bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ICRF wave field measurements in the presence of scrape off layer turbulence on the ASDEX Upgrade tokamak (invited)
Authors: Ochoukov R. , Bobkov V. , Faugel H. , Fünfgelder H. , Jacquot J. , Noterdaeme J.-M. , Suárez López G. ,   ASDEX Upgrade Team
Published: June 2017

A new array of B-dot probes was installed on ASDEX Upgrade. The purpose of the new diagnostic is to study Ion Cyclotron Range-off Frequencies (ICRF) wave field distributions in the evanescent scrape-off layer (SOL) plasma region on the low field side of ASDEX Upgrade. The vacuum measurements (no gas, BT = 0 T) reveal ICRF wave field measurements consistent with the profiles expected from the newly installed 3-strap ICRF antennas outside the antenna box: the shape of the toroidal distribution of both the amplitude and the phase is the same for the case of only the central straps being active, as for the case of only the side straps being active. These profiles become strongly modified during plasma operations. The modifications can be separated into two types: “Inter-edge localized mode (ELM)” and “During-ELM” periods. The phase distribution of the ICRF wave fields remains well-defined during the Inter-ELM period; however, it becomes more spread out over the entire 360° range during ELMs. The observed modulations cannot be explained by the observed changes in the ICRF power, as monitored in the transmission line. However, they are consistent with ICRF coupling changes introduced by plasma filaments: the plasma density perturbations due to the filaments are high enough to change the nature of the fast ICRF wave field from evanescent to propagating. The coverage of the present diagnostic is being expanded to include both the low field side and the high field side probes. Additionally, a manipulator probe head is being developed to measure ICRF wave field radial profiles across the SOL region.
Accurate excitation energies of molecules and oligomers from a semilocal density functional
Authors: Tian Guocai , Mo Yuxiang , Tao Jianmin
Published: June 2017

Excitation energy plays an important role in energy conversion, biological processes, and optical devices. In this work, we apply the Tao-Mo (TM) nonempirical meta-generalized gradient approximation and the combination TMTPSS (TMx + TPSSc), with TPSSc being the correlation part of the original TPSS (Tao-Perdew-Staroverov-Scuseria) to study excitation energies of small molecules and oligomers. Our test set consists of 17 molecules with 134 total excited states, including singlet, triplet, valence, and Rydberg excited states. Our calculation shows that both the TMTPSS and TM functionals yield good overall performance, with mean absolute errors (MAEs) of 0.37 eV and 0.42 eV, respectively, outperforming commonly used semilocal functionals LSDA (MAE = 0.55 eV), PBE (MAE = 0.58 eV), and TPSS (MAE = 0.47 eV). In particular, TMTPSS can yield nearly the same accuracy of B3LYP (MAE = 0.36 eV), with lower computational cost. The accuracy for semilocal density functional theory continues to hold for conjugated oligomers, but they become less accurate than hybrid functionals, due to the insufficient nonlocality.
Exciton center-of-mass localization and dielectric environment effect in monolayer WS2
Authors: Hichri Aïda , Ben Amara Imen , Ayari Sabrine , Jaziri Sihem
Published: June 2017

The ultrathin transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have emerged as promising materials for various applications using two dimensional semiconductors. They have attracted increasing attention due to their unique optical properties originate from neutral and charged excitons. In this paper, we study the strong localization of exciton center-of-mass motion within random potential fluctuations caused by the monolayer defects. Here, we report negatively charged exciton formation in monolayer TMDs, notably tungsten disulfide WS2. Our theory is based on an effective mass model of neutral and charged excitons, parameterized by ab-initio calculations. Taking into the account the strong correlation between the monolayer WS2 and the surrounding dielectric environment, our theoretical results are in good agreement with one-photon photoluminescence (PL) and reflectivity measurements. We also show that the exciton state with p-symmetry, experimentally observed by two-photon PL emission, is energetically below the 2s-state. We use the equilibrium mass action law, to quantify the relative weight of exciton and trion PL. We show that exciton and trion emission can be tuned and controlled by external parameters like temperature, pumping, and injection electrons. Finally, in comparison with experimental measurements, we show that exciton emission in monolayer tungsten dichalcogenides is substantially reduced. This feature suggests that free exciton can be trapped in disordered potential wells to form a localized exciton and therefore offers a route toward novel optical properties.
Structural stability of high entropy alloys under pressure and temperature
Authors: Ahmad Azkar S. , Su Y. , Liu S. Y. , Ståhl K. , Wu Y. D. , Hui X. D. , Ruett U. , Gutowski O. , Glazyrin K. , Liermann H. P. , Franz H. , Wang H. , Wang X. D. , Cao Q. P. , Zhang D. X. , Jiang J. Z.
Published: June 2017

