bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum pharmacokinetics and coagulation aberration induced by sodium dehydroacetate in male and female Wistar rats
Authors: Zhang Yumei , Ying Donglai , Liu Hao , Yu Zengrong , Han Lingling , Xie Jiayu , Xie Yang
Published: April 2017

Sodium dehydroacetate (Na-DHA) is used as a preservative in food, animal feeds and cosmetics. Severe haemorrhage in organs and prolongation of coagulation factors in Sprague–Dawley rats has been reported upon oral administration of Na-DHA. We investigated alterations in coagulation parameters and serum pharmacokinetics upon Na-DHA administration. Wistar rats were administered Na-DHA (50–200 mg/kg, p.o.). Weight gain, food consumption, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), serum levels of Vitamin k (Vk)1, and serum levels of Na-DHA were measured, and histopathology undertaken. Significant reductions in body weight, food consumption and serum levels of Vk1, as well as prolonged PT and APTT, were observed. Females were significantly different from males in terms of serum Na-DHA concentration. Congestion in hepatic sinusoids, renal tubules and spleen, as well as haemorrhage in lung alveoli, gastric mucosa, intestinal mucosa and cardiac muscle cells, were observed by histopathological analyses. Correlation of serum Na-DHAviaPT and APTT, as well as serum Vk1viaPT and APTT, in females was better than that in males. Female rats are more sensitive than males to Na-DHA. Hence, Na-DHA can induce coagulation aberration in Wistar rats, with higher sensitivity seen in females than males.
Identification of a variant-specific phosphorylation of TH2A during spermiogenesis
Authors: Hada Masashi , Masuda Koji , Yamaguchi Kosuke , Shirahige Katsuhiko , Okada Yuki
Published: April 2017

Tissue-specific histone variant incorporation into chromatin plays dynamic and important roles in tissue development. Testis is one such tissue, and a number of testis-specific histone variants are expressed that have unique roles. While it is expected that such variants acquire post-transcriptional modifications to be functional, identification of variant-specific histone modifications is challenging because of the high similarity of amino acid sequences between canonical and variant versions. Here we identified a novel phosphorylation on TH2A, a germ cell-specific histone H2A variant. TH2A-Thr127 is unique to the variant and phosphorylated concomitant with chromatin condensation including spermiogenesis and early embryonic mitosis. In sperm chromatin, phosphorylated TH2A-Thr127 (=pTH2A) is co-localized with H3.3 at transcriptional starting sites of the genome, and subsequently becomes absent from the paternal genome upon fertilization. Notably, pTH2A is recurrent and accumulated in the pericentromeric heterochromatin of both paternal and maternal chromosomes in the first mitosis of embryos, suggesting its unique regulation during spermiogenesis and early embryogenesis.
Elucidating dynamic metabolic physiology through network integration of quantitative time-course metabolomics
Authors: Bordbar Aarash , Yurkovich James T. , Paglia Giuseppe , Rolfsson Ottar , Sigurjónsson Ólafur E. , Palsson Bernhard O.
Published: April 2017

The increasing availability of metabolomics data necessitates novel methods for deeper data analysis and interpretation. We present a flux balance analysis method that allows for the computation of dynamic intracellular metabolic changes at the cellular scale through integration of time-course absolute quantitative metabolomics. This approach, termed “unsteady-state flux balance analysis” (uFBA), is applied to four cellular systems: three dynamic and one steady-state as a negative control. uFBA and FBA predictions are contrasted, and uFBA is found to be more accurate in predicting dynamic metabolic flux states for red blood cells, platelets, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Notably, only uFBA predicts that stored red blood cells metabolize TCA intermediates to regenerate important cofactors, such as ATP, NADH, and NADPH. These pathway usage predictions were subsequently validated through 13C isotopic labeling and metabolic flux analysis in stored red blood cells. Utilizing time-course metabolomics data, uFBA provides an accurate method to predict metabolic physiology at the cellular scale for dynamic systems.
Elevated emotional contagion in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease is associated with increased synchronization in the insula and amygdala
Authors: Choi Jiye , Jeong Yong
Published: April 2017

Emotional contagion, a primitive form of empathy, is heightened in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD); however, the mechanism underlying this attribute has not been thoroughly elucidated. In this study, observational fear conditioning was performed to measure emotional contagion levels in a mouse model of AD. Simultaneous recording of local field potentials in the bilateral anterior insula, basolateral amygdala, anterior cingulate cortex, and retrosplenial cortex was also conducted to investigate related brain network changes. Consistent with the results obtained with AD patients, 11-month-old AD model mice exhibited significantly higher freezing levels in observational fear conditioning, indicating elevated emotional contagion compared to age-matched wild-type mice. Furthermore, the left anterior insula and right basolateral amygdala of 11-months-old AD model mice indicated sustained increases in synchronization when they observed the suffering of conspecifics. These changes did not appear in other age groups or wild-type controls. Additionally, the amyloid plaque burden within the anterior insula was significantly correlated with the freezing levels in observational fear conditioning. Taken together, this study reveals increased and sustained network synchrony between the anterior insula and basolateral amygdala, which comprise a salience network in humans, as a potential mechanism for elevated emotional contagion in a mouse model of AD.
Detection of prion seeding activity in the olfactory mucosa of patients with Fatal Familial Insomnia
Authors: Redaelli Veronica , Bistaffa Edoardo , Zanusso Gianluigi , Salzano Giulia , Sacchetto Luca , Rossi Martina , De Luca Chiara Maria Giulia , Di Bari Michele , Portaleone Sara Maria , Agrimi Umberto , Legname Giuseppe , Roiter Ignazio , Forloni Gianluigi , Tagliavini Fabrizio , Moda Fabio
Published: April 2017

