bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is problematic exercise really problematic? A dimensional approach
Authors: Chamberlain Samuel R. , Grant Jon E.
Published: March 2019

Objective:

Though moderate exercise has numerous health benefits, some individuals may become excessively preoccupied with exercise, endorsing features akin to “addiction.” The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationships between problematic exercise (viewed dimensionally), quality of life, and psychological measures.

Methods:

Young adults were recruited from an established population-based cohort in the United Kingdom and completed an online survey. The factor structure of the Exercise Addiction Inventory (EAI) was characterized. Relationships between dimensional EAI factor scores and other variables (impulsivity, compulsivity, emotional dysregulation) were elicited.

Results:

Six hundred and forty-two individuals took part in the study (mean age 23.4 years, 64.7% female). The EAI yielded two factors – a “general factor” and a “relationship conflict factor.” Both EAI factor scores were associated with disordered eating, impulsivity (UPPS), and compulsivity (CHI-T). Only the relationship conflict factor score was significantly associated with impaired quality of life (all domains) and with maladaptive personality traits (emotional dysregulation and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder traits). Few participants met conventional threshold for full exercise addiction (1.1%).

Conclusion:

Higher problematic exercise scores, in a sample largely free from exercise addiction, were associated with impulsive and compulsive personality features, emotional dysregulation, and disordered eating. Further research is needed to examine whether these results generalize to other populations (such as gym attendees) and are evident using more rigorous in-person clinical assessment rather than online assessment. Longitudinal research is needed to examine both positive and negative impacts of exercise, since moderate exercise may, in fact, be useful for those with impulsive/compulsive tendencies, by dampening negative emotional states or substituting for other more damaging types of repetitive habit.
Estimating word-level quality of statistical machine translation output using monolingual information alone
Authors: Tezcan Arda , Hoste Véronique , Macken Lieve
Published: March 2019

Various studies show that statistical machine translation (SMT) systems suffer from fluency errors, especially in the form of grammatical errors and errors related to idiomatic word choices. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness of using monolingual information contained in the machine-translated text to estimate word-level quality of SMT output. We propose a recurrent neural network architecture which uses morpho-syntactic features and word embeddings as word representations within surface and syntactic n-grams. We test the proposed method on two language pairs and for two tasks, namely detecting fluency errors and predicting overall post-editing effort. Our results show that this method is effective for capturing all types of fluency errors at once. Moreover, on the task of predicting post-editing effort, while solely relying on monolingual information, it achieves on-par results with the state-of-the-art quality estimation systems which use both bilingual and monolingual information.
Virtual reality-based cognitive behavioural therapy for patients with generalized social anxiety disorder: a pilot study
Authors: Geraets Chris N.W. , Veling Wim , Witlox Maartje , Staring Anton B.P. , Matthijssen Suzy J.M.A. , Cath Danielle
Published: March 2019

Background:

Patients with generalized social anxiety disorder (SAD) avoid various social situations and can be reluctant to engage in in vivo exposure therapy. Highly personalized practising can be required before patients are ready to perform in vivo exposure. Virtual reality-based therapy could be beneficial for this group.

Aims:

To assess the feasibility and potential effect of virtual reality-based cognitive behavioural therapy (VR-CBT) for patients with severe generalized SAD.

Methods:

Fifteen patients with generalized SAD attended up to 16 VR-CBT sessions. Questionnaires on clinical and functional outcomes, and diary assessments on social activity, social anxiety and paranoia were completed at baseline, post-treatment and at 6-months follow-up.

Results:

Two patients dropped out of treatment. Improvements in social anxiety and quality of life were found at post-treatment. At follow-up, depressive symptoms had decreased, and the effect on social anxiety was maintained. With respect to diary assessments, social anxiety in company and paranoia were significantly reduced by post-treatment. These improvements were maintained at follow-up. No increase was observed in social activity.

Conclusions:

This uncontrolled pilot study demonstrates the feasibility and treatment potential of VR-CBT in a difficult-to-treat group of patients with generalized SAD. Results suggest that VR-CBT may be effective in reducing anxiety as well as depression, and can increase quality of life.
Decolonising Museums: South-Asian Perspectives
Authors: GAMBERI VALENTINA
Published: March 2019

This study adopts an osmotic ethnography in order to decolonise the museum as an intellectual institution that was born in the West and informed by a logic of command (arkheion). As in the biological process of osmosis, characterised by an equilibrium between the inner and the outer that shapes its own distinctiveness through its symbiosis, the museum constitutes itself as a space intertwined with external reality. This is particularly true in the case of South Asian museum artefacts: because of the concept ofdarśan(the sensuous relationship between the worshipper and the deity's material embodiment) curators have faced the challenge of coming to terms with visitors’ responses, from colonial to post-colonial times. A direct consequence of this challenge is represented by the reconstructions of religious spaces—shrines, altars, temples—that should evoke the so-called “original context” and be in consonance with local forms of material engagement.

