bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observation of Oblique Lower Band Chorus Generated by Nonlinear Three‐Wave Interaction
Authors: Teng S. , Zhao J. , Tao X. , Wang S. , Reeves G. D.
Published: June 2018

Oblique whistler mode waves have been suggested to play an important role in radiation belt electron dynamics. Recently, X. Fu et al. (2017, https://doi.org/10.1002/2017GL074411) proposed that highly oblique lower band whistler waves could be generated by nonlinear three‐wave resonance. Here we present the first observational evidence of such process, using Van Allen Probes data, where an oblique lower band chorus wave is generated by two quasi‐parallel waves through nonlinear three‐wave interaction. The wave resonance condition is satisfied even in the presence of frequency chirping of one of the pump waves. Different from the simulation results of X. Fu et al. (2017), simultaneous particle data do not show a plateau in the electron distribution, which could be due to the very weak intensity of the generated waves. These results should help to better understand the generation of oblique waves in the inner magnetosphere and their relative roles in energetic electron dynamics.
Ion Velocity and Electron Temperature Inside and Around the Diamagnetic Cavity of Comet 67P
Authors: Odelstad E. , Eriksson A. I. , Johansson F. L. , Vigren E. , Henri P. , Gilet N. , Heritier K. L. , Vallières X. , Rubin M. , André M.
Published: June 2018

A major point of interest in cometary plasma physics has been the diamagnetic cavity, an unmagnetized region in the innermost part of the coma. Here we combine Langmuir and Mutual Impedance Probe measurements to investigate ion velocities and electron temperatures in the diamagnetic cavity of comet 67P, probed by the Rosetta spacecraft. We find ion velocities generally in the range 2–4 km/s, significantly above the expected neutral velocity
1 km/s, showing that the ions are (partially) decoupled from the neutrals, indicating that ion‐neutral drag was not responsible for balancing the outside magnetic pressure. Observations of clear wake effects on one of the Langmuir probes showed that the ion flow was close to radial and supersonic, at least with respect to the perpendicular temperature, inside the cavity and possibly in the surrounding region as well. We observed spacecraft potentials
 V throughout the cavity, showing that a population of warm (∼5 eV) electrons was present throughout the parts of the cavity reached by Rosetta. Also, a population of cold (
) electrons was consistently observed throughout the cavity, but less consistently in the surrounding region, suggesting that while Rosetta never entered a region of collisionally coupled electrons, such a region was possibly not far away during the cavity crossings.
Observed Propagation Route of VLF Transmitter Signals in the Magnetosphere
Authors: Zhang Zhenxia , Chen Lunjin , Li Xinqiao , Xia Zhiyang , Heelis Roderick A. , Horne Richard B.
Published: June 2018

Signals of powerful ground transmitters at various places have been detected by satellites in near‐Earth space. The study on propagation mode, ducted or nonducted, has attracted much attentions for several decades. Based on the statistical results from Van Allen Probes (data from October 2012 to March 2017) and DEMETER satellite (from January 2006 to December 2007), we present the ground transmitter signals distributed clearly in ionosphere and magnetosphere. The observed propagation route in the meridian plane in the magnetosphere for each of various transmitters from the combination of DEMETER and Van Allen Probes data in nighttime is revealed for the first time. We use realistic ray tracing simulation and compare simulation results against Van Allen Probes and DEMETER observation. By comparison we demonstrate that the observed propagation route, with partial deviation from the field lines corresponding to ground stations, provides direct and clear statistical evidence that the nonducted propagation mode plays a main role, although with partial contribution from ducted propagation. The propagation characteristics of VLF transmitter signals in the magnetosphere are critical for quantitatively assessing their contribution to energetic electron loss in radiation belts.
Intercomparison of Six Upscaling Evapotranspiration Methods: From Site to the Satellite Pixel
Authors: Li Xiang , Liu Shaomin , Li Huaixiang , Ma Yanfei , Wang Jianghao , Zhang Yuan , Xu Ziwei , Xu Tongren , Song Lisheng , Yang Xiaofan , Lu Zheng , Wang Zeyu , Guo Zhixia
Published: June 2018

Land surface evapotranspiration (ET) is an important component of the surface energy budget and water cycle. To solve the problem of the spatial‐scale mismatch between in situ observations and remotely sensed ET, it is necessary to find the most appropriate upscaling approach for acquiring ground truth ET data at the satellite pixel scale. Based on a data set from two flux observation matrices in the middle stream and downstream of the Heihe River Basin, six upscaling methods were intercompared via direct validation and cross validation. The results showed that the area‐weighted method performed better than the other five upscaling methods introducing auxiliary variables (the integrated Priestley‐Taylor equation, weighted area‐to‐area regression kriging [WATARK], artificial neural network, random forest [RF], and deep belief network methods) over homogeneous underlying surfaces. Over moderately heterogeneous underlying surfaces, the WATARK method performed better. However, the RF method performed better over highly heterogeneous underlying surfaces. A combined method (using the area‐weighted and WATARK methods for homogeneous and moderately heterogeneous underlying surfaces, respectively, and using the RF method for highly heterogeneous underlying surfaces) was proposed to acquire the daily ground truth ET data at the satellite pixel scale, and the errors in the ground truth ET data were evaluated. The Dual Temperature Difference (DTD) and ETMonitor were validated using ground truth ET data, which solve the problem of the spatial‐scale mismatch and quantify uncertainties in the validation process.
Thermal Characteristics and Recent Changes of Permafrost in the Upper Reaches of the Heihe River Basin, Western China
Authors: Cao Bin , Zhang Tingjun , Peng Xiaoqing , Mu Cuicui , Wang Qingfeng , Zheng Lei , Wang Kang , Zhong Xinyue
Published: June 2018

