bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relativistic Runge-Lenz vector: from $$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$ SYM to SO(4) scalar field theory
Authors: Alvarez-Jimenez J. , Cortese I. , García J. Antonio , Gutiérrez-Ruiz D. , Vergara J. David
Published: October 2018

Abstract

Starting from

$$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$

N
=
4

SYM and using an appropriate Higgs mechanism we reconsider the construction of a scalar field theory non-minimally coupled to a Coulomb potential with a relativistic SO(4) symmetry and check for scalar field consistency conditions. This scalar field theory can also be obtained from a relativistic particle Lagrangian with a proper implementation of the non-minimal coupling. We provide the generalization of the non-relativistic construction of the Runge-Lenz vector to the relativistic case and show explicitly that this new vector generates the SO(4) algebra. Using the power of the SO(4) symmetry, we calculate the relativistic hydrogen atom spectrum. We provide a generalization of the Kustaanheimo-Stiefel transformation to the relativistic case and relate our results with the corresponding relativistic oscillator. Finally, in the light of these results, we reconsider the calculation of the hydrogen atom spectrum from the cusp anomalous dimension given in [2].
Infrared sensitivity of single jet inclusive production at hadron colliders
Authors: Currie James , Gehrmann-De Ridder Aude , Gehrmann Thomas , Glover Nigel , Huss Alexander , Pires João
Published: October 2018

Abstract

Jet production at hadron colliders is a benchmark process to probe the dynamics of the strong interaction and the structure of the colliding hadrons. One of the most basic jet production observables is the single jet inclusive cross section, which is obtained by summing all jets that are observed in an event. Our recent computation of next-to-next-to-leading order (NNLO) QCD contributions to single jet inclusive observables uncovered large corrections in certain kinematical regions, which also resulted in a sizeable ambiguity on the appropriate choice of renormalization and factorization scales. We now perform a detailed investigation of the infrared sensitivity of the different ingredients to the single jet inclusive cross section. We show that the contribution from the second jet, ordered in transverse momentum p
T, in the event is particularly sensitive to higher order effects due to implicit restrictions on its kinematics. By investigating the second-jet transverse momentum distribution, we identify large-scale cancellations between different kinematical event configurations, which are aggravated by certain types of scale choice. Taking perturbative convergence and stability as selection criteria enables us to single out the total partonic transverse energy Ĥ
T and twice the individual jet transverse momentum 2 p
T (with which Ĥ
T coincides in Born kinematics) as the most appropriate scales in the perturbative description of single jet inclusive production.
Role of purinergic receptors in the Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Cieślak Marek , Wojtczak Andrzej
Published: October 2018

Etiology of the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is not fully understood. Different pathological processes are considered, such as amyloid deposition, tau protein phosphorylation, oxidative stress (OS), metal ion disregulation, or chronic neuroinflammation. Purinergic signaling is involved in all these processes, suggesting the importance of nucleotide receptors (P2X and P2Y) and adenosine receptors (A1, A2A, A2B, A3) present on the CNS cells. Ecto-purines, ecto-pyrimidines, and enzymes participating in their metabolism are present in the inter-cellular spaces. Accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) in brain induces the ATP release into the extra-cellular space, which in turn stimulates the P2X7 receptors. Activation of P2X7 results in the increased synthesis and release of many pro-inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and chemokines. Furthermore, activation of P2X7 leads to the decreased activity of α-secretase, while activation of P2Y2 receptor has an opposite effect. Simultaneous inhibition of P2X7 and stimulation of P2Y2 would therefore be the efficient way of the α-secretase activation. Activation of P2Y2 receptors present in neurons, glia cells, and endothelial cells may have a positive neuroprotective effect in AD. The OS may also be counteracted via the purinergic signaling. ADP and its non-hydrolysable analogs activate P2Y13 receptors, leading to the increased activity of heme oxygenase, which has a cytoprotective activity. Adenosine, via A1 and A2A receptors, affects the dopaminergic and glutaminergic signaling, the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BNDF), and also changes the synaptic plasticity (e.g., causing a prolonged excitation or inhibition) in brain regions responsible for learning and memory. Such activity may be advantageous in the Alzheimer’s disease.
CHILDREN AND TESTIMONIAL INJUSTICE: A RESPONSE TO BURROUGHS AND TOLLEFSEN
Authors: Bartlett Gary
Published: October 2018

Michael Burroughs and Deborah Tollefsen (2016) claim that children are subject to widespread testimonial injustice. They argue that empirical data shows that children are prejudicially accorded less epistemic credibility in forensic contexts, and that this in turn shows that the same is true in broader contexts. While I agree that there is indeed testimonial injustice against children, I argue that Burroughs and Tollefsen exaggerate its severity and extent, by exaggerating children's testimonial reliability. Firstly, the empirical data do not quite support their claim about children's performance in forensic contexts. Secondly, while they advocate a relational conception of children's agency which emphasizes the role of adults in realizing their testimonial abilities, Burroughs and Tollefsen miss the full implications of such a conception for our evaluation of children's credibility, and for our behavior towards them in testimonial contexts. Thirdly, they underestimate the significance of children's limited general knowledge.
Immediate impact of healthcare-facility–onset Clostridium difficile laboratory-identified events reporting methodology change on standardized infection ratios
Authors: Figueroa Castro Carlos E. , Palen Louis , Johnson Carrie , Graham Mary Beth , Letzer David , Ledeboer Nathan , Buchan Blake , Block Timothy , Seliger Heather , Singh Siddhartha , Behrens Elizabeth , Huerta Susan , Munoz-Price L. Silvia
Published: October 2018

