bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disk heating and bending instability in galaxies with counterrotation
Authors: Khoperskov Sergey , Bertin Giuseppe
Published: November 2016

With the help of high-resolution long-slit and integral-field spectroscopy observations, the number of confirmed cases of galaxies with counterrotation is increasing rapidly. The evolution of such counterrotating galaxies remains far from being well understood. In this paper we study the dynamics of counterrotating collisionless stellar disks by means ofN-body simulations. We show that, in the presence of counterrotation, an otherwise gravitationally stable disk can naturally generate bending waves accompanied by strong disk heating across the disk plane, that is in the vertical direction. Such a conclusion is found to hold even for dynamically warm systems with typical values of the initial vertical-to-radial velocity dispersion ratioσz/σR≈ 0.5, for which the role of pressure anisotropy should be unimportant. We note that, during evolution, theσz/σRratio tends to rise up to values close to unity in the case of locally Jeans-stable disks, whereas in disks that are initially Jeans-unstable it may reach even higher values, especially in the innermost regions. This unusual behavior of theσz/σRratio in galaxies with counterrotation appears not to have been noticed earlier. Our investigations of systems made of two counterrotating components with different mass-ratios suggest that even apparently normal disk galaxies (i.e., with a minor counterrotating component so as to escape detection in current observations) might be subject to significant disk heating especially in the vertical direction.
Geometric and numerical methods for a state constrained minimum time control problem of an electric vehicle
Authors: Cots Olivier
Published: November 2016

In this article, the minimum time control problem of an electric vehicle is modeled as a Mayer problem in optimal control, with affine dynamics with respect to the control and with state constraints. The candidates as minimizers are selected among a set of extremals, solutions of a Hamiltonian system given by the maximum principle. An analysis, with the techniques of geometric control, is used first to reduce the set of candidates and then to construct the numerical methods. This leads to a numerical investigation based on indirect methods using the HamPath software. Multiple shooting and homotopy techniques are used to build a synthesis with respect to the bounds of the boundary sets.
Dislodged Guidewire in the Descending Aorta and Iliofemoral Artery during Transfemoral Sheath Placement: Percutaneous Retrieval via Contralateral Femoral Artery—An Innovative Approach
Authors: Deb Sumit , Biswas Nilay , Goswami Anik Giri , Sajjad Abdus , Mandal Subhayan
Published: November 2016

A case in which a 0.038-inch guidewire was inadvertently pushed into the common femoral-iliac and descending aorta, during sheath-guidewire placement, through the common femoral artery during cerebral angiogram is described here, and a successful retrieval system using a coronary guidewire is also described. A Boston Scientific MPXF 6Fr guiding catheter (Boston Scientific, Boston, Massachusetts, United States) shortened to 70 cm was advanced beyond the floppy tip of the guidewire through the left common femoral artery. A Cordis (Miami, Florida, United States) supersoft coronary guidewire of 0.014-inch diameter, bent on itself through the middle so as to have an available 90 cm, with the closed advancing tip splayed and bent at an angulation of 90 degrees to form a gooseneck, was advanced through the lumen of guiding catheter to seize the floppy tip of the guidewire acting like a snare and captivating it into the guiding catheter; and thereafter, the whole system was withdrawn en bloc.
Interview mit Malte Issleib (UKE): „Notfalltraining sollte für alle Ärzte und Pflegekräfte Pflicht sein“
Authors: Gaede Kirsten
Published: November 2016

Im UKE muss jetzt das gesamte medizinische Personal alle zwei Jahre eine Schulung in der Reanimation durchlaufen. Wie das funktioniert, erklärt Oberarzt Malte Issleib im Interview.
Apotheker- und Ärztebank: Die Kreditmanufaktur
Authors: Gaede Kirsten
Published: November 2016

Die Apobank ist auf das Gesundheitswesen spezialisiert. Zu ihren Kunden zählen vor allem Ärzte und Apotheker, seltener Krankenhausbetreiber. Doch das soll sich ändern: Mit seinem sehr persönlichen Beratungsansatz möchte das Düsseldorfer Geldhaus nun auch vermehrt Kliniken für sich gewinnen.
Editorial: Die Mischung macht’s
Authors: Mau Jens
Published: November 2016

An vier Tagen entsteht im November in Düsseldorf eine Stadt in der Stadt mit Gesundheitsprofis aus aller Welt: Über 40 Jahre gibt es die Medica, und sie gehört mittlerweile zum Herbst wie das Laub oder die Zeitumstellung.
3D-Druck: Revolution in den Startlöchern
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: November 2016

Forschungsprojekte zur Herstellung von Organersatz per 3D-Druck wecken weltweit große Hoffnungen. Auch die TU Berlin arbeitet zusammen mit dem Deutschen Herzzentrum daran, voll funktionsfähige Herzklappen per 3D-Drucker herzustellen. Trotz vielversprechender Ergebnisse ist man hier allerdings vorsichtig, zu früh Erwartungen zu schüren.
Kampf gegen Krankenhauskeime: Der Patient gehört mit ins Boot
Authors: Kramer Axel , Heidecke Claus-Dieter
Published: November 2016

