bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-organised segregation of bacterial chromosomal origins
Authors: Hofmann Andreas , Mäkelä Jarno , Sherratt David J , Heermann Dieter , Murray Seán M
Published: August 2019

The chromosomal replication origin region (ori) of characterised bacteria is dynamically positioned throughout the cell cycle. In slowly growing Escherichia coli, ori is maintained at mid-cell from birth until its replication, after which newly replicated sister oris move to opposite quarter positions. Here, we provide an explanation for ori positioning based on the self-organisation of the Structural Maintenance of Chromosomes complex, MukBEF, which forms dynamically positioned clusters on the chromosome. We propose that a non-trivial feedback between the self-organising gradient of MukBEF complexes and the oris leads to accurate ori positioning. We find excellent agreement with quantitative experimental measurements and confirm key predictions. Specifically, we show that oris exhibit biased motion towards MukBEF clusters, rather than mid-cell. Our findings suggest that MukBEF and oris act together as a self-organising system in chromosome organisation-segregation and introduces protein self-organisation as an important consideration for future studies of chromosome dynamics.
In vivo imaging with a water immersion objective affects brain temperature, blood flow and oxygenation
Authors: Roche Morgane , Chaigneau Emmanuelle , Rungta Ravi L , Boido Davide , Weber Bruno , Charpak Serge
Published: August 2019

Previously, we reported the first oxygen partial pressure (Po2) measurements in the brain of awake mice, by performing two-photon phosphorescence lifetime microscopy at micrometer resolution (Lyons et al., 2016). However, this study disregarded that imaging through a cranial window lowers brain temperature, an effect capable of affecting cerebral blood flow, the properties of the oxygen sensors and thus Po2 measurements. Here, we show that in awake mice chronically implanted with a glass window over a craniotomy or a thinned-skull surface, the postsurgical decrease of brain temperature recovers within a few days. However, upon imaging with a water immersion objective at room temperature, brain temperature decreases by ~2–3°C, causing drops in resting capillary blood flow, capillary Po2, hemoglobin saturation, and tissue Po2. These adverse effects are corrected by heating the immersion objective or avoided by imaging through a dry air objective, thereby revealing the physiological values of brain oxygenation.
Structural basis for AcrVA4 inhibition of specific CRISPR-Cas12a
Authors: Knott Gavin J , Cress Brady F , Liu Jun-Jie , Thornton Brittney W , Lew Rachel J , Al-Shayeb Basem , Rosenberg Daniel J , Hammel Michal , Adler Benjamin A , Lobba Marco J , Xu Michael , Arkin Adam P , Fellmann Christof , Doudna Jennifer A
Published: August 2019

CRISPR-Cas systems provide bacteria and archaea with programmable immunity against mobile genetic elements. Evolutionary pressure by CRISPR-Cas has driven bacteriophage to evolve small protein inhibitors, anti-CRISPRs (Acrs), that block Cas enzyme function by wide-ranging mechanisms. We show here that the inhibitor AcrVA4 uses a previously undescribed strategy to recognize the L. bacterium Cas12a (LbCas12a) pre-crRNA processing nuclease, forming a Cas12a dimer, and allosterically inhibiting DNA binding. The Ac. species Cas12a (AsCas12a) enzyme, widely used for genome editing applications, contains an ancestral helical bundle that blocks AcrVA4 binding and allows it to escape anti-CRISPR recognition. Using biochemical, microbiological, and human cell editing experiments, we show that Cas12a orthologs can be rendered either sensitive or resistant to AcrVA4 through rational structural engineering informed by evolution. Together, these findings explain a new mode of CRISPR-Cas inhibition and illustrate how structural variability in Cas effectors can drive opportunistic co-evolution of inhibitors by bacteriophage.
The effects of high versus low talker variability and individual aptitude on phonetic training of Mandarin lexical tones
Authors: Dong Hanyu , Clayards Meghan , Brown Helen , Wonnacott Elizabeth
Published: August 2019

High variability (HV) training has been found to be more effective than low variability (LV) training when learning various non-native phonetic contrasts. However, little research has considered whether this applies to the learning of tone contrasts. The only two relevant studies suggested that the effect of HV training depends on the perceptual aptitude of participants (Perrachione et al., 2011; Sadakata & McQueen, 2014). The present study extends these findings by examining the interaction between individual aptitude and input variability using natural, meaningful second language input (both previous studies used pseudowords). A total of 60 English speakers took part in an eight session phonetic training paradigm. They were assigned to high/low/high-blocked variability training groups and learned real Mandarin tones and words. Individual aptitude was measured following previous work. Learning was measured using one discrimination task, one identification task and two production tasks. All tasks assessed generalization. All groups improved in both the production and perception of tones which transferred to untrained voices and items, demonstrating the effectiveness of training despite the increased complexity compared with previous research. Although the LV group exhibited an advantage with the training stimuli, there was no evidence for a benefit of high-variability in any of the tests of generalisation. Moreover, although aptitude significantly predicted performance in discrimination, identification and training tasks, no interaction between individual aptitude and variability was revealed. Additional Bayes Factor analyses indicated substantial evidence for the null for the hypotheses of a benefit of high-variability in generalisation, however the evidence regarding the interaction was ambiguous. We discuss these results in light of previous findings.
Horse phenotyping based on video image analysis of jumping performance for conservation breeding
Authors: Lewczuk Dorota , Metera-Zarzycka Ewa
Published: August 2019

Background

Many horse breeds in the world are reserved as genetic resources; however, their characteristics seem to be insufficiently clarified, especially in terms of horse performance. Two jumping ability evaluation methods have been used to compare different types of performance breeds and on this basis their applicability for precision phenotyping has been determined.

