bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospects of Colloidal Copper Chalcogenide Nanocrystals
Authors: van der Stam Ward , Berends Anne C. , de Mello Donega Celso
Published: December 2015

Over the past few years, colloidal copper chalcogenide nanocrystals (NCs) have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional Cd and Pb chalcogenide NCs. Owing to their wide size, shape, and composition tunability, Cu chalcogenide NCs hold great promise for several applications, such as photovoltaics, lighting and displays, and biomedical imaging. They also offer characteristics that are unparalleled by Cd and Pb chalcogenide NCs, such as plasmonic properties. Moreover, colloidal Cu chalcogenide NCs have low toxicity, potentially lower costs, and excellent colloidal stability. This makes them attractive materials for the large‐scale deployment of inexpensive, sustainable, and environmentally benign solution‐processed devices. Nevertheless, the synthesis of colloidal Cu chalcogenide NCs, especially that of ternary and quaternary compositions, has yet to reach the same level of mastery as that available for the prototypical Cd chalcogenide based NCs. This review provides a concise overview of this rapidly advancing field, sketching the state of the art and highlighting the key challenges. We discuss recent developments in the synthesis of size‐, shape‐, and composition‐controlled NCs of Cu chalcogenides, with emphasis in strategies to circumvent the limitations arising from the need to precisely balance the reactivities of multiple precursors in synthesizing ternary and quaternary compositions. In this respect, we show that topotactic cation‐exchange reactions are a promising alternative route to complex multinary Cu chalcogenide NCs and hetero‐NCs, which are not attainable by conventional routes. The properties and potential applications of Cu chalcogenide NCs and hetero‐NCs are also addressed.
Electric and Photoelectric Properties of 3,4–Ethylenedioxythiophene‐Functionalized n‐Si/PEDOT:PSS Junctions
Authors: Giesbrecht Patrick K. , Bruce Jared P. , Freund Michael S.
Published: December 2015

Organic/inorganic solid‐state junctions play a critical role in tandem artificial photosynthetic devices supported by conducting polymer membranes. Recent work with n‐Si/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) hybrid junctions has shown that the electrical behavior is dominated by the passivating groups present on the silicon surface. In this work, the photovoltaic behavior of n‐Si/PEDOT:PSS was investigated with methyl, thiophene, and 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) groups covalently attached to the Si(111) surface. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results demonstrated that complete monolayer coverage was achieved in 3 h and that the organic passivating groups were retained over two months of exposure to ambient conditions with minimal silicon oxidation. All surfaces investigated exhibited similar light‐limited photocurrents and bulk‐limited open‐circuit voltages, and thiophene produced a dramatic reduction of the fill factor attributed to the formation of trap states at the interface. Furthermore, shunt behavior observed near the power‐producing regions for the thiophene and EDOT surfaces is indicative of increased recombination events under forward bias and suggests that hole transport across the interface is enhanced. Thus, thiophene‐ and EDOT‐functionalized Si(111) offer similar stabilities and efficiencies to those of methylated surfaces as well as enhanced hole transport to the PEDOT:PSS interface from the n‐Si surfaces.
Preparation of CdS Nanoparticles from Thiosemicarbazone Complexes: Morphological Influence of Chlorido and Iodido Ligands
Authors: Pawar Amol S. , Masikane Siphamandla C. , Mlowe Sixberth , Garje Shivram S. , Revaprasadu Neerish
Published: December 2015

Cadmium(II) thiosemicarbazone complexes were prepared and characterized by elemental analysis and IR and NMR spectroscopy. The complexes were then investigated as potential single‐source precursors for the synthesis of oleylamine‐capped cadmium sulfide nanoparticles by solvothermal decomposition. The resulting nanomaterials were characterized by powder XRD, TEM, HRTEM, energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis, and UV/Vis spectroscopy. Peak broadening in the XRD patterns confirmed the presence of relatively small hexagonal CdS nanocrystals. The TEM studies evidenced that the chlorido precursors produced CdS nanostructures whose morphologies differed from those obtained from the iodido precursors. CdS nanoparticles in the form of cubes/spheres/rods and nanodendrite structures were obtained from CdCl2 and CdI2 thiosemicarbazone complexes, respectively. The UV/Vis spectra revealed that the as‐synthesized CdS nanoparticles exhibited a quantum effect due to their sharp band edges, which are blueshifted relative to those of bulk CdS. The size, morphology and shape of the nanoparticles were also shown to depend on the temperature of formation.
Photoactive Compounds Based on the Thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole Core and Their Application in Organic and Hybrid Photovoltaics
Authors: Reginato Gianna , Mordini Alessandro , Zani Lorenzo , Calamante Massimo , Dessì Alessio
Published: December 2015

Thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazoles (TzTzs) are fused bicyclic heteroaromatic compounds characterized by a rigid planar backbone and an extended π‐conjugated electronic structure. Although they have been known for many decades, interest in their properties and applications has begun to increase only recently, after their incorporation into a series of active materials used in the field of organic electronics. Recently, the thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole scaffold has been inserted into new photoactive compounds (both small‐molecule compounds and polymers) used to build bulk‐heterojunction organic solar cells (OSCs), as well as in new organic π dyes for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). This microreview focuses on the preparation of such TzTz‐containing materials and their application in the field of organic and hybrid photovoltaics.
Copper Acetate Catalyzed Regio­selective Synthesis of Substituted 1,2,3‐Triazoles: A Versatile Azide–Alk­ene Cycloaddition/Oxidation Approach
Authors: Rohilla Sandeep , Patel Shyam Sunder , Jain Nidhi
Published: December 2015