In 2018, the Clostridium difficile LabID event methodology changed so that hospitals doing 2-step tests, nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) plus enzyme immunofluorescence assay (EIA), had their adjustment modified to EIA-based tests, and only positive final tests (eg, EIA) were counted in the numerator. We report the immediate impact of this methodological change at 3 Milwaukee hospitals.
Local isomorphism and multinational enterprises’ human resource management practices: Extending the research agenda
Authors: Ayentimi Desmond Tutu , Burgess John , Dayaram Kantha
Published: October 2018

Local isomorphism constitutes the regulatory, cognitive and normative profile of a host country. The regulatory institutional setting reflects the rules and legislation governing collective bargaining agreements, trade unions, local content laws and employment relationships. The cultural or cognitive dimension supports the widely held cultural and social knowledge and the normative profile acknowledges the influences of social groups and organizations on acceptable normative behaviour. Earlier literature lends support to the importance of institutional profile and its influence on the design and implementation of multinational enterprises’ human resource management policies and practices. This paper seeks to advance the concept of local isomorphism and highlight the implications of local isomorphism for future research on the transfer of multinational enterprises’ human resource management practices across and between subsidiaries.
TRUTHS, INDUCTIVE DEFINITIONS, AND KRIPKE-PLATEK SYSTEMS OVER SET THEORY
Authors: FUJIMOTO KENTARO
Published: October 2018

In this article we study the systems KF and VF of truth over set theory as well as related systems and compare them with the corresponding systems over arithmetic.
THE COMPLEXITY OF TOPOLOGICAL GROUP ISOMORPHISM
Authors: KECHRIS ALEXANDER S. , NIES ANDRÉ , TENT KATRIN
Published: October 2018

We study the complexity of the topological isomorphism relation for various classes of closed subgroups of the group of permutations of the natural numbers. We use the setting of Borel reducibility between equivalence relations on Borel spaces. For profinite, locally compact, and Roelcke precompact groups, we show that the complexity is the same as the one of countable graph isomorphism. For oligomorphic groups, we merely establish this as an upper bound.
Effects of pomegranate supplementation on exercise performance and post-exercise recovery in healthy adults: a systematic review
Authors: Ammar Achraf , Bailey Stephen J. , Chtourou Hamdi , Trabelsi Khaled , Turki Mouna , Hökelmann Anita , Souissi Nizar
Published: October 2018

The functional significance of pomegranate (POM) supplementation on physiological responses during and following exercise is currently unclear. This systematic review aimed (i) to evaluate the existing literature assessing the effects of POM supplementation on exercise performance and recovery; exercise-induced muscle damage, oxidative stress, inflammation; and cardiovascular function in healthy adults and (ii) to outline the experimental conditions in which POM supplementation is more or less likely to benefit exercise performance and/or recovery. Multiple electronic databases were used to search for studies examining the effects of POM intake on physiological responses during and/or following exercise in healthy adult. Articles were included in the review if they investigated the effects of an acute or chronic POM supplementation on exercise performance, recovery and/or physiological responses during or following exercise. The existing evidence suggests that POM supplementation has the potential to confer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects during and following exercise, to improve cardiovascular responses during exercise, and to enhance endurance and strength performance and post-exercise recovery. However, the beneficial effects of POM supplementation appeared to be less likely when (i) unilateral eccentric exercise was employed, (ii) the POM administered was not rich in polyphenols (<1·69 g/l) and (iii) insufficient time was provided between POM-ingestion and the assessment of physiological responses/performance (≤1 h). The review indicates that POM has the potential to enhance exercise performance and to expedite recovery from intensive exercise. The findings and recommendations from this review may help to optimise POM-supplementation practice in athletes and coaches to potentially improve exercise-performance and post-exercise recovery.
Examining the link between prior suicidality and subsequent suicidal ideation among high-risk US military service members
Authors: Hom Melanie A. , Duffy Mary E. , Rogers Megan L. , Hanson Jetta E. , Gutierrez Peter M. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: October 2018

Background

Research is needed to identify the factors that explain the link between prior and future suicidality. This study evaluated possible mediators of the relationship between: (1) the severity of prior suicidality and (2) suicidal ideation severity at 3-month follow-up among a sample of high-risk military personnel.

Methods

US military service members referred to or seeking care for suicide risk (N= 624) completed self-report psychiatric domain measures and a clinician interview assessing prior suicidality severity at baseline. Three months later, participants completed a self-report measure of suicidal ideation severity. Three separate percentile bootstrap mediation models were used to examine psychiatric factors (i.e. alcohol abuse, anxiety sensitivity, hopelessness, insomnia, posttraumatic stress symptoms, suicidal ideation, and thwarted belongingness) as parallel mediators of the relationship between prior suicidality severity (specifically, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and overall suicidality – i.e. ideation/attempt severity combined) at baseline and suicidal ideation severity at follow-up.

Results

Hopelessness, specifically, and the total effect of all mediators, each significantly accounted for the relationship between prior suicidality severity and subsequent ideation severity across models. In the models with attempt severity and overall suicidality severity as predictors, thwarted belongingness was also a significant mediator.

