bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic Biology Enables Programmable Cell‐Based Biosensors
Authors: Hicks Maggie , Bachmann Till T. , Wang Baojun
Published: October 2019

Cell‐based biosensors offer cheap, portable and simple methods of detecting molecules of interest but have yet to be truly adopted commercially. Issues with their performance and specificity initially slowed the development of cell‐based biosensors. With the development of rational approaches to tune response curves, the performance of biosensors has rapidly improved and there are now many biosensors capable of sensing with the required performance. This has stimulated an increased interest in biosensors and their commercial potential. However the reliability, long term stability and biosecurity of these sensors are still barriers to commercial application and public acceptance. Research into overcoming these issues remains active. Here we present the state‐of‐the‐art tools offered by synthetic biology to allow construction of cell‐based biosensors with customisable performance to meet the real world requirements in terms of sensitivity and dynamic range and discuss the research progress to overcome the challenges in terms of the sensor stability and biosecurity fears.
A Simple Assay to Evaluate the Function of Human Connexin Hemichannels Expressed in Escherichia coli that Can Be Used for Drug Discovery and Mutant Analysis
Authors: Fiori Mariana C. , Cuello Luis G. , Altenberg Guillermo A.
Published: October 2019

Abnormally increased activity of connexin hemichannels contributes to cell damage in many disorders, including deafness, stroke, and cardiac infarct, and therefore hemichannels constitute a potentially important therapeutic target. Unfortunately, the available hemichannel inhibitors are not specific and most are toxic. The absence of a simple and cost‐effective screening assay has made the discovery of hemichannel inhibitors difficult. Here, we present an optimized assay where human connexins are expressed in genetically modified Escherichia coli cells deficient in potassium uptake (LB2003 cells). These cells cannot grow in low‐potassium medium, and hemichannel function is assayed by the reversion of the no‐growth phenotype. Since functional hemichannels are permeable to potassium, they allow for its uptake and cell growth. The simple reading of bacterial growth in low‐potassium medium distinguishes functional hemichannels (growth) from those inhibited (no growth). This assay is simple, robust, inexpensive, and reliable, and is easily scaled to high‐throughput multiwell platforms. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation of competent LB2003 cells resistant to kanamycin

Basic Protocol 2: Growth complementation assay

Support Protocol: Evaluation of cytotoxic effects of potential connexin hemichannel inhibitors
Analysis of lncRNA–mRNA networks after MEK1/2 inhibition based on WGCNA in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Qian Jing , Yang Jianxin , Liu Xianchen , Chen Zhiming , Yan Xiaodi , Gu Hongmei , Xue Qiang , Zhou Xingqin , Gai Ling , Lu Pengpeng , Shi Yu , Yao Ninghua
Published: October 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) responds poorly to treatment. Efforts have been exerted to prolong the survival time of PDA, but the 5‐year survival rates remain disappointing. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of PDA development is significant. MEK/ERK pathway signaling has been proven to be important in PDA. lncRNA–mRNA networks have become a vital part of molecular mechanisms in the MEK/ERK pathway. Herein, weighted gene coexpression network analysis was used to investigate the coexpressed lncRNA–mRNA networks in the MEK/ERK pathway based on GSE45765. Differently expressed long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) were found and 10 modules were identified based on coexpression profiles. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes were then performed to analyze the coexpressed lncRNA and mRNA in different modules. PDA cells and tissues were used to validate the analysis results. Finally, we found that NONHSAT185150.1 and B4GALT6 were negatively correlated with MEK1/2. By analyzing GSE45765, the genome‐wide profiles of lncRNA–mRNA network after MEK1/2 was established, which might aid the development of drug‐targeting MEK1/2 and the investigation of diagnostic markers.
Synergistic inhibition effect of N‐(furan‐2‐ylmethyl)‐7H‐purin‐6‐amine and iodide ion for mild steel corrosion in 1 mol/L HCl
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Li Hui‐Jing , Wang Ankai , Ma Chengshuai , Wang Zhangxiao , Zhang Hao , Wu Yan‐Chao
Published: October 2019

The synergistic inhibition effect of N‐(furan‐2‐ylmethyl)‐7H‐purin‐6‐amine (FYPA) and iodide ion on mild steel corrosion in 1 mol/L HCl was investigated using weight‐loss tests, electrochemical techniques, and surface analysis. The experiments revealed that the FYPA + KI mixture was a temperature‐dependent inhibitor, which strongly inhibited the corrosion of mild steel compared with FYPA. Based on electrochemical results, FYPA and FYPA + KI behaved as mixed‐type inhibitors, and their inhibition efficiencies were 73.66% and 96.01%, respectively. The calculated synergistic parameter value was larger than unity, illustrating that enhancement of inhibition in the presence of KI could be a result of synergistic action. Surface analysis techniques (scanning electron microscope/scanning electrochemical microscope) confirmed the presence of additives on the studied mild steel surface. A plausible mechanism of corrosion inhibition was proposed.
Structure and Properties of PET Nano‐Porous Luminescence Fibers for Fluorescence‐Indicating to Acid Gases
Authors: Shu Dengkun , Xi Peng , Xia Lei , Wang Xiaoqing , Cheng Bowen
Published: October 2019

