bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Four novel algal virus genomes discovered from Yellowstone Lake metagenomes
Authors: Zhang Weijia , Zhou Jinglie , Liu Taigang , Yu Yongxin , Pan Yingjie , Yan Shuling , Wang Yongjie
Published: October 2015

Phycodnaviruses are algae-infecting large dsDNA viruses that are widely distributed in aquatic environments. Here, partial genomic sequences of four novel algal viruses were assembled from a Yellowstone Lake metagenomic data set. Genomic analyses revealed that three Yellowstone Lake phycodnaviruses (YSLPVs) had genome lengths of 178,262 bp, 171,045 bp and 171,454 bp, respectively and were phylogenetically closely related to prasinoviruses (Phycodnaviridae). The fourth (YSLGV), with a genome length of 73,689 bp, was related to group III in the extended family Mimiviridae comprising Organic Lake phycodnaviruses and Phaeocystis globosa virus 16 T (OLPG). A pair of inverted terminal repeats was detected in YSLPV1, suggesting that its genome is nearly complete. Interestingly, these four putative YSL giant viruses also bear some genetic similarities to Yellowstone Lake virophages (YSLVs). For example, they share nine non-redundant homologous genes, including ribonucleotide reductase small subunit (a gene conserved in nucleo-cytoplasmic large DNA viruses) and Organic Lake virophage OLV2 (conserved in the majority of YSLVs). Additionally, putative multidrug resistance genes (emrE) were found in YSLPV1 and YSLPV2 but not in other viruses. Phylogenetic trees of emrE grouped YSLPVs with algae, suggesting that horizontal gene transfer occurred between giant viruses and their potential algal hosts.
Nonerythropoietic Erythropoietin-Derived Peptide Suppresses Adipogenesis, Inflammation, Obesity and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Liu Yuqi , Luo Bangwei , Shi Rongchen , Wang Jinsong , Liu Zongwei , Liu Wei , Wang Shufeng , Zhang Zhiren
Published: October 2015

Erythropoietin (EPO) has been identified as being crucial for obesity modulation; however, its erythropoietic activity may limit its clinical application. EPO-derived Helix B-surface peptide (pHBSP) is nonerythrogenic but has been reported to retain other functions of EPO. The current study aimed to evaluate the effects and potential mechanisms of pHBSP in obesity modulation. We found that pHBSP suppressed adipogenesis, adipokine expression and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) levels during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte maturation through the EPO receptor (EPOR). In addition, also through EPOR, pHBSP attenuated macrophage inflammatory activation and promoted PPARγ expression. Furthermore, PPARγ deficiency partly ablated the anti-inflammatory activity of pHBSP in macrophages. Correspondingly, pHBSP administration to high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice significantly improved obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and adipose tissue inflammation without stimulating hematopoiesis. Therefore, pHBSP can significantly protect against obesity and IR partly by inhibiting adipogenesis and inflammation. These findings have therapeutic implications for metabolic disorders, such as obesity and diabetes.
The interactions between TiO2 and graphene with surface inhomogeneity determined using density functional theory
Authors: Bukowski Brandon , Deskins N. Aaron
Published: October 2015

TiO2/graphene composites have shown promise as photocatalysts, leading to improved electronic properties. Surface defects in graphene were modeled to understand their role in these composite materials.
Trap-limited charge recombination in intrinsic perovskite film and meso-superstructured perovskite solar cells and the passivation effect of the hole-transport material on trap states
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Hao-Yi , Yu Man , Fu Li-Min , Qin Yujun , Zhang Jian-Ping , Ai Xi-Cheng
Published: October 2015

Charge recombination takes place in the perovskite phase or at the perovskite/HTM interface, which is mediated by intra-gap trap states.
Ionogel based on biopolymer–silica interpenetrated networks: dynamics of confined ionic liquid with lithium salt
Authors: Cerclier Carole V. , Zanotti Jean-Marc , Bideau Jean Le
Published: October 2015

Slow down of ionic liquid dynamics when confined in a biopolymer silica host network and segregation of lithium at the interface.
Triarylborane conjugated dicyanovinyl chromophores: intriguing optical properties and colorimetric anion discrimination
Authors: Kumar George Rajendra , Sarkar Samir Kumar , Thilagar Pakkirisamy
Published: October 2015

Three new triarylborane conjugated dicyanovinyl chromophores (Mes2B–π–donor–DCV) of type A–D–A are reported. All the compounds show intriguing dual fluorescence and two of them can be used for the naked-eye detection of F− and CN− ions.
Sustainable synthesis of enantiopure fluorolactam derivatives by a selective direct fluorination – amidase strategy
Authors: Willis Nicky J. , Fisher Craig A. , Alder Catherine M. , Harsanyi Antal , Shukla Lena , Adams Joseph P. , Sandford Graham
Published: October 2015

Chiral fluorolactam derivatives bearing a fluorine atom at a stereogenic centre were synthesized by a combination of selective direct fluorination using fluorine gas and a biochemical amidase cyclisation process.
Using confined bacteria as building blocks to generate fluid flow
Authors: Gao Zhiyong , Li He , Chen Xiao , Zhang H. P.
Published: October 2015

Bacteria confined in micro-structures transport colloidal particles along designed trajectories.
Iron transport in the kidney: implications for physiology and cadmium nephrotoxicity
Authors: Thévenod Frank , Wolff Natascha A.
Published: October 2015

