bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Click Synthesis, Aggregation‐Induced Emission and Chirality, Circularly Polarized Luminescence, and Helical Self‐Assembly of a Leucine‐Containing Silole
Authors: Li Hongkun , Xue Shan , Su Huimin , Shen Bo , Cheng Zhihui , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Wong Kam Sing , Wu Hongkai , Li Bing Shi , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2016

By introducing chiral leucine pendants to silole scaffold, leucine‐containing silole (Silole‐Leu) is synthesized and it is endowed with not only aggregation‐induced emission and circular dichroism, but excellent chiral polarized luminescence as well. Silole–Leu also has the capacity to self‐assemble into nano/micro helical luminescent fibers and the dimension of the fibers can be tuned by adjusting the ratio and volume of mixed solvents for evaporation as revealed by atomic force microscope, scanning electron microscope, and fluorescence microscope. The characteristic helicity of microfibers is directly visualized for the first time by using fluorescence microscope.
The Flipped Experience for Chinese University Students Studying English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Doman Evelyn , Webb Marie
Published: August 2016

Many educators worldwide are aware that traditional teacher‐fronted instruction and lecture‐based learning often lead students to become passive in the classroom. In the language classroom, particularly in classrooms for English as a second or foreign language, the flipped model of education drives students to become more responsive and more engaged in lessons. Current literature on the flipped model suggests that providing more lecture‐based lessons outside of the classroom via video recordings and creating more student‐centered activities inside the classroom may help enhance students' attitudes and learner autonomy. By collecting data during a large‐scale experiment at the University of Macau, this study provides insight into learner attitudes in the areas of teaching orientation; use of technology; and social, cognitive, and learner presence. Findings show that students in the flipped sections had more positive attitudes to the language learning experience than students in the non‐flipped sections.
A Case Study: Reading Strategies Training Scheme in a Hong Kong Primary School
Authors: Lee Ho Cheung
Published: August 2016

This article describes a case study on a reading programme, named Reading Strategies Training Scheme (RSTS), for second language learning in a Hong Kong primary (elementary) school. The scheme, serving learners of English as a second language from Primary One to Six (ages 6–12), was developed by the school's English teaching team. As it was being implemented, the teachers noticed the effectiveness of teaching reading strategies explicitly and of the scheme's role in their professional growth. This article examines the impact of RSTS after its first year, discusses the significance of collaborative work among frontline educators, and gives suggestions as to how a skill‐oriented reading programme could be constructed in a teaching community.
Has Corpus‐Based Instruction Reached a Tipping Point? Practical Applications and Pointers for Teachers
Authors: Huang Li‐Shih
Published: August 2016

This article provides an easy introduction into corpus‐based instruction by explaining what the approach entails. It also presents key terms and discusses key theoretical concepts drawn from the literature; from these, practical applications and pointers are offered for those practitioners wishing to use corpus data or implement corpus‐based instruction in their classroom.
Deconstructing Social Class Identity and Teacher Privilege in the Second Language Classroom
Authors: Glodjo Tyler
Published: August 2016

Through a pedagogical lens, this literature review highlights how social class, as a primary analytical construct for understanding identity in English language learner instruction, interacts with teacher class identity while creating implications for teaching and learning. In the past two decades, race, class, and gender have been the foci in TESOL identity research, yet race and gender have often been privileged as primary constructs of analysis while class is relegated to tertiary status. The article reviews poststructuralist identity theories in linguistics/TESOL to analyze the concept of multiple subjectivities as dynamic, shifting, conflicting, and situated in particular sociohistorical contexts. Then, through a multidisciplinary approach, the author discusses teacher identity conceptualization and draws from TESOL research on race/racial privilege to illustrate ways in which teacher privilege may result from student positionality based on social class for English language learners in primary and secondary public schools. Concluding with implications for the field, the author suggests future avenues of research on social class in the second language classroom.
Students' Attitudes Toward Extensive Reading in the Japanese EFL Context
Authors: Mikami Akihiro
Published: August 2016

Although many studies state the benefits of extensive reading (ER) for language learning, this practice is not common in language classrooms. Because few studies have investigated the status of ER in second language classrooms, this study looks at past and current ER practice among Japanese students of English as a foreign language (EFL) and their motivation toward it. The researcher conducted a questionnaire survey using a mixed‐methods design with 141 university students in Japan. Quantitative analysis showed that participants had little past or current practice of ER, but many more participants felt like reading more English books than those who did not. Qualitative analysis indicated that their reasons for reading or not reading more English books fell into three attitudinal categories: negative (reasons for not reading), positive (reasons for reading), and ambivalent. Eight distinct negative reasons and six positive reasons were identified. Ambivalent reasons were not grouped, because each one was complex and unique. These results imply that the participants' motivation was not fixed or stable and that it was difficult for them to maintain positive motivation. Using students' responses to the survey, this study examines the educational implications for promoting English ER to help EFL teachers confront its unpopularity.
A New Method for Assessment of Performing Mechanical Works of Energetic Compounds by the Cylinder Test
Authors: Fotouhi‐Far Farshad , Bashiri Hadis , Hamadanian Masood , Keshavarz Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2016

