bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in language white matter tract microarchitecture associated with cognitive deficits in patients with presumed low-grade glioma
Authors: Incekara Fatih , Satoer Djaina , Visch-Brink Evy , Vincent Arnaud , Smits Marion
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE

The authors conducted a study to determine whether cognitive functioning of patients with presumed low-grade glioma is associated with white matter (WM) tract changes.

METHODS

The authors included 77 patients with presumed low-grade glioma who underwent awake surgery between 2005 and 2013. Diffusion tensor imaging with deterministic tractography was performed preoperatively to identify the arcuate, inferior frontooccipital, and uncinate fasciculi and to obtain the mean fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity per tract. All patients were evaluated preoperatively using an extensive neuropsychological protocol that included assessments of the language, memory, and attention/executive function domains. Linear regression models were used to analyze each cognitive domain and each diffusion tensor imaging metric of the 3 WM tracts.

RESULTS

Significant correlations (corrected for multiple testing) were found between FA of the arcuate fasciculus and results of the repetition test for the language domain (β = 0.59, p < 0.0001) and between FA of the inferior frontooccipital fasciculus and results of the imprinting test for the memory domain (β = −0.55, p = 0.002) and the attention test for the attention and executive function domain (β = −0.62, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with glioma, language deficits in repetition of speech, imprinting, and attention deficits are associated with changes in the microarchitecture of the arcuate and inferior frontooccipital fasciculi.
Clipping aneurysms improves outcomes for patients undergoing coiling
Authors: Anderson Ian A. , Kailaya-Vasan Ahilan , Nelson Richard J. , Tolias Christos M.
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE

Most intracranial aneurysms are now treated by endovascular rather than by microsurgical procedures. There is evidence to demonstrate superior outcomes for patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) treated by endovascular techniques. However, some cases continue to require microsurgery. The authors have examined the relationship between the number of aneurysms treated by microsurgery and outcome for patients undergoing treatment for aSAH at neurosurgical centers in England.

METHODS

The Neurosurgical National Audit Programme (NNAP) database was used to identify aSAH cases and to provide associated 30-day mortality rates for each of the 24 neurosurgical centers in England. Data were compared for association by regression analysis using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient and any associations were tested for statistical significance using the one-way ANOVA test. The NNAP data were validated utilizing a second, independent registry: the British Neurovascular Group’s (BNVG) National Subarachnoid Haemorrhage Database.

RESULTS

Increasing numbers of microsurgical cases in a center are associated with lower 30-day mortality rates for all patients treated for aSAH, irrespective of treatment modality (Pearson r = 0.42, p = 0.04), and for patients treated for aSAH by endovascular procedures (Pearson r = 0.42, p = 0.04). The correlations are stronger if all (elective and acute) microsurgical cases are compared with outcome. The BNVG data validated the NNAP data set for patients with aSAH.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a statistically significant association between local microsurgical activity and center outcomes for patients with aSAH, even for patients treated endovascularly. The authors postulate that the number of microsurgical cases performed may be a surrogate indicator of closer neurosurgical involvement in the overall management of neurovascular patients and of optimal case selection.
Clinical prediction of delayed cerebral ischemia in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Lee Hubert , Perry Jeffrey J. , English Shane W. , Alkherayf Fahad , Joseph Joanne , Nobile Steven , Zhou Linghong Linda , Lesiuk Howard , Moulton Richard , Agbi Charles , Sinclair John , Dowlatshahi Dar
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to derive a clinically applicable decision rule using clinical, radiological, and laboratory data to predict the development of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) patients.

METHODS

Patients presenting over a consecutive 9-year period with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and at least 1 angiographically evident aneurysm were included. Variables significantly associated with DCI in univariate analysis underwent multivariable logistic regression. Using the beta coefficients, points were assigned to each predictor to establish a scoring system with estimated risks. DCI was defined as neurological deterioration attributable to arterial narrowing detected by transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, CT angiography, MR angiography, or catheter angiography, after exclusion of competing diagnoses.

RESULTS

Of 463 patients, 58% experienced angiographic vasospasm with an overall DCI incidence of 21%. Age, modified Fisher grade, and ruptured aneurysm location were significantly associated with DCI. This combination of predictors had a greater area under the receiver operating characteristic curve than the modified Fisher grade alone (0.73 [95% CI 0.67–0.78] vs 0.66 [95% CI 0.60–0.71]). Patients 70 years or older with modified Fisher grade 0 or 1 SAH and a posterior circulation aneurysm had the lowest risk of DCI at 1.2% (0 points). The highest estimated risk was 38% (17 points) in patients 40–59 years old with modified Fisher grade 4 SAH following rupture of an anterior circulation aneurysm.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients presenting with aSAH, this score-based clinical prediction tool exhibits increased accuracy over the modified Fisher grade alone and may serve as a useful tool to individualize DCI risk.
Evaluation of C2 pedicle screw placement via the freehand technique by neurosurgical trainees
Authors: Pham Martin H. , Bakhsheshian Joshua , Reid Patrick C. , Buchanan Ian A. , Fredrickson Vance L. , Liu John C.
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE

