bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single Gene Causes of Stroke
Authors: Majersik Jennifer
Published: July 2017

Though rare, monogenic causes of stroke are recognizable by key clinical and radiographic features. A lack of epidemiological data leaves their true incidence unknown, but the most common monogenetic causes of stroke are sickle cell disease, cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), Fabry's disease, and cerebral cavernous malformations. In this article, the author covers the epidemiology, clinical features, and treatment of those diseases as well as other well-described monogenic causes of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. A “shotgun” approach to genetic testing should be avoided in favor of targeted testing that can provide a higher yield. Neurologists caring for stroke patients should be familiar with these monogenic causes of stroke, as heightened awareness and an armamentarium of additional diagnostic techniques will allow neurologists to diagnose correctly, implement individual distinct treatment paradigms, and provide future risk assessment.
Anatomical Region Segmentation for Objective Surgical Skill Assessment with Operating Room Motion Data
Authors: Bly Randall , Harbison R. , Humphreys Ian , Whipple Mark , Hannaford Blake , Moe Kris , Li Yangming
Published: July 2017

Background Most existing objective surgical motion analysis schemes are limited to structured surgical tasks or recognition of motion patterns for certain categories of surgeries. Analyzing instrument motion data with respect to anatomical structures can break the limit, and an anatomical region segmentation algorithm is required for the analysis.

Methods An atlas was generated by manually segmenting the skull base into nine regions, including left/right anterior/posterior ethmoid sinuses, frontal sinus, left and right maxillary sinuses, nasal airway, and sphenoid sinus. These regions were selected based on anatomical and surgical significance in skull base and sinus surgery. Six features, including left and right eye center, nasofrontal beak, anterior tip of nasal spine, posterior edge of hard palate at midline, and clival body at foramen magnum, were used for alignment. The B-spline deformable registration was adapted to fine tune the registration, and bony boundaries were automatically extracted for final precision improvement. The resultant deformation field was applied to the atlas, and the motion data were clustered according to the deformed atlas.

Results Eight maxillofacial computed tomography scans were used in experiments. One was manually segmented as the atlas. The others were segmented by the proposed method. Motion data were clustered into nine groups for every dataset and outliers were filtered.

Conclusions The proposed algorithm improved the efficiency of motion data clustering and requires limited human interaction in the process. The anatomical region segmentations effectively filtered out the portion of motion data that are out of surgery sites and grouped them according to anatomical similarities.
Survival Rate of Limb Replantation in Different Age Groups
Authors: Urata Shiro , Tanaka Kenji , Kurahashi Toshikazu , Takeda Shinsuke , Hirata Hitoshi , Tatebe Masahiro
Published: July 2017

Revascularization of damaged limbs/digits is technically feasible, but indications for surgical replantation remain controversial. The authors analyzed the survival rate of upper limb amputations and the associated factors in different age groups. They grouped 371 limb/digit amputees (average age, 44 years; range, 2–85 years) treated in their hospital during the past 10 years into three groups based on age (young, ≤ 15 years, n = 12; adult, 16–64 years, n = 302; elderly, ≥ 65 years, n = 57) and analyzed their injury type (extent of injury and stump status), operation method, presence of medical complications (Charlson comorbidity index), and survival rate. There were 168 replantations, and the overall replantation survival rate was 93%. The Charlson comorbidity index of the replantation patients was 0 in 124 cases; 1 in 32; 2 in 9; and 3 in 3, but it did not show any significant difference in survival rate after replantation. Eight elderly patients (14%) did not opt for replantation. Younger patients tended to undergo replantation, but they had lower success rates due to their severe injury status. The results of this study show that the survival rate of replantation in elderly patients is equal to that in adults. Stump evaluation is important for survival, but the presence of medical complications is not associated with the overall survival rate.
Telefonische sozialdienstliche Nachsorge zur Verbesserung der beruflichen Reintegration nach stationärer medizinischer Rehabilitation
Authors: Vogel Martin , Walther Anna , Deck Ruth
Published: July 2017

Ziel der Studie Viele Rehabilitanden werden aus der stationären Rehabilitation mit einem sog. vollschichtigen Restleistungsvermögen entlassen, haben jedoch entweder keinen oder einen Arbeitsplatz, der ein Missverhältnis zwischen Fähigkeits- und Anforderungsprofil aufweist. Diese Rehabilitanden fühlen sich mit ihren Problemen bezüglich einer adäquaten beruflichen Wiedereingliederung häufig alleine gelassen und wünschen sich über die Dauer der stationären Rehabilitation hinaus eine Betreuung bei sozialrechtlichen und sozialmedizinischen Fragestellungen. Mit der randomisierten kontrollierten Studie wurde untersucht, ob sich eine telefonische sozialdienstliche Nachbetreuung über einen Zeitraum von 12 Monaten nach der stationären medizinischen Rehabilitation positiv auf die berufliche Wiedereingliederung auswirkt.

