bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bullough’s bump: unusual protuberant fibro-osseous tumor of the temporal bone. Case report
Authors: Jiang Bowen , Mushlin Harry , Zhang Lei , James Aaron W. , Cohen Alan R.
Published: December 2017

Scalp and calvarial masses are common in children and the differential diagnosis is broad. The authors recently cared for a child with an unusual fibro-osseous lesion of the temporal bone that has previously not been described in the pediatric neurosurgery literature. A 10-year-old girl presented with a firm, slowly enlarging protuberant mass arising from the squamous suture of the temporal bone without intracranial extension. The mass was removed en bloc through a temporal craniectomy and cranioplasty was performed. The patient had a smooth postoperative course. Histological examination showed multiple oval osseous islands dispersed throughout a bland fibrous stroma. The pathological diagnosis was “Bullough’s bump,” a rare, benign fibro-osseous neoplasm first described in 1999, and only 8 reported cases appear in the literature. Here the authors report the first case of Bullough’s bump in a child.
Influence of non-uniform temperature on transient electric field for ± 500 kV converter transformer under polarity reversal voltage
Authors: Liu Gang , Chi Cheng , Li Lin , Jin Yanjiao , Ma Yongqiang , Sun Lipeng
Published: December 2017

In order to investigate the impacts of the non-uniform temperature on the electric field distribution under PR (polarity reversal) voltage, the core loss and windings loss of a [Formula: see text] 500 kV converter transformer are calculated based on the electromagnetic theory firstly. Then the 2D fluid-thermal model of the converter transformer is adopted, and the temperature distribution under normal condition is obtained by utilizing the CFD software of Fluent. Afterward, the thermal data obtained from the mesh for computation of fluid-thermal field is mapped to the mesh for computation of electric field based on interpolation, and finally the transient electric field distributions under different PR voltages are computed by the time stepping finite element method. The comparisons of the electric field distributions under different PR voltages at uniform and non-uniform temperature are conducted, which provides a reference for insulation design and fault analysis of the converter transformer.
Sterols from the fruit barks of Coelocaryon klainei Pierre ex Heckel (Myristicaceae)
Authors: Akoubet Ouayogode Aminata , Marcelline Adiko N’dri , Claude Kablan Ahmont Landry , Sandrine Aka Any-Grah , Siomenan Coulibali , Léopold Adjougoua Atoli , Guillaume Kodjo Charles , Etienne Effo Kouakou , Jacques Konan Dibi , Jean-François Kablan Richmond , Alette Zialé Edwige , Barthélemy Attioua Koffi , Diénéba Koné Bamba
Published: December 2017

Two sterols namely β-sitosterol (1) and stigmasterol (2) were isolated from methanolic extract of the fruit barks of Coelocaryon klainei Pierre ex Heckel (Myristicaceae). They were isolated for the first time from this species. It is the first isolation of compounds in this genus Coelocaryon. The structures were elucidated on the basis of one and two-dimensional NMR, SM, IR and UV.Akoubet et al., International Current Pharmaceutical Journal, August 2017, 6(9): 49-52http://www.icpjonline.com/documents/Vol6Issue9/01.pdf
Generation and Performance of R132H Mutant IDH1 Rabbit Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Rashidian Juliet , Copaciu Raul , Su Qin , Merritt Brett , Johnson Claire , Yahyabeik Aril , French Ella , Cummings Kelsea
Published: December 2017

Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) gene mutations have been observed in a majority of diffuse astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and secondary glioblastomas, and the mutant IDH1 R132H is detectable in most of these lesions. By specifically targeting the R132H mutation through B-cell cloning, a novel rabbit monoclonal antibody, MRQ-67, was produced that can recognize mutant IDH1 R132H and does not react with the wild type protein as demonstrated by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blotting. Through immunohistochemistry, the antibody is able to highlight neoplastic cells in glioma tissue specimens, and can be used as a tool in glioma subtyping. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) detection of IDH1 mutant protein may also be used to visualize single infiltrating tumor cells in surrounding brain tissue with an otherwise normal appearance.
A Thermographic Measurement Approach to Assess Supercapacitor Electrical Performances
Authors: Galla Stanislaw
Published: December 2017

This paper describes a proposal for the qualitative assessment of condition of supercapacitors based on the conducted thermographic measurements. The presented measurement stand was accompanied by the concept of methodology of performing tests. Necessary conditions, which were needed to minimize the influence of disturbing factors on the performance of thermal imaging measurements, were also indicated. Mentioned factors resulted from both: the hardware limitations and from the necessity to prepare samples. The algorithm that was used to determine the basic parameters for assessment has been presented. The article suggests to use additional factors that may facilitate the analysis of obtained results. Measuring the usefulness of the proposed methodology was tested on commercial samples of supercapacitors. All of the tests were taken in conjunction with the classical methods based on capacitance (C) and equivalent series resistance (ESR) measurements, which were also presented in the paper. Selected results presenting the observed changes occurring in both: basic parameters of supercapacitors and accompanying fluctuations of thermal fields, along with analysis, were shown. The observed limitations of the proposed assessment method and the suggestions for its development were also described.
Safety Aspects of Bio-Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Catalán Julia , Norppa Hannu
Published: December 2017

