bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief communication: Remotely piloted aircraft systems for rapid
emergency response: road exposure to rockfall in Villanova di
Accumoli (Central Italy)
Authors: Santangelo Michele , Alvioli Massimiliano , Baldo Marco , Cardinali Mauro , Giordan Daniele , Guzzetti Fausto , Marchesini Ivan , Reichenbach Paola
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The use of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPASs) in geosciences is often aimed at the acquisition of an image sequence to produce digital models and orthophotographs of the topographic surface. The technology can be applied for rockfall hazard and risk assessment. To study rockfalls, an approach consists in the application of numerical models for the computation of rockfall trajectories. Data required for such models include accurate digital terrain models, location of the instability source areas, and the mechanical properties of the terrain. In this article, we present an analysis of the earthquake-triggered rockfall that occurred along the SP18 in Villanova di Accumoli (Lazio, central Italy) during the 24 August 2016 seismic sequence. A survey with a multicopter was carried out to obtain an accurate surface model of the terrain, the identification and characterization of the source areas and of other instable blocks in areas not accessible in the field. The investigated area extends for 6,500 m2 and was covered by 161 photographs that were used to obtain an orthophoto with a ground resolution of 2.5 cm, and a digital surface model with a ground resolution of 20 cm × 20 cm, which was processed and fused with GNSS RTK data. We run the numerical model STONE, using the source areas mapped in the field and adopting a slope threshold to get a map showing the rockfall potential trajectories. Results showed that only the part of the road SP18 hit by the rockfall was exposed to further rockfall impacts. In particular, it was observed that 16 % (i.e. 5,108) of the 31,800 simulated trajectories reached or crossed this tract of the road. Based on these data, limited protection measures were suggested. The combined use of RPAS data, fused with ground GPS points, an accurate geomorphological survey, and terrain static and dynamic parameters from the literature, allows fast, low-cost and replicable numerical modelling for emergency response and adoption of proper protection measures.
Age ranges of the Tibetan ice cores with emphasis on the Chongce ice cores, western Kunlun Mountains
Authors: Hou Shugui , Jenk Theo M. , Zhang Wangbin , Wang Chaomin , Wu Shuangye , Wang Yetang , Pang Hongxi , Schwikowski Margit
Published: July 2018

Abstract. An accurate chronology is the essential first step for a sound understanding
of ice core records. However, dating ice cores drilled from the
high-elevation glaciers is challenging and often problematic, leading to
great uncertainties. The Guliya ice core, drilled
to the bedrock (308.6 m
in length) along the western Kunlun Mountains on the
north-western Tibetan Plateau (TP) and widely used as a benchmark for
palaeoclimate research, is believed to reach >500 ka (thousand years) at
its bottom. Meanwhile other Tibetan ice cores (i.e. Dasuopu and East Rongbuk
in the Himalayas, Puruogangri in the central TP and Dunde in the
north-eastern TP) are mostly of Holocene origin. In this study, we drilled
four ice cores into bedrock (216.6, 208.6, 135.8 and 133.8 m in
length, respectively) from the Chongce ice cap ∼30 km
to the
Guliya ice core drilling site. We took measurements of 14C,
210Pb, tritium and β activity for the ice cores, and used
these values in a two-parameter flow model to establish the ice core
depth–age relationship. We suggested that the Chongce ice cores might be of
Holocene origin, consistent with the other Tibetan ice cores except Guliya.
The remarkable discrepancy between the Guliya and all the other Tibetan ice
core chronology implies that more effort is necessary to explore multiple
dating techniques to confirm the age ranges of the TP glaciers, including
those from Chongce and Guliya.
Autenticidade de documentos arquivísticos digitais: análise de um processo de afastamento
Authors: Kroth Marcelo Lopes , Flores Daniel
Published: July 2018

Objetivo. Apresenta uma análise dos aspectos que envolvem a presunção de autenticidade de um documento arquivístico nato digital, utilizando o processo de afastamento produzido na Universidade Federal de Santa Maria como estudo de caso.Método. A pesquisa teve como base a metodologia utilizada no Projeto InterPARES. Foram analisados os contextos jurídico-administrativo, de proveniência, de procedimentos, documental e tecnológico, considerando a Resolução Nº 37, de 19 de dezembro de 2012 do Conselho Nacional de Arquivos, que Aprova as Diretrizes para a Presunção de Autenticidade de Documentos Arquivísticos Digitais.Resultados. O caso analisado trata-se de um sistema informatizado utilizado no processo de afastamento dos servidores docentes e técnico-administrativos em educação. Mais de dezessete mil processos já foram produzidos exclusivamente em meio digital desde que o sistema entrou em operação, no final de 2012.Conclusões. A informatização dos processos contribuiu para a transparência ativa, conforme a Lei nº 12.527/2011, e também reduziu o tempo de trâmite do processo, porém a falta de observância de alguns requisitos de gestão arquivística que recai sobre os documentos nato digitais pode gerar incertezas a respeito da autenticidade, bem como, o risco de perda de parte da memória da universidade em longo prazo.
Synergy between the small intrinsically disordered protein Hsp12 and trehalose sustain viability after severe desiccation
Authors: Kim Skylar Xantus , Çamdere Gamze , Hu Xuchen , Koshland Douglas , Tapia Hugo
Published: July 2018

