bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chlorophyll fluorescence imaging reveals genetic variation and loci for a photosynthetic trait in diploid potato
Authors: Prinzenberg Aina E. , Víquez‐Zamora Marcela , Harbinson Jeremy , Lindhout Pim , van Heusden Sjaak
Published: January 2018

Physiology and genetics are tightly interrelated. Understanding the genetic basis of a physiological trait such as the quantum yield of the photosystem II, or photosynthetic responses to environmental changes will benefit the understanding of these processes. By means of chlorophyll fluorescence (CF) imaging, the quantum yield of photosystem II can be determined rapidly, precisely and non‐invasively. In this article, the genetic control and variation in the steady‐state quantum yield of PSII (ΦPSII) is analyzed for diploid potato plants. Current progress in potato research and breeding is slow due to high levels of heterozygosity and complexity of tetraploid genetics. Diploid potatoes offer the possibility of overcoming this problem and advance research for one of the globally most important staple foods. With the help of a diploid genetic mapping population two genetic loci that were strongly associated with differences in ΦPSII were identified. This is a proof of principle that genetic analysis for ΦPSII can be done on potato. The effects of three different stress conditions that are important in potato cultivation were also tested: salt stress, low temperature and deficiency in the macronutrient phosphate. For the last two stresses, significant decreases in photosynthetic activity could be shown, revealing potential for stress detection with CF based tools. In general, our findings show the potential of high‐throughput phenotyping for physiological research and breeding in potato.
What does the dot‐probe task measure? A reverse correlation analysis of electrocortical activity
Authors: Thigpen Nina N. , Gruss L. Forest , Garcia Steven , Herring David R. , Keil Andreas
Published: January 2018

The dot‐probe task is considered a gold standard for assessing the intrinsic attentive selection of one of two lateralized visual cues, measured by the response time to a subsequent, lateralized response probe. However, this task has recently been associated with poor reliability and conflicting results. To resolve these discrepancies, we tested the underlying assumption of the dot‐probe task—that fast probe responses index heightened cue selection—using an electrophysiological measure of selective attention. Specifically, we used a reverse correlation approach in combination with frequency‐tagged steady‐state visual potentials (ssVEPs). Twenty‐one participants completed a modified dot‐probe task in which each member of a pair of lateralized face cues, varying in emotional expression (angry‐angry, neutral‐angry, neutral‐neutral), flickered at one of two frequencies (15 or 20 Hz), to evoke ssVEPs. One cue was then replaced by a response probe, and participants indicated the probe orientation (0° or 90°). We analyzed the ssVEP evoked by the cues as a function of response speed to the subsequent probe (i.e., a reverse correlation analysis). Electrophysiological measures of cue processing varied with probe hemifield location: Faster responses to left probes were associated with weak amplification of the preceding left cue, apparent only in a median split analysis. By contrast, faster responses to right probes were systematically and parametrically predicted by diminished visuocortical selection of the preceding right cue. Together, these findings highlight the poor validity of the dot‐probe task, in terms of quantifying intrinsic, nondirected attentive selection irrespective of probe/cue location.
Opportunities for strengthening aquaculture industry through multicriteria decision‐making
Authors: Vergara‐Solana Francisco , Araneda Marcelo E. , Ponce‐Díaz German
Published: January 2018

In operations research, there are methodological tools included in decision theory that can help decision‐makers understand and systematize the decision‐making process. Decisions can be classified either as mono‐criterial, when only one criterion or goal is considered to evaluate its performance or multicriterial, which takes into account the interaction between two or more goals or criteria that can be in conflict. Natural resource management and finance are some important examples where the implementation of this type of tools has benefited the decision‐making process because they allow a number of criteria or objectives to be weighted in a transparent manner to assist when one or more decision‐makers are involved. Despite this, its application was not common in aquaculture; however, in recent years, efforts have increased exponentially. This work seeks to identify opportunity areas for development of new aquaculture‐related research through the implementation of multicriterial decision‐making methods (MCDM). To achieve this, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis was performed to detect MCDM applications that have been implemented in aquaculture industry (24 documents that were grouped into eight applications). Later, this information was complemented through the analysis of selected applications in natural resources management, specifically in fisheries, animal husbandry and agriculture. We propose 23 research topics relevant to the aquaculture industry that can be addressed by the methodologies in MCDM.
Restoration of tropical montane cloud forests: a six‐prong strategy
Authors: Ramírez‐Soto Aníbal , Lucio‐Palacio César R. , Rodríguez‐Mesa Rafael , Sheseña‐Hernández Ixchel , Farhat Fadi N. , Villa‐Bonilla Bernardino , Landa Libreros Laura , Gutiérrez Sosa Gabriela , Trujillo Santos Omar , Gómez Sánchez Israel , Ruelas Inzunza Ernesto
Published: January 2018

