bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
NDR1 protein kinase promotes IL‐17‐ and TNF‐α‐mediated inflammation by competitively binding TRAF3
Authors: Ma Chunmei , Lin Wenlong , Liu Zhiyong , Tang Wei , Gautam Rahul , Li Hui , Qian Youcun , Huang He , Wang Xiaojian 
Published: February 2017

AbstractInterleukin 17 (IL‐17) is an important inducer of tissue inflammation and is involved in numerous autoimmune diseases. However, how its signal transduction is regulated is not well understood. Here, we report that nuclear Dbf2‐related kinase 1 (NDR1) functions as a positive regulator of IL‐17 signal transduction and IL‐17‐induced inflammation. NDR1 deficiency or knockdown inhibits the IL‐17‐induced phosphorylation of p38, ERK1/2, and p65 and the expression of chemokines and cytokines, whereas the overexpression of NDR1 promotes IL‐17‐induced signaling independent of its kinase activity. Mechanistically, NDR1 interacts with TRAF3 and prevents its binding to IL‐17R, which promotes the formation of an IL‐17R‐Act1‐TRAF6 complex and downstream signaling. Consistent with this, IL‐17‐induced inflammation is significantly reduced in NDR1‐deficient mice, and NDR1 deficiency significantly protects mice from MOG‐induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS)‐induced colitis likely by its inhibition of IL‐17‐mediated signaling pathway. NDR1 expression is increased in the colons of ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. Taken together, these findings suggest that NDR1 is involved in the development of autoimmune diseases.
MYC‐driven inhibition of the glutamate‐cysteine ligase promotes glutathione depletion in liver cancer
Authors: Anderton Brittany , Camarda Roman , Balakrishnan Sanjeev , Balakrishnan Asha , Kohnz Rebecca A , Lim Lionel , Evason Kimberley J , Momcilovic Olga , Kruttwig Klaus , Huang Qiang , Xu Guowang , Nomura Daniel K , Goga Andrei 
Published: February 2017

AbstractHow MYC reprograms metabolism in primary tumors remains poorly understood. Using integrated gene expression and metabolite profiling, we identify six pathways that are coordinately deregulated in primary MYC‐driven liver tumors: glutathione metabolism; glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism; aminoacyl‐tRNA biosynthesis; cysteine and methionine metabolism; ABC transporters; and mineral absorption. We then focus our attention on glutathione (GSH) and glutathione disulfide (GSSG), as they are markedly decreased in MYC‐driven tumors. We find that fewer glutamine‐derived carbons are incorporated into GSH in tumor tissue relative to non‐tumor tissue. Expression of GCLC, the rate‐limiting enzyme of GSH synthesis, is attenuated by the MYC‐induced microRNA miR‐18a. Inhibition of miR‐18a in vivo leads to increased GCLC protein expression and GSH abundance in tumor tissue. Finally, MYC‐driven liver tumors exhibit increased sensitivity to acute oxidative stress. In summary, MYC‐dependent attenuation of GCLC by miR‐18a contributes to GSH depletion in vivo, and low GSH corresponds with increased sensitivity to oxidative stress in tumors. Our results identify new metabolic pathways deregulated in primary MYC tumors and implicate a role for MYC in regulating a major antioxidant pathway downstream of glutamine.
Germline variants in familial pituitary tumour syndrome genes are common in young patients and families with additional endocrine tumours
Authors: De Sousa Sunita M C , McCabe Mark J , Wu Kathy , Roscioli Tony , Gayevskiy Velimir , Brook Katelyn , Rawlings Lesley , Scott Hamish S , Thompson Tanya J , Earls Peter , Gill Anthony J , Cowley Mark J , Dinger Marcel E , McCormack Ann I 
Published: February 2017

Objective
Familial pituitary tumour syndromes (FPTS) account for 5% of pituitary adenomas. Multi-gene analysis via next-generation sequencing (NGS) may unveil greater prevalence and inform clinical care. We aimed to identify germline variants in selected patients with pituitary adenomas using a targeted NGS panel.