Fatal Familial Insomnia (FFI) is a genetic prion disease caused by a point mutation in the prion protein gene (PRNP) characterized by prominent thalamic atrophy, diffuse astrogliosis and moderate deposition of PrPSc in the brain. Here, for the first time, we demonstrate that the olfactory mucosa (OM) of patients with FFI contains trace amount of PrPSc detectable by PMCA and RT-QuIC. Quantitative PMCA analysis estimated a PrPSc concentration of about 1 × 10−14 g/ml. In contrast, PrPSc was not detected in OM samples from healthy controls and patients affected by other neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. These results indicate that the detection limit of these assays is in the order of a single PrPSc oligomer/molecule with a specificity of 100%.
Transcriptomic changes in an animal-bacterial symbiosis under modeled microgravity conditions
Authors: Casaburi Giorgio , Goncharenko-Foster Irina , Duscher Alexandrea A. , Foster Jamie S.
Published: April 2017

Spaceflight imposes numerous adaptive challenges for terrestrial life. The reduction in gravity, or microgravity, represents a novel environment that can disrupt homeostasis of many physiological processes. Additionally, it is becoming increasingly clear that an organism’s microbiome is critical for host health and examining its resiliency in microgravity represents a new frontier for space biology research. In this study, we examine the impact of microgravity on the interactions between the squidEuprymna scolopesand its beneficial symbiontVibrio fischeri, which form a highly specific binary mutualism. First, animals inoculated withV. fischeriaboard the space shuttle showed effective colonization of the host light organ, the site of the symbiosis, during space flight. Second, RNA-Seq analysis of squid exposed to modeled microgravity conditions exhibited extensive differential gene expression in the presence and absence of the symbiotic partner. Transcriptomic analyses revealed in the absence of the symbiont during modeled microgravity there was an enrichment of genes and pathways associated with the innate immune and oxidative stress response. The results suggest thatV. fischerimay help modulate the host stress responses under modeled microgravity. This study provides a window into the adaptive responses that the host animal and its symbiont use during modeled microgravity.
Design and synthesis of dichromeno[2,3-b;3′,2′-e]pyridine-12,14-dione to evaluate its optical properties
Authors: Biswas Pritam , Ghosh Jaydip , Sarkar Tapas , Jana Debabrata , Bandyopadhyay Chandrakanta
Published: April 2017

An unambiguous synthesis of dichromeno[2,3-b;3′,2′-e]pyridine-12,14-diones has been developed under mild conditions and their optical properties have been evaluated by studying UV-vis absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements, DFT calculations and thermogravimetric analysis.
Autonomous self-healing multiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposites with piezoresistive effect
Authors: Wu Tongfei , Chen Biqiong
Published: April 2017

Viscoelastic rubber reinforced by multiwalled carbon nanotubes exhibited rapid, autonomous, mechanically and electrically self-healing properties and piezoresistive behavior.
Design and preparation of efficient hydroisomerization catalysts by the formation of stable SAPO-11 molecular sieve nanosheets with 10–20 nm thickness and partially blocked acidic sites
Authors: Zhang Fen , Liu Yan , Sun Qi , Dai Zhifeng , Gies Hermann , Wu Qinming , Pan Shuxiang , Bian Chaoqun , Tian Zhijian , Meng Xiangju , Zhang Yi , Zou Xiaodong , Yi Xianfeng , Zheng Anmin , Wang Liang , Xiao Feng-Shou
Published: April 2017

Stable SAPO-11 nanosheets (10–20 nm thickness) with partially blocked acidity are successfully prepared.
The asymmetric reduction of imidazolinones with trichlorosilane
Authors: Wagner Christian , Kotthaus Andreas F. , Kirsch Stefan F.
Published: April 2017

The asymmetric reduction of imidazolinones with trichlorosilane is described, catalyzed through a chiral bispyrrolidine organocatalyst.
A square-planar osmium(ii) complex
Authors: Abbenseth Josh , Diefenbach Martin , Bete Sarah C. , Würtele Christian , Volkmann Christian , Demeshko Serhiy , Holthausen Max C. , Schneider Sven
Published: April 2017

Reduction of the pincer complex [OsIIICl2(PNP)] (PNP = N(CHCHPtBu2)2) affords the isolation and full characterization of an osmium(ii) complex with square-planar coordination geometry, i.e. [OsIICl(PNP)].
Nanoscale controlled Li-insertion reaction induced by scanning electron-beam irradiation in a Li4Ti5O12 electrode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Kitta Mitsunori , Kohyama Masanori
Published: April 2017

Electron beam of scanning transmission electron microscopy can induce nanoscale-controlled Li-insertion in Li4Ti5O12 electrode, which is significant as a new type of electron beam-assisted chemical reactions for local structural and property modifications.
Exploiting hydrogen bonding interactions to probe smaller linear and cyclic diamines binding to G-quadruplexes: a DFT and molecular dynamics study
Authors: Kanti Si Mrinal , Sen Anik , Ganguly Bishwajit
Published: April 2017

