bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross‐Linkable and Dual Functional Hybrid Polymeric Electron Transporting Layer for High‐Performance Inverted Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Dong Sheng , Hu Zhicheng , Zhang Kai , Yin Qingwu , Jiang Xiaofang , Huang Fei , Cao Yong
Published: June 2017

A cross‐linkable dual functional polymer hybrid electron transport layer (ETL) is developed by simply adding an amino‐functionalized polymer dopant (PN4N) and a light crosslinker into a commercialized n‐type semiconductor (N2200) matrix. It is found that the resulting hybrid ETL not only has a good solvent resistance, facilitating multilayers device fabrication but also exhibits much improved electron transporting/extraction properties due to the doping between PN4N and N2200. As a result, by using PTB7‐Th:PC71BM blend as an active layer, the inverted device based on the hybrid ETL can yield a prominent power conversion efficiency of around 10.07%. More interestingly, photovoltaic property studies of bilayer devices suggest that the absorption of the hybrid ETL contributes to photocurrent and hence the hybrid ETL simultaneously acts as both cathode interlayer material and an electron acceptor. The resulting inverted polymer solar cells function like a novel device architectures with a combination of a bulk heterojunction device and miniature bilayer devices. This work provides new insights on function of ETLs and may be open up a new direction for the design of new ETL materials and novel device architectures to further improve device performance.
Renewable Molecular Flasks with NADH Models: Combination of Light‐Driven Proton Reduction and Biomimetic Hydrogenation of Benzoxazinones
Authors: Zhao Liang , Wei Jianwei , Lu Junhua , He Cheng , Duan Chunying
Published: June 2017

Using small molecules with defined pockets to catalyze chemical transformations resulted in attractive catalytic syntheses that echo the remarkable properties of enzymes. By modulating the active site of a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) model in a redox‐active molecular flask, we combined biomimetic hydrogenation with in situ regeneration of the active site in a one‐pot transformation using light as a clean energy source. This molecular flask facilitates the encapsulation of benzoxazinones for biomimetic hydrogenation of the substrates within the inner space of the flask using the active sites of the NADH models. The redox‐active metal centers provide an active hydrogen source by light‐driven proton reduction outside the pocket, allowing the in situ regeneration of the NADH models under irradiation. This new synthetic platform, which offers control over the location of the redox events, provides a regenerating system that exhibits high selectivity and efficiency and is extendable to benzoxazinone and quinoxalinone systems.
Citizenship, Community Mental Health, and the Common Good
Authors: Atterbury Kendall , Rowe Michael
Published: June 2017

In this article, we address the issue of community mental health and the common good via an applied theory of citizenship to support the social inclusion, empowerment, and inclusion of persons diagnosed with psychiatric disorders. We begin by discussing citizenship, and the concept of the common good, in regard to historical conceptions of citizenship, including the historical exclusion of women, people of color, persons with mental illness, and others. We then review the development of our citizenship framework in response to the limitations of even the most innovative community mental health interventions, specifically the practice of mental health outreach to persons who are homeless. We review findings from three citizenship research studies – a community‐level intervention, an individual‐ and group‐level intervention, and development of an individual instrument of citizenship – along with brief comments on current citizenship research. We conclude with a discussion of the challenges of realizing both the individual and collective potential of, and challenges to, the citizenship framework in relation to current and future community mental health systems of care. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isolation and Surface Modification of Nanocellulose: Necessity of Enzymes over Chemicals
Authors: Afrin Sadaf , Karim Zoheb
Published: June 2017

Nanocellulose is an emerging sustainable biomaterial with exceptional physicochemical properties. It can be isolated from inexpensive renewable cellulosic biomass. Wood cellulose is the most extensively used biomass for the isolation of nanocellulose. Yet, owing to their hydrophilic nature, their utilization is restricted to applications involving hydrophilic or polar media, which limits their exploitation. With the presence of a large number of chemical functionalities within their structure, these building blocks provide a unique platform for significant surface modification through various methods. On the other hand, significantly used hazardous chemicals make the process environmentally unfriendly. Furthermore, recovery of used chemicals and toxicity of final products are the biggest challenges. To overcome these problems, the enzymatic approach is an emerging trend for isolation and surface modification of nanocellulose. This review assembles current knowledge in the research and development of nanocelluloses from cellulosic biomass and emphasizes the enzymatic routes developed so far for isolation, production, and functionalization.
Ehlers–Danlos hypermobility type in an adult with chronic pain and fatigue: a case study
Authors: Cohen Sarah , Markham Fred
Published: June 2017

Key Clinical Message

Ehlers–Danlos syndrome hypermobility type (EDS‐HT) is an underdiagnosed genetic connective tissue disorder that causes joint hypermobility and widespread pain. We present a patient with the chief complaint of shoulder pain, a long history of widespread joint pain, and associated comorbidities. EDS‐HT provided a unifying diagnosis and direction for management.
What drives outward FDI from emerging economies? The interplay between exploration orientation and home‐country institutional changes
Authors: Park Byung Il , Xiao Shufeng (Simon)
Published: June 2017

