bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered hippocampal GABA and glutamate levels and uncoupling from functional connectivity in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gao Fei , Yin Xuntao , Edden Richard A.E. , Evans Alan C. , Xu Junhai , Cao Guanmei , Li Honghao , Li Muwei , Zhao Bin , Wang Jian , Wang Guangbin
Published: August 2018

There is growing evidence for dysfunctional glutamatergic excitation and/or gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic inhibition in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Cognitive impairment may occur during the early stages of MS and hippocampal abnormalities have been suggested as biomarkers. However, researchers have not clearly determined whether changes in hippocampal GABA and glutamate (Glu) levels are associated with cognitive impairment and aberrant neural activity in patients with MS. We used magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure GABA+ and Glu levels in the left hippocampal region of 29 patients with relapsing–remitting MS and 29 healthy controls (HCs). Resting‐state functional connectivity (FC) with the hippocampus was also examined. Compared to HCs, patients exhibited significantly lower GABA+ and Glu levels, which were associated with verbal and visuospatial memory deficits, respectively. Patients also showed decreased FC strengths between the hippocampus and several cortical regions, which are located within the default mode network. Moreover, hippocampal GABA+ levels and Glu/GABA+ ratios correlated with the FC strengths in HCs but not in patients with MS. This study describes a novel method for investigating the complex relationships among excitatory/inhibitory neurotransmitters, brain connectivity and cognition in health and disease. Strategies that modulate Glu and GABA neurotransmission may represent new therapeutic treatments for patients with MS.
Changes in reference evapotranspiration over China during 1960–2012: Attributions and relationships with atmospheric circulation
Authors: Chai Rongfan , Sun Shanlei , Chen Haishan , Zhou Shujia
Published: August 2018

This study investigates reference evapotranspiration (ET0) trends in China from 1960 to 2012 based on the Penman–Monteith equation and gridded meteorological measurements. Under the combined impacts of factors influencing ET0 (i.e., net radiation [RN], mean temperature [TAVE], vapour pressure deficit [VPD], and wind speed [WND]), both seasonal and annual ET0 for the whole China and more than half of the grids decreased over the past 53 years. The attribution analyses suggest that for the whole China, the WND is responsible for annual and seasonal ET0 decreases (excluding summer, where RN is responsible). Across China, the annual cause of WND with the largest spatial extent (43.1% of grids) mainly derives from north of the Changjiang River Basin (CJRB), whereas VPD (RN) as a cause is dispersedly distributed (within and to the south of the CJRB). In summer, RN is dominant in more than half of the grids, but the dominance of VPD and WND accounts for approximately 90% of grids during the remaining seasons. Finally, the correlation coefficients between ET0 and the Atlantic Oscillation (AO), North AO, Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), and El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) indices with different lead times are calculated. For the whole China, annual and seasonal ET0 always significantly correlate with these indices (excluding the IOD) but with varied lead times. Additionally, near half of the grids show significant and maximum (i.e., the largest one between ET0 and a certain index with a lead time of 0–3 seasons) correlation coefficients of ET0 with PDO in spring and summer, ENSO in autumn, and AO in winter. This study is not only significant for understanding ET0 changes, but it also provides preliminary and fundamental reference information for ET0 prediction.
Identification of candidate aberrantly methylated and differentially expressed genes in thyroid cancer
Authors: Tu Yaqin , Fan Guorun , Xi Hongli , Zeng Tianshu , Sun Haiying , Cai Xiong , Kong Wen
Published: August 2018

Aberrant methylation of DNA sequences plays a criticle role in finding novel aberrantly methylated genes and pathways in thyroid cancer (THCA). This study aimed to integrate three cohorts profile datasets to find novel aberrantly methylated genes and pathways in THCA. Data of gene expression profiling microarrays (GSE33630 and GSE65144) and gene methylation profiling microarrays (GSE51090) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Aberrantly methylated and differentially expressed genes were sorted and pathways were analyzed. Functional and enrichment analyses of selected genes were performed using the String database. A protein‐protein interaction network was constructed using the Cytoscape software, and module analysis was performed using Molecular Complex detection. In total, we identified 12 hypomethylation/high‐expression genes and 30 hypermethylation/low‐expression genes at the screening step and, finally, found 6 mostly changed hub genes including PPARGC1A, CREBBP, EP300, CD44, SPP1, and MMP9. Pathway analysis showed that aberrantly methylated differentially expressed genes were mainly associated with the thyroid hormone signaling pathway, AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway, and cell cycle process in THCA. After validation in the Cancer Genome Atlas database, the methylation and expression status of hub genes was significantly altered and the same with our results. Taken together, we identified novel aberrantly methylated genes and pathways in THCA, which could improve our understanding of the cause and underlying molecular events, and these candidate genes could serve as aberrant methylation‐based biomarkers for precise diagnosis and treatment of THCA.
EGT—A sensitive time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer for multielement isotope gas analysis
Authors: Riedo Andreas , Rout Surya , Wiesendanger Reto , Wurz Peter , Leya Ingo
Published: August 2018

