bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Manipulation of an Active Steerable Needle via Actuation of Multiple SMA Wires
Authors: Konh Bardia , Sasaki Dayne , Podder Tarun K. , Ashrafiuon Hashem
Published: May 2019

Many medical procedures such as brachytherapy, thermal ablations, and biopsies are performed using needle-based procedures. In this work, 3D manipulation of an active needle realized by multiple Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuators was first predicted by Finite Element Analyses (FEA), and then demonstrated by a fabricate prototype. The FEA results were validated by planar deflection of an active needle. A similar FEA was developed to predict 3D manipulation of the active needle. For 17-gage needle, a maximum of 26° reversible deflection was achieved in 3D space via actuation forces of a 0.127 mm SMA wire. A scaled prototype was also developed and tested to show the feasibility of developing a 3D steering active needle with multiple actuators.
Two Novelties in Euripides
Authors: Doyle Richard E.
Published: May 2019

The two novelties to be discussed in this article are the Euripidean association of ἄτη and μοĩϱα at Medea 976–988 and at Electra 1301–1307. Briefly stated, these two novelties, or new concepts, are as follows: first, in Medea 976–988, for the first time in extant Greek literature, μοĩϱα is associated with ἄτη not in the latter's subjective meaning of ‘blindness,’ ‘infatuation,’ or ‘folly,’ but rather in its objective meaning of ‘ruin,’ ‘calamity,’ or ‘disaster’; secondly, an entirely new meaning for ἄτη is introduced at Electra 1301–1307, inasmuch as in this passage ἄτη means μοĩϱα, ‘fate’ or ‘destiny,’ again for the first time in extant Greek literature.
Tradition und Kritik: zur Auseinandersetzung des Thomas von Aquin mit dem ihm Überlieferten Platonismus in der ‘Expositio super librum Boethii de Trinitate’
Authors: Weidemann Hermann
Published: May 2019

Im ersten Kapitel seiner Schrift über die Trinität führt Boethius die Arianische Irrlehre, der zufolge die drei göttlichen Personen nicht ein einziger Gott, sondern drei verschiedene Götter sind, darauf zurück, dass es nach der Meinung der Arianeι sowohl dem Sohn als auch dem Heiligen Geist in einer anderen Weise zukommt, Gott zu sein, als dem Vater. Daraus, dass jede der drei göttlichen Personen in einer anderen Weise Gott ist als die andere, folgt nämlich, dass diese drei Personen viele Götter sind; denn die Vielheit gründet, wie Boethius zu zeigen versucht, in der ‘Andersheit’: ‘Principium enim plura-litatis alteritas est.’
A Chronology of the Writings of Engelbert of Admont, O.S.B. (CA. 1250–1331)
Authors: Fowler George B.
Published: May 2019

Any attempt to determine when Engelbert wrote the numerous works attributed to him necessarily depends heavily on earlier studies and extensively on guesswork. Very seldom does our author mention earlier works or give any indication of the date of his writing. He did not know how to bring his writings to the favorable notice of persons in power. He did not keep track of exact titles of his works, nor did he make any effort to ensure that the abbey of Admont had a copy. His recollection of titles and incipits of his works is often faulty. The following list is somewhat better than earlier efforts because certain preliminary studies and editions have been made; but more than sixteen of Engelbert's writings have yet to be printed!
A Comprehensive Look at the Results of Special Education
Authors: Gardner James M.
Published: May 2019

The Literature on the effects of segregated vs. integrated school experience for mildly intellectually handicapped children is considered in the light of four questions: (1) What is the effect upon the person of being labelled and segregated? (2) Does segregation provide a better learning experience? (3) Does segregation provide for better social and emotional adjustment? and (4) What alternatives are available? In general, the literature supports the view that integration is more desirable both in terms of intellectual and emotional gain.
Monitoring Adverse Psychosocial Outcomes One and Two Years After the Lac-Mégantic Train Derailment Tragedy (Eastern Townships, Quebec, Canada)
Authors: Généreux Mélissa , Maltais Danielle , Petit Geneviève , Roy Mathieu
Published: May 2019

Introduction:

In July 2013, a train carrying 72 cars of crude oil derailed in the town of Lac-Mégantic (Eastern Townships, Quebec, Canada). This disaster provoked a major conflagration, explosions, 47 deaths, the destruction of 44 buildings, the evacuation of one-third of the local population, and an unparalleled oil spill. Notwithstanding the environmental impact, many citizens of this town and in surrounding areas have suffered and continue to suffer substantial losses as a direct consequence of this catastrophe.

Problem:

To tailor public health interventions and to meet the psychosocial needs of the community, the Public Health Department of Eastern Townships has undertaken repeated surveys to monitor health and well-being over time. This study focuses on negative psychosocial outcomes one and two years after the tragedy.

Methods:

Two cross-sectional surveys (2014 and 2015) were conducted among large random samples of adults in Lac-Mégantic and surrounding areas (2014: n = 811; 2015: n = 800), and elsewhere in the region (2014: n = 7,926; 2015: n = 800). A wide range of psychosocial outcomes was assessed (ie, daily stress, main source of stress, sense of insecurity, psychological distress, excessive drinking, anxiety or mood disorders, psychosocial services use, anxiolytic drug use, gambling habits, and posttraumatic stress symptoms [PSS]). Exposure to the tragedy was assessed using residential location (ie, six-digit postal code) and intensity of exposure (ie, intense, moderate, or low exposure; from nine items capturing human, material, or subjective losses). Relationships between such exposures and adverse psychosocial outcomes were examined using chi-squares and t-tests. Distribution of outcomes was also examined over time.