We examine how home‐country government involvement and institutional environments interact with the exploration orientation of emerging market firms (EMFs) and how these interrelationships affect the outward foreign direct investment (FDI) behaviours of EMFs. By using a unique data set of Chinese firms, we find that exploration orientation has a positive effect on the outward FDI propensity and outward FDI intensity of Chinese firms. The findings further demonstrate that government support can enhance the independent effects of exploration orientation on outward FDI propensity and outward FDI intensity, but such effects will weaken when a high degree of state ownership exists within these firms. No evidence is found that regional institutional development moderates the effect of exploration orientation on outward FDI behaviours. Copyright © 2017 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatial and temporal trends and flow dynamics of glyphosate and other pesticides within an agricultural watershed in Argentina
Authors: Pérez Débora J. , Okada Elena , De Gerónimo Eduardo , Menone Mirta L. , Aparicio Virginia C. , Costa José L.
Published: June 2017

In the present study, we evaluated the spatial and temporal trends of current-use pesticides in surface water and sediments as well as their relationship with hydrological stream dynamics within the agricultural watershed of El Crespo stream (Buenos Aires Province, Argentina). We sampled 2 contrasting sites: site 1 (upstream), surrounded by agricultural lands, and site 2 (downstream), surrounded by natural grasslands. Most of the applied pesticides (glyphosate, 2,4-D, atrazine, tebuconazole, and imidacloprid) were detected at high frequencies in surface water samples at both sites. However, only glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) were present at high concentrations and had a significant spatial–temporal trend. The highest concentrations were found during spring 2014 at site 1, in association with the intense rains that occurred in that season. The fact that glyphosate and AMPA concentrations were higher than the rest of the studied compounds is closely related to the land use within the watershed, as glyphosate was the most applied herbicide during the fallow period of glyphosate-resistant crops (soybean, maize). The pesticide mixture had a significant spatial–temporal trend, reaching the highest levels during storm flow events in spring 2014. The intensive rains in spring 2014 could be the main factor influencing stream hydrology and pesticide behavior at El Crespo watershed. The estimated annual pesticide losses were 3.11 g/ha at site 1 and 0.72 g/ha at site 2. This result indicates that an attenuation process could be decreasing pesticide loads during downstream transport from site 1 to site 2. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:3206–3216. © 2017 SETAC
Potential impact of nonavalent HPV vaccine in the prevention of high‐grade cervical lesions and cervical cancer in Portugal
Authors: Pista Angela , de Oliveira Carlos Freire , Lopes Carlos , Cunha Maria J. ,   the CLEOPATRE Portugal study group
Published: June 2017

Objective

To estimate the potential impact of the nonavalent HPV vaccine for high‐grade cervical lesions and invasive cervical cancer (ICC) in Portugal.

Methods

The present secondary analysis used data collected in the CLEOPATRE II study on the prevalence of HPV 6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52/58 among female patients aged 20–88 years. The prevalence of HPV types in patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grades 2/3 and ICC was examined.

Results

Data were included from 582 patients. There were 177, 341, and 64 patients with CIN2, CIN3, and ICC, respectively, and 169 (95.5%), 339 (99.4%), and 62 (96.9) of them had HPV infections. Of patients with HPV infections, HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 infections were identified in 150 (88.8%), 329 (97.1%), and 60 (96.8%) patients with CIN2, CIN3, and ICC, respectively. HPV genotypes 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58 were identified in 540 (94.7%) of the patients with HPV infections.

Conclusion

The addition of the five HPV genotypes included in the nonavalent HPV vaccine (HPV 31/33/45/52/58) could result in the new HPV vaccine preventing 94.7% of CIN2/3 and ICC occurrences.
Reduced cell attachment to poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate)‐coated ventricular catheters in vitro
Authors: Hanak Brian W. , Hsieh Chia‐Yun , Donaldson William , Browd Samuel R. , Lau Kenneth K. S. , Shain William
Published: June 2017

The majority of patients with hydrocephalus are dependent on ventriculoperitoneal shunts for diversion of excess cerebrospinal fluid. Unfortunately, these shunts are failure‐prone and over half of all life‐threatening pediatric failures are caused by obstruction of the ventricular catheter by the brain's resident immune cells, reactive microglia and astrocytes. Poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) hydrogels are widely used for biomedical implants. The extreme hydrophilicity of PHEMA confers resistance to protein fouling, making it a strong candidate coating for ventricular catheters. With the advent of initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD), a solvent‐free coating technology that creates a polymer in thin film form on a substrate surface by introducing gaseous reactant species into a vacuum reactor, it is now possible to apply uniform polymer coatings on complex three‐dimensional substrate surfaces. iCVD was utilized to coat commercially available ventricular catheters with PHEMA. The chemical structure was confirmed on catheter surfaces using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. PHEMA coating morphology was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Testing PHEMA‐coated catheters against uncoated clinical‐grade catheters in an in vitro hydrocephalus catheter bioreactor containing co‐cultured astrocytes and microglia revealed significant reductions in cell attachment to PHEMA‐coated catheters at both 17‐day and 6‐week time points. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1268–1279, 2018.
One‐Pot Synthesis of 7‐chloro‐2‐arylthieno[3,2‐b]pyridin‐3‐ols and Their Derivatization to the Corresponding Arylamino, Arylthio, and Aryloxy Derivatives
Authors: Puvvala Srinu , Jadhav Vinod D. , Narkhede Umesh C. , Farooq Sheikh M. , Reddy Ch.Venkataramana
Published: June 2017

