bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Calling Out” in Class: Degrees of Candor in Addressing Social Injustices in Racially Homogenous and Heterogeneous U.S. History Classrooms
Authors: Parkhouse Hillary , Massaro Virginia R.
Published: February 2018

Teaching for social justice requires an ability to address sensitive issues such as racism and sexism so that students can gain critical consciousness of these pervasive social realities. However, the empirical literature thus far provides minimal exploration of the factors teachers consider in deciding how to address these issues. This study explores this question through ethnographic case studies of two urban, 11th grade U.S. History classrooms. Differing classroom racial demographics and teacher instructional goals resulted in two distinct pedagogical approaches to social justice teaching. Despite differences in class makeup and teaching approach, students in both classrooms developed intellectual confidence and critical citizenship skills related to their growing sociopolitical awareness.
Advisory Opinion OC-22/16
Authors: Mejía-Lemos Diego
Published: February 2018

On February 26, 2016, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (Court) issued an advisory opinion requested by the Republic of Panama (Advisory Opinion). The request stemmed from “doubts among States” as to whether “legal persons, being legal fictions, are not as such entitled to rights” (Request) (para. 2). The Court unanimously held that legal persons are not entitled to rights under the American Convention on Human Rights (Convention) because Article 1.2 of the Convention establishes rights only in favor of natural persons. The Court, also unanimously, reiterated that indigenous and tribal communities are entitled to rights under the Convention. By majority vote, the Court held that labor union organizations are entitled to rights under the Protocol of San Salvador (Protocol). The Advisory Opinion is most significant for its finding regarding labor union organizations and for its analysis of how general international law relates to various aspects of the Inter-American system.
Laboratory Abnormalities in Polyneuropathy and Electrophysiological Correlations
Authors: Abraham Alon , Breiner Ari , Barnett Carolina , Katzberg Hans D. , Ngo Mylan , Lovblom Leif E. , Perkins Bruce A. , Bril Vera
Published: February 2018

To study the frequency of laboratory test abnormalities, and electrophysiological correlations, we performed a retrospective chart review of 226 patients with polyneuropathy. The frequency of laboratory test abnormalities, and correlations with electrophysiological findings were explored. Abnormal glucose handling tests were the most common findings (54%), followed by paraproteinemia (21%) and anemia (21%). The frequencies of paraproteinemia and anemia in our cohort were significantly higher than previously reported. In addition, several laboratory abnormalities correlated with electrophysiological findings of median neuropathy at the wrist, expanding current knowledge about the deleterious effects of various metabolic and hematologic derangements at this site.
Resisting the Irresistible: ‘Failed Opposition’ in Azerbaijan and Belarus Revisited
Authors: Bedford Sofie , Vinatier Laurent
Published: February 2018

In recent literature on post-Soviet electoral revolutions in places where attempts at regime change through popular protest did not succeed, opposition groups are often simply regarded as ‘failed’. And yet, opposition actors exist and participate in the political life of their country. Building on the Belarusian and Azerbaijani cases, we argue that opposition actors are maintained in a ‘ghetto’, often virtual, tightly managed by the ruling authorities who exert monopolistic control over civic activities. Opposition actors adapt to the restricted conditions – accepting a certain level of dependency. They thus develop various tactics to engage with the outside, striving to reduce the ghetto walls. To this end this article proposes a typology of what we call oppositional ‘resistance models’: electoral, in the media, lobbying and through education. The models highlight what makes ‘opposition’ in authoritarian states and are a step towards a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon in this context.
The Role of an Antimicrobial Stewardship Team in the Use of Rapid Diagnostic Testing in Acute Care: An Official Position Statement of the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists
Authors: Hill Brandon , Narayanan Navaneeth , Palavecino Elizabeth , Perez Katherine K. , Premraj Sasha , Streifel Amber , Wrenn Rebekah H. , Zeitler Kristen
Published: February 2018

Rapid diagnostic technologies can assist Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASPs) in achieving the goals of reducing unnecessary antimicrobial exposure and optimizing patient care. The Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists supports all members of the ASP team as essential components of optimal use of these technologies for management of antibiotic prescribing and cost-reduction strategies.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:473–475
DISPLAYED EQUATIONS FOR GALOIS REPRESENTATIONS
Authors: LAU EIKE
Published: February 2018

The Galois representation associated to a$p$-divisible group over a normal complete noetherian local ring with perfect residue field is described in terms of its Dieudonné display. As a consequence, the Kisin module associated to a commutative finite flat$p$-group scheme via Dieudonné displays is related to its Galois representation in the expected way.
Samuel W. Buell, Capital Offenses: Business Crime and Punishment in America's Corporate Age.
Authors: Balleisen Edward
Published: February 2018

We live in an age of extraordinary corporate power and frequent corporate scandals: malfeasance at American defense contractors, savings and loans, and health-care companies in the 1980s and 1990s; grossly manipulated financial statements at major companies in the 1990s and early 2000s; blatant schemes of tax evasion in the same decades, conjured up by leading law and accounting firms; major safety lapses at Toyota, General Motors, and British Petroleum; rampant bribery of foreign officials by Siemens; and widespread deceptions/manipulations associated with the securitized mortgage markets, emissions standards by automakers such as Volkswagen, the setting of interbank interest rates, and the creation of unauthorized accounts at Wells Fargo.
On a Problem of Fluctuations of Sums of Independent Random Variables
Authors: Takács Lajos
Published: February 2018

