bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydraulic hydrogel actuators and robots optically and sonically camouflaged in water
Authors: Yuk Hyunwoo , Lin Shaoting , Ma Chu , Takaffoli Mahdi , Fang Nicolas X. , Zhao Xuanhe
Published: February 2017

Sea animals such as leptocephali develop tissues and organs composed of active transparent hydrogels to achieve agile motions and natural camouflage in water. Hydrogel-based actuators that can imitate the capabilities of leptocephali will enable new applications in diverse fields. However, existing hydrogel actuators, mostly osmotic-driven, are intrinsically low-speed and/or low-force; and their camouflage capabilities have not been explored. Here we show that hydraulic actuations of hydrogels with designed structures and properties can give soft actuators and robots that are high-speed, high-force, and optically and sonically camouflaged in water. The hydrogel actuators and robots can maintain their robustness and functionality over multiple cycles of actuations, owing to the anti-fatigue property of the hydrogel under moderate stresses. We further demonstrate that the agile and transparent hydrogel actuators and robots perform extraordinary functions including swimming, kicking rubber-balls and even catching a live fish in water.
Superresolution Imaging Identifies That Conventional Trafficking Pathways Are Not Essential for Endoplasmic Reticulum to Outer Mitochondrial Membrane Protein Transport
Authors: Salka Kyle , Bhuvanendran Shivaprasad , Wilson Kassandra , Bozidis Petros , Mehta Mansi , Rainey Kristin , Sesaki Hiromi , Patterson George H. , Jaiswal Jyoti K. , Colberg-Poley Anamaris M.
Published: February 2017

Most nuclear-encoded mitochondrial proteins traffic from the cytosol to mitochondria. Some of these proteins localize at mitochondria-associated membranes (MAM), where mitochondria are closely apposed with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We have previously shown that the human cytomegalovirus signal-anchored protein known as viral mitochondria-localized inhibitor of apoptosis (vMIA) traffics from the ER to mitochondria and clusters at the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM). Here, we have examined the host pathways by which vMIA traffics from the ER to mitochondria and clusters at the OMM. By disruption of phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein 2 (PACS-2), mitofusins (Mfn1/2), and dynamin related protein 1 (Drp1), we find these conventional pathways for ER to the mitochondria trafficking are dispensable for vMIA trafficking to OMM. Instead, mutations in vMIA that change its hydrophobicity alter its trafficking to mitochondria. Superresolution imaging showed that PACS-2- and Mfn-mediated membrane apposition or hydrophobic interactions alter vMIA’s ability to organize in nanoscale clusters at the OMM. This shows that signal-anchored MAM proteins can make use of hydrophobic interactions independently of conventional ER-mitochondria pathways to traffic from the ER to mitochondria. Further, vMIA hydrophobic interactions and ER-mitochondria contacts facilitate proper organization of vMIA on the OMM.
Genomic variants in mouse model induced by azoxymethane and dextran sodium sulfate improperly mimic human colorectal cancer
Authors: Pan Qingfei , Lou Xiaomin , Zhang Ju , Zhu Yinghui , Li Fuqiang , Shan Qiang , Chen Xianwei , Xie Yingying , Su Siyuan , Wei Hanfu , Lin Liang , Wu Lin , Liu Siqi
Published: February 2017

Mouse model induced by azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) is generally accepted as an ideal object to study on the carcinogenesis mechanisms of human colorectal cancer (CRC). The genomic responses to the AOM/DSS treatment in mouse that possibly lead to elucidation of CRC pathological mechanism are still poorly understood. For the first time, we investigated the cancer genome landscape of AOM/DSS mouse model by exome sequencing, to testify its molecular faithfulness to human CRC. Of 14 neoplastic samples, 7575 somatic variants were identified, which resulted in 2507 mutant genes and exhibited a large diversity in both colorectal aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and tumors even those tissues that were gained from the similar morphology or same treatment period. Cross-species comparison of the somatic variants demonstrated the totally different patterns of variable sites, mutant genes and perturbed pathways between mouse and human CRC. We therefore come to a conclusion that the tumorigenesis at genomic level in AOM/DSS model may not be properly comparable with that in human CRC, and the molecular mechanism elicited from this animal model should be carefully evaluated.
Si-rich Silicon Nitride for Nonlinear Signal Processing Applications
Authors: Lacava Cosimo , Stankovic Stevan , Khokhar Ali Z. , Bucio T. Dominguez , Gardes F. Y. , Reed Graham T. , Richardson David J. , Petropoulos Periklis
Published: February 2017

Nonlinear silicon photonic devices have attracted considerable attention thanks to their ability to show large third-order nonlinear effects at moderate power levels allowing for all-optical signal processing functionalities in miniaturized components. Although significant efforts have been made and many nonlinear optical functions have already been demonstrated in this platform, the performance of nonlinear silicon photonic devices remains fundamentally limited at the telecom wavelength region due to the two photon absorption (TPA) and related effects. In this work, we propose an alternative CMOS-compatible platform, based on silicon-rich silicon nitride that can overcome this limitation. By carefully selecting the material deposition parameters, we show that both of the device linear and nonlinear properties can be tuned in order to exhibit the desired behaviour at the selected wavelength region. A rigorous and systematic fabrication and characterization campaign of different material compositions is presented, enabling us to demonstrate TPA-free CMOS-compatible waveguides with low linear loss (~1.5 dB/cm) and enhanced Kerr nonlinear response (Re{γ} = 16 Wm−1). Thanks to these properties, our nonlinear waveguides are able to produce a π nonlinear phase shift, paving the way for the development of practical devices for future optical communication applications.
Succinate ester derivative of δ-tocopherol enhances the protective effects against 60Co γ-ray-induced hematopoietic injury through granulocyte colony-stimulating factor induction in mice
Authors: Li Zhong-Tang , Wang Li-Mei , Yi Li-Rong , Jia Chao , Bai Fan , Peng Ren-Jun , Yu Zu-Yin , Xiong Guo-Lin , Xing Shuang , Shan Ya-Jun , Yang Ri-Fang , Dong Jun-Xing , Cong Yu-Wen
Published: February 2017

