bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The UNCLOS Dispute Settlement System: What Role Can It Play in Resolving Maritime Disputes in Asia?
Authors: NGUYEN Lan Ngoc
Published: January 2017

Asia is currently the scene of some of the most high-profile maritime disputes in the world. Even though the majority of states in Asia are parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea [UNCLOS], its dispute settlement system has only been utilized in a handful of cases. Given that negotiations have brought about limited results in easing many of the tensions, it is worth asking whether the UNCLOS dispute settlement system can play a role in the resolution of maritime disputes in Asia. This paper, based on a review of the disputes before UNCLOS Tribunals, as well the advantages and limitations of the system, argues that the UNCLOS dispute settlement system can make meaningful contributions to resolving thorny disputes between Asian states. It does so by providing a solution to the disputes brought before them, clarifying the legal framework for the conduct of the parties and facilitating co-operation amongst countries in the region.
White House Urges Future Science and Technology Priorities
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: January 2017

Memos from the departing Obama administration specify science and technology frontiers for investment by President-elect Donald Trump and Congress.
CRB3 regulates contact inhibition by activating the Hippo pathway in mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Mao Xiaona , Li Pingping , Wang Yaochun , Liang Zheyong , Liu Jie , Li Juan , Jiang Yina , Bao Gang , Li Lei , Zhu Bofeng , Ren Yu , Zhao Xinhan , Zhang Jianmin , Liu Yu , Yang Jin , Liu Peijun
Published: January 2017

The loss of contact inhibition is a hallmark of cancer cells. The Hippo pathway has recently been shown to be an important regulator of contact inhibition, and the cell apical polarity determinant protein CRB3 has been suggested to be involved in Hippo signalling. However, whether CRB3 regulates contact inhibition in mammary cells remains unclear, and the underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated. As shown in the present study, CRB3 decreases cell proliferation, promotes apoptosis, and enhances the formation of tight and adherens junctions. Furthermore, we report for the first time that CRB3 acts as an upstream regulator of the Hippo pathway to regulate contact inhibition by recruiting other Hippo molecules, such as Kibra and/or FRMD6, in mammary epithelial cells. In addition, CRB3 inhibits tumour growth in vivo. Collectively, the present study increases our understanding of the Hippo pathway and provides an important theoretical basis for exploring new avenues for breast cancer treatment.
Altered sulcogyral patterns of orbitofrontal cortex in a large cohort of patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Isomura Shuichi , Hashimoto Ryota , Nakamura Motoaki , Hirano Yoji , Yamashita Fumio , Jimbo Shin , Yamamori Hidenaga , Fujimoto Michiko , Yasuda Yuka , Mears Ryan P. , Onitsuka Toshiaki
Published: January 2017

Abnormalities in prenatal brain development contribute to schizophrenia vulnerability. Orbitofrontal cortex sulcogyral patterns are largely determined during prenatal development, and four types of orbitofrontal cortex sulcogyral patterns have been classified in humans. Altered orbitofrontal cortex patterns have been reported in individuals with schizophrenia using magnetic resonance imaging; however, sample sizes of previous studies were small–medium effects for detection, and gender manifestation for orbitofrontal cortex sulcogyral patterns is unclear. The present study investigated orbitofrontal cortex patterns of 155 patients with schizophrenia and 375 healthy subjects. The orbitofrontal cortex sulcogyral pattern distributions of schizophrenia were significantly different compared with healthy subjects in the left hemisphere (χ2 = 14.55, p = 0.002). In female schizophrenia, post-hoc analyses revealed significantly decreased Type I expression (χ2 = 6.76, p = 0.009) and increased Type II expression (χ2 = 11.56, p = 0.001) in the left hemisphere. The present study suggested that female schizophrenia showed altered orbitofrontal cortex patterns in the left hemisphere, which may be related to neurodevelopmental abnormality.
Extreme mitochondrial variation in the Atlantic gall crab Opecarcinus hypostegus (Decapoda: Cryptochiridae) reveals adaptive genetic divergence over Agaricia coral hosts
Authors: van Tienderen Kaj M. , van der Meij Sancia E. T.
Published: January 2017

The effectiveness of migration in marine species exhibiting a pelagic larval stage is determined by various factors, such as ocean currents, pelagic larval stage duration and active habitat selection. Direct measurement of larval movements is difficult and, consequently, factors determining the gene flow patterns remain poorly understood for many species. Patterns of gene flow play a key role in maintaining genetic homogeneity in a species by dampening the effects of local adaptation. Coral-dwelling gall crabs (Cryptochiridae) are obligate symbionts of stony corals (Scleractinia). Preliminary data showed high genetic diversity on the COI gene for 19 Opecarcinus hypostegus specimens collected off Curaçao. In this study, an additional 176 specimens were sequenced and used to characterize the population structure along the leeward side of Curaçao. Extremely high COI genetic variation was observed, with 146 polymorphic sites and 187 unique haplotypes. To determine the cause of this high genetic diversity, various gene flow scenarios (geographical distance along the coast, genetic partitioning over depth, and genetic differentiation by coral host) were examined. Adaptive genetic divergence across Agariciidae host species is suggested to be the main cause for the observed high intra-specific variance, hypothesised as early signs of speciation in O. hypostegus.
TRIM22-Mediated Apoptosis is Associated with Bak Oligomerization in Monocytes
Authors: Chen Chi , Zhao DongYan , Fang Shu , Chen QiXing , Cheng BaoLi , Fang XiangMing , Shu Qiang
Published: January 2017

