bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-apoptotic effects of Sonic hedgehog signalling through oxidative stress reduction in astrocytes co-cultured with excretory-secretory products of larval Angiostrongylus cantonensis
Authors: Chen Kuang-Yao , Chiu Cheng-Hsun , Wang Lian-Chen
Published: February 2017

Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the rat lungworm, is an important aetiologic agent of eosinophilic meningitis and meningoencephalitis in humans. Co-culturing astrocytes with soluble antigens of A. cantonensis activated the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signalling pathway and inhibited the apoptosis of astrocytes via the activation of Bcl-2. This study was conducted to determine the roles of the Shh signalling pathway, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in astrocytes after treatment with excretory-secretory products (ESP) from A. cantonensis fifth-stage larvae. Although astrocyte viability was significantly decreased after ESP treatment, the expression of Shh signalling pathway related proteins (Shh, Ptch-1 and Gli-1) was significantly increased. However, apoptosis in astrocytes was significantly decreased after activation of the Shh signalling pathway. Moreover, superoxide and hydrogen superoxide levels in astrocytes were significantly reduced after the activation of Shh pathway signalling due to increasing levels of the antioxidants catalase and superoxide dismutase. These findings indicate that the anti-apoptotic effects of the Shh signalling pathway in the astrocytes of mice infected with A. cantonensis are due to reduced levels of oxidative stress caused by the activation of antioxidants.
Antibacterial Activity and Bonding Ability of an Orthodontic Adhesive Containing the Antibacterial Monomer 2-Methacryloxylethyl Hexadecyl Methyl Ammonium Bromide
Authors: Yu Fan , Dong Yan , Yu Hao-han , Lin Ping-ting , Zhang Ling , Sun Xiang , Liu Yan , Xia Yu-ning , Huang Li , Chen Ji-hua
Published: February 2017

Irreversible white spot lesion (WSL) occurs in up to 50% of patients during orthodontic treatment. Therefore, orthodontic adhesives need to be able to inhibit or reduce bacterial growth in order to prevent or minimize WSL. This study evaluated the antibacterial effect and shear bond strength (SBS) of a resin-based orthodontic adhesive containing the antibacterial monomer 2-methacryloxylethyl hexadecyl methyl ammonium bromide (MAE-HB). MAE-HB was added at three concentrations (1, 3, and 5 wt%) to a commercial orthodontic adhesive Transbond XT, while the blank control comprised unmodified Transbond XT. Their antibacterial effects on Streptococcus mutans were investigated after 0 and 180 days of aging. The SBS of metal brackets bonded to the buccal enamel surface of human premolars was assessed. Compared with the blank control, the MAE-HB-incorporated adhesive exhibited a significant contact inhibitory effect on the growth of S. mutans (P < 0.05), even after 180 days of aging. SBS and adhesive remnant index values revealed that the bonding ability of the experimental adhesive was not significantly adversely affected by the incorporation of MAE-HB at any of the three concentrations. Therefore, orthodontic adhesives with strong and long-lasting bacteriostatic properties can be created through the incorporation of MAE-HB without negatively influencing bonding ability.
Graphene-copper composite with micro-layered grains and ultrahigh strength
Authors: Wang Lidong , Yang Ziyue , Cui Ye , Wei Bing , Xu Shichong , Sheng Jie , Wang Miao , Zhu Yunpeng , Fei Weidong
Published: February 2017

Graphene with ultrahigh intrinsic strength and excellent thermal physical properties has the potential to be used as the reinforcement of many kinds of composites. Here, we show that very high tensile strength can be obtained in the copper matrix composite reinforced by reduced graphene oxide (RGO) when micro-layered structure is achieved. RGO-Cu powder with micro-layered structure is fabricated from the reduction of the micro-layered graphene oxide (GO) and Cu(OH)2 composite sheets, and RGO-Cu composites are sintered by spark plasma sintering process. The tensile strength of the 5 vol.% RGO-Cu composite is as high as 608 MPa, which is more than three times higher than that of the Cu matrix. The apparent strengthening efficiency of RGO in the 2.5 vol.% RGO-Cu composite is as high as 110, even higher than that of carbon nanotube, multilayer graphene, carbon nano fiber and RGO in the copper matrix composites produced by conventional MLM method. The excellent tensile and compressive strengths, high hardness and good electrical conductivity are obtained simultaneously in the RGO-Cu composites. The results shown in the present study provide an effective method to design graphene based composites with layered structure and high performance.
Predictive Value of Cumulative Blood Pressure for All-Cause Mortality and Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Wang Yan Xiu , Song Lu , Xing Ai Jun , Gao Ming , Zhao Hai Yan , Li Chun Hui , Zhao Hua Ling , Chen Shuo Hua , Lu Cheng Zhi , Wu Shou Ling
Published: February 2017

