bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Engraftment (16 Years) of Myoblasts in a Human Infarcted Heart
Authors: Crahès Marie , Bories Marie-Cécile , Vilquin Jean-Thomas , Marolleau Jean-Pierre , Desnos Michel , Larghero Jérôme , Soulat Gilles , Bruneval Patrick , Hagège Albert A. , Menasché Philippe
Published: September 2018

We report the case of a patient who had undergone injections of myoblasts in an infarct area 16 years before being referred for heart transplantation. The pathological examination of the explanted heart found persisting myotubes embedded in fibrosis. This finding supports the ability of myoblasts to survive in harsh environments, which can make them appealing candidates for transplantation in diseases requiring supply of new myogenic cells.
Improving the interfacial strength of CF/PMMA composites by grafting GO
Authors: Shengbo Zhang , Qingling Dai
Published: September 2018

Graphene oxides (GOs) are incorporated into the carbon fiber surface to enhance the interfacial bonding of carbon fiber reinforced poly (methyl methacrylate) composite. GO nanoparticles distributed onto the fiber surface uniformly, which could increase surface polarity and roughness obviously. A large number of functional groups were introduced to the fiber surface, and the surface roughness was increased. Simultaneous increases of interlaminar shear strength and interfacial shear strength were achieved compared with those of untreated composites. Scanning electron microscopy images indicated the uniform distribution of GO‐APS on the fiber surface and the effective improvement of surface roughness.
Sputtering yield for Na and Cl ions on a graphene and SiC membrane in the reverse osmosis method
Authors: Rochd Sanaa , El Marsi Meriem , Mizani Soufiya , Salama Latifa , Lahlou Souad , Moultif Rachida , Dezairi Aouatif
Published: September 2018

Graphene is a single layer thick consisted by honeycomb‐packed sp2 carbon atom; nanoporous graphene holds great promise in the application of filtration such as reverse osmosis method using a semipermeable membrane to remove ions, molecules, and larger particles from drinking water. The movement of molecules and ions can caused by a collision between the ions, molecules, and the graphene, so we can talk about the sputtering. In this work, we have studied the sputtering yield by Na and Cl ions to examine the potential and the challenges of osmosis membrane from graphene in order to predict the performance of the graphene membrane for use in the reverse osmosis method.
Pd/SBA‐15 Catalysts for Hydrogenation of Furfuryl Alcohol to Tetrahydrofurfuryl Alcohol
Authors: Chada Raji Reddy , Enumula Siva Sankar , Koppadi Kumara Swamy , Babu Gurram Venkata Ramesh , Rao Kamaraju Seetha Rama , Burri David Raju
Published: September 2018

With the aim of hydrogenating furfuryl alcohol into tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol by avoiding high pressure operations and harmful solvents, a mild and sustainabable operaration is adopted. At this juncture, 1Pd/SBA15, 2Pd/SBA‐15 and 3Pd/SBA‐15 catalysts (where 1, 2 and 3 are wt% of Pd) were prepared by wet impregnation method and characterized by powder X‐ray Diffraction, N2‐physorption, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, CO‐Pulse Chemisorption, H2‐Temperature Programmed Reduction, and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopytechniques. Among the three catalysts, 2Pd/SBA‐15 catalyst is capable of transforming furfuryl alcohol to tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol with nearly 100% conversion and 85% selectivity.The high surface area of SBA‐15 and high dispersion of Pd nanoparticles with large number seems to be influencing such high catalytic activity of 2Pd/SBA‐15. The 2Pd/SBA‐15 catalyst offers stable activity and selectivity during 12 h time on stream, signifying the role of support in the stabilization of Pd nano particles.
Efficient Optimization of the Performance of Mn2+‐Doped Kesterite Solar Cell: Machine Learning Aided Synthesis of High Efficient Cu2(Mn,Zn)Sn(S,Se)4 Solar Cells
Authors: Li Xiuling , Hou Zhufeng , Gao Shoushuai , Zeng Yu , Ao Jianping , Zhou Zhiqiang , Da Bo , Liu Wei , Sun Yun , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2018

Isoelectronic cation substitution is a potential method to decrease the density of Cu‐Zn anti‐site defects in CZTSSe, thus improving the VOC and performance of CZTSSe solar cells. The proper doping concentration is determined traditionally by the trial and error approach, costing much time, and materials. How to shorten the time to find the proper doping concentration is a big challenge for the development of solar cells. Here, by utilizing the machine learning model, the authors carry out an adaptive design for predicting the optimal doping ratio of Mn2+ ions in CZTSSe solar cells for improved solar cell efficiency. With the help of machine learning prediction, the authors rapidly and efficiently find the optimal doping ratio of Mn2+ in CZTSSe solar cells to be 0.05, achieving a highest solar cell efficiency of 8.9% in experiment. Further experimental characterizations of Mn‐doped CZTSSe show that the defect in CZTSSe after Mn doping is changed from an anti‐site CuZn defect to VCu defect. Our findings suggest that machine learning is a very powerful and efficient approach to aid the development of solar cell materials for its application in the photovoltaic field.
William Henry Dines – a blue plaque commemoration
Authors: Strangeways Ian
Published: September 2018

