bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From one-dimensional fields to Vlasov equilibria: theory and application of Hermite polynomials
Authors: Allanson O. , Neukirch T. , Troscheit S. , Wilson F.
Published: June 2016

We consider the theory and application of a solution method for the inverse problem in collisionless equilibria, namely that of calculating a Vlasov–Maxwell equilibrium for a given macroscopic (fluid) equilibrium. Using Jeans’ theorem, the equilibrium distribution functions are expressed as functions of the constants of motion, in the form of a Maxwellian multiplied by an unknown function of the canonical momenta. In this case it is possible to reduce the inverse problem to inverting Weierstrass transforms, which we achieve by using expansions over Hermite polynomials. A sufficient condition on the pressure tensor is found which guarantees the convergence and the boundedness of the candidate solution, when satisfied. This condition is obtained by elementary means, and it is clear how to put it into practice. We also argue that for a given pressure tensor for which our method applies, there always exists a positive distribution function solution for a sufficiently magnetised plasma. Illustrative examples of the use of this method with both force-free and non-force-free macroscopic equilibria are presented, including the full verification of a recently derived distribution function for the force-free Harris sheet (Allansonet al.,Phys. Plasmas, vol. 22 (10), 2015, 102116). In the effort to model equilibria with lower values of the plasma${\it\beta}$, solutions for the same macroscopic equilibrium in a new gauge are calculated, with numerical results presented for${\it\beta}_{pl}=0.05$.
Cold fronts: probes of plasma astrophysics in galaxy clusters
Authors: ZuHone John A. , Roediger E.
Published: June 2016

The most massive baryonic component of galaxy clusters is the ‘intracluster medium’ (ICM), a diffuse, hot, weakly magnetized plasma that is most easily observed in the X-ray band. Despite being observed for decades, the macroscopic transport properties of the ICM are still not well constrained. A path to determine macroscopic ICM properties opened up with the discovery of ‘cold fronts’. These were observed as sharp discontinuities in surface brightness and temperature in the ICM, with the property that the denser side of the discontinuity is the colder one. The high spatial resolution of the Chandra X-ray Observatory revealed two puzzles about cold fronts. First, they should be subject to Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities, yet in many cases they appear relatively smooth and undisturbed. Second, the width of the interface between the two gas phases is typically narrower than the mean free path of the particles in the plasma, indicating negligible thermal conduction. It was thus realized that these special characteristics of cold fronts may be used to probe the properties of the cluster plasma. In this review, we will discuss the recent simulations of cold fronts in galaxy clusters, focusing on those which have attempted to use these features to constrain ICM physics. In particular, we will examine the effects of magnetic fields, viscosity, and thermal conductivity on the stability properties and long-term evolution of cold fronts. We conclude with a discussion on what important questions remain unanswered, and the future role of simulations and the next generation of X-ray observatories.
A global approach to hierarchical classification of coastal waters at different spatial scales: the NEA case
Authors: Juanes José A. , Puente Araceli , Ramos Elvira
Published: June 2016

Ecological classification of coastal waters has become increasingly important as one of the basic issues in the biology of conservation. Management and protection of coastal areas take place at different spatial scales. Thus, proper classification schemes should integrate equivalent information at various levels of definition in order to show its feasibility as a useful tool for assessment of coastal environments at the required scales. In this work, a global approach applied to the classification of the NE Atlantic coast is analysed in order to discuss pros and cons regarding different conceptual and technical issues for effective implementation of such a management tool. Using the hierarchical system applied at three different geographic scales: Biogeographic (NE Atlantic coast), Regional (Bay of Biscay) and Local (Cantabria region), five different topics were considered for debating strengths and weaknesses of the methodological alternatives at those spatial scales, using for validation the rocky shore macroalgae as a representative biological element of benthic communities. These included: (i) the spatial scales; (ii) the physical variables and indicators; (iii) the classification methodologies; (iv) the biological information; and (v) the validation procedure. Based on that analysis, the hierarchical support system summarized in this paper provides a management framework for classification of coastal systems at the most appropriate resolution, applicable to a wide range of coastal areas. Further applications of the physical classification for management of biodiversity in different environmental scenarios are also analysed.
Duplex DNA barcoding allows accurate species determination of morphologically similar limpets (Patellaspp.) from non-destructive sampling
Authors: Ashton Thomas J. , Kayoueche-Reeve Meriem , Blight Andrew J. , Moore Jon , Paterson David M.
Published: June 2016

Accurate discrimination of two morphologically similar species ofPatellalimpets has been facilitated by using qPCR amplification of species-specific mitochondrial genomic regions. Cost-effective and non-destructive sampling is achieved using a mucus swab and simple sample lysis and dilution to create a PCR template. Results show 100% concurrence with dissection and microscopic analysis, and the technique has been employed successfully in field studies. The use of highly sensitive DNA barcoding techniques such as this hold great potential for improving previously challenging field assessments of species abundance.
Geometric consequences of branching growth in adeoniform Bryozoa
Authors: Cheetham Alan H. , Hayek Lee-Ann C.
Published: June 2016

