bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Philosophy, Famine Relief, and the Skeptical Challenge From Disagreement
Authors: Seipel Peter
Published: October 2014

Disagreement has been grist to the mills of sceptics throughout the history of philosophy. Recently, though, some philosophers have argued that widespread philosophical disagreement supports a broad scepticism about philosophy itself. In this paper, I argue that the task for sceptics of philosophy is considerably more complex than commonly thought. The mere fact that philosophical methods fail to generate true majority views is not enough to support the sceptical challenge from disagreement. To avoid demanding something that human reasoning cannot supply, sceptics must show that philosophers have sufficient overlap to resolve their disagreements in particular concrete cases.
Innovation in Africa: Why Institutions Matter
Authors: Oluwatobi Stephen , Efobi Uchenna , Olurinola Isaiah , Alege Philip
Published: October 2014

Given the role that innovation plays as an engine for economic development, we examined the enabling factor of institutions in Africa. Particularly, attention was given to determining the equivalent effects of institutional development on innovation. A sample of 40 African countries over the period 1996‐2012 was employed, and our baseline equation was estimated using the system generalised method of moments (SGMM) estimation technique. The empirical result reveals that government effectiveness and regulatory quality are two institutional measures that have the most equivalent impact on innovation. The extent of impact is an indication that institutions matter, especially when considering innovation in Africa. Therefore, to advance the rate of innovation in Africa, improving frameworks to drive regulations and enhance government effectiveness is a necessary instrument. Having these in place, Africa will be able to catch up with advanced economies.
The emotional male victim: Effects of presentation mode on judged credibility
Authors: Landström Sara , Ask Karl , Sommar Charlotte
Published: October 2014

The emotional victim effect (EVE, i.e., that the emotionality of a victim's demeanor affects perceived credibility) is a robust research finding for female victims of rape but much less explored for other types of victims and crimes. In this article, we investigate the EVE with a male assault complainant. In addition, we vary the presentation mode via which the complainant is shown to the assessors. A sample of law students (N = 81) participated in an experiment where they viewed and assessed credibility of a male complainant who appeared either live or on video. The complainant behaved either in an emotional or a neutral manner. Result showed that the presentation mode but not the EVE affected the assessors' credibility assessments: The complainant was perceived as more truthful when communicating live, as opposed to via video. Practical implications, as well as the generality of the EVE, are discussed.
Fabrication of polydimethylsiloxane microlens arrays on a plastic film by proton beam writing
Authors: Kato Hijiri , Takahashi Junichi , Nishikawa Hiroyuki
Published: October 2014

This paper reports the fabrication of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microlens arrays (MLAs) on a 5–13 μm-thick PDMS layer on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films using proton beam writing (PBW). The PBW is performed with a focused 1.3 μm beam with an energy of 1.0 MeV. The sensitivity of the PDMS layer on an indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated PET film is improved compared to that on a bare PET film. The arrays of the PDMS microlenses with diameters of 20 μm and a height of 4.5 μm are fabricated by changing the proton beam fluence. The ITO layer on the PET film provides substrate conductivity for PDMS and the transparency required for flexible optofluidic devices. The patterning of 35 × 35 MLAs is demonstrated in an area of 1.0 × 1.0 mm2 within 16 min. The PDMS MLAs can be transferred to a Ni mold by electroplating and are then duplicated by ultraviolet imprint lithography on PET films.
Low Intensity Aerobic Exercise and Oxidative Stress Markers in Older Adults
Authors: Bouzid Mohamed A. , Hammouda Omar , Matran Régis , Robin Sophie , Fabre Claudine
Published: October 2014

This comparative study examined the effects of regular low intensity aerobic exercise on oxidative stress markers in older adults. The study was carried out on 15 sedentary subjects (age: 65.1 ± 3.5 years) versus 18 subjects performing fitness exercises (age: 65.8 ± 3.3 years). Before and after an incremental exercise test, oxidative stress markers were assessed. Superoxide dismutase was higher at rest and at the recovery for the physically active subjects compared with sedentary subjects (p < .05). At recovery, glutathione peroxidase and α -Tocopherol increased significantly above the resting values only in the active group (p < .05). Malondialdehyde had increased in both groups (p < .01), associated with a higher level in the sedentary group (p < .05) at the recovery. These data suggest that low intensity aerobic exercise may be useful to prevent the decline of antioxidants linked with aging.
Objectively Measured Sedentary Time and its Association With Physical Function in Older Adults
Authors: Davis Mark G. , Fox Kenneth R. , Stathi Afroditi , Trayers Tanya , Thompson Janice L. , Cooper Ashley R.
Published: October 2014

The relationship of objectively measured sedentary time (ST), frequency of breaks in ST, and lower extremity function (LEF) was investigated in a diverse sample aged ≥ 70 years (n = 217). Physical activity (PA) was assessed by accelerometry deriving moderate-vigorous PA (MVPA) minutes per registered hour (MVPA min · hr−1), registered ST (ST min · hr−1), and breaks in ST min · hr−1 (breaks · hr−1). LEF was assessed by the Short Physical Performance Battery. Univariate associations with overall LEF were MVPA (r = .523), ST (r = −.499), and breaks (r = .389). Adjusted linear regression including MVPA min · hr−1, ST min · hr−1, and breaks · hr−1 explained 41.5% of LEF variance. Each additional break · hr−1 was associated with 0.58 point increase in LEF. Breaks and MVPA had strongest independent associations with LEF. Promoting regular breaks might be useful in maintaining or increasing LEF and later life independence. This novel finding is important for the design of effective lifestyle interventions targeting older adults.
The Effect of Ego Depletion on Sprint Start Reaction Time
Authors: Englert Chris , Bertrams Alex
Published: October 2014

