bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of moist‐heat treatments on color improvement, physicochemical, antioxidant, and resistant starch properties of drum‐dried purple sweet potato powder
Authors: Nevara Gita Addelia , Yea Chay Shyan , Karim Roselina , Muhammad Kharidah , Mohd Ghazali Hasanah
Published: November 2018

Purple sweet potato (PSP) is sensorially attractive and rich in a valuable source called “anthocyanins,” but this tuberous crop is highly perishable. It is largely found in hot and humid countries, such as the South East Asia region. This study applied the drum drying technique to turn PSP into a shelf‐stable powder product, wherein an issue related to severe discolouration (browning) was identified. Hence, two moist‐heat pretreatments, namely boiling and steaming, were performed prior to drum drying. The effects of pretreatment on color changes, physicochemical, antioxidant, and resistant starch properties in the final product were analyzed. Both pretreatments had successfully retained the purplish color in the final product, in which steaming displayed better effects when compared with boiling in powder yield (243.02 g/100 g vs. 180.87 g/100 g), total anthocyanin content (121.71 mg/100 g vs. 83.72 mg/100 g), and resistant starch content (3.06 g/100 g vs. 2.53 g/100 g). The study outcomes demonstrated the capability of steaming in producing PSP powder that retained the original color and the health‐promoting compounds (i.e., anthocyanins and resistant starch), which appeared to be better than boiling, thus pretreatment on PSP prior to drum drying is highly recommended.

Practical applications

This study successfully tackles the browning issue identified in purple sweet potato processing, via two simple and straightforward heating methods; boiling and steaming. The tuber is turned into a shelf‐stable, ready‐to‐use powder that acts as a thickener in soups, bakeries and fabricated snacks. The final powder product displays an attractive purplish color, exceptional functionality (in terms of water absorption capacity) and is loaded with health‐promoting compounds including antioxidant and resistant starch. These findings proved that moist‐heat treatments retain the purplish color, anthocyanins and resistant starch content in drum‐dried purple sweet potato powder well and provide additional health benefits besides acting as an ordinary food thickener.
Perception of biological motions is preserved in people with autism spectrum disorder: electrophysiological and behavioural evidences
Authors: Sotoodeh M. S. , Taheri‐Torbati H. , Sohrabi M. , Ghoshuni M.
Published: November 2018

Background

There have been some controversies over the ability of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to perceive biological motion. In this study, we used electroencephalography and behavioural measures (recognition test) to examine whether or not children with ASD can correctly identify biological motion.

Method

Twenty participants with ASD (mean = 11.3, SD = 2.1 years) and 20 typically developed (TD) participants (mean = 11.4, SD = 2.8 years) participated in the study. They watched videos and point light displays of actions, and their EEG was recorded. Then they answered action recognition test, and their accuracy and response times were recorded.

Results

Our findings showed that children with ASD had the same mu suppression as a TD age‐matched control group in both point light display and video presentations. Furthermore, the results showed that while TD and ASD groups did not differ in accuracy, ASD participants had a slower reaction time.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results indicate that the perception of non‐emotional BMs is preserved in children with ASD.
Effects of a topical lotion containing aminophylline, caffeine, yohimbe, l‐carnitine, and gotu kola on thigh circumference, skinfold thickness, and fat mass in sedentary females
Authors: Escalante Guillermo , Bryan Patrick , Rodriguez Juan
Published: November 2018

Background and objective

Topical aminophylline, caffeine, yohimbe, l‐carnitine, and gotu kola (Centella asiatica) may aid in reducing body fat. Lipoxyderm™ contains these ingredients and was used to test if fat loss of the thigh, in conjunction with a low intensity exercise program and restricted calorie intake, was enhanced via the topical application of this lotion.

Methods

This was a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, within‐group study that investigated the effects of Lipoxyderm™ on thigh fat mass, circumference, and skinfold thickness. Seven participants underwent pre/post‐exercise testing for weight, bilateral thigh circumference/skinfold thickness, and body composition/thigh fat mass assessment via dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Participants followed a hypocaloric diet, walked 150 minutes/wk, and were randomly assigned to apply a placebo to one leg and Lipoxyderm™ to their other leg for 28 days. Separate two‐way mixed factorial repeated measures ANOVAs were used to compare the effects of Lipoxyderm™ to the placebo on thigh circumference, skinfold thickness, and fat mass.

Results

A significant time x group interaction was found for thigh circumference (F1,6 = 18.2, P = 0.005), skinfold thickness (F1,6 = 14.6, P = 0.009), and fat mass (F1,6 = 37.1, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

A twice‐daily topical application of Lipoxyderm™ for 28 days compared to a placebo combined with a walking program and a restricted caloric intake is more effective at reducing thigh circumference (1.2 vs 0.8 cm), thigh skinfold thickness (3.7 vs 2.0 mm), and thigh fat mass (100.0 g vs 57.3 g).
An open‐label, single‐site study to evaluate the tolerability, safety, and efficacy of using a novel facial moisturizer for preparation and accelerated healing pre and post a single full‐face radiofrequency microneedling treatment
Authors: Zahr Alisar S. , Kononov Tatiana , Sensing Whitney , Biron Julie A. , Gold Michael H.
Published: November 2018

Background

Skincare cosmeceutical products have been shown to address intrinsic and extrinsic skin aging. Radiofrequency (RF) with microneedling is effective and safe in improving skin laxity and texture. Pairing skincare cosmeceutical products pre‐ and post‐procedure is beneficial as it enhances patient results, patient results, patient experience, and reduces patient downtime.