Freehand placement of C2 instrumentation is technically challenging and has a learning curve due the unique anatomy of the region. This study evaluated the accuracy of C2 pedicle screws placed via the freehand technique by neurosurgical resident trainees.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed all patients treated at the LAC+USC Medical Center undergoing C2 pedicle screw placement in which the freehand technique was used over a 1-year period, from June 2016 to June 2017; all procedures were performed by neurosurgical residents. Measurements of C2 were obtained from preoperative CT scans, and breach rates were determined from coronal reconstructions on postoperative scans. Severity of breaches reflected the percentage of screw diameter beyond the cortical edge (I = < 25%; II = 26%–50%; III = 51%–75%; IV = 76%–100%).

RESULTS

Neurosurgical residents placed 40 C2 pedicle screws in 24 consecutively treated patients. All screws were placed by or under the guidance of Pham, who is a postgraduate year 7 (PGY-7) neurosurgical resident with attending staff privileges, with a PGY-2 to PGY-4 resident assistant. The authors found an average axial pedicle diameter of 5.8 mm, axial angle of 43.1°, sagittal angle of 23.0°, spinal canal diameter of 25.1 mm, and axial transverse foramen diameter of 5.9 mm. There were 17 screws placed by PGY-2 residents, 7 screws placed by PGY-4 residents, and 16 screws placed by the PGY-7 resident. The average screw length was 26.0 mm, with a screw diameter of 3.5 mm or 4.0 mm. There were 7 total breaches (17.5%), of which 4 were superior (10.0%) and 3 were lateral (7.5%). There were no medial breaches. The breaches were classified as grade I in 3 cases (42.9%), II in 3 cases (42.9%), III in 1 case (14.3%), and IV in no cases. There were 3 breaches that occurred via placement by a PGY-2 resident, 3 breaches by a PGY-4 resident, and 1 breach by the PGY-7 resident. There were no clinical sequelae due to these breaches.

CONCLUSIONS

Freehand placement of C2 pedicle screws can be done safely by neurosurgical residents in early training. When breaches occurred, they tended to be superior in location and related to screw length choice, and no breaches were found to be clinically significant. Controlled exposure to this unique anatomy is especially pertinent in the era of work-hour restrictions.
Lipschitz stability for a piecewise linear Schrödinger potential from local Cauchy data
Authors: Alessandrini Giovanni , de Hoop Maarten V. , Gaburro Romina , Sincich Eva
Published: June 2018

We consider the inverse boundary value problem of determining the potential q in the equation [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text], from local Cauchy data. A result of global Lipschitz stability is obtained in dimension [Formula: see text] for potentials that are piecewise linear on a given partition of Ω. No sign, nor spectrum condition on q is assumed, hence our treatment encompasses the reduced wave equation [Formula: see text] at fixed frequency k.
Beyond the muscular involvement in non-dystrophic myotonias: The emerging role of neuromodulation
Authors: Portaro Simona , Naro Antonino , Bramanti Alessia , Leo Antonino , Manuli Alfredo , Balletta Tina , Trinchera Antonia , Bramanti Placido , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: June 2018

Background:

The central nervous system involvement, in terms of a maladaptive sensory-motor plasticity, is well known in patients with dystrophic myotonias (DMs). To date, there are no data suggesting a central nervous system involvement in non-dystrophic myotonias (NDMs).

Objective:

To investigate sensory-motor plasticity in patients with Myotonia Congenita (MC) and Paramyotonia Congenita (PMC) with or without mexiletine.

Methods:

Twelve patients with a clinical, genetic, and electromyographic evidence of MC, fifteen with PMC, and 25 healthy controls (HC) were included in the study. TMS on both primary motor cortices (M1) and a rapid paired associative stimulation (rPAS) paradigm were carried out to assess M1 excitability and sensory-motor plasticity.

Results:

patients showed a higher cortical excitability and a deterioration of the topographic specificity of rPAS aftereffects, as compared to HCs. There was no correlation among neurophysiological and clinical-demographic characteristics. Noteworthy, the patients who were under mexiletine showed a minor impairment of the topographic specificity of rPAS aftereffects as compared to those who did not take the drug.

Conclusion:

our findings could suggest the deterioration of cortical sensory-motor plasticity in patients with NDMs as a trait of the disease.
Effect of insulin–coated trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles on IGF-1, IGF-2, and apoptosis in the hippocampus of diabetic male rats
Authors: Kalantarian Giti , Ziamajidi Nasrin , Mahjub Reza , Goodarzi Mohammad Taghi , Saidijam Massoud , Soleimani Asl Sara , Abbasalipourkabir Roghayeh
Published: June 2018

Background:

Subcutaneous injection of insulin can lead to problems such as hypoglycemia and edema.

Objective:

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effect of oral insulin-coated trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles on control of glycemic status, IGF-1 and IGF-2 levels, and apoptosis in the hippocampus of rats with diabetes mellitus.

