bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in overactive bladder symptoms after sodium glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitor administration to patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Shikuma Junpei , Ito Rokuro , Sasaki‐Shima Junko , Teshima Akiko , Hara Kazuo , Takahashi Tomono , Sakai Hiroyuki , Miwa Takashi , Kanazawa Akira , Odawara Masato
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in overactive bladder symptoms after selective sodium glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitor administration to patients with type 2 diabetes.

Outpatients with type 2 diabetes who consented to participate in this study between September 2014 and August 2015 were included. Overactive bladder assessments were conducted before and one month after SGLT2 inhibitor administration using the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS).

Fifty‐eight patients were enrolled. OABSSs indicated that 17.2% of the subjects had overactive bladder. Comparison of OABSSs before and after SGLT2 inhibitor administration indicated that Q1 (daytime frequency) and total scores increased significantly. Post‐hoc analysis indicated that in the group without overactive bladder according to pre‐administration OABSSs, statistically significant increases were observed for Q1 (daytime frequency), Q3 (urgency), and total scores. Conversely, in the group with overactive bladder, there were no significant differences. The mean score for Q1 (daytime frequency) increased, whereas that for Q3 (urgency) decreased.

It was concluded that SGLT2 inhibitor administration to patients with type 2 diabetes, but without overactive bladder, caused significant increases in daytime frequency but not in night‐time frequency. However, in patients with overactive bladder prior to SGLT2 inhibitor administration, blood glucose control was possible without worsening overactive bladder. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons.
Crystal structures of amyloidogenic segments of human transthyretin
Authors: Saelices Lorena , Sievers Stuart A. , Sawaya Michael R. , Eisenberg David S.
Published: April 2018

Amyloid diseases are characterized by the deposition of proteins in the form of amyloid fibrils, in organs that eventually fail. The development of effective drug candidates follows from the understanding of the molecular processes that lead to protein aggregation. Here, we study amyloidogenic segments of transthyretin (TTR). TTR is a transporter of thyroxine and retinol in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. When mutated and/or as a result of aging, TTR aggregates into amyloid fibrils that accumulate in organs such as the heart. Recently, we reported two amyloidogenic segments that drive amyloid aggregation. Here, we report the crystal structure of another six amyloidogenic segments of TTR. We found that the segments from the C‐terminal region of TTR form in‐register steric‐zippers with highly‐interdigitated, wet interfaces, whereas the β‐strand B from the N‐terminal region of TTR forms an out‐of‐register assembly, previously associated with oligomeric formation. Our results contribute fundamental information for understanding the mechanism of aggregation of TTR.
Incidence and mortality of stomach cancer in Shandong Province in 2012
Authors: Fu Zhentao , Li Guigang , Sun Jandong , Zhai Yuting , Zhang Jiyu , Lu Zilong , Chu Jie , Zhang Gaohui , Guo Xiaolei , Xu Aiqiang
Published: April 2018

Stomach cancer is common in the Chinese population. The present study aimed to analyze the incidence and mortality as a result of stomach cancer in Shandong Province, in order to provide a reference for cancer prevention and control. We analyzed the incidence and mortality data of stomach cancer collected from 15 cancer registries in 2012. We calculated the crude, age‐standardized, and truncated incidence and mortality rates for the registered population, and estimated the numbers of new cases and deaths that might have occurred in the total provincial population by applying the age‐specific rates to the corresponding populations. The estimated numbers of new cases and deaths of stomach cancer were 36 796 and 25 343, respectively, among the total Shandong population in 2012. Both the incidence and mortality rates were higher in men than in women. The incidence in rural areas was similar with that in urban areas, whereas mortality was markedly higher in rural than in urban areas. Age‐specific incidence and mortality of stomach cancer increased with age, particularly after 40 years‐of‐age and peaked at 80–84 or ≥85 years‐of‐age. Stomach cancer is common in Shandong province, particularly among men and residents in rural areas. Targeted prevention, early detection, and treatment programs should be carried out.
Can low‐dose radiotherapy volumes be one of the contributing factors to early relapses in lung cancer patients?
Authors: Kiziltan Huriye Senay , Mayadagli Alpaslan , Tekce Ertuğrul , Eris Ali Hikmet , Kablan Ozgur , Altinok Sut Pelin
Published: April 2018

Objective

Several studies have shown that low‐dose radiotherapy (RT) might increase tumor invasion and metastases. Whereas multiple RT fields that increase low‐dose RT areas are often used to prevent damage to organs at risk. We carried out a clinical trial with the concern that low‐dose RT sites could increase invasions or metastases when multiple sites were used.

Methods

A clinical retrospective study was carried out on 50 lung cancer patients with stage II–IIIB cancer, who underwent RT and/or chemotherapy, had Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performances 1–3, were aged 45–87 years, and without metastases. RT was carried out for 5 days with 180–200 cGy fractions per day with a total dose of 54–66 Gy. The radiation dose volume areas V5, V10, V20, V40, V50, and V60 of lung were calculated and analyzed by Mann–Whitney U‐test and L par test on disease‐free and overall survival statistically.

Results

It was determined that V5, V10, and V20, which constitute the low RT dose areas of the lung, positively affected the recurrence‐free and overall survival minimally according to r correlation values.

