bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Metabolic Rates in Off‐Channel Habitats of the Middle Mississippi River
Authors: Sobotka M. J. , Phelps Q. E.
Published: September 2016

Autochthonous material has been found to be an important base in large river food webs. However, a spatial understanding of primary production in large rivers is lacking. We modeled primary productivity and community respiration (CR) during a low water period in two types of off‐channel habitat present in the Middle Mississippi River, side channels and wing dike fields. Wing dike fields are constantly connected to the main channel and are well mixed along most of their length, while side channels are typically connected only at the top and mouth. Gross primary production (GPP) in wing dike fields ranged from 0.0 to 8.9 g O2 m−2 D−1 and in side channels GPP ranged from 0.4 to 33.5 g O2 m−2 D−1. Both habitat types experienced periods of positive net ecosystem production (NEP) especially in the late summer and early fall. Correlations between metabolic rates and ecosystem characteristics differed between habitat types. Discharge was negatively correlated to NEP in wing dike fields but was not associated with metabolic rates in side channels. Light was positively correlated with GPP and CR at both site types and with NEP in side channels. These areas are protected from high velocity and likely experience greater light penetration, allowing more photosynthesis to take place especially during low water periods. This study demonstrates the potential for high productivity in off‐channel habitats that are permanently connected to the main channel. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate Enhanced Solar Energy Conversion by Photogalvanic Effect of Rhodamine B‐Fructose in Artificial Light
Authors: Koli Pooran
Published: September 2016

The present study has been done to improve the solar power and storage capacity of the Rhodamine B‐Fructose system with small Pt electrode by use of Sodium Lauryl Sulphate surfactant in the artificial light. With additional scope for reduction of the cost, the present study has shown greatly enhanced performance in terms of electrical parameters like power 336.05 μW, short‐circuit current 1150 μA, and conversion efficiency ∼11.28 %.
Copper (II) Oxide Nanoparticles as an Efficient Catalyst in the Azide–AlkyneCycloaddition
Authors: Amini Mojtaba , Pourvahabi Anbari Alireza , Ramezani Sakine , Gautam Sanjeev , Hwa Chae Keun
Published: September 2016

Copper (II) oxide nanorods and nanospheres were prepared and their structural, morphological, and electronic properties were investigated by X‐ray diffraction analysis, X‐ray absorption near edge structure, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope.CuO nanoparticles efficiently catalyzes azide‐alkyne 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction producing corresponding 1,2,3‐triazole derivatives in excellent yields without use of any additives. The advantages of present protocol are mild reaction conditions, reusability of the catalyst, and applicability to a wide range of substrates.
A Systematic Framework for the Design and Implementation of a Quality Management Practice: The Case of a Consulting Engineering Company
Authors: Mata‐Lima Herlander , Morgado‐Dias Fernando , Galuzzi da Silva Marina Carrato , Alcântara Kelly , Almeida José António
Published: September 2016

Company productivity and competitiveness in today's marketplace requires creative design, innovation, and the reduction of nonconformances, which require costly rework and can damage a firm's reputation with its customers and potential customers. Using the International Organisation of Standardization's (ISO) 9000 and 14000 series of standards, the authors of this article walk readers through the rigorous process of obtaining upper management buy‐in and sponsorship and engaging workers in a bottom‐up approach to establish the procedures necessary to perform world‐class engineering services.
Treatment of Agro‐Based Industry Wastewater by the Electro‐Oxidation Method: Comparative Results From Iron and Aluminum Metal Plate
Authors: Sahu Omprakash
Published: September 2016

Among the various technologies available to treat wastewater from sugar production, electro‐oxidation, or electrocoagulation, is considered one of the best. Moreover, it is a cost‐effective method. Although it is considered an advanced form of chemical coagulation, it does not require the addition of chemical coagulants, as the coagulant is generated through the dissolution of the sacrificial anodes that are connected to the electric current in the treatment chamber. This article examines how an electro‐oxidation system can be established and explores the variables that affect the process.
Disorders related to sexuality and gender identity in the ICD‐11: revising the ICD‐10 classification based on current scientific evidence, best clinical practices, and human rights considerations
Authors: Reed Geoffrey M. , Drescher Jack , Krueger Richard B. , Atalla Elham , Cochran Susan D. , First Michael B. , Cohen‐Kettenis Peggy T. , Arango‐de Montis Iván , Parish Sharon J. , Cottler Sara , Briken Peer , Saxena Shekhar
Published: September 2016

In the World Health Organization's forthcoming eleventh revision of the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD‐11), substantial changes have been proposed to the ICD‐10 classification of mental and behavioural disorders related to sexuality and gender identity. These concern the following ICD‐10 disorder groupings: F52 Sexual dysfunctions, not caused by organic disorder or disease; F64 Gender identity disorders; F65 Disorders of sexual preference; and F66 Psychological and behavioural disorders associated with sexual development and orientation. Changes have been proposed based on advances in research and clinical practice, and major shifts in social attitudes and in relevant policies, laws, and human rights standards. This paper describes the main recommended changes, the rationale and evidence considered, and important differences from the DSM‐5. An integrated classification of sexual dysfunctions has been proposed for a new chapter on Conditions Related to Sexual Health, overcoming the mind/body separation that is inherent in ICD‐10. Gender identity disorders in ICD‐10 have been reconceptualized as Gender incongruence, and also proposed to be moved to the new chapter on sexual health. The proposed classification of Paraphilic disorders distinguishes between conditions that are relevant to public health and clinical psychopathology and those that merely reflect private behaviour. ICD‐10 categories related to sexual orientation have been recommended for deletion from the ICD‐11.
Neurodegeneration and RNA‐binding proteins
Authors: De Conti Laura , Baralle Marco , Buratti Emanuele
Published: September 2016