Methods

Jumping data of 186 young Polish Warmblood stallions (27 with an endangered status) bred for sport and multipurpose use was collected during their performance tests organised under identical environmental conditions following the same guidelines. Jumping data consisted of objective measurements of free jumping parameters and the marks for jumping. Video recordings of 514 jumps (73 records for 27 stallions with an endangered status) were collected using a digital Panasonic AG-EZ 35 camera (25 fr/sec). Filming was recorded during a free jumping test in the line on a doublebarre obstacle (100–120 cm × 100 cm). Spatial and temporal variables of the jump were measured. The analysis of variance was performed (SAS, General Linear Model and Mixed procedures) using the statistical model, which included the random effect of the horse and fixed effects of the year of test, breeding status, height of jump and the successive number of the jump for objective kinematic data. The fixed effects of the year of test and breeding status were included in the model for subjective performance test data.

Results

Performance marks for free jumping were lower in the endangered group of stallions in the trainers’ opinion (p ≤ 0.05), while no statistically significant differences were found in the judges’ opinions. Statistically significant differences in jumping variables were measured for the bascule points—the elevations of the withers and croup were higher in the endangered group (p ≤ 0.001) and the take-off time was prolonged (p ≤ 0.05), which explained the subjective evaluation.

Discussion

The use of objective evaluation methods provides important information for practice, as phenotypic differences between horses may be unclear in the subjective evaluation. The objective evaluation should be used to characterise the performance potential of different breeds, because the information from the evaluators might not be consistent. Such characteristics should be recorded at least for every new population.
Nutritional Composition of Neglected Underutilized Green Leafy Vegetables and Fruits in South East Geo-political Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Umerah N. N. , Nnam N. M.
Published: August 2019

Background/Objective: Vegetables and fruits play a highly significant role in food security of the underprivileged in both urban and rural settings. The study was designed to determine the nutritional composition of some neglected underutilized fruits and vegetables in Southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria.

Methodology: The commonly occuring underutilized fruits and vegetables were selected for the study. The food crops were harvested and identified at the Herbarium in the Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, University of Nigeria Nsukka. Twenty underutilized fruits and vegetables each were cleaned and analysed for nutrients composition using standard methods. Data were presented using descriptive statistics, percentage, mean, standard deviation and frequency.

Results: The proximate composition of the fruits ranged from 54.34-80.30% moisture, 0.27-6.21% protein, 0-3.08% fat, 0.28-8.58 % fibre, 0.33-11.05% ash and 9.08-36.61% carbohydrate. The ranges for mineral values of the fruits were iron 0.10-9.60 mg, zinc 0.02-10.30 mg, manganese 0.10-6.60 mg and calcium 5.42-46.50 mg.  The vitamin contents of the fruits ranged from beta-carotene traces -5666.67 RE, ascorbic acid 0-48.82 mg and vitamin E 0 -11.99 mg. The proximate composition of the vegetables ranged from moisture 60.45-91.00%, protein 0.02-6.60%, fat 0.02-2.19%, fibre 0.04-5.01%, ash 0.04-4.20% and carbohydrate 10.30-36.61%. The ranges for mineral values of the vegetables were iron 1.40-14.80 mg, zinc trace-9.40 mg, manganese 0.07-4.80 mg and calcium 18.19-400.00 mg. The vitamin levels of the vegetables were beta-carotene 15.20-1933.33 RE, ascorbic acid 2.40-38.40 mg and vitamin E traces - 6.67 mg.

Conclusion: The use of these fruits and vegetables should be encouraged particularly in areas where they are not produced through nutrition education in order to promote the food use of these crops.
Economic Analysis of Snail Marketing in Ibadan North East Local Government Area Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Aderounmu A. F. , Oyewo I. O. , Oke O. O.
Published: August 2019

This paper reports findings from a study carried out to investigate the profitability of snail marketing in Ibadan North East Local Government area of Oyo State. Structured questionnaires and interview schedules were designed to obtain information on socio-economic characteristics, operational capital and source, years of experience in the business and constraints to snail marketing. Seventy snail marketers, randomly selected from three major markets which are Oje, Agodi gate and Agugu market;. The data collected were analyzed using frequency table, percentage, gross margin, Benefit/ Cost ratio and Marketing Efficiency analyses. Majority (94.3%) of the respondents were female while 5.7% were male. 31.5% were between the ages of 51-60years with mean age of 54.9 years. It was also shown that 50% source their capital through personal savings between N11,000-N20,000 and 47.1% with 5-9years experience. The cost and return analysis revealed that total revenue was N1, 457,700.00k and total cost was N1, 285,320.00k while gross margin    was N172, 380.00k and benefit- cost ratio was 1.13 which implies that for every N1.00 invested the marketer will make a return of N1.13k on every snail sold, Marketing efficiency was 88%. Major constraints to snail marketing in the study area were poor market patronage (87.1%) and seasonality (82.9%). Snail farming is advocated since it is a profitable agribusiness and can be achieved through cooperatives and micro credit facilities. Also, marketing of snail in the area    should be restructured and standardized to command frequent patronage and command higher price value.
Demonetization in India: An Evaluation
Authors: Rasel Md. , Hosain Md. Sajjad , Sultana Ayrin , Kabir Md. Humayun
Published: August 2019

