bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoreduction route for Cu2O/TiO2 nanotubes junction for enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Pham Van Viet , Bui Dai Phat , Tran Hong Huy , Cao Minh Thi , Nguyen Tri Khoa , Kim Yong Soo , Le Van Hieu
Published: April 2018

Good photocatalytic performance is demonstrated by Cu2O NPs directly loaded onto hydrothermally synthesized TiO2 NTs via photoreduction method conducted with a lower power UV lamp at room temp. This is due to narrowing bandgap and forming an internal electric field.
A series of Ln4III clusters: Dy4 single molecule magnet and Tb4 multi-responsive luminescent sensor for Fe3+, CrO42−/Cr2O72− and 4-nitroaniline
Authors: Qin Yaru , Ge Yu , Zhang Shasha , Sun Hao , Jing Yu , Li Yahong , Liu Wei
Published: April 2018

Five tetranuclear lanthanide clusters were synthesized. Dy4 complex exhibits single molecule magnet (SMM) behavior and Tb4 compound shows sensing properties towards Fe3+, CrO42−, Cr2O72− and 4-nitroaniline (4-NA).
A facile one-pot green synthesis of gold nanoparticle-graphene-PEDOT:PSS nanocomposite for selective electrochemical detection of dopamine
Authors: Pananon Paweena , Sriprachuabwong Chakrit , Wisitsoraat Anurat , Chuysinuan Piyachat , Tuantranont Adisorn , Saparpakorn Patchareenart , Dechtrirat Decha
Published: April 2018

A facile one-pot green synthesis of gold nanoparticle-graphene-PEDOT:PSS nanocomposite was successfully demonstrated.
Pt-grown carbon nanofibers for detection of hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Isoaho Noora , Sainio Sami , Wester Niklas , Botello Luis , Johansson Leena-Sisko , Peltola Emilia , Climent Victor , Feliu Juan M. , Koskinen Jari , Laurila Tomi
Published: April 2018

Application specific Pt-grown carbon nanofibers for H2O2 detection were characterized and the roles of dissolved oxygen and chloride ions on the electrochemical performance were assessed in detail.
A three-dimensional self-assembled SnS2-nano-dots@graphene hybrid aerogel as an efficient polysulfide reservoir for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Luo Liu , Chung Sheng-Heng , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: April 2018

A free-standing self-assembled graphene aerogel embedded with SnS2nano-dots (SnS2-ND@G) is established as an efficient substrate for high-loading sulfur cathodes with synergistically physical and chemical polysulfide-trapping capability.
Tailoring the framework of organic small molecule semiconductors towards high-performance thermoelectric composites via conglutinated carbon nanotube webs
Authors: Yin Xiaojun , Peng Yuhao , Luo Jiajia , Zhou Xiaoyan , Gao Chunmei , Wang Lei , Yang Chuluo
Published: April 2018

Regulating the structure of p-type organic small molecules to generate thermoelectric composites for achieving a high power factor of 113.2 μW m−1 K−2.
Correction: An elastomer for epidermal electronics with adjustable adhesion force and stretchability obtained via a reverse-micelle-induced process
Authors: Kim Junhyung , Hwang Yujin , Jeong Sunho , Lee Su Yeon , Choi Youngmin , Jung Sungmook
Published: April 2018

Correction for ‘An elastomer for epidermal electronics with adjustable adhesion force and stretchability obtained via a reverse-micelle-induced process’ by Junhyung Kim et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2018, 6, 2210–2215.
Contribution of Factor VIII A2 Domain Residues 400–409 to a Factor X-Interactive Site in the Factor Xase Complex
Authors: Takeyama Masahiro , Sasai Kana , Furukawa Shoko , Shima Midori , Nogami Keiji
Published: April 2018

The link between factor (F)VIII and FX is essential for optimum activity of the tenase complex. The interactive site(s) in FVIII for FX remains to be completely clarified, however. We investigated the FVIII A2 domain-FX association that was speculated from inhibitory mechanism(s) by an anti-A2 autoantibody. SDS-PAGE demonstrated that the purified inhibitor IgG recognizing residues 373–562 blocked FXa cleavage at Arg372 in FVIII, and surface-plasmon resonance (SPR)-based assays showed that intact A2 subunit directly bound to FX (K
d; 63 nM). The FVIII structure model indicated possible FX-binding site(s) in residues 400–429 in A2. One peptide corresponding to residues 400–409 competitively inhibited both the A2–FX binding and FVIIIa/FIXa-dependent FXa generation. Covalent cross-linking was observed between this peptide and FX following reaction with EDC (1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide) using SDS-PAGE. K408 and S409 were not evident in N-terminal sequence analysis of the cross-linked product, suggesting that two residues participated in cross-link formation. SPR-based assays using recombinant FVIII mutants with one or both residues substituted to alanine demonstrated that K408A and K408A/S409A had approximately fourfold high K
d values of wild-type (WT-)FVIII. FXa cleavages at Arg372 in both mutants were significantly delayed, suggesting a contribution of K408 for FXa cleavage at Arg372. Furthermore, FXa generation assays with these mutants demonstrated that the K
m values were 1.4- to 1.7-fold greater, and overall catalytic efficiency (k
cat/K
m) was 0.49- to 0.89-fold lower than with WT-FVIII, suggesting a significant contribution of K408 for FVIII–FX interaction in tenase assembly. We concluded that the K408 in the A2 domain provided an interactive-site for FX.
Noch immer ein Tabuthema
Authors: Stirban Ovidiu
Published: April 2018