A new method is introduced for assessment of performing mechanical works of energetic compounds by cylinder wall velocities of CHNOFCl energetic compounds on the basis of the cylinder test. Four suitable decomposition paths are used to evaluate the number of moles of gaseous detonation products per gram of explosive, the average molecular weight of these gases, and the heat of detonation in calories per gram by considering different decomposition products HF, HCl, CO, N2, H2O, H2, and CO2. For CHNO and fluoro energetic compounds, the predicted cylinder wall velocities of these compounds give more reliable results than one of the best available empirical methods. The predicted root mean square (rms) deviations of cylinder wall velocities of the new model for some chloro explosives at actual radial expansions 0.6 and 1.9 mm are 0.010 and 0.062 km·s–1, which show high reliability of the new method.
Invasion Depth Measured in Millimeters is a Predictor of Survival in Patients with Distal Bile Duct Cancer: Decision Tree Approach
Authors: Min Kyueng‐Whan , Kim Dong‐Hoon , Son Byoung Kwan , Kim Eun‐Kyung , Ahn Sang Bong , Kim Seong Hwan , Jo Yun Ju , Park Young Sook , Seo Jinwon , Oh Young Ha , Oh Sukjoong , Kim Ho Young , Kwon Mi Jung , Min Soo Kee , Park Hye‐Rim , Choe Ji‐Young , Jeon Jang Yong , Ha Hong Il , Lee Jung Woo
Published: August 2016

Background

AJCC staging system is unreliable for predicting survival in distal bile duct (DBD) cancer patients, due to inter‐observer variation. Measured depth of invasion (DOI) is suggested to be more accurate to predict patients’ clinical outcome in extra‐hepatic cholangiocarcinomas, but its significance in DBD cancer and cutoff values are still debatable. This study aimed to identify the optimal cutoff value of DOI in relation to prognosis in DBD cancer patients.

Methods

Data of 179 patients with DBD adenocarcinoma treated in three institutions were investigated. Under microscopic review, DOI was measured. The relationships between the clinicopathological parameters and the groups based on DOI (≤3; 3–10; >10 mm) were evaluated, and the survival times of each group based on DOI and T classification were compared.

Results

Deeply invading tumors exhibited a greater tendency toward the infiltrative type, high histological grade, AJCC stage, and pancreatic, duodenal, lymphovascular and perineural invasion. The measured DOI was significantly correlated with worse relapse‐free and overall survival (all p < 0.05). In multivariate analyses, the DOI remained as one of the prognostic factors (all p < 0.05), while T classification was not a significant prognostic factor. The new prognostic models (low, intermediate, and high risk) that applied DOI and nodal metastasis showed significant difference in recurrence and survival rate (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

On the basis of the proposed cutoff value, the DOI could be clear and meaningful, overcoming the vagueness of the T classification for predicting clinical outcomes in patients with DBD carcinoma.
High-level intra- and extra-cellular production of d-psicose 3-epimerase via a modified xylose-inducible expression system in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Chen Jingqi , Zhu Yueming , Fu Gang , Song Yafeng , Jin Zhaoxia , Sun Yuanxia , Zhang Dawei
Published: August 2016

d-Psicose 3-epimerase (DPEase) converts d-fructose into d-psicose which exists in nature in limited quantities and has key physiological functions. In this study, RDPE (DPEase from Ruminococcus sp. 5_1_39BFAA) was successfully constitutively expressed in Bacillus subtilis, which is the first report of its kind. Three sugar-inducible promoters were compared, and the xylose-inducible promoter PxylA was proved to be the most efficient for RDPE production. Based on the analysis of the inducer concentration and RDPE expression, we surmised that there was an extremely close correlation between the intracellular RDPE expression and xylose accumulation level. Subsequently, after the metabolic pathway of xylose was blocked by deletion of xylAB, the intra- and extra-cellular RDPE expression was significantly enhanced. Meanwhile, the optimal xylose induction concentration was reduced from 4.0 to 0.5 %. Eventually, the secretion level of RDPE reached 95 U/mL and 2.6 g/L in a 7.5-L fermentor with the fed-batch fermentation, which is the highest production of DPEase by a microbe to date.
Information Topics of Greatest Interest for Return of Genome Sequencing Results among Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer at a Young Age
Authors: Seo Joann , Ivanovich Jennifer , Goodman Melody S. , Biesecker Barbara B. , Kaphingst Kimberly A.
Published: August 2016

We investigated what information women diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age would want to learn when genome sequencing results are returned. We conducted 60 semi‐structured interviews with women diagnosed with breast cancer at age 40 or younger. We examined what specific information participants would want to learn across result types and for each type of result, as well as how much information they would want. Genome sequencing was not offered to participants as part of the study. Two coders independently coded interview transcripts; analysis was conducted using NVivo10. Across result types, participants wanted to learn about health implications, risk and prevalence in quantitative terms, causes of variants, and causes of diseases. Participants wanted to learn actionable information for variants affecting risk of preventable or treatable disease, medication response, and carrier status. The amount of desired information differed for variants affecting risk of unpreventable or untreatable disease, with uncertain significance, and not health‐related. Women diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age recognize the value of genome sequencing results in identifying potential causes and effective treatments and expressed interest in using the information to help relatives and to further understand their other health risks. Our findings can inform the development of effective feedback strategies for genome sequencing that meet patients’ information needs and preferences.
Interactions Between Sodium Oleate and Polyoxyethylene Ether and the Application in the Low‐Temperature Flotation of Scheelite at 283 K
Authors: Zhu Hailing , Qin Wenqing , Chen Chen , Liu Ruizeng
Published: August 2016

