bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Musashi1 regulates survival of hepatoma cell lines by activation of Wnt signalling pathway
Authors: Chen Kunlun , Gao Qing , Zhang Wei , Liu Zhongwei , Cai Jiangyi , Liu Ying , Xu Jinkai , Li Jie , Yang Yi , Xu Xin
Published: January 2014

Background & Aims

Musashi1 (MSI1) belongs to the RNA‐binding protein (RBP) family, with functions as translational activator or suppressor of specifically bound mRNA. However, its function in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been deeply unexplored. Here, we investigated the role of MSI1 for proliferation and tumourigenesis in HCC.

Methods

The expression of MSI1 in HCC tissues was examined by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. The effects of MSI1 overexpression and silencing on cell proliferation, cell viability, tumoursphere and tumour formation of HCC were explored.

Results

In this study, we initially reported that MSI1 was upregulated in HCC. Overexpression of MSI1 in HepG2 cell lines resulted in significantly promoted cell growth, tumour formation and cell cycle progression. Consistently, knockdown of MSI1 in Huh7 cell lines remarkably inhibited cell growth and tumour formation, and caused cell cycle arrest at the G1/S transition. Dual‐luciferase assays indicated that MSI1 activated Wnt signal pathway, and APC and DKK1 were direct targets of MSI1.

Conclusion

Taken together, these findings indicate that an oncogenic role of MSI1 in HCC may be through modulation of cell growth and cell cycle by activating Wnt pathway via direct downregulation of APC and DKK1.
Bunina bodies in motor and non‐motor neurons revisited: A pathological study of anALSpatient after long‐term survival on a respirator
Authors: Kimura Tadashi , Jiang Haishan , Konno Takuya , Seto Makiko , Iwanaga Keisuke , Tsujihata Mitsuhiro , Satoh Akira , Onodera Osamu , Kakita Akiyoshi , Takahashi Hitoshi
Published: January 2014

Bunina bodies (BBs) are small eosinophilic neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions (NCIs) found in the remaining lower motor neurons (LMNs) of patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS), being a specific feature of the cellular pathology. We examined a case ofSALS, unassociated withTDP‐43orC9ORF72mutation, of 12 years duration in a 75‐year‐old man, who had received artificial respiratory support for 9 years, and showed widespread multisystem degeneration withTDP‐43 pathology. Interestingly, in this patient, manyNCIsreminiscent ofBBswere observed in the oculomotor nucleus, medullary reticular formation and cerebellar dentate nucleus. AsBBsin the cerebellar dentate nucleus have not been previously described, we performed ultrastructural and immunohistochemical studies of theseNCIsto gain further insight into the nature ofBBs. In each region, the ultrastructural features of theseNCIswere shown to be identical to those ofBBspreviously described inLMNs. These three regions and the relatively well preserved sacral anterior horns (S1andS2) and facial motor nucleus were immunostained with antibodies against cystatinC(CC) andTDP‐43. Importantly, it was revealed thatBBsexhibiting immunoreactivity forCCwere a feature ofLMNs, but not of non‐motor neurons, and that in the cerebellar dentate nucleus, the ratio of neurons withBBsandTDP‐43 inclusions/neurons withBBswas significantly lower than in other regions. These findings suggest that the occurrence ofBBswithCCimmunoreactivity is intrinsically associated with the particular cellular properties ofLMNs, and that the mechanism responsible for the formation ofBBsis distinct from that forTDP‐43 inclusions.
The calcium sensor GhCaM7 promotes cotton fiber elongation by modulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production
Authors: Tang Wenxin , Tu Lili , Yang Xiyan , Tan Jiafu , Deng Fenglin , Hao Juan , Guo Kai , Lindsey Keith , Zhang Xianlong
Published: January 2014

Fiber elongation is the key determinant of fiber quality and output in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). Although expression profiling and functional genomics provide some data, the mechanism of fiber development is still not well understood.

Here, a gene encoding a calcium sensor, GhCaM7, was isolated based on its high expression level relative to other GhCaMs in fiber cells at the fast elongation stage. The level of expression of GhCaM7 in the wild‐type and the fuzzless/lintless mutant correspond to the presence and absence, respectively, of fiber initials.

Overexpressing GhCaM7 promotes early fiber elongation, whereas GhCaM7 suppression by RNAi delays fiber initiation and inhibits fiber elongation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play important roles in early fiber development. ROS induced by exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and Ca2+ starvation promotes early fiber elongation. GhCaM7 overexpression fiber cells show increased ROS concentrations compared with the wild‐type, while GhCaM7 RNAi fiber cells have reduced concentrations. Furthermore, we show that H2O2 enhances Ca2+ influx into the fiber and feedback‐regulates the expression of GhCaM7.

We conclude that GhCaM7, Ca2+ and ROS are three important regulators involved in early fiber elongation. GhCaM7 might modulate ROS production and act as a molecular link between Ca2+ and ROS signal pathways in early fiber development.
Cryptic adaptive radiation in tropical forest trees inNewCaledonia
Authors: Pillon Yohan , Hopkins Helen C. F. , Rigault Frédéric , Jaffré Tanguy , Stacy Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2014

The causes of the species richness of tropical trees are poorly understood, in particular the roles of ecological factors such as soil composition. The nickel(Ni)‐hyperaccumulating tree genusGeissois(Cunoniaceae) from theSouth‐westPacific was chosen as a model of diversification on different substrates.