Methode Orthopädische Rehabilitanden mit einer besonderen beruflichen Problemlage wurden in einer Rehabilitationseinrichtung rekrutiert und am Ende der Maßnahme in die jeweilige Nachsorge randomisiert. Die Interventionsgruppe (IG, N=171) erhielt über 12 Monate eine telefonische Nachsorge durch einen Mitarbeiter des Sozialdienstes, die Kontrollgruppe (KG, N=162) erhielt die Standardnachsorgeempfehlungen. Die Operationalisierung einer nicht erfolgreichen beruflichen Wiedereingliederung erfolgte mithilfe von 3 Items, aus denen ein Risikoscore gebildet wurde. Die Evaluation der telefonischen Nachsorge erfolgte durch schriftliche Befragung zu 3 Messzeitpunkten.

Ergebnisse Insgesamt konnten 333 Rehabilitanden in die Studie eingeschlossen werden. 45% (N=152) der Stichprobe war weiblich, das Durchschnittsalter betrug 50 Jahre. 71% (N=120) der Rehabilitanden der IG gaben an, 12 Monate nach der Rehabilitation erwerbstätig zu sein. Bei der KG betrug dieser Anteil 68% (N=110; p=0,074, KI −0,0718; 0,1252). Beim Risikoscore zur beruflichen Wiedereingliederung ergaben sich für die KG eine signifikant höhere Risikokonstellation als für die Interventionsgruppe.

Schlussfolgerung Auf der Basis eines Risikoscores ergaben sich signifikante Vorteile für die Rehabilitanden der Interventionsgruppe. Das Risiko einer nicht erfolgreichen Wiedereingliederung nach 12 Monaten war in der IG signifikant geringer. Bei allen weiteren berufs- und gesundheitsbezogenen Parametern ergaben sich größtenteils nur moderate Unterschiede. Diese sind allerdings vor dem Hintergrund einer eher niedrigschwelligen Intervention zu würdigen. Die telefonische Nachsorge durch einen Mitarbeiter des Sozialdienstes wurde von den meisten Rehabilitanden der Interventionsgruppe als sehr hilfreich beurteilt.
11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid Inhibits Lymphocyte (CD3) Infiltration Into Pancreatic Islets of Young None Obese Diabetic (NOD) Mice
Authors: Shehata Ahmed , Quintanilla-Fend Leticia , Bettio Sabrina , Kamyabi-Moghaddam Zahra , Kohlhofer Ursula , Scherbaum Werner , Ammon Hermann
Published: July 2017

11-Keto-β-Boswellic acid (KBA) has been shown to prevent infiltration of lymphocytes into pancreatic islets and appearance of peri-insular apoptotic cells in an animal model of autoimmune diabetes caused by injection of Multiple Low Doses of Streptozotocin (MLD-STZ), which is a chemical compound belonging to the class of nitrososureas. The aim of this work was to study whether or not KBA can also prevent/attenuate infiltration of lymphocytes into pancreatic islets and appearance of peri-insular apoptotic cells in an animal model of autoimmune diabetes caused by genetic dysfunction resembling human type 1 diabetes in several important features. Four weeks old female NOD mice received daily i.p. injections of 7.5 mg/kg of KBA over a period of 3 weeks. Compared to 4 weeks old animals there was significant infiltration of lymphocytes (CD3) into pancreatic islets and appearance of peri-insular apoptotic cells in the period between 4 and 7 weeks. During this time plasma glucose dropped significantly and body weight did not increase. As far as pro-inflammatory cytokines are concerned, except a small increase of IFN-γ, there was no change in the blood. In mice that had been treated with KBA between 4 and 7 weeks after birth no significant infiltration of lymphocytes into pancreatic islets and appearance of peri-insular apoptotic cells was observed, when compared to 4 weeks old mice. Moreover, there was no drop of blood glucose and the animals gained body weight. It is concluded that – similar to the model of MLD-STZ-diabetes – also in the NOD mouse model KBA is able to attenuate or even prevent development of insulitis, suggesting that KBA protects islets from autoimmune reaction regardless whether the signal is provided by a chemical compound or by genetic dysfunction. Whether this also holds for human type 1 diabetes remains to be established.
Eine Dekade Arztbewertungsportale in Deutschland: Eine Zwischenbilanz zum aktuellen Entwicklungsstand
Authors: Emmert Martin , Meszmer Nina
Published: July 2017

Zielsetzung Arztbewertungsportale bieten neben der Suche nach Ärzten die Möglichkeit, diese online zu bewerten. Nach einer Dekade Präsenz in Deutschland erfolgt anhand von 4 Fragestellungen eine aktuelle Bestandsaufnahme, um deren Bedeutung für Patienten und das Gesundheitswesen zu evaluieren.

Methodik (1) Eine systematische Internetrecherche zur Identifizierung von Arztbewertungsportalen. (2) Durchführung einer online-Befragung (N=1044 Personen) zur Ermittlung des Bekanntheits- und Nutzungsgrad von Arztbewertungsportalen, deren Einfluss auf die Arztwahl als auch Patientenpräferenzen bei der online Arztsuche. (3) Analyse der Struktur von Onlinebewertungen für eine 11% Stichprobe zufällig gezogener Hautärzte.

