bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do You Feel the Same? Different Dominants of Theatrical Experience
Authors: Toome Heli-Liis
Published: January 2017

The aim of this article is to present an exploratory study of reception research of theatrical experiences of general audiences of spoken theatre performances in Tartu, Estonia. The research is based on a quantitative survey of the audiences of eight spoken theatre performances. Factor analysis is used to assemble 24 different performance characteristics into five factors: Aesthetic, Entertainment, Personally Challenging, Complexity and Conventionality Factor. The factor analysis also points out some possible overlaps (characteristics that could be included into different factors at the same time) between factors, particularly between the Aesthetic and Personally Challenging Factor. These overlaps could be explained by (1) the limits of the quantitative survey, (2) the language and (3) the performances included in the survey. The overlaps, from the perspective of the viewer being inspired, challenged and excited by the performance, are due to the reason that the performances are personally touching as well as demanding and are performed by skilful performers. The article discusses the point that aesthetically challenging performances can be thematically or artistically demanding for the viewer, if the viewer has a personal relationship to the theme.
La Famille Dansant. Investigating the Family Structure and Repertory of the Johannesénske Balletselskab
Authors: Fiskvik Anne Margrete
Published: January 2017

The performance history of the Johannesénske Balletselskab spans a long period. In different shapes, sizes and names the ensemble was on the road for 30 years. This article analyses the activities of the Johannesénske enterprise through the lenses of itinerant performance traditions. Two features are discussed in this article: the reliance on family members as performers and the ensemble’s diverse repertory. The ensemble featured a repertory popular in its own time, consisting chiefly of national and character dances as well as pantomimes. Arguably, an investigation of the ensemble’s performance history offers information on little explored perspectives of nineteenth century Nordic ballet. In particular, the Johannesénske Balletselskab offers insights into family structures and the repertoire typical of itinerant ensembles. This information is also useful on a more general level, given that there were several ensembles similar to the Johannesénske travelling in the Nordic countries that functioned similarly to La famille dansant. Through analysing the use of the repertoire, it can be shown that the Johannesénske enterprise was, in their programming, up to date as a “ballet ensemble”. The family kept up itinerant traditions through their use of children as performers and reliance on pantomimes. The Johannesénske ensemble is, therefore, especially valuable for revealing insights into dance practices and dance styles, which have, so far, been little researched.
Y seréis como Dios: La construcción de divinidades ludoficcionales en el contexto transhumanista
Authors: Gil Soldevilla Samuel , Rodríguez Serrano Aarón
Published: January 2017

El presente artículo explora la construcción de divinidades en los videojuegos y sus implicaciones narrativas a partir de una reflexión sobre la evolución tecnológica, el reencantamiento
mítico y el transhumanismo. Tras una revisión teórica sobre dichos conceptos, la investigación se basa en una metodología cualitativa mediante el análisis textual,
utilizando en primer lugar una clasificación de género basado en un modelo semánticopragmático de clasificación de elementos ludoficcionales, para posteriormente analizar
dos ejemplos representativos de los denominados God Games: Populous (Bullfrog, 1989) y Cities: Skylines (Colossal Order, 2015). Por un lado, dicho análisis pone de manifiesto una cristalización de los ideales y tensiones transhumanistas. Por otro lado, cada juego genera una teología propia, limitada por el propio diseño diegético, que va en dos direcciones: un
videojugador empoderado bajo propuestas de corte militar y politeísta, o la generación de escenarios de tipo económico basados en estrategias de higienismo y control social.
Technopoiesis as Complex Dynamic Knowledge Construction. A Biopoetic explanation of the Creative Convolution of Human, Natural, and Technological Sciences.
Authors: Guerra Juani , Ostergaard Svend
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we describe technopoiesis as the complex dynamics between four levels of an all-encompassing knowledge configuration. The first level corresponds to the interaction with the environment, mediated by representations and material forms. The second level involves the representations, for instance representations of force, which determine the interaction with the environment. The third level involves the use of material forms in the interaction, for instance using a stick to get hold of a piece of fruit. The fourth level is the technological level as such. From a view of Biopoetics that primarily understands technopoiesis as a synergic and dissipative process based on emergence and feedback conditions, our main contribution in this study consists in a dynamicist description of how these four levels interact with each other. Higher levels emerge from the lower ones, in a complex but deterministic process, where lower levels are also constrained by the higher ones.
Technopoïesis: Transmedia Mythologisation and the Unity of Knowedge
Authors: Azcárate Asunción López-Varela , Sussman Henry
Published: January 2017