In the current study, we consider that optimal sprint start performance requires the self-control of responses. Therefore, start performance should depend on athletes’ self-control strength. We assumed that momentary depletion of self-control strength (ego depletion) would either speed up or slow down the initiation of a sprint start, where an initiation that was sped up would carry the increased risk of a false start. Applying a mixed between- (depletion vs. nondepletion) and within- (before vs. after manipulation of depletion) subjects design, we tested the start reaction times of 37 sport students. We found that participants’ start reaction times decelerated after finishing a depleting task, whereas it remained constant in the nondepletion condition. These results indicate that sprint start performance can be impaired by unrelated preceding actions that lower momentary self-control strength. We discuss practical implications in terms of optimizing sprint starts and related overall sprint performance.
Effect of a High-Intensity Intermittent-Exercise Protocol on Neurocognitive Function in Healthy Adults: Implications for Return-to-Play Management After Sport-Related Concussion
Authors: Whyte Enda F. , Gibbons Nicola , Kerr Grainne , Moran Kieran A.
Published: October 2014

Context: Determination of return to play (RTP) after sport-related concussion (SRC) is critical given the potential consequences of premature RTP. Current RTP guidelines may not identify persistent exercise-induced neurocognitive deficits in asymptomatic athletes after SRC. Therefore, postexercise neurocognitive testing has been recommended to further inform RTP determination. To implement this recommendation, the effect of exercise on neurocognitive function in healthy athletes should be understood. Objective: To examine the acute effects of a high-intensity intermittent-exercise protocol (HIIP) on neurocognitive function assessed by the Symbol Digits Modality Test (SDMT) and Stroop Interference Test. Design: Cohort study. Setting: University laboratory. Participants 40 healthy male athletes (age 21.25 ± 1.29 y, education 16.95 ± 1.37 y). Intervention: Each participant completed the SDMT and Stroop Interference Test at baseline and after random allocation to a condition (HIIP vs control). A mixed between-within-subjects ANOVA assessed time- (pre- vs postcondition) -by-condition interaction effects. Main Outcome Measures: SDMT and Stroop Interference Test scores. Results: There was a significant time-by-condition interaction effect (P < .001, η2 = .364) for the Stroop Interference Test scores, indicating that the HIIP group scored significantly lower (56.05 ± 9.34) postcondition than the control group (66.39 ± 19.6). There was no significant time-by-condition effect (P = .997, η2 < .001) for the SDMT, indicating that there was no difference between SDMT scores for the HIIP and control groups (59.95 ± 10.7 vs 58.56 ± 14.02). Conclusions: In healthy athletes, the HIIP results in a reduction in neurocognitive function as assessed by the Stroop Interference Test, with no effect on function as assessed by the SDMT. Testing should also be considered after high-intensity exercise in determining RTP decisions for athletes after SRC in conjunction with the existing recommended RTP protocol. These results may provide an initial reference point for future research investigating the effects of an HIIP on the neurocognitive function of athletes recovering from SRC.
Reliability of the Active-Knee-Extension and Straight-Leg-Raise Tests in Subjects With Flexibility Deficits
Authors: Neto Tiago , Jacobsohn Lia , Carita Ana I. , Oliveira Raul
Published: October 2014

Context: The active-knee-extension test (AKE) and the straight-leg-raise test (SLR) are widely used for flexibility assessment. A number of investigations have tested the reliability of these measures, especially the AKE. However, in most studies, the sample involved subjects with normal flexibility. In addition, few studies have determined the standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable difference (MDD), which can provide complementary and more clinically relevant information than the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) alone. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the AKE and LSR intrarater (test-retest) reliability in subjects with flexibility deficits, as well as the correlation between the 2 tests. Design: Reliability study. Setting: Academic laboratory. Subjects: 102 recreationally active participants (48 male, 54 female) with no injury to the lower limbs and with flexibility deficits in the hamstrings muscle group. Main Outcomes: Intrarater reliability was determined using the ICC, complemented by the SEM and MDD. Measures: All participants performed, in each lower limb, 2 trials of the AKE and the SLR. Results: The ICC values found for AKE and SLR tests were, respectively, .87-.94 and .93-.97. The values for SEM were low for both tests (2.6-2.9° for AKE, 2.2-2.6° for SLR), as well as the calculated MDD (7-8° for AKE, 6-7° for SLR). A moderate to strong, and significant, correlation between AKE and SLR was determined for the dominant limb (r = .71) and the nondominant limb (r = .67). Conclusions: These findings suggest that both AKE and SLR have excellent intrarater reliability. The SEMs and MDDs recorded are also very encouraging for the use of these tests in subjects with flexibility deficits.
Human cognitive aging:
Corriger la fortune?
Authors: Lindenberger Ulman
Published: October 2014

