bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental validation of a single‐photodiode receiver for VLC systems using color shift keying modulation
Authors: Luna Rivera Jose M. , Guerra Victor , Rabadan Jose , Perez‐Jimenez Rafael , Suarez‐Rodriguez Cristo
Published: December 2016

This letter reports the first experimental results obtained from a recently proposed single‐photodiode receiver for visible light communications (VLC) using color shift keying (CSK) modulation. This novel detection scheme has the potential to reduce the implementation cost by two‐thirds compared to the CSK‐based receiver structure introduced in the VLC IEEE 802.15.7 standard. A proof of concept is performed to demonstrate its practical feasibility and advantages towards the deployment of VLC systems. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:428–432, 2017
All electronic propagation loss measurement and link budget analysis for 350 GHz communication link
Authors: Bhardwaj Shubhendu , Nahar Niru K. , Volakis John L.
Published: December 2016

In this work, we measure the propagation losses for estimating the performance of a communication link in the frequency band of 350 GHz. The losses are measured by having a transmitter and receiver at varying distances upto 8.5 m. Due to limited ability to move the transmitter and receiver, reflection methods are employed. Using this simple method, we show the presence of water absorption lines in the spectra at 380 and 448 GHz. We also study the data‐rate enhancement using dielectric lenses. Finally, using the measured data, we estimate that data‐ rates of 1 Gbps for 8.5 m and 100 Gbps for 1 m distance are possible via a communication link at 350 GHz. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:415–423, 2017
A K‐band low phase noise and low power CMOS voltage‐controlled oscillator
Authors: Tsai Jeng‐Han , Lin Yu‐Zhe , Kuo Yin‐Ting
Published: December 2016

A K‐band differential cross‐coupled inductance‐ capacitance (LC) voltage‐controlled oscillator (VCO) is implemented in 0.18‐μm CMOS process. To accomplish high quality (Q) factor LC‐tank at K‐band, a slab inductor with high Q is adopted. The VCO can be tuned from 23.1 to 23.38 GHz and the core dc power consumption is 11.33 mW from 1 V power supply. The phase noise is −109.04 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset, and the calculated figure of merit (FoM) is −185.79 dBc/Hz. At low supply voltage mode of 0.65 V, the phase noise is −106.015 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset and the FoM is −189.76 dBc/Hz. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:362–366, 2017
Design of multiband electromagnetic wave absorber based on a periodic surface for electromagnetic wave measurement facility applications
Authors: Sim Dong‐Uk , Kwon Jong‐Hwa , Park Seong‐Ook
Published: December 2016

In this paper, the periodic structure‐based absorber operating at dual‐band or more for applying to new electromagnetic wave measurement facility that does not contain a conventional pyramidal absorber is presented. To achieve the objective, the absorber structure takes the format of two‐layer periodic surfaces. Based on the logical design principles, the parametric study results to obtain the desired performance and the final experimental result are addressed. The measured result shows a broadband reflectivity characteristic from 0.60 to 3.27 GHz on the basis of below −10 dB. As a result, the absorber shows the performance supporting CDMA, WCDMA, and WLAN bands in the electromagnetic wave measurement facility. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:478–481, 2017
Hot‐spot temperature and temperature decay rate measurement in the oil immersed power transformer through FBG based quasi‐distributed sensing system
Authors: Deng Jian‐Gang , Nie De‐Xin , Pi Ben‐Xi , Xia Li , Wei Li
Published: December 2016

This work demonstrates a quasi‐distributed sensing method to obtain the accurate location and temperature value of hot‐spot by placing Fiber Bragg Grating sensors in the conductor wires of transformer's windings. The quasi‐distributed temperature measuring system can support the demodulation of up to 218 FBGs, and has the ability to obtain the temperature decay rates of windings, strips, iron cores, and top oil in a 35 kV/4000 kVA oil immersed power transformer through a temperature‐rise test. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:472–475, 2017
High accuracy terahertz time‐domain system for reliable characterization of photoconducting antennas
Authors: Abdulmunem Oday Mazin , Born Norman , Mikulics Martin , Balzer Jan Christof , Koch Martin , Preu Sascha
Published: December 2016

We report on a terahertz (THz) time‐domain system to characterize photoconductive THz emitters and detectors, that is designed for highest reproducibility. This system is excellently suited for studying the performance of THz sources and detectors in a systematic manner, either by varying the substrate materials or the geometrical parameters of metallic antenna contacts building a photoconductive switch. After confirming the reproducibility and stability of the system with errors of only 1.9% (over 3 h) and 2.6% (over 9 days), we use the system to compare the performance of five low temperature grown (LT) GaAs wafers with growth temperatures between 200°C and 300°C. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:468–472, 2017
Functional and structural microanatomy of the fetal sciatic nerve
Authors: Creze Maud , Zaitouna Mazen , Krystel Nyangoh Timoh , Diallo Djibril , Lebacle Cédric , Bellin Marie‐France , Ducreux Denis , Benoit Gérard , Bessede Thomas
Published: December 2016

Introduction

The ultrastructure of a nerve has implications for surgical nerve repair. The aim of our study was to characterize the fascicular versus fibrillar anatomy and the autonomic versus somatic nature of the fetal sciatic nerve (SN).

