bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanomorphological investigation of graphite surface after cryo‐ultrasonication in liquid nitrogen by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Moro Daniele , Ulian Gianfranco , Valdrè Giovanni
Published: January 2018

Mineral graphite has been effectively used to produce high quality graphene sheets, and a promising top‐down approach for the production of graphene from graphite is liquid‐phase exfoliation (LPF) because of its versatility and intrinsic ease of operation. Here, the work introduces a novel method for LPF, and they present preliminary results on the effects of ultrasonication assisted LPF of graphite in liquid nitrogen (cryo‐ultrasonication at 77 K), comparing it with untreated graphite and graphite exfoliated by ultrasonication in distilled water at room temperature (∼300 K). Atomic force microscopy was employed to investigate and to assess at the nanoscale the effect of the cryo‐ultrasonication on the exfoliation of the graphite surface. Various graphene single‐layers with an area of >0.2 μm2 were obtained after cryo‐ultrasonication in liquid nitrogen working at 40 kHz, 100 W for 10 min. The present investigation demonstrates that graphene single‐layers can be easily produced by ultrasonication assisted LPF of graphite immersed in liquid nitrogen.
Adsorption and photocatalytic study of dye degradation over the g‐C3N4/W18O49 nanocomposite
Authors: Xu Le , Gu Danxia , Chang Xueting , Chai Linge , Li Zhao , Jin Xiaokun , Sun Shibin
Published: January 2018

A heterogeneous nanocomposite (NC) of g‐C3N4/W18O49 based on the coupling of W18O49 nanorods (NRs) with the graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) sheets has been synthesised via a solvothermal method. The as‐synthesised products were characterised by X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectrometry, and transmission electron microscopy. The g‐C3N4/W18O49 NC exhibited very strong adsorption ability towards the methylene blue (MB) dye and demonstrated a high removal efficiency of 99.14% after 0.5 h equilibration in dark. Compared to the g‐C3N4 sheets and W18O49 NRs, the g‐C3N4/W18O49 NC exhibited higher removal efficiencies towards both the MB and methyl orange (MO) dyes via a combination of adsorption and degradation. The photocatalytic process of the g‐C3N4/W18O49 NC followed the Z‐scheme photocatalytic mechanism. This work provides an efficient strategy for the synthesis of g‐C3N4‐based heterogeneous photocatalysts.
Solar polarimetry in the K I D2 line : A novel possibility for a stratospheric balloon
Authors: Quintero Noda C. , Villanueva G. L. , Katsukawa Y. , Solanki S. K. , Orozco Suárez D. , Ruiz Cobo B. , Shimizu T. , Oba T. , Kubo M. , Anan T. , Ichimoto K. , Suematsu Y.
Published: January 2018

Of the two solar lines, K I D1 and D2, almost all attention so far has been devoted to the D1 line, as D2 is severely affected by an O2 atmospheric band. This, however, makes the latter appealing for balloon and space observations from above (most of) the Earth’s atmosphere. We estimate the residual effect of the O2 band on the K I D2 line at altitudes typical for stratospheric balloons. Our aim is to study the feasibility of observing the 770 nm window. Specifically, this paper serves as a preparation for the third flight of the Sunrise balloon-borne observatory. The results indicate that the absorption by O2 is still present, albeit much weaker, at the expected balloon altitude. We applied the obtained O2 transmittance to K I D2 synthetic polarimetric spectra and found that in the absence of line-of-sight motions, the residual O2 has a negligible effect on the K I D2 line. On the other hand, for Doppler-shifted K I D2 data, the residual O2 might alter the shape of the Stokes profiles. However, the residual O2 absorption is sufficiently weak at stratospheric levels that it can be divided out if appropriate measurements are made, something that is impossible at ground level. Therefore, for the first time with Sunrise III, we will be able to perform polarimetric observations of the K I D2 line and, consequently, we will have improved access to the thermodynamics and magnetic properties of the upper photosphere from observations of the K I lines.
Tensile strength of 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko nucleus material from overhangs
Authors: Attree N. , Groussin O. , Jorda L. , Nébouy D. , Thomas N. , Brouet Y. , Kührt E. , Preusker F. , Scholten F. , Knollenberg J. , Hartogh P. , Sierks H. , Barbieri C. , Lamy P. , Rodrigo R. , Koschny D. , Rickman H. , Keller H. U. , A’Hearn M. F. , Auger A.-T. , Barucci M. A. , Bertaux J.-L. , Bertini I. , Bodewits D. , Boudreault S. , Cremonese G. , Da Deppo V. , Davidsson B. , Debei S. , De Cecco M. , Deller J. , El-Maarry M. R. , Fornasier S. , Fulle M. , Gutiérrez P. J. , Güttler C. , Hviid S. , Ip W.-H. , Kovacs G. , Kramm J. R. , Küppers M. , Lara L. M. , Lazzarin M. , Lopez Moreno J. J. , Lowry S. , Marchi S. , Marzari F. , Mottola S. , Naletto G. , Oklay N. , Pajola M. , Toth I. , Tubiana C. , Vincent J.-B. , Shi X.
Published: January 2018

