bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A modular platform for one-step assembly of multi-component membrane systems by fusion of charged proteoliposomes
Authors: Ishmukhametov Robert R. , Russell Aidan N. , Berry Richard M. 
Published: October 2016

AbstractAn important goal in synthetic biology is the assembly of biomimetic cell-like structures, which combine multiple biological components in synthetic lipid vesicles. A key limiting assembly step is the incorporation of membrane proteins into the lipid bilayer of the vesicles. Here we present a simple method for delivery of membrane proteins into a lipid bilayer within 5 min. Fusogenic proteoliposomes, containing charged lipids and membrane proteins, fuse with oppositely charged bilayers, with no requirement for detergent or fusion-promoting proteins, and deliver large, fragile membrane protein complexes into the target bilayers. We demonstrate the feasibility of our method by assembling a minimal electron transport chain capable of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, combining Escherichia coli F1Fo ATP-synthase and the primary proton pump bo3-oxidase, into synthetic lipid vesicles with sizes ranging from 100 nm to ∼10 μm. This provides a platform for the combination of multiple sets of membrane protein complexes into cell-like artificial structures.
Differential photosynthetic and morphological adaptations to low light affect depth distribution of two submersed macrophytes in lakes
Authors: Chen Jianfeng , Cao Te , Zhang Xiaolin , Xi Yilong , Ni Leyi , Jeppesen Erik 
Published: October 2016

AbstractTo evaluate the relative importance of photosynthetic versus morphological adaptations of submersed macrophytes to low light intensity in lakes, rapid light curves (RLCs), morphological parameters, relative growth rate (RGR), clonal reproduction and abundance of two submersed macrophytes (Potamogeton maackianus and Vallisneria natans) were examined under 2.8%, 7.1%, 17.1% and 39.5% ambient light in a field and outdoor experimental study. The plants increased their initial slope of RLCs (α) and decreased their minimum saturating irradiance (Ek) and maximum relative electron transport rate (ETRm) of RLCs under low light stress, but V. natans was more sensitive in RLCs than P. maackianus. Accordingly, the RGR, plant height and abundance of P. maackianus were higher in the high light regimes (shallow water) but lower in the low light regimes than those of V. natans. At the 2.8% ambient light, V. natans produced ramets and thus fulfilled its population expansion, in contrast to P. maackianus. The results revealed that P. maackianus as a canopy-former mainly elongated its shoot length towards the water surface to compensate for the low light conditions, however, it became limited in severe low light stress conditions. V. natans as a rosette adapted to low light stress mainly through photosynthetic adjustments and superior to severely low light than shoot elongation.
Transport of cerium oxide nanoparticles in saturated silica media: influences of operational parameters and aqueous chemical conditions
Authors: Zhang Zhaohan , Gao Peng , Qiu Ye , Liu Guohong , Feng Yujie , Wiesner Mark 
Published: October 2016

AbstractThis paper aimed to investigate the influences of operational parameters and aqueous chemical conditions on transport behaviors of cerium oxides nanoparticles (CeO2-NPs) in saturated silica media. Results indicated that increasing rates of attachment efficiency (α) were related with cationic types and critical deposition concentration (CDC) for divalent cation (Ca2+ and Mg2+) were more than 31-fold of that for monovalent cation (Na+ and K+). Increase or reduction of electrolyte pH could both promote the mobility of CeO2-NPs in glass beads, while influence was more evident at alkaline conditions. α increased linearly with NPs concentrations, while decreased linearly with flow velocity in the column and effects were related with electrolyte contents. Presence of surfactants could sharply decreased α and SDS was more effective to facilitate CeO2-NPs transport than Triton X–100. With DOMs concentrations increasing, α firstly kept constant, then sharply declined and finally reduced very slowly. The influence of DOMs on NPs deposition was in order of SA > HA > TA >  BSA. Overall, this study revealed that aqueous chemical conditions was crucial to NPs transport in porous media and would provide significant information for our understanding on the fate and transport of nanoparticles in natural environment.
3D bioprinting matrices with controlled pore structure and release function guide in vitro self-organization of sweat gland
Authors: Liu Nanbo , Huang Sha , Yao Bin , Xie Jiangfan , Wu Xu , Fu Xiaobing 
Published: October 2016

