuda Koichi
Published: November 2015

Accumulation of iron in tissues increases the risk of cancer, but iron regulatory mechanisms in cancer tissues are largely unknown. Here, we report that p53 regulates iron metabolism through the transcriptional regulation of ISCU (iron-sulfur cluster assembly enzyme), which encodes a scaffold protein that plays a critical role in Fe-S cluster biogenesis. p53 activation induced ISCU expression through binding to an intronic p53-binding site. Knockdown of ISCU enhanced the binding of iron regulatory protein 1 (IRP1), a cytosolic Fe-S protein, to an iron-responsive element in the 5′ UTR of ferritin heavy polypeptide 1 (FTH1) mRNA and subsequently reduced the translation of FTH1, a major iron storage protein. In addition, in response to DNA damage, p53 induced FTH1 and suppressed transferrin receptor, which regulates iron entry into cells. HCT116 p53+/+ cells were resistant to iron accumulation, but HCT116 p53−/− cells accumulated intracellular iron after DNA damage. Moreover, excess dietary iron caused significant elevation of serum iron levels in p53−/− mice. ISCU expression was decreased in the majority of human liver cancer tissues and its reduced expression was significantly associated with p53 mutation. Our finding revealed a novel role of the p53-ISCU pathway in the maintenance of iron homeostasis in hepatocellular carcinogenesis.
Eco-physiological adaptation shapes the response of calcifying algae to nutrient limitation
Authors: Šupraha Luka , Gerecht Andrea C. , Probert Ian , Henderiks Jorijntje
Published: November 2015

The steady increase in global ocean temperature will most likely lead to nutrient limitation in the photic zone. This will impact the physiology of marine algae, including the globally important calcifying coccolithophores. Understanding their adaptive patterns is essential for modelling carbon production in a low-nutrient ocean. We investigated the physiology ofHelicosphaera carteri, a representative of the abundant but under-investigated flagellated functional group of coccolithophores. Two strains isolated from contrasting nutrient regimes (South Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea) were grown in phosphorus-replete and phosphorus-limited batch cultures. While growing exponentially in a phosphorus-replete medium, the Mediterranean strain exhibited on average 24% lower growth rate, 36% larger coccosphere volume and 21% lower particulate inorganic carbon (PIC) production than the Atlantic strain. Under phosphorus limitation, the same strain was capable of reaching a 2.6 times higher cell density than the Atlantic strain due to lower phosphorus requirements. These results suggest that local physiological adaptation can define the performance of this species under nutrient limitation.
Rapid whole genome sequencing of Miyazaki-Bali/2007 Pteropine orthoreovirus by modified rolling circular amplification with adaptor ligation – next generation sequencing
Authors: Singh Harpal , Yoshikawa Tomoki , Kobayashi Takeshi , Fukushi Shuetsu , Tani Hideki , Taniguchi Satoshi , Fukuma Aiko , Yang Ming , Sugamata Masami , Shimojima Masayuki , Saijo Masayuki
Published: November 2015

The emergence of orthoreoviruses as the causative agent of human respiratory illness over the past few years has led to a demand to determine their viral genome sequences. The whole genome sequencing of such RNA viruses using traditional methods, such as Sanger dideoxy sequencing following rapid amplification of cDNA ends presents a laborious challenge due to the numerous preparatory steps required before sequencing can commence. We developed a practical, time-efficient novel combination method capable of reducing the total time required from months to less than a week in the determination of whole genome sequence of Pteropine orthoreoviruses (PRV); through a combination of viral RNA purification and enrichment, adaptor ligation, reverse transcription, cDNA circularization and amplification and next generation sequencing. We propose to call the method “modified rolling circular amplification with adaptor ligation – next generation sequencing (mRCA-NGS)”. Here, we describe the technological focus and advantage of mRCA-NGS and its expansive application, exemplified through the phylogenetic understanding of the Miyazaki-Bali/2007 PRV.
Cofilin 1 activation prevents the defects in axon elongation and guidance induced by extracellular alpha-synuclein
Authors: Tilve Sharada , Difato Francesco , Chieregatti Evelina
Published: November 2015

Impaired adult neurogenesis and axon traumatic injury participate in the severity of neurodegenerative diseases. Alpha-synuclein, a cytosolic protein involved in Parkinson’s disease, may be released from neurons, suggesting a role for excess secreted alpha-synuclein in the onset and spread of the pathology. Here we provide evidence that long term exposure of young neurons to extracellular alpha-synuclein hampers axon elongation and growth cone turning. We show that actin turnover and the rate of movement of actin waves along the axon are altered, due to alpha-synuclein-induced inactivation of cofilin. Upon laser disruption of microfilaments, healing of axons is favored by the increased phosphorylation of cofilin, however, at later time points; the defect in neurite extension prevails, being lost the regulation of cofilin activity. Importantly, overexpression of the active form of cofilin in neurons exposed to alpha-synuclein is able to restore the movement of actin waves, physiological axon elongation and growth cone turning. Our study reveals the molecular basis of alpha-synuclein-driven deficits in growth and migration of newborn neurons and in elongation and regeneration of adult neurons.
Spin Exchange Interaction in Substituted Copper Phthalocyanine Crystalline Thin Films
Authors: Rawat Naveen , Pan Zhenwen , Lamarche Cody J. , Wetherby Anthony , Waterman Rory , Tokumoto Takahisa , Cherian Judy G. , Headrick Randall L. , McGill Stephen A. , Furis Madalina I.
Published: November 2015

