bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy-angle correlation correction algorithm for monochromatic computed tomography based on Thomson scattering X-ray source
Authors: Chi Zhijun , Du Yingchao , Huang Wenhui , Tang Chuanxiang
Published: December 2017

The necessity for compact and relatively low cost x-ray sources with monochromaticity, continuous tunability of x-ray energy, high spatial coherence, straightforward polarization control, and high brightness has led to the rapid development of Thomson scattering x-ray sources. To meet the requirement of in-situ monochromatic computed tomography (CT) for large-scale and/or high-attenuation materials based on this type of x-ray source, there is an increasing demand for effective algorithms to correct the energy-angle correlation. In this paper, we take advantage of the parametrization of the x-ray attenuation coefficient to resolve this problem. The linear attenuation coefficient of a material can be decomposed into a linear combination of the energy-dependent photoelectric and Compton cross-sections in the keV energy regime without K-edge discontinuities, and the line integrals of the decomposition coefficients of the above two parts can be determined by performing two spectrally different measurements. After that, the line integral of the linear attenuation coefficient of an imaging object at a certain interested energy can be derived through the above parametrization formula, and monochromatic CT can be reconstructed at this energy using traditional reconstruction methods, e.g., filtered back projection or algebraic reconstruction technique. Not only can monochromatic CT be realized, but also the distributions of the effective atomic number and electron density of the imaging object can be retrieved at the expense of dual-energy CT scan. Simulation results validate our proposal and will be shown in this paper. Our results will further expand the scope of application for Thomson scattering x-ray sources.
Inherent losses induced absorptive acoustic rainbow trapping with a gradient metasurface
Authors: Liu Tuo , Liang Shanjun , Chen Fei , Zhu Jie
Published: December 2017

Acoustic rainbow trapping represents the phenomenon of strong acoustic dispersion similar to the optical “trapped rainbow,” which allows spatial-spectral modulation and broadband trapping of sound. It can be realized with metamaterials that provide the required strong dispersion absent in natural materials. However, as the group velocity cannot be reduced to exactly zero before the forward mode being coupled to the backward mode, such trapping is temporary and the local sound oscillation ultimately radiates backward. Here, we propose a gradient metasurface, a rigid surface structured with gradient perforation along the wave propagation direction, in which the inherent thermal and viscous losses inside the holes are considered. We show that the gradually diminished group velocity of the structure-induced surface acoustic waves (SSAWs) supported by the metasurface becomes anomalous at the trapping position, induced by the existence of the inherent losses, which implies that the system's absorption reaches its maximum. Together with the progressively increased attenuation of the SSAWs along the gradient direction, reflectionless spatial-spectral modulation and sound enhancement are achieved in simulation. Such phenomenon, which we call as absorptive trapped rainbow, results from the balanced interplay among the local resonance inside individual holes, the mutual coupling of adjacent unit cells, and the inherent losses due to thermal conductivity and viscosity. This study deepens the understanding of the SSAWs propagation at a lossy metasurface and may contribute to the practical design of acoustic devices for high performance sensing and filtering.
Experimental characterization of graphene by electrostatic resonance frequency tuning
Authors: Sajadi Banafsheh , Alijani Farbod , Davidovikj Dejan , Goosen Johannes (Hans) , Steeneken Peter G. , van Keulen Fred
Published: December 2017

In the last decade, graphene membranes have drawn tremendous attention due to their potential application in Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems. In this paper, we show that the frequency response curves of graphene resonators are powerful tools for their dynamic characterization and for extracting their equivalent Young's modulus. For this purpose, vibrations of an electrostatically actuated circular graphene membrane are studied both experimentally and numerically. The experiments reveal the dependency of the linear and nonlinear resonance frequency of the nano-resonator on the driving DC and AC voltages. A numerical model is proposed based on the nonlinear membrane theory, and by fitting the numerically calculated change in resonance frequency due to the DC voltage to those of the experimental observations, the Young's modulus is determined. It is shown that by using the obtained equivalent Young's modulus, the numerical model can accurately describe the nonlinear dynamics of the graphene membrane in other sets of measurements.
Simulating energy cascade of shock wave formation process in a resonator by gas kinetic scheme
Authors: Qu Chengwu , Zhang Xiaoqing , Feng Heying
Published: December 2017

The temporal-spatial evolution of gas oscillation was simulated by gas kinetic scheme (GKS) in a cylindrical resonator, driven by a piston at one end and rigidly closed at the other end. Periodic shock waves propagating back and forth were observed in the resonator under finite amplitude of gas oscillation. The studied results demonstrated that the acoustic pressure is a saw-tooth waveform and the oscillatory velocity is a square waveform at the central position of the resonant tube. Moreover, it was found by harmonic analysis that there was no presence of obvious feature for pressure node in such a typical standing wave resonator, and the distribution of acoustic fields displayed a one-dimensional feature for the acoustic pressure while a quasi-one-dimensional form for oscillatory velocity, which demonstrated the nonlinear effects. The simulation results for axial distribution of acoustic intensity showed a good consistency with the published experimental data in the open literature domain, which provides a verification for the effectiveness of the GKS model proposed. The influence of displacement amplitude of the driving piston on the formation of shock wave was numerically investigated, and the simulated results revealed the cascade process of harmonic wave energy from the fundamental wave to higher harmonics. In addition, this study found that the acoustic intensity at the driving end of the resonant tube would increase linearly with the displacement amplitude of the piston due to nonlinear effects, rather than the exponential variation by linear theory. This research demonstrates that the GKS model is strongly capable of simulating nonlinear acoustic problems.
Anisotropic stress inhibits crystallization in Cu–Zr glass-forming liquids
Authors: Pang H. H. , Bi Q. L. , Huang H. S. , Lü Y. J.
Published: December 2017

