bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory experimental investigation of heat transport in fractured media
Authors: Cherubini Claudia , Pastore Nicola , Giasi Concetta I. , Allegretti Nicoletta Maria
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Low enthalpy geothermal energy is a renewable resource that is still underexploited nowadays, in relation to its potential for development in the society worldwide. Most of its applicabilities have already been investigated, such as: heating and cooling of private and public buildings, roads defrost, cooling of industrial processes, food drying systems, desalination. One of the major limitations related to the choice of installing low enthalpy geothermal power plants regards the initial investment costs. In order to increase the optimal efficiency of installations which use groundwater as geothermal resource, flow and heat transport dynamics in aquifers need to be well characterized. Especially in fractured rock aquifers these processes represent critical elements that are not well known. Therefore there is a tendency to oversize geothermal plants. In literature there are very few studies on heat transport especially in fractured media. This study is aimed to deepen the understanding of this topic through heat transport experiments in fractured network and their interpretation. The heat transfer tests have been carried out on the experimental apparatus previously employed to perform flow and tracer transport experiments, which has been modified in order to analyze heat transport dynamics in a network of fractures. In order to model the obtained thermal breakthrough curves, the Explicit Network Model (ENM) has been used, which is based on an adaptation of a Tang's solution for the transport of the solutes in a semi-infinite single fracture embedded in a porous matrix. Parameter estimation, time moment analysis, tailing character and other dimensionless parameters have permitted to better understand the dynamics of heat transport and the efficiency of heat exchange between the fractures and matrix. The results have been compared with the previous experimental studies on solute transport.
Knowledge needs, available practices, and future challenges in agricultural soils
Authors: Key Georgina , Whitfield Mike G. , Cooper Julia , De Vries Franciska T. , Collison Martin , Dedousis Thanasis , Heathcote Richard , Roth Brendan , Mohammed Shamal , Molyneux Andrew , Van der Putten Wim H. , Dicks Lynn V. , Sutherland William J. , Bardgett Richard D.
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The goal of this study is to clarify research needs and identify effective practices for enhancing soil health. This was done by a synopsis of soil literature that specifically tests practices designed to maintain or enhance elements of soil health. Using an expert panel of soil scientists and practitioners, we then assessed the evidence in the soil synopsis to highlight practices beneficial to soil health, practices considered detrimental, and practices that need further investigation. A partial Spearman's correlation was used to analyse the panel's responses. We found that increased certainty in scientific evidence led to practices being considered to be more effective due to them being empirically justified. This suggests that for practices to be considered effective and put into practice, a substantial body of research is needed to support the effectiveness of the practice. This is further supported by the high proportion of practices (33 %), such as changing the timing of ploughing or amending the soil with crops grown as green manures, that experts felt had unknown effectiveness, usually due to insufficiently robust evidence. Only 7 of the 27 reviewed practices were considered to be beneficial, or likely to be beneficial in enhancing soil health. These included the use of (1) integrated nutrient management (organic and inorganic amendments); (2) cover crops; (3) crop rotations; (4) intercropping between crop rows or underneath the main crop; (5) formulated chemical compounds (such as nitrification inhibitors); (6) control of traffic and traffic timing; and (7) reducing grazing intensity. Our assessment, which uses the Delphi technique, is increasingly used to improve decision-making in conservation and agricultural policy, identified practices that can be put into practice to benefit soil health. Moreover, it has enabled us to identify practices that need further research and a need for increased communication between researchers, policy-makers, and practitioners, in order to find effective means of enhancing soil health.
SHAPE MEMORY BEHAVIOR OF CARBON NANOTUBE FILLED SEGMENTED POLYURETHANE COMPOSITES UNDER VARIABLE STRESSES
Authors: Gupta Y. N. , Bhave T. , Chandra M. , Sharma R. B. , Setua D. K.
Published: October 2016

Composites of the segmented polyurethane (SPU) elastomer with different loadings of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared. Atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction were used to study the surface topography and structural aspects of the samples. Thermogravimetric analysis was performed in order to estimate the thermal stability of the composite samples. Two sets of cyclic thermomechanical experiments, both at sub-ambient conditions, were conducted for the evaluation of shape memory performance of the samples using modulated thermomechanical analysis. The first set of experiments was designed to estimate the shape memory performance under stress free or unconstraint conditions, while the second set was planned for the constraint conditions by application of variable stresses. The experimental parameters were so chosen that differences in shape memory response of matrix and composites were clearly distinguished and demonstrated. It was found that MWCNTs strongly affect the shape memory performance of the SPU and reduce the recovery speed under unconstraint conditions. While under constraint conditions, the extent of recovery and recovery speed of composites was found to depend on the applied load and nanotube concentration in the composites.
Riesgo de pobreza o exclusión social: evolución durante la crisis y perspectiva territorial
Authors: Faura-Martínez Úrsula , Lafuente-Lechuga Matilde , García Luque Olga
Published: October 2016

Este trabajo analiza la evolución de la tasa de riesgo de pobreza oexclusión social (AROPE) en España durante el reciente periodo decrisis, adoptando una perspectiva regional. Diversas cuestionesmetodológicas referidas a la integración de sus componentescuestionan la idoneidad del AROPE como indicador de la EstrategiaEuropa 2020. Estos problemas se acentúan en el análisis territorial, porlo que se contrasta el efecto de considerar umbrales de pobrezaregionales. Así obtenido, el riesgo de pobreza o exclusión social resultamás acorde al nivel de vida de cada territorio. Mediante un modelo deregresión lineal múltiple, se comprueba que la variabilidad regional de latasa AROPE depende fundamentalmente de la tasa de pobreza; noobstante, su poder explicativo disminuye, en favor de los indicadoresde privación y empleo, al utilizar umbrales regionales de pobreza.
Energy Efficiency Premiums in Unlabeled Office Buildings
Authors: Papineau Maya
Published: October 2016

