bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discrimination slope and integrated discrimination improvement – properties, relationships and impact of calibration
Authors: Pencina Michael J. , Fine Jason P. , D'Agostino Ralph B.
Published: October 2016

Discrimination slope, defined as the slope of a linear regression of predicted probabilities of event derived from a prognostic model on the binary event status, has recently gained popularity as a measure of model performance. It is as a building block for the integrated discrimination improvement that equals the difference in discrimination slopes between the two models being compared. Several authors have pointed out that it does not make sense to apply the integrated discrimination improvement and discrimination slope when working with mis‐calibrated models, whereas others have raised concerns about the ability of improving discrimination slope without adding new information. In this paper, we show that under certain assumptions the discrimination slope is asymptotically related to two other R‐squared measures, one of which is a rescaled version of the Brier score, known to be proper. Furthermore, we illustrate how a simple recalibration makes the slope equal to the rescaled Brier R‐squared metric. We also show that the discrimination slope can be interpreted as a measure of reduction in expected regret for the Gini‐Brier regret function. Using theoretical and practical examples, we illustrate how all of these metrics are affected by different levels of model mis‐calibration. In particular, we demonstrate that simple recalibration ascertaining calibration in‐the‐large and calibration slope equal to 1 are not sufficient to correct for some forms of mis‐calibration. We conclude that R‐squared metrics, including the discrimination slope, offer an attractive choice for quantifying model performance as long as one accounts for their sensitivity to model calibration. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Cambrian palaeoscolecidWronascolexfrom the Shipai fauna (Cambrian Series 2, Stage 4) of the Three Gorges area, South China
Authors: Yang Yuning , Zhang Xingliang
Published: October 2016

Our understanding of fossil priapulids, and in particular the palaeoscolecids, is limited owing to the rarity of preserved anterior introverts and a general absence of detailed cuticular ornament preservation in compression material. Here we describeWronascolex yichangensissp. nov. (Cycloneuralia, Palaeoscolecida) on the basis of overall external morphology and distinctive scleritome organization in new compressed material from the Shipai fauna, Cambrian Series 2, Stage 4 in the Three Gorges area of South China. Recurrent fine‐scale features observed inSEManalysis distinguishW. yichangensissp. nov. from other species by its extremely closely spaced annulations, each with two rows ofHadimopanella‐type plates ranging from 37 to 62 μm in diameter but without platelets or microplates, and each plate adorned with a single circle of four to seven nodes and an occasional central node on the upper surface. Since the recent reassignment of some species fromPalaeoscolexintoWronascolex, the latter genus has become a fairly diverse and cosmopolitan genus ranging from Cambrian Stage 4 to Drumian in age. However, knowledge of the sclerite pattern ofWronascolexand its associated microstructure for taxonomic purposes are still poorly understood. Since the origins of the phosphatizedHadimopanella‐type sclerites are apparently quite diverse, evaluating the biodiversity and biostratigraphic utility ofWronascolexis currently problematic.
Revision of the early crocodylomorph Trialestes romeri (Archosauria, Suchia) from the lower Upper Triassic Ischigualasto Formation of Argentina: one of the oldest‐known crocodylomorphs
Authors: Lecuona Agustina , Ezcurra Martín D. , Irmis Randall B.
Published: October 2016

Trialestes romeri (Reig) is an early crocodylomorph from the Ischigualasto Formation (late Carnian – early Norian; Ischigualasto – Villa Unión Basin, Argentina) and one of the oldest‐known members of this clade. Two specimens of this species are known, the holotype (PVL 2561) and a referred specimen (PVL 3889), both consisting of associated cranial and postcranial remains. These specimens are incomplete and poorly preserved thus leading previous authors to propose different phylogenetic hypotheses for the species. Trialestes romeri was originally interpreted as a basal dinosaur, subsequently considered to be a crocodylomorph with some dinosaurian characters (e.g. mesotarsal ankle joint, functionally tridactyl pes), and even proposed as a chimera representing two different genera. Some recent workers have mentioned and discussed Trialestes, but none have described it in detail or included it in a quantitative phylogenetic analysis. Here, we describe in detail all the material assignable to the species and test its phylogenetic relationships using a comprehensive data matrix focused on early archosaurs. We support the referral of PVL 3889 to Trialestes and reject the presence of a mesotarsal ankle joint in this specimen. We recovered Trialestes within Crocodylomorpha, closer to Crocodyliformes than Pseudhesperosuchus, Hesperosuchus, Dromicosuchus and Sphenosuchus. Several stratigraphical units worldwide approximately coeval with the Ischigualasto Formation, have also yielded early crocodylomorph remains, such as the upper Santa María (Brazil), Pekin (USA), and lower Maleri (India) formations. However, the crocodylomorph specimens recovered from those units are more incomplete, possess uncertain phylogenetic affinities, or are part of chimaerae. Therefore, Trialestes represents the most completely known of the earliest non‐crocodyliform crocodylomorph taxa known to date.
Modellbasierte Planung und Bauausführung des räumlichen Stahltragwerkes bei der Müllverbrennungsanlage Amager Bakke
Authors: Hauptenbuchner Johannes , Bergmann Kai Uwe
Published: October 2016

Amager Bakke (übersetzt: Amager Berg), so nennen die Kopenhagener den Neubau des Müllverbrennungskraftwerks auf der Halbinsel Amager in Kopenhagen. Es wird zu einer der größten Müllverbrennungsanlagen in Nordeuropa gehören und dient der kombinierten Fernwärme‐ und Stromerzeugung. Auf dem Dach der Kraftwerksanlage sollen ein Landschaftspark mit künstlichen Skipisten und eine Aussichtsplattform entstehen. Das Tragwerk des Gebäudes wird hauptsächlich durch eine komplexe, dreidimensionale Stahlstruktur gebildet, dessen modellbasierte Planung und Bauausführung eine anspruchsvolle Aufgabe für alle beteiligten Ingenieure und Firmen war.