Tropical Montane Cloud Forests (TMCFs) are among the vegetation types facing the greatest threats, both globally and in Mexico. Ecological restoration of TMCFs is a priority in several tropical countries. In this paper, we propose that restoration of TMCFs based on applied nucleation methods should be accompanied by a set of additional mechanisms that form a six‐prong strategy. In our experience, the essential set of tools to ensure positive results is composed of (1) a diagnostic‐prescriptive stage; (2) species selection and nursery management of native species for restoring the tree strata; (3) the use of a set of biological indicators to monitor its progression; (4) restoration training for local and government stakeholders; (5) active dissemination of information through a network of private landowners; and (6) voluntary land protection. The proposed framework is based on a decade of interdisciplinary work of the Mexican conservation nonprofit organization Pronatura Veracruz. Although nucleation has been proposed and used to accelerate the natural succession of other tropical forests, there is no detailed documentation of concurring elements to achieve its long‐term success.
Point‐of‐care ultrasound education to improve care of dialysis patients
Authors: Mullangi Surekha , Sozio Stephen M. , Segal Paul , Menez Steven , Martire Carol , Shafi Tariq
Published: January 2018

Point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) is rapidly emerging as a bedside diagnostic tool that can enhance physical diagnosis and facilitate clinical decision making. Although ultrasound is widely used by nephrologists for vascular access and kidney imaging, diagnostic POCUS skills in other anatomic areas are not part of routine nephrology training. In this narrative review, we will provide an overview of selected POCUS techniques, highlight potential uses of POCUS in routine nephrology practice, and describe a new curriculum implemented at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine to teach diagnostic POCUS skills to nephrology fellows.
A practical guide for the care of patients with end‐stage renal disease near the end of life
Authors: Bansal Amar D. , Schell Jane O.
Published: January 2018

Most patients who rely on dialysis for treatment of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) never receive a kidney transplant. Therefore, it is important for nephrology providers to feel comfortable discussing the role of dialysis near the end of life (EOL). Advance care planning (ACP) is an ongoing process of learning patient values and goals in an effort to outline preferences for current and future care. This review presents a framework for how to incorporate ACP in the care of dialysis patients throughout the kidney disease course and at the EOL. Early ACP is useful for all dialysis patients and should ideally begin in the absence of clinical setbacks. Check‐in conversations can be used to continue longitudinal discussions with patients and identify opportunities for symptom management and support. Lastly, triggered ACP is useful to clarify care preferences for patients with worsening clinical status. Practical tools include prognostication models to identify patients at risk for decline; ACP documents to operationalize patient care preferences; and communication guidance for engaging in these important conversations. Interdisciplinary teams with expertise from social work, palliative care, and hospice can be helpful at various stages and are discussed here.
An ortholog of CURLY LEAF/ENHANCER OF ZESTE like‐1 is required for proper flowering in Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Lomax Aaron , Woods Daniel P. , Dong Yinxin , Bouché Frédéric , Rong Ying , Mayer Kevin S. , Zhong Xuehua , Amasino Richard M.
Published: January 2018

Many plants require prolonged exposure to cold to acquire the competence to flower. The process by which cold exposure results in competence is known as vernalization. In Arabidopsis thaliana, vernalization leads to the stable repression of the floral repressor FLOWERING LOCUS C via chromatin modification, including an increase of trimethylation on lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27me3) by Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2). Vernalization in pooids is associated with the stable induction of a floral promoter, VERNALIZATION 1 (VRN1). From a screen for mutants with a reduced vernalization requirement in the model grass Brachypodium distachyon, we identified two recessive alleles of ENHANCER OF ZESTE‐LIKE 1 (EZL1). EZL1 is orthologous to A. thaliana CURLY LEAF 1, a gene that encodes the catalytic subunit of PRC2. B. distachyon ezl1 mutants flower rapidly without vernalization in long‐day (LD) photoperiods; thus, EZL1 is required for the proper maintenance of the vegetative state prior to vernalization. Transcriptomic studies in ezl1 revealed mis‐regulation of thousands of genes, including ectopic expression of several floral homeotic genes in leaves. Loss of EZL1 results in the global reduction of H3K27me3 and H3K27me2, consistent with this gene making a major contribution to PRC2 activity in B. distachyon. Furthermore, in ezl1 mutants, the flowering genes VRN1 and AGAMOUS (AG) are ectopically expressed and have reduced H3K27me3. Artificial microRNA knock‐down of either VRN1 or AG in ezl1‐1 mutants partially restores wild‐type flowering behavior in non‐vernalized plants, suggesting that ectopic expression in ezl1 mutants may contribute to the rapid‐flowering phenotype.
Rab35 GTPase and cancer: Linking membrane trafficking to tumorigenesis
Authors: Shaughnessy Ronan , Echard Arnaud
Published: January 2018

Rab35 is a small GTPase that is involved in many cellular processes, including membrane trafficking, cell polarity, lipid homeostasis, immunity, phagocytosis and cytokinesis. Recent studies showed that activating mutations confer Rab35 with oncogenic properties. Conversely, downregulation of Rab35 inverts apico‐basal cell polarity and promotes cell migration. Here we review Rab35’s known functions in membrane trafficking and signaling, cell division and cell migration in cancer cells and discuss the importance of Rab35‐dependent membrane trafficking in cancer progression.
In vitro efficacy of a first‐generation valosin‐containing protein inhibitor (CB‐5083) against canine lymphoma
Authors: Gareau A. , Rico C. , Boerboom D. , Nadeau M.‐E.
Published: January 2018

