bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progradation Speed of Tide‐Dominated Tidal Flats Decreases Stronger Than Linearly With Decreasing Sediment Availability and Linearly With Sea Level Rise
Authors: Maan D. C. , van Prooijen B. C. , Wang Z. B.
Published: December 2018

We use the results of a one‐dimensional morphodynamic model and the basis of the “Lagrangian equilibrium state” (Maan et al., 2015, https://doi.org/10.1002/2014JF003311) to derive a quantitative relationship between the progradation speed of tidal flats and the suspended sediment concentration in their adjacent waters and show that the speed increases more than linearly with the concentration. We also show that horizontally prograding flats rise vertically with sea level rise at the expense of their horizontal speed via a linear relationship. If accretion rates are insufficient to keep up with sea level rise, however, the intertidal flat submerges and retreats landward at the same time. We apply the obtained relationships to the Yangtze Estuary to estimate the critical sediment concentration level below which a shift from progradation to retreat can be expected.
TGF-β downregulation-induced cancer cell death is finely regulated by the SAPK signaling cascade
Authors: Han Zhezhu , Kang Dongxu , Joo Yeonsoo , Lee Jihyun , Oh Geun-Hyeok , Choi Soojin , Ko Suwan , Je Suyeon , Choi Hye Jin , Song Jae J.
Published: December 2018

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling is increasingly recognized as a key driver in cancer. In progressive cancer tissues, TGF-β promotes tumor formation, and its increased expression often correlates with cancer malignancy. In this study, we utilized adenoviruses expressing short hairpin RNAs against TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 to investigate the role of TGF-β downregulation in cancer cell death. We found that the downregulation of TGF-β increased the phosphorylation of several SAPKs, such as p38 and JNK. Moreover, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was also increased by TGF-β downregulation, which triggered Akt inactivation and NOX4 increase-derived ROS in a cancer cell-type-specific manner. We also revealed the possibility of substantial gene fluctuation in response to TGF-β downregulation related to SAPKs. The expression levels of Trx and GSTM1, which encode inhibitory proteins that bind to ASK1, were reduced, likely a result of the altered translocation of Smad complex proteins rather than from ROS production. Instead, both ROS and ROS-mediated ER stress were responsible for the decrease in interactions between ASK1 and Trx or GSTM1. Through these pathways, ASK1 was activated and induced cytotoxic tumor cell death via p38/JNK activation and (or) induction of ER stress.
First report of vampyrellid predator–prey dynamics in a marine system
Authors: Alves-de-Souza Catharina , Benevides Tatiane S , Menezes Mariângela , Jeanthon Christian , Guillou Laure
Published: December 2018

We report for the first time the in situ dynamics of a vampyrellid in a marine system. A high sampling frequency (twice-weekly) was applied in a tropical eutrophic lagoon (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) for 5 years (2012–2016). The vampyrellid Hyalodiscus sp. specifically fed on the diatom Chaetoceros minimus during a short time window (~3 months), although the prey was intermittently detected as the dominant phytoplanktonic species over a longer period (~1 year). A classic Lotka–Volterra predator–prey dynamic was observed between the two partners, with a significant modification of the short-term oscillations of the prey. Specific abiotic preferences (i.e., relatively low temperature, intermediate salinity, and stratified conditions) associated with prey availability seemed to define this narrow temporal window of occurrence. Our results suggest that vampyrellids can be ecologically relevant in marine pelagic systems, with their impact on planktonic dynamics strongly depending on complex interactions between both biotic and abiotic factors.
Climate impacts and Arctic precursors of changing storm track activity in the Atlantic-Eurasian region
Authors: Schlichtholz Pawel
Published: December 2018

Midlatitude storm tracks are preferred regions of intense activity of synoptic eddies shaping the day-to-day weather and several aspects of surface climate. Here statistical analyses of observationally-based atmospheric data and observed Arctic sea ice concentration (SIC) in the period 1979–2017 are used to identify linkages of a dominant mode of interannual variability in wintertime upper-tropospheric storm track activity over Eurasia (STAEA mode) to the concurrent surface climate anomalies and pre-winter Arctic SIC variations. This mode explains an exceptionally large fraction (about 70% of the variance) of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and of a dominant mode of Eurasian surface air temperature variations. As more than 50% of the variance of the STAEA mode and NAO is found to be accounted for by October SIC anomalies in the Barents/Kara Sea, it is concluded that wintertime Eurasian climate variability is to some extent predictable and that this predictability might have increased after an acceleration of the sea ice cover decline in the mid 2000s. These conclusions are supported by results from leave-1-yr-out cross-validated forecast experiments.
Effects of HIV on executive function and verbal fluency in Cameroon
Authors: Kanmogne Georgette D. , Fonsah Julius Y. , Tang Bin , Doh Roland F. , Kengne Anne M. , Umlauf Anya , Tagny Claude T. , Nchindap Emilienne , Kenmogne Léopoldine , Franklin Donald , Njamnshi Dora M. , Mbanya Dora , Njamnshi Alfred K. , Heaton Robert K.
Published: December 2018

