bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A coupled approach of optimization, uncertainty analysis and configurational mechanics for a fail‐safe design of structures
Authors: Serafinska A. , Özenç K. , Kaliske M.
Published: April 2016

In this contribution, a novel method for a fail‐safe optimal design of structures is proposed, which is a coupled approach of optimization employing a genetic algorithm, the structural analysis conducted in the framework of fracture mechanics and uncertainty analysis. The idea of fail‐safe structures is to keep their functionality and integrity even under damage conditions, for example, a local failure of substructures. In the present work, a design concept of a substructure exhibiting a damage accumulating function due to the application of crack arresters is introduced. If such a substructure is integrated within a system of coupled substructures, it will accumulate the damage arising from the boundary conditions change induced by the failure of certain neighbouring structural elements and hinder further damage escalation. The investigation of failure of the damage accumulating substructure is introduced within a finite element framework by a combination of discrete fracturing and configurational mechanics based criteria. In order to design a structure, which will fail safely according to a predefined scenario, uncertainties are taken into account. The developed approach optimizes the configuration of crack arresters within the damage accumulating substructure so that the uncertain crack propagation is hindered and only a local failure of this element occurs. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photovoltaics literature survey (no. 127)
Authors: Hameiri Ziv
Published: April 2016

In order to help readers stay up to date in the field, each issue of Progress in Photovoltaics will contain a list of recently published journal articles that are most relevant to its aims and scope. This list is drawn from an extremely wide range of journals, including IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics, Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, Renewable Energy, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Journal of Applied Physics, and Applied Physics Letters. To assist readers, the list is separated into broad categories, but please note that these classifications are by no means strict. Also note that inclusion in the list is not an endorsement of a paper's quality. If you have any suggestions, please email Ziv Hameiri at ziv.hameiri@unsw.edu.au.
Association between menarche and increased bronchial hyper‐responsiveness during puberty in female children and adolescents
Authors: Kim Young‐Ho , Lee Eun , Cho Hyun‐Ju , Yang Song‐I , Jung Young‐Ho , Kim Hyung Young , Seo Ju‐Hee , Kim Hyo‐Bin , Lee So‐Yeon , Song Dae‐Jin , Kim Woo‐Kyung , Jang Gwang‐Cheon , Shim Jung‐Yeon , Kim Eun‐Jin , Lee Joo‐Shil , Kwon Ji‐Won , Hong Soo‐Jong
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Bronchial hyper‐responsiveness (BHR) is a key feature of asthma. The degree of BHR in children may be altered by several factors. We evaluated the prevalence of BHR according to age and gender in pediatric and adolescent population and analyzed the associated factors for gender differences.

Methods

Among the 2,067 subjects, methacholine challenge tests were performed in 1,820 children from one elementary and one middle school in Seoul, Korea. A total of 1,725 subjects between 6 and 14 years old were included in the analysis. The prevalence of BHR, defined as a provocative concentration that induced a 20% reduction of FEV1 (PC20) that was less than 8 mg/ml, was evaluated according to age and gender. Gender differences associated with BHR prevalence at each age were calculated and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with BHR by gender.

Results

The prevalence of BHR (PC20 ≤ 8 mg/ml) for each gender decreased with age (P < 0.001). Although the prevalence of BHR linearly decreased in males with age, females showed an increase after 11 years of age. BHR in males was associated with a younger age (aOR, 0.797; 95%CI, 0.678–0.925), a higher blood eosinophil counts (%) (aOR, 1.160; 95%CI, 1.047–1.284), atopy (aOR, 2.091; 95%CI, 1.003–4.359), and a lower FEV1/FVC ratio (aOR, 0.947; 95%CI, 0.901–0.995), and FEF25–75% (aOR, 0.980; 95%CI, 0.961–0.999). In females, BHR was significantly associated with a younger age (aOR, 0.845; 95%CI, 0.747–0.957), lower FEV1 (%) (aOR, 0.961; 95%CI, 0.938–0.984), and menarche (aOR, 3.674; 95%CI, 1.226–11.012).

Conclusion

BHR declined with age in the Korean pediatric population. A younger age and reduced lung function were common factors related to BHR in both genders. Additionally, atopy was related to BHR in males, whereas sexual maturation was related to BHR in females. These findings have important clinical implications for evaluating of childhood BHR and asthma related to gender. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:1040–1047. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An original patient‐derived xenograft of prostate cancer with cyst formation
Authors: Yoshikawa Takeshi , Kobori Go , Goto Takayuki , Akamatsu Shusuke , Terada Naoki , Kobayashi Takashi , Tanaka Yoshinori , Jung Giman , Kamba Tomomi , Ogawa Osamu , Inoue Takahiro
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND

The high rate of failure of new agents in oncology clinical trials indicates a weak understanding of the complexity of human cancer. Recent understanding of the mechanisms underlying castration resistance in prostate cancer led to the development of new agents targeting the androgen receptor pathway; however, their effectiveness is limited. Hence, there is a need for experimental systems that are able to better reproduce the biological diversity of prostate cancer in preclinical settings. In this study, we established a unique patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) model to identify biomarkers for treatment efficacy and resistance and better understand prostate cancer biology.

