bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous readout of 128 X-ray and gamma-ray transition-edge microcalorimeters using microwave SQUID multiplexing
Authors: Mates J. A. B. , Becker D. T. , Bennett D. A. , Dober B. J. , Gard J. D. , Hays-Wehle J. P. , Fowler J. W. , Hilton G. C. , Reintsema C. D. , Schmidt D. R. , Swetz D. S. , Vale L. R. , Ullom J. N.
Published: August 2017

The number of elements in most cryogenic sensor arrays is limited by the technology available to multiplex signals from the arrays into a smaller number of wires and readout amplifiers. The largest demonstrated arrays of transition-edge sensor (TES) microcalorimeters contain roughly 250 detectors and use time-division multiplexing with Superconducting Quantum Interference Devices (SQUIDs). The bandwidth limits of this technology constrain the number of sensors per amplifier chain, a quantity known as the multiplexing factor, to several 10s. With microwave SQUID multiplexing, we can expand the readout bandwidth and enable much larger multiplexing factors. While microwave SQUID multiplexing of TES microcalorimeters has been previously demonstrated with small numbers of detectors, we now present a fully scalable demonstration in which 128 TES detectors are read out on a single pair of coaxial cables.
Enhanced thermal stability and mechanical properties of nitrogen deficient titanium aluminum nitride (Ti0.54Al0.46Ny) thin films by tuning the applied negative bias voltage
Authors: Calamba K. M. , Schramm I. C. , Johansson Jõesaar M. P. , Ghanbaja J. , Pierson J. F. , Mücklich F. , Odén M.
Published: August 2017

Aspects on the phase stability and mechanical properties of nitrogen deficient (Ti0.54Al0.46)Ny alloys were investigated. Solid solution alloys of (Ti,Al)N were grown by cathodic arc deposition. The kinetic energy of the impinging ions was altered by varying the substrate bias voltage from −30 V to −80 V. Films deposited with a high bias value of −80 V showed larger lattice parameter, finer columnar structure, and higher compressive residual stress resulting in higher hardness than films biased at −30 V when comparing their as-deposited states. At elevated temperatures, the presence of nitrogen vacancies and point defects (anti-sites and self-interstitials generated by the ion-bombardment during coating deposition) in (Ti0.54Al0.46)N0.87 influence the driving force for phase separation. Highly biased nitrogen deficient films have point defects with higher stability during annealing, which cause a delay of the release of the stored lattice strain energy and then accelerates the decomposition tendencies to thermodynamically stable c-TiN and w-AlN. Low biased nitrogen deficient films have retarded phase transformation to w-AlN, which results in the prolongment of age hardening effect up to 1100 °C, i.e., the highest reported temperature for Ti-Al-N material system. Our study points out the role of vacancies and point defects in engineering thin films with enhanced thermal stability and mechanical properties for high temperature hard coating applications.
Thermoelectric and thermospin properties in a quantum ring with an embedded protein-like single-helical molecule
Authors: Wang Xiao , Yang Yang , Wu Hai-Na , Gong Wei-Jiang
Published: August 2017

We investigate the thermoelectric and thermospin effects in a quantum ring whose arms are embedded by one protein-like single-helical molecule and one quantum dot, respectively. It shows that both the thermoelectric and thermospin effects are very distinct in this system. If one local magnetic flux is introduced through this ring, the thermospin effect can be efficiently enhanced, accompanied by the weakness of thermoelectric effect. Therefore, this work can be helpful for the achievement of the thermoelectric and thermospin effects, respectively.
Effect of oxygen plasma on nanomechanical silicon nitride resonators
Authors: Luhmann Niklas , Jachimowicz Artur , Schalko Johannes , Sadeghi Pedram , Sauer Markus , Foelske-Schmitz Annette , Schmid Silvan
Published: August 2017

Precise control of tensile stress and intrinsic damping is crucial for the optimal design of nanomechanical systems for sensor applications and quantum optomechanics in particular. In this letter, we study the influence of oxygen plasma on the tensile stress and intrinsic damping of nanomechanical silicon nitride resonators. Oxygen plasma treatments are common steps in micro and nanofabrication. We show that oxygen plasma for only a few minutes oxidizes the silicon nitride surface, creating several nanometer thick silicon dioxide layers with a compressive stress of 1.30(16) GPa. Such oxide layers can cause a reduction in the effective tensile stress of a 50 nm thick stoichiometric silicon nitride membrane by almost 50%. Additionally, intrinsic damping linearly increases with the silicon dioxide film thickness. An oxide layer of 1.5 nm grown in just 10 s in a 50 W oxygen plasma almost doubled the intrinsic damping. The oxide surface layer can be efficiently removed in buffered hydrofluoric acid.
Angular distribution of hybridization in sputtered carbon thin film
Authors: Liu Y. , Wang H. , Wei Z. C.
Published: August 2017

The sp3/sp2 ratio of sputtered carbon thin film depends on the ion bombardment process and tailors the physical properties of carbon thin film. In present work, we report the angular distribution of hybridization in magnetron sputtered carbon thin film for the first time. By x-ray photoelectron spectra analyses, it is found that the sp3/sp2 ratio increases linearly with increasing the deposition angle from 0 to 90 degree, which could be attributed to the enhancement of direct knocking-out of near-surface target atoms. In addition, we also derive the sp3/sp2 ratio by simulation on complex permittivity in terahertz frequency using a modified percolation approximation tunneling model. Those derived data consist with the results from x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Simulations of anti-parallel reconnection using a nonlocal heat flux closure
Authors: Ng Jonathan , Hakim Ammar , Bhattacharjee A. , Stanier Adam , Daughton W.
Published: August 2017