It is difficult to explain why different disciplines are drawn to similar problems. Inter-relations are not always explainable by direct influence. It has been argued that any common ground derives from the fact that people share certain kinds of everyday experiences. Is ‘consilience’ or the unification of knowledge a utopia or a possibility, as William Whewell Edward Wilson would have it? This thematic issue of Icono14 explores the common premise underlying all human disciplines: the confirmation that technology has a direct impact upon sign production, distribution and reception and, thus, upon the entire system of human thought, cultural representation and cognition. The collection examines transmedial representations of technological advance by looking at their mythical shades of meanings as strategic narratives. As practical knowledge engaged in the creation and use of tools and machines as well as in the development of techniques and methods of organization that perform specific functions in making human life easier, the technologies of the past can shed some light on the future that emerging media can bring about for human groups.
Fotografía móvil y redes sociales: Prácticas de producción y socialización en jóvenes universitarios
Authors: Bañuelos Jacob
Published: January 2017

El presente estudio analiza los resultados de una exploración sobre prácticas de producción, consumo, socialización, privacidad y derechos de autor que realiza una muestra de 93 jóvenes universitarios mexicanos del Tecnológico de Monterrey-Ciudad de México, que estudian las carreras de Comunicación y Medios Digitales, Mercadotecnia Digital, Animación y Arte Digital. El estudio explora cómo estos nativos digitales usan los dispositivos móviles en sus prácticas de consumo, socialización y producción fotográfica en las redes sociales, mediante qué aplicaciones y qué conceptos tienen sobre privacidad y derechos de autor. El estudio revela una clara tendencia en los jóvenes a adquirir una progresiva cultura snapr frente a una cultura kodak.
High‐altitude incoherent‐scatter measurements at Jicamarca
Authors: Hysell D. L. , Milla M. A. , Woodman R. F.
Published: January 2017

In an attempt to reproduce experimental results obtained in the early days of operations, electron density profiles have been measured at the Jicamarca Radio Observatory at altitudes reaching L=2. The methodology involves using a combination of pulses, including pulses as long as 4 ms, and processing the data with matched filtering. The modern experiments are complicated by systemic, time‐dependent bias in the noise estimators as well as by clutter from satellites and space debris, including a geosynchronous satellite. Ultimately, experiment performance comparable to what was achieved in the original experiments could be achieved and should be surpassed in future experiments when all four of the Jicamarca transmitters will be utilized.
Crustal structure of southern Madagascar from receiver functions and ambient noise correlation: Implications for crustal evolution
Authors: Rindraharisaona E. J. , Tilmann F. , Yuan X. , Rümpker G. , Giese J. , Rambolamanana G. , Barruol G.
Published: January 2017

