bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing native desert vegetation recovery in a war‐affected area using multispectral and hyperspectral imagery: a case study of the Sabah Al‐Ahmad Nature Reserve, Kuwait
Authors: Abdullah Meshal M. , Addae‐Wireko Louis , Tena‐Gonzalez Georgina A.
Published: May 2017

The primary aim of this project was to assess vegetation changes in the Sabah Al‐Ahmad Nature Reserve, Kuwait, which is a war‐affected area following the Iraqi invasion in 1990. After the liberation in 1991, several portions of the reserve were under a restoration program. Remote sensing has been used as a tool to assess vegetation and land cover changes. We studied the feasibility of three common methods—the Mahalanobis distance (MD), maximum likelihood (ML), and support vector machine (SVM)—for classification of the multispectral imagery (Landsat) and hyperspectral (Hyperion). The reserve was also compared to the demilitarized zone (DMZ) located at Umm Nigga at the northern border of Kuwait, as it had recovered naturally, to distinguish between an autogenic recovery and a restored area. We discovered that the location was damaged during the military occupation, but a rapid recovery of the vegetation was then recorded in the reserve after the war from less than 1% measured in 1991 to 42% in 1998. Then, the vegetation cover significantly decreased in 2002 (26%) and slightly increased in 2013 (28%). We found that similar rapid increase in vegetation cover occurred in most parts of the reserve that was under the restoration program, and in the DMZ, which was naturally recovered. We concluded that remote sensing technologies are helpful tools in understanding the process of vegetation recovery as it provides information on location and timing of recovery, particularly where optimal condition exists.
Late Pleistocene slip rate of the northern Qilian Shan frontal thrust, western Hexi Corridor, China
Authors: Liu Xing‐Wang , Yuan Dao‐Yang , Su Qi
Published: May 2017

We derive a slip rate for a frontal thrust in the western Hexi Corridor along the northern Qilian Shan by combining topographic profiling and 10Be exposure dating. The active Yumen‐Beidahe thrust fault offsets late Pleistocene alluvial‐fan deposits, and a prominent north‐facing scarp is well preserved. To quantify the slip rate, we surveyed the uplifted terraces and sampled quartz‐rich pebbles on terrace surfaces and river channels to determine surface exposure ages and pre‐depositional inheritance. The minimum vertical slip rate of the fault is 0.73 ± 0.09 mm a−1. This represents a horizontal shortening rate of 1.26 ± 0.31 mm a−1 for a fault dip of 30 ± 5°. This estimated slip rate supports the inference made from previous geological and GPS constraints that NNE‐directed shortening across the western Qilian Shan and the Hexi Corridor is distributed on several active faults with a total shortening rate of 4–10 mm a−1.
Platelet proteins cause basophil histamine release through an immunoglobulin‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Lee Donna Dong‐Young , Muskaj Igla , Savage William
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

A general understanding of allergic transfusion reaction mechanisms remains elusive. Multiple mechanisms have been proposed, but none have been compared experimentally.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We used histamine release (HR) from healthy human donor basophils to model allergic transfusion reactions. Platelet component supernatant (plasma), platelet lysate, and manipulated platelet lysates (dialyzed, delipidated, trypsinized, mild heat‐inactivated, and ultracentrifuged) were used to characterize allergic stimuli. Immunoglobulin‐dependent mechanisms were investigated through cell surface immunoglobulin depletion and ibrutinib signaling inhibition. HR induced by platelet mitochondria was compared with HR by platelet lysate with or without DNase treatment.

RESULTS

Robust, dose‐responsive HR to platelet lysate was observed in two of eight nulliparous, never‐transfused, healthy donors. No HR was observed with plasma. Among manipulated platelet lysates, only trypsin treatment significantly reduced HR (39% reduction; p = 0.008). HR in response to platelet lysate significantly decreased with either cell surface immunoglobulin depletion or ibrutinib pretreatment. Platelet mitochondria induced minimal basophil HR, and DNase treatment did not inhibit platelet lysate–induced HR.

CONCLUSION

Type I immediate hypersensitivity to platelet proteins may be an allergic transfusion reaction mechanism. Prior sensitization to human proteins is not required for basophil responses to platelet proteins. Further study into the relative contributions of hypersensitivity to platelet versus plasma proteins in transfusion is warranted.
If You Were in My Sneakers: Migration Stories in the Studio Photography of Dakar‐Based Omar Victor Diop
Authors: Buggenhagen Beth
Published: May 2017

If one of the defining images of the present is the unregulated migration of individuals and families across the Mediterranean in small boats, what does migration look like from the perspective of those based of the African continent? In this essay, I argue that Dakar‐based photographer Omar Victor Diop focuses his lens on the dignity of migrants, rather than the crisis of migration. In Project Diaspora: Self‐Portraits 2014, he reframes contemporary migration in a global historical context to show the contradictions of these movements across oceanic spaces. In Diaspora, Diop swaps out props for football paraphernalia to point to contradictions: so‐called migration success stories are rife with experiences of racism and exclusion, and important black historical figures can be omitted from historical accounts.
“The Red Kiss of the Past That Does Not Pass”: State Socialism in Albanian Visual Art Today
Authors: Kalo Sofia
Published: May 2017

