bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple magnetic transitions, Griffiths-like phase, and magnetoresistance in La2CrMnO6
Authors: Palakkal Jasnamol Pezhumkattil , Raj Sankar Cheriyedath , Varma Manoj Raama
Published: August 2017

DC and AC magnetic measurements indicate the presence of multiple magnetic transitions arising from the competing magnetic interaction between Cr and Mn in the perovskite La2CrMnO6. Ferromagnetic and spin glass transitions are observed in La2CrMnO6. The material also has a Griffith-like phase with the occurrence of ferromagnetic short range correlations above TC. The system ultimately turns into paramagnetic at the Griffiths temperature 180 K. A combination of variable range hopping, and the nearest neighbor small polaron hopping governs the conduction mechanism in the material. A negative magnetoresistance of 22% at 105 K is observed for the material at 90 kOe which increases to 29% near 110 K and reduces gradually to zero on further increase in the temperature.
Pair correlation functions of strongly coupled two-temperature plasma
Authors: Shaffer Nathaniel R. , Tiwari Sanat Kumar , Baalrud Scott D.
Published: August 2017

Using molecular dynamics simulations, we perform the first direct tests of three proposed models for the pair correlation functions of strongly coupled plasmas with species of unequal temperature. The models are all extensions of the Ornstein–Zernike/hypernetted-chain theory used to good success for equilibrium plasmas. Each theory is evaluated at several coupling strengths, temperature ratios, and mass ratios for a model plasma in which the electrons are positively charged. We show that the model proposed by Seuferling et al. [Phys. Rev. A 40, 323 (1989)] agrees well with molecular dynamics over a wide range of mass and temperature ratios, as well as over a range of coupling strength similar to that of the equilibrium hypernetted-chain (HNC) theory. The SVT model also correctly predicts the strength of interspecies correlations and exhibits physically reasonable long-wavelength limits of the static structure factors. Comparisons of the SVT model with the Yukawa one-component plasma (YOCP) model are used to show that ion-ion pair correlations are well described by the YOCP model up to Γe≈1, beyond which it rapidly breaks down.
Trap center study in hybrid organic-inorganic perovskite using thermally stimulated current (TSC) analysis
Authors: Gordillo G. , Otálora C. A. , Reinoso M. A.
Published: August 2017

This paper presents results of a study that allowed identifying states of traps in thin films of hybrid organic-inorganic perovskite compounds based on methylammonium lead halide with different compositions CH3NH3PbX3 (X is Cl, Br or I) prepared by spin-coating, through Thermally Stimulated Current (TSC) measurements. Special emphasis was done in studying the influence of the composition and adsorption of oxygen on the depth of traps and on the density of states associated with trapping centers. Deconvolution of the TSC curves obtained from measurements made inside a vacuum chamber under different oxygen partial pressures, revealed the presence of traps centers whose activation energies are affected by the oxygen concentration. It was also found that TSC peaks do not appear in TSC measurements carried out at pressures less than 0.1 mbar, indicating that the possible nature of the identified traps centers is related to oxygen adsorbed superficially and/or located into the grain boundaries.
The lightning striking probability for offshore wind turbine blade with salt fog contamination
Authors: Li Qingmin , Ma Yufei , Guo Zixin , Ren Hanwen , Wang Guozheng , Arif Waqas , Fang Zhiyang , Siew Wah Hoon
Published: August 2017

The blades of an offshore wind turbine are prone to be adhered with salt fog after long-time exposure in the marine-atmosphere environment, and salt fog reduces the efficiency of the lightning protection system. In order to study the influence of salt fog on lightning striking probability (LSP), the lightning discharge process model for the wind turbine blade is adopted in this paper considering the accumulation mechanism of surface charges around the salt fog area. The distribution of potential and electric field with the development of the downward leader is calculated by COMSOL Multiphysics LiveLink for MATLAB. A quantitative characterization method is established to calculate the LSP base on the average electric field before the return stroke and the LSP distribution of the blade is shown in the form of a graphic view. The simulation results indicate that the receptor and conductor area close to the receptor area are more likely to get struck by lightning, and the LSP increases under the influence of salt fog. The validity of the model is verified by experiments. Furthermore, the receptor can protect the blade from lightning strikes effectively when the lateral distance between the rod electrode and receptor is short. The influence of salt fog on LSP is more obvious if salt fog is close to the receptor or if the scope of salt fog area increases.
Dual cavity modes in photonic microcavity-integrated graphene
Authors: Sattari M. , Pourali N. , Sadri B.
Published: August 2017

The interaction of dual-micro-cavity defect modes in a one-dimensional photonic crystal consisting of graphene layers is studied by using the transfer matrix method. The numerical relation of resonances and splitting condition of them are determined in this structure. Results show that for specific repetition numbers of surrounding and middle cells of the structure, a defect mode is split into two completely separated modes. Also, threshold states for merging the defect modes are determined for different amounts of these parameters. In addition, the transmission coefficients and the Faraday rotation angles of these states are calculated and compared with each other. By calculation of light intensity distribution inside the structure at resonance wavelengths, we present consistent qualitative interpretation of the analytical results. The information achieved by this research can be useful to fabricate a variety of graphene-based photonic systems and magneto-optical integrated devices such as miniaturized isolators and circulators.
Influence of the gate position on source-to-drain resistance in AlGaN/AlN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors
Authors: Liu Yan , Lin Zhaojun , Cui Peng , Zhao Jingtao , Fu Chen , Yang Ming , Lv Yuanjie
Published: August 2017