Abstract3D bioprinting matrices are novel platforms for tissue regeneration. Tissue self-organization is a critical process during regeneration that implies the features of organogenesis. However, it is not clear from the current evidences whether 3D printed construct plays a role in guiding tissue self-organization in vitro. Based on our previous study, we bioprinted a 3D matrix as the restrictive niche for direct sweat gland differentiation of epidermal progenitors by different pore structure (300-μm or 400-μm nozzle diameters printed) and reported a long-term gradual transition of differentiated cells into glandular morphogenesis occurs within the 3D construct in vitro. At the initial 14-day culture, an accelerated cell differentiation was achieved with inductive cues released along with gelatin reduction. After protein release completed, the 3D construct guide the self-organized formation of sweat gland tissues, which is similar to that of the natural developmental process. However, glandular morphogenesis was only observed in 300-μm–printed constructs. In the absence of 3D architectural support, glandular morphogenesis was not occurred. This striking finding made us to identify a previously unknown role of the 3D-printed structure in glandular tissue regeneration, and this self-organizing strategy can be applied to forming other tissues in vitro.
Pollen-mediated gene flow and seed exchange in small-scale Zambian maize farming, implications for biosafety assessment
Authors: Bøhn Thomas , Aheto Denis W. , Mwangala Felix S. , Fischer Klara , Bones Inger Louise , Simoloka Christopher , Mbeule Ireen , Schmidt Gunther , Breckling Broder 
Published: October 2016

AbstractGene flow in agricultural crops is important for risk assessment of genetically modified (GM) crops, particularly in countries with a large informal agricultural sector of subsistence cultivation. We present a pollen flow model for maize (Zea mays), a major staple crop in Africa. We use spatial properties of fields (size, position) in three small-scale maize farming communities in Zambia and estimate rates of cross-fertilisation between fields sown with different maize varieties (e.g. conventional and transgene). As an additional factor contributing to gene flow, we present data on seed saving and sharing among farmers that live in the same communities. Our results show that: i) maize fields were small and located in immediate vicinity of neighboring fields; ii) a majority of farmers saved and shared seed; iii) modeled rates of pollen-mediated gene flow showed extensive mixing of germplasm between fields and farms and iv) as a result, segregation of GM and non-GM varieties is not likely to be an option in these systems. We conclude that the overall genetic composition of maize, in this and similar agricultural contexts, will be strongly influenced both by self-organised ecological factors (pollen flow), and by socially mediated intervention (seed recycling and sharing).
Phycocyanin Inhibits Tumorigenic Potential of Pancreatic Cancer Cells: Role of Apoptosis and Autophagy
Authors: Liao Gaoyong , Gao Bing , Gao Yingnv , Yang Xuegan , Cheng Xiaodong , Ou Yu 
Published: October 2016

AbstractPancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDA) is one of the most lethal human malignancies and unresponsive to current chemotherapies. Here we investigate the therapeutic potential of phycocyanin as an anti-PDA agent in vivo and in vitro. Phycocyanin, a natural product purified from Spirulina, effectively inhibits the pancreatic cancer cell proliferation in vitro and xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Phycocyanin induces G2/M cell cycle arrest, apoptotic and autophagic cell death in PANC-1 cells. Inhibition of autophagy by targeting Beclin 1 using siRNA significantly suppresses cell growth inhibition and death induced by phycocyanin, whereas inhibition of both autophagy and apoptosis rescues phycocyanin-mediated cell death. Mechanistically, cell death induced by phycocyanin is the result of cross-talk among the MAPK, Akt/mTOR/p70S6K and NF-κB pathways. Phycocyanin is able to induce apoptosis of PANC-1 cell by activating p38 and JNK signaling pathways while inhibiting Erk pathway. On the other hand, phycocyanin promotes autophagic cell death by inhibiting PI3/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. Furthermore, phycocyanin promotes the activation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB, which plays an important role in balancing phycocyanin-mediated apoptosis and autosis. In conclusion, our studies demonstrate that phycocyanin exerts anti-pancreatic cancer activity by inducing apoptotic and autophagic cell death, thereby identifying phycocyanin as a promising anti-pancreatic cancer agent.
Contribution of 2-methyl-3-furanthiol to the cooked meat-like aroma of fermented soy sauce
Authors: Meng Qi , Kitagawa Riho , Imamura Miho , Katayama Hiroshi , Obata Akio , Sugawara Etsuko 
Published: October 2016