Die Bilanz ist erschreckend: In Deutschland sterben jährlich rund 15.000 Menschen an Infektionen mit gefährlichen Krankenhauskeimen. Dabei sind Patienten nicht nur potenzielle Opfer einer Infektion, sondern ebenso wie ihre Angehörigen Überträger der Erreger. Das „AHOI“-Projekt der Uniklinik Greifswald will daher Patienten stärker für das Thema Infektionsschutz sensibilisieren.
DGIV: Welche Perspektive hat die sektorale Versorgung?
Authors: Spitzer Stefan G.
Published: November 2016

Es besteht wohl kein Zweifel mehr, dass die sektorale Trennung der Versorgung heute für unser Gesundheitswesen von Nachteil ist. Dennoch tut man sich mit der Lösung, wie sie überwunden werden soll, schwer.
Polysaccarides-based gels and solid-state electronic devices with memresistive properties: Synergy between polyaniline electrochemistry and biology
Authors: Cifarelli Angelica , Berzina Tatiana , Parisini Antonella , Erokhin Victor , Iannotta Salvatore
Published: November 2016

A new architecture of organic memristive device is proposed with a double-layered polyelectrolyte, one of which is a biological system that alone drives the memristive behavior. In the device the Physarum polycephalum was used as living organism, the polyaniline as conducting polymer for the source-drain channel. The key choice for the device functioning was the interposition of a biocompatible solid layer between polyaniline and living organism, that must result both electrochemically inert and able to preserve a good electrical conductivity of the polyaniline, notwithstanding the alkaline pH environment required for the surviving of living being, by avoiding strong acids. Pectin with a high degree of methylation and chitosan were tested as interlayer, but only the first one satisfied the essential requirements. It was demonstrated that only when the living organism was integrated in the device, the current-voltage characteristics showed the hysteretic rectifying trends typical of the memristive devices, which however disappeared if the Physarum polycephalum switched to its sclerotic state. The mould resulted to survive a series of at least three cycles of voltage-current measurements carried out in sequence.
The V + I defects in diamond: An ab initio investigation of the electronic structure, of the Raman and IR spectra, and of their possible recombination
Authors: Salustro S. , Nöel Y. , Zicovich-Wilson C. M. , Olivero P. , Dovesi R.
Published: November 2016

The double defect in diamond, vacancy (V) plus 〈100〉 self-split-interstitial (V+I), is investigated at the ab initio quantum mechanical level, by considering the vicinal case VI1 (V is one of the first neighbors of one of the two C atoms constituting the I defect) and the two possible “second neighbors” cases, VI2D, VI2S, in which a carbon atom is a first neighbor of both V and I. The case in which the two defects are at a larger distance is simulated by considering the two isolated defects separately (VI∞). A 6-21G local Gaussian-type basis set and the B3LYP hybrid functional are used for most of the calculations; richer basis sets and other functionals (a global hybrid as PBE0, a range-separated hybrid as HSE06, LDA, PBE, and Hartree-Fock) have also been used for comparison. With this computational approach we evaluate the energy difference between the various spin states, the location of the corresponding bands in the energy gap of pristine diamond, as well as the defect formation energy of the four defects. The path for the recombination of V and I is explored for the vicinal case, by using the distinguished reaction coordinate strategy. A barrier as high as 0.75 eV is found with B3LYP between VI1 and the perfect diamond recombined structure; when other hybrids are used, as PBE0 or HSE06, the barrier increases up to 1.01 eV (pure density functional theory produces lower barriers: 0.62 and 0.67 for PBE and LDA, respectively). Such a barrier is lower than the one estimated in a very indirect way through experimental data, ranging from 1.3 to 1.7 eV. It confirms however the evidence of the extremely low recombination rate also at high temperature. The Raman (and IR) spectra of the various defects are generated, which permit one to unambiguously attribute to these defects (thanks also to the graphical animation of the modes) many of the peaks observed in damaged diamond above the dominant peak of perfect bulk. For the residual non-attributed peaks, more complicated aggregations of defects should be explored.
Maier-Saupe model of polymer nematics: Comparing free energies calculated with Self Consistent Field theory and Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Greco Cristina , Jiang Ying , Chen Jeff Z. Y. , Kremer Kurt , Daoulas Kostas Ch.
Published: November 2016

Self Consistent Field (SCF) theory serves as an efficient tool for studying mesoscale structure and thermodynamics of polymeric liquid crystals (LC). We investigate how some of the intrinsic approximations of SCF affect the description of the thermodynamics of polymeric LC, using a coarse-grained model. Polymer nematics are represented as discrete worm-like chains (WLC) where non-bonded interactions are defined combining an isotropic repulsive and an anisotropic attractive Maier-Saupe (MS) potential. The range of the potentials, σ, controls the strength of correlations due to non-bonded interactions. Increasing σ (which can be seen as an increase of coarse-graining) while preserving the integrated strength of the potentials reduces correlations. The model is studied with particle-based Monte Carlo (MC) simulations and SCF theory which uses partial enumeration to describe discrete WLC. In MC simulations the Helmholtz free energy is calculated as a function of strength of MS interactions to obtain reference thermodynamic data. To calculate the free energy of the nematic branch with respect to the disordered melt, we employ a special thermodynamic integration (TI) scheme invoking an external field to bypass the first-order isotropic-nematic transition. Methodological aspects which have not been discussed in earlier implementations of the TI to LC are considered. Special attention is given to the rotational Goldstone mode. The free-energy landscape in MC and SCF is directly compared. For moderate σ the differences highlight the importance of local non-bonded orientation correlations between segments, which SCF neglects. Simple renormalization of parameters in SCF cannot compensate the missing correlations. Increasing σ reduces correlations and SCF reproduces well the free energy in MC simulations.
Non-exponential kinetics of unfolding under a constant force
Authors: Bell Samuel , Terentjev Eugene M.
Published: November 2016