A copper acetate catalyzed oxidative cycloaddition reaction of benzyl and aryl azides with terminal and internal olefins that contain electron‐withdrawing groups (COOR, CONH2, CN, CHO, COR) has been developed. The reaction employs air as the oxidant and does not require any base or additives to afford 1,4‐disubstituted and 1,4,5‐trisubstituted 1,2,3‐triazoles in good to excellent yields with high regioselectivity.
Modular Catalytic Synthesis of 3‐Amino‐3‐aryl‐2‐oxindoles: Rh Catalysis with Isatin‐Derived N‐Boc‐Protected Ketimines
Authors: Marques Carolina S. , Burke Anthony J.
Published: December 2015

Chiral 3‐amino‐3‐aryloxindoles are important biologically active compounds. Using a catalytic modular approach, 31 new 3‐amino‐3‐aryl‐2‐oxindoles were prepared by a simple Rh‐catalysed addition of arylboronic acids to isatin‐derived N‐Boc‐protected ketimines (Boc = tert‐butoxycarbonyl). A low catalyst loading of 3 mol‐% was used, and the reaction showed a wide scope with high functional‐group compatibility, and gave good yields. We report the first catalytic enantioselective reactions with this substrate. Deprotection of the Boc group was easily accomplished in good yields.
Copper‐Catalyzed Borylation of Cyclic Sulfamidates: Access to Enantiomerically Pure (β‐and γ‐Amino­alkyl)boronic Esters
Authors: Ursinyova Nina , Bedford Robin B. , Gallagher Timothy
Published: December 2015

Cyclic sulfamidates undergo borylation under copper‐catalyzed conditions using B2pin2 to give enantiomerically (and diasteromerically) defined (aminoalkyl)boronic esters. External iodide is essential, but the intermediacy of simple alkyl iodides has been excluded; N‐sulfated intermediates are key in the borylation sequence. Based on stereochemical studies and trapping experiments, the involvement of carbon‐centered radicals under these copper‐catalyzed conditions appears likely.
Access to Atropisomerically En­riched Biaryls by the Coupling of Aryllithiums with Arynes under Control by Homochiral Oxazolines
Authors: Yalcouye Boubacar , Berthelot‐Bréhier Anaïs , Augros David , Panossian Armen , Choppin Sabine , Chessé Matthieu , Colobert Françoise , Leroux Frédéric R.
Published: December 2015

We report the preparation of axially stereoenriched biphenyls by the coupling of in situ generated aryllithiums and arynes using chiral oxazoline auxiliaries. The design of the aryne precursors, the choice of oxazoline and the reaction conditions were key to accessing the desired, highly substituted, atropisomerically enriched biarylic products. In one case, the two atropo‐diastereomers could be obtained in isomerically pure form by column chromatographic separation and their absolute configurations established by X‐ray crystallography. The stereoselectivity of the reaction seems to be governed by subtle parameters.
Electrochemical Characterization of Carbon Solidlike Paste Electrode Assembled Using Different Carbon Nanoparticles
Authors: Malha Seif Islam Rabie , Lahcen Abdellatif Ait , Arduini Fabiana , Ourari Ali , Amine Aziz
Published: December 2015

Solid like carbon paste electrodes (SCPEs) are built using different carbon materials namely carbon black N110, N220, N375, N772 and acetylene black. The electrochemical behavior of these electrodes and the influence of carbon black/paraffin ratio were studied and the results were discussed and compared to other electrodes prepared with graphite, mesoporous carbon and nanopowder carbon. Cyclic voltammetry, amperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were employed for their electrochemical and analytical characterizations. Amperometric measurements using N110, N220, N375 SCPEs with solid paraffin, showed a linear response of benzoquinone concentration with a detection limit of 75, 32 and 171 nM respectively.
Mutation analysis with random DNA identifiers (MARDI) catalogs Pig‐a mutations in heterogeneous pools of CD48‐deficient T cells derived from DMBA‐treated rats
Authors: Revollo Javier R. , Crabtree Nathaniel M. , Pearce Mason G. , Pacheco‐Martinez M. Monserrat , Dobrovolsky Vasily N.
Published: December 2015

Identification of mutations induced by xenotoxins is a common task in the field of genetic toxicology. Mutations are often detected by clonally expanding potential mutant cells and genotyping each viable clone by Sanger sequencing. Such a “clone‐by‐clone” approach requires significant time and effort, and sometimes is even impossible to implement. Alternative techniques for efficient mutation identification would greatly benefit both basic and regulatory genetic toxicology research. Here, we report the development of Mutation Analysis with Random DNA Identifiers (MARDI), a novel high‐fidelity Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) approach that circumvents clonal expansion and directly catalogs mutations in pools of mutant cells. MARDI uses oligonucleotides carrying Random DNA Identifiers (RDIs) to tag progenitor DNA molecules before PCR amplification, enabling clustering of descendant DNA molecules and eliminating NGS‐ and PCR‐induced sequencing artifacts. When applied to the Pig‐a cDNA analysis of heterogeneous pools of CD48‐deficient T cells derived from DMBA‐treated rats, MARDI detected nearly all Pig‐a mutations that were previously identified by conventional clone‐by‐clone analysis and discovered many additional ones consistent with DMBA exposure: mostly A to T transversions, with the mutated A located on the non‐transcribed DNA strand. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:114–124, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microwave Thermolysis and Lipid Recovery from Dried Microalgae Powder for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Ali Mehmood , Watson Ian A.
Published: December 2015