We directly measured twenty overhanging cliffs on the surface of comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko extracted from the latest shape model and estimated the minimum tensile strengths needed to support them against collapse under the comet’s gravity. We find extremely low strengths of around 1 Pa or less (1 to 5 Pa, when scaled to a metre length). The presence of eroded material at the base of most overhangs, as well as the observed collapse of two features andthe implied previous collapse of another, suggests that they are prone to failure and that the true material strengths are close to these lower limits (although we only consider static stresses and not dynamic stress from, for example, cometary activity). Thus, a tensile strength of a few pascals is a good approximation for the tensile strength of the 67P nucleus material, which is in agreement with previous work. We find no particular trends in overhang properties either with size over the ~10–100 m range studied here or location on the nucleus. There are no obvious differences, in terms of strength, height or evidence of collapse, between the populations of overhangs on the two cometary lobes, suggesting that 67P is relatively homogenous in terms of tensile strength. Low material strengths are supportive of cometary formation as a primordial rubble pile or by collisional fragmentation of a small body (tens of km).
Alumina – drei Beobachtungen aus der Literatur und der Versuch einer Charakteristik
Authors: Minder Peter
Published: January 2018

Drei Kasuistiken aus der Literatur und der Versuch, eine Charakteristik von Alumina zu erstellen, wie er in Gruppenarbeit der Materia-medica-Studiumsgruppe erarbeitet wurde.
Kentʼs Repertorium, übersetzt von v. Keller u. Künzli: Verlegen, Beschwerden, nach
Authors: Lang Gerhardus
Published: January 2018

Eine ursprünglich fehlerhafte Übersetzung der Rubrik „Verlegen, Beschwerden, nach“ aus Kentʼs Repertorium führt in der Folge zu einer völlig andere Bedeutung in den modernen Repertorien. Es ist eine neue Rubrik mit einer neuen Bedeutung gebildet worden, in der nun die Mittel untergebracht wurden, die in einer Rubrik standen, die eine völlig andere Bedeutung hat.
Meritocracy and inequality: moral considerations
Authors: Teklu Theodros Assefa
Published: January 2018

Abstract

This study investigates where religion stands in relation to economic life, characterised by meritocracy. To this end, first, the deeper logic of economic merit-retribution—which captures humans, as an ideology of everyday life—will be explicated through a cursory review of the metaphysical and religious grounding of economic life. Here, the paper discusses both the religious legitimation and critique of meritocracy by generating theological resources from the books of Job and Qohelet. The paper then draws on the historical archives and cultural memories of Ethiopians to illustrate how and why religion should be considered important for a deeper understanding of inequality and poverty. Of particular interest in this context are the oral poetic expressions of ordinary people suffering the consequences of drought and famine in Ethiopia. Such voices—usually passed unheard by authorities, whether governmental or non-governmental agents—are not only illustrative of the way the logic of merit/retribution is implicated in metaphysical and religious worldviews in Ethiopia (the metaphysics of fate/idil), but also demonstrate a challenge to the religious, socio-economic, and political status quo. Finally, the paper suggests a number of moral considerations on meritocracy vis-à-vis inequality and poverty, which will contribute towards correcting flawed conceptions of economic poverty and development.
Structure and Bonding in Hexa-tert-butyl-hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene Sandwich Complexes of Ruthenium
Authors: Lein Matthias
Published: January 2018

We evaluate the balance of steric and electronic effects in the site selectivity of the binding of [Rh(Me5Cp)]+ ([RhCp·]+) to the three possible coordination sites of the polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) hexa-tert-butyl-hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene (HBBC). We find that despite the close proximity of sterically demanding tert-butyl groups to the methyl groups of the Cp* ligand, the extent of steric repulsion is minor compared to electronic interaction from bond formation and that the site selectivity is best explained in terms of the electronics of the (poly) aromatic system. This is in contrast to previous investigations on similar systems with a COD ligand where steric influence has been shown to dominate selectivity.
Women live longer than men even during severe famines and epidemics
Authors: Zarulli Virginia , Barthold Jones Julia A. , Oksuzyan Anna , Lindahl-Jacobsen Rune , Christensen Kaare , Vaupel James W.
Published: January 2018

Significance

Women live longer than men in nearly all populations today. Some research focuses on the biological origins of the female advantage; other research stresses the significance of social factors. We studied male–female survival differences in populations of slaves and populations exposed to severe famines and epidemics. We find that even when mortality was very high, women lived longer on average than men. Most of the female advantage was due to differences in mortality among infants: baby girls were able to survive harsh conditions better than baby boys. These results support the view that the female survival advantage is modulated by a complex interaction of biological environmental and social factors.
Minority Language Place-Names: A Practice-Oriented Study of the Establishment of the South Sami Kraapohke in Swedish Lapland
Authors: Edlund Lars-Erik
Published: January 2018

Implementation of the Swedish minority policy has resulted in the national minority languages having been visualized. But what minority language place-names should be put on road signs together with the Swedish names? This article is focused on the establishment of the Sami toponym for Dorotea in southern Swedish Lapland. The question is, which of the following Sami names should be adopted as the official name: Birjevahne (< Sw. Bergvattnet), Döörte (< Sw. Dorotea), or the original South Sami Kraapohke. This practice-oriented study illustrates the problems involved in finding out how Sami names are used in living language. Such problems generally arise when place-names are handed down by small language communities. The establishment of the Sami name Kraapohke illustrates the complicated questions that arise when working with minority language place-names and the identity processes associated with such names.
Kokomo: The History and Meaning of a Remarkable and Elusive Place Name
Authors: McCafferty Michael
Published: January 2018

