bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prolongation of SMAP to Spatiotemporally Seamless Coverage of Continental U.S. Using a Deep Learning Neural Network
Authors: Fang Kuai , Shen Chaopeng , Kifer Daniel , Yang Xiao
Published: October 2017

The Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission has delivered valuable sensing of surface soil moisture since 2015. However, it has a short time span and irregular revisit schedules. Utilizing a state‐of‐the‐art time series deep learning neural network, Long Short‐Term Memory (LSTM), we created a system that predicts SMAP level‐3 moisture product with atmospheric forcings, model‐simulated moisture, and static physiographic attributes as inputs. The system removes most of the bias with model simulations and improves predicted moisture climatology, achieving small test root‐mean‐square errors (<0.035) and high‐correlation coefficients >0.87 for over 75% of Continental United States, including the forested southeast. As the first application of LSTM in hydrology, we show the proposed network avoids overfitting and is robust for both temporal and spatial extrapolation tests. LSTM generalizes well across regions with distinct climates and environmental settings. With high fidelity to SMAP, LSTM shows great potential for hindcasting, data assimilation, and weather forecasting.
Classification of Solar Wind With Machine Learning
Authors: Camporeale Enrico , Carè Algo , Borovsky Joseph E.
Published: October 2017

We present a four‐category classification algorithm for the solar wind, based on Gaussian Process. The four categories are the ones previously adopted in Xu and Borovsky (2015): ejecta, coronal hole origin plasma, streamer belt origin plasma, and sector reversal origin plasma. The algorithm is trained and tested on a labeled portion of the OMNI data set. It uses seven inputs: the solar wind speed Vsw, the temperature standard deviation σT, the sunspot number R, the F10.7 index, the Alfven speed vA, the proton specific entropy Sp, and the proton temperature Tp compared to a velocity‐dependent expected temperature. The output of the Gaussian Process classifier is a four‐element vector containing the probabilities that an event (one reading from the hourly averaged OMNI database) belongs to each category. The probabilistic nature of the prediction allows for a more informative and flexible interpretation of the results, for instance, being able to classify events as “undecided.” The new method has a median accuracy larger than 90% for all categories, even using a small set of data for training. The Receiver Operating Characteristic curve and the reliability diagram also demonstrate the excellent quality of this new method. Finally, we use the algorithm to classify a large portion of the OMNI data set, and we present for the first time transition probabilities between different solar wind categories. Such probabilities represent the “climatological” statistics that determine the solar wind baseline.
Ionospheric Response to 22–23 June 2015 Storm as Investigated Using Ground‐Based Ionosondes and GPS Receivers Over India
Authors: Singh Ram , Sripathi S.
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we present response of equatorial and low‐latitude ionosphere to 22/23 June 2015 geomagnetic storm using a chain of ground‐based ionosondes located at Tirunelveli (8.73°N,77.70°E; geomagnetic latitude: 0.32°N), Hyderabad (17.36°N, 78.47°E; geomagnetic latitude: 8.76°N), and Allahabad (25.45°N, 81.85°E; geomagnetic latitude: 16.5°N) along with a chain of GPS receivers. Uniqueness of this storm is that in contrast to the equatorial plasma bubbles that were detected in the European sector, we see suppression of plasma bubbles in the Indian sector. The observations suggest that westward penetration electric field during local midnight caused abrupt decrease of virtual height (h'F (km)) to ~200 km and suppressed plasma bubbles due to undershielding. Later, the layer increased to 500 km simultaneously due to overshielding effect. On 23 June, we observed negative storm in the Northern Hemisphere while positive storm in the Southern Hemisphere. In addition, absence of equatorial Es layers at Tirunelveli and presence of F3 layer at Tirunelveli/Hyderabad seem to be associated with equatorial electrojet (EEJ)/counter electrojet (CEJ) variations. However, on 24 June, we observed strong negative storm effects at Allahabad/Hyderabad, while positive storm effect at Tirunelveli. Simultaneous enhancement of h'F (km) at all three ionosonde stations at 20:30 UT on 23 June during recovery phase suggest eastward disturbance dynamo (DD) electric field that caused presunrise spread F at Hyderabad/Allahabad but void of spread F at Tirunelveli suggesting its midlatitude origin. Periodogram analysis of foF2 and h'F (km) in the present analysis suggest the presence of shorter periods (~< 2 h) associated with prompt penetration (PP) electric fields while larger periods (>2 h) associated with DD electric field/winds.
Front‐Eddy Influence on Water Column Properties, Phytoplankton Community Structure, and Cross‐Shelf Exchange of Diatom Taxa in the Shelf‐Slope Area off Concepción (∼36–37°S)
Authors: Morales Carmen E. , Anabalón Valeria , Bento Joaquim P. , Hormazabal Samuel , Cornejo Marcela , Correa‐Ramírez Marco A. , Silva Nelson
Published: October 2017