Liquids attain a metastable state without crystallizing by cooling rapidly to a given temperature below the melting point. With increasing supercooling, the nucleation rate would show an increase based on the prediction of the classical nucleation theory. It is generally thought that the nucleation rate will reach the maximum upon approaching the glass transition temperature, Tg, for glass-forming liquids. We report that there exists a supercooled region above Tg in which the crystallization has actually been severely suppressed. Our molecular dynamics simulations show that the growth of embryos in the supercooled Cu60Zr40 melt is subjected to a strong anisotropic stress associated with the dynamic heterogeneity. Its long-range effect drives the embryo to grow into a ramified morphology so that the interface energy dominates over the embryo growth, leading to the suppression of nucleation.
Thermoreflectance microscopy measurements of the Joule heating characteristics of high-Tc superconducting terahertz emitters
Authors: Kashiwagi Takanari , Tanaka Taiga , Watanabe Chiharu , Kubo Hiroyuki , Komori Yuki , Yuasa Takumi , Tanabe Yuki , Ota Ryusei , Kuwano Genki , Nakamura Kento , Tsujimoto Manabu , Minami Hidetoshi , Yamamoto Takashi , Klemm Richard A. , Kadowaki Kazuo
Published: December 2017

Joule heating is the central issue in order to develop high-power and high-performance terahertz (THz) emission from mesa devices employing the intrinsic Josephson junctions in a layered high transition-temperature Tc superconductor. Here, we describe a convenient local thermal measurement technique using charge-coupled-device-based thermoreflectance microscopy, with the highest spatial resolution to date. This technique clearly proves that the relative temperature changes of the mesa devices between different bias points on the current-voltage characteristics can be measured very sensitively. In addition, the heating characteristics on the surface of the mesa devices can be detected more directly without any special treatment of the mesa surface such as previous coatings with SiC micro-powders. The results shown here clearly indicate that the contact resistance strongly affects the formation of an inhomogeneous temperature distribution on the mesa structures. Since the temperature and sample dependencies of the Joule heating characteristics can be measured quickly, this simple thermal evaluation technique is a useful tool to check the quality of the electrical contacts, electrical wiring, and sample defects. Thus, this technique could help to reduce the heating problems and to improve the performance of superconducting THz emitter devices.
Mode conversion in cold low-density plasma with a sheared magnetic field
Authors: Dodin I. Y. , Ruiz D. E. , Kubo S.
Published: December 2017

A theory is proposed that describes mutual conversion of two electromagnetic modes in cold low-density plasma, specifically, in the high-frequency limit where the ion response is negligible. In contrast to the classic (Landau–Zener-type) theory of mode conversion, the region of resonant coupling in low-density plasma is not necessarily narrow, so the coupling matrix cannot be approximated with its first-order Taylor expansion; also, the initial conditions are set up differently. For the case of strong magnetic shear, a simple method is identified for preparing a two-mode wave such that it transforms into a single-mode wave upon entering high-density plasma. The theory can be used for reduced modeling of wave-power input in fusion plasmas. In particular, applications are envisioned in stellarator research, where the mutual conversion of two electromagnetic modes near the plasma edge is a known issue.
Structural origin of hardness decrease in irradiated sodium borosilicate glass
Authors: Yuan Wei , Peng Haibo , Sun Mengli , Du Xin , Lv Peng , Zhao Yan , Liu Fengfei , Zhang Bingtao , Zhang Xiaoyang , Chen Liang , Wang Tieshan
Published: December 2017