By adopting eco-phenomenology as its methodological framework, this article examines colonial sources, in particular the works of Thomas Hendley (1847–1917) and Fanny Parks (1794–1875), and compares them to the ethnographic fieldwork undertaken by the author at the Oriental Museum of the University of Durham in November 2014, as part of doctoral research.
Purchasing patterns in low-income neighbourhoods: implications for studying sugar-sweetened beverage taxes
Authors: Madsen Kristine A , Falbe Jennifer , Olgin Gabriella , Ibarra-Castro Ana , Rojas Nadia
Published: March 2019

Objective

The present study aimed to determine the store types from which people in low-income neighbourhoods purchase most sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) and to identify associations between purchasing location and demographic characteristics.

Design

Street-intercept surveys of passers-by near high foot-traffic intersections in 2016. Participants completed a beverage frequency questionnaire and identified the type of store (e.g. corner store, chain grocery) from which they purchased most SSB.

Setting

Eight low-income neighbourhoods in four Bay Area cities, California, USA.

Participants

Sample of 1132 individuals who reported consuming SSB, aged 18–88 years, who identified as African-American (41 %), Latino (29 %), White (17 %) and Asian (6 %).

Results

Based on surveys in low-income neighbourhoods, corner stores were the primary source from which most SSB were purchased (28 %), followed by discount stores (18 %) and chain groceries (16 %). In fully adjusted models, those with lower education were more likely to purchase from corner stores or discount groceries than all other store types. Compared with White participants, African-Americans purchased more frequently from corner stores, discount groceries and chain groceries while Latinos purchased more frequently from discount groceries.

Conclusions

The wide range of store types from which SSB were purchased and demographic differences in purchasing patterns suggest that broader methodological approaches are needed to adequately capture the impact of SSB taxes and other interventions aimed at reducing SSB consumption, particularly in low-income neighbourhoods.
Reflector Selection for the Indexing of Electron Backscatter Diffraction Patterns
Authors: Wright Stuart I. , Singh Saransh , De Graef Marc
Published: March 2019

We propose a new methodology for ranking the reflectors used in traditional Hough-based indexing of electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) patterns. Instead of kinematic X-ray or electron structure factors (Fhkl) currently utilized, we propose the integrated Kikuchi band intensity parameter (βhkl) based on integrated dynamical electron backscatter intensities. The proposed parameter is compared with the traditional kinematical intensity, $I_{hkl}^{{\rm kin}} $, as well as the average Hough transform peak intensity, $I_{hkl}^{{\rm HSP}} $ and used to index EBSD patterns for a number of different material systems of varying unit cell complexities including nickel, silicon, rutile, and forsterite. For elemental structures, βhkl closely follows the kinematical ranking. However, significant ranking differences arise for more complex unit cells, with the βhkl parameter showing a better correlation with the integrated Hough intensities. Finally, Hough-based indexing of a simulated forsterite data set showed an appreciable improvement in the median confidence index (0.15 to 0.35) when βhkl is used instead of $I_{hkl}^{{\rm kin}} $ for ranking the reflectors.
Malpractice litigation, workload, and general practitioner retirement
Authors: Birkeland Søren , Bogh Søren Bie
Published: March 2019

We investigated the association between general practitioner (GP) stress factors, including involvement in malpractice litigation or high workload levels during 2007 and ensuing retirement in a sample of Danish GPs. The case file and register information of 739 GPs were examined. Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated for all causes of retirement from 2007 to 2016. During the study period, 34% of GPs had ceased to practice (n= 260). The HR for retirement was higher with increasing age (HR = 1.19 per year) and lower if practicing in a clinic with a greater number of GPs (HR = 0.47) but no statistically significant association was found between retirement and litigation or higher workload. Knowledge on factors influencing GPs’ decision on whether to continue working is important to ensure sustainable primary care provision.
The Workings ofCalidad:Honor, Governance, and Social Hierarchies in the Corporations of the Spanish Empire
Authors: Delgadillo Núñez Jorge E.
Published: March 2019

In her study on the configuration of difference in colonial New Granada, Joanne Rappaport contends that many studies “tend to ignore how different practices of distinguishing one individual from another came into play in concrete situations,” and as a result they “end up labeling as ‘race’ something that was much more multifaceted.” Subsequently, she urges scholars to interpret colonial subjects and their identities on their own terms. This study responds to Rappaport's call by analyzing the workings of the historical concept ofcalidadin colonial Spanish America.
On the Relative Strength of Electric and Magnetic ULF Wave Radial Diffusion During the March 2015 Geomagnetic Storm
Authors: Olifer L. , Mann I. R. , Ozeke L. G. , Rae I. J. , Morley S. K.
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we study electron radial diffusion coefficients derived from Pc4‐Pc5 ultralow frequency (ULF) wave power during the intense geomagnetic storm on 17–18 March 2015. During this storm the population of highly relativistic electrons was depleted within 2 hr of the storm commencement. This radial diffusion, depending upon the availability of source populations, can cause outward radial diffusion of particles and their loss to the magnetosheath, or inward transport and acceleration. Analysis of electromagnetic field measurements from Geostationary Operational Environment Satellite (GOES), Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) satellite, and ground‐based magnetometers shows that the main phase storm‐specific radial diffusion coefficients do not correspond to statistical estimates. Specifically, during the main phase, the electric diffusion (
) is reduced, and the magnetic diffusion (
) is increased, compared to empirical models based on Kp. Contrary to prior results, the main phase magnetic radial diffusion cannot be neglected. The largest discrepancies, and periods of dominance of
over
, occur during intervals of strongly southward IMF. However, during storm recovery, both magnetic and electric diffusion rates are consistent with empirical estimates. We further verify observationally, for the first time, an energy coherence for both
and
where diffusion coefficients do not depend on energy. We show that, at least for this storm, properly characterizing main phase radial diffusion, potentially associated with enhanced ULF wave magnetopause shadowing losses, cannot be done with standard empirical models. Modifications, associated especially with southward IMF, which enhance the effects of
and introduce larger main phase outward transport losses, are needed.
Long noncoding RNAs: a missing link in osteoporosis
Authors: Silva Andreia Machado , Moura Sara Reis , Teixeira José Henrique , Barbosa Mário Adolfo , Santos Susana Gomes , Almeida Maria Inês
Published: March 2019

