bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and Electron‐Transport Properties of Anion‐Deficient MoTe2: A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Jana Manoj K. , Singh Anjali , Sampath Archana , Rao C. N. R. , Waghmare Umesh V.
Published: November 2016

We present experimental measurements and first‐principles theoretical analysis of high‐temperature electron‐transport properties of polycrystalline Te‐deficient 2H‐ and 1T′‐MoTe2–x. Electron transport measurements in the temperature range 300–673 K show that polycrystalline 2H‐MoTe2–x exhibits two regimes of activated conduction: hopping of defect‐induced localized carriers at lower temperatures and an extended state conduction at higher temperatures. Its Seebeck coefficient changes from p‐type to n‐type around 497 K peaking near 370 K, which is ascribed to mixed conduction of carriers. In contrast, 1T′‐MoTe2–x exhibits metallic conduction up to 300 K beyond which conductivity slightly increases due to thermal excitation of the minority carriers. 2H‐ and 1T′ forms of MoTe2–x exhibit thermal conductivity with opposite temperature‐dependence due to dominant electronic thermal conductivity in the latter. Using first‐principles calculations based on density functional theory, we determine the nature of defect states associated with Te‐vacancies in 2H‐, 1T′‐ and Td‐MoTe2–x. The defect bands associated with Te vacancies appear within the gap of 2H‐MoTe2 and in the pseudo gap of 1T′‐MoTe2, thereby reducing the bandgap of the former and making the latter more metallic. These defect states are crucial to understanding the observed trends in the temperature‐dependent transport properties of Te‐deficient 2H‐ and 1T′‐MoTe2–x.
Non‐conventional Synthesis of the 413 MAX Phase V4AlC3
Authors: Hamm Christin M. , Schäfer Timo , Zhang Hongbin , Birkel Christina S.
Published: November 2016

V4AlC3 belongs to the intriguing class of materials of so‐called MAX phases that are ternary carbides and nitrides crystallizing in a layered crystal structure with space group P63/mmc. They exhibit excellent mechanical properties combining characteristics of metals as well as ceramics. The synthesis of single‐phase products is far from being trivial since high temperatures are required, while most competing phases are also thermodynamically stable. Herein, we show the non‐conventional solid‐state preparation by susceptor‐assisted microwave heating within 60 min. The crystallinity of the nearly single‐phase compound is enhanced by subsequent densification using the spark plasma sintering technique. The formation mechanism of V4AlC3 is investigated by means of thermoanalysis. Intermediate as well as final products are characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction techniques.
Benzimidazolium Lead Halide Perovskites: Effects of Anion Substitution and Dimensionality on the Bandgap
Authors: Lermer Claudia , Harm Sascha P. , Birkhold Susanne T. , Jaser Julian A. , Kutz Christopher M. , Mayer Peter , Schmidt‐Mende Lukas , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: November 2016

We present the synthesis and structural characterization of a series of benzimidazolium‐based lead halide perovskites including (C7H7N2)2PbCl4, (C7H7N2)2PbBr4, (C7H7N2)2PbI4, and (C7H7N2)PbI3, which serves as a platform to investigate the change in optical properties as a function of the halide and the dimensionality of the inorganic sublattice. The structural similarity of the layered systems with A2MX4 stoichiometry was verified by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and solid‐state NMR spectroscopy. The optical properties were analyzed by absorption and photoluminescence (PL) measurements, confirming the decrease in bandgap when exchanging the chloride with its higher homologues Br and I. In addition, comparison of the layered compound (C7H7N2)2PbI4 with the known compound (C7H7N2)PbI3 reveals an increase in bandgap on going from a 2D to a dimensionally reduced 1D topology. Besides, significant differences in the PL spectra of the halides are observed, which likely are due to recombination of self‐trapped excitons stabilized through lattice distortions or permanent lattice defects in the compounds featuring broad PL emission bands.
The Reagent‐depending Nitration of 1,3‐Dihydroxyacetone Dimer
Authors: Hermann Tobias S. , Klapötke Thomas M. , Krumm Burkhard , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: November 2016

Two highly energetic nitric acid esters were synthesized from the dimer of dihydroxyacetone. 1,3‐Dinitratoacetone (1) and its dimer 2,5‐bis(nitratomethyl‐2,5‐nitrato)‐1,4‐dioxane (2) were characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, vibrational spectroscopy (IR and Raman), multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. The thermal behavior was investigated with DTA measurements. Although showing the same atomic stoichiometry, dimer 2 shows significantly higher sensitivities measured by BAM methods (drophammer and friction tester). Due to the high oxygen content of 62.2 %, 1 and 2 were evaluated as potential high energy dense oxidizers.
Pegida and the Alternative FüR Deutschland: Two Sides of the Same Coin?
Authors: Grabow Karsten
Published: November 2016