Abstract
The cooked meat-like aroma compound, 2-methyl-3-furanthiol (2M3F), was detected in fermented soy sauce (FSS) by GC-olfactometry and GC-MS. 2M3F was present in FSS at a concentration considerably greater than the perception threshold, and the 2M3F concentration increased with heating temperature. Sensory analysis indicated that with the addition of only 0.2 μg/L of 2M3F to the soy sauce sample, the cooked meat-like aroma is significantly stronger than that of sample without the addition of 2M3F. Hence, 2M3F contributes to the cooked meat-like aroma of FSS, which constitutes the key aroma component of FSS. In addition, 2M3F was generated from the addition of ribose and cysteine in FSS by heating at 120 °C, but it was not detected in a phosphate buffer under the same condition. Furthermore, 2M3F was not detected in acid-hydrolyzed vegetable-protein-mixed soy sauce (ASS) and heated ASS. These results indicated that fermentation by micro-organisms facilitates the generation of 2M3F in FSS.
The use of mobile applications to support self-management for people with asthma: a systematic review of controlled studies to identify features associated with clinical effectiveness and adherence
Authors: Hui Chi Yan , Walton Robert , McKinstry Brian , Jackson Tracy , Parker Richard , Pinnock Hilary 
Published: October 2016

Objectives: Telehealth is promoted as a strategy to support self-management of long-term conditions. The aim of this systematic review is to identify which information and communication technology features implemented in mobile apps to support asthma self-management are associated with adoption, adherence to usage, and clinical effectiveness.
Methods: We systematically searched 9 databases, scanned reference lists, and undertook manual searches (January 2000 to April 2016). We include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasiexperimental studies with adults. All eligible papers were assessed for quality, and we extracted data on the features included, health-related outcomes (asthma control, exacerbation rate), process/intermediate outcomes (adherence to monitoring or treatment, self-efficacy), and level of adoption of and adherence to use of technology. Meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were used.
Results: We included 12 RCTs employing a range of technologies. A meta-analysis (n = 3) showed improved asthma control (mean difference −0.25 [95% CI, −0.37 to −0.12]). Included studies incorporated 10 features grouped into 7 categories (education, monitoring/electronic diary, action plans, medication reminders/prompts, facilitating professional support, raising patient awareness of asthma control, and decision support for professionals). The most successful interventions included multiple features, but effects on health-related outcomes were inconsistent. No studies explicitly reported adoption of and adherence to the technology system.
Conclusion: Meta-analysis of data from 3 trials showed improved asthma control, though overall the clinical effectiveness of apps, typically incorporating multiple features, varied. Further studies are needed to identify the features that are associated with adoption of and adherence to use of the mobile app and those that improve health outcomes.
A Quaternary Ammonium Disinfectant Containing Germinants Reduces Clostridium difficile Spores on Surfaces by Inducing Susceptibility to Environmental Stressors
Authors: Nerandzic Michelle M. , Donskey Curtis J. 
Published: October 2016

Abstract
Exposing Clostridium difficile spores to germinants in a quaternary ammonium matrix was an effective method to reduce environmental contamination by sensitizing the spores, leaving them susceptible to ambient conditions and enhancing killing by acid, high-intensity visible light, and radiation.
Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis Caused by Bartonella henselae: A Case Report of Molecular Diagnostics Informing Nonsurgical Management
Authors: Bartley Patricia , Angelakis Emmanouil , Raoult Didier , Sampath Rangarajan , Bonomo Robert A. , Jump Robin L. P. 
Published: October 2016

