bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of isomiR Discrimination Using Commercial qPCR Methods
Authors: Magee Rogan , Telonis Aristeidis G. , Cherlin Tess , Rigoutsos Isidore , Londin Eric
Published: March 2017

We sought to determine whether commercial quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methods are capable of distinguishing isomiRs: variants of mature microRNAs (miRNAs) with sequence endpoint differences. We used two commercially available miRNA qPCR methods to quantify miR-21-5p in both synthetic and real cell contexts. We find that although these miRNA qPCR methods possess high sensitivity for specific sequences, they also pick up background signals from closely related isomiRs, which influences the reliable quantification of individual isomiRs. We conclude that these methods do not possess the requisite specificity for reliable isomiR quantification.
Impact of High-Carbohydrate Diet on Metabolic Parameters in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Jung Chan-Hee , Choi Kyung Mook
Published: March 2017

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), whether dietary carbohydrates have beneficial or detrimental effects on cardiometabolic risk factors has drawn attention. Although a high-carbohydrate (HC) diet and a low-carbohydrate (LC) diet have gained popularity for several decades, there is scarce review focusing on the effects of HC diet on glucose, lipids and body weight in patients with T2DM. In this review, we examined recently-published literature on the effects of HC diets on metabolic parameters in T2DM. HC diets are at least as effective as LC diets, leading to significant weight loss and a reduction in plasma glucose, HbA1c and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. The major concern is that HC diets may raise serum triglyceride levels and reduce high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, these untoward effects were not a persistent consequence and may be ameliorated with the consumption of a low glycemic index (GI)/low glycemic load (GL) and high fiber. Carbohydrate intake should be individualized, and low caloric intake remains a crucial factor to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce body weight; however, an HC diet, rich in fiber and with a low GI/GL, may be recommendable in patients with T2DM.
Fructose-Rich Diet Affects Mitochondrial DNA Damage and Repair in Rats
Authors: Cioffi Federica , Senese Rosalba , Lasala Pasquale , Ziello Angela , Mazzoli Arianna , Crescenzo Raffaella , Liverini Giovanna , Lanni Antonia , Goglia Fernando , Iossa Susanna
Published: March 2017

Evidence indicates that many forms of fructose-induced metabolic disturbance are associated with oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria are prominent targets of oxidative damage; however, it is not clear whether mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage and/or its lack of repair are events involved in metabolic disease resulting from a fructose-rich diet. In the present study, we evaluated the degree of oxidative damage to liver mtDNA and its repair, in addition to the state of oxidative stress and antioxidant defense in the liver of rats fed a high-fructose diet. We used male rats feeding on a high-fructose or control diet for eight weeks. Our results showed an increase in mtDNA damage in the liver of rats fed a high-fructose diet and this damage, as evaluated by the expression of DNA polymerase γ, was not repaired; in addition, the mtDNA copy number was found to be significantly reduced. A reduction in the mtDNA copy number is indicative of impaired mitochondrial biogenesis, as is the finding of a reduction in the expression of genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis. In conclusion, a fructose-rich diet leads to mitochondrial and mtDNA damage, which consequently may have a role in liver dysfunction and metabolic diseases.
Beyond the Cholesterol-Lowering Effect of Soy Protein: A Review of the Effects of Dietary Soy and Its Constituents on Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Ramdath D. , Padhi Emily , Sarfaraz Sidra , Renwick Simone , Duncan Alison
Published: March 2017

The hypocholesterolemic effect of soy is well-documented and this has led to the regulatory approval of a health claim relating soy protein to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, soybeans contain additional components, such as isoflavones, lecithins, saponins and fiber that may improve cardiovascular health through independent mechanisms. This review summarizes the evidence on the cardiovascular benefits of non-protein soy components in relation to known CVD risk factors such as hypertension, hyperglycemia, inflammation, and obesity beyond cholesterol lowering. Overall, the available evidence suggests non-protein soy constituents improve markers of cardiovascular health; however, additional carefully designed studies are required to independently elucidate these effects. Further, work is also needed to clarify the role of isoflavone-metabolizing phenotype and gut microbiota composition on biological effect.
Developing Professional Identity in Undergraduate Pharmacy Students: A Role for Self-Determination Theory
Authors: Mylrea Martina , Sen Gupta Tarun , Glass Beverley
Published: March 2017

Professional identity development, seen as essential in the transition from student to professional, needs to be owned by the universities in order to ensure a workforce appropriately prepared to provide global health care in the future. The development of professional identity involves a focus on who the student is becoming, as well as what they know or can do, and requires authentic learning experiences such as practice exposure and interaction with pharmacist role models. This article examines conceptual frameworks aligned with professional identity development and will explore the role for self-determination theory (SDT) in pharmacy professional education. SDT explains the concepts of competence, relatedness and autonomy and the part they play in producing highly motivated individuals, leading to the development of one’s sense of self. Providing support for students in these three critical areas may, in accordance with the tenets of SDT, have the potential to increase motivation levels and their sense of professional identity.
Pentiptycene-Derived Fluorescence Turn-Off Polymer Chemosensor for Copper(II) Cation with High Selectivity and Sensitivity
Authors: Chen Anting , Wu Wei , Fegley Megan , Pinnock Sherryllene , Duffy-Matzner Jetty , Bernier William , Jones Wayne
Published: March 2017

