bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MIAC: A mobility intention auto‐completion model for location prediction
Authors: Yi Feng , Feng Guan , Wang Hongtao , Li Zhi , Sun Limin
Published: August 2018

Location prediction is essential to many commercial applications and enables appealing experience for business and governments. Many research work show that human mobility is highly predictable. However, existing work on location prediction reported limited improvements in using generalized spatio‐temporal features and unsatisfactory prediction accuracy for complex human mobility. To address these challenges, in this paper we propose a Mobility Intention and Auto‐Completion (MIAC) model. We extract those mobility patterns that generalize common spatio‐temporal features of all users, and use the mobility intentions as the hidden states from mobility dataset. A new predicting algorithm based on auto‐completion is then proposed. The experimental results on real‐world datasets demonstrate that the proposed MIAC model can properly capture the regularity of a user's mobility by simultaneously considering the spatial and temporal features. The comparison results also indicate that MIAC model significantly outperforms state‐of‐the‐art location prediction methods, and also can predicts long range locations.
Simultaneous cell traction and growth measurements using light
Authors: Sridharan Weaver Shamira , Li Yanfen , Foucard Louis , Majeed Hassaan , Bhaduri Basanta , Levine Alex J. , Kilian Kristopher A. , Popescu Gabriel
Published: August 2018

Characterizing the effects of force fields generated by cells on proliferation, migration and differentiation processes is challenging due to limited availability of nondestructive imaging modalities. Here, we integrate a new real‐time traction stress imaging modality, Hilbert phase dynamometry (HPD), with spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM) for simultaneous monitoring of cell growth during differentiation processes. HPD uses holographic principles to extract displacement fields from chemically patterned fluorescent grid on deformable substrates. This is converted into forces by solving an elasticity inverse problem. Since HPD uses the epi‐fluorescence channel of an inverted microscope, cellular behavior can be concurrently studied in transmission with SLIM. We studied the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and found that cells undergoing osteogenesis and adipogenesis exerted larger and more dynamic stresses than their precursors, with MSCs developing the smallest forces and growth rates. Thus, we develop a powerful means to study mechanotransduction during dynamic processes where the matrix provides context to guide cells toward a physiological or pathological outcome.
Physical contact between mesenchymal stem cells and endothelial precursors induces distinct signatures with relevance to the very early phase of regeneration
Authors: Hafen Bettina , Wiesner Susanne , Schlegelmilch Katrin , Keller Alexander , Seefried Lothar , Ebert Regina , Walles Heike , Jakob Franz , Schütze Norbert
Published: August 2018

Multipotent adult stem cells/precursor cells, especially of the mesenchymal and endothelial lineage, may have great potential for bone tissue engineering. Although their potential is highly recognized, not much is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms that initiate the regeneration process, connect osteogenesis, and angiogenesis and, finally, orchestrate renewal of bone tissue. Our study addressed these questions by generating two in vitro cell culture models to examine the changes in the global gene expression patterns of endothelial precursor cells and mesenchymal stem cells after 24 hours of either humoral (conditioned medium) or direct cell‐cell interaction (co‐culture). Endothelial precursor cells were isolated from human buffy coat and mesenchymal stem cells from the bone marrow of the femoral head. The comparison of the treated and control cells by microarray analyses revealed in total more than 1500 regulated genes, which were analyzed for their affiliation to angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Expression array analyses at the RNA and protein level revealed data with respect to regulated genes, pathways and targets that may represent a valid basis for further dissection of the systems biology of regeneration processes. It may also be helpful for the reconstitution of the natural composition of a regenerative microenvironment when targeting tissue regeneration both in vitro and in situ.
Association of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and natural killer cell activity revealed by measurement of interferon‐gamma levels in a healthy population
Authors: Kim Bo‐Ram , Chun Sejong , Cho Duck , Kim Kyeong‐Hee
Published: August 2018

Background

While a method of assaying natural killer (NK) cell activity by measuring the amount of interferon (IFN)‐γ released from NK cells has been proposed, no data are available about the factors that influence IFN‐γ levels related to NK cell activity. NLR has recently been reported to be a predictor of several diseases. In the present study, we investigated the pre‐analytical variables for NK cell activity using measurements of IFN‐γ and the relationship between NLR and NK cell activity.

Methods

The NK cell activity was assessed with the measurement of IFN‐γ after stimulation with an NK cell‐specific stimulant (NK Vue™, ATgen, Sungnam, Korea). One hundred and six adult volunteers were recruited and analysis of their complete blood count data and serum C‐reactive protein was done. Blood sample from 59 of the participants was also used for analysis of lymphocyte subpopulations.

Result

Natural killer cell activity varied widely (range, 44.2‐1775.6 pg/mL). NK cell activity was higher in females than in males (P = 0.014). NK cell activity decreased with increasing NLR (P = 0.004, r = −0.32) but NK cell activity showed no significant association with NK cell count or other lymphocyte subpopulations. NK cell activity levels according to CRP quartile were significantly different (P = 0.025).