Moving towards a bio-based and circular economy implies a major focus on the responsible and sustainable utilization of bio-resources. The emergence of nanotechnology has opened multiple possibilities, not only in the existing industrial sectors, but also for completely novel applications of nanoscale bio-materials, the commercial exploitation of which has only begun during the last few years. Bio-based materials are often assumed not to be toxic. However, this pre-assumption is not necessarily true. Here, we provide a short overview on health and environmental aspects associated with bio-based nanomaterials, and on the relevant regulatory requirements. We also discuss testing strategies that may be used for screening purposes at pre-commercial stages. Although the tests presently used to reveal hazards are still evolving, regarding modifi­cations required for nanomaterials, their application is needed before the upscaling or commercialization of bio-based nanomaterials, to ensure the market potential of the nanomaterials is not delayed by uncertainties about safety issues.
The Perceived Benefits of Apps by Construction Professionals in New Zealand
Authors: Liu Tong , Mbachu Jasper , Mathrani Anuradha , Jones Beatrix , McDonald Barry
Published: December 2017

The construction sector is a key driver of economic growth in New Zealand; however, its productivity is still considered to be low. Prior research has suggested that information and communication technology (ICT) can help enhance efficiency and productivity. However, there is little research on the use of mobile technologies by New Zealand construction workforce. This paper reports findings of an exploratory study with the objective of examining the perceived benefits regarding uptake of apps in New Zealand construction sector. Using self-administered questionnaire survey, feedback was received from the major construction trade and professional organisations in New Zealand. Survey data was analyzed using descriptive, one-sample t-test, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling. Results showed that iPhone and Android phone currently dominate the smartphone market in New Zealand construction industry. The top three application areas are site photos, health and safety reporting and timekeeping. The benefits of mobile apps were widely confirmed by the construction professionals. The benefit of “better client relationship management and satisfaction” has substantial correlation with overall productivity improvement and best predictor of the overall productivity improvement. These findings provide a starting point for further research aimed at improving the uptake and full leveraging of mobile technologies to improve the dwindling productivity trend in New Zealand construction industry.
Entropy-Based Investigation on the Precipitation Variability over the Hexi Corridor in China
Authors: Cheng Liang , Niu Jun , Liao Dehai
Published: December 2017

The spatial and temporal variability of precipitation time series were investigated for the Hexi Corridor, in Northwest China, by analyzing the entropy information. The examinations were performed on monthly, seasonal, and annual timescales based on 29 meteorological stations for the period of 1961–2015. The apportionment entropy and intensity entropy were used to analyze the regional precipitation characteristics, including the intra-annual and decadal distribution of monthly and annual precipitation amounts, as well as the number of precipitation days within a year and a decade. The regions with high precipitation variability are found in the western part of the Hexi corridor and with less precipitation, and may have a high possibility of drought occurrence. The variability of the number of precipitation days decreased from the west to the east of the corridor. Higher variability, in terms of both of precipitation amount and intensity during crop-growing season, has been found in the recent decade. In addition, the correlation between entropy-based precipitation variability and the crop yield is also compared, and the crop yield in historical periods is found to be correlated with the precipitation intensity disorder index in the middle reaches of the Hexi corridor.
Social Networks, Engagement and Resilience in University Students
Authors: Fernández-Martínez Elena , Andina-Díaz Elena , Fernández-Peña Rosario , García-López Rosa , Fulgueiras-Carril Iván , Liébana-Presa Cristina
Published: December 2017

Analysis of social networks may be a useful tool for understanding the relationship between resilience and engagement, and this could be applied to educational methodologies, not only to improve academic performance, but also to create emotionally sustainable networks. This descriptive study was carried out on 134 university students. We collected the network structural variables, degree of resilience (CD-RISC 10), and engagement (UWES-S). The computer programs used were excel, UCINET for network analysis, and SPSS for statistical analysis. The analysis revealed results of means of 28.61 for resilience, 2.98 for absorption, 4.82 for dedication, and 3.13 for vigour. The students had two preferred places for sharing information: the classroom and WhatsApp. The greater the value for engagement, the greater the degree of centrality in the friendship network among students who are beginning their university studies. This relationship becomes reversed as the students move to later academic years. In terms of resilience, the highest values correspond to greater centrality in the friendship networks. The variables of engagement and resilience influenced the university students’ support networks.
Efficient Removal of Tetracycline from Aqueous Media with a Fe3O4 Nanoparticles@graphene Oxide Nanosheets Assembly
Authors: Hu Xinjiang , Zhao Yunlin , Wang Hui , Tan Xiaofei , Yang Yuanxiu , Liu Yunguo
Published: December 2017