Anhydrobiotes are rare microbes, plants and animals that tolerate severe water loss. Understanding the molecular basis for their desiccation tolerance may provide novel insights into stress biology and critical tools for engineering drought-tolerant crops. Using the anhydrobiote, budding yeast, we show that trehalose and Hsp12, a small intrinsically disordered protein (sIDP) of the hydrophilin family, synergize to mitigate completely the inviability caused by the lethal stresses of desiccation. We show that these two molecules help to stabilize the activity and prevent aggregation of model proteins both in vivo and in vitro. We also identify a novel in vitro role for Hsp12 as a membrane remodeler, a protective feature not shared by another yeast hydrophilin, suggesting that sIDPs have distinct biological functions.
Sense‐Making
Authors: Golob Urša
Published: July 2018

This entry introduces and explains the concept of sense‐making, an influential perspective among strategic communication researchers and practitioners who study how humans appropriate their realities and act upon them. Although sense‐making is a popular concept, it is often employed without clear definition. An investigation into sense‐making reveals its complexity and ambiguity, both in ontological and epistemological terms. Nevertheless, some common features of sense‐making exist. Sense‐making is a process defined by transience. It is typically attached to unexpected situations that need explanation. Sense‐making is considered as social. Research approaches of sense‐making share a common interest; they are interested in users, audiences (and recently also in narratives) in interpretative ways while focusing on agency and structure. However, the various approaches differ in their methods and sources of analysis. Research on sense‐making shows how the concept is contributing to strategic communication and organizational studies and practice by influencing other important communication and organizational processes.
The role of context expectations and cost of reporting on prospective person memory performance
Authors: Moore Kara N. , Provenzano Andrew C. , Lampinen James Michael
Published: July 2018

Prospective person memory refers to the task of being on the lookout for a missing or wanted person. In both laboratory and field‐based tasks, prospective person memory performance has been poor. In the current study, we examined two factors that could be manipulated in the real world to increase successful recovery of missing or wanted persons: expectations of encounter and the cost of reporting wanted persons. Participants completed a computer task that simulated normal day‐to‐day tasks (i.e.., grocery shopping) while looking for four “wanted” persons. Participants who were given accurate context expectations made more accurate sightings and more inaccurate sightings than participants who were given inaccurate context expectations. The cost of reporting a sighting did not affect sighting rates. These findings indicate that people are more likely to notice a wanted person in their environment when they expect to encounter the wanted person in that environment.
Facilitating memory‐based lie detection in immediate and delayed interviewing: The role of mnemonics
Authors: Izotovas Aleksandras , Vrij Aldert , Hope Lorraine , Mann Samantha , Granhag Pär Anders , Strömwall Leif A.
Published: July 2018

We experimentally investigated how different mnemonic techniques employed in an interview conducted immediately after an event affected truth tellers' and liars' responses when they were interviewed again after a 2‐week delay. We also compared how verbal accounts changed over time within truth tellers and liars, and how consistent both groups were. Participants (n = 143) were shown a mock intelligence operation video and instructed either to tell the truth or lie about its contents in two interviews, one of which was immediately after watching the video and the other after a 2‐week delay. In the immediate interview, they were asked to provide a free recall and then asked to provide further information via one of three mnemonics: context reinstatement, sketch, or event‐line. In the delayed interview, they were asked to provide only a free recall. Truth tellers reported more visual, spatial, temporal, and action details than did liars both immediately and after a delay. Truth tellers experienced more of a decline in reporting details after a delay than did liars, and this decline was affected by the mnemonic used. Truth tellers thus showed, more than liars, patterns of reporting indicative of genuine memory decay. Liars produced patterns of a “stability bias” instead. Truth tellers and liars were equally consistent between their immediate and delayed statements.
Characteristics of memories for traumatic and nontraumatic birth
Authors: Crawley Rosalind , Wilkie Stephanie , Gamble Jenny , Creedy Debra K. , Fenwick Jenny , Cockburn Nicola , Ayers Susan
Published: July 2018

Evidence for memory characteristic differences between trauma and other memories in non‐clinical samples is inconsistent. However, trauma is frequently confounded with the event recalled. This study compares trauma and nontrauma memories for the same event, childbirth, in a non‐clinical sample of 285 women 4–6 weeks after birth. None of the women met diagnostic criteria for post‐traumatic stress disorder. Traumatic birth, defined by the DSM‐5 event criterion, was reported by 100 women. The ratings of some memory characteristics did not differ between memories for traumatic and nontraumatic birth: All were rated highly coherent and central to women's lives, with moderate sensory memory. However, women who experienced traumatic births reported more involuntary recall, reliving, and negative/mixed emotions. Thus, trauma memories differed from nontrauma memories. In this non‐clinical sample, this is likely to be due to encoding during trauma rather than the distinctive memory profile for memories retrieved by those experiencing trauma symptoms.
Simulation‐Based Material Characterization of Isotropic and Direction‐Dependent Polymers for Use in Active Structure Assemblies
Authors: Weiß Manuel , Lerch Reinhard , Rupitsch Stefan Johann
Published: July 2018