The stability of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) is a key issue before their selection for industrial applications. In this study, in-situ high-pressure and high-temperature synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction experiments have been performed on three typical HEAs Ni20Co20Fe20Mn20Cr20, Hf25Nb25Zr25Ti25, and Re25Ru25Co25Fe25 (at. %), having face-centered cubic (fcc), body-centered cubic (bcc), and hexagonal close-packed (hcp) crystal structures, respectively, up to the pressure of ∼80 GPa and temperature of ∼1262 K. Under the extreme conditions of the pressure and temperature, all three studied HEAs remain stable up to the maximum pressure and temperatures achieved. For these three types of studied HEAs, the pressure-dependence of the volume can be well described with the third order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state. The bulk modulus and its pressure derivative are found to be 88.3 GPa and 4 for bcc-Hf25Nb25Zr25Ti25, 193.9 GPa and 5.9 for fcc-Ni20Co20Fe20Mn20Cr20, and 304.6 GPa and 3.8 for hcp-Re25Ru25Co25Fe25 HEAs, respectively. The thermal expansion coefficient for the three studied HEAs is found to be in the order as follows: fcc-Ni20Co20Fe20Mn20Cr20 > bcc-Hf25Nb25Zr25Ti25 ≈ hcp-Re25Ru25Co25Fe25.
Tuning of Fermi contour anisotropy in GaAs (001) 2D holes via strain
Authors: Jo Insun , Mueed M. A. , Pfeiffer L. N. , West K. W. , Baldwin K. W. , Winkler R. , Padmanabhan Medini , Shayegan M.
Published: June 2017

We demonstrate tuning of the Fermi contour anisotropy of two-dimensional (2D) holes in a symmetric GaAs (001) quantum well via the application of in-plane strain. The ballistic transport of high-mobility hole carriers allows us to measure the Fermi wavevector of 2D holes via commensurability oscillations as a function of strain. Our results show that a small amount of in-plane strain, on the order of 10−4, can induce significant Fermi wavevector anisotropy as large as 3.3, equivalent to a mass anisotropy of 11 in a parabolic band. Our method to tune the anisotropy in situ provides a platform to study the role of anisotropy in phenomena such as the fractional quantum Hall effect and composite fermions in interacting 2D systems.
Discrete symmetries in dynamo reversals
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Riddhi , Verma Mahendra K.
Published: June 2017

Quantification of the velocity and magnetic field reversals in dynamo remains an interesting challenge. In this paper, using group-theoretic analysis, we classify the reversing and non-reversing Fourier modes during a dynamo reversal in a Cartesian box. Based on odd-even parities of the wavenumber indices, we categorise the velocity and magnetic Fourier modes into eight classes each. Then, using the properties of the nonlinear interactions in magnetohydrodynamics, we show that these 16 elements form Klein 16-group Z2×Z2×Z2×Z2. We demonstrate that field reversals in a class of Taylor-Green dynamo, as well as the reversals in earlier experiments and models, belong to one of the classes predicted by our group-theoretic arguments.
Integration of ferroelectric BaTiO3 with Ge: The role of a SrTiO3 buffer layer investigated using aberration-corrected STEM
Authors: Wu HsinWei , Lu Sirong , Aoki Toshihiro , Ponath Patrick , Ekerdt John G. , Demkov Alexander A. , McCartney Martha R. , Smith David J.
Published: June 2017

The integration of semiconductors with ferroelectrics having a controlled polarization direction is an ongoing and challenging topic of research. In this work, BaTiO3 (BTO)/SrTiO3 (STO) heterostructures were grown by molecular beam epitaxy either directly with STO substrates or by using 2-nm-thick STO buffer layers on Ge(001) substrates. Sharp, chemically abrupt interfaces and c-axis-oriented BTO films for both types of heterostructures were observed using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy and elemental mapping. Anti-phase boundaries as well as ⟨100⟩ misfit dislocations were present in the BTO/STO samples, with the offsets of the dislocation cores varying by distances between 1 and 5 nm away from the BTO/STO interface. Conversely, misfit dislocations were not observed in the BTO/STO/Ge structure although vertical anti-phase boundaries were still common. Overall, the results emphasize the benefits of identifying a suitable buffer layer to ensure the growth of a high quality material having the desired out-of-plane ferroelectric polarization.
Vibrational sum frequency generation digital holography
Authors: Ma Ding , Lee Christopher M. , Chen Yizhu , Mehta Nikhil , Kim Seong H. , Liu Zhiwen
Published: June 2017

We demonstrated a molecular spectroscopic imaging method by integrating the capabilities of holography and vibrational sum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy. SFG is a second-order nonlinear optical process that can probe molecular vibration resonance. SFG also poses stringent requirement of noncentro-symmetry, useful for suppressing interfering contributions in a complex environment. Further, holographic detection captures a wide-field complex SFG signal including both the amplitude and phase information, thus enabling new opportunities for three-dimensional label free imaging.
Nonlocal electron kinetics and spatial transport in radio-frequency two-chamber inductively coupled plasmas with argon discharges
Authors: Li Hong , Liu Yang , Zhang Yu-Ru , Gao Fei , Wang You-Nian
Published: June 2017

