bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review and comparison of Apriori algorithm implementations on Hadoop-MapReduce and Spark
Authors: Castro Eduardo P. S. , Maia Thiago D. , Pereira Marluce R. , Esmin Ahmed A. A. , Pereira Denilson A.
Published: July 2018

Several Apriori algorithm implementations for mining association rules have been proposed in the literature using the Hadoop-MapReduce framework and, more recently, Spark. However, none of the works have made a detailed assessment of its performance, for example, comparing it with other implementations in various characteristics of data sets. In this work, we present a review of the main algorithms proposed for Hadoop-MapReduce and compared their implementations in a single environment under several different situations. Moreover, these algorithms had their implementations adapted to Spark, and also compared under the same circumstances. Based on the results of the experiments, we present a framework for recommending the Apriori implementation most appropriate for solving a given problem, according to the data set characteristics and minimum required support. The results show that Spark implementations overcome Hadoop-MapReduce implementations at runtime in most experiments. However, there is no single implementation that is the best in all the evaluated situations.
Hybrid approach for disconnected pulmonary arteries: never lose a pulmonary artery again!
Authors: Butera Gianfranco , Giusti Giuliano , Pomè Giuseppe
Published: July 2018

Disconnection of a pulmonary artery needs early surgical treatment in order to support the growth of the vessel. However, owing to the high rate of re-stenosis after traditional surgical reconstruction, we developed a hybrid approach involving the creation of pulmonary artery continuity by using autologous or heterologous tissue supported by stent implantation.
ESTATE TAXATION AND HUMAN CAPITAL WITH INFORMATION EXTERNALITIES
Authors: Hedlund Aaron
Published: July 2018

This paper investigates the effects of estate taxation when firms cannot directly observe worker skill levels. Imperfect labor market signaling gives rise to an information externality that causes workers to free-ride off of others’ human capital acquisition. Inherited wealth exacerbates the information externality because risk averse workers with larger inheritances exert less effort to acquire skills. By reducing these inheritances, an estate tax induces greater skill acquisition effort and increases the number of skilled workers. In a quantitative model with employer learning and capital accumulation, the optimal estate tax is significantly above zero, increases wages and output, and benefits a large majority of households.
Spanish adaptation and validation of the Child Food Security Survey Module (CFSSM-S)
Authors: Shankar-Krishnan Nithya , Penelo Eva , Fornieles Deu Albert , Sánchez-Carracedo David
Published: July 2018

Objective

The present study aimed to assess the: (i) internal structure of the Spanish Child Food Security Survey Module (CFSSM-S) with exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA and CFA); (ii) measurement invariance by gender, grade, weight status, socio-economic status (SES) and family affluence; and (iii) relationships with these external variables.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted. The CFSSM-S and other tools were employed to assess food insecurity, weight status, SES and family affluence, respectively.

Setting

A secondary school (grades 7–10) in the city of Terrassa in Catalonia, Spain.

Subjects

Participants included adolescent boys and girls (n426) aged 12–17 years.

Results

The cross-validation design with EFA and CFA captured a single factor, ‘food insecurity’. The goodness-of-fit for the one-factor model with CFA (root-mean-square error of approximation=0·038, comparative fit index=0·984, Tucker–Lewis index=0·979) and internal consistency (ω=0·95) were excellent. The measurement invariance indicated that CFSSM-S could be used across genders, grades, weight status, SES and family affluence. Only mean differences for SES and family affluence were found which showed a linear trend, indicating higher CFSSM-S scores for participants with lower SES and family affluence. Of participants, 1·9 % experienced very low food security, 16·4 % low food security and 81·7 % were food secure.

Conclusions

The CFSSM-S is the first validated instrument to assess food insecurity with psychometric guarantees in Spanish adolescents. Researchers and health practitioners in Spain could use this self-reported questionnaire to gain more information about adolescent health in relation to food insecurity.
Clinical relevance and validity of tools to predict infant, childhood and adulthood obesity: a systematic review
Authors: Canfell Oliver J , Littlewood Robyn , Wright Olivia RL , Walker Jacqueline L
Published: July 2018

Objective

To determine the global availability of a multicomponent tool predicting overweight/obesity in infancy, childhood, adolescence or adulthood; and to compare their predictive validity and clinical relevance.

Design/Setting

The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed. The databases PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science and PsycINFO were searched. Additional articles were identified via reference lists of included articles. Risk of bias was assessed using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Quality Criteria Checklist. The National Health and Medical Research Council’s Levels of Evidence hierarchy was used to assess quality of evidence. Predictive performance was evaluated using the ABCD framework.

Subjects

Eligible studies: tool could be administered at any life stage; quantified the risk of overweight/obesity onset; used more than one predictor variable; and reported appropriate prediction statistical outcomes.