The integration of kinetic effects in fluid models is important for global simulations of the Earth's magnetosphere. In particular, it has been shown that ion kinetics play a crucial role in the dynamics of large reconnecting systems, and that higher-order fluid moment models can account for some of these effects. Here, we use a ten-moment model for electrons and ions, which includes the off diagonal elements of the pressure tensor that are important for magnetic reconnection. Kinetic effects are recovered by using a nonlocal heat flux closure, which approximates linear Landau damping in the fluid framework. The closure is tested using the island coalescence problem, which is sensitive to ion dynamics. We demonstrate that the nonlocal closure is able to self-consistently reproduce the structure of the ion diffusion region, pressure tensor, and ion velocity without the need for fine-tuning of relaxation coefficients present in earlier models.
Optical emission spectroscopy of magnetically confined laser induced vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) plasma
Authors: Amin Saba , Bashir Shazia , Anjum Safia , Akram Mahreen , Hayat Asma , Waheed Sadia , Iftikhar Hina , Dawood Assadullah , Mahmood Khaliq
Published: August 2017

Optical emission spectra of a laser induced plasma of vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) using a Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm, 10 ns) in the presence and absence of the magnetic field of 0.45 T have been investigated. The effect of the magnetic field (B) on the V2O5 plasma at various laser irradiances ranging from 0.64 GW cm−2 to 2.56 GW cm−2 is investigated while keeping the pressure of environmental gases of Ar and Ne constant at 100 Torr. The magnetic field effect on plasma parameters of V2O5 is also explored at different delay times ranging from 0 μs to 10 μs for both environmental gases of Ar and Ne at the laser irradiance of 1.28 GW cm−2. It is revealed that both the emission intensity and electron temperature of the vanadium pentoxide plasma initially increase with increasing irradiance due to the enhanced energy deposition and mass ablation rate. After achieving a certain maximum, both exhibit a decreasing trend or saturation which is attributable to the plasma shielding effect. However, the electron density shows a decreasing trend with increasing laser irradiance. This trend remains the same for both cases, i.e., in the presence and in the absence of magnetic field and for both background gases of Ar and Ne. However, it is revealed that both the electron temperature and electron density of the V2O5 plasma are significantly enhanced in the presence of the magnetic field for both environments at all laser irradiances and delay times, and more pronounced effects are observed at higher irradiances. The enhancement in plasma parameters is attributed to the confinement as well as Joule heating effects caused by magnetic field employment. The confinement of the plasma is also confirmed by the analytically calculated value of magnetic pressure β, which is smaller than plasma pressure at all irradiances and delay times, and therefore confirms the validity of magnetic confinement of the V2O5 plasma.
Atomic-scale friction behavior of layered graphene and graphene-like BN materials modulated by interaction potential
Authors: Zhuang Chunqiang , Liu Lei
Published: August 2017

The understanding of fundamental issues related to friction at the atomic scale remains a great challenge due to the large difference between macroscopic and microscopic frictional behaviors. Here based on first-principles calculations, the applicability of macroscopic friction laws to the atomic scale is studied. The underlying mechanism that governs friction behavior is also explored. A completely new perspective of understanding the friction at the atomic scale is presented according to the observation of the applicability of friction law at the atomic scale and the variations of interaction potential induced by the number of layer and normal load.
Current from a nano-gap hyperbolic diode using shape-factors: Theory
Authors: Jensen Kevin L. , Shiffler Donald A. , Peckerar Martin , Harris John R. , Petillo John J.
Published: August 2017

Quantum tunneling by field emission from nanoscale features or sharp field emission structures for which the anode-cathode gap is nanometers in scale (“nano diodes”) experience strong deviations from the planar image charge lowered tunneling barrier used in the Murphy and Good formulation of the Fowler-Nordheim equation. These deviations alter the prediction of total current from a curved surface. Modifications to the emission barrier are modeled using a hyperbolic (prolate spheroidal) geometry to determine the trajectories along which the Gamow factor in a WKB-like treatment is undertaken; a quadratic equivalent potential is determined, and a method of shape factors is used to evaluate the corrected total current from a protrusion or wedge geometry.
Predicting the breakdown strength and lifetime of nanocomposites using a multi-scale modeling approach
Authors: Huang Yanhui , Zhao He , Wang Yixing , Ratcliff Tyree , Breneman Curt , Brinson L. Catherine , Chen Wei , Schadler Linda S.
Published: August 2017

