bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limiting relaxation times from Markov state models
Authors: Kells Adam , Annibale Alessia , Rosta Edina
Published: June 2018

Markov state models (MSMs) are more and more widely used in the analysis of molecular simulations to incorporate multiple trajectories together and obtain more accurate time scale information of the slowest processes in the system. Typically, however, multiple lagtimes are used and analyzed as input parameters, yet convergence with respect to the choice of lagtime is not always possible. Here, we present a simple method for calculating the slowest relaxation time (RT) of the system in the limit of very long lagtimes. Our approach relies on the fact that the second eigenvector’s autocorrelation function of the propagator will be approximately single exponential at long lagtimes. This allows us to obtain a simple equation for the behavior of the MSM’s relaxation time as a function of the lagtime with only two free parameters, one of these being the RT of the system. We demonstrate that the second parameter is a useful indicator of how Markovian a selected variable is for building the MSM. Fitting this function to data gives a limiting value for the optimal variational RT. Testing this on analytic and molecular dynamics data for Ala5 and umbrella sampling-biased ion channel simulations shows that the function accurately describes the behavior of the RT and furthermore that this RT can improve noticeably the value calculated at the longest accessible lagtime. We compare our RT limit to the hidden Markov model (HMM) approach that typically finds RTs of comparable values. However, HMMs cannot be used in conjunction with biased simulation data, requiring more complex algorithms to construct than MSMs, and the derived RTs are not variational, leading to ambiguity in the choice of lagtime at which to build the HMM.
Polarimetric microscopy for optical control and high precision measurement of valley polarization
Authors: Yoo SeokJae , Park Q-Han
Published: June 2018

Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDCs) have two degenerate energy valleys in their Brillouin zone, and these two separate valleys can be used as an information carrier in optoelectronic devices. Circularly polarized optical pumping can selectively populate a single valley, resulting in direct band transitions at the populated valley and associated circularly polarized photoluminescence (PL) emission. However, the birefringence and linear dichroism in optical microscopes can not only distort the circular polarization states of optical pumping but also contaminate experimentally derived information about the polarization states of valley-polarized PL signals. To solve this problem, we suggest a polarimetric microscopy method that manipulates the valley population by optical pumping and measures the polarized PL emission of 2D TMDCs; pumping beam polarization can be precisely controlled by the polarization correction unit, and the original polarization state of the emitted PL signal can be recovered using the Mueller matrix inherent to the optical experimental setup. Using our method, errors when measuring the degree of circular polarization in PL signals can be reduced from 19% to 6%, enabling accurate estimation of exciton lifetimes. Our result offers an accurate and reliable way to process information in valley-based optoelectronic devices.
Evolution of filaments and associated magnetic fields produced by the Weibel Instability in two counterstreaming laser plasmas
Authors: Liu Hui-Ya , Dong Quan-Li , Ji Sheng-Zhe , Kang Ning , Zhou Shen-Lei , Sheng Zheng-Ming , Lin Zun-Qi , Zhang Jie
Published: June 2018

The evolution of filaments due to the Weibel Instability was studied through experiments of two asymmetric counterstreaming plasmas produced by nanosecond laser pulses with total energy more than 1 kJ. The magnetic field around filaments was measured by the Faraday rotation technique as tens of Tesla after an exponential growth at the rate of  0.148 ns−1, which was in good agreement with the calculated features of the Weibel Instability with experimental plasma properties. The temporal evolution of the separation distances between filaments was also recorded and fitted with two analytical models by Medvedev et al. [Astrophys. J. 618, L75–L78 (2005)] and Ruyer et al. [Phys. Plasmas 22, 032102 (2015)], respectively. While the magnetic field growth followed the quasi-linear theory of the Weibel Instability process in counterstreaming plasmas of non-relativity, the evolution of filaments through coalescence behaviors presented a nonlinear temporal increase in the filament widths.
Annealing induced photosensitivity modulation of zinc selenide thin film in the sub-band gap optical absorption region
Authors: Karim B. , Chottopadhyay P.
Published: June 2018

The photosensitivity of the chemical bath deposited zinc selenide (ZnSe) thin film of bandgap 2.8 eV air annealed at different temperatures has been studied under sub-band gap optical illuminations of photon energies 1.77, 1.91, and 2.07 eV, respectively. The study reveals significant and systematic changes in the photocurrent even when the photon energy is restricted well below the band gap energy of the material. In addition, the photocurrent decreases more or less exponentially with the annealing temperature, although the absorption coefficients of the annealed samples in the sub-band gap region are seen to be enhanced compared to the as-deposited sample. The XRD measurements show the cubic phase of ZnSe, accompanying additionally the orthorhombic ZnSeO3 crystallites in the deposited film. The study further reveals comparatively stronger crystalline improvement of the ZnSeO3 crystals than the cubic ZnSe crystals upon annealing. The observed photosensitivity of the film is compared to that of the cadmium sulphide film deposited by a chemical bath deposition technique and found to be sharply contrasting in behavior. We attribute the unusual photosensitivity of the ZnSe film to ZnSeO3 crystallites which act simultaneously as self generators and absorbers of photoelectrons in the ZnSe crystals, without effectively contributing to the overall photoconductivity of the material.
Lift forces on axial symmetry particles rotating in a linear shear flow of a rarefied gas
Authors: Wang Jun , Yu Song , Luo Shuang , Xia Guodong , Zong Luxiang
Published: June 2018