This article examines memory work in recent Albanian visual art. My research has focused on the artwork of a generation of Albanian artists who have only lived their youth through the state socialist period and have now been turning to socialist subjects and symbolism, which they re‐present in novel and playful ways. Some of these artists offer nuanced reflections on the socialist past and its legacies, and others use the past to highlight what unsettles them about the present. These artworks further extend and complicate today's state‐sanctioned discourses and practices on socialism, thus making an important intervention about how the socialist experience is remembered in the present.
Comparative Evaluation of a Positive-Locking Antirotation Mechanism in the Design of Telescopic Nails for Patients in the Growth Phase
Authors: Lakomy Jens Rolf Franz , Vogt Bjoern , Gosheger Georg , Rödl Robert , Wähnert Dirk , Schiedel Frank
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study is to develop an intramedullary telescopic nail that—in contrast to the current standard—is rotationally stable and firmly anchored in the bone proximally and distally, without containing any extraosseous components that may alter the surrounding soft tissue. Three prototypes for a positive-locking adapted telescopic intramedullary nail (PLATIN) were developed. In a series of biomechanical tests, the prototypes were compared with two Fassier–Duval telescopic nails, which represent the clinical standard. Axial pressure, torsion, and four-point bending measurements were carried out in a materials testing machine, with the telescopic nails implanted into composite bone. Tests were conducted without failure and up to failure. Specifically, the force required for telescoping, as well as torsional stiffness and bending stiffness, was investigated. Taking into account differences that were inherent in the materials, the prototypes showed similar results in the four-point bending tests. In the pressure tests, the prototypes required greater forces than the Fassier–Duval nails. The torsional stiffness was between 0.020 N·m/deg and 0.135 N·m/deg, depending on the diameter of the nail. Positive-locking effect was achieved by a hexagonal shape of an inner rod part and a hexagonal form-fitting outer tube part. Proximal and distal locking of the telescopic nail in the bone was performed by usage of K-Wires in specific arranged drill holes at the end of both parts. Based on these satisfactory results, the future clinical application of positive-locking irrotational telescopic nails can be expected. Furthermore, redesign or development of new designs for existing telescopic nails is recommended.
Therapeutic Equipment for Brain-Hyperthermia Using Convective Spray Cooling
Authors: Mahmood Imran , Raza Ali
Published: May 2017

A new type of therapeutic equipment is designed herein, using concepts of convective heat transfer and spray cooling, to treat patients suffering from brain-hyperthermia. The equipment is aimed to provide emergency treatment in order to prevent disability or possible mortality because thermoregulatory system of the patients fails to maintain a homeostasis. The equipment uses noncontact method of forced convection, applied uniformly at body exteriors. The heat exchanger is designed to contain four independent pipe-sections with orifice openings around the body. The cool-air, maintained within ASHRAE’s thermal comfort bounds, is sprayed through the orifices. Design improvements have been made on the basis of image analysis of the flow. The boundary layer (BL) analysis has also been performed over a specially designed mannequin with induced hyperthermia characteristics. The testing indicates a decay of ∼6 °C in 280 min with a time constant of 2 h. Comparative to existing techniques, in addition to being a noncontact approach, the equipment shows better thermoregulatory performance along with a flexibility to accommodate different body contours.
Contribution to the knowledge of oribatid mites of the family Lohmanniidae (Acari, Oribatida) from South Africa
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Hugo-Coetzee Elizabeth A. , Khaustov Alexander A.
Published: May 2017

The genus Lohmannia (Oribatida, Lohmanniidae) is recorded for the first time in South Africa. A new species of Lohmannia is described from the nest of termites of the Franklin Game Reserve on Naval Hill, Bloemfontein, based on the adult and tritonymphal instar. Lohmannia (Lohmannia) lerallana sp. nov. differs from L. (Lohmannia) turcmenica Bulanova-Zachvatkina, 1960 by the presence of distinct macrofoveolate ornamentation on the body, setiform subcapitular setae m1 and long lateral and posterior notogastral setae. A supplementary description of Papillacarus angulatus Wallwork, 1962 is presented based on the South African specimens. Information on distribution and ecology of known lohmanniids in South Africa is provided.
Regular chondrocyte spacing is a potential cause for coherent ultrasound backscatter in human articular cartilage
Authors: Rohrbach Daniel , Inkinen Satu I. , Zatloukalová Jana , Kadow-Romacker Anke , Joukainen Antti , Malo Markus K. , Mamou Jonathan , Töyräs Juha , Raum Kay
Published: May 2017

The potential of quantitative ultrasound (QUS) to assess the regular cellular spacing in the superficial cartilage zones was investigated experimentally and numerically. Nine osteochondral samples, extracted from two human cadaver knee joints, were measured using a 50-MHz ultrasound scanning device and evaluated using Mankin score. Simulated backscattered power spectra from models with an idealized cell alignment exhibited a pronounced frequency peak. From the peak, cell spacing in the range between 15 and 40 μm between cell layers was detected with an average error of 0.2 μm. The mean QUS-based cell spacing was 28.3 ± 5.3 μm. Strong correlation (R2 = 0.59, p ≤ 0.001) between spacing estimates from light microscopy (LM) and QUS was found for samples with Mankin score ≤3. For higher scores, QUS-based spacing was significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) compared to LM-based spacing. QUS-based spacing estimates together with other QUS parameters may serve as future biomarkers for detecting early signs of osteoarthrosis.
Prosodic exaggeration within infant-directed speech: Consequences for vowel learnability
Authors: Adriaans Frans , Swingley Daniel
Published: May 2017