α-tocopherol succinate (α-TOS), γ-tocotrienol (GT3) and δ-tocotrienol (DT3) have drawn large attention due to their efficacy as radioprotective agents. α-TOS has been shown to act superior to α-tocopherol (α-TOH) in mice by reducing lethality following total body irradiation (TBI). Because α-TOS has been shown to act superior to α-tocopherol (α-TOH) in mice by reducing lethality following total body irradiation (TBI), we hypothesized succinate may be contribute to the radioprotection of α-TOS. To study the contributions of succinate and to identify stronger radioprotective agents, we synthesized α-, γ- and δ-TOS. Then, we evaluated their radioprotective effects and researched further mechanism of δ-TOS on hematological recovery post-irradiation. Our results demonstrated that the chemical group of succinate enhanced the effects of α-, γ- and δ-TOS upon radioprotection and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) induction, and found δ-TOS a higher radioprotective efficacy at a lower dosage. We further found that treatment with δ-TOS ameliorated radiation-induced pancytopenia, augmenting cellular recovery in bone marrow and the colony forming ability of bone marrow cells in sublethal irradiated mice, thus promoting hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell recovery following irradiation exposure. δ-TOS appears to be an attractive radiation countermeasure without known toxicity, but further exploratory efficacy studies are still required.
Impact of the use of an endorectal coil for 3 T prostate MRI on image quality and cancer detection rate
Authors: Gawlitza Josephin , Reiss-Zimmermann Martin , Thörmer Gregor , Schaudinn Alexander , Linder Nicolas , Garnov Nikita , Horn Lars-Christian , Minh Do Hoang , Ganzer Roman , Stolzenburg Jens-Uwe , Kahn Thomas , Moche Michael , Busse Harald
Published: February 2017

This work aims to assess the impact of an additional endorectal coil on image quality and cancer detection rate within the same patients. At a single academic medical center, this transversal study included 41 men who underwent T2- and diffusion-weighted imaging at 3 T using surface coils only or in combination with an endorectal coil in the same session. Two blinded readers (A and B) randomly evaluated all image data in separate sessions. Image quality with respect to localization and staging was rated on a five-point scale. Lesions were classified according to their prostate imaging reporting and data system (PIRADS) score version 1. Standard of reference was provided by whole-mount step-section analysis. Mean image quality scores averaged over all localization-related items were significantly higher with additional endorectal coil for both readers (p < 0.001), corresponding staging-related items were only higher for reader B (p < 0.001). With an endorectal coil, the rate of correctly detecting cancer per patient was significantly higher for reader B (p < 0.001) but not for reader A (p = 0.219). The numbers of histologically confirmed tumor lesions were rather similar for both settings. The subjectively rated 3-T image quality was improved with an endorectal coil. In terms of diagnostic performance, the use of an additional endorectal coil was not superior.
High-throughput screen detects calcium signaling dysfunction in typical sporadic autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Schmunk Galina , Nguyen Rachel L. , Ferguson David L. , Kumar Kenny , Parker Ian , Gargus J. Jay
Published: February 2017

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders without any defined uniting pathophysiology. Ca2+ signaling is emerging as a potential node in the genetic architecture of the disorder. We previously reported decreased inositol trisphosphate (IP3)-mediated Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum in several rare monogenic syndromes highly comorbid with autism – fragile X and tuberous sclerosis types 1 and 2 syndromes. We now extend those findings to a cohort of subjects with sporadic ASD without any known mutations. We developed and applied a high throughput Fluorometric Imaging Plate Reader (FLIPR) assay to monitor agonist-evoked Ca2+ signals in human primary skin fibroblasts. Our results indicate that IP3 -mediated Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum in response to activation of purinergic receptors is significantly depressed in subjects with sporadic as well as rare syndromic forms of ASD. We propose that deficits in IP3-mediated Ca2+ signaling represent a convergent hub function shared across the spectrum of autistic disorders – whether caused by rare highly penetrant mutations or sporadic forms – and holds promise as a biomarker for diagnosis and novel drug discovery.
Brain networks involved in tactile speed classification of moving dot patterns: the effects of speed and dot periodicity
Authors: Yang Jiajia , Kitada Ryo , Kochiyama Takanori , Yu Yinghua , Makita Kai , Araki Yuta , Wu Jinglong , Sadato Norihiro
Published: February 2017

