bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adsorption of Pharmaceutical Pollutants from Water Using Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Mellah Abdelkarim , Fernandes Soraia P. S. , Rodríguez Ramón , Otero José , Paz Jairo , Cruces Jacobo , Medina Dana D. , Djamila Harik , Espiña Begoña , Salonen Laura M.
Published: June 2018

Capture of pharmaceutical pollutants from water was studied using a novel fluorine‐bearing covalent organic framework TpBD‐(CF3)2, which showed ibuprofen adsorption capacity of 119 mg g−1 at neutral pH. This value is further enhanced at pH 2, highlighting the potential of this class of materials to serve as adsorbents even under harsh conditions. The adsorbed pharmaceutical can be recovered from TpBD‐(CF3)2 in high yield, offering the option of recycling both the adsorbent and the pharmaceutical. The high efficiency of ibuprofen capture as compared to other less lipophilic pharmaceuticals suggests that COFs can be pre‐designed for selective capture of contaminants.
Characterization of McDonald's intermediate part of the Central nucleus of the amygdala in the rat
Authors: Barbier Marie , Fellmann Dominique , Risold Pierre‐Yves
Published: June 2018

The actual organization of the central nucleus of the amygdala (CEA) in the rat is mostly based on cytoarchitecture and the distribution of several cell types, as described by McDonald in 1982. Four divisions were identified by this author. However, since this original work, one of these divisions, the intermediate part, has not been consistently recognized based on Nissl‐stained material. In the present study, we observed that a compact condensation of retrogradely labeled cells is found in the CEA after fluorogold injection in the anterior region of the tuberal lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) in the rat. We then searched for neurochemical markers of this cell condensation and found that it is quite specifically labeled for calbindin (Cb), but also contains calretinin (Cr), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and methionine‐enkephalin (Met‐Enk) immunohistochemical signals. These neurochemical features are specific to this cell group which, therefore, is distinct from the other parts of the CEA. We then performed cholera toxin injections in the mouse LHA to identify this cell group in this species. We found that neurons exist in the medial and rostral CEAl that project into the LHA but they have a less tight organization than in the rat.
Evaluating the roles of detailed endocardial structures on right ventricular haemodynamics by means of CFD simulations
Authors: Sacco Federica , Paun Bruno , Lehmkuhl Oriol , Iles Tinen L. , Iaizzo Paul A. , Houzeaux Guillaume , Vázquez Mariano , Butakoff Constantine , Aguado‐Sierra Jazmin
Published: June 2018

Computational modelling plays an important role in right ventricular (RV) haemodynamic analysis. However, current approaches use smoothed ventricular anatomies. The aim of this study is to characterise RV haemodynamics including detailed endocardial structures like trabeculae, moderator band, and papillary muscles. Four paired detailed and smoothed RV endocardium models (2 male and 2 female) were reconstructed from ex vivo human hearts high‐resolution magnetic resonance images. Detailed models include structures with ≥1 mm2 cross‐sectional area. Haemodynamic characterisation was done by computational fluid dynamics simulations with steady and transient inflows, using high‐performance computing. The differences between the flows in smoothed and detailed models were assessed using Q‐criterion for vorticity quantification, the pressure drop between inlet and outlet, and the wall shear stress. Results demonstrated that detailed endocardial structures increase the degree of intra‐ventricular pressure drop, decrease the wall shear stress, and disrupt the dominant vortex creating secondary small vortices. Increasingly turbulent blood flow was observed in the detailed RVs. Female RVs were less trabeculated and presented lower pressure drops than the males. In conclusion, neglecting endocardial structures in RV haemodynamic models may lead to inaccurate conclusions about the pressures, stresses, and blood flow behaviour in the cavity.
Exploring MXenes as Cathodes for Non‐Aqueous Lithium–Oxygen Batteries: Design Rules for Selectively Nucleating Li2O2
Authors: Lee Andrew , Krishnamurthy Dilip , Viswanathan Venkatasubramanian
Published: June 2018

The potential of MXenes, an emerging class of layered materials, is investigated as cathode materials for rechargeable Li–O2 battery chemistry, exploring MXenes from the primary standpoint of the key challenge of rechargeability, which translates to selectivity towards lithium peroxide, the primary discharge product. This study captures the effects of three primary electronic‐structure‐tuning variables: The termination group and its coverage of the surface as well as the transition metal. The trends are rationalized with regard to the thermodynamic nucleation overpotential, determined through the computed free energy of the adsorbed intermediate
. Design rules for identifying MXene cathode materials are developed based on discharge product selectivity and stability against potential decomposition products. Of all investigated MXenes, analysis suggests that Ni4N3(OH)2 exhibits the lowest nucleation overpotential and identifies mixed‐transition‐metal MXenes as a promising exploration direction.
A judgment and decision‐making model for plant behavior
Authors: Karban Richard , Orrock John L.
Published: June 2018