Over the last two years Germany has experienced a significant growth of nationalist, anti-Islamic and xenophobic forces. While the movement Patriotic Europeans Against the Islamisation of the West (Patriotische Europäer gegen die Islamisierung des Abendlandes, PEGIDA) has been mobilising protest on the ground in the Saxon capital, the Alternative for Germany (Alternative für Deutschland, AfD) has continually increased its number of seats in state parliaments, with a fundamental rejection of the refugee policy of the federal government. Since the election of a new leadership of the AfD in the summer of 2015, one can observe signs of rapprochement between these two organisations. In this paper I argue that the AfD and PEGIDA are two sides of the same coin. Further approximation and collaboration will depend on the outcome of lasting internal power struggles inside the AfD.
Brain amyloid in preclinical Alzheimer's disease is associated with increased driving risk
Authors: Ott Brian R. , Jones Richard N. , Noto Richard B. , Yoo Don C. , Snyder Peter J. , Bernier Justine N. , Carr David B. , Roe Catherine M.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Postmortem studies suggest that fibrillar brain amyloid places people at higher risk for hazardous driving in the preclinical stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

We administered driving questionnaires to 104 older drivers (19 AD, 24 mild cognitive impairment, and 61 cognitive normal) who had a recent 18F‐florbetapir positron emission tomography scan. We examined associations of amyloid standardized uptake value ratios with driving behaviors: traffic violations or accidents in the past 3 years.

Results

The frequency of violations or accidents was curvilinear with respect to standardized uptake value ratios, peaking around a value of 1.1 (model r2 = 0.10, P = .002); moreover, this relationship was evident for the cognitively normal participants.

Discussion

We found that driving risk is strongly related to accumulating amyloid on positron emission tomography, and that this trend is evident in the preclinical stage of AD. Brain amyloid burden may in part explain the increased crash risk reported in older adults.
Volar Dislocation of the Metacarpophalangeal Joint of the Ring Finger Complicated with Chondrolysis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Keung Lai Kam , Fai Leung Yuen
Published: November 2016

Volar dislocation of the metacarpophalangeal joint is rare injury. In the literature consulted only seven cases of isolated volar dislocation of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the ring finger have been published. Chondrolysis associated with the metacarpophalangeal joint dislocation has not been reported in the English literature. In this paper, an unusual case of volar dislocation of the metacarpophalangeal joint is presented and a review of the literature is described.
Psychometric Properties of Two Self-Report Suicide Assessment and Intervention Competency Measures in a Sample of Vocational Rehabilitation Support Staff
Authors: Lund Emily M. , Schultz Jared C. , Nadorff Michael R. , Galbraith Kate , Thomas Katie B.
Published: November 2016

We analysed the psychometric properties of two published self-report suicide assessment competency rating scales – the Suicide Competency Inventory (SCI) and the Suicide Competency Assessment Form (SCAF) – in a sample of 93 public-sector vocational rehabilitation support staff from six states in the United States. Both measures demonstrated very good to excellent internal consistency in our sample. Exploratory factor analysis with principal axis factoring indicated the SCI loads on a two-factor model in this sample, as opposed to the three-factor model proposed by the measure's authors. The SCAF loaded on a single factor, consistent with the theoretical model proposed by the original authors. The SCI and SCAF were highly correlated with each other, providing initial evidence of convergent construct validity. These results provide initial support for the use of these measures as a reliable and valid means of assessing perceived suicide assessment competency in vocational rehabilitation support staff.
Size at first maturity of Brachidontes rodriguezii (d'Orbigny, 1846) from the South-western Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Torroglosa María Eugenia , Giménez Juliana
Published: November 2016

The size at first maturity of the bivalve Brachidontes rodriguezii was estimated in a population located in the northernmost limit of its distribution along Argentinean coast. Specimens were collected in two consecutive reproductive seasons from December 2011 to February 2012 and from December 2012 to February 2013. Individuals were evaluated using biometric and histological analyses of the gonads. This study intended to provide important information about the development of gonadal tissue according to shell length increase. Our results showed immature specimens lack gonads or exhibited groups of cells undergoing mitosis adjacent to the epithelium of the mantle and the tubules of the digestive gland. Male and female gonad development extended to mantle lobes and visceral mass as long as maturation occurred to reach sexual maturity. Using a logistic model our results showed that the size at which 50% of females were mature at a gonadal level was 7.05 mm in shell length; in males, 50% of the population were mature at 8.13 mm in shell length. The minimum shell length at which maturity was observed was 6.99 mm in shell length in females and 6.00 mm in shell length for males.
Potential immunological markers for diagnosis of human strongyloidiasis using heterologous antigens
Authors: CORRAL M. A. , PAULA F. M. , MEISEL D. M. C. L. , CASTILHO V. L. P. , GONÇALVES E. M. N. , LEVY D. , BYDLOWSKI S. P. , CHIEFFI P. P. , CASTRO-BORGES W. , GRYSCHEK R. C. B.
Published: November 2016

Strongyloides venezuelensisis a parasitic nematode of rodents that is frequently used to obtain heterologous antigens for immunological diagnosis of human strongyloidiasis. The aim of this study was to identify antigens from filariform larvae ofS. venezuelensisfor immunodiagnosis of human strongyloidiasis. Soluble and membrane fractions from filariform larvae ofS. venezuelensiswere obtained in phosphate saline (SS and SM) and in Tris–HCl buffer (TS and TM), and were analysed by Western blotting. Different antigenic components were recognized by IgG antibodies from the sera of strongyloidiasis patients. Highest recognition was observed for a 30–40 kDa mass range present in all antigenic fractions. The band encompassing this mass range was then excised and subjected to mass spectrometry for protein identification. Immunoreactive proteins identified in the soluble fractions corresponded to metabolic enzymes, whereas cytoskeletal proteins and galectins were more abundant in the membrane fractions. These results represent the first approach towards identification ofS. venezuelensisantigens for use in immunodiagnostic assays for human strongyloidiasis.
Plasmodium knowlesi and human malaria parasites in Khan Phu, Vietnam: Gametocyte production in humans and frequent co-infection of mosquitoes
Authors: MAENO Y. , CULLETON R. , QUANG N. T. , KAWAI S. , MARCHAND R. P. , NAKAZAWA S.
Published: November 2016