Methods

Immunohistochemistry for vesicular acetylcholine transporter, tyrosine hydroxylase, and peripheral myelin protein 22 was performed to identify cholinergic, adrenergic, and somatic axons, respectively, in the human fetal SN. Two‐dimensional (2D) analysis and 3D reconstructions were performed.

Results

The fetal SN is composed of one‐third stromal tissue and two‐thirds neural tissue. Autonomic fibers are predominant over somatic fibers within the neural tissue. The distribution of somatic fibers is initially random, but then become topographically organized after intra‐ and interfascicular rearrangements have occurred within the nerve.

Conclusions

The fetal model presents limitations but enables illustration of the nature of the nerve fibers and the 3D fascicular anatomy of the SN. Muscle Nerve 56: 787–796, 2017
Is thyrotoxic periodic paralysis a disease caused by muscle membrane dysfunction?
Authors: Son Yoo‐Ri , Kim Nam‐Hee , Kim Dong‐Gun , Park Kyung‐Seok
Published: December 2016

Introduction: Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is characterized by recurrent episodes of reversible paralysis with hyperthyroidism. It is clinically similar to hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HOPP), which features significant ion‐channel dysfunction and reduced muscle fiber conduction velocity (MFCV). However, the muscle membrane function in TPP is not known. Methods: For 13 patients with TPP and 15 age‐matched controls, clinical assessment and serial neurophysiological testing, including nerve conduction, prolonged exercise (PE) testing, and MFCV. were performed. Results: MFCV values were elevated up to 1 year from the paralytic attack in TPP patients. In the group with a positive PE test, MFCV values were higher. There was no significant relationship between MFCV values and either hypokalemia or hyperthyroidism. Conclusions: Although clinical manifestations in TPP are similar to those observed in HOPP, TPP appears to feature an alternate pathogenic mechanism. Specifically, MFCV values increased rather than decreased. Further studies are needed to support these findings. Muscle Nerve, 2016 Muscle Nerve 56: 780–786, 2017
Quantification of human upper extremity nerves and fascicular anatomy
Authors: Brill Natalie A. , Tyler Dustin J.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

In this study we provide detailed quantification of upper extremity nerve and fascicular anatomy. The purpose is to provide values and trends in neural features useful for clinical applications and neural interface device design.

Methods

Nerve cross‐sections were taken from 4 ulnar, 4 median, and 3 radial nerves from 5 arms of 3 human cadavers. Quantified nerve features included cross‐sectional area, minor diameter, and major diameter. Fascicular features analyzed included count, perimeter, area, and position.

Results

Mean fascicular diameters were 0.57 ± 0.39, 0.6 ± 0.3, 0.5 ± 0.26 mm in the upper arm and 0.38 ± 0.18, 0.47 ± 0.18, 0.4 ± 0.27 mm in the forearm of ulnar, median, and radial nerves, respectively. Mean fascicular diameters were inversely proportional to fascicle count.

Conclusion

Detailed quantitative anatomy of upper extremity nerves is a resource for design of neural electrodes, guidance in extraneural procedures, and improved neurosurgical planning. Muscle Nerve 56: 463–471, 2017
Characterization of a rat orthotopic pancreatic head tumor model using three‐dimensional and quantitative multi‐parametric MRI
Authors: Yin Ting , Peeters Ronald , Feng Yuanbo , Liu Yewei , Yu Jie , Dymarkowski Steven , Himmelreich Uwe , Oyen Raymond , Ni Yicheng
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability of 3D isotropic MRI and quantitative multi‐parametric MRI characterization on an orthotopic pancreatic head tumor model in rats. 3D isotropic T2‐weighted MRI was performed as a routine for tumor longitudinal follow‐up and volume estimation. Common bile duct diameter was measured from 3D multiplanar reconstruction. Quantitative multi‐parametric measurements including pixel‐wise T2, T1 relaxivity, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and apparent diffusion kurtosis mapping were performed twice throughout tumor growth. Semi‐quantitative and quantitative analyses based on an extended Tofts model were applied to region‐of‐interest‐based dynamic contrast‐enhanced imaging, followed by contrast ratio measurement on standard contrast‐enhanced imaging. Moreover, low‐level texture‐based analysis was inspected for T2, T1, ADC and contrast ratio measurements. Results indicated that multi‐parametric MRI showed good reproducibility for tumor characterization; the measurements were not affected by tumor growth. Tumor growth was further confirmed with histology examinations. To conclude, state‐of‐the‐art clinical MRI techniques were translated to this preclinical tumor model with high reliability, and have paved the way for translational oncology studies on this tumor model.
A 6‐node triangular solid‐shell element for linear and nonlinear analysis
Authors: Ko Yeongbin , Lee Phill‐Seung
Published: December 2016

In this paper, we present an effective 6‐node triangular solid‐shell element (MITC‐S6), with particular attention on shear locking and thickness locking. To alleviate shear locking, the assumed transverse strain field of the MITC3+ shell element is used while modifying the bending enhancement mechanism. Thickness locking is treated using the assumed and enhanced strain methods for thickness strain. Two independent enhancements of strains are applied: The in‐plane and transverse shear strain fields are enhanced using the strain fields obtained from a bubble interpolation function for in‐plane translations, and the thickness strain field is enhanced for linear variation in the thickness direction. The general three‐dimensional material law is employed. The proposed element passes all the basic tests including zero‐energy mode, patch, and isotropy tests. Excellent performance is observed in various linear and nonlinear benchmark tests, wherein its performance is compared with that of existing 6‐node triangular and 8‐node quadrilateral solid‐shell elements. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
INSIGHT responsive parenting intervention is associated with healthier patterns of dietary exposures in infants
Authors: Hohman Emily E. , Paul Ian M. , Birch Leann L. , Savage Jennifer S.
Published: December 2016

Objective

To determine whether a responsive parenting (RP) intervention affects infant dietary patterns.

