bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective field theory for dark matter direct detection up to dimension seven
Authors: Brod Joachim , Gootjes-Dreesbach Aaron , Tammaro Michele , Zupan Jure
Published: October 2018

Abstract

We present the full basis of effective operators relevant for dark matter direct detection, up to and including operators of mass dimension seven. We treat the cases where dark matter is either a Dirac fermion, a Majorana fermion, a complex scalar, or a real scalar, allowing for dark matter to furnish a general representation of the electroweak gauge group. We describe the algorithmic procedure used to obtain the minimal set of effective operators and provide the tree-level matching conditions onto the effective theory valid below the electroweak scale.
Susy Q and spatially modulated deformations of ABJM theory
Authors: Gauntlett Jerome P. , Rosen Christopher
Published: October 2018

Abstract

Within a holographic framework we construct supersymmetric Q-lattice (‘Susy Q’) solutions that describe RG flows driven by supersymmetric and spatially modulated deformations of the dual CFTs. We focus on a specificD= 4 supergravity model which arises as a consistent KK truncation ofD= 11 supergravity on the seven sphere that preserves SO(4) × SO(4) symmetry. The Susy Q solutions are dual to boomerang RG flows, flowing from ABJM theory in the UV, deformed by spatially modulated mass terms depending on one of the spatial directions, back to the ABJM vacuum in the far IR. For large enough deformations the boomerang flows approach the well known Poincaré invariant RG dielectric flow. The spatially averaged energy density vanishes for the Susy Q solutions.
Case report in experience with neovaginal reconstruction using the inverted Y flap in Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome and androgen insensitive syndrome: A pilot study
Authors: Soedjana Hardisiswo , Hasibuan Lisa Y. , Septiani Galuh A. , Davita Theresia Risa
Published: October 2018

ABSTRACT

Background:

The surgical management of Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome and androgen insensitive syndrome with vaginal agenesis requires the reconstruction of a neovaginal cavity that is dissected between the bladder and the rectum. The author prefers to use Y flap procedure to construct a neovagina with epithelial lining. The resulting length of the neovaginal cavity that was dissected during the surgery was maintained.

Objective:

This study aims to describe the use of inverted Y flap technique from the skin surrounding the agenesis vagina to reconstruct the neovagina.

Methods:

This was a five-year prospective cohort study at our plastic surgery center in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia since January 2008. All patients underwent neovaginal reconstruction using the inverted Y flap were monitored and followed up.

Results:

Four patients with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome and one patient with androgen insensitive syndrome underwent neovaginal reconstruction using this method. The follow-up period ranged from two-week until one-year post-surgery. The surgical procedure was performed without major complications. There were no neovaginal stricture or contracture occur in any of the patients and zero pain in intercourse activity after the procedure.

Highlights:
Computational modeling and functional characterization of a GgChi: A class III chitinase from corms of Gladiolus grandiflorus
Authors: Rafiq Maria , Hussain Ashiq , Shah Kausar Hussain , Saeed Qamar , Sial Muhammad Umair , Ali Zahid , Buck Friedrich , Goodman Richard E. , Khaliq Binish , Ishaq Uzma , Baig Mirza Ahsen , Munawar Aisha , Mahmood Seema , Akrem Ahmed
Published: October 2018

The present study describes the predicted model and functional characterization of an endochitinase (30 kDa) from corms of Gladiolus grandiflorus. ESI‐QTOF‐MS generated peptide showed 96% sequence homology with family 18, Class III acidic endochitinase of Gladiolus gandavensis. Purified G. grandiflorus chitinase (GgChi) hydrolyzed 4‐methylumbelliferyl β‐d‐N,N′,N′′‐triacetylchitotriose substrate showing specific endochitinase activity. Since no structural details of GgChi were available in the Protein Data Bank (PDB), a homology model was predicted using the coordinate information of Crocus vernus chitinase (PDB ID: 3SIM). Ramachandran plot indicated 84.5% in most favored region, 14.8% in additional and 0.6% in generously allowed region while no residue in disallowed region. The predicted structure indicated a highly conserved (β/α)8 (TIM barrel) structure similar to the family 18, class III chitinases. The GgChi also showed sequence and structural homologies with other active chitinases. The GgChi (50 μg/disc) showed no antibacterial activity, but did provide mild growth inhibition of phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum at a concentration of 500 μg/well Similarly, insect toxicity bioassays of GgChi (50 μg) against nymphs of Bemisia tabaci showed 14% reduction in adult emergence and 14% increase in mortality rate in comparison to control values. The GgChi (1.5 mg) protein showed significant reduction in a population of flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) after 35 days, but lower reactivity against rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae). The results of this study provide detai.led insight on functional characterization of a family 18 class III acidic plant endochitinase.
Ezra Pound: The Cantos
Authors: Kearns George
Published: October 2018

Pound's 800 page Cantos, written over a period of more than fifty years (1917–1969), invites the reader to join the poet on a journey from darkness and despair towards light and positive activity. In this book, George Kearns addresses the reader approaching The Cantos for the first time. He examines the poem's aesthetic and political-ethical-didactic dimensions and shows that despite its complexity and the many objections which can be raised to its poetics and politics, its study can be greatly rewarding.
An implicit hybrid method for the computation of rotorcraft flows
Authors: Woodgate M. A. , Barakos G. N.
Published: October 2018