“Kokomo”, the name of a small city in central Indiana, was originally a personal name of a historical Miami Indian man. Although the correct translation of the man’s name was published in the 1800s, it was soon forgotten. Ever since then the name has defied interpretation because it was garbled to opacity. On the way to explaining the name’s form and meaning, based on early historical spellings, this article will describe the impressive trajectory that the life of “Kokomo” has taken for approximately two centuries, from an Algonquian language personal name to American slang.
Src- and confinement-dependent FAK activation causes E-cadherin relaxation and β-catenin activity
Authors: Gayrard Charlène , Bernaudin Clément , Déjardin Théophile , Seiler Cynthia , Borghi Nicolas
Published: January 2018

In epithelia, E-cadherin cytoplasmic tail is under cytoskeleton-generated tension via a link that contains β-catenin. A cotranscription factor, β-catenin, is also active in morphogenetic processes associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. β-Catenin signaling appears mechanically inducible and was proposed to follow phosphorylation-induced β-catenin release from E-cadherin. Evidence for this mechanism is lacking, and whether E-cadherin tension is involved is unknown. To test this, we combined quantitative fluorescence microscopies with genetic and pharmacological perturbations of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition–induced cells in culture. We showed that β-catenin nuclear activity follows a substantial release from the membrane specific to migrating cells and requires multicellular deconfinement and Src activity. Selective nuclear translocation occurs downstream of focal adhesion kinase activation, which targets E-cadherin tension relaxation through actomyosin remodeling. In contrast, phosphorylations of the cadherin/catenin complex are not substantially required. These data demonstrate that E-cadherin acts as a sensor of intracellular mechanics in a crosstalk with cell-substrate adhesions that target β-catenin signaling.
Computational prediction of drug–target interactions using chemogenomic approaches: an empirical survey
Authors: Ezzat Ali , Wu Min , Li Xiao-Li , Kwoh Chee-Keong
Published: January 2018

Computational prediction of drug–target interactions (DTIs) has become an essential task in the drug discovery process. It narrows down the search space for interactions by suggesting potential interaction candidates for validation via wet-lab experiments that are well known to be expensive and time-consuming. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview and empirical evaluation on the computational DTI prediction techniques, to act as a guide and reference for our fellow researchers. Specifically, we first describe the data used in such computational DTI prediction efforts. We then categorize and elaborate the state-of-the-art methods for predicting DTIs. Next, an empirical comparison is performed to demonstrate the prediction performance of some representative methods under different scenarios. We also present interesting findings from our evaluation study, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Finally, we highlight potential avenues for further enhancement of DTI prediction performance as well as related research directions.
Tumor purity quantification by clonal DNA methylation signatures
Authors: Benelli Matteo , Romagnoli Dario , Demichelis Francesca
Published: January 2018

Motivation

Controlling for tumor purity in molecular analyses is essential to allow for reliable genomic aberration calls, for inter-sample comparison and to monitor heterogeneity of cancer cell populations. In genome wide screening studies, the assessment of tumor purity is typically performed by means of computational methods that exploit somatic copy number aberrations.

Results

We present a strategy, called Purity Assessment from clonal MEthylation Sites (PAMES), which uses the methylation level of a few dozen, highly clonal, tumor type specific CpG sites to estimate the purity of tumor samples, without the need of a matched benign control. We trained and validated our method in more than 6000 samples from different datasets. Purity estimates by PAMES were highly concordant with other state-of-the-art tools and its evaluation in a cancer cell line dataset highlights its reliability to accurately estimate tumor admixtures. We extended the capability of PAMES to the analysis of CpG islands instead of the more platform-specific CpG sites and demonstrated its accuracy in a set of advanced tumors profiled by high throughput DNA methylation sequencing. These analyses show that PAMES is a valuable tool to assess the purity of tumor samples in the settings of clinical research and diagnostics.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/cgplab/PAMES

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Training and Spontaneous Reinforcement of Neuronal Assemblies by Spike Timing Plasticity
Authors: Ocker Gabriel Koch , Doiron Brent
Published: January 2018

The synaptic connectivity of cortex is plastic, with experience shaping the ongoing interactions between neurons. Theoretical studies of spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) have focused on either just pairs of neurons or large-scale simulations. A simple analytic account for how fast spike time correlations affect both microscopic and macroscopic network structure is lacking. We develop a low-dimensional mean field theory for STDP in recurrent networks and show the emergence of assemblies of strongly coupled neurons with shared stimulus preferences. After training, this connectivity is actively reinforced by spike train correlations during the spontaneous dynamics. Furthermore, the stimulus coding by cell assemblies is actively maintained by these internally generated spiking correlations, suggesting a new role for noise correlations in neural coding. Assembly formation has often been associated with firing rate-based plasticity schemes; our theory provides an alternative and complementary framework, where fine temporal correlations and STDP form and actively maintain learned structure in cortical networks.
Are We on Our Way to Achieving the 2020 Goals for Schistosomiasis Morbidity Control Using Current World Health Organization Guidelines?
Authors: Toor Jaspreet , Alsallaq Ramzi , Truscott James E , Turner Hugo C , Werkman Marleen , Gurarie David , King Charles H , Anderson Roy M
Published: January 2018

Background

Schistosomiasis remains an endemic parasitic disease affecting millions of people around the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set goals of controlling morbidity to be reached by 2020, along with elimination as a public health problem in certain regions by 2025. Mathematical models of parasite transmission and treatment impact have been developed to assist in controlling the morbidity caused by schistosomiasis. These models can inform and guide implementation policy for mass drug administration programs, and help design monitoring and evaluation activities.

