bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical porous carbon obtained from frozen tofu for efficient energy storage
Authors: Sun Xuemei , Ye Jianglin , Pan Fei , Xu Jin , Cheng Tao , Wang Xiangyang , Ikram Mujtaba , Zhu Yanwu
Published: June 2018

A supercapacitor made up of carbon from frozen tofu could readily power 25 red LEDs in parallel for more than 2 min after being charged for 25 s.
Direct reduction of oxygen gas over dendritic carbons with hierarchical porosity: beyond the diffusion limitation
Authors: Feng Wei-Jie , Lin Yun-Xiao , Zhao Tian-Jian , Zhang Peng-Fei , Su Hui , Lv Li-Bing , Li Xin-Hao , Chen Jie-Sheng
Published: June 2018

Direct activation of oxygen gas is achieved over dendritic carbons, resulting in an ultra-high current density without a diffusion plateau.
Temperature gradient in the solar photosphere. Test of a new spectroscopic method and study of its feasibility for ground-based telescopes
Authors: Faurobert M. , Carbillet M. , Marquis L. , Chiavassa A. , Ricort G.
Published: June 2018

Context. The contribution of quiet-Sun regions to the solar irradiance variability is currently unclear. Some solar-cycle variations of the quiet-Sun physical structure, such as the temperature gradient, might affect the irradiance. The synoptic measurement of this quantity along the activity cycle would improve our understanding of long-term irradiance variations.

Aims. We intend to test a method previously introduced for measuring the photospheric temperature gradient from high-resolution spectroscopic observation and to study its feasibility with ground-based instruments with and without adaptative optics.

Methods. We used synthetic profiles of the FeI 630.15 nm obtained from realistic three-dimensional hydrodynamical simulations of the photospheric granulation and line radiative transfer computations under local thermodynamical equilibrium conditions. Synthetic granulation images at different levels in the line are obtained by convolution with the instrumental point spread function (PSF) under various conditions of atmospheric turbulence, with and without correction by an adaptative optics (AO) system. The PSF are obtained with the PAOLA software, and the AO performances are inspired by the system that will be operating on theDaniel K. InouyeSolar Telescope.

Results. We consider two different conditions of atmospheric turbulence, with Fried parameters of 7 cm and 5 cm, respectively. We show that the degraded images lead to both a bias and a loss of precision in the temperature-gradient measurement, and that the correction with the AO system allows us to drastically improve the measurement quality.

Conclusions. Long-term synoptic observations of the temperature gradient in the solar photosphere can be undertaken by implementing this method on ground-based solar telescopes that are equipped with an AO correction system.
In pursuit of photo-induced magnetic and chiral microscopy
Authors: Zeng Jinwei , Kamandi Mohammad , Darvishzadeh-Varcheie Mahsa , Albooyeh Mohammad , Veysi Mehdi , Guclu Caner , Hanifeh Mina , Rajaei Mohsen , Potma Eric O. , Wickramasinghe H.Kumar , Capolino Filippo
Published: June 2018

Light-matter interactions enable the perception of specimen properties such as its shape and dimensions by measuring the subtle differences carried by an illuminating beam after interacting with the sample. However, major obstacles arise when the relevant properties of the specimen are weakly coupled to the incident beam, for example when measuring optical magnetism and chirality. To address this challenge we propose the idea of detecting such weakly-coupled properties of matter through the photo-induced force, aiming at developing photo-induced magnetic or chiral force microscopy. Here we review our pursuit consisting of the following steps: (1) Development of a theoretical blueprint of a magnetic nanoprobe to detect a magnetic dipole oscillating at an optical frequency when illuminated by an azimuthally polarized beam via the photo-induced magnetic force; (2) Conducting an experimental study using an azimuthally polarized beam to probe the near fields and axial magnetism of a Si disk magnetic nanoprobe, based on photo-induced force microscopy; (3) Extending the concept of force microscopy to probe chirality at the nanoscale, enabling enantiomeric detection of chiral molecules. Finally, we discuss difficulties and how they could be overcome, as well as our plans for future work.
Comparison tests for the determination of the viscosity values of reference liquids by capillary viscometers and stabinger viscometer SVM 3001
Authors: Sariyerli Gokce Sevim , Sakarya Orhan , Akcadag Umit Yuksel
Published: June 2018

The present study was realized for measuring viscosities of reference liquids using capillary viscometers and Stabinger viscometer SVM 3001 with viscosity interval between 1 mm2/s and 5000 mm2/s with temperatures from 20 °C to 80 °C. Based on our measurement with various liquids, we determine the viscosity values and compare both of the results. The aim of this study to evaluate the results of the primary level viscosity measurement system and stabinger viscometer and to compare the measurement results due to the providing traceability of Stabinger viscometer by TUBITAK UME. An increasing number of national metrology institutes and accredited laboratories provide viscometer calibration with reference liquids in a wide viscosity range. It is a common practice to use the viscosity of water as the metrological basic of viscometry. The national standard of viscosity provided by TUBITAK UME consists of a set of ubbelohde viscometers covering the measuring range of kinematic viscosities from about 0.5 mm2/s to 100 000 mm2/s. At the low viscosity, long − capillary viscometers are used as primary standards which are directly calibrated water.
L’animation scientifique dans la pratique interdisciplinaire : l’expérience du GIS Climat Environnement Société (2007-2015)
Authors: De Pryck Kari , Vanderlinden Jean-Paul , Billaud Jean-Paul
Published: June 2018

