bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microarray based circRNA expression profiles in uremic plasma and PBMCs due to chronic glomerulonephritis
Authors: Wang Xi , Dai Yong , Zhang Wanfan , SunDonglin S , Zhang Xinzhou
Published: November 2016

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified in many diseases and shown to
play important roles in pathological processes. The expression patterns of
circRNA in uremia remains unknown. The aim of this study was to screen
circRNA in plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)in healthy
controls and patients with uremia due to chronic glomerulonephritis, and to
provide evidence for further exploration of the pathogenesis, diagnosis and
treatment of uremic patients. Twenty individuals were included in this study,
of which 10 were healthy and 10 were patients with uremia caused by chronic
glomerulonephritis without systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE). Peripheral
blood was collected from each individual in the two groups and the
PBMCs were separated. The circRNAs expression profile was examined using a human
circRNA microarray. The expression of differently expressed circRNAs was
further validated by qRT-PCR. Seven hundred ten circRNAs were differentially
expressed in the plasma in the two groups, accounting for 27.58% of the total
circRNA(710/2578). Three hundred eighty-five up regulated circRNAs accounted
for 14.93% and 325 down regulated circRNAs accounted for 12.60% of the total
circRNAs. Additionally, 968 circRNAs were differentially expressed in
PBMCs in the two groups, accounting for 29.24% of all circRNAs (968/3310).Six
hundred seventy upregulated circRNAs accounted for 20.24% and 298
down regulated circRNAs accounted for 9.00% of the total circRNAs. The
results of qRT-PCR validation were consistent with the microarray gene
expression results. The expression profile of circRNAs was altered in the
plasma and PBMCs of patients with uremia, which suggests that the changed
circRNAs may be potential diagnostic biomarkers that play an important role in
the pathogenesis of uremic patients. We speculate that hsa_circ_0053958,
hsa_circ_0103281 may be associated with the pathogenesis of uremia and may
be potential biological molecular markers for the diagnosis and prognosis of
uremia.
Extension of Bounded Linear Operators
Authors: Bajryacharya Prakash Muni , Phulara Keshab Raj
Published: November 2016

In this article the problem entitled when does every member of a class of operators T : E → Y admit an extension operator T : X → Y in different approaches like injective spaces, separable injective spaces, the class of compact operators and extension  Into C(K ) spaces has-been studied.

Journal of Advanced College of Engineering and Management, Vol. 2, 2016, page: 11-13
On Certain Linear Structures of Bounded Vector - Valued Sequence Space on Product Normed Space
Authors: Pahari Narayan` Prasad
Published: November 2016

Available with full text.

Journal of Advanced College of Engineering and Management, Vol. 2, 2016, Page: 31-39 
Dorothy Chansky, Kitchen Sink Realisms: Domestic Labor, Dining, and Drama in American Theatre
Authors: Black Cheryl
Published: November 2016

Kitchen Sink Realisms examines both iconic and now-obscure works of American drama focused on domesticity and domestic labour. Chansky’s research is both extensive and sharply focused, and the study is remarkable for its breadth and its depth, its originality, and the persuasiveness of its arguments.
Towards a richer model of deliberation dialogue: Closure problem and change of circumstances
Authors: Walton Douglas , Toniolo Alice , Norman Timothy J.
Published: November 2016

Models of deliberative dialogue are fundamental for developing autonomous systems that support human practical reasoning. The question discussed in this paper is whether existing models are able to capture the complexity and richness of natural deliberation. In real-world contexts, circumstances relevant to the decision can change rapidly. We reflect on today’s leading model of deliberation dialogue and we propose an extension to capture how newly exchanged information about changing circumstances may shape the dialogue. Moreover, in natural deliberation, a dialogue may be successful even if a decision on what to do has not been made. A set of criteria is proposed to address the problem of when to close off the practical reasoning phase of dialogue. We discuss some measures for evaluating the success of a dialogue after closure and we present some initial efforts to introduce the new deliberation features within an existing model of agent dialogue. We believe that our extended model of dialogue may contribute to representing that richness of natural deliberative dialogue that is yet to be addressed in existing models of agent deliberation.
Assessing communication strategies in argumentation-based negotiation agents equipped with belief revision
Authors: Casali Ana , Pilotti Pablo , Chesñevar Carlos
Published: November 2016

