bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spin-Related Micro-Photoluminescence in Fe3+ Doped ZnSe Nanoribbons
Authors: Hou Lipeng , Chen Cheng , Zhang Li , Xu Qiankun , Yang Xinxin , Farooq Muhammad , Han Junbo , Liu Ruibin , Zhang Yongyou , Shi Lijie , Zou Bingsuo
Published: December 2016

Spin-related emission properties have important applications in the future information technology; however, they involve microscopic ferromagnetic coupling, antiferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic coupling between transition metal ions and excitons, or d state coupling with phonons is not well understood in these diluted magnetic semiconductors (DMS). Fe3+ doped ZnSe nanoribbons, as a DMS example, have been successfully prepared by a thermal evaporation method. Their power-dependent micro-photoluminescence (PL) spectra and temperature-dependent PL spectra of a single ZnSe:Fe nanoribbon have been obtained and demonstrated that alio-valence ion doping diminishes the exciton magnetic polaron (EMP) effect by introducing exceeded charges. The d-d transition emission peaks of Fe3+ assigned to the 4T2 (G) → 6A1 (S) transition at 553 nm and 4T1 (G) → 6A1 (S) transition at 630 nm in the ZnSe lattice have been observed. The emission lifetimes and their temperature dependences have been obtained, which reflected different spin–phonon interactions. There exists a sharp decrease of PL lifetime at about 60 K, which hints at a magnetic phase transition. These spin–spin and spin–phonon interaction related PL phenomena are applicable in the future spin-related photonic nanodevices.
Unstable and Multiple Pulsing Can Be Invisible to Ultrashort Pulse Measurement Techniques
Authors: Rhodes Michelle , Guang Zhe , Trebino Rick
Published: December 2016

Multiple pulsing occurs in most ultrashort-pulse laser systems when pumped at excessively high powers, and small fluctuations in pump power in certain regimes can cause unusual variations in the temporal separations of sub-pulses. Unfortunately, the ability of modern intensity-and-phase pulse measurement techniques to measure such unstable multi-pulsing has not been studied. Here we report calculations and simulations finding that allowing variations in just the relative phase of a satellite pulse causes the second pulse to completely disappear from a spectral interferometry for direct electric field reconstruction (SPIDER) measurement. We find that, although neither frequency-resolved optical gating (FROG) nor autocorrelation can determine the precise properties of satellite pulses due to the presence of instability, they always succeed in, at least, seeing the satellite pulses. Also, additional post-processing of the measured FROG trace can determine the correct approximate relative height of the satellite pulse and definitively indicate the presence of unstable multiple-pulsing.
Assessing Upper Tropospheric Jet Streak Proximity Using the Rossby Radius of Deformation
Authors: Kastman Joshua , Market Patrick , Rochette Scott , Lupo Anthony
Published: December 2016

The Rossby radius of deformation is a parameter that describes the relative role of buoyant and inertial forces for atmospheric phenomena in a flow regime. It will be demonstrated that it can also be used to determine whether or not forcing for vertical motions in the region between upper level tropospheric jet streaks overlaps or interacts. Using predefined points in the entrance and exit regions of neighboring upper level jet streaks, the distance between them is calculated for each event. If they are closer than twice the Rossby radius of deformation, the resulting region affected by both streaks is termed the Rossby Radius of Deformation Overlap Zone (RRDOZ). Plan-view and cross-sectional analysis shows that ageostrophic transverse circulations within the RRDOZ led to enhanced upward vertical velocities as predicted in prior research. Lastly, a short-term climatology for overlap events in North America is derived, and these are classified according to three proposed archetypes.
An Unusual Case of Post-Traumatic Headache Complicated by Intracranial Hypotension
Authors: Siavoshi Sara , Dougherty Carrie , Ailani Jessica , Yadwadkar Kaustubh , Berkowitz Frank
Published: December 2016

We present a case of post-traumatic headache complicated by intracranial hypotension resulting in an acquired Chiari malformation and myelopathy with syringomyelia. This constellation of findings suggest a possible series of events that started with a traumatic cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) leak, followed by descent of the cerebellar tonsils and disruption of CSF circulation that caused spinal cord swelling and syrinx. This unusual presentation of post-traumatic headache highlights the varying presentations and the potential sequelae of intracranial hypotension. In addition, the delayed onset of upper motor neuron symptoms along with initially normal head computerized tomography scan (CT) findings, beg the question of whether or not a post-traumatic headache warrants earlier magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
The Interplay of Hippocampus and Ventromedial Prefrontal Cortex in Memory-Based Decision Making
Authors: Weilbächer Regina , Gluth Sebastian
Published: December 2016

Episodic memory and value-based decision making are two central and intensively studied research domains in cognitive neuroscience, but we are just beginning to understand how they interact to enable memory-based decisions. The two brain regions that have been associated with episodic memory and value-based decision making are the hippocampus and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, respectively. In this review article, we first give an overview of these brain–behavior associations and then focus on the mechanisms of potential interactions between the hippocampus and ventromedial prefrontal cortex that have been proposed and tested in recent neuroimaging studies. Based on those possible interactions, we discuss several directions for future research on the neural and cognitive foundations of memory-based decision making.
DSM Nosology Changes in Neuropsychological Diagnoses through the Years: A Look at ADHD and Mild Neurocognitive Disorder
Authors: Carlew Anne , Zartman Andrea
Published: December 2016