The poor collecting performance of fatty acids at low temperatures is a problem in mineral flotation. In this study, the floatability of scheelite at 283 K was studied using sodium oleate and binary mixtures of sodium oleate and lauryl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether (MOA‐9) as the collector, and interactions between the two surfactants at 283 K were investigated by the means of surface tension and steady state fluorescence measurements. The flotation experiment results show that the collecting performance of the mixed anonic/nonionic collector is stronger than that of single surfactant, and the best molar ratio of sodium oleate to MOA‐9 is 10:1 at pH 10. The surface tension results show that the critical micelle concentration value of sodium oleate, MOA‐9 and the binary solution is about 2 × 10−4, 2.5 × 10−4, and 1.2 × 10−4 mol/l, respectively. Compared with single surfactants, the mixture exhibits better surface activities since it is more efficient at decreasing the air–water surface tension. The steady state fluorescence results indicate that the hydrophobic parts of MOA‐9 molecules insert into the hydrophobic region of sodium oleate micelles to form larger and less compact mixed micelles. The decrease in zeta potential of scheelite treated with the mixed collector indicates the presence of MOA‐9 can enhance the chemical adsorption of sodium oleate on the scheelite surface. Therefore, the mixed anonic/nonionic collector can enhance the flotation behavior of scheelite at 283 K.
Synthesis and Properties of Alkylβ‐d‐Galactopyranoside
Authors: Chen Guoyong , Li Zhencao , Chen Langqiu , Ji Shanwei , Shen Wangzhen
Published: August 2016

A series of alkylβ‐d‐galactopyranosides were prepared by the trichloroacetimidate method withd‐galactose and alcohols with different chain lengths as raw materials. Their solubility, surface tension, emulsification, foaming, wettability, thermotropic liquid crystalline properties, and thermal stability were investigated. Alkylβ‐d‐galactopyranosides are soluble in water and ethanol, and the solubility decreases with increasing alkyl chain length. Decylβ‐d‐galactopyranoside was insoluble in water, but soluble in ethanol. Dissolution of alkylβ‐d‐galactopyranoside in water is an endothermic process with dissolution enthalpies greater than zero. Nonylβ‐d‐galactopyranoside had an excellent emulsifying property, better foaming ability and the best foam stability. The CMC values of alkylβ‐d‐galactopyranosides decrease with increasing of alkyl chain length. Alkylβ‐d‐galactopyranosides are thermally stable up to 270 °C. Alkylβ‐d‐galactopyranosides show the distinctive optical texture of a thermotropic liquid crystal smectic A type phase. Decylβ‐d‐galactopyranoside showed the strongest wettability.
Heat generation properties in AC magnetic field for composite powder material of the Y3Fe5O12–nSiC system prepared by reverse coprecipitation method
Authors: Aono Hiromichi , Yamano Yuhi , Naohara Takashi , Itagaki Yoshiteru , Maehara Tsunehiro , Hirazawa Hideyuki
Published: August 2016

Composite powder material of the Y3Fe5O12–nSiC system was synthesized by a reverse coprecipitation method to study its heat generation property in an AC magnetic field. For Y3Fe5O12 (n = 0), the maximum heat generation ability of 0.45 W·g−1 in an AC magnetic field (370 kHz, 1.77 kA·m−1) was obtained for the sample calcined at 1100 °C. The SiC addition helped to suppress the particle growth for Y3Fe5O12 at the calcination temperature. The heat generation ability was improved by the addition of the SiC powder, and the maximum value of 0.93 W·g−1 was obtained for the n = 0.3 sample calcined at 1250 °C. The heat generation ability and the hysteresis loss value were proportional to the cube of the magnetic field (H
3). The heat generation ability (W·g−1) of the Y3Fe5O12–0.3SiC sample calcined at 1250 °C could be expressed by the equation 4.5×10−4 · f · H
3 using the frequency f (kHz) and the magnetic field H (kA·m−1).
Engaging adolescent girls in transactional sex through compensated dating
Authors: Cheung Chau‐kiu , Jia Xinshan , Li Jessica Chi‐mei , Lee Tak‐yan
Published: August 2016

Transactional sex through so‐called compensated dating in adolescent girls is a problem in need of public concern. Compensated dating typically involves the use of information communication technology to advertise, search, bargain, and eventually arrange for transactional sex. The technology enables the sexual partners to maintain privacy and secrecy in transactional sex. Such secrecy necessitates the girls' disclosure about their life experiences in order to address the concern. The disclosure is the focus of the present qualitative study of 27 girls practicing the dating in Hong Kong, China. Based on the disclosure, the study presents a grounded theory that epitomizes engagement in compensated dating by referential choice. Such a referential choice theory unravels that choice with reference to the family push and social norms sustains the engagement. Meanwhile, the choice rests on expectancy and reinforcement from experiential learning about compensated dating. The theory thus implies ways to undercut the engagement through diverting the referential choice of the dating.
Measuring positive and negative aspects of youth behavior: Development and validation of the Adolescent Functioning Scale
Authors: Dittman Cassandra K. , Burke Kylie , Filus Ania , Haslam Divna , Ralph Alan
Published: August 2016