Conclusion

Low‐dose RT volumes were positively affected minimally by recurrence‐free survival and overall survival in the present study. The effects of low‐dose radiation must be evaluated more clearly in studies.
Optimising medication in frail older people
Authors: Jiwa Maryam
Published: April 2018

Medicines optimisation is key to the successful management of frail older people in order to reduce harm and minimise inappropriate admissions. This article discusses the screening tools available to help identify frailty and gives guidance on how to optimise prescribing in frail individuals.
Utilising community pharmacists to reduce prescribing waste
Authors: Brown Richard
Published: April 2018

Community pharmacy teams are in a unique position to identify opportunities for medicines optimisation. Richard Brown describes a joint project carried out between Avon Local Pharmaceutical Committee and Bath and North East Somerset CCG that utilised community pharmacists to identify and reduce prescribing waste.
Classic paper: Are the chickenpox virus and the zoster virus identical?
Authors: Kruger Detlev H. , Mertens Thomas
Published: April 2018

As early as 1943, the German physician Helmut Ruska visualized the virus of varicella and zoster (at that time, he was not completely certain whether the virus was the same) by the newly developed electron microscope; he is regarded as the discoverer of this virus. Here, we present a translation of his classical paper into the English language. In our introduction and commentary to his paper, we discuss the significance of Helmut Ruska's work for the development of virology, his distinction between the varicella, zoster, and herpes virus group on one hand and poxviruses on the other, as well as the development of imaging techniques which have refined or substituted for electron microscopy of viruses and virus‐infected cells.
Opportunistic remote sensing of rainfall using microwave links from cellular communication networks
Authors: Uijlenhoet Remko , Overeem Aart , Leijnse Hidde
Published: April 2018

Microwave backhaul links from cellular communication networks provide a valuable “opportunistic” source of high‐resolution space–time rainfall information, complementing traditional in situ measurement devices (rain gauges, disdrometers) and remote sensors (weather radars, satellites). Over the past decade, a growing community of researchers has, in close collaboration with cellular communication companies, developed retrieval algorithms to convert the raw microwave link signals, stored operationally by their network management systems, to hydrometeorologically useful rainfall estimates. Operational meteorological and hydrological services as well as private consulting firms are showing an increased interest in using this complementary source of rainfall information to improve the products and services they provide to end users from different sectors, from water management and weather prediction to agriculture and traffic control. The greatest potential of these opportunistic environmental sensors lies in those geographical areas over the land surface of the Earth where the densities of traditional rainfall measurement devices are low: mountainous and urban areas and the developing world. This article provides a nonexpert summary of the history, theory, challenges, and opportunities toward continental‐scale rainfall monitoring using microwave links from cellular communication networks.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Methods

Science of Water > Hydrological Processes
$$ \mathcal{N}=2 $$ supersymmetric AdS4 solutions of type IIB supergravity
Authors: Passias Achilleas , Solard Gautier , Tomasiello Alessandro
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We analyze general

$$ \mathcal{N}=2 $$

N
=
2

supersymmetric AdS4 solutions of type IIB supergravity. Utilizing a set of pure spinor equations directly adapted to

$$ \mathcal{N}=2 $$

N
=
2

, the necessary and sufficient conditions for supersymmetry are reduced to a concise system of partial differential equations for two functions which determine the solutions. We show that using this system analytic solutions can be generated, thus potentially expanding the rather limited set of known AdS4 solutions in type IIB supergravity.
The classical double copy in maximally symmetric spacetimes
Authors: González Mariana Carrillo , Penco Riccardo , Trodden Mark
Published: April 2018

Abstract

The classical double copy procedure relates classical asymptotically-flat gravitational field solutions to Yang-Mills and scalar field solutions living in Minkowski space. In this paper we extend this correspondence to maximally symmetric curved spacetimes. We consider asymptotically (A)dS spacetimes in Kerr-Schild form and construct the corresponding single and zeroth copies. In order to clarify the interpretation of these copies, we study several examples including (A)dS-Schwarzschild, (A)dS-Kerr, black strings, black branes, and waves, paying particular attention to the source terms. We find that the single and zeroth copies of stationary solutions satisfy different equations than those of wave solutions. We also consider how to obtain Einstein-Maxwell solutions using this procedure. Finally, we derive the classical single and zeroth copy of the BTZ black hole.
Advances in computer‐assisted syndrome recognition by the example of inborn errors of metabolism
Authors: Pantel Jean T. , Zhao Max , Mensah Martin A. , Hajjir Nurulhuda , Hsieh Tzung‐Chien , Hanani Yair , Fleischer Nicole , Kamphans Tom , Mundlos Stefan , Gurovich Yaron , Krawitz Peter M.
Published: April 2018

