bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interest exceeds understanding in public support of bee conservation
Authors: Wilson Joseph S , Forister Matthew L , Carril Olivia Messinger
Published: September 2017

Recent analyses suggesting that certain populations of bees may be declining have led to a variety of conservation efforts, many of which rely on public support and participation. However, little is known about the public's knowledge of bee diversity. We carried out a survey to measure public understanding of bee diversity and found that although 99% of respondents believed that bees are critical or important, only 14% were able to guess within 1000 the actual number of bee species in the US. Furthermore, when reviewing a selection of photographs depicting various insects, many respondents were unable to discern bees from non‐bees. Our findings show that even as scientific research on bees has rapidly expanded, the public remains largely uninformed on the subject, especially with regard to the wealth of bee diversity in the US. In light of the fact that conservation efforts require substantial public support, any programs aimed at stopping or mitigating bee population declines will need to include outreach and education measures.
Longitudinal variation of benthic macroinvertebrate communities in two contrasting tropical streams in Sri Lanka
Authors: Weliange Wasantha S. , Leichtfried Maria , Amarasinghe Upali S. , Füreder Leopold
Published: September 2017

The benthic macroinvertebrate fauna and main abiotic parameters were studied to understand the patterns of diversity and structure along the temporal and longitudinal gradients in two tropical lotic ecosystems in the wet and dry zones of Sri Lanka. Invertebrate abundance (annual means) was in the same magnitude in the two streams (2,520 ind. m−2 in the wet zone stream and 2,940 ind. m−2 in the dry zone stream). Both streams had similar annual mean diversity levels measured as Shannon diversity (Eswathu Oya (wet zone) = 2.11; Yan Oya (dry zone) = 2.07), with a mean annual evenness (Pielou evenness) of 0.56 ± 0.14 for Eswathu Oya and 0.60 ± 0.09 for Yan Oya. Along the longitudinal gradient, abundance and taxa richness increased toward the lower reaches in the wet zone stream but decreased in the dry zone stream. Composition of functional feeding groups was greatly influenced by abiotic factors in the temporal gradient than in the longitudinal gradient. This was possibly due to the seasonal patterns of flow regimes, and allochthonous nutrient inputs into the streams. Hence, resource management and conservation as well as attempts of ecological assessment in tropical streams should be based not only on the in‐stream characteristics but also on the catchment properties.
A nexus of linear and non‐linear relationships between tourism demand, renewable energy consumption, and economic growth: Theory and evidence
Authors: Isik Cem , Dogru Tarik , Turk Ercan Sirakaya
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationships between tourism development, renewable energy consumption, and economic growth in the United States, France, Spain, China, Italy, Turkey, and Germany using an innovative bootstrap panel Granger causality model. The results show that tourism development and economic growth are interdependent in Germany; whereas tourism development induces economic growth in China and Turkey, the reverse is true in Spain. Causal relationships between renewable energy and economic growth give credence to theories of renewable energy‐led growth in Spain and growth‐led renewable energy in China, Turkey, and Germany. Whereas the Italian and U.S. models demonstrate a bidirectional relationship, the Spanish, Italian, Turkish, and U.S. data show a causal link stemming from tourism development. Theoretical and policy implications are discussed within the realm of macroeconomics and sustainability.
The Challenge of Improving Coastal Mudflat Soil: Formation and Stability of Organo‐mineral Complexes
Authors: Bai Yanchao , Xue Weijie , Yan Yiyun , Zuo Wengang , Shan Yuhua , Feng Ke
Published: September 2017

The mudflats along the east coast of China can be important alternative sources for arable lands after amendment. The newly reclaimed mudflats as typical saline soils are not suitable for cultivation owing to high salinity and nutrient deficiencies. The key to amending mudflat saline soils into fertile soils is to reduce salinity in the top layer of soil. Salinity reduction is usually accomplished through rainfall and freshwater irrigation. However, lack of good soil aggregation status might attribute to salt solution rise through soil capillary. Increasing soil organic matter promoted the formation of organo‐mineral complexes and clustered soil aggregates, which is a prerequisite of hindering re‐salinization, improving fertility and facilitating the evolution of coastal mudflat soil into agricultural soil. Research on the formation of clustered soil aggregates during the evolution of mudflat soil into fertile soil should focus on the formation mechanism, influencing factors and regulatory mechanism of organo‐mineral complexes in the early stage after organic matter enters the soil. In addition, exploration of the effects of the special properties of mudflat soil, for example, high saline, high pH and low levels of clay particles, on the formation and stability of organo‐mineral complexes in soil is necessary. Research on this topic can provide scientific evidences to efficiently utilize organic resources and accelerate the evolution of mudflat soil into agricultural soil. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of sediment bacterial communities in plain lakes with different trophic statuses
Authors: Huang Wei , Chen Xing , Jiang Xia , Zheng Binghui
Published: September 2017

