bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Panel Gene Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer on Patients
Authors: Lumish Heidi S. , Steinfeld Hallie , Koval Carrie , Russo Donna , Levinson Elana , Wynn Julia , Duong James , Chung Wendy K.
Published: March 2017

Recent advances in next generation sequencing have enabled panel gene testing, or simultaneous testing for mutations in multiple genes for a clinical condition. With more extensive and widespread genetic testing, there will be increased detection of genes with moderate penetrance without established clinical guidelines and of variants of uncertain significance (VUS), or genetic variants unknown to either be disease‐causing or benign. This study surveyed 232 patients who underwent genetic counseling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer to examine the impact of panel gene testing on psychological outcomes, patient understanding, and utilization of genetic information. The survey used standardized instruments including the Impact of Event Scale (IES), Multidimensional Impact of Cancer Risk Assessment (MICRA), Satisfaction with Decision Instrument (SWD), Ambiguity Tolerance Scale (AT‐20), genetics knowledge, and utilization of genetic test results. Study results suggested that unaffected individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer who received positive results were most significantly impacted by intrusive thoughts, avoidance, and distress. However, scores were also modestly elevated among unaffected patients with a family history of breast and ovarian cancer who received VUS, highlighting the impact of ambiguous results that are frequent among patients undergoing genetic testing with large panels of genes. Potential risk factors for increased genetic testing‐specific distress in this study included younger age, black or African American race, Hispanic origin, lower education level, and lower genetic knowledge and highlight the need for developing strategies to provide effective counseling and education to these communities, particularly when genetic testing utilizes gene panels that more commonly return VUS. More detailed pre‐test education and counseling may help patients appreciate the probability of various types of test results and how results would be used clinically, and allow them to make more informed decisions about the type of genetic testing to select.
Adenosine‐guided radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation: A meta‐analysis of randomized control trials
Authors: Letsas Konstantinos P. , Georgopoulos Stamatis , Efremidis Michael , Liu Tong , Bazoukis George , Vlachos Konstantinos , Karamichalakis Nikolaos , Lioni Louiza , Sideris Antonios , Ehrlich Joachim R.
Published: March 2017

Background

The prognostic significance of adenosine‐mediated dormant pulmonary vein conduction, and whether such dormant conduction should be eliminated, remains controversial. We sought to perform a meta‐analysis of data from eligible studies to delineate the prognostic impact of adenosine‐guided radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed using online databases in order to identify relevant studies from January 2004 to September 2016. Ten studies [six observational and four randomized control trials (RCTs)] were included in the analysis.

Results

Five studies (two observational and three RCTs) compared the efficacy of adenosine‐mediated elimination of dormant conduction versus no adenosine test. Overall, the adenosine‐guided ablation strategy displayed better long‐term outcomes as compared with no adenosine testing (RR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01–1.14, p=0.02; Heterogeneity: I2=42%, p: 0.14). The meta‐analysis of only RCTs failed to show any differences between the two strategies (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.96–1.11, p=0.37; Heterogeneity: I2 0%, p: 0.41). Eight studies (five observational and three RCTs) addressed the efficacy of adenosine‐induced dormant conduction and additional ablation versus no dormant conduction during adenosine challenge. Overall, a trend towards a better outcome in those without dormant conduction during drug challenge was noted (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.77–1.03, p=0.11; Heterogeneity: I2 65% p: 0.006). The pooled analysis of RCTs failed to show any differences between the two arms (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.62–1.30, p= 0.57; Heterogeneity: I2 88%, p: 0.0002).

Conclusions

Adenosine‐guided radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation does not provide additional benefit in terms of freedom of arrhythmia recurrence.
Admissible Sets and Structures
Authors: Barwise Jon
Published: March 2017

Since their inception, the Perspectives in Logic and Lecture Notes in Logic series have published seminal works by leading logicians. Many of the original books in the series have been unavailable for years, but they are now in print once again. Admissible set theory is a major source of interaction between model theory, recursion theory and set theory, and plays an important role in definability theory. In this volume, the seventh publication in the Perspectives in Logic series, Jon Barwise presents the basic facts about admissible sets and admissible ordinals in a way that makes them accessible to logic students and specialists alike. It fills the artificial gap between model theory and recursion theory and covers everything the logician should know about admissible sets.
Model Theory of Stochastic Processes
Authors: Fajardo Sergio , Keisler H. Jerome
Published: March 2017

Since their inception, the Perspectives in Logic and Lecture Notes in Logic series have published seminal works by leading logicians. Many of the original books in the series have been unavailable for years, but they are now in print once again. In this volume, the fourteenth publication in the Lecture Notes in Logic series, Fajardo and Keisler present new research combining probability theory and mathematical logic. It is a general study of stochastic processes using ideas from model theory, a key central theme being the question, 'When are two stochastic processes alike?' The authors assume some background in nonstandard analysis, but prior knowledge of model theory and advanced logic is not necessary. This volume will appeal to mathematicians willing to explore new developments with an open mind.
Poetry, Modernism, and an Imperfect World
Authors: Pryor Sean
Published: March 2017

