bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishment and characterization of a radiation‐induced dermatitis rat model
Authors: Sheng Xiaowu , Zhou Yue , Wang Hui , Shen Yongyi , Liao Qianjin , Rao Zhen , Deng Feiyan , Xie Luyuan , Yao Chaoling , Mao Huangxing , Liu Zhiyan , Peng Mingjing , Long Ying , Zeng Yong , Xue Lei , Gao Nina , Kong Yu , Zhou Xiao
Published: March 2019

Radiation‐induced dermatitis is a common and serious side effect after radiotherapy. Current clinical treatments cannot efficiently or fully prevent the occurrence of post‐irradiation dermatitis, which remains a significant clinical problem. Resolving this challenge requires gaining a better understanding of the precise pathophysiology, which in turn requires establishment of a suitable animal model that mimics the clinical condition, and can also be used to investigate the mechanism and explore effective treatment options. In this study, a single dose of 90 Gy irradiation to rats resulted in ulceration, dermal thickening, inflammation, hair follicle loss, and sebaceous glands loss, indicating successful establishment of the model. Few hair follicle cells migrated to form epidermal cells, and both the severity of skin fibrosis and hydroxyproline levels increased with time post‐irradiation. Radiation damaged the mitochondria and induced both apoptosis and autophagy of the skin cells. Therefore, irradiation of 90 Gy can be used to successfully establish a rat model of radiation‐induced dermatitis. This model will be helpful for developing new treatments and gaining a better understanding of the pathological mechanism of radiation‐induced dermatitis. Specifically, our results suggest autophagy regulation as a potentially effective therapeutic target.
Evidence of protandrous hermaphroditism in the tropical sparid Acanthopagrus berda
Authors: TOBIN A. J. , SHEAVES M. J. , MOLONY B. W.
Published: March 2019

Evidence of protandrous sex change in Acanthopagrus berda is presented. An in‐field technique involving the recapture of fish whose sex had previously been determined allowed the detection of male to female sex change in A. berda (n=4). Sex change was also observed in fish held in an aquarium environment (n=4). Each fish was sexed as male at the time of their initial capture as determined by the extrusion of semen from the urogenital pores upon milking of the abdominal cavity. The technique of sexing fish in the field was validated. Macroscopic examination of the gonads of the fish that had changed sex showed each fish possessed a functional female ovotestis. Length‐frequency analysis conducted on two large samples showed clear length separation of the sexes supporting protandrous sex change. Macroscopic and microscopic observations of the gonad of A. berda showed a typical sparid ovotestis is represented in all fish with both male and female sexual tissues clearly present within the gonad.
Searching for the link; mechanisms underlying liver regeneration and recurrence of colorectal liver metastasis post partial hepatectomy
Authors: Riddiough Georgina E. , Fifis Theodora , Muralidharan Vijayaragavan , Perini Marcos V. , Christophi Christopher
Published: March 2019

Despite excellent treatment of primary colorectal cancer, the majority of deaths occur as a result of metastasis to the liver. Recent population studies have estimated that one quarter of patients with colorectal cancer will incur synchronous or metachronous colorectal liver metastasis. However, only one quarter of these patients will be eligible for potentially curative resection. Tumor recurrence occurs in reportedly 60% of patients undergoing hepatic resection, and the majority of intrahepatic recurrence occurs within the first 6 months of surgery. The livers innate ability to restore its homeostatic size, and volume facilitates major hepatic resection that currently offers the only chance of cure to patients with extensive hepatic metastases. Experimental and clinical evidence supports the notion that following partial hepatectomy, liver regeneration (LR) paradoxically drives tumor progression and increases the risk of recurrence. It is becoming increasingly clear that the processes that drive liver organogenesis, regeneration, and tumor progression are inextricably linked. This presents a major hurdle in the management of colorectal liver metastasis and other hepatic malignancies because therapies that reduce the risk of recurrence without hampering LR are sought. The processes and pathways underlying these phenomena are multiple, complex, and cross‐communicate. In this review, we will summarize the common mechanisms contributing to both LR and tumor recurrence.
Adipose tissue‐derived stem cells prevent fibrosis in murine steatohepatitis by suppressing IL‐17‐mediated inflammation
Authors: Yamato Masatoshi , Sakai Yoshio , Mochida Hatsune , Kawaguchi Kazunori , Takamura Masayuki , Usui Soichiro , Seki Akihiro , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Yamashita Taro , Yamashita Tatsuya , Ishida Kousuke , Nasti Alessandro , Tuyen Ho Thuy Bich , Komura Takuya , Yoshida Keiko , Wada Takashi , Honda Masao , Kaneko Shuichi
Published: March 2019

Background and Aim

The pathological features of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have not been determined, so fundamental treatment has not been established. Adipose‐tissue‐derived stromal/stem cells (ADSCs) are beneficial for repair/regenerative therapy of impaired organs because of their immuno‐modulatory capability. In this study, we assessed how liver damage progresses during the early development phase of the murine NASH model and investigated whether ADSCs are preventatively efficacious against the fibrosis progression of NASH.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice were fed with atherogenic high fat or high‐fat diet 60 developing into NASH or simple steatosis. Their hepatic inflammatory cells (HICs) were analyzed by cDNA microarray. NASH mice were treated with ADSCs injected into spleen when hepatic inflammation was initially observed, and liver samples were analyzed. The effect of ADSCs on the mice hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line stimulated by recombinant IL‐17 and HICs from NASH mice was analyzed.