Ergebnisse Es wurden 29 Arztbewertungsportale identifiziert. Der Bekanntheitsgrad beträgt 53,6% und der Nutzungsgrad für die Arztsuche 23,4%. Ca. 70% der Portalnutzer gaben an, bei der Arztwahl durch Onlinebewertungen beeinflusst worden zu sein. Nahezu alle Hautärzte konnten auf den Portalen identifiziert werden, 93% davon wurden bereits bewertet (Mittelwert 24,55 Bewertungen). Der Anteil der Ärzte in der besten Notenkategorie beträgt durchschnittlich 55,1%.

Schlussfolgerung Arztbewertungsportale scheinen nach einer Dekade Präsenz in der deutschen Gesundheitsversorgung angekommen zu sein und nehmen eine zunehmend bedeutsamere Rolle ein. Qualitativ hochwertige Studien sollten den Einfluss der Portale auf die Arztwahl untersuchen.
Electronic structures of hybrid graphane/boron nitride nanoribbons with hydrogen vacancies
Authors: Lee Chi-Hsuan , Tseng Wei-Hua , Yang Chih-Kai
Published: July 2017

The electronic properties of hybrid graphane/boron-nitride nanoribbons with hydrogen vacancies are investigated using density functional calculations. Hydrogen vacancies in the shapes of lines and chains in the composite system are able to alter the electronic properties drastically. If segregated by a BN separator, H-vacancy chains may also be used for conduction of optically excited electrons on either edge of the BN, rendering it possible to create spatially distinctive conduction channels.
Thermally induced magnetic switching in bit-patterned media
Authors: Pfau B. , Günther C. M. , Hauet T. , Eisebitt S. , Hellwig O.
Published: July 2017

We have studied the thermal variation of the switching field of magnetic islands at room temperature. A model bit-pattern media composed of an assembly of islands with 80 nm width was fabricated by sputter deposition onto a pre-patterned substrate. Using direct magnetic-contrast imaging of the islands under applied field, we extract the switching probabilities of individual islands. Based on an analytical model for the thermally activated switching of the islands, we are able to determine the intrinsic magnetic anisotropy of each island and, consequentially, a distribution of anisotropies for the island ensemble investigated. In the distribution, we identify a separated group of islands with a particularly small anisotropy. We attribute this group to islands containing misaligned grains triggering the magnetic reversal. At room temperature and slow field sweep rates, the observed thermal broadening of the switching-field distribution is small compared to the intrinsic broadening. However, we illustrate that thermal fluctuations play a crucial role at high sweep rates by extrapolating our results to technological relevant regimes.
Orbital orientation mapping of V2O5 thin films
Authors: Lamoureux B. R. , Jovic V. , Singh V. R. , Smith K. E.
Published: July 2017

We report the effects of growth methods on the orbital orientation in vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) thin films, an important factor to consider when selecting growth techniques for highly selective catalysts and devices. Thermal evaporation and sol-gel methods were used to synthesize the V2O5 films. The surface morphology, roughness, and orientation of the films were characterized by atomic force microscopy and x-ray diffraction. Surface electronic properties and oxidation states were assessed by x-ray photoemission spectroscopy. Polarized x-ray absorption spectroscopy demonstrated that the thermally evaporated film [which was in the (001) orientation] exhibited greater anisotropy than the (100) oriented sol-gel film. The observed increase in anisotropy agrees well with computational findings which revealed that more vanadyl bonds are present at the surface of the thermally evaporated film than at the surface of the sol-gel film. The same computational study also found that the orientation of these bonds is more parallel to the film surface in the thermally evaporated film than in the sol-gel film. The data suggest that the method of growth may be used as a controlled variable to select key film characteristics for potential applications.
Quantitative analysis of a III-V tapered horn-shaped metal-clad nano-cavity as an on-chip light source
Authors: Koo Sukmo , Siddique Radwanul Hasan , Choo Hyuck
Published: July 2017

A horn-shaped metal-clad InGaAsP nano-cavity with sloped sidewalls is proposed as a platform for nanoscale light sources. The nano-cavity’s physical dimensions are 350 × 350 × 350 nm3, and its mode volume is 0.5 (λ0/n)3. In our numerical simulations and quantitative analysis, we have shown that the sloped sidewalls reduce metallic absorption and improve resonant mode confinement; and adjusting their slope from 0 to 16° increased the Q factor from 150 to 900 and laser modulation 3dB bandwidth from 4.3 to 36 GHz. The lasing threshold current was expected to be 35 μA at 16°. In a simulated feasibility study, we demonstrate 60 Gbps modulated laser signal (5 fJ/bit), producing 20 μW output power at the 1.5 μm wavelength with injection current 100 μA, as an implementation of horn-shaped nano-cavity platform to the low power and ultra-fast on-chip nano-laser.
Preconditioned dynamic mode decomposition and mode selection algorithms for large datasets using incremental proper orthogonal decomposition
Authors: Ohmichi Yuya
Published: July 2017

In this letter, we propose a simple and efficient framework of dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) and mode selection for large datasets. The proposed framework explicitly introduces a preconditioning step using an incremental proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) to DMD and mode selection algorithms. By performing the preconditioning step, the DMD and mode selection can be performed with low memory consumption and therefore can be applied to large datasets. Additionally, we propose a simple mode selection algorithm based on a greedy method. The proposed framework is applied to the analysis of three-dimensional flow around a circular cylinder.
Periodic arrays of flux-closure domains in ferroelectric thin films with oxide electrodes
Authors: Li S. , Zhu Y. L. , Wang Y. J. , Tang Y. L. , Liu Y. , Zhang S. R. , Ma J. Y. , Ma X. L.
Published: July 2017