Results

Of the initial 4490 articles identified, twelve articles (describing twelve tools) were included. Most tools aimed to predict overweight and/or obesity within childhood (age 2–12 years). Predictive accuracy of tools was consistently adequate; however, the predictive validity of most tools was questioned secondary to poor methodology and statistical reporting. Globally, five tools were developed for dissemination into clinical practice, but no tools were tested within a clinical setting.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, a clinically relevant and highly predictive overweight/obesity prediction tool is yet to be developed. Clinicians can, however, act now to identify the strongest predictors of future overweight/obesity. Further research is necessary to optimise the predictive strength and clinical applicability of such a tool.
Angehörige oder Zugehörige? – Versuch einer Begriffsanalyse
Authors: Bauernschmidt Dorothee , Dorschner Stephan
Published: July 2018

Zusammenfassung.Hintergrund: Gesellschaftliche Wandlungsprozesse nehmen Einfluss auf das soziale Zusammenleben und führen zur Pluralisierung familialer Lebensformen, zu veränderten Verwandtschaftsbeziehungen und zur zunehmenden Bedeutung freundschaftlicher Beziehungen. Dies zeigt sich auch bei eintretenden Pflegebedarfen im familialen Kontext und die pflegeprofessionelle Wahrnehmung dieser Entwicklungen findet ihre sprachliche Entsprechung in Begriffen wie ’Angehörige’ oder ’Zugehörige’. Im vorliegenden Beitrag soll diesen und weiteren Begrifflichkeiten, die in der pflegerischen Kommunikation verwendet werden, nachgegangen werden. Ziel: Das Ziel ist, die in der deutschsprachigen Pflegeliteratur verwendeten Benennungen für Personen des nahen sozialen Umfeldes von pflegeempfangenden Menschen begriffsanalytisch aufzuarbeiten. Methoden: Im Rahmen einer explizierenden Inhaltsanalyse werden etymologische, juristische und sozialwissenschaftliche Definitionen dieser Benennungen dem pflegeprofessionellen Verständnis gegenübergestellt. Ergebnisse: Es zeigt sich eine begriffliche Vielfalt, die zudem durch eine Heterogenität im Begriffsverständnis gekennzeichnet ist, wodurch die Eignung einiger Benennungen für die pflegerische Kommunikation infrage gestellt wird. Schlussfolgerungen: Basierend auf diesen Befunden wird eine Definition des Begriffes ’Angehörige’ zur Diskussion gestellt. Dies stellt den Versuch dar, einen Beitrag zu einem einheitlicheren innerprofessionellen Verständnis des Angehörigenbegriffes zu leisten.
Ethische Werte und Prinzipien – Damals und heute
Authors: Hahn Birgit
Published: July 2018

Zusammenfassung. Jedes Fürsorgehandeln für vulnerable und abhängige Menschen erfordert eine ethische Orientierung. Aktuell hat in der gesellschaftlichen Auseinandersetzung und Rechtsprechung die persönliche Autonomie des einzelnen, das sogenannte Selbstbestimmungsrecht, einen besonders hohen Platz auf der Werteskala eingenommen. Andere ethische Werte wie Fürsorge, die Achtung von Menschenwürde oder gerechtes Handeln sind ebenfalls zu nennen, wenn auch häufig nicht so prominent. Diese Werte waren nicht immer „en vogue“. In vergangenen Zeiten wurden andere ethische Werte bemüht, um das Handeln zu rechtfertigen – auch in der Zeit des Nationalsozialismus. Es zeigt, dass nicht nur die ethischen Fragen im Einzelfall, sondern auch die angewendeten ethischen Prinzipien immer wieder reflektiert werden müssen.
Die Rolle der Pflegeexpertin APN in der Psychiatrie
Authors: Zehnder Ursina , Kurz Mirjam , Laimbacher Sabrina
Published: July 2018

Zusammenfassung. Am „Dreiländerkongress Pflege in der Psychiatrie 2015“ wurde die Rolle der Pflegeexpertin APN (Advanced Practice Nurse) in der Psychiatrie im Rahmen eines Workshops diskutiert, vor Ort von einer Künstlerin mittels Skizzen visualisiert und im Anschluss zu einem gesamten Stimmungsbild verdichtet. Das Bild dient als Diskussionsgrundlage für die weitere Kommunikation und Entwicklung der Rolle.
Quantifying the Impact of Subsurface‐Land Surface Physical Processes on the Predictive Skill of Subseasonal Mesoscale Atmospheric Simulations
Authors: Sulis M. , Keune J. , Shrestha P. , Simmer C. , Kollet S. J.
Published: July 2018

Integrated terrestrial system modeling platforms, which simulate the 3‐D flow of water both in the subsurface and the atmosphere, are expected to improve the realism of predictions through a more detailed physics‐based representation of hydrometeorological processes and feedbacks. We test this expectation by evaluating simulation results from different configurations of an atmospheric model with increasing complexity in the representation of land surface and subsurface physical processes. The evaluation is performed using observations during the (HD(CP)2) Observational Prototype Experiment field campaign in April–May 2013 over western Germany. The augmented model physics do not improve the prediction of daily cumulative precipitation and minimum temperature during this period. Moreover, a cold bias is introduced in the simulated daily maximum temperature, which decreases the performance of the atmospheric model with respect to its standard configuration. The decreased performance in the maximum temperature is traced in part to a higher simulated soil moisture, which shifts surface flux partitioning toward higher latent and lower sensible heat fluxes. The better reproduced air temperature profiles simulated by the standard atmospheric model comes, however, with an overestimated heat flux at the land surface caused by a warm bias in the simulated soil temperature. Simulated atmospheric states do not correlate significantly with differences in soil moisture and temperature; thus, different turbulent flux parameterizations dominate the propagation of the subsurface signal into the atmosphere. The strong influence of the lateral synoptic forcings on the results suggests, however, the need for further investigations encompassing different weather situations or regions with stronger land‐atmosphere coupling conditions.
Sediment Characteristics and Methane Ebullition in Three Subarctic Lakes
Authors: Wik Martin , Johnson Joel E. , Crill Patrick M. , DeStasio Joel P. , Erickson Lance , Halloran Madison J. , Fahnestock M. Florencia , Crawford Maurice K. , Phillips Stephen C. , Varner Ruth K.
Published: July 2018