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) are frequently associated with impaired executive function and verbal fluency. Given limited knowledge concerning HAND in Sub-Saharan-Africa and lack of Cameroonian adult neuropsychological (NP) test norms, we administered four executive function [Halstead Category Test (HCT), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Color Trails-II (CTT2), and Stroop Color-Word-Interference (SCWT)] and three verbal fluency (Category, Action, and Letter Fluency) tests to 742 adult Cameroonians (395 HIV−, 347 HIV+). We developed demographically-corrected NP test norms and examined the effects of HIV and related variables on subjects’ executive function and verbal fluency. HIV+ subjects had significantly lower T-scores on CTT2 (P = 0.005), HCT (P = 0.032), WCST (P < 0.001); lower executive function composite (P = 0.002) and Action Fluency (P = 0.03) T-scores. ART, viremia, and CD4 counts did not affect T-scores. Compared to cases harboring other viral subtypes, subjects harboring HIV-1 CRF02_AG had marginally higher CTT2 T-scores, significantly higher SCWT (P = 0.015) and executive function (P = 0.018) T-scores. Thus, HIV-1 infection in Cameroon is associated with impaired executive function and some aspects of verbal fluency, and viral genotype influenced executive function. We report the first normative data for assessing executive function and verbal fluency in adult Cameroonians and provide regression-based formulas for computing demographically-adjusted T-scores. These norms will be useful for investigating HIV/AIDS and other diseases affecting cognitive functioning in Cameroon.
Yiqi Fumai lyophilized injection attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats by inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis
Authors: Gu Yue , Ju Aichun , Jiang Bingjie , Zhang Jingze , Man Shuli , Liu Changxiao , Gao Wenyuan
Published: December 2018

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most effective antineoplastic drugs, however, its organ toxicity inhibits the clinical utility.
First identification of PODXL nonsense mutations in autosomal dominant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Lin Fu-Jun , Yao Lei , Hu Xue-Qing , Bian Fan , Ji Gang , Jiang Geng-Ru , Gale Daniel P. , Ren Hong-Qi
Published: December 2018

Recently, a novel heterozygous missense mutation c.T1421G (p. L474R) in the PODXL gene encoding podocalyxin was identified in an autosomal dominant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (AD-FSGS) pedigree. However, this PODXL mutation appeared not to impair podocalyxin function, and it is necessary to identify new PODXL mutations and determine their causative role for FSGS. In the present study, we report the identification of a heterozygous nonsense PODXL mutation (c.C976T; p. Arg326X) in a Chinese pedigree featured by proteinuria and renal insufficiency with AD inheritance by whole exome sequencing (WES). Total mRNA and PODXL protein abundance were decreased in available peripheral blood cell samples of two affected patients undergoing hemodialysis, compared with those in healthy controls and hemodialysis controls without PODXL mutation. We identified another novel PODXL heterozygous nonsense mutation (c.C1133G; p.Ser378X) in a British–Indian pedigree of AD-FSGS by WES. In vitro study showed that, human embryonic kidney 293T cells transfected with the pEGFP-PODXL-Arg326X or pEGFP-PODXL-Ser378X plasmid expressed significantly lower mRNA and PODXL protein compared with cells transfected with the wild-type plasmid. Blocking nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) significantly restored the amount of mutant mRNA and PODXL proteins, which indicated that the pathogenic effect of PODXL nonsense mutations is likely due to NMD, resulting in podocalyxin deficiency. Functional consequences caused by the PODXL nonsense mutations were inferred by siRNA knockdown in cultured podocytes and podocalyxin down-regulation by siRNA resulted in decreased RhoA and ezrin activities, cell migration and stress fiber formation. Our results provided new data implicating heterozygous PODXL nonsense mutations in the development of FSGS.
The Development of American Sign Language–Based Analogical Reasoning in Signing Deaf Children
Authors: Henner Jon , Novogrodsky Rama , Caldwell-Harris Catherine , Hoffmeister Robert
Published: December 2018

Purpose

This article examines whether syntactic and vocabulary abilities in American Sign Language (ASL) facilitate 6 categories of language-based analogical reasoning.

Method

Data for this study were collected from 267 deaf participants, aged 7;6 (years;months) to 18;5. The data were collected from an ongoing study initially funded by the U.S. Institute of Education Sciences in 2010. The participants were given assessments of ASL vocabulary and syntax knowledge and a task of language-based analogies presented in ASL. The data were analyzed using mixed-effects linear modeling to first see how language-based analogical reasoning developed in deaf children and then to see how ASL knowledge influenced this developmental trajectory.

Results

Signing deaf children were shown to demonstrate language-based reasoning abilities in ASL consistent with both chronological age and home language environment. Notably, when ASL vocabulary and syntax abilities were statistically taken into account, these were more important in fostering the development of language-based analogical reasoning abilities than were chronological age and home language. We further showed that ASL vocabulary ability and ASL syntactic knowledge made different contributions to different analogical reasoning subconstructs.