Recently plant biologists have documented that plants, like animals, engage in many activities that can be considered as behaviors, although plant biologists currently lack a conceptual framework to understand these processes. Borrowing the well‐established framework developed by psychologists, we propose that plant behaviors can be constructively modeled by identifying four distinct components: (1) a cue or stimulus that provides information, (2) a judgment whereby the plant perceives and processes this informative cue, (3) a decision whereby the plant chooses among several options based on their relative costs and benefits, and (4) action. Judgment for plants can be determined empirically by monitoring signaling associated with electrical, calcium, or hormonal fluxes. Decision‐making can be evaluated empirically by monitoring gene expression or differential allocation of resources. We provide examples of the utility of this judgment and decision‐making framework by considering cases in which plants either successfully or unsuccessfully induced resistance against attacking herbivores. Separating judgment from decision‐making suggests new analytical paradigms (i.e., Bayesian methods for judgment and economic utility models for decision‐making). Following this framework, we propose an experimental approach to plant behavior that explicitly manipulates the stimuli provided to plants, uses plants that vary in sensory abilities, and examines how environmental context affects plant responses. The concepts and approaches that follow from the judgment and decision‐making framework can shape how we study and understand plant‐herbivore interactions, biological invasions, plant responses to climate change, and the susceptibility of plants to evolutionary traps.
Considering people in systematic conservation planning: insights from land system science
Authors: Iwamura Takuya , le Polain de Waroux Yann , Mascia Michael B
Published: June 2018

Species and ecosystems worldwide continue to decline and disappear in spite of decades of investment in conservation efforts. Systematic conservation planning (SCP) is a field of study designed to improve conservation programs by identifying land configurations that, if protected, would most efficiently sustain biodiversity. Despite contributing to species persistence in landscapes, SCP has been criticized for replacing site‐based conservation plans that often consider social context. In contrast, land system science (LSS), an emerging field that explores the process of land‐use and land‐cover change, integrates social systems and processes into conservation analyses. We suggest that by incorporating insights from LSS on social processes (eg livelihood adaptation or agricultural intensification), SCP can enhance the legitimacy of conservation plans, thereby reducing the gap between conservation planning and implementation. This represents a necessary first step for SCP to reinvent itself as a decision‐support tool that helps to reconcile the long‐standing divide between landscape‐level species conservation and social needs.
The lived experience of rescuing people who have driven into floodwater: Understanding challenges and identifying areas for providing support
Authors: Keech Jacob J. , Smith Stephanie R. , Peden Amy E. , Hagger Martin S. , Hamilton Kyra
Published: June 2018

Background

Drowning is a major public health issue, with risk increasing during times of flood. Driving into floodwater is a major risk factor for flood‐related drowning and injury, and despite widespread public health campaigns, many people continue to undertake this risky behaviour and require rescue.

Purpose

We aimed to identify key challenges faced by emergency services personnel when rescuing those who have driven into floodwater, and to identify strategies for supporting rescuers in this important role.

Methods

Australian flood rescue operators (N = 8) who had previously rescued a driver who had driven into floodwater participated in semi‐structured interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Four challenges emerged from their experiences: involvement of untrained personnel; varying information provided by emergency telephone operators; behaviour of drivers complicating the rescue; people sightseeing floods or flood rescues or ignoring closed roads providing rescuers with sources of distraction and frustration.

Conclusions

We propose five strategies for translating these results into practice, including: training and protocol development for (i) emergency personnel and (ii) telephone operators; (iii) training for rescuers regarding non‐compliant rescuees; (iv) educating the public and (v) increasing compliance with closed roads. Current findings provide valuable insights into how rescuers can be supported in performing their roles, and implementation of these strategies has the potential to reduce fatalities occurring due to attempting to drive through floodwater.

So what?

The strategies presented have the potential to reduce the frequency and improve the outcomes of floodwater rescues, aiding in the prevention of injury and death.
Evaluation of the utility of peripheral blood vs bone marrow in karyotype and fluorescence in situ hybridization for myelodysplastic syndrome diagnosis
Authors: Asadi Fakhr Zhaleh , Mehrzad Valiollah , Izaditabar Amin , Salehi Mansoor
Published: June 2018

Objective

To clear the role of peripheral blood as a substitution for bone marrow in myelodysplastic syndrome and to evaluate the concordance between peripheral blood and bone marrow using karyotype and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) methods.

Methods

We examined 35 bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB) samples from myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patient using karyotype and FISH. Karyotype method for BM and PB samples performed using the standard protocol with an exception for peripheral blood in which growth factor for cultivation was not used. FISH testing was performed using a panel of MDS‐associated probes to detect 20q12, 20qter, 5q31, 5q33, 5p15 and chromosome 7 and 8 centromeres.

Results

Our results showed karyotypes of BM and PB are concordant in 74% of cases, while about 53% of these concordances were achieved from cases with normal karyotypes. However, the results of BM FISH were completely concordant with PB FISH.

