bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate variability and the dichotomy in male–female school attendance: a case study of Zamfara State in semi‐arid Nigeria
Authors: Adejuwon Joseph O.
Published: January 2018

This study examines the response of male and female school attendance to climate in Zamfara State, Nigeria from 1970 to 2006. Bivariate (Spearman) correlation, pairwise t‐test, standardised anomaly index and descriptive statistics were used to analyse climate, school enrolment and attendance data. Results showed that 71.52% of males and 28.48% of females attended school. The male pupil population was larger than the female pupil population at all schools, while the female dropout rate was greater than that of males at seven schools. Male attendance was highest at Township 1 Special Model Primary School, Gusau, and female attendance was highest at A Tunalim Primary School, Talata‐Mafara, while both were lowest at Wuya Model Primary School, Anka. Male school attendance and its total varied by school, from 30 to 3430 pupils, and the rate of attendance varied between 53.17 and 92.26%; female attendance varied between 4 and 1570 pupils. Both male and female pupils recorded low attendance and high dropout rates in drought years. The total annual dropout of male pupils at each school varied from 1 to 200, with a rate of between 36.26 and 81.53%, while annual female dropout varied from 1 to 100, with a rate of between 18.47 and 63.74%. The total dropout rate of the whole school population was 2.75% (1.62% male and 1.13% female); 58.79% of students who dropped out were male and 41.21% were female, accounting for 2.26% of the male and 3.97% of the female school population. Temperature showed no significant correlation with attendance. Rainfall had a more significant relationship with school attendance for male pupils than female pupils at P ≤ 0.05. The extent to which rainfall significantly determined school attendance varied from 14.82 to 25.91%. A pairwise t‐test showed a significant difference between male and female pupils' school attendance at all schools. This study concludes that climate affected male pupils more than female pupils.
Mode Locking Based on the Temporal Talbot Effect
Authors: Udem Thomas , Ozawa Akira
Published: January 2018

We propose a new laser mode locking state in which the pulse disperses quickly and then revives after a certain time. This mechanism is based on the temporal Talbot effect and requires a large amount of intra-cavity group velocity dispersion. Similar to the usual mode locking it should be possible to employ the Kerr effect to force the laser into this mode, even when the cold cavity dispersion is not exactly matched. We show that the mode spectrum of such a laser is not equidistant but increases linearly with very high precision. This Talbot frequency comb can be self referenced. The beating with the adjacent modes uniquely defines the optical mode frequency, which means that the optical spectrum is directly mapped into the radio frequency domain. This is similar to the dual frequency comb technique, albeit without the limiting relative jitter between two combs.
Single-Slit Focusing and Its Representations
Authors: Gonçalves Manuel R. , Case William B. , Arie Ady , Schleich Wolfgang P.
Published: January 2018

We illustrate the phenomenon of the focusing of a freely propagating rectangular wave packet using three different tools: (1) the time-dependent wave function in position space, (2) the Wigner phase-space approach, and (3) an experiment using laser light.
Ultracold Metastable Helium: Ramsey Fringes and Atom Interferometry
Authors: Vassen W. , Notermans R. P. M. J. W. , Rengelink R. J. , van der Beek R. F. H. J.
Published: January 2018

We report on interference studies in the internal and external degrees of freedom of metastable triplet helium atoms trapped near quantum degeneracy in a

$$ 1.5\kern0.166667em \upmu \mathrm{m} $$

1.5

μ
m

optical dipole trap. Applying a single

$$ \pi /2 $$

π
/
2

rf pulse we demonstrate that 50% of the atoms initially in the

$$ m=+1 $$

m
=
+
1

state can be transferred to the magnetic field insensitive

$$ m=0 $$

m
=
0

state. Two

$$ \pi /2 $$

π
/
2

pulses with varying time delay allow a Ramsey-type measurement of the Zeeman shift for a high precision measurement of the

$$ {2}^3{S}_1 $$

2

3

S
1

–

$$ {2}^1{S}_0 $$

2

1

S
0

transition frequency. We show that this method also allows strong suppression of mean-field effects on the measurement of the Zeeman shift, which is necessary to reach the accuracy goal of 0.1 kHz on the absolute transition frequencies. Theoretically the feasibility of using metastable triplet helium atoms in the

$$ m=0 $$

m
=
0

state for atom interferometry is studied demonstrating favorable conditions, compared to the alkali atoms that are used traditionally, for a non-QED determination of the fine structure constant.
Cavity Ring-Up Spectroscopy for Dissipative and Dispersive Sensing in a Whispering Gallery Mode Resonator
Authors: Yang Yong , Madugani Ramgopal , Kasumie Sho , Ward Jonathan M. , Nic Chormaic Síle
Published: January 2018

In whispering gallery mode resonator sensing applications, the conventional way to detect a change in the parameter to be measured is by observing the steady-state transmission spectrum through the coupling waveguide. Alternatively, sensing based on cavity ring-up spectroscopy, i.e. CRUS, can be achieved transiently. In this work, we investigate CRUS using coupled mode equations and find analytical solutions with a large spectral broadening approximation of the input pulse. The relationships between the frequency detuning, coupling gap and ring-up peak height are determined and experimentally verified using an ultrahigh Q-factor silica microsphere. This work shows that distinctive dispersive and dissipative transient sensing can be realised by simply measuring the peak height of the CRUS signal, which may improve the data collection rate.
Precision Measurements and Test of Molecular Theory in Highly Excited Vibrational States of H2 (v11)
Authors: Trivikram T. Madhu , Niu M. L. , Wcisło P. , Ubachs W. , Salumbides E. J.
Published: January 2018