Conclusions

ASL is a viable language that supports the development of language-based analogical reasoning abilities in deaf children.
Potential for power generation from ocean wave renewable energy source: a comprehensive review on state‐of‐the‐art technology and future prospects
Authors: Mwasilu Francis , Jung Jin‐Woo
Published: December 2018

This study presents a comprehensive review of the ocean wave technology and prospects of the wave energy penetration to cater to clean global energy demand. An ocean wave is a remarkable energy resource, but it presents a very small share in the global energy mix because of various challenges and limitations encountered to unleash its potential. This study evaluates intensively the complex barriers to the ocean energy technology deployment. The existing and prospective major wave energy projects are extensively examined to identify the learned lessons and optimise possible technological solutions to close the gap in the energy market. Furthermore, limiting and motivating factors to foster the global wave energy potential growth are deeply discussed to ignite new research directions and promising solutions. In particular, the wave energy converters as the underpinning enabling technology are fully investigated regarding their technical readiness, reliability, competitiveness and critical challenges. To complete the power equation, possible energy conversion stages, grid connection and integration issues are dealt with in a broad view of the wave energy power system. Eventually, this study aims at providing an updated ocean wave technology review and progress while introducing new research gap to fast‐track contributions in the global energy mix.
Application of an Integrated Risk Assessment Software to Quantify the Life Safety Risk in Building during a Fire
Authors: Krasuski Adam , Pecio Mariusz
Published: December 2018

We develop an integrated probabilistic risk assessment software called Aamks for the purpose of quantifying the life safety level of people present in buildings in the context of fire safety design. The software implements easy to use and computationally efficient quantitative risk assessment method - multisimulation. The method consists in deterministic sub-models and probabilistic techniques for sampling and quantifying the fire safety level by means of failure probabilities, individual and societal risk. Following the theoretical description of the method, a case study of a five storey hotel building 20.000 m2is elaborated and discussed as proof of concept.
Determination of training conditions of fire-fighters in mobile training complexes
Authors: Lusch Vasyl , Loik Vasyl , Lazarenko Oleksandr , Kosiorek Mirosław
Published: December 2018

The conditions created during training of firefighters in the mobile training complex of the Polish company «Egeria group» are considered. Currently, the determination of the parameters of the gas environment created by the combustion of pure propane (C3H8), vaseline oil and nitrogen oxide (N2O) over a period of time remains a problematic issue. At the same time, the conditions, which are created when combustion in such cameras, namely, the approximate temperature, the composition of combustion products, their volume during training in mobile training systems remain unexplored. The determination of the amount of combustion products was carried out by solving the equations for determining the material balance of the process of combustion of propane at the maximum temperature created by the mobile training complex and room temperature. As the calculations performed in the mobile training complex during the burning of propane to obtain a high temperature, the oxygen concentration in the air will remain safe - 20.16%. This will gradually increase the content of СО2, N2 and H2O vapour, since the composition of the products of combustion in the percentage ratio will be: СО2 = 11.63%; H2O = 15.5%; N2 = 72.87%.
Numerical analysis on Smoke and Heat Control System and Sprinkler System in covered car parks
Authors: Fliszkiewicz Mateusz , Kreński Karol
Published: December 2018

We provided numerical analysis using Computational Fluid Dynamics tools to find out the effects of the systems interaction in representative car park building and different configuration of smoke control systems. We conducted the qualitative and quantitative research to obtain the patterns and times of the sprinklers activation. We analysed the influence of Smoke Control System on the effectiveness of the Sprinkler System. As a results of the research we created general conclusions which can be used as a set of guidelines during designing process. Moreover some results can encourage other scientists for further numerical analysis or real scale tests.
Study of water curtain effectiveness to fight against vapours of methyl acetate during uncontrolled release
Authors: Węsierski Tomasz , Majder-Łopatka Małgorzata , Wąsik Wiktor
Published: December 2018

The paper presents results of studies concerning the effectiveness of water curtains in eliminating airborne vapours of methyl acetate. It was found that for methyl acetate the determined effectiveness of water curtains was 13.57 times lower than that of ammonia. In practical terms the absorption rate of methyl acetate vapours equalled to the absorption rate set out for ethanol, but was much lower than for methanol. The obtained results have pointed to the efficiency of water curtains in incidents that comprise uncontrolled release of methyl acetate.
Improvement Priorities: Public Hospital Service Quality
Authors: Dachyar M. , Farizal  , Ti Alicia
Published: December 2018

Patients’ satisfaction in public hospitals in Jakarta is decreased due to the increase participant of outpatients using national health insurance. One of the principle influenced satisfaction is services. The purpose of this research is to get priority improvement of service quality dimension. ServQual method is used to obtain the patient’s perception and expectation gap on hospital services. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) is used to obtain the dimension importance weight. Five experts were involved on choosing the appropriate service dimension. Questionnaires were given to 400 patients. Results showed that the largest gap on overall services dimension and sub-dimension are cleanliness, comfort of check room and bathroom. The weight of importance is included, results show the priority improvement of trust dimension and sub-dimension doctor is checking the patient’s condition correctly.
Identification of Implementation Program of Electricity Competency
Authors: Darmana Ija , Jalinus Nizwardi , Ganefri  , Sukardi
Published: December 2018