To investigate the thermal characteristics and dynamics of permafrost as well as seasonally frozen ground over the upper reaches of the Heihe River Basin (URHR), an observation network with 14 boreholes was established during 2011–2014. The in situ measurements indicated mean annual air temperature that ranged from −5.2 to −2.3°C at the monitored elevation range of ∼3,600–4,150 m, and mean annual ground surface temperature that ranged from −1.3 to 1.7°C during 2013–2017. The mean annual ground temperature at 16‐ to 18‐m depth ranged from −1.71°C on the high (>4,000 m above sea level) north facing slope to about 0‐C around areas near the lower limit of permafrost. Active layer thickness at the monitored sites varied significantly with the range of 0.77–4.90 m during 2011–2017, and maximum frozen depth in seasonally frozen ground was about 5 m. Permafrost thickness was between ∼136 m and less than 10 m. Both permafrost and seasonally frozen ground were found to be subject to serious warming during the measured period in the URHR. This study provides new quantitative insights for permafrost and seasonally frozen ground in the URHR.
Genetic variability and ontogeny predict microbiome structure in a disease-challenged montane amphibian
Authors: Griffiths Sarah M , Harrison Xavier A , Weldon Ché , Wood Michael D , Pretorius Abigail , Hopkins Kevin , Fox Graeme , Preziosi Richard F , Antwis Rachael E
Published: June 2018

Amphibian populations worldwide are at risk of extinction from infectious diseases, including chytridiomycosis caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). Amphibian cutaneous microbiomes interact with Bd and can confer protective benefits to the host. The composition of the microbiome itself is influenced by many environment- and host-related factors. However, little is known about the interacting effects of host population structure, genetic variation and developmental stage on microbiome composition and Bd prevalence across multiple sites. Here we explore these questions in Amietia hymenopus, a disease-affected frog in southern Africa. We use microsatellite genotyping and 16S amplicon sequencing to show that the microbiome associated with tadpole mouthparts is structured spatially, and is influenced by host genotype and developmental stage. We observed strong genetic structure in host populations based on rivers and geographic distances, but this did not correspond to spatial patterns in microbiome composition. These results indicate that demographic and host genetic factors affect microbiome composition within sites, but different factors are responsible for host population structure and microbiome structure at the between-site level. Our results help to elucidate complex within- and among- population drivers of microbiome structure in amphibian populations. That there is a genetic basis to microbiome composition in amphibians could help to inform amphibian conservation efforts against infectious diseases.
NCX1 and NCX3 as potential factors contributing to neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation in the A53T transgenic mouse model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Sirabella Rossana , Sisalli Maria Josè , Costa Giulia , Omura Katia , Ianniello Gaetano , Pinna Annalisa , Morelli Micaela , Di Renzo Gianfranco Maria , Annunziato Lucio , Scorziello Antonella
Published: June 2018

Na+-Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) isoforms constitute the major cellular Ca2+ extruding system in neurons and microglia. We herein investigated the role of NCX isoforms in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Their expression and activity were evaluated in neurons and glia of mice expressing the human A53T variant of α-synuclein (A53T mice), an animal model mimicking a familial form of PD. Western blotting revealed that NCX3 expression in the midbrain of 12-month old A53T mice was lower than that of wild type (WT). Conversely, NCX1 expression increased in the striatum. Immunohistochemical studies showed that glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive astroglial cells significantly increased in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and in the striatum. However, the number and the density of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons decreased in both brain regions. Interestingly, ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA-1)-positive microglial cells increased only in the striatum of A53T mice compared to WT. Double immunostaining studies showed that in A53T mice, NCX1 was exclusively co-expressed in IBA-1-positive microglial cells in the striatum, whereas NCX3 was solely co-expressed in TH-positive neurons in SNc. Beam walking and pole tests revealed a reduction in motor performance for A53T mice compared to WT. In vitro experiments in midbrain neurons from A53T and WT mice demonstrated a reduction in NCX3 expression, which was accompanied by mitochondrial overload of Ca2+ ions, monitored with confocal microscopy by X-Rhod-1 fluorescent dye. Collectively, in vivo and in vitro findings suggest that the reduction in NCX3 expression and activity in A53T neurons from midbrain may cause mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal death in this brain area, whereas NCX1 overexpression in microglial cells may promote their proliferation in the striatum.
Surface ocean pH variations since 1689 CE and recent ocean acidification in the tropical South Pacific
Authors: Wu Henry C. , Dissard Delphine , Douville Eric , Blamart Dominique , Bordier Louise , Tribollet Aline , Le Cornec Florence , Pons-Branchu Edwige , Dapoigny Arnaud , Lazareth Claire E.
Published: June 2018