Sediment microbial communities play an important role in lake trophic status. This study determined millions of Illumina reads (16S rRNA gene amplicons) to compare the bacterial communities in moderately eutrophic, lightly eutrophic, and moderately trophic regions using a technically consistent approach. The results indicated that the sediments from moderately eutrophic and trophic lake had the higher bacterial diversity than lightly eutrophic lake. Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum (22.7%–86.2%) across samples from three regions. The sediments from moderately eutrophic region were enriched with Chloroflexi and Nitrospirae. Alphaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were enriched in the sediments from lightly eutrophic lake. The sediments from moderately trophic lake contained a high abundance of Acidobacteria and Deltaproteobacteria because of the low pH of the sediments in this lake. In moderately eutrophic region, Nitrospira held an absolute predominance, while Lysobacter and Flavobacterium were the most predominant genera in lightly eutrophic region. Temperature was the main factor influencing the bacterial community in the three lakes. The bacterial communities in the sediment samples obtained from moderately eutrophic lake were associated with nutrient concentration, whereas organic matter and total nitrogen contents mainly influenced the bacterial communities in sediments obtained from lightly eutrophic lake and moderately trophic lake, respectively.
Preparation and Properties of CL‐20 based Composite by Direct Ink Writing
Authors: Wang Jingyu , Xu Chuanhao , An Chongwei , Song Changkun , Liu Bin , Wu Bidong , Geng Xiaoheng
Published: September 2017

Direct ink writing (DIW) is a new trend in the micro‐scale charging of energetic materials. In this study, a CL‐20 based composite was prepared using DIW, and its properties were characterized. Results indicated that the particles of the composite are found at the sub‐micron level, and a single layer measures at 2.4 μm. The composite has high density and low impact sensitivity, and its critical detonation size is around 1×0.4 mm. This feature will contribute to the detonation at the micro levelto a certain degree.
Re: Clomiphene citrate and letrozole to reduce follicle‐stimulating hormone consumption during ovarian stimulation: systematic review and meta‐analysis. T. N. Bechtejew, M. N. Nadai, C. O. Nastri and W. P. Martins. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017; 50: 315–323.
Authors: Siristatidis C.
Published: September 2017

Linked Comment: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017; 50: 315–323
Influence of Geographical Origins on the Physicochemical Properties of Hass Avocado Oil
Authors: Tan C. X. , Tan S. S. , Tan S. T.
Published: September 2017

A study was conducted to compare the physicochemical properties of Hass avocado oil from different geographical locations (Mexico, Australia, United States and New Zealand). Regardless of geographical origins, Hass avocado pulp was characterized by high lipid content (61.27–62.66%). Among Hass avocados of different origins examined, avocado oil of New Zealand origin exhibited the lowest saponification value. The L*, a* and b* values for avocados of New Zealand origin were higher than others, translating into the oil being the lightest in color and containing more red and yellow pigments. The predominant fatty acids in the Hass avocado oil were oleic (42.59–50.97%) and palmitic (20.61–25.63%) acids, whereas the predominant triacylglycerols (TAGs) were OOO (21.41–34.69%) and POO (19.65–24.68%), where O and P denote oleic and palmitic acids, respectively. The melting curves of Hass avocado oil displayed three endothermic peaks, whereas the crystallization curves displayed two endothermic peaks. Hass avocado oil of New Zealand origin contained a significant amount of natural pigments and unsaturated compounds (unsaturated fatty acids and tri‐unsaturated TAGs) than Mexico, Australia and United States origins.
Retinal venous pressure measurements in patients with Flammer syndrome and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Mustur Dominique , Vahedian Zakieh , Bovet Jerome , Mozaffarieh Maneli
Published: September 2017

Background

The purpose of this research is to analyze retinal venous pressure (RVP) of both eyes of patients who visited a Swiss ophthalmic practice and compare values among the following groups of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), Flammer syndrome (FS), and metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Methods

RVP was measured in both eyes of all patients who visited a Swiss ophthalmic practice during March 2016 till November 2016, and the results were analyzed retrospectively. All measurements were performed by one physician by means of ophthalmodynamometry. Ophthalmodynamometry is done by applying an increasing pressure on the eye via a contact lens. The minimum force required to induce a venous pulsation is called ophthalmodynamometric force (ODF). The RVP is defined and calculated as the sum of ODF and intraocular pressure (IOP) [RVP = ODF + IOP].

Results

Spontaneous central retinal venous pulsation was present in the majority of the patients (192 out of 357, 53.8%). Spontaneous RVP rate was significantly negatively correlated with age (r = −0.348, p < 0.001). A significantly increased RVP was noted in FS, MetS, and POAG patients, particularly those POAG patients who also suffered from FS (p < 0.005).

Conclusions

Although most patients had a spontaneous RVP, those with FS, POAG, and MetS had increased RVP. Measuring RVP by means of ophthalmodynamometry provides predictive information about certain ocular diseases and aids in instituting adequate preventive measures.
Pharmacogenomics in the treatment of mood disorders: Strategies and Opportunities for personalized psychiatry
Authors: Amare Azmeraw T. , Schubert Klaus Oliver , Baune Bernhard T.
Published: September 2017

