bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scale Free Processes in Stellar Cluster Formation
Authors: Bastian Nate
Published: October 2016

We review some of the basic population properties of stellar clusters, as well as how they relate to star-formation more broadly within their host galaxies. Despite the common assertion, the vast majority of stars do not form within stellar clusters. For typical galaxies (including the solar neighbourhood), the fraction of stars forming in clusters is ~10%. There are indications however that this fraction increases as a function of increasing star-formation rate surface density, in agreement with model predictions (based on a turbulent ISM and relatively straight-forward prescriptions of star-formation).
Astrophysical dynamos: the limit of vanishing diffusivity
Authors: Dormy Emmanuel , Bouya Ismaël
Published: October 2016

Astrophysical dynamos are usually characterised by huge values of the magnetic Reynolds number (Rm). This reflects the short turn-over time compared to the resistive time. The extreme values of Rm relevant to astrophysical objects cannot be tackled with today's numerical resources and this number is always under-estimated by several orders of magnitudes in numerical models.

Here we chose to focus on an extremely simplified problem (dynamo action from a periodic steady flow) and take advantage of this simplicity to numerically investigate the limit of very large magnetic Reynolds number. We present results recently published in physics journals, which highlight the difficulty of approaching the limit in which dynamo action is independent of the value of the ohmic resistivity (measured by 1/Rm), known as the “fast dynamo” limit. Using state of the art high performance computing, we present high resolution simulations (up to (40963) and extend the value of (Rm) up to (5⋅105).
Making baryons dark: variation of cross section with approach to equilibrium
Authors: Ernest Allan D , Collins Matthew P.
Published: October 2016

We show that as equilibrium is approached in deep gravity wells, such as those of galactic halos, gravitational quantum theory predicts that radial particle densities ρ(r) tend toward 1/r2 profiles, and photon-baryon scattering cross sections are significantly reduced.
A universal, turbulence-regulated, multi-freefall star formation law
Authors: Federrath Christoph , Salim Diane M. , Kewley Lisa J.
Published: October 2016

We develop a new star formation (SF) law based on the density PDF of turbulence and on the multi-freefall concept of gas collapse. We derive a relation where the star formation rate (SFR) correlates with the molecular gas mass per multi-freefall time, whereas previous models had used the average, single-freefall time. We define a new quantity called maximum (multi-freefall) gas consumption rate (MGCR) and show that the actual SFR is only about 0.4% of this maximum possible SFR, confirming the observed low efficiency of star formation.
The Frontier Fields: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Lotz Jennifer ,   the Frontier Fields Implementation team
Published: October 2016

Exceptionally deep observations of the distant universe with the Hubble Space Telescope have consistently pushed the frontiers of human knowledge. How deep can we go? What are the faintest and most distant galaxies we can see with the Hubble Space Telescope now, before the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope? This is the challenge taken up by the Frontier Fields, a director's discretionary time campaign with HST and the Spitzer Space Telescope to see deeper into the universe than ever before. The Frontier Fields combines the power of HST with the natural gravitational telescopes of high-magnification clusters of galaxies to produce the deepest observations of clusters and their lensed galaxies ever obtained. I will review the original goals of the Frontier Fields program and its progress over the last several years. In addition to pushing forward the study of the most distant galaxies, the Frontier Fields have been transformative in the study of galaxy clusters and their lensing properties. Finally, I will discuss the prospects for studying galaxies at cosmic dawn with JWST, extremely large ground-based telescopes, and future space missions over the next decade and beyond.
FM 22. Mapping the Frontier Fields with Chandra X-ray Observations
Authors: Jones C. , van Weeren R. , Ogrean G. , Forman W.
Published: October 2016

Chandra has deeply observed the clusters and parallel fields in four Frontier Fields. These observations allow us to dramatically improve our understanding of cluster mergers by comparing the detailed mapping of the hot cluster gas with high resolution mass maps and by identifying merger shocks and cold fronts. In merging clusters, relativistic particles can be re-accelerated to produce radio relics. A comparison of lensing maps and Chandra images allows us to determine the cluster morphology and dynamical state and if there are offsets between the dark matter and the hot gas.
GLASS: The Grism Lens-Amplified Survey From Space. HST Grism Spectroscopy of the Frontier Fields
Authors: Schmidt Kasper B. ,   The GLASS Team
Published: October 2016

The Grism Lens-Amplified Survey From Space (GLASS) is a 140 orbit spectroscopic survey of 10 massive galaxy clusters, including the six Hubble Frontier Fields. GLASS has observed the cluster cores with the HST-WFC3 G102 and G141 grisms providing a wide wavelength coverage in the near-infrared from roughly 0.8–1.7μm. The parallel fields were observed through the optical ACS G800L grism. Taking advantage of the lensing magnification of the clusters, GLASS reaches intrinsic spectroscopic 1σ flux limits of roughly 10-18erg/s/cm2 and improved spatial resolution for lensed sources behind the clusters. These features are particularly useful for the three main science drivers of GLASS which are, I) exploring the universe at the epoch of reionization, II) describe how metals cycle in and out of galaxies, and III) asses the environmental dependence of galaxy evolution. The former two benefit highly from the improved depth and increased resolution provided by the cluster lensing. Apart from the main science drivers, a slew of ancillary science has been enabled by the survey, including improving cluster lens modeling and searches for supernovae. Here we present the survey and the GLASS data releases, which are continuously being made available to the community through https://archive.stsci.edu/prepds/glass/. For further information we refer to Schmidt et al. (2014), Treu et al. (2015), and http://glass.physics.ucsb.edu.
Tightening the constraints on the mass distribution of the Frontier Fields MACSJ0416.1-2403 with VLT/MUSE spectroscopy
Authors: Clément Benjamin , Richard Johan , Mahler Guillaume , Patrício Vera , Lagattuta David ,   the MUSE Consortium
Published: October 2016

