bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast robust SUR with economical and actuarial applications
Authors: Hubert Mia , Verdonck Tim , Yorulmaz Özlem
Published: May 2016

The seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) model is a generalization of a linear regression model consisting of more than one equation, where the error terms of these equations are contemporaneously correlated. The standard feasible generalized linear squares (FGLS) estimator is efficient as it takes into account the covariance structure of the errors, but it is also very sensitive to outliers. The robust SUR estimator of Bilodeau and Duchesne (Canadian Journal of Statistics, 28:277–288, 2000) can accommodate outliers, but it is hard to compute. First, we propose a fast algorithm, FastSUR, for its computation and show its good performance in a simulation study. We then provide diagnostics for outlier detection and illustrate them on a real dataset from economics. Next, we apply our FastSUR algorithm in the framework of stochastic loss reserving for general insurance. We focus on the general multivariate chain ladder (GMCL) model that employs SUR to estimate its parameters. Consequently, this multivariate stochastic reserving method takes into account the contemporaneous correlations among run‐off triangles and allows structural connections between these triangles. We plug in our FastSUR algorithm into the GMCL model to obtain a robust version. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Statistical Analysis and Data Mining: The ASA Data Science Journal, 2016
Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes after fetoscopic laser surgery for twin–twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Snowise S. , Mann L. K. , Moise K. J. , Johnson A. , Bebbington M. W. , Papanna R.
Published: May 2016

Objective

To assess the incidence, clinical course, risk factors and outcomes of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) after fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS) for twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).

Methods

This was a prospective observational cohort study of 154 consecutive cases of TTTS. PPROM was defined as rupture of membranes before 34 weeks' gestation. Procedure‐to‐PPROM and PPROM‐to‐delivery intervals were determined. Relevant preoperative and intraoperative variables were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression to determine their impact on PPROM after FLS.

Results

The incidence of PPROM was 39% (n = 60), occurring at a mean gestational age of 27.2 ± 4.6 weeks. Median procedure‐to‐PPROM interval was 46 (range, 1–105; interquartile range (IQR), 13–66) days and median PPROM‐to‐delivery interval was 1 (range, 0–93; IQR, 0–13) day. Mean gestational age at delivery in cases with PPROM was 29.0 ± 4.5 weeks compared with 32.6 ± 3.9 weeks in cases without PPROM (P < 0.0001). Insertion of a collagen plug was the only significant factor found on both univariate and multivariate analysis to be associated with an increased rate of PPROM (odds ratio, 3.1 (95% CI, 1.2–8.0); P = 0.006). There was no statistically significant difference in fetal (P = 0.07) or neonatal (P = 0.08) survival between those with and those without PPROM.

Conclusions

PPROM after FLS increases prematurity by 3.6 weeks. The latency period after PPROM was 2 weeks; 50% of patients delivered within 24 h. No variable thought to be associated with PPROM after FLS was found to be significantly associated with this complication. Other etiologies and mechanisms for PPROM after FLS should be explored. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Differences in nitrogen redistribution between early and late plant colonizers through ectomycorrhizal fungi on the volcano Mount Koma
Authors: Kwon TaeOh , Tsuyuzaki Shiro
Published: May 2016

Relationships involving the transfer of nitrogen (N) among Salix reinii (willow), Larix kaempferi (larch), and mycorrhizal fungi were investigated in a ridge and hillslope on the volcano Mount Koma in northern Japan using a two‐pool fungal model. This model estimated N transfer among the examined taxa by measuring changes in the stable isotope ratio of N (δ15N). Although N content in tephra was low at both sites, it was higher on the ridge than on the hillslope, and higher in the willow patch than on bare ground or in the larch understory. The non‐mycorrhizal sedge (Carex oxyandra) exhibited non‐significant differences between the two sites regarding δ15N for N obtained from tephra. Larches developed a relationship with larch‐specific Suillus mycorrhizal fungal species in the roots, and had a lower foliar δ15N on the hillslope than on the ridge. The larch δ15N increased during the growing season, while the willow δ15N remained stable. The dependence of larch on mycorrhizal fungi for N uptake was 3–5 % on the ridge and 56–76 % on the hillslope in autumn. Therefore, larches exhibited a flexible symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi for obtaining N. Over 45 % of the N taken up by willow plants was obtained from mycorrhizal fungi at both sites. In conclusion, willow plants promoted N deposition in tephra through the litter supply, and formed a stable relationship with mycorrhizal fungi. This enabled successful revegetation with larch plants, which exhibited flexibility in terms of N uptake (i.e., dependent on mycorrhizae or from tephra).
The current and future burden of late‐onset dementia in the United Kingdom: Estimates and interventions
Authors: Lewis Fraser I. , Torgerson Paul R.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

We estimate the burden of late‐onset dementia in the United Kingdom through to 2025 and assess the impact of potential interventions.

Methods

We compute disability adjusted life years (DALYs) through to 2025 and consider three interventions, all assumed launched in 2018; (1) an optimistic limiting case of a 100% preventive intervention with immediate uptake of 100% of the population at risk; (2) an intervention which delays onset by 5 years, linear uptake to 50% after 5 years; (3) as (2) but uptake 75% after 5 years.

Results

By 2025, the DALY burden will have increased by 42% from the Global Disease Burden 2010 estimate. Intervention results: (1) a 9% decrease by 2025; (2) a 33% increase; and (3) a 28% increase.