The Precambrian rocks of Madagascar were formed and/or modified during continental collision known as the Pan‐African orogeny. Aborted Permo‐Triassic Karoo rifting and the subsequent separation from Africa and India resulted in the formation of sedimentary basins in the west and volcanic activity predominantly along the margins. Many geological studies have documented the imprint of these processes, but little was known about the deeper structure. We therefore deployed seismic stations along an SE‐NW trending profile spanning nearly all geological domains of southern Madagascar. Here we focus on the crustal structure, which we determined based on joint analysis of receiver functions and surface waves derived from ambient noise measurements. For the sedimentary basin we document a thinning of the underlying crystalline basement by up to ∼60% to 13 km. The crustal velocity structure demonstrates that the thinning was accomplished by removal or exhumation of the lower crust. Both the Proterozoic and Archean crust have a 10 km thick upper crust and 10–12 km thick midcrust. However, in contrast to the typical structure of Proterozoic and Archean aged crust, the Archean lower crust is thicker and faster than the Proterozoic one, indicating possible magmatic intrusions; an underplated layer of 2–8 km thickness is present only below the Archean crust. The Proterozoic mafic lower crust might have been lost during continental collision by delamination or subduction or thinned as a result of extensional collapse. Finally, the Cretaceous volcanics along the east coast are characterized by thin crust (30 km) and very large VP/VS ratios.
Winter to summer oceanographic observations in the Arctic Ocean north of Svalbard
Authors: Meyer Amelie , Sundfjord Arild , Fer Ilker , Provost Christine , Villacieros Robineau Nicolas , Koenig Zoe , Onarheim Ingrid H. , Smedsrud Lars H. , Duarte Pedro , Dodd Paul A. , Graham Robert M. , Schmidtko Sunke , Kauko Hanna M.
Published: January 2017

Oceanographic observations from the Eurasian Basin north of Svalbard collected between January and June 2015 from the N‐ICE2015 drifting expedition are presented. The unique winter observations are a key contribution to existing climatologies of the Arctic Ocean, and show a ∼100 m deep winter mixed layer likely due to high sea ice growth rates in local leads. Current observations for the upper ∼200 m show mostly a barotropic flow, enhanced over the shallow Yermak Plateau. The two branches of inflowing Atlantic Water are partly captured, confirming that the outer Yermak Branch follows the perimeter of the plateau, and the inner Svalbard Branch the coast. Atlantic Water observed to be warmer and shallower than in the climatology, is found directly below the mixed layer down to 800 m depth, and is warmest along the slope, while its properties inside the basin are quite homogeneous. From late May onwards, the drift was continually close to the ice edge and a thinner surface mixed layer and shallower Atlantic Water coincided with significant sea ice melt being observed.
Adaptive homo‐backstepping tracking control for strict‐feedback systems in presence of unknown dead‐zones
Authors: Gao Qiang , Ji Yuehui , Zhou Hailaing , Li Junfang
Published: January 2017

An adaptive homo‐backstepping control for nonlinear strict‐feedback systems subjected to unknown actuator dead‐zone and disturbance is investigated. A sliding‐mode‐based integral filter is constructed and used to approximate the desired feedback control in the backstepping‐like recursive design technique. Subsequently, the problem of “explosion of complexity” is solved by obviating the analytic derivatives deduction for virtual control in the conventional backstepping technology. The actuator dead‐zone dynamic is modeled as the combination of a line and a disturbance‐like term, which makes the controller design simpler. The interconnected control module and filter module in the resulting closed‐loop system satisfy the input‐to‐state practically stability‐modularity condition, provided that the small‐gain theorem is exploited to ensure the stability of closed‐loop system. The proposed approach cannot only mitigate the effect of dead‐zone but also solve the problem of explosion of complexity in the previous literature. Numerical simulations performed on a manipulator with a brushed DC motor are introduced to illustrate the effectiveness of underlying control scheme.
Complementary High Spatial Resolution Methods in Materials Science and Engineering
Authors: Paris Oskar , Lang David , Li Jiehua , Schumacher Peter , Deluca Marco , Daniel Rostislav , Tkadletz Michael , Schalk Nina , Mitterer Christian , Todt Juraj , Keckes Jozef , Zhang Zaoli , Fritz‐Popovski Gerhard , Ganser Christian , Teichert Christian , Clemens Helmut
Published: January 2017

