bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endomicroscopic optical coherence tomography for cellular resolution imaging of gastrointestinal tracts
Authors: Luo Yuemei , Cui Dongyao , Yu Xiaojun , Bo En , Wang Xianghong , Wang Nanshuo , Braganza Cilwyn S. , Chen Shufen , Liu Xinyu , Xiong Qiaozhou , Chen Si , Chen Shi , Liu Linbo
Published: August 2017

Our ability to detect neoplastic changes in gastrointestinal (GI) tracts is limited by the lack of an endomicroscopic imaging tool that provides cellular‐level structural details of GI mucosa over a large tissue area. In this article, we report a fiber‐optic‐based micro‐optical coherence tomography (μOCT) system and demonstrate its capability to acquire cellular‐level details of GI tissue through circumferential scanning. The system achieves an axial resolution of 2.48 μm in air and a transverse resolution of 4.8 μm with a depth‐of‐focus (DOF) of ~150 μm. To mitigate the issue of limited DOF, we used a rigid sheath to maintain a circular lumen and center the distal‐end optics. The sensitivity is tested to be 98.8 dB with an illumination power of 15.6 mW on the sample. With fresh swine colon tissues imaged ex vivo, detailed structures such as crypt lumens and goblet cells can be clearly resolved, demonstrating that this fiber‐optic μOCT system is capable of visualizing cellular‐level morphological features. We also demonstrate that time‐lapsed frame averaging and imaging speckle reduction are essential for clearly visualizing cellular‐level details. Further development of a clinically viable μOCT endomicroscope is likely to improve the diagnostic outcome of GI cancers.
SH3BP1‐induced Rac‐Wave2 pathway activation regulates cervical cancer cell migration, invasion, and chemoresistance to cisplatin
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Feng Yeqian , Chen Xishan , Du Zheng , Jiang Shaijun , Ma Shuyun , Zou Wen
Published: August 2017

Cervical cancer still remains the fourth most common cancer, affecting women worldwide with large geographic variations in cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates. SH3‐domain binding protein‐1 (SH3BP1) specifically inactivating Rac1 and its target Wave2 is required for cell motility, thus regarded as an essential regulator of cancer cell metastasis. However, the exact effects and molecular mechanisms of SH3BP1 in cervical cancer progression are still unknown. The present study is aimed to investigate the mechanism of SH3BP1 in regulation of cervical cancer cell metastasis and chemoresistance. In the present study, we demonstrated a high SH3BP1 expression in cervical cancer tissues; a higher SH3BP1 expression is also correlated with a shorter overall survival of patients with cervical cancer. Further, we revealed that SH3BP1 overexpression promoted the invasion, migration, and chemoresistance of cervical cancer cell through increasing Rac1 activity and Wave2 protein level. The promotive effect of SH3BP1 could be partially reversed by a Rac1 inhibitor, NSC 23766. In cisplatin‐resistant cervical cancer tissues, SH3BP1, Rac1, and Wave2 mRNA expression was significantly up‐regulated compared to that of the cisplatin‐sensitive cervical cancer tissues. Taken together, SH3BP1/Rac1/Wave2 pathway may potentially act as an effective therapeutic target combined with traditional cisplatin‐based chemotherapy for cervical cancer.
Accurate potential energy surfaces for hydrogen abstraction reactions: A benchmark study on the XYG3 doubly hybrid density functional
Authors: Chen Jun , Su Neil Qiang , Xu Xin , Zhang Dong H.
Published: August 2017

The potential energy surface (PES) for the H + CH4 system has been constructed with the recently developed XYG3 doubly hybrid functional, while those with the standard B3LYP hybrid functional, and the Møller–Plesset perturbation theory up to the second order (MP2) are also presented for comparison. Quantum dynamics studies demonstrated that satisfactory results on the reaction probabilities and the rate coefficients can be obtained on top of the XYG3‐PES, as compared to the results based on the highly accurate, yet expensive, CCSD(T)‐PES (Li et al., J. Chem. Phys. 2015, 142, 204302). Further investigation suggested that the XYG3 functional is useful in providing accurate rate coefficients for some larger systems involving H atom abstractions. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simple models for nonpolar solvation: Parameterization and testing
Authors: Michael Eleni , Polydorides Savvas , Simonson Thomas , Archontis Georgios
Published: August 2017

Implicit solvent models are important for many biomolecular simulations. The polarity of aqueous solvent is essential and qualitatively captured by continuum electrostatics methods like Generalized Born (GB). However, GB does not account for the solvent‐induced interactions between exposed hydrophobic sidechains or solute‐solvent dispersion interactions. These “nonpolar” effects are often modeled through surface area (SA) energy terms, which lack realism, create mathematical singularities, and have a many‐body character. We have explored an alternate, Lazaridis–Karplus (LK) gaussian energy density for nonpolar effects and a dispersion (DI) energy term proposed earlier, associated with GB electrostatics. We parameterized several combinations of GB, SA, LK, and DI energy terms, to reproduce 62 small molecule solvation free energies, 387 protein stability changes due to point mutations, and the structures of 8 protein loops. With optimized parameters, the models all gave similar results, with GBLK and GBDILK giving no performance loss compared to GBSA, and mean errors of 1.7 kcal/mol for the stability changes and 2 Å deviations for the loop conformations. The optimized GBLK model gave poor results in MD of the Trpcage mini‐protein, but parameters optimized specifically for MD performed well for Trpcage and three other small proteins. Overall, the LK and DI nonpolar terms are valid alternatives to SA treatments for a range of applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel role for the testis‐enriched HSPA2 protein in regulating epidermal keratinocyte differentiation
Authors: Gogler‐Pigłowska Agnieszka , Klarzyńska Katarzyna , Sojka Damian R. , Habryka Anna , Głowala‐Kosińska Magdalena , Herok Marcin , Kryj Mariusz , Halczok Monika , Krawczyk Zdzisław , Scieglinska Dorota
Published: August 2017

