bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lawyers and Embedded Legal Activity in the Southern Civil Rights Movement
Authors: Andrews Kenneth T. , Jowers Kay
Published: December 2017

We introduce the concept of embedded legal activity to capture the ways in which lawyers and legal organizations can become intertwined in the ongoing activities of social movements. Embedded legal activity is characterized by diverse issues and venues and comprises legal activities that help support movement infrastructure, close coordination between movement lawyers and other activists, and responsiveness to constituent needs. Investigating a comprehensive data set on legal activity during the southern civil rights movement, we identify forms of legal activity beyond the typical focus of legal mobilization, including defense for movement participants charged with misdemeanors and other crimes, movement assistance on organization‐level legal matters, and general legal aid to movement constituents. These were by far the more common types of legal activity and emerged from the embeddedness of lawyers in a mass movement. We argue that embedded legal activity is likely where movements prioritize grassroots leadership and community organizing and face significant countermobilization, hostile legal and political opportunity structures, and substantial social and economic inequality.
The effectiveness of interventions using relaxation therapy to improve breastfeeding outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Mohd Shukri Nurul Husna , Wells Jonathan C. K. , Fewtrell Mary
Published: December 2017

Maternal psychological state is recognised to influence lactation success, largely by affecting milk ejection. Thus, increased psychological distress can disrupt milk flow and in the long‐term, affect milk synthesis. Conversely, it is possible that milk ejection could be improved by using relaxation therapy during breastfeeding. We performed a systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions using relaxation therapy to improve breastfeeding outcomes and to assess the consequent impact(s) on infant growth and behaviour. A literature search was performed using the PRISMA guidelines where we included intervention studies (including nonrandomised controlled studies) using relaxation therapy in breastfeeding mothers during the post‐natal period. Out of 147 identified records at the initial search, 5 studies were eligible, of which 3 were randomised controlled trials and 2 were nonrandomised or quasi‐experimental studies. These studies were conducted in Europe, America, and India and included 311 mother–infant pairs, of which 64 infants were full‐term and 247 were premature infants. Relaxation therapy was shown to increase milk yield in mothers of preterm infants in 2 randomised trials, however, the milk sampling protocol for these studies could be questioned. None of the studies investigated the consequent effects on infant outcomes. Overall, limited evidence was found on the effectiveness of relaxation therapy on breast milk composition and infant outcomes. Experimental studies with better standardisation of protocol and robust methodological design are needed to investigate the effectiveness of relaxation therapy on both breastfeeding and infant growth and behavioural outcomes.
Protective role of the HOG pathway against the growth defect caused by impaired biosynthesis of complex sphingolipids in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Yamaguchi Yutaro , Katsuki Yuka , Tanaka Seiya , Kawaguchi Ryotaro , Denda Hiroto , Ikeda Takuma , Funato Kouichi , Tani Motohiro
Published: December 2017

Complex sphingolipids play critical roles in various cellular events in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To identify genes that are related to the growth defect caused by disruption of complex sphingolipid biosynthesis, we screened for suppressor mutations and multicopy suppressor genes that confer resistance against repression of AUR1 encoding inositol phosphorylceramide synthase. From the results of this screening, we found that the activation of high‐osmolarity glycerol (HOG) pathway is involved in suppression of growth defect caused by impaired biosynthesis of complex sphingolipids. Furthermore, it was found that transcriptional regulation via Msn2, Msn4 and Sko1 is involved in the suppressive effect of the HOG pathway. Lack of the HOG pathway did not enhance the reductions in complex sphingolipid levels or the increase in ceramide level caused by the AUR1 repression, implying that the suppressive effect of the HOG pathway on the growth defect is not attributed to restoration of impaired biosynthesis of complex sphingolipids. On the contrary, the HOG pathway and Msn2/4‐mediated transcriptional activation was involved in suppression of aberrant reactive oxygen species accumulation caused by the AUR1 repression. These results indicated that the HOG pathway plays pivotal roles in maintaining cell growth under impaired biosynthesis of complex sphingolipids.
Familial tauopathy with P364S MAPT mutation: clinical course, neuropathology and ultrastructure of neuronal tau inclusions
Authors: Štrafela P. , Pleško J. , Magdič J. , Koritnik B. , Zupan A. , Glavač D. , Bresjanac M. , Popović M.
Published: December 2017

Aims

This report presents the clinical course, neuropathology and ultrastructure of neuronal tau inclusions of four Slovene relatives with P364S MAPT mutation.

Methods

The clinical history of three out of four P364S MAPT mutation carriers was taken. After formalin fixation, thorough sampling of the central nervous system was followed by paraffin embedding, H&E, Gallyas, Bielschowsky and immunostaining with AT8, anti‐3R, anti‐4R tau, anti‐amyloid‐β, anti‐TDP43 and anti‐alpha‐synuclein antibodies. The distribution and density of different types of neuronal tau inclusions were semiquantitatively assessed. In addition, the ultrastructure of neuronal tau inclusions was analysed.

Results

Macroscopic examination of the brains was unremarkable. Microscopically, neuronal tau inclusions of almost all known types were widespread and distributed fairly uniformly in all cases. Pick bodies and swollen neurones were found in only one family member. Mutant tau was composed of 3R and 4R isoforms, with a slight predominance of 3R tau. Composite neuronal tau inclusion (CNTI), found in all four relatives, was a hallmark of the P364S MAPT mutation. CNTI showed compartmental differences in H&E and Gallyas staining, tau isoforms immunolabelling and ultrastructure, displaying fuzzy fibrils in the core and paired twisted tubules at the periphery.