It has been found that doping dielectric polymers with a small amount of nanofiller or molecular additive can stabilize the material under a high field and lead to increased breakdown strength and lifetime. Choosing appropriate fillers is critical to optimizing the material performance, but current research largely relies on experimental trial and error. The employment of computer simulations for nanodielectric design is rarely reported. In this work, we propose a multi-scale modeling approach that employs ab initio, Monte Carlo, and continuum scales to predict the breakdown strength and lifetime of polymer nanocomposites based on the charge trapping effect of the nanofillers. The charge transfer, charge energy relaxation, and space charge effects are modeled in respective hierarchical scales by distinctive simulation techniques, and these models are connected together for high fidelity and robustness. The preliminary results show good agreement with the experimental data, suggesting its promise for use in the computer aided material design of high performance dielectrics.
Electric-field tuning of ferromagnetic resonance in CoFeB/MgO magnetic tunnel junction on a piezoelectric PMN-PT substrate
Authors: Xiong Rongxin , Fang Bin , Li Gang , Xiao Yongguang , Tang Minghua , Li Zheng
Published: August 2017

We investigated the strain-induced modulation of in-plane magnetic anisotropy in single crystal Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)0.7Ti0.3O3 (PMN-PT) with a (011) orientation/seed layer/IrMn/CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB/capping layer structure using spin-torque ferromagnetic resonance (ST-FMR) at room temperature. An in-plane biaxial strain is produced by an electric field applied across the substrate, which results in the tuning of the magnetic anisotropy of the CoFeB layer. As the change in the electric field value progresses, the MR loop becomes slanted, indicating the change in the easy axis direction. A strain-induced FMR frequency shift dependence of 145 MHz⋅cm⋅kV−1 is obtained by analyzing the experimental FMR spectra. An analytical model of the potential dynamic mechanism based on the strain induced reorientation of magnetization was discussed. Our results suggest that PMN-PT based magnetic tunnel junctions can have applications in electric-field driven spintronic devices.
Combining FEM and optical tweezers to better understand mechanical properties of erythrocytes
Authors: Dowd Deborah
Published: August 2017

Using finite element method (FEM) and optical tweezers, researchers investigate mechanical changes in erythrocytes in different environments.
A carrier transport model in the high-resistance state of lead-methylamine iodide-based resistive memory devices
Authors: Kwon Yongwoo , Park Nayoung , Cha Pil-Ryung
Published: August 2017

Methylamine lead iodide (CH3NH3PbI3), which has recently been in the spotlight as a solar cell material, has also recently shown promise for use as an active material in resistive memory cells with ultralow operation voltages, good transparencies, and flexibilities. The material’s defects, which govern its properties, differ vastly depending on the fabrication process. However, the defect chemistry is not yet entirely understood. We have therefore established a macroscopic transport model with defect-related model parameters, such as trap density, trap energy level, and Fermi level, in order to estimate these parameters for fabricated samples based on their electrical data. Our model will serve as an efficient way to analyze the properties of the active material.
Declines in the mammal assemblage of a rugged sandstone environment in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: Ibbett M. , Woinarski J. C. Z. , Oakwood M.
Published: August 2017

There has been marked recent decline in the terrestrial mammal fauna across much of northern Australia, with most documentation of such decline for lowland areas. Here we report changes in the assemblage of small mammals in a rugged sandstone environment (Nawurlandja, in Kakadu National Park) over intermittent sampling between 1977 and 2002. Four native mammal species were commonly recorded in the original sampling: sandstone antechinus (Pseudantechinus bilarni), northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), Arnhem rock-rat (Zyzomys maini) and common rock-rat (Z. argurus). Trap success rates declined significantly for the northern quoll, Arnhem rock-rat and all species combined, but increased for the common rock-rat. Despite being recorded commonly in the initial (1977–79) study, no Arnhem rock-rats were recorded in the most recent (2002) sampling. Trap success rates for northern quoll declined by ~90% from 1977–79 to 2002. The reasons for change are not clear-cut. Notably, all sampling occurred before the arrival of cane toads (Rhinella marina), a factor that has caused severe decline in northern quoll numbers elsewhere. Fire was more frequent in the sampling area in the period preceding the 2002 sampling than it was in the period preceding the initial (1977–79) sampling, and this may have contributed to change in mammal abundance.
Camera trap evidence of red fox (Vulpes vulpes) predation attempts on adult macropods
Authors: Meek Paul D. , Wishart Jason
Published: August 2017

Camera traps provide a novel and quasicovert method of gathering information on animal behaviour that may otherwise remain undetected without sophisticated and expensive filming equipment. In a rangelands pest management project at Mt Hope in the central west of New South Wales, Australia, we recorded foxes seemingly hunting kangaroos on three occasions. While we did not record direct instances of predation, our observations provide camera trap photographic evidence suggesting that foxes will attempt to tackle mammals above the critical weight range, including large macropod species such as western grey kangaroos.
Can resveratrol attenuate testicular damage in neonatal and adult rats exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin during gestation?
Authors: Erthal Rafaela P. , Siervo Gláucia E. M. L. , Silveira Lívia T. R. , Scarano Wellerson R. , Fernandes Glaura S. A.
Published: August 2017