Many cheilostome bryozoans of diverse phylogenetic origin grow as erect, arborescent colonies with branches of modified planar form composed of two layers of zooids back to back. Regular branching enables a growing colony to expand in surface area, and hence in the number of zooids that feed, reproduce, and perform other vital functions, at an accelerating rate. During growth, branches first all diverge, then increasingly converge, and in late stages of growth begin to interfere with each other's growth and function. Interference can set limits to the width and thickness of branches and hence to the number and size of zooids.

Simulation of growth using a 3–dimensional mathematical model shows that a narrow range of possible values of branching angles minimizes branch interference in late growth stages. These values are prevalent in fossil and modern species. Branch spacing at later growth stages is correlated with the distance between branches at first crossing, providing room for feeding organs of the two facing layers of zooids to protrude and function. Interbranch distances dwindle as branches increasingly converge, so emphasis on minimizing interference at a late stage sets a practical limit to growth beyond that stage. To gain this long-term benefit requires adhering to a regular pattern throughout growth. The considerable variation in branching properties in fossil and modern species, and a variability in spacing inherent in the growth pattern itself, limit the amount of usable interbranch space. Despite a higher intraspecific variability, branching properties are as distinctive interspecifically as zooidal properties, and variability is randomly distributed through the colony. A small reduction in variability between fossil and modern species suggests that increasing regularity may provide a selective advantage in the utilization of interbranch space.
Neural constraints and flexibility in language processing
Authors: Huyck Christian R.
Published: June 2016

Humans process language with their neurons. Memory in neurons is supported by neural firing and by short- and long-term synaptic weight change; the emergent behaviour of neurons, synchronous firing, and cell assembly dynamics is also a form of memory. As the language signal moves to later stages, it is processed with different mechanisms that are slower but more persistent.
Processing cost and its consequences
Authors: O'Grady William
Published: June 2016

I focus on two challenges that processing-based theories of language must confront: the need to explain why language has the particular properties that it does, and the need to explain why processing pressures are manifested in the particular way that they are. I discuss these matters with reference to two illustrative phenomena: proximity effects in word order and a constraint on contraction.
Conceptual short-term memory (CSTM) supports core claims of Christiansen and Chater
Authors: Potter Mary C.
Published: June 2016

Rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) of words or pictured scenes provides evidence for a large-capacity conceptual short-term memory (CSTM) that momentarily provides rich associated material from long-term memory, permitting rapid chunking (Potter 1993; 2009; 2012). In perception of scenes as well as language comprehension, we make use of knowledge that briefly exceeds the supposed limits of working memory.
Linguistics, cognitive psychology, and the Now-or-Never bottleneck
Authors: Endress Ansgar D. , Katzir Roni
Published: June 2016

Christiansen & Chater (C&C)'s key premise is that “if linguistic information is not processed rapidly, that information is lost for good” (sect. 1, para. 1). From this “Now-or-Never bottleneck” (NNB), C&C derive “wide-reaching and fundamental implications for language processing, acquisition and change as well as for the structure of language itself” (sect. 2, para. 10). We question both the premise and the consequentiality of its purported implications.
Robot-assisted perception augmentation for online detection of insertion failure during cochlear implant surgery
Authors: Pile J. , Wanna G. B. , Simaan N.
Published: June 2016

During the past decade, robotics for cochlear implant electrode array insertion has been limited to manipulation assistance. Going beyond manipulation assistance, this paper presents the new concept ofperception augmentationto detect and warn against theonsetof intracochlear electrode array tip folding. Thisonlinefailure detection method uses a combination of intraoperative electrode insertion force data and a predictive model of insertion force profile progression as a function of insertion depth. The predictive model uses statistical characterization of insertion force profiles during normal robotic electrode array insertions as well as the history of intra-operative insertion forces. Online detection of onset of tip folding is achieved using the predictive model as an input into a support vector machine classifier. Results show that the detection of tip folding onset can be achieved with an accuracy of 88% despite the use of intra-operative insertion force data representing incomplete insertion. This result is significant because it allows the surgeon or robot to choose a corrective action for preventing intra-cochlear complications.
Manure management and environmental effects
Authors: Nielsen V. C.
Published: June 2016

The management of pig manures and slurries has not responded to the changes that have occurred in the development of pig farms. Management systems have remained unchanged despite the fact that the majority of pigs (64%) are kept on 10–3% of all pig units. The pressures of heavy applications of manures on restricted areas of land and the large numbers of animals kept in buildings has given rise to environmental pollution by odours and by contamination of water and of the soil.