Objective

To evaluate the tolerability, safety, and efficacy of a multi‐ingredient anti‐aging facial moisturizer when applied pre‐ and post‐procedure consisting of a single RF microneedling treatment.

Method

Fifteen female patients, aged 37‐60, Fitzpatrick skin types I‐IV, with mild‐to‐moderate wrinkles were included in the study. Patients applied a multi‐ingredient anti‐aging facial moisturizer twice a day (morning and night) two weeks prior to RF microneedling and four weeks post‐RF microneedling (twice a day). At each time point, investigator objective assessment, self‐assessments, and clinical photography were taken.

Result

There were no adverse events as evaluated by the investigator. For this combined treatment and procedure patient scored comfort as the highest for satisfaction. Tolerability parameters erythema and edema were reported after RF microneedling treatment and were significant compared to the pre‐procedure timepoint. Eighty percent of patients showed an improvement in Glogau Wrinkle Scale, but improvement was not statistically significant between baseline and end of study. Improvements in all skin attributes (radiance, tone, smoothness, texture, redness, dryness, and overall appearance) were statistically significant at the end of the study. Self‐perceived skin attribute improvements included overall improvement, brightness, texture, pigmentation, redness, and tightness. The combination of the anti‐aging facial moisturizer and RF microneedling was recommended by the patients in this study.

Conclusion

This clinical study positively supports the hypothesis that combining the multi‐ingredient anti‐aging facial moisturizer pre‐ and post‐RF microneedling was safe and tolerable for the patients.
Cerebral blood flow modulations during antisaccade preparation in chronic hypotension
Authors: Duschek Stefan , Hoffmann Alexandra , Montoro Casandra I. , Bair Angela , Reyes del Paso Gustavo A. , Ettinger Ulrich
Published: November 2018

In addition to symptoms including fatigue, dizziness, reduced drive, or mood disturbance, individuals with chronic low blood pressure (hypotension) frequently report cognitive complaints. While attentional deficits have been empirically confirmed, it is still unknown whether the impairments also encompass executive functions. This study investigated cerebral blood flow modulations in hypotension during a precued antisaccade/prosaccade task requiring the executive function of proactive inhibition in addition to preparatory attention. Using functional transcranial Doppler sonography, bilateral blood flow velocities in the middle cerebral arteries (MCA) were recorded in 39 hypotensive and 40 normotensive participants. In the task, a stimulus appeared left or right of a fixation point 5 s after a cuing stimulus; subjects had to move their gaze to the mirror image position of the stimulus (antisaccade) or toward it (prosaccade control condition). Video‐based eye tracking was used for ocular recording. A right dominant MCA blood flow increase arose during task preparation, which was smaller in hypotensive than normotensive participants. In addition, hypotensive participants exhibited lower peak velocity of the saccadic response. The extent of the reductions in blood flow and task performance in hypotension did not differ between antisaccade and prosaccade conditions. The smaller MCA flow increase may reflect reduced activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal and inferior parietal cortices during proactive inhibition and preparatory attention in hypotension. Given that group differences in blood flow and performance arose independent of task complexity and executive function load, hypotension may be characterized by basic attentional impairments rather than particular executive function deficits.
The Nation as Propertied Community: The Emergence of Nationalism in the United States and Norway
Authors: Fuglestad Eirik Magnus
Published: November 2018

This article engages in the debate about the origins and nature of nationalism. The argument is a modernist one, but it qualifies this narrative by focusing on landed property rights as the basis for the emergence and development of nationalism. The argument complements Ernest Gellner's theory of nationalism by suggesting that nationalism was at first a landed agrarian phenomenon which later became ideologically functional to industrial society due to its property assumptions. A historical‐sociological comparative analysis of land rights and national development in the United States and Norway between 1770 and 1884 forms the basis of the argument. The key point is that nationalism emerged as a consequence of the emergence of the more widespread individual ownership of land, which spawned the idea of national popular sovereignty. This original connection to property rights made nationalism ideologically functional for industrial society.
The changes of bamboo pulping waste water residuals in biological treatment process
Authors: Liang Long , Shi Ying Qiao , Fang Guigan , Pan Aixiang , Tian Qinwen , Ran Miao
Published: November 2018

The residuals of the bamboo pulping wastewater were analysed systematically. The COD (chemical oxygen demand) decreased significantly by adding appropriate coagulant (1.5 kg/m3 10% Al2 (SO4)3 as coagulant and 2 mg/L anionic PAM as coagulant aid) to the effluent in secondary sedimentation tank. The study found that hydrolytic bacteria in primary sedimentation tank and balancing tank may increase the ratio of BOD/COD and promote the release of ammonia nitrogen (NH3‐N), which was benefit to further degradation of organic pollutants by aerobic biological treatment. Through optimizing biochemical process and adjusting contents of nitrogen, phosphorus, and mineral elements, the effects of wastewater treatment has been greatly enhanced and the quality of discharged water could met the new national standard GB3544‐2008.
Enhancing the focused ion beam etch rate of Ag films by Joule heating
Authors: Sasaki Takahiro , Tohmyoh Hironori
Published: November 2018