METHODS

A prostate cancer tissue sample from a Japanese patient was transplanted subcutaneously into male, severe combined immune‐deficient (SCID) mice and this PDX mouse model was named KUCaP3. Sequential tumor volume changes were observed before and after castration. Androgen receptor (AR), prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), and other molecular markers were examined immunohistochemically. Sequence analysis of AR was also performed to detect mutations. Proteomic analysis of cyst fluid and sera samples of KUCaP3 mice were analyzed by mass spectrometry (MS).

RESULTS

KUCaP3 cell line, derived from human tissue, was successfully and serially passaged in vivo with approximately 60% take rate. KUCaP3 exhibited cyst formation, showed androgen‐dependent growth initially, and developed castration‐resistant growth several months after castration of the mice. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that KUCaP3 was positive for AR, PSA, CK18, and α‐methyl acyl‐coenzyme A racemase, but negative for CK5/6 and ERG. The AR gene in KUCaP3 cells contained a substitution from CAT (histidine) to TAT (tyrosine) at the nucleotide positions corresponding to codon 875 (H875Y) in the ligand‐binding domain. Chemiluminescent immunoassay revealed higher levels of PSA in cystic fluid and the serum of KUCaP3‐bearing mice. MS analysis detected 23 proteins of human origin in cystic fluids of KUCaP3.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed KUCaP3, an androgen‐dependent PDX model with cyst formation. Several proteins including PSA were detected in the cystic fluid and sera of tumor‐bearing mice. This original PDX model has the potential to be used as a clinically relevant model to evaluate molecular markers for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Prostate 76:994–1003, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effect of Na on the electronic properties of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin films: A local‐probe study
Authors: Azulay D. , Abou‐Ras D. , Popov I. , Balberg I. , Millo O.
Published: April 2016

We investigated the effect of Na incorporation on the electronic properties of polycrystalline CuIn0.7Ga0.3Se2 thin films using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. The tunneling spectra indicate a reduced in‐gap density of states at grain boundaries and reveal a downward band‐bending in Na‐rich grain boundaries with respect to the adjacent grains, in agreement with our conductive atomic force microscopy data. It thus appears that Na passivates deep‐level defects at grain boundaries and induces a downward band‐bending there. Moreover, we provide evidence that Na passivates mainly Cu vacancy related defects. We suggest that the grain‐boundary passivation, which reduces the recombination rate of photogenerated carriers, is at least of major importance in the well known Na‐induced improvement in the efficiency of the corresponding solar cells. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Investigating the Impact of Ranked Set Sampling in Nonparametric CUSUM Control Charts
Authors: Abid Muhammad , Nazir Hafiz Zafar , Riaz Muhammad , Lin Zhengyan
Published: April 2016

Nonparametric control charts can be useful as an alternative in practice to the data expert when there is a lack of knowledge about the underlying distribution. In this study, a nonparametric cumulative sum (CUSUM) sign control chart for monitoring and detecting possible deviation from the process mean using ranked set sampling is proposed. Ranked set sampling is an effective method when the observations are inexpensive, and measurements are perhaps destructive. The average run length is used as performance measure for the proposed nonparametric CUSUM sign chart. Simulation study shows that the proposed version of the CUSUM sign chart using ranked set sampling generally outperforms than that version of the nonparametric CUSUM sign chart and the parametric CUSUM control chart using simple random sampling scheme. An illustrative example is also provided for practical consideration. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Next generation market research is here NOW!
Authors: Michael Michalis A.
Published: April 2016

Traditionally, market research has revolved around asking questions. Other less ubiquitous data collection methods, considered part of the MR toolkit in the traditional sense, include retail audits, audience measurement, and desk research. With the proliferation of social media, which started in the mid 2000s, social listening and analytics slowly entered the scene. The pace of social listening adoption by market research professionals has been frustrating.
Double Vision
Authors: Bowman Jo
Published: April 2016

Realising long‐term goals relies on a series of short‐term successes, General Mills head of corporate strategy Peter McDonald tells Jo Bowman.
Demographics & the long view
Authors: Hunter Jeffrey
Published: April 2016

The demographics debate
Taking the long view
Authors: McCaughan Dave
Published: April 2016

We live in a world of CMOs with a life expectancy of two years or less, and of brand managers who may last three years. Of advertising/PR/communication agency reviews happening annually. Of a belief that media is in a constant transition and therefore brands need to be constantly re‐evaluated. The discussion around fad terms like mobile, digital, big data, all emphasise the need for re‐evaluation. While much of this may be hype and angst suddenly it seems the “long view” is really not so long.
Selective Production of Benzene, Toluene and p‐Xylene (BTpX) from Various C1‐3 Feedstocks over ZSM‐5/Silicalite‐1 Core‐Shell Zeolite Catalyst
Authors: Miyake Koji , Hirota Yuichiro , Ono Kaito , Uchida Yoshiaki , Nishiyama Norikazu
Published: April 2016