The cause of odour formation in buildings is discussed, together with the effects of dust on odour dispersion. Methods of reducing odours and the effect of straw on odour formation and slurry handling are discussed.

Methods of controlling odours from buildings, stores and from manure applied to the land are reviewed and areas which need further research and development are proposed.

Environmental pollution by manures and slurries of water and soils and measures to control pollution are reviewed.
Justice to Charity
Authors: Lomasky Loren E.
Published: June 2016

Despite what one may be led to believe by breathless reports in the media, the acme of misery in America is not the woes, financial and otherwise, of Donald Trump and Michael Jackson. People lose their jobs, have their assets drained by reversals of fortune, suffer from illiteracy, malnutrition, lack of shelter, and other mishaps. The circumstances in which they find themselves are genuinely distressing. It would be an odd understanding indeed that failed to find these circumstances directly relevant to what morality asks of us. If morality is to count for anything, then surely it must take notice of exigent need. This is not merely the deliverance of a late twentieth-century Western moral consciousness massaged by the blessings of comparative affluence and graced with a newfound awareness of social justice. All traditional ethical codes of which I am aware, sacred and secular, demand that one take the distress of one's neighbor as bearing on one's own activities. “Am I my brother's keeper?” is the question; the well-nigh universal answer is “Yes.” The disposition to be moved by and respond to distress is the virtue ofcharity.
Transformative Equality: Making the Sustainable Development Goals Work for Women
Authors: Fredman Sandra , Kuosmanen Jaakko , Campbell Meghan
Published: June 2016

It is generally agreed by most observers that the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) have fallen short of achieving gender equality and women's empowerment. Today, women continue to be more likely than men to live in poverty, and more than 18 million girls in sub-Saharan Africa are out of school. One of the crucial reasons for the failure of the MDGs in relation to women was their inability to address the deeply entrenched and interlocking factors that perpetuate women's disadvantage. The new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as articulated in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, constitute an improvement over the MDGs. Goal 5, which enshrines the stand-alone goal on gender equality, is comprised of nine specific targets, including the elimination of gender-based violence and access to reproductive health. In addition, gender equality is mainstreamed into numerous others goals. Given that the global community is now poised to implement the SDGs, the challenge is how best to integrate a transformative approach into the planning, implementation, and delivery of the specific targets so that the SDGs contribute to achieving gender equality and women's empowerment.
Should We Take the “Human” Out of Human Rights? Human Dignity in a Corporate World
Authors: Lafont Cristina
Published: June 2016

In recent years philosophical debates on human rights have focused upon the contrast between humanist and political conceptions of human rights. Defenders of the humanist conception take human rights to be those rights that we have solely in virtue of being human. By contrast, defenders of the political conception aim to offer an account of human rights practice without any recourse to notions such as human dignity, personhood, etc. They take human rights to be those rights that we have in virtue of being subject to political authority. In this essay, I show some of the problematic implications of endorsing this aspect of the political conception. After analyzing some key functions that the concept of human dignity plays in human rights practice, I focus on the gradual extension of legal human rights to corporations. I analyze the negative effects that the distinctive functions of human rights norms can have upon the human rights of natural persons once corporations are recognized as legal persons bearing human rights. Turning to human rights jurisprudence I then explore the normative resources that the concept of human dignity has to offer in order to prevent such negative effects and which are unavailable to a conception of human rights that disregards the humanist core of human rights practice.
When Democracies Denationalize: The Epistemological Case against Revoking Citizenship
Authors: Cohen Elizabeth F.
Published: June 2016

Discomfort with denationalization spans both proceduralist and consequentialist objections. I augment Patti Lenard's arguments against denationalization with an epistemological argument. What makes denationalization problematic for democratic theorists are not simply the procedures used to impose this penalty or its consequences but also the permanence of this type of punishment. Because democratic theory assumes citizens to be subject to developmental processes that can substantially alter a person's character in politically relevant ways, I argue in favor of states imposing only revocable punishments. Penalties removing people's rights and political standing must be accompanied by avenues for periodic reconsideration of such punishments in order to meet Lenard's standard of democratic legitimacy.
Democracy, Exile, and Revocation
Authors: Miller David
Published: June 2016

What first caught my eye when reading Patti Lenard's clear and carefully argued critique of citizenship revocation was a claim at the end of her first paragraph: the power to revoke citizenship, she says, “is incompatible with democracy.” That is quite a strong claim, and my thoughts turned immediately to the fons et origo of democracy, ancient Greece. Weren't the Greek city-states notorious for the readiness with which they disenfranchised, banished, exiled, even outlawed some among their own citizens? And in the case of Athens especially, wasn't this in part because it was a democracy (at least for those who qualified for citizenship), and expulsion from the demos was one of the devices used to protect it?
Preface to the special issue: Continuity, computability, constructivity: from logic to algorithms 2013
Authors: ISHIHARA HAJIME , KOROVINA MARGARITA , PAULY ARNO , SEISENBERGER MONIKA , SPREEN DIETER
Published: June 2016

