bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of a S-adenosylmethionine analog that intrudes the RNA-cap binding site of Zika methyltransferase
Authors: Jain Rinku , Butler Kyle V. , Coloma Javier , Jin Jian , Aggarwal Aneel K. 
Published: May 2017

AbstractThe Zika virus (ZIKV) has emerged as a major health hazard. We present here a high resolution structure (1.55 Å) of ZIKV NS5 methyltransferase bound to a novel S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) analog in which a 4-fluorophenyl moiety substitutes for the methyl group. We show that the 4-fluorophenyl moiety extends into a portion of the RNA binding tunnel that typically contains the adenosine 2′OH of the RNA-cap moiety. Together, the new SAM analog and the high-resolution crystal structure are a step towards the development of antivirals against ZIKV and other flaviviruses.
Improved thrombolytic effect with focused ultrasound and neuroprotective agent against acute carotid artery thrombosis in rat
Authors: Lee Tsong-Hai , Yeh Jih-Chao , Tsai Chih-Hung , Yang Jen-Tsung , Lou Shyh-Liang , Seak Chen-June , Wang Chao-Yung , Wei Kuo-Chen , Liu Hao-Li 
Published: May 2017

AbstractCombination therapy with focused ultrasound (FUS) and a neuroprotective agent, BNG-1, was examined in an acute carotid thrombotic occlusion model using LED irradiation in rat to improve the thrombolytic effect of rt-PA. Seven treatment groups included (A) intravenous bolus injection of 0.45 mg/kg rt-PA, (B) intravenous bolus injection of 0.9 mg/kg, (C) sonothrombolysis with FUS alone, (D) oral administration of 2 g/kg BNG-1 for 7 days alone, (E) A + D, (F) A + C, and (G) A + C + D. Four comparison groups were made including (H) 0.45 mg/kg rt-PA 20% bolus +80% IV fusion + FUS, (I) 0.9 mg/kg rt-PA with 10% bolus + 90% intravenous fusion, (J) B + C, (K) B + D. At 7 days after carotid occlusion, small-animal carotid ultrasound and 7 T MR angiography showed the recanalization rate of ≤50% stenosis was 50% in group B and 83% in group I, but 0% in groups A and C and 17% in group D. Combination therapy improved recanalization rate to 50–63% in groups E and F, to 67–83% in groups J and K, and to 100% in groups G and H. Our study demonstrated combination therapy with different remedies can be a feasible strategy to improve the thrombolytic effect of rt-PA.
A preliminary analysis of volatile metabolites of human induced pluripotent stem cells along the in vitro differentiation
Authors: Capuano Rosamaria , Spitalieri Paola , Talarico Rosa Valentina , Domakoski Ana Carolina , Catini Alexandro , Paolesse Roberto , Martinelli Eugenio , Novelli Giuseppe , Sangiuolo Federica , Di Natale Corrado 
Published: May 2017

AbstractCellular metabolism of stem cell biology is still an unexplored field. However, considering the amount of information carried by metabolomes, this is a promising field for a fast identification of stem cells itself and during the differentiation process. One of the goals of such application is the identification of residual pluripotent cells before cell transplantation to avoid the occurrence of teratomas. In this paper, we investigatedin vitrothe volatile compounds (VOCs) released during human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) reprogramming. In particular, we studied hiPSCs differentiation to floating and adherent embryoid bodies until early neural progenitor cells. A preliminary Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometer (GC/MS) analysis, based on a single extraction method and chromatographic separation, indicated 17 volatile compounds whose relative abundance is altered in each step of the differentiation process. The pattern of VOCs shown by hiPSCs is well distinct and makes these cells sharply separated from the other steps of differentiations. Similar behaviour has also been observed with an array of metalloporphyrins based gas sensors. The use of electronic sensors to control the process of differentiation of pluripotent stem cells might suggest a novel perspective for a fast and on-line control of differentiation processes.
MAPK-mediated auxin signal transduction pathways regulate the malic acid secretion under aluminum stress in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Liu Xinwei , Lin Yameng , Liu Diqiu , Wang Chengxiao , Zhao Zhuqing , Cui Xiuming , Liu Ying , Yang Ye 
Published: May 2017

