bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vibrational spectra of the rare‐occurring complex hydrogen arsenate minerals pharmacolite, picropharmacolite, and vladimirite: Dominance of Raman over IR spectroscopy to discriminate arsenate and hydrogen arsenate units
Authors: Makreski Petre , Todorov Jovica , Makrievski Vasil , Pejov Ljupčo , Jovanovski Gligor
Published: January 2018

This work represents the first complete experimental and theoretical study of the infrared (IR) spectra of pharmacolite, Ca(AsO3OH)·2H2O; vladimirite, Ca4(AsO3OH)(AsO4)2·4H2O; and picropharmacolite, Ca4Mg(AsO3OH)2(AsO4)2·11H2O. IR spectra, collected at both room and liquid nitrogen temperature, have shown similar spectral view among minerals in the region of ν1 to ν4 modes, surprisingly not involving complexity in vladimirite and picropharmacolite spectral view due to the presence of both AsO3OH and AsO4 units compared to pharmacolite where only AsO3OH units appear in the structure. On the other hand, vladimirite and picropharmacolite Raman spectra in the corresponding ν1 to ν4 region (955–350 cm−1) exhibit existence of 3 sets of 2 bands (6 in total) completely reflecting the existence of 3 symmetrically nonequivalent AsO4 groups in the structures of vladimirite and picropharmacolite (of which one is protonated) and only one set of ν1 to ν4 bands from the structurally equivalent AsO3OH units in the pharmacolite structure. The liquid nitrogen temperature IR spectra enabled to infer important information regarding the OH vibrational bands related to the AsO3OH groups and to the water molecules. Essentially, all bands in the vibrational spectra were assigned and correlated with the findings for a plethora of structurally similar complex hydrogen arsenate minerals. To support the tentative assignment of bands in the vibrational spectra, quantum theoretical calculations were performed within the framework of density functional theory. On the basis of theoretical calculations, a few reassignments of bands appearing in the OH stretching region are proposed. X‐ray powder diffraction was used to confirm authenticity of the title systems.
Quantifying nitrate dynamics in a mesotrophic lake using triple oxygen isotopes as tracers
Authors: Tsunogai Urumu , Miyauchi Takanori , Ohyama Takuya , Komatsu Daisuke D. , Ito Masanori , Nakagawa Fumiko
Published: January 2018

Vertical distributions of both concentrations and stable isotopic compositions of nitrate, including the 17O‐excesses (Δ17O), were determined four times during 1 yr within the mesotrophic water column of Lake Biwa in Japan. By using both the deposition rate of atmospheric nitrate onto the entire surface of the lake and the influx/efflux of both atmospheric and remineralized nitrate via streams reported in the literature, we quantified the annual dynamics of nitrate (gross production rate of nitrate through nitrification and gross metabolic rate of nitrate through assimilation and denitrification), together with their seasonal variations, based on the Δ17O method. The results revealed that 642 ± 113 Mmol (Mmol = 106 mol) of the remineralized nitrate was supplied into the water column through nitrification in the lake on an annual basis, while 810 ± 120 Mmol of nitrate was metabolized in the lake through assimilation and denitrification. In addition, it turns out that nitrification was active, not only in the hypolimnion, but also in the epilimnion and upper thermocline in this lake. Furthermore, the total metabolic rates of nitrate varied seasonally, with the highest rates in summer and the lowest in winter. Because the difference between the annual metabolic rate of nitrate estimated based on the Δ17O method and the annual assimilation rate of nitrate estimated based on the traditional 15N incubation method was only 20%, we concluded that the Δ17O method reliably estimates the dynamics of nitrate in mesotrophic lakes.
Identification of fish source Vibrio alginolyticus and evaluation of its bacterial ghosts vaccine immune effects
Authors: Cao Ji , Zhang Jiajun , Ma Lin , Li Lin , Zhang Wenchang , Li Jinnian
Published: January 2018

Vibrio alginolyticus (V. alginolyticus) is a common pathogen for humans and marine aquatic animals. Vibriosis of marine aquatic animals, caused by V. alginolyticus, has become more prevalent globally in recent years. Hence, a safe and effective vaccine is urgently needed for the control of this disease. Here, the strain 16‐3 isolated from the large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) suffered from canker was identified as V. alginolyticus based on morphological, biochemical, and 16S rDNA sequencing analysis. Then, recombinant temperature‐controlled lysis plasmid pBV220‐lysisE was electroporated into the strain 16‐3 to generate V. alginolyticus bacterial ghosts (VaBGs) by inducing lysis gene E expression, and the safety and immune effects of VaBGs were further investigated in mice and large yellow croaker. The results showed that VaBGs were as safe as formalin‐killed V. alginolyticus cells (FKC) to mice and fish. Compared with FKC and PBS groups, significant elevations of the serum agglutinating antibody titer, serum bactericidal activity, lymphocyte proliferative responses, and levels of four different cytokines (Th1 type: IL‐2, TNF‐α; Th2 type: IL‐4 and IL‐6) in serum were detected in the VaBGs group, indicating that a Th1/Th2‐mediated mixed immune response was elicited by the VaBGs. More importantly, after challenged with the parent strain 16‐3, VaBGs‐vaccinated mice and fish showed higher protection than FKC‐vaccinated mice, the relative percent of survival (RPS) being 60%, 66.7% and 40%, respectively. Taken together, this is the first demonstration that the newly constructed V. alginolyticus ghosts may be developed as a safe and effective vaccine against V. alginolyticus infection in aquaculture.
Untangling the complexity of limb‐girdle muscular dystrophies
Authors: Liewluck Teerin , Milone Margherita
Published: January 2018