Accurate

$$ E{F}^1{\varSigma}_g^{+}-{X}^1{\varSigma}_g^{+} $$

E

F
1

Σ
g
+

-

X
1

Σ
g
+

transition energies in molecular hydrogen were determined for transitions originating from levels with highly excited vibrational quantum number, v = 11, in the ground electronic state. Doppler-free two-photon spectroscopy was applied on vibrationally excited

$$ {\mathrm{H}}_2^{\ast } $$

H
2
∗

, produced via the photodissociation of H2S, yielding transition frequencies with accuracies of 45 MHz or 0.0015 cm−1. An important improvement is the enhanced detection efficiency by resonant excitation to autoionizing

$$ 7 p\pi $$

7
p
π

electronic Rydberg states, resulting in narrow transitions due to reduced ac-Stark effects. Using known EF level energies, the level energies of X(v = 11, J = 1, 3–5) states are derived with accuracies of typically 0.002 cm−1. These experimental values are in excellent agreement with and are more accurate than the results obtained from the most advanced ab initio molecular theory calculations including relativistic and QED contributions.
Ranging with Frequency-Shifted Feedback Lasers: From μm-Range Accuracy to MHz-Range Measurement Rate
Authors: Kim J. I. , Ogurtsov V. V. , Bonnet G. , Yatsenko L. P. , Bergmann K.
Published: January 2018

We report results on ranging based on frequency-shifted feedback (FSF) lasers with two different implementations: (1) An Ytterbium-fiber system for measurements in an industrial environment with accuracy of the order of 1

$$ \upmu \mathrm{m} $$

μ
m

, achievable over a distance of the order of meters with potential to reach an accuracy of better than 100 nm; (2) A semiconductor laser system for a high rate of measurements with an accuracy of 2 mm @ 1 MHz or 75

$$ \upmu \mathrm{m} $$

μ
m

@ 1 kHz and a limit of the accuracy of

$$ \ge $$

≥

10

$$ \upmu \mathrm{m} $$

μ
m

. In both implementations, the distances information is derived from a frequency measurement. The method is therefore insensitive to detrimental influence of ambient light. For the Ytterbium-fiber system, a key feature is the injection of a single-frequency laser, phase modulated at variable frequency

$$ \varOmega $$

Ω

, into the FSF-laser cavity. The frequency

$$ {\varOmega}_{\mathrm{max}} $$

Ω
max

at which the detector signal is maximal yields the distance. The semiconductor FSF-laser system operates without external injection seeding. In this case, the key feature is frequency counting that allows convenient choice of either accuracy or speed of measurements simply by changing the duration of the interval during which the frequency is measured by counting.
Measuring and Imaging Nanomechanical Motion with Laser Light
Authors: Barg Andreas , Tsaturyan Yeghishe , Belhage Erik , Nielsen William H. P. , Møller Christoffer B. , Schliesser Albert
Published: January 2018

We discuss several techniques based on laser-driven interferometers and cavities to measure nanomechanical motion. With increasing complexity, they achieve sensitivities reaching from thermal displacement amplitudes, typically at the picometer scale, all the way to the quantum regime, in which radiation pressure induces motion correlated with the quantum fluctuations of the probing light. We show that an imaging modality is readily provided by scanning laser interferometry, reaching a sensitivity on the order of

$$ 10\kern0.166667em \mathrm{fm}/{\mathrm{Hz}}^{1/2} $$

10

fm
/

Hz

1
/
2

, and a transverse resolution down to

$$ 2\kern0.166667em \upmu \mathrm{m} $$

2

μ
m

. We compare this approach with a less versatile, but faster (single-shot) dark-field imaging technique.
Globotriaosylsphingosine (Lyso‐Gb3) as a biomarker for cardiac variant (N215S) Fabry disease
Authors: Alharbi Fahad J. , Baig Shanat , Auray‐Blais Christiane , Boutin Michel , Ward Douglas G. , Wheeldon Nigel , Steed Rick , Dawson Charlotte , Hughes Derralynn , Geberhiwot Tarekegn
Published: January 2018

Fabry disease (FD) is a multi‐systemic X‐linked lysosomal disorder caused by the deficient activity of α‐galactosidase‐A enzyme, which leads to accumulation of glycosphingolipids in various body tissues. The N215S mutation is a known variant of FD, with a late onset cardiac phenotype. Consensus guidelines acknowledged the use of globotriaosylsphingosine (Lyso‐Gb3) as a diagnostic marker for classical FD but its utility for cardiac variant FD is not clear. We aim to characterize the clinical features and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of plasma and urinary Lyso‐Gb3 levels in N215S cardiac variant FD patients. Thirty‐four FD patients with the late‐onset N215S cardiac variant mutation were enrolled along with 62 classical FD patients and 109 healthy controls. Plasma and urinary Lyso‐Gb3 and its analogues were analyzed by LC‐MS/MS. Both FD males and females with N215S mutation showed Lyso‐Gb3 levels of (mean ± SEM) 9.7 ± 1.0 and 5.4 ± 0.8 nM, respectively. These levels were significantly higher than healthy control and lower than classical FD patients (p < 0.0001). Plasma Lyso‐Gb3 levels equal to or higher than 2.7 nM yielded a diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 100% (AUC = 1, p < 0.0001). Cardiac involvement was frequent with 16/34 (47%) developing left ventricular hypertrophy. Three patients who underwent renal biopsy had the characteristic sphingolipid deposition in the podocytes while 6/19 (32%) had evidence of white matter changes or infarct on brain MRI. Taken together, cardiac variant N215S mutation is rather an attenuated form of classical FD. Plasma Lyso‐Gb3 is a diagnostic hallmark to differentiate N215S variant phenotype from subjects with no FD.
Is maternal depression related to mother and adolescent reports of family functioning?☆
Authors: Pérez J. Carola , Coo Soledad , Irarrázaval Matías
Published: January 2018