Using a suitable dual-gate structure, the source-to-drain resistance (RSD) of AlGaN/AlN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistor (HFET) with varying gate position has been studied at room temperature. The theoretical and experimental results have revealed a dependence of RSD on the gate position. The variation of RSD with the gate position is found to stem from the polarization Coulomb field (PCF) scattering. This finding is of great benefit to the optimization of the performance of AlGaN/AlN/GaN HFET. Especially, when the AlGaN/AlN/GaN HFET works as a microwave device, it is beneficial to achieve the impedance matching by designing the appropriate gate position based on PCF scattering.
Aerodynamics and CFD analysis of equal size dual-rotor wind turbine
Authors: Sundararaju Haripriya , Lo King H. , Metcalfe Ralph , Wang Su Su
Published: August 2017

The linear momentum theory is used to analyze the power-extraction capability of dual-rotor wind turbines with equal-size rotors. The rotors of a dual-rotor wind turbine are modeled as two separate actuator disks. The stream tube encompassing the front rotor is modeled as two (inner and outer) stream tubes, with the rear rotor being fully enclosed within the front rotor inner stream tube. No assumption is made on airflow pressure in between the rotors. The effect of the front and rear rotor interaction on the airflow within the inner stream tube is included in the analysis. With the results obtained, axial thrusts on front and rear rotors are determined and later used as input for computational fluid dynamics simulation to determine flow characteristics across the rotors. Based on the flow pattern between the rotors, the total power coefficient of a dual-rotor wind turbine is related to the rotor separation distance. A general solution for the dual-rotor wind turbine is developed, which shows that the largest total power coefficient that can be obtained is 0.814, occurring at a rotor separation distance of 2.8 times the rotor diameter. The results of this study are compared with those obtained by similar studies reported in the literature. Discrepancies in the largest possible power coefficient of dual-rotor wind turbines reported in various investigations are examined and discussed.
Scientists uncover details of seafloor sediment dispersion in the Pacific ocean
Authors: Lugo Ryan
Published: August 2017

Using a smoothed particle hydrodynamics model, researchers study sediment dispersion caused by polymetallic nodule harvesting.
Water coaxed to emit terahertz radiation
Authors: Larter Raima
Published: August 2017

Water film subjected to pulsed laser emits unexpected radiation, offering possibility for inexpensive imaging devices.
Phylogenetic measures of neo- and palaeo-endemism in the indigenous vascular flora of the New Zealand archipelago
Authors: Heenan Peter B. , Millar Timothy R. , Smissen Rob D. , McGlone Matt S. , Wilton Aaron D.
Published: August 2017

Categorical analysis of neo- and palaeo-endemism (CANAPE), phylogenetic diversity (PD) and phylogenetic weighted endemism (PWE) were used to explore patterns of diversity, endemism and biogeography in the indigenous vascular flora of the New Zealand archipelago. Distributional data comprising 213142 records for 436 genera and 2187 species and a phylogeny based mainly on rbcL sequences were used to calculate neo- and palaeo-endemism biodiversity metrics for 0.12° grid cells. Genus- and species-level analyses of PD revealed few significantly high-value cells mostly scattered in the northern North Island, and, for PWE, significantly high-value cells were concentrated in the northern North Island and northern offshore islands. CANAPE analyses suggested that palaeo-endemism is concentrated in northern North Island and the northern offshore islands, whereas neo-endemism is concentrated in South Island and the southern offshore islands. The areas of endemism highlighted by our analyses are compared with earlier biogeographic studies of endemism in the New Zealand flora. Some revision of previously suggested biogeographic boundaries is proposed, with the boundaries of the central South Island alpine gap being further north than previous studies have inferred, and the possibility that Pliocene marine transgression contributed to shaping the central North Island palaeo-endemism boundary is discussed.
Song translation and AVT
Authors: Jiménez Rocío García
Published: August 2017

There is no doubt that music plays an important role in people’s lives and, consequently, in different societies and cultures. Through music, the distinctive features of societies and cultures can be appreciated, while, at the same time, its condition of universal language acts as a means of communication among them. Translation Studies has recently started to pay attention to the relationship between translation and music. The study of the translation of songs, opera and other musical products is a subject that can enrich the field. In addition to this, owing to the peculiar nature of the musical text, the translation of music can be linked to other disciplines within Translation Studies, as is the case with AVT. In this work, we will analyse the similarities and differences between AVT and song translation. We will show that some of the translation strategies used in AVT can be applied to other types of multimodal translation, like song translation. We will also consider some cases in which song translation becomes part of AVT, as happens in the translation of TV series or films in which there are songs.
Translating the socialist nation
Authors: Ni Xiuhua
Published: August 2017

