bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dopamine D1 receptor activation leads to object recognition memory in a coral reef fish
Authors: Hamilton Trevor J. , Tresguerres Martin , Kline David I.
Published: July 2017

Object recognition memory is the ability to identify previously seen objects and is an adaptive mechanism that increases survival for many species throughout the animal kingdom. Previously believed to be possessed by only the highest order mammals, it is now becoming clear that fish are also capable of this type of memory formation. Similar to the mammalian hippocampus, the dorsolateral pallium regulates distinct memory processes and is modulated by neurotransmitters such as dopamine. Caribbean bicolour damselfish (
Stegastes partitus
) live in complex environments dominated by coral reef structures and thus likely possess many types of complex memory abilities including object recognition. This study used a novel object recognition test in which fish were first presented two identical objects, then after a retention interval of 10 min with no objects, the fish were presented with a novel object and one of the objects they had previously encountered in the first trial. We demonstrate that the dopamine D
1
-receptor agonist (SKF 38393) induces the formation of object recognition memories in these fish. Thus, our results suggest that dopamine-receptor mediated enhancement of spatial memory formation in fish represents an evolutionarily conserved mechanism in vertebrates.
A biomimetic semisynthesis enables structural elucidation of selaginellin U: a tautomeric cyclic alkynylphenol fromSelaginella tamariscina
Authors: Zhu Qin-Feng , Bao Ying , Zhang Zhi-Jun , Su Jia , Shao Li-Dong , Zhao Qin-Shi
Published: July 2017

Two new lactone-containing selaginellins T and U (1and2) together with eleven known selaginellin derivatives (3and7–16) were isolated from the whole plant ofSelaginella tamariscina. The structure of tautomeric selaginellin U along with its biogenetic pathway was confirmed and proposed by a cross-validation of the semisynthesis of compound4from selaginellin (3) and derivation from2to4. Additionally, compounds3,13and16exhibited good inhibitory activities against β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) with IC50values of 81.17, 51.13 and 48.89 µM, respectively.
Multimodal Sensorimotor System in Unicellular Zoospores of a Fungus
Authors: Swafford Andrew J.M. , Oakley Todd H.
Published: July 2017

Complex sensory suites often underlie critical behaviors, including avoiding predators or locating prey, mates, and shelter. Multisensory systems that control motor behavior even appear in unicellular eukaryotes, such asChlamydomonas, which are important laboratory models for sensory biology. However, we know of no unicellular opisthokont models that control motor behavior using a multimodal sensory suite. Therefore, existing single-celled models for multimodal sensorimotor integration are very distantly related to animals. Here, we describe a multisensory system that controls the motor function of unicellular, fungal zoospores. We find zoospores ofAllomyces arbusculusexhibit both phototaxis and chemotaxis. While swimming, they move towards light and settle on cellulose membranes exuding combinations of amino acids. Furthermore, we report that closely relatedAllomycesspecies do not share this multisensory system. Instead, each possesses only one of the two modalities present inA. arbusculus. This diversity of sensory suites withinAllomycesprovides a rare example of a comparative framework that can be used to examine the evolution of sensory suites. The tractability ofAllomycesand related fungi as laboratory organisms will allow detailed mechanistic investigations into how sensory systems may have functioned in early opisthokonts before multicellularity allowed for the evolution of specialized cell types.

Summary Statement

Zoospores’ ability to detect light or chemical gradients varies withinAllomyces.Here, we report a multimodal sensory system controlling behavior in a fungus, and previously unknown variation in zoospore sensory suites.
Are the adverse effects of stressors on amphibians mediated by their effects on stress hormones?
Authors: Gabor Caitlin R. , Knutie Sarah A. , Roznik Elizabeth A. , Rohr Jason R.
Published: July 2017

Adverse effects of anthropogenic changes on biodiversity might be mediated by their impacts on the stress response of organisms. To test this hypothesis we crossed exposure to metyrapone, a synthesis inhibitor of the stress hormone corticosterone, with exposure to the herbicide atrazine and the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) to assess whether the effects of these stressors on tadpoles and post-metamorphic frogs were mediated by corticosterone. Metyrapone countered atrazine-and Bd-induced corticosterone elevations. However, atrazine-and Bd-induced reductions in body size were not mediated by corticosterone because they persisted despite metyrapone exposure. Atrazine lowered Bd abundance without metyrapone but increased Bd abundance with metyrapone for tadpoles and frogs. In contrast, atrazine reduced tolerance of Bd infections because frogs exposed to atrazine as tadpoles had reduced growth with Bd compared to solvent controls; this effect was not countered by metyrapone. Our results suggest that the adverse effects of atrazine and Bd on amphibian growth, development, and tolerance of infection are not mediated primarily by corticosterone. Instead, these effects are likely a function of energy lost from atrazine detoxification, defense against Bd, or repair from damage caused by atrazine and Bd. Additional studies are needed to evaluate how often the effects of anthropogenic stressors are mediated by stress hormones.
A temperature gradient may support mother‐infant thermal identification and communication in the breast crawl from birth to breastfeeding
Authors: Zanardo Vincenzo , Volpe Francesca , de Luca Federico , Straface Gianluca
Published: July 2017

Aim

The human female's nipple‐areolar complex (NAC) is the point of arrival of a natural progression from birth to breastfeeding, linked to functional, chemical and biophysical cues that promote the breast crawl soon after birth. We investigated the thermal gradient generated by the lips of the neonate and warmth of the NAC, which may drive the infant directly to the nipple.

