bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching the Key Traits of Expository Nonfiction With Children's Books
Authors: Stewart Melissa , Young Terrell A.
Published: October 2018

To craft engaging nonfiction prose, young writers should focus on a specific idea or concept of interest and use acclaimed children's books as mentor texts to help them understand options for developing their ideas. In this article, the authors provide examples of high‐quality children's nonfiction for exploring various formats and text structures and for developing effective expressive voice and rich language—all craft techniques associated with excellent expository informational writing and consistent with the Common Core State Standards. Specific discussion questions and activities are included.
Adding pseudo-observables to the four-lepton experimentalist’s toolbox
Authors: Gainer James S. , González-Alonso Martín , Greljo Admir , Isaković Senad , Isidori Gino , Korytov Andrey , Lykken Joseph , Marzocca David , Matchev Konstantin T. , Milenović Predrag , Mitselmakher Guenakh , Mrenna Stephen , Park Myeonghun , Rinkevicius Aurelijus , Selimović Nudžeim
Published: October 2018

Abstract

The “golden” channel, in which the newly-discovered Higgs boson decays to four leptons by means of intermediate vector bosons, is important for determining the properties of the Higgs boson and for searching for subtle new physics effects. Different approaches exist for parametrizing the relevant Higgs couplings in this channel; here we relate the use of pseudo-observables to methods based on specifying the most general amplitude or Lagrangian terms for the HVV interactions. We also provide projections for sensitivity in this channel in several novel scenarios, illustrating the use of pseudo-observables, and analyze the role of kinematic distributions and (ratios of) rates in such H → 4ℓ studies.
Jet charge and machine learning
Authors: Fraser Katherine , Schwartz Matthew D.
Published: October 2018

Abstract

Modern machine learning techniques, such as convolutional, recurrent and recursive neural networks, have shown promise for jet substructure at the Large Hadron Collider. For example, they have demonstrated effectiveness at boosted top or W boson identification or for quark/gluon discrimination. We explore these methods for the purpose of classifying jets according to their electric charge. We find that both neural networks that incorporate distance within the jet as an input and boosted decision trees including radial distance information can provide significant improvement in jet charge extraction over current methods. Specifically, convolutional, recurrent, and recursive networks can provide the largest improvement over traditional methods, in part by effectively utilizing distance within the jet or clustering history. The advantages of using a fixed-size input representation (as with the CNN) or a small input representation (as with the RNN) suggest that both convolutional and recurrent networks will be essential to the future of modern machine learning at colliders.
Confabulating as Unreliable Imagining: In Defence of the Simulationist Account of Unsuccessful Remembering
Authors: Michaelian Kourken
Published: October 2018

This paper responds to Bernecker’s (Front Psychol 8:1207, 2017) attack on Michaelian’s (Front Psychol 7:1857, 2016a) simulationist account of confabulation, as well as his defence of the causalist account of confabulation (Robins, Philos Psychol 29(3):432–447, 2016a) against Michaelian’s attack on it. The paper first argues that the simulationist account survives Bernecker’s attack, which takes the form of arguments from the possibility of unjustified memory and justified confabulation, unscathed. It then concedes that Bernecker’s defence of the causalist account against Michaelian’s attack, which takes the form of arguments from the possibility of veridical confabulation and falsidical relearning, is partly successful. This concession points the way, however, to a revised simulationist account that highlights the role played by failures of metacognitive monitoring in confabulation and that provides a means of distinguishing between “epistemically innocent” (Bortolotti, Conscious Cogn 33:490–499, 2015) and “epistemically culpable” memory errors. Finally, the paper responds to discussions by Robins (Synthese 1–17, 2018) and Bernecker (Front Psychol 8:1207, 2017) of the role played by the concept of reliability in Michaelian’s approach, offering further considerations in support of simulationism.
A randomized controlled trial of combined executive function and memory training on the cognitive and noncognitive function of individuals with mild cognitive impairment: Study rationale and protocol design
Authors: Zhang Haifeng , Wang Jing , Sun Tingting , Wang Zhijiang , Lyu Xiaozhen , Yu Xin , Wang Huali
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Cognitive training has attracted considerable attention as a safe, economical, and scalable nonpharmacologic intervention in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, no study has yet placed sufficient emphasis on the training of executive function. The present study aimed to evaluate whether memory training combined with executive training could lead to improved cognitive and noncognitive performance in patients with MCI. Furthermore, we will explore the neural correlates underlying the changed performances.

Methods

The proposed study is a randomized controlled trial that will include 120 patients with MCI. The eligible patients will be randomized to either an intervention group or a waitlist control group. The intervention group will receive computerized combined training (executive function and memory) for 96 sessions for more than 24 weeks. The control group will receive no intervention during the research period. Behavior data collection and a magnetic resonance imaging/electroencephalogram/near‐infrared spectroscopy scan will be performed at baseline and after 24 weeks of intervention.

Results

The study is currently ongoing. Recruitment began in July 2017 and will conclude in December 2018.

Discussion

If combined training results in positive changes to cognitive function and noncognitive function in patients with MCI, this might represent a new approach to delay the cognitive decline or even provide a potential method for dementia prevention. Furthermore, the evaluation of any training‐related structural changes or functional changes will help to reveal the mechanisms underlying the combined cognitive training.