In eastern boundary current systems (EBCSs), submesoscale to mesocale variability contributes to cross‐shore exchanges of water properties, nutrients, and plankton. Data from a short‐term summer survey and satellite time series (January–February 2014) were used to characterize submesoscale variability in oceanographic conditions and phytoplankton distribution across the coastal upwelling and coastal transition zones north of Punta Lavapié, and to explore cross‐shelf exchanges of diatom taxa. A thermohaline front (FRN‐1) flanked by a mesoscale anticyclonic intrathermocline eddy (ITE‐1), or mode‐water eddy, persisted during the time series and the survey was undertaken during a wind relaxation event. At the survey time, ITE‐1 contributed to an onshore intrusion of warm oceanic waters (southern section) and an offshore advection of cold coastal waters (northern section), with the latter forming a cold, high chlorophyll‐a filament. In situ phytoplankton and diatom biomasses were highest at the surface in FRN‐1 and at the subsurface in ITE‐1, whereas values in the coastal zone were lower and dominated by smaller cells. Diatom species typical of the coastal zone and species dominant in oceanic waters were both found in the FRN‐1 and ITE‐1 interaction area, suggesting that this mixture was the result of both offshore and onshore advection. Overall, front‐eddy interactions in EBCSs could enhance cross‐shelf exchanges of coastal and oceanic plankton, as well as sustain phytoplankton growth in the slope area through localized upward injections of nutrients in the frontal zone, combined with ITE‐induced advection and vertical nutrient inputs to the surface layer.
Source and Fate of Dissolved Black Carbon in the Western South China Sea During the Southwest Monsoon Prevailing Season
Authors: Fang Ziming , Yang Weifeng , Chen Min , Ma Haoyang
Published: October 2017

Dissolved black carbon (DBC) is of importance for understanding the marine carbon cycle especially on long time scales owing to its refractory nature in the dissolved organic carbon pool. However, its geochemical behavior is poorly understood in the open oceans due to limited DBC data. Here 86 seawater samples were determined using the benzene‐polycarboxylic acid method to investigate the source and fate of DBC in the western South China Sea. The DBC concentration varied from 0.49 to 1.60 μmol L−1, averaging 0.95 μmol L−1. Spatially, the Mekong River plume (i.e., MR plume) showed higher DBC concentrations and (B6CA + B5CA)/(B4CA + B3CA) ratios (i.e., RH/L) in the mixed layer than the distal regions. In addition, the DBC concentration positively correlated with salinity in the mixed layer within the MR plume, indicating the important DBC input from the Mekong River. In intermediate water (500–1500 m), DBC varied from 0.70 to 0.85 μmol L−1 and the RH/L value continually increased with depth, implying another DBC source with distinct RH/L ratio comparing with the euphotic zone. Based on a conservative mixing model, the Mekong River and atmospheric deposition collectively input 38–100 Gg DBC each year, and over one third of DBC were removed within the euphotic zone, probably via photodegradation and/or adsorption on particles. These results highlighted the different DBC behavior in the euphotic and intermediate zones and lent support to DBC as a proxy for tracing water mixing in the intermediate and deep oceans.
Development of Autonomous Boat‐Type Robot for Automated Velocity Measurement in Straight Natural River
Authors: Sanjou Michio , Nagasaka Tsuyoshi
Published: October 2017

The present study describes an automated system to measure the river flow velocity. A combination of the camera‐tracking system and the Proportional/Integral/Derivative (PID) control could enable the boat‐type robot to remain in position against the mainstream; this results in reasonable evaluation of the mean velocity by a duty ratio which corresponds to rotation speed of the screw propeller. A laser range finder module was installed to measure the local water depth. Reliable laboratory experiments with the prototype boat robot and electromagnetic velocimetry were conducted to obtain a calibration curve that connects the duty ratio and mean current velocity. The remaining accuracy in the target point was also examined quantitatively. The fluctuation in the spanwise direction is within half of the robot length. It was therefore found that the robot remains well within the target region. We used two‐dimensional navigation tests to guarantee that the prototype moved smoothly to the target points and successfully measured the streamwise velocity profiles across the mainstream. Moreover, the present robot was found to move successfully not only in the laboratory flume but also in a small natural river. The robot could move smoothly from the starting point near the operator's site toward the target point where the velocity is measured, and it could evaluate the cross‐sectional discharge.
Multitracer Field Fluorometry: Accounting for Temperature and Turbidity Variability During Stream Tracer Tests
Authors: Blaen Phillip J. , Brekenfeld Nicolai , Comer‐Warner Sophie , Krause Stefan
Published: October 2017

The use of multitracer field fluorometry is increasing in the hydrological sciences. However, obtaining high‐quality fluorescence measurements is challenging given the variability in environmental conditions within stream ecosystems. Here, we conducted a series of stream tracer tests to examine the degree to which multitracer field fluorometry produces reliable estimates of tracer concentrations under realistic field conditions. Using frequently applied examples of conservative (Uranine) and reactive (Resazurin‐Resorufin) fluorescent tracers, we show that in situ measurements of tracer breakthrough curves can deviate markedly from corresponding samples analyzed under laboratory conditions. To investigate the effects of key environmental variables on fluorescence measurements, we characterized the response of field fluorometer measurements to changes in temperature, turbidity, and tracer concentration. Results showed pronounced negative log‐linear effects of temperature on fluorescence measurements for all tracers, with stronger effects observed typically at lower tracer concentrations. We also observed linear effects of turbidity on fluorescence measurements that varied predictably with tracer concentration. Based on our findings, we present methods to correct field fluorometer measurements for variation in these parameters. Our results show how changing environmental conditions can introduce substantial uncertainties in the analysis of fluorescent tracer breakthrough curves, and highlight the importance of accounting for these changes to prevent incorrect inferences being drawn regarding the physical and biogeochemical processes underpinning observed patterns.
Multifurcate Assembly of Slanted Micropillars Fabricated by Superposition of Optical Vortices and Application in High‐Efficiency Trapping Microparticles
Authors: Ni Jincheng , Wang Zhongyu , Li Ziqin , Lao Zhaoxin , Hu Yanlei , Ji Shengyun , Xu Bing , Zhang Chenchu , Li Jiawen , Wu Dong , Chu Jiaru
Published: October 2017