Fluorescent conjugated polymers (FCPs) have been explored for selective detection of metal cations with ultra-sensitivity in environmental and biological systems. Herein, a new FCP sensor, tmeda-PPpETE (poly[(pentiptycene ethynylene)-alt-(thienylene ethynylene)] with a N,N,N′-trimethylethylenediamino receptor), has been designed and synthesized via Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction with the goal of improving solid state polymer sensor development. The polymer was found to be emissive at λmax ~ 459 nm under UV radiation with a quantum yield of 0.119 at room temperature in THF solution. By incorporating diamino receptors and pentiptycene groups into the poly[(phenylene ethynylene)-(thiophene ethynylene)] (PPETE) backbone, the polymer showed an improved turn-off response towards copper(II) cation, with more than 99% quenching in fluorescence emission. It is capable of discriminating copper(II) cation from sixteen common cations, with a detection limit of 16.5 nM (1.04 ppb).
A Novel Approach for Coarse-to-Fine Windthrown Tree Extraction Based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Images
Authors: Duan Fuzhou , Wan Yangchun , Deng Lei
Published: March 2017

Surveys of windthrown trees, resulting from hurricanes and other types of natural disasters, are an important component of agricultural insurance, forestry statistics, and ecological monitoring. Aerial images are commonly used to determine the total area or number of downed trees, but conventional methods suffer from two primary issues: misclassification of windthrown trees due to the interference from other objects or artifacts, and poor extraction resolution when trunk diameters are small. The objective of this study is to develop a coarse-to-fine extraction technique for individual windthrown trees that reduces the effects of these common flaws. The developed method was tested using UAV imagery collected over rubber plantations on Hainan Island after the Nesat typhoon in China on 19 October 2011. First, a coarse extraction of the affected area was performed by analyzing the image spectrum and textural characteristics. A thinning algorithm was then used to simplify downed trees into skeletal structures. Finally, fine extraction of individual trees was achieved using a line detection algorithm. The completeness of windthrown trees in the study area was 75.7% and the correctness was 92.5%. While similar values have been reported in other studies, they often include constraints, such as tree height. This technique is proposed to be a more feasible extraction algorithm as it is capable of achieving low commission errors across a broad range of tree heights and sizes. As such, it is a viable option for extraction of windthrown trees with a small trunk diameter.
A Secure and Privacy-Preserving Navigation Scheme Using Spatial Crowdsourcing in Fog-Based VANETs
Authors: Wang Lingling , Liu Guozhu , Sun Lijun
Published: March 2017

Fog-based VANETs (Vehicular ad hoc networks) is a new paradigm of vehicular ad hoc networks with the advantages of both vehicular cloud and fog computing. Real-time navigation schemes based on fog-based VANETs can promote the scheme performance efficiently. In this paper, we propose a secure and privacy-preserving navigation scheme by using vehicular spatial crowdsourcing based on fog-based VANETs. Fog nodes are used to generate and release the crowdsourcing tasks, and cooperatively find the optimal route according to the real-time traffic information collected by vehicles in their coverage areas. Meanwhile, the vehicle performing the crowdsourcing task can get a reasonable reward. The querying vehicle can retrieve the navigation results from each fog node successively when entering its coverage area, and follow the optimal route to the next fog node until it reaches the desired destination. Our scheme fulfills the security and privacy requirements of authentication, confidentiality and conditional privacy preservation. Some cryptographic primitives, including the Elgamal encryption algorithm, AES, randomized anonymous credentials and group signatures, are adopted to achieve this goal. Finally, we analyze the security and the efficiency of the proposed scheme.
Radar Interferometry for Monitoring the Vibration Characteristics of Buildings and Civil Structures: Recent Case Studies in Spain
Authors: Luzi Guido , Crosetto Michele , Fernández Enric
Published: March 2017

The potential of a coherent microwave sensor to monitor the vibration characteristics of civil structures has been investigated in the past decade, and successful case studies have been published by different research teams. This remote sensing technique is based on the interferometric processing of real aperture radar acquisitions. Its capability to estimate, simultaneously and remotely, the displacement of different parts of the investigated structures, with high accuracy and repeatability, is its main advantage with respect to conventional sensors. A considerable amount of literature on this technique is available, including various case studies aimed at testing the ambient vibration of bridges, buildings, and towers. In the last years, this technique has been used in Spain for civil structures monitoring. In this paper, three examples of such case studies are described: the monitoring of the suspended bridge crossing the Ebro River at Amposta, the communications tower of Collserola in Barcelona, and an urban building located in Vilafranca del Penedès, a small town close to Barcelona. This paper summarizes the main outcomes of these case studies, underlining the advantages and limitations of the sensors currently available, and concluding with the possible improvements expected from the next generation of sensors.
A Polynomial Subset-Based Efficient Multi-Party Key Management System for Lightweight Device Networks
Authors: Mahmood Zahid , Ning Huansheng , Ghafoor AtaUllah
Published: March 2017

