bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supersymmetry anomalies in $$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$ conformal supergravity
Authors: Papadimitriou Ioannis
Published: April 2019

Abstract

We solve the Wess-Zumino consistency conditions of $$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$
N
=
1
off-shell conformal supergravity in four dimensions and determine the general form of the superconformal anomalies for arbitrary a and c anomaly coefficients to leading non trivial order in the gravitino. Besides the well known Weyl and R-symmetry anomalies, we compute explicitly the fermionic $$ \mathcal{Q} $$
Q
- and $$ \mathcal{S} $$
S
-supersymmetry anomalies. In particular, we show that $$ \mathcal{Q} $$
Q
-supersymmetry is anomalous if and only if R-symmetry is anomalous. The $$ \mathcal{Q} $$
Q
- and $$ \mathcal{S} $$
S
-supersymmetry anomalies give rise to an anomalous supersymmetry transformation for the supercurrent on curved backgrounds admitting Killing spinors, resulting in a deformed rigid supersymmetry algebra. Our results may have implications for supersymmetric localization and supersymmetry phenomenology. Analogous results are expected to hold in dimensions two and six and for other supergravity theories. The present analysis of the Wess-Zumino consistency conditions reproduces the holographic result of arXiv:1703.0429 and generalizes it to arbitrary a and c anomaly coefficients.
Bounds and prospects for stable multiply charged particles at the LHC
Authors: Jäger Sebastian , Kvedaraitė Sandra , Perez Gilad , Savoray Inbar
Published: April 2019

Abstract

Colored and colorless particles that are stable on collider scales and carry exotic electric charges, so-called Multiply-Charged Heavy Stable Particles (MCHSPs), exist in extensions of the Standard Model, and can include the top partner(s) in solutions of the hierarchy problem. To obtain bounds on color-triplets and color-singlets of charges up to |Q| = 8, we recast searches for signatures of two production channels: the “open” channel — where the particles are pair-produced above threshold, and are detectable in dedicated LHC searches for stable multiply charged leptons, and the “closed” channel — where a particle-antiparticle pair is produced as a bound state, detectable in searches for a diphoton resonance. We recast the open lepton searches by incorporating the relevant strong-interaction effects for color-triplets. In both open and closed production, we provide a careful assessment of photon-induced processes using the accurate LUXqed PDF, resulting in substantially weaker bounds than previously claimed in the literature for the colorless case. Our bounds for colored MCHSPs are shown for the first time, as the LHC experiments have not searched for them directly. Generally, we obtain nearly charge-independent lower mass limits of around 970 GeV (color-triplet scalar), 1200 GeV (color-triplet fermion), and 880-900 GeV (color-singlet fermion) from open production, and strongly charge-dependent limits from closed production. In all cases there is a cross-over between dominance by open and closed searches at some charge. We provide prospective bounds for$$ \sqrt{s}=13 $$s=13TeV LHC searches at integrated luminosities of 39.5 fb−1, 100 fb−1, and 300 fb−1. Moreover, we show that a joint observation in the open and the closed channels allows to determine the mass, spin, color, and electric charge of the particle.
Minimal gauge invariant and gauge fixed actions for massive higher-spin fields
Authors: Asano Masako
Published: April 2019

Abstract

Inspired by the rich structure of covariant string field theory, we propose a minimal gauge invariant action for general massive integer spin n field. The action consists of four totally symmetric tensor fields of order respectively n, n − 1, n − 2 and n − 3, and is invariant under the gauge transformation represented by two also totally symmetric fields of order n − 1 and n − 2. This action exactly has the same gauge structure as for the string field theory and we discuss general covariant gauge fixing procedure using the knowledge of string field theory. We explicitly construct the corresponding gauge fixed action for each of general covariant gauge fixing conditions.
Solving mass-deformed holography perturbatively
Authors: Kim Nakwoo
Published: April 2019

Abstract

We study supergravity BPS equations which correspond to mass-deformation of some representative AdS/CFT examples. The field theory of interest are

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4, D = 4 super Yang-Mills, the ABJM model in D = 3, and the Brandhuber-Oz fixed point in D = 5. For these gauge theories the free energy with mass terms for matter multiplets is calculable in large-N limit using supersymmetric localization technique. We suggest a perturbative method to solve the supergravity equations. For the dual of mass-deformed ABJM model we reproduce the known exact solutions. For the mass-deformed Brandhuber-Oz theory our method gives the holographic free energy in analytic form. For

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2* theory our result is in good agreement with the localization result.
A bound on massive higher spin particles
Authors: Afkhami-Jeddi Nima , Kundu Sandipan , Tajdini Amirhossein
Published: April 2019