Osteoporosis is a systemic disease that results in loss of bone density and increased fracture risk, particularly in the vertebrae and the hip. This condition and associated morbidity and mortality increase with population ageing. Long noncoding (lnc) RNAs are transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides that are not translated into proteins, but play important regulatory roles in transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation. Their contribution to disease onset and development is increasingly recognized. Herein, we present an integrative revision on the studies that implicate lncRNAs in osteoporosis and that support their potential use as therapeutic tools. Firstly, current evidence on lncRNAs involvement in cellular and molecular mechanisms linked to osteoporosis and its major complication, fragility fractures, is reviewed. We analyze evidence of their roles in osteogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, and bone fracture healing events from human and animal model studies. Secondly, the potential of lncRNAs alterations at genetic and transcriptomic level are discussed as osteoporosis risk factors and as new circulating biomarkers for diagnosis. Finally, we conclude debating the possibilities, persisting difficulties, and future prospects of using lncRNAs in the treatment of osteoporosis.
Associations of non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides and the total cholesterol/HDL-c ratio with arterial stiffness independent of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in a Chinese population
Authors: Wen Jia , Huang Yun , Lu Yao , Yuan Hong
Published: March 2019

Several lipid parameters are closely associated with residual cardiovascular risk. We aimed to confirm that in a range of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) levels (from <70 mg/dl to ≥160 mg/dl), other lipid parameters, such as triglyceride (TG) level, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-c) level, and the total cholesterol (TC)/HDL-c ratio, are still related to arterial stiffness, which is a recognized marker of atherosclerosis. In this cross-sectional study, we measured brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), as well as clinical and biochemical indices in 16,733 Chinese adult volunteers who underwent health check-ups from January 2014 to January 2015. Arterial stiffness was defined as the upper quartile of baPWV. We applied multivariable logistic regression models to examine the associations between lipid parameters and arterial stiffness. Both men and women with high baPWV were more likely to have an atherogenic lipid phenotype. Among participants with LDL-c <70 mg/dl, participants with non-HDL-c ≥100 mg/dl had a multivariable adjusted OR for arterial stiffness of 1.66 (1.11–2.50) compared to those with non-HDL-c <100 mg/dl; participants with TG ≥150 mg/dl had an OR of 2.44 (1.61–3.71) compared to those with TG <150 mg/dl; and participants with a TC/HDL-c ratio ≥4 had an OR of 1.74 (1.15–2.65) compared to those with a TC/HDL-c ratio <4. Similar results were observed at other LDL-c levels. We found that non-HDL-c, TG, and the TC/HDL-c ratio were consistently associated with arterial stiffness in a range of LDL-c levels, even when LDL-c was below 70 mg/dl. These lipid measures are related to residual cardiovascular risk, possibly due to their detrimental effects on vascular structure.
FBXW2 suppresses migration and invasion of lung cancer cells via promoting β-catenin ubiquitylation and degradation
Authors: Yang Fei , Xu Jie , Li Hua , Tan Mingjia , Xiong Xiufang , Sun Yi
Published: March 2019

FBXW2 inhibits proliferation of lung cancer cells by targeting SKP2 for degradation. Whether and how FBXW2 regulates tumor invasion and metastasis is previously unknown. Here, we report that FBXW2 is an E3 ligase for β-catenin. FBXW2 binds to β-catenin upon EGF-AKT1-mediated phosphorylation on Ser552, and promotes its ubiquitylation and degradation. FBXW2 overexpression reduces β-catenin levels and protein half-life, whereas FBXW2 knockdown increases β-catenin levels, protein half-life and transcriptional activity. Functionally, FBXW2 overexpression inhibits migration and invasion by blocking transactivation of MMPs driven by β-catenin, whereas FXBW2 knockdown promotes migration, invasion and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo lung cancer models. In human lung cancer specimens, while FBXW2 levels are inversely correlated with β-catenin levels and lymph-node metastasis, lower FBXW2 coupled with higher β-catenin, predict a worse patient survival. Collectively, our study demonstrates that FBXW2 inhibits tumor migration, invasion and metastasis in lung cancer cells by targeting β-catenin for degradation.
Diagnosis of fusion genes using targeted RNA sequencing
Authors: Heyer Erin E. , Deveson Ira W. , Wooi Danson , Selinger Christina I. , Lyons Ruth J. , Hayes Vanessa M. , O’Toole Sandra A. , Ballinger Mandy L. , Gill Devinder , Thomas David M. , Mercer Tim R. , Blackburn James
Published: March 2019