Valosin‐containing protein (VCP), through its critical role in the maintenance of protein homeostasis, is a promising target for the treatment of several malignancies, including canine lymphoma. CB‐5083, a first‐in‐class VCP inhibitor, exerts cytotoxicity through the induction of irreversible proteotoxic stress and possesses a broad spectrum of anticancer activity. Here, we determined the cytotoxicity CB‐5083 in canine lymphoma cells and its mechanism of action in vitro. Canine lymphoma cell lines were treated with varying concentrations of CB‐5083 and assessed for viability by trypan blue exclusion and apoptosis by caspase activity assays. The mechanism of CB‐5083 action was determined by immunoblotting and RT‐qPCR analyses of Lys48 ubiquitination and markers of ER stress (DDIT3), autophagy (SQSTM1, MAP1LC3A) and DNA damage (γH2AX). Unfolded protein response markers were also evaluated by immunoblotting (eIF2α, P‐eIF2α) and RT‐qPCR (ATF4). CB‐5083 treatment resulted in preferential cytotoxicity in canine lymphoma cell lines over control peripheral blood mononuclear cells. CB‐5083 rapidly disrupted the ubiquitin‐dependent protein degradation system, inducing sustained ER stress as indicated by a dramatic increase in DDIT3. Activation of the unfolded protein response occurred through the increase eIF2α phosphorylation and increased transcription of ATF4, but did not re‐establish protein homeostasis. Cells rapidly underwent apoptosis through activation of the caspase cascade. These results further validate VCP as an attractive target for the treatment of canine lymphoma and identify CB‐5083 as a novel therapy with clinical potential for this malignancy.
Biodistribution and tolerance of intravenous iodine‐131‐labelled hypericin in healthy dogs
Authors: Abma E. , Peremans K. , De Vos F. , Bosmans T. , Kitshoff A. M. , Daminet S. , Ni Y. , Dockx R. , de Rooster H.
Published: January 2018

Hypericin (Hyp) is a necrosis‐avid compound that can be efficiently labelled with radioiodine for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Before 131I‐Hyp can be considered as a clinically useful drug in a combination therapy for canine cancer patients, evaluation of its toxicity is necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate the biodistribution and tolerance of a single dose administration of 131I‐Hyp. Three healthy dogs were included. 131I‐Hyp at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg and an activity of 185 MBq was intravenously injected. The effects on physical, haematological and biochemical parameters were characterized and the biodistribution and elimination pattern, the effective half‐life and dose rate were assessed. Drug‐related adverse events were limited to mild gastrointestinal signs, resolving within 48 hours. No significant differences were found in blood haematology and serum biochemistry before and after treatment. Following administration, highest percentage of injected dose (%ID ± SD) was found in the liver (5.5 ± 0.33), the lungs (4.17 ± 0.14) and the heart (3.11 ± 0.78). After 24 hours, highest %ID was found in colon (4.25 ± 1.45) and liver (3.45 ± 0.60). Clearance from all organs was effective within 7 days. Effective half‐life was established at 80 hours, and the dose rate fell below <20 μSv/h at 1 m within 1 day. The current study reveals that single dose treatment with 131I‐Hyp at the described dose is well tolerated by healthy dogs and supports the use of radioiodinated hypericin in a combination therapy for canine cancer patients.
Etching low-k films by F atoms: Inside view
Authors: Palov Alexander P. , Rakhimova Tatyana V. , Voronina Ekaterina N. , Mankelevich Yuri A.
Published: January 2018

The multistep reactions mechanism of F atoms interaction with SiOCH low-κ dielectric films, developed on the base of the measured evolution of various surface groups (e.g., Si-CH3) and systematic density functional theory quantum mechanical calculations, was incorporated into the three-dimensional Monte Carlo model of the damage and etching processes. The model is realized on model maps of porous films and allows us to obtain dynamic 3D images of etching porous films and a layer by layer distribution of components that are formed during the etching. Comparison of calculated etching rates of SiOx matrix by fluorine atoms with the experimental data is used to determine the effective etching probabilities (reciprocal values of F atoms collisions with SiOx matrix groups that are required to remove one of them). The detailed space-resolved dynamics of damage and etching processes of low-κ films with different parameters (porosity, pore, and interpore channels sizes, dielectric permittivity) was obtained and discussed.
Time evolution of ion fluxes incident at the substrate plane during reactive high-power impulse magnetron sputtering of groups IVb and VIb transition metals in Ar/N2
Authors: Greczynski Grzegorz , Zhirkov Igor , Petrov Ivan , Greene J. E. , Rosen Johanna
Published: January 2018