Abstract

According to common lore, massive elementary higher spin particles lead to inconsistencies when coupled to gravity. However, this scenario was not completely ruled out by previous arguments. In this paper, we show that in a theory where the low energy dynamics of the gravitons are governed by the Einstein-Hilbert action, any finite number of massive elementary particles with spin more than two cannot interact with gravitons, even classically, in a way that preserves causality. This is achieved in flat spacetime by studying eikonal scattering of higher spin particles in more than three spacetime dimensions. Our argument is insensitive to the physics above the effective cut-off scale and closes certain loopholes in previous arguments. Furthermore, it applies to higher spin particles even if they do not contribute to tree-level graviton scattering as a consequence of being charged under a global symmetry such as ℤ2. We derive analogous bounds in anti-de Sitter space-time from analyticity properties of correlators of the dual CFT in the Regge limit. We also argue that an infinite tower of fine-tuned higher spin particles can still be consistent with causality. However, they necessarily affect the dynamics of gravitons at an energy scale comparable to the mass of the lightest higher spin particle. Finally, we apply the bound in de Sitter to impose restrictions on the structure of three-point functions in the squeezed limit of the scalar curvature perturbation produced during inflation.
Reconstructing parton distribution functions from Ioffe time data: from Bayesian methods to neural networks
Authors: Karpie Joseph , Orginos Kostas , Rothkopf Alexander , Zafeiropoulos Savvas
Published: April 2019

Abstract

The computation of the parton distribution functions (PDF) or distribution amplitudes (DA) of hadrons from first principles lattice QCD constitutes a central open problem in high energy nuclear physics. In this study, we present and evaluate the efficiency of several numerical methods, well established in the study of inverse problems, to reconstruct the full x-dependence of PDFs. Our starting point are the so called Ioffe time PDFs, which are accessible from Euclidean time simulations in conjunction with a matching procedure. Using realistic mock data tests, we find that the ill-posed incomplete Fourier transform underlying the reconstruction requires careful regularization, for which both the Bayesian approach as well as neural networks are efficient and flexible choices.
Modelling the dynamic effects of elective hospital admissions on emergency levels in England
Authors: Jimenez-Martin Sergi , Nicodemo Catia , Redding Stuart
Published: April 2019

In England as elsewhere, policy makers are trying to reduce the pressure on costs due to rising hospital admissions by encouraging GPs to refer fewer patients to hospital specialists. This could have an impact on elective treatment levels, particularly procedures for conditions which are not life-threatening and can be delayed or perhaps withheld entirely. This study attempts to determine whether cost savings in one area of publicly funded health care may lead to the increases in cost in another and therefore have unintended consequences by offsetting the cost-saving benefits anticipated by policy makers. Using administrative data from Hospital Episode Statistics in England, we estimate dynamic fixed effects panel data models for emergency admissions at Primary Care Trust and Hospital Trust levels for the years 2004–2013, controlling for a group of area-specific characteristics and other secondary care variables. We find a negative link between current levels of elective care and future levels of emergency treatment. This observation comes from a time of growing admissions, and there is no guarantee that the link between emergency and elective activity will persist if policy is effective in reducing levels of elective treatment, but our results suggest that the cost-saving benefits to the NHS from reducing elective treatment are reduced by between 5.6 and 15.5% in aggregate as a consequence of increased emergency activity.
Realization of high-efficiency and high-output characteristics of magnetic power generators using single-phase angle transformation and three-phase six-wire winding
Authors: Lin Ching-Chuan , Chen Chang-Ren
Published: April 2019

Taiwan’s electricity consumption during summer increases significantly owing to the abnormal climatic changes caused by the greenhouse effect. An expedient strategy to develop a high-efficiency magnetic power generator can address the existing problem of power shortage in Taiwan. The magnetic power generator uses the force between the polarity of the magnet and the induced magnetic field of the coil to generate suction and thrust forces, which are generated when a magnet enters and leaves the coil, respectively, and can reduce the motor power consumption to achieve an energy saving effect. From the viewpoint of single-phase magnetic power generators, an angle transformation arrangement is used to achieve a positive power output to maximize the power efficiency, and three-phase power generation is used to maximize the output, where 8 magnets and 12 six-wire wound coils are used in conjunction with a delta or Y connection to achieve three-phase output. Each phase is 120° out of phase and each phase has 4 coils that generate power per revolution simultaneously. The high output characteristic enables the use of the three-phase magnetic power generators in several industrial applications. Herein, for a single-phase power generator, 8 magnets and 10 wires were used in an angle transformation arrangement, which achieved an output efficiency of up to 129.7%, whereas the three-phase power generator with 8 magnets and 12 six-wire wound coils with a diameter of 0.4 mm were used in conjunction with a delta or Y connection and achieved, which achieved an output efficiency of up to 82%, indicating that both these generators can be used for emergency power generation in homes, factories, or hospitals.
Safety and clinical activity of the Notch inhibitor, crenigacestat (LY3039478), in an open-label phase I trial expansion cohort of advanced or metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Even C. , Lassen U. , Merchan J. , Le Tourneau C. , Soria J-C , Ferte C. , Ricci F. , Diener J. T. , Yuen E. , Smith C. , Oakley G. J. , Benhadji K. A. , Massard Christophe
Published: April 2019