Results:

One year after the disaster, an important proportion of participants reported human, material, and subjective losses (64%, 23%, and 54%, respectively), whereas 17% of people experienced intense exposure. Participants from Lac-Mégantic, particularly those intensely exposed, were much more likely to report psychological distress, depressive episode, anxiety disorders, and anxiolytic drug use, relative to less-exposed ones. In 2015, 67% of the Lac-Mégantic participants (76% of intensely exposed) reported moderate to severe PSS. Surprisingly, the use of psychosocial services in Lac-Mégantic declined by 41% from 2014 to 2015.

Conclusion:

The psychosocial burden in the aftermath of the Lac-Mégantic tragedy is substantial and persistent. Public health organizations responding to large-scaling disasters should monitor long-term psychosocial consequences and advocate for community-based psychosocial support in order to help citizens in their recovery process.
Opening European Research to the World: Evidence from International Cooperation
Authors: Schmidt Evanthia Kalpazidou
Published: May 2019

In recent years, the European Union (EU) has intensified efforts to open European research programmes to the world. This paper focuses on the opening of European research to the world by studying the case of the FP7 international cooperation programme. It is based on a mixed-methods approach including analyses of quantitative data, documents and interviews with programme participants, policymakers and other stakeholders involved in 131 EU projects worldwide. The paper identifies features specific to the European international research cooperation scheme and contributes to our understanding of the supranational intervention and its impact on European research integration. Policymakers can use this piece of evidence to formulate enhanced strategies and better design and target activities both within the EU and globally, to achieve stronger, long-lasting research outcomes and effects.
Keeping two languages apart: Connective processing in both languages of Russian–German bilinguals
Authors: Mak Pim , Lomako Julia , Gagarina Natalia , Abrosova Ekaterina , Tribushinina Elena
Published: May 2019

Multilingual children are faced with the task of selectively using the linguistic systems of their languages. Previous research has shown that although bilinguals may make more errors in production and comprehension than their monolingual peers, less cognitively demanding processing experiments may reveal target-like performance. This has been attributed to several factors, among which language transfer and processing limitations. In this study we investigate the processing of additive connectives in both languages of German–Russian bilingual children using the Visual World Paradigm. Previous research has shown that bilingual children make many errors in the production of these connectives in Russian. The results show that the processing behaviour in both languages of the bilingual children does not differ from that of their monolingual peers. This finding is compatible with the view that errors in production and in more demanding comprehension tasks are due to processing limitations.
Obese women’s perceptions of weight gain during pregnancy: a theory-based analysis
Authors: Nagourney Emily M , Goodman Dina , Lam Yukyan , Hurley Kristen M , Henderson Janice , Surkan Pamela J
Published: May 2019

Objective:

Excess gestational weight gain (GWG) in obese women is linked to adverse maternal outcomes and is particularly pervasive among African Americans, who have the highest obesity rates in the USA. A better understanding of culturally relevant attitudes and perceptions of GWG is needed to develop targeted interventions to prevent excess GWG among this group.

Design:

Using the constructs of Social Cognitive Theory, we explored attitudes and perceptions surrounding diet and exercise among low-income obese African-American pregnant women in Baltimore. We conducted twenty-one semi-structured in-depth interviews with pregnant adult women.

Setting:

Participants were recruited from a referral clinic for obese pregnant women at a large urban hospital in Baltimore, MD, USA.

Participants:

Twenty-one low-income African-American adult females in the first two trimesters of pregnancy with BMI > 30·0 kg/m2.

Results:

Lack of knowledge was not the main obstacle to healthy behaviours during pregnancy. Rather, food cravings and fatigue, an unhealthy physical food environment, limited self-efficacy for controlling excessive GWG, and a lack of adequate emotional and informational support impacted women’s agency. While digital technology was discussed as a vehicle to promote maintenance of a healthy weight in pregnancy, further research is needed to test how it can be used to empower women to engage in healthy behaviours during pregnancy.

Conclusion:

Interventions to prevent excess GWG among African-American pregnant women should harness support from partners and family and must go beyond sharing of clinical knowledge to also include strategies that improve the food environment, diet quality and self-efficacy.
Liposarcoma of the left hemithorax and implications of MDM2
Authors: Stolten Michael , Sahasrabudhe Deepak , Constine Louis
Published: May 2019

Background:

Use of molecular information to guide clinical management of thoracic liposarcoma following resection.

Case presentation:

We present a case of a large liposarcoma of the left hemithorax. Initial biopsy consistent with lipoma however following resection pathology showed well-differentiated liposarcoma. Clinical data and molecular information including MDM2 from the tumour were employed in decision making regarding subsequent adjuvant radiation therapy versus close observation.