Personalized medicine (personalized psychiatry in a specific setting) is a new model towards individualized care, in which knowledge from genomics and other omic pillars (microbiome, epigenomes, proteome, and metabolome) will be combined with clinical data to guide efforts to new drug development and targeted prescription of the existing treatment options. In this review, we summarize pharmacogenomic studies in mood disorders that may lay the foundation towards personalized psychiatry. In addition, we have discussed the possible strategies to integrate data from omic pillars as a future path to personalized psychiatry. So far, the progress of uncovering single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) underpinning treatment efficacy in mood disorders (e.g., SNPs associated with selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors or lithium treatment response in patients with bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder) are encouraging, but not adequate. Genetic studies have pointed to a number of SNPs located at candidate genes that possibly influence response to; (a) antidepressantsCOMT,HTR2A,HTR1A,CNR1,SLC6A4, NPY,MAOA,IL1B,GRIK4,BDNF,GNB3,FKBP5,CYP2D6,CYP2C19, andABCB1and (b) mood stabilizers (lithium)5-HTT,TPH,DRD1,FYN,INPP1,CREB1,BDNF,GSK3β,ARNTL,TIM,DPB,NR3C1,BCR,XBP1, andCACNG2. We suggest three alternative and complementary strategies to implement knowledge gained from pharmacogenomic studies. The first strategy can be to implement diagnostic, therapeutic, or prognostic genetic testing based on candidate genes or gene products. The second alternative is an integrative analysis (systems genomics approach) to combine omics data obtained from the different pillars of omics investigation, including genomics, epigenomes, proteomics, metabolomics and microbiomes. The main goal of system genomics is an identification and understanding of biological pathways, networks, and modules underlying drug-response. The third strategy aims to the development of multivariable diagnostic or prognostic algorithms (tools) combining individual’s genomic information (polygenic score) with other predictors (e.g., omics pillars, neuroimaging, and clinical characteristics) to finally predict therapeutic outcomes. An integration of molecular science with that of traditional clinical practice is the way forward to drug discoveries and novel therapeutic approaches and to characterize psychiatric disorders leading to a better predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM) in psychiatry. With future advances in the omics technology and methodological developments for data integration, the goal of PPPM in psychiatry is promising.
The Population Education Transition Curve: Education Gradients Across Population Exposure to New Health Risks
Authors: Baker David P. , Smith William C. , Muñoz Ismael G. , Jeon Haram , Fu Tian , Leon Juan , Salinas Daniel , Horvatek Renata
Published: September 2017

The salutary effect of formal education on health-risk behaviors and mortality is extensively documented: ceteris paribus, greater educational attainment leads to healthier lives and longevity. Even though the epidemiological evidence has strongly indicated formal education as a leading “social vaccine,” there is intermittent reporting of counter-education gradients for health-risk behavior and associated outcomes for certain populations during specific periods. How can education have both beneficial and harmful effects on health, and under which contexts do particular effects emerge? It is useful to conceptualize the influence of education as a process sensitive to the nature, timing of entry, and uniqueness of a new pleasurable and desirable lifestyle and/or product (such as smoking) with initially unclear health risks for populations. Developed herein is a hypothesis that the education gradient comprises multiple potent pathways (material, psychological, cognitive) by which health-risk behaviors are influenced, and that there can be circumstances under which pathways act in opposite directions or are differentially suppressed and enhanced. We propose the population education transition (PET) curve as a unifying functional form to predict shifting education gradients across the onset and course of a population’s exposure to new health risks and their associated consequences. Then, we estimate PET curves for cases with prior epidemiological evidence of heterogeneous education gradients with health-risk behaviors related to mass-produced cigarettes in China and the United States; saturated fats, sugar, and processed food diets in Latin America; and HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa. Each offers speculation on interactions between environmental factors during population exposure and education pathways to health-risk behaviors that could be responsible for the temporal dynamics of PET curves. Past epidemiological studies reporting either negative or positive education gradients may not represent contradictory findings as much as come from analyses unintentionally limited to just one part of the PET process. Last, the PET curve formulation offers richer nuances about educational pathways, macro-historical population dynamics, and the fundamental cause of disease paradigm.
Resolvent and spectral measure on non-trapping asymptotically hyperbolic manifolds III: Global-in-time Strichartz estimates without loss
Authors: Chen Xi
Published: September 2017

In the present paper, we investigate global-in-time Strichartz estimates without loss on non-trapping asymptotically hyperbolic manifolds. Due to the hyperbolic nature of such manifolds, the set of admissible pairs for Strichartz estimates is much larger than usual. These results generalize the works on hyperbolic space due to Anker–Pierfelice and Ionescu–Staffilani. However, our approach is to employ the spectral measure estimates, obtained in the author's joint work with Hassell, to establish the dispersive estimates for truncated/microlocalized Schrödinger propagators as well as the corresponding energy estimates. Compared with hyperbolic space, the crucial point here is to cope with the conjugate points on the manifold. Additionally, these Strichartz estimates are applied to the

L^{2}

well-posedness and

L^{2}

scattering for nonlinear Schrödinger equations with power-like nonlinearity and small Cauchy data.