Conclusions

P364S MAPT mutation is characterized clinically by a variable combination of frontotemporal dementia, parkinsonism and motor neurone disease of short duration, and neuropathologically by a widespread uniform distribution of all known neuronal tau inclusions in one family member. Two‐compartment CNTI is a unique characteristic of the P364S MAPT mutation.
Temporomandibular joint positional change accompanies post‐surgical mandibular relapse—A long‐term retrospective study among patients who underwent mandibular advancement
Authors: Miao M. Z. , Wang B. , Wu D. , Zhang S. , Wong S. , Shi O. , Hu A. , Mao L. , Fang B.
Published: December 2017

Structured Abstract

Objective

This study evaluated the relationship between follow‐up temporomandibular joint positional change and mandibular stability among patients who had orthognathic and orthodontic treatment for a skeletal Class II malocclusion.

Methods

Thirty‐seven patients who underwent 2‐jaw surgery (Le Fort I osteotomy, bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy and genioplasty with rigid internal fixation) were included with an average follow‐up length of 8.10 ± 2.06 years. They were categorized into a stable and unstable group according to follow‐up mandibular change in the sagittal direction. Temporomandibular joint spaces were measured on serial magnetic resonance images, prior to orthodontic treatment (T0), upon completion of orthodontic treatment following surgery (T1), and at least 5 years post‐completion of the treatment (T2).

Results

While the maxillary position was stable during the follow‐up period, the mandibular positional change was statistically significant (the relapse amount was −0.81 ± 1.52 mm at B point). An increase in the anterior joint space and superior joint space was found to correlate with the follow‐up mandibular backward movement.

Conclusions

Patients who underwent orthognathic and orthodontic treatment to correct mandibular retrognathism displayed follow‐up mandibular relapse in the sagittal direction. The relapse is accompanied by condylar positional change.
Reflection in the training of nurses in clinical practice settings: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Schumann Scheel Linda , Peters Micah D.J. , Meinertz Møbjerg Anna Christine
Published: December 2017

Review question/objective

This scoping review will seek to find answers for the following questions which will focus on the use of reflection in the education of nurses in clinical settings:

1. What tools and approaches for reflection have been reported?

2. What “levels” of reflection have been achieved/identified (“low”/descriptive, “middle”/application, or “high”/evaluative)

3. What outcomes of reflection have been included/reported?

The review will also extract and map data regarding: i) what outcomes have been found in relation to the use of different tools and approaches (e.g. dialogues, diaries, case studies); ii) how approaches and tools have been implemented as interventions; iii) details of the topic or focus of reflection (e.g. ethical issues, care of older adults etc.); iv) details about the participants involved in reflection activities (e.g. first or second year undergraduate nursing students etc.); and v) barriers/challenges to the use of reflection approaches/tools. Additional details may also be extracted and mapped during the process of the scoping review and this will be explained in the final scoping review report.
Acute oxygen sensing by the carotid body: a rattlebag of molecular mechanisms
Authors: Rakoczy Ryan J. , Wyatt Christopher N.
Published: December 2017

The molecular underpinnings of the oxygen sensitivity of the carotid body Type I cells are becoming better defined as research begins to identify potential interactions between previously separate theories. Nevertheless, the field of oxygen chemoreception still presents the general observer with a bewildering array of potential signalling pathways by which a fall in oxygen levels might initiate Type I cell activation. The purpose of this brief review is to address five of the current oxygen sensing hypotheses: the lactate–Olfr 78 hypothesis of oxygen chemotransduction; the role mitochondrial ATP and metabolism may have in chemotransduction; the AMP‐activated protein kinase hypothesis and its current role in oxygen sensing by the carotid body; reactive oxygen species as key transducers in the oxygen sensing cascade; and the mechanisms by which H2S, reactive oxygen species and haem oxygenase may integrate to provide a rapid oxygen sensing transduction system. Over the previous 15 years several lines of research into acute hypoxic chemotransduction mechanisms have focused on the integration of mitochondrial and membrane signalling. This review places an emphasis on the subplasmalemmal–mitochondrial microenvironment in Type I cells and how theories of acute oxygen sensing are increasingly dependent on functional interaction within this microenvironment.

image
Redundant MEMS-Based Inertial Navigation Using Nonlinear Observers
Authors: Rogne Robert. H. , Bryne Torleiv. H. , Fossen Thor. I. , Johansen Tor. A.
Published: December 2017

We present two alternative methods for fault detection and isolation (FDI) with redundant Microelectromechanical system (MEMS) inertial measurement units (IMUs) in inertial navigation systems (INS) based on nonlinear observers (NLOs). The first alternative is based on the parity space method, while the second is expanded with quaternion-based averaging and FDI. Both alternatives are implemented and validated using data gathered in a full-scale experiment on an offshore vessel. Data from three identical MEMS IMUs and the vessel's own industrial sensors are used to verify the methods' FDI capabilities. The results reveal that when it comes to FDI of the IMUs' angular rate sensors, there are differences between the two methods. The navigation algorithm based on quaternion weighting is essentially unaffected by the failure of an angular rate sensor, while the parity-space-method-based alternative experiences a perturbation.
Modeling and Control of a Novel Linear-Driven Electro-Hydrostatic Actuator Using Energetic Macroscopic Representation
Authors: Jiao Zongxia , Wang Zimeng , Li Xinglu
Published: December 2017