Core‐shell zeolite composite crystals consisting of an MFI structure were prepared by a zeolite overgrowth method. The core and shell zeolites are ZSM‐5 with acid sites and silicalite‐1 (Al‐free MFI zeolite) without acid sites, respectively. The structured core‐shell ZSM‐5/silicalite‐1 catalyst was used for the reactions to produce benzene, toluene, and p‐xylene (BTpX) from five C1‐3 feedstocks. The selectivity to total BTpX on ZSM‐5/silicalite‐1 (47‐71 C‐mol%) was much higher than uncoated H‐ZSM‐5 (24‐42 C‐mol%) at the conversion of 89–99 % of the reactants (C1‐3 feedstocks). Furthermore, para‐selectivity (p‐xylene selectivity in xylene isomers) was very high 94–99 C‐mol% compared to the uncoated ZSM‐5 (23‐52 C‐mol%). Both the high BTpX and para selectivities are due to the inhibition of undesirable reactions on the external surface of ZSM‐5 crystals such as alkylation and isomerization. It has shown that this core‐shell structure was very suitable for the BTpX production catalyst.
Task Complexity in Individual Stock Control Tasks for Laboratory Experiments on Human Understanding of Dynamic Systems
Authors: Stouten Hendrik , Größler Andreas
Published: April 2016

Dynamic stock control tasks have been frequently used in laboratory experiments in behavioural research to investigate understanding of dynamic systems. In these studies, the dynamic system is often represented in the form of a simulation model, and they almost exclusively focus on how the structure of a system (i.e. the simulation model) affects human's inference of system behaviour. In doing so, these studies fail to consider that human's performance on dynamic decision making tasks might also be a function of the complexity embedded in other task components like goals, input, processes, output, time and presentation. Hence, the objective of this paper is to carve out what task complexity entails when applied to dynamic stock control tasks in order to determine its usefulness for future research on human understanding of such tasks. In this paper, task complexity is conceptualized consisting of ten complexity dimensions: (1) size; (2) variety; (3) redundancy; (4) ambiguity; (5) variability; (6) inaccuracy; (7) novelty; (8) incongruity; (9) connectivity; and (10) temporal demand. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hidden Gibbs random fields model selection using Block Likelihood Information Criterion
Authors: Stoehr Julien , Marin Jean‐Michel , Pudlo Pierre
Published: April 2016

Performing model selection between Gibbs random fields is a very challenging task. Indeed, because of the Markovian dependence structure, the normalizing constant of the fields cannot be computed using standard analytical or numerical methods. Furthermore, such unobserved fields cannot be integrated out, and the likelihood evaluation is a doubly intractable problem. This forms a central issue to pick the model that best fits an observed data. We introduce a new approximate version of the Bayesian Information Criterion. We partition the lattice into contiguous rectangular blocks, and we approximate the probability measure of the hidden Gibbs field by the product of some Gibbs distributions over the blocks. On that basis, we estimate the likelihood and derive the Block Likelihood Information Criterion (BLIC) that answers model choice questions such as the selection of the dependence structure or the number of latent states. We study the performances of BLIC for those questions. In addition, we present a comparison with ABC algorithms to point out that the novel criterion offers a better trade‐off between time efficiency and reliable results. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cover Image, Volume 7, Issue 3
Authors: McNeil Bonnie A. , Semper Cameron , Zimmerly Steven
Published: April 2016

The cover image, by Steven Zimmerly et al., is based on the Advanced Review Group II introns: versatile ribozymes and retroelements, DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1339.

image
Periodic inclusions with uniform internal hydrostatic stress in an infinite elastic plane
Authors: Dai Ming , Schiavone Peter , Gao Cun‐Fa
Published: April 2016

We develop a new method to construct periodic inclusions with uniform internal hydrostatic stress in an elastic plane subjected to uniform remote in‐plane loading. The method is based on two particular conformal mappings which lead to a system of nonlinear equations from which the inclusion shapes are determined. We illustrate our results with several examples. In particular, we show that the ratio of the inclusion size to the period of the inclusion‐matrix system changes with the inclusion aspect ratio and, in the specific case of uniform remote shear loading, the orientation of the inclusions is also altered. Finally, we show that if the period of the inclusion‐matrix system exceeds roughly six times the inclusion size, such periodic inclusions can be treated approximately as periodic elliptical inclusions with specific aspect ratio and orientation determined by the corresponding elastic constants and uniform remote loading.
Impact of Huntington Disease Gene‐Positive Status on Pre‐Symptomatic Young Adults and Recommendations for Genetic Counselors
Authors: Gong Ping , Fanos Joanna H. , Korty Lauren , Siskind Carly E. , Hanson‐Kahn Andrea K.
Published: April 2016

Huntington disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant, progressive neurodegenerative disorder for which there is no cure. Predictive testing for HD is available to asymptomatic at‐risk individuals. Approximately half of the population undergoing predictive testing for HD consists of young adults (≤35 years old). Finishing one's education, starting a career, engaging in romantic relationships and becoming a parent are key milestones of young adulthood. We conducted a qualitative study to explore how testing gene‐positive for HD influences young adults’ attainment of these milestones, and to identify major challenges that pre‐symptomatic young adults face to aid the development of targeted genetic counseling. Results of our study demonstrate that 1) knowing one's gene‐positive status results in an urgency to reach milestones and positively changes young adults’ approach to life; 2) testing positive influences young adults’ education and career choices, romantic relationships, and family planning; 3) young adults desire flexible and tailored genetic counseling to address needs and concerns unique to this population. Findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the impact of predictive testing for HD on young adults, and highlight issues unique to this population that call for further research, intervention and advocacy.
Laser diode stacks: pulsed light power for nuclear fusion
Authors: Wölz Martin , Pietrzak Agnieszka , Kindsvater Alex , Meusel Jens , Stolberg Klaus , Hülsewede Ralf , Sebastian Jürgen , Loyo-Maldonado Valentin
Published: April 2016