A readily separated composite was prepared via direct assembly of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles onto the surface of graphene oxide (GO) (labeled as Fe3O4@GO) and used as an adsorbent for the removal of tetracycline (TC) from wastewater. The effects of external environmental conditions, such as pH, ionic strength, humic acid (HA), TC concentration, and temperature, on the adsorption process were studied. The adsorption data were analyzed by kinetics and isothermal models. The results show that the Fe3O4@GO composite has excellent sorptive properties and can efficiently remove TC. At low pH, the adsorption capacity of Fe3O4@GO toward TC decreases slowly with increasing pH value, while the adsorption capacity decreases rapidly at higher pH values. The ionic strength has insignificant effect on TC adsorption. The presence of HA affects the affinity of Fe3O4@GO to TC. The pseudo-second-order kinetics model and Langmuir model fit the adsorption data well. When the initial concentration of TC is 100 mg/L, a slow adsorption process dominates. Film diffusion is the rate limiting step of the adsorption. Importantly, Fe3O4@GO has good regeneration performance. The above results are of great significance to promote the application of Fe3O4@GO in the treatment of antibiotic wastewater.
The E3 Ubiquitin Ligase RNF7 Negatively Regulates CARD14/CARMA2sh Signaling
Authors: Telesio Gianluca , Scudiero Ivan , Pizzulo Maddalena , Mazzone Pellegrino , Zotti Tiziana , Voccola Serena , Polvere Immacolata , Vito Pasquale , Stilo Romania
Published: December 2017

The three CARD-containing MAGUK (CARMA) proteins function as scaffolding molecules that regulate activation of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB. Recently, mutations in CARMA2 have been linked to psoriasis susceptibility due to their acquired altered capacity to activate NF-κB. By means of two-hybrid screening with yeast, we identified RING finger protein 7 (RNF7) as an interactor of CARMA2. We present evidence that RNF7 functions as a negative regulator of the NF-κB-activating capacity of CARMA2. Mechanistically, RNF7 influences CARMA2 signaling by regulating the ubiquitination state of MALT1 and the NF-κB-regulatory molecule NEMO. Interestingly, CARMA2short (CARMA2sh) mutants associated with psoriasis susceptibility escape the negative control exerted by RNF7. In conclusion, our findings identify a new mechanism through which the ability of CARMA2 to activate NF-κB is regulated, which could have significant implications for our understanding of why mutations of this protein trigger human psoriasis.
In Vivo Imaging of Prostate Cancer Tumors and Metastasis Using Non-Specific Fluorescent Nanoparticles in Mice
Authors: Genevois Coralie , Hocquelet Arnaud , Mazzocco Claire , Rustique Emilie , Couillaud Franck , Grenier Nicolas
Published: December 2017

With the growing interest in the use of nanoparticles (NPs) in nanomedicine, there is a crucial need for imaging and targeted therapies to determine NP distribution in the body after systemic administration, and to achieve strong accumulation in tumors with low background in other tissues. Accumulation of NPs in tumors results from different mechanisms, and appears extremely heterogeneous in mice models and rather limited in humans. Developing new tumor models in mice, with their low spontaneous NP accumulation, is thus necessary for screening imaging probes and for testing new targeting strategies. In the present work, accumulation of LipImageTM 815, a non-specific nanosized fluorescent imaging agent, was compared in subcutaneous, orthotopic and metastatic tumors of RM1 cells (murine prostate cancer cell line) by in vivo and ex vivo fluorescence imaging techniques. LipImageTM 815 mainly accumulated in liver at 24 h but also in orthotopic tumors. Limited accumulation occurred in subcutaneous tumors, and very low fluorescence was detected in metastasis. Altogether, these different tumor models in mice offered a wide range of NP accumulation levels, and a panel of in vivo models that may be useful to further challenge NP targeting properties.
The Role of Resveratrol in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Ko Jeong-Hyeon , Sethi Gautam , Um Jae-Young , Shanmugam Muthu K , Arfuso Frank , Kumar Alan Prem , Bishayee Anupam , Ahn Kwang Seok
Published: December 2017

Abstract: Natural product compounds have recently attracted significant attention from the scientific community for their potent effects against inflammation-driven diseases, including cancer. A significant amount of research, including preclinical, clinical, and epidemiological studies, has indicated that dietary consumption of polyphenols, found at high levels in cereals, pulses, vegetables, and fruits, may prevent the evolution of an array of diseases, including cancer. Cancer development is a carefully orchestrated progression where normal cells acquires mutations in their genetic makeup, which cause the cells to continuously grow, colonize, and metastasize to other organs such as the liver, lungs, colon, and brain. Compounds that modulate these oncogenic processes can be considered as potential anti-cancer agents that may ultimately make it to clinical application. Resveratrol, a natural stilbene and a non-flavonoid polyphenol, is a phytoestrogen that possesses anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and anti-cancer properties. It has been reported that resveratrol can reverse multidrug resistance in cancer cells, and, when used in combination with clinically used drugs, it can sensitize cancer cells to standard chemotherapeutic agents. Several novel analogs of resveratrol have been developed with improved anti-cancer activity, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetic profile. The current focus of this review is resveratrol’s in vivo and in vitro effects in a variety of cancers, and intracellular molecular targets modulated by this polyphenol. This is also accompanied by a comprehensive update of the various clinical trials that have demonstrated it to be a promising therapeutic and chemopreventive agent.
Developing a Novel Parameter Estimation Method for Agent-Based Model in Immune System Simulation under the Framework of History Matching: A Case Study on Influenza A Virus Infection
Authors: Li Tingting , Cheng Zhengguo , Zhang Le
Published: December 2017