A review of iron and cadmium transport by renal tubules highlighting common pathways and differences with their implications for health and disease.
The nature of interfacial binding of imidazole and carbene ligands with M20nanoclusters (M = Au, Ag and Cu) – a theoretical study
Authors: Geethalakshmi K. R. , Yang Xia , Sun Qiao , Ng T. Y. , Wang D.
Published: October 2015

To inspire more exciting developments in the design and advances of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), the fundamental understanding of the nature of interaction between metal nanoparticles and certain functional groups is very crucial.
Preparation of nano C-ZnO/SnO2 composite photoanode via a two-step solid state reaction with high efficiency for DSSCs
Authors: Wen Qiuxiang , Zhuang Jia , He Quangui , Deng Yang , Li Haimin , Guo Jiang
Published: October 2015

ZnO, SnO2, simple mixed ZnO/SnO2 (S-ZnO/SnO2) and complex composite ZnO/SnO2 (C-ZnO/SnO2) photoanode films were prepared and applied to DSSCs using a Two-step Solid State Reaction (TSSR) method.
Novel polyamides with fluorene-based triphenylamine: electrofluorescence and electrochromic properties
Authors: Sun Ningwei , Feng Fei , Wang Daming , Zhou Ziwei , Guan Yue , Dang Guodong , Zhou Hongwei , Chen Chunhai , Zhao Xiaogang
Published: October 2015

A series of novel organosoluble polyamides (4a–4e) bearing fluorene-based triphenylamine unit were prepared. These polyamides showed improved stability of electrochromic and electro-switchable fluorescence properties.
Methanobacterium enables high rate electricity-driven autotrophic sulfate reduction
Authors: Pozo Guillermo , Jourdin Ludovic , Lu Yang , Ledezma Pablo , Keller Jurg , Freguia Stefano
Published: October 2015

The autotrophic reduction of sulfate can be sustained with a cathode as the only electron donor in bioelectrochemical systems (BES).
Highly active spherical amorphous MoS2: facile synthesis and application in photocatalytic degradation of rose bengal dye and hydrogenation of nitroarenes
Authors: Saha Namrata , Sarkar Arpita , Ghosh Abhisek Brata , Dutta Amit Kumar , Bhadu Gopala Ram , Paul Parimal , Adhikary Bibhutosh
Published: October 2015

The amorphous MoS2 was derived from the MoO2(acda)2 complex via a solvothermal route and this as-synthesized particles has been found to catalyze reduction of nitroarenes to corresponding amino compounds in presence of NaBH4.
A multifunctional microporous anionic metal–organic framework for column-chromatographic dye separation and selective detection and adsorption of Cr3+
Authors: Zhang Shu-Ran , Li Jing , Du Dong-Ying , Qin Jun-Sheng , Li Shun-Li , He Wen-Wen , Su Zhong-Min , Lan Ya-Qian
Published: October 2015

An anionic MOFNENU-505exhibits selective adsorption toward cationic dyes and has been exploited for selectively sensing and adsorbing Cr3+for the first time.
High LUMO energy pyrrolidinofullerenes as promising electron-acceptor materials for organic solar cells
Authors: Mumyatov A. V. , Prudnov F. A. , Inasaridze L. N. , Mukhacheva O. A. , Troshin P. A.
Published: October 2015

Appropriately designed pyrrolidinofullerenes loaded with electron donor alkoxy groups showed enhanced VOC and power conversion efficiencies in organic solar cells.
Cystathionine β-synthase-derived hydrogen sulfide is involved in human malignant hyperthermia
Authors: Vellecco Valentina , Mancini Antonio , Ianaro Angela , Calderone Vincenzo , Attanasio Chiara , Cantalupo Anna , Andria Barbara , Savoia Gennaro , Panza Elisabetta , Di Martino Antonietta , Cirino Giuseppe , Bucci Mariarosaria
Published: October 2015

Hydrogen sulfide is an endogenous gasotransmitter and its mechanism of action involves activation of ATP-sensitive K+ channels and phosphodiesterase inhibition. As both mechanisms are potentially involved in malignant hyperthermia (MH), in the present study we addressed the involvement of the L-cysteine/hydrogen sulfide pathway in MH. Skeletal muscle biopsies obtained from 25 MH-susceptible (MHS) and 56 MH-negative (MHN) individuals have been used to perform the in vitro contracture test (IVCT). Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting studies have also been performed. Hydrogen sulfide levels are measured in both tissue samples and plasma. In MHS biopsies an increase in cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) occurs, as both mRNA and protein expression compared with MHN biopsies. Hydrogen sulfide biosynthesis is increased in MHS biopsies (0.128±0.12 compared with 0.943±0.13 nmol/mg of protein per min for MHN and MHS biopsies, respectively; P<0.01). Addition of sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) to MHS samples evokes a response similar, in the IVCT, to that elicited by either caffeine or halothane. Incubation of MHN biopsies with NaHS, before caffeine or halothane challenge, switches an MHN to an MHS response. In conclusion we demonstrate the involvement of the L-cysteine/hydrogen sulfide pathway in MH, giving new insight into MH molecular mechanisms. This finding has potential implications for clinical care and could help to define less invasive diagnostic procedures.
Outage probability analysis of spectrum sharing systems with multi‐tier secondary users
Authors: Hwang Sunghyun , Jeong Byung Jang , Park Seungkeun
Published: October 2015

