bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation, Characterization, and Spectral Property Studies on Methotrexate Conjugated Multifunctional Fe3O4-Pyropheophorbide-a Fluorescence Nanoparticles
Authors: Cheng Jianjun , Tan Guanghui , Li Wenting , Zhang Hongyue , Li Shuying , Wang Zhiqiang , Jin Yingxue
Published: March 2017

Novel antitumor drug methotrexate (MTX) and fluorescence photosensitizer pyropheophorbide-a (PPa) conjugated multifunctional magnetic fluorescence nanoparticles Fe3O4@SiO2–NH2@MTX@PPa (MFMTXPPa) were designed and prepared for chemotherapy,
photodynamic therapy (PDT) and medical fluorescence imaging. Fe3O4@SiO2–NH2 nanoparticles were firstly synthesized by a sol–gel process. Then methotrexate and pyropheophorbide-a were successively anchored on the surface of core–shell
Fe3O4@SiO2–NH2 nanoparticles via covalently imide bond. The phase structure, composition, morphology, zeta potential, magnetic properties of nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer,
transmission electron microscopy, zeta potential, vibration sample magnetometer, thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. Meanwhile, we studied the effect of pH and different polar solvents on the absorption and fluorescence spectrum of MFMTXPPa. Our results indicated that MFMTXPPa preferentially
aggregated in the acidic conditions but maintained monomeric form in alkaline conditions. Aggregations exhibit markedly influence on the absorbance and fluorescence intensity. In addition, we found that MFMTXPPa has high magnetization (46.7 emu/g), good water-solubility and dispersity in polar
solvents, strong fluorescence intensity in near neutral conditions, and excellent stability in the acid-base system, which may be a potential candidate in the field of chemotherapy, PDT and fluorescence imaging.
Enhanced Anti Arthritic Potential of Tacrolimus by Transdermal Nanocarrier System
Authors: Aziz Kashish , Ahmad Nafees , Kohli Kanchan
Published: March 2017

Current work entails the development and assessment of a well-tolerated colloidal carrier system containing immunosuppressant drug tacrolimus (TL) for transdermal delivery to study its efficacy against arthritis. TL-NEs of different composition from phase diagram were prepared by high
sheer homogenization and a comprehensive physico-chemical characterization of the novel NEs were performed using different techniques in order to get most optimum NE. Optimized NE was incorporated in to carbopol-934 gel and subjected to ex vivo skin permeation studies, droplet size
analysis, zeta potential measurement, TEM examination, Rheology, and stability study. Moreover, we have evaluated the in vivo anti arthritic potential of same formulation and compared it with a marketed ointment (Protopic®, 0.03%) for the first time. Optimized TL-NG formulation
composed of Capryol 90 (5.0% w/w), tween-20 (15.0% w/w), Transcutol HP (7.5% w/w), water (72.5%) w/w, carbopol-934 (1.0%) and found to have permeation flux (68.88 μg/cm2/h), release (1621.46 μg/24 h), small droplet size (12.72 nm), and viscosity of 1.07 Pa-s.
The results of ZP indicated that formulation was stable and shelf life at room temperature was calculated as 1.59 years. The in vivo investigation demonstrated direct evidence on significant reduction (41.80%) in inflammation over a period of 24 h. On the basis of these preliminary finding,
we conclude that developed TL-NG has good anti-inflammatory action and may provide promising perspective for treatment of Arthritis.
FeS2 Intercalated Into Graphite as Sandwiched Anode for Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Wang Yazhou , Sun Yanfang , Guo Jinxue
Published: March 2017

The sandwich structured FeS2-graphite composites have been firstly developed for the application as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. XRD and TEM techniques reveal that FeS2 nanoparticles are intercalated into the interlayer of graphite and well dispersed.
Assured by the combined advantages of high capacity of FeS2, high conductivity of graphite, and specific sandwiched structures, the obtained composite anode materials deliver excellent electrochemical lithium storage properties, such as high reversible capacity (640 mAh g−1
at 100 mA g−1), stable cyclic performance and long cyclic life (capacity retention of 89% over 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1), as well as good rate capability.
Hybrid Magnetic-Polymeric Iron Oxide Nanoprobes for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Palma Susana I. C. J , Roque Ana C. A
Published: March 2017

In the last decades, the advent of nanotechnology has driven the study and application of nanoscale versions of magnetic materials. Among the various nanoparticles under research, iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNP), namely iron oxides magnetite (Fe3O4) and
maghemite (γ-Fe2O3), have attracted particular interest due to their superparamagnetism, biocompatibility and biodegradability. MNP are thus ideal platforms to work on a cellular and molecular level in several biomedical applications. In particular, the use
of MNP as contrast agents for biomedical imaging through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has been explored extensively in the last 30 years, taking advantage of the versatility of MNP functionalization due to the available large surface-to-volume ratio. Polymers, either synthetic or natural,
are the most common class of materials employed as coatings for MNP, allowing to customize nanoprobes properties such as size, shape, magnetic relaxation, as well as cell-nanoprobe interactions (for example, specificity towards tissue types, responsiveness to cellular environment features),
therapeutic effects or combination with other imaging modalities. While most biopolymers have intrinsic biocompatibility and biodegradability properties and are greener products, synthetic polymers offer engineering versatility and possibility of being tailor-made with specific properties.
This review covers the properties of nanoscale iron oxides, production and stabilization methods of such nanoparticles, and their biomedical applications, mainly focusing on the engineering of polymeric-MNP assemblies towards the development of new hybrid magnetic-polymeric MRI nanoprobes.
Recent Advances in Iron Nanoparticles: Preparation, Properties, Biological and Environmental Application
Authors: Iqbal Anam , Iqbal Kanwal , Li Bo , Gong Deyan , Qin Wenwu
Published: March 2017

