bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulator-based dielectrophoresis-assisted separation of insulin secretory vesicles
Authors: Barekatain Mahta , Liu Yameng , Archambeau Ashley , Cherezov Vadim , Fraser Scott , White Kate L , Hayes Mark A
Published: August 2024

Organelle heterogeneity and inter-organelle contacts within a single cell contribute to the limited sensitivity of current organelle separation techniques, thus hindering organelle subpopulation characterization. Here, we use direct current insulator-based dielectrophoresis (DC-iDEP) as an unbiased separation method and demonstrate its capability by identifying distinct distribution patterns of insulin vesicles from INS-1E insulinoma cells. A multiple voltage DC-iDEP strategy with increased range and sensitivity has been applied, and a differentiation factor (ratio of electrokinetic to dielectrophoretic mobility) has been used to characterize features of insulin vesicle distribution patterns. We observed a significant difference in the distribution pattern of insulin vesicles isolated from glucose-stimulated cells relative to unstimulated cells, in accordance with maturation of vesicles upon glucose stimulation. We interpret the difference in distribution pattern to be indicative of high-resolution separation of vesicle subpopulations. DC-iDEP provides a path for future characterization of subtle biochemical differences of organelle subpopulations within any biological system.
Aberrant auditory prediction patterns robustly characterize tinnitus
Authors: Reisinger Lisa , Demarchi Gianpaolo , Obleser Jonas , Sedley William , Partyka Marta , Schubert Juliane , Gehmacher Quirin , Roesch Sebastian , Suess Nina , Trinka Eugen , Schlee Winfried , Weisz Nathan
Published: August 2024

Phantom perceptions like tinnitus occur without any identifiable environmental or bodily source. The mechanisms and key drivers behind tinnitus are poorly understood. The dominant framework, suggesting that tinnitus results from neural hyperactivity in the auditory pathway following hearing damage, has been difficult to investigate in humans and has reached explanatory limits. As a result, researchers have tried to explain perceptual and potential neural aberrations in tinnitus within a more parsimonious predictive-coding framework. In two independent magnetoencephalography studies, participants passively listened to sequences of pure tones with varying levels of regularity (i.e. predictability) ranging from random to ordered. Aside from being a replication of the first study, the pre-registered second study, including 80 participants, ensured rigorous matching of hearing status, as well as age, sex, and hearing loss, between individuals with and without tinnitus. Despite some changes in the details of the paradigm, both studies equivalently reveal a group difference in neural representation, based on multivariate pattern analysis, of upcoming stimuli before their onset. These data strongly suggest that individuals with tinnitus engage anticipatory auditory predictions differently to controls. While the observation of different predictive processes is robust and replicable, the precise neurocognitive mechanism underlying it calls for further, ideally longitudinal, studies to establish its role as a potential contributor to, and/or consequence of, tinnitus.
Construção de uma proposta de instrumento para acompanhamento da atratividade dos programas prioritários no contexto dos investimentos em PD&I da lei de informática da Zona Franca de Manaus
Authors: Nascimento Fraciele da Silva , Santos Rosa Maria Nascimento dos , Oliveira Raimundo Correa de , Kieling Antônio Claudio
Published: August 2024

Nos últimos trinta anos, a Lei de Informática da Zona Franca de Manaus (ZFM) tem sido um poderoso instrumento de política pública para o fomento de Pesquisa, Desenvolvimento e Inovação (PD&I) na Amazônia Ocidental e no Amapá. No entanto, os resultados dessa lei frequentemente são questionados devido à ausência de instrumentos eficazes que comprovem os seus impactos. Propõe-se, portanto, neste artigo, apresentar um método de monitoramento que auxilie no gerenciamento das metas pactuadas por cada programa prioritário, analisando os objetivos desses programas e destacando suas contribuições para a inovação e o crescimento regional. Tendo em vista tal proposta, foram consideradas as pesquisas documentais e legais para amparar a iniciativa, e o método foi aplicado em (2) dois programas prioritários. Os resultados obtidos permitiram a constituição de uma metodologia de índice que auxiliará na mensuração da atratividade dos programas prioritários para o fomento da PD&I na Amazônia Ocidental e no Amapá.
Percepção dos profissionais da saúde sobre a atenção primária aos idosos nas unidades básicas de saúde no munícipio de Campo Mourão-PR
Authors: Nogueira Roney Alan , Felipe Daniele Fernanda
Published: August 2024

[Introdução] Existe a necessidade da construção de uma assistência de qualidade para o atendimento da pessoa idosa focando na prevenção e na promoção da saúde. [Objetivo] Avaliar o conhecimento dos profissionais da saúde referente à execução de atividades voltadas à pessoa idosa nas Unidades Básicas de Saúde do município de Campo Mourão-PR. [Metodologia] Tratou-se de um estudo de abordagem quantitativa de corte transversal analítico, onde foram avaliados os serviços voltados à saúde dos idosos nas 15 Unidades Básicas de Saúde do município de Campo Mourão-PR. Foi aplicado um questionário sobre Atenção à Saúde dos Idosos junto a 76 profissionais da saúde. [Resultados] Desse modo, observou-se que os principais profissionais envolvidos no cuidado ao idoso dentro da atenção primária à saúde, são os enfermeiros e médicos geral e da família. Os principais instrumentos que permitem definir novas estratégias nas UBS, como o caderno de saúde não são atualizados, isso pode interferir no acesso do idoso aos serviços ofertados ou até mesmo na continuidade de seus tratamentos. Verificou-se ainda que existe uma procura das UBS por um público fora de sua área de cobertura. [Conclusão] É importante que sejam elaboradas novas estratégias e/ou ferramentas que contemplem a atuação de todos os profissionais de saúde da UBS, garantindo assim, acesso pleno e integral do idoso aos serviços de saúde de cada unidade. O estudo mostrou que existem ferramentas que propiciam a construção de meios que ofertem serviços de saúde com qualidade para a melhoria da saúde do idoso no município de Campo Mourão-PR.
Tratamento da Chikungunya em pacientes adultos: revisão sistemática
Authors: Coutinho Fabrícia Martins , Martins Leticia Neves , Oliveira Márcia Farsura de
Published: August 2024

