bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Through-needle all-optical ultrasound imaging in vivo: a preclinical swine study
Authors: Finlay Malcolm C , Mosse Charles A , Colchester Richard J , Noimark Sacha , Zhang Edward Z , Ourselin Sebastien , Beard Paul C , Schilling Richard J , Parkin Ivan P , Papakonstantinou Ioannis , Desjardins Adrien E
Published: December 2017

High-frequency ultrasound imaging can provide exquisite visualizations of tissue to guide minimally invasive procedures. Here, we demonstrate that an all-optical ultrasound transducer, through which light guided by optical fibers is used to generate and receive ultrasound, is suitable for real-time invasive medical imaging in vivo. Broad-bandwidth ultrasound generation was achieved through the photoacoustic excitation of a multiwalled carbon nanotube-polydimethylsiloxane composite coating on the distal end of a 300-μm multi-mode optical fiber by a pulsed laser. The interrogation of a high-finesse Fabry–Pérot cavity on a single-mode optical fiber by a wavelength-tunable continuous-wave laser was applied for ultrasound reception. This transducer was integrated within a custom inner transseptal needle (diameter 1.08 mm; length 78 cm) that included a metallic septum to acoustically isolate the two optical fibers. The use of this needle within the beating heart of a pig provided unprecedented real-time views (50 Hz scan rate) of cardiac tissue (depth: 2.5 cm; axial resolution: 64 μm) and revealed the critical anatomical structures required to safely perform a transseptal crossing: the right and left atrial walls, the right atrial appendage, and the limbus fossae ovalis. This new paradigm will allow ultrasound imaging to be integrated into a broad range of minimally invasive devices in different clinical contexts.
Co-expression of mFat-1 and pig IGF-1 genes by recombinant plasmids in modified chitosan nanoparticles and its synergistic effect on mouse immunity
Authors: Xiong Qi , Chen Jianlin , Li Fei-Lin , Zhao Shiji , Wan Xiaoping , Yang Xiao , Li Jianglin , Luo Danyu , Wang Zezhou , Lv Xuebin , Gao Rong
Published: December 2017

To develop a cost-effective molecular regulator to improve growth metabolism and immunity of animals, a recombinant plasmid co-expressing fatty acid desaturase (mFat-1) and pig insulin growth like factor 1 (IGF-1) genes was constructed by the 2 A self-cleavage technique. After entrapment within modified chitosan nanoparticles (chitosan modified with polyethyleneglycol–polyethylenimine, CPP), the recombinant plasmid was injected intramuscularly into mice. Compared with controls, co-expression of mFat-1 and IGF-1 significantly raised the level of serum IGF-1, and increased the liver and muscle docosa hexaenoic acid (DHA) content. Th and Tc cell levels were also elevated, as were expression levels of serum IL-4 and IL-6 genes. These results demonstrate that the immunity and metabolism of an animal can be effectively improved by co-expression of mFat-1 and IGF-1 genesin vivo, which may contribute to further development of novel immunomodulators with beneficial effects on growth metabolism and immunity.
Lactation has persistent effects on a mother’s metabolism and mitochondrial function
Authors: Hyatt Hayden W. , Zhang Yufeng , Hood Wendy R. , Kavazis Andreas N.
Published: December 2017

Human epidemiological data show that breastfeeding reduces the prevalence of numerous diseases compared to mothers that give birth but do not participate in lactation. The goal of this study was to determine if differences in metabolism, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress underlie the protective phenotype found in lactating women. Ten-week old female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups (n = 8 per group): 1) rats that did not reproduce (NR), 2) rats that were allowed to mate and become pregnant but did not suckle their pups after giving birth (NL), and 3) rats that were allowed to mate and become pregnant and suckled their pups for 21 days before weaning (L). All animals were sacrificed at approximately 7 months of age, a time corresponding to 15 weeks after the NL and L females gave birth. Liver mitochondrial respiration was higher in L rats when using NADH-linked substrates and these rats had lower serum glucose concentration. Additionally, the L group exhibited changes in liver, skeletal muscle, and white adipose tissue PPARδ protein levels that may, in part, explain the observed lower serum glucose concentration. These novel animal findings provide evidence of differences in metabolic processes that persist months after weaning.
Optimal pre-plant irrigation and fertilization can improve biomass accumulation by maintaining the root and leaf productive capacity of cotton crop
Authors: Chen Zongkui , Ma Hui , Xia Jun , Hou Fei , Shi Xiaojuan , Hao Xianzhe , Hafeez Abdul , Han Huanyong , Luo Honghai
Published: December 2017

Cotton is a major cash crop grown worldwide primarily for fiber and oil seed. As the most important cultural practices for cotton production, single pre-plant irrigation and basal fertilization for cotton plant growth and yield are well documented, but their coupling effects are poorly understood in arid regions. A 2-year outdoor pot trial was conducted to unravel the effects of pre-plant irrigation and basal fertilization on leaf area, root growth, biomass accumulation, and capacity of leaf area and root in cotton plant. Two pre-plant irrigations (i.e., W80, well-watered and W0, not watered) and two basal dressing fertilizations (F10, surface application and F30, deep application) were used in the experiments. The aboveground and reproductive biomass were highest in W80F10 after 69 days after emergence. Furthermore, W80F10 increased the root length in the 0–40 cm soil layer and the leaf area and improved the loading boll capacity of the effective root length and leaf area. The effective root length and leaf area had substantial direct effects on the aboveground and root biomass, respectively. Our data suggest that basal fertilizer surface application under adequate pre-plant irrigation is an effective strategy for optimal cotton production, which improves the coordination of water-nutrient absorption and photosynthetic areas and promotes assimilated distribution to the reproductive structures.
Polyhydric polymer-loaded pyrene composites as powerful adsorbents and fluorescent probes: highly efficient adsorption and test strips-based fluorimetric analysis of curcumin in urine and plant extracts
Authors: Duan Zhiqiang , Yin Mengyuan , Zhang Chuanxian , Song Guilin , Zhao Shengying , Yang Fan , Feng Luping , Fan Chuan , Zhu Shuyun , Wang Hua
Published: December 2017

