bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlocal advantage of quantum coherence under relativistic frame
Authors: Wang Long-Fei , Du Ming-Ming , Sun Wen-Yang , Wang Dong , Ye Liu
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we investigate the influence of the Unruh effect on the achievement of the nonlocal advantage of quantum coherence for a two-qubit system under a relativistic frame. The results show that with the increase of acceleration, it is difficult to realize the nonlocal advantage of quantum coherence and when the acceleration exceeds a certain value, nonlocal advantage of quantum coherence cannot be realized. In addition, we explore the dynamics of Bell nonlocality, steering, quantum coherence, entanglement and quantum discord (QD) under Unruh thermal noise. It is shown that nonlocal advantage of quantum coherence, Bell nonlocality, steering and entanglement experience “sudden death” for a finite acceleration, while quantum coherence and QD vanish only in the limit of an infinite acceleration. We also find that not all nonlocal states can achieve the nonlocal advantage of quantum coherence. It is also demonstrated that the robustness of Bell nonlocality is better than nonlocal advantage of quantum coherence under the influence of the Unruh noise.
Traffic flow in the vicinity of crosswalks on a provincial highway in China
Authors: Hu Xiaojian , Liu Mingyang
Published: October 2018

In this paper, motorized traffic flow in the vicinity of an unsignalized crosswalk on a provincial highway in China was studied. Based on the Kerner–Klenov–Schreckenberg–Wolf (KKSW) three-phase cellular automaton (CA) traffic flow model for single-lane roads, the cars’ moving rules when there were pedestrians walking on the crosswalk was redefined. A series of simulations were carried out to reveal the cars’ travel process and the influence of pedestrians crossing behavior on traffic flow. The simulations results show the redefined model can be used to study not only the characteristics of traffic flow in the vicinity of crosswalks on provincial highways but also some complex traffic problems such as traffic breakdown, synchronized flow, and moving jams. Moreover, some suggestions about signal control for the pedestrians crossing in the future were presented. Thus, this work is helpful for managing traffic flow and improving road safety and capacity in the vicinity of crosswalks on provincial highways in China.
An 8-Bit Ultra-Low-Power, Low-Voltage Current Steering DAC Utilizing a New Segmented Structure
Authors: Bandali Mehdi , Hassanzadeh Alireza , Ghashghaie Masoume , Hashemipour Omid
Published: October 2018

In this paper, an 8-bit ultra-low-power, low-voltage current steering digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is presented. The proposed DAC employs a new segmented structure that results in low integral nonlinearity (INL) and high spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR). Moreover, this DAC utilizes a low-voltage current cell. The low-voltage characteristic of the current cell is achieved by connecting the body of MOSFET switches to their sources. Utilizing a low supply voltage along with a low bias current in the current cells results in about 623.81-[Formula: see text]W power consumption in 140-MS/s sample rate, which is very small compared to previous reports. The post-layout simulation results in 180-nm CMOS technology and [Formula: see text]-V supply voltage with the sample rate of 140[Formula: see text]MS/s show SFDR [Formula: see text] 64.37[Formula: see text]dB in the Nyquist range. The differential nonlinearity (DNL) and INL of the presented DAC are 0.1254 LSB and 0.1491 LSB, respectively.
Strongly graded vertex algebras generated by vertex Lie algebras
Authors: Pei Yufeng , Yang Jinwei
Published: October 2018

We construct three families of vertex algebras along with their modules from appropriate vertex Lie algebras, using the constructions in [Vertex Lie algebra, vertex Poisson algebras and vertex algebras, in Recent Developments in Infinite-Dimensional Lie Algebras and Conformal Field Theory[Formula: see text] Proceedings of an International Conference at University of Virginia[Formula: see text] May 2000, in Contemporary Mathematics, Vol. 297 (American Mathematical Society, 2002), pp. 69–96] by Dong, Li and Mason. These vertex algebras are strongly graded vertex algebras introduced in [Logarithmic tensor category theory for generalized modules for a conformal vertex algebra, I: Introduction and strongly graded algebras and their generalized modules, in Conformal Field Theories and Tensor Categories[Formula: see text] Proceedings of a Workshop Held at Beijing International Center for Mathematics Research, eds. C. Bai, J. Fuchs, Y.-Z. Huang, L. Kong, I. Runkel and C. Schweigert, Mathematical Lectures from Beijing University, Vol. 2 (Springer, New York, 2014), pp. 169–248] by Huang, Lepowsky and Zhang in their logarithmic tensor category theory and can also be realized as vertex algebras associated to certain well-known infinite dimensional Lie algebras. We classify irreducible [Formula: see text]-gradable weak modules for these vertex algebras by determining their Zhu’s algebras. We find examples of strongly graded generalized modules for these vertex algebras that satisfy the [Formula: see text]-cofiniteness condition introduced in [Differential equations and logarithmic intertwining operators for strongly graded vertex algebra, Comm. Contemp. Math. 19(2) (2017) 1650009] by the second author. In particular, by a result of the second author [Differential equations and logarithmic intertwining operators for strongly graded vertex algebra, Comm. Contemp. Math. 19(2) (2017) 1650009, 26 pp.], the convergence and extension property for products and iterates of logarithmic intertwining operators in [Y.-Z. Huang, J. Lepowsky and L. Zhang, Logarithmic tensor category theory for generalized modules for a conformal vertex algebra, VII: Convergence and extension properties and applications to expansion for intertwining maps, preprint (2011); arXiv:1110.1929 ] among such strongly graded generalized modules is verified.
Periodic minimal surfaces embedded in ℝ3 derived from the singly periodic Scherk minimal surface
Authors: Morabito Filippo
Published: October 2018