We have combined the performances of the VLT/MUSE spectrograph together with the power of gravitational lensing by Frontier Fields galaxy clusters to offer a unique magnified view of the distant universe. The large field of view over a wide optical wavelength domain enables redshift measurements of numerous lensed galaxies in the cluster core. Spectroscopically-confirmed multiple-imaged systems are further used as strong constraints to improve the cluster mass model. Here, we focus on the galaxy cluster MACSJ0416.1-2403 and compare the revised magnification map with results from previous analysis.
Pushing the Frontiers: uncovering the earliest galaxies in the Hubble Frontier Fields
Authors: Livermore Rachael C.
Published: October 2016

With the combination of deep Hubble Space Telescope imaging and magnification due to gravitational lensing, the Hubble Frontier Fields program offers an unprecedented opportunity to study the faint end of the luminosity function at the highest redshifts. Unfortunately, the region of the field that benefits most from this magnification (the immediate vicinity of the critical line) suffers from a high abundance of bright foreground galaxies and high background due to intracluster light. To overcome these difficulties, some method of modelling and subtracting the foreground light is required. Here, I present results using wavelet decomposition to subtract large-scale structures in the clusters, which significantly increases the effective depth of the images, and crucially opens up the most magnified regions of the clusters.
A young star-forming galaxy at z = 3.5 with an extended Lyman α halo seen with MUSE
Authors: Patrício Vera , Richard Johan , Verhamme Anne ,   the MUSE consortium
Published: October 2016

We present MUSE observations of a typical (M⋆ = 6 × 109M⊙) young lensed galaxy at z=3.5, for which we obtain 2D resolved spatial information of Ly α and, for the first time, of C iii] emission. We also derive important physical properties from several UV emission and absorption lines, rarely seen at these redshifts. Stellar and gas-phase metallicities point towards a low metallicity object. We model the Ly α line and surface brightness profile using a radiative transfer code in an expanding gas shell, finding that this model provides a reasonable description of both observables.
Practical Idealism: The Musical Patronage of Phoebe Apperson Hearst
Authors: MILLER LETA E.
Published: October 2016

Phoebe Apperson Hearst, called “California's greatest woman” at her death in 1919, was very rich—and very philanthropic. Despite attending school in rural Missouri only a year or so past the eighth grade, Hearst directed her most influential benefactions toward education, particularly for women. She became a prime mover in the kindergarten movement and PTA, established women's scholarships at UC Berkeley, and was UC's first female regent.

This article, drawing on Hearst's extensive archive, describes music's role in her philanthropy. She supported individual artists and ensembles, staged elaborate musicales at her various homes, funded music performing spaces, patronized renowned singers and instrumentalists, provided musical performances for college students and the general public, and encouraged the formation of an opera school.

As a female patron championing women's education, Hearst was caught between the conservative ideology of male–female “spheres” and the New Woman movement of the early twentieth century. Her wealth allowed her to transcend old models; yet she was also conditioned by them, as shown in her attitudes toward women's suffrage and “proper” female behaviors. By bolstering the traditional view of women as the culture-bearers in U.S. society, Hearst's philanthropy functioned as both retrospective reinforcement and progressive idealism.
The Law on Trafficking in Persons: The Quest for an Effective Model
Authors: JHA Anupam
Published: October 2016

International efforts to codify the law on trafficking in persons have been evolving since the early twentieth century. This paper re-examines this journey of law and divides the existing international and domestic legal regimes into three categories: the rescue model, quasi-curative model, and curative model. The study proposes the development of an effective legal model, which may rest on the twin pillars of shared state responsibility and long-term assistance to trafficking victims. In this model, it is argued that the enunciated principles of prosecution, protection, and prevention to combat human trafficking should not be dealt with in isolation, but in combination with the concepts of state responsibility and international financial co-operation to provide long-term assistance to the victims. My central argument focuses on the suitable legal regime in which the prosecution strategy is to successfully prosecute traffickers in person, improve survivors’ protection, and reinvigorate obligations imposed on the states.
Bell to Be AGU President-Elect/Leadership Transition Begins
Authors: Finn Carol
Published: October 2016