Diverse modernist poems, far from advertising a capacity to prefigure utopia or save society, understand themselves to be complicit in the unhappiness and injustice of an imperfect or fallen world. Combining analysis of technical devices and aesthetic values with broader accounts of contemporary critical debates, social contexts, and political history, this book offers a formalist argument about how these poems understand themselves and their situation, and a historicist argument about the meanings of their forms. The poetry of the canonical modernists T. S. Eliot, Mina Loy, and Wallace Stevens is placed alongside the poetry of Ford Madox Ford, better known for his novels and his criticism, and the poetry of Joseph Macleod, whose work has been largely forgotten. Focusing on the years from 1914 to 1930, the book offers a new account of a crucial moment in the history of British and American modernism.
Deformation Analysis of the Tapered Inflatable Beam
Authors: Chen Z. , Zhao H. T. , Chen J. , Zhang Z. T. , Duan D. P.
Published: March 2017

In the theory research and engineering practice, more basic inflatable models are essential for the mechanical property analysis of inflatable structures. Firstly, this paper presents a model of the tapered inflatable cantilever beam based on Timoshenko's theory and analyzes its deformation under a concentrated force. Moreover, the following forces resulting from internal pressure and taper ratio are introduced into the equilibrium equations of the deformed configuration. Thus, the model is optimized compared to the existing one for a straight beam. To verify the effectiveness and the superiority of the established model, the theoretical method based on the model and FEM method are compared by adopting an example about the tapered beams. Finally, the theoretical method is applied in analyzing the influence of geometry and estimating a valid range of taper ratio. By the criterion of the same amount material area, the optimum taper ratio is obtained.
Erdős–Ko–Rado for Random Hypergraphs: Asymptotics and Stability
Authors: GAUY MARCELO M. , HÀN HIÊP , OLIVEIRA IGOR C.
Published: March 2017

We investigate the asymptotic version of the Erdős–Ko–Rado theorem for the random k-uniform hypergraph $\mathcal{H}$k(n, p). For 2⩽k(n) ⩽ n/2, let $N=\binom{n}k$ and $D=\binom{n-k}k$. We show that with probability tending to 1 as n → ∞, the largest intersecting subhypergraph of $\mathcal{H}$ has size
$$(1+o(1))p\ffrac kn N$$
for any
$$p\gg \ffrac nk\ln^2\biggl(\ffrac nk\biggr)D^{-1}.$$
This lower bound on p is asymptotically best possible for k = Θ(n). For this range of k and p, we are able to show stability as well.

A different behaviour occurs when k = o(n). In this case, the lower bound on p is almost optimal. Further, for the small interval D−1 ≪ p ⩽ (n/k)1−ϵD−1, the largest intersecting subhypergraph of $\mathcal{H}$k(n, p) has size Θ(ln(pD)ND−1), provided that $k \gg \sqrt{n \ln n}$.

Together with previous work of Balogh, Bohman and Mubayi, these results settle the asymptotic size of the largest intersecting family in $\mathcal{H}$k, for essentially all values of p and k.
The population genetic structure of Corythucha ciliata (Say) (Hemiptera: Tingidae) provides insights into its distribution and invasiveness
Authors: Yang Wen-Yan , Tang Xiao-Tian , Ju Rui-Ting , Zhang Yong , Du Yu-Zhou
Published: March 2017

Corythucha ciliata(Say), an invasive pest originating from North America, causes severe damage on sycamore trees. However, little is known about the population genetics and evolutionary forces underlying the invasiveness of this important pest. In the present study, we use three mitochondrial genes (COI,ND1andND5) and nine microsatellite markers to investigate the population genetics ofC. ciliataand retrace its spread through China. The results suggest a low level of genetic diversity in Chinese and European populations ofC. ciliata. Our results indicate that populations ofC. ciliatahave obvious genetic structure, and genetic differentiation is not caused by geographic isolation. In median-joining networks, we observed a higher frequency of shared haplotypes in groups 1 and 3. Based on gene flow and approximate Bayesian computation analyses, we discovered thatC. ciliatafirst invaded the east coast of China and subsequently moved inland. Demographic analysis suggested that populations ofC. ciliatain China may have undergone a recent bottleneck effect. Finally, our results suggest that population structure, high gene flow and environmental conditions have favored the broad invasiveness of this important pest.
Role of Cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A in Hyperoxic Lung Injury: Analysis of the Transcriptome and Proteome
Authors: Lingappan Krithika , Maity Suman , Jiang Weiwu , Wang Lihua , Couroucli Xanthi , Veith Alex , Zhou Guodong , Coarfa Cristian , Moorthy Bhagavatula
Published: March 2017