Conclusion:

Improved molecular characterisation has increased the precision of histological diagnoses and prediction of outcomes for many cancers. These may continue to help guide and strengthen clinical decision making and recommendations as they pertain to adjuvant therapy versus observation in the case of this patient.
The Women's Movement Knocks on the Door: Theorizing the Strategy, Context and Impact of Frauen Macht Politik (FraP!) on Women's Representation in Swiss Politics
Authors: Cowell-Meyers Kimberly B.
Published: May 2019

“Get up, stand up and live! That's a movement.” — Elisabeth Joris (Joris 2015b)

Are women's parties effective? More than 50 women's parties have emerged since 1990 in countries all over the world, contesting and winning seats in local, national, and regional legislatures. Although women's parties are not infrequent, appear in a variety of contexts, and advance common agendas related to inclusion and equality, we know very little about their experiences or whether they have been able to achieve their goals. In this article, Frauen Macht Politik (FraP!) is examined to consider whether and how women's parties present an avenue for advancing women's movement goals. The evidence shows that forming a party can help the movement to set the public agenda, can increase the attention paid to their issues, and can influence the formal institutions of politics. Many variables neglected elsewhere in the literature shape the ability of niche parties to affect the commitments of more established parties: the nature of the small party; its composition, intent, reach, and resources; its institutional context; and the boundaries of the organization. These features also determine the extent to which women's movements can use a political party to influence the representativeness of a political system.
Perspective on Landfalling Frequency and Genesis Location Variations of Southern China Typhoon During Peak Summer
Authors: Zhang Chengyang , Hu Chundi , Huang Gang , Yao Cai , Zheng Zhihai , Wang Teng , Wu Zeming , Yang Song , Chen Dake
Published: May 2019

Increasing intense landfalling typhoons (LFTYs) are of great coastal threatens to southern China. However, changes in genesis location and landfalling frequency of western North Pacific (WNP) LFTY dedicated to southern China remain unclear. Here we identified such LFTYs during peak summer and found that most LFTYs formed south of 20°N and the LFTY genesis locations over southern WNP have also experienced a sharp interdecadal shift since 1998, which are mainly attributed to the large‐scale environment changes induced by the Mega‐La Niña‐like climate shift. However, LFTY frequency (= “landfalling frequency of southern China typhoon”) shows a slight increasing trend but without significant interdecadal variation. Variations of LFTY frequency are mainly affected by the easterly steering flows near 20°N over the South China Sea and the Philippine Sea, which are closely linked to the WNP subtropical high activity. Our results provide a new perspective on the LFTY activities dedicated to southern China.
MERIT Hydro: A High‐Resolution Global Hydrography Map Based on Latest Topography Dataset
Authors: Yamazaki Dai , Ikeshima Daiki , Sosa Jeison , Bates Paul D. , Allen George H. , Pavelsky Tamlin M.
Published: May 2019

High‐resolution raster hydrography maps are a fundamental data source for many geoscience applications. Here we introduce MERIT Hydro, a new global flow direction map at 3‐arc sec resolution (~90 m at the equator) derived from the latest elevation data (MERIT DEM) and water body data sets (G1WBM, Global Surface Water Occurrence, and OpenStreetMap). We developed a new algorithm to extract river networks near automatically by separating actual inland basins from dummy depressions caused by the errors in input elevation data. After a minimum amount of hand editing, the constructed hydrography map shows good agreement with existing quality‐controlled river network data sets in terms of flow accumulation area and river basin shape. The location of river streamlines was realistically aligned with existing satellite‐based global river channel data. Relative error in the drainage area was <0.05 for 90% of Global Runoff Data Center (GRDC) gauges, confirming the accuracy of the delineated global river networks. Discrepancies in flow accumulation area were found mostly in arid river basins containing depressions that are occasionally connected at high water levels and thus resulting in uncertain watershed boundaries. MERIT Hydro improves on existing global hydrography data sets in terms of spatial coverage (between N90 and S60) and representation of small streams, mainly due to increased availability of high‐quality baseline geospatial data sets. The new flow direction and flow accumulation maps, along with accompanying supplementary layers on hydrologically adjusted elevation and channel width, will advance geoscience studies related to river hydrology at both global and local scales.
The major secreted protein of the whipworm parasite tethers to matrix and inhibits interleukin-13 function
Authors: Bancroft Allison J. , Levy Colin W. , Jowitt Thomas A. , Hayes Kelly S. , Thompson Seona , Mckenzie Edward A. , Ball Matthew D. , Dubaissi Eamon , France Aidan P. , Bellina Bruno , Sharpe Catherine , Mironov Aleksandr , Brown Sheila L. , Cook Peter C. , S. MacDonald Andrew , Thornton David J. , Grencis Richard K.
Published: May 2019

Infection by soil transmitted parasitic helminths, such asTrichuris spp, are ubiquitous in humans and animals but the mechanisms determining persistence of chronic infections are poorly understood. Here we show that p43, the single most abundant protein inT. murisexcretions/secretions, is non-immunogenic during infection and has an unusual sequence and structure containing subdomain homology to thrombospondin type 1 and interleukin (IL)−13 receptor (R) α2. Binding of p43 to IL-13, the key effector cytokine responsible forT. murisexpulsion, inhibits IL-13 function both in vitro and in vivo. Tethering of p43 to matrix proteoglycans presents a bound source of p43 to facilitate interaction with IL-13, which may underpin chronic intestinal infection. Our results suggest that exploiting the biology of p43 may open up new approaches to modulating IL-13 function and control ofTrichurisinfections.
Switching acidity on manganese oxide catalyst with acetylacetones for selectivity-tunable amines oxidation
Authors: Jia Xiuquan , Ma Jiping , Xia Fei , Gao Mingxia , Gao Jin , Xu Jie
Published: May 2019