Diabetesspezifische Komplikationen sind in der Regel mit einer deutlichen Einschränkung der Lebensqualität der Betroffenen sowie hohen Kosten assoziiert. Kaum eine dieser Komplikationen hat jedoch eine so ausgeprägte psychologische Komponente wie die sexuelle Dysfunktion. Die Diskrepanz zwischen fehlenden morphologischen Veränderungen und den verstörenden funktionellen Einschränkungen macht die Diagnose schwierig – vor allem, weil es Betroffenen oft schwerfällt, über ihr Leiden zu sprechen. Aus diesem Grund ist eine aktive Diagnose von großer Bedeutung, um eine spezifische Therapie einleiten zu können. Diese ist nicht nur deshalb so wichtig, um die Lebensqualität der Betroffenen zu erhöhen, sondern auch um potenzielle zugrunde liegende, bislang aber unbekannte diabetische Komplikationen oder eine asymptomatische koronare Herzerkrankung aufzudecken.
Correction: Unbehagen: a gallantry with excess
Authors: Zeiher Cindy
Published: April 2018

The original version of the article contained two figures (Figure 1 and Figure 2) which appeared in the incorrect order. The order of the two images has now been changed so that the correct image appears with the caption for Figure 1 and the correct image appears with the caption for Figure 2.
Study on the mechanism of a manganese-based catalyst for catalytic NOX flue gas denitration
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wen Xin , Lei Zhang , Gao Long , Sha Xiangling , Ma Zhenhua , He Huibin , Wang Yusu , Jia Yang , Li Yonghui
Published: April 2018

Manganese-based bimetallic catalysts were prepared with self-made pyrolysis coke as carrier and its denitration performance of low-temperature SCR (selective catalyst reduction) was studied. The effects of different metal species, calcination temperature, calcination time and the metal load quantity on the denitration performance of the catalyst were studied by orthogonal test. The denitration mechanism of the catalyst was analyzed by XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM (scanning electron microscope), BET test and transient test. The experiments show that: ① The denitration efficiency of Mn-based bimetallic catalysts mainly relates to the metal type, the metal load quantity and the catalyst adjuvant type. ② The optimal catalyst preparation conditions are as follows: the load quantity of monometallic MnO2 is 10%, calcined at 300°C for 4h, and then loaded with 8% CeO2, calcined at 350°Cfor 3h. ③ The denitration mechanism of manganese-based bimetallic oxide catalysts is stated as: NH3 is firstly adsorbed by B acid center Mn-OH which nears Mn4+==O to form NH4+, NH4+ was then attacked by the gas phase NO to form N2, H2O and Mn3+-OH. Finally, Mn3+-OH was oxidized by O2 to regenerate Mn4+.
Characterization of a medium-sized washer-gun for an axisymmetric mirror
Authors: Yi Hongshen , Liu Ming , Shi Peiyun , Yang Zhida , Zhu Guanghui , Lu Quanming , Sun Xuan
Published: April 2018

A new medium-sized washer gun is developed for a plasma start-up in a fully axisymmetric mirror. The gun is positioned at the east end of the Keda Mirror with AXisymmetricity facility and operated in the pulsed mode with an arc discharging time of 1.2 ms and a typical arc current of 8.5 kA with 1.5 kV discharge voltage. To optimize the operation, a systematic scan of the neutral pressure, the arc voltage, the bias voltage on a mesh grid 6 cm in front of the gun and an end electrode located on the west end of mirror, and the mirror ratio was performed. The streaming plasma was measured with triple probes in the three mirror cells and a diamagnetic loop in the central cell. Floating potential measurements suggest that the plasma could be divided into streaming and mirror-confined plasmas. The floating potential for the streaming plasma is negative, with an electric field pointing inwards. The mirror-confined plasma has a typical lifetime of 0.5 ms.
Domain matching epitaxy of BaBiO3 on SrTiO3 with structurally modified interface
Authors: Zapf M. , Stübinger M. , Jin L. , Kamp M. , Pfaff F. , Lubk A. , Büchner B. , Sing M. , Claessen R.
Published: April 2018

The perovskite BaBiO3 (BBO) is a versatile oxide parent material which displays superconductivity upon p-doping, while n-doping has been predicted to establish a wide-bandgap topological insulator phase. Here, we report on a mechanism that allows for epitaxial deposition of high-quality crystalline BBO thin films on SrTiO3 substrates despite a significant lattice mismatch of as large as 12%. It is revealed that the growth takes place through domain matching epitaxy, resulting in domains with alternating lateral sizes of 8 and 9 BBO unit cells. In particular, a structurally modified interface layer is identified which serves as a nucleation layer for the BBO films and gradually relieves the strain by decoupling the film lattice from the substrate. The BBO growth mechanism identified here may be prototypical for prospective thin film deposition of other perovskites with large lattice constants.
Probing the CZTS/CdS heterojunction utilizing photoelectrochemistry and x-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Turnbull Matthew J. , Vaccarello Daniel , Wong Jonathan , Yiu Yun Mui , Sham Tsun-Kong , Ding Zhifeng
Published: April 2018

