bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac Surgeons after Vacation: Refreshed or Rusty?
Authors: Winick-Ng Jennifer , McClure Andrew , Dubois Luc , Nagpal Dave , Welk Blayne
Published: May 2017

Introduction Many surgeons describe feeling a bit out of practice when they return from a vacation. There have been no studies assessing the impact of surgeon vacation on patient outcomes.

Methods We used administrative data from the province of Ontario to identify patients who underwent a coronary artery bypass grafting. Using a propensity score, we matched patients who underwent their procedure immediately after their surgeon returned from vacation of at least 7 days (n = 1,161) to patients who were not operated immediately before or after a vacation period (n = 2,138).

Results There was no significant difference in patient mortality (odds ratio: 1.23, p = 0.52), length of operation (relative risk [RR]: 1.00 p = 0.58), or intensive care unit/hospital stay (RR: 0.97 p = 0.66/RR: 0.98 p = 0.54, respectively).

Conclusion There was not a significant change in risk of death, operative length, or hospital stay after a surgeon vacation.
The 100 Most-Cited Articles Focused on Ultrasound Imaging: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Moon J. , Yun E. , Yoon D. , Choi C. , Seo Y. , Cho Y. , Lim K. , Baek S. , Hong S. , Yoon S.
Published: May 2017

Purpose The number of citations that an article has received reflects its impact on a particular research area. The aim of this study was to identify the 100 most-cited articles focused on ultrasound (US) imaging and to analyze the characteristics of these articles.

Methods We determined the 100 most-cited articles on US imaging via the Web of Science database, using the search term. The following parameters were used to analyze the characteristics of the 100 most-cited articles: publication year, journal, journal impact factor, number of citations and annual citations, authors, department, institution, country, type of article, and topic.

Results The number of citations for the 100 most-cited articles ranged from 1849 to 341 (median: 442.0) and the number of annual citations ranged from 108.0 to 8.1 (median: 22.1). The majority of articles were published in 1990 – 1999 (39 %), published in radiology journals (20 %), originated in the United States (45 %), were clinical observation studies (67 %), and dealt with the vessels (35 %). The Department of Internal Medicine at the University of California and the Research Institute of Public Health at the University of Kuopio (n = 4 each) were the leading institutions and Salonen JT and Salonen R (n = 4 each) were the most prolific authors.

Conclusion Our study presents a detailed list and analysis of the 100 most-cited US articles, which provides a unique insight into the historical development in this field.
Priapismus bei Kindern und Jugendlichen
Authors: Pandey Abhishek , Keller Hansjörg
Published: May 2017

Priapismus ist eine prolongierte Erektion ohne sexuellen Stimulus und erfordert in der Regel sofortige Behandlung um Spätfolgen (z. B. erektile Dysfunction, penile Deformation) zu vermeiden. Im Kindesalter tritt die Erkrankungen selten auf, aber die hämatologischen Erkrankungen spielen hier eine wichtige Rolle. In der Regel handelt es sich hier um eine Blickdiagnose, die Blutgasanalyse sowie die Dopplersonographie entscheidet über die Form des Priapismus und damit über das weitere Vorgehen. Bei Low- Flow Priapismus ist eine sofortige Blutaspiration und ggf. intrakavernöse Sympathomimetikainjektion notwendig, bei bestehender Erektion kommt eine Shuntanlage in Frage. Der High- Flow Priapismus benötigt keine sofortige Therapie, bei Fistelbildung ist die radiologisch gestützte selektive Embolisation mit sehr hohen Erfolgsraten verbunden. Das Ziel bei intermittierendem Priapismus ist die Reduktion bzw. Prophylaxe von Episoden durch erektionshemmende Substanzen und Aufklärung über die Erkrankung. Penisprothesen spielen im Kindesalter keine Rolle.
Depression und komorbide Persönlichkeitsstörung – Effekte stationärer tiefenpsychologisch fundierter Psychotherapie
Authors: Seidler Daniel , Schäfer Ralf , Jenett Dörte , Hartkamp Norbert , Franz Matthias
Published: May 2017

Einleitung Depressionen zählen zu den häufigsten Erkrankungen. Die Wirksamkeit tiefenpsychologisch fundierter Psychotherapie auf depressive Symptomlast ist belegt. Allerdings wird ein geringeres Ansprechen komorbid persönlichkeitsgestörter Patienten auf eine Behandlung depressionstypischer Symptome berichtet, ebenso geringere Remissionsraten und längere Remissionszeiten. Die Befundlage stellt sich jedoch insgesamt inkonsistent dar. Ziel dieser Studie war es, mögliche Unterschiede in der Ansprechbarkeit von Patientinnen mit und ohne Persönlichkeitsstörung (PD) zu untersuchen.

Methode Anhand einer Gruppe von Patientinnen im Alter von 25–45 Jahren (N=377), welche sich zur Behandlung einer depressiven Symptomatik in stationärer tiefenpsychologisch fundierter Psychotherapie befand, wurden in einer naturalistischen Multizenterstudie (STOP-D) die Behandlungseffekte auf depressionstypische Beschwerden (u. a. BDI, HAMD) und psychodynamische Zielkonstrukte (IPO) in Abhängigkeit einer komorbiden PD untersucht. Patientendaten wurden in 15 bundesdeutschen Psychosomatischen Kliniken anhand von Selbst- und Fremdeinschätzungsinstrumenten erhoben.