We construct three kinds of periodic minimal surfaces embedded in [Formula: see text] We show the existence of a [Formula: see text]-parameter family of minimal surfaces invariant under the action of a translation by [Formula: see text] which seen from a distance look like [Formula: see text] equidistant parallel planes intersecting orthogonally [Formula: see text] equidistant parallel planes, [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] We also consider the case where the surfaces are asymptotic to [Formula: see text] equidistant parallel planes intersecting orthogonally infinitely many equidistant parallel planes. In this case, the minimal surfaces are doubly periodic, precisely they are invariant under the action of two orthogonal translations. Last we construct triply periodic minimal surfaces which are invariant under the action of three orthogonal translations in the case of two stacks of infinitely many equidistant parallel planes which intersect orthogonally.
An almost rigidity theorem and its applications to noncompact RCD(0,N) spaces with linear volume growth
Authors: Huang Xian-Tao
Published: October 2018

The main results of this paper consist of two parts. First, we obtain an almost rigidity theorem which roughly says that on an [Formula: see text] space, when a domain between two level sets of a distance function has almost maximal volume compared to that of a cylinder, then this portion is close to a cylinder as a metric space. Second, we apply this almost rigidity theorem to study noncompact [Formula: see text] spaces with linear volume growth. More precisely, we obtain the sublinear growth of diameter of geodesic spheres, and study the non-existence problem of nonconstant harmonic functions with polynomial growth on such [Formula: see text] spaces.
Arguing with Behavior Influence: A Model for Web-Based Group Decision Support Systems
Authors: Carneiro João , Martinho Diogo , Marreiros Goreti , Novais Paulo
Published: October 2018

In this work, we propose an argumentation-based dialogue model designed for Web-based Group Decision Support Systems, that considers the decision-makers’ intentions. The intentions are modeled as behavior styles which allow agents to interact with each other as humans would in face-to-face meetings. In addition, we propose a set of arguments that can be used by the agents to perform and evaluate requests, while considering the agents’ behavior style. The inclusion of decision-makers’ intentions intends to create a more reliable and realistic process. Our model proved, in different contexts, that higher levels of consensus and satisfaction are achieved when using agents modeled with behavior styles compared to agents without any features to represent the decision-makers’ intentions.
Quality of life after spinal cord injury in Thai individuals: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Foongchomcheay Anchalee , Eitivipart Aitthanatt Chachris , Kespichayawattana Jiraporn , Muangngoen Monticha
Published: October 2018

Background: Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) face various health-related difficulties. Physical limitations and health-related complications in individuals with SCI can lead to activity restrictions and lowering their quality of life (QoL). It is important to assess the QoL in population with SCI to gain more valuable insights into aspects of health-related QoL (HRQoL) that could play a key role in improving care for persons with SCI.

Objective: To quantitatively measure the QoL in persons with SCI in Thailand and expand the results through qualitative investigation to provide meaning, context and depth of “how” and “why” they rated, defined and addressed their QoL in that way.

Methods: The philosophical assumption of this study was set based on the post-positivist views using mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. The quantitative data were collected and analyzed in 101 Thai individuals with SCI using standardized Thai version of the Short Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2), followed by the qualitative investigation of semi-structured interviews in 11 volunteers who participated in the SF-36v2 phase. Priority is given to quantitative data. The data integration occurred at the qualitative data collection through the data interpretation and discussion stage.

Results: With regard to quantitative data, a recent study found a statistically significant difference [Formula: see text] in four domains for male and three domains for the female when comparing the SF-36 Thai normative data with SF-36v2 SCI data. Qualitative data revealed that the most salient themes of HRQoL in individuals with SCI were “supporting factors toward QoL” and “driving force post injury”. The integration of the findings revealed that the qualitative data could individually explain and define QoL as well as support quantitative results. The connection of both findings indicated that the higher scores in psycho-social variables and lower scores in physical domains of SF-36v2 in Thai persons with SCI may be due to unique Thai family traditions and community values.

Conclusion: The scores on SF-36v2 and the replies in the qualitative investigation of QoL themes of Thai individuals with SCI were similar to those of other research, but this study is unique in that it specifically represents the Thai socio-environmental-cultural aspects.
Creation of an atlas of lake-sediment geochemistry of Western Labrador and Northeastern Québec
Authors: Amor Stephen , McCurdy Martin , Garrett Robert
Published: October 2018

A geochemical database of 21 678 lake-sediment samples, analysed for 53 elements by ICP-MS after aqua-regia digestion, has been created. Statistical tests and plots of the combined data (in some cases, after the application of levelling functions) show that the disharmony that existed previously – between analyses that employed digestions of differing strengths – can be largely alleviated. This allows the creation of integrated geochemical maps of an area of almost 300 000 km
2
.

Many of the large-scale geochemical features revealed by the data are related to the rocks of the Paleoproterozoic ‘Labrador Trough’, within the region termed the New Quebec Orogen. However, those that are defined by an association of Rb, K, Ti, Li, Cs, Mg, Ga, Sn and Th, correlated negatively with LOI, Hg, Se, S, Ag, Cd, Ca and Sr may be related to the relative amounts of organic and inorganic clastic material in the lake sediment, rather than bedrock geology.