A two-chamber inductively coupled plasma (ICP) system, in which an expansion region with large volume is attached to a main ICP (driver region with a small vessel), is investigated. In order to give a comprehensive knowledge of this kind of plasma source, the axially and radially resolved measurements of the electron density, effective electron temperature, and electron energy probability function (EEPF) for an argon discharge are systematically conducted by means of Langmuir probe for various powers and gas pressures. Moreover, a hybrid model within COMSOL Multiphysics is employed to validate the experimental results. It is found that the diffusion combined with the nonlocal electron kinetics plays a predominant role in two-chamber ICPs. Along the axial direction, both the electron density and the electron temperature peak at the center of the driver region and they decline towards both sides. The depletion of high-energy tails of EEPFs with axial distance demonstrates the cooling mechanism for energetic electrons in the expansion region. Along the radial direction, the spatial distribution of the electron density exhibits a bell shape for various powers and pressures. However, the radial distribution of the effective electron temperature varies gradually from a convex shape to a concave shape with increasing gas pressure, indicating the transition from nonlocal to local electron kinetics.
Thickness engineering of atomic layer deposited Al2O3 films to suppress interfacial reaction and diffusion of Ni/Au gate metal in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs up to 600 °C in air
Authors: Suria Ateeq J. , Yalamarthy Ananth Saran , Heuser Thomas A. , Bruefach Alexandra , Chapin Caitlin A. , So Hongyun , Senesky Debbie G.
Published: June 2017

In this paper, we describe the use of 50 nm atomic layer deposited (ALD) Al2O3 to suppress the interfacial reaction and inter-diffusion between the gate metal and semiconductor interface, to extend the operation limit up to 600 °C in air. Suppression of diffusion is verified through Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) depth profiling and X-ray diffraction (XRD) and is further supported with electrical characterization. An ALD Al2O3 thin film (10 nm and 50 nm), which functions as a dielectric layer, was inserted between the gate metal (Ni/Au) and heterostructure-based semiconductor material (AlGaN/GaN) to form a metal-insulator-semiconductor high electron mobility transistor (MIS-HEMT). This extended the 50 nm ALD Al2O3 MIS-HEMT (50-MIS) current-voltage (Ids-Vds) and gate leakage (Ig,leakage) characteristics up to 600 °C. Both, the 10 nm ALD Al2O3 MIS-HEMT (10-MIS) and HEMT, failed above 350 °C, as evidenced by a sudden increase of approximately 50 times and 5.3 × 106 times in Ig,leakage, respectively. AES on the HEMT revealed the formation of a Ni-Au alloy and Ni present in the active region. Additionally, XRD showed existence of metal gallides in the HEMT. The 50-MIS enables the operation of AlGaN/GaN based electronics in oxidizing high-temperature environments, by suppressing interfacial reaction and inter-diffusion of the gate metal with the semiconductor.
Note: A new optical method for the detection of bubble nucleation in superheated droplet detector
Authors: Sarkar Rupa , Mondal Prasanna Kumar , Datta Manas , Chatterjee Barun Kumar
Published: June 2017

A superheated droplet detector (SDD) consists of a large number of micron-sized superheated liquid drops suspended in a gel medium. The vaporization of a superheated drop is associated with the emission of an acoustic signal. A novel optical method is developed for the detection of this acoustic signal. In this method, a probe-bubble picks up the acoustic signal, and the oscillation of the probe-bubble is detected by employing a laser and phototransistor. The method can detect vaporization of an individual superheated drop in real-time and can be used for studying the response of SDDs to ionizing radiations.
Mineral status of reproducing ewes grazing vegetative cereal crops
Authors: Masters David G. , Hancock Serina , Refshauge Gordon , Robertson Susan , Bhanugopan Marie , Friend Michael , Thompson Andrew N.
Published: June 2017

Grazing vegetative wheat, barley and oats (both dual-purpose and traditional spring varieties) is becoming an important strategic and tactical grazing option on farms where crops and livestock co-exist. The high winter growth rates of the crops offer an opportunity to fill the winter feed gap and the high nutritive value (metabolisable energy and crude protein) makes them well suited to meet the requirements of reproducing ewes. However, metabolic disorders have been reported and many producers avoid grazing these crops with reproducing ewes because of the risk. The present study aimed to establish the mineral status of both forage and of reproducing ewes grazing wheat, oats or barley. On each of 18 farms, a group of 50 pregnant ewes was monitored. The farms were located in Western Australia (6 farms) southern New South Wales (7 farms) and central New South Wales (5 farms). The average start of grazing was 118 days (range 97–133 days) after the start of mating. Crops grazed were wheat (8 farms), barley (4 farms) or oats (6 farms) and the average period of grazing was 20 days (range 14–24 days). Samples of blood and urine were collected pre- and post-grazing from 11 to 17 ewes and samples of crop and soils were also collected for mineral analysis. A high proportion of farms had forage calcium (Ca, 70%), sodium (Na, 70%) and magnesium (Mg, 18%) below published requirements and potassium (K, 70%) above the published maximum tolerable level. Strong negative correlations were found between soil Colwell K and forage Ca, Mg and Na. Analysis of samples collected from the ewes at the end of the grazing period indicated that ewes on 94% of farms had alkaline urine and on 88% of farms Ca concentrations in the urine were in the marginal range. None of the flock-average Ca concentrations in plasma was in the deficient range, but 59% of the flocks contained some individual ewes with plasma Ca in the deficient range. A small proportion of flock-average concentrations of Mg (6%) and Na (18%) in plasma were in the deficient range. In conclusion, the forages had a complex mineral composition meaning that grazing ewes may have an increased risk of direct or induced Ca (hypocalcaemia) or Mg (hypomagnesaemia) deficiency. The low Na and high K concentrations of these crops may also pose a direct risk to livestock production. Preliminary analysis indicated higher risks from grazing wheat and from grazing crops grown on high-K soils.
An initial investigation of forage production and feed quality of perennial wheat derivatives
Authors: Newell Matthew T. , Hayes Richard C.
Published: June 2017