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) consist of lightweight devices to measure sensitive data that are highly vulnerable to security attacks due to their constrained resources. In a similar manner, the internet-based lightweight devices used in the Internet of Things (IoT) are facing severe security and privacy issues because of the direct accessibility of devices due to their connection to the internet. Complex and resource-intensive security schemes are infeasible and reduce the network lifetime. In this regard, we have explored the polynomial distribution-based key establishment schemes and identified an issue that the resultant polynomial value is either storage intensive or infeasible when large values are multiplied. It becomes more costly when these polynomials are regenerated dynamically after each node join or leave operation and whenever key is refreshed. To reduce the computation, we have proposed an Efficient Key Management (EKM) scheme for multiparty communication-based scenarios. The proposed session key management protocol is established by applying a symmetric polynomial for group members, and the group head acts as a responsible node. The polynomial generation method uses security credentials and secure hash function. Symmetric cryptographic parameters are efficient in computation, communication, and the storage required. The security justification of the proposed scheme has been completed by using Rubin logic, which guarantees that the protocol attains mutual validation and session key agreement property strongly among the participating entities. Simulation scenarios are performed using NS 2.35 to validate the results for storage, communication, latency, energy, and polynomial calculation costs during authentication, session key generation, node migration, secure joining, and leaving phases. EKM is efficient regarding storage, computation, and communication overhead and can protect WSN-based IoT infrastructure.
Real-Time Gait Event Detection Based on Kinematic Data Coupled to a Biomechanical Model †
Authors: Lambrecht Stefan , Harutyunyan Anna , Tanghe Kevin , Afschrift Maarten , De Schutter Joris , Jonkers Ilse
Published: March 2017

Real-time detection of multiple stance events, more specifically initial contact (IC), foot flat (FF), heel off (HO), and toe off (TO), could greatly benefit neurorobotic (NR) and neuroprosthetic (NP) control. Three real-time threshold-based algorithms have been developed, detecting the aforementioned events based on kinematic data in combination with a biomechanical model. Data from seven subjects walking at three speeds on an instrumented treadmill were used to validate the presented algorithms, accumulating to a total of 558 steps. The reference for the gait events was obtained using marker and force plate data. All algorithms had excellent precision and no false positives were observed. Timing delays of the presented algorithms were similar to current state-of-the-art algorithms for the detection of IC and TO, whereas smaller delays were achieved for the detection of FF. Our results indicate that, based on their high precision and low delays, these algorithms can be used for the control of an NR/NP, with the exception of the HO event. Kinematic data is used in most NR/NP control schemes and is thus available at no additional cost, resulting in a minimal computational burden. The presented methods can also be applied for screening pathological gait or gait analysis in general in/outside of the laboratory.
Using an Active-Optical Sensor to Develop an Optimal NDVI Dynamic Model for High-Yield Rice Production (Yangtze, China)
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Ferguson Richard , Zheng Hengbiao , Cao Qiang , Tian Yongchao , Cao Weixing , Zhu Yan
Published: March 2017

The successful development of an optimal canopy vegetation index dynamic model for obtaining higher yield can offer a technical approach for real-time and nondestructive diagnosis of rice (Oryza sativa L) growth and nitrogen (N) nutrition status. In this study, multiple rice cultivars and N treatments of experimental plots were carried out to obtain: normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), leaf area index (LAI), above-ground dry matter (DM), and grain yield (GY) data. The quantitative relationships between NDVI and these growth indices (e.g., LAI, DM and GY) were analyzed, showing positive correlations. Using the normalized modeling method, an appropriate NDVI simulation model of rice was established based on the normalized NDVI (RNDVI) and relative accumulative growing degree days (RAGDD). The NDVI dynamic model for high-yield production in rice can be expressed by a double logistic model: RNDVI = ( 1 + e − 15.2829 × ( R A G D D i − 0.1944 ) ) − 1 − ( 1 + e − 11.6517 × ( R A G D D i − 1.0267 ) ) − 1 (R2 = 0.8577**), which can be used to accurately predict canopy NDVI dynamic changes during the entire growth period. Considering variation among rice cultivars, we constructed two relative NDVI (RNDVI) dynamic models for Japonica and Indica rice types, with R2 reaching 0.8764** and 0.8874**, respectively. Furthermore, independent experimental data were used to validate the RNDVI dynamic models. The results showed that during the entire growth period, the accuracy (k), precision (R2), and standard deviation of RNDVI dynamic models for the Japonica and Indica cultivars were 0.9991, 1.0170; 0.9084**, 0.8030**; and 0.0232, 0.0170, respectively. These results indicated that RNDVI dynamic models could accurately reflect crop growth and predict dynamic changes in high-yield crop populations, providing a rapid approach for monitoring rice growth status.
How to Make Reliable, Washable, and Wearable Textronic Devices
Authors: Tao Xuyuan , Koncar Vladan , Huang Tzu-Hao , Shen Chien-Lung , Ko Ya-Chi , Jou Gwo-Tsuen
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the washability of wearable textronic (textile-electronic) devices has been studied. Two different approaches aiming at designing, producing, and testing robust washable and reliable smart textile systems are presented. The common point of the two approaches is the use of flexible conductive PCB in order to interface the miniaturized rigid (traditional) electronic devices to conductive threads and tracks within the textile flexible fabric and to connect them to antenna, textile electrodes, sensors, actuators, etc. The first approach consists in the use of TPU films (thermoplastic polyurethane) that are deposited by the press under controlled temperature and pressure parameters in order to protect the conductive thread and electrical contacts. The washability of conductive threads and contact resistances between flexible PCB and conductive threads are tested. The second approach is focused on the protection of the whole system—composed of a rigid electronic device, flexible PCB, and textile substrate—by a barrier made of latex. Three types of prototypes were realized and washed. Their reliabilities are studied.
Construction of an Acetylcholinesterase Sensor Based on Synthesized Paramagnetic Nanoparticles, a Simple Tool for Neurotoxic Compounds Assay
Authors: Kostelnik Adam , Kopel Pavel , Cegan Alexander , Pohanka Miroslav
Published: March 2017

