bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A genome-wide association study in the Japanese population identifies the 12q24 locus for habitual coffee consumption: The J-MICC Study
Authors: Nakagawa-Senda Hiroko , Hachiya Tsuyoshi , Shimizu Atsushi , Hosono Satoyo , Oze Isao , Watanabe Miki , Matsuo Keitaro , Ito Hidemi , Hara Megumi , Nishida Yuichiro , Endoh Kaori , Kuriki Kiyonori , Katsuura-Kamano Sakurako , Arisawa Kokichi , Nindita Yora , Ibusuki Rie , Suzuki Sadao , Hosono Akihiro , Mikami Haruo , Nakamura Yohko , Takashima Naoyuki , Nakamura Yasuyuki , Kuriyama Nagato , Ozaki Etsuko , Furusyo Norihiro , Ikezaki Hiroaki , Nakatochi Masahiro , Sasakabe Tae , Kawai Sayo , Okada Rieko , Hishida Asahi , Naito Mariko , Wakai Kenji , Momozawa Yukihide , Kubo Michiaki , Tanaka Hideo
Published: January 2018

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide, and its role in human health has received much attention. Although genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have investigated genetic variants associated with coffee consumption in European populations, no such study has yet been conducted in an Asian population. Here, we conducted a GWAS to identify common genetic variations that affected coffee consumption in a Japanese population of 11,261 participants recruited as a part of the Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort (J-MICC) study. Coffee consumption was collected using a self-administered questionnaire, and converted from categories to cups/day. In the discovery stage (n = 6,312), we found 2 independent loci (12q24.12–13 and 5q33.3) that met suggestive significance (P < 1 × 10−6). In the replication stage (n = 4,949), the lead variant for the 12q24.12–13 locus (rs2074356) was significantly associated with habitual coffee consumption (P = 2.2 × 10−6), whereas the lead variant for the 5q33.3 locus (rs1957553) was not (P = 0.53). A meta-analysis of the discovery and replication populations, and the combined analysis using all subjects, revealed that rs2074356 achieved genome-wide significance (P = 2.2 × 10−16 for a meta-analysis). These findings indicate that the 12q24.12-13 locus is associated with coffee consumption among a Japanese population.
Prohibitin 2 localizes in nucleolus to regulate ribosomal RNA transcription and facilitate cell proliferation in RD cells
Authors: Zhou Zilong , Ai Huihan , Li Kun , Yao Xinlei , Zhu Wenbin , Liu Lei , Yu Chunlei , Song Zhenbo , Bao Yongli , Huang Yanxin , Wu Yin , Zheng Lihua , Sun Ying , Wang Guannan , Ma Kewei , Sun Luguo , Li Yuxin
Published: January 2018

Prohibitin 2 (PHB2), as a conserved multifunctional protein, is traditionally localized in the mitochondrial inner membrane and essential for maintenance of mitochondrial function. Here, we investigated the role of PHB2 in human rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) RD cells and found substantial localization of PHB2 in the nucleolus. We demonstrated that PHB2 knockdown inhibited RD cell proliferation through inducing cell cycle arrest and suppressing DNA synthesis. Meanwhile, down-regulation of PHB2 also induced apoptosis and promoted differentiation in fractions of RD cells. In addition, PHB2 silencing led to altered nucleolar morphology, as observed by transmission electron microscopy, and impaired nucleolar function, as evidenced by down-regulation of 45S and 18S ribosomal RNA synthesis. Consistently, upon PHB2 knockdown, occupancy of c-Myc at the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) promoter was attenuated, while more myoblast determination protein 1 (MyoD) molecules bound to the rDNA promoter. In conclusion, our findings suggest that nucleolar PHB2 is involved in maintaining nucleolar morphology and function in RD cells by regulating a variety of transcription factors, which is likely to be one of the underlying mechanisms by which PHB2 promotes tumor proliferation and represses differentiation. Our study provides new insight into the pathogenesis of RMS and novel characterizations of the highly conserved PHB2 protein.
Vascular endothelial effects of collaborative binding to platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1)
Authors: Kiseleva Raisa Yu. , Greineder C. F. , Villa C. H. , Marcos-Contreras O. A. , Hood E. D. , Shuvaev V. V. , DeLisser H. M. , Muzykantov V. R.
Published: January 2018

Targeting drugs to endothelial cells has shown the ability to improve outcomes in animal models of inflammatory, ischemic and thrombotic diseases. Previous studies have revealed that certain pairs of ligands (antibodies and antibody fragments) specific for adjacent, but distinct, epitopes on PECAM-1 enhance each other’s binding, a phenomenon dubbed Collaborative Enhancement of Paired Affinity Ligands, or CEPAL. This discovery has been leveraged to enable simultaneous delivery of multiple therapeutics to the vascular endothelium. Given the known role of PECAM-1 in promoting endothelial quiescence and cell junction integrity, we sought here to determine if CEPAL might induce unintended vascular effects. Using a combination ofin vitroandin vivotechniques and employing human and mouse endothelial cells under physiologic and pathologic conditions, we found only modest or non-significant effects in response to antibodies to PECAM-1, whether given solo or in pairs. In contrast, these methods detected significant elevation of endothelial permeability, pro-inflammatory vascular activation, and systemic cytokine release following antibody binding to the related endothelial junction protein, VE-Cadherin. These studies support the notion that PECAM-1-targeted CEPAL provides relatively well-tolerated endothelial drug delivery. Additionally, the analysis herein creates a template to evaluate potential toxicities of vascular-targeted nanoparticles and protein therapeutics.
Statins do not increase Markers of Cerebral Angiopathies in patients with Cardioembolic Stroke
Authors: Martí-Fàbregas Joan , Medrano-Martorell Santiago , Merino Elisa , Prats-Sánchez Luis , Marín Rebeca , Delgado-Mederos Raquel , Camps-Renom Pol , Martínez-Domeño Alejandro , Gómez-Choco Manuel , Lara Lidia , Casado-Naranjo Ignacio , Cánovas David , Torres Maria José , Freijo Marimar , Calleja Ana , Bravo Yolanda , Cocho Dolores , Rodríguez-Campello Ana , Zandio Beatriz , Fuentes Blanca , de Felipe Alicia , Llull Laura , Maestre José , Hernández María , Garcés Moisès , De Arce-Borda Ana Maria , Palomeras Ernest , Rodríguez-Yáñez Manuel , Díaz-Maroto Inma , Serrano Marta , Fernández-Domínguez Jéssica , Sanahuja Jordi , Purroy Francisco , Zedde Marialuisa , Delgado-Mengual Jordi , Gich Ignasi
Published: January 2018