Laser drivers are an enabling factor to inertial confinement fusion, because laser diodes must be used instead of flash lamps. We discuss the limitations of laser diode arrays and show what steps the industry is taking. The pump power requirements of large-scale projects such as LIFE or HiPER are within reach of semiconductor laser diode assemblies. Pulsed light output powers per laser bars have been around 300 W per bar, as in the Jenoptik 940 nm bars previously used for pumping the Yb:YAG slabs in the DiPOLE project. By redesigning the semiconductor laser structures 500 W per bar is now commercially available for 808, 880 and 940 nm pump wavelengths. The construction of one inertial fusion power plant will require an amount of semiconductor laser chips in excess of the current annual production by two orders of magnitude. This adds to the engineering task of improving the device characteristics a challenge to production capacity. While the industry benefits from the recent boost in solid-state lighting that acts as a technology driver, cooperation between manufacturers will be imperative, and to this end we propose standardization efforts.
Asenapine reduces anxiety-related behaviours in rat conditioned fear stress model
Authors: Ohyama Masayo , Kondo Maho , Yamauchi Miki , Imanishi Taiichiro , Koyama Tsukasa
Published: April 2016

Objective

Asenapine is an atypical antipsychotic that is currently available for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. Although the atypical antipsychotics clozapine and olanzapine are effective for depression and anxiety in schizophrenia, as demonstrated by animal model studies, this has not been clarified for asenapine. Therefore, we compared the effects of asenapine in the conditioned fear stress model with those of clozapine and olanzapine.

Method

Rats were individually fear conditioned using electrical foot shock in a Skinner box. Approximately 24 h later, individual animals were returned to the same Skinner box (without electrical shock) and their freezing behaviour was observed for 5 min. Animals were treated with asenapine, clozapine, olanzapine, the 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist buspirone, or the 5-HT2C receptor antagonist SB242084 at 30 min before freezing behaviour assessment. The 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY100635 or the 5-HT2C receptor agonist Ro60-0175 was also used concomitantly with asenapine. The effects of asenapine, clozapine, and olanzapine on serotonin release in the rat hippocampus were also measured using in vivo microdialysis.

Results

Asenapine reduced freezing behaviour, while neither clozapine nor olanzapine reduced freezing behaviour. Buspirone and SB242084 also reduced freezing behaviour. The effect of asenapine in reducing freezing behaviour was not altered by the concomitant administration of WAY100635 or Ro60-0175. Both asenapine and clozapine, but not olanzapine, increased serotonin release in the rat hippocampus.

Conclusion

Asenapine may have superior therapeutic effect on anxiety symptoms than other agents, although the underlying mechanism of its anxiolytic activity remains unknown.
Fruit and vegetable intakes, sources and contribution to total diet in very young children (1–4 years): the Irish National Pre-School Nutrition Survey
Authors: O’Connor Laura , Walton Janette , Flynn Albert
Published: April 2016

Although the importance of fruit and vegetable (F&V) intakes in the prevention of chronic diseases is well established, there are limited data on intakes in very young children. This study estimates F&V intakes and sources and the contribution to the total diet using data from the National Pre-School Nutrition Survey, a nationally representative sample (n500) of Irish children aged 1–4 years. A 4-d weighed food record was used to collect food intake data. Of 1652 food codes consumed, 740 had a fruit/vegetable component. The percentage of edible fruits and/or vegetables in each food code was calculated. Intakes (g/d), sources (g/d) and the contribution of F&V to the weight of the total diet (%) were estimated, split by age. All children consumed F&V. Intakes of total fruits, in particular fruit juice, increased with age. The contribution to total fruit intake was discrete fruits (47–56 % range across age), 100 % fruit juice, smoothies and pureés (32–45 %) as well as fruits in composite dishes (7–13 %). Total vegetable intake comprised of discrete vegetables (48–62 % range across age) and vegetables in composite dishes (38–52 %). F&V contributed on average 20 % (15 % fruit; 5 % vegetables) to the weight of the total diet and was <10 % in sixty-one children (12 %). F&V contributed 50 % of vitamin C, 53 % of carotene, 34 % of dietary fibre and 42 % of non-milk sugar intakes from the total diet. F&V are important components of the diet of Irish pre-school children; however, some aspects of F&V intake patterns could be improved in this age group.
Dosimetric comparison between the prostate intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans using the planning target volume (PTV) dose–volume factor
Authors: Chow James C. L. , Jiang Runqing , Kiciak Alexander , Markel Daniel
Published: April 2016

Background

We demonstrated that our proposed planning target volume (PTV) dose–volume factor (PDVF) can be used to evaluate the PTV dose coverage between the intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans based on 90 prostate patients.

Purpose

PDVF were determined from the prostate IMRT and VMAT plans to compare their variation of PTV dose coverage. Comparisons of the PDVF with other plan evaluation parameters such as D5%, D95%, D99%, Dmean, conformity index (CI), homogeneity index (HI), gradient index (GI) and prostate tumour control probability (TCP) were carried out.