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is considered one of the most toxic dioxins. The effects of TCDD are exerted via binding to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible protective effects of resveratrol, an AhR antagonist, against testicular damage caused by TCDD exposure during pregnancy. Pregnant female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: a control group; a group treated with 1 µg kg−1, p.o., TCDD on Gestational Day (GD) 15; a group treated with 20 µg kg−1, p.o., resveratrol on GD10–21; and a group treated with both TCDD and resveratrol. Rats were weighed and killed, and neonatal testes were collected for histopathological analysis on Postnatal Day (PND) 1. At PND90, adult male rats were killed and the testes collected for histopathological analysis and determination of sperm count. Resveratrol had a protective effect against the effects of TCDD on Sertoli cell number in adult and neonate testes, as well as against the effects of TCDD on abnormal seminiferous tubules in adults. Combined administration of TCDD and resveratrol altered the kinetics of spermatogenesis and the proportion of neonatal testicular compartments compared with the control group In addition, combined TCDD and resveratrol treatment decreased seminiferous tubule diameter in adult male rats compared with the control group. In conclusion, resveratrol may protect against some TCDD-induced testicular damage, but, based on the parameters assessed, the administration of resveratrol and TCDD in combination may result in more severe toxicity than administration of either drug alone.
Cultivating a reluctance to simplify: exploring the radio communication context in wildland firefighting
Authors: Fox R. , Gabor E. , Thomas D. , Ziegler J. , Black A.
Published: August 2017

Although communication is often cited as a contributor to organisational accidents, complexities of the communication context are still understudied. In training materials and some investigative reports, communication is often presented as an equipment issue or as a simple skill that can be picked up on the job. However, interviews with operational and managerial professionals in wildland firefighting reveal 10 simplifications in guidance about radio communication that do not match the complexities experienced by firefighters in the fire environment. Borrowing language from high-reliability organising theory, this study encourages the fire community to cultivate a ‘reluctance to simplify’ how communication is understood and taught, starting with introductory training. The study recommends a move away from the old information transfer model for communication and towards an ecology of meanings model for communication.
Underreporting of wildland fires in the US Fire Reporting System NFIRS: California
Authors: Butry David T. , Thomas Douglas S.
Published: August 2017

The absence of a comprehensive and accurate database on fire occurrence means that some proportion of wildfires is not reported. This paper examines wildfires reported in the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) database and compares it with the satellite-based Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) fire detection data and the CAL FIRE Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP) geodatabase to understand underreporting of wildland fires in the NFIRS system. The paper discusses a series of large wildland fires and uses a Generalised Linear Model to identify the conditions where large wildfires go unreported. This paper shows that the NFIRS database, which is the primary fire database in the US, significantly underreports wildland fires. Evidence from California suggests that 32% of fires within local jurisdictions detected via MODIS satellite were identified in the NFIRS database; thus, there could be a significant number of fires going unreported nationwide. Examining eight large fires in California, only 16% of the structures damaged or destroyed, as reported in CAL FIRE, were reported in NFIRS. Areas with underreporting tend to have a higher level of poverty, higher population density, higher level of people without vehicles, lower income and a higher level of single parents with children under 18, as well as a higher level of people under the age of 18.
Nuclear carbonic anhydrase 6B associates with PRMT5 to epigenetically promote IL-12 expression in innate response
Authors: Xu Jia , Xu Xiaoqing , Wang Bingjing , Ma Yuanwu , Zhang Lianfeng , Xu Henan , Hu Ye , Wu Jiacheng , Cao Xuetao
Published: August 2017

Significance

The immune system is important for host defense against invading pathogens by producing proinflammatory cytokines and IFNs. IL-12 is a vital proinflammatory cytokine that combines innate immunity with adaptive immunity. In our study, we find that CA-VI B preferentially expressed in macrophages can interact with PRMT5, consequently suppressing H3R8me2s modification in
Il12
promoters to promote IL-12 production to trigger an antibacterial immune response. Our study adds insight about the function of CA family members in innate immune response by selectively inducing cytokine IL-12 production through regulating histone arginine modification, which is independent of its carbonic anhydrase activity.
Effect of ATP and regulatory light-chain phosphorylation on the polymerization of mammalian nonmuscle myosin II
Authors: Liu Xiong , Billington Neil , Shu Shi , Yu Shu-Hua , Piszczek Grzegorz , Sellers James R. , Korn Edward D.
Published: August 2017

Significance

Nonmuscle myosin II (NM2) filaments have essential roles in many cellular processes that require the dynamic relocation of filamentous myosin. We find that addition of ATP to polymerized regulatory light chain (RLC)-unphosphorylated NM2s in vitro results in the formation of dimers, tetramers, hexamers, and monomers, which is reversed by phosphorylation of the RLC. Our data suggest that assembly of NM2 filaments proceeds from folded monomers to folded antiparallel dimers, tetramers, and hexamers that unfold and polymerize into antiparallel filaments. This could explain the dynamic relocalization of NM2 filaments in vivo by dephosphorylation of RLC-phosphorylated filaments, disassembly of the dephosphorylated filaments to monomers, dimers, and small oligomers, diffusion of these species, and their reassembly into filaments at the new location following rephosphorylation of the RLC.
Origins of coevolution between residues distant in protein 3D structures
Authors: Anishchenko Ivan , Ovchinnikov Sergey , Kamisetty Hetunandan , Baker David
Published: August 2017

Significance

Coevolution-derived contact predictions are enabling accurate protein structure modeling. However, coevolving residues are not always in contact, and this is a potential source of error in such modeling efforts. To investigate the sources of such errors and, more generally, the origins of coevolution in protein structures, we provide a global overview of the contributions to the “exceptions” to the general rule that coevolving residues are close in protein three-dimensional structures.
Molecularly targeted drug combinations demonstrate selective effectiveness for myeloid- and lymphoid-derived hematologic malignancies
Authors: Kurtz Stephen E. , Eide Christopher A. , Kaempf Andy , Khanna Vishesh , Savage Samantha L. , Rofelty Angela , English Isabel , Ho Hibery , Pandya Ravi , Bolosky William J. , Poon Hoifung , Deininger Michael W. , Collins Robert , Swords Ronan T. , Watts Justin , Pollyea Daniel A. , Medeiros Bruno C. , Traer Elie , Tognon Cristina E. , Mori Motomi , Druker Brian J. , Tyner Jeffrey W.
Published: August 2017