Design
We undertook a nationwide cross-sectional study of patients with pituitary adenomas with onset ≤40 years of age and/or other personal/family history of endocrine neoplasia. A custom NGS panel was performed on germline DNA to interrogate eight FPTS genes. Genome data were analysed via a custom bioinformatic pipeline, and validation was performed by Sanger sequencing. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) was performed in cases with heightened suspicion for MEN1, CDKN1B and AIP mutations. The main outcomes were frequency and pathogenicity of rare variants in AIP, CDKN1B, MEN1, PRKAR1A, SDHA, SDHB, SDHC and SDHD.

Results
Forty-four patients with pituitary tumours, 14 of whom had a personal history of other endocrine tumours and/or a family history of pituitary or other endocrine tumours, were referred from endocrine tertiary-referral centres across Australia. Eleven patients (25%) had a rare variant across the eight FPTS genes tested: AIP (p.A299V, p.R106C, p.F269F, p.R304X, p.K156K, p.R271W), MEN1 (p.R176Q), SDHB (p.A2V, p.S8S), SDHC (p.E110Q) and SDHD (p.G12S), with two patients harbouring dual variants. Variants were classified as pathogenic or of uncertain significance in 9/44 patients (20%). No deletions/duplications were identified in MEN1, CDKN1B or AIP.

Conclusions
A high yield of rare variants in genes implicated in FPTS can be found in selected patients using an NGS panel. It may also identify individuals harbouring more than one rare variant.
Incidence and mortality of kidney cancer and its relationship with HDI (Human Development Index) in the world in 2012
Authors: Mohammadian Maryam , Pakzad Reza , Towhidi Farhad , Makhsosi Behnam Reza , Ahmadi Abbas , Salehiniya Hamid 
Published: February 2017

Background and aims. Kidney cancer is among the cancers that have the highest growth rate in all age and racial groups in the world and is as the most deadly type of urinary tract cancer. Since awareness about this cancer incidence status and mortality is essential for better planning, this study aimed to investigate the incidence and mortality rate of kidney cancer and its relationship with the development index in the world in 2012.Method. This study was an ecological study conducted based on GLOBOCAN project of the World Health Organization (WHO) for the countries in the world. The correlation between Standardized Incidence Rates (SIRs) and Standardized Mortality Rates (SMRs) of kidney cancer with HDI and its components was assessed using SPSS18.Results. In total, 337,860 incidence cases (213,924 were men and 123,936 women) and 143,406 deaths (90,802 cases in men and 52,604 in women) of kidney cancer were recorded in 2012. A positive correlation of 0.731 was seen between SIR of kidney cancer and HDI (p≤0.001). Also, a negative correlation of 0.627was seen between SMR of kidney cancer and HDI (p≤0.001). Conclusion. The incidence and mortality rate of kidney cancer is higher in developed countries. A significant positive correlation has been seen between the standardized incidence and mortality rate of kidney cancer with the Human Development Index and its components. We need more studies to examine variation in incidence and mortality of kidney cancer and its related factors in the world.
NICU-based Interventions To Reduce Maternal Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Mendelson Tamar , Cluxton-Keller Fallon , Vullo Genevieve C. , Tandon S. Darius , Noazin Sassan 
Published: February 2017

CONTEXT:
Parents whose infants are being treated in the NICU are at high risk for depression and anxiety, with negative implications for parenting and infant development.

OBJECTIVE:
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of NICU-based interventions to reduce maternal depressive or anxiety symptoms.

DATA SOURCES:
PubMed, Embase, PsychInfo, Cochrane, and CINAHL were searched for relevant studies. Reference lists from selected studies were reviewed.

STUDY SELECTION:
Inclusion criteria included randomized controlled design, a parent-focused intervention delivered in the NICU, valid maternal depressive or anxiety symptom measures at pre- and postintervention, and publication in a peer-reviewed journal in English.

DATA EXTRACTION:
Data extraction was conducted independently by 2 coders.

RESULTS:
Twelve studies met inclusion criteria for qualitative review; 2 were excluded from quantitative analyses for high risk of bias. Fixed- and random-effects models, with 7 eligible studies assessing depressive symptoms, indicated an effect of –0.16 (95% confidence interval [CI], –0.32 to –0.002; P &lt; .05) and, with 8 studies assessing anxiety symptoms, indicated an effect of –0.12 (95% CI, –0.29 to 0.05; P = .17). The subset of interventions using cognitive behavioral therapy significantly reduced depressive symptoms (effect, –0.44; 95% CI, –0.77 to –0.11; P = .01).