The predictive value of cumulative blood pressure (BP) on all-cause mortality and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (CCE) has hardly been studied. In this prospective cohort study including 52,385 participants from the Kailuan Group who attended three medical examinations and without CCE, the impact of cumulative systolic BP (cumSBP) and cumulative diastolic BP (cumDBP) on all-cause mortality and CCEs was investigated. For the study population, the mean (standard deviation) age was 48.82 (11.77) years of which 40,141 (76.6%) were male. The follow-up for all-cause mortality and CCEs was 3.96 (0.48) and 2.98 (0.41) years, respectively. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis showed that for every 10 mm Hg·year increase in cumSBP and 5 mm Hg·year increase in cumDBP, the hazard ratio for all-cause mortality were 1.013 (1.006, 1.021) and 1.012 (1.006, 1.018); for CCEs, 1.018 (1.010, 1.027) and 1.017 (1.010, 1.024); for stroke, 1.021 (1.011, 1.031) and 1.018 (1.010, 1.026); and for MI, 1.013 (0.996, 1.030) and 1.015 (1.000, 1.029). Using natural spline function analysis, cumSBP and cumDBP showed a J-curve relationship with CCEs; and a U-curve relationship with stroke (ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke). Therefore, increases in cumSBP and cumDBP were predictive for all-cause mortality, CCEs, and stroke.
Visualization of tumor-related blood vessels in human breast by photoacoustic imaging system with a hemispherical detector array
Authors: Toi M. , Asao Y. , Matsumoto Y. , Sekiguchi H. , Yoshikawa A. , Takada M. , Kataoka M. , Endo T. , Kawaguchi-Sakita N. , Kawashima M. , Fakhrejahani E. , Kanao S. , Yamaga I. , Nakayama Y. , Tokiwa M. , Torii M. , Yagi T. , Sakurai T. , Togashi K. , Shiina T.
Published: February 2017

Noninvasive measurement of the distribution and oxygenation state of hemoglobin (Hb) inside the tissue is strongly required to analyze the tumor-associated vasculatures. We developed a photoacoustic imaging (PAI) system with a hemispherical-shaped detector array (HDA). Here, we show that PAI system with HDA revealed finer vasculature, more detailed blood-vessel branching structures, and more detailed morphological vessel characteristics compared with MRI by the use of breast shape deformation of MRI to PAI and their fused image. Morphologically abnormal peritumoral blood vessel features, including centripetal photoacoustic signals and disruption or narrowing of vessel signals, were observed and intratumoral signals were detected by PAI in breast cancer tissues as a result of the clinical study of 22 malignant cases. Interestingly, it was also possible to analyze anticancer treatment-driven changes in vascular morphological features and function, such as improvement of intratumoral blood perfusion and relevant changes in intravascular hemoglobin saturation of oxygen. This clinical study indicated that PAI appears to be a promising tool for noninvasive analysis of human blood vessels and may contribute to improve cancer diagnosis.
Fundamental limits in high-Q droplet microresonators
Authors: Giorgini A. , Avino S. , Malara P. , De Natale P. , Gagliardi G.
Published: February 2017

Liquid droplet whispering-gallery-mode microresonators open a new research frontier for sensing, optomechanics and photonic devices. At visible wavelengths, where most liquids are transparent, a major contribution to a droplet optical quality factor is expected theoretically from thermal surface distortions and capillary waves. Here, we investigate experimentally these predictions using transient cavity ring-down spectroscopy. With our scheme, the optical out-coupling and intrinsic loss are measured independently while any perturbation induced by thermal, acoustic and laser-frequency noise is avoided thanks to the ultra-short light-cavity interaction time. The measurements reveal a photon lifetime at least ten times longer than the thermal limit and indicate that capillary fluctuations activate surface scattering effects responsible for light coupling. This suggests that droplet microresonators are an ideal optical platform for ultra-sensitive spectroscopy of highly transparent liquid compounds in nano-liter volumes.
Social pain and social gain in the adolescent brain: A common neural circuitry underlying both positive and negative social evaluation
Authors: Dalgleish Tim , Walsh Nicholas D. , Mobbs Dean , Schweizer Susanne , van Harmelen Anne-Laura , Dunn Barnaby , Dunn Valerie , Goodyer Ian , Stretton Jason
Published: February 2017

Social interaction inherently involves the subjective evaluation of cues salient to social inclusion and exclusion. Testifying to the importance of such social cues, parts of the neural system dedicated to the detection of physical pain, the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and anterior insula (AI), have been shown to be equally sensitive to the detection of social pain experienced after social exclusion. However, recent work suggests that this dACC-AI matrix may index any socially pertinent information. We directly tested the hypothesis that the dACC-AI would respond to cues of both inclusion and exclusion, using a novel social feedback fMRI paradigm in a population-derived sample of adolescents. We show that the dACC and left AI are commonly activated by feedback cues of inclusion and exclusion. Our findings suggest that theoretical accounts of the dACC-AI network as a neural alarm system restricted within the social domain to the processing of signals of exclusion require significant revision.
Integrative analysis of copy number and transcriptional expression profiles in esophageal cancer to identify a novel driver gene for therapy
Authors: Dong Gaochao , Mao Qixing , Yu Decai , Zhang Yi , Qiu Mantang , Dong Gaoyue , Chen Qiang , Xia Wenjie , Wang Jie , Xu Lin , Jiang Feng
Published: February 2017