The limb‐girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs) are a group of genetically heterogeneous, autosomal inherited muscular dystrophies with a childhood to adult onset, manifesting with hip‐ and shoulder‐girdle muscle weakness. When the term LGMD was first conceptualized in 1954, it was thought to be a single entity. Currently, there are 8 autosomal dominant (LGMD1A–1H) and 26 autosomal recessive (LGMD2A–2Z) variants according to the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man database. In addition, there are other genetically identified muscular dystrophies with an LGMD phenotype not yet classified as LGMD. This highlights the entanglement of LGMDs, which represents an area in continuous expansion. Herein we aim to simplify the complexity of LGMDs by subgrouping them on the basis of the underlying defective protein and impaired function. Muscle Nerve 58: 167–177, 2018
Wavelet Galerkin schemes for higher order time dependent partial differential equations
Authors: Priyadarshi Gopal , Rathish Kumar Bayya Venkatesulu
Published: January 2018

Fourth‐order derivatives appearing in different linear and nonlinear transient higher order multidimensional equations modeling several physical problems have always posed computational challenges to widely prevailing numerical approaches such as FDM, FEM, and so forth. In this study, we address the issue effectively using the special features of Daubechies wavelets such as orthogonality, compact support, arbitrary regularity, high‐order vanishing moments, and good localization. An efficient compression strategy is proposed to reduce the computational cost significantly. Implicitly stable backward Euler scheme is used for time marching the evolving solution. A priori error estimates have been derived to prove the convergence of the numerical scheme. The proposed approach is successfully tested on few linear and nonlinear multidimensional PDEs.
Alveolar soft part sarcoma in children and young adults: A report of 69 cases
Authors: Flores Ricardo J. , Harrison Douglas J. , Federman Noah C. , Furman Wayne L. , Huh Winston W. , Broaddus Emily G. , Okcu Mehmet F. , Venkatramani Rajkumar
Published: January 2018

Background

Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) is a rare mesenchymal tumor characterized by ASPL‐TFE3 translocation. Apart from complete surgical resection, there is no standard management strategy.

Procedure

The clinical data of 69 children and young adults less than 30 years old with ASPS diagnosed from 1980–2014 were retrospectively collected from four major institutions.

Results

Median age at diagnosis was 17 years (range: 1.5–30). Forty‐four (64%) were female. Median follow‐up was 46 months (range: 1–409). Most common primary sites were limbs (58%) and trunk (24%). ASPL‐TFE3 translocation was present in all 26 patients tested. IRS postsurgical staging was I in 19 (28%), II in 7 (10%), III in 5 (7%), and IV in 38 (55%) patients. The 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were 38% and 72%, respectively. The 5‐year EFS and OS were 80% and 87%, respectively, for the 31 patients with localized tumors (IRS‐I‐II‐III), and 7% and 61%, respectively, for the 38 patients with metastatic tumors (IRS‐IV). Of 11 IRS‐IV patients who received targeted therapy upfront, two had partial response, six had stable disease, and three had progressive disease. Median time to progression for IRS‐IV patients was 12 months for those treated with targeted therapy, 7 months for cytotoxic chemotherapy (N = 15), and 4 months for observation only (N = 6).

Conclusion

Localized ASPS has a good prognosis after gross total resection. ASPS is resistant to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Although there are no curative therapies for patients with metastatic disease, prolonged disease stabilization may be achieved with targeted therapies.
Patterns of Internet‐based health information seeking in adult survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Claridy Mechelle D. , Hudson Melissa M. , Caplan Lee , Mitby Pauline A. , Leisenring Wendy , Smith Selina A. , Robison Leslie L. , Mertens Ann C.
Published: January 2018

Background

To assess where, when, and why survivors of childhood cancer seek health information.

Procedure

Data from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) cohort (n = 1386) and Health Information National Trends Survey (n = 2385) were analyzed to determine the health information seeking strategies of childhood cancer survivors. Descriptive frequencies, χ2 analyses, t‐tests, and multivariable logistic regression models were used.

Results

To seek health‐related information for themselves, 54% (n = 742) of the childhood survivors reported using the Internet in the past 12 months, compared to 45% of the general population (adjusted OR: 2.76; 95% CI: 2.40–3.19). Childhood cancer survivors who used the Internet for health information were more likely to be female, between the ages of 18–34, have received some college education or be a college graduate, and report being in poor health. Although survivors were less likely than the general population to trust health information from the Internet (P < 0.01), they indicated that they would like a secure website that uses information from their medical records to provide individualized health‐related information.

Conclusion

The use of the Internet to access health information among the childhood cancer survivors was over 50%. Information on late effects was a high priority for most survivors, as was their interest in websites related to late effects and a website on patient information tailored to personal situations. Identification of factors associated with searching the Internet for cancer information may provide direction for development of effective cancer communication interventions for this at‐risk population.
A prospective study of family predictors of health‐related quality of life in pediatric brain tumor survivors
Authors: Quast Lauren F. , Phillips Peter C. , Li Yimei , Kazak Anne E. , Barakat Lamia P. , Hocking Matthew C.
Published: January 2018

Background

The objective of this study was to examine prospectively the associations between family functioning at the end of tumor‐directed treatment and the health‐related quality of life (HRQL) of pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTSs) approximately 9 months later.