HSPA2, a poorly characterized member of the HSPA (HSP70) chaperone family, is a testis‐enriched protein involved in male germ cell differentiation. Previously, we revealed that HSPA2 is present in human stratified epithelia, including epidermis, however the contribution of this protein to epithelial biology remained unknown. Here, we show for the first time that HSPA2 is expressed in basal epidermal keratinocytes, albeit not in keratinocytes exhibiting features attributed to primitive undifferentiated progenitors, and participates in the keratinocyte differentiation process. We found that HSPA2 is dispensable for protection of HaCaT keratinocytes against heat shock‐induced cytotoxicity. We also shown that lentiviral‐mediated shRNA silencing of HSPA2 expression in HaCaT cells caused a set of phenotypic changes characteristic for keratinocytes committed to terminal differentiation such as reduced clonogenic potential, impaired adhesiveness and increased basal and confluency‐induced expression of differentiation markers. Moreover, the fraction of undifferentiated cells that rapidly adhered to collagen IV was less numerous in HSPA2‐deficient cells than in the control. In a 3D reconstructed human epidermis model, HSPA2 deficiency resulted in accelerated development of a filaggrin‐positive layer. Collectively, our results clearly show a link between HSPA2 expression and maintenance of keratinocytes in an undifferentiated state in the basal layer of the epidermis. It seems that HSPA2 could retain keratinocytes from premature entry into the terminal differentiation process. Overall, HSPA2 appears to be necessary for controlling development of properly stratified epidermis and thus for maintenance of skin homeostasis.
Effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields and platelet rich plasma in preventing osteoclastogenesis in an in vitro model of osteolysis
Authors: Tschon Matilde , Veronesi Francesca , Contartese Deyanira , Sartori Maria , Martini Lucia , Vincenzi Fabrizio , Ravani Annalisa , Varani Katia , Fini Milena
Published: August 2017

Osteolysis is the main limiting cause for the survival of an orthopedic prosthesis and is accompanied by an enhancement in osteoclastogenesis and inflammation, due by wear debris formation. Unfortunately therapeutic treatments, besides revision surgery, are not available. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of Pulsed Electro Magnetic Fields (PEMFs) and platelet rich plasma (PRP), alone or in combination, in an in vitro model of osteolysis. Rats peripheral blood mononuclear cells were cultured on Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene particles and divided into four groups of treatments: (1) PEMF stimulation (12 hr/day, 2.5 mT, 75 Hz, 1.3 ms pulse duration); (2) 10% PRP; (3) combination of PEMFs, and PRP; (4) no treatment. Treatments were performed for 3 days and cell viability, osteoclast number, expression of genes related to osteoclastogenesis and inflammation and production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines were assessed up to 14 days. PEMF stimulation exerted best results because it increased cell viability at early time points and counteracted osteoclastogenesis at 14 days. On the contrary, PRP increased osteoclastogenesis and reduced cell viability in comparison to PEMFs alone. The combination of PEMFs and PRP increased cell viability over time and reduced osteoclastogenesis in comparison to PRP alone. However, these positive results did not exceed the level achieved by PEMF alone. At longer time points PEMF could not counteract osteoclastogenesis increased by PRP. Regarding inflammation, all treatments maintained the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines at low level, although PRP increased the level of interleukin 1 beta.
Integrated process development ‐ quality by design compliant evaluation of upstream variations at the microscale level
Authors: Walther Cornelia , Boras Dario , Demmel Lars , Berkemeyer Matthias , Brocard Cécile , Dürauer Astrid
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Evaluation of optimized upstream conditions is often solely based on titers that do not reflect the downstream process and, consequently, the final purity and yield. This is especially critical for proteins expressed as inclusion bodies (IBs) because the subsequent downstream process is more complex than for soluble proteins. A miniaturized process development platform representing the entire downstream process at a microscale level combined with a multi‐fermenter system for bioprocess screening enables fast investigation, using quality by design (QbD) measures, of the quality of feedstock compositions that are altered by upstream conditions.

RESULTS

High‐throughput methods were integrated for an entire process chain, including upstream and downstream processing, for production of a recombinant protein as IBs. The miniaturized process chain consisted of cell disruption, IB harvesting, solubilization, refolding, and chromatographic purification. This enables processing and evaluation of 16 different fermentation conditions within 7 days. Only 2 g of initial biomass was required for evaluation of an individual fermentation. This resulted in a 15‐fold reduction of time and a 100‐fold reduction of material compared with common bench scale experiments.