Hyperoxia contributes to lung injury in experimental animals and diseases such as acute respiratory distress syndrome in humans. Cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A enzymes are protective against hyperoxic lung injury (HLI). The molecular pathways and differences in gene expression that modulate these protective effects remain largely unknown. Our objective was to characterize genotype specific differences in the transcriptome and proteome of acute hyperoxic lung injury using the omics platforms: microarray and Reverse Phase Proteomic Array. Wild type (WT), Cyp1a1−/− and Cyp1a2−/− (8–10 wk, C57BL/6J background) mice were exposed to hyperoxia (FiO2 > 0.95) for 48 hours. Comparison of transcriptome changes in hyperoxia-exposed animals (WT versus knock-out) identified 171 genes unique to Cyp1a1−/− and 119 unique to Cyp1a2−/− mice. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis revealed pathways including apoptosis, DNA repair and early estrogen response that were differentially regulated between WT, Cyp1a1−/− and Cyp1a2−/− mice. Candidate genes from these pathways were validated at the mRNA and protein level. Quantification of oxidative DNA adducts with 32P-postlabeling also revealed genotype specific differences. These findings provide novel insights into mechanisms behind the differences in susceptibility of Cyp1a1−/− and Cyp1a2−/− mice to HLI and suggest novel pathways that need to be investigated as possible therapeutic targets for acute lung injury.
A longitudinal study of the effect of short-term meditation training on functional network organization of the aging brain
Authors: Cotier Francesca A. , Zhang Ruibin , Lee Tatia M. C.
Published: March 2017

The beneficial effects of meditation on preserving age-related changes in cognitive functioning are well established. Yet, the neural underpinnings of these positive effects have not been fully unveiled. This study employed a prospective longitudinal design, and graph-based analysis, to study how an eight-week meditation training vs. relaxation training shaped network configuration at global, intermediate, and local levels using graph theory in the elderly. At the intermediate level, meditation training lead to decreased intra-connectivity in the default mode network (DMN), salience network (SAN) and somatomotor network (SMN) modules post training. Also, there was decreased connectivity strength between the DMN and other modules. At a local level, meditation training lowered nodal strength in the left posterior cingulate gryus, bilateral paracentral lobule, and middle cingulate gyrus. According to previous literature, the direction of these changes is consistent with a movement towards a more self-detached viewpoint, as well as more efficient processing. Furthermore, our findings highlight the importance of considering brain network changes across organizational levels, as well as the pace at which these changes may occur. Overall, this study provides further support for short-term meditation as a potentially beneficial method of mental training for the elderly that warrants further investigation.
A Bayesian Perspective on Accumulation in the Magnitude System
Authors: Martin Benoît , Wiener Martin , van Wassenhove Virginie
Published: March 2017

Several theoretical and empirical work posit the existence of a common magnitude system in the brain. Such a proposal implies that manipulating stimuli in one magnitude dimension (e.g. duration in time) should interfere with the subjective estimation of another magnitude dimension (e.g. size in space). Here, we asked whether a generalized Bayesian magnitude estimation system would sample sensory evidence using a common, amodal prior. Two psychophysical experiments separately tested participants on their perception of duration, surface, and numerosity when the non-target magnitude dimensions and the rate of sensory evidence accumulation were manipulated. First, we found that duration estimation was resilient to changes in surface and numerosity, whereas lengthening (shortening) the duration yielded under- (over-) estimations of surface and numerosity. Second, the perception of surface and numerosity were affected by changes in the rate of sensory evidence accumulation, whereas duration was not. Our results suggest that a generalized magnitude system based on Bayesian computations would minimally necessitate multiple priors.
A safety study of high concentration and high frequency intravitreal injection of conbercept in rabbits
Authors: Wang Jiaming , Lei Chunyan , Tao Lifei , Wu Quan , Ke Xiao , Qiu Yiguo , Lei Bo
Published: March 2017

The novel anti-VEGF drug conbercept has been used in the treatment of several retinal neovascular diseases. Owning to the alteration of the structure, the newest drug is capable of combining more molecular targets and present higher affinity to the angiogenesis promoting factors. However, it is unknown whether it will cause any unwanted effects like other anti-VEGF agents. We studied the short-term safety of high concentration and high frequency intravitreal injection of conbercept in rabbits. Intraocular pressure, fundus-photography, ERGs were applied. Retinal morphology, the amount of apoptotic cells and protein levels of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in the aqueous humor were determined. Retinal proteomics was detected using tandem mass tags (TMTs) quantitative mass spectrometry. The difference of IOP, ERGs, protein levels of inflammatory factors among rabbits received conbercept and PBS was not significant (P > 0.05). Fundus photographs and retinal morphology of animals in the conbercept-injected groups mimic those observed in the PBS-injected groups. No TUNEL-positive cell was seen in the retinal ganglion cell layer in the conbercept-injected groups. Proteomics did not show significant changes of inflammation or apoptosis associated proteins in the conbercept-injected eyes. We conclude that intravitreal injection of high concentration and high frequency conbercept is well tolerated at least in a short-term in rabbits.
Chemically different non-thermal plasmas target distinct cell death pathways
Authors: Lunov Oleg , Zablotskii Vitalii , Churpita Olexander , Lunova Mariia , Jirsa Milan , Dejneka Alexandr , Kubinová Šárka
Published: March 2017