In the multi‐tiered spectrum sharing systems, the exact closed‐form expression of the outage probability is derived. It is assumed that the secondary users have different priority to access spectrum. A weighing factor is introduced to identify the intra‐tier and inter‐tier interference effects. It is observed that the analytical results are well matched with the simulated results.
The monstrosity of the multitude: unredeeming radical theology
Authors: Bray Karen
Published: October 2015

If its power comes from the very value held so dear by neoliberalism—that of productivity—can the “multitude” as conceived by Michael Hardt and Antonio Negri ever fully resist the neoliberal Empire? Engaging the Autonomous Marxism of Franco “Bifo” Berardi, I argue that continued philosophical and theological emphases on productivity resonate with a soteriological narrative embedded in neoliberalism’s promise that work is redemptive. As both counter and supplement to such emphases, this essay offers an alternate reading of Hardt and Negri’s multitude through the lens of crip (disability) theory. In Sex and Disability crip theorists Anna Mollow and Robert McRuer argue that counter to Joseph Conrad’s assertion that “ ‘A man is a worker. If he is not then he is nothing,’ ” a crip politics says, “fuck employability: I’m too sick to work” (25). To embrace the stigma of sickness is to question the demands of productive labour on offer by society. A similar crip politics, one that tells the Empire it is too sick to work and too slow to be efficient, might loose the multitude from its redeployment in the very technologies of power Hardt and Negri hope to counter. Looking to figures of monstrosity, I argue that productivist tendencies within radical theology betray the field’s crip potential. Ultimately, this essay seeks to recover the multitude’s monstrosity from within Hardt and Negri’s corpus. A return to its monstrosity returns the multitude to its unproductive potency, that which wanders away from demands of social cohesion, and thus resists redemptive wholeness. This article is published as part of a collection dedicated to radical theologies.
Two-temperature transport coefficients of SF6–N2 plasma
Authors: Yang Fei , Chen Zhexin , Wu Yi , Rong Mingzhe , Guo Anxiang , Liu Zirui , Wang Chunlin
Published: October 2015

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) is widely adopted in electric power industry, especially in high-voltage circuit breakers and gas-insulated switchgear. However, the use of SF6 is limited by its high liquidation temperature and high global warming potential. Recently, research shows SF6–N2 mixture, which shows environmental friendliness and good electrical properties, may be a feasible substitute for pure SF6. This paper is devoted to the calculation of and transport coefficients of SF6–N2 mixture under both LTE (local thermodynamic equilibrium) and non-LTE condition. The two–temperature mass action law was used to determine the composition. The transport coefficients were calculated by classical Chapman–Enskog method simplified by Devoto. The thermophysical properties are presented for electron temperatures of 300–40 000 K, ratios of electron to heavy species temperature of 1–10 and N2 mole fraction of 0%–100% at atmospheric pressure. The ionization processes under both LTE and non-LTE have been discussed. The results show that deviations from local thermodynamic equilibrium significantly affect the properties of SF6–N2 plasma, especially before the plasma is fully ionized. The different influence of N2 on properties for SF6–N2 plasma in and out of LTE has been found. The results will serve as reliable reference data for computational simulation of the behavior of SF6–N2 plasmas.
Molecular structure of the discotic liquid crystalline phase of hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene/oligothiophene hybrid and their charge transport properties
Authors: Bag Saientan , Maingi Vishal , Maiti Prabal K. , Yelk Joe , Glaser Matthew A. , Walba David M. , Clark Noel A.
Published: October 2015

Using atomistic molecular dynamics simulation, we study the discotic columnar liquid crystalline (LC) phases formed by a new organic compound having hexa-peri-Hexabenzocoronene (HBC) core with six pendant oligothiophene units recently synthesized by Nan Hu et al. [Adv. Mater. 26, 2066 (2014)]. This HBC core based LC phase was shown to have electric field responsive behavior and has important applications in organic electronics. Our simulation results confirm the hexagonal arrangement of columnar LC phase with a lattice spacing consistent with that obtained from small angle X-ray diffraction data. We have also calculated various positional and orientational correlation functions to characterize the ordering of the molecules in the columnar arrangement. The molecules in a column are arranged with an average twist of 25° having an average inter-molecular separation of ∼5 Å. Interestingly, we find an overall tilt angle of 43° between the columnar axis and HBC core. We also simulate the charge transport through this columnar phase and report the numerical value of charge carrier mobility for this liquid crystal phase. The charge carrier mobility is strongly influenced by the twist angle and average spacing of the molecules in the column.
Self-induced steady-state magnetic field in the negative ion sources with localized rf power deposition
Authors: Shivarova A. , Todorov D. , Lishev St.
Published: October 2015

The study is in the scope of a recent activity on modeling of SPIDER (Source for Production of Ions of Deuterium Extracted from RF plasma) which is under development regarding the neutral beam injection heating system of ITER. The regime of non-ambipolarity in the source, established before, is completed here by introducing in the model the steady state magnetic field, self-induced in the discharge due to the dc current flowing in it. Strong changes in the discharge structure are reported.
A structurally decoupled mechanism for measuring wrist torque in three degrees of freedom
Authors: Pan Lizhi , Yang Zhen , Zhang Dingguo
Published: October 2015