Perennial cereals may offer a novel forage source in mixed farming enterprises while improving the sustainability of grain farming. There has been limited analysis of the quality of this forage type and its likely value to mixed grazing/cropping farming systems. This study evaluated the biomass and grain production of four wheat × wheatgrass hybrid experimental lines under four simulated grazing regimes; nil defoliation (grain only; D0), defoliate once (D1), defoliate twice (D2) and defoliate twice followed by a simulated hay cut (D3), and compared performance to a winter wheat, Wedgetail, and the perennial grass Thinopyrum intermedium. Early biomass production of the perennial entries was significantly less than Wedgetail (P = 0.01). Grain yield from Wedgetail was generally higher (P < 0.001) than all other lines. As defoliation frequency increased, the comparative difference in grain yield between Wedgetail and the hybrid entries decreased, with lines OK7211542 and 11955 exceeding the grain yield of Wedgetail in the D3 treatment. Cumulative annual biomass production of the hybrid lines exceeded that of Wedgetail, though the seasonal production differed markedly. Generally there was limited decline in perennial plant population between April and December in both years of the experiment. Defoliation had little impact on perennial plant survival; however, none of the hybrids could sustain a significant plant population beyond the second summer of the experiment. Yield declines of the hybrid entries was due to increasing plant mortality, rather than a predisposed yield limitation of the germplasm, as all hybrid entries either maintained or increased their grain yield on a per plant basis. In contrast, the perennial grass maintained a constant population for the duration of the experiment. Dry matter digestibility and energy content of all forages tested were high, averaging 80.2% and 13.3 MJ ME/kg DM, respectively. Crude protein was higher (P < 0.001) in Th. intermedium and the hybrid entries with 62% and 25% more crude protein than Wedgetail, respectively. All cereals had very high potassium : sodium and low calcium : phosphorus ratios, which indicated the need to provide mineral supplements to grazing animals to maintain growth rates and manage animal health disorders, similar to conventional grazing cereals. This paper discusses the role perennial cereals could play in a sustainable expansion of the cropping zone in south-eastern Australia.
The Discursive Construction of Class and Lifestyle
Authors: Tominc Ana
Published: June 2017

This book discusses transformations in the construction of culinary taste, lifestyle and class through cookbook language style in post-socialist Slovenia. Using a critical discourse studies approach it demonstrates how the representation of culinary advice in standard and celebrity cookbooks has changed in recent decades as a result of general social transformations such as postmodernity and globalization. It argues that compared to the standard cookbooks, where nutritionist ideology is at the forefront, the celebrity cookbooks reflect the conversational, hybrid nature of the genre, through which they promote global foodie discourse, while at the same time localizing the global trends to the Slovene context.
The book lays at the intersection of discourse analysis, sociology, food, cultural, communication and media studies and (post-) socialism and should be of interest to those interested in celebrities, food media, socialism and post-socialism, cookbooks, globalization and discourse change.
Using Hydroacoustics to Describe Pelagic Fish Distribution in the Penobscot Estuary, Maine
Authors: O'Malley Michael B. , Saunders Rory , Stevens Justin R. , Jech J. Michael , Sheehan Timothy F.
Published: June 2017

Temperate estuaries are inherently variable and productive ecosystems that provide nursery habitat, migration pathways, and forage areas for diadromous, estuarine, and marine fish. We used multifrequency scientific echo sounders (SIMRAD EK60 split‐beam, 38 and 120 kHz) to describe the distribution of pelagic fish in the Penobscot River estuary, Maine, in 2012 and 2013. Differences in responses between frequencies were used to distinguish fish from other biota. Acoustic area backscatter from echo integration (sA [m2/nautical mile2], a common measure proportional to fish density) and target strength (TS; dB re 1 m2, an acoustic measure of fish size) distributions varied with season and salinity. Overall, the sA and TS distributions were similar in both years, with detectable spatial and temporal patterns. The highest value of sA occurred in July of both years, when dense schools of fish were detected in higher‐salinity areas of the lower estuary. The middle estuary had high sA values in April both years, particularly in the vicinity of the seawater–freshwater interface. The mixing area in the middle estuary stratum appears to be important fish habitat; we found fish in this area throughout the year. Fish of variable TS were using this mixing zone throughout the survey period. In full freshwater, upstream from the salinity mixing area, sA was generally low. The majority (~77%) of discrete fish detected had TS values less than −42 dB. The TS distributions varied seasonally, with the highest TS measurements occurring more frequently in April and May and the lowest ones occurring most frequently in July and August. This study demonstrates the efficacy of using a mobile hydroacoustic survey to assess pelagic fish distribution in a complex estuary and may provide a template for long‐term monitoring in dynamic estuarine ecosystems.