A rigorous biochemical analysis of interactions between non-thermal plasmas (NTPs) and living cells has become an important research topic, due to recent developments in biomedical applications of non-thermal plasmas. Here, we decouple distinct cell death pathways targeted by chemically different NTPs. We show that helium NTP cells treatment, results in necrosome formation and necroptosis execution, whereas air NTP leads to mTOR activation and autophagy inhibition, that induces mTOR-related necrosis. On the contrary, ozone (abundant component of air NTP) treatment alone, exhibited the highest levels of reactive oxygen species production leading to CypD-related necrosis via the mitochondrial permeability transition. Our findings offer a novel insight into plasma-induced cellular responses, and reveal distinct cell death pathways triggered by NTPs.
KATP Channels Mediate Differential Metabolic Responses to Glucose Shortage of the Dorsomedial and Ventrolateral Oscillators in the Central Clock
Authors: Yang Jyh-Jeen , Cheng Ruo-Ciao , Cheng Pi-Cheng , Wang Yi-Chi , Huang Rong-Chi
Published: March 2017

The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) central clock comprises two coupled oscillators, with light entraining the retinorecipient vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)-positive ventrolateral oscillator, which then entrains the arginine vasopressin (AVP)-positive dorsomedial oscillator. While glucose availability is known to alter photic entrainment, it is unclear how the SCN neurones respond to metabolic regulation and whether the two oscillators respond differently. Here we show that the ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel mediates differential responses to glucose shortage of the two oscillators. RT-PCR and electrophysiological results suggested the presence of Kir6.2/SUR1 KATP channels in the SCN neurones. Immunostaining revealed preferential distribution of Kir6.2 in the dorsomedial subregion and selective colocalization with AVP. Whole cell recordings with ATP-free pipette solution indicated larger tolbutamide-induced depolarisation and tolbutamide-sensitive conductance in dorsal SCN (dSCN) than ventral SCN (vSCN) neurones. Tolbutamide-sensitive conductance was low under perforated patch conditions but markedly enhanced by cyanide inhibition of mitochondrial respiration. Glucoprivation produced a larger steady-state inhibition in dSCN than vSCN neurones, and importantly hypoglycemia via opening KATP channels selectively inhibited the KATP-expressing neurones. Our results suggest that the AVP-SCN oscillator may act as a glucose sensor to respond to glucose shortage while sparing the VIP-SCN oscillator to remain in synch with external light-dark cycle.
Revealing the structure and distribution changes of Eucalyptus lignin during the hydrothermal and alkaline pretreatments
Authors: Wang Chenzhou , Li Hanyin , Li Mingfei , Bian Jing , Sun Runcang
Published: March 2017

An integrated pretreatment process based on hydrothermal pretreatment (HTP) followed by alkaline pretreatment has been applied to treat Eucalyptus. The chemical composition and structure changes of lignin during the pretreatment were comprehensively characterized. The surface morphology of the cell walls and lignin distribution of the pretreated Eucalyptus were detected by scanning electron and confocal Raman microscopies. It was found that the chemical bonds between lignin and hemicelluloses were cleaved during the pretreatment. The results also indicated that the contents of β-O-4′, β-β′, and β-5′ linkages were decreased with the increase of hydrothermal pretreatment temperature and the cleavage of β-O-4′ linkages in lignin was accompanied with repolymerization reactions. 31P NMR analysis showed that the content of aliphatic OH was reduced as the temperature increased and the total phenolic OH was elevated and then declined with the increase of temperature. Raman spectra analysis revealed that the dissolution rate of lignin in the secondary wall regions was faster than that in cell corner middle lamella regions during the pretreatment. These results will enhance the understanding of the cell wall deconstruction during the pretreatment and the mechanism of the integrated pretreatment process acting on Eucalyptus.
Imputation-Based Whole-Genome Sequence Association Study Rediscovered the Missing QTL for Lumbar Number in Sutai Pigs
Authors: Yan Guorong , Qiao Ruimin , Zhang Feng , Xin Wenshui , Xiao Shijun , Huang Tao , Zhang Zhiyan , Huang Lusheng
Published: March 2017

Resequencing a number of individuals of various breeds as reference population and imputing the whole-genome sequences of individuals that were genotyped with medium-density chips to perform an association study is a very efficient strategy. Previously, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of lumbar number using 60K SNPs from the porcine Illumina chips in 418 Sutai pigs and did not detect any significant signals. Therefore, we imputed the whole-genome sequences of 418 Sutai individuals from 403 deeply resequenced reference individuals and performed association tests. We identified a quantitative trait locus (QTL) for lumbar number in SSC1 with a P value of 9.01E-18 that was close to the potential causative gene of NR6A1. The result of conditioning on the top SNP association test indicated that only one QTL was responsible for this trait in SSC1. The linkage disequilibrium (LD) drop test result for the condition of the reported potential causative mutation (c.575T > C missense mutation of NR6A1) indicated that this mutation was probably not the underlying mutation that affected lumbar number in our study. As the first trial of imputed whole-genome sequence GWAS in swine, this approach can be also powerful to investigate complex traits in pig like in human and cattle.
Inhibiting breast cancer by targeting the thromboxane A2 pathway
Authors: Li Haitao , Lee Mee-Hyun , Liu Kangdong , Wang Ting , Song Mengqiu , Han Yaping , Yao Ke , Xie Hua , Zhu Feng , Grossmann Michael , Cleary Margot P. , Chen Wei , Bode Ann M. , Dong Zigang
Published: March 2017

