bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitizing properties of luminescence centers on the emission of Er3+ in Si-rich SiO2 film
Authors: Fu Qianyu , Gao Yuhan , Li Dongsheng , Yang Deren
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we report on the luminescence-center (LC)-mediated excitation of Er3+ as a function of annealing temperature in Er-doped Si-rich SiO2 (SRO) films fabricated by electron beam evaporation. It is found that the annealing temperature has significant effects on the emission of Er3+ and the specific optical-active point-defects called LCs within Er-doped SRO films. Different luminescence centers generated by the evolution of microstructures during annealing process act as efficient sensitizers for Er3+ in the films when the annealing temperature is below 1100 °C. Moreover, the temperature dependence of the energy coupling between LCs and Er3+ demonstrates the effective phonon-mediated energy transfer process. In addition, when the annealing temperature reaches 1100 °C, the decreased density of activable erbium ions induced by the aggregation of Er will bring detrimental effects on the emission of Er3+. It is demonstrated that an appropriate annealing process can be designed to achieve efficiently enhanced emissions from Er3+ ions by optimizing the density of LCs and the coupling between Er3+ and LCs.
Perspective: The first ten years of broadband chirped pulse Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy
Authors: Park G. Barratt , Field Robert W.
Published: May 2016

Since its invention in 2006, the broadband chirped pulse Fourier transform spectrometer has transformed the field of microwave spectroscopy. The technique enables the collection of a ≥10 GHz bandwidth spectrum in a single shot of the spectrometer, which allows broadband, high-resolution microwave spectra to be acquired several orders of magnitude faster than what was previously possible. We discuss the advantages and challenges associated with the technique and look back on the first ten years of chirped pulse Fourier transform spectroscopy. In addition to enabling faster-than-ever structure determination of increasingly complex species, the technique has given rise to an assortment of entirely new classes of experiments, ranging from chiral sensing by three-wave mixing to microwave detection of multichannel reaction kinetics. However, this is only the beginning. Future generations of microwave experiments will make increasingly creative use of frequency-agile pulse sequences for the coherent manipulation and interrogation of molecular dynamics.
Design and experimental verification of a cascade traveling-wave thermoacoustic amplifier
Authors: Senga Mariko , Hasegawa Shinya
Published: May 2016

In this study, we designed and built a prototype of a cascade thermoacoustic amplifier that connects multiple regenerators while satisfying high acoustic impedance at all regenerator positions. To connect the regenerators, the transfer matrix for each component unit, consisting of a regenerator and the adjacent resonators, was analyzed and the eigenvector and the eigenvalue were numerically determined. The experimental results showed that an acoustic power amplification higher than 100 was achieved by the cascade connection of eight regenerators. Furthermore, a high acoustic impedance of approximately six times higher than that of a free-traveling plane wave was realized at all regenerator positions.
Managing the rumen to limit the incidence and severity of nitrite poisoning in nitrate-supplemented ruminants
Authors: Nolan J. V. , Godwin I. R. , de Raphélis-Soissan V. , Hegarty R. S.
Published: May 2016

Inclusion of nitrate (NO3−) in ruminant diets is a means of increasing non-protein nitrogen intake while at the same time reducing emissions of enteric methane (CH4) and, in Australia, gaining carbon credits. Rumen microorganisms contain intracellular enzymes that use hydrogen (H2) released during fermentation to reduce NO3− to nitrite (NO2−), and then reduce the resulting NO2− to ammonia or gaseous intermediates such as nitrous oxide (N2O) and nitric oxide (NO). This diversion of H2 reduces CH4 formation in the rumen. If NO2− accumulates in the rumen, it may inhibit growth of methanogens and other microorganisms and this may further reduce CH4 production, but also lower feed digestibility. If NO2− is absorbed and enters red blood cells, methaemoglobin is formed and this lowers the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Nitric oxide produced from absorbed NO2− reduces blood pressure, which, together with the effects of methaemoglobin, can, at times, lead to extreme hypoxia and death. Nitric oxide, which can be formed in the gut as well as in tissues, has a variety of physiological effects, e.g. it reduces primary rumen contractions and slows passage of digesta, potentially limiting feed intake. It is important to find management strategies that minimise the accumulation of NO2−; these include slowing the rate of presentation of NO3– to rumen microbes or increasing the rate of removal of NO2−, or both. The rate of reduction of NO3− to NO2− depends on the level of NO3− in feed and its ingestion rate, which is related to the animal’s feeding behaviour. After NO3− is ingested, its peak concentration in the rumen depends on its rate of solubilisation. Once in solution, NO3− is imported by bacteria and protozoa and quickly reduced to NO2−. One management option is to encapsulate the NO3− supplement to lower its solubility. Acclimating animals to NO3− is an established management strategy that appears to limit NO2− accumulation in the rumen by increasing microbial nitrite reductase activity more than nitrate reductase activity; however, it does not guarantee complete protection from NO2− poisoning. Adding concentrates into nitrate-containing diets also helps reduce the risk of poisoning and inclusion of microbial cultures with enhanced NO2−-reducing properties is another potential management option. A further possibility is to inhibit NO2− absorption. Animals differ in their tolerance to NO3− supplementation, so there may be opportunities for breeding animals more tolerant of dietary NO3−. Our review aims to integrate current knowledge of microbial processes responsible for accumulation of NO2− in rumen fluid and to identify management options that could minimise the risks of NO2− poisoning while reducing methane emissions and maintaining or enhancing livestock production.
Superresolved multiphoton microscopy with spatial frequency-modulated imaging
Authors: Field Jeffrey J. , Wernsing Keith A. , Domingue Scott R. , Allende Motz Alyssa M. , DeLuca Keith F. , Levi Dean H. , DeLuca Jennifer G. , Young Michael D. , Squier Jeff A. , Bartels Randy A.
Published: May 2016