The importance of renewable resources is becoming more and more influential on research due to the depletion of fossil fuels. Cost-effective ways of harvesting solar energy should also be at the forefront of these investigations. Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) solar cells are well within the frame of these goals, and a thorough understanding of how they are made and processed synthetically is crucial. The CZTS/CdS heterojunction was examined using photoelectrochemistry and synchrotron radiation (SR) spectroscopy. These tools provided physical insights into this interface that was formed by the electrophoretic deposition of CZTS nanocrystals and chemical bath deposition (CBD) of CdS for the respective films. It was discovered that CBD induced a change in the local and long range environment of the Zn in the CZTS lattice, which was detrimental to the photoresponse. X-ray absorption near-edge structures and extended X-ray absorption fine structures (EXAFSs) of the junction showed that this change was at an atomic level and was associated with the coordination of oxygen to zinc. This was confirmed through FEFF fitting of the EXAFS and through IR spectroscopy. It was found that this change in both photoresponse and the Zn coordination can be reversed with the use of low temperature annealing. Investigating CZTS through SR techniques provides detailed structural information of minor changes from the zinc perspective.
Noise induced aperiodic rotations of particles trapped by a non-conservative force
Authors: Ortega-Piwonka Ignacio , Angstmann Christopher N. , Henry Bruce I. , Reece Peter J.
Published: April 2018

We describe a mechanism whereby random noise can play a constructive role in the manifestation of a pattern, aperiodic rotations, that would otherwise be damped by internal dynamics. The mechanism is described physically in a theoretical model of overdamped particle motion in two dimensions with symmetric damping and a non-conservative force field driven by noise. Cyclic motion only occurs as a result of stochastic noise in this system. However, the persistence of the cyclic motion is quantified by parameters associated with the non-conservative forcing. Unlike stochastic resonance or coherence resonance, where noise can play a constructive role in amplifying a signal that is otherwise below the threshold for detection, in the mechanism considered here, the signal that is detected does not exist without the noise. Moreover, the system described here is a linear system.
Swimming trajectories of a three-sphere microswimmer near a wall
Authors: Daddi-Moussa-Ider Abdallah , Lisicki Maciej , Hoell Christian , Löwen Hartmut
Published: April 2018

The hydrodynamic flow field generated by self-propelled active particles and swimming microorganisms is strongly altered by the presence of nearby boundaries in a viscous flow. Using a simple model three-linked sphere swimmer, we show that the swimming trajectories near a no-slip wall reveal various scenarios of motion depending on the initial orientation and the distance separating the swimmer from the wall. We find that the swimmer can either be trapped by the wall, completely escape, or perform an oscillatory gliding motion at a constant mean height above the wall. Using a far-field approximation, we find that, at leading order, the wall-induced correction has a source-dipolar or quadrupolar flow structure where the translational and angular velocities of the swimmer decay as inverse third and fourth powers with distance from the wall, respectively. The resulting equations of motion for the trajectories and the relevant order parameters fully characterize the transition between the states and allow for an accurate description of the swimming behavior near a wall. We demonstrate that the transition between the trapping and oscillatory gliding states is first order discontinuous, whereas the transition between the trapping and escaping states is continuous, characterized by non-trivial scaling exponents of the order parameters. In order to model the circular motion of flagellated bacteria near solid interfaces, we further assume that the spheres can undergo rotational motion around the swimming axis. We show that the general three-dimensional motion can be mapped onto a quasi-two-dimensional representational model by an appropriate redefinition of the order parameters governing the transition between the swimming states.
Rotaxane liquid crystals with variable length: The effect of switching efficiency on the isotropic-nematic transition
Authors: He Hao , Sevick Edith M. , Williams David R. M.
Published: April 2018

We examine a solution of non-adaptive two-state rotaxane molecules which can switch from a short state of length L to a long state of length qL, using statistical thermodynamics. This molecular switching is externally driven and can result in an isotropic-nematic phase transition without altering temperature and concentration. Here we concentrate on the limitation imposed by switching inefficiency, i.e., on the case where molecular switching is not quantitative, leading to a solution of rotaxanes in different states. We present switching diagrams that can guide in the design of rotaxanes which affect a macroscopic phase change.
Solvophobic and solvophilic contributions in the water-to-aqueous guanidinium chloride transfer free energy of model peptides
Authors: Tomar Dheeraj S. , Ramesh Niral , Asthagiri D.
Published: April 2018