This article discusses the evolution of modern neuropsychology as a field and the concomitant changes in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Themes in neuropsychology through the years will be highlighted alongside discussion of how neuropsychologists and neuropsychological research have influenced and have been influenced by the DSM. The DSM 5 attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and mild neurocognitive disorder will be used as examples to reflect the evolution of the disorders in relation to neuropsychology and the DSM. In particular, recent criticism and research regarding the nosology of both disorders and future directions will be presented in the context of neuropsychology and DSM. Finally, influence regarding changes to the DSM 5 on neuropsychology in clinical decision making, test selection, and diagnosis will be discussed.
Poverty-Related Adversity and Emotion Regulation Predict Internalizing Behavior Problems among Low-Income Children Ages 8–11
Authors: Raver C. , Roy Amanda , Pressler Emily , Ursache Alexandra , Charles McCoy Dana
Published: December 2016

The current study examines the additive and joint roles of chronic poverty-related adversity and three candidate neurocognitive processes of emotion regulation (ER)—including: (i) attention bias to threat (ABT); (ii) accuracy of facial emotion appraisal (FEA); and (iii) negative affect (NA)—for low-income, ethnic minority children’s internalizing problems (N = 338). Children were enrolled in the current study from publicly funded preschools, with poverty-related adversity assessed at multiple time points from early to middle childhood. Field-based administration of neurocognitively-informed assessments of ABT, FEA and NA as well as parental report of internalizing symptoms were collected when children were ages 8–11, 6 years after baseline. Results suggest that chronic exposure to poverty-related adversity from early to middle childhood predicted higher levels of internalizing symptomatology when children are ages 8–11, even after controlling for initial poverty status and early internalizing symptoms in preschool. Moreover, each of the 3 hypothesized components of ER played an independent and statistically significant role in predicting children’s parent-reported internalizing symptoms at the 6-year follow-up, even after controlling for early and chronic poverty-related adversity.
A Comparative Study of Empirical Mode Decomposition-Based Filtering for Impact Signal
Authors: Zhan Liwei , Li Chengwei
Published: December 2016

The Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (CEEMDAN) has been used to propose a new method for filtering time series originating from nonlinear systems. The filtering method is based on fuzzy entropy and a new waveform. A new waveform is defined wherein Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs)—which are obtained by CEEMDAN algorithm—are firstly sorted in ascending order (the sorted IMFs is symmetric about center point, because at any point, the mean value of the envelope line defined by the local maxima and the local minima is zero), and the energy of the sorted IMFs are calculated, respectively. Finally, the new waveform with axial symmetry can be obtained. The complexity of the new waveform can be quantified by fuzzy entropy. The relevant modes (noisy signal modes and useful signal modes) can be identified by the difference between the fuzzy entropy of the new waveform and the next adjacent new waveform. To evaluate the filter performance, CEEMDAN and sample entropy, Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (EEMD) and fuzzy entropy, and EEMD and sample entropy were used to filter the synthesizing signals with various levels of input signal-to-noise ratio (SNRin). In particular, this approach is successful in filtering impact signal. The results of the filtering are evaluated by a de-trended fluctuation analysis (DFA) algorithm, revised mean square error (RMSE), and revised signal-to-noise ratio (RSNR), respectively. The filtering results of simulated and impact signal show that the filtering method based on CEEMDAN and fuzzy entropy outperforms other signal filtering methods.
Networking Theories on Giftedness—What We Can Learn from Synthesizing Renzulli’s Domain General and Krutetskii’s Mathematics-Specific Theory
Authors: Schindler Maike , Rott Benjamin
Published: December 2016

Giftedness is an increasingly important research topic in educational sciences and mathematics education in particular. In this paper, we contribute to further theorizing mathematical giftedness through illustrating how networking processes can be conducted and illustrating their potential benefits. The paper focuses on two theories: Renzulli’s domain-general theory on giftedness as an interplay of creativity, above-average ability, and task commitment; and Krutetskii’s mathematics-specific theory on gifted students’ abilities. In a “proof of concept”, we illustrate how the abilities offered in Krutetskii’s theory can be mapped to the three traits described by Renzulli. This is realized through a mapping process in which two raters independently mapped the abilities offered by Krutetskii to Renzulli’s traits. The results of this mapping give first insights into (a) possible mappings of Krutetskii’s abilities to Renzulli’s traits and, thus, (b) a possible domain-specific specification of Renzulli’s theory. This mapping hints at interesting potential phenomena: in Krutetskii’s theory, above-average ability appears to be the trait that predominantly is addressed, whereas creativity and especially task-commitment seem less represented. Our mapping demonstrates what a mathematics-specific specification of Renzulli’s theory can look like. Finally, we elaborate on the consequences of our findings, restrictions of our methodology, and on possible future research.
Pre-logging Treatment of Invasive Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus Mill.) Promotes Regeneration of Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus L.)
Authors: Lee Thomas , Eisenhaure Stephen , Gaudreau Ian
Published: December 2016