Methods

We prospectively studied 41 full‐term singleton infants and their mothers at the Policlinico Abano Terme, Italy, between January 1, 2015, and February 28, 2015. NAC and breast quadrant temperatures were assessed 6 ± 2 hours prepartum and one and two days postpartum, together with the neonates’ lip temperature.

Results

The temperature of the neonates’ lips was significantly lower than the forehead temperature on days one and two postpartum (delta = −1.24°C, p < 0.001 and delta = −1.02°C, p < 0.001, respectively). Thus, the thermal gradient between the NAC and the neonates’ lips was −1.66 ± 1.07°C on day one (p < 0.001) and −1.68 ± 0.63°C (p < 0.001) on day two postpartum.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate, for the first time, that a temperature gradient may support mother‐infant thermal identification and communication in the breast crawl and in the natural progression of the continuum from birth to breastfeeding.
Appropriateness of antiplatelet therapy for primary and secondary cardio‐ and cerebrovascular prevention in acutely hospitalized older people
Authors: Ardoino Ilaria , Rossio Raffaella , Di Blanca Donnatella , Nobili Alessandro , Pasina Luca , Mannucci Pier Mannuccio , Peyvandi Flora , Franchi Carlotta ,   on behalf of the REPOSI Investigators
Published: July 2017

Aims

Antiplatelet therapy is recommended for the secondary prevention of cardio‐ and cerebrovascular disease, but for primary prevention it is advised only in patients at very high risk. With this background, this study aims to assess the appropriateness of antiplatelet therapy in acutely hospitalized older people according to their risk profile.

Methods

Data were obtained from the REPOSI register held in Italian and Spanish internal medicine and geriatric wards in 2012 and 2014. Hospitalized patients aged ≥65 assessable at discharge were selected. Appropriateness of the antiplatelet therapy was evaluated according to their primary or secondary cardiovascular prevention profiles.

Results

Of 2535 enrolled patients, 2199 were assessable at discharge. Overall 959 (43.6%, 95% CI 41.5–45.7) were prescribed an antiplatelet drug, aspirin being the most frequently chosen. Among patients prescribed for primary prevention, just over half were inappropriately prescribed (52.1%), being mainly overprescribed (155/209 patients, 74.2%). On the other hand, there was also a high rate of inappropriate underprescription in the context of secondary prevention (222/726 patients, 30.6%, 95% CI 27.3–34.0%).

Conclusions

This study carried out in acutely hospitalized older people shows a high degree of inappropriate prescription among patients prescribed with antiplatelets for primary prevention, mainly due to overprescription. Further, a large proportion of patients who had had overt cardio‐ or cerebrovascular disease were underprescribed, in spite of the established benefits of antiplatelet drugs in the context of secondary prevention.
Review: The impact of pediatric mental health care provided outpatient, primary care, community and school settings on emergency department use – a systematic review
Authors: Kirkland Scott W. , Soleimani Amir , Newton Amanda S.
Published: July 2017

Background

Increases in emergency department (ED) visits for pediatric mental health care point to a need to understand the impact of mental health services in relation to emergency‐based care. This systematic review examined the impact of mental health services delivered in outpatient, primary care, community and/or school settings on ED use and costs for ED‐based mental health care.

Method

Two electronic databases and gray literature were searched. Eligible studies consisted of randomized/controlled clinical trials or cohort studies examining the effects of mental health services on ED use and costs for this care. Two reviewers independently screened the studies for relevance and study quality. Relative risks (RR), risk differences (RD), or mean differences (MD) were calculated for each study's primary outcome with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Meta‐analysis was deferred due to substantial heterogeneity.

Results

Six studies were included. Overall risk of bias in the studies ranged from low, unclear, to high. The majority of programs had no effect on ED visits for mental health care. A school‐based program was found to reduce the risk of ED visits for any reason during use (RD, −8.0%; 95% CI: −15.2%, −0.9%); however, these visits were not specific to mental health. Three studies examined costs. A wrap‐around clinical management program was associated with higher average ED costs per patient per month ($20.07 US dollars) compared to usual outpatient care; other studies reported no cost differences.

Conclusions

At this time, there is limited evidence to suggest outpatient, primary care, community and/or school‐based mental health services impact ED use and costs for mental health care. Additional studies are needed.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of exercise: role in diabetes and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Pedersen Bente Klarlund
Published: July 2017

Background

Persistent inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Aims

The aim of this review was to provide the reader with an update of the mechanisms whereby exercise‐induced cytokines may impact cardiometabolic diseases.