An increasing amount of evidence has highlighted the critical roles that copy number variants play in cancer progression. Here, we systematically analyzed the copy number alterations and differentially transcribed genes. Integrative analysis of the association between copy number variants and differential gene expression suggested that copy number variants will lead to aberrant expression of the corresponding genes. We performed a KEGG pathway and GO analysis, which revealed that cell cycle may have an effective role in the progression of esophageal cancer. FAM60A was then screened out as a potential prognostic factor through survival analysis and correlation analysis with clinical-pathological parameters. We subsequently showed that silencing of FAM60A could inhibit esophageal carcinoma tumor cell growth, migration and invasion in vitro. Through the bioinformatic analysis, we predict that FAM60A may act as a transcriptional factor to regulate genes that are correlated with each cell cycle. In summary, we comprehensively analyzed copy number segments and transcriptional expression profiles, which provided a novel approach to identify clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets of esophageal carcinoma.
Surface Structuring with Polarization-Singular Femtosecond Laser Beams Generated by a q-plate
Authors: Nivas Jijil JJ , Cardano Filippo , Song Zhenming , Rubano Andrea , Fittipaldi Rosalba , Vecchione Antonio , Paparo Domenico , Marrucci Lorenzo , Bruzzese Riccardo , Amoruso Salvatore
Published: February 2017

In the last few years femtosecond optical vortex beams with different spatial distributions of the state of polarization (e.g. azimuthal, radial, spiral, etc.) have been used to generate complex, regular surface patterns on different materials. Here we present an experimental investigation on direct femtosecond laser surface structuring based on a larger class of vector beams generated by means of a q-plate with topological charge q = +1/2. In fact, voltage tuning of q-plate optical retardation allows generating a family of ultrashort laser beams with a continuous spatial evolution of polarization and fluence distribution in the focal plane. These beams can be thought of as a controlled coherent superposition of a Gaussian beam with uniform polarization and a vortex beam with a radial or azimuthal state of polarization. The use of this family of ultrashort laser beams in surface structuring leads to a further extension of the achievable surface patterns. The comparison of theoretical predictions of the vector beam characteristics at the focal plane and the generated surface patterns is used to rationalize the dependence of the surface structures on the local state of the laser beam, thus offering an effective way to either design unconventional surface structures or diagnose complex ultrashort laser beams.
Stoichiometry and structure of a lantibiotic maturation complex
Authors: Reiners Jens , Abts André , Clemens Rebecca , Smits Sander H. J. , Schmitt Lutz
Published: February 2017

Lantibiotics are ribosomally synthesized antimicrobial peptides secreted by mainly Gram-positive bacteria. Class 1 lantibiotics mature via two modification steps introduced by a modification LanBC complex. For the lantibiotic nisin, the dehydratase NisB catalyzes the dehydration of serine and threonine residues in the so-called core peptide. Second, five (methyl)-lanthionine rings are introduced in a regio- and stereospecific manner by the cyclase NisC. Here, we characterized the assembly of the NisBC complex in vitro, which is only formed in the presence of the substrate. The complex is composed of a NisB dimer, a monomer of NisC and one prenisin molecule. Interestingly, the presence of the last lanthionine ring prevented complex formation. This stoichiometry was verified by small-angle X-ray scattering measurements, which revealed the first structural glimpse of a LanBC complex in solution.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Surface Passivation of CdSe Quantum Dots in All Inorganic Amorphous Solid by Forming Cd1−xZnxSe Shell
Authors: Xia Mengling , Liu Chao , Zhao Zhiyong , Wang Jing , Lin Changgui , Xu Yinsheng , Heo Jong , Dai Shixun , Han Jianjun , Zhao Xiujian
Published: February 2017

CdSe quantum dots (QDs) doped glasses have been widely investigated for optical filters, LED color converter and other optical emitters. Unlike CdSe QDs in solution, it is difficult to passivate the surface defects of CdSe QDs in glass matrix, which strongly suppress its intrinsic emission. In this study, surface passivation of CdSe quantum dots (QDs) by Cd1−xZnxSe shell in silicate glass was reported. An increase in the Se/Cd ratio can lead to the partial passivation of the surface states and appearance of the intrinsic emission of CdSe QDs. Optimizing the heat-treatment condition promotes the incorporation of Zn into CdSe QDs and results in the quenching of the defect emission. Formation of CdSe/Cd1−xZnxSe core/graded shell QDs is evidenced by the experimental results of TEM and Raman spectroscopy. Realization of the surface passivation and intrinsic emission of II-VI QDs may facilitate the wide applications of QDs doped all inorganic amorphous materials.
Recurrence of depressive disorders after interferon-induced depression
Authors: Chiu W-C , Su Y-P , Su K-P , Chen P-C
Published: February 2017

Interferon alpha (IFN-α)-treated patients commonly develop depression during the therapy period. Although most IFN-α-induced depressive disorders achieve remission after IFN-α therapy, no studies have examined the long-term mood effects of IFN-α treatment. We conducted a 12-year population-based cohort study of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients who were older than 20 years and had received IFN-α therapy. The sample was obtained from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The cohort included patients with and without IFN-α-induced depression, matched randomly by age, sex and depression history, at a ratio of 1:10. The follow-up started after the last administration of IFN-α and was designed to determine the incidence of recurrent depressive disorder after IFN-α therapy. A total of 156 subjects were identified as having IFN-α-induced depression and achieving full remission after IFN-α therapy. The overall incidence of recurrent depressive disorders among patients with and without IFN-α-induced depression was 56.8 (95% confidence interval (CI), 42.4–76.1) and 4.1 (95% CI, 2.9–5.8) cases, respectively, per 100 000 person-years, P<0.001. The adjusted hazard ratios for recurrent depressive disorder were 13.5 (95% CI, 9.9–18.3) in the IFN-α-treated cohort and 22.2 (95% CI, 11.2–44.2) in the matched cohort for IFN-α-induced depression patients after adjusting for age, sex, income, urbanization and comorbid diseases. IFN-α-induced depression was associated with a high risk of recurrent depression. It was not a transient disease and might be considered an episode of depressive disorder. Continuation therapy might be considered, and further research is needed.
In vitro genotoxicity of carcinogenic asarone isomers
Authors: Haupenthal S. , Berg K. , Gründken M. , Vallicotti S. , Hemgesberg M. , Sak K. , Schrenk D. , Esselen M.
Published: February 2017