Trial registration

This study was registered with Clinicaltrials.gov (Identifier: NCT03232047, August 18, 2017).
Online study partner‐reported cognitive decline in the Brain Health Registry
Authors: Nosheny Rachel L. , Camacho Monica R. , Insel Philip S. , Flenniken Derek , Fockler Juliet , Truran Diana , Finley Shannon , Ulbricht Aaron , Maruff Paul , Yaffe Kristine , Mackin R. Scott , Weiner Michael W. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Methods for efficiently identifying cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are a critical unmet need. The goal of this work was to validate novel online study partner (SP)‐reported outcomes to identify cognitive decline in older adults.

Methods

In older adults enrolled in the Brain Health Registry, we analyzed associations between SP‐reported cognitive decline, measured by the Everyday Cognition Scale, and either (1) participant cognition, assessed by Cogstate Brief Battery or (2) participant‐reported diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or AD.

Results

We found strong associations between SP‐reported Everyday Cognition Scale and both Cogstate scores and participant diagnosis. The associations were cognitive domain specific, dependant on participant diagnosis, and were stronger in spouse dyads and those who knew each other longer.

Discussion

Collecting SP‐reported data online from a large cohort is feasible. Results support the construct validity of our approach, which has the potential to facilitate clinical AD and aging research.
Contingency Medical Countermeasures for Mass Nerve-Agent Exposure: Use of Pharmaceutical Alternatives to Community Stockpiled Antidotes
Authors: Schwartz Michael D. , Sutter Mark E. , Eisnor Derek , Kirk Mark A.
Published: October 2018

Having sufficient medical countermeasures (MCMs) available for the treatment of acetylcholinesterase-inhibiting nerve agent poisoned patients following a mass chemical exposure is a challenge for communities. After stockpiles containing auto-injectors are exhausted, communities need to be aware of alternative pharmaceutical options. The Department of Homeland Security Chemical Defense Program convened a federal interagency working group consisting of first responders, clinicians, and experts from the fields of medical toxicology, pharmacology, and emergency management. A literature review of pharmaceutical alternatives for treating nerve agent toxicity was performed. Pharmaceuticals that met the federal Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise Product Specific Requirements were prioritized. Food and Drug Administration approval for one indication, market availability, and alignment to government procurement strategy were considered. This article summarizes the literature on comparative pharmacokinetics and efficacy against nerve agents (where available) of Food and Drug Administration approved drugs with muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist and gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor agonist effects. This work is intended to serve as a resource of pharmaceutical options that may be available to communities (ie, emergency managers, planners, clinicians, and poison centers) when faced with a mass human exposure to a nerve agent and inadequate supplies of MCMs. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2019;13:605-612)
Interfacial dynamics of a confined liquid–vapour bilayer undergoing evaporation
Authors: Pillai Dipin S. , Narayanan R.
Published: October 2018

The dynamics of an interface between a thin liquid–vapour bilayer undergoing evaporation is studied. Both phases are considered to be hydrodynamically and thermally active, with momentum and thermal inertia taken into account. A reduced-order model based on the weighted-residual integral boundary layer method is used to investigate the dynamical behaviour for two cases,viz., phase change in the absence of gravity and then phase change in the presence of gravity. In the first case, it is shown that evaporative instability may cause rupture of either liquid or vapour layer depending on system parameters. Close to interfacial rupture, the disjoining pressure due to intermolecular forces results in the formation of drops (bubbles) separated by a thin film for low liquid (vapour) hold-up. Momentum inertia is shown to have a stabilizing effect, while thermal inertia has a destabilizing effect. In the second case, evaporative suppression of Rayleigh–Taylor (R–T) instability shows emergence of up to two neutral wavenumbers. Weak nonlinear analysis of these neutral wavenumbers suggests that the instability may be either supercritical or subcritical depending on the rate of evaporation. At high rates of evaporation, both neutral wavenumbers are supercritical and computations on the interface evolution lead to nonlinear saturated steady states. Momentum inertia slows down the rate of interface deformation and results in an oscillatory approach to saturation. Thermal inertia results in larger interface deformation and the saturated steady state is shifted closer to the wall. At very low evaporation rates, only one neutral wavenumber of subcritical nature exists. The nonlinear evolution of the interface in this case is then similar to pure R–T instability, exhibiting spontaneous lateral sliding as it approaches the wall.
Circulation conservation and vortex breakup in magnetohydrodynamics at low magnetic Prandtl number
Authors: Dritschel D. G. , Diamond P. H. , Tobias S. M.
Published: October 2018

In this paper we examine the role of weak magnetic fields in breaking Kelvin’s circulation theorem and in vortex breakup in two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamics for the physically important case of a fluid with low magnetic Prandtl number (low 

$Pm$

). We consider three canonical inviscid solutions for the purely hydrodynamical problem, namely a Gaussian vortex, a circular vortex patch and an elliptical vortex patch. We examine how magnetic fields lead to an initial loss of circulation