Reactive transition-metal (TM) nitride film growth employing bias-synchronized high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) requires a detailed knowledge of the time evolution of metal- and gas-ion fluxes incident at the substrate plane in order to precisely tune momentum transfer and, hence, provide the recoil density and energy necessary to eliminate film porosity at low deposition temperatures without introducing significant film stress. Here, the authors use energy- and time-dependent mass spectrometry to analyze the evolution of metal- and gas-ion fluxes at the substrate plane during reactive HiPIMS sputtering of groups IVb and VIb TM targets in Ar/N2 atmospheres. The time- and energy-integrated metal/gas ion ratio NMe+/Ng+ incident at the substrate is significantly lower for group IVb TMs (ranging from 0.2 for Ti to 0.9 for Hf), due to high N2 reactivity which results in severely reduced target sputtering rates and, hence, decreased rarefaction. In contrast, for less reactive group VIb metals, sputtering rates are similar to those in pure Ar as a result of significant gas heating and high NMe+/Ng+ ratios, ranging from 2.3 for Cr to 98.1 for W. In both sets of experiments, the peak target current density is maintained constant at 1 A/cm2. Within each TM group, NMe+/Ng+ scales with increasing metal-ion mass. For the group-VIb elements, sputtered-atom Sigmund-Thompson energy distributions are preserved long after the HiPIMS pulse, in contradistinction to group-IVb TMs for which the energy distributions collapse into narrow thermalized peaks. For all TMs, the N+ flux dominates that of N2+ ions, as the molecular ions are collisionally dissociated at the target, and N+ exhibits ion energy distribution functions resembling those of metal ions. The latter result implies that both N+ and Me+ species originate from the target. High-energy Ar+ tails, assigned to ionized reflected-Ar neutrals, are observed with heavier TM targets.
Document co-citation analysis to enhance transdisciplinary research
Authors: Trujillo Caleb M. , Long Tammy M.
Published: January 2018

Strategic literature searches have the potential to connect disciplines.
Identifying the substrate proteins of U-box E3s E4B and CHIP by orthogonal ubiquitin transfer
Authors: Bhuripanyo Karan , Wang Yiyang , Liu Xianpeng , Zhou Li , Liu Ruochuan , Duong Duc , Zhao Bo , Bi Yingtao , Zhou Han , Chen Geng , Seyfried Nicholas T. , Chazin Walter J. , Kiyokawa Hiroaki , Yin Jun
Published: January 2018

Engineering the ubiquitin transfer cascades by phage display enables an efficient way to profile E3 substrates.
Seismic signature of active intrusions in mountain chains
Authors: Di Luccio Francesca , Chiodini Giovanni , Caliro Stefano , Cardellini Carlo , Convertito Vincenzo , Pino Nicola Alessandro , Tolomei Cristiano , Ventura Guido
Published: January 2018

Magma pulses in mountain chains may trigger earthquakes relevant to seismic hazard assessment.
Increased fluxes of shelf-derived materials to the central Arctic Ocean
Authors: Kipp Lauren E. , Charette Matthew A. , Moore Willard S. , Henderson Paul B. , Rigor Ignatius G.
Published: January 2018

Shelf inputs in the Arctic Ocean appear to be increasing, which could change the nutrient balance of the central basin.
Defective cholesterol clearance limits remyelination in the aged central nervous system
Authors: Cantuti-Castelvetri Ludovico , Fitzner Dirk , Bosch-Queralt Mar , Weil Marie-Theres , Su Minhui , Sen Paromita , Ruhwedel Torben , Mitkovski Miso , Trendelenburg George , Lütjohann Dieter , Möbius Wiebke , Simons Mikael
Published: January 2018

Keeping cholesterol at bay

A decline in tissue repair is a universal hallmark of aging. The failure to regenerate myelin sheaths in multiple sclerosis lesions contributes to chronic progressive disease and disability. Understanding the cause and preventing this failure is a key goal in regenerative medicine. Cantuti-Castelvetri
et al.
report that the self-limiting inflammatory response, which is necessary for remyelination to occur, is maladaptive in the central nervous system (CNS) of old mice (see the Perspective by Chen and Popko). Cholesterol-rich myelin debris overwhelmed the efflux capacity of phagocytes, resulting in a transition of free cholesterol into crystals, thereby inducing lysosomal rupture and inflammasome stimulation. Thus, drugs being developed to promote cholesterol clearance in human atherosclerosis lesions may also be good candidates for regenerative medicine in the CNS.

Science
, this issue p.
684
; see also p.
635
Moho temperature and mobility of lower crust in the western United States
Authors: Schutt Derek L. , Lowry Anthony R. , Buehler Janine S.
Published: January 2018

We use measurements of mantle P-wave velocity from the Moho refracted phase, Pn, to estimate temperature within the uppermost few km of the western U.S. mantle. Relative to other approaches to modeling the deep geotherm, using Pn velocities requires few assumptions and provides a less uncertain temperature at a tightly constrained depth. Assuming a homogeneous mantle composition, Moho temperatures are lowest in an arc that extends from the High Lava Plains through western Montana and the high-plains region of Wyoming and western Kansas/Nebraska. Highest temperatures are observed under recent (<10 Ma) volcanic provinces and are consistent with melting. Estimates of lower crustal viscosity suggest that the western U.S. west of the Laramide deformation front likely has regions of mobile lower crust that decouple upper crustal and upper mantle tractions.
Mineral changes quantify frictional heating during a large low-friction landslide
Authors: Hu Wei , Huang Runqiu , McSaveney Mauri , Zhang Xiang-hui , Yao Lu , Shimamoto Toshi
Published: January 2018

