bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenylphosphinic acid‐catalyzed synthesis of 6‐unsubstituted dihydropyrimidinones under solvent‐free conditions
Authors: Alinezhad Heshmatollah , Tajbakhsh Mahmood , Zare Mahboobeh , Mousavi Mahboobeh
Published: August 2016

Phenylphosphinic acid is found to catalyze the three‐component condensation of an aldehyde, enaminone, and urea or thiourea to afford the corresponding 6‐unsubstituted dihydropyrimidinones in high to excellent yields. This methodology is simple and fast synthetic route for the preparation of interesting class of heterocycles.
Elevated cholesterol levels have a poor prognosis in a cholestasis scenario
Authors: Nuño‐Lámbarri Natalia , Barbero‐Becerra Varenka J , Uribe Misael , Chávez‐Tapia Norberto C
Published: August 2016

Cholestasis results from defective bile flow through the biliary ducts leading to the accumulation of bile acids (BAs) in hepatocytes and serum. It has been seen that cholestasis is associated with hypercholesterolemia, which is a prerequisite for gallstone formation and primary biliary cirrhosis, being some of the most common gastrointestinal disorders in Western societies. Cytotoxic BAs induce proinflammatory mediators, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in hepatocytes, whereas cytoprotective BAs prevent them; they can also modify the plasmatic membrane structure of cells or mitochondrial outer membrane properties as well as the distribution of cholesterol, altering various proteins involved in BAs homeostasis.
Comparative analysis of bacteria associated with different mosses by 16S rRNA and 16S rDNA sequencing
Authors: Tian Yang , Li Yan Hong
Published: August 2016

To understand the differences of the bacteria associated with different mosses, a phylogenetic study of bacterial communities in three mosses was carried out based on 16S rDNA and 16S rRNA sequencing. The mosses used were Hygroamblystegium noterophilum, Entodon compressus and Grimmia montana, representing hygrophyte, shady plant and xerophyte, respectively. In total, the operational taxonomic units (OTUs), richness and diversity were different regardless of the moss species and the library level. All the examined 1183 clones were assigned to 248 OTUs, 56 genera were assigned in rDNA libraries and 23 genera were determined at the rRNA level. Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes were considered as the most dominant phyla in all the libraries, whereas abundant Actinobacteria and Acidobacteria were detected in the rDNA library of Entodon compressus and approximately 24.7% clones were assigned to Candidate division TM7 in Grimmia montana at rRNA level. The heatmap showed the bacterial profiles derived from rRNA and rDNA were partly overlapping. However, the principle component analysis of all the profiles derived from rDNA showed sharper differences between the different mosses than that of rRNA‐based profiles. This suggests that the metabolically active bacterial compositions in different mosses were more phylogenetically similar and the differences of the bacteria associated with different mosses were mainly detected at the rDNA level. Obtained results clearly demonstrate that combination of 16S rDNA and 16S rRNA sequencing is preferred approach to have a good understanding on the constitution of the microbial communities in mosses.
A homogenized long‐term temperature record for the Western Cape Province in South Africa: 1916–2013
Authors: Lakhraj‐Govender Rakhee , Grab Stefan , Ndebele Nothabo E.
Published: August 2016

To establish precise climate trend analyses, highly reliable and accurate homogenous historical climate data are required. To this end, we undertake a robust quality control and homogenization process of daily Tmax and Tmin data (1916–2013) for the Western Cape Province, South Africa, using RClimDex, ProClimDB and Anclim software. Inhomogeneities were detected using the pairwise method in AnClim, suggesting possible artificial shifts in the time series. The adjustment of time series utilized ProClimDB software to create reference series using highly correlated or nearest neighbour stations. Given few available long‐term data sets, the study is limited to eight suitable stations. The modified Mann Kendall test in XLSTAT 2015 software identified annual and seasonal trends in the newly homogenized monthly Tmax and Tmin data. Annual Tmax and Tmin adjusted data over the Western Cape region indicate statistically significant increasing temperature trends over the period 1916–2013, with the exception of an insignificant decreasing Tmax trend at Cape St Blaize. A statistically significant increasing trend (0.13 °C/decade) for all stations used in this study is recorded for the common period 1937–2001. The seasonal trends also support significant increasing trends, with the exception of Tmax trends for summer (−0.03 °C/decade) and autumn (0 °C/decade) at Kirstenbosch.
Bidirectional raster scanning to increase time for vector writing in avionics see‐through displays
Authors: Moddal Amandeep , Karar Vinod , Agrawal Divya , Rawat Mohit
Published: August 2016