In the eukaryotic nucleus, RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) play a very important role in the life cycle of both coding and noncoding RNAs. As soon as they are transcribed, in fact, all RNA molecules within a cell are bound by distinct sets of RBPs that have the task of regulating its correct processing, transport, stability, and function/translation up to its final degradation. These tasks are particularly important in cells that have a complex RNA metabolism, such as neurons. Not surprisingly, therefore, recent findings have shown that the misregulation of genes involved in RNA metabolism or the autophagy/proteasome pathway plays an important role in the onset and progression of several neurodegenerative diseases. In this article, we aim to review the recent advances that link neurodegenerative processes and RBP proteins. WIREs RNA 2017, 8:e1394. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1394

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA–Protein Complexes

RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
RNA‐binding proteins implicated in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Cookson Mark R
Published: September 2016

Gene expression is regulated at many levels, including after generation of the primary RNA transcript from DNA but before translation into protein. Such post‐translational gene regulation occurs via the action of a multitude of RNA binding proteins and include varied actions from splicing to regulation of association with the translational machinery. Primary evidence that such processes might contribute to disease mechanisms in neurodegenerative disorders comes from the observation of mutations in RNA binding proteins, particularly in diseases in the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis‐frontotemporal dementia spectrum and in some forms of ataxia and tremor. The bulk of evidence from recent surveys of the types of RNA species that are affected in these disorders suggests a global deregulation of control rather than a very small number of RNA species, although why some groups of neurons are sensitive to these changes is not well understood. Overall, these data suggest that neurodegeneration can be initiated by mutations in RNA binding proteins and, as a corollary, that neurons are particularly sensitive to loss of control of gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level. Such observations have implications not only for understanding the nature of neurodegenerative disorders but also how we might intervene therapeutically in these diseases. WIREs RNA 2017, 8:e1397. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1397

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Recognition

Translation > Translation Regulation

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
Lipase‐Catalyzed Production of Biodiesel by Hydrolysis of Waste Cooking Oil Followed by Esterification of Free Fatty Acids
Authors: Vescovi Vinicius , Rojas Mayerlenis Jimenez , Baraldo Anderson , Botta Daniel Carrero , Santana Felipe Augusto Montes , Costa Julia Piva , Machado Mariana Stefani , Honda Vitor Kasuyoshi , de Lima Camargo Giordano Raquel , Tardioli Paulo Waldir
Published: September 2016

Biodiesel is conventionally produced by alkaline‐catalyzed transesterification, which requires high‐purity oils. However, low‐quality oils can be used as feedstocks for the production of biodiesel by enzyme‐catalyzed reactions. The use of enzymes has several advantages, such as the absence of saponification side reactions, production of high‐purity glycerol co‐product, and low‐cost downstream processing. In this work, biodiesel was produced from lipase‐catalyzed hydrolysis of waste cooking oil (WCO) followed by esterification of the hydrolyzed WCO (HWCO). The hydrolysis of acylglycerols was carried out at 30 °C in salt‐free water (WCO/water ratio of 1:4, v/v) and the esterification of HWCO was carried out at 40 °C with ethanol in a solvent‐free medium (HWCO/ethanol molar ratio of 1:7). The hydrolysis and esterification steps were carried out using immobilized Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase (TLL/WCO ratio of 1:5.6, w/w) and immobilized Candida antarctica lipase B (10 wt%, CALB/HWCO) as biocatalysts, respectively. The hydrolysis of acylglycerols was almost complete after 12 h (ca. 94 %), and in the esterification step, the conversion was around 90 % after 6 h. The purified biodiesel had 91.8 wt% of fatty acid ethyl esters, 0.53 wt% of acylglycerols, 0.003 wt% of free glycerol, viscosity of 4.59 cP, and acid value of 10.88 mg KOH/g. Reuse hydrolysis and esterification assays showed that the immobilized enzymes could be recycled five times in 10‐h batches, under the conditions described above. TLL was greatly inactivated under the assay conditions, whereas CALB remained fully active. The results showed that WCO is a promising feedstock for use in the production of biodiesel.
Adverse early life environment increases hippocampal microglia abundance in conjunction with decreased neural stem cells in juvenile mice
Authors: Cohen Susan , Ke Xingrao , Liu Qiuli , Fu Qi , Majnik Amber , Lane Robert
Published: September 2016

Background

Adverse maternal lifestyle resulting in adverse early life environment (AELE) increases risks for neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring. Neuropsychiatric disorders are associated with impaired neurogenesis and neuro‐inflammation in the hippocampus (HP). Microglia are neuro‐inflammatory cells in the brain that regulate neurogenesis via toll‐like receptors (TLR). TLR‐9 is implicated in neurogenesis inhibition and is responsible for stress‐related inflammatory responses. We hypothesized that AELE would increase microglia cell count and increase TLR‐9 expression in juvenile mouse HP. These increases in microglia cell count and TLR‐9 expression would be associated with decrease neural stem cell count and neuronal cell count.