Methods

We use these models to predict whether the guidelines set by the WHO are on track for achieving their 2020 goal for the control of morbidity, specifically for Schistosoma mansoni. We examine whether programmatic adaptations; namely increases in treatment coverage and/or expansion to adult inclusion in treatment, will improve the likelihood of reaching the WHO goals.

Results

We find that in low-prevalence settings, the goals are likely to be attainable under current WHO guidelines, but in moderate to high-prevalence settings, the goals are less likely to be achieved unless treatment coverage is increased and expanded to at least 85% for school-aged children and 40% for adults.

Conclusions

To improve the likelihood of reaching the WHO goals, programmatic adaptations are required, particularly for moderate- to high-prevalence settings. Furthermore, improvements in adherence to treatment, potential development of candidate vaccines, and enhanced snail control and WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) measures will all assist in achieving the goals.
Are Alternative Strategies Required to Accelerate the Global Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis? Insights From Mathematical Models
Authors: Stolk Wilma A , Prada Joaquin M , Smith Morgan E , Kontoroupis Periklis , de Vos Anneke S , Touloupou Panayiota , Irvine Michael A , Brown Paul , Subramanian Swaminathan , Kloek Marielle , Michael E , Hollingsworth T Deirdre , de Vlas Sake J
Published: January 2018

Background

With the 2020 target year for elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) approaching, there is an urgent need to assess how long mass drug administration (MDA) programs with annual ivermectin + albendazole (IA) or diethylcarbamazine + albendazole (DA) would still have to be continued, and how elimination can be accelerated. We addressed this using mathematical modeling.

Methods

We used 3 structurally different mathematical models for LF transmission (EPIFIL, LYMFASIM, TRANSFIL) to simulate trends in microfilariae (mf) prevalence for a range of endemic settings, both for the current annual MDA strategy and alternative strategies, assessing the required duration to bring mf prevalence below the critical threshold of 1%.

Results

Three annual MDA rounds with IA or DA and good coverage (≥65%) are sufficient to reach the threshold in settings that are currently at mf prevalence <4%, but the required duration increases with increasing mf prevalence. Switching to biannual MDA or employing triple-drug therapy (ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, and albendazole [IDA]) could reduce program duration by about one-third. Optimization of coverage reduces the time to elimination and is particularly important for settings with a history of poorly implemented MDA (low coverage, high systematic noncompliance).

Conclusions

Modeling suggests that, in several settings, current annual MDA strategies will be insufficient to achieve the 2020 LF elimination targets, and programs could consider policy adjustment to accelerate, guided by recent monitoring and evaluation data. Biannual treatment and IDA hold promise in reducing program duration, provided that coverage is good, but their efficacy remains to be confirmed by more extensive field studies.
Achieving Viral Suppression in 90% of People Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus on Antiretroviral Therapy in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Progress, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Nachega Jean B , Sam-Agudu Nadia A , Mofenson Lynne M , Schechter Mauro , Mellors John W
Published: January 2018

Although significant progress has been made, the latest data from low- and middle-income countries show substantial gaps in reaching the third “90%” (viral suppression) of the UNAIDS 90-90-90 goals, especially among vulnerable and key populations. This article discusses critical gaps and promising, evidence-based solutions. There is no simple and/or single approach to achieve the last 90%. This will require multifaceted, scalable strategies that engage people living with human immunodeficiency virus, motivate long-term treatment adherence, and are community-entrenched and ‑supported, cost-effective, and tailored to a wide range of global communities.
Branched Holomorphic Cartan Geometries and Calabi–Yau Manifolds
Authors: Biswas Indranil , Dumitrescu Sorin
Published: January 2018

We introduce the concept of a branched holomorphic Cartan geometry. It generalizes to higher dimension the definition of branched (flat) complex projective structure on a Riemann surface introduced by Mandelbaum [25]. This new framework is much more flexible than that of the usual holomorphic Cartan geometries. We show that all compact complex projective manifolds admit a branched flat holomorphic projective structure. We also give an example of a non-flat branched holomorphic normal projective structure on a compact complex surface. It is known that no compact complex surface admits such a structure with empty branching locus. We prove that non-projective compact simply connected Kähler Calabi–Yau manifolds do not admit any branched holomorphic projective structure. The key ingredient of its proof is the following result of independent interest: if E is a holomorphic vector bundle over a compact simply connected Kähler Calabi–Yau manifold and E admits a holomorphic connection, then E is a trivial holomorphic vector bundle and any holomorphic connection on E is trivial.
The Completed Finite Period Map and Galois Theory of Supercongruences
Authors: Rosen Julian
Published: January 2018