Alors que les appels en faveur de l’interdisciplinarité se multiplient, en particulier dans les études sur le changement climatique et ses impacts, cette démarche reste encore un objet méconnu pour de nombreux chercheurs. Au-delà des débats épistémologiques sur la définition de l’interdisciplinarité, sa mise en œuvre pratique reste également peu discutée. Dans la lignée des réflexions sur l’interdisciplinarité comme approche forgée au moyen d’interactions et de dialogues, cet article propose de revenir sur le rôle de l’animation scientifique dans la construction de cette démarche, en décrivant l’expérience du GIS CES (Groupement d’intérêt scientifique Climat Environnement Société). Nous présentons les réflexions au sein du groupement ainsi que les initiatives et outils développés et testés pour renforcer le dialogue interdisciplinaire.
WCC 2017-C-103: Emergency Surgical Retrieval of Embolized Atrial Septal Defect Closure Device from Left Atrium
Authors: Dontineni Praveen , Mishra Ramesh , Malempati Amaresh
Published: June 2018

With the introduction of technological improvements, invasive cardiologic interventions have become increasingly used alternatives to surgery. Despite its numerous benefits, serious and potentially life-threatening complications of invasive cardiology interventions may occur. Atrial septal defect is usually closed in the cardiac catheterisation laboratory using atrial septal occluder (ASO) device. One of the complications associated with the procedure is dislodgement of the device. We present a case of percutaneous trans catheter closure of an ostium secundum atrial septal defect in a 21 years old female, complicated by device dislodgement to the left atrium necessitating emergency surgical retrieval.
WCC 2017-A-112: CT Angiographic Assessment of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
Authors: Mashirkar Abhishek , Sonawane Bhwana
Published: June 2018

Introduction: CT Angiography (CTA) is a noninvasive imaging modality to evaluate the vascular system. In coronary artery bypass graft patients, this study is helpful to evaluate the status of graft.
Das unsichtbare Symptom
Authors: Klingebiel Alessa
Published: June 2018

Ständige oder plötzlich auftretende totale Erschöpfung – der Akku ist leer, es fehlt die Kraft die alltäglichsten Aufgaben zu bewältigen. Fatigue ist
eines der am häufigsten unterschätzten Begleitsymptome vieler neurologischer oder onkologischer Erkrankungen und deren Therapie. Es schränkt den Alltag und die
Lebensqualität der Betroffenen und ihrer Angehörigen stark ein.
Muskelschmerz
Authors: Lütgendorf F. , Triantafyllias K.
Published: June 2018

Myalgien zählen zu den häufigsten Gründen für eine Vorstellung beim Rheumatologen oder Orthopäden. Die Ursachen einer Myalgie sind vielfältig und können ein Trauma, übermäßige körperliche Anstrengung und virale Infekte ebenso umfassen wie eine Genese auf der Basis ernsthafter, nicht entzündlicher Myopathien oder Myositiden. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit richten wir einen Fokus sowohl auf die Diagnostik von häufig auftretenden und damit auch fachübergreifend gut bekannten Krankheitsbildern als auch auf solche, die seltener im rheumatologischen Alltag vorkommen. Vom recht geläufigen chronischen Schmerzsyndrom Fibromyalgie bis hin zum seltenen Krankheitsbild des Antisynthetase-Syndroms werden hier neben den klinischen Bildern neue Daten zu laborchemischen, histologischen und radiologischen Auffälligkeiten der wichtigsten rheumatologischen Erkrankungen diskutiert, welche charakteristisch mit Myalgien einhergehen. Im Rahmen dieser Arbeit wird eines deutlich: Die Komplexität dieser Krankheitsbilder und der Umfang aktueller Forschungsergebnisse fordern die kontinuierliche Schulung der behandelnden Ärzte und eine enge interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit der unterschiedlichen Fachdisziplinen.
A generalized linear response framework for expanded ensemble and replica exchange simulations
Authors: Radak Brian K. , Suh Donghyuk , Roux Benoît
Published: June 2018

Expanded ensemble simulation is a powerful technique for enhancing sampling over a range of thermodynamic parameters. However, although the premise is relatively simple, running successful simulations in practice still presents something of an ad hoc challenge. Three main difficulties exist: (1) the selection of the thermodynamic states, (2) the selection of the sampling weights, and (3) efficient sampling of the expanded parameter space. Here we consider these problems in the context of a pairwise linear response approach to the work fluctuation theorem. The approach offers comprehensive tactics for addressing the three difficulties and can be used as either an alternative or a complement to replica exchange simulations. Importantly, the results are trivially implemented for multi-dimensional parameter spaces and they recover results from the literature aimed at the special cases of simulated/parallel tempering and replica exchange umbrella sampling. Illustrative examples are shown using the NAMD simulation engine.
Simultaneous 8.2 keV phase-contrast imaging and 24.6 keV X-ray diffraction from shock-compressed matter at the LCLS
Authors: Seiboth F. , Fletcher L. B. , McGonegle D. , Anzellini S. , Dresselhaus-Cooper L. E. , Frost M. , Galtier E. , Goede S. , Harmand M. , Lee H. J. , Levitan A. L. , Miyanishi K. , Nagler B. , Nam I. , Ozaki N. , Rödel M. , Schropp A. , Spindloe C. , Sun P. , Wark J. S. , Hastings J. , Glenzer S. H. , McBride E. E.
Published: June 2018