LIMITATIONS:
The small number and methodological shortcomings of studies limit conclusions regarding intervention effects.

CONCLUSIONS:
Combined intervention effects significantly reduced maternal depressive but not anxiety symptoms. The evidence is strongest for the impact of cognitive behavioral therapy interventions on maternal depressive symptoms.
Perspectives of Low Socioeconomic Status Mothers of Premature Infants
Authors: Enlow Elizabeth , Faherty Laura J. , Wallace-Keeshen Sara , Martin Ashley E , Shea Judy A. , Lorch Scott A. 
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
Transitioning premature infants from the NICU to home is a high-risk period with potential for compromised care. Parental stress is high, and families of low socioeconomic status may face additional challenges. Home visiting programs have been used to help this transition, with mixed success. We sought to understand the experiences of at-risk families during this transition to inform interventions.

METHODS:
Mothers of infants born at &lt;35 weeks’ gestation, meeting low socioeconomic status criteria, were interviewed by telephone 30 days after discharge to assess caregiver experiences of discharge and perceptions of home visitors (HVs). We generated salient themes by using grounded theory and the constant comparative method. Interviews were conducted until thematic saturation was achieved.

RESULTS:
Twenty-seven mothers completed interviews. Eighty-five percent were black, and 81% had Medicaid insurance. Concern about infants’ health and fragility was the primary theme identified, with mothers reporting substantial stress going from a highly monitored NICU to an unmonitored home. Issues with trust and informational consistency were mentioned frequently and could threaten mothers’ willingness to engage with providers. Strong family networks and determination compensated for limited economic resources, although many felt isolated. Mothers appreciated HVs’ ability to address infant health but preferred nurses over lay health workers.

CONCLUSIONS:
Low-income mothers experience significant anxiety about the transition from the NICU to home. Families value HVs who are trustworthy and have relevant medical knowledge about prematurity. Interventions to improve transition would benefit by incorporating parental input and facilitating trust and consistency in communication.
An approach to the broadband effect on Latin American growth: A structural model
Authors: Alderete María Verónica 
Published: February 2017

This paper analyses the fixed broadband penetration effect on Latin American economic growth. The methodology employed consists of using a simultaneous equation model based on Koutroumpis (2009) and Katz and Callorda (2013). To aid this process, we use country level data from the World Bank and the Regional Dialogue about the Information Society-DIRSI for the 2010-2014 period. The results obtained stress the importance of broadband penetration for economic growth in Latin America.
A static technique for the electro-mechanical characterization of MEMS devices for RF and microwave applications
Authors: Kaul Anupama B. , Klosowiak Tomasz , Liu Joshua 
Published: February 2017

