bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis and optimisation of a microwave-assisted hydrothermal process for the production of value-added chemicals from glycerol
Authors: Remón Javier , Zhu Guangya , Budarin Vitaliy L. , Clark James H.
Published: May 2018

Microwave-assisted hydrothermal process for the catalytic transformation of glycerol into value-added liquid products.
Multifunctional nanozymes: enzyme-like catalytic activity combined with magnetism and surface plasmon resonance
Authors: Wu Jiangjiexing , Li Sirong , Wei Hui
Published: May 2018

Combining the intrinsic enzyme-mimicking properties of nanomaterials with their unique characteristics enables the design of multifunctional nanozymes for new biomedical applications and beyond.
Synthesis, characterization and enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity of novel NiO/HTi2NbO7nanocomposite
Authors: Li Jie , Xu Lei , He Jie , Hu Lifang , Da Liangguo , Wang Bin
Published: May 2018

The decreased electron–hole recombination rate of the NiO/HTi2NbO7nanocomposite plays a crucial role in improving visible-light photocatalytic activity.
Graphite felts modified by vertical two-dimensional WO3 nanowall arrays: high-performance electrode materials for cerium-based redox flow batteries
Authors: Na Zhaolin , Wang Xuxu , Yin Dongming , Wang Limin
Published: May 2018

WO3/GF hybrids assembled from WO3 nanowall arrays anchored on graphite felts represent highly promising electrodes for cerium-based redox flow batteries.
Intercalation of aromatic amine for the 2H–1T′ phase transition of MoS2 by experiments and calculations
Authors: Kwon Ik Seon , Kwak In Hye , Abbas Hafiz Ghulam , Jung Gabin , Lee Yeron , Park Jeunghee , Yoo Seung Jo , Kim Jin-Gyu , Kang Hong Seok
Published: May 2018

As the MoS2 layered nanostructures intercalated with dimethyl-phenylenediamine, they adopt preferentially 1T’ phase and show excellent catalytic activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction.
Thermo-responsive phase-transition polymer grafted magnetic FePt nanoparticles with tunable critical temperature for controlled drug release
Authors: Kang Zhuo , Peng Yushan , Zhou Lixin , Li Zhimin , Wang Tianyu , Zhang Zheng , Liao Qingliang , Gao Jun , Li Yongning , Zhang Yue
Published: May 2018

A tunable temperature stimuli-responsive drug release system based on phase transition polymer grafted magnetic FePt nanoparticles has been realized.
The preparation, microstructure and mechanical properties of a dense MgO–Al2O3–SiO2based glass-ceramic coating on porous BN/Si2N2O ceramics
Authors: Sun Yangshan , Cai Delong , Yang Zhihua , Li Hailiang , Li Quan , Jia Dechang , Zhou Yu
Published: May 2018

A dense MgO–Al2O3–SiO2based glass-ceramic coating was prepared by a doctor blade process on a porous BN/Si2N2O ceramic surface followed by heat treatment at 1050 °C under nitrogen flow.
Co-delivery of doxorubicin and shRNA of Beclin1 by folate receptor targeted pullulan-based multifunctional nanomicelles for combinational cancer therapy
Authors: Chen Lili , Qian Ming , Zhang Liuwei , Xia Jing , Bao Yongming , Wang Jingyun , Guo Lianying , Li Yachen
Published: May 2018

New folate receptor targeted nano-micelles enhanced the anticancer effect of doxorubicin by shBeclin1 with the blockade of the autophagy process.
Reduced graphene oxide as a water, carbon dioxide and oxygen barrier in plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) films
Authors: Nguyen Huynh Ngoc Minh , Boeva Zhanna A. , Smått Jan-Henrik , Pesonen Markus , Lindfors Tom
Published: May 2018

A 10 μm-thick reduced graphene oxide barrier layer efficiently blocks water, carbon dioxide and oxygen diffusion through plasticized PVC.
Highly stable ITO/Zn2TiO4/Pt resistive random access memory and its application in two-bit-per-cell
Authors: Chen Shi-Xiang , Chang Sheng-Po , Hsieh Wei-Kang , Chang Shoou-Jinn , Lin Chih-Chien
Published: May 2018

We discuss the fabrication procedure and device characteristics of ITO/Zn2TiO4/Pt resistive random-access memory (RRAM) at room temperature.
Liquid fuel synthesis in microreactors
Authors: Hafeez Sanaa , Manos George , Al-Salem S. M. , Aristodemou Elsa , Constantinou Achilleas
Published: May 2018

This review paper provides an in-depth review of microreactors for the intensification of the liquid fuel production processes.
A high spatiotemporal study of somatic exocytosis with scanning electrochemical microscopy and nanoITIES electrodes
Authors: Welle Theresa M. , Alanis Kristen , Colombo Michelle L. , Sweedler Jonathan V. , Shen Mei
Published: May 2018

Extra-synaptic exocytosis is an essential component of cellular communication. A knowledge gap exists in the exocytosis of the non-redox active transmitter acetylcholine. Using the nano-interface between two immiscible electrolyte solutions and scanning electrochemical microscopy, a high resolution spatiotemporal study of acetylcholine exocytosis is shown from individual neuronal soma.
A triple synergistic effect from pitaya-like MoNix–MoCx hybrids encapsulated in N-doped C nanospheres for efficient hydrogen evolution
Authors: Chi Jing-Qi , Lin Jia-Hui , Qin Jun-Feng , Dong Bin , Yan Kai-Li , Liu Zi-Zhang , Zhang Xin-Yu , Chai Yong-Ming , Liu Chen-Guang
Published: May 2018

