bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of PNPLA3 rs738409 polymorphism with liver steatosis but not with cirrhosis in patients with HBV infection: Systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Ghalamkari Saman , Sharafi Heidar , Alavian Seyed Moayed
Published: December 2017

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a worldwide health issue and is well known for being the main cause of developing secondary liver complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The PNPLA3 rs738409 polymorphism has been investigated conclusively with occurrence risk of steatosis and cirrhosis. Therefore, performing a meta‐analysis of the available studies with the aim of clarifying the association between rs738409 and occurrence risk of steatosis and cirrhosis among HBV‐infected patients would be helpful.

Methods

Chronic HBV infection was defined as the persistence of HBsAg for more than 6 months. To gather sufficient data for this meta‐analysis, reliable databases were conclusively searched using appropriate keywords. Only studies that satisfied the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the present study.

Results

This meta‐analysis pooled four studies with 1135 cases of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) to evaluate the impact of PNPLA3 SNP on liver steatosis and also pooled five studies with 3713 cases of CHB to evaluate the impact of PNPLA3 SNP on cirrhosis. The association of rs738409 with each complication was investigated. The rs738409 was found to be associated with steatosis in recessive [p = 4.57 × 10–6, odds ratio (OR) = 2.85], dominant (p = 4.35 × 10‐6, OR = 1.84), co‐dominant (p = 6.18 × 10‐8; OR = 3.74) and allelic (p = 9.79 × 10‐9; OR = 1.78) models. No association was found between rs738409 and cirrhosis development in recessive (p = 0.99, OR = 1.00), dominant (p = 0.30, OR = 0.92), co‐dominant (p = 0.74; OR = 0.96) and allelic (p = 0.45; OR = 0.96) models.

Conclusions

Although the PNPLA3 rs738409 G allele has been associated with the risk of steatosis in CHB patients, no association between this polymorphism and the risk of cirrhosis was seen.
Influence of Proactive Personality on Career Self‐Efficacy
Authors: Kim Hyang Sook , Park In‐Jo
Published: December 2017

This study examined the relationship between proactive personality and career decision‐making self‐efficacy. In Study 1, the authors validated the Proactive Personality Scale–Korean Short Form, using the Rasch model with 315 participants, and found that fit statistics, point‐measure correlations, and item difficulty estimates satisfy the construct validity criterion. In Study 2, the authors administered the Proactive Personality Scale, Career Decision‐Making Self‐Efficacy Scale, and Career Search Self‐Efficacy Scale to 296 freshman and sophomore college students. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that proactive personality scores explain additional variance in both career decision‐making self‐efficacy and career search self‐efficacy scores. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Inorganic light‐emitting diode displays using micro‐transfer printing
Authors: Cok Ronald S. , Meitl Matthew , Rotzoll Robert , Melnik George , Fecioru Alin , Trindade Antonio Jose , Raymond Brook , Bonafede Salvatore , Gomez David , Moore Tanya , Prevatte Carl , Radauscher Erich , Goodwin Scott , Hines Paul , Bower Christopher A.
Published: December 2017

Large quantities of microscopic red, green, and blue light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) made of crystalline inorganic semiconductor materials micro‐transfer printed in large quantities onto rigid or flexible substrates form monochrome and color displays having a wide range of sizes and interesting properties. Transfer‐printed micro‐LED displays promise excellent environmental robustness, brightness, spatial resolution, and efficiency. Passive‐matrix and active‐matrix inorganic LED displays were constructed, operated, and their attributes measured. Tests demonstrate that inorganic micro‐LED displays have outstanding color, viewing angle, and transparency. Yield improvement techniques include redundancy, physical repair, and electronic correction. Micro‐transfer printing enables revolutionary manufacturing strategies in which microscale LEDs are first assembled into miniaturized micro‐system “light engines,” and then micro‐transfer printed and interconnected directly to metallized large‐format panels. This paper reviews micro‐transfer printing technology for micro‐LED displays.
Improved adductor function after canine recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and repair using muscle progenitor cells
Authors: Paniello Randal C. , Brookes Sarah , Bhatt Neel K. , Bijangi‐Vishehsaraei Khadijeh , Zhang Hongji , Halum Stacey
Published: December 2017

Objective

Muscle progenitor cells (MPCs) can be isolated from muscle samples and grown to a critical mass in culture. They have been shown to survive and integrate when implanted into rat laryngeal muscles. In this study, the ability of MPC implants to enhance adductor function of reinnervated thyroarytenoid muscles was tested in a canine model.

Study Design

Animal study.

Methods

Sternocleidomastoid muscle samples were harvested from three canines. Muscle progenitor cells were isolated and cultured to 107 cells over 4 to 5 weeks, then implanted into right thyroarytenoid muscles after ipsilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve transection and repair. The left sides underwent the same nerve injury, but no cells were implanted. Laryngeal adductor force was measured pretreatment and again 6 months later, and the muscles were harvested for histology.

Results

Muscle progenitor cells were successfully cultured from all dogs. Laryngeal adductor force measurements averaged 60% of their baseline pretreatment values in nonimplanted controls, 98% after implantation with MPCs, and 128% after implantation with motor endplate‐enhanced MPCs. Histology confirmed that the implanted MPCs survived, became integrated into thyroarytenoid muscle fibers, and were in close contact with nerve endings, suggesting functional innervation.

