bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting non-linear dynamics by stable local learning in a recurrent spiking neural network
Authors: Gilra Aditya , Gerstner Wulfram
Published: November 2017

The brain needs to predict how the body reacts to motor commands, but how a network of spiking neurons can learn non-linear body dynamics using local, online and stable learning rules is unclear. Here, we present a supervised learning scheme for the feedforward and recurrent connections in a network of heterogeneous spiking neurons. The error in the output is fed back through fixed random connections with a negative gain, causing the network to follow the desired dynamics. The rule for Feedback-based Online Local Learning Of Weights (FOLLOW) is local in the sense that weight changes depend on the presynaptic activity and the error signal projected onto the postsynaptic neuron. We provide examples of learning linear, non-linear and chaotic dynamics, as well as the dynamics of a two-link arm. Under reasonable approximations, we show, using the Lyapunov method, that FOLLOW learning is uniformly stable, with the error going to zero asymptotically.
AKT isoforms have distinct hippocampal expression and roles in synaptic plasticity
Authors: Levenga Josien , Wong Helen , Milstead Ryan A , Keller Bailey N , LaPlante Lauren E , Hoeffer Charles A
Published: November 2017

AKT is a kinase regulating numerous cellular processes in the brain, and mutations in AKT are known to affect brain function. AKT is indirectly implicated in synaptic plasticity, but its direct role has not been studied. Moreover, three highly related AKT isoforms are expressed in the brain, but their individual roles are poorly understood. We find in Mus musculus, each AKT isoform has a unique expression pattern in the hippocampus, with AKT1 and AKT3 primarily in neurons but displaying local differences, while AKT2 is in astrocytes. We also find isoform-specific roles for AKT in multiple paradigms of hippocampal synaptic plasticity in area CA1. AKT1, but not AKT2 or AKT3, is required for L-LTP through regulating activity-induced protein synthesis. Interestingly, AKT activity inhibits mGluR-LTD, with overlapping functions for AKT1 and AKT3. In summary, our studies identify distinct expression patterns and roles in synaptic plasticity for AKT isoforms in the hippocampus.
Inguinal Herniation of Perinephric Tissue: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Morgan Tara Nikonow , Bandari Jathin , Hale Nathan , Davies Benjamin
Published: November 2017

Inguinal hernias containing a kidney or perinephric tissue are extremely rare and usually related to cases involving a kidney positioned in the pelvis. We report the case of a 79-year-old man who presented with abdominal pain and scrotal swelling. He was found on imaging to have an inferiorly displaced kidney with an inguinal herniation of Gerota fascia, as well as an obstructing ureteral stone with an associated forniceal rupture. The unusual renal anatomy, as well as the management of a forniceal rupture, is discussed.
Eksamensoppgaver i barnehagelærerutdanningen i lys av formålet om en integrert, profesjonsrettet og forskningsbasert utdanning
Authors: Nordvik Grete Karin , Vatne Bente
Published: November 2017

Intensjonen med denne artikkelen er å analysere og diskutere hvordan eksamensformer og oppgavetekster i den nye barnehagelærerutdanningen bidrar til en integrert, profesjonsrettet og forskningsbasert utdanning. Eksamensoppgavetekster gitt ved ni norske høgskoler og universiteter, blir analysert ut fra profesjonsteori og teorier om forskningsbasert utdannelse. Analysene viser at oppgavetekstenes form og innhold fra over halvparten av institusjonene som er undersøkt, ikke skiller seg nevneverdig fra tidligere oppgaver. Vi stiller spørsmål ved om disse oppgavetypene og -tekstene oppfyller kravet om at barnehagelærerutdanningen skal være en integrert, profesjonsrettet og forskningsbasert utdanning.The purpose of this article is to analyze and discuss whether exam types and texts in the new Early Childhood Teacher Education contribute to an integrated, professional and research-based education. Examination papers given by nine Norwegian colleges and universities are analyzed within the framework of theory on vocational education and theory on research-based education. The analyzes show that in more than half of the institutions investigated, the content and form of the examination papers do not differ significantly from previous assignments. We question whether these exam types and texts fulfill the demand of the Early Childhood Teacher Education to be both integrated, professionally oriented and based on research-based knowledge.
Fatal injection: a survey of modern code injection attack countermeasures
Authors: Mitropoulos Dimitris , Spinellis Diomidis
Published: November 2017

With a code injection attack (CIA) an attacker can introduce malicious code into a computer program or system that fails to properly encode data that comes from an untrusted source. A CIA can have different forms depending on the execution context of the application and the location of the programming flaw that leads to the attack. Currently, CIAs are considered one of the most damaging classes of application attacks since they can severely affect an organisation’s infrastructure and cause financial and reputational damage to it. In this paper we examine and categorize the countermeasures developed to detect the various attack forms. In particular, we identify two distinct categories. The first incorporates static program analysis tools used to eliminate flaws that can lead to such attacks during the development of the system. The second involves the use of dynamic detection safeguards that prevent code injection attacks while the system is in production mode. Our analysis is based on nonfunctional characteristics that are considered critical when creating security mechanisms. Such characteristics involve usability, overhead, implementation dependencies, false positives and false negatives. Our categorization and analysis can help both researchers and practitioners either to develop novel approaches, or use the appropriate mechanisms according to their needs.
Impacts of diarrhea on the immune system, intestinal environment, and expression of PGRPs in New Zealand rabbits
Authors: Chen Yang , Zhao Bohao , Wu Yuwei , Hu Shuaishuai , Mu Lin , Zhu Cigen , Pan Yulai , Wu Xinsheng
Published: November 2017