Significant improvements in automated image analysis have been achieved in recent years and tools are now increasingly being used in computer‐assisted syndromology. However, the ability to recognize a syndromic facial gestalt might depend on the syndrome and may also be confounded by severity of phenotype, size of available training sets, ethnicity, age, and sex. Therefore, benchmarking and comparing the performance of deep‐learned classification processes is inherently difficult. For a systematic analysis of these influencing factors we chose the lysosomal storage diseases mucolipidosis as well as mucopolysaccharidosis type I and II that are known for their wide and overlapping phenotypic spectra. For a dysmorphic comparison we used Smith‐Lemli‐Opitz syndrome as another inborn error of metabolism and Nicolaides‐Baraitser syndrome as another disorder that is also characterized by coarse facies. A classifier that was trained on these five cohorts, comprising 289 patients in total, achieved a mean accuracy of 62%. We also developed a simulation framework to analyze the effect of potential confounders, such as cohort size, age, sex, or ethnic background on the distinguishability of phenotypes. We found that the true positive rate increases for all analyzed disorders for growing cohorts (n = [10...40]) while ethnicity and sex have no significant influence. The dynamics of the accuracies strongly suggest that the maximum distinguishability is a phenotype‐specific value, which has not been reached yet for any of the studied disorders. This should also be a motivation to further intensify data sharing efforts, as computer‐assisted syndrome classification can still be improved by enlarging the available training sets.
Effects of the density of the invasive macrophyte Hydrilla verticillata and root competition on growth of one native macrophyte in different sediment fertilities
Authors: Silveira Márcio José , Alves Diego Corrêa , Thomaz Sidinei Magela
Published: April 2018

The occurrence of non‐native species at high densities may generate competition for resources and possibly exclude native species in various environments. We evaluated the effects of increased densities of the non‐native invasive macrophyte Hydrilla verticillata on the growth of the native species Egeria najas in different sediment types and with only root interactions or root + shoot interactions. We tested the hypothesis that the effect of the invasive on the native species is density dependent and that it is greater when competition for light and nutrients occurs (root + shoot interactions). The results of these experiments demonstrated that increased density of the invasive species H. verticillata significantly decreased the growth of the native species independent of sediment type (sand or mud sediments). When plants competed for water and sediment resources (root + shoot interactions), the native species was more impacted by the invasive than when they competed only for water resources (only shoots interacting). Our results show that E. najas is probably unable to colonize sites highly colonized by hydrilla, and this applies to both sand and mud sediments. This outcome suggests that H. verticillata is a threat for E. najas and likely other native submerged species in South America.
Elevation induced variation in the breeding traits of a nectar‐feeding non‐flying mammal
Authors: Goldingay Ross L. , Rueegger Niels
Published: April 2018

Factors that influence reproduction in nectar‐feeding non‐flying mammals are poorly described. We investigated factors that may influence the breeding traits of the eastern pygmy‐possum (Cercartetus nanus), a small (25 g) nectar‐feeding marsupial from eastern Australia. Females at our coastal site produced 1–3 litters (frequently of 5–6 young) over an 8‐month period within the flowering period of the dominant food plant (Banksia ericifolia). The number of lactating females over time was highly correlated (R = 0.9) with the abundance of flowers on B. ericifolia, suggesting that flower availability has a substantial influence on breeding. To assess the generality of these findings and investigate whether elevation or latitude influence breeding in this species, we examined the breeding traits previously described at three other locations. Females on the tableland 70 km away produced one litter of 3–4 young over a 4‐month period within the flowering period of B. ericifolia, the dominant food plant. At other coastal and tableland locations 500 km away, coastal females produced larger numbered litters more often than tableland females. A hypothesis relating to minimum temperature appears the most plausible explanation for this pattern that reflects elevation but not latitude. The mean minimum temperature drops below 5 °C for 2–5 months each year at the tableland locations but not at all at the coastal locations. Low temperatures are known to reduce nectar secretion in the dominant food plants. Thus, although the breeding traits of the eastern pygmy‐possum are influenced by flowering in their dominant food plants, low temperature appears to impose a constraint on reproductive output.
Volume Management in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Patients: An Expert Pulmonary Hypertension Clinician Perspective
Authors: Hansen Lillian , Burks Marsha , Kingman Martha , Stewart Traci
Published: April 2018

Fluid volume management in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is essential in preventing right ventricular failure. Volume overload may be caused by disease progression, indiscretion of dietary sodium and fluid intake, or medication side effects, and is a frequent complication in patients with PAH. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) who care for patients with PAH have a key role in monitoring, preventing, and managing volume overload. Volume management techniques in patients with PAH include managing diuretic use and electrolyte imbalances, and monitoring fluid retention that can occur from the use of endothelin receptor antagonists or calcium channel blockers. Healthcare providers can create volume management protocols as well as patient educational materials. Patients should be educated to self-monitor their daily weights, incorporate dietary restrictions, and recognize symptoms associated with volume overload. Tools to help HCPs with volume management in patients with PAH are provided in this article.

Funding Actelion Pharmaceuticals US, Inc.
Hormone Levels and Sexual Functioning After Risk-Reducing Salpingo-Oophorectomy
Authors: Johansen Nora , Liavaag Astrid H. , Mørkrid Lars , Michelsen Trond M.
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Women after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) can have impaired sexual functioning, but whether there is an association between hormone levels and sexual functioning is unclear.

Aim

To determine whether hormone levels are associated with sexual functioning in women after RRSO.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of 198 sexually active and 91 inactive women after RRSO. Participants completed the Sexual Activity Questionnaire, questionnaires concerning hormone replacement therapy (HRT), quality of life, care from partner, body image, and comorbidity and provided blood samples. Associations between sexual functioning scores and covariates were examined by linear regression. Variables associated with sexual activity were examined by logistic regression.