Piezoceramic sensor and actuator assemblies are of increasing interest for various fields of application and attractive as part of lightweight design. As for the latter, polymers and fiber‐reinforced composites are appropriate as functional materials. Numerical simulations can be performed to predict mechanical and electrical performance of such active structure assemblies. Precise material parameters, however, are indispensable to obtain reliable simulation results. Manufacturer data is often not sufficient since it leads to major deviations between numerical simulation results and measurements. To enable reliable numerical simulations, the authors present a simulation‐based characterization approach for isotropic, transverse isotropic, and orthotropic polymer materials by means of adapting material parameters through an optimization algorithm. Frequency response function measurements of beam‐shaped test samples serve as input values. Thus, it is possible to identify values for linear viscoelastic material models and to provide direction‐dependent material parameters.
Hollow‐Out Patterning Ultrathin Acoustic Metasurfaces for Multifunctionalities Using Soft fiber/Rigid Bead Networks
Authors: Tang Hanchuan , Chen Zhesi , Tang Ni , Li Shuaifeng , Shen Yaxi , Peng Yugui , Zhu Xuefeng , Zang Jianfeng
Published: July 2018

Acoustic metasurfaces that can manipulate and control sound waves at 2D subwavelength scales open new avenues to unusual applications, such as asymmetric transmission, super‐resolution imaging, and particle manipulation. However, the long‐standing goals of pushing frontier metamaterials research into real practice are still severely constrained by cumbersome configuration, large acoustic loss, and rigid structure of the existing metamaterials. An ultrathin metasurface (10–300 µm in thickness, up to ≈λ/650, λ the wavelength) that is capable of imparting sound wave with a nontrivial phase shift with high transmittance (>80%) in the range of 5–30 kHz is fabricated here. The metasurface is comprised of a porous network of soft polymer fiber/rigid beads that are physically equivalent to crosslinked spring‐mass resonators. Moreover, the traditional paper‐cutting art to carve the ultrathin metasurface into hollow‐out patterns is incorporated, resulting in a variety of remarkable functions, including acoustic vortex, focusing, and super‐resolution. The hollow‐out patterning approach innovates the traditional one‐step metadevice fabrication process into two separated steps: 1) fabrication of ultrathin metasurfaces; 2) hollow‐out patterning of metasurfaces. The strategy opens an avenue to mass production of acoustic metadevices, shedding light on the applications of the metamaterials in acoustic cloaking, acoustic positioning, and particle manipulation.
Recent Progress in Isolation and Detection of Extracellular Vesicles for Cancer Diagnostics
Authors: Wang Wenshuo , Luo Jing , Wang Shutao
Published: July 2018

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as one of the many new and promising biomarkers for liquid biopsy of cancer due to their loading capability of some specific proteins and nucleic acids that are closely associated with cancer states. As such, the isolation and detection of cancer‐derived EVs offer important information in noninvasive diagnosis of early‐stage cancer and real‐time monitoring of cancer development. In light of the importance of EVs, over the last decade, researchers have made remarkable innovations to advance the development of EV isolation and detection methods by taking advantage of microfluidics, biomolecule probes, nanomaterials, surface plasmon, optics, and so on. This review introduces the basic properties of EVs and common cancer‐derived EV ingredients, and provides a comprehensive overview of EV isolation and detection strategies, with emphasis on liquid biopsies of EVs for cancer diagnostics.
Piezotronics in Photo‐Electrochemistry
Authors: Yu Yanhao , Wang Xudong
Published: July 2018

Photo‐electrochemistry is the major trajectory for directly transforming solar energy into chemical compounds. The performance of a photo‐electrochemical (PEC) system is directly related to the interfacial electrical band energy landscape. Recently, piezotronics has stood out as a promising strategy for tuning interfacial energetics. It applies intrinsic or deformation‐induced ionic displacements (ferroelectric and piezoelectric polarizations) to engineer the interfacial charge distribution, and thereby the band structures of PEC electrodes. Here, contemporary research efforts of coupling piezotronics with photo‐electrochemisty are reviewed. Quantitative band diagrams of a polarization‐tuned semiconductor–electrolyte junction are first introduced, with an emphasis on the impact of interface chemistry. Experimental advances of employing piezoelectric and ferroelectric polarizations to enhance the charge separation and transportation, and surface kinetics of PEC water splitting are discussed. Finally, critical challenges of applying piezotronics in PEC systems and promising solutions are presented.
Penicillamine–cerium(IV) initiator system for synthesis of hydrogel containing lithium methacrylate ionic groups
Authors: Özeroğlu Cemal , İpek Necla
Published: July 2018

In this study, the synthesis of hydrogels of acrylamide or acrylamide and lithium methacrylate in the presence of N,N′‐methylene bis(acrylamide) as crosslinker by using penicillamine–cerium(IV) sulfate redox initiator system was studied. The effects of the amounts of lithium methacrylate at constant crosslinker concentration and the mole ratios of total monomer/crosslinker on the swelling behaviors of hydrogels in distilled water were investigated. The hydrogels containing various ionic groups, such as, LiMA, NaMA, and KMA which were used in the copolymerization reaction at constant molar ratio of ionic monomer/acrylamide = 0.67 at different ratios of nM/nMBAAm = 25, 50, 200, and 400 (nM = nIM + nAAm), were synthesized. The swelling ratios and equilibrium swelling values were compared for the hydrogels. The swelling behaviors of hydrogels were also examined in the salt and phosphate buffer solutions.
Solar Absorber Gel: Localized Macro‐Nano Heat Channeling for Efficient Plasmonic Au Nanoflowers Photothermic Vaporization and Triboelectric Generation
Authors: Gao Minmin , Peh Connor Kangnuo , Phan Huy Thong , Zhu Liangliang , Ho Ghim Wei
Published: July 2018

