bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dehydration is a strong predictor of long‐term prognosis of thrombolysed patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Li Sha‐Sha , Yin Ming‐Ming , Zhou Zhong‐He , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: October 2017

Background and Purpose

Dehydration was found to be involved in the poor prognosis of patients with acute ischemic stroke. It is unclear whether dehydration status before onset is related with prognosis of thrombolysed patients with acute ischemic stroke. If it is the case, quickly hydrating may improve the prognosis. The present study was designed to explore the issue.

Methods

Eligible 294 patients with acute ischemic stroke after thrombolysis were enrolled in the present study according to inclusion/exclusion criteria. According to the modified Rankin scale (mRS) 90 days post stroke, the patients were divided into two groups: mRS 0–2 (n = 191) and mRS 3–6 (n = 103). In the present study, BUN/Cr ≥ 15 combined with USG > 1.010 or either of them were chosen as dehydration marker. Clinical data were analyzed between two groups. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were carried out.

Results

Age, fibrinogen, blood glucose, BUN/Cr, NIHSS score at admission, the systolic blood pressure (SBP) before thrombolysis, dehydration status (BUN/Cr ≥ 15 plus USG > 1.010), hyperlipidemia, USG and D‐dimer on admission day, and TOAST classification showed significant difference between two groups (p < .05). Further stratification analysis showed that BUN/Cr ≥ 15, NIHSS ≥ 6, blood glucose ≥8, and SBP > 150 were markedly associated with poor outcome (mRS 3–6, p < .05). After adjusting for age, fibrinogen, USG, D‐dimer, dehydration status, NIHSS, blood glucose, SBP, hyperlipidemia, and BUN/Cr at admission, multivariate logistic regression showed that dehydration status, higher NIHSS, higher blood glucose, and higher SBP at admission were independent risk factors for predicting the long‐term poor prognosis of thrombolysed patients.

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that BUN/Cr ≥ 15 combined with USG > 1.010 as a marker of dehydration status was an independent risk factor for long‐term poor prognosis of thrombolysed patients with acute ischemic stroke.
An Efficient Numerical Approach for Transient Simulation of Multiphase Flow Behavior in Centrifuges
Authors: Hammerich Simon , Gleiß Marco , Kespe Michael , Nirschl Hermann
Published: October 2017

Solid bowl centrifuges are applied for the separation of small particles in a variety of industries. However, the particles accumulate at the rotor wall, which leads to a time‐dependent separation efficiency. A numerical approach for spatial and time‐resolved simulations of the separation process in a tube centrifuge is developed and some numerical results are presented. The back coupling of the dispersed and sedimented particles is realized by locally defined viscosity functions. The open source computation software OpenFOAM was used to simulate the turbulent multiphase flow within the centrifuge. The numerical investigations demonstrate the significant influence of the growing sediment on the flow conditions and of the rheological behavior of the sediment on the sediment shape.
A General Approach Based on Sampled‐Current Voltammetry for Minimizing Electrode Fouling in Electroanalytical Detection
Authors: Mazerie Isabelle , Didier Pierre , Razan Florence , Hapiot Philippe , Coulon Nathalie , Girard Aurélie , de Sagazan Olivier , Floner Didier , Geneste Florence
Published: October 2017

Electrochemical analysis of species known to passivate electrode surfaces remains challenging. We previously proposed a new method, dealing with sampled‐current voltammetry performed on an electrode array to mimic polarography at a dropping mercury electrode for the detection of copper. In this work, we study the effectiveness of this method to circumvent electrode fouling with the analysis of phenol solutions at high concentrations (10−2 mol L−1), known to polymerize on electrode surface during its oxidation. Electrode arrays well‐adapted to the analysis with such system are prepared by photolithography and characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and voltammetry. Although analyses performed in conventional linear voltammetry or sampled‐current voltammetry on a single electrode are considerably affected by electrode fouling, a linear calibration plot was achievable using our method. Modeling of the electrochemical signal showed that the current depends only on the applied potential and a parameter characteristic of the passivation phenomenon. It also underlined that sampled‐current voltammetry on an electrode array can circumvent the problem of passivation by a judicious choice of the sampling time.
How our work changes us: Reflecting on a career as a defense victims outreach specialist and the application of restorative justice
Authors: Helenek Adriana , Downs Jonathan Taylor
Published: October 2017

Restorative justice emphasizes the restoration of relationships and has many potential applications in everyday life. Drawing on my experience as a practitioner of restorative justice in my role as a defense victims outreach specialist, this article reflects on my job's impact on my life at home and in the community. Finally, I explore the potential for the use of restorative justice in settings outside of the workplace.
Oxidation of Trialkylamines by BrCCl3: Scope, Applications and Mechanistic Aspects
Authors: Nauth Alexander M. , Orejarena Pacheco Julio Cesar , Pusch Stefan , Opatz Till
Published: October 2017

The catalyst‐free photochemical reaction of trialkylamines and BrCCl3 induced by visible light was investigated. The outcome of the reaction was found to depend strongly on the nature of the amine substrates. N‐Methyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinolines give 3,4‐dihydroisoquinolinium salts, whereas aliphatic trialkylamines produce hydrohalide salts and streptocyanines as the major products. The addition of KCN inhibits streptocyanine formation, and results in the clean formation of α‐aminonitriles instead. The light‐absorbing species and the underlying reaction mechanism were studied by DFT calculations and experimental observations.
Gold‐Catalyzed [4+3] Cycloaddition/C–H Functionalization Cascade: Regio‐ and Diastereoselective Route to Cyclohepta[b]indoles
Authors: Li Yangyan , Zhu Chao‐Ze , Zhang Junliang
Published: October 2017

