bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancement in surface mobility and quantum transport of Bi2−xSbxTe3−ySey topological insulator by controlling the crystal growth conditions
Authors: Han Kyu-Bum , Chong Su Kong , Oliynyk Anton O. , Nagaoka Akira , Petryk Suzanne , Scarpulla Michael A. , Deshpande Vikram V. , Sparks Taylor D. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractDespite numerous studies on three-dimensional topological insulators (3D TIs), the controlled growth of high quality (bulk-insulating and high mobility) TIs remains a challenging subject. This study investigates the role of growth methods on the synthesis of single crystal stoichiometric BiSbTeSe2 (BSTS). Three types of BSTS samples are prepared using three different methods, namely melting growth (MG), Bridgman growth (BG) and two-step melting-Bridgman growth (MBG). Our results show that the crystal quality of the BSTS depend strongly on the growth method. Crystal structure and composition analyses suggest a better homogeneity and highly-ordered crystal structure in BSTS grown by MBG method. This correlates well to sample electrical transport properties, where a substantial improvement in surface mobility is observed in MBG BSTS devices. The enhancement in crystal quality and mobility allow the observation of well-developed quantum Hall effect at low magnetic field.
Topological photonic crystal nanocavity laser
Authors: Ota Yasutomo , Katsumi Ryota , Watanabe Katsuyuki , Iwamoto Satoshi , Arakawa Yasuhiko 
Published: November 2018

AbstractTopological edge states exist at the interfaces between two topologically distinct materials. The presence and number of such modes are deterministically predicted from the bulk band topologies, known as the bulk-edge correspondence. This principle is highly useful for predictably controlling optical modes in resonators made of photonic crystals (PhCs), leading to the recent demonstrations of microscale topological lasers. Meanwhile, zero-dimensional topological trapped states in the nanoscale remained unexplored, despite its importance for enhancing light–matter interactions and for wide applications including single-mode nanolasers. Here, we report a topological PhC nanocavity with a near-diffraction-limited mode volume and its application to single-mode lasing. The topological origin of the nanocavity, formed at the interface between two topologically distinct PhCs, guarantees the existence of only one mode within its photonic bandgap. The observed lasing accompanies a high spontaneous emission coupling factor stemming from the nanoscale confinement. These results encompass a way to greatly downscale topological photonics.
Overexpression of miR-758 inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, and promoted apoptosis of non-small cell lung cancer cells by negatively regulating HMGB
Authors: Zhou Guo-Hua , Lu Yi-Yu , Xie Jing-Lian , Gao Zi-Kun , Wu Xiao-Bo , Yao Wei-Shen , Gu Wei-Guang 
Published: November 2018