Whether commercial real estate market participants effectively evaluate building energy efficiency characteristics in the absence of a green label has so far remained unaddressed in the literature. I estimate the energy efficiency premium in unlabeled office buildings by exploiting variation in mandatory building energy standard implementations as a result of the 1992 U.S. Energy Policy Act. A more stringent energy code leads to rent and price premiums of approximately 4 percent and 9 percent, respectively. Heterogeneity in the rent premium is also observed based on who pays the utility bills, as would be expected if market participants correctly evaluate energy conservation characteristics. The rent and price premiums are consistent with full capitalization of the energy savings from a more stringent standard.
Immunologic Aspects of Perioperative Nutrition
Authors: Andersen L. , Rasmussen M. , Holgersen R. Beier
Published: October 2016

Nutrition has proven to be of great importance for the postoperative clinical outcome. Several studies have shown that infectious complications in the surgical patient , are reduced by pre- or postoperative nourishment. We discuss cellular immunity in relation to both enteral and parenteral nutrition and present an updated literature study of current evidence. The aim of this paper is to give an overview of studies, that compare different immunological parameters in the surgical patient being nourished either enterally or parenterally.
Suminė ir labilioji anglis dirvožemyje tręšiant šunažolę mineralinėmis trąšomis ir biodujų gamybos šalutiniu produktu
Authors: Staugaitis Žygimantas , Šlepetienė Alvyra , Tilvikienė Vita , Kadžiulienė Žydrė
Published: October 2016

Tyrimų tikslas – palyginti mineralinių ir organinių (biodujų gamybos atliekos  –  BIODga) trąšų, naudotų skirtingomis normomis, poveikį dirvožemio suminės ir labiliosios anglies kiekio pokyčiams. Tyrimų objektas  –  dirvožemis, giliau glėjiškas karbonatingasis išplautžemis (Endohypogleyi-Calc(ar)ic Luvisols), kuriame auginta ‘Amba’ veislės paprastoji šunažolė (Dactylis glomerata L.). Laboratoriniai tyrimai atlikti 2013–2015 m. LAMMC Žemdirbystės instituto Cheminių tyrimų laboratorijoje. Eksperimento metu nustatyta, kad tręšiant mineralinėmis trąšomis dirvožemio organinės anglies kiekis buvo mažesnis, palyginti su netręštu. Suminės dirvožemio organinės anglies (Corg.) kaupimasis priklausė nuo BIODga normos, o didžiausias dirvožemio organinės anglies kiekis buvo tręšiant maksimalia azoto (N450) norma. Tyrimai parodė tręšimo įtaką labiliosios vandenyje tirpios anglies (C) kiekiui dirvožemyje (0–30 cm sluoksnis). Tręšimas azoto trąšomis tiek mineralinėmis, tiek biodujų gamybos atliekomis lėmė santykinai didesnį labiliosios C kaupimąsi viršutiniame (0–10 cm) dirvožemio sluoksnyje negu suminės organinės anglies (Corg.). Intensyviausi dirvožemio C transformacijos procesai vyko viršutiniame dirvožemio sluoksnyje, keičiantis labiliosios C santykinei daliai.
Maistui netinkamų riebalinių žaliavų panaudojimas biodyzelino gamyboje
Authors: Sendžikienė Eglė , Gumbytė Milda
Published: October 2016

Biodegalų gamyba iš maistinių sėklų turi neigiamus ekonominius, socialinius ir aplinkosauginius efektus, todėl būtina ieškoti alternatyvių žaliavų, tinkančių biodyzelino gamybai. Riebalinėms atliekoms, kurios tinka biodyzelino gamybai, galima priskirti gyvūninės kilmės riebalus, susidarančius perdirbant mėsą ir pieną, kailių ir odų apdorojimo riebalines atliekas. Biodegalų gamybai tikslinga naudoti ir aliejinguosius augalus, kurių aliejus neatitinka maistiniam aliejui keliamų reikalavimų. Šio darbo tikslas – ištirti gyvūninės kilmės riebalų ir judrų (Camelina sativa) sėklų aliejaus mišinių panaudojimo biodyzelino gamyboje galimybes taikant biotechnologinius metodus peresterinimui naudojant butanolį. Gaminant judrų aliejaus ir gyvūninės kilmės riebalų rūgščių butilesterius (JRBE) santykiu 1:3, efektyvus biokatalizatorius – Lipozyme TL IM. Dviejų stadijų proceso optimalios sąlygos: pirma stadija – 9 % lipazės (aliejaus masės), aliejaus ir butanolio molinis santykis – 1:6, temperatūra – 40 °C, trukmė – 6 val.; antra stadija – 5 % lipazės, aliejaus ir butanolio molinis santykis – 1:8, temperatūra – 40 °C, sintezės trukmė – 6 val. JRBE atitinka mūsų šalyje naudojamiems degalams keliamus reikalavimus, į butilesterius įterpus antioksidanto Ionol BF200 (1 000 ppm) ir depresanto Chimec 6635 (2 000 ppm) priedus.
Live-cell single-molecule tracking reveals co-recognition of H3K27me3 and DNA targets polycomb Cbx7-PRC1 to chromatin
Authors: Zhen Chao Yu , Tatavosian Roubina , Huynh Thao Ngoc , Duc Huy Nguyen , Das Raibatak , Kokotovic Marko , Grimm Jonathan B , Lavis Luke D , Lee Jun , Mejia Frances J , Li Yang , Yao Tingting , Ren Xiaojun
Published: October 2016