We theoretically investigate the lift forces (including shear lift and rotational lift) experienced by nonspherical convex particles rotating in a linear shear flow of a rarefied gas, based on the gas kinetic theory. In our model, the interactions between the gas molecules and the particle surface are assumed to be the Maxwell combined specular-diffuse scattering. By integrating the general expressions for several simple axisymmetric bodies, including spheres, cylinders, disks, and spheroids, the specific expressions for the lift forces acting on these bodies are obtained. The pitching effect of the nonspherical particles results in a transverse force for the shear lift, but there is no transverse force for the rotational lift. The expressions for the orientation-averaged shear lift forces are obtained under a uniform distribution of the particle orientation.
Electronic properties of ultra-thin YCrO3 films
Authors: Pal Banabir , Liu Xiaoran , Wen Fangdi , Kareev Mikhail , N'Diaye A. T. , Shafer P. , Arenholz E. , Chakhalian Jak
Published: June 2018

We report on the heteroepitaxial stabilization of YCrO3 ultra-thin films on LSAT (001) substrate. Using a combination of resonant X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and atomic multiplet cluster calculation, the electronic structure of YCrO3 thin film was investigated. Polarization dependent Cr L3,2 edge XAS measurements reveal the presence of x-ray linear dichroism spectrum uncharacteristic of a 3d3 electronic system in an octahedral crystal field. Atomic multiplet calculation demonstrates the critical importance of charge transfer energy, coulomb correlation strength, and hopping interaction in realizing this dichroism spectrum.
Perspective: Magnetoelectric switching in thin film multiferroic heterostructures
Authors: Meisenheimer Peter B. , Novakov Steve , Vu Nguyen M. , Heron John T.
Published: June 2018

Since the resurgence of multiferroics research, significant advancement has been made in the theoretical and experimental investigation of the electric field control of magnetization, magnetic anisotropy, magnetic phase, magnetic domains, and Curie temperature in multiferroic heterostructures. As a result of these advances, multiferroic heterostructures are on a trajectory to impact spintronics applications through the significantly reduced energy consumption per unit area for magnetization switching (1–500 μJ cm−2) when compared to that of current-driven magnetization switching (0.2–10 mJ cm−2). Considering this potential impact, it becomes necessary to understand magnetoelectric switching dynamics and characteristic switching times. The body of experimental work investigating magnetoelectric switching dynamics is rather limited, with the majority of room temperature converse magnetoelectric switching measurements reported having employed relatively long voltage pulses. Recently, however, the field has started to consider the kinetics of the switching path in multiferroic (and ferroelectric) switching. Excitingly, the results are challenging our understanding of switching processes while offering new opportunities to engineer the magnetoelectric effect. Considering the prospects of multiferroics for beyond-CMOS applications and the possible influence on operational speed, much remains to be understood regarding magnetoelectric switching kinetics and dynamics, particularly at reduced dimensions and under the influence of boundary effects resulting from strain, electrostatics, and orientation. In this article, we review magnetoelectric switching in multiferroic heterostructures for the electric field control of magnetism. We then offer perspectives moving toward the goal of low energy-delay spintronics for computational applications.
Anharmonic phonon decay in polycrystalline CdTe thin film
Authors: Li Xun , Liu Dexiong , Wang Deliang
Published: June 2018

The anharmonic decay of both the longitudinal optical phonon (LO) and its overtone (2LO) was found to decay asymmetrically into a transverse optical (TO) and a transverse acoustic (TA) phonon, both of which are at the L point along the Γ-L direction of the Brillouin zone. For the LO and its overtone 2LO, both the Raman shift and Raman linewidth were decreased/increased almost linearly with the temperature in the range of 78–523 K. This temperature-dependent phonon decay characteristics were induced by LO anharmonic decay to the TA phonon with an energy of only ∼29 cm−1. A TA phonon mode with such low energy is readily excited, and its phonon density is almost linearly increased with increased temperature. Strong multi-phonon scatterings, which involved the LO, the surface optical mode, and the TO, were funded to contribute to the anharmonic decay of the 1LO, especially at temperature higher than room temperature.
Robust high-dynamic-range vector magnetometry with nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond
Authors: Clevenson Hannah , Pham Linh M. , Teale Carson , Johnson Kerry , Englund Dirk , Braje Danielle
Published: June 2018

We demonstrate a robust, scale-factor-free vector magnetometer, which uses a closed-loop frequency-locking scheme to simultaneously track Zeeman-split resonance pairs of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond. This technique offers a three-orders-of-magnitude increase in dynamic range compared to open-loop methodologies; is robust against fluctuations in temperature, resonance linewidth, and contrast; and allows for simultaneous interrogation of multiple transition frequencies. By directly detecting the resonance frequencies of NV centers oriented along each of the diamond's four tetrahedral crystallographic axes, we perform full vector reconstruction of an applied magnetic field.
Cross-verification of the global gyrokinetic codes GENE and XGC
Authors: Merlo G. , Dominski J. , Bhattacharjee A. , Chang C. S. , Jenko F. , Ku S. , Lanti E. , Parker S.
Published: June 2018