For the first time, a gold‐catalyzed [4+3] cycloaddition/C–H functionalization cascade was developed. This reaction provides efficient access to densely functionalized cyclohepta[b]indoles, in which a second propargylic ester is incorporated as a side chain, in excellent yields. By hydrolysis of the two vinyl acetates, highly functionalized indole‐fused bicyclo[3.2.1]octane derivatives bearing four contiguous stereogenic centers were acquired as single regio‐ and diastereomers through an additional intramolecular transannular aldol reaction. On the basis of the above two transformations, an economical “one‐pot”, three‐step cascade reaction was developed.
A study on the acidic hydrolysis of cyclic phosphinates: 1‐Alkoxy‐3‐phospholene 1‐oxides, 1‐ethoxy‐3‐methylphospholane 1‐oxide, and 1‐ethoxy‐3‐methyl‐1,2,3,4,5,6‐hexahydrophosphinine 1‐oxide
Authors: Keglevich György , Rádai Zita , Harsági Nikoletta , Szigetvári Áron , Kiss Nóra Zsuzsa
Published: October 2017

The hydrochloric acid‐catalyzed hydrolysis of phosphinates was studied on 1‐alkoxy‐3‐phospholene 1‐oxides, 1‐ethoxy‐3‐methylphospholane 1‐oxide, and 1‐ethoxy‐3‐methyl‐1,2,3,4,5,6‐hexahydrophosphinine 1‐oxide as the model compounds. Under the conditions applied, the isomerization of the 3‐phospholene moiety to the 2‐phospholene ring also occurred leading to mixtures of the corresponding 1‐hydroxy‐3‐phospholene oxide and 1‐hydroxy‐2‐phospholene oxide. According to our optimized method, using 3 equivalents (0.5 mL) of concentrated hydrochloric acid in 1 mL of water per ca. 2 mmol of the substrate at reflux, the completion required 3‐10 hour. The hydrolyses were characterized by pseudo‐first‐order rate constants and the isomerizations by rate constants. The application of p‐toluenesulfonic acid under microwave irradiation at 140°C in the hydrolysis of 1‐alkoxy‐3‐methyl‐3‐phospholene oxides associated with reaction times of 1‐3 hour. The reactivity order of the 5‐ and 6‐ring phosphinates in hydrolysis was set up.
Synthesis of new organophosphorus‐substituted fulvenes with indenyl moieties
Authors: Prishchenko Andrey A. , Livantsov Mikhail V. , Novikova Olga P. , Livantsova Ludmila I. , Petrosyan Valery S.
Published: October 2017

The convenient syntheses of new organophosphorus‐substituted benzofulvenes with indenyl moieties from bis(trimethylsilyl) inden‐2‐ylphosphonate and substituted azomethines in the presence of the effective initiator‐sodium hydride are developed. The following treatment of phosphonates with methanolic sodium methylate gives stable water‐soluble disodium salts of corresponding phosphonic acids.
Association between grade of referral smear and high‐grade disease among women with biopsy samples showing cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2
Authors: Hakem Emmanuel , Ibrahim Elzahra , Tanyous Emmanuel , Astbury Katharine , Purandare Nikhil
Published: October 2017

Objective

To determine whether the grade of referral smear reflects the frequency of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 3 (CIN3) or worse lesions among patients with CIN2 on punch biopsy.

Methods

In a retrospective study, data were reviewed from women with a punch biopsy sample showing CIN2 and a known referral smear who underwent large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) between January 1, 2013, and January 1, 2016, at Galway University Hospital, Ireland. Data were analyzed by patient age (≤30 and >30 years), referral smear (low and high grade), and LLETZ histology (≤CIN2 and ≥CIN3).

Results

Overall, 264 women were included. LLETZ histology of CIN3 or worse was more common among women with high‐grade referral smears (63/144 [43.8%]) than among those with low‐grade smears (26/120 [21.7%]; relative risk 2.02, 95% confidence interval 1.37–2.96; P<0.001). Among patients younger than 30 years, underlying CIN3 and above was again more frequent among women with high‐grade (44/95 [46.3%]) versus low‐grade smears (12/56 [21.4%]; relative risk 2.16, 95% confidence interval 1.25–3.73; P=0.004). No difference was recorded in the older age group.

Conclusion

Although LLETZ can be performed for a CIN2 biopsy and high‐grade smear, consideration should be given among young women (<30 years) with low‐grade smears whose biopsy histology is incidentally CIN2.
IL‐1RN gene polymorphisms are associated with breast cancer risk in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Jin Tianbo , Cao Wei , Zuo Xiaoxiao , Li Miao , Yang Ya , Liang Tiansong , Yang Hongyao , Zhao Xinhan , Yang Daoke
Published: October 2017

Background

The interleukins (ILs) are a large family of endogenous cytokines that are crucial in the regulation of inflammation and immunological responses. The IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1RN) has been found to be associated with risk breast cancer (BC) in Korean and Indian women. However, little information is found about the polymorphisms of IL‐1RN in Chinese Han BC patients.

Methods

We investigated the association between single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL‐1RN and BC risk in a case–control study that included 530 BC cases and 628 healthy controls. Six tag SNPs in IL‐1RN were selected and genotyped using the Sequenom MassARRAY platform (Sequenom, San Diego, CA, USA). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using unconditional logistic regression after adjusting for age and sex.