Magnetic particles (MPs) have been widely used in biological applications in recent years as a carrier for various molecules. Their big advantage is in repeated use of immobilized molecules including enzymes. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is an enzyme playing crucial role in neurotransmission and the enzyme is targeted by various molecules like Alzheimer’s drugs, pesticides and warfare agents. In this work, an electrochemical biosensor having AChE immobilized onto MPs and stabilized through glutaraldehyde (GA) molecule was proposed for assay of the neurotoxic compounds. The prepared nanoparticles were modified by pure AChE and they were used for the measurement anti-Alzheimer’s drug galantamine and carbamate pesticide carbofuran with limit of detection 1.5 µM and 20 nM, respectively. All measurements were carried out using screen-printed sensor with carbon working, silver reference, and carbon auxiliary electrode. Standard Ellman’s assay was used for validation measurement of both inhibitors. Part of this work was the elimination of reversible inhibitors represented by galantamine from the active site of AChE. For this purpose, we used a lower pH to get the original activity of AChE after inhibition by galantamine. We also observed decarbamylation of the AChE-carbofuran adduct. Influence of organic solvents to AChE as well as repeatability of measurement with MPs with AChE was also established.
Effects of Urbanization on Rural Drinking Water Quality in Beijing, China
Authors: Zhang Lan , Gao Shenghua , Wei Binggan , Li Yonghua , Li Hairong , Wang Li , Ye Bixiong
Published: March 2017

Urbanization is an inevitable trend in historical development, but eco-environmental problems, including drinking water safety, have gradually become more and more outstanding during the process of rural urbanization. Ten districts in rural areas of Beijing, China were selected to study the effects of urbanization on drinking water quality. The relation between the urbanization index and drinking water quality indicators were explored. The influence of the urbanization process on drinking water quality showed that housing construction, population urbanization, energy consumption, and industrialization during urban development were closely related to drinking water quality. The paired t-test showed the total electricity consumption, living electricity consumption, tertiary industry, and the GDP growth rate had boundary (p = 0.06) or significantly positive (p < 0.05) relations with the qualified rate of rural drinking water. The grey correlation analysis showed that the growth rates of the value-added of housing construction areas were the most important factor affecting comprehensive water quality of Beijing rural areas, followed by the growth rates of the value-added by secondary industry and total electricity consumption, and then the growth rates of the value-added by the tertiary industry and GDP. Urbanization had a significant impact on individual water quality indicators. The results of this study provided some supports for drinking water security in the face of urbanization.
Integrating Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Balanced Scorecard (BSC) Framework for Sustainable Business in a Software Factory in the Financial Sector
Authors: Álvarez Pérez César , Rodríguez Montequín Vicente , Ortega Fernández Francisco , Villanueva Balsera Joaquín
Published: March 2017

A balanced scorecard (BSC) framework for a factory that develops software for banking was proposed by us at the end of 2015 to ensure its sustainability, and was focused on improving its productivity and cost. Based on this framework, the aim of this study is to construct an approach using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and BSC for evaluating a factory’s performance in order for it to become a sustainable business. In this study, AHP is proposed to prioritise and determine weights for the perspectives and indicators included in the BSC for a financial software factory (FSF). The combination of these weights with different indicator measures produces a model that provides an effective assessment tool for FSF managers. The results of the study, which are shown both globally and disaggregated according to the different roles of FSF stakeholders, show that user satisfaction is the main pillar for making decisions. In addition, the result considering roles shows differences according to the relationship of each stakeholder with the software factory. The current study has been validated in a Spanish factory that develops software for several financial entities.
Transformation Planning for Resilient Wildlife Habitats in Ecotourism Systems
Authors: Choi Yun , Song Kihwan , Kim Min , Lee Junga
Published: March 2017