A detailed cross-verification between two global gyrokinetic codes, the core continuum code GENE and the edge particle-in-cell code XGC, for the linear and nonlinear simulations of ion-temperature-gradient modes is carried out. With the recent developments in the edge gyrokinetics, it may be feasible someday to describe the whole tokamak plasma on turbulence timescales using a coupled gyrokinetic simulation model. Before pursuing this, the core code (GENE) and the edge code (XGC) must be carefully benchmarked with each other. The present verification provides a solid basis for future code coupling research. Also included in the benchmarking is the global particle-in-cell code ORB5, to raise the confidence in the quality of the obtained results. An excellent agreement between all three codes is obtained. Furthermore, in order to facilitate a benchmark framework for other codes, we make a specific effort to provide all the relevant input parameters and precise details for each code.
Large eddy simulation of particle agglomeration with shear breakup in turbulent channel flow
Authors: Njobuenwu Derrick O. , Fairweather Michael
Published: June 2018

A systematic technique is developed for studying particle dynamics as induced by a turbulent liquid flow, in which transport, agglomeration, and breakup are considered. An Eulerian description of the carrier phase obtained using large eddy simulation is adopted and fully coupled to a Lagrangian definition of the particle phase using a pointwise discrete particle simulation. An efficient hard-sphere interaction model with deterministic collision detection enhanced with an energy-balance agglomeration model was implemented in an existing computational fluid dynamic code for turbulent multiphase flow. The breakup model adopted allows instantaneous breakup to occur once the transmitted hydrodynamic stress within an agglomerate exceeds a critical value, characterised by a fractal dimension and the size of the agglomerate. The results from the developed technique support the conclusion that the local turbulence kinetic energy, its dissipation rate, and the agglomerate fractal dimension control the kinetics of the agglomeration and de-agglomeration processes, and as well as defining with time the morphology of the particles and their resultant transport. Overall, the results are credible and consistent with the expected physical behavior and with known theories.
Communication: Is directed percolation in colloid-polymer mixtures linked to dynamic arrest?
Authors: Richard David , Royall C. Patrick , Speck Thomas
Published: June 2018

Using computer simulations, we study the dynamic arrest in a schematic model of colloid-polymer mixtures combining short-ranged attractions with long-ranged repulsions. The arrested gel is a dilute rigid network of colloidal particles bonded due to the strong attractions. Without repulsions, the gel forms at the spinodal through arrested phase separation. In the ergodic suspension at sufficiently high densities, colloidal clusters form temporary networks that percolate space. Recently [M. Kohl et al., Nat. Commun. 7, 11817 (2016)], it has been proposed that the transition of these networks to directed percolation (DP) coincides with the onset of the dynamic arrest, thus linking structure to dynamics. Here, we evaluate for various screening lengths the underlying gas-liquid binodal and the percolation transitions. We find that DP shifts the continuous percolation line to larger densities, but even beyond this line the suspension remains ergodic. Only when approaching the spinodal does dynamic arrest occur. Competing repulsions thus do not modify the qualitative scenario for non-equilibrium gelation, although the structure of the emerging percolating network shows some differences.
Experimental demonstration of a flexible metamembrane
Authors: Pelzman Charles , Cho Sang-Yeon
Published: June 2018

In this letter, we present the experimental demonstration of the modification of the far-field spectral response of a metamembrane using mechanical deformation. The demonstrated metamembrane is a two-dimensional (2-D) metamaterial, created by a free-standing monolayer of periodically coupled artificial atoms. The optical properties of this 2-D metamaterial can be controlled by intentionally applied structural deformation. This experimental demonstration is the first step for developing 2-D artificial materials for sensing and chip-scale spectral analysis applications.
Laser wakefield acceleration facilitates high-energy gamma ray generation with spot sizes at the microscale
Authors: Leahy Rhys
Published: June 2018

Through laser wakefield acceleration, a researcher team created high energy gamma rays with focal spot sizes of 200 micrometers or smaller. The method offers CT imaging systems a gamma ray source capable of much higher resolutions.
Sparse bursts optimize information transmission in a multiplexed neural code
Authors: Naud Richard , Sprekeler Henning
Published: June 2018

Significance

Understanding the neural code is to attribute proper meaning to temporal sequences of action potentials. We report a simple neural code based on distinguishing single spikes from spikes in close succession, commonly called “bursts.” By separating these two types of responses, we show that ensembles of neurons can communicate rapidly changing and graded information from two sources simultaneously and with minimal cross-talk. Second, we show that this multiplexing can optimize the information transferred per action potential when bursts are relatively rare. Finally, we show that neurons can demultiplex these two streams of information. We propose that this multiplexing may be particularly important in hierarchical communication where bottom–up and top–down information must be distinguished.
Constructicography at work
Authors: Lyngfelt Benjamin , Bäckström Linnéa , Borin Lars , Ehrlemark Anna , Rydstedt Rudolf
Published: June 2018