Third‐generation microalgae‐derived biodiesel has become increasingly important in recent years because of the depletion of fossil fuels and to reduce global dependence on oil from crop sources that may use or displace agricultural land for food crops. This work investigates the microwave treatment of dried microalgae powder to improve the oil extraction efficacy. This study has revealed that the lipid yield from Nannochloropsis oculata dried powder with microwave thermal treatment at 50 % microwave power (443 W) was greater than that with 100 % power (943 W). However, the efficacy of the cell wall destruction after 5 min microwave thermal treatment at full power was higher (70.0±2.30 %) than that at 50 % power (46.0±2.05 %). The greatest lipid yield at 943 W was achieved with 1 min treatment, 0.093±0.001 g g−1 of dry algae weight, with 17.3±1.19 % cell lysis at 42.2 °C. Initially, the lipid content yield increased from 0.082±0.002 to 0.093±0.001 g g−1 dry algae weight compared to the control sample (with no treatment applied). With the increase in temperature, the lipid yield was reduced because of oxidation at elevated temperatures. With the reduced power setting (443 W), the highest lipid yield of 0.149±0.003 g g−1 of dry algae weight was achieved after 5 min of treatment, with 46.0±2.05 % cell lysis at 58.5 °C. Statistically, the treatment time and temperature are correlated strongly to the extracted lipid yield. The kinetic study showed that the rate constant for lipid extraction with microwave pre‐treatment was higher at 443 W compared to the control sample and the higher microwave power level. The extracted lipid was analysed and found to have physical and chemical properties that were comparable to those of vegetable seed oils and they were suitable for use as a feedstock to produce biodiesel.
Coupled horizontal–vertical stability of bearings under dynamic loading
Authors: Vemuru Venkata S. M. , Nagarajaiah Satish , Mosqueda Gilberto
Published: December 2015

In this study, the coupled horizontal–vertical behavior of elastomeric bearings subjected to dynamic loading is studied in detail. Under extreme dynamic loading, elastomeric bearings exhibit unstable behavior and an instantaneous loss of horizontal stiffness that is recoverable. Building on an earlier study where the authors developed an analytical model for the horizontal behavior of bearings under dynamic loads, in this study, a new analytical model for the coupled horizontal–vertical behavior of the bearings is developed. The coupled behavior of the bearing is first studied for quasi‐static loading, and later, the behavior of the bearings under dynamic loading is studied. A clear distinction is made between different types of deformation the bearing undergoes in the vertical direction. Based on experimental results, it is observed that the behavior of the bearings under dynamic loading differs markedly from that observed under static loading. A new analytical model is proposed that can account for the coupled horizontal–vertical behavior of the bearings under dynamic loading. The proposed analytical model for predicting the post‐stability vertical behavior of the bearings is verified using experimental results. The model proposed is found to successfully predict the coupled horizontal–vertical behavior of elastomeric bearings. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantification of seismic potential failure modes in concrete dams
Authors: Hariri‐Ardebili Mohammad Amin , Saouma Victor. E. , Porter Keith A.
Published: December 2015

A comprehensive framework for potential failure modes (PFM) identification and quantification of concrete dams subjected to seismic excitation is presented. A quantifiable indicator of PFM is presented in the context of both linear and nonlinear analyses. As an illustrative example, a thin arch dam subjected to a set of ground motions at different seismic intensity levels is investigated and corresponding PFM quantified.

An outcome of this analysis is the probabilistic‐based correlation between linear and nonlinear analyses and identification of the optimal intensity measure parameter. This study, is an adaptation and extension of well‐accepted procedures defined by the performance‐based earthquake engineering paradigm in buildings. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene fusions in soft tissue tumors: Recurrent and overlapping pathogenetic themes
Authors: Mertens Fredrik , Antonescu Cristina R. , Mitelman Felix
Published: December 2015

Gene fusions have been described in approximately one‐third of soft tissue tumors (STT); of the 142 different fusions that have been reported, more than half are recurrent in the same histologic subtype. These gene fusions constitute pivotal driver mutations, and detailed studies of their cellular effects have provided important knowledge about pathogenetic mechanisms in STT. Furthermore, most fusions are strongly associated with a particular histotype, serving as ideal molecular diagnostic markers. In recent years, it has also become apparent that some chimeric proteins, directly or indirectly, constitute excellent treatment targets, making the detection of gene fusions in STT ever more important. Indeed, pharmacological treatment of STT displaying fusions that activate protein kinases, such as ALK and ROS1, or growth factors, such as PDGFB, is already in clinical use. However, the vast majority (52/78) of recurrent gene fusions create structurally altered and/or deregulated transcription factors, and a small but growing subset develops through rearranged chromatin regulators. The present review provides an overview of the spectrum of currently recognized gene fusions in STT, and, on the basis of the protein class involved, the mechanisms by which they exert their oncogenic effect are discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dating Ancient Field Walls in Karst Landscapes Using Differential Bedrock Lowering
Authors: Jones Carleton
Published: December 2015