A facile strategy of using organic–inorganic precursor and followed carbonization is adopted to prepare ternary core–shell nanostructures composed of ultrafine hybrids of MoNi alloys and MoCx nanoparticles encapsulated in N-doped carbon nanospheres (MoNix–MoCx@NC).
Engineering the morphology via processing additives in multiple all-polymer solar cells for improved performance
Authors: Yuan Jianyu , Xu Yalong , Shi Guozheng , Ling Xufeng , Ying Lei , Huang Fei , Lee Tack Ho , Woo Han Young , Kim Jin Young , Cao Yong , Ma Wanli
Published: May 2018

In this contribution, we report the working mechanisms of several processing additives for controlling the morphology of four all-polymer systems.
Combinatorial identification of a highly soluble phase-selective organogelator with high gelling capacity for crude oil gelation
Authors: Li Juntong , Huo Yanping , Zeng Huaqiang
Published: May 2018

Combinatorial screening identifies a high capacity phase-selective organogelator with record-high solubility for rapid room-temperature gelation of crude oils.
Low-temperature solid-state growth of three-dimensional bicontinuous nanoporous graphene with tunable porosity for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Lu L. Q. , Schriever N. , De Hosson J. Th. M. , Pei Y. T.
Published: May 2018

In this work we developed a solid-state-growth approach for the synthesis of 3D interconnected bicontinuous nanoporous graphene (NPG) with the aid of nanoporous Ni templates at low temperatures (below 800 °C).
A long-lifetime iridium(iii) complex for lysosome tracking with high specificity and a large Stokes shift
Authors: Liu Jin-Biao , Vellaisamy Kasipandi , Li Guodong , Yang Chao , Wong Suk-Yu , Leung Chung-Hang , Pu Shou-Zhi , Ma Dik-Lung
Published: May 2018

Investigating the role of lysosome dysfunction in cancer requires the development of efficient probes for lysosomes.
Controllable synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoflowers: enhanced imaging guided cancer therapy and comparison of photothermal efficiency with black-TiO2
Authors: Saeed Madiha , Iqbal M. Zubair , Ren Wenzhi , Xia Yuanzhi , Liu Chuang , Khan Waheed S. , Wu Aiguo
Published: May 2018

The therapeutic performance of the Fe3O4 nanoflowers (Fe-NFs) is evaluated and compared with commercially available black TiO2 nanoparticles (b-TiO2)
Exosomes and extracellular vesicles: the path forward
Authors: Stahl Philip D. , Raposo Graça
Published: May 2018

Over the course of the past several decades, the concept that extracellular vesicles, exosomes and microvesicles, operate as cellular “housekeepers” and as agents for communication between and among cells and tissues, has emerged into one of the most promising yet vexing problems facing the biomedical community. Already, extracellular vesicles from biological fluids are being used for diagnostic purposes and hopes abound for their use as therapeutic agents. However, the most basic mechanistic questions surrounding their biogenesis and function in cellular and tissue homeostasis remain largely unexplored. In this issue of Essays in Biochemistry, the rise of a new intercellular communications pathway is considered from many perspectives—cell biology, physiology, and pathophysiology.
Interference mitigation and capacity enhancement using constraint field of view ADR in downlink VLC channel
Authors: Eldeeb Hossien B. , Selmy Hossam A. I. , Elsayed Hany M. , Badr Ragia I.
Published: May 2018

The continued increase in several mobile applications forces to replace existing limited spectrum indoor radio‐frequency wireless connections with high‐speed ones. Visible light communication (VLC) is a promising license free indoor wireless technology that could offer high‐speed connections. However, both co‐channel interference (CCI) from more neighbour transmitters and inter‐symbol interferences (ISI) from multipath reflections limit the performance of VLC downlink channel. In this study, a constraint field of view angular diversity receiver (CFOV‐ADR) is proposed to mitigate these limitations. By optimising the photodetector's (PD) field of view (FOV) angle, the line of sight CCI could be totally eliminated and the ISI could be significantly reduced. The optimal range for FOV angle is calculated in a typical indoor scenario. Furthermore, the zero‐forcing (ZF) algorithm is applied to the conventional ADR (ADR‐ZF) which can significantly eliminate the ISI components. The received optical signal‐to‐interference‐plus‐noise ratio (SINR) is tested at various room positions. The simulation results show that the proposed CFOV‐ADR can achieve higher SINR performance than single receiver, conventional ADR, and ADR‐ZF at all positions and orientations.
Stability of a class of neutral stochastic functional differential equations with Markovian switching
Authors: Song Ruili , Lu Boliang , Zhu Quanxin
Published: May 2018

This study investigates the stability of a class of neutral stochastic functional differential equations with Markovian switching. Some novel stability criteria are first established, including boundedness, p th moment exponential stability and almost sure exponential stability, based on multiple Lyapunov functions, generalised Itô formula and non‐negative semi‐martingale convergence theorem. Concretely, the authors generalise the existing results under the essential neutral term and improve the diffusion operators from being controlled by two auxiliary functions to other multiple auxiliary functions with not only constant coefficients but also time‐varying coefficients. Some numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Sensor redundancy based FDI using an LPV sliding mode observer
Authors: Chen Lejun , Edwards Christopher , Alwi Halim
Published: May 2018