Flux-closure domain structures in ferroelectric thin films are considered to have potential applications in electronic devices. It is usually believed that these structures are stabilized by the depolarization field and the contact with electrodes tends to screen the depolarization field and may limit their formation. In this work, the influence of oxide electrodes (SrRuO3 and La0.7Sr0.3MnO3) on the formation of flux-closure domains in PbTiO3 thin films deposited on (110)-oriented GdScO3 substrates by pulsed laser deposition was investigated by Cs-corrected transmission electron microscopy. It is found that periodic flux-closure domain arrays can be stabilized in PbTiO3 films when the top and bottom electrodes are symmetric, while a/c domains appear when asymmetric electrodes are applied. The influence of asymmetric electrodes on the domain configuration is proposed to have a connection with their different work functions and conductivity types. These results are expected to shed light on understanding the nature of flux-closure domains in ferroelectrics and open some research possibilities, such as the evolution of these structures under external electric fields.
Magnetic and microstructural properties of Nd7Fe67B22Mo3Zr0.5Ti0.5 nanocomposite magnets produced by injection casting
Authors: Tao Shan , Ahmad Zubair , Zhang Pengyue , Yan Mi , Zheng Xiaomei
Published: July 2017

The microstructure and magnetic properties of Nd7Fe67B22Mo3.5-xZr0.5Tix (x = 0, 0.5, 1.0) nanocomposite magnets prepared by annealing the amorphous precursors have been investigated and presented. The Nd7Fe67B22Mo3Zr0.5Ti0.5 alloy exhibits high glass forming ability as well as good hard magnetic properties in magnetic rods of 2 mm in diameter and 40 mm in length. As-cast Nd7Fe67B22Mo3Zr0.5Ti0.5 amorphous rod shows soft magnetic properties. Annealing induces promising hard magnetic properties as Br = 0.55 T, iHc = 965 kA/m and (BH)max = 47.6 kJ/m3. Electron microscopy elucidates a microstructure composed of magnetically soft α-Fe (27 nm), Fe3B (24 nm) and hard Nd2Fe14B (50 nm) magnetic grains. The single phase hard magnetic characteristics of M-H loop and δM curve yield the existence of strong exchange coupling interactions between the magnetically soft and hard phases.
Emerging evidence for potential role of Ca2+-ATPase-mediated calcium accumulation in symbiosomes of infected root nodule cells
Authors: Andreev Igor M.
Published: July 2017

Symbiosomes are organelle-like compartments responsible for nitrogen fixation in infected nodule cells of legumes, which are formed as a result of symbiotic association of soil bacteria rhizobia with certain plant root cells. They are virtually the only source of reduced nitrogen in the Earth’s biosphere, and consequently, are of great importance. It has been proven that the functioning of symbiosomes depends to a large extent on the transport of various metabolites and ions – most likely including Ca2+ – across the symbiosome membrane (SM). Although it has been well established that this cation is involved in the regulation of a broad spectrum of processes in cells of living organisms, its role in the functioning of symbiosomes remains obscure. This is despite available data indicating both its transport through the SM and accumulation within these compartments. This review summarises the results obtained in the course of studies on the given aspects of calcium behaviour in symbiosomes, and on this basis gives a possible explanation of the proper functional role in them of Ca2+.
Toward a new understanding of syntactic CLI
Authors: Flynn Suzanne , Berkes Éva
Published: July 2017

With the aim to attain a principled understanding of adult L2/L3 acquisition, we present data from a large corpus that focuses on L2/L3 identification of nominal gaps of empty categories. We show that both surface and abstract properties of the target language play significant roles in development. The analyses of amount correct and nature of errors indicate that the initial state in both L2/L3 studies emerge in terms of the learners’ identification of a nominal gap within the given expression but not necessarily in an L1 manner. Based on the finding that CLI is syntactically selective and principled, multilingual development is to be understood as a specific reconstruction and integration of surface and abstract features of the target language.
Testing the current models of third language acquisition
Authors: Slabakova Roumyana , García Mayo Maria del Pilar
Published: July 2017

In this chapter, we argue that another factor should be brought into the general picture of third and additional language acquisition: the comprehensible linguistic input. Predictions of current models have been predominantly based on the cognitive-psychological prominence of the three languages (native or not, adult-onset or not, naturalistic or instructed, proficient or not) as well as on the structural linguistic properties to be acquired, which may overlap or contrast. We argue that even keeping these two factors constant, discrepancies in learning outcomes still arise, which have to be explained by the linguistic experience of the learners. We support our arguments with results from two recently published studies, which document diverging developmental paths for two properties that should have been acquired in a similar manner.
The L2 status factor hypothesis revisited
Authors: Bardel Camilla , Sánchez Laura
Published: July 2017