Significance

Mononuclear cells obtained from freshly isolated patient samples with various hematologic malignancies were evaluated for sensitivities to combinations of drugs that target specific cell-signaling pathways. The diagnostic, genetic/cytogenetic, and cellular features of the patient samples were correlated with effective drug combinations. For myeloid-derived tumors, such as acute myeloid leukemia, several combinations of targeted agents that include a kinase inhibitor and venetoclax, a selective inhibitor of BCL2, are effective.
Interdomain conformational flexibility underpins the activity of UGGT, the eukaryotic glycoprotein secretion checkpoint
Authors: Roversi Pietro , Marti Lucia , Caputo Alessandro T. , Alonzi Dominic S. , Hill Johan C. , Dent Kyle C. , Kumar Abhinav , Levasseur Mikail D. , Lia Andrea , Waksman Thomas , Basu Souradeep , Soto Albrecht Yentli , Qian Kristin , McIvor James Patrick , Lipp Colette B. , Siliqi Dritan , Vasiljević Snežana , Mohammed Shabaz , Lukacik Petra , Walsh Martin A. , Santino Angelo , Zitzmann Nicole
Published: August 2017

Significance

A dedicated endoplasmic reticulum quality control (ERQC) machinery ensures the correct fold of secreted proteins bearing N-linked glycans, which constitute around a fifth of the whole proteome and are essential for many important cellular processes such as signaling, immunity, adhesion, transport, and metabolism. UDP-glucose:glycoprotein glucosyltransferase (UGGT) is the sole checkpoint enzyme of ERQC, flagging incorrectly folded glycoproteins for ER retention. Here, we describe crystal structures of full-length UGGT. We show that enzymatic activity depends on interdomain conformational mobility, indicating that the intrinsic flexibility of UGGT may endow the enzyme with the promiscuity needed to recognize and reglucosylate its many different substrates.
Lampreys, the jawless vertebrates, contain only two ParaHox gene clusters
Authors: Zhang Huixian , Ravi Vydianathan , Tay Boon-Hui , Tohari Sumanty , Pillai Nisha E. , Prasad Aravind , Lin Qiang , Brenner Sydney , Venkatesh Byrappa
Published: August 2017

Significance

Lampreys and hagfishes are the only living members of jawless vertebrates, the most ancient lineage of vertebrates, and are therefore a crucial group for understanding the evolution of vertebrates. ParaHox genes (
Gsx
,
Pdx
, and
Cdx
) are an important family of developmental genes that play critical roles in the patterning of brain, pancreas, and posterior gut of jawed vertebrates. Here we show that lampreys contain two ParaHox gene clusters compared with four ParaHox loci in most jawed vertebrates. The lamprey
Gsxβ
gene is expressed specifically in the eye, an unusual expression domain for
Gsx
genes. The pancreatic expression of the lamprey
Pdx
gene suggests the crucial role of Pdx in pancreas specification and insulin production evolved in the common ancestor of vertebrates.
Exposure to and recall of violence reduce short-term memory and cognitive control
Authors: Bogliacino Francesco , Grimalda Gianluca , Ortoleva Pietro , Ring Patrick
Published: August 2017

Significance

Research on violence has mainly focused on its consequences on individuals’ health and behavior. This study establishes the effects of exposure to violence on individuals’ short-term memory and cognitive control. These are key factors affecting individual well-being and societal development. We sampled Colombian civilians who were exposed either to urban violence or to warfare. We found that higher exposure to violence significantly reduces short-term memory and cognitive control only in the group actively recalling emotional states linked with such experiences. This finding demonstrates and characterizes the long-lasting effects of violence. Existing studies have found effects of poverty on cognitive control similar to those that we found for violence. This set of findings supports the validity of the cognitive theory underpinning these studies.
Electrical conductivity of SiO
2
at extreme conditions and planetary dynamos
Authors: Scipioni Roberto , Stixrude Lars , Desjarlais Michael P.
Published: August 2017

Significance

We find that Earth’s earliest magnetic field may have been produced in a deep magma ocean, and that silicate dynamos may exist in super-Earth exoplanets as well. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations show that silicate liquids are semimetallic at the extreme pressure and temperature conditions characteristic of planetary interiors. The electrical conductivity shows a remarkable nonmonotonic dependence on pressure that reveals connections to the underlying atomic structure, and highlights broken charge ordering as a novel compression mechanism.
Climate matching drives spread rate but not establishment success in recent unintentional bird introductions
Authors: Abellán Pedro , Tella José L. , Carrete Martina , Cardador Laura , Anadón José D.
Published: August 2017