Methods:

Insulin-coated trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by the polyelectrolyte complex method (PEC) method. Insulin loading content, loading efficiency, quantity and quality of particle size were evaluated. In vivo study was performed in different treatment groups of male Wistar rats with diabetes mellitus by insulin-coated trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles or subcutaneous injection of trade insulin. The duration of diabetes was eight weeks and the treatment was started after that time and continued for another two weeks. Body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBS), hippocampal apoptosis, and immunohistochemical (IHC) protein levels of IGF-1 and IGF-2 were assessed at the end of the experiments.

Results:

The size and polydispersity indexes were 533 nanometers and 0.533, respectively. Insulin coated trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles showed high loading efficiency (97.67% ) and loading content (48.83% ). The spherical shape of nanoparticle was confirmed by transmission electron microscopic (TEM). The amine, amide, ether and aliphatic groups were evaluated using FT-IR spectrophotometer which represented the correctness of the insulin coated trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles. Although the apoptotic index was not changed either by insulin-coated nano-particles or commercial insulin, in vivo results showed the efficacy of insulin-coated nanoparticles as well as commercial insulin in compensated weight loss, FBS and protein levels of IGF-1 and IGF-2.

Conclusions:

The present study showed the efficacy of insulin coated nanoparticle in oral route manner that can be tested in Phase I– III clinical trials. However, a behavioral study could reveal the efficacy of insulin-loaded nanoparticles in the improvement of cognitive changes through the modulation of IGF-1 and IGF-2 levels in the hippocampus.
Phenelzine, a small organic compound mimicking the functions of cell adhesion molecule L1, promotes functional recovery after mouse spinal cord injury
Authors: Li Rong , Sahu Sudhanshu , Schachner Melitta
Published: June 2018

Background:

Neural cell adhesion molecule L1 contributes to nervous system development and maintenance by promoting neuronal survival, neuritogenesis, axonal regrowth/sprouting, myelination, and synapse formation and plasticity. L1 also enhances recovery after spinal cord injury and ameliorates neurodegenerative processes in experimental rodent models. Aiming for clinical translation of L1 into therapy we screened for and functionally characterized in vitro the small organic molecule phenelzine, which mimics characteristic L1 functions.

Objective:

The present study was designed to evaluate the potential of this compound in vivo in a mouse model of spinal cord injury.

Methods and Results:

In mice, intraperitoneal injection of phenelzine immediately after severe thoracic compression, and thereafter once daily for 6 weeks, improved hind limb function, reduced astrogliosis and promoted axonal regrowth/sprouting at 4 and 5 weeks after spinal cord injury compared to vehicle control-treated mice. Phenelzine application upregulated L1 expression in the spinal cord and stimulated the cognate L1-mediated intracellular signaling cascades in the spinal cord tissue. Phenelzine-treated mice showed decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α in the injured spinal cord during the acute phase of inflammation.

Conclusions:

This study provides new insights into the role of phenelzine in L1-mediated neural functions and modulation of inflammation. The combined results raise hopes that phenelzine may develop into a therapeutic agent for nervous system injuries.
A feasibility study of combined intermittent theta burst stimulation and modified constraint-induced aphasia therapy in chronic post-stroke aphasia
Authors: Szaflarski Jerzy P. , Griffis Joseph , Vannest Jennifer , Allendorfer Jane B. , Nenert Rodolphe , Amara Amy W. , Sung Victor , Walker Harrison C. , Martin Amber N. , Mark Victor W. , Zhou Xiaohua
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

The purpose of this feasibility study was to assess whether combined intermittent theta burst suppression (iTBS) applied to the ipsilesional hemisphere and modified constraint-induced aphasia therapy (mCIAT) are safe and logistically feasible within the time interval associated with iTBS induced long-term potentiation in patients with post-stroke aphasia. We also wanted to determine whether combining priming with iTBS and CIAT improves language functions after treatment.

Methods:

Twelve participants received fMRI (semantic decision/tone decision task) and neuropsychological testing of language skills at three time points – before starting the iTBS/mCIAT intervention (T1), immediately after completing 2-week long course of intervention (T2), and at 3-months follow-up (T3). ITBS was applied to the individually determined fMRI language “hot spot” located in the left fronto-temporal regions.

Results:

There were no serious adverse events, and all mCIAT group therapy sessions (3–4 subjects each) were initiated within 30 minutes of the first group subject receiving iTBS. Neuropsychological assessments of language showed a significant effect of session on Western Aphasia Battery aphasia quotient (WAB-AQ; p = 0.04) and spontaneously correct responses on Boston Naming Test (BNT; p = 0.002), with improvement noted at T2 ( p = 0.002) and T3 ( p = 0.05) versus T1. FMRI showed significant changes between all timepoints. Post-hoc correlations showed associations between improvements in WAB-AQ from T2 to T3 and decreased BOLD signal in left inferior parietal lobe, and improvements in BNT from T1 to T3 with decreased signal in right inferior frontal gyrus.