We investigated whether pre-treatment with statins is associated with surrogate markers of amyloid and hypertensive angiopathies in patients who need to start long-term oral anticoagulation therapy. A prospective multicenter study of patients naive for oral anticoagulants, who had an acute cardioembolic stroke. MRI was performed at admission to evaluate microbleeds, leukoaraiosis and superficial siderosis. We collected data on the specific statin compound, the dose and the statin intensity. We performed bivariate analyses and a logistic regression to investigate variables associated with microbleeds. We studied 470 patients (age 77.5 ± 6.4 years, 43.7% were men), and 193 (41.1%) of them received prior treatment with a statin. Microbleeds were detected in 140 (29.8%), leukoaraiosis in 388 (82.5%) and superficial siderosis in 20 (4.3%) patients. The presence of microbleeds, leukoaraiosis or superficial siderosis was not related to pre-treatment with statins. Microbleeds were more frequent in patients with prior intracerebral hemorrhage (OR 9.7, 95% CI 1.06–90.9) and in those pre-treated antiplatelets (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.09–2.53). Prior treatment with statins was not associated with markers of bleeding-prone cerebral angiopathies in patients with cardioembolic stroke. Therefore, previous statin treatment should not influence the decision to initiate or withhold oral anticoagulation if these neuroimaging markers are detected.
Nuclear RIPK3 and MLKL contribute to cytosolic necrosome formation and necroptosis
Authors: Weber Kathrin , Roelandt Ria , Bruggeman Inge , Estornes Yann , Vandenabeele Peter
Published: January 2018

Necroptotic signaling converges in the assembly of a cytosolic signaling platform, the necrosome, with the activation of its downstream effector, MLKL. RIPK1 and RIPK3, key components of the necrosome, act as signaling intermediates for the activation of MLKL. We report that RIPK3 and MLKL continuously shuttle between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, whereas RIPK1 is constitutively present in both compartments. During TNF-induced necroptosis, nuclear RIPK1 becomes ubiquitinated, after which nuclear MLKL becomes phosphorylated and oligomerized. Pharmacological inhibition of the nuclear export machinery leads to retention of RIPK3 and MLKL in the nucleus, prevents the nucleation of cytosolic RIPK3/MLKL oligomerization, and reduces cell death. Our results suggest that passage of necroptotic signaling components through the nucleus is a mechanism for regulating cytosolic necrosome formation and consequently necroptotic cell death.
X-ray photochemistry of carbon hydride molecular ions
Authors: Puglisi Alessandra , Miteva Tsveta , Kennedy Eugene T. , Mosnier Jean-Paul , Bizau Jean-Marc , Cubaynes Denis , Sisourat Nicolas , Carniato Stéphane
Published: January 2018

Ultrafast electronic and nuclear dynamics induced by X-ray absorption in carbon hydride molecular ions are theoretically investigated.
Triarylmethyl-based 2D covalent networks: virtual screening of chemical functionalisation for optimising strain-induced property control
Authors: Alcón I. , Bromley S. T.
Published: January 2018

Using computationally efficient virtual screening we assess the performance of 2D covalent networks based on functionalised triarylmethyl radical building blocks.
Exotic species with explicit noble metal–noble gas–noble metal linkages
Authors: Moreno Norberto , Restrepo Albeiro , Hadad C. Z.
Published: January 2018

In Pt2Ng2F4and in [Au2Ng2F4]2+, Ng = Kr, Xe, Rn, the noble gas atoms act as links bridging two noble metal atoms.
A photoelectron spectroscopy and quantum chemical study on ternary Al–B–O clusters: AlnBO2− and AlnBO2 (n = 2, 3)
Authors: Ou Ting , Feng Yuan , Tian Wen-Juan , Zhao Li-Juan , Kong Xiang-Yu , Xu Hong-Guang , Zheng Wei-Jun , Zhai Hua-Jin
Published: January 2018

Dictated by sequential and competitive oxidation of B versus Al centers, ternary Al2BO2−/0 and Al3BO2−/0 clusters do not possess a BO2 unit despite its structural robustness.
Synthesis, characterization and derivatization of hydroxyl-functionalized iron(ii) bis(NHC) complexes
Authors: Lindhorst Anja C. , Kaspar Manuel , Altmann Philipp J. , Pöthig Alexander , Kühn Fritz E.
Published: January 2018