This report reveals that hydrogen bonding interactions between the ligand and G-quadruplex can initiate an alternative binding motif to typical π-stacking interactions.
Unexpected proton mobility in the bulk phase of cholinium-based ionic liquids: new insights from theoretical calculations
Authors: Campetella Marco , Montagna Maria , Gontrani Lorenzo , Scarpellini Eleonora , Bodo Enrico
Published: April 2017

A chain of aspartic acid anions connected by H-bonds exchanging protons.
Building new discrete supramolecular assemblies through the interaction of iso-tellurazole N-oxides with Lewis acids and bases
Authors: Ho Peter C. , Jenkins Hilary A. , Britten James F. , Vargas-Baca Ignacio
Published: April 2017

The supramolecular macrocycles spontaneously assembled by iso-tellurazole N-oxides are stable towards Lewis bases as strong as N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHC) but readily react with Lewis acids such as BR3 (R = Ph, F). The electron acceptor ability of the tellurium atom is greatly enhanced in the resulting O-bonded adducts, which consequently enables binding to a variety of Lewis bases that includes acetonitrile, 4-dimethylaminopyridine, 4,4′-bipyridine, triphenyl phosphine, a N-heterocyclic carbene and a second molecule of iso-tellurazole N-oxide.
Deposition potential controlled structural and thermoelectric behavior of electrodeposited CoSb3 thin films
Authors: Yadav Suchitra , Yadav Brajesh S. , Chaudhary Sujeet , Pandya Dinesh K.
Published: April 2017

Deposition potential controlled evolution of (420) textured CoSb3 phase and micro structure correlated to enhancement in near room temperature thermoelectric power-factor.
Synthesis of polyoxymethylene dimethyl ethers catalyzed by sulfonic acid-functionalized mesoporous SBA-15
Authors: Xue Zhenzhen , Shang Hongyan , Xiong Chunhua , Lu Changbo , An Gaojun , Zhang Zailong , Cui Chuntao , Xu Mingjie
Published: April 2017

Sulfonic acid-functionalized mesoporous SBA-15 with different sulfur loading was synthesized and used to investigate the catalytic performance for PODEn synthesis.
Isomaltooligosaccharide-binding structure of Paenibacillus sp. 598K cycloisomaltooligosaccharide glucanotransferase
Authors: Fujimoto Zui , Kishine Naomi , Suzuki Nobuhiro , Suzuki Ryuichiro , Mizushima Daiki , Momma Mitsuru , Kimura Keitarou , Funane Kazumi
Published: April 2017

Paenibacillus sp. 598K cycloisomaltooligosaccharide glucanotransferase (CITase), a member of glycoside hydrolase family 66 (GH66), catalyses the intramolecular transglucosylation of dextran to produce CIs with seven or more degrees of polymerization. To clarify the cyclization reaction and product specificity of the enzyme, we determined the crystal structure of PsCITase. The core structure of PsCITase consists of four structural domains: a catalytic (β/α)8-domain and three β-domains. A family 35 carbohydrate-binding module (first CBM35 region of Paenibacillus sp. 598K CITase, (PsCBM35-1)) is inserted into and protrudes from the catalytic domain. The ligand complex structure of PsCITase prepared by soaking the crystal with cycloisomaltoheptaose yielded bound sugars at three sites: in the catalytic cleft, at the joint of the PsCBM35-1 domain and at the loop region of PsCBM35-1. In the catalytic site, soaked cycloisomaltoheptaose was observed as a linear isomaltoheptaose, presumably a hydrolysed product from cycloisomaltoheptaose by the enzyme and occupied subsites –7 to –1. Beyond subsite –7, three glucose moieties of another isomaltooiligosaccharide were observed, and these positions are considered to be distal subsites –13 to –11. The third binding site is the canonical sugar-binding site at the loop region of PsCBM35-1, where the soaked cycloisomaltoheptaose is bound. The structure indicated that the concave surface between the catalytic domain and PsCBM35-1 plays a guiding route for the long-chained substrate at the cyclization reaction.
Speech Recognition in Adults With Cochlear Implants: The Effects of Working Memory, Phonological Sensitivity, and Aging
Authors: Moberly Aaron C. , Harris Michael S. , Boyce Lauren , Nittrouer Susan
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Models of speech recognition suggest that “top-down” linguistic and cognitive functions, such as use of phonotactic constraints and working memory, facilitate recognition under conditions of degradation, such as in noise. The question addressed in this study was what happens to these functions when a listener who has experienced years of hearing loss obtains a cochlear implant.

Method

Thirty adults with cochlear implants and 30 age-matched controls with age-normal hearing underwent testing of verbal working memory using digit span and serial recall of words. Phonological capacities were assessed using a lexical decision task and nonword repetition. Recognition of words in sentences in speech-shaped noise was measured.

Results

Implant users had only slightly poorer working memory accuracy than did controls and only on serial recall of words; however, phonological sensitivity was highly impaired. Working memory did not facilitate speech recognition in noise for either group. Phonological sensitivity predicted sentence recognition for implant users but not for listeners with normal hearing.