This chapter addresses central topics in constructicography from the viewpoint of the Swedish constructicon project (SweCcn), focusing on practical constructicon development. The full process of construction description is described and discussed, from selection via corpus analysis to finished constructicon entry and beyond, towards structuring the set of entries into a network. Particular attention is given to the description format and the treatment of constructional variation. A main theme in the chapter is the interdependence and alignment of SweCcn and related resources, on the one hand in the local context, notably the infrastructure of Språkbanken (the Swedish language bank), and on the other hand with respect to corresponding resources for other languages. Of key concern is the relation to FrameNet, both the Swedish and other framenets, and a major section is devoted to conditions for linking constructions and frames.
A constructicon for Russian
Authors: Janda Laura A. , Lyashevskaya Olga , Nesset Tore , Rakhilina Ekaterina , Tyers Francis M.
Published: June 2018

The Russian Constructicon project currently prioritizes multi-word constructions that are not represented in dictionaries and that are especially useful for learners of Russian. The immediate goal is to identify constructions and determine the semantic constraints on their slots. The Russian Constructicon is being built in parallel with the Swedish Constructicon and will ultimately model the entire Russian language in terms of constructions at all levels from morpheme to discourse. The contents of the Russian Constructicon will serve learners of the language, linguists researching both language-internal and typological phenomena, and will also serve language technology applications such as spell checkers and automated readability assessment tools.
Linguistics vs. language technology in constructicon building and use
Authors: Borin Lars , Dannélls Dana , Grūzītis Normunds
Published: June 2018

In this chapter, we describe the close interaction of linguists and language technologists in the Swedish constructicon project. This kind of collaboration is not so common today, because of the way that language technology has developed in recent decades, but in our case the collaboration has been very successful, and constituted a genuine instance of cross-fertilization, where an evolving language technology infrastructure and a computational lexical macroresource described in the chapter has formed an integral part of the Swedish constructicon development environment, while at the same time the structured linguistic knowledge described in the constructicon has informed the language technology making up the infrastructure.
Velar allomorphy in Ibero-Romance
Authors: O'Neill Paul
Published: June 2018

This article analyses the historical development of velar allomorphy in the Ibero-Romance verb and argues that the recognition
of (i) autonomous morphological structures, or morphomes (Aronoff, 1994), and (ii)
variation as to the morphological parsing of velar allomorphy can facilitate more convincing explanations of the evolution,
spread and change of this allomorphy and the class of velar verbs which exhibit it. With regards morphomes, this study
presents data, which prompts the conclusion that the allomorphy in these cells tends not only to converge upon one particular
phonological form (Maiden, 2004), but also upon a particular morphological
structure or type. Regarding the morphological parsing of the allomorphy, it is argued that it can correspond to root
allomorphy or desinential allomorphy.
Stylistic fronting in Old Spanish texts
Authors: Elvira Javier
Published: June 2018

This paper provides new evidence on Stylistic Fronting in Old Spanish. The data show significant differences in the
distribution and restrictions of Stylistic Fronting in main and subordinate clauses. They also provide new evidence about the
syntagmatic split of phrases occurring simultaneously in many cases of Stylistic Fronting. I also address the question of
whether this kind of fronting may be viewed as an instance of the emphatic movement or focus. Looking at textual evidence, the
focal or expressive character of these expressions is not always easy to prove. These data lead to the conclusion that
Stylistic Fronting should be viewed as a by-product or an epiphenomenon derived from multiple causes and motivations.
Studying Ibero-Romance before 1200
Authors: Wright Roger
Published: June 2018

Those who wish to study the semantic, morphological or syntactic development of some aspect of Old Spanish need to include in
their investigations data from before 1200. The history of Latin in the Iberian Peninsula, before the so-called
“Twelfth-century Renaissance”, was similar to that of any other literate living language; most texts (including legal texts)
were in the written mode of the native language, despite aiming for traditional orthography, and thus they can be used, with
care, as material for the study of the spoken language of their time.
A Population-Based Examination of Trends and Disparities in Medication Treatment for Opioid use Disorders among Medicaid Enrollees
Authors: Stein Bradley D. , Dick Andrew W. , Sorbero Mark , Gordon Adam J. , Burns Rachel M. , Leslie Douglas L. , Pacula Rosalie Liccardo
Published: June 2018

Background: Medication treatment (MT) with methadone and buprenorphine are effective treatments for opioid use disorders, but little information is available regarding the extent to which buprenorphine's approval resulted in more individuals receiving MT nor to what extent receipt of such treatment was equitable across communities. Methods: To examine changes in MT utilization and the association between MT utilization and county-level indicators of poverty, race/ethnicity, and urbanicity, we used Medicaid claims of non-dually eligible Medicaid enrollees aged 18–64 from 14 states for 2002–2009. We generated county-level aggregate counts of MT (methadone, buprenorphine, and any MT) by year ( N = 7760 county-years). We estimated count data models to identify associations between MT and county characteristics, including levels of poverty and racial/ethnic concentration. Results: The number of Medicaid enrollees receiving MT increased 62% from 2002 to 2009. The number of enrollees receiving methadone increased 20%, with the remaining increase resulting from buprenorphine. Urban county residents were significantly more likely to receive MT in both 2002 and 2009 than rural county residents. However, buprenorphine substantially increased MT in rural counties from 2002 to 2009. Receipt of MT increased at a much higher rate for residents of counties with lower poverty rates and lower concentrations of black and Hispanic individuals than for residents of counties without those characteristics. Conclusions: The increase in Medicaid enrollees receiving MT in the years following buprenorphine's approval is encouraging. However, it is concerning that MT trends varied so dramatically by characteristics of the county population and that increases in utilization were substantially lower in counties with populations that historically have been disadvantaged with respect to health care access and quality. Concerted efforts are needed to ensure that MT benefits are equitably distributed across society and reach disadvantaged individuals who may be at higher risk of experiencing opioid use disorders.
p190 RhoGAP promotes contact inhibition in epithelial cells by repressing YAP activity
Authors: Frank Scott R. , Köllmann Clemens P. , Luong Phi , Galli Giorgio G. , Zou Lihua , Bernards André , Getz Gad , Calogero Raffaele A. , Frödin Morten , Hansen Steen H.
Published: June 2018