The principles of operation and figures of merit of a novel, compact (324 mm × Ø 114 mm; volume approximately 1000 cm3) reflectron‐type time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer designed for simultaneous multielement isotope gas analysis is presented. The system, which consists of a pulsed electron impact ion source, is designed either to directly analyse gas samples collected and stored in a compartment or samples extracted from solids using a CW laser system (fibre‐coupled diode laser, <75 W, λ = 808 ± 10 nm). In latter case, laser pulses are focussed onto the sample surface to spot sizes of approximately 400 μm in diameter that allows for direct ablation and vaporisation of solid sample material and releasing of trapped gases. A cleaning and trapping system that consists of various cold stages and getters is used before the gas enters the mass analyser. Measurements on various gases were conducted for performance evaluation, ranging from standard gases (Ar, Kr, and Xe) to trapped gases extracted from a sample of the Millbillillie meteorite. At optimised instrument settings, mass spectrometric measurements can be conducted with a mass resolution m/∆m of up to approximately 1200 (16O and CH4 can be resolved), with a dynamic range of approximately 6 orders of magnitude and a mass calibration accuracy of approximately 100 ppm. The high detection sensitivity of the system allows the detection of gas species at partial pressures down to the low 10−16 mbar level (corresponding to <10 particles/cm3 at standard temperature and pressure, including an ion transmission of approximately 80%). Measurements using standard gases demonstrated that the isotope ratios for a given element can be measured with an accuracy at the per mill level (relative to terrestrial values). Measurements of Ar extracted from the meteorite Millbillillie gave a 36Ar/38Ar ratio of approximately 1.6, which is in good agreement with literature values.
Plasma From Patients Undergoing Liver Transplantation Is Resistant to Anticoagulant Activity of Soluble Thrombomodulin
Authors: Burlage Laura C. , Bos Sarah , Adelmeijer Jelle , Sakai Takumi , Porte Robert J. , Lisman Ton
Published: August 2018

Recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin (ART‐123) is an anticoagulant and anti‐inflammatory agent clinically used for treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Preclinical studies have shown that ART‐123 reduces hepatic ischemia/reperfusion. Although ART‐123 may therefore have clinical benefit in orthotopic liver transplantation, the substantial alterations in the hemostatic system may complicate its use in this setting. Here, we studied the in vitro effect of ART‐123 on coagulation of patients with end‐stage liver disease undergoing liver transplantation. Ten patients with end‐stage liver disease undergoing liver transplantation were included in this study. Plasma samples of 10 healthy individuals were included to establish reference values. Different concentrations of ART‐123 were added to plasma samples, and peak thrombin generation and clot lysis times (CLTs) were determined. In patient samples, plasma was profoundly resistant to the anticoagulant action of ART‐123, as reflected by significantly higher median inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of peak thrombin generation compared with controls. This might be partially explained by low levels of protein C, protein S, and elevated levels of factor VIII during transplantation. Intraoperative levels of thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor were significantly lower when compared with controls. However, ART‐123–dependent prolongation of CLTs was not significantly different from healthy controls. In conclusion, this study suggests that ART‐123 is unlikely to provoke bleeding in patients undergoing liver transplantation because proposed clinical dosages have a virtually absent anticoagulant effect in these patients. Clinical studies are required to confirm the safety of ART‐123 and efficacy on alleviating ischemia/reperfusion injury during liver transplantation.
The perils of self‐brand connections: Consumer response to changes in brand meaning
Authors: Gaustad Tarje , Samuelsen Bendik M. , Warlop Luk , Fitzsimons Gavan J.
Published: August 2018

Companies commit considerable resources to building brand associations that resonate with consumers’ identities and facilitate strong consumer–brand bonds. The current research investigates a potential disadvantage of this popular strategy. The results from three studies show that consumers with a high degree of self‐brand connection respond negatively to brand developments (e.g., brand acquisitions and repositioning) that change brand meaning. The authors show that this effect is due to a change in the identity signaled by the brand. The results contrast with existing research, which has consistently found that brand connections promote probrand behavior and serve as a buffer against negative brand information.
Imaging‐assisted time‐resolved dentine sampling to track weaning histories
Authors: Czermak Andrea , Schermelleh Lothar , Lee‐Thorp Julia
Published: August 2018

Tooth dentine serial sampling followed by isotope analyses allows detection of shifts in an individual's diet during the periods of tooth formation, providing information on breastfeeding, weaning, and childhood nutrition. Current sampling methods, however, do not fully capture the potential resolution of dentine increments because of the difficulties caused by the conical growth pattern, and changes in growth rate during tooth development resulting in uncertain timing. Here, we present an imaging‐assisted microsampling approach that takes the biological growth pattern of dentine into account in an effort to improve temporal resolution. We used high‐resolution light microscopy images of first molar longitudinal thin sections to generate an accurate optical reference of growth pattern and formulated a new scheme to assign collected microsamples to age. This allowed us to track dietary changes over more precisely confined and shorter time periods, providing greater detail and resolution for the breastfeeding and weaning process. We applied our method to track early life dietary history in four individuals from a small cemetery in Alsace, France, dated to the early 5th century AD (the Late Antique/Migration period). Even within this short timescale, 13C/12C and 15N/14N ratio sequences suggest variability in diets and weaning periods, and hint at early maternal mobility.
How Accurate are Recalls of Self‐Weighing Frequency? Data from a 24‐Month Randomized Trial
Authors: Crane Melissa M. , Gavin Kara , Wolfson Julian , Linde Jennifer A.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Self‐weighing is an important component of self‐monitoring during weight loss. However, methods of measuring self‐weighing frequency need to be validated. This analysis compared self‐reported and objective weighing frequency.

