bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mind‐body problem and hippocampus
Authors: Behrendt Ralf‐Peter
Published: August 2017

Commentary on Faw's comprehensive response to a previous commentary (‘Hippocampus as a wormhole’ by Ralf‐Peter Behrendt, doi: 10.1002/wcs.1446) on Faw and Faw's paper (doi: 10.1002/wcs.1412). WIREs Cogn Sci 2017, e1447. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1447.

This article is categorized under:

Philosophy > Consciousness

Neuroscience > Anatomy
Emerging issues in public health: a perspective on Ghana’s healthcare expenditure, policies and outcomes
Authors: Adua Eric , Frimpong Kwasi , Li Xia , Wang Wei
Published: August 2017

Ghana’s healthcare expenditure has increased over the past two decades. Increased healthcare expenditures are required to enhance the acquisition of better hospital resources that may improve healthcare. This study presents an overview of healthcare expenditures and health outcomes (i.e. infant mortality, under-5 mortality and life expectancy) from 1995 to 2014 in Ghana. Infant and under-5 mortalities have declined by 50 and 25%, respectively, as of 2014, while life expectancy has increased from 60.7 to 64.8 years. Private spending on health, especially out-of-pocket payments, declined but is higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended financial threshold. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are rising with healthcare costs leading to catastrophically high healthcare expenditures in the future. While government’s investments on healthcare have yielded positive results, the improvement in the health outcomes cannot be attributed to increased health expenditure alone. Therefore, this paper outlines policies on maternal health, national health insurance and healthcare reforms that have influenced health outcomes. In parallel, the paper highlights challenges of the Ghana health system of which the major ones are (1) inadequate financial investments in health and (2) limited health workforce and facilities. These challenges can be ameliorated by (1) establishing new health institutions and expanding existed ones; (2) providing incentives to discourage the exodus of health workers; (3) introduction of the concept of predictive, preventive and personalized medicine (PPPM) for treating NCDs; and (4) alternative insurance schemes for vulnerable groups. This, coupled with the will of the government to curb misappropriation of funds, will be important to achieving better health outcomes.
Hybridizing sine cosine algorithm with multi-orthogonal search strategy for engineering design problems
Authors: Rizk-Allah Rizk M.
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a new algorithm based on hybridizing the sine cosine algorithm (SCA) with a multi-orthogonal search strategy (MOSS), named multi-orthogonal sine cosine algorithm (MOSCA), for solving engineering design problems. The proposed MOSCA integrates the advantages of the SCA and MOSS to eliminate SCA's disadvantages, like unbalanced exploitation and the trapping in local optima. The proposed MOSCA works in two stages, firstly, the SCA phase starts the search process to enhance exploration capability. Secondly, the MOSS phase starts its search from SCA found so far to boost the exploitation tendencies. In this regard, MOSS phase can assist SCA phase to search based on deeper exploration/exploitation patterns as an alternative. Therefore, the MOSCA can be more robust, statistically sound, and quickly convergent. The performance of the MOSCA algorithm is investigated by applying it on eighteen benchmark problems and four engineering design problems. The experimental results indicate that MOSCA is a promising algorithm and outperforms the other algorithms in most cases.

Highlights MOSCA is presented to solve design and manufacturing optimization problems efficiently. MOSCA is based on two phases namely, sine cosine algorithm (SCA) and multi-orthogonal search strategy (MOSS). The integrated MOSCA enhances exploration tendency and exploitation capability. The MOSCA can be more robust, statistically sound, and quickly convergent. New approach produced successful results compared to the literature studies.
Homophily, echo chambers, & selective exposure in social networks: What should civic educators do?
Authors: Passe Jeff , Drake Corey , Mayger Linda
Published: August 2017

Experts in civic education and social media used the “Delphi Method” to address countering social media's “echo chamber” effect. Analyses revealed relative agreement, with required civics courses emerging as the most recommended solution. The need for well-prepared teachers, a coordinated curriculum, and appropriate materials and methods were major considerations.
Ginseng polysaccharide serves as a potential radiosensitizer through inducing apoptosis and autophagy in the treatment of osteosarcoma
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Yu , Sun Ke , Zhu Qi , Song Tao , Liu Yang
Published: August 2017

Recent studies have confirmed that the combined use of anti‐cancer drugs with ionizing radiation (IR) could improve the sensitivity of osteosarcoma (OS) cells. Therefore, it is necessary to identify potential effective drugs for the enhancement of IR‐radiosensitivity. In the current study, we found that 20, 10, 5, and 1 μM of ginseng polysaccharide (GPS) significantly suppressed MG‐63 cell viability with or without γ‐ray radiation in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Strikingly, 20 μM of GPS combined with 5 Gy treatment suppressed colony formation capacity by nearly 13.75∼fold compared with IR treatment alone. Our results showed that GPS could markedly induce early apoptosis and autophagy in MG‐63 cells. A higher drug concentration and a greater exposure dose were directly associated with more apoptosis and autophagy in cells. Western blot analysis showed that GPS decreased the phosphorylation of p38 and AKT as well as the protein expression of Bax and cleaved‐caspase3. In summary, GPS inhibited proliferation and increased apoptosis and autophagic death in OS cells, indicating that GPS may be a potential effective auxiliary drug for improving the IR sensitivity of OS patients.
Cardiovascular risk factors and hearing loss among adults in a tertiary center of Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Yikawe Stephen Semen , Iseh Kufre Robert , Sabir Anas Ahmad , Inoh Mfon Ime , Solomon Joseph Hassan , Aliyu Nasiru
Published: August 2017

Objective

To assess the effect of cardiovascular risk factors on hearing impairment.