Ebullition (bubbling) from climate‐sensitive northern lakes remains an unconstrained source of atmospheric methane (CH4). Although the focus of many recent studies, ebullition is rarely linked to the physical characteristics of lakes. In this study we analyze the sediments of subarctic postglacial lakes and investigate how sediment properties relate to the large spatial variation in CH4 bubble flux, quantified over multiple years using bubble traps. The results show that the sediments from our lakes are rich in total organic carbon, containing 37 kg/m3 on average. This number is roughly 40% higher than the average for yedoma deposits, which have been identified as high CH4 emitters. However, the quantity of total organic carbon is not a useful indicator of high emissions from the study lakes. Neither is the amount of CH4 in the sediment a reliable measure of ebullition potential. Instead, our data point to coarse detritus, partly from buried submerged aquatic vegetation and redeposited peat as spatial controls on fluxes, often in combination with previously established effects of incoming solar radiation and water depth. The results once again highlight the climate sensitivity of northern lakes, indicating that biological responses to warmer waters and increased energy input and heating of organic sediments during longer ice‐free seasons can substantially alter future CH4 emissions.
Observations of Spatial Variations in O/N2 During an Auroral Substorm Using the Multichannel Downlooking Camera on the VISIONS Rocket
Authors: Hecht J. H. , Clemmons J. H. , Conde M. G. , Hampton D. L. , Michell R. G. , Rowland D. E. , Pfaff R. F. , Walterscheid R. L.
Published: July 2018

At 0821 UT on 7 February 2013, during an auroral substorm, the NASA VISIONS rocket was launched northward from Poker Flat Research Range on a flight to approximately 750‐km altitude that terminated in the Arctic Ocean. A subpayload jettisoned on the up leg carried a multichannel optical imager that looked downward and observed the auroral emission through four narrow passband filters. Three of the channels had sufficiently strong signal to allow a measure of the time evolution of the horizontal extent of the electron aurora and changes in the ratio of the column O to the column N2. These data revealed rather rapid changes in this measure of composition over an area larger than would be expected from the changes expected from particle and Joule heating. Although such rapid large changes have been observed previously, and Christensen et al. (1997, https://doi.org/10.1029/97JA01800) had hypothesized that they were due to enhanced turbulent diffusion, this imaging experiment is the first to show their evolution over a large area. On the down leg the camera was able to see the vertical spatial extent of the auroral emission which is consistent with the decrease in O/N2 seen in the downlooking data. The change in this ratio with altitude suggests the deposition of an additional number of low‐energy electrons that would cause a larger decrease in that ratio at higher altitudes.
Time Variations in Ocean Bottom Pressure from a Few Hours to Many Years: In Situ Data, Numerical Models, and GRACE Satellite Gravimetry
Authors: Poropat L. , Dobslaw H. , Zhang L. , Macrander A. , Boebel O. , Thomas M.
Published: July 2018

In situ ocean bottom pressure (OBP) obtained from 154 different locations irregularly scattered over the globe is carefully processed to isolate signals related to the ocean general circulation and large‐scale sea level changes. Comparison against a global numerical ocean model experiment indicates poor correspondence for periods below 24 hr, possibly related to residual tidal signals and small timing errors in the atmospheric forcing applied to the ocean model. Correspondence increases rapidly for periods between 3 and 10 days, where wind‐driven dynamics are already well understood and consequently well implemented into numerical models. Coherence decreases again for periods around 30 days and longer, where processes not implemented into ocean general circulation models as barystatic sea level changes become more important. Correspondence between in situ data and satellite‐based OBP as obtained from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) German Research Centre for Geosciences RL05a gravity fields critically depends on the postprocessing of Level‐2 Stokes coefficients that also includes the selection of appropriate averaging regions for the GRACE‐based mass anomalies. The assessment of other available GRACE Level‐2 products indicates even better fit of more recent solutions as ITSG‐Grace2016 and the Center for Space Research and Jet Propulsion Laboratory RL05 mascons. In view of the strong high‐frequency component of OBP, however, a higher temporal resolution of the oceanic GRACE products would be rather advantageous.
The Uncertainty of Penman‐Monteith Method and the Energy Balance Closure Problem
Authors: Hao Xingming , Zhang Shuhua , Li Weihong , Duan Weili , Fang Gonghuan , Zhang Ying , Guo Bin
Published: July 2018