A period is a complex number arising as the integral of a rational function with algebraic number coefficients over a region cut out by finitely many inequalities between polynomials with rational coefficients. Although periods are typically transcendental numbers, there is a conjectural Galois theory of periods coming from the theory of motives. This paper formalizes an analogy between a class of periods called multiple zeta values and congruences for rational numbers modulo prime powers (called supercongruences). We construct an analog of the motivic period map in the setting of supercongruences and use it to define a Galois theory of supercongruences. We describe an algorithm using our period map to find and prove supercongruences, and we provide software implementing the algorithm.
Radially Distributed Values and Normal Families
Authors: Bergweiler Walter , Eremenko Alexandre
Published: January 2018

Let L0 and L1 be two distinct rays emanating from the origin and let ${\mathcal{F}}$ be the family of all functions holomorphic in the unit disk ${\mathbb{D}}$ for which all zeros lie on L0 while all 1-points lie on L1. It is shown that ${\mathcal{F}}$ is normal in ${\mathbb{D}}\backslash \{0\}$. The case where L0 is the positive real axis and L1 is the negative real axis is studied in more detail.
Oxidative burst and Dectin-1-triggered phagocytosis affected by norepinephrine and endocannabinoids: implications for fungal clearance under stress
Authors: Buchheim Judith-Irina , Hoskyns Spencer , Moser Dominique , Han Bing , Deindl Elisabeth , Hörl Marion , Biere Katharina , Feuerecker Matthias , Schelling Gustav , Choukèr Alexander
Published: January 2018

A prolonged stress burden is known to hamper the efficiency of both the innate and the adaptive immune systems and to attenuate the stress responses by the catecholaminergic and endocannabinoid (EC) systems. Key mechanisms of innate immunity are the eradication of pathogens through phagocytosis and the respiratory burst. We tested the concentration-dependent, spontaneous and stimulated (via TNFα and N-formylmethionine-leucyl-phenylalanine) release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) in vitro in response to norepinephrine (NE) and AM1241, a pharmacological ligand for the EC receptor CB2. We evaluated phagocytosis of Dectin-1 ligating zymosan particles and tested the cytokine response against Candida antigen in an in vitro cytokine release assay. Increasing concentrations of NE did not affect phagocytosis, yet stimulated ROS release was attenuated gradually reaching maximum suppression at 500 nM. Adrenergic receptor (AR) mechanisms using non-AR-selective (labetalol) as well as specific α-(prazosin) and β-(propranolol) receptor antagonists were tested. Results show that only labetalol and propranolol were able to recuperate cytotoxicity in the presence of NE, evidencing a β-receptor-mediated effect. The CB2 agonist, AM1241, inhibited phagocytosis at 10 µM and spontaneous peroxide release by PMNs. Use of the inverse CB2 receptor agonist SR144528 led to partial recuperation of ROS production, confirming the functional role of CB2. Additionally, AM1241 delayed early activation of monocytes and induced suppression of IL-2 and IL-6 levels in response to Candida via lower activity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). These findings provide new insights into key mechanisms of innate immunity under stressful conditions where ligands to the sympatho-adrenergic and EC system are released.
Mutation Signatures Including APOBEC in Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Jarvis Matthew C , Ebrahimi Diako , Temiz Nuri A , Harris Reuben S
Published: January 2018

Background:

Multiple endogenous and exogenous sources of DNA damage contribute to the overall mutation burden in cancer, with distinct and overlapping combinations contributing to each cancer type. Many mutation sources result in characteristic mutation signatures, which can be deduced from tumor genomic DNA sequences. Examples include spontaneous hydrolytic deamination of methyl-cytosine bases in CG motifs (AGEING signature) and C-to-T and C-to-G mutations in 5'-TC(A/T) motifs (APOBEC signature).

Methods:

The deconstructSigs R package was used to analyze single-base substitution mutation signatures in more than 1000 cancer cell lines. Two additional approaches were used to analyze the APOBEC mutation signature.

Results:

Most cell lines show evidence for multiple mutation signatures. For instance, the AGEING signature, which is the largest source of mutation in most primary tumors, predominates in the majority of cancer cell lines. The APOBEC mutation signature is enriched in cancer cell lines from breast, lung, head/neck, bladder, and cervical cancers, where this signature also comprises a large fraction of all mutations.

Conclusions:

The single-base substitution mutation signatures of cancer cell lines often reflect those of the original tumors from which they are derived. Cancer cell lines with enrichments for distinct mutation signatures such as APOBEC have the potential to become model systems for fundamental research on the underlying mechanisms and for advancing clinical strategies to exploit these processes.
Phylogenetic analysis of Histoplasma capsulatum var duboisii in baboons from archived formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded tissues
Authors: Hensel M , Hoffmann A Rodrigues , Gonzales M , Owston M A , Dick E J
Published: January 2018

Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii (Hcd) infections have been well documented to cause chronic granulomatous disease, mainly involving the skin of baboons and humans in African countries primarily. This retrospective study classified the subspecies of Histoplasma and developed a phylogenetic tree utilizing DNA sequences extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissues from 9 baboons from a research colony in Texas histologically diagnosed with Hcd. Based on sequence analysis of ITS-2, Tub-1, and ARF, Hcd isolated from the archived samples closely aligns with the African clade and has 88% sequence homology with a sample isolated from an individual in Senegal.
Explosions of Thorne–Żytkow objects
Authors: Moriya Takashi J
Published: January 2018

We propose that massive Thorne–Żytkow objects can explode. A Thorne–Żytkow object is a theoretically predicted star that has a neutron core. When nuclear reactions supporting a massive Thorne–Żytkow object terminate, a strong accretion occurs towards the central neutron core. The accretion rate is large enough to sustain a super-Eddington accretion towards the neutron core. The neutron core may collapse to a black hole after a while. A strong large-scale outflow or a jet can be launched from the super-Eddington accretion disc and the collapsing Thorne–Żytkow object can be turned into an explosion. The ejecta have about 10 M⊙ but the explosion energy depends on when the accretion is suppressed. We presume that the explosion energy could be as low as ∼1047 erg and such a low-energy explosion could be observed like a failed supernova. The maximum possible explosion energy is ∼1052 erg and such a high-energy explosion could be observed as an energetic Type II supernova or a superluminous supernova. Explosions of Thorne–Żytkow objects may provide a new path to spread lithium and other heavy elements produced through the irp process such as molybdenum in the Universe.
Tidal double detonation: a new mechanism for the thermonuclear explosion of a white dwarf induced by a tidal disruption event
Authors: Tanikawa Ataru
Published: January 2018

We suggest tidal double detonation as a new mechanism for the thermonuclear explosion of a white dwarf (WD) induced by a tidal disruption event (TDE). Tidal detonation is also a WD explosion induced by a TDE. In this case, helium (He) and carbon–oxygen (CO) detonation waves incinerate He WDs and CO WDs, respectively. On the other hand, for tidal double detonation, He detonation is first excited in the He shell of a CO WD, which then drives CO detonation in the CO core. We name this mechanism after the double detonation scenario in the context of type Ia supernovae. In this paper, by performing numerical simulations for CO WDs of mass 0.60 M⊙ with and without a He shell, we show that tidal double detonation occurs in the shallower encounter of a CO WD with an intermediate-mass black hole (IMBH) compared to simple tidal detonation. We expect tidal double detonation will increase the possibility of the occurrence of WD TDEs, which can help us to understand IMBHs.
Faraday rotation signatures of fluctuation dynamos in young galaxies
Authors: Sur Sharanya , Bhat Pallavi , Subramanian Kandaswamy
Published: January 2018

Observations of Faraday rotation through high-redshift galaxies have revealed that they host coherent magnetic fields that are of comparable strengths to those observed in nearby galaxies. These fields could be generated by fluctuation dynamos. We use idealized numerical simulations of such dynamos in forced compressible turbulence up to rms Mach number of 2.4 to probe the resulting rotation measure (RM) and the degree of coherence of the magnetic field. We obtain rms values of RM at dynamo saturation of the order of 45–55 per cent of the value expected in a model where fields are assumed to be coherent on the forcing scale of turbulence. We show that the dominant contribution to the RM in subsonic and transonic cases comes from the general sea of volume filling fields, rather than from the rarer structures. However, in the supersonic case, strong field regions as well as moderately overdense regions contribute significantly. Our results can account for the observed RMs in young galaxies.
Remodeling of the Feeding Arterial System After Surgery for Resection of Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: An Observational Study
Authors: Morgan Michael Kerin , Guilfoyle Mathew , Kirollos Ramez , Heller Gillian Z
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Avoiding the risk of postoperative hemorrhage after brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) resection involves aggressive blood pressure control. Remodeling of the feeding arterial system is critical in reducing this risk.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate factors predicting time to return to normal on digital subtraction angiography (DSA) after AVM resection.

METHODS

For AVM in which the largest feeding artery (FA) on DSA was in the anterior circulation, the preoperative and postoperative diameter of the FA were compared with the diameter of the internal carotid artery (IC) immediately proximal to the posterior communicating artery. The preoperative FA/IC ratio (FA/IC preAVM) was compared with the first postoperative FA/IC ratio (FA/IC postAVM). Normal FA/IC ratio (FA/IC normal) was established from matched arteries in the contralateral hemisphere to the AVM.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients were analyzed for postoperative DSA performed a median 4 d after resection. From the interval-censored proportional hazards regression analysis, FA/IC preAVM (hazard ratio of 0.0006; 95% confidence interval: 0.00-0.21; P = .013) and maximum AVM diameter (hazard ratio of 0.47; 95% confidence interval: 0.23-0.95; P = .036) were significant in time to return to normal. These 2 factors were poorly correlated with each other (r = 0.41). AVMs with FA/IC preAVMs <0.57 combined with a diameter <3.0 cm normalize within 7 d in more than 50% of cases. Any other combination of ratio and size has fewer than 20% normalizing within 7 d (log rank P < .001).