Significance

Superresolution microscopy is indispensable in biological sciences. The vast majority of superresolution imaging techniques exploit real energetic states of fluorescent molecules to break the diffraction limit. To date, superresolved imaging of second- and third-harmonic generation has been limited to specific sample preparations where the polarization state of the excitation laser can be manipulated to overcome the diffraction limit. Here, we describe a method for multiphoton superresolved imaging that does not place such restrictions on the sample and allows for simultaneous superresolved imaging of both coherent and incoherent signal light. Combined with single-element detection, this technique may allow for significant advances in multimodal multiphoton imaging of highly scattering biological tissues.
Machinability of CuZn21Si3P brass
Authors: Schultheiss F. , Johansson D. , Linde M. , Tam P. L. , Bushlya V. , Zhou J. , Nyborg L. , Ståhl J.-E.
Published: May 2016

New brass alloys containing less or even no lead are being developed, decreasing the environmental impact of the material. One example of an alternative brass is CuZn21Si3P, which contains less than 0.09 wt-% Pb. The research presented in this article evaluates the machinability of CuZn21Si3P as compared to more common, lead-containing free-machining brasses. The results show a marked decrease in the machinability of CuZn21Si3P. When longitudinally turning CuZn21Si3P the cutting tool failed after 142 min of machining. This tool wear was to a large extent remedied through the use of a coating on the cutting tool. CuZn21Si3P appears as a viable substitute for lead-containing brasses, thus implying the possibility for improving the sustainability of modern production.

This paper is part of a Themed Issue on Brass Alloys.
Diet Overlap and Predation Between Largemouth Bass and Walleye in Wisconsin Lakes Using DNA Barcoding to Improve Taxonomic Resolution
Authors: Kelling Craig J. , Isermann Daniel A. , Sloss Brian L. , Turnquist Keith N.
Published: May 2016

Over the last decade, the abundance of Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides has increased in many northern Wisconsin lakes, causing concern among anglers and biologists regarding the potential for Largemouth Bass to negatively affect populations of Walleye Sander vitreus through predation or competition for prey. Our objectives were to determine whether (1) diet overlap and predation occurred between adult Walleyes and Largemouth Bass in four northern Wisconsin lakes and (2) the use of DNA barcoding to reduce unidentifiable fish in diet samples affected conclusions regarding diet overlap. A single occurrence of Walleye predation was observed in the diets of 945 Largemouth Bass. Moderate to high diet overlap was observed between Largemouth Bass and Walleyes throughout much of the study period. The use of DNA barcoding reduced the amount of unidentified fish in diets to <1% and showed that failure to identify fish or fish parts can affect conclusions regarding diet overlap. Largemouth Bass predation is probably not a primary factor affecting Walleye abundance in the lakes we selected, but observed diet overlap suggests the potential for competition between the two species.

Received June 15, 2015; accepted January 18, 2016 Published online May 26, 2016
Rhabdomyosarcoma in a Silver Carp
Authors: Rezaie Annahita , Mousavi Seyed Mohammad , Ansari Mahshid Bagherzadeh
Published: May 2016

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a primitive neoplasm that originates from skeletal muscle progenitor cells. In a routine inspection of a cyprinid farm in southwestern Iran, an approximately 2-year-old female Silver Carp was observed to have a raised mass located on the dorsolateral surface just caudal to the head. Macroscopic examination revealed a firm irregular fleshy pink mass (5 × 4 cm, depth = 3 cm) that appeared to arise from the subcutaneous musculature. Histologic sections were prepared using routine methods and separate sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Massons’ trichrome. Microscopically, the tumor mass was composed of spindle cells that were densely packed and arranged in long interwoven bundles. The nuclei were vesicular and oval to elongated or cigar-shaped. Nuclear pleomorphism and multinucleate tumor giant cells were clearly evident. The neoplastic cell cytoplasm was eosinophilic with indistinct cell margins, and clear cross striations were observed in fibrils. The striated fibrils stained diffusely red with Masson's trichrome. This account represents the first reported occurrence of rhabdomyosarcoma in Silver Carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix.