The importance of negotiation has increased in the last years as a relevant interaction to solve conflicts in multi-agent systems. Although there are many different scenarios, a typical negotiating situation involves two cooperative agents that cannot reach their goals by themselves because they do not have some resources needed to reach such goals. Therefore, a way to improve their mutual benefit is to start a negotiation dialogue, taking into account that they might have incomplete or incorrect beliefs about the other agent’s goals and resources. The exchange of arguments during the negotiation gives them information that makes it possible to update their beliefs and consequently they can offer proposals which are closer for reaching a deal. In order to formalize their proposals in a negotiation setting, the agents must be able to generate, select and evaluate arguments associated with such offers, updating their mental state accordingly. We situate our work on this kind of scenarios with two argumentation-based negotiation agents equipped with belief revision operations in the generation and interpretation of arguments. It has been proved that those agents that take advantage of belief revision during the negotiation achieve an overall better performance. Because the belief revision process depends on the information the agents exchange in their utterances, in this paper we focus on different communication strategies the agents may implement and the impact that they have in the negotiation process. For this purpose, we present a negotiation protocol where the messages are extended to include a critique to the last proposal received and a counterproposal. Also, we define proposals that may be more or less informative containing different justifications. An intentional agent architecture is proposed and following this model different kind of negotiating agents are created using diverse communication strategies. To assess the impact these strategies have in the negotiation process some simulations are conducted, analyzing the results obtained.
The influence of strength exercises of the lower limbs on postural stability: A possible role of the autonomic nervous system
Authors: Mikoƚajec Kazimierz , Maszczyk Adam , Chalimoniuk Maƚgorzata , Langfort Józef , Goƚaś Artur , Zajc Adam
Published: November 2016

AIM OF STUDY:

The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of different types of strength exercises on the posturographic parameters as a postural stability indicators and selected plasma catecholamine levels as a marker of sympathetic nerve activity in basketball players.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

The sample included 13 male, well-trained basketball players, aged 22.3 ± 2.9 y, with a training experience of 8.6 ± 2.3 years. Participants performed three consecutive exercises in successive weekly microcycles. The athletes performed isometric, concentric and eccentric exercises, with random restriction. Postural stability of all subjects was evaluated using a force plate before and after each exercise.

RESULTS:

The results revealed a significantly higher effect on the range of sway (RoS) with eyes closed in medial/lateral direction after concentric exercise and RoS with eyes closed in both directions after eccentric and isometric exercises. A significantly higher effect on the standard deviation of sway was observed in the anterior-posterior axis with eyes closed (p= 0.041) and velocity of COP displacement with open eyes(VCOP_OE) (p= 0.007) after the isometric exercises. A modulating effect of the applied exercise types on plasma NA and A levels was not observed, and the results demonstrated that serum 5HT was elevated in response to concentric exercise while diminished in response to both isometric and eccentric exercises.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study demonstrates that all types of applied exercises impair posture control during single leg stance on a force plate in basketball players but isometric exercise of proximal musculature to a greater extent negatively affects posture control in comparison with distal musculature. Moreover, among the investigated monoamines in well trained athletes, 5HT predominantly took part in modulation of locomotor activity.
Efficacy and Safety of Plasma Exchange with 5% Albumin to Modify Cerebrospinal Fluid and Plasma Amyloid-β Concentrations and Cognition Outcomes in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Boada Mercè , Anaya Fernando , Ortiz Pilar , Olazarán Javier , Shua-Haim Joshua R. , Obisesan Thomas O. , Hernández Isabel , Muñoz Joan , Buendia Mar , Alegret Montserrat , Lafuente Asunción , Tárraga Lluís , Núñez Laura , Torres Mireia , Grifols Joan Ramon , Ferrer Isidre , Lopez Oscar L. , Páez Antonio
Published: November 2016

Background: Studies conducted in animal models and humans suggest the presence of a dynamic equilibrium of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma compartments.

Objective: To determine whether plasma exchange (PE) with albumin replacement was able to modify Aβ concentrations in CSF and plasma as well as to improve cognition in patients with mild-moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods: In a multicenter, randomized, patient- and rater-blind, controlled, parallel-group, phase II study, 42 AD patients were assigned (1 : 1) to PE treatment or control (sham) groups. Treated patients received a maximum of 18 PE with 5% albumin (Albutein®, Grifols) with three different schedules: two PE/weekly (three weeks), one PE/weekly (six weeks), and one PE/bi- weekly (12 weeks), plus a six-month follow-up period. Plasma and CSF Aβ1–40 and Aβ1–42 levels, as well as cognitive, functional, and behavioral measures were determined.

Results: CSF Aβ1–42 levels after the last PE compared to baseline were marginally higher in PE-treated group versus controls (adjusted means of variation: 75.3 versus –45.5 pg/mL; 95% CI: –19.8, 170.5 versus 135.1, 44.2; p = 0.072). Plasma Aβ1–42 levels were lower in the PE-treated group after each treatment period ( p < 0.05). Plasma Aβ1–40 levels showed a saw-tooth pattern variation associated with PE. PE-treated patients scored better in the Boston Naming Test and Semantic Verbal Fluency ( p < 0.05) throughout the study. Neuropsychiatric Inventory scores were higher in controls during the PE phase ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion: PE with human albumin modified CSF and plasma Aβ1–42 levels. Patients treated with PE showed improvement in memory and language functions, which persisted after PE was discontinued.
A 24-Week Multi-Modality Exercise Program Improves Executive Control in Older Adults with a Self-Reported Cognitive Complaint: Evidence from the Antisaccade Task
Authors: Heath Matthew , Shellington Erin , Titheridge Sam , Gill Dawn P. , Petrella Robert J.
Published: November 2016