Received November 3, 2016; accepted March 15, 2017 Published online June 20, 2017
Spatial and Temporal Variation in the Diets of Pacific Staghorn Sculpins Related to Hydrological Factors in a Glacially Influenced Estuary
Authors: Whitney Emily J. , Beaudreau Anne H. , Duncan Douglas H.
Published: June 2017

In southeastern Alaska, a large volume of freshwater flows into estuaries from thinning and retreating glaciers and from high rainfall in the surrounding coastal temperate rainforest. Freshwater runoff to the coast affects the physical and chemical properties of estuarine habitats and, in turn, the structure and dynamics of biological communities. This study quantified temporal and spatial variation in the diets of Pacific Staghorn Sculpins Leptocottus armatus as an important step toward understanding how climate‐driven changes in freshwater runoff may translate into shifts in the feeding ecology of a highly abundant consumer in estuaries along the west coast of North America. Stomach contents of Staghorn Sculpins were collected monthly (April–September 2014) from three intertidal sites at the mouths of rivers that differ in their headwater hydrology. Staghorn Sculpins (N = 402) consumed a variety of marine prey items including epibenthic invertebrates, juvenile fishes, and terrestrial and aquatic insects. Based on a multivariate analysis of similarity, diet composition showed weak to moderate differences across sampling months and sites. Diet differences reflected seasonal shifts in the contributions of freshwater‐tolerant marine invertebrates and young of the year fishes. The greatest site differences were observed between the Cowee Creek estuary and Mendenhall River estuary, the watersheds with the lowest and highest glacial coverage, respectively. Overall, the generalist feeding behavior of Staghorn Sculpins and their consumption of prey items that are well adapted to brackish and freshwater conditions suggest that these fish are resilient to changes in estuarine conditions associated with increasing freshwater runoff.
A bifurcated signaling cascade of NIMA-related kinases controls distinct kinesins in anaphase
Authors: Cullati Sierra N. , Kabeche Lilian , Kettenbach Arminja N. , Gerber Scott A.
Published: June 2017

In mitosis, cells undergo a precisely orchestrated series of spatiotemporal changes in cytoskeletal structure to divide their genetic material. These changes are coordinated by a sophisticated network of protein–protein interactions and posttranslational modifications. In this study, we report a bifurcation in a signaling cascade of the NIMA-related kinases (Neks) Nek6, Nek7, and Nek9 that is required for the localization and function of two kinesins essential for cytokinesis, Mklp2 and Kif14. We demonstrate that a Nek9, Nek6, and Mklp2 signaling module controls the timely localization and bundling activity of Mklp2 at the anaphase central spindle. We further show that a separate Nek9, Nek7, and Kif14 signaling module is required for the recruitment of the Rho-interacting kinase citron to the anaphase midzone. Our findings uncover an anaphase-specific function for these effector kinesins that is controlled by specific Nek kinase signaling modules to properly coordinate cytokinesis.
Extracellular vesicles of stromal origin target and support hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Stik Gregoire , Crequit Simon , Petit Laurence , Durant Jennifer , Charbord Pierre , Jaffredo Thierry , Durand Charles
Published: June 2017

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recently reported as crucial mediators in cell-to-cell communication in development and disease. In this study, we investigate whether mesenchymal stromal cells that constitute a supportive microenvironment for hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) released EVs that could affect the gene expression and function of HSPCs. By taking advantage of two fetal liver–derived stromal lines with widely differing abilities to maintain HSPCs ex vivo, we demonstrate that stromal EVs play a critical role in the regulation of HSPCs. Both supportive and nonsupportive stromal lines secreted EVs, but only those delivered by the supportive line were taken up by HSPCs ex vivo and in vivo. These EVs harbored a specific molecular signature, modulated the gene expression in HSPCs after uptake, and maintained the survival and clonogenic potential of HSPCs, presumably by preventing apoptosis. In conclusion, our study reveals that EVs are an important component of the HSPC niche, which may have major applications in regenerative medicine.
Activity-dependent trafficking of lysosomes in dendrites and dendritic spines
Authors: Goo Marisa S. , Sancho Laura , Slepak Natalia , Boassa Daniela , Deerinck Thomas J. , Ellisman Mark H. , Bloodgood Brenda L. , Patrick Gentry N.
Published: June 2017

In neurons, lysosomes, which degrade membrane and cytoplasmic components, are thought to primarily reside in somatic and axonal compartments, but there is little understanding of their distribution and function in dendrites. Here, we used conventional and two-photon imaging and electron microscopy to show that lysosomes traffic bidirectionally in dendrites and are present in dendritic spines. We find that lysosome inhibition alters their mobility and also decreases dendritic spine number. Furthermore, perturbing microtubule and actin cytoskeletal dynamics has an inverse relationship on the distribution and motility of lysosomes in dendrites. We also find trafficking of lysosomes is correlated with synaptic α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid–type glutamate receptors. Strikingly, lysosomes traffic to dendritic spines in an activity-dependent manner and can be recruited to individual spines in response to local activation. These data indicate the position of lysosomes is regulated by synaptic activity and thus plays an instructive role in the turnover of synaptic membrane proteins.
Final report on APMP.M.M.K4.1—bilateral comparison of 1 kg stainless steel mass standards between KRISS and A*STAR
Authors: Chung J W , Lee S M , Lee S J
Published: June 2017

This report describes a bilateral comparison of 1 kg stainless steel mass standard between the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), and the National Measurement Centre, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, which is registered in the BIPM KCDB as APMP.M.M-K4.1. This nominal value was chosen as it followed the nominal value of CCM.M-K4. This bilateral comparison was piloted by KRISS. The transfer weight was delivered to A*STAR from KRISS in April 2015 and received back from A*STAR in October 2015. A*STAR are aiming to improve their calibration measurement capability (CMC) for mass of 1 kg. KRISS participated in both this comparison and CCM.M-K4, providing a link between the A*STAR result and the KCRV of CCM.M-K4. The final report of this comparison is given in this document.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Skein algebras of surfaces
Authors: Przytycki Józef , Sikora Adam
Published: June 2017