Discussion

At current prevalence rates, the ability of an intervention to offset the projected increase in DALY burden of dementia in the United Kingdom by 2025 appears low.
Prognostic impact of the number of resected lymph node on survival in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ladeira Katia M. , Martins Sandra Fátima Fernandes
Published: May 2016

Introduction Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of death in Western countries. In Portugal, in the North, emerges as the second most common cancer. The presence of lymph node metastasis is an important predictor of overall and disease-free survival and several studies recommend the evaluation of at least 12–14 regional lymph nodes, as it contributes to improve cancer staging and patient outcomes.

Aims Epidemiological characterization of the studied population and identify a possible relationship between the number of lymph nodes evaluated in the surgical specimen and survival.

Methods We preceded to the study of 1065 CCR patients, submitted to surgical resection between 1 January 2000 and 31 August 2012, in Braga Hospital.

Discussion/Conclusion The results of the epidemiological characterization of this population are coincident with those described in the literature. It was observed a significant correlation between age, tumor size, serosal invasion, differentiation, tumor penetration, venous and lymphatic invasion, metastasis, TNM stage and the number of lymph nodes evaluated. However, we did not observe a statistically significant correlation between patient survival and number of lymph nodes evaluated (p > 0.05). A possible explanation is the practice of oncologists, addressing patients with less than 12 nodes identified in the surgical specimen as “N-positive” and undergoing adjuvant therapy. A better harvest and careful analysis of lymph nodes would lead to more accurate staging, avoiding overtreatment and side effects associated, and allow better economic management of hospital resources, in real N0 patients.
Behavioral Economics, Happiness Surveys, and Public Policy
Authors: Adler Matthew D.
Published: May 2016

Two important developments in recent policy analysis are behavioral economics and subjective-well-being (SWB) surveys. What is the connection between them? Some have suggested that behavioral economics strengthens the case for SWB surveys as a central policy tool, e.g., in the form of SWB-based cost-benefit analysis. This article reaches a different conclusion. Behavioral economics shows that individuals in their day-to-day, “System 1” behavior are not expected utility (EU-) rational – that they often fail to comply with the norms of rationality set forth by EU theory. Consider now that the standard preference-based view of individual well-being looks to individuals’ rational preferences. If the findings of behavioral economics are correct, an individual’s answer to a question such as “How satisfied are you with your life?” is not going to tell us much about her rational (EU-compliant) preferences. Behavioral economics, by highlighting widespread failures of EU rationality, might actually argue for an objective-good (non-preference-based) view of well-being. However (except in the limiting case of an objective-good view positing a single mentalistic good, happiness), SWB surveys will not be strong evidence of well-being in the objective-good sense. In short, SWB surveys are no “magic cure” for the genuine difficulties in inferring rational preferences and measuring well-being underscored by behavioral economics.
SEEING DEMONS: AUTOPSY IN MAXIMUS OF TYRE'SORATION9 AND ITS ABSENCE IN APULEIUS’ON THE GOD OF SOCRATES
Authors: Benson Geoffrey C.
Published: May 2016

Apuleius’On the God of Socrates(De Deo Socratis), a lecture on Platonic demonology and Socrates’daimonionthat dates to the second half of the second century CE, is a critical work in the assessment of Apuleius’ Platonism, but it also should play a larger role in our reconstruction of his public image than it has. This popular philosophical lecture focuses on the same theme as two Greek works from roughly the same time period: Plutarch's dialogueOn the Daimonion of Socrates(περὶ τοῦ Σωϰράτους δαιμονίου) and Maximus of Tyre'sOrations8-9 (Διαλέξεις). Discussion ofOn the God of Socrateshas centered on its relationship with these other texts, with the aim of comparing Apuleius’ argument aboutdaimoneswith Plutarch's and Maximus’. The consensus view is that Plutarch's treatment of demonology has little in common with Apuleius’ (I present further evidence supporting the consensus near the end of this essay). On the other hand, many scholars assert Apuleius’ closest Greek model is Maximus of Tyre, a sophist with a Platonic orientation who wrote forty-one brief lectures on ethics and other philosophical subjects in the second century CE.
THE IRONY OF CONSOLATION IN EURIPIDES' PLAYS AND FRAGMENTS
Authors: Chong-Gossard James H. Kim On
Published: May 2016

At the mid-point of Euripides'Hippolytus,Theseus arrives to find that his wife Phaedra has hanged herself, for a reason yet unknown. As he laments over his wife's corpse, the chorus of Troezenian women offers apparently standard consolation:
Factors are not the same for risk of stopping exclusive breast-feeding and introducing different types of liquids and solids in HIV-affected communities in Ghana
Authors: Marquis Grace S. , Lartey Anna , Perez-Escamilla Rafael , Mazur Robert E. , Brakohiapa Lucy , Birks Katherine A.
Published: May 2016