The aim of this paper is to discuss the motives and after effects of demonetization decision taken by the Indian Government on November 10, 2016. In addition, it has tried to highlight the demonetization effects in some other countries. The opinions of economists, financial analysts and intellectuals have been highlighted on this paper based solely on published information collected from previous articles, newspapers and books related to the subject matter. The paper will hopefully come to the help of those academicians seeking to investigate more and the policy makers who want some academic references.
Regulation of cargo export and sorting at the trans‐Golgi network
Authors: Di Martino Rosaria , Sticco Lucia , Luini Alberto
Published: August 2019

The sorting and distribution to different final destinations of roughly a third of the membrane and secreted proteins occurs at the level of the trans‐Golgi network (TGN). This TGN mission involves efficient mechanisms of cargo recognition and activation of specific signalling pathways. This is important because protein localization is strictly connected with function, and many aberrant phenotypes may occur when a protein is missorted to the wrong cellular compartment. In this review, we briefly summarize the principal players known to be involved in TGN functions, highlighting the importance of regulatory signalling pathways and also the pathological outcomes of aberrant sorting and export events from the TGN compartment.
External Validation and Evaluation of Adding MRI or Extended Myositis Antibody Panel to the 2017 EULAR/ACR Myositis Classification Criteria
Authors: Luu Queenie , Day Jessica , Hall Alix , Limaye Vidya , Major Gabor
Published: August 2019

Objective

To externally validate the European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatism (EULAR/ACR) classification criteria for idiopathic inflammatory myositis (IIM) and determine the optimal cut points for Australian patients. To determine the level of agreement with traditional criteria and assess the effect of including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and an extended myositis antibody panel as well as extending histological criteria to include myofiber invasion.

Methods

Data were collected on adult patients referred for muscle biopsy to two Australian teaching hospitals. Patients were scored for “risk of IIM” according to EULAR/ACR criteria, using clinician diagnosis as the gold standard.

Results

Overall, 87 of 204 patients had IIM. For patients with muscle biopsy, the optimal cut point of 5.25 (sensitivity 90%, specificity 89%) was lower than the EULAR/ACR cut point of 6.7, which in our cohort showed reduced sensitivity (71% vs 93%) but comparable specificity (89% vs 88%). We found moderate agreement between the EULAR/ACR criteria and Bohan and Peter (κ = 0.45, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.28, 0.62, P < 0.001) and Targoff (κ = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.23, 0.57, P < 0.001). Inclusion of MRI (area under curve [AUC] = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.79, 0.93) or non‐Jo1 antibodies (AUC = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.77, 0.91) as covariates improved the probability of IIM diagnosis (AUC = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.75, 0.86). Extending histologic criteria to include myofiber invasion slightly improved sensitivity (75% vs 71%) with the same level of specificity (89% vs 89%).

Conclusion

Application of the EULAR/ACR criteria to an Australian cohort showed comparable specificity but lower sensitivity, and a lower optimal cut point. Inclusion of MRI or non‐Jo1 antibodies as covariates may improve the accuracy of determining the probability of IIM diagnoses. Extending the histologic criteria to include myofiber invasion did not reduce specificity.
Study: Stress, not low motivation, at heart of OUD treatment dropout
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: August 2019

For addiction treatment center staffers who might tend to assume that a patient dropping out of treatment was essentially not ready to receive help, results from a newly published study of factors contributing to dropout should give pause.
Appriss Health integrates EHR and PDMP data
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2019

Appriss has signed Partners HealthCare, a large Boston‐based health care system, for integration of the electronic health record (EHR) with the state's prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP), called the Prescription Awareness Tool. The main benefit of this integration to physicians is that they no longer have to take the extra step of looking up patient information on the PDMP, which includes all controlled substances prescribed and dispensed to an individual, regardless of provider. Instead, this information will be on the EHR — in this case, on Partners' EHR.
Constructing Conductive Interfaces between Nickel Oxide Nanocrystals and Polymer Carbon Nitride for Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Liao Chengan , Yang Baopeng , Zhang Ning , Liu Min , Chen Guoxin , Jiang Xiaoming , Chen Gen , Yang Junliang , Liu Xiaohe , Chan Ting‐Shan , Lu Ying‐Jui , Ma Renzhi , Zhou Wei
Published: August 2019

Combining transition metal oxide catalysts with conductive carbonaceous material is a feasible way to improve the conductivity. However, the electrocatalytic performance is usually not distinctly improved because the interfacial resistance between metal oxides and carbon is still large and thereby hinders the charge transport in catalysis. Herein, the conductive interface between poorly conductive NiO nanoparticles and semi‐conductive carbon nitride (CN) is constructed. The NiO/CN exhibits much‐enhanced oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance than corresponding NiO and CN in electrolytes of KOH solution and phosphate buffer saline, which is also remarkably superior over NiO/C, commercial RuO2, and mostly reported NiO‐based catalysts. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and extended X‐ray absorption fine structure spectrum reveal that a metallic Ni–N bond is formed between NiO and CN. Density functional theory calculations suggest that NiO and CN linked by a Ni–N bond possess a low Gibbs energy for OER intermediate adsorptions, which not only improves the transfer of charge but also promotes the transmission of mass in OER. The metal–nitrogen bonded conductive and highly active interface pervasively exists between CN and other transition metal oxides including Co3O4, CuO, and Fe2O3, making it promising as an inexpensive catalyst for efficient water splitting.
Van der Waals 2D Transition Metal Tellurides
Authors: Su Jianwei , Liu Kailang , Wang Fakun , Jin Bao , Guo Yabin , Liu Guiheng , Li Huiqiao , Zhai Tianyou
Published: August 2019