We examine the population dynamics of naturally folded globular polymers, with a super-hydrophobic “core” inserted at a prescribed point in the polymer chain, unfolding under an application of external force, as in AFM force-clamp spectroscopy. This acts as a crude model for a large class of folded biomolecules with hydrophobic or hydrogen-bonded cores. We find that the introduction of super-hydrophobic units leads to a stochastic variation in the unfolding rate, even when the positions of the added monomers are fixed. This leads to the average non-exponential population dynamics, which is consistent with a variety of experimental data and does not require any intrinsic quenched disorder that was traditionally thought to be at the origin of non-exponential relaxation laws.
All-printed, flexible, reconfigurable frequency selective surfaces
Authors: Haghzadeh Mahdi , Akyurtlu Alkim
Published: November 2016

We demonstrate a new fully printed, conformal, band-pass frequency selective surface (FSS) utilizing a novel interdigitated capacitor (IDC), in which the space between the fingers can be filled with dielectric materials with different dielectric constants. Every dielectric constant corresponds to a different resonance frequency for the FSS, leading to a bandpass performance that can be tuned in a static manner based on the dielectric choice. The 2-D FSS consists of a periodic array of non-resonant and subwavelength structures (i.e., a metallic square loop and a wire grid) printed on either side of a flexible polyimide film using direct-ink writing methodologies. The miniaturized-element nature of this metamaterial-inspired FSS results in localized frequency-selective properties with very low sensitivity to the angle of incidence. Moreover, its symmetric design makes it polarization independent. A multiphase barium strontium titanate/cyclic olefin copolymer (BST/COC) composite with two different BST loadings, corresponding to two different dielectric constants, is the dielectric ink that is printed on the IDCs to vary the resonance frequency of the FSS. Different models of the FSS involving various IDC designs, with a first-order bandpass response at X-band, were simulated, printed, and measured. The center frequency of the template FSS with the air-filled IDC was tuned by 4.52% and 21.08% from 9.96 GHz by printing BST/COC dielectrics with different BST loadings on the IDCs. Moreover, the operation mode of the FSS was switched from a first order filter to a dual-band filter using printed BST/COC ink in a novel FSS design.
Multiferroic cantilever for power generation using dual functionality
Authors: Gupta Reema , Tomar Monika , Rammohan S. , Katiyar R. S. , Gupta Vinay
Published: November 2016

Lead zirconate titanate (PZT)/Ni cantilevers have been developed using the pulsed laser deposition technique for harnessing magnetic as well as mechanical energy. High voltage (1.2 mV, 1.8 mV, and 8.5 mV) and power density (1100, 2400, and 3600 mW/m3) were generated across the PZT/Ni cantilevers (in 3–3 mode) having PZT thin films deposited at 100 mTorr, 200 mTorr, and 300 mTorr oxygen pressures, respectively, at their respective resonance frequencies with 0.5 g acceleration. Maximum power response (3600 mW/m3) was observed at a load resistance of 100 kΩ for the cantilever having PZT film deposited at 300 mTorr oxygen pressure, which is manifested to the efficient ferroelectric and ferromagnetic properties of PZT/Ni system. The power generated from the PZT/Ni cantilever was further enhanced to 18 700 mW/m3 by superimposing magnetic energy with mechanical vibrations. These results are extremely promising for the realization of an efficient energy harvester utilizing both magnetic and mechanical energy.
Trapped-mode resonances in a Voigt plasma layer
Authors: Razzaz Faroq , Alkanhal Majeed A. S.
Published: November 2016

This paper examines the resonant transmission of electromagnetic waves around the trapped modes of a magnetized plasma layer. Expressions for the dispersion relation, the evanescent wave coupling and tunneling, and the condition of trapped modes in the anisotropic Voigt plasma configuration have been derived and quantified. The transfer matrix method is applied to obtain the transmission coefficients across the plasma layer. When the structure is perturbed, resonance is identified around the embedded trapped modes. This resonance results in transmission anomalies (total transmission and total reflection) and dramatic field amplifications around the trapped modes. The number of discrete trapped modes and then the resonance frequencies are prescribed by the parameters of the plasma layer, such as the plasma frequency, the cyclotron frequency, and the layer thickness.
Transport properties of multigrained nanocomposites with imperfect interfaces
Authors: Palla Pier Luca , Giordano Stefano
Published: November 2016