Exercise programs involving aerobic and resistance training (i.e., multiple-modality) have shown promise in improving cognition and executive control in older adults at risk, or experiencing, cognitive decline. It is, however, unclear whether cognitive training within a multiple-modality program elicits an additive benefit to executive/cognitive processes. This is an important question to resolve in order to identify optimal training programs that delay, or ameliorate, executive deficits in persons at risk for further cognitive decline. In the present study, individuals with a self-reported cognitive complaint (SCC) participated in a 24-week multiple-modality (i.e., the M2 group) exercise intervention program. In addition, a separate group of individuals with a SCC completed the same aerobic and resistance training as the M2 group but also completed a cognitive-based stepping task (i.e., multiple-modality, mind-motor intervention: M4 group). Notably, pre- and post-intervention executive control was examined via the antisaccade task (i.e., eye movement mirror-symmetrical to a target). Antisaccades are an ideal tool for the study of individuals with subtle executive deficits because of its hands- and language-free nature and because the task’s neural mechanisms are linked to neuropathology in cognitive decline (i.e., prefrontal cortex). Results showed that M2 and M4 group antisaccade reaction times reliably decreased from pre- to post-intervention and the magnitude of the decrease was consistent across groups. Thus, multi-modality exercise training improved executive performance in persons with a SCC independent of mind-motor training. Accordingly, we propose that multiple-modality training provides a sufficient intervention to improve executive control in persons with a SCC.
Cholinergic Modification of Neurogenesis and Gliosis Improves the Memory of AβPPswe/PSEN1dE9 Alzheimer’s Disease Model Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Matsuda Takeshi , Hisatsune Tatsuhiro
Published: November 2016

We previously reported that neuroinflammation contributes to the amnesia of AβPPswe/PSEN1dE9 Alzheimer’s disease model mice fed a high-fat diet to induce type-2 diabetes (T2DM-AD mice), but the underlying mechanism for the memory decline remained unclear. Recent studies have suggested that cholinergic modulation is involved in neuroinflammatory cellular reactions including neurogenesis and gliosis, and in memory improvement. In this study, we administered a broad-spectrum cholinesterase inhibitor, rivastigmine (2 mg/kg/day, s.c.), into T2DM-AD mice for 6 weeks, and evaluated their memory performance, neurogenesis, and neuroinflammatory reactions. By two hippocampal-dependent memory tests, the Morris water maze and contextual fear conditioning, rivastigmine improved the memory deterioration of the T2DM-AD mice ( n = 8, p < 0.01). The number of newborn neurons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus was 1138±324 (Ave±SEM) in wild-type littermates, 2573±442 in T2DM-AD-Vehicle, and 2165±300 in T2DM-AD-Rivastigmine mice, indicating that neurogenesis was accelerated in the two T2DM-AD groups ( n = 5, p < 0.05). The dendritic maturation of new neurons in T2DM-AD-Vehicle mice was severely abrogated, and rivastigmine treatment reversed this retarded maturation. In addition, the hippocampus of T2DM-AD-Vehicle mice showed increased proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α and gliosis, and rivastigmine treatment blocked these inflammatory reactions. Rivastigmine did not change the insulin abnormality or amyloid pathology in these mice. Thus, cholinergic modulation by rivastigmine treatment led to enhanced neurogenesis and the suppression of gliosis, which together ameliorated the memory decline in T2DM-AD model mice.
Increased Transforming Growth Factor β2 in the Neocortex of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies is Correlated with Disease Severity and Soluble Aβ42 Load
Authors: Chong Joyce R. , Chai Yuek Ling , Lee Jasinda H. , Howlett David , Attems Johannes , Ballard Clive G. , Aarsland Dag , Francis Paul T. , Chen Christopher P. , Lai Mitchell K.P.
Published: November 2016

Background: Of the three transforming growth factor (TGF)-β isoforms known, TGFβ1 deficits have been widely reported in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and studied as a potential therapeutic target. In contrast, the status of TGFβ2, which has been shown to mediate amyloid-β (Aβ)-mediated neuronal death, are unclear both in AD and in Lewy body dementias (LBD) with differential neuritic plaque and neurofibrillary tangle burden.

Objective: To measure neocortical TGFβ2 levels and their correlations with neuropathological and clinical markers of disease severity in a well-characterized cohort of AD as well as two clinical subtypes of LBD, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD), known to manifest relatively high and low Aβ plaque burden, respectively.

Methods: Postmortem samples from temporal cortex (BA21) were measured for TGFβ2 using a Luminex-based platform, and correlated with scores for neuritic plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, α-synuclein pathology, dementia severity (as measured by annual decline of Mini-Mental State Examination scores) as well as soluble and total fractions of brain Aβ42.

Results: TGFβ2 was significantly increased in AD and DLB, but not in PDD. TGFβ2 also correlated with scores for neurofibrillary tangles, Lewy bodies (within the LBD group), dementia severity, and soluble Aβ42 concentration, but not with neuritic plaque scores, total Aβ42, or monomeric α-synuclein immunoreactivity.