The author determines the distribution and the limit distribution of the number of partial sums greater than k (k = 0, 1, 2, …) for n mutually independent and identically distributed discrete random variables taking on the integers 1, 0, − 1, − 2, ….
On a Unified Theory of Estimation in Linear Models—A Review of Recent Results
Authors: Rao C. Radhakrishna
Published: February 2018

The paper deals with two approaches to the estimation of the parameters β and σ2 in the General Gauss-Markoff (GGM) model represented by the triplet (Y, Xß, σ2V), where E(Y)=Xβ and D(Y) =σ2V, when no assumptions are made about the ranks of X and V. One is called Inverse Partition Matrix (IPM) method, which depends on the numerical evaluation of the g-inverse of a partitioned matrix. The second is an analogue of least squares theory applicable even when V is singular, unlike Atiken's method which is applicable only for non-singular V, and is called Unified Least Square (ULS) method.
Quaternions, Haar Measure and the Estimation of a Palaeomagnetic Rotation
Authors: Moran P. A. P.
Published: February 2018

Representing a rotation in three dimensions by a unit tensor quaternion and supposing that the errors in the measurements of a number of vector directions follow Fisher's distribution, the maximum likelihood estimator of a rotation is obtained. It is shown that the natural Haar measure for three-dimensional rotations is mapped 1:2 onto the natural Haar measure for random directions in 4-space. The natural Haar measure for rotations in 4-space is also mappable onto the product measure of the Haar measures for two separate random directions in 4-space.
Stochastic Models for Type Counts in a Literary Text
Authors: Gani J.
Published: February 2018

This paper studies a Markov chain model for type counts {Xn} in a literary text. First, a homogeneous Markov chain in discrete time is considered. This is then embedded in a continuous time Poisson process; the probability generating function for the resulting continuous time Markov chain is obtained. Expectations and variances of type counts are found for different values of the token count and various sizes M of an author's vocabulary; these results are finally tested against known data for three of Shakespeare's plays.
The Use of the Cross-Ratio in Aetiological Surveys
Authors: Armitage P.
Published: February 2018

The use of the cross-ratio as a measure of association in a 2×2 table is closely related to Bartlett's (1935) definition of interaction in a higher-order table. Inference about aetiological associations from case-control studies is most naturally done in terms of the cross-ratio, as a measure of relative risk. Standard methods of statistical analysis, for the comparison and combination of relative risks and for matched pairs, are reviewed, and some new results noted.
Omphalodiella Patagonica, A New Peltate Lichen Genus And Species From South America
Authors: Henssen Aino
Published: February 2018

Omphalodiella patagonica Henssen gen. et sp. nov. is described from two Patagonian localities in Argentina. In habit the new lichen resembles some species of Acarospora in having brown, peltate thalli less than 3 mm wide with immersed apothecia. The ontogeny and structure of the apothecia and pycnidia correspond, however, to genera of the Parmeliaceae. The apothecia are provided with a meristematic, cupular exciple, and the amyloid asci contain 8 or less, ± globose spores. The short-celled conidiophores produce rod-shaped conidia of bayonet type. The thallus is provided with a narrow paraplectenchymatic upper and a broad prosoplectenchymatic, strongly gelatinized lower cortex. The thallus contains gyrophoric acid; the cortex contains ‘glomellifera brown ’.
Augustine on the beatific vision as ubique totus
Authors: Boersma Gerald P.
Published: February 2018

A constant in Augustine's long literary career is his understanding of God's presence as ubique totus, or ‘whole and everywhere’. I will first consider how Augustine came to perceive of the divine presence in this life (here I will look especially at the Confessions); second, how he theologically articulates the nature of the divine presence (here I will draw on Ep. 187), and, finally, how he understands the divine presence in the life to come (and here I will focus on the conclusion of the City of God). I suggest that a fundamental continuity obtains between how Augustine understands seeing God in this life and the next and that this continuity is predicated on his conception of the divine presence as ubique totus.
The work of the British School at Athens, 2016–2017
Authors: Bennet John
Published: February 2018

The relevance in the 21st century of an organization founded in the later 19th century lies in the BSA's statutory objective: ‘to promote the study of Greece in all its aspects … in all periods including modern times’. In modern business jargon, the BSA's ‘unique selling proposition’ is its location, which places UK-based researchers (at all career stages) at the heart of a region not only central to the history of the Western tradition, but also pivotal historically to post-Ottoman southern Europe and currently on the front line of the refugee crisis. Its location also offers local researchers and organizations opportunities to establish collaborations with us and – through us – with UK-based researchers. Our 130-year history brings a strong reputation, an unparalleled regional network, an accumulation of library and material resources, and a body of expertise that benefit both UK-based researchers and those who engage with us as research partners.
Cave heritage in Greece: Aetoloakarnania
Authors: Katsarou Stella , Darlas Andreas
Published: February 2018