An ecotourism system that is based on wildlife habitats in ecological systems is considered a social-ecological system that has a feedback relationship with social systems. Increases in socioeconomic activities and tourism infrastructure construction are not conducive to the resilience of wildlife habitats, thereby stressing the ecological system and threatening sustainable ecotourism. Managing resilient wildlife habitats by developing transformation plans that can be used to construct new systems through self-organization and the absorption of stress is paramount to perpetuating sustainable ecotourism systems. This study aims to establish transformation plans to enhance the resilience of systems thinking regarding wildlife habitats. Such thinking involves the sequential application of dynamic thinking, causal thinking, closed-loop thinking, and the discovery of strategies. This study examines the case study of Eulsukdo Island in South Korea, and the following transformation plans are derived: (1) high-quality eco-education programs to help tourists become hard ecotourists; (2) subsidies for foraging area restoration; (3) ecosystem services of wildlife habitats; and (4) governance organization led by multiple actors. The results of this study can provide guidelines for the effective use of natural resources at ecotourism destinations and for the ecotourism development of damaged wildlife habitats.
Mycotoxin Biotransformation by Native and Commercial Enzymes: Present and Future Perspectives
Authors: Loi Martina , Fanelli Francesca , Liuzzi Vania , Logrieco Antonio , Mulè Giuseppina
Published: March 2017

Worldwide mycotoxins contamination has a significant impact on animal and human health, and leads to economic losses accounted for billions of dollars annually. Since the application of pre- and post- harvest strategies, including chemical or physical removal, are not sufficiently effective, biological transformation is considered the most promising yet challenging approach to reduce mycotoxins accumulation. Although several microorganisms were reported to degrade mycotoxins, only a few enzymes have been identified, purified and characterized for this activity. This review focuses on the biotransformation of mycotoxins performed with purified enzymes isolated from bacteria, fungi and plants, whose activity was validated in in vitro and in vivo assays, including patented ones and commercial preparations. Furthermore, we will present some applications for detoxifying enzymes in food, feed, biogas and biofuel industries, describing their limitation and potentialities.
Type IV Secretion and Signal Transduction of Helicobacter pylori CagA through Interactions with Host Cell Receptors
Authors: Backert Steffen , Tegtmeyer Nicole
Published: March 2017

Helicobacter pylori is a highly successful human bacterium, which is exceptionally equipped to persistently inhabit the human stomach. Colonization by this pathogen is associated with gastric disorders ranging from chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers to cancer. Highly virulent H. pylori strains express the well-established adhesins BabA/B, SabA, AlpA/B, OipA, and HopQ, and a type IV secretion system (T4SS) encoded by the cag pathogenicity island (PAI). The adhesins ascertain intimate bacterial contact to gastric epithelial cells, while the T4SS represents an extracellular pilus-like structure for the translocation of the effector protein CagA. Numerous T4SS components including CagI, CagL, CagY, and CagA have been shown to target the integrin-β1 receptor followed by translocation of CagA across the host cell membrane. The interaction of CagA with membrane-anchored phosphatidylserine and CagA-containing outer membrane vesicles may also play a role in the delivery process. Translocated CagA undergoes tyrosine phosphorylation in C-terminal EPIYA-repeat motifs by oncogenic Src and Abl kinases. CagA then interacts with an array of host signaling proteins followed by their activation or inactivation in phosphorylation-dependent and phosphorylation-independent fashions. We now count about 25 host cell binding partners of intracellular CagA, which represent the highest quantity of all currently known virulence-associated effector proteins in the microbial world. Here we review the research progress in characterizing interactions of CagA with multiple host cell receptors in the gastric epithelium, including integrin-β1, EGFR, c-Met, CD44, E-cadherin, and gp130. The contribution of these interactions to H. pylori colonization, signal transduction, and gastric pathogenesis is discussed.
Dark Energy Constraints from Espresso Tests of the Stability of Fundamental Couplings
Authors: Leite Ana , Martins Carlos , Molaro Paolo
Published: March 2017

ESPRESSO is a high-resolution-ultra-stable spectrograph for the Very Large Telescope (VLT), whose commissioning will start in 2017. One of its key science goals is to test the stability of nature’s fundamental couplings with unprecedented accuracy and control of possible systematics. A total of 27 nights of the ESPRESSO Consortium’s guaranteed time observations (GTO) will be spent on testing the stability of the fine-structure constant and other fundamental couplings. A set of 14 priority optimal targets have been selected for the GTO period. In this work, we discuss the criteria underlying this selection, describe the selected targets, and present some forecasts of the impact of these measurements on fundamental physics and cosmology, focusing on dark energy constraints and using future supernova type Ia surveys as a comparison point. This report is a summary of the results reported in Phys. Rev. D 2016, 94, 123512, to which we refer the reader for further details.
LINC00052 Promotes Gastric Cancer Cell Proliferation and Metastasis via Activating the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Shan Yuqiang , Ying Rongchao , Jia Zhong , Kong Wencheng , Wu Yi , Zheng Sixin , Jin Huicheng
Published: March 2017

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive system. The etiology of GC is complex, and much more attention should be paid to genetic factors. In this study, we explored the role and function of LINC00052 in GC. We applied qRT-PCR and Northern blot
to detect the expression of LINC00052 and found it was highly expressed during GC. We also investigated the effects of LINC00052 on tumor prognosis and progression and found that LINC00052 indicated poor prognosis and tumor progression. By performing MTT, colony formation, and Transwell assays,
we found that LINC00052 promoted MGC-803 cell proliferation and metastasis. Pull-down and RIP assays showed that LINC00052 could interact with β-catenin and methyltransferase SMYD2, and immunoprecipitation detection showed that LINC00052 promoted β-catenin methylation to maintain
its stability, so as to activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Furthermore, XAV939 (inhibitor of β-catenin) was used to treat MGC-803 cells, and we found that LINC00052 promoted proliferation and metastasis, possibly by activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In conclusion, our
research demonstrated a carcinogenic role for LINC000052 in GC, which may represent a new approach for the prevention and therapy of this cancer.
The Secret Lives of Cepheids: δ Cep—The Prototype of a New Class of Pulsating X-Ray Variable Stars*
Authors: Engle Scott G. , Guinan Edward F. , Harper Graham M. , Cuntz Manfred , Evans Nancy Remage , Neilson Hilding R. , Fawzy Diaa E.
Published: March 2017