CONCLUSION

This microscale process chain mimics the bench process and is able to differentiate purity variations as low as 2%. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Using a combined oxygen‐supply and substrate‐feeding strategy to improve 2,3‐butanediol production by metabolically engineered Klebsiella oxytoca KMS005
Authors: Chan Sitha , Kanchanatawee Sunthorn , Jantama Sirima Suvarnakuta , Jantama Kaemwich , Joannis‐Cassan Claire , Taillandier Patricia
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

There is much demand for and extensive application for 2,3‐butanediol (2,3‐BD) in various fields, and micro‐aerobic and substrate‐feeding conditions greatly affect microbial growth and production. The theoretical maximum of 2,3‐BD fermentative yield has rarely been reported. Therefore, our study aimed to develop an efficient combined oxygen‐supply and substrate‐feeding strategy to improve 2,3‐BD production yield in metabolically engineered Klebsiella oxytoca KMS005.

RESULTS

The optimized oxygen consumption for 2,3‐BD production by strain KMS005 was demonstrated at 9.2 g for 1 L working volume corresponding to KLa of 25.2 h−1. During fed‐batch, a glucose feeding rate of 2 g h−1 starting at the end of the growth phase for 48 h followed by a final batch phase of 40 h was found likely to be satisfactory for 2,3‐BD production by the strain KMS005. A final 2,3‐BD concentration was obtained at 74.7 g L−1 with few by‐products formation. A theoretical maximum of 2,3‐BD production yield of 0.5 g g−1 substrate used was also approached.

CONCLUSION

Our oxygen‐supply strategy with the specific feeding pattern developed in this study allowed the highest fermentative production yield of 2,3‐BD ever reported. The KMS005 strain may be used as a biocatalyst for cost‐effective 2,3‐BD production from renewable substrates. In addition, the outcome might bring a message for further developments of simple fed‐batch fermentation under micro‐aeration conditions into larger scales for 2,3‐BD production by K. oxytoca KMS005 or even other microorganisms. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Numerical framework for the simulation of dielectric heating using finite and boundary element method
Authors: Grabmaier Sebastian , Jüttner Matthias , Vögeli Desirée , Rucker Wolfgang M. , Göhner Peter
Published: August 2017

This paper presents the latest development towards a software agent–based numerical framework for interdisciplinary coupled problems. The software agent framework is capable to incorporate multiple physical effects and combine multiple numerical methods through the usage of a neutral abstraction layer. The principles of software agent–based programming and the application in a numerical example are discussed. This paper focuses on dielectric heating and different methods for solving the time harmonic Maxwell equation. By reusing state of the art finite element method (FEM) and boundary element method (BEM) software tools and managing the interface between the different tools, this approach solves complicated and realistic three‐dimensional problems. The functionality and efficiency of the framework are demonstrated on the dielectric heating inside a human head due to electromagnetic waves. A proper iterative coupling formulation for FEM and BEM is derived and numerically validated. The FEM‐BEM coupling separates from existing approaches, because it takes advantage of new developments in the FEM, namely, the perfect handling of infinite domains through perfectly matched layers. Moreover, the simplicity and flexibility of the coupling method allow implementation in existing numerical codes.
Future Caribbean temperature and rainfall extremes from statistical downscaling
Authors: Stennett‐Brown Roxann K. , Jones Jhordanne J. P. , Stephenson Tannecia S. , Taylor Michael A.
Published: August 2017

The Statistical Downscaling Model (SDSM) is used to investigate future projections of daily minimum and maximum temperature extremes for 45 stations and rainfall extremes for 39 stations across the Caribbean and neighbouring regions. Models show good skill in reproducing the monthly climatology of the mean daily temperatures and the frequencies of warm days, warm nights, cool days and cool nights between 1961 and 2001. Models for rainfall exhibit lower skill but generally capture the monthly climatology of mean daily rainfall and the spatial distribution of the mean annual maximum number of consecutive dry days (CDD) and mean annual count of days with daily rainfall above 10 mm (R10). Future projections suggest an increase (decrease) in warm (cool) days and nights by 2071–2099 under the A2 and B2 scenarios relative to 1961–1990. An increase in CDD is suggested for most stations except some eastern Caribbean stations and Bahamas. Decreases in RX1 (monthly maximum 1‐day precipitation), R10 and R95p (annual total rainfall above the 95th percentile) are also suggested for some northern Caribbean locations and Belize under the A2 scenario, compared to a mixture of increases and decreases for the eastern Caribbean. Atmospheric predictors used in SDSM correlate well with known oceanic and atmospheric drivers of Caribbean climate, e.g. the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) on a seasonal timescale. Atlantic sea surface temperatures and the Caribbean low level jet appear to have significant influence on Caribbean temperature and rainfall extremes.
EURO‐CORDEX regional climate model simulation of precipitation on Scottish islands (1971–2000): model performance and implications for decision‐making in topographically complex regions
Authors: Foley Aideen , Kelman Ilan
Published: August 2017