This review focuses on the recent development and various strategies in the iron nanoparticles preparation, main attention is paid to the following: preparation, properties, biological and environmental applications. so several methods been put forward for the preparation of microstructure,
and magnetic properties of bare and surface functionalized iron nanoparticles has summarized here includes a series of physico-chemical methods such as vapor process methods, liquid processing method and solid processing method which is further classified in this review. Iron nanoparticles
with their corresponding catalytic, biological and environmental application was also discussed. Research has shown that various magnetic nanoparticles have been extensively investigated as novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents owing to their unique characteristics, including
efficient contrast effects, biocompatibility, and versatile surface functionalization capability. In order to implement the practical in vivo or in vitro applications, the iron nanoparticles must have combined properties of high magnetic saturation, stability, biocompatibility,
and interactive functions at the surface. Application of iron nanoparticles for removal of heavy metals is well-known adsorbents for the remediation of water. Recent progress in nanotechnology enables fine control of the size, crystal structure, and surface properties of iron nanoparticles.
Effect of Grinder Pretreatment for Easy Disintegration of Chitin into Nanofiber
Authors: Aklog Yihun Fantahun , Nagae Tomone , Izawa Hironori , Morimoto Minoru , Saimoto Hiroyuki , Ifuku Shinsuke
Published: March 2017

Chitin nanofibers were prepared by grinder pretreatments and subsequent mechanical treatment using a high-pressure water-jet (HPWJ) system. From SEM observations, grinder pretreatment improved disintegration efficiency in subsequent HPWJ treatment. That is, with pretreatment, excellent
nanofiber networks were observed after a single HPWJ treatment, and sufficient nano-fibrillation was accomplished with 5 cycles of HPWJ treatments. The characteristic crystalline structure of α-chitin and degree of relative crystallinity were maintained after a series of mechanical
treatments. From UV-Vis spectra, grinder pretreatment improved transparency of chitin nanofiber slurry, indicating the pretreatment facilitated subsequent HPWJ mechanical disintegration. Viscosities of chitin nanofiber slurry also showed that the grinder pretreatment and HPWJ treatment disintegrated
the chitin into nanofiber very well. However, excessive HPWJ treatment decreased nano-fiber length, resulting in lower viscosity.
Naked Eye Detection of Salmonella typhimurium Using Scanometric Antibody Probe
Authors: Yi So Yeon , Hwang Seul-Gee , Moon Jeong , Eom Gayoung , Hwang Ahreum , Sim Jieun , Lim Eun-Kyung , Jeong Jinyoung , Kim Bongsoo , Kang Taejoon , Jung Juyeon
Published: March 2017

Salmonella is one of the most common foodborne pathogens, and Salmonella outbreaks are mostly associated with the intake of contaminated food or drink. Therefore, the rapid and sensitive on-site detection of Salmonella is very important. We report a naked eye detection
method for Salmonella typhimurium using scanometric antibody probe. The antibody-attached glass substrate was treated with Salmonella typhimurium and the scanometric antibody probe was applied. After Ag enhancement of the probe, Salmonella typhimurium could be detected
with the naked eye. The scanometric antibody probe was prepared by simply mixing Au nanoparticles, gold binding peptide-protein G, and antibody against Salmonella typhimurium. This probe can act as a signal enhancer and thus allows for an extremely simple, rapid, and efficient analysis
of Salmonella typhimurium by the naked eye. We detected Salmonella typhimurium at a low concentration of 103 CFU/ml and clearly distinguished this bacterium from other foodborne pathogens. Furthermore, we successfully detected Salmonella typhimurium in milk,
suggesting that this method can be useful in real-life samples. Because the scanometric antibody probe can be expanded to various types of antibodies, this naked eye detection method could be employed for the detection of various types of pathogens.
Disposable Electrochemical Immunosensor Based on Dual-Labeled Gold Nanoprobe (Ab-Au-HRP) for Detection of Alpha-Fetoprotein
Authors: Fang Cheng , Cao Liangli , Chen Zhencheng
Published: March 2017