This work describes the fluorescence‐indicating function to trace acid gases of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) nano‐porous luminescence fibers (PNPLFs) through the analysis of correlation between the concentration of acid gas and fluorescence intensity of organic rare earth complexes dispersed uniformly in the PET nano‐porous structured fibers. The porous structure and large specific surface area of the PET nano‐fibers prepared through electrospinning technology offer the strong adhesive force and good absorption efficiency of PET nano‐porous fibers to acid gases. The fast response ability of benzoic acid organic rare earth complexes to pH value gives the PET nano‐porous luminescence fibers fluorescence‐indicating function to acid gas. Under dry state and in situ conditions, the fluorescence‐indicating to acid gases of PET nano‐porous luminescence fibers can be completed in 10 s. The precise value is 1 ppm. At the same time, repeated cycling experiments show that the PET nano‐porous luminescence fibers have good recycling property, and the recycling life can increase 40‐fold. Coupled with the good mechanical performances that the breaking strength achieves 121.6 cN, the PET nano‐porous luminescence fibers have better potential in the fluorescence‐indicating to acid gases.
The in vivo biocompatibility of titanized polypropylene lightweight mesh is superior to that of conventional polypropylene mesh
Authors: Ai Fang‐Fang , Mao Meng , Zhang Ye , Kang Jia , Zhu Lan
Published: October 2019

Objective

To evaluate the histological response to and changes in the biomechanical properties of titanized polypropylene lightweight mesh and conventional polypropylene mesh at 1 and 12 weeks following implantation in the sheep vagina.

Methods

We compared a titanized polypropylene lightweight mesh (TiLOOP Mesh) to a conventional polypropylene mesh (Gynemesh PS) in a sheep vagina model. Explants were harvested after 1 and 12 weeks (n = 6/mesh type/time point) for histological observation. After 12 weeks, mesh‐tissue complex specimens were biomechanically assessed by a uniaxial tension system.

Results

One week after implantation, there was no significant difference in the inflammatory response between the two groups. Twelve weeks after implantation, the TiLOOP light mesh elicited a lower inflammatory response than was observed for the Gynemesh PS (1.44 ± 0.61 vs 2.05 ± 0.80, P = .015). Twelve weeks after implantation, the collagen I/III ratio was lower in the TiLOOP light mesh group than in the Gynemesh PS group (9.41 ± 5.06 vs 15.21 ± 8.21, P = .019). The messenger RNA expression levels of the inflammatory factors interleukin 10 and tumor necrosis factor α were lower in the TiLOOP Mesh group than in the Gynemesh PS group at both 1 and 12 weeks (P < .05). There were no significant differences in any of the evaluated biomechanical characteristics between the two meshes (P > .05).

Conclusion

Although the titanized polypropylene lightweight mesh induces slightly less tissue reactivity and has better in vivo biocompatibility, further studies should be conducted including the complications and the success rate of pelvic organ prolapse in patients before recommending it in pelvic floor reconstruction.
Molecular characteristics of polymerized surfactants: influence of introduced crosslinking agent and monomer concentration
Authors: Senchukova Anna S , Mikhailova Mariya E , Gubarev Alexander S , Lezov Alexey A , Lebedeva Elena V , Makarov Ivan A , Zorin Ivan M , Tsvetkov Nikolay V
Published: October 2019

Polymerizable surfactants are currently attracting considerable interest due to their promising applications in various fields of science and engineering. The present work is devoted to studies of crosslinked poly(N‐acryloyl‐11‐aminoundecanoic acid) and sodium poly(N‐acryloyl‐11‐aminoundecanoate) that were synthesized in reaction mixtures of various compositions (i.e. with different amounts of a crosslinking agent and monomer concentrations). The products were studied by viscometry, dynamic light scattering, sedimentation velocity ultracentrifugation, flow birefringence as well as equilibrium and non‐equilibrium electric birefringence. It was established that both intramolecular and intermolecular crosslinks are formed in the polymerization process. Molecular optical methods and electro‐optical methods were used to determine the sizes of macromolecules with intramolecular crosslinks and the structures containing intermolecular crosslinks that were prepared at various concentrations of the monomer and the crosslinking agent. It was demonstrated that a simultaneous decrease in the amount of the crosslinking agent and decrease in the initial monomer concentration during the synthesis resulted in a reduction in the number of intramolecular crosslinks and molecular masses of the synthesized crosslinked macromolecules. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Highly photoemissive polymer–transition metal complexes based on poly(2‐hydroxyethyl) methacrylate
Authors: Stan Corneliu S , Coroaba Adina , Popa Marcel , Ursu Laura E
Published: October 2019