Perceptual experiments with infants show that they adapt their perception of speech sounds toward the categories of the native language. How do infants learn these categories? For the most part, acoustic analyses of natural infant-directed speech have suggested that phonetic categories are not presented to learners as separable clusters of sounds in acoustic space. As a step toward explaining how infants begin to solve this problem, the current study proposes that the exaggerated prosody characteristic of infant-directed speech may highlight for infants certain speech-sound tokens that collectively form more readily identifiable categories. A database is presented, containing vowel measurements in a large sample of natural American English infant-directed speech. Analyses of the vowel space show that prosodic exaggeration in infant-directed speech has the potential to support distributional vowel learning by providing the learner with a subset of “high-quality” tokens that infants might attend to preferentially. Categorization models trained on prosodically exaggerated tokens outperformed models that were trained on tokens that were not exaggerated. Though focusing on more prominent, exaggerated tokens does not provide a solution to the categorization problem, it would make it easier to solve.
Compatibilization mechanism induced by organoclay in PMMA/PS blends
Authors: Genoyer Julie , Yee Marcio , Soulestin Jérémie , Demarquette Nicole
Published: May 2017

In this work, the effect of adding organoclay (Cloisite 20A) to a poly(methyl metacrylate) (PMMA)/polystyrene (PS) blend was evaluated in order to understand the compatibilization mechanism taking place. The blend morphology was quantified using micrographs obtained by scanning electron microscopy and observed by transmission electron microscopy. The state of dispersion of the clay was studied using small angle X-ray scattering and wide angle X-ray scattering and by applying the Carreau-Yasuda with a yield stress model to small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS) data. Morphological analyses revealed that the clay was intercalated, that its addition resulted in a decrease in the size of the dispersed phase and that it was preferentially located at the interface, except in the case of saturated interfaces, in which case the remaining clay was dispersed in PMMA. By applying the simplified Palierne model to SAOS experiments, the interfacial tension between the polymers forming the blend was inferred and shown to decrease upon addition of clay. The relaxation spectra inferred from the SAOS data, using the Honerkamp and Weese method, revealed four relaxation times: Relaxation of PMMA and PS chains, relaxation of the droplet shape, as well as an additional relaxation phenomenon attributed to the Marangoni stress. Although Marangoni stresses have already been studied in the case of blends compatibilized by block copolymers, this is the first time that it has been evidenced in the case of a clay as compatibilizer.
New crop pest takes Africa at lightning speed
Authors: Stokstad Erik
Published: May 2017

The fall armyworm has invaded more than 20 sub-Saharan countries
A climate policy pathway for near- and long-term benefits
Authors: Shindell D. , Borgford-Parnell N. , Brauer M. , Haines A. , Kuylenstierna J. C. I. , Leonard S. A. , Ramanathan V. , Ravishankara A. , Amann M. , Srivastava L.
Published: May 2017

Climate actions can advance sustainable development
Selective anaerobic oxidation of methane enables direct synthesis of methanol
Authors: Sushkevich Vitaly L. , Palagin Dennis , Ranocchiari Marco , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: May 2017

A two-step protocol oxidizes methane to methanol using a copper zeolite that is reoxidized by water.
Detection of Emerging Vaccine-Related Polioviruses by Deep Sequencing
Authors: Sahoo Malaya K. , Holubar Marisa , Huang ChunHong , Mohamed-Hadley Alisha , Liu Yuanyuan , Waggoner Jesse J. , Troy Stephanie B. , Garcia-Garcia Lourdes , Ferreyra-Reyes Leticia , Maldonado Yvonne , Pinsky Benjamin A.
Published: May 2017

Oral poliovirus vaccine can mutate to regain neurovirulence. To date, evaluation of these mutations has been performed primarily on culture-enriched isolates by using conventional Sanger sequencing. We therefore developed a culture-independent, deep-sequencing method targeting the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) and P1 genomic region to characterize vaccine-related poliovirus variants. Error analysis of the deep-sequencing method demonstrated reliable detection of poliovirus mutations at levels of <1%, depending on read depth. Sequencing of viral nucleic acids from the stool of vaccinated, asymptomatic children and their close contacts collected during a prospective cohort study in Veracruz, Mexico, revealed no vaccine-derived polioviruses. This was expected given that the longest duration between sequenced sample collection and the end of the most recent national immunization week was 66 days. However, we identified many low-level variants (<5%) distributed across the 5′ UTR and P1 genomic region in all three Sabin serotypes, as well as vaccine-related viruses with multiple canonical mutations associated with phenotypic reversion present at high levels (>90%). These results suggest that monitoring emerging vaccine-related poliovirus variants by deep sequencing may aid in the poliovirus endgame and efforts to ensure global polio eradication.
Aedes aegypti Piwi4 Is a Noncanonical PIWI Protein Involved in Antiviral Responses
Authors: Varjak Margus , Maringer Kevin , Watson Mick , Sreenu Vattipally B. , Fredericks Anthony C. , Pondeville Emilie , Donald Claire L. , Sterk Jelle , Kean Joy , Vazeille Marie , Failloux Anna-Bella , Kohl Alain , Schnettler Esther
Published: May 2017