Humans are able to judge the speed of an object’s motion by touch. Research has suggested that tactile judgment of speed is influenced by physical properties of the moving object, though the neural mechanisms underlying this process remain poorly understood. In the present study, functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to investigate brain networks that may be involved in tactile speed classification and how such networks may be affected by an object’s texture. Participants were asked to classify the speed of 2-D raised dot patterns passing under their right middle finger. Activity in the parietal operculum, insula, and inferior and superior frontal gyri was positively related to the motion speed of dot patterns. Activity in the postcentral gyrus and superior parietal lobule was sensitive to dot periodicity. Psycho-physiological interaction (PPI) analysis revealed that dot periodicity modulated functional connectivity between the parietal operculum (related to speed) and postcentral gyrus (related to dot periodicity). These results suggest that texture-sensitive activity in the primary somatosensory cortex and superior parietal lobule influences brain networks associated with tactually-extracted motion speed. Such effects may be related to the influence of surface texture on tactile speed judgment.
Molecular, morphological and survival analysis of 177 resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs): Identification of prognostic subtypes
Authors: Schlitter Anna Melissa , Segler Angela , Steiger Katja , Michalski Christoph W. , Jäger Carsten , Konukiewitz Björn , Pfarr Nicole , Endris Volker , Bettstetter Markus , Kong Bo , Regel Ivonne , Kleeff Jörg , Klöppel Günter , Esposito Irene
Published: February 2017

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has generally a poor prognosis, but recent data suggest that there are molecular subtypes differing in clinical outcome. This study examines the association between histopathologic heterogeneity, genetic profile, and survival. Tumor histology from 177 resected PDAC patients with follow-up data was subclassified according to predominant growth pattern, and four key genes were analyzed. PDACs were classified as conventional (51%), combined with a predominant component (41%), variants and special carcinomas (8%). Patients with combined PDACs and a dominant cribriform component survived longer than patients with conventional or other combined PDACs. Genetic alterations in at least two out of four genes were found in 95% of the patients (KRAS 93%, TP53 79%, CDKN2A/p16 75%, SMAD4 37%). Patients with less than four mutations survived significantly longer (p = 0.04) than those with alterations in all four genes. Patients with either wildtype KRAS or CDKN2A/p16 lived significantly longer than those with alterations in these genes (p = 0.018 and p = 0.006, respectively). Our data suggest that the number of altered genes, the mutational status of KRAS and certain morphological subtypes correlate with the outcome of patients with PDAC. Future pathology reporting of PDAC should therefore include the KRAS status and a detailed morphological description.
Enhancing gene regulatory network inference through data integration with markov random fields
Authors: Banf Michael , Rhee Seung Y.
Published: February 2017

A gene regulatory network links transcription factors to their target genes and represents a map of transcriptional regulation. Much progress has been made in deciphering gene regulatory networks computationally. However, gene regulatory network inference for most eukaryotic organisms remain challenging. To improve the accuracy of gene regulatory network inference and facilitate candidate selection for experimentation, we developed an algorithm called GRACE (Gene Regulatory network inference ACcuracy Enhancement). GRACE exploits biologicala prioriand heterogeneous data integration to generate high- confidence network predictions for eukaryotic organisms using Markov Random Fields in a semi-supervised fashion. GRACE uses a novel optimization scheme to integrate regulatory evidence and biological relevance. It is particularly suited for model learning with sparse regulatory gold standard data. We show GRACE’s potential to produce high confidence regulatory networks compared to state of the art approaches usingDrosophila melanogasterandArabidopsis thalianadata. In anA. thalianadevelopmental gene regulatory network, GRACE recovers cell cycle related regulatory mechanisms and further hypothesizes several novel regulatory links, including a putative control mechanism of vascular structure formation due to modifications in cell proliferation.
High prevalence of toxigenic Clostridium difficile in public space lawns in Western Australia
Authors: Moono Peter , Lim Su Chen , Riley Thomas V.
Published: February 2017

Clostridium difficileis a well-established hospital pathogen. Recently, it has been detected increasingly in patients without hospital contact. Given this rise in community associated infections withC. difficile, we hypothesized that the environment could play an important role in transmission of spores outside the hospital. Lawn samples (311) collected in public spaces in the metropolitan area of Perth, Western Australia, from February to June 2016 were cultured forC. difficile. C. difficilewas isolated from the samples by direct and enrichment culture, and characterized by standard molecular methods using toxin gene PCR and ribotyping. The overall prevalence ofC. difficilewas 59%, new lawn (≤4 months old) was twice as likely as old lawn (>4 months old) to test positive (OR = 2.3; 95%CI 1.16–4.57,p = 0.015) and 35 C. difficileribotypes were identified with toxigenic ribotype 014/020 (39%) predominating. The highest viable count from lawn soil samples was 1200 CFU/g. These results show that lawns in Perth, Western Australia, harbor toxigenicC. difficile, an important finding. The source of lawn contamination is likely related to modern practice of producing “roll-out” lawn. Further work should focus on identifying specific management practices that lead toC. difficilecontamination of lawn to inform prevention and control measures.
Unraveling the cytotoxicity and metabolic pathways of binary natural deep eutectic solvent systems
Authors: Mbous Yves Paul , Hayyan Maan , Wong Won Fen , Looi Chung Yeng , Hashim Mohd Ali
Published: February 2017