Four species of malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium knowlesi infect humans living in the Khanh Phu commune, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam. The latter species also infects wild macaque monkeys in this region. In order to understand the transmission dynamics of the three species, we attempted to detect gametocytes of the three species in the blood of infected individuals, and sporozoites in the salivary glands of mosquitoes from the same region. For the detection of gametocyte-specific mRNA, we targeted region 3 of pfg377, pvs25, pmg and pks25 as indicators of the presence of P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae and P. knowlesi gametocytes, respectively. Gametocyte-specific mRNA was present in 37, 61, 0 and 47% of people infected with P. falciparum (n = 95), P. vivax (n = 69), P. malariae (n = 6) or P. knowlesi (n = 32), respectively. We found that 70% of mosquitoes that had P. knowlesi in their salivary glands also carried human malaria parasites, suggesting that mosquitoes are infected with P. knowlesi from human infections.
Evolution of host range in the follicle mite Demodex kutzeri
Authors: PALOPOLI MICHAEL F. , TRA VAN , MATOIN KASSEY , MAC PHUONG D.
Published: November 2016

The sequences of four mitochondrial genes were determined for Demodex mites isolated from two distantly related species within the family Cervidae, and identified morphologically as belonging to the species Demodex kutzeri. The sequences were used to test the hypothesis that Demodex are strictly host-specific, and hence cospeciate with their hosts: (1) The estimated divergence time between mites found on elk vs humans agreed closely with a previous estimate of the time that these host species last shared a common ancestor, suggesting cospeciation of mites and hosts, at least over long evolutionary timescales. (2) The extremely low levels of sequence divergence between the mites found on elk vs mule deer hosts indicated that these mites belong to the same species, which suggests that Demodex are able to move across host species boundaries over shorter timescales. Together, the results are consistent with the model that Demodex mites are not strict host-specialists, but instead lose the ability to move between host lineages gradually.
Pervasive influence of maternal and paternal criminal offending on early childhood development: a population data linkage study
Authors: Laurens K. R. , Tzoumakis S. , Kariuki M. , Green M. J. , Hamde M. , Harris F. , Carr V. J. , Dean K.
Published: November 2016

Background

Parental criminal offending is an established risk factor for offending among offspring, but little evidence is available indicating the impact of offending on early childhood functioning. We used data from a large Australian population cohort to determine associations between exposure to parental offending and a range of developmental outcomes at age 5 years.

Method

Multi-generation data in 66 477 children and their parents from the New South Wales Child Development Study were combined using data linkage. Logistic and multinomial regressions tested associations between any and violent offending histories of parents (fathers, mothers, or both parents) obtained from official records, and multiple measures of early childhood developmental functioning (social, emotional–behavioural, cognitive, communication and physical domains) obtained from the teacher-reported 2009 Australian Early Development Census.

Results

Parental offending conferred significantly increased risk of vulnerability on all domains, particularly the cognitive domain. Greater risk magnitudes were observed for offending by both parents and by mothers than by fathers, and for violent than for any offending. For all parental offending exposures, vulnerability on multiple domains (where medium to large effects were observed) was more likely than on a single domain (small to medium effects). Relationships remained significant and of comparable magnitude following adjustment for sociodemographic covariates.

Conclusions

The effect of parental offending on early childhood developmental outcomes is pervasive, with the strongest effects on functioning apparent when both parents engage in violent offending. Supporting affected families in early childhood might mitigate both early developmental vulnerability and the propensity for later delinquency among these offspring.
Affective lability mediates the association between childhood trauma and suicide attempts, mixed episodes and co-morbid anxiety disorders in bipolar disorders
Authors: Aas M. , Henry C. , Bellivier F. , Lajnef M. , Gard S. , Kahn J.-P. , Lagerberg T. V. , Aminoff S. R. , Bjella T. , Leboyer M. , Andreassen O. A. , Melle I. , Etain B.
Published: November 2016

Background

Many studies have shown associations between a history of childhood trauma and more severe or complex clinical features of bipolar disorders (BD), including suicide attempts and earlier illness onset. However, the psychopathological mechanisms underlying these associations are still unknown. Here, we investigated whether affective lability mediates the relationship between childhood trauma and the severe clinical features of BD.

Method

A total of 342 participants with BD were recruited from France and Norway. Diagnosis and clinical characteristics were assessed using the Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies (DIGS) or the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I disorders (SCID-I). Affective lability was measured using the short form of the Affective Lability Scale (ALS-SF). A history of childhood trauma was assessed using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). Mediation analyses were performed using the SPSSprocessmacro.