A simple and efficient domino reaction for synthesis of 7‐chloro‐2‐arylthieno[3,2‐b]pyridin‐3‐ols (3) followed by derivatization into their corresponding aminoaryl (7a–7j), aryloxy (9a–9c), and thioaryloxy derivatives (8a–8k)is presented. The synthesis includes thioalkylation on 3‐position of methyl 4‐chloropicolinate (1) followed by in situ cyclization to give 7‐chloro‐2‐arylthieno[3,2‐b]pyridin‐3‐ols (3). The substitution of the chloro group with amines, phenols and thiophenols afforded the corresponding derivatives.
Adaptive Mechanisms of Soybean Grown on Salt‐Affected Soils
Authors: Cao Dong , Li Yuanyuan , Liu Baohui , Kong Fanjiang , Tran Lam‐Son Phan
Published: June 2017

Soybean (Glycine max) is an economically important pulse crop for livestock feed, human consumption and industrial use as a source for production of biodiesel. However, soybean yield is detrimentally affected by soil salinity around the world. To cope with soil salinization, in addition to soil remediation, approaches used in genetically modifying soybean genotypes to increase their productivity under saline conditions are also of importance. Thus, it is crucial to unravel the mechanisms controlling soybean responses to soil salinity in order to improve soybean performance with high salinity tolerance. Knowledge of the regulatory network for salt tolerance in model plants, includingArabidopsis, and the publically available soybean genome sequence has accelerated identification and functional analyses of genes regulating soybean responses to high salinity. This review presents an update of recent works on genetic studies of salt tolerance and the mechanisms regulating soybean responses and tolerance to soil salinity. We also discuss the effort and progress that have been made in the last decade toward developing high salt‐tolerant soybean varieties with improved productivity. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crustacean zooplankton release copious amounts of dissolved organic matter as taurine in the ocean
Authors: Clifford Elisabeth L. , Hansell Dennis A. , Varela Marta M. , Nieto‐Cid Mar , Herndl Gerhard J. , Sintes Eva
Published: June 2017

Taurine (Tau), an amino acid‐like compound, is present in almost all marine metazoans including crustacean zooplankton. It plays an important physiological role in these organisms and is released into the ambient water throughout their life cycle. However, limited information is available on the release rates by marine organisms, the concentrations and turnover of Tau in the ocean. We determined dissolved free Tau concentrations throughout the water column and its release by abundant crustacean mesozooplankton at two open ocean sites (Gulf of Alaska and North Atlantic). At both locations, the concentrations of dissolved free Tau were in the low nM range (up to 15.7 nM) in epipelagic waters, declining sharply in the mesopelagic to about 0.2 nM and remaining fairly stable throughout the bathypelagic waters. Pacific amphipod–copepod assemblages exhibited lower dissolved free Tau release rates per unit biomass (0.8 ± 0.4 μmol g−1 C‐biomass h−1) than Atlantic copepods (ranging between 1.3 ± 0.4 μmol g−1 C‐biomass h−1 and 9.5 ± 2.1 μmol g−1 C‐biomass h−1), in agreement with the well‐documented inverse relationship between biomass‐normalized excretion rates and body size. Our results indicate that crustacean zooplankton might contribute significantly to the dissolved organic matter flux in marine ecosystems via dissolved free Tau release. Based on the release rates and assuming steady state dissolved free Tau concentrations, turnover times of dissolved free Tau range from 0.05 d to 2.3 d in the upper water column and are therefore similar to those of dissolved free amino acids. This rapid turnover indicates that dissolved free Tau is efficiently consumed in oceanic waters, most likely by heterotrophic bacteria.
Prevalence and orthopedic management of foot and ankle deformities in Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease
Authors: Laurá Matilde , Singh Dishan , Ramdharry Gita , Morrow Jasper , Skorupinska Mariola , Pareyson Davide , Burns Joshua , Lewis Richard A. , Scherer Steven S. , Herrmann David N. , Cullen Nicholas , Bradish Christopher , Gaiani Luca , Martinelli Nicolò , Gibbons Paul , Pfeffer Glenn , Phisitkul Phinit , Wapner Keith , Sanders James , Flemister Sam , Shy Michael E. , Reilly Mary M. ,   on behalf of the Inherited Neuropathies Consortium
Published: June 2017

Introduction: Foot deformities are frequent complications in Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT) patients, often requiring orthopedic surgery. However, there are no prospective, randomized studies on surgical management, and there is variation in the approaches among centers both within and between countries. Methods: In this study we assessed the frequency of foot deformities and surgery among patients recruited into the Inherited Neuropathies Consortium (INC). We also designed a survey addressed to orthopedic surgeons at INC centers to determine whether surgical approaches to orthopedic complications in CMT are variable. Results: Foot deformities were reported in 71% of CMT patients; 30% of the patients had surgery. Survey questions were answered by 16 surgeons working in different specialized centers. Most of the respondents were foot and ankle surgeons. There was marked variation in surgical management. Discussion: Our findings confirm that the approaches to orthopedic management of CMT are varied. We identify areas that require further research. Muscle Nerve 57: 255–259, 2018
Open‐hole tensile behaviour and failure prediction of carbon fibre reinforced aluminium laminates
Authors: Lin Yuan , Huang Yaxin , Huang Teng , Yin Zhuchen
Published: June 2017