Multigrained or polycrystalline composite materials have attracted a considerable attention due to their potential applications as advanced materials with outstanding thermal, mechanical, and electromagnetic properties. When the grains' morphology is displayed at the nanoscopic scale, the presence of imperfect interfaces plays a central role in determining the effective transport properties. Therefore, we develop here a self-consistent effective medium theory able to evaluate the influence of real contacts between the different phases of multigrained composite materials. This approach takes into account the classical interface schemes that have been introduced in literature, namely, the low and the high conducting interface models. The theoretical results have been compared with numerical and experimental data concerning the thermal conductivity of (1−x)Si:xGe mixtures and the electrical conductivity of (1−x)Li2O:xB2O3 composites.
Li(Zn,Co,Mn)As: A bulk form diluted magnetic semiconductor with Co and Mn co-doping at Zn sites
Authors: Chen Bijuan , Deng Zheng , Li Wenmin , Gao Moran , Zhao Jianfa , Zhao Guoqiang , Yu Shuang , Wang Xiancheng , Liu Qingqing , Jin Changqing
Published: November 2016

We report the synthesis and characterization of a series of bulk forms of diluted magnetic semiconductors Li(Zn1-x-yCoxMny)As with a crystal structure close to that of III-V diluted magnetic semiconductor (Ga,Mn)As. No ferromagnetic order occurs with single (Zn,Co) or (Zn, Mn) substitution in the parent compound LiZnAs. Only with co-doped Co and Mn ferromagnetic ordering can occur at the Curie temperature ∼40 K. The maximum saturation moment of the this system reached to 2.17μB/Mn, which is comparable to that of Li (Zn,Mn)As. It is the first time that a diluted magnetic semiconductor with co-doping Co and Mn into Zn sites is achieved in “111” LiZnAs system, which could be utilized to investigate the basic science of ferromagnetism in diluted magnetic semiconductors. In addition, ferromagnetic Li(Zn,Co,Mn)As, antiferromagnetic LiMnAs, and superconducting LiFeAs share square lattice at As layers, which may enable the development of novel heterojunction devices in the future.
Coordination vs. voluntarism and enforcement in sustaining international environmental cooperation
Authors: Barrett Scott
Published: November 2016

The fates of “transboundary” environmental systems depend on how nation states interact with one another. In the absence of a hegemon willing and able to coerce other states into avoiding a “tragedy of the commons,” shared environments will be safeguarded if international cooperation succeeds and degraded or even destroyed if it fails. Treaties and related institutions of international law give form to these efforts to cooperate. Often, they implore states to act in their collective (as opposed to their national) interests. Sometimes, they impel cooperating states to punish free riders. A few agreements coordinate states’ behavior. Here, I present simple game-theoretic models showing whether and how treaties and related institutions can change incentives, aligning states’ self-interests with their collective interests. I show that, as a general matter, states struggle to cooperate voluntarily and enforce agreements to cooperate but that they find it relatively easy to coordinate actions. In some cases, the need for coordination is manifest. In other cases, it requires strategic thinking. Coordination may fall short of supporting an ideal outcome, but it nearly always works better than the alternatives.
Supercritical entanglement in local systems: Counterexample to the area law for quantum matter
Authors: Movassagh Ramis , Shor Peter W.
Published: November 2016

Significance

We introduce a class of exactly solvable models with surprising properties. We show that even simple quantum matter is much more entangled than previously believed possible. One then expects more complex systems to be substantially more entangled. For over two decades it was believed that the area law is violated by at most a logarithm in the system’s size for quantum matter (i.e., interactions satisfying physical reasonability criteria clearly stated in the article). In this work we introduce a class of physically reasonable models that we can prove violate the area law by a square root, i.e., exponentially more than the logarithm.
Siderophore-based immunization strategy to inhibit growth of enteric pathogens
Authors: Sassone-Corsi Martina , Chairatana Phoom , Zheng Tengfei , Perez-Lopez Araceli , Edwards Robert A. , George Michael D. , Nolan Elizabeth M. , Raffatellu Manuela
Published: November 2016

Significance

Gram-negative pathogens represent a major public health issue. With increases in antibiotic resistance and the limited availability of preventive strategies, new ways are needed to target these bacteria. Here, we propose a narrow-spectrum immunization strategy to block the ability of a gastrointestinal pathogen to acquire the essential metal nutrient iron. This approach involves the chemical synthesis of bacterial iron chelators, known as siderophores, and their conjugation to immunogenic carrier proteins. Mice immunized with these compounds developed antibodies against siderophores in the intestine, which hindered proliferation of the gut pathogen
Salmonella
. Because similar but distinct molecules are secreted by many bacterial and fungal pathogens, this synthesis and immunization strategy could be applied to a broad range of infectious agents.
Siderophore vaccine conjugates protect against uropathogenicEscherichia coliurinary tract infection
Authors: Mike Laura A. , Smith Sara N. , Sumner Christopher A. , Eaton Kathryn A. , Mobley Harry L. T.
Published: November 2016