Mechanical properties such as hardness and modulus of sodium borosilicate (NBS) glasses in irradiation conditions were studied extensively in recent years. With irradiation of heavy ions, a trend that the hardness of NBS glasses decreased and then stabilized with increase of dose has been reported. Variations in network structures were suggested for the decrease of hardness after irradiation. However, details of these variations in a network of glass are not clear yet. In this paper, molecular dynamics was applied to simulate the network variations in a type of NBS glass and the changes in hardness after xenon irradiation. The simulation results indicated that hardness variation decreased with fluence in an exponential law, which was consistent with experimental results. The origin of hardness decrease after irradiation might be attributed to the break of Biv–O links that could be derived from the (1) decrease of average coordinate number of boron, (2) decrease of Si–O–Biv bonds, and (3) increase of non-bridging oxygen.
Plastic dynamics of the Al0.5CoCrCuFeNi high entropy alloy at cryogenic temperatures: Jerky flow, stair-like fluctuation, scaling behavior, and non-chaotic state
Authors: Guo Xiaoxiang , Xie Xie , Ren Jingli , Laktionova Marina , Tabachnikova Elena , Yu Liping , Cheung Wing-Sum , Dahmen Karin A. , Liaw Peter K.
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the plastic behavior of the Al0.5CoCrCuFeNi high-entropy alloy at cryogenic temperatures. The samples are uniaxially compressed at 4.2 K, 7.5 K, and 9 K. A jerky evolution of stress and stair-like fluctuation of strain are observed during plastic deformation. A scaling relationship is detected between the released elastic energy and strain-jump sizes. Furthermore, the dynamical evolution of serrations is characterized by the largest Lyapunov exponent. The largest Lyapunov exponents of the serrations at the three temperatures are all negative, which indicates that the dynamical regime is non-chaotic. This trend reflects an ordered slip process, and this ordered slip process exhibits a more disordered slip process, as the temperature decreases from 9 K to 4.2 K or 7.5 K.
Domain disruption and defect accumulation during unipolar electric fatigue in a BZT-BCT ceramic
Authors: Fan Zhongming , Zhou Chao , Ren Xiaobing , Tan Xiaoli
Published: December 2017

0.5Ba(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O30.5(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3 (BZT-BCT) is a promising lead-free piezoelectric ceramic with excellent piezoelectric properties (e.g., d33 > 600 pC/N). As potential device applications are considered, the electric fatigue resistance of the ceramic must be evaluated. In this Letter, electric-field in situ transmission electron microscopy is employed to study the microstructural evolution in the BZT-BCT polycrystalline ceramic during unipolar cycling. It is shown that the large ferroelectric domains are disrupted and replaced with accumulated defect clusters and fragmented domains after 5 × 104 unipolar cycles. In this fatigued state, the grain becomes nonresponsive to applied voltages.
Determination of current-induced spin-orbit effective magnetic field in GaMnAs ferromagnetic semiconductor
Authors: Lee Sangyeop , Choi Seonghoon , Bac Seul-Ki , Jae Lee Kyung , Chang Jihoon , Choi Suho , Chongthanaphisut Phunvira , Lee Sanghoon , Liu Xinyu , Dobrowolska M. , Furdyna Jacek K.
Published: December 2017

We report a method for accurate determination of the strength of the current-induced spin-orbit (SO) field in ferromagnetic GaMnAs films. The SO-field manifests itself in the form of a hysteresis between planar Hall resistances (PHR) measured with positive and negative currents as an applied magnetic field is rotated in the sample plane at constant field strength. The width of the hysteresis, which is related to the strength of the SO-field, is observed to change significantly for different values of the rotating external field strength. Since the SO field occurring at a given current is an intrinsic property of the crystal, such a field dependence of the hysteresis indicates that the width of the hysteresis measured with a single field strength is insufficient for determining the SO field. However, using a model based on magnetic free energy that includes the effects of magnetic anisotropy and the SO-field as developed in the present paper, we show that the SO field for a given current density can be accurately established by fitting to the experimentally observed dependence of transition angles of PHR measured with different applied field strengths. Using the known dependence of magnetic anisotropy of GaMnAs on temperature, we also show that this method applies reliably as the temperature varies.
Assessment by Monte Carlo computer simulations of the phase behavior of hard spherocylinders confined within cylindrical cavities
Authors: Viveros-Méndez Perla X. , Gil-Villegas Alejandro , Aranda Espinoza Said
Published: December 2017

The phase behavior of hard spherocylinders (HSCs) confined in cylindrical cavities is studied using Monte Carlo simulations in the canonical ensemble. Results are presented for different values of the particles’ aspect ratio l/σ, where l and σ are the length and diameter of the cylinder and hemispherical caps, respectively. Finite cavities with periodic boundary conditions along the principal axis of the cavities have been considered, where the cavity’s principal axis is along the z-direction. We first focus our study in the structure induced by varying the degree of confinement, determining the HSC phase diagram for aspect ratios l/σ = 3, 5, 7, and 9, at a fixed packing fraction η = 0.071. By compressing the cavities along the radial direction, the isotropic phase becomes stable before the nematic phase as the length of the cavities is increased, resulting in a second-order transition. The occurrence of phase transitions has also been determined by varying η for constant values of the cavity’s length L. Systems with low aspect ratios, l/σ = 3, 5, 7, and 9, exhibit first-order transitions with chiral, paranematic, and isotropic phases, whereas for larger HSCs, l/σ = 50, 70, and 100, the transitions are second order with paranematic, nematic, and isotropic phases, in contrast with the behavior of non-confined systems, with first-order transitions for isotropic, nematic, smectic-A, and solid phases.
A growing microcolony can survive and support persistent propagation of virulent phages
Authors: Eriksen Rasmus Skytte , Svenningsen Sine L. , Sneppen Kim , Mitarai Namiko
Published: December 2017

Significance

Bacteria are repeatedly exposed to an excess of phages and carry evidence of this in terms of multiple defense mechanisms encoded in their genome. In addition to molecular mechanisms, bacteria may exploit the defense of spatial refuges. Here we demonstrate how bacteria can limit the impact of a virulent phage attack by growing as a colony which exposes only its surface to phages. We identify a critical size of the initial colony, below which the phages entirely eliminate the colony and above which the colony continues to grow despite the presence of phages. Our study suggests that coexistence of phages and bacteria is strongly influenced by the spatial composition of microcolonies of susceptible bacteria.
Mathematical picture language program
Authors: Jaffe Arthur M. , Liu Zhengwei
Published: December 2017