Conclusion

Muscle progenitor cells were shown to significantly enhance adductor function in this pilot canine study. Patient‐specific MPC implantation could potentially be used to improve laryngeal function in patients with vocal fold paresis/paralysis, atrophy, and other conditions. Further experiments are planned.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 2017
Limb Kinetic Apraxia Is an Independent Predictor for Quality of Life in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Vanbellingen Tim , Hofmänner Dinah , Kübel Stefanie , Bohlhalter Stephan
Published: December 2017

Background

Impaired dexterity is a common symptom in Parkinson's disease (PD) and has been related to limb kinetic apraxia (LKA). LKA negatively influenced activities of daily living (ADL) in PD. However, the impact on quality of life (QoL) remains to be clarified, which was the aim of the current study.

Methods

Eighty nondemented patients with PD and 60 age‐matched, sex‐matched healthy individuals participated in this study. The 39‐item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire was used to measure QoL. Dexterity was assessed by the coin rotation (CR) task and the ADL‐related Dexterity Questionnaire 24. Nonmotor symptoms were monitored with part I of the Movement Disorder Society‐Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, and motor symptoms were measured with parts II and III of the modified Movement Disorder Society‐Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale.

Results

Regression analysis revealed that dexterity scores controlled for parkinsonian motor symptoms were a strong and independent predictor of QoL in patients with PD.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that the strong association of impaired dexterity and QoL is independent of bradykinesia, thereby underscoring the clinical relevance of LKA in PD.
Monte Carlo study of ionization chamber magnetic field correction factors as a function of angle and beam quality
Authors: Malkov Victor N. , Rogers D. W. O.
Published: December 2017

Purpose

To use EGSnrc Monte Carlo simulations for magnetic field dosimetry to determine optimal measurement orientations, calculate beam quality conversion factors for 32 cylindrical and three parallel‐plate (PP) ion chambers, evaluate the beam quality and angular dependence of these factors, and examine the magnetic field effects on %dd(10)x and TPR.

Methods

Beam quality conversion factors, k, and magnetic field conversion factors, kB = k/kQ, are calculated as a function of chamber rotation for six cylindrical ionization chamber in either a 60Co beam with a 0.35 T magnetic field or a 7 MV beam with a 1.5 T field, both magnetic fields are perpendicular to the photon beam. The chambers’ sensitive air volumes are varied by either using the entire geometric volume or excluding the air volume associated with the first 1 mm away from the stem. The kB and k factors are evaluated using four clinical photon spectra. The variation in %dd(10)x and TPR as a function of magnetic field for six photon spectra are studied using DOSXYZnrc.

Results

When the magnetic field is perpendicular to the photon beam, orienting the chamber parallel with the magnetic field reduces the magnetic field effect on chamber response (i.e., dose to air per water dose) and variations due to the unknown sensitive volume are essentially eliminated. Calculated kB factors are within 1% of unity for the majority of cylindrical chambers, although larger kB values are associated with chambers with high‐Z electrodes. PP chambers have kB corrections as large as 8.9% and have a larger angular sensitivity compared to cylindrical chambers. Values of kB for cylindrical ion chambers are independent of beam quality, except for chambers with high‐Z electrodes. For %dd(10)x values between 63.3% and 73.8%, kB varies by at most (0.26 ± 0.15)% when the magnetic field is perpendicular to the photon beam and parallel to the chamber. Differences in %dd(10)x, between no magnetic field and with a 1.5 T field perpendicular to the photon beam are (0.04 ± 0.10)%, (1.89 ± 0.10)%, and (6.20 ± 0.10)% for a 60Co, 7, and 25 MV photon beam, respectively, while TPR shows less than (0.36 ± 0.10)% change. Applying the ICRU‐90 recommendations for stopping powers instead of ICRU‐37 is found to change kQ (and hence kB) by less than 0.1%.

Conclusions

Orienting the chamber parallel to the magnetic field when the field is perpendicular to the photon beam will minimize the effect of the magnetic field on chamber response, and eliminate the problem of the unknown sensitive volume. Values of kB and k can bring ion chamber dosimetry in magnetic fields in‐line with the TG‐51 protocol. PP chamber are sensitive to the magnetic field and variation in chamber response due to small angular changes makes them unlikely candidates for clinical reference dosimetry in magnetic fields. The stability in TPR, as a function of magnetic fields and beam qualities, makes it the best beam quality specifier in magnetic fields.
AGRAPES‐based mesoscale ensemble prediction system for tropical cyclone forecasting: configuration and performance
Authors: Zhang Xubin
Published: December 2017

To improve short‐range tropical cyclone (TC) forecasting in China from both deterministic and probabilistic standpoints, a mesoscale ensemble prediction system (TREPS) based on the Global/Regional Assimilation and Prediction System (GRAPES) is constructed as a planned operational system.TREPScomprises one unperturbed and 30 perturbed forecasts ranging up to 60 h at 0.09° horizontal resolution. Downscaling perturbations from the European Centre for Medium‐range Forecasts' (ECMWF) ensemble prediction system (ENS) are used to generate initial perturbations by blending them with balanced random perturbations implemented around theTCand to generate perturbations for lateral boundary conditions. The surface temperature around theTCis also perturbed, with a combination of multi‐physics and stochastically perturbed parametrization tendencies considered to represent uncertainties in the model physics. These perturbation methods contribute a full‐area, multi‐scale and multi‐variable mutual complement to increasing forecast perturbations.