Dans cet article, nous examinons les estimations de Strichartz sans perte et globales en temps, définies sur des variétés non-captives asymptotiquement hyperboliques. De par la nature hyperbolique de ces variétés, l'ensemble des paires admissibles pour les estimations de Strichartz est beaucoup plus grand que d'ordinaire. Ces résultats généralisent les travaux menés par Anker–Pierfelice et Ionescu–Staffilani sur les espaces hyperboliques. Toutefois, notre approche utilise ici les estimations de mesures spectrales obtenues par l'auteur en collaboration avec Hassell afin d'établir les estimations de dispersion pour des propagateurs de Schrödinger tronqués ou micro-localisés ainsi que les estimations d'énergie correspondantes. À la différence des espaces hyperboliques, l'élément crucial est ici de gérer les points conjugués de la variété. Enfin, ces estimations de Strichartz sont appliquées au caractère bien posé dans

L^{2}

et à la diffusion

L^{2}

pour les équations de Schrödinger avec des non-linearités de type puissance et des données initiales petites.
Trends in Skin and Soft Tissue-Related Injuries in NOLS Wilderness Expeditions from 1984 to 2012
Authors: Stanford Kimberly A. , Phillips Lara , Chang Yuchiao , Leemon Drew , Schimelpfenig Tod , Harris N. Stuart
Published: September 2017

Objective

Wilderness expeditions inevitably involve risk to participants. Understanding of expedition-related illnesses and injuries allows institutions and individuals to develop strategies to mitigate risk. We describe findings and trends in soft tissue injuries, the second-most common type of injury, among participants in the National Outdoor Leadership School expeditions from 1984 to 2012.

Methods

Injuries and illnesses sustained by students and staff have been recorded continuously since 1984 in the extensive National Outdoor Leadership School database. We performed a retrospective analysis of incidence of soft tissue injuries in this population. Data before 1996 were standardized in order to make use of the entire dataset.

Results

Of 9734 total reported incidents, 2151 (22%) were soft tissue related, 707 (33%) of which required evacuation. The sex distribution of incidents was similar to the sex distribution of participants. The largest incidence of soft tissue injuries occurred independent of activity (711 incidents, 33%). The most commonly associated activities were hiking (528 incidents, 25%), camping (301 incidents, 14%), and cooking (205 incidents, 10%). Over the study period, rates of injury declined overall and in every individual category except cooking.

Conclusions

Over this 28-year period, the incidence of soft tissue injuries associated with the most common activities decreased. Incidence of activity-independent injuries did not change significantly, but reported severity decreased. These data provide unique insights to help improve wilderness risk management for institutions and individuals and suggest areas in which educational efforts may further reduce risk.
Does Information Asymmetry Affect Corporate Tax Aggressiveness?
Authors: Chen Tao , Lin Chen
Published: September 2017

We investigate the effect of information asymmetry on corporate tax avoidance. Using a difference-in-differences matching estimator to assess the effects of changes in analyst coverage caused by broker closures and mergers, we find that firms avoid tax more aggressively after a reduction in analyst coverage. We further find that this effect is mainly driven by firms with higher existing tax-planning capacity (e.g., tax-haven presence), smaller initial analyst coverage, and a smaller number of peer firms. Moreover, the effect is more pronounced in industries where reputation matters more and in firms subject to less monitoring from tax authorities.
Editorial
Authors: Burger Martin , King John , Ward Michael
Published: September 2017

The special lead article in this issue of EJAM, by Profs. John Ockendon and Brian Sleeman, is dedicated to Prof. Joseph B. Keller (referred to as Joe by his friends), Emeritus professor of Stanford University, who was one of the greatest applied mathematicians of our time. Joe died in September 2016. A workshop in honour of Joe was held at the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Cambridge, UK, in March 2017, focussing on some of the astonishingly wide range of topics in the mathematical sciences and continuum mechanics that Joe made substantial contributions to over his long career. This article discusses some of these pioneering contributions, describes some modern developments as discussed by the workshop speakers, and provides a more personal tribute to Joe, his history, and to his large influence on the international applied mathematics community. May the spirit of Joe, and his flavour of applied mathematics, continue to be reflected in EJAM.
The developing world of DOHaD
Authors: Suzuki K.
Published: September 2017

Since its debut in a ground-breaking report by Barker and Osmond in 1986, the concept of the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) has been further developed in several aspects. Its methodology and conclusions relating to proposed origins and outcomes of early life events have been developing and spreading internationally. Indeed, the DOHaD concept now seems to have influenced many fields of research. This article aims to briefly review why the DOHaD concept is important in biomedical science, how it has developed, is currently developing, and how it should develop in future.
In rats gestational iron deficiency does not change body fat or hepatic mitochondria in the aged offspring
Authors: Rees W. D. , Hay S. M. , Hayes H. E. , Birgovan C. , McArdle H. J.
Published: September 2017

Mitochondrial dysfunction and resulting changes in adiposity have been observed in the offspring of animals fed a high fat (HF) diet. As iron is an important component of the mitochondria, we have studied the offspring of female rats fed complete (Con) or iron-deficient (FeD) rations for the duration of gestation to test for similar effects. The FeD offspring were ~12% smaller at weaning and remained so because of a persistent reduction in lean tissue mass. The offspring were fed a complete (stock) diet until 52 weeks of age after which some animals from each litter were fed a HF diet for a further 12 weeks. The HF diet increased body fat when compared with animals fed the stock diet, however, prenatal iron deficiency did not change the ratio of fat:lean in either the stock or HF diet groups. The HF diet caused triglyceride to accumulate in the liver, however, there was no effect of prenatal iron deficiency. The activity of the mitochondrial electron transport complexes was similar in all groups including those challenged with a HF diet. HF feeding increased the number of copies of mitochondrial DNA and the prevalence of the D-loop mutation, however, neither parameter was affected by prenatal iron deficiency. This study shows that the effects of prenatal iron deficiency differ from other models in that there is no persistent effect on hepatic mitochondria in aged animals exposed to an increased metabolic load.
Vignettentest zur Erfassung des fachdidaktischen Wissens im Leseunterricht bei angehenden Lehrkräften
Authors: Rutsch Juliane , Dörfler Tobias
Published: September 2017