In this study, the anticancer potential and cytotoxicity of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) were assessed using HelaS3, PC3, A375, AGS, MCF-7, and WRL-68 hepatic cell lines. NADESs were prepared from choline chloride, fructose, or glucose and compared with an N,N-diethyl ethanolammonium chloride:triethylene glycol DES. The NADESs (98 ≤ EC50 ≥ 516 mM) were less toxic than the DES (34 ≤ EC50 ≥ 120 mM). The EC50values of the NADESs were significantly higher than those of the aqueous solutions of their individual components but were similar to those of the aqueous solutions of combinations of their chief elements. Due to the uniqueness of these results, the possibility that NADESs could be synthesized intracellularly to counterbalance the cytotoxicity of their excess principal constituents must be entertained. However, further research is needed to explore this avenue. NADESs exerted cytotoxicity by increasing membrane porosity and redox stress.In vivo, they were more destructive than the DES and induced liver failure. The potential of these mixtures was evidenced by their anticancer activity and intracellular processing. This infers that they can serve as tools for increasing our understanding of cell physiology and metabolism. It is likely that we only have begun to comprehend the nature of NADESs.
Real-time micro-scale temperature imaging at low cost based on fluorescent intensity ratio
Authors: Xiong Jianghao , Zhao Mingshu , Han Xiaotian , Cao Zhongmin , Wei Xiantao , Chen Yonghu , Duan Changkui , Yin Min
Published: February 2017

Real-time temperature imaging with high spatial resolution has been a challenging task but also one with wide potential applications. To achieve this task, temperature sensor is critical. Fluorescent materials stand out to be promising candidates due to their quick response and strong temperature dependence. However, former reported temperature imaging techniques with fluorescent materials are mainly based on point by point scanning, which cannot fulfill the requirement of real-time monitoring. Based on fluorescent intensity ratio (FIR) of two emission bands of SrB4O7:Sm2+, whose spatial distributions were simultaneously recorded by two cameras with special filters separately, real-time temperature imaging with high spatial resolution has been realized with low cost. The temperature resolution can reach about 2 °C in the temperature range from 120 to 280 °C; the spatial resolution is about 2.4 μm and the imaging time is as fast as one second. Adopting this system, we observed the dynamic change of a micro-scale thermal distribution on a printed circuit board (PCB). Different applications and better performance could also be achieved on this system with appropriate fluorescent materials and high sensitive CCD detectors according to the experimental environment.
Interactions of retinoids with the ABC transporters P-glycoprotein and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein
Authors: Tarapcsák Szabolcs , Szalóki Gábor , Telbisz Ágnes , Gyöngy Zsuzsanna , Matúz Krisztina , Csősz Éva , Nagy Péter , Holb Imre J. , Rühl Ralph , Nagy László , Szabó Gábor , Goda Katalin
Published: February 2017

Retinoids – derivatives of vitamin A – are important cell permeant signaling molecules that regulate gene expression through activation of nuclear receptors. P-glycoprotein (Pgp) and ABCG2 are plasma membrane efflux transporters affecting the tissue distribution of numerous structurally unrelated lipophilic compounds. In the present work we aimed to study the interaction of the above ABC transporters with retinoid derivatives. We have found that 13-cis-retinoic acid, retinol and retinyl-acetate inhibited the Pgp and ABCG2 mediated substrate transport as well as the substrate stimulated ATPase activity of these transporters. Interestingly, 9-cis-retinoic acid and ATRA (all-trans retinoic acid), both are stereoisomers of 13-cis-retinoic acid, did not have any effect on the transporters’ activity. Our fluorescence anisotropy measurements revealed that 13-cis-retinoic acid, retinol and retinyl-acetate selectively increase the viscosity and packing density of the membrane. Thus, the mixed-type inhibition of both transporters by retinol and ABCG2 by 13-cis-retinoic acid may be the collective result of direct interactions of these retinoids with the substrate binding site(s) and of indirect interactions mediated by their membrane rigidifying effects.
Fractal model and Lattice Boltzmann Method for Characterization of Non-Darcy Flow in Rough Fractures
Authors: Ju Yang , Zhang Qingang , Zheng Jiangtao , Chang Chun , Xie Heping
Published: February 2017

The irregular morphology of single rock fracture significantly influences subsurface fluid flow and gives rise to a complex and unsteady flow state that typically cannot be appropriately described using simple laws. Yet the fluid flow in rough fractures of underground rock is poorly understood. Here we present a numerical method and experimental measurements to probe the effect of fracture roughness on the properties of fluid flow in fractured rock. We develop a series of fracture models with various degrees of roughness characterized by fractal dimensions that are based on the Weierstrass–Mandelbrot fractal function. The Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM), a discrete numerical algorithm, is employed for characterizing the complex unsteady non-Darcy flow through the single rough fractures and validated by experimental observations under the same conditions. Comparison indicates that the LBM effectively characterizes the unsteady non-Darcy flow in single rough fractures. Our LBM model predicts experimental measurements of unsteady fluid flow through single rough fractures with great satisfactory, but significant deviation is obtained from the conventional cubic law, showing the superiority of LBM models of single rough fractures.
The association between HDAC9 gene polymorphisms and stroke risk in the Chinese population: A meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Xin , Guan Tangming , Li Shuyuan , Jiao Zinan , Lu Xiaoshuang , Huang Xiaodi , Ji Yuhua , Ji Qiuhong
Published: February 2017

