bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stereotactic body radiation therapy for non-small cell lung cancer patients with prior history of thoracic surgery and/or radiation therapy: the influence of smoking, size, and central location on risk of complications
Authors: Chan Jason W. , Johnson Julian , Lazar Ann A. , Braunstein Steve E. , Descovich Martina , Gottschalk Alexander R. , Yom Sue S.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the effect of tumor location and other major factors on the risk of complications from stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with a history of thoracic surgery and/or radiation therapy.

Methods

Medical records of patients with recurrent or second primary NSCLC treated with SBRT between 2005 and 2015 were reviewed. All patients had prior thoracic surgery and/or radiation therapy and were treated with image-guided, robotic SBRT. Time to local failure and toxicity was evaluated by using cumulative incidence and competing risk regression analysis. Overall survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

Fifty-six patients with 74 tumors treated with SBRT were included for analysis. Of the 74 tumors, 19 (26%) were centrally located within 2 cm of the proximal bronchial tree. At a median follow-up of 27 months (range = 5–129), the 2-year cumulative incidence of LF was 13% for peripheral tumors and 16% for central tumors (p = 0.95). Neither prior thoracic surgery nor radiation therapy was associated with increased LF or toxicity. Among the 56 patients, eight (14%), three (5%), and one (2%) experienced grade 2, 3, and 4 complications following SBRT. Patients with a ≥ 50 pack-year smoking history were more likely to develop ≥ grade 2 toxicity (HR 5.3; 95% CI 1.4–19.9,p = 0.01). Central tumor location was associated with higher risk of toxicity (HR 3.4; 95% CI 1.1–10.5,p = 0.04) as was planning tumor volume > 30 mL (HR 4.3; 95% CI 1.1–16.3,p = 0.047). In a multivariable model, central location remained significant after adjusting for smoking history and planning tumor volume.

Conclusions

After prior thoracic surgery and/or radiation, SBRT retreatment for NSCLC provided durable local control and was well tolerated in most patients. Patients with a history of previously operated and/or radiated lung cancer with new central tumors, PTV volume > 30 mL, or smoking history ≥ 50 pack-years were at higher risk of complications from SBRT.
Sensitivity of mountain glacier mass balance to changes in bare-ice albedo
Authors: Naegeli Kathrin , Huss Matthias
Published: October 2017

Albedo is an important parameter in the energy balance of bare-ice surfaces and modulates glacier melt rates. The prolongation of the ablation period enforces the albedo feedback and highlights the need for profound knowledge on impacts of bare-ice albedo on glacier mass balance. In this study, we assess the mass balance sensitivity of 12 Swiss glaciers with abundant long-term in-situ data on changes in bare-ice albedo. We use pixel-based bare-ice albedo derived from Landsat 8. A distributed mass-balance model is applied to the period 1997–2016 and experiments are performed to assess the impact of albedo changes on glacier mass balance. Our results indicate that glacier-wide mass-balance sensitivities to changes in bare-ice albedo correlate strongly with mean annual mass balances (r2= 0.81). Large alpine glaciers react more sensitively to bare-ice albedo changes due to their ablation areas being situated at lower elevations. We find average sensitivities of glacier-wide mass balance of −0.14 m w.e. a−1per 0.1 albedo decrease. Although this value is considerably smaller than sensitivity to air temperature change, we stress the importance of the enhanced albedo feedback that will be amplified due to atmospheric warming and a suspected darkening of glacier surface in the near future.
Perceived Workplace Interpersonal Support Among Workers of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plants Following the 2011 Accident: The Fukushima Nuclear Energy Workers’ Support (NEWS) Project Study
Authors: Takahashi Sho , Shigemura Jun , Takahashi Yoshitomo , Nomura Soichiro , Yoshino Aihide , Tanigawa Takeshi
Published: October 2017

Objective

The 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident was the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl. The Daiichi workers faced multiple stressors (workplace trauma, victim experiences, and public criticism deriving from their company’s post-disaster management). Literatures suggest the importance of workplace interpersonal support (WIS) in enhancing psychological health among disaster workers. We sought to elucidate the role of their demographics, disaster-related experiences, and post-traumatic stress symptoms on perceived WIS.

Methods

We analyzed self-report questionnaires of 885 workers 2-3 months post-disaster. We used sociodemographic and disaster exposure-related variables and post-traumatic stress symptoms (measured by the Impact of Event Scale-Revised) as independent variables. We asked whether WIS from colleagues, supervisors, or subordinates was perceived as helpful, and used yes or no responses as a dependent variable. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess correlates of WIS.

Results

Of the participants, one-third (34.7%) reported WIS. WIS was associated with younger age (20-28 years [vs 49-], adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.99-5.32), supervisory work status (aOR: 2.30, 95% CI: 1.35-3.92), and discrimination or slur experience (aOR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.08-2.53).