This review features the potential of modern high spatial resolution methods in materials science and engineering by presenting a selection of scientific examples covering bulk materials, as well as hard coatings, semiconductors, and mesoporous thin films. Complementary techniques are employed to study microstructure and/or texture and stresses in multiphase Mo‐, Al‐, and Mg‐base alloys, in several nitride‐ and boride‐based hard coatings, in silicon, as well as in mesoporous silica films. Although far from being comprehensive, the chosen examples aim at underlining the importance of modern electron microscopy based methods and of scattering/diffraction techniques at large scale neutron and synchrotron radiation facilities for modern materials research. In addition, atom probe tomography, Raman scattering and atomic force microscopy are also highlighted.
An Energy Approach to Determine the Martensite Morphology in Nanocrystalline NiTi
Authors: Petersmann Manuel , Pranger Wolfgang , Waitz Thomas , Antretter Thomas
Published: January 2017

The characteristic features of martensite in nanocrystalline Ni‐50 at %Ti are a compromise between interface and strain energies introduced into the material when a grain transforms from austenite to a finely laminated martensite structure. This paper focuses on the evaluation of these energies. Whereas for grain sizes <100 nm a single laminate is frequently observed, in larger grains the higher strain energy of this structure leads to hierarchical twinning. As the predominant contribution the strain energy is computed by the finite element method. Interface energies at the twin‐ as well as the grain‐boundaries are subsequently added. Suitable scaling relations yield the evolution of twin spacing and predict that multiple laminates become favorable at a diameter range of 70–90 nm.
Hierarchical monitoring of industrial processes for fault detection, fault grade evaluation, and fault diagnosis
Authors: Luo Lijia , Lovelett Robert J. , Ogunnaike Babatunde A.
Published: January 2017

Traditional process monitoring methods cannot evaluate and grade the degree of harm that faults can cause to an industrial process. Consequently, a process could be shut down inadvertently when harmless faults occur. To overcome such problems, we propose a hierarchical process monitoring method for fault detection, fault grade evaluation, and fault diagnosis. First, we propose fault grade classification principles for subdividing faults into three grades: harmless, mild, and severe, according to the harm the fault can cause to the process. Second, two‐level indices are constructed for fault detection and evaluation, with the first‐level indices used to detect the occurrence of faults while the second‐level indices are used to determine the fault grade. Finally, to identify the root cause of the fault, we propose a new online fault diagnosis method based on the square deviation magnitude. The effectiveness and advantages of the proposed methods are illustrated with an industrial case study. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 2781–2795, 2017
Large eddy simulation of inertial fiber deposition mechanisms in a vertical downward turbulent channel flow
Authors: Njobuenwu Derrick O. , Fairweather Michael
Published: January 2017

The deposition pattern of elongated inertial fibers in a vertical downward turbulent channel flow is predicted using large eddy simulation and Lagrangian particle tracking. Three dominant fibers deposition mechanisms are observed, namely, diffusional deposition for small inertial fibers, free‐flight deposition for large inertial fibers, and the interception mechanism for very elongated fibers. The fibers are found to exhibit orientation anisotropy at impact, which is strongly dependent on the fiber elongation. An increase in the fiber elongation increases the wall capture efficiency by the interception mechanism. The diffusional deposition mechanism is shown to dominate for fibers with large residence time,
, in the accumulation zone and small deposition velocities,
, while the free‐flight mechanism governs deposition for fibers with small
and large
. This study describes how particles deposit on a surface and, ultimately for many practical applications, how such deposition may promote fouling. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 1451–1465, 2017
New film‐coated tablet formulation of deferasirox is well tolerated in patients with thalassemia or lower‐risk MDS: Results of the randomized, phase II ECLIPSE study
Authors: Taher Ali T. , Origa Raffaella , Perrotta Silverio , Kourakli Alexandra , Ruffo Giovan Battista , Kattamis Antonis , Goh Ai‐Sim , Cortoos Annelore , Huang Vicky , Weill Marine , Merino Herranz Raquel , Porter John B.
Published: January 2017