Conclusions: TGFβ2 is increased in the temporal cortex of AD and DLB, and its correlations with neuropathological and clinical markers of disease severity as well as with soluble Aβ42 load suggest a potential pathogenic role in mediating the neurotoxicity of non-fibrillar Aβ. Our study also indicates the potential utility of targeting TGFβ2 in pharmacotherapeutic approaches to AD and DLB.
The Effects of Meditation on Grey Matter Atrophy and Neurodegeneration: A Systematic Review
Authors: Last Nicole , Tufts Emily , Auger Leslie E.
Published: November 2016

The present systematic review is based on the premise that a variety of neurodegenerative diseases are accompanied by grey matter atrophy in the brain and meditation may impact this. Given that age is a major risk factor for many of these progressive and neurodegenerative diseases and that the percentage of the population over the age of 65 is quickly increasing, there is an obvious need for prompt treatment and prevention advances in research. As there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases, many are seeking non-pharmacological treatment options in attempts to offset the disease-related cognitive and functional declines. On the basis of a growing body of research suggesting that meditation is effective in increasing grey matter volume in healthy participants, this paper systematically reviewed the literature regarding the effects of meditation on restoring grey matter volume in healthy individuals and those affected by neurodegeneration. This review searched PubMed, CINAHL, and APA PsycNET to identify original studies that included MRI imaging to measure grey matter volume in meditators and post-mindfulness-based intervention participants compared to controls. Thirteen studies were considered eligible for review and involved a wide variety of meditation techniques and included participants with and without cognitive impairment. All studies reported significant increases in grey matter volume in the meditators/intervention group, albeit in assorted regions of the brain. Limited research exists on the mechanisms through which meditation affects disease-related neurodegeneration, but preliminary evidence suggests that it may offset grey matter atrophy.
Short-Term Response is not Predictive of Long-Term Response to Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors in Old Age Subjects with Alzheimer’s Disease: A “Real World” Study
Authors: Boccardi Virginia , Baroni Marta , Smirne Nicoletta , Clodomiro Alessandra , Ercolani Sara , Longo Annalisa , Ruggiero Carmelinda , Bruni Amalia C. , Mecocci Patrizia
Published: November 2016

Background: Most of clinical guidelines recommend discontinuing treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) who do not show an initial response to therapy as evaluated with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scale. However, understanding the relationship between the initial response to ChEI treatment and the subsequent course of the disease is extremely important in clinical practice, but evidence is limited, particularly in the old-old population.

Objective: We aimed at investigating the relationship between short-term and long-term response to ChEI therapy in old age subjects with AD in a “real life” setting.

Methods: This is a retrospective longitudinal study of 628 old age subjects (≥65 years old) with AD and treated with ChEIs over three year follow-up. The sample was divided into “young-old” (≤75 years) and “old-old” (≥76 years) according to age, and as “responder” and “non-responder” according to the initial (i.e., after three months) response to treatment. Cognitive and functional evaluation was performed by means of MMSE and ADL/IADL, respectively.

Results: In the long run, subjects considered as non-responders showed a lower rate of cognitive decline as compared with responders, with a mean annual decline at MMSE of 1.0 point versus 1.6 points ( p < 0.0001), respectively. Old-old non-responders had a slower rate of cognitive ( p < 0.0001) and functional decline ( p < 0.0001) as compared with responders after three years of observation.

Conclusion: Discontinuing ChEI treatment solely for the absence of an initial response is not appropriate, especially in old-old subjects.
Sleepiness and Sleep-related Breathing Disorders in Myotonic Dystrophy and Responses to Treatment: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: West Sophie D. , Lochmüller Hanns , Hughes Joan , Atalaia Antonio , Marini-Bettolo Chiara , Baudouin Simon V. , Anderson Kirstie N.
Published: November 2016

Objective: We conducted prospective assessments in people with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) with daytime sleepiness, provided targeted therapies and assessed response.

Methods: Patients had overnight sleep assessments. Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for OSA, non-invasive ventilation (NIV) for respiratory failure, modafinil for excessive daytime sleepiness were commenced.

Results: 120 people were studied: mean age 46.9 years (SD 13.2, range 18–74), body mass index 27.9 kg/m2 (7.2, 16–53), Epworth Sleepiness Score (ESS) 13.1 (4.7, 2–24). Twenty one people (18% of group) had OSA: mean age 49.6, BMI 31.1, ESS 14.3, ODI 22, pO2 11.3, pCO2 5.4. All were offered CPAP; seven continued with benefit but 14 had intolerance or no benefit. Thirty-three people (27%) had respiratory failure and abnormal sleep study: mean age 51.5, BMI 31.3, ESS 13.9, ODI 22.9, pO2 8.7, pCO2 6.8. All were offered NIV; 12 continued with benefit but 18 had intolerance or no benefit, 1 died and 2 declined commencement. Thirty-six people (30%) had predominantly sleepiness: mean age 44.8, BMI 24.6, ESS 14.1, ODI 9.2, pO2 11.7, pCO2 5.4. All were offered modafinil; 12 continued this with benefit but 10 had intolerance or no benefit, one was unkeen to start, 11 did not attend further clinic and two had other sleep disorders. Comparing means of treatment responders to non-responders showed no significant difference in any variable, except ESS: 15.9 vs.11.9 respectively, p < 0.0001.