Results

The gene expression features of HICs implicated as humoral cytokine mediators of lymphoid cells during NASH development, compared with a simple steatosis model. One of the featured cytokines was IL‐17. The development of hepatic fibrosis was alleviated when NASH mice were treated with ADSCs as well as treated with anti‐IL‐17 antibody, and the frequency of IL‐17‐secreting HICs decreased. NASH‐HICs enhanced proliferation of HSCs, in which proliferation was sensitive to IL‐17 stimulation. The stimulatory effect of NASH‐HICs on the activation of HSCs was attenuated by co‐culture with ADSCs.

Conclusion

ADSCs treatment prevented progression of NASH fibrosis by suppressing IL‐17‐mediated inflammation, which was associated with HSCs activation.
Rebel with a Cause: Personal Significance from Political Activism Predicts Willingness to Self‐Sacrifice
Authors: Jasko Katarzyna , Szastok Marta , Grzymala‐Moszczynska Joanna , Maj Marta , Kruglanski Arie W.
Published: March 2019

Given the social importance of political activism, it is critical to understand what motivates individuals to engage in it. Past research has predominantly focused on individual and collective frustrations as factors that motivate political actions. At the same time, the role of the positive experiences that activists gain from their political engagement was largely neglected. Drawing on quest for significance theory, we proposed that when people engage in political actions on behalf of important social values, they gain a sense of personal significance, and as a result of these positive feelings, they are more willing to self‐sacrifice for the cause in the future. We tested that hypothesis in six studies, which included both online and offline samples of political activists engaged in different forms of activism that challenge the neoliberal order: activism for a radical left‐wing party (N = 84), a pro‐democratic social movement (N = 1,409), feminist activism (N = 158, N = 258), environmental activism (N = 396), and activism for labor and healthcare rights (N = 156). The results we obtained were in line with our hypothesized model. We discuss the implications of our findings for individuals who want to mobilize support for political movements.
Specialty income and career decision making: a qualitative study of medical student perceptions
Authors: Phillips Julie P , Wilbanks Deana M , Rodriguez‐Salinas Diana F , Doberneck Diane M
Published: March 2019

Context

Medical educators in the USA are interested in the ways medical students make career choices because shortages in key specialties, particularly primary care specialties, limit access to care. Although anticipated specialty income is a strong predictor of student interest, no studies have qualitatively explored the reasons why income is important to students. By better understanding students’ perspectives on income and specialty choice, educators can help students make choices that fit their goals and better educate students about the specialties in which the need for expansion is greatest.

Methods

In 2012, Year‐2 students at one USA medical school were invited to write an essay about how debt and anticipated income levels influence their career choices. A total of 132 essays (response rate: 67%) were qualitatively analysed using a hermeneutic phenomenology approach to conventional content analysis, in which themes emerge inductively from the data. Researchers employed peer debriefing, modified member checking, thick description, code–recode strategies, audit trails and reflexivity to ensure quality and rigour. Although this analysis initially focused on student perceptions of specialty income, prestige also emerged as an important related theme.

Results

Three major findings emerged. Income is of varying importance to different students. Students value income because it provides freedom and flexibility, and power and security. Students recognise that high income confers social prestige. Students also define specialty prestige in other ways, including match competitiveness, perceived expertise, opportunities for advancement through fellowships, and power and autonomy.

Conclusions

Medical students’ perspectives of specialty income, specialty choice and prestige are more complex than previously reported. Medical educators should frame conversations about specialty choices in ways that incorporate varied perspectives on income and prestige. Health policymakers should recognise that income and prestige influence medical students’ decisions in complex ways. These insights may inform strategies to counteract shortages in key specialties, including primary care specialties.
Canopy leaf area index at its higher end: dissection of structural controls from leaf to canopy scales in bryophytes
Authors: Niinemets Ülo , Tobias Mari
Published: March 2019

There is evidence that mosses with miniature foliage elements have extremely large leaf area index (LAI) values, but it is unclear what canopy traits are responsible for these high LAI values in architecturally divergent mosses, and how the inherent trade‐offs limiting maximum LAI in vascular plants can be overcome in mosses.

To determine the quantitative significance of different traits in determining LAI, we developed a method to dissect LAI into underlying functionally dependent constituent traits at leaf, shoot and canopy scales. The suites of structural traits were studied altogether for 43 moss canopies from 11 species with contrasting light and water requirements along gap‐understory gradients to obtain as large a range of variation in moss architecture as possible and evaluate the differentiation in moss LAI in relation to species ecology.

Extensive variation in moss structural traits, 11‐ (shoot length) to 77‐fold (shoot number per area,), was observed at all structural scales from leaf to canopy. However, LAI only varied nine‐fold, as the result of two key trade‐offs: leaf size vs number trade‐off and shoot leaf area vs shoot density trade‐off. Owing to these negative relationships, and greater variability in, LAI primarily scaled with.and LAI increased with site light availability, and LAI was greater in open and dry habitat species.