Diarrhea is a syndrome of digestive disorders in young rabbits and may lead to secondary infections resulting in reduced immunity and higher mortality in baby rabbits, with serious impacts on rabbit farming. In this study, we investigated the effects of diarrhea on the health of baby rabbits in terms of intestinal mucosal development, immune function, and intestinal microbial diversity. We found that the duodenal villus length and the villus/crypt ratio in rabbits with diarrhea were significantly reduced compared with those in healthy rabbits (P < 0.01). Rabbits with diarrhea had significantly lower concentrations of acetic acid (P < 0.05), higher pH levels (P < 0.05), and higher levels of ammonia nitrogen (P < 0.01) in the cecum. Moreover, diarrhea in baby rabbits led to significantly reduced levels of total serum protein (P < 0.05) and markedly increased levels of alkaline phosphatase, urea nitrogen, TNF-α, and IL-6 (P < 0.05). Transcriptional analysis of peptidoglycan recognition proteins (PGRPs, includingPGLYRP-1,PGLYRP-2, andPGLYRP-3) using real-time PCR revealed that diarrhea induced the upregulation of PGRPs in the cecum and duodenum. Furthermore, through pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA V4 region in cecum samples, we found that the total number and diversity of microbes were not significantly different between healthy rabbits and those with diarrhea, though there were noticeable differences in the prevalences ofClostridium,Roseburia,andAlistipes. Our results will contribute to a better understanding of the pathological mechanisms of diarrhea in young rabbits.
La autorregulación de la actividad informativa
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Ferrer María Cristina
Published: November 2017

La autorregulación se presenta como una alternativa que los profesionales de la información han encontrado para: - elevar el nivel ético y técnico de su actividad y mantenerla a tono con el desarrollo de los medios de comunicación,y - defenderse de un control gubernamental, que pueda limitar la libertad necesaria para trabajar dentro de un marco de responsabilidad.
Homilia en la misa conmemorativa
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Fresno Larraín Cardenal Juan Francisco
Published: November 2017

Nos reunimos hoy en torno al altar del Señor, en la conmemoración de los 25 años de fundación de la Escuela de Periodismo de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Con mucho gusto he aceptado venir a celebrarles la Santa Misa, para que demos gracias a Dios por todo lo bueno que ha suscitado en estos 25 años, para que reconozcamos con humildad en nuestro corazón las deficiencias que hubieren podido haber en el desempeño de esta labor, para que nos comprometamos, una vez más y cada uno en el ámbito que le corresponde, en la construcción abnegada y generosa del Reino del Señor entre nosotros.
Discurso del director fundador de la escuela
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Prieto Sanchez Patricio
Published: November 2017

Enero y febrero de 1961 fueron meses agitados. Había que poner a punto, para iniciar en marzo, las actividades de una flamante Escuela de Periodismo. Lo primero, era dar a conocer el porqué de este nuevo centro académico y para ello se preparó un folleto, que hoy nos parece un poco rústico, pero que en su tiempo cumplió su cometido. Resulta útil leer su 12 primeras líneas, que constituyen una escueta declaración de principios...
Presentación de la mesa redonda
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Mac Hale Tomas P.
Published: November 2017

La celebración de los 25 años de la Escuela de Periodismo de esta Universidad ha permitido evaluar el camino recorrido y, a la vez, trazar metas para el futuro de dicha unidad académica. El programa conmemorativo recién iniciado en forma por demás auspiciosa, hoy contempla una mesa redonda con distinguidos participantes en torno a un tema de gran importancia: las relaciones entre la libertad de expresión, la ética periodística y la desinformación. Se trata de tres materias claves en una escuela universitaria que forma a futuros profesionales de la prensa, los cuales ya en las aulas perciben la drasticidad de un sistema de controles jurídicos destinado a limitar y, en algunos casos, a imposibilitar el ejercicio de dos garantías constitucionales básicas: las libertades de opinión y de información...
Discusión del tema de la mesa redonda
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Filippi Emilio
Published: November 2017

El tema de esta mesa redonda me sugiere una interrogante indispensable: ¿vamos todos a hablar de lo mismo? ¿O acaso, como en el mundo orwelliano, llamaremos a las cosas por nombres ficticios que significan para unos lo contrario que para otros? Nosotros hemos sido testigos en estos últimos tiempos que palabras que representan determinados conceptos son usadas y subutilizadas de tal forma que terminan siendo desfiguradas en el tiempo. Ideas-fuerza como libertad, democracia, patriotismo, tienen acepciones equívocas y no necesariamente uno las entiende de la misma manera que su vecino.
Intervenciones sobre el tema de la mesa redonda
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Pellegrini R. Silvia
Published: November 2017

La Universidad recoge los problemas que se generan en la realidad para reflexionar y hacer un aporte, planteándose las interrogantes que se encuentran en el trasfondo de ellos. Lo importante para nosotros es la formulación correcta de las preguntas que surgen de la realidad para obtener respuestas lo más precisas posibles. El tema de esta mesa redonda plantea cuestiones que van desde qué es la libertad y la ética por poner el extremo más teórico, hasta si existe desinforniación actualmente en Chile. La Escuela de Periodismo para intentar resolver la compleja relación entre libertad, ética y desinformación se ha planteado una interrogante previa: ¿en qué consiste la función de informar?...
Periodismo interpretativo: Precisiones en torno a un género
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Muller Gonzalez John
Published: November 2017