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E4}$

and attempt to derive scaling laws for the loss of circulation as a function of field strength and diffusion as measured by two non-dimensional parameters. We show that for all cases the loss of circulation depends on the integrated effects of the Lorentz force, with the patch cases leading to significantly greater circulation loss. For the case of the elliptical vortex, the loss of circulation depends on the total area swept out by the rotating vortex, and so this leads to more efficient circulation loss than for a circular vortex.
Pleistocene amphibians and squamates from the Upper Jordan Rift Valley, Gesher Benot Ya’aqov and Nahal Mahanayeem Outlet (MIS 20–18 and MIS 4/3)
Authors: Biton Rebecca , Bailon Salvador , Goren-Inbar Naama , Sharon Gonen , Rabinovich Rivka
Published: October 2018

The Acheulian site of Gesher Benot Ya’aqov (GBY) and the Mousterian site of Nahal Mahanayeem Outlet (NMO) are open-air sites situated on the bank of the Upper Jordan River at its southern estuary in the Hula Valley, Israel. Both sites were deposited on the shore of a paleo-Lake Hula, a shallow body of water that persisted throughout a considerable part of the Pleistocene as a fresh-water lake. Most of the amphibian and squamate taxa recovered are aquatic species related to the natural biota of the Hula Valley, alongside some terrestrial species. Twelve amphibian and squamate taxa were recovered at each site. Most of the species recovered from the archaeological contexts do not differ from extant Hula Valley amphibians and squamates, with the exception of a varanid (Varanussp.) recovered at GBY and the possible presence of the eastern fourlined ratsnake (cf.Elaphe sauromates). The snake’s presence could indicate slightly cooler conditions during human occupation at NMO. A noteworthy continuity in species presence is observed throughout the many archaeological horizons as well as in comparison to the current Hula basin fauna. This suggests a surprising similarity in environmental conditions over a significant portion of the Quaternary in this region.
TWELFTH-CENTURY INTERIOR DECORATION: A DISCOVERY AT OAKHAM CASTLE, RUTLAND
Authors: Hill Nick , Kirkham Andrea
Published: October 2018

A decorative scheme applied to the internal gable wall at the ‘high’ end of the hall of Oakham Castle, in Rutland, has been the subject of recent investigation, with the removal of later over-painting. Analysis indicates that the scheme is original Romanesque work dating from the 1180s, an exceptional survival for a secular building. Very unusually, the decoration was produced with self-coloured plaster rather than paint. The scheme, of which quite extensive sections survive, consisted of a large semi-circular arch with voussoirs (similar to the hall’s main stone arcade), and a lattice pattern simulating opus reticulatum in the tympanum below. The pattern was created by laying white lime strips over a buff-coloured plaster background. The only comparable example yet identified – at Chepstow Castle, in Monmouthshire – is on a smaller scale and a century earlier. The scheme seems to have survived because the interior of the hall has been little disturbed, with a tradition since the fifteenth century of displaying outsized horseshoes on the walls.
Executive Creep in Canadian Provincial Legislatures
Authors: Thomas Paul E.J. , Lewis J.P.
Published: October 2018

Studies of parliamentary systems contend that backbench legislators are increasingly marginalized, with power being centralized in the executive. However, such research typically focuses on national legislatures, ignoring subnational jurisdictions. We extend this literature by exploring the process of “executive creep” in Canada's provinces; namely the tendency of executives to erode legislative independence by appointing backbenchers to quasi-executive positions or cabinet committees. We examine executive creep in all provinces since 1968, finding a clear trend towards the increased incorporation of backbenchers into the work of the executive. Moreover, these changes serve to strengthen the power of first ministers relative to their cabinets.
Phenological and aerobiological study of vineyards in the Montilla-Moriles PDO area, Cordoba, southern Spain
Authors: Martínez-Bracero M. , Alcázar P. , Velasco-Jiménez M. J. , Calderón-Ezquerro C. , Galán C.
Published: October 2018

Phenological and aerobiological research into major crops is of great value in adapting traditional processes to the new conditions prompted by global climate change. Data on flowering phenology and airborne pollen have also proved useful for harvest forecasting purposes. The current paper reports on an agrometeorological study carried out in the Montilla-Moriles Protected Designation of Origin area (Córdoba, southern Spain) in 2015 and 2016. The study focused on four grape cultivars produced at seven local vineyards (Pedro Ximénez, the most widely grown in the area; Verdejo; Muscat blanc à petits grains; and Chardonnay, which has been recently introduced). Phenological observations were performed on a weekly basis using the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie scale adapted for grapevine. Airborne pollen concentrations were monitored using one Hirst-type volumetric sampler and seven passive samplers. Airborne pollen was mainly detected in vineyards during inflorescence emergence and flowering. Year-on-year differences in climatic conditions led to differences in airborne pollen levels. The main variables affecting pollen concentrations were dew point and temperature. The life-cycles recorded here were shorter than in temperate climates but longer than in tropical climates. In terms of flowering period, the cultivars studied here were classed as ‘early cultivars’. Data obtained using local passive samplers located directly in the vineyard confirmed that the airborne pollen concentrations recorded by the volumetric sampler were representative of the study area.
Bilibid and beyond: Race, body size, and the native in early American colonial Philippines
Authors: Gealogo Francis A.
Published: October 2018