In this paper, the authors report on using Joule heating to increase the etch rate of focused ion beam (FIB) for etching Ag films. FIB is widely used as a tool for processing micro/nanomaterials. In this process, material atoms are expelled when the ion beam is irradiated on the material surface. On the other hand, Joule heating has been used for the structural modification of small-scale materials. Because in the FIB etching, the atoms are expected to be easily expelled by decreasing the density of grain boundaries of a metal, the FIB etch rate of the metal might be enhanced by structural modification with Joule heating. In this research, an Ag film was subjected to current-stressing, and FIB etching was carried out. It was confirmed that grains in the film grew due to Joule heating and that the FIB etch rate for Ag increased. The authors showed that the FIB etch rate for Ag could be enhanced by Joule heating. The results of this study will help in developing metal etch processes for micro/nanomaterials.
Classical realization of the quantum Deutsch algorithm
Authors: Vianna Yohan , Barros Mariana R. , Hor-Meyll Malena
Published: November 2018

In the rapidly growing area of quantum information, the Deutsch algorithm is ubiquitous and, in most cases, the first one to be introduced to any student of this relatively new field of research. The reason for this historical relevance stems from the fact that, although extremely simple, the algorithm conveys all the main features of more complex quantum computations. In spite of its simplicity, the uncountable experimental realizations of the algorithm in a broad variety of physical systems are in general quite involved. The aim of this work is two-fold: to introduce the basic concepts of quantum computation for readers with just a minimum knowledge of quantum mechanics and to present a novel and entirely accessible implementation of a classical analogue of the quantum Deutsch algorithm. By employing only elementary optical devices, such as lenses and diode lasers, this experimental realization has a striking advantage over all previous implementations: it can easily be understood and reproduced in most basic undergraduate or even high-level school laboratories.
Will my student evaluations decrease if I adopt an active learning instructional strategy?
Authors: Henderson Charles , Khan Raquib , Dancy Melissa
Published: November 2018

College instructors are often afraid to use active learning instructional strategies because they fear that students may complain and/or give them lower evaluations of teaching. In this paper, we present data from a survey of 431 physics instructors who had attended the Physics and Astronomy New Faculty Workshop and who attempted to incorporate active learning into their introductory course. Nearly half of respondents (48%) felt that their student evaluations increased, one-third (32%) felt that their student evaluations had not been impacted, and one-fifth (20%) felt that their student evaluations decreased. Thus, contrary to common fears, for these instructors the most likely result from the incorporation of active learning was an increase in student evaluations.
Examining replicability of an otoacoustic measure of cochlear function during selective attention
Authors: Beim Jordan A. , Oxenham Andrew J. , Wojtczak Magdalena
Published: November 2018

Attention to a target stimulus within a complex scene often results in enhanced cortical representations of the target relative to the background. It remains unclear where along the auditory pathways attentional effects can first be measured. Anatomy suggests that attentional modulation could occur through corticofugal connections extending as far as the cochlea itself. Earlier attempts to investigate the effects of attention on human cochlear processing have revealed small and inconsistent effects. In this study, stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions were recorded from a total of 30 human participants as they performed tasks that required sustained selective attention to auditory or visual stimuli. In the first sample of 15 participants, emission magnitudes were significantly weaker when participants attended to the visual stimuli than when they attended to the auditory stimuli, by an average of 5.4 dB. However, no such effect was found in the second sample of 15 participants. When the data were pooled across samples, the average attentional effect was significant, but small (2.48 dB), with 12 of 30 listeners showing a significant effect, based on bootstrap analysis of the individual data. The results highlight the need for considering sources of individual differences and using large sample sizes in future investigations.
Characterization of the Mode of Action of Aurodox, a Type III Secretion System Inhibitor from Streptomyces goldiniensis
Authors: McHugh Rebecca E. , O’Boyle Nicky , Connolly James P. R. , Hoskisson Paul A. , Roe Andrew J.
Published: November 2018

Recent work has demonstrated that the polyketide natural product Aurodox from
Streptomyces goldiniensis
is able to block the pathogenesis of the murine pathogen
Citrobacter rodentium
. In this work, we aimed to gain a better understanding of the mechanism of action of the compound.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Requires Regulation of ESX-5 Secretion for Virulence in Irgm1-Deficient Mice
Authors: Elliott Sarah R. , White Dylan W. , Tischler Anna D.
Published: November 2018

The
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
type VII secretion system ESX-5, which has been implicated in virulence, is activated at the transcriptional level by the phosphate starvation-responsive Pst/SenX3-RegX3 signal transduction system. Deletion of
pstA1
, which encodes a Pst phosphate transporter component, causes constitutive activation of the response regulator RegX3, hypersecretion of ESX-5 substrates and attenuation in the mouse infection model.
Zebrafish Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Receptor Maintains Neutrophil Number and Function throughout the Life Span
Authors: Basheer Faiza , Rasighaemi Parisa , Liongue Clifford , Ward Alister C.
Published: November 2018