In this work, we demonstrate simultaneous phase-contrast imaging (PCI) and X-ray diffraction from shock compressed matter at the Matter in Extreme Conditions endstation, at the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS). We utilize the chromaticity from compound refractive X-ray lenses to focus the 24.6 keV 3rd order undulator harmonic of the LCLS to a spot size of 5 μm on target to perform X-ray diffraction. Simultaneous PCI from the 8.2 keV fundamental X-ray beam is used to visualize and measure the transient properties of the shock wave over a 500 μm field of view. Furthermore, we demonstrate the ability to extend the reciprocal space measurements by 5 Å−1, relative to the fundamental X-ray energy, by utilizing X-ray diffraction from the 3rd harmonic of the LCLS.
Investigation on eigenvalues of TM modes in coaxial cavity with inner-outer corrugations
Authors: Zhipeng Wang , Yu Sheng , Chen Rutai , Huang Wenjin
Published: June 2018

Here we present a detailed study on eigenvalues for TM modes. In order to achieve enough accuracy, the spatial harmonics method (SHM) is used to derive the eigenfunction of TM modes in the coaxial cavity with both inner and outer corrugations. After that, the equations can be numerically solved with some constraints. Meanwhile, the influences of the variations of the corrugation parameters on the eigenvalues of TM modes are analyzed carefully, which is helpful for us to learn the distribution rule of the TM modes. In addition, the differences and similarities between TM and TE modes are studied comprehensively to select the suitable mode in the coaxial cavity. The numerical results are presented in this paper, the comparisons are also made with the published results.
A novel approach to fixing dynamic instabilities in laser arrays with non-Hermitian coupling
Authors: Michaud Sarah
Published: June 2018

The emerging field of non-Hermitian photonics could provide solutions to old problems in laser science and technology by helping coupled semiconductor laser-array systems achieve stable-laser operation.
An attosecond view of electron–nuclear coupling
Authors: Miller Johanna L.
Published: June 2018

Even as a hydrogen molecule breaks apart, the dissociating protons hold sway over an escaping electron.
The improbable clouds at the edge of the atmosphere
Authors: Karlsson Bodil , Shepherd Theodore G.
Published: June 2018

The combined effects of ozone, sunlight, and atmospheric waves turn the near void of Earth’s mesosphere into a refrigerator capable of producing vast clouds of water ice.
Epichloë occultans infection in Australian Lolium rigidum is associated with cropping history and environment but not with herbicide resistance status of host plant
Authors: Moore Joseph R. , Pratley James E. , Weston Leslie A. , Mace Wade J. , Broster John C. , Kirkby Karen A.
Published: June 2018

Annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum Gaud.) is a troublesome invasive plant in southern Australian cropping systems and is typically infected with a fungal endophyte, Epichloë occultans. Potential links between herbicide resistance and endophyte infection were investigated in this study. We surveyed 391 ryegrass populations from geographically distinct, naturalised pasture and cropping areas across southern Australia and compared frequencies of seed-borne endophyte infection in the collected seed samples from mature annual ryegrass. Data on herbicide resistance from similar seedlots were cross-referenced with endophyte infection frequency to examine the potential relationship between herbicide resistance and endophyte infection. Seeds from cropping paddocks exhibited a significantly higher frequency of endophyte infection than pasture paddocks sampled from the same region. Frequencies of endophyte infection in annual ryegrass declined across Australia during 2001–09, whereas the opposite trend was observed during 2009–12. Impacts of the Australian Millennium Drought, the correspondingly altered rainfall patterns and environmental selection pressures have a role in determining observed endophyte infection frequencies. However, there was no significant correlation between endophyte frequency and herbicide resistance in the populations evaluated. Differences in endophyte infection frequencies were associated with farming practices, and require further examination to determine causative selection pressures encountered in Australian field settings.
Oestrogen-induced expression of decay accelerating factor is spatiotemporally antagonised by progesterone–progesterone receptor signalling in mouse uterus
Authors: Lee Miji , Lee Hyang Ah , Park Mira , Park Hee Kyoung , Kim Yeon Sun , Yang Seung Chel , Kim Hye-Ryun , Kim Jayeon , Song Haengseok
Published: June 2018

Decay accelerating factor (DAF) is upregulated in the fetoplacental trophoblast, which protects the fetus from maternal complement injury. DAF was found to be downregulated in the endometrium of patients with repeated implantation failure. Thus, we examined the molecular mechanisms of DAF expression regulation by ovarian steroid hormones in the mouse uterus. Immunofluorescence staining demonstrated its exclusive localisation in the apical region of the epithelium in the uterus. Oestrogen (E2) significantly induced Daf mRNA in a time-dependent manner. Progesterone (P4) did not have any significant effect on Daf expression; however, it negatively modulated E2-induced DAF expression and RU486 effectively interfered with the inhibitory action of P4 in the uterus. During early pregnancy DAF was higher on Day 1 of pregnancy, but significantly decreased from Day 3, which is consistent with its E2-dependent regulation. Interestingly, DAF expression seemed to be influenced by the implanting blastocyst on Day 5 and it was gradually increased during preimplantation embryo development with peak levels at blastocyst stages. We demonstrated that E2-dependent DAF expression is antagonised by P4–progesterone receptor signalling in the uterine epithelium. Spatiotemporal regulation of DAF in the uterus and preimplantation embryos suggest that DAF functions as an immune modulator for embryo implantation and early pregnancy in mice.
Money Matters: The Role of Yields and Profits in Agricultural Technology Adoption
Authors: Michler Jeffrey D. , Tjernström Emilia , Verkaart Simone , Mausch Kai
Published: June 2018