Significance

The awareness of the negative consequences of biological invasions and the critical importance of evidence-based decision making have led to a persistent effort to understand the factors driving the successful invasion of exotic species and to predict invasion outcome. We assess, taking advantage of an exceptionally comprehensive dataset of exotic birds in the Iberian Peninsula, the role of different factors in the invasion success of current avian introductions. Our findings contrast with the evidence previously found in studies mostly based on deliberate introductions regarding factors influencing the invasion success of birds and show that drivers controlling the establishment and spread stages are markedly different. Our results also highlight certain challenges for managing current invasions.
Early history of Neanderthals and Denisovans
Authors: Rogers Alan R. , Bohlender Ryan J. , Huff Chad D.
Published: August 2017

Significance

Neanderthals and Denisovans were human populations that separated from the modern lineage early in the Middle Pleistocene. Many modern humans carry DNA derived from these archaic populations by interbreeding during the Late Pleistocene. We develop a statistical method to study the early history of these archaic populations. We show that the archaic lineage was very small during the 10,000 y that followed its separation from the modern lineage. It then split into two regional populations, the Neanderthals and the Denisovans. The Neanderthal population grew large and separated into largely isolated local groups.
Phosphorylation of serine96 of histidine-rich calcium-binding protein by the Fam20C kinase functions to prevent cardiac arrhythmia
Authors: Pollak Adam J. , Haghighi Kobra , Kunduri Swati , Arvanitis Demetrios A. , Bidwell Philip A. , Liu Guan-Sheng , Singh Vivek P. , Gonzalez David J. , Sanoudou Despina , Wiley Sandra E. , Dixon Jack E. , Kranias Evangelia G.
Published: August 2017

Significance

A common variant of histidine-rich Ca-binding protein (HRC), where an alanine replaces a serine at amino acid 96, can increase the risk of dying from severe heart disease. Using human, mice, and cellular models, we show that this variant blocks position 96 from becoming phosphorylated, a prevalent type of protein modification carried out by kinase enzymes. We demonstrate that phosphorylation of HRC at Ser96 indeed provides protection from heart disease, and we identify family with sequence similarity 20C (Fam20C) as the kinase that phosphorylates HRC. HRC phosphorylation appears to play a role in regulating Ca cycling that is critical for proper cardiac muscle contraction. This demonstration of Fam20C’s role in heart disease opens up avenues for potential preventative or therapeutic strategies.
Janus dendrimersomes coassembled from fluorinated, hydrogenated, and hybrid Janus dendrimers as models for cell fusion and fission
Authors: Xiao Qi , Sherman Samuel E. , Wilner Samantha E. , Zhou Xuhao , Dazen Cody , Baumgart Tobias , Reed Ellen H. , Hammer Daniel A. , Shinoda Wataru , Klein Michael L. , Percec Virgil
Published: August 2017

Significance

Janus particles (JPs) are structures with two distinct faces. This study reports the discovery of an unprecedented class of JPs denoted Janus dendrimersomes (JDSs) coassembled from amphiphilic Janus dendrimers (JDs) with fluorinated, hydrogenated, and hybrid fluorinated–hydrogenated hydrophobic chains. JDSs consist of fluorinated and hydrogenated vesicles connected in a dumbbell-like shape. They appear as one structure in a broader fission-like pathway, which is revealed by varying the ratios of the three JD components. This pathway implies that non–protein-mediated fission and fusion is a likely mechanism by which similar structures form in synthetic and biological systems. These results highlight the potential importance of non–protein-mediated fusion and fission for biology and medicine.
Histone phosphorylation by TRPM6’s cleaved kinase attenuates adjacent arginine methylation to regulate gene expression
Authors: Krapivinsky Grigory , Krapivinsky Luba , Renthal Nora E. , Santa-Cruz Ana , Manasian Yunona , Clapham David E.
Published: August 2017

Significance

Ion channels are proteins that span the cell’s membrane and affect the rapid transfer of ions. Kinases are proteins that transfer a phosphate from ATP to specific substrates. In mammals, there are two unusual proteins, melastatin-related transient receptor potential (TRPM)6 and TRPM7, that have both functions. Here we show that TRPM6’s kinase and channel domains are functionally connected: The kinase is cleaved from the channel domain, and this cleavage depends on the channel being operational. The freed kinase moves to the nucleus and phosphorylates specific histone residues. This results in a dramatic decrease in methylation of adjacent arginine amino acids shown to be critical epigenetic marks for cell differentiation and embryonic development. TRPM6’s kinase-dependent histone posttranslational modifications change the transcription of hundreds of genes.
Medial temporal lobe and topographical memory
Authors: Urgolites Zhisen J. , Hopkins Ramona O. , Squire Larry R.
Published: August 2017

Significance

We investigated the role of the medial temporal lobe (MTL) in topographical memory. Participants studied a scene depicting four hills of different shapes and sizes and made a choice among four test images. MTL patients were impaired in a Rotation condition where the correct choice depicted the study scene from a shifted perspective. Analysis of this impairment in three tasks and a total of nine conditions suggests that the impairment is unrelated to the ability to accommodate shifts in perspectives. We propose that the impairment need not suggest a specific role of the MTL in remembering spatial layouts and that the findings instead reflect a broad impairment in remembering that applies to both spatial and nonspatial material.
Ancient DNA reveals the Arctic origin of Viking Age cod from Haithabu, Germany
Authors: Star Bastiaan , Boessenkool Sanne , Gondek Agata T. , Nikulina Elena A. , Hufthammer Anne Karin , Pampoulie Christophe , Knutsen Halvor , André Carl , Nistelberger Heidi M. , Dierking Jan , Petereit Christoph , Heinrich Dirk , Jakobsen Kjetill S. , Stenseth Nils Chr. , Jentoft Sissel , Barrett James H.
Published: August 2017