The paper presents several new polymer complexes based on poly(2‐hydroxyethyl) methacrylate (P‐HEMA) and transition metals including Y3+, Eu3+, Tb3+ and Dy3+. Red‐, green‐, blue‐ and yellow‐emitting polymer complexes with remarkable photoluminescent (PL) properties, high degree of transparency and excellent processability both in bulk and in thin film were prepared and investigated. In the case of the prepared P‐HEMA–Eu3+ and P‐HEMA–Tb3+ polymer complexes, divinylbenzene was used as a crosslinker resulting a markedly enhanced PL emission, most probably due to the presence of the benzene rings which improve the efficiency of the energy transfer to the cation emissive centres. The prepared polymer complexes were structurally investigated through Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopies while atomic force microscopy was used to study the morphology of the prepared thin films. Steady‐state fluorescence spectroscopy and absolute PL quantum yield were used for the investigation of the luminescent properties. The impressive PL emission and the convenience of preparation in bulk or thin films could be important arguments for a wide area of applications ranging from photonic conversion materials in optoelectronic devices (light‐emitting diodes, flat‐panel displays) to full‐colour watermarks on special‐purpose papers or PL inks and coatings. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Crystal Structure Prediction of Bifurazano[3,4‐b:3′,4′‐f][3′′,4′′‐d](BFFO) in the Experimentally Known Monohydrated and Proposed Anhydrous Forms
Authors: Khakimov Dmitry V. , Dzyabchenko Alexandr V. , Pivina Tatyana S.
Published: October 2019

Bifurazano[3,4‐b:3′,4′‐f][3′′,4′′‐d]xacycloheptatriene (BFFO, C6N6O5) is perspective high‐energy‐density compound. The crystal structure was previously determined for its monohydrate (space group P21/c, Z=4), while it remains unknown for pure BFFO being of primary interest. Herein a theoretical crystal structure prediction of BFFO in both monohydrated and the proposed anhydrous forms is performed. The Coulomb energy was calculated with advanced point charge models reproducing with high accuracy electrostatic potentials of the BFFO and water molecules. The van der Waals energy was calculated with empirical atom‐atom potentials. The global search for energy minima involved enumeration of 35 most likely organic structural classes with one and two independent molecules (Z=1 and 2). A characteristic feature of the energy landscape of an anhydrous BFFO is that the energies of the deepest minima differ very little. However the structures in the space group Pbca, Z=8 and P21/c, Z=8 were found the most energetically preferable. The common feature of predicted BFFO structures is the presence of herring‐bone packing motifs instead of stacking configurations. The detonation pressure and velocity of pure BFFO crystal (presumably a high‐energy explosive) are estimated from the predicted density; the latter occurs to be lower than density of the monohydrate form.
Pesticide comparison of Phylloneta impressa (Araneae: Theridiidae) females, cocoons and webs with prey remnants collected from a rape field before the harvest
Authors: Erban Tomas , Sopko Bruno , Vaclavikova Marta , Tomesova Daniela , Halesova Tatana , Rezac Milan
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Pesticides or plant protection products (PPPs) are risky for spiders in or near agricultural landscapes. However, the risks posed by pesticides to spiders are largely understudied compared with the risks to pollinators. Here, we investigated the distribution of PPPs in adult females, cocoons and webs with prey remnants of Phylloneta impressa.

RESULTS

Three sample types were collected from the tops of rapeseed on 18 July (before the harvest). Three different ultraperformance liquid chromatograph coupled with triple‐quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer (UHPLC–QqQ–MS/MS) analyses were performed: (i) pesticides and selected metabolites; (ii) quaternary ammonium pesticides (quats); and (iii) pyrethroids. Overall, 23 compounds, 22 pesticides and the metabolite imidacloprid‐urea were detected. The array of pesticides was largest in webs with prey remnants, and according to evaluation via redundancy analysis (RDA), pesticides were similar in spiders and cocoons; however, data inspection revealed differences in pesticide distribution among these samples. Clothianidin was detected in only female spiders, whereas thiamethoxam prevailed in webs with remnants of prey, and acetamiprid, thiacloprid and imidacloprid were found in all three matrices. One of the most abundant compounds was chlormequat, indicating that quats should be considered a possible risk for these spiders. None of the pyrethroids were detected despite being applied in the sampling area, indicating rapid biodegradation. By contrast, some pesticides were detected despite not being applied in the field, indicating that the source of contamination is prey or particles carried by wind and attached to webs.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the results indicate the different distribution or behavior of several pesticides in the spider matrices. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
High‐speed mobility on planetary surfaces: A technical review
Authors: Rodríguez‐Martínez David , Van Winnendael Michel , Yoshida Kazuya
Published: October 2019

Despite the success so far accomplished in the robotic exploration of the Moon and Mars, the constraints associated with newly proposed mission concepts manifest the need for a faster surface prospection. Increasing driving velocities is being considered as a potential solution to the requirements introduced by these missions. This review presents the benefits and foreseeable challenges of using faster locomotive solutions for space exploration. Information is provided regarding the set of missions that would benefit most from faster locomotive capabilities. Starting by understanding the theoretical framework governing the interaction of wheeled robots operating over loose, sandy terrains, we delve into the foundation of Bekker's classic terramechanic equations—the most frequently used method to predict mobile robots off‐road performance. We highlight its limitations and review the efforts that have been made to expand the range of application of these theories to dynamic wheel–soil interactions. We analyze the existing experimental evidence on the effects of increasing traveling velocities under earthbound, off‐road conditions. By paying special attention to previous experiences on the lunar surface, we outline the challenges that the combination of irregular terrains and a reduced‐gravity field may pose to a fast‐moving exploration rover. The principles, mathematical models, experimental evidence, and experiences presented in this review are meant to aid in the identification of poorly understood and insufficiently studied aspects regarding high‐speed extraterrestrial surface mobility.
15.4: Fabrication of 5.5‐inch AMOLED Panel using IGZO TFTs
Authors: Huang Jhih-Jie , Su Chih-Yu , Qiao Xiaoping , Li Yuanhang , Ruan Sangsang , Chen Yuhuai , Song Shuang , Wang Haiyan , Huang Yizhen , Tseng Chih-Yuan
Published: October 2019