We show that the Kauffman bracket skein algebra of any oriented surface

F
F

(possibly with marked points in its boundary) has no zero divisors and that its center is generated by knots parallel to the unmarked components of the boundary of

F
F

. Furthermore, we show that skein algebras are Noetherian and Ore. Our proofs rely on certain filtrations of skein algebras induced by pants decompositions of surfaces. We prove some basic algebraic properties of the associated graded algebras along the way.
Asymptotic stability for odd perturbations of the stationary kink in the variable-speed 𝜙⁴ model
Authors: Snelson Stanley
Published: June 2017

We consider the

ϕ
4

\phi ^4

model in one space dimension with propagation speeds that are small deviations from a constant function. In the constant-speed case, a stationary solution called the kink is known explicitly, and the recent work of Kowalczyk, Martel, and Muñoz established the asymptotic stability of the kink with respect to odd perturbations in the natural energy space. We show that a stationary kink solution exists also for our class of nonconstant propagation speeds, and extend the asymptotic stability result by taking a perturbative approach to the method of Kowalczyk, Martel, and Muñoz. This requires an understanding of the spectrum of the linearization around the variable-speed kink.
The irreducible modules and fusion rules for the parafermion vertex operator algebras
Authors: Ai Chunrui , Dong Chongying , Jiao Xiangyu , Ren Li
Published: June 2017

The irreducible modules for the parafermion vertex operator algebra associated to any finite dimensional Lie algebra

g

\mathfrak {g}

and any positive integer

k
k

are classified, the quantum dimensions are computed and the fusion rules are determined.
Multi-travelling waves for the nonlinear Klein-Gordon equation
Authors: Côte Raphaël , Martel Yvan
Published: June 2017

For the nonlinear Klein-Gordon equation in

R

1
+
d

\mathbb {R}^{1+d}

, we prove the existence of multi-solitary waves made of any number

N
N

of decoupled bound states. This extends the work of Côte and Muñoz (Forum Math. Sigma 2 (2014)) which was restricted to ground states, as were most previous similar results for other nonlinear dispersive and wave models.
Acute Kidney Injury and Urinary Biomarkers in Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Associated Cryptococcal Meningitis
Authors: Schutz Charlotte , Boulware David R. , Huppler-Hullsiek Katherine , von Hohenberg Maximilian , Rhein Joshua , Taseera Kabanda , Thienemann Friedrich , Muzoora Conrad , Meya David B. , Meintjes Graeme
Published: June 2017

Background

Cryptococcus is the most common etiology of adult meningitis in Africa. Amphotericin B deoxycholate remains paramount to treatment, despite toxicities, including acute kidney injury (AKI). We assessed the ability of the following urine markers to predict AKI in patients who received amphotericin B: urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), cystatin C (CysC), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2), and protein.

Methods

One hundred and thirty human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected participants with cryptococcal meningitis were enrolled and received amphotericin and fluconazole for 2 weeks. We defined AKI as glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2; measured urine NGAL, CysC, TIMP-2, and protein; and explored AKI incidence, risk factors, and associations with mortality using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Participants were 48% female with a median age of 35 years, a median CD4 count of 21 cells/μL, and 44% died within 12 months. Incident AKI occurred in 42% and was associated with mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.8; P < .001). Development of AKI was associated with female sex (P = .04) and with higher CD4 count (49 vs 14 cells/μL; P < .01). Urine protein level in the highest quartile independently predicted AKI and mortality (aHR = 1.64, P = .04; aHR = 2.13, P = .02, respectively). Urine NGAL levels in the highest quartile independently predicted AKI (aHR = 1.65; P = .04).

Conclusions

Acute kidney injury occurred in 42% of patients, and AKI was associated with mortality. Urine biomarkers, specifically urine protein, may be useful for antecedent prediction of amphotericin-associated AKI but need further evaluation.
Evaluation of Viral Surrogate Markers for Study of Pathogen Dissemination During Simulations of Patient Care
Authors: Alhmidi Heba , John Amrita , Mana Thriveen C. , Koganti Sreelatha , Cadnum Jennifer L. , Shelton Melissa B. , Donskey Curtis J.
Published: June 2017

During patient care simulations, cauliflower mosaic virus DNA and bacteriophage MS2 performed similarly as surrogate markers of pathogen dissemination. These markers disseminated to the environment in a manner similar to Clostridium difficile spores but were more frequently detected on skin and clothing of personnel after personal protective equipment removal.
The Effect of Smallpox and Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Vaccination on the Risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Infection in Guinea-Bissau and Denmark
Authors: Rieckmann Andreas , Villumsen Marie , Jensen Mette Lundsby , Ravn Henrik , da Silva Zacarias J , Sørup Signe , Baker Jennifer Lyn , Rodrigues Amabélia , Benn Christine Stabell , Roth Adam E , Aaby Peter
Published: June 2017

Background

The live smallpox and Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccinations have been associated with better adult survival in both Guinea-Bissau and Denmark. In Guinea-Bissau, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 became an important cause of death after smallpox vaccination was phased out globally in 1980. We hypothesised that smallpox and BCG vaccinations were associated with a lower prevalence of HIV-1 infection, and we tested this hypothesis in both Guinea-Bissau and Denmark.