Esterification reactions are applied for the derivatization of a novel hydroxyl-functionalized NHC/pyridine hybrid ligand and the corresponding iron complexes.
Effective regeneration of LiCoO2 from spent lithium-ion batteries: a direct approach towards high-performance active particles
Authors: Shi Yang , Chen Gen , Chen Zheng
Published: January 2018

A green, simple and energy-efficient strategy that combines hydrothermal treatment and short thermal annealing has been developed to recycle and regenerate faded lithium ion battery cathode materials with high electrochemical performance.
A rapid and simple single-stage method for Ca separation from geological and biological samples for isotopic analysis by MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Lanping Feng , Zhou Lian , Yang Lu , Zhang Wen , Wang Qian , Shuoyun Tong , Hu Zhaochu
Published: January 2018

A simple and rapid single-step Ca separation method implemented by using a combination of a DGA column and vacuum box.
A quantitative and temporal map of proteostasis during heat shock inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Jarnuczak Andrew F. , Albornoz Manuel Garcia , Eyers Claire E. , Grant Christopher M. , Hubbard Simon J.
Published: January 2018

Temporal changes in the yeast proteome under heat stress are mapped and integrated to protein networks to reveal cognate groups of chaperones (orange and blue circles) acting on coherent groups of substrate proteins (red and green).
A green approach for synthesizing silver nanoparticles, and their antibacterial and cytotoxic activities
Authors: He Yangqing , Li Xing , Zheng Yuyu , Wang Zhiyan , Ma Zhanying , Yang Qian , Yao Binghua , Zhao Yingjuan , Zhang Hao
Published: January 2018

A simple approach using Nelumbo nucifera seeds for synthesizing silver nanoparticles with potential antibacterial and cytotoxic activities was described.
Target-activated cascaded digestion amplification of exonuclease III aided signal-on and ultrasensitive fluorescence detection of ATP
Authors: Leng Xueqi , Li Rongguo , Wang Yu , Wu Yunping , Tu Yuqin , Pei Qianqian , Cui Xuejun , Huang Jiadong , Liu Su
Published: January 2018

In this work, a rapid, one-step and ultrasensitive signal-on fluorescence sensing for the detection of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) based on target-activated cascaded digestion amplification with Exo III aid was developed.
Synthesis of a novel HER2 targeted aza-BODIPY–antibody conjugate: synthesis, photophysical characterisation and in vitro evaluation
Authors: Cheng Miffy. H. Y. , Maruani Antoine , Savoie Huguette , Chudasama Vijay , Boyle Ross. W.
Published: January 2018

We report the synthesis and analysis of a novel aza-BODIPY–antibody conjugate, formed by controlled and regioselective bioconjugation methodology. The conjugate targets HER2 positive cancers, represents an excellent example of fluorophore in NIR fluorescence imaging.
Dopamine@Nanodiamond as novel reinforcing nanofillers for polyimide with enhanced thermal, mechanical and wear resistance performance
Authors: Qin Songlv , Cui Mingjun , Qiu Shihui , Zhao Haichao , Wang Liping , Zhang Afang
Published: January 2018

In this study, to achieve a homogeneous dispersion of nanodiamond (ND) in a polyimide (PI) matrix and a strong interfacial adhesion between ND and the PI matrix, a biomimetic nondestructive dopamine chemistry was employed for surface modification of ND.
Stable and non-toxic ultrasmall gadolinium oxide nanoparticle colloids (coating material = polyacrylic acid) as high-performance T1 magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents
Authors: Miao Xu , Ho Son Long , Tegafaw Tirusew , Cha Hyunsil , Chang Yongmin , Oh In Taek , Yaseen Ahmad Mohammad , Marasini Shanti , Ghazanfari Adibehalsadat , Yue Huan , Chae Kwon Seok , Lee Gang Ho
Published: January 2018

Stable and non-toxic ultrasmall Gd2O3 nanoparticle colloids as high-performance T1 MRI-CA were developed.
Comparative advantages of Zn–Cu–In–S alloy QDs in the construction of quantum dot-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Yue Liang , Rao Huashang , Du Jun , Pan Zhenxiao , Yu Juan , Zhong Xinhua
Published: January 2018

Benefiting from the accelerative electron injection and retarded charge recombination, Zn–Cu–In–S alloy QD based QDSC achieved a PCE of 8.55%, which is 21%, and 82% higher than those of CIS/ZnS, and pristine CIS QDs based solar cells, respectively.
Retracted Article: Effect of temperature and large guest molecules on the C–H symmetric stretching vibrational frequencies of methane in structure H and I clathrate hydrates
Authors: Fuseya Go , Takeya Satoshi , Hachikubo Akihiro
Published: January 2018

Temperature effects on C–H symmetric stretching frequencies of CH4 in water cages of sI and sH clathrate hydrates were clarified.
Excellent oxygen evolution reaction of NiO with a layered nanosphere structure as the cathode of lithium–oxygen batteries
Authors: Dong Hongyu , Tang Panpan , Zhang Shiquan , Xiao Xinglu , Jin Cheng , Gao Yicong , Yin Yanhong , Li Bing , Yang Shuting
Published: January 2018

A layered nanosphere structured NiO catalyst was synthesized by a simple and efficient hydrothermal method as a cathode material for lithium–oxygen (Li–O2) batteries.
Synergistic effect of the valence bond environment and exposed crystal facets of the TiO2/SnS2heterojunction for achieving enhanced electrocatalytic oxygen evolution
Authors: Li Mengyan , Liu Hui , Lv Ting , Ding Meng
Published: January 2018