The United States’ occupation of the Philippines began with proclamations of a new era of development and the prospect of local political representation. In coming to grips with what they saw as America's civilising mission, colonial scholars and officials sought information about the peoples of the Philippines by conducting a census and various population studies, using an array of methodologies drawn from criminology and physical anthropology. This article traces and critiques representations of the Philippine population in the 1903 Philippine Census as well as in several related studies published in the early American period, which served to reduce the Filipinos to a state of ‘otherness’ which served to justify colonial projects. Several of these racialised studies used the inmates of Bilibid Prison, both alive and dead, as experimental and documentary subjects to create a record of Filipino ‘sample types’ for various administrative and other purposes, such as the exhibition at the St Louis World's Fair of 1904. Bilibid prisoners’ body size, brain weight, skin colour, facial features and other physical attributes were selectively correlated with other colonial constructions of Filipino individuals and groups, such as ‘wildness’ and political maturity.
Changing the Irish dietary guidelines to incorporate the principles of the Mediterranean diet: proposing the MedÉire diet
Authors: Tierney Audrey C , Zabetakis Ioannis
Published: October 2018

Objective

In Ireland, the major causes of death are CVD. The current Irish healthy eating guidelines and food pyramid primarily advocate a low-fat diet. However, there is overwhelming scientific evidence for the benefits of a Mediterranean diet (Med Diet) in the prevention and management of metabolic disease as well as improving overall health and well-being. In the current commentary, the rationale to incorporate the principles of the Med Diet into the Irish dietary guidelines is presented.

Design

Perspectives of authors.

Setting

Local and international.

Subjects

Populations in Europe, North America and Australia.

Results

Adopting components of the Med Diet presents a more evidence-based approach to updating the current Irish dietary guidelines. Experience and lessons from other non-Mediterranean countries show that it could be a feasible and effective solution to improving the dietary habits of the Irish population to prevent and mange chronic diseases.

Conclusions

Policies and programmes to address perceived barriers to the Med Diet’s implementation and uptake in non-Mediterranean countries should be promoted.
Applying international guidelines for calcium supplementation to prevent pre-eclampsia: simulation of recommended dosages suggests risk of excess intake in Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Biniyam , Sinclair Kate , Wuehler Sara E , Moges Tibebu , De-Regil Luz Maria , Dickin Katherine L
Published: October 2018

Objective

To simulate impact of Ca supplementation on estimated total Ca intakes among women in a population with low dietary Ca intakes, using WHO recommendations: 1·5–2·0 g elemental Ca/d during pregnancy to prevent pre-eclampsia.

Design

Single cross-sectional 24 h dietary recall data were adjusted using IMAPP software to simulate proportions of women who would meet or exceed the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) and Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) assuming full or partial adherence to WHO guidelines.

Setting

Nationally and regionally representative data, Ethiopia’s ‘lean’ season 2011.

Subjects

Women 15–45 years (n 7908, of whom 492 pregnant).

Results

National mean usual Ca intake was 501 (sd 244) mg/d. Approximately 89, 91 and 96 % of all women, pregnant women and 15–18 years, respectively, had dietary Ca intakes below the EAR. Simulating 100 % adherence to 1·0, 1·5 and 2·0 g/d estimated nearly all women (>99 %) would meet the EAR, regardless of dosage. Nationally, supplementation with 1·5 and 2·0 g/d would result in intake exceeding the UL in 3·7 and 43·2 % of women, respectively, while at 1·0 g/d those exceeding the UL would be <1 % (0·74 %) except in one region (4·95 %).

Conclusions

Most Ethiopian women consume insufficient Ca, increasing risk of pre-eclampsia. Providing Ca supplements of 1·5–2·0 g/d could result in high proportions of women exceeding the UL, while universal consumption of 1·0 g/d would meet requirements with minimal risk of excess. Appropriately tested screening tools could identify and reduce risk to high Ca consumers. Research on minimum effective Ca supplementation to prevent pre-eclampsia is also needed to determine whether lower doses could be recommended.
Maternal dietary patterns and risk of adverse pregnancy (hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus) and birth (preterm birth and low birth weight) outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kibret Kelemu Tilahun , Chojenta Catherine , Gresham Ellie , Tegegne Teketo K , Loxton Deborah
Published: October 2018

Objective

Epidemiological studies have indicated that dietary patterns during pregnancy are associated with adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW). However, the results of these studies are varied and inconsistent. The present study aimed to assess the association between dietary patterns and the risk of adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis. Seven databases were searched for articles. Two reviewers performed the study selection and data extraction. A random-effects model was used to estimate pooled effect sizes of eligible studies.

Setting

Studies conducted all over the world were incorporated.

Subjects

The review focused on pregnant women.

Results

A total of twenty-one studies were identified. Adherence to a healthy dietary pattern (intake of vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains) was significantly associated with lower odds (OR; 95 % CI) of pre-eclampsia (0·78; 0·70, 0·86; I2=39·0 %, P=0·178), GDM (0·78; 0·56, 0·99; I2=68·6 %, P=0·013) and PTB (0·75; 0·57, 0·93; I2=89·6 %, P=0·0001).