Methods

This was a cross sectional study conducted in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto. A pretested questionnaire was used to obtain information about the biodata and medical history of participants after which, they were examined and had their hearing thresholds measured.

Results

In this study, total of 220 participants were recruited. Within these participants, 112 (55.5%) were females, while 98 (44.5%) were males. The average age of the participants was (45.24 ± 12.21) years. The mean of pure tone average among the participants was (19.15 ± 9.28) dB HL. Thirty‐six (16.4%) of the participants had some degree of hearing loss. Besides, 30 of them (13.6%) had hypertension, while 23 (10.5%) presented with diabetes mellitus. In addition, 43 participants (19.5%) had BMI (body mass index) that was ≥25 kg/m2. Also, 9 out of the 220 participants (4.1%) had a history of cigarette smoking. Our studies indicated that hypertension, diabetes mellitus, BMI of ≥25 kg/m2, and aging were significantly associated with the risk of hearing loss. In contrast, cigarette smoking and sex were not associated with the hearing loss.

Conclusion

This study showed that hypertension, diabetes mellitus, aging, and higher BMI were associated with increase risk of hearing loss.
Linear feedback stabilization of point-vortex equilibria near a Kasper wing
Authors: Nelson R. , Protas B. , Sakajo T.
Published: August 2017

This paper concerns feedback stabilization of point-vortex equilibria above an inclined thin plate and a three-plate configuration known as the Kasper wing in the presence of an oncoming uniform flow. The flow is assumed to be potential and is modelled by the two-dimensional incompressible Euler equations. Actuation has the form of blowing and suction localized on the main plate and is represented in terms of a sink–source singularity, whereas measurement of pressure across the plate serves as system output. We focus on point-vortex equilibria forming a one-parameter family with locus approaching the trailing edge of the main plate and show that these equilibria are either unstable or neutrally stable. Using methods of linear control theory we find that the system dynamics linearized around these equilibria is both controllable and observable for almost all actuator and sensor locations. The design of the feedback control is based on the linear–quadratic–Gaussian (LQG) compensator. Computational results demonstrate the effectiveness of this control and the key finding of this study is that Kasper wing configurations are in general not only more controllable than their single-plate counterparts, but also exhibit larger basins of attraction under LQG feedback control. The feedback control is then applied to systems with additional perturbations added to the flow in the form of random fluctuations of the angle of attack and a vorticity shedding mechanism. Another important observation is that, in the presence of these additional perturbations, the control remains robust, provided the system does not deviate too far from its original state. Furthermore, except in a few isolated cases, introducing a vorticity-shedding mechanism enhanced the effectiveness of the control. Physical interpretation is provided for the results of the controllability and observability analysis as well as the response of the feedback control to different perturbations.
A coupled variational principle for 2D interactions between water waves and a rigid body containing fluid
Authors: Alemi Ardakani Hamid
Published: August 2017

New variational principles are given for the two-dimensional interactions between gravity-driven water waves and a rotating and translating rectangular vessel dynamically coupled to its interior potential flow with uniform vorticity. The complete set of equations of motion for the exterior water waves, the exact nonlinear hydrodynamic equations of motion for the vessel in the roll/pitch, sway/surge and heave directions, and also the full set of equations of motion for the interior fluid of the vessel, relative to the body coordinate system attached to the rotating–translating vessel, are derived from two Lagrangian functionals.
Volume Adjustable Topology Optimization with Multiple Displacement Constraints
Authors: Huang C. W. , Chou K. W.
Published: August 2017

Most topology optimization methods seek optimal topologies that satisfy a minimum compliance with a pre-specified volume constraint in the design domain. However, practical designs often include various functional constraints and the optimal solid volume ratios are unknown a priori, which implies a gap between topology optimization methods and practical designs in industries. This paper studies the performance-based topology optimization (PTO) problem that searches for the optimal topology with minimum compliance to satisfy the pre-specified functional constraints without a pre-specified volume constraint. A novel element-based evolutionary switching method (ESM), which can automatically adjust solid volume ratio and material distribution, is developed and implemented using the commercial finite element software ABAQUS. The effects of displacement constraints on the optimal topologies are investigated, and the differences between PTO problems and the topology optimization problem which has a volume constraint are discussed. Numerical examples demonstrate that the optimal topologies are mainly determined by the load pattern and locally changed with respect to the location of the active displacement constraints. In addition, the displacement constraints to a large extent control the solid volume ratio of optimal topologies according to the allowable displacements in PTO problems. Finally, the proposed ESM could provide conservative solutions to the topology optimization with multiple displacement constraints problems.
Comparing phylogenetics and linear morphometrics to solve the generic assignment ofParabolinella?triarthroidesHarrington (Trilobita, Olenidae)
Authors: Monti Daniela S. , Confalonieri Viviana A.
Published: August 2017