In this study, a linear parameter varying (LPV) sliding mode sensor fault detection and isolation (FDI) scheme is proposed wherein knowledge of the measurement redundancy is utilised to achieve FDI in multiple channels simultaneously. Such a situation is common in some state‐of‐the‐art aircraft fault diagnosis systems where information is generally/mainly measured based on triplex redundancy. The scheme proposed in this study is based on an LPV sliding mode observer and exploits the so‐called equivalent output error injection signal to create estimates of the measurement faults. In the case of sensor measurement redundancy, and where there exists a fault‐free (but unknown) sensor amongst the set of measurements, the fault reconstruction performance of the observer can be improved by isolating and using the output error injection signal associated with the fault‐free redundant sensor. Simulation results using the RECONFIGURE benchmark model demonstrate the effectiveness of the scheme.
Adaptive model predictive control‐based attitude and trajectory tracking of a VTOL aircraft
Authors: Emami Seyyed Ali , Rezaeizadeh Amin
Published: May 2018

A novel adaptive model‐based predictive controller for attitude and trajectory tracking of a vertical take‐off and landing (VTOL) aircraft in the simultaneous presence of model uncertainties and external disturbances is introduced in this study. An important challenge of designing the model‐based controllers is developing an accurate model, especially in the presence of model uncertainties. In this study, first, the nominal model of a ducted‐fan air vehicle, which is a multi‐input multi‐output nonlinear system with non‐minimum phase behaviour, is given as the test case of this research. After that, two modified robust and adaptive model predictive controllers are proposed for tracking a predefined path in the presence of external gusts and model uncertainties. The design is performed by introducing two novel observers to estimate the model uncertainties and external disturbances, simultaneously. Different types of input constraints, as well as the time delay of the system inputs, can be considered effectively in the design steps of the proposed control strategy. The stability of the closed‐loop system is proved under a few realistic assumptions. The simulation results demonstrate the great capability of the proposed method for attitude and trajectory tracking of the VTOL aircraft under model uncertainties and wind turbulence.
Reachable set estimation for switched positive systems with mixed time‐varying delays and bounded disturbances
Authors: Tian Dadong , Liu Shutang , Sun Yuangong , Xia Jianwei
Published: May 2018

In this study, the problem of reachable set estimation of switched positive systems with discrete and distributed delays subject to bounded disturbances is studied. The authors first investigate the reachable set of unswitched positive systems. Then, applying a new approach which is different from the Lyapunov functional method, they give a sufficient condition for the existence of a ball such that all the solutions of the switched positive system converge exponentially within it under certain switching rules. In addition, a precise estimation of the decay rate is also presented. Finally, the effectiveness of the theoretical result is illustrated by a numerical example.
Analysis on the effect of external spurious signals in an H‐bridge inverter
Authors: Subramanian Archana , Govindarajan Uma
Published: May 2018

Power electronic converters are consistently encountering complex non‐linear behaviours predominantly due to the coupling of electromagnetic interferences (EMIs). The emergence of non‐linear phenomena in a DC–AC H‐bridge inverter under the influence of periodic interference signals at multiple locations is investigated. A detailed analysis is performed to determine the bifurcation boundaries under the influence of spurious signals and parametric variations. The analysis will enable the engineers to select the design parameter cautiously to avoid the occurrence of undesirable instabilities. The converter dynamics are investigated with the help of numerical simulations executed in MATLAB/SIMULINK environment and analytically validated using the concept of monodromy matrix based on Filippov's method of differential inclusion. Simulation and theoretical results are validated experimentally.
The effects of magnetic field strength on the properties of wind generated from hot accretion flow
Authors: Bu De-Fu , Mosallanezhad Amin
Published: May 2018

Context. Observations indicate that wind can be generated in hot accretion flow. Wind generated from weakly magnetized accretion flow has been studied. However, the properties of wind generated from strongly magnetized hot accretion flow have not been studied. Aims. In this paper, we study the properties of wind generated from both weakly and strongly magnetized accretion flow. We focus on how the magnetic field strength affects the wind properties.

Methods. We solve steady-state two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic equations of black hole accretion in the presence of a largescale magnetic field. We assume self-similarity in radial direction. The magnetic field is assumed to be evenly symmetric with the equatorial plane.

Results. We find that wind exists in both weakly and strongly magnetized accretion flows. When the magnetic field is weak (magnetic pressure is more than two orders of magnitude smaller than gas pressure), wind is driven by gas pressure gradient and centrifugal forces. When the magnetic field is strong (magnetic pressure is slightly smaller than gas pressure), wind is driven by gas pressure gradient and magnetic pressure gradient forces. The power of wind in the strongly magnetized case is just slightly larger than that in the weakly magnetized case. The power of wind lies in a range PW ~ 10−4–10−3 Ṁinc2, with Ṁin and c being mass inflow rate and speed of light, respectively. The possible role of wind in active galactic nuclei feedback is briefly discussed.
General Awareness about Epilepsy in a Cohort of Female and Male Students: A Statistical Comparison
Authors: Jaseja Harinder , Verma Jai , Mehndiratta Man , Govila Anand , Tiwari Jyoti , Gupta Sandeep , Grover Vijmendra , Kumari Priti , Parashar Gajendra , Bansal Neeraj
Published: May 2018

Background and Objective A survey on general awareness toward epilepsy was conducted on a cohort of female and male medical and paramedical students that represent a model educated section of the society. It is, therefore, imperative that this section of the society acquires correct knowledge about epilepsy.