Methods

Primiparous mother‐newborn dyads (n = 291) were randomized to the Intervention Nurses Start Infants Growing on Healthy Trajectories (INSIGHT) RP intervention or control. Curricula were delivered at nurse home visits at ages 3, 16, 28, and 40 weeks. RP group feeding guidance advised responsive feeding, delayed introduction of solids, repeated exposure to novel foods, and age‐appropriate portion sizes. Latent class analysis identified patterns of dietary exposure at 9 months. Class membership at 9 months was used to predict BMI percentile at 2 years.

Results

Five dietary patterns were identified: “Breastfed, Fruits and Vegetables,” “Breastfed, Low Variety,” “Formula, Fruits and Vegetables,” “Formula, Low Variety,” and “Formula, High Energy Density.” Over 60% of infants had patterns low in fruits and vegetables or high in energy‐dense foods. RP group infants were less likely than control to be in the “Formula, Low Variety” class (OR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.23–0.71) or “Formula, High Energy Density” class (OR = 0.28, 95% CI 0.12–0.61) relative to the “Formula, Fruits and Vegetables” class. Dietary pattern at 9 months was significantly associated with BMI percentile at 2 years.

Conclusions

While a majority of infants consumed diets low in fruits and vegetables, the INSIGHT RP intervention was associated with healthier dietary patterns.
Derivation of marker gene signatures from human skin and their use in the interpretation of the transcriptional changes associated with dermatological disorders
Authors: Shih Barbara B , Nirmal Ajit J , Headon Denis J , Akbar Arne N , Mabbott Neil A , Freeman Tom C
Published: December 2016

Numerous studies have explored the altered transcriptional landscape associated with skin diseases to understand the nature of these disorders. However, data interpretation represents a significant challenge due to a lack of good maker sets for many of the specialized cell types that make up this tissue, whose composition may fundamentally alter during disease. Here we have sought to derive expression signatures that define the various cell types and structures that make up human skin, and demonstrate how they can be used to aid the interpretation of transcriptomic data derived from this organ. Two large normal skin transcriptomic datasets were identified, one RNA‐seq (n = 578), the other microarray (n = 165), quality controlled and subjected separately to network‐based analyses to identify clusters of robustly co‐expressed genes. The biological significance of these clusters was then assigned using a combination of bioinformatics analyses, literature, and expert review. After cross comparison between analyses, 20 gene signatures were defined. These included expression signatures for hair follicles, glands (sebaceous, sweat, apocrine), keratinocytes, melanocytes, endothelia, muscle, adipocytes, immune cells, and a number of pathway systems. Collectively, we have named this resource SkinSig. SkinSig was then used in the analysis of transcriptomic datasets for 18 skin conditions, providing in‐context interpretation of these data. For instance, conventional analysis has shown there to be a decrease in keratinization and fatty metabolism with age; we more accurately define these changes to be due to loss of hair follicles and sebaceous glands. SkinSig also highlighted the over‐/under‐representation of various cell types in skin diseases, reflecting an influx in immune cells in inflammatory disorders and a relative reduction in other cell types. Overall, our analyses demonstrate the value of this new resource in defining the functional profile of skin cell types and appendages, and in improving the interpretation of disease data. © 2016 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
MicroRNA‐320a and microRNA‐4496 attenuate Helicobacter pylori cytotoxin‐associated gene A (CagA)‐induced cancer‐initiating potential and chemoresistance by targeting β‐catenin and ATP‐binding cassette, subfamily G, member 2
Authors: Kang Dong Woo , Yang Eun Sun , Noh Yu Na , Hwang Won Chan , Jo Se‐Young , Suh Young‐Ah , Park Won Sang , Choi Kang‐Yell , Min Do Sik
Published: December 2016

Infection with Helicobacter pylori is closely linked to an increased risk of gastric cancer. Although cytotoxin‐associated gene A (CagA), a major virulence factor of H. pylori, is known to be a causal factor for gastric carcinogenesis, the molecular link between CagA and gastric cancer‐initiating cell (CIC)‐like properties remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that CagA is required for increased expression of β‐catenin and its target CIC markers via downregulation of microRNA (miR)‐320a and miR‐4496. CagA promoted gastric CIC properties and was responsible for chemoresistance. miR‐320a and miR‐4496 attenuated the in vitro self‐renewal and tumour‐initiating capacity of CagA‐expressing CICs by targeting β‐catenin. Moreover, miR‐320a and miR‐4496 decreased CagA‐induced chemoresistance by targeting ATP‐binding cassette, subfamily G, member 2 (ABCG2) at the transcriptional and post‐transcriptional levels, respectively. Combination therapy with 5‐fluorouracil and miR‐320a/miR‐4496 suppressed gastric tumourigenesis and metastatic potential in an orthotopic mouse model, probably via suppression of CagA‐induced CIC properties and chemoresistance. Our results provide novel evidence that CIC properties, chemoresistance and tumourigenesis associated with H. pylori are linked to CagA‐induced upregulation of β‐catenin and ABCG2. These data provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of CagA‐induced carcinogenisis and the therapeutic potential of of miR‐320a and miR‐4496. Copyright © 2016 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring β‐Tubulin Inhibitors from Plant Origin using Computational Approach
Authors: Verma Kanika , Kannan Kaavya , V Shanthi , R Sethumadhavan , V Karthick , K Ramanathan
Published: December 2016

Introduction

β‐Tubulin is an important target for the binding of anti‐cancer drugs, in particular, paclitaxel (taxol), vinblastine and epothilone. However, mutations in β‐tubulin structure give resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. Notably, mutations at R306C, F270 V, L217R, L228F, A185T and A248V positions in β‐tubulin give high resistance for paclitaxel binding.