While karst environments present methodological and interpretive challenges to archaeologists, they also provide some unique opportunities. One of these opportunities is the ability to date field walls by measuring divergent rates of bedrock dissolution underneath and adjacent to ancient walls. Field walls are traditionally difficult to date, either by using morphological typologies or through the association of diagnostic or chronometric materials. The method presented here, therefore, represents a valuable tool for archaeologists working in karst landscapes. The methodology is described along with a discussion of potential problems, drawing in particular upon evidence from the karstic terrain of the Burren in western Ireland. The methodology is then applied to a group of field walls on the Burren, which are shown to date to the Chalcolithic ‐ Early Bronze Age.
Actin‐like 6A predicts poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma and promotes metastasis and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition
Authors: Xiao Shuai , Chang Rui‐Min , Yang Ming‐Yang , Lei Xiong , Liu Xiao , Gao Wen‐Bin , Xiao Jing‐Lei , Yang Lian‐Yue
Published: December 2015

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal cancers worldwide because of metastasis. Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is widely considered to be crucial to the invasion‐metastasis cascade during cancer progression. Actin‐like 6A (ACTL6A) is initially verified important for cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. In this study, we find that ACTL6A plays an essential role in metastasis and EMT of HCC. ACTL6A expression is up‐regulated in HCC cells and tissues. A high level of ACTL6A in HCCs is correlated with aggressive clinicopathological features and is an independent poor prognostic factor for overall and disease‐free survival of HCC patients. Ectopic expression of ACTL6A markedly promotes HCC cells migration, invasion, as well as EMT in vitro and promotes tumor growth and metastasis in the mouse xenograft model. Opposite results are observed when ACTL6A is knocked down. Mechanistically, ACTL6A promotes metastasis and EMT through activating Notch signaling. ACTL6A knockdown has the equal blockage effect as the Notch signaling inhibitor, N‐[N‐(3,5‐difluorophenacetyl)‐L‐alanyl]‐S‐phenylglycine t‐butylester, in HCC cells. Further studies indicate that ACTL6A might manipulate SRY (sex determining region Y)‐box 2 (SOX2) expression and then activate Notch1 signaling. Conclusions: ACTL6A promotes metastasis and EMT by SOX2/Notch1 signaling, indicating a prognostic biomarker candidate and a potential therapeutic target for HCC. (Hepatology 2016;63:1256–1271)
Studies in Convergence? Post‐Crisis Effects on Corporate Rescue and the Influence of Social Policy: The EU and the USA
Authors: Gant Jennifer L. L.
Published: December 2015

The financial crisis and the sovereign debt crisis that it precipitated in a number of peripheral EU Member States heralded massive changes in insolvency, corporate rescue and employment protection policies. The US and the EU both suffered greatly in the wake of the crisis, but their recoveries have occurred along very different tracks. The US has managed to regain much of its position in terms of relative growth and the UK has outpaced the recoveries of those European countries that are members of the European Monetary Union. The purpose of this treatise is to explore the context of the 2007–2008 financial crisis in the US and in the EU and its impact on legal reform in corporate rescue and restructuring as well as those aspects of social policy implicated within insolvency systems (notably collective redundancy and transfers of undertakings). It will also consider whether or not the corporate rescue and employee protection systems can be seen to be converging, and whether, in view of the different socio‐economic, political and cultural aspects of the US and the EU, such convergence might be beneficial. Copyright © 2015 INSOL International and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dehydroepiandrosterone Stimulation of Osteoblastogenesis in Human MSCs Requires IGF‐I Signaling
Authors: Liang Xiaonan , Glowacki Julie , Hahne Jochen , Xie Li , LeBoff Meryl S. , Zhou Shuanhu
Published: December 2015

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an adrenal steroid that circulates in high concentrations in humans in its sulfated form, DHEAS. Clinical and epidemiological studies suggested that low DHEAS levels may be associated with low bone mass. Previously, we and others showed that the effects of DHEA on the skeleton may be conferred partly by their ability to inhibit skeletal catabolic agents, for example, bone resorptive cytokine IL‐6. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the anabolic effects of DHEA on osteoblastogenesis require IGF‐I signaling pathways. Using both primary cultures and a cell line of human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), we show that DHEA and other steroids stimulate osteoblastogenesis as shown by alkaline phosphatase activity and osteoblast gene induction. The stimulation by DHEA on both IGF‐I gene expression and osteoblastogenesis in hMSCs requires IGF‐I receptor, PI3K, p38 MAPK, or p42/44 MAPK signaling pathways. This study adds information to indicate that DHEA may be useful for treating bone diseases through its inhibition of skeletal catabolic IL‐6 and stimulation of anabolic IGF‐I‐mediated mechanisms. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1769–1774, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced phase‐sensitive SSFP reconstruction for fat‐water separation in phased‐array acquisitions
Authors: Yilmaz Ozgur , Saritas Emine Ulku , Çukur Tolga
Published: December 2015

Purpose

To propose and assess a method to improve the reliability of phase‐sensitive fat–water separation for phased‐array balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) acquisitions. Phase‐sensitive steady‐state free precession (PS‐SSFP) is an efficient fat–water separation technique that detects the phase difference between neighboring bands in the bSSFP magnetization profile. However, large spatial variations in the sensitivity profiles of phased‐array coils can lead to noisy phase estimates away from the coil centers, compromising tissue classification.