This article describes the ceremony of ‘unveiling’ a blue plaque to commemorate the life and work of the meteorologist and instrument designer, W. H. Dines, at Benson, Oxfordshire.
Parental drinking as context for parental socialization of adolescent alcohol use
Authors: Cox Melissa J. , Janssen Tim , Lopez‐Vergara Hector , Barnett Nancy P. , Jackson Kristina M.
Published: September 2018

Introduction

While alcohol‐specific parenting practices have demonstrated unique effects on adolescent substance use, their efficacy in the context of parental drinking levels has not been studied. This study assessed the influence of three alcohol‐specific parenting practices (rules, punishment, communication) on adolescent alcohol use, and the degree to which those associations varied by parents’ own drinking.

Methods

We conducted logistic regression analyses among US adolescents (N = 1023; 52% female; 12% Hispanic; 76% Caucasian, 5% Black, 8% mixed race, 11% other race/ethnicity; mean age at enrollment = 12.2 years) to examine the relationship between alcohol‐specific parenting practices and the odds of ever having experienced two drinking milestones, having a full drink of alcohol and a heavy drinking episode, and whether parental drinking levels moderated those associations.

Results

Strict rules for drinking, higher levels of cautionary communication messages, and punishment for drinking were associated with lower odds of alcohol use. Witnessing parent drinking increased the risk for both alcohol outcomes. Furthermore, parental drinking modified the influence of parental cautionary messages on alcohol use such that the effect was particularly salient for those youth who witnessed and whose parents reported higher levels of alcohol use.

Conclusions

Family‐based preventive interventions should include skills training in alcohol‐specific parenting practices with emphasis on reducing parental alcohol use particularly when children are present.
Emergency medicine resident wellness: Lessons learned from a national survey
Authors: Taher Ahmed , Hart Alexander , Dattani Neil Dinesh , Poonja Zafrina , Bova Christina , Bandiera Glen , Pardhan Kaif
Published: September 2018

CLINICIAN’S CAPSULE

What is known about the topic?

Emergency medicine (EM) residents face many wellness challenges during residency.

What did this study ask?

What was the current landscape of Canadian EM resident wellness?

What did this study find?

Canadian EM residents face a multitude of psychosocial and physical wellness challenges, while supports may not be adequate.

Why does this study matter to clinicians?

Opportunities exist to further investigate resident wellness with validated tools, engage stakeholders, and advance the EM resident wellness agenda.
Topical tranexamic acid for the treatment of epistaxis in patients using antiplatelet agents
Authors: Sanderson Mark , Powell James , Lang Eddy
Published: September 2018

Clinical question

Does the addition of topical tranexamic acid to anterior nasal packing decrease bleeding in patients with epistaxis who are taking antiplatelet medications?

Article chosen

Zahed R, Jayazeri M, Naderi A, et al. Topical tranexamic acid compared with anterior nasal packing for treatment of epistaxis in patients taking antiplatelet drugs: randomized controlled trial. Acad Emerg Med 2018;25(3):261-6.

Objectives

The primary outcome of this randomized controlled trial was the percentage of patients whose epistaxis had stopped at 10 minutes from the time of intervention. Secondary outcomes included the frequency of epistaxis recurrence at both 24 hours and 7 days, emergency department length of stay, and patient satisfaction.
AN ALGEBRO-GEOMETRIC STUDY OF SPECIAL VALUES OF HYPERGEOMETRIC FUNCTIONS
Authors: ASAKURA MASANORI , OTSUBO NORIYUKI , TERASOMA TOMOHIDE
Published: September 2018

For a certain class of hypergeometric functions $_{3}F_{2}$ with rational parameters, we give a sufficient condition for the special value at $1$ to be expressed in terms of logarithms of algebraic numbers. We give two proofs, both of which are algebro-geometric and related to higher regulators.
A Two-Stage Approach to Civil Conflict: Contested Incompatibilities and Armed Violence
Authors: Bartusevičius Henrikas , Gleditsch Kristian Skrede
Published: September 2018

We present a two-stage approach to civil conflict analysis. Unlike conventional approaches that focus only on armed conflict and treat all other cases as “at peace,” we first distinguish cases with and without contested incompatibilities (Stage 1) and then whether or not contested incompatibilities escalate to armed conflict (Stage 2). This allows us to analyze factors that relate to conflict origination (onset of incompatibilities) and factors that predict conflict militarization (onset of armed violence). Using new data on incompatibilities and armed conflict, we replicate and extend three prior studies of violent civil conflict, reformulated as a two-stage process, considering different estimation procedures and potential selection problems. We find that the group-based horizontal political inequalities highlighted in research on violent civil conflict clearly relate to conflict origination but have no clear association with militarization, whereas other features emphasized as shaping the risk of civil war, such as refugee flows and soft state power, predict militarization but not incompatibilities. A two-stage approach to conflict analysis can help advance theories of civil conflict, assess alternative mechanisms through which explanatory variables are thought to influence conflict, and guide new data-collection efforts.
Volumetric analysis of vocal fold atrophy via magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Saint-Victor S , Barbarite E , Sidani C , Bhatia R , Rosow D E
Published: September 2018

Objective

To quantitatively test the hypothesis that older patients have increased thyroarytenoid muscle atrophy by comparing thyroarytenoid muscle volumes across different age groups.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted. The study included 111 patients with no history of laryngeal pathology. Two investigators reviewed magnetic resonance imaging studies of these patients and manually traced the thyroarytenoid muscles on multiple slices bilaterally. Thyroarytenoid muscle volumes were then computed using imaging analysis software. Patients were stratified into three age groups (18–50 years, 51–64 years, and 65 years or older) for comparison.