There is a wide variety of CFD grid types including Cartesian, structured, unstructured and hybrids, as well as, numerous methodologies of combining these to reduce the time required to generate high-quality grids around complex configurations. If the grid methodologies were implemented in different codes, they should be written in such a way as to obtain the maximum performance from the available computer resources. A common interface should also be required to allow for ease of use. However, it is very time consuming to develop, maintain and add extra functionally to different codes. This paper examines the possibility of taking an existing CFD solver, the Helicopter Multi-Block (HMB) CFD method, and implementing a new grid type while reusing as much as possible the original code base. The paper presents some of the challenges encountered in extending the code which was written for a single mesh type, to a more flexible solver that is still computationally efficient but can cope with a variety of grid types.
Research Priorities for Optimizing Long-term Community Integration after Brain Injury
Authors: Nalder Emily J. , Zabjek Karl , Dawson Deirdre R. , Bottari Carolina L. , Gagnon Isabelle , McFadyen Bradford J. , Hunt Anne W. , McKenna Suzanne , Ouellet Marie-Christine , Giroux Sylvain , Cullen Nora , Niechwiej-Szwedo Ewa ,   ONF-REPAR ABI Team
Published: October 2018

Objective

This paper reports on a funded summit, which convened a multidisciplinary group of experts to provide consensus on the research priorities necessary for improving long-term community integration of individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and their caregivers.

Methods

The 2-day summit was directed using the World Café Methodology, to engage stakeholders and collaboratively arrive at a consensus on the problems to be targeted in research. Participants (n=54), drawn from two Canadian provinces, included an interdisciplinary group of researchers, clinicians, representatives from brain injury associations, individuals with TBI, and caregivers. In small groups, participants discussed challenges to long-term community integration and potential initiatives that would address these barriers. Field notes from the discussions were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

The consensus on prioritized research directions included developing interventions to optimize the functioning and participation of individuals with TBI, reducing caregiver burden, and evaluating how emerging technology can facilitate delivery of care.

Conclusions

The World Café Methodology was an effective method for developing research priorities. The breadth of expertise of participants and the collegial environment allowed for the identification of a broad perspective on important future research directions with potential to enhance the long-term community integration of individuals with brain injury.
A Criminological Perspective on Recruitment of Men and Women to Daesh
Authors: Sarnecki Jerzy
Published: October 2018

Criminological research usually directs its focus at traditional forms of offending. The purpose of this article is to discuss the extent to which traditional criminological theories can be used to understand a modern form of terrorism. The main issue to explain is why young men and women from a Western European country, such as Sweden, are joining Daesh in Iraq and Syria. The conclusion is that many criminology theories are useful to analyse the factors behind the affiliation to Daesh. The majority of those recruited into this organization have in many respects a similar background to individuals recruited to other forms of serious organized violent crimes. It should be noted that many of the theories discussed in the paper are more relevant for the understanding of why men join Daesh. When it comes to the recruitment of women these theories’ explanatory value is more limited. However, this applies also to these theories’ ability to explain female crime in general.
Parents' use of harsh punishment and young children's behaviour and achievement: a longitudinal study of Jamaican children with conduct problems
Authors: Baker-Henningham H. , Francis T.
Published: October 2018

Introduction.

Harsh punishment by parents is common in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), yet there is limited evidence from LMIC of the effects of harsh punishment on child outcomes.

Methods.

A longitudinal, prospective study was conducted with children with conduct problems to examine the associations between parents’ use of harsh punishment during the preschool years on child behaviour and school achievement in grade one of primary school. As part of an efficacy trial in 24 preschools, 225 children with the highest level of teacher-reported conduct problems were evaluated and their parents reported on how often they used harsh punishment. Outcome measures in grade one included child conduct problems by independent observation, teacher and parent report, child social skills by teacher and parent report, direct tests of children's academic achievement and language skills, and tester ratings of child attention and impulse control.

Results.

Children had a mean age of 6.92 years and 61% were boys. All parents reported using harsh punishment. After controlling for child age and sex, socio-economic status, parents’ involvement with child and maternal education, frequency of harsh punishment was associated with growth in child conduct problems by independent classroom observations (p  =  0.037), parent (p  =  0.018) and teacher (p  =  0.044) report, a reduction in child social skills by teacher (p  =  0.024) and parent (p  =  0.014) report and poorer attention during the test session (p  =  0.049).

Conclusion.