This issue of Mathematical Structures in Computer Science is composed mainly of papers submitted by participants of the Workshop ‘Continuity, Computability, Constructivity: From Logic to Algorithms,’ held in Gregynog, a conference centre of the University of Wales located in the beautiful nature of Mid Wales, in the last week of June 2013. In addition, several colleagues accepted our invitation to contribute to this volume.
The Search for a European Identity in the Long 1970s: External Relations and Institutional Evolution in the European Community
Authors: TULLI UMBERTO
Published: June 2016

The past decade has seen an explosion of scholarly work on the European Community (EC)’s attempts to develop an international role during the ‘long 1970s’. This is hardly surprising: historians tend to follow the opening of the archives, and now is the best moment to examine primary sources from the period. There are, however, two further reasons for this growing interest in European integration during the 1970s. Firstly, writing in the aftermath of the crisis in relations between the United States and Europe provoked by the US's global war on terrorism and at the height of the European financial crisis, many scholars – historians and political scientists alike – have looked back at the crisis of the 1970s, searching for precedents, similarities and differences. Secondly, thanks to the number of studies now available, the decade is widely recognised as a pivotal period of global transformation – a period in which new global dynamics produced radical change for Europe and for the international system as a whole. In many ways, this decade represented a crisis of modernity that saw the emergence of new actors and processes. Cold War categories became too rigid to usefully define – or even explain – an increasingly pluralistic world, in which new international actors, ranging from transnational grassroots movements to international institutions and regular international summits, began to play major roles. The oppressive but unambiguous Cold War order started to crumble, and a new one, characterised by ‘interdependence’ and ‘globalisation’, began to emerge. The effects of this transformation were particularly dramatic for Europe: it was in the seventies that Europe ‘entered a different world’.
The Tensile Behavior of High-Strength Carbon Fibers
Authors: Langston Tye
Published: June 2016

Carbon fibers exhibit exceptional properties such as high stiffness and specific strength, making them excellent reinforcements for composite materials. However, it is difficult to directly measure their tensile properties and estimates are often obtained by tensioning fiber bundles or composites. While these macro scale tests are informative for composite design, their results differ from that of direct testing of individual fibers. Furthermore, carbon filament strength also depends on other variables, including the test length, actual fiber diameter, and material flaw distribution. Single fiber tensile testing was performed on high-strength carbon fibers to determine the load and strain at failure. Scanning electron microscopy was also conducted to evaluate the fiber surface morphology and precisely measure each fiber’s diameter. Fiber strength was found to depend on the test gage length and in an effort to better understand the overall expected performance of these fibers at various lengths, statistical weak link scaling was performed. In addition, the true Young’s modulus was also determined by taking the system compliance into account. It was found that all properties (tensile strength, strain to failure, and Young’s modulus) matched very well with the manufacturers’ reported values at 20 mm gage lengths, but deviated significantly at other lengths.
Too Much an Out-Group? How Nonverbal Cues About Gender and Ethnicity Affect Candidate Support
Authors: Barisione Mauro , Iyengar Shanto
Published: June 2016

Previous work on nonverbal cues has demonstrated the influence of candidates’ facial displays on voter preferences. However, the idea that visual cues affect political judgment by signaling the relative social solidarity (in-group vs. out-group status) between candidates and voters has received little attention. We fill this gap by experimentally manipulating facial cues associated with the physical features of gender and ethnicity (Afrocentric vs. Eurocentric-looking) and assessing their effects on candidate support in the context of the Italian 2013 general election. The experimental design is based on a CAWI post-election online survey conducted on a representative sample of Italian voters. We find that group differences between candidates and voters matter, but only among right of center voters, who respond more negatively to party candidates expressing “combined” (party x gender x ethnicity) dissimilarity. Gender- and ethnicity-based differences are, on the contrary, “assimilated” and accepted when the target candidate is from the voter's party.
The Role of Children’s Education for the Mental Health of Aging Migrants in Europe
Authors: Sabater Albert , Graham Elspeth
Published: June 2016

