bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Application of the difference spectroscopy for studying of complex acceptors in CdTe
Authors: Bagaev Victor , Krivobok Vladimir , Nikolaev Sergey , Onischenko Evgeny , Pruchkina Anna 
Published: February 2016

AbstractWavelength modulation of the excitation source combined with the analysis of the differential PL signal have been applied to studying of electronic spectra of acceptors in compensated CdTe:Cl, CdTe:Ag,Cl single crystals. For the Cl‐related complex acceptor with an activation energy of ∼121 meV (A‐center), the energies of eight excited states are measured. In the case of tetrahedral AgCdacceptor the splitting of 2P3/2 (Γ8) and 2S3/2 (Γ8) states has been revealed for AgCd centres located at a short distances (5‐7 nm) from a hydrogen‐like donor (ClTe). A method allowing a simple symmetry test for acceptors in a diverse zinc‐blende compound semiconductor is proposed. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Slicer Endonuclease Argonaute 2 Is a Negative Regulator of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Quiescence
Authors: Lu Kenneth , Nakagawa Masahiro Marshall , Thummar Keyur , Rathinam Chozha Vendan 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are capable of both self-renewing throughout the lifetime of an organism and differentiating into all lineages of the blood system. A proper balance between quiescence and proliferation is critical for the self-renewal and functions of HSCs. The choice of HSCs to remain quiescent or to enter proliferation has been tightly regulated by a variety of cell intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Identifying molecular players that control HSC quiescence and proliferation may lead to new treatment strategies and therapeutic interventions for hematologic disorders. To identify the functions of the slicer endonuclease Argonaute (Ago) 2 in the physiology of HSCs, we generated Ago2Hem-KO mice, that are deficient for Ago2 in HSCs and in their progeny. Analysis of Ago2Hem-KO mice indicated that a loss of Ago2 results in reduced HSC pool size and altered frequencies of hematopoietic progenitors. Ago2 deficient HSCs exhibit defective multilineage differentiation capacities and diminished repopulation abilities, in a cell intrinsic manner. Interestingly, Ago2 mutant HSCs remain largely quiescent and show reduced entry into cell cycle. Genome-wide transcriptome studies and gene set enrichment analysis revealed that Ago2 deficient HSCs downregulate the “HSC signature” and upregulate the “lineage signature.” Moreover, our analysis on transcription factors (TFs) identified that a loss of Ago2 is sufficient to alter the “molecular signature” and “TF networks” that control the quiescent and proliferative states of HSCs. In essence, our study identified Ago2 as a key determinant of quiescence exit in HSCs.
MicroRNA-145 Regulates Neural Stem Cell Differentiation Through the Sox2–Lin28/let-7 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Morgado Ana L. , Rodrigues Cecília M.P. , Solá Susana 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) regulate several biological functions, including cell fate determination and differentiation. Although miR-145 has already been described to regulate glioma development, its precise role in neurogenesis has never been addressed. miR-145 represses sex-determining region Y-box 2 (Sox2), a core transcription factor of embryonic stem cells (ESCs), to inhibit pluripotency and self-renewal in human ESCs. In addition, the Sox2–Lin28/let-7 signaling pathway regulates proliferation and neurogenesis of neural precursors. In this study, we aimed to investigate the precise role of miR-145 in neural stem cell (NSC) fate decision, and the possible involvement of the Sox2–Lin28/let-7 signaling pathway in miR-145 regulatory network. Our results show for the first time that miR-145 expression significantly increased after induction of mouse NSC differentiation, remaining elevated throughout this process. Forced miR-145 downregulation decreased neuronal markers, namely βIII-tubulin, NeuN, and MAP2. Interestingly, throughout NSC differentiation, protein levels of Sox2 and Lin28, a well-known suppressor of let-7 biogenesis, decreased. Of note, neuronal differentiation also resulted in let-7a and let-7b upregulation. Transfection of NSCs with anti-miR-145, in turn, increased both Sox2 and Lin28 protein levels, while decreasing both let-7a and let-7b. More importantly, Sox2 and Lin28 silencing partially rescued the impairment of neuronal differentiation induced by miR-145 downregulation. In conclusion, our results demonstrate a novel role for miR-145 during NSC differentiation, where miR-145 modulation of Sox2–Lin28/let-7 network is crucial for neurogenesis progression.
Peribiliary Glands as a Niche of Extrapancreatic Precursors Yielding Insulin-Producing Cells in Experimental and Human Diabetes
Authors: Carpino Guido , Puca Rosa , Cardinale Vincenzo , Renzi Anastasia , Scafetta Gaia , Nevi Lorenzo , Rossi Massimo , Berloco Pasquale B. , Ginanni Corradini Stefano , Reid Lola M. , Maroder Marella , Gaudio Eugenio , Alvaro Domenico 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
Peribiliary glands (PBGs) are niches in the biliary tree and containing heterogeneous endodermal stem/progenitors cells that can differentiate, in vitro and in vivo, toward pancreatic islets. The aim of this study was to evaluate, in experimental and human diabetes, proliferation of cells in PBGs and differentiation of the biliary tree stem/progenitor cells (BTSCs) toward insulin-producing cells. Diabetes was generated in mice by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of 200 mg/kg (N = 12) or 120 mg/kg (N = 12) of streptozotocin. Liver, pancreas, and extrahepatic biliary trees were en bloc dissected and examined. Cells in PBGs proliferated in experimental diabetes, and their proliferation was greatest in the PBGs of the hepatopancreatic ampulla, and inversely correlated with the pancreatic islet area. In rodents, the cell proliferation in PBGs was characterized by the expansion of Sox9-positive stem/progenitor cells that gave rise to insulin-producing cells. Insulin-producing cells were located mostly in PBGs in the portion of the biliary tree closest to the duodenum, and their appearance was associated with upregulation of MafA and Gli1 gene expression. In patients with type 2 diabetes, PBGs at the level of the hepatopancreatic ampulla contained cells showing signs of proliferation and pancreatic fate commitment. In vitro, high glucose concentrations induced the differentiation of human BTSCs cultures toward pancreatic beta cell fates. The cells in PBGs respond to diabetes with proliferation and differentiation towards insulin-producing cells indicating that PBG niches may rescue pancreatic islet impairment in diabetes. These findings offer important implications for the pathophysiology and complications of this disease.
High‐cycle fatigue behaviour of reinforcing steel under the effect of ongoing corrosion
Authors: Gehlen Christoph , Osterminski Kai , Weirich Tim 
Published: February 2016