Significance

We reevaluate ways that one can use pictures, not only to gain mathematical insights, but also to prove mathematical theorems. As an example, we describe ways that the quon language, invented to study quantum information, sheds light on several other areas of mathematics. It results in proofs and algebraic identities of interest in several fields. Motivated by this success, we outline a picture-language program for further research.
Mixed signature of activation and dysfunction allows human decidual CD8
+
T cells to provide both tolerance and immunity
Authors: van der Zwan Anita , Bi Kevin , Norwitz Errol R. , Crespo Ângela C. , Claas Frans H. J. , Strominger Jack L. , Tilburgs Tamara
Published: December 2017

Significance

Successful pregnancy requires establishment of immune tolerance for invading fetal trophoblasts, as well as immunity to a variety of pathogens that cause placental and congenital infections. Decidual CD8
+
T cells are key cells for recognition and response to foreign fetal, placental, and viral antigens at the maternal–fetal interface. Thus, regulation of decidual CD8
+
T cell activation and cytotoxicity is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Here, we demonstrate that decidual CD8
+
T cells have a mixed profile of T cell dysfunction, activation, and effector function, which allows for both immune tolerance and immunity. This is of great relevance for understanding the development of pregnancy complications as well as prevention of congenital infections that occur as result of impaired placental immunity.
Structure of the human monomeric NEET protein MiNT and its role in regulating iron and reactive oxygen species in cancer cells
Authors: Lipper Colin H. , Karmi Ola , Sohn Yang Sung , Darash-Yahana Merav , Lammert Heiko , Song Luhua , Liu Amy , Mittler Ron , Nechushtai Rachel , Onuchic José N. , Jennings Patricia A.
Published: December 2017

Significance

NEET proteins belong to a unique family of iron-sulfur (Fe-S) proteins that regulate iron and reactive oxygen homeostasis and are involved in the progression of cancer, diabetes, neurodegeneration, and aging. Of the three human NEET proteins, the structure and function of the mitochondrial matrix-localized mitochondrial inner NEET protein (MiNT) are unknown. Here, we show that MiNT is a pseudosymmetrical monomeric protein that contains two distinct Fe-S cluster-binding motifs. MiNT transfers its clusters to the human mitochondrial ferredoxins FDX1/adrenodoxin and FDX2 and is required for regulating iron and reactive oxygen species levels in the mitochondria. Our study demonstrates that although MiNT differs in structure and localization from its homodimeric NEET counterparts, it nevertheless cooperates with them in the same important pathway.
Modern diversification of the amino acid repertoire driven by oxygen
Authors: Granold Matthias , Hajieva Parvana , Toşa Monica Ioana , Irimie Florin-Dan , Moosmann Bernd
Published: December 2017

Significance

All life uses the same 20 amino acids, but only 7–13 early amino acids seem to be indispensable to build functional proteins. Thus, what triggered the introduction of the additional amino acids? Employing quantum chemical calculations and biochemical experiments, we find that the additional amino acids have become systematically “softer” (Ralph G. Pearson) over time, more redox-reactive, and more capable of protecting cells from destruction by oxygen free radicals. Hence, it appears that molecular oxygen forced life to incorporate novel amino acids with augmented redox properties into the genetic code. The present study provides a plausible scenario for a more than 80-y-old problem of fundamental biochemistry: Why these 20 amino acids?
Neural induction by the node and placode induction by head mesoderm share an initial state resembling neural plate border and ES cells
Authors: Trevers Katherine E. , Prajapati Ravindra S. , Hintze Mark , Stower Matthew J. , Strobl Anna C. , Tambalo Monica , Ranganathan Ramya , Moncaut Natalia , Khan Mohsin A. F. , Stern Claudio D. , Streit Andrea
Published: December 2017

Significance

It is generally believed that the outcome of many inductive interactions occurring during development is largely dependent on the responding tissue, the source of the signals playing a relatively minor part. Here, we compare induction of the neural plate by the node, and of placodes by the head mesoderm, and show that both inducing tissues elicit a similar initial response but that they later diverge. We characterize the initial common state by a variety of methods and show its similarity to ES cells, suggesting that these inductions may begin with a common “reprogramming” step. This initial state also shares many features in common with the border of the neural plate, suggesting that this region retains features of a “ground state.”
Gender-Specific Medicine's Imminent Coming of Age
Authors: Sánchez-Serrano Ibis
Published: December 2017