BackgroundDeregulated Notch signaling is implicated in multiple cancers. The phase I trial (I6F-MC-JJCA) investigated the safety and anti-tumor activity of crenigacestat (LY3039478), a selective oral Notch inhibitor, in an expansion cohort of patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) who received the dose-escalation-recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D), established previously (Massard C, et al.,Annals Oncol2018, 29:1911–17).MethodsPatients with advanced or metastatic cancer, measurable disease, ECOG-PS ≤1, and baseline tumor tissue were enrolled. Primary objectives were to identify a safe RP2D, confirm this dose in expansion cohorts, and document anti-tumor activity. Secondary objectives included safety and progression-free survival (PFS). The ACC expansion cohort received the RP2D regimen of 50 mg crenigacestat thrice per week in a 28-day cycle until disease progression or other discontinuation criteria were met.ResultsTwenty-two patients with ACC were enrolled in the expansion cohort (median age of 60 years). Median treatment duration was 3 cycles with 6 patients remaining on treatment. There were no objective responses; 1 (5%) patient had an unconfirmed partial response. Disease control rate was 73% and 4 patients had stable disease ≥6 months. Median PFS was 5.3 months (95%CI: 2.4-NE)) for the 22 patients; and 7.7 months (95%CI: 4.0-NR) and 2.4 months (95%CI: 1.1-NE) in the subgroup of patients in second-line (n = 7) or ≥ third-line (n = 9), respectively. Frequent treatment-related-adverse events (all grades) included diarrhea, fatigue, vomiting, decreased appetite, dry mouth, and dry skin. There were no new safety signals.ConclusionThe crenigacestat RP2D regimen induced manageable toxicity and limited clinical activity, without confirmed responses, in heavily pretreated patients with ACC.
Can your advertising really buy earned impressions? The effect of brand advertising on word of mouth
Authors: Lovett Mitchell J. , Peres Renana , Xu Linli
Published: April 2019

Paid media expenditures could potentially increase earned media exposures such as social media posts and other word-of-mouth (WOM). However, academic research on the effect of advertising on WOM is scarce and shows mixed results. We examine the relationship between monthly Internet and TV advertising expenditures and WOM for 538 U.S. national brands across 16 categories over 6.5 years. We find that the average implied advertising elasticity on total WOM is small: 0.019 for TV, and 0.014 for Internet. On the online WOM (measured volume of brand chatter on blogs, user-forums, and Twitter), we find average monthly effects of 0.008 for TV and 0.01 for Internet advertising. Even the categories that have the strongest implied elasticities are only as large as 0.05. Despite this small average effect, we do find that advertising in certain events may produce more desirable amounts of WOM. Specifically, using a synthetic control approach, we find that being a Super Bowl advertiser causes a moderate increase in total WOM that lasts 1 month. The effect on online WOM is larger, but lasts for only 3 days. We discuss the implications of these findings for managing advertising and WOM.
The structure of audio–visual consciousness
Authors: Skrzypulec Błażej
Published: April 2019

It is commonly believed that human perceptual experiences can be, and usually are, multimodal. What is more, a stronger thesis is often proposed that some perceptual multimodal characters cannot be described simply as a conjunction of unimodal phenomenal elements. If it is the case, then a question arises: what is the additional mode of combination that is required to adequately describe the phenomenal structure of multimodal experiences? The paper investigates what types of audio–visual experiences have phenomenal character that cannot be analysed as a mere conjunction of visual and auditory elements; and how can we properly characterise the required, additional mode of perceptual combination. Three main modes of combination are considered: (a) instantiation, (b) parthood, and (c) grouping. It is argued that some phenomena involving intermodal relations, like spatial and temporal ventriloquism, can be analysed in terms of audio–visual, perceptual grouping. On the other hand, cases of intermodal binding need a different treatment. Experiences involving audio–visual binding should be analysed as experiences presenting objects or events which instantiate, or which have a proper part instantiating, both visually and auditorily determined properties.
Stepwise Fabrication of Co-Embedded Porous Multichannel Carbon Nanofibers for High-Efficiency Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Tang Zeming , Zhao Yingxuan , Lai Qingxue , Zhong Jia , Liang Yanyu
Published: April 2019

A novel nonprecious metal material consisting of Co-embedded porous interconnected multichannel carbon nanofibers (Co/IMCCNFs) was rationally designed for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysis. In the synthesis, ZnCo2O4 was employed to form interconnected mesoporous channels and provide highly active Co3O4/Co core–shell nanoparticle-based sites for the ORR. The IMC structure with a large synergistic effect of the N and Co active sites provided fast ORR electrocatalysis kinetics. The Co/IMCCNFs exhibited a high half-wave potential of 0.82 V (vs. reversible hydrogen electrode) and excellent stability with a current retention up to 88% after 12,000 cycles in a current–time test, which is only 55% for 30 wt% Pt/C.
Buckling behavior of steel column with triangularly corrugated web
Authors: Kudryavtsev Sergey
Published: April 2019

The paper presents a study of behaviour of axially loaded columns that consist of two flanges and a thin triangularly corrugated web, connected by automatic welding. In the literature, the buckling behaviour of steel columns was dealt with mostly for members with plate webs. Researches of that problem for columns with corrugated webs were found out to be very limited. A parametric study is carried out for various column slenderness and corrugation densities. A general-purpose finite element analysis software ABAQUS was used. The corrugation densities adopted in this study represent practical geometries, which are commonly used for such structures in building practice. Plot showing the influence of section slenderness on value of reduction factor for lateral buckling is presented. It is determined that existing buckling curves poorly describe the dependence of the reduction factor on slenderness for axially compressed members with triangularly corrugated webs. Finally, recommendations were proposed for the design of pin-ended columns with corrugated webs at lateral buckling in accordance with numerical results.
Possibilities of Use Recycled Materials in Construction Details
Authors: Smolka Radim , Sobotka Jindřich
Published: April 2019