Objective

To discover novel inhibitors of β‐tubulin from natural sources, particularly alkaloids, using a virtual screening approach.

Methodology

A virtual screening approach was employed to find potent lead molecules from the Naturally‐occurring Plant‐based Anti‐cancer Compound‐activity Target (NPACT) database. Alkaloids have great potential to be anti‐cancer agents. Therefore, we have screened all alkaloids from a total of 1574 molecules from the NPACT database for our study. Initially, Molinspiration and DataWarrior programs were utilised to calculate pharmacokinetics and toxicity risks of the alkaloids, respectively. Subsequently, AutoDock algorithm was employed to understand the binding efficiency of alkaloids against β‐tubulin. The binding affinity of the docked complex was confirmed by means of an intermolecular interaction study. Moreover, oral toxicity was predicted by using ProTox program. Further, metabolising capacity of drugs was studied by using SmartCYP software. Additionally, scaffold analysis was done with the help of scaffold trees and dendrograms, providing knowledge about the building blocks for parent‐compound synthesis.

Results

Overall, the results of our computational analysis indicate that isostrychnine, obtained from Strychnosnux‐vomica, satisfies pharmacokinetic and bioavailability properties, binds efficiently with β‐tubulin. Thus, it could be a promising lead for the treatment of paclitaxel resistant cancer types.

Conclusion

This is the first observation of inhibitory activity of isostrychnine against β‐tubulin and warrants further experimental investigation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The REACH Impact on Gun Propellant Formulations
Authors: Böhnlein‐Mauß Jutta , Kröber Hartmut
Published: December 2016

REACH is the abbreviation for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals. It is a regulation of the European Union, adopted to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals, while enhancing the competitiveness of the EU chemicals industry. Current gun propellant formulations employ environmentally unfriendly materials, like dibutyl‐phthalate (DBP). In this contribution a study was conducted, which aims to evaluate the environmental friendliness of common gun propellant ingredients and to propose environmentally acceptable substitutes for harmful substances. In the first step a simplified assessment matrix based on the REACH relevant properties of chemicals was developed. The matrix consists of the main criteria of the new European regulation, their legal limit values, and their evaluation by REACH. For a selected number of ingredients of commonly used gun propellants the toxicological and eco‐toxicological data were collected in order to carry out an initial assessment under the REACH regulation. In this context some substances show remarkable and critical properties and it was started to find suitable substitutes, which were first assessed with regard to the REACH regulation. As an example potential substitutes for nitroglycerine were experimentally introduced in gun propellant formulations and their main properties were determined and compared with the standard formulation.
Insight into the da Vinci® Xi – technical notes for single‐docking left‐sided colorectal procedures
Authors: Ngu James Chi‐Yong , Sim Sarah , Yusof Sulaiman , Ng Chee‐Yung , Wong Andrew Siang‐Yih
Published: December 2016

Background

The adoption of robot‐assisted laparoscopic colorectal surgery has been hampered by issues with docking, operative duration, technical difficulties in multi‐quadrant access, and cost. The da Vinci® Xi has been designed to overcome some of these limitations. We describe our experience with the system and offer technical insights to its application in left‐sided colorectal procedures.

Methods

Our initial series of left‐sided robotic colorectal procedures was evaluated. Patient demographics and operative outcomes were recorded prospectively using a predefined database.

Results

Between March 2015 and April 2016, 54 cases of robot‐assisted laparoscopic left‐sided colorectal procedures were successfully completed with no cases of conversion. The majority were low anterior resections for colorectal malignancies. Using the da Vinci® Xi Surgical System, multi‐quadrant surgery involving dissection from the splenic flexure to the pelvis was possible without redocking.

Conclusions

The da Vinci® Xi simplifies the docking procedure and makes single‐docking feasible for multi‐quadrant left‐sided colorectal procedures.
Iterative learning control design with high‐order internal model for discrete‐time nonlinear systems
Authors: Zhou Wei , Yu Miao , Liu Baobin
Published: December 2016

In this paper, a high‐order internal model (HOIM)‐based iterative learning control (ILC) scheme is proposed for discrete‐time nonlinear systems to tackle the tracking problem under iteration‐varying desired trajectories. By incorporating the HOIM that is utilized to describe the variation of desired trajectories in the iteration domain into the ILC design, it is shown that the system output can converge to the desired trajectory along the iteration axis within arbitrarily small error. Furthermore, the learning property in the presence of state disturbances and output noise is discussed under HOIM‐based ILC with an integrator in the iteration axis. Two simulation examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control method. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clipboards, calls and focus groupies
Authors: Courtright Melanie
Published: December 2016