Self‐assembly induced by capillary force is abundant in nature and has been widely used in fabrication as a bottom‐up method. Here a rapid and flexible method for achieving an even number of furcate slanted micropillars by single‐exposure under a spatial phase modulated laser beam is reported, which is produced by designing a superimposed hologram with opposite topological charges to split the incident beam into several equal‐weighting sectors. These furcate micropillars with intentional spatial arrangement can be directed to capillary‐assisted self‐assembly process for generating designable hierarchical functional arrays. Due to the slanted characteristic of micropillars (8°–13°), the assembled arrays are very stable and can be used as an effective tool for trapping SiO2 particles to form honeycomb patterns with an ultrahigh trapping ratio (>90%), which can image as a microlens array. The investigation reveals that micropillars with a height of 6 µm exhibit the high trapping ratio of particles, which maintain a fine imaging performance. The fast fabrication (more than 2 orders of magnitude enhancement) of furcate slanted pillars paves an avenue for developing innovative microoptics, microfluidics and biological scaffold engineering.
InVADE: Integrated Vasculature for Assessing Dynamic Events
Authors: Lai Benjamin Fook Lun , Huyer Locke Davenport , Lu Rick Xing Ze , Drecun Stasja , Radisic Milica , Zhang Boyang
Published: October 2017

Drug screening with simplified 2D cell culture and relevant animal testing fail to predict clinical outcomes. With the rising cost of drug development, predictive 3D tissue models with human cells are in urgent demand. Establishing vascular perfusion of 3D tissues has always been a challenge, but it is necessary to mimic drug transport and to capture complex interorgan crosstalk. Here, a versatile multiwell plate is presented empowered by built‐in microfabricated vascular scaffolds that define the vascular space and support self‐assembly of various parenchymal tissues. In this configuration, assembly and organ‐specific function of a metabolically active liver, a free‐contracting cardiac muscle, and a metastatic solid tumor are demonstrated, tracking organ function using noninvasive analysis techniques. By linking the 3D tumor and the liver tissue in series, it is demonstrated that the presence of liver tissue is crucial to correctly reveal the efficacy of a chemotherapeutic drug, Tegafur. Furthermore, the complete cancer metastasis cascade is demonstrated across multiple organs, where cancer cells escaping from the solid tumor can invade a distant liver tissue connected through a continuous vascular interface. This combinatory use of microfabricated scaffold onto a standard cell culturing platform can offer important insights into the mechanics of complex interorgan biological events.
Periodic Dielectric Metasurfaces with High‐Efficiency, Multiwavelength Functionalities
Authors: Sell David , Yang Jianji , Doshay Sage , Fan Jonathan A.
Published: October 2017

Metasurfaces are thin‐film optical devices for tailoring the phase fronts of light. The extension of metasurfaces to multiple wavelengths has remained a major challenge, and existing design techniques do not yield devices with high efficiency. This study reports a new design method, based on inverse freeform optimization, that enables high‐efficiency, multiwavelength metasurfaces. Using an iterative optimization solver, this study incorporates multiple wavelength responses into wavelength‐scale design domains in a straightforward and automated manner. In principle, this method can readily scale to a very large number of wavelengths. As a proof of concept, this study designs and characterizes periodic transmissive metasurfaces, made from silicon, that deflect N different incident near‐infrared wavelengths to N unique diffraction orders. The theoretical and experimental efficiencies of these devices scale as 1/N0.5, which is significantly better than current state‐of‐the‐art devices. The implementation of large‐angle, broadband blazed grating devices is also demonstrated. This study envisions that this inverse design method can generalize to high‐performance, multiwavelength, aperiodic devices, and that it serves as a potential route to broadband metasurfaces.
A Triphasic Modulated Hydrothermal Approach for the Synthesis of Multivariate Metal–Organic Frameworks with Hydrophobic Moieties for Highly Efficient Moisture‐Resistant CO2 Capture
Authors: Hu Zhigang , Gami Abhishek , Wang Yuxiang , Zhao Dan
Published: October 2017

The CO2 capture performance of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is largely compromised under wet conditions. This study reports a triphasic modulated hydrothermal approach to prepare multivariate (MTV) UiO‐66(Zr) MOFs with hydrophobic moieties for wet CO2 capture under heterogeneous aqueous conditions. Among these MOFs, UiO‐66(Zr)‐NH2‐F4‐0.53 shows a binary CO2 adsorption capacity of 0.76 mmol g−1 and a CO2/N2 (15/85) selectivity of 18.9 at 298 K, which is among the best of all UiO‐66‐type MOFs. Besides, UiO‐66(Zr)‐NH2‐F4‐0.53 only loses 30% of its CO2 uptake capacity under wet (70% relative humidity) CO2/N2 (15/85) mixture condition at 298 K, compared with almost 100% loss of zeolite materials and other hydrophilic adsorbents under similar conditions. This moisture‐resistant feature makes UiO‐66(Zr)‐NH2‐F4‐0.53 one of the best physisorption‐based adsorbent materials for CO2 capture under wet conditions so far. Moreover, UiO‐66(Zr)‐NH2‐F4‐0.53 demonstrates enhanced breakthrough dynamics with less cross‐column pressure drop (ΔP ≈ 0 bar) and 2.7 times larger mass transfer coefficient (k = 0.1235 s−1) than that of pristine UiO‐66(Zr)‐NH2 (ΔP ≈ 0.25 bar, k = 0.0334 s−1). The present study offers new insights into the heterogeneous synthesis of MTV‐MOFs and a paradigm to design hydrophobic MOFs with improved material features for moisture‐resistant CO2 capture applications.
Earth‐Abundant Tin Sulfide‐Based Photocathodes for Solar Hydrogen Production
Authors: Cheng Wei , Singh Nirala , Elliott Will , Lee Joun , Rassoolkhani Alan , Jin Xuejun , McFarland Eric W. , Mubeen Syed
Published: October 2017