CONCLUSION

FA/IC preAVM and AVM size are both important in predicting the time taken for return to normal feeding arterial system on DSA after AVM resection.
Dimensional crossover of heat conduction in amorphous polyimide nanofibers
Authors: Dong Lan , Xi Qing , Chen Dongsheng , Guo Jie , Nakayama Tsuneyoshi , Li Yunyun , Liang Ziqi , Zhou Jun , Xu Xiangfan , Li Baowen
Published: January 2018

The mechanism of thermal conductivity in amorphous polymers, especially polymer fibers, is unclear in comparison with that in inorganic materials. Here, we report the observation of a crossover of heat conduction behavior from three dimensions to quasi-one dimension in polyimide nanofibers at a given temperature. A theoretical model based on the random walk theory has been proposed to quantitatively describe the interplay between the inter-chain hopping and the intra-chain hopping in nanofibers. This model explains well the diameter dependence of thermal conductivity and also speculates on the upper limit of thermal conductivity of amorphous polymers in the quasi-1D limit.
Risk of Coronary Heart Disease Among Smokeless Tobacco Users: Results of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Global Data
Authors: Gupta Ruchika , Gupta Sanjay , Sharma Shashi , Sinha Dhirendra N , Mehrotra Ravi
Published: January 2018

Background

Use of smokeless tobacco (SLT) products has been linked to multiple adverse effects, especially precancer and cancer of oral cavity. However, the association of SLT use with risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) is shrouded with controversy due to conflicting results in the literature. The present meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the risk of CHD among adult ever-users of SLT products along with sub-group analysis.

Methods

The analysis included studies retrieved from a systematic literature search for published articles assessing risk of CHD with SLT use. Two authors independently extracted risk estimates and study characteristics of the included studies. Summary relative risks were estimated using the random-effect model.

Results

Twenty studies from four WHO regions were included in the analysis. The summary risk of CHD in SLT users was not significantly positive (1.05, 95% CI = 0.96 to 1.15) although a higher risk of fatal CHD was seen (1.10, 95% CI = 1.00 to 1.20). The risk was significant for users in European Region (1.30, 95% CI = 1.14 to 1.47). The results remained unchanged even after strict adjustment for smoking. Product-wise analysis revealed a significant positive association of fatal CHD with snus/snuff use (1.37, 95% CI = 1.14 to 1.61). The SLT-attributable fraction of fatal CHD was calculated to be 0.3%, highest being for European region (5%).

Conclusion

A significant positive association was detected between SLT use and risk of fatal CHD, especially for European users and those consuming snus/snuff. In view of the positive association even after strict adjustment for smoking, these results underscore the need for inclusion of cessation efforts for smokeless tobacco in addition to smoking for control of fatal cardiovascular diseases.

Implications

The present meta-analysis demonstrates a global perspective of association between coronary heart disease (CHD) and use of smokeless tobacco (SLT), especially for fatal cardiac events, even with strict adjustment for smoking. There appears to be some difference in this effect based on the type of SLT product used. These results highlight the independent deleterious effect of SLT products on the outcome of CHD and might help to resolve the long-standing controversy regarding the association of SLT with the risk of CHD. Hence, we propose that in addition to smoking, cessation efforts should be directed towards SLT products as well, for control of cardiovascular diseases.
What Will It Take to Reduce HIV Incidence in the United States: A Mathematical Modeling Analysis
Authors: Perry Allison , Kasaie Parastu , Dowdy David W , Shah Maunank
Published: January 2018

Background

The National HIV/AIDS Strategy has set ambitious goals to improve the epidemic in the United States. However, there is a paucity of usable program-level benchmarks tied to population-level epidemiologic goals. Our objective was to define tangible benchmarks for annual rates along the care continuum that are likely to translate to meaningful reductions in incidence.

Methods

We used a validated mathematical model of HIV transmission and care engagement to characterize care continuum parameters that would translate into 50% reductions in incidence by 2025, compared with a base case scenario of the current US care continuum. We generated a large pool of simulations in which rates of screening, linkage, and retention in care were varied across wide ranges to evaluate permutations that halved incidence by 2025.

Results

Among all simulations, 7% achieved a halving of incidence. It was impossible for our simulations to achieve this target if the annual rate of disengagement from care exceeded 20% per year, even at high rates of care reengagement. When retention in care was 95% per year and people living with HIV (PLWH) out of care reengaged within 1.5 years (on average), the probability of halving incidence by 2025 was approximately 90%.

Conclusions

HIV programs should aim to retain at least 95% of PLWH in care annually and reengage people living with HIV into care within an average of 1.5 years to achieve the goal of halving HIV incidence by 2025.
Albedo of an irradiated plane-parallel atmosphere with finite optical depth
Authors: Fukue Jun
Published: January 2018

We analytically derive albedo for a plane-parallel atmosphere with finite optical depth, irradiated by an external source, under the local thermodynamic equilibrium approximation. Albedo is expressed as a function of the photon destruction probability ε and optical depth τ, with several parameters such as dilution factors of the external source. In the particular case of the infinite optical depth, albedo A is expressed as $A=[1 + (1-W_J/W_H)\sqrt{3\varepsilon }/3]/(1+\sqrt{3\varepsilon })$, where WJ and WH are the dilution factors for the mean intensity and Eddington flux, respectively. An example of a model atmosphere is also presented under a gray approximation.
Associations of Gross Motor Delay, Behavior, and Quality of Life in Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Hedgecock James B , Dannemiller Lisa A , Shui Amy M , Rapport Mary Jane , Katz Terry
Published: January 2018

Background

Young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have gross motor delays that may accentuate problem daytime behavior and health–related quality of life (QoL).