TREPSis evaluated for 19TCsmaking landfall in China during 2014–2016. For deterministic guidance,TREPSsignificantly improvesTCforecasting for intensity, rainfall and wind compared toECMWFdeterministic and ensemble forecasts.TREPSdemonstrates significant advantages over its deterministic forecasts in predicting track, intensity, (extremely) heavy rainfall and wind. Furthermore,TREPSeffectively reduces the degree of underdispersion in intensity forecasting compared toENS. For probabilistic forecasting,TREPSoutperformsENSin accurately predicting extremely heavy rainfall and (extremely) strong wind owing to its better discriminating ability, but performs worse in predicting modest wind, light and heavy rainfall. Two post‐processing techniques – optimal member and optimal probability – to improve, respectively, deterministic and probabilistic guidance ofTREPSin rainfall and wind forecasting are proposed. The former is shown to be effective only for light rainfall, while the latter demonstrates consistent (partial) improvements in rainfall (wind). The superiorities and inferiorities ofTREPS, as well as possible reasons for these, are intuitively illustrated in a case‐study forRammasun.
Influence of Temperature Control System on the Crystallization Behavior of Magnetite Phases in Nickel Slags
Authors: Shen Yingying , Chen Min , Zhang Yanyun , Xu Xiangqun , Li Guozhou , Du Xueyan
Published: December 2017

Water‐quenched nickel slags from a flash furnace are treated by using a molten oxidation method, after which, the cooling rate and holding conditions are controlled, so the iron components in the nickel slags are precipitated as magnetite phases (Fe3O4). This study explores the influence of cooling rate, holding time, and holding temperature on the crystallization and growth of magnetite phases. The results show that, with the reduction of cooling rate, phase compositions in oxidized slags changes insignificantly, while the particle size and the magnetite crystallization content (MCC) increase with fully developed crystals. As the holding time is increased, there is sufficient time for magnetite to develop into full crystals because the slags are kept within the range of the crystallization temperature for a long time. With the decrease of holding temperature, MCC gradually increases. By describing the kinetics of the isothermal magnetite crystallization according to the JMAK equation, the growth index of crystals (n) and the crystallization activation energy (E) are calculated to be approximately 0.48 and −192.37 kJ mol−1, respectively.
Review on Modeling and Simulation of Continuous Casting
Authors: Thomas Brian G.
Published: December 2017

Continuous casting is a mature, sophisticated technological process, used to produce most of the world's steel, so is worthy of fundamentally‐based computational modeling. It involves many interacting phenomena including heat transfer, solidification, multiphase turbulent flow, clogging, electromagnetic effects, complex interfacial behavior, particle entrapment, thermal‐mechanical distortion, stress, cracks, segregation, and microstructure formation. Furthermore, these phenomena are transient, three‐dimensional, and operate over wide length and time scales. This paper reviews the current state of the art in modeling these phenomena, focusing on practical applications to the formation of defects. It emphasizes model verification and validation of model predictions. The models reviewed range from fast and simple for implementation into online model‐based control systems to sophisticated multiphysics simulations that incorporate many coupled phenomena. Both the accomplishments and remaining challenges are discussed.
Electrical design of large‐scale tubular PM linear generators for wave energy conversion
Authors: Jing Hailian , Maki Naoki , Ida Tetsuya , Izumi Mitsuru
Published: December 2017

We propose a novel conceptual structure of a large‐scale wave energy converter (WEC) and develop an electrical design method for tubular permanent magnet linear generators (PM‐LGs) adopted in the WEC. We describe the electrical design method of the PM‐LGs in detail, with design results of 1 MW PM‐LGs presented. Magnetic flux distribution obtained by the simulation is further analyzed, which shows good agreement with the design results. The electrical design method of large‐scale PM‐LGs described in this paper provides a reference to design large‐scale electric machines.
Using Intelligent Personal Assistants for Second Language Learning: A Case Study of Alexa
Authors: Dizon Gilbert
Published: December 2017

The proliferation of smartphones has given rise to intelligent personal assistants (IPAs), software that helps users accomplish day‐to‐day tasks. However, little is known about IPAs in the context of second language (L2) learning. Therefore, the primary objectives of this case study were twofold: to assess the ability of Amazon's IPA, Alexa, to understand L2 English utterances and to investigate student opinions of the IPA. Four university students of English as a foreign language (EFL) in Japan participated in the study, which involved each participant interacting with Alexa in a 20‐min session. Three sets of data were collected and analyzed to achieve the study's aims: learner‐generated command performance, interactive storytelling performance, and interviews. The quantitative results showed that Alexa accurately understood only 50% of learner commands, whereas comprehensibility during the interactive storytelling skill, Earplay, was much higher (90%). Three themes were identified from the interviews based on criteria developed by Hubbard (): hindered learner efficiency due to the lack of first language (L1) support, improved learner effectiveness through indirect pronunciation feedback, and better access to conversational opportunities. These findings demonstrate that EFL learners perceive Alexa to be a potentially useful tool to enhance language learning and underscore the need for additional (L2) research of IPAs.
Massive Materieinjektion in das Ultrahochvakuum thermonuklearer Fusionsanlagen
Authors: Dibon Mathias , Lang Peter , Pautasso Gabriella , Herrmann Albrecht , Mertens Vitus , Neu Rudolf , Ploeckl Bernhard
Published: December 2017