Model based design and construction of the complex steel structure at the Amager Bakke incinerator. Amager Bakke (translated: Amager hill), is the name of Copenhagen's new waste‐to‐energy‐plant located on the Amager peninsula. When finished, it will be one of the largest incinerators in northern Europe and used for the combined production of district heating and electricity. Atop the waste‐to‐energy plant will rest a landscape park featuring artificial ski slopes and a viewing platform. The support structure is mainly formed by a steel structure. The model based design and construction of the complex, three‐dimensional steel structure has proven a challenging task for all engineers and companies involved.
Symbiose aus Stahl und Stein – Eine innovative Stahlverbundlösung für komplexe innerstädtische Bauprojekte
Authors: Schäfer Markus , Radermacher Christoph , Braun Matthias , Hettinger Rheinhold , Freis Claus , Pesch Antoine , Benyahia Faiza
Published: October 2016

Das Immobilienprojekt KONS sieht innerhalb von zweieinhalb Jahren den Abriss und die neue Überbauung eines großen Areals gegenüber des Hauptbahnhofs in zentraler, innerstädtischer Lage der Stadt Luxemburg vor. Die Anforderungen der Investoren wie auch die Auflagen der Verwaltung konnten nur durch einen integrativen und intelligenten Planungsprozess erfüllt werden. Die komplexen Verflechtungen zwischen logistischen und baubetrieblichen Abläufen, konstruktiven Detailfragen und wirtschaftlicher Gesamtbetrachtung fanden ihre Lösung in einer in jeder Hinsicht leistungsfähigen Stahlverbundkonzeption.

Symbiosis of steel and stone – An innovative solution realized by a composite structure in steel and concrete for complex intra‐urban projects. The real estate project KONS encountered a two and a half year process of demolition of an existing building and construction of a new building complex in a central, urban location of Luxembourg City opposite of the main railway station. Thereby the ambitious specifications of the investor as well as the requirements of the local authorities could be met only through a comprehensive and intelligent planning process. The complex interrelation between logistics and construction management processes, detailing and overall economic assessmentfound the solution of steel‐composite design highly performant and efficient in every aspect.
Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation and Transfer Hydrogenation: Sustainable Chemistry to Access Bioactive Molecules
Authors: Ayad Tahar , Phansavath Phannarath , Ratovelomanana‐Vidal Virginie
Published: October 2016

Over the last few decades, the development of new and highly efficient synthetic methods to obtain chiral compounds has become an increasingly important and challenging research area in modern synthetic organic chemistry. In this account, we review recent work from our laboratory toward the synthesis of valuable chiral building blocks through transition‐metal‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation and transfer hydrogenation of C=O, C=N and C=C bonds. Application to the synthesis of biologically relevant products is also described.
Classical integrability for three-point functions: cognate structure at weak and strong couplings
Authors: Kazama Yoichi , Komatsu Shota , Nishimura Takuya
Published: October 2016

Abstract

In this paper, we develop a new method of computing three-point functions in the SU(2) sector of the

$$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$

N
=
4

super Yang-Mills theory in the semi-classical regime at weak coupling, which closely parallels the strong coupling analysis. The structure threading two disparate regimes is the so-called monodromy relation, an identity connecting the three-point functions with and without the insertion of the monodromy matrix. We shall show that this relation can be put to use directly for the semi-classical regime, where the dynamics is governed by the classical Landau-Lifshitz sigma model. Specifically, it reduces the problem to a set of functional equations, which can be solved once the analyticity in the spectral parameter space is specified. To determine the analyticity, we develop a new universal logic applicable at both weak and strong couplings. As a result, compact semi-classical formulas are obtained for a general class of three-point functions at weak coupling including the ones whose semi-classical behaviors were not known before. In addition, the new analyticity argument applied to the strong coupling analysis leads to a modification of the integration contour, producing the results consistent with the recent hexagon bootstrap approach. This modification also makes the Frolov-Tseytlin limit perfectly agree with the weak coupling form.
Social exclusion of older persons: a scoping review and conceptual framework
Authors: Walsh Kieran , Scharf Thomas , Keating Norah
Published: October 2016