A disposable electrochemical immunosensor for detection of human alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) has been developed in this study, using monoclonal antibody against AFP and horseradish peroxidase co-modified colloidal gold nanoparticles (Ab-Au-HRP) as trace label and screen-printed carbon electrodes
(SPCEs) as signal transducers. The immunosensor was based on a sandwich immunoassay scheme in which the nanoprobe Ab-Au-HRP was dispensed on the polyester membrane as conjugate pad. The other monoclonal antibody against AFP, as capture antibody, was immobilized onto the nitrocellulose membrane
which was mounted on the carbon surface of the screen-printed electrodes. An absorbent paper was mounted downstream to draw the sample to successively flow through the conjugate, capture and absorbent pads. The resulting sandwich immune reaction was evaluated by electrochemical detection,
through addition of a single-component substrate for HRP. Under optimum conditions, the current value was linearly increased with an increased AFP concentration from 0.5 to 350 ng/mL, at a relatively low detection limit of 0.25 ng/mL at 3 sigma. Excellent analytical performance, fabrication
reproducibility and operational stability for the proposed immunosensor indicated its promising application in clinical diagnostics and self-exams.
Facile and Thermally-Stable Al2O3 Passivation by Using In-Situ TiO2 as a Capping Layer for Boron Emitter of N-Type Silicon
Authors: Suh Dongchul , Kang Yoonmook
Published: March 2017

Al2O3/TiO2 stacks formed by atomic layer deposition are known to provide a high level of passivation for boron-doped silicon. In previous works, the TiO2 layer was deposited on a pre-annealed Al2O3 layer, however this
stack showed passivation degradation after post-deposition annealing. This work presents an alternative to using the as-deposited Al2O3 for the Al2O3/TiO2 stack, which shows no degradation of passivation after post-deposition annealing
up to 400 °C. This approach simplifies the processing, allowing continuous layer deposition, and eliminates the undesirable vacuum breaking. This simplified processing leads to better thermal stability of the Al2O3/TiO2 stacks and a low emitter saturation
current density. In order to understand the underlying mechanism of surface passivation, an investigation on the effect of thermal SiO2 on the passivation of the Al2O3/TiO2 stack was performed, which indicates that the TiO2 capping layer
enhances the field-effect passivation for both the Si/Al2O3 and SiO2/Al2O3 structures.
Lifetime Analysis for Comparing POCl3 Diffused Emitter Doping Characteristics in p-Type Silicon Solar Cells Using QSSPC
Authors: Park HyunJung , Kim Soo Min , Jeong Sujeong , Shin Seung Hyun , Park Hyomin , Kang Yoonmook , Lee Hae-Seok , Kim Donghwan
Published: March 2017

Analysis of the emitter property of solar cells is important because the emitter doping characteristics can affect the surface recombination velocity, contact resistance, emitter saturation current density, and cell efficiency. To analyze the emitter quality, we used the following methods:
the four-point probe method, quasi-steady-state photoconductance (QSSPC), and secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS). The four-point probe method is used to measure the doping dose in the emitter. Using QSSPC, we can characterize the emitter quality, including the lifetime of the emitter,
and using SIMS, we can measure the concentration of dopants as a function of depth in the emitter. However, SIMS measurement is destructive and limited to the measurement of planar surface wafers. To solve this problem, we investigated the relationship between the minority carrier lifetime
and the emitter doping profile using the QSSPC. The relationship between the lifetime and emitter doping profile showed that the lifetime of the emitter decreases as the emitter doping concentration increases. From this result, we performed a lifetime analysis for differently doped POCl3-diffused
emitters. The results obtained using the theoretical model for the lifetime agreed with experimental SIMS measurement results, indicating that the model can be used as a quantitative model for comparing emitter doping characteristics.
Characterization of Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite Solar Cells by Surface Morphology Changes
Authors: Chung Taewon , Kim Seongtak , Bae Soohyun , Lee Sang-Won , Cho Kyungjin , Lee Seunghun , Kang Yoonmook , Lee Hae-Seok , Kim Donghwan
Published: March 2017

Organic–inorganic halide Perovskite solar cells have extremely high power conversion efficiencies of 22.1%, as officially recognized by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). These solar cells are therefore attractive candidates for use in next generation photovoltaic
applications. Perovskite materials for incorporation into solar cells are prepared by a two-step solution fabrication process to generate polycrystalline structures with diverse grain sizes. PbI2 is the main material used in the synthesis of organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite,
particularly when the sequential deposition method is employed, as it facilitates the formation of a well-organized perovskite layer. To improve the performance of these devices, the properties of PbI2 properties need to be investigated. We therefore examined the effects of PbI2
concentration in mesoporous perovskite solar cells prepared using a two-step solution deposition method. Samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), UV-Vis spectrometry, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results of this work confirm the importance
of the PbI2 layer in high efficiency perovskite solar cells.
Organic Photovoltaics with Non-Stoichiometric InZnSnO Thin Film Cathodes
Authors: Lee Hye Ji , Noviyana Imas , Koo Chang Young , Lee Jung-A , Kim Jeong-Joo , Lestari Annisa Dwi , Jeong Youngjun , Lee Youngu , Lee Hee Young
Published: March 2017

Non-stoichiometric indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO) thin films were deposited onto glass substrates at 400 °C by DC magnetron sputtering using non-stoichiometric (In0.5Zn0.25−xSn0.25+xO1.5 and In0.4Zn0.3−xSn0.3+xO1.5,
where x = ±0.05) IZTO ceramic targets. After deposition, all of the films were given annealing treatment at 450 °C in argon. The crystallization behavior was examined by X-ray diffraction, while the optical properties were measured by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, in
which the average transmittance values higher than 80% were observed from all films. The minimum resistivity of approximately 6.3 × 10−4 Ω·cm was observed from the Sn-rich In0.5Zn0.2Sn0.3O1.5 film. The resistivity
values of Sn-rich IZTO thin films were a little smaller than those of Zn-rich IZTO films. An OPV cell with the so-called inverted structure was fabricated using various IZTO films deposited under optimized conditions as the cathode electrode. It was found that the solar cell efficiency could
reach up to 7.9% which is the same with the OPV cell with conventional ITO film.
Effects of Annealing on Firing Stability of a Al2O3/SiNx Stack Passivation Layer for Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Jae Eun , Bae Soohyun , Song In Seol , Hyun Ji Yeon , Lee Kyung Dong , Shin Seung Hyun , Kang Yoonmook , Lee Hae-Seok , Kim Donghwan
Published: March 2017