Conclusions

Hopelessness, thwarted belongingness, and overall severity of psychiatric indices may explain the relationship between prior suicidality severity and future suicidal ideation severity among service members at elevated suicide risk. Research is needed to replicate these findings and examine other possible mediators.
Principal component analysis and brain-based predictors of emotion regulation in anxiety and depression
Authors: Klumpp Heide , Kinney Kerry L. , Bhaumik Runa , Fitzgerald Jacklynn M.
Published: October 2018

Background

Reappraisal, an adaptive emotion regulation strategy, is associated with frontal engagement. In internalizing psychopathologies (IPs) such as anxiety and depression frontal activity is atypically reduced suggesting impaired regulation capacity. Yet, successful reappraisal is often demonstrated at the behavioral level. A data-driven approach was used to clarify brain and behavioral relationships in IPs.

Methods

During functional magnetic resonance imaging, anxious [general anxiety disorder (n = 43), social anxiety disorder (n = 72)] and depressed (n = 47) patients reappraised negative images to reduce negative affect (‘ReappNeg’) and viewed negative images (‘LookNeg’). After each trial, the affective state was reported. A cut-point (i.e. values <0 based on ΔReappNeg-LookNeg) demarcated successful reappraisers. Neural activity for ReappNeg-LookNeg, derived from 37 regions of interest, was submitted to Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify unique components of reappraisal-related brain response. PCA factors, symptom severity, and self-reported habitual reappraisal were submitted to discriminant function analysis and linear regression to examine whether these data predicted successful reappraisal (yes/no) and variance in reappraisal ability.

Results

Most patients (63%) were successful reappraisers according to the behavioral criterion (values<0; ΔReappNeg-LookNeg). Discriminant function analysis was not significant for PCA factors, symptoms, or habitual reappraisal. For regression, more activation in a factor with high loadings for frontal regions predicted better reappraisal facility. Results were not significant for other variables.

Conclusions

At the individual level, more activation in a ‘frontal’ factor corresponded with better reappraisal facility. However, neither brain nor behavioral variables classified successful reappraisal (yes/no). Findings suggest individual differences in regions strongly implicated in reappraisal play a role in on-line reappraisal capability.
Feminist everyday political economy: Space, time, and violence
Authors: Elias Juanita , Rai Shirin M.
Published: October 2018

It goes without saying that feminist International Political Economy (IPE) is concerned in one way or another with the everyday – conceptualised as both a site of political struggle and a site within which social relations are (re)produced and governed. Given the longstanding grounding of feminist research in everyday gendered experiences, many would ask: Why do we need an explicit feminist theorisation of the everyday? After all, notions of everyday life and everyday political struggle infuse feminist analysis. This article seeks to interrogate the concept of the everyday – questioning prevalent understandings of the everyday and asking whether there is analytical and conceptual utility to be gained in articulating a specifically feminist understanding of it. We argue that a feminist political economy of the everyday can be developed in ways that push theorisations of social reproduction in new directions. We suggest that one way to do this is through the recognition that social reproductionisthe everyday alongside a three-part theorisation of space, time, and violence (STV). It is an approach that we feel can play an important role in keeping IPE honest – that is, one that recognises how important gendered structures of everyday power and agency are to the conduct of everyday life within global capitalism.
Childhood Inequality in China: Evidence from Recent Survey Data (2012–2014)
Authors: Young Natalie A.E. , Hannum Emily C.
Published: October 2018

In recent decades, China has transformed from a relatively egalitarian society to a highly unequal one. What are the implications of high levels of inequality for the lives of children? Drawing on two nationally representative datasets, the China Family Panel Studies and the China Education Panel Survey, we develop a comprehensive portrait of childhood inequality in post-reform China. Analyses reveal stark disparities between children from different socio-economic backgrounds in family environments and in welfare outcomes, including physical health, psychosocial health and educational performance. We argue that childhood inequality in China is driven not only by the deprivations of poverty but also by the advantages of affluence, as high socio-economic status children diverge from their middle and low socio-economic status counterparts on various family environment and child welfare measures.
Jewish History beyond the Jewish People
Authors: Berman Lila Corwin
Published: October 2018

This article proposes a new set of critical historical practices, with the aim of constructing Jewishness into an interpretive historical mode. Jewish history is most commonly understood as the history of the Jewish people and its territories. In setting this as the foundation of Jewish history, scholars have allowed empirical evaluation of the Jewishness of a person or place to precede analysis. Two basic approaches, clearly foundational and tied to personalist and nationalist conceptions of Jewishness, have guided the field of Jewish history: the conjunctive and contingent. A third method—termed here a critical constructive approach—offers a nonfoundational vision for freeing Jewishness and Jewish history from tests of individual, group, or nationalist verifiability and, instead, reconceiving Jewishness as a structuring mode that can affect how a broad range of subjects have operated within history.
Mapping early environment using communication deviance: A longitudinal study of maternal sensitivity toward 6-month-old children
Authors: de Sousa Paulo , Sellwood William , Fien Kirsten , Sharp Helen , Pickles Andrew , Hill Jonathan , Abbott Kate , Fisher Louise , Bentall Richard P.
Published: October 2018