Energetic macroscopic representation (EMR) is an effective graphical modeling tool for multiphysical systems, and EMR model clearly illustrates the power flow and interaction between different subcomponents. This paper presents the modeling and control of a novel linear-driven electro-hydrostatic actuator (LEHA) with EMR method. The LEHA is a novel electro-hydrostatic actuation system, and the hydraulic cylinder in LEHA is driven by a novel collaborative rectification pump (CRP), which incorporates two miniature cylinders and two spool valves. EMR model clearly illustrated the powertrain in LEHA and interaction between each components. Based on EMR model, a maximum control structure (MCS) is easily deduced using the action and reaction principle, and then the practicable controller deduced from MCS shows satisfying performance in the simulation.
Vector Control of Synthetic Jets Using an Asymmetric Slot
Authors: Kobayashi Ryota , Nishibe Koichi , Watabe Yusuke , Sato Kotaro , Yokota Kazuhiko
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a fundamental study on jet vectoring control by adjusting the dimensionless frequency of synthetic jets over time without changing the injection nozzle shape in actuators. This work involves the introduction of asymmetric slots with various sharp projection lengths in free synthetic jets for various actuator frequencies. The influences of the dimensionless parameters, sharp projection length C, and actuator frequency f* on the behavior of free synthetic jets are experimentally investigated under the same slot width b and Reynolds number Re = 990, and numerical simulations are performed to supplement these experiments. Furthermore, the behavior of synthetic jets is compared with that of continuous jets. The measurements of the velocities for both jet types are performed for the flow visualizations to observe the jet behaviors obtained using the smoke-wire method. The typical flow patterns and the time-averaged velocity distributions of the synthetic jets for various sharp projection lengths and dimensionless frequencies are demonstrated through the experiment. The influence of the dimensionless frequency on the stagnation point near a rigid wall when the inclined synthetic jets form a recirculation flow is also investigated. Furthermore, the degree of the bend of the jets is evaluated based on the change in the jet center's position at a reference downstream cross section. The results show that the jet direction of the synthetic jets induced by the asymmetric slots is related to both the dimensionless sharp projection length and the dimensionless frequency.
Analysis of the Flue Gas Preparation Process for the Purposes of Carbon Dioxide Separation Using the Adsorption Methods
Authors: Zarzycki Robert , Panowski Marcin
Published: December 2017

The necessity of limitation of carbon dioxide emissions, which also concerns the energy sector, causes that more and more effective and efficient methods of CO2 capture from the flue gas are being tested. Among these technologies are adsorption ones, which have been used for a gas separation for many years. The characteristic features of adsorption separation are: long life of the sorbents used, low energy expenditure, and minim effect on the environment; however, their application requires adequate initial preparation of the flue gas fed into the system of CO2 separation so that the flue gas temperature is as low as possible, and there is no water content in it. The study presents the concept and numerical calculations of the system for preparation of the flue gas feeding the CO2 adsorption (vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA)) separation unit, using the absorption chiller (AC). In the presented concept, the AC is driven by the flue gas which is used as both: upper and lower heat source for AC; however, due to the amount of energy being carried out with the flue gas, which is larger than required by the AC, the additional heat exchangers must be implemented. The calculations presented in the study show that owing to the application of AC, flue gas may be cooled down to temperatures even about 5 °C. Moreover, the simultaneous process of flue gas cooling and drying in such system is realized at low energy expenditure which leads to improvement of the overall energy efficiency of the system of CO2 separation from flue gas and also to reduction of its dimensions.
Simulation of Cogeneration-Combined Cycle Plant Flexibilization by Thermochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Angerer Michael , Djukow Michael , Riedl Karsten , Gleis Stephan , Spliethoff Hartmut
Published: December 2017

In the course of the “Energiewende,” the German electricity market is undergoing major changes. The state-aided priority of renewable generation has led to a significant decline in electricity prices. This reduces the profit margin of cogeneration units and increases the necessity of flexible operation to avoid electricity production when spot prices drop below marginal costs. In this work, a 100 MWel combined-cycle (CC) power plant supplying heat and power to a paper mill is investigated. Currently, the plant is operated heat-controlled and is therefore unable to react to changing electricity spot prices. With the integration of heat storage, the plant is enabled to switch to power-controlled mode. To evaluate the technical impact of the storage, the plant and a thermochemical MgO/Mg(OH)2 storage are modeled using the stationary process simulation tool ebsilon professional. Different operation modes are investigated and results are used to derive a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model to optimize the operation of the plant/storage system. Using this method, the overall economic impact of the storage on the plant operation is quantified.
Graphene Growth on and Transfer From Platinum Thin Films
Authors: Cho Joon Hyong , Cullinan Michael
Published: December 2017