Targeting the estrogen receptor as a strategy has been the gold standard for breast cancer chemoprevention or breast cancer recurrence, but its benefit is limited to estrogen receptor-positive tumors. Cyclooxygenases have been implicated in mammary tumorigenesis. We sought to identify the key prostaglandin responsible for the pro-neoplastic effect of cyclooxygenases and develop prostaglandin-targeted strategies for breast cancer chemoprevention or therapy. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that either thromboxane A2 synthase 1 or the thromboxane A2 receptor is highly expressed in human breast tumors as well as premalignant lesions, but not in normal mammary tissues. Clinically, the thromboxane A2 pathway might be associated with HER2-positive and axillary lymph node metastasis in human breast cancer. We found that the thromboxane A2 pathway was required for breast cancer cell growth, anchorage-independent growth and invasion capabilities. Importantly, we discovered that switching off thromboxane A2 biosynthesis effectively suppressed either MMTV-HER2-driven mammary tumorigenesis or breast cancer metastasis in preclinical animal models. Taken together, this study established a critical pathophysiological role of the thromboxane A2 pathway in breast cancer, and provided a rationale for introducing a strategy targeting thromboxane A2 for breast cancer chemoprevention and therapy.
Tuning the electro-chemical properties by selectively substituting transition metals on carbon in Ni/Co oxide–carbon composite electrodes for supercapacitor devices
Authors: Kumar Niraj , Sahoo P. K. , Panda H. S.
Published: March 2017

Carbon embedded Ni/Co oxide composite electrodes with different carbon percentages were fabricated through SILAR method, which tuned Ni substitution to give improved electro-chemical properties for low-cost supercapacitor devices.
Predicting human intestinal absorption with modified random forest approach: a comprehensive evaluation of molecular representation, unbalanced data, and applicability domain issues
Authors: Wang Ning-Ning , Huang Chen , Dong Jie , Yao Zhi-Jiang , Zhu Min-Feng , Deng Zhen-Ke , Lv Ben , Lu Ai-Ping , Chen Alex F. , Cao Dong-Sheng
Published: March 2017

A relatively larger dataset consisting of 970 compounds was collected. Classification RF models were established based on different training sets and different descriptors. model validation and evaluation.
ATF2 partly mediated the expressions of proliferative factors and inhibited pro-inflammatory factors’ secretion in arsenite-treated human uroepithelial cells
Authors: Liu Shengnan , Wang Fei , Liu Jieyu , Jin Peiyu , Wang Xiaoyan , Yang Li , Xi Shuhua
Published: March 2017

Activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) was involved in the expressions of proliferative factors in arsenite treated human urinary bladder epithelial cell line (SV-HUC-1 cells).
A room-temperature phosphorescent polymer film containing a molecular web based on one-dimensional chiral stacking of a simple luminophore
Authors: Yoshida Kyohei , Kuwahara Yutaka , Miyamoto Koji , Nakashima Seiya , Jintoku Hirokuni , Takafuji Makoto , Ihara Hirotaka
Published: March 2017

We propose a new approach for a totally organic, room-temperature phosphorescent system with a lifetime on the order of milliseconds.
Difluorocarbene transfer from a cobalt complex to an electron-deficient alkene
Authors: Goswami Monalisa , de Bruin Bas , Dzik Wojciech I.
Published: March 2017

A Co(ii) porphyrin complex catalyses difluorocarbene transfer to an acrylate using TMSCF3 as the source of CF2.
The effects of Lycium barbarum L. (L. barbarum) on cardiometabolic risk factors: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Guo Xiao-fei , Li Zi-hao , Cai Huizhen , Li Duo
Published: March 2017

The effects of Lycium barbarum L. (L. barbarum) on the cardiometabolic risk factors from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown inconsistent results.
Functional food supplements to ameliorate the secondary complications in high fructose fed diabetic rats
Authors: Gite S. S. , Yadav S. A. , Nilegaonkar S. S. , Agte V. V.
Published: March 2017

Poly-herbal functional food supplements inhibited high fructose induced glycation in diabetic rats and showed promise for effective management of secondary complications of diabetes such as improved lipid profile, kidney function and reduction of oxidative stress.
Decolorization of Color Index Acid Orange 20 buffer solution using horseradish peroxidase immobilized on modified PAN-beads
Authors: Yincan Zhu , Yan Liu , Xueyong Guo , Qiao Wu , Xiaoping Xu
Published: March 2017

In the present work, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) is utilized to be immobilized onto polyacrylonitrile based beads (PAN-beads) for decolorization of Color Index (C. I.) Acid Orange 20 (AO20) in aqueous solution.
Nitrogen doping in the carbon matrix for Li-ion hybrid supercapacitors: state of the art, challenges and future prospective
Authors: Bokhari S. W. , Siddique A. H. , Pan H. , Li Y. , Imtiaz M. , Chen Z. , Zhu S. M. , Zhang D.
Published: March 2017

Li ion hybrid supercapacitors are summarized with an emphasis on the use of nitrogen doped graphene and activated carbons.
Combustion synthesis as a low temperature route to Li4Ti5O12 based powders for lithium ion battery anodes
Authors: De Sloovere Dries , Marchal Wouter , Ulu Fulya , Vranken Thomas , Verheijen Maarten , Van Bael Marlies K. , Hardy An
Published: March 2017