Due to their scale and complex topography, islands such as the Hebrides and Shetland Islands are not completely resolved by global climate models, which may impact the quality of data that can be provided about future climate in such locations. In principle, dynamical downscaling may provide helpful additional detail about future local climate. However, there is also the potential for error and uncertainty to cascade through to the regional simulation. Here, we evaluate the simulative skill of the EURO‐CORDEX regional climate model ensemble on regional and local scales in the Hebrides and Shetland Islands, and consider the potential for such models to aid decision‐making in island settings, and other locations characterized by complex topography. Several precipitation indices (accumulated precipitation amount, mean daily precipitation amount, max 1‐day and 5‐day precipitation amounts, simple daily intensity, number of heavy and very heavy precipitation days) are used to assess model performance and identify bias relative to observations. Models are compared regionally, and at specific locations, namely Stornoway in the Hebrides and Lerwick in Shetland, for the period 1971–2000. Regional evaluation utilizes the UKCP09 gridded observational data set and local evaluation at Stornoway Airport and Lerwick utilizes observed mean precipitation and extreme indices from the European Climate Assessment & Dataset project. While no models perform skilfully across all the metrics studied, some models capture aspects of the precipitation climate at each location particularly well. Differences in model performance between the two case study sites highlight the value of evaluating models on multiple spatial scales. The implications of model uncertainty for decision‐making are also discussed.
Seasonal and interannual variability of land–atmosphere coupling across the Southern Great Plains of North America using the North American regional reanalysis
Authors: Basara Jeffrey B. , Christian Jordan I.
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the seasonal to interannual variability of the temporal and spatial distributions of land–atmosphere coupling (LAC) at the mesoscale within the Southern Great Plains (SGP) of the United States. The North American Regional Reanalysis data set from 1979 to 2014 was used to complete this study. To further expand the relationship between soil moisture and precipitation, LAC was examined for the effects of soil moisture variability on latent heat flux (SM‐E) and the impact of latent heat flux variability on precipitation (E‐P). Results revealed that within the SGP there is a temporal and spatial seasonal evolution of the SM‐E relationship and dry boreal summer month (June, July and August, JJA) periods exhibit a stronger E‐P relationship relative to pluvial boreal summer month periods. Further, the variability of coupling was large both within‐season (i.e. JJA) as well as at the interannual scale while the interannual spatial and temporal coherence was such that no specific locations showed consistent coupling within the domain. Thus, the results indicate that while the SGP domain is sensitive to coupling, the location of preferred coupling is likely due to non‐local factors at the mesoscale embedded within synoptic conditions as well as the regional climate.
Regional climate forcing and topographic influence on glacier shrinkage: eastern cordilleras of Peru
Authors: Veettil Bijeesh Kozhikkodan , Wang Shanshan , Simões Jefferson Cardia , Ruiz Pereira Sebastian Felipe , de Souza Sergio Florêncio
Published: August 2017

This study assessed the influence of regional climate variability and topography on surface area changes at glacierized mountain peaks of four eastern tropical Andes cordilleras between 10.5° and 13.5°S, namely, Huaguruncho, Huaytapallana, Urubamba and Vilcabamba, during the period 1985–2015 using satellite data. Time series analysis of three key climate variables (temperature, precipitation and relative humidity) at 500 hPa level was also included. Decreasing trends in precipitation and increasing relative humidity trends were observed at the northern region. Further analysis on mean distribution of wind at 500 hPa level showed significant rising trend southwards during the austral winter. Glacierized surfaces at lower altitudes were shrinking faster than those at high altitudes as expected. However, spatial orientation of glacier retreat was not similar to nearby cordilleras such as Vilcanota and Carabaya excepting for Cordillera Urubamba. Despite the high rate of precipitation due to the humidity transport from the Amazon Basin on the eastern slopes, glaciers on the eastern and north‐eastern slopes in the Cordillera Urubamba retreated at a higher rate compared with those glaciers on western and south‐western sides. Whether higher retreat on the eastern sides towards the south is controlled by precipitation phase changes (rain or snow) or by increased humidity levels was discussed. Furthermore, there was a predominant snowline altitude (SLA) rising trend varying between 56 and 129 m for the studied glaciers. A sharp rise in SLAs for periods 1995–2000 and 2010–2015 was attested, coinciding with warming trends in the Pacific. The relative stability in observed SLAs between 2000 and 2010 also coincided with cooling trends in the Pacific.
A field exploration of the “expat‐preneur” phenomenon
Authors: Vance Charles M. , Larrieu R. J. , Bergin Rebecca , Mercado Jennifer , Richmond Jared , Walden Michael , Reeser Casey
Published: August 2017

Expat‐preneurs are businesspeople who have moved abroad on their own initiative and started or joined a new commercial venture in the host country. An examination of the career paths, motivations, and challenges of 27 expat‐preneurs yields valuable insights for policy makers who wish to provide meaningful support for these bold and creative businesspeople. Investing in their talent can pay off through the transfer of knowledge and skills and the spread of entrepreneurial values to the local economies in which they participate.
ICG‐fluorescence imaging for detection of peritoneal metastases and residual tumoral scars in locally advanced ovarian cancer: A pilot study
Authors: Veys Isabelle , Pop Florin‐Catalin , Vankerckhove Sophie , Barbieux Romain , Chintinne Marie , Moreau Michel , Nogaret Jean‐Marie , Larsimont Denis , Donckier Vincent , Bourgeois Pierre , Liberale Gabriel ,   Group R&D for the Clinical Application of Fluorescence Imaging of the Jules Bordet Institute
Published: August 2017

Background and Objectives

No intraoperative imaging techniques exist for detecting tumor nodules or tumor scar tissues in patients treated with upfront or interval cytoreductive surgery (CS) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). The aims of this study were to evaluate the role of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging (FI) for the detection of peritoneal metastases (PM) and evaluate whether it can be used to detect remnant tumor cells in scar tissue.