AbstractThis paper presents the results of the corrosion fatigue behaviour of profiled reinforcing steel bars. Cyclically loaded rebar was simultaneously exposed to different corrosive environments – moderate to severe corrosive environments simulating XC or XD/XS exposure. Corrosion was configured naturally without any external polarization. Rebar was exposed to the corrosive solutions either directly or, when embedded in concrete, indirectly. In this latter case, corrosive agents penetrated towards the steel surface through an open crack. Low frequency was applied to enable extended corrosion periods. The potential drop method was utilized to detect and quantify the crack initiation and crack growth of the rebar. Using this method it was possible to determine the ratios between the number of cycles to crack initiation and the cycles to failure. Based on this method, the Nini/NF ratios were almost always between 0.8 and 0.9 – values that are similar to ratios determined for rebar tested in air (reference). This indicates that the fatigue life of rebar in carbonated concrete or concrete containing chloride is strongly dependent on crack initiation and less on crack growth. The S‐N curves derived from the corrosion fatigue tests deviate significantly from the curve that was measured during the reference fatigue tests (tests in air). The S‐N curves of rebar tested under corrosion fatigue load were linear, with a slope that was much steeper than the slope of the reference rebar tested in air.
Subtle alterations of excitatory transmission are linked to presynaptic changes in the hippocampus of PINK1‐deficient mice
Authors: Feligioni Marco , Mango Dalila , Piccinin Sonia , Imbriani Paola , Iannuzzi Filomena , Caruso Alessandra , De Angelis Francesca , Blandini Fabio , Mercuri Nicola B. , Pisani Antonio , Nisticò Robert 
Published: February 2016