See‐through displays (STD) like head‐up displays (HUD) play major role in providing aircraft data to pilot through a visual interface. The data is displayed in form of symbology in pilot's line of sight using vector scanning technique and is deciphered to get flight and mission information. Contrast ratio required to see against bright sunlight at high altitudes is given only by luminance of cathode ray tube (CRT). Therefore, CRT is still used as display source in avionic HUDs, although other devices are also being explored for these applications. Aircraft's night mode operation requires raster display of external scene information along with vector data display due to low visibility during night. It reduces time available for writing vector data during night mode resulting in reduced symbology. Conventionally used raster scanning methods are unidirectional scanning methods. Bidirectional raster scanning (BRS) is an unconventional approach which scans display screen from both directions. In present work, an algorithm for BRS has been developed in VHDL providing more time for vector writing by increasing vertical retrace period (VRP) of raster scanning. Functional verification of design has been performed by simulations carried out through test‐bench and VRP is increased to 5.8304 ms from conventional 1.2800 ms per field.
Longterm outcomes of stent placement for hepatic venous outflow obstruction in adult liver transplantation recipients
Authors: Chu Hee Ho , Yi Nam‐Joon , Kim Hyo‐Cheol , Lee Kwang‐Woong , Suh Kyung‐Suk , Jae Hwan Jun , Chung Jin Wook
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the longterm outcomes of stent placement for a hepatic venous outflow obstruction in adult liver transplantation recipients. From June 2002 to March 2014, 23 patients were confirmed to have a hepatic venous outflow obstruction after liver transplantation (18 of 789 living donors [2.3%] and 5 of 449 deceased donors [1.1%]) at our institute. Among these patients, stent placement was needed for 16 stenotic lesions in 15 patients (12 males, 3 females; mean age, 51.7 years). The parameters that were documented retrospectively were technical success, clinical success, complications, recurrence, and the patency of the stent. The technical success rate was 100% (16/16). Clinical success was achieved in 11 of the 15 patients (73.3%). A major complication occurred in only 1 patient—a hepatic vein laceration during the navigation of the occluded segment. The median follow‐up period was 33.5 months (range, 0.5‐129.3 months), and the overall 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year primary patency rates of the stent were all 93.8%. One case of occlusion of the stent without clinical signs and symptoms was observed 5 days after the initial procedure. In this patient, the stent was recanalized by balloon angioplasty and showed patent lumen for 48 months of the subsequent follow‐up period. In conclusion, stent placement is a safe and effective treatment modality with favorable longterm outcomes to treat hepatic venous outflow obstruction in adult liver transplantation recipients. Liver Transplantation 22 1554–1561 2016 AASLD.
Impact of donor‐recipient genetic relationship on outcome of living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Ali Mahmoud Abdelwahab , Elshobari Mohamed Morsi , Salah Tarek , Kandeel Al‐Refaey , Sultan Ahmad Mohammad , Elghawalby Ahmad Nabieh , Shehta Ahmed , Elsayed Usama , Fathy Omar , Yassen Amr , Wahab Mohamed Abdel
Published: August 2016

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is a valuable option for expanding the donor pool, especially in localities where deceased organ harvesting is not allowed. In addition, rejection rates were found to be lower in LDLT, which is attributed to the fact that LDLT is usually performed between relatives. However, the impact of genetic relation on the outcome of LDLT has not been studied. In this study, we examined the difference in rejection rates between LDLT from genetically related (GR) donors and genetically unrelated (GUR) donors. All cases that underwent LDLT during the period from May 2004 until May 2014 were included in the study. The study group was divided into 2 groups: LDLT from GR donors and LDLT from GUR donors. A total of 308 patients were included in the study: 212 from GR donors and 96 from GUR donors. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing was not included in the workup for matching donors and recipients. GUR donors were wives (36; 11.7%), sons‐in‐law (7; 2.3%), brothers‐in‐law (12; 3.9%), sisters‐in‐law (1; 0.3%), and unrelated (38; 12.3%). The incidence of acute rejection in the GR group was 17.4% and 26.3% in the GUR group (P value = 0.07). However, there was a significant difference in the incidence of chronic rejection (CR) between the 2 groups: 7% in GR group and 14.7% in the GUR group (P value = 0.03). In terms of overall survival, there was no significant difference between both groups. LDLT from the GUR donors is not associated with a higher incidence of acute cellular rejection. However, CR was significantly lower when grafts were procured from GR donors. HLA matching may be recommended before LDLT from GUR donors. Liver Transplantation 23:43–49 2017 AASLD.
Outcome of living donor liver transplantation using right liver allografts with multiple arterial supply
Authors: Lee Kyo Won , Lee Sanghoon , Huh Jeungmin , Cho Chan Woo , Lee Nuri , Kim Hye Seung , Kim Kyunga , Kim Jong Man , Choi Gyu Seong , Kwon Choon Hyuck David , Joh Jae‐Won , Lee Suk‐Koo
Published: August 2016

A right liver graft with multiple hepatic artery (HA) stumps can be found in approximately 5% of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using a right lobe graft. From January 2000 to June 2014, 1149 patients underwent LDLT procedures. Thirty patients with LDLT using a right lobe graft with multiple HA stumps and 149 patients with LDLT using a right lobe graft with a single HA stump were enrolled. These patients were divided into 3 groups: single HA (group 1, n = 149), multiple HAs with total reconstruction (group 2, n = 19), and multiple HAs with selective partial reconstruction (group 3, n = 11). Selective partial reconstruction was performed only when pulsatile back‐bleeding was confirmed after larger HA reconstruction and sufficient intrahepatic arterial flow was confirmed by Doppler ultrasound (DUS). In group 2, the donor HAs were smaller (P < .001), and HA reconstruction took longer (P < .001). However, there was no significant difference among the groups regarding the arterial complication rate, biliary complication rate, and patient and graft survival. In conclusion, selective partial reconstruction of HA stumps for LDLT using a right lobe graft was feasible when intrahepatic arterial communication was confirmed by pulsatile back‐bleeding from the smaller artery and DUS. Liver Transplantation 22 1649–1655 2016 AASLD.
CGBVS‐DNN: Prediction of Compound‐protein Interactions Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Hamanaka Masatoshi , Taneishi Kei , Iwata Hiroaki , Ye Jun , Pei Jianguo , Hou Jinlong , Okuno Yasushi
Published: August 2016