Non-native glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus Mill.) is invasive in forests of the northeastern USA but little is known of its effects on tree regeneration. We tested whether killing buckthorn stems before logging reduces its post-logging abundance and increases the density and height of eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.) seedlings. Three 0.4 ha plots were clearcut, three were thinned, and three were left as controls. Each plot had previously been divided into three subplots that received different buckthorn treatments during the two years before logging. Buckthorn treatments were (1) stems cut at base five times; (2) stems cut once then heat killed four times; (3) untreated control. Three years post-logging, buckthorn density and stem height were unaffected by logging but equally reduced by the two buckthorn treatments. Buckthorn reduction increased density and height of pine seedlings, and seedling height also increased with logging. In the fifth year post-logging, pine height growth and biomass were greater in clearcut than in thinned treatments, greater in areas of buckthorn removal and, within treated subplots, greater in areas with low buckthorn density than in thickets of recovering buckthorn. Thus, although buckthorn inhibited regenerating pine, pre-logging destruction of buckthorn stems reduced such competition for at least four years.
Maternal Exposure to Domestic Hair Cosmetics and Occupational Endocrine Disruptors Is Associated with a Higher Risk of Hypospadias in the Offspring
Authors: Haraux Elodie , Braun Karine , Buisson Philippe , Stéphan-Blanchard Erwan , Devauchelle Camille , Ricard Jannick , Boudailliez Bernard , Tourneux Pierre , Gouron Richard , Chardon Karen
Published: December 2016

Pregnant women are exposed to various chemical products at home and at work. Some of these products contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as cosmetics, pesticides, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, plastics or medications that could alter sexual differentiation and increase the risk of hypospadias. We evaluated maternal occupational and household exposures that could constitute risk factors for hypospadias. From 2011 to 2014, we enrolled 57 full-term newborns with hypospadias and three randomly selected controls per case (162 control newborns), matched for gestational age, from 11 maternity units in Picardy, France. Neonatal and parental data were collected at birth (personal characteristics, maternal lifestyle, and medical history). Maternal occupational exposure was assessed by a job-exposure matrix for EDCs from a job history questionnaire completed by mothers. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated with univariate and multivariable logistic regression, and adjusted for relevant covariates. Multivariate analysis showed a strong association between hypospadias and potential maternal occupational exposure to EDCs and maternal household use of hair cosmetics (OR 6.1, 95% CI: 1.1–34.9; OR: 9.6, 95% CI: 1.4–66.1, respectively). Our results suggest that maternal occupational exposure to EDCs is a risk factor for hypospadias and suggests a possible influence of household use of hair cosmetics during early pregnancy on the incidence of hypospadias in the offspring. A larger study with more accurate exposure assessment should evaluate the impact of EDCs in hair cosmetics on the incidence of hypospadias.
Hazard Assessment of Debris-Flow along the Baicha River in Heshigten Banner, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Cao Chen , Xu Peihua , Chen Jianping , Zheng Lianjing , Niu Cencen
Published: December 2016

This study focused on a cloud model approach for considering debris-flow hazard assessment, in which the cloud model provided a model for transforming the qualitative and quantitative expressions. Additionally, the entropy method and analytical hierarchy process were united for calculating the parameters weights. The weighting method avoids the disadvantages inherent in using subjective or objective methods alone. Based on the cloud model and component weighting method, a model was established for the analysis of debris-flow hazard assessment. There are 29 debris-flow catchments around the pumped storage power station in the study area located near Zhirui (Inner Mongolia, China). Field survey data and 3S technologies were used for data collection. The results of the cloud model calculation process showed that of the 29 catchments, 25 had low debris-flow hazard assessment, three had moderate hazard assessment, and one had high hazard assessment. The widely used extenics method and field geological surveys were used to validate the proposed approach. This approach shows high potential as a useful tool for debris-flow hazard assessment analysis. Compared with other prediction methods, it avoids the randomness and fuzziness in uncertainty problems, and its prediction results are considered reasonable.
Label-Free Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Harmless and Pathogenic Strains of Infectious Microalgae, Prototheca spp.
Authors: Murugaiyan Jayaseelan , Eravci Murat , Weise Christoph , Roesler Uwe
Published: December 2016

Microalgae of the genus Prototheca (P.) spp are associated with rare algal infections of invertebrates termed protothecosis. Among the seven generally accepted species, P. zopfii genotype 2 (GT2) is associated with a severe form of bovine mastitis while P. blaschkeae causes the mild and sub-clinical form of mastitis. The reason behind the infectious nature of P. zopfii GT2, while genotype 1 (GT1) remains non-infectious, is not known. Therefore, in the present study we investigated the protein expression level difference between the genotypes of P. zopfii and P. blaschkeae. Cells were cultured to the mid-exponential phase, harvested, and processed for LC-MS analysis. Peptide data was acquired on an LTQ Orbitrap Velos, raw spectra were quantitatively analyzed with MaxQuant software and matching with the reference database of Chlorella variabilis and Auxenochlorella protothecoides resulted in the identification of 226 proteins. Comparison of an environmental strain with infectious strains resulted in the identification of 51 differentially expressed proteins related to carbohydrate metabolism, energy production and protein translation. The expression level of Hsp70 proteins and their role in the infectious process is worth further investigation. All mass spectrometry data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD005305.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Euterpe oleracea Roots and Leaflets
Authors: Brunschwig Christel , Leba Louis-Jérôme , Saout Mona , Martial Karine , Bereau Didier , Robinson Jean-Charles
Published: December 2016