The first seventeen years of the People’s Republic of China (PRC, 1949–1966) was a critical period for the newly established nation to gain international recognition. The period witnessed a unique translation activity, i.e. SL-generated translation of a large number of classical and modern Chinese literature into English and other foreign languages. These state-sponsored translations were mainly undertaken by teams of Chinese and foreign translators in the Foreign Languages Press (FLP) in Beijing. This paper aims to explore how literary translation was used for nation branding and promoting Chinese communism abroad. It reveals the political agenda behind the outward translation activity. It goes on to probe into the patronage of the FLP to disclose the relationship between the translating institution and the political discourse on the nation. Lastly, the study of the English translation of Linhai Xueyuan (林海雪原), i.e. Tracks in the Snowy Forest, a bestseller representative of the ‘revolutionary novel’ of the time, will show that the adaptations aim at recasting revolutionary characters as “perfect” heroes so as to project an ideal image of the modern Chinese nation. The paper concludes with a call to integrate outward translation into TS. Based on Luhmann’s sociology of communication it provides a preliminary observation on the reception of the PRC’s export enterprise, which, more often than not, turned out to be counterproductive.
Linguistic evaluation of translation errors in Chinese–English machine translations of patent titles
Authors: Tsai Yvonne
Published: August 2017

The title of an invention allows the reader to understand the significance of a patent claim, and the wording of the title recurs throughout the subsequent patent documentation. If the translation of the title is erroneous, the quality of the translation in other parts of the patent documentation also suffers. This research involved using linguistic evaluation to identify common translation errors in Chinese–English machine translations of patent titles and examine the quality of machine-translated patent titles. Special focus was placed on orthographic, morphological, lexical, semantic, and syntactic errors found in patent titles. We sought to answer the following questions: (1) What are the trends in the application of machine translation in the Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO)? (2) How is the quality of machine translation controlled at TIPO? (3) What are common errors in machine-translated patent titles? Through analysis of our findings, it is possible to estimate the level of effort required from a posteditor following translation, and to suggest methods of improving machine translations of patent titles. This study also generates information applicable to the training of patent translators and posteditors.
Microstructure and wear resistance of Co-based/Cr3C2 coatings with CeO2
Authors: Chen Yao , Chao Y. J. , Luo Zhen , Cai Yangchuan , Ma Chengyong
Published: August 2017

Metal–ceramic composite powders consisted of the single self-fluxing alloys reinforced with ceramic particles such as WC, Cr3C2 and TiC. Co-based/Cr3C2 composite coatings with CeO2 were prepared on Cr12MoV surface by laser cladding process. The dilution ratio, microstructure and phases of the coatings were analysed by scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Microhardness and wear behaviour were measured by digital microhardness tester and dry sliding wear tester, respectively. The obtained results demonstrated that adding CeO2 to the coatings could result in the decrease in dilution ratio. CeO2, with the appropriate amounts, could validly refine the grain and reduce interplanar spacing. Phases of the coatings principally included γ-Co, Cr23C6 and some undissolved Cr3C2. New compounds Ce2Co17, Ce6Ni7Si4 appeared with CeO2 addition. However, the specific shape of undissolved Cr3C2 particles was hardly observed. Furthermore, both microhardness and wear resistance of the coatings were improved after adding CeO2.
Expression of a Vibrio parahaemolyticus toxin in Escherichia coli results in chromosomal DNA degradation
Authors: Zhang Jing , Taniguchi Saki , Ito Hironori , Iiyama Kazuhiro , Hino Madoka , Katayama Tsutomu , Kimura Makoto
Published: August 2017

A toxin-antitoxin system, vp1842/vp1843, locates within a superintegron on the Vibrio parahaemolyticus genome chromosome I whose toxin gene vp1843 encodes a DNA nicking endonuclease. We found that the vp1843 expression in Escherichia coli cells strongly induced chromosomal DNA degradation. On the basis of these observations, we discuss a possible physiological role of vp1842/vp1843 in V. parahaemolyticus.
Remember some or remember all? Ageing and strategy effects in visual working memory
Authors: Atkinson Amy L , Baddeley Alan D , Allen Richard J
Published: August 2017

Recent research has indicated that visual working memory capacity for unidimensional items might be boosted by focusing on all presented items, as opposed to a subset of them. However, it is not clear whether the same outcomes would be observed if more complex items were used which require feature binding, a potentially more demanding task. The current experiments, therefore, examined the effects of encoding strategy using multidimensional items in tasks that required feature binding. Effects were explored across a range of different age groups (Experiment 1) and task conditions (Experiment 2). In both experiments, participants performed significantly better when focusing on a subset of items, regardless of age or methodological variations, suggesting this is the optimal strategy to use when several multidimensional items are presented and binding is required. Implications for task interpretation and visual working memory function are discussed.
Panel Effects and Opinion Crafting in the US Courts of Appeals
Authors: Hinkle Rachael K.
Published: August 2017

Scholars have observed that federal circuit judges’ voting behavior can be influenced by even a single colleague on a three-judge panel. I explore whether such forces extend beyond voting to affect how circuit judges use binding precedent to develop circuit law, by examining whether the role of ideology is dampened when a judge writes for a panel that includes one or two colleagues from a different party. Using an original data set of published search-and-seizure opinions from 1953 to 2010, I uncover evidence that panel effects do extend beyond voting to influence opinion drafting as well.
Strategic Retirement in Comparative Perspective: Supreme Court Justices in Presidential Regimes
Authors: Pérez-Liñán Aníbal , Araya Ignacio Arana
Published: August 2017