As a concept, social exclusion has considerable potential to explain and respond to disadvantage in later life. However, in the context of ageing populations, the construct remains ambiguous. A disjointed evidence-base, spread across disparate disciplines, compounds the challenge of developing a coherent understanding of exclusion in older age. This article addresses this research deficit by presenting the findings of a two-stage scoping review encompassing seven separate reviews of the international literature pertaining to old-age social exclusion. Stage one involved a review of conceptual frameworks on old-age exclusion, identifying conceptual understandings and key domains of later-life exclusion. Stage two involved scoping reviews on each domain (six in all). Stage one identified six conceptual frameworks on old-age exclusion and six common domains across these frameworks: neighbourhood and community; services, amenities and mobility; social relations; material and financial resources; socio-cultural aspects; and civic participation. International literature concentrated on the first four domains, but indicated a general lack of research knowledge and of theoretical development. Drawing on all seven scoping reviews and a knowledge synthesis, the article presents a new definition and conceptual framework relating to old-age exclusion.
EMCEL, ¿cómo ejecutar una buena recuperación del servicio?
Authors: González Sánchez Juan Manuel , Carla Manfredi Luciana
Published: October 2016

El presente caso de estudio tiene como objetivo mostrarle al lector una situación problemática de falla de un servicio e inducir al debate acerca de las distintas formas de responder correctamente a la falla de un servicio. A través de un caso de estudio basado en una situación real en la cual una empresa comete un error en la prestación de un servicio y a su vez inicia el proceso de recuperación del mismo, de fidelización del cliente y de reparación de su reputación organizacional, se pretenden mostrar distintas maneras de recuperación del servicio y brindar una orientación y recomendación en torno a cómo construir confianza con el cliente y reparar la reputación de la organización. La principal conclusión es que en un escenario caracterizado por una menor diferenciación entre productos, dados sus niveles de calidad y desempeño tan similares, el servicio se convierte en el elemento que verdaderamente agrega valor, porque es allí donde radica la diferencia que hace más atractiva una oferta frente a las demás.
Theoretical simulation of high-voltage discharge with runaway electrons in sulfur hexafluoride at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Kozyrev Andrey V. , Kozhevnikov Vasily Yu. , Semeniuk Natalia S.
Published: October 2016

The results of theoretical simulation of runaway electron generation in high-pressure pulsed gas discharge with inhomogeneous electric field are presented. Hydrodynamic and kinetic approaches are used simultaneously to describe the dynamics of different components of low-temperature discharge plasma. Breakdown of coaxial diode occurs in the form of a dense plasma region expanding from the cathode. On this background there is a formation of runaway electrons that are initiated by the ensemble of plasma electrons generated in the place locally enhanced electric field in front of dense plasma. It is shown that the power spectrum of fast electrons in the discharge contains electron group with the so-called “anomalous” energy.
Wang Receives 2016 James R. Holton Junior Scientist Award
Authors:   AGU
Published: October 2016

Yuan Wang will receive the 2016 James R. Holton Junior Scientist Award at the 2016 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, to be held 12–16 December in San Francisco, Calif. The award recognizes "outstanding research contributions by a junior atmospheric scientist within three years of his or her Ph.D."
More than Social–Cultural Influences: A Research Agenda for Evolutionary Perspectives on Prosocial Media Effects
Authors: Ng Yu-Leung
Published: October 2016

Prosocial media effects, short- and long-term intrapersonal changes in prosocial personality traits, values, emotions, and behavior caused by media use, have attracted much less attention than media violence research. Empirical examinations of current theories of prosocial media effects have focused on the indirect effects of prosocial media that explain why exposure to it results in prosocial behavior. However, they have neglected other types of media effects. Further, because of philosophical biases in the field of communication, only the social-cultural perspective has been used to explain the psychological antecedents and consequences of prosocial media effects. The origins and ultimate functions of prosociality in the processes of media effects are unknown. The intersection of evolutionary theories and media effects theories provides a more comprehensive explanation of prosocial media effects. Using various evolutionary perspectives on altruism, reciprocity, and cooperation, this article synthesizes 4 types of prosocial media effects: selective, indirect, conditional, and transactional, suggesting that the dramatic prosocial media learning process should be considered from a comprehensive nature-nurture interactive view. The research agenda, implications, and recent methodological advances are highlighted.
Colossal magnetic phase transition asymmetry in mesoscale FeRh stripes
Authors: Uhlíř V. , Arregi J. A. , Fullerton E. E.
Published: October 2016

Coupled order parameters in phase-transition materials can be controlled using various driving forces such as temperature, magnetic and electric field, strain, spin-polarized currents and optical pulses. Tuning the material properties to achieve efficient transitions would enable fast and low-power electronic devices. Here we show that the first-order metamagnetic phase transition in FeRh films becomes strongly asymmetric in mesoscale structures. In patterned FeRh stripes we observed pronounced supercooling and an avalanche-like abrupt transition from the ferromagnetic to the antiferromagnetic phase, while the reverse transition remains nearly continuous over a broad temperature range. Although modest asymmetry signatures have been found in FeRh films, the effect is dramatically enhanced at the mesoscale. The activation volume of the antiferromagnetic phase is more than two orders of magnitude larger than typical magnetic heterogeneities observed in films. The collective behaviour upon cooling results from the role of long-range ferromagnetic exchange correlations that become important at the mesoscale and should be a general property of first-order metamagnetic phase transitions.
Imaging and controlling plasmonic interference fields at buried interfaces
Authors: Lummen Tom T. A. , Lamb Raymond J. , Berruto Gabriele , LaGrange Thomas , Dal Negro Luca , García de Abajo F. Javier , McGrouther Damien , Barwick B. , Carbone F.
Published: October 2016