In this article, the open‐hole tensile behaviour of carbon fibre reinforced aluminium laminates (CARALL) were investigated experimentally and numerically. Two specimens with different fibre orientations ([0°/90°/0°] and [45°/0°/−45°]), consisting of T700 carbon fibre/epoxy prepreg and 2024‐T3 aluminium with a 3/2 configuration, were manufactured by the autoclave process. Damage initiation and progression were considered in modelling the CFRP layers and interface bonding layers. Isotropic hardening behaviour was defined for aluminium layers. A major contribution of this study was to reveal the failure mechanisms and failure sequences of notched CARALL with different fibre orientations by numerical method. Damage evolution processes of the two specimens were compared. Effects of hole sizes and laminate configurations (stacking sequences & stacking structures) on both the specimens were further evaluated based on simulation. Point stress failure criterion and Wu's modified point stress failure criterion were applied in comparison with the numerical method as well. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4123–4138, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mass spectrometry‐based protein analysis to unravel the tissue pathophysiology in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Carr Stephanie J. , Zahedi René P. , Lochmüller Hanns , Roos Andreas
Published: June 2017

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic muscle wasting condition with limited treatment options available and is caused by the lack of dystrophin. However, pathophysiology of different tissues is variable showing different histological and molecular signatures. Recently, a number of studies have employed gel‐free proteomic approaches to unveil the molecular pathophysiology in terms of tissue‐specific proteome changes in dystrophin deficiency. The authors analyzed studies in models of dystrophin deficiency and patients both from the published literature. The authors created a database containing all of the significantly differentially expressed proteins. By the integration of data from nine studies, the authors have identified 31 proteins which are commonly affected in different tissues by dystrophin deficiency. These proteins represent pathways involved in the maintenance of the actin cytoskeleton and those involved in cellular energy metabolism among others. Also represented is glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), often used as a loading control in protein assays, it appears to be highly variable, and should be replaced by other controls. The same intersection of data was performed using studies of the blood and urine of Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients and/or animal models and identified 33 proteins that are commonly differentially expressed. These proteins may themselves be novel therapeutic targets biomarkers that could monitor disease progression.
Valley dynamics of excitons in monolayer dichalcogenides
Authors: Plechinger Gerd , Nagler Philipp , Arora Ashish , Schmidt Robert , Chernikov Alexey , Lupton John , Bratschitsch Rudolf , Schüller Christian , Korn Tobias
Published: June 2017

Monolayer transition‐metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have recently emerged as possible candidates for valleytronic applications, as the spin and valley pseudospin are directly coupled and stabilized by a large spin splitting. In these semiconducting materials, optically excited electron–hole pairs form tightly Coulomb‐bound excitons with large binding energies. The selection rules for excitonic transitions allow for direct optical generation of a valley‐polarized exciton population using resonant excitation. Here, we investigate the exciton valley dynamics in monolayers of three different TMDCs by means of time‐resolved Kerr rotation at low temperatures. We observe pronounced differences in the valley dynamics of tungsten‐ and molybdenum‐based TMDCs, which are directly related to the opposite order of the conduction‐band spin splitting in these materials.
Improvement of Conversion Efficiency of Silicon Solar Cells by Submicron‐Textured Rear Reflector Obtained by Metal‐Assisted Chemical Etching
Authors: Irishika Daichi , Onitsuka Yuya , Imamura Kentaro , Kobayashi Hikaru
Published: June 2017

A 19.8% conversion efficiency has been achieved by formation of a nanocrystalline Si layer on the front surface and a submicron‐textured reflector on the rear surface of monocrystalline Si solar cells. The nanocrystalline Si layer with a thickness of ∼200 nm formed by the surface structure chemical transfer (SSCT) method significantly decreases the front surface reflectance to less than 3%, while the submicron‐textured rear surface formed by the metal‐assisted chemical etching (MACE) method enhances light absorption inside Si. Both the reaction rates of the SSCT and MACE methods do not depend on crystal orientations, and therefore, these methods are applicable to polycrystalline Si solar cells. Reflectance spectra in the wavelength region longer than 950 nm of the nanocrystalline Si layer/Si structure show that the submicron‐textured reflector has excellent light trapping effect equivalent to the pyramidal textured reflector. Due to this light trapping effect, the short‐circuit photocurrent density of the nanocrystalline Si solar cells has been improved to 41.6 mA cm−2.
Free vibration analysis of nanocomposite sandwich plates reinforced with CNT aggregates
Authors: Moradi‐Dastjerdi Rasool , Malek‐Mohammadi Hossein , Momeni‐Khabisi Hamed
Published: June 2017