This paper aims to explain the use of secondary materials in design details. Primarily, attention is paid to flat roofs, for which there is currently a wide range of technologies needed for user-friendly operation of a building. Recycled materials are still often looked down on and, therefore, it is important to show that even these elements may work very well in constructions. They must meet strict criteria for static and thermal properties. Furthermore, they must comply with fire and weather resistance requirements. They also have acoustic, secondary and aesthetic function. The roof structure is one of the basic segments that characterize the final properties of the building. Any malfunctions will lead to increased economic costs and degradation of users’ environment.
Testing of brick clay modifications as a raw material for building ceramic products
Authors: Šál Jiří
Published: April 2019

Brick clay is nowadays modified by various procedures to achieve the best properties when used for building ceramic products. In the treatment of these clays, the properties are regulated by changing the quantity of water, sharpening, lightening, venting, settling, using additives, but also by consistent homogenization, crushing, grinding and mixing.

This article compares several clay bricks before and after treatment and also compares them with ceramic clay. Comparative parameters are bulk density, porosity, water absorption, compressive strength and flexural strength, long-term changes in burning and weight loss by burning.
Tyranny, Communism, and U.S. Policy in Equatorial Guinea, 1968–1979*
Authors: Jensen Geoffrey
Published: April 2019

This study of Washington’s dealings with Equatorial Guinea under the rule of one of modern Africa’s most brutal dictators, Francisco Macías Nguema, analyzes US perceptions and policies relating to communist intervention, human rights, and related geopolitical issues during the Nixon, Ford, and Carter presidencies. It also sheds light on the relationships and conflicts between the Soviet Union, China, and Cuba in Africa. In addition, it offers new perspectives on Cuba’s close ties to the dictatorship of Francisco Macías Nguema and on the possible role of international actors in his downfall in 1979.
Pollen Diet Composition Impacts Early Nesting Success in Queen Bumble Bees Bombus impatiens Cresson(Hymenoptera: Apidae)
Authors: Watrous Kristal M , Duennes Michelle A , Woodard S Hollis
Published: April 2019

Bumble bees are generalist pollinators that typically collect floral rewards from a wide array of flowering plant species. Among the greatest threats to wild bumble bee populations worldwide, many of which are declining, is a loss of floral resource abundance and diversity in the landscapes they inhabit. We examined how composition of pollen diet impacts early nesting success in laboratory-reared queens of the bumble bee Bombus impatiens. Specifically, we provided queens and their young nests with one of three pollen diets, each of which was dominated by a single pollen type, and explored how this diet treatment influenced the length of time until queens initiated nests, total counts of brood in the nest at the end of the experiment (8 wk later), and the size and weight of adult offspring produced. We found that the amount of later-stage brood (pupae and/or adults) produced by recently-initiated nests was strongly impacted by pollen diet. For example, on average 66% fewer later-stage brood were found in nests provided with the Cistus pollen Linnaeus (Cistaceae), relative to the predominantly Asteraceae pollen. This finding suggests that particular pollen diet compositions may delay larval growth, which delays colony development and may ultimately be detrimental for young nests. This study sheds light on how one of the leading stressors for bumble bees (nutritional stress) may negatively impact populations through its influence on brood production during the nest-founding stage of the colony cycle.
Who watches the WATCHMAN™? A case of incomplete endothelialization at 3 years after device implantation
Authors: McIvor Felicity , Wall Douglas
Published: April 2019

WATCHMAN™ is a left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion device used to prevent thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. Endothelialization of the device is required to completely occlude the LAA. Prior to endothelialization, the device is thrombogenic. The duration of dual-antiplatelet therapy after device insertion is based on animal studies demonstrating endothelialization at 3 months. A 73-year-old man presented with symptomatic severe mitral regurgitation 3 years after the WATCHMAN device was implanted. During mitral valve repair, we found that the WATCHMAN device was not endothelialized. The device was removed and the LAA was ligated after repair of the mitral valve. The long-term incidence and clinical significance of incomplete endothelialization after LAA-occlusion must be investigated. Postimplantation and perioperative antiplatelet and anticoagulation protocols require re-evaluation. The potential role of thoracoscopic epicardial LAA clipping must be considered.
Biochemical insights into the recombinant 10-deacetylbaccatin III-10-β-O-acetyltransferase enzyme from the Taxol-producing endophytic fungus Lasiodiplodia theobromae
Authors: Sah Balendra , Subban Kamalraj , Jayabaskaran Chelliah
Published: April 2019