Procedure

Thirty‐five PBTS (age 6–16 years) and their mothers completed measures of family functioning and survivor HRQL within 5 months of completing tumor‐directed therapy (baseline) and again approximately 9 months later (follow‐up).

Results

Survivor‐rated general family functioning at baseline significantly predicted mother proxy‐ and self‐reported survivor HRQL at follow‐up when controlling for survivor HRQL at baseline and relevant demographic and treatment‐related variables.

Conclusions

Family functioning is a key factor contributing to survivor HRQL and should be screened throughout the course of tumor‐directed treatment. Psychosocial interventions directed toward improving general family functioning may improve survivor well‐being following the completion of treatment.
Preclinical QSP Modeling in the Pharmaceutical Industry: An IQ Consortium Survey Examining the Current Landscape
Authors: Nijsen Marjoleen J.M.A. , Wu Fan , Bansal Loveleena , Bradshaw‐Pierce Erica , Chan Jason R. , Liederer Bianca M. , Mettetal Jerome T. , Schroeder Patricia , Schuck Edgar , Tsai Alice , Xu Christine , Chimalakonda Anjaneya , Le Kha , Penney Mark , Topp Brian , Yamada Akihiro , Spilker Mary E.
Published: January 2018

A cross‐industry survey was conducted to assess the landscape of preclinical quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) modeling within pharmaceutical companies. This article presents the survey results, which provide insights on the current state of preclinical QSP modeling in addition to future opportunities. Our results call attention to the need for an aligned definition and consistent terminology around QSP, yet highlight the broad applicability and benefits preclinical QSP modeling is currently delivering.
Robotic‐assisted coronary artery bypass surgery: an 18‐year single‐centre experience
Authors: Giambruno Vincenzo , Chu Michael W. , Fox Stephanie , Swinamer Stuart A. , Rayman Reiza , Markova Zarina , Barnfield Rebecca , Cooper Mitchell , Boyd Douglas W. , Menkis Alan , Kiaii Bob
Published: January 2018

Background

Minimally invasive robot‐assisted direct coronary artery bypass (RADCAB) has emerged as a feasible minimally invasive surgical technique for revascularization that might offer several potential advantages over conventional approaches. We present our 18‐year experience in RADCAB.

Methods

Between February 1998 and February 2016, 605 patients underwent RADCAB. Patients underwent post‐procedural selective graft patency assessment using cardiac catheterization.

Results

The mortality rate was 0.3%. The rate of conversion to sternotomy for any cause was reduced from 16.0% of the first 200 cases to 6.9% of the last 405 patients. The patency rate of the LITA‐to‐LAD anastomosis was 97.4%. Surgical re‐exploration for bleeding occurred in 1.8% of patients, and the transfusion rate was 9.2%. Average ICU stay was 1.2 ± 1.4 days, and average hospital stay was 4.8 ± 2.9 days.

Conclusions

Robot‐assisted coronary artery bypass grafting is safe, feasible and it seems to represent an effective alternative to traditional coronary artery bypass grafting in selected patients.
A 3D Microporous MOF with mab Topology for Selective CO2 Adsorption and Separation
Authors: Pal Arun , Lin Jian‐Bin , Chand Santanu , Das Madhab C.
Published: January 2018

A three dimensional MOF, {[Zn(OBA)(L)0.5].DMA}n (IITKGP‐7, IITKGP stands for Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur), has been synthesized by the combination of a V‐shaped organic acid linker (H2OBA=4, 4′‐oxybisbenzoic acid) with flexible N,N‐donor spacer (L=2,5‐bis(3‐pyridyl)‐3,4 – diaza‐2,4‐hexadiene), forming a network with mab topology (DMA=N, N‐dimethylacetamide). This MOF is characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), elemental analysis (EA), powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) and single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The framework exhibits rhombus‐shaped channels of approximate size of 5.3 Å x 6.4 Å along crystallographic b axis with a potential solvent accessible volume of 31.8%. Gas sorption measurements of the evacuated framework shows preferential uptake of CO2 at 273 and 295 K under 1 bar over N2 and CH4. Calculations based on ideal adsorbed solution theory (IAST) show that the selectivity values of CO2/N2 (15:85) are 57 at 273 K and 121.4 at 295 K, whereas CO2/CH4 (50:50) selectivity values are 8.4 at 273 K and 8.8 at 295 K under 1 bar. The high CO2 separation selectivity over N2 and CH4 makes this MOF a potential candidate for CO2 separation from flue gas mixture and landfill gas mixture.
Solution Processable 1D Fullerene C60 Crystals for Visible Spectrum Photodetectors
Authors: Saran Rinku , Curry Richard J.
Published: January 2018