The Penman‐Monteith (PM) method is considered the most accurate method for estimating reference crop evapotranspiration (ET0). However, the method has obvious flaws in energy balance closure. In this study, the changing trends between latent heat flux of ET0 (LEp) and surface net radiation (Rn) in China were analyzed based on observational data from 800 meteorological stations. The results showed that the multiyear average ratio of LEp/Rn was highest in the warm temperate zone and was lowest in the subfrigid zone of the Tibetan Plateau. Correspondingly, the values of LEp/Rn in these areas were ranged from 1.138 to 0.647. At the site scale, there were 61, 178, and 170 meteorological stations with daily average LEp/Rn values >1 during three periods (from January to April, May to August, and September to December, respectively). The ratio of LEp/Rn showed an obvious surface energy imbalance, and it was extremely obvious in northern China. Meanwhile, it is found that there was also great uncertainty of the ET0, which estimated based on the calculated and measured net radiation. In general, the uncertainty of ET0 was ranged from −0.955 to 1.028 mm/day and the average value of uncertainty was 0.154 mm/day. The uncertainty also showed obviously temporal variation, which was lower during April to October, but was higher in other times. The main cause of the energy balance closure problem was the overestimation of the aerodynamic component of ET0. In view of such situation, this study suggested the two ways to estimate ET0 for different regions.
Performance Analysis and Projected Changes of Agroclimatological Indices Across West Africa Based on High‐Resolution Regional Climate Model Simulations
Authors: Dieng Diarra , Laux Patrick , Smiatek Gerhard , Heinzeller Dominikus , Bliefernicht Jan , Sarr Abdoulaye , Gaye Amadou Thierno , Kunstmann Harald
Published: July 2018

In this study, we analyze a set of agroclimatological indices across West Africa and assess their projected changes for the future. We apply the regional climate model CCLM (COnsortium for Small‐scale MOdelling in CLimate Mode) with a high spatial resolution of 0.11° (approximately 12 km) under current (1981–2010) and future climate conditions, based on the emission scenario RCP4.5. The focus is on purely rainfall‐based indices, that is, the onset (ORS), the cessation (CRS), and the length of the rainy season (LRS) and the joint rainfall‐ and temperature‐based indices, that is, growing degree days (GDD) and the water availability (WAV), derived for maize, sorghum, and pearl millet across Guinea, Savanna, and Sahel. For the present, in general, the CCLM compares well to observations, represented by three different products. However, CCLM shows limitations in the representation of the CRS over Guinea with a delay of >30 days and the GDD and WAV over Sahel with biases up to 30% and 70% for all crops. For the future climate projections, ORS, CRS, and LRS are expected to be delayed up to 2 weeks for most regions, in particular for the period 2071–2100. The GDD is expected to increase by around 8% till 2021–2050 and by around 5% till 2071–2100 for all crops. The WAV is expected to be decreased by up to 10% in 2021–2050, and by up to 24% in 2071–2100 in Sahel, and <12% over Guinea and Savanna in both periods. In particular, we evaluate the added value of the high‐resolution CCLM information for decision support in agricultural management.
Distinct Turbulence Structures in Stably Stratified Boundary Layers With Weak and Strong Surface Shear
Authors: Lan Changxing , Liu Heping , Li Dan , Katul Gabriel G. , Finn Dennis
Published: July 2018

Turbulence structures and exchange of momentum and heat in the nocturnal stable boundary layer (SBL) show distinct features under different stability conditions prompting interest in their connection. Here eddy covariance data collected at four different heights on a 62‐m meteorological tower over a large open flat terrain are used to characterize different SBL states and associated turbulence structures. In a SBL characterized by strong near‐surface winds, turbulent eddy sizes scale with their observational heights and the SBL experiences enhanced turbulent mixing of momentum and heat throughout (a state hereafter referred to as a “coupled” state). Conversely, in a decoupled SBL, weak winds occur near the surface and turbulent eddies are depressed and detached from the boundary leading to suppressed vertical mixing and layered SBL profiles. Because the transport of momentum and heat to the surface across SBL layers is determined by turbulent eddies, cross‐layer correlation and the aforementioned SBL coupling states can be delineated by distinct turbulence structures.
Introducing Göbekli Tepe to Psychology
Authors: Henley Tracy B.
Published: July 2018

Göbekli Tepe is the name of a remarkable archaeological site that challenges long held assumptions about the Neolithic Revolution, that is, our first transition from hunters and gatherers into settled farmers. Instead of permanent settlements and agriculture being prerequisite for religion, social specialization, and writing, evidence from Göbekli Tepe suggests that may be backward, and that such psychological changes are what afforded sedentism and agriculture. Three aspects of the site—who built it, its use as a “temple,” and evidence of the earliest known proto-writings—are discussed to illustrate Göbekli Tepe's relevance to psychology. In turn, the social psychological phenomenon of storytelling is used to illustrate psychology's potential relevance to cognitive archeology.
Lack of association between PER3 variable number tandem repeat and circadian rhythm sleep–wake disorders
Authors: Hida Akiko , Kitamura Shingo , Kadotani Hiroshi , Uchiyama Makoto , Ebisawa Takashi , Inoue Yuichi , Kamei Yuichi , Mishima Kazuo
Published: July 2018

Circadian rhythm sleep–wake disorders (CRSWDs) are characterized by disturbed sleep–wake patterns. We genotyped a PER3 variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) in 248 CRSWD individuals and 925 controls and found no significant association between the VNTR and CRSWDs or morningness–eveningness (diurnal) preferences in the Japanese population. Although the VNTR has been associated with circadian and sleep phenotypes in some other populations, the polymorphism may not be a universal genetic marker.
TBK-binding protein 1 regulates IL-15-induced autophagy and NKT cell survival
Authors: Zhu Lele , Xie Xiaoping , Zhang Lingyun , Wang Hui , Jie Zuliang , Zhou Xiaofei , Shi Jianhong , Zhao Shuli , Zhang Boxiang , Cheng Xuhong , Sun Shao-Cong
Published: July 2018

