bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure‐Dependent Photochromic Iodoargentate Hybrids Based on Photolytic Mechanism
Authors: Wang Meidan , Hao Pengfei , Shen Junju , Fu Yunlong
Published: April 2018

Three inorganic‐organic iodoargentate hybrids, {[MBI][AgI2]}n (1) (MBI+=N, N′‐dimethylbenzimidazolium), {[MPy][AgI2]}n (2) and {[MPy][Ag2I3]}n (3) (MPy+=N‐methylpyridinium) have been synthesized, which exhibit structure‐dependent photoresponse and unique photochromic behavior based on photolytic mechanism.
Large Photothermal Effect in Sub‐40 nm h‐BN Nanostructures Patterned Via High‐Resolution Ion Beam
Authors: López Josué J. , Ambrosio Antonio , Dai Siyuan , Huynh Chuong , Bell David C. , Lin Xiao , Rivera Nicholas , Huang Shengxi , Ma Qiong , Eyhusen Soeren , Kaminer Ido E. , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Kong Jing , Basov Dimitri N. , Jarillo‐Herrero Pablo , Soljačić Marin
Published: April 2018

The controlled nanoscale patterning of 2D materials is a promising approach for engineering the optoelectronic, thermal, and mechanical properties of these materials to achieve novel functionalities and devices. Herein, high‐resolution patterning of hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) is demonstrated via both helium and neon ion beams and an optimal dosage range for both ions that serve as a baseline for insulating 2D materials is identified. Through this nanofabrication approach, a grating with a 35 nm pitch, individual structure sizes down to 20 nm, and additional nanostructures created by patterning crystal step edges are demonstrated. Raman spectroscopy is used to study the defects induced by the ion beam patterning and is correlated to scanning probe microscopy. Photothermal and scanning near‐field optical microscopy measure the resulting near‐field absorption and scattering of the nanostructures. These measurements reveal a large photothermal expansion of nanostructured h‐BN that is dependent on the height to width aspect ratio of the nanostructures. This effect is attributed to the large anisotropy of the thermal expansion coefficients of h‐BN and the nanostructuring implemented. The photothermal expansion should be present in other van der Waals materials with large anisotropy and can lead to applications such as nanomechanical switches driven by light.
Starch–Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) Mixtures Processed by Extrusion
Authors: Veronese Anna Flavia , de Souza Rocha Thais , Franco Celia Maria Landi , Costa Mariana Souza , Grossmann Maria Victoria Eiras
Published: April 2018

Some properties of native starch limit its applications and thus, modifications to its structure or association with other ingredients is recommended. The objective of this work is to study the effects of extrusion on mixtures of corn starch with 1, 5, and 10% w/w of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). CMC acts as a lubricant during processing, making it less drastic and preserving some starch granules against rupture. Increases in CMC concentration generate an increase in viscosity but have no significant effect on thermal properties. No new covalent linkages are observed, suggesting that interactions between polymers occurs via hydrogen bonds. The sample containing 5% w/w CMC added to starch prior to extrusion forms firmer and more stable instant gels compared to the sample in which the same level of CMC is added to the starch extruded without gum. Therefore, extruded mixtures of corn starch‐CMC can be considered as new thickening and gelling ingredients for application, mainly, in instant foods.
Developments in label‐free microfluidic methods for single‐cell analysis and sorting
Authors: Carey Thomas R. , Cotner Kristen L. , Li Brian , Sohn Lydia L.
Published: April 2018

Advancements in microfluidic technologies have led to the development of many new tools for both the characterization and sorting of single cells without the need for exogenous labels. Label‐free microfluidics reduce the preparation time, reagents needed, and cost of conventional methods based on fluorescent or magnetic labels. Furthermore, these devices enable analysis of cell properties such as mechanical phenotype and dielectric parameters that cannot be characterized with traditional labels. Some of the most promising technologies for current and future development toward label‐free, single‐cell analysis and sorting include electronic sensors such as Coulter counters and electrical impedance cytometry; deformation analysis using optical traps and deformation cytometry; hydrodynamic sorting such as deterministic lateral displacement, inertial focusing, and microvortex trapping; and acoustic sorting using traveling or standing surface acoustic waves. These label‐free microfluidic methods have been used to screen, sort, and analyze cells for a wide range of biomedical and clinical applications, including cell cycle monitoring, rapid complete blood counts, cancer diagnosis, metastatic progression monitoring, HIV and parasite detection, circulating tumor cell isolation, and point‐of‐care diagnostics. Because of the versatility of label‐free methods for characterization and sorting, the low‐cost nature of microfluidics, and the rapid prototyping capabilities of modern microfabrication, we expect this class of technology to continue to be an area of high research interest going forward. New developments in this field will contribute to the ongoing paradigm shift in cell analysis and sorting technologies toward label‐free microfluidic devices, enabling new capabilities in biomedical research tools as well as clinical diagnostics.

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > Biosensing

Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices
Measurement of Total Liver Volume Using the Energy Expenditure: A New Formula
Authors: Donadon Matteo , Mimmo Antonio , Costa Guido , Cimino Matteo , Viganò Luca , Palmisano Angela , Torzilli Guido
Published: April 2018

Background

The assessment of liver volume (LV) is important before surgical resection or transplantation to reduce the risk of hepatic insufficiency. LV is usually measured using computed tomography or with some formulas. The aim of this study was to develop a new dynamic formula to predict LV.