This paper presents graphene growth on Pt thin films deposited with four different adhesion layers: Ti, Cr, Ta, and Ni. During the graphene growth at 1000 °C using conventional chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, these adhesion layers diffuse into and alloy with Pt layer resulting in graphene to grown on different alloys. This means that each different adhesion layers induce a different quality and number of layer(s) of graphene grown on the Pt thin film. This paper presents the feasibility of graphene growth on Pt thin films with various adhesion layers and the obstacles needed to overcome in order to enhance graphene transfer from Pt thin films. Therefore, this paper addresses one of the major difficulties of graphene growth and transfer to the implementation of graphene in nano/micro-electromechanical systems (NEMS/MEMS) devices.
Tribological Behaviors of Polymer-Based Hybrid Nanocomposite Brake Pad
Authors: Gbadeyan Oluwatoyin Joseph , Kanny Krishnan
Published: December 2017

Although extensive improvement has been done on brake pad for vehicles, most recent materials used still encounter wear rate, friction, stopping distance, and time deficiencies. In this regards, this study developed a polymer-based nanocomposite brake pad. Here, a combination of carbon-based materials, including those at a nanoscale, was used to produce the brake pad. Tribological performance, such as friction coefficient, wear rate, and stopping distances of developed brake pad were investigated using an inertial dynamometer. The results revealed that the stopping distances, the coefficient of friction (CoF), and wear rate vary with the brake pad formation and velocity. The micrographs show changes in the structural formation after the incorporation of carbon-based fillers. It also shows smooth surface structure and uniform dispersion of the carbon fiber. The smooth surface of the worn brake pad is an indicative of a tougher structure. Hence, it was deduced that the fabricated polymer-based hybrid composite had good tribological property. This improved property is suggestive of materials that may be successfully used for brake pad application.
Self-Folding Mechanics of Surface Wettability Patterned Graphene Nanoribbons by Liquid Evaporation
Authors: Zhang Yue , Liu Qingchang , Xu Baoxing
Published: December 2017

The control of geometric shapes is well acknowledged as one of the facile routes to regulate properties of graphene. Here, we conduct a theoretical study on the evaporation-driven self-folding of a single piece of graphene nanoribbon that is immersed inside a liquid droplet prior, and demonstrate the folded pattern, which is significantly affected by the surface wettability gradient of the graphene nanoribbon. On the basis of energy competition among elastic bending deformation, liquid–graphene interaction and van der Waals force interaction of folded nanoribbons, we propose a theoretical mechanics model to quantitatively probe the relationship among self-folding, surface wettability gradient, and pattern and size of ultimate folded graphene. Full-scale molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are performed to validate the energy competition and the self-folded patterns, and the results show good agreement with theoretical analyses. This study sheds novel insight on folding graphene nanoribbons by leveraging surface wettability and will serve as a theoretical guidance for the controllable shape design of graphene nanoribbons.
Effect of alumina coatings on corrosion protection of steels in molten lead
Authors: Vassallo Espedito , Pedroni Matteo , Spampinato Valentina , Deambrosis Silvia Maria , Miorin Enrico , Ricci Enrica , Zin Valentina
Published: December 2017

Lead alloys are attractive candidates as coolants for future generation nuclear reactors (fast reactors). Unfortunately, they easily corrode structural steels of reactors. To mitigate this phenomenon, surface protective coatings may be applied. In this study, T91 steel (Cr9Mo1) samples were coated with aluminum oxide coatings (Al-O) deposited by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The alumina coatings were characterized using scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, and tribological techniques. A corrosion test of coated steel samples was performed in stagnant lead at 550 °C for 1200 h and none of the samples revealed corrosion signs.
Optical computed tomography for spatially isotropic four-dimensional imaging of live single cells
Authors: Kelbauskas Laimonas , Shetty Rishabh , Cao Bin , Wang Kuo-Chen , Smith Dean , Wang Hong , Chao Shi-Hui , Gangaraju Sandhya , Ashcroft Brian , Kritzer Margaret , Glenn Honor , Johnson Roger H. , Meldrum Deirdre R.
Published: December 2017

We describe a method based on principles of computed tomography for 4D imaging of live cells with isotropic spatial resolution.
Bioelectronics herald the rise of the cyborg
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: December 2017

Flexible plastic electronics can be wedded to brain tissue to monitor neural chatter.
A small-molecule inhibitor of TRPC5 ion channels suppresses progressive kidney disease in animal models
Authors: Zhou Yiming , Castonguay Philip , Sidhom Eriene-Heidi , Clark Abbe R. , Dvela-Levitt Moran , Kim Sookyung , Sieber Jonas , Wieder Nicolas , Jung Ji Yong , Andreeva Svetlana , Reichardt Jana , Dubois Frank , Hoffmann Sigrid C. , Basgen John M. , Montesinos Mónica S. , Weins Astrid , Johnson Ashley C. , Lander Eric S. , Garrett Michael R. , Hopkins Corey R. , Greka Anna
Published: December 2017

Gaining a foothold on kidney disease?

The leading cause of kidney disease worldwide is known as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). FSGS is associated with loss of podocytes, an unusual cell type critical for the kidney's blood filtration function. Podocytes form interdigitating foot processes that wrap around capillaries and prevent leakage of plasma proteins into urine (proteinuria). Zhou
et al.
suppressed proteinuria by preventing podocyte loss in two different rat models of kidney disease, using a compound that selectively inhibits the TRPC5 ion channel (see the Perspective by Chung and Shaw). In short-term studies, this compound had no detectable side effects. Thus, TRPC5 inhibitors may merit exploration as a therapy for progressive kidney disease.