The Ephorate of Palaeoanthropology and Spelaeology (EPS) is the state-run body responsible for the range of issues revolving around the legal protection, management, development and interdisciplinary study of caves in Greece (http://www.culture.gr/el/ministry/SitePages/viewyphresia.aspx?iID=1784). It is housed in the Ministry of Culture and Sports and is the sole institution taking an integrated overview of the issues surrounding caves in Greece. Its position within the cultural-heritage domain derives from caves being fully ascribed the status of ancient monuments and thus subject to the protective provisions of the archaeological law (3028/2002), alongside and independent of their status and need for protection as sustainable natural landforms. Once caves were recognized as sites requiring specialized archaeological research with distinct administrative requirements, the Ephorate of Speleology was established as a special office within the Ministry of Culture in 1976; it was comparable in status, at a later stage, to the local ephorates of antiquities, but as an entity constituted at the national rather than the district level. Its supra-regional scope was reformulated by legislation in 2014 reuniting into one institution the two components (northern and southern Greece) into which it had been separated a decade previously.
Recent research at the Sanctuary of Artemis Amarysia in Amarynthos (Euboea)
Authors: Fachard Sylvian , Knoepfler Denis , Reber Karl , Karapaschalidou Amalia , Krapf Tobias , Theurillat Thierry , Kalamara Pari
Published: February 2018

The Sanctuary of Artemis Amarysia in Amarynthos was the most renowned shrine of the Eretrian polis, and its annual festival, the Artemisia, drew large crowds from Euboea and beyond. Yet, despite its regional fame and prominence, its remains have eluded archaeological identification. As a result, the location of the Artemision has been a vexed question in Euboean studies for over a century. Between 2003 and 2007, however, a new impetus was given to its localization. In collaboration with the Ephorate of Antiquities of Euboea, the Swiss School of Archaeology in Greece (ESAG) carried out a large-scale geophysical survey in the area of Amarynthos, some 11km east of Eretria, at the foot of a hill locally known as Paleoekklisies (or Paleochora). The ensuing trial trenches were followed by systematic excavation that eventually led to the discovery of substantial buildings. We suggest that these buildings are part of a monumental complex that should be identified as the Sanctuary of Artemis Amarysia (see afterword).
Inter and intraspecific comparisons of the skeletal Mg/Ca ratios of high latitude Antarctic echinoderms
Authors: Duquette A. , Halanych K.M. , Angus R.A. , Mcclintock J.B.
Published: February 2018

Echinoderms are vulnerable to ocean acidification because of their high magnesium calcite skeletons. Here, skeletal Mg/Ca ratios were examined within and between individuals of 20 Antarctic echinoderms representative of the asteroids, ophiuroids and echinoids. The highest mean Mg/Ca ratios occurred in the discs and arms (0.111 and 0.110, respectively) of brittle-stars and the lowest in the spines (0.010) of cidaroid sea urchins. Many taxa (11 of 14 species) from the collection sites showed no intraspecific differences in Mg/Ca ratios between given skeletal components. Exceptions were the spines of two regular sea urchins and the skeletal ossicles of the combined arms and disc of a brittle-star. The relationship between skeletal magnesium content and latitude was further evaluated and an inverse correlation was found between Antarctic echinoderm taxa skeletal magnesium content and latitude across 62° to 76°, indicating that the relationship occurs over relatively narrow latitudes. Upon examination of an even narrower range (70–76° latitude), a region where the mineralogy of echinoderm skeletons has not been investigated, the predicted inverse relationship between Mg/Ca ratio and latitude was still observed in sea-stars, but not in brittle-stars or sea urchins.
Paediatric abstract publication rates for the American Society of Echocardiography Meeting
Authors: Morrison Adam , Kelly John , Rivera Brian , Backes Carl H. , Cua Clifford L.
Published: February 2018

Background

Abstract presentations of scientific information at meetings are important for broadcasting new information. Publication of these studies should be the final goal, but minimal data exist documenting publication rates, especially for paediatric sub-speciality meetings. The goal of this study was to document the manuscript publication rate for paediatric cardiac echocardiography abstracts and to determine whether there were differences between abstracts that were published versus not published.

Methods

Paediatric cardiac echocardiography abstracts presented from 2007 to 2011 at the American Society of Echocardiography Meetings were reviewed. Characteristics of the abstracts were noted. A Medline/Pubmed search was performed using keywords, first author, and senior author criteria to determine publication. Fisher’s exact tests or χ2 tests were used for analysis.

Results

A total of 194 abstracts were reviewed. In all, 27 abstracts were oral presentations and 167 were poster presentations. A total of 124 abstracts were prospective studies and 70 were retrospective studies; 11 abstracts were basic science studies and 183 were clinical studies. Altogether, 25 abstracts dealt with three-dimensional echocardiography, 15 with fetal echocardiography, 56 with deformation analysis, 79 with standard transthoracic echocardiography, and 19 were in the other category. A total of 73 abstracts were subsequently published – with a 37.6% publication rate – 2.1±1.7 years after initial presentation. There were no significant differences in publication rates based on the above-noted variables.