Methods

Data came from a 24‐month randomized controlled trial. Participants received 12 months of a behavioral weight‐loss program and were randomly assigned to (1) daily self‐weighing, (2) weekly weighing, or (3) no weighing (excluded from analysis). Objective weighing frequency was measured by Wi‐Fi enabled scales, and self‐reported weighing frequency was assessed every 6 months by questionnaire. Objective weights were categorized to match the scale of the self‐report measure.

Results

At 12 months, there was 80.8% agreement between self‐reported and objective weighing frequency (weighted kappa = 0.67; P < 0.001). At 24 months, agreement decreased to 48.5% (kappa = 0.27; P < 0.001). At both time points in which disagreements occurred, self‐reported frequencies were generally greater than objectively assessed weighing. Both self‐reported and objectively assessed weighing frequency was associated with weight loss at 12 and 24 months (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Self‐reported weighing frequency is modestly correlated with objective weighing frequency; however, both are associated with weight change over time. Objective assessment of weighing frequency should be used to avoid overestimating actual frequency.
Successful hematopoietic cell transplantation in Fanconi anemia patients with renal impairment using ultra‐reduced doses of cyclophosphamide and fludarabine
Authors: Ayas Mohamad Fekredeen , Al‐Seraihi Amal , Al‐Agil Amal , Al‐Ahmari Ali , Ghemlas Ibrahim , Ayas Mouhab
Published: August 2018

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) remains until now the only curative modality for hematological manifestations in patients with Fanconi anemia (FA). The doses of alkylating agents used in the conditioning of this patient population before HCT are usually significantly decreased due to the genomic instability of the FA cells. FA patients with renal impairment represent a dilemma because of the need to further modify the conditioning regimen according to the degree of renal impairment to avoid additional toxicity. At our institution, we successfully transplanted three FA patients using an ultra‐modified regimen.
Outpatient initiation of long‐term continuous positive airway pressure in children
Authors: Amaddeo Alessandro , Frapin Annick , Touil Samira , Khirani Sonia , Griffon Lucie , Fauroux Brigitte
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Current guidelines recommend initiating continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in children during an overnight in‐hospital titration study. Due to a shortage of hospital beds and economic constraints, we started a program for outpatient initiation of CPAP in selected children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Methods

Objective CPAP compliance and efficacy were evaluated in consecutive children enrolled in an outpatient CPAP program when they fulfilled the following criteria: persistent OSA, age >6 months, stable condition, family living in the Parisian area and agreeing with a regular follow‐up.

Results

Thirty‐one children, median (range) age 8.9 years (0.8‐17.5), were included in the program. The most common diagnosis were Down syndrome (n = 7), achondroplasia (n = 3), and obesity (n = 3). Median baseline obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index (OAHI) was 12.5 events/h (5‐100). Median duration of follow‐up was 12.3 months (2.2‐25.2). Four subjects (three adolescents with Down syndrome) were not compliant at 2‐month follow‐up with a compliance <4 h/night. In the other 27 subjects, median compliance was 08:21 h:min/night (05:45‐12:20), with a median number of night use per month of 25 (18‐30). CPAP efficacy at the end of follow‐up was excellent in the compliant subjects with a median AHI of two events/h (0‐4) and normal gas exchange with CPAP therapy. Three subjects were successfully weaned from CPAP treatment during the study period.

Conclusion

Initiating CPAP in an outpatient setting in children is feasible and effective in selected subjects. A high rate of compliance can be achieved as well as a correction of OSA.
Nigella sativa extract is a potent therapeutic agent for renal inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in a rat model of unilateral ureteral obstruction
Authors: Hosseinian Sara , Ebrahimzadeh Bideskan Alireza , Shafei Mohammad Naser , Sadeghnia Hamid Reza , Soukhtanloo Mohammad , Shahraki Samira , Samadi Noshahr Zahra , Khajavi Rad Abolfazl
Published: August 2018

Unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) is a well‐established experimental model to evaluate renal interstitial fibrosis. Current study is aimed to investigate the effects of Nigella sativa (NS) extract and renin–angiotensin system (RAS) blockade against kidney damage following UUO in rats. In this study, the rats received intraperitoneal injection of losartan (15 mg/kg), captopril (30 mg/kg), and two doses of NS extract (200 and 400 mg/kg) for 18 consecutive days. At the fourth day of the experiment, laparotomy was performed, and the left ureter was ligated. Sham‐operated animals received saline as vehicle, and laparotomy without ureteral ligation was done. UUO was associated with significant increase in the expression of renal angiotensin II and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, concentration of malondialdehyde and tumor necrosis factor‐α, and the number of apoptotic cells when compared with sham group. Renal total thiol content and the activity of antioxidant enzymes were significantly reduced as compared with the sham group. However, treatment of obstructed rats with losartan, captopril, and NS extract significantly improved these renal impairments when compared with UUO group. Thus, NS extract, a potent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory herb, is a therapeutic agent to treat the UUO‐induced kidney damage comparable with the well‐known RAS inhibitors captopril and losartan.
Small‐ and large‐sized iron(II, III) oxide nanoparticles for surface‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry of small biomolecules
Authors: Olaitan Abayomi D. , Ward Savanna , Barnes Lauren F. , Yount Joseph R. , Zanca Bryan A. , Schwieg Julia I. , McCoy Alyssa L. , Molek Karen S.
Published: August 2018