10-deacetylbaccatin III-10-β-O-acetyltransferase (DBAT) is a key rate-limiting enzyme of the Taxol biosynthetic pathway, which is uncharacterized in Taxol-producing endophytic fungi. Here, an open reading frame of DBAT was cloned from the Taxol-producing endophytic fungus Lasiodiplodia theobromae (LtDBAT). The LtDBAT enzyme was heterologously expressed and purified by the affinity and gel filtration chromatography methods. The molecular weight of the purified protein was 49 kDa and its identity was confirmed by western blot. The purified LtDBAT enzyme was capable of catalyzing 10-deacetylbaccatin III into baccatin III, as shown by liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy. The mass spectra of baccatin III were identical to the authentic baccatin III. The LtDBAT enzyme was characterized and the kinetic parameters of catalysis were determined. In addition, localization of LtDBAT was performed by using confocal microscopy and the result showed that the enzyme was localized in lipid droplets. Together, this study provides biochemical insights into the fungal recombinant DBAT enzyme that is involved in the Taxol biosynthetic pathway. In the near future, engineering of the LtDBAT enzyme and the Taxol biosynthetic pathway in endophytic fungi could be an eco-friendly and economically feasible alternative source for production of Taxol and its precursors.
Functional coupling in the evolution of suction feeding and gill ventilation of sculpins (Perciformes: Cottoidei)
Authors: Farina S C , Knope M L , Corn K A , Summers A P , Bemis W E
Published: April 2019

Suction feeding and gill ventilation in teleosts are functionally coupled, meaning that there is an overlap in the structures involved with both functions. Functional coupling is one type of morphological integration, a term that broadly refers to any covariation, correlation, or coordination among structures. Suction feeding and gill ventilation exhibit other types of morphological integration, including functional coordination (a tendency of structures to work together to perform a function) and evolutionary integration (a tendency of structures to covary in size or shape across evolutionary history). Functional coupling, functional coordination, and evolutionary integration have each been proposed to limit morphological diversification to some extent. Yet teleosts show extraordinary cranial diversity, suggesting that there are mechanisms within some teleost clades that promote morphological diversification, even within the highly integrated suction feeding and gill ventilatory systems. To investigate this, we quantified evolutionary integration among four mechanical units associated with suction feeding and gill ventilation in a diverse clade of benthic, primarily suction-feeding fishes (Cottoidei; sculpins and relatives). We reconstructed cottoid phylogeny using molecular data from 108 species, and obtained 24 linear measurements of four mechanical units (jaws, hyoid, opercular bones, and branchiostegal rays) from micro-CT reconstructions of 44 cottoids and 1 outgroup taxon. We tested for evolutionary correlation and covariation among the four mechanical units using phylogenetically corrected principal component analysis to reduce the dimensionality of measurements for each unit, followed by correlating phylogenetically independent contrasts and computing phylogenetic generalized least squares models from the first principle component axis of each of the four mechanical units. The jaws, opercular bones, and branchiostegal rays show evolutionary integration, but the hyoid is not positively integrated with these units. To examine these results in an ecomorphological context, we used published ecological data in phylogenetic ANOVA models to demonstrate that the jaw is larger in fishes that eat elusive or grasping prey (e.g., prey that can easily escape or cling to the substrate) and that the hyoid is smaller in intertidal and hypoxia-tolerant sculpins. Within Cottoidei, the relatively independent evolution of the hyoid likely has reduced limitations on morphological evolution within the highly morphologically integrated suction feeding and gill ventilatory systems.
Pathogenicity and in vivo Development of Metarhizium rileyi Against Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Larvae
Authors: Liu Shouzhu , Xu Zhimin , Wang Xueying , Zhao Lvquan , Wang Guiqing , Li Xuewen , Zhang Leilei
Published: April 2019

Metarhizium rileyi, a well-known entomopathogenic fungus, could open up new vistas in biological control of insect pests; however, due to its intrinsic shortcomings, such as long pathogenic process, its application is largely limited. To explore which process, the invasion or the following in vivo development, is the main factor responsible for the long pathogenic process, the lethal effect of M. rileyi against Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) was determined by conidial topical application and hyphae body injection, and the host immune response was also monitored. Results showed when larvae were inoculated by conidial topical application, the pathogenicity of M. rileyi varied greatly depending on the larval instar and conidia concentration, and LC50 values ranged from 6.24 × 106 to 6.06 × 109 conidia/ml while LT50 values fluctuated from 4.35 to 9.43 d. However, in vivo study showed when hyphal bodies (Hbs) of M. rileyi were injected into host hemocoel, they would not be recognized by the host’s immune system as invaders. There were no significant differences in the hemocytes and phenoloxidase activity between the infected and control larvae at the initial 44 h, indicated that the fungus was able to successfully avoid the attack from the cellular and humoral immune systems, therefore, it could multiply freely in the hemocoel. The in vivo development time of M. rileyi tended to remain constant for 2–3 d regardless of the initial inoculated numbers. Considering no detectable defense response was observed during in vivo development, it can be concluded that host nonself-recognition system does not respond to the hemolymph borne-Hbs.
Dynamics of Insecticide Resistance in Different Geographical Populations of Chilo suppressalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in China 2016–2018
Authors: Mao Kaikai , Li Wenhao , Liao Xun , Liu Chaoya , Qin Yao , Ren Zhijie , Qin Xueying , Wan Hu , Sheng Feng , Li Jianhong
Published: April 2019