Methods

Patients with PM from ovarian cancer admitted for CS were included. ICG, at 0.25 mg per kg of patient weight, was injected intraoperatively after explorative laparotomy before CS.

Results

A total of 108 peritoneal lesions, including 25 scars, were imaged in 20 patients. Seventy‐three were malignant (67.6%) and 35 benign (32.4%). The mean Tumor to Background Ratio (ex vivo) was 1.8 (SD 1.3) in malignant and 1.0 (SD 0.79) in benign nodules (P = 0.007). Of 25 post‐NAC scars, the mean Tumor to Background Ratio (TBR) (in vivo) was 2.06 (SD 1.15) in malignant and 1.21 (SD 0.50) in benign nodules (P = 0.26). The positive predictive value of ICG‐FI to detect tumor cells in scars was 57.1%.

Conclusions

ICG‐FI is accurate to demonstrate PM in ovarian cancer but unable to discriminate between benign and malignant post‐NAC.
Ultrasonography of Hands and Wrists in the Diagnosis of Complications of Chikungunya Fever
Authors: Mogami Roberto , Pereira Vaz João Luiz , de Fátima Barcelos Chagas Yêdda , de Abreu Mirhelen Mendes , Torezani Rodrigo Sperling , de Almeida Vieira André , Junqueira Filho Eduardo Alvarenga , Barbosa Yasmin Baptista , Carvalho Antonio Carlos Pires , Lopes Agnaldo José
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this series was to describe the ultrasonographic and radiographic manifestations of changes to the hands and wrists in 50 patients with chronic musculoskeletal symptoms secondary to Chikungunya fever during the 2016 outbreak that occurred in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Most of the plain radiographs were normal (62%). The most common ultrasonographic findings were small joint synovitis (84%), wrist synovitis (74%), finger tenosynovitis (70%), and cellulitis (50%). In most cases, power Doppler did not show an increase in synovial vascular flow. The plain radiographs showed no specific findings, whereas the ultrasound images revealed synovial compromise and neural thickening.
Use of standardized letters of recommendation for otolaryngology head and neck surgery residency and the impact of gender
Authors: Friedman Remy , Fang Christina H. , Hasbun Johann , Han Helen , Mady Leila J. , Eloy Jean Anderson , Kalyoussef Evelyne
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To evaluate gender‐based differences in narrative letters of recommendation (NLORs) and standardized letters of recommendation (SLORs) submitted for applicants to an otolaryngology head and neck surgery (OHNS) residency program.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Nine hundred fifty‐eight letters of recommendation (LORs) submitted to one OHNS program in 2013 to 2014 were analyzed.

Results

NLORs (n = 590) and SLORs (n = 368) were reviewed. Male writers composed over 85% of all LORs. Compared with male writers, female writers of LORs were more likely to compose a letter of minimal assurance (P < 0.025). Female writers of SLORs were more likely to rank applicants higher in communication skills (P < 0.035) and match potential (P < 0.045). Analysis of LORs by applicant gender revealed that female applicants were more likely than male applicants to be described as team players (P < 0.025) and less likely to receive a letter of minimal assurance (P < 0.001). Compared with SLORs, NLORs written for male applicants were more likely to reference their leadership potential (P < 0.001). Female applicants were less likely to be described as “bright” (P < 0.001) and more likely to have their appearance mentioned (P < 0.03) in NLORs when compared to SLORs.

Conclusion

Although we found that SLORs reduce gender biases compared to NLORs, there remain significant differences in how female and male applicants are described. Greater awareness of historical biases likely has contributed to more equitable letter writing, although impactful gender biases remain when reviewing applicants.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 127:2738–2745, 2017
Stability in terms of two measures of solutions to stochastic partial differential delay equations with switching
Authors: Song Minghui , Zhao Shufen
Published: August 2017

In this paper, the problem of stability in terms of two measures is considered for a class of stochastic partial differential delay equations with switching. Sufficient conditions for stability in terms of two measures are obtained based on the technique of constructing a proper approximating strong solution system and conducting a limiting type of argument to pass on stability of strong solutions to mild ones. In particular, the stochastic stability under the fixed‐index sequence monotonicity condition and under the average dwell‐time switching are considered.
One‐dimensional q‐Dirac equation
Authors: Allahverdiev Bilender P. , Tuna Hüseyin
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we introduce a q‐analog of 1‐dimensional Dirac equation. We investigate the existence and uniqueness of the solution of this equation. Later, we discuss some spectral properties of the problem, such as formally self‐adjointness, the case that the eigenvalues are real, orthogonality of eigenfunctions, Green function, existence of a countable sequence of eigenvalues, and eigenfunctions forming an orthonormal basis of
. Finally, we give some examples.
Application of pattern recognition techniques for classification of pediatric brain tumors by in vivo 3T 1H‐MR spectroscopy—A multi‐center study
Authors: Zarinabad Niloufar , Abernethy Laurence J. , Avula Shivaram , Davies Nigel P. , Rodriguez Gutierrez Daniel , Jaspan Tim , MacPherson Lesley , Mitra Dipayan , Rose Heather E.L. , Wilson Martin , Morgan Paul S. , Bailey Simon , Pizer Barry , Arvanitis Theodoros N. , Grundy Richard G. , Auer Dorothee P. , Peet Andrew
Published: August 2017

Purpose

3T magnetic resonance scanners have boosted clinical application of 1H‐MR spectroscopy (MRS) by offering an improved signal‐to‐noise ratio and increased spectral resolution, thereby identifying more metabolites and extending the range of metabolic information. Spectroscopic data from clinical 1.5T MR scanners has been shown to discriminate between pediatric brain tumors by applying machine learning techniques to further aid diagnosis. The purpose of this multi‐center study was to investigate the discriminative potential of metabolite profiles obtained from 3T scanners in classifying pediatric brain tumors.

