bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Well-posedness of the two-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation with concentrated nonlinearity
Authors: Carlone Raffaele , Correggi Michele , Tentarelli Lorenzo
Published: June 2018

We consider a two-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation with concentrated nonlinearity. In both the focusing and defocusing case we prove local well-posedness, i.e., existence and uniqueness of the solution for short times, as well as energy and mass conservation. In addition, we prove that this implies global existence in the defocusing case, irrespective of the power of the nonlinearity, while in the focusing case blowing-up solutions may arise.
Dairy food consumption is associated with a lower risk of the metabolic syndrome and its components: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lee Mijin , Lee Hanna , Kim Jihye
Published: June 2018

A systematic review and a meta-analysis of observational studies were performed to assess the dose–response relationship between specific types of dairy foods and the risk of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components. Studies of dairy foods and the risk of the MetS and its components published up to June 2016 were searched using PubMed, EMBASE and a reference search. Random-effects models were used to estimate the pooled relative risks (RR) with 95 % CI. Finally, ten cross-sectional studies, two nested case–control studies and twenty-nine cohort studies were included for the analysis. In a dose–response analysis of cohort studies and cross-sectional studies, the pooled RR of the MetS for a one-serving/d increment of total dairy food (nine studies) and milk (six studies) consumption (200 g/d) were 0·91 (95 % CI 0·85, 0·96) and 0·87 (95 % CI 0·79, 0·95), respectively. The pooled RR of the MetS for yogurt (three studies) consumption (100 g/d) was 0·82 (95 % CI 0·73, 0·91). Total dairy food consumption was associated with lower risk of MetS components, such as hyperglycaemia, elevated blood pressure, hypertriacylglycerolaemia and low HDL- cholesterol. A one-serving/d increment of milk was related to a 12 % lower risk of abdominal obesity, and a one-serving/d increment of yogurt was associated with a 16 % lower risk of hyperglycaemia. These associations were not significantly different by study design, study location or adjustment factors. This meta-analysis showed that specific types of dairy food consumption such as milk and yogurt as well as total dairy food consumption were inversely related to risk of the MetS and its components.
HERCVLIS RITV: CAESAR AS HERCULES IN CICERO'SPRO MARCELLO
Authors: Harrison S.J.
Published: June 2018

Cicero's praise of Caesar in thePro Marcelloof September 46b.c.e.has been much discussed for its sincerity or otherwise. Here I would like to point out some unobserved literary colour which may make some contribution to the argument, namely Cicero's subtle evocation of Hercules in describing the achievements of the victorious Caesar. Such an analogy is not unlikely in the context of Roman military image-making: Sulla in 78b.c.e.and Crassus and Pompey in 70b.c.e.had earlier encouraged connections with Hercules in analogous victorious contexts, and similar comparisons are later made between the foreign conquests of Augustus and those of Hercules in both Virgil (Aen.6.801) and Horace (Carm.3.14.1–4).
‘Adam, Son of God’ (Luke 3.38): Another Jesus–Augustus Parallel in Luke's Gospel
Authors: Kochenash Michael
Published: June 2018

Reading Jesus’ conception and genealogy in the context of claims about Augustus brings clarity to the perplexing identification of Adam as God's offspring (Luke 3.38). Jesus was fathered by God's spirit (1.35), as was his ancestor Adam (through Joseph). Likewise, some claimed Augustus was fathered by Apollo and that his ancestor Aeneas (through adoption by Julius Caesar) was the offspring of Aphrodite/Venus. This comparison suggests that Jesus is comparable to Augustus and that Jesus’ kingdom of God is comparable to Augustus’ Golden Age. Moreover, the logical force of these parallels favours the inferring of Joseph's adoption of Jesus in Luke.
Actin from the apicomplexanNeospora caninum(NcACT) has different isoforms in 2D electrophoresis
Authors: Baroni Luciana , Pollo-Oliveira Letícia , Heck Albert JR , Altelaar AF Maarten , Yatsuda Ana Patrícia
Published: June 2018

Apicomplexan parasites have unconventional actins that play a central role in important cellular processes such as apicoplast replication, motility of dense granules, endocytic trafficking and force generation for motility and host cell invasion. In this study, we investigated the actin of the apicomplexanNeospora caninum– a parasite associated with infectious abortion and neonatal mortality in livestock.Neospora caninumactin was detected and identified in two bands by one-dimensional (1D) western blot and in nine spots by the 2D technique. The mass spectrometry data indicated thatN. caninumhas at least nine different actin isoforms, possibly caused by post-translational modifications. In addition, the C4 pan-actin antibody detected specifically actin inN. caninumcellular extract. ExtracellularN. caninumtachyzoites were treated with toxins that act on actin, jasplakinolide and cytochalasin D. Both substances altered the peripheric cytoplasmic localization of actin on tachyzoites. Our findings add complexity to the study of the apicomplexan actin in cellular processes, since the multiple functions of this important protein might be regulated by mechanisms involving post-translational modifications.
Accelerated alcohol use across adolescence predicts early adult symptoms of alcohol use disorder via reward-related neural function
Authors: Waller Rebecca , Murray Laura , Shaw Daniel S. , Forbes Erika E. , Hyde Luke W.
Published: June 2018

Background

Alcohol use is commonly initiated during adolescence, with earlier onset known to increase the risk for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Altered function in neural reward circuitry is thought to increase the risk for AUD. To test the hypothesis that adolescent alcohol misuse primes the brain for alcohol-related psychopathology in early adulthood, we examined whether adolescent alcohol consumption rates predicted reward responsivity in the ventral striatum (VS), and in turn, AUD symptoms in adulthood.