The wrist joint is a critical part of the human body for movement. Measuring the torque of the wrist with three degrees of freedom (DOFs) is important in some fields, including rehabilitation, biomechanics, ergonomics, and human-machine interfacing. However, the particular structure of the wrist joint makes it difficult to measure the torque in all three directions simultaneously. This work develops a structurally decoupled instrument for measuring and improving the measurement accuracy of 3-DOF wrist torque during isometric contraction. Three single-axis torque sensors were embedded in a customized mechanical structure. The dimensions and components of the instrument were designed based on requirement of manufacturability. A prototype of the instrument was machined, assembled, integrated, and tested. The results show that the structurally decoupled mechanism is feasible for acquiring wrist torque data in three directions either independently or simultaneously. As a case study, we use the device to measure wrist torques concurrently with electromyography signal acquisition in preparation for simultaneous and proportional myoelectric control of prostheses.
Substrate doping: A strategy for enhancing reactivity on gold nanocatalysts by tuning sp bands
Authors: Mammen Nisha , de Gironcoli Stefano , Narasimhan Shobhana
Published: October 2015

We suggest that the reactivity of Au nanocatalysts can be greatly increased by doping the oxide substrate on which they are placed with an electron donor. To demonstrate this, we perform density functional theory calculations on a model system consisting of a 20-atom gold cluster placed on a MgO substrate doped with Al atoms. We show that not only does such substrate doping switch the morphology of the nanoparticles from the three-dimensional tetrahedral form to the two-dimensional planar form, but it also significantly lowers the barrier for oxygen dissociation by an amount proportional to the dopant concentration. At a doping level of 2.78%, the dissociation barrier is reduced by more than half, which corresponds to a speeding up of the oxygen dissociation rate by five orders of magnitude at room temperature. This arises from a lowering in energy of the s and p states of Au. The d states are also lowered in energy, however, this by itself would have tended to reduce reactivity. We propose that a suitable measure of the reactivity of Au nanoparticles is the difference in energy of sp and d states.
Piezo-optic tensor of crystals from quantum-mechanical calculations
Authors: Erba A. , Ruggiero M. T. , Korter T. M. , Dovesi R.
Published: October 2015

An automated computational strategy is devised for the ab initio determination of the full fourth-rank piezo-optic tensor of crystals belonging to any space group of symmetry. Elastic stiffness and compliance constants are obtained as numerical first derivatives of analytical energy gradients with respect to the strain and photo-elastic constants as numerical derivatives of analytical dielectric tensor components, which are in turn computed through a Coupled-Perturbed-Hartree-Fock/Kohn-Sham approach, with respect to the strain. Both point and translation symmetries are exploited at all steps of the calculation, within the framework of periodic boundary conditions. The scheme is applied to the determination of the full set of ten symmetry-independent piezo-optic constants of calcium tungstate CaWO4, which have recently been experimentally reconstructed. Present calculations unambiguously determine the absolute sign (positive) of the π61 constant, confirm the reliability of 6 out of 10 experimentally determined constants and provide new, more accurate values for the remaining 4 constants.
Magnetized hollow cathode activated magnetron
Authors: Baránková H. , Bardos L. , Bardos A.
Published: October 2015

Planar magnetron in which the target is coupled with a magnetized hollow cathode is presented. Detailed principles of such arrangements are explained. The hollow cathode activated magnetron produces intense and stable plasmas in a wider interval of the working gas pressures as compared to the conventional magnetrons at the same power. The developed arrangements enhance sputtering from the magnetron target by the high-density hollow cathode plasma and increase the number of sputtered/evaporated species. Results of the test experiments of these arrangements on a commercial planar magnetron with the Ti target are presented and their capabilities discussed.
Imaging of phase change materials below a capping layer using correlative infrared near-field microscopy and electron microscopy
Authors: Lewin M. , Hauer B. , Bornhöfft M. , Jung L. , Benke J. , Michel A.-K. U. , Mayer J. , Wuttig M. , Taubner T.
Published: October 2015

Phase Change Materials (PCM) show two stable states in the solid phase with significantly different optical and electronic properties. They can be switched reversibly between those two states and are promising candidates for future non-volatile memory applications. The development of phase change devices demands characterization tools, yielding information about the switching process at high spatial resolution. Scattering-type Scanning Near-field Optical Microscopy (s-SNOM) allows for spectroscopic analyses of the different optical properties of the PCMs on the nm-scale. By correlating the optical s-SNOM images with transmission electron microscopy images of the same sample, we unambiguously demonstrate the correlation of the infrared optical contrast with the structural state of the phase change material. The investigated sample consists of sandwiched amorphous and crystalline regions of Ag4In3Sb67Te26 below a 100 nm thick (ZnS)80−(SiO2)20 capping layer. Our results demonstrate the sensitivity of s-SNOM to small dielectric near-field contrasts even below a comparably thick capping layer (100 nm).
All-metal metamaterial slow-wave structure for high-power sources with high efficiency
Authors: Wang Yanshuai , Duan Zhaoyun , Tang Xianfeng , Wang Zhanliang , Zhang Yabin , Feng Jinjun , Gong Yubin
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we have proposed a metamaterial (MTM) which is suitable for the compact high-power vacuum electron devices. For example, an S-band slow-wave structure (SWS) based on the all-metal MTMs has been studied by both simulation and experiment. The results show that this MTM SWS is very helpful to miniaturize the high-power vacuum electron devices and largely improve the output power and the electronic efficiency. The simulation model of an S-band MTM backward wave oscillator (BWO) is built, and the particle-in-cell simulated results are presented here: a 2.454 GHz signal is generated and its peak output power is 4.0 MW with a higher electronic efficiency of 31.5% relative to the conventional BWOs.
Experimental validation of a transformation optics based lens for beam steering
Authors: Yi Jianjia , Burokur Shah Nawaz , de Lustrac André
Published: October 2015