While adolescent‐parent disagreements about family functioning are common, they may also be indicative of family members' health problems and may compromise adolescent adjustment. This study examines the association between maternal depressive symptoms and family functioning perceptions, considering both the adolescents' and their mothers' points of view. A sample of 943 Chilean dyads of adolescents (69% female, Mage = 14.43 years old) and their mothers (Mage = 43.20 years) reported their perceptions of family cohesion and adaptability. Mothers also reported their depressive symptoms. Results indicated that mothers perceived their family as more cohesive and more adaptable than their children. There was a negative association between maternal and adolescent reports of family cohesion and maternal depressive symptoms. In the mother’ reports, this association depended on adolescent's age. In the case of adolescents' reports, this association depended on adolescent's gender. Finally, maternal depressive symptoms were a significant predictor of mother‐adolescent agreement about family cohesion.
Zombie-ant fungi across continents: 15 new species and new combinations within Ophiocordyceps. I. Myrmecophilous hirsutelloidÂ species
Authors: Araújo J.P.M. , Evans H.C. , Kepler R. , Hughes D.P.
Published: January 2018

Ophiocordyceps species infecting ants – the so-called zombie-ant fungi – comprise one of the most intriguing and fascinating relationships between microbes and animals. They are widespread within tropical forests worldwide, with relatively few reports from temperate
ecosystems. These pathogens possess the ability to manipulate host behaviour in order to increase their own fitness. Depending on the fungal species involved the infected ants are manipulated either to leave the nest to ascend understorey shrubs, to die biting onto vegetation, or descend from
the canopy to die at the base of trees. Experimental evidence has demonstrated that the behavioural change aids spore dispersal and thus increases the chances of infection, because of the existing behavioural immunity expressed inside ant colonies that limits fungal development and transmission.
Despite their undoubted importance for ecosystem functioning, these fungal pathogens are still poorly documented, especially regarding their diversity, ecology and evolutionary relationships. Here, we describe 15 new species of Ophiocordyceps with hirsutella-like asexual morphs that
exclusively infect ants. These form a monophyletic group that we identified in this study as myrmecophilous hirsutelloid species. We also propose new combinations for species previously described as varieties and provide for the first time important morphological and ecological information.
The species proposed herein were collected in Brazil, Colombia, USA, Australia and Japan. All species could readily be separated using classic taxonomic criteria, in particular ascospore and asexual morphology.
The epistemic import of aspectual constructions: the case of performatives
Authors: DE WIT ASTRID , BRISARD FRANK , MEEUWIS MICHAEL
Published: January 2018

abstract

In this study we chart the aspectual characteristics of performative utterances in a cross-linguistic sample of sixteen languages on the basis of native-speaker elicitations. We conclude that there is not one single aspectual type (e.g., perfectives) that is systematically reserved for performative contexts. Instead, the aspectual form of performative utterances in a given language isepistemicallymotivated, in the sense that the language will turn to that aspectual construction which it generally selects to refer to situations that are fully and instantly identifiable as an instance of a given situation type at the time of speaking. We use the method of Multidimensional Scaling to demonstrate this: whatever the exact value of a given aspectual marker, if it is used to mark performatives, then it also commonly features in the expression of states and habits, which have the subinterval property (they can be fully verified based on a random segment), demonstrations, and other special contexts featuring more or less predictable and therefore instantly identifiable events. On the other hand, our study shows that performative contexts do not normally feature progressive aspect, which is dedicated to the expression of events that are not fully and instantly identifiable.
Neuroimaging findings in post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Hull Alastair M.
Published: January 2018

Background

Findings from neuroimaging studies complement our understanding of the wide-ranging neurobiological changes in trauma survivors who develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Language, Concepts, and Emotions in Charles Taylor’sThe Language Animal
Authors: DEMMERLING CHRISTOPH
Published: January 2018

Human beings shape the landscapes of their individual, social, and political lives entangled in a web of language. Everything that human beings do, the way they act and think, is shaped by the use of language. Charles Taylor explores these anthropological dimensions of language. This article discusses three different aspects of Taylor’s language-oriented anthropology and confronts his considerations with three distinct questions concerning the relation between language and the lives of human beings. The first question is how Taylor’s constitutive view of language can be related to his criticism of the mediational view of language. Next, the relation between language and concepts is discussed. Finally, emotions are considered.
The Learner of Language: Communion, Resonance and Pedagogical Practice
Authors: BELJAN JENS
Published: January 2018

This paper focuses on the process of language acquisition in childhood. Departing from accounts—such as that of Jean Piaget, which considers cognitive development as the main condition of language acquisition—Taylor shows how deeply our linguistic capacity is rooted in a prior socio-affective realm of social spaces or communion. Beyond Taylor, the question arises as to whether one can identify different normative consequences for pedagogical practices, as well as for the status of childhood in social theory. The implications of Taylor’s language theory for the relation between human and world will be suggested by connecting the intrinsic dimensions of linguistic communication to the theory of resonance.
The 2017 Seventh World Congress of Pediatric Cardiology & Cardiac Surgery: week in review: imaging
Authors: Selamet Tierney Elif S.
Published: December 2017