Science
, this issue p.
1332
; see also p.
1256
A precise measurement of the magnetic field in the corona of the black hole binary V404 Cygni
Authors: Dallilar Yigit , Eikenberry Stephen S. , Garner Alan , Stelter Richard D. , Gottlieb Amy , Gandhi Poshak , Casella Piergiorgio , Dhillon Vik S. , Marsh Tom R. , Littlefair Stuart P. , Hardy Liam , Fender Rob , Mooley Kunal , Walton Dominic J. , Fuerst Felix , Bachetti Matteo , Castro-Tirado A. J. , Charcos Miguel , Edwards Michelle L. , Lasso-Cabrera Nestor M. , Marin-Franch Antonio , Raines S. Nicholas , Ackley Kendall , Bennett John G. , Cenarro A. Javier , Chinn Brian , Donoso H. Veronica , Frommeyer Raymond , Hanna Kevin , Herlevich Michael D. , Julian Jeff , Miller Paola , Mullin Scott , Murphey Charles H. , Packham Chris , Varosi Frank , Vega Claudia , Warner Craig , Ramaprakash A. N. , Burse Mahesh , Punnadi Sujit , Chordia Pravin , Gerarts Andreas , de Paz Martín Héctor , Calero María Martín , Scarpa Riccardo , Acosta Sergio Fernandez , Hernández Sánchez William Miguel , Siegel Benjamin , Pérez Francisco Francisco , Viera Martín Himar D. , Rodríguez Losada José A. , Nuñez Agustín , Tejero Álvaro , Martín González Carlos E. , Rodríguez César Cabrera , Molgó Jordi , Rodriguez J. Esteban , Cáceres J. Israel Fernández , Rodríguez García Luis A. , Lopez Manuel Huertas , Dominguez Raul , Gaggstatter Tim , Lavers Antonio Cabrera , Geier Stefan , Pessev Peter , Sarajedini Ata
Published: December 2017

Conditions in a black hole outburst

The binary system V404 Cygni consists of a red giant star orbiting a black hole. In 2015, a surge of accretion by the black hole caused the surrounding plasma to brighten suddenly for the first time since 1989, briefly becoming the brightest x-ray source in the sky. Dallilar
et al.
combined observations from radio, infrared, optical, and x-ray telescopes taken during the outburst. They compared how fast the flux decayed at each wavelength, which allowed them to constrain the size of the emitting region, determine that the plasma within it cooled through synchrotron radiation, and measure the magnetic field around the black hole.

Science
, this issue p.
1299
Imaging resonant dissipation from individual atomic defects in graphene
Authors: Halbertal Dorri , Ben Shalom Moshe , Uri Aviram , Bagani Kousik , Meltzer Alexander Y. , Marcus Ido , Myasoedov Yuri , Birkbeck John , Levitov Leonid S. , Geim Andre K. , Zeldov Eli
Published: December 2017

Watching electrons lose steam in graphene

Although graphene can be fabricated to be extremely clean, it still has a nonzero electrical resistance. Resistance is associated with turning electrons' energy into heat, but how exactly does this happen? Halbertal
et al.
used a tiny scanning temperature probe based on a superconducting quantum interference device to investigate this problem. As the current flowed through a square-shaped sample of graphene, electrons lost energy predominantly in the vicinity of atomic-scale defects, which were few and far between in the bulk but much more common on the edges of the sample.

Science
, this issue p.
1303
Renewable acrylonitrile production
Authors: Karp Eric M. , Eaton Todd R. , Sànchez i Nogué Violeta , Vorotnikov Vassili , Biddy Mary J. , Tan Eric C. D. , Brandner David G. , Cywar Robin M. , Liu Rongming , Manker Lorenz P. , Michener William E. , Gilhespy Michelle , Skoufa Zinovia , Watson Michael J. , Fruchey O. Stanley , Vardon Derek R. , Gill Ryan T. , Bratis Adam D. , Beckham Gregg T.
Published: December 2017

A sweet source to make acrylonitrile

Much of the attention directed toward displacing petroleum feedstocks with biomass has focused on fuels. However, there are also numerous opportunities in commodity chemical production. One such candidate is acrylonitrile, a precursor to a wide variety of plastics and fibers that is currently derived from propylene. Karp
et al.
efficiently manufactured this compound from an ester (ethyl 3-hydroxypropanoate) that can be sourced renewably from sugars. The process relies on inexpensive titania as a catalyst and avoids the side production of cyanide that accompanies propylene oxidation.

Science
, this issue p.
1307
Firearms and accidental deaths: Evidence from the aftermath of the Sandy Hook school shooting
Authors: Levine Phillip B. , McKnight Robin
Published: December 2017

One cause of accidental deaths

The number of accidental deaths involving a firearm might be expected to correlate with the number of firearms, but claims that a causal relationship exists have not been persuasive (see the Policy Forum by Cook and Donohue). The 2012 mass shooting at an elementary school in the eastern United States resulted in the deaths of 20 children. Levine and McKnight used the random timing of this event and the subsequent increase in gun purchases (as recorded by an increased number of background checks) to show that the increased exposure to guns resulted in ∼60 accidental deaths.