The associations between frequency of parents’ use of harsh punishment with their preschoolers with conduct problems and later child behaviour indicate a need to train parents in non-violent behaviour management.
Service Learning: The Peace Corps, American Higher Education, and the Limits of Modernist Ideas of Development and Citizenship
Authors: Busch David S.
Published: October 2018

In the early 1960s, Peace Corps staff turned to American colleges and universities to prepare young Americans for volunteer service abroad. In doing so, the agency applied the university's modernist conceptions of citizenship education to volunteer training. The training staff and volunteers quickly discovered, however, that prevailing methods of education in the university were ineffective for community-development work abroad. As a result, the agency evolved its own pedagogical practices and helped shape early ideas of service learning in American higher education. The Peace Corps staff and supporters nonetheless maintained the assumptions of development and modernist citizenship, setting limits on the broader visions of education emerging out of international volunteerism in the 1960s. The history of the Peace Corps training in the 1960s and the agency's efforts to rethink training approaches offer a window onto the underlying tensions of citizenship education in the modern university.
Nonlinear travelling internal waves with piecewise-linear shear profiles
Authors: Oliveras K. L. , Curtis C. W.
Published: October 2018

In this work, we study the nonlinear travelling waves in density stratified fluids with piecewise-linear shear currents. Beginning with the formulation of the water-wave problem due to Ablowitz et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 562, 2006, pp. 313–343), we extend the work of Ashton & Fokas (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 689, 2011, pp. 129–148) and Haut & Ablowitz (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 631, 2009, pp. 375–396) to examine the interface between two fluids of differing densities and varying linear shear. We derive a systems of equations depending only on variables at the interface, and numerically solve for periodic travelling wave solutions using numerical continuation. Here, we consider only branches which bifurcate from solutions where there is no slip in the tangential velocity at the interface for the trivial flow. The spectral stability of these solutions is then determined using a numerical Fourier–Floquet technique. We find that the strength of the linear shear in each fluid impacts the stability of the corresponding travelling wave solutions. Specifically, opposing shears may amplify or suppress instabilities.
Molecular gas dynamics analysis on condensation coefficient of vapour during gas–vapour bubble collapse
Authors: Kobayashi Kazumichi , Nagayama Takahiro , Watanabe Masao , Fujii Hiroyuki , Kon Misaki
Published: October 2018

This study investigates the influence of the condensation coefficient of vapour on the collapse of a bubble composed of condensable gas (vapour) and non-condensable gas (NC gas). We simulated vapour and NC gas flow inside a bubble based on the molecular gas dynamics analysis in order to replicate the phase change (viz., evaporation and condensation) precisely, by changing the initial number density ratio of the NC gas and vapour, the initial bubble radius and the value of the condensation coefficient. The results show that the motion of the bubble is unaffected by the value of the condensation coefficient when that value is larger than approximately 0.4. We also discuss NC gas drift at the bubble wall during the final stage of the bubble collapse and its influence on the condensation coefficient. We conclude that vapour molecules can behave as NC gas molecules when the bubble collapses, owing to the large concentration of NC gas molecules at the gas–liquid interface. That is, the condensation coefficient reaches almost zero when the bubble collapses violently.
Low-frequency unsteadiness of swept shock-wave/turbulent-boundary-layer interaction
Authors: Huang Xin , Estruch-Samper David
Published: October 2018

High-speed turbulent boundary-layer separation can lead to severe wall-pressure fluctuations, often extending over a swept shock region. Having noted the shear layer’s influence within axisymmetric step flows, tests go on to experimentally assess the unsteadiness of a canonical swept separation, caused by a slanted $90^{\circ }$-step discontinuity (with varying azimuthal height) over an axisymmetric turbulent boundary layer. Results document an increase in shock pulsation frequency along the swept separation region ($\unicode[STIX]{x1D6EC}\leqslant 30^{\circ }$ sweep angles) – whereby the recirculation enables downstream feedback via the reverse flow – as the local streamwise separation length is reduced. A link between the spanwise variation in the separation shock’s low-frequency instability and the downstream mass ejection rate, as large shear-layer eddies leave the bubble, is sustained. The local entrainment-recharge dynamics of swept separation are thereby duly evaluated.
Genetic risk for schizophrenia is associated with substance use in emerging adulthood: an event-level polygenic prediction model
Authors: Mallard Travis T. , Harden K. Paige , Fromme Kim
Published: October 2018

Background

Emerging adulthood is a peak period of risk for alcohol and illicit drug use. Recent advances in psychiatric genetics suggest that the co-occurrence of substance use and psychopathology arises, in part, from a shared genetic etiology. We sought to extend this research by investigating the influence of genetic risk for schizophrenia on trajectories of four substance use behaviors as they occurred across emerging adulthood.

Method

Young adult participants of non-Hispanic European descent provided DNA samples and completed daily reports of substance use for 1 month per year across 4 years (N = 30 085 observations of N = 342 participants). A schizophrenia polygenic score was included in two-level hierarchical linear models designed to test associations between genetic risk for schizophrenia, participant age, and four substance use phenotypes.

Results

Participants with a greater schizophrenia polygenic score experienced greater age-related increases in the likelihood of using substances across emerging adulthood (p < 0.005). Additionally, our results suggest that the polygenic score was positively associated with participants’ overall likelihood to engage in illicit drug use but not alcohol-related substance use.