A transformation optics based lens for beam control is experimentally realized and measured at microwave frequencies. Laplace's equation is adopted to construct the mapping between the virtual and physical spaces. The metamaterial-based lens prototype is designed using electric LC resonators. A planar microstrip antenna source is used as transverse electric polarized wave launcher for the lens. Both the far field radiation patterns and the near-field distributions have been measured to experimentally demonstrate the beam steering properties. Measurements agree quantitatively and qualitatively with numerical simulations, and a non-narrow frequency bandwidth operation is observed.
Enhanced conversion efficiency in wide-bandgap GaNP solar cells
Authors: Sukrittanon S. , Liu R. , Ro Y. G. , Pan J. L. , Jungjohann K. L. , Tu C. W. , Dayeh S. A.
Published: October 2015

In this work, we demonstrate ∼2.05 eV dilute nitride GaNP solar cells on GaP substrates for potential use as the top junction in dual-junction integrated cells on Si. By adding a small amount of N into indirect-bandgap GaP, GaNP has several extremely important attributes: a direct-bandgap that is also tunable, and easily attained lattice-match with Si. Our best GaNP solar cell ([N] ∼ 1.8%, Eg ∼ 2.05 eV) achieves an efficiency of 7.9%, even in the absence of a window layer. This GaNP solar cell's efficiency is 3× higher than the most efficient GaP solar cell to date and higher than other solar cells with similar direct bandgap (InGaP, GaAsP). Through a systematic study of the structural, electrical, and optical properties of the device, efficient broadband optical absorption and enhanced solar cell performance are demonstrated.
Mn(II)2Gd(III)3 Phosphonate as a Molecular Refrigerant
Authors: Tang Xiaoyan , Xu Ye , Ye Wenpeng , Tang Yan , Ma Yunsheng , Yuan Rongxin
Published: October 2015

3d-Gd phosphonate clusters are attractive for their potential applications as magnetic coolers. A new pentanuclear cluster [Mn(II)2Gd(III)3(OH)(dtbmfPO3)2(tBuCO2)8(HO2CtBu)(H2O)2]·HO2CtBu·CH3CN (1) (dtbmfPO3H2 = (2,7-di-tert-butyl-9-methyl-9H-fluoren-9-yl)phosphonic acid) has been synthesised and characterised. The cluster has a planar structure in which the trinuclear {MnGd2(OH)} and dinuclear {MnGdO2} units are joined together by two phosphonate groups. The magnetic studies reveal that 1 shows antiferromagnetic interactions and a large magnetocaloric effect (ΔS = 20.9 J kg–1 K–1 at ΔH = 7 T).
Effect of infrastructure design on commons dilemmas in social−ecological system dynamics
Authors: Yu David J. , Qubbaj Murad R. , Muneepeerakul Rachata , Anderies John M. , Aggarwal Rimjhim M.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Recent years have witnessed an explosion of interdisciplinary research on social−ecological systems (SESs), which has typically viewed SESs as self-organized systems. This view, however, may be incomplete in that many modern SESs are in fact part designed and part self-organized, i.e., the coupled processes in most SESs are mediated by consciously designed infrastructure. We examined how design features of infrastructure shape the long-term dynamics of SESs, using a model of an irrigation system (an exemplary case of a partly designed SES). We show that two design features common to many SESs—the structure of benefit flows and the scale of effort needed to maintain infrastructure—can induce fundamental changes in qualitative behavior as well as altered robustness characteristics.
Historical dynamics in ecosystem service bundles
Authors: Renard Delphine , Rhemtulla Jeanine M. , Bennett Elena M.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Most approaches to quantifying and mapping ecosystem services (ES) focus on a single point in time. This static approach cannot provide insight into whether and how the provision of ES changes through time. We examined spatiotemporal ES dynamics by reconstructing the regional provision of nine ES over 35 y. Our approach demonstrated that individual services, ES bundles, and interactions among ES changed across both time and space. We also identified trajectories of ES bundle change and explained how these changes were driven by policy, biophysical, and socioeconomic characteristics. Our study demonstrates the limitations of assuming stationarity in ES and their relationships, and emphasizes the importance of taking into account both time and space in the assessment of multiple ES.
Topological framework for local structure analysis in condensed matter
Authors: Lazar Emanuel A. , Han Jian , Srolovitz David J.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Richard Feynman famously described the hypothesis “All things are made of atoms” as among the most significant of all scientific knowledge. How atoms are arranged in “things” is an interesting and natural question. However, aside from perfect crystals and ideal gases, understanding these arrangements in an insightful yet tractable manner is challenging. We introduce a unified mathematical framework for classifying and identifying local structure in imperfect condensed matter systems using Voronoi topology. This versatile approach enables visualization and analysis of a wide range of complex atomic systems, including highly defected solids and glass-forming liquids. The proposed framework presents a new perspective into the structure of discrete systems of particles, ordered and disordered alike.
Habitual control of goal selection in humans
Authors: Cushman Fiery , Morris Adam
Published: October 2015