Conclusion:

This study shows feasibility and safety for combining behavioral and neurostimulation interventions for chronic post-stroke aphasia. Observed changes in linguistic measures were relatively small. However, they were statistically significant and associated with parallel changes observed in the neuroimaging. Our findings support further development and testing of the combined mCIAT and iTBS protocol and comparisons to either CIAT/mCIAT or iTBS applied alone for the treatment of post-stroke aphasia.
Assessment of systemic administration of PEGylated IGF-1 in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Sama Diana M. , Carlson Shaun W. , Joseph Binoy , Saenger Stefanie , Metzger Friedrich , Saatman Kathryn E.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Traumatic brain injury can result in lasting cognitive dysfunction due to degeneration of mature hippocampal neurons as well as the loss of immature neurons within the dentate gyrus. While endogenous neurogenesis affords a partial recovery of the immature neuron population, hippocampal neurogenesis may be enhanced through therapeutic intervention. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) has the potential to improve cognitive function and promote neurogenesis after TBI, but its short half-life in the systemic circulation makes it difficult to maintain a therapeutic concentration. IGF-1 modified with a polyethylene glycol moiety (PEG-IGF-1) exhibits improved stability and half-life while retaining its ability to enter the brain from the periphery, increasing its viability as a translational approach.

Objective:

The goal of this study was to evaluate the ability of systemic PEG-IGF-1 administration to attenuate acute neuronal loss and stimulate the recovery of hippocampal immature neurons in brain-injured mice.

Methods:

In a series of studies utilizing a well-established contusion brain injury model, PEG-IGF-1 was administered subcutaneously after injury. Serum levels of PEG were verified using ELISA and histological staining was used to investigate numbers of degenerating neurons and cortical contusion size at 24 h after injury. Immunofluorescent staining was used to evaluate numbers of immature neurons at 10 d after injury.

Results:

Although subcutaneous injections of PEG-IGF-1 increased serum IGF-1 levels in a dose-dependent manner, no effects were observed on cortical contusion size, neurodegeneration within the dentate gyrus, or recovery of hippocampal immature neuron numbers.

Conclusions:

In contrast to its efficacy in rodent models of neurodegenerative diseases, PEG- IGF-1 was not effective in ameliorating early neuronal loss after contusion brain trauma.
Roads Not Taken: Alternative Views of the Empire
Authors: Murison Barbara C.
Published: June 2018

This article explores the work of the Scot Sir Alexander Murray of Stanhope and his The true interest of Great Britain, Ireland and our plantations. The article deals with his conceptualization of empire–the idea of the integration of Ireland and of the colonies into the metropolitan structure on the same basis as Scotland had been integrated in 1707, and their role at the centre of the empire. Other competing visions of the constitutional structure of the empire – strengthening of metropolitan authority at the expense of the colonies, and another which saw the union of the colonies themselves as crucial, with perhaps some overarching control from London – will also be explored. The place of Ireland in these debates will be discussed, as will the place of native populations in these schemes. Consideration is given to the motivation behind these kinds of suggestions; in Murray's case it was the opportunity to counter the threats posed by foreign powers and domestic factions.
Political Virtue and Capital Repatriation: A Jacobite Agenda for Empire
Authors: Macinnes Allan I.
Published: June 2018

This article analyses the global vision of the Jacobite Field-Marshal James Keith and his critique of the imperial aspirations of Britain and other leading European powers. His critical writings between 1748 and 1756 will be discussed and his promotion of a rational and liberal imperial agenda will be subject to scrutiny, as will his idea that commerce opened up the prospect for accumulation and repatriation of capital. Keith's scepticism that replacement of the Hanoverians by the exiled Stuarts would accomplish necessary moral reformation achieved by enlightened despotism in Prussia is also a key theme of the article. Scepticism is also applied to Keith's global vision. Can his compounding of political virtue with capital repatriation be regarded as a workable Jacobite agenda? This question will be examined with respect to rival agendas but mainly through the vehicle of case studies for Scottish engagement with Empire in the mid-eighteenth century.
Research on Fault Diagnosis of a Marine Fuel System Based on the SaDE-ELM Algorithm
Authors: Wei Yi , Yue Yaokun
Published: June 2018

Since the traditional fault diagnosis method of the marine fuel system has a low accuracy of identification, the algorithm solution can easily fall into local optimum, and they are not fit for the research on the fault diagnosis of a marine fuel system. Hence, a fault diagnosis method for a marine fuel system based on the SaDE-ELM algorithm is proposed. First, the parameters of initializing extreme learning machine are adopted by a differential evolution algorithm. Second, the fault diagnosis of the marine fuel system is realized by the fault diagnosis model corresponding to the state training of marine fuel system. Based on the obtained fault data of a marine fuel system, the proposed method is verified. The experimental results show that this method produces higher recognition accuracy and faster recognition speed that are superior to the traditional BP neural network, SVM support vector machine diagnosis algorithm, and the un-optimized extreme learning machine algorithm. The results have important significance relevant to fault diagnosis for a marine fuel system. The algorithm based on SaDE-ELM is an effective and practical method of fault diagnosis for a marine fuel system.
A Combined Syntactical and Statistical Approach for R Peak Detection in Real-Time Long-Term Heart Rate Variability Analysis
Authors: Pang David , Igasaki Tomohiko
Published: June 2018