Conclusions

This study used a novel combination of polygenic prediction and intensive longitudinal methods to characterize the influence of genetic risk for schizophrenia on patterns of age-related change in substance use across emerging adulthood. Results suggest that genetic risk for schizophrenia has developmentally specific effects on substance use behaviors in a non-clinical population of young adults.
Opinion paper: poor response to treatment of depression in people in high occupational levels
Authors: Mandelli Laura , Serretti Alessandro , Porcelli Stefano , Souery Daniel , Mendlewicz Julien , Kasper Siegfried , Montgomery Stuart , Zohar Joseph
Published: October 2018

The working environment may have a significant effect on response to treatment of depression and this issue has not yet been sufficiently addressed in the scientific literature. There is evidence showing that being engaged in high-level positions can be an obstacle to the success of treatment. This article discusses the few evidence in the literature and some of the possible mechanisms involved. Specific personality attributes and difficulties in adapting to depression may delay access to care and may also reduce treatment compliance. The presence of stress in jobs that require high cognitive function and lack of social support may be elements that hinder the recovery process. Residual symptoms that impact on cognitive functions may undermine adherence to treatment and adversely affect the response. The implications of these issues are potentially relevant for clinical practice in the treatment of depression and for future research.
Affective and interpersonal psychopathic traits associated with reduced corpus callosum volume among male inmates – RETRACTED
Authors: Anderson Nathaniel E. , Maurer J. Michael , Nyalakanti Prashanth , Harenski Keith A. , Harenski Carla L. , Koenigs Michael R. , Decety Jean , Kiehl Kent A.
Published: October 2018

Background

Psychopathy is a personality disorder associated with severe emotional and interpersonal consequences and persistent antisocial behavior. Neurobiological models of psychopathy emphasize impairments in emotional processing, attention, and integration of information across large-scale neural networks in the brain. One of the largest integrative hubs in the brain is the corpus callosum (CC) – a large white matter structure that connects the two cerebral hemispheres.

Method

The current study examines CC volume, measured via Freesurfer parcellation, in a large sample (n = 495) of incarcerated men who were assessed for psychopathic traits using the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R).

Results

Psychopathy was associated with reduced volume across all five sub-regions of the CC. These relationships were primarily driven by the affective/interpersonal elements of psychopathy (PCL-R Factor 1), as no significant associations were found between the CC and the lifestyle/antisocial traits of psychopathy. The observed effects were not attributable to differences in substance use severity, age, IQ, or total brain volume.

Conclusions

These findings align with suggestions that core psychopathic traits may be fostered by reduced integrative capacity across large-scale networks in the brain.
Resilience, Agency and Coping with Hardship: Evidence from Europe during the Great Recession
Authors: DAGDEVIREN HULYA , DONOGHUE MATTHEW
Published: October 2018

This paper aims to contribute to the growing literature on resilience by focusing on coping with hardship during the Great Recession, drawing upon primary data gathered through household and key informant interviews in nine European countries. As the resilience approach highlights agency, the paper examines the nature of household responses to hardship during this period on the basis of the ‘structure-agency problem’. An important contribution of this paper is to identify different forms of agency and discuss their implications. More specifically, we conceptualise three different types of agency in coping with hardship: absorptive, adaptive and transformative. Analysis of the findings indicates that structural constraints remain prominent. Most coping mechanisms fall under the category of absorptive and adaptive agency characterised here as burden-bearing actions that ‘conform’ to changing circumstances rather than shaping those circumstances.
Measurement of runaway electron beam current in nanosecond-pulse discharges by a Faraday cup
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Liu Zehui , Qiu Jintao , Bai Han , Kong Fei , Shao Tao
Published: October 2018

Measurement of runaway electron beam (REB) is essential to investigate behavior of runaway electrons produced in nanosecond-pulse gas discharge. A Faraday cup is designed to measure the REB current in nanosecond-pulse discharge when the applied dV/dtis 75 kV/ns. The Faraday cup considers the impendence match with the oscilloscope and the design of the receiving part. The experimental results show that the measured REB current has a rise time of 348 ps and a full width at half maximum of 510 ps. The comparison of the measurement results by the Faraday cup and a REB collector confirm that the Faraday cup is able to measure REB current in nanosecond-pulse discharge. Furthermore, consecutive waveforms of the REB currents show stable results by using the designed Faraday cup. In addition, effects of the interelectrode gap, gas pressure, and cathode material on the REB current are investigated by the designed Faraday cup, and the measurement results provide characteristics of REB current under different conditions. The REB current decreases when the gap spacing or gas pressure increases. REB current increases with the cathode diameter. It indicates that the high-energy electrons are generated not only at the edge of the cathode but also on the side surface of the cathode.
Declining hepatitis E virus antibody prevalence in Phnom Penh, Cambodia during 1996–2017
Authors: Nouhin J. , Madec Y. , Prak S. , Ork M. , Kerleguer A. , Froehlich Y. , Pavio N. , Rouet F.
Published: October 2018