Capturing and controlling plasmons at buried interfaces with nanometre and femtosecond resolution has yet to be achieved and is critical for next generation plasmonic devices. Here we use light to excite plasmonic interference patterns at a buried metal–dielectric interface in a nanostructured thin film. Plasmons are launched from a photoexcited array of nanocavities and their propagation is followed via photon-induced near-field electron microscopy (PINEM). The resulting movie directly captures the plasmon dynamics, allowing quantification of their group velocity at ∼0.3 times the speed of light, consistent with our theoretical predictions. Furthermore, we show that the light polarization and nanocavity design can be tailored to shape transient plasmonic gratings at the nanoscale. This work, demonstrating dynamical imaging with PINEM, paves the way for the femtosecond and nanometre visualization and control of plasmonic fields in advanced heterostructures based on novel two-dimensional materials such as graphene, MoS2, and ultrathin metal films.
Impact of splenic artery ligation after major hepatectomy on liver function, regeneration and viability
Authors: Carrapita Jorge , Abrantes Ana Margarida , Campelos Sofia , Gonçalves Ana Cristina , Cardoso Dulce , Sarmento-Ribeiro Ana Bela , Rocha Clara , Santos Jorge Nunes , Botelho Maria Filomena , Tralhão José Guilherme , Farges Olivier , Barbosa Jorge Maciel
Published: October 2016

It was reported that prevention of acute portal overpressure in small-for-size livers by inflow modulation results in a better postoperative outcome. The aim is to investigate the impact of portal blood flow reduction by splenic artery ligation after major hepatectomy in a murine model. Forty-eight rats were subjected to an 85% hepatectomy or 85% hepatectomy and splenic artery ligation. Both groups were evaluated at 24, 48, 72 and 120 post-operative hours: liver function, regeneration and viability. All methods and experiments were carried out in accordance with Coimbra University guidelines. Splenic artery ligation produces viability increase after 24 h, induces a relative decrease in oxidative stress during the first 48 hours, allows antioxidant capacity increment after 24 h, which is reflected in a decrease of half-time normalized liver curve at 48 h and at 72 h and in an increase of mitotic index between 48 h and 72 h. Splenic artery ligation combined with 85% hepatectomy in a murine model, allows portal inflow modulation, promoting an increase in hepatocellular viability and regeneration, without impairing the function, probably by inducing a less marked elevation of oxidative stress at first 48 hours.
Tool transfers are a form of teaching among chimpanzees
Authors: Musgrave Stephanie , Morgan David , Lonsdorf Elizabeth , Mundry Roger , Sanz Crickette
Published: October 2016

Teaching is a form of high-fidelity social learning that promotes human cumulative culture. Although recently documented in several nonhuman animals, teaching is rare among primates. In this study, we show that wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes troglodytes)in the Goualougo Triangle teach tool skills by providing learners with termite fishing probes. Tool donors experienced significant reductions in tool use and feeding, while tool recipients significantly increased their tool use and feeding after tool transfers. These transfers meet functional criteria for teaching: they occur in a learner’s presence, are costly to the teacher, and improve the learner’s performance. Donors also showed sophisticated cognitive strategies that effectively buffered them against potential costs. Teaching is predicted when less costly learning mechanisms are insufficient. Given that these chimpanzees manufacture sophisticated, brush-tipped fishing probes from specific raw materials, teaching in this population may relate to the complexity of these termite-gathering tasks.
Global disruption of degree rank order: a hallmark of chronic pain
Authors: Mansour Ali , Baria Alex T. , Tetreault Pascal , Vachon-Presseau Etienne , Chang Pei-Ching , Huang Lejian , Apkarian A. Vania , Baliki Marwan N.
Published: October 2016

Chronic pain remains poorly understood; yet it is associated with the reorganization of the nervous system. Here, we demonstrate that a unitary global measure of functional connectivity, defined as the extent of degree rank order disruption, kD, identifies the chronic pain state. In contrast, local degree disruption differentiates between chronic pain conditions. We used resting-state functional MRI data to analyze the brain connectome at varying scales and densities. In three chronic pain conditions, we observe disrupted kD, in proportion to individuals’ pain intensity, and associated with community membership disruption. Additionally, we observe regional degree changes, some of which were unique to each type of chronic pain. Subjects with recent onset of back pain exhibited emergence of kD only when the pain became chronic. Similarly, in neuropathic rats kD emerged weeks after injury, in proportion to pain-like behavior. Thus, we found comprehensive cross-species evidence for chronic pain being a state of global randomization of functional connectivity.
Systems-level analysis reveals selective regulation of Aqp2 gene expression by vasopressin
Authors: Sandoval Pablo C. , Claxton J’Neka S. , Lee Jae Wook , Saeed Fahad , Hoffert Jason D. , Knepper Mark A.
Published: October 2016