Significance

Human cognition makes widespread use of goal-directed planning. However, exhaustive forward planning for tasks of real-world complexity is prohibitively computationally demanding. Much research aims to find efficient mechanisms for approximate planning. We describe an approach to this problem that exploits the computational efficiency of habit learning to select goal states that are subsequently used in planning. We also provide experimental evidence that humans implement this approach. Our findings illuminate the basis of learning and choice in humans, demonstrate an integration between mechanisms of habitual and planned control, and contribute to the development of computationally tractable planning algorithms.
Sulfur radical species form gold deposits on Earth
Authors: Pokrovski Gleb S. , Kokh Maria A. , Guillaume Damien , Borisova Anastassia Y. , Gisquet Pascal , Hazemann Jean-Louis , Lahera Eric , Del Net William , Proux Olivier , Testemale Denis , Haigis Volker , Jonchière Romain , Seitsonen Ari P. , Ferlat Guillaume , Vuilleumier Rodolphe , Saitta Antonino Marco , Boiron Marie-Christine , Dubessy Jean
Published: October 2015

Significance

Gold resources on Earth result from an exceptional concentration phenomenon yielding metal contents in ore a thousand to a million times higher than those in common rocks. We show that this process is controlled by sulfur radical ions (

S
3
−

), which strongly bind Au in aqueous solution at elevated temperatures and pressures and allow very efficient extraction, transport, and deposition of gold by geological fluids. Thus, the most inert metal of the periodic table may be very mobile, which explains key features of known gold deposits and offers new possibilities for resource prospecting. Furthermore, the high capacity of the radical ions to solubilize gold may be used for its selective extraction from ores and hydrothermal synthesis of Au-based nanomaterials.
Contribution of a mutational hot spot to hemoglobin adaptation in high-altitude Andean house wrens
Authors: Galen Spencer C. , Natarajan Chandrasekhar , Moriyama Hideaki , Weber Roy E. , Fago Angela , Benham Phred M. , Chavez Andrea N. , Cheviron Zachary A. , Storz Jay F. , Witt Christopher C.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Within a given gene, there may be many possible mutations that are capable of producing a particular change in phenotype. However, if some sites have especially high rates of mutation to function-altering alleles, then such mutations may make disproportionate contributions to phenotypic evolution. We report the discovery that a point mutation at a highly mutable site in the β-globin gene of Andean house wrens has produced a physiologically important change in the oxygenation properties of hemoglobin (Hb). The mutant allele that confers an increased Hb–O2affinity is present at an unusually high frequency at high altitude. These findings suggest that site-specific variation in mutation rate may exert a strong influence on the genetic basis of phenotypic evolution.
Systemic, postsymptomatic antisense oligonucleotide rescues motor unit maturation delay in a new mouse model for type II/III spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Bogdanik Laurent P. , Osborne Melissa A. , Davis Crystal , Martin Whitney P. , Austin Andrew , Rigo Frank , Bennett C. Frank , Lutz Cathleen M.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is one of the most frequent infantile genetic diseases and impairs breathing and locomotion. Promoting RNA splicing of one of the genes involved in SMA leads to spectacular improvements in laboratory models. Splicing modulators such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) therefore come to the forefront of therapeutic candidates. However, timing of delivery and route of administration still need to be optimized. Do ASOs have to be delivered into the central nervous system, and are ASOs still efficient if administered late after disease onset? In a new mouse model for SMA, we show that ASOs were efficacious when delivered outside of the spinal cord and late after the onset of the symptoms of the animals.
Successful arrest of photoreceptor and vision loss expands the therapeutic window of retinal gene therapy to later stages of disease
Authors: Beltran William A. , Cideciyan Artur V. , Iwabe Simone , Swider Malgorzata , Kosyk Mychajlo S. , McDaid Kendra , Martynyuk Inna , Ying Gui-Shuang , Shaffer James , Deng Wen-Tao , Boye Sanford L. , Lewin Alfred S. , Hauswirth William W. , Jacobson Samuel G. , Aguirre Gustavo D.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Corrective gene therapies for inherited retinal degenerations are being developed with the expectation that even patients in later stages of the disease will benefit from such intervention. Evidence in animal models for a rescue after the onset of photoreceptor loss is scarce, and recent results from patients enrolled in two of the gene therapy clinical trials for a congenital form of blindness (RPE65-LCA) show that, despite transient improvement in visual function, photoreceptor cell death remains unabated. Here we show in a canine model for a common and severe form of X-linked retinal degeneration that gene therapy successfully stops photoreceptor cell death, improves the structure of retinal cells, and prevents vision loss for more than 2 y.
Elevated levels of diesel range organic compounds in groundwater near Marcellus gas operations are derived from surface activities
Authors: Drollette Brian D. , Hoelzer Kathrin , Warner Nathaniel R. , Darrah Thomas H. , Karatum Osman , O’Connor Megan P. , Nelson Robert K. , Fernandez Loretta A. , Reddy Christopher M. , Vengosh Avner , Jackson Robert B. , Elsner Martin , Plata Desiree L.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Organic compounds found in drinking water aquifers above the Marcellus Shale and other shale plays could reflect natural geologic transport processes or contamination from anthropogenic activities, including enhanced natural gas production. Using analyses of organic compounds coupled with inorganic geochemical fingerprinting, estimates of groundwater residence time, and geospatial analyses of shale gas wells and disclosed safety violations, we determined that the dominant source of organic compounds to shallow aquifers was consistent with surface spills of disclosed chemical additives. There was no evidence of association with deeper brines or long-range migration of these compounds to the shallow aquifers. Encouragingly, drinking water sources affected by disclosed surface spills could be targeted for treatment and monitoring to protect public health.
Noninvasive monitoring of infection and rejection after lung transplantation
Authors: De Vlaminck Iwijn , Martin Lance , Kertesz Michael , Patel Kapil , Kowarsky Mark , Strehl Calvin , Cohen Garrett , Luikart Helen , Neff Norma F. , Okamoto Jennifer , Nicolls Mark R. , Cornfield David , Weill David , Valantine Hannah , Khush Kiran K. , Quake Stephen R.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Over 3,500 patients receive life-saving lung transplants every year. Nonetheless, complications due to infection and rejection occur frequently and undermine the long-term benefits of lung transplantation. Although clinicians strive to carefully monitor patients, diagnostic options are often limited. Rejection monitoring currently relies on invasive tissue biopsies, and tests of infection are predominately limited to testing one pathogen at a time. This manuscript describes a noninvasive assay based on sequencing of circulating cell-free DNA that simultaneously enables diagnosis of rejection and broad screening of infections.
Structure of ATP synthase from
Paracoccus denitrificans
determined by X-ray crystallography at 4.0 Å resolution
Authors: Morales-Rios Edgar , Montgomery Martin G. , Leslie Andrew G. W. , Walker John E.
Published: October 2015