The cytokine IL-15 mediates development and survival of immune cells, including natural killer T (NKT) cells, but the underlying mechanism of IL-15 function is incompletely understood. Here we show that IL-15 induces autophagy in NKT cells with a mechanism that involves a crucial signaling component, TBK-binding protein 1 (Tbkbp1). Tbkbp1 facilitates activation of the autophagy-initiating kinase Ulk1 through antagonizing the inhibitory action of mTORC1. This antagonization involves the recruitment of an mTORC1-opposing phosphatase to Ulk1. Tbkbp1 deficiency attenuates IL-15-stimulated NKT cell autophagy, and is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, aberrant ROS production, defective Bcl2 expression and reduced NKT cell survival. Consequently, Tbkbp1-deficient mice have profound deficiency in NKT cells, especially IFN-γ-producing NKT1. We further show that Tbkbp1 regulates IL-15-stimulated autophagy and survival of NK cells. These findings suggest a mechanism of autophagy induction by IL-15, and establish Tbkbp1 as a regulator of NKT cell development and survival.
Remote C−H functionalization using radical translocating arylating groups
Authors: Friese Florian W. , Mück-Lichtenfeld Christian , Studer Armido
Published: July 2018

Site selective chemical functionalization at unactivated C(sp3)−H bonds is highly challenging and recent successful studies mostly focus on the use of transition metal catalysis in combination with directing groups. Radical chemistry offers a complementary approach with the Barton and the Hofmann-Löffler-Freytag reactions being landmark contributions in the area of remote C−H functionalization at unactivated aliphatic sites. Herein we introduce the concept of radical translocation arylation at unactivated secondary and tertiary C(sp3)−H bonds in various alcohols. The straightforward two-step sequence comprises an ionic alcohol sulfonylation with especially designed ortho-iodoaryl sulfonyl chlorides followed by a radical cascade reaction including aryl radical generation, remote radical translocation, aryl migration, reduction, and SO2 extrusion to give the corresponding γ-arylated alcohols. Moderate to good yields are obtained, remote C−H arylation occurs with excellent regioselectivity and for secondary C(sp3)−H bonds good to excellent stereoselectivity is achieved.
Nano-photosensitizer based on layered double hydroxide and isophthalic acid for singlet oxygenation and photodynamic therapy
Authors: Gao Rui , Mei Xuan , Yan Dongpeng , Liang Ruizheng , Wei Min
Published: July 2018

Singlet oxygen has won a great deal of attention to catalysis and biological studies due to its strong oxidizing properties. However, the photosensitizers which require for the generation of singlet oxygen remain inadequate because of their lack of long-wavelength absorption, weak hydrophilicity, and poor biocompatibility. Here, we develop near-infrared laser activated supramolecular photosensitizers (isophthalic acid/layered double hydroxide nanohybrids) for efficient two-photon photodynamic therapy. The singlet oxygen quantum yield of nanohybrid is up to 0.74. Critically, in vitro tests verify the superior anti-cancer properties of nanohybrid with an IC50 determine to be 0.153 μg mL−1. The nanohybrids take advantage of the superior tissue penetration of 808 nm laser irradiation and exhibit a dramatically strong ability to ablate tumors in vivo, with extremely low toxicity. This work provides the proof of concept that ultralong-lived triplet excitons can function as two-photon-activated photosensitizers for an effective singlet oxygen generation.
A complex of C9ORF72 and p62 uses arginine methylation to eliminate stress granules by autophagy
Authors: Chitiprolu Maneka , Jagow Chantal , Tremblay Veronique , Bondy-Chorney Emma , Paris Geneviève , Savard Alexandre , Palidwor Gareth , Barry Francesca A. , Zinman Lorne , Keith Julia , Rogaeva Ekaterina , Robertson Janice , Lavallée-Adam Mathieu , Woulfe John , Couture Jean-François , Côté Jocelyn , Gibbings Derrick
Published: July 2018

Mutations in proteins like FUS which cause Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) result in the aberrant formation of stress granules while ALS-linked mutations in other proteins impede elimination of stress granules. Repeat expansions in C9ORF72, the major cause of ALS, reduce C9ORF72 levels but how this impacts stress granules is uncertain. Here, we demonstrate that C9ORF72 associates with the autophagy receptor p62 and controls elimination of stress granules by autophagy. This requires p62 to associate via the Tudor protein SMN with proteins, including FUS, that are symmetrically methylated on arginines. Mice lacking p62 accumulate arginine-methylated proteins and alterations in FUS-dependent splicing. Patients with C9ORF72 repeat expansions accumulate symmetric arginine dimethylated proteins which co-localize with p62. This suggests that C9ORF72 initiates a cascade of ALS-linked proteins (C9ORF72, p62, SMN, FUS) to recognize stress granules for degradation by autophagy and hallmarks of a defect in this process are observable in ALS patients.
Bistable and photoswitchable states of matter
Authors: Worrell Brady T. , McBride Matthew K. , Lyon Gayla B. , Cox Lewis M. , Wang Chen , Mavila Sudheendran , Lim Chern-Hooi , Coley Hannah M. , Musgrave Charles B. , Ding Yifu , Bowman Christopher N.
Published: July 2018