A polyhydric polymer fluorescent probe was designed for the accumulation and fluorimetric detection of curcumin (Cur).
A novel bismuth-based anode material with a stable alloying process by the space confinement of an in situ conversion reaction for a rechargeable magnesium ion battery
Authors: Wang Wei , Liu Lin , Wang Peng-Fei , Zuo Tong-Tong , Yin Ya-Xia , Wu Na , Zhou Jin-Ming , Wei Yu , Guo Yu-Guo
Published: December 2017

Due to the space confinement of in situ conversion, the BiOF electrode shows superior magnesium storage performance.
Improved synthesis of 8-oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octanes via tandem C–H oxidation/oxa-[3,3] Cope rearrangement/aldol cyclization
Authors: Liu Lin , Cheng Hai-Long , Ma Wen-Qiang , Hou Si-Hua , Tu Yong-Qiang , Zhang Fu-Min , Zhang Xiao-Ming , Wang Shao-Hua
Published: December 2017

A tandem C–H oxidation/oxa-[3,3] Cope rearrangement/aldol cyclization promoted by T+BF4−/ZnBr2 has been successfully developed allowing the efficient construction of 8-oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octanes.
Correction: Synthesis of Z-alkenes via visible light promoted photocatalytic E → Z isomerization under metal-free conditions
Authors: Cai Wenbin , Fan Huaqiang , Ding Dazhong , Zhang Yongqiang , Wang Wei
Published: December 2017

Correction for ‘Synthesis of Z-alkenes via visible light promoted photocatalytic E → Z isomerization under metal-free conditions’ by Wenbin Cai et al., Chem. Commun., 2017, DOI: 10.1039/c7cc07984b.
Polymorphism in secondary squaramides: on the importance of π-interactions involving the four membered ring
Authors: Prohens Rafel , Portell Anna , Vallcorba Oriol , Font-Bardia Mercè , Bauzá Antonio , Frontera Antonio
Published: December 2017

We report the crystal structures of four new squaric acid derivatives, i.e. three polymorphs of 3,4-bis((2-(dimethylamino)ethyl)amino)cyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione (1a–c) and a cocrystal with resorcinol. A DFT study has been also carried out to investigate the supramolecular assemblies.
CoO microspheres and metallic Co evolved from hexagonal α-Co(OH)2 plates in a hydrothermal process for lithium storage and magnetic applications
Authors: Ma KeYuan , Liu F. , Yuan Y. F. , Liu X. Q. , Wang Jun , Xie J. , Cheng J. P.
Published: December 2017

CoO microspheres and metallic Co could be synthesized by a hydrothermal process under different reaction times.
Visible-light-induced regioselective sulfenylation of imidazopyridines with thiols under transition metal-free conditions
Authors: Rahaman Rajjakfur , Das Shivasish , Barman Pranjit
Published: December 2017

Visible-light-induced regioselective sulfenylation of imidazopyridines and indoles with thiols under transition metal-free conditions.
Metal binding properties of zinc fingers with a naturally altered metal binding site
Authors: Kluska Katarzyna , Adamczyk Justyna , Krężel Artur
Published: December 2017

Nanomolar and picomolar Zn(ii) binding properties of a naturally altered zinc fingers.
Total synthesis of selaginpulvilins A and C
Authors: Chinta Bhavani Shankar , Baire Beeraiah
Published: December 2017

An efficient strategy for the formal total synthesis of selaginpulvilins A and C has been reported. This approach involves 6 and 7 linear synthetic operations and is associated with 10% and 7% overall yields respectively for selaginpulvilins A and C.
Correction: Fabrication of free-standing membranes with tunable pore structures based on the combination of electrospinning and self-assembly of block copolymers
Authors: Zhou Meimei , Wu Yi-nan , Luo Pingping , Lyu Jiqiang , Mu Dengrui , Li Aowen , Li Fengting , Li Guangtao
Published: December 2017

Correction for ‘Fabrication of free-standing membranes with tunable pore structures based on the combination of electrospinning and self-assembly of block copolymers’ by Meimei Zhou et al., RSC Adv., 2017, 7, 49568–49575.
Sterol 27-hydroxylase gene dosage and the antiatherosclerotic effect of Rifampicin in mice
Authors: Zurkinden Line , Sviridov Dmitri , Vogt Bruno , Escher Geneviève
Published: December 2017