Abstract
Identifying the pathogen responsible for culture-negative valve endocarditis often depends on molecular studies performed on surgical specimens. A patient with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome who had an aortic graft, a mechanical aortic valve, and a mitral anulloplasty ring presented with culture-negative prosthetic valve endocarditis and aortic graft infection. Research-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry on peripheral blood samples identified Bartonella henselae. Quantitative PCR targeting the16S-23S ribonucleic acid intergenic region and Western immunoblotting confirmed this result. This, in turn, permitted early initiation of pathogen-directed therapy and subsequent successful medical management of B henselae prosthetic valve endocarditis and aortic graft infection.
Towards a successful translocation of captive slow lorises (Nycticebusspp.) in Borneo: a review and recommendations
Authors: van der Sandt C. M. G. 
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACTWildlife in Southeast Asia is under threat mainly due to habitat loss and the illegal animal trade. Wild animals are rescued by wildlife centres and the slow loris (Nycticebusspp.) is one of them. After rehabilitation slow lorises are released into the wild and on average 26% is observed alive after at least ten weeks.The IUCN has established conditions under which captive wild animals can be translocated into their natural habitat. This review paper aims to give an overview of what has been published on release programs of captive slow lorises in order to improve translocations in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Five documented studies on translocation of slow lorises are summarised. I concentrated on: (1) species of captive slow loris, (2) health check, (3) pre-release habituation, (4) soft or hard release, (5) pre and post-release behavioural observations, (6) assessment of the release area: predators, habitat and protection. The recommendations for future releases are: (1) Study which slow loris species are rehabilitated in Bornean wildlife centres. (2) Study the behaviour of captive slow lorises. (3) Assess the slow loris species in the release area. (4) Study the behaviour and habitat use of the wild population. (5) Assess what predators are present in the release area.
Identification of a Zika NS2B-NS3pro pocket susceptible to allosteric inhibition by small molecules including qucertin rich in edible plants
Authors: Lim Liangzhong , Roy Amrita , Song Jianxing 
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACTIt has been recently estimated that one-third of the world population will be infected by Zika virus, but unfortunately so far there is no vaccine or medicine available. In particular, the special concern on the vaccine treatment to Zika and Dengue arising from antibody-dependent enhancement strongly emphasizes the irreplaceable role of its NS2B-NS3 protease (NS2B-NS3pro) as a target for anti-Zika drug discovery/design due to its absolutely-essential role in viral replication. Very recently we identified two small molecules inhibit Zika NS2B-NS3pro in non-competitive mode, withKivalues of 0.57 and 2.02 µM respective for p-Nitrophenyl-p-guanidino benzoate and qucertin. Here, by molecular docking, we show that although one is designed compound while another is a natural product, both molecules bind to the same pocket on the back of the substrate-binding pocket of Zika NS2B-NS3pro. As the two inhibitors fundamentally differ from cn-716, the only known peptidomimetic boronic acid inhibitor in both structure scaffolds and inhibitory modes, our discovery might open up a new avenue for the future development of allosteric inhibitors, which is highly demanded to achieve therapeutic inhibition of flaviviral NS2B-NS3pro complexes. Furthermore, as qucertin is abundant in many vegetables and fruits such caper, lovage, tea and red onion, our results should benefit the public to immediately fight Zika virus.
Crystal structure and RNA-binding properties of an Hfq homolog from the deep-branching Aquificae: Conservation of the lateral RNA-binding mode
Authors: Stanek Kimberly A , West Jennifer P , Randolph Peter S , Mura Cameron 
Published: October 2016

SynopsisThe structure of an Hfq homolog from the deep-branching thermophilic bacteriumAquifex aeolicus, determined to 1.5-Å resolution both inapoform and bound to a uridine-rich RNA, reveals a conserved, pre-organized RNA-binding pocket on the lateral rim of the Hfq hexamer.AbstractThe host factor Hfq, as the bacterial branch of the Sm family, is an RNA-binding protein involved in post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA expression and turnover. Hfq facilitates pairing between small regulatory RNAs (sRNA) and their corresponding mRNA targets by binding both RNAs and bringing them into close proximity. Hfq homologs self-assemble into homo-hexameric rings, with at least two distinct surfaces that bind RNA. Recently, another binding site—dubbed the ‘lateral rim’—has been implicated in sRNA•mRNA annealing; the RNA-binding properties of this site appear to be rather subtle, and its degree of evolutionary conservation is unknown. An Hfq homolog has been identified in the phylogenetically deep-branching thermophileAquifex aeolicus(Aae), but little is known about the structures and functions of Hfq from basal bacterial lineages such as the Aquificae. Thus, we have cloned, overexpressed, purified, crystallized, and biochemically characterizedAaeHfq. We have determined the structures ofAaeHfq in space-groupsP1 andP6, both to 1.5 Å resolution, and we have discovered nanomolar-scale binding affinities for uridine- and adenosine-rich RNAs. Co-crystallization with U6RNA reveals that the outer rim of theAaeHfq hexamer features a well-defined binding pocket that is selective for uracil. ThisAaeHfq structure, combined with biochemical and biophysical characterization of the homolog, reveals deep evolutionary conservation of the lateral RNA-binding mode, and lays a foundation for further studies of Hfq-associated RNA biology in ancient bacterial phyla.
Oligodendrocytes in the mouse optic nerve originate in the preoptic area
Authors: Ono Katsuhiko , Yoshii Kengo , Tominaga Hiroyuki , Gotoh Hitoshi , Nomura Tadashi , Takebayashi Hirohide , Ikenaka Kazuhiro 
Published: October 2016