Data on thermal decomposition constrain events around the transition on 5 June 2009 from creep deformation (over many decades) with sporadic rockfalls to catastrophic collapse of Jiweishan Mountain, China, which poured millions of tons of limestone rubble from a cliff top into the valley below, causing 79 deaths. We quantified frictional resistance (µ, 0.1–0.2) and rapid frictional heating using thermogravimetry, mineral alteration close to the sliding surface, and high-speed rotary experiments. The differential thermogravimetry (DTG) trough temperature varied from 794 ± 4 °C at the sliding interface to ∼720 °C below 10 mm. We inferred that DTG trough changes reflected the substrate thermal history due to landslide frictional heating. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed thermal decomposition of talc (a major mineral in the shale at Jiweishan Mountain) to magnesium metasilicate (formation temperature of ∼600 °C) and enstatite (formation temperature of 800–905 °C). The intensity of the enstatite XRD peak decreased with increasing depth below the sliding surface to disappear below 6.5 mm. Magnesium metasilicate appeared between 6.5 mm and 10.5 mm depth. We replicated the temperatures and mineral changes in high-speed rotary shear experiments. Heating above 800 °C at the sliding surface was confirmed by temperature measurements and thermal decomposition of dolomite to magnesium and calcium oxides in the shallowest samples (which could not have survived for 7 yr at our field site and thus were not detected in the field). We inferred that the slide surface was heated to at least 800 °C by frictional sliding and that the temperature below 10.5 mm depth did not rise above 600 °C. Evidence of dynamic localized recrystallization was found on both field and experimental sliding surfaces, which may be a further explanation for the ultra-low friction during the rapid sliding, besides the presence of a significant basal pore-gas pressure from CO2 and steam.
Topography-guided identification of leakage point in central serous chorioretinopathy: a base for fluorescein angiography-free focal laser photocoagulation
Authors: Maltsev Dmitrii S , Kulikov Alexei N , Chhablani Jay
Published: January 2018

Purpose

To identify optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings associated with the leakage points in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) to provide fluorescein angiography (FA)-free focal laser photocoagulation (FLP) of the leakage point.

Methods

A retrospective study included 48 patients with CSC (48 eyes). Colocalisation of leakage points with pigment epithelial detachments (PEDs) and with areas of photoreceptor outer segments (PROS) layer thinning was evaluated with OCT. Using FA for each leakage point, the relationship to neurosensory detachment was evaluated with retro-mode confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy.

Results

Coincidence with PED was found in 52 of 65 (80.0%) leakage points. The PROS thinning was found in 47 of 52 (90.4%) of the PEDs coincided with leakage point. The mean distance from the upper border of neurosensory detachment to the leakage point was 27.3%±13.0% of the vertical dimension of the neurosensory detachment.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that PEDs localised in the upper half of the neurosensory detachment area and associated with the PROS thinning area coincided with the leakage point in a significant number of patients with CSC. The patients with non-resolving CSC with a small single PED localising in the upper one-third to one-half of the neurosensory detachment area with an area of PROS thinning above this PED may undergo FA-free OCT-guided FLP treating whole PED.
Removing user fees to improve access to caesarean delivery: a quasi-experimental evaluation in western Africa
Authors: Ravit Marion , Audibert Martine , Ridde Valéry , de Loenzien Myriam , Schantz Clémence , Dumont Alexandre
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Mali and Benin introduced a user fee exemption policy focused on caesarean sections in 2005 and 2009, respectively. The objective of this study is to assess the impact of this policy on service utilisation and neonatal outcomes. We focus specifically on whether the policy differentially impacts women by education level, zone of residence and wealth quintile of the household.

Methods

We use a difference-in-differences approach using two other western African countries with no fee exemption policies as the comparison group (Cameroon and Nigeria). Data were extracted from Demographic and Health Surveys over four periods between the early 1990s and the early 2000s. We assess the impact of the policy on three outcomes: caesarean delivery, facility-based delivery and neonatal mortality.

Results

We analyse 99 800 childbirths. The free caesarean policy had a positive impact on caesarean section rates (adjusted OR=1.36 (95% CI 1.11 to 1.66; P≤0.01), particularly in non-educated women (adjusted OR=2.71; 95% CI 1.70 to 4.32; P≤0.001), those living in rural areas (adjusted OR=2.02; 95% CI 1.48 to 2.76; P≤0.001) and women in the middle-class wealth index (adjusted OR=3.88; 95% CI 1.77 to 4.72; P≤0.001). The policy contributes to the increase in the proportion of facility-based delivery (adjusted OR=1.68; 95% CI 1.48 to 1.89; P≤0.001) and may also contribute to the decrease of neonatal mortality (adjusted OR=0.70; 95% CI 0.58 to 0.85; P≤0.001).