Cytotoxic and genotoxic properties of the carcinogenic phenylpropanoids α-asarone and β-asarone in different cell lines.
Synthesis and biological properties of water-soluble polyphenylthiophene brushes with poly(ethylene glycol)/polyzwitterion side chains
Authors: Zhang Yajun , Zhang Zhengkui , Liu Changren , Chen Weizhi , Li Cheng , Wu Wei , Jiang Xiqun
Published: February 2017

Two types of water-soluble polyphenylthiophene brushes with poly(ethylene glycol) and polyzwitterion side chains were synthesized and studied as bioprobes.
Investigation on the controlled synthesis and post-modification of poly-[(N-2-hydroxyethyl)-aspartamide]-based polymers
Authors: Lv Shixian , Wu Yuchen , Dang Jingqi , Tang Zhaohui , Song Ziyuan , Ma Sheng , Wang Xiao , Chen Xuesi , Cheng Jianjun , Yin Lichen
Published: February 2017

We report the controlled synthesis of PHEA-based polymers and enhanced the post-modification reactivity by reducing the intramolecular hydrogen bonding.
Dithizone-etched CdTe nanoparticles-based fluorescence sensor for the off–on detection of cadmium ion in aqueous media
Authors: Li Li , Liao Lanfeng , Ding Yaping , Zeng Hongyan
Published: February 2017

In the present work, a new fluorescence probe based on dithizone-etched CdTe nanoparticles was designed for the sensitive and selective detection of cadmium ion in environmental samplesviaa reversible off–on fluorescence mode.
RGO/TiO2 nanosheets immobilized on magnetically actuated artificial cilia film: a new mode for efficient photocatalytic reaction
Authors: Wang Wei , Huang Xiaogu , Lai Min , Lu Chunhua
Published: February 2017

Exploring a proper mode for practical reaction and efficient recycle has been an extensively studied subject in the photocatalysis field.
Regulation of centrin self-assembly investigated by fluorescence resonance light scattering
Authors: Xiaojuan Guo Yaqin Zhao , Yang Binsheng
Published: February 2017

Centrin is primarily involved in fiber contraction, which is associated with the cell division cycle and ciliogenesis.
Reductive removal of gaseous nitrous oxide by activated carbon with metal oxide catalysts
Authors: Meng Hong , Yuan Linpo , Gao Jiajun , Ren Nannan , Lu Yingzhou , Li Chunxi
Published: February 2017

N2O gas can be catalytically reduced to N2 and CO2 by Cu-loaded active carbon under mild conditions.
Novel multi-responsive polymer magnetic microgels with folate or methyltetrahydrofolate ligand as anticancer drug carriers
Authors: Hu Yunli , Liu Weijun , Wu Fanhong
Published: February 2017

MP-PNAAEF or MP-PNAAEM microgels exhibiting good thermo- and pH-sensitivity have been prepared for targeted delivery to FR(+) cancer cells. The DOX-loaded microgels showed higher cellular uptake by the Hela cells, but not by the L02 cells.
Importance of volatile AAEM species to char reactivity during volatile–char interactions
Authors: Du Changshuai , Liu Li , Qiu Penghua
Published: February 2017

Behaviour characteristics of volatile AAEM species during volatile–char interactions is important to promote char reactivity.
Efficient production of acrylic acid by dehydration of lactic acid over BaSO4with crystal defects
Authors: Lyu Shuting , Wang Tiefeng
Published: February 2017

Crystal defects in BaSO4catalyst provide acid sites that catalyze the dehydration of lactic acid to acrylic acid.
Stepwise co-sensitization of two metal-based sensitizers: probing their competitive adsorption for improving the photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zhao Yanming , Lu Futai , Zhang Jie , Dong Yuze , Zhang Bao , Feng Yaqing
Published: February 2017

How to graft co-sensitizers with different strengths such as LP-2 and N719 onto TiO2 surfaces for enhancing the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) has been investigated in detail.
Fluorescence detection of Mn2+, Cr2O72−and nitroexplosives and photocatalytic degradation of methyl violet and rhodamine B based on two stable metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Wu Yu , Wu Jian , Luo Zhidong , Wang Jun , Li Yulong , Han Yaoyao , Liu Jianqiang
Published: February 2017

Two new MOFs show 3D 2-fold interpenetrating 4-connected networks and could be a prospective candidate for developing the luminescence sensors and the photocatalysis due to their highly stabilities.
Preparation of a polyphenylene sulfide membrane from a ternary polymer/solvent/non-solvent system by thermally induced phase separation
Authors: Wang Xiaotian , Li Zhenhuan , Zhang Maliang , Fan Tingting , Cheng Bowen
Published: February 2017

Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) membranes were preparedviaa thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) method.
A targetable fluorescent probe for imaging exogenous and intracellularly formed nitroxyl in mitochondria in living cells
Authors: Ren Mingguang , Deng Beibei , Zhou Kai , Wang Jian-Yong , Kong Xiuqi , Lin Weiying
Published: February 2017