Methods

A total of 139 low income, racially diverse urban males reported on their alcohol use at ages 11, 12, 15, and 17; completed self-reports of personality, psychiatric interviews, and a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scan at age 20; and completed a psychiatric interview at age 22. We measured adolescent alcohol use trajectories using latent growth curve modeling and measured neural responses to monetary reward using a VS region of interest. We tested indirect effects of adolescent alcohol use on AUD symptoms at age 22 via VS reward-related reactivity at age 20.

Results

Greater acceleration in adolescent alcohol use predicted increased VS response during reward anticipation at age 20. VS reactivity to reward anticipation at age 20 predicted AUD symptoms at age 22, over and above concurrent symptoms. Accelerated adolescent alcohol use predicted AUD symptoms in early adulthood via greater VS reactivity to reward anticipation.

Conclusions

Prospective findings support a pathway through which adolescent alcohol use increases the risk for AUD in early adulthood by impacting reward-related neural functioning. These results highlight increased VS reward-related reactivity as a biomarker for AUD vulnerability.
Weapons prohibitions through immanent critique: NGOs as emancipatory and (de)securitising actors in security governance
Authors: Petrova Margarita H.
Published: June 2018

The article examines the roles of NGOs in banning cluster munitions that resulted in the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions and the campaign against landmines in the 1990s. It argues that NGOs have managed to move questions about the use of force from the closed decision-making sphere of military commanders and arms control diplomats into open public debate. Thus NGOs have simultaneously desecuritised the use of force by states, securitised certain weapons technologies, and made human beings the referent object of security. This has marked a shift from state security and strategic disarmament to human security and humanitarian disarmament, without fundamentally challenging the laws of war. However, in contrast to realist views that only militarily useless weapons ever get banned and radical critical perspectives that see new legal regimes as legitimating war and US hegemony, I argue that NGOs have engaged in immanent critique of military arguments and practices based on prevailing principles of international humanitarian law. The resulting weapon ban treaties have both restrained US policy and undermined its legitimacy. The article explores the discursive choices that underpinned the remaking of the security agenda by NGOs and their role as de/securitising actors and emancipatory agents of change.
Looking inside the world of peer review: Implications for graduate student writers
Authors: Paltridge Brian
Published: June 2018

Getting published in academic journals is increasingly important for research students in terms of gaining employment when they complete their studies and, in the future, for tenure and promotion applications once they have obtained an academic appointment. In this paper, I discuss some of the challenges that student (and early career) writers face when submitting articles to academic journals and, in particular, how they might better understand and respond to the reports they receive on their work.
Constrained generalized predictive control for obstacle avoidance in a quadcopter
Authors: Mendoza-Soto José Luis , Alvarez-Icaza Luis , Rodríguez-Cortés H.
Published: June 2018

This work proposes a strategy for position control and obstacle avoidance in a quadcopter based on constrained generalized predictive control and geometric attitude control. The approach allows real-time trajectory tracking using optimal control actions and avoids collisions with static obstacles whose position is known. An experimental validation of the proposed controller is presented.
Effects of English L2 on Norwegian L1
Authors: Sunde Anne Mette , Kristoffersen Martin
Published: June 2018

English outweighs other languages as a source for linguistic borrowing in present-day Norwegian. Most of the research on this topic has considered direct lexical loans, yet observations indicate that English is increasingly burrowing its way below the lexical surface of Norwegian – evident in the rising number of calques. This study investigates how a selection of recently observed multiword calques from English are evaluated by native Norwegian speakers. This is examined through acceptability judgements among young bilingual Norwegians (n= 83, mean age 18), and among two control groups comprising 10 bilingual adults (mean age 55) and 16 minimally bilingual seniors (mean age 75), respectively. A translation test was included to compare the judgements against production data. Based on our overall findings, we suggest that increased calquing is a sign of heightened proficiency in and exposure to the English language.
Dietary flavonoids as a potential intervention to improve redox balance in obesity and related co-morbidities: a review
Authors: Gentile Daniela , Fornai Matteo , Pellegrini Carolina , Colucci Rocchina , Blandizzi Corrado , Antonioli Luca
Published: June 2018

Obesity represents one of major health problems strongly linked to other co-morbidities, such as type 2 diabetes, CVD, gastrointestinal disorders and cognitive impairment. In this context, nutritional stress, such as an excess of fat intake, promotes a systemic oxidative stress, characterised by hyperproduction of reactive oxygen species, leading to cellular alterations that include impaired energy metabolism, altered cell signalling and cell cycle control, impaired cell transport mechanisms and overall dysfunctional biological activity. Flavonoids, dietary components of plant foods, are endowed with a wide spectrum of biological activities, including antioxidant activity, and have been proposed to reduce the risk of major chronic diseases. The present review intends to highlight and critically discuss the current scientific evidence on the possible effects of flavonoids in counteracting obesity and related co-morbidities (i.e. type 2 diabetes mellitus, CVD, gastrointestinal disorders and cognitive impairment) through a decrease in oxidative stress and related inflammatory conditions.
Macroscopic models for calcium carbonate corrosion due to sulfation. Variation of diffusion and volume expansion
Authors: NIKOLOPOULOS CHRISTOS V.
Published: June 2018