The origins of spin exchange in crystalline thin films of Copper Octabutoxy Phthalocyanine (Cu-OBPc) are investigated using Magnetic Circular Dichroism (MCD) spectroscopy. These studies are made possible by a solution deposition technique which produces highly ordered films with macroscopic grain sizes suitable for optical studies. For temperatures lower than 2 K, the contribution of a specific state in the valence band manifold originating from the hybridized lone pair in nitrogen orbitals of the Phthalocyanine ring, bears the Brillouin-like signature of an exchange interaction with the localized d-shell Cu spins. A comprehensive MCD spectral analysis coupled with a molecular field model of a σπ − d exchange analogous to sp-d interactions in Diluted Magnetic Semiconductors (DMS) renders an enhanced Zeeman splitting and a modified g-factor of −4 for the electrons that mediate the interaction. These studies define an experimental tool for identifying electronic states involved in spin-dependent exchange interactions in organic materials.
Electrochemical and Dry Sand Impact Erosion Studies on Carbon Steel
Authors: Naz M. Y. , Ismail N. I. , Sulaiman S. A. , Shukrullah S.
Published: November 2015

This study investigated the dry and aqueous erosion of mild steel using electrochemical and dry sand impact techniques. In dry sand impact experiments, mild steel was eroded with 45 μm and 150 μm sand particles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and micro-hardness techniques were used to elaborate the surface morphology of the eroded samples. The results revealed significant change in morphology of the eroded samples. In-depth analysis showed that although the metal erosion due to larger particles was significantly higher, the fines also notably damaged the metal surface. The surface damages were appreciably reduced with decrease in impact angle of the accelerated particles. The maximum damages were observed at an impact angle of 90°. The hardness of the samples treated with 45 μm and 150 μm sand remained in the range of 88.34 to 102.31 VHN and 87.7 to 97.55 VHN, respectively. In electrochemical experiments, a triple electrode probe was added into the metal treatment process. The linear polarization resistance (LPR) measurements were performed in slurries having 5% (by weight) of sand particles. LPR of the samples treated with 45 μm and 150 μm sand slurries was calculated about 949 Ω.cm2and 809 Ω.cm2, respectively.
Superior removal of arsenic from water with zirconium metal-organic framework UiO-66
Authors: Wang Chenghong , Liu Xinlei , Chen J. Paul , Li Kang
Published: November 2015

In this study, water stable zirconium metal-organic framework (UiO-66) has been synthesized and for the first time applied as an adsorbent to remove aquatic arsenic contamination. The as-synthesized UiO-66 adsorbent functions excellently across a broad pH range of 1 to 10 and achieves a remarkable arsenate uptake capacity of 303 mg/g at the optimal pH, i.e., pH = 2. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest arsenate As(V) adsorption capacity ever reported, much higher than that of currently available adsorbents (5–280 mg/g, generally less than 100 mg/g). The superior arsenic uptake performance of UiO-66 adsorbent could be attributed to the highly porous crystalline structure containing zirconium oxide clusters, which provides a large contact area and plenty of active sites in unit space. Two binding sites within the adsorbent framework are proposed for arsenic species, i.e., hydroxyl group and benzenedicarboxylate ligand. At equilibrium, seven equivalent arsenic species can be captured by one Zr6cluster through the formation of Zr-O-As coordination bonds.
Bt crops benefit natural enemies to control non-target pests
Authors: Tian Jun-Ce , Yao Ju , Long Li-Ping , Romeis Jörg , Shelton Anthony M.
Published: November 2015

Crops producing insecticidal crystal (Cry) proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) control important lepidopteran pests. However, pests such as aphids not susceptible to Cry proteins may require other integrated pest management (IPM) tactics, including biological control. We fed aphids on Bt and non-Bt plants and analyzed the Bt protein residue in aphids and compared the effects of Bt plants and a pyrethroid, lambda-cyhalothrin, on the performance of three natural enemies (predators: Coleomegilla maculata and Eupeodes americanus; parasitoid Aphidius colemani) of the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae. No Bt protein residues in aphids were detected and no significant differences were recorded in the performance of pyrethroid-resistant aphids that fed on Bt broccoli expressing Cry1Ab or Cry1C, or on non-Bt broccoli plants treated or not treated with the pyrethroid. This indicated the aphids were not affected by the Cry proteins or the pyrethroid, thus removing any effect of prey quality. Tri-trophic experiments demonstrated that no C. maculata and E. americanus survived consumption of pyrethroid-treated aphids and that ovipositional behavior of A. colemani was impaired when provided with pyrethroid-treated aphids. In contrast, natural enemies were not affected when fed aphids reared on Bt broccoli, thus demonstrating the safety of these Bt plants for IPM.
Species-specific duplications of NBS-encoding genes in Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima)
Authors: Zhong Yan , Li Yingjun , Huang Kaihui , Cheng Zong-Ming
Published: November 2015