AbstractAn isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitative (iTRAQ)-based quantitative proteomic approach was used to screen the differentially expressed proteins during control treatment (CK), aluminum (Al) and Al+ indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) treatment of wheat lines ET8 (Al-tolerant). Further, the the expression levels of auxin response factor (ARF), Aux/IAA, Mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) 2c, and MAPK1a were analyzed. Results showed that 16 proteins were determined to be differentially expressed in response to Al and IAA co-treatment compared with Al alone. Among them, MAPK2c and MAPK1a proteins displayed markedly differential expression during the processes. The expression of ARF2 was upregulated and Aux/IAA was downregulated by Al, while both in concentration- and time-dependent manners. Western-blot detection of MAPK2c and MAPK1a indicated that Al upregulated MAPK2c and downregulated MAPK1a in both concentration- and time-dependent manners. Exogenous IAA could promote the expression of MAPK2c, but inhibit the expression of MAPK1a in the presence/absence of Al. These findings indicated that IAA acted as one of the key signaling molecule controls the response mechanism of wheat malic acid efflux to Al stress through the suppression/activation of Aux/IAA and ARFs, and the activity of MAPK2c and MAPK1a were positively or negatively regulated.
Rapid learning curve assessment in an ex vivo training system for microincisional glaucoma surgery
Authors: Dang Yalong , Waxman Susannah , Wang Chao , Parikh Hardik A. , Bussel Igor I. , Loewen Ralitsa T. , Xia Xiaobo , Lathrop Kira L. , Bilonick Richard A. , Loewen Nils A. 
Published: May 2017

AbstractIncreasing prevalence and cost of glaucoma have increased the demand for surgeons well trained in newer, microincisional surgery. These procedures occur in a highly confined space, making them difficult to learn by observation or assistance alone as is currently done. We hypothesized that our ex vivo outflow model is sensitive enough to allow computing individual learning curves to quantify progress and refine techniques. Seven trainees performed nine trabectome-mediated ab interno trabeculectomies in pig eyes (n = 63). An expert surgeon rated the procedure using an Operating Room Score (ORS). The extent of outflow beds accessed was measured with canalograms. Data was fitted using mixed effect models. ORS reached a half-maximum on an asymptote after only 2.5 eyes. Surgical time decreased by 1.4 minutes per eye in a linear fashion. The ablation arc followed an asymptotic function with a half-maximum inflection point after 5.3 eyes. Canalograms revealed that this progress did not correlate well with improvement in outflow, suggesting instead that about 30 eyes are needed for true mastery. This inexpensive pig eye model provides a safe and effective microsurgical training model and allows objective quantification of outcomes for the first time.
Frequent heteroplasmy and recombination in the mitochondrial genomes of the basidiomycete mushroom Thelephora ganbajun
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Sha Tao , Zhang Yunrun , Cao Yang , Mi Fei , Liu Cunli , Yang Dan , Tang Xiaozhao , He Xiaoxia , Dong Jianyong , Wu Jinyan , Yoell Shanze , Yoell Liam , Zhang Ke-Qin , Zhang Ying , Xu Jianping 
Published: May 2017

AbstractIn the majority of sexual eukaryotes, the mitochondrial genomes are inherited uniparentally. As a result, individual organisms are homoplasmic, containing mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from a single parent. Here we analyzed the mitochondrial genotypes in Clade I of the gourmet mushroomThelephora ganbajunfrom its broad geographic distribution range. A total of 299 isolates from 28 geographic locations were sequenced at three mitochondrial loci: the mitochondrial small ribosomal RNA gene, and the cytochrome c oxidase subunits I (COX1) and III (COX3) genes. Quantitative PCR analyses showed that the strains had about 60–160 copies of mitochondrial genomes per cell. Interestingly, while no evidence of heteroplasmy was found at the 12S rRNA gene, 262 of the 299 isolates had clear evidence of heterogeneity at either the COX1 (261 isolates) or COX3 (12 isolates) gene fragments. The COX1 heteroplasmy was characterized by two types of introns residing at different sites of the same region and at different frequencies among the isolates. Allelic association analyses of the observed mitochondrial polymorphic nucleotide sites suggest that mtDNA recombination is common in natural populations of this fungus. Our results contrast the prevailing view that heteroplasmy, if exists, is only transient in basidiomycete fungi.
Intranasal insulin enhances brain functional connectivity mediating the relationship between adiposity and subjective feeling of hunger
Authors: Kullmann Stephanie , Heni Martin , Veit Ralf , Scheffler Klaus , Machann Jürgen , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Fritsche Andreas , Preissl Hubert 
Published: May 2017

