bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mn4+‐related photoemission enhancement via energy transfer in La2MgGeO6:Dy3+, Mn4+ phosphor for plant growth light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Chen Wei , Shen Linli , Shen Chenyang , Zhang Zelong , Liang Xiaojuan , Xiang Weidong
Published: July 2018

A double perovskite‐type substrate of La2MgGeO6 (LMGO) was successfully synthesized via a high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method and was codoped with Mn4+ and Dy3+ to form a new deep‐red phosphor (LMGO:Mn4+,Dy3+) for artificial plant growth light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). This extraordinary phosphor can exhibit strong far‐red emission with a maximum peak at 708 nm between 650 and 750 nm, which can be ascribed to the 2Eg → 2A2 g spin‐forbidden transition of Mn4+. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) clarified that the La3+ sites in the host were partly replaced by Dy3+ ions. Moreover, we discovered energy transfers from Dy3+ to Mn4+ by directly observing the significant overlap of the excitation spectrum of Mn4+ and the emission spectrum of Dy3+ as well as the systematic relative decline and growth of the emission bands of Dy3+ and Mn4+, respectively. With the increase in the activator (Mn4+) concentration, the relationship between the luminescence decay time and the energy transfer efficiency of the sensitizer (Dy3+) was studied in detail. Finally, an LED device was fabricated using a 460 nm blue chip, and the as‐obtained far‐red emitting LMGO:Mn4+,Dy3+ phosphors for Wedelia chinensis cultivation. As expected, the as‐fabricated plant growth LED‐treated Wedelia chinensis cultured in the artificial climate box with overhead LEDs demonstrated that after 28 days of irradiation, the average plant growth rate and the total chlorophyll content were better than those of specimens cultured using the commercial R‐B LED lamps, indicating that the as‐prepared phosphor could have a potential application in the agricultural industry.
α‐Alumina and spinel react into single‐phase high‐alumina spinel in <3 seconds during flash sintering
Authors: Kok David , Yadav Devinder , Sortino Emanuele , McCormack Scott J. , Tseng Kuo‐Pin , Kriven Waltraud M. , Raj Rishi , Mecartney Martha L.
Published: July 2018

In situ X‐ray diffraction measurements at the Advanced Photon Source show that α‐Al2O3 and MgAl2O4 react nearly instantaneously and completely, and nearly completely to form single‐phase high‐alumina spinel during voltage‐to‐current type of flash sintering experiments. The initial sample was constituted from powders of α‐Al2O3, MgAl2O4 spinel, and cubic 8 mol% Y2O3‐stabilized ZrO2 (8YSZ) mixed in equal volume fractions, the spinel to alumina molar ratio being 1:1.5. Specimen temperature was measured by thermal expansion of the platinum standard. These measurements correlated well with a black‐body radiation model, using appropriate values for the emissivity of the constituents. Temperatures of 1600‐1736°C were reached during the flash, which promoted the formation of alumina‐rich spinel. In a second set of experiments, the flash was induced in a current‐rate method where the current flowing through the specimen is controlled and increased at a constant rate. In these experiments, we observed the formation of two different compositions of spinel, MgO•3Al2O3 and MgO•1.5Al2O3, which evolved into a single composition of MgO•2.5Al2O3 as the current continued to increase. In summary, flash sintering is an expedient way to create single‐phase, alumina‐rich spinel.
Dynamin‐related protein 1‐mediated mitochondrial fission contributes to IR‐783‐induced apoptosis in human breast cancer cells
Authors: Tang Qin , Liu Wuyi , Zhang Qian , Huang Jingbin , Hu Changpeng , Liu Yali , Wang Qing , Zhou Min , Lai Wenjing , Sheng Fangfang , Li Guobing , Zhang Rong
Published: July 2018

IR‐783 is a kind of heptamethine cyanine dye that exhibits imaging, cancer targeting and anticancer properties. A previous study reported that its imaging and targeting properties were related to mitochondria. However, the molecular mechanism behind the anticancer activity of IR‐783 has not been well demonstrated. In this study, we showed that IR‐783 inhibits cell viability and induces mitochondrial apoptosis in human breast cancer cells. Exposure of MDA‐MB‐231 cells to IR‐783 resulted in the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depletion, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening and cytochrome c (Cyto C) release. Furthermore, we found that IR‐783 induced dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) translocation from the cytosol to the mitochondria, increased the expression of mitochondrial fission proteins mitochondrial fission factor (MFF) and fission‐1 (Fis1), and decreased the expression of mitochondrial fusion proteins mitofusin1 (Mfn1) and optic atrophy 1 (OPA1). Moreover, knockdown of Drp1 markedly blocked IR‐783‐mediated mitochondrial fission, loss of MMP, ATP depletion, mPTP opening and apoptosis. Our in vivo study confirmed that IR‐783 markedly inhibited tumour growth and induced apoptosis in an MDA‐MB‐231 xenograft model in association with the mitochondrial translocation of Drp1. Taken together, these findings suggest that IR‐783 induces apoptosis in human breast cancer cells by increasing Drp1‐mediated mitochondrial fission. Our study uncovered the molecular mechanism of the anti‐breast cancer effects of IR‐783 and provided novel perspectives for the application of IR‐783 in the treatment of breast cancer.
The oncogenic potentials and diagnostic significance of long non‐coding RNA LINC00310 in breast cancer
Authors: Li Juan , Peng Wanxin , Du Lutao , Yang Qifeng , Wang Chuanxin , Mo Yin‐Yuan
Published: July 2018