As important members of transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs), transition metal tellurides (TMTs) have drawn much attention for their various crystal structures with various physical properties. These various structures and structural transitions between them not only are fascinating in the fundamental studies, but also provide unprecedented opportunities in novel device design and applications. In this review, the recent developments in the area of TMTs are outlined. First, the unique crystal and electronic structures of TMTs are introduced. Then the TMTs preparation strategies, including novel exfoliation technique and chemical vapor deposition (CVD), are reviewed. Moreover, the distinctive physical properties of TMTs such as phase transition, intrinsic ferromagnetism, and superconductivity are summarized. Additionally, an overview of device applications in the electronics and optoelectronics field is provided. The prospect for the research of TMTs is presented at the end.
Scalable Printing of High‐Resolution Flexible Transparent Grid Electrodes Using Directed Assembly of Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Abbasi Salman A. , Chai Zhimin , Busnaina Ahmed
Published: August 2019

Next‐generation optoelectronic applications such as virtual and augmented reality systems need ultrahigh resolution displays with a greater number of smaller, tightly packed pixels to avoid issues such as aliasing and the screen‐door effect. High‐resolution grid electrodes with submicron or nanoscale line widths are ideal for successful integration of more pixels with smaller light‐emitting diodes. Solution‐printed metal grid electrodes are a cost‐effective alternative to the vapor‐deposited indium tin oxide or metal grid transparent electrodes, but a scalable method to print high‐resolution (≤2 µm line width) grid structures over large flexible or rigid substrates remains elusive. A versatile, scalable, directed assembly process is presented for printing high‐resolution grid transparent conductive electrodes under ambient conditions using silver nanoparticles over large substrates. Silver grid electrodes with line widths of 2 µm and 300 nm are printed using the described process. The aspect ratio and hence the electrical properties of the transparent electrodes are tailored using the withdrawal speed and the depth of the patterned photoresist. A high‐performance grid electrode with a sheet resistance of 43 Ω sq−1 and an average transmittance of ≈93% to visible light is realized. The printed grid electrodes are also remarkably flexible and are suited to a wide variety of conventional and emerging optoelectronic applications.
Activated Carbon in the Third Dimension—3D Printing of a Tuned Porous Carbon
Authors: Steldinger Hendryk , Esposito Alessandro , Brunnengräber Kai , Gläsel Jan , Etzold Bastian J. M.
Published: August 2019

A method for obtaining hierarchically structured porous carbons, employing 3D printing to control the structure down to the lower µm scale, is presented. To successfully 3D print a polymer precursor and transfer it to a highly stable and structurally conformal carbon material, stereolithography 3D printing and photoinduced copolymerization of pentaerythritol tetraacrylate and divinylbenzene are employed. Mechanically stable structures result and a resolution of ≈15 µm is demonstrated. This approach can be combined with liquid porogen templating to control the amount and size (up to ≈100 nm) of transport pores in the final carbonaceous material. Additional CO2 activation enables high surface area materials (up to 2200 m2 g‐1) that show the 3D printing controlled µm structure and nm sized transport pores. This unique flexibility holds promise for the identification of optimal carbonaceous structures for energy application, catalysis, and adsorption.
Lower respiratory tract amyloidosis: Presentation, survival and prognostic factors. A multicenter consecutive case series
Authors: Rech Jean‐Simon , Arnulf Bertrand , de Margerie‐Mellon Constance , Talbot Alexis , Malphettes Marion , Vignon Marguerite , Royer Bruno , Lavergne David , Kambouchner Marianne , Meignin Véronique , Bergeron Anne , Prevot Grégoire , Brillet Pierre‐Yves , Martinod Emmanuel , Bridoux Franck , Nunes Hilario , Jaccard Arnaud , Valeyre Dominique , Uzunhan Yurdagül
Published: August 2019