The Imaging Program at the 7th World Congress highlighted the versatility and diagnostic power of the current and upcoming imaging tools in Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery. Several experts presented interesting as well as practical data on the use of 2D and 3D Echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography in the fetus, child, and adult with congenital heart disease. Bridging sessions coupled use of these imaging modalities and screening practices in patients with acquired heart disease. Hot topics included nomenclature of ventricular septal defects, the challenging diagnosis of double outlet right ventricle, cardiac tumors, and imaging of aortapathies. Several talks concentrated on the quantitative assessment of ventricular function and reviewed numerous exciting new modalities that currently serve as research tools. In summary, Imaging Sessions truly represented how far we have advanced the field of Imaging in Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery.
A 12-Month Clinical Audit Comparing Point-of-Care Lactate Measurements Tested by Paramedics with In-Hospital Serum Lactate Measurements
Authors: Swan Kristi L. , Keene Toby , Avard Bronwyn J.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Prehospital point-of-care lactate (pLA) measurement may be a useful tool to assist paramedics with diagnosing a range of conditions, but only if it can be shown to be a reliable surrogate for serum lactate (sLA) measurement. The aim of this study was to determine whether pLA is a reliable predictor of sLA.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of adult patients over a 12-month period who had pLA measured by paramedics in an urban Australian setting and were transported by ambulance to a tertiary hospital where sLA was measured. Patients were excluded if they suffered a cardiopulmonary arrest at any time, had missing data, or if sLA was not measured within 24 hours of arrival. Levels of agreement were determined using methods proposed by Bland and Altman.

Results

A total of 290 patients were transported with a pLA recorded. After exclusions, there were 155 patients (55.0% male; age 71 [SD=18] years) remaining who had sLA recorded within 24 hours. Elevated pLA (>2.0mMol/L) was associated with sLA measurement (76.1% vs 23.9%; OR 3.18; 95% CI, 1.88-5.37; P<.0001). Median time between measurements was 89 minutes (IQR=75). Overall, median pLA was higher than sLA (3.0 [IQR=2.0] mMol/L vs 1.7 [IQR=1.3]; P<.001). Bland-Altman analysis on all participants showed a mean difference of 1.48 mMol/L (95% CI, -3.34 to 6.31). Normal pLA was found to be a true negative in 82.9% of cases, and elevated pLA was a true positive in 48.3% of cases. When the time between measurements was less than 60 minutes (n=25), normal pLA predicted normal sLA with 100% accuracy, with a false-positive rate of 18.2%. As time between measurements increased, accuracy diminished and the false-positive rate increased.

Conclusions

Overall, the level of agreement between pLA and sLA was poor. Accuracy of pLA diminished markedly as the time between the two measurements increased. It may be possible to use pLA as a screening tool; when considered this way, pLA performed much better, though larger prospective trials would be needed to confirm this.

SwanKL, KeeneT, AvardBJ. A 12-month clinical audit comparing point-of-care lactate measurements tested by paramedics with in-hospital serum lactate measurements. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2018;33(1):36–42.
Dynamic changes in carbonate chemistry in the microenvironment around single marine phytoplankton cells
Authors: Chrachri Abdul , Hopkinson Brian M. , Flynn Kevin , Brownlee Colin , Wheeler Glen L.
Published: January 2018

Photosynthesis by marine diatoms plays a major role in the global carbon cycle, although the precise mechanisms of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) uptake remain unclear. A lack of direct measurements of carbonate chemistry at the cell surface has led to uncertainty over the underlying membrane transport processes and the role of external carbonic anhydrase (eCA). Here we identify rapid and substantial photosynthesis-driven increases in pH and [CO32−] primarily due to the activity of eCA at the cell surface of the large diatom Odontella sinensis using direct simultaneous microelectrode measurements of pH and CO32− along with modelling of cell surface inorganic carbonate chemistry. Our results show that eCA acts to maintain cell surface CO2 concentrations, making a major contribution to DIC supply in O. sinensis. Carbonate chemistry at the cell surface is therefore highly dynamic and strongly dependent on cell size, morphology and the carbonate chemistry of the bulk seawater.
Yolk sac macrophage progenitors traffic to the embryo during defined stages of development
Authors: Stremmel C. , Schuchert R. , Wagner F. , Thaler R. , Weinberger T. , Pick R. , Mass E. , Ishikawa-Ankerhold H. C. , Margraf A. , Hutter S. , Vagnozzi R. , Klapproth S. , Frampton J. , Yona S. , Scheiermann C. , Molkentin J. D. , Jeschke U. , Moser M. , Sperandio M. , Massberg S. , Geissmann F. , Schulz C.
Published: January 2018