Methods

A total of 41 pediatric patients with brain tumors (17 medulloblastomas, 20 pilocytic astrocytomas, and 4 ependymomas) were scanned across four different hospitals. Raw spectroscopy data were processed using TARQUIN. Borderline synthetic minority oversampling technique was used to correct for the data skewness. Different classifiers were trained using linear discriminative analysis, support vector machine, and random forest techniques.

Results

Support vector machine had the highest balanced accuracy for discriminating the three tumor types. The balanced accuracy achieved was higher than the balanced accuracy previously reported for similar multi‐center dataset from 1.5T magnets with echo time 20 to 32 ms alone.

Conclusion

This study showed that 3T MRS can detect key differences in metabolite profiles for the main types of childhood tumors. Magn Reson Med 79:2359–2366, 2018. © 2017 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Biomimetic implants for pelvic floor repair
Authors: Vashaghian Mahshid , Zaat Sebastianus J. , Smit Theodoor H. , Roovers Jan‐Paul
Published: August 2017

Background

Polypropylene implants are used for the reconstructive surgery of urogynaecological disorders like pelvic organ prolapse, but severe complications associated with their use have been reported. There is evidence that surface properties and a difference in mechanical stiffness between the implant and the host tissue contribute to these adverse events. Electrospinning is an innovative engineering alternative that provides a biomimetic microstructure for implants, resulting in a different mechano‐biological performance.

Aim

The main objective of this review is to inform about the potential of electrospun matrices as an alternative modality for pelvic floor repair.

Methods

Publications with the following studies of electrospun matrices were reviewed: (i) the technique; (ii) in vitro use for soft tissue engineering; (iii) in vivo use for reconstruction of soft tissues in animals; and (iv) clinical use in humans.

Results

Electrospun matrices provide a synthetic mimic of natural extracellular matrix (ECM), favoring cellular attachment, proliferation and matrix deposition, through which a proper, low‐inflammatory tissue‐implant interaction can be established. Electrospun sheets can also be created with sufficient mechanical strength and stiffness for usage in prolapse surgery.

Conclusion

Electrospun matrices mimic the structural topography of the extracellular matrix and can be functionalized for better biological performance. As such, they have great potential for the next generation of urogynecological implants. However, their long‐term safety and efficacy must still be established in vivo.
New curing agents for epoxy resins: protoporphyrins
Authors: Fraga‐López Francisco , Vázquez Barreiro Eva C. , Jover Aida , Meijide Francisco , Rodríguez Eugenio , Vázquez‐Tato José
Published: August 2017

Two similar macrocycles protoporphyrin IX and zinc protoporphyrin IX (ZPP) have been used as cross‐linking agents for curing the epoxy resin of bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE, n = 0). The enthalpies and the activation energies of the esterification reaction of the 2 systems are very close to each other. However, the temperature of the minimum in the differential scanning calorimetry thermogram is 38°C lower for BADGE (n = 0)/ZPP, thus requiring a less energy expenditure for curing the system. By the contrary, the enthalpy and activation energies for the etherification reaction are lower and higher, respectively, for BADGE (n = 0)/ZPP suggesting that the zinc ion affects it, although the involved mechanism is unknown.
In vitro evaluation of sustained release of risperidone‐loaded microspheres fabricated from different viscosity of PLGA polymers
Authors: Shang Qing , Zhang Aixin , Wu Zhaoying , Huang Sijin , Tian Ruiqiong
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to fabricate different risperidone (RIS)–loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres (PLGA MS) with various viscosity of PLGA polymers and investigate the RIS release profiles. Risperidone‐loaded PLGA MS were fabricated via an oil/water–type emulsion solvent evaporation method, using ethyl acetate and benzil alcohol as the dispersed solvents. The PLGA (75:25) with the viscosity of 0.82, 0.93, and 1.10 dL/g was used in the fabrication. The morphology and the degradation of the RIS‐PLGA MS were investigated with a scanning electron microscope. The distribution states of RIS in the PLGA MS were studied with differential scanning calorimetry. The residual of ethyl acetate and benzil alcohol in the resulting MS was monitored with gas chromatography. The in vitro release profiles of RIS from PLGA MS were also studied. Scanning electron microscope photographs illustrated that the obtained PLGA MS were monodisperse spheres with an average diameter of 100 μm. Gas chromatography results suggested that no residual ethyl acetate was left in the final RIS‐PLGA MS, and the residue amount of benzil alcohol was about 1%. In vitro drug release profiles from the microsphere showed a substantially sigmoidal pattern of negligible initial burst up to 24 hours and minimal release (time lag) for 14 days. After the lag phase, slow release took a place up to 30 days, and then rapid release occurred sharply for about 2 weeks. The RIS release reached equilibrium around day 50. All release profiles showed the similar trend, and no significant difference was observed among these release profiles (P > .05). This phenomenon indicated that RIS‐loaded PLGA MS with the viscosity of 0.82 to 0.93 dL/g showed the optimal release behavior. However, no obvious differences were found among the MS obtained from the viscosity of 0.82 to 1.10 dL/g. These studies provided basis for the quality control in the industrial production of PLGA MS.
Multiscale approach for three‐phase CNT/polymer/fiber laminated nanocomposite structures
Authors: Tornabene Francesco , Bacciocchi Michele , Fantuzzi Nicholas , Reddy J.N.
Published: August 2017