Human cognitive aging differs between and is malleable within individuals. In the absence of a strong genetic program, it is open to a host of hazards, such as vascular conditions, metabolic syndrome, and chronic stress, but also open to protective and enhancing factors, such as experience-dependent cognitive plasticity. Longitudinal studies suggest that leading an intellectually challenging, physically active, and socially engaged life may mitigate losses and consolidate gains. Interventions help to identify contexts and mechanisms of successful cognitive aging and give science and society a hint about what would be possible if conditions were different.
Language in the aging brain: The network dynamics of cognitive decline and preservation
Authors: Shafto Meredith A. , Tyler Lorraine K.
Published: October 2014

Language is a crucial and complex lifelong faculty, underpinned by dynamic interactions within and between specialized brain networks. Whereas normal aging impairs specific aspects of language production, most core language processes are robust to brain aging. We review recent behavioral and neuroimaging evidence showing that language systems remain largely stable across the life span and that both younger and older adults depend on dynamic neural responses to linguistic demands. Although some aspects of network dynamics change with age, there is no consistent evidence that core language processes are underpinned by different neural networks in younger and older adults.
Comment on “Control profiles of complex networks”
Authors: Campbell Colin , Shea Katriona , Albert Réka
Published: October 2014

Ruths and Ruths (Reports, 21 March 2014, p. 1373) find that existing synthetic random network models fail to generate control profiles that match those found in real network models. Here, we show that a straightforward extension to the Barabási-Albert model allows the control profile to be “tuned” across the control profile space, permitting more meaningful control profile analyses of real networks.
Response to Comment on “Control profiles of complex networks”
Authors: Ruths Justin , Ruths Derek
Published: October 2014

Campbell, Shea, and Albert propose an adaptation of the Barabási-Albert model of network formation that permits a level of tuning of the control profiles of these networks. We point out some limitations and generalizations of this method as well as highlight opportunities for future work to refine formation mechanisms to provide control profile tuning in synthetic networks.
A Y-chromosome–encoded small RNA acts as a sex determinant in persimmons
Authors: Akagi Takashi , Henry Isabelle M. , Tao Ryutaro , Comai Luca
Published: October 2014

Y male plants affect female development

Although most plants have both male and female organs within a single flower, some produce separate male and female plants. In some cases, such as persimmons, males are determined by a Y chromosome. Akagi
et al.
examined the gene transcript differences between male and female persimmons. A gene on the Y chromosome regulated a non–sex chromosome–linked small RNA that suppresses female organ development. This small RNA was localized to male flowers and could affect female development in other plant species. The evolutionary history of these genes suggests that they are tied to the origin of the separation of sexes in the persimmon family.

Science
, this issue p.
646
Low Mid-Proterozoic atmospheric oxygen levels and the delayed rise of animals
Authors: Planavsky Noah J. , Reinhard Christopher T. , Wang Xiangli , Thomson Danielle , McGoldrick Peter , Rainbird Robert H. , Johnson Thomas , Fischer Woodward W. , Lyons Timothy W.
Published: October 2014

Low oxygen limited the rise of animals

Oxygen levels in Earth's early atmosphere had an important influence on the evolution of complex life. Planavsky
et al.
analyzed the isotopic signature of chromium in sedimentary rocks from across the globe—a proxy for past oxygen levels. Oxygen levels in the mid-Proterozoic (1.6 billion to 900 million years ago) were very low: less than 0.1% of the modern atmosphere. These low levels were probably below the minimum oxygen requirements for the earliest animals, delaying their emergence and diversification.

Science
, this issue p.
635
Adolescent mental health—Opportunity and obligation
Authors: Lee Francis S. , Heimer Hakon , Giedd Jay N. , Lein Edward S , Šestan Nenad , Weinberger Daniel R. , Casey B. J.
Published: October 2014

Emerging neuroscience offers hope for treatments
Functional organization of synaptic connections in the neocortex
Authors: Ko Ho
Published: October 2014

Neural networks and computation
Complete pairing not needed
Authors: Patel Dinshaw J.
Published: October 2014

Structures of microRNA-mRNA–human Argonaute reveal where and how intermolecular interactions are specified

[Also see Research Article by

Schirle
et al.

]
Starting young
Authors: Underwood Emily
Published: October 2014

Decades-old IQ test records from Scottish children have opened a unique window on how the brain ages.
Evaluation of Carbapenemase Screening and Confirmation Tests with Enterobacteriaceae and Development of a Practical Diagnostic Algorithm
Authors: Maurer Florian P. , Castelberg Claudio , Quiblier Chantal , Bloemberg Guido V. , Hombach Michael
Published: October 2014