Conclusion

We have observed that NK cell activity when assessed by IFN‐γ level measurement was negatively correlating with NLR. This result can be helpful in interpreting or predicting NK cell activity in the clinical environment.
Change of miRNA expression profiles in patients with knee osteoarthritis before and after celecoxib treatment
Authors: Dong Zhao , Jiang Honghui , Jian Xiaofei , Zhang Weiguo
Published: August 2018

Background

This study aimed to investigate the change of circulating miRNA expression profiles in knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients before and after celecoxib treatment.

Methods

Two hundred and eighteen knee OA patients underwent celecoxib treatment for 6 weeks were enrolled. Plasma samples were obtained at baseline (W0) and at W6, and treatment efficacy were assessed by WOMAC index. In the exploration stage, miRNA expression profiles in plasma before and after treatment from 6 patients were detected by microarray. Subsequently, in the validation stage, 10 top differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) after and before treatment in microarray were further validated in all 218 patients by qPCR.

Results

In the exploration stage, patients after treatment could be distinguished from them before treatment by miRNAs expression profiles by PCA plot and heatmap analysis, and 45 up‐regulated and 48 down‐regulated miRNAs were identified by volcano plot. In the validation stage, miR‐126‐5p and miR‐320a levels increased at W6 compared to W0, while miR‐155‐5p and miR‐146a‐5p levels decreased. WOMAC pain/stiffness/physical function scores were all decreased at W6 compared to W0, and 71% of patients achieved clinical response. The increase of miR‐126‐5p expression (W6‐W0) in clinical responders was much larger compared to nonclinical responders. And miRNA‐320a level declined in nonclinical responders while increased in clinical responders. Conversely, miRNA‐146a‐5p level increased in nonclinical responders while decreased in clinical responders.

Conclusion

Circulating miRNA expression profiles act as important roles in knee OA patients underwent celecoxib treatment, and miR‐126‐5p, miR‐320a as well as miR‐146a‐5p might correlate with treatment response to celecoxib.
Wogonoside impedes the progression of acute myeloid leukemia through inhibiting bone marrow angiogenesis
Authors: Lin Binyan , Zhao Kai , Yang Dawei , Bai Dongsheng , Liao Yan , Zhou Yuxin , Yu Zhou , Yu Xiaoxuan , Guo Qinglong , Lu Na
Published: August 2018

Decreasing bone marrow (BM) microvessel density and circulating angiogenic cytokine levels are promising strategies for the treatment of relapsed and resistant acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Previous studies have reported that wogonoside could inhibit the progression of AML and suppress angiogenesis in a solid tumor, but the correlation of these two effects was ignored. In this research, we determined whether wogonoside could inhibit angiogenesis in this hematologic malignancy. We found that wogonoside could inhibit tumor growth and progression, and prolong the survival of nude mice inoculated with U937/MDR. Besides, reducing BM angiogenesis might cause therapeutic effect against resistant AML. Therefore, coculture between AML cells and BM stromal cells was established to imitate their crosstalk. Then, the effect of wogonoside on BM angiogenesis was tested in vitro and in vivo. We found that wogonoside could suppress microvessel formation in the chicken chorioallantoic membrane assay model and matrigel plug assay. The mechanism research revealed that wogonoside could block the JAK2‐STAT3 pathway in AML cells and stromal cells to break their positive feedback. We detected several cytokines related to AML or angiogenesis and found that secreted interleukin‐8 was a significant angiogenic cytokine to induce BM angiogenesis. These findings supported that new diagnostics and promising treatment strategies could be developed in relapsed and resistant AML patients.
Evaluation of circulation‐type classifications with respect to temperature and precipitation variations in the central and eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Xiaowen , Chen Deliang , Yao Tandong
Published: August 2018

Circulation‐type classifications (CTCs) are useful tools for systematically describing atmospheric circulation and studying its variation and impact on surface climate. However, few circulation classification methods (CCMs) have been applied in the Tibetan Plateau (TP). In this study, six frequently used CCMs using 500 hPa geopotential height data were assessed with respect to their abilities in explaining observed daily mean temperature and precipitation variations in the central and eastern TP for the period 1980–2014. Two statistical measures, the explained variance and the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, were used to quantify the performance of the CTCs in describing climate variable variations. SAN (simulated annealing and diversified randomization clustering) and KRZ (Kruizinga's eigenvector‐based scheme) were identified as optimum CCMs for synoptic typing over the study region. The daily mean temperatures are well conditioned on SAN‐CTC with 43.9–62.4% explained variance at annual scale and 11.1–25.2% at seasonal scale. For daily precipitation variations, the explained variance at the annual scale is less than 40%. The spatial characters of climate variation affected by large‐scale circulation are identified. Daily mean temperature variations in the Qaidam Basin and the Qilian Mountains (90°–103°E and 35°–40°N) all year round and in the region between the Tanggula Mountains and the Himalayan Mountains (88°–97°E and 30°–34°N) in wet season (May–September) are well resolved by the CTCs. Daily precipitation variations in the eastern TP in the dry season (October–April) and a region from the Brahmaputra River basin to the Tanggula Mountains (85°–92°E and 28°–32°N) and the southern Hengduan Mountains (98°–102°E and 27°–31°N) in the wet season show a close relationship with the identified CTCs by SAN.
Local winds of Balkan Peninsula
Authors: Romanic Djordje
Published: August 2018