Cost-effective and high-performance electrocatalysts are vital factors that affect the development of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER).
Ultrahigh-flux and fouling-resistant membranes based on layered silver/MXene (Ti3C2Tx) nanosheets
Authors: Pandey Ravi P. , Rasool Kashif , Madhavan Vinod E. , Aïssa Brahim , Gogotsi Yury , Mahmoud Khaled A.
Published: January 2018

The 21% Ag@MXene composite membrane demonstrated an ultra-high water flux of 420 L m−2h−1bar−1and high rejection efficiency for organic molecules with excellent flux recovery.
Comprehensive resistive switching behavior of hybrid polyvinyl alcohol and TiO2 nanotube nanocomposites identified by combining experimental and density functional theory studies
Authors: Pham Ngoc Kim , Vu Nam Hoang , Van Pham Viet , Ta Hanh Kieu Thi , Cao Thi Minh , Thoai Nam , Tran Vinh Cao
Published: January 2018

The enhanced resistive switching performance and carrier trapping/de-trapping mechanism of hybrid PVA–TiO2 nanocomposite is reported.
QoS‐driven power and time allocation scheme for spectrum leasing in overlay cognitive radio networks
Authors: Roumeliotis Anargyros J. , Vassaki Stavroula , Panagopoulos Athanasios D.
Published: January 2018

The coexistence of a primary user (PU) with a secondary user (SU) is studied in an overlay cognitive radio network (CRN) which is proposed as an efficient technique to treat with the problem of spectrum underutilisation. A cooperative spectrum leasing process under the decode and forward protocol is considered among the PU and SU. Assuming users' specific Quality of Service requirements, a joint power and time allocation scheme for maximising the PU's cooperative effective capacity subject to minimum SU's and PU's effective capacities and maximum SU's instantaneous power transmission constraints is proposed. Its performance is close to the optimal one, that is computed using the exhaustive search scheme. A two‐step solution is applied considering the fundamentals of convex optimisation theory and closed‐form power and time expressions are extracted. As simulation results prove, the proposed scheme outperforms a less sophisticated scheme considering power allocation under constant time. Finally, the proposed algorithm is incorporated in a multi‐user CRN scenario where efficient matchings among the PUs and the SUs are investigated targeting to the increase of PUs' cooperative performance applying the matching theory.
Impacts of heterogeneous environment awareness and power structure on green supply chain
Authors: Xue Musen , Zhang Jianxiong
Published: January 2018

In this study, we employ a game-theory-based framework to model power structure and consumers’ heterogeneity toward the environmental level of products in a green supply chain and examine how consumer’s heterogeneity and power structure affect green product development and the performance of green supply chain. The key findings indicate that it can be optimal for the retailer to charge a higher selling price in the integrated supply chain, which is contrast to previous finding in the literature. Importantly, we identify a condition where there is no power conflict in the green supply chain, which indicates that the manufacturer is willing to drop its power while the retailer is willing to possess power resulting in a “power equilibrium”. Also, heterogeneous environment awareness of consumer considerably affect the value of channel integration. Overlooking heterogeneous responses would result in either undercutting or overestimating the benefit from channel integration.
Aminocarbonylation of N-Containing Heterocycles with Aromatic Amines Using Mo(CO)6
Authors: Piguel Sandrine , Mamone Marius , Aziz Jessy , Le Bescont Julie
Published: January 2018

We describe herein the palladium-catalyzed aminocarbonylation of nitrogen-containing heterocycles with aniline derivatives using molybdenum hexacarbonyl as a CO solid source, expanding the scope of the limited examples. This method is compatible with a variety of substitutions on the aniline moiety. The simple reaction conditions include easily available Pd(dppf)Cl2 catalyst, DBU as base in DMF at 120 °C for 3 hours in sealed tube thereby leading to the isolation of 21 compounds with yields ranging from 18 to 82%. We also show that double aminocarbonylation reactions are possible in satisfactory yields regarding both coupling partners.
Rhabdomyosarcoma of the Head and Neck: A Multimodal Approach
Authors: Casey Dana , Wolden Suzanne
Published: January 2018

Head and neck rhabdomyosarcoma (HNRMS) is a uniquely challenging site to treat given the young patient age and critical anatomy of the head and neck region. We review the characteristics, management, and future directions in the treatment of HNRMS. Most patients who present with HNRMS have unresectable disease due to functional and/or cosmetic constraints. However, surgical resection and brachytherapy serve a critical role in select patients. The treatment paradigm for the majority of patients with HNRMS consists of definitive chemotherapy and radiation therapy. As the incidence of late toxicities increases with improved survival, modern efforts must focus on ways to decrease long-term morbidity. We recommend a multimodal approach emphasizing the preservation of form and function for the treatment of HNRMS.
Antenatal Medical Therapies to Improve Lung Development in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Kashyap Aidan , DeKoninck Philip , Crossley Kelly , Thio Marta , Polglase Graeme , Russo Francesca , Deprest Jan , Hooper Stuart , Hodges Ryan
Published: January 2018