In this study, the sensitivity of 20 field populations of Chilo suppressalis (Walker) from five provinces in China to seven insecticides was evaluated during 2016–2018. The results indicated that 20 field populations of C. suppressalis had evolved moderate to high levels of resistance to triazophos (RR 64.5–461.3) and chlorpyrifos (RR 10.1–125.0). Furthermore, C. suppressalis exhibited low to moderate levels of resistance to abamectin (RR 6.5–76.5) and decreased susceptibility to cyantraniliprole (RR 1.0–34.0). The population collected from Nanchang in Jiangxi Province (JXNC) showed high resistance to chlorantraniliprole (RR 148.3–294.3), and other geographical populations remained susceptible to moderate levels of resistance (RR 1.0–37.5). In contrast, C. suppressalis remained susceptible to low levels of resistance to spinetoram (RR 1.0–6.7) and spinosad (RR 1.0–4.6). Significant correlations were found between the Log LC50 values of chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole, chlorpyrifos and triazophos, as well as cyantraniliprole and chlorpyrifos and triazophos. Similarly, significant correlations were found among abamectin, chlorpyrifos, and triazophos. In addition, a significant correlation was also observed between the activity of the detoxification enzymes and the log LC50 values of chlorantraniliprole, cyantraniliprole, abamectin, chlorpyrifos, and triazophos. The findings provide an important reference for implementing effective resistance management strategies and the development of new insecticides in insect pest control.
Biological Control of Spotted-Wing Drosophila (Diptera: Drosophilidae)—Current and Pending Tactics
Authors: Lee Jana C , Wang Xingeng , Daane Kent M , Hoelmer Kim A , Isaacs Rufus , Sial Ashfaq A , Walton Vaughn M
Published: April 2019

Spotted-wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is originally from Asia, and in the last decade it has become a global economic pest of small fruits and cherries. Growers have expressed strong interest in biological control and other sustainable tactics to reduce reliance on insecticides. Biological control of spotted-wing drosophila has been studied intensively, with over 75 research publications. Here, we are reporting current information on predators, parasitoids, pathogens (fungi, nematodes, bacteria, endosymbiotic bacteria, and viruses), and competitors of spotted-wing drosophila. When relevant for the natural enemy group, the discussion focuses on the impact each natural enemy has been observed to have in the field, how to optimize control, the efficacy of commercial products available, and options that may be available in the near future. Studies are summarized in tables that can be sorted by species, spotted-wing drosophila life stage targeted, outcomes, lab/field trials, and studies that examined residual activity, dose-dependent responses, or other effects.
Mesenchymal–epithelial transition gene amplification and protein overexpression in stage IV pulmonary adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ando Ryota , Fujino Masahiko , Kominami-Kiriyama Ayami , Ito Ai , Koide Tomomi , Ito Masafumi
Published: April 2019

Background

In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), MET gene copy number gain, including gene amplification and chromosome 7 polysomy, is reportedly associated with patient prognosis. Although relationship between MET copy number gain and poor prognosis has been suggested in surgically resected non-small cell lung cancer, the clinical significance of MET copy number gain and protein overexpression in patients with advanced unresectable tumor is unclear.

Methods

We assessed MET copy number gain and protein expression using fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry in 88 patients with clinical stage IV pulmonary adenocarcinoma receiving chemotherapy, immunotherapy or palliative care.

Results

We found MET amplification, polysomy 7 and high MET protein expression in 10.2, 18.2 and 62.5% of 88 cases, respectively. Gene amplification and high protein expression were not significantly associated. A univariate analysis showed that MET amplification-positive patients had increased overall survival (HR 0.335, 95% CI: 0.119–0.945; P = 0.0388). Although it was not statistically significant in the multivariate analysis of the whole cohort, with the removal of patients who did not receive any treatment other than palliative care, MET amplification independently improved the overall survival (HR 0.178, 95% CI: 0.041–0.770; P = 0.0209). Chromosome 7 polysomy and high MET protein expression did not affect the overall survival.

Conclusions

Although MET amplification-positive tumor is considered aggressive, our results suggest that it has a more favorable prognosis than amplification-negative cases in stage IV pulmonary adenocarcinoma with medical treatment.
Reflecting on ‘Hannah’s Choice’: Using the Ethics of Care to Justify Child Participation in End of Life Decision-Making
Authors: Moreton Kirsty L
Published: April 2019

It has been ten years since the case of Hannah Jones—the 12-year-old girl who was permitted to refuse a potentially life-saving heart transplant. In the past decade, there has been some progress within law and policy in respect of children’s participatory rights (UNCRC—Article 12), and a greater understanding of family-centred decision-making. However, the courts still largely maintain their traditional reluctance to find children Gillick competent to refuse medical treatment. In this article, I revisit Hannah’s case through the narrative account provided by Hannah and her mother, to ascertain what lessons can be learnt. I use an Ethics of Care framework specially developed for children in mid-childhood, such as Hannah, to argue for more a creative and holistic approach to child decision-making in healthcare. I conclude that using traditional paradigms is untenable in the context of palliative care and at the end of life, and that the law should be able to accommodate greater, and even determinative, participation of children who are facing their own deaths.
Checkpoint inhibitor failure in hypermutated and mismatch repair-mutated recurrent high-grade gliomas
Authors: Ahmad Haroon , Fadul Camilo E , Schiff David , Purow Benjamin
Published: April 2019

Background

Recurrent high-grade gliomas in adults remain a deadly cancer with median survival of less than 1 year. In the absence of effective agents, immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors has been adopted as a potentially beneficial next step for recurrences with hypermutated or mismatch repair-mutated phenotypes. The rationale for their use, however, is based on case reports and studies with other types of cancer.