Methods

Using computed tomography, LV was calculated in 101 patients without liver disease. LV was correlated with patient metabolic status, calculated with the Harris–Benedict equation for basal energy expenditure (BEE). Activity energy expenditure (AEE) was also calculated. Using linear regression analysis, a new formula was derived and was compared with Heinmann’s, Urata’s, Emre’s, Vauthey’s, Yoshizumi’s, Yu’s, and Hashimoto’s formulas.

Results

A new basal formula was established: LV = (0.789 × BEE) + 272. It was found to be the most accurate (R2 = 0.39, p < 0.001). Heinmann’s, Emre’s, and Vauthey’s formulas tend to overestimate LV, while Urata’s, Yoshizumi’s, Yu’s, and Hashimoto’s formulas tend to underestimate LV. A new AEE formula was also established: LV = (0.789 × AEE) + 272.

Conclusions

These formulas give a dynamic perspective of LV, which may be influenced by the patient’s actual clinical status. Using these formulas, it is possible to estimate an increased value of LV, which may contribute to a reduction in the risk of postoperative hepatic insufficiency.
Cytoreductive Surgery and Intraperitoneal Hyperthermic Chemotherapy (HIPEC) by Minimally Invasive Approach, an Initial Experience
Authors: Arjona‐Sanchez A. , Rufian‐Peña S. , Sanchez‐Hidalgo J. M. , Casado‐Adam A. , Cosano‐Alvarez A. , Briceño‐Delgado J.
Published: April 2018

Background

The cytoreductive surgery (CRS) associated with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has become the standard treatment in patients with carcinomatosis peritoneal from different origins. The use of a minimally invasive approach for this high complex procedure might be an alternative that provides them less morbidity and faster recovery with similar oncologic outcomes.

Methods

We describe the initial experience of CRS and HIPEC done via the laparoscopic route in patients with minimal peritoneal metastases in our Unit from March 2016 to January 2018.

Results

A total of eight patients were operated by this minimally invasive approach. The different diagnoses were low‐grade pseudomyxoma peritonei (2), benign multicystic mesothelioma (2), primary epithelial ovarian carcinomatosis (2) and locally advanced colon carcinoma T4 (2). The median age was 54 (20–62) years, the median PCI was 3 (2–4), the median operative time was 287 min (240–360), complete cytoreduction CC0 was achieved in all the patients, and no major morbidity was observed. The median length of stay was 4.75 days (4–5). After a median follow‐up of 9.5 months, no relapse has been observed.

Conclusion

The results suggest that this minimally invasive approach for CRS and HIPEC is feasible and safe in a highly selected group of patients with peritoneal surface malignancies.
Marriage Markets and Intermarriage: Exchange in First Marriages and Remarriages
Authors: Qian Zhenchao , Lichter Daniel T.
Published: April 2018

Drawing on data from the American Community Survey, we compare patterns of assortative mating in first marriages, remarriages, and mixed-order marriages. We identify a number of ascribed and achieved characteristics that are viewed as resources available for exchange, both as complements and substitutes. We apply conditional logit models to show how patterns of assortative mating among never-married and previously married persons are subject to local marriage market opportunities and constraints. The results reveal that previously married individuals “cast a wider net”: spousal pairings are more heterogamous among remarriages than among first marriages. Marital heterogamy, however, is reflected in systematic evidence of trade-offs showing that marriage order (i.e., status of being never-married) is a valued trait for exchange. Never-married persons are better positioned than previously married persons to marry more attractive marital partners, variously measured (e.g., highly educated partners). Previously married persons—especially women—are disadvantaged in the marriage market, facing demographic shortages of potential partners to marry. Marriage market constraints take demographic expression in low remarriage rates and in heterogamous patterns of mate selection in which previously married partners often substitute other valued characteristics in marriage with never-married persons.
They didn’t cover this in lecture: The formation and dissolution of the patient-provider relationship
Authors: Czepiel Kathryn S.
Published: April 2018

None
The Harkirk graveyard and William Blundell ‘the Recusant’ (1560-1638): a reconsideration
Authors: Davidson Peter , Blundell Mark , Thornton Dora , Stevenson Jane
Published: April 2018

This article revisits alocus classicusof British Catholic History, the interpretation of the coin-hoard found in 1611 by the Lancashire squire William Blundell of Little Crosby.1This article offers new information, approaching the Harkirk silver from several perspectives: Mark Blundell offers a memoir of his ancestor William Blundell, as well as lending his voice to the account of the subsequent fate of the Harkirk silver; Professor Jane Stevenson and Professor Peter Davidson reconsider the sources for William Blundell’s historiography as well as considering wider questions of memory and the recusant community; Dr Dora Thornton analyses the silver pyx made from the Harkirk coins in detail, and surveys analogous silverwork in depth.
Querschnittsuntersuchung von Bewohnern einer stationären Eingliederungsmaßnahme mit der Diagnose einer Psychose aus dem schizophrenen Formenkreis
Authors: Werner Micha , Hofsaess Maike , Burgbacher Anina , Müller Katarina , Martin Matthias , Fleischhaker Christian
Published: April 2018