Computational prediction of compound‐protein interactions (CPIs) is of great importance for drug design as the first step in in‐silico screening. We previously proposed chemical genomics‐based virtual screening (CGBVS), which predicts CPIs by using a support vector machine (SVM). However, the CGBVS has problems when training using more than a million datasets of CPIs since SVMs require an exponential increase in the calculation time and computer memory. To solve this problem, we propose the CGBVS‐DNN, in which we use deep neural networks, a kind of deep learning technique, instead of the SVM. Deep learning does not require learning all input data at once because the network can be trained with small mini‐batches. Experimental results show that the CGBVS‐DNN outperformed the original CGBVS with a quarter million CPIs. Results of cross‐validation show that the accuracy of the CGBVS‐DNN reaches up to 98.2 % (σ<0.01) with 4 million CPIs.
Existence and exponential stability of almost periodic solutions for neutral‐type BAM neural networks with distributed leakage delays
Authors: Xu Changjin , Li Peiluan , Pang Yicheng
Published: August 2016

This paper is concerned with a class of neutral‐type BAM neural networks with distributed leakage delays. By applying the exponential dichotomy of linear differential equations, Lyapunov functional method and contraction mapping principle, we establish some sufficient conditions which ensure the existence and exponential stability of almost periodic solutions for such BAM neural networks. An example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical findings. The results obtained in this article are completely new and complement the previously known studies. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of glycosylated α‐dystroglycan in newborn skeletal and cardiac muscles of fukutin related protein (FKRP) mutant mice
Authors: Keramaris Elizabeth , Lu Pei J. , Tucker Jason , Lu Qi L.
Published: August 2016

Introduction: Mutations in the Fukutin related protein (FKRP) gene are characterized by a lack of functionally glycosylated α‐dystroglycan (F‐α‐DG) in muscles. A small number of fibers retain the capacity to produce strong IIH6 reactive glycosylated‐α‐DG (g‐α‐DG) in muscles of both FKRP mutant animals and patients. Methods: We examined the expression of g‐α‐DG in limb, diaphragm, and cardiac muscles of newborn FKRP mutants and LARGEmyd mice with IIH6 antibody. Results: Near‐normal levels of g‐α‐DG were detected in all 3 muscles in the FKRP448LNeo‐ mutant. Expression was limited within the first 8 postnatal days with decreasing levels. No expression was identified in LARGEmyd mice. Conclusions: Temporary expression of glycosylated‐α‐DG in newborn FKRP mutant muscles is LARGE‐ and mutant FKRP‐dependent. The capability of mutant FKRP with a severe clinic phenotype to produce glycosylated‐α‐DG provides a new perspective for possible approaches to mitigate FKRP deficiency. Muscle Nerve 55: 582–590, 2017
Ionic liquid functionalized graphene oxide for enhancement of styrene‐butadiene rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Yin Biao , Zhang Xumin , Zhang Xun , Wang Jingyi , Wen Yanwei , Jia Hongbing , Ji Qingmin , Ding Lifeng
Published: August 2016

Ionic liquid 1‐allyl‐3‐methyl‐imidazolium chloride (AMICl) is used to fine‐tune the surface properties of graphene oxide (GO) sheets for fabricating ionic liquid functionalized GO (GO‐IL)/styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) nanocomposites. The morphology and structure of GO‐IL are characterized using atomic force microscope, X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV‐vis spectra and Raman spectra. The interaction between GO and AMICl molecules as well as the effects of GO‐IL on the mechanical properties, thermal conductivity and solvent resistance of SBR are thoroughly studied. It is found that AMICl molecules can interact with GO via the combination of hydrogen bond and cation–π interaction. GO‐IL can be well‐dispersed in the SBR matrix, as confirmed by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. Therefore, the SBR nanocomposites incorporating GO‐IL exhibit greatly enhanced performance. The tensile strength, tear strength, thermal conductivity and solvent resistance of GO‐IL/SBR nanocomposite with 5 parts per hundred rubber GO‐IL are increased by 505, 362, 34 and 31%, respectively, compared with neat SBR. This method provides a new insight into the fabrication of multifunctional GO‐based rubber composites. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermoelastic analysis of functionally graded cylinders reinforced by wavy CNT using a mesh‐free method
Authors: Moradi‐Dastjerdi Rasool , Payganeh Gholamhassan , Tajdari Mehdi
Published: August 2016