AbstractBrain insulin sensitivity is an important link between metabolism and cognitive dysfunction. Intranasal insulin is a promising tool to investigate central insulin action in humans. We evaluated the acute effects of 160 U intranasal insulin on resting-state brain functional connectivity in healthy young adults. Twenty-five lean and twenty-two overweight and obese participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging, on two separate days, before and after intranasal insulin or placebo application. Insulin compared to placebo administration resulted in increased functional connectivity between the prefrontal regions of the default-mode network and the hippocampus as well as the hypothalamus. The change in hippocampal functional connectivity significantly correlated with visceral adipose tissue and the change in subjective feeling of hunger after intranasal insulin. Mediation analysis revealed that the intranasal insulin induced hippocampal functional connectivity increase served as a mediator, suppressing the relationship between visceral adipose tissue and hunger. The insulin-induced hypothalamic functional connectivity change showed a significant interaction with peripheral insulin sensitivity. Only participants with high peripheral insulin sensitivity showed a boost in hypothalamic functional connectivity. Hence, brain insulin action may regulate eating behavior and facilitate weight loss by modifying brain functional connectivity within and between cognitive and homeostatic brain regions.
Waist-to-hip ratio, body-mass index, age and number of children in seven traditional societies
Authors: Butovskaya M. , Sorokowska A. , Karwowski M. , Sabiniewicz A. , Fedenok J. , Dronova D. , Negasheva M. , Selivanova E. , Sorokowski P. 
Published: May 2017

AbstractIt has been suggested that the preference for low WHRs evolved because low WHR provided a cue to female reproductive status and health, and therefore to her reproductive value. The present study aimed to test whether WHR might indeed be a reliable cue to female reproductive history (with lower WHRs indicating lower number of children). Previous studies showed such a relationship for modern and industrialized populations, but it has not been investigated in natural fertility, indigenous, more energy constrained populations facing greater trade-offs in energy allocation than do modern societies. Our sample comprised 925 women aged 13 to 95 years from seven non-industrial societies including tribes from Sub-Saharan Africa (Hadza, Datoga, and Isanzu), Western Siberia (Ob Ugric people: Khanty and Mansi), South America (Tsimane) and South Asia (Minahasans and Sangirese). We demonstrated a culturally stable, significant relationship between number of children and WHR among women, controlling for BMI and age. Based on these data, we suggest that WHR is a reliable cue to female reproductive history, and we discuss our results in the context of previous studies indicating usefulness of WHR as an indicator of health and fertility.
Soft Zr-doped TiO2 Nanofibrous Membranes with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity for Water Purification
Authors: Song Jun , Wang Xueqin , Yan Jianhua , Yu Jianyong , Sun Gang , Ding Bin 
Published: May 2017

AbstractSelf-standing photocatalytic membranes constructed from TiO2 nanofibers hold great promise in environmental remediation; however, challenges still remained for the poor mechanical properties of polycrystalline TiO2 nanofibers. Herein, soft Zr-doped TiO2 (TZ) nanofibrous membranes with robust mechanical properties and enhanced photocatalytic activity were fabricated via electrospinning technique. The Zr4+ incorporation could effectively inhibit the grain growth and reduce the surface defects and breaking point of TiO2 nanofiber. The as-prepared TZ membranes were composed of well-interconnected nanofibers with a high aspect ratios, small grain size and pore size, which exhibited good tensile strength (1.32 MPa) and showed no obvious damage after 200 cycles of bending to a radius of 2 mm. A plausible bending deformation mechanism of the soft TZ membranes was proposed from microscopic single nanofiber to macroscopical membranes. Moreover, the resultant TZ membranes displayed better photocatalytic performance for methylene blue degradation compared to a commercial catalyst (P25), including high degradation degree of 95.4% within 30 min, good reusability in 5 cycles, and easiness of recycling. The successful preparation of such fascinating materials may open up new avenues for the design and development of soft TiO2-based membranes for various application.
The CAM cancer xenograft as a model for initial evaluation of MR labelled compounds
Authors: Zuo Zhi , Syrovets Tatiana , Wu Yuzhou , Hafner Susanne , Vernikouskaya Ina , Liu Weina , Ma Genshan , Weil Tanja , Simmet Thomas , Rasche Volker 
Published: May 2017