This chapter provides a nuanced view of the L2 status factor model, emphasizing explicit metalinguistic knowledge as the key factor governing transfer, together with individual differences in working memory and the operations associated with it. We argue that individual differences regarding the degree of explicit metalinguistic knowledge attained either in the L1 or in the L2 and differences when it comes to working memory, attention and noticing should be taken in consideration when accounting for transfer from previously acquired or learned languages in L3 learning.
Transfer effects in the acquisition of double object constructions in English as an L3
Authors: Agirre Ainara Imaz , García Mayo María del Pilar
Published: July 2017

The present study examines the role of transfer in the processing of double object constructions (DOC) in English as a third language (L3). A group of Basque/Spanish bilinguals and a group of Spanish speakers divided into three proficiency levels completed a self-paced reading task. Findings did not fully confirm the predictions of the L3 transfer models. Evidence from accuracy and reaction time data indicated a non-facilitative role of transfer since participants did not reach native-like accuracy rates across proficiency levels. Moreover, transfer does not seem to occur solely from Spanish, as predicted by the Typological Primacy Model. Proficiency level seems to be relevant when determining transfer in dative alternation.
Transfer from an L2 in third language learning
Authors: Sánchez Laura , Bardel Camilla
Published: July 2017

This chapter addresses the role of proficiency in a prior non-native language (L2 proficiency) on transfer in third language learning. It discusses some methodological considerations and gaps in previous research, while also bringing up conceptual difficulties in defining, operationalizing and measuring L2 proficiency. An empirical study is presented on the role played by overall proficiency in L2 German on the occurrence of transfer in L3 English written production in Spanish/ Catalan bilingual learners (n = 73). The statistical treatment of the data relied on an ANCOVA with number of transferred items as the dependent variable and L2 proficiency as the independent variable. Biological age and proficiency in the target language (L3 proficiency) were used as covariates in this analysis.
Input Processing and Processing Instruction
Authors: Benati Alessandro , Schwieter John W.
Published: July 2017

Input Processing refers to the initial process by which learners connect grammatical forms with their meanings as well as how they interpret the roles of nouns in relationship to verbs. The pedagogical intervention derived from this theoretical framework, Processing Instruction (PI), has consistently shown success at improving second language (L2) learners’ processing strategies. PI helps learners to intake “better input” by directing their attention to targeted forms during input processing and to assign grammatical and semantic roles. Although previous findings reveal that PI is an effective pedagogy in L2 learning, in this chapter we explore whether similar benefits would hold for third language (L3) learning. Through considerations related to the complimentary and competitive nature of first languages (L1s) and L2s, along with insight from cognitive bilingualism, we advocate for future studies to test the hypotheses discussed in this chapter.
From theory to practice in multilingualism
Authors: González Alonso Jorge , Rothman Jason
Published: July 2017

This paper aims to show how insights from formal linguistic theory and empirical acquisition work can inform teaching practice in the multilingual classroom. Potential differences will arise depending on multilingual learners’ language history, particularly in the divide between true L2 and L3 learners. We show how one can use the predictions of the L3 initial stages models to predict potential areas of difficulty specifically for multilingual learners. With this knowledge, we argue, it is possible to create interventions that help learners overcome potential initial difficulties. We illustrate our line of argumentation by extending insights from published work comparing L2 and L3 acquisition, and provide an example of one such intervention that could be used to induce grammatical change (predicted) for erroneous initially transferred representations made by L3 learners.
Input-Practice-Output
Authors: Hahn Angela , Angelovska Tanja
Published: July 2017

In the field of Instructed Third Language Acquisition (ITLA), teachers are left alone not knowing how to predict possible transfer phenomena, how to overcome them and how to raise their learners’ metalinguistic awareness. We start from the existing results and non-results of L3 acquisition (transfer) and develop practical applications as part of the Input-Practice-Output Method1 showing that a combination of these three phases allows for an individual, learner-centered and teacher’s awareness-based framework in ITLA. We offer implications for designing teaching materials, planning lessons for multilingual classrooms and for classroom action research.
Habitat Associations of Juvenile Burbot in a Tributary of the Kootenai River
Authors: Beard Zachary S. , Quist Michael C. , Hardy Ryan S. , Ross Tyler J.
Published: July 2017

Burbot Lota lota in the lower Kootenai River, Idaho, have been the focus of extensive conservation efforts, particularly conservation aquaculture. One of the primary management strategies has been the release of Burbot into small tributaries in the Kootenai River basin, such as Deep Creek. Since 2012, approximately 12,000 juvenile Burbot have been stocked into Deep Creek; however, little is known about the habitat use of stocked Burbot. The objective of this study was to evaluate habitat associations of juvenile Burbot in Deep Creek. Fish and habitat were sampled from 58 reaches of the creek. Regression models suggested that Burbot moved little after stocking and were associated with areas of high mean depth and coarse substrate. This study provides additional knowledge on habitat associations of juvenile Burbot and suggests that managers should consider selecting deep habitats with coarse substrate for stocking locations.