Conclusion

Clinical speech recognition outcomes for adult implant users relate to the ability of these users to process phonological information. Results suggest that phonological capacities may serve as potential clinical targets through rehabilitative training. Such novel interventions may be particularly helpful for older adult implant users.
A Diagnostic Marker to Discriminate Childhood Apraxia of Speech From Speech Delay: II. Validity Studies of the Pause Marker
Authors: Shriberg Lawrence D. , Strand Edythe A. , Fourakis Marios , Jakielski Kathy J. , Hall Sheryl D. , Karlsson Heather B. , Mabie Heather L. , McSweeny Jane L. , Tilkens Christie M. , Wilson David L.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this 2nd article in this supplement is to report validity support findings for the Pause Marker (PM), a proposed single-sign diagnostic marker of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS).

Method

PM scores and additional perceptual and acoustic measures were obtained from 296 participants in cohorts with idiopathic and neurogenetic CAS, adult-onset apraxia of speech and primary progressive apraxia of speech, and idiopathic speech delay.

Results

Adjusted for questionable specificity disagreements with a pediatric Mayo Clinic diagnostic standard, the estimated sensitivity and specificity, respectively, of the PM were 86.8% and 100% for the CAS cohort, yielding positive and negative likelihood ratios of 56.45 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.15, 2763.31]) and 0.13 (95% CI [0.06, 0.30]). Specificity of the PM for 4 cohorts totaling 205 participants with speech delay was 98.5%.

Conclusion

These findings are interpreted as providing support for the PM as a near-conclusive diagnostic marker of CAS.
Vocalization Rate and Consonant Production in Toddlers at High and Low Risk for Autism
Authors: Chenausky Karen , Nelson Charles , Tager-Flusberg Helen
Published: April 2017

Background

Previous work has documented lower vocalization rate and consonant acquisition delays in toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We investigated differences in these variables at 12, 18, and 24 months in toddlers at high and low risk for ASD.

Method

Vocalization rate and number of different consonants were obtained from speech samples from a prospective study of infant siblings of children with ASD. Three groups were compared: 18 toddlers at low risk for ASD (low-risk control), 18 high-risk siblings without ASD (HRA−), and 10 high-risk siblings with ASD (HRA+).

Results

All groups' mean language scores were within the normal range. HRA+ toddlers showed consistently lower vocalization rate; vocalization rate did not predict number of different consonants at 12 months for HRA+. HRA−, not HRA+, toddlers had the smallest number of different consonants and produced significantly fewer different consonants than predicted by their vocalization rate at 12 months. Consonant-acquisition trajectories differed between groups, with HRA− showing the greatest increase from 12 to 18 months.

Conclusion

Lower vocalization rate was not associated with reduced number of different consonants in these toddlers. Between-groups differences in developmental trajectories are discussed in the context of the social feedback loop and differential ability to benefit from adult feedback between groups.
Explicit and Implicit Verbal Response Inhibition in Preschool-Age Children Who Stutter
Authors: Anderson Julie D. , Wagovich Stacy A.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine (a) explicit and implicit verbal response inhibition in preschool children who do stutter (CWS) and do not stutter (CWNS) and (b) the relationship between response inhibition and language skills.

Method

Participants were 41 CWS and 41 CWNS between the ages of 3;1 and 6;1 (years;months). Explicit verbal response inhibition was measured using a computerized version of the grass–snow task (Carlson & Moses, 2001), and implicit verbal response inhibition was measured using the baa–meow task. Main dependent variables were reaction time and accuracy.

Results

The CWS were significantly less accurate than the CWNS on the implicit task, but not the explicit task. The CWS also exhibited slower reaction times than the CWNS on both tasks. Between-group differences in performance could not be attributed to working memory demands. Overall, children's performance on the inhibition tasks corresponded with parents' perceptions of their children's inhibition skills in daily life.

Conclusions

CWS are less effective and efficient than CWNS in suppressing a dominant response while executing a conflicting response in the verbal domain.
Beyond Comprehension Strategy Instruction: What's Next?
Authors: Elleman Amy M. , Compton Donald L.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

In this article, we respond to Catts and Kamhi's (2017) argument that reading comprehension is not a single ability.

Method

We provide a brief review of the impact of strategy instruction, the importance of knowledge in reading comprehension, and possible avenues for future research and practice.

Results

We agree with Catts and Kamhi's argument that reading comprehension is a complex endeavor and that current recommended practices do not reflect the complexity of the construct. Knowledge building, despite its important role in comprehension, has been relegated to a back seat in reading comprehension instruction. In the final section of the article, we outline possible avenues for research and practice (e.g., generative language instruction, dialogic approaches to knowledge building, analogical reasoning and disciplinary literacy, the use of graphics and media, inference instruction) for improving reading-comprehension outcomes.