Zusammenfassung. Fragestellung: Das Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchung ist es, das neuropsychologische Funktionsniveau, die Behandlungszufriedenheit und die Medikation bei Kindern und Jugendlichen zu evaluieren, die an einer Psychose aus dem schizophrenen Formenkreis erkrankt sind und zum Zeitpunkt der Untersuchung an einer stationären Eingliederungsmaßnahme in dem Kinder- und Jugendwohnheim Leppermühle teilnahmen. Zusätzlich sollen bekannte Prädiktoren auf ihren Einfluss auf verschiedene Verlaufsvariablen hin untersucht werden. Methodik: Es konnten 42 Patienten (37.2 %) der insgesamt 113 Bewohner des Kinder- und Jugendwohnheims mit einer entsprechenden Diagnose untersucht werden. Ergebnisse: Die Patienten waren bei Erkrankungsbeginn durchschnittlich 14.5 Jahre alt und zum Zeitpunkt der Untersuchung waren sie im Mittel 20.0 Jahre alt. Für den Gesamtintelligenzquotient lag der Wert bei 87.0 Punkten, für den Trail Making Test Teil A (TMT-A) bei 73.1 Punkten und für den Trail Making Test Teil B (TMT-B) bei 75.6 Punkten. Die Behandlungszufriedenheit lag in allen Skalen und Subskalen des Fragebogens zur Beurteilung der Behandlung (FBB) bei 2.50 bis 3.50 Punkten, was einer guten Bewertung entspricht. Die Medikation entsprach nicht in allen Punkten den Leitlinien. Als Prädiktoren für das neuropsychologische Funktionsniveau konnte nur die prämorbide kognitive Leistungsfähigkeit bestätigt werden. Schlussfolgerungen: Die gefundenen Ergebnisse im Wechsler Adult Intelligence Score IV (WAIS-IV) und im TMT-A/B sprechen für eine deutliche Beeinträchtigung der Patienten im neuropsychologischen Funktionsniveau und decken sich überwiegend mit den Werten bisher durchgeführter Studien.
Strategies for Increasing the Accuracy of Interviewer Observations of	Respondent Features
Authors: West Brady T. , Kreuter Frauke
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Because survey response rates are consistently declining worldwide, survey researchers strive to obtain as much auxiliary information on sampled units as possible. Surveys using in-person interviewing often request that interviewers collect observations on key features of all sampled units, given that interviewers are the eyes and ears of the survey organization. Unfortunately, these observations are prone to error, which decreases the effectiveness of nonresponse adjustments based on the observations. No studies have investigated the strategies being used by interviewers tasked with making these observations, or examined whether certain strategies improve observation accuracy. This study is the first to examine the associations of observational strategies used by survey interviewers with the accuracy of observations collected by those interviewers. A qualitative analysis followed by multilevel models of observation accuracy shows that focusing on relevant correlates of the feature being observed and considering a diversity of cues are associated with increased observation accuracy.
Command and Control
Authors: Beveridge Stuart D. H. , Henderson Simon T. , Martin Wayne L. , Lamb Joleah B.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Compared with other team settings, flight crew in air transport present a unique situation where the leader or supervisor regularly engages in active control. When the captain is assigned cognitively demanding pilot flying duties, the subordinate and often less experienced first officer must perform equally crucial monitoring and support duties. Using a systematic review methodology, this study reviews the reported effect of crew role assignment on flight safety outcomes. Our review identified 18 relevant studies and suggests crew performance factors linked to flight safety are affected by crew role assignment. Findings suggest a greater number of inherent obstacles may exist for optimal crew performance with the captain as pilot flying, raising the need for further specific research and policy review in this area.
Fast Response of the Tropics to an Abrupt Loss of Arctic Sea Ice via Ocean Dynamics
Authors: Wang Kun , Deser Clara , Sun Lantao , Tomas Robert A.
Published: April 2018

The role of ocean dynamics in the transient adjustment of the coupled climate system to an abrupt loss of Arctic sea ice is investigated using experiments with Community Climate System Model version 4 in two configurations: a thermodynamic slab mixed layer ocean and a full‐depth ocean that includes both dynamics and thermodynamics. Ocean dynamics produce a distinct sea surface temperature warming maximum in the eastern equatorial Pacific, accompanied by an equatorward intensification of the Intertropical Convergence Zone and Hadley Circulation. These tropical responses are established within 25 years of ice loss and contrast markedly with the quasi‐steady antisymmetric coupled response in the slab‐ocean configuration. A heat budget analysis reveals the importance of anomalous vertical advection tied to a monotonic temperature increase below 200 m for the equatorial sea surface temperature warming maximum in the fully coupled model. Ocean dynamics also rapidly modify the midlatitude atmospheric response to sea ice loss.
Translational attenuation and retinal degeneration in mice with an active integrated stress response
Authors: Starr Christopher R. , Pitale Priyamvada M. , Gorbatyuk Marina
Published: April 2018