Tissue macrophages in many adult organs originate from yolk sac (YS) progenitors, which invade the developing embryo and persist by means of local self-renewal. However, the route and characteristics of YS macrophage trafficking during embryogenesis are incompletely understood. Here we show the early migration dynamics of YS-derived macrophage progenitors in vivo using fate mapping and intravital microscopy. From embryonic day 8.5 (E8.5) CX3CR1+ pre-macrophages are present in the mouse YS where they rapidly proliferate and gain access to the bloodstream to migrate towards the embryo. Trafficking of pre-macrophages and their progenitors from the YS to tissues peaks around E10.5, dramatically decreases towards E12.5 and is no longer evident from E14.5 onwards. Thus, YS progenitors use the vascular system during a restricted time window of embryogenesis to invade the growing fetus. These findings close an important gap in our understanding of the development of the innate immune system.
Achieving the Heisenberg limit in quantum metrology using quantum error correction
Authors: Zhou Sisi , Zhang Mengzhen , Preskill John , Jiang Liang
Published: January 2018

Quantum metrology has many important applications in science and technology, ranging from frequency spectroscopy to gravitational wave detection. Quantum mechanics imposes a fundamental limit on measurement precision, called the Heisenberg limit, which can be achieved for noiseless quantum systems, but is not achievable in general for systems subject to noise. Here we study how measurement precision can be enhanced through quantum error correction, a general method for protecting a quantum system from the damaging effects of noise. We find a necessary and sufficient condition for achieving the Heisenberg limit using quantum probes subject to Markovian noise, assuming that noiseless ancilla systems are available, and that fast, accurate quantum processing can be performed. When the sufficient condition is satisfied, a quantum error-correcting code can be constructed that suppresses the noise without obscuring the signal; the optimal code, achieving the best possible precision, can be found by solving a semidefinite program.
Gas hydrate dissociation off Svalbard induced by isostatic rebound rather than global warming
Authors: Wallmann Klaus , Riedel M. , Hong W. L. , Patton H. , Hubbard A. , Pape T. , Hsu C. W. , Schmidt C. , Johnson J. E. , Torres M. E. , Andreassen K. , Berndt C. , Bohrmann G.
Published: January 2018

Methane seepage from the upper continental slopes of Western Svalbard has previously been attributed to gas hydrate dissociation induced by anthropogenic warming of ambient bottom waters. Here we show that sediment cores drilled off Prins Karls Foreland contain freshwater from dissociating hydrates. However, our modeling indicates that the observed pore water freshening began around 8 ka BP when the rate of isostatic uplift outpaced eustatic sea-level rise. The resultant local shallowing and lowering of hydrostatic pressure forced gas hydrate dissociation and dissolved chloride depletions consistent with our geochemical analysis. Hence, we propose that hydrate dissociation was triggered by postglacial isostatic rebound rather than anthropogenic warming. Furthermore, we show that methane fluxes from dissociating hydrates were considerably smaller than present methane seepage rates implying that gas hydrates were not a major source of methane to the oceans, but rather acted as a dynamic seal, regulating methane release from deep geological reservoirs.
Cryo EM structure of intact rotary H+-ATPase/synthase from Thermus thermophilus
Authors: Nakanishi Atsuko , Kishikawa Jun-ichi , Tamakoshi Masatada , Mitsuoka Kaoru , Yokoyama Ken
Published: January 2018

Proton translocating rotary ATPases couple ATP hydrolysis/synthesis, which occurs in the soluble domain, with proton flow through the membrane domain via a rotation of the common central rotor complex against the surrounding peripheral stator apparatus. Here, we present a large data set of single particle cryo-electron micrograph images of the V/A type H+-rotary ATPase from the bacterium Thermus thermophilus, enabling the identification of three rotational states based on the orientation of the rotor subunit. Using masked refinement and classification with signal subtractions, we obtain homogeneous reconstructions for the whole complexes and soluble V1 domains. These reconstructions are of higher resolution than any EM map of intact rotary ATPase reported previously, providing a detailed molecular basis for how the rotary ATPase maintains structural integrity of the peripheral stator apparatus, and confirming the existence of a clear proton translocation path from both sides of the membrane.
Experimental evidence for bipolaron condensation as a mechanism for the metal-insulator transition in rare-earth nickelates
Authors: Shamblin Jacob , Heres Maximilian , Zhou Haidong , Sangoro Joshua , Lang Maik , Neuefeind Joerg , Alonso J. A. , Johnston Steven
Published: January 2018

Many-body effects produce deviations from the predictions of conventional band theory in quantum materials, leading to strongly correlated phases with insulating or bad metallic behavior. One example is the rare-earth nickelates RNiO3, which undergo metal-to-insulator transitions (MITs) whose origin is debated. Here, we combine total neutron scattering and broadband dielectric spectroscopy experiments to study and compare carrier dynamics and local crystal structure in LaNiO3 and NdNiO3. We find that the local crystal structure of both materials is distorted in the metallic phase, with slow, thermally activated carrier dynamics at high temperature. We further observe a sharp change in conductivity across the MIT in NdNiO3, accompanied by slight differences in the carrier hopping time. These results suggest that changes in carrier concentration drive the MIT through a polaronic mechanism, where the (bi)polaron liquid freezes into the insulating phase across the MIT temperature.
Strain control of oxygen kinetics in the Ruddlesden-Popper oxide La1.85Sr0.15CuO4
Authors: Meyer Tricia L. , Jacobs Ryan , Lee Dongkyu , Jiang Lu , Freeland John W. , Sohn Changhee , Egami Takeshi , Morgan Dane , Lee Ho Nyung
Published: January 2018