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is endemic in Cambodia. However, little relevant data were available and there is no clue if HEV is an emerging or decreasing pathogen in that setting. The aim of our study was to describe temporal trends of anti-HEV IgG and IgM prevalences during the last two decades (1996–2017) in the context of population growth and urbanisation in Cambodia. A total of 2004 human plasma samples collected between 1996 and 2017 were tested for anti-HEV IgG and IgM using the commercial Wantai anti-HEV assays. Overall, the prevalences of anti-HEV IgG and IgM were 41.1% and 2.7%, respectively. Analysis by calendar period showed a decreasing trend of anti-HEV IgG prevalence over the last 21 years. After age- and gender-standardisation, the anti-HEV IgG prevalence rates decreased from 61.3% during the 1996–2000 period to 32.3% during the 2016–2017 period, but no trends were observed for anti-HEV IgM rates, which fluctuated around the overall one. In conclusion, our results suggest that HEV is not an emerging pathogen, but rather seems to circulate less in Cambodia, in particular, in Phnom Penh, since the prevalence of anti-HEV IgG has been significantly decreased during the past two decades.
On the unification of classical, intuitionistic and affine logics
Authors: LIANG CHUCK
Published: October 2018

This article presents aunified logicthat combines classical logic, intuitionistic logic and affine linear logic (restricting contraction but not weakening). We show that this unification can be achieved semantically, syntactically and in the computational interpretation of proofs. It extends our previous work in combining classical and intuitionistic logics. Compared to linear logic, classical fragments of proofs are better isolated from non-classical fragments. We define a phase semantics for this logic that naturally extends the Kripke semantics of intuitionistic logic. We present a sequent calculus with novel structural rules, which entail a more elaborate procedure for cut elimination. Computationally, this system allows affine-linear interpretations of proofs to be combined with classical interpretations, such as the λμ calculus. We show how cut elimination must respect the boundaries between classical and non-classical modes of proof that correspond to delimited control effects.
Maternally inherited rRNA triggers de novo nucleolus formation in porcine embryos
Authors: Morovic Martin , Østrup Olga , Strejcek Frantisek , Benc Michal , Murin Matej , Jedlickova Katarina , Bartkova Alexandra , Lucas-Hahn Andrea , Pendovski Lazo , Laurincik Jozef
Published: October 2018

The present study examines the role of RNA polymerase I (RPI)-mediated transcription, maternally inherited rRNA and nucleolar proteins in the resumption of fibrillogranular nucleoli during embryonic genome activation (EGA) in porcine embryos. Late 4-cell embryos were incubated in the absence (control) or presence of actinomycin D (AD) (0.2 μg/ml for inhibition of RPI; 2.0 μg/ml for inhibition of total transcription) and late 2-cell embryos were cultured to the late 4-cell stage with 0.2 μg/ml AD to block EGA. Embryos were then processed for reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and for autoradiography (ARG), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), silver staining and immunofluorescence (for RPI). Embryos in the control group displayed extranucleolar and intranucleolar ARG labelling, and exhibited de novo synthesis of rRNA and reticulated functional nucleoli. Nucleolar proteins were located in large foci. After RPI inhibition, nucleolar precursors transformed into segregated fibrillogranular structures, however no fibrillar centres were observed. The localization of rDNA and clusters of rRNA were detected in 57.1% immunoprecipitated (IP) analyzed nucleoli and dispersed RPI; 30.5% of nuclei showed large deposits of nucleolar proteins. Embryos from the AD-2.0 group did not display any transcriptional activity. Nucleolar formation was completely blocked, however 39.4% of nuclei showed rRNA clusters; 85.7% of nuclei were co-localized with nucleolar proteins. Long-term transcriptional inhibition resulted in the lack of ARG and RPI labelling; 40% of analyzed nuclei displayed the accumulation of rRNA molecules into large foci. In conclusion, maternally inherited rRNA co-localized with rDNA and nucleolar proteins can initiate a partial nucleolar assembly, resulting in the formation of fibrilogranular structures independently on activation of RPI-mediated transcription.
Voluntary policies on checkout foods and healthfulness of foods displayed at, or near, supermarket checkout areas: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Lam Chi Ching Vivian , Ejlerskov Katrine T , White Martin , Adams Jean
Published: October 2018

Objective

To determine if voluntary policies on supermarket checkout foods are associated with a difference in the healthfulness of foods displayed at, or near, supermarket checkout areas.

Design

Cross-sectional survey of foods at, or near, supermarket checkouts categorised as less healthy or not according to the Food Standards Agency’s Nutrient Profiling Model.

Setting

One city in Eastern England (population about 125 000).

Subjects

All stores in nine supermarket groups open for business in June–July 2017 in the study city. Supermarket checkout food policies were categorised as clear and consistent, vague or inconsistent, or none.

Results

In thirty-three stores, 11 434 checkout food exposures were recorded, of which 8010 (70·1 %) were less healthy; and 2558 foods in areas near checkouts, of which 1769 (69·2 %) were less healthy. After adjusting for a marker of store size, the odds of a checkout food exposure being ‘less healthy’ was lower in stores with vague or inconsistent checkout policies (OR=0·63; 95 % CI 0·49, 0·80) and in stores with clear and consistent checkout policies (OR=0·33; 95 % CI 0·24, 0·45), compared with no policy. There was no difference in the odds of foods near, but not at, checkouts being less healthy according to checkout food policy.