Results

In the allele model, we found that the frequency of the ‘T’ allele of rs928940 was significantly lower in BC cases than in controls (OR = 0.776, 95% CI = 0.611–0.985, p = 0.037). In the genetic model analysis, five susceptibility SNPs were found to be associated with BC risk: the minor allele ‘G’ of rs315919, rs3181052 and rs452204 were associated with a decreased risk of BC under dominant model (p < 0.05), whereas the minor alleles ‘T’ and ‘C’ of rs928940 and rs4252019 were associated with a decreased risk of BC under both the codominant and dominant models (p < 0.05), which suggested these SNPs may play a protective role against BC risk. The haplotype ‘TAGC’ constructed by rs928940, rs3181052, rs452204 and rs4252019 was associated with a decreased risk of BC (OR = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.12–0.94; p = 0.038).

Conclusions

The data obtained in the present study shed new light on the association between genetic polymorphisms of IL‐1RN and BC susceptibility in the Chinese Han population.
Bilateral anatomic resection of the ventral parts of the paramedian sectors of the liver with total caudate lobectomy for deeply/centrally located liver tumors: a new technique maximizing both oncological and surgical safety
Authors: Shindoh Junichi , Nishioka Yujiro , Hashimoto Masaji
Published: October 2017

Systematic resection of the tumor‐bearing portal territory is reportedly correlated with an improved survival of patients with liver tumors, especially in hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite advances in surgical management, however, anatomic resection of deeply/centrally located tumors remains a challenging procedure not only with technical difficulty but also because of decreased hepatic functional reserve frequently observed due to underlying liver disease. In this report, we have reported a novel technique that allows a promising approach for deeply/centrally located tumors with maximizing both the surgical and oncological safety. Bilateral anatomic resection of the ventral parts of the paramedian sectors (BVPM) offers a sufficient surgical window for safe access to the perihilar region. This technique is based on Hjortsjo's theory for liver anatomy and enables systematic removal of the 3rd‐order portal territories. In addition, the current technique is advantageous in minimizing the loss of the normal liver parenchyma without leaving ischemia or congestion in the future liver remnant. Of the seven consecutive patients who were treated with this procedure, all the patients achieved R0 resection with acceptable rate of major morbidity (1/7, 14%). The BVPM may offer a safe and maximized chance of curative resection for deeply/centrally located liver tumors.
Numerical and experimental integration in analysis of a superplastic forming
Authors: Carunchio A. F. , Batalha M. H. F. , Pereira D. A. , Resende H. B. , Batalha A. E. F. , Toloczko F. R. , Santos M. W. B. , Batalha G. F.
Published: October 2017

Superplastic forming (SPF) is a technique that takes advantage of metallic alloys with fine grain size presenting very high ductility and large deformations before rupture under certain conditions. There is a growing interest in this manufacturing process in different areas, such as: aeronautical, automotive and medical, due to the possibility of fabricating complex geometry, lightweight, and strong thin shell parts. The researchers employed an industrial size superplastic hot press and, aiming to start investigations in the field of superplastic forming, finite element simulation and material analysis. This paper presents one of a first works in this field: developing a numerical model and forming a titanium alloy dome. A finite element model was developed to obtain the pressure curve, used as input in the superplastic forming machine control and for thickness prediction. Results and comparisons between the formed part and numerical calculations are presented, as well as the main difficulties the institutions faced in this new research field.
Protective coatings for ceramic superplastic forming dies: An initial study on protective coating performance
Authors: Staiano A. , Ion W. , O'Hare L. , Zuelli N.
Published: October 2017

Superplastic forming is an advanced manufacturing process, typically restricted to low volume and high value products. Refractory ceramics are a low cost option to substitute the high temperature resistant steels and other alloys conventionally used in superplastic forming dies, but their brittle nature is a limiting factor for most superplastic forming applications. Suitable surface coatings have shown a significant effect on wear resistance and can be employed to improve the ceramic performance in terms of tool life. This paper focuses on an initial study on protective coatings for superplastic forming ceramic dies to evaluate their effectiveness under superplastic forming conditions. Tests are conducted using a dedicated test rig built where the die‐blank interaction under superplastic forming conditions is replicated at laboratory scale. Two coating materials are tested and surface wear is compared with the uncoated surface of a particle‐reinforced fused silica refractory superplastic forming ceramic die. Results show that the selected coating materials have poor protective performance in comparison with the uncoated ceramic die, but they demonstrate the ability to assess protective coatings performance under superplastic forming conditions at a laboratory scale.
Developing constitutive models from EPR‐based self‐learning finite element analysis
Authors: Nassr Ali , Javadi Akbar , Faramarzi Asaad
Published: October 2017