The design of metal oxide catalysts predominantly focuses on the composition or geometry engineering to enable optimized reactivity on the surface. Despite the numerous reports investigating the surface chemisorption of organic molecules on metal oxides, insights into how adsorption of organic modifiers can be exploited to optimize the catalytic properties of metal oxides are lacking. Herein, we describe the use of enolic acetylacetones to modify the surface Lewis acid properties of manganese oxide catalysts. The acetylacetone modification is stable under the reaction conditions and strongly influences the redox-acid cooperative catalysis of manganese oxides. This enables a rational control of the oxidation selectivity of structurally diverse arylmethyl amines to become switchable from nitriles to imines.
Redefining passivity breakdown of super duplex stainless steel by electrochemical operando synchrotron near surface X-ray analyses
Authors: Långberg Marie , Örnek Cem , Evertsson Jonas , Harlow Gary S. , Linpé Weronica , Rullik Lisa , Carlà Francesco , Felici Roberto , Bettini Eleonora , Kivisäkk Ulf , Lundgren Edvin , Pan Jinshan
Published: May 2019

Passivity determines corrosion resistance and stability of highly-alloyed stainless steels, and passivity breakdown is commonly believed to occur at a fixed potential due to formation and dissolution of Cr(VI) species. In this work, the study of a 25Cr–7Ni super duplex stainless steel in 1 M NaCl solution revealed that the passivity breakdown is a continuous degradation progress of the passive film over a potential range, associated with enhanced Fe dissolution before rapid Cr dissolution and removal of the oxide. The breakdown involves structural and compositional changes of the passive film and the underlying alloy surface layer, as well as selective metal dissolution depending on the anodic potential. The onset of passivity breakdown occurred at 1000 mV/Ag/AgCl, and Fe dissolved more on the ferrite than the austenite phase. With increasing potential, the passive film became thicker but less dense, while the underlying alloy surface layer became denser indicating Ni and Mo enrichment. Rapid Cr dissolution occurred at ≥1300 mV/Ag/AgCl.
The TLR4 agonist adjuvant SLA-SE promotes functional mucosal antibodies against a parenterally delivered ETEC vaccine
Authors: Liang Hong , Poncet David , Seydoux Emilie , Rintala Nicholas D. , Maciel Milton , Ruiz Sophie , Orr Mark T.
Published: May 2019

Many pathogens establish infection at mucosal surfaces such as the enteric pathogen Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC). Thus, there is a pressing need for effective vaccination strategies that promote protective immunity at mucosal surfaces. Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands have been extensively developed as vaccine adjuvants to promote systemic immunity, whereas attenuated bacterial toxins including cholera toxin and heat-labile toxin (LT) have initially been developed to promote mucosal immunity. Here we evaluate the ability of the TLR4 agonist second-generation lipid adjuvant formulated in a stable emulsion (SLA-SE) to augment functional mucosal antibodies elicited by intramuscular immunization with a recombinant ETEC vaccine antigen. We find that, in mice, parenterally delivered SLA-SE is at least as effective as the double-mutant LT (LTR192G/L211A, dmLT) adjuvant in promoting functional antibodies and eliciting intestinal IgA responses to the vaccine antigen. In addition, SLA-SE enhanced both the IgG2a response in the mucosa and serum, and the production of LT neutralizing serum antibodies elicited by dmLT four to eightfold. These results reveal unexpected mucosal adjuvant properties of this TLR4 agonist adjuvant when delivered intramuscularly. This may have a substantial impact on the development of vaccines against enteric and other mucosal pathogens.
Synthesis, structural and morphological characterizations of nano-Ru-based perovskites/RGO composites
Authors: Galal Ahmed , Hassan Hagar K. , Atta Nada F. , Abdel-Mageed Ali M. , Jacob Timo
Published: May 2019

Highly-dispersed Ru-based perovskites supported on reduced graphene oxide (A-RG) nanocomposites are prepared using differentA-metal salts (Sr(NO3)2, Ba(NO3)2and Ca(NO3)2). The procedure is based on a redox reaction between the metal precursors and graphene oxide (GO) using two different routes of reaction initiation: through thermal heating or by microwave-assisted heating. The resulting nanocomposites do not require further calcination, making this method less energy-demanding. In addition, no additional chemical reagents are required for either the GO reduction or the metal precursor oxidation, leading to an overall simple and direct synthesis method. The structure and morphology of the as-preparedA-RG (non-calcined) nanocomposites are characterized using various structural analyses including XRD, XPS, SEM/EDX and HR-TEM. Changing metalAin the perovskite as well as the “activation method” resulted in significant structural and morphological changes of the formed composites. SrRuO3and BaRuO3in combination with RuO2are obtained using a conventional combustion method, while SrRuO3(~1 nm size) in combination with Ru nanoparticles are successfully prepared using microwave irradiation. For the first time, a microwave-assisted synthesis method (without calcination) was used to form crystalline nano-CaRuO3.
Unique quantitative Symbiodiniaceae signature of coral colonies revealed through spatio-temporal survey in Moorea
Authors: Rouzé Héloïse , Lecellier Gaël , Pochon Xavier , Torda Gergely , Berteaux-Lecellier Véronique
Published: May 2019