Increasing atmospheric CO2 from man-made climate change is reducing surface ocean pH. Due to limited instrumental measurements and historical pH records in the world’s oceans, seawater pH variability at the decadal and centennial scale remains largely unknown and requires documentation. Here we present evidence of striking secular trends of decreasing pH since the late nineteenth century with pronounced interannual to decadal–interdecadal pH variability in the South Pacific Ocean from 1689 to 2011 CE. High-amplitude oceanic pH changes, likely related to atmospheric CO2 uptake and seawater dissolved inorganic carbon fluctuations, reveal a coupled relationship to sea surface temperature variations and highlight the marked influence of El Niño/Southern Oscillation and Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation. We suggest changing surface winds strength and zonal advection processes as the main drivers responsible for regional pH variability up to 1881 CE, followed by the prominent role of anthropogenic CO2 in accelerating the process of ocean acidification.
Targeted disruption of the extracellular polymeric network of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms by alginate oligosaccharides
Authors: Powell Lydia C. , Pritchard Manon F. , Ferguson Elaine L. , Powell Kate A. , Patel Shree U. , Rye Phil D. , Sakellakou Stavroula-Melina , Buurma Niklaas J. , Brilliant Charles D. , Copping Jack M. , Menzies Georgina E. , Lewis Paul D. , Hill Katja E. , Thomas David W.
Published: June 2018

Acquisition of a mucoid phenotype byPseudomonassp. in the lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, with subsequent over-production of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS), plays an important role in mediating the persistence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) infections. The ability of a low molecular weight (Mn = 3200 g mol−1) alginate oligomer (OligoG CF-5/20) to modify biofilm structure of mucoidPseudomonas aeruginosa(NH57388A) was studied in vitro using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) with Texas Red (TxRd®)-labelled OligoG and EPS histochemical staining. Structural changes in treated biofilms were quantified using COMSTAT image-analysis software of CLSM z-stack images, and nanoparticle diffusion. Interactions between the oligomers, Ca2+and DNA were studied using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Imaging demonstrated that OligoG treatment (≥0.5%) inhibited biofilm formation, revealing a significant reduction in both biomass and biofilm height (P < 0.05). TxRd®-labelled oligomers readily diffused into established (24 h) biofilms. OligoG treatment (≥2%) induced alterations in the EPS of established biofilms; significantly reducing the structural quantities of EPS polysaccharides, and extracellular (e)DNA (P < 0.05) with a corresponding increase in nanoparticle diffusion (P < 0.05) and antibiotic efficacy against established biofilms. ITC demonstrated an absence of rapid complex formation between DNA and OligoG and confirmed the interactions of OligoG with Ca2+evident in FTIR and MD modelling. The ability of OligoG to diffuse into biofilms, potentiate antibiotic activity, disrupt DNA-Ca2+-DNA bridges and biofilm EPS matrix highlights its potential for the treatment of biofilm-related infections.
Quantum-enhanced magnetometry by phase estimation algorithms with a single artificial atom
Authors: Danilin S. , Lebedev A. V. , Vepsäläinen A. , Lesovik G. B. , Blatter G. , Paraoanu G. S.
Published: June 2018

Phase estimation algorithms are key protocols in quantum information processing. Besides applications in quantum computing, they can also be employed in metrology as they allow for fast extraction of information stored in the quantum state of a system. Here, we implement two suitably modified phase estimation procedures, the Kitaev and the semiclassical Fourier-transform algorithms, using an artificial atom realized with a superconducting transmon circuit. We demonstrate that both algorithms yield a flux sensitivity exceeding the classical shot-noise limit of the device, allowing one to approach the Heisenberg limit. Our experiment paves the way for the use of superconducting qubits as metrological devices which are potentially able to outperform the best existing flux sensors with a sensitivity enhanced by few orders of magnitude.
Effect of ionic strength and seawater cations on hagfish slime formation
Authors: Böni L. J. , Zurflüh R. , Baumgartner M. E. , Windhab E. J. , Fischer P. , Kuster S. , Rühs P. A.
Published: June 2018

The defensive slime of hagfish consists of a polyanionic mucin hydrogel that synergistically interacts with a fiber network forming a coherent and elastic hydrogel in high ionic strength seawater. In seawater, the slime deploys in less than a second entrapping large quantities of water by a well-timed thread skein unravelling and mucous gel swelling. This rapid and vast hydrogel formation is intriguing, as high ionic strength conditions generally counteract the swelling speed and ratio of polyelectrolyte hydrogels. In this work we investigate the effect of ionic strength and seawater cations on slime formation dynamics and functionality. In the absence of ionic strength skeins swell radially and unravel uncontrolled, probably causing tangling and creating a confined thread network that entraps limited water. At high ionic strength skeins unravel, but create a collapsed and dense fiber network. High ionic strength conditions therefore seem crucial for controlled skein unraveling, however not sufficient for water retention. Only the presence of naturally occurring Ca2+ or Mg2+-ions allowed for an expanded network and full water retention probably due to Ca2+-mediated vesicle rupture and cross-linking of the mucin. Our study demonstrates that hagfish slime deployment is a well-timed, ionic-strength, and divalent-cation dependent dynamic hydrogel formation process.
Azosemide is more potent than bumetanide and various other loop diuretics to inhibit the sodium-potassium-chloride-cotransporter human variants hNKCC1A and hNKCC1B
Authors: Hampel Philip , Römermann Kerstin , MacAulay Nanna , Löscher Wolfgang
Published: June 2018