Recent studies have revealed that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in different physiological processes and human diseases. However, to date, the function and overall clinical significance of the vast majority of lncRNAs in breast cancer remain largely unexplored. Here, we focused on LINC00310 by interrogating the breast invasive carcinoma data set of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The results showed that LINC00310 was increased as breast cancer progressed, and the deregulation of LINC00310 was significantly associated with patients’ survival. Experiments with knockout (KO) approach by CRISPR/Cas9 system and the subsequent rescue experiments revealed that LINC00310 promoted cell proliferation by regulating c‐Myc expression in vitro. Nude mouse xenograft assay demonstrated that LINC00310 KO significantly suppressed tumour growth in vivo. Furthermore, we found that serum LINC00310 expression was significantly up‐regulated in patients with breast cancer, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that LINC00310 had a powerful capability of distinguishing patients with breast cancer from healthy individuals (the area under curve 0.828). Taken together, these results provide a more intuitive approach to explore the clinical relevance and functional roles of lncRNAs. As a result, lncRNAs, such as LINC00310, may be used in clinical applications as circulating markers for breast cancer.
Dienogest therapy during the early stages of recurrence of endometrioma might be an alternative therapeutic option to avoid repeat surgeries
Authors: Koshiba Akemi , Mori Taisuke , Okimura Hiroyuki , Akiyama Kanoko , Kataoka Hisashi , Takaoka Osamu , Ito Fumitake , Matsushima Hiroshi , Kusuki Izumi , Kitawaki Jo
Published: July 2018

Aim

We aimed to evaluate whether hormonal therapy immediately after postsurgical recurrence of ovarian endometrioma controls disease progression and can be an alternative therapeutic option to avoid multiple repeat surgeries.

Methods

We enrolled 146 patients treated for endometrioma at the University Hospital of Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine between 2009 and 2015. After laparoscopic cystectomy using the stripping technique, opening of cul‐de‐sac obliterations and complete resection of the deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions, the patients either received no treatment (n = 83), oral contraceptives (OC; n = 32) or dienogest (DNG; n = 27), depending on their medical history. Four patients were excluded because they changed their regimens during the follow‐up period. All patients were followed up every 3 months. Patients who developed recurrence of endometrioma immediately received DNG, OC or gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist.

Results

Overall, 16 patients developed a recurrence of the endometrioma (12 in the nontreatment group, three in the OC group and one in the DNG group). The 11 patients with recurrence were treated with DNG immediately after the diagnosis of recurrent endometrioma. Among them, seven patients continued treatment with DNG (2 mg) for 24 months. After 24 months of treatment with DNG, complete resolution of recurrent endometrioma was achieved in four (57.1%) of seven patients. There was no improvement in the three patients who received OC and one patient who underwent secondary surgery.

Conclusion

DNG therapy early after recurrence of postsurgical endometrioma appears to be viable for reducing the risk of repeated surgery.
Relationship Between Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Weight Status, and Academic Performance: Longitudinal Evidence From 1 School District
Authors: Aske Denise Burke , Chomitz Virginia Rall , Liu Xiaodong , Arsenault Lisa , Bhalotra Sarita , Acevedo‐Garcia Dolores
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVES

We examined the longitudinal relationship between cardiovascular fitness (CRF) and academic performance (AP) among students in a diverse public school district. Furthermore, we determined whether the relationship between CRF and AP varied by student sociodemographic characteristics.

METHODS

This study used data from 2005‐2006 to 2008‐2009. AP was assessed by Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) math (N = 1224) and English Language Arts (ELA) (N = 1248) z‐scores. CRF was assessed by an age‐ and sex‐adjusted 20‐yard shuttle run (pass/fail). Multilevel growth models were used to estimate the relationship between MCAS z‐scores and changes in grade, CRF, and weight status, controlling for student sociodemographic characteristics.

RESULTS

Students who passed the fitness test performed better on MCAS tests (ELA: .159, p < .001; Math: 0.346, p < .001) at each study wave relative to those who did not pass. The relationship between AP and fitness was attenuated for low socioeconomic status(ELA: −.111, p < .05) and minority (Math: black −0.249, p < .01; Latino −0.216, p < .01) students.

CONCLUSIONS

These results add to the literature highlighting the role of CRF as an important predictor of performance on standardized tests. More research is needed to understand the disparities experienced by low‐income and minority students.
School Professionals' Knowledge and Beliefs About Youth With Chronic Illness
Authors: Berger Carolyn , Valenzuela Jessica , Tsikis Joanna , Fletcher Cynthia
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Existing research demonstrates that youth with chronic illness often experience challenges including poor academic performance, attendance, and social success. However, past research demonstrates a lack of support for teachers to best educate students with chronic illness. In this study, we aim to describe the needs of local educators when working with students with chronic illness.

METHODS

A questionnaire was completed by 383 middle or high school professionals. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. ANOVA was used to examine differences between school professional groups and chronic illness types.