The subject of the present paper is the derivation and analysis of mathematical models for the formation of a mushy region during calcium carbonate corrosion. More specifically there is emphasis on the variation of the overall diffusion resulting from the changing shape of a single pore due to corrosion process and on the resulting volume expansion of the material as the outcome of the transformation of calcium carbonate to gypsum. These models are derived by averaging, with the use of the multiple scales method applied on microscopic moving-boundary problems. The latter problems describe the transformation of calcium carbonate into gypsum in the microscopic scale. The derived macroscopic models are solved numerically with the use of an implicit in time, finite element method. The results of the simulations for various microstructure geometries in the micro-scale and a discussion are also presented.
Mathematical model of biofilm-mediated pathogen persistence in a water distribution network with time-constant flows
Authors: AL MARZOOQ SADIQAH , ORTIZ-LUGO ALVARO , VAUGHAN BENJAMIN L.
Published: June 2018

In industrialized nations, potable water is often provided through sophisticated water distribution systems. If pathogenic bacteria are introduced into the water distribution network, the presence of a biofilm can lead to biofilm-assisted retention of the pathogens, affecting the potability of the water. To study the dynamics of planktonic and biofilm-bound pathogens within the large network of pipes in a water distribution system, we develop a network model governing the concentration of introduced pathogens within the bulk fluid and the biofilms lining the pipes. Under time-constant flow regimes within the network, we prove that the long-time behaviour of the entire network is dependent on the Lyapunov exponents for each connection in the network when viewed in isolation and the network connectivity. An efficient algorithm is developed for predicting the long-time behaviour of the pathogen population within large networks using the network's topological ordering. The algorithm's predictions are validated using numerical simulations of the full non-linear system on a range of water distribution network sizes.
A Preliminary Study of Work-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Group Therapy for Japanese Workers
Authors: Ito Daisuke , Watanabe Asuka , Takeichi Sakino , Ishihara Ayako , Yamamoto Kazuyoshi
Published: June 2018

Background: In Japan, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been introduced in the ‘Rework Programme’, but its impact on return to work (RTW) has not been fully clarified. Aims: This pilot study investigated the initial efficacy of a work-focused cognitive behavioural group therapy (WF-CBGT) for Japanese workers on sick leave due to depression. Method: Twenty-three patients on leave due to depression were recruited from a mental health clinic. WF-CBGT including behavioural activation therapy, cognitive therapy, and problem-solving therapy techniques was conducted for eight weekly 150-minute sessions. Participants completed questionnaires on depression and anxiety (Kessler-6), social adaptation (Social Adaptation Self-Evaluation Scale), and difficulty in RTW (Difficulty in Returning to Work Inventory) at pre- and post-intervention time points. Rates of re-instatement after the intervention were examined. Results: One participant dropped out, but 22 participants successfully completed the intervention. All scale scores significantly improved after intervention and, except for difficulty in RTW related to physical fitness, all effect sizes were above the moderate classification. All participants who completed the intervention succeeded in RTW. Conclusions: Results suggested the possibility that WF-CBGT may be a feasible and promising intervention for Japanese workers on leave due to depression regardless of cross-cultural differences, but that additional research examining effectiveness using controlled designs and other samples is needed. Future research should examine the efficacy of this programme more systematically to provide relevant data to aid in the continued development of an evidence-based intervention.
HOW DOES THE MACROECONOMY RESPOND TO STOCK MARKET FLUCTUATIONS? THE ROLE OF SENTIMENT
Authors: Pan Wei-Fong
Published: June 2018

This study estimates the response of macroeconomic variables to stock market fluctuations in Japan and the United States. It emphasizes the economy's reaction to stock market bubbles and crashes. To do this, I propose a new way to identify bubbles and crashes by testing price-to-fundamental ratios using the newly developed trend-filtering approach. Regardless of the measures used, both countries' macroeconomy tends to respond positively to the positive shock of stock price. Asymmetric effects of the stock market are observed. Japan's macroeconomic variables, especially investment and industrial production, are more sensitive to market crashes, while those of the United States are more sensitive to stock bubbles. Finally, I provide evidence that market sentiment can affect the economy either directly or indirectly through the stock market.
Imagery rescripting of traumatic memories for panic disorder: an exploratory study
Authors: Shibuya Takayuki , Seki Yoichi , Nagata Shinobu , Murata Tomokazu , Hiramatsu Yoichi , Yamada Fuminori , Yokoo Mizue , Ibuki Hanae , Minamitani Noriko , Tanaka Mari , Shimizu Eiji
Published: June 2018

Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is a psychological intervention designed to change the meaning of images and associated memories and reduce emotional distress. Recent studies have shown that ImRs can be successfully applied to many psychological problems and disorders; however, little has been reported on the application of ImRs for panic disorder (PD). Consequently, we explored the therapeutic effects of ImRs on patients with PD. Fifteen patients with PD received 16 individual cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) sessions weekly, including one ImRs session. Early traumatic memories associated with recurrent images in panic situations were identified and rescripted to alleviate maladaptive encapsulated beliefs. ImRs ratings (vividness and distress of the images and memories and conviction degree of encapsulated beliefs) were measured prior to and after ImRs. Self-negative contents not directly related to symptoms of panic attack were observed as common themes in the worst meaning of the image, the memory, and in the encapsulated belief. Whilst five (33%) patients had anticipatory anxiety, 10 (67%) patients had other self-negative beliefs. ImRs significantly reduced distress from images, memories and encapsulated beliefs; however, it did not change the vividness of images and memories. There was no significant correlation between the reduction in PD severity over the CBT program and the change in each ImRs rating. The results of this study are promising for certain aspects of panic disorder. However, further research is needed to overcome the limitations of this study.
Will Americans Vote for Muslims? Cultural Outgroup Antipathy, Candidate Religion, and U.S. Voting Behavior
Authors: Kalkan Kerem Ozan , Layman Geoffrey C. , Green John C.
Published: June 2018

We assess how likely Americans are to support political candidates who are Muslim, and the extent to which support for Muslim candidates is structured by “cultural outgroup antipathy”—generalized antipathy targeting cultural outgroups. We employ two survey experiments included in the 2007 and 2010 Cooperative Congressional Election Studies that juxtapose a hypothetical state legislative candidate's Muslim faith with Arab ethnicity, African American race, and both Democratic and Republican party affiliation. Identifying a candidate as Muslim significantly reduces voter support and that reduction is largest among people with higher levels of cultural outgroup antipathy. The effect is consistent regardless of whether the candidate is also identified as being Arab or African American or is just presented as a Muslim. We also find that cultural outgroup antipathy diminished electoral support for same-party Muslim candidates among Democrats but not among Republicans.
Temporal Matching Between Interoception and Exteroception
Authors: Fukushima Hirokata , Tanaka Yukari , Myowa Masako
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Recent studies on interoception emphasize the importance of multisensory integration between interoception and exteroception. One of the methods frequently applied for assessing interoceptive sensitivity is the heartbeat discrimination task, where individuals judge whether the timing of external stimuli (e.g., tones) are synchronized to their own heartbeat. Despite its extensive use in research, the neural dynamics underlying the temporal matching between interoceptive and exteroceptive stimuli in this task have remained unclear. The present study used electroencephalography (EEG) to examine the neural responses of healthy participants who performed a heartbeat discrimination task. We analyzed the differences between EEG responses to tones, which were likely to be perceived as “heartbeat-synchronous” (200 ms delayed from the R wave) or “heartbeat-asynchronous” (0 ms delayed). Possible associations of these neural differentiations with task performance were also investigated. Compared with the responses to heartbeat-asynchronous tones, heartbeat-synchronous tones caused a relative decrease in early gamma-band EEG response and an increase in later P2 event-related potential (ERP) amplitude. Condition differences in the EEG/ERP measures were not significantly correlated with the behavioral measures. The mechanisms underlying the observed neural responses and the possibility of electrophysiological measurement of interoceptive sensitivity are discussed in terms of two perspectives: the predictive coding framework and the cardiac-phase-dependent baroreceptor function.
We Are the “Human Family”
Authors: Sparkman David J. , Eidelman Scott
Published: June 2018

Abstract. This research investigated whether multicultural experiences impact identification with humanity within a broader prejudice-reduction framework. Results suggest two components of multicultural experiences – experiences with cultural elements and contact with cultural members – were negatively associated with ethnic (Study 1) and immigrant prejudice (Studies 2 and 3) through stronger identification with humanity. When controlling for their overlapping variance, overall findings suggest experiences with cultural elements and contact with cultural members both uniquely predicted less prejudice through identification with humanity. In Study 3, frequent, positive intercultural contact predicted less prejudice and greater concern for human rights through identification with humanity. Meta-analytic evidence suggests the negative association between experiences with cultural elements and prejudice (r = −.30) was stronger than for contact (r = −.20).
The Effects of Counterfactual Attacks on the Morality and Leadership of Different Professionals
Authors: Bertolotti Mauro , Catellani Patrizia
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Past research has offered contrasting results regarding the effects of attacks on social judgments. In three experiments, we investigated the effects of counterfactual (“If only…”) and non-counterfactual attacks on the morality versus leadership of politicians versus entrepreneurs. First, participants rated morality as the most desirable, but least typical dimension of politicians, and leadership as the most desirable and most typical dimension of entrepreneurs (Study 1). Then, counterfactual attacks led to poorer evaluation of the attacked target and better evaluation of the attacking source as compared to non-counterfactual attacks, especially when counterfactuals were focused on the most desirable dimension for the professional category of the attacked target (Study 2). Similar results emerged when the typicality of the attacked dimension was manipulated (Study 3). Discussion focuses on the higher success of attacks on desirable personality dimensions and of counterfactual attacks as compared to other attacks.
Ethnic Diversity and Support for Populist Parties
Authors: Van Assche Jasper , Dhont Kristof , Van Hiel Alain , Roets Arne
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Putnam’s (2007) constrict claim states that ethnic diversity has serious consequences for social cohesion, making people distrustful and leery. The present contribution extends this claim by including political cynicism and trust as side effects of diversity. Moreover, we nuance this claim by considering citizens’ social-ideological attitudes as moderators of diversity effects. Using a Dutch nationally stratified sample (N = 628), we showed that both objective and perceived diversity were associated with more political cynicism and less trust, but only for those high in right-wing attitudes (i.e., social dominance orientation and particularly authoritarianism). Furthermore, only political cynicism was a unique predictor of greater populist party support. Implications for the ongoing debates on the rise in diversity and populist parties are discussed.
Seasonal and Regional Patterns of Future Temperature Extremes: High‐Resolution Dynamic Downscaling Over a Complex Terrain
Authors: El‐Samra R. , Bou‐Zeid E. , Bangalath H. K. , Stenchikov G. , El‐Fadel M.
Published: June 2018