Received July 10, 2015; accepted February 4, 2016
Sex‐specific associations of moderate and vigorous physical activity with physical fitness in adolescents
Authors: Kidokoro T. , Tanaka H. , Naoi K. , Ueno K. , Yanaoka T. , Kashiwabara K. , Miyashita M.
Published: May 2016

The present study examined the sex‐specific associations of moderate and vigorous physical activity (VPA) with physical fitness in 300 Japanese adolescents aged 12–14 years. Participants were asked to wear an accelerometer to evaluate physical activity (PA) levels of various intensities (i.e. moderate PA (MPA), 3–5.9 metabolic equivalents (METs); VPA, ≥6 METs; moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA), ≥3 METs). Eight fitness items were assessed (grip strength, bent‐leg sit‐up, sit‐and‐reach, side step, 50 m sprint, standing long jump, handball throw, and distance running) as part of the Japanese standardised fitness test. A fitness composite score was calculated using Japanese fitness norms, and participants were categorised according to their score from category A (most fit) to category E (least fit), with participants in categories D and E defined as having low fitness. It was found that for boys, accumulating more than 80.7 min/day of MVPA may reduce the probability of low fitness (odds ratio (ORs) [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 0.17 [0.06–0.47], p = .001). For girls, accumulating only 8.4 min of VPA could reduce the likelihood of exhibiting low fitness (ORs [95% CI] = 0.23 [0.05–0.89], p = .032). These results reveal that there are sex‐specific differences in the relationship between PA and physical fitness in adolescents, suggesting that sex‐specific PA recommendation may be needed to improve physical fitness in adolescents.
Stock Complexes for Fisheries Management in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Farmer Nicholas A. , Malinowski Richard P. , McGovern Mary F. , Rubec Peter J.
Published: May 2016

The Magnuson–Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 2006 required that regional fishery management councils implement annual catch limits and accountability measures for all federally managed stocks by 2011. Many managed species are data limited and no formal stock assessment has been done for them. One possible approach to managing unassessed species is to assign them to assemblages that are managed as units. The utility of this approach was evaluated using fishery-dependent and fishery-independent data from the Gulf of Mexico. Multivariate statistical analyses revealed several consistent assemblages among the 42 reef fish species managed by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council. Pearson correlation matrices, nodal analyses, and a weighted mean cluster association index integrated results across cluster analyses and provided additional guidance regarding the placement of rare species into groups. Productivity–susceptibility analysis and life history were also considered, as differences in productivity, vulnerability, life history, and other population-dynamic parameters for the species within complexes might imply different population responses to a similar change in fishing mortality. Identified linkages between species also provide guidance for the impacts of regulations on multispecies fisheries.

Received December 31, 2014; accepted February 18, 2015
Wide binaries in ultrafaint galaxies: a window on to dark matter on the smallest scales
Authors: Peñarrubia Jorge , Ludlow Aaron D. , Chanamé Julio , Walker Matthew G.
Published: May 2016

We carry out controlled N-body simulations that follow the dynamical evolution of binary stars in the dark matter (DM) haloes of ultrafaint dwarf spheroidals (dSphs). We find that wide binaries with semimajor axes a ≳ at tend to be quickly disrupted by the tidal field of the halo. In smooth potentials the truncation scale, at, is mainly governed by (i) the mass enclosed within the dwarf half-light radius (Rh) and (ii) the slope of the DM halo profile at R ≈ Rh, and is largely independent of the initial eccentricity distribution of the binary systems and the anisotropy of the stellar orbits about the galactic potential. For the reported velocity dispersion and half-light radius of Segue I, the closest ultrafaint, our models predict at values that are a factor of 2–3 smaller in cuspy haloes than in any of the cored models considered here. Using mock observations of Segue I we show that measuring the projected two-point correlation function of stellar pairs with sub-arcsecond resolution may provide a useful tool to constrain the amount and distribution of DM in the smallest and most DM-dominated galaxies.
ASASSN-15jd: WZ Sge-type star with intermediate superoutburst between single and double ones
Authors: Kimura Mariko , Isogai Keisuke , Kato Taichi , Imada Akira , Kojiguchi Naoto , Sugiura Yuki , Fukushima Daiki , Takeda Nao , Matsumoto Katsura , Dvorak Shawn , Vanmunster Tonny , Dubovsky Pavol A. , Kudzej Igor , Miller Ian , Pavlenko Elena P. , Babina Julia V. , Antonyuk Oksana I. , Baklanov Aleksei V. , Stein William L. , Andreev Maksim V. , Tordai Tamás , Itoh Hiroshi , Pickard Roger D. , Nogami Daisaku
Published: May 2016

We present optical photometry of a WZ Sge-type dwarf nova (DN), ASASSN-15jd. Its light curve showed a small dip in the middle of the superoutburst in 2015 for the first time among WZ Sge-type DNe. The unusual light curve implies a delay in the growth of the 3 : 1 resonance tidal instability. Also, the light curve is similar to those of two other WZ Sge-type stars, SSS J122221.7−311523 and OT J184228.1+483742, which are believed to be the best candidates for period bouncers on the basis of their small values of the mass ratio (q ≡ M2/M1). Additionally, the small mean superhump amplitude (<0.1 mag) and the long duration of no ordinary superhumps at the early stage of its superoutburst are common to the best candidates for period bouncers. Its average superhump period was Psh = 0.0649810(78) d and no early superhumps were detected. Although we could not estimate a mass ratio of ASASSN-15jd with high accuracy, this object is expected to be a candidate for a period bouncer—a binary accounting for the missing population of post-period minimum cataclysmic variables—based on the above characteristics.
Comparing the Accuracy and Speed of Manual and Tracking Methods of Measuring Hearing Thresholds
Authors: Poling Gayla L. , Kunnel Theresa J. , Dhar Sumitrajit
Published: May 2016

Objectives:

The reliability of hearing thresholds obtained using the standard clinical method (modified Hughson-Westlake) has been the focus of previous investigation given the potential for tester bias (Margolis et al., 2015). In recent years, more precise methods in laboratory studies have been used that control for sources of bias, often at the expense of longer test times. The aim of this pilot study was to compare test-retest variability and time requirement to obtain a full set of hearing thresholds (0.125 – 20 kHz) of the clinical modified Hughson-Westlake (manual) method with that of the automated, modified (single frequency) Békésy tracking method (Lee et al., 2012).