Conclusions

Reading comprehension is a complex ability, and comprehension instruction should reflect this complexity. If we want to have an impact on long-term growth in reading comprehension, we will need to expand our current repertoire of instructional methods to include approaches that support the acquisition and integration of knowledge across a variety of texts and topics.
Analysis of FPA and BA meta‐heuristic controllers for optimal path planning of mobile robot in cluttered environment
Authors: Ghosh Saradindu , Panigrahi Pratap K. , Parhi Dayal R.
Published: April 2017

This study proposes the design of two efficient nature inspired intelligent optimal controllers, flower pollination algorithm (FPA) and bat algorithm (BA) for obtaining optimal path using an autonomous mobile robot in an unknown environment. FPA is based on the pollination process of flowering plants, which transfer pollens by using different pollinators. On the contrary, BA depends on echolocation and frequency tuning to solve different types of optimisation problems in engineering. To accomplish the path‐planning task of mobile robot autonomously, a fitness function has been introduced considering the distance between robot‐obstacle and robot‐goal to satisfy the conditions of obstacle avoidance and goal reaching behaviour of robot. Based on the values of objective function of the algorithms, mobile robot avoids obstacles in the unknown environment and moves towards the goal. In this work, the efficiency of such controllers is verified using some simulations in MATLAB environment. Further, an experimental work is carried out in real‐world environment using ARDUINO Mega 2560 microcontroller to ascertain the path length, travelling time and convergence speed of the two algorithms.
Characterising a PCB electrical conductivity sensor using electromagnetic simulation and a genetic algorithm
Authors: Werner Frank T. , Dean Robert N.
Published: April 2017

Measuring electrical conductivity makes it possible to determine the concentration of dissolved ionic compounds in the water. Presented is a sensor developed for easily measuring the electrical conductivity of aqueous solutions. This sensor is comprised of two planar electrodes integrated onto a printed circuit board (PCB). PCB technology enables this sensor to be manufactured at high volumes for a modest cost. However, when the sensor is integrated into a PCB, it becomes difficult to analytically determine the influence the dimensions of the sensor's electrodes have on its measurements. In this research, a genetic algorithm was used to derive an equation predicting the behaviour of a PCB sensor with any reasonable electrode dimensions. Afterwards, the accuracy of this equation was evaluated by comparing its predictions to the measurements taken using actual sensors.
Demonstration of low‐cost and compact SPR optical transducer through edge light coupling
Authors: Somarapalli Manjunath , Koul Kartik , Lahon Rimli , Boonruang Sakoolkan , Mohammed Waleed S.
Published: April 2017

This work demonstrates experimentally a simple and practical low‐cost surface plasmon resonance (SPR) system towards sensing applications. The cost is minimised through the elimination of many bulky optical components such as collimation lenses and prism. An off‐shelf white light‐emitting diode is directly coupled to a gold coated glass slide at a proper incident angle, while the output is collected with a bare multimode optical fibre mounted at the same incident angle and connected to a commercial spectrometer. Proper alignment of the components is achieved through building a mount using three‐dimensional printing technology. The developed system is tested with glycerol solutions having different concentrations and the detection limit measured in the order of 10−4 RIU (refractive index unit). The system cost can be further reduced through mass production and when a low‐cost in‐house spectrometer is built while keeping the same precision.
Interest in Aesthetic Rhinoplasty Scale
Authors: Naraghi Mohsen , Atari Mohammad
Published: April 2017

Interest in cosmetic surgery is increasing, with rhinoplasty being one of the most popular surgical procedures. It is essential that surgeons identify patients with existing psychological conditions before any procedure. This study aimed to develop and validate the Interest in Aesthetic Rhinoplasty Scale (IARS). Four studies were conducted to develop the IARS and to evaluate different indices of validity (face, content, construct, criterion, and concurrent validities) and reliability (internal consistency, split-half coefficient, and temporal stability) of the scale. The four study samples included a total of 463 participants. Statistical analysis revealed satisfactory psychometric properties in all samples. Scores on the IARS were negatively correlated with self-esteem scores (r = –0.296; p < 0.01) and positively associated with scores for psychopathologic symptoms (r = 0.164; p < 0.05), social dysfunction (r = 0.268; p < 0.01), and depression (r = 0.308; p < 0.01). The internal and test–retest coefficients of consistency were found to be high (α = 0.93; intraclass coefficient = 0.94). Rhinoplasty patients were found to have significantly higher IARS scores than nonpatients (p < 0.001). Findings of the present studies provided evidence for face, content, construct, criterion, and concurrent validities and internal and test–retest reliability of the IARS. This evidence supports the use of the scale in clinical and research settings.
Effect of Footwear on Dynamic Stability during Single-leg Jump Landings
Authors: Bowser Bradley , Rose William , McGrath Robert , Salerno Jilian , Wallace Joshua , Davis Irene
Published: April 2017

Barefoot and minimal footwear running has led to greater interest in the biomechanical effects of different types of footwear. The effect of running footwear on dynamic stability is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to compare dynamic stability and impact loading across 3 footwear conditions; barefoot, minimal footwear and standard running shoes. 25 injury free runners (21 male, 4 female) completed 5 single-leg jump landings in each footwear condition. Dynamic stability was assessed using the dynamic postural stability index and its directional components (mediolateral, anteroposterior, vertical). Peak vertical ground reaction force and vertical loadrates were also compared across footwear conditions. Dynamic stability was dependent on footwear type for all stability indices (ANOVA, p<0.05). Post-hoc tests showed dynamic stability was greater when barefoot than in running shoes for each stability index (p<0.02) and greater than minimal footwear for the anteroposterior stability index (p<0.01). Peak vertical force and average loadrates were both dependent on footwear (p≤0.05). Dynamic stability, peak vertical force, and average loadrates during single-leg jump landings appear to be affected by footwear type. The results suggest greater dynamic stability and lower impact loading when landing barefoot or in minimal footwear.
Validation of the Automated Electronic Microemboli Detection System in Patients Undergoing Carotid Endarterectomy
Authors: Leunissen Tesse , van Vriesland Daniel , den Ruijter Hester , Moll Frans , Mess Werner , de Borst Gert Jan
Published: April 2017

Purpose To assess the diagnostic value of automatic embolus detection software (AEDS) in transcranial Doppler (TCD) monitoring for the detection of solid microemboli in patients at risk for perioperative stroke during carotid endarterectomy (CEA).