Visible spectrum photodetector devices fabricated using molecular crystals of carbon C60 are reported. The devices operate efficiently, extending over and beyond the full visible light spectrum (300–710 nm) with a bias voltage tunable responsivity of 4 mA–0.5 mA W−1. Across this range of wavelengths, the noise equivalent power of these devices remains below 102 nW Hz−1/2, providing a detectivity of 107 Jones. The noise current in these devices is found to have a strong dependence on both bias voltage and frequency, varying by 4 orders of magnitude from 1 nA Hz−1/2 to 0.1 pA Hz−1/2. The devices also display a near‐linear dependence of photocurrent on light intensity over 4 orders of magnitude, providing a dynamic range approaching 80 dB. The 3 dB bandwidth of the devices is found to be above 102 Hz, while the 18 dB bandwidth exceeds 1 kHz. The transient photocurrents of the devices have a rise time of ≈50 µs and a long fall time of ≈4 ms. The spectral photocurrent of the devices is found to quench gradually with a reduction in temperature from ≈300 K and is fully quenched at temperatures below T ≈ 100 K. Upon reheating, the device performance is fully recovered.
The developmental trinity of mind: Cognizance, executive control, and reasoning
Authors: Demetriou Andreas , Makris Nikolaos , Kazi Smaragda , Spanoudis George , Shayer Michael
Published: January 2018

This paper summarizes research on how cognizance, that is, awareness of mental processes, interacts with executive control and reasoning from childhood to adolescence. Central positions are that (a) cognizance changes extensively with age; (b) it contributes to the formation of executive control, and (c) mediates between executive control and reasoning. Cognizance recycles with changes in executive and inferential possibilities in four developmental cycles: it registers their present state, yielding insight into their operation, allowing their better management; this catalyzes their transformation into the next level. Implications for theory of intellectual development and practical implications for education are discussed.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Development and Aging

Neuroscience > Cognition

Neuroscience > Development

Philosophy > Consciousness
Who was Dr. William C. Baum?
Authors: Ladd Mitchell R. , Zeiger Martha A.
Published: January 2018

The first discovery of primary hyperaldosteronism secondary to an aldosterone‐secreting adrenal adenoma has been credited solely to Dr. Jerome Conn, an endocrinologist at the University of Michigan and for whom, Conn syndrome was named. Dr. William Baum, a urologist at the University of Michigan, however, was instrumental in the appropriate operation and historical aldosteronoma resection. Despite Dr. Baum’s important role in this discovery, he was never included as an author in any of the subsequent papers describing Conn syndrome and, few today would recognize his name. So, who was Dr. Baum and what happened? This historical article aims to revisit the history surrounding the discovery of aldosteronoma as a cause of Conn’s syndrome and to catalog the life and involvement of Dr. William C. Baum in that discovery.
Immobilization of Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b for methanol production
Authors: Taylor Anne , Molzahn Paige , Bushnell Tanner , Cheney Clint , LaJeunesse Monique , Azizian Mohamad , Semprini Lewis
Published: January 2018

Due to the natural gas boom in North America, there is renewed interest in the production of other chemical products from methane. We investigated the feasibility of immobilizing the obligate methanotrophic bacterium Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b in alginate beads, and selectively inactivating methanol dehydrogenase (MDH) with cyclopropane to produce methanol. In batch cultures and in semi-continuous flow columns, the exposure of alginate-immobilized cells to cyclopropane or cyclopropanol resulted in the loss of the majority of MDH activity (> 80%), allowing methanol to accumulate to significant concentrations while retaining all of M. trichosporium OB3b’s methane monooxygenase capacity. Thereafter, the efficiency of methanol production fell due to recovery of most of the MDH activity; however, subsequent inhibition periods resulted in renewed methanol production efficiency, and immobilized cells retained methane-oxidizing activity for at least 14 days.
Biochemical changes and clinical outcomes in 34 patients with classic galactosemia
Authors: Yuzyuk Tatiana , Viau Krista , Andrews Ashley , Pasquali Marzia , Longo Nicola
Published: January 2018

Impaired activity of galactose‐1‐phosphate uridyltransferase (GALT) causes galactosemia, an autosomal recessive disorder of galactose metabolism. Early initiation of a galactose‐restricted diet can prevent or resolve neonatal complications. Despite therapy, patients often experience long‐term complications including speech impairment, learning disabilities, and premature ovarian insufficiency in females. This study evaluates clinical outcomes in 34 galactosemia patients with markedly reduced GALT activity and compares outcomes between patients with different levels of mean galactose‐1‐phosphate in red blood cells (GAL1P) using logistic regression: group 1 (n = 13) GAL1P ≤1.7 mg/dL vs. group 2 (n = 21) GAL1P ≥ 2 mg/dL. Acute symptoms at birth were comparable between groups (p = 0.30) with approximately 50% of patients presenting with jaundice, liver failure, and failure‐to‐thrive. However, group 2 patients had significantly higher prevalence of negative long‐term outcomes compared to group 1 patients (p = 0.01). Only one of 11 patients >3 yo in group 1 developed neurological and severe behavioral problems of unclear etiology. In contrast, 17 of 20 patients >3 yo in group 2 presented with one or more long‐term complications associated with galactosemia. The majority of females ≥15 yo in this group also had impaired ovarian function with markedly reduced levels of anti‐Müllerian hormone. These findings suggest that galactosemia patients with higher GAL1P levels are more likely to have negative long‐term outcome. Therefore, evaluation of GAL1P levels on a galactose‐restricted diet might be helpful in providing a prognosis for galactosemia patients with rare or novel genotypes whose clinical presentations are not well known.
Seismic Moment Release Data in Earthquake Catalogue: Application of Hurst Statistics in Delineating Temporal Clustering and Seismic Vulnerability
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Basab , Sengupta Diptansu
Published: January 2018