Classical materials readily switch phases (solid to fluid or fluid to gas) upon changes in pressure or heat; however, subsequent reversion of the stimulus returns the material to their original phase. Covalently cross-linked polymer networks, which are solids that do not flow when strained, do not change phase even upon changes in temperature and pressure. However, upon the addition of dynamic cross-links, they become stimuli responsive, capable of switching phase from solid to fluid, but quickly returning to the solid state once the stimulus is removed. Reported here is the first material capable of a bistable switching of phase. A permanent solid to fluid transition or vice versa is demonstrated at room temperature, with inherent, spatiotemporal control over this switch in either direction triggered by exposure to light.
Paeonin extracted from potatoes protects gastric epithelial cells from H2O2-induced oxidative damage in vitro by PI3K/Akt-mediated Nrf2 signaling pathway
Authors: Xiao Jiping , Chen Bo , Wang Qiong , Yang Lijuan , Guo Huachun
Published: July 2018

In this study, it is aimed to investigate the antioxidant mechanism of new extracts from potatoes. Four pigments, namely, Petunin, Paeonin, Malvidin and Pelargonidin, were extracted from potatoes by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Our results showed that the cellular morphology and cell viability were significantly altered in gastric mucosal epithelial cells (GES-1) treated with different hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentrations over time (P < 0.05). Paeonin presented the strongest anti-oxidative effects on H2O2-treated cells, in both a dose- and time-dependent manner, determined by ARE-luciferase activity and HO-1 mRNA expression. After pre-treatment with Paeonin in H2O2-exposed cells, Keap1, Nrf2, HO-1 and NQO1 protein expressions were remarkably up-regulated. Furthermore, immunostaining of Nrf2 expression was obviously elevated in the H2O2 + Paeonin group over time. The GSH content in the H2O2 + Paeonin group was notably lower than that in the H2O2 + Paeonin + GSK690693 group. Paeonin promoted cell cycle with augmented Cyclin D1 and p27 protein expressions. Moreover, Paeonin suppressed apoptosis with increased Bcl2, total Caspase3 and total Caspase8 protein expressions and decreased Bax, p-Caspase3 and p-Caspase8 protein expression in H2O2-treated cells. These results suggested that Paeonin might exert an anti-oxidative role by activating Nrf2 signaling pathway with the changes of cell cycle and apoptosis.
Biotic and abiotic drivers of tree seedling recruitment across an alpine treeline ecotone
Authors: Frei Esther R. , Bianchi Eva , Bernareggi Giulietta , Bebi Peter , Dawes Melissa A. , Brown Carissa D. , Trant Andrew J. , Mamet Steven D. , Rixen Christian
Published: July 2018

Treeline responses to climate change ultimately depend on successful seedling recruitment, which requires dispersal of viable seeds and establishment of individual propagules in novel environments. In this study, we evaluated the effects of several abiotic and biotic drivers of early tree seedling recruitment across an alpine treeline ecotone. In two consecutive years, we sowed seeds of low- and high-elevation provenances of Larix decidua (European larch) and Picea abies (Norway spruce) below, at, and above the current treeline into intact vegetation and into open microsites with artificially removed surface vegetation, as well as into plots protected from seed predators and herbivores. Seedling emergence and early establishment in treatment and in control plots were monitored over two years. Tree seedling emergence occurred at and several hundred metres above the current treeline when viable seeds and suitable microsites for germination were available. However, dense vegetation cover at lower elevations and winter mortality at higher elevations particularly limited early recruitment. Post-dispersal predation, species, and provenance also affected emergence and early establishment. This study demonstrates the importance of understanding multiple abiotic and biotic drivers of early seedling recruitment that should be incorporated into predictions of treeline dynamics under climate change.
Magnetoelectric Spin Wave Modulator Based On Synthetic Multiferroic Structure
Authors: Balinskiy Michael , Chavez Andres C. , Barra Anthony , Chiang Howard , Carman Gregory P. , Khitun Alexander
Published: July 2018

We describe a spin wave modulator – spintronic device aimed to control spin wave propagation by an electric field. The modulator consists of a ferromagnetic film serving as a spin wave bus combined with a synthetic multiferroic comprising piezoelectric and magnetostrictive materials. Its operation is based on the stress-mediated coupling between the piezoelectric and magnetostrictive materials. By applying an electric field to the piezoelectric layer, the stress is produced. In turn, the stress changes the direction of the easy axis in the magnetostrictive layer and affects spin wave transport. We present experimental data on a prototype consisting of a piezoelectric [Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3](1-x) –[PbTiO3]x substrate, and 30 nm layer of magnetostrictive Ni film, where the film is attached to a 30 nm thick Ni81Fe19 spin wave bus. We report spin wave signal modulation in Ni81Fe19 layer by an electric field applied across the piezoelectric layer. The switching between the spin wave conducting and non-conducting states is achieved by applying ±0.3 MV/m electric field. We report over 300% modulation depth detected 80 μm away from the excitation port at room temperature. The demonstration of the spin wave modulator provides a new direction for spin-based device development by utilizing an electric field for spin current control.
Reading and Myopia: Contrast Polarity Matters
Authors: Aleman Andrea C. , Wang Min , Schaeffel Frank
Published: July 2018