Once‐daily deferasirox dispersible tablets (DT) have a well‐defined safety and efficacy profile and, compared with parenteral deferoxamine, provide greater patient adherence, satisfaction, and quality of life. However, barriers still exist to optimal adherence, including gastrointestinal tolerability and palatability, leading to development of a new film‐coated tablet (FCT) formulation that can be swallowed with a light meal, without the need to disperse into a suspension prior to consumption. The randomized, open‐label, phase II ECLIPSE study evaluated the safety of deferasirox DT and FCT formulations over 24 weeks in chelation‐naïve or pre‐treated patients aged ≥10 years, with transfusion‐dependent thalassemia or IPSS‐R very‐low‐, low‐, or intermediate‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes. One hundred seventy‐three patients were randomized 1:1 to DT (n = 86) or FCT (n = 87). Adverse events (overall), consistent with the known deferasirox safety profile, were reported in similar proportions of patients for each formulation (DT 89.5%; FCT 89.7%), with a lower frequency of severe events observed in patients receiving FCT (19.5% vs. 25.6% DT). Laboratory parameters (serum creatinine, creatinine clearance, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and urine protein/creatinine ratio) generally remained stable throughout the study. Patient‐reported outcomes showed greater adherence and satisfaction, better palatability and fewer concerns with FCT than DT. Treatment compliance by pill count was higher with FCT (92.9%) than with DT (85.3%). This analysis suggests deferasirox FCT offers an improved formulation with enhanced patient satisfaction, which may improve adherence, thereby reducing frequency and severity of iron overload‐related complications.
Associations between neurodevelopmental genes, neuroanatomy, and ultra high risk symptoms of psychosis in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Thompson Carlie A. , Karelis Jason , Middleton Frank A. , Gentile Karen , Coman Ioana L. , Radoeva Petya D. , Mehta Rashi , Fremont Wanda P. , Antshel Kevin M. , Faraone Stephen V. , Kates Wendy R.
Published: January 2017

22q11.2 deletion syndrome is a neurogenetic disorder resulting in the deletion of over 40 genes. Up to 40% of individuals with 22q11.2DS develop schizophrenia, though little is known about the underlying mechanisms. We hypothesized that allelic variation in functional polymorphisms in seven genes unique to the deleted region would affect lobar brain volumes, which would predict risk for psychosis in youth with 22q11.2DS. Participants included 56 individuals (30 males) with 22q11.2DS. Anatomic MR images were collected and processed using Freesurfer. Participants were genotyped for 10 SNPs in the COMT, DGCR8, GNB1L, PIK4CA, PRODH, RTN4R, and ZDHHC8 genes. All subjects were assessed for ultra high risk symptoms of psychosis. Allelic variation of the rs701428 SNP of RTN4R was significantly associated with volumetric differences in gray matter of the lingual gyrus and cuneus of the occipital lobe. Moreover, occipital gray matter volumes were robustly associated with ultra high risk symptoms of psychosis in the presence of the G allele of rs701428. Our results suggest that RTN4R, a relatively under‐studied gene at the 22q11 locus, constitutes a susceptibility gene for psychosis in individuals with this syndrome through its alteration of the architecture of the brain. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the Origin of Reactivity Enhancement/Suppression upon Sequential Ligation: [Re(CO)x]+/CH4 (x=0–3) Couples
Authors: Zhou Shaodong , Li Jilai , Schlangen Maria , Schwarz Helmut
Published: January 2017

The thermal gas‐phase reactions of rhenium carbonyl complexes [Re(CO)x]+ (x=0–3) with methane have been explored by using FT‐ICR mass spectrometry complemented by high‐level quantum chemical calculation. While it had been concluded in previous studies that addition of closed‐shell ligands in general decreases the reactivity of metal ions, the current work provides an exception: the previously demonstrated inertness of atomic Re+ towards methane is completely changed upon ligation with CO. Both [Re(CO)]+ and [Re(CO)2]+ bring about efficient dehydrogenation of the hydrocarbon under ambient conditions. However, addition of a third ligand to form [Re(CO)3]+ completely quenches the reactivity.
Transformation of Dipeptide‐Based Organogels into Chiral Crystals by Cryogenic Treatment
Authors: Liu Xingcen , Fei Jinbo , Wang Anhe , Cui Wei , Zhu Pengli , Li Junbai
Published: January 2017