Conclusion

Although peripheral blood karyotype is not trustworthy for MDS diagnosis, examining peripheral blood, using the FISH method, could be useful for clinical monitoring.
What is bred in the bone: Ecomorphological associations of pelvic girdle form in greater Antillean Anolis lizards
Authors: Tinius Alexander , Russell Anthony P. , Jamniczky Heather A. , Anderson Jason S.
Published: June 2018

Ecological niche partitioning of Anolis lizards of the Greater Antillean islands has been the focus of many comparative studies, and much is known about external morphological convergence that characterizes anole ecomorphs. Their internal anatomy, however, has rarely been explored in an ecomorphological context, and it remains unknown to what degree skeletal morphology tracks the diversity and ecological adaptation of these lizards. Herein, we employ CT scanning techniques to visualise the skeleton of the pelvic girdle in situ, and 3D geometric morphometrics to compare the form of the ilium, ischium, and pubis within and between ecomorphs. We examine 26 species of anoles representing four ecomorphs (trunk‐ground, trunk‐crown, crown‐giant, twig) from three islands (Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico). The subtle variations in pelvic girdle morphology discovered are directly associable with all three parameters that we set out to focus on: phylogenetic relationship, specimen size, and assigned ecomorph category. Morphometric variation that correlates with size and/or phylogenetic signal varies between species and cannot be eliminated from the data set without markedly reducing its overall variability. The discovered patterns of skeletal variation are consistent with the demands of locomotor mechanics pertinent to the structural configuration of the microhabitat of three of the four ecomorphs, with the fourth having no discernible distinctive features. This manifests itself chiefly in the relative anteroposterior extent and anteroventral inclination of the ilium and pubis, which differ between ecomorphs and are postulated to reflect optimization of the direction of muscle vectors of the femoral protractors and retractors. Our investigation of the form of the pelvic girdle of anoles allows us to generalize our findings to entire ecomorph categories within a broad phylogenetic and biogeographic context. Differences in the form and configuration of the postcranial skeleton are directly related to ecological patterns.
Histological studies on the development of porcine tonsils after birth
Authors: Yang Yunhan , Jing Yuchao , Wang Jialu , Yang Qian
Published: June 2018

Tonsils form the topographically first immune barrier of an organism against the invasion of pathogens. We used histology to study the development of tonsils of pigs after birth. At birth, the tonsils consist of diffuse lymphoid tissue without any lymphoid follicle aggregations. At the age of 7 days, lymphoid follicles appeared in the soft palate tonsil. The lymphoid layer of the nasopharyngeal tonsil, soft palate tonsil, and lingual tonsil became thicker, and lymphoid follicles in the lamina propria were clearly visible at the age of 21 days. Secondary lymphoid follicles were present in the nasopharyngeal tonsil at the age of 50 days, and in the soft palate tonsil at the age of 120 days. Dendritic cells (DCs), CD3+ T cells and IgA+ B cells in the soft palate tonsil, nasopharyngeal tonsil and lingual tonsil increased continuously, especially during the first 21 days. The results suggested that tonsils have an important role in local immune defense against invading antigens after birth and will be beneficial for understanding the mechanisms of immunity in these animals after nasal and oral vaccination.
Cardiac arrest after ibogaine intoxication
Authors: Steinberg Christian , Deyell Marc W.
Published: June 2018

Ibogaine is a psychoactive herbal medication with alleged antiaddiction properties. We report a case of ibogaine intoxication mimicking Long‐QT syndrome resulting in ventricular flutter and nearby cardiac arrest. A 61‐year‐old man experienced massive QT prolongation and ventricular flutter at a rate of 270 beats per minute requiring defibrillation after ingestion of a large dose of Ibogaine. The ingested dose of 65‐70 mg/kg represents the highest survived ibogaine dose reported to date. As a result of the long plasma half‐life of ibogaine, it took 7 days for the patient's QT interval to normalize.
Drastic Change in Orientation of Cylindrical Microdomains Upon Thermal Annealing in Thin Film of Block Copolymer Having Liquid Crystalline Moiety
Authors: Suita Shigeo , Maruyama Norihiko , Asaoka Sadayuki , Sasaki Sono , Sakurai Shinichi
Published: June 2018

We found a drastic change in orientation of cylindrical microdomains from perpendicular to parallel with respect to the film surface by thermal annealing for a liquid crystalline diblock copolymer, PEO122‐PMA(Az)50, consisting of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(methacrylate) with the side chain of a liquid crystalline azobenzene moiety. Non‐contact mode AFM (atomic force microscopy) is used to observe the orientation of cylinders on the surface of the film specimen. Perpendicular orientation of the PEO cylinders for the as‐spin‐coat specimen is found to change drastically to the parallel orientation as a function of the thermal annealing time at 140 °C. It is interesting to find inclined cylinders in the course of the transition. Grazing‐incidence small‐angle X‐ray scattering is also conducted to analyze the cylinder orientation in the interior of the specimen. As a result, the parallel orientation of the PEO cylinders is found even for the case when the inclined cylinders are detected by AFM on the surface of the film specimen.
Tribological Properties of Nanoclay Reinforced Polyamide‐6/Polypropylene Blend
Authors: Mimaroglu Abdullah , Unal Huseyin , Yetgin S. H.
Published: June 2018