Zusammenfassung. Es wird ein standardisiertes vignettenbasiertes Testverfahren zur Erfassung des fachdidaktischen Wissens im Leseunterricht bei angehenden Lehrkräften vorgestellt. Basierend auf Evidenzen der lesedidaktischen und kognitionspsychologischen Forschung wurden hierzu Unterrichtsvignetten erstellt. In diesen Vignetten werden authentische Situationen aus dem Leseunterricht beschrieben, die hinsichtlich einer fachdidaktisch relevanten Fragestellung in einem geschlossenen Antwortformat bewertet wurden. Das Testinstrument wurde 576 Deutschlehramtsstudierenden aller Semester vorgelegt (Alter: M = 23.08 Jahre, SD = 3.32). Der Vignettentest wurde mit dem Partial Credit Modell skaliert. Die Analysen zur Datenstruktur sprechen für ein eindimensionales Modell des fachdidaktischen Wissens im Leseunterricht; die Infit- und Outfitstatistiken für die verbleibenden Vignetten weisen auf eine gute Passung der Vignetten zum Modell hin (Werte zwischen 0.98 und 1.00, alle p ≤ .05 für alle Modelle). Die Verteilung der Itemkategorieschwellen und der Personenparameter werden graphisch illustriert. Die Ergebnisse zur Datenstruktur und zur Skalierung sind als vielversprechend zu bezeichnen und sollen in nachfolgenden (längsschnittlichen) Analysen ergänzt und präzisiert werden.
Diagnostische Tests mit R und knitr
Authors: Spoden Christian , Buchwald Florian
Published: September 2017

Zusammenfassung. In dieser Software-Information werden Möglichkeiten zur Erstellung und Auswertung diagnostischer Tests mit vorwiegend geschlossenen Antwortformaten sowie die Vorbereitung der Ergebnisrückmeldung mit Hilfe des R-Pakets knitr ( Xie, 2015 , 2016 ) zur Erstellung dynamischer Dokumente erläutert. Das konkrete Vorgehen wird in vier Arbeitsschritten am Beispiel der Erstellung einer universitären Klausur mit Multiple-Choice-Antwortformat im Fach Methodenlehre exemplarisch illustriert.
Learning From One’s Mistakes
Authors: Ruthig Joelle C. , Jones Kelly , Vanderzanden Karen , Gamblin Bradlee W. , Kehn Andre
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Optimistic performance estimates tend to diminish as performance and feedback draw near, yet it is unclear what contributes to subsequent performance estimates after feedback. At multiple time points, 166 undergraduates estimated their performance on two exams within a course, which was then compared to their actual exam scores. Along with assessing accuracy and shifts in estimates as performance and feedback drew near, the current study explored the mechanisms involved in “learning from one’s mistakes” by examining what happens after feedback on actual performance. We assessed the post-feedback emotional impact of performance estimates and identified predictors of subsequent estimates and later performance. Although, individuals overestimated their performance for both exams, feedback on Exam 1 resulted in significantly lower estimates for Exam 2. Irrespective of actual performance, higher expectations detrimentally impacted emotional responses to feedback, prior estimates played a central role in predicting subsequent estimates, and various predictors of actual subsequent performance were identified. Findings contribute to understanding changes in pre- to post-feedback performance expectations and identify predictive factors of post-feedback performance estimates and later performance.
Seed-induced acceleration of amyloid-β mediated neurotoxicity in vivo
Authors: Sowade Ramona F. , Jahn Thomas R.
Published: September 2017

Seeded propagation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) pathology is suggested to contribute to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Local overproduction of aggregation-prone Aβ variants could explain the focal initiation of a seeding cascade that subsequently triggers widespread pathology. Several animal models support this seeding concept by demonstrating accelerated Aβ deposition following inoculation with Aβ-containing homogenates, however its role in progressive neurodegeneration remains unclear. Here, we present a non-invasive approach to study Aβ seeding processes in vivo using Drosophila models. We show that small amounts of aggregation-competent Aβ42 seeds, generated in selected neuronal clusters, can induce the deposition of the pan-neuronally expressed and otherwise soluble Aβ40. Moreover, our models visualize the accelerated formation and propagation of amyloid pathology throughout the brain, which correlates with severe neurotoxicity. Taken together, these in vivo models provide mechanistic insights into disease-related processes and represent versatile genetic tools to determine novel modifiers of the Aβ seeding cascade.
Observing a scale anomaly and a universal quantum phase transition in graphene
Authors: Ovdat O. , Mao Jinhai , Jiang Yuhang , Andrei E. Y. , Akkermans E.
Published: September 2017