In this article, free vibration analysis of simply supported sandwich plates with a flexible core and two functionally graded nanocomposite face sheets resting on two‐parameter elastic foundation is carried out using Navier's solution. The nanocomposite face sheets are reinforced by randomly oriented and aggregated carbon nanotube (CNT). The material properties of the nanocomposites plates are graded along the thickness and are estimated though the Eshelby–Mori–Tanaka approach. In the proposed theory, 3‐D elasticity theory and first order shear deformation theory are used for core and face sheets, respectively. Also, Hamilton's variational principle is used to derive the equations of motion.
Asymptotic behavior of non‐uniform Timoshenko beam acting on shear force with feedback controller
Authors: Aouadi Moncef , Boulehmi Kaouther
Published: June 2017

The spectrum and asymptotic behavior of a non‐uniform Timoshenko beam with second sound is considered in this paper. In particular, we consider a new thermoelastic coupling on shear force. The velocity of the beam at one end is observed. A feedback controller is designed to stabilize the beam. Firstly, we prove the well‐posedness of the considered problem and that the operator has compact resolvent and generates a semigroup in an appropriate space. We also show that there is a sequence of the generalized eigenvectors of the operator that forms a Riesz basis. Then based on the distribution of the spectrum, they prove that the corresponding semigroup decays exponentially independently of the wave speeds of propagation. However, it no longer decays exponentially if there is no feedback controller. As application, we consider the uniform problem to improve some already existing results and to find the best choice of the feedback ensuring the exponential stability.
Synergistic Interaction between Nonionic Octylphenol Polyoxyethylene Ethers and Effect of Hydrophilic Chain
Authors: Huang Jing , Ren Zhao Hua
Published: June 2017

The micellization of binary mixture composed of nonionic octylphenol polyoxyethylene ether (OP‐n, n is the average number of oxyethylene unit) and its homologues, as well as the effect of hydrophilic chain were investigated. The tensiometry was adopted to determine the critical micelle concentration of binary surfactant mixture. According to the regular solution theory, some thermodynamic models were used to predict the parameters of micellization and the thermodynamic parameters. For all the three binary mixtures of nonionic/nonionic surfactants, each of which shows a nonideal mixing and can behave synergistically in aqueous solution. For both the mixture of OP‐10/OP‐7 and the mixture of OP‐10/OP‐4, the positive deviation of the mole fraction of surfactant in mixed micelle from its ideal value coexists with the negative deviation in the entire range of compositions in aqueous solution, while for the mixture of OP‐7/OP‐4, it only shows a positive deviation. Thermodynamic data indicate that for all the three binary surfactant mixtures, the process of micellization is entropically spontaneous, and the change of hydrophilic chain results in the difference in the stability of mixed micelle. The results can be explained by the steric effect, the hydrogen bonding and the hydration. The work helps with understanding the interaction between molecules and properties for some industrial products constituted by nonionic surfactant and its homologues.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Al-Khabori Murtadha , Al-Huneini Mohammed
Published: June 2017

The Sultanate of Oman is one of the Arabian Gulf countries with a total population of 4,414,051 as of mid 2016, of which 2,427,825 are Omanis. The gross national income per capita was 7327.7 RO (Omani rial; equivalent to US$19,033) in 2014. There are two hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) centers in Oman: the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH; allogeneic and autologous) and the Royal Hospital (RH; autologous). HSCT activity in Oman started in 1995 at the SQUH center, which had only one bed, and four cases were performed in that year. The number of allogeneic HSCTs at the SQUH ranged between four and 29 cases per year, of which malignancy was the main indication for transplantation (47%). Most of the transplants were performed from identical sibling donor. T-deplete haploidentical and recently T-replete haploidentical HSCT were also performed at the SQUH center. In the allogeneic HSCT cohort transplanted at the SQUH, the risk of acute graft-versus-host disease (Grades II-IV) was 18%, whereas the risk of extensive chronic graft-versus-host disease was 8%. The HSCT unit at the RH, which started in 2014, performs autologous HSCT procedures only. The number of autologous HSCT cases at the RH ranged between three and 16 cases per year. Limited bed availability is a frequent obstacle to HSCT in Oman. Construction of a much larger national HSCT center is about to be completed, which will likely improve access to transplant services in Oman.
Food deprivation in F0 generation and hypercaloric diet in F1 generation reduce F2 generation astrogliosis in several brain areas after immune challenge
Authors: Ogassawara T.B. , Joaquim A. , Coelho C.P. , Bernardi M.M. , Teodorov E. , Martins M.F.M. , Kirsten T.B. , Bonamin L.V. , Dossa P.D. , Viebig L.B. , Bondan E.F.
Published: June 2017

Aims

The effects of maternal food restriction during gestation in F0 generation followed by hypercaloric diet (HD) during puberty in F1 generation (F1HD) were investigated on astrocyte behavior of F2 generation. Also, the astrocyte behavior, after an immune challenge, was examined by the immunohistochemical expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in several brain areas.