Plasmonic nanoparticles with outstanding photothermal conversion efficiency are promising for solar vaporization. However, the high cost and the required intense light excitation of noble metals, hinder their practical application. Herein, an inexpensive 3D plasmonic solar absorber gel that embraces all the desirable optical, thermal, and wetting properties for efficient solar vaporization is reported. The broadband absorption and strong near‐field intertip enhancement of the sparsely dispersed gold nanoflowers contribute to efficient light‐to‐heat conversion, while the macro‐nano thermal insulative silica gel retains and channels the plasmonic heat directly to the water pathways contained within the porous gel. The plasmonic‐based solar absorber gel shows a vaporization efficiency of 85% under solar irradiation of 1 sun intensity (1 kW m−2). Moreover, the porous gel framework exhibits high mechanical stability and antifouling properties, potentially useful for polluted/turbid water evaporation. Complementary water condensation‐induced triboelectricity can be harvested alongside fresh water condensate, granting simultaneous fresh water production and electricity generation functionalities. The facile sol‐gel synthesis at room temperature makes the solar absorber gel highly adaptable for practical large‐scale photothermal applications.
Holographic Superconductors with Nonlinear Arcsin‐Electrodynamics
Authors: Kruglov Sergey Il'ich
Published: July 2018

Holographic s‐wave superconductors with nonlinear arcsin‐electrodynamics in the background of Schwarzschild anti‐de Sitter black holes are investigated. The analytical Sturm–Liouville eigenvalue problem is explored and the scalar and electromagnetic fields are assumed not to influence the background metric (the probe limit). The critical temperatures of phase transitions depending on the parameter of the model are obtained. It is shown that in this case, the condensation formation becomes easier compared to Born–Infeld nonlinear electrodynamics. The critical exponent near the critical temperature is calculated, which is 1/2. With the help of the matching method, analytic expressions for the condensation value and the critical temperature are derived. The real and imaginary parts of the conductivity in the model, making use of an analytical method, are computed.
Charged Si9 Clusters in Neat Solids and the Detection of [H2Si9]2− in Solution: A Combined NMR, Raman, Mass Spectrometric, and Quantum Chemical Investigation
Authors: Schiegerl Lorenz J. , Karttunen Antti J. , Tillmann Jan , Geier Sebastian , Raudaschl‐Sieber Gabriele , Waibel Markus , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: July 2018

Polyanionic silicon clusters are provided by the Zintl phases K4Si4, comprising [Si4]4− units, and K12Si17, consisting of [Si4]4− and [Si9]4− clusters. A combination of solid‐state MAS‐NMR, solution NMR, and Raman spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and quantum‐chemical investigations was used to investigate four‐ and nine‐atomic silicon Zintl clusters in neat solids and solution. The results were compared to 29Si isotope‐enriched samples. 29Si‐MAS NMR and Raman shifts of the phase‐pure solids K4Si4 and K12Si17 were interpreted by quantum‐chemical calculations. Extraction of [Si9]4− clusters from K12Si17 with liquid ammonia/222crypt and their transfer to pyridine yields in a red solid containing Si9 clusters. This compound was characterized by elemental and EDX analyses and 29Si‐MAS NMR and Raman spectroscopy. Charged Si9 clusters were detected by 29Si NMR in solution. 29Si and 1H NMR spectra reveal the presence of the [H2Si9]2− cluster anion in solution.
Hierarchically aligned fibrous hydrogel films through microfluidic self‐assembly of graphene and polysaccharides
Authors: Patel Akhil , Xue Yingfei , Hartley Rebecca , Sant Vinayak , Eles James R. , Cui Xinyan Tracy , Stolz Donna Beer , Sant Shilpa
Published: July 2018

Despite significant interest in developing extracellular matrix (ECM)‐inspired biomaterials to recreate native cell‐instructive microenvironments, the major challenge in the biomaterial field is to recapitulate the complex structural and biophysical features of native ECM. These biophysical features include multiscale hierarchy, electrical conductivity, optimum wettability, and mechanical properties. These features are critical to the design of cell‐instructive biomaterials for bioengineering applications such as skeletal muscle tissue engineering. In this study, we used a custom‐designed film fabrication assembly, which consists of a microfluidic chamber to allow electrostatic charge‐based self‐assembly of oppositely charged polymer solutions forming a hydrogel fiber and eventually, a nanocomposite fibrous hydrogel film. The film recapitulates unidirectional hierarchical fibrous structure along with the conductive properties to guide initial alignment and myotube formation from cultured myoblasts. We combined high conductivity, and charge carrier mobility of graphene with biocompatibility of polysaccharides to develop graphene–polysaccharide nanocomposite fibrous hydrogel films. The incorporation of graphene in fibrous hydrogel films enhanced their wettability, electrical conductivity, tensile strength, and toughness without significantly altering their elastic properties (Young's modulus). In a proof‐of‐concept study, the mouse myoblast cells (C2C12) seeded on these nanocomposite fibrous hydrogel films showed improved spreading and enhanced myogenesis as evident by the formation of multinucleated myotubes, an early indicator of myogenesis. Overall, graphene–polysaccharide nanocomposite fibrous hydrogel films provide a potential biomaterial to promote skeletal muscle tissue regeneration.
Metallapentalenofuran: Shifting Metallafuran Rings Promoted by Substituent Effects
Authors: Hua Yuhui , Lan Qing , Fei Jiawei , Tang Chun , Lin Jianfeng , Zha Hexukun , Chen Shiyan , Lu Yinghua , Chen Jiangxi , He Xumin , Xia Haiping
Published: July 2018