Tin‐based chalcogenide semiconductors, though attractive materials for photovoltaics, have to date exhibited poor performance and stability for photoelectrochemical applications. Here, a novel strategy is reported to improve performance and stability of tin monosulfide (SnS) nanoplatelet thin films for H2 production in acidic media without any use of sacrificial reagent. P‐type SnS nanoplatelet films are coated with the n‐CdS buffer layer and the TiO2 passivation layer to form type II heterojunction photocathodes. These photocathodes with subsequent deposition of Pt nanoparticles generate a photovoltage of 300 mV and a photocurrent density of 2.4 mA cm−2 at 0 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) for water splitting under simulated visible‐light illumination (λ > 500 nm, Pin = 80 mW cm−2). The incident photon‐to‐current efficiency at 0 V versus RHE for H2 production reach a maximum of 12.7% at 575 nm with internal quantum efficiency of 13.8%. The faradaic efficiency for hydrogen evolution remains close to unity after 6000 s of illumination, confirming the robustness of the heterojunction for solar H2 production.
Immobilization of nickel ions onto the magnetic nanocomposite based on cross‐linked melamine groups: Effective heterogeneous catalyst for N‐Arylation of Arylboronic acids
Authors: Pourjavadi Ali , Keshavarzi Nahid , Moghaddam Firouz Matloubi , Hosseini Seyed Hassan
Published: October 2017

A new magnetic heterogeneous catalyst was synthesized by immobilization of nickel ions onto a cross‐linked polymeric nanocomposite composed of cyanuric chloride, ethylenediamine and functionalized magnetic nanoparticles. The resulting nitrogen rich support was capable of adsorbing large amounts of nickel ions (1.20 mmol g−1). The synthesized catalyst was characterized using AAS, TEM, FT‐IR, EDX, TGA, SEM, BET and XRD techniques. The performance of the prepared catalyst was investigated in the C‐N coupling of arylamines with aryl boronic acids. The reaction was carried out under a mild condition and good to moderate to good yields of products was obtained using only 5.0 mol% of the catalyst. The catalyst was easily recovered and reused for at least 7 times without any significant loss of its activity.
A new method to determine monomer concentration in the polymer particles of emulsion polymerization systems by dynamic light scattering
Authors: Abdollahi Mahdi
Published: October 2017

In the published article cited above, by considering corrections made on the eq. (19) which will be discussed in the next section, Figure 6 should be replaced with a following new Figure 1. Hence,
and
values of 0.379 and 5.68 mol.dm−3, respectively, on pages 1055, 1061, and 1062 should be changed to their accurate values of 0.426 and 5.29 mol.dm−3, respectively.
Do Mid‐Crown Enamel Formation Front Angles Reflect Factors Linked to the Pace of Primate Growth and Development?
Authors: Guatelli‐Steinberg Debbie , Pampush James D. , O'Hara Mackie C. , Xing Song , McGraw W. Scott , Ferrell Rebecca J.
Published: October 2017

Enamel formation front (EFF) angles represent the leading edge of enamel matrix secretion at particular points in time. These angles are influenced by rates of enamel extension (the rates at which tooth crowns grow in height), rates of enamel matrix secretion and the angles that prisms make with the enamel‐dentine junction. Previous research suggests, but has not yet established, that these angles reflect aspects of primate biology related to their pace of growth and development, most notably brain and body size. The present study tested this possibility on histological sections using phylogenetically‐controlled and Bonferroni‐corrected analyses spanning a broad taxonomic range. Ten species were represented in the analysis of anterior teeth; 17 in the analysis of posterior (postcanine) teeth (with varying sample sizes). Also, tested was the relationship of EFF angles to striae of Retzius periodicity (long period growth rhythms in enamel) and degree of folivory, as both factors are related to primate developmental rates. Finally, several analyses were conducted to investigate whether tooth size (operationalized as EDJ length) might mediate these relationships. Central results are as follows: (1) Relationships between EFF angles and brain weight (anterior teeth) and between EFF angles and body mass (anterior and posterior teeth) are statistically significant and (2) Mid‐crown EFF angles are not statistically significantly related to EDJ lengths. These results suggest that tooth size does not mediate relationships between EFF angles and brain weight/body mass and are discussed with respect to underlying enamel growth variables (especially rates of enamel extension and secretion). Anat Rec, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Anat Rec, 301:125–139, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Learning Control of Robot Manipulators in Task Space
Authors: Dogan K. M. , Tatlicioglu E. , Zergeroglu E. , Cetin K.
Published: October 2017