We have developed a new mitochondrial-targeted turn-on fluorescent HNO probe (Mito-HNO). Fluorescence imaging shows that Mito-HNO is suitable for ratiometric visualization of HNO within mitochondria in living cells.
Facile production of graphene nanosheets comprising nitrogen-doping through in situ cathodic plasma formation during electrochemical exfoliation
Authors: Yen Po-Jen , Ting Chao-Chi , Chiu Yung-Chi , Tseng Tseung-Yuen , Hsu Yao-Jane , Wu Wen-Wei , Wei Kung-Hwa
Published: February 2017

Facile production of graphene nanosheets comprising nitrogen-doping throughin situcathodic plasma formation during electrochemical exfoliation.
Enhancement of the isopropanol gas sensing performance of SnO2/ZnO core/shell nanocomposites
Authors: Poloju Madhukar , Jayababu Nagabandi , Manikandan E. , Ramana Reddy M. V.
Published: February 2017

Pure SnO2, ZnO nanoparticles, and a SnO2/ZnO core/shell nanocomposite (NC) were prepared via a sol–gel technique.
Synthesis, crystal structure, enhanced photoluminescence properties and fluoride detection ability of S-heterocyclic annulated perylene diimide-polyhedral oligosilsesquioxane dye
Authors: Ben Hai-Jie , Ren Xiang-Kui , Song Bo , Li Xiaopeng , Feng Yakai , Jiang Wei , Chen Er-Qiang , Wang Zhaohui , Jiang Shichun
Published: February 2017

A novel S-annulated PDI derivative with enhanced PL property and fluoride detection ability was synthesized.
Bonding-induced thermal transport enhancement across a hard/soft material interface using molecular monolayers
Authors: Yuan Chao , Huang Mengyu , Cheng Yanhua , Luo Xiaobing
Published: February 2017

Interfacial thermal transport across a hard/soft material interface is enhanced by using a strongly bonding self-assembled monolayer.
Nucleobase-functionalized supramolecular polymer films with tailorable properties and tunable biodegradation rates
Authors: Cheng Chih-Chia , Huang Jyun-Jie , Liao Zhi-Sheng , Huang Shan-You , Lee Duu-Jong , Xin Zhong
Published: February 2017

Nucleobase-functionalized supramolecular films can directly self-assemble into a non-covalently cross-linked three-dimensional network structure with tuned physical properties and biodegradation rates.
Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide nanomaterials for combination cancer therapy
Authors: Gong Linji , Yan Liang , Zhou Ruyi , Xie Jiani , Wu Wei , Gu Zhanjun
Published: February 2017

In this review, we mainly summarize the latest advances in the utilization of 2D TMDCs for PTT combination cancer therapy and imaging-guided cancer combination therapy, as well as their toxicity bothin vitroandin vivo.
Engineering surface ligands of nanocrystals to design high performance strain sensor arrays through solution processes
Authors: Lee S.-W. , Joh H. , Seong M. , Lee W. S. , Choi J.-H. , Oh S. J.
Published: February 2017

We demonstrate solution processed and nanocrystal based wearable strain sensor arrays with high sensitivity and stability.
Modulation of the specific glutathionylation of mitochondrial proteins in the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaeunder basal and stress conditions
Authors: Gergondey Rachel , Garcia Camille , Marchand Christophe H. , Lemaire Stephane D. , Camadro Jean-Michel , Auchère Françoise
Published: February 2017

The potential biological consequences of oxidative stress and changes in glutathione levels include the oxidation of susceptible protein thiols and reversible covalent binding of glutathione to the –SH groups of proteins by S-glutathionylation. Mitochondria are central to the response to oxidative stress and redox signaling. It is therefore crucial to explore the adaptive response to changes in thiol-dependent redox status in these organelles. We optimized the purification protocol of glutathionylated proteins in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and present a detailed proteomic analysis of the targets of protein glutathionylation in cells undergoing constitutive metabolism and after exposure to various stress conditions. This work establishes the physiological importance of the glutathionylation process in S. cerevisiae under basal conditions and provides evidence for an atypical and unexpected cellular distribution of the process between the cytosol and mitochondria. In addition, our data indicate that each oxidative condition (diamide, GSSG, H2O2, or the presence of iron) elicits an adaptive metabolic response affecting specific mitochondrial metabolic pathways, mainly involved in the energetic maintenance of the cells. The correlation of protein modifications with intracellular glutathione levels suggests that protein deglutathionylation may play a role in protecting mitochondria from oxidative stress. This work provides further insights into the diversity of proteins undergoing glutathionylation and the role of this post-translational modification as a regulatory process in the adaptive response of the cell.
ADAR1 and PACT contribute to efficient translation of transcripts containing HIV-1 trans-activating response (TAR) element
Authors: Chukwurah Evelyn , Handy Indhira , Patel Rekha C.
Published: February 2017