Conclusions

Educational programs focusing on WIS might be beneficial to promote psychological well-being among nuclear disaster workers, especially younger workers, supervisors, and workers with discrimination experiences. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018;12:460–463)
Renewing the Body of Christ: Sharing of Ministries Abroad (SOMA) USA and Transnational Charismatic Anglicanism, 1978–1998
Authors: MAIDEN JOHN
Published: October 2017

Sharing of Ministries Abroad (SOMA) was formed in the late 1970s as an international organization for the cultivation of charismatic renewal amongst leaderships within the global Anglican Communion. This article explores the ethos and activities of its American national body. It argues that its short term, cross-cultural missions increasingly displayed mutuality and long-term partnership rather than one-directional American influence, and thus reflected a developing shift in the understanding and practice of global mission in the late twentieth century. The organiztion shaped awareness of the global Church amongst some US Episcopalians and constructed an influential transnational network within charismatic Anglicanism. Furthermore, SOMA's network was one context for the emergence of global North–South conservative solidarity in the politics of the Anglican Communion.
Catching up: the state and potential of historical catch data from Svalbard in the European Arctic
Authors: Kruse Frigga
Published: October 2017

Svalbard in the European Arctic has a well-documented history of natural resource exploitation. Since its discovery in 1596, the archipelago has witnessed phases of commercial whaling, sealing, fur hunting and fishing. Scientists, trophy hunters and miners have also added to the depletion of wildlife. The magnitude, scale and speed of the hunt, however, remain largely unknown. This paper collates historical catch data of five selected species of game animal from published written and archaeological sources. These species include the bowhead whale, the Atlantic walrus, the polar bear, the Arctic fox and the Svalbard reindeer. The paper thereby aims to quantify the anthropogenic pressure on Svalbard's ecosystems over more than four centuries. This quantification is only moderately successful. The incomplete record prevents the use of this catch data as a suitable indicator of human-induced ecosystem change. To advance the state of knowledge, the paper recommends a return to the primary sources across international archives, libraries and museum collections, and outlines steps with which to arrive at the much needed time-depth in Svalbard historical ecology.
The race paradox in subjective wellbeing among older Americans
Authors: TANG FENGYAN , JANG HEEJUNG , RAUKTIS MARY BETH , MUSA DONALD , BEACH SCOTT
Published: October 2017

This study aims to assess racial differences in subjective wellbeing (SWB) and to examine whether the pathways of social support and social engagement to SWB vary by racial groups in the United States of America. Using a local sample (N = 1,035) and a nationally representative sample of the Health and Retirement Study (N = 7,718), we compared life satisfaction and happiness between non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks aged 55 and over. We evaluated the extent to which race, other socio-demographic characteristics, health, social engagement and social support explained the variances in SWB and examined the moderation effects of race on the relationships of SWB with age, social support and social engagement. Multiple regression analyses showed that non-Hispanic Blacks were at least as satisfied as, and even happier than White peers, after equalising social resources and health variables. Social support was significantly related to SWB, and it seemed that positive support was more important to Whites than to Blacks in predicting life satisfaction. In addition, the racial crossover effect existed, that is, the old-old (80+) Blacks were happier than their White peers. Findings indicate a national trend of the race paradox in SWB and underscore the importance of social support in promoting older adults’ wellbeing. Future research is recommended to investigate other potential mechanisms among Black older Americans to explain their relatively better SWB.
Trends in Political Science Research and the Progress of Comparative Politics
Authors: Wilson Matthew Charles
Published: October 2017

This article illustrates major trends in political science research and frames the progress of research agendas in comparative politics. Drawing on the titles and abstracts of every article published in eight major political science journals between 1906 and 2015, the study tracks the frequency of references to specific keywords over time. The analysis corresponds to and complements extant descriptions of how the field has developed, providing evidence of three ‘revolutions’ that shaped comparative politics—the divorce of political science from history during its early years, a behavioral revolution that lasted until the late 1960s, and a second scientific revolution after 1989 characterized by greater empiricism. Understanding the development of the subdiscipline, and viewing it through the research published in political science over the last 100 years, provides useful context for teaching future comparativists and encourages scholars to think more broadly about the research traditions to which they are contributing.
Pushing the Envelope of Pedagogical Gaming: Dark Networks
Authors: Freeman Michael E.
Published: October 2017

In recent decades, instructors have increasingly adopted the use of “serious” games in their classrooms. Typically, these games take the form of role-playing simulations or wargames. However, online computer-run games have opened up new possibilities: to explore complex conceptual relationships, to utilize and display asymmetric information, to be playable anywhere and by anyone, and more. This article describes the game, Dark Networks, and shows why this type of game is valuable as well as how it has been used for pedagogical gains.
Productivity and water use of organic wheat–chickpea intercropping system under limited moisture conditions in Northwest India
Authors: Singh Balwinder , Aulakh C.S. , Walia S.S.
Published: October 2017

Intercropping of legumes in cereals and manuring are important measures to sustain soil fertility and enhance crop productivity in general and under organic and limited moisture conditions in particular. This study evaluated different wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) + chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) row ratios as intercrops under organic and limited moisture conditions in Northwest India with an aim to find out the suitable row ratio to get higher system productivity under these conditions. Chickpea, being a legume, produces nitrogen compounds that help the plant to grow itself and also makes them available to the companion wheat plants and thus helps in wheat nutrition, which otherwise becomes limited due to less mineralization of nitrogen under organic and cold weather conditions. The primary aim of the study was to get better productivity of wheat crop as this is an assured crop of this region. The intercropping system was evaluated in a randomized complete block design with four replications at Ludhiana, Punjab in Northwest India during 2013–2014 and 2014–2015. Effective tillers m−1 row length, number of grains spike−1 and 1000-grain weight of wheat were higher in wheat + chickpea (2:1) intercropping system as compared with sole wheat. This intercropping system produced significantly higher wheat grain yield, wheat equivalent yield and land equivalent ratio than sole wheat. Wheat + chickpea (2:1) and wheat + chickpea (3:1) intercropping systems gave higher water-use efficiency than sole wheat. However, chickpea gave higher yield attributes and seed yield as sole crop than that in different intercropping systems. Wheat + chickpea (2:1) and wheat + chickpea (3:1) intercropping systems produced mean wheat grain yields of 5.11 and 4.79 Mg ha−1, respectively, along with additional mean chickpea seed yields of 0.28 and 0.24 Mg ha−1, respectively.
What do good governments actually do?: An analysis using European procurement data
Authors: Popa Mircea
Published: October 2017