Received December 15, 2016; accepted May 22, 2017 Published online July 31, 2017
Spawning Habitat of Hatchery Spring Chinook Salmon and Possible Mechanisms Contributing to Lower Reproductive Success
Authors: Hughes Michael S. , Murdoch Andrew R.
Published: July 2017

Spawning is a critical stage in the life history of salmonids. Spawning location has been reported to be a significant factor in the fitness differences between natural‐ and hatchery‐origin (natural and hatchery, respectively) female spring Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, although the mechanisms responsible remain uncertain. The objectives of this study were to compare the spawning distributions of hatchery and natural female spring Chinook salmon within the Chiwawa River, Washington, and determine whether spawning characteristics differ between hatchery and natural female Chinook Salmon or between channel types within the Chiwawa River. Over a 10‐year period, locations of female carcasses were examined to assess differences in the spawning distribution of hatchery and natural females. Additionally, a suite of metrics was measured from redds of known origin females to characterize the spawning location and redd characteristics. A greater proportion of hatchery females spawned in the lower watershed within plane‐bed channels than spawned upstream. Conversely, the majority of natural females spawned farther upstream in pool‐riffle channels. The distribution of hatchery fish was presumably strongly influenced by the hatchery acclimation–release location in the lower river. Given the geomorphic characteristics of plane‐bed channels, salmon were unable to build redds there similar to those in more typical pool‐riffle channels. Redds constructed in plane‐bed channels were smaller, shallower, and closer to stream banks than redds in pool‐riffle channels. Limited differences were detected in redd characteristics between natural and hatchery females in pool‐riffle channels. Smaller hatchery females constructed smaller redds with lower tailspill relief than did larger natural fish. As the results of differences in spawning distribution and fish size, redds constructed by hatchery females were more susceptible to environmental sources of mortality than were redds constructed by natural females. This study provides insight into the possible mechanisms responsible for the reported lower reproductive success among hatchery females spawning in the natural environment.

Received December 14, 2016; accepted May 24, 2017 Published online July 31, 2017
Connections between the human gut microbiome and gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kuang Ya-Shu , Lu Jin-Hua , Li Sheng-Hui , Li Jun-Hua , Yuan Ming-Yang , He Jian-Rong , Chen Nian-Nian , Xiao Wan-Qing , Shen Song-Ying , Qiu Lan , Wu Ying-Fang , Hu Cui-Yue , Wu Yan-Yan , Li Wei-Dong , Chen Qiao-Zhu , Deng Hong-Wen , Papasian Christopher J. , Xia Hui-Min , Qiu Xiu
Published: July 2017

The human gut microbiome can modulate metabolic health and affect insulin resistance, and it may play an important role in the etiology of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Here, we compared the gut microbial composition of 43 GDM patients and 81 healthy pregnant women via whole-metagenome shotgun sequencing of their fecal samples, collected at 21–29 weeks, to explore associations between GDM and the composition of microbial taxonomic units and functional genes. A metagenome-wide association study identified 154 837 genes, which clustered into 129 metagenome linkage groups (MLGs) for species description, with significant relative abundance differences between the 2 cohorts. Parabacteroides distasonis, Klebsiella variicola, etc., were enriched in GDM patients, whereas Methanobrevibacter smithii, Alistipes spp., Bifidobacterium spp., and Eubacterium spp. were enriched in controls. The ratios of the gross abundances of GDM-enriched MLGs to control-enriched MLGs were positively correlated with blood glucose levels. A random forest model shows that fecal MLGs have excellent discriminatory power to predict GDM status. Our study discovered novel relationships between the gut microbiome and GDM status and suggests that changes in microbial composition may potentially be used to identify individuals at risk for GDM.
Population-wide sampling of retrotransposon insertion polymorphisms using deep sequencing and efficient detection
Authors: Yu Qichao , Zhang Wei , Zhang Xiaolong , Zeng Yongli , Wang Yeming , Wang Yanhui , Xu Liqin , Huang Xiaoyun , Li Nannan , Zhou Xinlan , Lu Jie , Guo Xiaosen , Li Guibo , Hou Yong , Liu Shiping , Li Bo
Published: July 2017

Active retrotransposons play important roles during evolution and continue to shape our genomes today, especially in genetic polymorphisms underlying a diverse set of diseases. However, studies of human retrotransposon insertion polymorphisms (RIPs) based on whole-genome deep sequencing at the population level have not been sufficiently undertaken, despite the obvious need for a thorough characterization of RIPs in the general population. Herein, we present a novel and efficient computational tool called Specific Insertions Detector (SID) for the detection of non-reference RIPs. We demonstrate that SID is suitable for high-depth whole-genome sequencing data using paired-end reads obtained from simulated and real datasets. We construct a comprehensive RIP database using a large population of 90 Han Chinese individuals with a mean ×68 depth per individual. In total, we identify 9342 recent RIPs, and 8433 of these RIPs are novel compared with dbRIP, including 5826 Alu, 2169 long interspersed nuclear element 1 (L1), 383 SVA, and 55 long terminal repeats. Among the 9342 RIPs, 4828 were located in gene regions and 5 were located in protein-coding regions. We demonstrate that RIPs can, in principle, be an informative resource to perform population evolution and phylogenetic analyses. Taking the demographic effects into account, we identify a weak negative selection on SVA and L1 but an approximately neutral selection for Alu elements based on the frequency spectrum of RIPs. SID is a powerful open-source program for the detection of non-reference RIPs. We built a non-reference RIP dataset that greatly enhanced the diversity of RIPs detected in the general population, and it should be invaluable to researchers interested in many aspects of human evolution, genetics, and disease. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate that the RIPs can be used as biomarkers in a similar way as single nucleotide polymorphisms.
Drosophila embryonic type II neuroblasts: origin, temporal patterning, and contribution to the adult central complex
Authors: Walsh Kathleen T. , Doe Chris Q.
Published: July 2017