ABSTRACTHomozygous or heterozygous mutations in the PTEN‐induced kinase 1 (PINK1) gene have been linked to early‐onset Parkinson's disease (PD). Several neurophysiological studies have demonstrated alterations in striatal synaptic plasticity along with impaired dopamine release in PINK1‐deficient mice. Using electrophysiological methods, here we show that PINK1 loss of function causes a progressive increase of spontaneous glutamate‐mediated synaptic events in the hippocampus, without influencing long‐term potentiation. Moreover, fluorescence analysis reveals increased neurotrasmitter release although our biochemical results failed to detect which presynaptic proteins might be engaged. This study provides a novel role for PINK1 beyond the physiology of nigrostriatal dopaminergic circuit. Specifically, PINK1 might contribute to preserve synaptic function and glutamatergic homeostasis in the hippocampus, a brain region underlying cognition. The subtle changes in excitatory transmission here observed might be a pathogenic precursor to excitotoxic neurodegeneration and cognitive decline often observed in PD. Using electrophysiological and fluorescence techniques, we demonstrate that lack of PINK1 causes increased excitatory transmission and neurotransmitter release in the hippocampus, which might lead to the cognitive decline often observed in Parkinson's disease. Synapse 70:223–230, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictors of alcohol‐related negative consequences in adolescents: A systematic review of the literature and implications for future research
Authors: Grigsby Timothy J. , Forster Myriam , Unger Jennifer B. , Sussman Steve 
Published: February 2016

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo conduct a systematic review of the literature examining risk and protective factors of alcohol related negative consequences (ARNCs) among adolescents.MethodsWe conducted a systematic search of original empirical articles published between January 1, 1990 and June 1, 2015. The qualitative synthesis was performed using the Theory of Triadic Influence as a framework.ResultsFifty‐two studies were reviewed. Intrapersonal (e.g., personality traits, drinking motives and expectancies, depression), interpersonal (e.g., parental and peer alcohol use, violence exposure) and attitudinal factors (e.g., media exposure to alcohol, religiosity) influence ARNCs. Emerging evidence of new trends contributing to ARNCs include ready mixed alcohol drinks and childhood trauma and abuse.ConclusionsRisk factors from all domains of influence were observed. More research is needed on protective factors and how alcohol use interacts with preventive factors in predicting ARNCs. The conceptualization of negative consequences varies significantly between studies and may impact the external validity of previous research.
Recent advances in genetic testing and counseling for inherited arrhythmias
Authors: Mizusawa Yuka 
Published: February 2016

AbstractInherited arrhythmias, such as cardiomyopathies and cardiac ion channelopathies, along with coronary heart disease (CHD) are three most common disorders that predispose adults to sudden cardiac death. In the last three decades, causal genes in inherited arrhythmias have been successfully identified. At the same time, it has become evident that the genetic architectures are more complex than previously known. Recent advancements in DNA sequencing technology (next generation sequencing) have enabled us to study such complex genetic traits.This article discusses indications for genetic testing of patients with inherited arrhythmias. Further, it describes the benefits and challenges that we face in the era of next generation sequencing. Finally, it briefly discusses genetic counseling, in which a multidisciplinary approach is required due to the increased complexity of the genetic information related to inherited arrhythmias.
Impact of Mode of Delivery on Female Postpartum Sexual Functioning: Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery and Operative Vaginal Delivery vs Cesarean Section
Authors: Barbara Giussy , Pifarotti Paola , Facchin Federica , Cortinovis Ivan , Dridi Dhohua , Ronchetti Camilla , Calzolari Luca , Vercellini Paolo 
Published: February 2016