This paper outlines the development and validation of the Adolescent Functioning Scale (AFS) in an Australian sample of parents of young people aged 11–18 years (N = 278). The AFS, a parent self‐report measure, was designed to assess problem behavior and positive development in adolescents. Principal components analysis produced a 33‐item measure comprising four subscales: Positive Development, Oppositional Defiant Behavior, Antisocial Behavior and Emotional Difficulties. Convergent validity was established via correlations between the AFS and established measures of adolescent functioning and parenting, and discriminant validity was shown through no association between the AFS and a measure of technology use. Internal consistency for the subscales was high (H = .82–.92 for different age groups), as was test‐retest reliability (r = .77–.86). The study indicated that the AFS is a potentially valuable tool for assessing levels of problem behaviors and positive development in adolescents.
Positively useless: irrelevant negative information enhances positive impressions
Authors: Shoham Meyrav , Moldovan Sarit , Steinhart Yael
Published: August 2016

This research examines the impact of irrelevant information and its valence (positive or negative) on consumers' evaluations, choices, and post‐choice satisfaction, within the context of online reviews. We demonstrate that seemingly irrelevant online reviews can enhance positive impressions, but only if they are labeled with a negative valence (e.g., with a one‐star rather than a five‐star rating). A series of studies provides support for this positive effect of negatively valenced irrelevant information; namely, the inclusion of a negatively valenced irrelevant review alongside positive reviews leads to greater product preferences, as consumers feel confident that the information they have about the product is more complete. We also demonstrate the moderating role of review source.
Opioids Increase Sexual Dysfunction in Patients with Non-Cancer Pain
Authors: Ajo Raquel , Segura Ana , Inda María M , Planelles Beatriz , Martínez Luz , Ferrández Guillermina , Sánchez Angel , César Margarit  , Peiró Ana-María
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Long-term opioid therapy has been found to have a strong impact on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis that can be manifested clinically by sexual dysfunction (SD). This event is rarely reported and thus unnoticed and undertreated.

Aim

To analyze the presence of SD in a large group of patients receiving long-term opioids.

Methods

A descriptive, cross-sectional pilot study of sexual health was conducted for 2 years in 750 consecutive ambulatory patients with chronic non-cancer pain (CNP) receiving opioids for at least 12 months. Cases that reported SD and matched controls were included. Standardized questionnaires and medical record reviews were used to assess rates of pain at diagnosis, daily morphine equivalent doses, and opioid adverse effects.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual function was determined by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI; scores = 2–36) and the International Index of Erectile Function erectile function domain (IIEF-EF; scores = 1–30).

Results

Thirty-three percent of 33% of 750 patients with CNP recorded SD based on their spontaneous notification at the pain unit. Men reported SD significantly more frequently than women (33% vs 25%, respectively, P < .05), although they reported having a regular partner (84% vs 70%, P = .03) and a sexually active life (69% vs 34%, respectively, P = .00) significantly more often. FSFI scores were significantly influenced by sexual activity in lubrication and arousal. IIEF scores were significantly determined by age in satisfaction with sexual intercourse and overall satisfaction. The morphine equivalent dose was significant higher in men than in women (38%; median = 70 mg/d, interquartile range = 43.1–170, 115.5 ± 110.3 mg/d vs median = 60 mg/d, interquartile range = 30–100.6, 76.67 ± 63.79 mg/d, P = .016) at the same mean intensity of pain (P = .54), which correlated to FSFI scores (r = −0.313, P = .01).

Conclusion

SD is prevalent in patients with CNP and higher in men who received a significantly higher mean opioid dose at the same intensity pain level than women. The morphine equivalent dose was correlated to SD intensity. Evidence-based interventions to support sexual activity and function in CNP are needed.
Sexual Response Models: Toward a More Flexible Pattern of Women's Sexuality
Authors: Ferenidou Fotini , Kirana Paraskevi-Sofia , Fokas Konstantinos , Hatzichristou Dimitrios , Athanasiadis Loukas
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Recent research suggests that none of the current theoretical models can sufficiently describe women's sexual response, because several factors and situations can influence this.

Aim

To explore individual variations of a sexual model that describes women's sexual responses and to assess the association of endorsement of that model with sexual dysfunctions and reasons to engage in sexual activity.

Methods

A sample of 157 randomly selected hospital employees completed self-administered questionnaires.

Main Outcome Measures

Two models were developed: one merged the Master and Johnson model with the Kaplan model (linear) and the other was the Basson model (circular). Sexual function was evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index and the Brief Sexual Symptom Checklist for Women. The Reasons for Having Sex Questionnaire was administered to investigate the reasons for which women have sex.

Results

Women reported that their current sexual experiences were at times consistent with the linear and circular models (66.9%), only the linear model (27%), only the circular model (5.4%), and neither model (0.7%). When the groups were reconfigured to the group that endorsed more than 5 of 10 sexual experiences, 64.3% of women endorsed the linear model, 20.4% chose the linear and circular models, 14.6% chose the circular model, and 0.7% selected neither. The Female Sexual Function Index, demographic factors, having sex for insecurity reasons, and sexual satisfaction correlated with the endorsement of a sexual response model. When these factors were entered in a stepwise logistic regression analysis, only the Female Sexual Function Index and having sex for insecurity reasons maintained a significant association with the sexual response model.