Die Injektion großer Mengen von Material in Fusionsplasmen ist eine der technischen Herausforderungen heutiger Fusionsforschung. Die Einbringung verschiedener Stoffe hat zum Ziel, Brennstoff in das Plasma einzubringen, Instabilitäten zu kontrollieren, den Energieeinschluss des Plasmas zu verbessern, für bessere Vakuumbedingungen zu sorgen oder im Falle von Disruptionen die Folgen (hohe Wärmelasten, hohe elektromagnetische Kräfte, relativistische Elektronen) zu mindern. Um das Vakuumsystem der Fusionsanlage nicht unnötig zu belasten, werden für die Injektion Pellets oder konzentrierte Gaspulse eingesetzt. Pellets sind Festkörper mit Volumina von wenigen mm3 die entweder aus Material bei Raumtemperatur bestehen oder aus kryogenen Gasen. Die Pellets werden mit Zentrifugen oder Gaskanonen auf bis zu 1500 m/s beschleunigt und mit Frequenzen von bis zu 140 Pellets/s in das Plasma geschossen. Die Gaspulse werden mittels Hochgeschwindigkeitsventilen erzeugt, die sich wenige Zentimeter vom Plasmarand entfernt befinden.
Reducing the costs of landscape restoration by using invasive alien plant biomass for bioenergy
Authors: Stafford William HL , Von Maltitz Graham P , Watson Helen K
Published: December 2017

South Africa's natural resources are severely impacted by invasive alien plants (IAPs). As water is a scarce resource, the national Working for Water (WfW) program was established in 1995 to restore landscapes by eradicating IAPs. Since then, considerable progress has been made with about three million hectares cleared. However, the costs of doing so have been substantial and the overall area invaded has increased while new species have become invasive. Focusing on terrestrial woody IAPs, this study reviews the extent of IAPs as well as efforts to eradicate them, and identifies value‐adding opportunities to use the cleared IAP biomass for reducing the costs of landscape restoration. Since bioenergy is suited to a large portion of the biomass, and energy powers socio‐economic growth and development, this opportunity was explored in detail, with a focus on generating electricity. Bioenergy businesses struggle to be financially feasible due to the significant costs to access, harvest, and secure the widely distributed and varied IAP biomass. The costs of eradicating IAPs can be substantially offset by the potential benefits from using IAP biomass for producing bioenergy and biomaterial, as well as from a wide range of ecosystem services from the restored landscapes. Incorporating the values of these benefits into the business case for clearing IAPs can accelerate and upscale landscape restoration programs, while creating jobs in the environmental goods and services sector, and facilitating the transition to a Green economy. WIREs Energy Environ 2018, 7:e272. doi: 10.1002/wene272.

This article is categorized under:

Bioenergy > Science and Materials

Bioenergy > Economics and Policy

Bioenergy > Climate and Environment
Nickel hyperaccumulation in Antidesma montis‐silam: from herbarium discovery to collection in the native habitat
Authors: Nkrumah Philip Nti , Echevarria Guillaume , Erskine Peter Damian , van der Ent Antony
Published: December 2017

The majority of nickel hyperaccumulator plant species have been discovered by screening using a field spot test based on dimethylglyoxime. Recently, the use of a portable X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy instruments has enabled non‐destructive analyses of existing herbarium collections. Given that the family Phyllanthaceae globally has the greatest numbers of hyperaccumulators, all available specimens from this family, including the speciose genus Antidesma, at the Forest Research Centre Herbarium in Sabah, Malaysia, were analysed. The results reveal 9 new manganese hyperaccumulators in the genus Antidesma, including Antidesma puncticulatum, with manganese concentrations reaching up to 46,400 µg g−1. Prior to this study, only one manganese hyperaccumulator had been recorded in Sabah. The present study is the first to discover nickel hyperaccumulator plant species (four species) in the genus Antidesma, including Antidesma montis‐silam with concentrations reaching up to 32,700 µg g−1. Further collection and analyses of plant material of Antidesma montis‐silam in the native habitat confirmed the high foliar nickel concentrations. The high nickel hyperaccumulating characteristic and ostensibly fast growth rate of Antidesma montis‐silam infer potential for use in agromining technology. Some species in the genus Antidesma exhibit co‐accumulation of manganese and nickel. This case‐study shows how herbarium XRF screening can lead to discovery of taxa with unique properties.
Old building, new public: The renovation of the Forney Art Library in Paris
Authors: Trunel Lucile
Published: December 2017

The renovation project of the Forney Decorative and Applied Arts Library in Paris, belonging to the Paris Specialized Libraries' Network, not only concerns the modernization, restructuring and security of the building, an historical monument, but also the library usage, with an ambitious cultural project underpinning the rooms' refurbishment aimed at providing greater public access to the library, the building, and the spectacular visual collections. New visitors, alongside established readers, are welcomed in the heart of the tourist centre of Paris.
Disjunction in Paul: Apocalyptic or Christomorphic? Comparing theApocalypse of Weekswith Galatians
Authors: Williams Logan
Published: December 2017

This article compares theApocalypse of Weekswith Galatians to examine whether the motif ofcreatio e contrariois apocalyptic. While reviewing the themes of revelation, salvation and eschatology in each text, it argues thatcreatio e contrariois absent from and theologically foreign to theApocalypse; by contrast, this motif permeates Galatians, not because Paul retrieves it from the apocalypses but because for him the divine economy is shaped by the disjunctive,e contrariohistory of the crucified and risen Christ. Thus,creatio e contrarioshould be classified not as apocalyptic but as christomorphic.
Hermogenes the Smith and Narrative Characterisation inThe Acts of Paul: A Note on the Reception of 2 Timothy
Authors: Edsall Benjamin A.
Published: December 2017