An LTO based anode material was synthesized at a significantly lower temperature and shorter processing time than previously reported.
Drawing in poly(ε-caprolactone) fibers: tuning mechanics, fiber dimensions and surface-modification density
Authors: Kim Si-Eun , Jordan Alex M. , Korley LaShanda T. J. , Pokorski Jonathan K.
Published: March 2017

This work describes the complex interplay between mechanical manipulation of coextruded fibers and the resulting photochemical yield of surface modification.
A colloidally stable water dispersion of Ni nanowires as an efficient T2-MRI contrast agent
Authors: Bañobre-López Manuel , Bran Cristina , Rodríguez-Abreu Carlos , Gallo Juan , Vázquez Manuel , Rivas José
Published: March 2017

A colloidally stable dispersion of anisotropic Ni nanowires in water has been achieved showing good performance as a T2-contrast agent in MRI.
Neural network‐based output‐feedback control for stochastic high‐order non‐linear time‐delay systems with application to robot system
Authors: Min Huifang , Lu Junwei , Xu Shengyuan , Duan Na , Chen Weimin
Published: March 2017

This study is concerned with the output‐feedback control problem for a class of stochastic high‐order non‐linear systems with time‐varying delays. A distinctive feature of the control scheme is that the restrictions on delay‐dependent drift and diffusion terms are greatly relaxed by using radial basis function neural network (NN) approximation approach. Furthermore, with the approach, the specific knowledge of NN nodes and weights is not required. Under some weaker conditions, by combining dynamic surface control technique with proper Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, an adaptive NN output‐feedback controller is designed constructively such that the closed‐loop system is 4‐moment (or mean square) semi‐globally uniformly ultimately bounded. Finally, the control scheme is applied to both a practical stochastic robot system and a numerical system to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Synergy of the future: high voltage insulated power cables and railway‐highway structures
Authors: Benato Roberto , Sessa Sebastian Dambone , Guizzo Luca , Rebolini Massimo
Published: March 2017

The rationalisation of the territorial resources leads to consider carefully the possibilities of using motorway and railway infrastructures (existing or planned ones) for cable line installation within them. The full compatibility of such synergy ‘transport – electrical power transmission’ involves different branches of engineering. The study provides an overview of the research undertaken for a fully reliable use of this combination. The manuscript aims at highlighting a procedural approach that should be followed in order to analyse all the key elements involved in the safe operation of power transmission lines hosted in transport infrastructures. First, the geometrical compatibility between different types of power transmission technologies, (i.e. gas insulated lines and high‐voltage direct/alternating current insulated cable lines), and transport infrastructures (i.e. motorway galleries, railway galleries and railway prospection tunnels) is considered. Subsequently, the behaviour and magnitude of the magnetic field generated by the different power transmission technologies inside the transport infrastructures are presented. Moreover, the study analyses the effects of a phase‐to‐screen short circuit that could occur inside the hosting facility. Finally, an analysis of the reliability of the synergy between power transmission systems and transport infrastructures is discussed.
Hexafluorosilicic Acid as a Novel Reagent for the Desilylation of Silylacetylenes: Application in Sequential Sonogashira Coupling and Click Reaction
Authors: Sinai Ádám , Mészáros Ádám , Balogh Ádám , Zwillinger Márton , Novák Zoltán
Published: March 2017

Hexafluorosilicic acid was utilized as a novel, cheap, readily available, and environmentally benign alternative reagent for the desilylation of 1-trimethylsilylacetylenes. The applicability of the aqueous solution of the hexafluorosilicic acid was demonstrated in the sequential coupling of aryl halides and ethynyltrimethylsilane to afford internal acetylenes, benzofurans, and triazoles in one-pot Sonogashira–Sonogashira­ and Sonogashira–CuAAC reactions.
Severe Dumping Syndrome in a 6-year-old Girl with Congenital Microgastria Treated by Hunt-Lawrence Pouch
Authors: Filisetti Claudia , Maestri Luciano , Meroni Milena , Marinoni Federica , Riccipetitoni Giovanna
Published: March 2017

Microgastria is a rare congenital condition often associated with other anomalies. In the present report we describe the case of a 6-year-old girl with isolated CM who presented with dumping syndrome successfully treated by a Hunt-Lawrence pouch.
Next-Generation Sequencing: Quantensprung für Forschung und Diagnostik in der Ophthalmologie
Authors: Bolz H.
Published: March 2017