Monocyte apoptosis is a key mechanism that orchestrates host immune responses during sepsis. TRIM22 is constitutively expressed at high levels in monocytes and plays important roles in the antiviral response and inflammation. Overexpression of TRIM22 interferes with the clonogenic growth of monocytic cells, suggesting that TRIM22 may regulate monocyte survival. However, the effect of TRIM22 on monocyte apoptosis remains unknown. In the present report, lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-primed human peripheral blood monocytes expressing higher levels of TRIM22 were more sensitive to apoptosis. This phenomenon was also observed in TRIM22-overexpressing THP-1 monocytes and was associated with the activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, as well as the increased expression and oligomerization of the pro-apoptotic protein Bak. Similar expression patterns of TRIM22 and Bak were also observed in LPS-primed, apoptotic human peripheral blood monocytes. In addition, the deletion of either the RING domain or the SPRY domain of TRIM22 significantly attenuated TRIM22-mediated monocyte apoptosis and decreased Bak expression and oligomerization. Furthermore, in monocytes from septic patients, TRIM22 levels were down-regulated and positively correlated with Bak levels. Taken together, these results indicate that TRIM22 plays a critical role in monocyte apoptosis by regulating Bak oligomerization and may have a potential function in the pathogenesis of sepsis.
Nitrosative Stress-Induced Disruption of Baroreflex Neural Circuits in a Rat Model of Hepatic Encephalopathy: A DTI Study
Authors: Tsai Ching-Yi , Su Chia-Hao , Chan Julie Y. H. , Chan Samuel H. H.
Published: January 2017

The onset of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in liver failure is associated with high mortality; the underlying mechanism is undecided. Here we report that in an acute liver failure model employing intraperitoneal administration of thioacetamide in Sprague-Dawley rats, diffusion weighted imaging revealed a progressive reduction in apparent diffusion coefficient in the brain stem. Diffusion tensor imaging further showed that the connectivity between nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS), the terminal site of baroreceptor afferents in brain stem and rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), the origin of sympathetic innervation of blood vessels, was progressively disrupted until its disappearance, coincidental with the irreversible cessation of baroreflex-mediated sympathetic vasomotor tone signifying clinically the occurrence of brain death. In addition, superoxide, nitric oxide, peroxynitrite and ammonia levels in the NTS or RVLM were elevated, alongside swelling of astroctytes. A scavenger of peroxynitrite, but not an antioxidant, delivered intracisternally reversed all these events. We conclude that nitrosative stress because of augmented peroxynitrite related to accumulation of ammonia and swelling of astrocytes in the NTS or RVLM, leading to cytotoxic edema in the brain stem and severance of the NTS-RVLM connectivity, underpins the defunct baroreflex-mediated sympathetic vasomotor tone that accounts for the high mortality associated with HE.
X-ray Structure and Enzymatic Activity Profile of a Core Papain-like Protease of MERS Coronavirus with utility for structure-based drug design
Authors: Clasman Jozlyn R. , Báez-Santos Yahira M. , Mettelman Robert C. , O’Brien Amornrat , Baker Susan C. , Mesecar Andrew D.
Published: January 2017

Ubiquitin-like domain 2 (Ubl2) is immediately adjacent to the N-terminus of the papain-like protease (PLpro) domain in coronavirus polyproteins, and it may play a critical role in protease regulation and stability as well as in viral infection. However, our recent cellular studies reveal that removing the Ubl2 domain from MERS PLpro has no effect on its ability to process the viral polyprotein or act as an interferon antagonist, which involves deubiquitinating and deISGylating cellular proteins. Here, we test the hypothesis that the Ubl2 domain is not required for the catalytic function of MERS PLpro in vitro. The X-ray structure of MERS PLpro-∆Ubl2 was determined to 1.9 Å and compared to PLpro containing the N-terminal Ubl2 domain. While the structures were nearly identical, the PLpro-∆Ubl2 enzyme revealed the intact structure of the substrate-binding loop. Moreover, PLpro-∆Ubl2 catalysis against different substrates and a purported inhibitor revealed no differences in catalytic efficiency, substrate specificity, and inhibition. Further, no changes in thermal stability were observed between enzymes. We conclude that the catalytic core of MERS PLpro, i.e. without the Ubl2 domain, is sufficient for catalysis and stability in vitro with utility to evaluate potential inhibitors as a platform for structure-based drug design.
Significance of oxygen transport through aquaporins
Authors: Zwiazek Janusz J. , Xu Hao , Tan Xiangfeng , Navarro-Ródenas Alfonso , Morte Asunción
Published: January 2017