Materials and Methods

We first perform region‐growing phase correction in individual coil images via unsupervised selection of a fat‐voxel seed near the peak of each coil's sensitivity profile. We then use an optimal linear combination of phase‐corrected images to segregate fat and water signals. The proposed method was demonstrated on noncontrast‐enhanced SSFP angiograms of the thigh, lower leg, and foot acquired at 1.5T using an 8‐channel coil. Individual coil PS‐SSFP with a common seed selection for all coils, individual coil PS‐SSFP with coil‐wise seed selection, PS‐SSFP after coil combination, and IDEAL reconstructions were also performed. Water images reconstructed via PS‐SSFP methods were compared in terms of the level of fat suppression and the similarity to reference IDEAL images (signed‐rank test).

Results

While tissue misclassification was broadly evident across regular PS‐SSFP images, the proposed method achieved significantly higher levels of fat suppression (P < 0.005) and increased similarity to reference IDEAL images (P < 0.005).

Conclusion

The proposed method enhances fat–water separation in phased‐array acquisitions by producing improved phase estimates across the imaging volume. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:148–157.
Attenuation of cartilage degeneration by calcitonin gene‐related paptide receptor antagonist via inhibition of subchondral bone sclerosis in osteoarthritis mice
Authors: Nakasa Tomoyuki , Ishikawa Masakazu , Takada Tsuyoshi , Miyaki Shigeru , Ochi Mitsuo
Published: December 2015

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive joint disorder which affects cartilage and subchondral bone. Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) plays a role in bone metabolism. The purpose of this study is to examine the therapeutic effect of the blocking CGRP on OA progression in mice by inhibition of subchondral bone sclerosis. OA was induced by the resection of the medial meniscotibial ligament of the knee in C57/BL6 mice. An intraperitoneal injection of the CGRP receptor antagonist (BIBN4096) was administered after OA surgery. At 1, 4, and 8 weeks after injection, histological analysis were performed. In vitro, the effect of CGRP and BIBN4096 on osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis was analyzed. BIBN4096 could prevent cartilage degeneration and subchondral bone sclerosis. The OARSI score in the BIBN4096 group was significantly lower than that in the control. In vitro, CGRP up regulated osteocalcin expression, but its expression was down regulated by BIBN4096. CGRP inhibited osteoclastogenesis of raw 267.4 cells, but its effect was reduced by the addition of BIBN4096.The current study showed that subchondral bone sclerosis and increasing expression of CGRP occurs in the early phase of OA in relation to cartilage degeneration, and that BIBN4096 could effectively attenuate OA progression. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1177–1184, 2016.
Relative motion between the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon and paratenon in zone V increases with wrist flexion angle
Authors: Kociolek Aaron M. , Keir Peter J.
Published: December 2015

Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by non‐inflammatory fibrosis of the subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT), a paratenon‐like structure inside the carpal tunnel. This pathology suggests repetitive and/or excessive shear forces are involved in injury development. We assessed relative motion between the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon and adjacent paratenon in Zone V using colour Doppler imaging as 16 healthy participants completed three long finger movements (metacarpophalangeal joint flexion, proximal and distal interphalangeal joint flexion, full finger flexion) in three wrist postures (30° extension, 0°, 30° flexion). While the type of finger movement did not affect tendon‐paratenon relative motion, we found a significant main effect of wrist posture (p < 0.001). Relative displacement between the FDS tendon and paratenon (as a percentage of tendon displacement) increased from 27.2% (95%CI = 24.8–29.5%) in 30° wrist extension to 39.9% (95%CI = 37.3–42.4%) in 30° wrist flexion. Optical motion capture confirmed that wrist posture did not affect metacarpophalangeal joint range of motion (p = 0.265) or proximal interphalangeal joint range of motion (p = 0.582). These results indicate that relative motion increased due to paratenon strain when the wrist was flexed. While our findings agree with previous cadaveric research in wrist flexion, we found that relative displacement decreased in 30° wrist extension (compared to 0°). These results differ from cadaveric research, possibly due to challenges maintaining anatomic fidelity of the viscoelastic paratenon tissue in vitro. Overall, our study suggests a greater susceptibility to shear injury during repetitive finger movements, particularly when the wrist is flexed. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1248–1255, 2016.
Antagonism of the Met5‐enkephalin‐opioid growth factor receptor‐signaling axis promotes MSC to differentiate into osteoblasts
Authors: Thakur Nikhil A. , DeBoyace Sean D. , Margulies Bryan S.
Published: December 2015