The figures of Demas and Hermogenes in theActs of Paulare puzzling for their ambiguous relation with figures by the same name in 2 Timothy (and, for Demas, in Philemon and Colossians). The purpose of the present article is to question what personal biographical details present in the Thecla narrative contribute to larger issues of literary dependence, focusing in particular on the notice that Hermogenes is a ‘coppersmith’. Although several scholars explain this passing reference in terms of a confused literary dependence on previous Pauline traditions, it is rarely approached as a meaningful narrative feature. This personal detail, however, should be read for its contribution to the Thecla narrative in light of the wider early Christian view of ‘smiths’, running from the New Testament texts into the third century and later. When these elements are taken into account, the smith-notice is highlighted as characterising Hermogenes (and, by extension, Demas) negatively.
Skinny blues: Karen Carpenter, anorexia nervosa and popular music
Authors: McKay George
Published: December 2017

This article discusses an extraordinary body in popular music, that belonging to the person with anorexia which is also usually a gendered body – female – and that of the singer or frontperson. I explore the relation between the anorexic body and popular music, which is more than simply looking at constructions of anorexia in pop. It involves contextually thinking about the (medical) history and the critical reception and representation, the place of anorexia across the creative industries more widely, and a particular moment when pop played a role in the public awareness of anorexia. Following such context the article looks in more detail at a small number of popular music artists who had experience of anorexia, their stage and media presentations (of it), and how they did or apparently did not explore their experience of it in their own work and public appearances. This close discussion is framed within thinking about the popular music industry's capacity for carelessness, its schedule of pressure and practice of destruction on its own stars, particularly in this instance its female artists. This is an article about a condition and an industry. At its heart is the American singer and drummer Karen Carpenter (1950–1983), a major international pop star in the 1970s, in the Carpenters duo with her brother Richard; the other figures discussed are Scottish child pop star Lena Zavaroni (1963–1999), and the Welsh rock lyricist, stylist and erstwhile guitarist of the Manic Street Preachers, Richey Edwards (1967–1995 missing/2008 officially presumed dead).
The Comparative Culpability of SAI and Ordinary Carbon Emissions
Authors: Lawford-Smith Holly
Published: December 2017

In his article “Carbon Emissions, Stratospheric Aerosol Injection, and Unintended Harms,” Christopher J. Preston compares the culpability of carbon emitters versus that of geoengineers deploying stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI). This comparison relies on a parallel between carbon emitters and SAI deployers that requires both to be agents. However, both are not. While the harms of geoengineering will be caused by culpable agents acting intentionally, the harms connected to climate change emerge out of the uncoordinated actions of billions of people. Taken as a large group, carbon emitters cause harm but do not constitute an agent. Taken individually, carbon emitters are agents but do not cause the harms of climate change. As a result, the parallel collapses, and Preston's “surprising” conclusion is one that he is not entitled to reach.
CYCLES OF DEATH AND REBIRTH IN MESOAMERICAN CULTURAL ASTRONOMY AND THE CALENDAR
Authors: Dowd Anne S.
Published: December 2017

“Mesoamerican Cultural Astronomy and the Calendar” is a Special Section including articles that explore portions of Mesoamerica where astronomy and calendars were studied by Indigenous peoples. Scholars who are well known for innovative work in astronomy, such as Aveni, as well as Pineda de Carías, Rivera, and Argueta, consider topics that fall under the rubric of cultural astronomy. Epigraphers or experts in hieroglyphic writing, like Justeson and Vail, deal in explicit ways with issues related to calendar development. An art historian, Milbrath, weighs in on the meaning of astronomical and calendar themes using important documents incorporating both images and texts. An archaeologist, Dowd, and an architect, Carrasco, discuss architectural complexes with orientations significant in horizon-based astronomy. This rich cross-disciplinary collection of articles debuts new discoveries that interweave astronomy, time measurement, and ritual behavior commemorating cycles of death and rebirth among Maya peoples who lived betweena.d.225–1519 in what is now Honduras, Belize, Mexico, and Guatemala.
The symmetries and asymmetries of human–thing relations. A dialogue
Authors: Hodder Ian , Lucas Gavin
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a dialogue about the question of symmetry and asymmetry in human–thing relations, and the links between such asymmetries and those encountered in power relations amongst humans. The conversation discusses various issues, such as whether symmetry is possible in any kind of relation, how one defines asymmetry, whether there are different kinds of asymmetry, and how inequality between humans is related to the asymmetries in human–thing entanglements. The last issue is considered especially important in light of the various critiques that have been levelled at actor networks and other relational materialisms for their weakened political stance insofar as sources of inequality and injustice are so widely distributed that they become, in effect, apolitical.
Divergent effects of acute and repeated quetiapine treatment on dopamine neuron activity in normal vs. chronic mild stress induced hypodopaminergic states
Authors: Moreines Jared L. , Owrutsky Zoe L. , Gagnon Kimberly G. , Grace Anthony A.
Published: December 2017