Materials and Methods In 50 patients undergoing CEA, perioperative TCD registration was recorded. All recorded events, identified and saved by the AEDS, were analyzed off-line doubly by two human experts (HEs) within a time frame of > 4 months. The inter- and intraobserver variability was assessed. The overall agreement with the HEs, the sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values (NPV and PPV) of the AEDS were computed for different cut-offs (patient displaying perioperative 5, 10, 20, 25, or 50 microemboli).

Results 77 233 events were analyzed. The inter- and intraobserver variability was good (min κ = 0.72, max κ = 0.79). AEDS and the HEs identified 760 and 470 solid emboli, respectively. The agreement between AEDS and the HEs for solid emboli detection was poor (κ = 0.24, SE = 0.016). The specificity and NPV were high (99.2 % and 99.6 %) but the sensitivity and PPV were low (30.6 % and 19.8 %). Applying a threshold of > 20 microemboli resulted in the best sensitivity (100.0 %), specificity (84.4 %), PPV (42.7 %), NPV (100.0 %) and area under the curve (0.898). However, 58.3 % of the patients were false positive as classified by AEDS.

Conclusion In this validation cohort, AEDS has insufficient agreement with HEs in the identification of solid emboli. AEDS and HEs disagree with respect to the identification of specific patients at risk. Therefore, AEDS cannot be used as a standalone system to identify patients at risk for perioperative stroke during CEA.
Methodologies for leapfrogging to low carbon and sustainable development in Asia
Authors: Kainuma Mikiko , Pandey Rahul , Masui Toshihiko , Nishioka Shuzo
Published: April 2017

It is clear that much more drastic and early actions than those that are presently being undertaken are needed to limit the average global temperature increase to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels. The Asian region, accounting for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions and growing at a rapid economic pace, has a major role to play in the world's transition to a low carbon society (LCS). To design leapfrog pathways to low carbon and sustainable development, it is important to have a scientific tool that can develop LCS pathways and analyze the effectiveness of policies to achieve them under different scenarios. The Asia-Pacific Integrated Assessment Model (AIM) is an effective tool to support these analyses. It has been developed by researchers in Asia and used in policymaking processes in Asia. It can provide comprehensive and consistent assessment of various policies, including macro-economic policies and technological measures. It can analyze trade-offs between rapid economic growth in Asia and its environmental impact and assess sustainable development policies. This paper presents the processes of designing LCS policies and how modeling tools can support the analyses of the leapfrog pathways to a LCS. As a modeling tool, the family of AIM models is explained and their applications in Asia are presented. Procedures to design and implement low carbon policies together with the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle are also presented.
Free energy of formation of a crystal nucleus in incongruent solidification: Implication for modeling the crystallization of aqueous nitric acid droplets in polar stratospheric clouds
Authors: Djikaev Yuri S. , Ruckenstein Eli
Published: April 2017

Using the formalism of classical thermodynamics in the framework of the classical nucleation theory, we derive an expression for the reversible work W* of formation of a binary crystal nucleus in a liquid binary solution of non-stoichiometric composition (incongruent crystallization). Applied to the crystallization of aqueous nitric acid droplets, the new expression more adequately takes account of the effects of nitric acid vapor compared to the conventional expression of MacKenzie, Kulmala, Laaksonen, and Vesala (MKLV) [J. Geophys. Res.: Atmos. 102, 19729 (1997)]. The predictions of both MKLV and modified expressions for the average liquid-solid interfacial tension σls of nitric acid dihydrate (NAD) crystals are compared by using existing experimental data on the incongruent crystallization of aqueous nitric acid droplets of composition relevant to polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs). The predictions for σls based on the MKLV expression are higher by about 5% compared to predictions based on our modified expression. This results in similar differences between the predictions of both expressions for the solid-vapor interfacial tension σsv of NAD crystal nuclei. The latter can be obtained by using the method based on the analysis of experimental data on crystal nucleation rates in aqueous nitric acid droplets; it exploits the dominance of the surface-stimulated mode of crystal nucleation in small droplets and its negligibility in large ones. Applying that method to existing experimental data, our expression for the free energy of formation provides an estimate for σsv of NAD in the range ≈92 dyn/cm to ≈100 dyn/cm, while the MKLV expression predicts it in the range ≈95 dyn/cm to ≈105 dyn/cm. The predictions of both expressions for W* become identical for the case of congruent crystallization; this was also demonstrated by applying our method for determining σsv to the nucleation of nitric acid trihydrate crystals in PSC droplets of stoichiometric composition.
Relaxation matrix for symmetric tops with inversion symmetry: Line coupling and line mixing effects on NH3 lines in the 𝝂4 band
Authors: Ma Q. , Boulet C. , Tipping R. H.
Published: April 2017