ABSTRACTIntroductionSeveral studies have explored the association between modes of delivery and postpartum female sexual functioning, although with inconsistent findings.AimTo investigate the impact of mode of delivery on female postpartum sexual functioning by comparing spontaneous vaginal delivery, operative vaginal delivery, and cesarean section.MethodsOne hundred thirty-two primiparous women who had a spontaneous vaginal delivery, 45 who had an operative vaginal delivery, and 92 who underwent a cesarean section were included in the study (N = 269). Postpartum sexual functioning was evaluated 6 months after childbirth using the Female Sexual Function Index. Time to resumption of sexual intercourse, postpartum depression, and current breastfeeding also were assessed 6 months after delivery.Main Outcome MeasuresFemale Sexual Function Index total and domain scores and time to resumption of sexual intercourse at 6 months after childbirth.ResultsWomen who underwent an operative vaginal delivery had poorer scores on arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and global sexual functioning compared with the cesarean section group and lower orgasm scores compared with the spontaneous vaginal delivery group (P &lt; .05). The mode of delivery did not significantly affect time to resumption of sexual intercourse. Women who were currently breastfeeding had lower lubrication, more pain at intercourse, and longer time to resumption of sexual activity.ConclusionOperative vaginal delivery might be associated with poorer sexual functioning, but no conclusions can be drawn from this study regarding the impact of pelvic floor trauma (perineal laceration or episiotomy) on sexual functioning because of the high rate of episiotomies. Overall, obstetric algorithms currently in use should be refined to decrease further the risk of operative vaginal delivery.
Large‐scale evaluation of SLC18A2 in prostate cancer reveals diagnostic and prognostic biomarker potential at three molecular levels
Authors: Haldrup Christa , Lynnerup Anne-Sofie , Storebjerg Tine Maj , Vang Søren , Wild Peter , Visakorpi Tapio , Arsov Christian , Schulz Wolfgang A. , Lindberg Johan , Grönberg Henrik , Egevad Lars , Borre Michael , Ørntoft Torben Falck , Høyer Søren , Sørensen Karina Dalsgaard 
Published: February 2016

Limitations of current diagnostic and prognostic tools for prostate cancer (PC) have led to over‐diagnosis and over‐treatment. Here, we investigate the biomarker potential of the SLC18A2 (VMAT2) gene for PC at three molecular levels. Thus, SLC18A2 promoter methylation was analyzed in 767 malignant and 78 benign radical prostatectomy (RP) samples using methylation‐specific qPCR and Illumina 450K methylation microarray data. SLC18A2 transcript levels were assessed in 412 malignant and 45 benign RP samples using RNAseq data. SLC18A2 protein was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 502 malignant and 305 benign RP samples. Cancer‐specificity of molecular changes was tested using Mann–Whitney U tests and/or receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses. Log rank, uni‐ and multivariate Cox regression tests were used for survival analyses. We found that SLC18A2 promoter hypermethylation was highly cancer‐specific (area under the curve (AUC): 0.923–0.976) and associated with biochemical recurrence (BCR) after RP in univariate analyses. SLC18A2 transcript levels were reduced in PC and had independent prognostic value for BCR after RP (multivariate HR 0.13, P < 0.05). Likewise, SLC18A2 protein was down‐regulated in PC (AUC 0.898) and had independent prognostic value for BCR (multivariate HR 0.51, P < 0.05). Reduced SLC18A2 protein expression was also associated with poor overall survival in univariate analysis (HR 0.29, P < 0.05).Our results highlight SLC18A2 as a new promising methylation marker candidate for PC diagnosis. Furthermore, SLC18A2 expression (RNA and protein) showed promising prognostic potential beyond routine clinicopathological variables. Thus, novel SLC18A2‐based molecular tests could have useful future applications for PC detection and identification of high‐risk patients.
The Rule of Law in the Real World
Authors: Gowder Paul 
Published: February 2016

In The Rule of Law in the Real World, Paul Gowder defends a new conception of the rule of law as the coordinated control of power and demonstrates that the rule of law, thus understood, creates and preserves social equality in a state. In a highly engaging, interdisciplinary text that moves seamlessly from theory to reality, using examples ranging from Ancient Greece through the present, Gowder sheds light on how societies have achieved the rule of law, how they have sustained it in the face of political upheaval, and how it may be measured and developed in the future. The Rule of Law in the Real World is an essential work for scholars, students, policymakers, and anyone else who believes the rule of law is critical to the proper functioning of society. For more information, visit http://rulelaw.net. This book is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
Interpersonal Trust and Ability of Elderly Victims to Perform Activities of Daily Living in the Ya’an Earthquake Reconstruction Area, China
Authors: Liang Ying , Ju Wei 
Published: February 2016