The disease resistance (R) genes play an important role in protecting plants from infection by diverse pathogens in the environment. The nucleotide-binding site (NBS)-leucine-rich repeat (LRR) class of genes is one of the largest R gene families. Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima) is resistant to Chestnut Blight Disease, but relatively little is known about the resistance mechanism. We identified 519 NBS-encoding genes, including 374 NBS-LRR genes and 145 NBS-only genes. The majority of Ka/Ks were less than 1, suggesting the purifying selection operated during the evolutionary history of NBS-encoding genes. A minority (4/34) of Ka/Ks in non-TIR gene families were greater than 1, showing that some genes were under positive selection pressure. Furthermore, Ks peaked at a range of 0.4 to 0.5, indicating that ancient duplications arose during the evolution. The relationship between Ka/Ks and Ks indicated greater selective pressure on the newer and older genes with the critical value of Ks = 0.4–0.5. Notably, species-specific duplications were detected in NBS-encoding genes. In addition, the group of RPW8-NBS-encoding genes clustered together as an independent clade located at a relatively basal position in the phylogenetic tree. Many cis-acting elements related to plant defense responses were detected in promoters of NBS-encoding genes.
Deceleration of single-stranded DNA passing through a nanopore using a nanometre-sized bead structure
Authors: Goto Yusuke , Haga Takanobu , Yanagi Itaru , Yokoi Takahide , Takeda Ken-ichi
Published: November 2015

DNA sequencing with a solid-state nanopore requires a reduction of the translocation speeds of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) over 10 μs/base. In this study, we report that a nanometre-sized bead structure constructed around a nanopore can reduce the moving speed of ssDNA to 270 μs/base by adjusting the diameter of the bead and its surface chemical group. This decelerating effect originates from the strong interaction between ssDNA and the chemical group on the surface of the bead. This nanostructure was simply prepared by dip coating in which a substrate with a nanopore was immersed in a silica bead solution and then dried in an oven. As compared with conventional approaches, our novel method is less laborious, simpler to perform and more effective in reducing ssDNA translocation speed.
Single florescent nanodiamond in a three dimensional ABEL trap
Authors: Kayci Metin , Radenovic Aleksandra
Published: November 2015

Three dimensional single particle trapping and manipulation is an outstanding challenge in various fields ranging from basic physics to life sciences. By monitoring the response of a trapped particle to a designed environment one can extract its characteristics. In addition, quantum dynamics of a spatially scanned well-known particle can provide environmental information. Precise tracking and positioning of such a particle in aqueous environment is crucial task for achieving nano-scale resolution. Here we experimentally demonstrate three dimensional ABEL trap operating at high frequency by employing a hybrid approach in particle tracking. The particle location in the transverse plane is detected via a scanning laser beam while the axial position is determined by defocused imaging. The scanning of the trapped particle is accomplished through a nano positioning stage integrated to the trap platform.
Clinical evaluation of a novel microfluidic device for epitope-independent enrichment of circulating tumour cells in patients with small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chudziak Jakub , Burt Deborah J. , Mohan Sumitra , Rothwell Dominic G. , Mesquita Bárbara , Antonello Jenny , Dalby Suzanne , Ayub Mahmood , Priest Lynsey , Carter Louise , Krebs Matthew G. , Blackhall Fiona , Dive Caroline , Brady Ged
Published: November 2015

Evaluation of a novel microfluidic device for epitope-independent enrichment of circulating tumour cells using clinical samples from patients with SCLC.
Uniaxial magnetic anisotropy of square-planar chromium(ii) complexes revealed by magnetic and HF-EPR studies
Authors: Deng Yi-Fei , Han Tian , Wang Zhenxing , Ouyang Zhongwen , Yin Bing , Zheng Zhiping , Krzystek J. , Zheng Yan-Zhen
Published: November 2015

Two chromium(ii) complexes exhibit single-molecule-magnet behavior due to uniaxial magnetic anisotropy revealed by magnetic and HF-EPR studies.
Metal-free oxidative cyclization of acetophenones with diamines: a facile access to phenylpyridines
Authors: Sharma Rohit , Patel Neha , Vishwakarma Ram A. , Bharatam Prasad V. , Bharate Sandip B.
Published: November 2015

An efficient metal-free access to 2- and 3-phenylpyridines via oxidative coupling of acetophenones with 1,3-diaminopropane has been described.
An electric double layer of colloidal particles in salt-free concentrated suspensions including non-uniform size effects and orientational ordering of water dipoles
Authors: Sin Jun-Sik , Pak Hak-Chol , Kim Kwang-Il , Ri Kuk-Chol , Ju Dok-Yong , Kim Nam-Hyok , Sin Chung-Sik
Published: November 2015

Non-uniform size effects and orientational ordering of water dipoles influence the relative permittivity and electric potential in suspension.
Aerobic selective oxidation of 5-hydroxymethyl-furfural over nitrogen-doped graphene materials with 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-oxyl as co-catalyst
Authors: Lv Guangqiang , Wang Hongliang , Yang Yongxing , Li Xiao , Deng Tiansheng , Chen Chengmeng , Zhu Yulei , Hou Xianglin
Published: November 2015

N-doped graphene materials were preparedviathermal treatment of graphene oxide in flowing NH3, and their catalytic performance was tested in aerobic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethy-furfural.
New insight into the material parameter B to understand the enhanced thermoelectric performance of Mg2Sn1−x−yGexSby
Authors: Liu Weishu , Zhou Jiawei , Jie Qing , Li Yang , Kim Hee Seok , Bao Jiming , Chen Gang , Ren Zhifeng
Published: November 2015