Results

Intra- and inter-rater reliabilities were excellent for all measurements (intraclass correlation co-efficient > 0.90). There was no statistically significant difference in the mean volumes of left and right thyroarytenoid muscles in all age and gender groups.

Conclusion

Given the lack of statistically significant difference in thyroarytenoid muscle volume between age groups on magnetic resonance imaging, the prevailing assumption that age-related thyroarytenoid muscle atrophy contributes to presbyphonia should be re-examined.
A reassessment of the extinction risk of the Critically Endangered Oxapampa poison frog Ameerega planipaleae (Dendrobatidae)
Authors: Angulo Ariadne , von May Rudolf , Icochea Javier
Published: September 2018

Assessments of extinction risk are required to inform conservation action, but the usefulness of assessments is undermined if they are not current. Ameerega planipaleae, a poison frog endemic to the cloud forests of central Peru, was last assessed in 2004. We therefore sought to provide updated data to inform the reassessment of this species. Based on our findings, we recommend that this frog remain categorized as Critically Endangered, but under modified criteria, and that conservation actions are taken to reduce the pressures of local threats, especially the overuse of agrochemicals.
A systematic review of the Trypanosoma cruzi genetic heterogeneity, host immune response and genetic factors as plausible drivers of chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Jiménez Paula , Jaimes Jesús , Poveda Cristina , Ramírez Juan David
Published: September 2018

Chagas disease is a complex tropical pathology caused by the kinetoplastid Trypanosoma cruzi. This parasite displays massive genetic diversity and has been classified by international consensus in at least six Discrete Typing Units (DTUs) that are broadly distributed in the American continent. The main clinical manifestation of the disease is the chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy (CCC) that is lethal in the infected individuals. However, one intriguing feature is that only 30–40% of the infected individuals will develop CCC. Some authors have suggested that the immune response, host genetic factors, virulence factors and even the massive genetic heterogeneity of T. cruzi are responsible of this clinical pattern. To date, no conclusive data support the reason why a few percentages of the infected individuals will develop CCC. Therefore, we decided to conduct a systematic review analysing the host genetic factors, immune response, cytokine production, virulence factors and the plausible association of the parasite DTUs and CCC. The epidemiological and clinical implications are herein discussed.
Heritage language education: Development of the field in the United States
Authors: Kagan Olga , Dillon Kathleen
Published: September 2018

Since at the turn of the twenty-first century heritage language (HL) research and education was a new field emerging, this research timeline traces the complete history of the field in the US through 2016. It highlights how theories and perspectives have changed, been challenged, and widely accepted. The field's roots are in Spanish since, as the language of the most numerous immigration group, it has long been a commonly taught language in the US.
Nationalism on Weibo: Towards a Multifaceted Understanding of Chinese Nationalism
Authors: Zhang Yinxian , Liu Jiajun , Wen Ji-Rong
Published: September 2018

It appears that nationalism has been on the rise in China in recent years, particularly among online communities. Scholars agree that the Chinese government is facing pressure from online nationalistic and pro-democracy forces; however, it is believed that of the two, nationalistic views are the more dominant. Online nationalism is believed to have pushed the Chinese government to be more aggressive in diplomacy. This study challenges this conventional wisdom by finding that online political discourse isnotdominated by nationalistic views, but rather by anti-regime sentiments. Even when there is an outpouring of nationalist sentiment, it may be accompanied by pro-democracy views that criticize the government. By analysing more than 6,000 tweets from 146 Chinese opinion leaders on Weibo, and by decomposing nationalistic discussion by specific topic, this study shows that rather than being monolithically xenophobic, nationalists may have differing sets of views regarding China's supposed rivals. Rather than being supportive of the regime, nationalists may incorporate liberal values to challenge the government. Nonetheless, this liberal dominance appears to provoke a backlash of nationalism among certain groups.
“No CCP, No New China”: Pastoral Power in Official Narratives in China
Authors: Zhang Xiaoling , Brown Melissa Shani , O'Brien David
Published: September 2018

Guided by Michel Foucault's concept of “pastoral power,” this article examines the ways in which contemporary discourses within official narratives in China portray the state in a paternal fashion to reinforce its legitimacy. Employing interdisciplinary approaches, this article explores a number of sites in Urumqi, the regional capital of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), in order to map how a coherent official narrative of power and authority is created and reinforced across different spaces and texts. It demonstrates how both history and the present day are depicted in urban Xinjiang in order to portray the state in a pastoral role that legitimates its use of force, as well as emphasizing its core role in developing the region out of poverty and into “civilization.”
Awkward Independents: What Are Third-Party Candidates Doing on Twitter?
Authors: Evans Heather K. , Habib Jessica , Litzen Danielle , San Jose Bryan , Ziegenbein Ashlee
Published: September 2018