Here, we investigated the leaf element compositions, spatial distributions and phylogeny of all species ofGeissoisoccurring onNewCaledonia.

We found thatNewCaledonianGeissoisdescended from a single colonist and diversified relatively quickly into 13 species. Species on ultramafic and nonultramafic substrates showed contrasting patterns of leaf element composition and range overlap. Those on nonultramafic substrates were largely sympatric but had distinct leaf element compositions. By contrast, species on ultramafic substrates showed similar leaf element composition, but occurred in many cases exclusively in allopatry. Further, earlier work showed that at least three out of these seven species use different molecules to bindNi.

Geissoisqualifies as a cryptic adaptive radiation, and may be the first such example in a lineage of tropical forest trees. Variation in biochemical strategies for coping with both typical and adverse soil conditions may help to explain the diversification and coexistence of tropical forest trees on similar soil types.
Molecular phylogeny and symbiotic selectivity of the green algal genus Dictyochloropsis s.l. (Trebouxiophyceae): a polyphyletic and widespread group forming photobiont‐mediated guilds in the lichen family Lobariaceae
Authors: Dal Grande Francesco , Beck Andreas , Cornejo Carolina , Singh Garima , Cheenacharoen Saran , Nelsen Matthew P. , Scheidegger Christoph
Published: January 2014

Dictyochloropsis s.l. is an ecologically important, common but little‐studied genus of green algae. Here, we examined the diversity and host selectivity of algae attributed to this genus at both species‐to‐species and species‐to‐community levels.

We conducted a molecular investigation of 15 cultured strains and several lichen photobionts, using 18S rRNA, rbcL and ITS sequence data. We further used seven alga‐specific microsatellite markers to study algal sharing among fungi of the family Lobariaceae in two populations in Madeira and Taiwan (454 lichens).

We found that the genus Dictyochloropsis s.l. is polyphyletic. Dictyochloropsis clade 1 comprises only free‐living algae whereas Dictyochloropsis clade 2 includes lichenized algae as well as free‐living algae. Fungal selectivity towards algae belonging to Dictyochloropsis clade 2 is high. Selectivity varies geographically, with photobionts being restricted to a single region. Finally, we showed that Dictyochloropsis clade 2 individuals are shared among different fungal hosts in communities of lichens of the Lobariaceae.

As for other green algal lineages, there is a high amount of cryptic diversity in Dictyochloropsis. Furthermore, co‐evolution between Dictyochloropsis clade 2 algae and representatives of the Lobariaceae is manifested at the community level, with several unrelated fungal species being horizontally connected by shared photobiont clones.
Role ofLONELY GUYgenes in indeterminate nodulation onMedicago truncatula
Authors: Mortier Virginie , Wasson Anton , Jaworek Pavel , De Keyser Annick , Decroos Martijn , Holsters Marcelle , Tarkowski Petr , Mathesius Ulrike , Goormachtig Sofie
Published: January 2014

LONELY GUY(LOG) genes encode cytokinin riboside 5′‐monophosphate phosphoribohydrolases and are directly involved in the activation of cytokinins.

To assess whetherLOGproteins affect the influence of cytokinin on nodulation, we studied twoLOGgenes ofMedicago truncatula.

Expression analysis showed thatMtLOG1andMtLOG2were upregulated during nodulation in aCRE1‐dependent manner. Expression was mainly localized in the dividing cells of the nodule primordium. In addition,RNAinterference revealed thatMtLOG1is involved in nodule development and that the gene plays a negative role in lateral root development. Ectopic expression ofMtLOG1resulted in a change in cytokinin homeostasis, triggered cytokinin‐inducible genes and produced roots with enlarged vascular tissues and shortened primary roots. In addition, those35S:LOG1roots also displayed fewer nodules than the wild‐type. This inhibition in nodule formation was local, independent of theSUPER NUMERIC NODULESgene, but coincided with an upregulation of theMtCLE13gene, encoding aCLAVATA3/EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGIONpeptide.

In conclusion, we demonstrate that inM. truncatulaLOGproteins might be implicated in nodule primordium development and lateral root formation.
Current issues in the evolutionary ecology of ant–plant symbioses
Authors: Mayer Veronika E. , Frederickson Megan E. , McKey Doyle , Blatrix Rumsaïs
Published: January 2014

Ant–plant symbioses involve plants that provide hollow structures specialized for housing ants and often food to ants. In return, the inhabiting ants protect plants against herbivores and sometimes provide them with nutrients. Here, we review recent advances in ant–plant symbioses, focusing on three areas. First, the nutritional ecology of plant‐ants, which is based not only on plant‐derived food rewards, but also on inputs from other symbiotic partners, in particular fungi and possibly bacteria. Food and protection are the most important ‘currencies’ exchanged between partners and they drive the nature and evolution of the relationships. Secondly, studies of conflict and cooperation in ant–plant symbioses have contributed key insights into the evolution and maintenance of mutualism, particularly how partner‐mediated feedbacks affect the specificity and stability of mutualisms. There is little evidence that mutualistic ants or plants are under selection to cheat, but the costs and benefits of ant–plant interactions do vary with environmental factors, making them vulnerable to natural or anthropogenic environmental change. Thus, thirdly, ant–plant symbioses should be considered good models for investigating the effects of global change on the outcome of mutualistic interactions.