Design:

Hearing thresholds from 10 subjects (8 female) between 19 to 47 years old (mean = 28.3; SD = 9.4) were measured using two methods with identical test hardware and calibration. Thresholds were obtained using the modified Hughson-Westlake (manual) method and the Békésy method (tracking). Measurements using each method were repeated after one-week. Test-retest variability within each measurement method was computed across test sessions. Results from each test method as well as test time across methods were compared.

Results:

Test-retest variability was comparable and statistically indistinguishable between the two test methods. Thresholds were approximately 5 dB lower when measured using the tracking method. This difference was not statistically significant. The manual method of measuring thresholds was faster by approximately 4 minutes. Both methods required less time (~ 2 mins) in the second session as compared to the first.

Conclusion:

Hearing thresholds obtained using the manual method can be just as reliable as those obtained using the tracking method over the large frequency range explored here (0.125 – 20 kHz). These results perhaps point to the importance of equivalent and valid calibration techniques that can overcome frequency dependent discrepancies, most prominent at higher frequencies, in the sound pressure delivered to the ear.
Changes in the Compressive Nonlinearity of the Cochlea During Early Aging: Estimates From Distortion OAE Input/Output Functions
Authors: Ortmann Amanda J. , Abdala Carolina
Published: May 2016

Objectives:

The level-dependent growth of distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) provides an indirect metric of cochlear compressive nonlinearity. Recent evidence suggests that aging reduces nonlinear distortion emissions more than those associated with linear reflection. Therefore, in this study, we generate input/output (I/O) functions from the isolated distortion component of the DPOAE to probe the effects of early aging on the compressive nonlinearity of the cochlea.

Design:

Thirty adults whose ages ranged from 18 to 64 years participated in this study, forming a continuum of young to middle-age subjects. When necessary for analyses, subjects were divided into a young-adult group with a mean age of 21 years, and a middle-aged group with a mean age of 52 years. All young-adult subjects and 11 of the middle-aged subjects had normal hearing; 4 middle-aged ears had slight audiometric threshold elevation at mid-to-high frequencies. DPOAEs (2f
1 − f
2) were recorded using primary tones swept upward in frequency from 0.5 to 8 kHz, and varied from 25 to 80 dB sound pressure level. The nonlinear distortion component of the total DPOAE was separated and used to create I/O functions at one-half octave intervals from 1.3 to 7.4 kHz. Four features of OAE compression were extracted from a fit to these functions: compression threshold, range of compression, compression slope, and low-level growth. These values were compared between age groups and correlational analyses were conducted between OAE compression threshold and age with audiometric threshold controlled.

Results:

Older ears had reduced DPOAE amplitude compared with young-adult ears. The OAE compression threshold was elevated at test frequencies above 2 kHz in the middle-aged subjects by 19 dB (35 versus 54 dB SPL), thereby reducing the compression range. In addition, middle-aged ears showed steeper amplitude growth beyond the compression threshold. Audiometric threshold was initially found to be a confound in establishing the relationship between compression and age; however, statistical analyses allowed us to control its variance. Correlations performed while controlling for age differences in high-frequency audiometric thresholds showed significant relationships between the DPOAE I/O compression threshold and age: Older subjects tended to have elevated compression thresholds compared with younger subjects and an extended range of monotonic growth.

Conclusions:

Cochlear manifestations of nonlinearity, such as the DPOAE, weaken during early aging, and DPOAE I/O functions become linearized. Commensurate changes in high-frequency audiometric thresholds are not sufficient to fully explain these changes. The results suggest that age-related changes in compressive nonlinearity could produce a reduced dynamic range of hearing, and contribute to perceptual difficulties in older listeners.
Primary Care Availability, Safety Net Clinics, and Health Insurance Coverage
Authors: Murty Sharanya , Begley Charles E. , Franzini Luisa , Swint J. Michael
Published: May 2016

The objective of the study was to examine the relationship between physician/safety net availability and health insurance coverage and preventable hospitalizations (PHs) in nonelderly adults in an urban area. Preventable conditions (PHs) were identified for nonelderly adults in Harris County using the Texas Health Care Information Collection hospital database. Multivariable logistic regression models examined the association of health insurance and patient proximity to physicians and safety net clinics with the risk of a PH. Safety net availability reduced PH risk by 23% (P < .05) but only among the uninsured. Lack of health insurance increased PH risk by 30% (P < .05).
Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Lung Cancer Screening Health Belief Scales
Authors: Carter-Harris Lisa , Slaven James E. , Monohan Patrick , Rawl Susan M.
Published: May 2016

Background:

Lung cancer screening is a recent recommendation for long-term smokers. Understanding individual health beliefs about screening is a critical component in future efforts to facilitate patient-provider conversations about screening participation.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to describe the development and psychometric testing of 4 new scales to measure lung cancer screening health beliefs (perceived risk, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy).

Methods:

In phase I, 4 scales were developed from extensive literature review, item modification from existing Breast and Colorectal Cancer Screening Health Belief Scales, focus groups with long-term smokers, and evaluation/feedback from a panel of 10 content experts. In phase II, we conducted a survey of 497 long-term smokers to assess the final scales’ reliability and validity.