Mosquitoes transmit several pathogenic viruses, for example, the chikungunya and Zika viruses. In mosquito cells, virus replication intermediates in the form of double-stranded RNA are cleaved by Dcr2 into 21-nucleotide-long siRNAs, which in turn are used by Ago2 to target the virus genome. A different class of virus-derived small RNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), have also been found in infected insect cells. These piRNAs are longer and are produced in a Dcr2-independent manner. The only known antiviral protein in the PIWI family is Piwi4, which is not involved in piRNA production. It is associated with key proteins of the siRNA and piRNA pathways, although its antiviral function is independent of their actions.
Emergency splenectomy postelective colonoscopy
Authors: Cullinane Carolyn , Gudyma Jaroslaw , McArdle Gerarde
Published: May 2017

Colonoscopy is the gold standard for investigation of colorectal carcinoma and inflammatory bowel disease. Splenic injury is a rare but potentially fatal complication of colonoscopy. The present case study outlines the early clinical presentation and rapid deterioration of a patient with a splenic injury after an elective colonoscopy. A 70-year-old female underwent a colonoscopy for investigation of altered bowel habit. The procedure was documented as difficult due to the presence of ‘stiff loopy colon’. In recovery, patient’s condition deteriorated and she was moved to the ward for further assessment. She gradually became haemodynamically unstable and displayed signs of peritoneal irritation. Initial attempts of fluid resuscitation failed to improve patient’s clinical condition. Further testing revealed a significant drop in haemoglobin and CT confirmed the diagnosis of a splenic rupture. She underwent an emergency splenectomy that evening. Postoperatively she was managed in the high dependency unit.
Helcococcus kunziiprosthetic valve endocarditis secondary to lower extremity cellulitis
Authors: Farid Saira , Miranda William , Maleszewski Joseph , Sohail Muhammad Rizwan
Published: May 2017

An 88-year-old man with history of bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement was hospitalised with fever, chills, malaise and right lower extremity cellulitis. Laboratory investigations revealed leucocytosis and blood cultures grewHelcococcus kunzii. Although transoesophageal echocardiography was negative for endocarditis, the patient was treated with 4 week of intravenous ceftriaxone. However, he was readmitted 6 weeks later with symptoms of fever, chills and hypoxia in setting of recurrentH. kunziibacteraemia. A repeat transoesophageal echocardiogram revealed a mobile mass on bioprosthetic aortic valve, severe perivalvular insufficiency with pseudoaneurysm formation, and severe native mitral and tricuspid valve regurgitation. Cardiothoracic surgery was consulted and the patient underwent replacement of aortic valve and aortic root, and tricuspid and mitral valve repairs. Histological examination of excised bioprosthetic aortic valve revealed active endocarditis with cocci identified on silver stain. Patient was successfully treated with 4-week course of intravenous ceftriaxone and was doing well at 2-year follow-up.
Median philtrum sinus: a rare presentation and review of management options
Authors: Kwok Matthew Ming Kei , Paddle Paul
Published: May 2017

Nasal dermoids are rare congenital abnormalities, and there is only one previously reported case of a philtrum sinus tract extending to the skull base. A 2-month-old boy was presented with an incidental finding of a median philtrum sinus with no infective features and no other abnormal clinical findings. MRI demonstrated a sinus tract extending from the philtrum to the crista galli. On multidisciplinary review, a conservative approach was taken due to the asymptomatic nature of the patient. Given the rarity of nasal dermoids, diagnosis requires precise clinical examination and MRI to identify the extent of the tract. Management options require a multidisciplinary case-specific approach and include non-surgical as well as surgical approaches.
Compensating for loss: running on one tibialis anterior
Authors: Dimock Richard A C , Dawe Edward John Christopher , Aiyenuro Olusegun
Published: May 2017

Rupture of the tibialis anterior (TA) tendon is rare and may be either traumatic or spontaneous. TA is the main ankle dorsiflexor, providing 80% of the power, as well as contributing to inversion of the foot. We describe a case of an 84-year-old male who was incidentally diagnosed with absence of his left TA at age 46 while preparing for his first-ever marathon. There was no history of specific injury to this tendon. He subsequently went on to lead an active sporting life, completing over 20 marathons with a best time of 3 hours 12 min.
Impact of two-step urine culture ordering in the emergency department: a time series analysis
Authors: Stagg Amanda , Lutz Haydon , Kirpalaney Sakshi , Matelski John Justin , Kaufman Adam , Leis Jerome , McCready Janine , Powis Jeff
Published: May 2017

Background

Despite evidence against the use of antimicrobials for asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB), they are frequently prescribed leading to unnecessary adverse events. Prior studies have shown that reducing unnecessary urine cultures (UCs) results in decreased antimicrobial utilisation for ASB. Emergency departments (EDs) submit the largest volume of UCs, yet efforts to limit overordering in this patient setting have had limited success.

Methods

A new two-step model of care for urine collection, using a novel UC collection container, was implemented in the ED of a large community hospital. The collection system contains a preservative allowing UCs to be held at room temperature for up to 48 hours before processing. UCs were collected by front-line staff, but only processed in the microbiology lab if requested by ED physicians after clinical assessment.

Results

Following implementation there was a decrease in the percentage of weekly ED visits associated with a processed UC (5.97% vs 4.68%, p<0.001), a decrease in the percentage of monthly ED visits requiring a callback for positive urine culture (1.84% to 1.12%, p<0.001) and a decrease in antimicrobial prescriptions for urinary indication among admitted patients (20.6% to 10.9%, p<0.01). There was a false omission rate of 1.35% (95% CI 0.7% to 2.2%), yet no identified cases of untreated urinary tract infection (UTI), or significant change in repeat ED visits or ED length of stay.