Materials and Methods The subjects were undergraduate students from medical and paramedical institutes in Gwalior region who were gathered to celebrate the National Epilepsy Day on November 17, 2016. A self-administered questionnaire of 50 questions on general awareness about epilepsy was completed at the very beginning before the celebrations. The results were subjected to various statistical analyses.

Results A total of 251 respondents (149 females and 102 males) in the age group of 17 to 31 years participated in the survey. All the respondents had heard about epilepsy. One-hundred fifty-eight participants were from medical and dental institutes, whereas 93 participants were from paramedical institutes. In general, the female participants exhibited significantly greater general knowledge about epilepsy in comparison to the male respondents.

Conclusion The results indicate a favorable degree of awareness about epilepsy. A definite knowledge gap was observed between the medical and paramedical students. However, the awareness still needs to be enhanced even among students pursuing medical and paramedical courses through various programs apart from their academic curriculum, as a certain degree of misconceptions and superstitious beliefs associated with epilepsy continues to prevail even in this educated section of the society.
Understanding the Presentations and Patterns of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries to Develop the Data Collection Format
Authors: Pal Ranabir , Singh Mithasha , Kumar Kiran , Sharma Vinay , Jahanavi Mundlapudi , Jena Ranjan , Munivenkatappa Ashok , Bhandarkar Prashant , Agrawal Amit
Published: May 2018

Background The intensity of the damage to the nerve fibers is not measured through the severity of the spinal cord injury.

Objective To understand the pattern of neurologic features in traumatic spinal cord injuries.

Methods This was a case series of the total care of patients with consecutive acute spinal cord injury at different levels during the years 2015 to 2017, from extrication and transportation following the accident to death, or the completion of primary definitive rehabilitation. This work examined demographic and clinical characteristics of 220 consecutive cases of acute spinal injuries with or without neurologic symptoms subjected to conservative and surgical interventions. Age, sex, addiction patterns of smoking and alcohol, presenting symptoms, neurologic status, and postoperative outcomes are compared with the preoperative findings.

Results The registry included 220 patients with spinal injury; majority in 41 to 50 years age group (28.6%) and males (77.7%). Nearly one-half had cervical (46.3%) injuries; 84.3% male; comparable proportion of dorsal and lumbar injuries had male dominance. One-fifth of the patients were smokers and alcoholics, all males. Mean hospital stay was 36.7 ± 140.5 days. Majority presented with neck pain (48.9%), radicular pain (56.4%), limb weakness (73.3%), and tingling sensation (47.7%); 14.4% reported tightness in limbs and 18.8% bladder involvement. In postoperative period, symptoms persisted in varied proportions. Significantly of postoperative neck pain was observed more among males (88.5%), yet symptoms that reduced postoperatively were neck pain, limb weakness, and tingling sensation. However, bladder involvement increased significantly.

Conclusion The results showed that greater attention should be paid to older and male population that has more spinal cord injuries while comparable to those of the other studies in neurodeficits and clinical features.
Civilian Occult Orbitocranial Penetrating Injury Presenting with Cerebral Abscess in Elderly Patient
Authors: Mulla Mazhar , Bhende Bhagyashri , Patil Swapnil , Patil Aditya , Diyora Batuk
Published: May 2018

Orbital penetrating injuries are uncommon and occur following accidental entry of objects through orbit. The authors report an interesting case of right frontal abscess resulting from orbitocranial penetrating injury due to accidental penetration of wooden stick into the right eye, which remained undiagnosed. A 70-year-man presented with complaints of headache and vomiting for few days. His computed tomographic (CT) scan of the brain revealed peripheral rim-enhancing cystic lesion in the right frontal lobe with perilesional edema, mass effect, and midline shift. Orbital CT scan revealed hyperdense lesion just lateral to medial orbital wall. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed cystic peripheral rim-enhancing lesion that was homogenous hypointense on T1-weighted images and homogenous hyperintense on T2-weighted images. The patient underwent right frontal craniotomy. Pus was drained out, and abscess wall was excised. Foreign bodies protruding through fractured orbital roof were found and removed. He made good clinical recovery. He has received intravenous antibiotics for 2 weeks followed by 4 weeks of oral antibiotics. He had no visual symptoms. The authors report the case, review the literature, and highlight need for imaging in every case of orbital penetrating injury to prevent the life-threatening cerebral parenchymal complications.
Four Quadrant Osteoplastic Decompressive Craniotomy versus Conventional Decompressive Craniectomy for Traumatic Brain Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vankipuram Siddharth , Sasane Sumeet , Chandra Anil , Ojha Bal , Singh Sunil , Srivastava Chittij , Jaiswal Somil , Bajaj Ankur
Published: May 2018

Objective Four quadrant osteoplastic decompressive craniotomy (FoQOsD) has been described as a novel technique in the management of patients with traumatic brain injury requiring decompressive surgery. There has not been a randomized controlled trial comparing its outcomes with conventional decompressive craniectomy (DECRA) as yet.

Methods A randomized controlled trial of 55 patients was conducted, of whom 29 underwent DECRA and 26 patients underwent FoQOsD. The preoperative baseline demographics, clinical conditions, and radiologic features were similar in both the groups. Clinical outcome was decided by the use of Glasgow coma outcome scale extended (GOS-e) at 3 months. Radiographic outcomes were assessed by measurement of the change in midline shift and brain width expansion (ipsilateral and contra-lateral to hematoma) on the postoperative computed tomographic (CT) scan.