Introdução: A Chikungunya é uma arbovirose ocasionada pelo vírus de mesmo nome, o qual é transmitido aos seres humanos pelos mosquitos Aedes aegypti, com evolução aguda, subaguda a crônica, que pode ocasionar desde sintomas leves a graves e, por isso, necessita de medidas terapêuticas corretas e eficazes. Objetivo: Revisar na literatura científica o tratamento da Chikungunya em pacientes adultos. Método: Estudo do tipo revisão sistemática de literatura nas bases de dados Lilacs e PubMed. A busca resultou em um total de 83 artigos, após aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade, tendo 14 artigos inclusos. Resultados e discussão: A revisão sistemática destacou diversas abordagens terapêuticas para a infecção por Chikungunya, incluindo tratamentos medicamentosos e não medicamentosos. Os estudos abordaram desde analgésicos e opioides para o manejo da dor aguda até corticoterapia e antimaláricos para fases subagudas e crônicas. Métodos paliativos, como estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua (tDCS) e exercícios físicos, mostraram eficácia na redução da dor crônica e melhora da função física. Conclusão: Conclui-se que são necessárias diretrizes claras para o manejo do Chikungunya, com tratamentos multidisciplinares e personalizados. Avaliações contínuas e práticas complementares são essenciais para melhorar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes. O uso da Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde (CIF) padroniza a descrição da saúde, facilitando medidas terapêuticas eficazes. Pesquisa contínua e atualização das práticas clínicas são fundamentais para enfrentar os desafios do Chikungunya.
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C in People with Haemophilia at a Tertiary Care Centre, Assam, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Dutta Anupam , Borboruah Luish , Gogoi Papori
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Prior to the advent of recombinant factor products, the treatment of haemophilia was mainly based on the administration of direct blood products like whole blood, Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP), and cryoprecipitates. This led to a high incidence of transfusion-transmitted infections like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) . Aim: To study the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C in people with haemophilia at Assam Medical College. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Assam Medical College, Dibrugarh, Assam on 73 haemophilia patients in the month of November 2023. Ethical clearance and informed consent were obtained. Demographic details and treatment-related history were taken, and blood samples were analysed to assess the seroprevalence of Australian antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV. The prevalence of Hepatitis B and C was studied with respect to the severity of the disease and treatment received. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0, and the level of significance was set at (p<0.05). Results: Out of the 73 patients included in the study, 62 participants (84.9%) had haemophilia A, while rest 11 (15.1%) had haemophilia B. The participants were distributed based on the severity of the disease into mild, moderate, and severe categories. Out of the 73 patients, 14 patients (19.2%), 20 patients (27.4%), and 39 patients (53.4%) belonged to the mild, moderate, and severe categories, respectively. Most of the patients belonged to the age of less than 30 years and highest number of patients in the age group of 11-20 years (35.7%). The overall positivity for Hepatitis B and C among all haemophilia patients was 1.4% and 5.5%, respectively. The prevalence of both Hepatitis B and C was higher in patients who had the severe form of haemophilia. Out of the 35 patients who received only recombinant factors, only one showed seropositivity for anti-HCV, whereas three patients were detected to be anti-HCV positive and one patient to be HBsAg positive among 38 patients who received both factors and FFP/ cryoprecipitates in their lifetime. Conclusion: Haemophilia patients are at a higher risk of developing transfusion-transmitted infections, which can cause multiple life-threatening complications. These complications can be easily prevented by early screening and early initiation of treatment. People with the severe form of the disease, especially those with a history of receiving direct blood products, are more prone to developing these infections. However, with the advent of recombinant factors, the incidence has come down.
Role of Radiotherapy Technologists in Clinical Radiation Therapy Practices: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Jules Manishimwe , Luharia Anurag , Dahake Shweta
Published: August 2024