A constitutive model that captures the material behavior under a wide range of loading conditions is essential for simulating complex boundary value problems. In recent years, some attempts have been made to develop constitutive models for finite element analysis using self‐learning simulation (SelfSim). Self‐learning simulation is an inverse analysis technique that extracts material behavior from some boundary measurements (eg, load and displacement). In the heart of the self‐learning framework is a neural network which is used to train and develop a constitutive model that represents the material behavior. It is generally known that neural networks suffer from a number of drawbacks. This paper utilizes evolutionary polynomial regression (EPR) in the framework of SelfSim within an automation process which is coded in Matlab environment. EPR is a hybrid data mining technique that uses a combination of a genetic algorithm and the least square method to search for mathematical equations to represent the behavior of a system. Two strategies of material modeling have been considered in the SelfSim‐based finite element analysis. These include a total stress‐strain strategy applied to analysis of a truss structure using synthetic measurement data and an incremental stress‐strain strategy applied to simulation of triaxial tests using experimental data. The results show that effective and accurate constitutive models can be developed from the proposed EPR‐based self‐learning finite element method. The EPR‐based self‐learning FEM can provide accurate predictions to engineering problems. The main advantages of using EPR over neural network are highlighted.
Enhanced Moisture Stability of Perovskite Solar Cells With Mixed‐Dimensional and Mixed‐Compositional Light‐Absorbing Materials
Authors: Ye Jiajiu , Zheng Haiying , Zhu Liangzheng , Liu Guozheng , Zhang Xuhui , Hayat Tasawar , Pan Xu , Dai Songyuan
Published: October 2017

In spite of perovskite solar cells have achieved great progress in recent years, the long term stability of perovskite material is always a big obstacle before commercialization, especially the moisture instability. In this paper, we reported a layered perovskite solar cell based on (CF3CH2NH2)2(FA0.825MA0.15Cs0.025)n−1Pbn(I0.85Br0.15)3n+1 series (n = 1−∞), which possess excellent optoelectronic property and stability. The perovskite film displayed an ultrahigh surface coverage and provided high‐quality thin films which lead to an advancement in solar cells performance. We had fabricated solar cells based on (CF3CH2NH2)2(FA0.825MA0.15Cs0.025)29Pb30(I0.85Br0.15)91 light absorber and got the best PCE of 18.17%. The average PCE of 17.84% was achieved with Jsc of 21.05 mA cm−2, Voc of 1.095V, and FF of 77.4%. Moreover, the multi‐layered perovskite showed excellent property of moisture‐resistant compared to three‐dimensional type PSCs. Under relative humidity level of 65%, the devices without any encapsulation did not deteriorate for up to approximately 28 days with the PCE maintaining over 90%.
Seven Up: The Incorporation of Li+ Cations in Yttrium Tungstate and Silicate Tungstate
Authors: Dorn Katharina V. , Schustereit Tanja , Strobel Sabine , Hartenbach Ingo
Published: October 2017

Lithium yttrium(III) oxidotungstate(VI), LiY5W8O32, was synthesized by solid‐state reaction of a mixture of lithium chloride, yttrium sesquioxide, and tungsten trioxide. It crystallizes monoclinically in space group C2/c (a = 1908.34(5) pm, b = 561.80(1) pm, c = 1147.22(3) pm, β = 111.255(2)°, Z = 2). The structure comprises one mixed Li+/Y3+ cationic position (molar ratio Li:Y1 = 1:1) and one cationic position exclusively occupied by Y3+ cations. All W6+ cations are surrounded by six O2– anions, forming distorted octahedral coordination polyhedra, which are mutually linked by both edges and vertices to cascaded 2∞{[W4O16]8–} layers. Lithium yttrium(III) oxidosilicate(IV) oxidotungstate(VI), LiY5[SiO4]2[WO4]4, was obtained as by‐product in the synthesis of YF[WO4] by sintering a mixture of Y2O3, YF3, and WO3 with lithium chloride as fluxing agent in sealed silica ampoules. It crystallizes orthorhombically in space group Pban ( a = 512.08(4) pm, b = 1673.35(12) pm, c = 493.68(4) pm, Z = 1) bearing one mixed crystallographic position occupied by Li+ and Y3+ cations in a molar ratio of 1:3 and one exclusive Y3+ position in its structure. The coordination polyhedra around the Si4+ and W6+ cations are isolated tetrahedra built up by four O2– anions each. The crystal structure of this silicate tungstate can be derived from the scheelite‐type structure by inserting anionic 2∞{(Y2[SiO4])–} layers between cationic 2∞{[(Li/Y1)2[WO4]2]+} double layers.
Impact of Surgical Lighting on Intraoperative Safety in Low‐Resource Settings: A Cross‐Sectional Survey of Surgical Providers
Authors: Forrester Jared A. , Boyd Nicholas J. , Fitzgerald J. Edward F. , Wilson Iain H. , Bekele Abebe , Weiser Thomas G.
Published: October 2017

Background

Safe surgery requires high‐quality, reliable lighting of the surgical field. Little is reported on the quality or potential safety impact of surgical lighting in low‐resource settings, where power failures are common and equipment and resources are limited.

Methods

Members of the Lifebox Foundation created a novel, non‐mandatory, 18‐item survey tool using an iterative process. This was distributed to surgical providers practicing in low‐resource settings through surgical societies and mailing lists.

Results

We received 100 complete responses, representing a range of surgical centres from 39 countries. Poor‐quality surgical field lighting was reported by 40% of respondents, with 32% reporting delayed or cancelled operations due to poor lighting and 48% reporting electrical power failures at least once per week. Eighty per cent reported the quality of their surgical lighting presents a patient safety risk with 18% having direct experience of poor‐quality lighting leading to negative patient outcomes. When power outages occur, 58% of surgeons rely on a backup generator and 29% operate by mobile phone light. Only 9% of respondents regularly use a surgical headlight, with the most common barriers reported as unaffordability and poor in‐country suppliers.