This article looks at what good and bad governments do when performing one of their most central functions, namely public procurement. Some 1.5 million public contracts from across Europe are analyzed through statistical models that compare contracting patterns between good- and poor-governance regions. At the most basic level, the results can be interpreted as a rejection of a conventional view of the relation between governance and institutional choices and outcomes. It isnotthe case that poorly governed jurisdictions allow more discretion to public officials, that they impose more limits on access to markets, or that they clearly feature more competition, and in fact the opposite often holds. Going beyond this negative finding, the article argues that an alternative view of institutional choice and its connection with governance, in which some discretion and flexibility is desirable, can provide a better explanation of observed patterns, and can have important implications for institutional design.
Promoting Well-Being by Teaching Employees How to Segment Their Life Domains
Authors: Rexroth Miriam , Michel Alexandra , Bosch Christine
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Changes in technology, economy, and demography have generated today’s mobile and flexible workplace. These aspects, while leading to more permeable boundaries, render it more difficult to manage the boundaries between life domains. We conducted a quasi-experimental study to evaluate the effects of an intervention teaching mindfulness as a cognitive–emotional segmentation strategy to promote well-being. In all, 191 employees participated in the 3-week online self-training intervention and completed the preintervention–postintervention and follow-up questionnaires. As expected, the experimental group participants compared to the control group participants experienced significantly less emotional exhaustion and negative affect, and significantly more life satisfaction. Moreover, we could show that boundary management competency can be improved with an online-based self-training intervention.
Vitamin D and calcium are required at the time of denosumab administration during osteoporosis treatment
Authors: Nakamura Yukio , Suzuki Takako , Kamimura Mikio , Murakami Kohei , Ikegami Shota , Uchiyama Shigeharu , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: October 2017

To evaluate the differences in outcomes of treatment with denosumab alone or denosumab combined with vitamin D and calcium supplementation in patients with primary osteoporosis. Patients were split into a denosumab monotherapy group (18 cases) or a denosumab plus vitamin D supplementation group (combination group; 23 cases). We measured serum bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP)-5b and urinary N-terminal telopeptide of type-I collagen (NTX) at baseline, 1 week, as well as at 1 month and 2, 4, 8 and 12 months. We also measured bone mineral density (BMD) of L1–4 lumbar vertebrae (L)-BMD and bilateral hips (H)-BMD at baseline and at 4, 8 and 12 months. There was no significant difference in patient background. TRACP-5b and urinary NTX were significantly suppressed in both groups from 1 week to 12 months (except at 12 months for NTX). In the combination group, TRACP-5b was significantly decreased compared with the denosumab monotherapy group at 2 and 4 months (P<0.05). BAP was significantly suppressed in both groups at 2–12 months. L-BMD significantly increased at 8 and 12 months (8.9%) in the combination group and at 4, 8 and 12 months (6.0%) in the denosumab monotherapy group, compared with those before treatment. H-BMD was significantly increased in the combination group (3.6%) compared with the denosumab group (1.2%) at 12 months (P<0.05). Compared with denosumab monotherapy, combination therapy of denosumab with vitamin D and calcium stopped the decrease in calcium caused by denosumab, inhibited bone metabolism to a greater extent, and increased BMD (especially at the hips).
Advances in the management of oesophageal motility disorders in the era of high-resolution manometry: a focus on achalasia syndromes
Authors:   on behalf of the International Working Group for Disorders of Gastrointestinal Motility and Function, Kahrilas Peter J. , Bredenoord Albert J. , Fox Mark , Gyawali C. Prakash , Roman Sabine , Smout André J.P.M. , Pandolfino John E.
Published: October 2017

High-resolution manometry (HRM) and new analysis algorithms, summarized in the Chicago Classification, have led to a restructured classification of oesophageal motility disorders. This advance has led to increased detection of clinically relevant disorders, in particular achalasia. It has become apparent that the cardinal feature of achalasia — impaired lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation — can occur in several disease phenotypes: without peristalsis (type I), with pan-oesophageal pressurization (type II), with premature (spastic) distal oesophageal contractions (type III), or with preserved peristalsis (outlet obstruction). Furthermore, no manometric pattern is perfectly sensitive or specific for achalasia caused by a myenteric plexopathy, and there is no biomarker for this pathology. Consequently, physiological testing reveals other syndromes not meeting achalasia criteria that also benefit from therapies formerly reserved for achalasia. These findings have become particularly relevant with the development of a minimally invasive technique for performing a long oesophageal myotomy, the per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Optimal management is to render treatment in a phenotype-specific manner; that is, POEM calibrated to patient-specific physiology for spastic achalasia and the spastic disorders, and more conservative strategies such as pneumatic dilation for the disorders limited to the LES. This Consensus Statement examines the effect of HRM on our understanding of oesophageal motility disorders, with a focus on the diagnosis, epidemiology and management of achalasia and achalasia-like syndromes.
Origami-based tunable truss structures for non-volatile mechanical memory operation
Authors: Yasuda Hiromi , Tachi Tomohiro , Lee Mia , Yang Jinkyu
Published: October 2017