The use of different methodological approaches together with an exhaustive qualitative study has helped to recognize important morphological traits to distinguish species in a systematic and phylogenetic framework.Parabolinella triarthroidesHarrington, 1938 was described based on two cranidia from the Quebrada de Coquena, Purmamarca, Jujuy province. The generic assignment ofP. triarthroideshas been questioned by a phylogenetic analysis, which resolves this species as the sister group ofBienvilliaClark, 1924. To explore the generic assignment of this species, a revision of the type material, plus a morphometric analysis including specimens ofParabolinellaBrøgger, 1882 andBienvilliawere performed. In addition, the original matrix used in the published phylogeny was reviewed and enlarged, including more species ofBienvillia. Continuous characters were coded in different ways in order to compare how they could affect the ordering of specimens and their phylogenetic relationships. Finally, both methodologies were compared, especially in regard to the behavior of the quantitative characters included in the analyses. From the combined analyses, it is shown that similarities between the cranidium ofP. triarthroidesand all otherParabolinellaspecies are true homologies instead of a by-product of evolutionary convergence. Therefore,P. triarthroidesshould be considered a member of this genus. Finally, this study demonstrates that the best strategy for solving systematic problems in groups where the morphological variation is the only source of information (i.e., fossil taxa without living representatives) is the implementation of an integrative approach, combining different methodological techniques and a good description of specimens.
Effects of 1,5-anhydroglucitol on postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels and hydrogen excretion in rats and healthy humans
Authors: Nakamura Sadako , Tanabe Kenichi , Yoshinaga Kazuhiro , Shimura Fumio , Oku Tsuneyuki
Published: August 2017

The inhibition by 1,5-anhydro-d-glucitol (1,5-AG) was determined on disaccharidases of rats and humans. Then, the metabolism and fate of 1,5-AG was investigated in rats and humans. Although 1,5-AG inhibited about 50 % of sucrase activity in rat small intestine, the inhibition was less than half of d-sorbose. 1,5-AG strongly inhibited trehalase and lactase, whereas d-sorbose inhibited them very weakly. 1,5-AG noncompetitively inhibited sucrase. The inhibition of 1,5-AG on sucrase and maltase was similar between humans and rats. 1,5-AG in serum increased 30 min after oral administration of 1,5-AG (600 mg) in rats, and mostly 100 % of 1,5-AG was excreted into the urine 24 h after administration. 1,5-AG in serum showed a peak 30 min after ingestion of 1,5-AG (20 g) by healthy subjects, and decreased gradually over 180 min. About 60 % of 1,5-AG was excreted into the urine for 9 h following ingestion. Hydrogen was scarcely excreted in both rats and humans 24 h after administration of 1,5-AG. Furthermore, 1,5-AG significantly suppressed the blood glucose elevation, and hydrogen excretion was increased following the simultaneous ingestion of sucrose and 1,5-AG in healthy subjects. 1,5-AG also significantly suppressed the blood glucose elevation following the simultaneous ingestion of glucose and 1,5-AG; however, hydrogen excretion was negligible. The available energy of 1,5-AG, which is absorbed readily from the small intestine and excreted quickly into the urine, is 0 kJ/g (0 kcal/g). Furthermore, 1,5-AG might suppress the blood glucose elevation through the inhibition of sucrase, as well as intestinal glucose absorption.
Surface modification of ASP 30 steel induced by femtosecond laser with 1014 and 1013 W/cm2 intensity in vacuum
Authors: Trtica M. , Limpouch J. , Gavrilov P. , Hribek P. , Stasic J. , Brankovic G. , Chen X.
Published: August 2017

A study of ASP 30 steel surface modification with high intensity Ti:sapphire laser, operating at 804 nm wavelength and pulse duration of 60 fs, in vacuum ambient, is presented. ASP 30 steel surface variations were studied at laser intensities of 1014 and 1013 W/cm2. The steel target specific surface changes and phenomena observed are: (i) Creation of craters at 1014 W/cm2 intensity; (ii) formation of periodic surface structures only at the reduced intensity of 1013 W/cm2; (iii) chemical surface changes registered only at higher laser intensity, and (iv) occurrence of plasma in front of the surface, including its emission in X-ray region. It can be concluded from this study that the reported laser intensities can effectively be applied for ASP 30 steel surface modification. Careful choosing of laser intensity and pulse count can lead to precise superficial material removal, for example laser intensity ~1013 W/cm2 and low pulse count can lead to ultra-precise surface processing. Generally, femtosecond laser surface modification of ASP 30 steel is non-contact and very rapid compared with traditional modification methods.
History, culture, infrastructure and export markets shape fisheries and reef accessibility in India's contrasting oceanic islands
Authors: JAINI MAHIMA , ADVANI SAHIR , SHANKER KARTIK , OOMMEN MEERA A. , NAMBOOTHRI NAVEEN
Published: August 2017