RESULTS

Participants tended to disagree that students with chronic illness faced challenges in school and agreed that they had enough support to meet students' needs. They tended to agree that more collaboration between the health care team, schools, and families was needed. Participants reported feeling least prepared in working with students who had cystic fibrosis, epilepsy, or sickle cell disease. School nurses were more likely to recognize the challenges, supports, and collaboration needed.

CONCLUSIONS

More training and support is needed for school professionals in their work with students with chronic illness. Assessments may be useful at a local level to help schools develop better policies and plans for educating youth with chronic illness.
School‐Level Socioeconomic Status Influences Adolescents' Health‐Related Lifestyle Behaviors and Intentions
Authors: Shrewsbury Vanessa A. , Foley Bridget C. , Flood Victoria M. , Bonnefin Amy , Hardy Louise L. , Venchiarutti Rebecca L. , Byth Karen , Shah Smita
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

School‐level socioeconomic status (SES) influences on adolescents' lifestyle behaviors is understudied. We examined how school‐level SES and sex influence adolescents' health‐related lifestyle behaviors and intentions.

METHODS

Grade 8 students aged 13‐14 years completed an online questionnaire regarding their sociodemographic characteristics, dietary behaviors, physical activity participation and recreational screen‐time, and intentions regarding these behaviors. School‐level SES, based on an Index of Community Socio‐Educational Advantage (ICSEA), was categorized as low or high. Generalized estimating equations estimated individual‐level summary statistics, adjusted for clustering.

RESULTS

Students (N = 2538; response rate = 79%) from 23 high schools (low ICSEA = 16) participated. Compared with low ICSEA students, high ICSEA students were more likely to report eating breakfast daily (OR 1.9 [95% CI 1.5, 2.4]), not drinking sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs) daily (2.9 [1.9, 4.3]), and were more likely to have intentions to eat breakfast (1.8 [1.3, 2.3]) and ≥ 5 vegetable serves (1.2 [1.0, 1.5]) daily. Boys were more likely than girls to meet recommendations for breakfast eating, vegetable intake, moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity and screen‐time, but boys were less likely to meet recommendations regarding SSB intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Students from low ICSEA schools would benefit from additional support to improve dietary‐related behaviors and intentions. More research is required to identify what targeted approaches will address sex differences in adolescents' lifestyle behaviors.
Evaluation of a Free Milk in Schools Program in New Zealand: Effects on Children's Milk Consumption and Anthropometrics
Authors: Marsh Samantha , Jiang Yannan , Carter Karen , Wall Clare
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

While dietary sources of calcium are important for bone health, the intake of milk and milk products decreases as children get older. A free milk in schools program may mitigate this decrease in milk consumption. We evaluated the Fonterra Milk for schools program (a free milk initiative) by determining changes in children's milk consumption and anthropometric measures over a 2‐year period.

METHODS

The evaluation was conducted in children aged 7‐9 years in a representative sample of primary schools participating in the free milk program, in Auckland, New Zealand. The primary outcome was the proportion of children meeting the New Zealand guidelines for dairy and milk product consumption over 7 days (≥2 servings per day). Changes in anthropometric measures were also assessed as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Nine schools (N = 511 children) participated in the evaluation. The proportion of children meeting the New Zealand guidelines for milk and milk product consumption over 7 days increased significantly from baseline to 2 years' follow‐up (72% vs 94%; p < .001). Body mass index z scores did not change significantly between baseline and 2 years' follow‐up.

CONCLUSIONS

The Fonterra Milk for Schools initiative appears to be an effective way of increasing milk/milk product consumption behaviors in school‐aged children.
Generalized Finite Element Formulation of Fiber Beam Elements for Distributed Plasticity in Multiple Regions
Authors: Park Kyoungsoo , Kim Hyungtae , Kim Dae‐Jin
Published: July 2018

A generalized fiber beam element formulation is proposed to accurately capture the formation of multiple plastic regions with a coarse mesh, which usually occurs in the process of structural collapses. The strong gradient of displacement near plastic regions in a fiber beam element can be accurately described using a special plastic enrichment function. The two types of the plastic enrichment functions are suggested for the cases where the plastic region is located fully inside an element and spread over a node, respectively. In this approach, the optimal shape of the plastic enrichment function can be updated by reflecting plastic deformation at the previous loading step. Furthermore, if plastic regions appear in multiple locations in an element, the corresponding plastic enrichment function can be adaptively reconstructed on the basis of plastic region distribution without introducing additional degrees of freedom. The effectiveness of the proposed method is investigated in terms of accuracy and computational cost through several numerical experiments.
Diets of giants: the nutritional value of sauropod diet during the Mesozoic
Authors: Gill Fiona L. , Hummel Jürgen , Sharifi A. Reza , Lee Alexandra P. , Lomax Barry H.
Published: July 2018