Conclusions

Changing to two-step urine culture ordering in the ED resulted in a decrease in UCs processed, callbacks for positive results and antimicrobial use without evidence of untreated UTIs. This model of care has strong potential to improve the use of hospital resources while minimising detection and inappropriate treatment of ASB.
Marine Search-and-Recovery Operation of Scientific Balloons in Japan
Authors: Shoji Y. , Fuke H. , Hamada K. , Iijima I. , Ikeda C. , Izutsu N. , Kakehashi Y. , Matsuzaka Y. , Sato T. , Tamura M. , Yoshida T.
Published: May 2017

Stratospheric balloons have been used worldwide for more than half a century for various scientific missions. However such balloon operations are facing safety issues due to the reduction in appropriate sites for landing. Instead of landing on the ground, landing and recovering on the sea can be a radical solution to this problem. Marine search-and-recovery operations for balloons are not conducted commonly; however, such the operation has been uniquely developed in Japan for more than 40 years. This study describes the methodology for such search-and-recovery of balloons and gondolas through examination of multiple case studies.
Zircon O- and Hf-isotope constraints on the genesis and tectonic significance of Permian magmatism in Patagonia
Authors: Castillo Paula , Fanning C. Mark , Pankhurst Robert J. , Hervé Francisco , Rapela CarlosW.
Published: May 2017

The genesis of Permian magmatism in southern South America is actively debated, particularly in relation to the origin of Patagonia. U–Pb zircon ages of
c.
255 Ma for igneous rocks from the basement of Tierra del Fuego are the first evidence for southerly prolongation of this magmatism. Zircon in these rocks has εHf
t
values <−1 and δ
18
O > 7.4‰, indicating recycling of Cambrian rocks. Permian granites in the north of the North Patagonian Massif record mantle-like δ
18
O magmatic input at
c.
280 and 255 Ma, but reworking of upper crust between these two events, paralleling the recognized deformational history. In northwestern Patagonia, Early Permian granitic rocks have zircon with εHf
t
values ranging from +0.1 to −7.2, and δ
18
O > 6.2‰, suggesting continuity of the Permian magmatic belt along the western margin of South America farther north. Comparison with a sample from the Sierra de la Ventana suggests melting of similar crust on both sides of the Patagonia–South American hypothetical suture. These features, together with other geological considerations, are consistent with an autochthonous or parautochthonous origin of northern Patagonia and connection between southern Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula in late Palaeozoic time.

Supplementary material:
U–Pb SHRIMP, O and Hf analytical data are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3768710
Structure and evolution of the Bukhara-Khiva region during the Mesozoic: the northern margin of the Amu-Darya Basin (southern Uzbekistan)
Authors: Mordvintsev Dmitriy , Barrier Eric , Brunet Marie-Françoise , Blanpied Christian , Sidorova Irina
Published: May 2017

The Bukhara-Khiva region forms the northern margin of the Mesozoic Amu-Darya Basin. We reconstructed several cross-sections across this margin from subsurface data. The objectives included examining the structure of the Bukhara and Chardzhou steps and determining the tectonic–sedimentary evolution of the basin during the Jurassic. Subsequent to the Cimmerian collision in the Middle Triassic, an extensional event controlled the deposition of the Early–Middle Jurassic siliciclastic succession in the Bukhara-Khiva region. The main Late Palaeozoic inherited structures were reactivated as normal faults during this period. Continental coarse-grained siliciclastic sediments are mainly confined to the basal Lower Jurassic section, probably Pliensbachian–Toarcian in age, whereas marine siliciclastic sediments occur in the early Late Bajocian. In the Early–Middle Jurassic the Bukhara and Chardzhou steps were predominantly sourced by areas of relief, the remains of Late Palaeozoic orogens located to the north. The rate of extension significantly declined during the Middle Callovian–Kimmeridgian period. Deposition of the overlying Lower Cretaceous continental red-coloured clastic sediments was related to the interaction of basin subsidence, a fall in eustatic sea-level and sediment supply. Subsequent marine transgression in the Late Barremian, partially related to broad thermal subsidence in the Amu-Darya Basin, resulted in the deposition of an extensive Late Cretaceous clay–marl succession.
Well-data-based discrete fracture and matrix modelling and flow-based upscaling of multilayer carbonate reservoir horizons
Authors: Milliotte Caroline , Jonoud Sima , Wennberg Ole Petter , Matthäi Stephan K. , Jurkiw Alexandra , Mosser Lukas
Published: May 2017

Discrete fracture and matrix (DFM) homogenization, simultaneously capturing reservoir layers and contained fractures, is an alternative to discrete fracture network (DFN) upscaling. Here, the DFM approach was applied to a fractured carbonate reservoir. Honouring geostatistical data from well logs, near-well multilayer reservoir models were constructed and analysed. Fracture aperture variations were modelled with a new semi-analytical model including a special treatment of layer-restricted fractures. Important results concern both pre-processing of stochastically generated DFMs for finite-element meshing, and the ensemble permeability values obtained by numerical homogenization of single v. multilayer models, respectively. Upscaling by volume averaging of vertically stacked single-layer DFMs results only in a fraction of the equivalent horizontal permeability that is obtained by homogenization of the multilayer models. Inspection of the flow patterns shows that this discrepancy arises because many fractures contact each other at layer boundaries fostering cross-flow. This effect is further enhanced where fractures intersect multiple layers. Compared to earlier DFN models for this reservoir, the DFM-derived fracture and matrix ensemble permeabilities are up to four times higher, highlighting how important it is to include the rock matrix into equivalent permeability calculations.
Design Approaches to Myocardial and Vascular Tissue Engineering
Authors: Akintewe Olukemi O. , Roberts Erin G. , Rim Nae-Gyune , Ferguson Michael A.H. , Wong Joyce Y.
Published: May 2017