Long-term heart rate variability (HRV) analysis is useful as a noninvasive technique for autonomic nervous system activity assessment. It provides a method for assessing many physiological and pathological factors that modulate the normal heartbeat. The performance of HRV analysis systems heavily depends on a reliable and accurate detection of the R peak of the QRS complex. Ectopic beats caused by misdetection or arrhythmic events can introduce bias into HRV results, resulting in significant problems in their interpretation. This study presents a novel method for long-term detection of normal R peaks (which represent the normal heartbeat in electrocardiographic signals), intended specifically for HRV analysis. The very low computational complexity of the proposed method, which combines and exploits the advantages of syntactical and statistical approaches, enables real-time applications. The approach was validated using the Massachusetts Institute of Technology–Beth Israel Hospital Normal Sinus Rhythm and the Fantasia database, and has a sensitivity, positive predictivity, detection error rate, and accuracy of 99.998, 99.999, 0.003, and 99.996%, respectively.
Utilisation of Ground and Airborne Optical Sensors for Nitrogen Level Identification and Yield Prediction in Wheat
Authors: Zecha Christoph W. , Peteinatos Gerassimos G. , Link Johanna , Claupein Wilhelm
Published: June 2018

A healthy crop growth ensures a good biomass development for optimal yield amounts and qualities. This can only be achieved with sufficient knowledge about field conditions. In this study we investigated the performance of optical sensors in large field trails, to predict yield and biomass characteristics. This publication investigated how information fusion can support farming decisions. We present the results of four site-year studies with one fluorescence sensor and two spectrometers mounted on a ground sensor platform, and one spectrometer built into a fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The measurements have been carried out in three winter wheat fields (Triticum aestivum L.) with different Nitrogen (N) levels. The sensor raw data have been processed and converted to features (indices and ratios) that correlate with field information and biological parameters. The aerial spectrometer indices showed correlations with the ground truth data only for site-year 2. FERARI (Fluorescence Excitation Ratio Anthocyanin Relative Index) and SFR (Simple Fluorescence Ratio) from the Multiplex® Research fluorometer (MP) in 2012 showed significant correlations with yield (Adj. r 2 ≤ 0.63), and the NDVI (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) and OSAVI (Optimized Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index) of the FieldSpec HandHeld sensor (FS) even higher correlations with an Adj. r 2 ≤ 0.67. Concerning the available N (N avail ), the REIP (Red-Edge Inflection Point) and CropSpec indices from the FS sensor had a high correlation (Adj. r 2 ≤ 0.86), while the MP ratio SFR was slightly lower (Adj. r 2 ≤ 0.67). Concerning the biomass weight, the REIP and SAVI indices had an Adj. r 2 ≤ 0.78, and the FERARI and SFR ratios an Adj. r 2 ≤ 0.85. The indices of the HandySpec Field ® spectrometer gave a lower significance level than the FS sensor, and lower correlations (Adj. r 2 ≤ 0.64) over all field measurements. The features of MP and FS sensor have been used to create a feature fusion model. A developed linear model for site-year 4 has been used for evaluating the rest of the data sets. The used model did not correlate on a significant de novo level but by changing only one parameter, it resulted in a significant correlation. The data analysis reveals that by increasing mixed features from different sensors in a model, the higher and more robust the r 2 values became. New advanced algorithms, in combination with existent map overlay approaches, have the potential of complete and weighted decision fusion, to ensure the maximum yield for each specific field condition.
Advancing Intercropping Research and Practices in Industrialized Agricultural Landscapes
Authors: Bybee-Finley K. , Ryan Matthew
Published: June 2018

Sustainable intensification calls for agroecological and adaptive management of the agrifood system. Here, we focus on intercropping and how this agroecological practice can be used to increase the sustainability of crop production. Strip, mixed, and relay intercropping can be used to increase crop yields through resource partitioning and facilitation. In addition to achieving greater productivity, diversifying cropping systems through the use of strategic intercrops can increase yield stability, reduce pests, and improve soil health. Several intercropping systems are already implemented in industrialized agricultural landscapes, including mixed intercropping with perennial grasses and legumes as forage and relay intercropping with winter wheat and red clover. Because intercropping can provide numerous benefits, researchers should be clear about their objectives and use appropriate methods so as to not draw spurious conclusions when studying intercrops. In order to advance the practice, experiments that test the effects of intercropping should use standardized methodology, and researchers should report a set of common criteria to facilitate cross-study comparisons. Intercropping with two or more crops appears to be less common with annuals than perennials, which is likely due to differences in the mechanisms responsible for complementarity. One area where intercropping with annuals in industrialized agricultural landscapes has advanced is with cover crops, where private, public, and governmental organizations have harmonized efforts to increase the adoption of cover crop mixtures.
Urban Sloths: Public Knowledge, Opinions, and Interactions
Authors: Pereira Kissia Ferreira , Young Robert John , Boere Vanner , Silva Ita de Oliveira e
Published: June 2018