Several recent genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have suggested that the histone deacetylase 9 (HDAC9) gene is associated with stroke, but the reliability of these findings remains controversial, particularly for the data derived from different ethnicities and geographical locations. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to explore the associations between HDAC9 polymorphisms and the risk of stroke in the Chinese population. All eligible case-control studies that met the search criteria were retrieved from multiple databases, and six case-control studies with a total of 2,356 stroke patients and 3,420 healthy controls were included. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated to assess the strengths of the associations of 3 HDAC9 gene polymorphisms with stroke risk. Our results revealed statistically significant associations of the rs2107595 (T/C) polymorphism with an increased risk of stroke in the allele, codominant and dominant models. Additionally, the rs2389995 (G/A) polymorphism was found to be significantly associated with a decreased risk of stroke in all genetic models. In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggested that the T allele of rs2107595 in HDAC9 increases the risk of stroke but that the G allele of rs2389995 decreases the risk of stroke in the Chinese population.
Serum protein changes in a rat model of chronic pain show a correlation between animal and humans
Authors: Bellei Elisa , Vilella Antonietta , Monari Emanuela , Bergamini Stefania , Tomasi Aldo , Cuoghi Aurora , Guerzoni Simona , Manca Letizia , Zoli Michele , Pini Luigi Alberto
Published: February 2017

In previous works we showed the overexpression of some proteins in biological fluids from patients suffering chronic pain. In this proteomic study we analysed serum from a rat model of neuropathic pain obtained by the chronic constriction injury (CCI) of sciatic nerve, at two time intervals, 2 and 5 weeks after the insult, to find proteins involved in the expression or mediation of pain. Sham-operated and CCI rats were treated with saline or indomethacin. Two weeks after ligation, we identified three serum proteins overexpressed in CCI rats, two of which, alpha-1-macroglobulin and vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP), remained increased 5 weeks post-surgery; at this time interval, we found increased levels of further proteins, namely apolipoprotein A-I (APOA1), apolipoprotein E (APOE), prostaglandin-H2 D-isomerase (PTGDS) and transthyretin (TTR), that overlap the overexpressed proteins found in humans. Indomethacin treatment reversed the effects of ligation. The qPCR analysis showed that transcript levels of APOA1, APOE, PTGDS and VDBP were overexpressed in the lumbar spinal cord (origin of sciatic nerve), but not in the striatum (an unrelated brain region), of CCI rats treated with saline 5 weeks after surgery, demonstrating that the lumbar spinal cord is a possible source of these proteins.
Photon-phonon Interaction in a Microfiber Induced by Optical and Electrostrictive Forces
Authors: Shi Yun-chao , Luo Wei , Xu Fei , Lu Yan-qing
Published: February 2017

Stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) via electrostrictive force is a fundamental interaction between light and sound which limits the power in conventional optical fibers. The emergence of optical microfibers with subwavelength diameter, ultralight mass and an intense light field, provides a new platform for photon–phonon coupling, resulting in the radiation pressure mediated contribution of SBS. This study examines the optomechanical system in cylindrical coordinates, reveals the theoretically radiation pressure induced analogous, and demonstrates contrary effect compared with electrostrictive force in solid or hollow silica microfibers. The finding shows that the photon-phonon coupling, which is related to SBS, can be suppressed in a solid microfiber, and even be completely cancelled in a hollow microfiber.
Pharmacologic ATM but not ATR kinase inhibition abrogates p21-dependent G1 arrest and promotes gastrointestinal syndrome after total body irradiation
Authors: Vendetti Frank P. , Leibowitz Brian J. , Barnes Jennifer , Schamus Sandy , Kiesel Brian F. , Abberbock Shira , Conrads Thomas , Clump David Andy , Cadogan Elaine , O’Connor Mark J. , Yu Jian , Beumer Jan H. , Bakkenist Christopher J.
Published: February 2017

We show that ATM kinase inhibition using AZ31 prior to 9 or 9.25 Gy total body irradiation (TBI) reduced median time to moribund in mice to 8 days. ATR kinase inhibition using AZD6738 prior to TBI did not reduce median time to moribund. The striking finding associated with ATM inhibition prior to TBI was increased crypt loss within the intestine epithelium. ATM inhibition reduced upregulation of p21, an inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases, and blocked G1 arrest after TBI thereby increasing the number of S phase cells in crypts in wild-type but not Cdkn1a(p21CIP/WAF1)−/− mice. In contrast, ATR inhibition increased upregulation of p21 after TBI. Thus, ATM activity is essential for p21-dependent arrest while ATR inhibition may potentiate arrest in crypt cells after TBI. Nevertheless, ATM inhibition reduced median time to moribund in Cdkn1a(p21CIP/WAF1)−/− mice after TBI. ATM inhibition also increased cell death in crypts at 4 h in Cdkn1a(p21CIP/WAF1)−/−, earlier than at 24 h in wild-type mice after TBI. In contrast, ATR inhibition decreased cell death in crypts in Cdkn1a(p21CIP/WAF1)−/− mice at 4 h after TBI. We conclude that ATM activity is essential for p21-dependent and p21-independent mechanisms that radioprotect intestinal crypts and that ATM inhibition promotes GI syndrome after TBI.
Thermoelectric properties of Bi1−xSnxCuSeO solid solutions
Authors: Yang Yuqing , Liu Xiaocun , Liang Xin
Published: February 2017

The thermoelectric properties of BiCuSeO are enhanced by an environmentally friendly dopant: Sn.
Direct observation of site-selective hydrogenation and spin-polarization in hydrogenated hexagonal boron nitride on Ni(111)
Authors: Ohtomo Manabu , Yamauchi Yasushi , Sun Xia , Kuzubov Alex A. , Mikhaleva Natalia S. , Avramov Pavel V. , Entani Shiro , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Naramoto Hiroshi , Sakai Seiji
Published: February 2017