Abstract. In this study, using SHARE data we examined whether the education of adult children is associated with depressive symptoms (EURO-D caseness) for older immigrants and nonimmigrants in Europe. After controlling for possible confounders, we found that the education of adult children has independent effects on the mental health of their parents, and that having children with upper secondary or tertiary levels of education significantly lessen the odds of immigrants experiencing depressive symptoms. Furthermore, regular contact between parents and their adult children exerts a positive influence as well as amplifying the relationship between children’s education and mental health. Taken together, the results demonstrate that, were it not for family social capital, older immigrants might experience much worse mental health outcomes.
A Pilot Study on the Efficacy of Volunteer Mentorship for Young Adults With Self-Harm Behaviors Using a Quasi-Experimental Design
Authors: Law Yik-Wa , Yip Paul S. F. , Lai Carmen C. S. , Kwok Chi Leung , Wong Paul W. C. , Liu Kwong-Sun , Ng Pauline W. L. , Liao Carmen W. M. , Wong Tai-Wai
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Background: Studies have shown that postdischarge care for self-harm patients is effective in reducing repeated suicidal behaviors. Little is known about whether volunteer support can help reduce self-harm repetition and improve psychosocial well-being. Aim: This study investigated the efficacy of volunteer support in preventing repetition of self-harm. Method: This study used a quasi-experimental design by assigning self-harm patients admitted to the emergency departments to an intervention group with volunteer support and treatment as usual (TAU) for 9 months and to a control group of TAU. Outcome measures include repetition of self-harm, suicidal ideation, hopelessness, and level of depressive and anxiety symptoms. Results: A total of 74 cases were recruited (38 participants; 36 controls). There were no significant differences in age, gender, and clinical condition between the two groups at the baseline. The intervention group showed significant improvements in hopelessness and depressive symptoms. However, the number of cases of suicide ideation and of repetition of self-harm episodes was similar for both groups at the postintervention period. Conclusion: Postdischarge care provided by volunteers showed significant improvement in hopelessness and depression. Volunteers have been commonly involved in suicide prevention services. Further research using rigorous methods is recommended for improving service quality in the long term.
Cluster Analysis of Characteristics of Persons Who Died by Suicide in the Montreal Metro Transit
Authors: Bardon Cécile , Coté Louis-Philippe , Mishara Brian L.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Background: Suicides occur in metro systems worldwide and patterns vary in different urban transit networks. Aims: This study presents an in-depth analysis of 117 suicides in the Montreal Metro from 2000 to 2008 based on data obtained from coroners' investigations. Method: Cluster analyses were performed to identify characteristics of groups of people who kill themselves in the Montreal Metro. We also compared changes in characteristics with data from 1986 to 1995. Results: We identified five clusters of suicidal persons that describe patterns of characteristics of individuals who died by suicide in the metro that may be useful for prevention. Comparisons of suicides during 2000–2008 with data from a previous study of coroners' investigations of Montreal Metro suicides during 1986–1995 indicate changes in age, isolation, types of problems, and geographic patterns. Conclusion: Characteristics of metro suicides may be specific to localities and can change over time. Their understanding may facilitate the development of prevention strategies tailored to these different profiles.
The New Blue Economy: A Vast Oceanic Frontier
Authors: Spinrad Richard
Published: June 2016

On World Oceans Day, let's reflect on the now realizable potential for investing in and building upon new opportunities that beckon from the sea.
Interior Approves Wind Farm Leasing Offshore from New York City
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: June 2016

The proposed wind farm, which commercial fishermen oppose, could produce at least 70 megawatts of energy annually, enough to power a quarter of a million homes.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress in bone marrow-derived cells prevents acute cardiac inflammation and injury in response to angiotensin II
Authors: Li T-T , Jia L-X , Zhang W-M , Li X-Y , Zhang J , Li Y-L , Li H-H , Qi Y-F , Du J
Published: June 2016

Inflammation plays an important role in hypertensive cardiac injury. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathway is involved in the inflammatory response. However, the role of ER stress in elevated angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced cardiac injury remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of ER stress in Ang II-induced hypertensive cardiac injury. Transcriptome analysis and quantitative real-time PCR showed that Ang II infusion in mice increased ER stress-related genes expression in the heart. C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) deficiency, a key mediator of ER stress, increased infiltration of inflammatory cells, especially neutrophils, the production of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines in Ang II-infused mouse hearts. CHOP deficiency increased Ang II-induced cardiac fibrotic injury: (1) Masson trichrome staining showed increased fibrotic areas, (2) immunohistochemistry staining showed increased expression of α-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor β1 and (3) quantitative real-time PCR showed increased expression of collagen in CHOP-deficient mouse heart. Bone marrow transplantation experiments indicated that CHOP deficiency in bone marrow cells was responsible for Ang II-induced cardiac fibrotic injury. Moreover, TUNEL staining and flow cytometry revealed that CHOP deficiency decreased neutrophil apoptosis in response to Ang II. Taken together, our study demonstrated that hypertension induced ER stress after Ang II infusion. ER stress in bone marrow-derived cells protected acute cardiac inflammation and injury in response to Ang II.
Dynamic protein coronas revealed as a modulator of silver nanoparticle sulphidation in vitro
Authors: Miclăuş Teodora , Beer Christiane , Chevallier Jacques , Scavenius Carsten , Bochenkov Vladimir E. , Enghild Jan J. , Sutherland Duncan S.
Published: June 2016