Aquaporins are membrane integral proteins responsible for the transmembrane transport of water and other small neutral molecules. Despite their well-acknowledged importance in water transport, their significance in gas transport processes remains unclear. Growing evidence points to the involvement of plant aquaporins in CO2 delivery for photosynthesis. The role of these channel proteins in the transport of O2 and other gases may also be more important than previously envisioned. In this study, we examined O2 permeability of various human, plant, and fungal aquaporins by co-expressing heterologous aquaporin and myoglobin in yeast. Two of the most promising O2-transporters (Homo sapiens AQP1 and Nicotiana tabacum PIP1;3) were confirmed to facilitate O2 transport in the spectrophotometric assay using yeast protoplasts. The over-expression of NtPIP1;3 in yeasts significantly increased their O2 uptake rates in suspension culture. In N. tabacum roots subjected to hypoxic hydroponic conditions, the transcript levels of the O2-transporting aquaporin NtPIP1;3 significantly increased after the seven-day hypoxia treatment, which was accompanied by the increase of ATP levels in the apical root segments. Our results suggest that the functional significance of aquaporin-mediated O2 transport and the possibility of controlling the rate of transmembrane O2 transport should be further explored.
A mucin-like peptide from Fasciola hepatica instructs dendritic cells with parasite specific Th1-polarizing activity
Authors: Noya Verónica , Brossard Natalie , Rodríguez Ernesto , Dergan-Dylon L. Sebastián , Carmona Carlos , Rabinovich Gabriel A. , Freire Teresa
Published: January 2017

Fasciolosis is a trematode zoonosis of interest in public health and cattle production. We report here the immunostimulatory effect of a 66 mer mucin-like peptide fromFasciola hepatica(Fhmuc), which synergizes with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to promote dendritic cell (DC) maturation, endowing these cells with Th1-polarizing capacity. Exposure of DCs to Fhmuc in presence of LPS induced enhanced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and expression of co-stimulatory molecules by DCs, promoting their T cell stimulatory capacity and selectively augmenting IFN-γ secretion by allogeneic T cells. Furthermore, exposure of DCs to Fhmuc augmented LPS-induced Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 expression on the cell surface. Finally, Fhmuc-conditioned DCs induced parasite specific-adaptive immunity with increased levels of IFN-γ secreted by splenocytes from vaccinated animals, and higher parasite-specific IgG antibodies. However, Fhmuc-treated DC conferred modest protection againstF. hepaticainfection highlighting the potent immuno-regulatory capacity of the parasite. In summary, this work highlights the capacity of a mucin-derived peptide fromF. hepaticato enhance LPS-maturation of DCs and induce parasite-specific immune responses with potential implications in vaccination and therapeutic strategies.
Glucose tolerance in mice exposed to light–dark stimulus patterns mirroring dayshift and rotating shift schedules
Authors: Figueiro Mariana G. , Radetsky Leora , Plitnick Barbara , Rea Mark S.
Published: January 2017

Glucose tolerance was measured in (nocturnal) mice exposed to light–dark stimulus patterns simulating those that (diurnal) humans would experience while working dayshift (DSS) and 2 rotating night shift patterns (1 rotating night shift per week [RSS1] and 3 rotating night shifts per week [RSS3]). Oral glucose tolerance tests were administered at the same time and light phase during the third week of each experimental session. In contrast to the RSS1 and RSS3 conditions, glucose levels reduced more quickly for the DSS condition. Glucose area-under-the-curve measured for the DSS condition was also significantly less than that for the RSS1 and RSS3 conditions. Circadian disruption for the 3 light–dark patterns was quantified using phasor magnitude based on the 24-h light–dark patterns and their associated activity–rest patterns. Circadian disruption for mice in the DSS condition was significantly less than that for the RSS1 and RSS3 conditions. This study extends previous studies showing that even 1 night of shift work decreases glucose tolerance and that circadian disruption is linked to glucose tolerance in mice.
Utility of neurological smears for intrasurgical brain cancer diagnostics and tumour cell percentage by DESI-MS
Authors: Pirro V. , Jarmusch A. K. , Alfaro C. M. , Hattab E. M. , Cohen-Gadol A. A. , Cooks R. Graham
Published: January 2017

Analysis of neurological smears by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) is an emerging diagnostic strategy for intraoperative consultation in brain tumor resection.
Oligomer formation of a tea polyphenol, EGCG, on its sensing molecule 67 kDa laminin receptor
Authors: Huang Yuhui , Sumida Mami , Kumazoe Motofumi , Sugihara Kaori , Suemasu Yumi , Yamada Shuhei , Yamashita Shuya , Miyakawa Jyunichi , Takahashi Takashi , Tanaka Hiroshi , Fujimura Yoshinori , Tachibana Hirofumi
Published: January 2017

Green tea polyphenol (−)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) has been attributed to the activation of its cell surface sensing receptor 67 kDa laminin receptor (67LR).
A multifunctional Schiff base fluorescence sensor for Hg2+, Cu2+ and Co2+ ions
Authors: Sie Yi-Wun , Wan Chin-Feng , Wu An-Tai
Published: January 2017

A multifunctional Schiff base fluorescence sensor (receptor L) was prepared and its metal ion sensing properties were investigated.
High-throughput metabolomics enables biomarker discovery in prostate cancer
Authors: Liang Qun , Liu Han , Xie Li-xiang , Li Xue , Zhang Ai-Hua
Published: January 2017

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the world.
Influence of electronic structure on visible light photocatalytic activity of nitrogen-doped TiO2
Authors: Kusano Daigo , Emori Masato , Sakama Hiroshi
Published: January 2017

N-doped TiO2 was synthesized by sol–gel method from precursor solutions with or without urea and post calcination in NH3 gas. Localized states associated with N were successfully found at 0.24 eV to 0.34 eV above valence band maximum in the band gap.
Construction and functional assessment of zein thin film incorporating spindle-like ZnO crystals
Authors: Cao Ying , Chen Ting-Ting , Wang Wei , Chen Meng , Wang Hua-Jie
Published: January 2017