Reliable identification of carbapenemase-producing members of the family
Enterobacteriaceae
is necessary to limit their spread. This study aimed to develop a diagnostic flow chart using phenotypic screening and confirmation tests that is suitable for implementation in different types of clinical laboratories. A total of 334 clinical
Enterobacteriaceae
isolates genetically characterized with respect to carbapenemase, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL), and AmpC genes were analyzed. A total of 142/334 isolates (42.2%) were suspected of carbapenemase production, i.e., intermediate or resistant to ertapenem (ETP) and/or meropenem (MEM) and/or imipenem (IPM) according to EUCAST clinical breakpoints (CBPs). A group of 193/334 isolates (57.8%) showing susceptibility to ETP, MEM, and IPM was considered the negative-control group in this study. CLSI and EUCAST carbapenem CBPs and the new EUCAST MEM screening cutoff were evaluated as screening parameters. ETP, MEM, and IPM with or without aminophenylboronic acid (APBA) or EDTA combined-disk tests (CDTs) and the Carba NP-II test were evaluated as confirmation assays. EUCAST temocillin cutoffs were evaluated for OXA-48 detection. The EUCAST MEM screening cutoff (<25 mm) showed a sensitivity of 100%. The ETP APBA CDT on Mueller-Hinton agar containing cloxacillin (MH-CLX) displayed 100% sensitivity and specificity for class A carbapenemase confirmation. ETP and MEM EDTA CDTs showed 100% sensitivity and specificity for class B carbapenemases. Temocillin zone diameters/MIC testing on MH-CLX was highly specific for OXA-48 producers. The overall sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the Carba NP-II test were 78.9, 100, 100, and 98.7%, respectively. Combining the EUCAST MEM carbapenemase screening cutoff (<25 mm), ETP (or MEM), APBA, and EDTA CDTs, and temocillin disk diffusion on MH-CLX promises excellent performance for carbapenemase detection.
Biochemical Characteristics, Adhesion, and Cytotoxicity of Environmental and Clinical Isolates of Herbaspirillum spp
Authors: Marques Ana C. Q. , Paludo Katia S. , Dallagassa Cibelle B. , Surek Monica , Pedrosa Fábio O. , Souza Emanuel M. , Cruz Leonardo M. , LiPuma John J. , Zanata Sílvio M. , Rego Fabiane G. M. , Fadel-Picheth Cyntia M. T.
Published: October 2014

Herbaspirillum
bacteria are best known as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria but have also been recovered from clinical samples. Here, biochemical tests, matrix-assisted laser deionization–time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, adherence, and cytotoxicity to eukaryotic cells were used to compare clinical and environmental isolates of
Herbaspirillum
spp. Discrete biochemical differences were observed between human and environmental strains. All strains adhered to HeLa cells at low densities, and cytotoxic effects were discrete, supporting the view that
Herbaspirillum
bacteria are opportunists with low virulence potential.
Serological Misdiagnosis of Acute Liver Failure Associated with Echovirus 25 Due to Immunological Similarities to Hepatitis A Virus and Prozone Effect
Authors: Wollersheim Susan K. , Humphries Romney M. , Cherry James D. , Krogstad Paul
Published: October 2014

We describe a case of acute liver failure caused by echovirus 25 (E25) in a previously healthy 2-year-old boy. Initial serological studies were consistent with hepatitis A virus (HAV), with prozone phenomenon. The similarity of E25 to HAV may obscure accurate diagnosis in some cases of hepatitis.
Canine Distemper Virus Envelope Protein Interactions Modulated by Hydrophobic Residues in the Fusion Protein Globular Head
Authors: Avila Mislay , Khosravi Mojtaba , Alves Lisa , Ader-Ebert Nadine , Bringolf Fanny , Zurbriggen Andreas , Plemper Richard K. , Plattet Philippe
Published: October 2014

Membrane fusion for morbillivirus cell entry relies on critical interactions between the viral fusion (F) and attachment (H) envelope glycoproteins. Through extensive mutagenesis of an F cavity recently proposed to contribute to F's interaction with the H protein, we identified two neighboring hydrophobic residues responsible for severe F-to-H binding and fusion-triggering deficiencies when they were mutated in combination. Since both residues reside on one side of the F cavity, the data suggest that H binds the F globular head domain sideways.
The Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) HBx Protein Activates AKT To Simultaneously Regulate HBV Replication and Hepatocyte Survival
Authors: Rawat Siddhartha , Bouchard Michael J.
Published: October 2014

Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a risk factor for developing liver diseases such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBx is a multifunctional protein encoded by the HBV genome; HBx stimulates HBV replication and is thought to play an important role in the development of HBV-associated HCC. HBx can activate the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway in some cell lines; however, whether HBx regulates PI3K/AKT signaling in normal hepatocytes has not been evaluated. In studies described here, we assessed HBx activation of PI3K/AKT signaling in an
ex vivo
model of cultured primary hepatocytes and determined how this HBx activity affects HBV replication. We report that HBx activates AKT in primary hepatocytes and that the activation of AKT decreases HBV replication and HBV mRNA and core protein levels. We show that the transcription factor hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) is a target of HBx-regulated AKT, and we link HNF4α to HBx-regulated AKT modulation of HBV transcription and replication. Although we and others have shown that HBx stimulates and is likely required for HBV replication, we now report that HBx also activates signals that can diminish the overall level of HBV replication. While this may seem counterintuitive, we show that an important effect of HBx activation of AKT is inhibition of apoptosis. Consequently, our studies suggest that HBx balances HBV replication and cell survival by stimulating signaling pathways that enhance hepatocyte survival at the expense of higher levels of HBV replication.