Origami has recently received significant interest from the scientific community as a method for designing building blocks to construct metamaterials. However, the primary focus has been placed on their kinematic applications by leveraging the compactness and auxeticity of planar origami platforms. Here, we present volumetric origami cells—specifically triangulated cylindrical origami (TCO)—with tunable stability and stiffness, and demonstrate their feasibility as non-volatile mechanical memory storage devices. We show that a pair of TCO cells can develop a double-well potential to store bit information. What makes this origami-based approach more appealing is the realization of two-bit mechanical memory, in which two pairs of TCO cells are interconnected and one pair acts as a control for the other pair. By assembling TCO-based truss structures, we experimentally verify the tunable nature of the TCO units and demonstrate the operation of purely mechanical one- and two-bit memory storage prototypes.
A novel Fer/FerT targeting compound selectively evokes metabolic stress and necrotic death in malignant cells
Authors: Elkis Yoav , Cohen Moshe , Yaffe Etai , Satmary-Tusk Shirly , Feldman Tal , Hikri Elad , Nyska Abraham , Feiglin Ariel , Ofran Yanay , Shpungin Sally , Nir Uri
Published: October 2017

Disruption of the reprogrammed energy management system of malignant cells is a prioritized goal of targeted cancer therapy. Two regulators of this system are the Fer kinase, and its cancer cell specific variant, FerT, both residing in subcellular compartments including the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Here, we show that a newly developed inhibitor of Fer and FerT, E260, selectively evokes metabolic stress in cancer cells by imposing mitochondrial dysfunction and deformation, and onset of energy-consuming autophagy which decreases the cellular ATP level. Notably, Fer was also found to associate with PARP-1 and E260 disrupted this association thereby leading to PARP-1 activation. The cooperative intervention with these metabolic pathways leads to energy crisis and necrotic death in malignant, but not in normal human cells, and to the suppression of tumors growth in vivo. Thus, E260 is a new anti-cancer agent which imposes metabolic stress and cellular death in cancer cells.
Selective binding of choline by a phosphate-coordination-based triple helicate featuring an aromatic box
Authors: Jia Chuandong , Zuo Wei , Yang Dong , Chen Yanming , Cao Liping , Custelcean Radu , Hostaš Jiří , Hobza Pavel , Glaser Robert , Wang Yao-Yu , Yang Xiao-Juan , Wu Biao
Published: October 2017

In nature, proteins have evolved sophisticated cavities tailored for capturing target guests selectively among competitors of similar size, shape, and charge. The fundamental principles guiding the molecular recognition, such as self-assembly and complementarity, have inspired the development of biomimetic receptors. In the current work, we report a self-assembled triple anion helicate (host 2) featuring a cavity resembling that of the choline-binding protein ChoX, as revealed by crystal and density functional theory (DFT)-optimized structures, which binds choline in a unique dual-site-binding mode. This similarity in structure leads to a similarly high selectivity of host 2 for choline over its derivatives, as demonstrated by the NMR and fluorescence competition experiments. Furthermore, host 2 is able to act as a fluorescence displacement sensor for discriminating choline, acetylcholine, l-carnitine, and glycine betaine effectively.
Myoblasts and macrophages are required for therapeutic morpholino antisense oligonucleotide delivery to dystrophic muscle
Authors: Novak James S. , Hogarth Marshall W. , Boehler Jessica F. , Nearing Marie , Vila Maria C. , Heredia Raul , Fiorillo Alyson A. , Zhang Aiping , Hathout Yetrib , Hoffman Eric P. , Jaiswal Jyoti K. , Nagaraju Kanneboyina , Cirak Sebahattin , Partridge Terence A.
Published: October 2017

Exon skipping is a promising therapeutic strategy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), employing morpholino antisense oligonucleotides (PMO-AO) to exclude disruptive exons from the mutant DMD transcript and elicit production of truncated dystrophin protein. Clinical trials for PMO show variable and sporadic dystrophin rescue. Here, we show that robust PMO uptake and efficient production of dystrophin following PMO administration coincide with areas of myofiber regeneration and inflammation. PMO localization is sustained in inflammatory foci where it enters macrophages, actively differentiating myoblasts and newly forming myotubes. We conclude that efficient PMO delivery into muscle requires two concomitant events: first, accumulation and retention of PMO within inflammatory foci associated with dystrophic lesions, and second, fusion of PMO-loaded myoblasts into repairing myofibers. Identification of these factors accounts for the variability in clinical trials and suggests strategies to improve this therapeutic approach to DMD.
NMI and IFP35 serve as proinflammatory DAMPs during cellular infection and injury
Authors: Xiahou Zhikai , Wang Xiangli , Shen Juan , Zhu Xiaoxiao , Xu Feng , Hu Rong , Guo Deyin , Li Henan , Tian Yong , Liu Yingfang , Liang Huanhuan
Published: October 2017

Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMP) trigger innate immune response and exacerbate inflammation to combat infection and cellular damage. Identifying DAMPs and revealing their functions are thus of crucial importance. Here we report that two molecules, N-myc and STAT interactor (NMI) and interferon-induced protein 35 (IFP35) act as DAMPs and are released by activated macrophages during lipopolysaccharide-induced septic shock or acetaminophen-induced liver injury. We show that extracellular NMI and IFP35 activate macrophages to release proinflammatory cytokines by activating nuclear factor-κB through the Toll-like receptor 4 pathway. In addition, the serum levels of NMI are increased in patients who succumbed to severe inflammation. NMI deficiency reduces inflammatory responses and mortality in mouse models of sepsis and liver injury. We therefore propose that extracellular NMI and IFP35 exacerbate inflammation as DAMPs, making them potential therapeutic targets for clinical intervention.
PKCε phosphorylates MIIP and promotes colorectal cancer metastasis through inhibition of RelA deacetylation
Authors: Chen Tao , Li Jingjie , Xu Meidong , Zhao Qin , Hou Yingyong , Yao Liqing , Zhong Yunshi , Chou Ping-Chieh , Zhang Wei , Zhou Pinghong , Jiang Yuhui
Published: October 2017

EGFR signaling is implicated in NF-κB activation. However, the concrete mechanisms by which the core transducer of NF-κB signaling pathway, RelA/p65 is regulated under EGFR activation remains to be further clarified. Here, we show that EGF stimulation induces PKCε-dependent phosphorylation of migration and invasion inhibitory protein (MIIP) at Ser303; this phosphorylation promotes the interaction between MIIP and RelA in the nucleus, by which MIIP prevents histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6)-mediated RelA deacetylation, and thus enhances transcriptional activity of RelA and facilitates tumor metastasis. Meanwhile PP1, which functions as a phosphatase, is found to mediate MIIP-S303 dephosphorylation and its expression level inversely correlates with metastatic capability of tumor cells. Moreover, clinical analyses indicate the level of MIIP-S303 phosphorylation correlates with colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis and prognosis. These findings uncover an unidentified mechanism underlying the precise regulation of NF-κB by EGF, and highlight the critical role of nuclear MIIP in tumor metastasis.
Correlated states in β-Li2IrO3 driven by applied magnetic fields
Authors: Ruiz Alejandro , Frano Alex , Breznay Nicholas P. , Kimchi Itamar , Helm Toni , Oswald Iain , Chan Julia Y. , Birgeneau R. J. , Islam Zahirul , Analytis James G.
Published: October 2017

Magnetic honeycomb iridates are thought to show strongly spin-anisotropic exchange interactions which, when highly frustrated, lead to an exotic state of matter known as the Kitaev quantum spin liquid. However, in all known examples these materials magnetically order at finite temperatures, the scale of which may imply weak frustration. Here we show that the application of a relatively small magnetic field drives the three-dimensional magnet β-Li2IrO3 from its incommensurate ground state into a quantum correlated paramagnet. Interestingly, this paramagnetic state admixes a zig-zag spin mode analogous to the zig-zag order seen in other Mott-Kitaev compounds. The rapid onset of the field-induced correlated state implies the exchange interactions are delicately balanced, leading to strong frustration and a near degeneracy of different ground states.
Projected gradient descent algorithms for quantum state tomography
Authors: Bolduc Eliot , Knee George C. , Gauger Erik M. , Leach Jonathan
Published: October 2017

Accurate quantum tomography is a vital tool in both fundamental and applied quantum science. It is a task that involves processing a noisy measurement record in order to construct a reliable estimate of an unknown quantum state, and is central to quantum computing, metrology and communication. To date, many different approaches to quantum state estimation have been developed, yet no one method fits all applications, and all fail relatively quickly as the dimensionality of the unknown state grows. In this work, we suggest that projected gradient descent is a method that can evade some of these shortcomings. We present three tomography algorithms that use projected gradient descent and compare their performance with state-of-the-art alternatives, i.e., the diluted iterative algorithm and convex programming. Our results find in favour of the general class of projected gradient descent methods due to their speed, applicability to large states, and the range of conditions in which they perform as well as providing insight into which variant of projected gradient descent ought to be used in various measurement scenarios.
Distinct mechanisms of acquisition of mcr-1 –bearing plasmid by Salmonella strains recovered from animals and food samples
Authors: Cui Mingquan , Zhang Jinfei , Zhang Chunping , Li Ruichao , Wai-chi Chan Edward , Wu Chenbin , Wu Congming , Chen Sheng
Published: October 2017