A new generalized material parameterB*, connecting weighted mobility, lattice thermal conductivity, and also the band gap, provides a new insight in pursuing high thermoelectric figure-of-meritZT.
XAFS investigation of polyamidoxime-bound uranyl contests the paradigm from small molecule studies
Authors: Abney C. W. , Mayes R. T. , Piechowicz M. , Lin Z. , Bryantsev V. S. , Veith G. M. , Dai S. , Lin W.
Published: November 2015

XAFS investigation of polyamidoxime-bound uranyl reveals an adjacent μ2-oxo-bridged transition metal, suggesting new routes for adsorbent design in radionuclide separations.
Comparative proteomic profiling of Hodgkin lymphoma cell lines
Authors: Vergara D. , Simeone P. , De Matteis S. , Carloni S. , Lanuti P. , Marchisio M. , Miscia S. , Rizzello A. , Napolitano R. , Agostinelli C. , Maffia M.
Published: November 2015

Classical Hodgkin lymphoma models of T- and B-cell derivation show significant differences in their protein expression profiles.
High performance electrochemical capacitor materials focusing on nickel based materials
Authors: Li Bing , Zheng Mingbo , Xue Huaiguo , Pang Huan
Published: November 2015

Of the two major capacitances contributing to electrochemical storage devices, pseudo-capacitance, which results from the reversible faradaic reactions, can be much higher than the electric double layer capacitance.
An imidazopyrazine-derived anion for lithium conducting electrolyte application
Authors: Niedzicki Leszek , Korczak Jędrzej , Bitner Anna , Bukowska Maria , Szczecinski Przemyslaw
Published: November 2015

Synthesized for the first time, a LiTDPI salt in EC : DMC (1 : 2) was tested as a lithium conducting electrolyte and it showed high ionic conductivity, a high lithium transference number and a good cycling performance.
Inhibitive action of stored olive mill wastewater (OMW) on the corrosion of copper in a NaCl solution
Authors: Masmoudi Mohamed , Rahal Chahla , Abdelhedi Ridha , Khitouni Mohamed , Bouaziz Mohamed
Published: November 2015

Stored OMWs are greatly enriched in phenolic compounds, mainly HT and tyrosol. But, after 4 years the concentrations of these compounds decrease. We find that OMW acts as a mixed-type corrosion inhibitor.
Composites of poly(lactic) acid/thermoplastic polyurethane/mica with compatibilizer: morphology, miscibility and interphase
Authors: Jia Shikui , Wang Zhong , Zhu Yan , Chen LiGui , Fu Lei
Published: November 2015

Relationship between mechanical properties and morphology of poly(lactic) acid (PLA)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)/mica composites.
Realizing semiconductor to metal transition in graphitic ZnO and MoS2 nanocomposite with external electric field
Authors: Wu Weihua , Tang Shaobin , Gu Junjing , Cao Xinrui
Published: November 2015

The graphitic ZnO and MoS2 heterostructures realize the semiconducting to metallic behavior transitions under external electric field.
Smart chemical design incorporating umbelliferone as natural renewable resource toward the preparation of thermally stable thermosets materials based on benzoxazine chemistry
Authors: Rodriguez Arza Carlos , Froimowicz Pablo , Ishida Hatsuo
Published: November 2015

A smart synthetic chemical design incorporating a natural renewable resource, umbelliferone, is presented to synthesize thermoset materials with good thermal properties.
Synthesis and in vitro bioactivity evaluation of new glucose and xylitol ester derivatives of 5-aminosalicylic acid
Authors: Yousefi Samira , Bayat Saadi , Abdul Rahman Mohd Basyaruddin , Ismail Intan Safinar , Saki Elnaz , Abdulmalek Emilia
Published: November 2015

Synthesis,in vitroanti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity evaluations andin silicostudy of monosaccharide derivatives of mesalazine in comparison with parent drug.
Low band-gap weak donor–strong acceptor conjugated polymer for organic solar cell
Authors: Shi Zugui , Hoi Ka Ivy Wong , Wang Xizu , Vijila Chellappan , Wang Fei , Li Gongqiang , Tjiu Weng Weei , Li Jun , Xu Jianwei
Published: November 2015

With an additional weak acceptor, the low band-gap donor–acceptor conjugated polymer displayed a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 5.36%.
Highly dispersible ternary composites with high transparency and ultra low dielectric constants based on hyperbranched polyimide with organosilane termini and cross-linked polyimide with silica
Authors: Kim Seongku , Ando Shinji , Wang Xiaogong
Published: November 2015

Flexible insulating materials that are both thermally and mechanically stable, highly transparent, and have low dielectric constants are highly desirable for electronic applications.
Few-layered ultrathin covalent organic framework membranes for gas separation: a computational study
Authors: Tong Minman , Yang Qingyuan , Ma Qintian , Liu Dahuan , Zhong Chongli
Published: November 2015

This work found that energetic microenvironment controls the separation performance of few-layered 2D-COF membranes for CO2capture.
Regulating the stemness of mesenchymal stem cells by tuning micropattern features
Authors: Wang Xinlong , Nakamoto Tomoko , Dulińska-Molak Ida , Kawazoe Naoki , Chen Guoping
Published: November 2015