The Mediterranean is characterized with a large number of local winds. One region in the Mediterranean—the Balkan Peninsula or simply the Balkans—is particularly rich with local winds of different types including downslope and upslope winds, gap flows, and thermally induced breezes from land to sea and vice versa. This study presents the first comprehensive review of all currently known local winds in the Balkans, with coastal winds reviewed separately from inland winds. Besides providing the main climatological and dynamics characteristics of these winds, this paper also hints on the existence of various connections between several local winds that have not been reported previously. In total, this article lists 27 different local winds above the Balkans with 17 and 10 being coastal and inland winds, respectively. By far, the most researched local wind in the Balkans has been the Adriatic bora that blows along the Croatian coast. Interestingly, there are more papers investigating bora than the number of studies on all other winds in the Balkans. Local winds over the Adriatic have been explored more than the winds above the Aegean, and these, in turn, were investigated more often than the winds that blow over the Ionian and Black Seas. The most researched inland wind is the koshava wind that blows over the northern and central Serbia. Typical synoptic situations for most local winds are also provided with the note that the synoptic precursors of few local winds have not previously been documented. Lastly, this article discusses the prospects for further research in this field with the emphasis on the investigation of potential relationships between different local winds in this region.
Creative Failure: Why Can't People Solve Creative Problems
Authors: Mumford Michael D. , Martin Robert , Elliott Samantha , McIntosh Tristan
Published: August 2018

Although people attempt many creative problem solutions, in general, most creative problem‐solving efforts, at least real‐world efforts, fail. In the present effort, we examine the reasons creative problem‐solving efforts typically fail. We argue that creative problem‐solving efforts fail, in part, due to the fundamental nature of the kinds of problems that call for creative thought. However, the nature of people's creative problem‐solving skills and the context in which they attempt to develop and implement creative problem solutions also results in failed attempts to solve creative problems. Based on these observations, we discuss how one might seek to develop people to encourage more success in creative problem‐solving efforts.
Ultrasound of peripheral nerves in neuralgic amyotrophy
Authors: van Rosmalen Marieke , Lieba‐Samal Doris , Pillen Sigrid , van Alfen Nens
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Neuralgic amyotrophy (NA) can often be difficult to diagnose. Nerve ultrasound (US) is potentially useful, but it is operator‐dependent, especially for small nerves. Methods: Fifty‐one consecutive patients with NA (mean duration 16 months) and 50 control subjects underwent US of the brachial plexus and major nerves of the upper extremity at predefined sites. We compared cross‐sectional areas (CSAs) of affected and unaffected sides with controls and sides within patients. Results: The median nerve and radial nerve at the level of the upper arm were enlarged on the affected sides compared with controls and the unaffected sides of patients. Enlargement was most pronounced for affected sides vs. controls (median 44%, radial 67%). Discussion: NA patients showed increased CSAs, especially in the major nerves of the upper limb, even after longer disease duration. This could make US a useful adjunct in diagnosing NA. Muscle Nerve 59:55–59, 2019
Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition signature assessment in colorectal cancer quantifies tumour stromal content rather than true transition
Authors: McCorry Amy MB , Loughrey Maurice B , Longley Daniel B , Lawler Mark , Dunne Philip D
Published: August 2018

The process of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer is a well‐described process whereby epithelial tumour cells undergo molecular/phenotypic changes and transition to a mesenchymal biology. To aid in the transcriptional characterisation of this process, gene expression signatures have been developed that attribute a relative EMT score to samples in a given cohort. We demonstrate how such EMT signatures can identify epithelial cell line models with high levels of transition but also highlight that, unsurprisingly, fibroblast cell lines, which are inherently mesenchymal, have a higher EMT score relative to any epithelial cell line studied. In line with these data, we demonstrate how increased tumour stromal composition, and reduced epithelial cellularity, significantly correlates with increasing EMT signature score, which is evident using either in silico subtyping analysis (p < 0.00001) or in situ histopathological characterisation (p < 0.001). Considered together, these results reinforce the importance not only of interdisciplinary research to correctly define the nature of EMT biology but also the requirement for a cadre of multidisciplinary researchers who can analyse and interpret the underlying pathological, bioinformatic and molecular data that are essential for advancing our understanding of the malignant process. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Domperidone for insufficient lactation in England 2002‐2015: A drug utilization study with interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Mehrabadi Azar , Reynier Pauline , Platt Robert W. , Filion Kristian B.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Our aim was to describe trends in the prescription of domperidone for insufficient lactation in England, the characteristics of women prescribed it postpartum, and the impact of a 2014 European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommendation to restrict its use due to a potential increased risk of sudden cardiac death associated with its use.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based cohort study with interrupted time series analysis using data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink linked to Hospital Episode Statistics. We identified women with live births from 2002 to 2015, excluding those with nonlactation indications for domperidone (n = 247 349). We evaluated trends in the prescription rate of domperidone in the 6 months postpartum and differences in this rate before and after the EMA recommendation.