Lower‐respiratory‐tract (LRT) amyloidosis has rarely been investigated. Our study presents characteristics, outcomes and survival of LRT amyloidosis. This multicenter retrospective study, from 1995 to 2017, included 73 patients with amyloidosis and LRT involvement. Respiratory patterns were: tracheobronchial (n = 17), nodular (n = 10), interstitial (n = 14) or composite (several respiratory involvements, n = 32). Interstitial and composite patterns were associated with multi‐organ amyloidosis (n = 37, 80%) while tracheobronchial and nodular patterns were associated with organ‐limited amyloidosis (n = 21, 78%). Amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidosis was diagnosed in 43 patients (59%), mainly of lambda type (n = 33, 77%). Smokers’ proportion was higher in tracheobronchial (71%) and nodular (90%) patterns than in interstitial (14%) and composite (34%) patterns. The B‐cell neoplasms involved 15 patients (21%), solid neoplasms 8 (11%), connective tissue diseases 8 (11%) and multiple myeloma 6 (8%). The B‐cell and solid neoplasms were most prevalent in nodular pattern. Median follow‐up was 4.4 years (2.2‐8.9). Twenty‐four patients died, mostly from respiratory infection. Survival at 1, 5, 10 years was respectively 88%, 70% and 54% for multi‐organ amyloidosis, 96%, 89% and 69% for organ‐limited amyloidosis (P = .125). Tracheobronchial and nodular patterns survival was better than in other respiratory patterns (P = .039). Death risk factors (multivariate analysis) were: cardiac localization (hazard‐ratio [HR] 4.3 [95% confidence interval 1.6‐11.5]; P = .004), age (HR 2.1 [1.2‐3.7]; P = .008) and dyspnea at diagnosis (HR 4.0 [1.3‐12.3]; P = .014). Various LRT amyloidosis patterns depend on smoking habits, organ‐limited or multi‐organ extension and comorbidities. They are associated with a different survival, which is also predicted by age, cardiac localization and dyspnea at presentation.
Growth velocity curves and pubertal spurt parameters of Peruvian children and adolescents living at different altitudes. The Peruvian health and optimist growth study
Authors: Santos Carla , Bustamante Alcibíades , Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Vasconcelos Olga , Garganta Rui , Freitas Duarte , Mirzaei‐Salehabadi Sedigheh , Maia José
Published: August 2019

Objetive

To estimate the growth parameters of Peruvian children and adolescents living at different altitudes.

Methods

The sample comprised 10 795 Peruvian children and adolescents (5781 girls, aged 6‐7 years) from sea level, the Amazon region, and high altitude. Height was measured with standardized techniques. Mathematical and biological growth parameters were estimated using the Preece‐Baines growth model I.

Results

Sea‐level children and adolescents experienced peak height velocity (PHV) at an earlier age (girls, 8.56 ± 2.37 years; boys, 12.03 ± 0.58 years) were taller at the time of PHV (girls, 144.1 ± 1.9 cm; boys, 154.3 ± 1.4 cm), had higher PHV (girls, 6.23 ± 3.87 cm/year; boys, 7.52 ± 2.31 cm/year), and had a taller estimated final height (girls, 154.2 ± 0.3 cm; boys, 166.3 ± 1.0 cm) compared to those living at high altitude (girls, 152.7 ± 0.7 cm; boys, 162.8 ± 0.8 cm) or in the Amazon region (152.1 ± 0.4 cm; boys, 162.2 ± 0.6 cm). Across all geographical areas, PHV occurred approximately 2 years earlier in girls (9.68 ± 0.99 years) than in boys (12.61 ± 0.42 years), their estimated PHV was 5.88 ± 1.92 cm/year vs 6.45 ± 1.09 cm/year, their size at PHV was 142.2 ± 1.4 cm vs 152.8 ± 0.7 cm, and their final adult height was estimated to be 153.1 ± 0.3 cm vs 164.2 ± 0.7 cm.

Conclusions

Peruvian children and adolescents' physical growth timing and tempo were influenced by their living altitudes. Those living at sea level experienced an earlier age at PHV were taller at time of PHV, had a higher PHV, and had a taller estimated final height compared to those living at higher altitudes. Girls and boys also differed significantly in their growth parameters.
Factors that influence the decision of Spanish faculty members to retire
Authors: Romero‐Tena Rosalía , Perera Víctor H. , Martín‐Gutiérrez Ángela
Published: August 2019

Recent reports confirm that the European Higher Education Area is conditioning the satisfaction of Spanish faculty members, resulting in a greater number of early retirements. The present study, framed within the context of the research, development and innovation project ‘Fuga de Talentos: Un estudio sobre los motivos que han condicionado a profesores universitarios con experiencia a abandonar la profesión docente. Diseño de una propuesta (EDU2012‐37068)’, intends to understand the factors that influence their decision to retire early. This study is based on the mixed sequential explanatory strategy, using logistic regression analysis techniques with a sample of 311 faculty members. The results showed differences in the factors that influence the decision‐making of active faculty members who are near (aged 51–60) or approaching (aged 61–65) retirement. Their professional satisfaction, feelings and the reasons for retiring influence their decision about retiring, explaining the culture of early retirement and the loss of human capital in Spanish universities.
Materialver(sch)wendung bei Groß‐und Kleinpackungen von ausgewählten Süßwaren
Authors: Högermann Christiane
Published: August 2019

In diesem Beitrag werden die Ergebnisse der Flächenbestimmung von (Kunststoff‐)Umverpackungen verschiedener Süßwaren vorgestellt, die es als größere und kleine Verzehreinheiten, den sogenannten „Minis“, gibt. Exemplarisch werden bei zwei Produkten Aussagen zum jeweiligen Oberflächen‐Volumen‐Verhältnis (vgl. Bergmann'sche Klimaregel) abgeleitet.
Nachrichten des Verbandes Biologie, Biowissenschaften & Biomedizin in Deutschland
Authors: Radermacher Margarete
Published: August 2019

Wissenschaft & Gesellschaft

Digitale Sequenzinformationen

Fachgespräch zu Genome Editing

Fachgesellschaften

Jährliches Treffen der VBIO‐Fachgesellschaften

Arbeitskreise

Arbeitskreis Schulbiologie

Terminhinweis
Navigating activism within the academy: Consciousness building and social justice identity formation
Authors: Kornbluh Mariah , Collins Charlie , Kohfeldt Danielle
Published: August 2019