Zein thin film incorporating spindle-like ZnO crystals could be prepared by a solution-casting technique. The active films exhibited well stability and long-term antibacterial activities, which were related with the loaded ZnO crystals.
A novel ionic liquid functionalized graphene oxide supported gold nanoparticle composite film for sensitive electrochemical detection of dopamine
Authors: Li Jianbo , Wang Yanhui , Sun Yuanling , Ding Chaofan , Lin Yanna , Sun Weiyan , Luo Chuannan
Published: January 2017

A simple and sensitive electrochemical sensor for detection of dopamine has been developed based on ionic liquid functionalized graphene oxide supported gold nanoparticles (GO-IL-AuNPs) coated onto a glassy carbon electrode.
Co-immobilization of 1-vinyl-3-octadecylimidazolium cations and p-styrenesulphonate anions on silica and their anti-interference performance for the adsorption of naphthols
Authors: Wang Zhike , Ye Cunling , Chen Lingyun , Wu Haili
Published: January 2017

Adsorptive removals of naphthols are often interfered by some coexisting anions of aqueous solutions.
Implemention of perfectly matched layer absorbing boundary condition for CN‐RPIM method
Authors: Zhu Hui , Gao Cheng , Chen Hailin , Yin Qin
Published: January 2017

In this Letter, the perfectly matched layer (PML) absorbing boundary condition is incorporated into the unconditionally stable radial point interpolation meshless method based on Crank–Nicolson radial point interpolation method scheme. By splitting field variables in the whole computational domain, all variables are defined in the support domain of nodes near PML boundary, and an implicit time‐stepping formulation is derived. Numerical experiment is implemented to demonstrate the performance of the implemented PML.
Power sharing in parallel inverters with different types of loads
Authors: Ketabi Abbas , Rajamand Sahba Sadat , Shahidehpour Mohammad
Published: January 2017

Microgrids are used widely in electric power systems for enhancing the power system operation in both grid‐connected and island modes. One of the main problems with microgrid operations in power systems is maintaining the microgrid voltage and frequency within permissible ranges and sharing microgrid loads among participating distribution generations (DGs) in an island mode. The droop control method will pose a degraded performance when feeder impedances of DGs are different. In this study, a new control method based on the virtual impedance and the compensating voltage is proposed and the simulation results show that this method combined with the droop control will offer a balanced power sharing among DGs with negligible voltage and frequency drops. Here both single‐bus and multi‐bus microgrids with distributed loads have been considered. The simulation results are based on the MATLAB Simulink which shows that the proposed method has a good load sharing performance among DGs with varying feeder impedances and droop gains.
Chiroptical properties photo-induced by femtosecond laser irradiation in silica glass
Authors: Desmarchelier R. , Lancry M. , Tian J. , Poumellec B.
Published: January 2017

We confirm that the irradiation of silica glass (achiral material) with a linear polarized Gaussian beam (achiral light) from a femtosecond laser can create chiroptical properties such as UV-Vis circular dichroism. This last result is surprising because crystalline silica exhibits optical rotation but no circular dichroism in the UV-Vis range. In this paper we show that ellipticity can be as high as 1400 mdeg at 400 nm, by controlling the laser irradiation configuration. In addition, we show that the non-reversible sample circular dichroism measurements are due to the fact that linear and circular optical properties do not have the same distribution in depth.
An asymmetric electrically conducting self-aligned graphene/polymer composite thin film for efficient electromagnetic interference shielding
Authors: Kumar Pradip , Kumar Asheesh , Cho Kie Yong , Das Tapas Kumar , Sudarsan V.
Published: January 2017

Here, we study the self-aligned asymmetric electrically conductive composite thin film prepared via casting of graphene oxide (GO)/poly (vinylidene-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) dispersion, followed by low temperature hydriodic acid reduction. The results showed that composite thin film revealed the high orientation of graphene sheets along the direction of film surface. However, graphene sheets are asymmetrically distributed along the film thickness direction in the composite film. Both sides of as prepared composite film showed different surface characteristics. The asymmetric surface properties of composite film induced distinction of surface resistivity response; top surface resistivity (21 Ohm) is ∼ 4 times higher than bottom surface resistivity (5 Ohm). This asymmetric highly electrically conducting composite film revealed efficient electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness of ∼ 30 dB. This study could be crucial for achieving aligned asymmetric composite thin film for high-performance EMI shielding radiation.
Enhanced universal absorption of graphene in a Salisbury screen
Authors: Ying Xiangxiao , Pu Yang , Luo Yi , Peng Hao , Li Zhe , Jiang Yadong , Xu Jimmy , Liu Zhijun
Published: January 2017

As an emerging optoelectronic material, graphene's universal absorption of about 2.3% over a broad frequency range from infrared to visible, as determined by its interband transition, presents both a new opportunity and a limitation. Here we report on a multifold enhancement of the absorption using a simple strategy, often referred to as the Salisbury screen. It consists of a graphene sheet on top of a SiO2 dielectric layer backed with a copper metallic reflector. For a monolayer graphene, peak absorptions of 9% at near normal incidence and 40% at near grazing angle are experimentally demonstrated in the near-infrared region, in good agreement with calculations using transfer matrix method. The resultant absorption enhancement suggests a great potential for graphene to be used in infrared optoelectronic components.
Negative anisotropic magnetoresistance resulting from minority spin transport in NixFe4−xN (x = 1 and 3) epitaxial films
Authors: Takata Fumiya , Kabara Kazuki , Ito Keita , Tsunoda Masakiyo , Suemasu Takashi
Published: January 2017