Methods and materials

Prostate IMRT and VMAT plans using the 6 MV photon beams were created from 40 and 50 patients, respectively. Dosimetric indices (CI, HI and GI), dose–volume points (D5%, D95%, D99% and Dmean) and prostate TCP were calculated according to the PTV dose–volume histograms (DVHs) of the plans. All PTV DVH curves were fitted using the Gaussian error function (GEF) model. The PDVF were calculated based on the GEF parameters.

Results

From the PTV DVHs of the prostate IMRT and VMAT plans, the average D99% of the PTV for IMRT and VMAT were 74·1 and 74·5 Gy, respectively. The average prostate TCP were 0·956 and 0·958 for the IMRT and VMAT plans, respectively. The average PDVF of the IMRT and VMAT plans were 0·970 and 0·983, respectively. Although both the IMRT and VMAT plans showed very similar prostate TCP, the dosimetric and radiobiological results of the VMAT technique were slightly better than IMRT.

Conclusion

The calculated PDVF for the prostate IMRT and VMAT plans agreed well with other dosimetric and radiobiological parameters in this study. PDVF was verified as an alternative of evaluation parameter in the quality assurance of prostate treatment planning.
Mindful Machine Learning
Authors: Sauer Sebastian , Buettner Ricardo , Heidenreich Thomas , Lemke Jana , Berg Christoph , Kurz Christoph
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Mindfulness refers to a stance of nonjudgmental awareness of present-moment experiences. A growing body of research suggests that mindfulness may increase cognitive resources, thereby buffering stress. However, existing models have not achieved a consensus on how mindfulness should be operationalized. As the sound measurement of mindfulness is the foundation needed before substantial hypotheses can be supported, we propose a novel way of gauging the psychometric quality of a mindfulness measurement instrument (the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory; FMI). Specifically, we employed 10 predictive algorithms to scrutinize the measurement quality of the FMI. Our criterion of measurement quality was the degree to which an algorithm separated mindfulness practitioner from nonpractitioners in a sample of N = 276. A high predictive accuracy of class membership can be taken as an indicator of the psychometric quality of the instrument. In sum, two findings are of interest. First, over and above some items of the FMI were able to reliably predict class membership. However, some items appeared to be uninformative. Second, from an applied methodological point of view, it appears that machine learning algorithms can outperform traditional predictive methods such as logistic regression. This finding may generalize to other branches of research.
A Theoretical Approach to Resolving the Psychometric Problems Associated With the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory
Authors: Worrell Frank C. , Temple Elizabeth C. , McKay Michael T. , Živkovič Urška , Perry John L. , Mello Zena R. , Musil Bojan , Cole Jonathan C.
Published: April 2016

Abstract. The Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI; Zimbardo & Boyd, 1999 ) assesses five time-related constructs – Past Negative (PN), Past Positive (PP), Present Fatalistic (PF), Present Hedonistic (PF), and Future (F) – and is one of the most frequently used time measures in the extant literature. Versions of the ZTPI have been translated into a variety of languages, but the psychometric support for ZTPI scores remains contested. We examined the internal consistency, structural validity, and convergent validity of scores on a version of the ZTPI that consisted only of items that specifically referenced time constructs, the ZTPI-TP. Participants consisted of five samples of adolescents and adults from four countries: Australia (653 adults), Slovenia (425 adolescents and adults), the United Kingdom (913 adolescents; 455 adults), and the United States (815 adolescents). Structural validity analyses provided stronger support for ZTPI-TP scores than for ZTPI scores, and convergent validity evidence also provided support for ZTPI-TP scores. However, analyses revealed that the PF and PH factors were still problematic, especially with regard to factor coefficients and internal consistency estimates. We concluded that the ZTPI-TP can form the basis for a more robust version of the ZTPI.
A SAM oligomerization domain shapes the genomic binding landscape of the LEAFY transcription factor
Authors: Sayou Camille , Nanao Max H. , Jamin Marc , Posé David , Thévenon Emmanuel , Grégoire Laura , Tichtinsky Gabrielle , Denay Grégoire , Ott Felix , Peirats Llobet Marta , Schmid Markus , Dumas Renaud , Parcy François
Published: April 2016

Deciphering the mechanisms directing transcription factors (TFs) to specific genome regions is essential to understand and predict transcriptional regulation. TFs recognize short DNA motifs primarily through their DNA-binding domain. Some TFs also possess an oligomerization domain suspected to potentiate DNA binding but for which the genome-wide influence remains poorly understood. Here we focus on the LEAFY transcription factor, a master regulator of flower development in angiosperms. We have determined the crystal structure of its conserved amino-terminal domain, revealing an unanticipated Sterile Alpha Motif oligomerization domain. We show that this domain is essential to LEAFY floral function. Moreover, combined biochemical and genome-wide assays suggest that oligomerization is required for LEAFY to access regions with low-affinity binding sites or closed chromatin. This finding shows that domains that do not directly contact DNA can nevertheless have a profound impact on the DNA binding landscape of a TF.
Essential role for a novel population of binucleated mammary epithelial cells in lactation
Authors: Rios Anne C. , Fu Nai Yang , Jamieson Paul R. , Pal Bhupinder , Whitehead Lachlan , Nicholas Kevin R. , Lindeman Geoffrey J. , Visvader Jane E.
Published: April 2016