It is hoped that the merged data will provide assistance to the geological mapping of this large area, as well as providing a stimulus for mineral exploration.
A Fringe Topic in a Fragile Network
Authors: Mazur Rebecca , Woodland Rebecca H.
Published: October 2018

In this NSF CSforALL funded research study, the authors sought to understand the extent to which an urban district's teacher instructional support network enabled or constrained capacity to implement and diffuse Digital Literacy and Computer Science (DLCS) instructional practices throughout the K-12 curriculum. Social network analysis was used to investigate informal teacher advice-seeking and advice-giving patterns of DLCS support. Network measures of cohesion and centrality were computed. Findings revealed that DLCS-focused teacher support networks tend to exhibit very low density, have relatively few ties, include a high number of isolates (teachers with no connections), and centralize around a particular actor. In addition, a low level of overlap was found between DLCS networks and primary instructional networks. Overall, study findings suggest that teacher networks are not well-structured to support the flow of DLCS advice and support. The authors conclude that examining and strengthening teacher networks of instructional support may be a crucial step for educational leaders concerned with school improvement and the diffusion of DLCS curricula in US schools.
Public Opinion and Criminal Justice Policy: Theory and Research
Authors: Pickett Justin T.
Published: October 2018

This article reviews evidence for the effects of public opinion on court decision-making, capital punishment policy and use, correctional expenditures, and incarceration rates. It also assesses evidence about the factors explaining changes over time in public support for punitive crime policies. Most of this evidence originates from outside of our discipline. I identify two reasons that criminologists have not made more progress toward understanding the opinion-policy relationship. One is an unfamiliarity with important theoretical and empirical developments in political science pertaining to public policy mood, parallel opinion change, majoritarian congruence, and dynamic representation. Another is our overreliance on cross-sectional studies and preoccupation with comparing support levels elicited with different questions (global versus specific) and under different conditions (uninformed versus informed). I show how the resultant findings have contributed to misunderstandings about the nature of public opinion and created a false summit in our analysis of the opinion-policy relationship.
Cyber-Dependent Crimes: An Interdisciplinary Review
Authors: Maimon David , Louderback Eric R.
Published: October 2018

Online crime has increased in severity and frequency over the past two decades. However, although several scientific disciplines have commonly employed criminological theories to explain this phenomenon, mainstream criminology has devoted relatively scant attention to the investigation of cyber-criminals and their victims. Drawing on this assumption that more criminological attention should be given to this important type of crime, this article presents an interdisciplinary review of the current state of research on cyber-dependent crimes (i.e., crimes that require the use of computer technology to exist, such as hacking). We begin with a brief discussion of the ecosystem of cyber-dependent crimes and the key actors who operate within it, including the online offenders and enablers, targets and victims, and guardians. Next, we review empirical scholarship that pertains to each actor while distinguishing between nontheoretical research and theoretically driven studies. We then detail methodological and theoretical avenues that should be pursued by future research and discuss why criminological research should lead policy initiatives and guide the design of technical tools that improve the scientific community's ability to generate a safer and more secure cyber-environment. We conclude by discussing potential ways in which cyber-dependent crime research could pave the way for the advancement of mainstream criminological theory and research.
Effects of exercise training and TrkB blockade on cardiac function and BDNF-TrkB signaling postmyocardial infarction in rats
Authors: Lee Heow Won , Ahmad Monir , Weldrick Jonathan J. , Wang Hong-Wei , Burgon Patrick G. , Leenen Frans H. H.
Published: October 2018

Exercise training is beneficial for preserving cardiac function postmyocardial infarction (post-MI), but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. We investigated one possible mechanism, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) signaling, with the TrkB blocker ANA-12 (0.5 mg·kg−1·day−1). Male Wistar rats underwent sham surgery or ligation of the left descending coronary artery. The surviving MI rats were allocated as follows: sedentary MI rats treated with vehicle, exercise-trained MI rats treated with vehicle, and exercise-trained MI rats treated with ANA-12. Exercise training was done 5 days/wk for 4 wk on a motor-driven treadmill. At the end, left ventricular (LV) function was evaluated by echocardiography and a Millar catheter. Mature BDNF and downstream effectors of BDNF-TrkB signaling, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), Akt, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), were assessed in the noninfarct area of the LV by Western blot analysis. Exercise training increased stroke volume and cardiac index and attenuated the decrease in ejection fraction (EF) and increase in LV end-diastolic pressure post-MI. ANA-12 blocked the improvement of EF and attenuated the increases in stroke volume and cardiac index but did not affect LV end-diastolic pressure. Exercise training post-MI prevented decreases in mature BDNF, phosphorylated (p-)CaMKII, p-Akt, and p-AMPKα expression. These effects were all blocked by ANA-12 except for p-AMPKα. In conclusion, the exercise-induced improvement of EF is mediated by the BDNF-TrkB axis and the downstream effectors CaMKII and Akt. BDNF-TrkB signaling appears to contribute to the improvement in systolic function by exercise training.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Exercise training improves ejection fraction and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and increases stroke volume and cardiac index in rats postmyocardial infarction (post-MI). The improvement of EF but not LVEDP is mediated by activation of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) axis and downstream effectors Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and Akt. This suggests that activation of BDNF-TrkB signaling and CaMKII and Akt is a promising target to attenuate progressive cardiac dysfunction post-MI.
Fetal Surgery Decreases Anesthesia-Induced Neuroapoptosis in the Mid-Gestational Fetal Ovine Brain
Authors: Olutoye Olutoyin A. , Cruz Stephanie M. , Akinkuotu Adesola C. , Sheikh Fariha , Zamora Irving J. , Yu Ling , Adesina Adekunle M. , Olutoye Oluyinka O.
Published: October 2018