Radiation therapists, also known as radiotherapy technologists, are allied health professionals who specialise in providing high doses of radiation to patients with malignant growths. High-energy radiation damages cells’ genetic material {Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)}, stopping them from replicating and multiplying further. Radiation can be used to treat cancer or as a highly effective palliative therapy to alleviate cancer-related pain in patients. Radiation therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Because radiation harms both healthy tissues and malignant cells, the primary objective of radiation therapy is to optimise radiation exposure to abnormal cancer cells while avoiding irradiation of healthy tissues adjacent to or in the path of radiation. Remarkable precision is required to provide ionising radiation to patients and target specific cells for consistent, accurate, and successful radiation treatment. A team consisting of radiation oncologists, medical physicists, radiation therapists, medical dosimetrists, and nurses work together to achieve this goal. Radiation therapists are responsible for delivering radiation treatment, as well as maintaining and testing the equipment used to monitor and administer the treatment. The radiation therapist administers the patient’s treatment dose according to the prescription plan made by the radiation oncologists and medical physicists. Radiation therapists must communicate with patients and their families, respond to their inquiries, and clarify the radiation treatment plan. They must also track the patient’s progress and report any changes to their seniors. Radiation therapists must maintain high levels of precision while administering therapy, think critically, and exercise autonomous, professional, and ethical judgment in all aspects of their work. The field of radiotherapy is continuously evolving with new advancements in technology and treatment delivery techniques that maximise patient satisfaction and treatment delivery efficacy. Radiation therapists undergo continuing education and training to broaden their knowledge of the field and stay current with standard practice. This review addresses the critical role of radiation therapists in clinical radiation therapy practices. It highlights their significance in delivering safe and effective treatment to radiotherapy patients. The review covers various aspects, including the responsibilities of technologists in treatment planning, equipment operation, patient care and safety, quality assurance, and research. This present review provides a comprehensive understanding of the importance of well-trained and skilled radiation therapists in ensuring the success of radiation therapy treatments.
Comparative Analysis of Peak Inspiratory Flow Rate at Discharge and Three-month Follow-up in Severe Acute Exacerbation of COPD Patients using Metered Dose Inhalers versus Dry Powder Inhalers: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Fernandes Lalita , Siva Manu , Lawande Durga
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Patients discharged following hospitalisation for Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (AECOPD) are prescribed Metered Dose Inhalers (MDI), Dry Powder Inhalers (DPI), or nebulisers. Drug dispersion from the inhaler and deposition in the lung depends on Peak Inspiratory Flow Rate (PIFR) among other factors. A low PIFR results in suboptimal drug delivery and is a risk factor for readmission. Aim: To estimate PIFR at discharge following AECOPD, assess the type of inhalers prescribed at discharge, and estimate the mean change in PIFR at three months follow-up in patients using MDI and DPI. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, Goa Medical College, Goa, India on 138 patients over 15 months from November 2018 to February 2020. A sample size of 138 was calculated, and the study duration was 15 months. Patients admitted with AECOPD were enrolled in the study after obtaining informed consent. At discharge, baseline characteristics and co-morbidities were recorded, and PIFR was measured using an in-check dial peak inspiratory flow meter without resistance. Inhalers prescribed by the treating physician were verified and checked for errors. PIFR was measured at three months of follow-up. Optimal PIFR was defined as PIFR of ≥60 L/min. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Science Programs (SPSS) version 24.0 (IBM Corp, SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL). A paired t-test assessed the change in PIFR at discharge and three months follow-up, and Pearson’s correlation test was used to assess the correlation between continuous variables. Results: Total 138 were enrolled with a mean age of 69.8±7.5 years, 87 (63%) were males. The mean PIFR at discharge was 58.9±24.7 L/min. 85 (61.6%) had suboptimal PIFR and were older {71.9±7.8 versus 66.3±5.6, p-value=0.01}. A total of 59 (69.4%) with suboptimal PIFR received MDI. At three months, the suboptimal PIFR group receiving MDI showed a mean change in PIFR of 18.6±7.7, p-value<0.001 while with DPI mean change was -3.8±6.3, p-value=0.005. Conclusion: 61.6% had suboptimal PIFR at discharge following hospitalisation with AECOPD. Patients with suboptimal PIFR receiving MDI showed improvement in PIFR at three months, while those with suboptimal PIFR using DPI showed significant deterioration. Identifying patients with suboptimal PIFR will aid appropriate prescription of inhaler devices.
Effects of Subarachnoid Block vs General Anaesthesia on Intraoperative Blood Glucose Levels in Non Diabetic Patients undergoing Elective Surgeries: A Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Ganar Bharati N , Nandini MG , Kumar S Puneeth , Vijyeta Raghvi
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The inhibition of the pituitary gland, an increase in the production of catabolic hormones, and the stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system culminate in surgical stress. These factors result in elevated hepatic glycogenesis and gluconeogenesis, decreased skeletal muscle glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis, and hyperglycaemia. Aim: To examine the effects of Subarachnoid Block (SAB) and General Anaesthesia (GA) on perioperative Capillary Blood Glucose (CBG) levels in individuals undergoing surgery lasting 1-3 hours. Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study included 100 non diabetic patients undergoing surgery of 1-3 hours duration with 50 patients in each group (GA and SAB). CBG was checked 30 minutes before the administration of anaesthesia, 30 and 60 minutes after the induction of anaesthesia, and 30 minutes after shifting to the Post Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) in both the GA and SAB groups. Differences in participant characteristics, such as age and CBG levels in the two groups (SAB and GA), were examined using the two-tailed Independent samples t-test and the Chi-square/ Fisher’s exact test. Results: The mean CBG levels measured 30 minutes before anaesthesia in the GA group were 105.50±21.13 mg/dL, while in the SAB group they were 99.67±19.04 mg/dL, with a p-value of 0.330. However, CBG levels measured 30 minutes after anaesthesia in the GA group were 125.69±22.95 mg/dL, compared to 104.67±20.94 mg/dL in the SAB group, with a p-value of 0.001. At 60 minutes after anaesthesia, CBG levels in the GA group were 152.41±28.97 mg/dL, while in the SAB group they were 99.65±22.69 mg/dL, with a p-value of 0.003. Finally, 30 minutes after shifting to PACU, CBG levels in the GA group were 147.49±27.20 mg/dL, compared to 92.86±24.35 mg/dL in the SAB group, with a p-value of 0.002. Conclusion: CBG levels significantly increased in individuals receiving GA for surgery. This indicates that the hormonal stress response is greater during GA compared to SAB.
A Case Report of Two Malignancies in Breast with Short Review of Literature: Phyllodes and Ductal Type
Authors: Harshini V , Phansalkar Manjiri , Varghese Renu Gâ€™Boy , Kumar Nirmal , Phansalkar Dilip
Published: August 2024