Main Outcome Measures

Associations with sexual pleasure and sexual discomfort scores were expressed by multivariable regression coefficients and associations with sexual activity were expressed by odds ratios.

Results

None of the hormone levels were associated with sexual pleasure in contrast to age (P = .032), current use of systemic HRT (P = .002), and more care form partner (P < .001). Increased free androgen index (P = .016), more care from partner (P = .017), systemic HRT (P = .002), and no history of cardiovascular disease (P = .001) were associated with less sexual discomfort. The odds ratio of being sexually active increased with younger age, no breast cancer, better quality of life, and more care from partner.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that other factors than hormone levels are important for sexual functioning, although systemic HRT can have a positive impact on sexual functioning in women who have undergone RRSO. Testosterone therapy could improve women's sexual functioning after RRSO; however, the inverse association between free androgen levels and sexual discomfort should be addressed in future studies.
Comparison of Correlated Comorbidities in Male and Female Sexual Dysfunction: Findings From the Third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3)
Authors: Polland Allison , Davis Meghan , Zeymo Alexander , Venkatesan Krishnan
Published: April 2018

Background

Many of the same mechanisms involved in the sexual arousal-response system in men exist in women and can be affected by underlying general medical conditions.

Aim

To assess whether sexual function in men and women is correlated with similar comorbidities.

Methods

This study was a secondary analysis of the 3rd National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3), a prospective stratified probability sample of British individuals 16 to 74 years old interviewed from 2010 to 2012. We assessed for an association between sexual function and the following comorbidities: heart attack, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes, chronic lung disease, depression, other mental health conditions, other neurologic conditions, obesity, menopause, incontinence, smoking status, and age.

Outcome

An association was found between multiple medical comorbidities and sexual dysfunction in women and in men.

Results

6,711 women and 4,872 men responded to the survey, were in a relationship, and reported sexual activity in the past year. The average age of the women was 35.4 ± 14.1 and that of the men was 36.8 ± 15.6. There was an association between sexual function and all variables assessed except for chronic lung disease, heart attack, and incontinence in women compared with stroke, other neurologic conditions, incontinence, and smoking status in men. Comorbidities associated with erectile dysfunction included depression, diabetes, and other heart disease, whereas comorbidities associated with difficulty with lubrication included depression and other heart disease. Menopause was predictive of sexual dysfunction. Male sexual function appeared to decline after 45.5 years of age.

Clinical Implications

Physicians should be aware of the correlation between medical comorbidities and sexual dysfunction in women and men and should ask patients about specific symptoms that might be associated with underlying medical conditions.

Strengths and Limitations

Use of a stratified probability sample compared with a convenience sample results in capturing of associations representative of the population. Inclusion of multiple comorbidities in the multivariate analysis allows us to understand the effects of several variables on sexual function. Although this study shows only an association, further research could determine whether there is a causal relation between comorbidities and sexual dysfunction in women.

Conclusion

Multiple medical comorbidities are associated with sexual dysfunction not only in men but also in women.
Taking control of metal powder properties: Exploring the benefits of real-time particle sizing
Authors: DeNigris Jeff
Published: April 2018

The growing use of powder metallurgy (PM) processes is directly attributable to the opportunities they offer to reduce costs and/or enable the manufacture of components with properties that cannot be accessed via conventional subtractive techniques.
PM Personality: Professor emeritus Randall M. German, FASM, FAPMI
Authors: Capus Joseph
Published: April 2018

During a break in the program at the recent MIM2018 international conference in Irvine, California, Metal Powder Report consulting editor Joseph Capus interviewed Dr. Randall German, now Emeritus Professor at San Diego State University, about his outstanding academic career in PM.
Environmental Valuation and Benefit-Cost Analysis in U.K. Policy
Authors: Atkinson Giles , Groom Ben , Hanley Nicholas , Mourato Susana
Published: April 2018

This paper presents an evaluation of the use of environmental valuation – techniques to assign monetary values to environmental impacts of policies and projects, especially nonmarket impacts – in U.K. policy. In doing so, we seek to contribute to the debate, more generally, of the use and influence of benefit-cost analysis (BCA) in national policy processes such as Impact Assessment. Specifically, our contribution in this paper is two-fold. First, we identify a number of trends that have characterized U.K. policy use of environmental valuation over the past two or so decades. While this has notably involved development of “sharable values” allowing more widespread uptake, it also seems that different branches of government have developed different traditions of use adding nuance to what, on the face of it, is otherwise a shared endeavor. Second, we evaluate the extent to which the use of environmental valuation can be said to have influenced policy decisions and the degree to which this is embedded by evolving policy processes. As such, we discuss two areas of environmental policy – water quality improvements and natural capital – which have entailed either substantial use of environmental valuation either in determining specific policy and investment project options or where this has helped shape the broader policy agenda. Our evaluation is not exhaustive; nor do our findings suggest that environmental valuation and BCA are necessarily the dominant driver of decisions, as we discuss. However, in recognizing this, we argue it is also important to consider a number of established or evolving cultural and legal institutional processes which broadly appear to support our assessment of such cases.
Nursing Home Physicians Discuss Caring for Elderly Residents: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Banerjee Albert , James Robert , McGregor Margaret , Lexchin Joel
Published: April 2018