Conclusion

The present study emphasizes the heterogeneity of female sexuality, with most of the sample reporting alternating between the linear and circular models. Sexual dysfunctions and having sex for insecurity reasons were associated with the Basson model.
Spatial and temporal clonal evolution during development of metastatic urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Thomsen Mathilde B.H. , Nordentoft Iver , Lamy Philippe , Høyer Søren , Vang Søren , Hedegaard Jakob , Borre Michael , Jensen Jørgen B. , Ørntoft Torben F. , Dyrskjøt Lars
Published: August 2016

Patients with metastatic bladder cancer have a median survival of only 13–14 months. Precision medicine using targeted therapy may improve survival. Here we investigated spatial and temporal tumour evolution and tumour heterogeneity in order to evaluate the potential use of targeted treatment of metastatic bladder cancer. We performed a proof‐of‐concept study by whole exome sequencing of multiple tumour regions (n = 22) from three patients with metastatic bladder cancer. DNA from primary and metastatic tumour biopsies was analysed for mutations using Mutect and potential therapeutic targets were identified. We identified 256, 265 and 378 somatic mutations per patient, encompassing mutations with an estimated functional impact in 6–12 known disease driver genes per patient. Disease driver mutations present in all tumour regions could be identified in all cases, however, over time metastasis specific driver mutations emerged. For each patient we identified 6–10 potentially therapeutic targets, however very few targets were present in all regions. Low mutational allele frequencies were observed in most regions suggesting a complex mixture of different cancer cells with no spatial demarcation of subclones. In conclusion, primary bladder tumours and metastatic lesions showed heterogeneity at the molecular level, but within the primary tumour the heterogeneity appeared low. The observed lack of potential therapeutic targets common to all cancer cells in primary tumours and metastases emphasizes the challenges in designing rational targeted therapy solely based on analysis of the primary tumours.
Pandemic Risk Assessment Model (PRAM): a mathematical modeling approach to pandemic influenza planning
Authors: DOVER D. C. , KIRWIN E. M. , HERNANDEZ-CERON N. , NELSON K. A.
Published: August 2016

The Pandemic Risk Assessment Model (PRAM) is a mathematical model developed to analyse two pandemic influenza control measures available to public health: antiviral treatment and immunization. PRAM is parameterized using surveillance data from Alberta, Canada during pandemic H1N1. Age structure and risk level are incorporated in the compartmental, deterministic model through a contact matrix. The model characterizes pandemic influenza scenarios by transmissibility and severity properties. Simulating a worst-case scenario similar to the 1918 pandemic with immediate stockpile release, antiviral demand is 20·3% of the population. With concurrent, effective and timely immunization strategies, antiviral demand would be significantly less. PRAM will be useful in informing policy decisions such as the size of the Alberta antiviral stockpile and can contribute to other pandemic influenza planning activities and scenario analyses.
Cognitive and Social Functioning Deficits after Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis: An Exploratory Case Series
Authors: McKeon Gemma L. , Scott James G. , Spooner Donna M. , Ryan Alexander E. , Blum Stefan , Gillis David , Langguth Daman , Robinson Gail A.
Published: August 2016

Background:Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is a recently described life-threatening autoimmune disorder associated with a characteristic multi-stage neuropsychiatric syndrome. Although it is known that the majority of patients experience neuropsychological disturbance post-treatment, some aspects of the cognitive profile remain unclear.Methods:This study sought to investigate patterns of cognitive functioning in a sample of anti-NMDAR encephalitis patients. Seven (6F:1M; mean age, 26.4 years; range, 16–37 years) treated patients completed a comprehensive set of neurocognitive and social functioning measures. Performance was analyzed using normative data (where available), and comparison with matched controls (10F:4M; mean age, 25.8 years; range, 16–38 years).Results:Individual cognitive profiles ranged from within normal limits to extensive dysfunction. Relative to controls, the patient group’s performance was affected in the domains of verbal/ visual memory, working memory, attention, processing speed, executive functioning, and social cognition. The patient group also reported significantly higher levels of anxiety compared to controls.Conclusions:These results add to the accumulating evidence that neurocognitive deficits, consistent with the distribution and functions of the NMDAR system can persist during recovery from anti-NMDAR encephalitis. This is the first study to provide evidence of performance decrements on measures of social cognition, including some involving theory of mind. (JINS, 2016,22, 828–838)
The vowels of contemporary RP: vowel formant measurements for BBC newsreaders
Authors: BJELAKOVIĆ ANDREJ
Published: August 2016

The study aims to enrich the available acoustic data pertaining to vowels of what may tentatively be called contemporary RP or near-RP. The corpus comprised BBC radio and TV broadcasts of seven male and seven female newsreaders. F1 and F2 measurements of 11 monophthongs (kit, dress, trap, foot, strut, lot, fleece, palm, goose, thoughtandnurse) and 4 diphthongs (goat, price, mouthandface) were taken. The results are presented both as raw mean F1 and F2 frequencies in Hertz and on a plot normalised according to Lobanov (1971). The results, among other things, confirm our hypothesis that the onset ofmouthis now decidedly fronter than and does not overlap with the onset ofprice.Furthermore, we sought to determine the exact extent ofgoose-fronting, which according to our data is, even in this variety of English, fronter than centre, as well as the quality of thegoatglide, which seems to be following suit.
Forecasting Space Weather Like Earth Weather
Authors: Crane Leah
Published: August 2016