Vasopressin-mediated regulation of renal water excretion is defective in a variety of water balance disorders in humans. It occurs in part through long-term mechanisms that regulate the abundance of the aquaporin-2 water channel in renal collecting duct cells. Here, we use deep DNA sequencing in mouse collecting duct cells to ask whether vasopressin signaling selectively increases Aqp2 gene transcription or whether it triggers a broadly targeted transcriptional network. ChIP-Seq quantification of binding sites for RNA polymerase II was combined with RNA-Seq quantification of transcript abundances to identify genes whose transcription is regulated by vasopressin. (View curated dataset at https://helixweb.nih.gov/ESBL/Database/Vasopressin/). The analysis revealed only 35 vasopressin-regulated genes (of 3659) including Aqp2. Increases in RNA polymerase II binding and mRNA abundances for Aqp2 far outstripped corresponding measurements for all other genes, consistent with the conclusion that vasopressin-mediated transcriptional regulation is highly selective for Aqp2. Despite the overall selectivity of the net transcriptional response, vasopressin treatment was associated with increased RNA polymerase II binding to the promoter proximal region of a majority of expressed genes, suggesting a nearly global positive regulation of transcriptional initiation with transcriptional pausing. Thus, the overall net selectivity appears to be a result of selective control of transcriptional elongation.
Defining cutaneous molecular pathobiology of arsenicals using phenylarsine oxide as a prototype
Authors: Srivastava Ritesh K. , Li Changzhao , Weng Zhiping , Agarwal Anupam , Elmets Craig A. , Afaq Farrukh , Athar Mohammad
Published: October 2016

Arsenicals are painful, inflammatory and blistering causing agents developed as chemical weapons in World War I/II. However, their large stockpiles still exist posing threat to public health. Phenylarsine oxide (PAO), a strong oxidant and a prototype arsenical is tested for its suitability to defining molecular mechanisms underlying arsenicals-mediated tissue injury. Topically applied PAO induces cutaneous erythema, edema and micro-blisters. These gross inflammatory responses were accompanied by the enhanced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, ROS and unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling activation. To demonstrate the involvement of UPR in the pathobiology of these lesions, we employed chemical chaperone, 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) which attenuates UPR. 4-PBA significantly reduced PAO-induced inflammation and blistering. Similar to its effects in murine epidermis, a dose- and time-dependent upregulation of ROS, cytokines, UPR proteins (GRP78, p-PERK, p-eIF2α, ATF4 and CHOP) and apoptosis were observed in PAO-treated human skin keratinocytes NHEK and HaCaT. In addition, 4-PBA significantly restored these molecular alterations in these cells. Employing RNA interference (RNAi)-based approaches, CHOP was found to be a key regulator of these responses. These effects are similar to those manifested by lewisite suggesting that PAO could be used as a prototype of arsenicals to define the molecular pathogenesis of chemical injury.
Light-triggered Supramolecular Isomerism in a Self-catenated Zn(II)-organic Framework: Dynamic Photo-switching CO2 Uptake and Detection of Nitroaromatics
Authors: Song Wei-Chao , Cui Xun-Zhe , Liu Zhong-Yi , Yang En-Cui , Zhao Xiao-Jun
Published: October 2016

A self-catenated Zn(II)-organic framework formulated as [Zn2(3,3′-bpeab)(oba)2]·DMF (1) exhibiting a six-connected 44·610·8 topology has been successfully synthesized through the mixed-ligand of kinked 3,3′-bis[2-(4-pyridyl)ethenyl]azobenzene (3,3′-bpeab) and 4,4′-oxybis-benzoic acid (H2oba) under solvothermal condition. UV light triggers isomerization of complex 1 in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal (SCSC) manner, giving rise to a conformational supramolecular isomer 1_UV through the pedal motion of photoresponsive double bonds. Dynamic photo-switching in the obtained light-responsive supramolecular isomers leads to instantly reversible CO2 uptake. Furthermore, the ligand originated fluorescence emission of water-resistant complex 1 is selectively sensitive to 4-nitrotoluene (4-NT) owing to a higher quenching efficiency of the perilous explosive over other structurally similar nitroaromatics, prefiguring the potentials of 1 as a fluorescence sensor towards 4-NT in aquatic media.
Decoupling of nutrient element cycles in soil and plants across an altitude gradient
Authors: Tan Qiqi , Wang Guoan
Published: October 2016

Previous studies have examined the decoupling of C, N, and P under rapid changes in climate. While this may occur in different environment types, such climactic changes have been reported over short distances in mountainous terrain. We hypothesized that the decoupling of C, N, and P could also occur in response to increases in altitude. We sampled soil and plants from Mount Gongga, Sichuan Province, China. Soil C and N were not related to altitude, whereas soil P increased with altitude. Soil N did not change with mean annual temperature (MAT), mean annual precipitation (MAP), vegetation and soil types, whereas soil P varied with MAT and vegetation type. Plant C remained constant with increasing altitude; plant N exhibited a quadratic change trend along the altitude gradient, with a turning point at 2350 m above average sea level; and plant P decreased with altitude. MAP mostly accounted for the variation in plant P. MAT was responsible for the variation of plant N at elevations below 2350 m, whereas MAT and vegetation type were the dominant influential factors of plants growing above 2350 m. Thus, the decoupling of C, N, and P in both soil and plants was significantly affected by altitude.
Impaired socio-emotional processing in a developmental music disorder
Authors: Lima César F. , Brancatisano Olivia , Fancourt Amy , Müllensiefen Daniel , Scott Sophie K. , Warren Jason D. , Stewart Lauren
Published: October 2016