We study the solvation free energy of two different conformations (helix and extended) of two different peptides (deca-alanine and deca-glycine) in two different solvents (water and aqueous guanidinium chloride, GdmCl). The free energies are obtained using the quasichemical organization of the potential distribution theorem, an approach that naturally provides the repulsive (solvophobic or cavity) and attractive (solvophilic) contributions to solvation. The solvophilic contribution is further parsed into a chemistry contribution arising from solute interaction with the solvent in the first solvation shell and a long-range contribution arising from non-specific interactions between the solute and the solvent beyond the first solvation shell. The cavity contribution is obtained for two different envelopes, ΣSE, which theory helps identify as the solvent excluded volume, and ΣG, a larger envelope beyond which solute-solvent interactions are Gaussian. The ΣSE envelope is independent of the solvent, as expected on the basis of the insensitivity to the solvent type of the distance of closest approach between protein heavy atoms and solvent heavy atoms, but contrary to the intuition based on treating solvent constituents as spheres of some effective radii. For both envelopes, the cavity contribution in water is proportional to the surface area of the envelope. The same does not hold for GdmCl(aq), revealing the limitation of using molecular area to assess solvation energetics. The ΣG-cavity contribution predicts that GdmCl(aq) should favor the more compact state, contrary to the role of GdmCl in unfolding proteins. The chemistry contribution attenuates this effect, but still the net local (chemistry plus ΣG-packing) contribution is inadequate in capturing the role of GdmCl. With the inclusion of the long-range contribution, which is dominated by van der Waals interaction, aqueous GdmCl favors the extended conformation over the compact conformation. Our finding emphasizes the importance of weak, but attractive, long-range dispersion interactions in protein solution thermodynamics.
Current density tensors
Authors: Lazzeretti Paolo
Published: April 2018

It is shown that nonsymmetric second-rank current density tensors, related to the current densities induced by magnetic fields and nuclear magnetic dipole moments, are fundamental properties of a molecule. Together with magnetizability, nuclear magnetic shielding, and nuclear spin-spin coupling, they completely characterize its response to magnetic perturbations. Gauge invariance, resolution into isotropic, deviatoric, and antisymmetric parts, and contributions of current density tensors to magnetic properties are discussed. The components of the second-rank tensor properties are rationalized via relationships explicitly connecting them to the direction of the induced current density vectors and to the components of the current density tensors. The contribution of the deviatoric part to the average value of magnetizability, nuclear shielding, and nuclear spin-spin coupling, uniquely determined by the antisymmetric part of current density tensors, vanishes identically. The physical meaning of isotropic and anisotropic invariants of current density tensors has been investigated, and the connection between anisotropy magnitude and electron delocalization has been discussed.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Optical Properties of Near-Infrared Reflecting Composite Inorganic Pigments Composed of TiO2/CuO Core–Shell Particles
Authors: Yao Bolong , Geng Siyao , Wang Jie , Wang Likui
Published: April 2018

Pigments with dark appearance and high solar energy reflectance are of great application value. In the present work, dark grey composite pigments with a TiO2/CuO core–shell structure were prepared through calcination of precursors obtained from the precipitation of Cu(OH)2 on TiO2 particles. The composition, structure, and optical properties of the synthesised powders were characterised by colourimetry, near-infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The pigments are composed of rutile TiO2 and tenorite CuO, and the powder colour changes from white to dark grey as the Cu content increases. With a molar ratio of CuO to TiO2 of 0.6, the pigment presents optimal colour (a* = 1.66, b* = −2.19, L* = 52.37) and optical performance. The near-infrared reflectance, the solar reflectance in the near-infrared region, and the total solar reflectance reach 87.2, 70.6, and 37.2 %, respectively. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the composite pigments exhibit a deeper colour and higher reflectivity than conventional dark-blended powders. These cool dark pigments could be applied in the coatings for buildings (roofs and walls) to improve building comfortability and reduce cooling energy consumption.
Enhancing general practice referrals for women of refugee background to maternity care
Authors: Vanpraag Dannielle , Dawson Wendy , Bell Bianca , Riggs Elisha , Szwarc Jo , Brown Stephanie , Furler John , Casey Sue , Teale Glyn , Yelland Jane
Published: April 2018

This paper presents the findings from a quality improvement project implemented by a maternity hospital located in a region of high refugee settlement. The project was designed to improve the completeness of general practice referral information to enable triage to maternity care that would best meet the needs of women of refugee background. Referral information included four data items – country of birth, year of arrival in Australia, language spoken and interpreter required – used in combination to provide a proxy measure of refugee background. A communication strategy and professional development activity engaged general practitioners (GPs) in the rationale for collecting the four data items on a new referral form. Audits of referrals to the maternity hospital before, and at two time points following the quality improvement activity, indicated that very few referrals were completed on the new form. There were modest improvements in the recording of two items – country of birth and interpreter required. Overall, two-thirds of referrals did not contain information on interpreter requirements. Changing practice will require a more cohesive approach involving GPs in the co-design of the form and development of the quality improvement strategy.
CASA-Mot technology: how results are affected by the frame rate and counting chamber
Authors: Bompart Daznia , García-Molina Almudena , Valverde Anthony , Caldeira Carina , Yániz Jesús , Núñez de Murga Manuel , Soler Carles
Published: April 2018

For over 30 years, CASA-Mot technology has been used for kinematic analysis of sperm motility in different mammalian species, but insufficient attention has been paid to the technical limitations of commercial computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) systems. Counting chamber type and frame rate are two of the most important aspects to be taken into account. Counting chambers can be disposable or reusable, with different depths. In human semen analysis, reusable chambers with a depth of 10 µm are the most frequently used, whereas for most farm animal species it is more common to use disposable chambers with a depth of 20 µm . The frame rate was previously limited by the hardware, although changes in the number of images collected could lead to significant variations in some kinematic parameters, mainly in curvilinear velocity (VCL). A frame rate of 60 frames s−1 is widely considered to be the minimum necessary for satisfactory results. However, the frame rate is species specific and must be defined in each experimental condition. In conclusion, we show that the optimal combination of frame rate and counting chamber type and depth should be defined for each species and experimental condition in order to obtain reliable results.
Contribution of Smoking to Tuberculosis Incidence and Mortality in High-Tuberculosis-Burden Countries
Authors: Amere Genet A , Nayak Pratibha , Salindri Argita D , Narayan K M V , Magee Matthew J
Published: April 2018