Contents

Summary
749

I.
Introduction
749

II.
Nutritional ecology
750

III.
Cooperation and conflict in ant–plant symbioses
754

IV.
Ant–plant symbioses in a changing world
758

V.
Prospects
759

Acknowledgements
760

References
761
Interactions with soil biota shift from negative to positive when a tree species is moved outside its native range
Authors: Gundale Michael J. , Kardol Paul , Nilsson Marie‐Charlotte , Nilsson Urban , Lucas Richard W. , Wardle David A.
Published: January 2014

Studies evaluating plant–soil biota interactions in both native and introduced plant ranges are rare, and thus far have lacked robust experimental designs to account for several potential confounding factors.

Here, we investigated the effects of soil biota on growth of Pinus contorta, which has been introduced from Canada to Sweden. Using Swedish and Canadian soils, we conducted two glasshouse experiments. The first experiment utilized unsterilized soil from each country, with a full‐factorial cross of soil origin, tree provenance, and fertilizer addition. The second experiment utilized gamma‐irradiated sterile soil from each country, with a full‐factorial cross of soil origin, soil biota inoculation treatments, tree provenance, and fertilizer addition.

The first experiment showed higher seedling growth on Swedish soil relative to Canadian soil. The second experiment showed this effect was due to differences in soil biotic communities between the two countries, and occurred independently of all other experimental factors.

Our results provide strong evidence that plant interactions with soil biota can shift from negative to positive following introduction to a new region, and are relevant for understanding the success of some exotic forest plantations, and invasive and range‐expanding native species.
Predicting Medication Persistence to Buprenorphine Transdermal System
Authors: Pergolizzi Joseph V. , Ben‐Joseph Rami , Chang Chun‐Lan , Hess Gregory
Published: January 2014

Objectives

Persistence, the duration a patient remains on therapy, in chronic, symptomatic conditions plays an important role in therapy effectiveness. Understanding the duration and patient factors associated with prescribed medication persistence is, therefore, an important step toward better treatment and health outcomes for patients. In the following study, an analysis of such factors associated with buprenorphine transdermal system (BTDS) persistence was conducted utilizing a large US private practitioner and pharmacy claims database and is herein reported.

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years initiating BTDS during January 1, 2011—November 30, 2011 were identified in the IMS Private Practitioner Medical Claims and Pharmacy Claims databases. An index date was defined as the first prescription of BTDS during the studied interval. During the preindex period, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), chronic pain‐related conditions, and prior medication use were assessed. Concomitant medications and various treatment patterns (eg, last dose strength and dose adjustments) were assessed in the postindex 6‐month period. Persistence was measured as the duration of BTDS from initiation to the 1st >28‐day refill gap in the postindex 6‐month period. Descriptive statistical and survival analysis was used to assess the predictors of BTDS persistence.

Results

During the study period, 10,457 patients newly treated with BTDS were identified. Patients' mean (±SD) age was 54.5 (±15.2) years; 69.9% were women, and the mean (±SD) CCI was 1 (±1.4). Utilizing a hierarchical approach, patients were separated into different cohorts based on the initial analgesic prescription identified during postindex period with 91.7%, 34.7%, and 59.0% of the patients using opioids, NSAIDs and adjuvant analgesics, respectively. Multivariate regression analyses showed that patients with prior opioid and adjuvant analgesic use were 21% and 5% less likely to discontinue BTDS (P < 0.05), respectively, as compared to patients not using these agents. Patients with concomitant use of adjuvant analgesics were 15% less likely to discontinue therapy (P < 0.05) as compared to patients without concomitant use of these agents. Long‐term BTDS persistence was also observed in patients who had a dose change or a last dose strength >5 mcg/hour. Sensitivity analyses for those with 30‐day prior opioid use and patients with ≥2 claims of BTDS confirmed these findings.

Conclusions

Prior and concomitant use of adjuvant analgesics, prior use of opioids, and dose adjustments were associated with significantly longer persistence among patients initiating BTDS. The results suggest that patients are less likely to discontinue BTDS early if practitioners account for prior treatment history and dose titration.
Abiotic stresses, constraints and improvement strategies in chickpea
Authors: Jha Uday C. , Chaturvedi Sushil K. , Bohra Abhishek , Basu Partha S. , Khan Muhammad S. , Barh Debmalya
Published: January 2014

Chickpea (Cicer arietinumL.) is cultivated mostly in the arid and semi‐arid regions of the world. Climate change will bring new production scenarios as the entire growing area inIndo–Pak subcontinent, major producing area of chickpea, is expected to undergo ecological change, warranting strategic planning for crop breeding and husbandry. Conventional breeding has produced several high‐yielding chickpea genotypes without exploiting its potential yield owing to a number of constraints. Among these, abiotic stresses include drought, salinity, water logging, high temperature and chilling frequently limit growth and productivity of chickpea. The genetic complexity of these abiotic stresses and lack of proper screening techniques and phenotyping techniques and genotype‐by‐environment interaction have further jeopardized the breeding programme of chickpea. Therefore, considering all dispiriting aspects of abiotic stresses, the scientists have to understand the knowledge gap involving the physiological, biochemical and molecular complex network of abiotic stresses mechanism. Above all emerging ‘omics’ approaches will lead the breeders to mine the ‘treasuring genes’ from wild donors and tailor a genotype harbouring ‘climate resilient’ genes to mitigate the challenges in chickpea production.
Trauma, depression, and resilience of earthquake/tsunami/nuclear disaster survivors of Hirono, Fukushima, Japan
Authors: Kukihara Hiroko , Yamawaki Niwako , Uchiyama Kumi , Arai Shoichi , Horikawa Etsuo
Published: January 2014

Aim

A mega‐earthquake and tsunami struck the northeastern coast of Japan, and many survivors were forced to evacuate to temporary housing due to rising radiation levels. The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and poor general health among survivors, to test the predictive roles of resilience on mental and physical health, and to examine the predictive sociodemographic factors on resilience.