One of the most interesting predictions resulting from quantum physics, is the violation of classical symmetries, collectively referred to as anomalies. A remarkable class of anomalies occurs when the continuous scale symmetry of a scale-free quantum system is broken into a discrete scale symmetry for a critical value of a control parameter. This is an example of a (zero temperature) quantum phase transition. Such an anomaly takes place for the quantum inverse square potential known to describe ‘Efimov physics’. Broken continuous scale symmetry into discrete scale symmetry also appears for a charged and massless Dirac fermion in an attractive 1/r Coulomb potential. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the universality of this quantum phase transition and to present convincing experimental evidence of its existence for a charged and massless fermion in an attractive Coulomb potential as realized in graphene.
Microwaves effectively examine the extent and type of coking over acid zeolite catalysts
Authors: Liu B. , Slocombe D. R. , Wang J. , Aldawsari A. , Gonzalez-Cortes S. , Arden J. , Kuznetsov V. L. , AlMegren H. , AlKinany M. , Xiao T. , Edwards P. P.
Published: September 2017

Coking leads to the deactivation of solid acid catalyst. This phenomenon is a ubiquitous problem in the modern petrochemical and energy transformation industries. Here, we show a method based on microwave cavity perturbation analysis for an effective examination of both the amount and the chemical composition of cokes formed over acid zeolite catalysts. The employed microwave cavity can rapidly and non-intrusively measure the catalytically coked zeolites with sample full body penetration. The overall coke amount is reflected by the obtained dielectric loss (ε″) value, where different coke compositions lead to dramatically different absorption efficiencies (ε″/cokes’ wt%). The deeper-dehydrogenated coke compounds (e.g., polyaromatics) lead to an apparently higher ε″/wt% value thus can be effectively separated from lightly coked compounds. The measurement is based on the nature of coke formation during catalytic reactions, from saturated status (e.g., aliphatic) to graphitized status (e.g., polyaromatics), with more delocalized electrons obtained for enhanced Maxwell–Wagner polarization.
Molecular analogue of the perovskite repeating unit and evidence for direct MnIII-CeIV-MnIII exchange coupling pathway
Authors: Thuijs Annaliese E. , Li Xiang-Guo , Wang Yun-Peng , Abboud Khalil A. , Zhang X.-G. , Cheng Hai-Ping , Christou George
Published: September 2017

The perovskite manganites AMnO3 and their doped analogues A1–x
B
x
MnO3 (A and B = main group and lanthanide metals) are a fascinating family of magnetic oxides exhibiting a rich variety of properties. They are thus under intense investigation along multiple fronts, one of which is how their structural and physical properties are modified at the nanoscale. Here we show that the molecular compound [Ce3Mn8O8(O2CPh)18(HO2CPh)2] (CeIII2CeIVMnIII8; hereafter Ce3Mn8) bears a striking structural resemblance to the repeating unit seen in the perovskite manganites. Further, magnetic studies have established that Ce3Mn8 exhibits both the combination of pairwise MnIII2 ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic exchange interactions, and the resultant spin vector alignments that are found within the 3-D C-type antiferromagnetic perovskites. First-principles theoretical calculations reveal not only the expected nearest-neighbor MnIII2 exchange couplings via superexchange pathways through bridging ligands but also an unusual, direct MnIII–CeIV–MnIII metal-to-metal channel involving the CeIVf orbitals.
Photo-triggered solvent-free metamorphosis of polymeric materials
Authors: Honda Satoshi , Toyota Taro
Published: September 2017

Liquefaction and solidification of materials are the most fundamental changes observed during thermal phase transitions, yet the design of organic and polymeric soft materials showing isothermal reversible liquid–nonliquid conversion remains challenging. Here, we demonstrate that solvent-free repeatable molecular architectural transformation between liquid-star and nonliquid-network polymers that relies on cleavage and reformation of a covalent bond in hexaarylbiimidazole. Liquid four-armed star-shaped poly(n-butyl acrylate) and poly(dimethyl siloxane) with 2,4,5-triphenylimidazole end groups were first synthesized. Subsequent oxidation of the 2,4,5-triphenylimidazoles into 2,4,5-triphenylimidazoryl radicals and their coupling with these liquid star polymers to form hexaarylbiimidazoles afforded the corresponding nonliquid network polymers. The resulting nonliquid network polymers liquefied upon UV irradiation and produced liquid star-shaped polymers with 2,4,5-triphenylimidazoryl radical end groups that reverted to nonliquid network polymers again by recoupling of the generated 2,4,5-triphenylimidazoryl radicals immediately after terminating UV irradiation.
Children’s, parents’ and health professionals’ views on the management of childhood asthma: a qualitative study
Authors: Searle Aidan , Jago Russell , Henderson John , Turner Katrina M.
Published: September 2017