Researchers find that as with terrestrial weather, ensemble forecasting—which uses several different models simultaneously—is the best way to produce accurate and precise forecasts of space weather.
NASA's New Asteroid Sampler Will Illuminate Solar System's History
Authors: Wendel JoAnna
Published: August 2016

In 7 years, scientists hope to directly analyze materials from the asteroid Bennu, an object that may reveal what conditions were like in the solar system 4.5 billion years ago.
Liver Gene Expression Profiles Correlate with Virus Infection and Response to Interferon Therapy in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Wu Hui-Lin , Hsiao Tzu-Hung , Chen Pei-Jer , Wong Siao-Han , Kao Jia-Horng , Chen Ding-Shinn , Lu Jo-Yang , Lu Tzu-Pin , Chen Yidong , Chuang Eric Y. , Tu Hui-Chu , Liu Chun-Jen
Published: August 2016

The natural course of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection and treatment response are determined mainly by the genomic characteristics of the individual. We investigated liver gene expression profiles to reveal the molecular basis associated with chronic hepatitis B and IFN-alpha (IFNα) treatment response in CHB patients. Expression profiles were compared between seven paired liver biopsy samples taken before and 6 months after successful IFNα treatment or between pretreatment biopsy samples of 11 IFNα responders and 11 non-responders. A total of 132 differentially up-regulated and 39 down-regulated genes were identified in the pretreated livers of CHB patients. The up-regulated genes were mainly related to cell proliferation and immune response, with IFNγ and B cell signatures significantly enriched. Lower intrahepatic HBV pregenomic RNA levels and 25 predictive genes were identified in IFNα responders. The predictive gene set in responders significantly overlapped with the up-regulated genes associated with the pretreated livers of CHB patients. The mechanisms responsible for IFNα treatment responses are different between HBV and HCV patients. HBV infection evokes significant immune responses even in chronic infection. The up-regulated genes are predictive of responsiveness to IFNα therapy, as are lower intrahepatic levels of HBV pregenomic RNA and pre-activated host immune responses.
A novel perspective for burn-induced myopathy: Membrane repair defect
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Hongyu , Wu Dan , Hu Jianhong , Wu Wei , Zhang Yong , Peng Xi
Published: August 2016

Myopathy is a common complication of severe burn patients. One potential cause of this myopathy could be failure of the plasma membrane to undergo repair following injuries generated from toxin or exercise. The aim of this study is to assess systemic effect on muscle membrane repair deficiency in burn injury. Skeletal muscle fibers isolated from burn-injured mice were damaged with a UV laser and dye influx imaged confocally to evaluate membrane repair capacity. Membrane repair failure was also tested in burn-injured mice subjected to myotoxin or treadmill exercise. We further used C2C12 myotubules and animal models to investigate the role of MG53 in development of burn-induced membrane repair defect. We demonstrated that skeletal muscle myofibers in burn-injured mice showed significantly more dye uptake after laser damage than controls, indicating a membrane repair deficiency. Myotoxin or treadmill exercise also resulted in a higher-grade repair defect in burn-injured mice. Furthermore, we observed that burn injury induced a significant decrease in MG53 levels and its dimerization in skeletal muscles. Our findings highlight a new mechanism that implicates membrane repair failure as an underlying cause of burn-induced myopathy. And, the disorders in MG53 expression and MG53 dimerization are involved in this cellular pathology.
Thymoquinone Alleviates the Experimental Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy by Modulation of Inflammation
Authors: Chen Long , Li Bing , Chen Biqin , Shao Yiye , Luo Qiong , Shi Xiaohong , Chen Yinghui
Published: August 2016

Thymoquinone has been reported to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation plays an important role in pathogenesis of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This study investigated the effects of TQ on proliferation and apoptosis of Schwann cells exposed to high glucose conditions and electrophysiological and morphological changes of the sciatic nerve in a DPN rat model as well as relevant inflammatory mechanism. Cell proliferation and apoptosis of Schwann cells were measured using the Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry. DPN model was established in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Nerve conduction velocity was measured before and after treatment. Morphologic changes were observed by H&E staining and transmission electron microscopy. COX-2, IL-1β, IL-6, and Caspase-3 expression was investigated by western blotting and Bio-Plex ProTM Assays. Finally, TQ alleviated the inhibition of Schwann cell proliferation and protected against Schwann cell apoptosis. It improved nerve conduction velocity, and alleviated the DPN-induced morphological changes and demyelination of the sciatic nerve. COX-2, IL-1β, IL-6 and Caspase-3 expression in sciatic nerve or isolated cultured Schwann cells, were also decreased by TQ. These results indicate TQ has a protective effect on peripheral nerves in a DPN rat model. The mechanism may be mediated partly by the modulation of the inflammatory reaction.
High Per formance and Flexible Supercapacitors based on Carbonized Bamboo Fibers for Wide Temperature Applications
Authors: Zequine Camila , Ranaweera C. K. , Wang Z. , Singh Sweta , Tripathi Prashant , Srivastava O. N. , Gupta Bipin Kumar , Ramasamy K. , Kahol P. K. , Dvornic P. R. , Gupta Ram K.
Published: August 2016