In this work, thermoelastic analysis of finite length functionally graded (FG) cylinders reinforced by single‐walled wavy carbon nanotube is investigated by a mesh‐free method. The cylinders are subjected to thermal gradient and mechanical loading. The material properties of carbon nanotube (CNT) and polymer matrix are assumed temperature‐dependent and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite are estimated by a micro mechanical model in volume fraction form. CNT distribution has a linear distribution along the radial direction of axisymmetric cylinder. In the mesh‐free analysis, moving least squares shape functions are used for approximation of displacement field in the weak form of equilibrium equation and the transformation method is used for the imposition of essential boundary conditions. Using the mesh‐free method, temperature distribution of the cylinder is derived and then by considering of the temperature, material properties of nanocomposite and stress distribution of the cylinder are derived. So, the effects of CNT distribution pattern and volume fraction, loading (mechanical or thermal), cylinder length and CNT aspect ratio and waviness are investigated on the thermoelastic behavior of the nanocomposite cylinders. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2190–2201, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Polytriazoleimide/Graphene oxide nanocomposites and their properties
Authors: Rukmanikrishnan Balasubramanian , Sadhasivam Balaji , Muthusamy Sarojadevi
Published: August 2016

Polyimide containing 1, 2, 3‐triazole ring (Polytriazoleimide)–Graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites were synthesized by thermal imidization of poly(amic acid) containing 0.5 to 3 wt% GO. Polytriazoleimide (PTAI)/GO nanocomposites were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The formation of GO was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and XRD. The good mechanical properties of the PTAI/GO nanocomposites were attributed to good dispersion and effective stress transfer between the polymer and GO sheets, as evidenced by the results from XRD and morphological studies. Dynamic mechanical analysis of PTAI/GO shows an improvement in the storage modulus from 3.54 to 4.14 GPa and an improvement in the glass transition temperature from 255 to 263°C. PTAI/GO nanocomposites showed good dielectric constant (ɛ′ was found to be in the range of 2.96–3.46) and low dielectric loss (ɛ″ was found to be in the range of 0.38–0.09) at 1 MHz. Thermogravimetric analysis also shows increase in thermal stability with increasing GO content. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2202–2211, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Exploration of the conformational landscape in pregnane X receptor reveals a new binding pocket
Authors: Chandran Aneesh , Vishveshwara Saraswathi
Published: August 2016

Ligand‐regulated pregnane X receptor (PXR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, plays a central role in xenobiotic metabolism. Despite its critical role in drug metabolism, PXR activation can lead to adverse drug‐drug interactions and early stage metabolism of drugs. Activated PXR can induce cancer drug resistance and enhance the onset of malignancy. Since promiscuity in ligand binding makes it difficult to develop competitive inhibitors targeting PXR ligand binding pocket (LBP), it is essential to identify allosteric sites for effective PXR antagonism. Here, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies unravelled the existence of two different conformational states, namely “expanded” and “contracted”, in apo PXR ligand binding domain (LBD). Ligand binding events shifted this conformational equilibrium and locked the LBD in a single “ligand‐adaptable” conformational state. Ensemble‐based computational solvent mapping identified a transiently open potential small molecule binding pocket between α5 and α8 helices, named “α8 pocket”, whose opening‐closing mechanism directly correlated with the conformational shift in LBD. A virtual hit identified through structure‐based virtual screening against α8 pocket locks the pocket in its open conformation. MD simulations further revealed that the presence of small molecule at allosteric site disrupts the LBD dynamics and locks the LBD in a “tightly‐contracted” conformation. The molecular details provided here could guide new structural studies to understand PXR activation and antagonism.
Application of gas chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry to determine a wide range of petrogenic alkylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in biotic samples
Authors: Sørensen Lisbet , Meier Sonnich , Mjøs Svein A.
Published: August 2016

Rationale

Due to the inherent toxicity of these compounds, analysis of petrogenic alkylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heteroaromatic compounds in environmental samples is crucial. However, most existing methods are not sensitive enough when the analyte concentrations are low. Gas chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) is well suited to tackle this challenge, but methods are yet to be fully developed.

Methods

A gas chromatograph coupled with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer operated in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode was applied for the analysis. MRM transitions and analytical conditions were optimized for the cluster analysis of 24 different compound classes of alkylated PAHs and heteroaromatics present in crude oils. Further, the method was verified and applied to analyze the body burden of these compounds in crude oil‐exposed haddock eggs.

Results

A comprehensive and sensitive method for the determination of C1‐C4 alkylated naphthalenes, benzothiophenes, fluorenes, phenanthrenes, dibenzothiophenes, chrysenes, pyrenes and fluoranthenes was developed. The method showed good precision (RSD <15%), and the obtained concentrations were similar to those obtained by traditional GC/MS analysis.

Conclusions

We demonstrate the successful application of this method towards crude oil‐exposed fish eggs, where we are able to precisely measure total PAH body burden below 0.5 μg/g. The demonstrated method facilitates further miniaturization in sample preparation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Examination of ion beam induced damage on polymer surface using Ar clusters
Authors: Kawashima Tomoko , Morita Hiromi , Fukumoto Noriaki , Kurosawa Takako , Aoyagi Satoka
Published: August 2016