Conclusions

Our review suggests that dietary patterns with a higher intake of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and fish are associated with a decreased likelihood of adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. Further research should be conducted in low-income countries to understand the impact of limited resources on dietary intake and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes.
European Union – Countervailing Measures on Certain Polyethylene Terephthalate from Pakistan (EU–PET (Pakistan)), DS486
Authors: Alcover Maria
Published: October 2018

This dispute concerns countervailing measures imposed by the European Union (EU) on imports of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) from Pakistan. Pakistan has a ‘duty drawback scheme’ by which it remits import duties on input materials consumed in the production of a product that is subsequently exported. The European Commission considered that all duties remitted to a Pakistani PET producer and exporter named Novatex constituted a countervailable subsidy contingent upon export performance. Also, Pakistan has a programme through which it provides government-financed loans to certain qualifying companies. Pre-approved banks are prohibited from charging interest rates above a specified level. The European Commission considered that the loan conferred to Novatex under this programme constituted a countervailable subsidy.
Russia – Anti-Dumping Duties on Light Commercial Vehicles from Germany (Russia–Commercial Vehicles) (DS479)
Authors: Kugler Kholofelo
Published: October 2018

The dispute relates to anti-dumping duties imposed by Russia on certain light commercial vehicles (LCVs) from Germany and Italy. These anti-dumping duties were applied pursuant to Decision No. 113 of 14 May 2013 of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC), including the relevant annexes, notices, and reports of the Department for Internal Market Defence of the EEC (DIMD).
A NOTE ON THE EXISTENCE OF RATIFIABLE ACTS
Authors: HALPERN JOSEPH Y.
Published: October 2018

Sufficient conditions are given under which ratifiable acts exist.
Zhangwuia: an enigmatic organ with a bennettitalean appearance and enclosed ovules
Authors: Liu Zhong-Jian , Hou Ye-Mao , Wang Xin
Published: October 2018

The feature distinguishing typical angiosperms from gymnosperms is that their ovules are enclosed before pollination. Bennettitales were formerly related to angiosperms because of the flower-like organisation of the former's reproductive organs. There is little information on how the naked ovules of Bennettitales became enclosed in angiosperms because fossil evidence for such a transition, if it exists, has not been described. Here, we report a reproductive organ,Zhangwuiagen. nov., from the Middle Jurassic of Inner Mongolia, China. Like many Bennettitales, the arrangement of the foliar parts around the female part inZhangwuiademonstrates a resemblance to typical angiosperm flowers. It is noteworthy that the ovule is secluded from the exterior space inZhangwuia, therefore implying the existence of angio-ovuly. Although Bennettitales have been related to angiosperms for more than a hundred years, their way of ovule-enclosing was not previously revealed. The discovery ofZhangwuiaprompts a rethinking of the relationship between Bennettitales and angiosperms, as well as of the origin of angiosperms.
Fog and Dew as Potable Water Resources: Maximizing Harvesting Potential and Water Quality Concerns
Authors: Kaseke Kudzai F. , Wang Lixin
Published: October 2018

Fog and dew are often viewed as economic nuisances causing significant financial losses in the transportation industry and agricultural sector. However, they are also critical components of the hydrological cycle, especially in water scarce environments. Water scarcity is one of the major threats to mankind in the 21st century, and this can be due to development pressures, pollution, and/or expanding populations. In water scarce environments, fog and dew represent potentially exploitable ancillary water resources that could ameliorate the water scarce situation, if efficiently harvested. However, two important issues are often overlooked in relation to fog and dew harvesting and potability. First, current fog and dew harvesting technologies are low yielding with great potential for improvements. Second and more importantly, the potability of these water resources is often based on simple analyses that often omit trace metal and biological analyses. The few studies that report trace metal or biological measurements suggest elevated trace metal concentrations or biological contamination that could be of concern to public health. We discuss the potential for fog and dew harvesting technologies and the need for trace metal and biological analyses of these waters before use.
Local Coastal Water Masses Control Heat Levels in a West Greenland Tidewater Outlet Glacier Fjord
Authors: Mortensen J. , Rysgaard S. , Arendt K. E. , Juul‐Pedersen T. , Søgaard D. H. , Bendtsen J. , Meire L.
Published: October 2018

Fjords form the gateway between the open ocean and the Greenland Ice Sheet (GIS) and consequently play a crucial role for the stability of the Ice Sheet. Hydrographic observations, especially with seasonal resolution, from these fjords are limited making it difficult to assess linkages between the fjord, coastal water masses, and freshwater discharge from GIS. Here we present a decade‐long monthly hydrographic time series from a southwest Greenland fjord in direct contact with GIS. Our observations reveal significant temporal and spatial water mass variations related to coastal, glacial, and atmospheric dynamics. During winter, the fjord circulation is dominated by seasonal dense coastal inflows and the timing of these inflows determines intermediate and deepwater temperatures. During summer, runoff from GIS leads to a pronounced freshening of the fjord. In general, the fjord's seasonal circulation system damps the seasonal variation in temperature in the fjord. This leads to a seasonal temperature range in the intermediate layer in the inner part of the fjord that is half the observed range at the fjord entrance. Changes in mean water temperatures in the intermediate layer seem predominantly linked to local coastal water masses, where cold winter/warm summer events decrease/increase the mean water temperatures. Consequently, these events play an important role in heat transport toward glacier termini.
Efficient Prediction of Multidomain Flow and Transport in Hierarchically Structured Porous Media
Authors: Ritschel Thomas , Schlüter Steffen , Köhne John Maximilian , Vogel Hans‐Jörg , Totsche Kai Uwe
Published: October 2018