Globally, 10 million incident cases of tuberculosis (TB) are reported annually, and 95% of TB cases and 80% of tobacco users reside in low- and middle-income countries. Smoking approximately doubles the risk of TB disease and TB mortality. We estimated the proportion of annual incident TB cases and TB mortality attributable to tobacco smoking in 32 high-TB-burden countries. We obtained country-specific estimates of TB incidence, TB mortality, and smoking prevalence from the World Health Organization Global TB Report (2017), tobacco surveillance reports (2015), and the Tobacco Atlas. Risk ratios for the effect of smoking on TB incidence and TB mortality were obtained from published meta-analyses. An estimated 17.6% (95% confidence interval (CI): 8.4, 21.4) of TB cases and 15.2% (95% CI: 1.8, 31.9) of TB mortality were attributable to smoking. Among high-TB-burden countries, Russia had the highest proportion of smoking-attributable TB disease (31.6%, 95% CI: 15.9, 37.6) and deaths (28.1%, 95% CI: 3.8, 51.4). Men had a greater proportion of TB cases attributable to smoking (30.3%, 95% CI: 14.7, 36.6) than did women (4.3, 95% CI: 1.7, 5.7). Our findings highlight the need for tobacco control in high-TB-burden countries to combat TB incidence and TB mortality.
Microbial activity during a coastal phytoplankton bloom on the Western Antarctic Peninsula in late summer
Authors: Alcamán-Arias María E , Farías Laura , Verdugo Josefa , Alarcón-Schumacher Tomás , Díez Beatriz
Published: April 2018

Phytoplankton biomass during the austral summer is influenced by freezing and melting cycles as well as oceanographic processes that enable nutrient redistribution in the West Antarctic Peninsula (WAP). Microbial functional capabilities, metagenomic and metatranscriptomic activities as well as inorganic 13C- and 15N-assimilation rates were studied in the surface waters of Chile Bay during two contrasting summer periods in 2014. Concentrations of Chlorophyll a (Chla) varied from 0.3 mg m−3 in February to a maximum of 2.5 mg m−3 in March, together with a decrease in nutrients; however, nutrients were never depleted. The microbial community composition remained similar throughout both sampling periods; however, microbial abundance and activity changed with Chla levels. An increased biomass of Bacillariophyta, Haptophyceae and Cryptophyceae was observed along with night-grazing activity of Dinophyceae and ciliates (Alveolates). During high Chla conditions, HCO3− uptake rates during daytime incubations increased 5-fold (>2516 nmol C L−1 d−1), and increased photosynthetic transcript numbers that were mainly associated with cryptophytes; meanwhile night time NO3− (>706 nmol N L−1 d−1) and NH4+ (41.7 nmol N L−1 d−1) uptake rates were 2- and 3-fold higher, respectively, due to activity from Alpha-/Gammaproteobacteria and Bacteroidetes (Flavobacteriia). Due to a projected acceleration in climate change in the WAP, this information is valuable for predicting the composition and functional changes in Antarctic microbial communities.
Phase retrieval via randomized Kaczmarz: theoretical guarantees
Authors: Tan Yan Shuo , Vershynin Roman
Published: April 2018

We consider the problem of phase retrieval, i.e. that of solving systems of quadratic equations. A simple variant of the randomized Kaczmarz method was recently proposed for phase retrieval, and it was shown numerically to have a computational edge over state-of-the-art Wirtinger flow methods. In this paper, we provide the first theoretical guarantee for the convergence of the randomized Kaczmarz method for phase retrieval. We show that it is sufficient to have as many Gaussian measurements as the dimension, up to a constant factor. Along the way, we introduce a sufficient condition on measurement sets for which the randomized Kaczmarz method is guaranteed to work. We show that Gaussian sampling vectors satisfy this property with high probability; this is proved using a chaining argument coupled with bounds on Vapnik–Chervonenkis (VC) dimension and metric entropy.
The Transitional Justice and Foreign Policy Nexus: The Inefficient Causation of State Ontological Security-Seeking
Authors: Mälksoo Maria
Published: April 2018

How does an approach towards transitional justice produce preconditions for a country's international action, enabling certain policies and practices in the immediate neighborhood and international society at large? This article unpacks ontological security-seeking as a generic social mechanism in international politics, which makes it possible to productively conceptualize the connection between a state's transitional justice and foreign policies. Going beyond the dichotomy of transitional justice compliance and noncompliance by gauging the role of states’ subjective sense of self in driving their behavior, I develop an analytical framework to explain how state ontological security-seeking relates to major transitions and consequent state identity disjuncture, the ensuing politics of truth-and-justice-seeking, and its international resonance in framing and executing particular foreign policies. I offer a typology of the international consequences of states’ transitional justice politics, distinguishing between reflective and mnemonical security-oriented approaches, spawning cooperative and conflictual foreign policy behavior, respectively. The empirical purchase of the purported nexus is illustrated with the example of post-Soviet Russia's limited politics of accountability toward the repressions of its antecedent regime and its increasingly self-assertive and confrontational stance in contemporary international politics.
Case Report: Double Oberlin Nerve Transfer to Restore Elbow Flexion Following C5-C6 Avulsion Injury
Authors: Moses Michael J , Dai Amoz Z , Lowe Dylan T , Chu Alice , Protopsaltis Themistocles S
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