Since they can provide a natural and flexible description of nonlinear dynamic behavior of complex system, Agent-based models (ABM) have been commonly used for immune system simulation. However, it is crucial for ABM to obtain an appropriate estimation for the key parameters of the model by incorporating experimental data. In this paper, a systematic procedure for immune system simulation by integrating the ABM and regression method under the framework of history matching is developed. A novel parameter estimation method by incorporating the experiment data for the simulator ABM during the procedure is proposed. First, we employ ABM as simulator to simulate the immune system. Then, the dimension-reduced type generalized additive model (GAM) is employed to train a statistical regression model by using the input and output data of ABM and play a role as an emulator during history matching. Next, we reduce the input space of parameters by introducing an implausible measure to discard the implausible input values. At last, the estimation of model parameters is obtained using the particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) by fitting the experiment data among the non-implausible input values. The real Influeza A Virus (IAV) data set is employed to demonstrate the performance of our proposed method, and the results show that the proposed method not only has good fitting and predicting accuracy, but it also owns favorable computational efficiency.
A Rapid Screening Method for the Measurement of Neonatal Total Homocysteine in Dried Blood Spots by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Maase Rose , Skrinska Victor , Younes Noura , Hassan Lubna , Mitri Rola , Matern Dietrich , Rinaldo Piero , Turgeon Coleman
Published: December 2017

Homocystinuria (HCU) due to cystathionine-β-synthase deficiency is generally regarded as a rare disease, but within the Qatari population has an incidence of 1 in 1800 live births. Most newborn screening methods for HCU using dried blood spots (DBS) rely on the detection of an elevated methionine level or a rapid screen for total homocysteine (tHCY). However, screening based on methionine levels alone lacks specificity and rapid liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods for tHCY exhibit variable results with high false positive rates. This report describes a LC-MS/MS method for detection of tHCY on DBS, with improved specificity. tHCY was extracted from DBS with a solution containing dithiothreitol and subsequently butylated with hydrochloric acid in n-butanol. The butyl esters were separated by liquid chromatography on a reverse-phase column and the homocysteine (HCY), detected by tandem mass spectrometry. The butyl ester of HCY eluted at 1.8 min. Total analysis time was 6.1 min per sample, including column flush and equilibration. This method allows for the quantification of tHCY over a linear range from 0.3 to 200 µM. Intraassay and interassay imprecision and recoveries were acceptable. Good concordance was observed with another LC-MS/MS method. Application of this method improves specificity and reduces false positive rates in screening for HCU.
Variation in CYP2A6 Activity and Personalized Medicine
Authors: Tanner Julie-Anne , Tyndale Rachel
Published: December 2017

The cytochrome P450 2A6 (CYP2A6) enzyme metabolizes several clinically relevant substrates, including nicotine—the primary psychoactive component in cigarette smoke. The gene that encodes the CYP2A6 enzyme is highly polymorphic, resulting in extensive interindividual variation in CYP2A6 enzyme activity and the rate of metabolism of nicotine and other CYP2A6 substrates including cotinine, tegafur, letrozole, efavirenz, valproic acid, pilocarpine, artemisinin, artesunate, SM-12502, caffeine, and tyrosol. CYP2A6 expression and activity are also impacted by non-genetic factors, including induction or inhibition by pharmacological, endogenous, and dietary substances, as well as age-related changes, or interactions with other hepatic enzymes, co-enzymes, and co-factors. As variation in CYP2A6 activity is associated with smoking behavior, smoking cessation, tobacco-related lung cancer risk, and with altered metabolism and resulting clinical responses for several therapeutics, CYP2A6 expression and enzyme activity is an important clinical consideration. This review will discuss sources of variation in CYP2A6 enzyme activity, with a focus on the impact of CYP2A6 genetic variation on metabolism of the CYP2A6 substrates.
Strategies to Achieve High-Performance White Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zhang Lirong , Li Xiang-Long , Luo Dongxiang , Xiao Peng , Xiao Wenping , Song Yuhong , Ang Qinshu , Liu Baiquan
Published: December 2017

As one of the most promising technologies for next-generation lighting and displays, white organic light-emitting diodes (WOLEDs) have received enormous worldwide interest due to their outstanding properties, including high efficiency, bright luminance, wide viewing angle, fast switching, lower power consumption, ultralight and ultrathin characteristics, and flexibility. In this invited review, the main parameters which are used to characterize the performance of WOLEDs are introduced. Subsequently, the state-of-the-art strategies to achieve high-performance WOLEDs in recent years are summarized. Specifically, the manipulation of charges and excitons distribution in the four types of WOLEDs (fluorescent WOLEDs, phosphorescent WOLEDs, thermally activated delayed fluorescent WOLEDs, and fluorescent/phosphorescent hybrid WOLEDs) are comprehensively highlighted. Moreover, doping-free WOLEDs are described. Finally, issues and ways to further enhance the performance of WOLEDs are briefly clarified.
Chitosan Nanoparticles as a Mucoadhesive Drug Delivery System for Ocular Administration
Authors: Silva Mariana , Calado Raquel , Marto Joana , Bettencourt Ana , Almeida António , Gonçalves Lídia
Published: December 2017