We have sucessfully developed 5.5‐inch AMOLED display by utilizing IGZO (Indium‐Gallium‐Zinc‐Oxide) transistor. In order to verify the metal oxide TFTS for AMOLED applications, the OLED evaporation and further processes are employed to complete the display panel. This IGZO TFT device with excellent Vth uniformity on a Gen6 glass.The Vth deviation of TFTs in panel is only 0.65V.
32.3: Invited Paper: Design of a High Performance Head Mounted 3D Display Using Micro‐OLEDs
Authors: Peng Huajun , Cao Hongpeng , Chen Jiangfeng , Liu Donghua
Published: October 2019

This paper documents the development of a high performance head mounted 3D displays using Micro‐OLEDs. The optical system couples commercial full resolution 1920*1080 pixel 0.71inch OLED microdisplay, having a diagonal field of view (FOV) of 53 degree and exit pupil diameter over 7mm and eye relief larger than 14 mm And the image distortion is less than 1.5%. An MTF of over 0.6 was achieved at 30lp/mm, ensuring a high image viewing quality of the display. The optical engine implements the diopter adjustment function, supporting diopter correction from +3D to ‐8D without degrading image quality. A driving solution based on FPGA is developed to support various high definition 3D formats.
P‐6.7: Investigation of Full‐Color Solutions for Micro‐LED Display
Authors: Tong Caiyu , Liu Xinyi , Li Weizeng , Liu Zhaojun
Published: October 2019

Micro‐LED is considered as the next generation display technology and has got the attention of many research groups and companies in the world. It is a kind of display consists of microscopic LEDs integrated on driving circuit. And it has many advantages such as high brightness, low power consumption, quick response, wide viewing angle, self‐emitting, long lifetime, good contrast, and due to its micro size, it has extremely high resolution which is really suitable for micro‐display like VR and AR. However, there are still some problems need to be solved before it widely used in display market. In today's trend of pursuing colorization high resolution and high contrast ratio in display field, achieving high quality and high efficiency full‐color display is one of the most important challenge for Micro‐LED applications. In this paper, several feasible techniques of full‐color Micro‐LEDs are investigated.
P‐8.9: Full‐color GaN‐based LED Micro‐display Integrated with Dynamic Color Filter
Authors: Luo Sha , Zhang Xuefeng , Qu Shuai , Liang Defeng , Xu Jian
Published: October 2019

In recent years, how to realize the color display of GaN‐based LED micro‐display has become a great challenge. This paper describes a full‐color LED micro‐display system based on time‐dynamic color filter, which can achieve high resolution and low cost. Besides, the system has flexible structure and can be adjusted freely according to various applications.
2D Materials in Light: Excited‐State Dynamics and Applications
Authors: Li Na , Wang Qiang , Zhang Hao‐Li
Published: October 2019

The development of two‐dimensional (2D) materials have attracted increasing interest due to their unique structure and various potential applications such as opto‐electronic devices and photocatalysis. Our group have contributed to this exciting field by creating novel preparation methods for a various of 2D materials including transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), carbon nitrides and single elemental 2D materials from Group 15. Particularly, employing powerful time‐resolved spectroscopic techniques such as femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy, we elucidated the excited‐state dynamics of 2D materials behind their outstanding performance in photocatalytic and photonic devices. Therefore in this account, we focus on the effective fabrication methods of 2D materials and their photoinduced excited‐state dynamics. Following the introduction in Part 1, we will summarize our novel strategies for fabricating 2D materials (Part 2). Then in Part 3 we will introduce the instrumentation for exploring the photoinduced excited‐state dynamics of the 2D materials spanning a wide time scale from ultrafast fs to slow ms. Part 4 details the applications of the 2D materials in photocatalysis and nonlinear optics determined by their excited‐state physics and chemistry. Part 5 of perspectives summarizes a few future trends of 2D materials on a series of issues like fabrications, dynamic investigations and photonic optoelectronic applications. Collective efforts through researchers from interdisciplinary fields are expected to further push the exciting territory towards a new horizon.
Computing in Combinatorial Optimization
Authors: Cook William
Published: October 2019

Research in combinatorial optimization successfully combines diverse ideas drawn from computer science, mathematics, and operations research. We give a tour of this work, focusing on the early development of the subject and the central role played by linear programming. The paper concludes with a short wish list of future research directions.
An operator ideal generated by Orlicz spaces
Authors: Mastyło Mieczysław
Published: October 2019

Absolutely $$\varphi $$φ-summing operators between Banach spaces generated by Orlicz spaces are investigated. A variant of Pietsch’s domination theorem is proved for these operators and applied to prove vector-valued inequalities. These results are used to prove asymptotic estimates of $$\pi _\varphi $$πφ-summing norms of finite-dimensional operators and also diagonal operators between Banach sequence lattices for a wide class of Orlicz spaces based on exponential convex functions $$\varphi $$φ. The key here is the description of a space of coefficients of the Rademacher series in this class of Orlicz spaces, proved via interpolation methods. As by-product, some absolutely $$\varphi $$φ-summing operators on the Hilbert space $$\ell _2$$ℓ2 are characterized in terms of its approximation numbers.
Evaluation of the “Freiburg Acuity VEP” on Commercial Equipment
Authors: Bach Michael , Farmer Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

To assess the implementation and outcome quality of the Freiburg Acuity VEP methodology (Bach et al. in Br J Ophthalmol 92:396–403, 2008) on the Diagnosys Espion Profile and E3 electrophysiology systems.