We report the structural analysis and spin-dependent band structure of hydrogenated boron nitride adsorbed on Ni(111).
Cooperativity of axial and centre chirality in the biaryl disulfoxide/Rh(i)-catalysed asymmetric 1,4-addition of arylboronic aids to 2-cyclohexenone: a DFT study
Authors: Zha Gao-Feng , Qin Hua-Li , Kantchev Eric Assen B.
Published: February 2017

Atropisomeric biaryl disulfoxides contain two synergistic chiral elements.
Synthesis of 8-azaprotosappanin A derivatives via intramolecular palladium-catalyzed ortho C–H activation/C–C cyclization and their antibacterial activity
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Fu Wanyong , Jiang Hongshuo , Wang Chenglong , Ju Chao , Chu Wenyi , Sun Zhizhong
Published: February 2017

A novel synthetic protocol for the construction of eight-membered heterocycles by intramolecular palladium-catalyzed ortho C–H activation/C–C cyclization was proposed.
The photovoltaic effect in a [001] orientated ZnO thin film and its physical mechanism
Authors: Liu Bin , Wang Jinlei , Pei Cuijin , Ning Lichao , Cheng Lijuan , Zhang Congjie , Yang Heqing , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: February 2017

Herein, we developed an [001] orientated ZnO thin film photovoltaic device without p–n junction. On the basis of the presence of the internal electric field in ZnO thin film, we proposed a new physical mechanism of photon-to-electron conversion.
Low-cost nanocarbon electrodes on arbitrary fibrous substrates as efficient bifacial photovoltaic wires
Authors: Liu Wen , Peng Ming , Chen Si , Zou Dechun , Zhang Chaoqun , Fang Yueping , Cai Xin
Published: February 2017

Ultralow-cost nanocarbon was deposited on arbitrary fibers and used as an efficient catalytic electrode, leading to transparent conductive oxide (TCO) free and bifacial photovoltaic wires with an optimal efficiency of 6.09%.
Current-induced morphological evolution and reliability of Ag interconnects fabricated by a printing method based on nanoparticles
Authors: Jang Kyung-Tae , Hwang Jae-Sun , Park Yong-Jin , Lee Jae-Chan , Kim Na-Rae , Yu Ji-Woo , Joo Young-Chang
Published: February 2017

Ag interconnects fabricated by a printing method were tested under accelerated temperature and current stressing to investigate their electrical reliability and morphological evolution.
Development and application of a cloud point method for the extraction of natural estrogens E1 and E2 from urine samples and their simultaneous determination by HPLC-EC using a BDD electrode
Authors: de Amorim K. P. , Andrade L. S.
Published: February 2017

The determination of hormones in urine by CPE using chromatographic methods coupled to an electrochemical sensor was successfully applied to real analyses.
Speech-Language Pathologists and Behavior Analysts: Perspectives Regarding Theories and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Cardon Teresa
Published: February 2017

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and behavior analysts (BAs) provide treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Little is known about the similarities and/or differences between the two disciplines with regard to their theoretical perspectives and how it relates to intervention. A survey with 10 scenarios was created and distributed to BAs and SLPs. Responses were collected and a descriptive analysis was conducted. Differences in theoretical perspectives and intervention strategies were evident between the disciplines. The need for interprofessional education was apparent given the similarities and differences identified by both SLPs and BAs. There were limited referrals being advocated across disciplines. Recommendations for future areas of collaboration and education are included.
A Strengths-Based Approach to Autism: Neurodiversity and Partnering With the Autism Community
Authors: Donaldson Amy L. , Krejcha Karen , McMillin Andy
Published: February 2017

The autism community represents a broad spectrum of individuals, including those experiencing autism, their parents and/or caregivers, friends and family members, professionals serving these individuals, and other allies and advocates. Beliefs, experiences, and values across the community can be quite varied. As such, it is important for the professionals serving the autism community to be well-informed about current discussions occurring within the community related to neurodiversity, a strengths-based approach to partnering with autism community, identity-first language, and concepts such as presumed competence. Given the frequency with which speech-language pathologists (SLPs) serve the autism community, the aim of this article is to introduce and briefly discuss these topics.
Dissecting the molecular structure of the Orion B cloud: insight from principal component analysis
Authors: Gratier Pierre , Bron Emeric , Gerin Maryvonne , Pety Jérôme , Guzman Viviana V. , Orkisz Jan , Bardeau Sébastien , Goicoechea Javier R. , Le Petit Franck , Liszt Harvey , Öberg Karin , Peretto Nicolas , Roueff Evelyne , Sievers Albrech , Tremblin Pascal
Published: February 2017

Context.The combination of wideband receivers and spectrometers currently available in (sub-)millimeter observatories deliver wide-field hyperspectral imaging of the interstellar medium. Tens of spectral lines can be observed over degree wide fields in about 50 h. This wealth of data calls for restating the physical questions about the interstellar medium in statistical terms.

Aims.We aim to gain information on the physical structure of the interstellar medium from a statistical analysis of many lines from different species over a large field of view, without requiring detailed radiative transfer or astrochemical modeling.

Methods.We coupled a non-linear rescaling of the data with one of the simplest multivariate analysis methods, namely the principal component analysis, to decompose the observed signal into components that we interpret first qualitatively and then quantitatively based on our deep knowledge of the observed region and of the astrochemistry at play.