This study highlights a huge structural diversity among moss canopies, but indicates that canopies converge to a much narrower range of LAI due to trait trade‐offs such that, counterintuitively, minute leaf size and densely leafed stems are not necessarily responsible for high LAI in mosses.
Forecasting with High‐Dimensional Panel VARs
Authors: Koop Gary , Korobilis Dimitris
Published: March 2019

This paper develops methods for estimating and forecasting in Bayesian panel vector autoregressions of large dimensions with time‐varying parameters and stochastic volatility. We exploit a hierarchical prior that takes into account possible pooling restrictions involving both VAR coefficients and the error covariance matrix, and propose a Bayesian dynamic learning procedure that controls for various sources of model uncertainty. We tackle computational concerns by means of a simulation‐free algorithm that relies on analytical approximations to the posterior. We use our methods to forecast inflation rates in the eurozone and show that these forecasts are superior to alternative methods for large vector autoregressions.
Metabolic surgery for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in patients with BMI lower than 35 kg/m2: Why caution is still needed
Authors: Halpern Bruno , Mancini Marcio Correa
Published: March 2019

Bariatric surgery has shifted from being a risky procedure to an evidence‐based one, with proven benefits on all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes control. The procedure has an overall positive result on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with a substantial number of patients achieving disease remission. This has resulted in several studies assessing possible weight‐independent effects of bariatric surgery on glycemic improvement, in addition to recommendation of the procedure to patients with class 1 obesity and T2DM, for whom the procedure was classically not indicated, and adoption of a new term, “metabolic surgery,” to highlight the overall metabolic benefit of the procedure beyond weight loss. Recently, the Diabetes Surgery Summit (DSS) has included metabolic surgery in its T2DM treatment algorithm. Although the discussion brought by this consensus is highly relevant, the recommendation of metabolic surgery for patients with uncontrolled T2DM and a body mass index of 30 to 35 kg/m2 still lacks enough evidence. This article provides an overall view of the metabolic benefits of bariatric/metabolic surgery in patients with class 1 obesity, compares the procedure against clinical treatment, and presents our rationale for defending caution on recommending the procedure to less obese individuals.
Leadless pacemaker implantation: A feasible and reasonable option in transcatheter heart valve replacement patients
Authors: Moore Sarah K. L. , Chau Katherine H. , Chaudhary Salma , Rubin Geoffrey , Bayne Joseph , Avula Uma Mahesh R. , Wang Daniel Y. , Sorbera Carmine , Dizon Jose , Biviano Angelo , Waase Marc , Iyer Vivek , George Isaac , Kodali Susheel K. , Nazif Tamim M. , Garan Hasan , Wan Elaine Y.
Published: March 2019

Background

Leadless pacemakers (LPMs) have been shown to have lower postoperative complications than traditional permanent pacemakers but there have been no studies on the outcomes of LPMs in patients with transcatheter heart valve replacements (THVRs). This study determined outcomes of LPMs compared to transvenous single‐chamber pacemakers (SCPs) post‐THVR.

Methods

This is a retrospective single‐center study including 10 patients who received LPMs post‐THVR between February 2017 and August 2018 and a comparison group of 23 patients who received SCP post‐THVR between July 2008 and August 2018. LPM or SCP was implanted at the discretion of electrophysiologists for atrial fibrillation with slow ventricular response or sinus node dysfunction with need for single‐chamber pacing only.

Results

LPMs were associated with decreased tricuspid regurgitation (P = 0.04) and decreased blood loss during implantation (7.5 ± 2.5 cc for LPMs vs 16.8 ± 3.2 cc for SCPs, P = 0.03). Five LPM patients had devices positioned in the right ventricular septum as seen on transthoracic echocardiogram. Frequency of ventricular pacing was similar between LPM and SCP groups. In the LPM group, one case was complicated by a pseudoaneurysm and one death was due to noncardiac causes. There was one pneumothorax and one pocket infection in the SCP group.

Conclusions

In this small retrospective study, LPMs were feasible post‐THVR and found to perform as well as SCPs, had less intraprocedural blood loss, and were associated with less tricuspid regurgitation. Further, larger studies are required to follow longer‐term outcomes and complications.
Betaine ameliorates prenatal valproic‐acid‐induced autism‐like behavioral abnormalities in mice by promoting homocysteine metabolism
Authors: Huang Fei , Chen Xiaoqin , Jiang Xiangzhi , Niu Juan , Cui Cuicui , Chen Zhenli , Sun Jun
Published: March 2019

Aim

Abnormally high levels of homocysteine (Hcy) are associated with autism spectrum disorder. Betaine is a methyl group donor in Hcy metabolism, and is known to prevent noxious Hcy accumulation. This study explored whether betaine could influence Hcy metabolism in a mouse model of autism and ameliorate behavioral abnormalities.

Methods

Pregnant ICR mice were administered valproic acid (VPA) intraperitoneally on Embryonic Day 12.5. Serum Hcy concentrations in the offspring were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Expressions of Hcy‐metabolism‐related enzymes, betaine‐Hcy methyltransferase, cystathionine β‐synthase, and methionine synthase, were measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Offspring were treated by either betaine or saline at the age of 8 weeks and serum Hcy concentrations were measured. Social behaviors were assessed by sniff‐duration test and three‐chamber test. Repetitive behavior was evaluated by marble‐burying test. Tail‐flick test was performed to measure nociceptive sensitivity.

Results

Prenatal VPA‐exposed mice showed significantly elevated Hcy concentrations and decreased betaine‐Hcy methyltransferase expression. Treatment with betaine could reduce Hcy level in VPA‐exposed mice, attenuate social impairment and repetitive behavior, and normalize nociceptive sensitivity in this model.