Results

Evidence exists that interleukin (IL)‐1β is involved in pancreatic β‐cell damage, whereas TNF‐α is a key molecule in peripheral insulin resistance. In addition, TNF‐α appears to be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and heart failure. A marked increase in IL‐6 and IL‐10 is provoked by exercise and exerts direct anti‐inflammatory effects by an inhibition of TNF‐α and by stimulating IL‐1ra, thereby limiting IL‐1β signalling. Moreover, muscle‐derived IL‐6 appears to have direct anti‐inflammatory effects and serves as a mechanism to improve glucose tolerance. In addition, indirect anti‐inflammatory effects of long‐term exercise are mediated via improvements in body composition.

Conclusion

Physical activity represents a natural, strong anti‐inflammatory strategy with minor side effects and should be integrated in the management of patients with cardiometabolic diseases.
Immunophenotypic aberrancies in acute lymphoblastic leukemia from 282 Iraqi patients
Authors: Jalal S. D. , Al‐Allawi N. A. S. , Al Doski A. A. S.
Published: July 2017

Introduction

The identification of aberrancies in leukemia‐associated immunophenotype (LAIP) of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is quite important in the assessment of minimal residual disease (MRD). This study, the first from Iraq, aimed to assess the frequency and patterns of LAIP among Iraqi patients with ALL, to establish future strategies for evaluating MRD.

Methods

A total of 282 newly diagnosed Iraqi ALL cases were analyzed with six‐parameter flow cytometry using a panel of 29 monoclonal antibodies.

Results

Immunological subtyping revealed that 85.5% of cases were B‐ALL and the remainder T‐ALL. LAIP was detected in 97.1% of B‐ALL, and in 26.8% of T‐ALL. The asynchronous maturation‐associated antigen patterns in B‐ALL were CD10strong+/TdTdim+, CD38dim+/CD34+, CD10dim+/CD34+, CD10strong/CD20strong+, CD20strong+/CD34+, and CD45dim+/CD20strong+ in 84.6%, while the cross‐lineage myeloid expression was seen in 81.3% and aberrant T‐cell antigen expression in 6.2%. For T‐ALL, asynchronous maturation‐associated antigen patterns included the following: CD1a+/CD5+/sCD3+ and CD34+/sCD3+ in 12.2%. Myeloid and B‐cell antigen expression were each identified in 7.3% of T‐ALL. No significant differences in LAIP were found between children and adults.

Conclusion

The high rates and the patterns of LAIP particularly in Iraqi B‐ALL patients may allow the development of more cost‐effective strategies for MRD monitoring.
Cross, Contestation and Consummation: An Engagement with Ted Peters’ God – The World's Future
Authors: Hinlicky Paul R.
Published: July 2017

The third edition of Peters’ systematic theology provides an opportunity to assess his contextual theology, descended from Tillich's ‘method of correlation’, from the perspective of my own textual theology, descended from Karl Barth's revelation theology, on the common ground of a shared Trinitarianism and positive retrieval of the twentieth‐century's rediscovery of the New Testament eschatology. The article affirms Peters’ sharply focused cognitive claim to truth about God as the world's future, but asks a series of questions about how this claim is actually sustained in Peters’ capacious work. It concludes with the ‘apocalyptic’ judgement that Peters’ ‘progressive’ method is not fully adequate to the challenge of our present spiritual situation.
When Father Steps Forward and Mother Steps Back: The Moderating Role of Simultaneity in Parents' Coparenting Behaviors in the Development of Anxiety in 4‐ to 30‐Month‐Olds
Authors: Metz Marijke , Colonnesi Cristina , Majdandžić Mirjana , Bögels Susan M.
Published: July 2017

Infant negative affectivity predicts child anxiety. Coparenting might influence the development of anxiety by weakening this association in the case of supportive coparenting, or by strengthening this association in the case of undermining coparenting. Parents can display coparenting behaviors simultaneously (both parents being supportive or undermining), or divergently (only one parent being supportive or undermining). In our longitudinal study, we investigated whether coparenting moderated the relation between infant negative affectivity at 4 months and child anxiety symptoms 2 years later. Hundred‐sixteen couples dressed up their firstborn infants in a clothes‐changing task. We coded cooperative, mutual, neutral, and competitive coparenting behaviors. Both parents rated infant negative affectivity and child anxiety symptoms. Infant negative affectivity significantly predicted child anxiety. This association was moderated by parents' divergent cooperative coparenting: It was stronger when mothers were cooperative while fathers were neutral, and weaker when fathers were cooperative while mothers were neutral. When fathers step forward (i.e., being cooperative) and mothers step back (i.e., leaving space), they may protect their at‐risk child from developing anxiety.
Managerial ability and bank‐loan pricing
Authors: De Franco Gus , Hope Ole‐Kristian , Lu Haihao
Published: July 2017