Because of its high passivation quality, Al2O3 is used as the front passivation layer in commercial n-type silicon solar cells. The front passivation layer of a solar cell should have passivation properties and antireflection properties. For process efficiency
and protection, SiNx is used as a capping layer on Al2O3. However, the Al2O3/SiNx stack layer has an issue with firing stability during screen printing of the cell, similar to the Al2O3 layer.
This is because the Al2O3/SiNx stack layer needs to be fired to form the metal contact. In this study, the firing stability of the Al2O3/SiNx stack layer is investigated and the relation between blister formation
and passivation is elucidated. Annealing improves the passivation quality of layers after firing. The order of annealing and stack formation is also one of parameters for firing stability. We used thermal atomic layer deposition to form Al2O3 and plasma enhanced chemical
vapor deposition to form SiNx. The refractive index of each layer is 1.6 and 2.0, respectively, and the thickness is 10 nm and 70 nm, respectively. Rapid thermal processing was used for the annealing and firing. Passivation qualities were determined by quasi steady-state
photo conductance, and blistering was observed by optical microscopy. Although there is some blistering on the sample annealed at 600 °C, good passivation and good firing stability was observed. We identified that a low density of blisters formed during the annealing step improves the
firing stability of the passivation layer by preventing abrupt blister formation during the firing step, which is the cause of thermal degradation.
A Note on the Role of Spatial Scale in Imaging Collagen Hydrogels
Authors: Miri Amir K
Published: March 2017

Fibrillar collagen hydrogels have been used widely as bioactive scaffolds for multiple applications in biomedical and tissue engineering. The physical functions of collagen fibrils are regulated by their underlying microstructure—represented by fibrillar density and orientation.
The extent to which characterization techniques are used for imaging collagen fibrillar networks has significantly reduced the usefulness of published data for biomedical engineers. This short communication explains the level of uncertainty surrounding fibrillar orientation measurements. It
is discussed how a correlation between the orientation of collagen fibrils and normal distribution function can provide a robust baseline for comparative research in imaging collagen.
Cation Exchange Hydrogels as Platform for Loading and Controlled Delivery of Drug
Authors: Fundueanu Gheorghe , Constantin Marieta , Bucatariu Sanda , Mocanu Georgeta
Published: March 2017

Ion exchange hydrogels are largely used in pharmaceutical field due to high loading capacity and controlled delivery of drugs. In this paper, cation exchange hydrogels based on natural polymer (sulfopropyl dextran, SPD, carboxymethyl dextran, CMD, dextran sulfate, SD) or synthetic matrix
(styrene-divinylbenzene) (Vionit CS-3) were evaluated as support for loading and controlled delivery of hypoglycemic basic drug buformin, taken as model drug. The hydrogels, except dextran sulfate, proved high drug loading capacity and efficiency, due to the strong drug/cation exchange hydrogel
interactions and good accessibility of the drug to the loading sites. All hydrogels released the buformin in a prolonged time. The results concerning LD50 on rats and on mice demonstrated that there is no significant difference between the toxicity of the buformin itself and its
complexes with the studied cation exchange hydrogels. Also, it was demonstrated that buformin–cation exchange complexes are pharmacodynamically active and induce a significant decrease of the glycemia.
Effect of Preparation Conditions on the Conductivity of Polyaniline Impregnated Polyacrylate Conducting Hydrogel
Authors: Prabhakar Reetu , Kumar D
Published: March 2017

The superabsorbent polymers (SAP) based electrically conducting hydrogel such as polyaniline (PANI) impregnated polyacrylate (PAANa) hydrogel was synthesized via two-steps interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) process. This work deals with the optimization of preparation conditions
(such as concentration of crosslinker, aniline monomer, and initiator) for PANI impregnated PAANa conducting hydrogel preparation with improved conductivity. The microstructural characterization of the synthesized conducting hydrogel was carried out using Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy
(FTIR), UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The detailed study of PAANa/PANI hydrogel behavior with HCl dopant showed good conductivity, thermal stability, and pH sensitive swelling behavior in comparison to other dopants used.
On the optimization of synthesis conditions, the conducting hydrogel has shown good conductivity in order of 3.71 mS/cm and the electrical conductivity of hydrogel samples is also found higher than their corresponding filtrate.
Assessment of a Long-Term High-Resolution Hydroclimatic Dataset for the U.S. Midwest
Authors: Niyogi Dev , Jacobs Elin M. , Liu Xing , Kumar Anil , Biehl Larry , Rao P. Suresh C.
Published: March 2017