Science
, this issue p.
1324
see also p.
1259
Different mutational rates and mechanisms in human cells at pregastrulation and neurogenesis
Authors: Bae Taejeong , Tomasini Livia , Mariani Jessica , Zhou Bo , Roychowdhury Tanmoy , Franjic Daniel , Pletikos Mihovil , Pattni Reenal , Chen Bo-Juen , Venturini Elisa , Riley-Gillis Bridget , Sestan Nenad , Urban Alexander E. , Abyzov Alexej , Vaccarino Flora M.
Published: December 2017

Brain mutations, young and old

Most neurons that make up the human brain are postmitotic, living and functioning for a very long time without renewal (see the Perspective by Lee). Bae
et al.
examined the genomes of single neurons from the prenatal developing human brain. Both the type of mutation and the rates of accumulation changed between gastrulation and neurogenesis. These early mutations could be generating useful neuronal diversity or could predispose individuals to later dysfunction. Lodato
et al.
also found that neurons take on somatic mutations as they age by sequencing single neurons from subjects aged 4 months to 82 years. Somatic mutations accumulated with increasing age and accumulated faster in individuals affected by inborn errors in DNA repair. Postmitotic mutations might only affect one neuron, but the accumulated divergence of genomes across the brain could affect function.

Science
, this issue p.
550
, p.
555
; see also p.
521
Response to Comment on “Cognition-mediated evolution of low-quality floral nectars”
Authors: Nachev Vladislav , Winter York
Published: December 2017

Pyke and Waser claim that our virtual pollination ecology model makes unrealistic assumptions and fails to predict observed nectar concentrations of bat flowers and negative correlations between pollinator body size and sugar concentration. In their comment, crucial model features are misrepresented, misunderstood, or ignored. Sensitivity to the supply/demand ratio explains both the equilibrium concentrations and the selection for lower concentrations by larger pollinators.
Paradoxical escape responses by narwhals (
Monodon monoceros
)
Authors: Williams Terrie M. , Blackwell Susanna B. , Richter Beau , Sinding Mikkel-Holger S. , Heide-Jørgensen Mads Peter
Published: December 2017

The flight of the narwhal

Animals tend to respond to threats with the well-known behaviors of fight, flee, or freeze, each of which requires a different suite of physiological responses. Marine mammals face particular challenges because they may flee into an environment where oxygen is not available and pressure must be accommodated. Williams
et al.
placed a submersible electrocardiograph, depth, and acceleration recorder on narwhals after they were freed from entanglement. The animals displayed contrary cardiovascular responses simultaneously, which placed extreme stress on the cardiovascular system and the tissues that it protects.

Science
, this issue p.
1328
Structural basis for methylphosphonate biosynthesis
Authors: Born David A. , Ulrich Emily C. , Ju Kou-San , Peck Spencer C. , van der Donk Wilfred A. , Drennan Catherine L.
Published: December 2017

A source of methane in the upper ocean

Methane concentrations are high in oxygenated surface waters. Methylphosphonate (MPn) is a suggested source, but an enzyme that synthesizes Mpn (MPnS) has so far only been identified in one ocean microbe, albeit an abundant one: the archaeon
Nitrosopumilus maritimus
. Born
et al.
describe the crystal structure of MPnS and of a related enzyme that acts on the same substrate but makes a different product. By comparing the structures, they determined sequence markers that allowed them to identify MPnS in other ocean microbes, including the abundant microbe
Pelagibacter ubique
. These findings support the proposal that MPn is a source of both methane and phosphorus in the upper aerobic ocean.

Science
, this issue p.
1336
Resonantly driven CNOT gate for electron spins
Authors: Zajac D. M. , Sigillito A. J. , Russ M. , Borjans F. , Taylor J. M. , Burkard G. , Petta J. R.
Published: December 2017

Building an essential quantum component

To build a universal quantum computer—the kind that can handle any computational task you throw at it—an essential early step is to demonstrate the so-called CNOT gate, which acts on two qubits. Zajac
et al.
built an efficient CNOT gate by using electron spin qubits in silicon quantum dots, an implementation that is especially appealing because of its compatibility with existing semiconductor-based electronics (see the Perspective by Schreiber and Bluhm). To showcase the potential, the authors used the gate to create an entangled quantum state called the Bell state.

Science
, this issue p.
439
; see also p.
393
Concerns for ozone recovery
Authors: Liang Qing , Strahan Susan E. , Fleming Eric L.
Published: December 2017

Climate change mitigation and compliance with the Montreal Protocol are crucial for ozone layer recovery
TRP'ing up chronic kidney disease
Authors: Chung Jun-Jae , Shaw Andrey S.
Published: December 2017

Blockade of a specific calcium channel can slow chronic kidney disease progression
Structure of the human TRPM4 ion channel in a lipid nanodisc
Authors: Autzen Henriette E. , Myasnikov Alexander G. , Campbell Melody G. , Asarnow Daniel , Julius David , Cheng Yifan
Published: December 2017

Architecture of the TRPM subfamily

Transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM) ion channels constitute the largest TRP subfamily and are involved in many physiological processes. TRPM8 is the primary cold and menthol sensor, and TRPM4 is associated with cardiovascular disorders. Yin
et al.
and Autzen
et al.
shed light on the general architecture of the TRPM subfamily by solving the structures of TRPM8 and TRPM4, respectively (see the Perspective by Bae
et al.
). The three-layered architecture of the TRPM8 channel provides the framework for understanding the mechanisms of cold and menthol sensing. The two distinct closed states of TRPM4, with and without calcium, reveal a calcium-binding site and calcium-binding-induced conformational changes.