ARHGAP35 encoding p190A RhoGAP is a cancer-associated gene with a mutation spectrum suggestive of a tumor-suppressor function. In this study, we demonstrate that loss of heterozygosity for ARHGAP35 occurs in human tumors. We sought to identify tumor-suppressor capacities for p190A RhoGAP (p190A) and its paralog p190B in epithelial cells. We reveal an essential role for p190A and p190B to promote contact inhibition of cell proliferation (CIP), a function that relies on RhoGAP activity. Unbiased mRNA sequencing analyses establish that p190A and p190B modulate expression of genes associated with the Hippo pathway. Accordingly, we determine that p190A and p190B induce CIP by repressing YAP–TEAD-regulated gene transcription through activation of LATS kinases and inhibition of the Rho–ROCK pathway. Finally, we demonstrate that loss of a single p190 paralog is sufficient to elicit nuclear translocation of YAP and perturb CIP in epithelial cells cultured in Matrigel. Collectively, our data reveal a novel mechanism consistent with a tumor-suppressor function for ARHGAP35.
Evaluation of a Train-the-Trainer Program to Build Capacity for Training Tobacco Treatment Specialists
Authors: Jolicoeur Denise , Cranos Caroline L , Frisard Christine , Pbert Lori
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Tobacco-treatment specialists (TTSs) and high-quality TTS training programs are needed to improve access to evidence-based tobacco-dependence treatment. To meet this demand, the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Medical School developed the Train-the-Trainer in Tobacco Treatment (T4) program to build a cadre of trainers to deliver the accredited UMass TTS training programs. This paper reports on the feasibility and quality of TTS trainings led by Certified UMass TTS Trainers (Trainer-led) compared with trainings led by UMass staff (On-site).

Methods

Data were collected between September 2014 and June 2017. Feasibility included the number of Trainers, Trainer-led programs, and participants. Quality compared participant exam results and evaluations of the two training program types.

Results

Fifty-three Trainers were certified during 2014–2017, and conducted 26 TTS trainings with 351 participants. There were no significant differences in participant mean exam scores [On-site = 86.33 (SD = 7.83); Trainer-led = 86.15 (SD = 8.47)], and a similar percentage of participants obtained a passing score on the exam (On-site 94.4%, Trainer-led 94.0%). There were no significant differences in increased self-efficacy in delivering effective tobacco-treatment services [On-site = 2.92, Trainer-led = 2.93; p = .52 (3-point Likert scale, 1 = not at all, 3 = a great deal)] or in overall satisfaction with the training [On-site = 3.84; Trainer-led = 3.81; p = .072 (4-point Likert scale, 1 = very dissatisfied, 4 = very satisfied)].

Conclusions

The Trainer-led model expanded the number of UMass-trained TTSs with equivalent participant knowledge and perceived improvement in ability to deliver effective tobacco-dependence treatment compared with the gold-standard training model. It offers a potentially more accessible option for training TTSs compared with the On-site model.

Implications

Train-the-Trainer in Tobacco Treatment (T4) has increased the capacity to deliver high-quality training to healthcare providers who might not otherwise have access to an accredited TTS training program. Certified Trainers effectively identified potential participants and delivered training that was equivalent in quality to the standard UMass TTS Core Training program. There were no significant differences between the training models in two critical measures: (1) participant exam scores and (2) participants’ rating of improvement in their ability to deliver effective tobacco-dependence treatment. Organizations can now choose from two equally effective models for delivering TTS training based on their unique needs and training populations.
Labor and Capital Dynamics under Financing Frictions*
Authors: Michaels Ryan , Beau Page T , Whited Toni M
Published: June 2018

We assemble a new, quarterly panel dataset that links firms’ investment and financing to their employment and wages. In the data, wages and leverage are negatively related, both cross-sectionally and within firms. This pattern contradicts models in which firms insure workers against unemployment risk. We reconcile this fact with a model that integrates factor adjustment frictions and wage bargaining with costly external financing. In the model, the probability of default rises with debt. Because default incurs deadweight costs, the expected surplus over which firms and workers bargain falls, thus depressing wages. We show that raising financing costs reduces employment and wages, in line with recent reduced-form evidence.
ERα36 gene silencing promotes tau protein phosphorylation, inhibits cell proliferation, and induces apoptosis in human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells
Authors: Wang Hong‐Bin , Li Tao , Ma Dong‐Zhou , Zhi Hua
Published: June 2018