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor (G-CSFR), encoded by the
CSF3R
gene, represents a major regulator of neutrophil production and function in mammals, with inactivating extracellular mutations identified in a cohort of neutropenia patients unresponsive to G-CSF treatment. This study sought to elucidate the role of the zebrafish G-CSFR by generating mutants harboring these inactivating extracellular mutations using genome editing.
MinC N- and C-Domain Interactions Modulate FtsZ Assembly, Division Site Selection, and MinD-Dependent Oscillation in
Escherichia coli
Authors: LaBreck Christopher J. , Conti Joseph , Viola Marissa G. , Camberg Jodi L.
Published: November 2018

Bacterial cell division proceeds through the coordinated assembly of the FtsZ-ring, or Z-ring, at the site of division. Assembly of the Z-ring requires polymerization of FtsZ, which is regulated by several proteins in the cell. In
Escherichia coli
, the Min system, which contains MinC, MinD, and MinE proteins, exhibits polar oscillation and inhibits the assembly of FtsZ at nonseptal locations. Here, we identify regions on the surface of MinC that are important for contacting FtsZ and destabilizing FtsZ polymers.
Identification and Verification of Ubiquitin-Activated Bacterial Phospholipases
Authors: Tessmer Maxx H. , Anderson David M. , Pickrum Adam M. , Riegert Molly O. , Frank Dara W.
Published: November 2018

Bacterial phospholipases act as intracellular and extracellular enzymes promoting the destruction of phospholipid barriers and inflammation during infections. Identifying enzymes with a common mechanism of activation is an initial step in understanding structural and functional properties. These properties serve as critical information for the design of specific inhibitors to reduce enzymatic activity and ameliorate host cell death. In this study, we identify and verify cytotoxic PLA
2
enzymes from several bacterial pathogens. Similar to the founding member of the group, ExoU, these enzymes share the property of ubiquitin-mediated activation. The identification and validation of potential toxins from multiple bacterial species provide additional proteins from which to derive structural insights that could lead to paninhibitors useful for treating a variety of infections.
Draft Genome Sequences and Complete Sequences of Two Plasmids of Escherichia coli Strain BOq 01, a Multiple-Antibiotic-Resistant Strain Isolated from a Poultry Farm in Mexico
Authors: Hernández-Mendoza Armando , Rivera Mendoza Daniel , Moran-Vazquez Abimael , Dantán-González Edgar
Published: November 2018

We report here the draft genome sequence of
Escherichia coli
strain BOq 01, a bacterium isolated from a poultry farm; the genome includes two plasmids conferring antibiotic resistances. This bacterium has a GC content of 50.89% and a genome size of 4.6 Mb.
Full-Genome Sequence of Thalassotalea euphylliae H1, Isolated from a Montipora capitata Coral Located in Hawai’i
Authors: Summers Stephen , Freckelton Marnie L. , Nedved Brian T. , Rice Scott A. , Hadfield Michael G.
Published: November 2018

The isolate of
Thalassotalea euphylliae
H1 was collected from the surface of a
Montipora capitata
coral. The genome was assembled using long reads from a Nanopore MinION sequencer for scaffolding and complemented with short-read MiSeq sequences.
Draft Genome Sequence of “
Candidatus
Bathyarchaeota” Archaeon BE326-BA-RLH, an Uncultured Denitrifier and Putative Anaerobic Methanotroph from South Africa’s Deep Continental Biosphere
Authors: Harris Rachel L. , Lau Maggie C. Y. , Cadar Andreia , Bartlett Douglas H. , Cason Errol , van Heerden Esta , Onstott Tullis C.
Published: November 2018

Metagenomic sequencing of fracture fluid from South Africa recovered a nearly complete “
Candidatus
Bathyarchaeota” archaeon genome. The metagenome-assembled genome of BE326-BA-RLH contains genes involved in methane metabolism and dissimilatory nitrate reduction.
First Complete Genome Sequence of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica Serovar Worthington Strain CFSAN051295, Isolated from Pistachio
Authors: Haendiges Julie , Yao Kuan , Miller Jesse D. , Hoffmann Maria
Published: November 2018

We report here, using third-generation, single-molecule, real-time DNA sequencing, the first complete genome sequence of
Salmonella enterica
serovar Worthington CFSAN051295, isolated from pistachios in the United States. The genome consists of a single 4.9-Mb chromosome.
Nucleolar Relocalization of RBM14 by Influenza A Virus NS1 Protein
Authors: Beyleveld Grant , Chin Daniel J. , Moreno Del Olmo Elena , Carter Jade , Najera Isabel , Cillóniz Cristian , Shaw Megan L.
Published: November 2018

Influenza A virus (IAV) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) present major global disease burdens. There are high economic costs associated with morbidity as well as significant mortality rates, especially in developing countries, in children, and in the elderly. There are currently limited therapeutic options for these viruses, which underscores the need for novel research into virus biology that may lead to the discovery of new therapeutic approaches. This work extends existing research into host factors involved in virus replication and explores the interaction between IAV and one such host factor, RBM14. Further study to fully characterize this interaction may elucidate novel mechanisms used by the virus during its replication cycle and open new avenues for understanding virus biology.
Parameter-independent quark mass relation in the U(3) × U(3)′ model
Authors: Koide Yoshio , Nishiura Hiroyuki
Published: November 2018