A new, high-resolution (4 km), gridded land surface dataset produced with the Land Information System (LIS) is introduced, and the first set of synthesis of key hydroclimatic variables is reported. The dataset is produced over a 33-yr time period (1980–2012) for the U.S. Midwest with the intent to aid the agricultural community in understanding hydroclimatic impacts on crop production and decision-making in operational practices. While approximately 20 hydroclimatic variables are available through the LIS dataset, the focus here is on soil water content, soil temperature, and evapotranspiration. To assess the performance of the model, the LIS dataset is compared with in situ hydrometeorological observations across the study domain and with coarse-resolution reanalysis products [NARR, MERRA, and NLDAS-2 (phase 2 of the North American Land Data Assimilation System)]. In agricultural regions such as the U.S. Midwest, finescale hydroclimatic mapping that links the regional scale to the field scale is necessary. The new dataset provides this link as an intermediate-scale product that links point observations and coarse gridded datasets. In general, the LIS dataset compares well with in situ observations and coarser gridded products in terms of both temporal and spatial patterns, but cases of strong disagreement exist particularly in areas with sandy soils. The dataset is made available to the broader research community as an effort to fill the gap in spatial hydroclimatic data availability.
Influences of Temperature and Precipitation on Historical and Future Snowpack Variability over the Northern Hemisphere in the Second Generation Canadian Earth System Model
Authors: Sospedra-Alfonso Reinel , Merryfield William J.
Published: March 2017

This study examines the changing roles of temperature and precipitation on snowpack variability in the Northern Hemisphere for Second Generation Canadian Earth System Model (CanESM2) historical (1850–2005) and future (2006–2100) climate simulations. The strength of the linear relationship between monthly snow water equivalent (SWE) in January–April and precipitation P or temperature T predictors is found to be a sigmoidal function of the mean temperature over the snow season up to the indicated month. For P predictors, the strength of this relationship increases for colder snow seasons, whereas for T predictors it increases for warmer snow seasons. These behaviors are largely explained by the daily temperature percentiles below freezing during the snow accumulation period. It is found that there is a threshold temperature (−5±1°C, depending on month in the snow season and largely independent of emission scenario), representing a crossover point below which snow seasons are sufficiently cold that P is the primary driver of snowpack amount and above which T is the primary driver. This isotherm allows one to delineate the snow-climate regions and elevation zones in which snow-cover amounts are more vulnerable to a warming climate. As climate projections indicate that seasonal isotherms shift northward and toward higher elevations, regions where snowpack amount is mainly driven by precipitation recede, whereas temperature-sensitive snow-covered areas extend to higher latitudes and/or elevations, with resulting impacts on ecosystems and society.
A Closure for Internal Wave–Mean Flow Interaction. Part II: Wave Drag
Authors: Eden Carsten , Olbers Dirk
Published: March 2017

A novel concept for parameterizing internal wave–mean flow interaction in ocean circulation models is extended to an arbitrary two-dimensional flow with vertical shear. The concept is based on the description of the entire wave field by the wave-energy density in physical and wavenumber space and its prognostic computation by the radiative transfer equation integrated in wavenumber space. Energy compartments result for the horizontal direction of wave propagation as additional prognostic model variables, of which only four are taken here for simplicity. The mean flow is interpreted as residual velocities with respect to the wave activity. The effect of wave drag and energy exchange due to the vertical shear of the residual mean flow is then given simply by a vertical flux of momentum. This flux is related to the asymmetries in upward, downward, alongflow, and counterflow wave propagation described by the energy compartments. A numerical implementation in a realistic eddying ocean model shows that the wave drag effect is a significant sink of kinetic energy in the interior ocean.
Horizontal stratification in access to Danish university programmes
Authors: Munk Martin D , Thomsen Jens-Peter
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we use register data to examine horizontal stratification within university institutions and university fields of study in Denmark, a country that has experienced a reduction of the social class gap in access to higher education. First, we argue that it is important to use a relatively detailed classification of parents’ occupations to determine how students are endowed with different forms of capital, even when their parents would typically be characterised as belonging to the same social group. Second, we distinguish among disciplines and among university institutions to explain the dynamics of horizontal stratification in the Danish university system. Using unique and exhaustive register data, including all higher education institutions and the entire 1984 cohort as of the age of 24, we uncover distinct differences in the magnitude and type of horizontal stratification in different fields of study and university institutions. Most importantly, we find distinct patterns of horizontal stratification by field of study and parental occupation that would have remained hidden had we used more aggregated classifications for field of study and social origin.
Relationships among Bone Quality, Implant Osseointegration, and Wnt Signaling
Authors: Li J. , Yin X. , Huang L. , Mouraret S. , Brunski J.B. , Cordova L. , Salmon B. , Helms J.A.
Published: March 2017