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) has evolved various measures to counter the host cell's innate antiviral response during the course of infection. Interferon (IFN)-stimulated gene products are produced following HIV-1 infection to limit viral replication, but viral proteins and RNAs counteract their effect. One such mechanism is specifically directed against the IFN-induced Protein Kinase PKR, which is centrally important to the cellular antiviral response. In the presence of viral RNAs, PKR is activated and phosphorylates the translation initiation factor eIF2α. This shuts down the synthesis of both host and viral proteins, allowing the cell to mount an effective antiviral response. PACT (protein activator of PKR) is a cellular protein activator of PKR, primarily functioning to activate PKR in response to cellular stress. Recent studies have indicated that during HIV-1 infection, PACT's normal cellular function is compromised and that PACT is unable to activate PKR. Using various reporter systems and in vitro kinase assays, we establish in this report that interactions between PACT, ADAR1 and HIV-1-encoded Tat protein diminish the activation of PKR in response to HIV-1 infection. Our results highlight an important pathway by which HIV-1 transcripts subvert the host cell's antiviral activities to enhance their translation.
Non‐intrusive energy saving appliance recommender system for smart grid residential users
Authors: Luo Fengji , Ranzi Gianluca , Kong Weicong , Dong Zhao Yang , Wang Shu , Zhao Junhua
Published: February 2017

Demand side management is one of the key topics of smart grids. This study integrates the service computing paradigm in smart grid domain and proposes a demand side personalised recommendation system (PRS). The proposed PRS employs service recommendation techniques to infer residential users’ potential interests and needs on energy saving appliances, and then it recommends energy saving appliances to users, therefore potentially creating opportunities to save energy for the grid. The proposed approach starts by applying a non‐intrusive appliance load monitoring (NILM) method based on generalised particle filtering to disaggregate the end users’ household appliance utilisation profiles from the smart meter data. Based on the NILM results, several inference rules are applied to infer the preferences and energy consumption patterns, and to form the user profile. In parallel, information retrieval techniques are applied to extract keywords from the textual appliance advertisements (Ads), and to define the appliance profile. Finally, the similarity measurement method is applied to compare the user profile and appliance profile, to rank the appliance Ad, and to make the recommendations. Experiments are conducted to validate the proposed system.
Positive sequence induction motor speed control drive model for time‐domain simulations
Authors: Ramasubramanian Deepak , Vittal Vijay
Published: February 2017

The implementation of a positive sequence model for a squirrel cage induction motor speed control drive for use in time‐domain simulations of power systems is addressed. The drive model modulates the motor stator voltage magnitude and frequency to maintain constant rotor speed. A non‐ideal operation of the rectifier has been assumed. The performance of the model is assessed using a three‐machine nine bus WSCC equivalent system and a test distribution system. To simulate the time‐domain behaviour, an independently developed simulation program is used. It shows that the behaviour of the motor model in the independently developed simulation program is comparable and coincident to the behaviour of a motor model in commercial software. Furthermore, the need to include induction motor speed drive models in commercial software to analyse the behaviour of realistic systems is highlighted.
High‐efficiency low‐cost AC/AC buck converter with stability analysis
Authors: Hajimoradi Mohammadreza , Mokhtari Hossein
Published: February 2017

The commutation issue is the most important limiting factor of expanding AC chopper applications, which in most cases are solved by employing snubber circuits, implementing sensor‐based selective switching patterns and utilising resonant circuits. To overcome the commutation problem, this study proposes a novel non‐resonant AC/AC buck converter with no snubber circuits and no sensor‐based switching patterns. The introduced hardware configuration and the proposed control strategy provide a path for an inductive load current in all switching states. This converter offers higher reliability and efficiency as well as lower cost compared to the AC choppers with snubber circuits or voltage and current sensors for performing a selective switching. This study presents the operation principles of the proposed hardware configuration and derives the stability condition thorough mathematical analyses. Moreover, the achievements are evaluated by simulation and verified by experiments.
Reliability improvement of transistor clamped H‐bridge‐based cascaded multilevel inverter
Authors: Gautam Shivam Prakash , Gupta Shubhrata , Kumar Lalit
Published: February 2017

Reduced voltage stress and low‐total harmonic distortion are the main causes for such widespread application of multilevel inverters (MLIs) in various industrial sectors. However, reliability is one of the major concerns of MLIs as it uses a large number of switches as compared with two‐level inverters. Therefore, a newly developed transistor clamped H‐bridge inverter is proposed in the literature which uses a relatively less number of switches and DC sources as compared with cascaded H‐bridge but lacks in reliability due to the absence of redundant states. Hence, in this study, the reliability improvement strategy for newly developed five‐level transistor clamped H‐bridge‐based cascaded inverter is proposed which can be generalised for any number of levels. In the proposed fault tolerant strategy, the fault can be broadly classified based on the two main legs of the proposed inverter. Moreover, the proposed fault tolerant strategy does not require any kind of external circuit for maintaining its capacitor voltage in the balanced state. Finally, to validate the concept, a laboratory prototype of the five‐level inverter is developed and results are obtained successfully.
Dependence of landmine radar signature on aspect angle
Authors: Lombardi Federico , Griffiths Hugh D. , Wright Lauren , Balleri Alessio
Published: February 2017