Significance

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are primarily caused by uropathogenicEscherichia coli(UPEC), and 1 in 40 women experience chronic UTIs during their lifetime. The antibiotic courses required to treat infections promote antibiotic resistance, and current vaccine options offer limited protection. We have pioneered a strategy using small iron-chelating compounds called siderophores as vaccine antigens. These siderophores are not produced by commensal bacteria and are required for UTI. The siderophore vaccines reported here are easy to formulate and reduce bacterial burdens in a murine model of UTI. This report highlights the untapped resource of bacteria-specific small molecules as potential vaccine antigens and provides a proof of principle for incorporating these compounds into multicomponent vaccines for the prevention of bacterial infections.
IL-33/ST2 signaling excites sensory neurons and mediates itch response in a mouse model of poison ivy contact allergy
Authors: Liu Boyi , Tai Yan , Achanta Satyanarayana , Kaelberer Melanie M. , Caceres Ana I. , Shao Xiaomei , Fang Jianqiao , Jordt Sven-Eric
Published: November 2016

Significance

In the United States, the most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is contact with poison ivy. Severe itch and skin inflammation are the major manifestations of poison ivy-induced ACD. In this study, we have established a critical role of IL-33/ST2 (interleukin 33/growth stimulation expressed gene 2) signaling in both itch and skin inflammation of poison ivy-induced ACD and revealed a previously unidentified interaction of IL-33/ST2 signaling with primary sensory neurons that may underlie the pruritic mechanisms of poison ivy-induced ACD. Blocking IL-33/ST2 signaling may represent a therapeutic approach to ameliorate itch and skin inflammation related to poison ivy dermatitis and, possibly, other chronic itch conditions in which IL-33/ST2 signaling may participate.
Ultrahigh-throughput–directed enzyme evolution by absorbance-activated droplet sorting (AADS)
Authors: Gielen Fabrice , Hours Raphaelle , Emond Stephane , Fischlechner Martin , Schell Ursula , Hollfelder Florian
Published: November 2016

Significance

Directed enzyme evolution is a powerful approach for discovering new catalysts with applications in green chemistry and elsewhere. However, “hits” in sequence space are rare: If too few members of a library are examined, the chances of success of a campaign are limited. Ultrahigh-throughput screening in emulsion droplets has dramatically increased the odds but requires a fluorescent reaction product that triggers selection of hits. We now introduce an absorbance-based microfluidic droplet sorter that broadens the scope of assays to those producing UV/Vis-active chromophores and demonstrate its usefulness by evolving a dehydrogenase based on the screening of half a million library members. Making ultrahigh-throughput screening possible for previously inaccessible reactions enables much wider use of microfluidic droplet sorters for laboratory evolution.
Accelerated search for BaTiO
3
-based piezoelectrics with vertical morphotropic phase boundary using Bayesian learning
Authors: Xue Dezhen , Balachandran Prasanna V. , Yuan Ruihao , Hu Tao , Qian Xiaoning , Dougherty Edward R. , Lookman Turab
Published: November 2016

Significance

Learning from data to accelerate the discovery of new materials is an outstanding challenge in materials science. However, in addition to data, a distinguishing aspect of materials science is that there exists a substantial body of knowledge in the form of phenomenological models and physical theories. We combine informatics and materials knowledge using results from Landau–Devonshire theory to guide experiments in the design of lead-free piezoelectrics with desired properties.
Selective nucleolus organizer inactivation in
Arabidopsis
is a chromosome position-effect phenomenon
Authors: Mohannath Gireesha , Pontvianne Frederic , Pikaard Craig S.
Published: November 2016

Significance

For decades, rRNA genes have been known to be differentially regulated during growth and development, with some genes being expressed and other genes being inactive. However, rRNA genes are so similar in sequence that the basis for choosing among them to differentially express some, but not others, has long been a puzzle. This study demonstrates that entire clusters of rRNA genes, known as nucleolus organizer regions, are silenced based on the chromosome on which they reside.
Role of sulfiredoxin as a peroxiredoxin-2 denitrosylase in human iPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons
Authors: Sunico Carmen R. , Sultan Abdullah , Nakamura Tomohiro , Dolatabadi Nima , Parker James , Shan Bing , Han Xuemei , Yates John R. , Masliah Eliezer , Ambasudhan Rajesh , Nakanishi Nobuki , Lipton Stuart A.
Published: November 2016

Significance

S
-nitrosylation, addition of an NO group to a cysteine thiol, can regulate protein activity. Aberrant protein
S
-nitrosylation, however, can disrupt normal enzyme function, as is the case for
S
-nitrosylated peroxiredoxin (SNO-Prx), which would otherwise catabolize toxic peroxides that occur under neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. Here, we describe a paradigm of
N
-phosphorylation–mediated denitrosylation by the enzyme sulfiredoxin that removes NO from Prx. The findings are at the center of redox control of the cell, explaining reactivation by sulfiredoxin of both Prx-SO
2
H and SNO-Prx and thus describe a master regulator of redox reactions that combats nitrosative and oxidative stress in cells. These results suggest that sulfiredoxin may be an important target for therapeutic intervention in neurodegenerative disorders.
C-terminal domain of mammalian complexin-1 localizes to highly curved membranes
Authors: Gong Jihong , Lai Ying , Li Xiaohong , Wang Mengxian , Leitz Jeremy , Hu Yachong , Zhang Yunxiang , Choi Ucheor B. , Cipriano Daniel , Pfuetzner Richard A. , Südhof Thomas C. , Yang Xiaofei , Brunger Axel T. , Diao Jiajie
Published: November 2016