A variety of clinical classification schemes have been proposed as a means to identify sites in the oral cavity where implant osseointegration is likely to be successful. Most schemes are based on structural characteristics of the bone, for example, the relative proportion of densely compact, homogenous (type I) bone versus more trabeculated, cancellous (type III) bone. None of these schemes, however, consider potential biological characteristics of the bone. Here, we employed multiscale analyses to identify and characterize type I and type III bones in murine jaws. We then combined these analytical tools with in vivo models of osteotomy healing and implant osseointegration to determine if one type of bone healed faster and supported osseointegration better than another. Collectively, these studies revealed a strong positive correlation between bone remodeling rates, mitotic activity, and osteotomy site healing in type III bone and high endogenous Wnt signaling. This positive correlation was strengthened by observations showing that the osteoid matrix that is responsible for implant osseointegration originates from Wnt-responsive cells and their progeny. The potential application of this knowledge to clinical practice is discussed, along with a theory unifying the role that biology and mechanics play in implant osseointegration.
Exploring the Moderating Effects of Cognitive Abilities on Social Competence Intervention Outcomes
Authors: Stichter Janine P. , Herzog Melissa J. , Kilgus Stephen P. , Schoemann Alexander M.
Published: March 2017

Many populations served by special education, including those identified with autism, emotional impairments, or students identified as not ready to learn, experience social competence deficits. The Social Competence Intervention-Adolescents’ (SCI-A) methods, content, and materials were designed to be maximally pertinent and applicable to the social competence needs of early adolescents (i.e., age 11-14 years) identified as having scholastic potential but experiencing significant social competence deficits. Given the importance of establishing intervention efficacy, the current paper highlights the results from a four-year cluster randomized trial (CRT) to examine the efficacy of SCI-A (n = 146 students) relative to Business As Usual (n = 123 students) school-based programming. Educational personnel delivered all programming including both intervention and BAU conditions. Student functioning was assessed across multiple time points, including pre-, mid-, and post-intervention. Outcomes of interest included social competence behaviors, which were assessed via both systematic direct observation and teacher behavior rating scales. Data were analyzed using multilevel models, with students nested within schools. Results suggested after controlling for baseline behavior and student IQ, BAU and SCI students differed to a statistically significant degree across multiple indicators of social performance. Further consideration of standardized mean difference effect sizes revealed these between-group differences to be representative of medium effects (d > .50). Such outcomes pertained to student (a) awareness of social cues and information, and (b) capacity to appropriately interact with teachers and peers. The need for additional power and the investigation of potential moderators and mediators of social competence effectiveness are explored.
Tai Chi for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Pilot Study
Authors: Tsai Pao-Feng , Kitch Stephanie , Chang Jason Y. , James G. Andrew , Dubbert Patricia , Roca J. Vincent , Powers Cheralyn H.
Published: March 2017

Purpose: Explore the feasibility of a Tai Chi intervention to improve musculoskeletal pain, emotion, cognition, and physical function in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder. Design: Two-phase, one-arm quasi-experimental design. Method: Phase 1: 11 participants completed one Tai Chi session, feasibility questionnaire, and were offered participation in Phase 2, a 12-week Tai Chi intervention. Ten participants participated in Phase 2. Pain intensity, interference, physical function scales, an emotional battery, and cognition tests were used for pre- and postintervention outcome measures. Paired t tests and thematic analysis were used for analysis. Findings: In Phase 1, most felt Tai Chi would benefit health (90.9%) and expressed interest in continuing Tai Chi (6.73 out of 7). Phase 2 results showed improvement in fear-affect (raw t = −2.64, p = .03; age adjusted t = −2.90, p = .02), fear–somatic arousal (raw t = −2.53, p = .035), List Sorting Working Memory (raw t = 2.62, p = .031; age adjusted t = 2.96, p = .018), 6-Minute Walk Test ( t = 3.541, p = .008), and current level of Pain Intensity ( t = −4.00, p = .004). Conclusions: Tai Chi is an acceptable, holistic treatment to individuals with musculoskeletal pain and posttraumatic stress disorder. It may reduce pain, improve emotion, memory, and physical function.
Incidental Prostate Adenocarcinoma in Cystoprostatectomy Specimens: Partial Versus Complete Prostate Sampling
Authors: Filter Emily R. , Gabril Manal Y. , Gomez Jose A. , Wang Peter Z. T. , Chin Joseph L. , Izawa Jonathan , Moussa Madeleine
Published: March 2017

Background. The rate of incidental prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa) detection in radical cystoprostatectomy (RCP) varies widely, ranging from 15% to 54%. Such variability may be explained by institutional differences in prostate grossing protocols. Either partial or complete submission of the prostate gland in RCP may result in detection of clinically insignificant or significant incidental PCa. The aim of the study was to compare the clinical significance of PCa in RCP specimens in partial versus complete sampling. Material. Seventy-two out of 158 RCP cases showed incidental PCa. The pathologic features, including Gleason score, margin status, extraprostatic extension (EPE), seminal vesicle invasion (SVI), PCa stage, and tumor volume, were assessed. Results. The 72 cases were divided into partial (n = 21, 29.1%) and complete sampling (n = 51, 70.8%) groups. EPE was detected in 13/72 (18.1%) with 11/13 (84.6%) cases in the complete group. Positive margins were present in 11/72 (15.3%) with 9/11 (81.8%) in the complete group. SVI was detected in 4/72 (5.6%) with 3/4 (75.0%) in the complete group. Overall, 4/72 (5.6%) had a Gleason score >7, all of which were in the complete group. Conclusion. Our data suggest that complete sampling of the prostate may be the ideal approach to grossing RCP specimens, allowing for greater detection of clinically significant incidental PCa.
Observing Life and Death in America
Authors: Thrasher Steven W.
Published: March 2017