Conclusions: Causes of sleepiness are variable in DM1, but include obstructive sleep apnoea, respiratory failure and sleepiness with a normal sleep study; 29% of this studied cohort benefited from targeted sleep therapies.
Unexpected properties of interaction of high-energy protons*
Authors: Dremin I M
Published: November 2016

Experimental data on proton–proton interactions in high-energy collisions show that the elastic-to-inelastic scattering ratio varies in an unexpected way with the collision energy: the decrease at comparatively low energies is followed by an increase by a factor of over 1.5 (!) in the energy range from 11–60 GeV at the Intersecting Storage Rings (ISR) to 7–13 TeV at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Intuitive expectations are that, classically, proton break-up processes continue increasing in number compared to proton survivals. It can be assumed that this surprising effect is due to either the asymptotic freedom property or the collision time being extremely short at such high energies. The unquestionable unitarity principle is combined with the available elastic scattering data to gain new insight into the spatial shape of the interaction region of colliding protons. We discuss how this region evolves at energies currently used and make some predictions on its behavior at still higher energies under different assumptions concerning the relative roles of elastic scattering and inelastic processes. The shape can transform rather drastically if elastic processes keep increasing in proportion. There is an unexpected corollary to this unexpected property. The possible origins of the effect and its relation to strong interaction dynamics are discussed.
Blueberry Consumption Affects Serum Uric Acid Concentrations in Older Adults in a Sex-Specific Manner
Authors: Cheatham Carol , Vazquez-Vidal Itzel , Medlin Amanda , Voruganti V.
Published: November 2016

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and may protect against disease. Uric acid accounts for about 50% of the antioxidant properties in humans. Elevated levels of serum uric acid (SUA) or hyperuricemia is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim was to determine the effect of blueberries on SUA in older adults. Participants (n = 133, 65–80 years) experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were randomized in a double-blind 6-month clinical trial to either blueberry or placebo. A reference group with no MCI received no treatment. The mean (SD) SUA at baseline were 5.45 (0.9), 6.4 (1.3) and 5.8 (1.4) mg/dL in reference, placebo, and treatment groups, respectively. Baseline SUA was different in men and women (6.25 (1.1) vs. 5.35 (1.1), p = 0.001). During the first three months, SUA decreased in the blueberry group and was significantly different from the placebo group in both men and women (p < 0.0003). Sex-specific differences became apparent after 3 months, when only men showed an increase in SUA in the blueberry group and not in the placebo (p = 0.0006) between 3 and 6 months. At 6 months SUA had rebounded in both men and women and returned to baseline levels. Baseline SUA was correlated with CVD risk factors, waist circumference and triglycerides (p < 0.05), but differed by sex. Overall, 6 m SUA changes were negatively associated with triglycerides in men, but not in women. Group-wise association between 6 m SUA changes and CVD risk factors showed associations with diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in women of the Blueberry group but not in men or any sex in the placebo group. In summary, blueberries may affect SUA and its relationship with CVD risk in a sex-specific manner.
Blueberries’ Impact on Insulin Resistance and Glucose Intolerance
Authors: Stull April
Published: November 2016

Blueberries are a rich source of polyphenols, which include anthocyanin bioactive compounds. Epidemiological evidence indicates that incorporating blueberries into the diet may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2DM). These findings are supported by pre-clinical and clinical studies that have shown improvements in insulin resistance (i.e., increased insulin sensitivity) after obese and insulin-resistant rodents or humans consumed blueberries. Insulin resistance was assessed by homeostatic model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), insulin tolerance tests, and hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps. Additionally, the improvements in glucose tolerance after blueberry consumption were assessed by glucose tolerance tests. However, firm conclusions regarding the anti-diabetic effect of blueberries cannot be drawn due to the small number of existing clinical studies. Although the current evidence is promising, more long-term, randomized, and placebo-controlled trials are needed to establish the role of blueberries in preventing or delaying T2DM.
Detection of Proteins Using Nano Magnetic Particle Accumulation-Based Signal Amplification
Authors: İçöz Kutay , Mzava Omary
Published: November 2016