The mammary gland represents a unique tissue to study organogenesis as it predominantly develops in the post-natal animal and undergoes dramatic morphogenetic changes during puberty and the reproductive cycle. The physiological function of the mammary gland is to produce milk to sustain the newborn. Here we view the lactating gland through three-dimensional confocal imaging of intact tissue. We observed that the majority of secretory alveolar cells are binucleated. These cells first arise in very late pregnancy due to failure of cytokinesis and are larger than mononucleated cells. Augmented expression of Aurora kinase-A and Polo-like kinase-1 at the lactogenic switch likely mediates the formation of binucleated cells. Our findings demonstrate an important physiological role for polyploid mammary epithelial cells in lactation, and based on their presence in five different species, suggest that binucleated cells evolved to maximize milk production and promote the survival of offspring across all mammalian species.
Interaction between IGFBP7 and insulin: a theoretical and experimental study
Authors: Ruan Wenjing , Kang Zhengzhong , Li Youzhao , Sun Tianyang , Wang Lipei , Liang Lijun , Lai Maode , Wu Tao
Published: April 2016

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) can bind to insulin with high affinity which inhibits the early steps of insulin action. Lack of recognition mechanism impairs our understanding of insulin regulation before it binds to insulin receptor. Here we combine computational simulations with experimental methods to investigate the interaction between IGFBP7 and insulin. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that His200 and Arg198 in IGFBP7 were key residues. Verified by experimental data, the interaction remained strong in single mutation systems R198E and H200F but became weak in double mutation system R198E-H200F relative to that in wild-type IGFBP7. The results and methods in present study could be adopted in future research of discovery of drugs by disrupting protein–protein interactions in insulin signaling. Nevertheless, the accuracy, reproducibility and costs of free-energy calculation are still problems that need to be addressed before computational methods can become standard binding prediction tools in discovery pipelines.
Analysis of proteome dynamics inside the silk gland lumen of Bombyx mori
Authors: Dong Zhaoming , Zhao Ping , Zhang Yan , Song Qianru , Zhang Xiaolu , Guo Pengchao , Wang Dandan , Xia Qingyou
Published: April 2016

The silk gland is the only organ where silk proteins are synthesized and secreted in the silkworm, Bombyx mori. Silk proteins are stored in the lumen of the silk gland for around eight days during the fifth instar. Determining their dynamic changes is helpful for clarifying the secretion mechanism of silk proteins. Here, we identified the proteome in the silk gland lumen using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and demonstrated its changes during two key stages. From day 5 of the fifth instar to day 1 of wandering, the abundances of fibroins, sericins, seroins and proteins of unknown functions increased significantly in different compartments of the silk gland lumen. As a result, these accumulated proteins constituted the major cocoon components. In contrast, the abundances of enzymes and extracellular matrix proteins decreased in the silk gland lumen, suggesting that they were not the structural constituents of silk. Twenty-five enzymes may be involved in the regulation of hormone metabolism for proper silk gland function. In addition, the metabolism of other non-proteinous components such as chitin and pigment were also discussed in this study.
Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound treatment improved the rate of autograft peripheral nerve regeneration in rat
Authors: Jiang Wenli , Wang Yuexiang , Tang Jie , Peng Jiang , Wang Yu , Guo Quanyi , Guo Zhiyuan , Li Pan , Xiao Bo , Zhang Jinxing
Published: April 2016

Low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has been widely used in clinic for the treatment of repairing pseudarthrosis, bone fractures and of healing in various soft tissues. Some reports indicated that LIPUS accelerated peripheral nerve regeneration including Schwann cells (SCs) and injured nerves. But little is known about its appropriate intensities on autograft nerves. This study was to investigate which intensity of LIPUS improved the regeneration of gold standard postsurgical nerves in experimental rat model. Sprague-Dawley rats were made into 10 mm right side sciatic nerve reversed autologous nerve transplantation and randomly treated with 250 mW/cm2, 500 mW/cm2 or 750 mW/cm2 LIPUS for 2–12 weeks after operation. Functional and pathological results showed that LIPUS of 250 mW/cm2 significantly induced faster rate of axonal regeneration. This suggested that autograft nerve regeneration was improved.
AtSWEET4, a hexose facilitator, mediates sugar transport to axial sinks and affects plant development
Authors: Liu Xiaozhu , Zhang Yan , Yang Chao , Tian Zhihong , Li Jianxiong
Published: April 2016