This paper examines the impact of borrowers’ managerial ability on lenders’ bank‐loan pricing and the channels through which managerial ability affects bank‐loan pricing. Using a large sample of US bank loans, we provide evidence that higher managerial ability is associated with lower bank‐loan prices. This effect is stronger in firms with high information risk, suggesting that an important channel for managerial ability to affect bank‐loan pricing is through improved financial disclosure to mitigate information asymmetry. The relationship is also stronger for firms with weak business fundamentals, implying that another channel is through improved business performance. Of these two mechanisms, path analysis suggests that the business‐fundamentals mechanism is the more important channel through which managerial ability affects bank‐loan pricing.
Hepatitis C virus and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9: a detrimental interaction to increase viral infectivity and disrupt lipid metabolism
Authors: Pirro Matteo , Bianconi Vanessa , Francisci Daniela , Schiaroli Elisabetta , Bagaglia Francesco , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Baldelli Franco
Published: July 2017

From viral binding to the hepatocyte surface to extracellular virion release, the replication cycle of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) intersects at various levels with lipid metabolism; this leads to a derangement of the lipid profile and to increased viral infectivity. Accumulating evidence supports the crucial regulatory role of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in lipoprotein metabolism. Notably, a complex interaction between HCV and PCSK9 has been documented. Indeed, either increased or reduced circulating PCSK9 levels have been observed in HCV patients; this discrepancy might be related to several confounders, including HCV genotype, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection and the ambiguous HCV‐mediated influence on PCSK9 transcription factors. On the other hand, PCSK9 may itself influence HCV infectivity, inasmuch as the expression of different hepatocyte surface entry proteins and receptors is regulated by PCSK9. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence about the complex interaction between HCV and liver lipoprotein metabolism, with a specific focus on PCSK9. The underlying assumption of this review is that the interconnections between HCV and PCSK9 may be central to explain viral infectivity.
Plastic deformation mechanisms in a new Ni‐base single crystal superalloy at room temperature
Authors: ZHANG P. , YUAN Y. , GAO Z. , LI B. , YANG G. , SONG X.
Published: July 2017

The evolution of dislocation configurations in a new Ni‐base single crystal superalloy, M4706, during tensile deformation at room temperature is characterised by transmission electron microscopy. Experimental results show that contrary to previous reports, numerous isolated superlattice stacking faults and extended stacking faults are formed in the slightly deformed specimens with and without tertiary γ′ precipitates. Meanwhile, it is also found that as the plastic deformation proceeds, the dominant deformation mechanism changes from stacking fault shearing to antiphase boundary shearing. Finally, based on experimental observations, the reasons for the formation of these faults and the transition in the deformation mechanism are discussed.
A meta‐ethnographic synthesis of midwives’ and nurses’ experiences of adverse labour and birth events
Authors: Elmir Rakime , Pangas Jackie , Dahlen Hannah , Schmied Virginia
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Health professionals are frequently exposed to traumatic events due to the nature of their work. While traumatic and adverse labour and birth events experienced by women are well researched, less attention has been given to midwives’ and nurses’ experiences of these events and the impact it has on their lives.

Aims and objectives

To undertake a meta‐ethnographic study of midwives’ and nurses’ experiences of adverse labour and birth events.

Methods

Scopus, CINHAL PLUS, MEDLINE and PUBMED databases were searched using subject headings and keywords. The search was limited to papers published in peer‐reviewed journals from 2004–October 2016. Quality appraisal was undertaken using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool.

Inclusion criteria

Papers had to be qualitative or have a substantial qualitative component. Studies were included if they primarily focused on midwives’ or nurses’ perspectives or experiences of complicated, traumatic or adverse labour and birth events.

Analytic strategy

A meta‐ethnographic approach was used incorporating methods of reciprocal translation guided by the work of Noblit and Hare (1988, Meta‐Ethnography: Synthesizing qualitative studies (Vol. 11). Newbury Park: Sage publications).

Findings

Eleven qualitative studies were included in the final sample. Four major themes were (i) feeling the chaos; (ii) powerless, responsible and a failure; (iii) “It adds another scar to my soul”; and (iv) finding a way to deal with it.

Conclusion

Midwives and nurses feel relatively unprepared when faced with a real‐life labour and birth emergency event. While many of the midwives and nurses were traumatised by the experience, some were able to view their encounter as an opportunity to develop their emergency response skills.

Relevance to clinical practice

Witnessing and being involved in a complicated or adverse labour and birth event can be traumatic for nurses and midwives. Organisational and collegial support needs to be available to enable these health professionals to talk about their feelings and concerns.
“Promoting continuity of care”—Specialist nurses’ role experiences in gynaecological oncology: A qualitative study
Authors: Kobleder Andrea , Mayer Hanna , Gehrig Larissa , Senn Beate
Published: July 2017

Aims and objectives

To investigate the experiences of specialist nurses in Switzerland concerning their role of caring for women with gynaecological cancer.

Background

Women with gynaecological cancer often face complex situations, which require an integrative and quality‐assured approach by the healthcare system. Specialist nurses can play an important role in supporting these patients. However, in countries where the role of specialist nurses is at a developmental stage, their role lacks clarity.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design was chosen to gain insights into experiences of specialist nurses who care for women with gynaecological cancer.