Some individuals show a congenital deficit for music processing despite normal peripheral auditory processing, cognitive functioning, and music exposure. This condition, termed congenital amusia, is typically approached regarding its profile of musical and pitch difficulties. Here, we examine whether amusia also affects socio-emotional processing, probing auditory and visual domains. Thirteen adults with amusia and 11 controls completed two experiments. In Experiment 1, participants judged emotions in emotional speech prosody, nonverbal vocalizations (e.g., crying), and (silent) facial expressions. Target emotions were: amusement, anger, disgust, fear, pleasure, relief, and sadness. Compared to controls, amusics were impaired for all stimulus types, and the magnitude of their impairment was similar for auditory and visual emotions. In Experiment 2, participants listened to spontaneous and posed laughs, and either inferred the authenticity of the speaker’s state, or judged how much laughs were contagious. Amusics showed decreased sensitivity to laughter authenticity, but normal contagion responses. Across the experiments, mixed-effects models revealed that the acoustic features of vocal signals predicted socio-emotional evaluations in both groups, but the profile of predictive acoustic features was different in amusia. These findings suggest that a developmental music disorder can affect socio-emotional cognition in subtle ways, an impairment not restricted to auditory information.
Cerebral Activity Associated with Transient Sleep-Facilitated Reduction in Motor Memory Vulnerability to Interference
Authors: Albouy Geneviève , King Bradley R. , Schmidt Christina , Desseilles Martin , Dang-Vu Thien Thanh , Balteau Evelyne , Phillips Christophe , Degueldre Christian , Orban Pierre , Benali Habib , Peigneux Philippe , Luxen André , Karni Avi , Doyon Julien , Maquet Pierre , Korman Maria
Published: October 2016

Motor memory consolidation is characterized, in part, by a sleep-facilitated decrease in susceptibility to subsequent interfering experiences. Surprisingly, the cerebral substrates supporting this phenomenon have never been examined. We used fMRI to investigate the neural correlates of the influence of sleep on interference to motor memory consolidation. Healthy young adults were trained on a sequential motor task, and subsequently practiced a second competing sequence after an interval including diurnal sleep or wakefulness. Participants were then retested on the initial sequence 8 h and 24 h (including nocturnal sleep) after training. Results demonstrated that a post-training nap significantly protected memory against interference at 8 h and modulated the link between cerebral activity and behavior, such that a smaller post-interference decrease in cortico-striatal activity was associated with better performance. Interestingly, the protective effect of a nap was only transitory, as both groups performed similarly at 24 h. Activity in cortico-striatal areas that was disrupted during the day, presumably due to interference and accentuated in the absence of a nap, was restored overnight. Altogether, our findings offer the first evidence that cortico-striatal areas play a critical role in the transient sleep-facilitated reduction in motor memory vulnerability and in the overnight restoration of previously degraded memories.
Stability of retained austenite in high carbon steel under compressive stress: an investigation from macro to nano scale
Authors: Hossain R. , Pahlevani F. , Quadir M. Z. , Sahajwalla V.
Published: October 2016

Although high carbon martensitic steels are well known for their industrial utility in high abrasion and extreme operating environments, due to their hardness and strength, the compressive stability of their retained austenite, and the implications for the steels’ performance and potential uses, is not well understood. This article describes the first investigation at both the macro and nano scale of the compressive stability of retained austenite in high carbon martensitic steel. Using a combination of standard compression testing, X-ray diffraction, optical microstructure, electron backscattering diffraction imaging, electron probe micro-analysis, nano-indentation and micro-indentation measurements, we determined the mechanical stability of retained austenite and martensite in high carbon steel under compressive stress and identified the phase transformation mechanism, from the macro to the nano level. We found at the early stage of plastic deformation hexagonal close-packed (HCP) martensite formation dominates, while higher compression loads trigger body-centred tetragonal (BCT) martensite formation. The combination of this phase transformation and strain hardening led to an increase in the hardness of high carbon steel of around 30%. This comprehensive characterisation of stress induced phase transformation could enable the precise control of the microstructures of high carbon martensitic steels, and hence their properties.
The chitin synthase FgChs2 and other FgChss co-regulate vegetative development and virulence in F. graminearum
Authors: Liu Zunyong , Zhang Xiaoping , Liu Xin , Fu Chaoyu , Han Xinyue , Yin Yanni , Ma Zhonghua
Published: October 2016

Fusarium graminearum contains eight chitin synthase (Chs) genes belonging to seven classes. Previous studies have found that deletion of FgChs3b is lethal to F. graminearum, and deletion of FgChs1, FgChs2, FgChs7 and FgChs5 caused diverse defects in chitin content, mycelial growth, conidiation, virulence or stress responses. However, little is known about the functional relationships among these FgChss. In this study, FgChs2 deletion mutant ΔFgChs2 exhibited reduced mycelial growth and virulence as reported previously. In addition, we found that the mutant produced thickened and “wavy” septa. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assays showed that the expression levels of FgChs1, FgChs3a, FgChs4, FgChs7, FgChs5 and FgChs6 in ΔFgChs2 were significantly higher than those in the wild type. Therefore, we generated six double deletion mutants of FgChs2 and each of the above six FgChss, and found that FgChs2 shares a function with FgChs1 in regulating mycelial growth, and co-regulates conidiation with FgChs1, FgChs4, FgChs7 and FgChs5. Furthermore, FgChs2 and other six FgChss have overlapped functions in virulence, DON production and septum formation. Taken together, these results indicate that although each chitin synthase of F. graminearum plays certain roles, FgChss may co-regualte various cellular processes in F. graminearum.
Three-dimensional reconstruction of single-cell chromosome structure using recurrence plots
Authors: Hirata Yoshito , Oda Arisa , Ohta Kunihiro , Aihara Kazuyuki
Published: October 2016