Un problema grave se está planteando en la prensa nacional. Y en contra de lo que se pudiera pensar, en esta ocasión tiene que ver exclusivamente con los periodistas profesionales. El asunto afecta de lleno al Periodismo Interpretativo, debido a las creencias que -a nuestro juicio equivocadamente- se han tejido en torno a su práctica. Estas ideas dicen relación con un cierto contrabando ideológico que se efectúa a través del género, o sencillamente con la convicción que asiste a algunos periodistas de que éste les permite difundir -disfrazándolas de manera adecuada- sus propias opiniones o prejuicios...
La universidad y los problemas de la prensa
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Mac Hale Tomas P.
Published: November 2017

Esta mañana se han verificado aquí importantes intervenciones sobre el marco legal en que se desenvuelve la prensa en Chile (**). La Escuela de Periodismo y el Centro de Estudios de la Prensa, dependientes ambos de la Facultad de Letras de esta Universidad, patrocinaron un seminario de interés nacional, porque a nadie escapa cuan crucial es el tema para la vida chilena. Dicho marco jurídico importa al gobierno que lo ha implantado; a los medios de comunicación social que deben acatarlo; a la población que se impone de un producto final, como es todo órgano informativo, enmarcado por una severa estructura, y finalmente a la comunidad internacional que, como otros, lo critica.
La prensa y la integración chileno-argentino
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Zegers Ariztia Cristian
Published: November 2017

La prensa es un medio apto, sin duda, para facilitar la integración chileno-argentina. Pero antes de ver las posibles características de su aporte, conviene destacar la novedad del tema -abierto a la discusión , y su importancia, la que es inseparable del progreso del afán integrador. Probablemente, una anticipación exagerada de las ventajas y perspectivas del proceso que no fuera seguida de cerca por hechos reales, sólo sería motivo de frustraciones perjudiciales para el entendimiento propuesto...
The Properties of Lion Roars and Electron Dynamics in Mirror Mode Waves Observed by the Magnetospheric MultiScale Mission
Authors: Breuillard H. , Le Contel O. , Chust T. , Berthomier M. , Retino A. , Turner D. L. , Nakamura R. , Baumjohann W. , Cozzani G. , Catapano F. , Alexandrova A. , Mirioni L. , Graham D. B. , Argall M. R. , Fischer D. , Wilder F. D. , Gershman D. J. , Varsani A. , Lindqvist P.‐A. , Khotyaintsev Yu. V. , Marklund G. , Ergun R. E. , Goodrich K. A. , Ahmadi N. , Burch J. L. , Torbert R. B. , Needell G. , Chutter M. , Rau D. , Dors I. , Russell C. T. , Magnes W. , Strangeway R. J. , Bromund K. R. , Wei H. , Plaschke F. , Anderson B. J. , Le G. , Moore T. E. , Giles B. L. , Paterson W. R. , Pollock C. J. , Dorelli J. C. , Avanov L. A. , Saito Y. , Lavraud B. , Fuselier S. A. , Mauk B. H. , Cohen I. J. , Fennell J. F.
Published: November 2017

Mirror mode waves are ubiquitous in the Earth's magnetosheath, in particular behind the quasi‐perpendicular shock. Embedded in these nonlinear structures, intense lion roars are often observed. Lion roars are characterized by whistler wave packets at a frequency ∼100 Hz, which are thought to be generated in the magnetic field minima. In this study, we make use of the high time resolution instruments on board the Magnetospheric MultiScale mission to investigate these waves and the associated electron dynamics in the quasi‐perpendicular magnetosheath on 22 January 2016. We show that despite a core electron parallel anisotropy, lion roars can be generated locally in the range 0.05–0.2fce by the perpendicular anisotropy of electrons in a particular energy range. We also show that intense lion roars can be observed up to higher frequencies due to the sharp nonlinear peaks of the signal, which appear as sharp spikes in the dynamic spectra. As a result, a high sampling rate is needed to estimate correctly their amplitude, and the latter might have been underestimated in previous studies using lower time resolution instruments. We also present for the first‐time 3‐D high time resolution electron velocity distribution functions in mirror modes. We demonstrate that the dynamics of electrons trapped in the mirror mode structures are consistent with the Kivelson and Southwood (1996) model. However, these electrons can also interact with the embedded lion roars: first signatures of electron quasi‐linear pitch angle diffusion and possible signatures of nonlinear interaction with high‐amplitude wave packets are presented. These processes can lead to electron untrapping from mirror modes.
Energetic Electron Acceleration and Injection During Dipolarization Events in Mercury's Magnetotail
Authors: Dewey Ryan M. , Slavin James A. , Raines Jim M. , Baker Daniel N. , Lawrence David J.
Published: November 2017