Malgré la complexité croissante des soins en foyers de soins de longue durée, le rôle des médecins dans la prestation des soins aux résidents a été peu étudié. Cette étude exploratoire internationale visait à mieux comprendre les rôles des médecins, leurs responsabilités et leurs tâches, ainsi qu’à explorer les caractéristiques uniques de la pratique médicale dans les foyers de soins de longue durée. Des entrevues ont été menées avec 18 médecins. Ces médecins ont mentionné qu’ils contribuaient fortement à la qualité des soins pour les résidents, en clarifiant les objectifs des soins, en prenant des mesures pour réduire les hospitalisations et les prescriptions de médicaments non nécessaires, et en contribuant à la formation du personnel. Les pratiques en foyers de soins de longue durée impliquaient les médecins au centre de réseaux de relations qui assuraient non seulement une meilleure qualité des soins médicaux, mais aussi une satisfaction professionnelle chez les médecins. L’importance de ces relations est telle qu’elle permettait d’aller au-delà des démarcations traditionnelles entre le domaine médical et le domaine social, et mettait en évidence qu’une bonne pratique médicale implique de bonnes pratiques sociales. Considérant la nature exploratoire de l’étude, les auteurs recommandent que de futures recherches soient menées pour mieux comprendre les dimensions relationnelles associées à la pratique de la médecine en foyers de soins de longue durée.
Invasion moving boundary problem for a biofilm reactor model
Authors: D'ACUNTO B. , FRUNZO L. , LUONGO V. , MATTEI M. R.
Published: April 2018

The work presents the analysis of the free boundary value problem related to the one-dimensional invasion model of new species in biofilm reactors. In the framework of continuum approach to mathematical modelling of biofilm growth, the problem consists of a system of non-linear hyperbolic partial differential equations governing the microbial species growth and a system of semi-linear elliptic partial differential equations describing the substrate trends. The model is completed with a system of elliptic partial differential equations governing the diffusion and reaction of planktonic cells, which are able to switch their mode of growth from planktonic to sessile when specific environmental conditions are found. Two systems of non-linear differential equations for the substrate and planktonic cells mass balance within the bulk liquid are also considered. The free boundary evolution is governed by a differential equation that accounts for detachment. The qualitative analysis is performed and a uniqueness and existence result is presented. Furthermore, two special models of biological and engineering interest are discussed numerically. The invasion of Anammox bacteria in a constituted biofilm inhabiting the deammonification units of the wastewater treatment plants is simulated. Numerical simulations are run to evaluate the influence of the colonization process on biofilm structure and activity.
FromThere's Magic in MusictoThe Hard-Boiled Canary: Promoting “Good Music” in Prewar Musical Films
Authors: BOMBOLA GINA
Published: April 2018

In 1941, Paramount releasedThere's Magic in Music, a film about a soprano who sings opera in burlesque and wins a scholarship to attend Interlochen. The movie's utopian view of art music, however, caused difficulties for the studio in regard to marketing, leading to a studio-wide debate over the film's title. Archival documents positionThere's Magic in Musicas a valuable case study for investigating the transitional period of musical film production between the Great Depression and the onset of World War II, particularly with respect to operatic musicals. Just prior to the United States’ entry into the war, Hollywood moved away from the escapist fantasy of 1930s cinema toward the realism that would mark the 1940s. To reboot fading interest in musicals, studios toyed with the formula of the backstage musical to focus more on dramatic narratives and star power.There's Magic in Musicthus serves as a lens through which we might examine changes both in musical film production and in notions of “good music” at the eve of World War II.
Long‐Term Climate Simulations Using the IITM Earth System Model (IITM‐ESMv2) With Focus on the South Asian Monsoon
Authors: Swapna P. , Krishnan R. , Sandeep N. , Prajeesh A. G. , Ayantika D. C. , Manmeet S. , Vellore R.
Published: April 2018

Long‐term climate simulations are performed using the IITM Earth System Model version 2 (IITM‐ESMv2), a sequel to the earlier version (IITM‐ESMv1), to assess climate variability and change with a special focus on the South Asian monsoon. Substantial improvements are incorporated in IITM‐ESMv2 to obtain a radiatively balanced global climate modeling framework. The IITM‐ESMv2 includes time‐varying aerosol forcing and land‐use land‐cover changes. Multicentury simulations corresponding to preindustrial and present‐day conditions show major improvements in capturing key aspects of time‐mean atmosphere and ocean large‐scale circulation. Representations of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation and poleward ocean heat transport, and major global climate drivers are superior to ESMv1. Teleconnections of the South Asian monsoon with climate drivers such as the El‐Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) are found to be more robust in IITM‐ESMv2, thus leading to improved simulation of South Asian monsoon and its variability. The IITM‐ESMv2 takes a novel pursuit from India to contribute in the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) sixth assessment report (AR6).
Piecing Together the Big Picture on Water and Climate
Authors: Konecky Bronwen , Comas-Bru Laia , Dassié Emilie , DeLong Kristine , Partin Judson
Published: April 2018

A new database brings together water isotope data from many sources, providing an integrated resource for studying changes in Earth’s hydroclimate over the past 2,000 years.
Peering Beneath the Powder: Using Radar to Understand Avalanches
Authors: Cook Terri
Published: April 2018