Methods

We recorded visual evoked potentials (VEPs) from both eyes of 24 participants, where visual acuity (VA) was either full or reduced with scatter foils to approximately 0.5 and 0.8 LogMAR, resulting in a total of 144 recordings. Behavioral VA was measured in each case under the same conditions using the Freiburg Acuity Test (FrACT); VEP-based acuity was assessed with the “heuristic algorithm,” which automatically selects points for regression to zero amplitude.

Results

Behavioral VA ranged from − 0.2 to 1.0 LogMAR. The fully automatic heuristic VEP algorithm resulted in 8 of 144 recordings (6%) that were scored as “no result.” The other 136 recordings (94%) had an outcome of − 0.20 to 1.3 LogMAR (which corresponds to a range of 20/12.5–20/400, or 6/3.8–6/120, in Snellen ratios; or 1.6–0.1 in decimal acuity). The heuristic VEP algorithm agreed with the behavioral VA to within ± 0.31 LogMAR (95% limits of agreement), which is equivalent to approximately three lines on a VA chart.

Conclusions

The successful implementation of the Freiburg Acuity VEP “heuristic algorithm” on a commercial system makes this capability available to a wider group of users. The limits of agreement of ± 0.31 LogMAR are close to the original implementation at the University of Freiburg and we believe are clinically acceptable for a fully automatic, largely objective assessment of visual acuity.
The Hole Argument in Homotopy Type Theory
Authors: Ladyman James , Presnell Stuart
Published: October 2019

The Hole Argument is primarily about the meaning of general covariance in general relativity. As such it raises many deep issues about identity in mathematics and physics, the ontology of space–time, and how scientific representation works. This paper is about the application of a new foundational programme in mathematics, namely homotopy type theory (HoTT), to the Hole Argument. It is argued that the framework of HoTT provides a natural resolution of the Hole Argument. The role of the Univalence Axiom in the treatment of the Hole Argument in HoTT is clarified.
Feasibility and Effectiveness of Different Models of Team-Based Learning Approaches in STEMM-Based Disciplines
Authors: Parappilly Maria , Woodman Richard John , Randhawa Sharmil
Published: October 2019

This study presents findings from three different disciplines in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine) and across different models of student-focused teaching. Specifically, we assessed the feasibility and effectiveness of flipped classroom approaches combined with team based learning (TBL), and TBL alone within STEMM, particularly in the disciplines of Physics, Engineering and Medicine across different year levels. TBL activities were incorporated into undergraduate Physics and Engineering cohorts, with students from a diverse range of majors and backgrounds and a graduate level Doctor of Medicine (MD) cohort. Quiz scores from the Physics cohort were significantly improved following TBL, exam scores from the engineering cohort were more evenly distributed than pre-TBL quiz scores and students in the medical cohort had higher quiz scores when working within teams rather than alone. Qualitative survey responses from both the physics and engineering cohorts indicated that students felt TBL was positive and increased their understanding of key concepts. Informal feedback from medical students following TBL classes was also very positive and students demonstrated obvious engagement. Comparisons for pre- versus post-TBL quiz scores for Physics, for pre-TBL quartile versus exam scores in Engineering and for Team versus Individual learning quiz scores in Medicine all provide evidence of effective student engagement and performance. The observation study suggests that TBL is a feasible and effective method of student-focused learning within STEMM. More rigorously designed studies are now required to further explore these findings.
The disvalue of knowledge
Authors: Papineau David
Published: October 2019

I argue that the concept of knowledge is a relic of a bygone age, erroneously supposed to do no harm. I illustrate this claim by showing how a concern with knowledge distorts the use of statistical evidence in criminal courts, and then generalize the point to show that this concern hampers our enterprises across the board and not only in legal contexts.
mTOR inhibitor everolimus reduces invasiveness of melanoma cells
Authors: Ciołczyk-Wierzbicka Dorota , Gil Dorota , Zarzycka Marta , Laidler Piotr
Published: October 2019