Energetic particle bursts associated with dipolarization events within Mercury's magnetosphere were first observed by Mariner 10. The events appear analogous to particle injections accompanying dipolarization events at Earth. The Energetic Particle Spectrometer (3 s resolution) aboard MESSENGER determined the particle bursts are composed entirely of electrons with energies ≳ 300 keV. Here we use the Gamma‐Ray Spectrometer high‐time‐resolution (10 ms) energetic electron measurements to examine the relationship between energetic electron injections and magnetic field dipolarization in Mercury's magnetotail. Between March 2013 and April 2015, we identify 2,976 electron burst events within Mercury's magnetotail, 538 of which are closely associated with dipolarization events. These dipolarizations are detected on the basis of their rapid (~2 s) increase in the northward component of the tail magnetic field (ΔBz ~30 nT), which typically persists for ~10 s. Similar to those at Earth, we find that these dipolarizations appear to be low‐entropy, depleted flux tubes convecting planetward following the collapse of the inner magnetotail. We find that electrons experience brief, yet intense, betatron and Fermi acceleration during these dipolarizations, reaching energies ~130 keV and contributing to nightside precipitation. Thermal protons experience only modest betatron acceleration. While only ~25% of energetic electron events in Mercury's magnetotail are directly associated with dipolarization, the remaining events are consistent with the Near‐Mercury Neutral Line model of magnetotail injection and eastward drift about Mercury, finding that electrons may participate in Shabansky‐like closed drifts about the planet. Magnetotail dipolarization may be the dominant source of energetic electron acceleration in Mercury's magnetosphere.
Influence of the Ambient Electric Field on Measurements of the Actively Controlled Spacecraft Potential by MMS
Authors: Torkar K. , Nakamura R. , Andriopoulou M. , Giles B. L. , Jeszenszky H. , Khotyaintsev Y. V. , Lindqvist P.‐A. , Torbert R. B.
Published: November 2017

Space missions with sophisticated plasma instrumentation such as Magnetospheric Multiscale, which employs four satellites to explore near‐Earth space benefit from a low electric potential of the spacecraft, to improve the plasma measurements and therefore carry instruments to actively control the potential by means of ion beams. Without control, the potential varies in anticorrelation with plasma density and temperature to maintain an equilibrium between the plasma current and the one of photoelectrons produced at the surface and overcoming the potential barrier. A drawback of the controlled, almost constant potential is the difficulty to use it as convenient estimator for plasma density. This paper identifies a correlation between the spacecraft potential and the ambient electric field, both measured by double probes mounted at the end of wire booms, as the main responsible for artifacts in the potential data besides the known effect of the variable photoelectron production due to changing illumination of the surface. It is shown that the effect of density variations is too weak to explain the observed correlation with the electric field and that a correction of the artifacts can be achieved to enable the reconstruction of the uncontrolled potential and plasma density in turn. Two possible mechanisms are discussed: the asymmetry of the current‐voltage characteristic determining the probe to plasma potential and the fact that a large equipotential structure embedded in an electric field results in asymmetries of both the emission and spatial distribution of photoelectrons, which results in an increase of the spacecraft potential.
Ushering in a New Frontier in Geospace Through Data Science
Authors: McGranaghan Ryan M. , Bhatt Asti , Matsuo Tomoko , Mannucci Anthony J. , Semeter Joshua L. , Datta‐Barua Seebany
Published: November 2017

Our understanding and specification of solar‐terrestrial interactions benefit from taking advantage of comprehensive data‐intensive approaches. These data‐driven methods are taking on new importance in light of the shifting data landscape of the geospace system, which extends from the near Earth space environment, through the magnetosphere and interplanetary space, to the Sun. The space physics community faces both an exciting opportunity and an important imperative to create a new frontier built at the intersection of traditional approaches and state‐of‐the‐art data‐driven sciences and technologies. This brief commentary addresses the current paradigm of geospace science and the emerging need for data science innovation, discusses the meaning of data science in the context of geospace, and highlights community efforts to respond to the changing landscape.
Three Types of Flower Structures in a Divergent‐Wrench Fault Zone
Authors: Huang Lei , Liu Chi‐yang
Published: November 2017

Flower structures are typical features of wrench fault zones. In conventional studies, two distinct kinds of flower structures have been identified based on differences in their internal structural architecture: (1) negative flower structures characterized by synforms and normal separations and (2) positive flower structures characterized by antiforms and reverse separations. In addition to negative and positive flower structures, in this study, a third kind of flower structure was identified in a divergent‐wrench fault zone, a hybrid characterized by both antiforms and normal separations. Negative flower structures widely occur in divergent‐wrench fault zones, and their presence indicates the combined effects of extensional and strike‐slip motion. In contrast, positive and hybrid flower structures occur only in fault restraining bends and step overs. A hybrid flower structure can be considered as product of a kind of structural deformation typical of divergent‐wrench zones; it is the result of the combined effects of extensional, compressional, and strike‐slip strains under a locally appropriate compressional environment. The strain situation in it represents the transition stage that in between positive and negative flower structures. Kinematic and dynamic characteristics of the hybrid flower structures indicate the salient features of structural deformation in restraining bends and step overs along divergent‐wrench faults, including the coexistence of three kinds of strains (i.e., compression, extension, and strike‐slip) and synchronous presence of compressional (i.e., typical fault‐bend fold) and extensional (normal faults) deformation in the same place. Hybrid flower structures are also favorable for the accumulation of hydrocarbons because of their special structural configuration in divergent‐wrench fault zones.
Carbon Inputs From Riparian Vegetation Limit Oxidation of Physically Bound Organic Carbon Via Biochemical and Thermodynamic Processes
Authors: Graham Emily B. , Tfaily Malak M. , Crump Alex R. , Goldman Amy E. , Bramer Lisa M. , Arntzen Evan , Romero Elvira , Resch C. Tom , Kennedy David W. , Stegen James C.
Published: November 2017