Sterol 27-hydroxylase (CYP27A1) catalyzes the hydroxylation of cholesterol to 27-hydroxycholesterol (27-OHC) and regulates cholesterol homeostasis. In Cyp27a1/ Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) double knockout (KO) mice fed with Western diet (WD), the atherosclerotic phenotype found in ApoE KO mice was reversed. As protective mechanism, up-regulation of Cyp3a11 and Cyp7a1 was proposed. Cyp27a1 heterozygote/ApoE KO (het) mice, with reduced Cyp27a1 expression and normal levels of Cyp7a1 and Cyp3a11, developed more severe lesions than ApoE KO mice. To analyze the contribution of Cyp3a11 to the protection of atherosclerosis development, Cyp3a11 was induced by Rifampicin (RIF) in ApoE KO and het mice. Males were fed with WD and treated daily with RIF (10 mg/kg ip) or vehicle for 4 weeks. Atherosclerosis was quantified in the aortic valve. Plasma lipids and 27-hydroxycholesterol (27-OHC), expression of cytochromes P450 and genes involved in cholesterol transport and bile acids (BAs) signaling in liver and intestine, and intestinal cholesterol absorption were analyzed. RIF increased expression of hepatic but not intestinal Cyp3a11 4-fold in both genotypes. In ApoE KO mice treated with RIF, we found a 2-fold decrease in plasma cholesterol, and a 2-fold increase in high-density lipoprotein/low-density lipoprotein ratio and CY27A1 activity. Intestinal cholesterol absorption remained unchanged and atherosclerotic lesions decreased approximately 3-fold. In het mice, RIF had no effect on plasma lipids composition, CYP27A1 activity, and atherosclerotic plaque development, despite a reduction in cholesterol absorption. In conclusion, the antiatherogenic effect of Cyp3a11 induction by RIF was also dependent on Cyp27a1 expression.
Effect of drowsiness on mechanical arm admittance and driving performances
Authors: Joly Antonin , Zheng Rencheng , Kaizuka Tsutomu , Nakano Kimihiko
Published: December 2017

Drowsiness as one of the impaired driving behaviour is an important area of concern in ground transportation safety. It can coincide with skill‐demanding situations that may lead to vehicle control loss and possibly traffic accidents. Although drowsiness effects on driving performances have been widely investigated, there are few studies that propose a description of its effect on human neuromuscular state. To address this issue, this study aims to investigate the effects of drowsiness on driver neuromuscular state via the estimation of mechanical arm admittance. Mechanical arm admittance is a car dedicated parameter that gives information about arm stiffness of driver and its corresponding response in the frequency domain. Ten participants performed an experiment on a driving simulator, where they experienced steering disturbances, which aims to estimate variations of mechanical arm admittance as well as variations of driving performances between alert and drowsy states. Moreover, variation in driving performances were assessed by the variation of steering reversal rate and standard deviation of lane position. Results indicate that drowsiness increases the gain of mechanical arm admittance for arm movements <2.5 Hz and also deteriorates car steering control, increasing the steering operations amplitude and leading to larger vehicle lateral deviations.
Statin Intolerance: Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Khanna Roopali , Himanshu Dandu
Published: December 2017

Statins are the main cornerstone in the treatment of coronary artery disease. Statins not only reduce the cardiovascular events but also significantly reduce the all-cause mortality. Due to adverse effects of statins, 20 to 30% of patients discontinue statins without consulting the physician. Most common adverse effects reported are muscle symptoms. Studies have shown that the majority of these patients can tolerate statin upon rechallenge. Alternative statin dosing, alternate-day statin, or twice-weekly statin dosing are different strategies to be given before changing to nonstatin lipid-lowering therapy. The newer nonstatin lipid-lowering drugs (ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors) can be added if the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) target level can be achieved despite the maximally tolerated statin dose. This article reviews the etiology, clinical symptoms, and management of statin intolerance.
Endoscopic and Microscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery of Craniopharyngiomas: A Systematic Review of Surgical Outcomes Over Two Decades
Authors: Zoli Matteo , Mazzatenta Diego , Gompel Jamie , Cagnazzo Federico
Published: December 2017

Objective Few studies have compared transsphenoidal endoscopic (TE) and transsphenoidal microscopic (TM) techniques for the treatment of craniopharyngiomas.

Design We performed a systematic review of published series. The results were stratified in two time periods from 1995 to 2016.

Results A total of 48 articles and 1,186 patients met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 60% of endoscopic cases were supradiaphragmatic, and 76% of microsurgical cases were infradiaphragmatic. Mean tumor size was 3 cm and 2.4 cm in the TE and TM series, respectively (p = 0.008). Total resection rate was similar (66%) between TE and TM. Considering the surgical outcome for different tumor locations, total resection rate was slightly higher in the TE for supradiaphragmatic lesions (59% versus 42.5%; p = 0.26). Recurrence rate was higher in the endoscopic series (21.7% versus 12%). Mortality and the overall complication rates were similar (p = 0.84). However, hydrocephalus (7.6%) and cognitive dysfunction (15.8%) were more common in TE, and meningitis (6%) and endocrinologic complications were more common in the TM series. In the past 6 years, the rate of cerebrospinal fluid leak in TE was significantly lower (13%) and was comparable between TE and TM.

Conclusion Both techniques appear comparable for infradiaphragmatic lesions; however, TE seems to yield better results for supradiaphragmatic tumors. In conclusion, more complex lesions with difficult locations can be effectively treated with endoscopic surgery.
Is Pregnancy a Risk Factor for Future Cardiovascular Events?
Authors: Chhabra Shibba , Bali Ruhani , Kaur Tripat , Singh Bhupinder , Goyal Abhishek , Tandon Rohit , Aslam Naved , Mohan Bishav , Wander Gurpreet
Published: December 2017

Pregnancy is a normal physiologic state in a woman's life, and according to traditional beliefs, it may not be predictive of future cardiovascular disease (CVD) lest it is complicated by some adverse events. Contrary to the previous beliefs, the complications are not limited to pregnancy period and may leave permanent vascular and metabolic damage. Factors such as lipid inflammatory pathways and vascular functions play a vital role in determining the cardiovascular risk in pregnancy. In addition to modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors, emerging factors like genetics and epigenetics risk, obesity, metabolic syndrome, lifestyle, inflammatory and hypertensive disorders, and endothelial dysfunction with gestational diabetes help in determining the future CVD.