Results

Using the mediation model and covariation for the lifetime number of major mood episodes, affective lability was found to statistically mediate the relationship between childhood trauma experiences and several clinical variables, including suicide attempts, mixed episodes and anxiety disorders. No significant mediation effects were found for rapid cycling or age at onset.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that affective lability may represent a psychological dimension that mediates the association between childhood traumatic experiences and the risk of a more severe or complex clinical expression of BD.
The Singing Sage: rhymes in Confucius dialogues
Authors: Weingarten Oliver
Published: November 2016

The present article explores uses of verse in direct speech attributed to Confucius (551–479bce) within works compiled mainly during the Han dynasty (206bce–220ce). Analysing short prose narratives and dialogues, the article investigates a poeticized debate, in which versified proverbs or apothegms are employed as tools of argumentation. In addition I examine the mnemonic function of reiterated rhymes on politics, and emotive song as an expression of thwarted ambition, purportedly revealing glimpses at Confucius's inner life; and libretto-like records of dramatic encounters whose participants exchange verse. The goal of the investigation is twofold. First, it demonstrates how, in early imperial China, the image of Confucius was remoulded to fulfil different functions and satisfy diverse needs beyond his by now familiar role as philosopher and as patron saint of an intellectual tradition and state ideology. Second, it draws attention to the riches of stylistic nuance and functional variety exhibited by early Chinese writings, which have so far hardly been tapped.
An experimental approach to linguistic representation
Authors: Branigan Holly P. , Pickering Martin J.
Published: November 2016

Within the cognitive sciences, most researchers assume that it is the job of linguists to investigate how language is represented, and that they do so largely by building theories based on explicit judgments about patterns of acceptability – whereas it is the task of psychologists to determine how language is processed, and that in doing so, they do not typically question the linguists' representational assumptions. We challenge this division of labor by arguing that structural priming provides an implicit method of investigating linguistic representations that should end the current reliance on acceptability judgments. Moreover, structural priming has now reached sufficient methodological maturity to provide substantial evidence about such representations. We argue that evidence from speakers' tendency to repeat their own and others' structural choices supports a linguistic architecture involving a single shallow level of syntax connected to a semantic level containing information about quantification, thematic relations, and information structure, as well as to a phonological level. Many of the linguistic distinctions often used to support complex (or multilevel) syntactic structure are instead captured by semantics; however, the syntactic level includes some specification of “missing” elements that are not realized at the phonological level. We also show that structural priming provides evidence about the consistency of representations across languages and about language development. In sum, we propose that structural priming provides a new basis for understanding the nature of language.
Effect of a spiritual care training program for staff on patient outcomes
Authors: Yang Grace Meijuan , Tan Yung Ying , Cheung Yin Bun , Lye Weng Kit , Lim Sock Hui Amy , Ng Wan Ru , Puchalski Christina , Neo Patricia Soek Hui
Published: November 2016

Objective:

Physicians and nurses do not assess spirituality routinely, even though spiritual care is a vital part of palliative care for patients with an advanced serious illness. The aim of our study was to determine whether a training program for healthcare professionals on spirituality and the taking of a spiritual history would result in improved patient quality of life (QoL) and spiritual well-being.

Method:

This was a cluster-controlled trial of a spiritual care training program for palliative care doctors and nurses. Three of seven clinical teams (clusters) received the intervention, while the other four served as controls. Included patients were newly referred to the palliative care service, had an estimated survival of more than one month, and were aware of their diagnosis and prognosis. The primary outcome measure was the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Spiritual Well-Being (FACIT–Sp) patient-reported questionnaire, which patients completed at two timepoints. Total FACIT–Sp score includes the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General (FACT–G) questionnaire, which measures overall quality of life, as well as a spiritual well-being score.

Results:

Some 144 patients completed the FACIT–Sp at both timepoints—74 in the control group and 70 in the intervention group. The change in overall quality of life, measured by change in FACT–G scores, was 3.89 points (95% confidence interval [CI95%] = –0.42 to 8.19,p= 0.076) higher in the intervention group than in the control group. The difference between the intervention and control groups in terms of change in spiritual well-being was 0.32 (CI95%= –2.23 to 2.88,p= 0.804).

Significance of results:

A brief spiritual care training program can possibly help bring about enhanced improvement of global patient QoL, but the effect on patients' spiritual well-being was not as evident in our participants. Further study with larger sample sizes is needed to allow for more definite conclusions to be drawn.
Natural allelic variation in blueberry TERMINAL FLOWER 1
Authors: Gaire Rupesh , Wilde H. Dayton
Published: November 2016

A blueberry (Vacciniumsp.) germplasm collection was screened for allelic variation inTERMINAL FLOWER 1(TFL1) that could be used in breeding flowering or architecture traits. TFL1 has been found to repress the transition from vegetative to reproductive growth in diverse plant species, with mutations leading to altered flowering and form. TheVcTFL1gene sequence was determined from the draft genome sequence of diploidV. corymbosumline W8520.VcTFL1is a member of a PEBP gene family and it could be distinguished from its family members by sequence comparison with PEBP family genes from other plants. High-resolution DNA melting analysis of 160Vacciniumaccessions detectedVcTFL1exons that differed in sequence from the W8520 control. DNA sequence analysis confirmed the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and identified haplotypes of tetraploid accessions. A total of 18 SNP sites were detected inVcTFL1coding sequences of theVacciniumgermplasm screened. A SNP causing an alanine-to-valine change in exon 4 (A159V) was determined by multiple bioinformatic tools to be deleterious toVcTFL1function. A diploidV. corymbosumaccession heterozygous for theVcTFL1mutation was identified as a candidate for breeding novel traits for blueberry.
GLOSSA ORDINARIAANDGLOSSA HEBRAICAMIDRASH IN RASHI AND THEGLOSS
Authors: WILLIAMS BENJAMIN
Published: November 2016