Euterpe oleracea (açaí) is a palm tree well known for the high antioxidant activity of its berries used as dietary supplements. Little is known about the biological activity and the composition of its vegetative organs. The objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidant activity of root and leaflet extracts of Euterpe oleracea (E. oleracea) and characterize their phytochemicals. E. oleracea roots and leaflets extracts were screened in different chemical antioxidant assays (DPPH—2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, FRAP—ferric feducing antioxidant power, and ORAC—oxygen radical absorbance capacity), in a DNA nicking assay and in a cellular antioxidant activity assay. Their polyphenolic profiles were determined by UV and LC-MS/MS. E. oleracea leaflets had higher antioxidant activity than E. oleracea berries, and leaflets of Oenocarpus bacaba and Oenocarpus bataua, as well as similar antioxidant activity to green tea. E. oleracea leaflet extracts were more complex than root extracts, with fourteen compounds, including caffeoylquinic acids and C-glycosyl derivatives of apigenin and luteolin. In the roots, six caffeoylquinic and caffeoylshikimic acids were identified. Qualitative compositions of E. oleracea, Oenocarpus bacaba and Oenocarpus bataua leaflets were quite similar, whereas the quantitative compositions were quite different. These results provide new prospects for the valorization of roots and leaflets of E. oleracea in the pharmaceutical, food or cosmetic industry, as they are currently by-products of the açaí industry.
Lysyl Oxidase and the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Wang Tong-Hong , Hsia Shih-Min , Shieh Tzong-Ming
Published: December 2016

The lysyl oxidase (LOX) family of oxidases contains a group of extracellular copper-dependent enzymes that catalyze the cross-linking of collagen and elastin by oxidation, thus maintaining the rigidity and structural stability of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Aberrant expression or activation of LOX alters the cellular microenvironment, leading to many diseases, including atherosclerosis, tissue fibrosis, and cancer. Recently, a number of studies have shown that LOX is overexpressed in most cancers and that it is involved in the regulation of tumor progression and metastasis. In contrast, a few reports have also indicated the tumor-suppressing role of LOX. In this short review, we discuss recent research on the correlations between LOX and cancer. Further, the role of LOX in tumor microenvironment remodeling, tumorigenesis, and metastasis and the underlying mechanisms have also been elucidated.
Current Concepts of ARDS: A Narrative Review
Authors: Umbrello Michele , Formenti Paolo , Bolgiaghi Luca , Chiumello Davide
Published: December 2016

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by the acute onset of pulmonary edema of non-cardiogenic origin, along with bilateral pulmonary infiltrates and reduction in respiratory system compliance. The hallmark of the syndrome is refractory hypoxemia. Despite its first description dates back in the late 1970s, a new definition has recently been proposed. However, the definition remains based on clinical characteristic. In the present review, the diagnostic workup and the pathophysiology of the syndrome will be presented. Therapeutic approaches to ARDS, including lung protective ventilation, prone positioning, neuromuscular blockade, inhaled vasodilators, corticosteroids and recruitment manoeuvres will be reviewed. We will underline how a holistic framework of respiratory and hemodynamic support should be provided to patients with ARDS, aiming to ensure adequate gas exchange by promoting lung recruitment while minimizing the risk of ventilator-induced lung injury. To do so, lung recruitability should be considered, as well as the avoidance of lung overstress by monitoring transpulmonary pressure or airway driving pressure. In the most severe cases, neuromuscular blockade, prone positioning, and extra-corporeal life support (alone or in combination) should be taken into account.
4-Chloro-6-ethoxy-2-(methylthio)pyrimidine
Authors: Kalogirou Andreas , Koutentis Panayiotis
Published: December 2016

4,6-Dichloro-2-(methylthio)pyrimidine (3) reacts with EtONa in EtOH, at ca. 20 °C, for 2 h, to give exclusively 4-chloro-6-ethoxy-2-(methylthio)pyrimidine (5) in 89% yield. The latter is presented as a useful multifunctionalised pyrimidine scaffold.
Microwave-Assisted Polyol Synthesis of Water Dispersible Red-Emitting Eu3+-Modified Carbon Dots
Authors: Dong Hailong , Kuzmanoski Ana , Wehner Tobias , Müller-Buschbaum Klaus , Feldmann Claus
Published: December 2016