Proteins adsorbing at nanoparticles have been proposed as critical toxicity mediators and are included in ongoing efforts to develop predictive tools for safety assessment. Strongly attached proteins can be isolated, identified and correlated to changes in nanoparticle state, cellular association or toxicity. Weakly attached, rapidly exchanging proteins are also present at nanoparticles, but are difficult to isolate and have hardly been examined. Here we study rapidly exchanging proteins and show for the first time that they have a strong modulatory effect on the biotransformation of silver nanoparticles. Released silver ions, known for their role in particle toxicity, are found to be trapped as silver sulphide nanocrystals within the protein corona at silver nanoparticles in serum-containing cell culture media. The strongly attached corona acts as a site for sulphidation, while the weakly attached proteins reduce nanocrystal formation in a serum-concentration-dependent manner. Sulphidation results in decreased toxicity of Ag NPs.
Plexciton Dirac points and topological modes
Authors: Yuen-Zhou Joel , Saikin Semion K. , Zhu Tony , Onbasli Mehmet C. , Ross Caroline A. , Bulovic Vladimir , Baldo Marc A.
Published: June 2016

Plexcitons are polaritonic modes that result from the strong coupling between excitons and plasmons. Here, we consider plexcitons emerging from the interaction of excitons in an organic molecular layer with surface plasmons in a metallic film. We predict the emergence of Dirac cones in the two-dimensional band-structure of plexcitons due to the inherent alignment of the excitonic transitions in the organic layer. An external magnetic field opens a gap between the Dirac cones if the plexciton system is interfaced with a magneto-optical layer. The resulting energy gap becomes populated with topologically protected one-way modes, which travel at the interface of this plexcitonic system. Our theoretical proposal suggests that plexcitons are a convenient and simple platform for the exploration of exotic phases of matter and for the control of energy flow at the nanoscale.
The structure of slip-pulses and supershear ruptures driving slip in bimaterial friction
Authors: Shlomai Hadar , Fineberg Jay
Published: June 2016

The most general frictional motion in nature involves bimaterial interfaces, when contacting bodies possess different elastic properties. Frictional motion occurs when the contacts composing the interface separating these bodies detach via propagating rupture fronts. Coupling between slip and normal stress variations is unique to bimaterial interfaces. Here we use high speed simultaneous measurements of slip velocities, real contact area and stresses to explicitly reveal this bimaterial coupling and its role in determining different classes of rupture modes and their structures. We directly observe slip-pulses, highly localized slip accompanied by large local reduction of the normal stress near the rupture tip. These pulses propagate in the direction of motion of the softer material at a selected (maximal) velocity and continuously evolve while propagating. In the opposite direction bimaterial coupling favors crack-like ‘supershear’ fronts. The robustness of these structures shows the importance of bimaterial coupling to frictional motion and modes of frictional dissipation.
GP utilisation by education level among adults with COPD or asthma: a cross-sectional register-based study
Authors: Hetlevik Øystein , Melbye Hasse , Gjesdal Sturla
Published: June 2016

There is a marked socioeconomic gradient in the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, but a large proportion of patients remain undiagnosed. It is a challenge for general practitioners (GPs) to both identify patients and contribute to equity and high quality in services delivered. The aim of this study was to identify patients with COPD and asthma diagnoses recorded by GPs and explore their utilisation of GP services by education level. This was a cross-sectional, national, register-based study from Norwegian general practice in the period 2009–2011. Based on claims from GPs, the number of patients aged ⩾40 years with a diagnosis of COPD or asthma and their GP services utilisation were estimated and linked to the national education database. Multivariate Poisson and logistic regression models were used to explore the variations in GP utilisation. In the population aged ⩾40 years, 2.8% had COPD and 3.8% had asthma according to GPs’ diagnoses. COPD was four times more prevalent in patients with basic education than higher education; this increase was ⩽80% for asthma. Consultation rates were 12% higher (P<0.001) for COPD and 25% higher (P<0.001) for asthma in patients with low versus high education in the age group of 40–59 years after adjusting for comorbidity, and patient and GP characteristics. Approximately 25% of COPD patients and 20% of asthma patients had ⩾1 spirometry test in general practice in 2011, with no significant education differences in adjusted models. The higher consultation rate in lower-education groups indicates that GPs contribute to fair distribution of healthcare.
Host genetics determine susceptibility to avian influenza infection and transmission dynamics
Authors: Ruiz-Hernandez Raul , Mwangi William , Peroval Marylene , Sadeyen Jean-Remy , Ascough Stephanie , Balkissoon Devanand , Staines Karen , Boyd Amy , McCauley John , Smith Adrian , Butter Colin
Published: June 2016