Gender-specific medicine is a new discipline. It has made significant progress over the last couple of decades, which has the potential to transform not only medicine but also the pharmaceutical industry and global healthcare. This article explores some of the most important ethical and legal aspects associated with implementing the principles of gender-specific medicine. This will require that the biopharmaceutical industry focuses on biological sex differences that play an important role in human disease and will mandate changes in global healthcare systems as well. Since drug discovery and development is a very complex, expensive, and time-consuming process that involves not only the biopharmaceutical industry but also entrepreneurs, regulatory bodies, federal funding agencies, private investors, advocacy groups, and nongovernmental/philanthropic organizations, this commentary analyzes how gender-specific research can move from the laboratory bench to the patient's bedside. We will also explore the disease areas most suitable for investigation to begin this translational process. We will discuss the ethical considerations involved in the genetic manipulation of human embryos. Finally, we summarize the driving forces for the full incorporation of gender-specific medicine into clinical practice.
Challenges in Using Real-world Clinical Practice Records for Validation of Clinical Trial Data in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Lessons Learned
Authors: Afzali Anita , Ciorba Matthew A , Schwartz David A , Sharaf Mai , Fourment Chris , Ritter Timothy , Wolf Douglas C , Shafran Ira , Randall Charles W , Kane Sunanda V
Published: December 2017

Electronic medical records (EMRs) have gained widespread use in clinical practice and by default serve as a large patient database with potential for use in clinical research. Although there remains significant interest in leveraging EMRs for research purposes, extraction of data has proven to be complex and with insufficient accuracy. We describe the limitations of an EMR in our attempt to conduct a seemingly simple study aimed at validating variables identified in the PRECiSE 3, a 7-year open label safety and efficacy study of certolizumab pegol in Crohn’s disease that identified clinical factors that predicted both short- and long-term efficacy. A multicenter, retrospective cohort study from 8 academic and large community practices was performed, and data were collected from each respective EMR. Significant challenges with reliable capture of key data elements were encountered, and overall a screen fail rate of 91.8% across all sites was seen. We describe these challenges and potential future directions to work together to advance accuracy and implementation of the use of EMRs in inflammatory bowel disease.
Targeting Mucosal Endothelin-A-Receptor Expression by Fluorescence Endoscopy is Feasible to Detect and Characterize Colitis-Associated Cancer in Mice
Authors: Mücke Marcus M , Bettenworth Dominik , Geyer Christiane , Schwegmann Katrin , Poremba Christopher , Schäfers Michael , Domagk Dirk , Höltke Carsten , Lenz Philipp
Published: December 2017

Background

To facilitate onsite decision-making during endoscopy, both accurate detection and in vivo characterization of preneoplasia are prerequisites. However, no endoscopy technique is available that meets both demands satisfactorily. We evaluated endothelin-receptor A (ETAR)-guided fluorescence endoscopy (FE) in vivo and fluorescence reflectance imaging (FRI) ex vivo for detection and characterization of early dysplastic colitis-associated colonic lesions.

Methods

Colorectal cancerogenesis was investigated in the inflammatory driven AOM-DSS model and spontaneous adenoma development in ApcMin mice. A Cy5.5-labeled nonpeptidic ETAR-specific imaging probe was injected intravenously to assess tumor development in vivo by white light endoscopy (WLE) and FE. Ex vivo tumors were evaluated by FRI, histological examination, and western blot analysis. In addition, tissue samples from patients with colitis-associated malignant and nonmalignant mucosal alterations were analyzed. Specificity experiments were performed using an unspecific Cy3.5-glycine tracer.

Results

Overall, 62 adenomas were observed. FE was able to detect and quantify ETAR expression targeting the ETAR-specific photoprobe. A significantly higher fluorescent contrast was detected in colonic adenomas compared to adjacent nonmalignant mucosa by FE (64.3 ± 7.9 vs. 56.6. ± 7.0; P < 0.001). These results were confirmed by FRI examination, immunochemistry, and western blot analysis. Additionally, ETAR expression in samples from human patients with colitis-associated cancer was highly elevated compared to nonmalignant alterations. Specificity experiments indicated a high binding-specificity of the applied ETAR photoprobe (1.4 ± 0.3 vs. 2.5 ± 0.7; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We introduced ETAR guided FE in mice for successful in vivo detection and characterization of colorectal neoplasia on a molecular level.
Prebiotic Supplementation Following Ileocecal Resection in a Murine Model is Associated With a Loss of Microbial Diversity and Increased Inflammation
Authors: Laffin Michael , Perry Troy , Park Heekuk , Hotte Naomi , Fedorak Richard N , Thiesen Aducio , Dicken Bryan , Madsen Karen L
Published: December 2017

Background

Individuals with Crohn’s disease frequently require ileocecal resection (ICR), and inflammation often recurs in the neoterminal ileum following surgery. Fructooligosaccharide (FOS) is a fermentable prebiotic that stimulates the growth of bifidobacteria and may promote anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this study was to determine if supplementation of a postICR diet with FOS in a mouse model would be effective in stimulating the growth of bifidobacteria and reducing systemic and local inflammation.

Methods

ICR was performed in IL10-/- mice (129S1/SvlmJ) with colitis. Following surgery, nonICR control and ICR mice were fed a chow diet ± 10% FOS for 28 days. Serum, colon, and terminal ileum (TI) were analyzed for cytokine expression by MesoScale discovery platform. DNA extracted from stool was analyzed using 16s rRNA sequencing and qPCR. Expression of occludin and ZO1 was assessed using qPCR. Short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations were assessed using gas chromatography.