The present debate is an effort to study that besides the common risk factors such as gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia, preterm delivery, assisted reproductive technology–related pregnancy events, and arrhythmias also have a bearing on future cardiovascular risk of a woman. The awareness in the medical community especially obstetricians, physicians, and cardiologists may play a pivotal role in detecting these complications and appropriate follow-up.
Modern Approaches to Skin Care
Authors: Guthrie Ashley , Kadakia Sameep , Hu Shirley , Sawhney Raja , Schumacher Jennifer , Ducic Yadranko
Published: December 2017

Recent years have seen an increased interest in minimally invasive and noninvasive cosmetic surgery and facial aesthetics. There has been a concomitant surge in the focus on skin care, which, by nature, is minimally invasive, and an exponential growth in the popularity and availability of minimally invasive dermatologic procedures and products. This review seeks to provide an overview of the most commonly employed skin care modalities, such as their mechanisms, indications for use, advantages and disadvantages, and side effects. The authors aim to provide the audience with a fundamental understanding of the options currently available to cosmetic surgeons and practitioners. Topics include retinoids, chemical peels, skin-lightening agents, lasers, microneedling, topical antioxidants, and injectables.
Optimal Costal Cartilage Graft Selection According to Cartilage Shape: Anatomical Considerations for Rhinoplasty
Authors: Bender-Heine Adam , Russell Michelle , Rickards Allen , Holmes J. , Armeni Mark , Lambert H. , Zdilla Matthew
Published: December 2017

Costal cartilage grafting is a commonly used reconstruction procedure, particularly in rhinoplasty. Although costal cartilage is broadly used in reconstructive surgery, there are differing opinions regarding which costal cartilage levels provide the most ideal grafts. Grafts are typically designed to match the shape of the recipient site. The shapes of costal cartilage grafts have been described as “boat-shaped,” “C-shaped,” “canoe-shaped,” “U-shaped,” “crescent-shaped,” “L-shaped,” “semilunar,” “straight,” and “Y-shaped.” The shapes of costal cartilages are thought to lend themselves to the shapes of certain grafts; however, there has been little study of the shapes of costal cartilages, and most reports have been anecdotal. Therefore, this study is aimed to detail the average shapes of the most commonly grafted cartilages (i.e., the fifth to seventh cartilages). A total of 96 cadaveric costal cartilages were analyzed through geometric morphometric analysis. The fifth costal cartilage was determined to have the straightest shape and would therefore be particularly suitable for nasal dorsum onlay grafting. The lateral portions of the sixth and, particularly, the seventh costal cartilages have the most acute curvature. Therefore, they would lend themselves to the construction of an en bloc “L”-shaped or hockey stick-shaped nasal dorsum-columellar strut graft.
Secondary Repair of the Zygoma
Authors: Yanik Susan , Tatum Sherard , Orzell Susannah
Published: December 2017

Secondary deformities of the zygoma are a rare entity, thanks to the adoption and refinement of open reduction and internal fixation techniques. These injuries are often difficult to treat due to the unique structural, functional, and aesthetic properties of the zygoma. Purely cosmetic defects can often be managed with implants; however, functional deficits generally require mobilization, correction, and subsequent fixation of the defect(s). Performing the necessary osteotomies to mobilize the zygoma is the most crucial part of the procedure, and had traditionally been executed without the use of computer aids. Planning for and performing this step was very difficult and frequently resulted in unsatisfactory outcomes. Recent advancements in virtual mapping and planning have obviated the need for guesswork and have resulted in improved functional and aesthetic outcomes following repositioning. This article will discuss the use of implants, osteotomies, and computer-assisted design/modeling (CAD/CAM) in addressing secondary deformities of the zygoma.
Overconfidence, self-knowledge, and self-improvement
Authors: Özaltun Eylem
Published: December 2017

Recently physician overconfidence has been considered as a major factor contributing to diagnostic error. A philosophical inquiry into overconfidence as a character vice has the promise of shedding light on how we can overcome this vice and potentially reduce diagnostic errors. In his recent work, Quassim Cassam conducts such an inquiry. This paper puts Cassam’s work on physician overconfidence in the context of his theoretical work on self-knowledge and epistemic vices. It shows that physician overconfidence, considered as a major factor in diagnostic error, provides a significant real-life application of Cassam’s accounts of self-knowledge and epistemic vices. It focuses on the features of these accounts that lead to the following result: self-knowledge is rarely, if ever, a remedy for physicians’ overconfidence and the resulting diagnostic errors. By appealing to the same data Cassam cites regarding diagnostic error and physicians’ overconfidence, it is shown that the more substantial—in the sense Cassam specifies—one’s third-personal knowledge of oneself is, the less likely it is to be of any practical value qua self-knowledge. This paper defends the view that what Cassam calls ‘trivial self-knowledge’—first-personal knowledge that has been the primary concern for philosophers—is crucial for any kind of self-knowledge to be instrumental for self-improvement. Since an agent acts from the standpoint that she is aware of herself trivially, it is argued that what Cassam calls ‘substantial self-knowledge’ has no practical value unless it is integrated with what he calls ‘trivial self-knowledge’. In this way the paper explains why if what one learns about oneself from the third-person perspective is drastically different from what one takes to be true from the first-person perspective, one cannot act on this knowledge. Since the standpoint from which one experiences and acts intentionally are one and the same, the paper also explains why traumatic experiences (such as the death of a patient or of a loved one) can sometimes lead to fundamental change and self-improvement.
Characteristics of a KA-band third-harmonic peniotron driven by a high-quality linear axis-encircling electron beam
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyun , Tuo Xianguo , Ge Qing , Peng Ying
Published: December 2017