The academy can provide rich opportunities for the scholar activist through critical discourse within the classroom, consciousness building via community engagement, and leveraging diverse connections. However, the academy often upholds systemic roadblocks, at times enacting policies that further perpetuate inequities. This qualitative study takes a narrative approach to exploring the life course histories of 15 activists occupying diverse yet intersecting dimensions in the spectrum of privilege and oppression. Interviewees are uniquely connected to the academy engaging in a variety of roles and anti‐racist social justice efforts within the northwestern United States. Applying a critical consciousness framework, results highlight key functions of critical reflection and critical action as interviewees engage in critical consciousness raising (i.e., systemic root cause analysis), social justice identity formation (i.e., the politicization of one's identity), and adapting individual theories of social change. Barriers within the institution are also identified concerning the mainstreaming of service learning and university‐required diversity courses, limited structural supports for activists of color, and the institutionalized co‐opting of social change efforts. Lastly, implications for activism, scholarship, and critical pedagogy within the academy are discussed.
Anti‐Pr antibody induced cold autoimmune hemolytic anemia following pneumococcal vaccination
Authors: Bowen Laurel , LePage Nichole , Lewandowska Magdalena , Waxman Dan A.
Published: August 2019

While rare, vaccination‐induced autoantibodies can occur outside of the pediatric population. This diagnosis should be considered after infectious and lymphoproliferative disorders are ruled out. Clinical management will depend on the individual case, but all patients should be monitored closely.
Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Using Plasmonic Pd‐Decorated Au Nanorods as Catalyst: A Study on the Contribution of Laser Illumination
Authors: Verkaaik Mattheus , Grote Roos , Meulendijks Nicole , Sastre Francesc , Weckhuysen Bert M. , Buskens Pascal
Published: August 2019

The interaction between plasmonic metal catalysts and visible light can be exploited to increase their catalytic activity. This activity increase results from the generation of hot charge carriers or hot surfaces, or a combination of both. We have studied the light‐induced Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction of bromobenzene and m‐tolylboronic acid using Pd‐decorated Au nanorods as plasmonic catalyst in order to assess which physical effect dominates. Comparative experiments under laser illumination and in dark were performed, demonstrating that under the experimental conditions applied in our study the catalytic activity achieved upon illumination is dominantly based on the conversion of light to heat by the plasmonic catalyst. Pd leached from the catalyst also plays a significant role in the reaction mechanism.
On the application of a novel linear mixture model on laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy: Implications for Mars
Authors: Konstantinidis Menelaos , Cote Kristen , Lalla Emmanuel A. , Zhang Guanlin , Daly Michael G. , Gao Xin , Dietrich Peter
Published: August 2019

As the exploration of Mars and other solar system bodies becomes more prevalent, the importance of accurate methods in chemical analyses has increased. The use of laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) in such analyses requires that well understood and accurate statistical methods exist for appropriate interpretation of resulting spectra. Many multivariate techniques have been developed for the elemental quantification of LIBS; however, each still has its limitations. In an endeavor to improve upon existing methodologies, a new algorithm is proposed using the ChemCam preflight calibration dataset and a dataset from the characterization of a LIBS/Raman sensor prototype developed at York University. The algorithm which was developed in this work is a linear mixture model within a submodel clustering framework. The cross validation and test results of the model on both datasets were reported using various metrics for each element under consideration (root mean square error, relative standard deviation, and R2 value). The algorithm was subsequently compared with other well established chemometric models on both datasets, such as principal component regression, partial least square regression, and ordinary least squares regression. Further validation of the algorithm was achieved by comparing the results presented herein to previously published results on the ChemCam data. The samples in each dataset are highly representative of Martian geology, which, given the overwhelming success of the algorithm on both datasets, suggests that subsequent implementation of the proposed algorithm on larger databases may have significant implications for Martian geochemical analyses and for planetary exploration as a whole.
Executive antecedents of interfirm cooperation
Authors: Gur Furkan A. , Bendickson Joshua S. , Solomon Shelby J.
Published: August 2019

Much of the present research and theory on cooperation is devoid of the effects of the individual actors. Although previous research recognizes the vital role of key managers in regard to cooperation, there is limited research on executive‐related antecedents of interfirm cooperation. This manuscript extends our understanding of cooperative outcomes by theorizing how executive characteristics and social forces may impact an executive's cooperative behavior. We develop a model that encompasses executive personality, cooperative tendencies, cultural distance, trust, and justice perceptions in addition to their implications for interfirm cooperation outcomes. Specifically, we extend socio‐analytic theory to an interfirm context. Furthermore, we integrate theories of exchange and attraction to discuss how social forces moderate the relationship between cooperative tendencies and cooperative outcomes.
A Neuron‐Glia Co‐culture System for Studying Intercellular Lipid Transport
Authors: Ioannou Maria S. , Liu Zhe , Lippincott‐Schwartz Jennifer
Published: August 2019