In light of increasing terrestrial carbon (C) transport across aquatic boundaries, the mechanisms governing organic carbon (OC) oxidation along terrestrial‐aquatic interfaces are crucial to future climate predictions. Here we investigate the biochemistry, metabolic pathways, and thermodynamics corresponding to OC oxidation in the Columbia River corridor using ultrahigh‐resolution C characterization. We leverage natural vegetative differences to encompass variation in terrestrial C inputs. Our results suggest that decreases in terrestrial C deposition associated with diminished riparian vegetation induce oxidation of physically bound OC. We also find that contrasting metabolic pathways oxidize OC in the presence and absence of vegetation and—in direct conflict with the “priming” concept—that inputs of water‐soluble and thermodynamically favorable terrestrial OC protect bound‐OC from oxidation. In both environments, the most thermodynamically favorable compounds appear to be preferentially oxidized regardless of which OC pool microbiomes metabolize. In turn, we suggest that the extent of riparian vegetation causes sediment microbiomes to locally adapt to oxidize a particular pool of OC but that common thermodynamic principles govern the oxidation of each pool (i.e., water‐soluble or physically bound). Finally, we propose a mechanistic conceptualization of OC oxidation along terrestrial‐aquatic interfaces that can be used to model heterogeneous patterns of OC loss under changing land cover distributions.
Memristive Logic‐in‐Memory Integrated Circuits for Energy‐Efficient Flexible Electronics
Authors: Jang Byung Chul , Nam Yunyong , Koo Beom Jun , Choi Junhwan , Im Sung Gap , Park Sang‐Hee Ko , Choi Sung‐Yool
Published: November 2017

A memristive nonvolatile logic‐in‐memory circuit can provide a novel energy‐efficient computing architecture for battery‐powered flexible electronics. However, the cell‐to‐cell interference existing in the memristor crossbar array impedes both the reading process and parallel computing. Here, it is demonstrated that integration of an amorphous In‐Zn‐Sn‐O (a‐IZTO) semiconductor‐based selector (1S) device and a poly(1,3,5‐trivinyl‐1,3,5‐trimethyl cyclotrisiloxane) (pV3D3)‐based memristor (1M) on a flexible substrate can overcome these problems. The developed a‐IZTO‐based selector device, having a Pd/a‐IZTO/Pd structure, exhibits nonlinear current–voltage (I–V) characteristics with outstanding stability against electrical and mechanical stresses. Its underlying conduction mechanism is systematically determined via the temperature‐dependent I–V characteristics. The flexible one‐selector−one‐memristor (1S–1M) array exhibits reliable electrical characteristics and significant leakage current suppression. Furthermore, single‐instruction multiple‐data (SIMD), the foundation of parallel computing, is successfully implemented by performing NOT and NOR gates over multiple rows within the 1S–1M array. The results presented here will pave the way for development of a flexible nonvolatile logic‐in‐memory circuit for energy‐efficient flexible electronics.
Naphthodithiophene‐Based Nonfullerene Acceptor for High‐Performance Organic Photovoltaics: Effect of Extended Conjugation
Authors: Zhu Jingshuai , Ke Zhifan , Zhang Qianqian , Wang Jiayu , Dai Shuixing , Wu Yang , Xu Ye , Lin Yuze , Ma Wei , You Wei , Zhan Xiaowei
Published: November 2017

Naphtho[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene is extended to a fused octacyclic building block, which is end capped by strong electron‐withdrawing 2‐(5,6‐difluoro‐3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐inden‐1‐ylidene)malononitrile to yield a fused‐ring electron acceptor (IOIC2) for organic solar cells (OSCs). Relative to naphthalene‐based IHIC2, naphthodithiophene‐based IOIC2 with a larger π‐conjugation and a stronger electron‐donating core shows a higher lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy level (IOIC2: −3.78 eV vs IHIC2: −3.86 eV), broader absorption with a smaller optical bandgap (IOIC2: 1.55 eV vs IHIC2: 1.66 eV), and a higher electron mobility (IOIC2: 1.0 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1 vs IHIC2: 5.0 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1). Thus, IOIC2‐based OSCs show higher values in open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current density, fill factor, and thereby much higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) values than those of the IHIC2‐based counterpart. In particular, as‐cast OSCs based on FTAZ: IOIC2 yield PCEs of up to 11.2%, higher than that of the control devices based on FTAZ: IHIC2 (7.45%). Furthermore, by using 0.2% 1,8‐diiodooctane as the processing additive, a PCE of 12.3% is achieved from the FTAZ:IOIC2‐based devices, higher than that of the FTAZ:IHIC2‐based devices (7.31%). These results indicate that incorporating extended conjugation into the electron‐donating fused‐ring units in nonfullerene acceptors is a promising strategy for designing high‐performance electron acceptors.
A Highly Sensitive Capacitive‐Based Soft Pressure Sensor Based on a Conductive Fabric and a Microporous Dielectric Layer
Authors: Atalay Ozgur , Atalay Asli , Gafford Joshua , Walsh Conor
Published: November 2017