Oxygen defect control has long been considered an important route to functionalizing complex oxide films. However, the nature of oxygen defects in thin films is often not investigated beyond basic redox chemistry. One of the model examples for oxygen-defect studies is the layered Ruddlesden–Popper phase La2−xSr
x
CuO4−δ (LSCO), in which the superconducting transition temperature is highly sensitive to epitaxial strain. However, previous observations of strain-superconductivity coupling in LSCO thin films were mainly understood in terms of elastic contributions to mechanical buckling, with minimal consideration of kinetic or thermodynamic factors. Here, we report that the oxygen nonstoichiometry commonly reported for strained cuprates is mediated by the strain-modified surface exchange kinetics, rather than reduced thermodynamic oxygen formation energies. Remarkably, tensile-strained LSCO shows nearly an order of magnitude faster oxygen exchange rate than a compressively strained film, providing a strategy for developing high-performance energy materials.
Mechanistic insights into the role of prenyl-binding protein PrBP/δ in membrane dissociation of phosphodiesterase 6
Authors: Qureshi Bilal M. , Schmidt Andrea , Behrmann Elmar , Bürger Jörg , Mielke Thorsten , Spahn Christian M. T. , Heck Martin , Scheerer Patrick
Published: January 2018

Isoprenylated proteins are associated with membranes and their inter-compartmental distribution is regulated by solubilization factors, which incorporate lipid moieties in hydrophobic cavities and thereby facilitate free diffusion during trafficking. Here we report the crystal structure of a solubilization factor, the prenyl-binding protein (PrBP/δ), at 1.81 Å resolution in its ligand-free apo-form. Apo-PrBP/δ harbors a preshaped, deep hydrophobic cavity, capacitating apo-PrBP/δ to readily bind its prenylated cargo. To investigate the molecular mechanism of cargo solubilization we analyzed the PrBP/δ-induced membrane dissociation of rod photoreceptor phosphodiesterase (PDE6). The results suggest that PrBP/δ exclusively interacts with the soluble fraction of PDE6. Depletion of soluble species in turn leads to dissociation of membrane-bound PDE6, as both are in equilibrium. This “solubilization by depletion” mechanism of PrBP/δ differs from the extraction of prenylated proteins by the similar folded solubilization factor RhoGDI, which interacts with membrane bound cargo via an N-terminal structural element lacking in PrBP/δ.
Multi-day rhythms modulate seizure risk in epilepsy
Authors: Baud Maxime O. , Kleen Jonathan K. , Mirro Emily A. , Andrechak Jason C. , King-Stephens David , Chang Edward F. , Rao Vikram R.
Published: January 2018

Epilepsy is defined by the seemingly random occurrence of spontaneous seizures. The ability to anticipate seizures would enable preventative treatment strategies. A central but unresolved question concerns the relationship of seizure timing to fluctuating rates of interictal epileptiform discharges (here termed interictal epileptiform activity, IEA), a marker of brain irritability observed between seizures by electroencephalography (EEG). Here, in 37 subjects with an implanted brain stimulation device that detects IEA and seizures over years, we find that IEA oscillates with circadian and subject-specific multidien (multi-day) periods. Multidien periodicities, most commonly 20–30 days in duration, are robust and relatively stable for up to 10 years in men and women. We show that seizures occur preferentially during the rising phase of multidien IEA rhythms. Combining phase information from circadian and multidien IEA rhythms provides a novel biomarker for determining relative seizure risk with a large effect size in most subjects.
From stable Sb- and Bi-centered radicals to a compound with a Ga=Sb double bond
Authors: Ganesamoorthy Chelladurai , Helling Christoph , Wölper Christoph , Frank Walter , Bill Eckhard , Cutsail George E. , Schulz Stephan
Published: January 2018

Neutral stibinyl and bismuthinyl radicals are typically short-lived, reactive species. Here we show the synthesis and solid-state structures of two stable stibinyl [L(Cl)Ga]2Sb· 1 and bismuthinyl radicals [L(I)Ga]2Bi· 4, which are stabilized by electropositive metal centers. Their description as predominantly metal-centered radicals is consistent with the results of NMR, EPR, SQUID, and DFT studies. The Lewis-acidic character of the Ga ligands allow for significant electron delocalization of the Sb- and Bi- unpaired radical onto the ligand. Single-electron reduction of [L(Cl)Ga]2Sb· gave LGaSbGa(Cl)L 5, the first compound containing a Ga=Sb double bond. The π-bonding contribution is estimated to 9.56 kcal mol−1 by NMR spectroscopy. The bonding situation and electronic structure is analyzed by quantum mechanical computations, revealing significant π backdonation from the Sb to the Ga atom. The formation of 5 illustrates the high-synthetic potential of 1 for the formation of new compounds with unusual electronic structures.
Synaptotagmin-11 is a critical mediator of parkin-linked neurotoxicity and Parkinson’s disease-like pathology
Authors: Wang Changhe , Kang Xinjiang , Zhou Li , Chai Zuying , Wu Qihui , Huang Rong , Xu Huadong , Hu Meiqin , Sun Xiaoxuan , Sun Suhua , Li Jie , Jiao Ruiying , Zuo Panli , Zheng Lianghong , Yue Zhenyu , Zhou Zhuan
Published: January 2018