Two important properties of industrial tasks performed by robot manipulators, namely, periodicity (i.e., repetitive nature) of the task and the need for the task to be performed by the end‐effector, motivated this work. Not being able to utilize the robot manipulator dynamics due to uncertainties complicated the control design. In a seemingly novel departure from the existing works in the literature, the tracking problem is formulated in the task space and the control input torque is aimed to decrease the task space tracking error directly without making use of inverse kinematics at the position level. A repetitive learning controller is designed which “learns” the overall uncertainties in the robot manipulator dynamics. The stability of the closed‐loop system and asymptotic end‐effector tracking of a periodic desired trajectory are guaranteed via Lyapunov based analysis methods. Experiments performed on an in‐house developed robot manipulator are presented to illustrate the performance and viability of the proposed controller.
Widening the educational capabilities of socio‐economically disadvantaged students through a model of social and cultural capital development
Authors: Hannon Cliona , Faas Daniel , O'Sullivan Katriona
Published: October 2017

Widening participation programmes aim to increase the progression of students from low socio‐economic status (SES) groups to higher education. This research proposes that the human capabilities approach is a good justice‐based framework within which to consider the social and cultural capital processes that impact upon the educational capabilities of young people from low SES groups. It presents a case study which examines the developing capability set of Irish students from a representative sample of schools participating in a university‐based widening participation outreach programme aimed at increasing social and cultural capital constructs. Qualitative analysis is presented from four schools; four student focus groups with 22 student participants, and 15 individual student interviews. Findings focus on the developing capabilities of autonomy, hope, voice and identity, as well as on the relationship between specific widening participation activities and the developing capability set. The findings highlight the development of college‐focused knowledge and how this impacts upon students’ aspiration to participate in higher education. The idea of ‘widening capability’ is discussed in relation to the potential of the capability approach to contribute an additional dimension to a mainly neoliberal policy rhetoric, which emphasises the market value of higher‐education participation. In doing so, it explores how widening participation activities can influence the widening capability set of low SES students, and its relationship with what the students deem to be ‘a life of value’.
How Communication Between Nucleosomes Enables Spreading and Epigenetic Memory of Histone Modifications
Authors: Erdel Fabian
Published: October 2017

Nucleosomes “talk” to each other about their modification state to form extended domains of modified histones independently of the underlying DNA sequence. At the same time, DNA elements promote modification of nucleosomes in their vicinity. How do these site‐specific and histone‐based activities act together to regulate spreading of histone modifications along the genome? How do they enable epigenetic memory to preserve cell identity? Many models for the dynamics of repressive histone modifications emphasize the role of strong positive feedback loops, which reinforce histone modifications by recruiting histone modifiers to preexisting modifications. Recent experiments question that repressive histone modifications are self‐sustained independently of their genomic context, thereby indicating that histone‐based feedback is relatively weak. In the present review, current models for the dynamics of histone modifications are compared and it is suggested that limitation of histone‐based feedback is key to intrinsic confinement of spreading and coexistence of short‐ and long‐term memory at different genomic loci. See also the video abstract here: https://youtu.be/3bxr_xDEZfQ.
Linking Y‐chromosomal short tandem repeat loci to human male impulsive aggression
Authors: Yang Chun , Ba Huajie , Cao Yin , Dong Guoying , Zhang Shuyou , Gao Zhiqin , Zhao Hanqing , Zhou Xianju
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Men are more susceptible to impulsive behavior than women. Epidemiological studies revealed that the impulsive aggressive behavior is affected by genetic factors, and the male‐specific Y chromosome plays an important role in this behavior. In this study, we investigated the association between the impulsive aggressive behavior and Y‐chromosomal short tandem repeats (Y‐STRs) loci.

Methods

The collected biologic samples from 271 offenders with impulsive aggressive behavior and 492 healthy individuals without impulsive aggressive behavior were amplified by PowerPlexRY23 PCR System and the resultant products were separated by electrophoresis and further genotyped. Then, comparisons in allele and haplotype frequencies of the selected 22 Y‐STRs were made in the two groups.

Results

Our results showed that there were significant differences in allele frequencies at DYS448 and DYS456 between offenders and controls (p < .05). Univariate analysis further revealed significant frequency differences for alleles 18 and 22 at DYS448 (0.18 vs 0.27, compared to the controls, p = .003, OR=0.57,95% CI=0.39–0.82; 0.03 vs 0.01, compared to the controls, p = .003, OR=7.45, 95% CI=1.57–35.35, respectively) and for allele 17 at DYS456 (0.07 vs 0.14, compared to the controls, p = .006, OR=0.48, 95% CI =0.28–0.82) between two groups. Interestingly, the frequency of haploid haplotype 22‐15 on the DYS448‐DYS456 (DYS448‐DYS456‐22‐15) was significantly higher in offenders than in controls (0.033 vs 0.004, compared to the control, p = .001, OR = 8.42, 95%CI =1.81–39.24). Moreover, there were no significant differences in allele frequencies of other Y‐STRs loci between two groups. Furthermore, the unconditional logistic regression analysis confirmed that alleles 18 and 22 at DYS448 and allele 17 at DYS456 are associated with male impulsive aggression. However, the DYS448‐DYS456‐22‐15 is less related to impulsive aggression.

Conclusion

Our results suggest a link between Y‐chromosomal allele types and male impulsive aggression.
Background and distribution of lobar microbleeds in cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Matsuyama Hirofumi , Ii Yuichiro , Maeda Masayuki , Umino Maki , Ueda Yukito , Tabei Ken‐ichi , Kida Hirotaka , Satoh Masayuki , Shindo Akihiro , Taniguchi Akira , Takahashi Ryosuke , Tomimoto Hidekazu
Published: October 2017

Objectives

Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are often observed in memory clinic patients. It has been generally accepted that deep CMBs (D‐CMBs) result from hypertensive vasculopathy (HV), whereas strictly lobar CMBs (SL‐CMBs) result from cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) which frequently coexists with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Mixed CMBs (M‐CMBs) have been partially attributed to HV and also partially attributed to CAA. The aim of this study was to elucidate the differences between SL‐CMBs and M‐CMBs in terms of clinical features and regional distribution.