“They are often done in the street–in bad weather–by people with clipboards, who would prefer to be doing something else, with passers‐by who do their best to avoid eye contact but relent before the supplicant's ‘it will only take a minute’. Joan Bakewell, the Guardian, 2003
Five ways digital incentives are changing market research
Authors: Shah Jignesh
Published: December 2016

Incentives are crucial to market research. But physical incentives like checks, gift cards, and cash can be time consuming and expensive. Delivering physical incentives also leaves more room for error, which can cause you to spend even more time resolving issues and delays in delivery to participants.
Bioinformatic tools for analysis of CLIP ribonucleoprotein data
Authors: De Supriyo , Gorospe Myriam
Published: December 2016

Investigating the interactions of RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) with RNAs is a complex task for molecular and computational biologists. The molecular biology techniques and the computational approaches to understand RBP–RNA (or ribonucleoprotein, RNP) interactions have advanced considerably over the past few years and numerous and diverse software tools have been developed to analyze these data. Accordingly, laboratories interested in RNP biology face the challenge of choosing adequately among the available software tools those that best address the biological problem they are studying. Here, we focus on state‐of‐the‐art molecular biology techniques that employ crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (CLIP) of an RBP to study and map RNP interactions. We review the different software tools and databases available to analyze the most widely used CLIP methods, HITS‐CLIP, PAR‐CLIP, and iCLIP. WIREs RNA 2017, 8:e1404. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1404

This article is categorized under:

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Ribonomics

RNA Methods > RNA Analyses In Vitro and In Silico
The Norwegian Cervical Arthroplasty Trial (NORCAT): 2-year clinical outcome after single-level cervical arthroplasty versus fusion—a prospective, single-blinded, randomized, controlled multicenter study
Authors: Sundseth Jarle , Fredriksli Oddrun Anita , Kolstad Frode , Johnsen Lars Gunnar , Pripp Are Hugo , Andresen Hege , Myrseth Erling , Müller Kay , Nygaard Øystein P. , Zwart John-Anker ,   On behalf of the NORCAT study group
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Standard surgical treatment for symptomatic cervical disc disease has been discectomy and fusion, but the use of arthroplasty, designed to preserve motion, has increased, and most studies report clinical outcome in its favor. Few of these trials, however, blinded the patients. We, therefore, conducted the Norwegian Cervical Arthroplasty Trial, and present 2-year clinical outcome after arthroplasty or fusion.

Methods

This multicenter trial included 136 patients with single-level cervical disc disease. The patients were randomized to arthroplasty or fusion, and blinded to the treatment modality. The surgical team was blinded to randomization until nerve root decompression was completed. Primary outcome was the self-rated Neck Disability Index. Secondary outcomes were the numeric rating scale for pain and quality of life questionnaires Short Form-36 and EuroQol-5Dimension-3 Level.

Results

There was a significant improvement in the primary and all secondary outcomes from baseline to 2-year follow-up for both arthroplasty and fusion (P < 0.001), and no observed significant between-group differences at any follow-up times. However, linear mixed model analyses, correcting for baseline values, dropouts and missing data, revealed a difference in Neck Disability Index (P = 0.049), and arm pain (P = 0.027) in favor of fusion at 2 years. The duration of surgery was longer (P < 0.001), and the frequency of reoperations higher (P = 0.029) with arthroplasty.

Conclusion

The present study showed excellent clinical results and no significant difference between treatments at any scheduled follow-up. However, the rate of index level reoperations was higher and the duration of surgery longer with arthroplasty.

Trial registration

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT 00735176.19.
Estimation of stature by using the dimensions of the right hand and right foot in Han Chinese adults
Authors: Zhang Xinghua , Wei Yu , Zheng Lianbin , Yu Keli , Zhao Dapeng , Bao Jinping , Li Yonglan , Lu Shunhua , Xi Huanjiu , Xu Guochang , Wen Youfeng
Published: December 2016

The Han Chinese people are the main ethnic group in China and the largest ethnic group in the world. The dimensions of the hands and feet have been successfully used for the estimation of stature. A total of 26,927 healthy adult subjects, comprising 13,221 men and 13,706 women, were recruited. The survey samples were chosen through random cluster sampling. The mean values were significantly higher in men than those in women for all measurements (P<0.001). All the measurements showed a statistically significant correlation with stature (P<0.01). The combination of the right hand length and the right foot length was the best predictor of stature because it had the lowest standard error of estimate. The use of multiple regression equations yielded better results than did the use of linear regression equations. The accuracy of stature prediction ranged from ±4.81 to ±6.39 cm. The present study was of great importance with regards to improving the physical anthropology database of ethnic groups in China.
A comparison of measurement methods of hippocampal atrophy rate for predicting Alzheimer's dementia in the Aberdeen Birth Cohort of 1936
Authors: Rana Arnab K. , Sandu Anca‐Larisa , Robertson Kenna L. , McNeil Christopher J. , Whalley Lawrence J. , Staff Roger T. , Murray Alison D.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Various methods are available to measure hippocampal atrophy rate. We compared methods to predict Alzheimer's dementia.

Methods

Participants with brain imaging at ages 69 and 73 years were identified from a previous study. Simple manual measures and computationally automated volumetry were performed. Receiver operating characteristics assessed the predictive ability of each method at baseline and on logit regression analysis of two serial scans.