Rationale

Common surface‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (SALDI) surfaces are functionalized to improve mass spectrometric detection. Such surfaces are selective to certain group(s) of compounds. The application of universal and sensitive SALDI surfaces with appropriate size/surface area is paramount. In this study, two different sizes/surface areas of Fe3O4 are compared as SALDI surfaces.

Methods

For accurate surface area comparisons, the physical properties of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles used as SALDI surfaces were determined using scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffractometry, and N2 Brunauer‐Emmet‐Teller adsorption techniques. SALDI mass spectrometry (MS) data were acquired using a time‐of‐flight (TOF) mass spectrometer operated in the linear mode and equipped with a 50‐Hz pulsed nitrogen laser (at 337 nm). Small biomolecules (adenosine, glucose, sucrose, tryptophan, and tripeptide) and a real sample (human serum) were analyzed.

Results

The average sizes/specific surface areas of the SALDI surfaces of the small‐ and large‐sized Fe3O4 nanoparticles were ~21 nm/~82 m2/g and ~39 nm/~38 m2/g, respectively. An overall ~2.0‐fold enhancement in signal‐to‐noise ratios was observed for the ionic species of the analyzed biomolecules in SALDI‐MS using small‐sized Fe3O4 in comparison to large‐sized Fe3O4 nanoparticles. MS sensitivity from adenosine calibration curves (concentration between 0.05 and 10.0 mM) was ~2.0‐fold higher for small‐sized than large‐sized Fe3O4 nanoparticles as SALDI surfaces.

Conclusions

We have shown that transition‐metal oxides such as Fe3O4 nanoparticles are suitable and efficient surfaces for SALDI‐TOF‐MS analysis of small biomolecules. We observed improvement in signal‐to‐noise ratios and detection sensitivity for the analyzed samples from SALDI surfaces using small‐sized (possessing larger surface area) than large‐sized Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
Concise Review: Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Drug Delivery: The Good, the Bad, the Ugly, and the Promise
Authors: Krueger Timothy E. G. , Thorek Daniel L. J. , Denmeade Samuel R. , Isaacs John T. , Brennen W. Nathaniel
Published: August 2018

The development of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as cell-based drug delivery vectors for numerous clinical indications, including cancer, has significant promise. However, a considerable challenge for effective translation of these approaches is the limited tumor tropism and broad biodistribution observed using conventional MSCs, which raises concerns for toxicity to nontarget peripheral tissues (i.e., the bad). Consequently, there are a variety of synthetic engineering platforms in active development to improve tumor-selective targeting via increased homing efficiency and/or specificity of drug activation, some of which are already being evaluated clinically (i.e., the good). Unfortunately, the lack of robust quantification and widespread adoption of standardized methodologies with high sensitivity and resolution has made accurate comparisons across studies difficult, which has significantly impeded progress (i.e., the ugly). Herein, we provide a concise review of active and passive MSC homing mechanisms and biodistribution postinfusion; in addition to in vivo cell tracking methodologies and strategies to enhance tumor targeting with a focus on MSC-based drug delivery strategies for cancer therapy.
Engineering an optimal wind farm using surrogate models
Authors: Mahulja Stjepan , Larsen Gunner Chr. , Elham Ali
Published: August 2018

A framework for optimal design of wind farm layouts using a surrogate‐based Dynamic Wake Meandering model is presented. The optimization platform is set‐up as a hybrid strategy combining genetic search with the gradient‐based algorithm. The design variables are the number of turbines in the layout and their relative position within the bounded area. The objective function is defined as the net present value of the wind farm's profit, thus including the relevant expenditures throughout the farm's lifespan. Results show that an optimal design is reached by maximizing investment and accepting a minor sacrifice of the wind farm performance.
Investigation of Chromophoric Behavior of Water‐Soluble LaIII‐CuII Polynuclear Metallamacrocyclic 15‐MC‐5 Complex
Authors: Zabrodina Galina S. , Katkova Marina A. , Samsonov Maxim A. , Ketkov Sergey Yu.
Published: August 2018