Recently, we have proposed a quark mass matrix model based on U(3) × U(3)[Formula: see text] family symmetry, in which up- and down-quark mass matrices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are described only by complex parameters [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. When we use charged lepton masses as additional input values, we can successfully obtain predictions for quark masses and Cabibbo–Kobayashi–Maskawa mixing. Since we have only one complex parameter [Formula: see text] for each mass matrix [Formula: see text], we can obtain a parameter-independent mass relation by using three equations for [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]). In this paper, we investigate the parameter-independent feature of the quark mass relation in the model.
Cyclic cosmology and holographic entanglement entropy
Authors: Frampton P. H.
Published: November 2018

We discuss again the approach to cyclic cosmology based on the 2007 Baum–Frampton model. By introducing the relationship between entanglement entropy and space–time connectivity first introduced by Van Raamsdonck (2010) we show how vanishing entropy at the turnaround, and hence at the bounce after adiabatic contraction, can be better understood in this solution to the Tolman entropy conundrum.
On spin asymmetry in muon and tau decays
Authors: Arbuzov A. B. , Kopylova T. V. , Sklyarov I. K.
Published: November 2018

The angular asymmetry in decays of polarized muons and tau leptons is discussed. Both the standard [Formula: see text] Fermi model and the general parametrization via Michel parameters are considered. Numerical importance of contributions suppressed by charged lepton mass ratio is underlined. Contribution of the second order QED correction is estimated in the leading logarithm approximation.
Systems of BSDES with oblique reflection and related optimal switching problems
Authors: Topolewski Mateusz
Published: November 2018

We consider systems of backward stochastic differential equations with càdlàg upper barrier [Formula: see text] and oblique reflection from below driven by an increasing continuous function [Formula: see text]. Our equations are defined on general probability spaces with a filtration satisfying merely the usual assumptions of right continuity and completeness. We assume that the pair [Formula: see text] satisfies a Mokobodzki-type condition. We prove the existence of a solution for integrable terminal conditions and integrable quasi-monotone generators. Applications to the optimal switching problem are given.
OPINION-AWARE INFLUENCE MAXIMIZATION: HOW TO MAXIMIZE A FAVORITE OPINION IN A SOCIAL NETWORK?
Authors: KERMANI MEHRDAD AGHA MOHAMMAD ALI , GHESMATI REZA , JALAYER MASOUD
Published: November 2018

Influence maximization is a well-known problem in the social network analysis literature which is to find a small subset of seed nodes to maximize the diffusion or spread of information. The main application of this problem in the real-world is in viral marketing. However, the classic influence maximization is disabled to model the real-world viral marketing problem, since the effect of the marketing message content and nodes’ opinions have not been considered. In this paper, a modified version of influence maximization which is named as “opinion-aware influence maximization” (OAIM) problem is proposed to make the model more realistic. In this problem, the main objective is to maximize the spread of a desired opinion, by optimizing the message content, rather than the number of infected nodes, which leads to selection of the best set of seed nodes. A nonlinear bi-objective mathematical programming model is developed to model the considered problem. Some transformation techniques are applied to convert the proposed model to a linear single-objective mathematical programming model. The exact solution of the model in small datasets can be obtained by CPLEX algorithm. For the medium and large-scale datasets, a new genetic algorithm is proposed to cope with the size of the problem. Experimental results on some of the well-known datasets show the efficiency and applicability of the proposed OAIM model. In addition, the proposed genetic algorithm overcomes state-of-the-art algorithms.
Cues of Violent Intergroup Conflict Diminish Perceptions of Robotic Personhood
Authors: Holbrook Colin
Published: November 2018

Convergent lines of evidence indicate that anthropomorphic robots are represented using neurocognitive mechanisms typically employed in social reasoning about other people. Relatedly, a growing literature documents that contexts of threat can exacerbate coalitional biases in social perceptions. Integrating these research programs, the present studies test whether cues of violent intergroup conflict modulate perceptions of the intelligence, emotional experience, or overall personhood of robots. In Studies 1 and 2, participants evaluated a large, bipedal all-terrain robot; in Study 3, participants evaluated a small, social robot with humanlike facial and vocal characteristics. Across all studies, cues of violent conflict caused significant decreases in perceived robotic personhood, and these shifts were mediated by parallel reductions in emotional connection with the robot (with no significant effects of threat on attributions of intelligence/skill). In addition, in Study 2, participants in the conflict condition estimated the large bipedal robot to be less effective in military combat, and this difference was mediated by the reduction in perceived robotic personhood. These results are discussed as they motivate future investigation into the links among threat, coalitional bias and human–robot interaction.
Some Subsystems of Constant-Depth Frege with Parity
Authors: Garlík Michal , Kołodziejczyk Leszek Aleksander
Published: November 2018

We consider three relatively strong families of subsystems of AC
0
[2]-Frege proof systems, i.e., propositional proof systems using constant-depth formulas with an additional parity connective, for which exponential lower bounds on proof size are known. In order of increasing strength, the subsystems are (i) constant-depth proof systems with parity axioms and the (ii) treelike and (iii) daglike versions of systems introduced by Krajíček which we call PK
c
d
(⊕). In a PK
c
d
(⊕)-proof, lines are disjunctions (cedents) in which all disjuncts have depth at most
d
, parities can only appear as the outermost connectives of disjuncts, and all but
c
disjuncts contain no parity connective at all.