The stemness of MSCs was significantly influenced by cell morphogenesis regulated by micropatterns, and was always accompanied with change of nuclear activity and cytoskeleton mediated nanomechanics.
Comparative study on the capacity of a signalised roundabout
Authors: Sun Xiaotong , Ma Wanjing , Huang Wei
Published: November 2015

Traffic signal control at roundabouts is proved to be effective in addressing heavy traffic. However, the applicability of a signalised roundabout, especially compared with a signalised intersection, in terms of capacity has not been investigated. For signalised roundabouts, unsignalised roundabout capacity models including gap‐acceptance theories and regression models are not applicable. This study first introduces a shockwave‐based model to capture the impacts of signals at circulatory lanes on queuing and clearance time of left‐turning vehicles. On this basis, a general signal timing model and a capacity model are developed. A sensitivity analysis is then elaborated to test how temporal and spatial parameters affect the capacity of a signalised roundabout. Capacity comparisons are made among signalised roundabouts, unsignalised roundabouts and signalised intersections. The results show that (i) under high traffic demand, a signalised roundabout outperforms an unsignalised roundabout; (ii) a signalised roundabout achieve higher capacity than a signalised intersection does under certain condition, (iii) but a signalised intersection outperforms a signalised roundabout when optimal cycle length is relatively short (65 seconds in this study), (iv) capacity of a signalised roundabout is very sensitive to the variation of signal parameters, hence care should be taken to design the parameters to ensure high capacity.
Smartphone‐based fatigue detection system using progressive locating method
Authors: Li Zibo , Sun Guangmin , Zhang Fan , Jia Linan , Zheng Kun , Zhao Dequn
Published: November 2015

Smartphone applications became very popular nowadays as they provide useful functionalities to our daily lives over ordinary voice services. They offer a small but powerful computing platform where intelligent algorithms can be coded into some live‐saving products which profoundly impact our daily lifestyles. A mobile fatigue detection system which is proposed in this study is an important life‐saving application running on smartphone. Mobile detection system faces technological challenges such as: (i) embracing relatively low‐resolution images in image recognition; (ii) supporting fast response time given a low‐power CPU in comparison to a desktop computer; and (iii) demanding for high prediction accuracy by light‐weight machine learning algorithms, as the software programs embedded in smartphones is resource constrained. Solutions with respect to indoor facial profiling system which are mainly based on progressive locating method for eye detection are discussed in this study. Acceptable experimental results in terms of eye detection rate and driver fatigue detection in different situations are presented.
Nanopatterning using a simple bilayer lift‐off process by transfer printing based on poly(dimethylsiloxane) templates
Authors: Zheng Dingjie , Dong Dong , Sang Aixia , Zhu Zhengqiaoruo , Zhu Min , Wang Xudi
Published: November 2015

An efficient and versatile method for fabricating nanopatterns by a lift‐off procedure is presented. The method involves an inked technique based on the poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) mould to fabricate a nanopatterned UV‐curable resist as the top‐layer and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) as the underlayer. The minimal residues are left on the PMMA because PDMS absorbs the organic molecules of UV‐curable resist after the transferred step. High O2 reactive ion etching selectivity of the top‐layer to the underlayer is necessary to create the undercut pattern profile that is essential for the stable lift‐off process. The UV‐curable resist shows high etch resistance to O2 plasma and PMMA serves as an underlying resin to create an undercut profile which is essential for the lift‐off process. The etch rates of the PMMA film and UV‐curable resist by O2 plasma were examined as a function of bias voltage under various oxygen conditions during the etching process. To reveal the mechanism of etch resistance, the chemical composition of UV‐curable resist was analysed before and after the O2 plasma etching process by using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. As a result, the periodical patterns were fabricated using this bilayer lift‐off process, which shows great potential in the fabrication of micro/nanodevices and in their applications.
Installation and first operation of the International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility injector at the Rokkasho site
Authors: Gobin Raphael , Bogard Daniel , Bolzon Benoit , Bourdelle Gilles , Chauvin Nicolas , Chel Stéphane , Girardot Patrick , Gomes Adelino , Guiho Patrice , Harrault Francis , Loiseau Denis , Lussignol Yves , Misiara Nicolas , Roger Arnaud , Senée Franck , Valette Matthieu , Cara Philippe , Duglué Daniel , Gex Dominique , Okumura Yoshikazu , Marcos Ayala Juan , Knaster Juan , Marqueta Alvaro , Kasugai Atsushi , O’Hira Shigeru , Shinto Katsuhiro , Takahashi Hiroki
Published: November 2015

The International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility (IFMIF) linear IFMIF prototype accelerator injector dedicated to high intensity deuteron beam production has been designed, built, and tested at CEA/Saclay between 2008 and 2012. After the completion of the acceptance tests at Saclay, the injector has been fully sent to Japan. The re-assembly of the injector has been performed between March and May 2014. Then after the check-out phase, the production of the first proton beam occurred in November 2014. Hydrogen and deuteron beam commissioning is now in progress after having proceeded with the final tests on the entire injector equipment including high power diagnostics. This article reports the different phases of the injector installation pointing out the safety and security needs, as well as the first beam production results in Japan and chopper tests. Detailed operation and commissioning results (with H+ and D+ 100 keV beams) are reported in a second article.
Comparison of different moment-closure approximations for stochastic chemical kinetics
Authors: Schnoerr David , Sanguinetti Guido , Grima Ramon
Published: November 2015