High performance carbonized bamboo fibers were synthesized for a wide range of temperature dependent energy storage applications. The structural and electrochemical properties of the carbonized bamboo fibers were studied for flexible supercapacitor applications. The galvanostatic charge-discharge studies on carbonized fibers exhibited specific capacity of ~510F/g at 0.4 A/g with energy density of 54 Wh/kg. Interestingly, the carbonized bamboo fibers displayed excellent charge storage stability without any appreciable degradation in charge storage capacity over 5,000 charge-discharge cycles. The symmetrical supercapacitor device fabricated using these carbonized bamboo fibers exhibited an areal capacitance of ~1.55 F/cm2at room temperature. In addition to high charge storage capacity and cyclic stability, the device showed excellent flexibility without any degradation to charge storage capacity on bending the electrode. The performance of the supercapacitor device exhibited ~65% improvement at 70 °C compare to that at 10 °C. Our studies suggest that carbonized bamboo fibers are promising candidates for stable, high performance and flexible supercapacitor devices.
Increasing the performance of pooled CRISPR–Cas9 drop-out screening
Authors: Cross Benedict C. S. , Lawo Steffen , Archer Caroline R. , Hunt Jessica R. , Yarker Joanne L. , Riccombeni Alessandro , Little Annette S. , McCarthy Nicola J. , Moore Jonathan D.
Published: August 2016

Components of the type II CRISPR–Cas complex in bacteria have been used successfully in eukaryotic cells to facilitate rapid and accurate cell line engineering, animal model generation and functional genomic screens. Such developments are providing new opportunities for drug target identification and validation, particularly with the application of pooled genetic screening. As CRISPR–Cas is a relatively new genetic screening tool, it is important to assess its functionality in a number of different cell lines and to analyse potential improvements that might increase the sensitivity of a given screen. To examine critical aspects of screening quality, we constructed ultra-complex libraries containing sgRNA sequences targeting a collection of essential genes. We examined the performance of screening in both haploid and hypotriploid cell lines, using two alternative guide design algorithms and two tracrRNA variants in a time-resolved analysis. Our data indicate that a simple adaptation of the tracrRNA substantially improves the robustness of guide loss during a screen. This modification minimises the requirement for high numbers of sgRNAs targeting each gene, increasing hit scoring and creating a powerful new platform for successful screening.
Temperature-responsive in situ nanoparticle hydrogels based on hydrophilic pendant cyclic ether modified PEG-PCL-PEG
Authors: Feng Zujian , Zhao Junqiang , Li Yin , Xu Shuxin , Zhou Junhui , Zhang Jianhua , Deng Liandong , Dong Anjie
Published: August 2016

Thermo-sensitive injectable hydrogels based on poly(ε-caprolactone)/poly(ethylene glycol) (PCL/PEG) block copolymers have attracted considerable attention for sustained drug release and tissue engineering applications.
Solid-state valence tautomeric octahedral {CoII[(BQ-N-Cat)]2}0 complex formation via ligand-centered phenolic C–O bond breaking and Co–O bond making
Authors: Mondal Manas Kumar , Tiwari Archana , Mukherjee Chandan
Published: August 2016

An octahedral {CoII[(BQ-N-Cat)]2}0 complex was formed by ligand-centered phenolic C–O bond cleavage. The complex showed solid-state valence tautomerism that is triggered by lattice solvent molecule.
Functionalization of arrays of silica nanochannels by post-condensation
Authors: Zucchetto N. , Brühwiler D.
Published: August 2016

Functionalized arrays of silica nanochannels (ASNCs) were prepared by post-condensation. This synthetic approach allows control of the functional group distribution in a one-pot reaction, while preserving the defined nanoporous structure of the ASNCs.
Arsenic releasing characteristics during the compaction of muddy sediments
Authors: Xiao Cong , Ma Teng , Du Yao , Yu Haotian , Shen Shuai
Published: August 2016

The dissolved arsenic enrichment in pore water could be released from solid-phase active arsenic during muddy sediments compaction.
Preparation of optically active cycloalkenes bearing all-carbon quaternary stereogenic centres via lipase–oxovanadium combo-catalysed dynamic kinetic resolution
Authors: Kawanishi Shinji , Sugiyama Koji , Oki Yasuhiro , Ikawa Takashi , Akai Shuji
Published: August 2016

A novel asymmetric synthesis of the title compounds was developed via the chemoenzymatic connection of three prochiral and achiral components.
Pebax-1657 mixed matrix membrane containing surface modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes for gas separation
Authors: Habibiannejad S. A. , Aroujalian A. , Raisi A.
Published: August 2016

In this study different functional groups on the surface of carbon nanotube enhanced the performance of Pebax 1657/MWNTs.
Fabrication and characterization of B-doped ZnO nanospheres synthesized on PET/ITO flexible substrates
Authors: Yu Qi , Ai Taotao , Jiang Liyun
Published: August 2016

B doped ZnO nanospheres have been fabricated on PET-ITO flexible substrates by hydrothermal technique.
Lung function and respiratory symptoms in a randomized smoking cessation trial of electronic cigarettes
Authors: Cibella Fabio , Campagna Davide , Caponnetto Pasquale , Amaradio Maria Domenica , Caruso Massimo , Russo Cristina , Cockcroft Donald W. , Polosa Riccardo
Published: August 2016