Conclusion

Betaine could ameliorate autism‐like features and play a beneficial role in a mouse autism model induced by prenatal VPA exposure.
Comparative proteomic analysis of high‐ and low‐fertile buffalo bull spermatozoa for identification of fertility‐associated proteins
Authors: M. K Muhammad Aslam , Kumaresan Arumugam , Yadav Savita , Mohanty Tushar K. , Datta Tirtha K.
Published: March 2019

Contents

The present study identified few potential proteins in the spermatozoa of buffalo bulls that can be used as an aid in fertility determination through comparative proteomics. The sperm proteome of high‐fertile buffalo bulls was compared with that of low‐fertile buffalo bulls using two‐dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D‐DIGE), and the differentially expressed proteins were identified through mass spectrometric method. The protein interaction network and the functional bioinformatics analysis of differentially expressed proteins were also carried out. In the spermatozoa of high‐fertile bulls, 10 proteins were found overexpressed and 15 proteins were underexpressed at the level of twofold or more (p ≤ 0.05). The proteins overexpressed in high‐fertile spermatozoa were PDZD8, GTF2F2, ZNF397, KIZ, LOH12CR1, ACRBP, PRSS37, CYP11B2, F13A1 and SPO11, whereas those overexpressed in low‐fertile spermatozoa were MT1A, ATP5F1, CS, TCRB, PRODH2, HARS, IDH3A, SRPK3, Uncharacterized protein C9orf9 homolog isoform X4, TUBB2B, GPR4, PMP2, CTSL1, TPPP2 and EGFL6. The differential expression ranged from 2.0‐ to 6.1‐fold between the two groups, where CYP11B2 was high abundant in high‐fertile spermatozoa and MT1A was highly abundant in low‐fertile spermatozoa. Most of the proteins overexpressed in low‐fertile spermatozoa were related to energy metabolism and capacitation factors, pointing out the possible role of pre‐mature capacitation and cryo‐damages in reducing the fertility of cryopreserved buffalo spermatozoa.
“We are women and men now”: Intimate spaces and coping labour for Syrian women refugees in Jordan
Authors: Culcasi Karen
Published: March 2019

War affects women from the bedroom to the battlefield, but for most women war is experienced within intimate spaces. Intimate spaces are rarely the focus of mainstream academic research or media reporting; thus women's experiences with war and displacement are often concealed. Building from literature in feminist geopolitics that helps focus our attention toward everyday and intimate geopolitics, I conducted in‐depth interviews with Syrian women refugees in Jordan in order to examine how they are coping. Of the many ways that they've learned to cope, these women asserted that earning an income and adjusting to altered gender performances and relations have been both dire and formative. Many Syrian women refugees have become income providers for the first time in their lives. Some women have become their families’ sole providers, and other women are now heads of households as well. Bringing literature from feminist geography, transnational and migration studies, and critical home studies together with feminist geopolitics, I offer the ideas of coping and coping labour as a framework to examine the intimate spaces of displacement. I highlight that paid work is understudied within feminist geopolitics, but such a focus renders important insights into how gender shapes experiences of displacement and how displacement is reshaping gendered relations. In this paper, I show that in the intimate spaces of displacement women have taken on traditionally masculine practices, but while their gendered performances shift, they are simultaneously entrenched as the ideals of appropriate feminine and masculine performances are recreated. Though these multiple gendered performances are creating numerous demands and challenges for Syrian women refugees, these women are also experiencing an increased sense of strength, confidence and respect as a result of their shifting performances.
Superior mesenteric and renal flow patterns during intra‐aortic counterpulsation
Authors: Johnson Daniel M. , Lozekoot Pieter , de Jong Monique , Parise Orlando , Makhoul Maged , Matteucci Francesco , Lucà Fabiana , Maessen Jos G. , Gelsomino Sandro
Published: March 2019

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Visceral ischaemia is one of the most feared complications during use of an intra‐aortic balloon pump. Using an animal model, we measured the flows at the abdominal level directly and examined flow patterns to enable investigation of flow patterns during the use of the intra‐aortic balloon pump.

What is the main finding and its importance?

We show that there is a significant balloon‐related reduction in superior mesenteric flow in both early and mid‐diastole.

A number of previous studies have shown that blood flow in the visceral arteries is altered during intra‐aortic balloon pump (IABP) treatment. We used a porcine model to analyse the pattern of blood flow into the visceral arteries during IABP use. For this purpose, we measured the superior mesenteric, right renal and left renal flows before and during IABP support, using surgically placed flowmeters surrounding these visceral arteries. The superior mesenteric flow significantly decreased in early diastole (P < 0.001) and in mid‐diastole (P = 0.003 versus early diastole), whereas in late diastole it increased again (P < 0.001 versus mid‐diastole). During systole, the flow was not significantly increased compared with late diastole (P = 0.51), but it was significantly lower than at baseline (both P < 0.001). Flows did not differ between right and left kidneys. Perfusion of either kidney did not change significantly in early diastole (P > 0.05), whereas it decreased significantly in mid‐diastole (P < 0.001), rising dramatically in late diastole (P < 0.001) and with an additional slight increase in systole (P = 0.054). This study provides important insights into abdominal flows during intra‐aortic pump counterpulsation. Furthermore, it supports the need to rethink the balloon design to avoid visceral ischaemia during circulatory assistance.
Phenomenological Modeling of Carpeted Surface for Drop Simulation of Portable Electronics
Authors: Sirimamilla Abhi , Ye Hua , Wu Yinan
Published: March 2019