We prove that treelike PK

O
(1)

O
(1)

(⊕) is quasipolynomially but not polynomially equivalent to constant-depth systems with parity axioms. We also verify that the technique for separating parity axioms from parity connectives due to Impagliazzo and Segerlind can be adapted to give a superpolynomial separation between daglike PK

O
(1)

O
(1)

(⊕) and AC
0
[2]-Frege; the technique is inherently unable to prove superquasipolynomial separations.

We also study proof systems related to the system Res-Lin introduced by Itsykson and Sokolov. We prove that an extension of treelike Res-Lin is polynomially simulated by a system related to daglike PK
O(1)
O(1)
(⊕), and obtain an exponential lower bound for this system.
A Simple Modal Logic for Reasoning in Multigranulation Rough Set Model
Authors: Khan Md. Aquil , Patel Vineeta Singh
Published: November 2018

The notions of strong/weak approximations have been studied extensively in recent years. These approximations are based on a structure of the form (W,{Ri}i∈ N), called the multiple-source approximation system, whereRiis an equivalence relation onW, andNis an initial segment of the set N of natural numbers. We propose and explore a simple modal language and semantics that can be used to reason about the strong/weak approximations of concepts. Moreover, our study is not confined to collections of equivalence relations only, but other types of relations are also considered. This study is important, keeping in view the notions of generalized approximation spaces with relations other than equivalence.
LncRNA-MM2P Identified as a Modulator of Macrophage M2 Polarization
Authors: Cao Ji , Dong Rong , Jiang Li , Gong Yanling , Yuan Meng , You Jieqiong , Meng Wen , Chen Zhanlei , Zhang Ning , Weng Qinjie , Zhu Hong , He Qiaojun , Ying Meidan , Yang Bo
Published: November 2018

M2 polarization of macrophages is essential for their function in immunologic tolerance, which might promote tumorigenesis. However, the molecular mechanism behind the polarization process is not fully understood. Given that several lines of evidence have suggested that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) could be involved in regulating immune cell differentiation and function, the current study aimed to identify the lncRNAs that specifically modulate M2 macrophage polarization. By utilizing a series of cell-based M2 macrophage polarization models, a total of 25 lncRNAs with altered expression were documented based on lncRNA microarray-based profiling assays. Among them, lncRNA-MM2P was the only lncRNA upregulated during M2 polarization but downregulated in M1 macrophages. Knockdown of lncRNA-MM2P blocked cytokine-driven M2 polarization of macrophages and weakened the angiogenesis-promoting feature of M2 macrophages by reducing phosphorylation on STAT6. Moreover, manipulating lncRNA-MM2P in macrophages impaired macrophage-mediated promotion of tumorigenesis, tumor growth in vivo, and tumor angiogenesis. Collectively, our study identifies lncRNA-MM2P as a modulator required for macrophage M2 polarization and uncovers its role in macrophage-promoted tumorigenesis.
PD-L1 microSPECT/CT Imaging for Longitudinal Monitoring of PD-L1 Expression in Syngeneic and Humanized Mouse Models for Cancer
Authors: Heskamp Sandra , Wierstra Peter J. , Molkenboer-Kuenen Janneke D.M. , Sandker Gerwin W. , Thordardottir Soley , Cany Jeannette , Olive Daniel , Bussink Johan , Boerman Otto C. , Dolstra Harry , Aarntzen Erik H.J.G. , Hobo Willemijn A.
Published: November 2018

Antibodies that block the interaction between programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and PD-1 have shown impressive responses in subgroups of patients with cancer. PD-L1 expression in tumors seems to be a prerequisite for treatment response. However, PD-L1 is heterogeneously expressed within tumor lesions and may change upon disease progression and treatment. Imaging of PD-L1 could aid in patient selection. Previously, we showed the feasibility to image PD-L1+ tumors in immunodeficient mice. However, PD-L1 is also expressed on immune cell subsets. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the potential of PD-L1 micro single-photon emission tomography/computed tomography (microSPECT/CT) using radiolabeled PD-L1 antibodies to (i) measure PD-L1 expression in two immunocompetent tumor models (syngeneic mice and humanized mice harboring PD-L1 expressing immune cells) and (ii) monitor therapy-induced changes in tumor PD-L1 expression. We showed that radiolabeled PD-L1 antibodies accumulated preferentially in PD-L1+ tumors, despite considerable uptake in certain normal lymphoid tissues (spleen and lymph nodes) and nonlymphoid tissues (duodenum and brown fat). PD-L1 microSPECT/CT imaging could also distinguish between high and low PD-L1–expressing tumors. The presence of PD-L1+ immune cells did not compromise tumor uptake of the human PD-L1 antibodies in humanized mice, and we demonstrated that radiotherapy-induced upregulation of PD-L1 expression in murine tumors could be monitored with microSPECT/CT imaging. Together, these data demonstrate that PD-L1 microSPECT/CT is a sensitive technique to detect variations in tumor PD-L1 expression, and in the future, this technique may enable patient selection for PD-1/PD-L1–targeted therapy.
Prognostic Value of microRNA-133a Expression and Its Clinicopathologic Significance in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Comprehensive Study Based on Meta-Analysis and the TCGA Database
Authors: Yang Zi-Qing , Wu Chang-An , Cheng Yi-Xing
Published: November 2018