Students of judicial behavior debate whether justices time their retirement to allow for the nomination of like-minded judges. We formalize the assumptions of strategic retirement theory and derive precise hypotheses about the conditions that moderate the effect of partisan incentives on judicial retirements. The empirical implications are tested with evidence for Supreme Court members under democracies and dictatorships in six presidential regimes between 1900 and 2004. The theory of strategic retirement finds limited support in the United States and elsewhere. We conclude that researchers should emphasize “sincere” motivations for retirement, progressive political ambitions, and—crucial in weakly institutionalized legal systems—political pressures.
Electron emission from water molecule in collisions with fast highly charged C, O and Si-ions and scaling law
Authors: Bhattacharjee S. , Bagdia C. D. , Chowdhury M. R. , Monti J. , Rivarola R. D. , Misra D. , Tribedi L. C.
Published: August 2017

Synopsis

Double differential cross sections (DDCS) of vapor phase water molecules by similar velocity C6+, O8+ and Si13+ ion impact have been measured by the electron spectroscopy technique. The total ionization cross sections (TCS) were obtained by numerical integration of the DDCS results. All the existing data have been plotted after scaling. Gradual deviation of the TCS from the first Born predicted qp
2–scaling has been observed.
Systematic gene tagging using CRISPR/Cas9 in human stem cells to illuminate cell organization
Authors: Roberts Brock , Haupt Amanda , Tucker Andrew , Grancharova Tanya , Arakaki Joy , Fuqua Margaret A. , Nelson Angelique , Hookway Caroline , Ludmann Susan A. , Mueller Irina A. , Yang Ruian , Horwitz Rick , Rafelski Susanne M. , Gunawardane Ruwanthi N.
Published: August 2017

We present a CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing strategy to systematically tag endogenous proteins with fluorescent tags in human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC). To date, we have generated multiple hiPSC lines with monoallelic green fluorescent protein tags labeling 10 proteins representing major cellular structures. The tagged proteins include alpha tubulin, beta actin, desmoplakin, fibrillarin, nuclear lamin B1, nonmuscle myosin heavy chain IIB, paxillin, Sec61 beta, tight junction protein ZO1, and Tom20. Our genome-editing methodology using Cas9/crRNA ribonuclear protein and donor plasmid coelectroporation, followed by fluorescence-based enrichment of edited cells, typically resulted in <0.1–4% homology-directed repair (HDR). Twenty-five percent of clones generated from each edited population were precisely edited. Furthermore, 92% (36/39) of expanded clonal lines displayed robust morphology, genomic stability, expression and localization of the tagged protein to the appropriate subcellular structure, pluripotency-marker expression, and multilineage differentiation. It is our conclusion that, if cell lines are confirmed to harbor an appropriate gene edit, pluripotency, differentiation potential, and genomic stability are typically maintained during the clonal line–generation process. The data described here reveal general trends that emerged from this systematic gene-tagging approach. Final clonal lines corresponding to each of the 10 cellular structures are now available to the research community.
Selection Effects and Heterogeneous Demand Responses to the Berkeley Soda Tax Vote
Authors: Debnam Jakina
Published: August 2017

Early evidence from household‐level surveys suggests that the one‐cent‐per‐ounce tax on sugar‐sweetened beverages that took effect on March 1, 2015, in Berkeley, California, has decreased consumption of sugar‐sweetened beverages dramatically. Even if these findings are robust, the public policy implications of expanding the Berkeley soda tax policy to a national level are complicated by selection effects inherent in the populations of both voters and consumers. We find that consumption responses related to the tax interact nontrivially with consumer heterogeneity. Some of these responses directly counter the public policy goals of a soda tax. For example, high‐consuming households are less price sensitive and therefore less responsive to price changes following a tax. Further, “reactance” among high‐consuming populations led to increases in soda consumption immediately following the passage of the tax, partially mitigating reductions in soda consumption.
Implementing electronic health records (EHRs): health care provider perceptions before and after transition from a local basic EHR to a commercial comprehensive EHR
Authors: Krousel-Wood Marie , McCoy Allison B , Ahia Chad , Holt Elizabeth W , Trapani Donnalee N , Luo Qingyang , Price-Haywood Eboni G , Thomas Eric J , Sittig Dean F , Milani Richard V
Published: August 2017

Objective

We assessed changes in the percentage of providers with positive perceptions of electronic health record (EHR) benefit before and after transition from a local basic to a commercial comprehensive EHR.

Methods

Changes in the percentage of providers with positive perceptions of EHR benefit were captured via a survey of academic health care providers before (baseline) and at 6–12 months (short term) and 12–24 months (long term) after the transition. We analyzed 32 items for the overall group and by practice setting, provider age, and specialty using separate multivariable-adjusted random effects logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 223 providers completed all 3 surveys (30% response rate): 85.6% had outpatient practices, 56.5% were >45 years old, and 23.8% were primary care providers. The percentage of providers with positive perceptions significantly increased from baseline to long-term follow-up for patient communication, hospital transitions – access to clinical information, preventive care delivery, preventive care prompt, preventive lab prompt, satisfaction with system reliability, and sharing medical information (P < .05 for each). The percentage of providers with positive perceptions significantly decreased over time for overall satisfaction, productivity, better patient care, clinical decision quality, easy access to patient information, monitoring patients, more time for patients, coordination of care, computer access, adequate resources, and satisfaction with ease of use (P < 0.05 for each). Results varied by subgroup.