Results No significant differences were identified in baseline demographics, clinical condition, Rotterdam CT score, and radiographic characteristics between both the groups. At 3-month follow-up, the mean GOS-e score was comparable in both the groups (3.23 in DECRA group and 3.35 in FoQOsD group, p = 0.856). Mortality analysis at 3 months revealed that nine patients died in the DECRA group and eight died in FoQOsD group. Postoperative imaging characteristics, including Rotterdam score, also did not differ significantly. The percentage reduction in midline shift and percentage brain width expansion on the postoperative CT scan was similar in both the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion FoQOsD appears to be at least as efficacious as DECRA in providing equivalent clinical outcomes with the added benefit of avoiding a second surgery.
An opto-electro-mechanical system based on evanescently-coupled optical microbottle and electromechanical resonator
Authors: Asano Motoki , Ohta Ryuichi , Yamamoto Takashi , Okamoto Hajime , Yamaguchi Hiroshi
Published: May 2018

Evanescent coupling between a high-Q silica optical microbottle and a GaAs electromechanical resonator is demonstrated. This coupling offers an opto-electro-mechanical system which possesses both cavity-enhanced optical sensitivity and electrical controllability of the mechanical motion. Cooling and heating of the mechanical mode are demonstrated based on optomechanical detection via the radiation pressure and electromechanical feedback via the piezoelectric effect. This evanescent approach allows for individual design of optical, mechanical, and electrical systems, which could lead to highly sensitive and functionalized opto-electro-mechanical systems.
Analysis of red blood cell partitioning at bifurcations in simulated microvascular networks
Authors: Balogh Peter , Bagchi Prosenjit
Published: May 2018

Partitioning of red blood cells (RBCs) at vascular bifurcations has been studied over many decades using in vivo, in vitro, and theoretical models. These studies have shown that RBCs usually do not distribute to the daughter vessels with the same proportion as the blood flow. Such disproportionality occurs, whereby the cell distribution fractions are either higher or lower than the flow fractions and have been referred to as classical partitioning and reverse partitioning, respectively. The current work presents a study of RBC partitioning based on, for the first time, a direct numerical simulation (DNS) of a flowing cell suspension through modeled vascular networks that are comprised of multiple bifurcations and have topological similarity to microvasculature in vivo. The flow of deformable RBCs at physiological hematocrits is considered through the networks, and the 3D dynamics of each individual cell are accurately resolved. The focus is on the detailed analysis of the partitioning, based on the DNS data, as it develops naturally in successive bifurcations, and the underlying mechanisms. We find that while the time-averaged partitioning at a bifurcation manifests in one of two ways, namely, the classical or reverse partitioning, the time-dependent behavior can cycle between these two types. We identify and analyze four different cellular-scale mechanisms underlying the time-dependent partitioning. These mechanisms arise, in general, either due to an asymmetry in the RBC distribution in the feeding vessels caused by the events at an upstream bifurcation or due to a temporary increase in cell concentration near capillary bifurcations. Using the DNS results, we show that a positive skewness in the hematocrit profile in the feeding vessel is associated with the classical partitioning, while a negative skewness is associated with the reverse one. We then present a detailed analysis of the two components of disproportionate partitioning as identified in prior studies, namely, plasma skimming and cell screening. The plasma skimming component is shown to under-predict the disproportionality, leaving the cell screening component to make up for the difference. The crossing of the separation surface by the cells is observed to be a dominant mechanism underlying the cell screening, which is shown to mitigate extreme heterogeneity in RBC distribution across the networks.
Thermally induced amorphous to amorphous transition in hot-compressed silica glass
Authors: Guerette Michael , Ackerson Michael R. , Thomas Jay , Watson E. Bruce , Huang Liping
Published: May 2018

In situ Raman and Brillouin light scattering techniques were used to study thermally induced high-density amorphous (HDA) to low-density amorphous (LDA) transition in silica glass densified in hot compression (up to 8 GPa at 1100 °C). Hot-compressed silica samples are shown to retain structural and mechanical stability through 600 °C or greater, with reduced sensitivity in elastic response to temperature as compared with pristine silica glass. Given sufficient thermal energy to overcome the energy barrier, the compacted structure of the HDA silica reverts back to the LDA state. The onset temperature for the HDA to LDA transition depends on the degree of densification during hot compression, commencing at lower temperatures for samples with higher density, but all finishing within a temperature range of 250–300 °C. Our studies show that the HDA to LDA transition at high temperatures in hot-compressed samples is different from the gradual changes starting from room temperature in cold-compressed silica glass, indicating greater structural homogeneity achieved by hot compression. Furthermore, the structure and properties of hot-compressed silica glass change continuously during the thermally induced HDA to LDA transition, in contrast to the abrupt and first-order-like polyamorphic transitions in amorphous ice. Different HDA to LDA transition mechanisms in amorphous silica and amorphous ice are explained by their different energy landscapes.
Ion irradiation-induced easy-cone anisotropy in double-MgO free layers for perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions
Authors: Teixeira B. M. S. , Timopheev A. A. , Caçoilo N. F. F. , Auffret S. , Sousa R. C. , Dieny B. , Alves E. , Sobolev N. A.
Published: May 2018