AbstractNon-invasive assessment of the biodistribution is of great importance during the development of new pharmaceutical compounds. In this contribution, the applicability of in ovo MRI for monitoring the biodistribution of MR contrast agent-labelled compounds was investigated in mamaria carcinomas xentotransplanted on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) exemplarily for Gd-DOTA and cHSA-PEO (2000)16-Gd after systemic injection of the compounds into a chorioallantoic capillary vein. MRI was performed directly prior and 30 min, 3 h, 5 h, 20 h, and 40 h after injection of the compound. The biodistribution of injected compounds could be assessed by MRI in different organs of the chicken embryo as well as in xenotransplanted tumors at all time points. A clearly prolonged enhancement of the tumor substrate could be shown for cHSA-PEO (2000)16-Gd. In conclusion, high-resolution in ovo MR imaging can be used for assessment of the in vivo biodistribution of labelled compounds, thus enabling efficient non-invasive initial testing.
266–2133 MHz phase shifter using all‐digital delay‐locked loop and triangular‐modulated phase interpolator for LPDDR4X interface
Authors: Chae J.‐H. , Kim M. , Ko H. , Jeong Y. , Park J. , Hong G.‐M. , Jeong D.‐K. , Kim S. 
Published: May 2017

A 266–2133 MHz phase shifter is proposed for LPDDR4X interface, utilising an all‐digital delay‐locked loop (DLL) and a triangular‐modulated phase interpolator (PI) to improve the jitter and linearity. The DLL consists of two kinds of DLLs: a global DLL to assist fast locking; and a local DLL which uses an adaptive‐window phase detector and a folded delay line to reduce jitter and improve linearity. The PI uses a triangular‐modulated clock waveform to achieve good linearity over a wide frequency range. The prototype chip is implemented in a 65 nm CMOS process. The measured jitter of the DLL is 3.08 psrms/19.93 pspp at 2133 MHz. The measured differential non‐linearity of the phase shifter is <0.91 LSB at 2133 MHz, and the power efficiency is about 2.7 mW/GHz.
Quasi‐resonant DC‐link H5 PV inverter
Authors: Fazlali Behnam , Adib Ehsan 
Published: May 2017

By removing transformer from PV inverters, they become more attractive for distributed power generation systems. Regardless of their some extra leakage currents, transformer‐less inverters would be more advantageous regarding their higher efficiency. However, using traditionally hard‐switching converters still causes to drastic switching losses, high di/dt and electromagnetic interference. Quasi‐resonant DC‐link techniques have promising features to provide zero‐voltage switching (ZVS) condition for full bridge inverters, but they are not suitable for transformer‐less PV inverters due to consequent high leakage current. In this study, a transformer‐less PV inverter is proposed by adapting a proper quasi‐resonant DC‐link technique to the H5 topology. Using only two auxiliary switches, ZVS turn on and turn off for high‐frequency bus switch and ZCS turn on and ZVS turn off for high‐frequency switches of the bridge as well as ZVS turn on and turn off of the antiparallel diodes of main switches are realised. Zero current switching (ZCS) turn on and ZVS turn off for auxiliary switches and ZVS turn on and ZCS turn off for antiparallel diodes are also provided. To verify the proposed circuit operation, a 20 kHz 1 kW quasi‐resonant DC‐link H5 PV inverter prototype is implemented and operation characteristics, soft switching conditions and design rules are confirmed.
Pediatric Early Warning System Scores: Lessons to be Learned
Authors: Fuijkschot Joris , Kramer Boris , Vos Gijs , Sambeeck Sam 
Published: May 2017