Single-cell analysis of the three-dimensional (3D) chromosome structure can reveal cell-to-cell variability in genome activities. Here, we propose to apply recurrence plots, a mathematical method of nonlinear time series analysis, to reconstruct the 3D chromosome structure of a single cell based on information of chromosomal contacts from genome-wide chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) data. This recurrence plot-based reconstruction (RPR) method enables rapid reconstruction of a unique structure in single cells, even from incomplete Hi-C information.
A Naturally Occurring Antibody Fragment Neutralizes Infectivity of Diverse Infectious Agents
Authors: Polonelli Luciano , Ciociola Tecla , Elviri Lisa , Zanello Pier Paolo , Giovati Laura , Arruda Denise C. , Muñoz Julián E. , Mortara Renato A. , Morace Giulia , Borghi Elisa , Galati Serena , Marin Oriano , Casoli Claudio , Pilotti Elisabetta , Ronzi Paola , Travassos Luiz R. , Magliani Walter , Conti Stefania
Published: October 2016

A phosphorylated peptide, named K40H, derived from the constant region of IgMs was detected in human serum by liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry. Synthetic K40H proved to exert a potent in vitro activity against fungal pathogens, and to inhibit HIV-1 replication in vitro and ex vivo. It also showed a therapeutic effect against an experimental infection by Candida albicans in the invertebrate model Galleria mellonella. K40H represents the proof of concept of the innate role that naturally occurring antibody fragments may exert against infectious agents, shedding a new light upon the posthumous role of antibodies and opening a new scenario on the multifaceted functionality of humoral immunity.
Cathelicidins in the Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii)
Authors: Peel E. , Cheng Y. , Djordjevic J. T. , Fox S. , Sorrell T. C. , Belov K.
Published: October 2016

Tasmanian devil joeys, like other marsupials, are born at a very early stage of development, prior to the development of their adaptive immune system, yet survive in a pathogen-laden pouch and burrow. Antimicrobial peptides, called cathelicidins, which provide innate immune protection during early life, are expressed in the pouch lining, skin and milk of devil dams. These peptides are active against pathogens identified in the pouch microbiome. Of the six characterised cathelicidins, Saha-CATH5 and 6 have broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and are capable of killing problematic human pathogens including methicillin-resistant S. aureus and vancomycin-resistant E. faecalis, while Saha-CATH3 is active against fungi. Saha-CATH5 and 6 were toxic to human A549 cells at 500 μg/mL, which is over seven times the concentration required to kill pathogens. The remaining devil cathelicidins were not active against tested bacterial or fungal strains, but are widely expressed throughout the body, such as in immune tissues, in digestive, respiratory and reproductive tracts, and in the milk and pouch, which indicates that they are likely also important components of the devil immune system. Our results suggest cathelicidins play a role in protecting naive young during pouch life by passive immune transfer in the milk and may modulate pouch microbe populations to reduce potential pathogens.
Multidimensional differentiation in foraging resource use during breeding of two sympatric top predators
Authors: Friedemann Guilad , Leshem Yossi , Kerem Lior , Shacham Boaz , Bar-Massada Avi , McClain Krystaal M. , Bohrer Gil , Izhaki Ido
Published: October 2016

Ecologically-similar species were found to develop specific strategies to partition their resources, leading to niche differentiation and divergence, in order to avoid interspecific competition. Our study determines multi-dimensional differentiation of two sympatric top-predators, long-legged buzzards (LLB) and short-toed eagles (STE), which recently became sympatric during their breeding season in the Judean Foothills, Israel. By combining information from comprehensive diet and movement analyses we found four dimensions of differentiation: (1) Geographic foraging area: LLB tended to forage relatively close to their nests (2.35 ± 0.62 km), while STE forage far from their nest (13.03 ± 2.20 km); (2) Foraging-habitat type: LLBs forage at low natural vegetation, avoiding cultivated fields, whereas STEs forage in cultivated fields, avoiding low natural vegetation; (3) Diurnal dynamics of foraging: LLBs are uniformly active during daytime, whereas STEs activity peaks in the early afternoon; and (4) Food-niche: while both species largely rely on reptiles (47.8% and 76.3% for LLB and STE, respectively), LLB had a more diverse diet and consumed significantly higher percentages of lizards, while STE consumed significantly higher percentages of snakes. Our results suggest that this multidimensional differentiation allows the spatial coexistence of these two dense populations in the study area.
Rate dependence of cell-to-cell variations of lithium-ion cells
Authors: An Fuqiang , Chen Lufan , Huang Jun , Zhang Jianbo , Li Ping
Published: October 2016

Lithium-ion cells are commonly used in a multicell configuration in power devices and electric vehicles, making the cell-to-cell variation (CtCV) a key factor to consider in system design and management. Previous studies on CtCV have two major limitations: the number of cells is usually less than one hundred, and the cells are usually commercial cells already subjected to cell-screenings. In this article, we first make a statistical analysis on the CtCV of 5473 fresh cells from an automotive battery manufacturer before the cell-screening process. Secondly, 198 cells are randomly selected from these 5473 cells and the rate dependence of the CtCV is examined, focusing on the correlations of capacity versus weight and capacity versus resistance, corresponding to thermodynamic and kinetic factors, respectively. The rate dependence of these two correlations is explained from a phenomenological model. Finally, eight cells from the 198 cells are further characterized with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy method to elucidate the kinetic origins of the CtCV.
Regulatory T cells, especially ICOS+ FOXP3+ regulatory T cells, are increased in the hepatocellular carcinoma microenvironment and predict reduced survival
Authors: Tu Jian-Fei , Ding Ya-Hui , Ying Xi-Hui , Wu Fa-Zong , Zhou Xin-Mu , Zhang Deng-Ke , Zou Hai , Ji Jian-Song
Published: October 2016