Line shape parameters including the half-widths and the off-diagonal elements of the relaxation matrix have been calculated for self-broadened NH3 lines in the perpendicular ν4 band. As in the pure rotational and the parallel ν1 bands, the small inversion splitting in this band causes a complete failure of the isolated line approximation. As a result, one has to use formalisms not relying on this approximation. However, due to differences between parallel and perpendicular bands of NH3, the applicability of the formalism used in our previous studies of the ν1 band and other parallel bands must be carefully verified. We have found that, as long as potential models only contain components with K1 = K2 = 0, whose matrix elements require the selection rule Δk = 0, the formalism is applicable for the ν4 band with some minor adjustments. Based on both theoretical considerations and results from numerical calculations, the non-diagonality of the relaxation matrices in all the PP, RP, PQ, RQ, PR, and RR branches is discussed. Theoretically calculated self-broadened half-widths are compared with measurements and the values listed in HITRAN 2012. With respect to line coupling effects, we have compared our calculated intra-doublet off-diagonal elements of the relaxation matrix with reliable measurements carried out in the PP branch where the spectral environment is favorable. The agreement is rather good since our results do well reproduce the observed k and j dependences of these elements, thus validating our formalism.
Passively mode-locked InAs quantum dot lasers on a silicon substrate by Pd-GaAs wafer bonding
Authors: Wang Zihao , Fanto Michael L. , Steidle Jeffrey A. , Aboketaf Abdelsalam A. , Rummage Nathan A. , Thomas Paul M. , Lee Chi-Sen , Guo Wei , Lester Luke F. , Preble Stefan F.
Published: April 2017

We demonstrate an electrically pumped InAs quantum dot (QD) two-section passively mode-locked laser (MLL) on a silicon substrate by low temperature (250 °C) Pd-GaAs wafer bonding technology. The saturable absorber of the QD-MLL is electrically isolated by a 15-μm wide dry-etching gap which resulted in ∼30 kΩ resistance from the gain regions of the MLL. At room temperature, the laser operates in the O-band (1.3 μm) telecommunication wavelength regime with a threshold current of 94 mA and laser bar cavity and absorber lengths of 6 mm and 300 μm, respectively. The optimum mode-locked conditions are observed under injection current and reverse bias voltage of 124 mA and −7 V, which generates pulses at a repetition rate of 7.3 GHz, an optical bandwidth of 0.97 nm, and a nearly transform limited pulse width of 2 ps (sech2 pulse profile). These results enable QD-MLLs to be integrated with silicon photonic integrated circuits, such as optical time division multiplexing and optical clocks.
Laser cooling of CaBr molecules and production of ultracold Br atoms: A theoretical study including spin–orbit coupling
Authors: Fu Mingkai , Ma Haitao , Cao Jianwei , Bian Wensheng
Published: April 2017

Owing to the exciting potential applications of ultracold atoms and molecules in many fields, developing new cooling schemes has attracted great interests in recent years. Here, we investigate laser cooling of CaBr molecules and design a photonic scheme for the production of ultracold Br atoms using the highly accurate ab initio and dynamical methods. We find that the AΠ1/22(ν′=0)→X2Σ1/2+(ν=0) transition for CaBr features a large vibrational branching ratio, a significant photon-scattering rate, and no intermediate electronic-state interference, indicating that the ultracold CaBr could be produced through a three-laser cooling scheme. Moreover, an efficient four-pulse excitation scheme from the ground rovibrational level of the cooled CaBr molecules is proposed to yield ultracold Br atoms, in which a few spin–orbit excited states are utilized as the intermediate states. The importance of the spin–orbit coupling is underscored in this work.
Theory of charge transport in molecular junctions: Role of electron correlation
Authors: Chang Yao-Wen , Jin Bih-Yaw
Published: April 2017

We extend the quasi-particle renormalized perturbation theory developed in our previous work [Y.-W. Chang and B.-Y. Jin, J. Chem. Phys. 141, 064111 (2014)] based on nonequilibrium Green’s function techniques to study the effects of electron correlation on the charge transport process in molecular junctions. In this formalism, the single-impurity Anderson’s model is used as the zeroth-order Hamiltonian of each channel orbital, and the inter-channel interactions are treated by perturbation corrections. Within this scheme, the on-channel Coulomb repulsion and the single-particle spectral line-broadening can be incorporated in the zeroth-order approximation, and thus the Coulomb blockade and coherent tunneling through individual channels can be described properly. Beyond the zeroth-order description, electron correlation can be included through the self-energy corrections in the forms of the second-Born approximation and the GW approximation. The effects of electron correlation on molecular junctions are manifested as the orbital energy correction, correlated transport process, and collisional line-broadening. As an application, we have applied the present formalism to phenyl-based molecular junctions described by the Pariser-Parr-Pople Hamiltonian. The signatures of electron correlation in the simulated current-voltage curves are identified and discussed.
Carrying out the Paris Agreement: Role of research communities in supporting scientific climate policy
Authors: Ishikawa Tomoko , Nishioka Shuzo
Published: April 2017