A 54-year-old female presented with a recurrent mass in the right breast for eight months, associated with pain and discolouration of the skin for two weeks. Past history revealed a wide local excision of a tumour in the same breast 10 months ago, which was reported as a benign phyllodes tumour. Local examination revealed a bosselated mass of size 20×20×10 cm occupying all four quadrants of the right breast, along with another firm lump of size 3×3 cm in the lower inner quadrant. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the breast showed two separate lumps: the large lump involved all four quadrants of the right breast and was suggestive of malignant transformation of a recurrent phyllodes tumour-BIRADS V (Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System), and another smaller lump was noted in the lower inner quadrant. A Tru-cut biopsy of the larger lesion was reported as a possibility of a phyllodes tumour with mild nuclear atypia. The total mastectomy specimen showed both solid and cystic areas with necrotic material, haemorrhagic fluid, and blood clots in the larger lump. A separate lump from the lower inner quadrant of the ipsilateral breast showed a firm, solid lesion. Microscopic examination of both lesions revealed the simultaneous presentation of a malignant phyllodes tumour with chondrosarcomatous differentiation and infiltrating ductal carcinoma. This case highlights the unpredictable co-existence of two separate malignant lumps in the ipsilateral breast, which is an extremely rare event.
Improving Photocatalytic Efficiency with Titanium Dioxide Quantum Dots
Authors: Dao Nam Duy , Lam Tho Thi , Van Anh Dieu , Vu Ha Thi Thu , Trung Hai Huynh
Published: August 2024

Titanium dioxide quantum dots (TiO2-QDs), synthesized using a microwave-assisted method, represent a significant advancement in photocatalysis, particularly in the treatment of environmental pollutants. This study focuses on TiO2-QDs synthesized at 200°C for a duration of 5 minutes, using titanium butoxide as a precursor. Characterization through TEM, XRD, PL, and UV-Vis-DRS analyses revealed uniform quantum dots with an average size of 5.28 nm, a bandgap energy of 3.22 eV, and a crystalline anatase phase, indicative of high photocatalytic activity. Notably, these TiO2-QDs demonstrated exceptional performance in degrading methylene blue (MB) in water, achieving a remarkable treatment efficiency of 97.6% in 120 min, significantly outperforming both conventional titanium dioxide nanoparticles and commercial titanium dioxide materials. The reaction conditions were evaluated based on factors such as catalyst dose, initial MB concentration, and pH. The results indicate that optimal degradation efficiency of MB was achieved at a pH of 7, with a catalyst dose of 0.15 g/L and at a low MB concentration. The efficiency slightly decreased to 94.5% after five reuse cycles, emphasizing its significant reusability and stability. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Neue Regeln für elektronische Schriftsätze — Wie persönliche und rechtsgeschäftliche Erklärungen zu übermitteln sind
Authors: Greger Reinhard
Published: August 2024

Schon seit zweieinhalb Jahren müssen Rechtsanwälte ihre Schriftsätze ans Gericht auf elektronischem Weg übermitteln. Bis auf gelegentliche Störungen beim beA und Pannen bei der Signatur oder Ausgangskontrolle scheint die digitale Kommunikation mittlerweile ganz gut zu funktionieren. Vor Unsicherheiten standen Prozessvertreter aber bisher in zwei Situationen, nämlich wenn sie persönliche Erklärungen ihres Mandanten an das Gericht zu übermitteln hatten oder wenn sie im Schriftsatz eine Erklärung gegenüber dem Gegner abgeben wollten, die nach dem BGB der Schriftform bedarf. Für diese Fälle hat der Gesetzgeber nunmehr mit dem Gesetz zur weiteren Digitalisierung der Justiz v. 12.7.2024 (BGBl. I Nr. 234), in Kraft seit 17.7.2024, Regelungen geschaffen. Diese werfen allerdings wieder neue Fragen auf.
Totalgewinn, Restgewinn, Periodengewinn — Zu den zeitlichen Bezugsgrößen der Einkünfteerzielungsabsicht
Authors: Stark Johanna
Published: August 2024