AbstractNon-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most fatal types of cancer with significant mortality and morbidity worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRs) have been confirmed to have positive functions in NSCLC. In the present study, we try to explore the role of miR-758 in proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of NSCLC cells by regulating high-mobility group box (HMGB) 3 (HMGB3.) NSCLC and adjacent tissues were collected. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was employed to detect expression of miR-758 and HMGB3 in NSCLC and adjacent tissues, in BEAS-2B cells and NSCLC cell lines. The targetted relationship between miR-758 and HMGB3 was identified by dual luciferase reporter gene assay. The effects of miR-758 on proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle, and apoptosis of A549 cells. MiR-758 expression was lower in NSCLC tissues, which was opposite to HMGB3 expression. The results also demonstrated that miR-758 can target HMGB3. The cells transfected with miR-758 mimic had decreased HMGB3 expression, proliferation, migration, and invasion, with more arrested cells in G1 phase and increased apoptosis. Our results supported that the overexpression of miR-758 inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion, and promotes apoptosis of NSCLC cells by negative regulating HMGB2. The present study may provide a novel target for NSCLC treatment.
Effects of OPRM1 and ABCB1 gene polymorphisms on the analgesic effect and dose of sufentanil after thoracoscopic-assisted radical resection of lung cancer
Authors: Zhao Zhonghai , Lv Bin , Zhao Xiaodong , Zhang Yunlong 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Objective: To study the effects of single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the OPRM1 and ABCB1 genes on the analgesic effect and consumption of sufentanil after thoracoscopic-assisted radical resection of lung cancer.
Methods: A total of 225 Chinese Han nationality patients undergoing thoracoscopic-assisted radical resection of lung cancer were enrolled in the present study. Among them, 132 were males (58.67%) and 93 (41.33%) were females having American Society of Anesthesiologists statuses classified as grades I or II. The rs1799971, rs563649 and rs1323040 genotypes of the OPRM1 gene and rs2032582, rs1045642 and rs1128503 genotypes of the ABCB1 gene were detected by Sanger sequencing. The state anxiety index and pressure pain threshold were assessed preoperatively. Sufentanil was administered intravenously to maintain anesthesia. The doses and side effects of sufentanil consumed 6 h (T1), 24 h (T2) and 48 h (T3) after surgery were recorded.
Results: The sufentanil doses at T1, T2 and T3 were significantly higher in radical-operation lung cancer patients with mutant homozygous rs1799971 and rs1323040 loci in the OPRM1 gene and rs2032582 and rs1128503 loci in the ABCB1 gene. The doses of sufentanil consumed by mutant heterozygous lung cancer patients at T1, T2 and T3 were significantly higher than those consumed by patients without mutations, and the differences were statistically significant (P&lt;0.05). There was no significant difference in sufentanil doses consumed by lung cancer patients with mutant homozygous, mutant heterozygous and wild-type rs563649 locus of the OPRM1 gene and rs1045642 locus of the ABCB1 gene at T1, T2 and T3 (P&gt;0.05). There was no significant difference in the visual analog scale scores at T1, T2 and T3 for different genotypes of OPRM1 and ABCB1 genes in lung cancer patients (P&gt;0.05). No significant difference was found between the adverse reactions of OPRM1 and ABCB1 genotypes in patients undergoing radical resection of lung cancer (P&gt;0.05).
Conclusion: The rs1799971 and rs1323040 polymorphisms of the OPRM1 gene and rs2032582 and rs1128503 polymorphisms of the ABCB1 gene are related to the analgesic effect and consumed dose of sufentanil in Chinese Han patients undergoing radical operation of lung cancer.
Techniques for Remotely Programming Children With Cochlear Implants Using Pediatric Audiological Methods via Telepractice
Authors: Hughes Michelle L. , Sevier Joshua D. , Choi Sangsook 
Published: November 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this report is to describe the equipment setup and techniques for successfully testing behavioral thresholds in young children with cochlear implants (CIs) using telepractice. We will also discuss challenges associated with pediatric CI programming that are unique to the use of distance technology, and we will describe ways to overcome those challenges. Last, we will review the results from 2 recent studies specifically targeted toward testing behavioral thresholds in young children with CIs.

Method

Conditioned play audiometry or visual reinforcement audiometry was used to measure behavioral thresholds (T levels) for 35 young children with CIs (
n
= 19 for conditioned play audiometry and
n
= 16 for visual reinforcement audiometry). Participants were tested in the traditional in-person condition and in the remote condition using an AB-BA study design over 2 visits.

Results
There was no significant difference in T levels between the in-person and remote conditions, indicating that it is feasible to test young children using conventional pediatric testing procedures via remote technology. The primary challenges encountered were in regard to proper camera and video monitor placement at the remote site and the timing of communication between the audiologist and test assistant.

Conclusions
The results from studies to date suggest that distance technology can be used successfully to program CI sound processors for young children using standard, age-appropriate testing techniques. The alternative of remote testing has substantial implications for reducing time and travel burdens for families, potentially leading to the construction of appropriate maps for young children with CIs in a timelier manner.
Integrated soft switching cell and clamp circuit for interleaved high‐step‐up converters
Authors: Packnezhad Mohsen , Farzanehfard Hosein , Adib Ehsan 
Published: November 2018