Background: Studies demonstrating an association between anesthesia and brain cell death (neuroapoptosis) in young animals were performed without accompanying surgery. This study tests the hypothesis that fetal surgery decreases anesthesia-induced neuroapoptosis. Materials and Methods: Seventy-day-pregnant ewes received 2% isoflurane for 1 h (low dose [LD]) or 4% for 3 h (high dose [HD]) with or without fetal surgery (S). Unexposed fetuses served as controls (C). Fetal brains were processed for neuroapoptosis using anti-caspase-3 antibodies. Data were analyzed using ANOVA. Results: Twenty-eight fetal sheep were evaluated. Dentate gyrus neuroapoptosis was lower in the HD+S group (13.1 ± 3.76 × 105/mm3) than in the HD (19.1 ± 1.40 × 105/mm3, p = 0.012) and C groups (18.3 ± 3.55 × 105/mm3, p = 0.035). In the pyramidal layer of the hippocampus, neuroapoptosis was lower in the HD+S group (8.11 ± 4.88 × 105/mm3) than in the HD (14.8 ± 2.82 × 105/mm3, p = 0.006) and C groups (14.1 ± 4.54 × 105/mm3, p = 0.019). The LD+S group showed a trend towards a significant decrease in neuroapoptosis in the pyramidal layer (LD+S 7.51 ± 1.48 vs. LD 13.5 ± 1.87 vs. C 14.1 ± 4.54 × 105/mm3, p = 0.07) but not in the dentate gyrus. Fetal surgery did not affect neuroapoptosis in the frontal cortex or endplate. Conclusions: Fetal surgery decreases isoflurane-induced neuroapoptosis in the dentate gyrus and the pyramidal layer of mid-gestational fetal sheep. Long-term effects of these observations on memory and learning deserve further exploration.
The Accuracy of a Large V Wave in the Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure Waveform for Diagnosing Current Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Hayashi Hideyuki , Abe Yukio , Morita Yusuke , Nakane Eisaku , Haruna Yoshizumi , Haruna Tetsuya , Inoko Moriaki
Published: October 2018

Background: Large V waves in the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) waveform traditionally indicate severe mitral regurgitation (MR). However, our understanding of MR etiology and hemodynamics has changed in recent decades. Objectives: We aimed to reevaluate the association between large V waves and current MR to determine whether traditional large V wave criteria remain optimal. Method: We reviewed 1,964 right heart catheterizations (RHCs) performed at our institution from 2010 to 2017, and retrospectively selected 126 patients with sinus rhythm who underwent echocardiography within 2 days (0.3 ± 0.5 days) of the RHC. The diagnostic accuracy of 3 traditional criteria for large V waves was assessed, and the optimal cut-off points were determined as those with the maximal Youden indices. Results: Severe MR was observed on echocardiography in 26 (21%) patients, including 15 (58%) with Carpentier classification type II MR and 11 (42%) with type IIIB MR. Large V waves, defined as a difference between the peak V wave and mean PCWP ≥10 mm Hg, had a high specificity of 94% (95% confidence interval: 87–98%), but a low sensitivity of 27% (12–48%) for diagnosing severe MR. The optimal cut-off point for the V wave was 3 mm Hg above the mean PCWP, with a sensitivity of 73% (52–88%) and a specificity of 64% (54–73%). Conclusions: For diagnosing current MR, the cut-off point for a large V wave should be reduced from that previously employed for rheumatic valvular heart disease. This information may be useful in guiding contemporary transcatheter therapies for MR under RHC monitoring.
Peripartum Cardiomyopathy with Respiratory Failure and Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Minami Sakura , Taniguchi Hayato , Abe Takeru , Doi Tomoki , Takeuchi Ichiro
Published: October 2018

We describe the case of a 33-year-old female who went into cardiac arrest outside the hospital 7 days postpartum. We diagnosed her with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). After the return of spontaneous circulation, she suffered from acute pulmonary edema and hypoxia. The patient received intensive care after gaining return of spontaneous circulation. We also present an effective use of venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO), which led to a rather short stay in the intensive care unit (ICU). An echocardiogram showed global hypokinesis with an ejection fraction of 28% and a left ventricular dilation with a diastolic dimension. The patient’s lungs recovered steadily during her stay in the ICU. VV-ECMO was disconnected on the seventh day of hospitalization, and intubation was withdrawn on the tenth day. On the thirteenth day, she was released from the ICU and transferred to another hospital. If a pregnant or postpartum woman presents with cardiopulmonary arrest, heart diseases such as PPCM should be considered.
Is Expanded Hemodialysis an Option to Online Hemodiafiltration for Small- and Middle-Sized Molecules Clearance?
Authors: Reque Javier , Pérez Alba Alejandro , Panizo Nayara , Sánchez-Canel Juan José , Pascual Maria Jose , Pons Prades Ramón
Published: October 2018