Host-genetic control of influenza virus infection has been the object of little attention. In this study we determined that two inbred lines of chicken differing in their genetic background , Lines 0 and C-B12, were respectively relatively resistant and susceptible to infection with the low pathogenicity influenza virus A/Turkey/England/647/77 as defined by substantial differences in viral shedding trajectories. Resistant birds, although infected, were unable to transmit virus to contact birds, as ultimately only the presence of a sustained cloacal shedding (and not oropharyngeal shedding) was critical for transmission. Restriction of within-bird transmission of virus occurred in the resistant line, with intra-nares or cloacal infection resulting in only local shedding and failing to transmit fully through the gastro-intestinal-pulmonary tract. Resistance to infection was independent of adaptive immune responses, including the expansion of specific IFNγ secreting cells or production of influenza-specific antibody. Genetic resistance to a novel H9N2 virus was less robust, though significant differences between host genotypes were still clearly evident. The existence of host-genetic determination of the outcome of influenza infection offers tools for the further dissection of this regulation and also for understanding the mechanisms of influenza transmission within and between birds.
Drug-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) rely on cell membrane properties to exert anticancer effects
Authors: Molavian Hamid R. , Goldman Aaron , Phipps Colin J. , Kohandel Mohammad , Wouters Bradly G. , Sengupta Shiladitya , Sivaloganathan Sivabal
Published: June 2016

Pharmacological concentrations of small molecule natural products, such as ascorbic acid, have exhibited distinct cell killing outcomes between cancer and normal cells whereby cancer cells undergo apoptosis or necrosis while normal cells are not adversely affected. Here, we develop a mathematical model for ascorbic acid that can be utilized as a tool to understand the dynamics of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced cell death. We determine that not only do endogenous antioxidants such as catalase contribute to ROS-induced cell death, but also cell membrane properties play a critical role in the efficacy of ROS as a cytotoxic mechanism against cancer cells vs. normal cells. Using in vitro assays with breast cancer cells, we have confirmed that cell membrane properties are essential for ROS, in the form of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), to induce cell death. Interestingly, we did not observe any correlation between intracellular H2O2 and cell survival, suggesting that cell death by H2O2 is triggered by interaction with the cell membrane and not necessarily due to intracellular levels of H2O2. These findings provide a putative mechanistic explanation for the efficacy and selectivity of therapies such as ascorbic acid that rely on ROS-induced cell death for their anti-tumor properties.
Selective inhibition of apicoplast tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase causes delayed death in Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Pasaje Charisse Flerida A. , Cheung Vanessa , Kennedy Kit , Lim Erin E. , Baell Jonathan B. , Griffin Michael D. W. , Ralph Stuart A.
Published: June 2016

The malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum relies on efficient protein translation. An essential component of translation is the tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (TrpRS) that charges tRNAtrp. Here we characterise two isoforms of TrpRS in Plasmodium; one eukaryotic type localises to the cytosol and a bacterial type localises to the remnant plastid (apicoplast). We show that the apicoplast TrpRS aminoacylates bacterial tRNAtrp while the cytosolic TrpRS charges eukaryotic tRNAtrp. An inhibitor of bacterial TrpRSs, indolmycin, specifically inhibits aminoacylation by the apicoplast TrpRS in vitro, and inhibits ex vivo Plasmodium parasite growth, killing parasites with a delayed death effect characteristic of apicoplast inhibitors. Indolmycin treatment ablates apicoplast inheritance and is rescuable by addition of the apicoplast metabolite isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP). These data establish that inhibition of an apicoplast housekeeping enzyme leads to loss of the apicoplast and this is sufficient for delayed death. Apicoplast TrpRS is essential for protein translation and is a promising, specific antimalarial target.
Proposal for probing energy transfer pathway by single-molecule pump-dump experiment
Authors: Tao Ming-Jie , Ai Qing , Deng Fu-Guo , Cheng Yuan-Chung
Published: June 2016

The structure of Fenna-Matthews-Olson (FMO) light-harvesting complex had long been recognized as containing seven bacteriochlorophyll (BChl) molecules. Recently, an additional BChl molecule was discovered in the crystal structure of the FMO complex, which may serve as a link between baseplate and the remaining seven molecules. Here, we investigate excitation energy transfer (EET) process by simulating single-molecule pump-dump experiment in the eight-molecules complex. We adopt the coherent modified Redfield theory and non-Markovian quantum jump method to simulate EET dynamics. This scheme provides a practical approach of detecting the realistic EET pathway in BChl complexes with currently available experimental technology. And it may assist optimizing design of artificial light-harvesting devices.
Strong modulation of plasmons in Graphene with the use of an Inverted pyramid array diffraction grating
Authors: Matthaiakakis N. , Mizuta H. , Charlton M. D. B.
Published: June 2016