Bulky substituents play important roles in controlling the reaction pathways or producing selected products. This work reports that the shift of metallafuran rings in a metallapentalenofuran complex can be promoted by the substituent effect via a reversible C−H bond reductive elimination and oxidative addition. The starting osmapentalyne, a so‐called 7‐carbon carbolong complex, was produced by the oxidation of a metallapentalenofuran with FeCl3. It was then allowed to react with nucleophiles, followed by a C−H activation, to give the aforementioned metallapentalenofuran complex. This work enriches the family of carbolong complexes and reveals a new strategy to promote, but not prevent reactions by the bulky substituents.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Cascade Double C—N Bond Activation: A New Strategy for Aminomethylation of 1,3‐Dienes with Aminals
Authors: Qiao Cuifang , Chen Anrong , Gao Bingjian , Liu Yang , Huang Hanmin
Published: July 2018

A new palladium‐catalyzed selective aminomethylation of conjugated 1,3‐dienes with aminals via double C—N bond activation is described. This simple method provides an effective and rapid approach for the synthesis of linear α,β‐unsaturated allylic amines with perfect regioselectivity. Mechanistic studies disclosed that one palladium catalyst cleaved two distinct C—N bond to furnish a cascade double C—N bond activation, in which an allylic 1,3‐diamine and allylic 1,2‐diamine were initially formed as key intermediates through the palladium‐catalyzed C—N bond activation of aminal and the α,β‐unsaturated allylic amine was subsequently produced via palladium‐catalyzed C—N bond activation of the allylic diamines.
How do corporate social responsibility activities affect performance? The role of excess control right
Authors: Ting Pi‐Hui , Yin Hsien‐yu
Published: July 2018

Using a sample of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)‐awarded firms in Taiwan during 2007–2016, this paper examines the impacts of various dimensions of CSR activities on firm financial performance, and investigates how the controlling shareholders' excess control right affects the relationship between CSR and firm financial performance. The empirical results show that the various dimensions of CSR activities affect firm financial performance differently. Moreover, the excess control right negatively affects the relationship between CSR activities and firm financial performance. CSR activities which are related to customers and employees have a significant positive impact on accounting‐based and market‐based performance for high and low excess control right firms. CSR activities which are related with environmental policy harm the accounting‐based financial performance of firms with a high degree of excess control right. Finally, the positive impact of community‐related CSR activities on the accounting‐based financial performance of firms is limited to firms with a low degree of excess control right.
Collect, review demographic data on accommodations for racial, ethnic disparities
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: July 2018

Schools routinely document the demand for the disability services they provide and the academic adjustments they approve. If asked, an institution can easily supply the number of students who receive exam accommodations, housing accommodations, or interpreting services. Schools also routinely document the disability for which they provide each accommodation, whether by relying on a student's self‐report or by relying on health care provider documentation.
Apple brings accessible coding to colleges and universities nationwide
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: July 2018

Apple is unveiling an accessible coding program called Everyone Can Code that is geared toward helping students with hearing, vision, or other assistive needs learn to code. The coding program uses a programming language called Swift that is designed to let students intuitively learn and write code. “We created Everyone Can Code because we believe all students deserve an opportunity to learn the language of technology. We hope to bring Everyone Can Code to even more schools around the world serving students with disabilities,” said Tim Cook, Apple chief executive officer.
A new genetic tool to improve immune‐compromised mouse models: Derivation and CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated targeting of NRG embryonic stem cell lines
Authors: Martin Gonzalez Javier , Baudet Aurélie , Abelechian Sahar , Bonderup Kasper , d'Altri Teresa , Porse Bo , Brakebusch Cord , Juliusson Gunnar , Cammenga Jörg
Published: July 2018

Development of human hematopoietic stem cells and differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells/induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells to hematopoietic stem cells are poorly understood. NOD (Non‐obese diabetic)‐derived mouse strains, such as NSG (NOD‐Scid‐il2Rg) or NRG (NOD‐Rag1‐il2Rg), are the best available models for studying the function of fetal and adult human hematopoietic cells as well as ES/iPS cell‐derived hematopoietic stem cells. Unfortunately, engraftment of human hematopoietic stem cells is very variable in these models. Introduction of additional permissive mutations into these complex genetic backgrounds of the NRG/NSG mice by natural breeding is a very demanding task in terms of time and resources. Specifically, since the genetic elements defining the NSG/NRG phenotypes have not yet been fully characterized, intense backcrossing is required to ensure transmission of the full phenotype. Here we describe the derivation of embryonic stem cell (ESC) lines from NRG pre‐implantation embryos generated by in vitro fertilization followed by the CRISPR/CAS9 targeting of the Gata‐2 locus. After injection into morula stage embryos, cells from three tested lines gave rise to chimeric adult mice showing high contribution of the ESCs (70%–100%), assessed by coat color. Moreover, these lines have been successfully targeted using Cas9/CRISPR technology, and the mutant cells have been shown to remain germ line competent. Therefore, these new NRG ESC lines combined with genome editing nucleases bring a powerful genetic tool that facilitates the generation of new NOD‐based mouse models with the aim to improve the existing xenograft models.
Natural T‐cell ligands that are created by genetic variants can be transferred between cells by extracellular vesicles
Authors: Kremer Anita N. , Zonneveld Marijke I. , Kremer Andreas E. , van der Meijden Edith D. , Falkenburg J.H. Frederik , Wauben Marca H.M. , Nolte‐‘t Hoen Esther N.M. , Griffioen Marieke
Published: July 2018