An integrated stress response (ISR), identified in several different animal models of inherited retinal degeneration (IRD), is activated following various cellular stresses. The ISR results in the phosphorylation of eIF2α (p-eIF2α) and a consequent halt in protein synthesis. Although generally protective, persistent elevations in p-eIF2α could lead to cell demise. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether ISR activation is associated with diminished translation rates in mice with IRD. Retinal protein extracts from rd16 mice at different time points were analyzed and the retinal levels of protein synthesis were assessed using the SUnSET method. We found that rd16 mice experience persistent ISR activation: p-eIF2α, ATF4, and CHOP were significantly upregulated at P15 and P20. In agreement with ISR activation, we found that rd16 mice experience translational attenuation at P15. Similar to rd16, other IRD models, T17M RHO, and rd10 also demonstrated a decline in protein synthesis, correlating with p-eIF2α elevation. We then assessed the role of PERK and eIF2α in translational attenuation in rd16 using a PERK inhibitor, GSK2606414. We found that while the treatment significantly reduced p-eIF2α, it did not cause a complete recovery in translation. This suggests that eIF2α is not the only or even the primary point of translational control in IRD, and a second node of translational regulation comprising AKT and mTOR should be evaluated. Surprisingly, we found that AKT-mTOR signaling was diminished in rd16 and rd10 retinas, suggesting a potential link between AKT-mTOR and translational inhibition. Therefore, for the first time, this study shows translation attenuation in IRD models, and highlights the potential roles of eIF2α kinases and AKT-mTOR signaling that could grant valuable insight into the potential treatments for IRD.
Long non-coding RNA Lnc-Tim3 exacerbates CD8 T cell exhaustion via binding to Tim-3 and inducing nuclear translocation of Bat3 in HCC
Authors: Ji Jie , Yin Yin , Ju Huanyu , Xu Xiaoliang , Liu Wei , Fu Qiang , Hu Jiaojiao , Zhang Xudong , Sun Beicheng
Published: April 2018

Although one of the first comprehensive examinations of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression was performed in human CD8 T lymphocytes, little is known about their roles in CD8 T cells functions during the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we show that Lnc-Tim3 is upregulated and negatively correlates with IFN-γ and IL-2 production in tumor-infiltrating CD8 T cells of HCC patients. Lnc-Tim3 plays a pivotal role in stimulating CD8 T exhaustion and the survival of the exhausted CD8 T cells. Mechanistically, Lnc-Tim3 specifically binds to Tim-3 and blocks its interaction with Bat3, thus suppressing downstream Lck/ NFAT1/AP-1 signaling, leading to nuclear localization of Bat3, and enhancing p300-dependent p53 and RelA transcriptional activation of anti-apoptosis genes including MDM2 and Bcl-2. In summary, Lnc-Tim3 promotes T cell exhaustion, a phenotype which is correlated with compromised anti-tumor immunity, suggesting that Lnc-Tim3 and its associated signaling pathways may influence the outcome of cancer therapies aimed at modulating the acquired immune system.
C/EBPβ enhances platinum resistance of ovarian cancer cells by reprogramming H3K79 methylation
Authors: Liu Dan , Zhang Xiao-Xue , Li Meng-Chen , Cao Can-Hui , Wan Dong-Yi , Xi Bi-Xin , Tan Jia-Hong , Wang Ji , Yang Zong-Yuan , Feng Xin-Xia , Ye Fei , Chen Gang , Wu Peng , Xi Ling , Wang Hui , Zhou Jian-Feng , Feng Zuo-Hua , Ma Ding , Gao Qing-Lei
Published: April 2018

Chemoresistance is a major unmet clinical obstacle in ovarian cancer treatment. Epigenetics plays a pivotal role in regulating the malignant phenotype, and has the potential in developing therapeutically valuable targets that improve the dismal outcome of this disease. Here we show that a series of transcription factors, including C/EBPβ, GCM1, and GATA1, could act as potential modulators of histone methylation in tumor cells. Of note, C/EBPβ, an independent prognostic factor for patients with ovarian cancer, mediates an important mechanism through which epigenetic enzyme modifies groups of functionally related genes in a context-dependent manner. By recruiting the methyltransferase DOT1L, C/EBPβ can maintain an open chromatin state by H3K79 methylation of multiple drug-resistance genes, thereby augmenting the chemoresistance of tumor cells. Therefore, we propose a new path against cancer epigenetics in which identifying and targeting the key regulators of epigenetics such as C/EBPβ may provide more precise therapeutic options in ovarian cancer.
Porous polycarbene-bearing membrane actuator for ultrasensitive weak-acid detection and real-time chemical reaction monitoring
Authors: Sun Jian-Ke , Zhang Weiyi , Guterman Ryan , Lin Hui-Juan , Yuan Jiayin
Published: April 2018

Soft actuators with integration of ultrasensitivity and capability of simultaneous interaction with multiple stimuli through an entire event ask for a high level of structure complexity, adaptability, and/or multi-responsiveness, which is a great challenge. Here, we develop a porous polycarbene-bearing membrane actuator built up from ionic complexation between a poly(ionic liquid) and trimesic acid (TA). The actuator features two concurrent structure gradients, i.e., an electrostatic complexation (EC) degree and a density distribution of a carbene-NH3 adduct (CNA) along the membrane cross-section. The membrane actuator performs the highest sensitivity among the state-of-the-art soft proton actuators toward acetic acid at 10−6 mol L−1 (M) level in aqueous media. Through competing actuation of the two gradients, it is capable of monitoring an entire process of proton-involved chemical reactions that comprise multiple stimuli and operational steps. The present achievement constitutes a significant step toward real-life application of soft actuators in chemical sensing and reaction technology.
The RNA-binding protein YBX1 regulates epidermal progenitors at a posttranscriptional level
Authors: Kwon Eunjeong , Todorova Kristina , Wang Jun , Horos Rastislav , Lee Kevin K. , Neel Victor A. , Negri Gian Luca , Sorensen Poul H. , Lee Sam W. , Hentze Matthias W. , Mandinova Anna
Published: April 2018