Conclusions

In our survey of surgeons working in low‐resource settings, a majority report poor surgical lighting as a major risk to patient safety and nearly one‐third report delayed or cancelled operations due to poor lighting. Developing and distributing robust, affordable, high‐quality surgical headlights could provide an ideal solution to this significant surgical safety issue.
Evidence for brain glucose dysregulation in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: An Yang , Varma Vijay R. , Varma Sudhir , Casanova Ramon , Dammer Eric , Pletnikova Olga , Chia Chee W. , Egan Josephine M. , Ferrucci Luigi , Troncoso Juan , Levey Allan I. , Lah James , Seyfried Nicholas T. , Legido‐Quigley Cristina , O'Brien Richard , Thambisetty Madhav
Published: October 2017

Introduction

It is unclear whether abnormalities in brain glucose homeostasis are associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis.

Methods

Within the autopsy cohort of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, we measured brain glucose concentration and assessed the ratios of the glycolytic amino acids, serine, glycine, and alanine to glucose. We also quantified protein levels of the neuronal (GLUT3) and astrocytic (GLUT1) glucose transporters. Finally, we assessed the relationships between plasma glucose measured before death and brain tissue glucose.

Results

Higher brain tissue glucose concentration, reduced glycolytic flux, and lower GLUT3 are related to severity of AD pathology and the expression of AD symptoms. Longitudinal increases in fasting plasma glucose levels are associated with higher brain tissue glucose concentrations.

Discussion

Impaired glucose metabolism due to reduced glycolytic flux may be intrinsic to AD pathogenesis. Abnormalities in brain glucose homeostasis may begin several years before the onset of clinical symptoms.
Strategies for Sampling Difficult Archaeological Contexts and Improving the Quality of Radiocarbon Data: The Case of Erimi Laonin Tou Porakou, Cyprus
Authors: Calabrisotto C Scirè , Amadio M , Fedi M E , Liccioli L , Bombardieri L
Published: October 2017

After decades of collaborative experience between archaeologists and radiocarbon scientists, with the aim at producing radiocarbon dates capable of answering the most various research questions, it is now widely recognized that an accurate sampling strategy is the cornerstone of a solid 14C-based chronology. In this paper, we discuss the sampling criteria required to obtain good quality 14C data within a challenging archaeological context like the Bronze Age site of Erimi Laonin tou Porakou (Limassol, Cyprus). Following a dedicated sampling strategy, in the productive complex of the settlement, charcoal samples were collected from secure contexts according to stratigraphic examination of excavated strata and analysis of associated features and material culture. Micromorphology was also applied for a more accurate interpretation of individual deposits and reconstruction of depositional and post-depositional processes. In the necropolis, bone samples were selected among the fragmentary and commingled human remains through evaluation of the preservation state and the minimum number of individuals (MNI). A discrepancy between the charcoal and the bone 14C determinations was encountered, probably due to old wood issues. The 14C dates were analyzed using a Bayesian model that incorporates the archaeological information, and a preliminary 14C-based chronology was defined for this site.
Chiari 1000 Registry Project: assessment of surgical outcome on self-focused attention, pain, and delayed recall
Authors: Allen P. A. , Delahanty D. , Kaut K. P. , Li X. , Garcia M. , Houston J. R. , Tokar D. M. , Loth F. , Maleki J. , Vorster S. , Luciano M. G.
Published: October 2017

Background

Prior research has typically found a negative relationship between chronic pain and memory, and we examined whether cognitive control processes (e.g. reflection and rumination) moderated this relationship in individuals with Chiari malformation Type I (CM). CM is a neurological condition in which the cerebellar tonsils descend into the medullary and upper cervical spine regions potentially resulting in severe headaches and neck pain.

Methods

CM patients who had (n = 341) and had not (n = 297) undergone decompression surgery completed the McGill Pain Questionnaire-Short Form-Revised (SF-MPQ-2), the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), and the Rumination-Reflection Questionnaire (RRQ). Immediate recall scores were compared to those of 102 healthy controls, and delayed recall performance was compared across other variables within the CM group.

Results

CM patients performed more poorly on immediate recall than did controls. Within CM patients, we observed main effects for reflection and age, and a pain x reflection x surgical status (surgery v. no surgery) interaction in which non-decompressed individuals with low levels of pain and high levels of reflection showed superior delayed recall relative to non-decompressed individuals with higher pain and all decompressed individuals.

Conclusions

CM patients show an immediate recall deficit relative to controls, regardless of surgical status. High levels of reflection were associated with better delayed recall performance in non-decompressed CM patients with lower pain levels. High levels of chronic pain may overwhelm increased focused attention abilities, but higher levels of reflection partially overcome the distracting effects of pain and this may represent a type of resilience.
Romeo and Juliet for Grownups
Authors: Flaumenhaft Mera J.
Published: October 2017

Romeo and Juliet is often the first play by Shakespeare that students and playgoers encounter. For many it remains the paradigmatic depiction of pure and passionate love, ruined by a meaningless feud and unsympathetic opponents. Scholarly interpretations often encourage this view. This article shows that the play is more complicated—and more interesting. Although the lovers and their passion are noble and beautiful, or precisely because they are pitched at so high a level, they cannot endure and mature as viable adults in a healthy community. Verona itself is characterized as stunted: in its civic arrangements, relations among and within families, incentives for adolescents to grow up, and in the inadequate guidance of spiritual institutions. The article explores the relation between the private passion of young love and the political circumstances which nourish or destroy it. It aims to deepen the responses of audiences that love the play, its memorable lovers, and love itself.
PAM: Decision Support for Long-Term Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) Control
Authors: Lindsay Karen , Popp Michael , Norsworthy Jason , Bagavathiannan Muthukumar , Powles Stephen , Lacoste Myrtille
Published: October 2017