CD4 T cells play a central role as helper cells in adaptive immunity. Presentation of exogenous antigens in MHC class II by professional antigen‐presenting cells is a crucial step in induction of specific CD4 T cells in adaptive immune responses. For efficient induction of immunity against intracellular threats such as viruses or malignant transformations, antigens from HLA class II‐negative infected or transformed cells need to be transferred to surrounding antigen‐presenting cells to allow efficient priming of naive CD4 T cells. Here we show indirect antigen presentation for a subset of natural HLA class II ligands that are created by genetic variants and demonstrated that (neo)antigens can be transferred between cells by extracellular vesicles. Intercellular transfer by extracellular vesicles was not dependent on the T‐cell epitope, but rather on characteristics of the full‐length protein. This mechanism of (neo)antigen transfer from HLA class II‐negative cells to surrounding antigen‐presenting cells may play a crucial role in induction of anti‐tumor immunity.
Small Copper Clusters Supported on SrTiO3: An Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Natile Marta M. , Carlotto Silvia , Bizzotto Gianmaria , Vittadini Andrea , Glisenti Antonella
Published: July 2018

A theoretical and experimental study of nanocomposite systems prepared by depositing copper clusters on a perovskite (SrTiO3) was carried out. The supporting perovskite was prepared by a wet chemistry procedure (citrate route), whereas copper clusters were deposited by wet impregnation. This procedure was shown to allow a layer‐by‐layer growth, and to avoid any diffusion of copper into the perovskite. By comparing experimental and theoretical results, a strong interaction between the copper clusters and perovskite support was deduced. In particular, CuI oxide was shown to be most favoured at lower copper concentration, while CuII oxide prevailed when increasing the copper amount.
Contactless conductivity detection for analytical techniques: Developments from 2016 to 2018
Authors: Kubáň Pavel , Hauser Peter C.
Published: July 2018

The publications concerning capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection for the 2‐year period from mid‐2016 to mid‐2018 are covered in this update to the earlier reviews of the series. Relatively few reports on fundamental investigations or new designs have appeared in the literature in this time interval, but the development of new applications with the detection method has continued strongly. Most often, contactless conductivity measurements have been employed for the detection of inorganic or small organic ions in conventional capillary electrophoresis, less often in microchip electrophoresis. A number of other uses, such as detection in chromatography or the gauging of bubbles in streams have also been reported.
The importance of body image disturbances for the outcome of outpatient psychotherapy in patients with anorexia nervosa: Results of the ANTOP‐study
Authors: Junne Florian , Wild Beate , Resmark Gaby , Giel Katrin E. , Teufel Martin , Martus Peter , Ziser Katrin , Friederich Hans‐Christoph , de Zwaan Martina , Löwe Bernd , Dinkel Andreas , Herpertz Stephan , Burgmer Markus , Tagay Sefik , Rothermund Eva , Zeeck Almut , Herzog Wolfgang , Zipfel Stephan
Published: July 2018

This study investigates the role of body image self‐appraisal in predicting the outcomes of outpatient psychotherapy in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). Multiple linear regression analyses and a path‐analysis model were applied to test the study hypotheses that body image at baseline predicts treatment outcomes of outpatient psychotherapy in patients with AN at follow‐up measurement. The analyses were conducted as secondary analyses in a subgroup (n = 148) of the anorexia nervosa treatment of outpatient‐cohort (ANTOP‐study) (N = 242) of patients with AN. The results show that Negative Evaluation of the Body at baseline predicts perceived stress during psychotherapy, which in turn predicts depressive symptoms at the end of therapy which in turn predicts the outcomes body mass index and EDI‐2 sum score at 12 months follow‐up. The results underline the importance of body image disturbance in the course of AN and call for body image as a central target of psychotherapeutic interventions in patients with AN.
Effects of deep‐seated versus shallow hillslope processes on cosmogenic 10Be concentrations in fluvial sand and gravel
Authors: Tofelde Stefanie , Duesing Walter , Schildgen Taylor F. , Wickert Andrew D. , Wittmann Hella , Alonso Ricardo N. , Strecker Manfred
Published: July 2018