Gary Younge on reporting on the 2016 presidential election and the prevalence of childhood gun deaths in the U.S.
Living on the Fringe in Post-Apartheid Cape Town
Authors: Levenson Zachary
Published: March 2017

South Africa’s post-apartheid government tried to use urban policy to reverse racial segregation. But as shack settlements proliferated on urban peripheries, squatters came to be viewed as a threat to the state rather than its beneficiaries. In Cape Town, urban policy has entrenched, rather than reversed, racially segregated settlement patterns.
Class, Culture, and Resentment
Authors: Lachmann Richard
Published: March 2017

Richard Lachmann reviews J.D. Vance’s Hillbilly Elegy.
Personal Transformation in RNs Who Recently Graduated From an RN to BSN Program
Authors: Becker Annette L.
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore experiences of personal transformation and development of self-authorship in registered nurses (RNs) who recently completed an RN to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. A content analysis was performed on the qualitative data obtained from semistructured interviews with 14 RNs. Experiences of personal transformation and development of self-authorship fell into two categories: changes in self included having gained (1) a broader perspective, (2) confidence, and (3) awareness and clarity, and changes in practice included feeling (1) more well rounded as a nurse, (2) more confidence in practice, and (3) having acquired new skills. Meaningful changes occurred in this sample of RNs, shedding light on characteristics of personal transformation in the context of learning. Development of self-authorship differed by age-groups. Research is recommended to explore ways to encourage personal transformation and development of self-authorship and whether these changes in RNs have an impact on patient care outcomes.
Who Tweets in the United Kingdom? Profiling the Twitter Population Using the British Social Attitudes Survey 2015
Authors: Sloan Luke
Published: March 2017

The headache any researcher faces while using Twitter data for social scientific analysis is that we do not know who tweets. In this article, we report on results from the British Social Attitudes Survey (BSA) 2015 on Twitter use. We focus on associations between using Twitter and three demographic characteristics—age, sex, and class (defined here as National Statistics Socio-Economic Classification [NS-SEC]). In addition to this, we compare findings from BSA 2015, treated as ground truth (known characteristics), with previous attempts to map the demographic nature of UK Twitter users using computational methods resulting in demographic proxies. Where appropriate, the datasets are compared with UK Census 2011 data to illustrate that Twitter users are not representative of the wider population. We find that there are a disproportionate number of male Twitter users, in relation to both the Census 2011 and previous proxy estimates; that Twitter users are predominantly young, but there are more older users than previously estimated; and that there are strong class effects associated with Twitter use.
Effect of Prime Blood Storage Duration on Clinical Outcome After Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Bishnoi Arvind Kumar , Garg Pankaj , Patel Kartik , Solanki Parth , Surti Jigar , Solanki Atul , Shah Komal , Patel Sanjay
Published: March 2017

Background:

In this study, we tested the hypothesis that in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with blood prime, the storage duration of the packed red blood cells (PRBCs) used in prime led to differences in postoperative complications and metabolic profiles of the patients.

Methods:

For this prospective observational study we included 400 pediatric patients undergoing cardiac operations using CPB and requiring PRBCs prime. To study the effect of storage duration of PRBCs on postoperative morbidity, mortality, and metabolic profile, patients were divided into four groups (based on storage duration of PRBCs used in prime). Group 1: ≤7 days, group 2: 8 to 14 days, group 3: 15 to 21 days, and group 4: >21 days.

Results:

On univariate analysis, patients transfused with PRBCs stored >14 days had significantly higher incidence of postoperative complications, for example, liver dysfunction, hematological complications, sepsis, and multiorgan failure. However, after regression analysis and adjusting for the other confounder’s effects, no significant association was found between storage duration of PRBCs and postoperative complications and mortality. Metabolic profile of PRBCs was observed to become deranged with increasing duration of storage. This, however, improved to near physiological range early after the initiation of CPB and remained normal one hour after weaning from CPB, irrespective of the storage duration.

Conclusion:

Storage duration of PRBCs used for priming the pediatric CPB circuit neither affects the metabolic profile of the patients on CPB or early after surgery, nor it has any association with postoperative complications and mortality.
Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection With an Intraparenchymal Course
Authors: Campanale Cosimo M. , Banka Puja , Sanders Stephen P.
Published: March 2017

An intraparenchymal course of the pulmonary venous pathway within one lung in anomalous pulmonary venous connection is a rare and poorly recognized variation. We report three new cases and summarize the remaining 19 known cases of this infrequent anomaly. We expect that this review will call attention to this unusual pattern of pulmonary venous drainage and enhance prospective diagnosis.
Adult Congenital Cardiac Care
Authors: Kogon Brian E. , Miller Kati , Miller Paula , Alsoufi Bahaaldin , Rosenblum Joshua M.
Published: March 2017

Background:

The Adult Congenital Heart Association (ACHA) is dedicated to supporting patients with congenital heart disease. To guide patients to qualified providers and programs, it maintains a publicly accessible directory of dedicated adult congenital cardiac programs. We analyzed the directory in 2006 and 2015, aiming to evaluate the growth of the directory as a whole and to evaluate the growth of individual programs within the directory. We also hope this raises awareness of the growing opportunities that exist in adult congenital cardiology and cardiac surgery.