Methods

The body weight gain (BW) during development and in postnatal day (PND) 90–95, the retroperitoneal fat weight (RPF), and the size of larger and smaller adipocytes in the F1 generation were assessed to observe the effects of HD in female rats. The BW, RPF weight and size of smaller and larger adipocytes was also measured to evaluate the transgenerational effects of F0 and F1 diets on F2 generation, treated or not with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Key findings

The F1HD group exhibited a higher BW gain than the F1 treated with normocaloric diet (ND, group F1ND), from weaning to PND65. In the frontal/parietal cortex, nucleus accumbens, hypothalamic arcuate/periventricular nuclei, molecular/granular layers of the cerebellum areas, excepting the pons, GFAP expression was greater in F1HD group relative to F1ND group. A reduced GFAP expression was observed in both groups born from F1 generation fed with HD (groups F2HDS and F2HDLPS) in relation to F2 generation born from dams fed with ND (groups F2NDS and F2NDLPS), independently of LPS challenge.

Significance

These data show an attenuation of LPS effect on GFAP expression, probably by a transgenerational effect of both maternal food deprivation in F0 generation and HD in F1 generation.
Basket Composition and Choice among Direct Channels: A Latent State Model of Shopping Costs
Authors: Kalyanam Kirthi , Lenk Peter , Rhee Eddie
Published: June 2017

Shoppers of multi-channel retailers often place orders using different channels on different shopping occasions. The differential use of channels is related to both basket composition and channel characteristics, such as the ability of the channel to provide additional information that resolves uncertainty about the purchase. In this paper, we examine the impact of basket composition on the choice among direct channels. We develop a two-stage, shopping cost model with two, latent states. Given a shopping basket, the shopper first decides if she needs additional information about items in the basket. If she is uncertain about the items in the basket meeting her needs, she uses an information rich channel, such as the retailer's website or call center, and risk reduction costs become salient in addition to the other shopping costs. If she does not require additional information, she places her order by choosing among all available channels, and she may incur a welfare loss from making a purchase that does not optimally meet her needs. We operationalize welfare loss with Shannon information and various metrics based on purchase history.

Our empirical setting is a data set from a catalog retailer that offers multiple direct channels. Our estimates show that basket composition impacts channel choice. Large baskets shift to the Internet channel, suggesting that the Internet channel has lower ordering costs. High-risk baskets shift to call centers and this suggests that the call center has lower risk reduction costs. Collectively these estimates provide evidence for the notion of channel specialization—some channels are better at addressing certain shopping costs compared to others. Our estimates also show that electronic self-service channels have high initial access costs and a significant learning curve compared to the call center suggesting that these channels might be better suited to heavy users. We use the estimated model to quantify the value of channels, to identify categories that need risk reduction, and to segment and target shoppers for Internet ordering based on basket size and the potential to accumulate experience.
The Provision of Prescription-Only Medicines for Use on UK-based Overseas Expeditions
Authors: Moore James K. , Ladbrook Matthew , Goodyer Larry , Dallimore Jon
Published: June 2017

Expedition teams without accompanying medical professionals traveling overseas from the UK frequently carry medical kits containing prescription-only medicines (POMs). Access to safe, basic POMs whilst on expedition is important, as the quality and availability of medicines in-country may not be acceptable, and delay in treatment may be hazardous. At present, there is no published guidance relating to drug acquisition and administration in these situations. In the UK, a number of different practices are currently in use, with uncertainty and medicolegal concerns currently hampering safe and efficient provision of POMs on overseas expeditions. A guideline is proposed for the management of prescription-only medications in an expedition setting.
Glycemic Control and Muscle Damage in 3 Athletes With Type 1 Diabetes During a Successful Performance in a Relay Ultramarathon: A Case Report
Authors: Belli Taisa , de Macedo Denise V. , Scariot Pedro P.M. , de Araújo Gustavo G. , dos Reis Ivan G.M. , Lazarim Fernanda L. , Nunes Lázaro A.S. , Brenzikofer René , Gobatto Claudio A.
Published: June 2017

Ultramarathon races are fairly demanding and impose substantial physiological stress on healthy athletes. These competitions may thus be considerably more challenging for individuals with diabetes. This case study aims to describe glycemic control, muscle damage, inflammation, and renal function in 3 athletes with type 1 diabetes during a successful performance in a relay ultramarathon. The team completed the race in 29 hours and 28 minutes, earning third place. The total distance covered by each athlete was 68.7, 84.5, and 65.1 km. Most blood glucose levels showed that athletes were in a zone where it was safe to exercise (90–250 mg/dL or 5.0–13.9 mmol/L). Creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, and aspartate aminotransferase serum levels increased 1.2- to 50.7-fold prerace to postrace, and were higher than the reference ranges for all the athletes postrace. Blood leukocytes, neutrophils, and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) increased 1.6- to 52-fold prerace to postrace and were higher than the reference ranges for 2 athletes after the race. Serum creatinine increased 1.2-fold prerace to postrace for all the athletes but did not meet the risk criteria for acute kidney injury. In conclusion, our main findings show evidence of satisfactory glycemic control in athletes with type 1 diabetes during a relay ultramarathon. Moreover, elevation of muscle damage and inflammatory biomarkers occurred without affecting renal function and challenging the maintenance of blood glucose among athletes. These findings are novel and provide an initial understanding of the physiological responses in athletes with type 1 diabetes during ultramarathon races.
The impact of opioid medications on subsequent fractures in discharged emergency department patients with peripheral vertigo
Authors: Grewal Keerat , Austin Peter C. , Kapral Moira K. , Lu Hong , Atzema Clare L.
Published: June 2017

Background

Vertigo is common in the emergency department (ED). Most aetiologies are peripheral and do not require hospitalization, but many patients still fear falling. Some patients may be taking opioid analgesic medications (for other reasons); the risk of falls leading to fractures among patients with vertigo could be potentiated by the simultaneous use of opioids.