Controlled molecular assembly is an important approach for the synthesis of single‐component materials with diverse functions. Unlike traditional heat treatment or solvent modulation, cryogenic treatment at 77 K enabled the tunable transition of a self‐assembled diphenylalanine organogel into a hexagonal crystal. Under these conditions, the assembled molecules undergo an internal rearrangement in the solid state to form a well‐defined chiral crystal structure. Moreover, these assemblies exhibit enhanced emission. This strategy for the synthesis of single‐component supramolecular assemblies can create new functions by manipulating phase transitions.
A family of silatrane‐armed triazole‐encapped salicylaldehyde‐derived Schiff bases: Synthesis, spectral analysis, and antimicrobial and quantum chemical evaluation
Authors: Singh Gurjaspreet , Arora Aanchal , Rani Sunita , Kalra Pooja , Aulakh Darpandeep , Wriedt Mario
Published: January 2017

This work describes the successful synthesis of salicylaldehyde‐derived Schiff base‐linked organosilicon compounds following a highly efficient click approach. Hydroxyl‐terminated Schiff bases were alkylated to bis‐acetylenes (1–3) which upon 3 + 2 cycloaddition with 3‐azidopropyltriethoxysilane yielded triazole‐decorated bis‐silanes (4–6). These silanes further underwent base‐catalyzed transesterification to afford Schiff base‐linked triazole‐bound organosilatranes (7–9). The final silatranes as well as precursor alkynes and silanes were comprehensively characterized using NMR (1H and 13C) and infrared spectroscopic techniques together with elemental analysis and mass spectrometry of compounds 7–9. Also, the structures of alkynes 1–3 and silatrane 7 were validated using single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography. Organosilatranes were initially screened for their pharmacokinetic profile using absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) tools and then explored for their antimicrobial activities, with compound 9 emerging as the most potent antimicrobial agent. Compounds 1–3 and 7–9 also underwent thorough computational analysis by applying the density functional theory (DFT) approach with B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level of theory and the results were found to be consistent with the experimental data. Several DFT‐based descriptors were also evaluated providing a valuable insight into molecular stability and reactivity.
Enhanced Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Activity in Peripheral Blood B Lymphocytes From Patients With Autoimmune Disease
Authors: Corneth Odilia B. J. , Verstappen Gwenny M. P. , Paulissen Sandra M. J. , de Bruijn Marjolein J. W. , Rip Jasper , Lukkes Melanie , van Hamburg Jan Piet , Lubberts Erik , Bootsma Hendrika , Kroese Frans G. M. , Hendriks Rudi W.
Published: January 2017

Objective

Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) transmits crucial survival signals from the B cell receptor (BCR) in B cells. Pharmacologic BTK inhibition effectively diminishes disease symptoms in mouse models of autoimmunity; conversely, transgenic BTK overexpression induces systemic autoimmunity in mice. We undertook this study to investigate BTK expression and activity in human B cells in the context of autoimmune disease.

Methods

Using intracellular flow cytometry, we quantified BTK expression and phosphorylation in subsets of peripheral blood B cells from 30 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 26 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS), and matched healthy controls.

Results

In circulating B cells, BTK protein expression levels correlated with BTK phosphorylation. BTK expression was up‐regulated upon BCR stimulation in vitro and was significantly higher in CD27+ memory B cells than in CD27−IgD+ naive B cells. Importantly, BTK protein and phospho‐BTK were significantly increased in B cells from anti–citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)–positive RA patients but not in B cells from ACPA‐negative RA patients. BTK was increased both in naive B cells and in memory B cells and correlated with frequencies of circulating CCR6+ Th17 cells. Likewise, BTK protein was increased in B cells from a major fraction of patients with primary SS and correlated with serum rheumatoid factor levels and parotid gland T cell infiltration. Interestingly, targeting T cell activation in patients with primary SS using the CTLA‐4Ig fusion protein abatacept restored BTK protein expression in B cells to normal levels.