As new AGU leaders assume their governance roles in 2017, about half of the organization's current officers will continue to serve and provide leadership continuity.
Fever-range hyperthermia improves the anti-apoptotic effect induced by low pH on human neutrophils promoting a proangiogenic profile
Authors: Díaz Fernando Erra , Dantas Ezequiel , Cabrera Maia , Benítez Constanza A , Delpino María V , Duette Gabriel , Rubione Julia , Sanjuan Norberto , Trevani Analía S , Geffner Jorge
Published: October 2016

Neutrophils have the shortest lifespan among leukocytes and usually die via apoptosis, limiting their deleterious potential. However, this tightly regulated cell death program can be modulated by pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMPs), and inflammatory cytokines. We have previously reported that low pH, a hallmark of inflammatory processes and solid tumors, moderately delays neutrophil apoptosis. Here we show that fever-range hyperthermia accelerates the rate of neutrophil apoptosis at neutral pH but markedly increases neutrophil survival induced by low pH. Interestingly, an opposite effect was observed in lymphocytes; hyperthermia plus low pH prevents lymphocyte activation and promotes the death of lymphocytes and lymphoid cell lines. Analysis of the mechanisms through which hyperthermia plus low pH increased neutrophil survival revealed that hyperthermia further decreases cytosolic pH induced by extracellular acidosis. The fact that two Na+/H+ exchanger inhibitors, 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl) amiloride (EIPA) and amiloride, reproduced the effects induced by hyperthermia suggested that it prolongs neutrophil survival by inhibiting the Na+/H+ antiporter. The neutrophil anti-apoptotic effect induced by PAMPs, DAMPs, and inflammatory cytokines usually leads to the preservation of the major neutrophil effector functions such as phagocytosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In contrast, our data revealed that the anti-apoptotic effect induced by low pH and hyperthermia induced a functional profile characterized by a low phagocytic activity, an impairment in ROS production and a high ability to suppress T-cell activation and to produce the angiogenic factors VEGF, IL-8, and the matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9). These results suggest that acting together fever and local acidosis might drive the differentiation of neutrophils into a profile able to promote both cancer progression and tissue repair during the late phase of inflammation, two processes that are strongly dependent on the local production of angiogenic factors by infiltrating immune cells.
AP1 transcription factors are required to maintain the peripheral taste system
Authors: Shandilya Jayasha , Gao Yankun , Nayak Tapan K , Roberts Stefan G E , Medler Kathryn F
Published: October 2016

The sense of taste is used by organisms to achieve the optimal nutritional requirement and avoid potentially toxic compounds. In the oral cavity, taste receptor cells are grouped together in taste buds that are present in specialized taste papillae in the tongue. Taste receptor cells are the cells that detect chemicals in potential food items and transmit that information to gustatory nerves that convey the taste information to the brain. As taste cells are in contact with the external environment, they can be damaged and are routinely replaced throughout an organism’s lifetime to maintain functionality. However, this taste cell turnover loses efficiency over time resulting in a reduction in taste ability. Currently, very little is known about the mechanisms that regulate the renewal and maintenance of taste cells. We therefore performed RNA-sequencing analysis on isolated taste cells from 2 and 6-month-old mice to determine how alterations in the taste cell-transcriptome regulate taste cell maintenance and function in adults. We found that the activator protein-1 (AP1) transcription factors (c-Fos, Fosb and c-Jun) and genes associated with this pathway were significantly downregulated in taste cells by 6 months and further declined at 12 months. We generated conditional c-Fos-knockout mice to target K14-expressing cells, including differentiating taste cells. c-Fos deletion caused a severe perturbation in taste bud structure and resulted in a significant reduction in the taste bud size. c-Fos deletion also affected taste cell turnover as evident by a decrease in proliferative marker, and upregulation of the apoptotic marker cleaved-PARP. Thus, AP1 factors are important regulators of adult taste cell renewal and their downregulation negatively impacts taste maintenance.
Irminger Sea deep convection injects oxygen and anthropogenic carbon to the ocean interior
Authors: Fröb F. , Olsen A. , Våge K. , Moore G. W. K. , Yashayaev I. , Jeansson E. , Rajasakaren B.
Published: October 2016

Deep convection in the subpolar North Atlantic ventilates the ocean for atmospheric gases through the formation of deep water masses. Variability in the intensity of deep convection is believed to have caused large variations in North Atlantic anthropogenic carbon storage over the past decades, but observations of the properties during active convection are missing. Here we document the origin, extent and chemical properties of the deepest winter mixed layers directly observed in the Irminger Sea. As a result of the deep convection in winter 2014–2015, driven by large oceanic heat loss, mid-depth oxygen concentrations were replenished and anthropogenic carbon storage rates almost tripled compared with Irminger Sea hydrographic section data in 1997 and 2003. Our observations provide unequivocal evidence that ocean ventilation and anthropogenic carbon uptake take place in the Irminger Sea and that their efficiency can be directly linked to atmospheric forcing.
Galvanic microcells as control agent of indoor microorganisms
Authors: Spisak Wojciech , Chlebicki Andrzej , Kaszczyszyn Mariusz
Published: October 2016