We grew 50 nm-thick NixFe4−xN (x = 1 and 3) epitaxial films on a SrTiO3(001) single-crystal substrate by molecular beam epitaxy and measured their anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) ratios rAMR in the temperature range of 5–300 K with current directions set along either NixFe4−xN [100] or [110]. A negative rAMR was obtained up to 200 K or higher. Their magnitude |rAMR| increased with decreasing temperature. From the negative AMR effect and the negative spin-polarization of density of states for NixFe4−xN at the Fermi level, it can be stated that the minority spin transport is dominant in NixFe4−xN, similar to Fe4N and Co3FeN. The rAMR depends on the current direction that arises from the current direction dependence of s-d scattering. In the case of Ni3FeN, the rAMR decreased to nearly zero at 260 K. This temperature agreed well with the Curie temperature determined from the temperature dependence of magnetization. The AMR curves were reproduced well by using both cos2ϕ and cos4ϕ components below 100 K, whereas a cos2ϕ component was enough to fit those obtained above 100 K. It is assumed that the tetragonal crystal field was enhanced at low temperatures (<100 K) similar to Fe4N (<50 K).
Optimal phase synchronization in networks of phase-coherent chaotic oscillators
Authors: Skardal P. S. , Sevilla-Escoboza R. , Vera-Ávila V. P. , Buldú J. M.
Published: January 2017

We investigate the existence of an optimal interplay between the natural frequencies of a group of chaotic oscillators and the topological properties of the network they are embedded in. We identify the conditions for achieving phase synchronization in the most effective way, i.e., with the lowest possible coupling strength. Specifically, we show by means of numerical and experimental results that it is possible to define a synchrony alignment function J(ω,L) linking the natural frequencies ωi of a set of non-identical phase-coherent chaotic oscillators with the topology of the Laplacian matrix L, the latter accounting for the specific organization of the network of interactions between oscillators. We use the classical Rössler system to show that the synchrony alignment function obtained for phase oscillators can be extended to phase-coherent chaotic systems. Finally, we carry out a series of experiments with nonlinear electronic circuits to show the robustness of the theoretical predictions despite the intrinsic noise and parameter mismatch of the electronic components.
A designing principle for low dark-current strained layer superlattices
Authors: Krishnamurthy S. , Yu Zhi-Gang
Published: January 2017

A systematic study of native point defect states is carried out to understand the origin of gap states in strained layer superlattices. Using a combination of first principles Hamiltonian, tight-binding Hamiltonian, and Green's function approach, we calculate the native point defect states in bulk InAs, bulk GaSb, and ten InAs-GaSb strained layer superlattices. We observe that the defects in strained layer superlattices located away from the interface create fewer mid gap states if the constituent bulk materials do not have defect states in that energy interval. This can be used as a design principle to shift the superlattice band gap and reduce or eliminate the mid-gap states.
Competing weak localization and weak antilocalization in amorphous indium–gallium–zinc-oxide thin-film transistors
Authors: Wang Wei-Hsiang , Lyu Syue-Ru , Heredia Elica , Liu Shu-Hao , Jiang Pei-hsun , Liao Po-Yung , Chang Ting-Chang , Chen Hua-Mao
Published: January 2017

We have investigated the gate-voltage dependence and the temperature dependence of the magnetoconductivity of amorphous indium–gallium–zinc-oxide thin-film transistors. A weak-localization feature is observed at small magnetic fields on top of an overall negative magnetoconductivity at higher fields. An intriguing controllable competition between weak localization and weak antilocalization is observed by tuning the gate voltage or by varying the temperature. Our findings reflect controllable quantum interference competition in the electron systems in amorphous indium–gallium–zinc-oxide thin-film transistors.
Topologically insulating states in ternary transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Lin Xianqing , Ni Jun
Published: January 2017

The topological and electronic properties of monolayered monoclinic transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) alloys (1T′-M1−xNxX2 with M, N = Cr, Mo, W and X = S, Se) have been studied through calculations based on the projected Wannier functions obtained from first-principles calculations. We predict that the ternary compounds 1T′-Mo1−xCrxS2 with x up to 7/12 and all 1T′-Mo1−xWxSe2 host topologically insulating states with band gaps comparable to the pure systems. For Cr contained alloys, the mechanism of sign changing of Berry curvature is proposed to explain the trivial band topology of some configurations. The predicted topologically insulating ternary TMDs may be promising candidates for future realization of topological devices.
Traduction économique français-espagnol et espagnol-français
Authors: Gallego-Hernández Daniel
Published: January 2017