Objectives

To examine the risk of fractures in discharged ED patients with peripheral vertigo who were being prescribed opioids during the same time period.

Methods

Linked administrative databases from Ontario were used to compare discharged ED patients aged ≥65 with peripheral vertigo to patients with urinary tract infection (UTI) from 2006 to 2011. We used Cox regression analysis with an interaction term to estimate the modifying effect of an opioid prescription on the hazard of fracture within 90 days.

Results

There were 13,012 patients with a peripheral vertigo syndrome and 76,885 with a UTI. Thirteen percent of the vertigo cohort and 25% of the UTI cohort had access to a filled opioid prescription. Compared to vertigo patients who did not fill an opioid prescription, the adjusted hazard of fracture among vertigo patients who did fill a prescription was 3.59 (95% CI 1.97–6.13). Among UTI patients who filled an opioid prescription the hazard ratio was 1.68 (95% CI 1.43–1.97) compared to UTI patients who did not.

Conclusions

Patients discharged from the ED with peripheral vertigo who were also being prescribed opioids had a higher hazard of subsequent fracture compared to those who were not, and the effect was much greater than among UTI patients. These results suggest that in the acutely vertiginous older patient, opioid analgesic medications should be modified, where possible.
Opening of KATP Channel Regulates Tonic Currents From Pyramidal Neurons in Rat Brain
Authors: Li Zhongxia , Wang Jiangping , Yu Huimin , Jiang Kewen
Published: June 2017

Background: ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels couple metabolic state to cellular excitability. Activation of neuronal and astrocytic mitochondrial KATP (mitoKATP) channels regulates a variety of neuronal functions. However, less is known about the impact of mitoKATP on tonic γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) inhibition. Tonic GABA inhibition is mediated by the binding of ambient GABA on extrasynaptic GABA A-type receptors (GABAARs) and is involved in regulating neuronal excitability. Methods: We determined the impact of activation of KATP channels with diazoxide (DIZ) on tonic inhibition and recorded tonic current from rat cortical layer 5 pyramidal cells by patch-clamp recordings. Results: We found that neonatal tonic current increased with an increase in GABA concentration, which was partially mediated by the GABA A-type receptor (GABAAR) α5, and likely the δ subunits. Activation of KATP channels resulted in decreased tonic current in newborns, but there was increased tonic current during the second postnatal week. Conclusions: These findings suggest that activation of KATP channels with DIZ regulates GABAergic transmission in neocortical pyramidal cells during development.
Variationist sociolinguistics and corpus-based variationist linguistics: overlap and cross-pollination potential
Authors: Szmrecsanyi Benedikt
Published: June 2017

The paper surveys overlap between corpus linguistics and variationist sociolinguistics. Corpus linguistics is customarily defined as a methodology that bases claims about language on usage patterns in collections of naturalistic, authentic speech or text. Because this is what is typically done in variationist sociolinguistics work, I argue that variationist sociolinguists are by definition corpus linguists, though of course the reverse is not true: the variationist method entails more than merely analyzing usage data, and not all corpus analysts are interested in variation. But that being said, a considerable and arguably increasing number of corpus linguists not formally trained in variationist sociolinguistics are explicitly concerned with variation and engage in what I callcorpus-based variationist linguistics(CVL). I first discuss what unites or divides work in CVL and in variationist sociolinguistics. In a plea to cross subdisciplinary boundaries, I subsequently identify three research areas where variationist sociolinguists may draw inspiration from work in CVL: conducting multi-variable research, paying more attention to probabilistic grammars, and taking more seriously the register-sensitivity of variation patterns.
Quasi-symmetric conjugacy for circle maps with a flat interval
Authors: PALMISANO LIVIANA
Published: June 2017

In this paper we study quasi-symmetric conjugations of ${\mathcal{C}}^{2}$ weakly order-preserving circle maps with a flat interval. Under the assumption that the maps have the same rotation number of bounded type and that bounded geometry holds, we construct a quasi-symmetric conjugation between their non-wandering sets. Further, this conjugation is extended to a quasi-symmetric circle homeomorphism. Our proof techniques hinge on real-dynamic methods, allowing us to construct the conjugation under general and natural assumptions.
Badly approximable points on self-affine sponges and the lower Assouad dimension
Authors: DAS TUSHAR , FISHMAN LIOR , SIMMONS DAVID , URBAŃSKI MARIUSZ
Published: June 2017

We highlight a connection between Diophantine approximation and the lower Assouad dimension by using information about the latter to show that the Hausdorff dimension of the set of badly approximable points that lie in certain non-conformal fractals, known as self-affine sponges, is bounded below by the dynamical dimension of these fractals. For self-affine sponges with equal Hausdorff and dynamical dimensions, the set of badly approximable points has full Hausdorff dimension in the sponge. Our results, which are the first to advance beyond the conformal setting, encompass both the case of Sierpiński sponges/carpets (also known as Bedford–McMullen sponges/carpets) and the case of Barański carpets. We use the fact that the lower Assouad dimension of a hyperplane diffuse set constitutes a lower bound for the Hausdorff dimension of the set of badly approximable points in that set.
Benign positional vertigo and endolymphatic hydrops: what is the connection?
Authors: Jahn A F
Published: June 2017

Background:

Although benign paroxysmal positional vertigo and endolymphatic hydrops are considered to be distinct diagnoses, a minority of vertiginous patients exhibit features of both conditions. This coincidence has been reported previously in the literature, and is reviewed here in terms of possible aetiology.