One of the mechanisms of rapid adaptation or acclimatization to environmental changes in corals is through the dynamics of the composition of their associated endosymbiotic Symbiodiniaceae community. The various species of these dinoflagellates are characterized by different biological properties, some of which can confer stress tolerance to the coral host. Compelling evidence indicates that the corals’ Symbiodiniaceae community can change via shuffling and/or switching but the ecological relevance and the governance of these processes remain elusive. Using a qPCR approach to follow the dynamics of Symbiodiniaceae genera in tagged colonies of three coral species over a 10–18 month period, we detected putative genus-level switching of algal symbionts, with coral species-specific rates of occurrence. However, the dynamics of the corals’ Symbiodiniaceae community composition was not driven by environmental parameters. On the contrary, putative shuffling event were observed in two coral species during anomalous seawater temperatures and nutrient concentrations. Most notably, our results reveal that a suit of permanent Symbiodiniaceae genera is maintained in each colony in a specific range of quantities, giving a unique ‘Symbiodiniaceae signature’ to the host. This individual signature, together with sporadic symbiont switching may account for the intra-specific differences in resistance and resilience observed during environmental anomalies.
Time course images of cellular injury and recovery in murine brain with high-resolution GRIN lens system
Authors: Pernici Chelsea D. , Kemp Benjamin S. , Murray Teresa A.
Published: May 2019

Time course, in vivo imaging of brain cells is crucial to fully understand the progression of secondary cellular damage and recovery in murine models of injury. We have combined high-resolution gradient index lens technology with a model of diffuse axonal injury in rodents to enable repeated visualization of fine features of individual cells in three-dimensional space over several weeks. For example, we recorded changes in morphology in the same axons in the external capsule numerous times over 30 to 60 days, before and after induced traumatic brain injury. We observed the expansion of secondary injury and limited recovery of individual axons in this subcortical white matter tract over time. In another application, changes in microglial activation state were visualized in the penumbra region of mice before and after ischemia induced by middle carotid artery occlusion. The ability to collect a series of high-resolution images of cellular features of the same cells pre- and post-injury enables a unique opportunity to study the progression of damage, spontaneous healing, and effects of therapeutics in mouse models of neurodegenerative disease and brain injury.
Enhanced Z-isomerization of tomato lycopene through the optimal combination of food ingredients
Authors: Honda Masaki , Kageyama Hakuto , Hibino Takashi , Takemura Ryota , Goto Motonobu , Fukaya Tetsuya
Published: May 2019

In tomatoes, most lycopene is present in the all-E-configuration and shows very low bioavailability, whereas the Z-isomers show higher bioavailability. Hence, for health reasons, it is expected that the ingestion of lycopene Z-isomers is preferable. Very recently, it was reported that onion and possibly garlic promoted thermal Z-isomerization of (all-E)-lycopene but there are no reports for other food ingredients. Here we show new food ingredients that enhance thermal Z-isomerization of lycopene in tomatoes and from the results, we guessed some causative components having the Z-isomerization promoting effect. A comprehensive investigation of food ingredients revealed that some vegetables (Allium sp., Brassica sp., and Raphanus sp.), shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes), and some edible seaweeds (Saccharina sp. and Ecklonia sp.) markedly promoted Z-isomerization of (all-E)-lycopene in tomato puree with heating at 80 °C for 1 h. Moreover, it was revealed that polysulfides, isothiocyanates, carbon disulfide, and iodine, which were commonly contained in the above food ingredients in considerable quantity, enhanced thermal Z-isomerization of (all-E)-lycopene. Our findings on the food ingredients and the food-derived catalysts having a carotenoid Z-isomerization promoting effect are important, not only for the food, drink, and dietary supplement manufacturing industries, but also for daily home cooking.
Establishment and Characterization of a New Cell Line Permissive for Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Omura Hitoshi , Liu Fanwei , Shimakami Tetsuro , Murai Kazuhisa , Shirasaki Takayoshi , Kitabayashi Juria , Funaki Masaya , Nishikawa Tomoki , Nakai Ryotaro , Sumiyadorj Ariunaa , Hayashi Takehiro , Yamashita Taro , Honda Masao , Kaneko Shuichi
Published: May 2019