Clinical evidence supports the use of second-generation dopamine D2 receptor antagonists (D2RAs) as adjunctive therapy or in some cases monotherapy in patients with depression. However, the mechanism for the clinical antidepressant effect of D2RAs remains unclear. Specifically, given accumulating evidence for decreased ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine system function in depression, an antidepressant effect of a medication that is expected to further reduce dopamine system activity seems paradoxical. In the present paper we used electrophysiological single unit recordings of identified VTA dopamine neurons to characterize the impact of acute and repeated administration of the D2RA quetiapine at antidepressant doses in non-stressed rats and those exposed to the chronic mild stress (CMS) rodent depression model, the latter modeling the hypodopaminergic state observed in patients with depression. We found that acute quetiapine increased dopamine neuron population activity in non-stressed rats, but not in CMS-exposed rats. Conversely, repeated quetiapine increased VTA dopamine neuron population activity to normal levels in CMS-exposed rats, but had no persisting effects in non-stressed rats. These data suggest that D2RAs may exert their antidepressant actions via differential effects on the dopamine system in a normal vs. hypoactive state. This explanation is supported by prior studies showing that D2RAs differentially impact the dopamine system in animal models of schizophrenia and normal rats; the present results extend this phenomenon to an animal model of depression. These data highlight the importance of studying medications in the context of animal models of psychiatric disorders as well as normal conditions.
RNAs coordinate nuclear envelope assembly and DNA replication through ELYS recruitment to chromatin
Authors: Aze Antoine , Fragkos Michalis , Bocquet Stéphane , Cau Julien , Méchali Marcel
Published: December 2017

Upon fertilisation, the sperm pronucleus acquires the competence to replicate the genome through a cascade of events that link chromatin remodelling to nuclear envelope formation. The factors involved have been partially identified and are poorly characterised. Here, using Xenopus laevis egg extracts we show that RNAs are required for proper nuclear envelope assembly following sperm DNA decondensation. Although chromatin remodelling and pre-replication complex formation occur normally, RNA-depleted extracts show a defect in pre-RC activation. The nuclear processes affected by RNA-depletion included ELYS recruitment, which accounts for the deficiency in nuclear pore complex assembly. This results in failure in chromatin relaxation as well as in the import and proper nuclear concentration of the S-phase kinases necessary for DNA replication activation. Our results highlight a translation-independent RNA function necessary for the parental genome progression towards the early embryonic cell cycle programme.
Author Correction: An in planta biolistic method for stable wheat transformation
Authors: Hamada Haruyasu , Linghu Qianyan , Nagira Yozo , Miki Ryuji , Taoka Naoaki , Imai Ryozo
Published: December 2017

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML version of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
High-throughput RNA sequencing reveals distinct gene signatures in active IgG4-related disease
Authors: Higgs Brandon W. , Liu Yanying , Guo Jianping , Sebastian Yinong , Morehouse Chris , Zhu Wei , Ren Limin , Liu Mengru , Du Yan , Yu Guangyan , Dong Lingli , Hua Hong , Wei Pan , Wang Yi , Wang Zhengang , Yao Yihong , Li Zhan-Guo
Published: December 2017

We aimed to characterize the molecular differences and effects from prednisone treatment among IgG4-related disease with salivary gland lesions (RD-SG), without SG lesions (RD-nonSG), and IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis (RF). RNA sequencing was conducted on blood from 25 RD-SG, 11 RD-nonSG, 3 RF and 10 control subjects. Among these, 8 RD-nonSG and 12 RD-SG patients were subjected to treatment with prednisone and/or glucocorticoid-sparing agents. Six RD patients had a longitudinal time point. The mRNA levels of IgG4 and IgE, genes specific for Th2 cells, eosinophils, and neutrophils were over-expressed in RD-SG and RD-nonSG. A B-cell signature was suppressed in patients group versus controls, while Th1, Th2, Treg, and eosinophil gene signatures were increased in patients without treatment. Interestingly, Tfh genes and B cell signature were decreased at flare disease state. Prednisone treatment led to increased neutrophil, but decreased Treg signatures. Serum IgG4 levels correlated with the eosinophil and neutrophil gene signatures in RD-SG patients, and with a B cell signature in only RD-nonSG patients. IgG4, IgE, and cell-specific signatures are regulated in patients, suggesting the imbalance of immune and inflammatory cells in IgG4-related disease. Prednisone treatment selectively modulates Treg, eosinophil, and neutrophil signatures.
A novel turn-on fluorescent probe for the multi-channel detection of Zn2+ and Bi3+ with different action mechanisms
Authors: Guang Shanyi , Wei Gang , Yan Zhengquan , Zhang Yuehua , Zhao Gang , Wu Rongliang , Xu Hongyao
Published: December 2017

A novel multifunctional sensor, RSPT, was identified and developed for multichannel turn-on fluorescent responses to Zn2+ and Bi3+ in practice.
Crystalline and permanently porous porphyrin-based metal tetraphosphonates
Authors: Rhauderwiek Timo , Wolkersdörfer Konrad , Øien-Ødegaard Sigurd , Lillerud Karl-Petter , Wark Michael , Stock Norbert
Published: December 2017

The first porous MOF containing a porphyrin-based phosphonic acid was synthesized and characterized regarding its sorption properties and proton conductivity.
Alternating ring-opening metathesis polymerization by Grubbs-type catalysts with N-pentiptycenyl, N-alkyl-NHC ligands
Authors: Vasiuta Roman , Stockert Alexander , Plenio Herbert
Published: December 2017

A Grubbs–Hoveyda type catalyst with a N-pentiptycenyl, N-cyclohexyl-NHC ligand provides poly(nbe-alt-coe) with an excellent degree of alternation.
A metal–metalloporphyrin framework based on an octatopic porphyrin ligand for chemical fixation of CO2with aziridines
Authors: Wang Xun , Gao Wen-Yang , Niu Zheng , Wojtas Lukasz , Perman Jason A. , Chen Yu-Sheng , Li Zhong , Aguila Briana , Ma Shengqian
Published: December 2017