Drosophila neuroblasts are an excellent model for investigating how neuronal diversity is generated. Most brain neuroblasts generate a series of ganglion mother cells (GMCs) that each make two neurons (type I lineage), but sixteen brain neuroblasts generate a series of intermediate neural progenitors (INPs) that each produce 4-6 GMCs and 8-12 neurons (type II lineage). Thus, type II lineages are similar to primate cortical lineages, and may serve as models for understanding cortical expansion. Yet the origin of type II neuroblasts remains mysterious: do they form in the embryo or larva? If they form in the embryo, do their progeny populate the adult central complex, as do the larval type II neuroblast progeny? Here we present molecular and clonal data showing that all type II neuroblasts form in the embryo, produce INPs, and express known temporal transcription factors. Embryonic type II neuroblasts and INPs undergo quiescence, and produce embryonic-born progeny that contribute to the adult central complex. Our results provide a foundation for investigating the development of the central complex, and tools for characterizing early-born neurons in central complex function.
The ANTs Longitudinal Cortical Thickness Pipeline
Authors: Tustison Nicholas J. , Holbrook Andrew J. , Avants Brian B. , Roberts Jared M. , Cook Philip A. , Reagh Zachariah M. , Duda Jeffrey T. , Stone James R. , Gillen Daniel L. , Yassa Michael A. ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2017

Longitudinal studies of development and disease in the human brain have motivated the acquisition of large neuroimaging data sets and the concomitant development of robust methodological and statistical tools for quantifying neurostructural changes. Longitudinal-specific strategies for acquisition and processing have potentially significant benefits including more consistent estimates of intra-subject measurements while retaining predictive power. In this work, we introduce the open-source Advanced Normalization Tools (ANTs) registration-based cortical thickness longitudinal processing pipeline and its application to the first phase of the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI-1) comprising over 600 subjects with multiple time points from baseline to 36 months. We demonstrate in these data that the single-subject template construction and same orientation processing results in a simultaneous minimization of residual variability and maximization of between-subject variability immediately estimable from a longitudinal mixed-effects modeling strategy. It is known from the statistical literature that optimizing these dual criteria leads to greater scientific interpretability in terms of tighter confidence intervals in calculated mean trends, smaller prediction intervals, and narrower confidence intervals for determining cross-sectional effects. This strategy is evaluated over the entire cortex, as defined by the Desikan-Killiany-Tourville labeling protocol, where comparisons are made with the cross-sectional and longitudinal FreeSurfer processing streams. Subsequent linear mixed effects modeling for identifying diagnostic groupings within the ADNI cohort is provided as supporting evidence for the utility of the proposed ANTs longitudinal framework which provides unbiased structural neuroimage processing and competitive to superior power for longitudinal structural change detection.
Exploring repositioning opportunities and side-effects of statins: a Mendelian randomization study of HMG-CoA reductase inhibition with 55 complex traits
Authors: Hon-Cheong SO , Chau Carlos Kwan-long , Zhao Kai
Published: July 2017

Statin is one of the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide. Besides reduction of cardiovascular risks, statins have been proposed for the prevention or treatment of other disorders, but results from clinical studies are mixed. There are also controversies concerning the adverse effects caused by statins.

In this study we employed a Mendelian randomization (MR) approach across a wide range of complex traits to explore repositioning opportunities and side-effects of statins. MR is analogous to a “naturalistic” randomized controlled trial (RCT), which is much less susceptible to confounding and reverse causation as compared to observational studies.

We employed two genetic instruments (rs12916 and rs17238484) in theHMGCRgene which have been shown to provide reliable estimates of the risk of statins on type 2 diabetes and weight gain. We observed in the single- and joint-SNP analysis that low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction from HMG-CoA reductase inhibition results in increased depressive symptoms. This finding appeared to be supported by nominally significant results of raised major depression risk in single-SNP MR analysis of rs17238484, and analyses using LDL-C as the exposure. Several other outcomes also reached nominal significance (p< 0.05) in single- or joint-SNP analyses; for example, we observed causal associations of LDL-C lowering from HMG-CoA reductase inhibition withreducedrisks of schizophrenia, anorexia nervosa, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, as well as increased forearm bone mineral density, sleep duration and extreme longevity (highestq-value= 0.289). We also found evidence of casual relationships of LDL-C levels with schizophrenia, anorexia, sleep duration and longevity, following the same association directions as in analyses ofHMGCRvariants. These findings were at least partially supported by previous clinical studies. We did not observe associations with cognitive test profiles, renal outcomes, autoimmune diseases or cancers. While MR has its limitations and our findings remain to be confirmed in further studies, this work demonstrates the potential of a phenome-wide approach to reveal novel therapeutic indications and unknown drug side-effects.
Syntheses, structures and characterization of isomorphous CoII and NiII coordination polymers based on 2-[(1H-imidazol-1-yl)methyl]-6-methyl-1H-benzimidazole and benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate
Authors: Huang Qiu-Ying , Zhao Yang , Meng Xiang-Ru
Published: July 2017