Cet article se propose d’identifier les textes et les domaines que les traducteurs professionnels espagnol-français et français-espagnol traduisent habituellement. Tout d’abord, nous examinons brièvement quelques travaux portant sur la traduction professionnelle ainsi que des études relatives à la traduction économique en espagnol et en français. Bien que ces travaux nous permettent de savoir, par exemple, quels documents ou domaines certains formateurs de traducteurs proposent à leurs étudiants de traduction économique, ou la place qu’occupe ce type de traduction aux côtés d’autres spécialités comme la traduction juridique, la traduction technique ou la traduction littéraire, ils ne nous permettent cependant pas de discerner la réalité professionnelle du marché espagnol. Après avoir présenté l’enquête que nous avons menée afin de connaître de plus près la réalité de la traduction économique en français et en espagnol, nous décrivons le profil des traducteurs ayant répondu à l’enquête pour identifier finalement les textes et les domaines le plus fréquemment traduits. Les résultats montrent des différences quant aux textes et aux domaines, et aussi quant aux combinaisons linguistiques. Ainsi, ces résultats pourront non seulement aider les formateurs de traducteurs économiques à concevoir leurs programmes ou modules spécialisés mais aussi à poursuivre la recherche sur l’analyse contrastive de genres textuels de l’économie.
An extension of the comparative sociolinguistics approach for sociosyntax
Authors: Comeau Philip
Published: January 2017

This paper integrates aspects of both generative theory and variationist sociolinguistics. To compare the structure of two varieties of French (Acadian French and Laurentian French), I adapt the comparative sociolinguistics approach to compare the syntactic structure of these varieties. Specifically, I focus on the effects ofasinglelinguisticconstraintacross multiple sociolinguistic variables. I argue that such a comparison provides insights into the underlying grammatical structures of the varieties under comparison, differences that may have remained hidden otherwise. To illustrate the approach, I focus on a single constraint, sentential polarity, and I analyze its effects on two sociolinguistic variables, yes/no questions and future temporal reference. Results show that the polarity constraint is operative in Laurentian French for both variables, but inoperative in Acadian French. To account for this difference, I argue that Laurentian French negative structures involve a negative head above the tense phrase while Acadian French does not.
Defective ATG16L1-mediated removal of IRE1α drives Crohn’s disease–like ileitis
Authors: Tschurtschenthaler Markus , Adolph Timon E. , Ashcroft Jonathan W. , Niederreiter Lukas , Bharti Richa , Saveljeva Svetlana , Bhattacharyya Joya , Flak Magdalena B. , Shih David Q. , Fuhler Gwenny M. , Parkes Miles , Kohno Kenji , Iwawaki Takao , Janneke van der Woude C. , Harding Heather P. , Smith Andrew M. , Peppelenbosch Maikel P. , Targan Stephan R. , Ron David , Rosenstiel Philip , Blumberg Richard S. , Kaser Arthur
Published: January 2017

ATG16L1T300A, a major risk polymorphism in Crohn’s disease (CD), causes impaired autophagy, but it has remained unclear how this predisposes to CD. In this study, we report that mice with Atg16l1 deletion in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) spontaneously develop transmural ileitis phenocopying ileal CD in an age-dependent manner, driven by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress sensor IRE1α. IRE1α accumulates in Paneth cells of Atg16l1ΔIEC mice, and humans homozygous for ATG16L1T300A exhibit a corresponding increase of IRE1α in intestinal epithelial crypts. In contrast to a protective role of the IRE1β isoform, hyperactivated IRE1α also drives a similar ileitis developing earlier in life in Atg16l1;Xbp1ΔIEC mice, in which ER stress is induced by deletion of the unfolded protein response transcription factor XBP1. The selective autophagy receptor optineurin interacts with IRE1α, and optineurin deficiency amplifies IRE1α levels during ER stress. Furthermore, although dysbiosis of the ileal microbiota is present in Atg16l1;Xbp1ΔIEC mice as predicted from impaired Paneth cell antimicrobial function, such structural alteration of the microbiota does not trigger ileitis but, rather, aggravates dextran sodium sulfate–induced colitis. Hence, we conclude that defective autophagy in IECs may predispose to CD ileitis via impaired clearance of IRE1α aggregates during ER stress at this site.
Axial quasi-static crushing behaviour of cylindrical woven kenaf fiber reinforced composites
Authors: Abdullah Noorhaslinda , Ismail Al Emran
Published: January 2017

This paper presents the crushing responses of cylindrical woven kenaf fibre reinforced composites under quasi-static compression. Kenaf fiber in the form of yarn is weaved into woven mat. It is then submerged into polyester bath before it is wrapped into a cylindrical shape. There are two important parameters investigated such as number of layers and fiber orientations. According to the experimental results, as expected increasing the number of layers increased the energy absorption performances. However, increasing the fibre orientations from 0o to 45o capable to decrease the energy absorption capability. It is also observed that during progressive collapses, localized buckling is the dominant failure mechanism where there is no large composite fragmentation occurred.
Mitogen-induced distinct epialleles are phosphorylated at either H3S10 or H3S28, depending on H3K27 acetylation
Authors: Khan Dilshad H. , Healy Shannon , He Shihua , Lichtensztejn Daniel , Klewes Ludger , Sharma Kiran L. , Lau Veronica , Mai Sabine , Delcuve Geneviève P. , Davie James R.
Published: January 2017