Methods

Two hundred and forty‐one evacuees (men/women: 116/125) from Hirono, Fukushima participated in the study. They were asked to complete the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, the Zung Self‐Rating Depression Scale, the Impact of Events Scale‐Revised, and a demographic questionnaire.

Results

Among all participants, 53.5% exhibited the clinically concerning symptoms of PTSD, and among them 33.2% indicated clinical PTSD symptoms. Additionally, 66.8% reported symptoms of depression, and among them 33.2% showed mildly depressive symptoms, while 19.1% and 14.5% demonstrated moderate and severe depressive symptoms, respectively. Resilience was a significant buffer for depression, PTSD, and general health. Additionally, employment status, eating/exercise habits, and drinking habits predicted resilience.

Conclusion

The results indicated that depression and PTSD are prevalent among the survivors of massive earthquakes, tsunamis, and accidents from nuclear power plants. However, the results also showed that some survivors managed to endure the traumatic events relatively well, and resilience was a significant protective factor in dealing with such events. Therefore, it is crucial to assist survivors in improving their resilience by providing job opportunities and encouraging a healthy lifestyle.
Metallogenic and Metamorphic Age of the Hongtoushan Copper–Zinc Massive Sulfide Deposit, Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Qian Ye , Sun Fengyue , Zhang Yajin , Huo Liang
Published: January 2014

The Hongtoushan copper–zinc deposit is the only large Archean volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposit in China. This paper presents new information on the timing of metallogenesis and metamorphism of the deposit, including new cathodoluminescence (CL) images, and Th U−1 and LA–ICP–MS U–Pb dating on zircons of the biotite–plagioclase gneiss and plagioclase–amphibole gneiss that host the deposit. The CL images and Th U−1 ratios indicate that the zircons within the gneiss are of metamorphic origin. LA–ICP–MS dating of the plagioclase–amphibole gneiss yielded the upper intercept ages of 2549 Ma, and the biotite–plagioclase gneiss yielded the upper intercept ages of 2552 Ma and 2550 Ma correspondingly, indicating that the mineralization of the deposit occurred at around 2550 Ma. The rims of zircons within these host rocks yielded younger U–Pb ages at 2529, 2520 and 2515 Ma, identical to the age of felsic intrusive rocks in the study area. This suggests that the Hongtoushan VMS deposit underwent initial metamorphism and deformation at around 2520 Ma by the intrusion of granite magmas.
Gold and Silver Prospection Using Magnetic, Radiometry and Microgravity Methods in the Kışladağ Province of Western Turkey
Authors: Ercan Ö. A. , Şeren Aysel , Elmas Ali
Published: January 2014

The study area lies in the Kışladağ province of western Turkey. The site has an approximate dimension of 1.5 to 2 km north‐south length and 3 km east‐west width. Combined methods from the fields of geology, geochemistry and geophysics were applied to elucidate the regional geologic framework and identify favorable environs for mineralization. There are a few volcanic hills in the center of the Kışladağ caldera, which is actually a field of interest. Magnetics (M), Magnetic Total Field Gradient (Mg), Radiometry (Ra), Microgravity (MG) and Microgravity Gradient (MGG) methods were used to prospect the terrains and boundaries of gold and silver deposition in the area. The observed mineralized zones are characterized by low magnetization, low radiation, and high density contrast. Such zones appear to exist outside and beneath a magnetized cap rock. The locations of proposed drill holes were determined with varying depths. Following completion of geophysical and geochemical exploration, an open cut mine with a yearly production rate of about 5 to 6 tons of gold minerals at depths varying between 50 to 225 m has been operational.
Geochemical Characteristics of Apatite in HeavyREE‐rich Deep‐Sea Mud fromMinami‐Torishima Area, SoutheasternJapan
Authors: Kon Yoshiaki , Hoshino Mihoko , Sanematsu Kenzo , Morita Sayaka , Tsunematsu Maiko , Okamoto Nobuyuki , Yano Nobuhiko , Tanaka Mikiya , Takagi Tetsuichi
Published: January 2014

We have conducted geochemical and mineralogical investigations of the rare earth and yttrium (REY)‐rich mud from theMinami‐Torishima area in thePacific in order to clarify the concentration ofREYand their host‐phase in the mud.X‐ray diffraction analysis shows that the mud is mainly composed of phillipsite, fluorapatite, quartz, albite, illite and montmorillonite. Whole‐rockCaO,P2O5and totalREYcontents of the mud are positively correlated. Relative abundance of apatite is also positively correlated toP2O5and totalREYcontents. These correlations suggest that apatite is the main host of theP2O5andREYin the mud. We makein situcompositional analyses of constituent minerals in theREY mud. The results show that the apatite is abundant inREY(9300–32,000 ppm) and is characterized by a negativeCe anomalyand enrichment in heavy rare‐earth elements. This abundance and composition ofREYof the mud is similar those of fish debris apatites. In contrast, phillipsite is less abundant inREY(60–170 ppm). Therefore we conclude that the mainREYhost phase of the mud is apatite.
CHILDCARE ACCESS AND EMPLOYMENT: THE CASE OF WOMEN WITH PRESCHOOL‐AGED CHILDREN IN TOKYO
Authors: Kawabata Mizuki
Published: January 2014