Previous literature on partisan campaign behavior shows that third-party candidates do not have the same presence online as major-party candidates, and these differences have been linked regularly to campaign finance. Twitter, however, has changed the online campaigning game. Because Twitter essentially is free, third-party candidates can even the playing field with major-party candidates who have more financial resources. The question asked in this article is whether this is actually the case. Evans, Cordova, and Sipole (2014) showed that in 2012, third-party candidates were less likely to have accounts on Twitter; however, those who had accounts tweeted more often than major party candidates. This article updates those findings to consider the behavior of third-party candidates during the 2014 and 2016 congressional races. Using a dataset of all candidates for both the US House and the US Senate, we show that the gap has begun to close between major- and minor-party candidates on Twitter. Third-party candidates, however, continue to have a different way of communicating with their followers on Twitter when compared to Democrats and Republicans.
Tumour bed localisation after oncoplastic breast conservative surgery: a comparative contouring study
Authors: Fawzy Radwa , Lasheen Shaimaa , Kamaleldin Maha , Wessam Rasha , Khallaf Emad , Moussa Mohamed
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To investigate the modalities of tumour bed (TB) localisation of target volume delineation [clinically computed tomography (CT), ultrasound (US) compared with surgical clips-guided] and the impact of their differences in delineated TB volumes.

Material and methods

In total, 27 patients who underwent oncoplastic breast conservative surgery with surgical clips insertion (at least three) were included. CT and US imaging for TB localisation were done 3–4 weeks post-operatively in the same treatment position. TB was delineated four times, guided by surgical clips, clinical data, CT (seroma) and US. A plan was done for each TB delineated. The four delineated volumes were compared regarding the volumetric differences, the geographical miss index (GMI) and the overlap index.

Results

Comparing the four modalities, median TB volume was for clinical (60.7), CT (60.8) and US (49.3) cm3, in comparison with 59.7 cm3 for clips, p=0.05. Median of GMI (represented the tissue at risk of recurrence and not had been treated) was for clinical (61.8), CT (45) and US (62.4)%, with significant difference of p=0.02. Median of normal tissue index (normal tissue has been included unnecessarily) was for clinical (59.5), CT (49.6) and US (62.3)%, p=0.17. Overlap index with clips-guided was for clinical (0.36), CT (0.42) and US (0.35) with significance of p=0.04. Median superior/inferior direction was 0.72, −0.03 and −0.2 cm for clinical, CT and US, respectively, with significant value of p=0.02, whereas the anterior–posterior was −0.07, −0.15 and −0.09 cm, p-value=0.45 and the medio–lateral was 0.4, −0.13 and 0.09 cm, p=0.60.

Conclusion

Significant differences in shifts and indices were detected between each of modalities compared with surgical clips. Thus, in the setting of oncoplastic breast surgery, surgical clips should be routinely used for TB localisation. In view of the larger volumes of breast tissue excised and the extensive remodelling that are inherent to oncoplastic procedures, the concept of TB boost irradiation should be re-challenged.
Psychoses sans Frontieres: towards an interdisciplinary understanding of psychosis risk amongst migrants and their descendants
Authors: Dykxhoorn J. , Kirkbride J. B.
Published: September 2018

Understanding the excess risk of psychotic disorders in migrant and ethnic minority groups has long been an important research focus in psychiatric epidemiology and public mental health. Heterogeneity between migrant groups based on the region of origin, minority status and other socioeconomic factors may provide clues as to the underlying aetiological mechanisms explaining this risk, as well as informing our general understanding of psychotic disorders. Nonetheless, disentangling the mechanisms underlying this association has been the focus of more speculation and theory to date than empirical research. Now more than ever, we need to move beyond studies which demonstrate excess rates in migrant and ethnic minority groups to novel population-based studies which identify the determinants and mechanisms through which this risk is shaped. In this paper, we review the main hypotheses proposed to explain these disparities and the current level of support for them. We then highlight recent evidence from epidemiology and neuroscience which provides important new clues in our understanding of the aetiology of psychotic disorders. We concluded with suggestions for future interdisciplinary research to prevent this public mental health inequality within a generation.
The neural basis of hostility-related dimensions in schizophrenia
Authors: Perlini C. , Bellani M. , Besteher B. , Nenadić I. , Brambilla P.
Published: September 2018

Hostility and related dimensions like anger, urgency, impulsivity and aggressiveness have been described in non-clinical populations and various serious mental illnesses including schizophrenia. Although representing a mental healthcare challenge, the investigation of such constructs is often limited by the presence of complex and multi-factorial causes and lack of agreement in their conceptualisation and measurement. In this review, we aim to clarify the anatomical basis of hostility-related dimensions in schizophrenia. Imaging studies suggest malfunctioning of a neural circuitry including amygdala, striatum, prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, insula and hippocampus to modulate hostile thoughts and behaviours, at least in the subgroup of patients with schizophrenia who exhibit high levels of urgency, impulsivity and aggressiveness.
Activity of Florpyrauxifen-benzyl on Fall Panicum (Panicum dichotomiflorumMichx.) and Nealley’s Sprangletop (Leptochloa nealleyiVasey)
Authors: Teló Gustavo M. , Webster Eric P. , McKnight Benjamin M. , Blouin David C. , Rustom Samer Y.
Published: September 2018