A major uncertainty in estimating energy budgets and population densities of extinct animals is the carrying capacity of their ecosystems, constrained by net primary productivity (NPP) and its digestible energy content. The hypothesis that increases in NPP due to elevated atmospheric CO2 contributed to the unparalleled size of the sauropods has recently been rejected, based on modern studies on herbivorous insects that imply a general, negative correlation of diet quality and increasing CO2. However, the nutritional value of plants grown under elevated CO2 levels might be very different for vertebrate megaherbivores than for insects. Here we show plant species‐specific responses in metabolizable energy and nitrogen content, equivalent to a two‐fold variation in daily food intake estimates for a typical sauropod, for dinosaur food plant analogues grown under CO2 concentrations spanning estimates for Mesozoic atmospheric concentrations. Our results potentially rebut the hypothesis that constraints on sauropod diet quality were driven by Mesozoic CO2 concentration.
The red bayberry genome and genetic basis of sex determination
Authors: Jia Hui‐Min , Jia Hui‐Juan , Cai Qing‐Le , Wang Yan , Zhao Hai‐Bo , Yang Wei‐Fei , Wang Guo‐Yun , Li Ying‐Hui , Zhan Dong‐Liang , Shen Yu‐Tong , Niu Qing‐Feng , Chang Le , Qiu Jie , Zhao Lan , Xie Han‐Bing , Fu Wan‐Yi , Jin Jing , Li Xiong‐Wei , Jiao Yun , Zhou Chao‐Chao , Tu Ting , Chai Chun‐Yan , Gao Jin‐Long , Fan Long‐Jiang , van de Weg Eric , Wang Jun‐Yi , Gao Zhong‐Shan
Published: July 2018

Morella rubra, red bayberry, is an economically important fruit tree in south China. Here, we assembled the first high‐quality genome for both a female and a male individual of red bayberry. The genome size was 313‐Mb, and 90% sequences were assembled into eight pseudo chromosome molecules, with 32 493 predicted genes. By whole‐genome comparison between the female and male and association analysis with sequences of bulked and individual DNA samples from female and male, a 59‐Kb region determining female was identified and located on distal end of pseudochromosome 8, which contains abundant transposable element and seven putative genes, four of them are related to sex floral development. This 59‐Kb female‐specific region was likely to be derived from duplication and rearrangement of paralogous genes and retained non‐recombinant in the female‐specific region. Sex‐specific molecular markers developed from candidate genes co‐segregated with sex in a genetically diverse female and male germplasm. We propose sex determination follow the ZW model of female heterogamety. The genome sequence of red bayberry provides a valuable resource for plant sex chromosome evolution and also provides important insights for molecular biology, genetics and modern breeding in Myricaceae family.
Payoffs for layoffs? An examination of CEO relative pay and firm performance surrounding layoff announcements
Authors: Bentley F. Scott , Fulmer Ingrid S. , Kehoe Rebecca R.
Published: July 2018

In this study, we theorize that chief executive officers’ (CEOs’) peer pay comparisons influence their decisions to engage in layoffs, and we consider the conditions under which layoffs deliver “payoffs” in the form of increases in subsequent CEO relative pay. Our results indicate that CEOs receiving compensation below their peers are significantly more likely to announce layoffs in the subsequent year, relative to those receiving compensation above their peers. Further, we find that the relationship between layoffs and subsequent changes in CEO relative pay depends on postlayoff changes in firm performance, with CEOs in firms with the largest performance gains receiving the largest increases in relative pay. We also show that our results are robust to an alternative operationalization of CEO relative pay. We provide evidence that external social comparisons may have predictable consequences for both CEOs’ propensities to engage in particular strategic actions and future changes in CEOs’ relative pay.
Pathological diagnosis of combined Alzheimer's disease and argyrophilic grain dementia in a very elderly man who presented with advanced behavioural and psychological symptoms
Authors: Iwasaki Yasushi , Deguchi Akira , Mori Keiko , Ito Masumi , Kawai Yoshinari , Mimuro Maya , Yoshida Mari
Published: July 2018

This case report describes a Japanese man who presented with slowly progressive memory disturbances that began at the age of 79 years. The man also displayed conspicuous behaviour and psychological symptoms in the early stage of dementia. Computed tomography revealed atrophy of the amygdala and severe hippocampal deterioration, particularly in the anterior portion. Lateral ventricular dilatation, mainly affecting the anterior and inferior horns, was also observed. Interestingly, cerebral neocortical atrophy in the frontal and temporal lobes was considerably mild for the patient's age. Apolipoprotein E gene analysis showed epsilon 3 homozygosity. The patient died at the age of 96 years, and his clinical diagnosis was Alzheimer's disease with severe behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. In addition to indicating considerable hippocampal atrophy, an autopsy revealed numerous neurofibrillary tangles and argyrophilic grains in the brain, as well as extensive senile plaques. Cerebral amyloid angiopathy was also recognized. The pathological findings were suggestive of both Alzheimer's disease and argyrophilic grain dementia; other neurodegenerative disorders were not apparent. The clinicopathologic findings of the present case suggest significant consideration should be made when determining the clinical diagnosis and pathogenesis of senile dementia.
A Surface-to-Surface Finite Element Algorithm for Large Deformation Frictional Contact in febio
Authors: Zimmerman Brandon K. , Ateshian Gerard A.
Published: July 2018