Using finite element (FE) analysis to simulate drop impact is widely adopted by the consumer electronics industry in the design process of portable devices. Most of such simulations model impact surface as a rigid or simple elastic surface. While this approach is valid for many common hard surfaces such as wood, tile, or concrete, it often does not provide a realistic risk assessment if the impact surface is a soft surface such as carpet. This paper describes a methodology to create a material model for carpeted impact surface that is suited for FE drop simulation. A multilayer hyperelastic–viscoelastic material model is used to model the mechanical response of the carpet under mechanical impact. Quasi-static and impact testing on the industrial carpet were performed to calibrate the model parameters with the help of optimization. Validation of the model was done by comparing the simulation predictions with measurements from the impact tests performed at different heights. Much better correlation between experimental measurements and simulation predictions were observed when using the multilayer hyper-viscoelastic model for carpet than using a single layer homogenous model. This approach can provide a better estimate and a more accurate representation for device drop risk on carpeted surfaces for design and development of portable products. The methodology can also be used to derive material models for other similar impact surfaces.
Reduced Working Temperature of Quantum Dots-Light-Emitting Diodes Optimized by Quantum Dots at Silica-on-Chip Structure
Authors: Xie Bin , Liu Haochen , Sun Xiao Wei , Yu Xingjian , Wu Ruikang , Wang Kai , Luo Xiaobing
Published: March 2019

White light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) composed of blue LED chip, yellow phosphor, and red quantum dots (QDs) are considered as a potential alternative for next-generation artificial light source with their high luminous efficiency (LE) and color-rendering index (CRI) while QDs' poor temperature stability and the incompatibility of QDs/silicone severely hinder the wide utilization of QDs-WLEDs. To relieve this, here we proposed a separated QDs@silica nanoparticles (QSNs)/phosphor structure, which composed of a QSNs-on-chip layer with a yellow phosphor layer above. A silica shell was coated onto the QDs surface to solve the compatibility problem between QDs and silicone. With CRI > 92 and R9 > 90, the newly proposed QSNs-based WLEDs present 16.7% higher LE and lower QDs working temperature over conventional mixed type WLEDs. The reduction of QDs' temperature can reach 11.5 °C, 21.3 °C, and 30.3 °C at driving current of 80 mA, 200 mA, and 300 mA, respectively.
Enhanced Sintered Silver for SiC Wide Bandgap Power Electronics Integrated Package Module
Authors: Lu Mei-Chien
Published: March 2019

Thermal interface materials (TIMs) are crucial elements for packaging of power electronics. In particular, development of high-temperature lead-free die-attach TIMs for silicon carbide wide bandgap power electronics is a challenge. Among major options, sintered silver shows advantages in ease of applications. Cost, performance, reliability, and integration are concerns for technology implementation. The current study first discusses issues and status reported in literatures. Then it focuses on cost reduction and performance improvement of sintered silver using enhancement structures at micro- and nano-scales. A few design architectures are analyzed by finite element methods. The feasibility of strengthening edges and corners is also assessed. The downside of potential increase of unfavorable stresses to accelerate void coalescence would be optimized in conjunction with design concept of power electronics package modules for paths of solutions in the form of integrated systems. Demands of developing new high-temperature packaging materials to enable optimized package designs are also highlighted.
Isotope Effect and Superconductivity in Metal-Doped C
60
Authors: Chen Chia-Chun , Lieber Charles M.
Published: March 2019

The mechanism of superconductivity in alkali metal-doped fullerenes remains a fascinating and controversial issue. One powerful probe of this mechanism involves the determination of the shift in transition temperature (δ
T
c
) upon isotopic substitution. A series of isotopically substituted Rb
3
C
60
superconductors, where C
60
corresponds to
13
C
60
, (
13
C
60
)
0.5
(
12
C
60
)
0.5
, or (
13
C
0.55
12
C
0.45
)
60
, was investigated. The δ
T
c
determined for Rb
3
13
C
60
, 0.7 ± 0.1 K, provides an unambiguous value for the isotope shift in fully substituted fullerene superconductors. The δ
T
c
determined for Rb
3
(
13
C
0.55
12
C
0.45
)
60
, 0.5 K, is also consistent with simple mass scaling of the Rb
3
13
C
60
result. However, an intermolecular effect not accounted for in existing theories is demonstrated by the unexpectedly large δ
T
c
, 0.9 K, that was observed for the Rb
3
(
13
C
60
)
0.5
(
12
C
60
)
0.5
materials. These results are used to critically assess proposed mechanisms of fullerene superconductivity.
Collider plans face cloudy prospects
Authors: Normile Dennis , Cho Adrian
Published: March 2019

Physicists brace for decision on Japan's International Linear Collider.
Cheap devices bring quake damage sensing to the masses
Authors: Wade Lizzie
Published: March 2019

With technology borrowed from cellphones, even modest structures can be automatically scanned for hidden damage.
Earth scientists plan a ‘geological Google’
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: March 2019