A glasshouse study was established at Louisiana State University campus in Baton Rouge, LA, to evaluate the control of fall panicum and Nealley’s sprangletop treated with florpyrauxifen-benzyl. Florpyrauxifen was applied at 30 g ai ha–1to each grass species at the three- to four-leaf and one- to two-tiller stages of growth. At 21 d after treatment (DAT), fall panicum control was 91% when treated with florpyrauxifen at the three- to four-leaf stage, and Nealley’s sprangletop control was 78% to 82%, regardless of application timing 21 DAT. Leaf number, tiller number, plant height, and plant fresh weight were reduced when fall panicum and Nealley’s sprangletop were treated with florpyrauxifen. This information can be useful for developing weed management strategies with this herbicide for rice production, and it provides an additional mode of action to help manage and/or delay the development of herbicide-resistant weeds.
Webb Telescope May Detect Minerals from Shredded Worlds
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: September 2018

The upcoming James Webb Space Telescope should be able to measure the composition of vaporizing exoplanets, giving clues about the makeup of their cores, mantles, and crusts.
TID Observations and Source Analysis During the 2017 Memorial Day Weekend Geomagnetic Storm Over North America
Authors: Jonah O. F. , Coster A. , Zhang S. , Goncharenko L. , Erickson P. J. , de Paula E. R. , Kherani E. A.
Published: September 2018

We investigate ionospheric perturbations associated with traveling ionospheric disturbance (TID) during the geomagnetic storm on Memorial Day weekend (28 May) 2017. Results show the presence of both equatorward propagating large‐scale TIDs (LSTIDs) and poleward propagating medium‐scale TIDs. Equatorward moving TIDs are connected with enhanced auroral activity owing to geomagnetic storm conditions, while poleward TIDs are believed to be induced by local atmospheric gravity wave sources originating from convection activities near the West Coast of North America. Measurements from magnetometers located in the west, central, and east regions of North America are used to evaluate energy inputs from the auroral belt, and these observations confirm that equatorward LSTIDs are due to geomagnetic disturbance. The observed LSTID waves were characterized by some uncommon features, such as horizontal wavefront stretching from coast to coast, aligned in the NW to SE direction, and propagating to the southwest (equatorward) direction during the storm main phase period. In contrast, during the recovery phase and on other experimental control days, the observed medium‐scale TIDs were characterized with relatively smaller wavelengths aligned in the NW to SE direction and propagate primarily in the northeast (poleward) direction. Our results also reveal that LSTID waves appear to travel faster in the central continental region compared to LSTIDs in the western and eastern regions.
The South Asian Monsoon Response to Remote Aerosols: Global and Regional Mechanisms
Authors: Shawki D. , Voulgarakis A. , Chakraborty A. , Kasoar M. , Srinivasan J.
Published: September 2018

The South Asian summer monsoon has been suggested to be influenced by atmospheric aerosols, and this influence can be the result of either local or remote emissions. We have used the Hadley Centre Global Environment Model Version 3 (HadGEM3) coupled atmosphere‐ocean climate model to investigate for the first time the centennial‐scale South Asian precipitation response to emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), the dominant anthropogenic precursor of sulfate aerosol, from different midlatitude regions. Despite the localized nature of the regional heating that results from removing SO2 emissions, all experiments featured a similar large‐scale precipitation response over South Asia, driven by ocean‐modulated changes in the net cross‐equatorial heat transport and an opposing cross‐equatorial northward moisture transport. The effects are linearly additive, with the sum of the responses from the experiments where SO2 is removed from the United States, Europe, and East Asia resembling the response seen in the experiment where emissions are removed from the northern midlatitudes as a whole, but with East Asia being the largest contributor, even per unit of emission or top‐of‐atmosphere radiative forcing. This stems from the fact that East Asian emissions can more easily influence regional land‐sea thermal contrasts and sea level pressure differences that drive the monsoon circulation, compared to emissions from more remote regions. Our results suggest that radiative effects of remote pollution should not be neglected when examining changes in South Asian climate and that and it is important to examine such effects in coupled ocean‐atmosphere modeling frameworks.
What Controls ENSO Teleconnection to East Asia? Role of Western North Pacific Precipitation in ENSO Teleconnection to East Asia
Authors: Kim Sunyong , Kug Jong‐Seong
Published: September 2018