Methods

We reviewed 4 cases of hypermutated or mismatch repair-mutated recurrent high-grade gliomas treated with checkpoint inhibitors.

Results

All cases had recurrent high-grade glioma that harbored either a hypermutated phenotype and/or a mismatch repair mutation. Treatment with checkpoint inhibitor therapy resulted in no significant response.

Conclusions

In our experience, hypermutated or mismatch repair-mutated high-grade gliomas in adults do not respond to checkpoint inhibitors alone. This lack of efficacy is in agreement with underwhelming results of clinical trials examining checkpoint inhibitors in high-grade gliomas. The case reports of responders have been in pediatric patients with glioma and are likely a different subtype altogether.
The relationship between citations, downloads and alternative metrics in rheumatology publications: a bibliometric study
Authors: Chen Winnie M Y , Bukhari Marwan , Cockshull Francesca , Galloway James
Published: April 2019

Objective

Scientific journals and authors are frequently judged on ‘impact’. Commonly used traditional metrics are the Impact Factor and H-index. However, both take several years to formulate and have many limitations. Recently, Altmetric—a metric that measures impact in a non-traditional way—has gained popularity. This project aims to describe the relationships between subject matter, citations, downloads and Altmetric within rheumatology.

Methods

Data from publications in Rheumatology were used. Articles published from 2010 to 2015 were reviewed. Data were analysed using Stata 14.2 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA). Correlation between citations, downloads and Altmetric were quantified using linear regression, comparing across disease topics. Relationship between downloads and months since publications were described using negative binomial regression, clustering on individual articles.

Results

A total of 1460 Basic Science and Clinical Science articles were identified, with the number of citations, downloads and Altmetric scores. There were no correlations between disease topic and downloads (R2 = 0.016, P = 0.03), citations (R2 = 0.011, P = 0.29) or Altmetric (R2 = 0.025, P = 0.02). A statistically significant positive association was seen between the number of citations and downloads (R2 = 0.29, P < 0.001). No correlations were seen between Altmetric and downloads (R2 = 0.028, P < 0.001) or citations (R2 = 0.004, P = 0.445).

Conclusion

Disease area did not correlate with any of the metrics compared. Correlations were apparent with clear links between downloads and citations. Altmetric identified different articles as high impact compared with citation or download metrics. In conclusion: tweeting about your research does not appear to influence citations.
Translation and Transforming Activity of a Circular RNA from Human Papillomavirus
Authors: Zhao Jiawei , Lee Eunice E. , Kim Jiwoong , Chamseddin Bahir , Yang Rong , Xie Yang , Zhan Xiaowei , Wang Richard C.
Published: April 2019

Bioinformatics and in vitro studies have revealed that single-stranded circular RNAs (circRNAs), generated through ‘backsplicing,’ occur more extensively than initially appreciated. While the functions of most circRNAs are unknown, binding of microRNAs (miRNA), regulation of splicing and transcription, and translation into proteins have all been demonstrated for specific circRNAs. Virally-derived circRNAs have recently been described in gamma-herpesviruses. Here, we report that oncogenic human papillomaviruses (HPV) generate circRNAs, including ones which encompass the entire coding region of the E7 oncogene (circE7). HPV16 circE7 can be detected by both inverse RT-PCR and Northern blots of HPV16-transformed cell lines. CircE7 is N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modified, preferentially localized to the cytoplasm, and can be translated to produce E7 oncoprotein. Specific disruption of circE7 in CaSki cervical carcinoma cells decreased E7 protein levels, inhibited cell proliferation, and inhibited the ability of the cells to form colonies in soft agar. Analysis of TCGA RNA-seq data demonstrates that HPV-positive cancers have abundant circE7 RNAs. These results provide evidence that virally-derived, protein-encoding circular RNAs have biologically important functions with relevance to the transforming properties of HPV.
Cancer cells resist mechanical destruction in the circulation via RhoA-myosin II axis
Authors: Moose Devon L. , Krog Benjamin L. , Zhao Lei , Kim Tae-Hyung , Williams-Perez Sophia , Burke Gretchen , Rhodes Lillian , Vanneste Marion , Breheny Patrick , Milhem Mohammed , Stipp Christopher S. , Rowat Amy C. , Henry Michael D.
Published: April 2019

During metastasis cancer cells are exposed to potentially destructive hemodynamic forces including fluid shear stress (FSS) whileen routeto distant sites. However, prior work indicates that cancer cells are more resistant to brief pulses of high-level fluid shear stress (FSS)in vitrorelative to non-transformed epithelial cells. Herein we identify a mechanism of FSS resistance in cancer cells, and extend these findings to mouse models of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). We show that cancer cells acutely isolated from primary tumors are resistant to FSS. Our findings demonstrate that cancer cells activate the RhoA-myosin II axis in response to FSS, which protects them from FSS-induced plasma membrane damage. Moreover, we show that the myosin II activity is protective to CTCs in mouse models. Collectively our data indicate that viable CTCs actively resist destruction by hemodynamic forces and are likely to be more mechanically robust than is commonly thought.
Genomic and epigenomic mapping of leptin-responsive neuronal populations involved in body weight regulation
Authors: Inoue Fumitaka , Eckalbar Walter L. , Wang Yi , Murphy Karl K. , Matharu Navneet , Vaisse Christian , Ahituv Nadav
Published: April 2019