The Polycomb PRC1 plays essential roles in development and disease pathogenesis. Targeting of PRC1 to chromatin is thought to be mediated by the Cbx family proteins (Cbx2/4/6/7/8) binding to histone H3 with a K27me3 modification (H3K27me3). Despite this prevailing view, the molecular mechanisms of targeting remain poorly understood. Here, by combining live-cell single-molecule tracking (SMT) and genetic engineering, we reveal that H3K27me3 contributes significantly to the targeting of Cbx7 and Cbx8 to chromatin, but less to Cbx2, Cbx4, and Cbx6. Genetic disruption of the complex formation of PRC1 facilitates the targeting of Cbx7 to chromatin. Biochemical analyses uncover that the CD and AT-hook-like (ATL) motif of Cbx7 constitute a functional DNA-binding unit. Live-cell SMT of Cbx7 mutants demonstrates that Cbx7 is targeted to chromatin by co-recognizing of H3K27me3 and DNA. Our data suggest a novel hierarchical cooperation mechanism by which histone modifications and DNA coordinate to target chromatin regulatory complexes.
Primórdios da pintura sobre tela em Portugal. Contributos para a sua conservação através de um estudo técnico e material.
Authors: Maltieira Rita , Calvo Ana , Cunha Joana
Published: October 2016

A pintura a têmpera sobre tela consolida‑sena Idade Média assumindo diferentes característicasa norte e a sul. O frontal de altar de Nossa Senhora do Rosário é um desses escassosexemplares sobreviventes. A precaridade da sua camada pictórica alertou para o estudodeste tipo de obras cuja desvalorização leva a intervenções inadequadas que é urgentecorrigir. Um trabalho multidisciplinar, uma análise multi‑analíticae uma comparação comoutra pintura nortearam o estudo. Foram utilizada(o)s Fotografia visível e invisível, MO,SEM‑EDSe μFTIR. A informação revelada contribui para a valorização e preservação destesraros testemunhos dos primórdios da pintura em Portugal.
Avaliação do Desempenho Higrotérmico das Reservas da Câmara Municipal de Matosinhos (Portugal)
Authors: Gomes Maria Fernando , Vieira Eduarda , Casanovas Luís Elias , Calvo Ana
Published: October 2016

Para assegurarmos a preservação de uma colecção, um dos fatores determinantes é oconhecimento do seu passado, do seu percurso histórico bem como dos ambientes / climasonde este permaneceu. O presente trabalho incide sobre o caso de estudo das condições‑ambientedas reservas da Câmara Municipal de Matosinhos, cidade da área metropolitanado Porto (norte de Portugal). A investigação desenvolvida teve como objectivo a avaliaçãodo desempenho higrotérmico da reserva, compreendendo o estudo das condições‑ambientedo interior e do exterior do edifício da autarquia.
Using maximum entropy to predict suitable habitat for the endangered dwarf wedgemussel in the Maryland Coastal Plain
Authors: Campbell Cara A. , Hilderbrand Robert H.
Published: October 2016

Species distribution modelling can be useful for the conservation of rare and endangered species. Freshwater mussel declines have thinned species ranges producing spatially fragmented distributions across large areas. Spatial fragmentation in combination with a complex life history and heterogeneous environment makes predictive modelling difficult.

A machine learning approach (maximum entropy) was used to model occurrences and suitable habitat for the federally endangered dwarf wedgemussel, Alasmidonta heterodon, in Maryland's Coastal Plain catchments. Landscape‐scale predictors (e.g. land cover, land use, soil characteristics, geology, flow characteristics, and climate) were used to predict the suitability of individual stream segments for A. heterodon.

The best model contained variables at three scales: minimum elevation (segment scale), percentage Tertiary deposits, low intensity development, and woody wetlands (sub‐catchment), and percentage low intensity development, pasture/hay agriculture, and average depth to the water table (catchment). Despite a very small sample size owing to the rarity of A. heterodon, cross‐validated prediction accuracy was 91%.

Most predicted suitable segments occur in catchments not known to contain A. heterodon, which provides opportunities for new discoveries or population restoration. These model predictions can guide surveys toward the streams with the best chance of containing the species or, alternatively, away from those streams with little chance of containing A. heterodon.

Developed reaches had low predicted suitability for A. heterodon in the Coastal Plain. Urban and exurban sprawl continues to modify stream ecosystems in the region, underscoring the need to preserve existing populations and to discover and protect new populations.

Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and evaluation of a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography‐MS/MS method to quantify 19 nucleobases and nucleosides in rat plasma
Authors: Du Yan , Li Yin‐jie , Hu Xun‐xiu , Deng Xu , Qian Zeng‐ting , Li Zheng , Guo Meng‐zhe , Tang Dao‐quan
Published: October 2016

As essential endogenous compounds, nucleobases and nucleosides fulfill various functions in living organisms. This study presents the development and validation of a new hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method for simultaneous quantification of 19 nucleobases and nucleosides in rat plasma. For the sample preparation, 15 kinds of protein precipitants were evaluated according to the chromatographic profile and ion response of analytes. The optimization of chromatographic separation was respectively performed using reversed‐phase liquid chromatography and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography mode; each separation mode included two test columns with different stationary phases. The chromatographic profile and parameters such as half‐width (W1/2), capacity factor (K′) and tailing factor (ft) were used to evaluate the separation efficiencies. Furthermore, the adopted composition of two mobile phase systems and the concentrations of the additives in the optimum buffer system were also investigated. The developed method was fully validated and successfully applied quantitatively to determine 19 nucleobases and nucleosides in plasma from normal and diabetic nephropathy (DN) rats. Significant differences between normal and DN rats were found in plasma levels of cytosine, xanthine, thymidine, adenosine, guanosine, inosine and 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine. This information may provide a useful reference for the discovery of potential biomarkers of DN.
Controllable synthesis of Titania‐Supported Bismuth Oxyiodide Heterostructured Nanofibers with Highly Exposed (1 1 0) Bismuth Oxyiodide Facets for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Luo Shunqin , Chen Jiawei , Huang Zhaohui , Liu Chen , Fang Minghao
Published: October 2016

Bismuth oxyiodide/titanium dioxide (BiOI/TiO2) heterostructured nanofibers with exposed (1 1 0) BiOI facets were synthesized by electrospinning and hydrothermal methods. The BiOI/TiO2 heterostructures with exposed (1 1 0) BiOI facets exhibited an enhanced photoreactivity, for which the methylene blue and phenol degradation rate is increased by more than two times and the photocurrent density is 12 times as high as that of BiOI with exposed (1 1 0) facets. EPR spectroscopy indicated that the hydroxyl radicals and superoxide radicals could be generated by BiOI/TiO2 heterostructures with exposed (1 1 0) BiOI facets. Based on the experimental results, the enhancement of the photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the strong oxidization by hydroxyl radicals, enlarged band gap, lowered valence band position, and suppressed recombination of photoinduced electron–hole pairs by the manipulation of heterostructures with exposed (1 1 0) BiOI reactive facets.
Sonographic diagnosis of partial versus complete molar pregnancy: A reappraisal
Authors: Savage Julia L. , Maturen Katherine E. , Mowers Erika L. , Pasque Katherine B. , Wasnik Ashish P. , Dalton Vanessa K. , Bell Jason D.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To assess the prospective sonographic diagnosis of molar pregnancy and compare sonographic features of complete versus partial molar pregnancy.

Methods

This institutional review board‐‐approved retrospective chart review conducted between 2001 and 2011 identified 70 women with a histopathologic diagnosis of molar pregnancy and with available sonograms. Clinical data, images, and reports were reviewed, and features enumerated by radiologists blinded to the final diagnosis.

Results

Mean age of patients was 30.5 ± 7.0 (SD) years (range, 16–49 years) with a mean gravidity of 3.2 ± 2.3 (SD) (range 1–11). Mean gestational age was 74.0 ± 19.1 day (range 39–138) and serum β‐human chorionic gonadotropin was 131 ± 156 mIU/ml (range 447–662,000). Pathologic results showed 48 partial and 22 complete molar pregnancies. Sonographically, partial moles more commonly showed a yolk sac (56.3% versus 0%, p < 0.0001), fetal pole (62.5% versus 4.6%, p < 0.0001), fine septa within the sac (25.0% versus 4.6%, p = 0.05), and normal (31.3% versus 0%, p = 0.002) or minimally cystic placenta (27.1% versus 4.6%, p = 0.49), while complete moles had larger gestational sacs (612 versus 44 mm, p = 0.005), were more often avascular on color Doppler imaging (45.5% versus 18.8%, p = 0.02), had more often abnormal tissue in the uterus (82.6% versus 20.8%, p < 0.0001) and placental masses (86.9% versus 16.7%, p < 0.0001), and were more often diagnosed prospectively (86.4% versus 41.7%, p = 0.0005).

Conclusions

Complete molar pregnancy is associated with marked cystic changes and mass formation and is often diagnosed sonographically. Partial molar pregnancy often presents with minor cystic changes of the placenta and remains underdiagnosed sonographically. However, correct prospective diagnosis was made more frequently in this study than in older reports, perhaps due to improved spatial resolution of sonographic equipment. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:72–78, 2017;
Assessing the multiscale architecture of muscular tissue with Q‐space magnetic resonance imaging: Review
Authors: Hoffman Matthew P. , Taylor Erik N. , Aninwene George E. , Sadayappan Sakthivel , Gilbert Richard J.
Published: October 2016

Contraction of muscular tissue requires the synchronized shortening of myofibers arrayed in complex geometrical patterns. Imaging such myofiber patterns with diffusion‐weighted MRI reveals architectural ensembles that underlie force generation at the organ scale. Restricted proton diffusion is a stochastic process resulting from random translational motion that may be used to probe the directionality of myofibers in whole tissue. During diffusion‐weighted MRI, magnetic field gradients are applied to determine the directional dependence of proton diffusion through the analysis of a diffusional probability distribution function (PDF). The directions of principal (maximal) diffusion within the PDF are associated with similarly aligned diffusion maxima in adjacent voxels to derive multivoxel tracts. Diffusion‐weighted MRI with tractography thus constitutes a multiscale method for depicting patterns of cellular organization within biological tissues. We provide in this review, details of the method by which generalized Q‐space imaging is used to interrogate multidimensional diffusion space, and thereby to infer the organization of muscular tissue. Q‐space imaging derives the lowest possible angular separation of diffusion maxima by optimizing the conditions by which magnetic field gradients are applied to a given tissue. To illustrate, we present the methods and applications associated with Q‐space imaging of the multiscale myoarchitecture associated with the human and rodent tongues. These representations emphasize the intricate and continuous nature of muscle fiber organization and suggest a method to depict structural “blueprints” for skeletal and cardiac muscle tissue.
Spectroscopic exploration and thermodynamic characterization of desvenlafaxine interacting with fluorescent bovine serum albumin
Authors: Patgar Manjanath , Durgannavar Amar , Nandibewoor Sharanappa , Chimatadar Shivamurti
Published: October 2016