The combined impacts of projected/simulated climate change and variability on temperature extremes over a complex topographical terrain along the eastern Mediterranean are assessed in this study. High‐resolution dynamical temperature downscaling is conducted for the past (2008) and the near future (until 2050) during eight extreme hot and dry years under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5). The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model is used for the downscaling process with two nested resolutions of 9 and 3 km, forced by the global High‐Resolution Atmospheric Model (HiRAM) at a resolution of 25 km. Climate indices resultant from daily simulated temperature illustrate considerable changes in daily maximum summer and minimum winter temperature extremes during the future simulated years in comparison with the historic 2008 selected as reference and control period. While average yearly temperatures increase in both scenarios and most regions as expected, the seasonal variability is forecasted to intensify even more significantly resulting in colder winter and warmer summer conditions. Moreover, the interseasonal variability was most pronounced in the years with the highest averaged temperatures. A notable increase in the annual incidence of hot nights and heat wave events relative to 2008 conditions is also expected. The orographic complexity resulted in significant regional differences, with the most affected regions experiencing more than a doubling of extreme indices during the hottest and driest years of near‐future decades. This strong spatial variability highlights the need for high‐resolution downscaling.
Dusty Rocks in Gale Crater: Assessing Areal Coverage and Separating Dust and Rock Contributions in APXS Analyses
Authors: Schmidt Mariek E. , Perrett Glynis M. , Bray Samantha L. , Bradley Nicholas J. , Lee Rebekka E. , Berger Jeff A. , Campbell John L. , Ly Cathy , Squyres Steven W. , Tesselaar Dustin
Published: June 2018

A thin, patchy layer of airfall dust covers rock surfaces examined by the Mars Science Lab rover Curiosity and complicates interpretation of textures in Mars Hand Lens Imager images and compositions determined by Alpha Particle X‐ray Spectrometer (APXS). Using three image processing methods, we estimate dust coverages for Mars Hand Lens Imager images of APXS targets to Sol 1512. Dust coverages of as is rock targets range from 6% to 77% (±5% to 10% estimated error). Targets brushed by the Dust Removal Tool range to lower coverages than as is targets, but quality depends on surface type; brushed mudstones have the narrowest range and lowest coverages (11–25%), while sandstones vary, ranging to higher coverages (12–58%). Groups of rocks with similar compositions (APXS classes) can have strong correlations between dust coverage and SO3/Cl (up to r = 0.985). Dust can also strongly affect the lightest elements measured (Na to Ca). By comparing paired as is and Dust Removal Tool analyses, using the determined dust coverages, and finding a best fit dust thickness (generally ~10 μm), we model relative contributions of the dust and bedrock to extrapolate dust‐free compositions for homogeneous APXS classes. The dust is basaltic with high S and Cl. Dust‐free rocks have higher SiO2 and Na2O (up to 6.5 wt% and 0.5 wt% higher, respectively) and lower SO3 and CaO (up to 5.5 wt% and 1.3 wt% lower, respectively) than dusty equivalents. Dust most influences compositions that are very different from average Mars, including the alkali‐rich, MgO‐poor Jake M class.
Long-term in situ permafrost thaw effects on bacterial communities and potential aerobic respiration
Authors: Monteux Sylvain , Weedon James T , Blume-Werry Gesche , Gavazov Konstantin , Jassey Vincent E J , Johansson Margareta , Keuper Frida , Olid Carolina , Dorrepaal Ellen
Published: June 2018

The decomposition of large stocks of soil organic carbon in thawing permafrost might depend on more than climate change-induced temperature increases: indirect effects of thawing via altered bacterial community structure (BCS) or rooting patterns are largely unexplored. We used a 10-year in situ permafrost thaw experiment and aerobic incubations to investigate alterations in BCS and potential respiration at different depths, and the extent to which they are related with each other and with root density. Active layer and permafrost BCS strongly differed, and the BCS in formerly frozen soils (below the natural thawfront) converged under induced deep thaw to strongly resemble the active layer BCS, possibly as a result of colonization by overlying microorganisms. Overall, respiration rates decreased with depth and soils showed lower potential respiration when subjected to deeper thaw, which we attributed to gradual labile carbon pool depletion. Despite deeper rooting under induced deep thaw, root density measurements did not improve soil chemistry-based models of potential respiration. However, BCS explained an additional unique portion of variation in respiration, particularly when accounting for differences in organic matter content. Our results suggest that by measuring bacterial community composition, we can improve both our understanding and the modeling of the permafrost carbon feedback.
Inter-individual variability in copepod microbiomes reveals bacterial networks linked to host physiology
Authors: Datta Manoshi S , Almada Amalia A , Baumgartner Mark F , Mincer Tracy J , Tarrant Ann M , Polz Martin F
Published: June 2018