The damage of polymer surfaces caused by the high energy primary ion beams of TOF‐SIMS was examined using Ar cluster ions. Polymer damage, the damage of secondary ions detected from the polystyrene surface and the damage layer formed by the Bi3 primary ion beam have previously been studied. In this study, the damage observed in the secondary ions was studied by using Ar cluster primary ions. The secondary ions were mainly classified into two types, ions reflecting the polystyrene structure and cyclized ions, generated by excessive energy, which are not useful for qualitative analysis. The layer damaged by irradiation of the Bi3 primary ion regarding PS samples was confirmed using Ar cluster sputtering beams. The depth of the layer that has chemical damage in the PS main chain caused by 30 kV Bi3++ (ion dose: 5 × 1012 ions/cm2) irradiation was approximately 50–60 nm. The Ar cluster ion sputter rate in PS decreases with the Bi3 ion irradiation. Micro PS particles that are not able to be detected by a conventional TOF‐SIMS measurement can be effectively analyzed by accumulating the secondary ions over the static limit using Ar cluster sputtering. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of edible blend films with good mechanical and barrier properties from pea starch and guar gum
Authors: Saberi Bahareh , Thakur Rahul , Bhuyan Deep Jyoti , Vuong Quan V. , Chockchaisawasdee Suwimol , Golding John B. , Scarlett Christopher J. , Stathopoulos Costas E.
Published: August 2016

The individual and interactive impacts of guar gum and glycerol on the pea‐starch‐based edible film characteristics were examined using three factors with three‐level Box–Behnken response surface design (BBD). The results showed that density and elongation at break were only significantly (p < 0.05) affected by pea starch and guar gum in a positive linear fashion. The quadratic regression coefficient of pea starch showed a significant effect (p < 0.05) on thickness, density, puncture force, water vapor permeability, and tensile strength, while tensile strength and Young's modulus were affected by the quadratic regression coefficient of glycerol and guar gum, respectively. The results were analyzed using Pareto analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the developed predictive equations for each response variable presented reliable and satisfactory fit with high coefficient of determination (R2) values (≥0.96). The optimized conditions with the goal of maximizing mechanical properties and minimizing water vapor permeability were 2.5 g pea starch, 0.3 g guar gum, and 25% w/w glycerol based on the dry film matter in 100 mL of distilled water.
Get your campus ready for Generation Z
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2016

WASHINGTON, D.C. — If you've noticed a shift in your traditional‐aged students' behaviors and expectations in the last couple of years, that's because you're seeing Generation Z arrive on campus. The first students from this generation started as freshmen in 2013, said Corey Seemiller, assistant professor of leadership studies at Wright State University; and Meghan Grace, new member orientation director for Sigma Phi Epsilon. Seemiller and Grace, the authors of Generation Z Goes to College, spoke at the Association of American Colleges and Universities annual meeting.
Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGAM) in the fetus: retrospective analysis of perinatal prognostic indicators in a two‐center series of 49 cases
Authors: Paladini D. , Deloison B. , Rossi A. , Chalouhi G. E. , Gandolfo C. , Sonigo P. , Buratti S. , Millischer A. E. , Tuo G. , Ville Y. , Pistorio A. , Cama A. , Salomon L. J.
Published: August 2016

Objective

Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGAM) is a rare fetal anomaly, the neurological outcome of which can be good with appropriate perinatal management. However, most fetal series are too small to allow reliable statistical assessment of potential prognostic indicators. Our aim was to assess, in a two‐center series of 49 cases, the prognostic value of several prenatal variables, in order to identify possible prenatal indicators of poor outcome, in terms of mortality and cerebral disability.

Methods

This was a retrospective study involving 49 cases of VGAM diagnosed prenatally and managed at two centers over a 17‐year period (1999–2015). All cases had undergone detailed prenatal cerebral and cardiac assessment by grayscale ultrasound, color and pulsed‐wave Doppler and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Ultrasound and MRI examination reports and images were reviewed and outcome information was obtained from medical reports. Volume of the VGAM (on ultrasound and MRI) was calculated and development of straight‐sinus dilatation, ventriculomegaly and other major brain abnormalities was noted. Cardiothoracic ratio, tricuspid regurgitation and reversed blood flow across the aortic isthmus were evaluated on fetal echocardiography. Major brain lesions were considered by definition to be associated with poor outcome in all cases. Pregnancy and fetoneonatal outcome were known in all cases. Fetoneonatal outcome and brain damage were considered as dependent variables in the statistical evaluation. Poor outcome was defined as death, late termination of pregnancy due to association with related severe brain anomalies or severe neurological impairment.

Results

At a mean follow‐up time of 20 (range, 0–72) months, 36.7% of the whole series and 52.9% of the cases which did not undergo late termination were alive and free of adverse sequelae. Five (10.2%) cases showed progression of the lesion between diagnosis and delivery. On univariate analysis, dilatation of the straight sinus, VGAM volume ≥ 20 000 mm3 and tricuspid regurgitation were all significantly related to poor outcome. However, on logistic regression analysis, the only variables associated significantly with poor outcome were tricuspid regurgitation and, to a lesser extent, VGAM volume ≥ 20 000 mm3. The former was also the only variable associated with brain damage.