Ergebnisse Bei vergleichbaren Therapieumfängen profitierten Patientinnen sowohl mit als auch ohne komorbide PD signifikant von der stationären tiefenpsychologisch fundierten Behandlung. Bei vergleichbarer Ausgangsbelastung in klinischen Variablen sind die Effektstärken der Patientinnengruppe ohne PD in sämtlichen Zielmaßen jedoch höher als bei Patientinnen mit PD.

Diskussion Bei insgesamt geringerem Behandlungsprofit der Gruppe komorbid persönlichkeitsgestörter depressiver Patientinnen, profitieren beide Gruppen statistisch und klinisch signifikant von stationärer tiefenpsychologisch fundierter Psychotherapie. Denkbar bleibt ein Einfluss weiterer komorbider Symptome sowie eine anhand unserer Daten nur schwer zu kontrollierende Konfundierung depressiver Symptome mit Symptomen einer PD. Hierzu sind weitere Untersuchungen nötig.

Schlussfolgerung Obwohl auch Patientinnen mit komorbider PD von der stationären Behandlung profitieren, erscheint ein spezielleres therapeutisches Eingehen auf diese Patientengruppe sinnvoll.
Subjektiv erlebte Nebenwirkungen ambulanter Verhaltenstherapie: Zusammenhänge mit Patientenmerkmalen, Therapeutenmerkmalen und der Therapiebeziehung
Authors: Grüneberger Anne , Einsle Franziska , Hoyer Jürgen , Strauß Bernhard , Linden Michael , Härtling Samia
Published: May 2017

Hintergrund Empirische Daten zum Spektrum, zur Häufigkeit und zu Bedingungen unerwünschter Begleitwirkungen von Psychotherapien sind von großer Bedeutung für die Behandlungsplanung, -durchführung und Qualitätssicherung. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist die Erfassung und Beschreibung von unerwünschten Begleitwirkungen bei ambulanter Verhaltenstherapie sowie von deren Assoziationen mit Patienten-, Therapeuten- und Therapiemerkmalen.

Methode 70 konsekutive ambulante Psychotherapiepatienten wurden zur Vermeidung von Erinnerungsverzerrungen während ihrer laufenden Therapie mit dem Inventar zur Erfassung negativer Effekte von Psychotherapie (INEP) befragt. Weiterhin wurden Patientenmerkmale (Geschlecht, Alter, Schweregrad der Beeinträchtigung), Therapeutengeschlecht und die Therapiebeziehung erfasst.

Ergebnisse 84 % der Patienten gaben mind. eine subjektiv erlebte Nebenwirkung an (Range 1–13 Nebenwirkungen, MW=3,4, SD=3,43). Patientenalter, Art und Anzahl der Vorbehandlungen, sowie die Qualität der therapeutischen Beziehung waren mit der Häufigkeit negativer Therapiewirkungen assoziiert.

Schlussfolgerung Subjektive erlebte negative Therapiewirkungen in ambulanter Psychotherapie sind häufig und müssen in der Patientenaufklärung und in der Behandlung selbst angemessene Beachtung finden.
Performance of a fully disposable, digital, single-operator cholangiopancreatoscope
Authors: Shah Raj , Raijman Isaac , Brauer Brian , Gumustop Bora , Pleskow Douglas
Published: May 2017

Background and study aim Our aim was to evaluate the first use in humans of a new, single-use, digital, single-operator intraductal cholangiopancreatoscopy system (IDCP).

Patients and methods Data were collected retrospectively from four US institutions between February 2015 and April 2015. The visual impression of neoplasia or benign findings with IDCP was determined by the performing endoscopist. High grade dysplasia, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, neuroendocrine tumor, and malignancy were categorized as neoplasia. Benign disease was defined as the absence of neoplasia during ≥ 6 months of follow-up.

Results Patients (n = 108) with indeterminate strictures, dilatation, or difficult stones underwent IDCP. Of 74 patients with indeterminate stricture or dilatation, 29 (39 %) had neoplasia, of which 25 were confirmed by miniature biopsy forceps, 2 by surgical pathology, and 2 by the presence of metastatic disease on follow-up imaging. In patients with benign disease, 15 had concentric stenosis or normal/erythematous changes, 5 had low papillary mucosal projections, 6 had coarse granular mucosa, and 4 had nodular mucosa. Findings in patients with neoplastic disease included dilated, tortuous vessels (“tumor vessels”; n = 13), irregular margins with partial occlusion of the lumen (infiltrative stricture, n = 12), villous or nodular mass (n = 9), and finger-like villiform projections (n = 5). Operating characteristics for indeterminate stricture or dilatation were: 97 % sensitivity, 93 % specificity, 90 % positive predictive value, 98 % negative predictive value. Targeted biopsy yielded 86 % sensitivity and 100 % specificity. Stone clearance was noted in all cases. Adverse events occurred in 3 %.

Conclusion The new IDCP system provides enhanced image resolution, and may improve the ability to target difficult stones and diagnose indeterminate strictures.
Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis of Hydrocephalus in Adults
Authors: Langner Sönke , Fleck Steffen , Baldauf Jörg , Mensel Birger , Kühn Jens , Kirsch Michael
Published: May 2017

Purpose Hydrocephalus is caused by an imbalance of production and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or obstruction of its pathways, resulting in ventricular dilatation and increased intracranial pressure. Imaging plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, differential diagnosis and planning of treatment.

Methods This review article presents the different types of hydrocephalus und their typical imaging appearance, describes imaging techniques, and discusses differential diagnoses of the different forms of hydrocephalus.

Results and Conclusion Imaging plays a central role in the diagnosis of hydrocephalus. While magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is the first-line imaging modality, computed tomography (CT) is often the first-line imaging test in emergency patients.