Results

ICR led to increased systemic inflammation (P < 0.05) and a significant decline in fecal microbial diversity (P < 0.05). Mice on the FOS diet had a greater reduction in microbial diversity and also had worsened inflammation as evidenced by increased serum IL-6 (P < 0.05) and colonic IFNγ and TNFα (P < 0.05). Expression of occludin and ZO1 were significantly reduced in FOS-supplemented mice. There was a correlation between loss of diversity and the bifidogenic effectiveness of FOS (r = -0.61, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

FOS-supplementation of a postICR diet resulted in a decrease in fecal bacterial diversity, reduction in barrier function, and increased gut inflammation.
Payments and Intimate Ties in Transnationally Brokered Marriages
Authors: Kim Julie S
Published: December 2017

How do women make sense of marriages that start with payments and brokers? This study explores the sustenance of connected lives through relational work by analyzing how women from Asia who marry South Korean men in transnationally brokered marriages understand money and marriage. Evidence from 31 in-depth interviews elucidates the different ways in which women manage their social and economic relations in their home country and their destination country, and how the negotiation of those ties impacts marriage decisions and experiences. The case extends our understanding of relational work by uncovering its dynamic nature as women’s changing expectations reconfigure their relations with family, brokers and husbands, and, in turn, reformulate their monetary practices. Examining women’s relational work also reveals micro-processes that underlie macro-level trends in the flow of money, information and people in Asia, lending an understanding of broader transnational processes.
Characterization of the Black Shank Pathogen, Phytophthora nicotianae, Across North Carolina Tobacco Production Areas
Authors: Gallup Courtney A. , McCorkle Kestrel L. , Ivors Kelly L. , Shew David
Published: December 2017

Black shank disease of tobacco, caused by the oomycete Phytophthora nicotianae, is a major threat to production in the United States and tobacco-producing areas worldwide. In a statewide survey of North Carolina, the rapid shift from race 0 to race 1 was documented. Collected pathogen isolates were characterized phenotypically for mating type and mefenoxam sensitivity, and genotypically by comparing sequences from three cytoplasmic and two nuclear regions. Both the A1 and A2 mating types were found throughout the state. When both mating types were recovered from the same field, pairings of isolates yielded viable oospores, indicating for the first time the potential for sexual sporulation by P. nicotianae in natural populations. Because the loss of complete resistance required a renewed use of the fungicide mefenoxam, a subset of the survey isolates was screened for sensitivity to the fungicide. All isolates were sensitive, with a mean effective concentration to inhibit 50% of hyphal growth of 0.4 μg/ml that was similar across mating types and races. Molecular characterization of 226 isolates revealed that the pathogen exists as multiple clonal types within the state. Genetic diversity among the pathogen population and the potential for sexual recombination may help explain the ability of the pathogen to rapidly adapt to host resistance genes.
Phytocercomonas venanatans, a New Species of Cercozoa Associated with Chlorotic Streak of Sugarcane
Authors: Ngo Chuong N. , Braithwaite Kathryn S. , Bass David , Young Anthony J. , Croft Barry J.
Published: December 2017

Chlorotic streak is a global disease of commercial sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids). The disease is transmitted by wet soil, water, as well as in diseased planting material. Although first recognized almost 90 years ago and despite significant research effort, the identity of the causal agent has been elusive. Metagenomic high throughput sequencing (HTS) facilitated the discovery of novel protistan ribosomal and nuclear genes in chlorotic streak-infected sugarcane. These sequences suggest a possible causal agent belonging to the order Cercomonadida (Rhizaria, phylum Cercozoa). An organism with morphological features similar to cercomonads (=Cercomonadida) was isolated into pure axenic culture from internal stalk tissues of infected sugarcane. The isolated organism contained DNA sequences identical to those identified in infected plants by HTS. The DNA sequences and the morphology of the organism did not match any known species. Here we present a new genus and species, Phytocercomonas venanatans, which is associated with chlorotic streak of sugarcane. Amplicon sequencing also supports that P. venanatans is associated with this disease. This is the first reported member from Cercomonadida showing a probable pathogenic association with higher plants.
Screening mammography for average-risk women
Authors: Kaunitz Andrew M. , Pinkerton JoAnn V. , Ghate Sujata V. , Wolf Andrew M.D.
Published: December 2017

This Practice Pearl describes an approach to screening mammography for average-risk women that encourages the use of shared decision-making that addresses benefits (early diagnosis and decreased mortality) and potential harms (false positives and overdiagnosis/overtreatment) in determining screening mammography initiation, frequency, and duration for women at average risk of breast cancer.
GP registrar consultations addressing menopause-related symptoms: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: De Giovanni Jasmine M. , Tapley Amanda , Druce Penny L. , Davey Andrew R. , van Driel Mieke L. , Henderson Kim M. , Catzikiris Nigel F. , Mulquiney Katie J. , Morgan Simon , Spike Neil A. , Kerr Rohan H. , Magin Parker J.
Published: December 2017

Objective:

To investigate the prevalence and associations of general practitioner registrars’ (trainees’) management of women with menopause-related symptoms.