An integrated soft switching cell and clamp circuit suitable for interleaved high‐step‐up converters with coupled inductors is proposed in this study. This cell is applied to an interleaved boost converter with winding cross‐coupled inductors and series capacitors. The main contribution of the study is presenting a simple auxiliary circuit which provides soft switching condition and acts as a clamp circuit. In addition, only one auxiliary circuit is utilised for both phases of the proposed converter in order to absorb the energy of the leakage inductances and achieve fully soft switching condition. To verify the theoretical analysis and the operation of the proposed converter, a 300 W prototype converter with 24–380 V conversion ratio is implemented.
19 G nitinol needle versus 22 G needle for transduodenal endoscopic ultrasound-guided sampling of pancreatic solid masses: a randomized study
Authors: Laquière Arthur , Lefort Christine , Maire Frédérique , Aubert Alain , Gincul Rodica , Prat Frédéric , Grandval Philippe , Croizet Olivier , Boulant James , Vanbiervliet Geoffroy , Pénaranda Guillaume , Lecomte Laurence , Napoléon Bertrand , Boustière Christian 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Background The aim of this prospective multicenter study was to compare a flexible 19 G needle with nitinol shaft (19 G Flex) with a standard 22 G needle for transduodenal endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided sampling of pancreatic head tumors.
Methods Patients with pancreatic head tumors requiring tissue diagnosis were randomized into two arms: puncture with either a 19 G Flex needle or a 22 G needle. The primary end point was diagnostic accuracy for malignancy. The secondary end points were ergonomic scores, sample cytohistological quality, and complications. A 6-month follow-up was performed.
Results 125 patients were randomized and 122 were analyzed: 59 patients in the 19 G Flex arm and 63 patients in the 22 G arm. The final diagnosis was malignancy in 111 patients and benign condition in 11. In intention-to-treat analysis, the diagnostic accuracy for malignancy of the 19 G Flex and 22 G needles was 69.5 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 56.1 % – 80.8 %) vs. 87.3 % (95 %CI 76.5 % – 94.4 %), respectively (P = 0.02). In per-protocol analysis excluding eight technical failures in the 19 G Flex group, the diagnostic accuracy of the 19 G Flex and 22 G needles was not statistically different: 80.4 % (95 %CI 66.9 % – 90.2 %) vs. 87.3 % (95 %CI 76.5 % – 94.4 %; P = 0.12). Technical success was higher in the 22 G arm than in the 19 G Flex arm: 100 % (95 %CI 94.3 % – 100 %) vs. 86.4 % (95 %CI 75.0 % – 94.0 %), respectively (P = 0.003). Transduodenal EUS-guided sampling was more difficult with the 19 G Flex (odds ratio 0.68, 95 %CI 0.47 – 0.97).
Conclusion The 19 G Flex needle was inferior to a standard 22 G needle in diagnosing pancreatic head cancer and more difficult to use in the transduodenal approach.
Probabilistic control of HIV latency and transactivation by the Tat gene circuit
Authors: Cao Youfang , Lei Xue , Ribeiro Ruy M. , Perelson Alan S. , Liang Jie 
Published: November 2018