Key points 

Citation Format
Antipsychotic Treatment of 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome-Related Psychoses
Authors: Angelopoulos Elias , Theleritis Christos , Economou Marina , Georgatou Korina , Papageorgiou Charalambos , Tsaltas Eleftheria
Published: May 2017

In the recent study by Verhoeven and Egger, 2015 and the recent letter to the editor by Boot et al. 2015 an emphasis is given to the best possible pharmacological treatment of 22q11-2 Deletion-Syndrome related psychoses. We would like to present the case of a 23-year old Cypriot patient with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome who fulfilled criteria for treatment resistant schizophrenia (TRS). He was sequentially treated with aripiprazole, risperidone, olanzapine, haloperidol and a combination treatment with olanzapine and haloperidol. Clozapine was the only antipsychotic medication that has improved his condition.
Direct peroral cholangioscopy with a new anchoring technique using the guide probe of Kautz – first clinical experiences
Authors: Lenze Frank , Nowacki Tobias , Beyna Torsten , Ullerich Hansjoerg
Published: May 2017

Background and study aims We present the first clinical results of a new tandem technique for direct peroral cholangioscopy using a standard ultraslim upper gastrointestinal endoscope and a guide probe that was originally developed for the non-transendoscopic placement of biliary endoprostheses (guide probe of Kautz; MTW, Wesel, Germany).

Patients and methods Twenty direct peroral cholangioscopy procedures were performed with the new anchor-assisted method using the guide probe of Kautz in a single center and were retrospectively analyzed.

Results  Indications for anchor-assisted cholangioscopy procedures included indeterminate bile duct strictures (n = 14), filling defects that remained after stone extraction (n = 4), and complex stone extractions (n = 2). Biliary access and visualization of the target region were achieved in 18/20 procedures (90 %). The interventional success rate was 85 % (11 /13 interventions). One case of postinterventional cholangitis occurred (5 %), along with one case of minor peri-interventional papillary bleeding (5 %).

Conclusions The anchor-assisted cholangioscopy technique is feasible and safe for direct cholangioscopy and provides reliable success rates in clinical practice. This technique represents an alternative approach for direct cholangioscopy on a single-operator basis using standard endoscopes.
Erratum: Corrigendum: “Publicationism” and scientists’ satisfaction depend on gender, career stage and the wider academic system
Authors: Husemann Martin , Rogers Rebecca , Meyer Sebastian , Habel Jan Christian
Published: May 2017

Correction to: Palgrave Communications (2017) 3 Article number: 17032 doi:10.1057/palcomms.2017.32; Published 2 May 2017; Updated 16 May 2017 The article previously lacked some information in the Acknowledgements section. The original text read: Acknowledgements The authors thank all participants for filling out our online questionnaire, and for personal feedback.
Highly transparent conductive ITO/Ag/ITO trilayer films deposited by RF sputtering at room temperature
Authors: Ren Ningyu , Zhu Jun , Ban Shiliang
Published: May 2017

ITO/Ag/ITO (IAI) trilayer films were deposited on glass substrate by radio frequency magnetron sputtering at room temperature. A high optical transmittance over 94.25% at the wavelength of 550 nm and an average transmittance over the visual region of 88.04% were achieved. The calculated value of figure of merit (FOM) reaches 80.9 10-3 Ω-1 for IAI films with 15-nm-thick Ag interlayer. From the morphology and structural characterization, IAI films could show an excellent correlated electric and optical performance if Ag grains interconnect with each other on the bottom ITO layer. These results indicate that IAI trilayer films, which also exhibit low surface roughness, will be well used in optoelectronic devices.
How to measure the pyroelectric coefficient?
Authors: Jachalke S. , Mehner E. , Stöcker H. , Hanzig J. , Sonntag M. , Weigel T. , Leisegang T. , Meyer D. C.
Published: May 2017

The precise quantification of the pyroelectric coefficient p is indispensable for the characterization of pyroelectric materials and the development of pyroelectric-based devices, such as radiation sensors or energy harvesters. A summary of the variety of techniques to measure p is given in the present review. It provides a classification after the thermal excitation and an outline of capabilities and drawbacks of the individual techniques. The main selection criteria are: the possibility to separate different contributions to the pyroelectric coefficient, to exclude thermally stimulated currents, the capability to measure p locally, and the requirement for metallic electrodes. This overview should enable the reader to choose the technique best suited for specific samples.
Mechanisms of resonant low frequency Raman scattering from metallic nanoparticle Lamb modes
Authors: Girard A. , Lermé J. , Gehan H. , Margueritat J. , Mermet A.
Published: May 2017

The low frequency Raman scattering from gold nanoparticle bimodal assemblies with controlled size distributions has been studied. Special care has been paid to determining the size dependence of the Raman intensity corresponding to the quadrupolar Lamb mode. Existing models based on a microscopic description of the scattering mechanism in small particles (bond polarizability, dipole induced dipole models) predict, for any Raman-active Lamb modes, an inelastic intensity scaling as the volume of the nanoparticle. Surprisingly experimental intensity ratios are found to be anomalously much greater than theoretical ones, calling into question this scaling law. To explain these discrepancies, a simple mechanism of Raman scattering, based on the density fluctuations in the nanoparticles induced by the Lamb modes, is introduced. This modeling, in which the nanoparticle is described as an elastic isotropic continuous medium—as in Lamb theory, successfully explains the major features exhibited by low frequency Raman modes. Moreover this model provides a unified picture for any material, suitable for handling both small and large size ranges, as well as non-resonant and resonant excitation conditions in the case of metallic species.
New Products
Authors: Mandelis Andreas
Published: May 2017