The Na+–K+–2Cl−cotransporter NKCC1 plays a role in neuronal Cl−homeostasis secretion and represents a target for brain pathologies with altered NKCC1 function. Two main variants of NKCC1 have been identified: a full-length NKCC1 transcript (NKCC1A) and a shorter splice variant (NKCC1B) that is particularly enriched in the brain. The loop diuretic bumetanide is often used to inhibit NKCC1 in brain disorders, but only poorly crosses the blood-brain barrier. We determined the sensitivity of the two human NKCC1 splice variants to bumetanide and various other chemically diverse loop diuretics, using theXenopusoocyte heterologous expression system. Azosemide was the most potent NKCC1 inhibitor (IC50s 0.246 µM for hNKCC1A and 0.197 µM for NKCC1B), being about 4-times more potent than bumetanide. Structurally, a carboxylic group as in bumetanide was not a prerequisite for potent NKCC1 inhibition, whereas loop diuretics without a sulfonamide group were less potent. None of the drugs tested were selective for hNKCC1B vs. hNKCC1A, indicating that loop diuretics are not a useful starting point to design NKCC1B-specific compounds. Azosemide was found to exert an unexpectedly potent inhibitory effect and as a non-acidic compound, it is more likely to cross the blood-brain barrier than bumetanide.
Prognostic value of clinical and radiological findings for conservative treatment of idiopathic ulnar impaction syndrome
Authors: Roh Young Hak , Kim Sangwoo , Gong Hyun Sik , Baek Goo Hyun
Published: June 2018

Ulnar impaction syndrome (UIS) is a common source of ulnar-sided wrist pain, yet not all cases of radiographic ulnar impaction are symptomatic. We retrospectively analyze clinical or radiologic factors that affect prognoses of conservative treatment for idiopathic UIS. A total of 114 patients who had been diagnosed with UIS were treated with 6 weeks of short arm orthosis followed by formal physiotherapy for 6 weeks, with lifestyle modification to limit aggravating movements. The response to treatment, including pain numeric rating scale on an ulnar provocation test, grip strength, Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score (DASH), was assessed at 24-week follow-up. For the 24-week follow-up, 29 patients (25%) underwent ulnar shortening osteotomy due to persistent symptoms after conservative treatment, and 18 (16%) patients had pain scores of greater than 5, but they had not undergone surgery. After controlling for confounding variables, female gender (odds ratio (OR) 1.39), duration of symptom (OR 1.27), high pain NRS score on provocation test (OR 1.45), and enhanced carpal or distal ulna bone on MRI (OR 1.82) were associated with a higher likelihood of treatment failure. Knowledge of the factors offers physicians insight into predicting prognoses and helps patients set realistic expectations.
The Open Source GAITOR Suite for Rodent Gait Analysis
Authors: Jacobs Brittany Y. , Lakes Emily H. , Reiter Alex J. , Lake Spencer P. , Ham Trevor R. , Leipzig Nic D. , Porvasnik Stacy L. , Schmidt Christine E. , Wachs Rebecca A. , Allen Kyle D.
Published: June 2018

Locomotive changes are often associated with disease or injury, and these changes can be quantified through gait analysis. Gait analysis has been applied to preclinical studies, providing quantitative behavioural assessment with a reasonable clinical analogue. However, available gait analysis technology for small animals is somewhat limited. Furthermore, technological and analytical challenges can limit the effectiveness of preclinical gait analysis. The Gait Analysis Instrumentation and Technology Optimized for Rodents (GAITOR) Suite is designed to increase the accessibility of preclinical gait analysis to researchers, facilitating hardware and software customization for broad applications. Here, the GAITOR Suite’s utility is demonstrated in 4 models: a monoiodoacetate (MIA) injection model of joint pain, a sciatic nerve injury model, an elbow joint contracture model, and a spinal cord injury model. The GAITOR Suite identified unique compensatory gait patterns in each model, demonstrating the software’s utility for detecting gait changes in rodent models of highly disparate injuries and diseases. Robust gait analysis may improve preclinical model selection, disease sequelae assessment, and evaluation of potential therapeutics. Our group has provided the GAITOR Suite as an open resource to the research community at www.GAITOR.org, aiming to promote and improve the implementation of gait analysis in preclinical rodent models.
Variability in venom composition of European viper subspecies limits the cross-effectiveness of antivenoms
Authors: Zanetti Giulia , Duregotti Elisa , Locatelli Carlo Alessandro , Giampreti Andrea , Lonati Davide , Rossetto Ornella , Pirazzini Marco
Published: June 2018

Medically relevant cases of snakebite in Europe are predominately caused by European vipers of the genus Vipera. Systemic envenoming by European vipers can cause severe pathology in humans and different clinical manifestations are associated with different members of this genus. The most representative vipers in Europe are V. aspis and V. berus and neurological symptoms have been reported in humans envenomed by the former but not by the latter species. In this study we determined the toxicological profile of V. aspis and V. berus venoms in vivo in mice and we tested the effectiveness of two antivenoms, commonly used as antidotes, in counteracting the specific activities of the two venoms. We found that V. aspis, but not V. berus, is neurotoxic and that this effect is due to the degeneration of peripheral nerve terminals at the NMJ and is not neutralized by the two tested antisera. Differently, V. berus causes a haemorrhagic effect, which is efficiently contrasted by the same antivenoms. These results indicate that the effectiveness of different antisera is strongly influenced by the variable composition of the venoms and reinforce the arguments supporting the use polyvalent antivenoms.
A novel sample holder for 4D live cell imaging to study cellular dynamics in complex 3D tissue cultures
Authors: Septiadi D. , Bourquin J. , Durantie E. , Petri-Fink A. , Rothen-Rutishauser B.
Published: June 2018