There are distinct impacts of anomalous tropical forcings associated with the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the climate in East Asia via an atmospheric teleconnection. In this study, the intrawinter changes in the atmospheric teleconnection and its regional impacts associated with ENSO are investigated using data from 386 weather stations throughout Korea, China, and Japan. It has recently been shown that the relative roles of western North Pacific (WNP) and equatorial central Pacific (CP) precipitation anomalies play an important role in determining the ENSO teleconnection in the North Pacific. Here we show that the ENSO impacts over East Asia can also be largely explained by a combination of WNP and equatorial CP forcing. Further, the diverse regional impacts among different ENSO events can be explained to a large extent by the relative roles of the WNP and equatorial CP precipitation. Analyses from state‐of‐the‐art coupled model simulations from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 archive support these observational arguments.
Space Weathering Induced Via Microparticle Impacts: 1. Modeling of Impact Velocities and Flux of Micrometeoroids From Cometary, Asteroidal, and Interstellar Origin in the Main Asteroid Belt and the Near‐Earth Environment
Authors: Altobelli N. , Fiege K. , Carry B. , Soja R. , Guglielmino M. , Trieloff M. , Orlando T. M. , Srama R.
Published: September 2018

The processes of alteration of airless bodies exposed to the space environment are referred to be as “space weathering.” Multiple agents contribute generally to space weathering, to an extent that depends on the specific location of the surface within the solar system. Typical space weathering agents encountered in the solar system are solar radiation, solar wind and cosmic rays, magnetospheric plasma (e.g., at Jupiter or Saturn), and cosmic dust. The effect of space weathering is generally assessed by measuring the surfaces optical properties, for example, by near‐infrared spectroscopy. The alteration of the surfaces is due to a cumulative effect over time of all agents. We investigate in this paper the contribution of micrometeoroid (dust) bombardment on different asteroids, by using the Interplanetary Micrometeoroid Environment Model for the interplanetary dust populations and a simplified model of interstellar dust dynamics. We quantify, for different representative asteroids (main belt and Near Earth Objects [NEOs]), the particle cumulative flux, mass flux, impact velocity, and the kinetic impact energy deposited. This work is primarily intended to support laboratory work investigating the effect of energy deposition onto sample surfaces, as well as astronomical observations of optical properties of asteroid surfaces.
Changes in Wood Biomass and Crop Yields in Response to Projected CO2, O3, Nitrogen Deposition, and Climate
Authors: Lombardozzi Danica L. , Bonan Gordan B. , Levis Samuel , Lawrence David M.
Published: September 2018

As the world's population increases, so will the demand for food and timber resources. Though carbon dioxide (CO2) fertilization and, to a lesser extent, nitrogen (N) deposition are expected to increase future resource production, changes in ozone (O3) and climate have the potential to decrease production due to increased phytotoxic damage, drought, and heat stress. To determine how crop and timber production may change in the future, we use the Community Land Model version 4.5 with prognostic crops to simulate responses of wood biomass and crop yields to CO2, O3, N deposition, and climate under Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 forcings. Generally, rising CO2 increases wood biomass and crop yields, while projected climate change causes decreases. Small projected changes in O3 and N deposition do not strongly affect yields, though additional research is needed on future O3 and N deposition trends and impacts. By the end of the 21st century, global wood biomass increases by ~16% due to the dominating impact of CO2. The positive effect of CO2 on future crop yields is muted by the negative impacts of climate, with a ~5% net global increase. Future projections suggest that rice and wheat yields typically increase under the combination of future forcings, whereas soy and corn yields are regionally variable. While short‐term resource management strategies can benefit from planting heat‐tolerant species and cultivars, technological advances and intensification, among other management strategies not included here, must be employed to meet the future demand for these resources.
A deep learning-enabled portable imaging flow cytometer for cost-effective, high-throughput, and label-free analysis of natural water samples
Authors: Gӧrӧcs Zoltán , Tamamitsu Miu , Bianco Vittorio , Wolf Patrick , Roy Shounak , Shindo Koyoshi , Yanny Kyrollos , Wu Yichen , Koydemir Hatice Ceylan , Rivenson Yair , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: September 2018

We report a deep learning-enabled field-portable and cost-effective imaging flow cytometer that automatically captures phase-contrast color images of the contents of a continuously flowing water sample at a throughput of 100 mL/h. The device is based on partially coherent lens-free holographic microscopy and acquires the diffraction patterns of flowing micro-objects inside a microfluidic channel. These holographic diffraction patterns are reconstructed in real time using a deep learning-based phase-recovery and image-reconstruction method to produce a color image of each micro-object without the use of external labeling. Motion blur is eliminated by simultaneously illuminating the sample with red, green, and blue light-emitting diodes that are pulsed. Operated by a laptop computer, this portable device measures 15.5 cm × 15 cm × 12.5 cm, weighs 1 kg, and compared to standard imaging flow cytometers, it provides extreme reductions of cost, size and weight while also providing a high volumetric throughput over a large object size range. We demonstrated the capabilities of this device by measuring ocean samples at the Los Angeles coastline and obtaining images of its micro- and nanoplankton composition. Furthermore, we measured the concentration of a potentially toxic alga (Pseudo-nitzschia) in six public beaches in Los Angeles and achieved good agreement with measurements conducted by the California Department of Public Health. The cost-effectiveness, compactness, and simplicity of this computational platform might lead to the creation of a network of imaging flow cytometers for large-scale and continuous monitoring of the ocean microbiome, including its plankton composition.
Adaptation decorrelates shape representations
Authors: Mattar Marcelo G. , Olkkonen Maria , Epstein Russell A. , Aguirre Geoffrey K.
Published: September 2018