Materials

We examined 176 sequential patients in our memory clinic for clinical features and CMB location using susceptibility‐weighted images obtained on a 3T‐MRI. The number of lobar CMBs in SL‐CMBs and M‐CMBs was counted in each cerebral lobe and their regional density was adjusted according to the volume of each lobe.

Results

Of the total 176 patients, 111 patients (63.1%) had CMBs. Within the patients who had CMBs, M‐CMBs were found in 54 patients (48.6%), followed by SL‐CMBs in 35 (31.5%) and D‐CMBs in 19 (17.1%). The SL‐CMB group showed a significantly higher prevalence of family history of dementia, whereas the M‐CMB group showed an increasing trend toward hypertension and smoking. The prevalence of AD was significantly higher in the SL‐CMBs group, whereas the prevalence of AD with cerebrovascular disease was higher in the M‐CMBs group. The regional density of lobar CMBs was significantly higher in the occipital lobe in the M‐CMB group, whereas the SL‐CMB group showed higher regional density between regions an increasing tendency in the parietal and occipital lobe.

Conclusion

The between‐group differences in clinical features and regional distribution indicate there to be an etiological relationship of SL‐CMBs to AD and CAA, and M‐CMBs to both HV and CAA.
Combined prognostic value of pretreatment anemia and cervical node necrosis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma receiving intensity‐modulated radiotherapy: A large‐scale retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Lu‐Lu , Zhou Guan‐Qun , Li Yi‐Yang , Tang Ling‐Long , Mao Yan‐Ping , Lin Ai‐Hua , Ma Jun , Qi Zhen‐Yu , Sun Ying
Published: October 2017

This study investigated the combined prognostic value of pretreatment anemia and cervical node necrosis (CNN) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Retrospective review of 1302 patients with newly diagnosed nonmetastatic NPC treated with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) ± chemotherapy. Patients were classified into four groups according to anemia and CNN status. Survival was compared using the log‐rank test. Independent prognostic factors were identified using the Cox proportional hazards model. The primary end‐point was overall survival (OS); secondary end‐points were disease‐free survival (DFS), locoregional relapse‐free survival (LRRFS), and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS). Pretreatment anemia was an independent, adverse prognostic factor for DMFS; pretreatment CNN was an independent adverse prognostic factor for all end‐points. Five‐year survival for non‐anemia and non‐CNN, anemia, CNN, and anemia and CNN groups were: OS (93.1%, 87.2%, 82.9%, 76.3%, P < 0.001), DFS (87.0%, 84.0%, 73.9%, 64.6%, P < 0.001), DMFS (94.1%, 92.1%, 82.4%, 72.5%, P < 0.001), and LRRFS (92.8%, 92.4%, 88.7%, 84.0%, P = 0.012). The non‐anemia and non‐CNN group had best survival outcomes; anemia and CNN group, the poorest. Multivariate analysis demonstrated combined anemia and CNN was an independent prognostic factor for OS, DFS, DMFS, and LRRFS (P < 0.05). The combination of anemia and CNN is an independent adverse prognostic factor in patients with NPC treated using IMRT ± chemotherapy. Assessment of pretreatment anemia and CNN improved risk stratification, especially for patients with anemia and CNN who have poorest prognosis. This study may aid the design of individualized treatment plans to improve treatment outcomes.
Know how to manage situations involving individuals associated with prospects
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: October 2017

The National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I rule governing individuals associated with prospects, also known as IAWPs, can present some challenges for college athletics administrators.
Quick Identification of Piperidine Alkaloid from Roots of Grewia nervosa and Their Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Meena Surya N. , Majik Mahesh S. , Ghadi Sanjeev C. , Tilve Santosh G.
Published: October 2017

Grewia nervosa is a herbal plant used in traditional medicine for different purposes. Bioassay‐guided chemical fractionation of G. nervosa roots resulted in an identification of two known and one new compound, namely microgrewiapine A, homomicrogrewiapine, and N‐methylmicrocosamine, respectively. Their structures were determined using combination of LC/HR‐MS, 1H‐NMR, and IR spectral analyses and followed by comparison with those reported in the literature. The problematic separation of these alkaloids on traditional column chromatography (Silica gel, Octadecyl silane, Sephadex) was resolved by using HPLC. Structurally similar compounds from the piperidine family have been characterized by using HR‐MS analysis in combination with NMR data of crude samples. The major constituent i.e. N‐methylmicrocosamine isolated from the butanol fraction of methanol root extract (MRE) was found to possess the dose dependent α‐glucosidase inhibition activity with an IC50 value of 53.40 μm. Furthermore, N‐methylmicrocosamine showed maximum α‐glucosidase inhibition of 97.48 ± 0.7% at 107.5 μm, which is approximately 1.3 × 103 fold higher than the activity shown by acarbose (97.72% inhibition at 61.95 mm), a standard anti‐diabetic drug available commercially. This work also reports the in vitro α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity of the major alkaloids isolated from G. nervosa for the first time.
Delayed right ventricular lead perforation complicated by tamponade in biventricular hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kourireche Najla , Boutakhrit Amal , Chikhi Fatima , Fellat Ibtissam , Cherti Mohammed
Published: October 2017