Islands offer unique model systems for studying fisheries development in relation to the growing global seafood trade. This study examines how export-driven fisheries in India's oceanic islands (Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep Islands) differ significantly as a result of their varied history, culture, available infrastructure and market access. Despite being geographically closer to export centres on the Indian mainland, processing and transport infrastructure in the Lakshadweep Islands are limited. This only allows for the trade of non-perishable commodities like dried tuna that are caught using traditional pole-and-line fishing techniques, restricting reef exploitation to local preference-based consumption and opportunistic export. The Andaman Islands, on the other hand, with multiple daily flight connections and large private and government processing facilities, are better connected to export markets. The relatively recent and multicultural fisheries of these islands supply marine commodity chains for reef fishery goods such as dried shark fins, frozen snapper fillets and chilled groupers. The Nicobar Islands are furthest away from mainland export centres and are mostly populated by indigenous communities – fishing here is mostly for subsistence and local sale. Revised estimates of travel times to export market centres are counterintuitive in terms of geographical distances and are significantly different from travel times to local markets.
Gandhi’s Failure: Anticolonial Movements and Postcolonial Futures
Authors: Dasgupta Sandipto
Published: August 2017

M.K. Gandhi was the undisputed leader of India's struggle for independence. Yet his vision for postcolonial India was completely marginalized at the moment of decolonization. The article takes this seemingly paradoxical juncture as the vantage point from which to offer a critique of Gandhi's political thought and more broadly an analysis of the shift from anticolonial movements to postcolonial rule. Through the voices of Gandhi's two most significant contemporary critics—B.R. Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru—the article shows how his ideas failed to either inspire the struggle of the ruled (Ambedkar), or address the anxieties of the would-be rulers (Nehru). Gandhi's vision for a postcolonial India persisted within the conceptual constellation of negating colonial modernity, rather than the historical possibilities of postcolonial futures. These predicaments provide an opportunity to analyze the persistence of modern western political imaginaries in the decolonized world. Not through mere assertions of continuity or mimicry, but rather through the concrete struggles, aspirations, and anxieties that constituted the strands of those transitional moments.
Transnational Corruption and the Globalized Individual
Authors: Cooley Alexander , Sharman J. C.
Published: August 2017

We present a new, more transnational, networked perspective on corruption. It is premised on the importance of professional intermediaries who constitute networks facilitating cross-border illicit finance, the blurring of legal and illegal capital flows, and the globalization of the individual via multiple claims of residence and citizenship. This perspective contrasts with notions of corruption as epitomized by direct, unmediated transfers between bribe-givers and bribe-takers, disproportionately a problem of the developing world, and as bounded within national units. We argue that the professionals in major financial centers serve to lower the transaction costs of transnational corruption by senior foreign officials. Wealthy, politically powerful individuals on the margins of the law are increasingly globalized as they secure financial access, physical residence, and citizenship rights in major OECD countries. These trends are evidenced by an analysis of the main components of the relevant transnational networks: banks, shell companies, foreign real estate, and investor citizenship programs, based on extensive interviews with key informants across multiple sites.
Forced to flee: A multi-disciplinary conference on internal displacement, migration and refugee crises
Authors:   Conference report
Published: August 2017

“Forced to Flee” was a multidisciplinary two-day conference on internal displacement, migration and refugee crises, jointly organized by SOAS University of London, the Arts and Humanities Research Council, the University of Exeter, the British Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). It brought together some sixty researchers, independent and UK government policy-makers, and senior humanitarian practitioners.
Coping Humor as a Mediator Between Emotional Intelligence and Job	Satisfaction
Authors: Sun Peizhen , Chen Jennifer J. , Jiang Hongyan
Published: August 2017

Abstract. This study investigated the mediating role of coping humor in the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and job satisfaction. Participants were 398 primary school teachers in China, who completed the Wong Law Emotional Intelligence Scale, Coping Humor Scale, and Overall Job Satisfaction Scale. Results showed that coping humor was a significant mediator between EI and job satisfaction. A further examination revealed, however, that coping humor only mediated two sub-dimensions of EI (use of emotion and regulation of emotion) and job satisfaction. Implications for future research and limitations of the study are discussed.
Improving Our Understanding of El Niño in a Warm Climate
Authors: Lunn Jenny
Published: August 2017

A new study seeks to bring together the strongest features of proxy data and climate models to reduce uncertainties in reconstructions of past El Niño behavior.
AGU Books Program Continues to Grow
Authors: Lunn Jenny
Published: August 2017

With a dozen new titles published in the past year and interviews with editors as a new feature, the AGU books program is expanding during a time of change in scholarly publishing.
Nickel-catalyzed synthesis of 1,1-diborylalkanes from terminal alkenes
Authors: Li Lei , Gong Tianjun , Lu Xi , Xiao Bin , Fu Yao
Published: August 2017