Engineered tissues represent an increasingly promising therapeutic approach for correcting structural defects and promoting tissue regeneration in cardiovascular diseases. One of the challenges associated with this approach has been the necessity for the replacement tissue to promote sufficient vascularization to maintain functionality after implantation. This review highlights a number of promising prevascularization design approaches for introducing vasculature into engineered tissues. Although we focus on encouraging blood vessel formation within myocardial implants, we also discuss techniques developed for other tissues that could eventually become relevant to engineered cardiac tissues. Because the ultimate solution to engineered tissue vascularization will require collaboration between wide-ranging disciplines such as developmental biology, tissue engineering, and computational modeling, we explore contributions from each field.
Graduate Education and Social Stratification
Authors: Posselt Julie R. , Grodsky Eric
Published: May 2017

Graduate and professional education play an increasingly important role in economic inequality and elite formation in the United States, but sociologists have not subjected stratification in and through graduate education to the same level of scrutiny recently applied to undergraduate and subbaccalaureate education. In this review, we discuss how prominent stratification theories might be extended to studies of the role of graduate and professional education, and we review research about stratification at junctures along student pathways into and through postbaccalaureate education to the labor market. Especially in doctoral and professional education, we find persistent stratification, including pronounced educational inheritance and disparities in participation and degree attainment by race/ethnicity and gender. We propose future directions for inquiry, highlighting unanswered questions and conceptual issues concerning how the field of and pathways through postbaccalaureate education contribute to social stratification.
Neoadjuvant Ifosfamide and Epirubicin in the Treatment of Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors
Authors: Hirbe Angela C. , Cosper Pippa F. , Dahiya Sonika , Van Tine Brian A.
Published: May 2017

Background and Objectives. Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) are aggressive soft tissue sarcomas with poor overall survival. Response to chemotherapy has been debated for these tumors. Methods. We performed a retrospective analysis of the patients at our institution with a biopsy-proven diagnosis of MPNST that underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to surgery. Results. We retrospectively identified five patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy with epirubicin and ifosfamide that demonstrated a 30% reduction in tumor growth and a 60% response rate by RECIST criteria. Additionally, a metabolic response was observed in all three patients who received serial PET scans during neoadjuvant treatment. The clinical benefit rate, which includes stable disease, was 100%. Conclusions. Our data suggest that MPNSTs do respond to epirubicin and ifosfamide based chemotherapy and prospective studies are warranted to further define the clinical benefit.
Experimental Research on Seismic Performance of a New-Type of R/C Beam-Column Joints with End Plates
Authors: Li Shufeng , Li Qingning , Jiang Haotian , Zhang Hao , Zhang Lizhong
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a new-type of fabricated beam-column connections with end plates. The joint details are as follows: the concrete beams are connected to column by end plates and six high strength long bolts passing through the core area. In addition, in order to increase the stiffness and shear strength, stirrups are replaced by the steel plate hoop in the core zone. To examine the fail behavior of the fabricated beam-column connection specimens, a quasi-static test is conducted for nine full-scale models to obtain the hysteresis curves, skeleton curves, ductility, energy dissipation capacity, and other seismic indicators. The experimental results show that all specimens failed in bending in a malleable way with a beam plastic hinge and the hysteresis curves are excellently plump for the end plate connections. From the seismic indexes, the fabricated connection specimens exhibit better seismic performance, which can provide reference for the application of prefabricated frame structure in the earthquake area.
The Repeated Administration of Resveratrol Has Measurable Effects on Circulating T‐Cell Subsets in Humans
Authors: Espinoza J. Luis , Trung Ly Quoc , Inaoka Pleiades T. , Yamada Kayoko , An Dao T. , Mizuno Shohei , Nakao Shinji , Takami Akiyoshi
Published: May 2017

Preclinical studies have shown that resveratrol exerts immunomodulatory effects with potential clinical value in the amelioration of autoimmune disorders and cancer prevention; however, little is known about the in vivo effects of this naturally occurring polyphenol on human immune cells. We assessed the effects of repeated doses of resveratrol (1000 mg/day for 28 days) on circulating immune cells in healthy Japanese individuals. Resveratrol was safe and well tolerated and was associated with significant increases in the numbers of circulating γδ T cells and regulatory T cells and resulted in small, yet significant, decreases in the plasma levels of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF‐α and MCP‐1 and a significant increase in the plasma antioxidant activity compared with the corresponding antioxidant baseline activity and with that in four control individuals. In in vitro studies, resveratrol significantly improved the growth of γδ T cells and regulatory T cells. These findings demonstrate that resveratrol has some clear biological effects on human circulating immune cells. Further studies are necessary to interpret the long‐term immunological changes associated with resveratrol treatment.
Hydrothermal Dissolution of Deeply Buried Cambrian Dolomite Rocks and Porosity Generation: Integrated with Geological Studies and Reactive Transport Modeling in the Tarim Basin, China
Authors: Wei Wenwen , Chen Daizhao , Qing Hairuo , Qian Yixiong
Published: May 2017