Conclusion

After a transition to a commercial comprehensive EHR, items with significant increases and significant decreases in the percentage of providers with positive perceptions of EHR benefit were identified, overall and by subgroup.
Facing Dominance: Anthropomorphism and the Effect of Product Face Ratio on Consumer Preference
Authors: Maeng Ahreum , Aggarwal Pankaj
Published: August 2017

A product’s front face (e.g., a watch face or car front) is typically the first point of contact and a key determinant of a consumer’s initial impression about the product. Drawing on evolutionary accounts of human face perception suggesting that the face width-to-height ratio (fWHR: bizygomatic width divided by upper-face height) can signal dominance and affect its overall evaluation, this research is based on the premise that product faces are perceived in much the same way as human faces. Five experiments tested this premise. Results suggest that like human faces, product faces with high (vs. low) fWHR are perceived as more dominant. However, while human faces with high fWHR are liked less, product faces with high fWHR are liked more as revealed by consumer preference and willingness-to-pay scores. The greater preference for the high fWHR product faces is motivated by the consumers’ desire to enhance and signal their own dominant status as evidenced by the moderating effects of type of goal and of usage context. Brand managers and product designers may be particularly interested in these findings since a simple design feature can have potentially significant marketplace impact, as was also confirmed by the field data obtained from secondary sources.
Cancer mortality in residents of the terrain-shielded area exposed to fallout from the Nagasaki atomic bombing
Authors: Yokota Kenichi , Mine Mariko , Kondo Hisayoshi , Matsuda Naoki , Shibata Yoshisada , Takamura Noboru
Published: August 2017

The health effects of radiation exposure from the atomic bomb fallout remain unclear. The objective of the present study is to elucidate the association between low-dose radiation exposure from the atomic bomb fallout and cancer mortality among Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors. Of 77 884 members in the Nagasaki University Atomic Bomb Survivors Cohort, 610 residents in the terrain-shielded area with fallout were selected for this analysis; 1443 residents in the terrain-shielded area without fallout were selected as a control group; and 3194 residents in the direct exposure area were also selected for study. Fifty-two deaths due to cancer in the terrain-shielded fallout area were observed during the follow-up period from 1 January 1970 to 31 December 2012. The hazard ratio for cancer mortality in the terrain-shielded fallout area was 0.90 (95% confidence interval: 0.65–1.24). No increase in the risk of cancer mortality was observed, probably because the dose of the radiation exposure was low for residents in the terrain-shielded fallout areas of the Nagasaki atomic bomb, and also because the number of study subjects was small.
Accelerated tidal circularization via resonance locking in KIC 8164262
Authors: Fuller Jim , Hambleton Kelly , Shporer Avi , Isaacson Howard , Thompson Susan
Published: August 2017

Tidal dissipation in binary star and planetary systems is poorly understood. Fortunately, eccentric binaries known as heartbeat stars often exhibit tidally excited oscillations, providing observable diagnostics of tidal circularization mechanisms and time-scales. We apply tidal theories to observations of the heartbeat star KIC 8164262, which contains an F-type primary in a very eccentric orbit that exhibits a prominent tidally excited oscillation. We demonstrate that the prominent oscillation is unlikely to result from a chance resonance between tidal forcing and a stellar oscillation mode. However, the oscillation has a frequency and amplitude consistent with the prediction of resonance locking, a mechanism in which coupled stellar and orbital evolution maintain a stable resonance between tidal forcing and a stellar oscillation mode. The resonantly excited mode produces efficient tidal dissipation (corresponding to an effective tidal quality factor Q ∼ 5 × 104), such that tidal orbital decay/circularization proceeds on a stellar evolution time-scale.
The quasar luminosity function at redshift 4 with the Hyper Suprime-Cam Wide Survey
Authors: Akiyama Masayuki , He Wanqiu , Ikeda Hiroyuki , Niida Mana , Nagao Tohru , Bosch James , Coupon Jean , Enoki Motohiro , Imanishi Masatoshi , Kashikawa Nobunari , Kawaguchi Toshihiro , Komiyama Yutaka , Lee Chien-Hsiu , Matsuoka Yoshiki , Miyazaki Satoshi , Nishizawa Atsushi J , Oguri Masamune , Ono Yoshiaki , Onoue Masafusa , Ouchi Masami , Schulze Andreas , Silverman John D , Tanaka Manobu M , Tanaka Masayuki , Terashima Yuichi , Toba Yoshiki , Ueda Yoshihiro
Published: August 2017

