bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The demise of Angkor: Systemic vulnerability of urban infrastructure to climatic variations
Authors: Penny Dan , Zachreson Cameron , Fletcher Roland , Lau David , Lizier Joseph T. , Fischer Nicholas , Evans Damian , Pottier Christophe , Prokopenko Mikhail
Published: October 2018

The historic urban collapse of Angkor is linked to infrastructural complexity and climatic variability.
A dysbiotic microbiome triggers T
H
17 cells to mediate oral mucosal immunopathology in mice and humans
Authors: Dutzan Nicolas , Kajikawa Tetsuhiro , Abusleme Loreto , Greenwell-Wild Teresa , Zuazo Carlos E. , Ikeuchi Tomoko , Brenchley Laurie , Abe Toshiharu , Hurabielle Charlotte , Martin Daniel , Morell Robert J. , Freeman Alexandra F. , Lazarevic Vanja , Trinchieri Giorgio , Diaz Patricia I. , Holland Steven M. , Belkaid Yasmine , Hajishengallis George , Moutsopoulos Niki M.
Published: October 2018

Combined patient and animal model studies implicate microbiota-triggered T
H
17 cells as disease drivers and therapeutic targets in periodontitis.
Self-defeating CAR-Ts protect leukemic cells
Authors: Hinrichs Christian S.
Published: October 2018

Transfer of a CAR gene to a leukemic cell confers resistance to CAR-T cell therapy.
Sustained obesity starts in early childhood
Authors: Page Kathleen A.
Published: October 2018

Accelerated weight gain during early childhood predicts sustained obesity.
Successful Treatment of
Saksenaea
sp. Osteomyelitis by Conservative Surgery and Intradiaphyseal Incorporation of Amphotericin B Cement Beads
Authors: Parize Perrine , Mamez Anne-Claire , Garcia-Hermoso Dea , Dumaine Valérie , Poirée Sylvain , Kauffmann-Lacroix Catherine , Jullien Vincent , Lortholary Olivier , Lanternier Fanny
Published: October 2018

Osteoarticular mucormycosis cases are quite rare and challenging infections that are mostly due to direct inoculation during traumatic injury among immunocompetent patients. Classic management includes a combination of aggressive surgical debridement, which may lead to amputation, and long-term systemic liposomal amphotericin B therapy.
Assessing Transmission of Antimicrobial-Resistant
Escherichia coli
in Wild Giraffe Contact Networks
Authors: Miller Elizabeth A. , Johnson Timothy J. , Omondi George , Atwill Edward R. , Isbell Lynne A. , McCowan Brenda , VanderWaal Kimberly
Published: October 2018

Antimicrobial resistance represents a significant threat to human health, food security, and the global economy. To fully understand the evolution and dissemination of resistance genes, a complete picture of antimicrobial resistance in all biological compartments, including natural ecosystems, is required. The environment and wild animals may act as reservoirs for anthropogenically derived resistance genes that could be transferrable to clinically relevant bacteria of humans and domestic animals. Our study investigated the possible transmission mechanisms for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria within a wild animal population and, more broadly, contributes to our understanding of how resistance genes are spread and maintained in natural ecosystems.
Dynamics of Virus-Specific Memory B Cells and Plasmablasts following Viral Infection of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Atkinson Jeffrey R. , Hwang Mihyun , Reyes-Rodriguez Angel , Bergmann Cornelia C.
Published: October 2018

The prevalence and role of antigen-specific Bmem in the CNS during viral encephalomyelitis is largely undefined. A lack of reliable markers identifying murine Bmem has made it difficult to assess their contribution to local antiviral protection via antigen presentation or conversion to ASC. Using reporter mice infected with neurotropic coronavirus to track virus-specific Bmem and ASC, this report demonstrates that both subsets only emerge in the CNS following peripheral GC formation and subsequently prevail. While early GC reactions supported preferential Bmem accumulation in the CNS, late GC reactions favored ASC accumulation, although Bmem outnumbered ASC in draining lymph nodes throughout infection. Importantly, virus-specific B cells undergoing sustained GC selection were continually recruited to the persistently infected CNS. Elucidating the factors governing temporal events within GCs, as well as regional CNS cues during viral persistence, will aid intervention to modulate CNS humoral responses in the context of infection and associated autoimmune pathologies.
Acute Infection and Subsequent Subclinical Reactivation of Herpes Simplex Virus 2 after Vaginal Inoculation of Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Lo Ming , Zhu Jia , Hansen Scott G. , Carroll Timothy , Farr Zuend Christina , Nöel-Romas Laura , Ma Zhong-Min , Fritts Linda , Huang Meei-Li , Sun Sijie , Huang Ying , Koelle David M. , Picker Louis J. , Burgener Adam , Corey Lawrence , Miller Christopher J.
Published: October 2018

Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) infects nearly 500 million persons globally, with an estimated 21 million incident cases each year, making it one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). HSV-2 is associated with increased human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) acquisition, and this risk does not decline with the use of antiherpes drugs. As initial acquisition of both HIV and HSV-2 infections is subclinical, study of the initial molecular interactions of the two agents requires an animal model. We found that HSV-2 can infect RM after vaginal inoculation, establish latency in the nervous system, and spontaneously reactivate; these features mimic some of the key features of HSV-2 infection in women. RM may provide an animal model to develop strategies to prevent HSV-2 acquisition and reactivation.
Rare origin of left main coronary artery from non-coronary sinus with aortic coarctation
Authors: Ganga Kartik P , Shaw Manish , Sharma Arun , Jagia Priya
Published: October 2018

Anomalous origin of left main coronary artery from non-coronary sinus (LCANCS) is an extremely rare anomaly. Aortic coarctation in association with LCANCS has not been previously described in literature.
Serial circulating omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and healthy ageing among older adults in the Cardiovascular Health Study: prospective cohort study
Authors: Lai Heidi TM , de Oliveira Otto Marcia C , Lemaitre Rozenn N , McKnight Barbara , Song Xiaoling , King Irena B , Chaves Paulo HM , Odden Michelle C , Newman Anne B , Siscovick David S , Mozaffarian Dariush
Published: October 2018

Objective

To determine the longitudinal association between serial biomarker measures of circulating omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n3-PUFA) levels and healthy ageing.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Four communities in the United States (Cardiovascular Health Study) from 1992 to 2015.

Participants

2622 adults with a mean (SD) age of 74.4 (4.8) and with successful healthy ageing at baseline in 1992-93.

Exposure

Cumulative levels of plasma phospholipid n3-PUFAs were measured using gas chromatography in 1992-93, 1998-99, and 2005-06, expressed as percentage of total fatty acids, including α-linolenic acid from plants and eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid from seafoood.

Main outcome measure

Healthy ageing defined as survival without chronic diseases (ie, cardiovascular disease, cancer, lung disease, and severe chronic kidney disease), the absence of cognitive and physical dysfunction, or death from other causes not part of the healthy ageing outcome after age 65. Events were centrally adjudicated or determined from medical records and diagnostic tests.

Results

Higher levels of long chain n3-PUFAs were associated with an 18% lower risk (95% confidence interval 7% to 28%) of unhealthy ageing per interquintile range after multivariable adjustments with time-varying exposure and covariates. Individually, higher eicosapentaenoic acid and docosapentaenoic acid (but not docosahexaenoic acid) levels were associated with a lower risk: 15% (6% to 23%) and 16% (6% to 25%), respectively. α-linolenic acid from plants was not noticeably associated with unhealthy ageing (hazard ratio 0.92, 95% confidence interval 0.83 to 1.02).

Conclusions

In older adults, a higher cumulative level of serially measured circulating n3-PUFAs from seafood (eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid), eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosapentaenoic acid (but not docosahexaenoic acid from seafood or α-linolenic acid from plants) was associated with a higher likelihood of healthy ageing. These findings support guidelines for increased dietary consumption of n3-PUFAs in older adults.
Feasibility of collecting and assessing patient-reported outcomes for emergency admissions: laparotomy for gastrointestinal conditions
Authors: Kwong Esther , Neuburger Jenny , Murray Dave , Black Nick
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Audit of emergency surgery is usually limited to immediate clinical outcomes relating to outcomes during the acute hospital episode with little attempt to capture patients’ views of their longer-term outcomes. Our aim was to determine the response rate to patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for patients who underwent an emergency laparotomy for gastrointestinal conditions, identify response bias and explore the feasibility of comparing outcomes with their prior health based on their recalled view collected during their admission.

Methods

Patients undergoing emergency laparotomy in 11 hospitals were recruited to complete a retrospective questionnaire containing the EQ-5D-3L and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). Response rate for 3-month mailed follow-up questionnaire and potential response biases were assessed. Patients’ outcomes were compared with their baseline using χ2and paired t-test to assess for differences.

Results

Of 255 patients contacted at 3 months, 190 (74.1%) responded. Responders were more likely to be older, female and more affluent. Patients’ health improved significantly as regards the GIQLI (93.3 vs 97.9; p=0.048) and the subscale on symptoms (51.9 vs 59.6; p<0.001). No significant change in subscales on emotion or physical aspects or for overall health status (EQ-5D: 0.58 vs 0.64; p=0.06). According to the social subscale, patients had deteriorated (11.0 vs 9.8; p<0.0006). Differences in change scores by patient characteristics were slight, suggesting minimal response bias.

Conclusion

This approach offers the opportunity for assessing the impact of treatment, from the patient’s perspective and the potential to evaluate emergency laparotomy care using PROMs.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension: consensus guidelines on management
Authors: Mollan Susan P , Davies Brendan , Silver Nick C , Shaw Simon , Mallucci Conor L , Wakerley Benjamin R , Krishnan Anita , Chavda Swarupsinh V , Ramalingam Satheesh , Edwards Julie , Hemmings Krystal , Williamson Michelle , Burdon Michael A , Hassan-Smith Ghaniah , Digre Kathleen , Liu Grant T , Jensen Rigmor Højland , Sinclair Alexandra J
Published: October 2018

The aim was to capture interdisciplinary expertise from a large group of clinicians, reflecting practice from across the UK and further, to inform subsequent development of a national consensus guidance for optimal management of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).