This study formulates a finite element algorithm for frictional contact of solid materials, accommodating finite deformation and sliding. The algorithm uses a penalty method regularized with an augmented Lagrangian scheme to enforce contact constraints in a nonmortar surface-to-surface approach. Use of a novel kinematical approach to contact detection and enforcement of frictional constraints allows solution of complex problems previously requiring mortar methods or contact smoothing algorithms. Patch tests are satisfied to a high degree of accuracy with a single-pass penalty method, ensuring formulation errors do not affect the solution. The accuracy of the implementation is verified with Hertzian contact, and illustrations demonstrating the ability to handle large deformations and sliding are presented and validated against prior literature. A biomechanically relevant example addressing finger friction during grasping demonstrates the utility of the proposed algorithm. The algorithm is implemented in the open source software febio, and the source code is made available to the general public.
CRISPR-enhanced engineering of therapy-sensitive cancer cells for self-targeting of primary and metastatic tumors
Authors: Reinshagen Clemens , Bhere Deepak , Choi Sung Hugh , Hutten Stefan , Nesterenko Irina , Wakimoto Hiroaki , Le Roux Eloi , Rizvi Alia , Du Wanlu , Minicucci Charles , Shah Khalid
Published: July 2018

CRISPR-engineered receptor-specific self-targeted tumor cells demonstrate antitumor efficacy in vitro and in vivo.
Leaderless mRNAs in the Spotlight: Ancient but Not Outdated!
Authors: Beck Heather J. , Moll Isabella
Published: July 2018

Previously, leaderless mRNAs (lmRNAs) were perceived to make up only a minor fraction of the transcriptome in bacteria. However, advancements in RNA sequencing technology are uncovering vast numbers of lmRNAs, particularly in archaea,
Actinobacteria
, and extremophiles and thus underline their significance in cellular physiology and regulation. Due to the absence of conventional ribosome binding signals, lmRNA translation initiation is distinct from canonical mRNAs and can therefore be differentially regulated. The ribosome’s inherent ability to bind a 5′-terminal AUG can stabilize and protect the lmRNA from degradation or allow ribosomal loading for downstream initiation events. As a result, lmRNAs remain translationally competent during a variety of physiological conditions, allowing them to contribute to multiple regulatory mechanisms. Furthermore, the abundance of lmRNAs can increase during adverse conditions through the upregulation of lmRNA transcription from alternative promoters or by the generation of lmRNAs from canonical mRNAs cleaved by an endonucleolytic toxin. In these ways, lmRNA translation can continue during stress and contribute to regulation, illustrating their importance in the cell. Due to their presence in all domains of life and their ability to be translated by heterologous hosts, lmRNAs appear further to represent ancestral transcripts that might allow us to study the evolution of the ribosome and the translational process.
Validity of the PROMIS-10 Global Health assessed by telephone and on paper in minor stroke and transient ischaemic attack in the Netherlands
Authors: Lam Ka Hoo , Kwa Vincent I H
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Dysfunction after transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and minor stroke is often underestimated by clinical measures. Patient-reported outcome measures used in value-based healthcare may help in detecting these problems. The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 10-Question Short Form (PROMIS-10 Global Health) is a concise patient-centred outcome measuring tool proposed for assessing health status in patients who had stroke. This study aims to address the validity of the Dutch PROMIS-10 in patients who had stroke in the Netherlands and also aims to compare telephone versus on-paper assessment.

Design

Observational cohort study.

Setting

Single-centre hospital in the Netherlands.

Participants

75 patients who were diagnosed with TIA or minor stroke and discharged without rehabilitation treatment 1 year ago (between December 2014 and January 2016) completed the study.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

PROMIS-10 physical (PH) and mental health (MH) scores assessed 1 year poststroke on paper (n=37) and by telephone (n=38) was compared with RAND-36 physical and mental component scores assessed on paper.

Results

PROMIS-10 and RAND-36 correlated significantly in PH, r=0.81 (95% CI 0.69 to 0.88), and MH, r=0.76 (95% CI 0.64 to 0.85). Paper-and-pencil assessed correlations were r=0.87 and 0.79 for PH and MH, respectively. Telephone assessed correlations were r=0.76 and 0.73 for PH and MH, respectively. Internal consistency analysis indicated high reliabilities for both health components of the PROMIS-10, all Cronbach’s α>0.70.

Conclusions

The Dutch PROMIS-10 was found to strongly correlate with the RAND-36. Paper-and-pencil assessment was found to have a higher correlation than telephone assessment. This study provides support for the use of the Dutch PROMIS-10 in assessing health status in patients after TIA and minor stroke.
Depression as a risk factor for the development of rheumatoid arthritis: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Vallerand Isabelle A , Lewinson Ryan T , Frolkis Alexandra D , Lowerison Mark W , Kaplan Gilaad G , Swain Mark G , Bulloch Andrew G M , Patten Scott B , Barnabe Cheryl
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with increased levels of systemic proinflammatory cytokines, including tumour necrosis factor alpha. As these cytokines are pathogenic in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), our aim was to explore on a population-level whether MDD increases the risk of developing RA.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using The Health Improvement Network (THIN) database (from 1986 to 2012). Observation time was recorded for both the MDD and referent cohorts until patients developed RA or were censored. Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine the risk of developing RA among patients with MDD, accounting for age, sex, medical comorbidities, smoking, body mass index and antidepressant use.