Exclusive breast-feeding (EBF) for 6 months supports optimal infant growth, health and development. This paper examined whether maternal HIV status was associated with EBF and other infant feeding practices. Pregnant women were enrolled after HIV counselling, and their babies were followed up for up to 1 year. Data on household socio-economics and demographics, maternal characteristics and infants’ daily diet were available for 482 infants and their mothers (150 HIV-positive (HIV-P), 170 HIV-negative (HIV-N) and 162 HIV-unknown (HIV-U)). Survival analyses estimated median EBF duration and time to introduction of liquids and foods; hazards ratios (HR) used data from 1–365 and 1–183 d, adjusting for covariates. Logistic regression estimated the probability of EBF for 6 months. Being HIV-P was associated with a shorter EBF duration (139 d) compared with HIV-N (163 d) and HIV-U (165 d) (P=0·004). Compared with HIV-N, being HIV-P was associated with about a 40 % higher risk of stopping EBF at any time point (HR 1·39; 95 % CI 1·06, 1·84; P=0·018) and less than half as likely to complete 6 months of EBF (adjusted OR 0·42; 95 % CI 0·22, 0·81; P=0·01). Being HIV-P tended to be or was associated with a higher risk of introducing non-milk liquids (HR 1·34; 95 % CI 0·98, 1·83; P=0·068), animal milks (HR 2·37; 95 % CI 1·32, 4·24; P=0·004) and solids (HR 1·56; 95 % CI 1·10, 2·22; P=0·011) during the first 6 months. Weight-for-age Z-score was associated with EBF and introducing formula. Different factors (ethnicity, food insecurity, HIV testing strategy) were associated with the various feeding behaviours, suggesting that diverse interventions are needed to promote optimal infant feeding.
Synthesis, characterization, and crystal structure of two zinc linear dicarboxylates
Authors: Baca Berenice Torruco , del Castillo Luis Felipe , Vera-Cruz Paula , Toscano Rubén A. , Rodríguez-Hernández Joelis , Balmaseda Jorge
Published: May 2016

Two different crystalline structures corresponding to a zinc adipate and a zinc succinate were determined combining: X-ray powder and single-crystal diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and true densities experiments. The zinc succinate crystal structure was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. This compound crystallizes in the orthorhombic space-group Cccm with unit-cell parameters a = 4.792(1) Å, b = 21.204(6) Å, c = 6.691(2) Å, V = 679.8(3) Å3, and Z = 8. Zinc adipate crystal structure was refined from the laboratory X-ray powder diffraction data by the Rietveld method. It crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2/c with unit-cell parameters, a = 16.2037(17)Å, b = 4.7810(2)Å, c = 9.2692(6)Å, β = 90.329(3)°, V = 718.07(9) Å3, and Z = 4. The thermal expansion of it was estimated in 5.40 × 10−5 K−1. This contribution is a step on the way to systematize the regularities in the coordination diversity between linear dicarboxylates and transition metal–inorganic buildings units of metal–organic frameworks.
Spatio-temporal modelling of foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks
Authors: MALESIOS C. , DEMIRIS N. , KOSTOULAS P. , DADOUSIS K. , KOUTROUMANIDIS T. , ABAS Z.
Published: May 2016

We present and analyse data collected during a severe epidemic of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) that occurred between July and September 2000 in a region of northeastern Greece with strategic importance since it represents the southeastern border of Europe and Asia. We implement generic Bayesian methodology, which offers flexibility in the ability to fit several realistically complex models that simultaneously capture the presence of ‘excess’ zeros, the spatio-temporal dependence of the cases, assesses the impact of environmental noise and controls for multicollinearity issues. Our findings suggest that the epidemic was mostly driven by the size and the animal type of each farm as well as the distance between farms while environmental and other endemic factors were not important during this outbreak. Analyses of this kind may prove useful to informing decisions related to optimal control measures for potential future FMD outbreaks as well as other acute epidemics such as FMD.
Synergistic Effects of Reserve and Adaptive Personality in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Roy Shumita , Schwartz Carolyn E. , Duberstein Paul , Dwyer Michael G. , Zivadinov Robert , Bergsland Niels , Powell Victoria , Weinstock-Guttman Bianca , Benedict Ralph H.B.
Published: May 2016

Objectives: Cognitive reserve moderates the effects of gray matter (GM) atrophy on cognitive function in neurological disease. Broadly speaking, Reserve explains how persons maintain function in the face of cerebral injury in cognitive and other functional domains (e.g., physical, social). Personality, as operationalized by the Five Factor Model (FFM), is also implicated as a moderator of this relationship. It is conceivable that these protective mechanisms are related. Prior studies suggest links between Reserve and personality, but the degree to which these constructs overlap and buffer the clinical effects of neuropathology is unclear. Methods: We evaluated Reserve and FFM traits—Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness—in a cohort of 67 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. We also examined the extent to which FFM traits and aspects of Reserve interact in predicting cognitive processing speed. Results: Retrospectively reported educational/occupational achievement was associated with higher Openness, and childhood social engagement was associated with higher Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness. Current involvement in exercise activities and social activities was associated with Extraversion, current involvement in hobbies was associated with Neuroticism, and current receptive behaviors were associated with Agreeableness and Conscientiousness. When tested as predictors, Conscientiousness and childhood enrichment activities interacted in predicting cognitive processing speed after accounting for age, disease duration, disability, and GM volume. Conclusions: Childhood enrichment activities and Conscientiousness have a synergistic effect on cognitive processing speed. Current findings have implications for using psychological interventions to foster both Reserve and adaptive personality characteristics to stave off clinical symptoms in MS. (JINS, 2016, 22, 920–927)
A Flight Simulator Study of the Impairment Effects of Startle on Pilots During Unexpected Critical Events
Authors: Martin Wayne L. , Murray Patrick S. , Bates Paul R. , Lee Paul S. Y.
Published: May 2016