We present the luminosity function of z ∼ 4 quasars based on the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program Wide layer imaging data in the g, r, i, z, and y bands covering 339.8 deg2. From stellar objects, 1666 z ∼ 4 quasar candidates are selected via the g-dropout selection down to i = 24.0 mag. Their photometric redshifts cover the redshift range between 3.6 and 4.3, with an average of 3.9. In combination with the quasar sample from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey in the same redshift range, a quasar luminosity function covering the wide luminosity range of M1450 = −22 to −29 mag is constructed. The quasar luminosity function is well described by a double power-law model with a knee at M1450 = −25.36 ± 0.13 mag and a flat faint-end slope with a power-law index of −1.30 ± 0.05. The knee and faint-end slope show no clear evidence of redshift evolution from those seen at z ∼ 2. The flat slope implies that the UV luminosity density of the quasar population is dominated by the quasars around the knee, and does not support the steeper faint-end slope at higher redshifts reported at z > 5. If we convert the M1450 luminosity function to the hard X-ray 2–10 keV luminosity function using the relation between the UV and X-ray luminosity of quasars and its scatter, the number density of UV-selected quasars matches well with that of the X-ray-selected active galactic nuclei (AGNs) above the knee of the luminosity function. Below the knee, the UV-selected quasars show a deficiency compared to the hard X-ray luminosity function. The deficiency can be explained by the lack of obscured AGNs among the UV-selected quasars.
Novel molecular defects associated with very early-onset inflammatory bowel
Authors: Ciullini Mannurita Sara , Gambineri Eleonora
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

Immune dysregulation disorders present with common clinical features of multiorgan autoimmunity. Gastrointestinal involvement is the hallmark of an impaired immune homeostasis. This review will give an overview on the novel phenotypes, highlighting the major points that will help to enable early diagnosis and treatment.

Recent findings

The rapid progress on DNA sequencing technologies have led to the identification of monogenic defects that adversely impact the control of immune homeostasis. Lymphocytes may be present but dysfunctional, allowing for the development of excessive autoreactivity and resultant autoimmune disease. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an essential role in enforcing immune tolerance. Here we illustrate disorders caused by impairment of mechanisms ensuring Tregs function (Tregs related) in which autoimmunity is a hallmark of the clinical disease presentation and other disorders, affecting molecules more broadly involved in immune responses and indirectly causing immune dysregulation (Tregs unrelated). Clinical presentation is sometime mischievous and often symptoms are analogous in different diseases and can mislead diagnosis.

The increasing comprehension of immunological concepts behind immune dysregulation diseases will allow better and in some cases possibly even targeted treatment. A genetic diagnosis therefore becomes important information in this group of patients, especially as some patients might require hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Posttraumatic Stress in Mothers While Their Preterm Infants Are in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Beck Cheryl Tatano , Woynar Jennifer
Published: August 2017

In this mixed research synthesis on posttraumatic stress in mothers related to their preterm infants' stay in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU), we synthesized and integrated a total of 37 studies, 25 of which were quantitative and 12 were qualitative studies. The prevalence rates of NICU mothers with elevated posttraumatic stress symptoms ranged from 18% in the United States to 81% in Turkey. Nine of the 12 studies testing interventions to decrease mothers' stress related to their NICU experiences reported significant results. Content analysis of the qualitative studies' findings revealed 5 themes: stark contrast to images of joyous motherhood, cultural overlay, issues of ownership and control, support, and learning to be a NICU mother.
Characteristics of Reviews Published in Nursing Literature
Authors: Toronto Coleen E. , Quinn Brenna L. , Remington Ruth
Published: August 2017

Integrative and systematic reviews present synthesized research. Scholars have called for increased rigor and reporting in reviews. The purpose of this methodological review was to describe the characteristics of nurse-led reviews. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines directed the review process. Many reviews did not clearly report the search strategy used and methods for data extraction and quality appraisal, indicating that there has not been an increase in rigor. Authors of reviews are encouraged to report sufficient methodological details, so peer reviewers and consumers can determine whether the methods were rigorous enough to contribute meaningful results.
Presentation Coagulopathy and Persistent Acidosis Predict Complications in Orthopaedic Trauma Patients
Authors: Childs Benjamin R. , Verhotz Daniel R. , Moore Timothy A. , Vallier Heather A.
Published: August 2017

Objectives:

To evaluate the ability of measures of coagulopathy and acidosis to predict complications. We hypothesize that increased coagulopathy and acidosis over the first 60 hours of hospitalization will result in increased rates of infection and mortality.

Design:

Prospective, observational.

Setting:

Level 1 trauma center.

Patients:

Three hundred seventy-six skeletally mature patients with an Injury Severity Score greater than 16, who were surgically treated for high-energy fractures of the femur, pelvic ring, acetabulum, and/or spine.

Main Outcome Measurements:

Data included measures of acidosis, pH, lactate, and base excess, and measures of coagulopathy, Prothrombin (PT), Partial Throunboplastin Time (PTT), International Normalized Ratio (INR), and platelets. Complications including pneumonia, deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, infection, organ failure, acute renal failure, sepsis, and death were documented.

Results:

Acidosis was common on presentation (88.8%) and decreased over 48 hours (50.4%). Incidence of coagulopathy increased over 48 hours (16.3%–34.3%). Coagulopathy on presentation was associated with complications (54.0% vs. 27.7%) including pneumonia, acute renal failure, multiple organ failure, infection, sepsis, and death. Acidosis was associated with complications if it persisted later in the hospital course.