In order to supplement manufacturers’ information, this Department will welcome the submission by our readers of brief communications reporting measurements on the physical properties of materials which supersede earlier data or suggest new research applications.
Online measurement of conductivity/permittivity of fluid by a new contactless impedance sensor
Authors: Wang Y. X. , Ji H. F. , Huang Z. Y. , Wang B. L. , Li H. Q.
Published: May 2017

By expanding the contactless conductivity detection (CCD) technique to contactless impedance detection technique, a new contactless impedance sensor is designed to implement the online measurement for both the conductivity of a conductive fluid and the permittivity of a non-conductive fluid. In the new contactless impedance sensor, a new simulated inductor is developed to overcome the unfavorable influences of the coupling capacitances by impedance elimination principle, and the digital phase-sensitive demodulation (DPSD) technique is adopted to realize the impedance measurement. To verify the effectiveness of the new contactless impedance sensor, simulation experiments (using different resistors, capacitors, and their combinations) and practical fluid experiments (using KCl solutions with different concentrations, eight organic solvents, and pure water) are carried out. The experimental results show that the development of the new contactless impedance sensor is successful and the conductivity/permittivity measurement performance of the new sensor is satisfactory. The maximum relative error of conductivity measurement is 3.1% and the maximum relative error of permittivity measurement is 5.5%. Compared with the conventional conductivity/permittivity sensors, the new sensor can implement the contactless online measurement of both the two electrical parameters of fluid. Meanwhile, the new contactless impedance sensor is suitable for industrial applications and has the advantages of simple construction and low cost.
Fully tensile strained partial silicon-on-insulator n-type lateral-double-diffused metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor using localized contact etching stop layers
Authors: Wang Xiangzhan , Tan Changgui , Zou Xi , Zhang Yi , Pan Jianhua , Liu Yang
Published: May 2017

The use of contact etching stop layer (CESL) stressors is a popular technique for introducing stress into a transistor channel. However, when tensile stress is applied to an n-type lateral double-diffused metal-oxide-semiconductor (LDMOS) by covering the whole device with a CESL, the drift region adjacent to the channel will be compressively strained, which is detrimental to device performance. The current work presents a strained partial silicon-on-insulator LDMOS in which tensile stress was introduced in both the channel and drift region via a CESL to reduce the device’s on-resistance and improve its frequency performance. An n-type LDMOS device with a top-layer Si thickness that was varied between 300 and 20 nm was simulated to investigate the effect of CESLs on device performance. Devices in which the channel and drift region were fully strained had larger carrier mobilities, and their cut-off frequencies were increased by 25% compared with a normal unstrained partial silicon-on-insulator LDMOS field effect transistor. Meanwhile stress was shown to have little impact on the breakdown voltage of the two types of LDMOS field effect transistor studied here.
Surface diffusion measurements of In on InGaAs enabled by droplet epitaxy
Authors: Stevens Margaret A. , Tomasulo Stephanie , Maximenko Sergey , Vandervelde Thomas E. , Yakes Michael K.
Published: May 2017

Surface diffusion is a critical parameter for non-equilibrium growth techniques such as molecular beam epitaxy. However, very little is known about diffusion rates of individual cations in a mixed cation material. Using droplet epitaxy as the growth technique, we isolate the diffusivity prefactor (D0) and activation energy (EA) of indium on the surface of In0.53Ga0.47As/InP(100). We report two regimes of indium diffusivity under As2-rich conditions: above and below the droplet deposition temperature of 300 °C, corresponding to a change in surface reconstruction. We also discuss methods of extracting the indium diffusion parameters on metal-rich surfaces using droplet epitaxy and nucleation theory. The obtained diffusion parameters are compared to previous work in the literature and could be employed to optimize growth conditions for non-equilibrium crystal growth.
Reduced-cost linear-response CC2 method based on natural orbitals and natural auxiliary functions
Authors: Mester Dávid , Nagy Péter R. , Kállay Mihály
Published: May 2017

A reduced-cost density fitting (DF) linear-response second-order coupled-cluster (CC2) method has been developed for the evaluation of excitation energies. The method is based on the simultaneous truncation of the molecular orbital (MO) basis and the auxiliary basis set used for the DF approximation. For the reduction of the size of the MO basis, state-specific natural orbitals (NOs) are constructed for each excited state using the average of the second-order Møller–Plesset (MP2) and the corresponding configuration interaction singles with perturbative doubles [CIS(D)] density matrices. After removing the NOs of low occupation number, natural auxiliary functions (NAFs) are constructed [M. Kállay, J. Chem. Phys. 141, 244113 (2014)], and the NAF basis is also truncated. Our results show that, for a triple-zeta basis set, about 60% of the virtual MOs can be dropped, while the size of the fitting basis can be reduced by a factor of five. This results in a dramatic reduction of the computational costs of the solution of the CC2 equations, which are in our approach about as expensive as the evaluation of the MP2 and CIS(D) density matrices. All in all, an average speedup of more than an order of magnitude can be achieved at the expense of a mean absolute error of 0.02 eV in the calculated excitation energies compared to the canonical CC2 results. Our benchmark calculations demonstrate that the new approach enables the efficient computation of CC2 excitation energies for excited states of all types of medium-sized molecules composed of up to 100 atoms with triple-zeta quality basis sets.
A practical superconducting-microcalorimeter X-ray spectrometer for beamline and laboratory science
Authors: Doriese W. B. , Abbamonte P. , Alpert B. K. , Bennett D. A. , Denison E. V. , Fang Y. , Fischer D. A. , Fitzgerald C. P. , Fowler J. W. , Gard J. D. , Hays-Wehle J. P. , Hilton G. C. , Jaye C. , McChesney J. L. , Miaja-Avila L. , Morgan K. M. , Joe Y. I. , O’Neil G. C. , Reintsema C. D. , Rodolakis F. , Schmidt D. R. , Tatsuno H. , Uhlig J. , Vale L. R. , Ullom J. N. , Swetz D. S.
Published: May 2017