In recent years, moment-closure approximations (MAs) of the chemical master equation have become a popular method for the study of stochastic effects in chemical reaction systems. Several different MA methods have been proposed and applied in the literature, but it remains unclear how they perform with respect to each other. In this paper, we study the normal, Poisson, log-normal, and central-moment-neglect MAs by applying them to understand the stochastic properties of chemical systems whose deterministic rate equations show the properties of bistability, ultrasensitivity, and oscillatory behaviour. Our results suggest that the normal MA is favourable over the other studied MAs. In particular, we found that (i) the size of the region of parameter space where a closure gives physically meaningful results, e.g., positive mean and variance, is considerably larger for the normal closure than for the other three closures, (ii) the accuracy of the predictions of the four closures (relative to simulations using the stochastic simulation algorithm) is comparable in those regions of parameter space where all closures give physically meaningful results, and (iii) the Poisson and log-normal MAs are not uniquely defined for systems involving conservation laws in molecule numbers. We also describe the new software package MOCA which enables the automated numerical analysis of various MA methods in a graphical user interface and which was used to perform the comparative analysis presented in this paper. MOCA allows the user to develop novel closure methods and can treat polynomial, non-polynomial, as well as time-dependent propensity functions, thus being applicable to virtually any chemical reaction system.
First results on Ge resonant laser photoionization in hollow cathode lamp
Authors: Scarpa Daniele , Barzakh Anatoly , Fedorov Dmitry , Andrighetto Alberto , Mariotti Emilio , Nicolosi Piergiorgio , Tomaselli Alessandra
Published: November 2015

In the framework of the research and development activities of the SPES project regarding the optimization of the radioactive beam production, a dedicated experimental study has been recently started in order to investigate the possibility of in-source ionization of germanium using a set of tunable dye lasers. Germanium is one of the beams to be accelerated by the SPES ISOL facility, which is under construction at Legnaro INFN Laboratories. The three-step, two color ionization schemes have been tested using a Ge hollow cathode lamp. The slow and the fast optogalvanic signals were detected and averaged by an oscilloscope as a proof of the laser ionization inside the lamp. As a result, several wavelength scans across the resonances of ionization schemes were collected with the fast optogalvanic signal. Some comparisons of ionization efficiency for different ionization schemes were made. Furthermore, saturation curves of the first excitation transitions have been obtained. This investigation method and the setup built in the laser laboratory of the SPES project can be applied for the photo-ionization scheme studies also for the other possible radioactive elements.
Fast cooling for a system of stochastic oscillators
Authors: Chen Yongxin , Georgiou Tryphon T. , Pavon Michele
Published: November 2015

We study feedback control of coupled nonlinear stochastic oscillators in a force field. We first consider the problem of asymptotically driving the system to a desired steady state corresponding to reduced thermal noise. Among the feedback controls achieving the desired asymptotic transfer, we find that the most efficient one from an energy point of view is characterized by time-reversibility. We also extend the theory of Schrödinger bridges to this model, thereby steering the system in finite time and with minimum effort to a target steady-state distribution. The system can then be maintained in this state through the optimal steady-state feedback control. The solution, in the finite-horizon case, involves a space-time harmonic function φ, and −logφ plays the role of an artificial, time-varying potential in which the desired evolution occurs. This framework appears extremely general and flexible and can be viewed as a considerable generalization of existing active control strategies such as macromolecular cooling. In the case of a quadratic potential, the results assume a form particularly attractive from the algorithmic viewpoint as the optimal control can be computed via deterministic matricial differential equations. An example involving inertial particles illustrates both transient and steady state optimal feedback control.
Free electron laser-driven ultrafast rearrangement of the electronic structure in Ti
Authors: Principi E. , Giangrisostomi E. , Cucini R. , Bencivenga F. , Battistoni A. , Gessini A. , Mincigrucci R. , Saito M. , Di Fonzo S. , D'Amico F. , Di Cicco A. , Gunnella R. , Filipponi A. , Giglia A. , Nannarone S. , Masciovecchio C.
Published: November 2015

High-energy density extreme ultraviolet radiation delivered by the FERMI seeded free-electron laser has been used to create an exotic nonequilibrium state of matter in a titanium sample characterized by a highly excited electron subsystem at temperatures in excess of 10 eV and a cold solid-density ion lattice. The obtained transient state has been investigated through ultrafast absorption spectroscopy across the Ti M2,3-edge revealing a drastic rearrangement of the sample electronic structure around the Fermi level occurring on a time scale of about 100 fs.
Molecular beam epitaxy growth and magnetic properties of Cr-Co-Ga Heusler alloy films
Authors: Feng Wuwei , Wang Weihua , Zhao Chenglong , Van Quang Nguyen , Cho Sunglae , Dung Dang Duc
Published: November 2015