Plants transport photoassimilates from source organs to sink tissues through the phloem translocation pathway. In the transport phloem, sugars that escape from the sieve tubes are released into the apoplasmic space between the sieve element/companion cell complex (SE/CC) and phloem parenchyma cells (PPCs) during the process of long-distance transport. The competition for sugar acquisition between SE/CC and adjoining PPCs is mediated by plasma membrane translocators. YFP-tagged AtSWEET4 protein is localized in the plasma membrane and PromoterAtSWEET4-GUS analysis showed that AtSWEET4 is expressed in the stele of roots and veins of leaves and flowers. Overexpression of AtSWEET4 in Arabidopsis increases plant size and accumulates more glucose and fructose. By contrast, knock-down of AtSWEET4 by RNA-interference leads to small plant size, reduction in glucose and fructose contents, chlorosis in the leaf vein network and reduction in chlorophyll content in leaves. Yeast assays demonstrated that AtSWEET4 is able to complement both fructose and glucose transport deficiency. Transgenic plants of AtSWEET4 overexpression exhibit higher freezing tolerance and support more growth of bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola NPS3121. We conclude that AtSWEET4 plays an important role in mediating sugar transport in axial tissues during plant growth and development.
Correction: Corrigendum: Improving Low-dose Cardiac CT Images based on 3D Sparse Representation
Authors: Shi Luyao , Hu Yining , Chen Yang , Yin Xindao , Shu Huazhong , Luo Limin , Coatrieux Jean-Louis
Published: April 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 22804; published online: 16 March 2016; updated: 22 April 2016 In the original version of this Article, there were typographical errors in Affiliation 3 which was incorrectly listed as ‘Department of Radiology, Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, 210096, Nanjing, China.
Autonomous oscillation/separation of cell density artificially induced by optical interlink feedback as designed interaction between two isolated microalgae chips
Authors: Ozasa Kazunari , Won June , Song Simon , Maeda Mizuo
Published: April 2016

We demonstrate a designed interaction between two isolated cell populations of Euglena gracilis and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, separately confined in two 25-square micro-aquariums of lab-on-chip size. The interaction was realized by interlinking two identical optical feedback systems, which measured the cell distribution. To analyze the cell populations, we measured the cell distribution in the 25 squares and irradiated the cells with a blue light pattern as an external stimulus. The cell distribution dataset was exchanged between the two systems. Governed by a designed interaction algorithm, the feedback systems produced a dynamic blue light illumination pattern that evoked the photophobic responses of both species. We also induced autonomous cell density oscillation and cell distribution separation and clustering, and analyzed how the types and diversities of the photophobic responses affected the oscillation period and separation and clustering. We conclude that artificial interlink feedback is a promising method for investigating diverse cell–cell interactions in ecological communities, and for developing soft-computing applications with living cells.
Modular design and development methodology for robotic multi-axis F/M sensors
Authors: Liang Qiao-Kang , Zhang Dan , Coppola Gianmarc , Wu Wan-Neng , Zou Kun-Lin , Wang Yao-Nan , Sun Wei , Ge Yun-Jian , Ge Yu
Published: April 2016

Accurate Force/Moment (F/M) measurements are required in many applications and multi-axis F/M sensors have been utilized a wide variety of robotic systems since 1970s. A multi-axis F/M sensor is capable of measuring multiple components of force terms alongx-,y-,z-axis (Fx,Fy,Fz) and the moments terms aboutx-,y- andz-axis (Mx,MyandMz) simultaneously. In this manuscript, we describe experimental and theoretical approaches for using modular Elastic Elements (EE) to efficiently achieve multi-axis, high-performance F/M sensors. Specifically, the proposed approach employs combinations of simple modular elements (e.g. lamella and diaphragm) in monolithic constructions to develop various multi-axis F/M sensors. Models of multi-axis F/M sensors are established and the experimental results indicate that the new approach could be widely used for development of multi-axis F/M sensors for many other different applications.
Erratum: Phase transitions via selective elemental vacancy engineering in complex oxide thin films
Authors: Lee Sang A. , Jeong Hoidong , Woo Sungmin , Hwang Jae-Yeol , Choi Si-Young , Kim Sung-Dae , Choi Minseok , Roh Seulki , Yu Hosung , Hwang Jungseek , Kim Sung Wng , Choi Woo Seok
Published: April 2016

Defect engineering has brought about a unique level of control for Si-based semiconductors, leading to the optimization of various opto-electronic properties and devices. With regard to perovskite transition metal oxides, O vacancies have been a key ingredient in defect engineering, as they play a central role in determining the crystal field and consequent electronic structure, leading to important electronic and magnetic phase transitions. Therefore, experimental approaches toward understanding the role of defects in complex oxides have been largely limited to controlling O vacancies. In this study, we report on the selective formation of different types of elemental vacancies and their individual roles in determining the atomic and electronic structures of perovskite SrTiO3 (STO) homoepitaxial thin films fabricated by pulsed laser epitaxy. Structural and electronic transitions have been achieved via selective control of the Sr and O vacancy concentrations, respectively, indicating a decoupling between the two phase transitions. In particular, O vacancies were responsible for metal-insulator transitions, but did not influence the Sr vacancy induced cubic-to-tetragonal structural transition in epitaxial STO thin film. The independent control of multiple phase transitions in complex oxides by exploiting selective vacancy engineering opens up an unprecedented opportunity toward understanding and customizing complex oxide thin films.
Neural circuitry involved in quitting after repeated failures: role of the cingulate and temporal parietal junction
Authors: Zhao Weihua , Kendrick Keith M , Chen Fei , Li Hong , Feng Tingyong
Published: April 2016