The mechanism of the interaction between bovine serum albumin (BSA) and desvenlafaxine was studied using fluorescence, ultraviolet absorption, 3‐dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism, synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy, cyclic voltametry, differential scanning calorimetry, and attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic techniques under physiological condition at pH 7.4. Stern‐Volmer calculations authenticate the fluorescence of BSA that was quenched by desvenlafaxine in a collision quenching mode. The fluorescence quenching method was used to evaluate number of binding sites “n” and binding constant KA that were measured, and various thermodynamic parameters were evaluated at different temperatures by using the van't Hoff equation and differential scanning calorimetry technique, which indicated a spontaneous and hydrophobic interaction between BSA and desvenlafaxine. According to the Förster theory we calculate the distance between the donor, BSA and acceptor, desvenlafaxine molecules. Furthermore, circular dichroism and attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicate nominal changes in the secondary structure of the protein.
Memory Problems in Parkinson's Disease Patients With and Without Mild Cognitive Impairment: Comparisons Between Caregiver and Self‐report
Authors: Woods Damith T. , Kneebone Anthony C.
Published: October 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine differences in patient and caregiver ratings of memory function in a community sample of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnosed with and without mild cognitive impairment (PD‐MCI).

Methods

One hundred sixty‐five patient‐caregiver pairings participated in the study. Patients withPDwere administered a battery of neuropsychological tests assessing five of the key cognitive domains as indicated in thePD‐MCIMovement Disorders Task Force criteria. Patients and caregivers also completed the Memory Assessment Clinics Self‐Rating or Family Scale (MAC‐S/MAC‐F), and patients were divided into two groups, those withPD‐MCIand those without.

Results

For patients diagnosed withPD‐MCI, both patients and caregivers reported significantly more memory changes compared with patients withoutPD‐MCIon theMAC‐S andMAC‐F. In contrast, for patients withoutPD‐MCI, patients and caregivers differed significantly in their reporting of memory changes, with scores indicating that patients withoutPD‐MCIfelt their memory functioning was worse than what caregivers were reporting.

Conclusions

Patients withPDwithoutMCImight be more sensitive to memory changes than their caregivers. Whether the self‐appraisal of memory problems is predictive of future cognitive difficulties, including progression toPD‐MCIorPDdementia, should be the focus of future research.
Training Genetic Counsellors to Deliver an Innovative Therapeutic Intervention: their Views and Experience of Facilitating Multi‐Family Discussion Groups
Authors: Eisler Ivan , Flinter Frances , Grey Jo , Hutchison Suzanne , Jackson Carole , Longworth Louise , MacLeod Rhona , McAllister Marion , Metcalfe Alison , Patch Christine , Cope Buddug , Robert Glenn , Rowland Emma , Ulph Fiona
Published: October 2016

Innovations in clinical genetics have increased diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of inherited genetic conditions (IGCs). This has led to an increased number of families seeking genetic testing and / or genetic counselling and increased the clinical load for genetic counsellors (GCs). Keeping pace with biomedical discoveries, interventions are required to support families to understand, communicate and cope with their Inherited Genetic Condition. The Socio‐Psychological Research in Genomics (SPRinG) collaborative have developed a new intervention, based on multi‐family discussion groups (MFDGs), to support families affected by IGCs and train GCs in its delivery. A potential challenge to implementing the intervention was whether GCs were willing and able to undergo the training to deliver the MFDG. In analysing three multi‐perspective interviews with GCs, this paper evaluates the training received. Findings suggests that MFDGs are a potential valuable resource in supporting families to communicate genetic risk information and can enhance family function and emotional well‐being. Furthermore, we demonstrate that it is feasible to train GCs in the delivery of the intervention and that it has the potential to be integrated into clinical practice. Its longer term implementation into routine clinical practice however relies on changes in both organisation of clinical genetics services and genetic counsellors’ professional development.
From the Communist Party to the Front de gauche. The French radical left from 1989 to 2014
Authors: Damiani Marco , De Luca Marino
Published: October 2016

This article examines the political transformations experienced by the Communist Party and the evolution of the radical left in France in the twenty-five years after 1989. Interpreting the Communist Party and Left Front as anti-establishment, that is, opposed to the political elite, but pro-system parties that are not interested in changing the nature of democratic governance. The peculiarities of French communism and its political philosophy are illustrated. Finally, this study considers the constituent process of the Front. At the beginning of the 21st century, the Front plays the role of a political federation to the left of the Socialist Party with positive electoral results.
Stories of stones and bones: disciplinarity, narrative and practice in British popular prehistory, 1911–1935
Authors: REES AMANDA
Published: October 2016