Neuroblastoma is the most common cancer in infants and the third most common cancer in children after leukemia and brain cancer. The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of estrogen receptor (ER)‐a36 gene silencing on tau protein phosphorylation, cell proliferation, and cell apoptosis in human neuroblastoma SHSY5Y cells. SH‐SY5Y cells were treated with estrogen or left untreated, to investigate the effects of estrogen stimulationon ERα36 and the ERK/protein B kinase (AKT) signaling pathway. ERα36 mRNA expressions were detected by quantitative RT‐PCR. A phosphatase kit was used to test protein phosphatase (PP)‐2A activity before and after treatment. Western blot analysis was conducted to detect protein expression of ERα36; tau protein; phosphorylated‐ tau (p‐tau) at site Thr231 [p‐tau (Thr231)]; glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3β and its specificity sites (Tyr216 and Ser9); Cyclin Dl; proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA); B‐cell lymphoma (Bcl)‐2; and Bcl‐2‐associated X protein (Bax). A cell‐counting kit (CCK)‐8 assay was used to determine cell viability. Cell apoptosis and rate of tumor growth and volume were determined by Annexin V‐FITC/PI staining and a xenotransplanted tumor model in nude mice. Results show that without estrogen stimulation, ERα36 was inactivated. When stimulated by estrogen, expression of ERα36, PP2A, p‐GSK3β (Ser9)/total protein (t)‐GSK3β, Cyclin Dl, PCNA, and Bcl‐2 were up‐regulated, and p‐GSK3β (Tyr216)/ t‐GSK3β expression was down‐regulated, as was p‐tau (Thr231) and Bax expression. The expression of p‐ERK/ERK, p‐AKT/AKT, p‐methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)/MEK, and p‐mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/mTOR expression was up‐regulated, suggesting that the ERK/AKT signaling pathway is activated. Cell proliferation was also accelerated, whereas apoptosis was inhibited with stimulation by estrogen. However, we found that the effects of silencing ERα36 on the expression of related intracellular factors had no association with estrogen. Our study demonstrates that ERα36 gene silencing can inhibit the activation of the ERK/AKT signaling pathway, increase tau protein phosphorylation, decrease cell vitality and tumorigenicity, and promote apoptosis of human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells.—Wang,H.‐B., Li, T.,Ma, D.‐Z.,Zhi, H. ERa36 gene silencing promotes tau protein phosphorylation, inhibits cell proliferation, and induces apoptosis in human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells. FASEB J. 32, 6456‐6468 (2018). www.fasebj.org
DNA methylation of SSPN is linked to adipose tissue distribution and glucose metabolism
Authors: Keller Maria , Klös Matthias , Rohde Kerstin , Krüger Jacqueline , Kurze Tabea , Dietrich Arne , Schön Michael R. , Gärtner Daniel , Lohmann Tobias , Dreßler Miriam , Stumvoll Michael , Blüher Matthias , Kovacs Peter , Böttcher Yvonne
Published: June 2018

DNA methylation is a crucial epigenetic mechanism in obesity and fat distribution. We explored the Sarcospan (SSPN) gene locus by using genome‐wide data sets comprising methylation and expression data, pyro‐sequencing analysis in the promoter region, and genetic analysis of an SNP variant rs718314, which was previously reported to associate with waist‐to‐hip ratio. We found that DNA methylation influences several clinical variables related to fat distribution and glucose metabolism, while SSPN mRNA levels showed directionally opposite effects on these traits. Complete DNA methylation of the SSPN promoter construct suppressed the gene expression of firefly luciferase in MCF7 cells. Moreover, rs718314 was associated with waist and with DNA methylation at CpG sites. Our data strongly support the role of the SSPN locus in body fat composition and glucose homeostasis, and suggest that this is most likely the result of changes in DNA methylation of SSPN in adipose tissue.—Keller, M., Klös, M., Rohde, K., Krüger, J., Kurze, T., Dietrich, A., Schön, M. R., Gärtner, D., Lohmann, T., Dreßler, M., Stumvoll, M., Blüher, M., Kovacs, P., Böttcher, Y. DNA methylation of SSPN is linked to adipose tissue distribution and glucose metabolism. FASEB J. 32, 6898–6910 (2018). www.fasebj.org
Exosomes derived from high‐glucose‐stimulated Schwann cells promote development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Jia Longfei , Chopp Michael , Wang Lei , Lu Xuerong , Szalad Alexandra , Zhang Zheng Gang
Published: June 2018

Schwann cells actively interact with axons of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. Exosomes mediate intercellular communication by transferring their biomaterials, including microRNAs (miRs) into recipient cells. We hypothesized that exosomes derived from Schwann cells stimulated by high glucose (HG) exosomes accelerate development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy and that exosomal cargo miRs contribute to this process. We found that HG exosomes contained high levels of miR‐28, ‐31a, and ‐130a compared to exosomes derived from non‐HG‐stimulated Schwann cells. In vitro, treatment of distal axons with HG exosomes resulted in reduction of axonal growth, which was associated with elevation of miR‐28, ‐31a, and ‐130a and reduction of their target proteins of DNA methyltransferase‐3α, NUMB (an endocytic adaptor protein), synaptosome associated protein 25, and growth‐associated protein‐43 in axons. In vivo, administration of HG exosomes to sciatic nerves of diabetic db/db mice at 7 wk of age promoted occurrence of peripheral neuropathy characterized by impairment of nerve conduction velocity and induction of mechanic and thermal hypoesthesia, which was associated with substantial decreases in intra‐epidermal nerve fibers. Our findings demonstrate a functional role of exosomes derived from HG‐stimulated Schwann cells in mediating development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.—Jia, L., Chopp, M., Wang, L., Lu, X., Szalad, A., Zhang, Z. G. Exosomes derived from high‐glucose‐stimulated Schwann cells promote development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. FASEB J. 32, 6911–6922 (2018). www.fasebj.org
Treatment of Incomplete Jones Fracture with Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS): Second Report
Authors: Nagase Tsuyoshi , Tomohiko Tateishi
Published: June 2018