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect characterized by failed closure of the diaphragm, allowing abdominal viscera to herniate into the thoracic cavity and subsequently impair pulmonary and vascular development. Despite improving standardized postnatal management, there remains a population of severe CDH for whom postnatal care falls short. In these severe cases, antenatal surgical intervention (fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion [FETO]) may improve survival; however, FETO increases the risk of preterm delivery, is not widely offered, and still fails in half of cases. Antenatal medical therapies that stimulate antenatal pulmonary development are therefore interesting alternatives. By presenting the animal research underpinning novel antenatal medical therapies for CDH, and considering the applications of these therapies to clinical practice, this review will explore the future of antenatal CDH management with a focus on the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor sildenafil.
Candida nivariensis Urinary Tract Infection in an Extremely Low-Birth-Weight Neonate
Authors: Malloy Katherine M. , Nichols Kristen R. , Thomas Anna E.
Published: January 2018

We report on the diagnosis and treatment of a Candida nivariensis urinary tract infection in an extremely low-birth-weight neonate. The isolate was identified by MALDI-TOF technology and is the first known report of C. nivariensis in the neonatal or pediatric population. Treatment was initiated with amphotericin B deoxycholate and later completed with intravenous fluconazole following susceptibility results.
Gastroduodenal intussusception and pylorus obstruction induced by a c-KIT-negative gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Zhou Yong , Wu Xu-Dong , Shi Quan , Xu Chuan-hai , Jia Jing
Published: January 2018

Introduction Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are infrequently reported to cause gastroduodenal intussusception, especially in the cases with complete pylorus obstruction. GISTs comprise only 1 – 3 % of all gastrointestinal tract tumors, and most of them strongly express the c-KIT protein. Approximately 5 % of GISTs show negative staining of c-KIT.

Case presentation A 69-year-old man complained of acute abdominal pain accompanied with nausea and vomiting for 6 hours. Emergency endoscopic examination, upper gastroenterography, and computed tomography scan suggested gastroduodenal intussusception and pylorus obstruction induced by a gastric GIST. Laparoscopic exploration and wedge resection of the tumor were performed in the patient. Postoperative histological examination showed a gastric GIST with c-KIT-negative expression.

Conclusion Herein, we report the unique findings of a c-KIT-negative gastric GIST presenting with gastroduodenal intussusception and pylorus obstruction. We also reviewed the English language literature of gastroduodenal intussusception induced by GISTs and put our case in the context of the previously reported cases.
Screening interval recommendations following a normal colonoscopy in individuals with a familial risk of colorectal cancer
Authors: Plath Jasper , Siebenhofer Andrea , Guethlin Corina , Blumenstein Irina
Published: January 2018

Background In view of the increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) in individuals with affected first-degree relatives (FDRs), the German evidence-based S3 guideline recommends having the first screening colonoscopy early and then, following a normal examination, repeating it at least every 10 years. The aim of this analysis was to explore colonoscopy interval recommendations in clinical practice among individuals aged < 55 years with a familial risk of CRC.

Methods We analyzed data from the FRIDA.Frankfurt study. Patients aged 40 – 54 years with at least 1 reported FDR with CRC (excluding suspected/known hereditary cancer syndromes) and a normal colonoscopy result (no findings) were included. Data on colonoscopist recommendations for intervals between subsequent colonoscopies were extracted from colonoscopy reports.

Results Of 63 reports of normal colonoscopies, 20 (32 %) did not include a recommendation on when to undergo a further colonoscopy. Of 43 reports with recommendations, 40 (93 %) suggested an interval that was shorter than the recommended maximum interval in the guideline: 1 (2 %) was for a 3-year interval, 37 (86 %) were for 5-year intervals, and 2 (5 %) were for 8-year intervals.

Conclusions Although the low number of cases limits generalizability, the results indicate that recommended intervals in clinical practice are considerably shorter than the recommended maximum interval in the guideline.
Lithium and Renal Impairment: A Review on a Still Hot Topic
Authors: Nielsen René , Kessing Lars , Nolen Willem , Licht Rasmus
Published: January 2018

Introduction Lithium is established as an effective treatment of mania, of depression in bipolar and unipolar disorder, and in maintenance treatment of these disorders. However, due to the necessity of monitoring and concerns about irreversible adverse effects, in particular renal impairment, after long-term use, lithium might be underutilized.

Methods This study reviewed 6 large observational studies addressing the risk of impaired renal function associated with lithium treatment and methodological issues impacting interpretation of results.

Results An increased risk of renal impairment associated with lithium treatment is suggested. This increased risk may, at least partly, be a result of surveillance bias. Additionally, the earliest studies pointed toward an increased risk of end-stage renal disease associated with lithium treatment, whereas the later and methodologically most sound studies do not.

Discussion The improved renal outcome found in the more recent lithium studies may be a result of improved monitoring and focus on recommended serum levels (preferentially 0.6–0.8 mmol/L) as compared to poorer renal outcome in studies with patients treated in the 1960s to 1980s.
A large reversible room temperature magneto-caloric effect in Ni-TM-Co-Mn-Sn (TM = Ti, V, Cr) meta-magnetic Heusler alloys
Authors: Kim S. J. , Ryu W. H. , Oh H. S. , Park E. S.
Published: January 2018