Methods

We developed a mouse model of AELE combining Western diet and a stress environment. Stress environment consisted of random change from embryonic day 13 (E13) to E17 as well as static change in maternal environment from E13 to postnatal day 21(P21). At P21, we measured hippocampal cell numbers of microglia, neural stem cell and neuron, as well as hippocampal TLR‐9 expression.

Results

AELE significantly increased total microglia number and TLR‐9 expression in the hippocampus. Concurrently, AELE significantly decreased neural stem cell and neuronal numbers.

Conclusions

AELE increased the neuro‐inflammatory cellular response in the juvenile HP. We speculate that increased neuro‐inflammatory responses may contribute to impaired neurogenesis seen in this model.
Determinants of Women's Sexual Dissatisfaction: Assessing a Cognitive-Emotional Model
Authors: Abdolmanafi Atefe , Owens Richard Glynn , Winter Sam , Jahromi Reza Ghorban , Peixoto Maria Manuela , Nobre Pedro
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Recent studies have demonstrated the role of sexual dysfunctional beliefs, negative automatic thoughts, and emotional responses in relation to sexual functioning. Nevertheless, no studies seem to have evaluated the role of these cognitive-emotional factors in determining sexual dissatisfaction.

Aim

To test a cognitive-emotional model of sexual dissatisfaction in women.

Methods

In total, 207 women answered questionnaires assessing sexual dissatisfaction and cognitive and emotional variables that might affect sexual dissatisfaction.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual dissatisfaction was measured by the Index of Sexual Satisfaction, sexual beliefs were measured by the Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire, and thoughts and emotional responses were measured by the Sexual Modes Questionnaire.

Results

A path analysis was conducted to assess the conceptual model proposed. Results indicated that dysfunctional sexual beliefs work as predisposing factors by eliciting negative automatic thoughts and emotions, which impair the processing of erotic stimuli and interfere negatively with sexual satisfaction.

Conclusion

This finding suggests a role for cognitive and emotional factors in predisposing and maintaining sexual dissatisfaction in women, suggesting relevant implications for intervention.
Body Image in Transmen: Multidimensional Measurement and the Effects of Mastectomy
Authors: van de Grift Tim C. , Kreukels Baudewijntje P.C. , Elfering Lian , Özer Müjde , Bouman Mark-Bram , Buncamper Marlon E. , Smit Jan Maerten , Mullender Margriet G.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Transmen are generally dissatisfied with their breasts and often opt for mastectomy. However, little is known about the specific effects of this procedure on this group’s body image.

Aim

To prospectively assess the effect of mastectomy on the body image of transmen, including cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects.

Methods

During a 10-month period, all transmen applying for mastectomy were invited to participate in this study. The 33 participants completed assessments preoperatively and at least 6 months postoperatively.

Main Outcome Measures

Participants were surveyed on body satisfaction (Body Image Scale for Transsexuals), body attitudes (Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire), appearance schemas (Appearance Schemas Inventory), situational bodily feelings (Situational Inventory of Body Image Dysphoria), body image-related quality of life (Body Image Quality of Life Inventory), and self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale). Control values were retrieved from the literature and a college sample.

Results

Before surgery, transmen reported less positive body attitudes and satisfaction, a lower self-esteem and body image-related quality of life compared with cisgender men and women. Mastectomy improved body satisfaction most strongly, although respondents reported improvements in all domains (eg, decreased dysphoria when looking in the mirror and improved feelings of self-worth). Most outcome measurements were strongly correlated.

Conclusion

Mastectomy improves body image beyond satisfaction with chest appearance alone. Body satisfaction and feelings of “passing” in social situations are associated with a higher quality of life and self-esteem.
Dysregulation of histone methyltransferases in breast cancer – Opportunities for new targeted therapies?
Authors: Michalak Ewa M. , Visvader Jane E.
Published: September 2016

Histone methyltransferases (HMTs) catalyze the methylation of lysine and arginine residues on histone tails and non‐histone targets. These important post‐translational modifications are exquisitely regulated and affect chromatin compaction and transcriptional programs leading to diverse biological outcomes. There is accumulating evidence that genetic alterations of several HMTs impinge on oncogenic or tumor‐suppressor functions and influence both cancer initiation and progression. HMTs therefore represent an opportunity for therapeutic targeting in those patients with tumors in which HMTs are dysregulated, to reverse the histone marks and transcriptional programs associated with aggressive tumor behavior. In this review, we describe the known histone methyltransferases and their emerging roles in breast cancer tumorigenesis.
A retrospective cohort study examining treatments and operative interventions for frostbite in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Fabian Jaroslav Christopher , Taljaard Monica , Perry Jeffrey J.
Published: September 2016

Background

Frostbite is a common yet challenging injury to both diagnose and treat. McCauley’s frostbite treatment protocol consists of 12 treatments that might well represent the standard of care. However, its effectiveness in preventing operative intervention has yet to be examined. Our objectives were to characterize frostbite injuries in Eastern Ontario, identify risk factors for deep injuries, and assess the protocol’s efficacy in preventing operative outcomes.

Methods

This cohort study examined patients with frostbite over ten years at a tertiary care hospital. Demographics and predisposing factors were recorded. Frostbite severity was categorized into superficial or deep. Treatments were recorded, including adherence to protocol and operative outcome.