In this study, the tribological performance of polyamide‐6 (PA‐6), polypropylene (PP), polyamide‐6/polypropylene (PA‐6/PP) polymer blend, and nanoclay reinforced polyamide‐6/polypropylene composite are investigated. Nanoclay reinforced polymer composite is produced by melt compounding using co‐rotating twin screw extruder followed by injection moulding. Tribological studies are carried out using a pin‐on‐stainless steel disc configuration under dry sliding conditions. Tribological tests are carried out at sliding speed of 0.5 m s−1 and applied load values of 25, 50,100, 150 N. The friction coefficient and specific wear rate values are obtained and evaluated. The results show that the addition of nanoclay into the PA‐6/PP polymer blend reduced their coefficient of friction and specific wear rate values. The lowest coefficient of friction and specific wear rate values are for nanoclay reinforced PA‐6/PP blend. The highest coefficient of friction and specific wear rate values are for PA‐6 polymer.
Indentation and Calorimetric Measurements on a Peanut‐Based Path
Authors: Mardoc Charlene , Bohin Maxime , Gohin Laetitia , Bion‐Robin Anne , Saiter Jean‐Marc
Published: June 2018

Indentation and calorimetric measurements have been performed on a peanut‐based path in order to check the capability of these techniques to characterize the molecular dynamic and the time dependence properties of such complex multi‐phase material. We show that by means of an ad'hoc choice of experimental parameters associated to the indenter, it is possible to have data with a good reproducibility, and we have demonstrated that it is possible to see the effects of aging on the peanut‐based path which is associated to the existence of a new crystal phase.
Neurovascular stent artifacts in 3D‐TOF and 3D‐PCMRI: Influence of stent design on flow measurement
Authors: Bouillot Pierre , Brina Olivier , Delattre Bénédicte M. A. , Ouared Rafik , Pellaton Alain , Yilmaz Hasan , Machi Paolo , Lovblad Karl‐Olof , Farhat Mohamed , Pereira Vitor Mendes , Vargas Maria Isabel
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The morphological and hemodynamic evaluations of neurovascular diseases treated with stents would benefit from noninvasive imaging techniques such as 3D time‐of‐flight MRI (3D‐TOF) and 3D phase contrast MRI (3D‐PCMRI). For this purpose, a comprehensive evaluation of the stent artifacts and their impact on the flow measurement is critical.

Methods

The artifacts of a representative sample of neurovascular stents were evaluated in vitro with 3D‐TOF and 3D‐PCMRI sequences. The dependency of the artifacts with respect to the orientation was analyzed for each stent design as well as the impact on the flow measurement accuracy. Furthermore, the 3D‐PCMRI data of four patients carrying intracranial aneurysms treated with flow diverter stents were analyzed as illustrative examples.

Results

The stent artifacts were mainly confined to the stent lumen therefore indicating the leading role of shielding effect. The influence of the stent design and its orientation with respect to the transmitting MR coils were highlighted. The artifacts impacted the 3D‐PCMRI velocities mainly in the low magnitude domains, which were discarded from the analysis ensuring reliable near‐stent velocities. The feasibility of in‐stent flow measurements was confirmed in vivo on two patients who showed strong correlation between flow and geometric features. In two other patients, the consistency of out‐of‐stent velocities was verified qualitatively through intra‐aneurysmal streamlines except when susceptibility artifacts occurred.

Conclusion

The present results motivate the conception of low inductance or nonconductive stent design. Furthermore, the feasibility of near‐stent 3D‐PCMRI measurements opens the door to clinical applications like the post‐treatment follow‐up of stenoses or intracranial aneurysms.
Low‐dose azacitidine maintenance therapy after allogeneic stem cell transplantation for high‐risk pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Tamura Akihiro , Ishida Toshiaki , Saito Atsuro , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Yokoi Takehito , Uemura Suguru , Nino Nanako , Fujiwara Takahiro , Tahara Teppei , Nakamura Sayaka , Kozaki Aiko , Kishimoto Kenji , Hasegawa Daiichiro , Kosaka Yoshiyuki
Published: June 2018

The dismal prognosis of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) relapsing after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) requires exploration of novel strategies to prevent relapse. Azacitidine (AZA) maintenance therapy could potentially reduce the recurrence rate post HSCT. Here, we presents the cases of three children with high‐risk AML post HSCT who were treated with low‐dose AZA maintenance therapy, demonstrating the feasibility of this therapy. Currently, all three are in complete remission for 13–41 months despite their high‐risk characteristics. Our encouraging data warrant larger prospective studies to assess the efficacy and safety of low‐dose AZA maintenance therapy post HSCT for pediatric patients with high‐risk AML.
Perspective: green polyurethane synthesis for coating applications
Authors: Llevot Audrey , Meier Michael
Published: June 2018

Polyurethanes exhibit excellent coating properties for many applications. Facing the continuous growth of the polyurethane coating market, in the last few years many scientists have addressed the safety and sustainability of their production. This paper highlights the efforts that have been pursued in this direction from both the academic and industrial perspectives and covers aspects ranging from the substitution of petroleum‐based monomers by biobased equivalents to the development of novel synthetic pathways for the production of polyhydroxyurethanes. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Trends in the market structure of US residential solar PV installation, 2000 to 2016: An evolving industry
Authors: O'Shaughnessy Eric
Published: June 2018