Loss-of-function mutations in Parkin are the most common causes of autosomal recessive Parkinson’s disease (PD). Many putative substrates of parkin have been reported; their pathogenic roles, however, remain obscure due to poor characterization, particularly in vivo. Here, we show that synaptotagmin-11, encoded by a PD-risk gene SYT11, is a physiological substrate of parkin and plays critical roles in mediating parkin-linked neurotoxicity. Unilateral overexpression of full-length, but not C2B-truncated, synaptotagmin-11 in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) impairs ipsilateral striatal dopamine release, causes late-onset degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, and induces progressive contralateral motor abnormalities. Mechanistically, synaptotagmin-11 impairs vesicle pool replenishment and thus dopamine release by inhibiting endocytosis. Furthermore, parkin deficiency induces synaptotagmin-11 accumulation and PD-like neurotoxicity in mouse models, which is reversed by SYT11 knockdown in the SNpc or knockout of SYT11 restricted to dopaminergic neurons. Thus, PD-like neurotoxicity induced by parkin dysfunction requires synaptotagmin-11 accumulation in SNpc dopaminergic neurons.
Injured adult motor and sensory axons regenerate into appropriate organotypic domains of neural progenitor grafts
Authors: Dulin Jennifer N. , Adler Andrew F. , Kumamaru Hiromi , Poplawski Gunnar H. D. , Lee-Kubli Corinne , Strobl Hans , Gibbs Daniel , Kadoya Ken , Fawcett James W. , Lu Paul , Tuszynski Mark H.
Published: January 2018

Neural progenitor cell (NPC) transplantation has high therapeutic potential in neurological disorders. Functional restoration may depend on the formation of reciprocal connections between host and graft. While it has been reported that axons extending out of neural grafts in the brain form contacts onto phenotypically appropriate host target regions, it is not known whether adult, injured host axons regenerating into NPC grafts also form appropriate connections. We report that spinal cord NPCs grafted into the injured adult rat spinal cord self-assemble organotypic, dorsal horn-like domains. These clusters are extensively innervated by regenerating adult host sensory axons and are avoided by corticospinal axons. Moreover, host axon regeneration into grafts increases significantly after enrichment with appropriate neuronal targets. Together, these findings demonstrate that injured adult axons retain the ability to recognize appropriate targets and avoid inappropriate targets within neural progenitor grafts, suggesting that restoration of complex circuitry after SCI may be achievable.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Topical Administration of Fibrin Sealant in Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Zhao Zhihu , Ma Xinlong , Ma Jianxiong , Sun Xiaolei , Li Fengbo , Lv Jianwei
Published: January 2018

Patients who undergo total hip arthroplasty (THA) may experience a large amount of blood loss. The objective of our study is to include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and compare the clinical outcomes of fibrin sealant (FS) versus placebo after a THA. In October 2015, we searched the following databases: Medline, Embase, PubMed, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, Web of Science, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the China Wanfang database and Google Scholar. Finally, seven studies that included 679 patients met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis indicated that the topical administration of FS was associated with a reduction of the need for transfusion compared to the control group (P = 0.05). And topical FS will reduce total blood loss after THA (P = 0.0003) and blood loss in drainage (P = 0.002). However, there was no significant difference in terms of the intraoperative blood loss (P = 0.62) and the rate of deep venous thrombosis (DVT), fever, pain, anemia, hematoma and oozing. In conclusion, the use of FS in patients who are undergoing THA may reduce perioperative blood loss and attenuate the decrease in Hb. Furthermore, FS do not decrease the intraoperative blood loss without an increase in the risk of postoperative DVT, fever, pain, anemia, hematoma and oozing.
Graphene Oxide Dielectric Permittivity at GHz and Its Applications for Wireless Humidity Sensing
Authors: Huang Xianjun , Leng Ting , Georgiou Thanasis , Abraham Jijo , Raveendran Nair Rahul , Novoselov Kostya S. , Hu Zhirun
Published: January 2018

In this work, the relative dielectric permittivity of graphene oxide (GO), both its real and imaginary parts, have been measured under various humidity conditions at GHz. It is demonstrated that the relative dielectric permittivity increases with increasing humidity due to water uptake. This finding is very different to that at a couple of MHz or lower frequency, where the relative dielectric permittivity increases with decreasing humidity. This GO electrical property was used to create a battery-free wireless radio-frequency identification (RFID) humidity sensor by coating printed graphene antenna with the GO layer. The resonance frequency as well as the backscattering phase of such GO/graphene antenna become sensitive to the surrounding humidity and can be detected by the RFID reader. This enables battery-free wireless monitoring of the local humidity with digital identification attached to any location or item and paves the way for low-cost efficient sensors for Internet of Things (IoTs) applications.
Swarm incursions of reassortants of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus strains H5N8 and H5N5, clade 2.3.4.4b, Germany, winter 2016/17
Authors: Pohlmann Anne , Starick Elke , Grund Christian , Höper Dirk , Strebelow Günter , Globig Anja , Staubach Christoph , Conraths Franz J. , Mettenleiter Thomas C. , Harder Timm , Beer Martin
Published: January 2018

The outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5Nx viruses in winter 2016/2017 was the most severe HPAI epizootic ever reported in Germany. The H5N8 and H5N5 viruses detected in birds in Germany in 2016/2017 represent a reassortant swarm of at least five distinct genotypes, which carried closely related HA segments derived from clade 2.3.4.4b. The genotypes of these viruses and their spatio-temporal distribution indicated a unique situation with multiple independent entries of HPAIV into Germany.
High content image analysis reveals function of miR-124 upstream of Vimentin in regulating motor neuron mitochondria
Authors: Yardeni Tal , Fine Raquel , Joshi Yuvraj , Gradus-Pery Tal , Kozer Noga , Reichenstein Irit , Yanowski Eran , Nevo Shir , Weiss-Tishler Hila , Eisenberg-Bord Michal , Shalit Tal , Plotnikov Alexander , Barr Haim M. , Perlson Eran , Hornstein Eran
Published: January 2018

microRNAs (miRNAs) are critical for neuronal function and their dysregulation is repeatedly observed in neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we implemented high content image analysis for investigating the impact of several miRNAs in mouse primary motor neurons. This survey directed our attention to the neuron-specific miR-124, which controls axonal morphology. By performing next generation sequencing analysis and molecular studies, we characterized novel roles for miR-124 in control of mitochondria localization and function. We further demonstrated that the intermediate filament Vimentin is a key target of miR-124 in this system. Our data establishes a new pathway for control of mitochondria function in motor neurons, revealing the value of a neuron-specific miRNA gene as a mechanism for the re-shaping of otherwise ubiquitously-expressed intermediate filament network, upstream of mitochondria activity and cellular metabolism.
Epidemiological modelling of the 2005 French riots: a spreading wave and the role of contagion
Authors: Bonnasse-Gahot Laurent , Berestycki Henri , Depuiset Marie-Aude , Gordon Mirta B. , Roché Sebastian , Rodriguez Nancy , Nadal Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2018

As a large-scale instance of dramatic collective behaviour, the 2005 French riots started in a poor suburb of Paris, then spread in all of France, lasting about three weeks. Remarkably, although there were no displacements of rioters, the riot activity did travel. Access to daily national police data has allowed us to explore the dynamics of riot propagation. Here we show that an epidemic-like model, with just a few parameters and a single sociological variable characterizing neighbourhood deprivation, accounts quantitatively for the full spatio-temporal dynamics of the riots. This is the first time that such data-driven modelling involving contagion both within and between cities (through geographic proximity or media) at the scale of a country, and on a daily basis, is performed. Moreover, we give a precise mathematical characterization to the expression “wave of riots”, and provide a visualization of the propagation around Paris, exhibiting the wave in a way not described before. The remarkable agreement between model and data demonstrates that geographic proximity played a major role in the propagation, even though information was readily available everywhere through media. Finally, we argue that our approach gives a general framework for the modelling of the dynamics of spontaneous collective uprisings.
The corneal subbasal nerve plexus and thickness of the retinal layers in pediatric type 1 diabetes and matched controls
Authors: Götze Aline , von Keyserlingk Sophie , Peschel Sabine , Jacoby Ulrike , Schreiver Corinna , Köhler Bernd , Allgeier Stephan , Winter Karsten , Röhlig Martin , Jünemann Anselm , Guthoff Rainer , Stachs Oliver , Fischer Dagmar-C.
Published: January 2018

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the retina and corneal confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) of the subbasal nerve plexus (SBP) are noninvasive techniques for quantification of the ocular neurodegenerative changes in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). In adult T1DM patients these changes are hardly related to T1DM only. Instead, ageing and/or lifestyle associated comorbidities have to be considered as putative confounding variables. Therefore, we investigated pediatric T1DM patients (n = 28; 14.2 ± 2.51 y; duration of disease: 5.39 ± 4.16 y) without clinical signs of diabetic retina disease, neuropathy, vasculopathy or nephropathy and compared our findings with those obtained in healthy controls (n = 46; 14.8 ± 1.89 y). The SBP was characterized by the averaged length, thickness, and tortuosity of nerve fibers as well as the number of branching and connecting points. OCT was used to determine the total thickness of the retina (ALL) and the thickness of each retinal layer. Both methods revealed signs of early neurodegenerative changes, e.g. thinning of distinct retinal layers at the pericentral ring and shortening of corneal nerve fibers that are already present in pediatric T1DM patients. Standardization of instruments and algorithms are urgently required to enable uniform comparison between different groups and define normative values to introduce in the clinical setting.
DEPDC5 deficiency contributes to resistance to leucine starvation via p62 accumulation in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Mizuno Yuki , Shimada Shu , Akiyama Yoshimitsu , Watanabe Shuichi , Aida Tomomi , Ogawa Kosuke , Ono Hiroaki , Mitsunori Yusuke , Ban Daisuke , Kudo Atsushi , Arii Shigeki , Yamaoka Shoji , Tanabe Minoru , Tanaka Shinji
Published: January 2018

Decrease in blood concentration of branched-chain amino acids, especially leucine, is known to promote liver carcinogenesis in patients with chronic liver disease, but the mechanism is unclear. We herein established hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells knocked out for DEPDC5 by using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, and elucidated that cell viability of the DEPDC5 knockout (DEPDC5-KO) cells was higher than that of the DEPDC5 wild-type (DEPDC5-WT) under leucine starvation. Considering that autophagy deficiency might be involved in acquired resistance to leucine deprivation, we observed reduction of LC3-II followed by accumulation of p62 in the DEPDC5-KO, which induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) tolerance. DEPDC5 overexpression suppressed cell proliferation and tumorigenicity in immunocompromised mice, and triggered p62 degradation with increased ROS susceptibility. In clinical specimens of HCC patients, decreased expression of DEPDC5 was positively correlated with p62 overexpression, and the progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were worse in the DEPDC5-negative cases than in the DEPDC5-positive. Moreover, multivariate analysis demonstrated DEPDC5 was an independent prognostic factor for both PFS and OS. Thus, DEPDC5 inactivation enhanced ROS resistance in HCC under the leucine-depleted conditions of chronic liver disease, contributing to poor patient outcome. It could be a potential target for cancer therapy with oxidative stress control.