Communication deviance (CD) reflects features of the content or manner of a person's speech that may confuse the listener and inhibit the establishment of a shared focus of attention. The construct was developed in the context of the study of familial risks for psychosis based on hypotheses regarding its effects during childhood. It is not known whether parental CD is associated with nonverbal parental behaviors that may be important in early development. This study explored the association between CD in a cohort of mothers (n = 287) at 32 weeks gestation and maternal sensitivity with infants at 29 weeks in a standard play procedure. Maternal CD predicted lower overall maternal sensitivity (B = –.385; p < .001), and the effect was somewhat greater for sensitivity to infant distress (B = –.514; p < .001) than for sensitivity to nondistress (B = –.311; p < .01). After controlling for maternal age, IQ and depression, and for socioeconomic deprivation, the associations with overall sensitivity and sensitivity to distress remained significant. The findings provide new pointers to intergenerational transmission of vulnerability involving processes implicated in both verbal and nonverbal parental behaviors.
Mapping developmental changes in perceived parent–adolescent relationship quality throughout middle school and high school
Authors: Ebbert Ashley M. , Infurna Frank J. , Luthar Suniya S.
Published: October 2018

This study examined changes in adolescents’ perceived relationship quality with mothers and fathers from middle school to high school, gender differences, and associated mental health consequences using longitudinal data from the New England Study of Suburban Youth cohort (n= 262, 48% female) with annual assessments (Grades 6–12). For both parents, alienation increased, and trust and communication decreased from middle school to high school, with greater changes among girls. Overall, closeness to mothers was higher than with fathers. Girls, compared to boys, perceived more trust and communication and similar levels of alienation with mothers at Grade 6. Girls perceived stronger increases in alienation from both parents and stronger declines in trust with mothers during middle school. Increasing alienation from both parents and less trust with mothers at Grade 6 was associated with higher levels of anxiety at Grade 12. Less trust with both parents at Grade 6 and increasing alienation and decreasing trust with mothers in high school were associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms at Grade 12. Overall, girls reported having higher levels of anxiety at Grade 12 compared to boys. Findings on the course of the quality of parent–adolescent relationships over time are discussed in terms of implications for more targeted research and interventions.
Access to healthy food retailers among formerly incarcerated individuals
Authors: Testa Alexander M
Published: October 2018

Objective

To assess access to healthy food retailers among formerly incarcerated individuals.

Design

Using linked data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health and the Modified Retail Food Environment Index, the present study applies multivariate logistic regression to assess the association between incarceration and (i) living in a food desert and (ii) having low access to healthy food retailers. To account for unobserved heterogeneity, additional analyses are performed comparing formerly incarcerated individuals with persons arrested or convicted for a crime but not previously incarcerated.

Setting

Sample of respondents living in urban census tracts in the USA.

Subjects

Adults (n10390) aged 24–34 years.

Results

In adjusted logistic regression models, prior incarceration was not significantly associated with living in a food desert (OR=1·097; 95% CI 0·896, 1·343). Prior incarceration significantly increased the likelihood of living in a census tract with low access to healthy food retailers (OR=1·265; 95% CI 1·069, 1·498). This significant association remained when comparing formerly incarcerated individuals with those who had been arrested or convicted of a crime, but not previously incarcerated (OR=1·246; 95% CI 1·032, 1·503).

Conclusions

Formerly incarcerated individuals are more likely to live in areas with low access to healthy food retailers compared with their non-incarcerated counterparts. Because lower access healthy food retailers may be associated with worse health and dietary behaviour, disparities in local food retail environments may exacerbate health inequalities among formerly incarcerated individuals.
Lobbying strategies and success: Inside and outside lobbying in European Union legislative politics
Authors: De Bruycker Iskander , Beyers Jan
Published: October 2018

In their pursuit of political influence, interest groups face the choice to contact policy elites directly or to generate pressure indirectly by appealing to the public at large. This article examines whether interest groups should prioritize inside or outside lobbying tactics in order to materialize their policy objectives, with a specific focus on European Union legislative policymaking. This article demonstrates that outside lobbying is not inherently more or less successful than inside lobbying; rather, the effect of inside or outside lobbying is conditional on the extent to which additional lobbying tactics are adopted and on the type of policy issues a lobbyist seeks to influence. The empirical approach of this article consists of an extensive media analysis and over 200 interviews with policy practitioners active on 78 policy proposals. The results indicate that outside lobbying leads to policy success when the lobbyist’s policy position enjoys popular endorsement within media debates and when the lobbyist engages in a coalition with other organized interests.
A Shaping Procedure to Modulate Two Cognitive Tasks to Improve a Sensorimotor Rhythm-Based Brain-Computer Interface System
Authors: da Silva-Sauer Leandro , Valero-Aguayo Luis , Velasco-Álvarez Francisco , Fernández-Rodríguez Álvaro , Ron-Angevin Ricardo
Published: October 2018