We have used the ferromagnetic resonance in the X-band (9.37 GHz) to investigate the effect of 400 keV Ar+ irradiation on the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) and Gilbert damping parameter, α, of double-MgO free layers designed for application in perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions. The samples comprised a MgO/Fe72Co8B20/X(0.2 nm)/Fe72Co8B20/MgO layer stack, where X stands for an ultrathin Ta or W spacer. Samples with two different total FeCoB layer thicknesses, tFCB = 3.0 nm and tFCB = 2.6 nm, were irradiated with ion fluences ranging from 1012 cm−2 to 1016 cm−2. The effective first-order PMA field, BK1, decreased nearly linearly with the logarithm of the fluence for both FeCoB thicknesses and spacer elements. The decrease in BK1, which is likely caused by an ion-induced intermixing at the FeCoB/MgO interfaces, resulted in a reorientation of the magnetization of the free layers with tFCB = 2.6 nm, initially exhibiting a perpendicular easy-axis anisotropy. For intermediate fluences, 1013 cm−2 and 1014 cm−2, easy-cone states with different cone angles could be induced in the free layer with a W spacer. Importantly, no corresponding increase in the Gilbert damping was observed. This study shows that ion irradiation can be used to tune the easy-cone anisotropy in perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions, which is interesting for spintronic applications such as spin-torque magnetic memory devices, oscillators, and sensors.
All-optical nanoscale thermometry with silicon-vacancy centers in diamond
Authors: Nguyen Christian T. , Evans Ruffin E. , Sipahigil Alp , Bhaskar Mihir K. , Sukachev Denis D. , Agafonov Viatcheslav N. , Davydov Valery A. , Kulikova Liudmila F. , Jelezko Fedor , Lukin Mikhail D.
Published: May 2018

We demonstrate an all-optical thermometer based on an ensemble of silicon-vacancy centers (SiVs) in diamond by utilizing the sensitivity of the zero-phonon line wavelength to temperature, Δλ/ΔT=0.0124(2) nm K–1 [6.8(1) GHz K–1]. Using SiVs in bulk diamond, we achieve 70 mK precision at room temperature with a temperature uncertainty σT=360 mK/Hz. Finally, we use SiVs in 200 nm nanodiamonds as local temperature probes with 521 mK/Hz uncertainty and achieve sub-Kelvin precision. These properties deviate by less than 1% between nanodiamonds, enabling calibration-free thermometry for sensing and control of complex nanoscale systems.
Geospatial analyses of local economic structures in the rangeland areas of the Northern Territory, South Australia and Western Australia
Authors: Blackwell Boyd D. , Dollery Brian E. , Fischer Andrew M. , Mcfarlane Jim A.
Published: May 2018

We examine the economic structure of Australian local government areas in the Northern Territory, South Australia and Western Australia using economic base theory and location quotients. Whereas the economic base approach is long established, in this paper we extend the three-staged geospatial visualisation method of Blackwell et al. (2017) to two additional state jurisdictions. Focusing on the economic structure of rangeland local government areas, we find that these vary significantly, implying that no single generic development policy is likely to be effective, but rather these need to be crafted individually. We demonstrate that geospatial visualisations of employment location quotients can identify local economic vulnerability as well as opportunity.
Dynamics of sister chromatids through the cell cycle: Together and apart
Authors: Takahashi Motoko , Hirota Toru
Published: May 2018

When and how sister chromatid resolution occurs after DNA replication is a fundamental question. Stanyte et al. (2018. J. Cell Biol. https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201801157) used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to label and track genomic loci in live cells throughout the cell cycle, shedding light on how replication is linked to mitotic sister chromatid organization.
EB1 traps STIM1 and regulates local store-operated Ca2+ entry
Authors: Wang Qiao-Chu , Wang Xi , Tang Tie-Shan
Published: May 2018

STIM1 activates store-operated Ca2+ entry when Ca2+ in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is depleted. In this issue, Chang et al. (2018. J. Cell Biol. https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201711151) demonstrate that EB1 traps STIM1 at dynamic contacts between the ER and microtubule plus ends, delaying STIM1 translocation to ER–plasma membrane junctions and preventing Ca2+ overload.
Less cholesterol means better tumor killing for cytotoxic T9 cells
Authors: Griesenauer Brad , Paczesny Sophie
Published: May 2018

In this issue, Ma et al. (https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20171576) show that removal of cholesterol from CD8 T cells during type 9 differentiation increases their IL-9 production, persistence in vivo, and cytolytic function against tumors by preventing SUMOylation of liver X receptors.
Risk Factors for Group A Streptococcus Colonization During an Outbreak Among People Experiencing Homelessness in Anchorage, Alaska, 2017
Authors: Adebanjo Tolulope , Mosites Emily , Van Beneden Chris A , Onukwube Jennifer , Blum Matthew , Harper Michael , Rudolph Karen , Frick Anna , Castrodale Louisa , McLaughlin Joseph , Bruce Michael G , Gounder Prabhu
Published: May 2018

We identified risk factors for any emm type group A streptococcal (GAS) colonization while investigating an invasive emm26.3 GAS outbreak among people experiencing homelessness in Alaska. Risk factors included upper extremity skin breakdown, sleeping outdoors, sharing blankets, and infrequent tooth brushing. Our results may help guide control efforts in future outbreaks.
Educator perspectives on factors influencing children’s school-based physical activity
Authors: Domville Matthew S , Watson Paula M , Richardson Dave J , Graves Lee E F
Published: May 2018