Fusion genes are a major cause of cancer. Their rapid and accurate diagnosis can inform clinical action, but current molecular diagnostic assays are restricted in resolution and throughput. Here, we show that targeted RNA sequencing (RNAseq) can overcome these limitations. First, we establish that fusion gene detection with targeted RNAseq is both sensitive and quantitative by optimising laboratory and bioinformatic variables using spike-in standards and cell lines. Next, we analyse a clinical patient cohort and improve the overall fusion gene diagnostic rate from 63% with conventional approaches to 76% with targeted RNAseq while demonstrating high concordance for patient samples with previous diagnoses. Finally, we show that targeted RNAseq offers additional advantages by simultaneously measuring gene expression levels and profiling the immune-receptor repertoire. We anticipate that targeted RNAseq will improve clinical fusion gene detection, and its increasing use will provide a deeper understanding of fusion gene biology.
Direct conversion of CO and H2O into liquid fuels under mild conditions
Authors: Xu Yao , Li Jing , Li Wenjing , Li Weizhen , Zhang Xiaochen , Zhao Yue , Xie Jinglin , Wang Xiaoping , Liu Xi , Li Yongwang , Xiao Dequan , Yin Zhen , Cao Yong , Ma Ding
Published: March 2019

Although enormous progress has been made in C1 chemistry and CO2 conversion in recent years, it is still a challenge to develop new carbon resource transformation protocols especially those lead to the production of liquid fuels with high selectivity under mild conditions (e.g., under low temperature and using benign solvent). Herein, we present a novel and energy-efficient catalytic route to directly transform CO and H2O to liquid fuels (i.e., liquid hydrocarbons) at low temperature (≤200 °C) in aqueous phase (i.e., in a benign solvent), in which H2O served as both hydrogen source and solvent for the liquid fuel production. The key to the catalytic process is the construction of a highly efficient tandem catalyst Pt-Mo2C/C + Ru/C, which can directly convert CO and H2O in aqueous phase to liquid hydrocarbons with a production rate of 8.7 mol-CH2- molRu−1 h−1 and selectivity up to 68.4% of C5+ hydrocarbons at 200 °C.
The Parkinson’s phenome—traits associated with Parkinson’s disease in a broadly phenotyped cohort
Authors: Heilbron Karl , Noyce Alastair J. , Fontanillas Pierre , Alipanahi Babak , Nalls Mike A. ,   The 23andMe Research Team, Agee M. , Auton A. , Bell R. K. , Bryc K. , Elson S. L. , Furlotte N. A. , Hinds D. A. , McCreight J. C. , Huber K. E. , Kleinman A. , Litterman N. K. , McIntyre M. H. , Mountain J. L. , Noblin E. S. , Northover C. A. M. , Pitts S. J. , Sathirapongsasuti J. F. , Sazonova O. V. , Shelton J. F. , Shringarpure S. , Tian C. , Tung J. Y. , Vacic V. , Wilson C. H. , Cannon Paul
Published: March 2019

In order to systematically describe the Parkinson’s disease phenome, we performed a series of 832 cross-sectional case-control analyses in a large database. Responses to 832 online survey-based phenotypes including diseases, medications, and environmental exposures were analyzed in 23andMe research participants. For each phenotype, survey respondents were used to construct a cohort of Parkinson’s disease cases and age-matched and sex-matched controls, and an association test was performed using logistic regression. Cohorts included a median of 3899 Parkinson’s disease cases and 49,808 controls, all of European ancestry. Highly correlated phenotypes were removed and the novelty of each significant association was systematically assessed (assigned to one of four categories: known, likely, unclear, or novel). Parkinson’s disease diagnosis was associated with 122 phenotypes. We replicated 27 known associations and found 23 associations with a strong a priori link to a known association. We discovered 42 associations that have not previously been reported. Migraine, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and seasonal allergies were associated with Parkinson’s disease and tend to occur decades before the typical age of diagnosis for Parkinson’s disease. The phenotypes that currently comprise the Parkinson’s disease phenome have mostly been explored in relatively small purpose-built studies. Using a single large dataset, we have successfully reproduced many of these established associations and have extended the Parkinson’s disease phenome by discovering novel associations. Our work paves the way for studies of these associated phenotypes that explore shared molecular mechanisms with Parkinson’s disease, infer causal relationships, and improve our ability to identify individuals at high-risk of Parkinson’s disease.
Genome sequence and transcriptomic profiles of a marine bacterium, Pseudoalteromonas agarivorans Hao 2018
Authors: Shan Kai , Wang Chunlei , Liu Wenlin , Liu Kai , Jia Baolei , Hao Lujiang
Published: March 2019

Members of the marine genus Pseudoalteromonas have attracted great interest because of their ability to produce a large number of biologically active substances. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of Pseudoalteromonas agarivorans Hao 2018, a strain isolated from an abalone breeding environment, using second-generation Illumina and third-generation PacBio sequencing technologies. Illumina sequencing offers high quality and short reads, while PacBio technology generates long reads. The scaffolds of the two platforms were assembled to yield a complete genome sequence that included two circular chromosomes and one circular plasmid. Transcriptomic data for Pseudoalteromonas were not available. We therefore collected comprehensive RNA-seq data using Illumina sequencing technology from a fermentation culture of P. agarivorans Hao 2018. Researchers studying the evolution, environmental adaptations and biotechnological applications of Pseudoalteromonas may benefit from our genomic and transcriptomic data to analyze the function and expression of genes of interest.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of long noncoding and circular RNAs in germline stem cells
Authors: Li Xiaoyong , Tian Geng G. , Zhao Yongqiang , Wu Ji
Published: March 2019