Since the report of its discovery in E. coli in late 2015, the plasmid-mediated colistin resistance gene, mcr-1, has been detected in various bacterial species in clinical setting and various environmental niches. However, the transmission mechanisms of this gene in Salmonella is less defined. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive study to characterize the genetic features of mcr-1-positive Salmonella strains isolated from animals and foods. Our data revealed that Salmonella recovered from animals and food specimens exhibited highly different PFGE patterns, and acquired mcr-1-encoding plasmids via different mechanism. Plasmids harboring mcr-1 in Salmonella food isolates were all conjugative and similar as plasmids reported in other species of Enterobacteriaceae, whereas mcr-1-bearing plasmids from animal Salmonella isolates were not conjugative, and belonged to the IncHI2 type. The lack of a region carrying the tra genes was found to account for the inability to undergo conjugation for various sizes of IncHI2 plasmids harbored by animal strains. These data suggest that transmission of mcr-1-positive Salmonella from animal to food might not be a common event and food isolates may have acquired mcr-1-bearing plasmids from other mcr-1-positive bacteria such as E. coli, which co-exist in food samples.
Improved electrochemical properties of morphology-controlled titania/titanate nanostructures prepared by in-situ hydrothermal surface modification of self-source Ti substrate for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Banerjee Arghya Narayan , Anitha V. C. , Joo Sang W.
Published: October 2017

Abstarct

Ti substrate surface is modified into two-dimensional (2D) TiO2nanoplatelet or one-dimensional (1D) nanorod/nanofiber (or a mixture of both) structure in a controlled manner via a simple KOH-based hydrothermal technique. Depending on the KOH concentration, different types of TiO2nanostructures (2D platelets, 1D nanorods/nanofibers and a 2D+1D mixed sample) are fabricated directly onto the Ti substrate surface. The novelty of this technique is thein-situmodification of the self-source Ti surface into titania nanostructures, and its direct use as the electrochemical microelectrode without any modifications. This leads to considerable improvement in the interfacial properties between metallic Ti and semiconducting TiO2. Since interfacial states/defects have profound effect on charge transport properties of electronic/electrochemical devices, therefore this near-defect-free interfacial property of Ti-TiO2microelectrode has shown high supercapacitive performances for superior charge-storage devices. Additionally, by hydrothermally tuning the morphology of titania nanostructures, the electrochemical properties of the electrodes are also tuned. A Ti-TiO2electrode comprising of a mixture of 2D-platelet+1D-nanorod structure reveals very high specific capacitance values (~7.4 mF.cm−2) due to the unique mixed morphology which manifests higher active sites (hence, higher utilization of the active materials) in terms of greater roughness at the 2D-platelet structures and higher surface-to-volume-ratio in the 1D-nanorod structures.
Transcriptome analysis of Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cells reveals putative apoptosis-related genes and a preliminary apoptosis mechanism induced by azadirachtin
Authors: Shu Benshui , Zhang Jingjing , Sethuraman Veeran , Cui Gaofeng , Yi Xin , Zhong Guohua
Published: October 2017

As an important botanical pesticide, azadirachtin demonstrates broad insecticidal activity against many agricultural pests. The results of a previous study indicated the toxicity and apoptosis induction of azadirachtin in Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cells. However, the lack of genomic data has hindered a deeper investigation of apoptosis in Sf9 cells at a molecular level. In the present study, the complete transcriptome data for Sf9 cell line was accomplished using Illumina sequencing technology, and 97 putative apoptosis-related genes were identified through BLAST and KEGG orthologue annotations. Fragments of potential candidate apoptosis-related genes were cloned, and the mRNA expression patterns of ten identified genes regulated by azadirachtin were examined using qRT-PCR. Furthermore, Western blot analysis showed that six putative apoptosis-related proteins were upregulated after being treated with azadirachtin while the protein Bcl-2 were downregulated. These data suggested that both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic signal pathways comprising the identified potential apoptosis-related genes were potentially active in S. frugiperda. In addition, the preliminary results revealed that caspase-dependent or caspase-independent apoptotic pathways could function in azadirachtin-induced apoptosis in Sf9 cells.
High rates of organic carbon processing in the hyporheic zone of intermittent streams
Authors: Burrows Ryan M. , Rutlidge Helen , Bond Nick R. , Eberhard Stefan M. , Auhl Alexandra , Andersen Martin S. , Valdez Dominic G. , Kennard Mark J.
Published: October 2017

Organic carbon cycling is a fundamental process that underpins energy transfer through the biosphere. However, little is known about the rates of particulate organic carbon processing in the hyporheic zone of intermittent streams, which is often the only wetted environment remaining when surface flows cease. We used leaf litter and cotton decomposition assays, as well as rates of microbial respiration, to quantify rates of organic carbon processing in surface and hyporheic environments of intermittent and perennial streams under a range of substrate saturation conditions. Leaf litter processing was 48% greater, and cotton processing 124% greater, in the hyporheic zone compared to surface environments when calculated over multiple substrate saturation conditions. Processing was also greater in more saturated surface environments (i.e. pools). Further, rates of microbial respiration on incubated substrates in the hyporheic zone were similar to, or greater than, rates in surface environments. Our results highlight that intermittent streams are important locations for particulate organic carbon processing and that the hyporheic zone sustains this fundamental process even without surface flow. Not accounting for carbon processing in the hyporheic zone of intermittent streams may lead to an underestimation of its local ecological significance and collective contribution to landscape carbon processes.
One Dimensional Coordination Polymer of Zn(II) for Developing Multifunctional Nanoparticles
Authors: Agarwal Rashmi A.
Published: October 2017