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays a key role in several cellular processes: proliferation, survival, invasion, and angiogenesis, and therefore, controls cell behavior both in health and in disease. Dysregulation of the mTOR signaling is involved in some of the cancer hallmarks, and thus the mTOR pathway is an important target for the development of a new anticancer therapy. The object of this study is recognition of the possible role of mTOR kinase inhibitors—everolimus single and in combination with selected downstream protein kinases inhibitors: LY294002 (PI3 K), U0126 (ERK1/2), GDC-0879 (B-RAF), AS-703026 (MEK), MK-2206 (AKT), PLX-4032 (B-RRAF) in cell invasion in malignant melanoma. Treatment of melanoma cells with everolimus led to a significant decrease in the level of both phosphorylated: mTOR (Ser2448) and mTOR (Ser2481) as well as their downstream effectors. The use of protein kinase inhibitors produced a significant decrease in metalloproteinases (MMPs) activity, as well as diminished invasion, especially when used in combination. The best results in the inhibition of both MMPs and cell invasiveness were obtained for the combination of an mTOR inhibitor— everolimus with a B-RAF inhibitor—PLX-4032. Slightly less profound reduction of invasiveness was obtained for the combinations of an mTOR inhibitor—everolimus with ERK1/2 inhibitor—U126 or MEK inhibitor—AS-703026 and in the case of MMPs activity decrease for PI3 K inhibitor—LY294002 and AKT inhibitor—MK-2206. The simultaneous use of everolimus or another new generation rapalog with selected inhibitors of crucial signaling kinases seems to be a promising concept in cancer treatment.
Global classical solutions to quadratic systems with mass control in arbitrary dimensions
Authors: Fellner Klemens , Morgan Jeff , Tang Bao Quoc
Published: October 2019

The global existence of classical solutions to reaction-diffusion systems in arbitrary space dimensions is studied. The nonlinearities are assumed to be quasi-positive, to have (slightly super-) quadratic growth, and to possess a mass control, which includes the important cases of mass conservation and mass dissipation. Under these assumptions, the local classical solution is shown to be global, and in the case of mass conservation or mass dissipation, to have the

L^{\infty }

-norm growing at most polynomially in time. Applications include skew-symmetric Lotka-Volterra systems and quadratic reversible chemical reactions.
Insulin-signaling abnormalities in drug-naïve first-episode schizophrenia: Transduction protein analyses in extracellular vesicles of putative neuronal origin
Authors: Kapogiannis Dimitrios , Dobrowolny Henrik , Tran Joyce , Mustapic Maja , Frodl Thomas , Meyer-Lotz Gabriela , Schiltz Kolja , Schanze Denny , Rietschel Marcella , Bernstein Hans-Gert , Steiner Johann
Published: October 2019

Background:

Metabolic syndrome and impaired insulin sensitivity may occur as side effects of atypical antipsychotic drugs. However, studies ofperipheralinsulin resistance using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) or oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) suggest that abnormal glucose metabolism is already present in drug-naive first-episode schizophrenia (DNFES). We hypothesized impairments ofneuronalinsulin signaling in DNFES.

Methods:

To gain insight into neuronal insulin-signalingin vivo, we analyzed peripheral blood extracellular vesicles enriched for neuronal origin (nEVs). Phosphorylated insulin signal transduction serine-threonine kinases pS312-IRS-1, pY-IRS-1, pS473-AKT, pS9-GSK3β, pS2448-mTOR, pT389-p70S6K and respective total protein levels were determined in plasma nEVs from 48 DNFES patients and healthy matched controls after overnight fasting.

Results:

Upstream pS312-IRS-1 was reduced at trend level (p = 0.071; this condition may amplify IRS-1 signaling). Exploratory omnibus analysis of downstream serine-threonine kinases (AKT, GSK3β, mTOR, p70S6K) revealed lower phosphorylated/total protein ratios in DNFES vs. controls (p = 0.013), confirming decreased pathway activation. Post-hoc-tests indicated in particular a reduced phosphorylation ratio of mTOR (p = 0.027). Phosphorylation ratios of p70S6K (p = 0.029), GSK3β (p = 0.039), and at trend level AKT (p = 0.061), showed diagnosis-dependent statistical interactions with insulin blood levels. The phosphorylation ratio of AKT correlated inversely with PANSS-G and PANSS-total scores, and other ratios showed similar trends.

Conclusion:

These findings support the hypothesis of neuronal insulin resistance in DNFES, small sample sizes notwithstanding. The counterintuitive trend towards reduced pS312-IRS-1 in DNFES may result from adaptive feedback mechanisms. The observed changes in insulin signaling could be clinically meaningful as suggested by their association with higher PANSS scores.
Rendezvous design in a cislunar near rectilinear Halo orbit
Authors: Blazquez E. , Beauregard L. , Lizy-Destrez S. , Ankersen F. , Capolupo F.
Published: October 2019

In the context of future human spaceflight exploration missions, Rendezvous and Docking (RVD) activities are critical for the assembly and maintenance of cislunar structures. The scope of this research is to investigate the specifics of orbits of interest for RVD in the cislunar realm and to propose novel strategies to safely perform these kinds of operations. This paper focuses on far rendezvous approaches and passively safe drift trajectories in the Ephemeris model. The goal is to exhibit phasing orbit requirements to ensure a safe far approach. Ephemeris representations of Near Rectilinear Halo Orbits (NRHOs) were derived using multiple-shooting and adaptive receding-horizon targeting algorithms. Simulations showed significant drift and overlapping properties for phasing and target orbits of interest, motivating the search for safe natural drift trajectories and using impact prediction strategies.
Willingness to Pay, Quality Perception, and Local Foods: The Case of Broccoli
Authors: Fan Xiaoli , Gómez Miguel I. , Coles Phillip S.
Published: October 2019