The burial dissolution of carbonate rocks has long been an interesting topic of reservoir geologists. Integrated with geological studies and reactive transport modeling, this study investigated the Cambrian dolomites that were buried at depths up to 8408 m and still preserved a large amount of unfilled dissolution vugs from the borehole TS1 in the northern Tarim Basin. Studies indicate that these vugs were formed in association with fault-channeled hydrothermal fluids from greater depth through “retrograde dissolution” as the fluid temperature dropped during upward migration. The reactive transport modeling results suggest an important control of the vertical permeability of wall-rock on fluid and temperature patterns which, in turn, would control the spatial distribution of dissolving-originated porosity. The hydrothermal dissolution mainly occurred in dolomite wall-rocks with higher vertical permeability (extensive development of tensional fractures and connected pore spaces), producing additional dissolved porosity there during deep burial. This study implicates the importance of multidisciplinary approaches for understanding the burial/hydrothermal dissolution of dolomite rocks and predicting favourable deep/ultradeep carbonate reservoirs.
Identification of a Novel ITGαvβ6-Binding Peptide Using Protein Separation and Phage Display
Authors: Altmann Annette , Sauter Max , Roesch Saskia , Mier Walter , Warta Rolf , Debus Jürgen , Dyckhoff Gerhard , Herold-Mende Christel , Haberkorn Uwe
Published: May 2017

Purpose: Targeted therapies are regarded as promising approaches to increase 5-year survival rate of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients.

Experimental design: For the selection of carcinoma-specific peptides membrane proteome of HNO97 tumor cells fractionated by the ProteomeLab PF2D system and corresponding HNO97 cells were deployed for an alternating biopanning using a sunflower trypsin inhibitor1–based phage display (SFTI8Ph) library. Stability, binding properties and affinity of novel candidates were assessed in vitro using radio-HPLC, binding experiments and surface plasmon resonance assay (SPR), respectively. Subsequently, the affinity of the peptide was verified in situ by using peptide histochemistry, in vitro using flow cytometry, and in vivo by positron emissions tomography (PET/CT).

Results: We identified a novel ITGαvβ6 binding peptide (SFITGv6) containing the amino acid sequence FRGDLMQL. SFITGv6 provides stability over a period of 24 hours and demonstrates high affinity (KD = 14.8 nmol/L) for ITGαvβ6. In HNO97 cells, a maximal uptake and internalization of up to 37.3% and 37.5%, respectively, was measured. Small-animal PET imaging and biodistribution studies of HNO97 xenografted Balb/c nu/nu mice showed tumor-specific accumulation of 68Ga- and 177Lu-labeled DOTA-SFITGv6, respectively, 30 to 60 minutes after injection. Moreover, peptide histochemistry revealed a strong and homogenous binding of biotin-labeled SFITGv6 to HNSCC tumors and breast- and lung cancer-derived brain metastases. Finally, first PET/CT scans of HNSCC and NSCLC patients displayed SFITGv6 accumulation specifically in tumors, but not in inflammatory lesions.

Conclusions: Thus, SFITGv6 represents a novel powerful tracer for imaging and possibly for endoradiotherapy of ITGαvβ6-positive carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res; 23(15); 4170–80. ©2017 AACR.
Autophagy Activation by Rapamycin Before Hypoxia-Reoxygenation Reduces Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Alveolar Epithelial Cells
Authors: Fan Tao , Chen Lei , Huang Zhixin , Wang Wei , Zhang Boyou , Xu Yao , Mao Zhangfan , Hu Hao , Geng Qing
Published: May 2017

Background: To determine potential effects of autophagy activation on hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) induced damage of a rat alveolar epithelial cell line. Methods: CCL149 cells were subjected to autophagy agonist (rapamycin, Rap), autophagy inhibitor (3-methyladenine, 3-MA) or PBS for 1 h before H/R treatment for 2 h, 4 h and 6 h. The optimal concentration of Rap (150 nM, 200 nM and 250 nM) or 3-MA (5 mM, 10 mM and 15 mM) was obtained from MTT assay. Autophagy was determined by fluorescence microscopy of eRFP-LC3 positive cells, transmission electron microscopy of autophagosome, western blot of LC3, AMPK, Beclin-1, HDAC6 and p62 proteins. Endoplasmatic reticulum stress was indicated by detecting expressions of BIP, XBP-1 and CHOP via western blot. Results: Rap at concentration of 250 nM before H/R increased the autophagy formation with more eRFP-LC3 positive cells and higher expressions of LC3-II, Beclin-1, HDAC6 and p62, but lower expressions of BIP, XBP-1 and CHOP in H/R treated CCL149. This effect seemed to be still obvious after H/R exposure for 6 h. The contrary results were obtained by treatment with 5 mM 3-MA. Conclusion: Rap might be a promising agent before mechanical ventilation or reperfusion to prevent re-damage in hypoxia related lung diseases.
Heat Acclimation Regulates the Autophagy-Lysosome Function to Protect Against Heat Stroke-Induced Brain Injury in Mice
Authors: Yi Junfeng , He Genlin , Yang Ju , Luo Zhen , Yang Xuesen , Luo Xue
Published: May 2017