Methods

Between September 2015 and October 2017, a specialist interest group including neurology, neurosurgery, neuroradiology, ophthalmology, nursing, primary care doctors and patient representatives met. An initial UK survey of attitudes and practice in IIH was sent to a wide group of physicians and surgeons who investigate and manage IIH regularly. A comprehensive systematic literature review was performed to assemble the foundations of the statements. An international panel along with four national professional bodies, namely the Association of British Neurologists, British Association for the Study of Headache, the Society of British Neurological Surgeons and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists critically reviewed the statements.

Results

Over 20 questions were constructed: one based on the diagnostic principles for optimal investigation of papilloedema and 21 for the management of IIH. Three main principles were identified: (1) to treat the underlying disease; (2) to protect the vision; and (3) to minimise the headache morbidity. Statements presented provide insight to uncertainties in IIH where research opportunities exist.

Conclusions

In collaboration with many different specialists, professions and patient representatives, we have developed guidance statements for the investigation and management of adult IIH.
Medical immunity, international law and just war theory
Authors: Allhoff Fritz , Potts K
Published: October 2018

Under customary international law, the First Geneva Convention and Additional Protocol I, medical personnel are protected against intentional attack. In § 1 of this paper, we survey these legal norms and situate them within the broader international humanitarian law framework. In § 2, we explore the historical and philosophical basis of medical immunity, both of which have been underexplored in the academic literature. In § 3, we analyse these norms as applied to an attack in Afghanistan (2015) by the United States; the United States was attempting to target a Taliban command-and-control centre but inadvertently destroyed a Médecins Sans Frontières hospital instead, killing 42 people. In § 4, we consider forfeiture of medical immunity and, more sceptically, whether supreme emergency could justify infringement of non-forfeited protected status.
Calibration of resistance factors for geotechnical seismic design
Authors: Naghibi Farzaneh , Fenton Gordon A.
Published: October 2018

The next edition of the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code will contain a table of geotechnical resistance factors to be used for seismic design. This paper will estimate the geotechnical resistance factors for shallow foundations required to achieve various target maximum acceptable failure probabilities, which in turn may depend on the assumed design earthquake return period. The investigation will include consideration of design lifetime, uncertainty in the magnitude of the maximum lifetime earthquake event, and the uncertainty in ground properties. The results suggest resistance factors that are lower than commonly used at the moment in Canada and that the failure probability is not greatly dependent on the return period of the design earthquake. The paper will present recommendations on geotechnical resistance factors for seismic design that can be used to guide and calibrate future editions of civil design codes in Canada.
Local egg production and larval losses to advection contribute to interannual and long-term variability of American lobster (Homarus americanus) settlement intensity
Authors: Gendron Louise , Lefaivre Denis , Sainte-Marie Bernard
Published: October 2018

American lobster (Homarus americanus) egg production and settlement intensity were examined over a 19-year period (1995–2013) in the Gulf of St. Lawrence at the Magdalen Islands (MI), where the population is spatially isolated during the benthic phase. Settlement and hatch dates by year were back-calculated from observed young-of-the-year size structure and juvenile and larval growth models. Drift of locally released larvae, from stage I to the end of stage III, was simulated using an ocean circulation model. Settlement intensity was related positively to egg production and negatively to drift distance. There was a strong positive trend in settlement intensity explained largely by increasing egg production, as well as by declining larval duration and drift distance. In the last years of the study, settlement intensity may have been limited by nursery saturation. The results suggest that demographic connectivity through larval drift is highly dynamic in time and that it declined during our study period. The demographic dependence of the MI lobster population on other populations in the Gulf of St. Lawrence is probably low.
A bibliometric review of past trends and future prospects in urban heat island research from 1990 to 2017
Authors: Wu Zhifeng , Ren Yin
Published: October 2018

The urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon is among the most evident features of human impact on the Earth’s system. This phenomenon has been widely observed and documented in many cities around the world. UHI-related publications have increased rapidly over the last three decades. However, because of a refined methodology and widening scope, a holistic understanding of research patterns and issues related to UHI research is lacking. Although others have summarized developments in UHI studies, these publications have focused on describing the current state of research rather than uncovering research trends and prospects. In the present study, we examined the evolution of UHI-related research from 1990 to 2017 and applied a scientometrics approach to identify research trends. The characteristics of publication outputs, key scientific disciplines, and cooperation between countries and institutions were determined by a citation analysis. We also discuss research trends, including future directions, approaches, and expected data. We identified two potential directions for UHI research through the results of key co-word clustering and discriminant analyses: negative impacts of UHI on public health and strategies to mitigate and adapt to UHI effects. We provide a broad review of the development of UHI research that may inspire future studies on the UHI phenomenon by new researchers in this field.
Beyond burial: researching and managing cemeteries as urban green spaces, with examples from Canada
Authors: Quinton Jessica M. , Duinker Peter N.
Published: October 2018