Results

Domperidone was prescribed among 1438 deliveries at a rate of 1.24 per 100 person‐years. This rate increased from 0.56 to 2.1 per 100 person‐years between 2002‐2004 and 2011‐2013 (rate ratio: 3.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.2‐4.6). Prescribing decreased in level by 0.35 (95% CI, −0.86 to 0.16) per 100 person‐years immediately following the recommendation with little change in trend (0.003; 95% CI, −0.059 to 0.065 per 100 person‐years). Following the recommendation, prescription of doses >30 mg and coprescription of drugs with a risk of torsade de pointes decreased. No arrhythmic events were observed among domperidone users.

Conclusions

Although we observed an important increase in prescribing during the study period, domperidone remains infrequently prescribed postpartum in England. While overall prescribing changed little, some prescribing practices became more restricted following the EMA's recommendation.
Limited genetic structure and demographic expansion of theBrassicogethes aeneuspopulations in France and in Europe
Authors: Juhel Amandine S , Barbu Corentin M , Valantin‐Morison Muriel , Gauffre Bertrand , Leblois Raphaël , Olivares Jérôme , Franck Pierre
Published: August 2018

Background

The pollen beetle,Brassicogethes aeneus(Fabricius, 1775), is one of the most significant pests of oilseed rape. To shed light on past and current pollen beetle demography (dispersal, population size), 12 microsatellite markers were developed, and population genetic diversity and structure were analysed at different spatial scales in France and in Europe from 433 individuals collected in 18 winter oilseed rape fields.

Results

Genetic differentiation among the population samples was low but was significant between the Estonian sample and the rest of Europe. Isolation by distance was significant only at the European scale. Genetic variability was similar among the 18 population samples. Demographic inferences suggested a recent expansion ofB. aeneuspopulation size over Europe, possibly corresponding to an increase in oilseed rape crop area during past decades.

Conclusion

Current population size and dispersal are not straightforward to estimate from the distribution of genetic variability inB. aeneusover Europe because of the complexity of the demographic history of this pest. Nevertheless, because gene flow was important enough to prevent strong genetic differentiation at large geographical scales, the management of pollen beetle populations should likely be thought of at a continental Europe level. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Remain or return home: The migration intentions of first‐generation migrants in Italy
Authors: Bonifazi Corrado , Paparusso Angela
Published: August 2018

Investigating future migration intentions as a proxy of future migration behaviours is useful to capture a more complete understanding of the entire migration process. This also allows a fuller consideration of the policy implications of these intentions for the origin and destination countries. The aim of this paper is to analyse the individual factors associated with the return migration intentions of first‐generation migrants living in Italy, a new immigration country, whose migrants' return intentions have been little explored so far. We use data from the survey on the “Social Condition and Integration of Foreign Citizens” carried out by ISTAT in 2011–2012, and we apply a binary logistic regression model. The results show both the complexity and the interconnection of the factors associated with return migration intentions and that migration projects, histories, and goals count more than legal status for return intentions. Moreover, results prove that return migration intentions are influenced by conflicting processes, whose outcomes are not always easy to schematize: integration is a factor that tends to strengthen the ties with the country of residence, whereas transnationalism reinforces those with the country of origin. These factors should be considered by policymakers, especially when immigration assumes a crucial role in the receiving countries' labour market structure and population dynamics, such as in the case of Italy. Different migratory backgrounds, profiles, histories, and projects will require in‐depth examination by scientists and policymakers, because the long‐term ability and willingness of a host country to attract and retain migrants should be adapted accordingly.
Small‐Sized Bimetallic CuPd Nanoclusters Encapsulated Inside Cavity of NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr) with Superior Performance for Light‐Induced Suzuki Coupling Reaction
Authors: Sun Dengrong , Xu Mengpeng , Jiang Yongteng , Long Jinlin , Li Zhaohui
Published: August 2018

Bimetallic CuPd nanoclusters with a small size of ≈0.9 nm are encapsulated inside cavities of NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr) via double‐solvent impregnation, followed by a reduction process with NaBH4. As compared with monometallic Pd@NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr), bimetallic CuPd@NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr) shows superior performance for light‐induced Suzuki coupling reaction since the introduced Cu acts as an electron mediator to facilitate the transfer of photogenerated electrons from light‐excited NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr) to Pd, to form electron‐rich Pd. Moreover, CuPd@NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr) also shows higher activity than CuPd/NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr), in which CuPd nanoparticles are deposited on the surface of NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr). The as‐obtained CuPd@NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr) is stable and can be applied in the coupling of a variety of substituted iodobenzenes and phenylboronic acids. The simultaneous encapsulation of metallic Pd and Cu, acting as a catalytic active site and mediator respectively, inside the cavities of NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr), represents a novel strategy for designing multifunctional metal‐organic framework based catalysts for light‐induced organic reactions.
c-MPL Is a Candidate Surface Marker and Confers Self-Renewal, Quiescence, Chemotherapy Resistance, and Leukemia Initiation Potential in Leukemia Stem Cells
Authors: Li Huan , Zhao Na , Li Yihui , Xing Haiyan , Chen Shuying , Xu Yingxi , Tang Kejing , Tian Zheng , Wang Min , Rao Qing , Wang Jianxiang
Published: August 2018