Antipersonnel landmines have been indiscriminately used since World War II, and their long‐term persistence in the ground creates a barrier to development in a large number of countries and forces people to live in constant fear. There is a growing demand for reliable landmine detection and localisation systems to return affected areas to their normal use. Due to its ability of detecting both metallic and non‐metallic objects, ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a meaningful method for detecting landmines that may allow faster and safer operations. Unlike common clutter objects, most landmines can be modelled as multiple layered dielectric cylinders that cause multiple interfering reflections and result in features with a characteristic angular pattern. Due to this, landmines are expected to produce signatures that present some discriminant features that could be used for reducing the GPR false alarm rate. In this study, measurements of three inert landmines have been carried out to study and characterise landmine signatures as a function of polarisation angle and aspect angle.
Association of Midfacial Fractures with Ophthalmic Injury
Authors: Politis Constantinus , Kluyskens Alexandra , Dormaar Titiaan
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence of ophthalmic complications following midfacial fractures and investigate its relation to surgical or nonsurgical treatment. This article is a retrospective study, describing the spectrum and incidence of ophthalmic injury in 106 patients presenting with midfacial fractures at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of the University Hospitals Leuven over a period of 16 months (January 2013 to April 2014). The mean age of the patients was 45.6 years with a gender distribution of 68 men and 38 women. The main cause of trauma was road traffic accidents. Forty-one patients suffered an ophthalmic injury following the fracture. Twelve of them had a persistent ophthalmic problem. Ophthalmic examination is necessary during the initial management. The time window for preservation of sight is small and treatment should be started immediately. Development of an emergency trauma scale that includes fractures, symptoms of visual impairment, and patient history is recommended and should stimulate a multidisciplinary approach of complex cases.
Investigation of Selective Microwave Heating Phenomena in the Reactions of 2-Substituted Pyridines
Authors: Bana Péter , Greiner István
Published: February 2017

Debated selective microwave heating effects were investigated in a rearrangement and a benzylation reaction involving 2-substituted pyridines. An accurate, reproducible comparison technique and simultaneous temperature measurement using both external infrared and internal fibre optic sensors were utilized. The experimental details of the benzylation reaction were thoroughly addressed to resolve the inconsistencies that have been discussed previously in the literature. Hidden inhomogeneities in temperature and concentration were revealed within the reaction mixtures during microwave heating, which could be prevented by the modification of the vessel wall using an inert fluoropolymer liner. Instead of the previously proposed microscopic thermal microwave effect, the enhanced reaction rate could be explained by macroscopic-scale localized heating in the boundary layers close to the vessel surface in the microwave-heated experiment.
AXL-dependent infection of human fetal endothelial cells distinguishes Zika virus from other pathogenic flaviviruses
Authors: Richard Audrey Stéphanie , Shim Byoung-Shik , Kwon Young-Chan , Zhang Rong , Otsuka Yuka , Schmitt Kimberly , Berri Fatma , Diamond Michael S. , Choe Hyeryun
Published: February 2017

Significance

Zika virus (ZIKV) causes microcephaly, whereas other related pathogenic flaviviruses do not. To reach the fetal brain, a virus must be transported from the maternal to the fetal circulation, which requires crossing of the placental barrier. Our studies demonstrate that mammalian cell-derived ZIKV, but not two other globally relevant flaviviruses, efficiently infects fetal endothelial cells, a key component of the placental barrier, because only ZIKV can efficiently use the cell-surface receptor AXL. These data suggest that use of AXL allows ZIKV to enter the fetal bloodstream to gain access to other fetal tissues. Thus, this study provides insight into the unique properties of ZIKV that contribute to its ability to cause microcephaly and other congenital infections and diseases.
Intercultural mediation and “(non)professional” interpreting in Italian healthcare institutions
Authors: Baraldi Claudio , Gavioli Laura
Published: February 2017

This paper analyses interpreting activities performed by intercultural mediators in Italian healthcare services. It proposes a reflection on the type of professionalism that seems to be required in healthcare institutions where the issue of dealing with cultural differences between the patients and the operators is considered of fundamental importance. Our analysis shows that mediators address cultural differences along the lines of one of two orientations. The first treats cultural differences as a plurality of options, thus enhancing patients’ active participation and choice. The second is based on cultural essentialism and treats differences in terms of dos and don’ts, preventing interlocutors’ active participation. We suggest that in order to accomplish the task of dealing with cultural differences “professionally” in healthcare interaction, mediators and interpreters alike may be made aware of the advantages and risks involved in taking each of these two orientations.
More than mere translators
Authors: Ticca Anna Claudia
Published: February 2017

Lay interpreters participating in medical consultations engage in several activities that go beyond the mere translation of talk. This study aims to identify some of such activities and the participants’ associated identity categories as they emerge and are made relevant in these social encounters. The analysis of a large corpus of video-recorded medical consultations in a rural clinic in Yucatan (Mexico), where both Spanish and Yucatec Maya are spoken, shows that lay interpreters engage not only in oral translation, which is the expected activity, but also in other activities. In so doing, they display further social identities, such as that of a “social peer” or an “expert,” with which their co-participants might align or misalign. This study thus sheds lights on how lay interpreters navigate through the medical consultation and on how they adjust to local needs and their co-participants’ expectations as to their role in a given situation during an encounter.
Diagnostic and Interventional Optical Angioscopy in Ex Vivo Carotid Arteries
Authors: Savastano Luis E. , Chaudhary Neeraj , Murga-Zamalloa Carlos , Wang Michael , Wang Thomas , Thompson B. Gregory
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND: Angioscopy – or endovascular endoscopy – is a catheter-based technique employing a flexible fiberoptic angioscope to directly visualize arterial lumen. Poor resolution and excessive stiffness of pre-existent angioscopes limited their use clinically. Recent advances resulted in novel fused optical fiber bundle angioscopes with improved flexibility and imaging resolution. Use of these devices in endovascular neurosurgery is still largely unexplored.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate image quality and feasibility of optical angioscopes for diagnostic and interventional neuro-angioscopy in carotid arteries of human cadavers.