Cemeteries existing within cities are often omitted from the “green space” narrative despite their high levels of vegetation. Given the relatively small areas of green space in many cities, it is important to appropriately manage these landscapes to ensure that residents can access green spaces and enjoy the many benefits they offer. The purpose of our paper is to demonstrate that cemeteries should be managed and researched as urban green spaces that provide ecosystem services. We compared and contrasted cemeteries with urban parks and used their similarities and differences, as well as a review of existing cemetery and other green-space literature, to discuss how cemeteries can provide a wide variety of ecosystem services. We found that cemeteries and parks both have high levels of vegetation, similar perceived safety issues, and some common rules and regulations, while differing in their consideration as public spaces, effect on real-estate values, historical–cultural value, and funding and management goals. Despite the differences, we believe that the vegetation (particularly trees), monuments, other infrastructure, and atmosphere within cemeteries make them well-suited to providing ecosystem services such as recreation, human health and restoration, stormwater management, microclimate regulation, aesthetics, and so on. Cemeteries can also potentially provide ecosystem “disservices” such as allergens, invasive/dangerous/poisonous species, and the degradation of groundwater quality. However, we believe that the potential for ecosystem services far outweighs the potential for ecosystem disservices in urban cemeteries, and as such we believe they should be studied and managed as green spaces with functions beyond those of interment and mourning. Given the general superiority of trees over other vegetation in providing a diversity of ecosystem services, we urge cemetery managers to consider options for increases and improvements in cemetery tree populations.
Some results on the Hard Lefschetz Condition
Authors: Tomassini Adriano , Wang Xu
Published: October 2018

We discuss the Hard Lefschetz Condition (HLC) on various cohomology groups and verify them for the Nakamura manifold of completely solvable type and the Kodaira-Thurston manifold. A general Demailly-Griffiths-Kähler identity is also given.
High optical quality long ultrafine ZnO nanowires by low-temperature oxidation of sputtered nanostructured Zn templates
Authors: Abdolrezapour F. , Moradi M.
Published: October 2018

In this study, we show that by applying appropriate deposition conditions, Zn nanostructured templates for the growth of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires can be fabricated, from which ultrafine high optical quality nanowires can be grown by means of post-deposition low-temperature oxidation. By identifying and optimizing the appropriate parameters, we successfully fabricated long ultrafine ZnO nanowires up to 30 microns in length and 50 nm in diameter. Our report contradicts the commonly held paradigm that sputter deposition can only be used to fabricate thin films with no significant nanostructure morphology and provides a low cost, high throughput method of fabricating different ZnO nanostructures. The studies of photoluminescence (PL) of the nanowires showed their high optical quality with band edge dominated emission with small defect-related input.
e–e recollision dynamics of nonsequential double ionization with mid-infrared laser field
Authors: Li Yingbin , Mei Lingli , Chen Hongmei , Xu Jingkun , Tang Qingbin , Zhao Yiguang , Han Qianqian , Wang Chunlei , Tong Aihong , Ge Guixian , Yu Benhai
Published: October 2018

We have investigated the recollision dynamics of correlated electron from nonsequential double ionization (NSDI) with 3200 nm laser fields at a wide range of intensities using a full-dimensional classical ensemble method. The numerical results show that for the mid-infrared laser fields, the double ionization probability versus laser peak intensity still displays a much clear “traditional” knee structure representing NSDI. At low intensity, the electron momentum correlated spectrum along the laser polarization direction shows a V-shaped structure; whereas at high intensity, the spectrum exhibits a clearly cross-shaped structure. We demonstrate that both the V-shaped structure and the cross-shaped structure are the results of extremely asymmetric energy sharing of the two electrons at recollision. Moreover, the most prominent contribution to NSDI is from the second-returning trajectory and the first-returning trajectory is significantly suppressed. What’s more, the mechanism of NSDI is from recollision impact ionization (RII) channel as well as recollision-excitation-with-subsequent-ionization (RESI) channel. We find that at low intensity, only the RII channel contributes to V-shaped structure; whereas at high intensity, both the RII and RESI channels have comparable contribution to the cross-shaped structure. Further, we diagnose the recolliding electron and the bound electron separately by tracing the classical trajectories.
Bulk viscous cosmological model in f(R,T) theory of gravity
Authors: Debnath Partha Sarathi
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we have presented bulk viscous cosmological model of the universe in the modified gravity theory in which the Lagragian of the gravitational action contains a general function [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] denote the curvature scalar and the trace of the energy–momentum tensor, respectively, in the framework of a flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker model with isotropic fluid. We obtain cosmological solution in [Formula: see text] theory of gravity, specially of particular choice [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a constant, in the presence of bulk viscosity that are permitted in Eckart theory, Truncated Israel Stewart (TIS) theory and Full Israel Stewart (FIS) theory. The physical and geometrical properties of the models in Eckart, TIS theory and FIS theory are studied in detail. The analysis of the variation of bulk viscous pressure, energy density, scale factor, Hubble parameter and deceleration parameter with cosmic evolution is done in the respective theories. The models are analyzed by comparison with recent observational data. The cosmological models are compatible with observations.
Global monopole metric in 2 + 1 dimensions
Authors: Mazharimousavi S. Habib , Halilsoy M.
Published: October 2018