Despite the growing attention to technology adoption in the economics literature, knowledge gaps remain regarding why some valuable technologies are rapidly adopted, while others are not. This paper contributes to our understanding of agricultural technology adoption by showing that a focus on yield gains may, in some contexts, be misguided. We study a technology in Ethiopia that has no impact on yields, but that has nonetheless been widely adopted. Using three waves of panel data, we estimate a correlated random coefficient model and calculate the returns to improved chickpea in terms of yields, costs, and profits. We find that farmers’ comparative advantage does not play a significant role in their adoption decisions and hypothesize that this is due to the overall high economic returns to adoption, despite the limited yield impacts of the technology. Our results suggest economic measures of returns may be more relevant than increases in yields in explaining technology adoption decisions.
Chondrosarcoma of the Osseous Spine Treated by Surgery With or Without Radiotherapy
Authors: Chen Dong , Chen Chun-Hui , Zhang Li-Lian , Lin Zhong-Ke , Zheng Jing-Wei , Phan Kevin , Mobbs Ralph J. , Lin Yan , Ni Wen-Fei , Wang Xiang-Yang , Li Yan Michael , Wu Ai-Min
Published: June 2018

Study Design:

This was a longitudinal cohort study.

Objective:

The main objective of this study was to investigate the outcomes of surgery with or without radiotherapy during treatment of patients with chondrosarcoma of the osseous spine.

Summary of Background Data:

Chondrosarcoma is a primary spinal malignant tumor; chemotherapy and radiotherapy (RT) are generally unsuccessful, and thus, the main treatment of choice is complete en bloc resection. However, even with complete resection, these patients still have a significant rate of recurrence, morbidity, and mortality. Although there have been reports that the addition of RT to surgery may lead to increased survival and better cancer control, the evidence of the efficacy of RT remains controversial.

Materials and Methods:

Patients diagnosed with chondrosarcoma who are then treated by surgery alone or surgery+RT were identified and extracted from the SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) database (1973-2013). Propensity score matched (PSM) analysis was performed to balance patient characteristics between surgery alone and surgery+RT groups. Patients with a different grade and stage were stratified and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 778 patients with chondrosarcoma of the osseous spine treated by surgery alone or surgery+RT were extracted from the SEER database. Before PSM, the unadjusted Kaplan-Meier curve and bivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models showed that the surgery alone group had higher chondrosarcoma cancer–specific survival and overall survival than the surgery+RT group (both P<0.001), while the difference was attenuated after PSM. Stratified analysis found that RT was worse for low-grade chondrosarcoma patients and had a better trend for high-grade chondrosarcoma patients.

Conclusions:

The results of our present study suggest that low-grade chondrosarcoma of the osseous spine is resistant to RT, while high-grade chondrosarcoma patients had a better trend with RT.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Adoptive Transfer of Interleukin-21-stimulated Human CD8+ T Memory Stem Cells Efficiently Inhibits Tumor Growth
Authors: Chen Yingshi , Yu Fei , Jiang Yawen , Chen Jingliang , Wu Kang , Chen Xinxin , Lin Yingtong , Zhang Hui , Li Linghua , Zhang Yiwen
Published: June 2018

Memory stem T (TSCM) cells, a new subset of memory T cells with self-renewal and multipotent capacities, are considered as a promising candidates for adoptive cellular therapy. However, the low proportion of human TSCM cells in total CD8+ T cells limits their utility. Here, we aimed to induce human CD8+ TSCM cells by stimulating naive precursors with interleukin-21 (IL-21). We found that IL-21 promoted the generation of TSCM cells, described as CD45RA+CD45RO−CD62L+CCR7+CD122+CD95+ cells, with a higher efficiency than that observed with other common γ-chain cytokines. Upon adoptive transfer into an A375 melanoma mouse model, these lymphocytes mediated much stronger antitumor responses. Further mechanistic analysis revealed that IL-21 activated the Janus kinase signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathway by upregulating signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 phosphorylation and consequently promoting the expression of T-bet and suppressor of cytokine signaling 1, but decreasing the expression of eomesodermin and GATA binding protein 3. Our findings provide novel insights into the generation of human CD8+ TSCM cells and reveal a novel potential clinical application of IL-21.
Gastroschisis and Cumulative Stressor Exposures
Authors: Werler Martha M. , Guéry Esther , Waller Dorothy K. , Parker Samantha E.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Gastroschisis, a congenital defect of the abdominal wall, occurs disproportionately more in offspring of young mothers and has been increasing in prevalence over the past decades. A wide range of exposures have been reported in association with an increased gastroschisis risk, independent of mother’s age; many have also been correlated with stress responses.