Eu3+-modified carbon dots (C-dots), 3–5 nm in diameter, were prepared, functionalized, and stabilized via a one-pot polyol synthesis. The role of Eu2+/Eu3+, the influence of O2 (oxidation) and H2O (hydrolysis), as well as the impact of the heating procedure (conventional resistance heating and microwave (MW) heating) were explored. With the reducing conditions of the polyol at the elevated temperature of synthesis (200–230 °C), first of all, Eu2+ was obtained resulting in the blue emission of the C-dots. Subsequent to O2-driven oxidation, Eu3+-modified, red-emitting C-dots were realized. However, the Eu3+ emission is rapidly quenched by water for C-dots prepared via conventional resistance heating. In contrast to the hydroxyl functionalization of conventionally-heated C-dots, MW-heating results in a carboxylate functionalization of the C-dots. Carboxylate-coordinated Eu3+, however, turned out as highly stable even in water. Based on this fundamental understanding of synthesis and material, in sum, a one-pot polyol approach is established that results in H2O-dispersable C-dots with intense red Eu3+-line-type emission.
Microfluidic Separation of a Soluble Substance Using Transverse Diffusion in a Layered Flow
Authors: Nguyen Xuan , Jeon Hyeong , Kim Hyo , Paik Hyun , Huh June , Kim Hyung , Go Jeung
Published: December 2016

This paper presents a practical flow-through method to separate anisole and ethyl phenylacetate, respectively, from a polystyrene mixture. The microfluidic separation uses different diffusive dynamics of the substances transverse to the lamination flow formed in a microchannel. The effect of inlet flow rates and ambient temperature on separation is examined. Additionally, the possibility of the separation of the light substance from the mixture with different molecular weight is shown numerically and experimentally. The separation efficiency is explained by the facts that the relaxation time depends on the inlet flow rate and that the diffusivity depends on the ambient temperature. This method can be applied to separate monomers from aggregates.
Ginsenoside Re Promotes Osteoblast Differentiation in Mouse Osteoblast Precursor MC3T3-E1 Cells and a Zebrafish Model
Authors: Kim Hye-Min , Kim Dong , Han Ho-Jin , Park Chan-Mi , Ganipisetti Srinivas , Valan Arasu Mariadhas , Kim Young , Park Chun , Kim Bo-Yeon , Soung Nak-Kyun
Published: December 2016

Bone homeostasis is tightly regulated to balance bone formation and bone resorption. Many anabolic drugs are used as bone-targeted therapeutic agents for the promotion of osteoblast-mediated bone formation or inhibition of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. Previous studies showed that ginsenoside Re has the effect of the suppression of osteoclast differentiation in mouse bone-marrow derived macrophages and zebrafish. Herein, we investigated whether ginsenoside Re affects osteoblast differentiation and mineralization in in vitro and in vivo models. Mouse osteoblast precursor MC3T3-E1 cells were used to investigate cell viability, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and mineralization. In addition, we examined osteoblastic signaling pathways. Ginsenoside Re affected ALP activity without cytotoxicity, and we also observed the stimulation of osteoblast differentiation through the activation of osteoblast markers including runt-related transcription factor 2, type 1 collagen, ALP, and osteocalcin in MC3T3-E1 cells. Moreover, Alizarin red S staining indicated that ginsenoside Re increased osteoblast mineralization in MC3T3-E1 cells and zebrafish scales compared to controls. These results suggest that ginsenoside Re promotes osteoblast differentiation as well as inhibits osteoclast differentiation, and it could be a potential therapeutic agent for bone diseases.
Design, Synthesis and Cellular Characterization of a Dual Inhibitor of 5-Lipoxygenase and Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase
Authors: Meirer Karin , Glatzel Daniel , Kretschmer Simon , Wittmann Sandra , Hartmann Markus , Blöcher René , Angioni Carlo , Geisslinger Gerd , Steinhilber Dieter , Hofmann Bettina , Fürst Robert , Proschak Ewgenij
Published: December 2016

The arachidonic acid cascade is a key player in inflammation, and numerous well-established drugs interfere with this pathway. Previous studies have suggested that simultaneous inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) and soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) results in synergistic anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, a novel prototype of a dual 5-LO/sEH inhibitor KM55 was rationally designed and synthesized. KM55 was evaluated in enzyme activity assays with recombinant enzymes. Furthermore, activity of KM55 in human whole blood and endothelial cells was investigated. KM55 potently inhibited both enzymes in vitro and attenuated the formation of leukotrienes in human whole blood. KM55 was also tested in a cell function-based assay. The compound significantly inhibited the LPS-induced adhesion of leukocytes to endothelial cells by blocking leukocyte activation.
Drosophila Protein Kinase CK2: Genetics, Regulatory Complexity and Emerging Roles during Development
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Mohna , Arbet Scott , Bishop Clifton , Bidwai Ashok
Published: December 2016

CK2 is a Ser/Thr protein kinase that is highly conserved amongst all eukaryotes. It is a well-known oncogenic kinase that regulates vital cell autonomous functions and animal development. Genetic studies in the fruit fly Drosophila are providing unique insights into the roles of CK2 in cell signaling, embryogenesis, organogenesis, neurogenesis, and the circadian clock, and are revealing hitherto unknown complexities in CK2 functions and regulation. Here, we review Drosophila CK2 with respect to its structure, subunit diversity, potential mechanisms of regulation, developmental abnormalities linked to mutations in the gene encoding CK2 subunits, and emerging roles in multiple aspects of eye development. We examine the Drosophila CK2 “interaction map” and the eye-specific “transcriptome” databases, which raise the prospect that this protein kinase has many additional targets in the developing eye. We discuss the possibility that CK2 functions during early retinal neurogenesis in Drosophila and mammals bear greater similarity than has been recognized, and that this conservation may extend to other developmental programs. Together, these studies underscore the immense power of the Drosophila model organism to provide new insights and avenues to further investigate developmentally relevant targets of this protein kinase.
Cold Tolerance of the Male Gametophyte during Germination and Tube Growth Depends on the Flowering Time
Authors: Wagner Johanna , Gastl Evelyn , Kogler Martin , Scheiber Michaela
Published: December 2016