A new porous metal–metalloporphyrin framework, MMPF-10, was synthesized for CO2cycloaddition with aziridines.
Formation of multi-component crystals with a series of pyridinium-carboxyacrylate zwitterions
Authors: Lombard Jean , Loots Leigh , le Roex Tanya , Haynes Delia A.
Published: December 2017

Analysis of the extensive hydrogen-bonding networks in the melaminium salts of a series of organic zwitterions gives insight into why so few multicomponent crystals were observed.
Solvent effect on the intermolecular proton transfer of the Watson and Crick guanine–cytosine and adenine–thymine base pairs: a polarizable continuum model study
Authors: Romero Eduardo E. , Hernandez Florencio E.
Published: December 2017

Understanding double proton transfer in rare tautomers and its implication in the promotion of spontaneous mutations in DNA base pairs.
Controllable dissociation of H2O on a CeO2(111) surface
Authors: Fan J. , Xu B. , Zhao J. Z. , Xu H.
Published: December 2017

The lattice strain is an effective approach to tune the adsorption states of H2O on metal oxide surfaces.
Influence of chalcogen composition on the structural transition and on the electronic and optical properties of the monolayer titanium trichalcogenide ordered alloys
Authors: Ersan F. , Ozaydin H. D. , Aktürk E.
Published: December 2017

Based on first-principles spin-polarized density functional theory, we investigate the effects of chalcogen composition on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of monolayer(where X and X′ = S, Se, Te) ordered alloys with values ofxof 0, 0.167, 0.333, 0.500, 0.667, 0.833, and 1.
Intrinsic sources of high thermal conductivity of CdSiP2 determined by first-principle anharmonic calculations
Authors: Wei Lei , Zhang Yuanyuan , Lv Xianshun , Yang Yuguo , Yu Huajian , Hu Yanyan , Zhang Huadi , Wang Xuping , Liu Bing , Li Qinggang
Published: December 2017

The high thermal conductivity of CdSiP2 stems from long acoustic phonon lifetime and large optic phonon velocity.
High-valent nitridorhenium(v) complexes containing PNP ligands: implications of ligand flexibility
Authors: Lambic Nikola S. , Sommer Roger D. , Ison Elon A.
Published: December 2017

The synthesis of (PNP)Re(N)X (PNP = [2-P(CHMe2)2-4-MeC6H3]2N, X = Cl and Me) complexes is described.
In situ formation of NbOx@NbN microcomposites: seeking potential in photocatalytic and Li-ion battery applications
Authors: Ma Xiaoqing , Chen Yang , Lee Jordan , Yang Chaofan , Cui Xiaoli
Published: December 2017

A NbOx@NbN microcomposite formed by in situ partial thermal oxidation is revealed to be potentially advantageous in photocatalytic hydrogen production and lithium-ion storage.
Triplet energy vs. electron transfers in porphyrin- and tetrabenzoporphyrin-carboxylates/Pd3(dppm)3(CO)2+ cluster assemblies; a question of negative charge
Authors: Luo Peng , Karsenti Paul-Ludovic , Marsan Benoit , Harvey Pierre D.
Published: December 2017

The simple replacement of the methyl groups by carboxylates changes the dominant quenching mechanism in dye⋯[Pd32+]x assemblies from energy to electron transfer.
Stable nanoconjugates of transferrin with alloyed quaternary nanocrystals Ag–In–Zn–S as a biological entity for tumor recognition
Authors: Matysiak-Brynda Edyta , Bujak Piotr , Augustin Ewa , Kowalczyk Agata , Mazerska Zofia , Pron Adam , Nowicka Anna M.
Published: December 2017

Nanoconjugates of transferrin with alloyed quaternary nanocrystals (Tf-QD) can be considered as potential entities for the recognition of tumor cells.
Design of 0.35–1.5 GHz 16‐input and 8‐output switch matrix with 5 × 5 chessboard structure
Authors: Zhang Guiheng , Zhang Wei , Fu Jun , Li Zhuang
Published: December 2017

This Letter presents a 0.35–1.5 GHz 5 × 5 switch matrix chip with a chessboard structure. In the proposed structure, by reassigning the position and switch mode of 25 passive switch grids which almost consume no DC power, the switch matrix can choose and transmit any eight of 16 input signals to the output ports on four directions at the same time. Throughput and the expansion ability of the switch matrix are markedly improved by flexibly choosing a signal path and reusing the switch grids. Besides, wideband gain compensation circuit modules and gain equalisers are used to compensate for insertion loss and gain flatness of the switch matrix. Fabricated by 0.18 μm SiGe BiCMOS technology, the measured highest insertion gain of a signal path is 10 dB. Meanwhile, insertion gains of all signal paths are higher than −6 dB, and isolations of all signal paths are better than 40 dB.
Isotopic ratios in outbursting comet C/2015 ER61
Authors: Yang Bin , Hutsemékers Damien , Shinnaka Yoshiharu , Opitom Cyrielle , Manfroid Jean , Jehin Emmanuël , Meech Karen J. , Hainaut Olivier R. , Keane Jacqueline V. , Gillon Michaël
Published: December 2017