In order to obtain the geometry of a global monopole without cosmological constant and electric charge in [Formula: see text] dimensions, we make use of the broken [Formula: see text] symmetry. In the absence of an exact solution, we determine the series solutions for both the metric and monopole functions in a consistent manner that satisfies all equations in appropriate powers. The new expansion elements are of the form [Formula: see text] for the radial distance [Formula: see text] and positive integers [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] constrained by [Formula: see text]. To the lowest order of expansion, we find that in analogy with the negative cosmological constant the geometry of the global monopole acts repulsively, i.e. in the absence of a cosmological constant the global monopole plays at large distances the role of a negative cosmological constant.
Development of perfusion bioreactor for whole organ engineering — a culture system that enhances cellular engraftment, survival and phenotype of repopulated pancreas
Authors: Goh Saik-Kia , Bertera Suzanne , Vaidya Vimal , Dumpe Sam , Barner Sierra , Mathew Shibin , Banerjee Ipsita
Published: October 2018

Whole organ engineering has emerged as a promising alternative avenue to fill the gap of donor organ shortage in organ transplantation. Recent breakthroughs in the decellularization of solid organs and repopulation with desired cell populations have generated neo-organ constructs with promising functional outcomes. The realization of this goal requires engineering advancement in the perfusion-based bioreactors to (i) efficiently deliver decellularization agents, followed by (ii) its reconstruction with relevant cell types and (iii) maintenance of viability and function of the repopulated organ. In this study, we report the development and assembly of a perfusion bioreactor with the potential to enable regenerative reconstruction of pancreas. The assembled bioreactor is versatile to efficiently decellularize multiple organs, as demonstrated by complete decellularization of pancreas, liver and heart in the same set-up. Further, the same system is amenable to support organ repopulation with diverse cell types. Using our in-house bioreactor system, we demonstrate pancreas repopulation with both immortalized MIN-6 beta cells and differentiating human pluripotent stem cells. Importantly, we show the significant advantage of perfusion culture over static culture in enhancing cell engraftment, viability and phenotypic maintenance of the repopulated pancreas. In addition, this study is a significant step forward for whole organ engineering as it will facilitate cost-effective and easy assembly of perfusion bioreactors to enable rapid advancement in regenerative organ reconstruction.
Systematics, Phylogeny, and Evolution of Braconid Wasps: 30 Years of Progress
Authors: Chen Xue-xin , van Achterberg Cornelis
Published: October 2018

The parasitoid wasp family Braconidae is likely the second-most species-rich family in the animal kingdom. Braconid wasps are widely distributed and often encountered. They constitute one of the principal groups of natural enemies of phytophagous insects, of which many are serious pest species. The enormous biological diversification of braconid wasps has led to many homoplasies, which contributed widely to instabilities in historical classifications. Recent studies using combinations of genetic markers or total mitochondrial genomes allow for better founded groupings and will ultimately lead to a stable classification. We present the current status of the phylogenetics of the Braconidae in a historical perspective and our understanding of the effects on higher classification.
Opportunities for microRNAs in the Crowded Field of Cardiovascular Biomarkers
Authors: Halushka Perry V. , Goodwin Andrew J. , Halushka Marc K.
Published: October 2018

Cardiovascular diseases exist across all developed countries. Biomarkers that can predict or diagnose diseases early in their pathogeneses can reduce their morbidity and mortality in afflicted individuals. microRNAs are small regulatory RNAs that modulate translation and have been identified as potential fluid-based biomarkers across numerous maladies. We describe the current state of cardiovascular disease biomarkers across a range of diseases, including myocardial infarction, acute coronary syndrome, myocarditis, hypertension, heart failure, heart transplantation, aortic stenosis, diabetic cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation, and sepsis. We present the current understanding of microRNAs as possible biomarkers in these categories and where their best opportunities exist to enter clinical practice.
Self-Controlled Case Series Methodology
Authors: Whitaker Heather J. , Ghebremichael-Weldeselassie Yonas
Published: October 2018

The self-controlled case series method is an epidemiological study design in which individuals act as their own control. The method offers advantages but has several limitations. This article outlines the self-controlled case series method and reviews methodological developments that address some of these limitations.
Pharmacological potentiation of the efferent vagus nerve attenuates blood pressure and renal injury in a murine model of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Pham Grace S. , Wang Lei A. , Mathis Keisa W.
Published: October 2018