The integrity of stratified epithelia depends on the ability of progenitor cells to maintain a balance between proliferation and differentiation. While much is known about the transcriptional pathways underlying progenitor cells’ behavior in the epidermis, the role of posttranscriptional regulation by mRNA binding proteins—a rate-limiting step in sculpting the proteome—remains poorly understood. Here we report that the RNA binding protein YBX1 (Y-box binding protein-1) is a critical effector of progenitors’ function in the epidermis. YBX1 expression is restricted to the cycling keratinocyte progenitors in vivo and its genetic ablation leads to defects in the architecture of the skin. We further demonstrate that YBX1 negatively controls epidermal progenitor senescence by regulating the translation of a senescence-associated subset of cytokine mRNAs via their 3′ untranslated regions. Our study establishes YBX1 as a posttranscriptional effector required for maintenance of epidermal homeostasis.
On Anderson Localization and Chiral Anomaly in Disordered Time-Reversal Invariant Weyl Semimetals: Nonperturbative and Berry Phase Effects
Authors: Makhfudz Imam
Published: April 2018

Weyl semimetal, a three-dimensional electronic system with relativistic linear energy dispersion around gapless points carrying nontrivial Berry charge, is predicted to exhibit a wealth of unique response and transport properties. A crucial question is whether those properties are robust against disorder and whether Anderson localization occurs. In this work, the effects of nonperturbative topological (vortex loop) excitations and Berry phase in disordered time-reversal invariant 3d Weyl semimetal are studied. It is shown that the chiral symmetry is restored in the nonlinear sigma model describing the diffusons upon disorder average as any net topological term and its delocalization result do not take effect at sufficiently short length scales. Anderson localization occurs at sufficiently strong disorder and we predict that chirality and related phenomena disappear at such transition. Nevertheless, we uncover a mechanism that originates from Berry phase that impedes such localization effect. We show the occurrence of destructive interference between the vortex loops and between scattering paths due to the the vortex loops’ Berry phase which resists the Anderson localization. We emphasize the applicability of our theory to the candidate Weyl materials where we point out the consistency of our theory with a recent experimental finding of the absent chiral anomaly in a noncentrosymmetric Weyl semimetal.
Author Correction: Correlative Evaluation of Mental and Physical Workload of Laparoscopic Surgeons Based on Surface Electromyography and Eye-tracking Signals
Authors: Zhang Jian-Yang , Liu Sheng-Lin , Feng Qing-Min , Gao Jia-Qi , Zhang Qiang
Published: April 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Development of an optogenetic toolkit for neural circuit dissection in squirrel monkeys
Authors: O’Shea Daniel J. , Kalanithi Paul , Ferenczi Emily A. , Hsueh Brian , Chandrasekaran Chandramouli , Goo Werapong , Diester Ilka , Ramakrishnan Charu , Kaufman Matthew T. , Ryu Stephen I. , Yeom Kristen W. , Deisseroth Karl , Shenoy Krishna V.
Published: April 2018

Optogenetic tools have opened a rich experimental landscape for understanding neural function and disease. Here, we present the first validation of eight optogenetic constructs driven by recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors and a WGA-Cre based dual injection strategy for projection targeting in a widely-used New World primate model, the common squirrel monkey Saimiri sciureus. We observed opsin expression around the local injection site and in axonal projections to downstream regions, as well as transduction to thalamic neurons, resembling expression patterns observed in macaques. Optical stimulation drove strong, reliable excitatory responses in local neural populations for two depolarizing opsins in anesthetized monkeys. Finally, we observed continued, healthy opsin expression for at least one year. These data suggest that optogenetic tools can be readily applied in squirrel monkeys, an important first step in enabling precise, targeted manipulation of neural circuits in these highly trainable, cognitively sophisticated animals. In conjunction with similar approaches in macaques and marmosets, optogenetic manipulation of neural circuits in squirrel monkeys will provide functional, comparative insights into neural circuits which subserve dextrous motor control as well as other adaptive behaviors across the primate lineage. Additionally, development of these tools in squirrel monkeys, a well-established model system for several human neurological diseases, can aid in identifying novel treatment strategies.
Being right, but losing money: the role of striatum in joint decision making
Authors: Ruissen M. I. , Overgaauw S. , de Bruijn E. R. A.
Published: April 2018

Joint decision-making entails that you sometimes have to go along with the other’s choice even though you disagree. In this situation, a resulting negative outcome may, however, elicit a feeling of satisfaction and an impulse to say “I told you so”. Using fMRI, we investigated the neural correlates of this complex process comprised of both positive and negative outcomes. During a social visual search task, 19 participants gave their advice to a co-actor who then made the decision resulting in a mutual loss or gain. This design allowed direct comparisons of situations that resulted in the same monetary outcome but that differed with respect to the correctness of the initial advice of the participant. Increased striatal activations were found for gains compared to losses and for correct compared to incorrect advice. Importantly, ROI analyses also showed enhanced striatum activation for monetary losses that were preceded by correct compared to incorrect advices. The current study therefore suggests that reward-related neural mechanisms may be involved when being right even in situations that end in monetary losses.
Impact of surface adhesion and sample heterogeneity on the multiscale mechanical characterisation of soft biomaterials
Authors: Megone W. , Roohpour N. , Gautrot J. E.
Published: April 2018