Significance

The central nervous system utilizes Ca
2+
-triggered synaptic vesicle fusion mediated by SNAREs and other synaptic proteins for neurotransmitter release into the synaptic cleft. Complexin, a small cytosolic protein, plays a dual role in regulating spontaneous minirelease and in activating Ca
2+
-triggered fusion, but the molecular mechanisms are still unclear. Here we found that the C-terminal domain of mammalian complexin interacts with membranes in a curvature-dependent fashion similar to other curvature-sensing proteins, such as α-synuclein. Together with a previous study of worm complexin, this finding suggests that curvature-sensing of the C-terminal domain is evolutionarily conserved. Moreover, localization to the highly curved membrane of synaptic vesicles is important for regulating spontaneous release by complexin.
Rapid conversion of an oceanic spreading center to a subduction zone inferred from high-precision geochronology
Authors: Keenan Timothy E. , Encarnación John , Buchwaldt Robert , Fernandez Dan , Mattinson James , Rasoazanamparany Christine , Luetkemeyer P. Benjamin
Published: November 2016

Significance

Subduction, the process by which tectonic plates sink into the mantle, is a fundamental tectonic process on Earth, yet the question of where and how new subduction zones form remains a matter of debate. In this study, we find that a divergent plate boundary, where two plates move apart, was forcefully and rapidly turned into a convergent boundary where one plate eventually began subducting. This finding is surprising because, although the plate material at a divergent boundary is weak, it is also buoyant and resists subduction. This study suggests that buoyant, but weak, plate material at a divergent boundary can be forced to converge until eventually older and denser plate material enters the nascent subduction zone, which then becomes self-sustaining.
ADiaphanous-related formin links Ras signaling directly to actin assembly in macropinocytosis and phagocytosis
Authors: Junemann Alexander , Filić Vedrana , Winterhoff Moritz , Nordholz Benjamin , Litschko Christof , Schwellenbach Helena , Stephan Till , Weber Igor , Faix Jan
Published: November 2016

Significance

Macropinocytosis and phagocytosis are two Ras-regulated, highly related processes of great physiological relevance collectively termed large-scale endocytosis. Both are actin-driven and entail engulfment of extracellular material by crown-like protrusions. Aside from the Arp2/3 complex, which serves as the main nucleator of branched actin filaments at the cup rim, the underlying mechanisms of actin assembly still remain elusive. Here, we analyzed the role ofDiaphanous-related formin G (ForG) fromDictyosteliumby biochemical, genetic, and imaging techniques. Our data demonstrate that this formin exhibits a rather weak nucleation activity and imply that ForG-mediated filament elongation synergizes with the Arp2/3 complex in actin assembly. Finally, we identify ForG as a Ras-regulated formin and show its significance for actin assembly in endocytic structures.
Spatial variability in tree regeneration after wildfire delays and dampens future bark beetle outbreaks
Authors: Seidl Rupert , Donato Daniel C. , Raffa Kenneth F. , Turner Monica G.
Published: November 2016

Significance

Wildfires have increased in western North America, creating extensive areas of regenerating forests. There is concern that recent large, stand-replacing fires will synchronize forest development and commit landscapes to a future of increased disturbance, such as bark beetle outbreaks that require extensive, well-connected forests of large host trees. We analyzed forest development after large high-severity 1988 fires in Yellowstone National Park to assess future susceptibility to bark beetle outbreak. Although stands originated from the same event, persistent variation in postfire tree density and size protracted the onset of susceptibility to bark beetle attack among stands. Furthermore, postfire variability delayed emergence of the habitat connectivity required for broad-scale outbreaks, suggesting spatial variability is an important dampening mechanism for disturbance interactions.
Autobiographical memory, future imagining, and the medial temporal lobe
Authors: Dede Adam J. O. , Wixted John T. , Hopkins Ramona O. , Squire Larry R.
Published: November 2016

Significance

We explored the role of the medial temporal lobe (MTL) in autobiographical remembering and future imagining. Patients with MTL damage and controls produced narratives in four time periods (past and future). Findings showed that anterograde amnesia (forgetfulness) can interfere with narrative construction. Under conditions that minimized the effect of anterograde amnesia, patients produced as many details as controls in five different content categories (spatial and nonspatial) and in all time periods except the recent past. The results suggest that remembering the remote past and imagining the future are independent of the MTL. Comparisons among studies suggest that differences in performance likely depend on differences in the locus and extent of brain damage.
One low-dose exposure of gold nanoparticles induces long-term changes in human cells
Authors: Falagan-Lotsch Priscila , Grzincic Elissa M. , Murphy Catherine J.
Published: November 2016