The free vibration analysis of laminated nanocomposite plates and shells using first‐order shear deformation theory and the generalized differential quadrature method is presented. Each layer of the laminate is modeled as a three‐phase composite. An example of such composite material is given by a polymeric matrix reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs). CNTs enhance the mechanical properties of the polymer matrix and the nanocomposite is treated as an isotropic material; a micromechanics model is used to compute the engineering constants of the isotropic hybrid material. This approach based on the Eshelby–Mori–Tanaka scheme takes into account the agglomeration of the nanoparticles in the matrix. The second step consists in combining this enriched matrix with unidirectional and oriented reinforcing fibers to obtain a fibrous composite with improved mechanical features. The overall mechanical properties of each orthotropic ply are evaluated through different micromechanics approaches. Each technique is illustrated in detail and the transversely isotropic properties of the three‐phase layers are completely defined. The effects of both CNTs agglomeration and the mass fraction of these particles are investigated comparing with the results obtained by various homogenization techniques. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E102–E126, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Refill adherence and persistence to lipid‐lowering medicines in patients with type 2 diabetes: A nation‐wide register‐based study
Authors: Karlsson Sofia Axia , Hero Christel , Eliasson Björn , Franzén Stefan , Svensson Ann‐Marie , Miftaraj Mervete , Gudbjörnsdottir Soffia , Eeg‐Olofsson Katarina , Andersson Sundell Karolina
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This study aimed to describe and compare refill adherence and persistence to lipid‐lowering medicines in patients with type 2 diabetes by previous cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

We followed 97 595 patients (58% men; 23% with previous CVD) who were 18 years of age or older when initiating lipid‐lowering medicines in 2007–2010 until first fill of multi‐dose dispensed medicines, death, or 3 years. Using personal identity numbers, we linked individuals' data from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register, the Swedish National Diabetes Register, the National Patient Register, the Cause of Death Register, and the Longitudinal Integration Database for Health Insurance and Labour Market Studies. We assessed refill adherence using the medication possession ratio (MPR) and the maximum gap method, and measured persistence from initiation to discontinuation of treatment or until 3 years after initiation. We analyzed differences in refill adherence and persistence by previous CVD in multiple regression models, adjusted for socioeconomic status, concurrent medicines, and clinical characteristics.

Results

The mean age of the study population was 64 years, 80% were born in Sweden, and 56% filled prescriptions for diabetes medicines. Mean MPR was 71%, 39% were adherent according to the maximum gap method, and mean persistence was 758 days. Patients with previous CVD showed higher MPR (3%) and lower risk for discontinuing treatment (12%) compared with patients without previous CVD (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Patients with previous CVD were more likely to be adherent to treatment and had lower risk for discontinuation compared with patients without previous CVD.
Prevalence and severity of childhood adversity in adolescents with BPD, psychiatrically healthy adolescents, and adults with BPD
Authors: Temes Christina M. , Magni Laura R. , Fitzmaurice Garrett M. , Aguirre Blaise A. , Goodman Marianne , Zanarini Mary C.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Existing research has demonstrated that both adolescents and adults with borderline personality disorder (BPD) report higher rates of childhood adversity than their same‐age peers; no studies have examined if adolescents and adults with BPD differ based on the extent of these experiences. In the present study, we compared the prevalence rates and severity of multiple forms of abuse and neglect in adolescents and adults with BPD and in psychiatrically healthy adolescents.

Methods

Participants included 104 adolescent (aged 13–17 years) inpatients with BPD, 60 age‐matched, psychiatrically healthy adolescents, and 290 adult inpatients with BPD. All participants completed an interview that assessed the presence and severity of multiple forms of childhood abuse and neglect.

Results

A significantly higher percentage of adolescents with BPD reported 5 of 12 pathological childhood experiences and described more severe abusive experiences than their psychiatrically healthy peers. In comparison with adolescents with BPD, a significantly higher percentage of adults with BPD reported nearly all forms of childhood adversity and rated these experiences as more severe.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results suggest that adults with BPD report more severe profiles of abuse and neglect than adolescents with the disorder, even though adolescents with BPD differ from healthy peers. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optoelectronic and conductivity of ᴫ‐conjugated polymers based on phenylenevinylene, 1,3,4‐thiadiazole and thiophene: Suitable candidates for n‐type organic semiconductors
Authors: Milad Rim , Essalah Khaled , Abderrabba Manef
Published: August 2017