Conclusion

A paediatric cardiac echocardiography abstract publication rate of 37.6% is comparable to previous published publication rates for other meetings. No differences in variables analysed were noted between published versus unpublished abstracts.
Externalities and foreign capital in aquaculture production in developing countries
Authors: Akpalu Wisdom , Bitew Worku T.
Published: February 2018

Most developing countries are increasingly depending on freshwater based aquaculture to supplement the declining catch from capture fisheries. Yet the competition between capture fisheries and cage culture for space, pollution generated by cage culture, and fish markets interaction effects are hardly conceptualized in a bioeconomic framework. Furthermore, the economic viability of cage culture depends on substantial investment thresholds, engendering foreign direct investment in the industry in developing countries. This paper develops a conceptual model for fresh-water-based aquaculture that accounts for these effects. We found that a Pigouvian tax (optimum ad valorem tax) that corrects the externalities depends on economic and biological parameters in both fisheries. Correcting for the externalities results in a reduction in aquaculture production but not optimum wild catch. Furthermore, with foreign capital in aquaculture, the Pigouvian tax equals the ratio of net to total benefit from aquaculture. Numerical values are used to illustrate the results.
From Japanese tradition towards new subjectivity in the architecture of Kengo Kuma and Toyo Ito
Authors: Fridh Kristina
Published: February 2018

The Japanese architects Kengo Kuma and Toyo Ito work with the formation of mental processes, which include spatial perceptions, but also haptic experiences. In this regard, they both connect to the Japanese architectural tradition. Therefore, it is interesting to compare their work, especially since visually the architecture of these two architects differs. However, through staged, unexpected and changeable experiences of materiality and spatial organisation – interacting in dynamic flow with the surroundings – similar mental processes are evoked when conceiving and perceiving their architecture that are an integral part of the ongoing processes to transform their architecture into ‘abstractions’. The point of departure for being involved in these similar, processual stage-settings is the creation of uncompleted experiences of wonder; a void, which is recognised from the traditional Japanese expressions for beauty – shibui and yugen – and described by Soetsu Yanagi as a hidden, subjective beauty. This in turn leads to a new subjectivity in connection with traditional Japanese conceptions of space, where space is a subjective perception and a changeable process in the mind of the beholder, and not an outside object. The references to the architectural tradition include the villa and the garden of Katsura and the architect Kazuo Shinohara, who opposed and criticised Western Modernism with the basis in his own Japanese tradition.
Representing Korean architecture in the modern West: two Korean Pavilions from 1960s international expositions
Authors: Kim Hyon-Sob
Published: February 2018

The Korean Pavilions for the 1964 New York World's Fair and the 1967 Montreal International Exposition were designed by Chung-Up Kim (1922-88) and Swoo-Geun Kim (1931-86) respectively, two pioneers of modern architecture in Korea. Both pavilions’ designs raise a widespread architectural question about the modern representation of tradition. In contrast to earlier pavilions in Chicago (1893) and Paris (1900) that replicated poorly supposedly ‘authentic’ Korean architecture, these 1960s entries modernised traditional architecture from their architect's creative viewpoint. While Chung-Up Kim noted the formal qualities of the Korean sloped roof, especially its curvilinearity, Swoo-Geun Kim emphasised the traditional timber structure underneath the roof, exaggerating its horizontal layers. In other words, the former's pavilion was more expressive and sculptural, which reflected the architect's Corbusian and even Aaltoesque tendencies. Conversely, the latter pavilion was more logical and systematic. However, Swoo-Geun Kim's interpretation of tradition was also ultimately about the form, though he soon became more interested in space. With regard to the form, the two Kims shared the fundamental idea that the past must not be imitated as it was, but re-created in a modern sense. This underlying argument is reflected in the contemporary ‘debate on tradition’ ignited by the design competition for the National Museum of Korea in 1966. It also relates to to the ‘Japanese-Style Scandal’ of 1967 in which Swoo-Geun Kim suffered for his design of the Buyeo National Museum, 1965-68, due to the inclusion of Japanese nuances in the design of the Montreal Pavilion. Swoo-Geun Kim's later high-tech style pavilion for the 1970 Osaka Expo, alongside recent projects by Minsuk Cho in Yeosu (2010) and Venice (2014) has more recently suggested alternative ways to represent Korea in architecture. Therefore, these two pavilions from the 1960s can be understood as unique inflection points in Korean architectural history.
Encounters with Socrates: architecture, dialogue, and gesture in the Athenian Agora
Authors: Martin-McAuliffe Samantha L.
Published: February 2018

Analyses of Platonic dialogues nearly always acknowledge the location of a given conversation. Modern scholarship, however, rarely ventures beyond supplying a passing reference to the setting of a dialogue. This is not surprising given that Plato – and anyone who wished to emulate him – was chiefly concerned with providing philosophical discourses, not architectural treatises. However, this analysis argues that in several dialectical encounters and conversations architecture is much more than a generic, mute background. By deliberately situating Socrates and his companions in and around significant buildings in the Athenian Agora, Plato and his imitators offer us important clues to how the Greeks perceived and understood their civic realm. Ultimately, this investigation shows, for the first time, how speech and its attendant gestures were instrumental to the urban order of the ancient city.
Concept and realization of a low-cost multi-target simulator for CW and FMCW radar system calibration and testing
Authors: Scheiblhofer Werner , Feger Reinhard , Haderer Andreas , Stelzer Andreas
Published: February 2018