We describe a series of microcalorimeter X-ray spectrometers designed for a broad suite of measurement applications. The chief advantage of this type of spectrometer is that it can be orders of magnitude more efficient at collecting X-rays than more traditional high-resolution spectrometers that rely on wavelength-dispersive techniques. This advantage is most useful in applications that are traditionally photon-starved and/or involve radiation-sensitive samples. Each energy-dispersive spectrometer is built around an array of several hundred transition-edge sensors (TESs). TESs are superconducting thin films that are biased into their superconducting-to-normal-metal transitions. The spectrometers share a common readout architecture and many design elements, such as a compact, 65 mK detector package, 8-column time-division-multiplexed superconducting quantum-interference device readout, and a liquid-cryogen-free cryogenic system that is a two-stage adiabatic-demagnetization refrigerator backed by a pulse-tube cryocooler. We have adapted this flexible architecture to mate to a variety of sample chambers and measurement systems that encompass a range of observing geometries. There are two different types of TES pixels employed. The first, designed for X-ray energies below 10 keV, has a best demonstrated energy resolution of 2.1 eV (full-width-at-half-maximum or FWHM) at 5.9 keV. The second, designed for X-ray energies below 2 keV, has a best demonstrated resolution of 1.0 eV (FWHM) at 500 eV. Our team has now deployed seven of these X-ray spectrometers to a variety of light sources, accelerator facilities, and laboratory-scale experiments; these seven spectrometers have already performed measurements related to their applications. Another five of these spectrometers will come online in the near future. We have applied our TES spectrometers to the following measurement applications: synchrotron-based absorption and emission spectroscopy and energy-resolved scattering; accelerator-based spectroscopy of hadronic atoms and particle-induced-emission spectroscopy; laboratory-based time-resolved absorption and emission spectroscopy with a tabletop, broadband source; and laboratory-based metrology of X-ray-emission lines. Here, we discuss the design, construction, and operation of our TES spectrometers and show first-light measurements from the various systems. Finally, because X-ray-TES technology continues to mature, we discuss improvements to array size, energy resolution, and counting speed that we anticipate in our next generation of TES-X-ray spectrometers and beyond.
The effects of gas dilution on the nanoparticles nucleation in a low pressure capacitively coupled acetylene discharge
Authors: Akhoundi A. , Foroutan G.
Published: May 2017

The effects of gas dilution on the chemistry of macromolecules and nucleation of nanoparticles in a low pressure radio-frequency acetylene discharge are investigated by employing a self-consistent, one dimensional multi-fluid model. Ar, He, and H2 are used for the dilution with different percentages, keeping the total gas inlet constant. The results of numerical simulations showed that the nucleation rate decreases monotonically with H2 fraction, when the plasma is diluted in hydrogen. But, for Ar and He diluted plasmas, the nucleation increases with increasing of the dilution up to 40%, and then declines. Diluting acetylene in Ar increases the electron number density and consequently the rate of electron impact hydrocarbon dissociation, the latter in turn leads to a more effective polymerization and nanoparticle nucleation. Radicals are identified as the most important species during the nucleation process and their number density is always higher in Ar diluted plasma than the other two.
Structural and dynamic inhomogeneities induced by curvature gradients in elliptic colloidal halos of paramagnetic particles
Authors: Ramírez-Garza O. A. , Méndez-Alcaraz J. M. , González-Mozuelos P.
Published: May 2017

Paramagnetic colloidal particles distributed along an ellipse are used as a model system to study the effects of curvature gradients on the structure and dynamics of colloids in curved manifolds. Unlike what happens for circular and spherical systems, in the present case, the equilibrium one-particle distribution function displays inhomogeneities due to the changing curvature along the ellipse. The ensuing effects on the two-body correlations are also analyzed, leading to the observation of anisotropic and long-ranged effects. Another noticeable consequence is the slowing down of the self-diffusion of these particles, which for large eccentricities may induce metastable states; this is evaluated by means of the time-dependent self-distribution.
Enhanced electron mobility at the two-dimensional metallic surface of BaSnO3 electric-double-layer transistor at low temperatures
Authors: Fujiwara Kohei , Nishihara Kazuki , Shiogai Junichi , Tsukazaki Atsushi
Published: May 2017

Wide-bandgap oxides exhibiting high electron mobility hold promise for the development of useful electronic and optoelectronic devices as well as for basic research on two-dimensional electron transport phenomena. A perovskite-type tin oxide, BaSnO3, is currently one of such targets owing to distinctly high mobility at room temperature. The challenge to overcome towards the use of BaSnO3 thin films in applications is suppression of dislocation scattering, which is one of the dominant scattering origins for electron transport. Here, we show that the mobility of the BaSnO3 electric-double-layer transistor reaches 300 cm2 V−1 s−1 at 50 K. The improved mobility indicates that charged dislocation scattering is effectively screened by electrostatically doped high-density charge carriers. We also observed metallic conduction persisting down to 2 K, which is attributed to the transition to the degenerate semiconductor. The experimental verification of bulk-level mobility at the densely accumulated surface sheds more light on the importance of suppression of dislocation scattering by interface engineering in doped BaSnO3 thin films for transparent electrode applications.
Optimal design of electromagnetic cloaks with multiple dielectric materials by topology optimization
Authors: Kishimoto Naoki , Izui Kazuhiro , Nishiwaki Shinji , Yamada Takayuki
Published: May 2017