Today, fungicides are part of the basic tool kit for indoor surface maintenance. However, fungi develop resistance to fungicides, which consequently accelerates the evolution of virulence. Fungicides also carry the risk of adverse effects in humans. Galvanic microcells are a new tool for fungal control on indoor surfaces. We used two types of electrodes, Zn and Cu, with two potential anti-fungal mechanisms: the oligodynamic action of the metal ions themselves and the electricidal effect of the current between the electrodes. The size of the inhibition zone is related to the distance between the electrodes. We hypothesized that the unique geometric properties of the observed inhibition zone could be modelled using multi foci curve Cassini ovals. Moreover, the size of the inhibition zone possessed two maximum values, while the shape of the observed inhibition zones correlated with the shape of the electric field strength. The control activity of the galvanic microcells correlated with decreasing water content in building materials. Thus, this acute antifungal system works the best in damp building environments where the risk of fungal contamination is highest.
Cristae remodeling causes acidification detected by integrated graphene sensor during mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization
Authors: Pham Ted D. , Pham Phi Q. , Li Jinfeng , Letai Anthony G. , Wallace Douglas C. , Burke Peter J.
Published: October 2016

The intrinsic apoptotic pathway and the resultant mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) via BAK and BAX oligomerization, cytochrome c (cytc) release, and caspase activation are well studied, but their effect on cytosolic pH is poorly understood. Using isolated mitochondria, we show that MOMP results in acidification of the surrounding medium. BAK conformational changes associated with MOMP activate the OMA1 protease to cleave OPA1 resulting in remodeling of the cristae and release of the highly concentrated protons within the cristae invaginations. This was revealed by utilizing a nanomaterial graphene as an optically clear and ultrasensitive pH sensor that can measure ionic changes induced by tethered mitochondria. With this platform, we have found that activation of mitochondrial apoptosis is accompanied by a gradual drop in extra-mitochondrial pH and a decline in membrane potential, both of which can be rescued by adding exogenous cytc. These findings have importance for potential pharmacological manipulation of apoptosis, in the treatment of cancer.
Satellite NO2 retrievals suggest China has exceeded its NOx reduction goals from the twelfth Five-Year Plan
Authors: de Foy Benjamin , Lu Zifeng , Streets David G.
Published: October 2016

China’s twelfth Five-Year Plan included pollution control measures with a goal of reducing national emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) by 10% by 2015 compared with 2010. Multiple linear regression analysis was used on 11-year time series of all nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pixels from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) over 18 NO2 hotspots in China. The regression analysis accounted for variations in meteorology, pixel resolution, seasonal effects, weekday variability and year-to-year variability. The NO2 trends suggested that there was an increase in NO2 columns in most areas from 2005 to around 2011 which was followed by a strong decrease continuing through 2015. The satellite results were in good agreement with the annual official NOx emission inventories which were available up until 2014. This shows the value of evaluating trends in emission inventories using satellite retrievals. It further shows that recent control strategies were effective in reducing emissions and that recent economic transformations in China may be having an effect on NO2 columns. Satellite information for 2015 suggests that emissions have continued to decrease since the latest inventories available and have surpassed the goals of the twelfth Five-Year Plan.
Cortical neurons of bats respond best to echoes from nearest targets when listening to natural biosonar multi-echo streams
Authors: Beetz M. Jerome , Hechavarría Julio C. , Kössl Manfred
Published: October 2016

Bats orientate in darkness by listening to echoes from their biosonar calls, a behaviour known as echolocation. Recent studies showed that cortical neurons respond in a highly selective manner when stimulated with natural echolocation sequences that contain echoes from single targets. However, it remains unknown how cortical neurons process echolocation sequences containing echo information from multiple objects. In the present study, we used echolocation sequences containing echoes from three, two or one object separated in the space depth as stimuli to study neuronal activity in the bat auditory cortex. Neuronal activity was recorded with multi-electrode arrays placed in the dorsal auditory cortex, where neurons tuned to target-distance are found. Our results show that target-distance encoding neurons are mostly selective to echoes coming from the closest object, and that the representation of echo information from distant objects is selectively suppressed. This suppression extends over a large part of the dorsal auditory cortex and may override possible parallel processing of multiple objects. The presented data suggest that global cortical suppression might establish a cortical “default mode” that allows selectively focusing on close obstacle even without active attention from the animals.
Spin-Hall nano-oscillator with oblique magnetization and Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction as generator of skyrmions and nonreciprocal spin-waves
Authors: Giordano A. , Verba R. , Zivieri R. , Laudani A. , Puliafito V. , Gubbiotti G. , Tomasello R. , Siracusano G. , Azzerboni B. , Carpentieri M. , Slavin A. , Finocchio G.
Published: October 2016