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is initiated and maintained by a unique, small subset of leukemia cells known as leukemia stem cells (LSCs). Self-renewal, quiescence, and chemotherapy resistance are key stemness properties of LSCs that are essential for poor clinical responses to conventional therapies. Identifying LSC surface markers and targeting LSCs are important for the development of potential therapies. In this study, application of chemotherapy treatment in AML-ETO9a (AE9a) leukemia mice led to the enrichment of a chemotherapy-resistant cell population identified as Lin−c-Kit+c-MPL+. In addition, this c-MPL-positive cell population within Lin−c-Kit+ leukemia cells included a high percentage of cells in a quiescent state, enhanced colony formation ability, and increased homing efficiency. Serial transplantation demonstrated that Lin−c-Kit+c-MPL+ cells displayed a significantly high potential for leukemia initiation. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that in AML patients, c-MPL was expressed on the majority of CD34+ leukemia cells and that the proportion of c-MPL+ cells in CD34+ leukemia cells is associated with poor prognosis. Finally, AMM2, an inhibitor of c-MPL, was shown to significantly enhance the survival of AE9a leukemia mice when combined with chemotherapeutic agent. These results indicate that c-MPL is a candidate LSC surface marker that may serve as a therapeutic target for the elimination of LSCs.
Perspectives of Microwaves‐Enhanced Heterogeneous Catalytic Gas‐Phase Processes in Flow Systems
Authors: Stankiewicz Andrzej , Sarabi Farnaz Eghbal , Baubaid Abdul , Yan Peng , Nigar Hakan
Published: August 2018

The paper discusses the currents status and future perspectives of the utilization of microwaves, as a selective and locally controlled heating method, in heterogeneous catalytic flow reactors. Various factors related to the microwave‐catalyst interaction and the design of microwave‐assisted catalytic reactor systems are analyzed. The analysis clearly shows the superiority of the traveling‐wave systems over the mono‐mode and multi‐mode cavity‐based systems when it comes to the design and application of microwave flow reactors at relevant production scales.
Influence of oil aging on the motion characteristics of cellulose particles and conductivity in contaminated mineral oil and natural ester under DC electric field
Authors: Liao Ruijin , Dan Min , Hao Jian , Yang Lijun , Li Yanqing
Published: August 2018

Natural esters are beginning to be utilized as transformer oil, so certain problems happening during their operation need to be solved urgently. To explore the effect of pollution on the insulation performance of oil, in this paper we investigate the motion characteristics of cellulose particles and conductivity in a mineral oil and a natural ester. The influence of oil aging, DC electric filed strength, and moisture content of the cellulose particles is considered. It is found hat with increasing electric field strength, aging of the oil, and moisture of the particles, the motion of cellulose particles becomes more obvious. The bridging velocity becomes higher and stable bridges grow more compact. The saturation current in the contaminated oil increases exponentially with the electric field strength. The saturation current in the contaminated natural ester is smaller than that in the contaminated mineral oil under the same electric field and particle concentration, especially when the oil is aged. For the mineral oil, the ratio of the conductivity current in contaminated oil to that in clean oil is higher under a lower electric field. However, the situation is opposite in the case of the natural ester. Fewer cellulose bridges and lower saturation current imply that the natural ester has a better insulation property and resistance to pollution. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Hybrid fluid models from mutual effective metric couplings
Authors: Kurkela Aleksi , Mukhopadhyay Ayan , Preis Florian , Rebhan Anton , Soloviev Alexander
Published: August 2018

Abstract

Motivated by a semi-holographic approach to the dynamics of quark-gluon plasma which combines holographic and perturbative descriptions of a strongly coupled infrared and a more weakly coupled ultraviolet sector, we construct a hybrid two-fluid model where interactions between its two sectors are encoded by their effective metric backgrounds, which are determined mutually by their energy-momentum tensors. We derive the most general consistent ultralocal interactions such that the full system has a total conserved energy-momentum tensor in flat Minkowski space and study its consequences in and near thermal equilibrium by working out its phase structure and its hydrodynamic modes.
A realistic U(2) model of flavor
Authors: Linster Matthias , Ziegler Robert
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We propose a simple U(2) model of flavor compatible with an SU(5) GUT structure. All hierarchies in fermion masses and mixings arise from powers of two small parameters that control the U(2) breaking. In contrast to previous U(2) models this setup can be realized without supersymmetry and provides an excellent fit to all SM flavor observables including neutrinos. We also consider a variant of this model based on a D
6 × U(1)
F
flavor symmetry, which closely resembles the U(2) structure, but allows for Majorana neutrino masses from the Weinberg operator. Remarkably, in this case one naturally obtains large mixing angles in the lepton sector from small mixing angles in the quark sector. The model also offers a natural option for addressing the Strong CP Problem and Dark Matter by identifying the Goldstone boson of the U(1)
F
factor as the QCD axion.
Time to Readmission and Mortality Among Patients Undergoing Liver and Pancreatic Surgery
Authors: Chen Qinyu , Bagante Fabio , Olsen Griffin , Merath Katiuscha , Idrees Jay J. , Beal Eliza W. , Akgul Ozgur , Cloyd Jordan , Dillhoff Mary , Schmidt Carl , White Susan , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: August 2018

Background

The impact of time to readmission (TTR) on post‐discharge mortality has not been well examined. We sought to define the impact of TTR on postoperative mortality after liver or pancreas surgery.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis of liver and pancreas surgical patients was conducted using 2013–2015 Medicare Provider Analysis and Review database. Patients were subdivided into TTR groups: 1–5 days, 6–15, 15–30, 31–60, 61–90, and no readmission. The association of index complication, readmission causes, TTR, and mortality was assessed.