Stimulation of the MAPK pathway results in mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase 1/2 (MSK1/2)-catalyzed phosphorylation of histone H3 at serine 10 or 28 and expression of immediate-early (IE) genes. In 10T1/2 mouse fibroblasts, phosphorylation of H3S10 and H3S28 occurs on different H3 molecules and in different nuclear regions. Similarly, we show that mitogen-induced H3S10 and H3S28 phosphorylation occurs in separate pools in human primary fibroblasts. High-resolution imaging studies on both cell types reveal that H3S10 and H3S28 phosphorylation events can be induced in a single cell but on different alleles, giving rise to H3S10ph and H3S28ph epialleles. Coimmunoprecipitation and inhibition studies demonstrate that CBP/p300-mediated H3K27 acetylation is required for MSK1/2 to phosphorylate S28. Although the K9ac and S10ph marks coexist on H3, S10 phosphorylation is not dependent on K9 acetylation by PCAF. We propose that random targeting of H3S10 or H3S28 results from the stochastic acetylation of H3 by CBP/p300 or PCAF, a process comparable to transcriptional bursting causing temporary allelic imbalance. In 10T1/2 cells expressing Jun, at least two of three alleles per cell were induced, a sign of high expression level. The redundant roles of H3S10ph and H3S28ph might enable rapid and efficient IE gene induction.
Mechanism of nuclear movements in a multinucleated cell
Authors: Gibeaux Romain , Politi Antonio Z. , Philippsen Peter , Nédélec François
Published: January 2017

Multinucleated cells are important in many organisms, but the mechanisms governing the movements of nuclei sharing a common cytoplasm are not understood. In the hyphae of the plant pathogenic fungus Ashbya gossypii, nuclei move back and forth, occasionally bypassing each other, preventing the formation of nuclear clusters. This is essential for genetic stability. These movements depend on cytoplasmic microtubules emanating from the nuclei that are pulled by dynein motors anchored at the cortex. Using three-dimensional stochastic simulations with parameters constrained by the literature, we predict the cortical anchor density from the characteristics of nuclear movements. The model accounts for the complex nuclear movements seen in vivo, using a minimal set of experimentally determined ingredients. Of interest, these ingredients power the oscillations of the anaphase spindle in budding yeast, but in A. gossypii, this system is not restricted to a specific nuclear cycle stage, possibly as a result of adaptation to hyphal growth and multinuclearity.
LN2, CD10, and Ezrin Do Not Distinguish Between Atypical Fibroxanthoma and Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma or Predict Clinical Outcome
Authors: Hanlon Allison , Stasko Thomas , Christiansen Dan , Cyrus Nika , Galan Anjela
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND

Atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) is a rare cutaneous spindled cell neoplasm. For both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, it is important to distinguish AFX from other poorly differentiated tumors, including undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS).

OBJECTIVE

The authors aimed to identify the clinical, histologic, and immunohistochemical expression of LN2, ezrin, and CD10 in AFX and UPS tumors.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

The authors retrospectively examined the charts of patients with AFX and UPS treated with Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) at 2 academic institutions. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and clinical course data were collected. Immunohistochemical stains were performed on primary and recurrent AFX and UPS tumors with monoclonal antibodies against the B-cell marker LN2 (CD74), CD10, and ezrin.

RESULTS

In the series of 169 patients with AFX included in this study, local recurrence was rare at 3%. In contrast, the seven patients with UPS had an aggressive clinical course with 1 local recurrence and 2 distant metastases. Immunohistochemistry staining for ezrin, LN2, and CD10 were similar in AFX and UPS tumors.

CONCLUSION

AFX can be treated with MMS with rare instances of recurrence. Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma has a more aggressive clinical course with increased risk for recurrence and metastasis. Staining with ezrin, LN2, and CD10 did not differentiate AFX or UPS tumors.
The Effect of Waxing Versus Shaving on the Efficacy of Laser Hair Removal
Authors: Al-Haddab Mohammed , Al-Khawajah Nour , Al-Ala'a Amal , Al-Majed Hadeel , Al-Shamlan Yafa , Al-Abdely Maymonah
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND

Excessive hair is undesirable and represents both a social and emotional burden, especially among females. Laser hair removal (LHR) has gained popularity in the past 2 decades. It is a common practice to instruct patients not to pluck or wax their hair before undergoing LHR; only shaving is allowed to improve the efficacy of the LHR.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the percentage of hair reduction in preshaved versus prewax epilated axillae after LHR in healthy adult Saudi females.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This study is a quantitative experimental pilot clinical trial. Twenty female volunteers were enrolled into this study; all underwent 3 laser sessions using a long-pulsed alexandrite laser. Their left axilla was prewaxed and right axilla was preshaved immediately before laser treatment. Hair was counted manually before and 6 months after the third laser session.

RESULTS

The right and left axillae both showed significant hair reduction, between the first session and the hair count 6 months after the third laser session. However, there was no statistically significant difference between these 2 means (p = .44).

CONCLUSION

There is no statistical difference in hair reduction after LHR whether the area is preshaved or prewax epilated.
CHARACTERISTICS OF EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE REMNANT EDGE BY OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY AFTER PARS PLANA VITRECTOMY
Authors: Gaber Raouf , You Qi Sheng , Muftuoglu Ilkay Kilic , Alam Mostafa , Tsai Frank F. , Mendoza Nadia , Freeman William R.
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate the incidence, characteristics, and the progression of epiretinal membrane (ERM) remnant edge seen by optical coherence tomography after ERM peeling.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted for 86 eyes of 85 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with ERM and underwent pars plana vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane peeling between 2013 and 2014. Data collected and analyzed included age, gender, preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, use of indocyanine green dye to stain internal limiting membrane, tamponade used after vitrectomy, ERM edge boundaries, presence of cystoid macular edema, and central foveal thickness.