An assiduous interest in the plain sense of Scripture and shared interpretations of particular biblical passages can be observed in certain twelfth-century Jewish and Christian commentaries composed in northern France. While Hugh of Saint Victor and Rashbam engaged in independent endeavors to shed light on thesensus literalisand thepeshatof Scripture, Andrew of Saint Victor attributed his knowledge of particular rabbinic interpretations to encounters with contemporary Jews. Yet points of convergence in Jewish and Christian exegesis can be observed even before the work of the Victorines and Rashi's disciples. The purpose of this study is to examine the midrashic interpretations transmitted in northern France around the beginning of the twelfth century in both theGlossa Ordinariaand Rashi's biblical commentaries. Interpretations are found in both corpora on occasions when their late-antique sources, such as Midrash Genesis Rabba and Jerome'sHebrew Questions on Genesis, themselves transmit similar insights. By analyzing an exposition found in both Rashi and theGloss, the narrative of Abraham in the fiery furnace, this study seeks to clarify the nature and extent of this relationship. It thereby enables a more detailed understanding of the ways that midrash reached twelfth-century Jews and Christians and of how Rashi and theGlossensured the wide dissemination of these interpretations.
“PER CLERUM ET POPULUM”? LEGAL TERMINOLOGY AND EPISCOPAL APPOINTMENTS IN DENMARK 1059–1225
Authors: CIARDI ANNA MINARA
Published: November 2016

The phrase per clerum et populum (“by clergy and people”) was traditionally used to describe how the election of a bishop had been or should be undertaken. Over the course of the twelfth century this changed. Ecclesiastical legislation was step by step revised and codified. The aim of the reformers was to safeguard the autonomy of the Church and to reduce lay influence. The purposes of this article are, first, to examine legal terminology in the context of episcopal appointments from 1059 to 1215, with special reference to the formula per clerum et populum and the role of cathedral chapters as electoral bodies; second, to examine how episcopal appointments were actually undertaken and what terminology was used in the kingdom of Denmark until circa 1225; and, third, to share some ideas about the development of canon law in the context of “cathedral culture.” My conclusions are, first, that the mode of election per clerum et populum was gradually replaced and eventually became invalid, parallel to a legal development where cathedral chapters became the “proper” electoral body; second, that the monastic ideals of ecclesiastical freedom prompted by the reformers are evident in normative texts from cathedral chapters in Denmark already in the first quarter of the twelfth century; and, finally, that the legal developments strongly contributed to the formation of capitular institutions and a specific cathedral culture, which was rooted in monasticism but also differed from it, not least with regard to its legal functions.
TOPICS OF ARISTOTLE'SPROTREPTICUSIN AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO THE TRANSMISSION OF CICERO AND THE CONTEXT OF THEIR USE
Authors: MEGINO RODRIGUEZ CARLOS
Published: November 2016

St. Augustine's knowledge of Aristotle was precarious and indirect. However, we find in his work traces of topics that seem to come from Aristotle's exoteric works, specifically theProtrepticus. These topics came to St. Augustine's knowledge through Cicero'sHortensius, as scholars already know. However, hitherto there has not been a study that jointly executes the following three tasks: analyze these topics systematically in order to discuss in a critical and updated way their nature and relevance; study what role Cicero played in their transmission; and examine St. Augustine's use of them in relation to the context in which he quotes them. I carry out this triple task in the present article.
NEW INSIGHTS, OLD TEXTS CLERICAL FORMATION AND THE CAROLINGIAN RENEWAL IN HRABANUS MAURUS
Authors: PHELAN OWEN M.
Published: November 2016

Hrabanus Maurus'sDe institutione clericorumis a masterpiece of clerical formation, emblematic of the Carolingian Renewal and esteemed by thinkers throughout the Middle Ages. In the third book, Hrabanus juxtaposes Augustine's teachings inDe doctrina christianawith Gregory the Great's instruction in theRegula pastoralisto craft an original case for a close connection between wisdom and moral life in priestly training. Hrabanus's effort concretizes long-standing concerns of Carolingian reformers reiterated in landmark reform documents from the late eighth and early ninth centuries. Moreover, throughout his life, Hrabanus periodically returns to his work on priestly formation for words and ideas to undergird subsequent efforts at integrating education with pastoral practice in a variety of genres, including his model sermons, his encyclopedic commentary, and his handbook for missionary conversion. In addition to highlighting Hrabanus's individual genius as one who adroitly applies traditional authorities in novel ways to contemporary problems, this study illumines the crucial role played by monasteries like Fulda as engines for the Carolingian reform.
ASPECTS AND PROBLEMS OF THE TEMPLARS' RELIGIOUS PRESENCE IN MEDIEVAL EUROPE FROM THE TWELFTH TO THE EARLY FOURTEENTH CENTURY
Authors: SCHENK JOCHEN
Published: November 2016