We employ a high-quality linear axis-encircling electron beam generated by a Cuccia coupler to drive a Ka-band third-harmonic peniotron and develop a self-consistent nonlinear calculation code to numerically analyze the characteristics of the designed peniotron. It is demonstrated that through a Cuccia coupler, a 6 kV, 0.5 A pencil beam and an input microwave power of 16 kW at 10 GHz can generate a 37 kV, 0.5 A linear axis-encircling beam, and it is characterized by a very low velocity spread. Moreover, the electron beam guiding center deviation can be adjusted easily. Driven by such a beam, a 30 GHz, Ka-band third-harmonic peniotron is predicted to achieve a conversion efficiency of 51.0% and a microwave output power of 9.44 kW; the results are in good agreement with the Magic3D simulation. Using this code, we studied the factors influencing the peniotron performance, and it can provide some guidelines for the design of a Ka-band third-harmonic peniotron driven by a linear electron beam and can promote the application of high-harmonic peniotrons in practice.
Scaling behavior of knotted random polygons and self-avoiding polygons: Topological swelling with enhanced exponent
Authors: Uehara Erica , Deguchi Tetsuo
Published: December 2017

We show that the average size of self-avoiding polygons (SAPs) with a fixed knot is much larger than that of no topological constraint if the excluded volume is small and the number of segments is large. We call it topological swelling. We argue an “enhancement” of the scaling exponent for random polygons with a fixed knot. We study them systematically through SAP consisting of hard cylindrical segments with various different values of the radius of segments. Here we mean by the average size the mean-square radius of gyration. Furthermore, we show numerically that the topological balance length of a composite knot is given by the sum of those of all constituent prime knots. Here we define the topological balance length of a knot by such a number of segments that topological entropic repulsions are balanced with the knot complexity in the average size. The additivity suggests the local knot picture.
Electrically-inactive phosphorus re-distribution during low temperature annealing
Authors: Peral Ana , Youssef Amanda , Dastgheib-Shirazi Amir , Akey Austin , Peters Ian Marius , Hahn Giso , Buonassisi Tonio , del Cañizo Carlos
Published: December 2017

An increased total dose of phosphorus (P dose) in the first 40 nm of a phosphorus diffused emitter has been measured after Low Temperature Annealing (LTA) at 700 °C using the Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectrometry technique. This evidence has been observed in three versions of the same emitter containing different amounts of initial phosphorus. A stepwise chemical etching of a diffused phosphorus emitter has been carried out to prepare the three types of samples. The total P dose in the first 40 nm increases during annealing by 1.4 × 1015 cm–2 for the sample with the highly doped emitter, by 0.8 × 1015 cm–2 in the middle-doped emitter, and by 0.5 × 1015 cm–2 in the lowest-doped emitter. The presence of surface dislocations in the first few nanometers of the phosphorus emitter might play a role as preferential sites of local phosphorus gettering in phosphorus re-distribution, because the phosphorus gettering to the first 40 nm is lower when this region is etched stepwise. This total increase in phosphorus takes place even though the calculated electrically active phosphorus concentration shows a reduction, and the measured sheet resistance shows an increase after annealing at a low temperature. The reduced electrically active P dose is around 0.6 × 1015 cm–2 for all the emitters. This can be explained with phosphorus-atoms diffusing towards the surface during annealing, occupying electrically inactive configurations. An atomic-scale visual local analysis is carried out with needle-shaped samples of tens of nm in diameter containing a region of the highly doped emitter before and after LTA using Atom Probe Tomography, showing phosphorus precipitates of 10 nm and less before annealing and an increased density of larger precipitates after annealing (25 nm and less).
Spectroscopic and theoretical studies on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of zinc octaethylporphyrin/C60 co-deposited films
Authors: Onoe Jun , Watanabe Shinta , Kato Shiro , Nakaya Masato , Bucher Jean-Pierre
Published: December 2017

We have examined the structural, electronic, and optical properties of zinc-octaethylporphyrin [Zn(OEP)]/C60 co-deposited films to elucidate the donor (D)–acceptor (A) interactions at the D/A interface of heterojunction organic solar cells (OSCs), using Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy in combination with first-principles and semi-empirical calculations. The FT-IR and XRD results indicated that Zn(OEP) and C60 were mixed with each other at the molecular level in the co-deposited film. The theoretical calculations suggested that in the interfacial region, it is energetically preferable for the C60 molecule to face the center of the planar structure of Zn(OEP) at a distance of 2.8 Å rather than the edge of the structure at a distance of 5.0 Å. After consideration of the C60 solvent effects, this coordination model for C60–Zn(OEP) adequately explained the line shift of the UV–vis peaks with respect to the proportion of C60 in the co-deposited films. A comparison of the energy level diagrams of Zn(OEP) before and after the interaction with C60 revealed that the LUMO, HOMO, and HOMO-1 were significantly affected by the interaction with C60. In particular, the HOMO-1 wave function became spread over a portion of C60, although the charge transfer between Zn(OEP) and C60 was almost negligible. Since no PL peaks (S1 → S0) from the excited Soret band of Zn(OEP) were observed for the Zn(OEP)/C60 co-deposited films, the D/A mixing layers played a crucial role in completely dissolving the photogenerated excitons to electrons-hole pairs that cause the short-circuit current, which is relevant to improving the energy conversion efficiency of OSCs.
Perspective: Highly stable vapor-deposited glasses
Authors: Ediger M. D.
Published: December 2017