IMPORTANCE
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a common cause of the development of liver cancer. Regulation of cell signaling pathways by the HBV HBx protein is thought to influence the development of HBV-associated liver cancer. HBx stimulates, and may be essential for, HBV replication. We show that HBx activates AKT in hepatocytes to reduce HBV replication. While this seems contradictory to an essential role of HBx during HBV replication, HBx activation of AKT inhibits hepatocyte apoptosis, and this may facilitate persistent, noncytopathic HBV replication. AKT regulates HBV replication by reducing the activity of the transcription factor hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α). HBx activation of AKT may contribute to the development of liver cancer by facilitating persistent HBV replication, augmenting the dedifferentiation of hepatocytes by inhibiting HNF4α functions, and activating AKT-regulated oncogenic pathways. AKT-regulated factors may provide therapeutic targets for inhibiting HBV replication and the development of HBV-associated liver cancer.
Enhanced Transgene Expression from Recombinant Single-Stranded D-Sequence-Substituted Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors in Human Cell Lines
In Vitro
and in Murine Hepatocytes
In Vivo
Authors: Ling Chen , Wang Yuan , Lu Yuan , Wang Lina , Jayandharan Giridhara R. , Aslanidi George V. , Li Baozheng , Cheng Binbin , Ma Wenqin , Lentz Thomas , Ling Changquan , Xiao Xiao , Samulski R. Jude , Muzyczka Nicholas , Srivastava Arun
Published: October 2014

We have previously reported that the removal of a 20-nucleotide sequence, termed the D sequence, from both ends of the inverted terminal repeats (ITRs) in the adeno-associated virus serotype 2 (AAV2) genome significantly impairs rescue, replication, and encapsidation of the viral genomes (X. S. Wang, S. Ponnazhagan, and A. Srivastava, J Mol Biol 250:573–580, 1995; X. S. Wang, S. Ponnazhagan, and A. Srivastava, J Virol 70:1668–1677, 1996). Here we describe that replacement of only one D sequence in either ITR restores each of these functions, but DNA strands of only single polarity are encapsidated in mature progeny virions. Since most commonly used recombinant AAV vectors contain a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), which is transcriptionally inactive, efficient transgene expression from AAV vectors is dependent upon viral second-strand DNA synthesis. We have also identified a transcription suppressor sequence in one of the D sequences, which shares homology with the binding site for the cellular NF-κB-repressing factor (NRF). The removal of this D sequence from, and replacement with a sequence containing putative binding sites for transcription factors in, single-stranded AAV (ssAAV) vectors significantly augments transgene expression both in human cell lines
in vitro
and in murine hepatocytes
in vivo
. The development of these genome-modified ssAAV vectors has implications not only for the basic biology of AAV but also for the optimal use of these vectors in human gene therapy.

IMPORTANCE
The results of the studies described here not only have provided novel insights into some of the critical steps in the life cycle of a human virus, the adeno-associated virus (AAV), that causes no known disease but have also led to the development of novel recombinant AAV vectors which are more efficient in allowing increased levels of gene expression. Thus, these studies have significant implications for the potential use of these novel AAV vectors in human gene therapy.
Impact and Regulation of Lambda Interferon Response in Human Metapneumovirus Infection
Authors: Baños-Lara Ma. Del Rocío , Harvey Lindsey , Mendoza Alexander , Simms Dawn , Chouljenko Vladimir N. , Wakamatsu Nobuko , Kousoulas K. Gus , Guerrero-Plata Antonieta
Published: October 2014

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a respiratory paramyxovirus that is distributed worldwide and induces significant airway morbidity. Despite the relevance of hMPV as a pathogen, many aspects of the immune response to this virus are still largely unknown. In this report, we focus on the antiviral immune response, which is critical for viral clearance and disease resolution. Usingin vitroandin vivosystems, we show that hMPV is able to induce expression of lambda interferon 1 (IFN-λ1), IFN-λ2, IFN-λ3, and IFN-λ4. The induction of IFN-λ expression by hMPV was dependent on interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF-7) expression but not on IRF-3 expression. Treatment of hMPV-infected mice with IFN-λ reduced the disease severity, lung viral titer, and inflammatory response in the lung. Moreover, the IFN-λ response induced by the virus was regulated by the expression of the hMPV G protein. These results show that type III interferons (IFN-λs) play a critical protective role in hMPV infection.

IMPORTANCEHuman metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a pathogen of worldwide importance. Despite the relevance of hMPV as a pathogen, critical aspects of the immune response induced by this virus remain unidentified. Interferons (IFNs), including IFN-λ, the newest addition to the interferon family, constitute an indispensable part of the innate immune response. Here, we demonstrated that IFN-λ exhibited a protective role in hMPV infectionin vitroand in an experimental mouse model of infection.
Determining universal processes related to best outcome in emergency abdominal surgery: a multicentre, international, prospective cohort study
Authors: Bhangu Aneel , Fitzgerald J Edward , Fergusson Stuart , Khatri Chetan , Holmer Hampus , Søreide Kjetil , Harrison Ewen M
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Emergency abdominal surgery outcomes represent an internationally important marker of healthcare quality and capacity. In this study, a novel approach to investigating global surgical outcomes is proposed, involving collaborative methodology using ‘snapshot’ clinical data collection over a 2-week period. The primary aim is to identify internationally relevant, modifiable surgical practices (in terms of modifiable process, equipment and clinical management) associated with best care for emergency abdominal surgery.