Chronic opioid therapy is associated with bone loss. This led us to hypothesize that the opioid antagonists, that include naloxone, would stimulate bone formation by regulating MSC differentiation. The opioid growth factor receptor (OGFR) is a non‐canonical opioid receptor that binds naloxone with high affinity whereas the native opioid growth factor, met5‐enkephalin (met5), binds both the OGFR and the canonical delta opioid receptor (OPRD). Naloxone and an shRNA OGFR lentivirus were employed to disrupt the OGFR‐signaling axis in cultured MSC. In parallel, naloxone was administered to bone marrow using a mouse unicortical defect model. OPRD, OGFR, and the met5‐ligand were highly expressed in MSC and osteoblasts. A pulse‐dose of naloxone increased mineral formation in MSC cultures in contrast to MSC treated with continuous naloxone or OGFR deficient MSC. Importantly, SMAD1 and SMAD8/9 expression increased after a pulse dose of naloxone whereas SMAD1, SMAD7, and ID1 were increased in the OGFR deficient MSC. Inhibited OGFR signaling decreased proliferation and increased p21 expression. The addition of naloxone to the unicortical defect resulted in increased bone formation within the defect. Our data suggest that novel mechanism through which signaling through the OGFR regulates osteogenesis via negative regulation of SMAD1 and p21. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1195–1205, 2016.
High‐throughput screening of measuring conditions for an optimized SERS detection
Authors: Kämmer Evelyn , Olschewski Konstanze , Rösch Petra , Weber Karina , Cialla‐May Dana , Popp Jürgen
Published: December 2015

Surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a perfect method for analytical applications because of delivering specific molecular information combined with a high sensitivity when applying rational design metallic nanostructures. However, the pH level and the activation of ctheir mutual influence. Besidesolloidal SERS substrates influence the sensitivity and comparability of the SERS analysis. In this study, a routine is presented that allows for a fast and effective recognition of the influences of pH and activating agents on the SERS signal of an analyte molecule. To do so, a citrate‐reduced Ag colloid served as SERS substrate. The influence of four activating agents as well as five pH levels on the SERS signal of the model analyte melamine was investigated. Here, not only the influence of the anion but also that of the cation of the activating agents was examined. In addition to different signal intensities, a shift of the dominant melamine signal occurred depending on the adjusted conditions. At pH 11, the lowest intensities of the SERS signal from the model analyte melamine were detected. The maximal enhancement of the ring breathing II mode in combination with this specific colloid was achieved using sodium chloride as an activating agent at a pH level of 5. Thus, the study introduces a routine, which can be applied on various analyte molecules to optimize the SERS intensity by changing the activation agent as well as the pH. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Carbapenem‐resistant A cinetobacter baumannii acquired before liver transplantation: Impact on recipient outcomes
Authors: Freire Maristela Pinheiro , Pierrotti Ligia Câmera , Oshiro Isabel Cristina Villela Soares , Bonazzi Patrícia Rodrigues , Oliveira Larissa Marques de , Machado Anna Silva , Van Der Heijden Inneke Marie , Rossi Flavia , Costa Silvia Figueiredo , D'Albuquerque Luiz Augusto Carneiro , Abdala Edson
Published: December 2015

Infection with carbapenem‐resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) after liver transplantation (LT) is associated with high mortality. This study aimed to identify risk factors for post‐LT CRAB infection, as well as to evaluate the impact of pre‐LT CRAB acquisition on the incidence of post‐LT CRAB infection. This was a prospective cohort study of all patients undergoing LT at our facility between October 2009 and October 2011. Surveillance cultures (SCs) were collected immediately before LT and weekly thereafter, until discharge. We analyzed 196 patients who were submitted to 222 LTs. CRAB was identified in 105 (53.6%); 24 (22.9%) of these patients were found to have acquired CRAB before LT, and 85 (81.0%) tested positive on SCs. Post‐LT CRAB infection occurred in 56 (28.6%), the most common site being the surgical wound. Multivariate analysis showed that the risk factors for developing CRAB infection were prolonged cold ischemia, post‐LT dialysis, LT due to fulminant hepatitis, and pre‐LT CRAB acquisition with pre‐LT CRAB acquisition showing a considerable trend toward significance (P = 0.06). Among the recipients with CRAB infection, 60‐day mortality was 46.4%, significantly higher than among those without (P < 0.001). Mortality risk factors were post‐LT infection with multidrug‐resistant bacteria, LT performed because of fulminant hepatitis, retransplantation, prolonged cold ischemia, longer LT surgical time, and pre‐LT CRAB acquisition, the last showing a trend toward significance (P = 0.08). In conclusion, pre‐LT CRAB acquisition appears to increase the risk of post‐LT CRAB infection, which has a negative impact on recipient survival. Liver Transplantation 22 615‐626 2016 AASLD.
Development and Validation of an Artificial Mechanical Skin Model for the Study of Interactions between Skin and Microneedles
Authors: Ranamukhaarachchi Sahan A. , Schneider Thomas , Lehnert Sarah , Sprenger Lisa , Campbell Jonathon R. , Mansoor Iman , Lai Jacqueline C. Y. , Rai Kimit , Dutz Jan , Häfeli Urs O. , Stoeber Boris
Published: December 2015

Microneedles are small needle‐like structures that are almost invisible to the naked eye. They have an immense potential to serve as a valuable tool in many medical applications, such as painless vaccination. Microneedles work by breaking through the stratum corneum, the outermost barrier layer of the skin, and providing a direct path for drug delivery into the skin. A lot of research has been presented over the past two decades on the applications of microneedles, yet the fundamental mechanism of how they interact, pressure, and penetrate the skin in its native state is worth examining further. As such, a major difficulty with understanding the mechanism of microneedle–skin interaction is the lack of an artificial mechanical human skin model to use as a standardized substrate. In this research news, the development of an artificial mechanical skin model based on a thorough mechanical study of fresh human and porcine skin samples is presented. The artificial mechanical skin model can be used to study the mechanical interactions between microneedles and skin, but not diffusion of molecules across skin. This model can assist in improving the performance of microneedles by enhancing the reproducibility of microneedle depth insertions for optimal drug delivery and biosensing.