This study aimed to propose an adapted feedback using a psychological learning technique based on Skinner’s shaping method to help the users to modulate two cognitive tasks (right-hand motor imagination and relaxed state) and improve better control in a Brain-Computer Interface. In the first experiment, a comparative study between performance in standard feedback (N = 9) and shaping method (N = 10) was conducted. The NASA Task Load Index questionnaire was applied to measure the user’s workload. In the second experiment, a single case study was performed (N = 5) to verify the continuous learning by the shaping method. The first experiment showed significant interaction effect between sessions and group (F(1, 17) = 5.565; p = .031) which the shaping paradigm was applied. A second interaction effect demonstrates a higher performance increase in the relax state task with shaping procedure (F(1, 17) = 5. 038; p = .038). In NASA-TXL an interaction effect was obtained between the group and the cognitive task in Mental Demand (F(1, 17) = 6, 809; p = .018), Performance (F(1, 17) = 5, 725; p = .029), and Frustration (F(1, 17) = 9, 735; p = .006), no significance was found in Effort. In the second experiment, a trial-by-trial analysis shows an ascendant trend learning curve for the cognitive task with the lowest initial acquisition (relax state). The results suggest the effectiveness of the shaping procedure to modulate brain rhythms, improving mainly the cognitive task with greater initial difficulty and provide better interaction perception.
3D Analysis of GW Propagation in the Ionosphere
Authors: Chum J. , Podolská K.
Published: October 2018

Unique observation and analysis of gravity wave (GW) propagation in the ionosphere was performed on the basis of multipoint and multifrequency continuous Doppler sounding in the Czech Republic. The sounding radio waves of various frequencies reflect at different heights. Thus, the propagation of GWs can be studied in three‐dimensional space using the time (phase) delays between observation of corresponding signatures at different reflection points that are separated both horizontally and vertically. The individual reflection points correspond to different sounding paths (transmitter‐receiver pairs) and are usually at heights between ~150 and ~260 km, depending on ionospheric conditions. It is shown that the wave vectors of the observed GWs were mostly directed obliquely downward, which means that the energy propagated obliquely upward. It was observed that energy of GWs decreased with height in the upper atmosphere. The observed average attenuation was around 0.14 dB/km.
Channel Profile and Plan‐View Controls on the Aspect Ratio of River Basins
Authors: Shelef Eitan
Published: October 2018

The ratio between the width and length (i.e., aspect ratio) of river basins is a fundamental attribute of Earth's surface. Topographic analyses showed that the aspect ratio of high‐order basins along linear mountain fronts is surprisingly consistent despite different tectonic, lithologic, and climatic conditions. Additionally, analysis of simulated landscapes showed that the aspect ratio depends on the concavity of the river profile. These observations remain difficult to explain because of the intricate shape of river networks. Here I present a simple geometric model that computes the aspect ratio from the location of a triple divide junction with neighboring basins, the concavity of the river profile, and the exponent that relates river length and drainage area (i.e., Hack's exponent). The model suggests that these seemingly independent empirical observations are interdependent and that small basins that bound larger ones play a key role in determining the aspect ratio of the larger basins.
Genome-wide significant regions in 43 Utah high-risk families implicate multiple genes involved in risk for completed suicide
Authors: Coon Hilary , Darlington Todd M. , DiBlasi Emily , Callor W. Brandon , Ferris Elliott , Fraser Alison , Yu Zhe , William Nancy , Das Sujan C. , Crowell Sheila E. , Chen Danli , Anderson John S. , Klein Michael , Jerominski Leslie , Cannon Dale , Shabalin Andrey , Docherty Anna , Williams Megan , Smith Ken R. , Keeshin Brooks , Bakian Amanda V. , Christensen Erik , Li Qingqin S. , Camp Nicola J. , Gray Douglas
Published: October 2018

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Although environment has undeniable impact, evidence suggests that genetic factors play a significant role in completed suicide. We linked a resource of ~ 4500 DNA samples from completed suicides obtained from the Utah Medical Examiner to genealogical records and medical records data available on over eight million individuals. This linking has resulted in the identification of high-risk extended families (7–9 generations) with significant familial risk of completed suicide. Familial aggregation across distant relatives minimizes effects of shared environment, provides more genetically homogeneous risk groups, and magnifies genetic risks through familial repetition. We analyzed Illumina PsychArray genotypes from suicide cases in 43 high-risk families, identifying 30 distinct shared genomic segments with genome-wide evidence (p = 2.02E-07–1.30E-18) of segregation with completed suicide. The 207 genes implicated by the shared regions provide a focused set of genes for further study; 18 have been previously associated with suicide risk. Although PsychArray variants do not represent exhaustive variation within the 207 genes, we investigated these for specific segregation within the high-risk families, and for association of variants with predicted functional impact in ~ 1300 additional Utah suicides unrelated to the discovery families. None of the limited PsychArray variants explained the high-risk family segregation; sequencing of these regions will be needed to discover segregating risk variants, which may be rarer or regulatory. However, additional association tests yielded four significant PsychArray variants (SP110, rs181058279; AGBL2, rs76215382; SUCLA2, rs121908538; APH1B, rs745918508), raising the likelihood that these genes confer risk of completed suicide.
Developmental protein kinase C hyper-activation results in microcephaly and behavioral abnormalities in zebrafish
Authors: Liu Taian , Shi Yujian , Chan Matthew T. V. , Peng Gang , Zhang Quan , Sun Xiao , Zhu Zeyao , Xie Yuxin , Sham Kathy W. Y. , Li Jianzhen , Liu Xiaodong , Ho Idy H. T. , Gin Tony , Lu Zhonghua , Wu William K. K. , Cheng Christopher H. K.
Published: October 2018