Abstract. Recent aircraft accidents have implicated startle as contributory, or directly causal, in situation outcome. The startle reflex is a ubiquitous response to surprising stimuli, which results in aversive movement and attentional orienting. Fear-potentiated startle, where a startling stimulus is experienced in the presence of conditions that are appraised as harmful or threatening, has the effect of initiating and exacerbating the stress response, particularly where threat persists, such as during an aircraft emergency. The deleterious effects of this stress response on cognitive function are discussed. Results from startle research in a B737 flight simulator showed considerable cognitive impairment in approximately one third of participants.
Spatio-temporal visualization of light transport in complex photonic structures
Authors: Pattelli Lorenzo , Savo Romolo , Burresi Matteo , Wiersma Diederik S
Published: May 2016

Spatio-temporal imaging of light propagation is very important in photonics because it provides the most direct tool available to study the interaction between light and its host environment. Sub-ps time resolution is needed to investigate the fine and complex structural features that characterize disordered and heterogeneous structures, which are responsible for a rich array of transport physics that have not yet been fully explored. A newly developed wide-field imaging system enables us to present a spatio-temporal study on light transport in various disordered media, revealing properties that could not be properly assessed using standard techniques. By extending our investigation to an almost transparent membrane, a configuration that has been difficult to characterize until now, we unveil the peculiar physics exhibited by such thin scattering systems with transport features that go beyond mainstream diffusion modeling, despite the occurrence of multiple scattering.
Survival trade-offs in plant roots during colonization by closely related beneficial and pathogenic fungi
Authors: Hacquard Stéphane , Kracher Barbara , Hiruma Kei , Münch Philipp C. , Garrido-Oter Ruben , Thon Michael R. , Weimann Aaron , Damm Ulrike , Dallery Jean-Félix , Hainaut Matthieu , Henrissat Bernard , Lespinet Olivier , Sacristán Soledad , Ver Loren van Themaat Emiel , Kemen Eric , McHardy Alice C. , Schulze-Lefert Paul , O’Connell Richard J.
Published: May 2016

The sessile nature of plants forced them to evolve mechanisms to prioritize their responses to simultaneous stresses, including colonization by microbes or nutrient starvation. Here, we compare the genomes of a beneficial root endophyte, Colletotrichum tofieldiae and its pathogenic relative C. incanum, and examine the transcriptomes of both fungi and their plant host Arabidopsis during phosphate starvation. Although the two species diverged only 8.8 million years ago and have similar gene arsenals, we identify genomic signatures indicative of an evolutionary transition from pathogenic to beneficial lifestyles, including a narrowed repertoire of secreted effector proteins, expanded families of chitin-binding and secondary metabolism-related proteins, and limited activation of pathogenicity-related genes in planta. We show that beneficial responses are prioritized in C. tofieldiae-colonized roots under phosphate-deficient conditions, whereas defense responses are activated under phosphate-sufficient conditions. These immune responses are retained in phosphate-starved roots colonized by pathogenic C. incanum, illustrating the ability of plants to maximize survival in response to conflicting stresses.
The PDGF-BB-SOX7 axis-modulated IL-33 in pericytes and stromal cells promotes metastasis through tumour-associated macrophages
Authors: Yang Yunlong , Andersson Patrik , Hosaka Kayoko , Zhang Yin , Cao Renhai , Iwamoto Hideki , Yang Xiaojuan , Nakamura Masaki , Wang Jian , Zhuang Rujie , Morikawa Hiromasa , Xue Yuan , Braun Harald , Beyaert Rudi , Samani Nilesh , Nakae Susumu , Hams Emily , Dissing Steen , Fallon Padraic G. , Langer Robert , Cao Yihai
Published: May 2016

Signalling molecules and pathways that mediate crosstalk between various tumour cellular compartments in cancer metastasis remain largely unknown. We report a mechanism of the interaction between perivascular cells and tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) in promoting metastasis through the IL-33–ST2-dependent pathway in xenograft mouse models of cancer. IL-33 is the highest upregulated gene through activation of SOX7 transcription factor in PDGF-BB-stimulated pericytes. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments validate that IL-33 promotes metastasis through recruitment of TAMs. Pharmacological inhibition of the IL-33–ST2 signalling by a soluble ST2 significantly inhibits TAMs and metastasis. Genetic deletion of host IL-33 in mice also blocks PDGF-BB-induced TAM recruitment and metastasis. These findings shed light on the role of tumour stroma in promoting metastasis and have therapeutic implications for cancer therapy.
Quantification of topological features in cell meshes to explore E-cadherin dysfunction
Authors: Mestre Tânia , Figueiredo Joana , Ribeiro Ana Sofia , Paredes Joana , Seruca Raquel , Sanches João Miguel
Published: May 2016