Copepods harbor diverse bacterial communities, which collectively carry out key biogeochemical transformations in the ocean. However, bulk copepod sampling averages over the variability in their associated bacterial communities, thereby limiting our understanding of the nature and specificity of copepod–bacteria associations. Here, we characterize the bacterial communities associated with nearly 200 individual Calanus finmarchicus copepods transitioning from active growth to diapause. We find that all individual copepods sampled share a small set of “core” operational taxonomic units (OTUs), a subset of which have also been found associated with other marine copepod species in different geographic locations. However, most OTUs are patchily distributed across individual copepods, thereby driving community differences across individuals. Among patchily distributed OTUs, we identified groups of OTUs correlated with common ecological drivers. For instance, a group of OTUs positively correlated with recent copepod feeding served to differentiate largely active growing copepods from those entering diapause. Together, our results underscore the power of individual-level sampling for understanding host–microbiome relationships.
Syntrophic growth with direct interspecies electron transfer between pili-free Geobacter species
Authors: Liu Xing , Zhuo Shiyan , Rensing Christopher , Zhou Shungui
Published: June 2018

Direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) may prevail in microbial communities that show methanogenesis and anaerobic methane oxidation and can be an electron source to support anaerobic photosynthesis. Previous mutagenic studies on cocultures of defined Geobacter species indicate that both conductive pili and extracellular cytochromes are essential for DIET. However, the actual functional role of the pili in DIET is uncertain, as the pilus mutation strategy used in these studies affected the extracellular cytochrome profile. Here we repressed the function of pili by deleting the pilus polymerization motor PilB in both Geobacter species. The PilB mutation inhibited the pilus assembly but did not alter the pattern of extracellular cytochromes. We report that the two pilus-free Geobacter species can form aggregates and grow syntrophically with DIET. The results demonstrate that the Gmet_2896 cytochrome of Geobacter metallireducens plays a key role in DIET and that conductive pili are not necessary to facilitate DIET in cocultures of Geobacter species, and they suggest cytochromes by themselves can meditate DIET, deepening the understanding of DIET.
Spatio-temporal variability of processes across Antarctic ice-bed–ocean interfaces
Authors: Colleoni Florence , De Santis Laura , Siddoway Christine S. , Bergamasco Andrea , Golledge Nicholas R. , Lohmann Gerrit , Passchier Sandra , Siegert Martin J.
Published: June 2018

Understanding how the Antarctic ice sheet will respond to global warming relies on knowledge of how it has behaved in the past. The use of numerical models, the only means to quantitatively predict the future, is hindered by limitations to topographic data both now and in the past, and in knowledge of how subsurface oceanic, glaciological and hydrological processes interact. Incorporating the variety and interplay of such processes, operating at multiple spatio-temporal scales, is critical to modeling the Antarctic’s system evolution and requires direct observations in challenging locations. As these processes do not observe disciplinary boundaries neither should our future research.
A photoelectrochemical platform for the capture and release of rare single cells
Authors: Parker Stephen G. , Yang Ying , Ciampi Simone , Gupta Bakul , Kimpton Kathleen , Mansfeld Friederike M. , Kavallaris Maria , Gaus Katharina , Gooding J. Justin
Published: June 2018

For many normal and aberrant cell behaviours, it is important to understand the origin of cellular heterogeneity. Although powerful methods for studying cell heterogeneity have emerged, they are more suitable for common rather than rare cells. Exploring the heterogeneity of rare single cells is challenging because these rare cells must be first pre-concentrated and undergo analysis prior to classification and expansion. Here, a versatile capture & release platform consisting of an antibody-modified and electrochemically cleavable semiconducting silicon surface for release of individual cells of interest is presented. The captured cells can be interrogated microscopically and tested for drug responsiveness prior to release and recovery. The capture & release strategy was applied to identify rare tumour cells from whole blood, monitor the uptake of, and response to, doxorubicin and subsequently select cells for single-cell gene expression based on their response to the doxorubicin.
Phosphorylation of the RSRSP stretch is critical for splicing regulation by RNA-Binding Motif Protein 20 (RBM20) through nuclear localization
Authors: Murayama Rie , Kimura-Asami Mariko , Togo-Ohno Marina , Yamasaki-Kato Yumiko , Naruse Taeko K. , Yamamoto Takeshi , Hayashi Takeharu , Ai Tomohiko , Spoonamore Katherine G. , Kovacs Richard J. , Vatta Matteo , Iizuka Mai , Saito Masumi , Wani Shotaro , Hiraoka Yuichi , Kimura Akinori , Kuroyanagi Hidehito
Published: June 2018