Results

Of the 265 frostbite patients identified, deep frostbite accounted for 56 (21.1%, 95% CI: 16.2–26.1%), of whom 20 (35.7%) had an operative outcome. Amputation occurred in 16 (28.6%) of deep injuries and debridement in 5 (8.9%). Risk factors for deep frostbite were older age (p=0.002), smoking (p<0.001), male sex (p=0.056) and alcohol abuse (p=0.056). None of the patients with deep frostbite had all 12 treatments performed. Adherence to protocol ranged from 0.0% to 48.2% per treatment. The rate of operative intervention was 7.7% in patients with deep frostbite who did not have any McCauley’s frostbite treatments and ranged from 0.0% to 100.0% per treatment in those who did receive treatments.

Conclusions

The frostbite protocol was not regularly followed and therefore its efficacy in preventing operative intervention could not be determined. Further, none of the individual treatments in the protocol were associated with preventing operative intervention. We recommend that future research focus on identifying effective individual treatments.
Search for Annual 14C Excursions in the Past
Authors: Miyake Fusa , Masuda Kimiaki , Nakamura Toshio , Kimura Katsuhiko , Hakozaki Masataka , Jull A J Timothy , Lange Todd E , Cruz Richard , Panyushkina Irina P , Baisan Chris , Salzer Matthew W
Published: September 2016

Two radiocarbon excursions (AD 774–775 and AD 993–994) occurred due to an increase of incoming cosmic rays on a short timescale. The most plausible cause of these events is considered to be extreme solar proton events (SPE). It is possible that there are other annual 14C excursions in the past that have yet to be confirmed. In order to detect more of these events, we measured the 14C contents in bristlecone pine tree-ring samples during the periods when the rate of 14C increase in the IntCal data is large. We analyzed four periods every other year (2479–2455 BC, 4055–4031 BC, 4465–4441 BC, and 4689–4681 BC), and found no anomalous 14C excursions during these periods. This study confirms that it is important to do continuous measurements to find annual cosmic-ray events at other locations in the tree-ring record.
Effects of a transdiagnostic unguided Internet intervention (‘velibra’) for anxiety disorders in primary care: results of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Berger T. , Urech A. , Krieger T. , Stolz T. , Schulz A. , Vincent A. , Moser C. T. , Moritz S. , Meyer B.
Published: September 2016

Background

Internet-based cognitive–behavioural treatment (ICBT) for anxiety disorders has shown some promise, but no study has yet examined unguided ICBT in primary care. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigated whether a transdiagnostic, unguided ICBT programme for anxiety disorders is effective in primary care settings, after a face-to-face consultation with a physician (MD). We hypothesized that care as usual (CAU) plus unguided ICBT would be superior to CAU in reducing anxiety and related symptoms among patients with social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder with or without agoraphobia (PDA) and/or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Method

Adults (n = 139) with at least one of these anxiety disorders, as reported by their MD and confirmed by a structured diagnostic interview, were randomized. Unguided ICBT was provided by a novel transdiagnostic ICBT programme (‘velibra’). Primary outcomes were generic measures, such as anxiety and depression symptom severity, and diagnostic status at post-treatment (9 weeks). Secondary outcomes included anxiety disorder-specific measures, quality of life, treatment adherence, satisfaction, and general psychiatric symptomatology at follow-up (6 months after randomization).

Results

CAU plus unguided ICBT was more effective than CAU at post-treatment, with small to medium between-group effect sizes on primary (Cohen's d = 0.41–0.47) and secondary (Cohen's d = 0.16–0.61) outcomes. Treatment gains were maintained at follow-up. In the treatment group, 28.2% of those with a SAD diagnosis, 38.3% with a PDA diagnosis, and 44.8% with a GAD diagnosis at pretreatment no longer fulfilled diagnostic criteria at post-treatment.

Conclusions

The unguided ICBT intervention examined is effective for anxiety disorders when delivered in primary care.
Work–Home Interface and Well-Being
Authors: Babic Audrey , Stinglhamber Florence , Bertrand Françoise , Hansez Isabelle
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Much effort has been expended in the past decade to examine the causal relationship between work–family conflict (WFC) and negative indicators of well-being. Comparatively little is known about the effects of work–family enrichment (WFE) on well-being. Even more importantly, very few studies have examined the concomitant effects of both WFC and WFE in terms of well-being. This study aims to fill these gaps by investigating the directionality of the causal relationships between WFC, WFE, and two well-being variables (i.e., job strain and job engagement). We examined these relationships using a two-wave cross-lagged panel design. Our sample was composed of 978 workers from a Belgian Federal Public Service. Reciprocal relationships were found between WFC–job strain, WFC–job engagement, and WFE–job engagement.
Subnatural-linewidth biphotons from a Doppler-broadened hot atomic vapour cell
Authors: Shu Chi , Chen Peng , Chow Tsz Kiu Aaron , Zhu Lingbang , Xiao Yanhong , Loy M.M.T. , Du Shengwang
Published: September 2016