The management of childhood asthma is often sub-optimal. Parents and other caregivers are primarily responsible for disease management and this responsibility includes communication with health professionals. The aim of this multi-perspective qualitative study was to explore the views of children, parents and health professionals to gain insight into the approach to clinical care in the management of childhood asthma. Interviews were held with nine parent–child (6–8 years) dyads, and 13 health professionals working in primary and secondary care. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Three key themes emerged that were common to all data sets; (1) Child and parent awareness of symptoms; (2) Management and child wellbeing; and (3) Professional communication education and consultation with families. Although some children demonstrate good awareness of symptoms and appropriate use of medication, some parents expressed difficulty in identifying triggers and symptoms of asthma. Furthermore, parents lacked awareness regarding appropriate use of medication for preventing and managing symptoms of asthma. Health professionals believed that communication and education was lacking. Data from all participants suggested that consultations could be enhanced with greater emphasis on children’s and parents’ perceptions of asthma in the development of asthma management plans.
Non-stoquastic Hamiltonians in quantum annealing via geometric phases
Authors: Vinci Walter , Lidar Daniel A.
Published: September 2017

We argue that a complete description of quantum annealing implemented with continuous variables must take into account the non-adiabatic Aharonov-Anandan geometric phase that arises when the system Hamiltonian changes during the anneal. We show that this geometric effect leads to the appearance of non-stoquasticity in the effective quantum Ising Hamiltonians that are typically used to describe quantum annealing with flux qubits. We explicitly demonstrate the effect of this geometric non-stoquasticity when quantum annealing is performed with a system of one and two coupled flux qubits. The realization of non-stoquastic Hamiltonians has important implications from a computational complexity perspective, since it is believed that in many cases quantum annealing with stoquastic Hamiltonians can be efficiently simulated via classical algorithms such as Quantum Monte Carlo. It is well known that the direct implementation of non-stoquastic Hamiltonians with flux qubits is particularly challenging. Our results suggest an alternative path for the implementation of non-stoquasticity via geometric phases that can be exploited for computational purposes.
Mechanical bone growth stimulation by magnetic fibre networks obtained through a competent finite element technique
Authors: Bosbach Wolfram A.
Published: September 2017

Fibre networks combined with a matrix material in their void phase make the design of novel and smart composite materials possible. Their application is of great interest in the field of advanced paper or as bioactive tissue engineering scaffolds. In the present study, we analyse the mechanical interaction between metallic fibre networks under magnetic actuation and a matrix material. Experimentally validated FE models are combined for that purpose in one joint simulation. High performance computing facilities are used. The resulting strain in the composite’s matrix is not uniform across the sample volume. Instead we show that boundary conditions and proximity to the fibre structure strongly influence the local strain magnitude. An analytical model of local strain magnitude is derived. The strain magnitude of 0.001 which is of particular interest for bone growth stimulation is achievable by this assembly. In light of these findings, the investigated composite structure is suitable for creating and for regulating contactless a stress field which is to be imposed on the matrix material. Topics for future research will be the advanced modelling of the biological components and the potential medical utilisation.
Evidence for biochemical barrier restoration: Topical solenopsin analogs improve inflammation and acanthosis in the KC-Tie2 mouse model of psoriasis
Authors: Arbiser Jack L. , Nowak Ron , Michaels Kellie , Skabytska Yuliya , Biedermann Tilo , Lewis Monica J. , Bonner Michael Y. , Rao Shikha , Gilbert Linda C. , Yusuf Nabiha , Karlsson Isabella , Fritz Yi , Ward Nicole L.
Published: September 2017

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting 2.5–6 million patients in the United States. The cause of psoriasis remains unknown. Previous human and animal studies suggest that patients with a susceptible genetic background and some stimulus, such as barrier disruption, leads to a coordinated signaling events involving cytokines between keratinocytes, endothelial cells, T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells. Ceramides are endogenous skin lipids essential for maintaining skin barrier function and loss of ceramides may underlie inflammatory and premalignant skin. Ceramides act as a double-edged sword, promoting normal skin homeostasis in the native state, but can be metabolized to sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), linked to inflammation and tumorigenesis. To overcome this difficulty, we synthesized solenopsin analogs which biochemically act as ceramides, but cannot be metabolized to S1P. We assess their in vivo bioactivity in a well-established mouse model of psoriasis, the KC-Tie2 mouse. Topical solenopsin derivatives normalized cutaneous hyperplasia in this model, decreased T cell infiltration, interleukin (IL)-22 transcription, and reversed the upregulation of calprotectin and Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 in inflamed skin. Finally, they stimulated interleukin (IL)-12 production in skin dendritic cells. Thus suggesting barrier restoration has both a biochemical and physical component, and both are necessary for optimal barrier restoration.
Utilization of photographs taken by citizens for estimating bumblebee distributions
Authors: Suzuki-Ohno Yukari , Yokoyama Jun , Nakashizuka Tohru , Kawata Masakado
Published: September 2017