This paper presents an optimal design method for electromagnetic cloaks composed of multiple dielectric materials based on a topology optimization. To obtain optimal configurations that are perfectly free from intermediate materials, so-called grayscales, we apply a Multi-Material Level Set topology description model. The level set functions that are design variables are updated using topological derivatives that also function as design sensitivities, and we derive the topological derivatives for multiple materials. Three numerical examples demonstrate the validity of the proposed method and the advantage of using multiple materials.
Dopaminergic modulation of basal ganglia output through coupled excitation–inhibition
Authors: Budzillo Agata , Duffy Alison , Miller Kimberly E. , Fairhall Adrienne L. , Perkel David J.
Published: May 2017

Significance

Trial-and-error learning requires variation in successive trials, but the source of such variability is unknown. We describe a unique striatal glutamatergic neuron in the zebra finch. This neuron exerts a potent, dopamine-regulated action on pallidal output neurons that modifies neuronal firing statistics in the circuit known to contribute to vocal variability. A simple model reveals how this microcircuit could be influenced by social context and striatal dopamine to switch between firing patterns that modify song variability essential for vocal learning.
Development of visual category selectivity in ventral visual cortex does not require visual experience
Authors: van den Hurk Job , Van Baelen Marc , Op de Beeck Hans P.
Published: May 2017

Significance

The brain’s ability to recognize visual categories is guided by category-selective ventral-temporal cortex (VTC). Whether visual experience is required for the functional organization of VTC into distinct functional subregions remains unknown, hampering our understanding of the mechanisms that drive category recognition. Here, we demonstrate that VTC in individuals who were blind since birth shows robust discriminatory responses to natural sounds representing different categories (faces, scenes, body parts, and objects). These activity patterns in the blind also could predict successfully which category was visually perceived by controls. The functional cortical layout in blind individuals showed remarkable similarity to the well-documented layout observed in sighted controls, suggesting that visual functional brain organization does not rely on visual input.
Essential information: Uncertainty and optimal control of Ebola outbreaks
Authors: Li Shou-Li , Bjørnstad Ottar N. , Ferrari Matthew J. , Mummah Riley , Runge Michael C. , Fonnesbeck Christopher J. , Tildesley Michael J. , Probert William J. M. , Shea Katriona
Published: May 2017

Significance

The 2014 Ebola outbreak illustrates the complexities of decision making in the face of explosive epidemics; management interventions must be enacted, despite imperfect or missing information. The wide range in projected caseload generated attention as a source of uncertainty, but debate did not address whether uncertainty affected choice of action. By reevaluating 37 published models, we show that most models concur that reducing funeral transmission and reducing community transmission are robust and effective management actions to minimize projected caseload. Although models disagreed about absolute caseload, this measure has little relevance for evaluating candidate interventions. Our study highlights the importance of projecting the impact of interventions and is applicable to management of other epidemic outbreaks where rapid decision making is critical.
Emergent magnetism at transition-metal–nanocarbon interfaces
Authors: Al Ma’Mari Fatma , Rogers Matthew , Alghamdi Shoug , Moorsom Timothy , Lee Stephen , Prokscha Thomas , Luetkens Hubertus , Valvidares Manuel , Teobaldi Gilberto , Flokstra Machiel , Stewart Rhea , Gargiani Pierluigi , Ali Mannan , Burnell Gavin , Hickey B. J. , Cespedes Oscar
Published: May 2017

Significance

Interfaces are critical in quantum physics, and therefore we must explore the potential for designer hybrid materials that profit from promising combinatory effects. In particular, the fine-tuning of spin polarization at metallo–organic interfaces opens a realm of possibilities, from the direct applications in molecular spintronics and thin-film magnetism to biomedical imaging or quantum computing. This interaction at the surface can control the spin polarization in magnetic field sensors, generate magnetization spin-filtering effects in nonmagnetic electrodes, or even give rise to a spontaneous spin ordering in nonmagnetic elements such as diamagnetic copper and paramagnetic manganese.
Embryonic transcription factor SOX9 drives breast cancer endocrine resistance
Authors: Jeselsohn Rinath , Cornwell MacIntosh , Pun Matthew , Buchwalter Gilles , Nguyen Mai , Bango Clyde , Huang Ying , Kuang Yanan , Paweletz Cloud , Fu Xiaoyong , Nardone Agostina , De Angelis Carmine , Detre Simone , Dodson Andrew , Mohammed Hisham , Carroll Jason S. , Bowden Michaela , Rao Prakash , Long Henry W. , Li Fugen , Dowsett Mitchell , Schiff Rachel , Brown Myles
Published: May 2017

Significance

Resistance to endocrine treatment remains a significant clinical obstacle.
ES
R1
mutations were found to be the mechanism of endocrine resistance in a substantial number of patients with metastatic ER-positive breast. However, these mutations are primarily linked to aromatase inhibitor resistance and are not strongly associated with tamoxifen resistance. Herein, we show that tamoxifen treatment promotes a RUNX2–ER complex, which mediates an altered ER cistrome that facilitates the up-regulation of SOX9. We show that up-regulation of SOX9, an embryonic transcription factor with key roles in metastases, is a driver of endocrine resistance in the setting of tamoxifen treatment. Our data provide putative targets for the development of new strategies to treat tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer.
Pulses of Ca
2+
coordinate actin assembly and exocytosis for stepwise cell extension
Authors: Takeshita Norio , Evangelinos Minoas , Zhou Lu , Serizawa Tomoko , Somera-Fajardo Rosa A. , Lu Ling , Takaya Naoki , Nienhaus G. Ulrich , Fischer Reinhard
Published: May 2017

Significance

The day–night rhythm in living organisms controls many processes, which then oscillate in a circadian manner. In addition, there are many processes that appear continuous but the underlying mechanisms oscillate with distinct periods. For example, eukaryotic cells grow by extending their cell periphery in pulses rather than by continuous extension. Here we investigate the molecular basis for such oscillatory growth by using the unique tip growth system of filamentous fungi, where actin assembly, exocytosis, and growth rate were observed simultaneously. We provide evidence that temporally controlled actin assembly and exocytosis are coordinated by pulsed Ca
2+
influxes, resulting in stepwise cell extension. This mechanism allows the cells to respond more quickly to both internal and environmental cues, including chemical and mechanical stimuli.
Regulation of the sperm calcium channel CatSper by endogenous steroids and plant triterpenoids
Authors: Mannowetz Nadja , Miller Melissa R. , Lishko Polina V.
Published: May 2017

Significance

The calcium channel of sperm—CatSper—is vital for male fertility. CatSper is activated by the hormone progesterone, but its pharmacological profile is not well studied. By exploring steroid selectivity of CatSper activation, we found one additional agonist—pregnenolone sulfate—and the two plant-derived inhibitors pristimerin and lupeol. By averting sperm hyperactivation, both inhibitors can prevent fertilization, thus acting as contraceptive agents. Additionally, by exploring CatSper regulation by endogenous steroids, we explain why CatSper is silent within the male reproductive tract and is only activated in close proximity to the egg. Interestingly, both testosterone and hydrocortisone antagonize the action of progesterone at physiological concentrations, which may explain why elevated levels of these steroids in the female organism affect fertility.
Nonpeptide orexin type-2 receptor agonist ameliorates narcolepsy-cataplexy symptoms in mouse models
Authors: Irukayama-Tomobe Yoko , Ogawa Yasuhiro , Tominaga Hiromu , Ishikawa Yukiko , Hosokawa Naoto , Ambai Shinobu , Kawabe Yuki , Uchida Shuntaro , Nakajima Ryo , Saitoh Tsuyoshi , Kanda Takeshi , Vogt Kaspar , Sakurai Takeshi , Nagase Hiroshi , Yanagisawa Masashi
Published: May 2017

Significance

Narcolepsy-cataplexy is a debilitating disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness (sleep attacks) and cataplexy, a sudden bilateral loss of muscle tone often triggered by emotion. The disease is caused by a selective loss of hypothalamic neurons producing the neuropeptide orexin. Currently, only symptomatic therapies are available for narcolepsy. Here, we examine the pharmacological effect of YNT-185, a nonpeptide, selective agonist for the orexin type-2 receptor in mouse models of narcolepsy-cataplexy. We show that peripheral administration of YNT-185 significantly ameliorates the narcolepsy symptoms in model mice, providing a proof-of-concept for the mechanistic treatment of narcolepsy with orexin receptor agonists. YNT-185 also promotes wakefulness in wild-type mice, suggesting that orexin receptor agonists may be useful for treating sleepiness due to other causes.
Thiophene antibacterials that allosterically stabilize DNA-cleavage complexes with DNA gyrase
Authors: Chan Pan F. , Germe Thomas , Bax Benjamin D. , Huang Jianzhong , Thalji Reema K. , Bacqué Eric , Checchia Anna , Chen Dongzhao , Cui Haifeng , Ding Xiao , Ingraham Karen , McCloskey Lynn , Raha Kaushik , Srikannathasan Velupillai , Maxwell Anthony , Stavenger Robert A.
Published: May 2017

Significance

The spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria constitutes a significant unmet medical need. Fluoroquinolone antibiotics have been compromised by resistance mutations in their targets: DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. Using biochemical and genetic techniques, we have identified and characterized a class of antibacterials which transforms DNA gyrase into toxic DNA-cleavage complexes, similar to fluoroquinolones, but with a distinct mechanism of action. X-ray crystallography shows that the inhibitors access a previously unexploited pocket in gyrase, leading to their activity against fluoroquinolone-resistant bacteria and providing a strategy to target bacterial topoisomerases.
Identification of XAF1–MT2A mutual antagonism as a molecular switch in cell-fate decisions under stressful conditions
Authors: Shin Cheol-Hee , Lee Min-Goo , Han Jikhyon , Jeong Seong-In , Ryu Byung-Kyu , Chi Sung-Gil
Published: May 2017

Significance

Epigenetic inactivation of XAF1 tumor suppressor is frequently observed in multiple human cancers. However, the mechanisms underlying its function remain largely undefined. Here, we present evidence that XAF1 plays a critical role in cell-fate decisions under heavy-metal–induced stress conditions through the mutual antagonism with MT2A. XAF1 is activated as a transcription target of MTF-1 and destabilizes MT2A through the interaction-directed lysosomal degradation, whereas it is destabilized by MT2A under cytostatic stress conditions. XAF1-mediated MT2A inactivation leads to elevation of free intracellular zinc level and up- and down-regulates p53 and XIAP, respectively, to promote apoptosis. XAF1–MT2A antagonism thus represents one critical regulator of cell-fate decisions, suggesting that it could be an attractive target for the therapeutic intervention of tumor progression.
Parallel memory traces are built after an experience containing aversive and appetitive components in the crab
Neohelice
Authors: Klappenbach Martín , Nally Ayelén , Locatelli Fernando Federico
Published: May 2017

Significance

In nature, animals are exposed to complex situations in which actions and stimuli predict appetitive and aversive consequences at the same time. To study memory formation after a learning episode that represents such real-life experience, we trained crabs in a context in which they found food while they were also threatened by a danger stimulus. We found that crabs build separate appetitive and aversive memories that compete during retrieval. Which memory is expressed depends on the strength of the unconditioned stimuli during training but also on the motivational state of the animal during retrieval. The results support that appetitive and aversive memories acquired during experience are independently stored to be used according to particular requirements during retrieval.
Quantitative assessment of passive electrical properties of the cardiac T-tubular system by FRAP microscopy
Authors: Scardigli M. , Crocini C. , Ferrantini C. , Gabbrielli T. , Silvestri L. , Coppini R. , Tesi C. , Rog-Zielinska E. A. , Kohl P. , Cerbai E. , Poggesi C. , Pavone F. S. , Sacconi L.
Published: May 2017

Significance

The homogenous propagation of the action potential in cardiac cells is guaranteed by a complex network of membrane invaginations called the T-tubular system. In cardiac diseases, T-tubules may show electrical defects that can compromise cell function. Here, we investigate the diffusional properties of fluorescent probes inside T-tubules to predict electrical conductivity of the tubular network. We apply this method to detecting alterations of T-tubule conductivity in a pathological setting characterized by compromised T-tubule integrity. We found that in heart failure, T-tubule conductivity is significantly reduced compared with healthy cardiac cells. A reduction in conductivity can impair the propagation of action potential across the network and may explain the presence of conduction defects found at the single tubular level.
Transferring intermediate technologies to rural enterprises in developing economies: a conceptual framework
Authors: Sánchez Preciado Deycy Janeth , Claes Björn , Theodorakopoulos Nicholas
Published: May 2017

This paper integrates the contributions from different branches of the technology transfer literature to identify enablers driving the transfer of intermediate or appropriate technologies to recipients in rural areas of developing economies. An in-depth analysis of the literature shows that many enablers identified in the literature focus on high technology transfers and are of limited relevance in the context of rural enterprises. Other important enablers in this specific setting are ignored or insufficiently considered. This paper proposes a framework comprising a specific set of enablers that facilitates technology transfer in rural enterprises in developing regional economies.
Diverse roles of guanine nucleotide exchange factors in regulating collective cell migration
Authors: Zaritsky Assaf , Tseng Yun-Yu , Rabadán M. Angeles , Krishna Shefali , Overholtzer Michael , Danuser Gaudenz , Hall Alan
Published: May 2017

Efficient collective migration depends on a balance between contractility and cytoskeletal rearrangements, adhesion, and mechanical cell–cell communication, all controlled by GTPases of the RHO family. By comprehensive screening of guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) in human bronchial epithelial cell monolayers, we identified GEFs that are required for collective migration at large, such as SOS1 and β-PIX, and RHOA GEFs that are implicated in intercellular communication. Down-regulation of the latter GEFs differentially enhanced front-to-back propagation of guidance cues through the monolayer and was mirrored by down-regulation of RHOA expression and myosin II activity. Phenotype-based clustering of knockdown behaviors identified RHOA-ARHGEF18 and ARHGEF3-ARHGEF28-ARHGEF11 clusters, indicating that the latter may signal through other RHO-family GTPases. Indeed, knockdown of RHOC produced an intermediate between the two phenotypes. We conclude that for effective collective migration, the RHOA-GEFs → RHOA/C → actomyosin pathways must be optimally tuned to compromise between generation of motility forces and restriction of intercellular communication.
A well-known potassium channel plays a critical role in lysosomes
Authors: Zhu Michael X.
Published: May 2017

Whole-endolysosome patch clamping presents new opportunities to identify and characterize channels pivotal for these acidic organelles. In this issue (Wang et al., 2017. J. Cell Biol. https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201612123), the identification of a role for the large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel brings new thinking about regulation of lysosome membrane potential and function.
IL-22BP dictates characteristics of Peyer’s patch follicle-associated epithelium for antigen uptake
Authors: Jinnohara Toshi , Kanaya Takashi , Hase Koji , Sakakibara Sayuri , Kato Tamotsu , Tachibana Naoko , Sasaki Takaharu , Hashimoto Yusuke , Sato Toshiro , Watarai Hiroshi , Kunisawa Jun , Shibata Naoko , Williams Ifor R. , Kiyono Hiroshi , Ohno Hiroshi
Published: May 2017

Interleukin-22 (IL-22) acts protectively and harmfully on intestinal tissue depending on the situation; therefore, IL-22 signaling needs to be tightly regulated. IL-22 binding protein (IL-22BP) binds IL-22 to inhibit IL-22 signaling. It is expressed in intestinal and lymphoid tissues, although its precise distribution and roles have remained unclear. In this study, we show that IL-22BP is highly expressed by CD11b+CD8α− dendritic cells in the subepithelial dome region of Peyer’s patches (PPs). We found that IL-22BP blocks IL-22 signaling in the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) covering PPs, indicating that IL-22BP plays a role in regulating the characteristics of the FAE. As expected, FAE of IL-22BP–deficient (Il22ra2−/−) mice exhibited altered properties such as the enhanced expression of mucus and antimicrobial proteins as well as prominent fucosylation, which are normally suppressed in FAE. Additionally, Il22ra2−/− mice exhibited the decreased uptake of bacterial antigens into PPs without affecting M cell function. Our present study thus demonstrates that IL-22BP promotes bacterial uptake into PPs by influencing FAE gene expression and function.