In myopia the eye grows too long, generating poorly focused retinal images when people try to look at a distance. Myopia is tightly linked to the educational status and is on the rise worldwide. It is still not clear which kind of visual experience stimulates eye growth in children and students when they study. We propose a new and perhaps unexpected reason. Work in animal models has shown that selective activation of ON or OFF pathways has also selective effects on eye growth. This is likely to be true also in humans. Using custom-developed software to process video frames of the visual environment in realtime we quantified relative ON and OFF stimulus strengths. We found that ON and OFF inputs were largely balanced in natural environments. However, black text on white paper heavily overstimulated retinal OFF pathways. Conversely, white text on black paper overstimulated ON pathways. Using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in young human subjects, we found that the choroid, the heavily perfused layer behind the retina in the eye, becomes about 16 µm thinner in only one hour when subjects read black text on white background but about 10 µm thicker when they read white text from black background. Studies both in animal models and in humans have shown that thinner choroids are associated with myopia development and thicker choroids with myopia inhibition. Therefore, reading white text from a black screen or tablet may be a way to inhibit myopia, while conventional black text on white background may stimulate myopia.
GOATOOLS: A Python library for Gene Ontology analyses
Authors: Klopfenstein D. V. , Zhang Liangsheng , Pedersen Brent S. , Ramírez Fidel , Warwick Vesztrocy Alex , Naldi Aurélien , Mungall Christopher J. , Yunes Jeffrey M. , Botvinnik Olga , Weigel Mark , Dampier Will , Dessimoz Christophe , Flick Patrick , Tang Haibao
Published: July 2018

The biological interpretation of gene lists with interesting shared properties, such as up- or down-regulation in a particular experiment, is typically accomplished using gene ontology enrichment analysis tools. Given a list of genes, a gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis may return hundreds of statistically significant GO results in a “flat” list, which can be challenging to summarize. It can also be difficult to keep pace with rapidly expanding biological knowledge, which often results in daily changes to any of the over 47,000 gene ontologies that describe biological knowledge. GOATOOLS, a Python-based library, makes it more efficient to stay current with the latest ontologies and annotations, perform gene ontology enrichment analyses to determine over- and under-represented terms, and organize results for greater clarity and easier interpretation using a novel GOATOOLS GO grouping method. We performed functional analyses on both stochastic simulation data and real data from a published RNA-seq study to compare the enrichment results from GOATOOLS to two other popular tools: DAVID and GOstats. GOATOOLS is freely available through GitHub: https://github.com/tanghaibao/goatools.
How driving rates determine the statistics of driven non-equilibrium systems with stationary distributions
Authors: Corominas-Murtra Bernat , Hanel Rudolf , Zavojanni Leonardo , Thurner Stefan
Published: July 2018

Sample space reducing (SSR) processes offer a simple analytical way to understand the origin and ubiquity of power-laws in many path-dependent complex systems. SRR processes show a wide range of applications that range from fragmentation processes, language formation to search and cascading processes. Here we argue that they also offer a natural framework to understand stationary distributions of generic driven non-equilibrium systems that are composed of a driving- and a relaxing process. We show that the statistics of driven non-equilibrium systems can be derived from the understanding of the nature of the underlying driving process. For constant driving rates exact power-laws emerge with exponents that are related to the driving rate. If driving rates become state-dependent, or if they vary across the life-span of the process, the functional form of the state-dependence determines the statistics. Constant driving rates lead to exact power-laws, a linear state-dependence function yields exponential or Gamma distributions, a quadratic function produces the normal distribution. Logarithmic and power-law state dependence leads to log-normal and stretched exponential distribution functions, respectively. Also Weibull, Gompertz and Tsallis-Pareto distributions arise naturally from simple state-dependent driving rates. We discuss a simple physical example of consecutive elastic collisions that exactly represents a SSR process.
Reduction of the forming voltage through tailored oxygen non-stoichiometry in tantalum oxide ReRAM devices
Authors: Skaja Katharina , Andrä Michael , Rana Vikas , Waser Rainer , Dittmann Regina , Baeumer Christoph
Published: July 2018

In this study, we investigated the influence of oxygen non-stoichiometry on the resistive switching performance of tantalum oxide based memristive devices. Thin-films of tantalum oxide were deposited with varying sputter power and oxygen partial pressure. The electroforming voltage was found to decrease with increasing power density or decreased oxygen partial pressure, while the endurance remained stable and the resistance window ROFF/RON was found to increase. In-depth XPS analysis connects these observations to a controllable oxygen sub-stoichiometry in the sputter-deposited films. Our analysis shows that the decrease of the forming voltage results from an increase in carrier density in the as-prepared thin-films, which is induced by the presence of oxygen vacancies.
Menthol, a unique urinary volatile compound, is associated with chronic inflammation in interstitial cystitis
Authors: Shahid Muhammad , Lee Min Young , Yeon Austin , Cho Eunho , Sairam Vikram , Valdiviez Luis , You Sungyong , Kim Jayoung
Published: July 2018

Chronic inflammation is a potential systemic risk factor for many bladder dysfunctions, including interstitial cystitis (IC). However, the underlying mechanism through which a healthy bladder protects itself from inflammatory triggers remains unknown. In this study, we identified odor compounds in urine obtained from IC patients and healthy controls. Using comprehensive solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-TOF-MS) profiling and bioinformatics, we found that levels of urinary volatile metabolites, such as menthol, were significantly reduced in IC patients, compared to healthy controls. In an attempt to understand the mechanistic meaning of our volatile metabolites data and the role of menthol in the immune system, we performed two independent experiments: (a) cytokine profiling, and (b) DNA microarray. Our findings suggest that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated inflammatory events, such as the production and secretion of inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) and the activation of NF-κB and associated proteins within a large signaling network (e.g., Akt, TLR1, TNFAIP3, and NF-κB), are suppressed by the presence of menthol. These findings broaden our knowledge on the role of urinary menthol in suppressing inflammatory events and provide potential new strategies for alleviating both the odor and inflammation associated with IC.
Label-free multiphoton microscopy reveals relevant tissue changes induced by alginate hydrogel implantation in rat spinal cord injury
Authors: Galli Roberta , Sitoci-Ficici Kerim H. , Uckermann Ortrud , Later Robert , Marečková Magda , Koch Maria , Leipnitz Elke , Schackert Gabriele , Koch Edmund , Gelinsky Michael , Steiner Gerald , Kirsch Matthias
Published: July 2018