Results:

An ERM remnant edge was detected in 33/86 study eyes (38.4%) at the first postoperative optical coherence tomography scan. Compared with those without an ERM remnant, patients with an ERM remnant after surgery were significantly older at baseline and had a higher incidence of ERM recurrence at their last visit. They were not significantly different in terms of gender, preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, reduction of central foveal thickness from baseline, proportion of eyes with preoperative ERM elevation on optical coherence tomography, presence of macular edema before surgery, intraoperative use of indocyanine green staining for ILM peeling, or tamponade used. Based on the edge morphology, we classified the ERM remnant into three types: Type 1 was flat and blended with the retina (14/33 eyes, 42.4%), Type 2 was flat but stepped (17/33 eyes, 51.5%), and Type 3 was elevated (2/33 eyes, 6.0%). A significantly higher risk of ERM recurrence was seen in Type 2 and Type 3 ERM remnants (75% and 100%, respectively) than Type 1 ERM remnants (10%).

Conclusion:

An ERM remnant edge was detected by optical coherence tomography after ERM peeling in 38.4% of eyes. The presence of a postoperative ERM edge was associated with a higher risk of ERM recurrence, particularly in Type 2 and Type 3 ERM remnants.
Scanning Electron Microscope Analysis of Stromal Surface Regularity in DSAEK Using Manual or Automated Microkeratomes or DMEK
Authors: Villarrubia Alberto , García Enrique , Cano-Ortiz Antonio , Membrillo Alberto , Sabala Antoni , Celis Javier , Salvador Antoni , Solana Jorge , Arango Alexandra , Sassot Irene
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To analyze differences in the stromal bed according to the method used to obtain the disc for endothelial transplant with 1) an automated microkeratome for Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK), 2) homogeneous dissection of Descemet membrane (Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty [DMEK]), or 3) a manual microkeratome used for DSAEK.

Methods:

We analyzed the stromal bed of 25 consecutive corneas used for endothelial transplantation, divided into 3 groups: 1) 11 samples cut with an automated microkeratome, 2) 5 samples used for DMEK, 3) 9 samples cut with a manual microkeratome. A scanning electron microscope was used to obtain an image of the center of the stromal bed. The irregularity index of the surface complementary to the stromal surface of the disc obtained for grafting was calculated with the Canny algorithm (0: completely smooth; 1: completely irregular).

Results:

At all thresholds studied (20, 30, 50, and 70), the mean irregularity index for group C (35.2, 24.4, 13.7, and 8.8, respectively) was higher than that of group A (26.2, 14.8, 6.7, and 4.0, respectively), which in turn was higher than that of group B (7.0, 4.2, 2.4, and 1.8, respectively). Differences were statistically significant among all groups and for all thresholds.

Conclusions:

Irregularity of the stromal bed after any dissection can be quantified using the Canny method. The use of an automated microkeratome for DSAEK reduces irregularity and helps obtain a surface more similar to that obtained with DMEK than with a manual microkeratome.
Factors Affecting the Ability of People With Diabetes to Avoid Hypoglycemia
Authors: Wu Fei-Ling , Wu En-Chang , Chang Yue-Cune , Hu Wen-Yu , Juang Jyuhn-Huarng , Yeh Mei Chang
Published: January 2017

Background:

Hypoglycemia is recognized as a limiting factor in diabetes management. Fear of experiencing hypoglycemia may lead to lower quality of life, impaired glycemic control, and emotional distress, all of which impair the ability of patients to self-manage their diabetes effectively. Problem solving is central to diabetes self-management and may help patients achieve effective self-care of their disease.

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of people with diabetes to avoid hypoglycemia and to explore associated factors.

Methods:

A cross-sectional, descriptive design was used for the study. Data were collected using a demographic and disease characteristics datasheet, the Hypoglycemic Problem Solving Scale, and the Disease-Associated Negative Mood Scale.

Results:

Three hundred thirteen participants were recruited, with a mean age of 55.49 years. The average item score for the questions on hypoglycemic problem-solving ability was 2.43 (SD = 0.75). In comparing Hypoglycemic Problem Solving Scale subscales, participants scored highest on the problem orientation subscales and lowest on the problem-solving skills subscales. Multiple regression analysis revealed that being younger and unmarried and having a higher level of education, a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes, and a lower negative mood score were each significantly associated with greater problem-solving ability as regards hypoglycemic events.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice:

We suggest that patients with diabetes, especially those who are older or with lower levels of education, receive disease-related psychological interventions and that healthcare professionals teach problem-solving abilities in conjunction with hypoglycemia management.
The number of patients with chronic hepatitis C in times of new therapy options: a retrospective observational study on German health insurance funds data
Authors: Thönnes Stefanie , Friedel Heiko , Fröhlich Heike
Published: January 2017

Aim/Objectives/Background

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) virus infection is a leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality. In Germany, as in many other countries, there is a lack of comprehensive epidemiological data. Routine data from sickness funds can support the estimation of the true prevalence and incidence of CHC.

Methods

In this article, the results of annual and quarterly analyses of prevalence and incidence for the years 2007–2013 are presented using data of several German sickness funds.

Results

Overall, the prevalence rate remained relatively stable at 0.2%, which is lower than the general assumption for Germany of 0.3%.

Conclusion

We found that despite the introduction of the breakthrough designated triple therapies with telaprevir or boceprevir in 2011, there was no increase of prevalence or incidence between 2010 and 2011.