In temperate climates, most plants flower during the warmer season of the year to avoid negative effects of low temperatures on reproduction. Nevertheless, few species bloom in midwinter and early spring despite severe and frequent frosts at that time. This raises the question of adaption of sensible progamic processes such as pollen germination and pollen tube growth to low temperatures. The performance of the male gametophyte of 12 herbaceous lowland species flowering in different seasons was examined in vitro at different test temperatures using an easy to handle testing system. Additionally, the capacity to recover after the exposure to cold was checked. We found a clear relationship between cold tolerance of the activated male gametophyte and the flowering time. In most summer-flowering species, pollen germination stopped between 1 and 5 °C, whereas pollen of winter and early spring flowering species germinated even at temperatures below zero. Furthermore, germinating pollen was exceptionally frost tolerant in cold adapted plants, but suffered irreversible damage already from mild sub-zero temperatures in summer-flowering species. In conclusion, male gametophytes show a high adaptation potential to cold which might exceed that of female tissues. For an overall assessment of temperature limits for sexual reproduction it is therefore important to consider female functions as well.
Light-Responsive Polymer Micro- and Nano-Capsules
Authors: Marturano Valentina , Cerruti Pierfrancesco , Giamberini Marta , Tylkowski Bartosz , Ambrogi Veronica
Published: December 2016

A significant amount of academic and industrial research efforts are devoted to the encapsulation of active substances within micro- or nanocarriers. The ultimate goal of core–shell systems is the protection of the encapsulated substance from the environment, and its controlled and targeted release. This can be accomplished by employing “stimuli-responsive” materials as constituents of the capsule shell. Among a wide range of factors that induce the release of the core material, we focus herein on the light stimulus. In polymers, this feature can be achieved introducing a photo-sensitive segment, whose activation leads to either rupture or modification of the diffusive properties of the capsule shell, allowing the delivery of the encapsulated material. Micro- and nano-encapsulation techniques are constantly spreading towards wider application fields, and many different active molecules have been encapsulated, such as additives for food-packaging, pesticides, dyes, pharmaceutics, fragrances and flavors or cosmetics. Herein, a review on the latest and most challenging polymer-based micro- and nano-sized hollow carriers exhibiting a light-responsive release behavior is presented. A special focus is put on systems activated by wavelengths less harmful for living organisms (mainly in the ultraviolet, visible and infrared range), as well as on different preparation techniques, namely liposomes, self-assembly, layer-by-layer, and interfacial polymerization.
A Modifier-Adaptation Strategy towards Offset-Free Economic MPC
Authors: Vaccari Marco , Pannocchia Gabriele
Published: December 2016

We address in the paper the problem of designing an economic model predictive control (EMPC) algorithm that asymptotically achieves the optimal performance despite the presence of plant-model mismatch. To motivate the problem, we present an example of a continuous stirred tank reactor in which available EMPC and tracking model predictive control (MPC) algorithms do not reach the optimal steady state operation. We propose to use an offset-free disturbance model and to modify the target optimization problem with a correction term that is iteratively computed to enforce the necessary conditions of optimality in the presence of plant-model mismatch. Then, we show how the proposed formulation behaves on the motivating example, highlighting the role of the stage cost function used in the finite horizon MPC problem.
Multisource Remote Sensing Imagery Fusion Scheme Based on Bidimensional Empirical Mode Decomposition (BEMD) and Its Application to the Extraction of Bamboo Forest
Authors: Liu Guang , Li Lei , Gong Hui , Jin Qingwen , Li Xinwu , Song Rui , Chen Yun , Chen Yu , He Chengxin , Huang Yuqing , Yao Yuefeng
Published: December 2016

Most bamboo forests grow in humid climates in low-latitude tropical or subtropical monsoon areas, and they are generally located in hilly areas. Bamboo trunks are very straight and smooth, which means that bamboo forests have low structural diversity. These features are beneficial to synthetic aperture radar (SAR) microwave penetration and they provide special information in SAR imagery. However, some factors (e.g., foreshortening) can compromise the interpretation of SAR imagery. The fusion of SAR and optical imagery is considered an effective method with which to obtain information on ground objects. However, most relevant research has been based on two types of remote sensing image. This paper proposes a new fusion scheme, which combines three types of image simultaneously, based on two fusion methods: bidimensional empirical mode decomposition (BEMD) and the Gram-Schmidt transform. The fusion of panchromatic and multispectral images based on the Gram-Schmidt transform can enhance spatial resolution while retaining multispectral information. BEMD is an adaptive decomposition method that has been applied widely in the analysis of nonlinear signals and to the nonstable signal of SAR. The fusion of SAR imagery with fused panchromatic and multispectral imagery using BEMD is based on the frequency information of the images. It was established that the proposed fusion scheme is an effective remote sensing image interpretation method, and that the value of entropy and the spatial frequency of the fused images were improved in comparison with other techniques such as the discrete wavelet, à-trous, and non-subsampled contourlet transform methods. Compared with the original image, information entropy of the fusion image based on BEMD improves about 0.13–0.38. Compared with the other three methods it improves about 0.06–0.12. The average gradient of BEMD is 4%–6% greater than for other methods. BEMD maintains spatial frequency 3.2–4.0 higher than other methods. The experimental results showed the proposed fusion scheme could improve the accuracy of bamboo forest classification. Accuracy increased by 12.1%, and inaccuracy was reduced by 11.0%.
Evaluation of a Phenology-Dependent Response Method for Estimating Leaf Area Index of Rice Across Climate Gradients
Authors: Lee Bora , Kwon Hyojung , Miyata Akira , Lindner Steve , Tenhunen John
Published: December 2016