Herein, we achieved a large reversible room temperature magneto-caloric effect (MCE) through synergic tuning of martensitic transformation (MT) temperatures and transition entropy change (ΔStr) via micro-alloying with transition metals (Ti, V, and Cr) in Ni45Co5Mn40Sn10 meta-magnetic Heusler alloys (MHAs). By the minor addition of TM, MT temperatures were brought down to below room temperature and ΔStr was reduced while maintaining narrow MT temperature range (ΔT) and large difference in magnetization (ΔM) of Ni45Co5Mn40Sn10 MHA. In particular, Ni43.8Cr1.2Co5Mn40Sn10 MHA exhibited a very large reversible room temperature magnetic entropy change (ΔSM) of 24.5 J/kg·K with a broad operating temperature window of ∼11 K at 5 T. Indeed, the MHA exhibited a very effective refrigeration capacity (RCeff) of 276 J/kg for 5 T, which is the largest value among the reported Ni-Mn-based MHAs. The decrease of ΔStr reduces the magnetic field required for completely reversible MT and accelerates the saturation of ΔSM, which leads to maximum RCeff value in the composition of MHA. Thus, we can conclude that smaller ΔStr with narrow ΔT and large ΔM is a key variable to develop MHA with reversible MCE under low magnetic field, which will ultimately give us a guideline for the tailor-made design of high-performance magneto-caloric materials.
Evolution and transition mechanisms of internal swirling flows with tangential entry
Authors: Wang Yanxing , Wang Xingjian , Yang Vigor
Published: January 2018

The characteristics and transition mechanisms of different states of swirling flow in a cylindrical chamber have been numerically investigated using the Galerkin finite element method. The effects of the Reynolds number and swirl level were examined, and a unified theory connecting different flow states was established. The development of each flow state is considered as a result of the interaction and competition between basic mechanisms: (1) the centrifugal effect, which drives an axisymmetric central recirculation zone (CRZ); (2) flow instabilities, which develop at the free shear layer and the central solid-body rotating flow; (3) the bouncing and restoring effects of the injected flow, which facilitate the convergence of flow on the centerline and the formation of bubble-type vortex breakdown; and (4) the damping effect of the end-induced flow, which suppresses the development of the instability waves. The results show that the CRZ, together with the free shear layer on its surface, composes the basic structure of swirling flow. The development of instability waves produces a number of discrete vortex cores enclosing the CRZ. The azimuthal wave number is primarily determined by the injection angle. Generally, the wave number is smaller at a higher injection angle, due to the reduction of the perimeter of the free shear layer. At the same time, the increase in the Reynolds number facilitates the growth of the wave number. The end-induced flow tends to reduce the wave number near the head end and causes a change in wave number from the head end to the downstream region. Spiral-type vortex breakdown can be considered as a limiting case at a high injection angle, with a wave number equal to 0 near the head end and equal to 1 downstream. At lower Reynolds numbers, the bouncing and restoring effect of the injected flow generates bubble-type vortex breakdown.
Electronic structure robustness and design rules for 2D colloidal heterostructures
Authors: Chu Audrey , Livache Clément , Ithurria Sandrine , Lhuillier Emmanuel
Published: January 2018

Among the colloidal quantum dots, 2D nanoplatelets present exceptionally narrow optical features. Rationalizing the design of heterostructures of these objects is of utmost interest; however, very little work has been focused on the investigation of their electronic properties. This work is organized into two main parts. In the first part, we use 1D solving of the Schrödinger equation to extract the effective masses for nanoplatelets (NPLs) of CdSe, CdS, and CdTe and the valence band offset for NPL core/shell of CdSe/CdS. In the second part, using the determined parameters, we quantize how the spectra of the CdSe/CdS heterostructure get affected by (i) the application of an electric field and (ii) by the presence of a dull interface. We also propose design strategies to make the heterostructure even more robust.
Modulated heavy nucleus-acoustic waves and associated rogue waves in a degenerate relativistic quantum plasma system
Authors: Sultana S. , Islam S. , Mamun A. A. , Schlickeiser R.
Published: January 2018

A theoretical and numerical investigation has been carried out on amplitude modulated heavy nucleus-acoustic envelope solitons (HNAESs) in a degenerate relativistic quantum plasma (DRQP) system containing relativistically degenerate electrons and light nuclei, and non-degenerate mobile heavy nuclei. The cubic nonlinear Schrödinger equation, describing the nonlinear dynamics of the heavy nucleus-acoustic waves (HNAWs), is derived by employing a multi-scale perturbation technique. The dispersion relation for the HNAWs is derived, and the criteria for the occurrence of modulational instability of the HNAESs are analyzed. The localized structures (viz., envelope solitons and associated rogue waves) are found to be formed in the DRQP system under consideration. The basic features of the amplitude modulated HNAESs and associated rogue waves formed in realistic DRQP systems are briefly discussed.
Magnetically tunable oil droplet lens of deep-sea shrimp
Authors: Iwasaka M. , Hirota N. , Oba Y.
Published: January 2018

In this study, the tunable properties of a bio-lens from a deep-sea shrimp were investigated for the first time using magnetic fields. The skin of the shrimp exhibited a brilliantly colored reflection of incident white light. The light reflecting parts and the oil droplets in the shrimp’s skin were observed in a glass slide sample cell using a digital microscope that operated in the bore of two superconducting magnets (maximum strengths of 5 and 13 T). In the ventral skin of the shrimp, which contained many oil droplets, some comparatively large oil droplets (50 to 150 μm in diameter) were present. A distinct response to magnetic fields was found in these large oil droplets. Further, the application of the magnetic fields to the sample cell caused a change in the size of the oil droplets. The phenomena observed in this work indicate that the oil droplets of deep sea shrimp can act as lenses in which the optical focusing can be modified via the application of external magnetic fields. The results of this study will make it possible to fabricate bio-inspired soft optical devices in future.
Finite element analysis of displacement actuator based on giant magnetostrictive thin film
Authors: Yu Shaopeng , Wang Bowen , Zhang Changgeng , Cui Baozhi
Published: January 2018