Significance

ATP, the fuel of life, is produced in living cells by a complex molecular machine consisting of two motors linked by a rotor. One motor generates rotation by consuming energy derived from oxidative metabolism or photosynthesis; the other uses energy transmitted by the rotor to put ATP molecules together from their building blocks, ADP and phosphate. One such intact machine from the α-proteobacterium
Paracoccus denitrificans
has been induced to form crystals, providing the means of deducing a blueprint of the machine, giving details of how its components are organized, and providing insights into how it works. The mechanistic principles deduced from the bacterial machine apply to similar molecular machines found in all living organisms.
Lgr6 marks nail stem cells and is required for digit tip regeneration
Authors: Lehoczky Jessica A. , Tabin Clifford J.
Published: October 2015

Significance

Although full mammalian limbs do not regenerate after amputation, the fingertips of select mammalian species do. Understanding digit tip regeneration at the molecular level can potentially provide insight into designing translational therapies for regrowing greater portions of the limbs and other nonregenerative tissues. The nail is known to be critical for digit tip regeneration, at least in part through a mechanism dependent on Wnt signaling. Here, we identify a cell population expressing a mediator of Wnt signaling, Lgr6 (leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 6), as key stem cells for the nail. Moreover, we find that
Lgr6
is required for proper digit tip regeneration.
The Xenopus tropicalis orthologue of TRPV3 is heat sensitive
Authors: Liu Beiying , Qin Feng
Published: October 2015

Thermosensitive members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels (thermal TRP channels) play a crucial role in mammalian temperature sensing. Orthologues of these channels are present in lower vertebrates and, remarkably, some thermal TRP orthologues from different species appear to mediate opposing responses to temperature. For example, whereas the mammalian TRPV3 channel is activated by heat, frog TRPV3 is reportedly activated by cold. Intrigued by the potential implications of these opposing responses to temperature for the mechanism of temperature-dependent gating, we cloned Xenopus laevis TRPV3 and functionally expressed it in both mammalian cell lines and Xenopus oocytes. We found that, when expressed in mammalian cells, the recombinant channel lacks the reported cold sensitivity; rather, it is activated by temperatures >50°C. Furthermore, when expressed in mammalian cells, the frog orthologue shows other features characteristic of mammalian TRPV3, including activation by the agonist 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate and an increased response with repeated stimulation. We detected both heat- and cold-activated currents in Xenopus oocytes expressing the recombinant frog TRPV3 channel. However, cold-activated currents were also apparent in control oocytes lacking recombinant TRPV3. Our data indicate that frog TRPV3 resembles its mammalian orthologues in terms of its thermosensitivity and is intrinsically activated by heat. Thus, all known vanilloid receptors are activated by heat. Our data also show that Xenopus oocytes contain endogenous receptors that are activated by cold, and suggest that cold sensitivity of TRP channels established using Xenopus oocytes as a functional expression system may need to be revisited.
False precision, surprise and improved uncertainty assessment
Authors: Parker Wendy S. , Risbey James S.
Published: October 2015