Palmer amaranth is the most troublesome weed problem in mid-southern US crop production. Herbicides continue to be the most commonly employed method for managing Palmer amaranth, despite the weed’s widespread resistance to them. Therefore, farmers need research and extension efforts that promote the adoption of integrated weed management (IWM) techniques. Producers, crop consultants, educators, and researchers would be more likely to deploy diversified chemical and nonchemical weed management options if they are more informed about long-term biological and economic implications via user-friendly decision-support software. Described within is a recently developed software that demonstrates the effects of Palmer amaranth management practices on soil seedbank, risk of resistance evolution, and economics over a 10-year planning horizon. Aiding this objective is a point-and-click interface that provides feedback on resistance risk, yield potential, profitability, soil seedbank dynamics, and error checking of management options.
Imaging the Underlying Mechanics of New Zealand Earthquakes
Authors: Witman Sarah
Published: October 2017

Researchers create a first-of-its-kind image to map electrical properties of rocks and minerals throughout the Hikurangi subduction zone.
Carlton, Horowitz, Vecchi, and Wood Receive the 2017 Atmospheric Sciences Ascent Award
Authors:   AGU
Published: October 2017

Annmarie Carlton, Larry W. Horowitz, Gabriel Vecchi, and Robert Wood will receive the 2017 Atmospheric Sciences Ascent Award at the 2017 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, to be held 11–15 December in New Orleans, La. The award recognizes research contributions by “exceptional mid-career (academic, government, and private sector) scientists in the fields of atmospheric and climate sciences.”
Multi-mode ultra-strong coupling in circuit quantum electrodynamics
Authors: Bosman Sal J. , Gely Mario F. , Singh Vibhor , Bruno Alessandro , Bothner Daniel , Steele Gary A.
Published: October 2017

With the introduction of superconducting circuits into the field of quantum optics, many experimental demonstrations of the quantum physics of an artificial atom coupled to a single-mode light field have been realized. Engineering such quantum systems offers the opportunity to explore extreme regimes of light-matter interaction that are inaccessible with natural systems. For instance the coupling strength g can be increased until it is comparable with the atomic or mode frequency ω
a,m
and the atom can be coupled to multiple modes which has always challenged our understanding of light-matter interaction. Here, we experimentally realize a transmon qubit in the ultra-strong coupling regime, reaching coupling ratios of g/ω
m
 = 0.19 and we measure multi-mode interactions through a hybridization of the qubit up to the fifth mode of the resonator. This is enabled by a qubit with 88% of its capacitance formed by a vacuum-gap capacitance with the center conductor of a coplanar waveguide resonator. In addition to potential applications in quantum information technologies due to its small size, this architecture offers the potential to further explore the regime of multi-mode ultra-strong coupling.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Neuroprotective aspects of Human Reactive Astrocytes induced by Interleukin 1β
Authors: Teh Daniel Boon Loong , Prasad Ankshita , Jiang Wenxuan , Ariffin Mohd. Zacky , Khanna Sanjay , Belorkar Abha , Wong Limsoon , Liu Xiaogang , ALL Angelo H.
Published: October 2017

Reactive astrogliosis is a critical process in neuropathological conditions and neurotrauma. Although it has been suggested that it confers neuroprotective effects, the exact genomic mechanism has not been explored. The prevailing dogma of the role of astrogliosis in inhibition of axonal regeneration has been challenged by recent findings in rodent model’s spinal cord injury, demonstrating its neuroprotection and axonal regeneration properties. We examined whether their neuroprotective and axonal regeneration potentials can be identify in human spinal cord reactive astrocytes in vitro. Here, reactive astrogliosis was induced with IL1β. Within 24 hours of IL1β induction, astrocytes acquired reactive characteristics. Transcriptome analysis of over 40000 transcripts of genes and analysis with PFSnet subnetwork revealed upregulation of chemokines and axonal permissive factors including FGF2, BDNF, and NGF. In addition, most genes regulating axonal inhibitory molecules, including ROBO1 and ROBO2 were downregulated. There was no increase in the gene expression of “Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycans” (CSPGs’) clusters. This suggests that reactive astrocytes may not be the main CSPG contributory factor in glial scar. PFSnet analysis also indicated an upregulation of “Axonal Guidance Signaling” pathway. Our result suggests that human spinal cord reactive astrocytes is potentially neuroprotective at an early onset of reactive astrogliosis.
Inertia-driven resonant excitation of a magnetic skyrmion
Authors: Shiino Takayuki , Kim Kab-Jin , Lee Ki-Suk , Park Byong-Guk
Published: October 2017

Topological spin structures such as magnetic domain walls, vortices, and skyrmions, have been receiving great interest because of their high potential application in various spintronic devices. To utilize them in the future spintronic devices, it is first necessary to understand the dynamics of the topological spin structures. Since inertial effect plays a crucial role in the dynamics of a particle, understanding the inertial effect of topological spin structures is an important task. Here, we report that a strong inertial effect appears steadily when a skyrmion is driven by an oscillating spin-Hall-spin-torque (SHST). We find that the skyrmion exhibits an inertia-driven hypocycloid-type trajectory when it is excited by the oscillating SHST. This motion has not been achieved by an oscillating magnetic field, which only excites the breathing mode without the inertial effect. The distinct inertial effect can be explained in terms of a spin wave excitation in the skyrmion boundary which is induced by the non-uniform SHST. Furthermore, the inertia-driven resonant excitation provides a way of experimentally estimating the inertial mass of the skyrmion. Our results therefore pave the way for the development of skyrmion-based device applications.
Altered Norbin Expression in Patients with Epilepsy and a Rat Model
Authors: Xu Yali , Li Zengyou , Yao Li , Zhang Xingping , Gan Dan , Jiang Manchun , Wang Na , Chen Guojun , Wang Xuefeng
Published: October 2017