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) cell culture systems have facilitated the development of efficient direct-acting antivirals against HCV. Huh-7.5, a subline of the human hepatoma cell line Huh-7, has been used widely to amplify HCV because HCV can efficiently replicate in these cells due to a defect in innate antiviral signalling. Recently, we established a novel cell line, KH, derived from human hepatocellular carcinoma, which showed atypical uptake of gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA) in a Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging study. KH cells expressed hepatocyte markers including microRNA-122 (miR-122) at a lower level than Huh-7.5 cells. We demonstrated that KH cells could support the entire life cycle of HCV; however, HCV replicated at a lower rate in KH cells compared to Huh-7.5 cells, and virus particles produced from KH cells seemed to have some disadvantages in viral assembly compared with those produced from Huh-7.5 cells. KH cells had more robust interferon-stimulated gene expression and induction upon HCV RNA transfection, interferon-α2b addition, and HCV infection than Huh-7.5 cells. Interestingly, both miR-122 supplementation and IRF3 knockout in KH cells boosted HCV replication to a similar level as in Huh-7.5 cells, suggesting that intact innate antiviral signalling and lower miR-122 expression limit HCV replication in KH cells. KH cells will enable a deeper understanding of the role of the innate immune response in persistent HCV infection.
Excited States and Optical Properties of Hydrogen-Passivated Rectangular Graphenes: A Computational Study
Authors: Rai Deepak Kumar , Shukla Alok
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we perform large-scale electron-correlated calculations of optoelectronic properties of rectangular graphene-like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon molecules. Theoretical methodology employed in this work is based upon Pariser-Parr-Pople (PPP) π-electron model Hamiltonian, which includes long-range electron-electron interactions. Electron-correlation effects were incorporated using multi-reference singles-doubles configurationinteraction (MRSDCI) method, and the ground and excited state wave functions thus obtained were employed to calculate the linear optical absorption spectra of these molecules, within the electric-dipole approximation. As far as the ground state wave functions of these molecules are concerned, we find that with the increasing size, they develop a strong diradical open-shell character. Our results on optical absorption spectra are in very good agreement with the available experimental results, outlining the importance of electron-correlation effects in accurate description of the excited states. In addition to the optical gap, spin gap of each molecule was also computed using the same methodology. Calculated spin gaps exhibit a decreasing trend with the increasing sizes of the molecules, suggesting that the infinite graphene has a vanishing spin gap.
Predatory behaviour and taphonomy of a Jurassic belemnoid coleoid (Diplobelida, Cephalopoda)
Authors: Jenny Dominique , Fuchs Dirk , Arkhipkin Alexander I. , Hauff Rolf B. , Fritschi Barbara , Klug Christian
Published: May 2019

We describe four complete specimens of the early squid-like cephalopodClarkeiteuthis conocaudafrom the Toarcian Posidonienschiefer (Jurassic) each preserved with the bony fishLeptolepis bronniin its arms. Based on the arrangement of prey and predator, we suggest that the cephalopods caught and killed the fishes while still in well-oxygenated waters and then descended into oxygen-depleted water layers (distraction sinking) where the cephalopod suffocated. This explains the exceptional preservation, for which the Posidonienschiefer is famed. This association raises the question for the hunting behaviour of belemnoid Coleoidea. Using the proportions of soft and skeletal body parts of diplobelids and belemnitids, we estimated their body mass and buoyancy and determined the centres of mass and buoyancy. These two points were very close to each other in belemnitids, implying a low hydrodynamic stability (when ignoring the fins), while in diplobelids, the distance between those centres was greater. This suggests that diplobelids usually assumed an oblique to vertical orientation of the body axis while belemnitids could effortlessly achieve a horizontal orientation of their body. Presuming larger fins were attached to the bigger belemnitid rostra, belemnitids were better swimmers and perhaps pursuit predators while diplobelids rather ambushed their prey.
Shedding Light on Penetration of Cereal Host Stomata by Wheat Stem Rust Using Improved Methodology
Authors: Solanki Shyam , Ameen Gazala , Borowicz Pawel , Brueggeman Robert S.
Published: May 2019

Asexual urediniospore infection of primary cereal hosts by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt), the wheat stem rust pathogen, was considered biphasic. The first phase, spore germination and appressoria formation, requires a dark period and moisture. The second phase, host entry by the penetration peg originating from the appressoria formed over the guard cells, was thought to require light to induce natural stomata opening. Previous studies concluded that inhibition of colonization by the dark was due to lack of penetration through closed stomata. A sensitive WGA-Alexa Fluor 488 fungal staining, surface creation and biovolume analysis method was developed enabling visualization and quantification of fungal growth in planta at early infection stages surpassing visualization barriers using previous methods. The improved method was used to investigate infection processes of Pgt during stomata penetration and colonization in barley and wheat showing that penetration is light independent. Based on the visual growth and fungal biovolume analysis it was concluded that the differences in pathogen growth dynamics in both resistant and susceptible genotypes was due to light induced pathogen growth after penetration into the substomatal space. Thus, light induced plant or pathogen cues triggers pathogen growth in-planta post penetration.
Spatial distribution of freshwater crustaceans in Antarctic and Subantarctic lakes
Authors: Díaz Angie , Maturana Claudia S. , Boyero Luz , De Los Ríos Escalante Patricio , Tonin Alan M. , Correa-Araneda Francisco
Published: May 2019

Antarctic and Subantarctic lakes are unique ecosystems with relatively simple food webs, which are likely to be strongly affected by climate warming. While Antarctic freshwater invertebrates are adapted to extreme environmental conditions, little is known about the factors determining their current distribution and to what extent this is explained by biogeography or climate. We explored the distribution of freshwater crustaceans (one of the most abundant and diverse group of organisms in Antarctic and Subantarctic lakes) across four biogeographic provinces (Continental Antarctic, CA; Maritime Antarctic, MA; Subantarctic islands, SA; and Southern Cool Temperate, SCT) based on the literature, predicting that species distribution would be determined by biogeography, spatial autocorrelation among regions (in relation to dispersal) and climate. We found that variation in species composition was largely explained by the joint effect of spatial autocorrelation and climate, with little effect of biogeography – only regions within the SA province had a clearly distinct species composition. This highlights a plausible main influence of crustacean dispersal – mainly through migratory seabirds – and suggests that some regions will be more affected by climate warming than others, possibly in relation to the existence of nearby sources of colonists.
Compromised Air Quality and Healthcare Safety from Smoking inside Hospitals in Shantou, China
Authors: Zeng Jun , Zhang Dangui , Liu Yindu , Zhao Duanlong , Ou Yunxuan , Fang Jiezhuang , Zheng Shimin , Yin Jianbin , Chen Sicheng , Qiu Yiling , Qiu Zhenbin , Luo Siping , Zhou Hui , Lin Ying , Ba-Thein William
Published: May 2019