From our Secret Lives of Cepheids program, the prototype Classical Cepheid, δ Cep, is found to be an X-ray source with periodic pulsation-modulated X-ray variations. This finding complements our earlier reported phase-dependent FUV–UV emissions of the star that increase ∼10–20 times with highest fluxes at

, just prior to maximum brightness. Previously δ Cep was found as potentially X-ray variable, using XMM-Newton observations. Additional phase-constrained data were secured with Chandra near X-ray emission peak, to determine if the emission and variability were pulsation-phase-specific to δ Cep and not transient or due to a possible coronally active, cool companion. The Chandra data were combined with prior XMM-Newton observations, and were found to very closely match the previously observed X-ray behavior. From the combined data set, a ∼4 increase in X-ray flux is measured, reaching a peak

 = 1.7 × 1029 erg s−1 near 0.45ϕ. The precise X-ray flux phasing with the star’s pulsation indicates that the emissions arise from the Cepheid and not from a companion. However, it is puzzling that the maximum X-ray flux occurs ∼0.5ϕ (∼3 days) later than the FUV–UV maximum. There are several other potential Cepheid X-ray detections with properties similar to δ Cep, and comparable X-ray variability is indicated for two other Cepheids: β Dor and V473 Lyr. X-ray generating mechanisms in δ Cep and other Cepheids are discussed. If additional Cepheids are confirmed to show phased X-ray variations, then δ Cep will be the prototype of a new class of pulsation-induced X-ray variables.
C iii] Emission in Star-forming Galaxies at z ∼ 1
Authors: Du 杜 Xinnan 辛楠 , Shapley Alice E. , Martin Crystal L. , Coil Alison L.
Published: March 2017

The C iii]λλ1907, 1909 rest-frame UV emission doublet has recently been detected in galaxies during the epoch of reionization (z > 6), with a high equivalent width (EW; 10 Å, rest frame). Currently, it is possible to obtain much more detailed information for star-forming galaxies at significantly lower redshift. Accordingly, studies of their far-UV spectra are useful for understanding the factors modulating the strength of C iii] emission. We present the first statistical sample of C iii] emission measurements in star-forming galaxies at z ∼ 1. Our sample is drawn from the DEEP2 survey and spans the redshifts 0.64 

 z 

 1.35 (

). We find that the median EW of individual C iii] detections in our sample (1.30 Å) is much smaller than the typical value observed thus far at z > 6. Furthermore, out of 184 galaxies with coverage of C iii], only 40 have significant detections. Galaxies with individual C iii] detections have bluer colors and lower luminosities on average than those without, implying that strong C iii] emitters are in general young and low-mass galaxies without significant dust extinction. Using stacked spectra, we further investigate how C iii] strength correlates with multiple galaxy properties (M

B
, U − B, M
*, star formation rate, specific star formation rate) and rest-frame near-UV (Fe ii* and Mg ii) and optical ([O iii] and Hβ) emission line strengths. These results provide a detailed picture of the physical environment in star-forming galaxies at z ∼ 1, and motivate future observations of strong C iii] emitters at similar redshifts.
Transverse Oscillations in Slender Ca ii H Fibrils Observed with Sunrise/SuFI
Authors: Jafarzadeh S. , Solanki S. K. , Gafeira R. , Noort M. van , Barthol P. , Rodríguez J. Blanco , Iniesta J. C. del Toro , Gandorfer A. , Gizon L. , Hirzberger J. , Knölker M. , Suárez D. Orozco , Riethmüller T. L. , Schmidt W.
Published: March 2017

We present observations of transverse oscillations in slender Ca ii H fibrils (SCFs) in the lower solar chromosphere. We use a 1 hr long time series of high- (spatial and temporal-) resolution seeing-free observations in a 1.1 Å wide passband covering the line core of Ca ii H 3969 Å from the second flight of the Sunrise balloon-borne solar observatory. The entire field of view, spanning the polarity inversion line of an active region close to the solar disk center, is covered with bright, thin, and very dynamic fine structures. Our analysis reveals the prevalence of transverse waves in SCFs with median amplitudes and periods on the order of 2.4 ± 0.8 km s−1 and 83 ± 29 s, respectively (with standard deviations given as uncertainties). We find that the transverse waves often propagate along (parts of) the SCFs with median phase speeds of 9 ± 14 km s−1. While the propagation is only in one direction along the axis in some of the SCFs, propagating waves in both directions, as well as standing waves are also observed. The transverse oscillations are likely Alfvénic and are thought to be representative of magnetohydrodynamic kink waves. The wave propagation suggests that the rapid high-frequency transverse waves, often produced in the lower photosphere, can penetrate into the chromosphere with an estimated energy flux of ≈15 kW m−2. Characteristics of these waves differ from those reported for other fibrillar structures, which, however, were observed mainly in the upper solar chromosphere.
Discovery of Extreme [O iii]+Hβ Emitting Galaxies Tracing an Overdensity at z ∼ 3.5 in CDF-South∗
Authors: Forrest Ben , Tran Kim-Vy H. , Broussard Adam , Allen Rebecca J. , Apfel Miranda , Cowley Michael J. , Glazebrook Karl , Kacprzak Glenn G. , Labbé Ivo , Nanayakkara Themiya , Papovich Casey , Quadri Ryan F. , Spitler Lee R. , Straatman Caroline M. S. , Tomczak Adam
Published: March 2017