Neurons and glia operate in a highly coordinated fashion in the brain. Although glial cells have long been known to supply lipids to neurons via lipoprotein particles, new evidence reveals that lipid transport between neurons and glia is bidirectional. Here, we describe a co‐culture system to study transfer of lipids and lipid‐associated proteins from neurons to glia. The assay entails culturing neurons and glia on separate coverslips, pulsing the neurons with fluorescently labeled fatty acids, and then incubating the coverslips together. As astrocytes internalize and store neuron‐derived fatty acids in lipid droplets, analyzing the number, size, and fluorescence intensity of lipid droplets containing the fluorescent fatty acids provides an easy and quantifiable measure of fatty acid transport. © 2019 The Authors.
A multi‐dimensional index for privacy‐preserving queries in cloud computing
Authors: Xu Hui , Ding Xiaofeng , Jin Hai , Yu Qing
Published: August 2019

Although cloud computing saves the cost of enterprises and individuals to manage data in various applications on public cloud servers, it also causes the problem of the leakage of critical personal information and sensitive data. Therefore, the issues about data privacy of the published personal information have become a challenging problem. Most of the existing methods focus on cryptography‐based techniques by encrypting the sensitive data before publishing. However, these techniques are either too computation expensive or only some authorized users can get access to the encrypted cloud data. The consequence is that the search response time is not satisfactory and the sharing extent of the cloud data is becoming limited. Motivated by this, we propose a perturbation‐based method to preserve the privacy of data in cloud. To accelerate the query processing without privacy breaches, a high‐efficiency multi‐dimensional index is built for answering range counting queries under differential privacy, which embeds privacy‐preserving R‐tree index in Content Addressable Network. Experimental results demonstrate that our methods not only protect data privacy in different degree, but also accelerate the query speed efficiently. Compared with the existing method Quad‐opt, our method provides about 20% better data utility under the same differential privacy principles.
Performance evaluation of single vs. batch of queries on GPUs
Authors: Gaioso Roussian , Gil‐Costa Veronica , Guardia Helio , Senger Hermes
Published: August 2019

The WAND processing strategy is a dynamic pruning algorithm designed for large scale Web search engines where fast response to queries is a critical service. The WAND is used to reduce the amount of computation by scoring only documents that may become part of the top‐k document results. In this paper, we present two parallel strategies for the WAND algorithm and compare their performance on GPUs. In our first strategy (named size‐based), the posting lists are evenly partitioned among thread blocks. Our second strategy (named range‐based) partitions the posting lists according to document identifier intervals; thus, partitions may have different sizes. We also propose three threshold sharing policies, named Local, Safe‐R, and Safe‐WR, which emulate the WAND algorithm global pruning technique. We evaluated our proposals with different amounts of work, from short to extra‐large queries, using single query processing and batch of queries. Results show that the size‐based strategy reports the highest speedups but at the cost of low quality of results. The range‐based algorithm retrievals the exact top‐k documents and maintains a good speedup. Moreover, both strategies are capable of scaling as the amount of work is increased. In addition, there is no significant difference in the performance of the three threshold sharing policies.
Efficient implementations of Bloom filter using block RAMs and DSP slices on the FPGA
Authors: Wada Takuma , Matsumura Naoki , Yasudo Ryota , Nakano Koji , Ito Yasuaki
Published: August 2019

This paper presents efficient FPGA implementations for the Bloom filter, in which a large set P of L‐byte patterns are registered beforehand. Our Bloom filter circuit performs the byte stream pattern test such that it receives an input byte stream t and outputs the bit stream in every clock cycle. Each bit of the output bit stream is 1 if an L‐byte sequence of t starting from the corresponding position is identical with one of the patterns in P. Our circuits use rolling hash functions to compute signatures of all patterns in P registered in Ultra RAMs of the Xilinx UltraScale+ FPGA VU9P. We present two types of implementations, DSP‐based implementation and RAM‐based implementation to compute rolling hash functions of L‐byte sequences using DSP slices and Block RAMs in the FPGA, respectively. The experimental results show that both DSP‐based and RAM‐based Bloom filter circuits for 4800K patterns of length 1024 can perform the byte stream pattern test for 1.1 Gps and 1.3 Gbps input byte streams, respectively, with false positive probability 10−12. Moreover, we can configure DSP‐based and RAM‐based Bloom filter circuits for 100K patterns to work for 54.9 Gbps and 62.2 Gbps input byte streams, respectively, with false positive probability 10−12.
Overexpression of Lin28a delays Xenopus metamorphosis and down‐regulates albumin independently of its translational regulation domain
Authors: Gundermann Daniel G. , Martínez Jimena , De Kervor Genevieve , González‐Pinto Karina , Larraín Juan , Faunes Fernando
Published: August 2019

Background

Lin28 regulates stem cell biology and developmental timing. At the molecular level Lin28 inhibits the biogenesis of the micro RNA let‐7 and directly controls the transcription and translation of several genes. In Xenopus, Lin28 overexpression delays metamorphosis and affects the expression of genes of the thyroid hormone (TH) axis. The TH carrier albumin, synthesized by the liver, is down‐regulated in limbs and tail after Lin28 overexpression. The molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between Lin28, let‐7, and the hypothalamus–pituitary–thyroid gland (HPT) axis are unknown.

Results

We found that precursor and mature forms of let‐7 increase during Xenopus metamorphosis. In the liver, lin28b is down‐regulated and albumin is up‐regulated during metamorphosis. Overexpression of a truncated form of Lin28a (Lin28aΔC), which has been shown not to interact with RNA helicase A to regulate translation, delays metamorphosis, indicating that the translational regulation domain is not required to inhibit the HPT axis. Importantly, both full length Lin28a and Lin28aΔC block the increase of albumin mRNA in the liver independently of changes in TH signaling.

Conclusions

These results suggest that Lin28 delays metamorphosis through regulation of let‐7 and that the decrease of the TH carrier albumin is one of the early changes after Lin28 overexpression.
High rates of primary production in structurally complex forests
Authors: Gough Christopher M. , Atkins Jeff W. , Fahey Robert T. , Hardiman Brady S.
Published: August 2019

Structure–function relationships are central to many ecological paradigms. Chief among these is the linkage of net primary production (NPP) with species diversity and canopy structure. Using the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) as a subcontinental‐scale research platform, we examined how temperate‐forestNPPrelates to several measures of site‐level canopy structure and tree species diversity. Novel multidimensional canopy traits describing structural complexity, most notably canopy rugosity, were more strongly related to siteNPPthan were species diversity measures and other commonly characterized canopy structural features. The amount of variation in site‐levelNPPexplained by canopy rugosity alone was 83%, which was substantially greater than that explained individually by vegetation area index (31%) or Shannon's index of species diversity (30%). Forests that were more structurally complex, had higher vegetation‐area indices, or were more diverse absorbed more light and used light more efficiently to power biomass production, but these relationships were most strongly tied to structural complexity. Implications for ecosystem modeling and management are wide ranging, suggesting structural complexity traits are broad, mechanistically robust indicators ofNPPthat, in application, could improve the prediction and management of temperate forest carbon sequestration.
Impact of internal mammary artery perforator propeller flap in neck resurfacing and fistula closure after salvage larynx cancer surgery: Our experience
Authors: Almadori Giovanni , De Corso Eugenio , Visconti Giuseppe , Almadori Aurora , Di Cintio Giovanni , Mele Dario A. , Settimi Stefano , Paludetti Gaetano , Salgarello Marzia
Published: August 2019

Background

Salvage total laryngectomy (TL) and laryngopharyngectomy (LP) after chemoradiotherapy may produce disfiguring defects with severe complications that require complex reconstructions.

Methods

Between January 2012 and December 2018, we enrolled 25 patients who underwent internal mammary artery perforator (IMAP) flap reconstruction after salvage TL or LP. We performed retrospective review of clinical charts to collect information such as history, timing of reconstruction, type of defect, follow‐up, donor and recipient site complications, and overall flap survival (OFS) rate. Three years overall survival (OS), relapse‐free survival (RFS), and disease‐specific survival (DSS) were calculated.

Results

The OFS rate was 95%. One partial flap necrosis was recorded. No donor‐site complications were found. The mean follow‐up was 18 months. Three years OS was 44%, RFS was 47%, and DSS was 54%.

Conclusions

IMAP flap appears to be safe, versatile, and easy to harvest, with minimal donor site morbidity. It is a reliable option in Head&Neck reconstruction, in salvage surgery as well.
Tumor‐Selective Altered Glycosylation and Functional Attenuation of CD73 in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Alcedo Karel P. , Guerrero Andres , Basrur Venkatesha , Fu Dong , Richardson Monea L. , McLane Joshua S. , Tsou Chih‐Chiang , Nesvizhskii Alexey I. , Welling Theodore H. , Lebrilla Carlito B. , Otey Carol A. , Kim Hong Jin , Omary M. Bishr , Snider Natasha T.
Published: August 2019

CD73, a cell‐surface N‐linked glycoprotein that produces extracellular adenosine, is a novel target for cancer immunotherapy. Although anti‐CD73 antibodies have entered clinical development, CD73 has both protumor and antitumor functions, depending on the target cell and tumor type. The aim of this study was to characterize CD73 regulation in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We examined CD73 expression, localization, and activity using molecular, biochemical, and cellular analyses on primary HCC surgical specimens, coupled with mechanistic studies in HCC cells. We analyzed CD73 glycan signatures and global alterations in transcripts encoding other N‐linked glycoproteins by using mass spectrometry glycomics and RNA sequencing (RNAseq), respectively. CD73 was expressed on tumor hepatocytes where it exhibited abnormal N‐linked glycosylation, independent of HCC etiology, tumor stage, or fibrosis presence. Aberrant glycosylation of tumor‐associated CD73 resulted in a 3‐fold decrease in 5′‐nucleotidase activity (P < 0.0001). Biochemically, tumor‐associated CD73 was deficient in hybrid and complex glycans specifically on residues N311 and N333 located in the C‐terminal catalytic domain. Blocking N311/N333 glycosylation by site‐directed mutagenesis produced CD73 with significantly decreased 5′‐nucleotidase activity in vitro, similar to the primary tumors. Glycosylation‐deficient CD73 partially colocalized with the Golgi structural protein GM130, which was strongly induced in HCC tumors. RNAseq analysis further revealed that N‐linked glycoprotein‐encoding genes represented the largest category of differentially expressed genes between HCC tumor and adjacent tissue. Conclusion: We provide the first detailed characterization of CD73 glycosylation in normal and tumor tissue, revealing a novel mechanism that leads to the functional suppression of CD73 in human HCC tumor cells. The present findings have translational implications for therapeutic candidate antibodies targeting cell‐surface CD73 in solid tumors and small‐molecule adenosine receptor agonists that are in clinical development for HCC.