AbstractObjectiveThe present study aimed to investigate the effect of the socioeconomic status and interpersonal trust of elderly victims of the Ya’an earthquake on their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs).MethodsRandom sampling was done in the 8 counties of Ya’an in Sichuan, China (N=691). A multistage random sampling method was used. Samples were selected from counties, towns, and villages, respectively. The Faith in People Scale was used to measure interpersonal trust, and the Barthel ADL Index was used to measure ADLs. Both scales have strong reliability.ResultsA total of 37.34% of elderly earthquake victims relied on others moderately to live, and their self-rating of interpersonal trust was relatively unfavorable. Factors such as being female, being widowed, having a low educational level, and income negatively affected ADLs, among which education had the greatest influence. Interpersonal trust was vital in enhancing the level of ADLs of elderly victims.ConclusionsA high level of interpersonal trust can significantly improve the ADLs of elderly persons. However, this may be achieved by weakening the negative effect of deteriorating social structure of victims. Attention should be focused on elderly victims whose social network worsens to improve their ADLs. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;page 1 of 7)
Family involvement in top management team: Impact on relationships between internal social capital and innovation
Authors: Sanchez-Famoso Valeriano , Maseda Amaia , Iturralde Txomin 
Published: February 2016

AbstractResearch on innovation in family firms has been increasing recently; however, the results are mixed, especially for non-listed firms. Based on internal social capital, we explore whether the relational antecedents of innovation are contingent on family involvement in management. Using a sample of 172 Spanish family small and medium-sized enterprises – an organisational form with prominent social and emotional factors – we test a structural model that examines the influence exerted by family involvement in the top management team on the relationships between innovation and internal social capital – in the form of family social capital and non-family social capital (family group and non-family group, respectively). The empirical findings obtained using the partial least squares technique show the importance of family involvement in management in such relationships in family firms. Family involvement in management was found to have negative effects in the relationship between internal social capital and innovation.
Climate-mediated changes in predator–prey interactions in the fossil record: a case study using shell-drilling gastropods from the Pleistocene Japan Sea
Authors: Chiba Tomoki , Sato Shin’ichi 
Published: February 2016

AbstractPaleoecological studies enhance our understanding of biotic responses to climate change because they consider long timescales not accessible through observational and experimental studies. Using predatory drillholes produced on fossil bivalve shells by carnivorous gastropods, we provide an example of how climate change affected predator–prey interactions. We quantitatively examine temporal changes in fossil molluscan assemblages and predation patterns from the Pleistocene Japan Sea, which experienced drastic environmental changes in relation to glacial–interglacial climate cycles. We found significant changes in predation patterns associated with a decline in the abundance of warm-water molluscan species. Climate-mediated fluctuations in the eustatic sea level and resultant weakening of the Tsushima Warm Current caused a decline in a warm-water shell-drilling predator, which moderated the predation pressure and size relationship between the predators and the bivalve prey. Our results indicate that climate-mediated range shifts of species in present-day and future marine ecosystems can likewise increase altered predator–prey interactions.
Response to “Comment on ‘Invalidation of the Intracavity Optogalvanic Method for Radiocarbon Detection’” by Daniel E Murnick
Authors: Carson Cantwell G 
Published: February 2016

AbstractOur results, when taken alongside those of two other research groups, appear to invalidate the early positive results for intracavity optogalvanic spectroscopy (ICOGS) and its detection of radiocarbon. Daniel Murnick, whose lab published those early results, has directed a comment setting out the perceived shortcomings of our article and the reasons that the results do not constitute invalidation, as our article claims. Absent support from his own findings or published literature, his various counterclaims regarding our experimental procedure appear to constitute only his considered professional opinion and the largest confounder highlighted by our research is not even mentioned. The preponderance of documented evidence regarding ICOGS clearly supports the null hypothesis and in our opinion, nothing in Murnick’s comment indicates otherwise.