A variety of nanoparticles (NPs) including Ag, Au, Pd, Cr and mixed Cu/Fe have been synthesized in a non-activated (without solvent removal) one dimensional coordination polymer (CP) of Zn(II) via two different mechanisms, acid formation and redox activity of the framework. Main driving force to grow these NPs within the cavities of CP is the presence of free oxygens of one of the monodentate carboxylate groups of BDC ligand. These free oxygens act as anchoring sites for the metal ions of the metal precursors. Chemical and physical characteristics of the NPs within the framework have been evaluated by the high resolution transmission electron microscopic (HRTEM) images. Excluding Ag(0) and Pd(0) other NPs are present as combinations of their elemental as well as oxide forms (Au/Au2O3, Cr/Cr2O3/CrO2 and Cu/Cu2O, Fe/FeO). Synthesized Ag NPs within the framework show remarkable antibacterial efficacy at extremely low concentrations. Ag, Au and Cu/Fe NPs show ferromagnetic properties within the framework at room temperature. This polymer has potential to sequester highly toxic Cr(VI) to non toxic Cr(0), Cr(III) and Cr(IV) species.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug delays corneal wound healing by reducing production of 12-hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid, a ligand for leukotriene B4 receptor 2
Authors: Iwamoto Satoshi , Koga Tomoaki , Ohba Mai , Okuno Toshiaki , Koike Masato , Murakami Akira , Matsuda Akira , Yokomizo Takehiko
Published: October 2017

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used to reduce inflammation by suppressing cyclooxygenases (COXs). NSAID eye drops are frequently prescribed after ocular surgery to reduce inflammation and pain, but this treatment has clinically significant side effects, including corneal ulcer and perforation. The molecular mechanisms underlying these side effects remain unknown. Recently, the COX product 12(S)-hydroxyheptadeca-5Z,8E,10E-trienoic acid (12-HHT) was identified as an endogenous ligand for leukotriene B4 receptor 2 (BLT2), which is important in maintenance of epithelial homeostasis. We hypothesized that NSAID-dependent corneal damage is caused by reduced production of 12-HHT. Diclofenac eye drops decreased the abundance of downstream products of COX and delayed corneal wound healing in BALB/c mice. Expression of BLT2 was observed in murine ocular tissues including cornea, and in human corneal epithelial cell line and human primary corneal epithelial cells. In BLT2-knockout mice, corneal wound healing was delayed, but the diclofenac-dependent delay in corneal wound healing disappeared. 12-HHT accelerated wound closure both in BLT2-transfected corneal cell line and human primary corneal epithelial cells. Thus, our results reveal that NSAIDs delay corneal wound healing by inhibiting 12-HHT production, and suggest that stimulation of the 12-HHT/BLT2 axis represents a novel therapeutic approach to corneal wound healing.
Probing ligand recognition of the opioid pan antagonist AT-076 at nociceptin, kappa, mu, and delta opioid receptors through structure-activity relationships
Authors: Journigan V. Blair , Polgar Willma E. , Tuan Edward W. , Lu James , Daga Pankaj R. , Zaveri Nurulain T.
Published: October 2017

Few opioid ligands binding to the three classic opioid receptor subtypes, mu, kappa and delta, have high affinity at the fourth opioid receptor, the nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor (NOP). We recently reported the discovery of AT-076 (1), (R)-7-hydroxy-N-((S)-1-(4-(3-hydroxyphenyl)piperidin-1-yl)-3-methylbutan-2-yl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-3-carboxamide, a pan antagonist with nanomolar affinity for all four subtypes. Since AT-076 binds with high affinity at all four subtypes, we conducted a structure-activity relationship (SAR) study to probe ligand recognition features important for pan opioid receptor activity, using chemical modifications of key pharmacophoric groups. SAR analysis of the resulting analogs suggests that for the NOP receptor, the entire AT-076 scaffold is crucial for high binding affinity, but the binding mode is likely different from that of NOP antagonists C-24 and SB-612111 bound in the NOP crystal structure. On the other hand, modifications of the 3-hydroxyphenyl pharmacophore, but not the 7-hydroxy Tic pharmacophore, are better tolerated at kappa and mu receptors and yield very high affinity multifunctional (e.g. 12) or highly selective (e.g. 16) kappa ligands. With the availability of the opioid receptor crystal structures, our SAR analysis of the common chemotype of AT-076 suggests rational approaches to modulate binding selectivity, enabling the design of multifunctional or selective opioid ligands from such scaffolds.
Vitamin D and cognitive function: A Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Maddock Jane , Zhou Ang , Cavadino Alana , Kuźma Elżbieta , Bao Yanchun , Smart Melissa C. , Saum Kai-Uwe , Schöttker Ben , Engmann Jorgen , Kjærgaard Marie , Karhunen Ville , Zhan Yiqiang , Lehtimäki Terho , Rovio Suvi P. , Byberg Liisa , Lahti Jari , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Sen Abhijit , Perna Laura , Schirmer Henrik , Singh-Manoux Archana , Auvinen Juha , Hutri-Kähönen Nina , Kähönen Mika , Kilander Lena , Räikkönen Katri , Melhus Håkan , Ingelsson Erik , Guessous Idris , Petrovic Katja E , Schmidt Helena , Schmidt Reinhold , Vollenweider Peter , Lind Lars , Eriksson Johan G. , Michaëlsson Karl , Raitakari Olli T. , Hägg Sara , Pedersen Nancy L. , Herzig Karl-Heinz , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Veijola Juha , Kivimaki Mika , Jorde Rolf , Brenner Hermann , Kumari Meena , Power Chris , Llewellyn David J. , Hyppönen Elina
Published: October 2017