Organoboron compounds play an irreplaceable role in synthetic chemistry and the related transformations based on the unique reactivity of C–B bond are potentially the most efficient methods for the synthesis of organic molecules. The synthetic importance of multiboron compounds in C–C bond formation and function transformation reactions is growing and the related borations of activated or nonactivated alkenes have been developed recently. However, introducing directly two boron moieties into the terminal sites of alkenes giving 1,1-diborylalkanes in a catalytic fashion has not been explored yet. Here we describe a synthetic strategy of 1,1-diborylalkanes via a Ni-catalyzed 1,1-diboration of readily available terminal alkenes. This methodology shows high level of chemoselectivity and regioselectivity and can be used to convert a large variety of terminal alkenes, such as vinylarenes, aliphatic alkenes and lower alkenes, to 1,1-diborylalkanes.
Phytochrome-interacting factors directly suppress MIR156 expression to enhance shade-avoidance syndrome in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xie Yurong , Liu Yang , Wang Hai , Ma Xiaojing , Wang Baobao , Wu Guangxia , Wang Haiyang
Published: August 2017

Plants have evolved a repertoire of strategies collectively termed the shade-avoidance syndrome to avoid shade from canopy and compete for light with their neighbors. However, the signaling mechanism governing the adaptive changes of adult plant architecture to shade is not well understood. Here, we show that in Arabidopsis, compared with the wild type, several PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTORS (PIFS) overexpressors all display constitutive shade-avoidance syndrome under normal high red to far-red light ratio conditions but are less sensitive to the simulated shade, whereas the MIR156 overexpressors exhibit an opposite phenotype. The simulated shade induces rapid accumulation of PIF proteins, reduced expression of multiple MIR156 genes, and concomitant elevated expression of the SQUAMOSA-PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE (SPL) family genes. Moreover, in vivo and in vitro assays indicate that PIFs bind to the promoters of several MIR156 genes directly and repress their expression. Our results establish a direct functional link between the phytochrome-PIFs and miR156-SPL regulatory modules in mediating shade-avoidance syndrome.
Piezo1 channels sense whole body physical activity to reset cardiovascular homeostasis and enhance performance
Authors: Rode Baptiste , Shi Jian , Endesh Naima , Drinkhill Mark J. , Webster Peter J. , Lotteau Sabine J. , Bailey Marc A. , Yuldasheva Nadira Y. , Ludlow Melanie J. , Cubbon Richard M. , Li Jing , Futers T. Simon , Morley Lara , Gaunt Hannah J. , Marszalek Katarzyna , Viswambharan Hema , Cuthbertson Kevin , Baxter Paul D. , Foster Richard , Sukumar Piruthivi , Weightman Andrew , Calaghan Sarah C. , Wheatcroft Stephen B. , Kearney Mark T. , Beech David J.
Published: August 2017

Mammalian biology adapts to physical activity but the molecular mechanisms sensing the activity remain enigmatic. Recent studies have revealed how Piezo1 protein senses mechanical force to enable vascular development. Here, we address Piezo1 in adult endothelium, the major control site in physical activity. Mice without endothelial Piezo1 lack obvious phenotype but close inspection reveals a specific effect on endothelium-dependent relaxation in mesenteric resistance artery. Strikingly, the Piezo1 is required for elevated blood pressure during whole body physical activity but not blood pressure during inactivity. Piezo1 is responsible for flow-sensitive non-inactivating non-selective cationic channels which depolarize the membrane potential. As fluid flow increases, depolarization increases to activate voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in the adjacent vascular smooth muscle cells, causing vasoconstriction. Physical performance is compromised in mice which lack endothelial Piezo1 and there is weight loss after sustained activity. The data suggest that Piezo1 channels sense physical activity to advantageously reset vascular control.
Work stress, anthropometry, lung function, blood pressure, and blood-based biomarkers: a cross-sectional study of 43,593 French men and women
Authors: Magnusson Hanson Linda L. , Westerlund Hugo , Goldberg Marcel , Zins Marie , Vahtera Jussi , Hulvej Rod Naja , Stenholm Sari , Steptoe Andrew , Kivimäki Mika
Published: August 2017

Work stress is a risk factor for cardio-metabolic diseases, but few large-scale studies have examined the clinical profile of individuals with work stress. To address this limitation, we conducted a cross-sectional study including 43,593 working adults from a French population-based sample aged 18–72 years (the CONSTANCES cohort). According to the Effort-Reward Imbalance model, work stress was defined as an imbalance between perceived high efforts and low rewards at work. A standardized health examination included measures of anthropometry, lung function, blood pressure and standard blood-based biomarkers. Linear regression analyses before and after multivariable adjustment for age, socioeconomic status, depressive symptoms, health-related behaviours, and chronic conditions showed that work stress was associated with higher BMI, waist circumference, waist-hip ratio, alanine transaminase, white blood cell count and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in men, and with higher BMI and white blood cell count in women (differences 0.03–0.06 standard deviations, P < 0.05 between individuals with and without work stress). No robust associations were observed with lung function, haemoglobin, creatinine, glucose levels or resting blood pressure measures. This indicates that work stress is associated altered metabolic profile, increased systemic inflammation, and, in men, poorer liver function, which is a marker of high alcohol consumption.
Metastability for discontinuous dynamical systems under Lévy noise: Case study on Amazonian Vegetation
Authors: Serdukova Larissa , Zheng Yayun , Duan Jinqiao , Kurths Jürgen
Published: August 2017