We present the realization of an frequency-modulated continuous-wave radar target simulator, based on a modulated-reflector radar system. The simulator, designed for the 24 GHz frequency band, uses low-cost modulated-reflector nodes and is capable to simultaneously generate multiple targets in a real-time environment. The realization is based on a modular approach and thus provides a high scalability of the whole system. It is demonstrated that the concept is able to simulate multiple artificial targets, located at user-selectable ranges and even velocities, utilized within a completely static setup. The characterization of the developed hardware shows that the proposed concept allows to dynamically and precisely adjust the radar cross-section of each single target within a dynamic range of 50 dB. Additionally, the provided range-proportional target frequency bandwidth makes the system perfectly suitable for fast and reliable intermediate frequency-chain calibration of multi-channel radar systems. Within this paper we demonstrate the application of the concept for a linear sweeped frequency-modulated continuous-wave radar. The presented approach is applicable to any microwave-based measurement system using frequency differences between transmit- and receive signals for range- and velocity evaluation, such as (non-)linear sweeped as well as pure Doppler radar systems.
Transparent and miniature FM antenna in printed technology
Authors: Martin A. , Gautier C. , Castel X. , Himdi M.
Published: February 2018

An optically transparent and electrically small frequency modulation (FM) radio receiving antenna has been designed and fabricated from a mesh silver layer printed onto a glass substrate. The studied FM antenna consists of a transparent meandering monopole associated with a micrometric size MEtal Semiconductor Field Effect transistor. An optical transparency of 87% and a sheet resistance lower than 0.22 Ω/sq are obtained. The received signal strength indicator and the signal-to-noise ratio are both measured and compared with those of a commercial monopole antenna (a quarter-wave wire antenna). The transparent FM antenna exhibits similar radiofrequency performance with, in addition, a low visual impact.
Telomere length and genetics are independent colorectal tumour risk factors in an evaluation of biomarkers in normal bowel
Authors: Fernandez-Rozadilla Ceres , Kartsonaki Christiana , Woolley Connor , McClellan Michael , Whittington Deb , Horgan Gareth , Leedham Simon , Kriaucionis Skirmantas , East James , Tomlinson Ian
Published: February 2018

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening might be improved by using a measure of prior risk to modulate screening intensity or the faecal immunochemical test threshold. Intermediate molecular biomarkers could aid risk prediction by capturing both known and unknown risk factors.

Methods:

We sampled normal bowel mucosa from the proximal colon, distal colon and rectum of 317 individuals undergoing colonoscopy. We defined cases as having a personal history of colorectal polyp(s)/cancer, and controls as having no history of colorectal neoplasia. Molecular analyses were performed for: telomere length (TL); global methylation; and the expression of genes in molecular pathways associated with colorectal tumourigenesis. We also calculated a polygenic risk score (PRS) based on CRC susceptibility polymorphisms.

Results:

Bowel TL was significantly longer in cases than controls, but was not associated with blood TL. PRS was significantly and independently higher in cases. Hypermethylation showed a suggestive association with case:control status. No gene or pathway was differentially expressed between cases and controls. Gene expression often varied considerably between bowel locations.

Conclusions:

PRS and bowel TL (but not blood TL) may be clinically-useful predictors of CRC risk. Sample collection to assess these biomarkers is feasible in clinical practice, especially where population screening uses flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.
Systematic generation of biophysically detailed models for diverse cortical neuron types
Authors: Gouwens Nathan W. , Berg Jim , Feng David , Sorensen Staci A. , Zeng Hongkui , Hawrylycz Michael J. , Koch Christof , Arkhipov Anton
Published: February 2018

The cellular components of mammalian neocortical circuits are diverse, and capturing this diversity in computational models is challenging. Here we report an approach for generating biophysically detailed models of 170 individual neurons in the Allen Cell Types Database to link the systematic experimental characterization of cell types to the construction of cortical models. We build models from 3D morphologies and somatic electrophysiological responses measured in the same cells. Densities of active somatic conductances and additional parameters are optimized with a genetic algorithm to match electrophysiological features. We evaluate the models by applying additional stimuli and comparing model responses to experimental data. Applying this technique across a diverse set of neurons from adult mouse primary visual cortex, we verify that models preserve the distinctiveness of intrinsic properties between subsets of cells observed in experiments. The optimized models are accessible online alongside the experimental data. Code for optimization and simulation is also openly distributed.
Ultrafast quantum control of ionization dynamics in krypton
Authors: Hütten Konrad , Mittermair Michael , Stock Sebastian O. , Beerwerth Randolf , Shirvanyan Vahe , Riemensberger Johann , Duensing Andreas , Heider Rupert , Wagner Martin S. , Guggenmos Alexander , Fritzsche Stephan , Kabachnik Nikolay M. , Kienberger Reinhard , Bernhardt Birgitta
Published: February 2018