Susceptible genetic polymorphisms and altered expression levels of protein kinase C (PKC)-encoding genes suggest overactivation of PKC in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) development. To delineate the pathological role of PKC, we pharmacologically stimulated its activity during the early development of zebrafish. Results demonstrated that PKC hyper-activation perturbs zebrafish development and induces a long-lasting head size deficit. The anatomical and cellular analysis revealed reduced neural precursor proliferation and newborn neuron formation. β-Catenin that is essential for brain growth is dramatically degraded. Stabilization of β-catenin by gsk3β inhibition partially restores the head size deficit. In addition, the neuropathogenic effect of developmental PKC hyper-activation was further supported by the alterations in the behavioral domain including motor abnormalities, heightened stress reactivity and impaired habituation learning. Taken together, by causally connecting early-life PKC hyper-activation to these neuropathological traits and the impaired neurogenesis, these results suggest that PKC could be a critical pathway in ASD pathogenesis.
Progressive waves of IL-1β release by primary human monocytes via sequential activation of vesicular and gasdermin D-mediated secretory pathways
Authors: Semino Claudia , Carta Sonia , Gattorno Marco , Sitia Roberto , Rubartelli Anna
Published: October 2018

IL-1β is an essential cytokine, but its release needs to be strictly controlled to avoid severe inflammatory manifestations. Lacking a signal sequence, IL-1β does not follow the endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi route. Several pathways have been proposed to mediate its release. One involves the translocation of pro-IL-1β into intracellular vesicles of lysosomal origin that eventually fuse with the plasma membrane. Another exploits pores formed on the plasma membrane upon proteolytic cleavage of gasdermin D (GSDMD). Here we investigated how primary monocytes—the main source of IL-1β in humans—control IL-1β release in response to pro-inflammatory stimuli of increasing intensity and found that two different routes are induced depending on the strength of activation. Triggering of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) by LPS induces slow IL-1β release through LAMP2A+ vesicles. In contrast, the simultaneous stimulation of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR7/8 drives high levels of ROS, GSDMD cleavage and faster IL-1β secretion. Drugs blocking ROS production prevent GSDMD cleavage supporting a role of oxidative stress in GSDMD-mediated secretion. Singly stimulated monocytes undergo apoptosis, whereas triple stimulation triggers pyroptosis, which might amplify inflammation. In both cases, however, IL-1β secretion precedes cell death. Inhibition of caspases 4/5 prevents GSDMD cleavage and pore-mediated secretion, but not vesicular release. The two pathways also display other distinct pharmacologic sensitivities that reflect the underlying mechanisms. Remarkably, single TLR4 stimulation is sufficient to activate massive, GSDMD-mediated IL-1β secretion in monocytes from patients affected by Cryopyrin Associated Periodic Syndrome (CAPS), an autoinflammatory disease linked to NLRP3 mutations. The exaggerated sensitivity to activation correlates with high basal ROS levels in CAPS monocytes. In conclusion, the vesicular pathway limits IL-1β release upon low pathogen load while stronger stimulation or concomitant cell stress induce instead uncontrolled secretion via GSDMD leading to detrimental inflammatory manifestations.
A reduced M1-like/M2-like ratio of macrophages in healthy adipose tissue expansion during SGLT2 inhibition
Authors: Miyachi Yasutaka , Tsuchiya Kyoichiro , Shiba Kumiko , Mori Kentaro , Komiya Chikara , Ogasawara Naomi , Ogawa Yoshihiro
Published: October 2018

The adipose tissue includes various stromal cells, such as preadipocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, which are involved in adipose tissue functions. We previously reported that, in obese mice, the sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor ipragliflozin (Ipra) promoted the expansion of the epididymal adipose tissue (Epi) with increase of serum ketone body concentration. The Ipra-induced adipose tissue expansion did not deteriorate adipose inflammation, or systemic glucose/lipid metabolism, referred to as “healthy adipose tissue expansion.” Here we found that Ipra promoted healthy adipose tissue expansion with a reduced ratio of pro-inflammatory M1-like adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) to anti-inflammatory M2-like ATMs. Ipra downregulated the gene expression of interleukin (IL)−15 (Il15) in stromal cells of Epi. IL-15 inhibited lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells associated with downregulation of the lipogenic gene. Ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate suppressed Il15 gene induction in M1-polarized cultured macrophages, and a ketogenic diet reproduced the adipose tissue expansion without deteriorating systemic glucose metabolism in mice. Our data indicate that the phenotypic switch of ATMs could mediate healthy adipose tissue expansion by treatment with Ipra, and it may offer new insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms of adipose tissue expansion.
Noninvasive paternal exclusion testing for cystic fibrosis in the first five to eight weeks of gestation
Authors: Zeevi David A. , Zahdeh Fouad , Kling Yehuda , Rosen Tzvia , Renbaum Paul , Ron-El Raphael , Eldar-Geva Talia , Holzer Hananel E. G. , Levy-Lahad Ephrat , Altarescu Gheona
Published: October 2018