This study aims to identify the implementation of technical personnel competency testing program. This study applies the Kirkpatrick model at four levels, namely: 1) the level of satisfaction of participants in the implementation of the program; 2) the level of understanding of the subject by the participants; 3) changes in the professional behavior of the participants in the proficiency tests after their return to work; 4) the impact of changes in the professional behavior of the participants in the skills tests. The identification of assessment instruments for each level is obtained from bibliographic studies relevant to the program. The results of the study concluded that the application of the Kirkpatrick model in this study was as follows: 1) short-term skills testing program; 2) Kirkpatrick model widely used to evaluate program training programs
Relation mutuelle entre Tau et signalisation centrale de l’insuline
Authors: Joly-Amado Aurélie , Gratuze Maud , Benderradji Hamza , Vieau Didier , Buée Luc , Blum David
Published: December 2018

La maladie d’Alzheimer (MA) est une maladie neurodégénérative caractérisée par des déficits cognitifs et des lésions neuropathologiques (agrégats de Tau et plaques amyloïdes), mais également par des troubles métaboliques et neuroendocriniens. Les mécanismes à l’origine de ces processus physiopathologiques demeurent mal compris mais pourraient provenir du développement d’une insulino-résistance centrale. L’altération de l’action de l’insuline dans le cerveau des patients atteints de MA a été décrite comme facteur aggravant les lésions Tau et amyloïdes ainsi que les troubles cognitifs. L’origine de cette résistance centrale est bien moins comprise mais ferait intervenir la protéine Tau, suggérant l’existence d’un cercle vicieux contribuant à l’apparition et à la progression des signes cliniques. La présente revue vise à faire le point sur notre compréhension actuelle du rôle de l’insuline dans le cerveau et de sa relation avec la protéine Tau dans la MA et les Tauopathies.
Bewegung im vertikalen Raum
Authors: Muesse André
Published: December 2018

Für die stationäre Versorgung mag ein Transfer aus dem Rollstuhl auf den Fußboden
oder umgekehrt zunächst wenig alltagstauglich erscheinen. Umso naheliegender ist
die Umsetzung jedoch im häuslichen Setting oder in Wohnbereichen. Der folgende
Beitrag erörtert mögliche Anwendungsbereiche und stellt beispielhaft die
Gestaltung des Interaktionsprozesses dar.
„… und lag in einem tiefen Schlaf“
Authors: Eyrich Alexandra
Published: December 2018

Märchen können Kindern und Jugendlichen dabei helfen, mit Tod und Trauer
umzugehen. Die professionelle Erzählerin Alexandra Eyrich schildert in ihrem
Beitrag ihre Erfahrungen mit Märchentherapie in der außerklinischen
Intensivpflege und wie diese zur Sterbe- und Trauerbegleitung eingesetzt werden
kann.
Results of Reinsertion of the Distal Achilles Tendon
Authors: Lohrer Heinz
Published: December 2018

Background Reattachment of the distal Achilles tendon to the posterior calcaneus following distal Achilles tendon tears/avulsions or after excision of large posterior heel spurs is a challenging task for the orthopaedic surgeon.

Patients/Material and Methods Between 2005 and the end of 2015, 22 patients who underwent repair/reconstruction of a lesion of the distal Achilles tendon were identified from our electronic records. Calcaneal reinsertions were performed following distal Achilles tendon tears/avulsions (n = 15) or following excision of a large symptomatic posterior heel spur (n = 7). The respective outcome was evaluated comparatively using the VISA-A – G (Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles tendon, German version) questionnaire (100 = maximum). Data were collected preoperatively (n = 11/22), and prospectively at three, six, and 12 months postoperatively (n = 5 – 11/22). Two further retrospective follow-ups were performed 12 – 114 and 21 – 149 months postoperatively (n = 17/22 and 22/22, respectively). All data were analysed retrospectively. Complications were searched from the electronic files.

Results Transosseous sutures and different anchor techniques (Panalok®, Corkscrew®, SpeedBridge®) were generally performed. Preoperatively, the VISA-A – G score was 27.3 ± 13.5 (6 – 45) following distal Achilles tendon reinsertions for avulsions and 45.3 ± 49.0 (0 – 100) when reattachment was performed after resection of a large posterior heel spur (p = 0.831). At the final follow-up, VISA-A – G values were 89.4 ± 13.9 (54 – 100) following distal Achilles tendon tear/avulsion and 82.5 ± 24.5 (51 – 100), when Achilles tendons were reattached after posterior heel spur excisions (p = 0.969). There were no complications in the “heel spur group”. In the Achilles tendon tear/avulsion group, four out of seven patients with Panalok® repairs developed a fistula. One patient suffered a thromboembolism. None of these complications affected the long-term outcome.