Science
, this issue p.
237
, p.
228
; see also p.
160
Tax plans and science
Authors: Berg Jeremy
Published: December 2017

The United States Congress has been taking steps toward passage of a law that would dramatically modify income tax policy. At the time of this writing, different bills have been passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate, and the process of reconciling these into a single bill is under way. These have several provisions that directly affect higher education, including science training. Disturbingly, these provisions emerged from a remarkably opaque process with little or no discussion of their policy objectives or analysis of data that would inform these important decisions.
Interaction of Antibiotics with Innate Host Defense Factors against Salmonella enterica Serotype Newport
Authors: Sakoulas George , Kumaraswamy Monika , Kousha Armin , Nizet Victor
Published: December 2017

It is becoming increasingly understood that the current paradigms of
in vitro
antimicrobial susceptibility testing may have significant shortcomings in predicting activity
in vivo
. This study evaluated the activity of several antibiotics alone and in combination against clinical isolates of
Salmonella enterica
serotype Newport (meningitis case) utilizing both conventional and physiological media. In addition, the interactions of these antibiotics with components of the innate immune system were evaluated. Azithromycin, which has performed quite well clinically despite high MICs in conventional media, was shown to be more active in physiological media and to enhance innate immune system killing. Alternatively, chloramphenicol did not show enhanced immune system killing, paralleling its inferior clinical performance to other antibiotics that have been used to treat
Salmonella
meningitis. These findings are important additions to the building understanding of current
in vitro
antimicrobial assay limitations that hopefully will amount to future improvements in these assays to better predict clinical efficacy and activity
in vivo
.
Novel Concepts for HIV Vaccine Vector Design
Authors: Alayo Quazim A. , Provine Nicholas M. , Penaloza-MacMaster Pablo
Published: December 2017

The unprecedented challenges of developing effective vaccines against intracellular pathogens such as HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis have resulted in more rational approaches to vaccine development. Apart from the recent advances in the design and selection of improved epitopes and adjuvants, there are also ongoing efforts to optimize delivery platforms.
Persistence of Supplemented Bifidobacterium longum subsp.
infantis
EVC001 in Breastfed Infants
Authors: Frese Steven A. , Hutton Andra A. , Contreras Lindsey N. , Shaw Claire A. , Palumbo Michelle C. , Casaburi Giorgio , Xu Gege , Davis Jasmine C. C. , Lebrilla Carlito B. , Henrick Bethany M. , Freeman Samara L. , Barile Daniela , German J. Bruce , Mills David A. , Smilowitz Jennifer T. , Underwood Mark A.
Published: December 2017

The gut microbiome in early life plays an important role for long-term health and is shaped in large part by diet. Probiotics may contribute to improvements in health, but they have not been shown to alter the community composition of the gut microbiome. Here, we found that breastfed infants could be stably colonized at high levels by provision of
B. infantis
EVC001, with significant changes to the overall microbiome composition persisting more than a month later, whether the infants were born vaginally or by caesarean section. This observation is consistent with previous studies demonstrating the capacity of this subspecies to utilize human milk glycans as a nutrient and underscores the importance of pairing a probiotic organism with a specific substrate. Colonization by
B. infantis
EVC001 resulted in significant changes to fecal microbiome composition and was associated with improvements in fecal biochemistry. The combination of human milk and an infant-associated
Bifidobacterium
sp. shows, for the first time, that durable changes to the human gut microbiome are possible and are associated with improved gut function.
Updated birth weight centiles for England and Wales
Authors: Norris Tom , Seaton Sarah E , Manktelow Brad N , Baker Philip N , Kurinczuk Jennifer J , Field David , Draper Elizabeth S , Smith Lucy K
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Construct updated birth weight-for-gestational age centile charts for use in the UK and compare these to the currently used UK-WHO charts.

Design

Secondary analysis of national birth data.

Participants

Centiles were constructed using 1 269 403 singleton births occurring in England and Wales in 2013–2014 as part of the MBRRACE-UK national perinatal surveillance programme. These were then validated using 642 737 singleton births occurring in England and Wales in 2015.

Main outcome measures

Sex-specific birth weight-for-gestational age centiles. Centiles were created using the lambda-mu-sigma method via the GAMLSS package in R. This method transforms the skewed birth weight distribution to approximate a normal distribution, allowing any birth weight centile to be produced.

Results

The new centiles performed well in the validation sample, with the observed and expected proportion of births below a given centile in agreement. Overall, driven by the predominance of term births, the UK-WHO charts classify a smaller proportion of infants as below a given centile. For example, the UK-WHO estimates classified only 1.32% (8035/606 430) of term infants born in 2015 as below the second centile, compared with 1.97% (11 975/606 430) using the new MBRRACE-UK centiles. At the earliest gestational ages, however, the opposite is observed, with the UK-WHO classifying a larger proportion of infants as below a given centile, particularly at the lower end of the birthweight distribution.

Conclusions

We have constructed and validated updated birth weight-for-gestational age centiles using a contemporary sample of births occurring in England and Wales. The benefits of these updated centiles will be first to assist the national surveillance of perinatal mortality programme by improving the identification of the proportion of stillbirths and neonatal deaths affected by intrauterine growth restriction and, second, to aid clinicians by more accurately identifying babies who require increased monitoring in the period immediately following birth.
Imaging-detected acute muscle injuries in athletes participating in the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Summer Olympic Games
Authors: Crema Michel D , Jarraya Mohamed , Engebretsen Lars , Roemer Frank W , Hayashi Daichi , Domingues Romulo , Skaf Abdalla Y , Guermazi Ali
Published: December 2017

Background

Acute muscle injuries in elite athletes are responsible for a large portion of time loss injuries.