The US residential solar photovoltaic (PV) installation grew from fewer than 100 firms in 2000 to about 3000 firms by 2016. The rapid expansion of this emerging industry prompts questions about the installation industry's market structure, such as how market shares are distributed among installers and how interinstaller competition affects PV deployment. This article leverages a rich dataset to describe trends in the evolution of the US residential PV installation industry. The data show that most residential PV installers are relatively small companies, with about half of installers installing fewer than 5 systems. At the same time, a subset of high‐volume installers have accumulated market share, especially from 2010 to 2016. Causes of this recent market concentration are explored, with an emphasis on the role of the emergence of alternative customer financing options in the United States.
Poole‐Frenkel Conduction Mechanism in ZnO:N Nanobelts
Authors: Carrera‐Gutiérrez Karime , Murillo Eduardo , Rivero Ignacio , Herrera‐Zaldívar Manuel
Published: June 2018

In this paper, the authors demonstrate that the electrical conduction along ZnO:N nanobelts follow a conduction mechanism type Poole‐Frenkel. Electrical measurements obtained using the conductive‐AFM (C‐AFM) technique and between two In/W electrodes of single ZnO:N nanobelts confirm this result. These measurements reveal that the dielectric constant, ϵr, of the ZnO nanobelts, is about 4.3. Cathodoluminescence (CL) spectra acquired from single ZnO:N nanobelts show a strong signal centered at 3.23, with two‐phonon replicas at 3.15 and 3.08 eV, generated by a donor‐acceptor pair (DAP) transition besides a signal centered at 3.29 eV corresponding with a free electron‐acceptor (FA) transition. The authors propose the presence of NO as acceptor centers to explain the origin of these electronic transitions. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements confirm the presence of this substitutional impurity, revealing an N 1s signal corresponding with ZnN bonds. The authors propose that NO acceptor centers participate as defect traps that originate the Poole‐Frenkel conduction mechanism.
Turbidity and dissolved organic matter as significant predictors of spatio‐temporal dynamics of phosphorus in a large river‐floodplain system
Authors: Mayora G. , Schneider B. , Rossi A.
Published: June 2018

Phosphorus (P) inputs are increasing in river‐floodplain systems, but the factors which influence the dynamics of this nutrient are not clear. To assess P dynamics in this kind of river, the main channel of the Middle Paraná River, 3 anabranches, 9 secondary channels, and 20 lakes (7 permanently connected and 13 temporarily connected to the fluvial system) were sampled. Multiple linear regressions were applied to explain spatio‐temporal patterns of P through commonly measured limnological variables. Particulate P increased during the sediment peak (evaluated through turbidity). Soluble reactive P (SRP) was positively associated with dissolved organic matter (DOM, mainly the chromophoric fraction), which increased during high waters in the fluvial system but was highly variable in each kind of aquatic environment. In temporarily connected lakes, vegetated zones dominated by emergent macrophytes displayed the highest SRP and chromophoric DOM concentrations. The flood and sediment peak positively affected P load in the river due to the increase in dissolved and particulate fractions, respectively. In addition, particle‐bound alkaline phosphatase activity was positively associated with SRP concentration and load. These results suggest that the sediment peak incorporates particulate P in the system while the floodplain is a P source during floods through exportation of the dissolved fraction. Dissolved P could be largely exported associated with DOM, which stimulates phosphatase biosynthesis by decreasing P bioavailability. The effect of aquatic macrophytes on P dynamics seems to be influenced by DOM exudation. According to these considerations, DOM should be taken into account to analyse P dynamics in river‐floodplain systems.
Theoretical Investigation of a Novel One‐Dimensional Infinite Monatomic Zinc Wire with Excellent Electronic Properties
Authors: Wang Xin , Yin Xue , Yu Hai‐Long , Liu Ying‐Tao
Published: June 2018

Herein, a novel and economical one‐dimensional infinite monatomic zinc wire (1D‐IMZW) is designed, and its structural and electronic properties are investigated by using density functional theory. It is found that this zinc nanowire can be stabilized by the Zn−Zn bonding interaction between the adjacent Zn atoms. From the band structure and the density of states, it is discovered that the 1D‐IMZW is a typical semiconductor material. Moreover, the 1D‐IMZW exhibits strong absorption across the entire visible range.
A Hydrogen‐Bond‐Assisted CHEF Approach for Colorimetric and Fluorescence Recognition of Picric Acid and Its Solid‐Phase Extraction by an Immobilized Probe
Authors: Ghosh Milan , Ta Sabyasachi , Banerjee Mahuya , Mahiuddin Md , Das Debasis
Published: June 2018