The medieval military orders were religious institutions whose members had professed a life of combat and prayer that integrated them into a religious landscape sharply defined by diversity. And yet still very little is known about the military orders’ religious functions in the dioceses in which they held ecclesiastical possessions. By focusing on one military order in particular, the Order of the Temple, this study aims to achieve two goals: first, to provide a critical overview of recent scholarship in the emerging field of military order (and especially Templar) religion, and second, to examine aspects of Templar religious involvement in medieval society in general and the reactions of senior clergymen to the Templars’ religious engagement on the parish level in particular. It argues that the Templars proved very keen to expand their network of parish churches and that in so doing they proved willing to engage with the lay public on a much larger scale than has hitherto been believed.
THE THIRTEENTH-CENTURY CODIFICATION OF THE FUEROS DE ARAGÓN
Authors: SPEED JENNIFER
Published: November 2016

This essay examines sources related to the creation and promulgation of the first codification of Aragonese territorial law in the mid-thirteenth century. The Fueros de Aragón have proven to be one of Europe's most durable bodies of laws, having persisted in some form or another for more than a millennium. In exploring the process by which Aragonese law was first codified, this essay expands our understanding of the evolution of medieval law. At the same time, it offers an occasion for questioning the origins of a written legal tradition that has defined historical and contemporary conceptions of Aragonese political identity within Spain. Of particular interest here is the tension that exists between longstanding assumptions about the origins of the first code of Aragonese law and the medieval sources that have something to say about it. In order to discern the process by which the fueros were codified, this essay scrutinizes the narrative prologues to multiple Latin and romance texts of the Fueros de Aragón as they are found in medieval manuscripts and early printed texts. The essay also considers the implications that these findings have for ongoing scholarship on the institutionalization of the Fueros de Aragón in Aragonese history.
Spielend zum souveränen Auftritt
Authors: Schröder Sabine
Published: November 2016

Zusammenfassung. Wer vor Publikum auftreten muss, bereitet die Inhalte oft minutiös vor. Dem «Wie» einer Präsentation und dem eigenen Auftreten wird hingegen oft nur am Rande Beachtung geschenkt. Ein Workshop für Studierende der Höheren Fachschule Pflege hat mit Elementen aus der Theaterpädagogik an diesem Punkt angesetzt. Im Zentrum stand nicht die Bewältigung von individuellen Defiziten, sondern das Finden einer Grundhaltung: «Es gelingt».
Fundraising für die Pflegeschule
Authors: Dietrich Christopher
Published: November 2016

Zusammenfassung. Innovationen an Schulen werden zwar angedacht, können aber oft aufgrund ihres Preises nicht umgesetzt werden. Fundraising bietet die Möglichkeit, kostenintensive Neuerungen umzusetzen.
A unified molecular mechanism for the regulation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase by phosphorylation
Authors: Wei Jia , Zhang Yixiao , Yu Tai-Yuan , Sadre-Bazzaz Kianoush , Rudolph Michael J , Amodeo Gabriele A , Symington Lorraine S , Walz Thomas , Tong Liang
Published: November 2016

Acetyl-CoA carboxylases (ACCs) are crucial metabolic enzymes and attractive targets for drug discovery. Eukaryotic acetyl-CoA carboxylases are 250 kDa single-chain, multi-domain enzymes and function as dimers and higher oligomers. Their catalytic activity is tightly regulated by phosphorylation and other means. Here we show that yeast ACC is directly phosphorylated by the protein kinase SNF1 at residue Ser1157, which potently inhibits the enzyme. Crystal structure of three ACC central domains (AC3–AC5) shows that the phosphorylated Ser1157 is recognized by Arg1173, Arg1260, Tyr1113 and Ser1159. The R1173A/R1260A double mutant is insensitive to SNF1, confirming that this binding site is crucial for regulation. Electron microscopic studies reveal dramatic conformational changes in the holoenzyme upon phosphorylation, likely owing to the dissociation of the biotin carboxylase domain dimer. The observations support a unified molecular mechanism for the regulation of ACC by phosphorylation as well as by the natural product soraphen A, a potent inhibitor of eukaryotic ACC. These molecular insights enhance our understanding of acetyl-CoA carboxylase regulation and provide a basis for drug discovery.
Refined experimental annotation reveals conserved corrinoid autotrophy in chloroform-respiring Dehalobacter isolates
Authors: Wang Po-Hsiang , Tang Shuiquan , Nemr Kayla , Flick Robert , Yan Jun , Mahadevan Radhakrishnan , Yakunin Alexander F , Löffler Frank E , Edwards Elizabeth A
Published: November 2016