Three dimensional (3D) co-cultures to mimic cellular dynamics have brought significant impacts in tissue engineering approaches for biomedical research. Herein, we present a novel sample holder combined with time-lapse fluorescence imaging technique, referred as 4D live cell imaging, allowing direct visualization of various cells up to 24 hours. We further extended our approach to monitor kinetics and dynamics of particle uptake by cells and translocation across tissue membranes.
Exposure of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus to Low Levels of the Antibacterial THAM-3ΦG Generates a Small Colony Drug-Resistant Phenotype
Authors: Weaver Alan J. , Peters Tami R. , Tripet Brian , Van Vuren Abigail , Rakesh  , Lee Richard E. , Copié Valérie , Teintze Martin
Published: June 2018

This study investigated resistance against trishexylaminomelamine trisphenylguanide (THAM-3ΦG), a novel antibacterial compound with selective microbicidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Resistance development was examined by culturing methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA) with sub-lethal doses of THAM-3ΦG. This quickly resulted in the formation of normal (WT) and small colonies (SC) of S. aureus exhibiting minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) 2× and 4× greater than the original MIC. Continuous cell passaging with increasing concentrations of THAM-3ΦG resulted in an exclusively SC phenotype with MIC >64 mg/L. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics and multivariate statistical analysis revealed three distinct metabolic profiles for THAM-3ΦG treated WT, untreated WT, and SC (both treated and untreated). The metabolome patterns of the SC sample groups match those reported for other small colony variants (SCV) of S. aureus. Supplementation of the SCV with menadione resulted in almost complete recovery of growth rate. This auxotrophism was corroborated by NMR analysis revealing the absence of menaquinone production in the SCV. In conclusion, MRSA rapidly acquires resistance to THAM-3ΦG through selection of a slow-growing menaquinone auxotroph. This study highlights the importance of evaluating and monitoring resistance to novel antibacterials during development.
Nitrogen loading effects on nitrification and denitrification with functional gene quantity/transcription analysis in biochar packed reactors at 5 °C
Authors: He Su , Ding Lili , Pan Yao , Hu Haidong , Ye Lin , Ren Hongqiang
Published: June 2018

This study investigated the nitrogen transformation rates of different nitrogen-loading (20, 30, and 50 mg TN/L) biochar packed reactors (C:N:P = 100:5:1) within 125 days at 5 °C. The results showed that high nitrogen loading resulted in an NH4+ (TN) removal efficiency decline from 98% (57%) to 83% (29%), with biochar yielding a higher NH4+, TN and DON removal rate than conventional activated sludge. Moreover, all biochar packed reactors realized a quick start-up by dropping in temperature stage by stage, and the effluent dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) concentrations of R20, R30, and R50 were 0.44 ± 0.18, 0.85 ± 0.35, and 0.66 ± 0.26 mg/L, respectively. The nirS/amoA, nxrA/amoA, and amoA/(narG + napA) were deemed to be the markers of ammonium oxidation rate (SAOR), specific nitrite oxidation rate (SNOR), and specific nitrate reduction rate (SNRR), respectively. Compared with functional gene quantity data, transcription data (mRNA) introduced into stepwise regression analyses agreed well with nitrogen transformation rates. High nitrogen loading also resulted in the cell viability decreased in R50. Nitrogen loadings and operation time both led to a significant variation in cell membrane composition, and unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) significantly increased in R30 (46.49%) and R50 (36.34%). High-throughput sequencing revealed that nitrogen loadings increased the abundance of nitrifying bacteria (e.g., Nitrospira) and reduced the abundance of denitrifying bacteria (e.g., Nakamurella, Thermomonas, and Zoogloea) through linear discriminant analysis (LDA).
BK channel deacetylation by SIRT1 in dentate gyrus regulates anxiety and response to stress
Authors: Yu Diankun , Homiack Damek R. , Sawyer Edward J. , Schrader Laura A.
Published: June 2018

Previous genomic studies in humans indicate that SIRT1, a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-dependent protein deacetylase, is involved in anxiety and depression, but the mechanisms are unclear. We previously showed that SIRT1 is highly activated in the nuclear fraction of the dentate gyrus of the chronically stressed animals and inhibits memory formation and increases anhedonic behavior during chronic stress, but specific functional targets of cytoplasmic SIRT1 are unknown. Here, we demonstrate that SIRT1 activity rapidly modulates intrinsic and synaptic properties of the dentate gyrus granule cells and anxiety behaviors through deacetylation of BK channel α subunits in control animals. Chronic stress decreases BKα channel membrane expression, and SIRT1 activity has no rapid effects on synaptic transmission or intrinsic properties in the chronically stressed animal. These results suggest SIRT1 activity rapidly modulates the physiological function of the dentate gyrus, and this modulation participates in the maladaptive stress response.
Discrimination of structurally similar odorous molecules with various concentrations by using a nanomechanical sensor
Authors: Minami Kosuke , Shiba Kota , Yoshikawa Genki
Published: June 2018

Structurally similar odorous molecules can be discriminated based on their chemical properties with reduced influence of their concentrations in a wide range from ppm to ppb levels by a pattern recognition method using a nanomechanical sensor.
Rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric synthesis of β-branched esters from allylic amines
Authors: Laffoon Summer D. , Wu Zhao , Hull Kami L.
Published: June 2018