Results:

Phase I: content validity was established with the content expert panel. Phase II: internal consistency reliability of the scales was supported with Cronbach’s α’s ranging from .88 to .92. Construct validity was established with confirmatory factor analysis and testing for differences between screeners and nonscreeners in theoretically proposed directions.

Conclusions:

Initial testing supports the scales are valid and reliable. These new scales can help investigators identify long-term smokers more likely to screen for lung cancer and are useful for the development and testing of behavioral interventions regarding lung cancer screening.

Implications for Practice:

Development of effective interventions to enhance shared decision making about lung cancer screening between patients and providers must first identify factors influencing the individual’s screening participation. Future efforts facilitating patient-provider conversations are better informed by understanding the perspective of the individual making the decision.
Assessment of Genomic Literacy Among Baccalaureate Nursing Students in the United States
Authors: Ward Linda D. , Purath Janet , Barbosa-Leiker Celestina
Published: May 2016

The implementation of genomic nursing education should be based on evidence, comparing what students know about genetics and genomics with what they need to know. In this multisite feasibility study, a standardized inventory of genetic-genomic knowledge was administered to students in 14 baccalaureate nursing programs. Data contribute to instrument validation, provide a snapshot of genetic-genomic knowledge among US nursing students, and inform planning for a large, multisite study.
Assessing Scleral Contact Lens Satisfaction in a Keratoconus Population
Authors: Bergmanson Jan P. G. , Walker Maria K. , Johnson Leah A.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

To assess perceived comfort and related experiences of adapted keratoconic scleral contact lens (17–18.2 mm) wearers with a history of wearing other contact lens modalities and to compare these subjective clinical effects with previous experiences.

Methods

Twenty-four keratocones were recruited, signed an informed consent approved by the University Internal Review Board, and were asked to complete a survey and a dry eye questionnaire.

Results

Previous lens wearing experience included soft, piggy back, and hybrid lenses but predominantly was corneal gas permeable. An overwhelming majority strongly preferred the comfort and vision with the scleral contact lenses. This cohort of keratoconus patients were on average dry eye suspects according to a dry eye questionnaire but contained individuals with either normal or significantly dry eye scores. However, patients stated that they experienced less dryness with their scleral lenses, but slightly more than half of these patients experienced, at least occasionally, midday fogging.

Conclusions

The scleral contact lenses are extremely well accepted by keratoconic patients because of comfort and vision these devices provide. For many patients, they offer further relief from dryness symptoms. However, midday fogging remains a limitation for many wearers.
Peripapillary RNFL Thickness Changes after Panretinal Photocoagulation
Authors: Yazdani Shahin , Samadi Poorya , Pakravan Mohammad , Esfandiari Hamed , Ghahari Elham , Nourinia Ramin
Published: May 2016

Purpose

To evaluate changes in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness as determined by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) after panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).

Methods

Forty-two eyes of 42 diabetic patients who were scheduled for PRP were enrolled in this interventional case series. Peripapillary RNFL thickness was measured using SD-OCT (OCT 1000; Topcon Co., Tokyo, Japan) at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months after PRP.

Results

Mean global RNFL thickness was increased significantly by 3 μm (p = 0.04) 1 month after PRP and was then decreased marginally significantly by 2.4 μm at 6 months (p = 0.054) as compared to baseline values. After 1 month, RNFL thickness was increased in all quadrants, but only changes in the temporal quadrant were significant (p = 0.009). At 6 months, progressive RNFL thinning occurred in all quadrants; however, only changes in the superior quadrant were significant (p = 0.041). Visual acuity was improved by an average of 0.02 logMAR after 6 months, but this change was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Shortly after PRP, RNFL thickness (as determined by SD-OCT) increases, but a decrease in RNFL thickness occurs at 6 months post-PRP. RNFL thickness changes based on OCT should be interpreted with caution in diabetic eyes undergoing PRP.
Contact Lens-Induced Discomfort and Protein Changes in Tears
Authors: Masoudi Simin , Stapleton Fiona Jane , Willcox Mark Duncan Perry
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Ocular discomfort is among the main causes of contact lens wear discontinuation. This study investigated the association between subjective ocular comfort ratings and diurnal changes in tear protein concentrations with and without contact lens wear.

Methods

The study was a prospective, open-label, single-group two-staged investigation. Basal tears were collected from 30 experienced contact lens wearers twice a day (morning and evening) using a noninvasive method without lens wear (stage 1) and during wear of Etafilcon A contact lenses (stage 2) for 7 to 10 days. Subjects rated their ocular comfort on a scale of 1 to 100 (with 100 as extremely comfortable) at each time of tear collection. Tears were analyzed using liquid quadrupole mass spectrometry in conjunction with selected reaction monitoring (SRM) method.

Results

End-of-day comfort was reduced when wearing lenses (87.8 ± 14.3 AM vs. 79.2 ± 16.6 PM) compared to no lens wear (88.3 ± 12.6 AM vs. 84.7 ± 13.3 PM) (AM vs. PM, p < 0.05). A greater reduction in comfort over the day was seen during lens wear (p < 0.01). The concentration of prolactin-induced protein increased from morning to evening in both stages (mean ± SD; 0.08 ± 0.04 mg/ml, AM vs. 0.09 ± 0.05 mg/ml, PM, p < 0.05). There was no change in the concentration of lactoferrin (1.20 ± 0.77 mg/ml), lysozyme (2.11 ± 1.50 mg/ml), lipocalin 1 (1.75 ± 0.99 mg/ml), or proline-rich protein 4 (0.80 ± 0.49 mg/ml). The prolactin-induced protein concentration was negatively associated with discomfort levels in tears (p < 0.05, r = −0.29).