Free-range sloths living in an urban environment are rare. In this study, the opinions, attitudes, and interactions with a population of Bradypus variegatus were investigated through short, structured interviews of people in the pubic square where the sloths live, in addition to informal, opportunistic observations of human-sloth interactions. A questionnaire was applied to people in the square where the sloths reside, and informal, opportunistic observations of human-sloth interactions were made. 95% of respondents knew of the sloths’ existence in the square and 87.8% liked their presence. Opinions about population size differed greatly and younger people were concerned as to whether the square was an appropriate place for them. Some human-sloth interactions showed the consequences of a lack of biological knowledge. People initiated all sloth-human interactions. The fact that sloths are strictly folivorous has avoided interactions with humans and, consequently, mitigated any negative impacts of the human-animal interaction on their wellbeing. These results demonstrate that, while there is a harmonious relationship between people and sloths, actions in environmental education of the square’s public could be beneficial for the sloths.
Allosteric Effects between the Antibody Constant and Variable Regions: A Study of IgA Fc Mutations on Antigen Binding
Authors: Su Chinh Tran-To , Lua Wai-Heng , Ling Wei-Li , Gan Samuel Ken-En
Published: June 2018

Therapeutic antibodies have shifted the paradigm of disease treatments from small molecules to biologics, especially in cancer therapy. Despite the increasing number of antibody candidates, much remains unknown about the antibody and how its various regions interact. Recent findings showed that the antibody constant region can govern localization effects that are useful in reducing side effects due to systemic circulation by the commonly used IgG isotypes. Given their localized mucosal effects, IgA antibodies are increasingly promising therapeutic biologics. While the antibody Fc effector cell activity has been a focus point, recent research showed that the Fc could also influence antigen binding, challenging the conventional idea of region-specific antibody functions. To investigate this, we analysed the IgA antibody constant region and its distal effects on the antigen binding regions using recombinant Pertuzumab IgA1 and IgA2 variants. We found that mutations in the C-region reduced Her2 binding experimentally, and computational structural analysis showed that allosteric communications were highly dependent on the antibody hinge, providing strong evidence that we should consider antibodies as whole proteins rather than a sum of functional regions.
The Dynamic Routing Protocol Implementation Strategy of the Cooperative Control Awareness Combat Network
Authors: Wu Cheng-Hai , Qin Kai-Yu , Li Ping , Wu Guo-Hui
Published: June 2018

In view of the problem of dynamically setting up a fire aiming data chain between the sensors and the shooters in the same battle echelon in the awareness combat network (ACNET) of the future unmanned collaborative combat system, based on the wireless mobile Ad-hoc network technology, a closed loop routing control model is built, in which the information transmitted in the ACNET is regarded as a continuous fluid according to the requirement of the transmission packet and its link state. Based on this model, a high-speed mobile dynamic real-time routing protocol (HDRRP) and its implementation method are proposed. The routing strategy combines the cellular network and Ad hoc to design a node state routing and mobile cellular routing mode and algorithm, and automatically selects the corresponding routing algorithm according to priority. Thus, the sensing information and the combat target strike are organically integrated, and the data are delivered at high speed and in a real-time, dynamic, and reliable way. The simulation results show that this protocol can greatly improve the packet delivery rate, and compared with the traditional wireless mobile Ad-hoc network, it can shorten the transmission delay, has a better anti interruption performance, and reduces control overhead, route discovery time, and routing maintenance time.
Developing and Evaluating a Virtual Reality-Based Navigation System for Pre-Sale Housing Sales
Authors: Juan Yi-Kai , Chen Hsing-Hung , Chi Hao-Yun
Published: June 2018

Virtual reality (VR) technologies have advanced rapidly in the past few years, and many industries have adopted these cutting-edge technologies for diverse applications to improve their industrial competitiveness. VR has also received considerable recognition in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries, because it can potentially reduce project costs, delivery time, and quality risks, by allowing users to experience unbuilt spaces before breaking ground, resolving construction conflicts virtually, and reviewing complex details in immersive environments. In the real estate market, VR can also play an important role in affecting buyers’ housing purchasing decisions, especially for housing markets in Asia, where the pre-sale system is extremely common. Applying VR to the pre-sale housing system is promising, because the concept of pre-sale refers to a strategy adopted by developers that sell housing through agreements on residential units that have not been constructed yet, and VR at this stage could be a useful tool for visual communication in a true-to-scale environment. However, does VR really benefit sales in the housing market? Can clients accept using VR, instead of using traditional materials (i.e., paper-based images and physical models), to navigate and experience housing projects? The objective of this study is to develop a VR-based navigation system for a pre-sale housing project in Taiwan. We invited 30 potential clients to test the system and explore the implications of using it for project navigation. The results reveal that VR enhances the understandings of a project (perceived usefulness) and increases clients’ intention to purchase, while the operation of VR (perceived ease-of-use) is still the major challenge to affect clients’ satisfaction and the developer’s acceptance with respect to applying it to future housing sales.
Arabidopsis Transcription Factor MYB102 Increases Plant Susceptibility to Aphids by Substantial Activation of Ethylene Biosynthesis
Authors: Zhu Lin , Guo Jiansheng , Ma Zhongyou , Wang Jianfei , Zhou Cheng
Published: June 2018