Methods

We conducted three focus groups with 12 specialist nurses to access their experiences with regard to their role. Thematic qualitative text analysis was used to interpret the results.

Results

Divided into six main themes, the study results describe specialist nurses’ (1) current and (2) aspired role. (A) Counselling, (B) guidance, (C) key contact person and (D) team support are relevant themes in their current role. The themes (E) provision of resources and (F) extended knowledge are relevant to their aspired role. Within their current and aspired roles, the specialist nurses’ scope of practice is defined as “promoting continuity of care.”

Conclusions

The results indicate aspects of specialist nurses’ current and aspired roles. Detailed role descriptions and legal requirements are necessary to further support nurses towards an extended and specialised practice. In the context of gynaecological cancer survivors, services should be developed, where specialist nurses can play an important role in providing continuous care.

Relevance to clinical practice

To support implementation of specialist nursing in clinical practice, resources have to be mobilised and role descriptions should be provided. By creating an appropriate framework, the specialist nurse can turn into an important support for women with gynaecological cancer, in addition to current healthcare services.
Gravitropism interferes with hydrotropism via counteracting auxin dynamics in cucumber roots: clinorotation and spaceflight experiments
Authors: Morohashi Keita , Okamoto Miki , Yamazaki Chiaki , Fujii Nobuharu , Miyazawa Yutaka , Kamada Motoshi , Kasahara Haruo , Osada Ikuko , Shimazu Toru , Fusejima Yasuo , Higashibata Akira , Yamazaki Takashi , Ishioka Noriaki , Kobayashi Akie , Takahashi Hideyuki
Published: July 2017

Roots of land plants show gravitropism and hydrotropism in response to gravity and moisture gradients, respectively, for controlling their growth orientation. Gravitropism interferes with hydrotropism, although the mechanistic aspects are poorly understood.

Here, we differentiated hydrotropism from gravitropism in cucumber roots by conducting clinorotation and spaceflight experiments. We also compared mechanisms regulating hydrotropism and auxin‐regulated gravitropism.

Clinorotated or microgravity (μG)‐grown cucumber seedling roots hydrotropically bent toward wet substrate in the presence of moisture gradients, but they grew straight in the direction of normal gravitational force at the Earth's surface (1G) on the ground or centrifuge‐generated 1G in space. The roots appeared to become hydrotropically more sensitive to moisture gradients under μG conditions in space. Auxin transport inhibitors significantly reduced the hydrotropic response of clinorotated seedling roots. The auxin efflux protein CsPIN5 was differentially expressed in roots of both clinorotated and μG‐grown seedlings; with higher expression in the high‐humidity (concave) side than the low‐humidity (convex) side of hydrotropically responding roots.

Our results suggest that roots become hydrotropically sensitive in μG, and CsPIN5‐mediated auxin transport has an important role in inducing root hydrotropism. Thus, hydrotropic and gravitropic responses in cucumber roots may compete via differential auxin dynamics established in response to moisture gradients and gravity.
The Human Rights Torture Novel
Authors: Nayar Pramod K.
Published: July 2017

This essay examines a subgenre of the Human Rights novel, the torture novel, devoted to the social ontology of the human. In theHRtorture novel embodiment is rendered ‘abject’ and the subject ‘unmade’, through dehumanization and debasement. The abject embodiment is the consequence of institutional precarity and collapsing social apparatuses. Tortured subjects acquire membership of a collective memory of pain, a trauma‐memory citizenship, made possible through the articulation of memories of torture, bringing together fellow sufferers, former perpetrators and witnesses.The essay concludes that the torture novel is integral to the project of Human Rights because it demonstrates how broken bodies are produced in eroding social conditions, driven by state policy, state indifference or state oppression.
UV‐B irradiation differentially regulates terpene synthases and terpene content of peach
Authors: Liu Hongru , Cao Xiangmei , Liu Xiaohong , Xin Rui , Wang Jiaojiao , Gao Jie , Wu Boping , Gao Liuxiao , Xu Changjie , Zhang Bo , Grierson Donald , Chen Kunsong
Published: July 2017

Plants generate protective molecules in response to ultraviolet (UV) light. In laboratory experiments, 48 h UV‐B irradiation of peach fruits and leaves reduced the flavour‐related monoterpene linalool by 60%. No isoprene was detected, but other terpenoids increased significantly, including a threefold accumulation of the sesquiterpene (E,E)‐α‐farnesene, which was also increased by jasmonic acid treatment. RNA sequencing revealed altered transcript levels for two terpene synthases (TPSs): PpTPS1, a TPS‐g subfamily member, decreased by 86% and PpTPS2, a TPS‐b subfamily member, increased 80‐fold. Heterologous expression in Escherichia coli and transient overexpression in tobacco and peach fruits showed PpTPS1 was localized in plastids and associated with production of linalool, while PpTPS2 was responsible for (E,E)‐α‐farnesene biosynthesis in the cytoplasm. Candidate regulatory genes for these responses were identified. Commercial peach production in Asia involves fruit bagging to maintain marketable yield and quality. TPS gene expression and volatile terpenoid production in field experiments, using bags transmitting high UV‐B radiation, showed similar effects on peach volatiles to those from laboratory experiments. Bags transmitting less UV‐B light ameliorated the reduction in the flavour volatile linalool, indicating that flavour components of peach fruits can be modulated by selecting an appropriate source of environmental screening material.
Treatment evaluation using lung sound analysis in asthmatic children
Authors: Habukawa Chizu , Murakami Katsumi , Endoh Mitsuru , Horii Noriaki , Nagasaka Yukio
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