The use of nerve transfers to restore nerve function following traumatic avulsion injuries has been described, though there is still a paucity in the literature documenting technique and long-term outcomes for these procedures. The double Oberlin nerve transfer involves transferring fascicles from the median and ulnar nerves to the musculocutaneous nerve to restore elbow flexion in patients with a C5-C6 avulsion injury. The purpose of this case report is to present our indications and technique for a double Oberlin transfer in addition to exhibiting video footage at follow-up time points documenting the incremental improvement in elbow flexion following the injury.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

The patient is a 25-yr old, left-hand dominant male who presented 5 mo following a motor vehicle accident. He had 0/5 biceps muscle strength on the left with a computed tomography myelogram that demonstrated pseudomeningoceles from C2-C3 to C7-T1 with root avulsions of C5 and C6. He was subsequently indicated for a double Oberlin nerve transfer to restore elbow flexion.

CONCLUSION

In this case report, we present our technique and outcomes for a double Oberlin transfer with restoration of elbow flexion at 1-yr follow-up for a patient with traumatic brachial plexus injury. We believe that the double Oberlin transfer serves as a safe and effective method to restore elbow flexion in this patient population.
Infection by Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’ haplotypes A and B in Solanum lycopersicum ‘Moneymaker’
Authors: Mendoza-Herrera Azucena , Levy Julien , Harrison Kyle , Yao Jianxiu , Ibanez Freddy , Tamborindeguy Cecilia
Published: April 2018

‘Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’ is a plant pathogen associated with diseases affecting several crops of the Solanaceae and Apiaceae families. Two ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’ haplotypes (LsoA and LsoB) infect solanaceous crops in North America and are transmitted by the tomato psyllid Bactericera cockerelli. Although both ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’ haplotypes cause zebra chip in potato, the diseases associated with each haplotype in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) have not been described. ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’-infected tomato plants exhibit symptoms resembling those of permanent yellowing disease (known in Mexico as “permanente del tomate”) and sometimes called psyllid yellows. In this study, the symptoms associated with each ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’ haplotype in tomato were compared, and the bacterial abundance in different nodes of the plants was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Surprisingly, both plant phenotype and bacterium distribution were different between LsoA- and LsoB-infected plants. Plants infected with LsoB died prematurely, whereas those infected with LsoA did not. Across the measured time points, LsoB abundance in infected plants was consistent with previous reports describing a sink to source gradient, while such gradient was only observed in LsoA-infected plants early after infection. This is the first report describing the differences in symptoms in tomato associated with two ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’ haplotypes, LsoA and LsoB.
Sphingosine-1-phosphate Receptor 2 Signaling Promotes Caspase-11–dependent Macrophage Pyroptosis and Worsens Escherichia coli Sepsis Outcome
Authors: Song Fang , Hou Jinchao , Chen Zhecong , Cheng Baoli , Lei Ruyi , Cui Ping , Sun Yaqi , Wang Haihong , Fang Xiangming
Published: April 2018

What We Already Know about This Topic

What This Article Tells Us That Is New

Background

Pyroptosis, a type of proinflammatory programmed cell death, drives cytokine storm. Caspase-11–dependent macrophage pyroptosis contributes to mortality during sepsis. Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2) signaling can amplify interleukin-1β secretion in endotoxin-induced inflammation. Here, we hypothesized that S1PR2 signaling increases caspase-11–dependent macrophage pyroptosis and worsens Gram-negative sepsis outcome.

Methods

A Gram-negative sepsis model was induced through intraperitoneal injection of Escherichia coli. Primary peritoneal macrophages isolated from wild-type, S1pr2-deficient (S1pr2
-/-), or nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein-3–deficient mice were treated with E. coli. Caspase-11 activation, macrophage pyroptosis, and Ras homolog gene family, member A-guanosine triphosphate levels were assessed in those cells. Additionally, monocyte caspase-4 (an analog of caspase-11) expression and its correlation with S1PR2 expression were determined in patients with Gram-negative sepsis (n = 11).

Results

Genetic deficiency of S1PR2 significantly improved survival rate (2/10 [20%] in wild-type vs. 7/10 [70%] in S1pr2
-/-, P = 0.004) and decreased peritoneal macrophage pyroptosis (pyroptosis rate: 35 ± 3% in wild-type vs. 10 ± 3% in S1pr2
-/-, P < 0.001). Decreased caspase-11 activation in S1PR2 deficiency cells contributed to the reduced macrophage pyroptosis. In addition, RhoA inhibitor abrogated the amplified caspase-11 activation in wild-type or S1PR2-overexpressing cells. In patients with Gram-negative sepsis, caspase-4 increased significantly in monocytes compared to nonseptic controls and was positively correlated with S1PR2 (r = 0.636, P = 0.035).