We report a biosensing method based on magnetic particles where coated magnetic particles are used for immunomagnetic separation, and uncoated magnetic particles are used for signal enhancement. To quantify the signal amplification, optical micrographs are analyzed to measure changes in pixel area and pixel intensity. Microcontact-printed surface receptors are arranged in alternating lines on gold chips, enabling differential calculations. In a model experiment, target molecules-streptavidin-are first captured and separated by biotin-coated magnetic particles, and then exposed to a gold surface functionalized with biotin-coupled bovine serum albumin, forming a sandwich assay. Applying a magnetic field and introducing uncoated magnetic particles resulted in accumulation around magnetic particles in the sandwich assay and enhancement of the contrast to noise ratio at least by eight-fold in a range of 0.1–100 μM.
Bramlett-Parker, J.; Washburn, D.A. Can Rhesus Monkey Learn Executive Attention? Behav. Sci. 2016, 6, 11
Authors: Bramlett-Parker Jessica , Washburn David
Published: November 2016

n/a
Ligand Activation of TAM Family Receptors-Implications for Tumor Biology and Therapeutic Response
Authors: Davra Viralkumar , Kimani Stanley , Calianese David , Birge Raymond
Published: November 2016

The TAM family of receptors (i.e., Tyro3, Axl, and Mertk), and their ligands Growth arrest specific factor 6 (Gas6) and Protein S (Pros1) contribute to several oncogenic processes, such as cell survival, invasion, migration, chemo-resistance, and metastasis, whereby expression often correlates with poor clinical outcomes. In recent years, there has been great interest in the study of TAM receptors in cancer, stemming both from their roles as oncogenic signaling receptors, as well as their roles in tumor immunology. As a result, several classes of TAM inhibitors that include small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, decoy receptors, as well as novel strategies to target TAM ligands are being developed. This paper will review the biology of TAM receptors and their ligands with a focus on cancer, as well as evidence-based data for the continued pursuit of TAM/Gas6 inhibitors in clinical practice.
Micro/Mesoporous Zeolitic Composites: Recent Developments in Synthesis and Catalytic Applications
Authors: Vu Xuan , Armbruster Udo , Martin Andreas
Published: November 2016

Micro/mesoporous zeolitic composites (MZCs) represent an important class of hierarchical zeolitic materials that have attracted increasing attention in recent years. By introducing an additional mesoporous phase interconnected with the microporosity of zeolites, a hierarchical porous system of MZCs is formed which facilitates molecular transport while preserving the intrinsic catalytic properties of zeolites. Thus, these materials offer novel perspectives for catalytic applications. Over the years, numerous synthesis strategies toward the formation of MZCs have been realized and their catalytic applications have been reported. In this review, the three main synthesis routes, namely direct synthesis using zeolite precursors, recrystallization of zeolites, and zeolitization of preformed mesoporous materials are thoroughly discussed, with focus on prior works and the most recent developments along with prominent examples given from the literature. In addition, the significant improvement in the catalytic properties of MZCs in a wide range of industrially relevant reactions is presented through several representative cases. Some perspectives for the future development of MZCs are also given.
Healthcare Teams Neurodynamically Reorganize When Resolving Uncertainty
Authors: Stevens Ronald , Galloway Trysha , Halpin Donald , Willemsen-Dunlap Ann
Published: November 2016

Research on the microscale neural dynamics of social interactions has yet to be translated into improvements in the assembly, training and evaluation of teams. This is partially due to the scale of neural involvements in team activities, spanning the millisecond oscillations in individual brains to the minutes/hours performance behaviors of the team. We have used intermediate neurodynamic representations to show that healthcare teams enter persistent (50–100 s) neurodynamic states when they encounter and resolve uncertainty while managing simulated patients. Each of the second symbols was developed situating the electroencephalogram (EEG) power of each team member in the contexts of those of other team members and the task. These representations were acquired from EEG headsets with 19 recording electrodes for each of the 1–40 Hz frequencies. Estimates of the information in each symbol stream were calculated from a 60 s moving window of Shannon entropy that was updated each second, providing a quantitative neurodynamic history of the team’s performance. Neurodynamic organizations fluctuated with the task demands with increased organization (i.e., lower entropy) occurring when the team needed to resolve uncertainty. These results show that intermediate neurodynamic representations can provide a quantitative bridge between the micro and macro scales of teamwork.
Hydraulic Hybrid Excavator—Mathematical Model Validation and Energy Analysis
Authors: Casoli Paolo , Riccò Luca , Campanini Federico , Bedotti Andrea
Published: November 2016

Recent demands to reduce pollutant emissions and improve energy efficiency have driven the implementation of hybrid solutions in mobile machinery. This paper presents the results of a numerical and experimental analysis conducted on a hydraulic hybrid excavator (HHE). The machinery under study is a middle size excavator, whose standard version was modified with the introduction of an energy recovery system (ERS). The proposed ERS layout was designed to recover the potential energy of the boom, using a hydraulic accumulator as a storage device. The recovered energy is utilized through the pilot pump of the machinery which operates as a motor, thus reducing the torque required from the internal combustion engine (ICE). The analysis reported in this paper validates the HHE model by comparing numerical and experimental data in terms of hydraulic and mechanical variables and fuel consumption. The mathematical model shows its capability to reproduce the realistic operating conditions of the realized prototype, tested on the field. A detailed energy analysis comparison between the standard and the hybrid excavator models was carried out to evaluate the energy flows along the system, showing advantages, weaknesses and possibilities to further improve the machinery efficiency. Finally, the fuel consumption estimated by the model and that measured during the experiments are presented to highlight the fuel saving percentages. The HHE model is an important starting point for the development of other energy saving solutions.
Soiling and Cleaning of Polymer Film Solar Reflectors
Authors: Sansom Christopher , Fernández-García Aránzazu , Sutter Florian , Almond Heather , King Peter , Martínez-Arcos Lucía
Published: November 2016