Results and conclusion:

A new hypothesis to account for both conditions is offered, implicating free-floating degenerating debris from the otolithic apparatus. It is postulated that the gelatinous/proteinaceous component may account for an osmotically induced hydrops, while the calcified fragments may induce positional vertigo.
Supporting in an existential crisis: A mixed-methods evaluation of a training model in palliative care
Authors: Sand Lisa , Olsson Mariann , Strang Peter
Published: June 2017

Background:

Palliative care staff often report that they lack the skills and confidence to provide support during an existential crisis. Consequently, there is a definite need for a training program in this area.

Objective:

Our aim was to investigate whether a training model could give palliative care staff increased knowledge, awareness, and preparedness—all useful tools for providing support.

Methods:

A mixed-methods research design was used. Data were collected in four hospital-based palliative homecare teams in the Stockholm area. In total, 34 staff participated, representing different palliative care team professions. Before and after the intervention, a questionnaire with a 9-point Likert-type scale was completed (n = 34). Qualitative focus group discussions were conducted a month after the intervention (25 participants). These were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis with a manifest focus.

Results:

In the quantitative part of our study, the participants showed significantly increased perceived knowledge, awareness, and preparedness in every aspect (p < 0.001 for all items). The focus group discussions revealed a process that made it possible to apply new knowledge and insight. The process began with theoretical knowledge and, through care-related reflection and self-reflection, the knowledge base gradually developed and provided useful skills and increased job satisfaction.

Significance of results:

The team-based “TrainingModel Sand/TER” can be performed without excessive effort and contribute to improved competence in providing support during an existential crisis. It is particularly useful for staff working in clinical palliative care.
How should we model property? Thinking with my critics
Authors: ARRUÑADA BENITO
Published: June 2017

Inspired by comments made by Allen (2017), Lueck (2017), Ménard (2017) and Smith (2017), this response clarifies and deepens the analysis in Arruñada (2017a). Its main argument is that to deal with the complexity of property we must abstract secondary elements, such as the physical dimensions of some types of assets, and focus on the interaction between transactions. This sequential-exchange framework captures the main problem of property in the current environment of impersonal markets. It also provides criteria to compare private and public ordering, as well as to organize public solutions that enable new forms of private ordering. The analysis applies the lessons in Coase (1960) to property by not only comparing realities but also maintaining his separate definition of property rights and transaction costs. However, it replaces his contractual, single-exchange, framework for one in which contracts interact, causing exchange externalities.
Plastid thylakoid architecture optimizes photosynthesis in diatoms
Authors: Flori Serena , Jouneau Pierre-Henri , Bailleul Benjamin , Gallet Benoit , Estrozi Leandro F , Moriscot Christine , Bastien Olivier , Eicke Simona , Schober Alexander , Bártulos Carolina Río , Maréchal Eric , Kroth Peter G , Petroutsos Dimitris , Zeeman Samuel , Breyton Cécile , Schoehn Guy , Falconet Denis , Finazzi Giovanni
Published: June 2017

Photosynthesis is a unique process that allows independent colonization of the land by plants and of the oceans by phytoplankton. Although the photosynthesis process is well understood in plants, we are still unlocking the mechanisms evolved by phytoplankton to achieve extremely efficient photosynthesis. Here, we combine biochemical, structural and in vivo physiological studies to unravel the structure of the plastid in diatoms, prominent marine eukaryotes. Biochemical and immunolocalization analyses reveal segregation of photosynthetic complexes in the loosely stacked thylakoid membranes typical of diatoms. Separation of photosystems within subdomains minimizes their physical contacts, as required for improved light utilization. Chloroplast 3D reconstruction and in vivo spectroscopy show that these subdomains are interconnected, ensuring fast equilibration of electron carriers for efficient optimum photosynthesis. Thus, diatoms and plants have converged towards a similar functional distribution of the photosystems although via different thylakoid architectures, which likely evolved independently in the land and the ocean.
Correction: Corrigendum: Ruthenium-cobalt nanoalloys encapsulated in nitrogen-doped graphene as active electrocatalysts for producing hydrogen in alkaline media
Authors: Su Jianwei , Yang Yang , Xia Guoliang , Chen Jitang , Jiang Peng , Chen Qianwang
Published: June 2017

Nature Communications 8: Article number: 14969 (2017); Published: 25 April 2017; Updated: 20 June 2017 The legend to Fig. 8 of this Article contains a typographical error. The first sentence of this legend should read ‘(a) Co and (b) Ru3Co models.’ The Results section contains two typographical errors.