Objective:

The incidence of fifth metatarsal stress fracture (so-called Jones fracture) is high in soccer players, and it is higher in Japanese than in Europeans. Aiming to prevent this disease, “Jones fracture screening” was performed with a survey of its frequency and an educational activity. At this meeting last year, we reported 5 patients with incomplete fracture that was discovered early and treated using LIPUS. Herein, we report the course of incomplete fracture in 14 feet from 13 patients, including the previously reported patients.

Subjects and Methods:

The subjects were one junior high school student (1 foot), 6 senior high school students (7 feet), and 6 university students (6 feet) who were diagnosed with incomplete fracture by radiography. Nine cases (8 patients) were discovered during the screening, and 5 patients were referred to our hospital by trainers. Each patient received conservative treatment while continuing practice and concomitant treatment with LIPUS was performed appropriately.

Results:

Bone union was achieved in 7 feet (7 patients), the condition progressed to complete fracture in 2 feet (2 patients), and 5 feet (4 patients) are currently being followed. Progression to complete fracture in the 2 feet occurred after discontinuation of treatment with LIPUS.

Discussion:

Early treatment of incomplete Jones fracture with LIPUS may achieve healing without suspending practice. Based on the findings of the 2 feet (2 patients) in which the condition progressed to complete fracture, the risk of progression to complete fracture may be low in the presence of treatment with LIPUS. We expect approval of the indication of LIPUS for the treatment of stress fracture.
Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS) for the Treatment of Non-ossifying Fibroma in the Long Bones of the Lower Extremity
Authors: Muramatsu Keiichi , Iwanaga Ryuta , Taguchi Toshiko
Published: June 2018

Objective:

Non-ossifying fibroma (NOF) usually occurs in the second decade of life. Patients with lower extremity lesions are at risk for developing pathologic fractures. The etiology is thought to be faulty ossification rather than true neoplasm. LIPUS promotes bone healing in fractures and might be able to be applied to this rare condition. To our knowledge, however, there have been no reports on this attempt. We experienced 2 cases with large non-ossifying fibromas treated by LIPUS and here present their clinical outcomes.

Cases and Results:

12 year-old (case 1) and 13 year-old (case 2) boys had NOF in the distal femur and the proximal tibia. Because NOF occupied the large area of the long bones, we attempted to use LIPUS in both cases. In case 1, NOF gradually disappeared at 2 years after LIPUS treatment. In case 2, NOF was acutely healed after minor fracture of the lesion and spontaneously disappeared.

Discussion:

Non-ossifying fibroma tend to regress as the skeleton matures. LIPUS might stimulate bone ossification and shorten the duration of NOF healing. Minor fracture or non-invasive drilling will help osteogenesis and NOF healing.
Clinical Experience of Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS) in Scaphoid Fracture
Authors: Iwasaki Hiroki , Uesato Ryoko , Ishibashi Yasuyuki
Published: June 2018

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical results of scaphoid fracture.

Materials and Methods:

The subjects were 13 patients (12 males, 1 female) with scaphoid fracture who underwent surgical (10 patients) or conservative (3 patients) therapy in our hospital from 2014 to 2017. Four patients (postoperative 3 and conservative 1) used low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS), and 9 patients (postoperative 7 and conservative 2) did not. We divided the patients into 2 groups: the LIPUS group (L group) and the non LIPUS (non L group). We evaluated the L group by Herbert classification, and both groups by the time to bone union and the time to start of therapy from injury. A Mann–Whitney test was used to analyze the time to start of therapy from injury between the L and non L groups.

Results:

Herbert classification in the L group was one each of types A, B, C, and D. Bone union had been achieved in all at the last consultation. The time to bone union in the 4 L group were 3, 6, 7 and 8 months. Patients in the non L group formed union by 3–4 months after start of therapy. The average time to start of therapy from injury was 3.5 months (L group) and 2.0 months (non L group), which was not statistically significantly different.

Discussion:

One case did not present until 12 months after injury, and this influenced our statistical results. The results suggest that we can expect adaptation of LIPUS in an increasing number of cases.
Dementia May Reduce the Effectiveness of Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS) Following Intramedullary Fixation for Trochanteric Fracture of the Femur
Authors: Watanabe Mitsunobu
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

Femoral trochanteric fracture often occurs in elderly females with bone fragility, and may accompany the complication of dementia, such as Alzheimer disease. In addition, comminuted fracture and unstable fracture are also confirmed in many cases, but low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is effective in promoting callus formation after osteosynthesis. However, there is a concern that LIPUS may not be effective when dementia develops as a concomitant complication in patients with femoral trochanteric fracture. In this study, we examined the effects of LIPUS to promote callus formation in subjects with and without decreased cognitive function.