Formative research is an important first step in the design and development of children’s school-based physical activity (PA) interventions. Exploration of educator [headteacher and physical education (PE)-co-ordinator] perceptions toward the promotion of school-based PA, including PE delivery has however been limited. This study took a socio-ecological approach to explore the barriers and facilitators of children’s school-based PA from the perspective of school educators. Interviews were conducted with headteachers (n = 4), PE-co-ordinators (n = 4) and a deputy headteacher (n = 1) and data thematically analysed using Nvivo software (version 10). Findings suggested that, at an organizational level headteachers were the predominant driving force in the promotion of PA opportunities, yet institutional barriers including low priority for PA and PE were perceived to negate delivery. At an interpersonal level, strategies to increase the delivery of school-based PA were developed, however poor teacher-coach relationships and significant others reduced PA promotion opportunities. Child PA was further negated through intrapersonal factors, including lack of PE-specific teacher training and varying teacher interest in PA and sport. To increase primary school children’s school-based PA, barriers and facilitators at the organizational, interpersonal and intrapersonal level must be considered and targeted and researchers and schools should work in partnership to develop future interventions.
Unstructured clinical documentation reflecting cognitive and behavioral dysfunction: toward an EHR-based phenotype for cognitive impairment
Authors: Gilmore-Bykovskyi Andrea L , Block Laura M , Walljasper Lily , Hill Nikki , Gleason Carey , Shah Manish N
Published: May 2018

Despite increased risk for negative outcomes, cognitive impairment (CI) is greatly under-detected during hospitalization. While automated EHR-based phenotypes have potential to improve recognition of CI, they are hindered by widespread under-diagnosis of underlying etiologies such as dementia—limiting the utility of more precise structured data elements. This study examined unstructured data on symptoms of CI in the acute-care EHRs of hip and stroke fracture patients with dementia from two hospitals. Clinician reviewers identified and classified unstructured EHR data using standardized criteria. Relevant narrative text was descriptively characterized and evaluated for key terminology. Most patient EHRs (90%) had narrative text reflecting cognitive and/or behavioral dysfunction common in CI that were reliably classified (κ 0.82). The majority of statements reflected vague descriptions of cognitive/behavioral dysfunction as opposed to diagnostic terminology. Findings from this preliminary derivation study suggest that clinicians use specific terminology in unstructured EHR fields to describe common symptoms of CI. This terminology can inform the design of EHR-based phenotypes for CI and merits further investigation in more diverse, robustly characterized samples.
Survival Outcomes After Intracranial Hemorrhage in Liver Disease
Authors: Lagman Carlito , Nagasawa Daniel T , Azzam Daniel , Sheppard John P , Chen Cheng Hao Jacky , Ong Vera , Nguyen Thien , Prashant Giyarpuram N , Niu Tianyi , Tucker Alexander M , Kim Won , Kaldas Fady M , Pouratian Nader , Busuttil Ronald W , Yang Isaac
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Survival outcomes for patients with liver disease who suffer an intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) have not been thoroughly investigated.

OBJECTIVE

To understand survival outcomes for 3 groups: (1) patients with an admission diagnosis of liver disease (end-stage liver disease [ESLD] or non-ESLD) who developed an ICH in the hospital, (2) patients with ESLD who undergo either operative vs nonoperative management, and (3) patients with ESLD on the liver transplant waitlist who developed an ICH in the hospital.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed hospital charts from March 2006 through February 2017 of patients with liver disease and an ICH evaluated by the neurosurgery service at a single academic medical center. The primary outcome was survival.

RESULTS

We included a total of 53 patients in this study. The overall survival for patients with an admission diagnosis of liver disease who developed an ICH (n = 29, 55%) in the hospital was 22%. Of those patients with an admission diagnosis of liver disease, 27 patients also had ESLD. Kaplan–Meier analysis found no significant difference in survival for ESLD patients (n = 33, 62%) according to operative status. There were 11 ESLD patients on the liver transplant waitlist. The overall survival for patients with ESLD on the liver transplant waitlist who suffered an in-hospital ICH (n = 7, 13%) was 14%.

CONCLUSION

ICH in the setting of liver disease carries a grave prognosis. Also, a survival advantage for surgical hematoma evacuation in ESLD patients is not clear.
Apple Disease Control and Bloom-Thinning Effects by Lime Sulfur, Regalia, and JMS Stylet-Oil
Authors: DeLong Candace N. , Yoder Keith S. , Cochran Allen E. , Kilmer Scott W. , Royston William S. , Combs Leon D. , Peck Gregory M.
Published: May 2018

Apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) growers require management practices that will produce high-quality fruit while minimizing the number of chemicals used for adequate disease control and horticultural practices. Certain chemicals applied for bloom thinning also have fungicidal properties and could provide protection against early season diseases in addition to crop reduction. Over 5 years, treatments of lime sulfur (LS), Regalia (an organically approved biofungicide), and JMS Stylet-Oil (JSO) were evaluated for protection against apple scab (Venturia inaequalis [Cooke.] G. Wint.), powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha [Ellis & Everh.] E. S. Salmon), cedar apple rust (Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae Schwein.), and quince rust (Gymnosporangium clavipes [Cooke & Peck] Cooke & Peck in Peck), as well as crop load reduction and fruit finish. Both LS and Regalia reduced apple scab and cedar apple rust in four out of five test years. Treatments of Regalia applied with JSO provided disease protection and crop load reduction similar to LS applied with JSO. We provide evidence that LS and Regalia, applied as bloom thinners, can reduce chemical applications used during bloom by combining two chemical spray functions: one for disease protection and one for crop load management.
Preparing patients for biologic medications for dermatologic and rheumatic diseases
Authors: Smith Benjamin J. , Nuccio Brigitta C. , Graves Katelyn Y. , McMillan Victor M.
Published: May 2018

Psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis are prevalent conditions that often require a team of primary care and specialist healthcare professionals for the most optimum patient outcomes. Primary care providers can facilitate referrals to dermatology and rheumatology specialists by obtaining the needed screening workup for patients who need treatment with immunosuppressive therapies. This article reviews tuberculosis screening, hepatitis screening, and vaccinations to be administered before patients begin biologic medications.
Epidemiological trends in the diagnosis of melanoma in a Southern European population: analysis of a large database from a tertiary referral center
Authors: Tsoutsos Dimosthenis , Papadopoulos Stefanos , Kehagias George , Mara Aristea , Kyriopoulou Eugenia , Karonidis Athanasios , Spiliopoulos Konstantinos , Mpalitsaris Efstathios , Karapiperis George , Panayotou Peter , Papaliodi Eugenia , Choreftaki Theodosia , Papaxoinis George , Benopoulou Olga , Ioannovich John , Gogas Helen
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to present the epidemiological, clinicopathological, and treatment characteristics of patients diagnosed and treated in a tertiary referral center and to analyze independent factors associated with these characteristics. In this cohort study, epidemiological, clinicopathological, and treatment characteristics of 1461 consecutive melanoma patients diagnosed and treated in a tertiary referral center in 1987–2015 were prospectively collected in a registry. All patients underwent resection of their melanoma lesion. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine independent correlations between characteristics. Internal validation of these correlations was performed by the bootstrap method. The median age of the patients was 53 years. Female sex had a slight predominance, whereas the majority were of Southern European origin. Superficial spreading melanoma was associated with younger age (P<0.001), whereas the nodular melanoma histological subtype was associated independently with indoor occupation (P=0.021) and diagnosis in the years 2004–2015 (P=0.002). Melanomas with Breslow thickness above 1.0 mm were associated with skin type III–IV (P=0.021) and diagnosis in the years 1987–2003 (P=0.046). In addition, histological ulceration was associated with older age (P=0.004) and diagnosis in the years 1987–2003 (P<0.001), whereas histological regression was associated independently with older age (P=0.001). This study presented independent associations between epidemiological, histopathological, and treatment characteristics, which might help to better understand melanoma disease and treatment practices in Southern Europe.
Endometrial cancer in the elderly: does age influence surgical treatments, outcomes, and prognosis?
Authors: Koual Meriem , Ngo Charlotte , Girault Aude , Lécuru Fabrice , Bats Anne-Sophie
Published: May 2018

Objective:

To compare clinicopathological characteristics, surgical outcomes, and survival rates for nonelderly (<75 years old) and elderly (≥75 years old) women with endometrial cancer (EC).

Methods:

This retrospective study included consecutive patients who underwent surgery for EC at the gynecologic-oncologic surgery department of Hôpital Européen Georges-Pompidou (Paris, France) from January, 2002 to December, 2015. Independent-group t tests and chi-square tests were used to compare elderly and nonelderly women. Survival rates were compared using log-rank (Mantel-Cox) tests.

Results:

In the nonelderly and elderly groups, the mean age at EC diagnosis was 63 (range 33-74) and 81 (range 75-95) years, respectively. Compared with nonelderly patients, elderly patients (n = 104) presented with more advanced disease and more aggressive histological findings. However, surgical approaches did not differ between the two groups, and 76% of all patients underwent minimally invasive surgery. Pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed in 65% and 44% of nonelderly and elderly patients, respectively (P = 0.01), whereas para-aortic lymphadenectomy was performed in 26% and 9% of nonelderly and elderly patients, respectively (P < 0.0001). The incidence of perioperative complications was almost the same in the elderly and nonelderly groups. The 5-year disease-free survival rate was higher in the nonelderly group (P = 0.023), and the 5-year cancer-specific mortality rate was higher in the elderly group (P = 0.042).

Conclusions:

Although elderly patients present with cancers that are more aggressive, the management of EC in this population is not optimal. Further clinical studies need to be conducted for elderly women with EC, and specific treatment guidelines should be developed to improve their prognosis.
A New Approach to Nipple-sparing Mastectomy and Reconstruction in the High Risk Ptotic Patient
Authors: Schwartz Jean-Claude
Published: May 2018

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) and reconstruction is challenging in ptotic patients with additional risk factors. Here, these problems are addressed with a staged strategy that extends NSM and reconstruction to patients with grade 3 ptosis and additional risk factors of diabetes, obesity, and macromastia. Three stages are used to perform a mastectomy, reposition the nipple, and reduce the skin envelope using the Wise pattern. This is followed by definitive implant placement in a final fourth stage. All patients successfully completed their reconstructions without a single instance of implant loss. Using a staged approach, NSM and reconstruction in high-risk ptotic patients is feasible. This is facilitated by using multiple surgical delays and insuring a well-healed skin envelope and optimal nipple position before any prosthetic device is placed.