Sequential cumulative moment release data of macro-earthquakes (Mw≥4.3) of seventeen seismic zones (A to Q) belonging to NE-Himalaya, Burmese-Andaman arc and West-Sunda arc are analysed by Hurst analysis, a non-parametric statistical procedure to identify clustering of low and high values in a time series. The moment release in a zone occurs in alternate positive, negative and positive sloping segments forming a wave like pattern with intervening small horizontal segment. The negative sloping segments indicate decelerated moment release pattern or temporal slackening of elastic strain release with high b–value (>0.95). The horizontal segment indicates temporal clustering of moderate magnitude events/seismic moments with moderate b-values (0.8–0.95). The positive segment is characterised by accelerated moment release within a short span of time indicating temporal clustering of larger magnitude earthquakes/seismic moments and exhibit lowest b–value (<0.7). All zones attest moderate to high Hurst K values, range 0.7-0.86. The pattern in Hurst plots, specially a reversal of trend after prolong negative slope is used for earthquake prognostication in the seismic zones. Our analysis shows that most of the zones register a notable reversal of Hurst clustering trend after a prolonged negative slope which is accompanied by a major earthquake near its end. However, South Burma region (Zone-I) and Tripura fold belt and Bangladesh Plain (Zone-K) do not show any moderate or large shock around the end of the negative sloping trend in Hurst plot. Hence, these two zones can be considered more prone to produce moderate to larger earthquakes in future.
Structural Data Extraction from Stereographic or Equal Area Projections using Image Processing
Authors: Singhal Vaibhav , Misra Surajit , Gupta Saibal
Published: January 2018

Structural orientation data from the field are commonly represented on stereographic or equal area projections, and the raw data are usually not accessible to other workers for integration into larger datasets or comparative study. We have developed a technique for retrieving raw planar structural data from the above projection types using image analysis techniques. The principle involves two steps: (i) conversion of the foliation pole plots in the image into Cartesian coordinates, and (ii) inversion of the data so-obtained into a geographic reference frame. The process involves either scanning of the target projection, or cropping of the projection figure from a pdf file using image processing software, followed by tracing of the data points and generation of an image file that can be subsequently input into a MATLAB supported program, “StrucExtract”. The results from the program are displayed in the form of dips and dip directions. The program has been tested with synthetic and natural examples, and may be invaluable for retrieval of structural data from older structural literature.
Lithium Enrichment and Isotopic Variation in Minerals from Peridotite Xenoliths from Northwestern Ethiopian Plateau
Authors: Alemayehu Melesse , Zhang Hong-Fu , Sakyi Patrick Asamoah , Haji Muhammed
Published: January 2018

We report Lithium (Li) concentrations and isotopic compositions for co-existing olivine, orthopyroxene (opx), and clinopyroxene (cpx) mineral separates from depleted and metasomatised peridotite xenoliths hosted by basaltic lavas from northwestern Ethiopian plateau (Gundeweyn area). The peridotites contain five lherzolites and one harzburgite and are variably depleted and enriched in LREE relative to HREE. In both depleted and enriched lherzolites, Li is preferentially incorporated into olivine (2.4-3.3 ppm) compared to opx (1.4-2.1 ppm) and cpx (1.4-2.0 ppm) whereas the Li contents of olivines (5.4 ppm) from an enriched harzburgiteare higher than those of lherzolites. Olivines from the samples show higher Li abundances than normal mantle olivines (1.6-1.9 ppm) indicating the occurrence of Li enrichments through melt-preroditite interaction. The average δ7 Li values range from +2.2 to +6.0‰ in olivine, from -0.1 to +2.0‰ in opx and from -4.4 to -0.9‰ in cpx from the lherzolites. The Li isotopic composition (3.5‰) of olivines from harzburgite fall within the range of olivine from lherzolites but the opxs show low in δ7Li (-2.0‰). Overall Li isotopic compositions of olivines from the peridotites fall within the range of normal mantle olivine, δ7Li values of ∼+4±2‰ within uncertainty, reflecting metasomatism (enrichment) of the peridotites by isotopically heavy Li-rich asthenospheric melt. Li isotope zonation is also observed in most peridotite minerals. Majority of olivine grains display isotopically heavy cores and light rims and the reverse case is observed for some olivine grains. Orthopyroxene and clinopyroxene grains show irregular distribution in δ7Li. These features of Li isotopic compositions within and between grains in the samples reflect the effect of diffusion-driven isotopic fractionation during melt-peridotite interaction and cooling processes.
The Great Property Fallacy
Authors: Upham Frank K.
Published: January 2018

In this groundbreaking book, Frank K .Upham uses empirical analysis and economic theory to demonstrate how myths surrounding property law have blinded us to our own past and led us to demand that developing countries implement policies that are mistaken and impossible. Starting in the 16th century with the English enclosures and ending with the World Bank's recent attempt to reform Cambodian land law - while moving through 19th century America, postwar Japan, and contemporary China - Upham dismantles the virtually unchallenged assertion that growth cannot occur without stable legal property rights, and shows how rapid growth can come only through the destruction of pre-existing property structures and their replacement by more productive ones. He argues persuasively for the replacement of Western myths and theoretical simplifications with nuanced approaches to growth and development that are sensitive to complexity and difference and responsive to the political and social factors essential to successful broad-based development.
Revised AGU Position Statement Addresses Climate Intervention
Authors: Landau Elizabeth
Published: January 2018