Methods:

A cross-sectional analysis from the Registrar Clinical Encounters in Training (ReCEnT) cohort study. In ReCEnT registrars collected data of 60 consecutive consultations on three occasions during training. The outcome factor was menopause-related problems/diagnoses (compared with other problems/diagnoses). Associations of registrar, patient, practice, and consultation-independent variables were assessed by univariate and multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

In all, 1,333 registrars conducted 189,774 consultations involving 295,017 problems/diagnoses. Of these, there were 1,291 problems/diagnoses (0.44% of all problems/diagnoses) relating to menopause. Significant multivariable independent associations of a problem being menopause-related were registrar female sex (odds ratio [OR] 2.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.30-3.26) and registrars working part-time (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.72-0.98 for full-time work). Consultation-related associations included an increased number of problems addressed in the consultation (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.21-1.37), and menopause-related problems/diagnoses not being new (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.66-0.86). Significant educational associations were increased odds of recourse to in-consultation sources of information or assistance (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.80-2.44) and of generating learning goals (OR 3.15, 95% CI 2.66-3.72).

Conclusions:

Registrars seek more assistance and further knowledge about menopause compared with other problems. Thus, they may find the area particularly challenging and could benefit from further education regarding managing menopause. Our findings may help inform the design of measures aimed at improving the delivery of menopause training for general practice registrars.
Description of Particle Size, Distribution, and Behavior of Talc Preparations Commercially Available Within the United States
Authors: Gilbert Christopher R. , Furman Benjamin R. , Feller-Kopman David J. , Haouzi Philippe
Published: December 2017

Background:

Widespread use of talc pleurodesis remains controversial for many providers concerned by adverse events such as respiratory failure, which are sometimes fatal. Particle talc size has been implicated in these adverse effects, mainly on the basis of animal studies utilizing large amounts of talc or in observational studies performed on different continents with different talc preparations and doses. Our aim was to determine the particle size and distribution of only the commercially available US-talc preparations and whether the fluid content can affect this distribution.

Methods:

Commercially available US talc was evaluated under scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Distribution of talc particle size was obtained in saline and various protein-based solutions.

Results:

Talc particle size by DLS was performed with commercially available Sterile Talc Powder and Sclerosol Intrapleural Aerosol. Sterile Talc Powder demonstrated a median diameter of 26.57 μm with a range of particle sizes from 0.399 μm to 100.237 μm. Sclerosol demonstrated a median diameter of 24.49 μm with a range of particle sizes from 0.224 μm to 100.237 μm. The exposure of talc to a protein rich environment (bovine serum albumin and human pleural fluid) led to the development of measureable, new, larger aggregated particle (>100 μm).

Conclusions:

Currently available US talc seems to have size characteristics similar to previous described “graded” talc preparations. The exposure of talc to a protein rich environment seems to modify the overall distribution of talc particle size when examined by DLS.
Loneliness Among Persons With Severe Mental Illness
Authors: Prince Jonathan D. , Oyo Adashima , Mora Olivia , Wyka Katarzyna , Schonebaum Andrew D.
Published: December 2017

Although studies show that loneliness increases risk of illness and hastens death, it is poorly understood among persons with severe mental illness (SMI). Using data on 150 people with SMI, we used logistic regression to predict (1) loneliness from sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and (2) psychiatric hospitalization from presence of loneliness. We also examined mediating effects. Study participants who were most willing to ask for help were 70% less likely (odds ratio [OR], 0.30; confidence interval [CI], 0.09–0.99; p < 0.05) to be lonely than those who were least willing, and participants with high levels of internalized stigma were 9.25 times as likely (CI, 9.25; OR, 2.29–37.32; p < 0.01) as other participants to be lonely. Participants who were most lonely were 2.69 times (CI, 1.03–7.04, p < 0.05) as likely to be placed in psychiatric hospitals as those who were less lonely. Loneliness mediates the association between internalized stigma and psychiatric hospitalization (OR, 1.30; CI, 1.04–1.73). Findings can be used to help prevent inpatient stay.
A Rare Case of a Vaginal Solitary Fibrous Tumor, Presenting as a Cystic Mass, Showing NAB2ex4-STAT6ex2 Fusion and STAT6 Immunostaining
Authors: Rekhi Bharat , Bapat Prachi , Shetty Omshree
Published: December 2017

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) has been rarely documented in the female genital tract. Until now, only 5 such cases have been reported in the vagina. A 40-yr-old woman was referred to us with a history of antitubercular treatment and intra-abdominal adhesions; for which she previously underwent laparoscopic lysis of adhesions. Subsequently, she developed a vaginal mass, which appeared as a complex cyst on ultrasonogram. Histopathologic examination of the excised mass revealed a cellular spindle cell tumor with collagenous deposition in the stroma. The tumor cells were composed of oval to spindle shaped nuclei and were arranged in a diffuse, as well as in a focally, hemangiopercytomatous pattern. There were no significant mitotic figures or tumor necrosis. By immunohistochemistry, the tumor cells showed patchy positivity for CD34 and diffuse intranuclear positivity for STAT6, along with cytoplasmic positivity for MIC2 and BCL2. Few cells were estrogen receptor positive. MIB1/Ki67 highlighted 2% to 3% tumor nuclei (low). Diagnosis of a SFT was rendered. Subsequently, the tumor was subjected to molecular analysis, by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and sequencing, which revealed presence of NAB2ex4-STAT6ex2 fusion transcript. This case constitutes the first case of a vaginal SFT confirmed by STAT6 immunostaining and NAB2-STAT6 fusion. It exemplifies the role of specific immunohistochemical markers, such as STAT6 in differentiating a SFT from various other spindle cell tumors occurring in this location. Literature review of similar reported cases and treatment implications in such cases are discussed herein.
Use and Associated Spending for Anesthesiologist-Administered Services in Minor Hand Surgery
Authors: Kamnerdnakta Sirichai , Huetteman Helen E. , Chung Kevin C.
Published: December 2017