High-resolution radar images from Switzerland’s experimental test site show that snow temperature is a key factor in classifying avalanche behavior.
Paper-based nucleic acid amplification tests for point-of-care diagnostics
Authors: Kaur Navjot , Toley Bhushan J.
Published: April 2018

A critical review of paper-based nucleic acid amplification tests with a focus on integration and sequence of operations.
Structural variation determined by length-matching effects: towards the formation of flexible porous molecular crystals
Authors: Kai Aiting , Sheng Yujie , Yao Junyao , Chen Qibin , Liu Honglai
Published: April 2018

The length ratio of the alkyl chain to the spacer will significantly influence the packing motif of gemini molecules.
Ageing, dissolution and biogenic formation of nanoparticles: how do these factors affect the uptake kinetics of silver nanoparticles in earthworms?
Authors: Baccaro M. , Undas A. K. , de Vriendt J. , van den Berg J. H. J. , Peters R. J. B. , van den Brink N. W.
Published: April 2018

Discrimination between nano (≥20 nm) and ionic Ag in earthworms exposed to Ag-NPs, Ag2S-NPs and AgNO3 reveals that accumulated silver is mainly present as ions.
Black rice anthocyanin-rich extract and rosmarinic acid, alone and in combination, protect against DSS-induced colitis in mice
Authors: Zhao Lei , Zhang Yali , Liu Guorong , Hao Shuai , Wang Chengtao , Wang Yong
Published: April 2018

Black rice anthocyanin-rich extract and rosmarinic acid ameliorated DSS-induced colitis in mice by down-regulating pro-inflammatory mediators and exhibited an additive interaction in reducing MPO, NO and the expression of some pro-inflammatory mediators.
The control of stereochemistry by the pentafluorosulfanyl group
Authors: Savoie Paul R. , von Hahmann Cortney N. , Penger Alexander , Wei Zheng , Welch John T.
Published: April 2018

The steric and electron withdrawing effects of the pentafluorosulfanyl group effectively direct the diastereoselectivity of the Staudinger reaction.
Electrochemical Hg2+detection at tannic acid-gold nanoparticle modified electrodes by square wave voltammetry
Authors: Suherman Alex L. , Kuss Sabine , Tanner Eden E. L. , Young Neil P. , Compton Richard G.
Published: April 2018

We report the electrochemical sensing of Hg2+based on tannic acid capped gold nanoparticle (AuNP@TA) complexes.
Fabrication of SiO2@COF5 microspheres and their application in high performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Wang Shulei , Zhang Lingyi , Xiao Ruili , Chen Haihong , Chu Zhanying , Zhang Weibing , Liu Fan
Published: April 2018

The structural regularity, atomically precise design, high surface area and adsorption affinity make covalent-organic frameworks (COFs) attractive as novel stationary phases in chromatography.
Evidence for anion-binding of all-cis hexafluorocyclohexane in solution and solid state
Authors: Shyshov Oleksandr , Siewerth Kevin Andre , von Delius Max
Published: April 2018

We report a solution NMR and X-ray crystallographic study on the anion affinity of all-cis 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexafluorocyclohexane, which has only recently become synthetically accessible.
Phase transition dynamics of single optically trapped aqueous potassium carbonate particles
Authors: Esat Kıvanç , David Grégory , Poulkas Theodoros , Shein Mikhail , Signorell Ruth
Published: April 2018

This study reveals that complex multiple processes occur during efflorescence and deliquescence in unsupported, submicron sized particles.
Tracking the energy flow in the hydrogen exchange reaction OH + H2O → H2O + OH
Authors: Zhu Yongfa , Ping Leilei , Bai Mengna , Liu Yang , Song Hongwei , Li Jun , Yang Minghui
Published: April 2018

The underlying energy flow accounts for the disparate efficiencies of the two stretching modes of the reactant H2O.
Redefining environmental nanomaterial flows: consequences of the regulatory nanomaterial definition on the results of environmental exposure models
Authors: Wigger Henning , Wohlleben Wendel , Nowack Bernd
Published: April 2018

This article shows the influence of the nanomaterial definition on the estimation of the mass transfers of nanomaterials into the environment.
Differential effects of metal oxide nanoparticles on zebrafish embryos and developing larvae
Authors: Peng Guotao , He Yuan , Zhao Mei , Yu Tianyu , Qin Yao , Lin Sijie
Published: April 2018

The differential effects and corresponding toxicity mechanisms of five metal oxide nanoparticles were investigated using zebrafish embryos and developing larvae.
Hepatoprotective activity of iridoids, seco-iridoids and analog glycosides from Gentianaceae on HepG2 cells via CYP3A4 induction and mitochondrial pathway
Authors: Dai Kang , Yi Xue-Jia , Huang Xian-Ju , Muhammad Azhar , Li Mei , Li Jun , Yang Guang-Zhong , Gao Yue
Published: April 2018

Gentianaceae herb extracts have been widely used as food additives, teas or medicinal remedies for various diseases and disorders of the human body.
Efficient and selective oxidation of toluene to benzaldehyde on manganese tungstate nanobars: a noble metal-free approach
Authors: Mal Diptangshu Datta , Khilari Santimoy , Pradhan Debabrata
Published: April 2018