Achieving smoke-free healthcare facilities remains a great challenge in countries with a high smoking prevalence and weak regulation. Assessment of the impact of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and its constituent PM2.5 on the air quality in Chinese hospitals has not been reported. In this study, we conducted air quality surveys by measuring real-time PM2.5 concentrations with Dylos Air Quality Monitors in five tertiary hospitals in Shantou, China during summer (July-August 2016) and winter (November-February 2017). Twenty-eight-day surveys inside the hospitals showed median PM2.5 concentrations above the China Air Quality Standard in elevator lobbies (51.0 μg/m3, IQR 34.5–91.7), restrooms (40.2, 27.1–70.3), and corridors (36.5, 23.0–77.4). Evidence of tobacco smoking was significantly associated with PM2.5 spikes observed in all the survey locations, contributing to the air quality undesirable for health in 49.1% of total survey hours or 29.3% of summer and 75.4% of winter survey hours inside the buildings, and 33.5%, 25.7%, and 6.8% of survey hours in doctor offices, nurse stations, and patient rooms, respectively. In conclusion, smoking inside hospitals induces PM2.5 spikes that significantly compromise the air quality and impose significant health risk to the hospital inhabitants. Reinforcing comprehensive smoking ban with the vested interest of all stakeholders followed by creative disciplinary actions are suggested to ensure healthcare safety.
Using the high-temperature phase transition of iron sulfide minerals as an indicator of fault slip temperature
Authors: Chen Yan-Hong , Chen Yen-Hua , Hsu Wen-Dung , Chang Yin-Chia , Sheu Hwo-Shuenn , Lee Jey-Jau , Lin Shih-Kang
Published: May 2019

The transformation of pyrite into pyrrhotite above 500 °C was observed in the Chelungpu fault zone, which formed as a result of the 1999 Chi-Chi earthquake in Taiwan. Similarly, pyrite transformation to pyrrhotite at approximately 640 °C was observed during the Tohoku earthquake in Japan. In this study, we investigated the high-temperature phase-transition of iron sulfide minerals (greigite) under anaerobic conditions. We simulated mineral phase transformations during fault movement with the aim of determining the temperature of fault slip. The techniques used in this study included thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA) and in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD). We found diversification between 520 °C and 630 °C in the TG/DTA curves that signifies the transformation of pyrite into pyrrhotite. Furthermore, the in situ XRD results confirmed the sequence in which greigite underwent phase transitions to gradually transform into pyrite and pyrrhotite at approximately 320 °C. Greigite completely changed into pyrite and pyrrhotite at 450 °C. Finally, pyrite was completely transformed into pyrrhotite at 580 °C. Our results reveal the temperature and sequence in which the phase transitions of greigite occur, and indicate that this may be used to constrain the temperature of fault-slip. This conclusion is supported by field observations made following the Tohoku and Chi-Chi earthquakes.
PCA-PAM50 improves consistency between breast cancer intrinsic and clinical subtyping reclassifying a subset of luminal A tumors as luminal B
Authors: Raj-Kumar Praveen-Kumar , Liu Jianfang , Hooke Jeffrey A. , Kovatich Albert J. , Kvecher Leonid , Shriver Craig D. , Hu Hai
Published: May 2019

The PAM50 classifier is widely used for breast tumor intrinsic subtyping based on gene expression. Clinical subtyping, however, is based on immunohistochemistry assays of 3–4 biomarkers. Subtype calls by these two methods do not completely match even on comparable subtypes. Nevertheless, the estrogen receptor (ER)-balanced subset for gene-centering in PAM50 subtyping, is selected based on clinical ER status. Here we present a new method called Principle Component Analysis-based iterative PAM50 subtyping (PCA-PAM50) to perform intrinsic subtyping in ER status unbalanced cohorts. This method leverages PCA and iterative PAM50 calls to derive the gene expression-based ER status and a subsequent ER-balanced subset for gene centering. Applying PCA-PAM50 to three different breast cancer study cohorts, we observed improved consistency (by 6–9.3%) between intrinsic and clinical subtyping for all three cohorts. Particularly, a more aggressive subset of luminal A (LA) tumors as evidenced by higher MKI67 gene expression and worse patient survival outcomes, were reclassified as luminal B (LB) increasing the LB subtype consistency with IHC by 25–49%. In conclusion, we show that PCA-PAM50 enhances the consistency of breast cancer intrinsic and clinical subtyping by reclassifying an aggressive subset of LA tumors into LB. PCA-PAM50 code is available at ftp://ftp.wriwindber.org/.
Theoretical Stable Hydraulic Section based on the Principle of Least Action
Authors: Ohara Noriaki , Yamatani Katsu
Published: May 2019