Isotopic ratios in comets are critical to understanding the origin of cometary material and the physical and chemical conditions in the early solar nebula. Comet C/2015 ER61 (PANSTARRS) underwent an outburst with a total brightness increase of 2 magnitudes on the night of 2017 April 4. The sharp increase in brightness offered a rare opportunity to measure the isotopic ratios of the light elements in the coma of this comet. We obtained two high-resolution spectra of C/2015 ER61 with UVES/VLT on the nights of 2017 April 13 and 17. At the time of our observations, the comet was fading gradually following the outburst. We measured the nitrogen and carbon isotopic ratios from the CN violet (0, 0) band and found that12C/13C = 100 ± 15,14N/15N = 130 ± 15. In addition, we determined the14N/15N ratio from four pairs of NH2isotopolog lines and measured14N/15N = 140 ± 28. The measured isotopic ratios of C/2015 ER61 do not deviate significantly from those of other comets.
Wissenschaftliches Schreiben
Authors: Bagusche S.
Published: December 2017

Hintergrund: Für viele Schreibprojekte ist die Recherche von grundlegender Bedeutung. Sie kann helfen, den Stand der Forschung zu ermitteln, Hypothesen zu entwickeln oder Daten zu sammeln, mit denen sich eigene Aussagen stützen lassen.

Ziel: Dieser 2. Teil der Ratgeberserie zum wissenschaftlichen Schreiben beschreibt eine Reihe von Hilfsmitteln, die bei der Literatursuche von Nutzen sein können.

Methode: Ausgehend von der Unterscheidung zwischen Primär-, Sekundär- und Tertiärquellen werden verschiedene Werkzeuge und Techniken vorgestellt, mit denen sich diese Quellen auf möglichst systematische und planvolle Weise finden lassen. Behandelt werden nicht nur physiotherapiewissenschaftliche Datenbanken, sondern auch Suchtaktiken und Auswahlkriterien.

Ergebnisse: Je nach Forschungsfrage und Projektstand stehen Autoren zahlreiche Recherchemittel und -wege zur Verfügung. Ihr Einsatz und ihre Wahl hängen vom Einzelfall ab.

Schlussfolgerung: Um den Möglichkeiten und den Ansprüchen der wissenschaftlichen Literatursuche gerecht zu werden, kann es sinnvoll sein, die eigene Informationskompetenz mithilfe von Rechercheratgebern und Schulungen zu stärken.
Surfactant Administration through Laryngeal Mask Airway: A Randomized Controlled Study in Rabbits
Authors: Mariani Gonzalo , Virasoro María , Burgos Sebastián , Labanca María , Otero Pablo , Bernardo Cristian
Published: December 2017

Background Minimally invasive techniques for surfactant administration for infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) of moderate severity have been proposed. The laryngeal mask airway (LMA) helps in securing the airway without the need of laryngoscopy, but still requires the use of positive pressure ventilation (PPV) to flush surfactant into the lungs.

Objective This article compares the effectiveness of two techniques for LMA surfactant administration, instillation into the LMA lumen followed by PPV versus direct laryngeal instillation through a preinserted feeding tube inside the LMA during spontaneous respirations.

Study Design This is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 18 rabbits with acquired respiratory distress after lung lavage. After surfactant was given, the rabbits remained on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Gas exchange parameters were assessed at baseline and at 30 minutes and lung parenchyma pathology features were analyzed.

Results Time required for surfactant administration, oxygenation improvement, and histopathologic findings did not differ between groups. The new technique decreased the need of PPV (p < 0.05).

Conclusion In this animal model, surfactant administration through a preinserted feeding tube within the LMA lumen is safe and effective while providing the benefits of a minimally invasive approach. This technique reduces the need of PPV and may prevent its potential risks.
Elektromechanisch- und roboterassistiertes Training der oberen Extremität
Authors: Mehrholz Jan , Elsner Bernhard , Thomas Simone
Published: December 2017

In der Folge eines Schlaganfalls leidet die Mehrzahl der Patienten an einer Armparese. Der Bedarf an Neurorehabilitation ist groß.
Elektromechanisch- und roboterassistierte Geräte können hier unterstützend zum Einsatz kommen. Auf welchem Stand sind die Ansätze heute und
was ist für die nahe Zukunft zu erwarten?
Spezifische Roboteransätze für Kinder
Authors: Graser Judith
Published: December 2017

„Können wir jetzt etwas anderes machen?“ Diesen Satz kennt jede Person, die therapeutisch mit Kindern arbeitet. Nach ein paar Wiederholungen
einer Aufgabe oder Übung wird es langweilig. Dabei zeigen gerade repetitive, intensive und aufgabenorientierte Therapiemethoden die größten
Erfolge in der Neurorehabilitation.
Therapie mit elektromechanisch-assistierten Geräten: Tipps und Tricks für die praktische Umsetzung
Authors: Thomas Simone , Mehrholz Jan
Published: December 2017

Die roboterassistierte Gangtherapie sowie die roboterassistierte Armtherapie haben sich zu einem festen Bestandteil der neurologischen
Rehabilitation etabliert. Sie sind für die Therapeuten entlastende und für Patienten sichere Therapieformen. Darüber hinaus handelt es sich
um effektive Methoden in der Physiotherapie, um das Gehen nach einem Schlaganfall wiederzuerlernen und die Armfunktionen zu verbessern. Das
Erfolgsrezept dafür liegt vermutlich in der hohen Wiederholungszahl und der intensiven und aktiven physischen Beanspruchung des
Patienten.