β-Substituted chiral esters are synthesized in excellent yields and enantioselectivities from allylic amines using [(BINAP)Rh]BArF4 as the chiral catalyst.
Synthesis of large diamond single crystals under high pressure and high temperature through effective utilization of the synthesis cavity
Authors: Li Yong , Li Yadong , Wang Ying , Zhang Jie , Song Mousheng , She Yanchao , Chen Xiaozhou
Published: June 2018

To make maximal use of the synthesis cavity and improve the production efficiency, we designed the double seed bed method to synthesize large diamond crystals under high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) conditions, and the results were both theoretically calculated and verified by experiments.
Fabrication of single-chain nanoparticles through the dimerization of pendant anthracene groups via photochemical upconversion
Authors: Chidanguro Tamuka , Blank Danielle R. , Garrett Alexandra , Reese Cassandra M. , Schekman Jacob M. , Yu Xinjun , Patton Derek L. , Ayres Neil , Simon Yoan C.
Published: June 2018

Visible light is used to drive the intramolecular dimerization of anthracenes on a methacrylic polymer to form single-chain nanoparticles.
Hierarchical carbon–silicon nanowire heterostructures for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Moon Joonhee , Sim Uk , Kim Dong Jin , Ahn Hyo-Yong , An Junghyun , Ha Heonjin , Choi Kyoung Soon , Jeon Cheolho , Lee Jouhahn , Nam Ki Tae , Hong Byung Hee
Published: June 2018

A facile method for the direct synthesis of carbon nanowires (CNWs) on a SiNW electrode using a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) system with copper (Cu) vapor obtained from a floating Cu foil has been developed.
Asymmetric total synthesis of naturally occurring spirocyclic tetranorsesquiterpenoid lanceolactone A
Authors: Acharyya Ranjan Kumar , Nanda Samik
Published: June 2018

Asymmetric total synthesis of naturally occurring γ-butenolide containing [4.4]spiro-tetrahydrofuran lanceolactone A has been reported in this present work. Bimetallic (“Pd–Cu”) cascade cyclization was the crucial reaction employed for the construction of the γ-butenolide framework of the natural product.
Stability of Diels–Alder photoadducts in macromolecules
Authors: Petit Charlotte , Bangert Lukas D. , Abbasi Mahdi , Wilhelm Manfred , Goldmann Anja S. , Barner-Kowollik Christopher
Published: June 2018

The study investigates the thermal stability of ligation points resulting from photochemically induced Diels–Alder reactions within soft matter materials on the molecular level.
Synthesis of a Cd(ii) based 1D coordination polymer by in situ ligand generation and fabrication of a photosensitive electronic device
Authors: Dutta Basudeb , Jana Rajkumar , Sinha Chittaranjan , Ray Partha Pratim , Mir Mohammad Hedayetullah
Published: June 2018

A 1D coordination polymer, which has optoelectronic device applications, has been synthesized by in situ ligand formation.
A novel bifunctional A–D–A type small molecule for efficient organic solar cells
Authors: Song Jiali , Xue Xiaonan , Fan Bingbing , Huo Lijun , Sun Yanming
Published: June 2018

A novel A–D–A type small molecule namedDTFBRwas designed and synthesized.DTFBRexhibited bifunctional properties when combined with different photovoltaic materials.
Enhancing the electro-mechanical properties of polydimethylsiloxane elastomers through blending with poly(dimethylsiloxane-co-methylphenylsiloxane) copolymers
Authors: Madsen Peter Jeppe , Yu Liyun , Boucher Sarah , Skov Anne Ladegaard
Published: June 2018

Improved electro-mechanical properties of silicone-based dielectric elastomers are achieved by means of adding so-called “voltage-stabilisers” prepared from phenyl-functional copolymers prepared using oxyanionic ring-opening polymerisation.
Regulation of the meiotic divisions of mammalian oocytes and eggs
Authors: Sanders Jessica R. , Jones Keith T.
Published: June 2018

Initiated by luteinizing hormone and finalized by the fertilizing sperm, the mammalian oocyte completes its two meiotic divisions. The first division occurs in the mature Graafian follicle during the hours preceding ovulation and culminates in an extreme asymmetric cell division and the segregation of the two pairs of homologous chromosomes. The newly created mature egg rearrests at metaphase of the second meiotic division prior to ovulation and only completes meiosis following a Ca2+ signal initiated by the sperm at gamete fusion. Here, we review the cellular events that govern the passage of the oocyte through meiosis I with a focus on the role of the spindle assembly checkpoint in regulating its timing. In meiosis II, we examine how the egg achieves its arrest and how the fertilization Ca2+ signal allows the initiation of embryo development.
The Role of Cognition on Navigational Skills of Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Robillard Manon , Roy-Charland Annie , Cazabon Sylvie
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This study examined the role of cognition on the navigational process of a speech-generating device (SGD) among individuals with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The objective was to investigate the role of various cognitive factors (i.e., cognitive flexibility, sustained attention, categorization, fluid reasoning, and working memory) on the ability to navigate an SGD with dynamic paging and taxonomic grids in individuals with ASD.

Method

Twenty individuals aged 5 to 20 years with ASD were assessed using the Leiter International Performance Scale–Revised (Roid & Miller, 1997) and the Automated Working Memory Assessment (Alloway, 2007). They also completed a navigational task using an iPad 4 (Apple, 2017; taxonomic organization).