AbstractThe objective was to evaluate the use of a pediatric early warning system (PEWS) score in Dutch general and university hospitals, 4 years after the introduction of a national safety program in which the implementation of a PEWS was advised. An electronic cross-sectional survey was used. All general and university hospitals (n = 91) with a pediatric department in The Netherlands were included in the study. The response rate was 100%. Three-quarters of all Dutch hospitals were using a PEWS score in the pediatric department. A wide variation in the parameters was found leading to 45 different PEWS scores. Almost all PEWS scores were invalidated, self-designed, or modified from other PEWS scores. In one-third of the hospitals with an emergency room, a PEWS was used with a wide variation in the parameters leading to 20 different PEWS scores, the majority of which are invalidated. Three-quarters of the hospitals did implement a PEWS score. The majority implemented an invalidated PEWS score. This may lead to a false sense of security or even a potentially dangerous situation. Although these systems are intuitively experienced as useful, the scientific evidence in terms of hospital mortality reduction and patient safety improvement is lacking. It is recommended to establish a national working group to coordinate the development, validation, and implementation of a wide safety program and a PEWS usable for both general and university hospitals.
Chemotaxis and autochemotaxis of self-propelling droplet swimmers
Authors: Jin Chenyu , Krüger Carsten , Maass Corinna C. 
Published: May 2017

Significance Statement
Chemotaxis and autochemotaxis are key mechanisms in the dynamics of microorganisms, e.g., in the acquisition of nutrients and in the communication between individuals, as well as influencing their collective behavior. However, chemical signaling and the natural environment of biological swimmers are generally complex, such that control parameters are hard to single out and quantify experimentally. Here, artificial systems with biomimetic features can provide vital insights. We present a well-controllable droplet swimmer system exhibiting both chemotaxis and negative autochemotaxis, as well as microfluidic assays to observe, control, and quantify these effects. Fundamental properties of the system can be derived by a simple analytical model.
(Role-)playing fair(s)
Authors: Cirillo Letizia , Radicioni Maura 
Published: May 2017

Abstract
In the present chapter, we focus on interpreter-mediated business negotiations as simulated in a classroom environment. Drawing on our own experience as dialogue interpreter instructors and on relevant literature, we argue that the structured role-play is a valuable teaching and learning tool to introduce students to the practice of dialogue interpreting in business settings. If the various steps of the role-playing activity are carefully designed and grounded on a dialogic approach, the activity can in fact shed light on the constraints and expectations associated with (interpreted) business negotiations and raise students’ awareness of the coordinating role of the interpreter therein.
The effects of proficiency on Spanish L2 learners’ strategic communication
Authors: Rosas Maldonado Maritza 
Published: May 2017

Abstract
This study investigates the effects of Spanish L2 learners’ proficiency levels on their use of communication strategies in face-to-face interactions. Spoken data was elicited by means of a task-based methodology from different level learners in interaction with other learners and Spanish NSs. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted to investigate a possible association between the learners’ proficiency levels and their communication strategy use. The analysis drew on Dӧrnyei & Kӧrmos’ (1998) taxonomy. Findings indicate a higher strategy use in beginner levels, and their tendency to tackle lexis-related problems, as well as less complex grammatical features of the language. Higher level learners, however, focused more on grammar-related problems, as well as on more complex aspects of the target language.
Comparing advanced L2 and heritage language learners’ Spanish grammars
Authors: Burgo Clara 
Published: May 2017

AbstractIt is very well known that we should take a sociolinguistic teaching approach for Spanish heritage language (HL) learners' instruction.Potowski (2005)proposed that instruction be centered on literacy development and grammatical knowledge. However, not much has been said regarding grammar instruction: What does Spanish HL learners' grammar look like? What are the main similarities and differences between advanced L2 learners and HL learners? What are the most effective grammar teaching techniques for Spanish HL learners? Can those techniques used for L2 grammar teaching be applied to HL learners? In this article, an answer to all of these questions is offered. Moreover, practical examples of activities are provided using several techniques such as processing instruction, interactional feedback, dictogloss, and input enhancement, followed by pedagogical implications derived from current research on grammar instruction for both advanced L2 and HL learners of Spanish.