China is backing an international effort to meld geoscience databases into a one-stop data shop.
Ripples for memory retrieval in humans
Authors: Gelinas Jennifer
Published: March 2019

Neural activity synchronizes between brain regions when memory is recalled
Mobilize for peace
Authors: King Jonathan A. , Bernstein Aron
Published: March 2019

Fifty years ago, on 4 March 1969, research and teaching at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) came to a halt as students, faculty, and staff held a “research strike” for peace. The strike protested United States involvement in the Vietnam War and MIT's complicity in this engagement through its Instrumentation Laboratory (now the Draper Laboratory), a major contracting lab for the U.S. Department of Defense. The anniversary of this activism by scientists (see the Book Review on page 935) is a reminder that the scientific community must continue to recognize its social responsibilities and promote science as a benefit for all people and for a peaceful world.
Population Structure and Morphotype Analysis of “
Candidatus
Accumulibacter” Using Fluorescence
In Situ
Hybridization-Staining-Flow Cytometry
Authors: Li Chao , Zeng Wei , Li Ning , Guo Yu , Peng Yongzhen
Published: March 2019

As one group of the most important functional phosphorus removal organisms, “
Candidatus
Accumulibacter,” affiliated with the
Rhodocyclus
group of the
Betaproteobacteria
, is a widely recognized and studied PAO in the field of biological wastewater treatment. The morphotypes and population structure of clade-level “
Candidatus
Accumulibacter” were studied through novel FISH-staining-flow cytometry, which involved denitrifying phosphorus removal (DPR) achieving carbon and energy savings and simultaneous removal of N and P, thus inferring the different denitrifying phosphorus removal abilities of these clades. Additionally, based on this method,
in situ
quantification for specific polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs) enables a more efficient process and more accurate result. The establishment of FISH-staining-flow cytometry makes cell sorting of clade-level noncultivated organisms available.
Regulation of Iron Uptake by Fine-Tuning the Iron Responsiveness of the Iron Sensor Fur
Authors: Choi Jeongjoon , Ryu Sangryeol
Published: March 2019

Iron is a fundamental metal ion for living organisms as it facilitates various biological processes. The ferric uptake regulator (Fur) protein controls iron homeostasis in various bacterial species. It is believed that Fur’s iron-dependent regulatory action is sufficient for it to function as an iron sensor. However, we now establish that the bacterial pathogen
Salmonella
enables Fur to properly reflect changes in surrounding iron availability by fine-tuning its responsiveness to iron. This process requires a protein that hampers Fur DNA binding at low iron concentrations. In this way,
Salmonella
broadens the range of iron concentrations that Fur responds to. Our findings reveal a potentially widespread control mechanism of bacterial iron homeostasis.
Fungi in the Marine Environment: Open Questions and Unsolved Problems
Authors: Amend Anthony , Burgaud Gaetan , Cunliffe Michael , Edgcomb Virginia P. , Ettinger Cassandra L. , Gutiérrez M. H. , Heitman Joseph , Hom Erik F. Y. , Ianiri Giuseppe , Jones Adam C. , Kagami Maiko , Picard Kathryn T. , Quandt C. Alisha , Raghukumar Seshagiri , Riquelme Mertixell , Stajich Jason , Vargas-Muñiz José , Walker Allison K. , Yarden Oded , Gladfelter Amy S.
Published: March 2019

Terrestrial fungi play critical roles in nutrient cycling and food webs and can shape macroorganism communities as parasites and mutualists. Although estimates for the number of fungal species on the planet range from 1.5 to over 5 million, likely fewer than 10% of fungi have been identified so far.
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome as part of an akinetic crisis associated with sepsis in a patient with Lewy body disease
Authors: Manabe Saki , Yanagi Hidetaka , Ozawa Hideki , Takagi Atsushi
Published: March 2019

A 65-year-old Japanese woman with Parkinson’s disease, later diagnosed with Lewy body disease, presented with a 2-day history of systemic tremors. She also had fever without rigidity or creatine kinase (CK) elevation. She was diagnosed with sepsis caused by pyelonephritis with acute kidney injury and parkinsonism exacerbation. Although antibiotic and fluid therapy improved her pyuria and renal function, her fever and tremors persisted. On the fourth day, her symptoms worsened and resulted in cardiopulmonary arrest; however, quick resuscitation allowed the return of spontaneous circulation. Simultaneously, hyperthermia, altered consciousness, extrapyramidal symptoms, dysautonomia and CK elevation were noted. Thus, dantrolene administration was initiated with a tentative diagnosis of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). This caused her fever to subside, and her symptoms gradually improved. It was difficult to distinguish between parkinsonism exacerbation associated with sepsis and NMS. Physicians should consider NMS early on, even if the patient does not fulfil the diagnostic criteria.
Perceptions and attitudes of patients towards medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ): a qualitative study in England
Authors: Sturrock Andrew , Preshaw Philip M , Hayes Catherine , Wilkes Scott
Published: March 2019

Objective

To explore the impact of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) on quality of life and to explore the attitudes and perceptions of patients towards the multidisciplinary approach to the prevention of the condition.

Design

Interpretivist methodology using qualitative semistructured interviews.

Setting

Primary care general medical practices and secondary care dental services in England.

Participants

23 patients; 6 with MRONJ, 13 prescribed bisphosphonates, 4 with osteoporosis not currently prescribed any medication.