Conclusions

Supermarket checkout food policies were associated with lower odds of checkout foods but not foods near, but not at, checkouts being less healthy. Further research is required to explore impacts on purchasing and consumption.
Upper Jurassic, Upper Cretaceous and Palaeocene conifer woods from Mexico
Authors: Ríos-Santos César , Cevallos-Ferriz Sergio R. S.
Published: October 2018

Although there are reports of permineralised woods in Mesozoic and Cenozoic strata in Mexico, there are few palaeobotanical studies based on coniferous stems. Four taxa of fossil wood from three localities in Mexico are described at the anatomical level and identified taxonomically based on detailed comparisons with woods of extant and fossil taxa. Agathoxylon gilii sp. nov. and A. jericonse sp. nov. are determined from the Todos Santos Formation (Upper Jurassic), in Chiapas; A. parrensis sp. nov. is described from the Las Encinas Formation (Palaeocene) in Coahuila; and Taxodioxylon cabullensis sp. nov. corresponds with material from the Packard Shale Formation in Sonora. Dominance of Araucariaceae and Cupressaceae in this region during the Mesozoic and early Cenozoic is further supported by leaf records, but these materials may also represent other taxa, like Cheirolepidaceae, which may have araucarioid secondary xylem. Records of Brachyphyllum and/or Pagiophyllum, which may represent araucarioid or cheirolepidaceous taxa, and different cupressaceous leaves, have been collected in rocks of the same period in nearby formations. At present, the amalgamation of isolated organs to form one plant is uncertain and, thus, there is an open challenge to reconstruct the plants and better understand these extinct communities. The new fossil taxa will add to the diversity of extinct plants and conifer communities during the Mesozoic and early Cenozoic in low-latitude North America.
Low‐Frequency Earthquakes and Pore Pressure Transients in Subduction Zones
Authors: Shapiro Nikolai M. , Campillo Michel , Kaminski Edouard , Vilotte Jean‐Pierre , Jaupart Claude
Published: October 2018

Low‐frequency earthquakes (LFEs) have been observed in subduction zones and some major tectonic faults and may well be the most important constituents of tectonic tremors. In subduction zones, they were initially attributed to fluids released by dehydration reactions in downgoing slabs. Their seismic radiation pattern, however, is consistent with shear slip on the subduction interface, and this rapidly became the favored model. Recent studies indicate that the source duration of LFEs does not scale with magnitude, which can hardly be explained by shear rupture. We revisit the characteristics of LFE events in subduction zones as retrieved from local seismic arrays. We demonstrate that they can be explained equally well by forces acting in the direction of fluid motion. Such forces may be generated by a fast local pressure variations associated with unsteady fluid motion. The amount of fluid required for LFE activity is consistent with dehydration reaction rates.
New Capabilities for Prediction of High‐Latitude Ionospheric Scintillation: A Novel Approach With Machine Learning
Authors: McGranaghan Ryan M. , Mannucci Anthony J. , Wilson Brian , Mattmann Chris A , Chadwick Richard
Published: October 2018

As societal dependence on transionospheric radio signals grows, space weather impact on these signals becomes increasingly important yet our understanding of the effects remains inadequate. This challenge is particularly acute at high latitudes where the effects of space weather are most direct and no reliable predictive capability exists. We take advantage of a large volume of data from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) signals, increasingly sophisticated tools for data‐driven discovery, and a machine learning algorithm known as the support vector machine (SVM) to develop a novel predictive model for high‐latitude ionospheric phase scintillation. This work, to our knowledge, represents the first time an SVM model has been created to predict high‐latitude phase scintillation. We use the true skill score to evaluate the SVM model and to establish a benchmark for high‐latitude ionospheric phase scintillation prediction. The SVM model significantly outperforms persistence (i.e., current and future scintillation are identical), doubling the predictive skill according to the true skill score for a 1‐hr lead time. For a 3‐hr lead time, persistence is comparable to a random chance prediction, suggesting that the memory of the ionosphere in terms of high‐latitude plasma irregularities is on the order of, or shorter than, a few hours. The SVM model predictive skill only slightly decreases between the 1‐ and 3‐hr predictive tasks, pointing to the potential of this method. Our findings can serve as a foundation on which to evaluate future predictive models, a critical development toward the resolution of space weather impact on transionospheric radio signals.
Non-Invasive Prediction of High-Risk Varices in Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Moctezuma-Velazquez Carlos , Saffioti Francesca , Tasayco-Huaman Stephanie , Casu Stefania , Mason Andrew , Roccarina Davide , Vargas Victor , Nilsson Jan-Erick , Tsochatzis Emmanuel , Augustin Salvador , Montano-Loza Aldo J. , Berzigotti Annalisa , Thorburn Douglas , Genesca Joan , Abraldes Juan Gonzalez
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND:

Baveno-VI guidelines recommend that patients with compensated cirrhosis with liver stiffness by transient elastography (LSM-TE) <20 kPa and platelets >150,000/mm3 do not need an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to screen for varices, since the risk of having varices needing treatment (VNT) is <5%. It remains uncertain if this tool can be used in patients with cholestatic liver diseases (ChLDs): primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). These patients may have a pre-sinusoidal component of portal hypertension that could affect the performance of this rule. In this study we evaluated the performance of Baveno-VI, expanded Baveno-VI (LSM-TE <25 kPa and platelets >110,000/mm3), and other criteria in predicting the absence of VNT.