Pharmaceutical approaches based on nanotechnologies and the development of eye drops composed of the mucoadhesive polymers chitosan and hyaluronic acid are emerging strategies for the efficient treatment of ocular diseases. These innovative nanoparticulate systems aim to increase drugs’ bioavailability at the ocular surface. For the successful development of these systems, the evaluation of mucoahesiveness (the interaction between the ocular delivery system and mucins present on the eye) is of utmost importance. In this context, the aim of the present work was to investigate the mucoadhesivity of a novel nanoparticle eye drop formulation containing an antibiotic (ceftazidime) intended to treat eye infections. Eye drop formulations comprised a polymer (hydroxypropyl) methyl cellulose (HPMC) 0.75% (w/v) in an isotonic solution incorporating chitosan/sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP)-hyaluronic acid-based nanoparticles containing ceftazidime. The viscosity of the nanoparticles, and the gels incorporating the nanoparticles were characterized in contact with mucin at different mass ratios, allowing the calculation of the rheological synergism parameter (∆η). Results showed that at different nanoparticle eye formulation:mucin weight ratios, a minimum in viscosity occurred which resulted in a negative rheological synergism. Additionally, the results highlighted the mucoadhesivity of the novel ocular formulation and its ability to interact with the ocular surface, thus increasing the drug residence time in the eye. Moreover, the in vitro release and permeation studies showed a prolonged drug release profile from the chitosan/TPP-hyaluronic acid nanoparticles gel formulation. Furthermore, the gel formulations were not cytotoxic on ARPE-19 and HEK293T cell lines, evaluated by the metabolic and membrane integrity tests. The formulation was stable and the drug active, as shown by microbiological studies. In conclusion, chitosan/TPP-hyaluronic acid nanoparticle eye drop formulations are a promising platform for ocular drug delivery with enhanced mucoadhesive properties.
Structural Insights into the Cytotoxic Mechanism of Vibrio parahaemolyticus PirAvp and PirBvp Toxins
Authors: Lin Shin-Jen , Hsu Kai-Cheng , Wang Hao-Ching
Published: December 2017

In aquaculture, shrimp farming is a popular field. The benefits of shrimp farming include a relatively short grow-out time, high sale price, and good cost recovery. However, outbreaks of serious diseases inflict serious losses, and acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is an emerging challenge to this industry. In South American white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) and grass shrimp (Penaeus monodon), this disease has a 70–100% mortality. The pathogenic agent of AHPND is a specific strain of Vibrio parahaemolyticus which contains PirAvp and PirBvp toxins encoded in the pVA1 plasmid. PirAvp and PirBvp have been shown to cause the typical histological symptoms of AHPND in infected shrimps, and in this review, we will focus on our structural understanding of these toxins. By analyzing their structures, a possible cytotoxic mechanism, as well as strategies for anti-AHPND drug design, is proposed.
A New Dihydrochromone Dimer and Other Secondary Metabolites from Cultures of the Marine Sponge-Associated Fungi Neosartorya fennelliae KUFA 0811 and Neosartorya tsunodae KUFC 9213
Authors: Kumla Decha , Shine Aung Tin , Buttachon Suradet , Dethoup Tida , Gales Luís , Pereira José , Inácio Ângela , Costa Paulo , Lee Michael , Sekeroglu Nazim , Silva Artur , Pinto Madalena , Kijjoa Anake
Published: December 2017

A previously unreported dihydrochromone dimer, paecilin E (1), was isolated, together with eleven known compounds: β-sitostenone, ergosta-4,6,8 (14), 22-tetraen-3-one, cyathisterone, byssochlamic acid, dehydromevalonic acid lactone, chevalone B, aszonalenin, dankasterone A (2), helvolic acid, secalonic acid A and fellutanine A, from the culture filtrate extract of the marine sponge-associated fungus Neosartorya fennelliae KUFA 0811. Nine previously reported metabolites, including a chromanol derivative (3), (3β, 5α, 22E), 3,5-dihydroxyergosta-7,22-dien-6-one (4), byssochlamic acid, hopan-3β,22-diol, chevalone C, sartorypyrone B, helvolic acid, lumichrome and the alkaloid harmane were isolated from the culture of the marine-sponge associated fungus Neosartorya tsunodae KUFC 9213. Paecilin E (1), dankasterone A (2), a chromanol derivative (3), (3β, 5α, 22E)-3,5-dihydroxyergosta-7,22-dien-6-one (4), hopan-3β,22-diol (5), lumichrome (6), and harmane (7) were tested for their antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative reference and multidrug-resistant strains isolated from the environment. While paecilin E (1) was active against S. aureus ATCC 29213 and E. faecalis ATCC 29212, dankastetrone A (2) was only effective against E. faecalis ATCC 29212 and the multidrug-resistant VRE E. faecalis A5/102. Both compounds neither inhibit biofilm mass production in any of the strains at the concentrations tested nor exhibit synergistic association with antibiotics.
Adaptive Residual Interpolation for Color and Multispectral Image Demosaicking
Authors: Monno Yusuke , Kiku Daisuke , Tanaka Masayuki , Okutomi Masatoshi
Published: December 2017