Genome wide association studies (GWAS) in obesity have identified a large number of noncoding loci located near genes expressed in the central nervous system. However, due to the difficulties in isolating and characterizing specific neuronal subpopulations, few obesity-associated SNPs have been functionally characterized. Leptin responsive neurons in the hypothalamus are essential in controlling energy homeostasis and body weight. Here, we combine FACS-sorting of leptin-responsive hypothalamic neuron nuclei with genomic and epigenomic approaches (RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq) to generate a comprehensive map of leptin-response specific regulatory elements, several of which overlap obesity-associated GWAS variants. We demonstrate the usefulness of our leptin-response neuron regulome, by functionally characterizing a novel enhancer near Socs3, a leptin response-associated transcription factor. We envision our data to serve as a useful resource and a blueprint for functionally characterizing obesity-associated SNPs in the hypothalamus.
The proton-sensing GPR4 receptor regulates paracellular gap formation and permeability of vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Krewson Elizabeth A. , Sanderlin Edward J. , Marie Mona A. , Velcicky Juraj , Loetscher Pius , Yang Li V.
Published: April 2019

Tissue acidosis can be a consequence of numerous disease states including stroke, myocardial infarction, limb ischemia, and inflammation. Blood vessels existing in the affected tissues are associated with the progression of acidosis-related diseases. However, the mechanisms by which endothelial cells (ECs) lining the affected blood vessels sense and respond to an acidic microenvironment remain largely unclear. We investigated the functional effects of the proton-sensing G protein-coupled receptor GPR4 in acidosis-induced endothelial inflammation. GPR4 is highly expressed in ECs and known to regulate EC inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress responses within acidic microenvironments. Using genetic and pharmacological approaches, we demonstrate that GPR4 activation by acidosis increases EC paracellular gap formation and permeability. We further demonstrate that GPR4-mediated paracellular gap formation is dependent on the Gα12/13signaling pathway. To assess the functional role of GPR4 in the inflammatory responsein vivo, we utilized an acute hindlimb ischemia-reperfusion mouse model. We demonstrate that both genetic deletion and pharmacological inhibition of GPR4 reduce tissue edema, exudate formation, endothelial adhesion molecule expression, and leukocyte infiltration in the inflamed tissue. Collectively, these data suggest GPR4/Gα12/13signaling mediates acidosis-induced endothelial paracellular gap formation and permeability. This study implicates GPR4 as a candidate therapeutic target for the remediation of inflammation and tissue edema.
Simulation-Based protein engineering of R. erythropolis NADH-FMN Oxidoreductase
Authors: Fallahzadeh Ramin , Bambai Bijan , Kamali Nasrin , Esfahani Kasra , Sepahi Abbas Akhavan
Published: April 2019

The sulfur contents of fossil fuels has negative impacts on the environment and human health. The bio-catalytic desulfurization strategies and the biological refinement of the fossil fuels are a cost-effective process compared to chemical desulfurization. Rhodococcus erythropolis IGTS8 is able to extract the organic sulfur of oil as mineral salts by 4S metabolic pathway (i.e. DszA,B,C and D genes). dszD gene codes a NADH:FMN oxidoreductase delivering reducing equivalent to DszA, DszB, and DszC to remove sulfur from heterocyclic molecules. In this study, we sought to improve DszD specificity by side-direct mutagenesis based on prediction of the DszD structure, molecular docking, and molecular dynamic simulation. Accordingly, the cloning, expression and activity assay of best candidates (A79I and A79N) were performed. Our results demonstrated the important role of position 79 in enzyme activity, the A79I and A79N mutants are able to increase the enzyme activity 3.4 and 5.2 fold compared to wild-type.
Is amphistomy an adaptation to high light? Optimality models of stomatal traits along light gradients
Authors: Muir Christopher D.
Published: April 2019

Stomata regulate the supply of CO2for photosynthesis and the rate of water loss out of the leaf. The presence of stomata on both leaf surfaces, termed amphistomy, increases photosynthetic rate, is common in plants from high light habitats, and rare otherwise. In this study I use optimality models based on leaf energy budget and photosynthetic models to ask why amphistomy is common in high light habitats. I developed an R packageleafoptimizerto solve for stomatal traits that optimally balance carbon gain with water loss in a given environment. The model predicts that amphistomy is common in high light because its marginal effect on carbon gain is greater than in the shade, but only if the costs of amphistomy are also lower under high light than in the shade. More generally, covariation between costs and benefits may explain why stomatal and other traits form discrete phenotypic clusters.
Quantitative measurements of chromatin modification dynamics during zygotic genome activation
Authors: Sato Yuko , Hilbert Lennart , Oda Haruka , Wan Yinan , Heddleston John M. , Chew Teng-Leong , Zaburdaev Vasily , Keller Philipp , Lionnet Timothee , Vastenhouw Nadine , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: April 2019

Histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs) are key gene expression regulators, but their rapid dynamics during development remain difficult to capture. We describe an approach that images fluorescent antibody fragments to quantify PTM enrichment and active transcription at defined loci during zygotic genome activation in living zebrafish embryos. The technique reveals a drastic increase in histone H3 Lys27 acetylation (H3K27ac) before genome activation both at a specific locus and globally.