Methods:

We explored cumulative exposures to such stressor exposures among 1,261 mothers of gastroschisis cases and 10,682 mothers of controls in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (1997–2011). We considered 16 exposures as stressors in the first trimester: fever, genitourinary infection, anti-herpetic medication use, injury, bronchodilator use, cigarette smoking, alcohol intake, illicit drug use, prescription opioid use, oral contraceptive use, interpregnancy interval < 12 months, residential move, aspirin use, ibuprofen use, venlafaxine use, and paroxetine use.

Results:

Mothers of cases reported more stressor exposures than controls. For 1, 2, 3, and ≥ 4 stressor exposures compared with none, the age-adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) were 1.3 (1.1, 1.6), 1.7 (1.4, 2.1), 2.5 (2.0, 3.1), and 3.6 (2.9, 4.4), respectively. When we weighted cumulative stress scores according to the magnitude of stressor-specific odds ratios, similar associations were observed. Cumulative stressor exposure did not account for the strong inverse association between age and gastroschisis risk.

Conclusions:

These findings show that gastroschisis risk appears to increase with accumulation of widely different types of exposures, consistent with the hypothesis that stress-induced inflammation might play an etiologic role.
Return-to-Learn Accommodations and Concussion Perceptions Among Indiana High School Principals
Authors: Janson Isaac A. , Nittoli Vincent , White Derek , Tekulve Kristyn J.
Published: June 2018

Objective:

Care after concussion is important for all patients, although especially critical in children and adolescents because of continued rapid brain growth and maturation. Postconcussion symptoms often lead to impaired school performance. Conflicting data regarding best return-to-learn practices make it difficult for school administrators to develop policies to best accommodate concussed students. We sought to assess high school principals' knowledge of concussion, the personnel responsible for implementing accommodations, and the overall willingness to enact recommended academic accommodations.

Methods:

In our cross-sectional study, we surveyed 410 Indiana high school principals (157 responded). Assistant principals were excluded.

Results:

One-third of the respondents received academic accommodations training for concussed students and more than 80% were somewhat or very comfortable with academic management. Greater than 90% were willing to provide accommodations as long as necessary. However, nearly 40% of responding principals were unlikely or unwilling to implement accommodations for standardized testing. National and state data suggest the median Indiana high school should expect 30 and more concussions per year; more than 90% of principals estimated that fewer than 30 concussions occurred each year at their school.

Conclusions:

The underestimation of concussion frequency highlights an opportunity for further education of high school principals to ensure all concussed students receive appropriate return-to-learn accommodations.
Relationship Between Hispanic Nativity, Residential Environment, and Productive Activity Among Individuals With Traumatic Brain Injury: A TBI Model Systems Study
Authors: Lequerica Anthony H. , Botticello Amanda , O'Neill John , Lengenfelder Jean , Krch Denise , Chiaravalloti Nancy D. , Sander Angelle M. , Bushnik Tamara , Ketchum Jessica M. , Hammond Flora M. , Dams-O'Connor Kristen , Felix Elizabeth , Johnson-Greene Doug
Published: June 2018

Objective:

To examine the influence of nativity and residential characteristics on productive activity among Hispanics at 1 year after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Setting:

Acute rehabilitation facilities and community follow-up.

Participants:

A total of 706 Hispanic individuals in the TBI Model Systems National Database.

Design:

Secondary data analysis from a multicenter longitudinal cohort study.

Main Measures:

Nativity (foreign born or US native), productive activity derived from interview questions regarding employment status, and other demographic information. Census data were extracted by zip code to represent residential characteristics of aggregate household income and proportion of foreign language speakers (FLS).

Results:

Among foreign-born individuals with TBI, those living in an area with a higher proportion of FLS were 2.8 times more likely to be productive than those living in areas with a lower proportion of FLS. Among individuals living in an area with a lower proportion of FLS, US-born Hispanics were 2.7 times more likely to be productive compared with Hispanic immigrants.

Conclusion:

The relationship between nativity and productive activity at 1 year post-TBI was moderated by the residential proportion of FLS. Findings underscore the importance of considering environmental factors when designing vocational rehabilitation interventions for Hispanics after TBI.
Predictors of Employment Status in Male and Female Post-9/11 Veterans Evaluated for Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Amara Jomana H. , Stolzmann Kelly L. , Iverson Katherine M. , Pogoda Terri K.
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

The goal of this study was to investigate predictors of employment status in male and female post-9/11 Veterans evaluated for traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the Veterans Health Administration. Prior research suggests there are gender differences in psychosocial characteristics among this cohort.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional analysis of post-9/11 Veterans who completed a TBI evaluation between July 2009 and September 2013.

Results:

Women had lower prevalence of deployment-related TBI (65.5%) compared with men (75.3%), but the percentages of those unemployed across the TBI diagnostic categories were similar for men (38%) and women (39%). Adjusted log-binomial regression found that unemployment was significantly associated with age, education, marital status, moderate/severe TBI, suspected posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and drug abuse/dependence, and neurobehavioral symptom severity for men, whereas for women only more severe affective and cognitive symptoms were associated with unemployment.