A large and growing body of literature has studied consumer willingness to pay (WTP) for local foods in the United States. However, these studies implicitly assume that consumers perceive local foods to have superior quality than nonlocal foods. Little is known about WTP for local foods when taking into account differences in consumer perception of food quality between local and nonlocal foods. In this article, we conduct an economic experiment to assess the effect of locally grown information on consumer WTP and quality perceptions of three broccoli varieties (one commercial variety grown in California and two newly developed local varieties). Our results show that consumers rate both the appearance and the taste of the two local broccoli varieties lower than the California variety when evaluating food quality blindly. However, consumers’ evaluations of the two local varieties improve substantially after being told the two varieties are locally grown. Results also indicate that consumers are willing to pay a price premium for the two local varieties after being told that they are locally grown. Our results provide evidence that locally grown information has a positive effect on both consumer WTP and quality perception of local foods.
New insights into ice accumulation at Galena Creek Rock Glacier from radar imaging of its internal structure
Authors: Petersen Eric Ivan , Levy Joseph S. , Holt John W. , Stuurman Cassie M.
Published: October 2019

The ice-cored Galena Creek Rock Glacier, Wyoming, USA, has been the subject of a number of studies that sought to determine the origin of its ice. We present new observations of the rock glacier's internal structure from ground-penetrating radar to constrain ice and debris distribution and accumulation. We imaged dipping reflectors in the center of the glacier that are weak and discontinuous, in contrast to strong reflectors toward the edge of the cirque beneath large debris-avalanche chutes. These reflectors form a network of concave-up, up-glacier dipping layers. We interpret these as englacial debris bands formed by large debris falls buried by subsequent ice and snow accumulation. They are discontinuous where ice outpaces debris accumulation, but with sufficient debris accumulation an interleaved pattern of ice and debris layers can form. We propose a model in which the ice in these interleaved layers is snowfall preserved by debris-facilitated accumulation. Large debris falls that occur in early spring bury sections of the snowpack, which are then preserved through summer and incorporated into the rock glacier body over time. This study highlights the importance of sequential accumulation of ice and debris for understanding the dynamics of rock glaciers and debris-covered glaciers.
Childhood maltreatment and cognitive functioning in patients with major depressive disorder: a CAN-BIND-1 report
Authors: Chakrabarty Trisha , Harkness Kate L. , McInerney Shane J. , Quilty Lena C. , Milev Roumen V. , Kennedy Sidney H. , Frey Benicio N. , MacQueen Glenda M. , Müller Daniel J. , Rotzinger Susan , Uher Rudolf , Lam Raymond W.
Published: October 2019

Background

Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) display cognitive deficits in acutely depressed and remitted states. Childhood maltreatment is associated with cognitive dysfunction in adults, but its impact on cognition and treatment related cognitive outcomes in adult MDD has received little consideration. We investigate whether, compared to patients without maltreatment and healthy participants, adult MDD patients with childhood maltreatment display greater cognitive deficits in acute depression, lower treatment-associated cognitive improvements, and lower cognitive performance in remission.

Methods

Healthy and acutely depressed MDD participants were enrolled in a multi-center MDD predictive marker discovery trial. MDD participants received 16 weeks of standardized antidepressant treatment. Maltreatment and cognition were assessed with the Childhood Experience of Care and Abuse interview and the CNS Vital Signs battery, respectively. Cognitive scores and change from baseline to week 16 were compared amongst MDD participants with (DM+, n = 93) and without maltreatment (DM−, n = 90), and healthy participants with (HM+, n = 22) and without maltreatment (HM−, n = 80). Separate analyses in MDD participants who remitted were conducted.

Results

DM+ had lower baseline global cognition, processing speed, and memory v. HM−, with no significant baseline differences amongst DM−, HM+, and HM− groups. There were no significant between-group differences in cognitive change over 16 weeks. Post-treatment remitted DM+, but not remitted DM−, scored significantly lower than HM− in working memory and processing speed.

Conclusions

Childhood maltreatment was associated with cognitive deficits in depressed and remitted adults with MDD. Maltreatment may be a risk factor for more severe and persistent cognitive deficits in adult MDD.
Sexual victimization, PTSD, depression, and social support among women survivors of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti: a moderated moderation model
Authors: Cénat Jude Mary , Smith Kevin , Morse Catherine , Derivois Daniel
Published: October 2019

Background

In 2010, an important earthquake devastated Haiti and caused thousands of deaths. In a social context where women are particularly vulnerable, this cross-sectional study examined the associations between sexual assaults experienced by women before the earthquake, the earthquake exposure, the traumatic consequences, and their satisfaction of social support received.

Methods

A total of 660 women aged 18 to 86 completed questionnaires assessing exposure to the earthquake, sexual assault victimization, peritraumatic distress, Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and social support. A moderated moderation model was computed to examine associations between exposure to the earthquake, sexual assault, social support, and traumatic consequences.