Prenatal genetic testing is not generally applicable to the very early stages of pregnancy (prior to week 8 gestation), a time period that is crucial to pregnant couples with high risk for transmission of genetic disease to their fetus. Therefore, we developed a new ultra-sensitive targeted next generation sequencing method for noninvasive haplotype-based paternal allele exclusion testing of the cystic fibrosis-associated gene, CFTR. This new method was compared to a conventional library prep and sequencing analysis method and all test results were validated by amniotic fluid testing at later stages of pregnancy. Out of 7 enrolled couples, who provided at least two blood samples (at least one week apart) for noninvasive CFTR testing, a result was obtained for 6 fetuses. Using the new hypersensitive method, all six couples (100%) received a correct diagnosis for the paternal allele as opposed to 3/6 (50%) when tested with the conventional strategy. Among 4 couples who provided just one early pregnancy blood draw for analysis, diagnosis was possible in one fetus, but only using the ultra-sensitive method. Thus, we describe a novel noninvasive CFTR screening method which demonstrates unprecedented fetal allele typing accuracy in the earliest stages of pregnancy.
Functional polarization of human hepatoma HepaRG cells in response to forskolin
Authors: Mayati Abdullah , Moreau Amélie , Le Vée Marc , Bruyère Arnaud , Jouan Elodie , Denizot Claire , Parmentier Yannick , Fardel Olivier
Published: October 2018

HepaRG is an original human hepatoma cell line, acquiring highly differentiated hepatic features when exposed to dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). To search alternatives to DMSO, which may exert some toxicity, we have analyzed the effects of forskolin (FSK), a cAMP-generating agent known to favor differentiation of various cell types. FSK used at 50 µM for 3 days was found to promote polarization of high density-plated HepaRG cells, i.e., it markedly enhanced the formation of functional biliary canaliculi structures. It also increased expressions of various hepatic markers, including those of cytochrome P-450 (CYP) 3A4, of drug transporters like NTCP, OATP2B1 and BSEP, and of metabolism enzymes like glucose 6-phosphatase. In addition, FSK-treated HepaRG cells displayed enhanced activities of CYP3A4, NTCP and OATPs when compared to untreated cells. These polarizing/differentiating effects of FSK were next shown to reflect not only the generation of cAMP, but also the activation of the xenobiotic sensing receptors PXR and FXR by FSK. Co-treatment of HepaRG cells by the cAMP analog Sp-5,6-DCl-cBIMPS and the reference PXR agonist rifampicin reproduced the polarizing effects of FSK. Therefore, FSK may be considered as a relevant alternative to DMSO for getting polarized and differentiated HepaRG cells, notably for pharmacological and toxicological studies.
i-BLESS is an ultra-sensitive method for detection of DNA double-strand breaks
Authors: Biernacka Anna , Zhu Yingjie , Skrzypczak Magdalena , Forey Romain , Pardo Benjamin , Grzelak Marta , Nde Jules , Mitra Abhishek , Kudlicki Andrzej , Crosetto Nicola , Pasero Philippe , Rowicka Maga , Ginalski Krzysztof
Published: October 2018

Maintenance of genome stability is a key issue for cell fate that could be compromised by chromosome deletions and translocations caused by DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Thus development of precise and sensitive tools for DSBs labeling is of great importance for understanding mechanisms of DSB formation, their sensing and repair. Until now there has been no high resolution and specific DSB detection technique that would be applicable to any cells regardless of their size. Here, we present i-BLESS, a universal method for direct genome-wide DNA double-strand break labeling in cells immobilized in agarose beads. i-BLESS has three key advantages: it is the only unbiased method applicable to yeast, achieves a sensitivity of one break at a given position in 100,000 cells, and eliminates background noise while still allowing for fixation of samples. The method allows detection of ultra-rare breaks such as those forming spontaneously at G-quadruplexes.
The Dat Project, an open and decentralized research data tool
Authors: Robinson Danielle C. , Hand Joe A. , Madsen Mathias Buus , McKelvey Karissa R.
Published: October 2018

Today’s scientific data are primarily stored and accessed via centralized Web-based infrastructure. Centralization has advantages but also carries risks such as link rot and content drift, which can hinder scientific progress. It is time to ask whether traditional, centralized Web architecture aligns with scholarly priorities and values, and to collaboratively move towards new approaches that do.
First draft genome sequence of the rock bream in the family Oplegnathidae
Authors: Shin Younhee , Jung Myunghee , Shin Ga-hee , Jung Ho-jin , Baek Su-Jin , Lee Gi-Yong , Kang Byeong-Chul , Shim Jaeyoung , Hong Ji-man , Park Jung Youn , An Cheul Min , Kim Young-Ok , Noh Jae Koo , Kim Ju-Won , Nam Bo-Hye , Park Chan-Il
Published: October 2018

The rock bream (Oplegnathus fasciatus) is one of the most economically valuable marine fish in East Asia, and due to various environmental factors, there is substantial revenue loss in the production sector. Therefore, knowledge of its genome is required to uncover the genetic factors and the solutions to these problems. In this study, we constructed the first draft genome of O. fasciatus as a reference for the family Oplegnathidae. The genome size is estimated to be 749 Mb, and it was assembled into 766 Mb by combining Illumina and PacBio sequences. A total of 24,053 transcripts (23,338 genes) are predicted, and among those transcripts, 23,362 (97%), are annotated with functional terms. Finally, the completeness of the genome assembly was assessed by CEGMA, which resulted in the complete mapping of 220 (88.7%) core genes in the genome. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first draft genome for the family Oplegnathidae.
A review of sorting, separation and isolation of cells and microbeads for biomedical applications: microfluidic approaches
Authors: Dalili Arash , Samiei Ehsan , Hoorfar Mina
Published: October 2018