This paper explores how three central figures in the field of British prehistory – Sir Arthur Keith, Sir Grafton Elliot Smith and Louis Leakey – deployed different disciplinary practices and narrative devices in the popular accounts of human bio-cultural evolution that they produced during the early decades of the twentieth century. It shows how they used a variety of strategies, ranging from virtual witness through personal testimony to tactile demonstration, to ground their authority to interpret the increasingly wide range of fossil material available and to answer the bewildering variety of questions that could be asked about them. It investigates the way in which they positioned their own professional expertise in relation to fossil interpretation, particularly with regard to the – sometimes controversial – use they made of concepts, evidence and practices drawn from other disciplines. In doing so, they made claims that went beyond their original disciplinary boundaries. The paper argues that while none of these writers were able, ultimately, to support the wider claims they made regarding human prehistory, the nature of these claims deserves much closer attention, particularly with respect to the public role that historians of science can and should play in relation to present-day calls for greater interdisciplinarity.
Utilization of prosodic and linguistic cues during perceptions of nonunderstandings in radio communication
Authors: AUTON JAIME C. , WIGGINS MARK W. , SEARLE BEN J. , RATTANASONE NAN XU
Published: October 2016

The readback/hearback loop is a communicative protocol used in many high-risk environments to ensure that a verbal instruction has beenheardcorrectly by a receiver. However, it does not necessarily ensure that an instruction has beenunderstood. Using an international sample of hydroelectric power generation controllers, this study examined whether particular linguistic (complete and partial readbacks) and prosodic (final intonation, filler, and interturn delay) cues contained within a readback response could signal to listeners the extent to which speakers had understood an instruction. The results indicated that different prosodic cues are used to detect nonunderstandings, depending upon the linguistic content of the readback. The results have implications for training and system design in distributed environments.
A novel ligand of calcitonin receptor reveals a potential new sensor that modulates programmed cell death
Authors: Furness SGB , Hare DL , Kourakis A , Turnley AM , Wookey PJ
Published: October 2016

We have discovered that the accumulation of an anti-calcitonin receptor (anti-CTR) antibody conjugated to a fluorophore (mAb2C4:AF568) provides a robust signal for cells undergoing apoptotic programmed cell death (PCD). PCD is an absolute requirement for normal development of metazoan organisms. PCD is a hallmark of common diseases such as cardiovascular disease and tissue rejection in graft versus host pathologies, and chemotherapeutics work by increasing PCD. This robust signal or high fluorescent events were verified by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry in several cell lines and a primary culture in which PCD had been induced. In Jurkat cells, GBM-L2 and MG63 cells, the percentage undergoing PCD that were positive for both mAb2C4:AF568 and annexin V ranged between 70 and >90%. In MG63 cells induced for the preapoptotic cell stress response (PACSR), the normal expression of α-tubulin, a key structural component of the cytoskeleton, and accumulation of mAb2C4:AF568 were mutually exclusive. Our data support a model in which CTR is upregulated during PACSR and recycles to the plasma membrane with apoptosis. In cells committed to apoptosis (α-tubulin negative), there is accumulation of the CTR-ligand mAb2C4:AF568 generating a high fluorescent event. The reagent mAb2C4:AF568 effectively identifies a novel event linked to apoptosis.
Scalable fabrication of microneedle arrays via spatially controlled UV exposure
Authors: Takahashi Hidetoshi , Jung Heo Yun , Arakawa Nobuchika , Kan Tesuo , Matsumoto Kiyoshi , Kawano Ryuji , Shimoyama Isao
Published: October 2016

This paper describes a theoretical estimation of the geometry of negative epoxy-resist microneedles prepared via inclined/rotated ultraviolet (UV) lithography based on spatially controlled UV exposure doses. In comparison with other methods based on UV lithography, the present method can create microneedle structures with high scalability. When negative photoresist is exposed to inclined/rotated UV through circular mask patterns, a three-dimensional, needle-shaped distribution of the exposure dose forms in the irradiated region. Controlling the inclination angles and the exposure dose modifies the photo-polymerized portion of the photoresist, thus allowing the variation of the heights and contours of microneedles formed by using the same mask patterns. In an experimental study, the dimensions of the fabricated needles agreed well with the theoretical predictions for varying inclination angles and exposure doses. These results demonstrate that our theoretical approach can provide a simple route for fabricating microneedles with on-demand geometry. The fabricated microneedles can be used as solid microneedles or as a mold master for dissolving microneedles, thus simplifying the microneedle fabrication process. We envision that this method can improve fabrication accuracy and reduce fabrication cost and time, thereby facilitating the practical applications of microneedle-based drug delivery technology.
Correction: Corrigendum: Deactivation of excitatory neurons in the prelimbic cortex via Cdk5 promotes pain sensation and anxiety
Authors: Wang Guo-Qiang , Cen Cheng , Li Chong , Cao Shuai , Wang Ning , Zhou Zheng , Liu Xue-Mei , Xu Yu , Tian Na-Xi , Zhang Ying , Wang Jun , Wang Li-Ping , Wang Yun
Published: October 2016