Aim

To describe the frequency, the anatomic distribution, and severity of imaging-detected acute muscle injuries among athletes who competed in the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Summer Olympics.

Methods

We recorded all sports injuries reported by the National Olympic Committee medical teams and the Organising Committee medical staff during the 2016 Summer Olympics. Imaging of acute muscle injuries was performed at the IOC’s polyclinic within the Olympic Village using ultrasound and 3.0 T and 1.5 T MRI scanners. The assessment of images was performed centrally by three musculoskeletal radiologists. The distribution of injuries by anatomic location and sports discipline and the severity of injuries were recorded.

Results

In total, 11 274 athletes from 207 teams were included. A total of 1101 injuries were reported. Central review of radiological images revealed 81 acute muscle injuries in 77 athletes (66% male, mean age: 25.4 years, range 18–38 years). Athletics (track and field) athletes were the most commonly affected (n=39, 48%), followed by football players (n=9, 11%). The majority of injuries affected muscles from lower limbs (n=68, 84%), with the hamstring being the most commonly involved. Most injuries were grade 2 injuries according to the Peetrons classification (n=44, 54%), and we found 18 injuries exhibiting intramuscular tendon involvement on MRI.

Conclusion

Imaging-detected acute muscle injuries during the 2016 Summer Olympics affected mainly thigh muscles in athletics disciplines.
Trials of transvaginal mesh devices for pelvic organ prolapse: a systematic database review of the US FDA approval process
Authors: Heneghan Carl J , Goldacre Ben , Onakpoya Igho , Aronson Jeffrey K , Jefferson Tom , Pluddemann Annette , Mahtani Kamal R
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Transvaginal mesh devices are approved in the USA by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), through the 510(k) system. However, there is uncertainty about the benefit to harm balance of mesh approved for pelvic organ prolapse. We, therefore, assessed the evidence at the time of approval for transvaginal mesh products and the impact of safety studies the FDA mandated in 2012 because of emerging harms.

Methods

We used FDA databases to determine the evidence for approval of transvaginal mesh. To create a ‘family tree’ of device equivalence, we used the 510(k) regulatory approval of the 1985 Mersilene Mesh (Ethicon) and the 1996 ProteGen Sling (Boston Scientific), searched for all subsequently related device approvals, and for the first published randomised trial evidence. We assessed compliance with all FDA 522 orders issued in 2012 requiring postmarketing surveillance studies.

Results

We found 61 devices whose approval ultimately relied on claimed equivalence to the Mersilene Mesh and the ProteGen Sling. We found no clinical trials evidence for these 61 devices at the time of approval. Publication of randomised clinical trials occurred at a median of 5 years after device approval (range 1–14 years). Analysis of 119 FDA 522 orders revealed that in 79 (66%) the manufacturer ceased market distribution of the device, and in 26 (22%) the manufacturer had changed the indication. Only seven studies (six cohorts and new randomised controlled trial) covering 11 orders were recruiting participants (none had reported outcomes).

Conclusions

Transvaginal mesh products for pelvic organ prolapse have been approved on the basis of weak evidence over the last 20 years. Devices have inherited approval status from a few products. A publicly accessible registry of licensed invasive devices, with details of marketing status and linked evidence, should be created and maintained at the time of approval.
Novel United Kingdom prognostic model for 30-day mortality following transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Martin Glen P , Sperrin Matthew , Ludman Peter F , de Belder Mark A , Redwood Simon R , Townend Jonathan N , Gunning Mark , Moat Neil E , Banning Adrian P , Buchan Iain , Mamas Mamas A
Published: December 2017

Objective

Existing clinical prediction models (CPM) for short-term mortality after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) have limited applicability in the UK due to moderate predictive performance and inconsistent recording practices across registries. The aim of this study was to derive a UK-TAVI CPM to predict 30-day mortality risk for benchmarking purposes.

Methods

A two-step modelling strategy was undertaken: first, data from the UK-TAVI Registry between 2009 and 2014 were used to develop a multivariable logistic regression CPM using backwards stepwise regression. Second, model-updating techniques were applied using the 2013–2014 data, thereby leveraging new approaches to include frailty and to ensure the model was reflective of contemporary practice. Internal validation was performed by bootstrapping to estimate in-sample optimism-corrected performance.

Results

Between 2009 and 2014, up to 6339 patients were included across 34 centres in the UK-TAVI Registry (mean age, 81.3; 2927 female (46.2%)). The observed 30-day mortality rate was 5.14%. The final UK-TAVI CPM included 15 risk factors, which included two variables associated with frailty. After correction for in-sample optimism, the model was well calibrated, with a calibration intercept of 0.02 (95% CI −0.17 to 0.20) and calibration slope of 0.79 (95% CI 0.55 to 1.03). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, after adjustment for in-sample optimism, was 0.66.

Conclusion

The UK-TAVI CPM demonstrated strong calibration and moderate discrimination in UK-TAVI patients. This model shows potential for benchmarking, but even the inclusion of frailty did not overcome the need for more wide-ranging data and other outcomes might usefully be explored.