Conclusions

Major brain lesions, tricuspid regurgitation and, to a lesser extent, VGAM volume ≥ 20 000 mm3 are the only prenatal variables associated with poor outcome in fetal VGAM. Prenatal multidisciplinary counseling should be based on these variables. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Clinical utility of non‐invasive prenatal testing in pregnancies with ultrasound anomalies
Authors: Beulen L. , Faas B. H. W. , Feenstra I. , van Vugt J. M. G. , Bekker M. N.
Published: August 2016

Objective

To evaluate the application of non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) as an alternative to invasive diagnostic prenatal testing in pregnancies with abnormal ultrasound findings.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 251 singleton and multiple pregnancies at high risk for fetal chromosomal abnormality based on findings at sonographic examination, in which NIPT was performed as a first‐tier genetic test. NIPT was performed by massively parallel sequencing of cell‐free DNA in maternal plasma, allowing genome‐wide detection of whole‐chromosome, as well as partial, autosomal aneuploidy. Sex chromosomes were not analyzed, according to the current protocol in Dutch laboratories.

Results

NIPT was performed at a median gestational age of 20 weeks, indicated by the presence of multiple congenital anomalies (n = 13), isolated structural anomalies (n = 57), increased nuchal translucency ≥ 3.5 mm (n = 58), soft markers (n = 73), growth restriction (n = 40) and other anomalies (n = 10). NIPT results were normal in 224 (89.2%) pregnancies, inconclusive in one (0.4%) and abnormal in 26 (10.4%). Most genetic aberrations detected by NIPT were common whole‐chromosome aneuploidies: trisomy 21 (n = 13), trisomy 18 (n = 6) and trisomy 13 (n = 3). Four further NIPT results were abnormal; one was suspected of being confined placental mosaicism and one was of maternal origin. In those with normal NIPT results, sonographic follow‐up or examination of the newborn indicated the need for diagnostic genetic testing in 33/224 (14.7%) pregnancies. Clinically relevant genetic aberrations were revealed in 7/224 (3.1%) cases, two of which were whole‐chromosome aneuploidies: trisomy 13 and monosomy X. As sex chromosomal aberrations are not included in NIPT analysis, the latter cannot be considered a false‐negative result. Other discordant findings were subchromosomal aberrations (< 20 megabases, n = 2) and monogenic aberrations (n = 3).

Conclusions

NIPT should not be recommended for genetic evaluation of the etiology of ultrasound anomalies, as both resolution and sensitivity, or negative predictive value, are inferior to those of conventional karyotyping and microarray analysis. Nonetheless, some pregnant women consider NIPT to be an acceptable alternative to invasive diagnostic testing. © 2016 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Cover Image, Volume 5, Issue 5
Authors: Azizoglu D. Berfin , Cleaver Ondine
Published: August 2016

The cover image, by Ondine Cleaver and D. Berfin Azizoglu, is based on the Focus Article Blood vessel crosstalk during organogenesis—focus on pancreas and endothelial cells, DOI: 10.1002/wdev.240. Image courtesy of Alethia Villasenor.

image
Indoor simulation of amplitude modulated wind turbine noise
Authors: Fernandez Felipe A. , Burdisso Ricardo A. , Arenas Jorge P.
Published: August 2016

Wind energy is the world's fastest‐growing renewable energy source; as a result, the number of people exposed to wind farm noise is increasing. Because of its broadband amplitude‐modulated characteristic, wind turbine noise (WTN) is more annoying than noise produced by other common community/industrial sources. As higher frequencies are attenuated by air absorption and building transmission, the noise from modern large wind farms is mainly below 1000 and 500 Hz for outdoor and indoor conditions, respectively. Many WTN complaints relate to indoor, nighttime conditions when background noise levels are lower. As recently reported, indoor noise has the potential to cause sleeping disorders. Studies on human response to amplitude modulated WTN have been mainly focused on the outdoors, where a large amount of measured data exists. This is not the case for indoors, where it is much harder to gather data. Hence, there is a need to understand the transmission of WTN into dwellings and to develop indoor annoyance metrics. In this article, we investigate the transmission of WTN into residential‐type structures. Using an outdoor WTN recording and structures with different properties/configurations, we made a series of computer simulations for indoor noise predictions and assessed the results employing several widely used metrics for WTN, for example, spectral content, modulation depth and overall levels. In general, the indoor noise levels are higher, and the average modulation depth is similar to those of outdoor recordings. In addition, there is a significant change in the spectral shape. These results could potentially explain indoor WTN annoyance. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A long‐term evaluation of biopsy darts and DNA to estimate cougar density: An agency‐citizen science collaboration
Authors: Beausoleil Richard A. , Clark Joseph D. , Maletzke Benjamin T.
Published: August 2016

Accurately estimating cougar (Puma concolor) density is usually based on long‐term research consisting of intensive capture and Global Positioning System collaring efforts and may cost hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Because wildlife agency budgets rarely accommodate this approach, most infer cougar density from published literature, rely on short‐term studies, or use hunter harvest data as a surrogate in their jurisdictions; all of which may limit accuracy and increase risk of management actions. In an effort to develop a more cost‐effective long‐term strategy, we evaluated a research approach using citizen scientists with trained hounds to tree cougars and collect tissue samples with biopsy darts. We then used the DNA to individually identify cougars and employed spatially explicit capture–recapture models to estimate cougar densities. Overall, 240 tissue samples were collected in northeastern Washington, USA, producing 166 genotypes (including recaptures and excluding dependent kittens) of 133 different cougars (8–25/yr) from 2003 to 2011. Mark–recapture analyses revealed a mean density of 2.2 cougars/100 km2 (95% CI = 1.1–4.3) and stable to decreasing population trends (β = −0.048, 95% CI = −0.106–0.011) over the 9 years of study, with an average annual harvest rate of 14% (range = 7–21%). The average annual cost per year for field sampling and genotyping was US$11,265 ($422.24/sample or $610.73/successfully genotyped sample). Our results demonstrated that long‐term biopsy sampling using citizen scientists can increase capture success and provide reliable cougar‐density information at a reasonable cost. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Factors affecting trapping success of northern bobwhites in the rolling plains of Texas
Authors: Ruzicka Rebekah E. , Rollins Dale , Lacoste Lloyd M. , Wester David B.
Published: August 2016