In this paper, the design and manufacturing of a highly sensitive capacitive‐based soft pressure sensor for wearable electronics applications are presented. Toward this aim, two types of soft conductive fabrics (knitted and woven), as well as two types of sacrificial particles (sugar granules and salt crystals) to create micropores within the dielectric layer of the capacitive sensor are evaluated, and the combined effects on the sensor's overall performance are assessed. It is found that a combination of the conductive knit electrode and higher dielectric porosity (generated using the larger sugar granules) yields higher sensitivity (121 × 10−4 kPa−1) due to greater compressibility and the formation of air gaps between silicone elastomer and conductive knit electrode among the other design considerations in this study. As a practical demonstration, the capacitive sensor is embedded into a textile glove for grasp motion monitoring during activities of daily living.
“I'm Having a Little Struggle With This, Can You Help Me Out?”: Examining Impacts and Processes of a Social Capital Intervention for First‐Generation College Students
Authors: Schwartz Sarah E. O. , Kanchewa Stella S. , Rhodes Jean E. , Gowdy Grace , Stark Abigail M. , Horn John Paul , Parnes McKenna , Spencer Renée
Published: November 2017

Social capital plays a key role in college and career success, and research indicates that a dearth of on‐campus connections contributes to challenges first‐generation college students face in effectively navigating the college environment. This study investigates a novel intervention that focuses on the development of skills and attitudes to empower first‐generation college students to cultivate social capital and on‐campus connections during the transition to college. A mixed methods, explanatory design was used to evaluate impacts and processes of the intervention among first‐generation college students (n = 164) in the context of an ethnically diverse, urban, public university in the Northeast. Results indicated that students who participated in the intervention demonstrated improved attitudes and behaviors around seeking support in college, closer relationships with instructors, and higher GPAs at the end of their first year in college. These results suggest the potential benefits of a relatively scalable approach to supporting the needs of first‐generation college students.
Congenital limb deficiencies and major associated anomalies in Alberta for the years 1980–2012
Authors: Bedard Tanya , Lowry R. Brian , Sibbald Barbara , Crawford Susan , Kiefer Gerhard N.
Published: November 2017

There is a wide range of the proportion of congenital anomalies associated with limb deficiencies reported in the literature. This variation is primarily attributed to methodology and classification differences. The distribution of associated anomalies among cases with congenital limb deficiencies in Alberta born between January 1, 1980 and December 31, 2012 is described. Of the 170 cases identified, most were live born (75.3%), male (61.8%), had longitudinal limb deficiencies (78.8%), and had associated anomalies outside the musculoskeletal system (77.6%). Significant associations between the preaxial longitudinal group and the central nervous, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular systems are reported as well as between the postaxial longitudinal group and congenital hip and foot anomalies. Probable and possible syndrome diagnoses are described for cases with recognized malformation patterns.
Distinct cerebellar foliation anomalies in a CHD7 haploinsufficient mouse model of CHARGE syndrome
Authors: Whittaker Danielle E. , Kasah Sahrunizam , Donovan Alex P. A. , Ellegood Jacob , Riegman Kimberley L. H. , Volk Holger A. , McGonnell Imelda , Lerch Jason P. , Basson M. Albert
Published: November 2017

Mutations in the gene encoding the ATP dependent chromatin‐remodeling factor, CHD7 are the major cause of CHARGE (Coloboma, Heart defects, Atresia of the choanae, Retarded growth and development, Genital‐urinary anomalies, and Ear defects) syndrome. Neurodevelopmental defects and a range of neurological signs have been identified in individuals with CHARGE syndrome, including developmental delay, lack of coordination, intellectual disability, and autistic traits. We previously identified cerebellar vermis hypoplasia and abnormal cerebellar foliation in individuals with CHARGE syndrome. Here, we report mild cerebellar hypoplasia and distinct cerebellar foliation anomalies in a Chd7 haploinsufficient mouse model. We describe specific alterations in the precise spatio‐temporal sequence of fissure formation during perinatal cerebellar development responsible for these foliation anomalies. The altered cerebellar foliation pattern in Chd7 haploinsufficient mice show some similarities to those reported in mice with altered Engrailed, Fgf8 or Zic1 gene expression and we propose that mutations or polymorphisms in these genes may modify the cerebellar phenotype in CHARGE syndrome. Our findings in a mouse model of CHARGE syndrome indicate that a careful analysis of cerebellar foliation may be warranted in patients with CHARGE syndrome, particularly in patients with cerebellar hypoplasia and developmental delay.
Attribute Dismissal and Valence Effects in Preferential Decision Processing
Authors: Hair Michael L. , Bond Samuel D.
Published: November 2017

The processing of attribute information during preference‐based decision making is affected by both the valence of that information and its importance to the decision. Although these two factors have typically been examined separately, we propose that their effects on elaboration and encoding are often codependent. Results of four experiments demonstrate that the traditional negativity effect, whereby negative attribute information is processed more extensively than positive attribute information, obtains only for the subset of attributes perceived to be most important. Among other attributes, the negativity effect is reduced or even reversed (a positivity effect). Our findings suggest important qualifications to prevailing notions of selective information processing. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microfluidics Based Point‐of‐Care Diagnostics
Authors: Pandey Chandra M. , Augustine Shine , Kumar Saurabh , Kumar Suveen , Nara Sharda , Srivastava Saurabh , Malhotra Bansi D.
Published: November 2017