Using deep multi-wavelength photometry of galaxies from zfourge, we group galaxies at

by the shape of their spectral energy distributions (SEDs). We identify a population of galaxies with excess emission in the K

s
-band, which corresponds to [O iii]+Hβ emission at

. This population includes 78% of the bluest galaxies with UV slopes steeper than

. We de-redshift and scale this photometry to build two composite SEDs, enabling us to measure equivalent widths of these extreme [O iii]+Hβ emission line galaxies (EELGs) at

. We identify 60 galaxies that comprise a composite SED with a [O iii]+Hβ rest-frame equivalent width of 803 ± 228 Å and another 218 galaxies in a composite SED with an equivalent width of 230 ± 90 Å. These EELGs are analogous to the “green peas” found in the SDSS and are thought to be undergoing their first burst of star formation due to their blue colors (

), young ages (

), and low dust attenuation values. Their strong nebular emission lines and compact sizes (typically ∼1.4 kpc) are consistent with the properties of the star-forming galaxies possibly responsible for reionizing the universe at

. Many of the EELGs also exhibit Lyα emission. Additionally, we find that many of these sources are clustered in an overdensity in the Chandra Deep Field South, with five spectroscopically confirmed members at

. The spatial distribution and photometric redshifts of the zfourge population further confirm the overdensity highlighted by the EELGs.
La structuration atlantique des European Studies
Authors: Cohen Antonin
Published: March 2017

En suivant la principale entreprise menée par la Fondation Ford pour instituer les European Studies , des années 1950 aux années 1970, cet article montre en quoi les stratégies transnationales en lien direct avec l’institutionnalisation du champ du pouvoir européen se heurtent aux résistances des champs nationaux. Les « études européennes » ne sont en effet que la partie résiduelle de stratégies beaucoup plus ambitieuses pour créer une véritable « université européenne ». Dans ce dossier spécial sur la sociohistoire de la science politique, cet article illustre ainsi le fait que la « discipline » ne peut être appréhendée isolément d’autres espaces sociaux qui lui sont en apparence étrangers.
Microbiological analysis of raw edible insects
Authors: Grabowski N.T. , Klein G.
Published: March 2017

Relatively little is known about the microbiological quality of edible insects. In Germany, living insects are also bought from pet shops, rededicating thus a feedstuff to a foodstuff. A preliminary survey was conducted to assess the microbiological quality of these animals. Samples of raw insects (Acheta domesticus, Gryllus assimilis, Gryllus bimaculatus, Locusta migratoria, Blabtica dubia, Galleria mellonella, Chilecomadia moorei, Pachnoda marginata, Tenebrio molitor, Zophobas atratus, andApis mellifera) from pet shops were analysed using classical food hygiene parameters (total aerobial mesophilic bacterial count (TBC),Enterobacteriaceae count (EC), staphylococci (SC), bacilli (BC), yeasts and moulds counts (YMC), salmonellae,Escherichia coli, andListeria monocytogenes). They were also inoculated on blood agar for specific microbial identification. Merged samples were taken from living animals (n=39), dead ones (n=7), and the bedding material (n=16) of the boxes they were sold in. Geometric means per species variedbetween 5.7 and 7.5 (TBC), 5.5 and 7.3 (EC), ≤6.1 (SC), ≤5.6 (YMC), and 3.5 and 7.2 lg cfu/g (BC), each displaying a individual microbial pattern. Dead animal values ranged above those of living ones, while bedding materials’ values could be higher or lower. From blood agar plates, coagulase-negative staphylococci,Enterobacteriaceae (typicallyProteus spp. andSerratia liquefaciens), pseudomonads and fungi (e.g.Candida albicans, Issatchenkia orientalis, Geotrichum spp.) were isolated. All samples were free of salmonellae,E. coli,L. monocytogenes, andStaphylococcus aureus, complying thus with the food hygiene criteria recently issued by Belgium and the Netherlands. Process hygiene criteria however were not met entirely due to elevated TBC and EC. These high bacterial counts and the presence of many (opportunistic) pathogenic and spoiling agents found also typically in other foodstuffs create the need to heat insects thoroughly before consumption.
Edible insects and research needs
Authors: van Huis A.
Published: March 2017