Nature Communications 6: Article number: 7660 (2015); Published: 16 July 2015; Updated: 10 October 2016 In Fig. 7i of this Article, a different section of the control trace was used to represent the Cdk5 shRNA trace. The correct version of Fig. 7, including a new representative Cdk5 shRNA trace in panel i, appears below as Fig.
Molecular analysis of aggressive renal cell carcinoma with unclassified histology reveals distinct subsets
Authors: Chen Ying-Bei , Xu Jianing , Skanderup Anders Jacobsen , Dong Yiyu , Brannon A. Rose , Wang Lu , Won Helen H. , Wang Patricia I. , Nanjangud Gouri J. , Jungbluth Achim A. , Li Wei , Ojeda Virginia , Hakimi A. Ari , Voss Martin H. , Schultz Nikolaus , Motzer Robert J. , Russo Paul , Cheng Emily H. , Giancotti Filippo G. , Lee William , Berger Michael F. , Tickoo Satish K. , Reuter Victor E. , Hsieh James J.
Published: October 2016

Renal cell carcinomas with unclassified histology (uRCC) constitute a significant portion of aggressive non-clear cell renal cell carcinomas that have no standard therapy. The oncogenic drivers in these tumours are unknown. Here we perform a molecular analysis of 62 high-grade primary uRCC, incorporating targeted cancer gene sequencing, RNA sequencing, single-nucleotide polymorphism array, fluorescence in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry and cell-based assays. We identify recurrent somatic mutations in 29 genes, including NF2 (18%), SETD2 (18%), BAP1 (13%), KMT2C (10%) and MTOR (8%). Integrated analysis reveals a subset of 26% uRCC characterized by NF2 loss, dysregulated Hippo–YAP pathway and worse survival, whereas 21% uRCC with mutations of MTOR, TSC1, TSC2 or PTEN and hyperactive mTORC1 signalling are associated with better clinical outcome. FH deficiency (6%), chromatin/DNA damage regulator mutations (21%) and ALK translocation (2%) distinguish additional cases. Altogether, this study reveals distinct molecular subsets for 76% of our uRCC cohort, which could have diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
Giant Kerr response of ultrathin gold films from quantum size effect
Authors: Qian Haoliang , Xiao Yuzhe , Liu Zhaowei
Published: October 2016

With the size of plasmonic devices entering into the nanoscale region, the impact of quantum physics needs to be considered. In the past, the quantum size effect on linear material properties has been studied extensively. However, the nonlinear aspects have not been explored much so far. On the other hand, much effort has been put into the field of integrated nonlinear optics and a medium with large nonlinearity is desirable. Here we study the optical nonlinear properties of a nanometre scale gold quantum well by using the z-scan method and nonlinear spectrum broadening technique. The quantum size effect results in a giant optical Kerr susceptibility, which is four orders of magnitude higher than the intrinsic value of bulk gold and several orders larger than traditional nonlinear media. Such high nonlinearity enables efficient nonlinear interaction within a microscopic footprint, making quantum metallic films a promising candidate for integrated nonlinear optical applications.
Integrated multi-omics of the human gut microbiome in a case study of familial type 1 diabetes
Authors: Heintz-Buschart Anna , May Patrick , Laczny Cédric C. , Lebrun Laura A. , Bellora Camille , Krishna Abhimanyu , Wampach Linda , Schneider Jochen G. , Hogan Angela , de Beaufort Carine , Wilmes Paul
Published: October 2016

The gastrointestinal microbiome is a complex ecosystem with functions that shape human health. Studying the relationship between taxonomic alterations and functional repercussions linked to disease remains challenging. Here, we present an integrative approach to resolve the taxonomic and functional attributes of gastrointestinal microbiota at the metagenomic, metatranscriptomic and metaproteomic levels. We apply our methods to samples from four families with multiple cases of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Analysis of intra- and inter-individual variation demonstrates that family membership has a pronounced effect on the structural and functional composition of the gastrointestinal microbiome. In the context of T1DM, consistent taxonomic differences were absent across families, but certain human exocrine pancreatic proteins were found at lower levels. The associated microbial functional signatures were linked to metabolic traits in distinct taxa. The methodologies and results provide a foundation for future large-scale integrated multi-omic analyses of the gastrointestinal microbiome in the context of host–microbe interactions in human health and disease.
Topological defects at octahedral tilting plethora in bi-layered perovskites
Authors: Huang Fei-Ting , Gao Bin , Kim Jae-Wook , Luo Xuan , Wang Yazhong , Chu Ming-Wen , Chang Chung-Kai , Sheu Hwo-Shuenn , Cheong Sang-Wook
Published: October 2016

Oxygen octahedral distortions, including tilts/rotations, deformations and off-centring in (layered) perovskites, have the key role in their numerous functional properties. Near the polar-centrosymmetric phase boundary in bi-layered perovskite Ca3−xSrxTi2O7withx≈1, we found the presence of abundant topological eight-state vortex-antivortex pairs, associated with four oxygen octahedral tilts at domains and another four different oxygen octahedral tilts at domain walls. Our discovery opens a new revenue to unveil real-space topological defects associated with the possible vector choices in one specific lattice mode.
Five years of phenology observations from a mixed-grass prairie exposed to warming and elevated CO2
Authors: Reyes-Fox Melissa , Steltzer Heidi , LeCain Daniel R. , McMaster Gregory S.
Published: October 2016