Ultrafast spectroscopy with attosecond resolution has enabled the real time observation of ultrafast electron dynamics in atoms, molecules and solids. These experiments employ attosecond pulses or pulse trains and explore dynamical processes in a pump–probe scheme that is selectively sensitive to electronic state of matter via photoelectron or XUV absorption spectroscopy or that includes changes of the ionic state detected via photo-ion mass spectrometry. Here, we demonstrate how the implementation of combined photo-ion and absorption spectroscopy with attosecond resolution enables tracking the complex multidimensional excitation and decay cascade of an Auger auto-ionization process of a few femtoseconds in highly excited krypton. In tandem with theory, our study reveals the role of intermediate electronic states in the formation of multiply charged ions. Amplitude tuning of a dressing laser field addresses different groups of decay channels and allows exerting temporal and quantitative control over the ionization dynamics in rare gas atoms.
An unusual type of polymorphism in a liquid crystal
Authors: Li Lin , Salamończyk Mirosław , Shadpour Sasan , Zhu Chenhui , Jákli Antal , Hegmann Torsten
Published: February 2018

Polymorphism is a remarkable concept in chemistry, materials science, computer science, and biology. Whether it is the ability of a material to exist in two or more crystal structures, a single interface connecting to two different entities, or alternative phenotypes of an organism, polymorphism determines function and properties. In materials science, polymorphism can be found in an impressively wide range of materials, including crystalline materials, minerals, metals, alloys, and polymers. Here we report on polymorphism in a liquid crystal. A bent-core liquid crystal with a single chiral side chain forms two structurally and morphologically significantly different liquid crystal phases solely depending on the cooling rate from the isotropic liquid state. On slow cooling, the thermodynamically more stable oblique columnar phase forms, and on rapid cooling, a not heretofore reported helical microfilament phase. Since structure determines function and properties, the structural color for these phases also differs.
Longitudinal association of type 1 interferon-induced chemokines with disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Connelly K. L. , Kandane-Rathnayake R. , Huq M. , Hoi A. , Nikpour M. , Morand E. F.
Published: February 2018

Type I interferon (IFN) pathways are significant in SLE pathogenesis. Less is known about the utility of measuring markers of IFN activity in patients, or whether patient subsets with different profiles exist. We explored the longitudinal associations of IFN-induced chemokines with disease activity in a cohort of SLE patients. We calculated a validated composite score (IFN-CK) of three type I IFN-inducible chemokines (CCL2/CXCL10/CCL19) measured in 109 SLE patients (median 7 occasions over 3.2 years). Longitudinal associations of IFN-CK score with disease activity (SLEDAI-2K) and other variables were assessed using general estimating equation (GEE) methods. IFN-CK was detectable in all patients. SLEDAI-2K was significantly associated with IFN-CK, damage score and prednisolone dose. SLEDAI-2K remained significantly associated with IFN-CK over time after adjustment of covariates. Patients with high time-adjusted mean IFN-CK had lower complement and higher time-adjusted disease activity. Concordance between IFN-CK and SLEDAI-2K varied widely among patients, with some individuals having none, others weak, and a subset very high concordance. In summary in our cohort of SLE patients, serum IFN-CK varied over time with disease activity, but with wide variation in concordance. Differing relationships between IFN pathway activation and disease activity may be valuable in assigning patients to emerging IFN-pathway targeting treatments.
Homogenization and impoverishment of taxonomic and functional diversity of ants in Eucalyptus plantations
Authors: Martello Felipe , de Bello Francesco , Morini Maria Santina de Castro , Silva Rogério R. , Souza-Campana Débora Rodriges de , Ribeiro Milton Cezar , Carmona Carlos P.
Published: February 2018

Despite its negative impacts on the environment and biodiversity, tree plantations can contribute to biodiversity conservation in fragmented landscapes, as they harbor many native species. In this study, we investigated the impact of Eucalyptus plantations on the taxonomic and functional diversity of ant communities, comparing ant communities sampled in managed and unmanaged (abandoned for 28 years) Eucalyptus plantations, and native Atlantic rain forests. Eucalyptus plantations, both managed and unmanaged, reduced the functional diversity and increased the similarity between ant communities leading to functional homogenization. While communities in managed plantations had the lowest values of both taxonomic and functional ant diversities, ant communities from unmanaged plantations had similar values of species richness, functional redundancy and Rao’s Q compared to ant communities from forest patches (although functional richness was lower). In addition, communities in unmanaged Eucalyptus plantations were taxonomically and functionally more similar to communities located in managed plantations, indicating that Eucalyptus plantations have a severe long-term impact on ant communities. These results indicate that natural regeneration may mitigate the impact of Eucalyptus management, particularly regarding the functional structure of the community (α diversity), although it does not attenuate the effects of long term homogenization in community composition (β diversity).
Antibodies in children with malaria to PfEMP1, RIFIN and SURFIN expressed at the Plasmodium falciparum parasitized red blood cell surface
Authors: Quintana Maria del Pilar , Ch’ng Jun-Hong , Moll Kirsten , Zandian Arash , Nilsson Peter , Idris Zulkarnain Md , Saiwaew Somporn , Qundos Ulrika , Wahlgren Mats
Published: February 2018