Results

A cohort of 403 932 patients with MDD and a referent cohort of 5 339 399 patients without MDD were identified in THIN. Cox proportional hazards models revealed a 31% increased risk of developing RA among those with MDD in an unadjusted model (HR=1.31, 95% CI 1.25 to 1.36, p<0.0001). When adjusting for all covariates, the risk remained significantly increased among those with MDD (HR=1.38, 95% CI 1.31 to 1.46, p<0.0001). Antidepressant use demonstrated a confounding effect that was protective on the association between MDD and RA.

Conclusion

MDD increased the risk of developing RA by 38%, and antidepressants may decrease this risk in these patients. Future research is necessary to confirm the underlying mechanism of MDD on the pathogenesis of RA.
Carbon isotopes, stratigraphy, and environmental change: the Middle–Upper Cambrian Positive Excursion (SPICE) in Port au Port Group, western Newfoundland, Canada
Authors: Barili Rosalia , Neilson Joyce Elaine , Brasier Alexander Thomas , Goldberg Karin , Pastro Bardola Tatiana , De Ros Luiz Fernando , Leng Melanie
Published: July 2018

In many basins, Upper Cambrian carbonate successions display intervals with a positive carbon isotope excursion (CIE) of up to +5‰. In North America, this marks the boundary between the Sauk II–III super-sequences. A Steptoean positive carbon isotope excursion (SPICE) locality previously identified in the Port au Port peninsula, western Newfoundland, has been revisited and an additional potential SPICE locality found. In both locations, a CIE is found to be associated with a prominent bioherm and sandstone layer within a sequence of carbonate rocks. At March Point columnar stromatolites occur, whereas at Felix Cove thrombolites can be seen. In the latter, the sandstone immediately overlies the thrombolites coincident with the CIE, whereas at March Point a dolomitized grainstone occurs above the stromatolites. The sandstone at this locality post-dates the CIE. Although lower than the SPICE in some localities, a positive CIE is present in both sections: March Point (+1.1‰) and Felix Cove (+1.8‰). Additionally, δ13Corgrises from −30.0‰ to −22.0‰ at March Point and from −27‰ to −24.0‰ at Felix Cove and, in accordance with previously published work, we suggest that this could be the SPICE. Comparison of the stratigraphy and petrography between the two localities suggest that both depositional and diagenetic factors could have influenced the nature of the interpreted SPICE in Newfoundland. It is also possible that the local carbon isotopic signature may have been influenced by a semi-restricted depositional and early diagenetic environment related to the paleogeographic configuration rather than the global marine excursion.
The dream and the reality: meeting decision-making time frames while incorporating ecosystem and economic models into management strategy evaluation,
Authors: Deroba Jonathan J. , Gaichas Sarah K. , Lee Min-Yang , Feeney Rachel G. , Boelke Deirdre , Irwin Brian J.
Published: July 2018

Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) in the Northwest Atlantic have been managed with interim harvest control rules (HCRs). A stakeholder-driven management strategy evaluation (MSE) was conducted that incorporated a broad range of objectives. The MSE process was completed within 1 year. Constant catch, conditional constant catch, and a biomass-based (BB) HCR with a 15% restriction on the interannual change in the quota could achieve more stable yields than BB HCRs without such restrictions, but could not attain as high of yields and resulted in more negative outcomes for terns (Sterna hirundo; a predator of herring). A similar range of performance could be achieved by applying a BB HCR annually every 3 years or every 5 years. Predators (i.e., dogfish (Squalus acanthias), bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus), and terns) were generally insensitive to the range of HCRs. While median net revenues were sensitive to some HCRs, time series analysis suggests that most HCRs produced a stable equilibrium of net revenue. To meet management needs, some aspects of the simulations were less than might be considered scientifically ideal, but using “models of intermediate complexity” were informative for managers and formed a foundation for future improvements.
From dinuclear systems to close binary stars: Application to mass transfer
Authors: Sargsyan V. V. , Lenske H. , Adamian G. G. , Antonenko N. V.
Published: July 2018

Applying the microscopic nuclear physics ideas to macroscopic stellar systems, we study the evolution of the compact di-stars in mass asymmetry (transfer) coordinate. Depending on the internal structure of constituent stars, the initial mass asymmetry, total mass, and orbital angular momentum, the close di-star system can either exist in symmetric configuration or fuse into mono-star. The limitations for the formation of stable symmetric binary stars are analyzed.
Scalar Casimir effect in a linearly expanding universe
Authors: Saharian A. A. , Petrosyan T. A. , Abajyan S. V. , Nersisyan B. B.
Published: July 2018

We investigate quantum vacuum effects for a massive scalar field, induced by two planar boundaries in background of a linearly expanding spatially flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker spacetime for an arbitrary number of spatial dimensions. For the Robin boundary conditions and for general curvature coupling parameter, a complete set of mode functions is presented and the related Hadamard function is evaluated. The results are specified for the most important special cases of the adiabatic and conformal vacuum states. The vacuum expectation values of the field squared and of the energy–momentum tensor are investigated for a massive conformally coupled field. The vacuum energy–momentum tensor, in addition to the diagonal components, has nonzero off-diagonal component describing energy flux along the direction perpendicular to the plates. The influence of the gravitational field on the local characteristics of the vacuum state is essential at distances from the boundaries larger than the curvature radius of the background spacetime. In contrast to the Minkowskian bulk, at large distances the boundary-induced expectation values follow as power law for both massless and massive fields. Another difference is that the Casimir forces acting on the separate plates do not coincide if the corresponding Robin coefficients are different. At large separations between the plates the decay of the forces is power law. We show that during the cosmological expansion the forces may change the sign.
Measurement of the enhancement of the nuclear interaction yield with crystalline targets at cyclotron energies
Authors: Bagli E. , De Salvador D. , Guidi G.
Published: July 2018