RBM20 is a major regulator of heart-specific alternative pre-mRNA splicing of TTN encoding a giant sarcomeric protein titin. Mutation in RBM20 is linked to autosomal-dominant familial dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), yet most of the RBM20 missense mutations in familial and sporadic cases were mapped to an RSRSP stretch in an arginine/serine-rich region of which function remains unknown. In the present study, we identified an R634W missense mutation within the stretch and a G1031X nonsense mutation in cohorts of DCM patients. We demonstrate that the two serine residues in the RSRSP stretch are constitutively phosphorylated and mutations in the stretch disturb nuclear localization of RBM20. Rbm20
S637A
knock-in mouse mimicking an S635A mutation reported in a familial case showed a remarkable effect on titin isoform expression like in a patient carrying the mutation. These results revealed the function of the RSRSP stretch as a critical part of a nuclear localization signal and offer the Rbm20
S637A
mouse as a good model for in vivo study.
Quantifying Arctic lower stratospheric ozone sources in winter and spring
Authors: Pan Chen , Zhu Bin , Gao Jinhui , Hou Xuewei , Kang Hanqing , Wang Dongdong
Published: June 2018

The dynamical and chemical characteristics of unusually low Arctic ozone events in 2005 and 2011 have been well-studied. However, the quantitative identification of Arctic ozone sources is lacking. Here, we use tagged ozone tracers in a numerical simulation to quantify the contributions to Arctic lower stratospheric ozone (ARCLS_O3) at diverse latitudes in winter and spring from 2005–2011. We demonstrate that the northern mid-latitudinal stratosphere steadily contributes approximately half of ARCLS_O3. The absolute contributions during February have evident variations, which are smaller in cold years (151.3 ± 7.0 Dobson units (DU) in 2005 and 139.0 ± 7.4 DU in 2011) and greater in warm years (182.6 ± 7.3 DU in 2006 and 164.6 ± 7.4 DU in 2009). The tropical stratosphere is also an important source. During February, its absolute contributions are 66.5 ± 11.5 DU (2005), 73.1 ± 4.7 DU (2011), 146.0 ± 9.0 DU (2006), and 153.7 ± 7.0 DU (2009). Before and after stratospheric warming, variations in the tropical components of ARCLS_O3 (51.8 DU in 2006 and 77.0 DU in 2009) are significantly larger than those in the mid-latitudinal components (17.6 DU in 2006 and 18.1 DU in 2009). These results imply that although the mid-latitudinal components of ARCLS_O3 are larger, the tropical components control stratospheric temperature-induced ARCLS_O3 anomalies in winter and spring.
Author Correction: Screening and identification of critical transcription factors involved in the protection of cardiomyocytes against hydrogen peroxide-induced damage by Yixin-shu
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Geng Ya , Guo Feifei , Zhang Fangbo , Liu Mingwei , Song Lei , Ma Yuexiang , Li Defeng , Zhang Yi , Xu Haiyu , Yang Hongjun
Published: June 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
A potential new role for myofibroblasts in remodeling of sub-rupture fatigue tendon injuries by exercise
Authors: Bell Rebecca , Gendron N. Remi , Anderson Matthew , Flatow Evan L. , Andarawis-Puri Nelly
Published: June 2018

Tendons are ineffective at repairing sub-rupture fatigue injuries. Accordingly, we evaluated whether an exercise protocol that we have previously found to decrease structural damage kinks in fatigue damaged tendons, leads to improvement in mechanical properties. We hypothesized that exercise that promotes repair of fatigue damage will decrease apoptosis and increase the population of myofibroblasts. Rat patellar tendons underwent in vivo fatigue loading for 500 or 7200 cycles. Animals resumed cage activity for 2-weeks, then either remained cage active or began treadmill running until sacrifice at 4- or 10-weeks post-fatigue loading. Exercise following fatigue damage increased the stiffness back towards naïve levels, decreased apoptosis and increased the population of myofibroblasts. Next, proteins associated with inhibition of apoptosis (Collagen VI) or activation of myofibroblast (pSmad 2/3, fibrillin, integrin subunits αV and α5) were evaluated. Data suggests that collagen VI may not be integral to inhibition of apoptosis in this context. Exercise increased pSmad 2/3 and fibrillin in the insertion region for the 7200-cycles group. In addition, exercise decreased integrin αV and increased integrin α5 in fatigue damaged tendons. Data suggests that a decrease in apoptosis and an increase in population of myofibroblasts may be integral to remodeling of fatigue damaged tendons.
Multimodality cellular and molecular imaging of concomitant tumour enhancement in a syngeneic mouse model of breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Parkins Katie M. , Dubois Veronica P. , Hamilton Amanda M. , Makela Ashley V. , Ronald John A. , Foster Paula J.
Published: June 2018