Point‐of‐care (POC) diagnostic devices have been predicted to provide a boon in health care especially in the diagnosis and detection of diseases. POC devices have been found to have many advantages like a rapid and precise response, portability, low cost, and non‐requirement of specialized equipment. The major objective of a POC diagnostic research is to develop a chip‐based, self‐containing miniaturized device that can be used to examine different analytes in complex samples. Further, the integration of microfluidics (MF) with advanced biosensor technologies is likely to result in improved POC diagnostics. This paper presents the overview of the different materials (glass, silicon, polymer, paper) and techniques for the fabrication of MF based POC devices along with their wide range of biosensor applications. Besides this, the authors have presented in brief the challenges that MF is currently facing along with possible solutions that may result in the availability of the accessible, reliable, and cost‐efficient technology. The development of these devices requires the combination of developed MF components into POC devices that are user‐friendly, sensitive, stable, accurate, low cost, and minimally invasive. These MF based POC devices have tremendous potential in providing improved healthcare including easy monitoring, early detection of disease, and increased personalization.
Crystallographic insights into the self‐assembly of KLVFF amyloid‐beta peptides
Authors: Pizzi Andrea , Dichiarante Valentina , Terraneo Giancarlo , Metrangolo Pierangelo
Published: November 2017

Amyloidogenic peptide fragment KLVFF (H2N‐Lys‐Leu‐Val‐Phe‐Phe‐COOH, Aβ16‐20), the core‐sequence of the polypeptide Aβ40, is a well‐studied model for amyloid formation. However, due to its low crystallinity, detailed atomic information of KLVFF structure is lacking. Here we report the high‐resolution single‐crystal X‐ray structure of two monohalogenated KLVFF derivatives, KLVFF(I) and KLVFF(Br). The obtained results highlight how halogenation is a good strategy to promote crystallization and facilitate the phase determination of KLVFF(I) and KLVFF(Br) fragments. Detailed structural studies on the packing features of both monohalogenated derivatives reveal the role of the halogen atoms showing that when they are positioned on the Phe aromatic moiety at the C‐terminus they do not form halogen bonds and thus do not produce any extra stabilization of the β‐sheet in the self‐assembly process. The structural evidences gained from these studies corroborate the various polymorphic nanostructures of the halogenated variants of KLVFF and confirm the possibility to use halogenation as innovative strategy to tune the morphology of this pentapeptide.
Cirsimaritin Contributes to the Estrogenic Activity of Cirsium japonicum var. maackii through the Activation of Estrogen Receptor α
Authors: Lee Dahae , Jung Yujung , Baek Ji Yun , Shin Myoung‐Sook , Lee Sanghyun , Hahm Dae‐Hyun , Lee Sang Cheon , Shim Jae Suk , Kim Su Nam , Kang Ki Sung
Published: November 2017

Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring plant‐derived chemicals that exert female hormone‐like activities similar to those of endogenous estrogens. The purpose of this study was to quantitate the estrogenic activity of six chemical constituents (apigenin, hispidulin, cirsimaritin, cirsimarin, pectolinarin, and linarin) of Cirsium japonicum var. maackii using several in vitro assays. Reporter gene activation by each compound was examined using a human breast cancer (MCF‐7) cell‐based transactivation assay. Proliferative activity was also examined using MCF‐7 cells. Reporter gene activation in MCF‐7 cells by cirsimaritin was significantly suppressed by co‐administration of the estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist ICI 182,780, indicating that cirsimaritin is an ER agonist. Under experimental conditions simulating postmenopausal syndrome (i.e., a low concentration of estrogen), cirsimaritin exerted beneficial effects on MCF‐7 cells by increasing estrogenic activity. These results suggest that cirsimaritin is an effective estrogenic compound that can improve postmenopausal symptoms.
Paranasal gossypiboma mimicking an aggressive tumor: a case report
Authors: Guerrouani Alae , Kairouani Mouna
Published: November 2017

Key Clinical Message

Even if gossypibomas are extremely rare in the Oro‐Maxillofacial region, they should be evoked in bizarre tumors when repeated histology tests are not contributive, especially in patients with a history of dento‐sinusal surgery. As it is recommended in general surgery, gauzes should be carefully counted when used in dentistry.
Phosphonate‐Mediated Immobilization of Rhodium/Bipyridine Hydrogenation Catalysts
Authors: Forato Florian , Belhboub Anouar , Monot Julien , Petit Marc , Benoit Roland , Sarou‐Kanian Vincent , Fayon Franck , Jacquemin Denis , Queffelec Clémence , Bujoli Bruno
Published: November 2017

RhL2 complexes of phosphonate‐derivatized 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) ligands L were immobilized on titanium oxide particles generated in situ. Depending on the structure of the bipy ligand—number of tethers (1 or 2) to which the phosphonate end groups are attached and their location on the 2,2′‐bipyridine backbone (4,4′‐, 5,5′‐, or 6,6′‐positions)—the resulting supported catalysts showed comparable chemoselectivity but different kinetics for the hydrogenation of 6‐methyl‐5‐hepten‐2‐one under hydrogen pressure. Characterization of the six supported catalysts suggested that the intrinsic geometry of each of the phosphonate‐derivatized 2,2′‐bipyridines leads to supported catalysts with different microstructures and different arrangements of the RhL2 species at the surface of the solid, which thereby affect their reactivity.
Expanding the Toolbox of Photoswitches for DNA Nanotechnology Using Arylazopyrazoles
Authors: Adam Volker , Prusty Deepak K. , Centola Mathias , Škugor Marko , Hannam Jeffrey S. , Valero Julián , Klöckner Bernhard , Famulok Michael
Published: November 2017