Ordered structures such as crystalline materials may help to enhance the nuclear interaction yield. Indeed, the aligned atoms act as a single entity on impinging charged particles, causing the trajectory to pass from its random motion to a deterministic one. In fact, Monte Carlo simulations suggested that specific crystal alignments allow for the enhancement of the production rate of nuclear inelastic reactions, because particles are forced to pass by the atomic nuclei more frequently than would happen in an amorphous material. Recent measurements we carried out at the AN2000 accelerator of the National Institute for Nuclear Physics Legnaro National Laboratories showed the experimental evidence of such an effect. A 643.5 keV collimated proton beam was used to induce the [Formula: see text]O(p,[Formula: see text]N reaction in an Al[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] substrate oriented along the <0001> axis. The capability of manipulating such an effect paves the way to studying innovative targets for the enhancement of the nuclear interaction yield with a constant density.
Software Theater—Teaching Demo-Oriented Prototyping
Authors: Krusche Stephan , Dzvonyar Dora , Xu Han , Bruegge Bernd
Published: July 2018

Modern capstone courses use agile methods to deliver and demonstrate software early in the project. However, a simple demonstration of functional and static aspects does not provide real-world software usage context, although this is integral to understand software requirements. Software engineering involves capabilities such as creativity, imagination, and interaction, which are typically not emphasized in software engineering courses. A more engaging, dynamic way of presenting software prototypes is needed to demonstrate the context in which the software is used. We combine agile methods, scenario-based design, and theatrical aspects into software theater, an approach to present visionary scenarios using techniques borrowed from theater and film, including props and humor.

We describe the software theater workflow, provide examples, and explain patterns to demonstrate its potential. We illustrate two large case studies in which we teach students with varying levels of experience to apply software theater: a capstone course involving industrial customers with 100 students and an interactive lecture-based course with 400 students. We empirically evaluated the use of software theater in both courses. Our evaluations show that students can understand and apply software theater within one semester and that this technique increases their motivation to prepare demonstrations even early in the project. Software theater is more creative, memorable, dynamic, and engaging than normal demonstration techniques and brings fun into education.
A Process-Variation-Tolerant Method for Nanophotonic On-Chip Network
Authors: Xu Yi , Yang Jun , Melhem Rami
Published: July 2018

Nanophotonic networks, a potential candidate for future networks on-chip, have been challenged for their reliability due to several device-level limitations. One of the main issues is that fabrication errors (a.k.a. process variations) can cause devices to malfunction, rendering communication unreliable. For example, the microring resonator, a preferred optical modulator device, may not resonate at the designated wavelength under process variations (PVs), leading to communication errors and bandwidth loss.

This article proposes a series of solutions to the wavelength drifting problem of microrings and subsequent bandwidth loss problem of an optical network, due to PVs. The objective is to maximize network bandwidth through proper arrangement among microrings and wavelengths with minimum power requirements. Our arrangement, called “MinTrim,” solves this problem using simple integer linear programming, adding supplementary microrings, and allowing flexible assignment of wavelengths to network nodes as long as the resulting network presents maximal bandwidth. Each step is shown to improve bandwidth provisioning with lower power requirements. Evaluations on a sample network show that a baseline network could lose more than 40% bandwidth due to PVs. Such loss can be recovered by MinTrim to produce a network with 98.4% working bandwidth. In addition, the power required for arranging microrings is 39% lower than the baseline. Therefore, MinTrim provides an efficient PV-tolerant solution to improving the reliability of on-chip photonics.
Multiple-Disease System in Coffee: From Crop Loss Assessment to Sustainable Management
Authors: Avelino Jacques , Allinne Clémentine , Cerda Rolando , Willocquet Laetitia , Savary Serge
Published: July 2018

Assessment of crop loss due to multiple diseases and pests (D&P) is a necessary step in designing sustainable crop management systems. Understanding the drivers of D&P development and yield loss helps identify leverage points for crop health management. Crop loss assessment is also necessary for the quantification of D&P regulation service to identify promising systems where ecosystem service provision is optimized. In perennial crops, assessment of crop losses due to D&P is difficult, as injuries can affect yield over years. In coffee, one of the first perennials in which crop loss trials were implemented, crop losses concurrent with injuries were found to be approximately 50% lower than lagged losses that originated following the death of productive branches due to D&P. Crop losses can be assessed by field trials and surveys, where yield reduction factors such as the number of productive branches that have died are quantified, and by modeling, where damage mechanisms for each injury are considered over several years.
Differential influence of vitamin C on the peripheral and cerebral circulation after diving and exposure to hyperoxia
Authors: Barak Otto F. , Caljkusic Kresimir , Hoiland Ryan L. , Ainslie Philip N. , Thom Stephen R. , Yang Ming , Jovanov Pavle , Dujic Zeljko
Published: July 2018