The mechanical properties of soft materials used in the biomedical field play an important role on their performance. In the field of tissue engineering, it is known that cells sense the mechanical properties of their environment, however some materials, such as Sylard 184 PDMS (poly(dimethylsiloxane)), have failed to elicit such response. It was proposed that differences in the mechanical properties of such soft materials, at different scales, could account for these discrepancies. Indeed, the variation in the elastic moduli obtained for soft materials characterised at different scales can span several orders of magnitude. This called for a side-by-side comparison of the mechanical behaviour of soft materials at different scales. Here we use indentation, rheology and atomic force microscopy nanoidentation (using different tip geometries) to characterise the mechanical properties of PDMS, poly(acrylamide) (PAAm) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) hydrogels at different length scales. Our results highlight the importance of surface adhesion and the resulting changes in contact area, and sample microstructural heterogeneity, in particular for the mechanical characterisation of ultra-soft substrates at the nano- to micro-scale.
Additive and interactive effects of spatial attention and expectation on perceptual decisions
Authors: Zuanazzi Arianna , Noppeney Uta
Published: April 2018

Spatial attention and expectation are two critical top-down mechanisms controlling perceptual inference. Based on previous research it remains unclear whether their influence on perceptual decisions is additive or interactive. We developed a novel multisensory approach that orthogonally manipulated spatial attention (i.e. task-relevance) and expectation (i.e. signal probability) selectively in audition and evaluated their effects on observers’ responses in vision. Critically, while experiment 1 manipulated expectation directly via the probability of task-relevant auditory targets across hemifields, experiment 2 manipulated it indirectly via task-irrelevant auditory non-targets. Surprisingly, our results demonstrate that spatial attention and signal probability influence perceptual decisions either additively or interactively. These seemingly contradictory results can be explained parsimoniously by a model that combines spatial attention, general and spatially selective response probabilities as predictors with no direct influence of signal probability. Our model provides a novel perspective on how spatial attention and expectation facilitate effective interactions with the environment.
Publisher Correction: Spatial Organization of the Gastrointestinal Microbiota in Urban Canada Geese
Authors: Drovetski Sergei V. , O’Mahoney Michael , Ransome Emma J. , Matterson Kenan O. , Lim Haw Chuan , Chesser R. Terry , Graves Gary R.
Published: April 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Ocular higher-order aberrations and axial eye growth in young Hong Kong children
Authors: Lau Jason K. , Vincent Stephen J. , Collins Michael J. , Cheung Sin-Wan , Cho Pauline
Published: April 2018

This retrospective longitudinal analysis aimed to investigate the association between ocular higher-order aberrations (HOAs) and axial eye growth in Hong Kong children. Measures of axial length and ocular HOAs under cycloplegia were obtained annually over a two-year period from 137 subjects aged 8.8 ± 1.4 years with mean spherical equivalent refraction of −2.04 ± 2.38 D. A significant negative association was observed between the RMS of total HOAs and axial eye growth (P = 0.03), after adjusting for other significant predictors of axial length including age, sex and refractive error. Similar negative associations with axial elongation were found for the RMS of spherical aberrations ($${{\rm{Z}}}_{4}^{0}$$

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and $${{\rm{Z}}}_{6}^{0}$$

Z

6

0

combined) (P = 0.037). Another linear mixed model also showed that greater levels of vertical trefoil $$({{\rm{Z}}}_{3}^{-3})$$
(

Z

3

−
3

)
, primary spherical aberration $$({{\rm{Z}}}_{4}^{0})$$
(

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)
and negative oblique trefoil $$({{\rm{Z}}}_{3}^{3})$$
(

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were associated with slower axial elongation and longer axial length (all P < 0.05). These findings support the potential role of HOAs, image quality and a vision-dependent mechanism in childhood eye growth.
Mercury transport and human exposure from global marine fisheries
Authors: Lavoie Raphael A. , Bouffard Ariane , Maranger Roxane , Amyot Marc
Published: April 2018

Human activities have increased the global circulation of mercury, a potent neurotoxin. Mercury can be converted into methylmercury, which biomagnifies along aquatic food chains and leads to high exposure in fish-eating populations. Here we quantify temporal trends in the ocean-to-land transport of total mercury and methylmercury from fisheries and we estimate potential human mercury intake through fish consumption in 175 countries. Mercury export from the ocean increased over time as a function of fishing pressure, especially on upper-trophic-level organisms. In 2014, over 13 metric tonnes of mercury were exported from the ocean. Asian countries were important contributors of mercury export in the last decades and the western Pacific Ocean was identified as the main source. Estimates of per capita mercury exposure through fish consumption showed that populations in 38% of the 175 countries assessed, mainly insular and developing nations, were exposed to doses of methylmercury above governmental thresholds. Our study shows temporal trends and spatial patterns of Hg transport by fisheries. Given the high mercury intake through seafood consumption observed in several understudied yet vulnerable coastal communities, we recommend a comprehensive assessment of the health exposure risk of those populations.
Resting-state fMRI study of brain activation using low-intensity repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in rats
Authors: Seewoo Bhedita J. , Feindel Kirk W. , Etherington Sarah J. , Rodger Jennifer
Published: April 2018