The visible absorption spectrum of the water soluble polynuclear metallamacrocyclic LaIII‐CuII complex La(H2O)3[15‐MCCu(II)Phalaha‐5](Cl)3 (1) based on α‐phenylalaninehydroxamic acid appears to be solvent‐ and ion‐sensitive. The copper(II) d–d transitions of the complex 1 dissolved in methanol, ethanol, water, dimethylformamide, dimethylsulfoxide, pyridine, and N‐methylpyrrolidone were studied. The chromophoric behavior of complex 1 was investigated in the presence of the Cl–, Br–, I–, HSO4–, CO32–, HCO3–, H2PO4–, CN–, SCN–, and N3– anions. A considerable change of the d–d transition of the central copper(II) atom was observed for the strongly coordinating cyanide and azide anions. In the presence of HSO4–, the d–d intensity of copper(II) also decreased significantly. The molecular structure of La2(H2O)7[15‐MCCu(II)Phalaha‐5]2(SO4)4 (2), obtained as result of the substitution of the coordinated water molecules in 1 by the SO42– anions, was investigated by X‐ray crystallography.
A General Relationship between Electric Spark and Impact Sensitivities of Nitroaromatics and Nitramines
Authors: Ferdowsi Mohammad , Yazdani Farshad , Omidkhah Mohammad Reza , Keshavarz Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2018

Abstract. Two well‐known stimuli for initiation of energetic compounds are electric spark and impact, which are closely related to many accidents in working places. It is valuable to correlate electric spark sensitivity and impact sensitivity of an energetic compound through its molecular moieties. A general approach is introduced to correlate electric spark and impact sensitivities of energetic compounds including nitroaromatics and nitramines by the use of three structural functions. The predicted results of the novel model for 45 energetic compounds containing 31 nitroaromatics and 14 nitramines are compared with two of the best available models, which are based on complex quantum mechanical approaches. The root‐mean‐square (RMS) and maximum deviations of the new model are 1.31 and 2.97 J, respectively, which are lower than total predictions by two quantum mechanical models. For further 9 energetic compounds containing complex molecular structures, where the calculated electric spark sensitivities by quantum mechanical approaches were not available, the estimated electric spark sensitivities by the new model are close to experimental data, i.e. the RMS and maximum deviations are 1.12 and 1.58 J, respectively.
The automation of next-to-leading order electroweak calculations
Authors: Frederix R. , Frixione S. , Hirschi V. , Pagani D. , Shao H.-S. , Zaro M.
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We present the key features relevant to the automated computation of all the leading- and next-to-leading order contributions to short-distance cross sections in a mixed-coupling expansion, with special emphasis on the first subleading NLO term in the QCD+EW scenario, commonly referred to as NLO EW corrections. We discuss, in particular, the FKS subtraction in the context of a mixed-coupling expansion; the extension of the FKS subtraction to processes that include final-state tagged particles, defined by means of fragmentation functions; and some properties of the complex mass scheme. We combine the present paper with the release of a new version of MadGraph5_aMC@NLO, capable of dealing with mixed-coupling expansions. We use the code to obtain illustrative inclusive and differential results for the 13-TeV LHC.
Curious aspects of three-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$ SCFTs
Authors: Gaiotto Davide , Komargodski Zohar , Wu Jingxiang
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We study the dynamics of certain 3d

$$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$

N
=
1

time reversal invariant theories. Such theories often have exact moduli spaces of supersymmetric vacua. We propose several dualities and we test these proposals by comparing the deformations and supersymmetric ground states. First, we consider a theory where time reversal symmetry is only emergent in the infrared and there exists (nonetheless) an exact moduli space of vacua. This theory has a dual description with manifest time reversal symmetry. Second, we consider some surprising facts about

$$ \mathcal{N}=2 $$

N
=
2

U(1) gauge theory coupled to two chiral superfields of charge 1. This theory is claimed to have emergent SU(3) global symmetry in the infrared. We propose a dual Wess-Zumino description (i.e. a theory of scalars and fermions but no gauge fields) with manifest SU(3) symmetry but only

$$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$

N
=
1

supersymmetry. We argue that this Wess-Zumino model must have enhanced supersymmetry in the infrared. Finally, we make some brief comments about the dynamics of

$$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$

N
=
1

SU(N) gauge theory coupled to N

f
quarks in a time reversal invariant fashion. We argue that for N

f

< N there is a moduli space of vacua to all orders in perturbation theory but it is non-perturbatively lifted.
Influence of cytochrome P450 polymorphisms on the antiplatelet effects of prasugrel in patients with non-cardioembolic stroke previously treated with clopidogrel
Authors: Kitazono Takanari , Ikeda Yasuo , Nishikawa Masakatsu , Yoshiba Satoshi , Abe Kenji , Ogawa Akira
Published: August 2018

This randomized double-blind crossover study aimed to investigate the influence of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 polymorphisms on the antiplatelet effects of prasugrel in patients with non-cardioembolic stroke treated with clopidogrel. Patients received clopidogrel 75 mg/day for > 4 weeks. Subsequently, patients received prasugrel 3.75 mg/day (group A;n = 64) or 2.5 mg/day (group B;n = 65) for 4 weeks followed by a 4 week switched-dose regimen. To assess the influence of CYP2C19 polymorphisms, patients were classified as extensive metabolizers (EMs), intermediate metabolizers (IMs), and poor metabolizers (PMs). The primary endpoint was P2Y12reaction units (PRU) at the end of each 4 week treatment. A significant reduction in PRU was noted after treatment with prasugrel 3.75 mg/day compared with the pre-dose value (after treatment with clopidogrel) (p < 0.0001). By CYP2C19 phenotypes, a significant reduction in PRU was noted in IMs and PMs after treatment with prasugrel 3.75 mg/day and in PMs after treatment with prasugrel 2.5 mg/day, as compared with the pre-dose value (p < 0.0001). The plasma concentration of the active metabolite of clopidogrel was relatively low in PMs compared to EMs and IMs; prasugrel was similar across all CYP2C19 phenotypes. No major or clinically significant hemorrhagic adverse events occurred. By CYP2C19 phenotype, the antiplatelet effects of prasugrel were greater with 3.75 mg/day in IMs and PMs, and with 2.5 mg/day in PMs compared with clopidogrel 75 mg/day, without safety concerns. CYP2C19 polymorphisms did not affect the plasma concentration of the active metabolite of prasugrel or its antiplatelet effects. (JapicCTI-101044).
Ronald Dworkin and the Curious Case of the Floodgates Argument
Authors: Gur Noam
Published: August 2018