Methods and analysis

This is a multicentre, international, prospective cohort study. Any hospital in the world performing acute surgery can participate, and any patient undergoing emergency intraperitoneal surgery is eligible to enter the study. Centres will collect observational data on patients for a 14-day period during a 5-month window and required data points will be limited to ensure practicality for collaborators collecting data. The primary outcome measure is the 24 h perioperative mortality, with 30-day perioperative mortality as a secondary outcome measure. During registration, participants will undertake a survey of available resources and capacity based on the WHO Tool for Situational Analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

The study will not affect clinical care and has therefore been classified as an audit by the South East Scotland Research Ethics Service in Edinburgh, Scotland. Baseline outcome measurement in relation to emergency abdominal surgery has not yet been undertaken at an international level and will provide a useful indicator of surgical capacity and the modifiable factors that influence this. This novel methodological approach will facilitate delivery of a multicentre study at a global level, in addition to building international audit and research capacity.

Trial registration number

The study has been registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier:NCT02179112).
Ansatz approach solution of the Duffin–Kemmer–Petiau equation for spin-1 particles with position-dependent mass in the presence of Kratzer-type potential
Authors: Bahar M.K. , Yasuk F.
Published: October 2014

The relativistic Duffin–Kemmer–Petiau equation for relativistic spin-1 particles with position-dependent mass in the presence of a vector Kratzer-type potential and the absence of a scalar potential is studied analytically. The energy eigenvalues and corresponding eigenfunctions are obtained using the wave function ansatz approach.
The one-loop θ2 corrections of gauge boson propagator in the noncommutative scalar U(1) theory
Authors: Wang Weijian , Huang Jia-Hui
Published: October 2014

In this paper, the quantum corrections of gauge field propagator are investigated in the noncommutative (NC) scalar U(1) gauge theory with Seiberg–Witten map (SWM) method. We focus on the simplest case where the gauge boson couples with a massless complex scalar field. The one-loop divergent corrections at θ2-order are calculated using the background field method. It is found that the divergences can be absorbed by making field redefinitions, leading to a good renormalizability at θ2-order.
A general method for deriving vector potentials produced by knotted solenoids
Authors: Sreedhar V. V.
Published: October 2014

A general method for deriving exact expressions for vector potentials produced by arbitrarily knotted solenoids is presented. It consists of using simple physics ideas from magnetostatics to evaluate the magnetic field in a surrogate problem. The latter is obtained by modeling the knot with wire segments carrying steady currents on a cubical lattice. The expressions for a 31 (trefoil) and a 41 (figure-eight) knot are explicitly worked out. The results are of some importance in the study of the Aharonov–Bohm effect generalized to a situation in which charged particles moving through force-free regions are scattered by fluxes confined to the interior of knotted impenetrable tubes.
Why a magnetized quantum wire can act as an optical amplifier: a short survey
Authors: Kushwaha Manvir S.
Published: October 2014

This paper reviews the fundamental issues associated with the magnetoplasmon excitations investigated in a semiconducting quantum wire characterized by a harmonic confining potential and subjected to an applied (perpendicular) magnetic field. We embark on the charge–density excitations in a two-subband model within the framework of Bohm–Pines's random-phase approximation. The problem involves two length scales: [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], which characterize the strengths of the confinement and the magnetic field (B). Essentially, we focus on the device aspects of the intersubband collective (magnetoroton) excitation, which observes a negative group velocity between maxon and roton. Consequently, it leads to tachyon-like (superluminal) behavior without one's having to introduce the negative energies. Existence of the negative group velocity is a clear manifestation of a medium with population inversion brought about due to a metastable state caused by the magnetic field that satisfies the condition B > B th ; B th being the threshold value below which the magnetoroton does not exist. The interest in negative group velocity is based on anomalous dispersion in a medium with inverted population, so that gain instead of absorption occurs at the frequencies of interest. A medium with an inverted population has the remarkable ability of amplifying a small optical signal of definite wavelength, i.e. it can serve as an active laser medium. An extensive scrutiny of the gain coefficient suggests an interesting and important application: The electronic device designed on the basis of such magnetoroton modes can act as an optical amplifier. Examining the magnetic field dependence of the life-time of magnetorotons leads us to infer that relatively smaller magnetic fields are optimal.
Strategic Reorganization in Multi-Agent Systems: Inspired by Intelligent Human Organizations
Authors: Mahani Maryamossadat N. , Agah Arvin
Published: October 2014

The field of organizational design in multi-agent systems is still in need of powerful tools and methods for enabling effective design, control, and transformation of organizations of different kinds. In this work, we address the problem of reorganization in a distributed problem solving model as a typical multi-agent system application. We look into adaptation of concepts and theories from social organization theory. In particular, we get insights from Schwaninger's model of Intelligent Human Organizations. To this goal, we implement and utilize a multi-level organizational control model which uses a strategic management and an operative management layer to exert organizational control and also to make interactions between these two levels of control possible. Experimental evaluations are performed using a modified model of pursuit game. The results indicate that the proposed model allows the system to stay ahead of the organizational change, resulting in performance improvements, despite the additional costs associated to reorganization.
Discotic liquid crystals of transition metal complexes 51: Synthesis and mesomorphism of flat-pumpkin-shaped phthalocyanine-fullerene dyads
Authors: Yoshioka Miho , Ohta Kazuchika , Miwa Yohei , Kutsumizu Shoichi , Yasutake Mikio
Published: October 2014