Conclusions

S1PR2 deficiency decreased macrophage pyroptosis and improved survival in E. coli sepsis. These beneficial effects were attributed to the decreased caspase-11 activation of S1PR2-deficient macrophages. S1PR2 and caspase-11 may be promising new targets for treatment of sepsis.
Apelin Reduces Nitric Oxide–Induced Relaxation of Cerebral Arteries by Inhibiting Activation of Large-Conductance, Calcium-Activated K Channels
Authors: Mughal Amreen , Sun Chengwen , O'Rourke Stephen T.
Published: April 2018

Activation of the apelin/APJ receptor signaling system causes endothelium-dependent and nitric oxide (NO)–dependent relaxation in several peripheral arteries. The effects of apelin in cerebral arteries are unknown; however, apelin inhibits voltage-dependent increases in large-conductance, calcium-activated K channel (BKCa) currents in cerebral artery smooth muscle cells. Because NO-induced relaxation of cerebral arteries is mediated, in part, by activation of BKCa channels, the goals of this study were to determine the net effect of apelin in cerebral arteries, as well as test the hypothesis that the actions of apelin in cerebral arteries are secondary to stimulation of APJ receptors. Immunoblot and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses detected APJ receptors in cerebral arteries of male Sprague-Dawley rats, and immunofluorescence studies using confocal microscopy confirmed APJ receptor localization in smooth muscle cells. In myograph studies, apelin itself had no direct vasomotor effect but inhibited relaxations to the NO-donor, diethylamine NONOate, and to the endothelium-dependent vasodilator, bradykinin. These effects of apelin were mimicked by the selective BKCa-channel blocker, iberiotoxin, and suppressed by the APJ receptor antagonist, F13A. Apelin also inhibited relaxations evoked by the BKCa-channel openers, NS1619 and BMS 191011, but had no effect on relaxation to levcromakalim, a selective KATP-channel opener. Apelin had no effect on diethylamine NONOate–induced or bradykinin-induced increases in cyclic guanosine monophosphate levels. Patch clamp recordings demonstrated that apelin and iberiotoxin each suppressed the increase in BKCa currents induced by DEA and NS1619 in freshly isolated cerebral artery smooth muscle cells. The results demonstrate that apelin inhibits NO-induced relaxation of cerebral arteries through a mechanism involving activation of APJ receptors and inhibition of BKCa channels in cerebral arterial smooth muscle cells.
Magnetic work environments: Patient experience outcomes in Magnet versus non-Magnet hospitals
Authors: McCaughey Deirdre , McGhan Gwen E. , Rathert Cheryl , Williams Jessica H. , Hearld Kristine R.
Published: April 2018

Background:

The term Magnet hospital is an official designation ascribed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center for hospitals that meet specific criteria indicating they have a “magnetic work environment” for nurses. The objective of the Magnet designation is to encourage hospitals to design work in such a way as to attract and retain high-quality nurses and thus improve the quality of patient care. Empirical research has demonstrated that hospitals who earn a Magnet designation appear to have nurses who are more satisfied and committed to their work environments. Although research on whether patients are more satisfied with their care in these hospitals is still in its infancy, preliminary studies suggest that patients receiving care at Magnet-designated hospitals report more positive care experiences.

Purpose:

This study used a large secondary survey data set to explore the extent to which inpatient perceptions differed between Magnet and non-Magnet hospitals.

Methodology:

Ordinal logistic and multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to examine whether Magnet hospital status and positive nurse communication are related to overall hospital rating and willingness of patients to recommend the hospital.

Results:

Results indicated that patients treated at a Magnet hospital and patients who rated nurses’ communication highly were significantly more satisfied and more likely to say they would recommend the hospital.

Conclusions:

Evidence from this study suggests that it would be worthwhile for hospital leaders to consider organizational policies and practices consistent with the criteria put forth for Magnet hospital designation.
Use of Intravitreal Bevacizumab for the Treatment of Secondary Glaucoma Caused by Metastatic Iris Tumor
Authors: Aydin Rukiye , Tezel Tongalp H.
Published: April 2018

Purpose:

The purpose of this article was to report the efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab to resolve secondary angle-closure glaucoma caused by biliary tract carcinoma metastasis to the iris.

Materials and Methods:

A 52-year-old white woman who was under systemic chemotherapy for biliary tract carcinoma presented with a metastatic tumor in the left iris. At presentation, her visual acuity was at the 20/50 level. The tumor was occupying the nasal half of the iris, and had already occupied 5.5 clock hours of the angle, resulting in intraocular pressure elevation to 34 mm Hg. Several small clumps of tumor seeds were also observed on the iris and along the angle. Her intraocular pressure remained high despite full medical therapy with dorzolamide, timolol, brimonidine, and oral acetozolamide. Because of the vascularized nature of the tumor, antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment with 3 repeated injections of bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) was applied 1-month apart. Bevacizumab treatment resulted in an abrupt decrease in tumor mass and disappearance of tumoral seeds from the anterior chamber. The patient’s vision improved to 20/20, and intraocular pressure decreased to normal levels.