This article juxtaposes a jurisprudential thesis and a practical problem in an attempt to gain critical insight into both. The jurisprudential thesis is Dworkin’s rights thesis. The practical problem revolves around judicial resort to the floodgates argument in civil adjudication (or, more specifically, a version of this argument focused on adjudicative resources, which is dubbed here the FA). The analysis yields three principal observations: (1) Judicial resort to the FA is discordant with the rights thesis. (2) The rights thesis is instructive in one way but mistaken in another. While Dworkin has highlighted some valid and sound reasons against judicial policymaking, his conclusive exclusion of judicial policymaking from civil law adjudication is erroneous. Civil law adjudication, it is argued, is an arena of ineliminable tension between principle and policy. (3) The FA is a type of policy argument particularly vulnerable to objections against judicial policymaking. There should, therefore, be a (rebuttable) presumption against judicial resort to it.
Modulation of the regeneration cycle by neutrally buoyant finite-size particles
Authors: Wang G. , Abbas M. , Climent E.
Published: August 2018

Direct numerical simulations of turbulent suspension flows are carried out with the force-coupling method in plane Couette and pressure-driven channel configurations. Dilute to moderately concentrated suspensions of neutrally buoyant finite-size spherical particles are considered when the Reynolds number is slightly above the laminar–turbulent transition. Tests performed with synthetic streaks, in both turbulent channel and Couette flows, show clearly that particles trigger the instability in channel flow whereas the plane Couette flow becomes laminar. Moreover, we have shown that particles have a pronounced impact on pressure-driven flow through a detailed temporal and spatial analysis whereas they have no significant impact on the plane Couette flow configuration. The substantial difference between the two flow configurations is related to the spatial preferential distribution of particles in the large-scale rolls (inactive motion) in Couette flow, whereas they are accumulated in the ejection (active motion) regions in pressure-driven flow. Through investigation of particle modification in two distinct flow configurations, we were able to show the specific response of turbulent structures and the modulation of the fundamental mechanisms composing the regeneration cycle in the buffer layer of the near-wall turbulence. Especially for pressure-driven flow, the particles enhance the lift-up and let it act continuously whereas the particles do not significantly alter the streak breakdown process. The reinforcement of the streamwise vortices is attributed to the vorticity stretching term by the wavy streaks. The smaller and more numerous wavy streaks enhance the vorticity stretching and consequently strengthen the circulation of large-scale streamwise vortices in suspension flow.
Harnessing the Kelvin–Helmholtz instability: feedback stabilization of an inviscid vortex sheet
Authors: Protas Bartosz , Sakajo Takashi
Published: August 2018

In this investigation, we use a simple model of the dynamics of an inviscid vortex sheet given by the Birkhoff–Rott equation to obtain fundamental insights about the potential for stabilization of shear layers using feedback control. As actuation, we consider two arrays of point sinks/sources located a certain distance above and below the vortex sheet and subject to the constraint that their mass fluxes separately add up to zero. First, we demonstrate using analytical computations that the Birkhoff–Rott equation linearized around the flat-sheet configuration is in fact controllable when the number of actuator pairs is sufficiently large relative to the number of discrete degrees of freedom present in the system, a result valid for generic actuator locations. Next, we design a state-based linear-quadratic regulator stabilization strategy, where the key difficulty is the numerical solution of the Riccati equation in the presence of severe ill-conditioning resulting from the properties of the Birkhoff–Rott equation and the chosen form of actuation, an issue that is overcome by performing computations with a suitably increased arithmetic precision. Analysis of the linear closed-loop system reveals exponential decay of the perturbation energy and the corresponding actuation energy in all cases. Computations performed for the nonlinear closed-loop system demonstrate that initial perturbations of non-negligible amplitude can be effectively stabilized when a sufficient number of actuators is used. We also thoroughly analyse the sensitivity of the closed-loop stabilization strategies to the variation of a number of key parameters. Subject to the known limitations of inviscid vortex models, our findings indicate that, in principle, it may be possible to stabilize shear layers for relatively large initial perturbations, provided that the actuation has sufficiently many degrees of freedom.
Thermocapillary instability as a mechanism for film boiling collapse
Authors: Aursand Eskil , Davis Stephen H. , Ytrehus Tor
Published: August 2018