This paper describes the accelerated ageing of commercially available silvered polymer film by contact cleaning using brushes and water in the presence of soiling created by dust and sand particles. These conditions represent cleaning regimes in real concentrating solar power (CSP) solar fields in arid environments, where contact cleaning using brushes and water is often required to clean the reflecting surfaces. Whilst suitable for glass reflectors, this paper discusses the effects of these established cleaning processes on the optical and visual characteristics of polymer film surfaces, and then describes the development of a more benign but effective contact cleaning process for cleaning polymer reflectors. The effects of a range of cleaning brushes are discussed, with and without the presence of water, in the presence of sand and dust particles from selected representative locations. The experiments were repeated using different experimental equipment at Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA) in Spain and Cranfield University in the UK. The results highlight differences that are attributable to the experimental methods used. Reflectance measurements and visual inspection show that a soft cleaning brush with a small amount of water, used in a cleaning head with both linear and rotational motion, can clean polymer film reflecting surfaces without inflicting surface damage or reducing specular reflectance.
Drought Stress Distribution Responses of Continental Beech Forests at their Xeric Edge in Central Europe
Authors: Salamon-Albert Éva , Lőrincz Péter , Pauler Gábor , Bartha Dénes , Horváth Ferenc
Published: November 2016

In order to develop adequate adaptation measures for environmental vulnerability, we need detailed knowledge on the climatic performance of forest ecosystems. In this study, we aim to explore climate function variability of lowland beech forest distribution at a landscape scale. We also construct the response profiles of these forests near their xeric limit under wet continental climatic conditions. We studied distribution responses using presence-absence forest records and 18 bioclimatic variables. We performed exploratory factor analysis and frequency estimation to evaluate climate function distribution responses. We found that temperature adjusted precipitation measures during summer were the most important, followed by winter rainfall indices. The relative Drought Response Range (rDRR) in the response profile presented the climate limitation function of the distribution. According to our results, higher level of climate function variability is associated with lower level of rDRR, presenting an ecological trade-off. Our results suggest that distribution functions of the rDRR, especially the Ombrothermic index, can be used as landscape indicators of drought stress. Consequently, rDRR could be a useful measure to assess regional climatic vulnerability of forest occurrence and distribution patterns.
Indoor Multi-Dimensional Location GML and Its Application for Ubiquitous Indoor Location Services
Authors: Zhu Qing , Li Yun , Xiong Qing , Zlatanova Sisi , Ding Yulin , Zhang Yeting , Zhou Yan
Published: November 2016

The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) Geography Markup Language (GML) standard provides basic types and a framework for defining geo-informational data models such as CityGML and IndoorGML, which provide standard information models for 3D city modelling and lightweight indoor network navigation. Location information, which is the semantic engine that fuses big geo-information data, is however, discarded in these standards. The Chinese national standard of Indoor Multi-Dimensional Location GML (IndoorLocationGML) presented in this study can be used in ubiquitous indoor location intelligent applications for people and robots. IndoorLocationGML is intended as an indoor multi-dimensional location information model and exchange data format standard, mainly for indoor positioning and navigation. This paper introduces the standard’s main features: (1) terminology; (2) indoor location information model using a Unified Modeling Language (UML) class diagram; (3) indoor location information markup language based on GML; and (4) use cases. A typical application of the standard is then discussed. This standard is applicable to the expression, storage, and distribution of indoor multi-dimensional location information, and to the seamless integration of indoor–outdoor location information. The reference and basis are therefore relevant to publishers, managers, users, and developers of indoor navigation and location-based services (LBS).
Prognostic Relevance of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Polymorphisms for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lin Victor , Lu Te-Ling , Yin Hsin-Ling , Yang Sheau-Fang , Lee Yung-Chin , Liu Chia-Chu , Huang Chao-Yuan , Yu Chia-Cheng , Chang Ta-Yuan , Huang Shu-Pin , Bao Bo-Ying
Published: November 2016

Folate metabolism has been associated with cancers via alterations in nucleotide synthesis, DNA methylation, and DNA repair. We hypothesized that genetic variants in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), a key enzyme of folate metabolism, would affect the prognosis of prostate cancer. Three haplotype-tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across the MTHFR gene region were genotyped in a cohort of 458 patients with clinically localized prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy. One SNP, rs9651118, was associated with disease recurrence, and the association persisted after multivariate analyses adjusting for known risk factors. Public dataset analyses suggested that rs9651118 affects MTHFR expression. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that MTHFR expression is significantly upregulated in prostate tumor tissues when compared with adjacent normal tissues. Furthermore, overexpression of MTHFR correlates with cancer recurrence and death in two independent publicly available prostate cancer datasets. In conclusion, our data provide rationale to further validate the clinical utility of MTHFR rs9651118 as a biomarker for prognosis in prostate cancer.
Biological Control beneath the Feet: A Review of Crop Protection against Insect Root Herbivores
Authors: Kergunteuil Alan , Bakhtiari Moe , Formenti Ludovico , Xiao Zhenggao , Defossez Emmanuel , Rasmann Sergio
Published: November 2016