Significance

Gold nanoparticles are promising candidates for optical sensing, bioimaging, delivery, and therapeutic applications due to their size- and shape-dependent physical properties and inherent biocompatibility compared with other metallic nanoparticles. Many studies have found that these particles are generally nontoxic at low doses for most, but not all, initial surface treatments. In this study, a long-term (20 wk) exposure of a set of gold nanoparticles to a human cell line was performed in two ways: an acute burst of nanoparticle exposure compared with a continuous, chronic exposure at the same concentration. Overall, it was found that an acute burst of exposure is more harmful to cells, and that cells can adapt to long-term nanoparticle exposure.
Integrin-mediated mechanotransduction
Authors: Sun Zhiqi , Guo Shengzhen S. , Fässler Reinhard
Published: November 2016

Cells can detect and react to the biophysical properties of the extracellular environment through integrin-based adhesion sites and adapt to the extracellular milieu in a process called mechanotransduction. At these adhesion sites, integrins connect the extracellular matrix (ECM) with the F-actin cytoskeleton and transduce mechanical forces generated by the actin retrograde flow and myosin II to the ECM through mechanosensitive focal adhesion proteins that are collectively termed the “molecular clutch.” The transmission of forces across integrin-based adhesions establishes a mechanical reciprocity between the viscoelasticity of the ECM and the cellular tension. During mechanotransduction, force allosterically alters the functions of mechanosensitive proteins within adhesions to elicit biochemical signals that regulate both rapid responses in cellular mechanics and long-term changes in gene expression. Integrin-mediated mechanotransduction plays important roles in development and tissue homeostasis, and its dysregulation is often associated with diseases.
Key comparison BIPM.RI(I)-K5 of the air kerma standards of the VSL and the BIPM in 137Cs gamma radiation
Authors: Kessler C , Burns D T , Jansen B J , Pooter J A de
Published: November 2016

A direct comparison of the standards for air kerma of the VSL, Netherlands, and of the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) was carried out in the 137Cs radiation beam of the BIPM in April 2016. The comparison result, evaluated as a ratio of the VSL and the BIPM standards for air kerma, is 0.9952 with a combined standard uncertainty of 3.8 × 10-3. The results for an indirect comparison made at the same time are consistent with the direct results at the level of 1 part in 104. The results are analysed and presented in terms of degrees of equivalence, suitable for entry in the BIPM key comparison database.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCRI, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Improving flux predictions by integrating data from multiple strains
Authors: Long Matthew R , Reed Jennifer L
Published: November 2016

Motivation

Incorporating experimental data into constraint-based models can improve the quality and accuracy of their metabolic flux predictions. Unfortunately, routinely and easily measured experimental data such as growth rates, extracellular fluxes, transcriptomics and even proteomics are not always sufficient to significantly improve metabolic flux predictions.

Results

We developed a new method (called REPPS) for incorporating experimental measurements of growth rates and extracellular fluxes from a set of perturbed reference strains (RSs) and a parental strain (PS) to substantially improve the predicted flux distribution of the parental strain. Using data from five single gene knockouts and the wild type strain, we decrease the mean squared error of predicted central metabolic fluxes by ∼47% compared to parsimonious flux balance analysis (pFBA). This decrease in error further improves flux predictions for new knockout strains. Furthermore, REPPS is less sensitive to the completeness of the metabolic network than pFBA.

Availability and Implementation

Code is available in the Supplementary data available at Bioinformatics online.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Deep carbon cycles constrained by a large-scale mantle Mg isotope anomaly in eastern China
Authors: Li Shu-Guang , Yang Wei , Ke Shan , Meng Xunan , Tian Hengci , Xu Lijuan , He Yongsheng , Huang Jian , Wang Xuan-Ce , Xia Qunke , Sun Weidong , Yang Xiaoyong , Ren Zhong-Yuan , Wei Haiquan , Liu Yongsheng , Meng Fancong , Yan Jun
Published: November 2016

Although deep carbon recycling plays an important role in the atmospheric CO2 budget and climate changes through geological time, the precise mechanisms remain poorly understood. Since recycled sedimentary carbonate through plate subduction is the main light-δ26Mg reservoir within deep-Earth, Mg isotope variation in mantle-derived melts provides a novel perspective when investigating deep carbon cycling. Here, we show that the Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic continental basalts from 13 regions covering the whole of eastern China have low δ26Mg isotopic compositions, while the Early Cretaceous basalts from the same area and the island arc basalts from circum-Pacific subduction zones have mantle-like or heavy Mg isotopic characteristics. Thus, a large-scale mantle low δ26Mg anomaly in eastern China has been delineated, suggesting the contribution of sedimentary carbonates recycled into the upper mantle, but limited into the lower mantle. This large-scale spatial and temporal variation of Mg isotopes in the mantle places severe constraints on deep carbon recycling via oceanic subduction.
Prevalence, Indications, Risk Indicators, and Outcomes of Emergency Peripartum Hysterectomy Worldwide
Authors: van den Akker Thomas , Brobbel Carolien , Dekkers Olaf M. , Bloemenkamp Kitty W. M.
Published: November 2016

OBJECTIVE:

To compare prevalence, indications, risk indicators, and outcomes of emergency peripartum hysterectomy across income settings.