Despite decades of effort, stable hydraulic geometry for an open channel water flow has hardly been established because of too many unknown variables for too few rational relationships. This article derives the most efficient channel cross section using calculus of variations for the given flow area at the minimum wetting perimeter length, which is equivalent to the principle of least action. Analysis indicates that water can most efficiently flow in a semi-ellipse section channel with minimum friction and erosion. Anisotropy in channel erodibility was found to be necessary in the natural stable channel characterization because gravitation force and channel bank consolidation cannot be ignored in earth surface material. This channel cross section, based on the principle of least action, may be regarded as the theoretical stable hydraulic section for erodible bed, which was comparable to the observed river cross-sections during high flow periods.
Low frequency Raman Spectroscopy for micron-scale and in vivo characterization of elemental sulfur in microbial samples
Authors: Nims Christine , Cron Brandi , Wetherington Maxwell , Macalady Jennifer , Cosmidis Julie
Published: May 2019

Elemental sulfur (S(0)) is an important intermediate of the sulfur cycle and is generated by chemical and biological sulfide oxidation. Raman spectromicroscopy can be applied to environmental samples for the detection of S(0), as a practical non-destructive micron-scale method for use on wet material and living cells. Technical advances in filter materials enable the acquisition of ultra-low frequency (ULF) Raman measurements in the 10–100 cm−1 range using a single-stage spectrometer. Here we demonstrate the potency of ULF Raman spectromicroscopy to harness the external vibrational modes of previously unrecognized S(0) structures present in environmental samples. We investigate the chemical and structural nature of intracellular S(0) granules stored within environmental mats of sulfur-oxidizing γ-Proteobacteria (Thiothrix). In vivo intracellular ULF scans indicate the presence of amorphous cyclooctasulfur (S8), clarifying enduring uncertainties regarding the content of microbial sulfur storage globules. Raman scattering of extracellular sulfur clusters in Thiothrix mats furthermore reveals an unexpected abundance of metastable β-S8 and γ-S8, in addition to the stable α-S8 allotrope. We propose ULF Raman spectroscopy as a powerful method for the micron-scale determination of S(0) structure in natural and laboratory systems, with a promising potential to shine new light on environmental microbial and chemical sulfur cycling mechanisms.
Breast-lesions characterization using Quantitative Ultrasound features of peritumoral tissue
Authors: Klimonda Ziemowit , Karwat Piotr , Dobruch-Sobczak Katarzyna , Piotrzkowska-Wróblewska Hanna , Litniewski Jerzy
Published: May 2019

The presented studies evaluate for the first time the efficiency of tumour classification based on the quantitative analysis of ultrasound data originating from the tissue surrounding the tumour. 116 patients took part in the study after qualifying for biopsy due to suspicious breast changes. The RF signals collected from the tumour and tumour-surroundings were processed to determine quantitative measures consisting of Nakagami distribution shape parameter, entropy, and texture parameters. The utility of parameters for the classification of benign and malignant lesions was assessed in relation to the results of histopathology. The best multi-parametric classifier reached an AUC of 0.92 and of 0.83 for outer and intra-tumour data, respectively. A classifier composed of two types of parameters, parameters based on signals scattered in the tumour and in the surrounding tissue, allowed the classification of breast changes with sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 88%, and AUC of 0.94. Among the 4095 multi-parameter classifiers tested, only in eight cases the result of classification based on data from the surrounding tumour tissue was worse than when using tumour data. The presented results indicate the high usefulness of QUS analysis of echoes from the tissue surrounding the tumour in the classification of breast lesions.
Long-Term Aspirin Administration Has No Effect on Erectile Function: Evidence from Adult Rats and Ageing Rat Model
Authors: Li Tao , Wu Changjing , Fu Fudong , Xiong Wenfeng , Qin Feng , Yuan Jiuhong
Published: May 2019

As the broad spectrum pharmacological action, aspirin has been one of the most widely used medicines since its initial synthesis; however, the association between aspirin and erectile function is still controversial. We aim to explore whether long-term aspirin administration deteriorates or preserves erectile function from adult rats and ageing rat model. Twenty adult rats (10 weeks of age) and twenty ageing rats (80 weeks of age) were randomly divided into four groups as follows: Adult-Control (normal saline [NS]), Adult-Aspirin (aspirin, 10 mg/kg/d), Ageing-Control (NS), and Ageing-Aspirin (aspirin, 10 mg/kg/d) groups (n = 10 per group). For all rats, erectile function was assessed by maximum intracavernous pressure (ICP), total area under ICP curve (AUC), ICP/mean arterial pressure (MAP) ratio, and MAP. The total treatment duration was one month. Protein expression levels of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), COX-2, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and nNOS of the corpus cavernosum were detected by Western blot. ELISA kits were used to determine 6-keto PGF1a, PGE2, TXB2, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels. Total nitric oxide (NO) concentration was measured using a fluorometric assay kit. As a result, Ageing-Control rats revealed significantly decreased ICP, AUC, and ICP/MAP ratios compared to Adult-Control rats, and these effects were accompanied by reduced eNOS protein expression and lower total NO and cGMP levels; however, no difference was found in nNOS protein expression. For adult rat groups, aspirin significantly inhibited the production of 6-keto PGF1a, PGE2, and TXB2; however, it neither changed the ICP, AUC, or ICP/ MAP ratios nor altered the protein expression of eNOS, nNOS, COX-1, and COX-2. Meanwhile, aspirin did not influence the concentrations of total NO, cAMP, or cGMP. The same tendency was also found in the ageing rat model, which confirmed that aspirin did not alter erectile function. Our data suggested that long-term aspirin administration did not strengthen or weaken erectile function in adult rats or ageing rat model. Thus, it had no impact on erectile function.