For the tipping elements in the Earth’s climate system, the most important issue to address is how stable is the desirable state against random perturbations. Extreme biotic and climatic events pose severe hazards to tropical rainforests. Their local effects are extremely stochastic and difficult to measure. Moreover, the direction and intensity of the response of forest trees to such perturbations are unknown, especially given the lack of efficient dynamical vegetation models to evaluate forest tree cover changes over time. In this study, we consider randomness in the mathematical modelling of forest trees by incorporating uncertainty through a stochastic differential equation. According to field-based evidence, the interactions between fires and droughts are a more direct mechanism that may describe sudden forest degradation in the south-eastern Amazon. In modeling the Amazonian vegetation system, we include symmetric α-stable Lévy perturbations. We report results of stability analysis of the metastable fertile forest state. We conclude that even a very slight threat to the forest state stability represents L´evy noise with large jumps of low intensity, that can be interpreted as a fire occurring in a non-drought year. During years of severe drought, high-intensity fires significantly accelerate the transition between a forest and savanna state.
Lossless Three-Dimensional Parallelization in Digitally Scanned Light-Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Dean Kevin M. , Fiolka Reto
Published: August 2017

We introduce a concept that enables parallelized three-dimensional imaging throughout large volumes with isotropic 300–350 nm resolution. By staggering high aspect ratio illumination beams laterally and axially within the depth of focus of a digitally scanned light-sheet fluorescence microscope (LSFM), multiple image planes can be simultaneously imaged with minimal cross-talk and light loss. We present a first demonstration of this concept for parallelized imaging by synthesizing two light-sheets with nonlinear Bessel beams and perform volumetric imaging of fluorescent beads and invasive breast cancer cells. This work demonstrates that in principle any digitally scanned LSFM can be parallelized in a lossless manner, enabling drastically faster volumetric image acquisition rates for a given sample brightness and detector technology.
DACT1 Overexpression in type I ovarian cancer inhibits malignant expansion and cis-platinum resistance by modulating canonical Wnt signalling and autophagy
Authors: Li Ruo-nan , Liu Bin , Li Xue-mei , Hou Liang-si , Mu Xiao-ling , Wang Hui , Linghu Hua
Published: August 2017

Type I epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is primarily resistant to platinum-based chemotherapies and needs novel therapeutics. Given the aberrant Wnt activation in type I EOC and the involvement of Dapper1 Antagonist of Catenin-1 (DACT1) in Wnt signalling, the role of DACT1 in tumourigenesis of type I EOC was evaluated. Firstly, all tested EOC cell lines and primary EOC tissues, especially type I EOC, were observed to have significantly lower DACT1 expression than normal controls. Next, 3AO cells, which arise from a patient with primary mucinous EOC and express low endogenous levels of DACT1, were transfected with a lentivirus carrying full-length DACT1 (3AO-DACT1), grew slower and formed smaller tumours in nude mice compared to 3AO-NC. Furthermore, 3AO-DACT1 had lower levels of key mediators of canonical Wnt signalling, Dvl2 and β-catenin, GSK-3β with phosphorylated Ser9, and the Wnt/β-catenin target genes, with significantly lower nuclear β-catenin levels. Additionally, 3AO-DACT which contained higher levels of lipidated LC3 (LC3-II) and Beclin1, but lower levels of p62/SQSTM1, were more sensitive to cis-platinum. And chloroquine partially rescued its cis-platinum resistance. We identified DACT1 as a negative regulator in type I EOC, protecting against malignant expansion by inhibiting canonical Wnt signalling and cis-platinum resistance by regulating autophagy.
In vivo biodistribution and toxicity of intravesical administration of quantum dots for optical molecular imaging of bladder cancer
Authors: Pan Ying , Chang Timothy , Marcq Gautier , Liu Changhao , Kiss Bernhard , Rouse Robert , Mach Kathleen E. , Cheng Zhen , Liao Joseph C.
Published: August 2017

Optical molecular imaging holds the potential to improve cancer diagnosis. Fluorescent nanoparticles such as quantum dots (QD) offer superior optical characteristics compared to organic dyes, but their in vivo application is limited by potential toxicity from systemic administration. Topical administration provides an attractive route for targeted nanoparticles with the possibility of minimizing exposure and reduced dose. Previously, we demonstrated successful ex vivo endoscopic imaging of human bladder cancer by topical (i.e. intravesical) administration of QD-conjugated anti-CD47. Herein we investigate in vivo biodistribution and toxicity of intravesically instilled free QD and anti-CD47-QD in mice. In vivo biodistribution of anti-CD47-QD was assessed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Local and systemic toxicity was assessed using blood tests, organ weights, and histology. On average, there was no significant accumulation of QD outside of the bladder, although in some mice we detected extravesical biodistribution of QD suggesting a route for systemic exposure under some conditions. There were no indications of acute toxicity up to 7 days after instillation. Intravesical administration of targeted nanoparticles can reduce systemic exposure, but for clinical use, nanoparticles with established biosafety profiles should be used to decrease long-term toxicity in cases where systemic exposure occurs.
Metabolomic compounds identified in Piriformospora indica-colonized Chinese cabbage roots delineate symbiotic functions of the interaction
Authors: Hua Mo Da-Sang , Senthil Kumar Rajendran , Shyur Lie-Fen , Cheng Yuan-Bin , Tian Zhihong , Oelmüller Ralf , Yeh Kai-Wun
Published: August 2017