Results

Ten of 149 participants developed Alzheimer's dementia and had lower baseline volumes (3647 vs. 4194 mm3 P = .002), rates of volume loss (−126 vs. −36 mm3/y; P = .001), and rates of loss in hippocampal fraction (−8.55 vs. −2.35 x 10−5/y; P = .001). Baseline volume with a rate of change gave the highest area under the curve value of 0.96.

Discussion

Automated volumetry measuring hippocampal size at age 69 years and subsequent rate of change predicts Alzheimer's dementia development.
Synergistic interaction between amyloid and tau predicts the progression to dementia
Authors: Pascoal Tharick A. , Mathotaarachchi Sulantha , Shin Monica , Benedet Andrea L. , Mohades Sara , Wang Seqian , Beaudry Tom , Kang Min Su , Soucy Jean‐Paul , Labbe Aurelie , Gauthier Serge , Rosa‐Neto Pedro
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Recent literature proposes that amyloid β (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau (p‐tau) synergism accelerates biomarker abnormalities in controls. Yet, it remains to be answered whether this synergism is the driving force behind Alzheimer disease (AD) dementia.

Methods

We stratified 314 mild cognitive impairment individuals using [18F]florbetapir positron emission tomography Aβ imaging and cerebrospinal fluid p‐tau. Regression and voxel‐based logistic regression models with interaction terms evaluated 2‐year changes in cognition and clinical status as a function of baseline biomarkers.

Results

We found that the synergism between [18F]florbetapir and p‐tau, rather than their additive effects, was associated with the cognitive decline and progression to AD. Furthermore, voxel‐based analysis revealed that temporal and inferior parietal were the regions where the synergism determined an increased likelihood of developing AD.

Discussion

Together, the present results support that progression to AD dementia is driven by the synergistic rather than a mere additive effect between Aβ and p‐tau proteins.
Metastasis of colon adenocarcinoma to the mandible: A case report
Authors: Kameta Ayako , Oda Takaaki , Ogura Ichiro , Ono Junya , Kanri Yoriaki , Okada Yasuo , Tsuchimochi Makoto
Published: December 2016

Metastatic tumors to the oral cavity are uncommon. In this article, we report a case of metastatic adenocarcinoma of the colon to the mandible with imaging features. A 73‐year‐old man with a history of colon cancer and liver metastasis was referred to our hospital with a chief complaint of swelling and pain in the right mandible. Panoramic radiograph revealed a radiolucency with ill‐defined margin. Computed tomography showed an osteolytic lesion with cortical bone destruction. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a round‐shaped homogeneous intensity mass expanding from the mandible. Histopathological diagnosis revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma of the colon.
WORD-KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPMENT IN CHINESE AS A HERITAGE LANGUAGE LEARNERS
Authors: Zhang Haomin , Koda Keiko
Published: December 2016

This exploratory study aimed to examine whether early exposure to Chinese as a heritage language (CHL) provides facilitation in word-knowledge development in collegiate CHL learners by comparing word-level subskills, including oral vocabulary knowledge, print vocabulary knowledge, morphological awareness, and lexical inferencing ability, between CHL learners and non-CHL learners. Sixty-two collegiate intermediate-level Chinese learners including 37 CHL learners and 25 non-CHL learners participated in this study. Drawing on multivariate analyses, the study found that CHL learners outperformed non-CHL learners on oral vocabulary knowledge, morphological awareness, and lexical inferencing ability, but not on print vocabulary knowledge. In both groups of learners, print vocabulary knowledge was the strongest predictor of lexical inferencing ability. While oral vocabulary knowledge and print vocabulary knowledge were highly correlated in non-CHL learners, they were more distinct constructs in CHL learners. These findings seem to suggest that early exposure to spoken Chinese enhances the development of oral vocabulary knowledge and morphological awareness in CHL learners. Importantly, the latter appears to enhance the formation of the connection between oral vocabulary knowledge and print knowledge.
Toxic effects of insecticides on the life table and development of Earias vittella (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on okra
Authors: Ahmad Salman , Ansari M. Shafiq , Khan Nadeem , Hasan Fazil
Published: December 2016