Two rhodamine derivatives derived from rhodamine B, salicyaldehyde (L) and benzaldehyde (R1) having ether spacer have been prepared and characterised by spectroscopic techniques. One of them (L) is very efficient to detect picric acid (PA) by colorimetric and fluorescence method while the other (R1) serves as model compound to unveil sensing mechanism. The probe (L) recognizes PA through hydrogen bond assisted Chelation Enhanced Fluorescence (CHEF) process in a ratiometric manner in aqueous‐methanol (4/1, v/v). The silica immobilised probe is suitable for highly efficient solid phase extractive removal of PA from environmental samples. The experimental results have been substantiated by DFT studies.
Chemical Protein Degradation Approach and its Application to Epigenetic Targets
Authors: Itoh Yukihiro
Published: June 2018

In addition to traditional drugs, such as enzyme inhibitors, receptor agonists/antagonists, and protein‐protein interaction inhibitors as well as genetic technology, such as RNA interference and the CRISPR/Cas9 system, protein knockdown approaches using proteolysis‐targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have attracted much attention. PROTACs, which induce selective degradation of their target protein via the ubiquitin‐proteasome system, are useful for the down‐regulation of various proteins, including disease‐related proteins and epigenetic proteins. Recent reports have shown that chemical protein knockdown is possible not only in cells, but also in vivo and this approach is expected to be used as the therapeutic strategy for several diseases. Thus, this approach may be a significant technique to complement traditional drugs and genetic ablation and will be more widely used for drug discovery and chemical biology studies in the future. In this personal account, a history of chemical protein knockdown is introduced, and its features, recent progress in the epigenetics field, and future outlooks are discussed.
Thermo‐elastic analysis of functionally graded multilayered two‐dimensional decagonal quasicrystal plates
Authors: Li Yang , Yang Lianzhi , Gao Yang
Published: June 2018

Functionally graded materials have been extensively used as thermal barrier materials and composite laminates to resist high temperatures and reduce the thermal stresses. In this paper, an analytical solution is presented to investigate the response of functionally graded multilayered two‐dimensional thermoelastic decagonal quasicrystal plates. The general solution for a functionally graded simply supported plate with the material properties being assumed to be exponentially distributed along the thickness direction is derived by using the pseudo‐Stroh formalism, and the solution for the corresponding multilayered case is obtained in terms of the propagator matrix method. Numerical results show the influences of functionally graded exponential factor, phonon‐phason coupling coefficient and the thickness of functionally graded quasicrystal layer on the phonon, phason and thermal fields of the plates under the steady‐state thermal load. The obtained results should be useful for future analysis and design of functionally graded layered thermoelastic quasicrystal plates.
Probing light top partners with CP violation
Authors: Panico Giuliano , Riembau Marc , Vantalon Thibaud
Published: June 2018

Abstract

We investigate CP-violating effects induced by light top partners in composite Higgs theories. We find that sizable contributions to the dipole moments of the light SM quarks and leptons are generically generated at the two-loop level through Barr-Zee-type diagrams. The present constraints on the electron and neutron electric dipole moments translate into bounds on top partner masses of order few TeV and are competitive with the reach of LHC direct searches. Interestingly, we find that CP-violation effects are sensitive to the same operators that control top partner single production. Near-future improvements in the determination of the electron dipole moment will extend the reach on top partner masses beyond the 5–10TeV range.
Correction to: The Surgical Teams’ Perception of the Effects of a Routine Intraoperative Pause
Authors: Erestam Sofia , Angenete Eva , Derwinger Kristoffer
Published: June 2018

In the original article there is an error in the legend in Fig. 4. Following is corrected Fig. 4.
Liver Regeneration is Preserved After At Least Four Repeated Liver Resections for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yamaguchi Takamune , Kokudo Takashi , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Kaneko Junichi , Arita Junichi , Sakamoto Yoshihiro , Kokudo Norihiro , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Repeated resection is known to prolong survival, with an acceptable morbidity rate, in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. However, little is known about the effect of repeated liver resection on postoperative liver regeneration and liver function. The aim of this study is to determine the impact of repeated liver resections on the postoperative liver regeneration rate and liver function.

Methods

A total of 71 patients, who had undergone more than three liver resections for hepatocellular carcinoma between May 2001 and December 2013 at a tertiary care hospital in Japan, were included in the analysis. Among them, CT‐volumetric data for the first, second, third, and fourth or more resections were available for 36, 49, 53, and 24 patients. We analyzed the regeneration index (RI) defined as the postoperative TLV/preoperative TLV × 100 was calculated after each operation to measure the degree of regeneration. Liver function was evaluated using the indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min (ICG‐R15).

Results

No significant differences in RI were observed among the first, second, and third or more liver resection groups. No significant difference in the ICG R15 value was seen between the first liver resection group and the second or more liver resection group (P = 0.75). However, a significant difference in the RI was observed when the 1 segmentectomy or less liver resection group (median [range] RI 98.1 [72.9–119.9]) was compared with the 2 or more segmentectomy group (median [range] RI 90.5 [62.6–113.6]) (P = 0.005).