Results

Among 18,177 patients, a total of 4485 (24.7%) patients were readmitted within 90 days of discharge. Major causes for readmission differed across TTR groups. Patients readmitted within 1–15 days were more likely to be readmitted for postoperative infection compared with patients who had a late readmission (1–5 days: 63.1% vs. 6–15 days: 65.0% vs. 61–90 days: 39.3%; P < 0.001). In contrast, causes of late readmissions were more likely related to gastrointestinal complications (1–5 days: 28.9% vs. 61–90 days: 39.7%; P < 0.001). Compared with no readmission, 180‐day mortality was highest among patients readmitted within 16–30 days (aOR 3.60; 95% CI 2.94–4.41). Among patients with index complications, patients who were readmitted within 1–5 days had a higher risk‐adjusted 180‐day mortality than late readmission (1–5 days: 37.3% vs. 61–90 days: 27.1%) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Among patients who were readmitted, the incidence of mortality increased with TTR up to 60 days after discharge yet decreased thereafter. The relation of TTR and mortality was particularly pronounced among those patients who had an index complication. Future efforts should consider TTR when identifying specific approaches to decrease readmission.
Are miserly budgets putting businesses at risk of cyber-attack?
Authors: Brown Tim
Published: August 2018

If you perform a search of the term ‘ransomware’ on Google, you will see two things. The first is a definition of WannaCry, the ransomware attack that, on 12 May 2017, spread around the world and affected hundreds of targets, including public utilities, large corporations and, most notably, crippled the NHS in the UK. 1 But you'll also see a series of news stories and, regardless of what day you type ‘ransomware’ into the search bar, you're likely to see stories of attacks from just days ago, or, in some cases, just hours ago.

All businesses are at risk of cyber-attacks that are all too often successful. Is this due to a lack of budget, or are budgets being spent in the wrong way? Would simply spending more money be enough to help?

All businesses face budget pressures – which means they need to understand how to spend their budgets wisely. And this is where managed service providers (MSPs) can play a crucial role. Tim Brown of SolarWinds explains how MSPs can supply the skills and expertise to ensure that businesses have the right combination of technology and personnel.
Nation-state hacking – a threat to everyone
Authors: Mansfield-Devine Steve
Published: August 2018

The notion of skilled hackers in the employ of national governments has long been a nightmare. But that bad dream became a reality years ago, and the use of cyber-attacks to support political goals has been concentrating the minds of those information security specialists charged with protecting the networks of organisations and governments. Lately, though, the tempo seems to have increased. From election meddling to bringing down power grids, nation-state hacking has moved into the headlines. So what is the scale of this activity and who should be concerned about it? In this interview, Simon Townsend, CTO at Ivanti, makes the case that this is an issue that affects every organisation.
The challenge of making nudging attractive to politicians
Authors: O'DONNELL GUS
Published: August 2018

This article discusses some of the political barriers to the adaption of behavioural approaches to public policy. It contrasts the increasing acceptance of behavioural ideas in the civil service with the limited enthusiasm displayed, so far, by politicians. It also suggests that more attention should be focused on the impact of those affected by behavioural initiatives.
7-Hydroxymatairesinol improves body weight, fat and sugar metabolism in C57BJ/6 mice on a high-fat diet
Authors: Biasiotto Giorgio , Zanella Isabella , Predolini Federica , Archetti Ivonne , Cadei Moris , Monti Eugenio , Luzzani Marcello , Pacchetti Barbara , Mozzoni Paola , Andreoli Roberta , De Palma Giuseppe , Serana Federico , Smeds Annika , Di Lorenzo Diego
Published: August 2018

7-Hydroxymatairesinol (7-HMR) is a plant lignan abundant in various concentrations in plant foods. The objective of this study was to test HMRLignan™, a purified form of 7-HMR, and the correspondingPicea abiesextract (total extractP. abies; TEP) as dietary supplements on a background of a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic syndrome in mice and in the 3T3-L1 adipogenesis model. Mice, 3 weeks old, were fed a HFD for 60 d. Subgroups were treated with 3 mg/kg body weight 7-HMR (HMRLignan™) or 10 mg/kg body weight TEP by oral administration. 7-HMR and TEP limited the increase in body weight (−11 and −13 %) and fat mass (−11 and −18 %) in the HFD-fed mice. Epididymal adipocytes were 19 and −12 % smaller and the liver was less steatotic (−62 and −65 %). Serum lipids decreased in TEP-treated mice (−11 % cholesterol, −23 % LDL and −15 % TAG) and sugar metabolism was ameliorated by both lignan preparations, as shown by a more than 70 % decrease in insulin secretion and insulin resistance. The expression of several metabolic genes was modulated by the HFD with an effect that was reversed by lignan. In 3T3-L1 cells, the 7-HMR metabolites enterolactone (ENL) and enterodiol (END) showed a 40 % inhibition of cell differentiation accompanied by the inhibited expression of the adipogenic genesPPARγ,C/EBPαandaP2. Furthermore, END and ENL caused a 10 % reduction in TAG uptake in HEPA 1–6 hepatoma cells. In conclusion, 7-HMR and TEP reduce metabolic imbalances typical of the metabolic syndrome and obesity in male mice, whereas their metabolites inhibit adipogenesis and lipid uptakein vitro.
On the General Solution of the Heideman–Hogan Family of Recurrences
Authors: Hone Andrew N. W. , Ward Chloe
Published: August 2018