An approach to synthesize MnWO4catalysts for the oxidation of toluene to benzaldehyde in a chlorine-free environment is demonstrated.
“Dip-and-read” paper-based analytical devices using distance-based detection with color screening
Authors: Yamada Kentaro , Citterio Daniel , Henry Charles S.
Published: April 2018

An improved paper-based analytical device (PAD) using color screening to enhance device performance is described.
Photochemical ligation meets nanocellulose: a versatile platform for self-reporting functional materials
Authors: Hoenders Daniel , Guo Jiaqi , Goldmann Anja S. , Barner-Kowollik Christopher , Walther Andreas
Published: April 2018

The fusion of tetrazole/maleimide-based photochemical ligation (self-reporting, selective) with cellulose nanofibrils (good mechanical properties, biocompatible, sustainable) establishes a versatile platform for bio-based advanced materials.
Foxtail millet-derived highly fluorescent multi-heteroatom doped carbon quantum dots towards fluorescent inks and smart nanosensors for selective ion detection
Authors: Chen Zhiyi , Zhao Zhiwei , Wang Zhengluo , Zhang Yanru , Sun Xuan , Hou Linrui , Yuan Changzhou
Published: April 2018

Foxtail millet-derived highly fluorescent nitrogen/sulfur/phosphrous (N/S/P) co-doped CQDs were efficiently fabricated via a green strategy, and were found to hold potential towards fluorescent inks and smart detection.
An unprecedented tandem synthesis of fluorescent coumarin-fused pyrimidines via copper-catalyzed cross-dehydrogenative C(sp3)–N bond coupling
Authors: Kumari Santosh , Shakoor S. M. Abdul , Khullar Sadhika , Mandal Sanjay K. , Sakhuja Rajeev
Published: April 2018

A Cu-catalyzed tandem strategy for the synthesis of coumarin-fused pyrimidin-5-ones involving in situ intramolecular cross-dehydrogenative C(sp3)–N bond formation.
Sodium phosphate synthesis through glycerol purification and its utilization for biodiesel production from dairy scum oil to economize production cost
Authors: Yatish K. V. , Lalithamba H. S. , Suresh R. , Dayananda G. N.
Published: April 2018

In the present study, sodium phosphate was synthesized through glycerol purification.
ZnS quantum dots@multilayered carbon: geological-plate-movement-inspired design for high-energy Li-ion batteries
Authors: Fang Daliang , Chen Shimou , Wang Xi , Bando Yoshio , Golberg Dmitri , Zhang Suojiang
Published: April 2018

Inspired by the geological plate movements that release the inner stresses of the Earth, a ZnS anode material composed of ZnS quantum dots@carbon nanosheets stacked together is designed for high-energy Li-ion batteries.
A flexible, self-healing and highly stretchable polymer electrolyte via quadruple hydrogen bonding for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhou Binghua , He Dan , Hu Ji , Ye Yunsheng , Peng Haiyan , Zhou Xingping , Xie Xiaolin , Xue Zhigang
Published: April 2018

This article reports flexible PEO-based electrolytes with self-healing and highly stretchable properties for lithium-ion batteries.
A reduction-responsive liposomal nanocarrier with self-reporting ability for efficient gene delivery
Authors: Wang Bing , Zhang Ji , Liu Yan-Hong , Zhang Wei , Xiao Ya-Ping , Zhao Rui-Mo , Yu Xiao-Qi
Published: April 2018

A naphthalimide-sulfonamide-based bioreducible liposomal carrier is prepared for real-time self-reporting the reduction-responsive process in gene delivery via the generated fluorescence signal.
Analytical modeling of hyperthermia using magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Bensenane Mohamed Nassim , Senoudi Assia Rachida , Benmouna Reda , Ould-Kaddour Fouzia
Published: April 2018

Hyperthermia using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) is one of many techniques to treat cancer causing minimal damage to healthy tissues. In the present work we give an analytical resolution of the bio-heat equation (based on Pennes model) providing the temperature rise as a function of the characteristics of the magnetic nanoparticles, the applied magnetic field and the biological properties of the tissue. The temperature inside the tumor was found to be very sensitive to the frequencyfof alternating magnetic field, magnetic field amplitudeH0and volume fractionφ. This study optimizes the intensity of magnetic field to reach ideal hyperthermia conditions. Whenfvaries between 50 and 150 KHz, temperature increases from 39 °C until 53 °C; whenH0is ranged from 5 − 15 kA/m, it increases from 39.5 °C until 49 °C, and when volume fractionφof MNPs is ranged from 2 × 10−4to  3 × 10−4it increases from 44 °C until 48 °C.
Zooplankton communities in Mediterranean temporary lakes: the case of saline lakes in Cyprus
Authors: Karagianni Aikaterini , Stamou Georgia , Katsiapi Matina , Polykarpou Polina , Dörflinger Gerald , Michaloudi Evangelia
Published: April 2018