Conclusions This study demonstrates good long-term outcomes after distal Achilles tendon reinsertion. Knotless double row anchor repair provides a greater area of compression, simplifies and standardises the repair/reconstruction, and provides safety against fistula. These implants are therefore recommended for safe and effective reattachment of the distal Achilles tendon.
Cluster Headache and Other Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias
Authors: McGeeney Brian
Published: December 2018

The trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias are a group of distinct primary headache disorders that share common characteristics of strict unilateral headache often accompanied by unilateral cranial autonomic features. Cluster headache is the most well-known example, but other than neurologists, practitioners often have limited familiarity with these disorders and treatment options. Delays in diagnosis are typical and treatment options remain suboptimal, associated with limited scientific research into these brain disorders. Improved familiarity with core clinical features by health care providers should lead to earlier referral to specialists, and this education is the responsibility of headache medicine specialists. Optimistically, the last few years have seen lobbying for more federal research support in headache medicine and there has been renewed interest by private industry in potential new treatments for trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias.
Migraine and Tension-Type Headache
Authors: Kahriman Azmin , Zhu Shuhan
Published: December 2018

Migraine and tension-type headache (TTH) are common primary disorders that carry significant morbidity and socioeconomic effect. In this article, we will review the epidemiology, presentation, and diagnosis of these disorders. First-line acute treatment for migraine consists of analgesics, triptans, and antiemetics, while nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the mainstay treatment for TTH. Patients with frequent or chronic headaches warrant prophylactic therapy. For migraine, various classes of preventives can be used (β-blockers, tricyclics, antiepileptics, botulinum toxin), with the choice of therapy tailored to the patient's risk factors and symptoms. For TTH, tricyclics have the most evidence as prophylactic therapy. A new class of medication, monoclonal antibodies to calcitonin gene receptor peptide or its receptor, became available in 2018, and is the first class of medication specifically designed to treat migraine. In addition to pharmacotherapy, we will also review nonpharmacologic interventions as well as neuromodulation for migraine.
Method for determination of technical noise contributions to ion motional heating
Authors: Sedlacek J. A. , Stuart J. , Loh W. , McConnell R. , Bruzewicz C. D. , Sage J. M. , Chiaverini J.
Published: December 2018

Microfabricated Paul ion traps show tremendous promise for large-scale quantum information processing. However, motional heating of ions can have a detrimental effect on the fidelity of quantum logic operations in miniaturized, scalable designs. In many experiments, motional heating rates are ascribed solely to anomalous heating, which arises at least in part from electric field noise from the trap surface not attributable to any known mechanisms. Contributions to measured ion heating rates due to technical voltage noise present on the static (DC) and radio frequency (RF) electrodes—i.e., due to voltage sources, amplifiers, and other electrical components—can often be overlooked. We present a reliable method for determining the extent to which motional heating is dominated by technical voltage noise on the DC or RF electrodes. Also, we demonstrate that stray DC electric fields can shift the ion position such that technical noise on the RF electrode can significantly contribute to the motional heating rate. After minimizing the pseudopotential gradient experienced by the ion induced by stray DC electric fields, the motional heating due to RF technical noise can be significantly reduced.
Analysis on the influence of the multiple scattering effect on millimeter-wave cirrus measurements
Authors: Wang Jinhu , Chen Hao , Ge Junxiang , Wei Ming , Chen Hongbin , Zhu Jun , Chen Jinghua
Published: December 2018

To study the role of the multiple scattering effect of ice particles when retrieving the microphysical parameters of cirrus using millimeter-wave radar, spherical and non-spherical ice particle models with gamma size distributions were first established. Then, the XFDTD (X Finite Difference Time Domain) software, GMM (Generalized Multi-particle Mie) and simple addition method were used to calculate the radar cross section (RCS) values for the ice particle models at 94 GHz. For spherical raindrop models, the RCS values computed using the simple addition method are smaller than those computed using the XFDTD software and GMM algorithm. The maximum absolute difference reached 10.94 dB for ice particles in a volume of 0.1 m3 and 10.493 dB in a volume of 0.2 m3. For non-spherical raindrop models, the absolute difference between the XFDTD and the simple addition method was 1.632 dB for ice particles in a volume of 0.1 m3 and 3.971 dB in a volume of 0.2 m3. When the ice water content was constant, the radar reflectivity factor of the ice particles computed using the XFDTD was larger than that computed with the simple addition method, with an absolute difference of 1.351 dB in a volume of 0.1 m3 and 1.118 dB in a volume of 0.2 m3.
Influence of magnetic filter and magnetic cage in negative ion production in helicon oxygen plasma
Authors: Sharma N. , Chakraborty M. , Neog N. K. , Bandyopadhyay M.
Published: December 2018

Negative ion rich oxygen plasma at low pressure is produced in a Helicon Plasma Source setup, which is primarily designed to perform electronegative gas plasma experiments including the studies of ion-ion plasma. The negative ion fraction and hence the negative ion density are obtained by using a two probe technique in which the electron current is obtained by using an RF compensated cylindrical Langmuir probe and positive ion saturation current is obtained by using an RF compensated planar probe. By measuring the negative ion fraction, both with and without a magnetic filter, the importance of the magnetic filter field in the production of negative ions in oxygen plasma is investigated. The maximum value of negative ion fraction α (n−/ne) is calculated to be approximately around 9 when the value of temperature ratio γ (Te/T−) is taken as 10. The observed negative ion fraction and other plasma parameters are explained by considering the set of reactions that are involved in the production and loss of negative ions.
Plasmonic array paves way forward for more efficient directional white light generation
Authors: Liebendorfer Adam
Published: December 2018