This article describes recent progress in understanding highly stable glasses prepared by physical vapor deposition and provides perspective on further research directions for the field. For a given molecule, vapor-deposited glasses can have higher density and lower enthalpy than any glass that can be prepared by the more traditional route of cooling a liquid, and such glasses also exhibit greatly enhanced kinetic stability. Because vapor-deposited glasses can approach the bottom of the amorphous part of the potential energy landscape, they provide insights into the properties expected for the “ideal glass.” Connections between vapor-deposited glasses, liquid-cooled glasses, and deeply supercooled liquids are explored. The generality of stable glass formation for organic molecules is discussed along with the prospects for stable glasses of other types of materials.
Effects of oxide replacement with fluoride at the CoFeB interface on interface magnetic anisotropy and its voltage control
Authors: Pankieiev Mykhailo , Kita Koji
Published: December 2017

In this paper we report results of improving Co60Fe20B20 interface perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) by replacing neighbor oxide layer with fluoride one. We expected that fluorine as element with higher than oxide electronegativity could more effectively attract electrons from out-of-plane d orbitals of ferromagnetic, increasing role of in-plane orbitals. By this we wanted to increase PMA and its response to applied voltage bias. Polar magneto-optic Kerr effect measurement show decreasing of out-of-plane magnetic field needed to change magnetization to perpendicular in stacks with oxygen replaced by fluorine as well as increasing of coefficient of response to applied voltage α from < 10 fJ/Vm for CoFeB/Al2O3 interface to 20 fJ/Vm for CoFeB/AlF3/Al2O3 and 22 fJ/Vm for CoFeB/MgF2 stacks. Direct chemical interaction of Co with F was confirmed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurement of Co2p core level region. Moreover angular-resolved XPS showed that F tends to stay at CoFeB interface rather than diffuse out of it.
Baryon acoustic oscillations: A cosmological ruler
Authors: Percival Will J.
Published: December 2017

A density pattern created by acoustic waves in the early universe can be seen in the distribution of galaxies and used as a standard ruler with which to measure cosmological expansion.
DNA replication timing alterations identify common markers between distinct progeroid diseases
Authors: Rivera-Mulia Juan Carlos , Desprat Romain , Trevilla-Garcia Claudia , Cornacchia Daniela , Schwerer Hélène , Sasaki Takayo , Sima Jiao , Fells Tyler , Studer Lorenz , Lemaitre Jean-Marc , Gilbert David M.
Published: December 2017

Significance

We show that the temporal order of replication (replication timing, RT), normally an extremely stable cell type-specific chromosomal property, is altered in cells from two different premature aging (progeroid) diseases. By converting patient cells to stem cells and redifferentiating them as a model of disease progression, we identified the
TP63
gene as one of the earliest RT alterations and altered RT was associated with abnormal
TP63
gene expression.
TP63
mutations have been linked to other diseases that share clinical features of progeroid syndromes. These findings introduce an approach for disease marker discovery, identify molecular abnormalities distinguishing progeroid diseases from natural aging, and point to
TP63
as a molecular link to the pathophysiological manifestations of progeroid diseases.
Flourishing in a Second Language (FL2)
Authors: Strambi Antonella , Luzeckyj Ann , Rubino Antonia
Published: December 2017

This paper presents findings from the Flourishing in a Second Language (FL2) project – a language curriculum for first-year university students which integrates Positive Psychology (Seligman, 2002), Transition Pedagogy (Kift, 2009a), and CLIL principles (Coyle, 2006). The project aims to create learning experiences that are personally relevant, and that facilitate alignment between learners’ interests, linguistic goals, and cognitive challenges posed by the tasks, in order to increase the perceived value of language learning and sustain students’ motivation. More specifically, the project involves re-designing language learning activities typically found in beginners’ level classes, to include strategies and contents believed to facilitate transition, as well as enhance students’ psychological, emotional, and social wellbeing. In this paper, we evaluate the trial implementation of the FL2 activities integrated into the beginners’ curriculum at two different universities. Feedback obtained from language experts and practitioners in language education and Positive Psychology is also briefly discussed.
Association with explanation-conveying constructions predicts verbs’ implicit causality biases
Authors: Hoven Emiel van den , Ferstl Evelyn C.
Published: December 2017

Given a sentence such asMary fascinated/admired Sue because she did great, the verbfascinatedleads people to interpretsheas referring toMary, whereasadmiredleads people to interpretsheas referring toSue. This phenomenon is known as implicit causality (IC). Recent studies have shown that verbs’ causality biases closely correspond to the verbs’ semantic classes, as classified inVerbNet, a lexicon that groups verbs into classes on the basis of syntactic behavior. The current study further investigates the relationship between causality biases and semantic classes. Using corpus data we show that the collostruction strength between verbs and the syntactic constructions thatVerbNetclasses are based on can be a good predictor of causality bias. This result suggests that the relation between semantic class and causality bias is not a categorical matter; more typical members of the semantic class show a stronger causality bias than less typical members.
Aspects of anodic plasma electrolytic polishing of nitrided steel
Authors: Kusmanov Sergei , Zhirov Alexander , Kusmanova Irina , Belkin Pavel
Published: December 2017