Color image demosaicking for the Bayer color filter array is an essential image processing operation for acquiring high-quality color images. Recently, residual interpolation (RI)-based algorithms have demonstrated superior demosaicking performance over conventional color difference interpolation-based algorithms. In this paper, we propose adaptive residual interpolation (ARI) that improves existing RI-based algorithms by adaptively combining two RI-based algorithms and selecting a suitable iteration number at each pixel. These are performed based on a unified criterion that evaluates the validity of an RI-based algorithm. Experimental comparisons using standard color image datasets demonstrate that ARI can improve existing RI-based algorithms by more than 0.6 dB in the color peak signal-to-noise ratio and can outperform state-of-the-art algorithms based on training images. We further extend ARI for a multispectral filter array, in which more than three spectral bands are arrayed, and demonstrate that ARI can achieve state-of-the-art performance also for the task of multispectral image demosaicking.
Vapor pressure deficit predicts epiphyte abundance across an elevational gradient in a tropical montane region
Authors: Gotsch Sybil G. , Davidson Kenneth , Murray Jessica G. , Duarte Vanessa J. , Draguljić Danel
Published: December 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Tropical Montane Cloud Forests (TMCFs) are important ecosystems to study and preserve because of their high biodiversity and critical roles in local and regional ecosystem processes. TMCFs may be particularly affected by changes in climate because of the narrow bands of microclimate they occupy and the vulnerability of TMCF species to projected increases in cloud base heights and drought. A comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of TMCFs is lacking and difficult to attain because of variation in topography within and across TMCF sites. This causes large differences in microclimate and forest structure at both large and small scales.

METHODS:

In this study, we estimated the abundance of the entire epiphyte community in the canopy (bryophytes, herbaceous vascular plants, woody epiphytes, and canopy dead organic matter) in six sites. In each of the sites we installed a complete canopy weather station to link epiphyte abundance to a number of microclimatic parameters.

KEY RESULTS:

We found significant differences in epiphyte abundance across the sites; epiphyte abundance increased with elevation and leaf wetness, but decreased as vapor pressure deficit (VPD) increased. Epiphyte abundance had the strongest relationship with VPD; there were differences in VPD that could not be explained by elevation alone.

CONCLUSIONS:

By measuring this proxy of canopy VPD, TMCF researchers will better understand differences in microclimate and plant community composition across TMCF sites. Incorporating such information in comparative studies will allow for more meaningful comparisons across TMCFs and will further conservation and management efforts in this ecosystem.
Synthesis of 1,3-cis-disubstituted sterically encumbered imidazolidinone organocatalysts
Authors: Wallbaum Jan , Werz Daniel B
Published: December 2017

A variety of novel imidazolidinone-based organocatalysts with bulky substituents were synthesized under mild reaction conditions starting from easily accessible substrates. Different natural and unnatural amino acid methyl amides were cyclized with aromatic carbaldehydes to yield two diastereomeric MacMillan-type catalysts. Special emphasis was put on bulky residues such as mesityl and pyrene moieties.
The Pan-Pacific Planet Search. VII. The Most Eccentric Planet Orbiting a Giant Star
Authors: Wittenmyer Robert A. , Jones M. I. , Horner Jonathan , Kane Stephen R. , Marshall J. P. , Mustill A. J. , Jenkins J. S. , Rojas P. A. Pena , Zhao Jinglin , Villaver Eva , Butler R. P. , Clark Jake
Published: December 2017

Radial velocity observations from three instruments reveal the presence of a 4 M
Jup planet candidate orbiting the K giant HD 76920. HD 76920b has an orbital eccentricity of 0.856 ± 0.009, making it the most eccentric planet known to orbit an evolved star. There is no indication that HD 76920 has an unseen binary companion, suggesting a scattering event rather than Kozai oscillations as a probable culprit for the observed eccentricity. The candidate planet currently approaches to about four stellar radii from its host star, and is predicted to be engulfed on a ∼100 Myr timescale due to the combined effects of stellar evolution and tidal interactions.
Hot Jupiters Driven by High-eccentricity Migration in Globular Clusters
Authors: Hamers Adrian S. , Tremaine Scott
Published: December 2017

Hot Jupiters (HJs) are short-period giant planets that are observed around

of solar-type field stars. One possible formation scenario for HJs is high-eccentricity (high-e) migration, in which the planet forms at much larger radii, is excited to high eccentricity by some mechanism, and migrates to its current orbit due to tidal dissipation occurring near periapsis. We consider high-e migration in dense stellar systems such as the cores of globular clusters (GCs), in which encounters with passing stars can excite planets to the high eccentricities needed to initiate migration. We study this process via Monte Carlo simulations of encounters with a star+planet system including the effects of tidal dissipation, using an efficient regularized restricted three-body code. HJs are produced in our simulations over a significant range of the stellar number density

. Assuming the planet is initially on a low-eccentricity orbit with semimajor axis 1 au, for

the encounter rate is too low to induce orbital migration, whereas for

HJ formation is suppressed because the planet is more likely ejected from its host star, tidally disrupted, or transferred to a perturbing star. The fraction of planets that are converted to HJs peaks at

for intermediate number densities of

. Warm Jupiters, giant planets with periods between 10 and 100 days, are produced in our simulations with an efficiency of up to