Conclusion:

Coagulopathy on presentation is a stronger predictor of complications, sepsis, and death than acidosis. During the first 48 hours, unresolved acidosis increased the risk of complications and sepsis. Complications were most related to higher Injury Severity Score.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Is Lateral Femoral Nailing Associated With Increased Intensive Care Unit Days? A Propensity-Matched Analysis of 848 Cases
Authors: Reahl G. Bradley , O'Hara Nathan N. , Coale Max , O'Hara Lyndsay M. , Castillo Renan , O'Toole Robert V. , Slobogean Gerard P.
Published: August 2017

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to determine if lateral patient position during femoral nailing is associated with increases in intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) or ventilator days when compared with femoral nailing in a supine position.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Level 1 trauma center.

Patients/Participants:

Patients with femoral shaft fractures treated with intramedullary fixation were identified. Propensity matching was performed to minimize selection bias using factors thought to be associated with surgeon selection of supine nailing at our institution (Injury Severity Score, Abbreviated Injury Score brain, and bilateral fractures). After matching, 848 patients were included in the analysis.

Intervention:

Femoral nailing in the lateral position compared with the supine position.

Main Outcome Measurements:

Our primary outcome measure was ICU LOS. Ventilator days were the secondary outcome.

Results:

Treating patients with femoral nailing in the lateral position was associated with a 1.88 days (95% confidence interval, 0.73–3.02; P = 0.001) reduction in ICU LOS in our adjusted model. Intramedullary nailing in the lateral position was associated with a 1.29 days (95% confidence interval, −0.12 to 2.69) decrease in postoperative time on a ventilator. However, this finding was not statistically significant (P = 0.07).

Conclusion:

Lateral femoral nailing was associated with decreased ICU LOS (P = 0.001) even after accounting for selection bias using propensity score matching. Our data indicate that lateral femoral nailing is likely not associated with the increased risk of pulmonary complication.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Tissue Engineered Bone Differentiated From Human Adipose Derived Stem Cells Inhibit Posterolateral Fusion in an Athymic Rat Model
Authors: Saifi Comron , Bernhard Jonathan , Shillingford Jamal N. , Petridis Petros , Robinson Samuel , Guo X. Edward , Weidenbaum Mark , Lehman Ronald A. , An Howard S. , Lenke Lawrence G. , Vunjak-Novakovic Gordana , Laratta Joseph L.
Published: August 2017

Study Design.

Biological augmentation spinal arthrodesis trial in athymic rats.

Objective.

To assess the efficacy of tissue-engineered bone to promote L4-L5 intertransverse process fusion in an athymic rat model.

Summary of Background Data.

Each year in the United States, over 400,000 spinal fusion surgeries are performed requiring bone graft. The current gold standard for posterolateral lumbar fusion is autogenous iliac crest bone graft (ICBG), but the harvesting of ICBG is associated with increased operative time and significant complications. This being the case, an alternative cost-effective bone graft source is needed.

Methods.

Bovine bone cores were sterilized and decellularized for scaffold production. Human adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSC) were obtained and verified by tridifferentiation testing and seeded onto dried scaffolds. The seeded cores were cultured for 5 weeks in culture medium designed to mimic endochondral ossification and produce hypertrophic chondrocytes. Single-level intertransverse process fusions were performed at the L4-L5 level of 31 athymic rats. Fifteen rats were implanted with the hypertrophic chondrocyte seeded scaffold and 16 had scaffold alone. Half of the study rats were sacrificed at 3 weeks and the other half at 6 weeks. Spinal fusion was assessed using 2D and 3D micro computed tomography (μCT) analysis and tissue histology.

Results.

At 3 weeks, none of the tissue engineered rats had partial or complete fusion, whereas 62.5% of the decellularized rats fused and another 12.5% had partial fusions (P = 0.013). At 6 weeks, none of the tissue engineered rats fused and 50% had partial fusions, whereas 87.5% of the decellularized rats fused (P = 0.002).

Conclusion.

Tissue engineered bone composed of hypertrophic chondrocytes inhibits posterolateral fusion in an athymic rat model and therefore does not represent a promising cost-effective bone graft substitute.

Level of Evidence: N/A
Less is More in Diabetic Neuropathy Diagnosis: Comparison of Quantitative Sudomotor Axon Reflex and Skin Biopsy
Authors: Abuzinadah Ahmad R. , Kluding Patricia , Wright Douglas , D'Silva Linda , Ryals Janelle , Hendry Bill , Jawdat Omar , Herbelin Laura , McVey April L. , Barohn Richard J. , Dimachkie Mazen M. , Pasnoor Mamatha
Published: August 2017

Objectives:

To compare the frequency of abnormalities in epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD) and quantitative sudomotor axon reflex (QSART) in patients with diabetic distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN).

Methods:

Nerve conduction studies, ENFD, and QSART data were obtained pre- and postexercise, in patients enrolled in a prospective diabetic neuropathy study. McNemar's test was applied to compare the yield of ENFD and QSART.

Results:

Eighteen patients (58 ± 4 years) were enrolled, with 36 data collection points. In diabetic DSPN and diabetic large fiber DSPN (DSPN-L), abnormal ENFD (77% and 100% respectively) is more frequent than abnormal QSART (39% and 35%, respectively) (P value = 0.001 in diabetic DSPN and P value = 0.0002 in diabetic DSPN-L), whereas in diabetic small fiber DSPN (DSPN-S), both tests have similar yields (47%).