Methods

We conducted 2 studies: (1) a cross-sectional study of HIV infection and vaccination scars in Guinea-Bissau including 1751 individuals and (2) a case-base study with a background population of 46239 individuals in Denmark. In Guinea-Bissau, HIV-1 transmission was almost exclusively sexually transmitted. In Denmark, we excluded intravenous drug users. Data were analyzed using logistic regression.

Results

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin and/or smallpox vaccination compared with neither of these vaccines was associated with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for HIV-1 of 0.62 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.36–1.07) in Guinea-Bissau and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.43–1.15) in Denmark. We combined the results from both settings in a meta-analysis (aOR = 0.66; 95% CI, 0.46–0.96). Data from Guinea-Bissau indicated a stronger effect of multiple smallpox vaccination scars (aOR = 0.27; 95% CI, 0.10–0.75) as follows: women, aOR = 0.18 (95% CI, 0.05–0.64); men, aOR = 0.52 (95% CI, 0.12–2.33); sex-differential effect, P = .29.

Conclusions

The studies from Guinea-Bissau and Denmark, 2 very different settings, both suggest that the BCG and smallpox vaccines could be associated with a decreased risk of sexually transmitted HIV-1. It might be informative to pursue this observation and explore possible protective mechanisms as part of the search for an HIV-1 vaccine.
Revised National Estimates of Emergency Department Visits for Sepsis in the United States*
Authors: Wang Henry E. , Jones Allison R. , Donnelly John P.
Published: June 2017

Objectives:

The emergency department is an important venue for initial sepsis recognition and care. We sought to determine contemporary estimates of the epidemiology of U.S. emergency department visits for sepsis.

Design:

Analysis of data from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey.

Setting:

U.S. emergency department visits, 2009–2011.

Patients:

Adult (age, ≥ 18 yr) emergency department sepsis patients. We defined serious infection as an emergency department diagnosis of a serious infection or a triage temperature greater than 38°C or less than 36°C. We defined three emergency department sepsis classifications: 1) original emergency department sepsis—serious infection plus emergency department diagnosis of organ dysfunction, endotracheal intubation, or systolic blood pressure less than or equal to 90 mm Hg or explicit sepsis emergency department diagnoses; 2) quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment emergency department sepsis—serious infection plus presence of at least two “quick” Sequential Organ Failure Assessment criteria (Glasgow Coma Scale ≤ 14, respiratory rate ≥ 22 breaths/min, or systolic blood pressure ≤ 100 mm Hg); and 3) revised emergency department sepsis—original or quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment emergency department sepsis.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

We used survey design and weighting variables to produce national estimates of annual adult emergency department visits using updated sepsis classifications. Over 2009–2011, there were 103,257,516 annual adult emergency department visits. The estimated number of emergency department sepsis visits were as follows: 1) original emergency department sepsis 665,319 (0.64%; 95% CI, 0.57–0.73); 2) quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment emergency department sepsis 318,832 (0.31%; 95% CI, 0.26–0.37); and 3) revised emergency department sepsis 847,868 (0.82%; 95% CI, 0.74–0.91).

Conclusions:

Sepsis continues to present a major burden to U.S. emergency departments, affecting up to nearly 850,000 emergency department visits annually. Updated sepsis classifications may impact national estimates of emergency department sepsis epidemiology.
Levosimendan Prevents and Reverts Right Ventricular Failure in Experimental Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Hansen Mona Sahlholdt , Andersen Asger , Holmboe Sarah , Schultz Jacob Gammelgaard , Ringgaard Steffen , Simonsen Ulf , Happé Chris , Bogaard Harm Jan , Nielsen-Kudsk Jens Erik
Published: June 2017

Background:

We investigated whether chronic levosimendan treatment can prevent and revert right ventricular (RV) failure and attenuate pulmonary vascular remodeling in a rat model of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Methods and Results:

PAH was induced in rats by exposure to SU5416 and hypoxia (SuHx). The rats were randomized to levosimendan (3 mg·kg−1·d−1) initiated before SuHx (n = 10, PREV), levosimendan started 6 weeks after SuHx (n = 12, REV), or vehicle treatment (n = 10, VEH). Healthy control rats received vehicle (n = 10, CONT). Ten weeks after SuHx, RV function was evaluated by echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging, invasive pressure–volume measurements, histology, and biochemistry. Levosimendan treatment improved cardiac output (VEH vs. PREV 77 ± 7 vs. 137 ± 6 mL/min; P < 0.0001; VEH vs. REV 77 ± 7 vs. 117 ± 10 mL/min; P < 0.01) and decreased RV afterload compared with VEH (VEH vs. PREV 219 ± 33 vs. 132 ± 20 mm Hg/mL; P < 0.05; VEH vs. REV 219 ± 33 vs. 130 ± 11 mm Hg/mL; P < 0.01). In the PREV group, levosimendan restored right ventriculoarterial coupling (VEH vs. PREV 0.9 ± 0.1 vs. 1.8 ± 0.3; P < 0.05) and prevented the development of pulmonary arterial occlusive lesions (VEH vs. PREV 37 ± 7 vs. 15 ± 6% fully occluded lesions; P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Chronic treatment with levosimendan prevents and reverts the development of RV failure and attenuates pulmonary vascular remodeling in a rat model of PAH.
Direct to Implant Reconstruction in Nipple Sparing Mastectomy: Patient Selection by Preoperative Digital Mammogram
Authors: Rancati Alberto O. , Angrigiani Claudio H. , Hammond Dennis C. , Nava Maurizio B. , Gonzalez Eduardo G. , Dorr Julio C. , Gercovich Gustavo F. , Rocco Nicola , Rostagno Roman L.
Published: June 2017