The causal nature of the association between hypovitaminosis D and poor cognitive function in mid- to later-life is uncertain. Using a Mendelian randomisation(MR) approach, we examined the causal relationship between 25(OH)D and cognitive function. Data came from 172,349 participants from 17 cohorts. DHCR7(rs12785878), CYP2R1 rs12794714) and their combined synthesis score were chosen to proxy 25(OH)D. Cognitive tests were standardised into global and memory scores. Analyses were stratified by 25(OH)D tertiles, sex and age. Random effects meta-analyses assessed associations between 25(OH)D and cognitive function. Associations of serum 25(OH)D with global and memory-related cognitive function were non-linear (lower cognitive scores for both low and high 25(OH)D, pcurvature ≤ 0.006), with much of the curvature attributed to a single study. DHCR7, CYP2R1, and the synthesis score were associated with small reductions in 25(OH)D per vitamin D-decreasing allele. However, coefficients for associations with global or memory-related cognitive function were non-significant and in opposing directions for DHCR7 and CYP2R1, with no overall association observed for the synthesis score. Coefficients for the synthesis score and global and memory cognition were similar when stratified by 25(OH)D tertiles, sex and age. We found no evidence for serum 25(OH)D concentration as a causal factor for cognitive performance in mid- to later life.
A novel machine learning approach reveals latent vascular phenotypes predictive of renal cancer outcome
Authors: Ing Nathan , Huang Fangjin , Conley Andrew , You Sungyong , Ma Zhaoxuan , Klimov Sergey , Ohe Chisato , Yuan Xiaopu , Amin Mahul B. , Figlin Robert , Gertych Arkadiusz , Knudsen Beatrice S.
Published: October 2017

Gene expression signatures are commonly used as predictive biomarkers, but do not capture structural features within the tissue architecture. Here we apply a 2-step machine learning framework for quantitative imaging of tumor vasculature to derive a spatially informed, prognostic gene signature. The trained algorithms classify endothelial cells and generate a vascular area mask (VAM) in H&E micrographs of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) cases from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Quantification of VAMs led to the discovery of 9 vascular features (9VF) that predicted disease-free-survival in a discovery cohort (n = 64, HR = 2.3). Correlation analysis and information gain identified a 14 gene expression signature related to the 9VF’s. Two generalized linear models with elastic net regularization (14VF and 14GT), based on the 14 genes, separated independent cohorts of up to 301 cases into good and poor disease-free survival groups (14VF HR = 2.4, 14GT HR = 3.33). For the first time, we successfully applied digital image analysis and targeted machine learning to develop prognostic, morphology-based, gene expression signatures from the vascular architecture. This novel morphogenomic approach has the potential to improve previous methods for biomarker development.
Large-scale transport of PM2.5 in the lower troposphere during winter cold surges in China
Authors: Wang Jianjun , Zhang Meigen , Bai Xiaolin , Tan Hongjian , Li Sabrina , Liu Jiping , Zhang Rui , Wolters Mark A. , Qin Xiuyuan , Zhang Miming , Lin Hongmei , Li Yuenan , Li Jonathan , Chen Liqi
Published: October 2017

A comprehensive investigation using the air quality network and meteorological data of China in 2015 showed that PM2.5 driven by cold surges from the ground level could travel up to 2000 km from northern to southern China within two days. Air pollution is more severe and prominent during the winter in north China due to seasonal variations in energy usage, trade wind movements, and industrial emissions. In February 2015, two cold surges traveling from north China caused a temporary increase in the concentration of PM2.5 in Shanghai. Subsequently, the concentration of PM2.5 in Xiamen increased to a high of 80 µg/m3, which is double the average PM2.5 concentration in Xiamen during the winter. This finding is a new long-range transport mechanism comparing to the well-established mechanism, with long-range transport more likely to occur in the upper troposphere than at lower levels. These observations were validated by results from the back trajectory analysis and the RAMS- CMAQ model. While wind speed was found to be a major facilitator in transporting PM2.5 from Beijing to Xiamen, more investigation is required to understand the complex relationship between wind speed and PM2.5 and how it moderates air quality in Beijing, Shanghai, and Xiamen.
Optimal $${\mathscr{P}}{\mathscr{T}}$$ -symmetric switch features exceptional point
Authors: Lupu Anatole , Konotop Vladimir V. , Benisty Henri
Published: October 2017

We consider the optimization problem of least energy-cost path in open systems that are described by non-Hermitian Hamiltonians. We apply it to find the optimal gain-loss profile for a non-uniform PT-symmetric coupler performing a binary transfer function. We bring evidence that the gain-loss profile fulfilling this requirement corresponds to a non-conventional situation where light intensity is conserved at every point along the PT-symmetric system. Besides, we find that the optimal profile corresponds to a practically important case of optical switching operation achieved with minimal amount of aggregate amplification level. We show that switching architectures using such type of gain-loss profiles are much more advantageous than conventional uniform PT-symmetric couplers in terms of gain and energy. Furthermore, this type of optimal profile turns out to be robust against fabrication imperfections. This opens new prospects for functional applications of PT-symmetric devices in photonics.