METHODS:

This was a multicenter cross-sectional study in four referral hospitals. We retrospectively analyzed data from 227 patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) due to PBC (n = 147) and PSC (n = 80) that had paired EGD and LSM-TE. We calculated false negative rate (FNR) and number of saved endoscopies for each prediction rule.

RESULTS:

Prevalence of VNT was 13%. Baveno-VI criteria had a 0% FNR in PBC and PSC, saving 39 and 30% of EGDs, respectively. In PBC the other LSM-TE-based criteria resulted in FNRs >5%. In PSC the expanded Baveno criteria had an adequate performance. In both conditions LSM-TE-independent criteria resulted in an acceptable FNR but saved less EGDs.

CONCLUSIONS:

Baveno-VI criteria can be applied in patients with cACLD due to ChLDs, which would result in saving 30–40% of EGDs. Expanded criteria in PBC would lead to FNRs >5%.
Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Gastroenterology— Promises and Pitfalls
Authors: Ruffle James K. , Farmer Adam D. , Aziz Qasim
Published: October 2018

Technological advances in artificial intelligence (AI) represent an enticing opportunity to benefit gastroenterological practice. Moreover, AI, through machine or deep learning, permits the ability to develop predictive models from large datasets. Possibilities of predictive model development in machine learning are numerous dependent on the clinical question. For example, binary classifiers aim to stratify allocation to a categorical outcome, such as the presence or absence of a gastrointestinal disease. In addition, continuous variable fitting techniques can be used to predict quantity of a therapeutic response, thus offering a tool to predict which therapeutic intervention may be most beneficial to the given patient. Namely, this permits an important opportunity for personalization of medicine, including a movement from guideline-specific treatment algorithms to patient-specific ones, providing both clinician and patient the capacity for data-driven decision making. Furthermore, such analyses could predict the development of GI disease prior to the manifestation of symptoms, raising the possibility of prevention or pre-treatment. In addition, computer vision additionally provides an exciting opportunity in endoscopy to automatically detect lesions. In this review, we overview the recent developments in healthcare-based AI and machine learning and describe promises and pitfalls for its application to gastroenterology.
From proteins to polysaccharides: lifestyle and genetic evolution of Coprothermobacter proteolyticus
Authors: Kunath Benoit J , Delogu Francesco , Naas Adrian E , Arntzen Magnus Ø , Eijsink Vincent G H , Henrissat Bernard , Hvidsten Torgeir R , Pope Phillip B
Published: October 2018

Microbial communities that degrade lignocellulosic biomass are typified by high levels of species- and strain-level complexity, as well as synergistic interactions between both cellulolytic and non-cellulolytic microorganisms. Coprothermobacter proteolyticus frequently dominates thermophilic, lignocellulose-degrading communities with wide geographical distribution, which is in contrast to reports that it ferments proteinaceous substrates and is incapable of polysaccharide hydrolysis. Here we deconvolute a highly efficient cellulose-degrading consortium (SEM1b) that is co-dominated by Clostridium (Ruminiclostridium) thermocellum and multiple heterogenic strains affiliated to C. proteolyticus. Metagenomic analysis of SEM1b recovered metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) for each constituent population, whereas in parallel two novel strains of C. proteolyticus were successfully isolated and sequenced. Annotation of all C. proteolyticus genotypes (two strains and one MAG) revealed their genetic acquisition of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), presumably derived from horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events involving polysaccharide-degrading Firmicutes or Thermotogae-affiliated populations that are historically co-located. HGT material included a saccharolytic operon, from which a CAZyme was biochemically characterized and demonstrated hydrolysis of multiple hemicellulose polysaccharides. Finally, temporal genome-resolved metatranscriptomic analysis of SEM1b revealed expression of C. proteolyticus CAZymes at different SEM1b life stages as well as co-expression of CAZymes from multiple SEM1b populations, inferring deeper microbial interactions that are dedicated toward community degradation of cellulose and hemicellulose. We show that C. proteolyticus, a ubiquitous population, consists of closely related strains that have adapted via HGT to presumably degrade both oligo- and longer polysaccharides present in decaying plants and microbial cell walls, thus explaining its dominance in thermophilic anaerobic digesters on a global scale.
N-acetylcysteine add-on treatment leads to an improvement of fornix white matter integrity in early psychosis: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Klauser Paul , Xin Lijing , Fournier Margot , Griffa Alessandra , Cleusix Martine , Jenni Raoul , Cuenod Michel , Gruetter Rolf , Hagmann Patric , Conus Philippe , Baumann Philipp S. , Do Kim Q.
Published: October 2018