Spin-Hall oscillators (SHO) are promising sources of spin-wave signals for magnonics applications, and can serve as building blocks for magnonic logic in ultralow power computation devices. Thin magnetic layers used as “free” layers in SHO are in contact with heavy metals having large spin-orbital interaction, and, therefore, could be subject to the spin-Hall effect (SHE) and the interfacial Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (i-DMI), which may lead to the nonreciprocity of the excited spin waves and other unusual effects. Here, we analytically and micromagnetically study magnetization dynamics excited in an SHO with oblique magnetization when the SHE and i-DMI act simultaneously. Our key results are: (i) excitation of nonreciprocal spin-waves propagating perpendicularly to the in-plane projection of the static magnetization; (ii) skyrmions generation by pure spin-current; (iii) excitation of a new spin-wave mode with a spiral spatial profile originating from a gyrotropic rotation of a dynamical skyrmion. These results demonstrate that SHOs can be used as generators of magnetic skyrmions and different types of propagating spin-waves for magnetic data storage and signal processing applications.
Differential expression of long non-coding RNAs in three genetic lines of rainbow trout in response to infection with Flavobacterium psychrophilum
Authors: Paneru Bam , Al-Tobasei Rafet , Palti Yniv , Wiens Gregory D. , Salem Mohamed
Published: October 2016

Bacterial cold-water disease caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum is one of the major causes of mortality of salmonids. Three genetic lines of rainbow trout designated as ARS-Fp-R (resistant), ARS-Fp-C (control) and ARS-Fp-S (susceptible) have significant differences in survival rate following F. psychrophilum infection. Previous study identified transcriptome differences of immune-relevant protein-coding genes at basal and post infection levels among these genetic lines. Using RNA-Seq approach, we quantified differentially expressed (DE) long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in response to F. psychrophilum challenge in these genetic lines. Pairwise comparison between genetic lines and different infection statuses identified 556 DE lncRNAs. A positive correlation existed between the number of the differentially regulated lncRNAs and that of the protein-coding genes. Several lncRNAs showed strong positive and negative expression correlation with their overlapped, neighboring and distant immune related protein-coding genes including complement components, cytokines, chemokines and several signaling molecules involved in immunity. The correlated expressions and genome-wide co-localization suggested that some lncRNAs may be involved in regulating immune-relevant protein-coding genes. This study provides the first evidence of lncRNA-mediated regulation of the anti-bacterial immune response in a commercially important aquaculture species and will likely help developing new genetic markers for rainbow trout disease resistance.
Recombinant antibodies for specific detection of clostridial [Fe-Fe] hydrogenases
Authors: Mangayil Rahul , Karp Matti , Lamminmäki Urpo , Santala Ville
Published: October 2016

Biological hydrogen production is based on activity of specific enzymes called hydrogenases. Hydrogenases are oxygen sensitive metalloenzymes containing Ni and/or Fe atoms at the active site, catalyzing reversible reduction of protons. Generally, [Fe-Fe] hydrogenases prefer proton reduction to molecular hydrogen, a potential energy carrier molecule that can be produced by bioprocesses in sustainable manner. Thus, monitoring tools have been developed to study the relationship between [Fe-Fe] hydrogenases and biohydrogen production in bioreactors at DNA and RNA levels. In the present study, novel molecular tools are introduced for quantitative monitoring of clostridial [Fe-Fe] hydrogenases at the protein level. Aerobic and anaerobic biopanning (for inactive and active [Fe-Fe] hydrogenase, respectively) of phage displayed single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibody libraries aided in isolating nine potential scFvs. The enriched antibodies demonstrated high specificity towards Clostridium spp. [Fe-Fe] hydrogenases allowing detection from pure and mixed cultures. Additionally, the antibodies showed different binding characteristics towards hydrogenase catalytic states, providing a possible means for functional detection of clostridial [Fe-Fe] hydrogenases. From hydrogenase-antibody interaction studies we observed that though antibody binding reduced the enzyme catalytic activity, it facilitated to retain hydrogen evolution from oxygen exposed hydrogenases.
Isolated exopolysaccharides from Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG alleviated adipogenesis mediated by TLR2 in mice
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhou Zhigang , Li Yu , Zhou Linkang , Ding Qianwen , Xu Li
Published: October 2016

The fibroblast cell line of 3T3-L1 was used as a cell model for screening and evaluating the feasibility of probiotic components in improving animal lipid metabolisms. The extracts from 12 Lactobacillus strains caused significantly reduced triacylglycerol (TAG) accumulation but with severe inflammation induction in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Interestingly, exopolysaccharides (EPS) from LGG (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) significantly decreased the TAG accumulation without any inflammation. The anti-obesity effect of EPS was confirmed in high-fat-diets feeding mice. Fat pads of mice injected with EPS (50 mg/kg) every two days for two weeks were significantly reduced with much smaller adipocytes, compared with the counterparts. The levels of TAG and cholesterol ester in liver, as well as serum TAG, were decreased in EPS injected mice. In addition, down-regulated inflammation was observed in adipose tissue and liver. Interestingly, the expression of TLR2 in adipose tissue and 3T3-L1 cells was significantly increased by EPS addition. Moreover, the reverse of TAG accumulation in TLR2 knockdown 3T3-L1 in the presence of EPS confirmed that the inhibition effect of EPS on adipogenesis was mediated by TLR2. EPS from LGG has the potential for therapeutic development to intervene lipid metabolic disorders in mammals.
Novel Functional Role of NK3R Expression in the Potentiating Effects on Somatolactin α Autoregulation in grass carp pituitary cells
Authors: Hu Guangfu , He Mulan , Wong Anderson On Lam
Published: October 2016