Okra,Abelmoschus esculentus(L.) Moench, is an important vegetable crop grown throughout the tropical and temperate regions of the world. Spotted bollworm,Earias vittella(Fab.), is one of the most important insect pests of okra. The effects of insecticides (cypermethrin, imidacloprid, carbaryl and neem oil) were studied on the fitness of the F1 generation ofE. vittellaby a demographic method. Life table was constructed from the eggs obtained by the surviving individuals that had ingested insecticides. Survivorship and expectancy was highest with the commencement of age and gradually decreased with the progression of age in the treatment groups and control. However, it was reduced in the treatment groups in comparison to control groups. Highest numbers of unhatched eggs (17%) were recorded with imidacloprid and cypermethrin treatments, whereas all the eggs hatched in control groups. Larval mortality was high in the initial instars as compared to late instars. Potential fecundity was significantly reduced to 94 females/female/generation treated with cypermethrin as compared to 256 in the untreated females. Developmental time of pre-pupa and pupa was significantly decreased with cypermethrin treatment. The intrinsic rate of increase was reduced to 0.0201 females/female/day in cypermethrin groups as compared to 0.046 in the control groups. The generation time was 33.27 days in the control, which was reduced to 26.78 days with carbaryl treatment and was increased to 37.5 days with neem oil. Insecticides cause adverse effect on the surviving generation ofE. vittella, and may be incorporated as a valuable component in the integrated management ofE. vittellaon okra.
Smad3-related miRNAs regulated oncogenic TRIB2 promoter activity to effectively suppress lung adenocarcinoma growth
Authors: Zhang Yan-Xia , Yan Yun-Fei , Liu Yue-Mei , Li You-Jie , Zhang Han-Han , Pang Min , Hu Jin-Xia , Zhao Wei , Xie Ning , Zhou Ling , Wang Ping-Yu , Xie Shu-Yang
Published: December 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and Smad3, as key transcription factors in transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) signaling, help regulate various physiological and pathological processes. We investigated the roles of Smad3-regulated miRNAs with respect to lung adenocarcinoma cell apoptosis, proliferation, and metastasis. We observed that Smad3 and phospho-SMAD3 (p-Smad3) were decreased in miR-206- (or miR-140)-treated cells and there might be a feedback loop between miR-206 (or miR-140) and TGF-β1 expression. Smad3-related miRNAs affected tribbles homolog 2 (TRIB2) expression by regulating trib2 promoter activity through the CAGACA box. MiR-206 and miR-140 inhibited lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo by suppressing p-Smad3/Smad3 and TRIB2. Moreover, lung adenocarcinoma data supported a suppressive role for miR-206/miR-140 and an oncogenic role for TRIB2—patients with higher TRIB2 levels had poorer survival. In summary, miR-206 and miR-140, as tumor suppressors, induced lung adenocarcinoma cell death and inhibited cell proliferation by modifying oncogenic TRIB2 promoter activity through p-Smad3. MiR-206 and miR-140 also suppressed lung adenocarcinoma cell metastasis in vitro and in vivo by regulating EMT-related factors.
High thioredoxin‐1 levels in rheumatoid arthritis patients diminish binding and signalling of the monoclonal antibody Tregalizumab
Authors: Heim Katharina , Dälken Benjamin , Faust Stefanie , Rharbaoui Faiza , Engling Andre , Wallmeier Holger , Dingermann Theodor , Radeke Heinfried H , Schüttrumpf Jörg , Gutscher Marcus
Published: December 2016

The humanized non‐depleting anti‐CD4 monoclonal antibody Tregalizumab (BT‐061) is able to selectively activate the suppressive function of regulatory T cells and has been investigated up to phase IIb in clinical trials in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic model based on clinical data from RA and healthy volunteers, which used the cell surface CD4 downmodulation as marker of activity, confirmed a stronger effect in healthy volunteers compared with RA patients. We tried to understand this phenomenon and evaluated the influence of the small oxidoreductase thioredoxin‐1 (Trx1). To counteract oxidative stress that is strongly associated with RA pathophysiology, the organism employs Trx1. Therefore, increased expression and secretion of Trx1 is found in the synovial fluid and plasma of RA patients. Moreover, the binding site of Tregalizumab is in close proximity to a disulphide bond in domain 2 (D2) of CD4, which is a known target for a reduction by oxidoreductase Trx1. With the experiments reported herein, we demonstrated that specific reduction of the D2 disulphide bond by Trx1 led to diminished binding of Tregalizumab to recombinant human soluble CD4 and membrane‐bound CD4 on T cells. Moreover, we showed that this caused changes in the Tregalizumab‐induced CD4 signalling pathway via the lymphocyte‐specific protein tyrosine kinase p56Lck and CD4 downmodulation. In summary, we provide evidence that high Trx1 levels in RA patients compared with healthy subjects are a potential reason for diminished binding of Tregalizumab to CD4‐positive T cells and offer an explanation for the observed decreased CD4 downmodulation in RA patients in comparison to healthy subjects.
GM‐CSF signalling blockade and chemotherapeutic agents act in concert to inhibit the function of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in vitro
Authors: Gargett Tessa , Christo Susan N , Hercus Timothy R , Abbas Nazim , Singhal Nimit , Lopez Angel F , Brown Michael P
Published: December 2016

Immune evasion is a recently defined hallmark of cancer, and immunotherapeutic approaches that stimulate an immune response to tumours are gaining recognition. However tumours may evade the immune response and resist immune‐targeted treatment by promoting an immune‐suppressive environment and stimulating the differentiation or recruitment of immunosuppressive cells. Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC) have been identified in a range of cancers and are often associated with tumour progression and poor patient outcomes. Pancreatic cancer in particular supports MDSC differentiation via the secretion of granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), and MDSC are believed to contribute to the profoundly immune‐suppressive microenvironment present in pancreatic tumours. MDSC‐targeted therapies that deplete or inhibit this cell population have been proposed as a way to shift the balance in favour of a tumour‐clearing immune response. In this study, we have modelled MDSC differentiation and function in vitro and this has provided us with the opportunity to test a range of potential MDSC‐targeted therapies to identify candidates for further investigation. Using in vitro modelling we show here that the combination of GM‐CSF‐signalling blockade and gemcitabine suppresses both the MDSC phenotype and the inhibition of T‐cell function by MDSC.
Ultrafast infrared observation of exciton equilibration from oriented single crystals of photosystem II
Authors: Kaucikas Marius , Maghlaoui Karim , Barber Jim , Renger Thomas , van Thor Jasper J.
Published: December 2016