Eine liberale Wirtschafts- und Rechtsordnung, die dem Einzelnen grundsätzlich die Wahl seines Berufes und die Ausgestaltung seiner wirtschaftlichen Betätigung überlässt, kommt auch mit Blick auf ihre eigenen Existenzbedingungen nicht umhin, einen Kompromiss zu finden zwischen den für den Gebrauch dieser Freiheit nötigen Spielräume und der steuerrechtlich konturierten Teilhabe des Staates an den daraus entstehenden wirtschaftlichen Vorteilen. Wenn sich aus einer Tätigkeit positive Einkünfte ergeben, soll der Staat gemäß der Fiskalfunktion des EStG nach dem Maßstab des objektiven Nettoprinzips daran partizipieren. Nimmt man diese funktionale Verankerung ernst, muss eine von Vornherein nicht auf die Erzielung positiver Einkünfte angelegte Tätigkeit bei der Einkommensbesteuerung außen vor bleiben. Der vorliegende Beitrag betrifft vor diesem Hintergrund die Differenzierung zwischen steuerbaren Verlusten und nicht steuerbarer Liebhaberei anhand des Merkmals der Einkünfteerzielungsabsicht im Bereich der Gewinneinkünfte; im Zentrum stehen die zeitlichen Bezugsgrößen der objektiven Totalgewinnprognose, die nach allgemeiner Auffassung den Ausgangspunkt der zweistufigen Liebhabereiprüfung bildet. Der Beitrag endet mit dem Vorschlag einer reformierten Liebhabereiprüfung, deren objektive erste Stufe bei bereits länger andauernden Tätigkeiten keine Beschränkung auf eine Restgewinnprognose vorsieht. Die hier vorgeschlagenen Veränderungen betreffen vor allem den Umgang mit „Auslaufverlusten“, welche sich in der letzten Phase einer Tätigkeit mit auf die Totalperiode bezogen positiven Einkünften ergeben.
Derivation of magnetic fields on a metal cylinder excited by longitudinal and transverse magnetic dipole transmitters: I. Cylinder in unbounded dissipative dielectric medium
Authors: Freedman Robert
Published: August 2015

We derive new and exact analytical and convergent integral representations for the frequency‐dependent complex magnetic fields Hz(a, ϕ, z) and Hϕ(a, ϕ, z) excited by oscillating point magnetic dipole transmitters on the surface of an infinitely long metal cylinder of radius a in an unbounded dissipative dielectric medium. Hz(a, ϕ, z) is calculated for a longitudinally oriented magnetic dipole parallel to the cylinder axis and Hϕ(a, ϕ, z) for a transversely oriented magnetic dipole perpendicular to the axis. The solutions are relevant to the computation of phase shifts and attenuations measured by electromagnetic propagation logging tools, which have oscillating longitudinal and transverse magnetic dipole transmitters either on a metal drill collar or on a cylindrical antenna pad. The integral representations can be readily evaluated using simple numerical integration algorithms, e.g., Simpson's rule, to accurately compute the complex magnetic fields on the cylinder surface. A second paper will address the two‐layer cylindrical media problem.
Improving shallow‐water carbonate chemostratigraphy by means of rudist bivalve sclerochemistry
Authors: Huck S. , Heimhofer U.
Published: August 2015

Deep‐time shallow‐marine carbonate platforms record distinct biotic responses to climatic and environmental stressors. Unfortunately, precise temporal assignment of these biotic responses is often problematical due to poor biostratigraphic control and/or a significant diagenetic overprint of the neritic bulk carbonate chemostratigraphic inventory. An accurate stratigraphic framework is essential to better understand the causal relation between biotic events recorded by carbonate platforms and environmental changes that, for instance, culminated in mass extinction events or prolonged episodes of oceanic anoxia. Here we provide an integrated carbon and strontium‐isotope stratigraphy of the Early Cretaceous subtropical Provence carbonate platform in SE France that is based solely on pristine low‐Mg calcite from rudist bivalves. Carbon‐isotope data of geochemically screened rudist fragments enabled reconstruction of a characteristic Barremian pattern including the Mid‐Barremian Event (MBE) that allowed for a precise correlation with stratigraphically well‐constrained Tethyan shallow‐water and hemipelagic reference sections. In order to evaluate ontogenetic carbon‐isotope changes and the overall variability of the shell‐derived carbon‐isotope data, numerous sclerochronological carbon‐isotope profiles of individual large rudist shells are presented. Strontium‐isotope stratigraphy supports the carbon‐isotope‐based age of the studied sections, but also provides unequivocal evidence for a major hiatus in the depositional record covering large parts of the Late Barremian. In contrast to biostratigraphic and bulk carbonate chemostratigraphic archives, the here established chronostratigraphy of carbonate platform evolution in the southern Provence region demonstrates a twofold resurgence of rudist‐rich carbonate platform production during the Early Aptian and arguably the latest Early Aptian.
An abyssal hill fractionates organic and inorganic matter in deep‐sea surface sediments
Authors: Turnewitsch Robert , Lahajnar Niko , Haeckel Matthias , Christiansen Bernd
Published: August 2015

Current estimates suggest that more than 60% of the global seafloor are covered by millions of abyssal hills and mountains. These features introduce spatial fluid‐dynamic “granularity” whose influence on deep‐ocean sediment biogeochemistry is unknown. Here we compare biogeochemical surface‐sediment properties from a fluid‐dynamically well‐characterized abyssal hill and upstream plain: (1) In hill sediments, organic‐carbon and ‐nitrogen contents are only about half as high as on the plain while proteinaceous material displays less degradation; (2) on the hill, more coarse‐grained sediments (reducing particle surface area) and very variable calcite contents (influencing particle surface charge) are proposed to reduce the extent, and influence compound‐specificity, of sorptive organic‐matter preservation. Further studies are needed to estimate the representativeness of the results in a global context. Given millions of abyssal hills and mountains, their integrative influence on formation and composition of deep‐sea sediments warrants more attention.
MARSIS remote sounding of localized density structures in the dayside Martian ionosphere: A study of controlling parameters
Authors: Diéval C. , Andrews D. J. , Morgan D. D. , Brain D. A. , Gurnett D. A.
Published: August 2015