New poly‐phenylenevinylenes PPVs containing 1,3,4‐thiadiazole as candidates for organic semiconductors have been theoretically studied at density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT levels. This study has been conducted in order to investigate the geometrical and electronic properties as well as the conductivity of a series of PPV–thiophene–1,3,4–thiadiazole–thiophene (H–PhTAT–H) containing –CHO, –CH2–P(=O)(OCH3)2, and phenyl–CHO (PhCHO) terminal groups. The impact of terminal groups on the optical bandgaps, electron affinity, LUMO energy, and intramolecular reorganization energy was studied for different oligomers and for a limit polymer. The incorporation of terminal groups did not affect the chain length evolution and the vertical transition energy Evertvalue for a polymer limit compared with the unsubstituted oligomer (H–PhTAT–H). All studied properties showed that CHO–PhTAT–PhCHO and H–PhTAT–H oligomers can be considered as n‐type semiconductors.
Reaching for [6]n SiC‐cyclacenes and [6]n SiC‐acenes: A DFT approach
Authors: Mirza Behrooz , Soleimani‐Amiri Somayeh , Mirza Maziar
Published: August 2017

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations introduced triplet ground states for [6]n SiC‐cyclacenes and ‐acenes with alternate silabenzene rings including silicon atoms in 2 opposite edges (n = 6, 8, 10, 12). The singlet‐triplet energy gap (ΔE(S‐T)), binding energy per atom (BE/n), and NBO calculation with very small band gap (ΔELUMO‐HOMO) confirmed the triplet ground states. In contrast to polyacenes, the singlet [6]n SiC‐cyclacenes displayed more stability improvement than triplets, through n increasing. This may open the way for synthesis of larger stable [6]n SiC‐cyclacenes. The ΔE(S‐T), BE/n, and the strain energy through homodesmic equations indicated more stability for larger [6]n SiC‐cyclacenes, which was more noticeable in singlet states. Cyclacenes and acenes with high conductivity and full point charge were introduced as suitable candidates for hydrogen storage.
Reversing resistance to tembotrione in an Amaranthus tuberculatus (var. rudis) population from Nebraska, USA with cytochrome P450 inhibitors
Authors: Oliveira Maxwel C , Gaines Todd A , Dayan Franck E , Patterson Eric L , Jhala Amit J , Knezevic Stevan Z
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

A population of Amaranthus tuberculatus (var. rudis) was confirmed resistant to 4‐hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD)‐inhibitor herbicides (mesotrione, tembotrione, and topramezone) in a seed corn/soybean rotation in Nebraska. Further investigation confirmed a non‐target‐site resistance mechanism in this population. The main objective of this study was to explore the role of cytochrome P450 inhibitors in restoring the efficacy of HPPD‐inhibitor herbicides on the HPPD‐inhibitor resistant A. tuberculatus population from Nebraska, USA (HPPD‐R).

RESULTS

Enhanced metabolism via cytochrome P450 enzymes is the mechanism of resistance in HPPD‐R. Amitrole partially restored the activity of mesotrione, whereas malathion, amitrole, and piperonyl butoxide restored the activity of tembotrione and topramezone in HPPD‐R. Although corn was injured through malathion followed by mesotrione application a week after treatment, the injury was transient, and the crop recovered.

CONCLUSION

The use of cytochrome P450 inhibitors with tembotrione may provide a new way of controlling HPPD‐inhibitor resistant A. tuberculatus, but further research is needed to identify the cytochrome P450 candidate gene(s) conferring metabolism‐based resistance. The results presented here aid to gain an insight into non‐target‐site resistance weed management strategies. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
High Quality Superconductor–Normal Metal Junction Made on the Surface of MoS2 Flakes
Authors: Chen Qihong , Liang Lei , Ali El Yumin Abdurrahman , Lu Jianming , Zheliuk Oleksandr , Ye Jianting
Published: August 2017

A superconductor–normal metal (SN) junction is fabricated on the surface of a few‐layer MoS2 flake. Superconductivity is induced by ionic liquid gating, and an h‐BN flake is used to locally separate ionic liquid from the surface of MoS2. The h‐BN covered channel remains semiconducting, therefore an SN junction forms at the interface between the exposed and h‐BN covered MoS2 channel. Transport properties at the SN junction are studied at low temperatures and under magnetic fields. The probability of observing Andreev reflection is discussed based on the BTK model.
Simulations on the Influence of Spatially Varying Spin Transport Parameters on the Measured Spin Lifetime in Graphene Non‐Local Spin Valves
Authors: Drögeler Marc , Volmer Frank , Stampfer Christoph , Beschoten Bernd
Published: August 2017

Spin transport properties of graphene non‐local spin valve devices are typically determined from Hanle spin precession measurements by using a simplified solution of the one‐dimensional Bloch‐Torrey equation which assumes infinitely long transport channels and uniform spin transport parameter. We investigate the effects of a finite graphene size and explore the influence of spatially‐varying transport parameters on the measured Hanle curves by finite element simulations. We assume enhanced spin dephasing in the contact‐covered graphene areas with additional Fermi level pinning and explore the influence of non‐magnetic reference electrodes which are not properly decoupled from graphene. In experiments, it is typically observed that the spin lifetime increases with increasing charge carrier density. None of our simulations can reproduce this trend indicating that this dependency originates from spin transport through graphene areas which are not covered by contacts. We find that the extracted spin lifetime might be overestimated in flakes which are shorter than the spin diffusion length. Moreover, contact‐induced spin dephasing leads to an overall reduction of the extracted spin lifetime. Additionally, we show that non‐magnetic reference electrodes may also influence the measured spin lifetime even though they are not part of the transport area under investigation.