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique used to treat many neuropsychiatric conditions. However, the mechanisms underlying its mode of action are still unclear. This is the first rodent study using resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) to examine low-intensity (LI) rTMS effects, in an effort to provide a direct means of comparison between rodent and human studies. Using anaesthetised Sprague-Dawley rats, rs-fMRI data were acquired before and after control or LI-rTMS at 1 Hz, 10 Hz, continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) or biomimetic high-frequency stimulation (BHFS). Independent component analysis revealed LI-rTMS-induced changes in the resting-state networks (RSN): (i) in the somatosensory cortex, the synchrony of resting activity decreased ipsilaterally following 10 Hz and bilaterally following 1 Hz stimulation and BHFS, and increased ipsilaterally following cTBS; (ii) the motor cortex showed bilateral changes following 1 Hz and 10 Hz stimulation, a contralateral decrease in synchrony following BHFS, and an ipsilateral increase following cTBS; and (iii) hippocampal synchrony decreased ipsilaterally following 10 Hz, and bilaterally following 1 Hz stimulation and BHFS. The present findings demonstrate that LI-rTMS modulates functional links within the rat RSN with frequency-specific outcomes, and the observed changes are similar to those described in humans following rTMS.
Probing the Structural and Electronic Properties of Dirhenium Halide Clusters: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Zhang Li Huan , Xia Xin Xin , Sun Wei Guo , Lu Cheng , Kuang Xiao Yu , Le Chen Bo , Maroulis George
Published: April 2018

Dirhenium halide dianions received considerable attention in past decades due to the unusual metal–metal quadruple bond. The systematic structural evolution of dirhenium halide clusters has not been sufficiently studied and hence is not well-understood. In this work, we report an in-depth investigation on the structures and electronic properties of doubly charged dirhenium halide clusters Re2X82− (X = F, Cl, Br, I). Our computational efforts rely on the well-tested unbiased CALYPSO (Crystal structure AnaLYsis by Particle Swarm Optimization) method combined with density functional theory calculations. We find that all ground-state Re2X82− clusters have cube-like structures of D4h symmetry with two Re atoms encapsulated in halogen framework. The reasonable agreement between the simulated and experimental photoelectron spectrum of the Re2Cl82− cluster supports strongly the reliability of our computational strategy. The chemical bonding analysis reveals that the δ bond is the pivotal factor for the ground-state Re2X82− (X = F, Cl, Br, I) clusters to maintain D4h symmetric cube-like structures, and the enhanced stability of Re2Cl82− is mainly attributed to the chemical bonding of 5d orbital of Re atoms and 3p orbital of Cl atoms.
Decolorization of recalcitrant dyes by a multicopper oxidase produced by Iodidimonas sp. Q-1 with iodide as a novel inorganic natural redox mediator
Authors: Taguchi Taro , Ebihara Kyota , Yanagisaki Chihiro , Yoshikawa Jun , Horiguchi Hirofumi , Amachi Seigo
Published: April 2018

A multicopper oxidase (IOX) produced by Iodidimonas sp. Q-1 has high catalytic efficiency for iodide (I−) oxidation to form molecular iodine (I2). In this study, the potential capacity of IOX for decolorization of recalcitrant dyes was determined. Although IOX did not decolorize any dyes in the absence of redox mediator, significant decolorization of Orange G, Indigo Carmine, Amido Black, and Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR) was observed in the presence of iodide. Addition of 0.1 mM iodide was sufficient to decolorize a total of 3 mM Indigo Carmine, suggesting that iodide functions as a mediator. Such mediator-like function of iodide was not observed in commercially available fungal laccases. The IOX-iodide decolorization system showed much alkaline pH optima of 5.5–6.5 and stronger salt tolerance than fungal laccases did. In addition, actual wastewater discharged from a dyeing factory could be decolorized more than 50% by the system. Since iodide is naturally occurring, non-toxic, and cheaper than common synthetic mediators, the IOX-iodide system is potentially more advantageous than fungal laccase-mediator systems for decolorization of recalcitrant dyes.
Hsp90 inhibition as a means to inhibit activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome
Authors: Piippo Niina , Korhonen Eveliina , Hytti Maria , Skottman Heli , Kinnunen Kati , Josifovska Natasha , Petrovski Goran , Kaarniranta Kai , Kauppinen Anu
Published: April 2018

Once activated, the intracellular receptor NLRP3 assembles an inflammasome protein complex that facilitates the caspase-1-mediated maturation of IL-1β and IL-18. Inactive NLRP3 is guarded by a protein complex containing Hsp90. In response to stress stimuli, Hsp90 is released, and NLRP3 can be activated to promote inflammation. In this study, we blocked Hsp90 with geldanamycin and studied the fate of NLRP3 in human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. RPE cells play a central role in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a progressive eye disease causing severe vision loss in the elderly. IL-1α-primed ARPE-19 cells, human embryonal stem cell (hESC)-derived RPE cells, and primary human RPE cells were exposed to MG-132 and bafilomycin A to activate NLRP3 via the inhibition of proteasomes and autophagy, respectively. Additionally, RPE cells were treated with geldanamycin at different time points and the levels of NLRP3 and IL-1β were determined. Caspase-1 activity was measured using a commercial assay. Geldanamycin prevented the activation of the inflammasome in human RPE cells. NLRP3 released from its protective complex became degraded by autophagy or secreted from the cells. Controlled destruction of NLRP3 is a potential way to regulate the inflammation associated with chronic diseases, such as AMD.
Structural characteristics and membrane interactions of tandem α-synuclein oligomers
Authors: Dong Chunhua , Hoffmann Marion , Li Xi , Wang Meijing , Garen Craig R. , Petersen Nils O. , Woodside Michael T.
Published: April 2018