Enhanced topside electron densities in the dayside Martian ionosphere have been repetitively observed in areas of near‐radial crustal magnetic fields, for periods of tens of days, indicating their long‐term spatial and temporal stability despite changing solar wind conditions. We perform a statistical study of these density structures using the ionospheric mode of the Mars Advanced Radar for Subsurface and Ionosphere Sounding (MARSIS) onboard Mars Express. We estimate the apparent extents of these structures relative to the altitude of the surrounding ionosphere. The apex of the density structures often lies higher than the surrounding ionosphere (median vertical extent of 18 km), which indicates upwellings. These structures are much wider than they are high, with latitudinal scales of several degrees. The radar reflector regions are observed above both moderate and strong magnetic anomalies, and their precise locations and latitudinal extents match quite well with the locations and latitudinal extents of magnetic structures of given magnetic polarity (oblique to vertical fields), which happen to be regions where the field lines are open part of the time. The majority of the density structures occur in regions where ionospheric plasma is dominant, indicating closed field regions shielded from shocked solar wind plasma.
Whitecap features induced by submarine sand waves in stereo optical imagery
Authors: Zhang Huaguo , Lou Xiulin , Li Yan , Shi Aiqin , Li Dongling , Fu Bin
Published: August 2015

Under high wind speed conditions, waves break on the sea surface producing whitecaps, which can be recorded in optical satellite images. However, the breaking of waves is also influenced by submarine topography. In this study, we investigate the whitecap features induced by submarine sand waves using optical stereo images. We determine the whitecap coverage in images, and estimate the probabilities of wave breaking. The observed and estimated results are in agreement with some previous investigation results. A physical model is used to discuss the mechanisms of wave breaking along sand wave crests. The physical model is able to qualitatively explain the differences between the observed whitecap coverage and the estimated probability of wave breaking between the sand wave area (SWA) and the background area (BGA). Further analysis shows that the periodic sand wave system may play the role of a frequency‐control device, and may result in more broken waves in the SWA than in the BGA. This study demonstrates that it is possible to observe submarine topography under high‐wind conditions by using whitecap features.
Short wind waves on the ocean: Long‐wave and wind‐speed dependences
Authors: Plant William J.
Published: August 2015

This second paper of our set on short wind waves on the ocean utilizes the wavenumber‐frequency spectrum of short wave heights, F(k,f), derived in our previous paper to investigate kinematic effects on the dependence of the frequency spectrum, F(f), and the wavenumber spectrum, F(k), on long‐wave height. We show that the model predicts that neither F(f) nor F(k) are exactly power law functions of their independent variables and that F(f) varies with significant wave height much more than F(k) does. After calibrating the model against wave gauges, we also investigate the dependence of mean‐square‐slopes (mss), mean‐square heights (msh) and root‐mean‐square orbital velocities (rmsv) of short ocean waves on wind speed and maximum frequency or wavenumber. We use data from the wire wave gauges on University of Miami's Air‐Sea Interaction Spar (ASIS) buoy for calibration purposes. Frequency spectra from the wave gauges begin to be affected by noise at about 2.5 Hz. Therefore, above 1 Hz, we utilize F(f) from the modeled F(k,f) to extend the frequency dependence up to 180 Hz. We set modeled spectral densities by matching measured spectra at 1 Hz. Using the calibrated F(f,k), we are able to estimate the average value of the total mss, for long and short waves, and its upwind and crosswind components up to 180 Hz for a variety of wind speeds. The average mss values are in good agreement with the measurements of Cox and Munk [1954], although the upwind and crosswind components agree less well.
Potential sensitivity of warm season precipitation to urbanization extents: Modeling study in Beijing‐Tianjin‐Hebei urban agglomeration in China
Authors: Wang Jun , Feng Jinming , Yan Zhongwei
Published: August 2015

In this study, we investigated how different degrees of urbanization affect local and regional rainfall using high‐resolution simulations based on the Weather Research and Forecasting Model. The extreme rainfall event of 21 July 2012 in Beijing was simulated for three representative urban land use distributions (no urbanization, early urbanization level of 1980, and recent urbanization level of 2009). Results suggest that urban modification of rainfall is potentially sensitive to urban land use condition. Rainfall was increased significantly over the downwind Beijing metropolis because of the effects of early urbanization; however, recent conditions of high urban development caused no significant increase. Further comparative analysis revealed that positive urban thermodynamical effects (i.e., urban warming, increased sensible heat transportation, and enhanced convergence and vertical motions) play major roles in urban modification of rainfall during the early urbanization stage. However, after cities expand to a certain extent (i.e., urban agglomeration), the regional moisture depression induced by the prevalence of impervious urban land has an effect on atmospheric instability energy, which might negate the city's positive impact on regional rainfall. Additional results from regional climate simulations for 10 Julys confirm this supposition. Given the explosive urban population growth and increasing demand for freshwater in cities, the potential negative effects of the urban environment on precipitation are worth investigation, particularly in rapidly developing countries and regions.
Vertical and oblique ionospheric soundings over the long haul HF link between Antarctica and Spain
Authors: Ads A. G. , Bergadà P. , Regué J. R. , Alsina‐Pagès R. M. , Pijoan J. L. , Altadill D. , Badia D. , Graells S.
Published: August 2015