Germline stem cells are germ cells at an early developmental stage, so their development is key to ensuring human reproduction. There is increasing evidence that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA) play important roles in the development of germ cells. This data descriptor provides unique lncRNA and circRNA transcriptomic information for mouse germline stem cells. Using the Illumina HiSeqx 2000 system, a total of 511,836,732 raw reads were generated. High-quality transcripts, lncRNAs, and circRNAs were identificated and quantified using the reads, and more precise annotations of lncRNAs (especially 9357 novel lncRNAs) and circRNAs were performed in the germline stem cells. We then analyzed the transcript structures, genetic variants, and the interaction between circRNA and microRNA to provide the basis for subsequent functional experiments. This comprehensive dataset will help advance data sharing and deepen our understanding of mouse germline stem cells, providing a theoretical foundation for research on germ cell development and human reproduction, among others.
Rigorous monitoring of a large-scale marine stock enhancement program demonstrates the need for comprehensive management of fisheries and nursery habitat
Authors: Kitada Shuichi , Nakajima Kaori , Hamasaki Katsuyuki , Shishidou Hirotoshi , Waples Robin S. , Kishino Hirohisa
Published: March 2019

Release of captively-bred individuals into the wild is one of the most popular tools in fisheries, forestry, and wildlife management, and introgression of hatchery-reared animals into wild populations is of global concern. However, research and monitoring of impacts on wild populations are generally lacking, and the benefit of hatcheries for long-term fisheries and conservation goals is unclear. Using spatio-temporal genetic monitoring and a four-dacade time series of catch data, we quantified the effects on the size and genetic diversity of wild populations of one of the world’s largest marine stock enhancement programs–the red sea bream (Pagrus major) in Kagoshima Bay, Japan. Our analyses found that the stock enhancement program reduced genetic diversity of the population, but the genetic effect diminished with increased size of the wild population. Increases to the seaweed communities and reduced fishing efforts were the primary factors associated with the wild population recovery; effects of aquaculture were much smaller. Our results represent crucial evidence that hatcheries for enhancement and conservation of populations cannot be successful over the long term unless sufficient efforts are also made to reduce harvest rates and rehabilitate natural habitats.
Tumor Ensemble-Based Modeling and Visualization of Emergent Angiogenic Heterogeneity in Breast Cancer
Authors: Stamatelos Spyros K. , Bhargava Akanksha , Kim Eugene , Popel Aleksander S. , Pathak Arvind P.
Published: March 2019

There is a critical need for new tools to investigate the spatio-temporal heterogeneity and phenotypic alterations that arise in the tumor microenvironment. However, computational investigations of emergent inter- and intra-tumor angiogenic heterogeneity necessitate 3D microvascular data from ‘whole-tumors’ as well as “ensembles” of tumors. Until recently, technical limitations such as 3D imaging capabilities, computational power and cost precluded the incorporation of whole-tumor microvascular data in computational models. Here, we describe a novel computational approach based on multimodality, 3D whole-tumor imaging data acquired from eight orthotopic breast tumor xenografts (i.e. a tumor ‘ensemble’). We assessed the heterogeneous angiogenic landscape from the microvascular to tumor ensemble scale in terms of vascular morphology, emergent hemodynamics and intravascular oxygenation. We demonstrate how the abnormal organization and hemodynamics of the tumor microvasculature give rise to unique microvascular niches within the tumor and contribute to inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity. These tumor ensemble-based simulations together with unique data visualization approaches establish the foundation of a novel ‘cancer atlas’ for investigators to develop their own in silico systems biology applications. We expect this hybrid image-based modeling framework to be adaptable for the study of other tissues (e.g. brain, heart) and other vasculature-dependent diseases (e.g. stroke, myocardial infarction).
Copper(II) complexes as potential anticancer and Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents: In vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Hussain Afzal , AlAjmi Mohamed Fahad , Rehman Md. Tabish , Amir Samira , Husain Fohad Mabood , Alsalme Ali , Siddiqui Maqsood Ahmad , AlKhedhairy Abdulaziz A. , Khan Rais Ahmad
Published: March 2019

Copper-based compounds are promising entities for target-specific next-generation anticancer and NSAIDS therapeutics.In lieuof this, benzimidazole scaffold plays an important role, because of their wide variety of potential functionalizations and coordination modes. Herein, we report three copper complexes1–3with benzimidazole-derived scaffolds, a biocompatible molecule, and secondary ligands viz, 1–10-phenanthroline and 2,2′-bipyridyl. All the copper complexes have been designed, synthesized and adequately characterized using various spectroscopic techniques.In-vitro, human serum albumin (HSA) binding was also carried out using fluorescence technique andin-silicomolecular modeling studies, which exhibited significant binding affinities of the complexes with HSA. Furthermore, copper complexes1–3were tested for biological studies, i.e., anticancer as well as NSAIDS.In vitrocytotoxicity results were carried out on cultured MCF-7 cell lines. To get the insight over the mechanism of action, GSH depletion and change in lipid peroxidation were tested and thus confirmed the role of ROS generation, responsible for the cytotoxicity of the complexes1–3. Moreover, the copper complexes1–3were tested for potential to act as NSAIDS on albino rats and mice in animal studiesin-vivo. Additionally, we also predicted the mechanism of action of the copper complexes1–3using molecular modeling studies with COX-2 inhibitor.
Effects and possible mechanism of Ruyiping formula application to breast cancer based on network prediction
Authors: Xie Rui-Fang , Liu Sheng , Yang Ming , Xu Jia-Qi , Li Zhi-Cheng , Zhou Xin
Published: March 2019