METHODS: A 5-F optical angioscope was used in human cadaveric carotid arteries to inspect integrity of arterial walls, identify atherosclerotic plaques and associated lesions prone to thrombogenicity, place intravascular occlusion coils, and deploy endovascular stents with real-time visualization.

RESULTS: Angioscopy provided key information about endoluminal anatomy such as presence and characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques and thrombogenic lesions not detected by conventional diagnostic methods. Direct real-time visualization of vascular lumen during endovascular interventions provided information on spatial distribution of coils, coil loop herniation, and apposition of stent cells against carotid artery wall complementary to angiography.

CONCLUSIONS: Fused optical fiber bundle angioscopes provide good-quality endoluminal images in human carotid arteries. Their use can feasibly assist in navigation of extracranial carotid arteries to inspect integrity of the arterial wall and identify atherosclerotic plaques and associated lesions vulnerable to thrombogenicity, allow placement of intravascular occlusion coils, and assess apposition of stents to vessel wall. Further in Vivo validation needs to be conducted along with additional research to improve image quality, flexibility, and size of angioscopes.
Survey Research in the Arab World
Authors: Benstead Lindsay J.
Published: February 2017

Since the first surveys were conducted there in the late 1980s, survey research has expanded rapidly in the Arab world. Almost every country in the region is now included in the Arab Barometer, Afrobarometer, or World Values Survey. Moreover, the Arab spring marked a watershed, with the inclusion of Tunisia and Libya and addition of many topics, such as voting behavior, that were previously considered too sensitive. As a result, political scientists have dozens of largely untapped data sets to answer theoretical and policy questions. To make progress toward measuring and reducing total survey error, discussion is needed about quality issues, such as high rates of missingness and sampling challenges. Ongoing attention to ethics is also critical. This chapter discusses these developments and frames a substantive and methodological research agenda for improving data quality and survey practice in the Arab world.
The Emergence of Organizations and States
Authors: Padgett John F.
Published: February 2017

Organizations and states emerge, exist, and evolve through dynamic processes operating across multiple network domains (e.g., political, economic, kinship, religion, and war). Autocatalytic networks—sets of nodes that reproduce themselves through ties—create and sustain organizations, but also contain the seeds of their evolution and destruction. Change occurs through novelty, which can take the form of innovation (transposition of ties or feedback among network domains) or invention (when innovation spills over to alter organizations across an entire domain). Equilibrium (through autocatalysis) and change (through novelty) are not different phenomena in this process-oriented view; they are distinct moments in the same underlying cycle. This chapter first develops a multiple-network perspective about the emergence of organizational novelty and autocatalysis, then applies this perspective to the comparative analysis of communist reform transitions in the Soviet Union under Stalin and Gorbachev, and in China under Mao and Deng Xiaoping.
Past Images, Contemporary Practices
Authors: Baracchini Leïla , Monney Julien
Published: February 2017

The emergence in the early 1990s of two contemporary San art projects in Botswana and South Africa has immediately been related to San rock art. Researchers have since that deconstructed this vision showing that that there is no connection between rock art and contemporary paintings and engravings. However as ‘synchronous’ forms of the current experiences of contemporary San art scene’s actors, the presence of rock art images is not without effect on it. Focusing on the Kuru Art Project (Ghanzi District, Botswana), this chapter explores how the presence of rock art images may affect and re-orient current practices and how these images from the past are constantly redefined in contemporary San art. It shows how rock art have become part of the “experiential landscape” of the Kuru artists and analyses the ways these images from the past are invested and reused today as a resource for present practices.
Bodies Revealed
Authors: Taylor Luke
Published: February 2017

This chapter examines X-ray art in western Arnhem Land in northern Australia, considering how relatively contemporary artists used it to enrich the meaning of their work. After discussing early research on the meanings of X-ray and developing interpretations of art of the ancestors, the chapter explores the use of X-ray representation in rock art in western Arnhem Land, then analyzes the use of art in ceremony, focusing on Mardayin and Lorrkon, as well as the production of bark paintings made for sale through commercial outlets. It shows that understanding X-ray imagery helps to create intellectual connections between many areas of experience of the world. The chapter looks at the first creators, Yingarna and Ngalyod the rainbow serpents, and their role in promoting creative uses of X-ray infill and concludes that art helps initiates understand the powers of Djang not only as corporeal entities but also in more metaphysical terms.
Self-Help and Stepped Care Treatments for Eating Disorders
Authors: Peterson Carol , Pisetsky Emily M. , Haut Caroline E.
Published: February 2017

This chapter provides an overview of self-help and guided self-help treatments for eating disorders as well as stepped care models for treatment delivery. Empirical evidence suggests that although guided self-help approaches may have relatively higher efficacy and retention rates than self-help treatment, data from comparison trials are inconsistent. Robust treatment predictors, moderators, and mediators have not been identified other than rapid response as a predictor of outcome for cognitive-behavioral guided self-help, which may be useful in informing stepped care treatment. Stepped care models have received some empirical support and, in addition to potentially reducing treatment costs, may enhance efficacy by providing individuals who are not responsive to initial treatments with alternative or adjunctive interventions. Research using adaptive and tailored designs for treatment is needed to improve treatment efficacy and dissemination. Further research is needed in cost-efficacy, implementation, clinician training models, and patient preferences and acceptability.