Conclusion

This study is the first to evaluate the impact of a user fee exemption policy focused on caesarean sections on maternal and child health outcomes with robust methods. It provides evidence that eliminating fees for caesareans benefits both women and neonates in sub-Saharan countries.
How to and how not to develop a theory of change to evaluate a complex intervention: reflections on an experience in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Maini Rishma , Mounier-Jack Sandra , Borghi Josephine
Published: January 2018

Theories of change (ToCs) describe how interventions can bring about long-term outcomes through a logical sequence of intermediate outcomes and have been used to design and measure the impact of public health programmes in several countries. In recognition of their capacity to provide a framework for monitoring and evaluation, they are being increasingly employed in the development sector. The construction of a ToC typically occurs through a consultative process, requiring stakeholders to reflect on how their programmes can bring about change. ToCs help make explicit any underlying assumptions, acknowledge the role of context and provide evidence to justify the chain of causal pathways. However, while much literature exists on how to develop a ToC with respect to interventions in theory, there is comparatively little reflection on applying it in practice to complex interventions in the health sector. This paper describes the initial process of developing a ToC to inform the design of an evaluation of a complex intervention aiming to improve government payments to health workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lessons learnt include: the need for the ToC to understand how the intervention produces effects on the wider system and having broad stakeholder engagement at the outset to maximise chances of the intervention’s success and ensure ownership. Power relationships between stakeholders may also affect the ToC discourse but can be minimised by having an independent facilitator. We hope these insights are of use to other global public health practitioners using this approach to evaluate complex interventions.
Mental disorder in children with physical conditions: a pilot study
Authors: Butler Alexandra , Van Lieshout Ryan J , Lipman Ellen Louise , MacMillan Harriet L , Gonzalez Andrea , Gorter Jan Willem , Georgiades Kathy , Speechley Kathy N , Boyle Michael H , Ferro Mark A
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Methodologically, to assess the feasibility of participant recruitment and retention, as well as missing data in studying mental disorder among children newly diagnosed with chronic physical conditions (ie, multimorbidity). Substantively, to examine the prevalence of multimorbidity, identify sociodemographic correlates and model the influence of multimorbidity on changes in child quality of life and parental psychosocial outcomes over a 6-month follow-up.

Design

Prospective pilot study.

Setting

Two children’s tertiary-care hospitals.

Participants

Children aged 6–16 years diagnosed in the past 6 months with one of the following: asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, food allergy or juvenile arthritis, and their parents.

Outcome measures

Response, participation and retention rates. Child mental disorder using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview at baseline and 6 months. Child quality of life, parental symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, and family functioning. All outcomes were parent reported.

Results

Response, participation and retention rates were 90%, 83% and 88%, respectively. Of the 50 children enrolled in the study, the prevalence of multimorbidity was 58% at baseline and 42% at 6 months. No sociodemographic characteristics were associated with multimorbidity. Multimorbidity at baseline was associated with declines over 6 months in the following quality of life domains: physical well-being, β=−4.82 (–8.47, –1.17); psychological well-being, β=−4.10 (–7.62, –0.58) and school environment, β=−4.17 (–8.18, –0.16). There was no association with parental psychosocial outcomes over time.

Conclusions

Preliminary evidence suggests that mental disorder in children with a physical condition is very common and has a negative impact on quality of life over time. Based on the strong response rate and minimal attrition, our approach to study child multimorbidity appears feasible and suggests that multimorbidity is an important concern for families. Methodological and substantive findings from this pilot study have been used to implement a larger, more definitive study of child multimorbidity, which should lead to important clinical implications.
Undrained monotonic triaxial loading behaviors of a type of iron ore fines
Authors: Wang Hailong , Koseki Junichi , Cai Fei , Nishimura Tomoyoshi
Published: January 2018

Concerning the static liquefaction properties of an industrial cargo, i.e., iron ore fines (IOF), undrained monotonic behaviors of a type of IOF are revealed through conducting triaxial compression tests. It is found that IOF exhibit some similar behaviors as those of common sandy soils, while some very unusual behaviors are also observed. All IOF specimens with compaction degree of 84%–95% and confining pressure of 50–200 kPa exhibit dilative behavior from the beginning of axial loading until the deviator stresses reach their peaks (qpk). Then the dilative behavior transforms to a contractive behavior, and the contractive behavior continues until reaching the residual stress without observation of phase transformation and quasi steady state. These behaviors are not usually observed for common sandy soils based on extensive previous works. More studies may be necessary as these unusual behaviors imply that flow failure, similar to the undrained monotonic behavior of very loose sand, may be triggered regardless of the density of IOF. In addition, this study also establishes the relationships of IOF between its initial conditions, peak stress conditions, and residual conditions by employing classical knowledges developed for sandy soils.
Histamine H1Receptor Antagonists Facilitate Electroacupuncture Analgesia
Authors: Lin Jaung-Geng , Lee Yu-Chen , Tu Cheng-Hao , MacDonald Iona , Chung Hsin-Yi , Luo Sih-Ting , Hung Shih-Ya , Chen Yi-Hung
Published: January 2018