We have synthesized a novel type of donor–acceptor liquid crystalline material, phthalocyanine-fullerene ( Pc - C 60) dyad, [m,p,m′-( C 14 O )3 PhO ]6 PcCu - C 60 (7), and the Pc precursors, [m,p,m′-( C 14 O )3 PhO ]6 PcCu - OFBA (6) and [m,p,m′-( C 14 O )3 PhO ]6 PcCu - OH (5), and established their mesomorphism by using a polarizing optical microscope, a differential scanning calorimeter and a small angle X-ray diffractometer. Very interestingly, their corresponding previous parent Pc derivative, [m,p,m′-( C 14 O )3 PhO ]8 PcCu (4), shows a very wide temperature region ca. 90°C of a bicontinuous Cub(Pn3m) mesophase, whereas the present children Pc precursors (5 and 6) and Pc- C 60 dyad 7 show not the Cub mesophase but a Colho mesophase. It is also noteworthy that the staking distance in the Colho mesophase of the Pc- C 60 dyad 7was a very big value of ca. 9.1 Å, which is the biggest in discotic liquid crystals to our best knowledge. It may be originated from the biggest excluded volume caused by thermal fluctuation of peripheral long alkoxy chains at m, m′-positions. The excluded volume caused by thermal fluctuation of the peripheral long chains is so big that the molecular shape of the Pc derivative 4 and the Pc- C 60 dyad 7 very resembles a flat pumpkin.
Mechanism of the migration of gold in desert regolith cover over a concealed gold deposit
Authors: Ye Rong , Zhang Bimin , Wang Yong
Published: October 2014

The mechanisms in transferring metals associated with mineralization upwards through transported cover are poorly understood. Geogas is thought to be an important medium in the process of vertical migration of elements. In this paper, metal particles in gases and soils overlying a concealed gold ore body at the Jinwozi gold field, Xinjiang, northwestern China were collected and observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study gold occurrences. In addition, Geogas and soil surveys were conducted along traverse lines across the ‘210’ gold deposit concealed by several to tens of meters of regolith cover. Soils were collected in a regolith profile to further study the horizontal and vertical distribution of gold. Geochemical analyses using ‘Geogas’ and soil methods show Au, Ag and Hg anomalies occur over the ‘210’ gold ore body. A drilled profile revealed a ‘C-shaped’ distribution pattern of mobile gold in the regolith. Gold-copper and copper-bismuth nanoparticles were detected by TEM in the Geogas and soil samples. The results indicated that nanoparticles sourced from the underlying concealed ore bodies are likely to have been the cause of the surface geochemical anomalies. The particles could travel upwards to the surface, during which the Geogas and soil anomalies are developed in pore space and in soil, which has a large surface area. At the surface, some of the particles are retained in the Geogas, while others are captured by soil constituents such as clays, iron and manganese oxides, which create the ‘C-shaped’ distribution patterns of the mobile gold in vertical profiles.
Transporters involved in renal excretion of N-carbamoylglutamate, an orphan drug to treat inborn n-acetylglutamate synthase deficiency
Authors: Schwob Elisabeth , Hagos Yohannes , Burckhardt Gerhard , Burckhardt Birgitta C.
Published: October 2014

Inborn defects in N-acetylglutamate (NAG) synthase (NAGS) cause a reduction of NAG, an essential cofactor for the initiation of the urea cycle. As a consequence, blood ammonium concentrations are elevated, leading to severe neurological disorders. The orphan drug N-carbamoylglutamate (NCG; Carbaglu), efficiently overcomes NAGS deficiency. However, not much is known about the transporters involved in the uptake, distribution, and elimination of the divalent organic anion NCG. Organic anion-transporting polypeptides (OATPs) as well as organic anion transporters (OATs) working in cooperation with sodium dicarboxylate cotransporter 3 (NaDC3) accept a wide variety of structurally unrelated drugs. To test for possible interactions with OATPs and OATs, the impact of NCG on these transporters in stably transfected human embryonic kidney-293 cells was measured. The two-electrode voltage-clamp technique was used to monitor NCG-mediated currents in Xenopus laevis oocytes that expressed NaDC3. Neither OATPs nor OAT2 and OAT3 interacted with NCG, but OAT1 transported NCG. In addition, NCG was identified as a high-affinity substrate of NaDC3. Preincubation of OAT4-transfected human embryonic kidney-293 cells with NCG showed an increased uptake of estrone sulfate, the reference substrate of OAT4, indicating efflux of NCG by OAT4. In summary, NaDC3 and, to a lesser extent, OAT1 are likely to be responsible for the uptake of NCG from the blood. Efflux of NCG across the luminal membrane into the tubular lumen probably occurs by OAT4 completing renal secretion of this drug.
Development and modulation of intrinsic membrane properties control the temporal precision of auditory brain stem neurons
Authors: Franzen Delwen L. , Gleiss Sarah A. , Berger Christina , Kümpfbeck Franziska S. , Ammer Julian J. , Felmy Felix
Published: October 2014