Results

Patients felt that MRONJ had a significant negative impact on their quality of life and had poor knowledge of the preventive strategies recommended in the literature. Patients demonstrated positive attitudes towards a multidisciplinary approach to care; however, they perceived prescribers as having the key role in articulating risk. Four salient and inter-related themes emerged from the interviews: (1) perception of knowledge, indicating limited awareness of the condition, risk factors and preventive strategies; (2) quality of life, indicating the lived experiences of patients and the physical, psychological and social impacts of MRONJ; (3) interprofessional management, indicating a perceived organisational hierarchy, professional roles and responsibilities, prioritising aspects of care, articulation of risk and communication and (4) wider context, indicating demands on National Health Service resources and barriers to dental care.

Conclusions

MRONJ has a significant detrimental impact on quality of life, yet appropriate preventative education is not apparent. Effective interprofessional patient education and prevention to mitigate against the risk of developing MRONJ is required.
Outcomes of patients with heart failure after primary prevention ICD unit generator replacement
Authors: Looi Khang-Li , Gavin Andrew , Cooper Lisa , Dawson Liane , Slipper Debbie , Lever Nigel
Published: March 2019

Objective

Data describing outcomes after implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) unit generator replacement in patients with heart failure (HF) with primary prevention devices are limited.

Method

Data on patients with HF who underwent primary prevention ICD/cardiac resynchronisation therapy-defibrillator (CRT-D) implantation from 2007 until mid-2015 who subsequently received unit generator replacement were analysed. Outcomes assessed were mortality, appropriate ICD therapy and shock, and procedural complications.

Results

61 of 385 patients with HF with primary prevention ICD/CRT-D undergoing unit generator replacement were identified. Follow-up period was 1.8±1.5 years after replacement. 43 (70.5%) patients had not received prior appropriate ICD therapy prior to unit replacement. The cumulative risks of appropriate ICD therapy at 1, 3 and 5 years after unit replacement in those without prior ICD therapy were 0%, 6.2% and 50% compared with 6.2%, 59.8% and 86.6%, respectively (p=0.005) in those with prior ICD therapies. No predictive factors associated with appropriate ICD therapy after replacement could be identified. 41 (32.8%) patients no longer met guideline indications at the time of unit replacement but risks of subsequent appropriate ICD interventions were not different compared with those who continued to meet primary prevention ICD indications.

The 5-year mortality risk after unit replacement was 18.4% and there were high procedural complication rates (9.8%).

Conclusion

No predictive marker successfully stratified patients no longer needing ICD support prospectively. Finding such a marker is important in decision-making about device replacement particularly given the concerns about the complication rates. These factors should be considered at the time of ICD unit replacement.
Use of atracurium and its reversal with neostigmine in 14 pet rabbits undergoing ophthalmic surgery: a retrospective study
Authors: Adami Chiara , Sanchez Rick F , Monticelli Paolo
Published: March 2019

The objective of this retrospective study was to report the clinical use of atracurium and its reversal with neostigmine in pet rabbits. The medical records of 14 rabbits undergoing anaesthesia for ophthalmic surgery were located through a search of the hospital's database. Demographic data and data pertaining to the use of the neuromuscular blocker and its reversal were analysed. After intravenous administration of 0.44±0.4 mg/kg atracurium (total dose), 11 rabbits experienced at least one of the following cardiovascular responses: hypotension, defined as systolic arterial pressure less than 75 mmHg (n=6), hypotension with decreased heart rate (HR) (n=1), hypotension with increased HR (n=1), decreased arterial blood pressure (ABP) without hypotension (n=6), decreased ABP with decreased HR (n=1), or increased HR (n=2, ABP reading could not be taken). Two of these 11 rabbits also experienced severe intraoperative hypothermia. The neuromuscular block was monitored with a train‐of‐four nerve‐stimulation pattern, and reversed, with intramuscular 0.01–0.045 mg/kg neostigmine and 0.01–0.02 mg/kg glycopyrronium, after the return of at least two out of four muscular twitches following nerve stimulation. Decrease in ABP and possibly hypothermia are likely intraoperative complications when clinical doses of atracurium are administered to pet rabbits. Measures should be taken to detect their occurrence in order to treat them promptly.
Ecological correlates of pest infestation on roseroot (Rhodiola rosea), a culturally important medicinal plant
Authors: Ford Allison R. , Hermanutz Luise
Published: March 2019

Pests can have detrimental effects on plant populations by compromising growth, reproduction, and survival. Dryocoetes krivolutzkajae Mandelshtam (Curculionidae: Scolytinae) infests rhizomes of roseroot (Rhodiola rosea L.) in isolated areas of North America. This study documents the first record of D. krivolutzkajae for the island of Newfoundland (Canada) and investigates correlates of infestation on roseroot plants. This study examines the distribution of D. krivolutzkajae on roseroot and the relationship between infestation and plant substrate, sex, distance to the ocean, population size, biomass, and distance between sample sites. Dryocoetes krivolutzkajae is widespread across the island, found in 13/17 sites surveyed, and infestation was associated with plants with greater rhizome biomass, especially male plants. Geographically closer sites had higher proportions of infested plants. No association was found between infestation and plant substrate, distance to the ocean, or population size. Galls characteristic of eriophyid mites were also found on roseroot plants but were uncommon (3/17 sites surveyed). Because roseroot is a culturally important medicinal plant that is endangered in parts of its range, studying the effects of pests on the growth and survival of this species is important for its conservation and cultivation.
Proton decay and the quantum structure of space–time
Authors: Al-Modlej Abeer , Alsaleh Salwa , Alshal Hassan , Ali Ahmed Farag
Published: March 2019