Conclusion

The regeneration process is maintained after as many as four repeated resections. Patients with sustained liver function can safely undergo repeated liver resections for recurrences of HCC.
Managing Multiple Sclerosis: Treatment Initiation, Modification, and Sequencing
Authors: Freedman Mark S. , Selchen Daniel , Prat Alexandre , Giacomini Paul S.
Published: June 2018

Recent therapeutic advances in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS) have raised questions about the selection of appropriate patient candidates for various treatments and, if the plan is to move from one treatment to another, the appropriate sequencing of these therapies. The selected approach should provide optimal disease management without limiting future therapeutic options based on safety concerns, and recognize potential future treatments and the possibility of combination therapies. Additional challenges include incorporation of patient needs and preferences into the overall therapeutic approach, in order to ensure optimal outcomes in the short and long term. The objective of this manuscript is to provide an overview of what is currently known regarding the impact of various therapies for MS on future therapeutic choices (sequencing). In this context, we reviewed the available evidence in support of various treatments and, based on the presence of disease activity, suggested a scheme for switching or escalating therapy with the main focus on sequencing of therapeutic approaches.
Musculoskeletal Pain is Associated With New-Onset Psychological Distress in Survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Yabe Yutaka , Hagiwara Yoshihiro , Sekiguchi Takuya , Sugawara Yumi , Tsuchiya Masahiro , Koide Masashi , Itaya Nobuyuki , Yoshida Shinichiro , Sogi Yasuhito , Yano Toshihisa , Tsuji Ichiro , Itoi Eiji
Published: June 2018

Objective

Psychological distress is a common symptom after natural disasters. Although musculoskeletal pain also increases after natural disasters, its relation to psychological distress is not known. This study aimed to examine the association of musculoskeletal pain with new-onset psychological distress among survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Methods

A panel study was conducted with survivors at 2 and 3 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake. New-onset psychological distress was defined as psychological distress absent at 2 years and present at 3 years after the disaster. The number of musculoskeletal pain sites at 2 years after the disaster was divided into 3 categories (0, 1, and ≥2). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for new-onset psychological distress according to the number of musculoskeletal pain sites.

Results

The rate of new-onset psychological distress was 6.7%. Musculoskeletal pain was associated with new-onset psychological distress. Using “0” as a reference, the adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) were 1.65 (0.92-2.95) in “1” and 2.12 (1.24-3.64) in “≥2” (Pfor trend=.02).

Conclusions

Musculoskeletal pain is associated with new-onset psychological distress among survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2019;13:295–300)
Maynooth, the ‘Godless colleges’ and liberal imperial thought in the 1840s
Authors: Biel Justin
Published: June 2018

In 1845, parliament passed an act establishing the three Queen’s Colleges in Ireland – Belfast, Galway and Cork – with the stipulation that ‘religious’ instruction in the colleges would have to be sponsored by voluntary organisations, not the state. Prior to 1845, parliament’s approach to providing spiritual guidance in state-run institutions had been one of ‘parallel patronage’, assuring that wherever there were individuals representing different denominational backgrounds, religious specialists from each denomination would be appointed to work in the institution. For example, the Prisons (Ireland) Act, 1826 required that Catholic, Presbyterian and Anglican chaplains serve their respective portions of the prison population in each gaol that housed any of their co-denominationalists. But in 1845, parliament took an ostensibly different tack, implying that denominations would have to sponsor their young men’s study of theology or any other ‘religious’ subject at university level. However, this article argues that the Irish colleges bill gained assent from the liberal wing of parliamentary opinion precisely because it seemed, to early Victorian liberals, to instantiate the logic of parallel patronage. Using Thomas Wyse, Charles Buller, and T. B. Macaulay as cases in point, this article reveals that the logic behind this vision of state ‘neutrality’ as simultaneous support for each denominational interest was steeped in a working knowledge of colonialism.
Management of advanced hypopharyngeal carcinoma: systematic review of survival following surgical and non-surgical treatments
Authors: Habib A
Published: June 2018

Background:

Advanced hypopharyngeal carcinoma has a dismal prognosis. The optimal treatment for these patients remains under debate. This systematic review aimed to compare survival following surgical and non-surgical treatments.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted of randomised studies, with a descriptive analysis of retrospective observational studies.

Results:

Two randomised trials and 11 observational studies were included in the review. A meta-analysis of randomised trials reported a hazard ratio of 0.89 for overall survival in favour of surgical treatment (p = 0.44). Neither treatment was favoured in terms of overall survival. Observational studies did not report a survival advantage with either treatment. The five-year larynx preservation rates for non-surgically treated patients were between 38 and 58 percent.

Conclusion:

Chemoradiotherapy offers similar survivorship compared to surgery in advanced disease, while also making larynx preservation feasible. It can be used as a treatment in all patients as an alternative to surgery.
A critique of the principle of error correction as a theory of social change
Authors: Lewis Mark C.
Published: June 2018

This article assesses the historical failures and limits of the dominant ‘error correction’ approach within sociolinguistics. The error correction approach supposes that social change can be achieved when knowledge is shared by researchers with the public or figures of institutional authority. This article reviews reflections on sociolinguists’ work toward social change, especially those of Labov, through scholarship in language ideologies and critical race theory. From a language ideological and critical race perspective, error correction is limited in its engagement with marginalizing representations of language because it does not jointly address material conditions and social positions supported by these representations. Exemplifying these limitations, sociolinguistic error-correction efforts that address the evaluation of language practices racialized as Black may have unfortunately distracted from social change agendas that confront material and institutionalized racism directly. To address these limitations, this article highlights existing critical reflexive scholarship that explicitly interrogates disciplinary assumptions. (Critical race theory, error correction, language ideologies, social change, critical reflexivity)*
The (in)significance of facts in sociolinguistic engagement
Authors: Wolfram Walt
Published: June 2018