Terrestrial cosmogenic nuclide (TCN) concentrations in fluvial sediment, from which denudation rates are commonly inferred, can be affected by hillslope processes. TCN concentrations in gravel and sand may differ if localized, deep‐excavation processes (e.g. landslides, debris flows) affect the contributing catchment, whereas the TCN concentrations of sand and gravel tend to be more similar when diffusional processes like soil creep and sheetwash are dominant. To date, however, no study has systematically compared TCN concentrations in different detrital grain‐size fractions with a detailed inventory of hillslope processes from the entire catchment. Here we compare concentrations of the TCN 10Be in 20 detrital sand samples from the Quebrada del Toro (southern Central Andes, Argentina) to a hillslope‐process inventory from each contributing catchment. Our comparison reveals a shift from low‐slope gullying and scree production in slowly denuding, low‐slope areas to steep‐slope gullying and landsliding in fast‐denuding, steep areas. To investigate whether the nature of hillslope processes (locally excavating or more uniformly denuding) may be reflected in a comparison of the 10Be concentrations of sand and gravel, we define the normalized sand‐gravel index (NSGI) as the 10Be‐concentration difference between sand and gravel divided by their summed concentrations. We find a positive, linear relationship between the NSGI and median slope, such that our NSGI values broadly reflect the shift in hillslope processes from low‐slope gullying and scree production to steep‐slope gullying and landsliding. Higher NSGI values characterize regions affected by steep‐slope gullying or landsliding. We relate the large scatter in the relationship, which is exhibited particularly in low‐slope areas, to reduced hillslope‐channel connectivity and associated transient sediment storage within those catchments. While high NSGI values in well‐connected catchments are a reliable signal of deep‐excavation processes, hillslope excavation processes may not be reliably recorded by NSGI values where sediment experiences transient storage. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increasing legume forage productivity through slurry application – A way to intensify sustainable agriculture?
Authors: Crotty Felicity V. , Fychan Rhun , Sanderson Ruth , Marley Christina L.
Published: July 2018

Legume forages are fundamental in the development of sustainable livestock systems, building soil fertility and providing home‐grown protein for ruminant livestock. Legumes derive N from the atmosphere but defoliation reduces N fixation, reducing yield. Livestock, particularly dairy, systems generate considerable quantities of slurry. There is a lack of knowledge on whether this resource can be used sustainably to improve the dry matter (DM) yield of regularly defoliated legumes. An experiment investigated whether applying slurry to red clover (Trifolium pratense), lucerne (Medicago sativa), or hybrid ryegrass (Lolium hybridicum), managed by frequent cutting, would increase DM and nitrogen (N) yield compared with plots without slurry. Treatments were compared within a randomized block design. Plots were harvested for silage on four occasions. Soil P and K indices were maintained at sufficiency levels throughout. Forage DM yields were higher on all plots treated with slurry than those with zero slurry. Overall, legume forages had higher DM yields than ryegrass, with lucerne having the highest DM yield. DM yields decreased at each cut for all forages (p < 0.001); however, forage N content increased after each cut (p < 0.001). Slurry addition increased ryegrass yield at first cut and red clover yield at second cut (p < 0.05) indicating ryegrass needed the nutrient boost to commence growth, while red clover needed it to aid recovery after defoliation stress. N concentration differed between forages, although for ryegrass and red clover there was no difference between slurry treatments (p > 0.05), N was higher in lucerne grown without slurry. Applying slurry to legumes under frequent cutting regimes increased total DM yield but not N yield. Overall, findings demonstrate the potential to use slurry as a resource to intensify sustainable agriculture by increasing the DM yields of frequently harvested forage legumes.
Computer‐based training to detect antecedents and consequences of problem behavior
Authors: Scott Jelisa , Lerman Dorothea C. , Luck Kally
Published: July 2018

Training teachers and paraprofessionals to detect and record putative antecedents and consequences of problem behavior in the classroom has a number of potential benefits. In this study, we evaluated the outcomes of a computer‐based training program consisting of lectures, models, and practice. A total of 39 teachers and paraprofessionals participated. Participants scored videos of teacher‐student interactions after completing components of the instruction. The study was designed to evaluate the incremental contribution of instruction focused on (a) single exemplars of antecedents and consequences, (b) multiple exemplars of antecedents and consequences, and (c) simultaneously occurring antecedents and consequences. Training to detect simultaneously occurring events was necessary for the majority of participants to reach high levels of performance. The findings support the efficacy of computer‐based training and indicate the necessary and sufficient components of this training.
The diagnostic and prognostic value of copeptin in cardiovascular disease, current status, and prospective
Authors: Parizadeh Seyed Mostafa , Ghandehari Maryam , Parizadeh Mohammad Reza , Ferns Gordon A. , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid , Avan Amir , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi
Published: July 2018

Copeptin is a glycosylated peptide derived from the cleavage of the precursor of arginine‐vasopressin. In contrast to arginine‐vasopressin, copeptin is a stable molecule and can easily be measured using a simple rapid assay. The serum concentration of copeptin is increased in several clinical conditions, including hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and, of special interest in this review, in cardiovascular diseases. The diagnostic and prognostic value of copeptin in different cardiovascular diseases (acute coronary syndrome, stable coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, and acute ischemic stroke) has been reviewed in this article, to provide an understanding of how its measurement may be applied to improve the management of these conditions.
The proto‐oncogene function of Mdm2 in bone
Authors: Olivos David J. , Perrien Daniel S. , Hooker Adam , Cheng Ying‐Hua , Fuchs Robyn K. , Hong Jung Min , Bruzzaniti Angela , Chun Kristin , Eischen Christine M. , Kacena Melissa A. , Mayo Lindsey D.
Published: July 2018