Combination of blue laser and yellow phosphor plate with aluminum nanocylinder array has yielded up to sevenfold increases in white light intensity enhancement.
Natural flow events influence the behaviour and movement patterns of eel-tailed catfish (Tandanus tandanus) in a subtropical Queensland river
Authors: Burndred Kate R. , Cockayne Bernie J. , Donaldson James A. , Ebner Brendan C.
Published: December 2018

Understanding the movement ecology of freshwater fishes, and how these patterns are affected by flow, is important for identifying key threats to populations and predicting their response to management strategies. We used acoustic telemetry to investigate the day-to-day behaviour and movement patterns of eel-tailed catfish (Tandanus tandanus) and examine how their behaviour was affected by natural changes to the flow regime in a subtropical river. Movement patterns varied within the tagged population: 29% were sedentary, 64% undertook interpool movements and 7% undertook reach-scale movements. The mean maximum distance travelled was 0.75km (±0.33, s.e.) and the maximum distance travelled was 16.9km downstream. Fish moved upstream and downstream between pools mostly at dawn and dusk, presumably to feed in riffles. Most interpool movements were undertaken during low-flow conditions (<0.2m s–1 and <6.0m3 s–1). Generally, the population responded inconsistently to flow events; however, the greatest movement response was detected during the first post-winter flow. Although fish preferred to move on an event fall, several fish continued to move throughout the study reach under baseflow conditions. Management strategies protecting low-flow conditions that maintain connectivity between daytime refuges and riffles may be important for the species’ conservation. The effective delivery of post-winter flow events, particularly in perennial systems, is likely to provide critical dispersal opportunities and aid long-term population viability.
Automated profiling of growth cone heterogeneity defines relations between morphology and motility
Authors: Bagonis Maria M. , Fusco Ludovico , Pertz Olivier , Danuser Gaudenz
Published: December 2018

Growth cones are complex, motile structures at the tip of an outgrowing neurite. They often exhibit a high density of filopodia (thin actin bundles), which complicates the unbiased quantification of their morphologies by software. Contemporary image processing methods require extensive tuning of segmentation parameters, require significant manual curation, and are often not sufficiently adaptable to capture morphology changes associated with switches in regulatory signals. To overcome these limitations, we developed Growth Cone Analyzer (GCA). GCA is designed to quantify growth cone morphodynamics from time-lapse sequences imaged both in vitro and in vivo, but is sufficiently generic that it may be applied to nonneuronal cellular structures. We demonstrate the adaptability of GCA through the analysis of growth cone morphological variation and its relation to motility in both an unperturbed system and in the context of modified Rho GTPase signaling. We find that perturbations inducing similar changes in neurite length exhibit underappreciated phenotypic nuance at the scale of the growth cone.
Increased water use efficiency and water productivity of arabidopsis by abscisic acid receptors from Populus canescens
Authors: Papacek Michael , Christmann Alexander , Grill Erwin
Published: December 2018

Background and Aims

Water deficit is the single most important factor limiting plant productivity in the field. Poplar is a crop used for second-generation bioenergy production that can be cultivated on marginal land without competing for land use in food production. Poplar has a high demand for water, which makes improving its water use efficiency (WUE) an attractive goal. Recently, we showed that enhanced expression of specific receptors of arabidopsis for the phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) can improve WUE in arabidopsis and water productivity, i.e. more biomass is formed per unit of water over time. In this study, we examined whether ABA receptors from poplar can enhance WUE and water productivity in arabidopsis.

Methods

ABA receptors from poplar were stably introduced into arabidopsis for analysis of their effect on water use efficiency. Physiological analysis included growth assessment and gas exchange measurements.

Key Results

The data presented here are in agreement with the functionality of poplar ABA receptors in arabidopsis, which led to ABA-hypersensitive seed germination and root growth. In addition, arabidopsis lines expressing poplar RCAR10, but not RCAR9, showed increased WUE by up to 26 % compared with the wild type with few trade-offs in growth that also resulted in higher water productivity during drought. The improved WUE was mediated by reduced stomatal conductance, a steeper CO2 gradient at the leaf boundary and sustained photosynthesis resulting in an increased intrinsic WUE (iWUE).