Key Clinical Message

This report highlights the importance of a more cautious approach in a patient with a history of implanted cardiac leads presenting with chest pain or dyspnea, to prevent overlooking cardiac lead perforations especially in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy which seems to be not absolutely protective.
Immunocytochemistry for SOX‐11 and TFE3 as diagnostic markers for solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas in FNA biopsies
Authors: Foo Wen‐Chi , Harrison Grant , Zhang Xuefeng
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPNs) of the pancreas are rare malignant tumors that can be sampled via endoscopic ultrasound–guided fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA). Although diagnosing SPNs can be straightforward in cases with a classic morphology and a typical immunoprofile, challenges can occur with morphologic variants or limited specimens. Recently, 2 immunohistochemical stains, SRY‐related high‐mobility group box 11 (SOX‐11) and transcription factor E3 (TFE3), have been demonstrated to be highly sensitive and specific for SPNs in pancreatic resection specimens. The current study evaluates the diagnostic utility of these stains with EUS‐FNA.

METHODS

Thirteen EUS‐FNA specimens from SPNs with sufficient material for immunocytochemistry were identified from 2000 to 2016. These cases were compared with 13 EUS‐FNA specimens of non‐SPN pancreatic neoplasms. Immunocytochemistry for SOX‐11, TFE3, and β‐catenin was performed on all cell blocks and then was scored independently by 2 pathologists in a masked manner.

RESULTS

Nuclear reactivity for SOX‐11 was detected in 13 of 13 SPNs and in 0 of 13 non‐SPNs; this resulted in sensitivity and specificity values of 100%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 1, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 1. Nuclear reactivity for TFE3 was detected in 9 of 13 SPNs and in 0 of 13 non‐SPNs; this resulted in a sensitivity of 69.2%, a specificity of 100%, a PPV of 1, and an NPV of 0.765. Nuclear reactivity for β‐catenin was detected in 13 of 13 SPNs and in 1 of 13 non‐SPNs; this resulted in a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 92.3%, a PPV of 0.929, and an NPV of 1.

CONCLUSIONS

SOX‐11 is a sensitive and specific immunocytochemical stain for SPNs in EUS‐FNA specimens, and it may be useful as a diagnostic marker for distinguishing SPNs from its cytologic mimics. Cancer Cytopathol 2017;125:831–7. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Synergies From Integrating Randomized Controlled Trials and Real‐World Data Analyses
Authors: Najafzadeh Mehdi , Gagne Joshua J. , Schneeweiss Sebastian
Published: October 2017

Analyses using administrative claims databases or national registries provide estimates of benefits and harms of medications in real‐world settings for large and diverse patient populations. Whereas claims‐based nonrandomized studies and randomized‐controlled trials (RCTs) have distinct limitations, their strengths are complementary. Integrating RCT and claims data offers substantial synergies. We propose obtaining routinely collected longitudinal claims data from RCT participants and discuss the added value of the novel evidence that can be derived from this “information overlap.”
Limitation of cracking in AAC masonry under the window zone
Authors: Drobiec Łukasz
Published: October 2017

The article describes the results of tests on the impact of reinforcement on the appearance of cracks and on the manner of damage to masonry under the window zone. Masonry made of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete units with thin layer mortar was tested. Eight unreinforced test specimens (two series) and four series of test specimens (12 specimens) with reinforcement in the bed joints were subject to testing. Two types of reinforcement were used in the tests. It is demonstrated that the reinforcement has a significant impact on the level of cracking stress and propagation of cracks. It was found that when a pillar is correctly designed, cracks should not occur in the masonry under the window zone.
Autoclaved aerated concrete with sulphate content: an environmentally friendly, durable and recyclable building material
Authors: Kreft Oliver
Published: October 2017

Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) contains a small quantity of sulphate. For example, a modern quality class PP2‐0,35 AAC (λ = 0.09 W/(mK)) from Xella contains about five per cent by mass of sulphate in the form of gypsum or anhydrite. The addition of sulphate reduces shrinkage and enhances compressive strength and durability. AAC thus has an almost unrestricted lifetime. Regarding the environmental acceptability of sulphate, dogmatic discussions have been held for years. What is certain: sulphate is not a hazardous substance. Calcium sulphate (gypsum) has been categorised according to the Directive (EC) No. 1272/2008 (CLP) as not hazardous. Xella's voluntary environmental declarations for AAC confirm not only the excellent ecological balance of this product but also the absence of hazardous substances.

For construction and demolition (C&D) waste from AAC, disposal is ensured in Germany with landfill class I (“Non‐hazardous waste, domestic waste”). In order to save disposal costs, Xella offers to take back unmixed cutting waste, which arises in the course of new building or refurbishment, without charge at the Ytong‐factories. Xellas long‐term aim is a closed recycling loop for AAC. A collaborative pilot project between Xella and the Otto Dörner Entsorgung GmbH has shown that from the point of view of process and materials technology, production of high‐quality AAC is even possible under utilization of crushed AAC from demolition.
Use of sacubitril/valsartan in acute decompensated heart failure: a case report
Authors: Bell Taison D. , Mazer Adrien J. , Miller P. Elliott , Strich Jeffrey R. , Sachdev Vandana , Wright Mary E. , Solomon Michael A.
Published: October 2017