Background: Recent evidence suggests a better reduction rate of some uremic toxins with expanded hemodialysis (HDx). Methods: Prospective study including 8 hemodialysis patients. We divided the study in 2 phases; within the first one, we assigned 4 patients (group 1) to undergo online hemodiafiltration with a PF 210H dialyzer, and the other 4 patients (group 2) to undergo HDx with the high retention onset Theranova 500 dialyzer during 24 sessions. Later, during the second phase and after a washout period, the same patients were switched to receive HDx (group 1) and HDF (group 2). Results: No differences were found in the Urea and β2-microglobulin reduction ratio. However, in the case of myoglobin, the reduction ratio with HDF was 35 vs. 60% with HDx (p < 0.001). Similarly, in the case of prolactin, the reduction ratio with HDF was 45 and 61% with HDx (p < 0.001). Conclusions: We conclude that HDx is not inferior to online hemodiafiltration in the clearance of small and middle molecules and could be superior in the clearance of larger middle molecules.
Low-Grade Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma - a Review
Authors: Thiel Falk C. , Halmen Sonja
Published: October 2018

Like other uterine sarcomas, low-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas (LG-ESS) are a very rare tumor entity. In the past, research studies therefore discussed the various different types of the disease in combination. In addition, the classification of endometrial stromal tumors presented difficulties for quite some time so that in earlier studies it was not always possible to precisely distinguish between LG-ESS, high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma, and undifferentiated uterine sarcoma. For LG-ESS, surgery with hysterectomy and adnexectomy is the first-line treatment. The benefits of lymphadenectomy and tumor debulking are unclear. Endocrine therapy with gestagens and aromatase inhibitors is under discussion to provide adjuvant treatment for patients with advanced stages of the disease. As radiotherapy only provides locoregional control, and in view of the usually good prognosis of patients with LG-ESS, its benefits need to be weighed against its side effects. In the case of recurrence, repeat surgery is the first choice. Further research studies viewing LG-ESS as a distinct entity are needed in order to improve treatment options for patients with LG-ESS.
Microfluidic Modeling of Thrombolysis
Authors: Loyau Stéphane , Ho-Tin-Noé Benoit , Bourrienne Marie-Charlotte , Boulaftali Yacine , Jandrot-Perrus Martine
Published: October 2018

Objective—

Despite the high clinical relevance of thrombolysis, models for its study in human flowing blood are lacking. Our objective was to develop a microfluidic model for comparative evaluation of thrombolytic therapeutic strategies.

Approach and Results—

Citrated human blood was supplemented with 3,3′-dihexyloxacarbocyanine iodide and Alexa Fluor 647 fibrinogen conjugate, recalcified, and perfused for 3 to 4 minutes at venous or arterial wall shear rate in microfluidic flow chambers coated with collagen and tissue factor to generate nonocclusive fluorescent thrombi. A second perfusion was performed for 10 minutes with rhodamine-6G-labeled citrated whole blood, supplemented or not with r-tPA (recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator), fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated r-tPA, and Alexa Fluor 568 plasminogen conjugate. Plasminogen and r-tPA bound to preformed thrombi and r-tPA caused a concentration-dependent decrease in thrombus fibrin content (up to 50% reduction at 15 µg/mL r-tPA) as assessed by fluorescence microscopy. Fibrinolysis was confirmed by measurement of D-dimers in the output flow. Remarkably, despite ongoing fibrinolysis, new platelets continued to be recruited to the thrombus under lysis. Under the arterial condition, combining r-tPA with hirudin enhanced fibrinolysis but did not prevent the recruitment of new platelets, which was, however, prevented by antiplatelet agents (ticagrelor or the GPVI [glycoprotein VI]-blocking antigen-binding fragment 9O12).

Conclusions—

Our microfluidic thrombolysis model is suitable for studying thrombolysis and testing the efficacy of drugs used in combination with r-tPA. Real-time analysis of fibrin and platelets during r-tPA-mediated fibrinolysis at arterial or venous flow conditions showed that platelets continue to accumulate during fibrinolysis. Such platelet accumulation may impair r-tPA-mediated recanalization.
Contribution of the TNF-α (Tumor Necrosis Factor-α)–TNF-Rp55 (Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor p55) Axis in the Resolution of Venous Thrombus
Authors: Nosaka Mizuho , Ishida Yuko , Kimura Akihiko , Kuninaka Yumi , Taruya Akira , Furuta Machi , Mukaida Naofumi , Kondo Toshikazu
Published: October 2018

Objective—

Deep vein thrombosis results from a combination of risk factors including genetic conditions, obesity, drugs, pregnancy, aging, and malignancy. We examined pathophysiological roles of the TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α)–TNF-Rp55 (tumor necrosis factor receptor p55) axis in thrombus resolution using
Tnfrp5
5
−/−
(TNF-Rp55–deficient) mice.