Naturally acquired antibodies to proteins expressed on the Plasmodium falciparum parasitized red blood cell (pRBC) surface steer the course of a malaria infection by reducing sequestration and stimulating phagocytosis of pRBC. Here we have studied a selection of proteins representing three different parasite gene families employing a well-characterized parasite with a severe malaria phenotype (FCR3S1.2). The presence of naturally acquired antibodies, impact on rosetting rate, surface reactivity and opsonization for phagocytosis in relation to different blood groups of the ABO system were assessed in a set of sera from children with mild or complicated malaria from an endemic area. We show that the naturally acquired immune responses, developed during malaria natural infection, have limited access to the pRBCs inside a blood group A rosette. The data also indicate that SURFIN4.2 may have a function at the pRBC surface, particularly during rosette formation, this role however needs to be further validated. Our results also indicate epitopes differentially recognized by rosette-disrupting antibodies on a peptide array. Antibodies towards parasite-derived proteins such as PfEMP1, RIFIN and SURFIN in combination with host factors, essentially the ABO blood group of a malaria patient, are suggested to determine the outcome of a malaria infection.
Characterization of viral RNA splicing using whole-transcriptome datasets from host species
Authors: Zhou Chengran , Liu Shanlin , Song Wenhui , Luo Shiqi , Meng Guanliang , Yang Chentao , Yang Hua , Ma Jinmin , Wang Liang , Gao Shan , Wang Jian , Yang Huanming , Zhao Yun , Wang Hui , Zhou Xin
Published: February 2018

RNA alternative splicing (AS) is an important post-transcriptional mechanism enabling single genes to produce multiple proteins. It has been well demonstrated that viruses deploy host AS machinery for viral protein productions. However, knowledge on viral AS is limited to a few disease-causing viruses in model species. Here we report a novel approach to characterizing viral AS using whole transcriptome dataset from host species. Two insect transcriptomes (Acheta domesticus and Planococcus citri) generated in the 1,000 Insect Transcriptome Evolution (1KITE) project were used as a proof of concept using the new pipeline. Two closely related densoviruses (Acheta domesticus densovirus, AdDNV, and Planococcus citri densovirus, PcDNV, Ambidensovirus, Densovirinae, Parvoviridae) were detected and analyzed for AS patterns. The results suggested that although the two viruses shared major AS features, dramatic AS divergences were observed. Detailed analysis of the splicing junctions showed clusters of AS events occurred in two regions of the virus genome, demonstrating that transcriptome analysis could gain valuable insights into viral splicing. When applied to large-scale transcriptomics projects with diverse taxonomic sampling, our new method is expected to rapidly expand our knowledge on RNA splicing mechanisms for a wide range of viruses.
Maturation State and Matrix Microstructure Regulate Interstitial Cell Migration in Dense Connective Tissues
Authors: Qu Feini , Li Qing , Wang Xiao , Cao Xuan , Zgonis Miltiadis H. , Esterhai John L. , Shenoy Vivek B. , Han Lin , Mauck Robert L.
Published: February 2018

Few regenerative approaches exist for the treatment of injuries to adult dense connective tissues. Compared to fetal tissues, adult connective tissues are hypocellular and show limited healing after injury. We hypothesized that robust repair can occur in fetal tissues with an immature extracellular matrix (ECM) that is conducive to cell migration, and that this process fails in adults due to the biophysical barriers imposed by the mature ECM. Using the knee meniscus as a platform, we evaluated the evolving micromechanics and microstructure of fetal and adult tissues, and interrogated the interstitial migratory capacity of adult meniscal cells through fetal and adult tissue microenvironments with or without partial enzymatic digestion. To integrate our findings, a computational model was implemented to determine how changing biophysical parameters impact cell migration through these dense networks. Our results show that the micromechanics and microstructure of the adult meniscus ECM sterically hinder cell mobility, and that modulation of these ECM attributes via an exogenous matrix-degrading enzyme permits migration through this otherwise impenetrable network. By addressing the inherent limitations to repair imposed by the mature ECM, these studies may define new clinical strategies to promote repair of damaged dense connective tissues in adults.
Tuning Infrared Plasmon Resonance of Black Phosphorene Nanoribbon with a Dielectric Interface
Authors: Debu Desalegn T. , Bauman Stephen J. , French David , Churchill Hugh O. H. , Herzog Joseph B.
Published: February 2018

We report on the tunable edge-plasmon-enhanced absorption of phosphorene nanoribbons supported on a dielectric substrate. Monolayer anisotropic black phosphorous (phosphorene) nanoribbons are explored for light trapping and absorption enhancement on different dielectric substrates. We show that these phosphorene ribbons support infrared surface plasmons with high spatial confinement. The peak position and bandwidth of the calculated phosphorene absorption spectra are tunable with low loss over a wide wavelength range via the surrounding dielectric environment of the periodic nanoribbons. Simulation results show strong edge plasmon modes and enhanced absorption as well as a red-shift of the peak resonance wavelength. The periodic Fabry-Perot grating model was used to analytically evaluate the absorption resonance arising from the edge of the ribbons for comparison with the simulation. The results show promise for the promotion of phosphorene plasmons for both fundamental studies and potential applications in the infrared spectral range.
Background matching in the brown shrimp Crangon crangon: adaptive camouflage and behavioural-plasticity
Authors: Siegenthaler Andjin , Mastin Alexander , Dufaut Clément , Mondal Debapriya , Benvenuto Chiara
Published: February 2018