We construct a model to investigate the interfacial stability of film boiling, and discover that instability of very thin vapour films and subsequent large interface superheating is only possible if thermocapillary instabilities are present. The model concerns horizontal saturated film boiling, and includes novel features such as non-equilibrium evaporation based on kinetic theory, thermocapillary and vapour thrust stresses and van der Waals interactions. From linear stability analysis applied to this model, we are led to suggest that vapour film collapse depends on a balance between thermocapillary instabilities and vapour thrust stabilization. This yields a purely theoretical prediction of the Leidenfrost temperature. Given that the evaporation coefficient is in the range 0.7–1.0, this model is consistent with the average Leidenfrost temperature of every fluid for which data could be found. With an evaporation coefficient of 0.85, the model can predict the Leidenfrost point within 10 % error for every fluid, including cryogens and liquid metals where existing models and correlations fail.
Potential vorticity redistribution by localised transient forcing in the shallow-water model
Authors: Haigh Michael C. , Berloff Pavel S.
Published: August 2018

This study is motivated by the need to develop stochastic parameterisations for representing the effects of mesoscale oceanic eddies in non-eddy-resolving and eddy-permitting ocean circulation models. A necessary logical step on the way to such parameterisations is the understanding of flow responses to spatially stationary and localised, time-dependent ‘plunger’ forcings intended to represent transient eddy flux divergences. Specifically, this study develops an understanding of the plunger-induced convergence of potential vorticity (PV) fluxes using the linearised single-layer shallow-water model. Time-periodic solutions are obtained and the ‘footprint’, defined as the time-mean, quasi-linear PV flux convergence, quantifies the cumulative PV redistribution induced by the plunger. Using the footprint, the equivalent eddy flux (EEF) is defined such that it succinctly quantifies the extent of the PV redistribution, and its dependencies on the forcing latitude and the background flow are examined in detail. For a uniform background flow the EEF is positive for all forcing latitudes, corresponding to net-poleward PV flux convergence, as expected by current theory of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}$-plane Rossby waves. The EEF also has a robust dependence on the direction and magnitude of a uniform background flow, which is a useful quality for the EEF to provide a basis for a parameterisation of eddy PV fluxes. We also examine the PV redistribution due to forcing on top of a Gaussian jet background flow and find that forcing proximity to the jet core is the primary factor in determining whether the jet is sharpened or broadened.
West End Chapel, Back Street Bethel: Labour and Capital in the Wigan Churches of Christ c. 1845–1945
Authors: Ackers Peter
Published: August 2018

There is a large and complex literature regarding the part played by working-class Nonconformity in the industrial revolution and the emergence of the English labour movement. For all its nuances, this writing can be separated into two main strands. The first, broadly Marxist, perspective sees working-class Nonconformity primarily as a form of capitalist control, inculcating bourgeois norms of hard work, thrift, respectability and political moderation into the working class. However, even labour historians who subscribe to this view cannot help but be struck by the ubiquitous accounts of lay preachers at the forefront of Victorian labour movement campaigns, especially in the coalfields. Thus, the second view stresses the part played by working-class Nonconformists in leading their class towards political and industrial emancipation. To a considerable extent, the stance taken, particularly on Methodism, depends on whether writers draw their evidence from national, usually middle-class, denominational hierarchies, or from local accounts of working-class religiosity.
On the exploration of graphical and analytical investigation of effect of critical beam power on self-focusing of cosh-Gaussian laser beams in collisionless magnetized plasma
Authors: Urunkar T. U. , Patil S. D. , Valkunde A. T. , Vhanmore B. D. , Gavade K. M. , Takale M. V.
Published: August 2018

The paper gives graphical and analytical investigation of the effect of critical beam power on self-focusing of cosh-Gaussian laser beams in collisionless magnetized plasma under ponderomotive non-linearity. The standard Akhmanov's parabolic equation approach under Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) and paraxial approximations is employed to investigate the propagation of cosh-Gaussian laser beams in collisionless magnetized plasma. Especially, the concept of numerical intervals and turning points of critical beam power has evolved through graphical analysis of beam-width parameter differential equation of cosh-Gaussian laser beams. The results are discussed in the light of numerical intervals and turning points.
Design and application of an adaptive backstepping sliding mode controller for a six-DOF quadrotor aerial robot
Authors: Basri Mohd Ariffanan Mohd
Published: August 2018

The quadrotor aerial robot is a complex system and its dynamics involve nonlinearity, uncertainty, and coupling. In this paper, an adaptive backstepping sliding mode control (ABSMC) is presented for stabilizing, tracking, and position control of a quadrotor aerial robot subjected to external disturbances. The developed control structure integrates a backstepping and a sliding mode control approach. A sliding surface is introduced in a Lyapunov function of backstepping design in order to further improve robustness of the system. To attenuate a chattering problem, a saturation function is used to replace a discontinuous sign function. Moreover, to avoid a necessity for knowledge of a bound of external disturbance, an online adaptation law is derived. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm has been adopted to find parameters of the controller. Simulations using a dynamic model of a six degrees of freedom (DOF) quadrotor aerial robot show the effectiveness of the approach in performing stabilization and position control even in the presence of external disturbances.
ON EXTROPY PROPERTIES OF MIXED SYSTEMS
Authors: Qiu Guoxin , Wang Lechen , Wang Xingyu
Published: August 2018