Temporary saline lakes are diverse ecosystems mostly located in arid areas. In the Mediterranean region they are among the most remarkable, but also the most threatened habitats; thus, effective management and conservation plans need to consider their special hydrological and ecological features and requirements. They are mainly fishless systems and so zooplankton is the driver of the trophic cascade. Our aim was to determine zooplankton communities' composition and biomass in seven temporary saline lakes of Cyprus and investigate their relation with environmental variables. Salinity ranged between <2 and 300 ppt and was a key factor shaping zooplankton community. In hyposaline conditions zooplankton communities exhibited higher species diversity than in meso- and hypersaline conditions. Hyposaline lakes were dominated by Arctodiaptomus salinus (Daday, 1885), Daphnia magna Straus, 1820 and Moina brachiata (Jurine, 1820) in terms of biomass, while meso- and hypersaline lakes by anostracans Artemia salina (Linnaeus, 1758) and Phallocryptus spinosus (Milne-Edwards, 1840) or M. brachiata and D. magna highlighting competition as another factor shaping the zooplankton community. We conclude that zooplankton reflects environmental pressures, such as salinity fluctuations which are closely related to water level fluctuations, in the mostly fishless Mediterranean temporary saline lakes. Moreover, salinity fluctuations should be considered a key factor for typological considerations in quality assessments, restoration and management plans in temporary saline systems since it can reflect the hydrological variations on the communities across different years and seasons by salinity gradient even for the same water body.
Updates on MR-Guided Focused Ultrasound for Symptomatic Uterine Fibroids
Authors: Kohi Maureen , Sridhar Divya
Published: April 2018

Magnetic-resonance–guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS), also called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is an effective, noninvasive uterine-preserving treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids. As the use of this therapeutic modality is not yet widespread, it may remain unfamiliar to many interventional radiologists. The purpose of this review is to discuss MRgFUS, including technology, patient selection, technique, outcomes, complications, and recent data on fertility and comparative effectiveness.
Updates on Uterine Artery Embolization
Authors: Spies James , Kohi Maureen
Published: April 2018

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are the most common benign neoplasm of the female pelvis and have a lifetime prevalence exceeding 80% among African American women and approaching 70% among Caucasian women. Approximately 50% of women with fibroids experience symptoms which may include menorrhagia that may result in anemia, bulk symptoms with bladder and bowel dysfunction and abdominal protrusion, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Hysterectomy remains the most common treatment option for fibroids and concerns have been raised about the overuse of this procedure. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is now a well-established uterine preserving and minimally invasive therapy for symptomatic fibroids. Since its introduction, strong evidence for safety and efficacy of UAE has been generated with low rates of complications. This review will discuss UAE for the management of symptomatic uterine fibroids with special focus on emerging technical approaches and novel periprocedural patient care.
Effective ion charge (Zeff) measurements and impurity behavior in KSTAR
Authors: Sarwar S. , Na H. K. , Park J. M.
Published: April 2018

A visible bremsstrahlung detector array diagnostic system has been developed on the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR) to view the whole minor radius in a narrow region of the continuum free of spectral lines. The interference filters coupled with photomultiplier tubes have been employed to determine the effective charge Zeff by using visible bremsstrahlung data during neutral beam injection in the KSTAR plasma. The Zeff profiles are typically flat for L-mode plasmas and evolve to hollow profiles during the H mode in the KSTAR. A comparison of the visible bremsstrahlung emission based on the calculated Zeff profiles is consistent with measured values of Zeff from a visible spectrometer in the core plasma. The electron temperature is measured by X-ray imaging crystal spectrometry, and electron density needed for the analysis is taken by the assumption of parabolic profiles of these parameters. The line of sight averaged local bremsstrahlung emissivity is determined with low uncertainty, and the radial emissivity is obtained by using the Abel inversion technique. In addition, a dependence of effective charge Zeff on the line-averaged electron density is evaluated, and Zeff is also determined to observe the effect of boronization.
Sum frequency generation spectroscopy of tetraalkylphosphonium ionic liquids at the air–liquid interface
Authors: Peñalber-Johnstone Chariz , Adamová Gabriela , Plechkova Natalia V. , Bahrami Maryam , Ghaed-Sharaf Tahereh , Ghatee Mohammad Hadi , Seddon Kenneth R. , Baldelli Steven
Published: April 2018

Sum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy is a nonlinear vibrational spectroscopic technique used in the study of interfaces, due to its unique ability to distinguish surface molecules that have preferential ordering compared to the isotropic bulk. Here, a series of alkyltrioctylphosphonium chloride ionic liquids, systematically varied by cation structure, were characterized at the air-liquid interface by SFG. The effect on surface structure resulting from molecular variation (i.e., addition of cyano- and methoxy-functional groups) of the cation alkyl chain was investigated. SFG spectra in the C—H stretching region (2750–3100 cm−1) for [P8 8 8 n][Cl], where n = 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, or 14, showed characteristic changes as the alkyl chain length was increased. Spectral profiles for n = 4, 5, 8, or 10 appeared similar; however, when the fourth alkyl chain was sufficiently long (as in the case of n = 12 or n = 14), abrupt changes occurred in the spectra. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of a slab of each ionic liquid (with n = 8, 10, or 12) confirmed gauche defects, with enhancement for the long alkyl chain and an abrupt increase of gauche occurrence from n = 8 to n = 10. A comparison of the tilt angle distribution from the simulation and the SFG analysis show a broad distribution of angles. Using experimental SFG spectra in conjunction with MD simulations, a comprehensive molecular picture at the surface of this unique class of liquids is presented.