Conclusions

Only the absolute concentration of prolactin-induced protein correlated with subjective comfort ratings. Taking into consideration that prolactin-induced protein can be associated with disruption in water transport in lacrimal glands, our findings may indicate that changes to aqueous secretion are associated with contact lens discomfort.
The Effects of Age, Refractive Status, and Luminance on Pupil Size
Authors: Guillon Michel , Dumbleton Kathryn , Theodoratos Panagiotis , Gobbe Marine , Wooley C. Benjamin , Moody Kurt
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Pupil size is critical for optimal performance of presbyopic contact lenses. Although the effect of luminance is well known, little information is available regarding other contributing factors such as aging and refractive status.

Methods

The cohort population comprised 304 patients (127 male, 177 female) aged 18 to 78 years. Pupils were photographed at three controlled luminance levels 250, 50, and 2.5 cd/m2 using an infra-red macro video camera. Measurements of pupil diameter were conducted after transforming pixel values to linear values in millimeters.

Results

Luminance was the most influential factor with pupil diameter increasing with decreased luminance (p < 0.001, all comparisons). Age was also found to be a significant factor with a smaller diameter in the older groups, but overall the difference was only significant between the pre-presbyopes and the established presbyopes (p = 0.017). Pupil diameter decreased significantly with increasing age, the effect being most marked at low luminance (<0.001). The smallest pupil diameters were measured for hyperopes and the largest for myopes and although refractive error was not a significant factor alone, there was a significant interaction between luminance and refractive error with the greatest differences in pupil diameter between myopes and emmetropes at low luminance (p < 0.001). Pupil diameter changes modeled by multilinear regression (p < 0.001) identified age, luminance, best sphere refraction, and refractive error as significant factors accounting for just over 70% of the average variation in pupil diameter.

Conclusions

Both age and refractive status were found to affect pupil size with larger pupils measured for younger patients and myopes. Designs for multifocal contact lens corrections should take both age and refractive status into consideration; a faster progression from distance to near corrections across the optical zone of the lens is expected to be required for established presbyopes and hyperopes than it is for early presbyopes, myopes, and emmetropes.
Who Needs to Be Targeted for HIV Testing and Treatment in KwaZulu-Natal? Results From a Population-Based Survey
Authors: Huerga Helena , Van Cutsem Gilles , Ben Farhat Jihane , Reid Matthew , Bouhenia Malika , Maman David , Wiesner Lubbe , Etard Jean-François , Ellman Tom
Published: May 2016

Introduction:

Identifying gaps in HIV testing and treatment is essential to design specific strategies targeting those not accessing HIV services. We assessed the prevalence and factors associated with being HIV untested, unaware, untreated, and virally unsuppressed in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Methods:

Cross-sectional population-based survey. People aged 15–59 years were eligible. Interviews, HIV testing, and blood collection for antiretroviral drug presence test, CD4, and viral load were done at the participants' home.

Results:

Of the 5649 individuals included, 81.4% (95% CI: 79.8 to 82.9) had previously been tested. HIV prevalence was 25.2%. HIV-positivity awareness rate was 75.2% (95% CI: 72.9 to 77.4). Of all unaware, 73.3% of people were aged <35 years and 68.7% were women. Antiretroviral therapy coverage was 75.0% (95% CI: 72.0 to 77.8) among those eligible for treatment (CD4 < 350, PMTCT-B) and 53.1% (95% CI: 50.4 to 55.7) among all HIV-positive individuals. Viral load was <1000 copies per milliliter in 57.1% of all HIV-positive individuals. Although 66.3% and 71.7% of people with viral load ≥1000 copies per milliliter were people aged <35 years and women respectively, men had 4.4, 1.8, 1.6, and 1.7 times the odds of being untested, unaware, untreated, and virally unsuppressed. In addition, people with more than 1 sexual partner had 1.3, 2.2, and 1.9 times the odds of being untested, unaware, and untreated.

Conclusions:

The majority of HIV-positive people unaware of their status, untreated, and virally unsuppressed were individuals aged <35 years and women. However, men were disproportionately untested, unaware HIV positivity, untreated, and virally unsuppressed. In this context, HIV testing and treatment should be prioritized to target young people and women, whereas novel strategies are necessary to reach men.
Bringing Elton and Grinnell Together: a quantitative framework to represent the biogeography of ecological interaction networks
Authors: Gravel Dominique , Baiser Benjamin , Dunne Jennifer A. , Kopelke Jens-Peter , Martinez Neo D. , Nyman Tommi , Poisot Timothée , Stouffer Daniel B. , Tylianakis Jason M. , Wood Spencer A. , Rosling Tomas
Published: May 2016