We consider a family of nonlinear rational recurrences of odd order which was introduced by Heideman and Hogan, and recently rediscovered in the theory of Laurent phenomenon algebras (a generalization of cluster algebras). All of these recurrences have the Laurent property, implying that for a particular choice of initial data (all initial values set to 1) they generate an integer sequence. For these particular sequences, Heideman and Hogan gave a direct proof of integrality by showing that the terms of the sequence also satisfy a linear recurrence relation with constant coefficients. Here we present an analogous result for the general solution of each of these recurrences.
Maternal preconception weight trajectories, pregnancy complications and offspring’s childhood physical and cognitive development
Authors: Adane A. A. , Mishra G. D. , Tooth L. R.
Published: August 2018

There is limited evidence on the association between maternal preconception body mass index (BMI) trajectories and pregnancy complications and child development. This study examined the relationships of maternal BMI trajectories, diabetes and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy and offspring’s childhood physical and cognitive development. Data were from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health and the Mothers and their Children’s Health study (n=771). Women’s preconception BMI trajectories were identified using group-based trajectory modelling. Children’s physical and cognitive development (up to the average age of 5 years) were obtained from the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (suspected gross motor delay) and the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC). Generalized estimating equation models, adjusted for maternal sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, were used for analyses. Three distinct BMI trajectories were identified (normative, chronically overweight and chronically obese). Children born to chronically obese women were more likely to be classified as developmentally vulnerable/at-risk on AEDC domains; gross and fine motor skills [risk ratio (RR)=1.64, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04, 2.61] and communication skills and general knowledge (RR=1.71, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.68). They also had an elevated risk of suspected gross motor delay (RR=2.62, 95% CI: 1.26, 5.44) compared with children born to women with a normative BMI trajectory. Maternal diabetes or hypertensive disorders during pregnancy were not associated with child outcomes. Maternal preconception BMI trajectories were associated with poorer childhood development. This study finding underscores the importance of excessive weight gain prevention throughout the reproductive stage of life.
Fracture Advancing Step Tectonics Observed in the Yuha Desert and Ocotillo, CA, Following the 2010 Mw7.2 El Mayor‐Cucapah Earthquake
Authors: Donnellan Andrea , Parker Jay , Heflin Michael , Lyzenga Gregory , Moore Angelyn , Ludwig Lisa Grant , Rundle John , Wang Jun , Pierce Marlon
Published: August 2018

Uninhabited aerial vehicle synthetic aperture radar (UAVSAR) observations 2009–2017 of the Yuha Desert area and Global Positioning System (GPS) time series encompassing the region reveal a northward migrating pattern of deformation following the 4 April 2010 Mw7.2 El Mayor‐Cucapah (EMC) earthquake. The north end of the EMC rupture exhibits an asymmetric pattern of deformation that is substantial and smooth northeast of the rupture and limited but with surface fracturing slip northwest. The earthquake triggered ~1 cm of surface coseismic slip at the Yuha fault, which continued to slip postseismically. 2.5 cm of Yuha fault slip occurred by the time of the 15 June 2010 Mw5.7 Ocotillo aftershock and 5 cm of slip occurred by 2017 following a logarithmic afterslip decay 16‐day timescale. The Ocotillo aftershock triggered 1.4 cm of slip on a northwest trend extending to the Elsinore fault and by 7 years after the EMC earthquake 2.4 cm of slip had accumulated with a distribution following an afterslip function with a 16‐day timescale consistent with other earthquakes and a rate strengthening upper crustal sedimentary layer. GPS data show broad coseismic uplift of the Salton Trough and delayed postseismic motion that may be indicative of fluid migration there and subsidence west of the rupture extension, which continues following the earthquake. The data indicate that the Elsinore, Laguna Salada, and EMC ruptures are part of the same fault system. The results also suggest that north‐south shortening and east‐west extension across the region drove fracture advancing step tectonics north of the EMC earthquake rupture.
Elucidation of glutamine lipid biosynthesis in marine bacteria reveals its importance under phosphorus deplete growth in Rhodobacteraceae
Authors: Smith Alastair F , Rihtman Branko , Stirrup Rachel , Silvano Eleonora , Mausz Michaela A , Scanlan David J , Chen Yin
Published: August 2018