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The Ezh2 polycomb group protein drives an aggressive phenotype in melanoma cancer stem cells and is a target of diet derived sulforaphane
Authors: Fisher Matthew L. , Adhikary Gautam , Grun Dan , Kaetzel David M. , Eckert Richard L.
Published: December 2015

Melanoma is a metastatic cancer associated with poor survival. Here, we study a subpopulation of melanoma cancer cells displaying melanoma cancer stem cell (MCS cells) properties including elevated expression of stem cell markers, increased ability to survive as spheroids, and enhanced cell migration and invasion. We show that the Ezh2 stem cell survival protein is enriched in MCS cells and that Ezh2 knockdown or treatment with small molecule Ezh2 inhibitors, GSK126 or EPZ‐6438, reduces Ezh2 activity. This reduction is associated with a reduced MCS cell spheroid formation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, the diet‐derived cancer prevention agent, sulforaphane (SFN), suppresses MCS cell survival and this is associated with loss of Ezh2. Forced expression of Ezh2 partially reverses SFN suppression of MCS cell spheroid formation, migration, and invasion. A375 melanoma cell‐derived MCS cells form rapidly growing tumors in immune‐compromised mice and SFN treatment of these tumors reduces tumor growth and this is associated with reduced Ezh2 level and H3K27me3 formation, reduced matrix metalloproteinase expression, increased TIMP3 expression and increased apoptosis. These studies identify Ezh2 as a MCS cell marker and cancer stem cell prevention target, and suggest that SFN acts to reduce melanoma tumor formation via a mechanism that includes suppression of Ezh2 function. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fuzzy games for a general Bayesian abstract fuzzy economy model of product measurable spaces
Authors: Saipara Plern , Kumam Poom
Published: December 2015

In this paper, we introduce a general Bayesian abstract fuzzy economy model of product measurable spaces, and we prove the existence of Bayesian fuzzy equilibrium for this model. Our results extend and improve the corresponding recent results announced by Patriche and many authors from the literature. It captures the idea that the uncertainties characterize the individual feature of the decisions of the agents involved in different economic activities. In this paper, the uncertainties can be described by using random fuzzy mappings. Further attention is needed for the study of applications of the established result in the game theory and the fuzzy economic field.Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ICS teaching module: Detrusor leak point pressures in patients with relevant neurological abnormalities
Authors: Tarcan Tufan , Demirkesen Oktay , Plata Mauricio , Castro‐Diaz David
Published: December 2015

Aims

This manuscript serves as a scientific background review; the evidence base, for the presentation made available on ICS website to summarize current knowledge and recommendations for the measurement and use of the DLPP.

Methods

This review has been prepared by a Working Group of The ICS Urodynamics Committee. The methodology used included comprehensive literature review, consensus formation by the members of the Working Group, and review by members of the ICS Urodynamics Committee core panel.

Results

DLPP has been recommended and utilized in the urodynamic evaluation of N‐LUTD for many years, but it lacks standardization and there are numerous pitfalls in its measurement. EFP and LPP associated with N‐DO are frequently and mistakenly reported as DLPP. The information that high DLPP predicts UUTD originates from retrospective cohort studies of a low level of evidence (LoE 3). Existing data confirm that patients with lower DLPP do better than patients with higher DLPP in terms of their upper urinary tract. However, there appears to be no reliable ‘safe/no safe’ cut‐off for DLPP since there are other urodynamic factors that influence UUTD such as bladder compliance and more.

Conclusion

Although higher DLPP is associated with a greater risk of UUTD, there is no reliable cut‐off level to undoubtedly discriminate the risky group, including the traditional cut‐off level of 40 cm H2O. Therefore, DLPP should not be used as the sole urodynamic parameter. Future research should be directed to standardization of the technique and better classification of DLPP cut‐offs in N‐LUTD. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:259–262, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Validity, reliability, and responsiveness of the ICIQ‐UI SF and ICIQ‐LUTSqol in the Malaysian population
Authors: Lim Renly , Liong Men Long , Lau Yong Khee , Yuen Kah Hay
Published: December 2015

Aims

To enable the use of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ‐UI SF) and ICIQ‐Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Quality of Life (ICIQ‐LUTSqol) in Southeast Asia, we translated and subsequently evaluated their validity (content and discriminant validity), reliability (internal consistency and test–retest reliability), and responsiveness in female patients with stress urinary incontinence.

Methods

Permission was obtained to translate the English versions into Malay and subsequently validate them, and to validate the existing Chinese versions. The translated questionnaires were taken for pilot testing. Validation was carried out for the face/content and discriminant validity. Reliability was assessed for test–retest and internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient respectively. The responsiveness was calculated via effect size and standardized response mean.

Results

Ten patients were recruited for the pilot testing. The English and Chinese versions had “substantial” or “almost perfect” agreement as measured by weighted Kappa. 284 participants (139 patients with stress urinary incontinence and 145 healthy volunteers) were included in the subsequent phases. The ICIQ‐UI SF and ICIQ‐LUTSqol had good discriminant validity. The ICIQ‐UI SF had moderate internal consistency although the ICIQ‐LUTSqol had good internal consistency. Both questionnaires had high test–retest reliability. Responsiveness was established with a moderate to large effect size and a standardized response mean.