Mechanism-based treatments for schizophrenia are needed, and increasing evidence suggests that oxidative stress may be a target. Previous research has shown that N-acetylcysteine (NAC), an antioxidant and glutathione (GSH) precursor almost devoid of side effects, improved negative symptoms, decreased the side effects of antipsychotics, and improved mismatch negativity and local neural synchronization in chronic schizophrenia. In a recent double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial by Conus et al., early psychosis patients received NAC add-on therapy (2700 mg/day) for 6 months. Compared with placebo-treated controls, NAC patients showed significant improvements in neurocognition (processing speed) and a reduction of positive symptoms among patients with high peripheral oxidative status. NAC also led to a 23% increase in GSH levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (GSHmPFC) as measured by 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy. A subgroup of the patients in this study were also scanned with multimodal MR imaging (spectroscopy, diffusion, and structural) at baseline (prior to NAC/placebo) and after 6 months of add-on treatment. Based on prior translational research, we hypothesized that NAC would protect white matter integrity in the fornix. A group × time interaction indicated a difference in the 6-month evolution of white matter integrity (as measured by generalized fractional anisotropy, gFA) in favor of the NAC group, which showed an 11% increase. The increase in gFA correlated with an increase in GSHmPFC over the same 6-month period. In this secondary study, we suggest that NAC add-on treatment may be a safe and effective way to protect white matter integrity in early psychosis patients.
The dark side of centromeres: types, causes and consequences of structural abnormalities implicating centromeric DNA
Authors: Barra V. , Fachinetti D.
Published: October 2018

Centromeres are the chromosomal domains required to ensure faithful transmission of the genome during cell division. They have a central role in preventing aneuploidy, by orchestrating the assembly of several components required for chromosome separation. However, centromeres also adopt a complex structure that makes them susceptible to being sites of chromosome rearrangements. Therefore, preservation of centromere integrity is a difficult, but important task for the cell. In this review, we discuss how centromeres could potentially be a source of genome instability and how centromere aberrations and rearrangements are linked with human diseases such as cancer.
The architecture of EGFR’s basal complexes reveals autoinhibition mechanisms in dimers and oligomers
Authors: Zanetti-Domingues Laura C. , Korovesis Dimitrios , Needham Sarah R. , Tynan Christopher J. , Sagawa Shiori , Roberts Selene K. , Kuzmanic Antonija , Ortiz-Zapater Elena , Jain Purvi , Roovers Rob C. , Lajevardipour Alireza , van Bergen en Henegouwen Paul M. P. , Santis George , Clayton Andrew H. A. , Clarke David T. , Gervasio Francesco L. , Shan Yibing , Shaw David E. , Rolfe Daniel J. , Parker Peter J. , Martin-Fernandez Marisa L.
Published: October 2018

Our current understanding of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) autoinhibition is based on X-ray structural data of monomer and dimer receptor fragments and does not explain how mutations achieve ligand-independent phosphorylation. Using a repertoire of imaging technologies and simulations we reveal an extracellular head-to-head interaction through which ligand-free receptor polymer chains of various lengths assemble. The architecture of the head-to-head interaction prevents kinase-mediated dimerisation. The latter, afforded by mutation or intracellular treatments, splits the autoinhibited head-to-head polymers to form stalk-to-stalk flexible non-extended dimers structurally coupled across the plasma membrane to active asymmetric tyrosine kinase dimers, and extended dimers coupled to inactive symmetric kinase dimers. Contrary to the previously proposed main autoinhibitory function of the inactive symmetric kinase dimer, our data suggest that only dysregulated species bear populations of symmetric and asymmetric kinase dimers that coexist in equilibrium at the plasma membrane under the modulation of the C-terminal domain.
Substantiating freedom from parasitic infection by combining transmission model predictions with disease surveys
Authors: Michael Edwin , Smith Morgan E. , Katabarwa Moses N. , Byamukama Edson , Griswold Emily , Habomugisha Peace , Lakwo Thomson , Tukahebwa Edridah , Miri Emmanuel S. , Eigege Abel , Ngige Evelyn , Unnasch Thomas R. , Richards Frank O.
Published: October 2018

Stopping interventions is a critical decision for parasite elimination programmes. Quantifying the probability that elimination has occurred due to interventions can be facilitated by combining infection status information from parasitological surveys with extinction thresholds predicted by parasite transmission models. Here we demonstrate how the integrated use of these two pieces of information derived from infection monitoring data can be used to develop an analytic framework for guiding the making of defensible decisions to stop interventions. We present a computational tool to perform these probability calculations and demonstrate its practical utility for supporting intervention cessation decisions by applying the framework to infection data from programmes aiming to eliminate onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis in Uganda and Nigeria, respectively. We highlight a possible method for validating the results in the field, and discuss further refinements and extensions required to deploy this predictive tool for guiding decision making by programme managers.
Publisher Correction: Deubiquitinase Usp12 functions noncatalytically to induce autophagy and confer neuroprotection in models of Huntington’s disease
Authors: Aron Rebecca , Pellegrini Pasquale , Green Edward W. , Maddison Daniel C. , Opoku-Nsiah Kwadwo , Wong Jinny S. , Daub Aaron C. , Giorgini Flaviano , Finkbeiner Steven
Published: October 2018

The original version of this Article incorrectly gave a publication date of 8 October 2018; this should have been 28 September 2018. This has now been corrected in the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.