In our previous study, NKB/NK3R system has been shown to act at the pituitary level to up-regulate SLα synthesis and secretion in grass carp. However, whether NK3R expression can serve as a regulatory target at the pituitary level and contribute to NKB interactions with other SLα regulators is still unclear. In current study, using grass carp pituitary cells as a model, we have a novel finding that co-treatment of SLα/SLβ with carp TAC3 gene products, could induce a noticeable enhancement in SLα mRNA expression and these potentiating effects occurred with a parallel rise in NK3R transcript level after SLα/SLβ treatment. Interestingly, the stimulatory effects of SLα/SLβ on NK3R gene expression could be further potentiated by co-treatment with IGF-I/-II and simultaneous exposure of carp pituitary cells to SLα/SLβ and IGF-I/-II in the presence of TAC3 gene products was found to markedly elevated SLα mRNA expression (20 fold increase) and this synergistic stimulation was mediated by cAMP/PKA-, PLC/PKC- and Ca2+ -dependent cascades functionally coupled with NK3R activation. These findings suggest that local release of SLα via functional interactions with IGF-I/-II and TAC3/NK3R system may constitute a potent stimulatory signal for SLα gene expression in the carp pituitary via up-regulation of NK3R expression.
Highlights from Carbon Capture and Storage: Faraday Discussion, Sheffield, UK, July 2016
Authors: Hills Thomas
Published: October 2016

A summary of the three-day Faraday Discussion held in Sheffield on the topic of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS).
Ethylenediamine-modified amyloid fibrils of hen lysozyme with stronger adsorption capacity as rapid nano-biosorbents for removal of chromium(vi) ions
Authors: Leung Wai-Hong , So Pui-Kin , Wong Wai-Ting , Lo Wai-Hung , Chan Pak-Ho
Published: October 2016

The development of amine-fortified amyloid fibrils of hen lysozyme as biosorbents for Cr(vi) removal is reported. Through –COO−/ethylenediamine conjugation, the nanofibers have higher net positive charge, offering rapid and stronger charge-based absorption of Cr(vi).
An in situ porous cuprous oxide/nitrogen-rich graphitic carbon nanocomposite derived from a metal–organic framework for visible light driven hydrogen evolution
Authors: Jayaramulu Kolleboyina , Toyao Takashi , Ranc Vaclav , Rösler Christoph , Petr Martin , Zboril Radek , Horiuchi Yu , Matsuoka Masaya , Fischer Roland A.
Published: October 2016

We report a convenient strategy for synthesizing composite Cu2O nanoparticles on nitrogen rich porous carbon matrix for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
One-dimensional hybrid nanocomposite of high-density monodispersed Fe3O4 nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes for high-capacity storage of lithium and sodium
Authors: Wang Xiujuan , Liu Xiaojie , Wang Gang , Xia Yuan , Wang Hui
Published: October 2016

Filling CNT channels with monodispersed Fe3O4 nanoparticles yielded a nanocomposite showing high structural integrity for use in LIBs and SIBs.
Protein kinase C phosphorylates AMP-activated protein kinase α1 Ser487
Authors: Heathcote Helen R. , Mancini Sarah J. , Strembitska Anastasiya , Jamal Kunzah , Reihill James A. , Palmer Timothy M. , Gould Gwyn W. , Salt Ian P.
Published: October 2016

The key metabolic regulator, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), is reported to be down-regulated in metabolic disorders, but the mechanisms are poorly characterised. Recent studies have identified phosphorylation of the AMPKα1/α2 catalytic subunit isoforms at Ser487/491, respectively, as an inhibitory regulation mechanism. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulates AMPK and protein kinase B (Akt) in cultured human endothelial cells. As Akt has been demonstrated to be an AMPKα1 Ser487 kinase, the effect of VEGF on inhibitory AMPK phosphorylation in cultured primary human endothelial cells was examined. Stimulation of endothelial cells with VEGF rapidly increased AMPKα1 Ser487 phosphorylation in an Akt-independent manner, without altering AMPKα2 Ser491 phosphorylation. In contrast, VEGF-stimulated AMPKα1 Ser487 phosphorylation was sensitive to inhibitors of protein kinase C (PKC) and PKC activation using phorbol esters or overexpression of PKC-stimulated AMPKα1 Ser487 phosphorylation. Purified PKC and Akt both phosphorylated AMPKα1 Ser487 in vitro with similar efficiency. PKC activation was associated with reduced AMPK activity, as inhibition of PKC increased AMPK activity and phorbol esters inhibited AMPK, an effect lost in cells expressing mutant AMPKα1 Ser487Ala. Consistent with a pathophysiological role for this modification, AMPKα1 Ser487 phosphorylation was inversely correlated with insulin sensitivity in human muscle. These data indicate a novel regulatory role of PKC to inhibit AMPKα1 in human cells. As PKC activation is associated with insulin resistance and obesity, PKC may underlie the reduced AMPK activity reported in response to overnutrition in insulin-resistant metabolic and vascular tissues.
Adhesion patterning by a novel air-lock technique enables localization and in-situ real-time imaging of reprogramming events in one-to-one electrofused hybrids
Authors: Sakamoto S. , Okeyo K. O. , Yamazaki S. , Kurosawa O. , Oana H. , Kotera H. , Washizu M.
Published: October 2016