Two novel chlorinated alkane-respiring Dehalobacter restrictus strains CF and DCA were isolated from the same enrichment culture, ACT-3, and characterized. The closed genomes of these highly similar sister strains were previously assembled from metagenomic sequence data and annotated. The isolation of the strains enabled experimental verification of predicted annotations, particularly focusing on irregularities or predicted gaps in central metabolic pathways and cofactor biosynthesis. Similar to D. restrictus strain PER-K23, strains CF and DCA require arginine, histidine and threonine for growth, although the corresponding biosynthesis pathways are predicted to be functional. Using strain CF to experimentally verify annotations, we determined that the predicted defective serine biosynthesis pathway can be rescued with a promiscuous serine hydroxymethyltransferase. Strain CF grew without added thiamine although the thiamine biosynthesis pathway is predicted to be absent; intracellular thiamine diphosphate, the cofactor of carboxylases in central metabolism, was not detected in cell extracts. Thus, strain CF may use amino acids to replenish central metabolites, portending entangled metabolite exchanges in ACT-3. Consistent with annotation, strain CF possesses a functional corrinoid biosynthesis pathway, demonstrated by increasing corrinoid content during growth and guided cobalamin biosynthesis in corrinoid-free medium. Chloroform toxicity to corrinoid-producing methanogens and acetogens may drive the conservation of corrinoid autotrophy in Dehalobacter strains. Heme detection in strain CF cell extracts suggests the ‘archaeal’ heme biosynthesis pathway also functions in anaerobic Firmicutes. This study reinforces the importance of incorporating enzyme promiscuity and cofactor availability in genome-scale functional predictions and identifies essential nutrient interdependencies in anaerobic dechlorinating microbial communities.
Quantifying electronic band interactions in van der Waals materials using angle-resolved reflected-electron spectroscopy
Authors: Jobst Johannes , van der Torren Alexander J. H. , Krasovskii Eugene E. , Balgley Jesse , Dean Cory R. , Tromp Rudolf M. , van der Molen Sense Jan
Published: November 2016

High electron mobility is one of graphene’s key properties, exploited for applications and fundamental research alike. Highest mobility values are found in heterostructures of graphene and hexagonal boron nitride, which consequently are widely used. However, surprisingly little is known about the interaction between the electronic states of these layered systems. Rather pragmatically, it is assumed that these do not couple significantly. Here we study the unoccupied band structure of graphite, boron nitride and their heterostructures using angle-resolved reflected-electron spectroscopy. We demonstrate that graphene and boron nitride bands do not interact over a wide energy range, despite their very similar dispersions. The method we use can be generally applied to study interactions in van der Waals systems, that is, artificial stacks of layered materials. With this we can quantitatively understand the ‘chemistry of layers’ by which novel materials are created via electronic coupling between the layers they are composed of.
Quantum enhanced feedback cooling of a mechanical oscillator using nonclassical light
Authors: Schäfermeier Clemens , Kerdoncuff Hugo , Hoff Ulrich B. , Fu Hao , Huck Alexander , Bilek Jan , Harris Glen I. , Bowen Warwick P. , Gehring Tobias , Andersen Ulrik L.
Published: November 2016

Laser cooling is a fundamental technique used in primary atomic frequency standards, quantum computers, quantum condensed matter physics and tests of fundamental physics, among other areas. It has been known since the early 1990s that laser cooling can, in principle, be improved by using squeezed light as an electromagnetic reservoir; while quantum feedback control using a squeezed light probe is also predicted to allow improved cooling. Here we show the implementation of quantum feedback control of a micro-mechanical oscillator using squeezed probe light. This allows quantum-enhanced feedback cooling with a measurement rate greater than it is possible with classical light, and a consequent reduction in the final oscillator temperature. Our results have significance for future applications in areas ranging from quantum information networks, to quantum-enhanced force and displacement measurements and fundamental tests of macroscopic quantum mechanics.
PI3 kinase inhibition improves vascular malformations in mouse models of hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia
Authors: Ola Roxana , Dubrac Alexandre , Han Jinah , Zhang Feng , Fang Jennifer S. , Larrivée Bruno , Lee Monica , Urarte Ana A. , Kraehling Jan R. , Genet Gael , Hirschi Karen K. , Sessa William C. , Canals Francesc V. , Graupera Mariona , Yan Minhong , Young Lawrence H. , Oh Paul S. , Eichmann Anne
Published: November 2016

Activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1) is an endothelial serine–threonine kinase receptor for bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) 9 and 10. Inactivating mutations in the ALK1 gene cause hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia type 2 (HHT2), a disabling disease characterized by excessive angiogenesis with arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Here we show that inducible, endothelial-specific homozygous Alk1 inactivation and BMP9/10 ligand blockade both lead to AVM formation in postnatal retinal vessels and internal organs including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in mice. VEGF and PI3K/AKT signalling are increased on Alk1 deletion and BMP9/10 ligand blockade. Genetic deletion of the signal-transducing Vegfr2 receptor prevents excessive angiogenesis but does not fully revert AVM formation. In contrast, pharmacological PI3K inhibition efficiently prevents AVM formation and reverts established AVMs. Thus, Alk1 deletion leads to increased endothelial PI3K pathway activation that may be a novel target for the treatment of vascular lesions in HHT2.
Massive remobilization of permafrost carbon during post-glacial warming
Authors: Tesi T. , Muschitiello F. , Smittenberg R. H. , Jakobsson M. , Vonk J. E. , Hill P. , Andersson A. , Kirchner N. , Noormets R. , Dudarev O. , Semiletov I. , Gustafsson Ö
Published: November 2016