Entangled photon pairs, termed as biphotons, have been the benchmark tool for experimental quantum optics. The quantum-network protocols based on photon–atom interfaces have stimulated a great demand for single photons with bandwidth comparable to or narrower than the atomic natural linewidth. In the past decade, laser-cooled atoms have often been used for producing such biphotons, but the apparatus is too large and complicated for engineering. Here we report the generation of subnatural-linewidth (<6 MHz) biphotons from a Doppler-broadened (530 MHz) hot atomic vapour cell. We use on-resonance spontaneous four-wave mixing in a hot paraffin-coated 87Rb vapour cell at 63 °C to produce biphotons with controllable bandwidth (1.9–3.2 MHz) and coherence time (47–94 ns). Our backward phase-matching scheme with spatially separated optical pumping is the key to suppress uncorrelated photons from resonance fluorescence. The result may lead towards miniature narrowband biphoton sources.
GDF11 decreases bone mass by stimulating osteoclastogenesis and inhibiting osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Liu Weiqing , Zhou Liyan , Zhou Chenchen , Zhang Shiwen , Jing Junjun , Xie Liang , Sun Ningyuan , Duan Xiaobo , Jing Wei , Liang Xing , Zhao Hu , Ye Ling , Chen Qianming , Yuan Quan
Published: September 2016

Osteoporosis is an age-related disease that affects millions of people. Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is a secreted member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily. Deletion of Gdf11 has been shown to result in a skeletal anterior–posterior patterning disorder. Here we show a role for GDF11 in bone remodelling. GDF11 treatment leads to bone loss in both young and aged mice. GDF11 inhibits osteoblast differentiation and also stimulates RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis through Smad2/3 and c-Fos-dependent induction of Nfatc1. Injection of GDF11 impairs bone regeneration in mice and blocking GDF11 function prevents oestrogen-deficiency-induced bone loss and ameliorates age-related osteoporosis. Our data demonstrate that GDF11 is a previously unrecognized regulator of bone remodelling and suggest that GDF11 is a potential target for treatment of osteoporosis.
An imbalance between specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators and pro-inflammatory leukotrienes promotes instability of atherosclerotic plaques
Authors: Fredman Gabrielle , Hellmann Jason , Proto Jonathan D. , Kuriakose George , Colas Romain A. , Dorweiler Bernhard , Connolly E. Sander , Solomon Robert , Jones David M. , Heyer Eric J. , Spite Matthew , Tabas Ira
Published: September 2016

Chronic unresolved inflammation plays a causal role in the development of advanced atherosclerosis, but the mechanisms that prevent resolution in atherosclerosis remain unclear. Here, we use targeted mass spectrometry to identify specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPM) in histologically-defined stable and vulnerable regions of human carotid atherosclerotic plaques. The levels of SPMs, particularly resolvin D1 (RvD1), and the ratio of SPMs to pro-inflammatory leukotriene B4 (LTB4), are significantly decreased in the vulnerable regions. SPMs are also decreased in advanced plaques of fat-fed Ldlr−/− mice. Administration of RvD1 to these mice during plaque progression restores the RvD1:LTB4 ratio to that of less advanced lesions and promotes plaque stability, including decreased lesional oxidative stress and necrosis, improved lesional efferocytosis, and thicker fibrous caps. These findings provide molecular support for the concept that defective inflammation resolution contributes to the formation of clinically dangerous plaques and offer a mechanistic rationale for SPM therapy to promote plaque stability.
The Macronova in GRB 050709 and the GRB-macronova connection
Authors: Jin Zhi-Ping , Hotokezaka Kenta , Li Xiang , Tanaka Masaomi , D’Avanzo Paolo , Fan Yi-Zhong , Covino Stefano , Wei Da-Ming , Piran Tsvi
Published: September 2016

GRB 050709 was the first short Gamma-ray Burst (sGRB) with an identified optical counterpart. Here we report a reanalysis of the publicly available data of this event and the discovery of a Li-Paczynski macronova/kilonova that dominates the optical/infrared signal at t>2.5 days. Such a signal would arise from 0.05 "Equation missing" r-process material launched by a compact binary merger. The implied mass ejection supports the suggestion that compact binary mergers are significant and possibly main sites of heavy r-process nucleosynthesis. Furthermore, we have reanalysed all afterglow data from nearby short and hybrid GRBs (shGRBs). A statistical study of shGRB/macronova connection reveals that macronova may have taken place in all these GRBs, although the fraction as low as 0.18 cannot be ruled out. The identification of two of the three macronova candidates in the I-band implies a more promising detection prospect for ground-based surveys.
Primary thermometry triad at 6 mK in mesoscopic circuits
Authors: Iftikhar Z. , Anthore A. , Jezouin S. , Parmentier F. D. , Jin Y. , Cavanna A. , Ouerghi A. , Gennser U. , Pierre F.
Published: September 2016

Quantum physics emerge and develop as temperature is reduced. Although mesoscopic electrical circuits constitute an outstanding platform to explore quantum behaviour, the challenge in cooling the electrons impedes their potential. The strong coupling of such micrometre-scale devices with the measurement lines, combined with the weak coupling to the substrate, makes them extremely difficult to thermalize below 10 mK and imposes in situ thermometers. Here we demonstrate electronic quantum transport at 6 mK in micrometre-scale mesoscopic circuits. The thermometry methods are established by the comparison of three in situ primary thermometers, each involving a different underlying physics. The employed combination of quantum shot noise, quantum back action of a resistive circuit and conductance oscillations of a single-electron transistor covers a remarkably broad spectrum of mesoscopic phenomena. The experiment, performed in vacuum using a standard cryogen-free dilution refrigerator, paves the way towards the sub-millikelvin range with additional thermalization and refrigeration techniques.
The discovery of the hydrogen bond from p-Nitrothiophenol by Raman spectroscopy: Guideline for the thioalcohol molecule recognition tool
Authors: Ling Yun , Xie Wen Chang , Liu Guo Kun , Yan Run Wen , Wu De Yin , Tang Jing
Published: September 2016