AbstractThe present study aims to examine the origin of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) in the mouse optic nerve (ON) by labeling OPCs in the fetal forebrain. The labeling of OPCs in the ON was performed by injection of a retrovirus vector carrying thelacZgene into the lateral ventricle, or by inducible Cre/loxP of Olig2-positive cells. The retrovirus labeling revealed that ventricular zone-derived cells of the fetal forebrain relocated to the ON and differentiated into oligodendrocytes. In addition, lineage tracing of Olig2-positive cells and whole mount staining of PDGFRα-positive cells demonstrated that OPCs appeared by E12.5 in the preoptic area, and spread caudally to enter the ON. Our results also suggest that OPCs generated during the early stage are depleted from the ON after maturation.
Using bonus and awards for motivating project employees
Authors: Law Chuck C.H. 
Published: October 2016

Purpose
This paper aims to discuss the appropriate uses of bonuses and award in recruiting and motivating project employees.

Design/methodology/approach
It is a conceptual discussion of human resources management (HRM) practices, supported by the author’s professional experience and observations in real-life project settings.

Findings
Bonuses and awards not only provide extrinsic financial rewards but also provide positive feedback to recipients. Extrinsic financial benefits (such as sign-on bonus, and retention bonus) may enhance the total compensation package and positively affect an employee’s job-related decision at least for the short term. He/she may accept a job offer or choose to stay on a project longer until the completion of a critical milestone because of the bonuses. However, positive recognition of employee performance (through the use of spot award, holiday award, or non-financial certificate of appreciation) is also a useful means to motivate employees. In addition, managers on international assignments need to pay attention to practices specific to host countries.

Practical implications
The practices discussed in this paper are based on real-life experience and observations. When they are used properly in conjunction with other HRM arrangements, bonuses and awards can be used to mitigate and delay turnover, and to motivate employees to increase their work performance.

Originality/value
This paper not only draws on theories and information from the HRM and project management literature but also draws from the author’s own management experience. Thus, the relevance and validity of the proposed concepts and practices have been proven in actual functional and project management settings.
Moderate Alcohol Consumption and Chronic Disease: The Case for a Long‐Term Trial
Authors: Mukamal Kenneth J. , Clowry Catherine M. , Murray Margaret M. , Hendriks Henk F.J. , Rimm Eric B. , Sink Kaycee M. , Adebamowo Clement A. , Dragsted Lars O. , Lapinski P. Scott , Lazo Mariana , Krystal John H. 
Published: October 2016

Drinking within recommended limits is highly prevalent in much of the world, and strong epidemiological associations exist between moderate alcohol consumption and risk of several major chronic diseases, including coronary heart disease, diabetes, and breast cancer. In many cases, plausible biological mediators for these associations have been identified in randomized trials, but gold standard evidence that moderate drinking causes or prevents any chronic disease remains elusive and important concerns about available evidence have been raised. Although long‐term randomized trials to test the observed associations have been termed impossible, clinical investigators have now successfully completed randomized trials of complex nutritional interventions in a variety of settings, along with trials of alcohol consumption itself of up to 2 years duration. The successful completion of these trials suggests that objections to the execution of a full‐scale, long‐term clinical trial of moderate drinking on chronic disease are increasingly untenable. We present potential lessons learned for such a trial and discuss key features to maximize its feasibility and value.