This article presents an empirical study on childcare accessibility and the importance of access to childcare in attaining preferred employment among women with preschool‐aged children in Tokyo. The age‐wise childcare accessibility of this study takes into account spatial variations in the supply and demand of childcare, as well as “spatial competition,” based on spatially micro areas — blocks. The accessibility reveals a considerable geographic mismatch between childcare center supply and demand, particularly for children aged up to two years. Empirical results show that access to childcare is closely associated with a higher probability of attaining preferred employment among women with preschool‐aged children. The association is remarkably strong when a woman has a very young child aged up to two years and when the childcare center is one that is desired. Adequate childcare provision, particularly for children under the age of three, helps to augment active female participation in the labor market.
Bioprosthetic heart valves of the future
Authors: Manji Rizwan A. , Ekser Burcin , Menkis Alan H. , Cooper David K.C.
Published: January 2014

Glutaraldehyde‐fixed bioprosthetic heart valves (GBHVs), derived from pigs or cows, undergo structural valve deterioration (SVD) over time, with calcification and eventual failure. It is generally accepted that SVD is due to chemical processes between glutaraldehyde and free calcium ions in the blood. Valve companies have made significant progress in decreasing SVD from calcification through various valve chemical treatments. However, there are still groups of patients (e.g., children and young adults) that have accelerated SVD of GBHV. Unfortunately, these patients are not ideal patients for valve replacement with mechanical heart valve prostheses as they are at high long‐term risk from complications of the mandatory anticoagulation that is required. Thus, there is no “ideal” heart valve replacement for children and young adults. GBHVs represent a form of xenotransplantation, and there is increasing evidence that SVD seen in these valves is at least in part associated with xenograft rejection. We review the evidence that suggests that xenograft rejection of GBHVs is occurring, and that calcification of the valve may be related to this rejection. Furthermore, we review recent research into the transplantation of live porcine organs in non‐human primates that may be applicable to GBHVs and consider the potential use of genetically modified pigs as sources of bioprosthetic heart valves.
Attitudes Toward Physical Activity and Exercise: Comparison of Memory Clinic Patients and Their Caregivers and Prediction of Activity Levels
Authors: O’Connell Megan E. , Bello-Haas Vanina Dal , Crossley Margaret , Morgan Debra G.
Published: January 2014

Regular physical activity and exercise (PA&E) reduces cognitive aging, may delay dementia onset, and for persons with dementia, may slow progression and improve quality of life. Memory clinic patients and caregivers described their PA&E and completed the Older Persons’ Attitudes Toward Physical Activity and Exercise Questionnaire (OPAPAEQ). Caregivers and patients differed in their PA&E attitudes: patients were less likely to believe in the importance of PA&E for health promotion. PA&E attitudes were explored as predictors of self-reported exercise habits. Belief in the importance of high intensity exercise for health maintenance was the only variable that significantly predicted engagement in regular PA&E. Moreover, caregivers’ attitudes toward high intensity exercise predicted memory patients’ participation in PA&E. These findings may aid in development of exercise interventions for people with memory problems, and suggest that modification of specific attitudes toward exercise is an important component to ensure maximum participation and engagement in PA&E.
The Nutrient-Responsive Transcription Factor TFE3 Promotes Autophagy, Lysosomal Biogenesis, and Clearance of Cellular Debris
Authors: Martina José A. , Diab Heba I. , Lishu Li , Jeong-A Lim , Patange Simona , Raben Nina , Puertollano Rosa
Published: January 2014

Enhancing TFE3 activity to promote expression of lysosome-associated genes may be beneficial in treating lysosomal storage disorders.
Science Signaling
Podcast: 21 January 2014
Authors: Oike Yuichi , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: January 2014

Therapies that interfere with signaling by the secreted factor ANGPTL2 may decrease the likelihood of osteosarcoma metastasis.
The Secret Life of a Vaccine
Authors: Pickersgill Helen
Published: January 2014

The success of the yellow fever vaccine is linked to the amino acid starvation pathway, which promotes adaptive immunity.
ROR1 Generates Bad Blood
Authors: Berndt Jason D.
Published: January 2014

The receptor tyrosine kinase–like receptor ROR1 binds to the oncoprotein TCL1 to promote B cell leukemia.
RIGging the Therapeutic Response
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: January 2014

A protein that is involved in sensing viral RNA determines the response of hepatocellular carcinomas to interferon α.
Economic burden of time lost due to injury in NHL hockey players
Authors: Donaldson Laura , Li Bing , Cusimano Michael D
Published: January 2014

Objective

To determine the economic burden of salary costs lost due to injury in the National Hockey League (NHL).

Methods

All NHL players who engaged in at least one regular season game during the 2009–2010 to 2011–2012 seasons comprised the study population. We performed a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of publically available media sources to collect injury and salary data. Outcome measurements were games missed during regular season play due to hockey-related injury and lost salary.