Virtual black holes in noncommutative space–time are investigated using coordinate coherent state formalism such that the event horizon of a black hole is manipulated by smearing it with a Gaussian of width [Formula: see text], where θ is the noncommutativity parameter. Proton lifetime, the main associated phenomenology of the noncommutative virtual black holes, has been studied, first in four-dimensional space–time and then generalized to D dimensions. The lifetime depends on θ and the number of space–time dimensions such that it emphasizes on the measurement of proton lifetime as a potential probe for the microstructure of space–time.
Thermal relativity, corrections to black hole entropy, Born’s reciprocal relativity theory, and quantum gravity
Authors: Perelman Carlos Castro
Published: March 2019

Starting with a brief description of Born’s reciprocal relativity theory (BRRT), based on a maximal proper force, maximal speed of light, and inertial and non-inertial observers, we derive the exact thermal relativistic corrections to the Schwarzschild, Reissner–Nordstrom, and Kerr–Newman black hole entropies and provide a detailed analysis of the many novel applications and consequences to the physics of black holes, quantum gravity, minimal area, minimal mass, Yang–Mills mass gap, information paradox, arrow of time, dark matter, and dark energy. We finish by outlining our proposal towards a space–time–matter unification program where matter can be converted into spacetime quanta and vice versa.
Control of multiple-resistant waterhemp [Amaranthus tuberculatus (Moq.) Sauer] with preemergence and postemergence herbicides in corn in Ontario
Authors: Benoit Lauren , Soltani Nader , Hooker David C. , Robinson Darren E. , Sikkema Peter H.
Published: March 2019

Waterhemp is a competitive, summer annual, broadleaf weed that poses a considerable threat to Ontario grain farmers. Populations with multiple resistance to Group 2 (ALS-inhibitors), Group 5 (photosystem II inhibitors), and Group 9 (EPSPS inhibitors) herbicides have been confirmed in Ontario. If left uncontrolled, waterhemp competition can result in corn yield losses of up to 74%. The objective of this research was to evaluate preemergence (PRE) and postemergence (POST) herbicides for control of multiple-herbicide resistant (MR) waterhemp. Two field studies at two locations (Cottam and Walpole Island) were conducted in 2016 and 2017. Fifteen PRE and 12 POST herbicides were evaluated for waterhemp control, density, and aboveground biomass and corn yield. At 8 wk after application (WAA), S-metolachlor/mesotrione/atrazine (1393/139/524 g a.i. ha−1) and S-metolachlor/mesotrione/bicyclopyrone/atrazine (1259/140/35/588 g a.i. ha−1) applied PRE were the most efficacious, controlling MR waterhemp 87% and 91%, respectively. At 8 WAA, the most efficacious POST herbicides were mesotrione + atrazine and dicamba/atrazine, controlling MR waterhemp 92% and 87%, respectively. Reduced waterhemp interference with the PRE herbicides evaluated resulted in corn yield that was similar to the weed-free control.
Management of root rot of soybean in Alberta with fungicide seed treatments and genetic resistance
Authors: Nyandoro R. , Chang K.F. , Hwang S.F. , Ahmed H.U. , Turnbull G.D. , Strelkov S.E.
Published: March 2019

Root rot caused by Fusarium spp. is prevalent in soybean crops in Alberta, Canada. To mitigate the risk to soybean crops caused by Fusarium spp., nine seed-treatment fungicide formulations were assessed for their efficacy in promoting seedling survival, reducing root rot symptoms, and maintaining yield. Twelve soybean varieties were also assessed for resistance to seedling blight and tolerance to Fusarium root rot. All treatments except Vibrance + Apron XL improved emergence. All the fungicide formulations reduced root rot severity on Fusarium-inoculated soybean seedlings under field conditions and all treatments except Vibrance + Apron XL reduced root rot under greenhouse conditions. Among the varieties, ‘90M01’ showed lower reductions in emergence than all the others except ‘900Y61’ and ‘900Y81’ under field conditions and emergence losses for ‘900Y71’ were greater than all other varieties. ‘LS003RR’ had a lower disease severity rating compared with ‘TH32004R2Y’, ‘27005RR’, and ‘900Y71’. ‘NSC Portage’ had a higher nodulation rating compared with all the other varieties except ‘90M01’. Yield losses were consistently low for ‘TH32004R2Y’ and ‘900Y71’. Under greenhouse conditions, ‘900Y81’ had lower seedling losses compared with all the other varieties except ‘Tundra’ and ‘OAC Prudence’. ‘900Y71’ had a greater loss of emergence than all the other varieties except ‘NSC Portage’ and ‘LS005RR’. ‘900Y81’, ‘OAC Prudence’, and ‘Tundra’ had lower disease severity compared with all the other varieties except ‘TH27005RR’ and ‘900Y61’. Shoot length and dry mass were lower for ‘900Y81’ compared with all the other varieties, while root dry mass was lower for ‘OAC Prudence’ compared with ‘LS005RR’, ‘90M01’, ‘TH29002RR’, and ‘LS003RR’.