After COP21, it is a matter of urgency to build capacity for low-carbon development via relationships between developed and developing countries. The new model supporting developing countries' self-reliance and “leapfrog” development should be put forward with cooperation between the developed and developing countries. In this regard, Japan has moved forward with this form of support towards Asia, and as a result, Asia's own climate response capacity has gradually risen.
Optimization of atomically smooth and metallic surface of SrTiO3
Authors: Kwak In Hae , Varnoosfaderani Sima saeidi , Barquist Colin S. , Paykar Ashkan , Shakya Ambika , Lee Yoonseok , Hebard Arthur F. , Biswas Amlan
Published: April 2017

We obtained metallic SrTiO3 with an atomically smooth surface, where the step height is close to the unit cell height of the crystal. After the surface treatments for generating the TiO2 terminated layer, the optimal conditions for vacuum annealing were found. The atomically smooth surface was verified by atomic force microscopy and lateral force microscopy. The temperature dependent resistance R(T) measured down to 52 mK indicates the metallic behavior, and its physical origin of the conduction was analyzed by fitting an equation involving electron-phonon and electron-electron scattering mechanisms. Our results are similar to R(T) reported for LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interfaces. In addition, the Hall effect measurement shows a clear resemblance between our reduced SrTiO3 and LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interfaces with sheet carrier density and Hall mobility. We expect that our treatments not only promote the usage of conducting SrTiO3 substrates for subsequent thin film growth but also contribute to the current research interest in two dimensional electron gas (2DEG) SrTiO3 and the interfaces between insulating oxides of LaAlO3/SrTiO3.
Microbiology of winemaking
Authors: Bartowsky Eveline
Published: April 2017

The production of alcoholic beverages, such as winemaking, has a long history, dating back well over 7000 years. The winemaking process is not vastly different to that used by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians. The main difference is that modern-day winemakers have much more control over the different steps; time and method of grape harvesting, use of selected yeast and bacteria, and maturation techniques. The various yeast and bacteria involved in winemaking originate in the vineyard, on grapes and winemaking equipment. Even though yeast and bacteria can impart desirable sensory characteristics to wine, this is not always the case – there are numerous microbes that are unwanted. This overview of wine microbiology will be limited to yeast and bacterial fermentations and microbiological spoilage by these microbes, and will not cover vineyard moulds.
Integrating content and foreign language learning
Authors: Lasagabaster David
Published: April 2017

Content and language integrated learning (CLIL) programmes have recently gained momentum in many European countries in the belief that students will significantly improve their foreign language proficiency while content learning is not negatively affected. Based on a longitudinal qualitative approach, this article focuses on students’ reflections on their experience with CLIL. Previous studies have shown that students are able to reflect on organizational conditions and their learning process, while their reflections allow researchers to identify some of the key elements in students’ beliefs. Through focus groups carried out over a three-year period, this study gathers secondary education students’ reflections on their motivational stance, the CLIL experience, and the use of their linguistic repertoire in the CLIL classroom. By tapping into students’ language beliefs, reflections, and motivation, a clearer picture of CLIL settings will be available by bringing to light both the strengths and weaknesses of these programmes.
“I feel like having a nervous breakdown”
Authors: Burri Michael , Baker Amanda , Chen Honglin
Published: April 2017

Evidence on the impact of second language teacher education is inconclusive in the area of pronunciation pedagogy. This study explores how the cognition (knowledge, beliefs, thoughts, attitudes and perceptions) of 10 pre-service and five in-service teachers developed during a postgraduate course on pronunciation pedagogy. Questionnaire items, focus group meetings, semi-structured interviews, classroom observations and an assessment task were used to trace the development of participants’ beliefs and knowledge. Findings demonstrated that the development of the student teachers’ cognition was limited and the notion of integrating pronunciation into L2 lessons proved to be challenging for participants irrespective of their pronunciation teaching background. Also, while student teachers’ awareness about the benefits of kinesthetic/tactile teaching techniques increased, native English-speaking teachers without any pronunciation teaching experience appeared to be particularly susceptible to factors restricting cognition development. The paper concludes with a discussion about implications for language teacher educators preparing pronunciation instructors.
Non-target effects of insect biocontrol agents and trends in host specificity since 1985.
Authors: Driesche R. van , Hoddle M.
Published: April 2017

Non-target impacts of parasitoids and predaceous arthropods used for classical biological control of invasive insects include five types of impact: (1) direct attacks on native insects; (2) negative foodweb effects, such as competition for prey, apparent competition, or displacement of native species; (3) positive foodweb effects that benefited non-target species; (4) hybridization of native species with introduced natural enemies; and (5) attacks on introduced weed biocontrol agents. Examples are presented and the commonness of effects discussed. For the most recent three decades (1985-2015), analysis of literature on the host range information for 158 species of parasitoids introduced in this period showed a shift in the third decade (2005-2015) towards a preponderance of agents with an index of genus-level (60%) or species-level (8%) specificity (with only 12% being assigned a family-level or above index of specificity) compared with the first and second decades, when 50 and 40% of introductions had family level or above categorizations of specificity and only 21-27 (1985-1994 and 1995-2004, respectively) with genus or 1-11% (1985-1994 and 1995-2004, respectively) with species-level specificity. In all three decades, 11-12% of introductions could not be classified in this manner due to lack of information. Recommendations for future actions to improve this record are made: (1) distinguish host use from population-level impact; (2) develop country-level online summaries of relevant information; (3) plan biological control projects with conservation partners; and (4) conduct post-release comparisons of actual impact to predicted risk based on quarantine studies.