This paper presents a comparative study between the oblique sounding results, the International Telecommunication Union Rec533 HF prediction model, and the vertical sounding results of a transequatorial long haul link. The long haul link is a 12,760 km link between the Spanish Antarctic Station, SAS, located in the Livingston Island and the Ebro Observatory (OE) in Spain. The data were collected during three consecutive surveys (2009/2010, 2010/2011, and 2011/2012). The ionospheric channel from the SAS to the OE is studied in terms of frequency availability as function of time using the measurements of an oblique incidence sounder (OIS) and measurements of several vertical incidence sounding stations (VIS) placed near the estimated radiopropagation path. The results obtained show promising correlations between VIS and OIS measurements and led us to think that the frequency of largest availability for this particular long haul radio link can be estimated from the VIS sounding measurements.
Involvement of Executive Functions in Children's Metamemory
Authors: Geurten Marie , Catale Corinne , Meulemans Thierry
Published: August 2015

This experiment examined how knowledge of memory strategies and of memory functioning improves during childhood and what variables are involved in this development. Three main aspects of metamemory were assessed based on the performance of a group of 100 children (aged 4, 6, 9 and 11 years) on a battery of executive tasks. At the same time, the influence of variables such as intelligence, vocabulary and parental education level was also investigated. Results of mediation analyses reveal that the relation between children's age and internal strategy knowledge was partially mediated by working memory skills but that executive functions did not mediate the impact of chronological age on children's knowledge of external strategies or of memory functioning. Additionally, verbal fluency predicted internal and external strategy knowledge. Implications for general learning theories in childhood are discussed.Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spiro Linkage as an Alternative Strategy for Promising Nonfullerene Acceptors in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Xiao‐Feng , Fu Wei‐Fei , Xu Zheng , Shi Minmin , Liu Feng , Chen Hong‐Zheng , Wan Jun‐Hua , Russell Thomas P.
Published: August 2015

This work focuses on developing diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP)‐based small molecular nonfullerene acceptors for bulk heterojunction (BHJ) organic solar cells. The materials, SF‐DPPs, have an X‐shaped geometry arising from four DPP units attached to a spirobifluorene (SF) center. The spiro‐dimer of DPP‐fluorene‐DPP is highly twisted, which suppresses strong intermolecular aggregation. Branched 2‐ethylhexyl (EH), linear n‐octyl (C8), and n‐dodecyl (C12) alkyl sides are chosen as substituents to functionalize the N,N‐positions of the DPP moiety to tune molecular interactions. SF‐DPPEH, the best candidate in SF‐DPPs family, when blended with poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) showed a moderate crystallinity and gives a Jsc of 6.96 mA cm−2, Voc of 1.10 V, a fill factor of 47.5%, and a power conversion efficiency of 3.63%. However, SF‐DPPC8 and SF‐DPPC12 exhibit lower crystallinity in their BHJ blends, which is responsible for their reduced Jsc. Coupling DPP units with SF using an acetylene bridge yields SF‐A‐DPP molecules. Such a small modification leads to drastically different morphological features and far inferior device performance. These observations demonstrate a solid structure–property relationship by topology control and material design. This work offers a new molecular design approach to develop efficient small molecule nonfullerene acceptors.
Bis‐GMA Free Dental Materials Based on UDMA/SR833s Dental Resin System
Authors: DING YUFEI , LI BAOJUN , WANG MINGHUI , LIU FANG , HE JINGWEI
Published: August 2015

Tricyclododecane dimethanol diacrylate (SR833s) was used to replace triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) as a diluent monomer and mixed with 1,6‐bis(methacryloxy‐2‐ethoxy‐carbonylamino)‐2,4,4‐trimethylhexane (UDMA) to prepare 2,2‐bis[4‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methacryloyloxypropyl)‐phenyl]propane (Bis‐GMA) free dental resin system, and commonly used BaAlSiO2 dental microfillers were added into UDMA/SR833s resin to prepare Bis‐GMA free dental composites. Physicochemical properties such as double bond conversion, polymerization shrinkage, water sorption and solubility, flexural strength, and modulus of UDMA/SR833s resin and relevant composites were investigated. The results showed that UDMA/SR833s resin had better physicochemical properties than UDMA/TEGDMA and Bis‐GMA/TEGDMA resins. Although UDMA/SR833s‐based composites had lower flexural strength and modulus than commercial dental composite Z250, they still met the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard requirement (in flexural strength and modulus for resin‐based dental materials). Except for the flexural strength and modulus, all the other properties of UDMA/SR833s‐based composites were comparable or better than those of Z250. Therefore, UDMA/SR833s resin and its relevant composites had potential to be used in dentistry as Bis‐GMA free dental materials.
Observation of Electrochemically Driven Elemental Segregation in a Si Alloy Thin‐Film Anode and its Effects on Cyclic Stability for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Oh Minsub , Na Sekwon , Woo Chang‐Su , Jeong Jun‐Ho , Kim Sung‐Soo , Bachmatiuk Alicja , Rümmeli Mark Hermann , Hyun Seungmin , Lee Hoo‐Jeong
Published: August 2015