Although fusion of somatic cells with embryonic stem (ES) cells has been shown to induce reprogramming, single-cell level details of the transitory phenotypic changes that occur during fusion-based reprogramming are still lacking. Our group previously reported on the technique of one-to-one electrofusion via micro-slits in a microfluidic platform. In this study, we focused on developing a novel air-lock patterning technique for creating localized adhesion zones around the micro-slits for cell localization and real-time imaging of post fusion events with a single-cell resolution. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) were fused individually with mouse ES cells using a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) fusion chip consisting of two feeder channels with a separating wall containing an array of micro-slits (slit width ∼3 μm) at a regular spacing. ES cells and MEFs were introduced separately into the channels, juxtaposed on the micro-slits by dielectrophoresis and fused one-to-one by a pulse voltage. To localize fused cells for on-chip culture and time-lapse microscopy, we implemented a two-step approach of air-lock bovine serum albumin patterning and Matrigel coating to create localized adhesion areas around the micro-slits. As a result of time-lapse imaging, we could determine that cell division occurs within 24 h after fusion, much earlier than the 2–3 days reported by earlier studies. Remarkably, Oct4-GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein) was confirmed after 25 h of fusion and thereafter stably expressed by daughter cells of fused cells. Thus, integrated into our high-yield electrofusion platform, the technique of air-lock assisted adhesion patterning enables a single-cell level tracking of fused cells to highlight cell-level dynamics during fusion-based reprogramming.
Identifying the drivers of the pelagic ecosystem of an oligotrophic bight (KwaZulu–Natal, South Africa) using stable isotopes (δ13C, δ15N) and C : N ratio analysis
Authors: de Lecea Ander M. , Cooper Rachel , Smit Albertus J.
Published: October 2016

The international literature highlights the importance of understanding the role and fate of terrestrial organic matter (OM) in the marine system, yet little is known about this on the oligotrophic east coast of South Africa. Within the Bight, three important processes make OM biologically available: (1) a topographically induced upwelling cell (north), (2) a Cyclonic Eddy (south), and (3) riverine input. We hypothesise that: (i) these OM sources differ substantially in their isotope ratios, and (ii) zooplankton at the inshore region has an isotope signature linked to localised fluvial fluxes. Particulate OM samples were collected at five locations along the Bight and in three main estuaries during austral summer and winter seasons in 2010 and subjected to isotopic and mixing model analysis. Riverine input played an important role in this ecosystem inshore during the wet season. Only marine OM played a role as a biological driver offshore and at all sites during the dry season. Although there were indications that the upwelling cell did occur, it was not confirmed as active in either season. The current study provides valuable insights into the Bight's biological functioning and principle insights into the fate of terrestrial organic carbon on the east coast of southern Africa.
Barriers and enablers to malnutrition screening of community-living older adults: a content analysis of survey data by Australian dietitians
Authors: Craven Dana L. , Pelly Fiona E. , Isenring Elisabeth , Lovell Geoff P.
Published: October 2016

Many older adults living in their own homes are at nutrition risk which, left untreated, can lead to the state of malnutrition. To reduce the prevalence of malnutrition among community-living older adults (CLOAs), risk factors should be identified and addressed early via malnutrition screening. The aim of this study was to identify barriers and enablers to malnutrition screening of CLOAs from the perspective of dietitians. Ninety-two dietitians working for government, not-for-profit and private organisations in Australia provided written comments to open-ended survey questions. Textual data were analysed using content analysis, resulting in four key categories of organisational, staff, screening and CLOA factors. Insufficient time to screen and lack of knowledge by non-dietetic staff and CLOAs about malnutrition were identified as the strongest barriers. Organisational factors of screening policy and procedures and the provision of education and training emerged as the strongest enablers. The findings from this study can provide guidance to organisations and healthcare practitioners considering the implementation of routine malnutrition screening of CLOAs. Increased awareness about malnutrition and the associated outcomes may help to reduce nutrition risk among CLOAs.
Assessing Names? Effects of Name-Based Stereotypes on Teachers’ Evaluations of Pupils’ Texts
Authors: Aldrin Emilia
Published: October 2016

This study investigates the effects of name-based ethnic and social stereotypes on teachers’ grading of pupils’ texts in contemporary Sweden. A total of 113 practicing Swedish high school teachers assessed an authentic pupil text with one of three male names inserted, each intended to evoke a certain ethnic or social stereotype. Participants also explained their grading and answered questions regarding key features of the text. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted. The study concludes that name-based stereotypes generally have little influence on teachers’ assessment in contemporary Sweden. Results indicate a systematic but small and not statistically relevant name effect. A negative effect can be seen with regard to an ethnically marked name. This effect is shown when teachers evaluate language proficiency, but not for other features of the text. Regarding socioeconomically marked names there is little systematic effect. The study also suggests, however, that there may be compensatory mechanisms limiting the name effect.
Treatment response in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and a severely reduced diffusion capacity
Authors: van der Bruggen Cathelijne E. , Spruijt Onno A. , Nossent Esther J. , Trip Pia , Marcus J. Tim , de Man Frances S. , Jan Bogaard Harm , Noordegraaf Anton Vonk
Published: October 2016

Patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) and a reduced diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) have a worse survival compared to IPAH patients with a preserved DLCO. Whether this poor survival can be explained by unresponsiveness to pulmonary hypertension (PH)‐specific vasodilatory therapy is unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the hemodynamic and cardiac response to PH‐specific vasodilatory therapy in patients with IPAH and a reduced DLCO. Retrospectively, we studied treatment naïve hereditary and IPAH patients diagnosed between January 1990 and May 2015 at the VU University Medical Center. After exclusion of participants without available baseline DLCO measurement or right heart catheterization data and participants carrying a BMPR2 mutation, 166 participants could be included in this study. Subsequently, hemodynamics, cardiac function, exercise capacity, and oxygenation at baseline and after PH‐specific vasodilatory therapy were compared between IPAH patients with a preserved DLCO (DLCO >62%), IPAH patients with a moderately reduced DLCO (DLCO 43–62%), and IPAH patients with a severely reduced DLCO (DLCO <43%). Baseline hemodynamics and right ventricular function were not different between groups. Baseline oxygenation was worse in patients with IPAH and a severely reduced DLCO. Hemodynamics and cardiac function improved in all groups after PH‐specific vasodilatory therapy without worsening of oxygenation at rest or during exercise. Patients with IPAH and a severely reduced DLCO show a similar response to PH‐specific vasodilatory therapy in terms of hemodynamics, cardiac function, and exercise capacity as patients with IPAH and a moderately reduced or preserved DLCO.
From data rich to data-limited harvest strategies—does more data mean better management?
Authors: Dichmont Catherine M. , Fulton Elizabeth A. , Gorton Rebecca , Sporcic Miriana , Little L. Richard , Punt André E. , Dowling Natalie , Haddon Malcolm , Klaer Neil , Smith David C.
Published: October 2016

Harvest strategies (HSs) have been applied to many data-rich fisheries, and are now increasingly being applied in data-limited situations. These have been evaluated using simulation frameworks, including management strategy evaluation (MSE), but few studies have considered the full spectrum from data-rich to data-limited strategies, in the context of the risk-cost-catch trade-off. This involves evaluating whether the cost of implementing a HS, the risk to the resource and catch taken from the resource have been appropriately balanced, given the value of the resource. HSs implemented for Australian Commonwealth fisheries were placed in eight tiers, ranging from data-rich to data-limited, and their performance evaluated using an MSE based on a full end-to-end ecosystem model. Generally, the risk to the resource increased as fewer data were available, due to biases in the assessments and slow response times to unexpected declines in resource status. The most data-rich tiers maximize discounted catches and profits over a 45-year projection period. However, the opportunity costs response is variable, and shows that the benefit of short-term high catches have to be compensated by resource recovery in the long term. On average, more data leads to improved management in terms of risk of being overfished and not reaching a target, but this requires lower initial catches to recover the resources and lower short-term discounted profits.
Bridging the gap between fisheries science and society: exploring fisheries science as a social activity
Authors: Bailey Jennifer L. , Liu Yajie , Davidsen Jan Grimsrud
Published: October 2016

Much has been written about the poor relations between fisheries scientists and lay people, but the experience of two field biologists suggests that good relations can exist and have a positive impact on the exchange of knowledge across the “science”—“society” divide. This article is a first attempt to map the contact points between fisheries scientists and lay people and to explore the spin-offs these can have. It presents the results of two surveys conducted with participants at the November 2015 MYFISH/ICES Symposium on “Targets and limits for long term fisheries management”: a real-time Kahoot survey of the audience and a longer, on-line survey some participants filled out following the symposium session. The survey results generally support the supposition that fisheries scientist-society interactions are extremely varied and that much in the way of information exchange and mutual learning can occur. However they also show that trust issues remain in the fisheries management community, but not just between scientists and lay people: fisheries managers and environmental non-governmental organizations may be less trusted by scientists than are lay people. The study concludes by discussing how future studies should be designed and focused and with an invitation for comments from the ICES community.
Exodus as a Theme
Authors: Russell Stephen C.
Published: October 2016

According to the Hebrew Bible’s exodus tradition, the Israelites went free from Egyptian slavery, witnessed the destruction of the Egyptians in a final confrontation at the Reed Sea, and journeyed from Egypt to the land promised to their ancestors. The story is told most expansively in the book of Exodus, which also commands the Israelites to tell the story to one another (Exodus 13:8). Outside of the narrative itself, the Hebrew Bible refers to the exodus well over a hundred times, most often using short formulae (e.g., 1 Kings 12:28). The exodus is one of the Bible’s best-known and most-loved stories. In this brief bibliographic survey, I will point to some of the more important and accessible resources for understanding how the themes of the exodus tradition relate to Levantine history, how they drew on ancient Near Eastern literary motifs and forms, how they developed in the Iron Age in ancient Israel and Judah, how they were expressed in the book of Exodus, in what contexts they were invoked in other biblical literature, and how they were received in post-biblical literature.