The recent research interest is illustrated by the many refereed articles that appeared during the last years. Only in 2016, there were 47 articles listed in Web of Science (consulted 15 February 2017) when using ‘edible insects’ compared to only 25 during the entire five-year period 2006-2010. At the start of 2017 there are close to 200 start-up companies worldwide (http://tinyurl.com/zyotzcy). In 2016, a number of organisations made predictions about how the global edible insect market will grow. With an increased interest, what are the research challenges ahead of us? Where should we be focussing on? What are the bottlenecks to be solved to make it a viable sector?
Role of some epigenetic factors in DNA damage response pathway
Authors: Tiwari Mrinalini , Parvez Suhel , Agrawala Paban K.
Published: March 2017

The current review gives a brief account of the DNA damage response pathway and involvement of various epigenetic mechanisms in DNA damage response pathway. The main focus is on histone modifications leading to structural alterations in chromatin since the compact chromatin structure poses a major limitation in the DNA repair process. Based on this hypothesis, our laboratory has also evaluated certain histone deacetylase inhibitors as potential radiomitigators and the same has been discussed in brief at the end of the review.
Fatimíes y taifas: la moneda de oro fatimí en al-Andalus
Authors: Doménech-Belda Carolina
Published: March 2017

Este trabajo tiene por objeto analizar la presencia de la moneda de oro fatimí en al-Andalus y su vinculación con el numerario de los Estados taifas. Se realiza una puesta al día de los datos conocidos a partir de los hallazgos, tanto de conjuntos monetales como de piezas aisladas. Este análisis permite obtener una visión de conjunto del numerario de oro fatimí hallado en territorio andalusí, cuantificar y delimitar el alcance de dicha presencia, determinar su especial interacción con algunas taifas como Valencia, Toledo o Zaragoza, cuyas monedas aparecen atesoradas junto a las fatimíes de forma constante, y precisar el momento histórico en el que se enmarca la llegada y el atesoramiento de este numerario. Se observa que gran parte de estas monedas proceden de Sicilia donde fueron acuñadas en un momento en el que los fatimíes ya no tenían el control directo de la isla, y donde predominaron las rubā‘as o cuartos de dinar. Las rubā‘as son mayoritarias en los hallazgos andalusíes, frente a los dinares unidad que son escasos a pesar de ser la especie monetaria más usada en territorio fatimí. Estas fracciones debieron ser muy apreciadas en el al-Andalus del siglo XI por la calidad de su metal y convivieron con las fracciones de dinar acuñadas por los Estados taifas junto a las que se atesoraron.
Heat Transfer in Supercritical Fluids
Authors: Rutin Sergey B. , Yampol'skiy Aleksandr D. , Skripov Pavel V.
Published: March 2017

Results of experimental study of non-stationary heat transfer in supercritical fluids, which were obtained using the method of controlled pulse heating of low-inertia wire probe, are discussed. The aim of this study was to clarify the peculiarities of heat conduction mode at significant heat loads. A threshold decrease in the “instant” heat transfer coefficient, the more pronounced the closer the pressure value to critical pressure, has been found, as well as the absence of impact of the isobaric heat capacity peak known from stationary measurements on the experimental results. These results give new insights into selection of the operating pressure of supercritical heat transfer agent. Small time and spatial scale in the experiments (units of millisecond and units of micrometer) in combination with high-power heat release (up to 20 MW/m2) makes it possible to associate the results with the behavior of boundary layer region of heat transfer agent.
The Basic Thermal Hydraulic Issues of Applying Supercritical Fluid to Nuclear Reactors
Authors: Yan Xiao , Zang Jinguang , Xiong Ting , Sui Xi , Huang Yanping , Xiao Zejun
Published: March 2017

This chapter is mainly focused on illustrating some introductory progress on thermal hydraulic issues of supercritical water, including heat transfer characteristics, pressure loss characteristics, flow stability issues and numerical method. These works are mainly performed in Nuclear Power Institute of China (NPIC) these years, to give a basic idea of elementary but important topics in this area. An analytical method was proposed up to predict the heat transfer coefficient and friction coefficient based on the two-layer wall function. Flow instability experiments have been carried out in a two-parallel-channel system with supercritical water, aiming to provide an up-to-date knowledge of supercritical flow instability phenomena and initial validation data for numerical analysis. An in-house code has been developed in NPIC in order to better utilize and further expand the experimental results on supercritical flow instability. At last, some future research directions are suggested for reference.
Supercritical Fluids as a Tool for Green Energy and Chemicals
Authors: Hrnčič Maša Knez , Cör Darija , Knez Željko
Published: March 2017

Hydrothermal conversion of biomass is a promising technology for the conversion of biomass into biofuels and biobased chemicals. This chapter is focused on the waste biomass conversion for production of biofuels and chemicals by applying sub- and supercritical fluids. One of the biggest disadvantages in biomass conversion by SCF is the extremely high energy requirement for heating the media above the water critical point (374 °C, 221 bar). The idea behind the recent research is to reduce the operating temperature and energy requirements by processing biomass with water at much higher pressures. The importance of knowledge on behavior of multicomponent systems at elevated pressures and temperatures is underlined. Methods, developed by the authors of this chapter for determination of thermodynamic and transport properties for multicomponent systems of different solid compounds and supercritical fluid under extreme conditions are described. Future perspective of hydrothermal technology as a tool to obtain advanced materials and the possible scope for future research is also discussed.