Ruyiping (RYP), a Chinese herbal formula, can remove toxin and clear nodular, showing ability of preventing postoperative recurrence of breast cancer. In this study, network was performed to predict possible targets, genes and pathways associated with RYP and breast cancer. Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were used to quantitatively study RYP formula and its single herbs. MTT methods, Luciferase reporter systems, zebrafish model and western blotting were respectively adopted to verify network prediction. Results showed that the quality of RYP could be controlled and icariin could be selected as mark ingredient; RYP expressed anti-breast tumor effects, which could be associated with inhibiting expression of Transforming Growth Factor β (TGFβ), promoting cells apoptosis and anti-angiogenesis. Parts of these results were consistent with network predictions in some degree, but not all. Network can help us narrow areas, focus on crucial factors, save money as well as time, but the results predicted by network should be confirmed by further experiments.
Carbon and nitrogen partitioning of transgenic rice T2A-1 (Cry2A*) with different nitrogen treatments
Authors: Ling Lin , Li Xuexue , Wang Kangxu , Cai Mingli , Jiang Yang , Cao Cougui
Published: March 2019

Nitrogen (N) and carbon(C) metabolisms in plants were investigated to assess different responses of Bt and non-Bt rice to different N treatments. T2A-1 (Bt rice variety) inserted with Cry2A* protein to resist Lepidoptera and its parental line MH63 was adopted in this study. The total N accumulation presented no statistical difference. But nitrogen contents in different parts of rice plant were significantly different between the two lines, especially on leaf and spike part. This study revealed that the nitrogen in leaf of T2A-1 was far more than that of MH63; however, the nitrogen in spike of T2A-1 was less than that of MH63. In addition, MH63 assimilated more carbon than T2A-1. However, the distribution proportion of carbon in leaf, stem and spike of T2A-1 and MH63 were both 1:1:1. What’s more, our study of the difference in metabolism pathway based on proteomics analysis provided more insights on the responses of two lines of Bt and non-Bt rice to different N treatments. And amino acid metabolism, energy metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism presented significant difference between two lines. In addition, the number of differentially expressed proteins with N deficiency treatment was almost twice as many as that with normal N treatment. It could be inferred that the insertion of Cry2A* in T2A-1 may bring about effects on carbon and nitrogen allocation and related metabolisms, especially under N deficiency environment.
Potential of fungi isolated from the dumping sites mangrove rhizosphere soil to degrade polythene
Authors: Sangale Manisha K. , Shahnawaz Mohd. , Ade Avinash B.
Published: March 2019

Polythene is the most widely used plastic around the globe. Among the total plastic waste generated, polythene contributes the maximum share (64%). Various strategies/methods are being utilized to deal with the increasing rate of plastic waste, but among all the methods, bioremediation is regarded as the ecofriendly and widely accepted method. In the current investigation, we have attempted to discover the elite polythene deteriorating fungi (isolated from the rhizosphere soil ofAvicennia marina). From 12 different eco-geographical locations along the West Coast of India, total 109 fungal isolates were recorded. The polythene deteriorating fungi were screened at varied pH (3.5, 7 and 9.5) based on changes in weight and tensile strength of the treated polythene at ambient temperature with continuous shaking for 60 days. BAYF5 isolate (pH 7) results in maximum reduction in weight (58.51 ± 8.14) whereas PNPF15 (pH 3.5) recorded highest reduction in tensile strength (94.44 ± 2.40). Surprisingly, we have also reported weight gain, with highest percent weight gain (28.41 ± 6.99) with MANGF13 at pH 9.5. To test the reproducibility of the results, the elite polythene degrading fungal isolates based on weight loss and reduction in tensile strength were only used for repetition experiment and the results based on the reduction in tensile strength were found only reproducible. Polythene biodegradation was further confirmed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The most efficient polythene deteriorating fungal isolates were identified asAspergillus terreusstrain MANGF1/WL andAspergillus sydowiistrain PNPF15/TS using both morphological keys and molecular tools.
Pattern separation of spiketrains in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Madar Antoine D. , Ewell Laura A. , Jones Mathew V.
Published: March 2019