Citizen science is a powerful tool for collecting large volumes of observational data on various species. These data are used to estimate distributions using environmental factors with Species Distribution Models (SDM). However, if citizens are inexperienced in recognizing organisms, they may report different species as the subject species. Here we show nation-wide bumblebee distributions using photographs taken by citizens in our project, and estimated distributions for six bumblebee species using land use, climate, and altitude data with SDM. We identified species from photographic images, and took their locations from GPS data of photographs or the text in e-mails. When we compared our data with conventional data for specimens in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), we found that the volume and the number of species were larger, and the bias of spatial range was lower, than those of GBIF. Our estimated distributions were more consistent with bumblebee distributions reported in previous studies than with those of GBIF. Our method was effective for collecting distribution data, and estimating distributions with SDM. The estimated SDM allows us to predict the previous and future species distributions, and to develop conservation policies taking account of future city planning and/or global climate changes.
Preparation of Monolayer MoS2 Quantum Dots using Temporally Shaped Femtosecond Laser Ablation of Bulk MoS2 Targets in Water
Authors: Li Bo , Jiang Lan , Li Xin , Ran Peng , Zuo Pei , Wang Andong , Qu Liangti , Zhao Yang , Cheng Zhihua , Lu Yongfeng
Published: September 2017

Zero-dimensional MoS2 quantum dots (QDs) possess distinct physical and chemical properties, which have garnered them considerable attention and facilitates their use in a broad range of applications. In this study, we prepared monolayer MoS2 QDs using temporally shaped femtosecond laser ablation of bulk MoS2 targets in water. The morphology, crystal structures, chemical, and optical properties of the MoS2 QDs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV–vis absorption spectra, and photoluminescence spectra. The analysis results show that highly pure, uniform, and monolayer MoS2 QDs can be successfully prepared. Moreover, by temporally shaping a conventional single pulse into a two-subpulse train, the production rate of MoS2 nanomaterials (including nanosheets, nanoparticles, and QDs) and the ratio of small size MoS2 QDs can be substantially improved. The underlying mechanism is a combination of multilevel photoexfoliation of monolayer MoS2 and water photoionization–enhanced light absorption. The as-prepared MoS2 QDs exhibit excellent electrocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reactions because of the abundant active edge sites, high specific surface area, and excellent electrical conductivity. Thus, this study provides a simple and green alternative strategy for the preparation of monolayer QDs of transition metal dichalcogenides or other layered materials.
Associations between aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) rs671 genetic polymorphisms, lifestyles and hypertension risk in Chinese Han people
Authors: Ma Cong , Yu Bingxiang , Zhang Weihua , Wang Weimin , Zhang Liping , Zeng Qiang
Published: September 2017

Hypertension is a multiple factor disease which was influenced by gene, environment, and lifestyle. Several studies confirmed that the ALDH2 rs671 polymorphism is associated with hypertension. However, the evidence remains inconclusive. Whether lifestyle affects blood pressure in different genotype groups have not been clarified, either. The subjects were adult Chinese Han people who received health examination in the period from December 2014 to December 2015. Detection of the ALDH2 r671 polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction. Lifestyle data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Basic characteristics and fasting venous blood sample were collected at baseline. 4018 subjects were eligible for participation.The frequencies of the ALDH2 rs671 genotype were 68.67% (GG), 28.67%(GL), 2.66%(LL), respectively. Pepole who harbored the L allele were less likely to develop incident hypertension. There was a significant association between food frequency and hypertension in the L genotype group. Fried food intake was significantly increased the risk of hypertension in the L genotype group. Our study suggested that ALDH2 rs671 L-genotypes are protective factors for hypertension in Han Chinese. Consumption of fried food accelerated the development of hypertension in individuals with poor metabolism of acetaldehyde.
The effects of ageing and adrenergic challenge on electrocardiographic phenotypes in a murine model of long QT syndrome type 3
Authors: Chadda Karan R. , Ahmad Shiraz , Valli Haseeb , den Uijl Ingrid , Al-Hadithi Ali BAK , Salvage Samantha C. , Grace Andrew A. , Huang Christopher L.-H. , Jeevaratnam Kamalan
Published: September 2017

Long QT Syndrome 3 (LQTS3) arises from gain-of-function Nav1.5 mutations, prolonging action potential repolarisation and electrocardiographic (ECG) QT interval, associated with increased age-dependent risk for major arrhythmic events, and paradoxical responses to β-adrenergic agents. We investigated for independent and interacting effects of age and Scn5a+/ΔKPQ genotype in anaesthetised mice modelling LQTS3 on ECG phenotypes before and following β-agonist challenge, and upon fibrotic change. Prolonged ventricular recovery was independently associated with Scn5a+/ΔKPQ and age. Ventricular activation was prolonged in old Scn5a+/ΔKPQ mice (p = 0.03). We associated Scn5a+/ΔKPQ with increased atrial and ventricular fibrosis (both: p < 0.001). Ventricles also showed increased fibrosis with age (p < 0.001). Age and Scn5a+/ΔKPQ interacted in increasing incidences of repolarisation alternans (p = 0.02). Dobutamine increased ventricular rate (p < 0.001) and reduced both atrioventricular conduction (PR segment-p = 0.02; PR interval-p = 0.02) and incidences of repolarisation alternans (p < 0.001) in all mice. However, in Scn5a+/ΔKPQ mice, dobutamine delayed the changes in ventricular repolarisation following corresponding increases in ventricular rate. The present findings implicate interactions between age and Scn5a+/ΔKPQ in prolonging ventricular activation, correlating them with fibrotic change for the first time, adding activation abnormalities to established recovery abnormalities in LQTS3. These findings, together with dynamic electrophysiological responses to β-adrenergic challenge, have therapeutic implications for ageing LQTS patients.