We have re-investigated growth and magnetic properties of Cr2CoGa films using molecular beam epitaxy technique. Phase separation and precipitate formation were observed experimentally again in agreement with observation of multiple phases separation in sputtered Cr2CoGa films by M. Meinert et al. However, significant phase separation could be suppressed by proper control of growth conditions. We showed that Cr2CoGa Heusler phase, rather than Co2CrGa phase, constitutes the majority of the sample grown on GaAs(001) at 450 oC. The measured small spin moment of Cr2CoGa is in agreement with predicted HM-FCF nature; however, its Curie temperature is not as high as expected from the theoretical prediction probably due to the off-stoichiometry of Cr2CoGa and the existence of the disorders and phase separation.
General Relativity in Australian Newspapers: The 1919 and 1922 Solar Eclipse Expeditions
Authors: Treschman Keith John
Published: November 2015

In 1922 there was a total solar eclipse with the central track traversing the Australian continent from Western Australia, through South Australia and across Queensland. Local and overseas astronomers mounted major observing campaigns to verify the amount of gravitational light bending predicted by the Theory of General Relativity. This paper looks at how the media reported the results from previous expeditions in 1919,whichwere conducted by the British, and the necessity for the 1922 measurements in Australia. It was this latter local eclipse that was the impetus for Australian correspondents to report on General Relativity. In general, the Australian newspapers chronicled informatively and accurately, they provided a good coverage of the eclipse parties and stressed the significance of the 1922 investigations.
Additional keywords: 1919 eclipse, 1922 eclipse, Australian newspapers, Australian public, General Relativity, gravitational deflection, gravitational redshift, Mercury anomaly.
Revision of Pycnandra subgenus Leptostylis and description of subgenus Wagapensia (Sapotaceae), a genus endemic to New Caledonia
Authors: Munzinger Jérôme , Swenson Ulf
Published: November 2015

The genus Pycnandra Benth. (Sapotaceae, Chrysophylloideae) is endemic to New Caledonia with 66 known species and is subdivided in six subgenera. We have earlier revised four of these subgenera and here continue with P. subgenus Leptostylis and describe P. subgenus Wagapensia. Subgenus Leptostylis is distinguished mainly by its opposite leaves and four sepals, and includes eight species, of which two are described as new (P. amplexicaulis and P. sclerophylla). Two species, P. longiflora and P. micrantha, are assumed extinct because extensive fieldwork has not been able to relocate the plants. Variation in leaf morphology was observed in Leptostylis gatopensis, which is by consequence considered as synonym of Pycnandra filipes. Two additional taxa belong to this subgenus, but cannot presently be described because sufficient fertile material is unavailable. Subgenus Wagapensia is monotypic and readily distinguished on the basis of its subverticillate leaves and leafy shoots usually borne beneath apical clusters of leaves, a character common in Sapotaceae but unique in Pycnandra. The members of P. subgenus Leptostylis occur mainly in maquis vegetation or sclerophyllous forests on ultramafic soil, but three taxa are confined to calcareous areas. Mining activities in New Caledonian ultramafic areas are extensive and because some of these species are naturally rare, IUCN Red List assessments are provided to all species. Pycnandra grandifolia and P. wagapensis are assigned the IUCN status Vulnerable, P. amplexicaulis and P. sclerophylla are considered Endangered, P. filipes subspecies multiflora and P. goroensis are considered to be Critically Endangered, whereas P. micrantha and P. longiflora appear to be extinct.
Electrochemical evidence that pyranopterin redox chemistry controls the catalysis of YedY, a mononuclear Mo enzyme
Authors: Adamson Hope , Simonov Alexandr N. , Kierzek Michelina , Rothery Richard A. , Weiner Joel H. , Bond Alan M. , Parkin Alison
Published: November 2015

Significance

The mononuclear Mo enzymes are ubiquitous throughout life, and the notion that their activity arises from Mo(VI/V/IV) redox cycling is a central dogma of bioinorganic chemistry. We prove that YedY, a structurally simple mononuclear Mo enzyme, operates via a strikingly different mechanism: the catalytically active state is generated from addition of three electrons and three protons to the Mo(V) form of the enzyme, suggesting for the first time (to our knowledge) that organic-ligand–based electron transfer reactions at the pyranopterin play a role in catalysis. We showcase Fourier-transformed alternating-current voltammetry as a technique with powerful utility in metalloenzyme studies, allowing the simultaneous measurement of redox catalysis and the underlying electron transfer reactions.
An extracatalytic function of CD45 in B cells is mediated by CD22
Authors: Coughlin Sarah , Noviski Mark , Mueller James L. , Chuwonpad Ammarina , Raschke William C. , Weiss Arthur , Zikherman Julie
Published: November 2015

Significance

Signaling through antigen receptors is essential for lymphocyte development, survival, and function. The receptor-like tyrosine phosphatase CD45 plays a critical role in these processes by regulating antigen receptor signaling via its cytosolic phosphatase domain. Despite its abundance, the function of the large, alternatively spliced extracellular domain of CD45 has remained elusive. We used CD45 transgenes either incorporating a phosphatase-inactivating point mutation or lacking the cytoplasmic domain to uncouple the enzymatic and noncatalytic functions of CD45. Both transgenes partially rescue the phenotype of CD45-deficient B cells by modulating the B cell inhibitory surface coreceptor CD22. These data demonstrate an in vivo function for the extracellular domain of CD45 in restraining CD22 inhibitory function to maintain tonic B-cell antigen receptor signaling.
A Tale of Two Axolotls
Authors: Voss S. Randal , Woodcock M. Ryan , Zambrano Luis
Published: November 2015

The Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is an icon of culture, a revered aquarium pet, and a highly valued animal model in biomedical research. Unfortunately, Mexican axolotls are critically endangered in their natural Xochimilco habitat in Mexico City. If axolotls go extinct, current efforts to conserve the Xochimilico ecosystem will be undermined, as will efforts to genetically manage the laboratory populations that are needed to sustain research efforts around the world. A concerted global effort is needed to protect and manage this irreplaceable species in natural and laboratory environments.
Superior Effectiveness of Zidovudine Compared With Tenofovir When Combined With Nevirapine-based Antiretroviral Therapy in a Large Nigerian Cohort
Authors: Scarsi Kimberly K. , Eisen Geoffrey , Darin Kristin M. , Meloni Seema T. , Rawizza Holly E. , Tchetgen Tchetgen Eric J. , Agbaji Oche O. , Onwujekwe Daniel I. , Gashau Wadzani , Nkado Reuben , Okonkwo Prosper , Murphy Robert L. , Kanki Phyllis J.
Published: November 2015

Background.  Despite sparse efficacy data, tenofovir–emtricitabine or tenofovir–lamivudine plus nevirapine is used in many resource-constrained settings.

Methods.  This retrospective cohort study included patients initiating nevirapine-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) with either tenofovir–emtricitabine or lamivudine (tenofovir group) or zidovudine–lamivudine (zidovudine group). Clinical, virologic, and immunologic evaluations were performed at baseline and every 6 months. Virologic failure was defined as 2 consecutive human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-RNA values >1000 copies/mL. Patients were included from ART initiation until time of failure, regimen switch, discontinuation, or last HIV-RNA measurement. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to model factors influencing time to failure. Bias due to dependent censoring was investigated via inverse probability weighted pooled logistic regression.

Results.  A total of 5547 patients were evaluated; 1484 (26.8%) were in the tenofovir group and 4063 (73.2%) were in the zidovudine group. In the adjusted model, tenofovir regimen (hazard ratio [HR], 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21–1.79) and higher baseline log10 HIV-RNA (HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.03–1.28) were associated with virologic failure. Higher baseline log10 CD4+ cell count (HR, 0.50; 95% CI, .40–.63) and increasing age (HR, 0.98; 95% CI, .97–.99) decreased the risk of virologic failure. Inverse probability weighting results were consistent with the primary analysis.

Conclusions.  Compared with zidovudine–lamivudine, the use of tenofovir–lamivudine or emtricitabine in combination with nevirapine was a strong predictor of virologic failure in our cohort, which was not explained by other risk factors or criteria for regimen selection.
Extranodal Rosai–Dorfman Disease of the Orbit: Clinical Features of 8 Cases
Authors: Tan Jeffrey J. , Narang Sherry , Purewal Baljeet , Langer Paul D. , Blaydon Sean , Schwarcz Robert M. , McCormick Steven A. , Kim Joon Y. , Walrath Joseph D. , Burt Benjamin O. , Shinder Roman
Published: November 2015

Purpose:

To report on the presentation, radiography, histology, and treatment of 8 cases of extranodal Rosai–Dorfman disease involving the orbit.

Methods:

Multicenter retrospective case series.

Results:

Five males and 3 females had a median age of 10 years (range 2–78 years). Presenting signs and symptoms included proptosis, periorbital pain, palpable mass, blepharoptosis, decreased vision, diplopia, impaired extraocular motility, and afferent pupillary defect. Four patients had bilateral orbital disease, while 4 had unilateral disease. Six cases were extraconal, 1 was intraconal, and 1 was both intra- and extra-conal. Four cases had only extranodal disease without lymphadenopathy (3 of which had localized orbital disease). Diagnosis was confirmed by exam, orbital, and/or systemic radiography, and biopsy in all cases. Treatment strategies included excision or debulking, systemic corticosteroids, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, observation or a combination thereof. At last follow up, 4 patients were disease free, while 4 had residual improved disease.

Conclusions:

Rosai–Dorfman disease of the orbit is a rare clinical entity. Purely extranodal disease is rare, with isolated orbital disease being exceedingly rare. This study is unique in that 4 of 8 patients had strictly isolated extranodal disease of the orbit. A large majority of the cases had disease in the extraconal space, contrasting with previous reports. In addition, lacrimal gland disease, particularly bilateral involvement, was prominent in the current study. Although there is no consensus on treatment, surgical excision should be attempted if plausible in symptomatic patients especially if the orbit represents a localized site of disease.
Severe Respiratory Failure Due to Interferon Beta-Related Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Piroddi Ines Maria Grazia , Barlascini Cornelius , Nicolini Antonello
Published: November 2015

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is an uncommon but devastating disease. There is increasing evidence of a correlation between interferon (IFN) use and PAH. Very few cases of PAH in patients treated with IFN are reported in literature. We report a case of a 47-year-old woman with previous diagnosis of multiple sclerosis treated with IFN β-1a for 6 years, presenting severe respiratory failure (paO2/FiO2 228) because of pulmonary hypertension. The suspension of the drug along with the treatment of PAH improved the clinical picture allowing cessation of oxygen administration. Pathophysiological effects of IFN on endothelial vascular cells are discussed.