Induction of ethylene biosynthesis by aphids increases the susceptibility of several plant species to aphids. Recent studies have indicated that some MYB transcription factors regulate the phloem-based defense against aphid infestation by modulating ethylene (ET) signaling. Arabidopsis MYB102 has previously been shown to be induced by wound signaling and regulate defense response against chewing insects. However, it remains unclear whether Arabidopsis MYB102 takes part in the defense response of plants to aphids. Here, we investigated the function of MYB102 in the response of Arabidopsis to aphid infestation. Arabidopsis MYB102 was primarily expressed in vascular tissues, and its transcription was remarkably induced by green peach aphids (GPA; Myzus persicae). The results of RNA-Sequencing revealed that overexpression of MYB102 in Arabidopsis promoted ET biosynthesis by upregulation of some 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase (ACS) genes, which are rate-limiting enzymes of the ET-synthetic pathway. Enhanced ET levels led to reduced Arabidopsis resistance to GPA. Furthermore, dominant suppression of MYB102 inhibited aphid-induced increase of ET levels in Arabidopsis. In agreement with a negative regulatory role for ET in aphid defense responses, the MYB102-overexpressing lines were more susceptible to GPA than wild-type (WT) plants. Overexpression of MYB102 in Arabidopsis obviously repressed aphid-induced callose deposition. Conversely, overexpression of MYB102 failed to increase aphid susceptibility in both the ET-insensitive mutants and plants treated with inhibitors of ET signaling pathways, demonstrating that the ET was critical for promoting aphid performance conferred by overexpression of MYB102. Collectively, our findings indicate that the Arabidopsis MYB102 increases host susceptibility to GPA through the ET-dependent signaling pathways.
Determination of the Electrochemical Area of Screen-Printed Electrochemical Sensing Platforms
Authors: García-Miranda Ferrari Alejandro , Foster Christopher W. , Kelly Peter J. , Brownson Dale A. C. , Banks Craig E.
Published: June 2018

Screen-printed electrochemical sensing platforms, due to their scales of economy and high reproducibility, can provide a useful approach to translate laboratory-based electrochemistry into the field. An important factor when utilising screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) is the determination of their real electrochemical surface area, which allows for the benchmarking of these SPEs and is an important parameter in quality control. In this paper, we consider the use of cyclic voltammetry and chronocoulometry to allow for the determination of the real electrochemical area of screen-printed electrochemical sensing platforms, highlighting to experimentalists the various parameters that need to be diligently considered and controlled in order to obtain useful measurements of the real electroactive area.
The Role of Telehealth to Assist In-Home tDCS: Opportunities, Promising Results and Acceptability
Authors: Hordacre Brenton
Published: June 2018

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has shown great promise as a neuromodulatory intervention capable of improving behavioral outcomes in a range of neurological and psychiatric populations. Evidence indicates that the neuromodulatory effect of stimulation may be cumulative, with greater improvements in behavior observed following multiple treatment sessions. However, the requirement to attend clinical or research departments for multiple treatment sessions may present a barrier for many people, particularly those with greater disability or living remotely. The portability of tDCS suggests that in-home stimulation may become an avenue for further investigation. However, safe and effective use of tDCS by a participant within their home requires a form of monitoring. This review discusses how telehealth may provide real-time visual monitoring to ensure correct tDCS set-up and adherence to stimulation protocols, manage technical issues and monitor adverse events. The combination of telehealth to supplement in-home tDCS use has potential to transform the way tDCS is delivered.
Gain-of-Function (GOF) Mutant p53 as Actionable Therapeutic Target
Authors: Schulz-Heddergott Ramona , Moll Ute
Published: June 2018

p53 missense mutant alleles are present in nearly 40% of all human tumors. Such mutated alleles generate aberrant proteins that not only lose their tumor-suppressive functions but also frequently act as driver oncogenes, which promote malignant progression, invasion, metastasis, and chemoresistance, leading to reduced survival in patients and mice. Notably, these oncogenic gain-of-function (GOF) missense mutant p53 proteins (mutp53) are constitutively and tumor-specific stabilised. This stabilisation is one key pre-requisite for their GOF and is largely due to mutp53 protection from the E3 ubiquitin ligases Mdm2 and CHIP by the HSP90/HDAC6 chaperone machinery. Recent mouse models provide convincing evidence that tumors with highly stabilized GOF mutp53 proteins depend on them for growth, maintenance, and metastasis, thus creating exploitable tumor-specific vulnerabilities that markedly increase lifespan if intercepted. This identifies mutp53 as a promising cancer-specific drug target. This review discusses direct mutp53 protein-targeting drug strategies that are currently being developed at various preclinical levels.
An Iron-Based Catalyst with Multiple Active Components Synergetically Improved Electrochemical Performance for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhang Jian , Song Xiaoming , Li Ping , Wang Shuai , Wu Zexing , Liu Xien
Published: June 2018