Results

A total of 50.9% of all NHL players missed at least one game within a season of play, and injuries represented a total salary cost of approximately US$218 million per year. Concussions alone amounted to a salary loss of US$42.8 million a year. Head/neck injuries and leg/foot injuries were the most expensive in terms of overall cost, while head/neck and shoulder injuries had the highest mean cost.

Conclusions

NHL players commonly miss time due to injury, which creates a substantial burden in lost salary costs.
Republished: The role of amyloid β in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Gilbert Barnabas James
Published: January 2014

The amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) is widely considered to be the major toxic agent in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease, a condition which afflicts approximately 36 million people worldwide. Despite a plethora of studies stretching back over two decades, identifying the toxic Aβ species has proved difficult. Debate has centred on the Aβ fibril and oligomer. Despite support from numerous experimental models, important questions linger regarding the role of the Aβ oligomer in particular. It is likely a huge array of oligomers, rather than a single species, which cause toxicity. Reappraisal of the role of the Aβ fibril points towards a dynamic relationship with the Aβ oligomer within an integrated system, as supported by evidence from microglia. However, some continue to doubt the pathological role of amyloid β, instead proposing a protective role. If the field is to progress, all Aβ oligomers should be characterised, the nomenclature revised and a consistent experimental protocol defined. For this to occur, collaboration will be required between major research groups and innovative analytical tools developed. Such action must surely be taken if amyloid-based therapeutic endeavour is to progress.
Short bowel syndrome in infants: the critical role of luminal nutrients in a management program
Authors: Roy Claude C. , Groleau Véronique , Bouthillier Lise , Pineault Marjolain , Thibault Maxime , Marchand Valérie
Published: January 2014

Short bowel syndrome develops when the remnant mass of functioning enterocytes following massive resections cannot support growth or maintain fluid–electrolyte balance and requires parenteral nutrition. Resection itself stimulates the intestine’s inherent ability to adapt morphologically and functionally. The capacity to change is very much related to the high turnover rate of enterocytes and is mediated by several signals; these signals are mediated in large part by enteral nutrition. Early initiation of enteral feeding, close clinical monitoring, and ongoing assessment of intestinal adaptation are key to the prevention of irreversible intestinal failure. The length of the functional small bowel remnant is the most important variable affecting outcome. The major objective of intestinal rehabilitation programs is to achieve early oral nutritional autonomy while maintaining normal growth and nutrition status and minimizing total parenteral nutrition related comorbidities such as chronic progressive liver disease. Remarkable progress has been made in terms of survivability and quality of life, especially in the context of coordinated multidisciplinary programs, but much work remains to be done.
In silico design of a dual TPR/TxS inhibitor for venous thromboembolism and related cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Yadav Arpita , Krishna Abhay
Published: January 2014

In recent years, many research efforts have been directed towards preventing vasoconstrictor and platelet aggregatory properties of TxA2related to the prostaglandin cycle, as TxA2has been implicated directly or indirectly in pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases, venous thromboembolism, and pulmonary embolism. The TxA2antagonists and TxS inhibitors undergoing clinical trials have not shown the expected clinical efficacy. This molecular modeling and docking study explains how efficacy may be enhanced by a careful design of multitarget drugs producing synergistic effects simultaneously at different targets. A dual TPR/TxS inhibition strategy is expected to give better clinical efficacy. This study also emphasizes the importance of designing efforts based on detailed analysis of drug−receptor interactions at both targets. Ab initio HF/6-31G(d) and B3LYP/6-31G(d) molecular orbital calculations coupled with flexible ligand docking studies have led to the design of a dual TPR/TxS inhibitor starting from a naturally occurring compound bromelain, derived from pineapple extract with some known pharmacological advantages. A designed lead compound may prove to be a fruitful starting point for the development of clinically efficient drugs for venous thromboembolism and related cardiovascular diseases.
Superfield approach to nilpotent symmetries in 3D Jackiw–Pi model of massive non-Abelian theory
Authors: Gupta S. , Kumar R. , Malik R.P.
Published: January 2014

In the available literature, only the Becchi–Rouet–Stora–Tyutin (BRST) symmetries are known for the Jackiw–Pi model of the three (2 + 1)-dimensional (3D) massive non-Abelian gauge theory. We derive the off-shell nilpotent [Formula: see text] and absolutely anticommuting (sbsab + sabsb = 0) (anti-)BRST transformations s(a)b corresponding to the usual Yang–Mills gauge transformations of this model by exploiting the “augmented” superfield formalism where the horizontality condition and gauge invariant restrictions blend together in a meaningful manner. There is a non-Yang–Mills (NYM) symmetry in this theory, too. However, we do not touch the NYM symmetry in our present endeavor. This superfield formalism leads to the derivation of an (anti-)BRST invariant Curci–Ferrari restriction, which plays a key role in the proof of absolute anticommutativity of s(a)b. The derivation of the proper anti-BRST symmetry transformations is important from the point of view of geometrical objects called gerbes. A novel feature of our present investigation is the derivation of the (anti-)BRST transformations for the auxiliary field ρ from our superfield formalism, which is neither generated by the (anti-)BRST charges nor obtained from the requirements of nilpotency and (or) absolute anticommutativity of the (anti-)BRST symmetries for our present 3D non-Abelian 1-form gauge theory.
Thermal treatments and characterization of CZTS thin films deposited using nanoparticle ink
Authors: Martinez-Ayala A. , Pal Mou , Mathews N.R. , Mathew X.
Published: January 2014