Background: The role of microRNA-133a (miR-133a) in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) is controversial. Thus, we conducted a comprehensive study based on meta-analysis and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Methods: Publications were searched in both English and Chinese databases, and meta-analysis was performed using Stata 12.0. The clinical value of miR-133a in NSCLC was investigated by collecting and calculating data from the TCGA database, and the statistical analysis was performed in R 3.5.0. Results: 5 studies with 364 cases were included in this meta-analysis. The combined pooled result showed that high expression of miR-133a was associated with a favorable survival outcome in NSCLC patients (hazard ratio 0.561, 95% confidence interval 0.396-0.794, p = 0.001). Meanwhile, a total of 984 NSCLC patients were extracted from the TCGA database. Results showed an area under the ROC curve value for miR-133a-3p of 0.902, and the expression of miR-133a-3p was linked with clinicopathologic parameters of NSCLC (p < 0.05), including sex, age, social status, and lymph node metastasis. Conclusion: Our study indicated that miR-133a might act as a tumor suppressor and be a valuable independent prognostic and diagnostic biomarker for NSCLC, and NSCLC patients with high expression of miR-133 might have a better prognosis.
Barriers to Using a Nationwide Skin Cancer Screening Program: Findings from Germany
Authors: Görig Tatiana , Schneider Sven , Schilling Laura , Diehl Katharina
Published: November 2018

Background: In 2008, a nationwide standardized and systematic skin cancer screening (SCS) service, which is globally unique, was implemented in Germany. We aimed to provide current data on SCS use, to explore barriers to SCS usage, and to identify population groups with lower rates of SCS use. Methods: We analyzed data from 2,635 participants (18-45 years) in the National Cancer Aid Monitoring on Sunbed Use. Data on SCS use, barriers to SCS, and sociodemographic characteristics were obtained. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were performed to analyze the data. Data was weighted by age, sex, educational level, and federal state. Results: In total, 39.0% of participants reported having been screened for skin cancer at least once in their lifetime. The subjective importance of different barriers varied depending on the participants' educational level. SCS use was negatively associated with male sex (odds ratio (OR) = 0.63, p < 0.001), low level of education (OR = 0.83, not significant), immigrant background (OR = 0.63; p < 0.001), and having no employment. Conclusion: Although the SCS is part of the regular healthcare services offered in Germany, our data showed lower usage among certain population groups. Barriers relevant for these groups should be considered when developing measures to increase SCS use.
Isavuconazole: Case Report and Pharmacokinetic Considerations
Authors: Marchesi Francesco , Girmenia Corrado , Goffredo Bianca Maria , Salvatorelli Emanuela , Romano Atelda , Mengarelli Andrea , Minotti Giorgio , Menna Pierantonio
Published: November 2018