Conclusion

These data indicate that autoimmune disease in humans is characterized by enhanced BTK activity, which is linked not only to autoantibody formation but also to T cell activity.
Recurrence after resection with curative intent for distal cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Komaya K , Ebata T , Shirai K , Ohira S , Morofuji N , Akutagawa A , Yamaguchi R , Nagino M , Aoba T , Kaneoka Y , Arai T , Shimizu Y , Fukami Y , Sakamoto E , Miyake H , Takara D , Tojima Y , Kawahara T , Mizuno S , Matsumoto N , Ota S , Takano M , Yamamoto H , Inoue M , Asaba Y , Watanabe T , Hashimoto M , Kawai S , Ikuta K , Matsubara H , Kondo S
Published: January 2017

Background

Few studies have been conducted on patterns of recurrence after resection for distal cholangiocarcinoma (DCC). The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and pattern of recurrence after resection of DCC, and to evaluate prognostic factors for time to recurrence and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

Methods

Patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy with curative intent for DCC between 2001 and 2010 at one of 30 hospitals in Japan were reviewed retrospectively, with special attention to recurrence patterns. The Cox proportional hazards model was used for multivariable analysis.

Results

In the study interval, 389 patients underwent pancreatoduodenectomy for DCC with R0/M0 status. Recurrence developed in 213 patients (54·8 per cent). The estimated cumulative probability of recurrence was 54·3 per cent at 5 years. An initial locoregional recurrence occurred in 55 patients (14·1 per cent) and initial distant recurrence in 168 (43·2 per cent), most commonly in the liver. Isolated initial locoregional recurrence occurred in 45 patients (11·6 per cent). Independent prognostic factors for time to recurrence and RFS were perineural invasion (P = 0·001 and P = 0·009 respectively), pancreatic invasion (both P < 0·001) and lymph node metastasis (both P < 0·001). RFS worsened as the number of risk factors increased: the 5-year RFS rate was 70·6 per cent for patients without any risk factors, 50·3 per cent for patients with one factor, 31·8 per cent for those with two factors, and 13·4 per cent when three factors were present.

Conclusion

More than half of patients with DCC experienced recurrence after R0 resection, usually within 5 years. Perineural invasion, pancreatic invasion and positive nodal involvement are risk factors for recurrence.
Edge‐hydroxylated Boron Nitride for Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Propane to Propylene
Authors: Shi Lei , Wang Dongqi , Song Wei , Shao Dan , Zhang Wei‐Ping , Lu An‐Hui
Published: January 2017

Oxidative dehydrogenation of propane to olefins is a promising alternative route to industrialized direct dehydrogenation, but encounters the difficulty in selectivity control for olefins because of the overoxidation reactions that produce a substantial amount of undesired CO2. Here we report edge‐hydroxylated boron nitride, a metal‐free catalyst, that efficiently catalyzed dehydrogenation of propane to propylene with superior selectivity (80.2 %) but with only negligible CO2 formation (0.5 %) at a given propane conversion of 20.6 %. Remarkable stability was evidenced by the operation of a 300 h test with steady conversion and product selectivity. The active BNO. site, generated dynamically through hydrogen abstraction of B−OH groups by molecular oxygen, triggered propane dehydrogenation by selectively breaking the C−H bond but simultaneously shut off the pathway of propylene overoxidation towards CO2.
Rapid and Quantitative Assessment of Redox Conduction Across Electroactive Biofilms by using Double Potential Step Chronoamperometry
Authors: Zhang Xu , Philips Jo , Roume Hugo , Guo Kun , Rabaey Korneel , Prévoteau Antonin
Published: January 2017