Perception and neural responses are modulated by sensory history. Visual adaptation, an example of such an effect, has been hypothesized to improve stimulus discrimination by decorrelating responses across a set of neural units. While a central theoretical model, behavioral and neural evidence for this theory is limited and inconclusive. Here, we use a parametric 3D shape-space to test whether adaptation decorrelates shape representations in humans. In a behavioral experiment with 20 subjects, we find that adaptation to a shape class improves discrimination of subsequently presented stimuli with similar features. In a BOLD fMRI experiment with 10 subjects, we observe that adaptation to a shape class decorrelates the multivariate representations of subsequently presented stimuli with similar features in object-selective cortex. These results support the long-standing proposal that adaptation improves perceptual discrimination and decorrelates neural representations, offering insights into potential underlying mechanisms.
Dietary niches of terrestrial cercopithecines from the Plio-Pleistocene Shungura Formation, Ethiopia: evidence from Dental Microwear Texture Analysis
Authors: Martin Florian , Plastiras Chris-Alexander , Merceron Gildas , Souron Antoine , Boisserie Jean-Renaud
Published: September 2018

This study aims to explore the feeding ecology of two terrestrial papionins,PapioandTheropithecusfrom the Shungura Formation in Ethiopia, the most complete stratigraphic and paleontological record of the African Plio-Pleistocene. Two aspects were evaluated using Dental Microwear Texture Analysis: differences in diet between the extinct genera and their extant relatives, and any potential dietary fluctuations over time. Amongst more than 2,500 cercopithecid dental remains, 154Theropithecusmolars and 60Papiomolars were considered. Thirty-nine extant wild baboons and 20 wild geladas were also considered. The results show that diets of extinct monkeys from Member G already differed between genera as it is the case for their extant representatives. The shearing facets on theTheropithecusmolars display significant variations in microwear textures, suggesting several dietary shifts over time. Two events point to higher intakes of herbaceous monocots (tougher than dicots foliages), at about 2.91 Ma (between members B and C) and at 2.32 Ma (between members E and F). These two events are separated by an inverse trend at about 2.53 Ma (between members C and D). Some of these variations, such as between members E and F are supported by the enamel carbon isotopic composition of herbivorous mammals and with paleovegetation evidence.
Mantle Cloaks Based on the Frequency Selective Metasurfaces Designed by Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Qin F. F. , Liu Z. Z. , Zhang Q. , Zhang H. , Xiao J. J.
Published: September 2018

We propose a full optimization procedure for designing mantle cloaks enclosing arbitrary objects, using sub-wavelength conformal frequency selective surface (FSS). Rely on the scattering cancellation principle of mantle cloak characterized by an average surface reactance, a personal computer can achieve this design procedure. By combing a Bayesian optimization (BO) with an electromagnetic solver, we can automatically find the optimal parameters of a conformal mantle cloak which can nearly cancel the scattering from the enclosed objects. It is shown that the results obtained by our method coincide with those from a rigorous analytical model and the numerical results by full parametric scanning. The proposed methodology opens up a new route for realizing ultra-wideband illusion scattering of electromagnetic wave, which is important for stealth and microwave applications.
Arthroscopy Assisted Reduction Percutaneous Internal Fixation versus Open Reduction Internal Fixation for Low Energy Tibia Plateau Fractures
Authors: Wang Yiyang , Wang Jianping , Tang Jun , Zhou Feiya , Yang Lei , Wu Jianbin
Published: September 2018

The purpose of our study was to compare the curative effect of two surgical methods for Schatzker type I to III tibia plateau fractures, arthroscopy assisted reduction percutaneous internal fixation (ARIF) and open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), with the intent of evaluating the quality of evidence to assist treatment selection. Searches of PubMed, Cochrane and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases were performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing ARIF and ORIF regarding the following outcomes: functional outcomes, perioperative complications and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Odds ratios (OR) and weighted mean differences (MDs) were pooled using either a fixed-effects model or random-effects model, depending on the heterogeneity of the trials included in the analysis. 19 RCTs and one quasi-RCT provided the data from 1272 patients. ARIF was associated with better functional outcomes, a lower risk of perioperative complications, and lower risk of post-traumatic osteoarthritis. After consideration of the quality of evidence of the included studies, the advantages provided by ARIF are not substantive over ORIF for the treatment of Schatzker type I to III tibia plateau fractures, except reducing the risk of perioperative complications.
Effects of incorporation of granule-lyophilised platelet-rich fibrin into polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel on wound healing
Authors: Xu Fangfang , Zou Dehui , Dai Taiqiang , Xu HaiYan , An Ran , Liu Yanpu , Liu Bin
Published: September 2018