This study investigated the influence of the histamine H1receptor antagonists, chlorpheniramine (CHL) and pyrilamine, on the analgesic effects of acupuncture in mice. Nociceptive response was evaluated by the acetic acid-induced abdominal writhe test. Electroacupuncture (EA) at bilateral ST36 reduced the manifestations of acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing, whereas needle insertion without electrostimulation had no such effect. Notably, EA treatment was not associated with any analgesic effects in mice pretreated with naloxone. Low doses of CHL (0.6[Formula: see text]mg/kg; p.o.) or pyrilamine (2.5[Formula: see text]mg/kg; i.p.) as monotherapy did not affect acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing. However, when each agent was combined with EA, acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing was reduced by a greater extent when compared with EA alone. Interestingly, the effects of CHL on acupuncture analgesia were not completely reversed by naloxone treatment. Acetic acid induced increases of phospho-p38 expression in spinal cord, as determined by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis. These effects were attenuated by EA at ST36 and by low doses of histamine H1receptor antagonists, alone or in combination. Our findings show that relatively low doses of histamine H1receptor antagonists facilitate EA analgesia via non-opioid receptors. These results suggest a useful strategy for increasing the efficacy of EA analgesia in a clinical situation.
Vitex rotundifolia Fruit Suppresses the Proliferation of Human Colorectal Cancer Cells through Down-regulation of Cyclin D1 and CDK4 via Proteasomal-Dependent Degradation and Transcriptional Inhibition
Authors: Song Hun Min , Park Gwang Hun , Park Su Bin , Kim Hyun-Seok , Son Ho-Jun , Um Yurry , Jeong Jin Boo
Published: January 2018

Viticis Fructus (VF) as the dried fruit from Vitex rotundifolia L. used as a traditional medicine for treating inflammation, headache, migraine, chronic bronchitis, eye pain, and gastrointestinal infections has been reported to have antiproliferative effects against various cancer cells, including breast, lung and colorectal cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanisms by which VF mediates the inhibitory effect of the proliferation of cancer cells have not been elucidated in detail. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism of VF on the down-regulation of cyclin D1 and CDK4 level associated with cancer cell proliferation. VF suppressed the proliferation of human colorectal cancer cell lines such as HCT116 and SW480. VF induced decrease in cyclin D1 and CDK4 in both protein and mRNA levels. However, the protein levels of cyclin D1 and CDK4 were decreased by VF at an earlier time than the change of mRNA levels; rather it suppressed the expression of cyclin D1 and CDK4 via the proteasomal degradation. In cyclin D1 and CDK4 degradation, we found that Thr286 phosphorylation of cyclin D1 plays a pivotal role in VF-mediated cyclin D1 degradation. Subsequent experiments with several kinase inhibitors suggest that VF-mediated degradation of cyclin D1 may be dependent on GSK3[Formula: see text] and VF-mediated degradation of CDK4 is dependent on ERK1/2, p38 and GSK3[Formula: see text]. In the transcriptional regulation of cyclin D1 and CDK4, we found that VF inhibited Wnt activation associated with cyclin D1 transcriptional regulation through TCF4 down-regulation. In addition, VF treatment down-regulated c-myc expression associated CDK4 transcriptional regulation. Our results suggest that VF has potential to be a candidate for the development of chemoprevention or therapeutic agents for human colorectal cancer.
Supramolecular gels and mesoscopic structure
Authors: Lin Nai-Bo , Lin You-Hui , Huang Qiao-Ling , Liu Xiang-Yang
Published: January 2018

From the perspective of mesoscale, the formation mechanism of crystal network structure of supramolecular gel, the influence of structure on macroscopic properties, and the design and control of supramolecular gels are reviewed. Crystal network is a key character of the hierarchical structure of the gel, the formations of the basic and multi-level crystal networks are based on the crystal nucleation and growth. The engineering and controlling of the gel structure can be implemented by various stimuli, such as additives, sonication, seeding and thermodynamic driving force, which leads to a controllable performance of the gel. In addition, the methods of characterizing supramolecular gels are systematically summarized, such as rheology, atomic force microscope, scanning tunnel microscope, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, polarizing optical microscope, X-ray diffraction (XRD), small-angle X-ray scattering, small angle neutron scattering, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), etc. Supramolecular gel performance is determined by the hierarchy mesoscopic structures, which can significantly improve the properties of the material. Four factors can be correlated to the structure and performance of material: topology, correlation length, symmetry/ordering and strength of association of crystal networks. According to the more in-depth understanding of mesoscopic supramolecular gels, the research and development of such a material will be pushed to a new stage.
Analytical study of exact solutions of the nonlinear Korteweg–de Vries equation with space–time fractional derivatives
Authors: Liu Jiangen , Zhang Yufeng
Published: January 2018

This paper gives an analytical study of dynamic behavior of the exact solutions of nonlinear Korteweg–de Vries equation with space–time local fractional derivatives. By using the improved [Formula: see text]-expansion method, the explicit traveling wave solutions including periodic solutions, dark soliton solutions, soliton solutions and soliton-like solutions, are obtained for the first time. They can better help us further understand the physical phenomena and provide a strong basis. Meanwhile, some solutions are presented through 3D-graphs.
Comparison principle for difference equations with variable-time impulses
Authors: Li Hongfei , Li Chuandong , Huang Tingwen
Published: January 2018