In cancer, defective E-cadherin leads to cell detachment, migration and metastization. Further, alterations mediated by E-cadherin dysfunction affect cell topology and tissue organization. Herein, we propose a novel quantitative approach, based on microscopy images, to analyse abnormal cellular distribution patterns. We generated undirected graphs composed by sets of triangles which accurately reproduce cell positioning and structural organization within each image. Network analysis was developed by exploring triangle geometric features, namely area, edges length and formed angles, as well as their variance, when compared with the respective equilateral triangles. We generated synthetic networks, mimicking the diversity of cell-cell interaction patterns, and evaluated the applicability of the selected metrics to study topological features. Cells expressing wild-type E-cadherin and cancer-related mutants were used to validate our strategy. Specifically, A634V, R749W and P799R cancer-causing mutants present more disorganized spatial distribution when compared with wild-type cells. Moreover, P799R exhibited higher length and angle distortions and abnormal cytoskeletal organization, suggesting the formation of very dynamic and plastic cellular interactions. Hence, topological analysis of cell network diagrams is an effective tool to quantify changes in cell-cell interactions and, importantly, it can be applied to a myriad of processes, namely tissue morphogenesis and cancer.
Small Molecules Antagonise the MIA-Fibronectin Interaction in Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Yip King Tuo , Zhong Xue Yin , Seibel Nadia , Pütz Stefanie , Autzen Jasmin , Gasper Raphael , Hofmann Eckhard , Scherkenbeck Jürgen , Stoll Raphael
Published: May 2016

Melanoma inhibitory activity (MIA), an extracellular protein highly expressed by malignant melanoma cells, plays an important functional role in melanoma development, progression and metastasis. After its secretion, MIA directly interacts with extracellular matrix proteins, such as fibronectin (FN). By this mechanism, MIA actively facilitates focal cell detachment from surrounding structures and strongly promotes tumour cell invasion and migration. Hence, the molecular understanding of MIA’s function provides a promising target for the development of new strategies in malignant melanoma therapy. Here, we describe for the first time the discovery of small molecules that are able to disrupt the MIA-FN complex by selectively binding to a new druggable pocket, which we could identify on MIA by structural analysis and fragment-based screening. Our findings may inspire novel drug discovery efforts aiming at a therapeutically effective treatment of melanoma by targeting MIA.
3D plasmonic crystal metamaterials for ultra-sensitive biosensing
Authors: Aristov Andrey I. , Manousidaki Maria , Danilov Artem , Terzaki Konstantina , Fotakis Costas , Farsari Maria , Kabashin Andrei V.
Published: May 2016

We explore the excitation of plasmons in 3D plasmon crystal metamaterials and report the observation of a delocalized plasmon mode, which provides extremely high spectral sensitivity (>2600 nm per refractive index unit (RIU) change), outperforming all plasmonic counterparts excited in 2D nanoscale geometries, as well as a prominent phase-sensitive response (>3*104 deg. of phase per RIU). Combined with a large surface for bioimmobilization provided by the 3D matrix, the proposed sensor architecture promises a new important landmark in the advancement of plasmonic biosensing technology.
Expression of human Cfdp1 gene in Drosophila reveals new insights into the function of the evolutionarily conserved BCNT protein family
Authors: Messina Giovanni , Atterrato Maria Teresa , Fanti Laura , Giordano Ennio , Dimitri Patrizio
Published: May 2016

The Bucentaur (BCNT) protein family is widely distributed in eukaryotes and is characterized by a highly conserved C-terminal domain. This family was identified two decades ago in ruminants, but its role(s) remained largely unknown. Investigating cellular functions and mechanism of action of BCNT proteins is challenging, because they have been implicated in human craniofacial development. Recently, we found that YETI, the D. melanogaster BCNT, is a chromatin factor that participates to H2A.V deposition. Here we report the effects of in vivo expression of CFDP1, the human BCNT protein, in Drosophila melanogaster. We show that CFDP1, similarly to YETI, binds to chromatin and its expression results in a wide range of abnormalities highly reminiscent of those observed in Yeti null mutants. This indicates that CFDP1 expressed in flies behaves in a dominant negative fashion disrupting the YETI function. Moreover, GST pull-down provides evidence indicating that 1) both YETI and CFDP1 undergo homodimerization and 2) YETI and CFDP1 physically interact each other by forming inactive heterodimers that would trigger the observed dominant-negative effect. Overall, our findings highlight unanticipated evidences suggesting that homodimerization mediated by the BCNT domain is integral to the chromatin functions of BCNT proteins.
PCNA is involved in the EndoQ-mediated DNA repair process in Thermococcales
Authors: Shiraishi Miyako , Ishino Sonoko , Yoshida Kotaro , Yamagami Takeshi , Cann Isaac , Ishino Yoshizumi
Published: May 2016

To maintain genome integrity for transfer to their offspring and to maintain order in cellular processes, all living organisms have DNA repair systems. Besides the well-conserved DNA repair machineries, organisms thriving in extreme environments are expected to have developed efficient repair systems. We recently discovered a novel endonuclease, which cleaves the 5′ side of deoxyinosine, from the hyperthermophilic archaeon, Pyrococcus furiosus. The novel endonuclease, designated as Endonulcease Q (EndoQ), recognizes uracil, abasic site and xanthine, as well as hypoxanthine and cuts the phosphodiester bond at their 5′ sides. To understand the functional process involving EndoQ, we searched for interacting partners of EndoQ and identified Proliferating Cell Nuclear Angigen (PCNA). The EndoQ activity was clearly enhanced by addition of PCNA in vitro. The physical interaction between the two proteins through a PIP-motif of EndoQ and the toroidal structure of PCNA are critical for the stimulation of the endonuclease activity. These findings provide us a clue to elucidate a unique DNA repair system in Archaea.
Evolved resistance to colistin and its loss due to genetic reversion in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Lee Ji-Young , Park Young Kyoung , Chung Eun Seon , Na In Young , Ko Kwan Soo
Published: May 2016