Conclusions

The analysis is a case study supporting the use of poplar ABA receptors for improving WUE and showing the feasibility of using a heterologous expression strategy for generating plants with improved water productivity.
Influencing cardiovascular health habits in the rural, deep south: results of a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Abbott Laurie S , Slate Elizabeth H , Lemacks Jennifer L
Published: December 2018

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of death among people living in the United States. Populations, especially minorities, living in the rural South are disproportionately affected by CVD and have greater CVD risk, morbidity and mortality. Culturally relevant cardiovascular health programs implemented in rural community settings can potentially reduce CVD risk and facilitate health behavior modification. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a cardiovascular health promotion intervention on the health habits of a group of rural African American adults. The study had a cluster randomized controlled trial design involving 12 rural churches that served as statistical clusters. From the churches (n = 6) randomized to the intervention group, 115 participants were enrolled, received the 6-week health program and completed pretest–posttest measures. The 114 participants from the control group churches (n = 6) did not receive the health program and completed the same pretest–posttest measures. The linear mixed model was used to compare group differences from pretest to posttest. The educational health intervention positively influenced select dietary and confidence factors that may contribute toward CVD risk reduction.
The ionophore oxyclozanide enhances tobramycin killing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms by permeabilizing cells and depolarizing the membrane potential
Authors: Maiden Michael M , Zachos Mitchell P , Waters Christopher M
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To assess the ability of oxyclozanide to enhance tobramycin killing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms and elucidate its mechanism of action.

Methods

Twenty-four hour biofilms formed by the P. aeruginosa strain PAO1 and cystic fibrosis (CF) isolates were tested for susceptibility to oxyclozanide and tobramycin killing using BacTiter-Glo™ and cfu. Biofilm dispersal was measured using crystal violet staining. Membrane potential and permeabilization were quantified using DiOC2(3) and TO-PRO-3, respectively.

Results

Here we show that the ionophore anthelmintic oxyclozanide, combined with tobramycin, significantly increased killing of P. aeruginosa biofilms over each treatment alone. This combination also significantly accelerated the killing of cells within biofilms and stationary phase cultures and it was effective against 4/6 CF clinical isolates tested, including a tobramycin-resistant strain. Oxyclozanide enhanced the ability of additional aminoglycosides and tetracycline to kill P. aeruginosa biofilms. Finally, oxyclozanide permeabilized cells within the biofilm, reduced the membrane potential and increased tobramycin accumulation within cells of mature P. aeruginosa biofilms.

Conclusions

Oxyclozanide enhances aminoglycoside and tetracycline activity against P. aeruginosa biofilms by reducing membrane potential, permeabilizing cells and enhancing tobramycin accumulation within biofilms. We propose that oxyclozanide counteracts the adaptive resistance response of P. aeruginosa to aminoglycosides, increasing both their maximum activity and rate of killing. As oxyclozanide is widely used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of parasitic worm infections, this combination could offer a new approach for the treatment of biofilm-based P. aeruginosa infections, repurposing oxyclozanide as an anti-biofilm agent.
National Trends and Reported Risk Factors Among Pregnant Women With Syphilis in the United States, 2012–2016
Authors: Trivedi Shivika , Williams Charnetta , Torrone Elizabeth , Kidd Sarah
Published: December 2018

OBJECTIVE:

To describe recent syphilis trends among pregnant women and to evaluate the prevalence of reported high-risk behaviors in this population.

METHODS:

We analyzed U.S. national case report data for 2012–2016 to assess trends among pregnant women with all stages of syphilis. Risk behavior data collected through case interviews during routine local health department investigation of syphilis cases were used to evaluate the number of pregnant women with syphilis reporting these behaviors.

RESULTS:

During 2012–2016, the number of syphilis cases among pregnant women increased 61%, from 1,561 to 2,508, and this increase was observed across all races and ethnicities, all women aged 15–45 years, and all U.S. regions. Of 15 queried risk factors, including high-risk sexual behaviors and drug use, 49% of pregnant women with syphilis did not report any in the past year. The most commonly reported risk behaviors were a history of a sexually transmitted disease (43%) and more than one sex partner in the past year (30%).

CONCLUSION:

Syphilis cases among pregnant women increased from 2012 to 2016, and in half, no traditional behavioral risk factors were reported. Efforts to reduce syphilis among pregnant women should involve increasing health care provider awareness of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' recommendations, which include screening all pregnant women for syphilis at the first prenatal visit and rescreening high-risk women during the third trimester and at delivery. Health care providers should also consider local syphilis prevalence in addition to individual reported risk factors when deciding whether to repeat screening.
Periocular Manifestations of Afatinib Therapy
Authors: Joganathan Varajini , Norris Jonathan H.
Published: December 2018

Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy has been increasingly employed in the treatment of a variety of tumors. The authors report the rarely documented side effect of trichiasis with the use of Afatinib in a patient with spinal chordoma and review-related literature. A 67-year-old lady was referred to the oculoplastic service with a 3-month history of ocular irritation and pain associated with blurred vision. She has a 4-year history of spinal chordoma treated with daily Afatinib 50 mg over the past 6 months. Clinical examination revealed trichomegaly and trichiasis affecting all 4 eyelids associated with blepharitis, conjunctival, and corneal abrasion on fluorescein staining. Hypertrichosis of the eyebrow bilaterally was also present. Afatinib and other epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor–associated changes to eyelash and eyebrow hair is a result of epidermal growth factor receptor pathway activation in keratinocytes results in remodeling of the hair follicle. This results in the variation in the severity of clinical presentation of trichiasis.
Promoting resilience in vulnerable populations: focus on opioid-exposed children, siblings of children with special healthcare needs and support for children through school-based interventions
Authors: Brodie Nicola , Keim Jennifer L. , Silberholz Elizabeth A. , Spector Nancy D. , Pattishall Amy E.
Published: December 2018

Purpose of review

Resilience is an important factor in withstanding the health consequences of childhood adversity. This article discusses recent literature related to promoting resilience in opioid-exposed children and siblings of children with special healthcare needs. It also addresses ways that school systems can foster childhood resilience.