Recent evidence suggests hypertension may be secondary to chronic inflammation that results from hypoactive neuro-immune regulatory mechanisms. To further understand this association, we used systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) as a model of inflammation-induced hypertension. In addition to prevalent inflammatory kidney disease and hypertension, SLE patients suffer from dysautonomia in the form of decreased efferent vagal tone. Based on this, the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, an endogenous vagus-to-spleen mechanism that, when activated results in decreases in systemic inflammation, may be compromised in SLE. We hypothesized that stimulation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway via pharmacological potentiation of the efferent vagus nerve would reduce inflammation and halt the development of hypertension and renal injury in SLE. Female NZBWF1 mice, an established model of murine SLE, and female control mice were treated with galantamine (4 mg/kg daily ip), an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, or saline for 14 days. At the end of therapy, carotid catheters were surgically implanted and were used to measure mean arterial pressure before the animals were euthanized. Chronic galantamine administration attenuated both splenic and renal cortical inflammation, which likely explains why the hypertension and renal injury (i.e., glomerulosclerosis and fibrosis) typically observed in murine SLE was attenuated following therapy. Based on this, the anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and renoprotective effects of galantamine may be mediated through activation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. It is possible that dysfunction of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway exists in SLE at the level of the efferent vagus nerve and promoting restoration of its activity through central cholinergic receptor activation may be beneficial.
Periostin overexpression in collecting ducts accelerates renal cyst growth and fibrosis in polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Raman Archana , Parnell Stephen C. , Zhang Yan , Reif Gail A. , Dai Yuqiao , Khanna Aditi , Daniel Emily , White Corey , Vivian Jay L. , Wallace Darren P.
Published: October 2018

In polycystic kidney disease (PKD), persistent activation of cell proliferation and matrix production contributes to cyst growth and fibrosis, leading to progressive deterioration of renal function. Previously, we showed that periostin, a matricellular protein involved in tissue repair, is overexpressed by cystic epithelial cells of PKD kidneys. Periostin binds αVβ3-integrins and activates integrin-linked kinase (ILK), leading to Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-mediated proliferation of human PKD cells. By contrast, periostin does not stimulate the proliferation of normal human kidney cells. This difference in the response to periostin is due to elevated expression of αVβ3-integrins by cystic cells. To determine whether periostin accelerates cyst growth and fibrosis, we generated mice with conditional overexpression of periostin in the collecting ducts (CDs). Ectopic CD expression of periostin was not sufficient to induce cyst formation or fibrosis in wild-type mice. However, periostin overexpression in pcy/pcy ( pcy) kidneys significantly increased mTOR activity, cell proliferation, cyst growth, and interstitial fibrosis; and accelerated the decline in renal function. Moreover, CD-specific overexpression of periostin caused a decrease in the survival of pcy mice. These pathological changes were accompanied by increased renal expression of vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin, and type I collagen. We also found that periostin increased gene expression of pathways involved in repair, including integrin and growth factor signaling and ECM production, and it stimulated focal adhesion kinase, Rho GTPase, cytoskeletal reorganization, and migration of PKD cells. These results suggest that periostin stimulates signaling pathways involved in an abnormal tissue repair process that contributes to cyst growth and fibrosis in PKD.
Maximal strength training: the impact of eccentric overload
Authors: Tøien Tiril , Pedersen Haglo Håvard , Unhjem Runar , Hoff Jan , Wang Eivind
Published: October 2018

The search for the most potent strength training intervention is continuous. Maximal strength training (MST) yields large improvements in force-generating capacity (FGC), largely attributed to efferent neural drive enhancement. However, it remains elusive whether eccentric overload, before the concentric phase, may augment training-induced neuromuscular adaptations. A total of 53 23 ± 3 (SD)-yr-old untrained males were randomized to either a nontraining control group (CG) or one of two training groups performing leg press strength training with linear progression, three times per week for 8 wk. The first training group carried out MST with four sets of four repetitions at ~90% one-repetition maximum (1RM) in both action phases. The second group performed MST with an augmented eccentric load of 150% 1RM (eMST). Measurements were taken of 1RM and rate of force development (RFD), countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, and evoked potentials recordings [V-wave (V) and H-reflex (H) normalized to M-wave (M) in musculus soleus]. 1RM increased from 133 ± 16 to 157 ± 23 kg and 123 ± 18 to 149 ± 22 kg and CMJ by 2.3 ± 3.6 and 2.2 ± 3.7cm for MST and eMST, respectively (all P < 0.05). Early, late, and maximal RFD increased in both groups [634–1,501 N/s (MST); 644–2,111 N/s (eMST); P < 0.05]. These functional improvements were accompanied by increased V/M-ratio (MST: 0.34 ± 0.11 to 0.42 ± 14; eMST: .36 ± 0.14 to 0.43 ± 13; P < 0.05). Resting H/M-ratio remained unchanged. Training-induced improvements did not differ. All increases, except for CMJ, were different from the CG. MST is an enterprise for large gains in FGC and functional performance. Eccentric overload did not induce additional improvements, suggesting firing frequency and motor unit recruitment during MST may be maximal.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study to apply evoked potential recordings to investigate effects on efferent neural drive following high-intensity strength training with and without eccentric overload in a functionally relevant lower extremity exercise. We document that eccentric overload does not augment improvements in efferent neural drive or muscle force-generating capacity, suggesting that high-intensity concentric loads may maximally tax firing frequency and motor unit recruitment.
Direct assessment of presynaptic modulation of cortico-striatal glutamate release in a Huntington’s disease mouse model
Authors: Koch Ellen T. , Woodard Cameron L. , Raymond Lynn A.
Published: October 2018

Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, and impairments in its signaling are associated with many neurological disorders, including Huntington’s disease (HD). Previous studies in HD mouse models demonstrate altered glutamate receptor distribution and signaling at cortico-striatal synapses, and some studies suggest that glutamate release is altered; however, traditional methods to study synaptic glutamate release are indirect or have poor temporal resolution. Here we utilize iGluSnFR, a modified green fluorescent protein reporter for real-time imaging of glutamate transmission, to study presynaptic modulation of cortical glutamate release in the striatum of the YAC128 HD mouse model. We determined that iGluSnFR can be used to accurately measure short- and long-term changes in glutamate release caused by modulation of extracellular Ca2+ levels, activation of presynaptic receptors, and high-frequency stimulation (HFS) protocols. We also confirmed a difference in the expression of HFS-induced long-term depression in YAC128. Together, this research demonstrates the utility of iGluSnFR in studying presynaptic modulation of glutamate release in healthy mice and disease models that display impairments in glutamate signaling.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We use iGluSnFR to directly assess presynaptic modulation of cortico-striatal glutamate release in brain slice and compare changes in glutamate release between wild type and a Huntington’s disease mouse model, YAC128. We observed reductions in glutamate release after low extracellular Ca2+ and activation of various presynaptic receptors. We also demonstrate a presynaptic mechanism of reduced glutamate release in high-frequency stimulation-induced long-term depression and show this to be altered in YAC128.
Calculation Model of Rock Fracture Pressure with Multifields in the Process of Fracturing
Authors: Xiaojiao Zhao , Zhan Qu , Xiaofeng Xu , Xiaocong Yu , Heng Fan , Xijin Song
Published: October 2018

In this paper, a comprehensive model to calculate the rock fracture pressure by the theory of double effective stress of porous medium is established, which considers such effective factors as the crustal stress field, hydration stress field, temperature field, tectonic stress field, the porosity of rock, and additional stress field generated by seepage of drilling fluid. This new model is applicable to predict the fracture pressure of different types of rocks. Using the experimental parameters of field fracturing and the experimental results of three-axis compression of rock cores with different water contents, we may get the calculated fracture pressure. Compared with the measured fracture pressure in the oilfield, the result calculated in the present study shows good agreement. Besides, the effects of water contents on the tensile strength and fracture pressure are analyzed. Results show that both the tensile strength and fracture pressure decrease with the increase of water contents, which is due to the reduction of the mechanical properties of rocks by hydration.
Psychiatric Disorders in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): The Role of the Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrist
Authors: Brinkers Michael , Rumpelt Paulina , Lux Anke , Kretzschmar Moritz , Pfau Giselher
Published: October 2018

Background. Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a multifactorial disorder with complex aetiology and pathogenesis. At the outpatient pain clinic of Magdeburg University Hospital, all patients, without exception, are subject to permanent psychiatric care delivered by a consultation-liaison psychiatrist. In CRPS, psychological stabilization and treatment of the neuropathic aspects are equally important. The aim of this single-center retrospective study was to determine mental/psychiatric defects impairing pain processing at the time of investigation and show the effects of treating mental disorders and neuropathic pain with the same psychotropic drugs.Method. On admission, the consultation-liaison psychiatrist examined the mental state of every patient in a semistructured interview according to AMDP (working group for methods and documentation in psychiatry). Due to the model of the Department of Anaesthesiology, we are able to compare the group of CRPS patients with all other outpatients treated for pain.Results. The medical treatment of psychiatric dysfunction leads to an analgesic effect. Only every second CRPS patient had an additional psychiatric diagnosis, and 15.6% were diagnosed with depressive mood disorders and show a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms than the general population and exceed the mean for all patients treated in our pain clinic.Conclusions. In neuropathies, treatment of the neuropathic pain has a modulating effect on mental disorders. As CRPS patients are frequently affected by depressions, and owing to the connection between depression and suicidal tendencies, patients should be seen by a consultation-liaison psychiatrist, and nonpsychiatrists should pay special attention to this patient group.
Experimental Study on the Fine‐Grained Uranium Tailings Reinforced by MICP
Authors: Gui Rong , Pan Yu-xiang , Ding De-xin , Liu Yong , Zhang Zhi-jun
Published: October 2018

Sporosarcina Pasteurii was chosen for the experiment to study the effect and mechanism of fine‐grained uranium tailings reinforced by MICP. The biochemical characteristics of strains and microbial immobilization in uranium tailings were analyzed. The results showed that the CaCO3 production rate is positively correlated with the physiological activity of Sporosarcina Pasteurii and the concentration of calcium sources, and the higher the solution concentration of CaCl2, the lower the discharge rate of bacterial liquid from the sand column, but high concentration of CaCl2 solution will affect the uniform distribution and migration of bacteria in the uranium tailings. After 16 days, the direct shear was used to test the reinforcement effects of fine‐grained uranium tailings by MICP. The cohesive force and the internal friction angle of fine‐grained uranium tailings were increased by 140.1% and 46.7%. The production amount of CaCO3 is 138.89 kg/m3. The results showed that the MICP‐reinforced technology can effectively improve the shear strength of the uranium tailings, and the experiment provides a new method for the reinforcement of the fine‐grained uranium tailings dam.
The Epidemiology and Trend of Cancer in Jordan, 2000–2013
Authors: Khader Yousef S. , Sharkas Ghazi F. , Arkoub Kamal H. , Alfaqih Mahmoud A. , Nimri Omar F. , Khader Albaraa M.
Published: October 2018