Inter- and intra- molecular hydrogen bonding plays important role in determining molecular structure, physical and chemical properties, which may be easily ignored for molecules with a non-typical hydrogen bonding structure. We demonstrated in this paper that the hydrogen bonding is responsible for the different Raman spectra in solid and solution states of p-Nitrothiophenol (PNTP). The consistence of the theoretical calculation and experiment reveals that the intermolecular hydrogen bonding yields an octatomic ring structure "Equation missing" (8) of PNTP in the solid state, confirmed by the characteristic S-H---O stretching vibration mode at 2550 cm−1; when it comes to the solution state, the breakage of hydrogen bond of S-H---O induced the S-H stretching vibration at 2590 cm−1. Our findings may provide a simple and fast method for identifying the intermolecular hydrogen bonding.
Degradable Organically-Derivatized Polyoxometalate with Enhanced Activity against Glioblastoma Cell Line
Authors: She Shan , Bian Shengtai , Huo Ruichao , Chen Kun , Huang Zehuan , Zhang Jiangwei , Hao Jian , Wei Yongge
Published: September 2016

High efficacy and low toxicity are critical for cancer treatment. Polyoxometalates (POMs) have been reported as potential candidates for cancer therapy. On accounts of the slow clearance of POMs, leading to long-term toxicity, the clinical application of POMs in cancer treatment is restricted. To address this problem, a degradable organoimido derivative of hexamolybdate is developed by modifying it with a cleavable organic group, leading to its degradation. Of note, this derivative exhibits favourable pharmacodynamics towards human malignant glioma cell (U251), the ability to penetrate across blood brain barrier and low toxicity towards rat pheochromocytoma cell (PC12). This line of research develops an effective POM-based agent for glioblastoma inhibition and will pave a new way to construct degradable anticancer agents for clinical cancer therapy.
Growth, productivity and relative extinction risk of a data-sparse devil ray
Authors: Pardo Sebastián A. , Kindsvater Holly K. , Cuevas-Zimbrón Elizabeth , Sosa-Nishizaki Oscar , Pérez-Jiménez Juan Carlos , Dulvy Nicholas K.
Published: September 2016

Devil rays (Mobula spp.) face intensifying fishing pressure to meet the ongoing international demand for gill plates. The paucity of information on growth, mortality and fishing effort for devil rays make quantifying population growth rates and extinction risk challenging. Furthermore, unlike manta rays (Manta spp.), devil rays have not been listed on CITES. Here, we use a published size-at-age dataset for the Spinetail Devil Ray (Mobula japanica), to estimate somatic growth rates, age at maturity, maximum age and natural and fishing mortality. We then estimate a plausible distribution of the maximum intrinsic population growth rate (rmax) and compare it to 95 other chondrichthyans. We find evidence that larger devil ray species have low somatic growth rate, low annual reproductive output and low maximum population growth rates, suggesting they have low productivity. Fishing rates of a small-scale artisanal Mexican fishery were comparable to our estimate of rmax and therefore probably unsustainable. Devil ray rmax is very similar to that of manta rays, indicating devil rays can potentially be driven to local extinction at low levels of fishing mortality and that a similar degree of protection for both groups is warranted.
Bioelectronic interfaces by spontaneously organized peptides on 2D atomic single layer materials
Authors: Hayamizu Yuhei , So Christopher R. , Dag Sefa , Page Tamon S. , Starkebaum David , Sarikaya Mehmet
Published: September 2016

Self-assembly of biological molecules on solid materials is central to the “bottom-up” approach to directly integrate biology with electronics. Inspired by biology, exquisite biomolecular nanoarchitectures have been formed on solid surfaces. We demonstrate that a combinatorially-selected dodecapeptide and its variants self-assemble into peptide nanowires on two-dimensional nanosheets, single-layer graphene and MoS2. The abrupt boundaries of nanowires create electronic junctions via spatial biomolecular doping of graphene and manifest themselves as a self-assembled electronic network. Furthermore, designed peptides form nanowires on single-layer MoS2 modifying both its electric conductivity and photoluminescence. The biomolecular doping of nanosheets defined by peptide nanostructures may represent the crucial first step in integrating biology with nano-electronics towards realizing fully self-assembled bionanoelectronic devices.
Quantifying overlap between the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and predicted bluefin tuna spawning habitat in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Hazen Elliott L. , Carlisle Aaron B. , Wilson Steven G. , Ganong James E. , Castleton Michael R. , Schallert Robert J. , Stokesbury Michael J. W. , Bograd Steven J. , Block Barbara A.
Published: September 2016

Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) are distributed throughout the North Atlantic and are both economically valuable and heavily exploited. The fishery is currently managed as two spawning populations, with the GOM population being severely depleted for over 20 years. In April-August of 2010, the Deepwater Horizon oil spill released approximately 4 million barrels of oil into the GOM, with severe ecosystem and economic impacts. Acute oil exposure results in mortality of bluefin eggs and larvae, while chronic effects on spawning adults are less well understood. Here we used 16 years of electronic tagging data for 66 bluefin tuna to identify spawning events, to quantify habitat preferences, and to predict habitat use and oil exposure within Gulf of Mexico spawning grounds. More than 13,600 km2 (5%) of predicted spawning habitat within the US EEZ was oiled during the week of peak oil dispersal, with potentially lethal effects on eggs and larvae. Although the oil spill overlapped with a relatively small portion of predicted spawning habitat, the cumulative impact from oil, ocean warming and bycatch mortality on GOM spawning grounds may result in significant effects for a population that shows little evidence of rebuilding.
Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells seeded on cartilaginous endplates promote Intervertebral Disc Regeneration through Extracellular Matrix Remodeling
Authors: Pereira Catarina Leite , Teixeira Graciosa Q. , Ribeiro-Machado Cláudia , Caldeira Joana , Costa Madalena , Figueiredo Francisco , Fernandes Rui , Aguiar Paulo , Grad Sibylle , Barbosa Mário A. , Gonçalves Raquel M.
Published: September 2016

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is characterized by significant biochemical and histomorphological alterations, such as loss of extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity, by abnormal synthesis of ECM main components, resultant from altered anabolic/catabolic cell activities and cell death. Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell (MSC) migration towards degenerated IVD may represent a viable strategy to promote tissue repair/regeneration. Here, human MSCs (hMSCs) were seeded on top of cartilaginous endplates (CEP) of nucleotomized IVDs of bovine origin and cultured ex vivo up to 3 weeks. hMSCs migrated from CEP towards the lesion area and significantly increased expression of collagen type II and aggrecan in IVD, namely in the nucleus pulposus. Concomitantly, hMSCs stimulated the production of growth factors, promoters of ECM synthesis, such as fibroblast growth factor 6 (FGF-6) and 7 (FGF-7), platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGF-R), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1sR). Overall, our results demonstrate that CEP can be an alternative route to MSC-based therapies for IVD regeneration through ECM remodeling, thus opening new perspectives on endogenous repair capacity through MSC recruitment.
Systematic analysis of genetic variants in Han Chinese patients with sporadic Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Yuan Lamei , Song Zhi , Deng Xiong , Zheng Wen , Guo Yi , Yang Zhijian , Deng Hao
Published: September 2016

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. Accumulated evidence confirms that genetic factors play a considerable role in PD pathogenesis. To examine whether point variants or haplotypes are associated with PD development, genotyping of 35 variants in 22 PD-related genes was performed in a well-characterized cohort of 512 Han Chinese PD patients and 512 normal controls. Both Pearson’s χ2 test and haplotype analysis were used to evaluate whether variants or their haplotypes were associated with PD in this cohort. The only statistically significant differences in genotypic and allelic frequencies between the patients and the controls were in the DnaJ heat shock protein family (Hsp40) member C10 gene (DNAJC10) variant rs13414223 (P = 0.004 and 0.002, respectively; odds ratio = 0.652, 95% confidence interval: 0.496–0.857). No other variants or haplotypes exhibited any significant differences between these two groups (all corrected P > 0.05). Our findings indicate that the variant rs13414223 in the DNAJC10 gene, a paralog of PD-related genes DNAJC6 and DNAJC13, may play a protective role in PD. This suggests it may be a PD-associated gene.
Roll-to-Roll sputtered ITO/Cu/ITO multilayer electrode for flexible, transparent thin film heaters and electrochromic applications
Authors: Park Sung-Hyun , Lee Sang-Mok , Ko Eun-Hye , Kim Tae-Ho , Nah Yoon-Chae , Lee Sang-Jin , Lee Jae Heung , Kim Han-Ki
Published: September 2016

We fabricate high-performance, flexible, transparent electrochromic (EC) films and thin film heaters (TFHs) on an ITO/Cu/ITO (ICI) multilayer electrode prepared by continuous roll-to-roll (RTR) sputtering of ITO and Cu targets. The RTR-sputtered ICI multilayer on a 700 mm wide PET substrate at room temperature exhibits a sheet resistance of 11.8 Ω/square and optical transmittance of 73.9%, which are acceptable for the fabrication of flexible and transparent EC films and TFHs. The effect of the Cu interlayer thickness on the electrical and optical properties of the ICI multilayer was investigated in detail. The bending and cycling fatigue tests demonstrate that the RTR-sputtered ICI multilayer was more flexible than a single ITO film because of high strain failure of the Cu interlayer. The flexible and transparent EC films and TFHs fabricated on the ICI electrode show better performances than reference EC films and TFHs with a single ITO electrode. Therefore, the RTR-sputtered ICI multilayer is the best substitute for the conventional ITO film electrode in order to realize flexible, transparent, cost-effective and large-area EC devices and TFHs that can be used as flexible and smart windows.
Prevention of allograft rejection in heart transplantation through concurrent gene silencing of TLR and Kinase signaling pathways
Authors: Wang Hongmei , Zhang Xusheng , Zheng Xiufen , Lan Zhu , Shi Jun , Jiang Jifu , Zwiep Terry , Li Qing , Quan Douglas , Zhang Zhu-Xu , Min Weiping
Published: September 2016