Non‐invasive assessment of treatment and prediction of attacks in asthmatic children do not yet exist. Lung sound analysis can non‐invasively evaluate airway obstruction. We used a recently developed technology for analysing lung sounds using ic700 (index of the chest wall at 700 Hz, sound intensity at 700 Hz) to evaluate response to inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) in asthmatic children.

Method

Seventy asthmatic children, including infants, underwent lung sound recording in the asymptomatic state prior to and 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after ICS treatment, and asthma control was assessed at 10 weeks. The ic700 scores at 4, 6 and 8 weeks were compared with the presence of attack during the following 2 weeks. Subjects were divided into uncontrolled and well‐controlled groups.

Results

The mean ic700 scores of all subjects significantly reduced after 8 weeks of treatment. The mean scores of the uncontrolled group were significantly higher than those of the well‐controlled group at 4, 6 and 8 weeks after starting treatment. The ic700 cut‐off value for predicting asthma attacks within 2 weeks following the evaluation was set at 0.0. After 6 weeks of treatment, the area under the curve was 0.92 ± 0.04; the sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values were 83%, 88% and 88% and 84%, respectively. Similar results were observed at 4 and 8 weeks.

Conclusion

The ic700 score is useful in assessing the effects of ICS treatment, predicting attack symptoms and identifying asymptomatic asthmatic children at a high risk for asthma attack.
Beyond the Known: Detecting Novel Feasible Domains Over an Unbounded Design Space
Authors: Chen Wei , Fuge Mark
Published: July 2017

To solve a design problem, sometimes it is necessary to identify the feasible design space. For design spaces with implicit constraints, sampling methods are usually used. These methods typically bound the design space; that is, limit the range of design variables. But bounds that are too small will fail to cover all possible designs, while bounds that are too large will waste sampling budget. This paper tries to solve the problem of efficiently discovering (possibly disconnected) feasible domains in an unbounded design space. We propose a data-driven adaptive sampling technique—ε-margin sampling, which learns the domain boundary of feasible designs and also expands our knowledge on the design space as available budget increases. This technique is data-efficient, in that it makes principled probabilistic trade-offs between refining existing domain boundaries versus expanding the design space. We demonstrate that this method can better identify feasible domains on standard test functions compared to both random and active sampling (via uncertainty sampling). However, a fundamental problem when applying adaptive sampling to real world designs is that designs often have high dimensionality and thus require (in the worst case) exponentially more samples per dimension. We show how coupling design manifolds with ε-margin sampling allows us to actively expand high-dimensional design spaces without incurring this exponential penalty. We demonstrate this on real-world examples of glassware and bottle design, where our method discovers designs that have different appearance and functionality from its initial design set.
A Convolutional Neural Network Model for Predicting a Product's Function, Given Its Form
Authors: Dering Matthew L. , Tucker Conrad S.
Published: July 2017

Quantifying the ability of a digital design concept to perform a function currently requires the use of costly and intensive solutions such as computational fluid dynamics. To mitigate these challenges, the authors of this work propose a deep learning approach based on three-dimensional (3D) convolutions that predict functional quantities of digital design concepts. This work defines the term functional quantity to mean a quantitative measure of an artifact's ability to perform a function. Several research questions are derived from this work: (i) Are learned 3D convolutions able to accurately calculate these quantities, as measured by rank, magnitude, and accuracy? (ii) What do the latent features (that is, internal values in the model) discovered by this network mean? (iii) Does this work perform better than other deep learning approaches at calculating functional quantities? In the case study, a proposed network design is tested for its ability to predict several functions (sitting, storing liquid, emitting sound, displaying images, and providing conveyance) based on test form classes distinct from training class. This study evaluates several approaches to this problem based on a common architecture, with the best approach achieving F scores of >0.9 in three of the five functions identified. Testing trained models on novel input also yields accuracy as high as 98% for estimating rank of these functional quantities. This method is also employed to differentiate between decorative and functional headwear, which yields an 84.4% accuracy and 0.786 precision.
Robust Resource Allocation for Calibration and Validation Tests
Authors: Li Chenzhao , Mahadevan Sankaran
Published: July 2017