Results

Significant correlations between all of the cognitive factors and the ability to navigate an SGD were revealed. A stepwise linear regression suggested that cognitive flexibility was the best predictor of navigational ability with this population.

Conclusion

The importance of cognition in the navigational process of an SGD with dynamic paging in children and adolescents with ASD has been highlighted by the results of this study.
Effective hardware implementation of Volterra filters based on reduced‐rank approaches
Authors: Oliveira F.D.R. , Batista E.L.O. , Seara R.
Published: June 2018

The focus of this Letter is on the development of a new effective approach for the hardware implementation of Volterra filters. The proposed approach is based on exploiting the different significance levels of the branches in a reduced‐rank Volterra implementation aiming to reduce the complexity required for implementing each branch. In this Letter, the probability of overflow is used as a metric to define individual word lengths for the fixed‐point implementation of each branch. Experimental results corroborate the capability of the proposed approach for obtaining precise implementations with considerable reduction in computational complexity.
Coexistence of magneto-rotational and Jeans instabilities in an axisymmetric nebula
Authors: Montani Giovanni , Palermo Giovanni , Carlevaro Nakia
Published: June 2018

Aims. We analyze the magneto-rotational instability (MRI) effects on gravitational collapse and its influence on the instability critical scale.

Methods. In particular, we study an axisymmetric nonstratified differentially rotating cloud, embedded in a small magnetic field, and we perform a local linear stability analysis, including the self gravity of the system.

Results. We demonstrate that the linear evolution of the perturbations is characterized by the emergence of an anisotropy degree of the perturbed mass densities. Starting with spherical growing overdensities, we see that they naturally acquire an anisotropy of order unity in their shape. Despite the linear character of our analysis, we infer that such a seed of anisotropy can rapidly grow in a nonlinear regime, leading to the formation of filament-like structures. However, we show how such an anisotropy is essentially an intrinsic feature of the Jean instability, and how MRI only plays a significant role in fixing the critical scale of the mode spectrum. We then provide a characterization of the present analysis in terms of the cosmological setting, in order to provide an outlook of how the present results could concern the formation of large-scale structures across the Universe.
Low-mass star formation and subclustering in the H II regions RCW 32, 33, and 27 of the Vela Molecular Ridge
Authors: Prisinzano L. , Damiani F. , Guarcello M. G. , Micela G. , Sciortino S. , Tognelli E. , Venuti L.
Published: June 2018

Context. Most stars are born in clusters, and recent results suggest that star formation (SF) preferentially occurs in subclusters. Studying the morphology and SF history of young clusters is crucial for understanding early cluster formation processes.

Aims. We aim to identify the embedded population of young stellar objects (YSOs) down to the low-mass stars in the M-type regime in the three H II regions RCW 33, RCW 32, and RCW 27, which are located in the northwestern region of the Vela Molecular Ridge. Our aim is to characterize their properties, such as morphology and extent of the clusters in the three H II regions, derive stellar ages, and determine the connection of the SF history with the environment.

Methods. Through public photometric surveys such as Gaia, VPHAS+, 2MASS, and Spitzer/GLIMPSE, we identify YSOs with classical techniques aimed at detecting IR, Hα, and UV excesses as signatures of circumstellar disks and accretion. In addition, we implement a method for distinguishing main-sequence (MS) stars and giants in the M-type regime by comparing the reddening derived in several optical/IR color-color diagrams, assuming suitable theoretical models. Since this diagnostic is sensitive to stellar gravity, the procedure allows us to also identify pre-MS (PMS) stars.

Results. Using the classical membership criteria, we find that a large population of YSOs shows signatures of circumstellar disks with or without accretion. In addition, with the new technique of M-type star selection, we find a rich population of young M-type stars whose spatial distribution strongly correlates with the more massive population. We find evidence of three young clusters, with different morphology, for which we estimate the individual distances using TGAS Gaia data of the brighter subsample. In addition, we identify field stars falling in the same region by securely classifying them as giants and foreground MS stars.

Conclusions. We identify the embedded population of YSOs down to about 0.1 M⊙ that is associated with the three H II regions RCW 33, RCW 32, and RCW 27 and the three clusters Vela T2, Cr 197, and Vela T1, respectively. All the three clusters are located at a similar distance, but they have very different morphologies. Our results suggest a decreasing SF rate in Vela T2 and triggered SF in Cr 197 and Vela T1.
Changes and continuities in agricultural work: the case of small and medium-sized vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina
Authors: Brignardello María
Published: June 2018

To examine today’s agricultural production processes requires redefining work and the social agents involved in it. As such, this article belongs to the scholarly literature that seeks to understand how the emphasis on quality in the agricultural industry reshapes agricultural work at the local level. In particular, it aims to explore the implications of these structural changes for small and medium-sized vineyards. Since the late 1980s, the wine grape industry in the Argentine province of Mendoza has experienced structural changes. This process has been referred to as a “quality turn”. As a result, small and medium-sized vineyards must alter their practices. In this context, our questions include the following: what does this mean for labor in these vineyards? Who performs the newly required tasks, as well as the traditional ones? We address these questions through a qualitative analysis of interviews with the winegrape growers of small and medium-sized vineyards located in the High Mendoza River Area (Argentina). Using this methodology, we strive to understand the current forms of labor organization in an agricultural sector influenced by both global changes and local history. In conclusion, we argue that the labor practices and power structure between the winegrape grower, his family, and non-family workers are not uniform across all vineyards. Instead, we find great diversity in the organization and operation of small and medium-sized vineyards.
Proposal for enhancement of antihydrogen ion production in the GBAR experiment
Authors: Cooke D.A. , Husson A. , Lunney D. , Crivelli P.
Published: June 2018