Viele Augenerkrankungen können erblich bedingt sein und weisen oft eine ausgeprägte genetische Heterogenität auf, d. h. sie können durch Mutationen in vielen verschiedenen Genen verursacht werden. Dies trifft besonders auf die Netzhautdystrophien zu: Mehr als 200 Gene sind für die isolierten Formen (z. B. Lebersche kongenitale Amaurose, Retinitis pigmentosa, Zapfen-Stäbchen-Dystrophie, kongenitale stationäre Nachtblindheit) und für Syndrome, bei denen zusätzlich Dysfunktionen oder Fehlbildungen anderer Organsysteme vorliegen, bekannt. Die gezielte Auswahl einzelner Gene für die Diagnostik war bislang schwierig und ihre Analyse mit der DNA-Sequenzierung nach der Sanger-Methode extrem aufwendig: Das Krankheitsbild lässt selten einen Rückschluss auf das betroffene Gen zu, und die Häufigkeiten von Mutationen der einzelnen Gene etwa bei der LCA waren nur unzureichend bekannt. Umfassende molekulargenetisch-diagnostische Abklärungen waren daher in den meisten Fällen nicht möglich. Die unter dem Sammelbegriff Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) zusammengefassten Verfahren der Hochdurchsatzsequenzierung haben innerhalb weniger Jahre zunächst die humangenetische Forschung und dann die molekulargenetische Diagnostik revolutioniert. Dies hat weitreichende Implikationen für die individuelle Betreuung und Beratung von Patienten mit erblichen Augenerkrankungen und deren Familien.
A complex network representation of wind flows
Authors: Gelbrecht Maximilian , Boers Niklas , Kurths Jürgen
Published: March 2017

Climate networks have proven to be a valuable method to investigate spatial connectivity patterns of the climate system. However, so far such networks have mostly been applied to scalar observables. In this study, we propose a new method for constructing networks from atmospheric wind fields on two-dimensional isobaric surfaces. By connecting nodes along a spatial environment based on the local wind flow, we derive a network representation of the low-level circulation that captures its most important characteristics. In our approach, network links are placed according to a suitable statistical null model that takes into account the direction and magnitude of the flow. We compare a simulation-based (numerically costly) and a semi-analytical (numerically cheaper) approach to determine the statistical significance of possible connections, and find that both methods yield qualitatively similar results. As an application, we choose the regional climate system of South America and focus on the monsoon season in austral summer. Monsoon systems are generally characterized by substantial changes in the large-scale wind directions, and therefore provide ideal applications for the proposed wind networks. Based on these networks, we are able to reveal the key features of the low-level circulation of the South American Monsoon System, including the South American Low-Level Jet. Networks of the dry and the wet season are compared with each other and their differences are consistent with the literature on South American climate.
Chimera states and the interplay between initial conditions and non-local coupling
Authors: Kalle Peter , Sawicki Jakub , Zakharova Anna , Schöll Eckehard
Published: March 2017

Chimera states are complex spatio-temporal patterns that consist of coexisting domains of coherent and incoherent dynamics. We study chimera states in a network of non-locally coupled Stuart-Landau oscillators. We investigate the impact of initial conditions in combination with non-local coupling. Based on an analytical argument, we show how the coupling phase and the coupling strength are linked to the occurrence of chimera states, flipped profiles of the mean phase velocity, and the transition from a phase- to an amplitude-mediated chimera state.
Levitation of heavy particles against gravity in asymptotically downward flows
Authors: Angilella Jean-Régis , Case Daniel J. , Motter Adilson E.
Published: March 2017

In the fluid transport of particles, it is generally expected that heavy particles carried by a laminar fluid flow moving downward will also move downward. We establish a theory to show, however, that particles can be dynamically levitated and lifted by interacting vortices in such flows, thereby moving against gravity and the asymptotic direction of the flow, even when they are orders of magnitude denser than the fluid. The particle levitation is rigorously demonstrated for potential flows and supported by simulations for viscous flows. We suggest that this counterintuitive effect has potential implications for the air-transport of water droplets and the lifting of sediments in water.
Laminar boundary layers with uniform shear cross flow
Authors: Weidman Patrick
Published: March 2017

Laminar boundary layers with fully developed uniform shear cross flows are considered. The first streamwise laminar flow is a Blasius boundary layer flow, the second is uniform shear flow over a semi-infinite plate, and the third is the flow induced by a power-law stretching surface. In the first two cases, the effect of streamwise plate motion is taken into account by the parameter λ. In each case, the similarity solutions reduce the governing boundary layer equations to a primary ordinary differential equation for the streamwise flow and a secondary linear equation coupled to the primary solution for the cross flow. It is found that an infinity of solutions exist in each problem and the unique solution in each case is found by applying the Glauert criterion. In some instances, a simple exact solution for the cross flow is presented. Results for the wall shear stresses and velocity profiles are given in graphical form.
Laser-induced molecular alignment in the presence of chaotic rotational dynamics
Authors: Floß Johannes , Brumer Paul
Published: March 2017

Coherent control of chaotic molecular systems, using laser-assisted alignment of sulphur dioxide (SO2) molecules in the presence of a static electric field as an example, is considered. Conditions for which the classical version of this system is chaotic are established, and the quantum and classical analogs are shown to be in very good correspondence. It is found that the chaos present in the classical system does not impede the alignment, neither in the classical nor in the quantum system. Using the results of numerical calculations, we suggest that laser-assisted alignment is stable against rotational chaos for all asymmetric top molecules.
Visible light effects in plasma plume ignition
Authors: Nie L. , Xian Y. , Lu X. , Ostrikov K.
Published: March 2017