Structural hierarchy is a fundamental characteristic of natural porous media. Yet it provokes one of the grand challenges for the modeling of fluid flow and transport since pore‐scale structures and continuum‐scale domains often coincide independent of the observation scale. Common approaches to represent structural hierarchy build, for example, on a multidomain continuum for transport or on the coupling of the Stokes equations with Darcy's law for fluid flow. These approaches, however, are computationally expensive or introduce empirical parameters that are difficult to derive with independent observations. We present an efficient model for fluid flow based on Darcy's law and the law of Hagen‐Poiseuille that is parameterized based on the explicit pore space morphology obtained, for example, by X‐ray μ‐CT and inherently permits the coupling of pore‐scale and continuum‐scale domain. We used the resulting flow field to predict the transport of solutes via particle tracking across the different domains. Compared to experimental breakthrough data from laboratory‐scale columns with hierarchically structured porosity built from solid glass beads and microporous glass pellets, an excellent agreement was achieved without any calibration. Furthermore, we present different test scenarios to compare the flow fields resulting from the Stokes‐Brinkman equations and our approach to comprehensively illustrate its advantages and limitations. In this way, we could show a striking efficiency and accuracy of our approach that qualifies as general alternative for the modeling of fluid flow and transport in hierarchical porous media, for example, fractured rock or karstic aquifers.
Household Water Use and Conservation Behavior: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Addo Isaac B. , Thoms Martin C. , Parsons Melissa
Published: October 2018

Understanding the psychological‐social drivers of water‐use behavior in households is essential for enhancing the effectiveness of water‐conservation strategies and subsequent environmental benefits. This study used the Behaviour Change Wheel framework to review associations between capability, opportunity, and motivation (COM) dimensions and household water‐use behaviors. A meta‐analysis of 88 correlation coefficients from a combined sample of 15,656 participants showed positive relationships between water‐use behavior and COM dimensions. These three dimensions were statistically significant in predicting household water‐use behavior, with opportunity being the most moderate predictor of water‐conservation behavior (r = 0.25, p < 0.001), followed by motivation (r = 0.24, p < 0.001) and then capability (r = 0.18, p < 0.001). Collectively, these dimensions explained 37% of the variance in household water‐conservation behavior. Correlation coefficients also diverged as a function of COM dimension subtypes (psychological, physical, social, reflective, and automatic) and study location, study design, and the gender of participants. Overall, the results are consistent with the Behaviour Change Wheel assertion that the integrative components of behavior are important sources of psychological‐social drivers of water‐use behavior. COM dimensions are useful for the identification of behaviors that influence water‐use and how these may diverge depending on the water‐use character of the region and environment.
NanoSIMS single cell analyses reveal the contrasting nitrogen sources for small phytoplankton
Authors: Berthelot Hugo , Duhamel Solange , L’Helguen Stéphane , Maguer Jean-Francois , Wang Seaver , Cetinić Ivona , Cassar Nicolas
Published: October 2018

Nitrogen (N) is a limiting nutrient in vast regions of the world’s oceans, yet the sources of N available to various phytoplankton groups remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated inorganic carbon (C) fixation rates and nitrate (NO3−), ammonium (NH4+) and urea uptake rates at the single cell level in photosynthetic pico-eukaryotes (PPE) and the cyanobacteria Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus. To that end, we used dual 15N and 13C-labeled incubation assays coupled to flow cytometry cell sorting and nanoSIMS analysis on samples collected in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre (NPSG) and in the California Current System (CCS). Based on these analyses, we found that photosynthetic growth rates (based on C fixation) of PPE were higher in the CCS than in the NSPG, while the opposite was observed for Prochlorococcus. Reduced forms of N (NH4+ and urea) accounted for the majority of N acquisition for all the groups studied. NO3− represented a reduced fraction of total N uptake in all groups but was higher in PPE (17.4 ± 11.2% on average) than in Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus (4.5 ± 6.5 and 2.9 ± 2.1% on average, respectively). This may in part explain the contrasting biogeography of these picoplankton groups. Moreover, single cell analyses reveal that cell-to-cell heterogeneity within picoplankton groups was significantly greater for NO3− uptake than for C fixation and NH4+ uptake. We hypothesize that cellular heterogeneity in NO3− uptake within groups facilitates adaptation to the fluctuating availability of NO3− in the environment.
Sensitivity of CD3/CD28-stimulated versus non-stimulated lymphocytes to ionizing radiation and genotoxic anticancer drugs: key role of ATM in the differential radiation response
Authors: Heylmann Daniel , Badura Jennifer , Becker Huong , Fahrer Jörg , Kaina Bernd
Published: October 2018