Significance
The reservoir of HIV latently infected cells is the major obstacle for complete eradication of HIV infection. Latency and its transactivation in HIV-infected cells are controlled by the intracellular HIV Tat gene circuit. By reconstructing the probability landscape of the circuit through exact solution of the underlying chemical master equation we examined the detailed mechanism of probabilistic intracellular control of latency and transactivation. We show that while the Tat circuit lacks deterministic bistability its probability landscape exhibits bimodality. Moreover, by exploring changes in the probability landscapes under different perturbations, our study suggests effective therapeutic targets for strategies of “shock and kill” to eliminate latently infected cells and “block and lock” to enforce deep latency.
Cover Crops Enhance Natural Enemies While Help Suppressing Pests in a Tea Plantation
Authors: Chen Li-Lin , Yuan Pei , You Min-Sheng , Pozsgai Gabor , Ma Xu , Zhu Huaiping , Yang Guang 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Tea is an economically important crop, consumed by billions of people. Despite the increasing market for pesticide-free products, the use of pesticide in tea is still high. In order to investigate whether intercropping promotes biological control organisms, Chamaecrista rotundifolia (Pers.) Greene, Indigofera hendecaphylla Jacq., Trifolium repens L., and Vigna sinensis (L.) were separately intercropped with free weeding as control in a tea plantation at Yangli, China. Arthropods were collected by taking sweep-net samples, and treatment effects on assemblages were investigated. The combined species richness of all arthropods and that of parasitoids was significantly increased in intercropped treatments while the species richness of herbivores and predators was only greater in C. rotundifolia and I. hendecaphylla intercropped treatments. Compared with control, the combined abundance of all arthropods, and that of herbivores was lower, while the abundance of parasitoids and its taxa was greater in all intercropped treatments. The abundance of predators and its taxa was greater only in tea plantations intercropped with C. rotundifolia or I. hendecaphylla. Of the herbivores, the abundance of Empoasca onukii Matsuda, Sternorrhyncha, Aleyrodidae, and Pentatomidae was greater in the areas intercropped with C. rotundifolia in comparison with the control, but the abundance of Thysanoptera and Geometridae caterpillars was lower. The recorded increase in the abundance of beneficial arthropods may explain the lower abundance of Thysanoptera or Geometridae caterpillars detected in the intercropped tea plantations. Our results indicate that intercropping has the potential to enhance arthropod biodiversity, and to provide an option for sustainable pest control in tea plantations.
Older HIV+ and HIV− Adults Provide Similar Definitions of Successful Aging: A Mixed-Methods Examination
Authors: Fazeli Pariya L , Montoya Jessica L , McDavid Chastity N , Moore David J 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Background and Objective
As HIV-infected (HIV+) individuals age, there is a need to understand successful aging (SA) from the patient perspective. This study compared SA definitions between HIV+ and HIV-uninfected (HIV−) older adults and then examined correlates of SA categories.

Research Design and Methods
Ninety-three HIV+ and 46 HIV− older (aged 50+) adults provided brief definitions of SA, which was examined using content analysis. We then compared the frequency of SA categories by serostatus and examined the correlates of SA categories within both groups.

Results
Seven SA categories emerged: General Health, Cognitive Health & Ability, Physical/Biological Health & Ability, Social Relationships, Attitudes, Psychological, & Emotional Well-Being, Proactive & Engaged Lifestyle, and Independence. While no significant differences emerged, HIV− older adults were more likely to report General Health and the subcategory of Longevity/Survival, while HIV+ older adults were more likely to report subcategories of Enjoying Life & Fulfillment and Maintaining Balance. Few demographic correlates of SA categories emerged. Mood and HIV characteristics were not associated with SA categories. In both groups, those without neurocognitive impairment were significantly more likely to endorse General Health than those with neurocognitive impairment.