Marine microorganisms employ multiple strategies to cope with transient and persistent nutrient limitation, one of which, for alleviating phosphorus (P) stress, is to substitute membrane glycerophospholipids with non-P containing surrogate lipids. Such a membrane lipid remodelling strategy enables the most abundant marine phytoplankton and heterotrophic bacteria to adapt successfully to nutrient scarcity in marine surface waters. An important group of non-P lipids, the aminolipids which lack a diacylglycerol backbone, are poorly studied in marine microbes. Here, using a combination of genetic, lipidomics and metagenomics approaches, we reveal for the first time the genes (glsB, olsA) required for the formation of the glutamine-containing aminolipid. Construction of a knockout mutant in either glsB or olsA in the model marine bacterium Ruegeria pomeroyi DSS-3 completely abolished glutamine lipid production. Moreover, both mutants showed a considerable growth cost under P-deplete conditions and the olsA mutant, that is unable to produce the glutamine and ornithine aminolipids, ceased to grow under P-deplete conditions. Analysis of sequenced microbial genomes show that glsB is primarily confined to the Rhodobacteraceae family, which includes the ecologically important marine Roseobacter clade that are key players in the marine sulphur and nitrogen cycles. Analysis of the genes involved in glutamine lipid biosynthesis in the Tara ocean metagenome dataset revealed the global occurrence of glsB in marine surface waters and a positive correlation between glsB abundance and N* (a measure of the deviation from the canonical Redfield ratio), suggesting glutamine lipid plays an important role in the adaptation of marine Rhodobacteraceae to P limitation.
Riluzole reduces amyloid beta pathology, improves memory, and restores gene expression changes in a transgenic mouse model of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Okamoto Masahiro , Gray Jason D. , Larson Chloe S. , Kazim Syed Faraz , Soya Hideaki , McEwen Bruce S. , Pereira Ana C.
Published: August 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents a major healthcare burden with no effective treatment. The glutamate modulator, riluzole, was shown to reverse many AD-related gene expression changes and improve cognition in aged rats. However, riluzole’s effect on amyloid beta (Aβ) pathology, a major histopathological hallmark of AD, remains unclear. 5XFAD transgenic mice, which harbor amyloid β precursor protein (APP) and presenilin mutations and exhibit early Aβ accumulation, were treated with riluzole from 1 to 6 months of age. Riluzole significantly enhanced cognition and reduced Aβ42, Aβ40, Aβ oligomers levels, and Aβ plaque load in 5XFAD mice. RNA-Sequencing showed that riluzole reversed many gene expression changes observed in the hippocampus of 5XFAD mice, predominantly in expression of canonical gene markers for microglia, specifically disease-associated microglia (DAM), as well as neurons and astrocytes. Central to the cognitive improvements observed, riluzole reversed alterations in NMDA receptor subunits gene expression, which are essential for learning and memory. These data demonstrate that riluzole exerts a disease modifying effect in an Aβ mouse model of early-onset familial AD.
Ancient DNA from Chalcolithic Israel reveals the role of population mixture in cultural transformation
Authors: Harney Éadaoin , May Hila , Shalem Dina , Rohland Nadin , Mallick Swapan , Lazaridis Iosif , Sarig Rachel , Stewardson Kristin , Nordenfelt Susanne , Patterson Nick , Hershkovitz Israel , Reich David
Published: August 2018

The material culture of the Late Chalcolithic period in the southern Levant (4500–3900/3800 BCE) is qualitatively distinct from previous and subsequent periods. Here, to test the hypothesis that the advent and decline of this culture was influenced by movements of people, we generated genome-wide ancient DNA from 22 individuals from Peqi’in Cave, Israel. These individuals were part of a homogeneous population that can be modeled as deriving ~57% of its ancestry from groups related to those of the local Levant Neolithic, ~17% from groups related to those of the Iran Chalcolithic, and ~26% from groups related to those of the Anatolian Neolithic. The Peqi’in population also appears to have contributed differently to later Bronze Age groups, one of which we show cannot plausibly have descended from the same population as that of Peqi’in Cave. These results provide an example of how population movements propelled cultural changes in the deep past.
Biomimetic nanoflowers by self-assembly of nanozymes to induce intracellular oxidative damage against hypoxic tumors
Authors: Wang Zhenzhen , Zhang Yan , Ju Enguo , Liu Zhen , Cao Fangfang , Chen Zhaowei , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: August 2018

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced apoptosis is a promising treatment strategy for malignant neoplasms. However, current systems are highly dependent on oxygen status and/or external stimuli to generate ROS, which greatly limit their therapeutic efficacy particularly in hypoxic tumors. Herein, we develop a biomimetic nanoflower based on self-assembly of nanozymes that can catalyze a cascade of intracellular biochemical reactions to produce ROS in both normoxic and hypoxic conditions without any external stimuli. In our formulation, PtCo nanoparticles are firstly synthesized and used to direct the growth of MnO2. By adjusting the ratio of reactants, highly-ordered MnO2@PtCo nanoflowers with excellent catalytic efficiency are obtained, where PtCo behaves as oxidase mimic and MnO2 functions as catalase mimic. In this way, the well-defined MnO2@PtCo nanoflowers not only can relieve hypoxic condition but also induce cell apoptosis significantly through ROS-mediated mechanism, thereby resulting in remarkable and specific inhibition of tumor growth.