DATA SOURCES:

PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Library databases up to March 30, 2015.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

Studies including emergency peripartum hysterectomies performed within 6 weeks postpartum. Not eligible were comments, case reports, elective hysterectomies for associated gynecologic conditions, studies with fewer than 10 inclusions, and those reporting only percentages published in languages other than English or before 1980. Interstudy heterogeneity was assessed by χ2test for heterogeneity; a random-effects model was applied wheneverI2exceeded 25%.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS:

One hundred twenty-eight studies were selected, including 7,858 women who underwent emergency peripartum hysterectomy, of whom 87% were multiparous. Hysterectomy complicated almost 1 per 1,000 deliveries (range 0.2–10.1). Prevalence differed between poorer (low and lower middle income) and richer (upper middle and high income) settings: 2.8 compared with 0.7 per 1,000 deliveries, respectively (relative risk 4.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.0–4.5). Most common indications were placental pathology (38%), uterine atony (27%), and uterine rupture (26%). Risk indicators included cesarean delivery in the current pregnancy (odds ratio [OR] 11.38, 95% CI 9.28–13.97), previous cesarean delivery (OR 7.5, 95% CI 5.1–11.0), older age (mean difference 6.6 years between women in the case group and those in the control group, 95% CI 4.4–8.9), and higher parity (mean difference 1.4, 95% CI 0.7–2.2). Having attended antenatal care was protective (OR 0.12, 95% CI 0.06–0.25). Only 3% had accessed arterial embolization to prevent hysterectomy. Average blood loss was 3.7 L. Mortality was 5.2 per 100 hysterectomies (reported range 0–59.1) and higher in poorer settings: 11.9 compared with 2.5 per 100 hysterectomies (relative risk 4.8, 95% CI 3.9–5.9).

CONCLUSION:

Emergency peripartum hysterectomy is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality and is more frequent in lower-income countries, where it contains a higher risk of mortality. A (previous) cesarean delivery is associated with a higher risk of emergency peripartum hysterectomy.
Palliative Care in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Authors: Lefkowits Carolyn , Solomon Caroline
Published: November 2016

Palliative care is specialized care for people with life-limiting illness; it focuses on symptom management and quality of life and ensures that a patient's care is concordant with her goals and values. Unlike end-of-life care, palliative care can be offered concurrently with disease-directed therapies, including when the goal is cure. Obstetrics and gynecology patients for whom palliative care is most appropriate include women with gynecologic cancer and women with a fetus or neonate with a potentially life-limiting illness. Integration of palliative care for these patients offers both clinical and health care utilization benefits, including improved symptom management, improved quality of life, and high-value care. Palliative care can be provided by palliative care specialists (specialty palliative care) or by the team treating the life-limiting illness (primary palliative care), depending on the complexity of the need. Health care providers caring for patients with life-limiting illness, including obstetrician–gynecologists, must possess a basic primary palliative care skill set, including symptom management for common symptoms such as pain and nausea and communication skills such as breaking bad news. This skill set must be taught and evaluated during training and used consistently in practice to ensure that our patients receive truly comprehensive care.
Enterovaginal or Vesicovaginal Fistula Control Using a Silicone Cup
Authors: Russell Katie W. , Robinson Ryan E. , Mone Mary C. , Scaife Courtney L.
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND:

An enterovaginal or vesicovaginal fistula is a complication resulting in vaginal discharge of succus, urine, or stool that can lead to significant complications. For low-volume fistulae, tampons or pads may be used. With high-volume fistulae, frequent product change can be painful and unpredictable in terms of efficacy. The psychologic distress is profound. Surgery may not be an option, making symptom control the priority.

INSTRUMENT:

We report the use of a reusable menstrual silicone vaginal cup placed to divert and contain drainage.

EXPERIENCE:

The menstrual cup provided significant symptom relief. Drainage is immediately diverted from tissue, unlike with tampon or pad use, which involves longer contact periods with caustic fluids. A system was created by adapting the end of the cup by adding silastic tubing and an external leg bag to provide long-term drainage control.

CONCLUSION:

Improvement in quality of life is of primary importance when dealing with fistula drainage. This simple and inexpensive device should be considered in those cases in which the drainage can be diverted as a viable option, especially in those who are symptomatic and awaiting surgical repair or in those for whom surgery cannot be performed.
Obesity and Tobacco Cessation Toolkits
Authors: Crowe Susan D. , Gregg Laurie C. , DeFrancesco Mark S.
Published: November 2016

Both obesity and smoking are public health burdens that together contribute to approximately one third of the deaths annually in the United States. In 2015, under the direction of Dr. Mark DeFrancesco, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists convened two workgroups with the purpose of creating toolkits that bring together information that the obstetrician–gynecologist can use to address these preventable health problems. An Obesity Prevention and Treatment Workgroup and a Tobacco and Nicotine Cessation Workgroup developed toolkits on Obesity Prevention and Treatment (www.acog.org/ObesityToolkit) and Tobacco and Nicotine Cessation (
www.acog.org/TobaccoToolkit). The toolkits contain specific talking points, counseling methods, and algorithms to address these health concerns in a supportive, efficient, and effective manner. By including these methods in practice, clinicians can help prevent the tragedy of early deaths caused by obesity, tobacco, and nicotine use.