Sustainable agriculture is certainly one of the most important challenges at present, considering both human population demography and evidence showing that crop productivity based on chemical control is plateauing. While the environmental and health threats of conventional agriculture are increasing, ecological research is offering promising solutions for crop protection against herbivore pests. While most research has focused on aboveground systems, several major crop pests are uniquely feeding on roots. We here aim at documenting the current and potential use of several biological control agents, including micro-organisms (viruses, bacteria, fungi, and nematodes) and invertebrates included among the macrofauna of soils (arthropods and annelids) that are used against root herbivores. In addition, we discuss the synergistic action of different bio-control agents when co-inoculated in soil and how the induction and priming of plant chemical defense could be synergized with the use of the bio-control agents described above to optimize root pest control. Finally, we highlight the gaps in the research for optimizing a more sustainable management of root pests.
Origin of Activity and Stability Enhancement for Ag3PO4 Photocatalyst after Calcination
Authors: Dong Pengyu , Hou Guihua , Liu Chao , Zhang Xinjiang , Tian Hao , Xu Fenghua , Xi Xinguo , Shao Rong
Published: November 2016

Pristine Ag3PO4 microspheres were synthesized by a co-precipitation method, followed by being calcined at different temperatures to obtain a series of calcined Ag3PO4 photocatalysts. This work aims to investigate the origin of activity and stability enhancement for Ag3PO4 photocatalyst after calcination based on the systematical analyses of the structures, morphologies, chemical states of elements, oxygen defects, optical absorption properties, separation and transfer of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, and active species. The results indicate that oxygen vacancies (VO˙˙) are created and metallic silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are formed by the reaction of partial Ag+ in Ag3PO4 semiconductor with the thermally excited electrons from Ag3PO4 and then deposited on the surface of Ag3PO4 microspheres during the calcination process. Among the calcined Ag3PO4 samples, the Ag3PO4-200 sample exhibits the best photocatalytic activity and greatly enhanced photocatalytic stability for photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) solution under visible light irradiation. Oxygen vacancies play a significantly positive role in the enhancement of photocatalytic activity, while metallic Ag has a very important effect on improving the photocatalytic stability. Overall, the present work provides some powerful evidences and a deep understanding on the origin of activity and stability enhancement for the Ag3PO4 photocatalyst after calcination.
Paleozoic–Mesozoic Porphyry Cu(Mo) and Mo(Cu) Deposits within the Southern Margin of the Siberian Craton: Geochemistry, Geochronology, and Petrogenesis (a Review)
Authors: Berzina Anita , Berzina Adel , Gimon Victor
Published: November 2016

The southern margin of the Siberian craton hosts numerous Cu(Mo) and Mo(Cu) porphyry deposits. This review provides the first comprehensive set of geological characteristics, geochronological data, petrochemistry, and Sr–Nd isotopic data of representative porphyry Cu(Mo) and Mo(Cu) deposits within the southern margin of the Siberian craton and discusses the igneous processes that controlled the evolution of these magmatic systems related to mineralization. Geochronological data show that these porphyry deposits have an eastward-younging trend evolving from the Early Paleozoic to Middle Mesozoic. The western part of the area (Altay-Sayan segment) hosts porphyry Cu and Mo–Cu deposits that generally formed in the Early Paleozoic time, whereas porphyry Cu–Mo deposits in the central part (Northern Mongolia) formed in the Late Paleozoic–Early Mesozoic. The geodynamic setting of the region during these mineralizing events is consistent with Early Paleozoic subduction of Paleo-Asian Ocean plate with the continuous accretion of oceanic components to the Siberian continent and Late Paleozoic–Early Mesozoic subduction of the west gulf of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean under the Siberian continent. The eastern part of the study area (Eastern Transbaikalia) hosts molybdenum-dominated Mo and Mo–Cu porphyry deposits that formed in the Jurassic. The regional geodynamic setting during this mineralizing process is related to the collision of the Siberian and North China–Mongolia continents during the closure of the central part of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean in the Jurassic. Available isotopic data show that the magmas related to porphyritic Cu–Mo and Mo–Cu mineralization during the Early Paleozoic and Late Paleozoic–Early Mesozoic were mainly derived from mantle materials. The generation of fertile melts, related to porphyritic Mo and Mo–Cu mineralization during the Jurassic involved variable amounts of metasomatized mantle source component, the ancient Precambrian crust, and the juvenile crust, contributed by mantle-derived magmatic underplating.