Conclusions:

Anti-VEGF treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab can restore sight and achieve intraocular pressure control in metastatic iris tumors complicated with secondary glaucoma. Anti-VEGF drugs are viable alternatives for the treatment of secondary angle-closure glaucoma induced by metastatic iris tumors and can prevent enucleation of these eyes.
Environmental Enteropathy, Micronutrient Adequacy, and Length Velocity in Nepalese Children
Authors: Morseth Marianne S. , Henjum Sigrun , Schwinger Catherine , Strand Tor A. , Shrestha Sanjaya K. , Shrestha Binob , Chandyo Ram K. , Ulak Manjeswori , Torheim Liv Elin
Published: April 2018

Objectives:

Environmental enteropathy (EE) is likely associated with growth retardation in children, but the association between EE and length velocity z score (LVZ) has not been investigated. The objective of the study was to assess associations between fecal markers for intestinal inflammation and LVZ and whether these associations were influenced by micronutrient adequacy among 9 to 24 months old children in Bhaktapur, Nepal.

Methods:

Data were divided into 5 time slots (9–12, 12–15, 15–18, 18–21, and 21–24 months). Anthropometric measurement and dietary assessment (by 24 hour recall) were performed monthly. Mean nutrient density adequacy was calculated based on nutrient density adequacy of 10 micronutrients (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron, and zinc). Anti‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and neopterin (NEO) were measured in stool samples collected at the beginning of each time slot. An EE score was calculated based on all 3 fecal markers. Associations between AAT, MPO, NEO and EE score and LVZ were assessed by multiple linear regression analyses and Generalized Estimating Equations models.

Results:

Associations between fecal markers and EE score and LVZ were generally weak. EE score and MPO for 3‐month and MPO for 6‐month growth periods were significantly associated with LVZ from 9 to 24 months. These associations were slightly modified by mean nutrient density adequacy.

Conclusions:

EE score and MPO were significantly associated with LVZ in 9 to 24 months old Nepali children. Further studies to establish the usefulness of AAT, MPO, and NEO in assessing EE and growth retardation are warranted.
Parent Perspectives of Receiving Early Information About Palliative and End-of-Life Care Options From Their Child’s Pediatric Providers
Authors: Hendricks-Ferguson Verna L. , Haase Joan E.
Published: April 2018

Background

Parents of children diagnosed with cancer may experience decision regret about cancer treatment decisions and dissatisfaction with the perceived clarity in information received from their child's providers.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe parental perspectives about receiving an early palliative care and end-of-life (PC/EOL) communication intervention titled “Communication Plan: Early through End of Life Intervention” (COMPLETE) from an interprofessional team of physician and registered nurse providers.

Methods

Ten parents participated in semistructured interviews after receiving the COMPLETE intervention. The COMPLETE intervention included 3 sessions delivered shortly after diagnosis and at the next 2 cancer treatment evaluations. Sessions of COMPLETE focused on early PC/EOL care discussions at diagnosis and after tumor response evaluations with their child's providers.

Results

Results included 2 theme categories: (1) COMPLETE nurtures realistic hope and meaningful dialogue by parents connecting with healthcare providers as a dyad, and (2) benefits of COMPLETE helped parents to make informed decisions. In addition, there were offered suggestions to improve COMPLETE.

Conclusion

The COMPLETE intervention provided a unique mechanism to foster early discussions about PC/EOL options between parents and an interprofessional team during the first 6 months of the child's cancer treatment. Future study is needed using a randomized clinical control-group design to evaluate COMPLETE with a large sample of parents.

Implications for Practice

Findings provide promising evidence of parents' preference and receptivity to receive early information about PC/EOL care options for a child with a brain tumor with a poor prognosis. The COMPLETE intervention provided a mechanism to help encourage parental consideration of realistic hoped-for goals for their child's condition and care.
T2-Weighted Dixon Turbo Spin Echo for Accelerated Simultaneous Grading of Whole-Body Skeletal Muscle Fat Infiltration and Edema in Patients With Neuromuscular Diseases
Authors: Schlaeger Sarah , Klupp Elisabeth , Weidlich Dominik , Cervantes Barbara , Foreman Sarah C. , Deschauer Marcus , Schoser Benedikt , Katemann Christoph , Kooijman Hendrik , Rummeny Ernst J. , Zimmer Claus , Kirschke Jan S. , Karampinos Dimitrios C.
Published: April 2018

Objective

The assessment of fatty infiltration and edema in the musculature of patients with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) typically requires the separate performance of T1-weighted and fat-suppressed T2-weighted sequences. T2-weighted Dixon turbo spin echo (TSE) enables the generation of T2-weighted fat- and water-separated images, which can be used to assess both pathologies simultaneously. The present study examines the diagnostic performance of T2-weighted Dixon TSE compared with the standard sequences in 10 patients with NMDs and 10 healthy subjects.

Methods

Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging was performed including T1-weighted Dixon fast field echo, T2-weighted short-tau inversion recovery, and T2-weighted Dixon TSE. Fatty infiltration and intramuscular edema were rated by 2 radiologists using visual semiquantitative rating scales. To assess intermethod and interrater agreement, weighted Cohen's κ coefficients were calculated.

Results

The ratings of fatty infiltration showed high intermethod and high interrater agreement (T1-weighted Dixon fast field echo vs T2-weighted Dixon TSE fat image). The evaluation of edematous changes showed high intermethod and good interrater agreement (T2-weighted short-tau inversion recovery vs T2-weighted Dixon TSE water image).

Conclusions

T2-weighted Dixon TSE imaging is an alternative for accelerated simultaneous grading of whole-body skeletal muscle fat infiltration and edema in patients with NMDs.