A combination of burrowing behaviour and very efficient background matching makes the brown shrimp Crangon crangon almost invisible to potential predators and prey. This raises questions on how shrimp succeed in concealing themselves in the heterogeneous and dynamic estuarine habitats they inhabit and what type of environmental variables and behavioural factors affect their colour change abilities. Using a series of behavioural experiments, we show that the brown shrimp is capable of repeated fast colour adaptations (20% change in dark pigment cover within one hour) and that its background matching ability is mainly influenced by illumination and sediment colour. Novel insights are provided on the occurrence of non-adaptive (possibly stress) responses to background changes after long-time exposure to a constant background colour or during unfavourable conditions for burying. Shrimp showed high levels of intra- and inter-individual variation, demonstrating a complex balance between behavioural-plasticity and environmental adaptation. As such, the study of crustacean colour changes represents a valuable opportunity to investigate colour adaptations in dynamic habitats and can help us to identify the mayor environmental and behavioural factors influencing the evolution of animal background matching.
Epistasis between FLG and IL4R Genes on the Risk of Allergic Sensitization: Results from Two Population-Based Birth Cohort Studies
Authors: Ziyab Ali H. , Hankinson Jenny , Ewart Susan , Schauberger Eric , Kopec-Harding Kamilla , Zhang Hongmei , Custovic Adnan , Arshad Hasan , Simpson Angela , Karmaus Wilfried J.
Published: February 2018

Immune-specific genes as well as genes responsible for the formation and integrity of the epidermal barrier have been implicated in the pathogeneses of allergic sensitization. This study sought to determine whether an epistatic effect (gene-gene interaction) between genetic variants within interleukin 4 receptor (IL4R) and filaggrin (FLG) genes predispose to the development of allergic sensitization. Data from two birth cohort studies were analyzed, namely the Isle of Wight (IOW; n = 1,456) and the Manchester Asthma and Allergy Study (MAAS; n = 1,058). In the IOW study, one interaction term (IL4Rrs3024676 × FLGvariants) showed statistical significance (interaction term:P = 0.003). To illustrate the observed epistasis, stratified analyses were performed, which showed thatFLGvariants were associated with allergic sensitization only amongIL4Rrs3024676 homozygotes (OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.27–3.05;P = 0.003). In contrast,FLGvariants effect was masked amongIL4Rrs3024676 heterozygotes (OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.22–1.32;P = 0.175). Similar results were demonstrated in the MAAS study. Epistasis between immune (IL4R) and skin (FLG) regulatory genes exist in the pathogenesis of allergic sensitization. Hence, genetic susceptibility towards defective epidermal barrier and deviated immune responses could work together in the development of allergic sensitization.
Impact of aromatase absence on murine intraocular pressure and retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Chen Xiaomin , Liu Yang , Zhang Yi , Kam Wendy R. , Pasquale Louis R. , Sullivan David A.
Published: February 2018

We hypothesize that aromatase, an enzyme that regulates estrogen production, plays a significant role in the control of intraocular pressure (IOP) and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). To begin to test our hypothesis, we examined the impact of aromatase absence, which completely eliminates estrogen synthesis, in male and female mice. Studies were performed with adult, age-matched wild type (WT) and aromatase knockout (ArKO) mice. IOP was measured in a masked fashion in both eyes of conscious mice at 12 and 24 weeks of age. Retinas were obtained and processed for RGC counting with a confocal microscope. IOP levels in both 12- and 24-week old female ArKO mice were significantly higher than those of age- and sex-matched WT controls. The mean increase in IOP was 7.9% in the 12-week-, and 19.7% in the 24-week-old mice, respectively. These changes were accompanied by significant 9% and 7% decreases in RGC numbers in the ArKO female mice, relative to controls, at 12- and 24-weeks, respectively. In contrast, aromatase deficiency did not lead to an increased IOP in male mice. There was a significant reduction in RGC counts in the 12-, but not 24-, week-old male ArKO mice, as compared to their age- and sex-matched WT controls. Overall, our findings show that aromatase inhibition in females is associated with elevated IOP and reduced RGC counts.
c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 defective CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ cells prolong islet allograft survival in diabetic mice
Authors: Tripathi Deepak , Cheekatla Satyanarayana S. , Paidipally Padmaja , Radhakrishnan Rajesh Kumar , Welch Elwyn , Thandi Ramya Sivangala , Tvinnereim Amy R. , Vankayalapati Ramakrishna
Published: February 2018

CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ cells (Tregs) inhibit inflammatory immune responses to allografts. Here, we found that co-transplantation of allogeneic pancreatic islets with Tregs that are defective in c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1) signaling prolongs islet allograft survival in the liver parenchyma of chemically induced diabetic mice (CDM). Adoptively transferred JNK1−/− but not wild-type (WT) Tregs survive longer in the liver parenchyma of CDM. JNK1−/− Tregs are resistant to apoptosis and express anti-apoptotic molecules. JNK1−/− Tregs express higher levels of lymphocyte activation gene-3 molecule (LAG-3) on their surface and produce higher amounts of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 compared with WT Tregs. JNK1−/− Tregs inhibit liver alloimmune responses more efficiently than WT Tregs. JNK1−/− but not WT Tregs are able to inhibit IL-17 and IL-21 production through enhanced LAG-3 expression and IL-10 production. Our study identifies a novel role of JNK1 signaling in Tregs that enhances islet allograft survival in the liver parenchyma of CDM.