Methods:

Data in the directory are self-reported. Only data from US programs were collected and analyzed.

Results:

By the end of 2015, compared to 2006, there were more programs reporting to the directory in more states (107 programs across 42 states vs 57 programs across 33 states), with higher overall clinical volume (591 vs 164 half-day clinics per week, 96,611 vs 34,446 patient visits). On average, each program was busier (5 vs 2 half-day clinics per week per program). Over the time period, the number of reported annual operations performed nearly doubled (4,346 operations by 210 surgeons vs 2,461 operations by 125 surgeons). Access to ancillary services including specific clinical diagnostic and therapeutic services also expanded.

Conclusion:

Between 2006 and 2015, the clinical directory and the individual programs have grown. Current directory data may provide benchmarks for staffing and services for newly emerging and existing programs. Verifying the accuracy of the information and inclusion of all programs will be important in the future.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Fractional-order scheme for bovine babesiosis disease and tick populations
Authors: Zafar Zain Ul Abadin , Rehan Kashif , Mushtaq M
Published: March 2017

This article shows epidemic model, earlier suggested in ordinary differential equation philosophy, can be extended to fractional order on a reliable agenda of biological comportment. A set of domains for the model wherein allvariables are limited is established. Furthermore, the stability and existence of steadiness points are studied. We present the evidence that the endemic equilibrium (EE) point is locally asymptotically stable when reproduction number $R_{0} > 1$

R
0

>
1
. This outcome is attained via the linearization statement for fractional differential equations (FDEs). The worldwide asymptotic stability of a disease-free point, when $R_{0} < 1$

R
0

<
1
, is also verified by comparison theory for fractional differential equations. The numeric replications for diverse consequences are carried out, and data attained are in good agreement with theoretical outcomes, displaying a vital perception about the use of the set of fractional coupled differential equations to model babesiosis disease and tick populations.
Predicting the targeting of tail-anchored proteins to subcellular compartments in mammalian cells
Authors: Costello Joseph L. , Castro Inês G. , Camões Fátima , Schrader Tina A. , McNeall Doug , Yang Jing , Giannopoulou Evdokia-Anastasia , Gomes Sílvia , Pogenberg Vivian , Bonekamp Nina A. , Ribeiro Daniela , Wilmanns Matthias , Jedd Gregory , Islinger Markus , Schrader Michael
Published: March 2017

Tail-anchored (TA) proteins contain a single transmembrane domain (TMD) at the C-terminus that anchors them to the membranes of organelles where they mediate critical cellular processes. Accordingly, mutations in genes encoding TA proteins have been identified in a number of severe inherited disorders. Despite the importance of correctly targeting a TA protein to its appropriate membrane, the mechanisms and signals involved are not fully understood. In this study, we identify additional peroxisomal TA proteins, discover more proteins that are present on multiple organelles, and reveal that a combination of TMD hydrophobicity and tail charge determines targeting to distinct organelle locations in mammals. Specifically, an increase in tail charge can override a hydrophobic TMD signal and re-direct a protein from the ER to peroxisomes or mitochondria and vice versa. We show that subtle changes in those parameters can shift TA proteins between organelles, explaining why peroxisomes and mitochondria have many of the same TA proteins. This enabled us to associate characteristic physicochemical parameters in TA proteins with particular organelle groups. Using this classification allowed successful prediction of the location of uncharacterized TA proteins for the first time.
The sole LSm complex in Cyanidioschyzon merolae associates with pre-mRNA splicing and mRNA degradation factors
Authors: Reimer Kirsten A. , Stark Martha R. , Aguilar Lisbeth-Carolina , Stark Sierra R. , Burke Robert D. , Moore Jack , Fahlman Richard P. , Yip Calvin K. , Kuroiwa Haruko , Oeffinger Marlene , Rader Stephen D.
Published: March 2017

Proteins of the Sm and Sm-like (LSm) families, referred to collectively as (L)Sm proteins, are found in all three domains of life and are known to promote a variety of RNA processes such as base-pair formation, unwinding, RNA degradation, and RNA stabilization. In eukaryotes, (L)Sm proteins have been studied, inter alia, for their role in pre-mRNA splicing. In many organisms, the LSm proteins form two distinct complexes, one consisting of LSm1–7 that is involved in mRNA degradation in the cytoplasm, and the other consisting of LSm2–8 that binds spliceosomal U6 snRNA in the nucleus. We recently characterized the splicing proteins from the red alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae and found that it has only seven LSm proteins. The identities of CmLSm2–CmLSm7 were unambiguous, but the seventh protein was similar to LSm1 and LSm8. Here, we use in vitro binding measurements, microscopy, and affinity purification-mass spectrometry to demonstrate a canonical splicing function for the C. merolae LSm complex and experimentally validate our bioinformatic predictions of a reduced spliceosome in this organism. Copurification of Pat1 and its associated mRNA degradation proteins with the LSm proteins, along with evidence of a cytoplasmic fraction of CmLSm complexes, argues that this complex is involved in both splicing and cytoplasmic mRNA degradation. Intriguingly, the Pat1 complex also copurifies with all four snRNAs, suggesting the possibility of a spliceosome-associated pre-mRNA degradation complex in the nucleus.