Conclusions:

Although the unemployment rate was similar across gender, there was a clearer pattern of demographic and health factors, including TBI severity, that was significantly associated with employment status in men. There may be other factors contributing to the female Veteran unemployment rate, underscoring the need to investigate unique contributors to unemployment, as well as how treatment and employment services can be expanded and tailored for post-9/11 Veterans.
INADVERTENT INTRAOCULAR SURGERY IN CHILDREN WITH UNSUSPECTED RETINOBLASTOMA
Authors: Kaliki Swathi , Taneja Shikha , Palkonda Vijay A. R.
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

To study the clinical presentation and treatment outcome of patients who underwent inadvertent intraocular surgery before the diagnosis of retinoblastoma.

Design:

Retrospective study of 14 patients who had undergone an inadvertent intraocular surgery before the diagnosis of retinoblastoma.

Results:

The mean age at presentation to the ocular oncology clinic was 69 months. The most common initial misdiagnosis was endophthalmitis (n = 4). The most common inadvertent intraocular surgeries were pars plana vitrectomy (n = 6) with/without lensectomy and evisceration with/without previous pars plana vitrectomy (n = 5). The mean interval between intraocular procedure and initiation of treatment for retinoblastoma was 7 months. At presentation in the oncology clinic, the tumor was intraocular (n = 3), with extrascleral tumor extension (n = 11), and/or optic nerve tumor extension (n = 5). All patients were started on multimodal treatment including 12 cycles of high-dose systemic chemotherapy, enucleation or orbital exenteration, and orbital external beam radiotherapy. Over a mean follow-up period of 27 months, 8 (57%) patients died because of progressive disease despite initiation of treatment.

Conclusion:

Misdiagnosis and inadvertent surgical intervention in cases of retinoblastoma in combination with delayed initiation of appropriate treatment is associated with poor prognosis. High index of suspicion for retinoblastoma is needed to avoid misdiagnosis and mismanagement.
Vision-Related Quality of Life in Iranian Patients With Keratoconus: National Eye Institute Vision Function Questionnaire-25
Authors: Mahdaviazad Hamideh , Bamdad Shahram , Roustaei Narges , Mohaghegh Sahar
Published: June 2018

Background:

Use of patient-reported outcomes to evaluate the impact of ocular conditions on quality of life (QoL) is rising. Hence, the aims of this study were to determine the impact of keratoconus on QoL, and assess the National Eye Institute of the United States Vision Function Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ) performance in an Iranian population.

Methods:

From November 2016 to June 2017, patients with keratoconus definitive diagnosis for more than one year who were being routinely followed at a cornea clinic were recruited. The NEI-VFQ-25 was administered during a face-to-face interview. Ocular examinations comprised best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was logged monocularly and binocularly, anterior segment biomicroscopy, refraction, and corneal topography. Keratoconus severity was graded based on steep keratometric (K) reading values. A group of 30 age- and sex-matched subjects with other ocular diseases (except keratoconus) were selected randomly from the cornea clinic. P<0.05 was considered as significant.

Results:

The mean age of participants was 28.7±7.6 years. The lowest NEI-VFQ subscale scores were related to ocular pain, general vision, mental health, and role difficulty. Almost all NEI-VFQ scores in patients were statistically significant less than mean score of the control group. Composite and all subscales NEI-VFQ scores were lower significantly among patients with higher disease duration (≥5 years). Among clinical data, patients with BCVA ≥0.5 in the better eye had significantly lower NEI-VFQ composite score. Severe keratoconus patients (steep K reading ≥52) had lower NEI-VFQ scores in mental health and dependency subscales (P<0.05). The overall and subscales Cronbach α was above 0.7.

Conclusion:

Iranian patients with keratoconus had physical, emotional, and social impairment in QoL. The NEI-VFQ-25 might be applicable in further studies.
Conjunctival Squamous Neoplasia: Staging and Initial Treatment
Authors: Bellerive Claudine , Berry Jesse L. , Polski Ashley , Singh Arun D.
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

To evaluate the clinical relevance of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) classification in the initial management of squamous neoplasia of the conjunctiva.

Methods:

This retrospective study enrolled 95 histopathologically proven cases of treatment-naive conjunctival squamous neoplasia. Tumors were classified into 4 histological groups: conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) with mild dysplasia (grade 1/3), moderate dysplasia (grade 2/3), severe dysplasia (grade 3/3 or carcinoma in situ), and invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Clinical findings such as tumor location, largest basal diameter, growth pattern, and adjacent structures involved were recorded.

Results:

CIN was observed in 74 cases (78%), and SCC was noted in 21 cases (22%). Based on the AJCC classification, all the 74 cases of CIN were classified as Tis (tumor in situ). Among the invasive SCC, there were 3 T1 tumors, 2 T2 tumors, and 16 T3 tumors. Complete excision with or without adjuvant therapy was selected as initial treatment in 80% of cases (76/95). Two cases of SCC with scleral invasion were treated using brachytherapy.