An expression of the extropy of a mixed system's lifetime was given firstly. Based on this expression, two mixed systems with same signature but with different components were compared. It was shown that the extropy of lifetime of a mixed system equals to that of its dual system if the lifetimes of the components have symmetric probability density function. Moreover, some bounds of the extropy of lifetimes of mixed systems were obtained and the concept of Jensen–extropy (JE) divergence of mixed systems was proposed. The JE divergence is non-negative and it can be used as an alternative information criteria for comparing mixed systems with homogeneous components. To illustrate the applications of JE divergence, some examples are addressed at the end of this paper.
THE NONLINEAR NATURE OF COUNTRY RISK AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR DSGE MODELS
Authors: Brzoza-Brzezina Michał , Kotłowski Jacek
Published: August 2018

Country risk premia can substantially affect macroeconomic dynamics. We concentrate on one of their most important determinants—a country’s net foreign asset (NFA) position and—in contrast to the existing research—investigate its nonlinear link to risk premia. The importance of this particular nonlinearity is two-fold. First, it allows to identify the NFA level above which the elasticity becomes much (possibly dangerously) higher. Second, such a nonlinear relationship is a standard ingredient of dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) models, but its proper calibration/estimation is missing. Our estimation shows that indeed the link is highly nonlinear and helps to identify the NFA position where the nonlinearity kicks in at approximately −70% to −75% of GDP. We also provide a proper calibration of the risk premium—NFA relationship which can be used in DSGE models and demonstrate that its slope matters significantly for economic dynamics in such a model.
Basic Income in the UK: Assessing Prospects for Reform in an Age of Austerity
Authors: Martinelli Luke , Pearce Nick
Published: August 2018

Of all the European welfare states, the UK most clearly represents the liberal regime type – notwithstanding a shift towards ‘social investment’ under New Labour – as defined by its residual, targeted benefit structure and increasingly punitive activation regime. The idiosyncratic institutional characteristics of the UK welfare state give rise to challenges and opportunities with respect to prospects for the introduction of (some form of) basic income. Despite a large and growing population of ‘disaffected’ precarious and low-paid workers and widespread dissatisfaction with the increasingly punitive sanctions regime, significant barriers to the emergence of a sufficiently large and coherent constituency of support for basic income remain. Thus, while institutional inertia and political considerations may preclude anything more than marginal changes to the existing system, a number of policy options falling short of a ‘full’ basic income – but retaining some of its core features – appear relatively feasible.
Cross-cultural validation of the Brazilian version of the spiritual care competence scale
Authors: Dezorzi Luciana Winterkorn , Raymundo Márcia Mocellin , Goldim José Roberto , van Leeuwen René
Published: August 2018

Objective

This study describes the cross-cultural validation and psychometric evaluation of the Spiritual Care Competence Scale – Brazilian Portuguese version. This reliable and valid instrument is recommended in the literature to measure the outcomes of the education process in the development of spiritual care competences.

Method

This is a cross-sectional validation study following the stages proposed by Beaton et al.: translation into Portuguese, back translation into English, expert committee review for semantic equivalence, assessment of the clarity of the pre-final version, and evaluation of the psychometric properties of the final version in Portuguese. Health professionals working at a public hospital in South Brazil participated in the different stages of this study.

Result

Regarding internal consistency, total Cronbach's alpha was 0.92 and the mean inter-item correlation was 0.29. The test-retest procedure showed no statistically significant differences in the six subscales. The intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.67 to 0.84, demonstrating the stability of the scale.

Significance of results

The results support the psychometric quality of the scale and indicate that the adapted instrument is a valid and reliable scale with good internal consistency for measuring spiritual care competencies of health professionals in Brazilian healthcare settings.
Wernicke encephalopathy in a lung cancer patient during treatment with nivolumab
Authors: Onishi Hideki , Ishida Mayumi , Kagamu Hiroshi , Murayama Yoshitake , Kobayashi Kunihiko , Sato Izumi , Uchida Nozomu , Akechi Tatsuo
Published: August 2018

Objective

Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a neuropsychiatric disorder caused by thiamine deficiency. It is recognized in various stages of the cancer trajectory but has not previously been recognized during nivolumab treatment.

Method

From a series of WE patients with cancer, we report a lung cancer patient who developed WE during treatment with nivolumab.

Result

A 78-year-old woman with lung cancer was referred to our psycho-oncology clinic because of depressed mood. Psychiatric examination revealed disorientation to time, date, and place, which had not been recognized 1 month previously. Her symptoms fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for delirium. No laboratory findings or drugs explaining her delirium were identified. WE was suspected as she experienced a loss of appetite lasting 4 weeks. This diagnosis was supported by abnormal serum thiamine and the disappearance of delirium after intravenous thiamine administration.

Significance of results

We found WE in an advanced lung cancer patient receiving treatment with nivolumab. Further study revealed the association between nivolumab and thiamine deficiency. Oncologists should consider thiamine deficiency when a patient experiences a loss of appetite of more than 2 weeks regardless of the presence or absence of delirium.