The increased reliance on colistin for treating multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections has resulted in the emergence of colistin-resistantPseudomonas aeruginosa. We attempted to identify genetic contributors to colistin resistancein vitroevolved isogenic colistin-resistant and -susceptible strains of twoP. aeruginosalineages (P5 and P155). Their evolutionary paths to acquisition and loss of colistin resistance were also tracked. Comparative genomic analysis revealed 13 and five colistin resistance determinants in the P5 and P155 lineages, respectively. Lipid A in colistin-resistant mutants was modified through the addition of 4-amino-L-arabinose; this modification was absent in colistin-susceptible revertant strains. Many amino acid substitutions that emerged during the acquisition of colistin resistance were reversed in colistin-susceptible revertants. We demonstrated that evolved colistin resistance inP. aeruginosawas mediated by a complicated regulatory network that likely emerges through diverse genetic alterations. Colistin-resistantP. aeruginosabecame susceptible to the colistin upon its withdrawal because of genetic reversion. The mechanisms through whichP. aeruginosaacquires and loses colistin resistance have implications on the treatment options that can be applied againstP. aeruginosainfections, with respect to improving bactericidal efficacy and preventing further resistance to antibiotics.
Antigen distribution of TMUV and GPV are coincident with the expression profiles of CD8α-positive cells and goose IFNγ
Authors: Zhou Hao , Chen Shun , Wang Mingshu , Jia Renyong , Zhu Dekang , Liu Mafeng , Liu Fei , Yang Qiao , Wu Ying , Sun Kunfeng , Chen Xiaoyue , Jing Bo , Cheng Anchun
Published: May 2016

Both Tembusu virus (TMUV) and goose parvovirus (GPV) are causative agents of goose disease. However, the host immune response of the goose against these two different categories of virus has not been well documented. Here, we compared the clinical symptoms and pathological characteristics, antigen distribution and intensity, and expression of immune-related genes in TMUV- and GPV- infected goose. The immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated that GPV was primarily located in the liver, lung, small intestine, and rectum, while TMUV was situated in the liver, brain, spleen, and small intestine. The induction of IFNγ and proinflammatory cytokines is highly associated with the distribution profiles of antigen and CD8α+ molecules. The effector function of CD8 T cells may be accomplished by the secretion of IFNγ together with high expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL1 and IL6. Remarkably, significant increases in the transcription of immune genes were observed after infection, which suggested that both GPV and TMUV can effectively induce immune response in goose PMBCs. This study will provide fundamental information for goose molecular immunology in defending against pandemic viruses.
Positive impedance humidity sensors via single-component materials
Authors: Qian Jingwen , Peng Zhijian , Shen Zhenguang , Zhao Zengying , Zhang Guoliang , Fu Xiuli
Published: May 2016

Resistivity-type humidity sensors have been investigated with great interest due to the increasing demands in industry, agriculture and daily life. To date, most of the available humidity sensors have been fabricated based on negative humidity impedance, in which the electrical resistance decreases as the humidity increases, and only several carbon composites have been reported to present positive humidity impedance. However, here we fabricate positive impedance humidity sensors only via single-component WO3−x crystals. The resistance of WO3−x crystal sensors in response to relative humidity could be tuned from a negative to positive one by increasing the compositional x. And it was revealed that the positive humidity impedance was driven by the defects of oxygen vacancy. This result will extend the application field of humidity sensors, because the positive humidity impedance sensors would be more energy-efficient, easier to be miniaturized and electrically safer than their negative counterparts for their lower operation voltages. And we believe that constructing vacancies in semiconducting materials is a universal way to fabricate positive impedance humidity sensors.
Type 3 Diabetes: Cross Talk between Differentially Regulated Proteins of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Mittal Khyati , Mani Ruchi Jakhmola , Katare Deepshikha Pande
Published: May 2016

Type 3 Diabetes (T3D) is a neuroendocrine disorder that represents the progression of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). T3D contributes in the increase of the total load of Alzheimer’s patients worldwide. The protein network based strategies were used for the analysis of protein interactions and hypothesis was derived describing the possible routes of communications among proteins. The hypothesis provides the insight on the probable mechanism of the disease progression for T3D. The current study also suggests that insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) could be the major player which holds the capacity to shift T2DM to T3D by altering metabolic pathways like regulation of beta-cell development, negative regulation of PI3K/AKT pathways and amyloid beta degradation.
Reduced graphene oxide-nickel nanoparticles/biopolymer composite films for the sub-millimolar detection of glucose
Authors: Krishna Rahul , Campiña José M. , Fernandes Paula M. V. , Ventura João , Titus Elby , Silva António F.
Published: May 2016

A conjugate of reduced graphene oxide and nickel nanoparticles was synthesized and deposited onto GCE as a nanocomposite of chitosan and glucose oxidase. Applications as a glucose biosensor were explored for the first time.
Visible-light photoredox synthesis of internal alkynes containing quaternary carbons
Authors: Gao Chang , Li Jingjing , Yu Jipan , Yang Haijun , Fu Hua
Published: May 2016