Passive and active membrane properties determine the voltage responses of neurons. Within the auditory brain stem, refinements in these intrinsic properties during late postnatal development usually generate short integration times and precise action-potential generation. This developmentally acquired temporal precision is crucial for auditory signal processing. How the interactions of these intrinsic properties develop in concert to enable auditory neurons to transfer information with high temporal precision has not yet been elucidated in detail. Here, we show how the developmental interaction of intrinsic membrane parameters generates high firing precision. We performed in vitro recordings from neurons of postnatal days 9–28 in the ventral nucleus of the lateral lemniscus of Mongolian gerbils, an auditory brain stem structure that converts excitatory to inhibitory information with high temporal precision. During this developmental period, the input resistance and capacitance decrease, and action potentials acquire faster kinetics and enhanced precision. Depending on the stimulation time course, the input resistance and capacitance contribute differentially to action-potential thresholds. The decrease in input resistance, however, is sufficient to explain the enhanced action-potential precision. Alterations in passive membrane properties also interact with a developmental change in potassium currents to generate the emergence of the mature firing pattern, characteristic of coincidence-detector neurons. Cholinergic receptor-mediated depolarizations further modulate this intrinsic excitability profile by eliciting changes in the threshold and firing pattern, irrespective of the developmental stage. Thus our findings reveal how intrinsic membrane properties interact developmentally to promote temporally precise information processing.
The role of slow and persistent TTX-resistant sodium currents in acute tumor necrosis factor-α-mediated increase in nociceptors excitability
Authors: Gudes Sagi , Barkai Omer , Caspi Yaki , Katz Ben , Lev Shaya , Binshtok Alexander M.
Published: October 2014

Tetrodotoxin-resistant (TTX-r) sodium channels are key players in determining the input-output properties of peripheral nociceptive neurons. Changes in gating kinetics or in expression levels of these channels by proinflammatory mediators are likely to cause the hyperexcitability of nociceptive neurons and pain hypersensitivity observed during inflammation. Proinflammatory mediator, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), is secreted during inflammation and is associated with the early onset, as well as long-lasting, inflammation-mediated increase in excitability of peripheral nociceptive neurons. Here we studied the underlying mechanisms of the rapid component of TNF-α-mediated nociceptive hyperexcitability and acute pain hypersensitivity. We showed that TNF-α leads to rapid onset, cyclooxygenase-independent pain hypersensitivity in adult rats. Furthermore, TNF-α rapidly and substantially increases nociceptive excitability in vitro, by decreasing action potential threshold, increasing neuronal gain and decreasing accommodation. We extended on previous studies entailing p38 MAPK-dependent increase in TTX-r sodium currents by showing that TNF-α via p38 MAPK leads to increased availability of TTX-r sodium channels by partial relief of voltage dependence of their slow inactivation, thereby contributing to increase in neuronal gain. Moreover, we showed that TNF-α also in a p38 MAPK-dependent manner increases persistent TTX-r current by shifting the voltage dependence of activation to a hyperpolarized direction, thus producing an increase in inward current at functionally critical subthreshold voltages. Our results suggest that rapid modulation of the gating of TTX-r sodium channels plays a major role in the mediated nociceptive hyperexcitability of TNF-α during acute inflammation and may lead to development of effective treatments for inflammatory pain, without modulating the inflammation-induced healing processes.
Gastrodin Suppresses the Amyloidβ-Induced Increase of Spontaneous Discharge in the Entorhinal Cortex of Rats
Authors: Chen Peng-zhi , Jiang Hui-hui , Wen Bo , Ren Shuan-cheng , Chen Yang , Ji Wei-gang , Hu Bo , Zhang Jun , Xu Fenglian , Zhu Zhi-ru
Published: October 2014

Accumulated soluble amyloid beta- (Aβ-) induced aberrant neuronal network activity may directly contribute to cognitive deficits, which are the most outstanding characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The entorhinal cortex (EC) is one of the earliest affected brain regions in AD. Impairments of EC neurons are responsible for the cognitive deficits in AD. However, little effort has been made to investigate the effects of soluble Aβon the discharge properties of EC neuronsin vivo. The present study was designed to examine the effects of soluble Aβ1−42on the discharge properties of EC neurons, usingin vivoextracellular single unit recordings. The protective effects of gastrodin (GAS) were also investigated against Aβ1−42-induced alterations in EC neuronal activities. The results showed that the spontaneous discharge of EC neurons was increased by local application of soluble Aβ1−42and that GAS can effectively reverse Aβ1−42-induced facilitation of spontaneous discharge in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, whole-cell patch clamp results indicated that the protective function of GAS on abnormal hyperexcitability may be partially mediated by its inhibitory action on Aβ1−42-elicited inward currents in EC neurons. Our study suggested that GAS may provide neuroprotective effects on Aβ1−42-induced hyperactivity in EC neurons of rats.
A GPU-Based Gibbs Sampler for a Unidimensional IRT Model
Authors: Sheng Yanyan , Welling William S. , Zhu Michelle M.
Published: October 2014

Item response theory (IRT) is a popular approach used for addressing large-scale statistical problems in psychometrics as well as in other fields. The fully Bayesian approach for estimating IRT models is usually memory and computationally expensive due to the large number of iterations. This limits the use of the procedure in many applications. In an effort to overcome such restraint, previous studies focused on utilizing the message passing interface (MPI) in a distributed memory-based Linux cluster to achieve certain speedups. However, given the high data dependencies in a single Markov chain for IRT models, the communication overhead rapidly grows as the number of cluster nodes increases. This makes it difficult to further improve the performance under such a parallel framework. This study aims to tackle the problem using massive core-based graphic processing units (GPU), which is practical, cost-effective, and convenient in actual applications. The performance comparisons among serial CPU, MPI, and compute unified device architecture (CUDA) programs demonstrate that the CUDA GPU approach has many advantages over the CPU-based approach and therefore is preferred.