Background:

Digital mammography clearly distinguishes gland tissue density from the overlying nonglandular breast tissue coverage, which corresponds to the existing tissue between the skin and the superficial layer of the fascia superficialis surrounding the gland (i.e., dermis and subcutaneous fat). Preoperative digital imaging can determine the thickness of this breast tissue coverage, thus facilitating planning and reducing the rate of necrotic complications after direct to implant (DTI) reconstruction in nipple sparing mastectomy (NSM).

Methods:

Thirty NSMs in 22 patients with type 3 tissue coverage (subcutaneous tissue thickness of 2 cm or more) were selected for DTI reconstruction after NSM to evaluate immediate skin flap/nipple areola complex ischemic complications and patient satisfaction.

Results:

We experienced no wound healing problems or ischemic complications immediately after surgery in our population. Only 1 seroma was observed as a short-term complication. Quality of life and patients’ satisfaction level were optimal at 3 and 6 months follow-up, respectively. The aesthetic results have been evaluated as good/excellent in all cases.

Conclusions:

DTI immediate reconstruction with silicone implants following NSM appears to be a safe option in selected cases with enough tissue coverage, also providing a high level of patient satisfaction. The possibility of selecting cases for this procedure according to the preoperative digital mammogram showing more than 2 cm of superficial tissues thickness may help reducing the risk of immediate ischemic complications.
INTRAOPERATIVE IMAGING OF RETAINED PERFLUOROCARBON LIQUID USING SPECTRAL DOMAIN OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY
Authors: Strampe Margaret R. , Kaehr Mark M. , Carroll Joseph , Kim Judy E.
Published: June 2017

Purpose:

To report images of retained perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) on the surface of the retina obtained during an intraoperative use of hand-held spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

Methods:

A 54-year-old man underwent pars plana vitrectomy with injection of PFCL to repair retinal detachment. Postoperatively, visually significant PFCL droplets were found to be retained in the eye. During the surgical removal of PFCL, a hand-held spectral domain optical coherence tomography was used to image the retina with the patient supine.

Results:

Spectral domain optical coherence tomography images of the retained PFCL illustrated magnification of the areas of the outer retina underlying PFCL bubbles. The images obtained had some similarities to the patient's own observation of “floaters.”

Conclusion:

Droplets of PFCL over the retina result in imaging artifact, most likely due to a lensing effect caused by differences in refractive index between the PFCL and vitreous humor. Although the utility of hand-held spectral domain optical coherence tomography for infants has previously been established, this case presents further application of spectral domain optical coherence tomography in adults when imaging in the supine position is required.
Pediatric jellyfish envenomation in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Glatstein Miguel , Adir Dikla , Galil Bella , Scolnik Dennis , Rimon Ayelet , Pivko-Levy Dikla , Hoyte Christopher
Published: June 2017

Background

Several species of jellyfish native to the western Indian Ocean have entered the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal. Since the late 1980s, each summer Rhopilema nomadica forms swarms as long as 100 km in the southeastern Levant and since the millennium aggregations of additional nonnative jellyfish have been sighted. The aim of this study was to evaluate children seen in the emergency department after jellyfish envenomations and to establish patterns of toxicity associated with this organism.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of all children presenting after jellyfish envenomations to the pediatric emergency department during the jellyfish swarming seasons (June–August) between 2010 and 2015. Extracted data included age, location of envenomation, pain scores, local and systemic manifestations, treatment provided in the emergency department and hospital, and disposition.

Results

Forty-one patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria; their ages ranged from 1 to 16 years and the median age was 9.4 years. Clinical manifestations were evident in all patients. Pain, present in 100% of patients, and an erythematous, whip-like, linear rash present in 87.8%, were the most common manifestations. The majority of ‘burns’ associated with jellyfish stings were first and second degree. The upper limb was affected in 34% and the lower limb was affected in 61% of cases. One patient suffered a sting to the abdomen and three patients suffered a sting to the face. Treatment in the emergency department included pain control, with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opiates, and antihistamines and topical corticosteroids in some cases. Nearly 49% of patients were seen during the summer of 2015 alone and seven patients in this group needed hospitalization. Reasons for hospitalization included systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, tachycardia, and muscle spasms. Two patients developed severe cellulitis, one patient had an anaphylactic reaction, and one was admitted to the ICU after suffering an anaphylactic reaction to a sting sustained while surfing.

Conclusion

The prevalence of the jellyfish swarms and the severity of clinical manifestations because of their envenomations suggest that it should be considered as a health hazard in the Mediterranean Sea. We call for public health authorities in affected countries to initiate a health hazards database, familiarize medical and healthcare staff with the clinical syndromes, train medical and healthcare staff` in appropriate treatment, and initiate and continue public awareness campaigns.