Quitting smoking is the most important step smokers can take to improve their health. Nonetheless, there is little information on long-term improvements in lung function and/or respiratory symptoms after smoking cessation. Here we illustrate long-term changes in spirometric indices as well as in respiratory symptoms in smokers invited to quit or reduce their cigarette consumption by switching to electronic cigarettes (ECs). Prospective evaluation of cigarette consumption, spirometry and symptoms was performed in a 1-year randomized controlled trial of smokers receiving EC containing 2.4%, 1.8% or 0% nicotine. Spirometric data are presented on the basis of participants’ pooled continuous smoking phenotype classification (Quitters, Reducers, Failures), whereas respiratory symptoms on the basis of their point prevalence-smoking phenotype. Smoking phenotype classification (Quitters, Reducers, Failures) had no significant effect on spirometric indices (FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC) with the exception of FEF25–75%, which significantly (P  =0.034) increased over the time among Quitters; their FEF25–75% (% predicted) improving from (means±S.D.) 85.7±15.6% at baseline (BL) to 100.8±14.6%. High prevalence of cough/phlegm (43.1%) and shortness of breath (SoB; 34.8%) was reported at BL with substantial reduction in their frequency at subsequent follow-up visits. These symptoms virtually disappeared very quickly in both quitters and reducers. Smokers invited to switch to ECs who completely abstained from smoking showed steady progressive improvements in their FEF25–75%. Normalization of peripheral airways function was associated with improvement in respiratory symptoms, adding to the notion that abstaining from smoking can reverse tobacco harm in the lung.
Runaway electrons and magnetic island confinement
Authors: Boozer Allen H.
Published: August 2016

The breakup of magnetic surfaces is a central feature of ITER planning for the avoidance of damage due to runaway electrons. Rapid thermal quenches, which lead to large accelerating voltages, are thought to be due to magnetic surface breakup. Impurity injection to avoid and to mitigate both halo and runaway electron currents utilizes massive gas injection or shattered pellets. The actual deposition is away from the plasma center, and the breakup of magnetic surfaces is thought to spread the effects of the impurities across the plasma cross section. The breakup of magnetic surfaces would prevent runaway electrons from reaching relativistic energies were it not for the persistence of non-intercepting flux tubes. These are tubes of magnetic field lines that do not intercept the walls. In simulations and in magnetic field models, non-intercepting flux tubes are found to persist near the magnetic axis and in the cores of magnetic islands even when a large scale magnetic surface breakup occurs. As long as a few magnetic surfaces reform before all of the non-intercepting flux tubes dissipate, energetic electrons confined and accelerated in these flux tubes can serve as the seed electrons for a transfer of the overall plasma current from thermal to relativistic carriers. The acceleration of electrons is particularly strong because of the sudden changes in the poloidal flux that naturally occur in a rapid magnetic relaxation. The physics of magnetic islands as non-intercepting flux tubes is studied. Expressions are derived for (1) the size of islands required to confine energetic runaway electrons, (2) the accelerating electric field in an island, (3) the increase or reduction in the size of an island by the runaway electron current, (4) the approximate magnitude of the runaway current in an island, and (5) the time scale for the evolution of an island.
Role of nonthermal electron on the dynamics of relativistic electromagnetic soliton in the interaction of laser-plasma
Authors: Rostampooran Shabnam , Dorranian Davoud
Published: August 2016

A system of nonlinear one-dimensional equations of the electron hydrodynamics with Maxwell's equations was developed to describe electromagnetic (EM) solitons in plasma with nonthermal electrons. Equation of vector potential was derived in relativistic regime by implementing the multiple scales technique, and their solitonic answers were introduced. The allowed regions for bright and dark electromagnetic solitons were discussed in detail. Roles of number density of nonthermal electrons, temperature of electrons, and frequency of fast participate of vector potential on the Sagdeev potential and properties of EM soliton were investigated. Results show that with increasing the number of nonthermal electrons, the amplitude of vector potential of bright solitons increases. By increasing the number of nonthermal electrons, dark EM solitons may be changed to bright solitons. Increasing the energy of nonthermal electrons leads to generation of high amplitude solitons.
Evaluation of toroidal torque by non-resonant magnetic perturbations in tokamaks for resonant transport regimes using a Hamiltonian approach
Authors: Albert Christopher G. , Heyn Martin F. , Kapper Gernot , Kasilov Sergei V. , Kernbichler Winfried , Martitsch Andreas F.
Published: August 2016

Toroidal torque generated by neoclassical viscosity caused by external non-resonant, non-axisymmetric perturbations has a significant influence on toroidal plasma rotation in tokamaks. In this article, a derivation for the expressions of toroidal torque and radial transport in resonant regimes is provided within quasilinear theory in canonical action-angle variables. The proposed approach treats all low-collisional quasilinear resonant neoclassical toroidal viscosity regimes including superbanana-plateau and drift-orbit resonances in a unified way and allows for magnetic drift in all regimes. It is valid for perturbations on toroidally symmetric flux surfaces of the unperturbed equilibrium without specific assumptions on geometry or aspect ratio. The resulting expressions are shown to match the existing analytical results in the large aspect ratio limit. Numerical results from the newly developed code NEO-RT are compared to calculations by the quasilinear version of the code NEO-2 at low collisionalities. The importance of the magnetic shear term in the magnetic drift frequency and a significant effect of the magnetic drift on drift-orbit resonances are demonstrated.