Critical reflexivity seems expedient in a robust, burgeoning field such as sociolinguistics. Assumptions, principles, and approaches nurture implicit and explicit disciplinary canonization based on our cognitive framing and background experience—and these tenets deserve to be scrutinized judiciously. In fact, I have to admit that some of my own research unwittingly contributed to the construction of a set of ‘sociolinguistic myths’ about the development and status of African American Language (Wolfram 2007) as well as some questionable assumptions about the nature of social engagement (Wolfram 1998; Wolfram, Reaser, & Vaughn 2008). I therefore welcome this critique of theprinciple of error correctionas a theory underlying social change. The study of language in its social context is historically embedded in an ideological struggle that pits ‘popular beliefs’ against ‘expert authority’, thus making it vulnerable to overstatement and overgeneralization—by the sociolinguistic intelligentsia as well as those speaking for popular culture.
Resolving knowledge discrepancies in informing sequences
Authors: Seuren Lucas M. , Huiskes Mike , Koole Tom
Published: June 2018

This article investigates a specific practice that recipients in Dutch talk-in-interaction use when responding to turns that have as one of their main jobs to inform. By responding to an informing turn with an oh-prefaced nonrepeating response that has yes/no-type interrogative word order, recipients treat that turn as counter to expectation and request both confirmation of the inference formulated in his/her response, as well as reconciliatory information for the two discrepant states of affairs. This practice is compared to similar cases where the nonrepeating response is not oh-prefaced to show that such turns implement different actions. Data are in Dutch with English translations. (Counterexpectations, change-of-state, yes/no-type interrogatives, action formation, practions)*
Assessment of the Dietary Intakes of 6- and 12-Month-Old Infants in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzaheb Riyadh A. , Alatawi Norah , Daoud Khawla A. , Altawil Naema
Published: June 2018

Abstract.Background: Establishing understanding of infants’ dietary intakes can support interventions to improve their diets and overall health. Because information on the dietary intakes of infants aged ≤12 months in Saudi Arabia is scarce, this study examined the diets of infants aged 6 and 12 months in Saudi Arabia and determined their main dietary sources of total energy and macronutrients. Methods: A crosssectional dietary survey employing a single 24-hour recall was performed between May and December 2015 with a sample of mothers of 278 healthy 6-month-old and 259 12-month-old infants. An analysis of the dietary intake data determined the nutrient intake adequacy and the percentage contributions of foods to energy and macronutrient intakes. Results: The respective mean daily energy intakes of the 6-month-old and 12-month-old infants in the study were 703 kcal and 929 kcal. Both age groups recorded adequate nutrient intakes, with the exception that the 6-month-olds’ mean vitamin D intake fell below the recommended Adequate Intake (AI), and the 12-month-olds’ intakes of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin D were also below the AI, along with their iron intake which fell short of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Conclusion: The data generated here will assist health professionals in planning interventions which aim to improve infants’ diets and to offer guidance to parents on the appropriate selection of food for their infants.
Treating great and small saphenous vein insufficiency with histoacryl in patients with symptomatic varicose veins and increased risk of surgery
Authors: Novotný Karel , Roček Míla , Pádr Radek , Pavlík Radim , Polovinčák Michal , Adla Theodor , Zimolová Petra , Choi-Širůčková Jana , Weis Martin , Jirát Simon , Rohn Vilém
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Background: Treating great and small saphenous vein trunk insufficiency with cyanoacrylate glue is the least taxing treatment method of all available techniques. Due to long-term unavailability of commercial kits with n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (histoacryl) in the Czech Republic, we used a modified technique. Patients and methods: Fifty-six limbs in 49 patients suffering from great saphenous vein or small saphenous vein insufficiency in combination with symptomatic chronic venous insufficiency and complicating comorbidities were treated with a modified endovascular cyanoacrylate glue application technique. Results: The immediate success rate of the treatment was 98 %. In follow-up intervals of six weeks, six months, one year, and two years, the anatomical success rates of embolization (recanalization of no more than 5 cm of the junction) were 98, 96, 94, and 94 %, respectively. At identical intervals the venous insufficiency was scored according to the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire and the American Venous Clinical Severity Score. In both cases, improvement was demonstrated over the two-year follow-up, with a 0.5 % significance level. Specific clinical signs of venous insufficiency were also evaluated, such as pain, oedema, clearance of varicose veins, and healing of venous ulceration. One severe complication – a pulmonary embolism – was reported, without consequences. Conclusions: We demonstrated that treating insufficient saphenous veins with modified histoacryl application brought a relief from symptoms of venous insufficiency and that the efficiency of this technique is comparable to commonly used methods.