We have reviewed the microfluidic approaches for cell/particle isolation and sorting, and extensively explained the mechanism behind each method.
A facile route to prepare functional mesoporous organosilica spheres with electroactive units for chiral recognition of amino acids
Authors: Wu Datong , Tan Wensheng , Li Hongda , Lei Zhangchen , Deng Linhong , Kong Yong
Published: October 2018

Functional mesoporous organosilica spheres with electroactive units were prepared for chiral recognition of amino acids.
Advances in mass spectrometry based single-cell metabolomics
Authors: Duncan Kyle D. , Fyrestam Jonas , Lanekoff Ingela
Published: October 2018

Single cell metabolomics using mass spectrometry can contribute to understanding biological activities in health and disease.
Two-photon imaging of the endoplasmic reticulum thiol flux in the brains of mice with depression phenotypes
Authors: Li Ping , Shi Xiaohui , Xiao Haibin , Ding Qi , Bai Xiaoyi , Wu Chuanchen , Zhang Wen , Tang Bo
Published: October 2018

Two-photon fluorescent probe ER-SH was used to selectively and sensitively monitor the ER thiol flux in the brains of mice with depression phenotypes.
Combined heterologies for monoclonal antibody-based immunoanalysis of fluxapyroxad
Authors: Ceballos-Alcantarilla Eric , López-Puertollano Daniel , Agulló Consuelo , Abad-Fuentes Antonio , Abad-Somovilla Antonio , Mercader Josep V.
Published: October 2018

Fluxapyroxad high-affinity antibody generation and sensitive immunoassay development from a suitable hapten design.
Catalyst free, C-3 functionalization of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines to rapidly access new chemical space for drug discovery efforts
Authors: Gunaganti Naresh , Kharbanda Anupreet , Lakkaniga Naga Rajiv , Zhang Lingtian , Cooper Rose , Li Hong-yu , Frett Brendan
Published: October 2018

Development of a multicomponent reaction to functionalize the C-3 position of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines via a three component, decarboxylation protocol.
Site-selective metallation of dicarbene precursors
Authors: Bente Stefanie , Kampert Florian , Tan Tristan T. Y. , Hahn F. Ekkehardt
Published: October 2018

Heterobimetallic bis-NHC complexes have been obtained by the site-selective metallation of imidazolium/2-chlorobenzimidazole bis-NHC precursors using two different reactions.
Effect of rGO–Fe2O3 nanocomposites fabricated in different solvents on the thermal decomposition properties of ammonium perchlorate
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhao Fengqi , Yang Yanjing , Zhang Jiankan , Li Na , Gao Hongxu
Published: October 2018

rGO–Fe2O3 composites were fabricated using different solvents via a solvothermal method, and used for thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP).
Colossal dielectric permittivity in Co-doped ZnO ceramics prepared by a pressure-less sintering method
Authors: Pessoni H. V. S. , Banerjee P. , Franco A.
Published: October 2018

Dielectric properties and impedance spectroscopic studies of single phase Zn1−xCoxO (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.05) ceramics, synthesized by a pressure-less solid state reaction method, have been carried out to investigate the origin of colossal dielectric permittivity (CP), ε′ ∼ 105, in a wide frequency (2 × 101–2 × 106 Hz) range.
Nature of cucurbituril–halogen encapsulation. Structural and interaction energy consideration in the X2@CB[n] (X = Cl, Br, I,n= 6, 7, 8) from relativistic DFT calculations
Authors: Olea Ulloa Carolina , Ponce-Vargas Miguel , Muñoz-Castro Alvaro
Published: October 2018

The versatility in the formation of host–guest species between the cucurbituril host and the dihalogen guest is studiedviaDFT calculations.
Novel electronic structures and enhanced optical properties of boron phosphide/blue phosphorene and F4TCNQ/blue phosphorene heterostructures: a DFT + NEGF study
Authors: Du Leqian , Zheng Kai , Cui Heping , Wang Yunhao , Tao Luqi , Chen Xianping
Published: October 2018

Blue phosphorene (Blue-p), an allotrope of black phosphorene, has attracted extensive interest due to its hexagonal crystal with a flat arranged layer of phosphorus atoms.
Interaction of gold nanosurfaces/nanoparticles with collagen-like peptides
Authors: Tang Ming , Gandhi Neha S. , Burrage Kevin , Gu YuanTong
Published: October 2018

Collagen unfolding on gold nanoparticles, demonstrating the health risk of bare gold nanoparticles.
Unidirectional supramolecular self-assembly inside nanocorrals via in situ STM nanoshaving
Authors: Verstraete Lander , Smart Jansie , Hirsch Brandon E. , De Feyter Steven
Published: October 2018

The rotational degeneracy of the substrate is lifted when 2D supramolecular self-assembly is spatially confined via in situ STM nanoshaving.
Textured interfaces in monolithic perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells: advanced light management for improved efficiency and energy yield
Authors: Jošt Marko , Köhnen Eike , Morales-Vilches Anna Belen , Lipovšek Benjamin , Jäger Klaus , Macco Bart , Al-Ashouri Amran , Krč Janez , Korte Lars , Rech Bernd , Schlatmann Rutger , Topič Marko , Stannowski Bernd , Albrecht Steve
Published: October 2018

25.5% efficiency is demonstrated for monolithic perovskite/silicon tandem solar cell using textured foil and the impact of texture position on performance and energy yield is simulated.