With the rapid development of science and technology, mechanical and electrical equipment become more and more miniature. In order to achieve precise control in less than 1cm3, the giant magnetostrictive thin film has become a research hotspot. The micro displacement actuator with planar and arc film is designed by the dynamic coupling model based on J-A model and magneto-mechanical effect method which is proposed in this paper. The different structure and thickness of films are analyzed by COMSOL Multiphysics software when the current flows through driving coil. After comparing the simulation results with the test ones, it can be seen that the coupling model is accurate and the structure is reliable. At the same time, MATLAB is used to fit the current density-displacement curve and higher order equation is obtained, and then the feasibility of design can be verified. The actuator with arc structure had advantages of small volume, fast response, high precision, easy integration, etc., which has a broad application prospect in the field of vibration control, micro positioning, robot and so on.
Hydrodynamically Coupled Brownian Dynamics: A coarse-grain particle-based Brownian dynamics technique with hydrodynamic interactions for modeling self-developing flow of polymer solutions
Authors: Ahuja V. R. , van der Gucht J. , Briels W. J.
Published: January 2018

We present a novel coarse-grain particle-based simulation technique for modeling self-developing flow of dilute and semi-dilute polymer solutions. The central idea in this paper is the two-way coupling between a mesoscopic polymer model and a phenomenological fluid model. As our polymer model, we choose Responsive Particle Dynamics (RaPiD), a Brownian dynamics method, which formulates the so-called “conservative” and “transient” pair-potentials through which the polymers interact besides experiencing random forces in accordance with the fluctuation dissipation theorem. In addition to these interactions, our polymer blobs are also influenced by the background solvent velocity field, which we calculate by solving the Navier-Stokes equation discretized on a moving grid of fluid blobs using the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) technique. While the polymers experience this frictional force opposing their motion relative to the background flow field, our fluid blobs also in turn are influenced by the motion of the polymers through an interaction term. This makes our technique a two-way coupling algorithm. We have constructed this interaction term in such a way that momentum is conserved locally, thereby preserving long range hydrodynamics. Furthermore, we have derived pairwise fluctuation terms for the velocities of the fluid blobs using the Fokker-Planck equation, which have been alternatively derived using the General Equation for the Non-Equilibrium Reversible-Irreversible Coupling (GENERIC) approach in Smoothed Dissipative Particle Dynamics (SDPD) literature. These velocity fluctuations for the fluid may be incorporated into the velocity updates for our fluid blobs to obtain a thermodynamically consistent distribution of velocities. In cases where these fluctuations are insignificant, however, these additional terms may well be dropped out as they are in a standard SPH simulation. We have applied our technique to study the rheology of two different concentrations of our model linear polymer solutions. The results show that the polymers and the fluid are coupled very well with each other, showing no lag between their velocities. Furthermore, our results show non-Newtonian shear thinning and the characteristic flattening of the Poiseuille flow profile typically observed for polymer solutions.
Improvement in surface conditions of electroplated Fe-Pt thick-film magnets
Authors: Yanai T. , Honda J. , Hamamura R. , Omagari Y. , Yamada H. , Fujita N. , Takashima K. , Nakano M. , Fukunaga H.
Published: January 2018

Fe-Pt thick-films were electroplated on Ta, Ti, Co, Ni, and Cu plates (substrates) using a direct current, and the surface morphology, the magnetic properties, and the crystal structure of the films were evaluated. The films plated on the Co, Ni, and Cu substrates showed much smooth surface compared with those for the Ta and Ti ones, and we confirmed that the Cu plate was the most attractive substrate due to very small cracks after an annealing for L10 ordering. High coercivity (>800 kA/m) for the Cu substrate is almost the same as that for our previous study in which we employed the Ta substrate, and we found that the Cu plate is a hopeful substrate to improve the surface conditions of electroplated Fe-Pt thick-film magnets.
Laser direct writing (LDW) of magnetic structures
Authors: Alasadi Alaa , Claeyssens F. , Allwood D. A.
Published: January 2018

Laser direct writing (LDW) has been used to pattern 90nm thick permalloy (Ni81Fe19) into 1-D and 2-D microstructures with strong shape anisotropy. Sub-nanosecond laser pulses were focused with a 0.75 NA lens to a 1.85μm diameter spot, to achieve a fluence of approximately 350 mJ.cm-2 and ablate the permalloy film. Computer-controlled sample scanning then allowed structures to be defined. Scan speeds were controlled to give 30% overlap between successive laser pulses and reduce the extent of width modulation in the final structures. Continuous magnetic wires that adjoined the rest of the film were fabricated with widths from 650 nm - 6.75μm and magneto-optical measurements showed coercivity reducing across this width range from 47 Oe to 11 Oe. Attempts to fabricate wires narrower than 650nm resulted in discontinuities in the wires and a marked decrease in coercivity. This approach is extremely rapid and was carried out in air, at room temperature and with no chemical processing. The 6-kHz laser pulse repetition rate allowed wire arrays across an area of 4 mm x 0.18 mm to be patterned in 85 s.
Calculation of a solid/liquid surface tension: A methodological study
Authors: Dreher T. , Lemarchand C. , Soulard L. , Bourasseau E. , Malfreyt P. , Pineau N.
Published: January 2018