Refractory heart failure typically requires costly long‐term, continuous intravenous inodilator infusions while patients await mechanical circulatory support or cardiac transplantation. The combined angiotensin receptor blocker–neprilysin inhibitor, sacubitril/valsartan, is a novel therapy that can increase levels of endogenous vasoactive peptides. This therapy has been recommended as an alternative agent in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and New York Heart Association class II–III symptoms. Here, we report a case of a patient with refractory stage D heart failure with reduced ejection fraction who was successfully weaned off continuous intravenous inodilator support using sacubitril/valsartan after prior failed attempts using standard therapies.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Limonene‐Based Chiral 1,3‐Amino Alcohols and Aminodiols
Authors: Le Minh Tam , Fülöp Ferenc , Szakonyi Zsolt
Published: October 2017

An unexpected ring‐closing reaction of an α,β‐unsaturated carboxylic acid, derived from (R)‐ and ‐(S)‐limonene, in the presence of trifluoroacetic anhydride (TFAA) resulted in bicyclic α‐methylene ketones and their hydroxylated analogues in a stereoselective intramolecular acylation reaction. The reaction was studied in detail, and was optimised for both compounds. The addition of secondary and primary amines to both keto alkenes followed by in‐situ reduction of the resulting aminoketones with sodium borohydride gave new bicyclic terpenoid secondary and tertiary 1,3‐amino alcohols and aminodiols with excellent diastereoselectivities. Regioisomeric aminodiols were prepared stereoselectively from the unsaturated 1,3‐amino alcohols by hydroboration with Me2S·BH3/H2O2.
Electroacupuncture alleviates chemotherapy‐induced pain through inhibiting phosphorylation of spinal CaMKII in rats
Authors: Zhang Y. , Li A. , Xin J. , Ren K. , Berman B.M. , Lao L. , Zhang R.‐X.
Published: October 2017

Background

Current medical treatments for chemotherapy‐induced pain (CIP) are either ineffective or have adverse side effects. Acupuncture may alleviate CIP, but its effectiveness against this condition has not been studied. Paclitaxel causes neuropathic pain in cancer patients.

Methods

We evaluated the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on paclitaxel‐induced CIP in a rat model. Paclitaxel (2 mg/kg) or vehicle was injected (i.p.) on alternate days of 0–6. The resulting pain was treated with 10 Hz/2 mA/0.4 ms pulse EA for 30 min at the equivalent of human acupoint GB30 (Huantiao) once every other day between days 14 and 26. For sham control, EA needles were inserted into GB30 without stimulation. Von Frey filaments with bending forces of 2–8 g and 15 g were used to assess mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia, respectively, on day 13 and once every other day between 14–26 days and then for 2–3 weeks after EA treatment.

Results

Compared to sham control, EA significantly alleviated paclitaxel‐induced mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia, as shown by less frequent withdrawal responses to the filaments. The alleviation of allodynia/hyperalgesia lasted up to 3 weeks after the EA treatment. EA significantly inhibited phosphorylation of Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in the spinal cord. KN‐93, a selective inhibitor of p‐CaMKII, inhibited mechanical allodynia/hyperalgesia and p‐CaMKII. 5‐HT1A receptor antagonist blocked EA inhibition of allodynia/hyperalgesia and p‐CaMKII.

Conclusions

Electroacupuncture activates 5‐HT 1A receptors in the spinal cord and inhibits p‐CaMKII to alleviate both allodynia and hyperalgesia. The data support acupuncture/EA as a complementary therapy for CIP.

Significance

Electroacupuncture (EA) activates spinal 5‐HT1A receptors to inhibit p‐CaMKII to alleviate paclitaxel‐induced pain. Acupuncture/EA may be used as a complementary therapy for CIP.
Bradykinin system is involved in endometriosis‐related pain through endothelin‐1 production
Authors: Yoshino O. , Yamada‐Nomoto K. , Kobayashi M. , Andoh T. , Hongo M. , Ono Y. , Hasegawa‐Idemitsu A. , Sakai A. , Osuga Y. , Saito S.
Published: October 2017

Background

Endometriosis is a gynaecological disease exhibiting severe pelvic pain, but the mechanism of pain production remains unknown. Bradykinin (BK) is known as an inflammatory mediator, and shows elevated levels in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. In the present study, we evaluated whether BK is involved in endometriosis‐related pain.

Methods

Endometriotic lesions were used for immunohistochemistry. Primary cultures of endometriotic stromal cells (ESC) were stimulated with IL‐1β and/or BK. Quantitative RT‐PCR was used to evaluate the mRNA expressions of BK receptors (BKR) and endothelin‐1 in ESC. The concentration of endothelin‐1 in cystic fluid of endometrioma or non‐endometrioma was measured with ELISA. The conditioned medium of ESC stimulated with IL‐1β and/or BK was injected intraplantarly in mice, and evaluated whether pain‐related licking behaviour was elicited.

Results

The expressions of BK and BKR in endometriotic lesions were observed by immunohistochemistry. In vitro experiments showed that IL‐1β induced BKR‐B1 and B2 on ESC. Activation of these receptors by BK significantly induced endothelin‐1 expression in ESC, which was negated completely by HOE‐140, a BKR‐B2 antagonist. The cystic fluid of endometrioma contained higher amount of endothelin‐1 compared to non‐endometrioma. Intraplantar injection of the conditioned medium of ESC treated with IL‐1β and BK significantly induced licking behaviour, which was suppressed with BQ‐123, an endothelin type‐A receptor antagonist.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated the presence and the function of the BK axis in endometriosis, and established a potential new therapy target for endometriosis‐related pain.

Significance

The present study demonstrated (1) the presence and the function of the BK system in endometriosis, (2) activation of BKR induced endothelin‐1 in endometriotic lesion and (3) blocking endothelin‐1 was effective to decrease pain.