Lack of highly active and stable non-precious metal catalysts (NPMCs) as an alternative to Pt for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in the application of zinc-air batteries and proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) significantly hinders the commercialization of these energy devices. Herein, we synthesize a new type of catalyst composed of nitrogen-coordinated and carbon-embedded metal (Fe-N/Fe3C/Fe/C) by pyrolyzing a precursor at 800 °C under argon atmosphere, and the precursor is obtained by heating a mixture of the tri (dipyrido [3,2-a:2′,3′-c] phenazinyl) phenylene and FeSO4 at 160 °C in a Teflon-lined stainless autoclave. The resultant Fe-N/Fe3C/Fe/C-800 exhibits the highest activity for the ORR with onset and half-wave potentials of 1.00 and 0.82 V in 0.1 M KOH, respectively. Furthermore, it also shows a potential ORR activity in 0.1 M HClO4, which is promising for the application in commercial PEMFCs. Most importantly, Fe-N/Fe3C/Fe/C-800 exhibits a comparable electrochemical performance to Pt/C for the application in zinc-air battery. The specific capacity approaches 700 mAh·g−1, and the maximum power density is also comparable to that of Pt/C at the current density of 200 mA·cm−2. The work opens up a simple strategy to prepare ORR electrocatalyts for zinc-air battery and PEMFCs.
Children’s Self-Perceived and Actual Motor Competence in Relation to Their Peers
Authors: Washburn Ryan , Kolen Angela
Published: June 2018

Motor skill competence enables children to move with efficiency and confidence in a variety of physically challenging situations. A child who lacks motor skill competence may be less inclined to take part in physical activities in which his or her peers excel. In this regard, the development of motor competence and children’s perception of their motor abilities may play an important role in ensuring sufficiently physically active adults. To better understand the role of motor competence in children’s participation in physical activity, this study examined children’s perception of their motor competence in comparison to others with their actual motor competence. Data were collected from 1031 children in grades 3, 4, 5, and 6 and between the ages of 8 to 12 years from elementary and junior schools. Using the Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy (CAPL) protocols, physical competence and perceived physical competence were obtained from the Canadian Agility and Movement Skill Assessment and the CAPL questionnaire, respectively. Results from this study support previous research as children’s ability to accurately perceive their motor competence increased with age/grade. Still, over half of the participants in this study were not able to accurately perceive their motor competence. In addition, as grade increased from 3 to 6, children over-estimated their abilities less and underestimated their abilities more. This lack of ability to accurately estimate their abilities may be impacting children’s level of physical activity and should be addressed when promoting physical activity.
Schisandra chinensis Protects the Skin from Global Pollution by Inflammatory and Redox Balance Pathway Modulations: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Ranouille Edwige , Boutot Carine , Bony Emilie , Bombarde Oriane , Grosjean Sarah , Lazewski Antoine , Berthon Jean-Yves , Filaire Edith
Published: June 2018

Epidemiological results show that airborne particulate matter (PM) induces health alterations in line with pulmonary and cardiovascular pathologies. Deleterious effects of PM on the skin have also been investigated. A possible approach to prevent Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)-mediated disorders for both preventive and treatment means is based on the use of substances, which can be found in plants. These can act as secondary metabolites, and lignans are a promising candidate. Thus, the objective of this study was firstly to identify reconstructed human epidermis, using a transcriptomic approach, and also to identify the effects of Urban Dust and of Urban Dust and Schisandra chinensis (S.C.) extract on the expression of genes that are involved in the response to cellular protection mechanisms. Secondly, we examined the effect of an active extract from S.C. on the protection of human keratinocytes damages that were caused by pollution, through the evaluation of Nrf2 and AhR pathways, NF-kB, and DJ-1. Urban Dust included the over-expression of metalloproteinases MMP-1 and MMP-9 and an increase in Glutathione peroxidase 2 (GPX2). In the presence of Urban Dust, S.C. extract activated the over-expression of several genes that are involved in the antioxidant response and in the detoxification pathway, including Ferritin light chain (FTL) and GPX2. Exposure to urban dust activated the cytoplasmic expression of NF-kB and AhR, when compared to the control. Co-treatment of Urban Dust and S.C. extract increased DJ-1 protein levels, Nrf2 expression, and decreased AhR and NF-kB in the cytoplasm. At the same time, this co-treatment increased SOD2 expression (50%: p < 0.001) and catalase activity (120%: p < 0.05), when compared to Urban Dust alone. Thus, S.C. might be able to protect the Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (NHEK) from environmental aggression, by fighting the harmful effects of urban pollution.
Announcing the 2018 Designs Travel Award
Authors: Karimi Hamid
Published: June 2018

The Designs Travel Award for 2018 has been granted to Mr. David Schmelzeisen, a PhD student from Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany. [...]