In this paper, a class of difference equations with variable-time impulses is considered. By applying comparison principle, we shall show that difference equations with variable-time impulse can be reduced to the corresponding difference equations with fixed-time impulses under well-selected conditions. Meanwhile, the fixed-time impulsive systems can be regarded as the comparison system of the difference equations with variable-time impulses. Furthermore, we use a series of sufficient criteria to illustrate the same stability properties between variable-time impulsive difference equations and the fixed-time ones. We then establish several sufficient conditions guaranteeing the global exponential stability of variable-time impulsive difference equations by comparison principle. As an application, global exponential stability of discrete-time neural networks with variable-time impulses is discussed. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed results.
Microstructure and thermoelectric properties of CuInSe2/In2Se3 compound
Authors: Wang Kang , Feng Jing , Ge Zhen-Hua , Qin Peng , Yu Jie
Published: January 2018

CuInSe2 powders were synthesized by solvothermal method, and then the CuInSe2/In2Se3 bulk samples were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique. To investigate the phase composition, the powders were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The microstructures of the powders and bulk samples were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The transportation of the electronic properties and thermal conductivity were measured at room temperature to 700 K. According to the results, the CuInSe2 powders appeared in flower-like patterns which ranged from 3 [Formula: see text]m to 6 [Formula: see text]m. CuInSe2 powders were synthesized at 180[Formula: see text]C with a chalcopyrite structure. The Seebeck coefficient increased significantly in composite thermoelectric materials up to [Formula: see text] at 623 K. The thermal conductivity of the sample significantly decreases from the room temperature to 700 K. The CuInSe2 bulk composite by solvothermal method achieves the highest ZT value of 0.187 at 700 K.
On the paradoxical evolution of the number of photons in a new model of interpolating Hamiltonians
Authors: Valverde Clodoaldo , Baseia Basílio
Published: January 2018

We introduce a new Hamiltonian model which interpolates between the Jaynes–Cummings model (JCM) and other types of such Hamiltonians. It works with two interpolating parameters, rather than one as traditional. Taking advantage of this greater degree of freedom, we can perform continuous interpolation between the various types of these Hamiltonians. As applications, we discuss a paradox raised in literature and compare the time evolution of the photon statistics obtained in the various interpolating models. The role played by the average excitation in these comparisons is also highlighted.
Anti-synchronization control of BAM memristive neural networks with multiple proportional delays and stochastic perturbations
Authors: Wang Weiping , Yuan Manman , Luo Xiong , Liu Linlin , Zhang Yao
Published: January 2018

Proportional delay is a class of unbounded time-varying delay. A class of bidirectional associative memory (BAM) memristive neural networks with multiple proportional delays is concerned in this paper. First, we propose the model of BAM memristive neural networks with multiple proportional delays and stochastic perturbations. Furthermore, by choosing suitable nonlinear variable transformations, the BAM memristive neural networks with multiple proportional delays can be transformed into the BAM memristive neural networks with constant delays. Based on the drive-response system concept, differential inclusions theory and Lyapunov stability theory, some anti-synchronization criteria are obtained. Finally, the effectiveness of proposed criteria are demonstrated through numerical examples.
A single-patterned five-band terahertz metamaterial absorber based on multiple resonance mechanisms
Authors: Ju Zong-De , Xu Guo-Qing , Wei Zhi-Hua , Li Jing , Zhao Qian , Huang Jie
Published: January 2018

A single-patterned five-band terahertz metamaterial absorber based on simple metal–dielectric–metal sandwich structure is investigated and demonstrated. The numerical simulations reveal the different dependence of the absorption ability on the incident polarization angle, dielectric layer, and structural dimensions of the single pattern. The extracted electric field distribution indicates that the five-band near-perfect absorption performance (average over 98%) mainly originates from the combination of LC, dipole, quadrupole, and high-order resonance. The researches on magnetic field and power loss density distributions further reveal the absorption mechanism. Moreover, additional resonance mode can be excited to form a six-band high-performance absorber only by adjusting some geometric dimensions of the single pattern with multiple resonance modes. The simple method provides us a very good idea to implement a super multi-band absorber. The proposed absorbers here can be applied in massive related fields, such as metamaterial sensors, thermal radiation, and imaging system.
Nonlinear analysis of an improved continuum model considering headway change with memory
Authors: Cheng Rongjun , Wang Jufeng , Ge Hongxia , Li Zhipeng
Published: January 2018

Considering the effect of headway changes with memory, an improved continuum model of traffic flow is proposed in this paper. By means of linear stability theory, the new model’s linear stability with the effect of headway changes with memory is obtained. Through nonlinear analysis, the KdV–Burgers equation is derived to describe the propagating behavior of traffic density wave near the neutral stability line. Numerical simulation is carried out to study the improved traffic flow model, which explores how the headway changes with memory affected each car’s velocity, density and energy consumption. Numerical results show that when considering the effects of headway changes with memory, the traffic jams can be suppressed efficiently. Furthermore, research results demonstrate that the effect of headway changes with memory can avoid the disadvantage of historical information, which will improve the stability of traffic flow and minimize car energy consumption.