In oxygenic photosynthesis, two photosystems work in series. Each of them contains a reaction centre that is surrounded by light-harvesting antennae, which absorb the light and transfer the excitation energy to the reaction centre where electron transfer reactions are driven. Here we report a critical test for two contrasting models of light harvesting by photosystem II cores, known as the trap-limited and the transfer-to-the trap-limited model. Oriented single crystals of photosystem II core complexes of Synechococcus elongatus are excited by polarized visible light and the transient absorption is probed with polarized light in the infrared. The dichroic amplitudes resulting from photoselection are maintained on the 60 ps timescale that corresponds to the dominant energy transfer process providing compelling evidence for the transfer-to-the-trap limitation of the overall light-harvesting process. This finding has functional implications for the quenching of excited states allowing plants to survive under high light intensities.
Tumor cell-intrinsic PD-L1 promotes tumor-initiating cell generation and functions in melanoma and ovarian cancer
Authors: Gupta Harshita B , Clark Curtis A , Yuan Bin , Sareddy Gangadhara , Pandeswara Srilakshmi , Padron Alvaro S , Hurez Vincent , Conejo-Garcia José , Vadlamudi Ratna , Li Rong , Curiel Tyler J
Published: December 2016

As tumor PD-L1 provides signals to anti-tumor PD-1+ T cells that blunt their functions, αPD-1 and αPD-L1 antibodies have been developed as anti-cancer immunotherapies based on interrupting this signaling axis. However, tumor cell-intrinsic PD-L1 signals also regulate immune-independent tumor cell proliferation and mTOR signals, among other important effects. Tumor-initiating cells (TICs) generate carcinomas, resist treatments and promote relapse. We show here that in murine B16 melanoma and ID8agg ovarian carcinoma cells, TICs express more PD-L1 versus non-TICs. Silencing PD-L1 in B16 and ID8agg cells by shRNA (‘PD-L1lo’) reduced TIC numbers, the canonical TIC genes nanog and pou5f1 (oct4), and functions as assessed by tumorosphere development, immune-dependent and immune-independent tumorigenesis, and serial transplantability in vivo. Strikingly, tumor PD-L1 sensitized TIC to interferon-γ and rapamycin in vitro. Cell-intrinsic PD-L1 similarly drove functional TIC generation, canonical TIC gene expression and sensitivity to interferon-γ and rapamycin in human ES2 ovarian cancer cells. Thus, tumor-intrinsic PD-L1 signals promote TIC generation and virulence, possibly by promoting canonical TIC gene expression, suggesting that PD-L1 has novel signaling effects on cancer pathogenesis and treatment responses.
Correction: Corrigendum: Soybean-derived Bowman-Birk Inhibitor (BBI) Inhibits HIV Replication in Macrophages
Authors: Ma Tong-Cui , Zhou Run-Hong , Wang Xu , Li Jie-Liang , Sang Ming , Zhou Li , Zhuang Ke , Hou Wei , Guo De-Yin , Ho Wen-Zhe
Published: December 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 34752; published online: 13 October 2016; updated: 23 December 2016
Translocation of the thioesterase domain for the redesign of plipastatin synthetase
Authors: Gao Ling , Liu Hongxia , Ma Zhi , Han Jinzhi , Lu Zhaoxin , Dai Chen , Lv Fengxia , Bie Xiaomei
Published: December 2016

Non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs) are large enzymatic complexes that catalyse the synthesis of biologically active peptides in microorganisms. Genetic engineering has recently been applied to reprogram NRPSs to produce lipopeptides with a new sequence. The carboxyl-terminal thioesterase (TE) domains from NRPSs catalyse cleavage products by hydrolysis or complex macrocyclization. In this study, we modified plipastatin synthetase by moving the intrinsic TE region to the end of the internal thiolation (T) domains, thus generating Bacillus subtilis strains that could produce new truncated cyclic or linear peptides of the predicted sequence, which further provided an important insight into the regioselectivity of plipastatin TE. The TE was capable of recognizing and catalysing the lactone formation between L-Try3 with the last few residues L-Pro7 and L-Gln8 at the C-terminus. Additionally, the unmatched linkers connecting the TE region and T domain resulted in nonproduction strains, suggesting that the native T–TE linker is necessary and sufficient for the TE domain to release the products from the hybrid enzymes. This is the first report to demonstrate truncated cyclic lipopeptides production and module skipping by simply moving the TE domain forward in an NRPS system.
Super-Spreader Identification Using Meta-Centrality
Authors: Madotto Andrea , Liu Jiming
Published: December 2016

Super-spreaders are the nodes of a network that can maximize their impacts on other nodes, e.g., in the case of information spreading or virus propagation. Many centrality measures have been proposed to identify such nodes from a given network. However, it has been observed that the identification accuracy based on those measures is not always satisfactory among different types of networks. In addition, the nodes identified by using single centrality are not always placed in the top section, where the super-spreaders are supposed to be, of the ranking generated by simulation. In this paper we take a meta-centrality approach by combining different centrality measures using a modified version of Borda count aggregation method. As a result, we are able to improve the performance of super-spreader identification for a broad range of real-world networks. While doing so, we discover a pattern in the centrality measures involved in the aggregation with respect to the topological structures of the networks used in the experiments. Further, we study the eigenvalues of the Laplacian matrix, also known as Laplacian spectrum, and by using the Earth Mover’s distance as a metric for the spectrum, we are able to identify four clusters to explain the aggregation results.