Photoregulation is among the most promising tools for development of dynamic DNA nanosystems, due to its high spatiotemporal precision, biocompatibility, and ease of use. So far, azobenzene and its derivatives have shown high potential in photocontrolling DNA duplex hybridization by light‐dependent photoisomerization. Despite many recent advances, obtaining sufficiently high photoswitching efficiency under conditions more suitable for work with DNA nanostructures are challenging. Here we introduce a pair of arylazopyrazoles as new photoswitches for efficient and reversible control of DNA hybridization achieved even at room temperature with a low number of required modifications. Their photophysical properties in the native state and in DNA strands result in near‐quantitative isomerization rates by irradiation with UV and orange light. To demonstrate the applicability of these photoswitches, we have successfully applied one of them to open and close a DNA hairpin by light at room temperature.
Significant Fluorescence Enhancement of N,N‐Dimethylaminobenzophenone after Embedding as a C‐Nucleoside in DNA
Authors: Schweigert Caroline , Gaß Nadine , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim , Unterreiner Andreas‐Neil
Published: November 2017

N,N‐dimethylaminobenzophenone (DMABP) represents an intramolecular donor–π–acceptor system resulting in luminescent properties that are highly sensitive to the local surrounding due to twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT). In this study, DMABP was covalently linked to a single (ss) or double‐stranded (ds) DNA and studied by a combination of UV/Vis absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy as well as femtosecond pump–probe measurements. As a result of embedding DMABP into a DNA environment, a drastic increase of the fluorescence quantum yield (QY) by a factor of more than 100 was detected, as further evidenced by an increase of the lifetime of the relevant excited states from less than 10 ps to more than 100 ps. A direct comparison between the ss‐ and ds‐DNA systems further demonstrates the high sensitivity to the surrounding area by means of a two‐fold difference in QY and fluorescence lifetimes. As a consequence, the respective DNA moiety (stacking and folding knot) affects significantly the competition between radiationless relaxation processes and fluorescence by interacting with DMABP.
Responses of soil respiration to soil management changes in an agropastoral ecotone in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Xue Haili , Tang Haiping
Published: November 2017

Studying the responses of soil respiration (Rs) to soil management changes is critical for enhancing our understanding of the global carbon cycle and has practical implications for grassland management. Therefore, the objectives of this study were (1) quantify daily and seasonal patterns of Rs, (2) evaluate the influence of abiotic factors on Rs, and (3) detect the effects of soil management changes on Rs. We hypothesized that (1) most of daily and seasonal variation in Rs could be explained by soil temperature (Ts) and soil water content (Sw), (2) soil management changes could significantly affect Rs, and (3) soil management changes affected Rs via the significant change in abiotic and biotic factors. In situ Rs values were monitored in an agropastoral ecotone in Inner Mongolia, China, during the growing seasons in 2009 (August to October) and 2010 (May to October). The soil management changes sequences included free grazing grassland (FG), cropland (CL), grazing enclosure grassland (GE), and abandoned cultivated grassland (AC). During the growing season in 2010, cumulative Rs for FG, CL, GE, and AC averaged 265.97, 344.74, 236.70, and 226.42 gC m−2 year−1, respectively. The Ts and Sw significantly influenced Rs and explained 66%–86% of the variability in daily Rs. Monthly mean temperature and precipitation explained 78%–96% of the variability in monthly Rs. The results clearly showed that Rs was increased by 29% with the conversion of FG to CL and decreased by 35% and 11% with the conversion of CL to AC and FG to GE. The factors impacting the change in Rs under different soil management changes sequences varied. Our results confirm the tested hypotheses. The increase in Q10 and litter biomass induced by conversion of FG to GE could lead to increased Rs if the climate warming. We suggest that after proper natural restoration period, grasslands should be utilized properly to decrease Rs.
Structure–activity investigation of the potentiating effect of cyano substitution on nitroaniline mutagenicity in the ames test
Authors: Josephy P. David , Dhanoa Joban , Elzawy George , Heney Kayla , Petrie Laurenne , Senis Chantel
Published: November 2017

2,6‐Dicyano‐4‐nitroaniline and 2‐cyano‐4‐nitroaniline (CNNA; 2‐amino‐5‐nitrobenzonitrile) are potent mutagens in the Ames test, even though unsubstituted nitroanilines (NAs) are no more than weak mutagens. These compounds are putative reduction products of many commercial azo dyes, including Disperse Blue 165, Disperse Blue 337, Disperse Red 73, Disperse Red 82, Disperse Violet 33, and Disperse Violet 63. We have examined the mutagenicity in strains TA98 and YG1024 of a series of commercially‐available isomers of CNNA, and some related compounds, to probe the relationship between structure and genotoxic activity in this class of compounds. The potentiating effect of the cyano substituent is seen in many cases; e.g. 2‐amino‐4‐nitrobenzonitrile is a much more potent mutagen than 3‐NA. 2,4‐Dinitrobenzonitrile is also highly mutagenic. Possible mechanisms for the “cyano effect” are considered, with respect to the likely structures of cyanonitroaniline‐DNA adducts and the roles of the enzymes (nitroreductase and acetyl CoA:arylamine N‐acetyltransferase) believed to be involved in the activation of nitroaromatic compounds. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:114–122, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.