The American Geophysical Union urges further research and policy development with regard to climate intervention (previously called geoengineering) that considers impacts on society.
P11 promoter methylation predicts the antidepressant effect of electroconvulsive therapy
Authors: Neyazi Alexandra , Theilmann Wiebke , Brandt Claudia , Rantamäki Tomi , Matsui Nobuaki , Rhein Mathias , Kornhuber Johannes , Bajbouj Malek , Sperling Wolfgang , Bleich Stefan , Frieling Helge , Löscher Wolfgang
Published: January 2018

Although electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is among the most effective treatment options for pharmacoresistant major depressive disorder (MDD), some patients still remain refractory to standard ECT practise. Thus, there is a need for markers reliably predicting ECT non/response. In our study, we have taken a novel translational approach for discovering potential biomarkers for the prediction of ECT response. Our hypothesis was that the promoter methylation of p11, a multifunctional protein involved in both depressive-like states and antidepressant treatment responses, is differently regulated in ECT responders vs. nonresponders and thus be a putative biomarker of ECT response. The chronic mild stress model of MDD was adapted with the aim to obtain rats that are resistant to conventional antidepressant drugs (citalopram). Subsequently, electroconvulsive stimulation (ECS) was used to select responders and nonresponders, and compare p11 expression and promoter methylation. In the rat experiments we found that the gene promoter methylation and expression of p11 significantly correlate with the antidepressant effect of ECS. Next, we investigated the predictive properties of p11 promoter methylation in two clinical cohorts of patients with pharmacoresistant MDD. In a proof-of-concept clinical trial in 11 patients with refractory MDD, higher p11 promoter methylation was found in responders to ECT. This finding was replicated in an independent sample of 65 patients with pharmacoresistant MDD. This translational study successfully validated the first biomarker reliably predicting the responsiveness to ECT. Prescreening of this biomarker could help to identify patients eligible for first-line ECT treatment and also help to develop novel antidepressant treatment procedures for depressed patients resistant to all currently approved antidepressant treatments.
PI3K/mTOR inhibition promotes the regression of experimental vascular malformations driven by PIK3CA-activating mutations
Authors: di Blasio Laura , Puliafito Alberto , Gagliardi Paolo Armando , Comunanza Valentina , Somale Desiana , Chiaverina Giulia , Bussolino Federico , Primo Luca
Published: January 2018

Somatic activating mutations within the PIK3CA gene have been recently detected in sporadic lymphatic and venous malformations, and in vascular malformations (VM) associated to overgrowth syndromes, such as CLOVES and Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome. Although VM are often limited to specific tissue areas and can be well treated, in extended or recurrent lesions novel therapeutic approaches are needed. We generated a mouse model of VM by local expression of PIK3CA-activating mutation in endothelial cells. PIK3CA-driven lesions are characterized by large areas of hemorrhage, hyperplastic vessels, infiltrates of inflammatory cells, and elevated endothelial cell density. Such vascular lesions are ameliorated by administration of dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor, BEZ235, and mTOR inhibitor, Everolimus. Unexpectedly, the expression of PIK3CA-activating mutations in human endothelial cells results in both increased proliferation rates and senescence. Moreover, active forms of PIK3CA strongly promote the angiogenic sprouting. Treatment with PI3K/mTOR inhibitors restores normal endothelial cell proliferation rate and reduces the amount of senescent cells, whereas treatment with Akt inhibitor is less effective. Our findings reveal that PIK3CA mutations have a key role in the pathogenesis of VM and PIK3CA-driven experimental lesions can be effectively treated by PI3K/mTOR inhibitors.
Astrocytes modulate brainstem respiratory rhythm-generating circuits and determine exercise capacity
Authors: Sheikhbahaei Shahriar , Turovsky Egor A. , Hosford Patrick S. , Hadjihambi Anna , Theparambil Shefeeq M. , Liu Beihui , Marina Nephtali , Teschemacher Anja G. , Kasparov Sergey , Smith Jeffrey C. , Gourine Alexander V.
Published: January 2018

Astrocytes are implicated in modulation of neuronal excitability and synaptic function, but it remains unknown if these glial cells can directly control activities of motor circuits to influence complex behaviors in vivo. This study focused on the vital respiratory rhythm-generating circuits of the preBötzinger complex (preBötC) and determined how compromised function of local astrocytes affects breathing in conscious experimental animals (rats). Vesicular release mechanisms in astrocytes were disrupted by virally driven expression of either the dominant-negative SNARE protein or light chain of tetanus toxin. We show that blockade of vesicular release in preBötC astrocytes reduces the resting breathing rate and frequency of periodic sighs, decreases rhythm variability, impairs respiratory responses to hypoxia and hypercapnia, and dramatically reduces the exercise capacity. These findings indicate that astrocytes modulate the activity of CNS circuits generating the respiratory rhythm, critically contribute to adaptive respiratory responses in conditions of increased metabolic demand and determine the exercise capacity.
A quiescent cell population replenishes mesenchymal stem cells to drive accelerated growth in mouse incisors
Authors: An Zhengwen , Sabalic Maja , Bloomquist Ryan F. , Fowler Teresa E. , Streelman Todd , Sharpe Paul T
Published: January 2018