The breakdown delay time of a closed plasma plume excited by a high-voltage pulse is investigated. The visible monochromatic light of 404, 532, and 662 nm wavelength and narrow-waveband light at a central wavelength of 400, 430, 450, 470, 500, 530, 570, 610, and 630 nm are used to pre-ionize the gas. It is found that the breakdown delay time decreases when the visible light illuminates the discharge tube. The light is most effective when it is applied at the position near the high-voltage electrode. Besides, the tube material and size are important for enhancing the effect. The jet using quartz tube and larger inner diameter make the effect stronger. The effect of visible light is found to inversely relate to the wavelength, manifested by the longer breakdown delay times for longer wavelengths. With increasing the frequency and the pulse width of the voltage, the visible light shortens the delay time more effectively. These observations can be explained by the visible light-enhanced generation of free electrons before the ignition. The proposed mechanisms of free-electron generation are the optically stimulated exoelectron emission from the inner surface of the discharge tube wall and the vibrational excitation of nitrogen molecules. The effects of visible light weaken with the addition of oxygen as a result of electron affinity to oxygen.
Experimental demonstration of a Ku-band radial-line relativistic klystron oscillator based on transition radiation
Authors: Dang Fangchao , Zhang Xiaoping , Zhang Jun , Ju Jinchuan , Zhong Huihuang
Published: March 2017

We report on a radial-line relativistic klystron oscillator (RL-RKO), which is physically designed to generate gigawatt-level high power microwaves (HPMs) at Ku-band. The 3π/4 mode of a four-gap buncher is selected to highly modulate the radially propagating intense relativistic electron beam (IREB). A three-gap extractor operating at the π mode is employed to extract the radio-frequency energy efficiently. The Ku-band RL-RKO is investigated experimentally on an intense-current electron beam accelerator. The radially propagating IREB is well focused with an axial-width of 2 mm by a radial magnetic field of 0.4 T. Microwaves with a frequency of 14.86 GHz and a power of 1.5 GW are generated, corresponding to an efficiency of 24%, which indicates a significant advance for the research of radial-line HPM sources.
Increased allied health services to general and acute medical units decreases length of stay: comparison with a historical cohort
Authors: Mills Ellen , Hume Vicki , Stiller Kathy
Published: March 2017

Objective
The present study evaluated the effect of an initiative to fund increased allied health (AH) services, enabling increased days and both volume and scope of AH services, for general medical in-patients in the Central Adelaide Local Health Network for a 6-month trial period.

Methods
A quasi-experimental mixed-methods study was undertaken involving general medical in-patients at two acute tertiary-referral public hospitals with a prospective (December 2015–May 2016) and historical comparison (December 2014–May 2015) cohort. Outcome measures compared between the two cohorts included hospital length of stay (LOS), occupied bed-days, adverse events and AH service data.

Results
After implementation of increased AH services, there were significant decreases in the median (interquartile range) of both hospital LOS (from 7.2 (7.0–8.0) to 6.5 (6.1-6.7) days; P = 0.006) and occupied bed-days (from 5295.0 (5200.0–5622.3) to 4662.5 (4335.8–4744.3) bed-days per month; P = 0.004). There was no significant change in weekend discharges or adverse events. AH services increased, with the median number of referrals seen by AH professionals per month, occasions of AH service and AH intervention time per month increasing by 17%, 45% and 43% respectively after implementation, along with a faster response time to referrals.

Conclusions
Increased levels of AH staffing to general medical in-patients were associated with a significant reduction in hospital LOS and occupied bed-days.

What is known about the topic?
AH services are an important component in the delivery of safe, effective and efficient health care to hospitalised patients. There is little evidence specifically investigating the effect of increased AH services for general medical patients in an acute hospital setting.

What does this paper add?
This study provides new evidence demonstrating that increasing AH services to general medical in-patients within two acute tertiary-referral public hospitals decreased hospital LOS and occupied bed-days, without an increase in adverse events.

What are the implications for practitioners?
A funding initiative to enable increased AH services to general medical in-patients significantly reduced hospital LOS and occupied bed-days. These findings will be of considerable interest to other healthcare centres, particularly those where AH levels are below benchmark figures.
Making every Australian count: challenges for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the equal inclusion of homeless Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples with neurocognitive disability
Authors: Townsend Clare , White Paul , Cullen Jennifer , Wright Courtney J. , Zeeman Heidi
Published: March 2017

This article highlights the dearth of accurate evidence available to inform the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) regarding the extent and nature of neurocognitive disability amongst homeless Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Without accurate prevalence rates of neurocognitive disability, homeless Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are in danger of not being counted by the NDIS and not receiving supports to which they are entitled. Addressing this knowledge gap is challenged by a range of factors, including: (1) the long-term effect of profound intergenerational disenfranchisement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; (2) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural perspectives around disability; (3) the generally unrecognised and poorly understood nature of neurocognitive disability; (4) the use of research methods that are not culturally safe; (5) research logistics; and (6) the absence of culturally appropriate assessment tools to identify prevalence. It is argued that an accurate evidence base that is informed by culturally safe research methods and assessment tools is needed to accurately guide the Commonwealth government and the National Disability Insurance Agency about the expected level of need for the NDIS. Research within this framework will contribute to the realisation of a truly inclusive NDIS.