The production of antihydrogen ions (H̅+) in the GBAR experiment will occur via a two step charge exchange process. In a first reaction, the antiprotons(P̅) from the ELENA ring will capture a positron from a positronium(Ps) target producing antihydrogen (H̅) atoms. Those interacting in the same Ps target will produce in a second step H̅+. This results in a dependence for the H̅+ production rate which is roughly proportional to the Ps density squared. Wepresent a scheme to increase the anti-ion production rate in the GBAR experiment by tailoring the antiproton to the positron pulse in order to maximise thetemporal overlap of Ps and p̅. Detailed simulations show that an order of magnitude could be gained by bunching the antiprotons from ELENA. In order to avoid losses in their capture in the Paul trap due to the energy spread introducedby the bunching, debunching with a symmetrical inverted pulse can be appliedto the H̅+ ions.
Single-and multi-nucleon K− interactions with nuclei near threshold
Authors: Friedman Eliahu , Gal Avraham
Published: June 2018

Six recent SU(3) chiral-model EFT approaches to the K̅-nucleon interaction near threshold, constrained by K− p low-energy scattering and reaction data and by the kaonic hydrogen SIDDHARTA experiment, are used as input in kaonic atom calculations. Good agreement with the world-data on kaonic atoms is achieved with optical potentials built on the above models only when K̅N amplitudes are supplemented by a phenomenological multi-nucleon term. Comparing predictions with experimental single-nucleon absorption-at-rest fractions on nuclei, only two of the models together with their associated phenomenological term are acceptable. The information content of K−-nucleus data near threshold is discussed and the topic of deeply-bound kaonic atoms is re-visited.
Exotic and Conventional Bottomonium Physics Prospects at Belle II
Authors: Pedlar Todd K.
Published: June 2018

The Belle II experiment, being constructed at the KEK laboratory in Japan, represents a substantial upgrade of both the Belle detector and the KEKB accelerator. It is expected that Belle II will collect 50 times more data than existing B-Factory samples beginning in 2019. Belle II is uniquely capable of studying the so-called "XYZ" particles: heavy exotic hadrons consisting of more than three quarks. First discovered by Belle, these now number in the dozens, and represent the emergence of a new category within Quantum Chromodynamics. In this article we summarize the capabilities of Belle II to explore both exotic and conventional bottomonium physics, with a particular focus on the physics reach of the first data, where opportunities exist to make an immediate impact in this area.
Hadron spectroscopy in LHCb
Authors: Palano Antimo
Published: June 2018

The LHCb experiment is designed to study the properties and decays of heavy flavored hadrons produced in pp collisions at the LHC. The data collected in the LHC Run I enables precision spectroscopy studies of beauty and charm hadrons. The latest results on spectroscopy of conventional and exotic hadrons are reviewed. In particular the discovery of the first charmonium pentaquark states in theJ/Ψpsystem, the possible existence of four-quark states decaying toJ/ΨΦand the confirmation of resonant nature of theZc(4430)−mesonic state are discussed. In the sector of charmed baryons, the observation of five new Ωcstates, the observation of the Ξcc+and the study of charmed baryons decaying toD0pare presented.
Der Kaiserschnitt – Sectio caesarea
Authors: Wagenhäuser Karl-Heinz
Published: June 2018

Der Kaiserschnitt wurde früher fast ausschließlich aus medizinischen Gründen durchgeführt, wenn eine Geburt durch die Scheide für Mutter oder Kind zu gefährlich
erschien. Heutzutage wird etwa jedes dritte Kind in Deutschland per Kaiserschnitt entbunden, wobei es große regionale Unterschiede gibt. Der starke Anstieg auf
durchschnittlich fast 32 Prozent wird kontrovers diskutiert. Wir stellen Ihnen Schritt für Schritt die Sectio caesarea vor.
Attraktive Pflege
Authors: König Anja
Published: June 2018

Das Projekt „Heidelberger Expertise in der Pflege“ – kurz HEP 2020 – hat sich zum Ziel gesetzt, die Arbeitsbedingungen im Pflegeberuf zu verbessern, um
qualifizierte Mitarbeiter zu rekrutieren und dauerhaft zu binden, die Berufszufriedenheit zu erhöhen und eine exzellente Patientenversorgung sicherzustellen.
Wir stellen Ihnen das Projekt vor.
Interdisziplinäres Projekt: Lagerungsleitlinie
Authors: Möller Franziska
Published: June 2018

Ein gemeinsames Projekt schweißt das Team zusammen und erhöht die Mitarbeiterbindung. Deshalb wurde am Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg mit allen Beteiligten eine
interdisziplinäre Lagerungsleitlinie erarbeitet. Durch die enge Zusammenarbeit beim Erstellen der Leitlinie hat sich die Kommunikation zwischen den
Berufsgruppen verbessert. Zusätzlich erhöhte sich die Mitarbeiterzufriedenheit, da es nun ein einheitliches Vorgehen bei der Lagerung gibt und jeder weiß, was
er zu tun hat.