Background:

Evidence is lacking to support the use of specialized anesthesia providers in minor surgical operations for patients without medical necessity. The authors sought to estimate the extent of potentially discretionary service use (anesthesiologist-administered anesthesia services among low-risk patients).

Methods:

The authors performed a retrospective claims analysis using the Truven MarketScan Database to estimate the prevalence and cost of anesthesiologist-administered anesthesia services provided to patients undergoing minor hand surgery (i.e., carpal tunnel release, trigger finger release, or de Quervain release) from 2010 to 2015. A predictive probability model was created to estimate patient risk status. The authors examined the relationship between patient risk status and anesthesia use using multivariable regression models.

Results:

Of 441,579 eligible procedures, 352,779 (80 percent) involved anesthesiologist-administered anesthesia services. The total proportion of estimated anesthesiologist-administered anesthesia use in low-risk patients who did not need anesthesiologist support declined over the study period (from 69.7 percent in 2010 to 65.8 percent in 2015). Although total payments for these services remained steady between 2010 and 2014, the average payment per procedure increased regardless of procedure type (from $376.8 in 2010 to $427.9 in 2015 for a carpal tunnel release operation). Approximately 83.7 percent of payments ($133 million) to anesthesia providers is credited to services in low-risk patients.

Conclusions:

Anesthesiologist-administered anesthesia services are commonly rendered to low-risk surgical patients. Existing health care reform efforts do not adequately address discretionary services that can be a targeted area for cost saving. It is important to consider the implications of potentially discretionary use of specialized anesthesia providers, particularly with the advancement of bundled payment models.
Preoperative Alveolar Segment Position as a Predictor of Successful Gingivoperiosteoplasty in Patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Esenlik Elcin , Bekisz Jonathan M. , Gibson Travis , Cutting Court B. , Grayson Barry H. , Flores Roberto L.
Published: December 2017

Background:

Gingivoperiosteoplasty can avoid secondary alveolar bone grafting in up to 60 percent of patients with a cleft. However, preoperative predictors of success have not been characterized. This study reports on the preoperative alveolar segment position most favorable for successful gingivoperiosteoplasty.

Methods:

The authors performed a single-institution, retrospective review of patients with a unilateral cleft who underwent nasoalveolar molding. Alveolar segment morphology was directly measured from maxillary dental models created before and after nasoalveolar molding. Statistical analysis was performed to identify parameters associated with the decision to perform gingivoperiosteoplasty and its success, defined as the absence of an eventual need for alveolar bone grafting.

Results:

Fifty patients with a unilateral cleft who received nasoalveolar molding therapy were included in this study (40 underwent gingivoperiosteoplasty and 10 did not). Eighteen alveolar morphology and position characteristics were tested, including cleft gap width, horizontal and vertical positions of the alveolar segments, alveolar stepoff, and degree of alveolar segment apposition. Post–nasoalveolar molding vertical rotation of the greater segment and the percentage of segment alignment in the correct anatomical zone were statistically significant predictors of the decision to perform gingivoperiosteoplasty (86 percent predictive power). Cleft gap, greater/lesser segment overlap, alveolar segment alignment, greater segment horizontal rotation, and alveolar segment width following nasoalveolar molding were significant predictors of gingivoperiosteoplasty success (86.5 percent predictive power).

Conclusions:

Greater segment vertical rotation and proper alveolar segment anatomical alignment are positive predictors of the decision to perform gingivoperiosteoplasty. Post–nasoalveolar molding evidence of proper alignment and direct contact between the alveolar segments were significant predictors of successful gingivoperiosteoplasty.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Risk, III.
The relationship between serum endocan levels and the presence/severity of isolated coronary artery ectasia
Authors: Gök Murat , Kundi Harun , Kiziltunç Emrullah , Topçuoğlu Canan , Örnek Ender
Published: December 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum endocan levels and the presence and severity of isolated coronary artery ectasia (CAE).

Patients and methods

A total of 52 patients with CAE without obstructive coronary artery disease and 33 participants with a normal coronary artery were included in this study. The severity of CAE was graded according to Markis classification. Serum endocan levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method.

Results

In multivariate regression analysis, high sensitivity C-reactive protein and endocan levels were found to be significantly associated with the presence of isolated CAE. However, there was no relationship between serum endocan levels and the severity of CAE according to Markis classification.

Conclusion

Plasma endocan levels may reflect the presence of isolated CAE, suggesting that endocan may be involved in the pathogenesis of isolated CAE.