Model calibration and validation are two activities in system model development, and both of them make use of test data. Limited testing budget creates the challenge of test resource allocation, i.e., how to optimize the number of calibration and validation tests to be conducted. Test resource allocation is conducted before any actual test is performed, and therefore needs to use synthetic data. This paper develops a test resource allocation methodology to make the system response prediction “robust” to test outcome, i.e., insensitive to the variability in test outcome; therefore, consistent system response predictions can be achieved under different test outcomes. This paper analyzes the uncertainty sources in the generation of synthetic data regarding different test conditions, and concludes that the robustness objective can be achieved if the contribution of model parameter uncertainty in the synthetic data can be maximized. Global sensitivity analysis (Sobol’ index) is used to assess this contribution, and to formulate an optimization problem to achieve the desired consistent system response prediction. A simulated annealing algorithm is applied to solve this optimization problem. The proposed method is suitable either when only model calibration tests are considered or when both calibration and validation tests are considered. Two numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the proposed approach.
Rail Cleaning Process and its Influence on Locomotive Performance
Authors: Spiryagin Maksym , Wolfs Peter , Wu Qing , Cole Colin , Alahakoon Sanath , Sun Yan Quan , McSweeney Tim , Spiryagin Valentyn
Published: July 2017

The traction performance of a locomotive under real operational conditions is strongly dependent on friction conditions present at the wheel-rail interface. The tribology of the contact process changes during the locomotive running process and the conditions are not ideal due to the presence of a third body layer between wheels and rails. This leads to the complexities of the non-linear wheel-rail contact. To describe this system correctly, the real working conditions need to be known. The exact conditions are both complex and vary with location because of the potential presence of additional contamination material. The realization of high adhesion under traction or braking assumes that a locomotive produces a high slip that removes some of the third body material in the contact and this effect leads to an increase in values of friction coefficient from the leading to each subsequent following wheel on each side of the bogie. The resulting friction change can improve the tractive effort of a locomotive that is a key issue for railway operations. In this paper, the change of friction coefficients under traction are investigated by means of engineering analysis and some assumptions have been stated to generate input parameters for wheel-rail contact modelling in order to understand the influence of this rail cleaning process on locomotive dynamics. The assumptions made allow adopting a progressive increase of friction coefficient under an analytical assumption for each wheel. The multibody model of a high adhesion locomotive that includes a traction system has been developed in a specialized multibody software. The results obtained show the changes in dynamic behavior of a locomotive and indicate the influence on traction performance.
Internet of Things (IoT)-Based Apparatus and Method for Rail Crossing Alerting of Static or Dynamic Rail Track Intrusions
Authors: Minoli Daniel , Occhiogrosso Benedict
Published: July 2017

This paper deals with Physical Safety and Security at rail crossings. There are about 150,000 public railroad grade crossings in the U.S. Unfortunately, approximately 2,000 accidents occur every year in the U.S., resulting not only in many injuries, but also in over 200 deaths annually. The predicament is that for various reasons, people, cars, and trucks find themselves on the rail tracks of an oncoming train at a railroad crossing. The system discussed in this paper provides a relatively inexpensive Internet of Things (IoT)-based capability that can be used to alert a rail operator that there is an obstruction on the tracks, and/or possibly to interwork with (but not replace) a Positive Train Control (PTC) system thus attempting to automatically stop an incoming train. In fact, IoT is now being deployed in railroads for a variety of applications. A brief description of cybersecurity issues related to IoT deployment is also included.
Nucleation of Cu2Te layer by a closed space sublimation method toward the growth of Te based chalcopyrite
Authors: Sakurakawa Yohei , Uruno Aya , Kobayashi Masakazu
Published: July 2017

Nucleation of Cu-Te layers was performed by the closed space sublimation method using various source materials, source temperatures, and Si substrates with different surface orientations. The objective was to produce nuclei layers with high quality for use as nucleation centers for CuGaTe2. The grown samples were evaluated by x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Cu2Te deposits were obtained using either a CuTe or Cu2Te source, but the latter gave a higher area coverage of Cu2Te nuclei. Highly oriented nuclei were obtained when they were grown on Si (001) at a source temperature of 640 °C and substrate temperature of 590 °C. When the source temperature was raised to 750 °C and the corresponding substrate temperature was 700 °C, nonuniform but highly oriented nuclei were obtained. Both nuclei layers exhibited a strong preference for (0001) orientation. The crystallographic features of the Cu2Te nuclei formed on Si (111) were similar to those of the Cu2Te nuclei formed on Si (001).
High-etch rate processes for performing deep, highly anisotropic etches in silicon carbide using inductively coupled plasma etching
Authors: Ozgur Mehmet , Huff Michael
Published: July 2017

This paper reports research performed on developing high rate of etch processes for the plasma etching of deep, highly anisotropic features into single-crystal 4H silicon carbide (SiC) substrates using an inductively coupled plasma process. To develop these etch processes, the authors conducted a design of experiments (DOE) whereby the most impactful etch process parameters were varied over predetermined values while the other etch process parameters were left unaffected. After performing an experimental etch on each sample, the samples were examined using various metrology methods to measure the etch outcomes. Using the investigational data accumulated during the DOE, the authors performed multiple regression analysis on this collected data in order to develop a model of the etch process that allows obtainment of desired outcomes, including a high etch rate, high mask selectivity, vertical sidewalls and minimal etch defects. Using optimized processes from the model, the authors were able to exhibit the ability to etch very deep features into SiC of more than 100 μm with nearly vertical sidewalls at high etch-rates. The capability to etch deep features at high etch rates into SiC is potentially useful for a number of microfabrication application areas.
Multifocal septic arthritis, gluteal abscess and spondylodiscitis byStreptococcus dysgalactiaesubspeciesequisimilisafter an intramuscular injection
Authors: Pocinho Rita Marques , Antunes Liliana , Pires Pedro , Baptista Isabel
Published: July 2017