The more times people fail the more likely they are to give up, however little is known about the neural mechanisms underlying this impact of repeated failure on decision making. Here we have used a visual shape discrimination task with computer-controlled feedback combined with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate the neural circuits involved. The behavioral task confirmed that the more times subjects experienced failure the more likely they were to give up, with three successive failures being the key threshold and the majority of subjects reaching the point where they decided to quit and try a new stimulus set after three or four failures. The fMRI analysis revealed activity changes in frontal, parietal, temporal, limbic and striatal regions, especially anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and temporal parietal junction (TPJ) associated with the number of previous failures experienced. Furthermore, their parameter estimates were predictive of subjects’ quitting rate. Thus, subjects reach the point where they decide to quit after three/four failures and this is associated with differential changes in brain regions involved in error monitoring and reward which regulate both failure detection and changes in decision-making strategy.
Precise control of coupling strength in photonic molecules over a wide range using nanoelectromechanical systems
Authors: Du Han , Zhang Xingwang , Chen Guoqiang , Deng Jie , Chau Fook Siong , Zhou Guangya
Published: April 2016

Photonic molecules have a range of promising applications including quantum information processing, where precise control of coupling strength is critical. Here, by laterally shifting the center-to-center offset of coupled photonic crystal nanobeam cavities, we demonstrate a method to precisely and dynamically control the coupling strength of photonic molecules through integrated nanoelectromechanical systems with a precision of a few GHz over a range of several THz without modifying the nature of their constituent resonators. Furthermore, the coupling strength can be tuned continuously from negative (strong coupling regime) to zero (weak coupling regime) and further to positive (strong coupling regime) and vice versa. Our work opens a door to the optimization of the coupling strength of photonic molecules in situ for the study of cavity quantum electrodynamics and the development of efficient quantum information devices.
Physical Modeling of Activation Energy in Organic Semiconductor Devices based on Energy and Momentum Conservations
Authors: Mao Ling-Feng , Ning H. , Hu Changjun , Lu Zhaolin , Wang Gaofeng
Published: April 2016

Field effect mobility in an organic device is determined by the activation energy. A new physical model of the activation energy is proposed by virtue of the energy and momentum conservation equations. The dependencies of the activation energy on the gate voltage and the drain voltage, which were observed in the experiments in the previous independent literature, can be well explained using the proposed model. Moreover, the expression in the proposed model, which has clear physical meanings in all parameters, can have the same mathematical form as the well-known Meyer-Neldel relation, which lacks of clear physical meanings in some of its parameters since it is a phenomenological model. Thus it not only describes a physical mechanism but also offers a possibility to design the next generation of high-performance optoelectronics and integrated flexible circuits by optimizing device physical parameter.
Mechanism Analysis of the Inverse Doppler Effect in Two-Dimensional Photonic Crystal based on Phase Evolution
Authors: Jiang Qiang , Chen Jiabi , Wang Yan , Liang Binming , Hu Jinbing , Zhuang Songlin
Published: April 2016

Although the inverse Doppler effect has been observed experimentally at optical frequencies in photonic crystal with negative effective refractive index, its explanation is based on phenomenological theory rather than a strict theory. Elucidating the physical mechanism underlying the inverse Doppler shift is necessary. In this article, the primary electrical field component in the photonic crystal that leads to negative refraction was extracted and the phase evolution of the entire process when light travels through a moving photonic crystal was investigated using static and dynamic finite different time domain methods. The analysis demonstrates the validity of the use of np (the effective refractive index of the photonic crystal in the light path) in these calculations and reveals the origin of the inverse Doppler effect in photonic crystals.
Optogenetic control of human neurons in organotypic brain cultures
Authors: Andersson My , Avaliani Natalia , Svensson Andreas , Wickham Jenny , Pinborg Lars H. , Jespersen Bo , Christiansen Søren H. , Bengzon Johan , Woldbye David P.D. , Kokaia Merab
Published: April 2016

Optogenetics is one of the most powerful tools in neuroscience, allowing for selective control of specific neuronal populations in the brain of experimental animals, including mammals. We report, for the first time, the application of optogenetic tools to human brain tissue providing a proof-of-concept for the use of optogenetics in neuromodulation of human cortical and hippocampal neurons as a possible tool to explore network mechanisms and develop future therapeutic strategies.
Warming effects on photosynthesis of subtropical tree species: a translocation experiment along an altitudinal gradient
Authors: Li Yiyong , Liu Juxiu , Zhou Guoyi , Huang Wenjuan , Duan Honglang
Published: April 2016

Ongoing climate warming induced by human activities may have great impacts on trees, yet it remains unresolved how subtropical tree species respond to rising temperature in the field. Here, we used downward translocation to investigate the effects of climate warming on leaf photosynthesis of six common tree species in subtropical China. During the experimental period between 2012 and 2014, the mean average photosynthetic rates (Asat) under saturating light for Schima superba, Machilus breviflora, Pinus massoniana and Ardisia lindleyana in the warm site were7%, 19%, 20% and 29% higher than those in the control site. In contrast, seasonal Asat for Castanopsis hystrix in the warm site were lower compared to the control site. Changes in Asat in response to translocation were mainly associated with those in leaf stomatal conductance (gs) and photosynthetic capacity (RuBP carboxylation, RuBP regeneration capacity). Our results imply that climate warming could have potential impacts on species composition and community structure in subtropical forests.