The results of employing (Ti, Fe)‐alloyed Si thin‐film anode for Li‐ion batteries are reported. The material demonstrates an impressive cyclic stability with stable operation for more than 500 cycles at a capacity higher than 1400 mAh g−1. Materials characterization using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy illuminates an intriguing materials process behind the performance: ripple‐like pattern formation via electrochemically driven segregation of the inactive elements (Ti and Fe). The ripple structure plays a buffer role by suppressing loss of the active material upon further cycling, allowing the anode to gradually transform into an array of microbumps. The morphological evolution helps the anode endure long cycles (even up to 1000 cycles) without catastrophic failure as the bumps shrank slowly and steadily, consistent with the electrochemical data.
Prins‐Driven Friedel–Crafts Reaction for the Stereoselective Synthesis of Hexahydroindeno[2,1‐c]pyran Derivatives
Authors: Reddy B. V. Subba , Reddy G. Niranjan , Reddy M. Ramana , Lakshmi J. K. , Jagadeesh B. , Sridhar B.
Published: August 2015

A strategy has been devised for the stereoselective synthesis of hexahydroindeno[2,1‐c]pyran scaffolds through a domino cyclization of (E)‐3,5‐diphenylpent‐4‐en‐1‐ol with aldehydes using BF3⋅OEt2 at 70 °C. It is an approach for the construction of the indeno[2,1‐c]pyran skeleton in a one‐pot operation through a cascade cyclization.
Severe heatstroke complicated with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tada Yuusuke , Fukushima Hidetada , Watanabe Tomoo , Ito Shingo , Norimoto Kazunobu , Ueyama Tooru , Okuchi Kazuo
Published: August 2015

Case

A 69 year‐old female with history of schizophrenia was transported to our hospital by ambulance due to coma. On arrival, she was hypotensive and tachycardic with a Glasgow coma scale score of 3 and a rectal core temperature of 40°C. Heatstroke was strongly suspected as the cause of the coma and hypotension. Active external cooling with an electric fan and cooled IV fluid administration were started. Her electrocardiogram (EKG) showed ST elevation in V2‐6, II, III and aVF. Echocardiography revealed apical ballooning, which indicated Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Coronary angiography indicated normal coronary arteries.

Outcome

After admission to the intensive care unit, her cardiovascular status gradually improved and she was transferred to the psychiatric ward on day 36.

Conclusion

Heatstroke and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy can share the same pathophysiology. Close evaluation of hemodynamic status and myocardial damage is critical for survival.
Effect of pre‐injury anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents on blood loss in elderly patients with severe trauma
Authors: Ohmori Takao , Kitamura Taisuke , Onishi Hirokazu , Ishihara Junko , Nojima Tsuyoshi , Yamamoto Koutarou
Published: August 2015

Aim

It has been widely reported that pre‐injury use of anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents can affect traumatic brain injury and the associated risk of mortality, however, the effect of these agents on non‐head injury site‐related blood loss remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated the effects of pre‐injury anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents on the transfusion amount and the need for massive transfusion in elderly patients with severe trauma.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed a cohort of elderly patients with severe trauma (age, ≥65 years; Injury Severity Score, ≥16) between September 2006 and March 2014. The selected patients were subsequently divided into patients who were: only taking warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel; taking various combinations of these agents; and a control group who were not taking any of these agents.

Results

During the study period, 67 patients (20%) were taking anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents and 272 patients were included in the control group. Among these patients, 10 were receiving only warfarin, 28 were receiving only aspirin, 14 were receiving only clopidogrel, and 13 were receiving various combinations of these medications. The amount of red cell concentrate and need for massive transfusions were only significantly increased in the warfarin group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the warfarin group had a significantly higher risk of needing a massive transfusion with multivariate logistic regression analysis (odds ratio, 5.03; 95% confidence interval, 1.25–20.20; P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients who were receiving only warfarin before their injury had an increased risk of bleeding due to non‐head injuries.
Pericytes are involved in the pathogenesis of cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Ghosh Mitrajit , Balbi Matilde , Hellal Farida , Dichgans Martin , Lindauer Ute , Plesnila Nikolaus
Published: August 2015

Objective

Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), the most common inherited small‐vessel disease, is associated with vascular aggregation of mutant Notch3 protein, dysfunction of cerebral vessels, and dementia. Pericytes, perivascular cells involved in microvascular function, express Notch3. Therefore, we hypothesize that these cells may play a role in the pathogenesis of CADASIL.

Methods

Two‐, 7‐, and 12‐month‐old CADASIL mutant mice (TgNotch3R169C) and wild‐type controls were examined regarding Notch3 aggregation in pericytes, the coverage of cerebral vessels by pericytes, pericyte numbers, capillary density, blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity, astrocytic end‐feet, and the expression of astrocytic gap junction and endothelial adherens junction protein using immunostaining and Western blot analysis. In addition, we examined cerebrovascular CO2 reactivity using laser Doppler fluxmetry and in vivo microscopy.

Results

With increasing age, mutated Notch3 aggregated around pericytes and smooth muscle cells. Notch3 aggregation caused significant reduction of pericyte number and coverage of capillaries by pericyte processes (p < 0.01). These changes were associated with detachment of astrocytic end‐feet from cerebral microvessels, leakage of plasma proteins, reduction in expression of endothelial adherens junction protein, and reduced microvascular reactivity to CO2. Smooth muscle cells were not affected by Notch3 accumulation.

Interpretation

Our results show that pericytes are the first cells affected by Notch3 aggregation in CADASIL mice. Pericyte pathology causes opening of the BBB and microvascular dysfunction. Therefore, protecting pericytes may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for vascular dementia. Ann Neurol 2015;78:887–900