Careful choice of the organic ligands is one of the most important parameters in the rational design and synthesis of coordination polymers. Aromatic polycarboxylates have been widely used in the preparation of metal–organic polymers since they can utilize various coordination modes to form diverse structures and can act as hydrogen-bond acceptors and donors in the assembly of supramolecular structures. Nitrogen-heterocyclic organic compounds have also been used extensively as ligands for the construction of polymers with interesting structures. In the polymers catena-poly[[[diaquabis{2-[(1H-imidazol-1-yl)methyl]-6-methyl-1H-benzimidazole-κN
3}cobalt(II)]-μ2-benzene-1,4-dicarboxylato-κ2
O
1:O
4] dihydrate], {[Co(C8H4O4)(C12H11N4)2(H2O)2]·2H2O}
n
, (I), and catena-poly[[[diaquabis{2-[(1H-imidazol-1-yl)methyl]-6-methyl-1H-benzimidazole-κN
3}nickel(II)]-μ2-benzene-1,4-dicarboxylato-κ2
O
1:O
4] dihydrate], {[Ni(C8H4O4)(C12H11N4)2(H2O)2]·2H2O}
n
, (II), the CoII or NiII ion lies on an inversion centre and exhibits a slightly distorted octahedral coordination geometry, coordinated by two N atoms from two imidazole rings and four O atoms from two monodentate carboxylate groups and two water molecules. The dicarboxylate ligands bridge metal ions forming a polymeric chain. The 2-[(1H-imidazol-1-yl)methyl]-6-methyl-1H-benzimidazole ligands coordinate to the CoII or NiII centres in monodentate modes through an imidazole N atom and are pendant on opposite sides of the main chain. The two structures are isomorphous. In the crystal, the one-dimensional chains are further connected through O—H...O, O—H...N and N—H...O hydrogen bonds, leading to a three-dimensional supramolecular architecture. In addition, the IR spectroscopic properties, PXRD patterns, thermogravimetric behaviours and fluorescence properties of both polymers have been investigated.
Consequence of induced magnetic field on peristaltic motion of a Carreau nanofluid in a tapered asymmetric channel
Authors: Kothandapani M. , Pushparaj V.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the consequence of the combined impacts of an induced magnetic field and thermal radiation on peristaltic transport of a Carreau nanofluid in a vertical tapered asymmetric channel. The model applied for the nanofluid comprises the effects of Brownian motion and thermophoresis.

Design/methodology/approach

The governing equations have been simplified under the widespread assumption of long-wavelength and low-Reynolds number approximations. The reduced coupled nonlinear equations of momentum and magnetic force function have also been solved analytically using the regular perturbation method.

Findings

The physical features of emerging parameters have been discussed by drawing the graphs of velocity, temperature, nanoparticle concentration profile, magnetic force function, current density, heat transfer coefficient and stream function. It has been realized that the magnetic force function is increased with the increase of Hartmann number, magnetic Reynolds number and mean flow rate.

Originality/value

It may be first paper in which the effect of induced magnetic field on peristaltic flow of non-Newtonian nanofluid in a tapered asymmetric channel has been studied.
Impact of Cattaneo-Christov heat flux on flow of two-types viscoelastic fluid in Darcy-Forchheimer porous medium
Authors: Abbasi Fahad Munir , Hayat Tasawar , Shehzad Sabir Ali , Alsaedi Ahmed
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The aim of this works is to characterize the role of Cattaneo?Christov heat flux in two-dimensional flows of second-grade and Walter’s liquid B fluid models.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study similarity transformations have been used to transform the system into ordinary ones. Numerical and analytical solutions are computed through homotopic algorithm and shooting technique.

Findings

The numerical values of temperature gradient are tabulated, and the temperature gradient reduces rapidly with enhancing values of the Darcy parameter, but this reduction is very slow for Forchheimer parameter.

Originality/value

No such analyses have been reported in the literature.
The furthest left behind: the urgent need to scale up harm reduction in prisons
Authors: Sander Gen , Murphy Fionnuala
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Raise awareness about the disproportionate impact of HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) on prisoners worldwide and the need for key harm reduction services such as needle and syringe programmes and opioid substitution therapy in prisons offer practical recommendations to assist policy makers in implementing or scaling up these services. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a desk review of existing data and evidence on HIV, HCV and harm reduction in prisons, analysis of political barriers and formulation of key policy recommendations.

Findings

Harm reduction works, yet service provision in prisons remains extremely limited. There is an urgent need for governments to enhance political leadership and funding for harm reduction in prisons. Authorities must also work to remove obstacles to the implementation of harm reduction services in prisons, enhance the monitoring and evaluation of laws, policies and programmes relating to HIV, HCV and drugs in prison settings, and recognise access to harm reduction in prisons as a fundamental human right. Until these obstacles are addressed, the world will not meet the Sustainable Development Goal of eradicating HIV and HCV by 2030.

Originality/value

More than just a desk review, this policy brief provides a political analysis of the harm reduction crisis in prisons and offers clear-cut recommendations for policy makers.