Results

Results showed that 31.06% of women were victims of sexual assault before the earthquake. They presented higher prevalence of peritraumatic distress, PTSD, and depression symptoms, compared to non-victims. The moderated-moderation model showed that sexual assault and exposure to the earthquake were positively associated with traumatic consequences (respectively, B = 0.560, p < 0.001; B = 0.196, p < 0.001), while social support was negatively associated with them (B = −0.095, p < 0.05). Results showed a triple interaction: women victim of sexual assault who were satisfied with received social support are less likely to develop traumatic consequences after being exposed to the earthquake(B = −0.141, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

By demonstrating the role of sexual assault in the development of mental health problems after the Haitian earthquake, this study shows the importance for clinicians to investigate interpersonal trauma experienced before or following natural disasters among survivors. Results also indicate the key role of family and communities to help survivors build resilience and coping strategies with their social support.
Avdo Međedović’s Post-Traditional Epics and Their Relevance to Homeric Studies
Authors: Čolaković Zlatan
Published: October 2019

[Milman Parry established first that Homeric poetry was traditional, based on his studies of its formulae and language, and then that it was oral, based on his experience of recording south Slavic epic; he likened the unusually long epics of Avdo Međedović to those of Homer. Albert Lord put the two concepts together, holding that both south Slavic epic and Homeric poetry were oral-traditional and that all oral epic poetry, including that of Međedović, is traditional. However, the author’s investigations into the Milman Parry Collection of Oral Literature and his personal experience of collecting epics in Montenegro in 1989 prove that this is incorrect. The poems of Avdo Međedović do not conform to traditional uses of language, theme and story-patterns, but offer something new, of which other traditional singers disapproved, as their recorded conversations demonstrate. Similarly, by analogy, the epics of Homer differed from the traditional poems of the Epic Cycle, exactly as Aristotle indicates in the Poetics. Hence neither Međedović nor, by analogy, Homer were fully traditional poets, although they were oral poets; instead, they deliberately adapted the tradition so that the old stories were mixed and matched into much lengthier and more complex epics, which should be called post-traditional.]
Cellular Invasion and Matrix Degradation, a Different Type of Matrix-Degrading Cells in the Cartilage of Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Japanese Quail Embryos (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Soliman Soha A. , Kamal Basma Mohamed , Abd-Elhafeez Hanan H.
Published: October 2019

We previously studied the phenomena of the mesenchymal cell-dependent mode of cartilage growth in quail and catfish. Thus, we selected the two cartilage models in which mesenchymal cells participate in their growth. In such models, cartilage degradation occurred to facilitate cellular invasion. The studies do not explain the nature of the cartilage degrading cells. The current study aims to explore the nature of the cartilage-degrading cells using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and immunohistochemistry. Samples of cartilage have been isolated from the air-breathing organ of catfish and the cartilage of the prospective occipital bone of quail embryos. Samples have been processed for TEM and immunohistochemistry. We found that two different cell types are involved in cartilage degradation; the macrophage in the cartilage of catfish and mesenchymal cells in the cartilage of the quail. Areas of cellular invasion in both catfish cartilage and quail embryo cartilage had an immunological affinity for MMP-9. In catfish, cartilage-degrading cells had identical morphological features of macrophages, whereas in quail embryos, cartilage-degrading cells were mesenchymal-like cells which had cell processes rich in vesicles and expressed CD117. Further study should consider the role of macrophage and mesenchymal cells during cartilage degradation. This could be valuable to be applied to remove the defective cartilage matrix formed in osteoarthritic patients to improve cartilage repair strategies.
Modular synthesis of α-fluorinated arylmethanes via desulfonylative cross-coupling
Authors: Nambo Masakazu , Yim Jacky C.-H. , Freitas Luiza B. O. , Tahara Yasuyo , Ariki Zachary T. , Maekawa Yuuki , Yokogawa Daisuke , Crudden Cathleen M.
Published: October 2019

α-Fluoromethylarenes are common substructures in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, with the introduction of fluorine often resulting in improved biological activity and stability. Despite recent progress, synthetic routes to α-fluorinated diarylmethanes are still rare. Herein we describe the Pd-catalyzed Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling of α-fluorinated benzylic triflones with arylboronic acids affording structurally diverse α-fluorinated diarylmethanes. The ease of synthesis of fluorinated triflones as the key starting materials enables powerful late-stage transformations of known biologically active compounds into fluorinated analogs.
Adaptation of Plasmodium falciparum to humans involved the loss of an ape-specific erythrocyte invasion ligand
Authors: Proto William R. , Siegel Sasha V. , Dankwa Selasi , Liu Weimin , Kemp Alison , Marsden Sarah , Zenonos Zenon A. , Unwin Steve , Sharp Paul M. , Wright Gavin J. , Hahn Beatrice H. , Duraisingh Manoj T. , Rayner Julian C.
Published: October 2019

Plasmodium species are frequently host-specific, but little is currently known about the molecular factors restricting host switching. This is particularly relevant for P. falciparum, the only known human-infective species of the Laverania sub-genus, all other members of which infect African apes. Here we show that all tested P. falciparum isolates contain an inactivating mutation in an erythrocyte invasion associated gene, PfEBA165, the homologues of which are intact in all ape-infective Laverania species. Recombinant EBA165 proteins only bind ape, not human, erythrocytes, and this specificity is due to differences in erythrocyte surface sialic acids. Correction of PfEBA165 inactivating mutations by genome editing yields viable parasites, but is associated with down regulation of both PfEBA165 and an adjacent invasion ligand, which suggests that PfEBA165 expression is incompatible with parasite growth in human erythrocytes. Pseudogenization of PfEBA165 may represent a key step in the emergence and evolution of P. falciparum.