Approach and Results—

On ligating the inferior vena cava of wild-type (WT) mice, venous thrombi formed and grew progressively until 5 days but shrunk to <50% of the thrombus weight at day 14. Concomitantly, inferior vena cava ligation enhanced intrathrombotic gene expression of
Tnfa
and
Tnfrp55
, and intrathrombotic macrophages expressed both TNF-α and TNF-Rp55 proteins. In
Tnfrp5
5
−/−
mice treated with the same manner, thrombus formed at a similar rate for 5 days, but shrinking was delayed compared with WT mice. Moreover, the blood flow recovery in thrombosed inferior vena cava was suspended in
Tnfrp5
5
−/−
mice compared with WT mice. Intrathrombotic
Plau
(urokinase-type plasminogen activator),
Mmp2
(matrix metalloproteinase 2), and
Mmp9
(matrix metalloproteinase 9) mRNA expression was significantly reduced in
Tnfrp5
5
−/−
mice, compared with WT ones. Supportingly, the administration of anti–TNF-α antibody or TNF-α inhibitor (etanercept) delayed the thrombus resolution in WT mice. Furthermore, TNF-α treatment enhanced gene expression of
Plau
,
Mmp2
, and
Mmp9
in WT macrophages but not
Tnfrp5
5
−/−
macrophages. These effects were significantly suppressed by ERK (extracellular signal regulated kinase) and NF-κB (nuclear factor-kappa B) inhibitors. Therefore, the lack of TNF-Rp55 has detrimental roles in the thrombus resolution by suppressing PLAU, MMP-2, and MMP-9 expression. In contrast, TNF-α administration accelerated thrombus resolution in WT but not
Tnfrp5
5
−/−
mice.

Conclusions—

The TNF-α–TNF-Rp55 axis may have essential roles in the resolution of venous thrombus in mice.
Inflammasome Activation Aggravates Cutaneous Xanthomatosis and Atherosclerosis in ACAT1 (Acyl-CoA Cholesterol Acyltransferase 1) Deficiency in Bone Marrow
Authors: Wakabayashi Tetsuji , Takahashi Manabu , Yamamuro Daisuke , Karasawa Tadayoshi , Takei Akihito , Takei Shoko , Yamazaki Hisataka , Nagashima Shuichi , Ebihara Ken , Takahashi Masafumi , Ishibashi Shun
Published: October 2018

Objective—

ACAT1 (Acyl-CoA cholesterol acyltransferase 1) esterifies cellular free cholesterol, thereby converting macrophages to cholesteryl ester-laden foam cells in atherosclerotic lesions and cutaneous xanthoma. Paradoxically, however, loss of ACAT1 in bone marrow causes the aggravation of atherosclerosis and the development of severe cutaneous xanthoma in hyperlipidemic mice. Recently, it has been reported that cholesterol crystals activate NLRP3 (NACHT, LRR [leucine-rich repeats], and PYD [pyrin domain] domain-containing protein 3) inflammasomes, thereby contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to clarify the role of NLRP3 inflammasomes in the worsening of atherosclerosis and cutaneous xanthoma induced by ACAT1 deficiency.

Approach and Results—

Ldlr
-null mice were transplanted with bone marrow from WT (wild type) mice and mice lacking ACAT1, NLRP3, or both. After the 4 types of mice were fed high-cholesterol diets, we compared their atherosclerosis and skin lesions. The mice transplanted with
Acat1
-null bone marrow developed severe cutaneous xanthoma, which was filled with numerous macrophages and cholesterol clefts and had markedly increased expression of inflammatory cytokines, and increased atherosclerosis. Loss of NLRP3 completely reversed the cutaneous xanthoma, whereas it improved the atherosclerosis only partially.
Acat1
-null peritoneal macrophages showed enhanced expression of CHOP (C/EBP [CCAAT/enhancer binding protein] homologous protein) and TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α) but no evidence of inflammasome activation, after treatment with acetylated LDL (low-density lipoprotein).

Conclusions—

Elimination of ACAT1 in bone marrow-derived cells aggravates cutaneous xanthoma and atherosclerosis. The development of cutaneous xanthoma is induced mainly via the NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Interactions Between Regulatory Variants in
CYP7A1
(Cholesterol 7α-Hydroxylase) Promoter and Enhancer Regions Regulate CYP7A1 Expression
Authors: Wang Danxin , Hartmann Katherine , Seweryn Michal , Sadee Wolfgang
Published: October 2018

Background:

CYP7A1 (cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase) catalyzes the rate-limiting step in bile acid biosynthesis from cholesterol—a main pathway for cholesterol removal from the body.
CYP7A1
single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are associated with total cholesterol and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels, risk of cardiovascular diseases, and other phenotypes; however, results are inconsistent, and causative variants remain uncertain, except for a frequent promoter SNP (rs3808607).

Methods:

We used chromatin conformation capture (4C assay), chromatin immunoprecipitation qPCR assay in hepatocytes, and CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)-mediated genome editing in hepatocellular carcinoma cell line cells to identify regulatory regions for CYP7A1. We then screened for SNPs located in regulatory regions, testing effects on reporter gene assays and on hepatic CYP7A1 expression by measuring allelic mRNA expression imbalance.

Results:

4C assays showed several regions interacting with
CYP7A1
promoter. CRISPR-mediated genome editing in hepatocellular carcinoma cell line cells revealed a novel
CYP7A1
enhancer and a repressor region, located >10 kb downstream of the
CYP7A1
promoter. SNP screening with an allelic mRNA expression imbalance in human livers and reporter gene assays identified a frequent functional SNP (rs9297994) located in the downstream
CYP7A1
enhancer region. SNP rs9297994 is in high linkage disequilibrium with promoter SNP rs3808607 but has opposite effects on CYP7A1 mRNA expression. Their combined effects using a 2-SNP model robustly associate with hepatic CYP7A1 mRNA expression, ranging >2 orders of magnitude. Moreover, only the 2-SNP model, but not each SNP alone, is significantly associated with LDL levels, risk of coronary artery disease, statin response, and diabetes mellitus in several clinical cohorts, including CATHGEN (Catheterization Genetics) and Framingham.