We examined if the diving-induced vascular changes in the peripheral and cerebral circulation could be prevented by oral antioxidant supplementation. Fourteen divers performed a single scuba dive to eighteen meter sea water for 47 min. Twelve of the divers participated in a follow-up study involving breathing 60% of oxygen at ambient pressure for 47 min. Before both studies, participants ingested vitamin C (2 g/day) or a placebo capsule for 6 days. After a 2-wk washout, the study was repeated with the different condition. Endothelium-dependent vasodilator function of the brachial artery was assessed pre- and postintervention using the flow-mediated dilation (FMD) technique. Transcranial Doppler ultrasound was used to measure intracranial blood velocities pre- and 90 min postintervention. FMD was reduced by ∼32.8% and ∼21.2% postdive in the placebo and vitamin C trial and posthyperoxic condition in the placebo trial by ∼28.2% ( P < 0.05). This reduction in FMD was attenuated by ∼10% following vitamin C supplementation in the hyperoxic study ( P > 0.05). Elevations in intracranial blood velocities 30 min after surfacing from diving were reduced in the vitamin C study compared with the placebo trial ( P < 0.05). O2 breathing had no postintervention effects on intracranial velocities ( P > 0.05). Prophylactic ingestion of vitamin C effectively abrogated peripheral vascular dysfunction following exposure to 60% O2 but did not abolish the postdive decrease in FMD. Transient elevations of intracranial velocities postdive were reduced by vitamin C. These findings highlight the differential influence of vitamin C on peripheral and cerebral circulations following scuba diving, which are only partly mediated via hyperoxia.
MEF2 as upstream regulator of the transcriptome signature in human skeletal muscle during unloading
Authors: Rullman Eric , Fernandez-Gonzalo Rodrigo , Mekjavić Igor B. , Gustafsson Thomas , Eiken Ola
Published: July 2018

Our understanding of skeletal muscle structural and functional alterations during unloading has increased in recent decades, yet the molecular mechanisms underpinning these changes have only started to be unraveled. The purpose of the current investigation was to assess changes in skeletal muscle gene expression after 21 days of bed rest, with a particular focus on predicting upstream regulators of muscle disuse. Additionally, the association between differential microRNA expression and the transcriptome signature of bed rest were investigated. mRNAs from musculus vastus lateralis biopsies obtained from 12 men before and after the bed rest were analyzed using a microarray. There were 54 significantly upregulated probesets after bed rest, whereas 103 probesets were downregulated (false discovery rate 10%; fold-change cutoff ≥1.5). Among the upregulated genes, transcripts related to denervation-induced alterations in skeletal muscle were identified, e.g., acetylcholine receptor subunit delta and perinatal myosin. The most downregulated transcripts were functionally enriched for mitochondrial genes and genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis, followed by a large number of contractile fiber components. Upstream regulator analysis identified a robust inhibition of the myocyte enhancer factor-2 (MEF2) family, in particular MEF2C, which was suggested to act upstream of several key downregulated genes, most notably peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1-α (PGC-1α)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and CRSP3. Only a few microRNAs were identified as playing a role in the overall transcriptome picture induced by sustained bed rest. Our results suggest that the MEF2 family is a key regulator underlying the transcriptional signature of bed rest and, hence, ultimately also skeletal muscle alterations induced by systemic unloading in humans.
Angiotensin receptor and tumor necrosis factor-α activation contributes to glucose intolerance independent of systolic blood pressure in obese rats
Authors: Rodriguez Ruben , Lee Andrew , Mathis Keisa W. , Broome Hanna J. , Thorwald Max , Martinez Bridget , Nakano Daisuke , Nishiyama Akira , Ryan Michael J. , Ortiz Rudy M.
Published: July 2018

Pathological activation of the renin-angiotensin system and inflammation are associated with hypertension and the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). The contributions of angiotensin receptor type 1 (AT1) activation, independent of blood pressure, and inflammation to glucose intolerance and renal damage are not well defined. Using a rat model of MetS, we hypothesized that the onset of glucose intolerance is primarily mediated by AT1 activation and inflammation independent of elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP). To address this hypothesis, we measured changes in SBP, adiposity, plasma glucose and triglyceride levels, and glucose tolerance in six groups of rats: 1) lean, strain control Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO; n = 5), 2) obese Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF; n = 8), 3) OLETF + angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB; 10 mg olmesartan/kg; n = 8), 4) OLETF + tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitor (ETAN; 1.25 mg etanercept/kg; n = 6), 5) OLETF + TNF-α inhibitor + angiotensin receptor blocker (ETAN+ARB; 1.25 mg etanercept/kg + 10 mg olmesartan/kg; n = 6), and 6) OLETF + calcium channel blocker (CCB; 5 mg amlodipine/kg; n = 7). ARB and ETAN+ARB were most effective at decreasing SBP in OLETF, and ETAN did not offer any additional reduction. Glucose tolerance improved in ARB, ETAN, and ETAN+ARB compared with OLETF, whereas CCB had no detectable effect. Furthermore, all treatments reduced adiposity, whereas ETAN alone normalized urinary albumin excretion. These results suggest that AT1 activation and inflammation are primary factors in the development of glucose intolerance in a setting of MetS and that the associated increase in SBP is primarily mediated by AT1 activation.