Activation of T cells, a major fraction of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLCS), is essential for the immune response. Genotoxic stress resulting from ionizing radiation (IR) and chemical agents, including anticancer drugs, has serious impact on T cells and, therefore, on the immune status. Here we compared the sensitivity of non-stimulated (non-proliferating) vs. CD3/CD28-stimulated (proliferating) PBLC to IR. PBLCs were highly sensitive to IR and, surprisingly, stimulation to proliferation resulted in resistance to IR. Radioprotection following CD3/CD28 activation was observed in different T-cell subsets, whereas stimulated CD34+ progenitor cells did not become resistant to IR. Following stimulation, PBLCs showed no significant differences in the repair of IR-induced DNA damage compared with unstimulated cells. Interestingly, ATM is expressed at high level in resting PBLCs and CD3/CD28 stimulation leads to transcriptional downregulation and reduced ATM phosphorylation following IR, indicating ATM to be key regulator of the high radiosensitivity of resting PBLCs. In line with this, pharmacological inhibition of ATM caused radioresistance of unstimulated, but not stimulated, PBLCs. Radioprotection was also achieved by inhibition of MRE11 and CHK1/CHK2, supporting the notion that downregulation of the MRN-ATM-CHK pathway following CD3/CD28 activation results in radioprotection of proliferating PBLCs. Interestingly, the crosslinking anticancer drug mafosfamide induced, like IR, more death in unstimulated than in stimulated PBLCs. In contrast, the bacterial toxin CDT, damaging DNA through inherent DNase activity, and the DNA methylating anticancer drug temozolomide induced more death in CD3/CD28-stimulated than in unstimulated PBLCs. Thus, the sensitivity of stimulated vs. non-stimulated lymphocytes to genotoxins strongly depends on the kind of DNA damage induced. This is the first study in which the killing response of non-proliferating vs. proliferating T cells was comparatively determined. The data provide insights on how immunotherapeutic strategies resting on T-cell activation can be impacted by differential cytotoxic effects resulting from radiation and chemotherapy.
The thiosemicarbazone Me2NNMe2 induces paraptosis by disrupting the ER thiol redox homeostasis based on protein disulfide isomerase inhibition
Authors: Hager Sonja , Korbula Katharina , Bielec Björn , Grusch Michael , Pirker Christine , Schosserer Markus , Liendl Lisa , Lang Magdalena , Grillari Johannes , Nowikovsky Karin , Pape Veronika F. S. , Mohr Thomas , Szakács Gergely , Keppler Bernhard K. , Berger Walter , Kowol Christian R. , Heffeter Petra
Published: October 2018

Due to their high biological activity, thiosemicarbazones have been developed for treatment of diverse diseases, including cancer, resulting in multiple clinical trials especially of the lead compound Triapine. During the last years, a novel subclass of anticancer thiosemicarbazones has attracted substantial interest based on their enhanced cytotoxic activity. Increasing evidence suggests that the double-dimethylated Triapine derivative Me2NNMe2 differs from Triapine not only in its efficacy but also in its mode of action. Here we show that Me2NNMe2- (but not Triapine)-treated cancer cells exhibit all hallmarks of paraptotic cell death including, besides the appearance of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-derived vesicles, also mitochondrial swelling and caspase-independent cell death via the MAPK signaling pathway. Subsequently, we uncover that the copper complex of Me2NNMe2 (a supposed intracellular metabolite) inhibits the ER-resident protein disulfide isomerase, resulting in a specific form of ER stress based on disruption of the Ca2+ and ER thiol redox homeostasis. Our findings indicate that compounds like Me2NNMe2 are of interest especially for the treatment of apoptosis-resistant cancer and provide new insights into mechanisms underlying drug-induced paraptosis.
Common mechanism of transcription termination at coding and noncoding RNA genes in fission yeast
Authors: Larochelle Marc , Robert Marc-Antoine , Hébert Jean-Nicolas , Liu Xiaochuan , Matteau Dominick , Rodrigue Sébastien , Tian Bin , Jacques Pierre-Étienne , Bachand François
Published: October 2018

Termination of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) transcription is a fundamental step of gene expression that is critical for determining the borders between genes. In budding yeast, termination at protein-coding genes is initiated by the cleavage/polyadenylation machinery, whereas termination of most noncoding RNA (ncRNA) genes occurs via the Nrd1–Nab3–Sen1 (NNS) pathway. Here, we find that NNS-like transcription termination is not conserved in fission yeast. Rather, genome-wide analyses show global recruitment of mRNA 3′ end processing factors at the end of ncRNA genes, including snoRNAs and snRNAs, and that this recruitment coincides with high levels of Ser2 and Tyr1 phosphorylation on the RNAPII C-terminal domain. We also find that termination of mRNA and ncRNA transcription requires the conserved Ysh1/CPSF-73 and Dhp1/XRN2 nucleases, supporting widespread cleavage-dependent transcription termination in fission yeast. Our findings thus reveal that a common mode of transcription termination can produce functionally and structurally distinct types of polyadenylated and non-polyadenylated RNAs.
DHX9 helicase promotes R-loop formation in cells with impaired RNA splicing
Authors: Chakraborty Prasun , Huang Jeffrey T. J. , Hiom Kevin
Published: October 2018