Objectives. This study aimed to determine the overall incidence, trend, and epidemiology of cancer among Jordanians from 2000 to 2013 using data extracted from Jordan’s Cancer Registry (JCR). Methods. All cancer cases among Jordanians registered between 2000 and 2013 were analyzed using CanReg software and SPSS. The overall crude incidence rates (CIRs) and the age standardized rates (ASRs) of cancer per 100,000 were calculated. Results. A total of 58788 cancer cases were registered during the period 2000-2013. Of those, 28545 (48.6%) were males and 30243 (51.4%) were females. About three-quarters (77.3%) of the registered patients were ≥ 40 years in age. Overall, the average crude cancer incidence rate was 82.8/100,000 population during the 14-year study period. On the other hand, the ASR was 126/100,000 during the same period (124.2 /100,000 for males and 128.4 /100,000 for females). The cumulative top cancers among males were colorectal, lung, lymphoma, urinary bladder, and prostate, respectively, while those among females were breast, colorectal, lymphoma, thyroid, and uterine. The number of cancer cases has increased from 3370 in 2000 to 5409 in 2013 (60.5% increase over the 14 years). The percentage of increase was 68.4% in females and 52.5% in males. The ASR has also increased from 113.6 per 100,000 in 2000 to 142.1 per 100.000 in 2013 with a 25.1% of increase during the 14 years. Conclusion. Over the 14-year study period, incidence of cancer in Jordan has increased. However, it remains lower than that in other Eastern Mediterranean and Western countries. We recommend initiating screening programs for the most common types of cancer in Jordan that have valid screening tests to detect cancer during its early stages and reduce overall morbidity and mortality.
Cosine Similarity Measure between Hybrid Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets and Its Application in Medical Diagnosis
Authors: Liu Donghai , Chen Xiaohong , Peng Dan
Published: October 2018

In this paper, a cosine similarity measure between hybrid intuitionistic fuzzy sets is proposed. The aim of the paper is to investigate the cosine similarity measure with hybrid intuitionistic fuzzy information and apply it to medical diagnosis. Firstly, we construct the cosine similarity measure between hybrid intuitionistic fuzzy sets, and the relevant properties are also discussed. In order to obtain a reasonable evaluation in group decision, the weight of experts under different attributes is determined by the projection of individual decision information on the ideal decision information, where the ideal decision information is the average values of each expert’s evaluation. Furthermore, we propose a decision method for medical diagnosis based on the cosine similarity measure between hybrid intuitionistic fuzzy sets, and the patient can be diagnosed with the disease according to the values of proposed cosine similarity measure. Finally, an example is given to illustrate feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed cosine similarity measure, which is also compared with the existing similarity measures.
Experimental Investigation on the Behavior of Iron Powder‐Reinforced Sand under Electromagnetic Field
Authors: Lai Ying , Zhu Bin , Xu Xiangtian
Published: October 2018

Applications of soil improvement have proliferated in recent years. To date, we have limited studies on the quantitative analyses of the autoadaptive material and specifically to model its stress‐strain relationship. This paper explored an autoadaptive material, iron‐powdered Ottawa sand, which was temporarily solidified by applying an electromagnetic field. A series of compression triaxial tests were carried out with various relative densities of specimens (60% and 80%), in four electromagnetic fields (0 A, 0.5 A, 1 A, and 2 A) and under three confining pressures (103 kPa, 206 kPa, and 310 kPa). The test results indicate that the strength of specimens increased while initial stiffness and brittleness reduced by adding iron powder. Moreover, the strength of the specimens increased by increasing the magnitude of the applied electromagnetic field. The behavior of the iron‐powdered sand was described by using a revised Duncan–Chang model. The revised model was evaluated by comparing the simulated results with the corresponding test data. The comparison showed that the revised model can better capture the nonlinear stress‐strain behavior of the specimens. With the application of the revised Duncan–Chang model, the standard error of the estimate between the experimental and predicted results is lowered down to 0.39 from 4.7. Future research is geared towards practical applications for temporary solidification of soil.
Effect of Hydrofluoric Acid Etching on Performance of Si/C Composite as Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Su Mingru , Liu Shuai , Li Jinlin , Dou Aichun , Feng Weihang , Bai Jinchuan , Liu Yunjian
Published: October 2018

The effect of hydrofluoric acid (HF) etching on the performance of Si/C anode was extensively studied in terms of the structural stability, morphology, element distribution, and electrochemical properties. XRD results show that the diffraction peaks of silicon got weakened after being etched by HF. SEM images reveal that the morphology of the composite became coarse after being etched by HF. EDS mapping illustrates the distribution of elements before and after HF etching. Electrochemical studies show that HF etching can improve the cycling performance of Si/C composite but exhibit a deleterious effect on capacity. The results indicate that HF etching could be a promising method for enhancing the performance of silicon-based materials.