Pattern separation is a process that minimizes overlap between patterns of neuronal activity representing similar experiences. Theoretical work suggests that the dentate gyrus (DG) performs this role for memory processing but a direct demonstration is lacking. One limitation is the difficulty to measure DG inputs and outputs simultaneously. To rigorously assess pattern separation by DG circuitry, we used mouse brain slices to stimulate DG afferents and simultaneously record DG granule cells (GCs) and interneurons. Output spiketrains of GCs are more dissimilar than their input spiketrains, demonstrating for the first time temporal pattern separation at the level of single neurons in the DG. Pattern separation is larger in GCs than in fast-spiking interneurons and hilar mossy cells, and is amplified in CA3 pyramidal cells. Analysis of the neural noise and computational modelling suggest that this form of pattern separation is not explained by simple randomness and arises from specific presynaptic dynamics. Overall, by reframing the concept of pattern separation in dynamic terms and by connecting it to the physiology of different types of neurons, our study offers a new window of understanding in how hippocampal networks might support episodic memory.
Heritable Epichloë symbiosis shapes fungal but not bacterial communities of plant leaves
Authors: Nissinen Riitta , Helander Marjo , Kumar Manoj , Saikkonen Kari
Published: March 2019

Keystone microbial species have driven eco-evolutionary processes since the origin of life. However, due to our inability to detect the majority of microbiota, members of diverse microbial communities of fungi, bacteria and viruses have largely been ignored as keystone species in past literature. Here we tested whether heritable Epichloë species of pooidae grasses modulate microbiota of their shared host plant.
Alternative splicing events expand molecular diversity of camel CSN1S2 increasing its ability to generate potentially bioactive peptides
Authors: Ryskaliyeva Alma , Henry Céline , Miranda Guy , Faye Bernard , Konuspayeva Gaukhar , Martin Patrice
Published: March 2019

In a previous study on camel milk from Kazakhstan, we reported the occurrence of two unknown proteins (UP1 and UP2) with different levels of phosphorylation. Here we show that UP1 and UP2 are isoforms of camel αs2-CN (αs2-CNsv1 and αs2-CNsv2, respectively) arising from alternative splicing events. First described as a 178 amino-acids long protein carrying eight phosphate groups, the major camel αs2-CN isoform (called here αs2-CN) has a molecular mass of 21,906 Da. αs2-CNsv1, a rather frequent (35%) isoform displaying a higher molecular mass (+1,033 Da), is present at four phosphorylation levels (8P to 11P). Using cDNA-sequencing, αs2-CNsv1 was shown to be a variant arising from the splicing-in of an in-frame 27-nucleotide sequence encoding the nonapeptide ENSKKTVDM, for which the presence at the genome level was confirmed. αs2-CNsv2, which appeared to be present at 8P to 12P, was shown to include an additional decapeptide (VKAYQIIPNL) revealed by LC-MS/MS, encoded by a 3′-extension of exon 16. Since milk proteins represent a reservoir of biologically active peptides, the molecular diversity generated by differential splicing might increase its content. To evaluate this possibility, we searched for bioactive peptides encrypted in the different camel αs2-CN isoforms, using an in silico approach. Several peptides, putatively released from the C-terminal part of camel αs2-CN isoforms after in silico digestion by proteases from the digestive tract, were predicted to display anti-bacterial and antihypertensive activities.
Target detection increases pupil diameter and enhances memory for background scenes during multi-tasking
Authors: Swallow Khena M. , Jiang Yuhong V. , Riley Elizabeth B.
Published: March 2019

Attending to targets in a detection task can facilitate memory for concurrently presented information, a phenomenon known as the attentional boost effect. One account of the attentional boost suggests that it reflects the temporal selection of behaviorally relevant moments, broadly facilitating the processing of information encountered at these times. Because pupil diameter increases when orienting to behaviorally relevant events and is positively correlated with increases in gain and activity in the locus coeruleus (a purported neurophysiological mechanism for temporal selection), we tested whether the attentional boost effect is accompanied by an increase in pupil diameter. Participants memorized a series of individually presented scenes. Whenever a scene appeared, a high or low pitched tone was played, and participants counted (and later reported) the number of tones in the pre-specified, target pitch. Target detection enhanced later memory for concurrently presented scenes. It was accompanied by a larger pupil response than was distractor rejection, and this effect was more pronounced for subsequently remembered rather than forgotten scenes. Thus, conditions that produce the attentional boost effect may also elicit phasic changes in neural gain and locus coeruleus activity.
Morphologic, molecular and metabolic characterization of Aspergillus section Flavi in spices marketed in Lebanon
Authors: Makhlouf Joya , Carvajal-Campos Amaranta , Querin Arlette , Tadrist Soraya , Puel Olivier , Lorber Sophie , Oswald Isabelle P. , Hamze Monzer , Bailly Jean-Denis , Bailly Sylviane
Published: March 2019

Spices are used extensively in Lebanon not only to flavour foods but also for their medicinal properties. To date, no data are available regarding the nature of the toxigenic fungal species that may contaminate these products at the marketing stage in this country. Eighty samples corresponding to 14 different types of spices were collected throughout Lebanon to characterize the Aspergillus section Flavi contaminating spices marketed in Lebanon and the toxigenic potential of these fungal species. Most fungal genera and species were identified as belonging to Aspergillus section Flavi. Aspergillus flavus was the most frequent species, representing almost 80% of the isolates. Although identified as A. flavus by molecular analysis, some strains displayed atypical morphological features. Seven strains of A. tamarii and one A. minisclerotigenes were also isolated. Analyses of toxigenic potential demonstrated that almost 80% of strains were able to produce mycotoxins, 47% produced aflatoxins, and 72% produced cyclopiazonic acid, alone or in combination with aflatoxins.
Vertical transmission of Zika virus in Culex quinquefasciatus Say and Aedes aegypti (L.) mosquitoes
Authors: Phumee Atchara , Chompoosri Jakkrawarn , Intayot Proawpilart , Boonserm Rungfar , Boonyasuppayakorn Siwaporn , Buathong Rome , Thavara Usavadee , Tawatsin Apiwat , Joyjinda Yutthana , Wacharapluesadee Supaporn , Siriyasatien Padet
Published: March 2019