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) act as initiators and conductors responsible for both innate and adaptive immune responses in organ transplantation. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is one of the most critical signaling kinases that affects broad aspects of cellular functions including metabolism, growth and survival. Recipients (BALB/c) were treated with MyD88, TRIF and mTOR siRNA vectors, 3 and 7 days prior to heart transplantation and 7, 14 and 21 days after transplantation. After siRNA treatment, recipients received a fully MHC-mismatched C57BL/6 heart. Treatment with mTOR siRNA significantly prolonged allograft survival in heart transplantation. Moreover, the combination of mTOR siRNA with MyD88 and TRIF siRNA further extended the allograft survival; Flow cytometric analysis showed an upregulation of FoxP3 expression in spleen lymphocytes and a concurrent downregulation of CD40, CD86 expression, upregulation of PD-L1 expression in splenic dendritic cells in MyD88, TRIF and mTOR treated mice. There is significantly upregulated T cell exhaustion in T cells isolated from tolerant recipients. This study is the first demonstration of preventing immune rejection of allogeneic heart grafts through concurrent gene silencing of TLR and kinase signaling pathways, highlighting the therapeutic potential of siRNA in clinical transplantation.
24(S)-Hydroxycholesterol protects the ex vivo rat retina from injury by elevated hydrostatic pressure
Authors: Ishikawa Makoto , Yoshitomi Takeshi , Zorumski Charles F. , Izumi Yukitoshi
Published: September 2016

In the central nervous system, 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol (24(S)-HC) is an oxysterol synthesized from cholesterol by cholesterol 24-hydroxylase (CYP46A1) encoded by the cyp46a1 gene. In the present study using a rat ex vivo glaucoma model, we found that retinal 24(S)-HC synthesis is facilitated by pressure elevation. Moreover, we found that 24(S)-HC is neuroprotective against pressure mediated retinal degeneration. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR, ELISA and immunohistochemistry revealed that elevated pressure facilitated the expression of cyp46a1 and CYP46A1. Immunohistochemically, the enhanced expression of CYP46A1 was mainly observed in retinal ganglion cells (RGC). LC-MS/MS revealed that 24(S)-HC levels increased in a pressure-dependent manner. Axonal injury and apoptotic RGC death induced by 75 mmHg high pressure was ameliorated by exogenously administered 1 μM 24(S)-HC. In contrast, voriconazole, a CYP46A1 inhibitor, was severely toxic even at normobaric pressure. Under normobaric conditions, 30 μM 24(S)-HC was required to prevent the voriconazole-mediated retinal damage. Taken together, our findings indicate that 24(S)-HC is facilitated by elevated pressure and plays a neuroprotective role under glaucomatous conditions, while voriconazole, an antifungal drug, is retinotoxic. 24(S)-HC and related compounds may serve as potential therapeutic targets for protecting glaucomatous eyes from pressure-induced injuries.
Pharmacological LRRK2 kinase inhibition induces LRRK2 protein destabilization and proteasomal degradation
Authors: Lobbestael E. , Civiero L. , De Wit T. , Taymans J.-M. , Greggio E. , Baekelandt V.
Published: September 2016

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) kinase activity is increased in several pathogenic mutations, including the most common mutation, G2019S and is known to play a role in Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathobiology. This has stimulated the development of potent, selective LRRK2 kinase inhibitors as one of the most prevailing disease-modifying therapeutic PD strategies. Although several lines of evidence support beneficial effects of LRRK2 kinase inhibitors, many questions need to be answered before clinical applications can be envisaged. Using six different LRRK2 kinase inhibitors, we show that LRRK2 kinase inhibition induces LRRK2 dephosphorylation and can reduce LRRK2 protein levels of overexpressed wild type and G2019S, but not A2016T or K1906M, LRRK2 as well as endogenous LRRK2 in mouse brain, lung and kidney. The inhibitor-induced reduction in LRRK2 levels could be reversed by proteasomal inhibition, but not by lysosomal inhibition, while mRNA levels remained unaffected. In addition, using LRRK2 S910A and S935A phosphorylation mutants, we show that dephosphorylation of these sites is not required for LRRK2 degradation. Increasing our insight in the molecular and cellular consequences of LRRK2 kinase inhibition will be crucial in the further development of LRRK2-based PD therapies.
Curli mediate bacterial adhesion to fibronectin via tensile multiple bonds
Authors: Oh Yoo Jin , Hubauer-Brenner Michael , Gruber Hermann J. , Cui Yidan , Traxler Lukas , Siligan Christine , Park Sungsu , Hinterdorfer Peter
Published: September 2016

Many enteric bacteria including pathogenic Escherichia coli and Salmonella strains produce curli fibers that bind to host surfaces, leading to bacterial internalization into host cells. By using a nanomechanical force-sensing approach, we obtained real-time information about the distribution of molecular bonds involved in the adhesion of curliated bacteria to fibronectin. We found that curliated E. coli and fibronectin formed dense quantized and multiple specific bonds with high tensile strength, resulting in tight bacterial binding. Nanomechanical recognition measurements revealed that approximately 10 bonds were disrupted either sequentially or simultaneously under force load. Thus the curli formation of bacterial surfaces leads to multi-bond structural components of fibrous nature, which may explain the strong mechanical binding of curliated bacteria to host cells and unveil the functions of these proteins in bacterial internalization and invasion.