The surface tension of a model solid/liquid interface constituted of a graphene sheet surrounded by liquid methane has been computed using molecular dynamics in the Kirkwood-Buff formalism. We show that contrary to the fluid/fluid case, the solid/liquid case can lead to different structurations of the first fluid layer, leading to significantly different values of surface tension. Therefore we present a statistical approach that consists in running a series of molecular simulations of similar systems with different initial conditions, leading to a distribution of surface tensions from which an average value and uncertainty can be extracted. Our results suggest that these distributions converge as the system size increases. Besides we show that surface tension is not particularly sensitive to the choice of the potential energy cutoff and that long-range corrections can be neglected contrary to what we observed in the liquid/vapour interfaces. We have not observed the previously reported commensurability effect.
Vortex-chirality-dependent standing spin-wave modes in soft magnetic nanotubes
Authors: Yang Jaehak , Kim Junhoe , Kim Bosung , Cho Young-Jun , Lee Jae-Hyeok , Kim Sang-Koog
Published: January 2018

Spin-wave (SW) modes excited in cylindrical nanotubes of finite length were investigated using finite-element micromagnetic simulations. From the simulation results along with the relevant analytical interpretation, we found unique dynamic modes representative of a variety of standing SW modes. Those modes are controllable not only according to the geometric confinements of given nanotubes but also by the relative configuration of the vortex-chirality at both ends of the nanotubes. The asymmetric (symmetric) spin-wave dispersion originates from nonreciprocal (reciprocal) spin-wave propagations from the parallel (antiparallel) configuration of vortex chiralities at both ends of the nanotubes. Using a simple analytical model, we estimated the quantized dispersions of the excited modes that agree with the simulation results. This work facilitates further understanding of discrete standing SW modes in three-dimensional curvilinear nano-elements, such as cylindrical nanotubes, and opens up a broader and deeper perspective on chirality-dependent SW modes.
New Products
Authors: Mandelis Andreas
Published: January 2018

In order to supplement manufacturers’ information, this Department will welcome the submission by our readers of brief communications reporting measurements on the physical properties of materials which supersede earlier data or suggest new research applications.
Energy scheduling strategy for a photovoltaic/batteries bank/diesel generator power supply system for an off-grid house
Authors: Charfi Sana , Brahmi Nabiha , Atieh Ahmad , Chaabene Maher
Published: January 2018

A novel algorithm is proposed to control the overall energy produced by a photovoltaic/battery bank/diesel generator renewable energy system. A renewable energy system is used to supply an off-grid connected house in Sfax, Tunisia. The algorithm computes recurrently the battery depth of discharge and diesel consumption of the diesel generator and then forecasts the photovoltaic subsystem output power every two minutes ahead. The estimated power is computed using an auto-regressive moving average model associated with a Kalman filter. During each calculation loop, hybrid system energy scheduling is accomplished considering criteria that guarantee the maximum use of generated renewable energy, minimum diesel generator operational time, and full-load need satisfaction during the whole day. Numerical simulations for two typical sunny and cloudy days in Sfax, Tunisia, are conducted in order to validate the algorithm and to compare the performance of managed system behavior with that of a standard unmanaged system. It is shown that the proposed energy management system could save fuel consumption by as much as 11.27% in the sunny day and 9.17% in the cloudy day.
Plasma expulsion may protect objects within magnetic plasma confinement devices
Authors: Leahy Rhys
Published: January 2018

Computer simulations show how magnetic plasma expulsion might enable researchers to reduce losses and potentially insert instruments into a plasma without significantly affecting plasma properties.
Improving the efficacy of healthcare services for Aboriginal Australians
Authors: Gwynne Kylie , Jeffries Jr Thomas , Lincoln Michelle
Published: January 2018

Objective The aim of the present systematic review was to examine the enablers for effective health service delivery for Aboriginal Australians. Methods This systematic review was undertaken in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Papers were included if they had data related to health services for Australian Aboriginal people and were published between 2000 and 2015. The 21 papers that met the inclusion criteria were assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Seven papers were subsequently excluded due to weak methodological approaches. Results There were two findings in the present study: (1) that Aboriginal people fare worse than non-Aboriginal people when accessing usual healthcare services; and (2) there are five enablers for effective health care services for Australian Aboriginal people: cultural competence, participation rates, organisational, clinical governance and compliance, and availability of services. Conclusions Health services for Australian Aboriginal people must be tailored and implementation of the five enablers is likely to affect the effectiveness of health services for Aboriginal people. The findings of the present study have significant implications in directing the future design, funding, delivery and evaluation of health care services for Aboriginal Australians. What is known about the topic? There is significant evidence about poor health outcomes and the 10-year gap in life expectancy between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, and limited evidence about improving health service efficacy. What does this paper add? This systematic review found that with usual health care delivery, Aboriginal people experience worse health outcomes. This paper identifies five strategies in the literature that improve the effectiveness of health care services intended for Aboriginal people. What are the implications for practitioners? Aboriginal people fare worse in both experience and outcomes when they access usual care services. Health services intended for Aboriginal people should be tailored using the five enablers to provide timely, culturally safe and high-quality care.
Structure of the fission yeast actomyosin ring during constriction
Authors: Swulius Matthew T. , Nguyen Lam T. , Ladinsky Mark S. , Ortega Davi R. , Aich Samya , Mishra Mithilesh , Jensen Grant J.
Published: January 2018

Significance

Many eukaryotic cells divide using a contractile actomyosin ring, but its structure is unknown. Here we use new specimen preparation methods and electron cryotomography to image constricting rings directly in 3D, in a near-native state in the model organism
Schizosaccharomyces pombe
. Our images reveal the arrangement of individual actin filaments within the contracting actomyosin ring.