Conclusions

The English, Chinese, and Malay versions each proved to be valid and reliable in our Malaysian population, thereby enabling more cross‐cultural research in this region. Neurourol. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:438–442, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An optimization framework to maximize signal‐to‐noise ratio in simultaneous multi‐slice body imaging
Authors: Stemkens Bjorn , Sbrizzi Alessandro , Andreychenko Anna A. , Crijns Sjoerd P. M. , Lagendijk Jan J. W. , van den Berg Cornelis A. T. , Tijssen Rob H. N.
Published: December 2015

Parallel imaging is essential for the acceleration of abdominal and pelvic 2D multi‐slice imaging, in order to reduce scan time and mitigate motion artifacts. Controlled Aliasing In Parallel Imaging Results IN Higher Acceleration (CAIPIRINHA) accelerated imaging has been shown to increase the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) significantly compared with in‐plane parallel imaging with similar acceleration. We hypothesize that for CAIPIRINHA‐accelerated abdominal imaging the consistency of image quality and SNR is more difficult to achieve due to the subject‐specific coil sensitivity profiles, caused by (1) flexible coil placement; (2) variations in anatomy; and (3) variations in scan coverage along the superior–inferior direction. To test this, a mathematical framework is introduced that calculates the (retained) SNR for in‐plane and simultaneous multi‐slice (SMS)‐accelerated acquisitions. Moreover, this framework was used to optimize the sampling pattern by maximizing the local SNR within a region of interest (ROI) through non‐linear, RF‐induced CAIPIRINHA slice shifts. The framework was evaluated on 14 healthy subjects and the optimized sampling pattern was compared with in‐plane acceleration and CAIPIRINHA acceleration with linear slice shifts, which are primarily used in brain imaging. We demonstrate that the field of view (FOV) in the superior–inferior direction, the coil positioning and the individual anatomy have a large impact on the image SNR (changes up to 50% for varying coil positions and 40% differences between subjects) and image artifacts for simultaneous multi‐slice acceleration. Consequently, sampling patterns have to be optimized for acquisitions employing different FOVs and ideally on an individual basis. Optimization of the sampling pattern, which exploits non‐linear shifts between slices, showed a considerable SNR increase (10–30%) for higher acceleration factors. The framework outlined in this article can be used to optimize sampling patterns for a broad range of accelerated body acquisitions on an individual basis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inter‐function anomaly analysis for correct SDN/NFV deployment
Authors: Basile Cataldo , Canavese Daniele , Lioy Antonio , Pitscheider Christian , Valenza Fulvio
Published: December 2015

Implementing the security of a network consists in individually configuring several network functions. Network functions are configured by means of a policy composed of a set of rules, but their actual behaviour is influenced by the other policies implemented by all the other network functions around them. This paper proposes a formal model that can be used to detect inter‐function anomalies, which are defined as the interferences between two or more functions deployed in the same network. We have proved with experiments that the proposed model is fast and scalable. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychosocial Follow‐Up in Survivorship as a Standard of Care in Pediatric Oncology
Authors: Lown E. Anne , Phillips Farya , Schwartz Lisa A. , Rosenberg Abby R. , Jones Barbara
Published: December 2015

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) have a high risk of medical late effects following cancer therapy. Psychosocial late effects are less often recognized. Many CCS do not receive long‐term follow‐up (LTFU) care, and those who do are rarely screened for psychosocial late effects. An interdisciplinary team conducted a systematic review of qualitative and quantitative studies to assess social, educational, vocational, psychological, and behavioral outcomes along with factors related to receipt of LTFU care. We propose that psychosocial screening be considered a standard of care in long‐term follow‐up care and that education be provided to promote the use LTFU care starting early in the treatment trajectory.
Procedural Preparation and Support as a Standard of Care in Pediatric Oncology
Authors: Flowers Stacy R. , Birnie Kathryn A.
Published: December 2015

Youth with cancer undergo many repeated and invasive medical procedures that are often painful and highly distressing. A systematic review of published research since 1995 identified 65 papers (11 review articles and 54 empirical studies) that investigated preparatory information and psychological interventions for a variety of medical procedures in pediatric cancer. Distraction, combined cognitive–behavioral strategies, and hypnosis were identified as effective for reducing child pain and increasing child coping. Low‐ to high‐quality evidence informed strong recommendations for all youth with cancer to receive developmentally appropriate preparatory information and psychological intervention for invasive medical procedures.
Supporting Siblings as a Standard of Care in Pediatric Oncology
Authors: Gerhardt Cynthia A. , Lehmann Vicky , Long Kristin A. , Alderfer Melissa A.
Published: December 2015

In this study, evidence is provided for supporting siblings as a standard of care in pediatric oncology. Using Medline, PsycInfo, and CINAHL, a systematic search of articles published over the past two decades about siblings of children with cancer was conducted. A total of 125 articles, which were primarily descriptive studies, were evaluated by the four investigators using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. There is moderate‐quality evidence, as well as support from community stakeholders, to justify a strong recommendation that siblings of children with cancer should be provided with psychosocial services and that parents and professionals are advised about how to meet siblings’ needs.