Background/Aims: The mechanisms underlying the protective role of heat acclimation (HA) in heat stroke (HS)-induced brain injury are still unclear. The autophagy-lysosome pathway is known to pay an important role in protecting stressed or diseased cells from death. Nevertheless, whether autophagy and lysosomes are involved in HA-mediated neuroprotection following HS exposure remains unclear. Methods: The protective effects of HA were assessed by rectal temperature, hematoxylin-eosin staining, transmission electron microscopic analysis, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling staining, and Fluoro Jade B staining, after mice were subjected to HS. The effects of HA on autophagy and lysosomes were assessed in the presence of the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3MA). Autophagy and lysosome-associated proteins were analysed by Western blotting. Results: We found that HA protected against HS-induced death and brain injury. HS can robustly induce autophagy and impair lysosome function. HA pre-conditioning significantly modulated the autophagy level, and improved lysosome function in HS mice. Furthermore, 3MA completely abolished the neuroprotective effect of HA on HS. Conclusion: HS may induce brain injury through lysosomal dysfunction and impaired autophagic flux. HA protected against HS-induced brain injury via a mechanism involving the autophagy-lysosome pathway.
Expression Changes of Long Noncoding RNA in the Process of Endothelial Cell Activation
Authors: Zhou Min , Ding Wen-Jin , Chen Ying-Wei , Shen Feng , Zeng Jun-Yi , Qu Chun-Ying , Wei Yun-Feng , Xu Lei-Ming
Published: May 2017

Background: Endothelial cells have been shown to be in response to a variety of local and systemic stimuli, and are able to transition between quiescent and activated states. Endothelial cell activation is critical for the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular diseases. However, the expression changes of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are still unknown in the process of endothelial cell activation. Thus, this study was aimed to investigate expression changes of lncRNA before and after endothelial cell activation. Materials and Methods: In an experimental model of peripheral venous congestion, endothelial cells were activated and analyzed with Affymetrix HG-U133 plus2.0 microarray. We analyzed these microarray data and reannotated the microarray probes for lncRNA. Results: According to the definition of absolute fold change>2 and p value <0.05, 27 differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified and only 1 lncRNA transcript, ENST00000509256 was down-regualted. Co-expression network of lncRNA and mRNA were constructed to predict function of the dysregulated lncRNA. Gene set enrichment analyses suggested that these ENST00000509256 was associated with many important functions, such as cell-cell signaling and regulation of cell differentiation. Conclusion: Many lncRNAs are dysregulated upon endothelial cell activation and further experiments are needed to identify the potential biological functions of these lncRNAs.
The Role of Hippocampal Structural Synaptic Plasticity in Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Improve Cognitive Function in Male SAMP8 Mice
Authors: Ma Jiang , Wang Jinhua , Lv Chaonan , Pang Jingjuan , Han Bing , Wang Mingwei , Gen Yuan
Published: May 2017

Background: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been used to improve cognitive function, but the stimulation protocols are variable and the underlying mechanism is unclear. Therefore, we intend to examine whether 5Hz rTMS with 30% maximum output could improve cognitive functions in senescence-accelerated-prone mouse 8 (SAMP8) through changing synaptic plasticity. Methods: SAMP8 and senescence-accelerated-prone mouse/resistant 1 (SAMR1) (7-month old male) were randomly divided into 3 groups: SMAP8 rTMS group (P8-rTMS), SMAP8 sham-rTMS group (P8-sham), and SAMR1 sham-rTMS group (R1-sham). The P8-rTMS group was treated daily with 5Hz rTMS with 30% maximum output for 14 consecutive days, whereas the other two groups were controls without rTMS stimulation. Morris water maze (MWM) experiment was performed after rTMS or sham treatment to assess the effect of rTMS on cognitive function. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assays were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of presynaptic Synapsin (SYN) and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) in the hippocampus of these mice. Results: The mean escape latency of the P8-rTMS group was significantly shorter than that of the P8-sham group. The number of platform crossings of the P8-rTMS group was significantly higher than that of the P8-sham group. rTMS significantly upregulated the protein and mRNA expression of SYN and PSD95 in the hippocampus of p8-rTMS mice compared to those of P8 sham mice. Conclusion: 5Hz rTMS with 30% maximum output enhances learning and memory in the SAMP8 mice. This improvement may be associated with the increased expression of synaptic structure proteins SYN and PSD95 in the hippocampus.
Acute Coronary Stent Thrombosis in Modern Era: Etiology, Treatment, and Prognosis
Authors: Ge Junhua , Yu Haichu , Li Jian
Published: May 2017

Acute stent thrombosis (AST) is a rare but life-threatening complication of coronary artery stenting. AST remains a challenging task for cardiologists, despite the application of modern procedural techniques and dual-antiplatelet therapy strategies as well as improved understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. This review focuses on the prevalence, risk factors, prognosis, multiple potential underlying pathogenesis, knowledge gaps, and recommends diagnosis and individualized management strategies of AST.
Enlarging Pigmented Eyelid Mass Associated with Remote Pencil Trauma
Authors: Phelps Paul O. , Carlson J. Andrew , Meyer Dale R.
Published: May 2017

The authors present a case of a gradually enlarging pigmented mass of the upper eyelid and anterior orbit that was discovered to be the graphite tip of a pencil surrounded by macrophages bearing graphite and fibrous tissue. A 25-year-old woman with no medical history presented with a gradually enlarging pigmented lesion of her left upper eyelid. She denied any history of previous skin cancer, trauma, or previous surgery. A biopsy was performed. This revealed an encapsulated grayish, pigmented mass within the medial portion of the left upper eyelid and anterior orbit. Within the pigmented cocoon, the graphite core of a pencil (“pencil lead”) was identified. Histopathology demonstrated granulomatous inflammation with fibrosis and macrophages.