Subjects and Methods:

The inclusion criteria included elderly females who underwent reduction with the use of intramedullary nails of the same type, began to receive load training with no limitation on the day following the surgery, and were followed from surgery to convalescent rehabilitation at our hospital. The exclusion criteria included those who received drugs to increase bone quantity, such as osteoporosis drugs (except for alfacalcidol) and AChEIs, routine steroid administration, or artificial dialysis. The subjects were divided into the decreased cognitive function group with HDS-R of 20 points or less and the non-decreased cognitive function group with 21 points or more. These groups were further divided into the LIPUS treated group and the non-treated group, respectively to compare the appearance of callus confirmed by plain X-ray examination.

Results:

In the non-decreased cognitive function group, callus formation was significantly promoted by LIPUS, but LIPUS showed no effect in the decreased cognitive function group.

Discussions:

Patients with dementia, such as Alzheimer disease, exhibit decreased parasympathetic nerve function and decreased bone mass caused by retroplasia of the hypothalamus, as well as protracted synostosis in hip fracture due to dementia. For femoral trochanteric fracture with the complication of decreased cognitive function, concomitant use of LIPUS and AChEIs, which inhibit the aggravation of dementia, may be effective.
Improving Patient Compliance with Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS) Treatment (Second Report)
Authors: Oe Keisuke , Fukui Tomoaki , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: June 2018

Objective:

There are many reports that low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) promotes fracture healing. However, to obtain sufficient therapeutic effect, appropriate use of LIPUS is necessary and patient compliance is very important for that. We reported at this meeting in 2014 about explanation for patients with leaflets, aiming at improvement of compliance. A new model on which calendar function was installed and the implementation rate (actual irradiation days/LIPUS borrowed days) could be clearly indicated has been available since February 2016. In this study, we investigated if the use of the leaflet is meaningful for improving compliance with this new model.

Materials and Methods:

The subjects were 30 patients who underwent LIPUS at our hospital from April 2016 to March 2017 and were followed up for more than 3 months. The subjects consisted of 15 males and 15 females and the average age was 47.4 years (10–78 years) old. We examined compliance both in the group of 11 cases using the new model with explanatory leaflets and in the group of 19 cases using the new model without leaflet explanation.

Results:

The average compliance rate of all patients was 83.2% (37.6%–100%). The average rate was 88.8% in the group with explanatory leaflet and 79.9% in the group without the leaflet (P = 0.11).

Discussion:

Pounder et al reported that the implementation rate was significantly improved by using the new model, indicating the usefulness of the new device. The result of this study suggested that further improvement of compliance could be expected by using the new model and explanatory leaflets.
Effect of Maternal Age on the Risk of Preterm Birth: A Large Cohort Study
Authors: Fuchs Florent , Monet Barbara , Ducruet Thierry , Chaillet Nils , Audibert Francois
Published: June 2018

(Abstracted from PLoS ONE 2018;13:e0191002)

As maternal age at pregnancy continues to increase worldwide, researchers have become more interested in outcomes of pregnancy in women of advanced age. Although complications such as placenta previa, fetal growth restriction or fetal demise, gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and cesarean delivery are known to be more common in older pregnant women, the relationship between maternal age and preterm birth (PTB) is uncertain.
Maternal Body Mass Index and Use of Labor Neuraxial Analgesia
Authors: Butwick Alexander J. , Wong Cynthia A. , Guo Nan
Published: June 2018

What We Already Know about This Topic

What This Article Tells Us That Is New

Background

Neuraxial labor analgesia may benefit obese women by optimizing cardiorespiratory function and mitigating complications related to emergency general anesthesia. We hypothesized that obese women have a higher rate of neuraxial analgesia compared with nonobese parturients.

Methods

Using U.S. natality data, our cohort comprised 17,220,680 deliveries, which accounts for 61.5% of 28 million births in the United States between 2009 and 2015. We examined the relationships between body mass index class and neuraxial labor analgesia, adjusting for sociodemographic, antenatal, pregnancy, and peripartum factors.

Results

The study cohort comprised 17,220,680 women; 0.1% were underweight, 12.7% were normal body mass index, 37% were overweight, and 28.3%, 13.5%, and 8.4% were obesity class I, II, and III, respectively. Rates of neuraxial analgesia by body mass index class were as follows: underweight, 59.7% (9,030/15,128); normal body mass index, 68.1% (1,487,117/2,182,797); overweight, 70.3% (4,476,685/6,368,656); obesity class I, 71.8% (3,503,321/4,881,938); obesity class II, 73.4% (1,710,099/2,330,028); and obesity class III, 75.6% (1,089,668/1,442,133). Compared to women with normal body mass index, the likelihood of receiving neuraxial analgesia was slightly increased for overweight women (adjusted relative risk, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.02), obese class I (adjusted relative risk, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.04), obese class II (adjusted relative risk, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.05), and obese class III (adjusted relative risk, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.06).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the likelihood of receiving neuraxial analgesia is only marginally increased for morbidly obese women compared to women with normal body mass index.