Biogeography has traditionally focused on the spatial distribution and abundance of species. Both are driven by the way species interact with one another, but also by the way these interactions vary across time and space. Here, we call for an integrated approach, adopting the view that community structure is best represented as a network of ecological interactions, and show how it translates to biogeography questions. We propose that the ecological niche should encompass the effect of the environment on species distribution (the Grinnellian dimension of the niche) and on the ecological interactions among them (the Eltonian dimension). Starting from this concept, we develop a quantitative theory to explain turnover of interactions in space and timei.e. a novel approach to interaction distribution modelling. We apply this framework to host parasite interactions across Europe and find that two aspects of the environment (temperature and precipitation) exert a strong imprint on species co-occurrence, but not on species interactions. Even where species co-occur, interaction proves to be stochastic rather than deterministic, adding to variation in realized network structure. We also find that a large majority of host-parasite pairs are never found together, thus precluding any inferences regarding their probability to interact. This first attempt to explain variation of network structure at large spatial scales opens new perspectives at the interface of species distribution modelling and community ecology.
Could a Neuroscientist Understand a Microprocessor?
Authors: Jonas Eric , Paul Kording Konrad
Published: May 2016

There is a popular belief in neuroscience that we are primarily data limited, and that producing large, multimodal, and complex datasets will, with the help of advanced data analysis algorithms, lead to fundamental insights into the way the brain processes information. These datasets do not yet exist, and if they did we would have no way of evaluating whether or not the algorithmically-generated insights were sufficient or even correct. To address this, here we take a classical microprocessor as a model organism, and use our ability to perform arbitrary experiments on it to see if popular data analysis methods from neuroscience can elucidate the way it processes information. Microprocessors are among those artificial information processing systems that are both complex and that we understand at all levels, from the overall logical flow, via logical gates, to the dynamics of transistors. We show that the approaches reveal interesting structure in the data but do not meaningfully describe the hierarchy of information processing in the microprocessor. This suggests current analytic approaches in neuroscience may fall short of producing meaningful understanding of neural systems, regardless of the amount of data. Additionally, we argue for scientists using complex non-linear dynamical systems with known ground truth, such as the microprocessor as a validation platform for time-series and structure discovery methods.

Author Summary

Neuroscience is held back by the fact that it is hard to evaluate if a conclusion is correct; the complexity of the systems under study and their experimental inaccessability make the assessment of algorithmic and data analytic technqiues challenging at best. We thus argue for testing approaches using known artifacts, where the correct interpretation is known. Here we present a microprocessor platform as one such test case. We find that many approaches in neuroscience, when used na•vely, fall short of producing a meaningful understanding.
Report of Partial findings from the National Toxicology Program Carcinogenesis Studies of Cell Phone Radiofrequency Radiation in Hsd: Sprague Dawley®SD rats (Whole Body Exposures)
Authors: Wyde Michael , Cesta Mark , Blystone Chad , Elmore Susan , Foster Paul , Hooth Michelle , Kissling Grace , Malarkey David , Sills Robert , Stout Matthew , Walker Nigel , Witt Kristine , Wolfe Mary , Bucher John
Published: May 2016

The U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP) has carried out extensive rodent toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) at frequencies and modulations used in the U.S. telecommunications industry. This report presents partial findings from these studies. The occurrences of two tumor types in male Harlan Sprague Dawley rats exposed to RFR, malignant gliomas in the brain and schwannomas of the heart, were considered of particular interest and are the subject of this report. The findings in this report were reviewed by expert peer reviewers selected by the NTP and National Institutes of Health (NIH). These reviews and responses to comments are included as appendices to this report, and revisions to the current document have incorporated and addressed these comments. When the studies are completed, they will undergo additional peer review before publication in full as part of the NTP’s Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Technical Reports Series. No portion of this work has been submitted for publication in a scientific journal. Supplemental information in the form of four additional manuscripts has or will soon be submitted for publication. These manuscripts describe in detail the designs and performance of the RFR exposure system, the dosimetry of RFR exposures in rats and mice, the results to a series of pilot studies establishing the ability of the animals to thermoregulate during RFR exposures, and studies of DNA damage. (1) Capstick M, Kuster N, Kühn S, Berdinas-Torres V, Wilson P, Ladbury J, Koepke G, McCormick D, Gauger J, and Melnick R. A radio frequency radiation reverberation chamber exposure system for rodents; (2) Yijian G, Capstick M, McCormick D, Gauger J, Horn T, Wilson P, Melnick RL, and Kuster N. Life time dosimetric assessment for mice and rats exposed to cell phone radiation; (3) Wyde ME, Horn TL, Capstick M, Ladbury J, Koepke G, Wilson P, Stout MD, Kuster N, Melnick R, Bucher JR, and McCormick D. Pilot studies of the National Toxicology Program’s cell phone radiofrequency radiation reverberation chamber exposure system; (4) Smith-Roe SL, Wyde ME, Stout MD, Winters J, Hobbs CA, Shepard KG, Green A, Kissling GE, Tice RR, Bucher JR, and Witt KL. Evaluation of the genotoxicity of cell phone radiofrequency radiation in male and female rats and mice following subchronic exposure.
Modelling of cation displacements in SrTiO3by means of multi-energy anomalous X-ray diffuse scattering
Authors: Kopecký Miloš , Fábry Jan , Kub Jiří
Published: May 2016