Trapping of northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) is commonly conducted for research purposes. We investigated the influence of weather, lunar phase, time of day, and season on bobwhite trapping success in the Rolling Plains ecoregion of Texas, USA, from 2009 to 2011. We trapped bobwhites in autumn (Oct–Nov) and spring (Feb–Mar) using walk‐in funnel traps baited with sorghum. We used a negative binomial regression to examine effects of temperature, humidity, wind speed, lunar phase, time of day, season, the number of traps set, and year on the number of bobwhites captured per trapping session. More bobwhites were trapped during the spring, in the evenings, and when temperatures were cooler. There was also some evidence for an influence of lunar phase on the number of bobwhites captured with greater counts during the new moon and third quarter. These variables may be important to consider for maximizing catch‐per‐unit‐effort, when using trapping data to estimate relative abundance, or when conducting mark–recapture studies. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Foraging at the wildland–urban interface decouples weather as a driver of recruitment for desert bighorn sheep
Authors: Longshore Kathleen , Lowrey Christopher , Cummings Patrick
Published: August 2016

A growing number of ungulate populations are living within or near the wildland–urban interface. When resources at the interface are of greater quality than that of adjacent natural habitat, wildlife can be attracted to these developed areas. Little is known about how use of the wildland–urban interface by wildlife may affect vital rates. Under natural conditions, recruitment by desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) correlates with variation in the timing and amount of rainfall that initiates and enhances growth of annual plant species. However, for populations that forage in developed areas, this relationship may become decoupled. In the River Mountains of Nevada, USA, desert bighorn sheep have been feeding in a municipal park at the wildland–urban interface since its establishment in 1985. Approximately one‐third of the population now uses the park during summer months when nutritional content of natural forage is low. We hypothesized that use of this municipal area, with its abundant vegetation and water resources, may have decoupled the previous relationship between precipitation and lamb recruitment. We assessed variables known to affect lamb recruitment before (1971–1986) and after (1987–2006) establishment of the park using linear regression models. Our top candidate model for the pre‐park period indicated that total November precipitation was the greatest driver of lamb recruitment in this population. After park establishment, this relationship became decoupled because lamb recruitment was no longer driven by weather variables. These results raise questions about the effects of decoupling drivers of population growth and maintaining natural populations near urban areas. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Cover Image, Volume 8, Issue 5
Authors: Cho Kwang‐Hyun , Joo Jae Il , Shin Dongkwan , Kim Dongsan , Park Sang‐Min
Published: August 2016

The cover image, by Kwang‐Hyun Cho et al., is based on the Opinion The reverse control of irreversible biological processes, 10.1002/wsbm.1346.

image
Abstract conjunctive partial deduction for the analysis and compilation of coroutines
Authors: Nys Vincent , De Schreye Danny
Published: August 2016

We provide an approach to formally analyze the computational behavior of coroutines in logic programs and to compile these computations into new programs, not requiring any support for coroutines. The problem was already studied near to 30 years ago, in an analysis and transformation technique called compiling control. However, this technique had a strong ad hoc flavor: the completeness of the analysis was not well understood and its symbolic evaluation was also rather ad hoc. We show how abstract conjunctive partial deduction, introduced by Leuschel in 2004, provides an appropriate setting to redefine compiling control. We define an abstract domain and all abstract operations required by abstract conjunctive partial deduction. We prove that these concepts satisfy all the correctness conditions imposed by the framework and therefore inherit its main correctness theorem. We also show that there exist more complex coroutining examples which do not fit within abstract conjunctive partial deduction and we propose some further extensions to include them.
Co-regulation of mRNA translation by TDP-43 and Fragile X Syndrome protein FMRP
Authors: Majumder Pritha , Chu Jen-Fei , Chatterjee Biswanath , Swamy Krishna B. S. , Shen Che-Kun James
Published: August 2016

For proper mammalian brain development and functioning, the translation of many neuronal mRNAs needs to be repressed without neuronal activity stimulations. We have discovered that the expression of a subclass of neuronal proteins essential for neurodevelopment and neuron plasticity is co-regulated at the translational level by TDP-43 and the Fragile X Syndrome protein FMRP. Using molecular, cellular and imaging approaches, we show that these two RNA-binding proteins (RBP) co-repress the translation initiation of Rac1, Map1b and GluR1 mRNAs, and consequently the hippocampal spinogenesis. The co-repression occurs through binding of TDP-43 to mRNA(s) at specific UG/GU sequences and recruitment of the inhibitory CYFIP1-FMRP complex by its glycine-rich domain. This novel regulatory scenario could be utilized to silence a significant portion of around 160 common target mRNAs of the two RBPs. The study establishes a functional/physical partnership between FMRP and TDP-43 that mechanistically links several neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
Characterization of Femoral Head Taper Corrosion Features Using a 22-Year Retrieval Database
Authors: Cartner Jacob , Aldinger Patrick , Li Chenxi , Collins David
Published: August 2016