A novel and efficient visible-light photoredox method for the synthesis of internal alkynes containing quaternary carbons has been developedviacoupling reactions ofN-phthalimidoyl oxalates oftert-alcohols with 1-(2-(arylsulfonyl)ethynyl)benzenes. The reactions proceeded well at room temperature with good functional group tolerability.
Exceptional photosensitivity of a polyoxometalate-based charge-transfer hybrid material
Authors: Liao Jian-Zhen , Wu Chen , Wu Xiao-Yuan , Deng Shui-Quan , Lu Can-Zhong
Published: May 2016

Exceptional light sensitivity was realized in a polyoxometalate-based hybrid material due to cooperative multicomponent molecular charge-transfer interactions taking place in this material. The π-acidic NDI linkers and POM clusters in the hybrid material were designed as photosensors and electronic reservoirs, respectively.
Adsorption of acrolein, propanal, and allyl alcohol on Pd(111): a combined infrared reflection–absorption spectroscopy and temperature programmed desorption study
Authors: Dostert Karl-Heinz , O'Brien Casey P. , Mirabella Francesca , Ivars-Barceló Francisco , Schauermann Swetlana
Published: May 2016

We present a mechanistic study on adsorption of acrolein and its partial hydrogenation products propanal and allyl alcohol over Pd(111) to understand the factors governing the selectivity in acrolein hydrogenation.
Hierarchical dandelion-flower-like cobalt-phosphide modified CdS/reduced graphene oxide-MoS2 nanocomposites as a noble-metal-free catalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution from water
Authors: Reddy D. Amaranatha , Choi Jiha , Lee Seunghee , Kim Yujin , Hong Sangyeob , Kumar D. Praveen , Kim Tae Kyu
Published: May 2016

This work demonstrates the facile synthesis of CdS/RGO-MoS2@CoP photocatalyst for H2 production via water splitting.
Ni induces the CRR1-dependent regulon revealing overlap and distinction between hypoxia and Cu deficiency responses in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Blaby-Haas Crysten E. , Castruita Madeli , Fitz-Gibbon Sorel T. , Kropat Janette , Merchant Sabeeha S.
Published: May 2016

Combinatorial genome-wide analyses of transcriptome changes in response to genetic mutation and environmental perturbations give insight into a network of oxygen, copper and nickel signaling.
The effect of detonation polycrystalline diamond modification on the thermal decomposition of RDX
Authors: Tong Yi , Liu Rui , Zhang Tonglai
Published: May 2016

A moderate amount of DPD modification as a catalyst accelerated the decomposition of RDX, while excess modification conversely obstructed the decomposition.
Synthesis and anti-tubercular activity of fused thieno-/furo-quinoline compounds
Authors: Akula Mahesh , Yogeeswari P. , Sriram D. , Jha Mukund , Bhattacharya Anupam
Published: May 2016

Simple two step synthesis of fused thieno-/furo-quinoline (or [1,8]-naphthyridine) compounds by sequential application of Suzuki coupling and modified Pictet–Spengler synthesis.
The template-free synthesis of hierarchically porous anatase TiO2via acid-etching for enhancing the cycling stability and reversible capacity of lithium ion batteries
Authors: Wang Xiaobing , Jia Zhichao , Liu Fuyuan , Liang Huijun , You Xinxin , Wang Kui , Lou Xiangdong , Shuang Wei , Xiao Lichun , Cai Bibo , Yang Lin
Published: May 2016

Two-dimensional hierarchically porous anatase TiO2is fabricated through acetic acid etching. It exhibit high electrochemical stability and high reversible capacity in lithium ion battery.
Single step synthesis of a polymer supported palladium composite: a potential anode catalyst for the application of methanol oxidation
Authors: Siwal Samarjeet , Choudhary Meenakshi , Mpelane Siyasanga , Brink Raugme , Mallick Kaushik
Published: May 2016

Polymer supported ionic palladium has been synthesized using a single step,in situpolymerization and composite formation route from the corresponding monomer and metal salt precursors.
The effect of copper species in copper-ceria catalysts: structure evolution and enhanced performance in CO oxidation
Authors: Zhu Wenshuang , Tang Ke , Li Jing , Liu Wei , Niu Xiaoran , Zhao Genyuan , Ma Xueqin , Liu Zhaohui , Wei Huiying , Yang Yanzhao
Published: May 2016

The copper content of copper-ceria catalysts effects the structure evolution and performance in CO oxidation.
Computational approaches to predict binding interactions between mammalian tyrosinases and (S)-(+)-decursin and its analogues as potent inhibitors
Authors: Jung Sang Won , Lee Kyeong , Cho Art E.
Published: May 2016

Using computational methods, we elucidated the binding modes of (S)-(+)-decursin with mouse and human tyrosinases, and thereby provided insight to new tyrosinase inhibitors.
New insights into the biosynthesis of fosfazinomycin
Authors: Huang Zedu , Wang Kwo-Kwang Abraham , van der Donk Wilfred A.
Published: May 2016

The biosynthetic origin of a unique hydrazide moiety in the phosphonate natural product fosfazinomycin is investigated.
Nanoporous Mn-based electrocatalysts through thermal conversion of cyano-bridged coordination polymers toward ultra-high efficiency hydrogen peroxide production
Authors: Zakaria Mohamed B. , Li Cuiling , Pramanik Malay , Tsujimoto Yoshihiro , Hu Ming , Malgras Victor , Tominaka Satoshi , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: May 2016