The structural, optical, and optoelectronic properties of copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) films, deposited by a nonvacuum nanoparticle based approach were studied as a function of different annealing temperatures. The CZTS films for photovoltaic applications were deposited using the doctor blading method using an ink prepared with nanoparticles synthesized using the solvothermal method. Deposited films were annealed at different temperatures in N2–S atmosphere. The films were characterized using different tools such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and photoconductivity. The results showed that the kesterite phase was formed in the temperature range between 400 and 550 °C. At temperatures beyond 500 °C, many peaks of binary and ternary phases were detected, probably because of the decomposition of the kesterite layer. The cross section SEM images showed that the film is compact; however, there are isolated voids. The EDXS estimated chemical composition was found to vary with annealing temperature; the nearly stoichiometric film was obtained when annealed at 450 °C. The optical band gap of the stoichiometric film was 1.6 eV, and it showed photoconductivity.
Preparation and testing of silicon nanowires
Authors: Müller Martin , Kočka Jan , El Gohary Hassan G. , Stuchlik Jiri , Stuchlikova Ha , Hruška Karel , Rezek Bohuslav , Ledinsky Martin , Fejfar Antonin
Published: January 2014

Here we present two ways of preparing lateral (in plane) silicon nanowires with the help of gold nanoislands catalysed plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition. The role of the applied potential and eventual consecutive hydrogen plasma treatment is tested together with the thickness of the thin Au layer used for self-organised preparation of Au nanoislands.
FOURTH GENERATION MAJORANA NEUTRINO, DARK MATTER AND HIGGS PHYSICS
Authors: BAO SHOU-SHAN , GONG XUE , SI ZONG-GUO , ZHOU YU-FENG
Published: January 2014

We consider extensions of the standard model with fourth generation fermions (SM4) in which extra symmetries are introduced such that the transitions between the fourth generation fermions and the ones in the first three generations are forbidden. In these models, the stringent lower bounds on the masses of fourth generation quarks from direct searches can be relaxed, and the lightest fourth neutrino is allowed to be stable and light enough to trigger the Higgs boson invisible decay. In addition, the fourth Majorana neutrino can be a subdominant but highly detectable dark matter component. We perform a global analysis of the current Large Hadron Collider (LHC) data on the Higgs production and decay in this type of SM4. The results show that the mass of the lightest fourth Majorana neutrino is confined in the range ~41–59 GeV. Within the allowed parameter space, the predicted effective cross-section for spin-independent DM–nucleon scattering is ~3×10-48–6×10-46 cm 2, which is close to the current XENON100 upper limit and is within the reach of the XENON1T experiment in the near future. The predicted spin-dependent cross sections can also reach ~8×10-40 cm 2.
LINEARITY OF QUANTUM PROBABILITY MEASURE AND HARDY'S MODEL
Authors: FUJIKAWA KAZUO , OH C. H. , ZHANG CHENGJIE
Published: January 2014

We re-examine d = 4 hidden-variables model for a system of two spin-1/2 particles in view of the concrete model of Hardy, who analyzed the criterion of entanglement without referring to inequality. The basis of our analysis is the linearity of the probability measure related to the Born probability interpretation, which excludes noncontextual hidden-variables model in d≥3. To be specific, we note the inconsistency of the noncontextual hidden-variables model in d = 4 with the linearity of the quantum mechanical probability measure in the sense 〈ψ|a⋅σ ⊗b ⋅σ|ψ〉+ 〈ψ|a ⋅σ ⊗b′ ⋅σ|ψ〉 = 〈ψ|a⋅σ⊗(b + b′)⋅σ|ψ〉 for noncollinear b and b′. It is then shown that Hardy's model in d = 4 does not lead to a unique mathematical expression in the demonstration of the discrepancy of local realism (hidden-variables model) with entanglement and thus his proof is incomplete. We identify the origin of this nonuniqueness with the nonuniqueness of translating quantum mechanical expressions into expressions in hidden-variables model, which results from the failure of the above linearity of the probability measure. In contrast, if the linearity of the probability measure is strictly imposed, which tantamounts to asking that the noncontextual hidden-variables model in d = 4 gives the Clauser–Horne–Shimony–Holt (CHSH) inequality |〈B〉|≤2 uniquely, it is shown that the hidden-variables model can describe only separable quantum mechanical states; this conclusion is in perfect agreement with the so-called Gisin's theorem which states that |〈B〉|≤2 implies separable states.
ELASTIC SCATTERING OF PROTONS FROM $\sqrt{s} = 23.5~{\rm GeV}$ to 7 TeV FROM A GENERALIZED BIALAS–BZDAK MODEL
Authors: CSÖRGŐ T. , NEMES F.
Published: January 2014

The Bialas–Bzdak model of elastic proton–proton scattering is generalized to the case when the real part of the parton–parton level forward scattering amplitude is nonvanishing. Such a generalization enables the model to describe well the dip region of the differential cross-section of elastic scattering at the intersecting storage rings (ISR) energies, and improves significantly the ability of the model to describe also the recent TOTEM data at [Formula: see text] LHC energy. Within this framework, both the increase of the total cross-section, as well as the decrease of the location of the dip with increasing colliding energies, is related to the increase of the quark–diquark distance and to the increase of the "fragility" of the protons with increasing energies. In addition, we present and test the validity of two new phenomenological relations: one of them relates the total p+p cross-section to an effective, model-independent proton radius, while the other relates the position of the dip in the differential elastic cross-section to the measured value of the total cross-section.
AN OPTIMIZED LOW POWER PIPELINE ANALOG-TO-DIGITAL CONVERTER FOR HIGH-SPEED WLAN APPLICATION
Authors: YE MAO , WU BIN , ZHU YONGXU , ZHOU YUMEI
Published: January 2014