Conclusions:

Two interacting regulatory SNPs modulate CYP7A1 expression and are associated with risk of coronary artery disease and diabetes mellitus.
Procedural Success and Outcomes With Increasing Use of Enabling Strategies for Chronic Total Occlusion Intervention
Authors: Kinnaird Tim , Gallagher Sean , Cockburn James , Sirker Alex , Ludman Peter , de Belder Mark , Smith Elliot , Anderson Richard , Strange Julian , Mamas Mamas , Hildick-Smith David ,   on behalf of the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society and the National Institute for Cardiovascular Outcomes Research
Published: October 2018

Background:

Enabling strategies (ESs) are increasingly used during percutaneous coronary intervention for chronic total occlusive disease (CTO-PCI), enhancing procedural success. Using the British Cardiovascular Society dataset, we examined changes in the use of ESs and procedural/clinical outcomes for CTO-PCI.

Methods and Results:

ESs were defined as intravascular ultrasound, rotational/laser atherectomy, dual arterial access, use of microcatheters, penetration catheters or CrossBoss, and procedures categorized by number of ESs used. Data were analysed on all elective CTO-PCI procedures performed in England and Wales between 2006 and 2014. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of procedural success. During 28 050 CTO-PCIs, there were significant temporal increases in ES use. There was a stepwise increase in CTO success with increased ES use, with 83.8% of cases successful where ≥3 ESs were used. Overall, CTO-PCI success rate for the whole cohort increased from 55.4% in 2006 to 66.9% in 2014 (
P
<0.001), but the greatest increase in procedural success was associated with ≥3 ES use. In multivariable analysis, any ES use and the number of ESs used were predictive of procedural success. Coronary perforation increased from 1.2% with zero ES use to 4.0% with ≥3 (
P
<0.001). After adjustment, although arterial complication, in-hospital bleeding, in-hospital mortality, and major adverse cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events remained more likely with ES use, 30-day mortality was not significantly different between groups.

Conclusions:

ES use during CTO-PCI was associated with significant improvements in CTO-PCI success. ES use was associated with increased procedural complications and in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events, but not with 30-day mortality.
Intravascular Brachytherapy for the Management of Repeated Multimetal-Layered Drug-Eluting Coronary Stent Restenosis
Authors: Varghese Mithun J. , Bhatheja Samit , Baber Usman , Kezbor Safwan , Chincholi Aditi , Chamaria Surbhi , Buckstein Michael , Bakst Richard , Kini Annapoorna , Sharma Samin
Published: October 2018

Background:

Because of the widespread acceptance of percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stents as an effective treatment strategy for in-stent restenosis, it is common to encounter multimetal layer stent restenosis in the recent years. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of such patients treated with intravascular brachytherapy (IVBT) in comparison with other percutaneous options.

Methods and Results:

We enrolled patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention during the period between 2011 and 2015 for recurrent drug-eluting stents in-stent restenosis with at least 2 layers of stents at the lesion site. This analysis compared patients who underwent treatment with IVBT and those who did not (non-IVBT group). The primary end point measured was major adverse cardiac events defined as a composite of target lesion revascularization, myocardial infarction, and all-cause mortality at 12 months. Adjusted associations were measured using propensity score matching. A total of 328 percutaneous coronary intervention patients met the eligibility criteria, of which 197 patients received IVBT, and 131 patients underwent routine percutaneous intervention. The primary end point was significantly lower in patients undergoing IVBT (13.2% and 28.2%;
P
=0.01). A propensity score matching for risk factors of in-stent restenosis identified 182 patients. The advantages of IVBT with regard to 1-year major adverse cardiac events were confirmed in this matched cohort (13.2% and 30.8%; adjusted hazard ratio [95% CI]: 0.37 [0.18–0.73];
P
<0.01).

Conclusions:

In this analysis, IVBT led to significantly lower major adverse cardiac events in patients with multilayered drug-eluting stents restenosis when compared with other percutaneous options at 1-year follow-up.
Prediction of Ischemic and Bleeding Events Using the Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Score in an Unrestricted Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Population
Authors: Brener Sorin J. , Kirtane Ajay J. , Rinaldi Michael J. , Stuckey Thomas D. , Witzenbichler Bernhard , Weisz Giora , Neumann Franz-Josef , Metzger D. Christopher , Henry Timothy D. , Cox David A. , Duffy Peter L. , Mazzaferri Ernest L. , Gurbel Paul A. , Brodie Bruce R. , Mehran Roxana , McAndrew Thomas , Stone Gregg W.
Published: October 2018

Background:

The dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) risk score was developed from the DAPT trial to inform the optimal duration of DAPT after percutaneous coronary intervention. We assessed the performance of the DAPT score in the ADAPT-DES (Assessment of Dual AntiPlatelet Therapy with drug-eluting stents) all-comers registry and tested the utility of additional predictors of adverse events.