Pre-fibrillar oligomers of α-synuclein are thought to be pathogenic molecules leading to neurotoxicity associated with Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. However, small oligomers are difficult to isolate for study. To gain better insight into the properties of small α-synuclein oligomers, we investigated engineered oligomers of specific size (dimers, tetramers, and octamers) linked head-to-tail in tandem, comparing the behavior of the oligomers to monomeric α-synuclein. All oligomeric constructs remained largely disordered in solution, as determined from dynamic light scattering and size-exclusion chromatography. Electron microscopy revealed that each construct could aggregate to form fibrils similar to those formed by monomeric α-synuclein. The interactions with large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) composed of negatively-charged lipids differed depending on size, with smaller oligomers forming more extensive helical structure as determined by CD spectroscopy. Monitoring the influx of a fluorescence bleaching agent into vesicles showed that larger oligomers were somewhat more effective at degrading vesicular integrity and inducing membrane permeabilization.
Artifact Removal using Improved GoogLeNet for Sparse-view CT Reconstruction
Authors: Xie Shipeng , Zheng Xinyu , Chen Yang , Xie Lizhe , Liu Jin , Zhang Yudong , Yan Jingjie , Zhu Hu , Hu Yining
Published: April 2018

Sparse-view Reconstruction can be used to provide accelerated low dose CT imaging with both accelerated scan and reduced projection/back-projection calculation. Despite the rapid developments, image noise and artifacts still remain a major issue in the low dose protocol. In this paper, a deep learning based method named Improved GoogLeNet is proposed to remove streak artifacts due to projection missing in sparse-view CT reconstruction. Residual learning is used in GoogLeNet to study the artifacts of sparse-view CT reconstruction, and then subtracts the artifacts obtained by learning from the sparse reconstructed images, finally recovers a clear correction image. The intensity of reconstruction using the proposed method is very close to the full-view projective reconstructed image. The results indicate that the proposed method is practical and effective for reducing the artifacts and preserving the quality of the reconstructed image.
First long-term detection of paleo-oceanic signature of dust aerosol at the southern marginal area of the Taklimakan Desert
Authors: Zhou Qi , Li Juan , Xu Jian , Qin Xiaofei , Deng Congrui , Fu Joshua S. , Wang Qiongzhen , Yiming Mijiti , Huang Kan , Zhuang Guoshun
Published: April 2018

We firstly conducted a long-term in-situ field measurement at a marginal area (Hotan) of the southern Taklimakan Desert covering all four seasons. Detailed chemical characterization of dust aerosol over Hotan showed several unconventional features, including (1) ubiquity of high Na+ and Cl− abundances in the Taklimakan dust aerosol and its Cl−/Na+ ratio close to seawater; (2) high Ca content in the Taklimakan dust (7.4~8.0%) which was about two times of that in the natural crust; (3) high abundance of soluble sulfate concentrations and strong correlations between sulfate and Na+ and Cl− as well as typical mineral tracers such as Al and Ca. Our results collectively indicated that the dust aerosol from the Taklimakan Desert was characterized of evident paelo-oceanic signature as the Taklimakan Desert was found as an ocean in the ancient times from the perspective of paleogeology. It was estimated that primary sources dominated the total abundances of sulfate during the dust seasons while previous climate modeling works had seldom considered the cooling effects of sulfate from the Taklimakan Desert.
Concordant association validates MGMT methylation and protein expression as favorable prognostic factors in glioma patients on alkylating chemotherapy (Temozolomide)
Authors: Pandith Arshad A. , Qasim Iqbal , Zahoor Wani , Shah Parveen , Bhat Abdul R. , Sanadhya Dheera , Shah Zafar A. , Naikoo Niyaz A.
Published: April 2018

O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation and its subsequent loss of protein expression has been identified to have a variable impact on clinical outcome of glioma patients indicated for chemotherapy with alkylating agents (Temozolomide). This study investigated methylation status of MGMT gene along with in situ protein expression in malignant glioma patients of different histological types to evaluate the associated clinical outcome vis-a-vis use of alkylating drugs and radiotherapy. Sixty three cases of glioma were evaluated for MGMT promoter methylation by methylation-specific PCR (MS-PCR) and protein expression by immunostaining (IHC). Methylation status of MGMT and loss of protein expression showed a very high concordant association with better survival and progression free survival (PFS) (p < 0.0001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed both MGMT methylation and loss of protein as significant independent prognostic factors in glioma patients with respect to lower Hazard Ratio (HR) for better OS and PFS) [p < 0.05]. Interestingly concordant MGMT methylation and lack of protein showed better response in TMZ therapy treated patient subgroups with HR of 2.02 and 0.76 (p < 0.05). We found the merits of prognostication of MGMT parameters, methylation as well as loss of its protein as predictive factors for favorable outcome in terms of better survival for TMZ therapy.
Publisher Correction: Inhibitory modulation of cytochrome c oxidase activity with specific near-infrared light wavelengths attenuates brain ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Sanderson Thomas H. , Wider Joseph M. , Lee Icksoo , Reynolds Christian A. , Liu Jenney , Lepore Bradley , Tousignant Reneé , Bukowski Melissa J. , Johnston Hollie , Fite Alemu , Raghunayakula Sarita , Kamholz John , Grossman Lawrence I. , Przyklenk Karin , Hüttemann Maik
Published: April 2018

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