Significance

A rich archaeological record of fish-bone remains testifies to the millennia-long human exploitation of the natural resources of the oceans. In Europe, historical evidence demonstrates that an extensive international industry developed during the Middle Ages that exported preserved cod from the Lofoten Archipelago, northern Norway, to expanding urban centers around the North and Baltic Sea regions. The early origins of this iconic exchange, however, have long been debated. We genetically trace the ancestry of Viking Age fish from mainland Europe to the North East Arctic cod population that supports the modern Lofoten fisheries. This application of genome-wide analyses from ancient fish bone reveals an early origin of what became an economically important trade, with implications for archaeology and environmental history.
Safety of Strontium Chloride as a Skeletal Marking Agent for Pacific Salmon
Authors: Getchell Rodman G. , Bowser Paul R. , Cornwell Emily R. , Pavek Todd , Baneux Philippe , Kirby Drew , Sams Kelly L. , Marquis Hélène
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biological effects associated with administering strontium chloride as a marking agent to age-0 Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha fry. Fish were held in a 0× (0 mg/L), 1× (3,000 mg/L; current standard dosage), 3× (9,000 mg/L), or 5× (15,000 mg/L) solution of strontium chloride for 72 h (three times the standard duration of 24 h). The mortality among fish in the 5× strontium chloride exposure group was significantly higher than that observed in the other groups. A dose-related effect on general fish behavior and on feeding behavior was observed. Fish in all test tanks appeared to feed to satiation, except for fish in the 5× tanks during days 2 and 3. Fish in all other test tanks behaved normally. No dose-related effect on fish growth was detected. Histopathological evaluations showed that fish in the 5× exposure group had a significantly higher number of gill lesions than the 0× group. Our mortality, behavioral, and histological assessments suggested that juvenile Chinook Salmon could be safely immersed for three consecutive days in a 9,000-mg/L solution of strontium chloride. This finding potentially expands the present 1,000–3,000-mg/L dosage and 24-h holding period that can be used to mark juvenile fish with strontium chloride solutions. The research also provides necessary target animal safety data for U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of strontium chloride as an alternative marking method that is suitable for fish with a short holding time.

Received February 19, 2017; accepted July 16, 2017 Published online September 22, 2017
Sport disciplines, types of sports, and waist circumference in young adulthood – a population‐based twin study
Authors: Rottensteiner Mirva , Mäkelä Sara , Bogl Leonie H. , Törmäkangas Timo , Kaprio Jaakko , Kujala Urho M.
Published: August 2017

Purpose: The benefits of physical activity (PA) in preventing abdominal obesity are well recognized, but the role of different sport disciplines remains open. We aimed, therefore, to investigate how participation in different sport disciplines, and the number and types of sports engaged in are associated with waist circumference (WC) in young adulthood. Methods: This population‐based cohort study comprised 4027 Finnish twin individuals (1874 men), with a mean age of 34 y (32–37), who answered a survey, including self‐measured WC. We extracted the number and identified the types (aerobic, power, and mixed) of the different sport disciplines respondents reported participating in. Results: The number of sport disciplines participated in was inversely associated with WC, the linear decrease averaging 1.38 cm (95% CI 1.10–1.65) per each additional sport discipline. The result persisted after adjustment for the main covariates, such as volume of PA and diet quality. Among dizygotic twin pairs discordant for sports participation (0–2 vs. 5 or more disciplines), the mean within‐pair difference in WC was 4.8 cm (95% CI 0.4–9.1) for men and 11.2 cm (95% CI 4.4–18.0) for women; among discordant monozygotic pairs, no differences were observed. In men, all three types of sports were individually associated with smaller WC, while in women, only mixed and power sports showed this association. Conclusions: Participation in several sport disciplines and sport types was associated with smaller WC among young adults in their mid‐30s. Shared genetic background may explain some of the associations.
The draft genome sequence of a desert tree Populus pruinosa
Authors: Yang Wenlu , Wang Kun , Zhang Jian , Ma Jianchao , Liu Jianquan , Ma Tao
Published: August 2017

Populus pruinosa is a large tree that grows in deserts and shows distinct differences in both morphology and adaptation compared to its sister species, P. euphratica. Here we present a draft genome sequence for P. pruinosa and examine genomic variations between the 2 species. A total of 60 Gb of clean reads from whole-genome sequencing of a P. pruinosa individual were generated using the Illumina HiSeq2000 platform. The assembled genome is 479.3 Mb in length, with an N50 contig size of 14.0 kb and a scaffold size of 698.5 kb; 45.47% of the genome is composed of repetitive elements. We predicted 35 131 protein-coding genes, of which 88.06% were functionally annotated. Gene family clustering revealed 224 unique and 640 expanded gene families in the P. pruinosa genome. Further evolutionary analysis identified numerous genes with elevated values for pairwise genetic differentiation between P. pruinosa and P. euphratica. We provide the genome sequence and gene annotation for P. pruinosa. A large number of genetic variations were recovered by comparison of the genomes between P. pruinosa and P. euphratica. These variations will provide a valuable resource for studying the genetic bases for the phenotypic and adaptive divergence of the 2 sister species.
The Burden and Clinical Presentation of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Adults With Severe Respiratory Illness in a High Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevalence Setting, 2012–2014
Authors: Walaza Sibongile , Tempia Stefano , Dreyer Andries , Dawood Halima , Variava Ebrahim , Martinson Neil A. , Moyes Jocelyn , Cohen Adam L. , Wolter Nicole , von Mollendorf Claire , von Gottberg Anne , Haffejee Sumayya , Treurnicht Florette , Hellferscee Orienka , Ismail Nazir , Cohen Cheryl
Published: August 2017