Atmospheric CO2 concentrations have been steadily increasing since the Industrial Era and contribute to concurrent increases in global temperatures. Many observational studies suggest climate warming alone contributes to a longer growing season. To determine the relative effect of warming on plant phenology, we investigated the individual and joint effects of warming and CO2 enrichment on a mixed-grass prairie plant community by following the development of six common grassland species and recording four major life history events. Our data support that, in a semi-arid system, while warming advances leaf emergence and flower production, it also expedites seed maturation and senescence at the species level. However, the additive effect can be an overall lengthening of the growing and reproductive seasons since CO2 enrichment, particularly when combined with warming, contributed to a longer growing season by delaying plant maturation and senescence. Fostering synthesis across multiple phenology datasets and identifying key factors affecting plant phenology will be vital for understanding regional plant community responses to climate change.
Iberian fish records in the vertebrate collection of the Museum of Zoology of the University of Navarra
Authors: Rodeles Amaia A. , Galicia David , Miranda Rafael
Published: October 2016

The study of freshwater fish species biodiversity and community composition is essential for understanding river systems, the effects of human activities on rivers, and the changes these animals face. Conducting this type of research requires quantitative information on fish abundance, ideally with long-term series and fish body measurements. This Data Descriptor presents a collection of 12 datasets containing a total of 146,342 occurrence records of 41 freshwater fish species sampled in 233 localities of various Iberian river basins. The datasets also contain 148,749 measurement records (length and weight) for these fish. Data were collected in different sampling campaigns (from 1992 to 2015). Eleven datasets represent large projects conducted over several years, and another combines small sampling campaigns. The Iberian Peninsula contains high fish biodiversity, with numerous endemic species threatened by various menaces, such as water extraction and invasive species. These data may support the development of large biodiversity conservation studies.
A study of vocal nonlinearities in humpback whale songs: from production mechanisms to acoustic analysis
Authors: Cazau Dorian , Adam Olivier , Aubin Thierry , Laitman Jeffrey T. , Reidenberg Joy S.
Published: October 2016

Although mammalian vocalizations are predominantly harmonically structured, they can exhibit an acoustic complexity with nonlinear vocal sounds, including deterministic chaos and frequency jumps. Such sounds are normative events in mammalian vocalizations, and can be directly traceable to the nonlinear nature of vocal-fold dynamics underlying typical mammalian sound production. In this study, we give qualitative descriptions and quantitative analyses of nonlinearities in the song repertoire of humpback whales from the Ste Marie channel (Madagascar) to provide more insight into the potential communication functions and underlying production mechanisms of these features. A low-dimensional biomechanical modeling of the whale’s U-fold (vocal folds homolog) is used to relate specific vocal mechanisms to nonlinear vocal features. Recordings of living humpback whales were searched for occurrences of vocal nonlinearities (instabilities). Temporal distributions of nonlinearities were assessed within sound units, and between different songs. The anatomical production sources of vocal nonlinearities and the communication context of their occurrences in recordings are discussed. Our results show that vocal nonlinearities may be a communication strategy that conveys information about the whale’s body size and physical fitness, and thus may be an important component of humpback whale songs.
Highly Efficient and Stable Novel NanoBiohybrid Catalyst to Avert 3,4-Dihydroxybenzoic Acid Pollutant in Water
Authors: Das Rasel , Hamid Sharifah Bee Abd , Annuar Mohamad Suffian Mohamad
Published: October 2016

The present study reported for the first time covalent immobilization of protocatechuate 3,4-dioxygenase (3,4-POD) onto functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (F-MWCNT) for degrading the toxic 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (3,4-DHBA) pollutant in water. The F-MWCNTs had a maximum 3,4-POD loading of 1060 μg/mg. Immobilized 3,4 POD had 44% of relative structural changes to its free configurations. Nevertheless, >90% of relative activity and about 50% of catalytic efficiency were retained to the free enzyme. Immobilized 3,4-POD demonstrated higher alkaline stability and thermostability than the free 3,4-POD. The free and immobilized 3,4-POD lost 82% and 66% of relative activities, respectively after 180 min of incubations at 90 °C. Excellent shelf-life was observed for the immobilized 3,4-POD with residual activity of 56% compared with 41% and 39% of the free 3,4-POD at 4 °C and 25 °C over 30 days storage. Immobilized 3,4-POD showed >60% of catalytic activity retention even after ten-cycle uses, defraying the expenses of free 3,4-POD productions for long term uses. Finally, the immobilized 3,4-POD removed 71% of 3,4-DHBA from water in <4 h, paving its future application for water purification with reduced costs and time.
Correction: Corrigendum: Cascading failures in coupled networks with both inner-dependency and inter-dependency links
Authors: Liu Run-Ran , Li Ming , Jia Chun-Xiao , Wang Bing-Hong
Published: October 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 25294; published online: 04 May 2016; updated: 10 October 2016. This Article contains typographical errors. In the Results section under subheading ‘Scale-free networks’, “We keep R B constant in eq. (4), and check the behaviours of the order parameter R A ”
A simple, high-throughput modeling approach reveals insights into the mechanism of gametophytic self-incompatibility
Authors: Ashkani Jahanshah , Rees D. J. G.
Published: October 2016

Specificity in the GSI response results from the S-haplotype-specific molecular interaction of S-locus F-box (SLF/SFB) and SRNase proteins in the self-incompatibility locus (S-locus). The answer to the question of how these two components of the S-locus (SRNase and SLF/SFB) interact has been gathered from several models. Since there is not enough evidence as to which one is the definitive model, none of them can be ruled out. Despite the identification of interacting protein elements, the mechanism by which SLF/SFB and SRNase interact to differently trigger the self-incompatibility among families and subfamilies remain uncertain. The high-throughput modeling approach demonstrates structural visions into the possible existence of a Collaborative Non-Self Recognition model in apple. These findings postulate several prospects for future investigation providing useful information to guide the implementation of breeding strategies.