We present the case of a 63-year-old man, admitted for hand cellulitis and acute kidney injury. AStreptococcus dysgalactiaesubspequisimilis(SDSE) was isolated in blood cultures and despite directed intravenous antibiotherapy, the patient evolved unfavourably, with dorsolumbar spondylodiscitis, multifocal septic arthritis and abscesses. CT also showed densification of the gluteal muscles, multiple air bubbles in the psoas, paraspinal muscles and spinal canal that were associated with an intramuscular injection administered 1 week earlier for a backache. After escalation of the antibiotherapy and intensive supportive measures, the patient showed improvement and was discharged after 8 weeks of antibiotherapy.

The incidence of invasive SDSE infections has been growing, especially in immunosupressed patients. In this case, despite no predisposing factor identified, it evolved to severe sepsis. The intramuscular injection, a trivialised but not harmless procedure, was the assumed port of entry, as previously described in another case report.
Facts and values: on the acceptability of risks in children’s sport using the example of rugby — a narrative review
Authors: Quarrie Kenneth Lincoln , Brooks John H M , Burger Nicholas , Hume Patria A , Jackson Steve
Published: July 2017

A clash of values has been identified between those who assert that:

1. all childhood injuries, regardless of origin, are inherently undesirable and should be prevented and;

2. those who believe that some measure of injury to children is an acceptable compromise for the physical benefits associated with physical activity and the development of abilities to appraise and deal with risks.

A debate regarding whether the tackles and collisions permitted in schools’ rugby represent acceptable risks, and what steps should be taken if they do not, exemplifies the issue.

Questions regarding the magnitude of injury risks in sport are issues of fact and can be quantified via the results of injury surveillance studies. Risks are neither high nor low in isolation; they are relatively high or low with reference to other activities or across groups participating in an activity. Issues of the acceptability of a given degree of risk are value dependent. Research regarding perceptions of risk reveals wide variations in the degree of risk people view as acceptable. Factors impacting on risk perception include whether the risks are well known and understood, whether they are ‘dread’ risks and the degree to which people undertake the risks voluntarily and feel they have control over them.

Based on the evidence currently available, the risks to children playing rugby do not appear to be inordinately high compared with those in a range of other childhood sports and activities, but better comparative information is urgently needed. Further evidence, however, should not necessarily be expected to result in the resolution of acceptable risk debates—pre-existing values shape our perspectives on whether new evidence is relevant, valid and reliable.
Translating staff experience into organisational improvement: the HEADS-UP stepped wedge, cluster controlled, non-randomised trial
Authors: Pannick Samuel , Athanasiou Thanos , Long Susannah J , Beveridge Iain , Sevdalis Nick
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Frontline insights into care delivery correlate with patients’ clinical outcomes. These outcomes might be improved through near-real time identification and mitigation of staff concerns. We evaluated the effects of a prospective frontline surveillance system on patient and team outcomes.

Design

Prospective, stepped wedge, non-randomised, cluster controlled trial; prespecified per protocol analysis for high-fidelity intervention delivery.

Participants

Seven interdisciplinary medical ward teams from two hospitals in the UK.

Intervention

Prospective clinical team surveillance (PCTS): structured daily interdisciplinary briefings to capture staff concerns, with organisational facilitation and feedback.

Main measures

The primary outcome was excess length of stay (eLOS): an admission more than 24 hours above the local average for comparable patients. Secondary outcomes included safety and teamwork climates, and incident reporting. Mixed-effects models adjusted for time effects, age, comorbidity, palliation status and ward admissions. Safety and teamwork climates were measured with the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire. High-fidelity PCTS delivery comprised high engagement and high briefing frequency.

Results

Implementation fidelity was variable, both in briefing frequency (median 80% working days/month, IQR 65%–90%) and engagement (median 70 issues/ward/month, IQR 34–113). 1714/6518 (26.3%) intervention admissions had eLOS versus 1279/4927 (26.0%) control admissions, an absolute risk increase of 0.3%. PCTS increased eLOS in the adjusted intention-to-treat model (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.58, p=0.003). Conversely, high-fidelity PCTS reduced eLOS (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.94, p=0.006). High-fidelity PCTS also increased total, high-yield and non-nurse incident reports (incidence rate ratios 1.28–1.79, all p<0.002). Sustained PCTS significantly improved safety and teamwork climates over time.

Conclusions

This study highlighted the potential benefits and pitfalls of ward-level interdisciplinary interventions. While these interventions can improve care delivery in complex, fluid environments, the manner of their implementation is paramount. Suboptimal implementation may have an unexpectedly negative impact on performance.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN 34806867 (http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN34806867).