Accurate estimate of the seasonal leaf area index (LAI) in croplands is required for understanding not only intra- and inter-annual crop development, but also crop management. Lack of consideration in different growth phases in the relationship between LAI and vegetation indices (VI) often results in unsatisfactory estimation in the seasonal course of LAI. In this study, we partitioned the growing season into two phases separated by maximum VI ( VI max ) and applied the general regression model to the data gained from two phases. As an alternative method to capture the influence of seasonal phenological development on the LAI-VI relationship, we developed a consistent development curve method and compared its performance with the general regression approaches. We used the Normalized Difference VI (NDVI) and the Enhanced VI (EVI) from the rice paddy sites in Asia (South Korea and Japan) and Europe (Spain) to examine its applicability across different climate conditions and management cycles. When the general regression method was used, separating the season into two phases resulted in no better estimation than the estimation obtained with the entire season observation due to an abrupt change in seasonal LAI occurring during the transition between the before and after VI max . The consistent development curve method reproduced the seasonal patterns of LAI from both NDVI and EVI across all sites better than the general regression method. Despite less than satisfactory estimation of a local LAI max , the consistent development curve method demonstrates improvement in estimating the seasonal course of LAI. The method can aid in providing accurate seasonal LAI as an input into ecological process-based models.
A Simple Interfacial Platform for Homogeneous Electrochemical Immunoassays Using a Poly(Vinylimidazole)-Modified Electrode
Authors: Choi Young-Bong , Jeon Won-Yong , Kim Hyug-Han
Published: December 2016

In this study, a homogeneous method featuring simple, one-step detection was developed to analyze hippuric acid (HA), a major metabolite of toluene. High sensitivity was achieved with the facile immobilization of poly(vinylimidazole) (PVI) on an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode. Using a previously developed approach, pentacyanoferrate was coordinated with pyridyl-N ligands, and the redox-active Fe(II/III) centers were bound to Ni(II) ions on the electrode via electrostatic cyanide bridges. The detection was accomplished by the competitive binding of free HA and pentacyanoferrate-(4-aminomethylpyridine-hippuric acid) (Fe-HA, the electron transfer mediator) to the HA antibody on the Ni(II) ions-modified PVI-ITO (Ni-PVI-ITO) electrode. The electrical and physicochemical characterization of the electrode was carried out by cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. At low mediator concentrations, the electrical signals were proportional to the HA concentration between 0.1 µg/mL and 1.0 mg/mL. The same method may be extended to other small organic molecules.
China’s New Urban Space Regulation Policies: A Study of Urban Development Boundary Delineations
Authors: Zhuang Zhuzhou , Li Kaiyuan , Liu Jiaxun , Cheng Qianwen , Gao Yu , Shan Jinxia , Cai Lingyan , Huang Qiuhao , Chen Yanming , Chen Dong
Published: December 2016

China’s rapid urbanisation has led to ecological deterioration and reduced the land available for agricultural production. The purpose of this study is to develop an urban development boundary delineation (UDBD) model using the high-tech manufacturing area of Xinbei in the District of Changzhou as a case study, and by applying remote sensing, GIS, and other technologies. China’s UDBD policies are reviewed, spatiotemporal changes since 1985 are documented, and future expansion is modelled to 2020. The simulated urban-growth patterns are analysed in relation to China’s policies for farmland preservation, ecological redlines protection areas, and housing developments. The UDBD model developed in this study satisfies regional farmland and ecological space protection constraints, while being consistent with urban development strategies. This study provides theoretical references and technological support for the implementation of land management policies that will optimize land allocations for urban growth, agriculture, and ecological protection.
Experiences of Mass Pig Carcass Disposal Related to Groundwater Quality Monitoring in Taiwan
Authors: Hseu Zeng-Yei , Chen Zueng-Sang
Published: December 2016