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumour, especially in Asia. Its prognosis is poor, and there are limited methods for predicting patient survival. This study was carried out to analyse the prognostic value of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), especially regulatory T cells (Tregs), in HCC patients. TILs were analysed in 57 randomly selected HCC patients. The prognostic effects of groups with high and low numbers were evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier and Cox model analyses. Although higher densities of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs) as well as CD56+ NK cells and CD68+ macrophages were observed in peritumoural tissue, increased numbers of forkhead/winged helix transcription factor P3+ (FOXP3+) Tregs were found in intratumoural tissue. Additionally, regarding ICOS+ FOXP3+ Tregs, an increased prevalence in carcinoma was not only associated with the absolute number but also with the percentage of FOXP3+ cells. Higher Treg levels in tumour tissues indicated a worse prognosis, and the FOXP3+ Tregs/CD4+ T cells ratio was an independent prognostic factor for OS. Therefore, FOXP3+ Tregs, especially ICOS+ FOXP3+ Tregs, contribute to the immunosuppressive HCC microenvironment. High tumour-infiltrating Tregs are thought to be an unfavourable prognostic indicator of HCC.
Ecosystem engineering creates a direct nutritional link between 600-m deep cold-water coral mounds and surface productivity
Authors: Soetaert Karline , Mohn Christian , Rengstorf Anna , Grehan Anthony , van Oevelen Dick
Published: October 2016

Cold-water corals (CWCs) form large mounds on the seafloor that are hotspots of biodiversity in the deep sea, but it remains enigmatic how CWCs can thrive in this food-limited environment. Here, we infer from model simulations that the interaction between tidal currents and CWC-formed mounds induces downwelling events of surface water that brings organic matter to 600-m deep CWCs. This positive feedback between CWC growth on carbonate mounds and enhanced food supply is essential for their sustenance in the deep sea and represents an example of ecosystem engineering of unparalleled magnitude. This ’topographically-enhanced carbon pump’ leaks organic matter that settles at greater depths. The ubiquitous presence of biogenic and geological topographies along ocean margins suggests that carbon sequestration through this pump is of global importance. These results indicate that enhanced stratification and lower surface productivity, both expected consequences of climate change, may negatively impact the energy balance of CWCs.
Dynamin 2 is essential for mammalian spermatogenesis
Authors: Redgrove Kate A. , Bernstein Ilana R. , Pye Victoria J. , Mihalas Bettina P. , Sutherland Jessie M. , Nixon Brett , McCluskey Adam , Robinson Phillip J. , Holt Janet E. , McLaughlin Eileen A.
Published: October 2016

The dynamin family of proteins play important regulatory roles in membrane remodelling and endocytosis, especially within brain and neuronal tissues. In the context of reproduction, dynamin 1 (DNM1) and dynamin 2 (DNM2) have recently been shown to act as key mediators of sperm acrosome formation and function. However, little is known about the roles that these proteins play in the developing testicular germ cells. In this study, we employed a DNM2 germ cell-specific knockout model to investigate the role of DNM2 in spermatogenesis. We demonstrate that ablation of DNM2 in early spermatogenesis results in germ cell arrest during prophase I of meiosis, subsequent loss of all post-meiotic germ cells and concomitant sterility. These effects become exacerbated with age, and ultimately result in the demise of the spermatogonial stem cells and a Sertoli cell only phenotype. We also demonstrate that DNM2 activity may be temporally regulated by phosphorylation of DNM2 via the kinase CDK1 in spermatogonia, and dephosphorylation by phosphatase PPP3CA during meiotic and post-meiotic spermatogenesis.
Improved PEDOT:PSS/c-Si hybrid solar cell using inverted structure and effective passivation
Authors: Zhang Xisheng , Yang Dong , Yang Zhou , Guo Xiaojia , Liu Bin , Ren Xiaodong , Liu Shengzhong
Published: October 2016

The PEDOT:PSS is often used as the window layer in the normal structured PEDOT:PSS/c-Si hybrid solar cell (HSC), leading to significantly reduced response, especially in red and near-infrared region. By depositing the PEDOT:PSS on the rear side of the c-Si wafer, we developed an inverted structured HSC with much higher solar cell response in the red and near-infrared spectrum. Passivating the other side with hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) before electrode deposition, the minority carrier lifetime has been significantly increased and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the inverted HSC is improved to as high as 16.1% with an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 634 mV, fill factor (FF) of 70.5%, and short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 36.2 mA cm−2, an improvement of 33% over the control device. The improvements are ascribed to inverted configuration and a-Si:H passivation, which can increase photon carrier generation and reduce carrier recombination, respectively. Both of them will benefit the photovoltaic performance and should be considered as effective design strategies to improve the performance of organic/c-Si HSCs.