X-ray diffuse scattering of SrTiO3has been measured at two photon energies, the first just below the absorption edge and the second far from theKabsorption edge of strontium, in order to vary the atomic scattering factor of the strontium cations. It is shown that two different models of cation displacement comply with the single-energy diffuse scattering patterns, because single-energy diffuse scattering provides only ambiguous information on the directions of displacement of the Sr2+and Ti4+cations. However, the application of multi-energy anomalous diffuse scattering determines unambiguously that the Sr2+cations are moved from their ideal positions in the [100] direction and the Ti4+cations are shifted in {111} directions.
The high-resolution absorption spectroscopy branch on the VUV beamline DESIRS at SOLEIL
Authors: de Oliveira Nelson , Joyeux Denis , Roudjane Mourad , Gil Jean-François , Pilette Bertrand , Archer Lucy , Ito Kenji , Nahon Laurent
Published: May 2016

A VUV absorption spectroscopy facility designed for ultra-high spectral resolution is in operation as a dedicated branch on the DESIRS beamline at Synchrotron SOLEIL. This branch includes a unique VUV Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) and a dedicated versatile gas sample chamber. The FTS instrument can cover a large UV–VUV spectral range from 4 to 30 eV, with an ultimate line width of 0.08 cm−1on a large spectral window, ΔE/E= 7%, over which all spectral features can be acquired in a multiplex way. The performance can be considered to be a middle ground between broadband moderate-resolution spectrometers based on gratings and ultra-high-spectral-resolution VUV tunable-laser-based techniques over very narrow spectral windows. The various available gaseous-sample-handling setups, which function over a wide range of pressures and temperatures, and the acquisition methodology are described. A selection of experimental results illustrates the performance and limitations of the FTS-based facility.
Local structure in the disordered solid solution ofcis- andtrans-perinones
Authors: Teteruk Jaroslav L. , Glinnemann Jürgen , Heyse Winfried , Johansson Kristoffer E. , van de Streek Jacco , Schmidt Martin U.
Published: May 2016

Thecis- andtrans-isomers of the polycyclic aromatic compound perinone, C26H12N4O2, form a solid solution (Vat Red 14). This solid solution is isotypic to the crystal structures ofcis-perinone (Pigment Red 194) andtrans-perinone (Pigment Orange 34) and exhibits a combined positional and orientational disorder: In the crystal, each molecular position is occupied by either acis- ortrans-perinone molecule, both of which have two possible molecular orientations. The structure ofcis-perinone exhibits a twofold orientational disorder, whereas the structure oftrans-perinone is ordered. The crystal structure of the solid solution was determined by single-crystal X-ray analysis. Extensive lattice-energy minimizations with force-field and DFT-D methods were carried out on combinatorially complete sets of ordered models. For the disordered systems, local structures were calculated, including preferred local arrangements, ordering lengths, and probabilities for the arrangement of neighbouring molecules. The superposition of the atomic positions of all energetically favourable calculated models corresponds well with the experimentally determined crystal structures, explaining not only the atomic positions, but also the site occupancies and anisotropic displacement parameters.
New insight on bismuth cuprates with incommensurate modulated structures
Authors: Mironov Andrei V. , Petříček Vaclav , Khasanova Nellie R. , Antipov Evgeny V.
Published: May 2016

The incommensurate modulated crystal structure of Bi2.27Sr1.73CuO6 + δ(2201) phase [a= 5.3874 (5),b= 5.3869 (4),c= 24.579 (3) Å; β = 90.01 (1)°,q= 0.2105 (3)a* + 0.538 (4)c*,Z= 4, the (3 + 1)-dimensional monoclinicA2/a(α0γ) group] has been refined withR= 0.041,wR= 0.052 from X-ray single-crystal data including up to third-order satellite reflections. The same structure has also been considered as incommensurate composite witha2= 2.437,b2= 5.387,c2= 24.614, β2= 93.06,q2= 0.4524a2*−0.243c2*and the (3 + 1)-dimensionalA2/m(α0γ)0sgroup for the second component. Both approaches give quite similar results. The structure possesses oxygen disorder in the oxygen-rich region of the BiO layer. An extra O atom is determined in the bridging position shifted ∼ 0.6 Å from BiO towards the SrO layer. Its presence is the cause of the tremendous increase of the bismuthU11atomic displacement parameter in ∼ 20% of the unit cells (t= −0.05–0.15). Vacancies are determined in the oxygen site of the SrO layer, which may result in the oxygen content variation with annealing at different oxygen pressures. The total refined oxygen content 6.18 (1) corresponds to the results of chemical analysis.
High-pressure studies of three polymorphs of a palladium(II) oxathioether macrocyclic complex
Authors: Tidey Jeremiah P. , Wong Henry L. S. , McMaster Jonathan , Schröder Martin , Blake Alexander J.
Published: May 2016

The three reported phases of the mononuclear macrocyclic PdIIcomplex [PdCl2([9]aneS2O)] [(1); [9]aneS2O = 1-oxa-4,7-dithiacyclononane] were each studied up to pressures exceeding 9 GPa using high-pressure single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The α- and γ-phases both exhibit smooth compression of the unit-cell parameters with third-order Birch–Murnaghan bulk moduli of 14.4 (8) and 7.6 (6) GPa, respectively. Between 6.81 and 6.87 GPa β-[PdCl2([9]aneS2O)] was found to undergo a reversible transition to a phase denoted as β′ and characterized by a tripling of the unit-cell volume. Across the phase transition, rearrangement of the conformation of the bound macrocycle at two of the resulting three unique sites gives rise to an extensively disordered structure.