Norbin is widely distributed in neuronal tissues, is a regulator of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) phosphorylation. Norbin is also an important endogenous modulator of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) signaling, and nervous system-specific homozygous gene disruptions, result in epileptic seizures. In this study, we aimed to investigate norbin expression patterns in epilepsy and to elucidate the relationships between norbin and mGluR5 and p-CaMKII in epilepsy. Double-immunolabeling, immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting studies showed that norbin was downregulated in the temporal neocortex of patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) compared with control subjects. Moreover, in a rat model of lithium chloride-pilocarpine-induced epilepsy, norbin expression began to decrease at 6 h after the onset of status epilepticus and remained at a low level until 60 days. In addition, p-CaMKII expression was significantly increased in both patients with TLE and in animal model. Norbin and mGluR5 were found to be co-expressed in neurons of epileptic tissues. Finally, norbin over-expression facilitated by injections of adeno-associated viral vector into the rat hippocampus increased latency and survival in the lithium chloride-pilocarpine model. Thus, our results indicate norbin participates in the pathogenesis of epilepsy, perhaps by modulating mGluR5 signaling, regulating CaMKII phosphorylation, and may exert antiepileptic effects.
A deterministic quantum dot micropillar single photon source with >65% extraction efficiency based on fluorescence imaging method
Authors: Liu Shunfa , Wei Yuming , Su Rongling , Su Rongbin , Ma Ben , Chen Zesheng , Ni Haiqiao , Niu Zhichuan , Yu Ying , Wei Yujia , Wang Xuehua , Yu Siyuan
Published: October 2017

We report optical positioning of single quantum dots (QDs) in planar distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) cavity with an average position uncertainty of ≈20 nm using an optimized photoluminescence imaging method. We create single-photon sources based on these QDs in determined micropillar cavities. The brightness of the QD fluorescence is greatly enhanced on resonance with the fundamental mode of the cavity, leading to an high extraction efficiency of 68% ± 6% into a lens with numerical aperture of 0.65, and simultaneously exhibiting low multi-photon probability (g(2)(0) = 0.144 ± 0.012) at this collection efficiency.
Identification of molecular alterations in leukocytes from gene expression profiles of peripheral whole blood of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Li Hongdong , Hong Guini , Lin Mengna , Shi Yidan , Wang Lili , Jiang Fengle , Zhang Fan , Wang Yuhang , Guo Zheng
Published: October 2017

Blood-based test has been considered as a promising way to diagnose and study Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the changed proportions of the leukocytes under disease states could confound the aberrant expression signals observed in mixed-cell blood samples. We have previously proposed a method, Ref-REO, to detect the leukocyte specific expression alterations from mixed-cell blood samples. In this study, by applying Ref-REO, we detect 42 and 45 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between AD and normal peripheral whole blood (PWB) samples in two datasets, respectively. These DEGs are mainly associated with AD-associated functions such as Wnt signaling pathways and mitochondrion dysfunctions. They are also reproducible in AD brain tissue, and tend to interact with the reported AD-associated biomarkers and overlap with targets of AD-associated PWB miRNAs. Moreover, they are closely associated with aging and have severer expression alterations in the younger adults with AD. Finally, diagnostic signatures are constructed from these leukocyte specific alterations, whose area under the curve (AUC) for predicting AD is higher than 0.73 in the two AD PWB datasets. In conclusion, gene expression alterations in leukocytes could be extracted from AD PWB samples, which are closely associated with AD progression, and used as a diagnostic signature of AD.
The impact of ageing reveals distinct roles for human dentate gyrus and CA3 in pattern separation and object recognition memory
Authors: Dillon Serena E. , Tsivos Demitra , Knight Michael , McCann Bryony , Pennington Catherine , Shiel Anna I. , Conway Myra E. , Newson Margaret A. , Kauppinen Risto A. , Coulthard Elizabeth J.
Published: October 2017

Both recognition of familiar objects and pattern separation, a process that orthogonalises overlapping events, are critical for effective memory. Evidence is emerging that human pattern separation requires dentate gyrus. Dentate gyrus is intimately connected to CA3 where, in animals, an autoassociative network enables recall of complete memories to underpin object/event recognition. Despite huge motivation to treat age-related human memory disorders, interaction between human CA3 and dentate subfields is difficult to investigate due to small size and proximity. We tested the hypothesis that human dentate gyrus is critical for pattern separation, whereas, CA3 underpins identical object recognition. Using 3 T MR hippocampal subfield volumetry combined with a behavioural pattern separation task, we demonstrate that dentate gyrus volume predicts accuracy and response time during behavioural pattern separation whereas CA3 predicts performance in object recognition memory. Critically, human dentate gyrus volume decreases with age whereas CA3 volume is age-independent. Further, decreased dentate gyrus volume, and no other subfield volume, mediates adverse effects of aging on memory. Thus, we demonstrate distinct roles for CA3 and dentate gyrus in human memory and uncover the variegated effects of human ageing across hippocampal regions. Accurate pinpointing of focal memory-related deficits will allow future targeted treatment for memory loss.
Structure determination and activity manipulation of the turfgrass ABA receptor FePYR1
Authors: Ren Zhizhong , Wang Zhen , Zhou X. Edward , Shi Huazhong , Hong Yechun , Cao Minjie , Chan Zhulong , Liu Xue , Xu H. Eric , Zhu Jian-Kang
Published: October 2017