Conclusions:

The AJCC stage does not correlate with the initial treatment of CIN. The AJCC T3 category should be reviewed to differentiate diffuse SCCs with broad surface extension from tumors with deep scleral invasion.
Sensory sensitivity and symptom severity represent unique dimensions of chronic pain: a MAPP Research Network study
Authors: Schrepf Andrew , Williams David A. , Gallop Robert , Naliboff Bruce D. , Basu Neil , Kaplan Chelsea , Harper Daniel E. , Landis J. Richard , Clemens J. Quentin , Strachan Eric , Griffith James W. , Afari Niloofar , Hassett Afton , Pontari Michel A. , Clauw Daniel J. , Harte Steven E. ,   for the MAPP Research Network
Published: June 2018

Chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs) are characterized by aberrant central nervous system processing of pain. This “centralized pain” phenotype has been described using a large and diverse set of symptom domains, including the spatial distribution of pain, pain intensity, fatigue, mood imbalances, cognitive dysfunction, altered somatic sensations, and hypersensitivity to external stimuli. Here, we used 3 cohorts, including patients with urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome, a mixed pain cohort with other COPCs, and healthy individuals (total n = 1039) from the Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Research Network to explore the factor structure of symptoms of centralized pain. Using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, we identified 2 general factors in all 3 cohorts, one characterized by a broad increased sensitivity to internal somatic sensations,environmental stimuli, and diffuse pain, termed Generalized Sensory Sensitivity, and one characterized by constitutional symptoms—Sleep, Pain, Affect, Cognition, Energy (SPACE). Longitudinal analyses in the urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome cohort found the same 2-factor structure at month 6 and 1 year, suggesting that the 2-factor structure is reproducible over time. In secondary analyses, we found that Generalized Sensory Sensitivity particularly is associated with the presence of comorbid COPCs, whereas SPACE shows modest associations with measures of disability and urinary symptoms. These factors may represent an important and distinct continuum of symptoms that are indicative of the centralized pain phenotype at high levels. Future research of COPCs should accommodate the measurement of each factor.
Use of an Extracorporeal Centrifugal Pump with the Berlin Cannulas
Authors: Chen Peter C. , Zea-Vera Rodrigo , Burgman Cole , McKenzie E. Dean , Elias Barbara , Adachi Iki
Published: June 2018

The Berlin EXCOR ventricular assist device has become a standard treatment in pediatric bridge to transplantation. Despite its increased use in pediatric heart failure, the patient population supported with this technology continues to suffer from hematologic issues such as postoperative hemorrhage and neurologic dysfunction secondary to thrombotic events. Finding a balance between hemorrhagic and thrombotic risks in the acute postoperative period poses a significant challenge. In this report, we describe our approach using a temporary centrifugal pump connected to cannulas designed for the Berlin EXCOR ventricular assist device. We believe that the interim use of an extracorporeal centrifugal pump allows time for hemodynamic stability, limits the hemorrhagic risks, and provides relevant hemodynamic information before conversion to the Berlin EXCOR.
Hematologic Malignancies Associated With Mediastinal Germ Cell Tumors: 10 Years’ Experience at Thailand’s National Pediatric Tertiary Referral Center
Authors: Sowithayasakul Panjarat , Sinlapamongkolkul Phakatip , Treetipsatit Jitsupa , Vathana Nassawee , Narkbunnam Nattee , Sanpakit Kleebsabai , Buaboonnam Jassada
Published: June 2018

Mediastinal germ cell tumor (MGCT), which accounts for 1% to 3% of extragonadal germ cell tumors, has unique manifestations; it is associated with several types of hematologic malignancy, particularly myeloid neoplasm. The aim of this study was to report the 10-year incidence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of MGCT at Thailand’s national pediatric tertiary referral center. This retrospective study included patients diagnosed with MGCT at the Department of Pediatrics, Siriraj Hospital during 2005 to 2014. Eight patients (all male) were diagnosed with MGCT. Five of 8 patients were found to have hematologic abnormalities. Three patients were diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (one patient with M1, another having M7, and the other with M0). Another patient had mixed MGCT with mediastinal myeloid sarcoma (MMS). The other patient had malignancy-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis syndrome (M-HLH). Isochromosome 12p was detected in 3 patients (AML [2], mixed MGCT/MMS [1]). Four of 5 patients with hematologic abnormalities died of hematologic abnormalities or treatment complication (AML [3], M-HLH [1]). One patient with mixed MGCT/MMS survived with chemotherapy. All patients with AML and MMS were nonseminomatous MGCT and the onset of myeloid malignancies were within 1 year after the diagnosis of MGCT. Associated hematologic malignancies should be suspected in MGCT with abnormal blood count or hematologic symptoms. Isochromosome 12p was the most common cytogenetic finding in MGCT-associated myeloid malignancies patients. Those with nonseminomatous MGCT should have their blood count carefully monitored especially during the first year after the diagnosis of MGCT. Better treatment alternatives for MGCT with associated hematologic malignancies are warranted to ameliorate adverse outcomes.
Prenatal Bisphenol A Exposure in Mice Induces Multi-tissue Multi-omics Disruptions Linking to Cardiometabolic Disorders
Authors: Shu Le , Meng Qingying , Tsai Brandon , Diamante Graciel , Chen Yen-Wei , Mikhail Andrew , Luk Helen , Ritz Beate , Allard Patrick , Yang Xia
Published: June 2018