Conclusions:

ENFD has a high diagnostic yield in diabetic DSPN and DSPN-L. Including QSART data adds little to the sensitivity of EFND in DSPN-S.
A NOVEL LARGE HOMOZYGOUS DELETION IN THE CELLULAR RETINALDEHYDE-BINDING PROTEIN GENE (RLBP1) IN A PATIENT WITH RETINITIS PUNCTATA ALBESCENS
Authors: Bagheri Saghar , Pantrangi Madhulatha , Sodhi Simrat K. , Bagheri Sayeh , Oellers Patrick , Scholl Hendrik P. N.
Published: August 2017

Purpose:

To report the phenotypic and genotypic data of a patient with retinitis punctata albescens carrying a novel deletion in the RLBP1 gene.

Results:

A woman of Iranian descent in her forties with a history of progressive visual deterioration since early childhood exhibited phenotypic features of retinitis punctata albescens with multiple white dots in the posterior pole and macular atrophy in both eyes. The microarray analysis identified a ∼2.160 kb homozygous deletion corresponding to a minimum deletion boundary of chr15q26.1:89,756,882-89,759,041/GRCh37 (hg19), which encompasses exon 6 of the RLBP1 gene.

Conclusion:

We describe a novel large homozygous deletion in the RLBP1 gene encoding the cellular retinaldehyde-binding protein in a patient of Iranian descent with retinitis punctata albescens. Genotype–phenotype studies may provide more information about the functions of the RLBP1 encoding proteins and the disease course, because RLBP1 mutations are associated with high phenotypic variability and are therefore a necessity for future tailored individual therapies.
Rabbit Model of Corneal Endothelial Injury Established Using the Nd:YAG Laser
Authors: Zhang Weijie , Hu Yang , Lu Linna , Liu Yan , Yang Xiaodan , Sun Hao , Ruan Jing , Chen Junzhao , Yao Qinke , Yan Chenxi , Gu Ping , Fu Yao , Shao Chunyi , Fan Xianqun
Published: August 2017

Purpose:

To develop a new rabbit model of corneal endothelial injury using a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser.

Methods:

The corneal endothelia of 2 groups of New Zealand white rabbits were treated with an Nd:YAG laser in a uniformly scattered fashion. Rabbits in group A underwent laser burns on the whole corneal endothelium, including the limbus area, whereas rabbits in group B were subjected to laser burns in the central 9-mm diameter zone of the endothelium. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy, optical coherence tomography, applanation tonometry, confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and histological examinations were performed during 4 weeks of follow-up.

Results:

In both groups, dotted or focal corneal endothelium defects were directly observed. The stroma was intact. Right after laser application, a series of clinical manifestations appeared, including subepithelial and stromal edema, increased central corneal thickness, and corneal opacity. Laser burn had more notable effects in group A than in group B. In both groups, we observed no damage to the intraocular structures, and intraocular pressure was normal after laser treatment.

Conclusions:

Nd:YAG laser treatment in a 9-mm diameter zone of the endothelium can effectively induce bullous keratopathy in a rabbit, whereas treatment for the entire corneal endothelium maintains bullous keratopathy for a longer period. The procedure is simple and reproducible, and it retains normal intraocular structures. This study provided a promising model for future research into endothelial cell damage and for the development of new therapies.
Risk Management of Hospitalized Psychiatric Patients Taking Multiple QTc-Prolonging Drugs
Authors: Vandael Eline , Vandenberk Bert , Willems Rik , Reyntens Johan , Vandenberghe Joris , Foulon Veerle
Published: August 2017

Purpose/Background

Drug-related QTc prolongation has been linked with Torsade de Pointes and sudden cardiac death. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of starting an additional QTc-prolonging drug on the QTc interval of psychiatric inpatients.

Methods

An observational study was performed between May 2011 and December 2014 in 6 Belgian psychiatric hospitals. Inpatients who were already taking 1 QTc-prolonging drug or more could be included in the study when an additional QTc-prolonging drug was started. Electrocardiograms were performed at baseline and follow-up. Demographic, medical, medication, and laboratory data were collected. A risk score was used to estimate the risk of QTc prolongation based on patient-specific risk factors. A cutoff value of 8 points was set as high risk for QTc prolongation.

Results

One hundred fifty-two patients (44.7% women; mean age, 44 [SD, 17] years) were included who received a prescription for an additional QTc-prolonging drug. There was a small but significant difference (P = 0.032) in mean QTc interval between baseline (409.1 [SD, 21.8] milliseconds) and follow-up (411.8 [SD, 21.7] milliseconds). Three patients developed a prolonged QTc interval in the follow-up electrocardiogram (QTc, ≥450 [men]/470 [women] milliseconds); 8 patients had a delta QTc of 30 milliseconds or longer. No cases of torsade de pointes or sudden cardiac death were identified. Fifty-eight patients (38.2%) had a risk score of 8 or higher; these patients had a significantly longer QTc interval at follow-up than did patients with a risk score of lower than 8 (P < 0.001).

Implications/Conclusions

Only a limited number of patients developed a prolonged QTc interval after the start of an additional QTc-prolonging drug. Nevertheless, it is still important to screen for high-risk patients at baseline. A risk score can help to select high-risk patients and to stimulate an appropriate and feasible risk management of QTc prolongation in psychiatry.