Steel surface can be polished after its plasma electrolytic nitriding using the same electrolyser. Medium carbon steel is nitrided in the aqueous solution containing ammonium chloride and ammonium nitrate under stationary heating at 750°C for 5 min. The surface roughness is shown to decrease from 4.5 to 1.9 µm due to plasma electrolytic polishing during 2 min using the mode of current interruption without changing the structure of the diffusion layers.
Behind every Caesar a new one? Reflections on revolution and counter-revolution in Egypt in response to Gramsci on Tahrir
Authors: Alexander Anne , Naguib Sameh
Published: December 2017

Focusing on the political ramifications of the concepts and historical analysis deployed in Gramsci on Tahrir (De Smet 2016), Anne Alexander and Sameh Naguib challenge Brecht De Smet’s reading of the development of capitalism and the 2011 revolution in Egypt through the lens of Caesarism, offering an alternative perspective on how the theory of permanent revolution can be applied in the Egyptian case as a tool for understanding why a revolution erupted in 2011 and why it took the course it did.
Plant-derived isoprenoid sweeteners: recent progress in biosynthetic gene discovery and perspectives on microbial production
Authors: Seki Hikaru , Tamura Keita , Muranaka Toshiya
Published: December 2017

Increased public awareness of negative health effects associated with excess sugar consumption has triggered increasing interest in plant-derived natural sweeteners. Steviol glycosides are a group of highly sweet diterpene glycosides contained in the leaves of stevia (Stevia rebaudiana). Mogrosides, extracted from monk fruit (Siraitia grosvenorii), are a group of cucurbitane-type triterpenoid glycosides. Glycyrrhizin is an oleanane-type triterpenoid glycoside derived from the underground parts of Glycyrrhiza plants (licorice). This review focuses on the natural isoprenoid sweetening agents steviol glycosides, mogrosides, and glycyrrhizin, and describes recent progress in gene discovery and elucidation of the catalytic functions of their biosynthetic enzymes. Recently, remarkable progress has been made in engineering the production of various plant-specialized metabolites in microbial hosts such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae via the introduction of biosynthetic enzyme genes. Perspectives on the microbial production of plant-derived natural sweeteners are also discussed.
Neuroprotective effect of formononetin in ameliorating learning and memory impairment in mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Fei Hong-Xin , Zhang Ying-Bo , Liu Ting , Zhang Xiao-Jie , Wu Shu-Liang
Published: December 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia among elderly population. Deranged β-amyloid (Aβ) trafficking across the blood–brain barrier is known to be a critical element in the pathogenesis of AD. In the vascular endothelial cells of hippocampus, Aβ transport is mainly mediated by low-density lipoprotein-associated protein 1 (LRP1) and the receptor for advanced glycation end (RAGE) products; therefore, LRP1 and RAGE endothelial cells are potential therapeutic targets for AD. In this study, we explored the effects of Formononetin (FMN) on learning and memory improvement in APP/PS1 mice and the related mechanisms. We found that FMN significantly improved learning and memory ability by suppressing Aβ production from APP processing, RAGE-dependent inflammatory signaling and promoted LRP1-dependent cerebral Aβ clearance pathway. Moreover, FMN treatment alleviated ultrastructural changes in hippocampal vascular endothelial cells. In conclusion, we believe that FMN may be an efficacious and promising treatment for AD.
Purification and characterization of small and large rubber particles from Hevea brasiliensis
Authors: Yamashita Satoshi , Mizuno Makie , Hayashi Hidehiko , Yamaguchi Haruhiko , Miyagi-Inoue Yukino , Fushihara Kazuhisa , Koyama Tanetoshi , Nakayama Toru , Takahashi Seiji
Published: December 2017

Natural rubber (NR) is synthesized by the rubber transferase (RTase) on rubber particles (RPs) in latex. Due to the heterogeneity of the RPs in latex, it is difficult to precisely characterize the RTase activity. In this study, we separated the RPs of Hevea brasiliensis with different particle size distributions, via stepwise centrifugations. Analyses of protein compositions and size distributions of NR in the RPs suggest that RPs in Hevea latex can be categorized into two distinct subclasses, the larger RPs (termed 1kRP, 2kRP, and 8kRP) and the smaller RPs (termed 20kRP and 50kRP). Precise enzymatic assays using the RPs revealed that 50kRP showed the highest RTase activity, whereas the larger RPs, which had been regarded to have quite low activity, also exhibited a comparable activity to the smaller RPs. Immunological detections of cis-prenyltransferases in the RPs showed that the abundance of these enzymes correlates with the extent of RTase activity.
Characterization of cis-4-hydroxy-D-proline dehydrogenase from Sinorhizobium meliloti
Authors: Watanabe Seiya , Morimoto Daichi , Fukumori Fumiyasu , Watanabe Yasuo
Published: December 2017