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Voriconazole (VCZ) and posaconazole (PCZ) remain the most widely used antifungals for the prophylaxis and treatment of IFD. However, VCZ and PCZ are liable for drug-drug interactions and show a pharmacokinetic variability that requires therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). Isavuconazole (IVZ) is a newest generation triazole antifungal approved for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in adult patients and for the treatment of invasive mucormycosis in adult patients for whom treatment with amphotericin B is inappropriate. In clinical trials, IVZ showed linear pharmacokinetics and little or no evidence for interactions with other drugs. There is only modest evidence on IVZ pharmacokinetics and TDM in real-life settings. Here, we report on IVZ pharmacokinetics in a young adult with Ph chromosome-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who developed a “probable” IA during induction chemotherapy. The patient was initially treated with VCZ, but she developed a severe hepatic toxicity that was associated to the high plasma levels of VCZ. Therefore, VCZ was discontinued and the patient was switched to IVZ. After a loading dose of IVZ, the patient remained on IVZ for 5 months while also receiving standard maintenance chemotherapy for ALL. At day 65 after the start of IVZ, the patient experienced a significant hepatic toxicity; however, no change in IVZ plasma concentrations was observed in the face of a concomitant administration of many other drugs (cancer drugs, antiemetics, other anti-infectives). Hepatic toxicity resolved after discontinuing maintenance chemotherapy but not IVZ. These results show that (i) IVZ plasma concentrations remained stable throughout and were not affected by concomitant ALL therapy, and (ii) there was no relation between IVZ plasma concentration and hepatic toxicity. Thus, in clinical practice IVZ may not require TDM.
The Spleen Promotes the Secretion of CCL2 and Supports an M1 Dominant Phenotype in Hepatic Macrophages During Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Li Liang , Wei Wei , Li Zhenzhen , Chen Haiyan , Li Yu , Jiang Wei , Chen Weisan , Kong Guangyao , Yang Jun , Li Zongfang
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Liver fibrosis is a complex process of tissue remodeling in response to injury. Hepatic macrophages have been identified as a key player in this process. As the largest lymphoid organ in the body, the spleen exerts both local and systemic effects on immune cell response. Splenectomy can improve hepatic function during the treatment of liver cirrhosis. However, whether the spleen influences disease progression through the modulation of hepatic macrophages remains unclear. Methods: We examined ex vivo hepatic macrophage responses from splenectomized or sham operated rats and performed splenocyte adoptive transfer studies, in combination with in vivo CCL2 blockade, in splenectomized or sham operated rats. Results: We found that splenectomy reduced fibrosis severity and monocyte/ macrophage infiltration within the injured liver. Splenectomy also reduced secretion of the monocyte chemokine CCL2 by hepatic macrophages. Ex vivo, splenocytes, especially splenic macrophages, promoted CCL2 secretion via upregulation of SOCS3 signaling in hepatic macrophages. Migration of splenic monocytes in response to conditioned medium from hepatic macrophages was inhibited by the blockade of SOCS3–CCL2–CCR2 signaling. Splenectomy also attenuated the establishment of an M1-dominant hepatic macrophage phenotype whilst the adoptive transfer of splenocytes could partly reverse this effect and exacerbate fibrosis. However, CCL2 blockade following adoptive splenocyte transfer restored the protective effects of splenectomy. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that splenic macrophages can promote hepatic macrophage secretion of CCL2, which in turn facilitates monocyte recruitment and the establishment of an M1-dominant hepatic macrophage phenotype, and thus increase the severity of liver fibrosis.
Tumor-Secreted Exosomal miR-222 Promotes Tumor Progression via Regulating P27 Expression and Re-Localization in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Li Zhonghu , Tao Yang , Wang Xiaoya , Jiang Peng , Li Jie , Peng Minjie , Zhang Xi , Chen Kai , Liu Hui , Zhen Ping , Zhu Jin , Liu Xiangde , Liu Xiangde 
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) or exosomes have recently been shown to play vital regulatory or communication roles in cancer biology. However, the roles and mechanisms of exosomal miRNAs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain unknown. We aimed to investigate the detailed roles and mechanisms of tumor-generated exosomal miRNAs in progression of PDAC. Methods: miR-222 was identified by miRNA microarray studies in exosomes of PDAC cells, and further analyzed in plasma exosomes of PDAC patients. The regulatory mechanisms of miR-222 were explored by qRT-PCR, WB, dual-luciferase assays and immunofluorescence or confocal analysis. Other biological assays include transwell, xenograft models and so on. Results: miR-222 is significantly high in tumor exosomes or highly invasive PDAC cells. miR-222 could directly regulate p27 to promote cell invasion and proliferation. miR-222 could also activate AKT by inhibiting PPP2R2A expression, thus inducing p27 phosphorylation and cytoplasmic p27 expression to promote cell survival, invasion and metastasis. Expressions of miR-222 and p27 were significantly inversely correlated, and cytoplasmic p27, instead of nuclear p27, was associated with tumor malignancy. miR-222 could be transmitted between PDAC cells via exosome communication, and the exosomal miR-222 communication is functional. Plasma exosomal miR-222 in PDAC patients was high and significantly correlated to tumor size and TNM stage, and was an independent risk factor for PDAC patient survival. Conclusion: Tumor-generated exosomes could promote invasion and proliferation of neighboring tumor cells via miR-222 transmission, the plasma exosomal miR-222 plays important roles and may be a useful prognostic maker in PDAC.
ВІКОВІ ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ЖИРНОКИСЛОТНОГО СКЛАДУ ЛІПІДІВ СИРОВАТКИ КРОВІ ЩУРІВ З ОЖИРІННЯМ ПРИ ВПЛИВІ ЙОДУ
Authors: Kopchak N. H. , Pokotylo O. S.
Published: November 2018

Вступ. У статті наведено нові дані про вікові особливості складу жирних кислот загального вмісту ліпідів сироватки крові білих щурів-самців з експериментальним аліментарним ожирінням у порівняльному ефекті внутрішньошлункового введення біологічно активного йоду в складі йодіс-концентрату і неорганічного йоду в складі йодомарину.

Мета дослідження – вивчити порівняльний ефект біологічно активного йоду в складі йодіс-концентрату і неорганічного йоду в складі йодомарину на вміст жирних кислот загального вмісту ліпідів сироватки крові білих щурів-самців з експериментальним аліментарним ожирінням.

Методи дослідження. Експериментальне аліментарне ожиріння моделювали протягом 45 днів на 48 білих щурах-самцях лінії Вістар різних вікових груп. Тварин поділили на 3 вікові групи по 16 щурів у кожній: 1-ша – віком 3 місяці; 2-га – 4 місяці; 3-тя – 6,5 місяця. У кожній віковій групі було 4 підгрупи: 1-ша – контрольна, тварини якої перебували на основному раціоні віварію; 2-га, 3-тя і 4-та – щури з експериментальним аліментарним ожирінням. Крім того, тваринам 3-ї групи внутрішньошлунково вводили біологічно активний йод у складі йодіс-концентрату, а щурам 4-ї групи – неорганічний йод у формі калію йодиду в складі йодомарину. Жирнокислотний склад визначали методом газорідинної хроматографії на газовому хроматографі HewlettPackardHP-6890 з полум’яно-іонізаційним детектором, обладнаному капілярною колонкою SP-2380, довжиною 100 м (Supelco).

Результати й обговорення. У сироватці крові білих щурів усіх вікових груп з експериментальним аліментарним ожирінням спостерігали збільшення відносного вмісту насичених жирних кислот, головним чином за рахунок стеаринової кислоти, порівняно з інтактними тваринами. У щурів з експериментальним аліментарним ожирінням, які отримали йодомарин та йодіс-концентрат, результати були кращими відносно тварин 2-ї підгрупи.

Висновок. Йод позитивно впливає на склад жирних кислот загального вмісту ліпідів сироватки крові білих щурів-самців з експериментальним аліментарним ожирінням.