AbstractAn approach for measuring force-dependent properties of microscopic structures commonly found in MEMS has been developed. The system has the capability of measuring forces and deflections of the order of micro-newtons and micro-meters, respectively. By implementing a visual inspection system, force is applied to localized areas on a beam, and the resulting force-deflection characteristic can be obtained. From this beam stiffness and effective elastic modulus can be calculated. These results were compared to simulation, which was performed using ANSYS FEM code. In addition, by applying a known mechanical force, direct correlation to voltage and thus electrostatic force can be obtained, which also elucidates the magnitude of the electrostatic feedback effect. Characterization of other force-dependent parameters such as DC contact resistance and isolation/insertion loss at RF and microwave frequencies was obtained experimentally, from which parameters such as lumped capacitance can be extracted.
Integrated Magnetic Sensing of Electrostatically Actuated Thin-Film Microbridges
Authors: Gaspar J. , Li Haohua , Freitas P.P. , Chu V. , Conde J.P. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractBilayer microbridges of aluminum and hydrogenated amorphous silicon are fabricated using thin film technology and surface micromachining at low temperatures on glass substrates. The microstructure is electrostatically actuated by applying a voltage between the bridge and a metal gate counter electrode placed beneath it. The movement is measured with a precision close to 0.1 Å by sensing the magnetic field of a permanent magnet, deposited and patterned on top of the microbridge, with an integrated spin valve magnetic sensor. The deflection of the bridge is at the same time monitored using an optical setup. The deflection of the structures is studied as a function of the driving applied gate voltage and bridge length and experimental results are analyzed with an electromechanical model.
Nanogap Capacitors for Label Free DNA Analysis
Authors: Lee Joon Sung , Choi Yang-Kyu , Pio Michael , Seo Jeonggi , Lee Luke P. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractNanogap capacitors are fabricated for DNA hybridization detection. Without labeling, the nanogap capacitors on a chip can function as DNA microarray sensors. The difference in dielectric properties between single-stranded DNA and double-stranded DNA permits use of capacitance measurements to detect hybridization. To obtain high detection sensitivity, a 50 nm gap capacitor was fabricated using a Si-nanotechnology. To ensure proper measurement of DNA's dielectrical properties, the probe ssDNA was first immobilized onto the electrode surface using self-assembly monolayers and allowed to hybridize with the target ssDNA. The capacitance changes were measured for 35-mer homonucleotides. The self-assembly monolayer and DNA immobilization events were verified independently by contact angle measurement and FTIR. Capacitance values are measured at frequencies ranging from 75 kHz to 5 MHz, using 0 VDC bias and 25 mVAC signals. Approximately 9% change in capacitance was observed after DNA hybridization at 75 kHz.
Microfabricated Patch-Clamp Array for Neural Mems Applications
Authors: Kubow Timothy M. , Cheung Karen C. , Bentley Loren F. , Lee Luke P. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractMicrofabricated patch clamping devices comprising planar arrays of individually addressable nozzles, fluidic channels and electrodes have been developed. Patch clamp based electrophysiological techniques are among the most widespread methods in neurophysiology and are used to address a broad range of cellular physiology and quantitative biological questions. Among the limitations of the technique are the difficulty of obtaining multiple patches on connected cells or on the same cell, limited stability of patches, and constraints on chemical and optical access to the patched membrane. The parallel array device will enable the formation of multiple seals simultaneously. The structure facilitates visualization of the interior of the patched membrane during electrical recording, as well as delivery of chemicals. The microfabrication technique gives precise control over the capacitive and resistive characteristics of the electrode channels, as well as the flow resistance, which are important factors in patch clamp recording. The device is fabricated using an SOI wafer and Deep Reactive Ion Etching to create an array of cylindrical nozzles, each of which has a core of silicon dioxide and interior walls of silicon nitride. Vertical channel segments and plumbing holes are fabricated by deep reactive ion etching through the wafer. Important electrical properties of the device were characterized, and patch clamping was attempted.
Novel Interface to Biological Systems for Retinal Prosthetics
Authors: Peterman Mark C. , Lee Christina , Leng Theodore , Huie Philip , Fishman Harvey A. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThe development of retinal prostheses requires a method for interconnecting an imaging system to the retina. Such a system must be able to individually address and stimulate retinal neurons, a significant advance from current technology. As a step toward this goal, we present a novel electronic-to-biologic interface using microfabricated apertures in a silicon substrate. Apertures are created in a thin silicon nitride membrane, after which the surface is appropriately modified to support cell growth. Excitable cells are seeded on the device and imaged using Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent dyes in either an inverted or confocal microscope. Using rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells, we show the ability to stimulate locally through the apertures. The device allows for the stimulation of cells at precise locations, a necessary requirement for future high-resolution retinal prostheses.
Adhesion-Based Capture and Separation of Cells for Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Chang Wesley C. , Lee Luke P. , Liepmann Dorian 
Published: February 2017