Recent findings

Rising rates of opioid-exposed newborns have necessitated the development of multiple strategies to address the medical and social needs of this vulnerable pediatric population. Siblings of children with special healthcare needs are a growing but sometimes overlooked group who have unique challenges that can be supported by healthcare providers. School programs that reward positive behavior and encourage self-regulation through activities like physical activity and mindfulness can foster an environment for improved youth resiliency.

New research has led to the development of resources that help pediatric providers assess the needs of their vulnerable patient populations and foster resilience through attention to these patients’ medical, emotional and social needs. Patients benefit from national policy efforts and local school programs that each promote resilience.
Characterizing Sociostructural Associations With New HIV Diagnoses Among Female Sex Workers in Cameroon
Authors: Bowring Anna L. , Ketende Sosthenes , Billong Serge C. , Mfochive Njindam Iliassou , Rao Amrita , Decker Michele R. , Lyons Carrie , Turpin Gnilane , Fako Guy , Olawore Oluwasolape , Ndonko Flavien , Levitt Daniel , Fouda Ghislaine , Tamoufe Ubald , Njoya Oudou , Zoung-Kanyi Bissek Anne-Cecile , Baral Stefan
Published: December 2018

Background:

Female sex workers (FSW) are disproportionately affected by HIV in Cameroon, with an estimated 23.6% HIV prevalence. Given the unavailability of HIV incidence data, to better understand associations with acquiring HIV we assessed the prevalence and associations with new HIV diagnoses among FSW in Cameroon.

Methods:

In 2016, FSW were recruited through respondent-driven sampling from 5 cities for a biobehavioral survey. Participants self-reporting living with HIV or with an indeterminate test status were excluded from analysis. New diagnoses were defined as testing HIV-positive when participants self-reported HIV-negative or unknown status. A multivariable modified Poisson regression model was developed to assess determinants of new HIV diagnosis (referent group: HIV-negative) using key covariates; adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) are reported if statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Results:

Overall 2255 FSW were recruited. Excluding participants who self-reported living with HIV (n = 297) and indeterminate test results (n = 7), 260/1951 (13.3%) FSW were newly diagnosed with HIV. Variables significantly associated with new HIV diagnosis were: no secondary/higher education [aPR: 1.56, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.12 to 2.15], 5+ dependents compared with none (aPR: 2.11, 95% CI: 1.01 to 4.40), 5+ years involved in sex work compared with <1 year (aPR: 2.84, 95% CI: 1.26 to 6.42), history of incarceration (aPR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.13 to 3.99), and low social capital (aPR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.12 to 2.10). Higher monthly income (>250,000 FCFA vs. <50,000 FCFA) was associated with lower prevalence of new HIV diagnosis (aPR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.86).

Conclusions:

There are significant sociostructural factors that seem to potentiate risk of HIV infection and delay diagnosis among FSW in Cameroon. Initiatives to build social capital and integrate services such as pre-exposure prophylaxis and HIV self-testing into HIV programs may reduce new infections and decrease time to diagnosis and treatment.
The Use of Microplates for Internal Fixation of Comminuted Mandibular Fractures
Authors: Choi Tae Joon , Chung Young Hun , Cho Jae Young , Burm Jin Sik
Published: December 2018

Background

Although clinical trials have successfully applied microplates for the internal fixation of single or double isolated mandibular fractures, the use of microplate systems in comminuted mandibular fractures is not widely accepted. This study aimed to evaluate the use of microplates for internal fixation of comminuted mandible fractures and to discuss their applicability.

Methods

Fourteen patients with comminuted mandibular fractures (10 at a single region, 3 at 2 regions, and 1 at 4 regions) were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using 0.5- or 0.6-mm-thick titanium microplates and 1.0-, 1.2-, or 1.3-mm monocortical microscrews. Three-level fixation at the lower border, upper border (as interdental wiring), and middle of the mandible was performed. Maxillomandibular fixation was applied only when premature occlusal contact was observed after fracture fixation.

Results

During the follow-up period (3–55 months), all fractures showed favorable and complete bone healing. Six patients experienced minor complications, including minimal malocclusion (n = 5) and a localized infection (n = 1). Most of these complications were managed with conservative treatment. No major complications that required further orthodontic treatment or reoperation occurred.

Conclusions

These results suggest that 3-level fixation using microplates is appropriate for the reconstruction of comminuted mandibular fractures without bony defects. The small size and malleability of these devices facilitate accurate anatomical reduction for complete contact of the comminuted bony segments by multiple fixation. Furthermore, microplates allow for preservation of sufficient periosteal blood supply and restoration of premorbid occlusion (by occlusal self-adjustment) while providing sufficient stability.