Recent hypotheses, based on atmospheric records and models, suggest that permafrost carbon (PF-C) accumulated during the last glaciation may have been an important source for the atmospheric CO2 rise during post-glacial warming. However, direct physical indications for such PF-C release have so far been absent. Here we use the Laptev Sea (Arctic Ocean) as an archive to investigate PF-C destabilization during the last glacial–interglacial period. Our results show evidence for massive supply of PF-C from Siberian soils as a result of severe active layer deepening in response to the warming. Thawing of PF-C must also have brought about an enhanced organic matter respiration and, thus, these findings suggest that PF-C may indeed have been an important source of CO2 across the extensive permafrost domain. The results challenge current paradigms on the post-glacial CO2 rise and, at the same time, serve as a harbinger for possible consequences of the present-day warming of PF-C soils.
Accelerated pseudogenization on the neo-X chromosome in Drosophila miranda
Authors: Nozawa Masafumi , Onizuka Kanako , Fujimi Mai , Ikeo Kazuho , Gojobori Takashi
Published: November 2016

Y chromosomes often degenerate via the accumulation of pseudogenes and transposable elements. By contrast, little is known about X-chromosome degeneration. Here we compare the pseudogenization process between genes on the neo-sex chromosomes in Drosophila miranda and their autosomal orthologues in closely related species. The pseudogenization rate on the neo-X is much lower than the rate on the neo-Y, but appears to be higher than the rate on the orthologous autosome in D. pseudoobscura. Genes under less functional constraint and/or genes with male-biased expression tend to become pseudogenes on the neo-X, indicating the accumulation of slightly deleterious mutations and the feminization of the neo-X. We also find a weak trend that the genes with female-benefit/male-detriment effects identified in D. melanogaster are pseudogenized on the neo-X, implying the masculinization of the neo-X. These observations suggest that both X and Y chromosomes can degenerate due to a complex suite of evolutionary forces.
Comparison of Circulating Tumour Cells and Circulating Cell-Free Epstein-Barr Virus DNA in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Undergoing Radiotherapy
Authors: Vo Jess Honganh , Nei Wen Long , Hu Min , Phyo Wai Min , Wang Fuqiang , Fong Kam Weng , Tan Terence , Soong Yoke Lim , Cheah Shie Lee , Sommat Kiattisa , Low Huiyu , Ling Belinda , Ng Johnson , Tan Wan Loo , Chan Kian Sing , Oon Lynette , Ying Jackie Y. , Tan Min-Han
Published: November 2016

Quantification of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is commonly used in clinical settings as a circulating biomarker in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), but there has been no comparison with circulating tumour cells (CTCs). Our study aims to compare the performance of CTC enumeration against EBV cfDNA quantitation through digital PCR (dPCR) and quantitative PCR. 74 plasma samples from 46 NPC patients at baseline and one month after radiotherapy with or without concurrent chemotherapy were analysed. CTCs were captured by microsieve technology and enumerated, while three different methods of EBV cfDNA quantification were applied, including an in-house qPCR assay for BamHI-W fragment, a CE-IVD qPCR assay (Sentosa®) and a dPCR (Clarity™) assay for Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1). EBV cfDNA quantitation by all workflows showed stronger correlation with clinical stage, radiological response and overall survival in comparison with CTC enumeration. The highest detection rate of EBV cfDNA in pre-treatment samples was seen with the BamHI-W qPCR assay (89%), followed by EBNA1-dPCR (85%) and EBNA1-qPCR (67%) assays. Overall, we show that EBV cfDNA outperforms CTC enumeration in correlation with clinical outcomes of NPC patients undergoing treatment. Techniques such as dPCR and target selection of BamHI-W may improve sensitivity for EBV cfDNA detection.
Polarization conversion when focusing cylindrically polarized vortex beams
Authors: Porfirev Alexey P. , Ustinov Andrey V. , Khonina Svetlana N.
Published: November 2016

Currently, cylindrical beams with radial or azimuthal polarization are being used successfully for the optical manipulation of micro- and nano-particles as well as in microscopy, lithography, nonlinear optics, materials processing, and telecommunication applications. The creation of these laser beams is carried out using segmented polarizing plates, subwavelength gratings, interference, or light modulators. Here, we demonstrate the conversion of cylindrically polarized laser beams from a radial to an azimuthal polarization, or vice versa, by introducing a higher-order vortex phase singularity. To simultaneously generate several vortex phase singularities of different orders, we utilized a multi-order diffractive optical element. Both the theoretical and the experimental results regarding the radiation transmitted through the diffractive optical element show that increasing the order of the phase singularity leads to more efficient conversation of the polarization from radial to azimuthal. This demonstrates a close connection between the polarization and phase states of electromagnetic beams, which has important implications in many optical experiments.
Controllable and fast quantum-information transfer between distant nodes in two-dimensional networks
Authors: Zhong Zhi-Rong
Published: November 2016

We construct shortcuts to adiabatic passage to achieve controllable and fast quantum-information transfer (QIT) between arbitrary two distant nodes in a two-dimensional (2D) quantum network. Through suitable designing of time-dependent Rabi frequencies, we show that perfect QIT between arbitrary two distant nodes can be rapidly achieved. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the proposal is robust to the decoherence caused by atomic spontaneous emission and cavity photon leakage. Additionally, the proposed scheme is also insensitive to the variations of the experimental parameters. Thus, the proposed scheme provides a new perspective on robust quantum information processing in 2D quantum networks.