. Our results suggest that HJs can form through high-e migration induced by stellar encounters in the centers of of dense GCs, but not in their outskirts where the densities are lower.
Mid-infrared Excess from the West Hot Spot of the Radio Galaxy Pictor A Unveiled by WISE
Authors: Isobe Naoki , Koyama Shoko , Kino Motoki , Wada Takehiko , Nakagawa Takao , Matsuhara Hideo , Niinuma Kotaro , Tashiro Makoto
Published: December 2017

Mid-infrared properties are reported of the west hot spot of the radio galaxy Pictor A with the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE). The mid-infrared counterpart to the hot spot, WISE J051926.26−454554.1, is listed in the AllWISE source catalog. The source was detected in all four of the WISE photometric bands. A comparison between the WISE and radio images reinforces the physical association of the WISE source to the hot spot. The WISE flux density of the source was carefully evaluated. A close investigation of the multi-wavelength synchrotron spectral energy distribution from the object reveals a mid-infrared excess at the wavelength of

μm with a statistical significance of

over the simple power-law extrapolation from the synchrotron radio spectrum. The excess is reinforced by single and double cutoff power-law modeling of the radio-to-optical spectral energy distribution. The synchrotron cutoff frequency of the main and excess components was evaluated as

Hz and

Hz, respectively. From the cutoff frequency, the magnetic field of the emission region was constrained as a function of the region size. In order to interpret the excess component, an electron population different from the main one dominating the observed radio spectrum is necessary. The excess emission is proposed to originate in a substructure within the hot spot, in which the magnetic field is a factor of a few stronger than that in the minimum-energy condition. The relation of the mid-infrared excess to the X-ray emission is briefly discussed.
Mg ii Absorption at 2 < Z < 7 with Magellan/Fire. III. Full Statistics of Absorption toward 100 High-redshift QSOs*
Authors: Chen Shi-Fan S. , Simcoe Robert A. , Torrey Paul , Bañados Eduardo , Cooksey Kathy , Cooper Tom , Furesz Gabor , Matejek Michael , Miller Daniel , Turner Monica , Venemans Bram , Decarli Roberto , Farina Emanuele P. , Mazzucchelli Chiara , Walter Fabian
Published: December 2017

We present statistics from a survey of intervening Mg ii absorption toward 100 quasars with emission redshifts between z = 3.55 and z = 7.09. Using infrared spectra from Magellan/FIRE, we detect 280 cosmological Mg ii absorbers, and confirm that the comoving line density of

 Mg ii absorbers does not evolve measurably between z = 0.25 and z = 7. This is consistent with our detection of seven Mg ii systems at

, redshifts not covered in prior searches. Restricting to systems with

Å, there is significant evidence for redshift evolution. These systems roughly double in density between z = 0 and z = 2–3, but decline by an order of magnitude from this peak by

. This evolution mirrors that of the global star formation rate density, potentially reflecting a connection between star formation feedback and the strong Mg ii absorbers. We compared our results to the Illustris cosmological simulation at z = 2–4 by assigning absorption to cataloged dark matter halos and by direct extraction of spectra from the simulation volume. Reproducing our results using the former requires circumgalactic Mg ii envelopes within halos of progressively smaller mass at earlier times. This occurs naturally if we define the lower integration cutoff using SFR rather than mass. Spectra calculated directly from Illustris yield too few strong Mg ii absorbers. This may arise from unresolved phase space structure of circumgalactic gas, particularly from spatially unresolved turbulent or bulk motions. The presence of circumgalactic magnesium at

suggests that enrichment of intra-halo gas may have begun before the presumed host galaxies’ stellar populations were mature and dynamically relaxed.
The Crab Pulsar and Relativistic Wind
Authors: Coroniti F. V.
Published: December 2017

The possibility that the Crab pulsar produces a separated ion-dominated and pair-plasma-dominated, magnetically striped relativistic wind is assessed by rough estimates of the polar cap acceleration of the ion and electron primary beams, the pair production of secondary electrons and positrons, and a simple model of the near-magnetosphere-wind zone. For simplicity, only the orthogonal rotator is considered. Below (above) the rotational equator, ions (electrons) are accelerated in a thin sheath, of order (much less than) the width of the polar cap, to Lorentz factor

. The accelerating parallel electric field is shorted out by ion–photon (curvature synchrotron) pair production. With strong, but fairly reasonable, assumptions, a set of general magnetic geometry relativistic wind equations is derived and shown to reduce to conservation relations that are similar to those of the wind from a magnetic monopole. The strength of the field-aligned currents carried by the primary beams is determined by the wind’s Alfvén critical point condition to be about eight times the Goldreich–Julian value. A simple model for the transition from the dipole region wind to the asymptotic monopole wind zone is developed. The asymptotic ratio of Poynting flux to ion (pair plasma) kinetic energy flux—the wind

-parameter—is found to be of order

. The far wind zone is likely to be complex, with the ion-dominated and pair-plasma-dominated magnetic stripes merging, and the oppositely directed azimuthal magnetic fields annihilating.
Predicting Injury in Professional Baseball Pitchers From Delivery Mechanics: A Statistical Model Using Quantitative Video Analysis
Authors: Sutter E. Grant , Orenduff Justin , Fox Will J. , Myers Joshua , Garrigues Grant E.
Published: December 2017