Nanoporous Mn-based electrocatalysts are realized through thermal conversion of cyano-bridged coordination polymers.
The outstanding mechanical response and bone regeneration capacity of robocast dilute magnesium-doped wollastonite scaffolds in critical size bone defects
Authors: Liu An , Sun Miao , Shao Huifeng , Yang Xianyan , Ma Chiyuan , He Dongshuang , Gao Qing , Liu Yanming , Yan Shigui , Xu Sanzhong , He Yong , Fu Jianzhong , Gou Zhongru
Published: May 2016

Mechanically strong, highly osteogenic dilute magnesium-doped wollastonite robocast scaffolds.
Correction: Dye colour switching by hydride-terminated silicon particles and its application as an oxygen indicator
Authors: Ye Miaomiao , Qian Chenxi , Sun Wei , He Le , Jia Jia , Dong Yuchan , Zhou Wenjie
Published: May 2016

Correction for ‘Dye colour switching by hydride-terminated silicon particles and its application as an oxygen indicator’ by Miaomiao Ye et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c6tc00749j.
Performance of switching‐based partial relay selection scheme for amplify‐and‐forward cognitive relay networks
Authors: Chu Shao‐I , Lien Chih‐Yuan , Chiu Chien‐Liang
Published: May 2016

The outage probabilities (OPs) of cognitive amplify‐and‐forward systems with the conventional and the switching‐based partial relay selection (PRS) schemes over independent but not identically distributed Rayleigh fading channels are evaluated. The conventional PRS scheme always depends on the instantaneous channel quality of the first hop, while the switching‐based PRS scheme is based on the estimated average channel state information (CSI) of the first and second hops. For the switching‐based PRS scheme, the instantaneous CSI for links with the smaller average channel power in the first and the second hops for each end‐to‐end path is used for relay selection. Thus, the switching‐based PRS scheme counts on the instantaneous CSI of either the first or second hop. The tight lower bounds and asymptotic expressions of the OP are derived. The feedback overheads of both schemes are discussed. Simulation results substantiate the theoretical analysis and also reveal that the switching‐based PRS outperforms the conventional one over the cognitive relay networks in terms of OP.
Interfacing transient stability and extended harmonic domain for dynamic harmonic analysis of power systems
Authors: Mazhari Seyed Mahdi , Kouhsari Shahram Montaser , Ramirez Abner , Karami Ehsan
Published: May 2016

This study presents a novel methodology for steady and dynamic states harmonic analysis of power systems. It employs a decomposition framework so that harmonic‐producing devices are considered as separate subsystems which are solved via the extended harmonic domain (EHD) technique. The EHD is inherently a frequency domain dependent solution method that provides dynamic harmonic indices based on operational matrices. The remaining system is modelled and resolved via commonly used harmonic analysis methods while transient stability (TS) is conducted (at fundamental frequency) to account for dynamic behaviour of generators and controllers. Interfacing of EHD and TS solutions is performed via an iterative scheme. As for steady‐state initialisation, an efficient and robust algorithm is proposed in this study. The proposed method is implemented in an existing software package and applied to IEEE 9‐bus test system. A thorough comparison of the proposed method with the PSCAD/EMTDC software tool is also presented.
Scenario reduction, network aggregation, and DC linearisation: which simplifications matter most in operations and planning optimisation?
Authors: Shayesteh Ebrahim , Hobbs Benjamin F. , Amelin Mikael
Published: May 2016

Power economic studies are challenging because of growing system sizes, the advance of smart grids, and economic, technical, and policy unknowns. Consequently, system models must be simplified so that they can be solved with many scenarios of renewable output, load, and long‐run uncertainties. Scenario reduction, network aggregation, and DC linearisation are three common simplifications. The authors compare their errors and computation times for optimal power flow (OPF) and stochastic unit commitment (SUC), using the IEEE 14‐, 30‐, and 118‐bus test systems, and also briefly discuss impacts on generation and transmission planning. The authors find that the most appropriate simplification depends on the study type, and there are no consistent results concerning which simplification is most distorting. The following example conclusions apply to these cases, but not universally; nonetheless, the findings provide information about what simplifications can matter, which is a helpful starting point for practicing modellers. The authors find that linearisation's disregarding of losses distorts total costs in OPFs, but it causes relatively little error in SUC. Scenario reduction reduces OPF computational times with little distortion but is less effective for SUC. Network aggregation decreases computation effort more than linearisation in OPF, but causes little error unless there are few scenarios.
Approach for the solution of transmission congestion with multi‐type FACTS devices
Authors: Bhattacharyya Biplab , Kumar Sanjay
Published: May 2016

This study presents gravitational search algorithm (GSA)‐based optimisation technique for the optimum co‐ordination of multi‐type flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices with the existing reactive power sources present in a connected power network. Three types of FACTS devices: namely, unified power flow controller, static var compensator and thyristor controlled series capacitor are used in the present problem and IEEE‐30 and IEEE‐57 bus systems are taken as standard test systems. The existing reactive power sources are reactive generations of the generators and transformer tap setting arrangements. The main objective of the present study is to reduce active power loss, system operating cost including the cost of FACTS devices and congestion in transmission network. The result obtained with the proposed GSA‐based approach is compared with the results obtained by genetic algorithm, differential evolution and particle swarm optimisation techniques. It is observed that by optimal placement of FACTS devices along with the optimal setting of the transformer tap arrangements and control of reactive generations of the generators line loss, system operating cost and transmission congestion is reduced significantly by the GSA‐based method compared with other methods.