Results.We identify three principal components, linear compositions of line brightness temperatures, that are correlated at various levels with the column density, the volume density and the UV radiation field.

Conclusions.When sampling a sufficiently diverse mixture of physical parameters, it is possible to decompose the molecular emission in order to gain physical insight on the observed interstellar medium. This opens a new avenue for future studies of the interstellar medium.
Velocity and ion charge in a copper plasma plume ejected from 5 microsecond vacuum arcs
Authors: Silver Y. , Nachshon I. , Beilis I. I. , Leibovitch G. , Shafir G.
Published: February 2017

The charge state and velocity of ions extracted from the expanding plasma of 5 μs vacuum arc were measured using a Time of Flight mass spectrometer. The arc was sustained between the cylindrical copper cathode of 1 mm diameter and Kovar cylindrical anode. The distance between the two electrodes is 0.1 mm. The ion charge state and velocity were detected after the arc pulse at different times (in range 20–45 μs) by opening an electronic shutter. The arc current was 35 A. It was obtained that the ion velocities are decreasing with detection times from 3.75 to 1.75 cm/μs. The fastest ions are made of a large fraction of Cu+3 with some Cu+2 while the slowest ions are made of a larger fraction of Cu+2 with some Cu+.
Theoretical analysis of a Love wave biosensor in liquid with a viscoelastic wave guiding layer
Authors: Wu Huiyan , Xiong Xiangming , Zu Hongfei , Wang James H.-C. , Wang Qing-Ming
Published: February 2017

The Love mode surface acoustic wave biosensor is considered as one of the most promising probing methods in biomedical research and diagnosis, which has been applied to detect the mechano-biological behaviors of cells attached to the surface of the device. Recent studies have reported the structural and functional optimization of Love wave biosensors for reducing propagation loss and improving sensitivity; however, the relevant device performance needs to be analyzed in depth in terms of device structure, electromechanical properties of piezoelectric crystal substrates, viscoelastic properties of wave guiding layers, and the effect of liquid loading. In this study, a 36° YX-LiTaO3 based Love wave sensor with a parylene-C wave guiding layer is considered as a cell-based biosensor. A theoretical model is proposed to describe the Love wave propagation in the wave guiding layer and penetration in the liquid medium. Decay length δ for the Love wave penetration in liquid is found to be in the order of ∼50 nm, which agrees well with experimental observations. In addition, the effects of the viscoelastic wave guiding layer and liquid medium on the effective electromechanical coupling coefficient K2 of the sensor, the propagation loss PL, and sensor response to mass loading (mass sensitivity) are investigated. The numerical results indicate that the maximum propagation velocity is found at h/λ = 0, where h is the thickness of the wave guiding layer and λ is the wavelength; and the optimal coupling coefficient and mass sensitivity can be obtained at h/λ = 0.045 and h/λ = ∼0.06 in a vacuum or ∼0.058 in water, respectively. For a good combination of these device performance parameters, it is suggested that the optimal wave guiding layer thickness in a Love wave biosensor is at the vicinity of h/λ = ∼0.05 in a vacuum and ∼0.048 in liquid (water).
Absorption enhancement and total absorption in a graphene-waveguide hybrid structure
Authors: Guo Jun , Wu Leiming , Dai Xiaoyu , Xiang Yuanjiang , Fan Dianyuan
Published: February 2017

We propose a graphene/planar waveguide hybrid structure, and demonstrate total absorption in the visible wavelength range by means of attenuated total reflectance. The excitation of planar waveguide mode, which has strong near field enhancement and increased light interaction length with graphene, plays a vital role in total absorption. We analyze the origin and physical insight of total absorption theoretically by using an approximated reflectance, and show how to design such hybrid structure numerically. Utilizing the tunability of doped graphene, we discuss the possible application in optical modulators. We also achieve broadband absorption enhancement in near-IR range by cascading multiple graphene-waveguide hybrid structures. We believe our results will be useful not only for potential applications in optical devices, but also for studying other two-dimension materials.
Microtubule stabilisers docetaxel and paclitaxel reduce spindle damage and maintain the developmental competence of in vitro-mature bovine oocytes during vitrification
Authors: Pitchayapipatkul Jakkhaphan , Somfai Tamás , Matoba Satoko , Parnpai Rangsan , Nagai Takashi , Geshi Masaya , Vongpralub Thevin
Published: February 2017

This study compared the efficacy of docetaxel (DT) and paclitaxel (PT) in reducing spindle damage during vitrification and maintaining the developmental competence of in vitro-matured (IVM) bovine oocytes after vitrification and warming. Pretreatment of IVM oocytes with 0.05 µM DT for 30 min before vitrification resulted in significantly higher (P < 0.05) rates of oocyte survival and cleavage after IVF, as well as subsequent blastocyst rates on Days 7–9 and hatching on Days 8–9, compared with oocytes pretreated with 1.0 µM PT before vitrification or those vitrified without pretreatment. When nuclear status and spindle morphology of vitrified oocytes were assess after warming by immunostaining, DT pretreatment before vitrification resulted in a significantly higher (P < 0.05) percentage of oocytes at the MII stage with a normal, intact spindle compared with PT pretreatment or no pretreatment, but the percentage of MII oocytes was still significantly lower (P < 0.05) than in the control group. Pretreatment of IVM bovine oocytes with 0.05 µM DT or 1.0 µM PT for 30 min before vitrification reduces spindle damage to the same extent, without side effects on fertilisation and development. Pretreatment with 0.05 µM DT improved the developmental competence of vitrified–warmed oocytes to a greater degree than 1.0 µM PT pretreatment.
Short-term stock assessment of Loligo gahi at the Falkland Islands: sequential use of stochastic biomass projection and stock depletion models
Authors: Roa-Ureta Rubén , Arkhipkin Alexander I.
Published: February 2017