R-loops are stable nucleic acid structures that have important physiological functions, but which also pose a significant threat to genomic stability. Increased R-loops cause replication stress and chromosome fragility and have been associated with diseases such as neurodegeneration and cancer. Although excessive R-loops are a feature of cells that are defective in RNA processing, what causes them to form is unclear. Here, we demonstrate that DHX9 (RNA helicase A) promotes the formation of pathological and non-pathological R-loops. In the absence of splicing factors, formation of R-loops correlates with the prolonged association of DHX9 with RNA Polymerase II (RNA Pol II). This leads to the production of DNA–RNA hybrid, which traps RNA Pol II on chromatin with the potential to block DNA replication. Our data provide a molecular mechanism for the formation of R-loops that is relevant to neurodegenerative diseases and cancers in which deregulated RNA processing is a feature.
The reaction of hydroxyl and methylperoxy radicals is not a major source of atmospheric methanol
Authors: Caravan Rebecca L. , Khan M. Anwar H. , Zádor Judit , Sheps Leonid , Antonov Ivan O. , Rotavera Brandon , Ramasesha Krupa , Au Kendrew , Chen Ming-Wei , Rösch Daniel , Osborn David L. , Fittschen Christa , Schoemaecker Coralie , Duncianu Marius , Grira Asma , Dusanter Sebastien , Tomas Alexandre , Percival Carl J. , Shallcross Dudley E. , Taatjes Craig A.
Published: October 2018

Methanol is a benchmark for understanding tropospheric oxidation, but is underpredicted by up to 100% in atmospheric models. Recent work has suggested this discrepancy can be reconciled by the rapid reaction of hydroxyl and methylperoxy radicals with a methanol branching fraction of 30%. However, for fractions below 15%, methanol underprediction is exacerbated. Theoretical investigations of this reaction are challenging because of intersystem crossing between singlet and triplet surfaces – ∼45% of reaction products are obtained via intersystem crossing of a pre-product complex – which demands experimental determinations of product branching. Here we report direct measurements of methanol from this reaction. A branching fraction below 15% is established, consequently highlighting a large gap in the understanding of global methanol sources. These results support the recent high-level theoretical work and substantially reduce its uncertainties.
TRIP13 and APC15 drive mitotic exit by turnover of interphase- and unattached kinetochore-produced MCC
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Han Joo Seok , Ly Peter , Ye Qiaozhen , McMahon Moira A. , Myung Kyungjae , Corbett Kevin D. , Cleveland Don W.
Published: October 2018

The mitotic checkpoint ensures accurate chromosome segregation through assembly of the mitotic checkpoint complex (MCC), a soluble inhibitor of the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) produced by unattached kinetochores. MCC is also assembled during interphase by Mad1/Mad2 bound at nuclear pores, thereby preventing premature mitotic exit prior to kinetochore maturation and checkpoint activation. Using degron tagging to rapidly deplete the AAA+ ATPase TRIP13, we show that its catalytic activity is required to maintain a pool of open-state Mad2 for MCC assembly, thereby supporting mitotic checkpoint activation, but is also required for timely mitotic exit through catalytic disassembly of MCC. Strikingly, combining TRIP13 depletion with elimination of APC15-dependent Cdc20 ubiquitination/degradation results in a complete inability to exit mitosis, even when MCC assembly at unattached kinetochores is prevented. Thus, mitotic exit requires MCC produced either in interphase or mitosis to be disassembled by TRIP13-catalyzed removal of Mad2 or APC15-driven ubiquitination/degradation of its Cdc20 subunit.
Src regulates amino acid-mediated mTORC1 activation by disrupting GATOR1-Rag GTPase interaction
Authors: Pal Rituraj , Palmieri Michela , Chaudhury Arindam , Klisch Tiemo Jürgen , di Ronza Alberto , Neilson Joel R. , Rodney George G. , Sardiello Marco
Published: October 2018

The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) regulates cell survival and autophagy, and its activity is regulated by amino acid availability. Rag GTPase-GATOR1 interactions inhibit mTORC1 in the absence of amino acids, and GATOR1 release and activation of RagA/B promotes mTORC1 activity in the presence of amino acids. However, the factors that play a role in Rag-GATOR1 interaction are still poorly characterized. Here, we show that the tyrosine kinase Src is crucial for amino acid-mediated activation of mTORC1. Src acts upstream of the Rag GTPases by promoting dissociation of GATOR1 from the Rags, thereby determining mTORC1 recruitment and activation at the lysosomal surface. Accordingly, amino acid-mediated regulation of Src/mTORC1 modulates autophagy and cell size expansion. Finally, Src hyperactivation overrides amino acid signaling in the activation of mTORC1. These results shed light on the mechanisms underlying pathway dysregulation in many cancer types.
Enhanced diffusion by binding to the crosslinks of a polymer gel
Authors: Goodrich Carl P. , Brenner Michael P. , Ribbeck Katharina
Published: October 2018

Creating a selective gel that filters particles based on their interactions is a major goal of nanotechnology, with far-reaching implications from drug delivery to controlling assembly pathways. However, this is particularly difficult when the particles are larger than the gel’s characteristic mesh size because such particles cannot passively pass through the gel. Thus, filtering requires the interacting particles to transiently reorganize the gel’s internal structure. While significant advances, e.g., in DNA engineering, have enabled the design of nano-materials with programmable interactions, it is not clear what physical principles such a designer gel could exploit to achieve selective permeability. We present an equilibrium mechanism where crosslink binding dynamics are affected by interacting particles such that particle diffusion is enhanced. In addition to revealing specific design rules for manufacturing selective gels, our results have the potential to explain the origin of selective permeability in certain biological materials, including the nuclear pore complex.