Methods and Results:

Outcomes between 1 and 2 years were examined according to DAPT score ≥2 versus <2, adjusted for DAPT continuation as a time-dependent variable. To assess the incremental utility of variables not included in the DAPT score, baseline high platelet reactivity was added to the ischemia model, and high platelet reactivity, baseline hemoglobin, and warfarin use 1 year after percutaneous coronary intervention were added to the bleeding model. Among 8582 patients enrolled in ADAPT-DES, 5397 were event-free after 1 year. Between 1 and 2 years, ischemic (myocardial infarction or stent thrombosis) and bleeding events occurred in 75 (1.5%) and 124 (2.3%) patients, respectively. Patients with higher DAPT scores (≥2 versus <2) had higher rates of myocardial infarction or stent thrombosis (1.9% versus 1.1%;
P
=0.01) and similar rates of bleeding (2.2% versus 2.4%, respectively;
P
=0.79). For the prediction of myocardial infarction or stent thrombosis, bleeding and death, DAPT score ≥2 had sensitivities of 57%, 41%, and 56%, respectively; specificities of 58%, 57%, and 58%, respectively; positive predictive values of 1.9%, 2.2%, and 2.1%, respectively; and negative predictive values of 99%, 98%, and 99%, respectively. Addition of baseline high platelet reactivity to the DAPT score did not improve discrimination for ischemic events. Addition of high platelet reactivity and 2 other bleeding covariates to the DAPT score marginally improved discrimination.

Conclusions:

In ADAPT-DES, the DAPT score was predictive of ischemic events between 1 and 2 years after drug-eluting stents. Prediction of bleeding improved marginally after addition of variables not incorporated in the DAPT score.
Newly Unearthed Wooden Figures for Averting Misfortune from Yangzhou
Authors: Shaoxuan Cheng , Gang Liu
Published: October 2018

This paper introduces several newly unearthed wooden figures from tombs in Yangzhou that date to the Five Dynasties period, and provides complete transcriptions and preliminary studies of the inscriptions on them. By comparing these figures to similar materials discovered elsewhere, this paper argues that the function of putting these kinds of wooden figurines in tombs was to avoid misfortune. The last portion of the paper briefly examines the origin of this custom and beliefs behind it.
Validation of a Rapid Attribution of the May/June 2016 Flood-Inducing Precipitation in France to Climate Change
Authors: Philip Sjoukje , Kew Sarah F. , Jan van Oldenborgh Geert , Aalbers Emma , Vautard Robert , Otto Friederike , Haustein Karsten , Habets Florence , Singh Roop
Published: October 2018

The extreme precipitation that resulted in historic flooding in central-northern France began 26 May 2016 and was linked to a large cutoff low. The floods caused some casualties and over a billion euros in damage. To objectively answer the question of whether anthropogenic climate change played a role, a near-real-time “rapid” attribution analysis was performed, using well-established event attribution methods, best available observational data, and as many climate simulations as possible within that time frame. This study confirms the results of the rapid attribution study. We estimate how anthropogenic climate change has affected the likelihood of exceedance of the observed amount of 3-day precipitation in April–June for the Seine and Loire basins. We find that the observed precipitation in the Seine basin was very rare, with a return period of hundreds of years. It was less rare on the Loire—roughly 1 in 20 years. We evaluated five climate model ensembles for 3-day basin-averaged precipitation extremes in April–June. The four ensembles that simulated the statistics agree well. Combining the results reduces the uncertainty and indicates that the probability of such rainfall has increased over the last century by about a factor of 2.2 (>1.4) on the Seine and 1.9 (>1.5) on the Loire due to anthropogenic emissions. These numbers are virtually the same as those in the near-real-time attribution study by van Oldenborgh et al. Together with the evaluation of the attribution of Storm Desmond by Otto et al., this shows that, for these types of events, near-real-time attribution studies are now possible.
The social inclusion of young people with serious mental illness: A narrative review of the literature and suggested future directions
Authors: Gardner Andrew , Filia Kate , Killackey Eóin , Cotton Sue
Published: October 2018

Background:

Social inclusion involves objective participatory (e.g. education/employment) and subjective (e.g. sense of belonging/acceptance) elements across multiple domains. It has been associated with enhanced physical and mental wellbeing yet is a novel construct in the empirical literature (i.e. measures have not been sufficiently developed).

Aims:

Young people with serious mental illness are reported to be socially excluded. It is unclear whether this is reflected in the social inclusion/exclusion literature. The aim of this narrative review is to determine whether such literature permits a comprehensive (i.e. multi-dimensional, objective and subjective) understanding of social inclusion among young people with serious mental illness.

Methods:

Searches to identify studies related to the social inclusion and/or exclusion of young people with serious mental illness were conducted on 16 February 2016, 24 August 2016, 16 February 2017, 24 August 2017 and 16 February 2018 in PsycINFO, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, Open Grey, Web of Science, Google and Google Scholar.

Results:

There is a paucity of research in the explicit social inclusion literature involving young people either with or without serious mental illness as participants. Literatures exist in related independent areas of research (e.g. employment, social networks), but such studies employ heterogeneous methodologies.

Conclusion:

Multi-dimensional measures of social inclusion incorporating objective and subjective indicators must be developed for young people with and without serious mental illness. This will enable the generation of normative and clinical data. Existing evidence for the social exclusion of young people with serious mental illness comes from objective indicators in isolated domains (e.g. unemployment). Subjective indicators continue to be under-researched. The above-described measures must be employed to further understanding of the apparent discrepancies between young people with serious mental illness and those without serious mental illness. This will elucidate the relationships between objective and subjective elements of social inclusion and the relationships between these elements and the psychological distress that young people with serious mental illness often experience. This has implications for intervention.