Several mosquito species have been described as vectors for the Zika virus (ZIKV), such as those in the Aedes, Anopheles, Mansonia and Culex genera. Our previous survey studies were found the ZIKV RNA positive in both male, female and larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus Say and Aedes aegypti (L.) mosquitoes collected from active ZIKV infected patients’ homes in Thailand. Therefore, the aims of this study were to investigate whether ZIKV could be vertically transmitted in Cx. quinquefasciatus, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. Laboratory and field colonies of these mosquito species were maintained and artificially fed with ZIKV in human blood. Fully engorged mosquitoes (F0) were selected and reared for the vertical transmission study. The subsequent mosquito generations were fed with human blood without the virus. ZIKV in the mosquitoes was detected by hemi-nested RT-PCR and sequencing. C6/36 cells were used to isolate ZIKV from samples that tested positive by hemi-nested RT-PCR. Moreover, ZIKV was identified by immunocytochemical staining 7 days after infection in several organs of infected F0 females, including the salivary glands, midguts, yoke granules and facet cells of the eye. The localization of the ZIKV antigen was identified by the presence of the specific antibody in the salivary glands, midguts, yoke granules and facet cells. ZIKV was detected in female and male Cx. quinquefasciatus until the F6 and F2 generations, respectively. The isolated virus showed cytopathic effects in C6/36 cells by 5 days postinfection. The results suggested that the vertical transmission of ZIKV occurs in Cx. quinquefasciatus in the laboratory. However, we were able to detect the presence of ZIKV in Ae. aegypti in only the F1 generation in both male and female mosquitoes, and Ae. albopictus mosquitoes were not able to vertically transmit the virus at all. Data obtained from this study could be valuable for developing a better understanding of the role of Cx. quinquefasciatus as a potential vector for ZIKV transmission in Thailand and may be useful in creating more effective mosquito vector control strategies in the future.
A simple method for determining ligament stiffness during total knee arthroplasty in vivo
Authors: Völlner Florian , Weber Tim , Weber Markus , Renkawitz Tobias , Dendorfer Sebastian , Grifka Joachim , Craiovan Benjamin
Published: March 2019

A key requirement in both native knee joints and total knee arthroplasty is a stable capsular ligament complex. However, knee stability is highly individual and ranges from clinically loose to tight. So far, hardly any in vivo data on the intrinsic mechanical of the knee are available. This study investigated if stiffness of the native ligament complex may be determined in vivo using a standard knee balancer. Measurements were obtained with a commercially available knee balancer, which was initially calibrated in vitro. 5 patients underwent reconstruction of the force-displacement curves of the ligament complex. Stiffness of the medial and lateral compartments were calculated to measure the stability of the capsular ligament complex. All force-displacement curves consisted of a non-linear section at the beginning and of a linear section from about 80 N onwards. The medial compartment showed values of 28.4 ± 1.2 N/mm for minimum stiffness and of 39.9 ± 1.1 N/mm for maximum stiffness; the respective values for the lateral compartment were 19.9 ± 0.9 N/mm and 46.6 ± 0.8 N/mm. A commercially available knee balancer may be calibrated for measuring stiffness of knee ligament complex in vivo, which may contribute to a better understanding of the intrinsic mechanical behaviour of knee joints.
Second-order topological insulators and loop-nodal semimetals in Transition Metal Dichalcogenides XTe2 (X = Mo, W)
Authors: Ezawa Motohiko
Published: March 2019

Transition metal dichalcogenides XTe2 (X = Mo, W) have been shown to be second-order topological insulators based on first-principles calculations, while topological hinge states have been shown to emerge based on the associated tight-binding model. The model is equivalent to the one constructed from a loop-nodal semimetal by adding mass terms and spin-orbit interactions. We propose to study a chiral-symmetric model obtained from the original Hamiltonian by simplifying it but keeping almost identical band structures and topological hinge states. A merit is that we are able to derive various analytic formulas because of chiral symmetry, which enables us to reveal basic topological properties of transition metal dichalcogenides. We find a linked loop structure where a higher linking number (even 8) is realized. We construct second-order topological semimetals and two-dimensional second-order topological insulators based on this model. It is interesting that topological phase transitions occur without gap closing between a topological insulator, a topological crystalline insulator and a second-order topological insulator. We propose to characterize them by symmetry detectors discriminating whether the symmetry is preserved or not. They differentiate topological phases although the symmetry indicators yield identical values to them. We also show that topological hinge states are controllable by the direction of magnetization. When the magnetization points the z direction, the hinges states shift, while they are gapped when it points the in-plane direction. Accordingly, the quantized conductance is switched by controlling the magnetization direction. Our results will be a basis of future topological devices based on transition metal dichalcogenides.