Dressings are commonly used to treat skin wounds. In this study, we aimed to develop a new scaffold composed of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel containing granule-lyophilised platelet-rich fibrin (G-L-PRF) as a dressing. G-L-PRF was prepared by freeze-drying and was then incorporated into PVA hydrogel by freezing-thawing. Notably, the mechanical strength and degradation rate of the scaffold were found to be related to G-L-PRF concentrations, reaching 6.451 × 10−2 MPa and 17–22%, respectively, at a concentration of 1%. However, the strength decreased and the degradation was accelerated when the G-L-PRF concentration was over 1%. The elastic properties and biocompatibility of the scaffold were independent of G-L-PRF concentration, and both showed excellent elasticity and biocompatibility. The release of vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor-AB was no significant time dependent. Additionally, application of 1% G-L-PRF/PVA to acute full-thickness dorsal skin wounds accelerated wound closure at days 7 and 9. Healing also increased on day 11. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses showed that the scaffold enhanced granulation tissue, maturity, collagen deposition, and new vessel formation. These results demonstrated that the prepared G-L-PRF/PVA scaffolds accelerated wound healing in acute full-thickness skin wounds, suggesting potential applications as an ideal wound dressing.
Structural cycle of the Thermus thermophilus PilF ATPase: the powering of type IVa pilus assembly
Authors: Collins Richard , Karuppiah Vijaykumar , Siebert C. Alistair , Dajani Rana , Thistlethwaite Angela , Derrick Jeremy P.
Published: September 2018

Type IV pili are responsible for a diverse range of functions, including twitching motility and cell adhesion. Assembly of the pilus fiber is driven by a cytoplasmic ATPase: it interacts with an inner membrane complex of biogenesis proteins which, in turn, bind to nascent pilin subunits and mediate fiber assembly. Here we report the structural characterization of the PilF TFP assembly ATPase from Thermus thermophilus. The crystal structure of a recombinant C-terminal fragment of PilF revealed bound, unhydrolysed ATP, although the full length complex was enzymatically active. 3D reconstructions were carried out by single particle cryoelectron microscopy for full length apoprotein PilF and in complex with AMPPNP. The structure forms an hourglass-like shape, with the ATPase domains in one half and the N1 domains in the second half which, we propose, interact with the other pilus biogenesis components. Molecular models for both forms were generated: binding of AMPPNP causes an upward shift of the N1 domains towards the ATPase domains of ~8 Å. We advocate a model in which ATP hydrolysis is linked to displacement of the N1 domains which is associated with lifting pilin subunits out of the inner membrane, and provide the activation energy needed to form the pilus fiber.
Interaction of mitochondrial fission factor with dynamin related protein 1 governs physiological mitochondrial function in vivo
Authors: Kornfeld Opher S. , Qvit Nir , Haileselassie Bereketeab , Shamloo Mehrdad , Bernardi Paolo , Mochly-Rosen Daria
Published: September 2018

Mitochondria form a dynamic network governed by a balance between opposing fission and fusion processes. Because excessive mitochondrial fission correlates with numerous pathologies, including neurodegeneration, the mechanism governing fission has become an attractive therapeutic strategy. However, targeting fission is a double-edged sword as physiological fission is necessary for mitochondrial function. Fission is trigged by Drp1 anchoring to adaptors tethered to the outer mitochondrial membrane. We designed peptide P259 that distinguishes physiological from pathological fission by specifically inhibiting Drp1′s interaction with the Mff adaptor. Treatment of cells with P259 elongated mitochondria and disrupted mitochondrial function and motility. Sustained in vivo treatment caused a decline in ATP levels and altered mitochondrial structure in the brain, resulting in behavioral deficits in wild-type mice and a shorter lifespan in a mouse model of Huntington’s disease. Therefore, the Mff-Drp1 interaction is critical for physiological mitochondrial fission, motility, and function in vitro and in vivo. Tools, such as P259, that differentiate physiological from pathological fission will enable the examination of context-dependent roles of Drp1 and the suitability of mitochondrial fission as a target for drug development.
Imaging of human cells exposed to an antifungal antibiotic amphotericin B reveals the mechanisms associated with the drug toxicity and cell defence
Authors: Grela Ewa , Piet Mateusz , Luchowski Rafal , Grudzinski Wojciech , Paduch Roman , Gruszecki Wieslaw I.
Published: September 2018

Amphotericin B is an antibiotic used in pharmacotherapy of life-threatening mycotic infections. Unfortunately, the applicability of this antibiotic is associated with highly toxic side effects. In order to understand molecular mechanisms underlying toxicity of amphotericin B to patients, two cell lines, human normal colon epithelial cells (CCD 841 CoTr) and human colon adenocarcinoma cells (HT-29) were cultured in the presence of the drug and imaged with the application of fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy and Raman scattering microscopy. The results of the cell viability assays confirm high toxicity of amphotericin B towards human cells. The images recorded demonstrate effective binding of amphotericin B to biomembranes. Analysis of the images reveals the operation of a defence mechanism based upon the elimination of molecules of the drug from living cells via formation of small amphotericin B-containing lipid vesicles. The fact that exosomes formed are devoid of cholesterol, as concluded on the basis of the results of Raman analysis, suggests that sequestration of sterols from the lipid phase of biomembranes is not a sole mechanism responsible for the toxic side effects of amphotericin B. Alternatively, the results imply that molecules of the drug present directly within the hydrophobic membrane core disturb the lipid membrane structure and affect their biological functions.