The health impacts of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) remain debated and their tissue and molecular targets are poorly understood. Here, we leveraged systems biology approaches to assess the target tissues, molecular pathways, and gene regulatory networks associated with prenatal exposure to the model EDC Bisphenol A (BPA). Prenatal BPA exposure led to scores of transcriptomic and methylomic alterations in the adipose, hypothalamus, and liver tissues in mouse offspring, with cross-tissue perturbations in lipid metabolism as well as tissue-specific alterations in histone subunits, glucose metabolism and extracellular matrix. Network modeling prioritized main molecular targets of BPA, includingPparg, Hnf4a, Esr1, Srebf1, andFasn. Lastly, integrative analyses identified the association of BPA molecular signatures with cardiometabolic phenotypes in mouse and human. Our multi-tissue, multi-omics investigation provides strong evidence that BPA perturbs diverse molecular networks in central and peripheral tissues, and offers insights into the molecular targets that link BPA to human cardiometabolic disorders.
Pericarp Pigmentation Correlates with Hormones and Intensifies with Continuation of Bud Sport Generations from ‘Red Delicious’
Authors: Li Wen-Fang , Mao Juan , Yang Shi-Jin , Guo Zhi-Gang , Ma Zong-Huan , Dawuda Mohammed Mujitaba , Zuo Cun-Wu , Chu Ming-Yu , Chen Bai-Hong
Published: June 2018

Bud sport mutants of apple (Malus domesticaBorkh.) trees with a highly blushed colouring pattern are mainly caused by the accumulation of anthocyanins in the pericarp. Hormones are important factors modulating anthocyanin accumulation. However, a good understanding of the interplay between hormones and anthocyanin synthesis in apples, especially in mutants at the molecular level, remains elusive. Here, physiological and comparative transcriptome approaches were used to reveal the molecular basis of pericarp pigmentation in ‘Red Delicious’ and its mutants, including ‘Starking Red’, ‘Starkrimson’, ‘Campbell Redchief’ and ‘Vallee spur’, which were designated G0 to G4, respectively. Pericarp pigmentation gradually proliferated from G0 to G4. The anthocyanin content was higher in the mutants than in ‘Red Delicious’. The activation of early phenylpropanoid biosynthesis genes, includingASP3,PAL,4CL,PER,CHS,CYP98AandF3’H, was responsible for anthocyanin accumulation in mutants. In addition, IAA and ABA had a positive regulatory effect on the synthesis of anthocyanins, while GA had the reverse effect. The down-regulation ofAACT1,HMGS,HMGR,MVK,MVD2,IDI1andFPPS2involved in terpenoid biosynthesis influences anthocyanin accumulation by positively regulating transcripts ofAUX1andSAURthat contribute to the synthesis of IAA,GID2to GA,PP2CandSnRK2to ABA. Furthermore, MYB and bHLH members, which are highly correlated (r=0.882–0.980) with anthocyanin content, modulated anthocyanin accumulation by regulating the transcription of structural genes, includingCHSandF3’H, involved in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway.
Exploration of cell development pathways through high dimensional single cell analysis in trajectory space
Authors: Dermadi Denis , Bscheider Michael , Bjegovic Kristina , Lazarus Nicole H. , Szade Agata , Hadeiba Husein , Butcher Eugene C.
Published: June 2018

High-dimensional single cell profiling coupled with computational modeling is emerging as a powerful means to elucidate developmental sequences and define genetic programs directing cell lineages. Here we introduce tSpace, an algorithm based on the concept of “trajectory space”, in which cells are defined by their distance along nearest neighbor pathways to every other cell in a population. tSpace outputs a dense matrix of cell-to-cell distances that quantitatively reflect the extent of phenotypic change along developmental paths (developmental distances). Graphical mapping of cells in trajectory space allows unsupervised reconstruction and straightforward exploration of complex developmental sequences. tSpace is robust, scalable, and implements a global approach that attempts to preserve both local and distant relationships in developmental pathways. Applied to high dimensional flow and mass cytometry data, the method faithfully reconstructs known pathways of thymic T cell development and provides novel insights into regulation of tonsillar B cell development and trafficking. Applied to single cell transcriptomic data, the method unfolds complex developmental sequences, recapitulates pathways leading from intestinal stem cells to specialized epithelial phenotypes more faithfully than existing algorithms, and reveals genetic programs that correlate with fate decisions. tSpace profiling of complex populations in high-dimensional trajectory space is well suited for hypothesis generation in developing cell systems.
Molecular mechanisms in fungal fatty acid synthase (FAS) assembly
Authors: Fischer Manuel , Mulinacci Barbara , Joppe Mirko , Vollrath Ronnald , Konstantinidis Kosta , Kötter Peter , Ciccarelli Luciano , Vonck Janet , Oesterhelt Dieter , Grininger Martin
Published: June 2018

The fungal fatty acid synthase (fFAS) multienzyme is a barrel-shaped 2.6 MDa complex comprising six times eight catalytic domains. Upon barrel-formation, up to several hundred kDa large polypeptides intertwine to bury about 170,000 Å2of protein surface. Functional, regulatory and structural data as well as evolutionary aspects of fFAS have been elucidated during the last decades. Notwithstanding a profound knowledge of this protein family, the biogenesis of the elaborate structure remained elusive. Remarkably, experimental data have recently demonstrated that fFAS self-assembles without the assistance of specific factors. Considering the infinitesimal probability that the barrel-shaped complex forms simply by domains approaching in the correct orientation, we were interested in understanding the sequence of events that have to orchestrate fFAS assembly. Here, we show that fFAS attains its quaternary structure along a pathway of successive domain-domain interactions, which is strongly related to the evolutionary development of this protein family. The knowledge on fFAS assembly may pave the way towards antifungal therapy, and further develops fFAS as biofactory in technological applications.