The extent to which heterogeneity within mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) populations is related to function is not understood. Using the archetypal MSC in vitro surface marker, CD90/Thy1, here we show that 30% of the MSCs in the continuously growing mouse incisor express CD90/Thy1 and these cells give rise to 30% of the differentiated cell progeny during postnatal development. In adulthood, when growth rate homeostasis is established, the CD90/Thy1+ MSCs decrease dramatically in number. When adult incisors are cut, the growth rate increases to rapidly re-establish tooth length and homeostasis. This accelerated growth rate correlates with the re-appearance of CD90/Thy+ MSCs and re-establishment of their contribution to cell differentiation. A population of Celsr1+ quiescent cells becomes mitotic following clipping and replenishes the CD90/Thy1 population. A sub-population of MSCs thus exists in the mouse incisor, distinguished by expression of CD90/Thy1 that plays a specific role only during periods of increased growth rate.
Reemergence of high-Tc superconductivity in the (Li1-xFe
x
)OHFe1-ySe under high pressure
Authors: Sun J. P. , Shahi P. , Zhou H. X. , Huang Y. L. , Chen K. Y. , Wang B. S. , Ni S. L. , Li N. N. , Zhang K. , Yang W. G. , Uwatoko Y. , Xing G. , Sun J. , Singh D. J. , Jin K. , Zhou F. , Zhang G. M. , Dong X. L. , Zhao Z. X. , Cheng J.-G.
Published: January 2018

In order to elucidate pressure-induced second superconducting phase (SC-II) in A
x
Fe2−ySe2 (A = K, Rb, Cs, and Tl) having an intrinsic phase separation, we perform a detailed high-pressure magnetotransport study on the isoelectronic, phase-pure (Li1−xFe
x
)OHFe1−ySe single crystals. Here we show that its ambient-pressure superconducting phase (SC-I) with a critical temperature Tc ≈ 40 K is suppressed gradually to below 2 K and an SC-II phase emerges above Pc ≈ 5 GPa with Tc increasing progressively to above 50 K up to 12.5 GPa. Our high-precision resistivity data uncover a sharp transition of the normal state from Fermi liquid for SC-I to non-Fermi liquid for SC-II phase. In addition, the reemergence of high-Tc SC-II is found to accompany with a concurrent enhancement of electron carrier density. Without structural transition below 10 GPa, the observed SC-II with enhanced carrier density should be ascribed to an electronic origin presumably associated with pressure-induced Fermi surface reconstruction.
Experimental investigation of practical unforgeable quantum money
Authors: Bozzio Mathieu , Orieux Adeline , Trigo Vidarte Luis , Zaquine Isabelle , Kerenidis Iordanis , Diamanti Eleni
Published: January 2018

Wiesner’s unforgeable quantum money scheme is widely celebrated as the first quantum information application. Based on the no-cloning property of quantum mechanics, this scheme allows for the creation of credit cards used in authenticated transactions offering security guarantees impossible to achieve by classical means. However, despite its central role in quantum cryptography, its experimental implementation has remained elusive because of the lack of quantum memories and of practical verification techniques. Here, we experimentally implement a quantum money protocol relying on classical verification that rigorously satisfies the security condition for unforgeability. Our system exploits polarization encoding of weak coherent states of light and operates under conditions that ensure compatibility with state-of-the-art quantum memories. We derive working regimes for our system using a security analysis taking into account all practical imperfections. Our results constitute a major step towards a real-world realization of this milestone protocol.
Characterization of Nanodiamond-based anti-HIV drug Delivery to the Brain
Authors: Roy Upal , Drozd Vadym , Durygin Andriy , Rodriguez Jesse , Barber Paul , Atluri Venkata , Liu Xiaohua , Voss Thomas G. , Saxena Surendra , Nair Madhavan
Published: January 2018

Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1) remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Present combination antiretroviral therapy has substantially improved HIV-1 related pathology. However, delivery of therapeutic agents to the HIV reservoir organ like Central nervous system (CNS) remains a major challenge primarily due to the ineffective transmigration of drugs through Blood Brain Barrier (BBB). The recent advent of nanomedicine-based drug delivery has stimulated the development of innovative systems for drug delivery. In this regard, particular focus has been given to nanodiamond due to its natural biocompatibility and non-toxic nature–making it a more efficient drug carrier than other carbon-based materials. Considering its potential and importance, we have characterized unmodified and surface-modified (-COOH and -NH2) nanodiamond for its capacity to load the anti-HIV-1 drug efavirenz and cytotoxicity,in vitro. Overall, our study has established that unmodified nanodiamond conjugated drug formulation has significantly higher drug loading capacity than surface-modified nanodiamond with minimum toxicity. Further, this nanodrug formulation was characterized by its drug dissolution profile, transmigration through the BBB, and its therapeutic efficacy. The present biological characterizations provide a foundation for further study ofin-vivopharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of nanodiamond-based anti-HIV drugs.
The compositional and nano-structural basis of fracture healing in healthy and osteoporotic bone
Authors: Mathavan Neashan , Turunen Mikael J. , Guizar-Sicairos Manuel , Bech Martin , Schaff Florian , Tägil Magnus , Isaksson Hanna
Published: January 2018