This paper presents the design and implementation of a 11-bit 160 MSPS analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for next generation super high-speed wireless local area network (WLAN) application. The ADC core consists of one front sample and hold stage and four cascades of 2.5 bit pipeline stages with opamp sharing between successive stages. To achieve low power dissipation at 1.2 V supply, a single stage symmetrical amplifier with double transimpedance gain-boosting amplifier is proposed. High speed on-chip reference buffer with replica source follower is also included for linearity performance. The ADC was fabricated in a standard 130-nm CMOS process and an occupied silicon area of 0.95 mm × 1.15 mm. Performance of 73 dB spurious-free-dynamic-range is measured at 160 MS/s with 1 Vpp input signal. The power dissipation of the analog core chip is only 50 mW from a 1.2 V supply.
TECHNIQUES FOR LOW LEAKAGE NANOSCALE VLSI CIRCUITS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: SHARMA VIJAY KUMAR , PATTANAIK MANISHA
Published: January 2014

Since the last two decades, the trend of device miniaturization has increased to get better performance with a smaller area of the logic functions. In deep submicron regime, the demand of fabrication of nanoscale Complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) VLSI circuits has increased due to evaluation of modern successful portable systems. Leakage power dissipation and reliability issues are major concerns in deep submicron regime for VLSI chip designers. Power supply voltage has been scaled down to maintain the performance yield in future deep submicron regime. The threshold voltage is the critical parameter to trade-off the performance yield and leakage power dissipation in nanoscaled devices. Low threshold voltage improves the device characteristics with large leakage power in nanoscaled devices. Several leakage reduction techniques at different levels are used to mitigate the leakage power dissipation. Lower leakage power increases the reliability by reducing the cooling cost of the portable systems. In this article, we are presenting the explanatory general review of the commonly used leakage reduction techniques at circuit level. We have analyzed the NAND3 gate using HSPICE EDA tool for leakage power dissipation at different technology nodes in active as well as standby modes. Process, voltage and temperature effects are checked for reliability purpose. Our comparative results and discussion of different leakage reduction techniques are very useful to illustrate the effective technique in active and standby modes.
On the blow-up of solutions to the integrable modified Camassa–Holm equation
Authors: Liu Yue , Olver Peter J. , Qu Changzheng , Zhang Shuanghu
Published: January 2014

We derive conditions on the initial data, including cases where the initial momentum density is not of one sign, that produce blow-up of the induced solution to the modified integrable Camassa–Holm equation with cubic nonlinearity. The blow-up conditions are formulated in terms of the initial momentum density and the average initial energy.
NEURONAL MULTIFUNCTIONAL ATPase
Authors: MENZIKOV SERGEY A.
Published: January 2014

Here, we review the properties of a suggested mechanism for a neural ATPase complex based on our recent experimental findings. The mechanism represents a multifunctional ATPase: an enzyme that is a chloride pump and a GABA receptor. This enables new views on the ways Cl - channel transports anions and its regulation by the intra- and extracellular ions and molecules (in particular by glucose, ATP, [Formula: see text]). The hydrolytic activity of this GABA A-coupled ATPase provides the [Formula: see text] transport process the energy and determines a certain direction of ions flux across neuronal membrane. This can help with the research regarding several diseases such as epilepsy.

[Formula: see text]Special Issue Comment: This project is about a multifunctional ATPase complex. Experiments involving measuring & solving individual ATPases are related with the Special Issue about FRET experiments,1 about enzymes,2 and about treatments when solving single molecules.3,4 The model suggested here is simply tested with these experimental and mathematical methods.
THE NAVY PRECISION OPTICAL INTERFEROMETER (NPOI): AN UPDATE
Authors: ARMSTRONG J. T. , HUTTER D. J. , BAINES E. K. , BENSON J. A. , BEVILACQUA R. M. , BUSCHMANN T. , CLARK J. H. , GHASEMPOUR A. , HALL J. C. , HINDSLEY R. B. , JOHNSTON K. J. , JORGENSEN A. M. , MOZURKEWICH D. , MUTERSPAUGH M. W. , RESTAINO S. R. , SHANKLAND P. D. , SCHMITT H. R. , TYCNER C. , VAN BELLE G. T. , ZAVALA R. T.
Published: January 2014

The Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI) has two purposes: wide angle precise astrometry and high-resolution imaging, both at visible wavelengths. It operates with up to six 12-cm diameter apertures simultaneously, with baseline lengths (distances between array elements) from 16 m to 79 m, and disperses the combined light into 16 spectral channels. It has been operational since first fringes were found in 1994; six-beam operations began in 2001. The NPOI is undergoing upgrades in numerous areas: control system and data acquisition improvements, a second beam combiner, additional array stations for both longer and shorter baselines, and supplemental delay lines to improve sky coverage for the longer baselines. Future possibilities include the installation of four fixed 1.8 m telescopes as well as up to six moveable lightweight 1.4 m telescopes. Observing programs, including programs led by outside investigators, cover a broad range of stellar astrophysics as well as observations of geostationary satellites.