Objective

The objective of this study was to describe the degree of gross motor delays in young children with ASD and associations of gross motor delays with problem daytime behavior and QoL. The primary hypothesis was that Gross motor delays significantly modifies the associations between internalizing or externalizing problem daytime behavior and QoL.

Design

This study used a cross-sectional, retrospective analysis.

Methods

Data from 3253 children who were 2 to 6 years old and who had ASD were obtained from the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network and analyzed using unadjusted and adjusted linear regression. Measures included the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, 2nd edition, gross motor v-scale score (VABS-GM) (for Gross motor delays), the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) (for Problem daytime behavior), and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) (for QoL).

Results

The mean VABS-GM was 12.12 (SD = 2.2), representing performance at or below the 16th percentile. After adjustment for covariates, the internalizing CBCL t score decreased with increasing VABS-GM (β = − 0.64 SE = 0.12). Total and subscale PedsQL scores increased with increasing VABS-GM (for total score: β = 1.79 SE = 0.17; for subscale score: β = 0.9–2.66 SE = 0.17–0.25). CBCL internalizing and externalizing t scores decreased with increasing PedsQL total score (β = − 0.39 SE = 0.01; β = − 0.36 SE = 0.01). The associations between CBCL internalizing or externalizing t scores and PedsQL were significantly modified by VABSGM (β = − 0.026 SE = 0.005]; β = − 0.019 SE = 0.007).

Limitations

The study lacked ethnic and socioeconomic diversity. Measures were collected via parent report without accompanying clinical assessment.

Conclusions

Cross motor delay was independently associated with Problem daytime behavior and QoL in children with ASD. Gross motor delay modified the association between Problem daytime behavior and QoL. Children with ASD and co–occurring internalizing Problem daytime behavior had greater Gross motor delays than children without internalizing Problem daytime behavior; therefore, these children may be most appropriate for early physical therapist evaluation.
Analysis of Acetabular Ossification From the Triradiate Cartilage and Secondary Centers
Authors: Parvaresh Kevin C. , Pennock Andrew T. , Bomar James D. , Wenger Dennis R. , Upasani Vidyadhar V.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Acetabular development is a complex process that involves both endochondral growth from the triradiate cartilage (TRC) and intramembranous growth from the primary and secondary ossification centers of the innominate bones. Ponseti and others have described these centers including their contribution toward the development of normal acetabular shape. Prior studies have not utilized advanced imaging to study the appearance and closure of these secondary centers. The purpose of this study was to determine the chronological age at which the secondary ossification centers of the acetabulum appear and close and where there are any sex differences.

Methods:

Patients who underwent abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) scans between January 2009 and December 2014 at a pediatric hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Patients between age 6 and 16 years with adequate imaging of acetabulum were included. CT scans were assessed for the appearance and closure of the 3 acetabular secondary ossification centers [anterior (os pubis), superior (os ilium), and posterior (os ischium)] and closure of the TRC.

Results:

A total of 159 CT scans met inclusion criteria (66 males and 93 females). The median age of appearance of the secondary ossification centers was: posterior (10.1 females, 12.8 males), anterior (10.7 females, 13.4 males), and superior (11.1 females, 13.6 males). The median age of closure of the secondary ossification centers was: posterior (12.8 females, 13.6 males), anterior (12.8 females, 13.9 males), superior (14.5 females, 13.9 males), and TRC (14.5 females, 14.3 males). Most ossification centers in females appeared and closed approximately 2 to 3 years before males.

Conclusions:

Secondary ossification centers in the acetabulum appear sequentially (first posterior, then anterior, then superior), with almost all centers closing just before TRC. Closure occurs earlier in females than males. Knowledge of these centers and their closure patterns allows better radiologic readings (especially CT studies) and understanding of acetabular growth, allowing more informed management of childhood hip conditions including dysplasia, trauma, and over-use sports injuries.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—Diagnostic.
Punctuated 88% Phenol Peeling for the Treatment of Facial Photoaging: A Clinical and Histopathological Study
Authors: de Mendonça Maria Cristina C. , Segheto Natália N. , Aarestrup Fernando M. , Aarestrup Beatriz J.V.
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Phenol peeling is considered an important agent in the treatment of facial rejuvenation; however, its use has limitations due to its high potential for side effects.

OBJECTIVE

This article proposes a new peeling application technique for the treatment of photoaging, aiming to evaluate, clinically and histopathologically, the efficacy of a new way of applying 88% phenol, using a punctuated pattern.

METHODS

The procedure was performed in an outpatient setting, with female patients, on static wrinkles and high flaccidity areas of the face. Accompanying photographs and skin samples were taken for histopathological analysis before and after treatment.

RESULTS

It was shown that 88% phenol applied topically using a punctuated technique is effective in skin rejuvenation.

CONCLUSION

The authors thus suggest, based on this new proposal, that further studies be conducted with a larger group of patients to better elucidate the action mechanisms of 88% phenol. This new form of application considerably reduced patients' withdrawal from their regular activities, besides reducing the cost, compared with the conventional procedure.