An uncertainty report describes the extent of an agent’s uncertainty about some matter. We identify two basic requirements for uncertainty reports, which we callfaithfulnessandcompleteness. We then discuss two pitfalls of uncertainty assessment that often result in reports that fail to meet these requirements. The first involves adopting a one-size-fits-all approach to the representation of uncertainty, while the second involves failing to take account of the risk of surprises. In connection with the latter, we respond to the objection that it is impossible to account for the risk of genuine surprises. After outlining some steps that both scientists and the bodies who commission uncertainty assessments can take to help avoid these pitfalls, we explain why striving for faithfulness and completeness is important.
Climate sensitivity uncertainty: when is good news bad?
Authors: Freeman Mark C. , Wagner Gernot , Zeckhauser Richard J.
Published: October 2015

Climate change is real and dangerous. Exactly how bad it will get, however, is uncertain. Uncertainty is particularly relevant for estimates of one of the key parameters: equilibrium climate sensitivity—how eventual temperatures will react as atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations double. Despite significant advances in climate science and increased confidence in the accuracy of the range itself, the ‘likely’ range has been 1.5–4.5°C for over three decades. In 2007, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) narrowed it to 2–4.5°C, only to reverse its decision in 2013, reinstating the prior range. In addition, the 2013 IPCC report removed prior mention of 3°C as the ‘best estimate’. We interpret the implications of the 2013 IPCC decision to lower the bottom of the range and excise a best estimate. Intuitively, it might seem that a lower bottom would be good news. Here we ask: when might apparently good news about climate sensitivity in fact be bad news in the sense that it lowers societal well-being? The lowered bottom value also implies higher uncertainty about the temperature increase, definitely bad news. Under reasonable assumptions, both the lowering of the lower bound and the removal of the ‘best estimate’ may well be bad news.
Theoretical and methodological advances in cluster research
Authors: Reve Torger , Sasson Amir
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to assess the dissemination of cluster ideas advanced in the “Competitive Advantage of Nations” and three subsequent national studies and the reasons for their substantial public policy impact in Norway.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper presents the theoretical and methodological novelties of each of the national studies, the inclusive study-organizing principle used and public policy impact.

Findings

– The papers finds that the dissemination of cluster thinking and the development of a successful cluster-based industrial policy in Norway is largely a function of the nature and extent of the cluster research efforts that took place in Norway. The national cluster research projects mobilized all the key industrial and governmental actors in a very effective way, making studies with both rigor and relevance. Due to advanced and demanding policy makers, the studies also evolved in terms of the theoretical models and methodologies used.

Originality/value

– The paper contributes by illuminating the direct and indirect impact of the “Competitive Advantage of Nations” on both academic endeavors and public policies in Norway and by explicating how studies that make it possible for academics and practitioners to work in tandem substantially affect public policy.
Group-based mindfulness-informed psychological first aid after Typhoon Haiyan
Authors: Hechanova Regina M. , Ramos Pia Anna P. , Waelde Lynn
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop and evaluate a culturally sensitive and mindfulness informed psychological first aid (PFA) intervention for use with disaster workers in the Philippines intended to increase disaster knowledge and disaster coping self-efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study used a non-experimental, pre-test, post-test design. Measures of disaster knowledge and disaster coping self-efficacy were measured before and after the PFA intervention.

Findings

– Paired sample t-tests revealed significant pre/post-increases in knowledge about disaster reactions and disaster coping self-efficacy. Workshop evaluations indicated that the following proportions of participants rated these workshop components as the most useful: mindfulness, information about disaster reactions, small group sharing, information about coping, and the open space activity.

Research limitations/implications

– As in many disaster studies, it was not possible to include a randomized control group in the design. Another limitation was that only pre- and post-intervention data were collected. Future research should include longer-term follow-ups with participants to assess whether the benefits of the intervention are maintained over time. Future research may wish to address the limitations of the study including the lack of a control group and obtaining follow-up data to enable more robust conclusions.

Practical implications

– These results indicate how the use of a group-based intervention may be helpful especially in a collectivist culture. At the same time, acknowledging cultural values such as spirituality is an important component to providing psychosocial support for survivors. Mindfulness was found useful both as an initial calming activity as well as a means for helping survivors manage their stress reactions. Finally, the utilization of an open space activity can also be a helpful problem-solving mechanism when done in intact groups, as it enhances not just self-efficacy but also community efficacy among survivors.

Originality/value

– The study contributes to the dearth of knowledge on the use of PFA when used in a group, collective, and developing country setting.
The voice of the customer in the design of organized retail stores
Authors: Prakash Gyan , Vohra Abhinav , Sahney Sangeeta
Published: October 2015

Subject area

Marketing, retail.

Study level/applicability

The case study is specific to the marketing demographics of Indian shoppers with respect to organized retail stores, and therefore, the inter-relationships between various design elements and the relative importance of certain parameters discussed in the text may not follow the same pattern elsewhere in the world.

Case overview

The case emulates the real-life situation of an organized retail store, Super Mart, to understand the inculcation of voice of the customer in the design of organized retail stores in India. It gives insights about factors which influence the shopping intent of customers while giving information about the inter-relationships among various design characteristics. It also gives an idea about inter-dependence between design characteristics and customer requirements. This is followed by certain questions, the responses to which can be interpreted from the text and the data provided therein.

Expected learning outcomes

The case aims to educate its audience about the following aspects of organized retail business: factors influencing offline shopping intent of customers; relative order of importance of customer requirements with respect to organized retail stores; inter-relationships between various design elements; and future trends in the organized retail space. Such a knowledge would help hone the skills of the next generation of business leaders in the retail space.

Supplementary materials

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