The pig industry is the most crucial animal industry in Taiwan; 10.7 million pigs were reared for consumption in 1996. A foot and mouth disease (FMD) epidemic broke out on 19 March 1997, and 3,850,536 pigs were culled before July in the same year. The major disposal method of pig carcasses from the FMD outbreak was burial, followed by burning and incineration. To investigate groundwater quality, environmental monitoring of burial sites was performed from October 1997 to June 1999; groundwater monitoring of 90–777 wells in 20 prefectures was performed wo to six times in 1998. Taiwanese governmental agencies analyzed 3723 groundwater samples using a budget of US $1.5 million. The total bacterial count, fecal coliform, Salmonella spp., nitrite-N, nitrate-N, ammonium-N, sulfate, non-purgeable organic carbon, total oil, and total dissolved solid were recognized as indicators of groundwater contamination resulting from pig carcass burial. Groundwater at the burial sites was considered to be contaminated on the basis of the aforementioned indicators, particularly groundwater at burial sites without an impermeable cloth and those located at a relatively short distance from the monitoring well. The burial sites selected during outbreaks in Taiwan should have a low surrounding population, be away from water preservation areas, and undergo regular monitoring of groundwater quality.
Environmental Efficiency and Its Determinants for Manufacturing in China
Authors: Wang Xu , Han Liyan , Yin Libo
Published: December 2016

In this study, we analyze the environmental efficiency performance and its determinants of 29 manufacturing industries in China from 2006 to 2011 by employing a two-stage DEA (data envelopment analysis)-Tobit model. For providing comparative and robust evidence, the 29 manufacturing industries are classified into three groups based on the pollution intensity. In the first stage, a SBM (slacks-based measure)-DEA model is applied to assess economic efficiency and environmental efficiency scores to illustrate the effects of the environmental factors, while taking into consideration the undesirable output. In the second stage, utilizing these calculated environmental efficiency scores as dependent variables, we employ a Tobit regression model to study the determinants of the environmental efficiency by selecting three independent variables including the industry scale, the openness degree and the energy structure. It turns out that the environmental factors have a positive effect on the lightly polluted industries and a negative effect on the moderately polluted industries, the heavily polluted industries, and the overall industries, while the openness degree, the industry scale, and the energy structure can be effective measures to improve environmental efficiency. Based on these findings, we propose policy measures to enhance the environmental efficiency of manufacturing in China.
Variations of Growth and Toxin Yield in Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii under Different Phosphorus Concentrations
Authors: Yang Yiming , Jiang Yongguang , Li Xiaochuang , Li Hua , Chen Youxin , Xie Jinlin , Cai Fangfang , Li Renhui
Published: December 2016

The bloom-forming cyanobacteria, Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii, is a producer of the cytotoxic cylindrospermopsin (CYN). In this study, the growth, toxin yield, and expression of CYN biosynthesis genes of C. raciborskii were examined under varying phosphorus (P) concentrations. The results show the cell number at 0.00 and 0.01 mg·L−1 P was significantly lower than that at higher P concentrations (≥0.5 mg·L−1). The chlorophyll a content, filament length, heterocyst, and akinete numbers at P ≤ 0.05 mg·L−1 were also significantly reduced. The intracellular and extracellular CYN concentrations and the extracellular proportions increased during the culture period, and larger values were observed at higher P concentrations. Total CYN content reached 45.34–63.83 fg·cell−1 and extracellular CYN proportion reached 11.49%–20.44% at the stationary growth phase. A significantly positive correlation was observed between CYN production and cell growth rate. Three cyr genes were expressed constantly even at P-deficient conditions. The transcription of cyr genes at P-replete conditions or after P supplementation increased from 1.18-fold to 8.33-fold. In conclusion, C. raciborskii may rapidly reorganize metabolic processes as an adaptive response to environmental P fluctuations. CYN production and cyr gene expression were constitutive metabolic processes in toxic C. raciborskii.
Fouling Communities of Two Accidental Artificial Reefs (Modern Shipwrecks) in Cyprus (Levantine Sea)
Authors: Jimenez Carlos , Hadjioannou Louis , Petrou Antonis , Andreou Vasilis , Georgiou Andreas
Published: December 2016

Artificial reefs are considered one of the alternative methods in fisheries management, used in order to enhance stocks and marine biodiversity in general. A number of biotic and abiotic parameters influence the fouling communities’ formation on artificial reefs through complex interactions. In order to understand how epibiotic or fouling communities progress through time, it is important to study these communities in mature artificial reefs, especially those that have been around for many decades, or in some cases, millennia. This study was conducted on the coral and other fouling organisms of two accidental artificial reefs (40 to 70 year-old shipwrecks) in Cyprus (Levantine Sea). The thermal and nutrient annual regime of the study sites were characterized by processing satellite data. The results indicate that the wrecks are normally under warm and oligotrophic conditions. Percentage coverage of corals and other organisms on the wrecks was calculated (image-analysis software) on photos taken in 2010 (two wrecks) and again in 2016 (one wreck) of the fouling communities. Sponges were the organisms with the highest percent cover (~27%) at the two wrecks. Four scleractinian coral species were found (7%–19% total coral cover). The oldest wreck, which has well-developed coral communities, was revisited during fieldwork in a near-by area in 2016. Only two major benthic categories (dead coral and macro algae) changed significantly between sampling periods. Given the actual policies to sink wrecks to create artificial reefs and the diverse environmental conditions in different areas that will inevitably influence fouling, it is important to carry out studies relating to mature artificial reefs/wrecks in order to be able to assess the ecological effectiveness of longstanding artificial reefs.