Turfgrass are widely cultivated ornamental plants that have important ecological, societal and economical values. However, many turfgrass species are susceptible to drought and demand frequent irrigation thus consuming large amounts of water. With the ultimate goal of improving drought resistance in turfgrass, we identified several ABA receptors in turfgrass that are important to mediate ABA signaling and drought stress response. The ABA receptor FePYR1 from turfgrass Festuca elata was demonstrated to bind ABA as a monomer. Crystal structure analysis revealed that FePYR1 recognizes and binds ABA by the common gate-latch-lock mechanism resembling the Arabidopsis ABA receptors, but the ABA binding pocket in FePYR1 shows discrepant residues resulting in different binding affinity to ABA. Structure-guided alterations of amino acid residues in FePYR1 generated ABA receptor variants with significantly increased ABA binding affinity. Expression of FePYR1 in Arabidopsis conferred enhanced drought resistance in the transgenic plants. These findings provided detailed information about FePYR1 and demonstrated that structure-assisted engineering could create superior ABA receptors for improving plant drought resistance. The detailed structural information of FePYR1 would also assist future rational design of small molecules targeting specific ABA receptors in economically important plant species.
Association of leisure time physical activity and NMR-detected circulating amino acids in peripubertal girls: A 7.5-year longitudinal study
Authors: Zhang Xiaobo , Wiklund Petri , Wu Na , Yang Yifan , Zhuang Haihui , Cheng Sulin
Published: October 2017

This study investigated the longitudinal associations of physical activity and circulating amino acids concentration in peripubertal girls. Three hundred ninety-six Finnish girls participated in the longitudinal study from childhood (mean age 11.2 years) to early adulthood (mean age 18.2 years). Circulating amino acids were assessed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. LTPA was assessed by self-administered questionnaire. We found that isoleucine, leucine and tyrosine levels were significantly higher in individuals with lower LTPA than their peers at age 11 (p < 0.05 for all), independent of BMI. In addition, isoleucine and leucine levels increased significantly (~15%) from childhood to early adulthood among the individuals with consistently low LTPA (p < 0.05 for both), while among the individuals with consistently high LTPA the level of these amino acids remained virtually unchanged. In conclusion, high level of physical activity is associated lower serum isoleucine and leucine in peripubertal girls, independent of BMI, which may serve as a mechanistic link between high level of physical activity in childhood and its health benefits later in life. Further studies in peripubertal boys are needed to assess whether associations between physical activity and circulating amino acids in children adolescents are sex-specific.
Pillared graphene as an ultra-high sensitivity mass sensor
Authors: Duan Ke , Li Li , Hu Yujin , Wang Xuelin
Published: October 2017

Hybrid structure of graphene sheets supported by carbon nanotubes (CNTs) sustains unique properties of both graphene and CNTs, which enables the utilization of advantages of the two novel materials. In this work, the capability of three-dimensional pillared graphene structure used as nanomechanical sensors is investigated by performing molecular dynamics simulations. The obtained results demonstrate that: (a) the mass sensitivity of the pillared graphene structure is ultrahigh and can reach at least 1 yg (10−24 g) with a mass responsivity 0.34 GHz · yg−1; (b) the sizes of pillared graphene structure, particularly the distance between carbon nanotube pillars, have a significant effect on the sensing performance; (c) an analytical expression can be derived to detect the deposited mass from the resonant frequency of the pillared graphene structure. The performed analyses might be significant to future design and application of pillared graphene based sensors with high sensitivity and large detecting area.
Radiosensitizing effect of ellagic acid on growth of Hepatocellular carcinoma cells: an in vitro study
Authors: Das Ujjal , Biswas Sushobhan , Chattopadhyay Sreya , Chakraborty Anindita , Dey Sharma Rakhi , Banerji Asoke , Dey Sanjit
Published: October 2017

Failure of treatment for cancer in clinic by radio/chemotherapy is generally attributed to tumour resistance. Therefore, it is important to develop strategies to increase the cytotoxicity of tumour cells by radiation in combination with unique tumour selective cytotoxic agents. We evaluated the potential of ellagic acid (EA) as an enhancer of oxidative stress in cancer cells. HepG2 cells were treated with EA (10 µM) for 12 h prior to exposure of single 7.5 Gy dose of irradiation. Treatment of HepG2 cells with EA and gamma radiation showed increased reactive oxygen species generation, up regulation of p53 protein expression, decreased survival markers level like p-Akt, p-NF-kB and p-STAT3 which were significantly higher after radiation treatment alone. We also found that combination treatment increased G2/M phase cell population, decreased IL-6, COX–2 and TNF-α expression and caused a loss in mitochondrial membrane potential with decreased level of angiogenesis marker MMP-9. Over expression of Bax and activation of caspase 3 indicated the apoptosis of the cells. The results provided a strong unique strategy to kill cancer cells HepG2, using less radiation dose along with effective pro-oxidant dose of EA.