The mechanisms that influence metastatic growth rates are poorly understood. One mechanism of interest known as concomitant tumour resistance (CTR) can be defined as the inhibition of metastasis by existing tumour mass. Conversely, the presence of a primary tumour has also been shown to increase metastatic outgrowth, termed concomitant tumour enhancement (CTE). The majority of studies evaluating CTR/CTE in preclinical models have relied on endpoint histological evaluation of tumour burden. The goal of this research was to use conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cellular MRI, and bioluminescence imaging to study the impact of a primary tumour on the development of brain metastases in a syngeneic mouse model. Here, we report that the presence of a 4T1 primary tumour significantly enhances total brain tumour burden in Balb/C mice. Using in vivo BLI/MRI we could determine this was not related to differences in initial arrest or clearance of viable cells in the brain, which suggests that the presence of a primary tumour can increase the proliferative growth of brain metastases in this model. The continued application of our longitudinal cellular and molecular imaging tools will yield a better understanding of the mechanism(s) by which this physiological inhibition (CTR) and/or enhancement (CTE) occurs.
UNC-16/JIP3 and UNC-76/FEZ1 limit the density of mitochondria in C. elegans neurons by maintaining the balance of anterograde and retrograde mitochondrial transport
Authors: Sure Guruprasada Reddy , Chatterjee Anusheela , Mishra Nikhil , Sabharwal Vidur , Devireddy Swathi , Awasthi Anjali , Mohan Swetha , Koushika Sandhya P.
Published: June 2018

We investigate the role of axonal transport in regulating neuronal mitochondrial density. We show that the density of mitochondria in the touch receptor neuron (TRN) of adult Caenorhabditis elegans is constant. Mitochondrial density and transport are controlled both by the Kinesin heavy chain and the Dynein-Dynactin complex. However, unlike in other models, the presence of mitochondria in C. elegans TRNs depends on a Kinesin light chain as well. Mutants in the three C. elegans miro genes do not alter mitochondrial density in the TRNs. Mutants in the Kinesin-1 associated proteins, UNC-16/JIP3 and UNC-76/FEZ1, show increased mitochondrial density and also have elevated levels of both the Kinesin Heavy and Light Chains in neurons. Genetic analyses suggest that, the increased mitochondrial density at the distal end of the neuronal process in unc-16 and unc-76 depends partly on Dynein. We observe a net anterograde bias in the ratio of anterograde to retrograde mitochondrial flux in the neuronal processes of unc-16 and unc-76, likely due to both increased Kinesin-1 and decreased Dynein in the neuronal processes. Our study shows that UNC-16 and UNC-76 indirectly limit mitochondrial density in the neuronal process by maintaining a balance in anterograde and retrograde mitochondrial axonal transport.
Pre-clinical evaluation of EC1456, a folate-tubulysin anti-cancer therapeutic
Authors: Reddy Joseph A. , Dorton Ryan , Bloomfield Alicia , Nelson Melissa , Dircksen Christina , Vetzel Marilynn , Kleindl Paul , Santhapuram Hari , Vlahov Iontcho R. , Leamon Christopher P.
Published: June 2018

EC1456 is a folate-tubulysin conjugate constructed with an all-D enantiomeric spacer/linker configuration. When tested against folate receptor (FR)-positive cells, EC1456 demonstrated dose-responsive activity with an approximate 1000-fold level of specificity. Treatment of nude mice bearing FR-positive human xenografts (as large as 800 mm3) with non-toxic doses of EC1456 led to cures in 100% of the mice. Combinations of low dose EC1456 with standard of care agents such as platins, taxanes, topotecan and bevacizumab, safely and significantly augmented the growth inhibitory effects of these commonly used agents. When tested against FR-positive human tumor xenograft models having confirmed resistance to a folate-vinca alkaloid (vintafolide), cisplatin or paclitaxel, EC1456 was found to generate partial to curative responses. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that EC1456 has significant anti-proliferative activity against FR-positive tumors, including models which were anticancer drug resistant, thereby justifying a Phase 1 trial of this agent for the treatment of advanced human cancers.
Development of a radionuclide-labeled monoclonal anti-CD55 antibody with theranostic potential in pleural metastatic lung cancer
Authors: Dho So Hee , Kim Soo Yong , Chung Chaeuk , Cho Eun Ha , Lee So-Young , Kim Ji Young , Kim Lark Kyun , Min Sung-Won , Lee Jichul , Jung Sung Hee , Lim Jae Cheong
Published: June 2018

Decay-accelerating factor (CD55 or DAF) inhibits complement-dependent cytotoxicity. We determined that CD55 is overexpressed in 76.47% of human non-small cell lung cancer tissue specimens. We therefore developed a lutetium-177-labeled chimeric monoclonal antibody against CD55. CD55-specific single-chain variable fragment (scFv) was selected from a naïve chicken scFv phage-display library, converted to IgG, and radiolabeled with lutetium-177 to generate a 177Lu-anti-CD55 antibody. We then charaterized the biodistribution of this antibody in a mouse model of pleural metastatic lung cancer. The 177Lu-anti-CD55 antibody was primarily retained in tumor tissue rather than normal tissue. Treatment of the mice with 177Lu-anti-CD55 reduced the growth of lung tumors and improved median survival in vivo by two-fold compared to controls. Finally, 177Lu-anti-CD55 also enhanced the antitumor activity of cisplatin both in vitro and in vivo. These data suggest 177Lu-anti-CD55 antibody is a promising theranostic agent for pleural metastatic lung cancer.