Baseball pitching imposes significant stress on the upper extremity and can lead to injury. Many studies have attempted to predict injury through pitching mechanics, most of which have used laboratory setups that are often not practical for population-based analysis. This study sought to predict injury risk in professional baseball pitchers using a statistical model based on video analysis evaluating delivery mechanics in a large population. Career data were collected and video analysis was performed on a random sample of former and current professional pitchers. Delivery mechanics were analyzed using 6 categories: mass and momentum, arm swing, posture, position at foot strike, path of arm acceleration, and finish. Effects of demographics and delivery scores on injury were determined using a survival analysis, and model validity was assessed. A total of 449 professional pitchers were analyzed. Risk of injury significantly increased with later birth date, role as reliever vs starter, and previous major injury. Risk of injury significantly decreased with increase in overall delivery score (7.8%) and independently with increase in score of the mass and momentum (16.5%), arm swing (12.0%), and position at foot strike (22.8%) categories. The accuracy of the model in predicting injury was significantly better when including total delivery score compared with demographic factors alone. This study presents a model that evaluates delivery mechanics and predicts injury risk of professional pitchers based on video analysis and demographic variables. This model can be used to assess injury risk of professional pitchers and can be potentially expanded to assess injury risk in pitchers at other levels. [
Orthopedics
. 2018; 41(1):43–53.]
Autonomous Ocean Turbulence Measurements From a Moored Upwardly Rising Profiler Based on a Buoyancy-Driven Mechanism
Authors: Liu Xiuyan , Luan Xin , Daniel Deng Z. , Song Dalei , Zang Shengbo , Yang Hua , Xin Jia , Chen Xue
Published: December 2017

AbstractAn autonomous Moored Reciprocating Vertical Profiler (MRVP) has been developed and tested for measuring ocean turbulence. The MRVP is designed to combine the advantages of long-term moored measurements at specified depths with those of short-term ship-supported continuous
profiling performed at high vertical resolution. The profiler is programmed to repeat vertical motions autonomously along the mooring cable based on a buoyancy-driven mechanism. A sea trial has been conducted in the South China Sea to evaluate the performance of the profiler. The shear probe
data are unreliable when the flow past sensors is not sufficiently greater than an estimate of turbulent velocity. For 65% of the dataset, turbulence measurements are of high quality and the magnitude of dissipation rates is up to O(10−10) W kg−1. To minimize
the contamination induced by instrument vibration and improve the estimation of turbulent kinetic energy terms, an advanced cross-spectrum algorithm is implemented to the measured shear data. The corrected spectra agreed well with the empirical Nasmyth spectrum, and dissipation rates had averagely
decreased a factor of 2 and 8 times lower than the raw spectra. The autonomous MRVP is proven to be a stable platform, and the novel upward measurement provides a new perspective for measuring long-term time series of turbulence mixing.
A Study for Acoustic Target Strength Characteristics of Submarines Using Kirchhoff Approximation
Authors: Kwon Hyun-Wung , Hong Suk-Yoon , Song Jee-Hun
Published: December 2017

AbstractAcoustic target strength (TS) is one of the most important factors for a submarine's stealth ability and survivability. As modern submarines are larger than their predecessors, TS must be reduced to improve stealth ability. In this paper, an analysis program based
on the Kirchhoff approximation in a high-frequency range and developed for predicting TS of submarines is discussed. This program can analyze TS with respect not only to the single bounce effect in the exterior structure but also to the multibounce effect in the exterior and interior structures
through a combination of geometric optics and physical optics methods, anechoic coating effect by using the reflection coefficient, and response time pattern for the detected target. TS calculations of a submarine model with the above effects were simulated by using this developed program,
and its results are discussed.
Perceptions of Families of Intensive Care Unit Patients Regarding Involvement in Delirium-Prevention Activities: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Smithburger Pamela L. , Korenoski Amanda S. , Alexander Sheila A. , Kane-Gill Sandra L.
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Nonpharmacologic delirium-prevention strategies are commonly used in the intensive care unit by bedside nurses. With up to 80% of intensive care unit patients becoming delirious, and lacking treatment options, prevention is key. However, with increasing nurse workloads, innovative delirium-prevention strategies such as involving the patient’s family are needed.

OBJECTIVE

To gain insight into opinions of patients’ families regarding active participation in delirium-prevention activities to inform specific recommendations for involving patients’ families in such activities.

METHODS

Purposeful sampling was used. Patients’ families were contacted to be interviewed about their opinions and attitudes on participation in nonpharmacologic delirium prevention activities while visiting the intensive care unit. An interview guide was created and used to facilitate discussion. Interviews were conducted, transcribed verbatim, and coded by 2 independent coders. Themes were identified, defined, and compared between independent coders; disagreements were resolved by the study team.

RESULTS

After 10 interviews were conducted, thematic saturation occurred. Three major themes emerged: (1) consistent family presence and participation in care, (2) improving ease of interactions between family and patient, and (3) delirium education for families.

CONCLUSION

Family members want to be involved with care and delirium prevention; however, many times they do not know what to do without the direction of a health care provider. Family members would benefit from open dialogue with the bedside nurse to increase family comfort and involvement in care.