The development of therapies promoting recovery after spinal cord injury is a challenge. Alginate hydrogels offer the possibility to develop biocompatible implants with mechanical properties tailored to the nervous tissue, which could provide a permissive environment for tissue repair. Here, the effects of non-functionalized soft calcium alginate hydrogel were investigated in a rat model of thoracic spinal cord hemisection and compared to lesioned untreated controls. Open field locomotion tests were employed to evaluate functional recovery. Tissue analysis was performed with label-free multiphoton microscopy using a multimodal approach that combines coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering to visualize axonal structures, two-photon fluorescence to visualize inflammation, second harmonic generation to visualize collagenous scarring. Treated animals recovered hindlimb function significantly better than controls. Multiphoton microscopy revealed that the implant influenced the injury-induced tissue response, leading to decreased inflammation, reduced scarring with different morphology and increased presence of axons. Demyelination of contralateral white matter near the lesion was prevented. Reduced chronic inflammation and increased amount of axons in the lesion correlated with improved hindlimb functions, being thus relevant for locomotion recovery. In conclusion, non-functionalized hydrogel improved functional outcome after spinal cord injury in rats. Furthermore, label-free multiphoton microscopy qualified as suitable technique for regeneration studies.
Quantitative muscle MRI to follow up late onset Pompe patients: a prospective study
Authors: Figueroa-Bonaparte Sebastian , Llauger Jaume , Segovia Sonia , Belmonte Izaskun , Pedrosa Irene , Montiel Elena , Montesinos Paula , Sánchez-González Javier , Alonso-Jiménez Alicia , Gallardo Eduard , Illa Isabel ,   Spanish Pompe group, Barba-Romero Miguel Angel , Barcena Joseba , Carbonell Pilar , Carzorla María Rosario , Creus Carlota , Coll-Cantí Jaume , Díaz Manuel , Domínguez Cristina , Fernández-Torrón Roberto , García-Antelo María José , Grau Josep Maria , López de Munáin Adolfo , Martínez-García Francisco Antonio , Morgado Yolanda , Moreno Antonio , Morís Germán , Muñoz-Blanco Miguel Angel , Nascimento Andres , Parajua José Luis , Robledo-Strauss Arturo , Rojas-Marcos Íñigo , Salazar Jose António , Usón Mercedes , Díaz-Manera Jordi
Published: July 2018

Late onset Pompe disease (LOPD) is a slow, progressive disorder characterized by skeletal and respiratory muscle weakness. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) slows down the progression of muscle symptoms. Reliable biomarkers are needed to follow up ERT-treated and asymptomatic LOPD patients in clinical practice. In this study, 32 LOPD patients (22 symptomatic and 10 asymptomatic) underwent muscle MRI using 3-point Dixon and were evaluated at the time of the MRI with several motor function tests and patient-reported outcome measures, and again after one year. Muscle MRI showed a significant increase of 1.7% in the fat content of the thigh muscles in symptomatic LOPD patients. In contrast, there were no noteworthy differences between muscle function tests in the same period of time. We did not observe any significant changes either in muscle MRI or in muscle function tests in asymptomatic patients over the year. We conclude that 3-point Dixon muscle MRI is a useful tool for detecting changes in muscle structure in symptomatic LOPD patients and could become part of the current follow-up protocol in daily clinics.
Electrostatic Tuning of the Ligand Binding Mechanism by Glu27 in Nitrophorin 7
Authors: Abbruzzetti Stefania , Allegri Alessandro , Bidon-Chanal Axel , Ogata Hideaki , Soavi Giancarlo , Cerullo Giulio , Bruno Stefano , Montali Chiara , Luque F. Javier , Viappiani Cristiano
Published: July 2018

Nitrophorins (NP) 1–7 are NO-carrying heme proteins found in the saliva of the blood-sucking insect Rhodnius prolixus. The isoform NP7 displays peculiar properties, such as an abnormally high isoelectric point, the ability to bind negatively charged membranes, and a strong pH sensitivity of NO affinity. A unique trait of NP7 is the presence of Glu in position 27, which is occupied by Val in other NPs. Glu27 appears to be important for tuning the heme properties, but its influence on the pH-dependent NO release mechanism, which is assisted by a conformational change in the AB loop, remains unexplored. Here, in order to gain insight into the functional role of Glu27, we examine the effect of Glu27 → Val and Glu27 → Gln mutations on the ligand binding kinetics using CO as a model. The results reveal that annihilation of the negative charge of Glu27 upon mutation reduces the pH sensitivity of the ligand binding rate, a process that in turn depends on the ionization of Asp32. We propose that Glu27 exerts a through-space electrostatic action on Asp32, which shifts the pKa of the latter amino acid towards more acidic values thus reducing the pH sensitivity of the transition between open and closed states.