Roa-Ureta, R. and Arkhipkin, A. I. 2007. Short-term stock assessment of Loligo gahi at the Falkland Islands: sequential use of stochastic biomass projection and stock depletion models – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 64, 3–17. Two short-term stock assessment models are combined to examine the pre-season, in-season, and post-season dynamics of the Loligo gahi fishery off the Falkland Islands over four consecutive fishing seasons. A stochastic biomass projection model (SBPM) projects a pre-season survey-based biomass estimate from the date of the survey to the start of the season. A stock depletion model (SDM) assesses in-season biomass from commercial daily catch-and-effort data. The SBPM projects the SDM biomass estimate at the end of the season to a post-season date of spawning. Combining the SBPM and the SDM helps to clarify the spatio-temporal functioning of the stock and to assess the comparability of survey- and fishery-based estimates of biomass. For the first 2005 season, projected length frequencies indicate two pulses of recruitment onto the fishing grounds. Survey-based projections of biomass were lower than equivalent fishery-based estimates. Over two surveys, the sex ratio was balanced, suggesting full recruitment of both sexes onto the fishing grounds, and the ratio of survey-projected to fishing-estimated biomass was constant. This constant is interpreted as a scaling factor between survey biomass and absolute biomass.
Energy and Angular Response of TL Dosemeters for Beta Ray Dosimetry
Authors: Christensen P. , Prokic M.
Published: February 2017

Measured data are presented showing the influence of detector thickness, filter thickness, and detector/filter geometry on the energy and angular response of a beta dosemeter. The investigation comprises different types of thermoluminescent detectors with Mylar filters of thicknesses ranging from 0 - 49 mg.cm-2. 147Pm, 204Tl and 90Y sources were used for the irradiations. The measurements were made by placing the detectors in depressions in a 1 cm thick Perspex phantom that was turned to obtain different irradiation angles. Comparative measurements were made with an extrapolation chamber. The results showed that thin TL detectors, e.g. graphite-mixed sintered MgB4O7:Dy pellets and the Vinten extremity dosemeter satisfy the requirement to measure Hs(0.07) with sufficient accuracy for use for personal monitoring for beta ray maximum energies above 0.2 MeV.
Beta Dosimetry, Different Solutions
Authors: Uchrin G.
Published: February 2017

Various types of thermoluminescence beta dosemeters have been used and compared for mixed beta-gamma radiation dose measurements. The dosemeters investigated include; graphite mixed MgB4O7 and LiF pellets; cold pressed 0.2 mm thick LiF detectors; a pair of LiF/TLD-100 chips and cold pressed LiF of various thicknesses; a pair of LiF TLD-100 hot pressed chips with the same thicknesses but different filtration, and a specially prepared sandwich type dosemeter. This latter is composed of two thermoluminescent detectors separated by a layer of material with poor thermal conductivity. The glow curve structure using an approriate heating cycle allows evaluation of the TL responses of the two detectors simultaneously. The dose contributions from beta and hard beta plus gamma radiation may be determined using such a sandwich type dosemeter. The main features of the dosemeter systems, such as glow curve structure, sensitivity, energy dependence, detection limit, discrimination ratio between beta and gamma dose and their applicability are given and discussed.
Fast Neutron TL Dosimetry by Knock-on Protons: Energy Deposition in Thin Dosemeter Layers
Authors: Chassende-Baroz Ph. , Braunlich P. , Tetzlaff W. , Gasiot J.
Published: February 2017

Thin layer dosemeters are suitable for rapid laser heating and for the detection of knock-on protons produced in hydrogenous materials by collisions with fast neutrons. In an attempt to establish the optimum design parameters for a fast neutron dosemeter based on such a proton radiator, we calculate the proton conversion efficiencies and the resulting normalised TL signals for CaSO4:Dy layers of various thicknesses. On the basis of the known neutron energy spectra of 252Cf, moderated 252Cf, and Pu-Be neutron sources, the generation of protons in polyethylene foils, placed in close contact with the TLD layer, and the energy deposited by these protons in the CaSO4:Dy layer are computed. The results are compared with experiments performed in mixed neutron-gamma fields with 9 mm2 spots of this TL phosphor on borosilicate glass substrates heated with a computer-controlled CO2 laser beam of uniform intensity profile.
A High Precision Silicon Diode Dosimetry System
Authors: Dixon R.L.
Published: February 2017

An integrating dosimetry system using a silicon diode detector for use in routine spot checks of radiation therapy treatment machines is described. The system is a micropower, battery operated, dosemeter with a digital dose readout. It can contain the results of two irradiations in memory for the life of the batteries (~4 months), and hence can be used to check the output of a treatment unit at a remote facility by mail in lieu of TLD, with the advantage over TLD of higher precision and an immediate digital readout so that it is much less labour intensive. The dosemeter is designed to be completely automatic (radiation reset) for ease of use by the radiographer/technician. Stability over a three year period on a 60Co treatment machine was ±0.35% standard deviation with all readings being within 1.2% of the initial reading.