Background

Modularity in total hip arthroplasty has been used for decades with great success, but new findings regarding corrosion artifacts have caused a resurgence in tapered junction research. Mechanically assisted crevice corrosion (MACC) is thought to be the mechanism by which corrosive attack occurs. Myriad multi-factorial variables are known to influence the susceptibility of a modular taper junction to MACC. Some of these variables are design and manufacture related and others can be controlled by the surgeon.

Questions/Purposes

This study was performed to assess a 22-year retrieval database to determine if correlations exist between severity of corrosion artifacts and head size, time in vivo, head offset, or head material. Secondarily, the agreement of visual and semi-quantitative scoring methods was assessed using the retrieved components.

Methods

A total of 210 femoral head tapers were scored and heads receiving high scores were measured to quantify material loss due to MACC.

Results

Increased head size and increased time in vivo did not correlate to higher corrosion scores. Contrarily, there were differences in corrosion scores based on femoral head offset and material. Deviations away from a neutral offset (where neutral is defined as the alignment of femoral head center and stem taper gage point) resulted in higher scores. Cobalt-chromium-molybdenum heads were associated with higher corrosion scores and higher material loss as compared to oxidized zirconium heads.

Conclusion

Reducing the moment arm at the head-neck junction and choosing a more inert material appears to provide greater resistance to corrosion.
Study of a distributed feedback diode laser based hygrometer combined Herriot-gas cell and waterless optical components
Authors: Wei Yubin , Chang Jun , Lian Jie , Wang Qiang , Wei Wei
Published: August 2016

A distributed feedback diode laser (DFB-DL) based hygrometer combined with a long-path-length Herriot gas cell and waterless optical components was proposed and investigated. The main function of this sensor was to simultaneously improve the measurement reliability and resolution. A comparison test between a 10-cm normal transmission-type gas cell and a 3-m Herriot gas cell was carried out to demonstrate the improvement. Reliability improvement was achieved by influence suppression of water vapor inside optical components (WVOC) through combined action of the Herriot gas cell and waterless optical components. The influence of WVOC was suppressed from 726 ppmv to 25 ppmv using the Herriot gas cell. Moreover, combined with waterless optical components, the influence of WVOC was further suppressed to no more than 4 ppmv. Resolution improvement from 11.7 ppmv to 0.32 ppmv was achieved mainly due to the application of the long-path-length Herriot gas cell. The results show that the proposed sensor has a good performance and considerable potential application in gas sensing, especially when probed gas possibly permeates into optical components.
The Honeymoon is Over: Occupational Relocation and Changes in Mental Health among United Methodist Clergy
Authors: Eagle David E. , Miles Andrew A. , Proeschold-Bell Rae Jean
Published: August 2016

In this study we examine how the process of relocation affects the mental health of United Methodist clergy and the extent to which relocation is associated with changes in clergy perception of the workplace environment and feelings of self-efficacy. We analyzed data from a longitudinal survey of 1375 clergy, one quarter of whom experienced a move between the baseline survey in 2008 and the follow-up survey 2 years later. Contrary to expectations, we find that mental distress decreased for those who recently moved compared to those who had moved 2 years prior. We also find strong evidence of a “honeymoon effect.” Recently relocated clergy report higher levels of self-efficacy and higher workplace morale compared to those who do not relocate. This study underscores the importance of examining the short and longer-term impact of moving on mental distress and presses scholars to consider the ways in which, under certain circumstances, relocation may improve mental health.
The variable coefficient thin obstacle problem: Optimal regularity and regularity of the regular free boundary
Authors: Shi Wenhui , Koch Herbert , Rüland Angkana
Published: August 2016

This article deals with the variable coefficient thin obstacle problem in

n + 1

dimensions. We address the regular free boundary regularity, the behavior of the solution close to the free boundary and the optimal regularity of the solution in a low regularity set-up.

We first discuss the case of zero obstacle and

W^{1,p}

metrics with

p \in (n + 1,\infty ]

. In this framework, we prove the

C^{1,\alpha }

regularity of the regular free boundary and derive the leading order asymptotic expansion of solutions at regular free boundary points. We further show the optimal

C^{1,\mathrm{\min }⁡\{1−\frac{n + 1}{p},\frac{1}{2}\}}

regularity of solutions. New ingredients include the use of the Reifenberg flatness of the regular free boundary, the construction of an (almost) optimal barrier function and the introduction of an appropriate splitting of the solution. Important insights depend on the consideration of various intrinsic geometric structures.

Based on variations of the arguments in [18] and the present article, we then also discuss the case of non-zero and interior thin obstacles. We obtain the optimal regularity of the solutions and the regularity of the regular free boundary for

W^{1,p}

metrics and

W^{2,p}

obstacles with

p \in (2(n + 1),\infty ]

.