Osteoporosis, a prevalent metabolic bone disorder, predisposes individuals to increased susceptibility to fractures. It is also, somewhat controversially, thought to delay or impair the regenerative response. Using high-resolution Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and small/wide-angle X-ray scattering we sought to answer the following questions: Does the molecular composition and the nano-structure in the newly regenerated bone differ between healthy and osteoporotic environments? And how do pharmacological treatments, such as bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP-7) alone or synergistically combined with zoledronate (ZA), alter callus composition and nano-structure in such environments? Cumulatively, on the basis of compositional and nano-structural characterizations of newly formed bone in an open-osteotomy rat model, the healing response in untreated healthy and ovariectomy-induced osteoporotic environments was fundamentally the same. However, the BMP-7 induced osteogenic response resulted in greater heterogeneity in the nano-structural crystal dimensions and this effect was more pronounced with osteoporosis. ZA mitigated the effects of the upregulated catabolism induced by both BMP-7 and an osteoporotic bone environment. The findings contribute to our understanding of how the repair processes in healthy and osteoporotic bone differ in both untreated and treated contexts and the data presented represents the most comprehensive study of fracture healing at the nanoscale undertaken to date.
Study of the soluble salts formation in a recently restored house of Pompeii by in-situ Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Prieto-Taboada Nagore , Fdez-Ortiz de Vallejuelo Silvia , Veneranda Marco , Marcaida Iker , Morillas Héctor , Maguregui Maite , Castro Kepa , De Carolis Ernesto , Osanna Massimo , Madariaga Juan Manuel
Published: January 2018

The walls and mural paintings of Pompeii exposed directly to the rainfalls are the most impacted in view of the observed decay. However, there are also wall paintings in protected rooms showing evidences of decaying. The aim of this research was to study the salts formed in such protected wall paintings only by non-invasive and in-situ Raman spectroscopy to understand their decaying processes. The perystile of the House of the Gilded Cupids (Regio VI, Insula 16), one of the most important houses of Pompeii was studied. Although an exhaustive restoration was carried out in 2004, a new conservation treatment was needed in 2013 and only two years later, extensive crystallizations of soluble salts were again threatening several of the restored surfaces, thus, the presence of an unsolved degradation pathway was deduced. Thank to the proposed methodology, it was pointed out that the key is the acidified rainfall impact in the non-protected backside of the walls containing the wall paintings. Thus, a new concept in the preservation of the houses of Pompeii is provided, in which the need of the protection of those walls from both sides is suggested to avoid the movement of water through the pores of the walls.
Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) supported cobalt- nickel sulfide (CoNi2S4) nanoparticles hybrid anode for high performance lithium ion capacitor
Authors: Jagadale Ajay , Zhou Xuan , Blaisdell Douglas , Yang Sen
Published: January 2018

Lithium ion capacitors possess an ability to bridge the gap between lithium ion battery and supercapacitor. The main concern of fabricating lithium ion capacitors is poor rate capability and cyclic stability of the anode material which uses sluggish faradaic reactions to store an electric charge. Herein, we have fabricated high performance hybrid anode material based on carbon nanofibers (CNFs) and cobalt-nickel sulfide (CoNi2S4) nanoparticles via simple electrospinning and electrodeposition methods. Porous and high conducting CNF@CoNi2S4 electrode acts as an expressway network for electronic and ionic diffusion during charging-discharging processes. The effect of anode to cathode mass ratio on the performance has been studied by fabricating lithium ion capacitors with different mass ratios. The surface controlled contribution of CNF@CoNi2S4 electrode was 73% which demonstrates its excellent rate capability. Lithium ion capacitor fabricated with CNF@CoNi2S4 to AC mass ratio of 1:2.6 showed excellent energy density of 85.4 Wh kg−1 with the power density of 150 W kg−1. Also, even at the high power density of 15 kW kg−1, the cell provided the energy density of 35 Wh kg−1. This work offers a new strategy for designing high-performance hybrid anode with the combination of simple and cost effective approaches.
Development of a novel zebrafish xenograft model in ache mutants using liver cancer cell lines
Authors: Avci M. Ender , Keskus Ayse Gokce , Targen Seniye , Isilak M. Efe , Ozturk Mehmet , Atalay Rengul Cetin , Adams Michelle M. , Konu Ozlen
Published: January 2018

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme responsible for degradation of acetylcholine, has been identified as a prognostic marker in liver cancer. Although in vivo Ache tumorigenicity assays in mouse are present, no established liver cancer xenograft model in zebrafish using an ache mutant background exists. Herein, we developed an embryonic zebrafish xenograft model using epithelial (Hep3B) and mesenchymal (SKHep1) liver cancer cell lines in wild-type and ache
sb55
sibling mutant larvae after characterization of cholinesterase expression and activity in cell lines and zebrafish larvae. The comparison of fluorescent signal reflecting tumor size at 3-days post-injection (dpi) revealed an enhanced tumorigenic potential and a reduced migration capacity in cancer cells injected into homozygous ache
sb55
mutants when compared with the wild-type. Increased tumor load was confirmed using an ALU based tumor DNA quantification method modified for use in genotyped xenotransplanted zebrafish embryos. Confocal microscopy using the Huh7 cells stably expressing GFP helped identify the distribution of tumor cells in larvae. Our results imply that acetylcholine accumulation in the microenvironment directly or indirectly supports tumor growth in liver cancer. Use of this model system for drug screening studies holds potential in discovering new cholinergic targets for treatment of liver cancers.