Mouse double minute 2 (Mdm2) is a multifaceted oncoprotein that is highly regulated with distinct domains capable of cellular transformation. Loss of Mdm2 is embryonically lethal, making it difficult to study in a mouse model without additional genetic alterations. Global overexpression through increased Mdm2 gene copy number (Mdm2Tg) results in the development of hematopoietic neoplasms and sarcomas in adult animals. In these mice, we found an increase in osteoblastogenesis, differentiation, and a high bone mass phenotype. Since it was difficult to discern the cell lineage that generated this phenotype, we generated osteoblast‐specific Mdm2 overexpressing (Mdm2TgOb) mice in 2 different strains, C57BL/6 and DBA. These mice did not develop malignancies; however, these animals and the MG63 human osteosarcoma cell line with high levels of Mdm2 showed an increase in bone mineralization. Importantly, overexpression of Mdm2 corrected age‐related bone loss in mice, providing a role for the proto‐oncogenic activity of Mdm2 in bone health of adult animals.
TRIM22 regulates macrophage autophagy and enhances Mycobacterium tuberculosis clearance by targeting the nuclear factor–multiplicity κB/beclin 1 pathway
Authors: Lou Jun , Wang Yongli , Zheng Ximing , Qiu Weiqiang
Published: July 2018

Autophagy is a crucial host‐defense mechanism against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection by spanning innate and adaptive immune functions. TRIM22 is a member of tripartite motif family protein which involved in innate immunity and autophagy process. However, its role in the modulation of bacterial infection has not been investigated. Here, we demonstrated that TRIM22 is upregulated in a dose‐dependent and time‐dependent manner during Mtb infection of THP‐1 cells. Downregulation of TRIM22 significantly decreased light chain 3 (LC3)‐II protein level and the formation of LC3 puncta, while it markedly increased SQSTM1, a marker of autophagic degradation, in Mtb‐infected THP‐1 cells. What is more, enhanced bacterial survival was observed in TRIM22 knockdown THP‐1 cells, while rapamycin abrogated this effect. In the presence of vector containing TRIM22 in THP‐1 cells prior to infection, the survival of Mtb was decreased, while BafA restored this effect. Further study demonstrated that TRIM22 expression was regulated by MicroRNA‐20b, and that TRIM22 regulates Mtb‐infected THP‐1 autophagy via the nuclear factor–κB/beclin 1 pathway. Using a nuclear factor‐κB inhibitor BAY 11‐7082, we found that TRIM22–induced high expression of LC3‐II and the formation of LC3 was substantially attenuated, while the TRIM22–induced low expression of SQSTM1 was markedly increased in BAY 11‐7082–treatment cells. In addition, the bacterial survival reduced by TRIM22 was significantly reversed by BAY 11‐7082. Overall, these results suggest that TRIM22‐augmented autophagy prevents intracellular Mtb to evade autophagic clearance, thereby inhibiting the persistence of Mtb infections.
IL‐1β induces increased tight junction permeability in bovine mammary epithelial cells via the IL‐1β‐ERK1/2‐MLCK axis upon blood‐milk barrier damage
Authors: Xu Tong , Dong Zhijian , Wang Xixi , Qi Shaopei , Li Xueru , Cheng Rui , Liu Xu , Zhang Yong , Gao Ming‐Qing
Published: July 2018

Bovine mastitis occurs frequently in dairy cows and is often caused by various aetiological organisms, for example, Escherichia coli. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a key virulence factor of E. coli. In this study, we stimulated bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) with LPS to investigate the global transcriptional response and identify specific proinflammatory factors that play important roles in blood‐milk barrier damage during mastitis caused by E. coli. By performing RNA‐seq, we identified a large number of significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the LPS‐treated BMECs and the control cells. Among the DEGs, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) was selected because its messenger RNA expression was induced by LPS and its enrichment is involved in multiple inflammatory signal pathways, and its roles in blood‐milk barrier damage during the process of mastitis were investigated. Exogenous IL‐1β treatment damaged the integrity of the blood‐milk barrier, as indicated by the increased BMEC tight junction (TJ) permeability and confirmed by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Furthermore, the IL‐1β–induced increase in the BMEC TJ permeability was mediated by the IL‐1β‐ERK1/2‐MLCK axis pathway. Our data provide insights into the functions of IL‐1β in blood‐milk barrier damage caused by mastitis in dairy cows.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00961 inhibits cell proliferation and induces cell apoptosis in human non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Huang Zhiwen , Lei Wei , Tan Jin , Hu Hai‐Bo
Published: July 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) have been identified in multiple human cancer types, including lung cancer. An increasing number of studies have indicated that lncRNAs can function as important gene regulators. However, the biological mechanism of LINC00961 in lung cancerremains poorly understood. In our current study, we recognized lncRNA LINC00961, and we observed that it was significantly reduced in human non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissues. LINC00961 was elevated by infecting LV‐LINC00961, while decreased by LV‐shLINC00961 in H226 and A549 cells. Furthermore, it was shown that LINC00961 overexpression greatly inhibited lung cancer cell proliferation, whereas downregulated LINC00961 induced cell proliferation. In addition, further experiments showed that restoration of LINC00961 could dramatically increase apoptotic ratios of NSCLC H226 and A549 cells, and knockdown of LINC00961 exhibited an opposite effect. Moreover, Western blot analysis showed that upregulation of LINC00961 repressed proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression and increased Bax expression, indicating that it acts as an important pro‐apoptosis gene. Conversely, inhibition of LINC00961 induced proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression and restrained Bax protein levels. Taking these together, LINC00961 might play a tumor suppressive role in NSCLC progression, and it could serve as a novel prognostic biomarker in NSCLC diagnosis and treatment.