Discussion and Implications
HIV+ and HIV− older individuals may generally perceive SA similarly, and their definitions parallel with existing models of SA. Yet, living with a chronic illness may cause HIV+ older adults to place greater value on quality of life and life satisfaction than physical health and chronological age. Observational and intervention studies may use similar approaches in evaluating and maximizing SA.
The Predictors of and Motivations for Increased Family Involvement in Nursing Homes
Authors: Roberts Amy Restorick , Ishler Karen J , Adams Kathryn Betts 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesQuantitative and qualitative data from a statewide survey of family members of nursing home residents were analyzed to determine the predictors of, and motivations for, family involvement.Research Design and MethodsWe examined 3 types of involvement: visiting, providing personal care, and family–staff communication. Our mixed methods approach used (a) multilevel regression models to examine predictors of family involvement, including family member perceptions and resident, family member, and facility characteristics, and (b) a thematic analysis of qualitative data regarding the experiences of family members and their motivations for involvement.ResultsFamilies were more involved when a short-term stay (&lt;3 months) was expected, and when residents were in poorer physical condition. Spouses and female family members were more involved than others, yet the effect of gender varied by relationship type. At the facility level, families of residents in rural facilities reported less family involvement. Aside from these commonalities, predictors of each type of involvement varied. Themes from the qualitative data identify unique motivations for each type of involvement—to enhance residents’ identity, care, or quality of life.DiscussionFamilies visit more and provide more hands-on assistance when they are not confident in the care being provided or the well-being and stability of their resident loved one. Receiving adequate information, perceiving staff as friendly, and residents as looking well cared for promote greater family–staff communication.ImplicationsFindings can inform strategies to increase meaningful family involvement in nursing homes.
Measurement of ambient neutrons in an underground laboratory at the Kamioka Observatory
Authors: Mizukoshi Keita , Taishaku Ryosuke , Hosokawa Keishi , Kobayashi Kazuyoshi , Miuchi Kentaro , Naka Tatsuhiro , Takeda Atsushi , Tanaka Masashi , Wada Yoshiki , Yorita Kohei , Yoshida Sei 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Ambient neutrons are one of the most serious backgrounds for underground experiments searching for rare events. The ambient neutron flux in an underground laboratory at the Kamioka Observatory was measured using a $\mathrm{^3He}$ proportional counter with various moderator setups. Since the detector response largely depends on the spectral shape, the energy spectra of the neutrons transported from the rock to the laboratory were estimated by Monte Carlo simulations. The ratio of the thermal neutron flux to the total neutron flux was found to depend on the thermalizing efficiency of the rock. Therefore, the ratio of the count rate without a moderator to that with a moderator was used to determine this parameter. Consequently, the most likely neutron spectrum predicted by the simulations for the parameters determined by the experimental results was obtained. The result suggests an interesting spectral shape, which has not been indicated in previous studies. The total ambient neutron flux is $(23.5 \pm 0.7 \ \mathrm{_{stat.}} ^{+1.9}_{-2.1} \ \mathrm{_{sys.}}) \times 10^{-6}$ cm$^{-2}$ s$^{-1}$. This result, especially the energy spectrum information, could be a new and important input for estimating the background in current and future experiments in the underground laboratory at the Kamioka Observatory.
TheraBracelet Stimulation During Task-Practice Therapy to Improve Upper Extremity Function After Stroke: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Seo Na J , Woodbury Michelle L , Bonilha Leonardo , Ramakrishnan Viswanathan , Kautz Steven A , Downey Ryan J , Dellenbach Blair H S , Lauer Abigail W , Roark Caroline M , Landers Lauren E , Phillips Sarah K , Vatinno Amanda A 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Background
Peripheral sensory stimulation has been used in conjunction with upper extremity movement therapy to increase therapy-induced motor gains in patients with stroke. The limitation is that existing sensory stimulation methods typically interfere with natural hand tasks and thus are administered prior to therapy, requiring patients’ time commitment. To address this limitation, we developed TheraBracelet. This novel stimulation method provides subthreshold (ie, imperceptible) vibratory stimulation to the wrist and can be used during hand tasks/therapy without interfering with natural hand tasks.

Objective
The objective was to determine the feasibility of using TheraBracelet during therapy to augment motor recovery after stroke.

Design
The design was a triple-blinded pilot randomized controlled trial.

Methods
Twelve chronic stroke survivors were assigned to the treatment or control group. All participants completed 2-hour task practice therapy sessions thrice weekly for 2 weeks. Both groups wore a small vibrator on the paretic wrist, which was turned on to provide TheraBracelet stimulation for the treatment group and turned off for the control group to provide sham stimulation. Outcome measures (Box and Block Test [BBT] and Wolf Motor Function Test [WMFT]) were obtained at baseline, 6 days after therapy, and at follow-up 19 days after therapy.

Results
The intervention was feasible with no adverse events. The treatment group significantly improved their BBT scores after therapy and at follow-up compared with baseline, whereas the control group did not. For WMFT, the group × time interaction was short of achieving significance. Large effect sizes were obtained (BBT d = 1.43, WMFT d = 0.87). No indication of desensitization to TheraBracelet stimulation was observed.

Limitations
The limitation was a small sample size.

Conclusions
TheraBracelet could be a promising therapy adjuvant for upper extremity recovery after stroke.