Root colonization by endophytic fungus Piriformospora indica facilitating growth/development and stress tolerance has been demonstrated in various host plants. However, global metabolomic studies are rare. By using high-throughput gas-chromatography-based mass spectrometry, 549 metabolites of 1,126 total compounds observed were identified in colonized and uncolonized Chinese cabbage roots, and hyphae of P. indica. The analyses demonstrate that the host metabolomic compounds and metabolite pathways are globally reprogrammed after symbiosis with P. indica. Especially, γ-amino butyrate (GABA), oxylipin-family compounds, poly-saturated fatty acids, and auxin and its intermediates were highly induced and de novo synthesized in colonized roots. Conversely, nicotinic acid (niacin) and dimethylallylpyrophosphate were strongly decreased. In vivo assays with exogenously applied compounds confirmed that GABA primes plant immunity toward pathogen attack and enhances high salinity and temperature tolerance. Moreover, generation of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species stimulated by nicotinic acid is repressed by P. indica, and causes the feasibility of symbiotic interaction. This global metabolomic analysis and the identification of symbiosis-specific metabolites may help to understand how P. indica confers benefits to the host plant.
Sensing coral reef connectivity pathways from space
Authors: Raitsos Dionysios E. , Brewin Robert J. W. , Zhan Peng , Dreano Denis , Pradhan Yaswant , Nanninga Gerrit B. , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: August 2017

Coral reefs rely on inter-habitat connectivity to maintain gene flow, biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Coral reef communities of the Red Sea exhibit remarkable genetic homogeneity across most of the Arabian Peninsula coastline, with a genetic break towards the southern part of the basin. While previous studies have attributed these patterns to environmental heterogeneity, we hypothesize that they may also emerge as a result of dynamic circulation flow; yet, such linkages remain undemonstrated. Here, we integrate satellite-derived biophysical observations, particle dispersion model simulations, genetic population data and ship-borne in situ profiles to assess reef connectivity in the Red Sea. We simulated long-term (>20 yrs.) connectivity patterns driven by remotely-sensed sea surface height and evaluated results against estimates of genetic distance among populations of anemonefish, Amphiprion bicinctus, along the eastern Red Sea coastline. Predicted connectivity was remarkably consistent with genetic population data, demonstrating that circulation features (eddies, surface currents) formulate physical pathways for gene flow. The southern basin has lower physical connectivity than elsewhere, agreeing with known genetic structure of coral reef organisms. The central Red Sea provides key source regions, meriting conservation priority. Our analysis demonstrates a cost-effective tool to estimate biophysical connectivity remotely, supporting coastal management in data-limited regions.
Diagnostic classification of solitary pulmonary nodules using dual time 18F-FDG PET/CT image texture features in granuloma-endemic regions
Authors: Chen Song , Harmon Stephanie , Perk Timothy , Li Xuena , Chen Meijie , Li Yaming , Jeraj Robert
Published: August 2017

Lung cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, usually presents as solid pulmonary nodules (SPNs) on early diagnostic images. Classification of malignant disease at this early timepoint is critical for improving the success of surgical resection and increasing 5-year survival rates. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT has demonstrated value for SPNs diagnosis with high sensitivity to detect malignant SPNs, but lower specificity in diagnosing malignant SPNs in populations with endemic infectious lung disease. This study aimed to determine whether quantitative heterogeneity derived from various texture features on dual time FDG PET/CT images (DTPI) can differentiate between malignant and benign SPNs in patients from granuloma-endemic regions. Machine learning methods were employed to find optimal discrimination between malignant and benign nodules. Machine learning models trained by texture features on DTPI images achieved significant improvements over standard clinical metrics and visual interpretation for discriminating benign from malignant SPNs, especially by texture features on delayed FDG PET/CT images.
Metal-induced aggregation of valine capped gold nanoparticles: An efficient and rapid approach for colorimetric detection of Pb2+ ions
Authors: Priyadarshini E. , Pradhan N.
Published: August 2017

In this study, we report a novel application of valine-capped gold nanoparticles for colorimetric and visual detection of lead ions. The –COO− group of the hydrophobic valine molecules present efficient electrostatic repulsion resulting in generation of stable, well-dispersed and size-controlled GNPs. The GNPs were highly selective for Pb2+ ions and showed visible colour change in the assay mixture on addition of solution containing lead ions. Interestingly, a decrease in the intensity of original SPR peak at 530 nm was observed, with concomitant appearance of a new peak at longer wavelength due to agglomerated GNPs. The free –COO− groups on GNP surface interacted with Pb2+ and ion-dependent chelation mechanism lead to cross-linking of particles and subsequent agglomeration. Binding of Pb2+ ions and valine-capped GNPs occur in a stochiometric ratio of 1:2. The GNPs displayed colorimetric sensing in the range of 0 to 100 ppm concentration with a very high selectivity towards lead even in the presence of other metal ions. The minimum detection limit (MDL) for Pb2+ was 30.5 µM. We anticipate that these valine-capped GNPs may be employed for lead detection in polluted water/wastewater through a cost-efficient, one-step assay protocol as it does not require additional functionalization with specific ligand molecules.
On the use of atomistic simulations to aid bulk metallic glasses structural elucidation with solid-state NMR
Authors: Ferreira Ary R. , Rino José P.
Published: August 2017

Solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) experimental 27Al metallic shifts reported in the literature for bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) were revisited in the light of state-of-the-art atomistic simulations. In a consistent way, the Gauge-Including Projector Augmented-Wave (GIPAW) method was applied in conjunction with classical molecular dynamics (CMD). A series of Zr-Cu-Al alloys with low Al concentrations were selected as case study systems, for which realistic CMD derived structural models were used for a short- and medium-range order mining. That initial procedure allowed the detection of trends describing changes on the microstructure of the material upon Al alloying, which in turn were used to guide GIPAW calculations with a set of abstract systems in the context of ssNMR. With essential precision and accuracy, the ab initio simulations also yielded valuable trends from the electronic structure point of view, which enabled an overview of the bonding nature of Al-centered clusters as well as its influence on the experimental ssNMR outcomes. The approach described in this work might promote the use of ssNMR spectroscopy in research on glassy metals. Moreover, the results presented demonstrate the possibility to expand the applications of this technique, with deeper insight into nuclear interactions and less speculative assignments.
Oxygen nanobubbles revert hypoxia by methylation programming
Authors: Bhandari Pushpak N. , Cui Yi , Elzey Bennett D. , Goergen Craig J. , Long Christopher M. , Irudayaraj Joseph
Published: August 2017

Targeting the hypoxic tumor microenvironment has a broad impact in cancer epigenetics and therapeutics. Oxygen encapsulated nanosize carboxymethyl cellulosic nanobubbles were developed for mitigating the hypoxic regions of tumors to weaken the hypoxia-driven pathways and inhibit tumor growth. We show that 5-methylcytosine (5mC) hypomethylation in hypoxic regions of a tumor can be reverted to enhance cancer treatment by epigenetic regulation, using oxygen nanobubbles in the sub-100 nm size range, both, in vitro and in vivo. Oxygen nanobubbles were effective in significantly delaying tumor progression and improving survival rates in mice models. Further, significant hypermethylation was observed in promoter DNA region of BRCA1 due to oxygen nanobubble (ONB) treatment. The nanobubbles can also reprogram several hypoxia associated and tumor suppressor genes such as MAT2A and PDK-1, in addition to serving as an ultrasound contrast agent. Our approach to develop nanosized oxygen encapsulated bubbles as an ultrasound contrast agent for methylation reversal is expected to have a significant impact in epigenetic programming and to serve as an adjuvant to cancer treatment.
Quantitative proteomic characterization of lung-MSC and bone marrow-MSC using DIA-mass spectrometry
Authors: Rolandsson Enes Sara , Åhrman Emma , Palani Anitha , Hallgren Oskar , Bjermer Leif , Malmström Anders , Scheding Stefan , Malmström Johan , Westergren-Thorsson Gunilla
Published: August 2017

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are ideal candidates for cell therapies, due to their immune-regulatory and regenerative properties. We have previously reported that lung-derived MSC are tissue-resident cells with lung-specific properties compared to bone marrow-derived MSC. Assessing relevant molecular differences between lung-MSC and bone marrow-MSC is important, given that such differences may impact their behavior and potential therapeutic use. Here, we present an in-depth mass spectrometry (MS) based strategy to investigate the proteomes of lung-MSC and bone marrow-MSC. The MS-strategy relies on label free quantitative data-independent acquisition (DIA) analysis and targeted data analysis using a MSC specific spectral library. We identified several significantly differentially expressed proteins between lung-MSC and bone marrow-MSC within the cell layer (352 proteins) and in the conditioned medium (49 proteins). Bioinformatics analysis revealed differences in regulation of cell proliferation, which was functionally confirmed by decreasing proliferation rate through Cytochrome P450 stimulation. Our study reveals important differences within proteome and matrisome profiles between lung- and bone marrow-derived MSC that may influence their behavior and affect the clinical outcome when used for cell-therapy.
Large Thermal Motion in Halide Perovskites
Authors: Tyson T. A. , Gao W. , Chen Y.-S. , Ghose S. , Yan Y.
Published: August 2017

Solar cells based on hybrid perovskites have shown high efficiency while possessing simple processing methods. To gain a fundamental understanding of their properties on an atomic level, we investigate single crystals of CH3NH3PbI3with a narrow transition (~5 K) near 327 K. Temperature dependent structural measurements reveal a persistent tetragonal structure with smooth changes in the atomic displacement parameters (ADPs) on crossing T*. We show that the ADPs for I ions yield extended flat regions in the potential wells consistent with the measured large thermal expansion parameter. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal that this material exhibits significant asymmetries in the Pb-I pair distribution functions. We also show that the intrinsically enhanced freedom of motion of the iodine atoms enables large deformations. This flexibility (softness) of the atomic structure results in highly localized atomic relaxation about defects and hence accounts for both the high carrier mobility as well as the structural instability.