The hypO gene from Sinorhizobium meliloti, located within the trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline metabolic gene cluster, was first successfully expressed in the host Pseudomonas putida. Purified HypO protein functioned as a FAD-containing cis-4-hydroxy-D-proline dehydrogenase with a homomeric structure. In contrast to other known enzymes, significant activity for D-proline was found, confirming a previously proposed potential involvement in D-proline metabolism.
Massive Iatrogenic Outbreak of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 in Rural Cambodia, 2014–2015
Authors: Rouet François , Nouhin Janin , Zheng Du-Ping , Roche Benjamin , Black Allison , Prak Sophearot , Leoz Marie , Gaudy-Graffin Catherine , Ferradini Laurent , Mom Chandara , Mam Sovatha , Gautier Charlotte , Lesage Gérard , Ken Sreymom , Phon Kerya , Kerleguer Alexandra , Yang Chunfu , Killam William , Fujita Masami , Mean Chhivun , Fontenille Didier , Barin Francis , Plantier Jean-Christophe , Bedford Trevor , Ramos Artur , Saphonn Vonthanak
Published: December 2017

Background

In 2014–2015, 242 individuals aged 2–89 years were newly diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in Roka, a rural commune in Cambodia. A case-control study attributed the outbreak to unsafe injections. We aimed to reconstruct the likely transmission history of the outbreak.

Methods

We assessed in 209 (86.4%) HIV-infected cases the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV). We identified recent infections using antibody (Ab) avidity testing for HIV and HCV. We performed amplification, sequencing, and evolutionary phylogenetic analyses of viral strains. Geographical coordinates and parenteral exposure through medical services provided by an unlicensed healthcare practitioner were obtained from 193 cases and 1499 controls during interviews.

Results

Cases were coinfected with HCV (78.5%) and HBV (12.9%). We identified 79 (37.8%) recent (<130 days) HIV infections. Phylogeny of 202 HIV env C2V3 sequences showed a 198-sample CRF01_AE strains cluster, with time to most recent common ancestor (tMRCA) in September 2013 (95% highest posterior density, August 2012–July 2014), and a peak of 15 infections/day in September 2014. Three geospatial HIV hotspots were discernible in Roka and correlated with high exposure to the practitioner (P = .04). Fifty-nine of 153 (38.6%) tested cases showed recent (<180 days) HCV infections. Ninety HCV NS5B sequences formed 3 main clades, 1 containing 34 subtypes 1b with tMRCA in 2012, and 2 with 51 subtypes 6e and tMRCAs in 2002–2003.

Conclusions

Unsafe injections in Cambodia most likely led to an explosive iatrogenic spreading of HIV, associated with a long-standing and more genetically diverse HCV propagation.
Testing the Implementation of the Veder Contact Method: A Theatre-Based Communication Method in Dementia Care
Authors: Boersma Petra , van Weert Julia C M , Lissenberg-Witte Birgit I , van Meijel Berno , Dröes Rose-Marie
Published: December 2017

Background and Objectives

There is a lack of research on implementation of person-centered care in nursing home care. The purpose of this study was to assess the implementation of the Veder contact method (VCM), a new person-centered method using theatrical, poetic and musical communication for application in 24-hr care.

Research Design and Methods

Caregivers (n = 136) and residents (n = 141) participated in a 1-year quasi-experimental study. Foundation Theater Veder implemented VCM on six experimental wards and rated implementation quality. Six control wards delivered care-as-usual. Before and after implementation, caregiver behavior was assessed during observations using the Veder-observation list and Quality of Caregivers’ Behavior-list. Caregiver attitude was rated with the Approaches to Dementia Questionnaire. Quality of life, behavior, and mood of the residents were measured with QUALIDEM, INTERACT and FACE. Residents’ care plans were examined for person-centered background information.

Results

Significant improvements in caregivers’ communicative behavior (i.e., the ability to apply VCM, establishing positive interactions) and some aspects of residents’ behavior and quality of life (i.e., positive affect, social relations) were found on the experimental wards with a high implementation score, as compared to the experimental wards with a low implementation score, and the control wards. No significant differences were found between the groups in caregivers’ attitudes, residents’ care plans, or mood.

Discussion and Implications

The positive changes in caregivers’ behavior and residents’ well-being on the high implementation score wards confirm the partly successful VCM implementation. Distinguishing between wards with a high and low implementation score provided insight into factors which are crucial for successful implementation.
“Real-time” genetic monitoring of a commercial fishery on the doorstep of an MPA reveals unique insights into the interaction between coastal and migratory forms of the Atlantic cod
Authors: Johansen Torild , Westgaard Jon-Ivar , Seliussen Bjørghild B , Nedreaas Kjell , Dahle Geir , Glover Kevin A , Kvalsund Roger , Aglen Asgeir
Published: December 2017

With the decline of many of the world’s fisheries, increased regulation, including marine protected areas (MPA), forms an increasingly important role in promoting sustainable resource use. Here, we present a novel “real-time” genetic monitoring programme used to protect the depleted Norwegian coastal cod stock (NCC) in an MPA during the spawning season, while a fishery targeted at the sustainable Northeast Arctic cod stock (NEAC) operates immediately outside. In the period 2009–2016, >6800 cod from the fishery were genotyped with the PanI locus that is discriminatory between these two stocks. The estimated fraction of NEAC increased during the study period until 2014; however, it did not exceed 70% for any sustained period. Therefore, the MPA remained closed for commercial harvest. Genetic analysis of eggs revealed a distinctly lower fraction of NEAC than in the catch from the adult stock, both immediately outside and within the MPA itself. We suggest that this discrepancy is likely to reflect differences in spawning areas used by NCC and NEAC. Estimated fractions of NEAC/NCC using PanI, otolith classification, and 39 single nucleotide polymorphisms were similar, thus validating the use of PanI to estimate NEAC/NCC composition.