AbstractCell separation and sorting in micro-assay devices must be performed using minimal sample sizes and few processing steps. To meet these requirements, a biomimetic approach to cell sorting is proposed based on adhesive rolling of cells along surfaces. This type of interaction is mediated by a special class of adhesion proteins on cell membranes and is responsible for localizing cells to particular tissuesin vivo. To perform cell capture in a microdevce, raw sample can be flowed through microstructured fluidic channels, which serve as chromatographic “separation columns” and whose surfaces are coated with adhesion proteins. Targeted cells are captured by the flow structures and are permitted to roll slowly under shear from passing fluid. Among captured cells, differences in rolling speed provide the basis for segregating different populations. In this study, two prospective designs for microstructured fluidic channels were coated with E-selectin IgG chimera. The capture and enrichment of HL-60 and U-937 cells from flowing samples were demonstrated. Additionally, the difference in transit speed through one of the fluidic channels indicates that separation of enriched populations of these cells is feasible.
Designing Thermally Uniform Mems Hot Micro-Bolometers
Authors: Moelders Nicholas , Pralle Martin U. , McNeal Mark P. , Puscasu Irina , Last Lisa , Ho William , Greenwald Anton C. , Daly James T. , Johnson Edward A. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractHere we describe the evolution of a silicon, MEMS-based chip design developed for infrared gas and chemical detection. The “Sensor-Chip,” with integrated photonic crystal and reflective optics, employs narrow-band optical emission/absorption for selective identification of gas and chemical species. Gas concentration is derived from attenuated optical power, which results in a change in device set point. This change in temperature results in a change in device resistance, via the TCR of the Si. Thermal non-uniformity across the device results in optical “noise” and accelerates localized thermal and electrical failures. This paper reports the influence of processing and design, on achieving uniformly heated, high reliability devices. Specifically, we examine the role of contacts, drive scheme, and device thermal distribution on chip design. Experimentally the temperature uniformity was characterized using an infrared camera. Experimental results indicate that the design of the contact areas in combination with the device design is essential for the reliable performance of the Sensor-Chip. Redesigned devices were fabricated and demonstrated as highly-selective gas and chemical sensors.
Waferstepper Alignment for MEMS Applications using Diffraction Gratings
Authors: van Zeijl H. W. , Simon K. , Slabbekoorn J. , Buel W. v. , Gui C. Q. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractMEMS manufacturing in general and the litho step in particular could benefit tremendously from an enhanced focus range of waferstepper alignment systems. This would help the MEMS community to cope with large substrate topography or extreme thick resist films. In this study the performance range over which of the alignment system of an ASML PAS5000/50 system operates has been investigated.A test device that requires bulk micro machining was designed and processed. The required front to backwafer alignment (FTBA) was performed on alignment markers in cavities etched through a 100mm wafer. On the test device the FTBA overlay was measured electrically as well as optically using the metrology capability of the stepper alignment system. The results obtained demonstrate the capabilities of an existing alignment system to deal with high topographies. The overlay errors observed were dominated by the bulk micro machining processing.
Ammonothermal Crystallization of AlN Crystals
Authors: Motchanyy Alexander I. , Reu Alexey A. , Kovalenko Vladimir S. , Balakirev Vladimir G. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractIII-Nitrides (GaN, AlN and other compounds) have attracted vast interest due to their unique properties and potential applications in optoelectronic devices operating in the blue and UV spectral regions and for the construction of electronic devices capable of operating under high power and high temperature conditions.Nanocrystalline AlN powder were obtained by AMMONO method, in which nitridization of Al metal occurs in highly chemical active supercritical ammonia using both NH4Cl as mineralizer. The experiments were performed in the temperature range of 350-550 °C and pressure of 80-120 MPa in stainless steel autoclaves for up to 5 days. Nanocrystalline AlN were spontaneously nucleated on the lower walls of the autoclaves. The obtained AlN powder was characterized by X-ray diffraction. Nanocrystalline AlN powders with average crystallite size 20-30 nm were produced in the temperature range of 450-550 °C.
Crystal Growth of RNiO3 Perovskites Under High Oxygen Pressure and Hydrothermal Conditions.
Authors: Alonso J.A. , Martínez-Lope M.J. , Casais M.T. , Muñoz A. , Largeteau A. , Demazeauc G. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractWell-shaped single crystals of RNiO3 perovskites (R= Nd, Ho, Y) have been grown under high oxygen pressure conditions, in a piston-cylinder press at 2 GPa or in a belt-type press at 4 GPa. The reaction took place in sealed platinum capsules, in the presence of KClO3 as oxidizing agent. It seems that the choice of hydroxides of the involved cations as precursors is crucial for the success of the crystal growth, via water vapor transport reactions. The perovskites have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning microscopy and DSC measurements, suitable to identify the metal insulator transition. The transition temperatures of the as-grown crystals show a significantly lower hysteresis in the heating and cooling runs than those reported for powder materials, suggesting a lower density of defects.