An optical device configuration allowing efficient electrical tuning of surface plasmon wavelength and absorption in a suspended/conformal graphene film is reported. An underlying 2-dimensional array of inverted rectangular pyramids greatly enhances optical coupling to the graphene film. In contrast to devices utilising 1D grating or Kretchman prism coupling configurations, both s and p polarization can excite plasmons due to symmetry of the grating structure. Additionally, the excited high frequency plasmon mode has a wavelength independent of incident photon angle allowing multidirectional coupling. By combining analytical methods with Rigorous Coupled-Wave Analysis, absorption of plasmons is mapped over near infrared spectral range as a function of chemical potential. Strong control over both plasmon wavelength and strength is provided by an ionic gel gate configuration. 0.04eV change in chemical potential increases plasmon energy by 0.05 eV shifting plasmon wavelength towards the visible and providing enhancement in plasmon absorption. Most importantly, plasmon excitation can be dynamically switched off by lowering the chemical potential and moving from the intra-band to the inter-band transition region. Ability to electrically tune plasmon properties can be utilized in applications such as on-chip light modulation, photonic logic gates, optical interconnect and sensing applications.
Small RNA transcriptomes of mangroves evolve adaptively in extreme environments
Authors: Wen Ming , Lin Xingqin , Xie Munan , Wang Yushuai , Shen Xu , Liufu Zhongqi , Wu Chung-I , Shi Suhua , Tang Tian
Published: June 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and endogenous small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are key players in plant stress responses. Here, we present the sRNA transcriptomes of mangrovesBruguiera gymnorrhizaandKandelia candel.Comparative computational analyses and target predictions revealed that mangroves exhibit distinct sRNA regulatory networks that differ from those of glycophytes. A total of 32 known and three novel miRNA families were identified. Conserved and mangrove-specific miRNA targets were predicted; the latter were widely involved in stress responses. The known miRNAs showed differential expression between the mangroves and glycophytes, reminiscent of the adaptive stress-responsive changes inArabidopsis.B. gymnorrhizapossessed highly abundant but less conservedTAS3 trans-acting siRNAs (tasiRNAs) in addition to tasiR-ARFs, with expanded potential targets. Our results indicate that the evolutionary alteration of sRNA expression levels and the rewiring of sRNA-regulatory networks are important mechanisms underlying stress adaptation. We also identified sRNAs that are involved in salt and/or drought tolerance and nutrient homeostasis as possible contributors to mangrove success in stressful environments.
Relationships between physical properties and sequence in silkworm silks
Authors: Malay Ali D. , Sato Ryota , Yazawa Kenjiro , Watanabe Hiroe , Ifuku Nao , Masunaga Hiroyasu , Hikima Takaaki , Guan Juan , Mandal Biman B. , Damrongsakkul Siriporn , Numata Keiji
Published: June 2016

Silk has attracted widespread attention due to its superlative material properties and promising applications. However, the determinants behind the variations in material properties among different types of silk are not well understood. We analysed the physical properties of silk samples from a variety of silkmoth cocoons, including domesticated Bombyx mori varieties and several species from Saturniidae. Tensile deformation tests, thermal analyses and investigations on crystalline structure and orientation of the fibres were performed. The results showed that saturniid silks produce more highly-defined structural transitions compared to B. mori, as seen in the yielding and strain hardening events during tensile deformation and in the changes observed during thermal analyses. These observations were analysed in terms of the constituent fibroin sequences, which in B. mori are predicted to produce heterogeneous structures, whereas the strictly modular repeats of the saturniid sequences are hypothesized to produce structures that respond in a concerted manner. Within saturniid fibroins, thermal stability was found to correlate with the abundance of poly-alanine residues, whereas differences in fibre extensibility can be related to varying ratios of GGX motifs versus bulky hydrophobic residues in the amorphous phase.
Poor prognostic value of lymphovascular invasion for pT1 urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation in bladder cancer
Authors: Li Gang , Song Hualin , Wang Jiaxin , Bao Yali , Niu Yuanjie
Published: June 2016

Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) is the primary and essential step in the systemic dissemination of cancer cells. The aim of our study was to assess the independent prognostic role of LVI for pT1 urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation in bladder cancer. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and pathological information of 206 patients diagnosed pT1 urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation. Of the 206 patients, LVI was detected in 57 (27.6%) patients. The 5 year cancer specific survival (CSS) rates were 87.2% in LVI (−) and 52.4% in LVI (+) (p < 0.001). According to univariate analysis, tumor multiplicity, tumor size, recurrence and LVI were the prognostic factors associated with CSS. Additionally, tumor size and LVI significantly influenced the CSS in multivariate analysis. TURBT had shorter median CSS than RC in recurred patients with LVI (+). Our study suggested that LVI is an important predictor for survival of pT1 urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation. LVI positive status and tumor size ≥3 cm led to a higher risk of death. RC should be routinely performed in recurred LVI (+) bladder cancer patients of pT1 urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation.