bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing (and Addressing!) Motivation to Read Fiction and Nonfiction
Authors: Malloy Jacquelynn A. , Parsons Allison Ward , Marinak Barbara A. , Applegate Anthony J. , Applegate Mary DeKonty , Ray Reutzel D. , Parsons Seth A. , Fawson Parker C. , Roberts Leslie D. , Gambrell Linda B.
Published: September 2017

Abstract

Literacy educators, spurred by curricular standards requiring increased attention to reading nonfiction, are compelled to consider text‐specific reading instruction. As research supports the connection between motivation and reading achievement, these mandates beg the question, Are children equally motivated to read fiction and nonfiction? This article presents fiction and nonfiction versions of the Motivation to Read Profile–Revised that can be used to assess student motivation for these two text types. Recommendations for using student responses to address classwide and individual reading motivation for fiction and nonfiction are also presented.
Ultrasound characteristics of endometrial cancer as defined by International Endometrial Tumor Analysis (IETA) consensus nomenclature: prospective multicenter study
Authors: Epstein E. , Fischerova D. , Valentin L. , Testa A. C. , Franchi D. , Sladkevicius P. , Frühauf F. , Lindqvist P. G. , Mascilini F. , Fruscio R. , Haak L. A. , Opolskiene G. , Pascual M. A. , Alcazar J. L. , Chiappa V. , Guerriero S. , Carlson J. W. , Van Holsbeke C. , Giuseppe Leone F. P. , De Moor B. , Bourne T. , van Calster B. , Installe A. , Timmerman D. , Verbakel J. Y. , Van den Bosch T.
Published: September 2017

Objective

To describe the sonographic features of endometrial cancer in relation to tumor stage, grade and histological type, using the International Endometrial Tumor Analysis (IETA) terminology.

Methods

This was a prospective multicenter study of 1714 women with biopsy‐confirmed endometrial cancer undergoing standardized transvaginal grayscale and Doppler ultrasound examination according to the IETA study protocol, by experienced ultrasound examiners using high‐end ultrasound equipment. Clinical and sonographic data were entered into a web‐based database. We assessed how strongly sonographic characteristics, according to IETA, were associated with outcome at hysterectomy, i.e. tumor stage, grade and histological type, using univariable logistic regression and the c‐statistic.

Results

In total, 1538 women were included in the final analysis. Median age was 65 (range, 27–98) years, median body mass index was 28.4 (range 16–67) kg/m2, 1377 (89.5%) women were postmenopausal and 1296 (84.3%) reported abnormal vaginal bleeding. Grayscale and color Doppler features varied according to grade and stage of tumor. High‐risk tumors, compared with low‐risk tumors, were less likely to have regular endometrial–myometrial junction (difference of −23%; 95% CI, −27 to −18%), were larger (mean endometrial thickness; difference of +9%; 95% CI, +8 to +11%), and were more likely to have non‐uniform echogenicity (difference of +7%; 95% CI, +1 to +13%), a multiple, multifocal vessel pattern (difference of +21%; 95% CI, +16 to +26%) and a moderate or high color score (difference of +22%; 95% CI, +18 to +27%).

Conclusion

Grayscale and color Doppler sonographic features are associated with grade and stage of tumor, and differ between high‐ and low‐risk endometrial cancer. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Polyether polyol‐based rigid polyurethane foams reinforced with soy protein fillers
Authors: Tian Huafeng , Wu Jiali , Xiang Aimin
Published: September 2017

In this work, soy protein/polyurethane (PU) composite foams were synthesized with polyether polyol and polyaryl polymethylene isocyanate as the starting materials, soy protein isolate as the reactive fillers, and water as the blowing agent. The structure and properties of the resulting composite foams were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra, scanning electron microscope, close cell ratio, density, mechanical properties, and so on. Strong hydrogen bonding interactions as well as chemical crosslinking occurred between the soy protein filler and PU matrix. The composite foams have more cell density, in the meantime, the average cell size decreased. The close cell ratio and foam density increased with the increase of soy protein. In addition, the compressive strength and thermal stability were enhanced, mainly ascribing to the reinforcing effect as well as the crosslinking effect of reactive soy protein fillers. Therefore, the resulting composite foams would possess improved properties compared with neat PU foam and their applications could be highly enlarged. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:E105–E111, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Utilization of nondestructive techniques for analysis of the Martian meteorite NWA 6963 and its implications for astrobiology
Authors: do Nascimento‐Dias Bruno L. , de Oliveira Davi F. , Machado Alessandra S. , Araújo Olga M.O. , Lopes Ricardo T. , dos Anjos Marcelino J.
Published: September 2017

Martian meteorites are excellent study materials for understanding the present and past of Mars, as they are important historical astrophysical artifacts because they possess information about Martian geological evolution and physical and chemical characteristics. In our case, we analyzed the NWA 6963 Martian meteorite classified as basaltic shergottite because of its chemical structure. A computerized microtomography (μCT) study in the NWA 6963 Martian meteorite provided us with 2D and 3D images that were extremely useful for ascertaining the internal structure of the analyzed sample and gave us the opportunity to find a crumpled material with a very peculiar structural format. In addition, it was possible to observe through the μCT that this encrusted material also has a completely different density of the meteorite. Calcium, strontium, and potassium were detected qualitatively, among others through the technique of X‐ray fluorescence.
Translation and Cross‐Cultural Adaptation with Preliminary Validation of GCOS‐24 for Use in Spain
Authors: Muñoz‐Cabello Patricia , García‐Miñaúr Sixto , Espinel‐Vallejo Manuel Eliecer , Fernández‐Franco Lorenzo , Stephens Alexandra , Santos‐Simarro Fernando , Lapunzina‐Badía Pablo , McAllister Marion
Published: September 2017

The aim in this study was to translate and cross‐culturally adapt the Genetic Counseling Outcome Scale (GCOS‐24) for use in Spain and to carry out a preliminary psychometric validation in a sample of Spanish patients. With oversight by an expert panel, forward and backward translations were conducted to create the draft Spanish GCOS‐24. Fourteen patients were recruited from a clinical genetics service in Madrid, Spain, to participate in cognitive interviews designed to explore readability and interpretability of the draft. Following qualitative analysis of interview transcripts, a final version of the Spanish GCOS‐24 was agreed with the expert panel. No significant cross‐cultural differences were identified. The Spanish GCOS‐24 was then completed prior to and 2–4 weeks after genetic counseling by 59 patients attending the service, and data were analysed using analysis of variance. Preliminary psychometric validation of the Spanish GCOS‐24 showed significantly higher GCOS‐24 scores after genetic counseling (p < 0.0001), with good internal consistency (α = 0.84) and sensitivity to change over time, with a medium‐to‐large size effect (Cohen's d = 0.70). This compares well with the original English language GCOS‐24. Findings demonstrate that the Spanish GCOS‐24 has potential for use in evaluating clinical genetics services in Spain, but would benefit from assessment of test‐retest reliability as well as structural and construct validity.
On a Testing Methodology for the Mechanical Property Assessment of a New Low-Cost Titanium Alloy Derived from Synthetic Rutile
Authors: Benson L. L. , Benson Marshall L. A. , Weston N. S. , Mellor I. , Jackson M.
Published: September 2017

Mechanical property data of a low-cost titanium alloy derived directly from synthetic rutile is reported. A small-scale testing approach comprising consolidation via field-assisted sintering technology, followed by axisymmetric compression testing, has been designed to yield mechanical property data from small quantities of titanium alloy powder. To validate this approach and provide a benchmark, Ti-6Al-4V powder has been processed using the same methodology and compared with material property data generated from thermo-physical simulation software. Compressive yield strength and strain to failure of the synthetic rutile-derived titanium alloy were revealed to be similar to that of Ti-6Al-4V.
Modeling and Forecasting Mortality With Economic Growth: A Multipopulation Approach
Authors: Boonen Tim J. , Li Hong
Published: September 2017

Research on mortality modeling of multiple populations focuses mainly on extrapolating past mortality trends and summarizing these trends by one or more common latent factors. This article proposes a multipopulation stochastic mortality model that uses the explanatory power of economic growth. In particular, we extend the Li and Lee model (Li and Lee 2005) by including economic growth, represented by the real gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, to capture the common mortality trend for a group of populations with similar socioeconomic conditions. We find that our proposed model provides a better in-sample fit and an out-of-sample forecast performance. Moreover, it generates lower (higher) forecasted period life expectancy for countries with high (low) GDP per capita than the Li and Lee model.
Optimum synthesis of oscillating slide actuators for mechatronic applications
Authors: Simionescu P.A.
Published: September 2017

The oscillating-slide inversion of the slider-crank mechanism, commonly symbolized RPRR, is widely used to convert the displacement of an input linear motor (either electric, hydraulic or pneumatic), into the swing motion of a rocker. This paper discusses the optimum kinematic synthesis of the centric RPRR mechanisms for prescribed limit positions, while simultaneously satisfying either (i) minimum deviation from 90° of its transmission angle, (ii) maximum mechanical advantage, or (iii) linear correlation between the input- and output-link motions. To assist practicing engineers, step-by-step design procedures, together with performance charts and parametric design charts are also provided in the paper.

Highlights Optimum kinematic solutions of the RPRR oscillating slide actuators are discussed. Design objectives are transmission angle, mechanical advantage and uniform motion. Short rocker and long rocker solutions are shown to exist for each of these problems. Bivariate parametric design charts and performance charts are provided. Simple step-by-step design procedures are also described.
English Politeness and Class
Authors: Mills Sara
Published: September 2017

Politeness plays a vital role in maintaining class differences. In this highly original account, Sara Mills analyses the interrelationship between class and linguistic interaction, uncovering the linguistic ideologies behind politeness in British English. She sheds light on the way politeness and rudeness interrelate with the marking of class boundaries, and reveals how middle-class positions in society are marked by people's use of self-deprecation, indirectness and reserve. Systematically challenging received wisdom about cross-cultural and inter-cultural differences, she goes beyond the mere context of the interaction to investigate the social dimension of politeness. This approach enables readers to analyse other languages in the same way, and a range of case studies illustrate how ideologies of politeness are employed and judged.
Influencing trade policy in a multi-level system—understanding corporate political activity in the context of global value chains and regime complexity
Authors: Curran Louise , Eckhardt Jappe
Published: September 2017

The increasing impact of the international trade governance regime on the domestic regulatory sphere and the growing inter-linkages between international companies through their involvement in global value chains, have complicated corporate political activity (CPA) in the trade arena and changed the way companies interact with governments in this context. This paper draws on several recent examples of novel forms of CPA in trade conflicts at both multilateral and regional (E.U.) level, to provide an updated conceptual framework of trade policy CPA, which takes account of the increasing complexity and interconnectedness in the world economy. We highlight, in particular, the fact that this changing context means that “domestic” interests are often heterogeneous. The international linkages of a firm may dictate trade policy preferences more than its nationality. In addition, non-government actors increasingly react to globalization by mobilizing transnationally, with positive and negative impacts for CPA. CPA strategy has adapted to that reality, in both home and host country contexts, leading to novel cross border alliances and even political activity in countries where, although their local presence is relatively low, companies find common interests.
Hausdorff dimension of divergent diagonal geodesics on product of finite-volume hyperbolic spaces
Authors: YANG LEI
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we consider the product space of several non-compact finite-volume hyperbolic spaces, $V_{1},V_{2},\ldots ,V_{k}$ of dimension $n$. Let $\text{T}^{1}(V_{i})$ denote the unit tangent bundle of $V_{i}$ and $g_{t}$ denote the geodesic flow on $\text{T}^{1}(V_{i})$ for each $i=1,\ldots ,k$. We define $$\begin{eqnarray}{\mathcal{D}}_{k}:=\{(v_{1},\ldots ,v_{k})\,\in \,\text{T}^{1}(V_{1})\times \cdots \times \text{T}^{1}(V_{k})\,:\,(g_{t}(v_{1}),\ldots ,g_{t}(v_{k}))\text{ diverges as }t\rightarrow \infty \}.\end{eqnarray}$$ We will prove that the Hausdorff dimension of ${\mathcal{D}}_{k}$ is equal to $k(2n-1)-((n-1)/2)$. This extends a result of Cheung.
Local rigidity of higher rank non-abelian action on torus
Authors: WANG ZHENQI JENNY
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we show local smooth rigidity for higher rank ergodic nilpotent action by toral automorphisms. In former papers all examples for actions enjoying the local smooth rigidity phenomenon are higher rank and have no rank-one factors. In this paper we give examples of smooth rigidity of actions having rank-one factors. The method is a generalization of the KAM (Kolmogorov–Arnold–Moser) iterative scheme.
Design and fabrication of gas cell targets for laboratory astrophysics experiments on the Orion high-power laser facility
Authors: Spindloe C. , Wyatt D. , Astbury S. , Swadling G. F. , Clayson T. , Stehlé C. , Foster J. M. , Gumbrell E. , Charles R. , Danson C. N. , Brummitt P. , Suzuki-Vidal F.
Published: September 2017

This paper describes the design and fabrication of a range of ‘gas cell’ microtargets produced by the Target Fabrication Group in the Central Laser Facility (CLF) for academic access experiments on the Orion laser facility at the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE). The experiments were carried out by an academic consortium led by Imperial College London. The underlying target methodology was an evolution of a range of targets used for experiments on radiative shocks and involved the fabrication of a precision machined cell containing a number of apertures for interaction foils or diagnostic windows. The interior of the cell was gas-filled before laser irradiation. This paper details the assembly processes, thin film requirements and micro-machining processes needed to produce the targets. Also described is the implementation of a gas-fill system to produce targets that are filled to a pressure of 0.1–1 bar. The paper discusses the challenges that are posed by such a target.
Nonlinear evolution and secondary instability of steady and unsteady Görtler vortices induced by free-stream vortical disturbances
Authors: Xu Dongdong , Zhang Yongming , Wu Xuesong
Published: September 2017

We study the nonlinear development and secondary instability of steady and unsteady Görtler vortices which are excited by free-stream vortical disturbances (FSVD) in a boundary layer over a concave wall. The focus is on low-frequency (long-wavelength) components of FSVD, to which the boundary layer is most receptive. For simplification, FSVD are modelled by a pair of oblique modes with opposite spanwise wavenumbers $\pm k_{3}$, and their intensity is strong enough (but still of low level) that the excitation and evolution of Görtler vortices are nonlinear. For the general case that the Görtler number $G_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6EC}}$ (based on the spanwise wavelength $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6EC}$ of the disturbances) is $O(1)$, the formation and evolution of Görtler vortices are governed by the nonlinear unsteady boundary-region equations, supplemented by appropriate upstream and far-field boundary conditions, which characterize the impact of FSVD on the boundary layer. This initial-boundary-value problem is solved numerically. FSVD excite steady and unsteady Görtler vortices, which undergo non-modal growth, modal growth and nonlinear saturation for FSVD of moderate intensity. However, for sufficiently strong FSVD the modal stage is bypassed. Nonlinear interactions cause Görtler vortices to saturate, with the saturated amplitude being independent of FSVD intensity when $G_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6EC}}\neq 0$. The predicted modified mean-flow profiles and structure of Görtler vortices are in excellent agreement with several steady experimental measurements. As the frequency increases, the nonlinearly generated harmonic component $(0,2)$ (which has zero frequency and wavenumber $2k_{3}$) becomes larger, and as a result the Görtler vortices appear almost steady. The secondary instability analysis indicates that Görtler vortices become inviscidly unstable in the presence of FSVD with a high enough intensity. Three types of inviscid unstable modes, referred to as sinuous (odd) modes I, II and varicose (even) modes I, are identified, and their relevance is delineated. The characteristics of dominant unstable modes, including their frequency ranges and eigenfunctions, are in good agreement with experiments. The secondary instability is intermittent when FSVD are unsteady and of low frequency. However, the intermittence diminishes as the frequency increases. The present theoretical framework, which allows for a detailed and integrated description of the key transition processes, from generation, through linear and nonlinear evolution, to the onset of secondary instability, represents a useful step towards predicting the pre-transitional flow and transition itself of the boundary layer over a blade in turbomachinery.
Triple Smoking Cessation Therapy with Varenicline, Nicotine Patch and Nicotine Lozenge: A Pilot Study to Assess Tolerability, Satisfaction and End-of-Treatment Quit Rates
Authors: Berg Kristin M. , Jorenby Douglas E. , Baker Timothy B. , Fiore Michael C.
Published: September 2017

Introduction: The majority of attempts to stop smoking end in failure. One way to improve success may be to explore different combinations of existing cessation medications.

Aims: This observational study examined ‘triple therapy’ (varenicline + nicotine patch + nicotine lozenge) in 36 smokers trying to quit.

Methods: A 12-week, observational study exploring tolerability, via adverse events (AEs) elicited at each of nine phone assessments. Secondary outcomes included satisfaction rates, medication changes and self-reported quit rates at week 12.

Results: Thirty five of thirty six participants reported at least one AE. Insomnia (75%), abnormal dreams (72%) and nausea (64%) were most common. Most were mild to moderate. No deaths, hospitalisations, cardiovascular events or suicidality were reported. Six participants (17%) decreased the dose of at least one medication, 5 (14%) decreased the dose then discontinued at least one medication and 13 (36%) discontinued at least one medication without trying a lesser dose. Participants were highly satisfied with their medications, and 58% reported quitting at 12 weeks, with 38% reporting prolonged abstinence.

Conclusions: Despite high rates of AEs and medication changes, high rates of satisfaction and self-reported quitting, with no serious AEs, were observed with triple therapy. Additional data on tolerability and efficacy are needed.

Trial Registration:Clinicaltrials.gov number NCT02681510.
Chair's note: working around the crisis in Libya
Authors: Atkinson David
Published: September 2017

This is the first in a series of Chair's notes in Libyan Studies. We hope that future notes will address easier topics and more straightforward success, but for now we think it is important to communicate what we are doing given the difficult circumstances of Libya today. We trust that this report is useful, and we welcome any feedback.
Host-location behavior of the tea green leafhopper Empoasca vitis Göthe (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae): olfactory and visual effects on their orientation
Authors: Zhang X. , Pengsakul T. , Tukayo M. , Yu L. , Fang W. , Luo D.
Published: September 2017

The tea green leafhopper, Empoasca vitis Göthe, is one of the most serious pests in tea growing areas. This study investigated the roles played by olfaction and vision in host orientation behavior. The compound eye of E. vitis was found to be a photopic eye; few olfactory sensilla were found on the antennae, while abundant gustatory sensilla were recorded on the mouthparts. Three opsin genes (EV_LWop, EV_UVop, EV_Bop) were isolated and found to be mainly expressed in the compound eye compared with other parts of the body. Immunolocalization indicated that the opsins mainly located in the different regions of rhabdom. The transcription levels of EV_LWop, EV_Bop and EV_UVop were reduced by 77.3, 70.0 and 40.0%, respectively, by RNA interference induced by being fed a special RNA-rich diet for 6 days. The rate of tropism to host color was effectively impaired by 67.6 and 29.5% in the dsEV_LWop and dsEV_Bop treatment groups, but there was no significant change in the dsEV_UVop group. The determination of the cause of the tropism indicated that odors from the host over long distances were unable to attract E. vitis and were only detected when the insects were close to the host. The developed compound eye of E. vitis plays a leading role in host location, and the long-wavelength opsin significantly affects the tropism to host color; the lack of olfactory sensilla results in long-distance odors not being able to be detected until the insect is near to the host-plant. The understanding of these behavioral mechanisms, especially the importance of opsin genes is expected to be useful for pest management.
Atlanto-axial rotatory fixation: a serious potential complication of paediatric ENT surgery that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment
Authors: James G , Thompson D N P
Published: September 2017

Background:

Atlanto-axial rotatory fixation is a persistent deformity of the C1–2 vertebral relationship caused by subluxation of the articular surfaces, and can occur after positioning for ENT procedures where the head is rotated – for example to access the ear or posterior triangle of the neck. If promptly recognised, it can usually be managed successfully with conservative methods, without long-lasting sequelae, but delayed or inappropriate management may lead to permanent neck deformity, neurological problems and pain.

Method:

Case review.

Case report:

Two children with atlanto-axial rotatory fixation following ENT surgery; one child was referred early and managed successfully, and one had delayed referral resulting in permanent severe positional deformity.

Conclusion:

Atlanto-axial rotatory fixation is easily missed; there are significant clinical and medicolegal implications if it is not promptly recognised. A suggested management algorithm is presented.
Land Reform, Historical Consciousness and Indigenous Activism in Late Twentieth-Century Ecuador
Authors: HUARCAYA SERGIO MIGUEL
Published: September 2017

Studies of the emergence of the Ecuadorian indigenous movement, which burst onto the national political scene in 1990, have not paid enough attention to indigenous historical consciousness. Using historical and ethnographic evidence, this study examines the emergence of historical consciousness among indigenous peasants involved in the land struggle for the Quinchuquí hacienda, in Otavalo, Ecuador. The research demonstrates that it was only during the struggle for the land that the peasants became aware of the colonial dispossession of indigenous lands. Legitimating their politics in terms of history, they articulated a political identity that increasingly emphasised ethnicity over class.
The Paradox of Gandhian Secularism: The metaphysical implication behind Gandhi's ‘individualization of religion’
Authors: HAZAMA EIJIRO
Published: September 2017

This article will examine the relationship between Gandhi's two major intellectual developments in his last years: his insistence on political secularism (‘individualization of religion’) and his controversial religious experiments withbrahmacarya(sleeping naked with his 17-year-old grandniece, Manubahen). Contrary to the prevalent interpretations, I will argue that Gandhi's political principle of secularism during the last years of his life entailedimplicitlyhis radical religious belief, which he thought worth risking his life to present before the public. There was an intimate relationship between the concepts ofbrahmacarya, individuality (vyaktitva), and religion (dharm) that constituted his principle of secularism—these concepts were integrated by Gandhi in his distinct Hindu metaphysics ofātmā. Although Gandhi's ideas onātmāwere initially influenced by Śrīmad Rājcandra's Jainism, he later repudiated the latter's views and revised them by incorporating some ideas from Western Orientalists, including Sir John Woodroffe's tantric thought. Gandhi's concept ofātmāwas considered to inhere with the cosmological spiritual power ofśakti, ultimately identified with God (Īśvar, Brahm): this concept ofātmāwas one of the fundamental components of Gandhi's eventual ideas of individuality and religion. Gandhi attempted to realize his ‘unique individuality’ (‘anokhuṃ vaktitva’) in his last religious experiments withbrahmacarya, which were conducted contemporaneously to his increasing political valorization of secularism. Gandhi's secularism was virtually a political platform to universalize religion, paradoxical in that he meant to go beyond the impregnable hedge of privatization by making religiondeeplyindividualized—that is to say,ātmā-centred.
Improving nutrition-sensitivity of social protection programmes in Ghana
Authors: Laar Amos K. , Aryeetey Richmond N. O. , Mpereh Mary , Zotor Francis B.
Published: September 2017

Social protection (SP) has been demonstrated as an effective tool against poverty and severe hunger. In Ghana, SP interventions have been employed to address vulnerability to poverty since 1965. Nevertheless, its potential for enhancing nutrition has hardly been explored. To harness the cross-sectoral benefits of scaling up nutrition-sensitive actions in Ghana, the national development planning commission requested an assessment of nutrition linkages across existing SP policies and programmes. The present paper presents gaps and opportunities for improving nutrition-sensitivity of existing SP programming in Ghana. The evidence draws heavily on desk review of available published and grey literature. The data show that SP provides an entry point for mainstreaming nutrition into other programmes. However, designing and coupling SP programmes with nutrition programmes remain a challenge in Ghana. Local SP interventions are predominantly designed as standalone services and therefore are implemented independent of each other. To increase synergy between SP and nutrition, including nutrition as an explicit objective of SP policies/strategies is recommended.
Strong cohomological rigidity of toric varieties
Authors: Choi Suyoung , Park Seonjeong
Published: September 2017

Every cohomology ring isomorphism between two non-singular complete toric varieties (respectively, two quasitoric manifolds), with second Betti number 2, is realizable by a diffeomorphism (respectively, homeomorphism).
Could introducing confiscated parrots to zoological collections jeopardise conservation breeding programmes?
Authors: STAGEGAARD JULIA , BRUSLUND SIMON , LIERZ MICHAEL
Published: September 2017

Confiscated parrots are frequently introduced to captive populations in zoological institutions, regularly with insufficient health screening. This short communication describes a case where 25 confiscated parrots, from four different locations, were brought to the same zoological institution within two years, where they were kept under quarantine conditions. A year after the last birds arrived, several birds died due to either proventricular dilatation disease or herpesvirus infection. As all individuals belonged to rare species, the surviving birds were transferred to the Justus-Liebig-University in Giessen, Germany, for thorough diagnostics including parrot bornavirus, psittacine herpesvirus 1, adenovirus, polyomavirus, circovirus, Chlamydia psittaci, and mycobacteria. Birds that tested negative for all pathogens were transferred to captive breeding programmes, whereas pathogen carriers were paired up in collections of a similar pathogen status. This case report highlights the dangers of latent infections with different pathogens and the importance of managed screening programmes if such populations are to be considered for conservation.
An intelligent algorithm for autonomous scientific sampling with the VALKYRIE cryobot
Authors: Clark Evan B. , Bramall Nathan E. , Christner Brent , Flesher Chris , Harman John , Hogan Bart , Lavender Heather , Lelievre Scott , Moor Joshua , Siegel Vickie , Stone William C.
Published: September 2017

The development of algorithms for agile science and autonomous exploration has been pursued in contexts ranging from spacecraft to planetary rovers to unmanned aerial vehicles to autonomous underwater vehicles. In situations where time, mission resources and communications are limited and the future state of the operating environment is unknown, the capability of a vehicle to dynamically respond to changing circumstances without human guidance can substantially improve science return. Such capabilities are difficult to achieve in practice, however, because they require intelligent reasoning to utilize limited resources in an inherently uncertain environment. Here we discuss the development, characterization and field performance of two algorithms for autonomously collecting water samples on VALKYRIE (Very deep Autonomous Laser-powered Kilowatt-class Yo-yoing Robotic Ice Explorer), a glacier-penetrating cryobot deployed to the Matanuska Glacier, Alaska (Mission Control location: 61°42′09.3″N 147°37′23.2″W). We show performance on par with human performance across a wide range of mission morphologies using simulated mission data, and demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithms at autonomously collecting samples with high relative cell concentration during field operation. The development of such algorithms will help enable autonomous science operations in environments where constant real-time human supervision is impractical, such as penetration of ice sheets on Earth and high-priority planetary science targets like Europa.
The predictive value of symptoms for anxiety in hospice inpatients with advanced cancer
Authors: Zweers Danielle , de Graaf Everlien , de Graeff Alexander , Stellato Rebecca K. , Witteveen Petronella O. , Teunissen Saskia C.C.M.
Published: September 2017

Objective:

Insight into symptoms as predictors for anxiety may help to foster early identification of anxiety and to ameliorate anxiety management. The aim of this study was to determine which frequently occurring symptoms are predictors for anxiety in advanced cancer patients recently admitted to a hospice.

Method:

Symptom burden was measured in patients admitted to a hospice who died ≤3 month after admission using the Utrecht Symptom Diary. This is a Dutch-translated and adapted version of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System to self-assess the 11 most prevalent symptoms and overall well-being on a 0–10 numerical rating scale. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to analyze the predictive value of fatigue, nausea, pain, dyspnea, depressed mood, insomnia, and well-being on anxiety.

Results:

A total of 211 patients were included, 42% of whom were men, and the median age was 71 years (range = 31–95). Anxiety was uncommon and rarely severe: 25% had a score ≥1, and 14% had a score >3. After correction for age, gender, and marital status, depressed mood (p= 0.00) and dyspnea (p= 0.01) were independent predictors for anxiety and explained 23% of the variance in anxiety.

Significance of results:

Hospice inpatients with advanced cancer who suffer from dyspnea and/or depressed mood are at increased risk for anxiety. Treatment of dyspnea and depressed mood may contribute to adequate anxiety management. Further research should explore other factors associated with anxiety, especially in the psychological, social, and spiritual domains.
NG2 antigen is involved in leukemia invasiveness and central nervous system infiltration in MLL-rearranged infant B-ALL
Authors: Prieto C , López-Millán B , Roca-Ho H , Stam R W , Romero-Moya D , Rodríguez-Baena F J , Sanjuan-Pla A , Ayllón V , Ramírez M , Bardini M , De Lorenzo P , Valsecchi M G , Stanulla M , Iglesias M , Ballerini P , Carcaboso Á M , Mora J , Locatelli F , Bertaina A , Padilla L , Carlos Rodríguez-Manzaneque Juan , Bueno C , Menéndez P
Published: September 2017

Mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL)-rearranged (MLLr) infant B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (iMLLr-B-ALL) has a dismal prognosis and is associated with a pro-B/mixed phenotype, therapy refractoriness and frequent central nervous system (CNS) disease/relapse. Neuron-glial antigen 2 (NG2) is specifically expressed in MLLr leukemias and is used in leukemia immunophenotyping because of its predictive value for MLLr acute leukemias. NG2 is involved in melanoma metastasis and brain development; however, its role in MLL-mediated leukemogenesis remains elusive. Here we evaluated whether NG2 distinguishes leukemia-initiating/propagating cells (L-ICs) and/or CNS-infiltrating cells (CNS-ICs) in iMLLr-B-ALL. Clinical data from the Interfant cohort of iMLLr-B-ALL demonstrated that high NG2 expression associates with lower event-free survival, higher number of circulating blasts and more frequent CNS disease/relapse. Serial xenotransplantation of primary MLL-AF4+ leukemias indicated that NG2 is a malleable marker that does not enrich for L-IC or CNS-IC in iMLLr-B-All. However, NG2 expression was highly upregulated in blasts infiltrating extramedullar hematopoietic sites and CNS, and specific blockage of NG2 resulted in almost complete loss of engraftment. Indeed, gene expression profiling of primary blasts and primografts revealed a migratory signature of NG2+ blasts. This study provides new insights on the biology of NG2 in iMLLr-B-ALL and suggests NG2 as a potential therapeutic target to reduce the risk of CNS disease/relapse and to provide safer CNS-directed therapies for iMLLr-B-ALL.
Control of leucine-dependent mTORC1 pathway through chemical intervention of leucyl-tRNA synthetase and RagD interaction
Authors: Kim Jong Hyun , Lee Chulho , Lee Minji , Wang Haipeng , Kim Kibum , Park Seung Joon , Yoon Ina , Jang Jayun , Zhao Hanchao , Kim Hoi Kyoung , Kwon Nam Hoon , Jeong Seung Jae , Yoo Hee Chan , Kim Jae Hyun , Yang Jee Sun , Lee Myeong Youl , Lee Chang Woo , Yun Jieun , Oh Soo Jin , Kang Jong Soon , Martinis Susan A. , Hwang Kwang Yeon , Guo Min , Han Gyoonhee , Han Jung Min , Kim Sunghoon
Published: September 2017

Leucyl-tRNA synthetase (LRS) is known to function as leucine sensor in the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway. However, the pathophysiological significance of its activity is not well understood. Here, we demonstrate that the leucine sensor function for mTORC1 activation of LRS can be decoupled from its catalytic activity. We identified compounds that inhibit the leucine-dependent mTORC1 pathway by specifically inhibiting the GTPase activating function of LRS, while not affecting the catalytic activity. For further analysis, we selected one compound, BC-LI-0186, which binds to the RagD interacting site of LRS, thereby inhibiting lysosomal localization of LRS and mTORC1 activity. It also effectively suppressed the activity of cancer-associated MTOR mutants and the growth of rapamycin-resistant cancer cells. These findings suggest new strategies for controlling tumor growth that avoid the resistance to existing mTOR inhibitors resulting from cancer-associated MTOR mutations.
Reconfigurable systems for multifunctional electronics
Authors: Zhu Jia , Dexheimer Michael , Cheng Huanyu
Published: September 2017

Reconfigurable systems complement the existing efforts of miniaturizing integrated circuits to provide a new direction for the development of future electronics. Such systems can integrate low dimensional materials and metamaterials to enable functional transformation from the deformation to changes in multiple physical properties, including mechanical, electric, optical, and thermal. Capable of overcoming the mismatch in geometries and forms between rigid electronics and soft tissues, bio-integrated electronics enabled by reconfigurable systems can provide continuous monitoring of physiological signals. The new opportunities also extend beyond to human-computer interfaces, diagnostic/therapeutic platforms, and soft robotics. In the development of these systems, biomimicry has been a long lasting inspiration for the novel yet simple designs and technological innovations. As interdisciplinary research becomes evident in such development, collaboration across scientists and physicians from diverse backgrounds would be highly encouraged to tackle grand challenges in this field.
A big data approach to macrofaunal baseline assessment, monitoring and sustainable exploitation of the seabed
Authors: Cooper K. M. , Barry J.
Published: September 2017

In this study we produce a standardised dataset for benthic macrofauna and sediments through integration of data (33,198 samples) from 777 grab surveys. The resulting dataset is used to identify spatial and temporal patterns in faunal distribution around the UK, and the role of sediment composition and other explanatory variables in determining such patterns. We show how insight into natural variability afforded by the dataset can be used to improve the sustainability of activities which affect sediment composition, by identifying conditions which should remain favourable for faunal recolonisation. Other big data applications and uses of the dataset are discussed.
The Equivalence Between Unit-Cell Twinning and Tiling in Icosahedral Quasicrystals
Authors: Prodan Albert , Hren Ram Dušić , van Midden Marion A. , van Midden Herman J. P. , Zupanič Erik
Published: September 2017

It is shown that tiling in icosahedral quasicrystals can also be properly described by cyclic twinning at the unit cell level. The twinning operation is applied on the primitive prolate golden rhombohedra, which can be considered a result of a distorted face-centered cubic parent structure. The shape of the rhombohedra is determined by an exact space filling, resembling the forbidden five-fold rotational symmetry. Stacking of clusters, formed around multiply twinned rhombic hexecontahedra, keeps the rhombohedra of adjacent clusters in discrete relationships. Thus periodicities, interrelated as members of a Fibonacci series, are formed. The intergrown twins form no obvious twin boundaries and fill the space in combination with the oblate golden rhombohedra, formed between clusters in contact. Simulated diffraction patterns of the multiply twinned rhombohedra and the Fourier transform of an extended model structure are in full accord with the experimental diffraction patterns and can be indexed by means of three-dimensional crystallography. The alternative approach is fully compatible to the rather complicated descriptions in a hyper-space.
Electron microscopy by specimen design: application to strain measurements
Authors: Cherkashin Nikolay , Denneulin Thibaud , Hÿtch Martin J.
Published: September 2017

A bewildering number of techniques have been developed for transmission electron microscopy (TEM), involving the use of ever more complex combinations of lens configurations, apertures and detector geometries. In parallel, the developments in the field of ion beam instruments have modernized sample preparation and enabled the preparation of various types of materials. However, the desired final specimen geometry is always almost the same: a thin foil of uniform thickness. Here we will show that judicious design of specimen geometry can make all the difference and that experiments can be carried out on the most basic electron microscope and in the usual imaging modes. We propose two sample preparation methods that allow the formation of controlled moiré patterns for general monocrystalline structures in cross-section and at specific sites. We developed moiré image treatment algorithms using an absolute correction of projection lens distortions of a TEM that allows strain measurements and mapping with a nanometer resolution and 10−4 precision. Imaging and diffraction techniques in other fields may in turn benefit from this technique in perspective.
Pelvic MRI and CT images are interchangeable for measuring peripouch fat
Authors: Gao Xian Hua , Lan Nan , Chouhan Hanumant , Stocchi Luca , Remer Erick , Shen Bo
Published: September 2017

A total of 27 pouch patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, who underwent pelvic MRI-DIXON and CT scan within one year, were included. Peripouch fat areas were measured at the middle height level of pouch (AreaM) and the highest level of pouch (AreaH). Our results demonstrated that measurements of perianal fat thickness, AreaM and AreaH based on MRI image were accurate and reproducible (correlation efficiency(r): intraobserver: 0.984–0.991; interobserver: 0.969–0.971; all P < 0.001). Bland-Altman analysis showed that more than 92.593% (25/27) of dots fell within the limits of agreement. We also identified strong agreements between CT and MRI image in measuring perianal fat thickness(r = 0.823, P < 0.001), AreaM (r = 0.773, P < 0.001) and AreaH (r = 0.862, P < 0.001). Interchangeable calculating formula to normalize measurements between CT and MRI images were created: Thickness_CT = 0.610 × Thickness_MRI + 0.853; AreaM_CT = 0.865 × AreaM_MRI + 1.392; AreaH_CT = 0.508 × AreaH_MRI + 15.001. In conclusion, pelvic MRI image is a feasible and reproducible method for quantifying peripouch fat. Pelvic MRI and CT images are interchangeable in retrospective measurements of peripouch fat, which will foster future investigation of the role of mesentery fat in colorectal diseases.
An efficient method for measuring the internal parameters of optical cameras based on optical fibres
Authors: Li Jin , Tian Shou-Fu
Published: September 2017

In this work, we report an expedient auto-collimating method for self-measuring the internal parameters (IPs) of optical cameras. Several key optical components, including the thin optical fibre (TOF), reflecting prism, and receiver, are introduced into optical cameras. The TOF outgoing end and area-array image receiver are integrated onto the focal-plane assembly of optical cameras. Different wavelengths of light, which are emitted by external sources, are transmitted to the focal plane through optical fibres. Because one optical fibre can transmit different wavelengths of light, the same position on the focal plane can obtain point light sources (PLSs) with different wavelengths. Then, the optical system of the cameras spontaneously transforms the PLSs into auto-collimating lights. The auto-collimating lights are reflected by a two-plane prism, return to the camera optical system, reach the focal plane and are received by the area-array sensor. Finally, the IPs are calculated based on a mathematical model of the imaging relation between fibre light sources and images. The experiment confirms that this method is efficient and has a level of precision of dozens of micrometres for an optical camera with a short focal length and small field of view. Our method is suitable for on-orbit IP measurements for cameras without spatial or temporal limitations.
A dietary carotenoid reduces immunopathology and enhances longevity through an immune depressive effect in an insect model
Authors: Dhinaut Julien , Balourdet Aude , Teixeira Maria , Chogne Manon , Moret Yannick
Published: September 2017

Immunopathology corresponds to self-damage of the inflammatory response, resulting from oxidizing molecules produced when the immune system is activated. Immunopathology often contributes to age-related diseases and is believed to accelerate ageing. Prevention of immunopathology relies on endogenous antioxidant enzymes and the consumption of dietary antioxidants, including carotenoids such as astaxanthin. Astaxanthin currently raises considerable interest as a powerful antioxidant and for its potential in alleviating age-related diseases. Current in vitro and short-term in vivo studies provide promising results about immune-stimulating and antioxidant properties of astaxanthin. However, to what extent dietary supplementation with astaxanthin can prevent long-term adverse effects of immunopathology on longevity is unknown so far. Here, using the mealworm beetle, Tenebrio molitor, as biological model we tested the effect of lifetime dietary supplementation with astaxanthin on longevity when exposed to early life inflammation. While supplementation with astaxanthin was found to lessen immunopathology cost on larval survival and insect longevity, it was also found to reduce immunity, growth rate and the survival of non immune-challenged larvae. This study therefore reveals that astaxanthin prevents immunopathology through an immune depressive effect and can have adverse consequences on growth.
Phyto-mediated metallic nano-architectures via Melissa officinalis L.: synthesis, characterization and biological properties
Authors: Fierascu Irina , Georgiev Milen I. , Ortan Alina , Fierascu Radu Claudiu , Avramescu Sorin Marius , Ionescu Daniela , Sutan Anca , Brinzan Alexandru , Ditu Lia Mara
Published: September 2017

The development of methods for obtaining new materials with antimicrobial properties, based on green chemistry principles has been a target of research over the past few years. The present paper describes the phyto-mediated synthesis of metallic nano-architectures (gold and silver) via an ethanolic extract of Melissa officinalis L. (obtained by accelerated solvent extraction). Different analytic methods were applied for the evaluation of the extract composition, as well as for the characterization of the phyto-synthesized materials. The cytogenotoxicity of the synthesized materials was evaluated by Allium cepa assay, while the antimicrobial activity was examined by applying both qualitative and quantitative methods. The results demonstrate the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (average diameter 13 nm) and gold nanoparticles (diameter of ca. 10 nm); the bi-metallic nanoparticles proved to have a core-shell flower-like structure, composed of smaller particles (ca. 8 nm). The Ag nanoparticles were found not active on nuclear DNA damage. The Au nanoparticles appeared nucleoprotective, but were aggressive in generating clastogenic aberrations in A. cepa root meristematic cells. Results of the antimicrobial assays show that silver nanoparticles were active against most of the tested strains, as the lowest MIC value being obtained against B. cereus (approx. 0.0015 mM).