Background

Understanding the burden and clinical presentation of tuberculosis in patients with severe respiratory illness (SRI) has important implications for anticipating treatment requirements.

Methods

Hospitalized patients aged ≥15 years with SRI at 2 public teaching hospitals in periurban areas in 2 provinces (Edendale Hospital in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal Province and Tshepong Hospital in Klerksdorp, North West Province) were enrolled prospectively from 2012 to 2014. Tuberculosis testing included smear microscopy, culture, or Xpert MTB/Rif.

Results

We enrolled 2486 individuals with SRI. Of these, 2097 (84%) were tested for tuberculosis, 593 (28%) were positive. Tuberculosis detection rate was 18% (133 of 729) in individuals with acute (≤14 days) presentation and 34% (460 of 1368) in those with chronic (>14 days) presentation. Among laboratory-confirmed tuberculosis cases, those with acute presentation were less likely to present with cough (88% [117 of 133] vs 97% [447 of 460]; ajusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.1–0.5), night sweats (57% [75 of 132] vs 73% [337 of 459]; aOR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.3–0.7), or be started on tuberculosis treatment on admission (63% [78 of 124] vs 81% [344 of 423]; aOR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.3–0.7), but they were more likely to be coinfected with pneumococcus (13% [16 of 124] vs 6% [26 of 411]; aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.3–5.3) than patients with chronic presentation. Annual incidence of acute and chronic tuberculosis-associated SRI per 100000 population was 28 (95% CI = 22–39) and 116 (95% CI = 104–128), respectively.

Conclusions

In this setting, tuberculosis, including acute presentation, is common in patients hospitalized with SRI.
Three Pythium Species Isolated From Severely Stunted Wheat During an Outbreak in North Carolina
Authors: Lookabaugh Emma , Shew Barbara , Cowger Christina
Published: August 2017

Large portions of eastern North Carolina experienced prolonged soil waterlogging in 2016. Severely stunted wheat plants from saturated fields were examined and Pythium spp. consistently were associated with the symptoms observed. Three species of Pythium were identified among 15 isolates derived from wheat roots and crowns: P. irregulare, P. spinosum, and P. vanterpoolii. Each species was isolated from samples that came from between two and five counties. Pythium vanterpoolii and P. spinosum have not previously been reported as pathogens in wheat in the United States. All three species caused root rot when reinoculated on wheat plants. These species are not opportunistic or mainly saprophytic on other hosts; therefore, it is likely that they contributed to the extreme stunting and yield loss observed in North Carolina wheat in 2016. The 15 isolates were tested for sensitivity to mefenoxam at 100 μg/ml a.i. and none was insensitive. Prolonged hypoxia likely predisposed North Carolina wheat to unusual levels of Pythium root rot in 2016.
Climate changes and Hymenoptera venom allergy: are there some connections?
Authors: Turillazzi Stefano , Turillazzi Francesco
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

This review aims to update the world status of the main allergenic stinging Hymenoptera.

Recent findings

In this review, we consider the problems that social Hymenoptera (bees, wasps and ants) could represent in the nearest future for human health in different parts of the world.

Distribution and consistency of allergenic species including venomous insects are interested by accelerated dynamics caused by climate changes and globalization. Owing to the expansion of ranges of native species and colonization of invasive ones, even in the uncertainty of present available models, new challenges presented by stinging Hymenoptera should be expected in the future.
Hymenoptera-induced anaphylaxis: is it a mast cell driven hematological disorder?
Authors: Brockow Knut , Akin Cem
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

Hymenoptera-induced allergy (HVA) is a common cause of anaphylaxis and may be fatal. It is associated with systemic mastocytosis in about 7% of adult patients. Systemic mastocytosis is a proliferative disorder of hematopoietic mast cell progenitors. There is recent data on the association between systemic mastocytosis and HVA.

Recent findings

Hymenoptera venoms are the most common immunoglobulin E-mediated elicitors of anaphylaxis in patients with mastocytosis. Some patients with systemic mastocytosis do not have cutaneous involvement and have only been identified because of HVA. These patients do have distinct demographic, clinical, and laboratory features as compared with patients with mastocytosis with skin lesions. They show a male predominance, more severe (cardiovascular) as compared to skin symptoms, lower baseline serum tryptase, less bone marrow mast cell aggregates, andKITmutations restricted to mast cell lineage.

Although hymenoptera-induced anaphylaxis is not primarily a mast cell-driven hematological disorder, the latter is present in a significant proportion of patients and has to be excluded by basal serum tryptase determination, skin inspection as well as exclusion of systemic mastocytosis by D816V mutation analysis in peripheral blood and/or bone marrow examination in selected patients.