The mechanism of electron transport across electroactive biofilms (EABs) is of high interest and still a matter of debate. Quantitative assessments of their redox conduction take considerable time and require non‐turnover conditions (absence of substrate), which can be detrimental to EABs. Here, we measure the charge‐transport parameters of Geobacter spp. dominated EABs with double potential step chronoamperometry (DPSC) with Cottrell analysis. The DPSC measurement is simpler and much faster than usual techniques and allows the determination of the charge‐transport parameters even under turnover conditions. The electrochemical responses were well‐described by a model of redox conduction driven only by electron diffusion within the EAB. The apparent diffusion coefficient for the electron (Dapp) was measured as approximately 3.2×10−7 cm2 s−1, a value similar to those recorded for pure Geobacter sulfurreducens EABs, or for some redox polymers with comparable redox center concentrations. This method will be valuable for assessing the impact of EAB characteristics and environmental factors on the charge‐transport ability of the biofilm, and for determining the rate‐limiting step(s) for current production.
A 2D Metal Oxide Nanosheet as an Efficient Additive for Improving Na‐Ion Electrode Activity of Graphene‐Based Nanocomposites
Authors: Park Boyeon , Oh Seung Mi , Jin Xiaoyan , Adpakpang Kanyaporn , Lee Nam‐Suk , Hwang Seong‐Ju
Published: January 2017

An efficient way to improve the Na‐ion electrode activity of graphene‐based nanocomposite is developed by employing exfoliated metal oxide nanosheet as an additive. The titanate‐nanosheet‐incorporated Na–SnS2‐reduced graphene oxide (rG‐O) nanocomposites can be synthesized by the electrostatically derived restacking of the colloidal mixture of SnS2, rG‐O, and titanate nanosheets with the Na+ cation. The incorporation of titanate into the Na–SnS2–rG‐O nanocomposites is effective in improving the nanoscale mixing of component nanosheets and the porosity of the composite structure. The resulting nanocomposites deliver superior discharge capacities and rate properties to the titanate‐free nanocomposite. The universal applicability is further confirmed by MoS2–rG‐O nanocomposites upon the addition of titanate. This study highlights that the exfoliated metal oxide nanosheet can be used as an efficient additive for graphene‐based nanocomposites to explore Na‐ion electrode materials.
Uric acid predicts mortality and ischaemic stroke in subjects with diastolic dysfunction: the Tromsø Study 1994–2013
Authors: Norvik Jon V. , Schirmer Henrik , Ytrehus Kirsti , Storhaug Hilde M. , Jenssen Trond G. , Eriksen Bjørn O. , Mathiesen Ellisiv B. , Løchen Maja‐Lisa , Wilsgaard Tom , Solbu Marit D.
Published: January 2017

Aims

To investigate whether serum uric acid predicts adverse outcomes in persons with indices of diastolic dysfunction in a general population.

Methods and results

We performed a prospective cohort study among 1460 women and 1480 men from 1994 to 2013. Endpoints were all‐cause mortality, incident myocardial infarction, and incident ischaemic stroke. We stratified the analyses by echocardiographic markers of diastolic dysfunction, and uric acid was the independent variable of interest. Hazard ratios (HR) were estimated per 59 μmol/L increase in baseline uric acid. Multivariable adjusted Cox proportional hazards models showed that uric acid predicted all‐cause mortality in subjects with E/A ratio <0.75 (HR 1.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.25) or E/A ratio >1.5 (HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.09–2.09, P for interaction between E/A ratio category and uric acid = 0.02). Elevated uric acid increased mortality risk in persons with E‐wave deceleration time <140 ms or >220 ms (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.01–2.12 and HR 1.13, 95% CI 1.02–1.26, respectively; P for interaction = 0.04). Furthermore, in participants with isovolumetric relaxation time ≤60 ms, mortality risk was higher with increasing uric acid (HR 4.98, 95% CI 2.02–12.26, P for interaction = 0.004). Finally, elevated uric acid predicted ischaemic stroke in subjects with severely enlarged left atria (HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.03–2.53, P for interaction = 0.047).

Conclusions

Increased uric acid was associated with higher all‐cause mortality risk in subjects with echocardiographic indices of diastolic dysfunction, and with higher ischaemic stroke risk in persons with severely enlarged left atria.
Improving the Methods for the Economic Evaluation of Medical Devices
Authors: Tarricone Rosanna , Callea Giuditta , Ogorevc Marko , Prevolnik Rupel Valentina
Published: January 2017

Medical devices (MDs) have distinctive features, such as incremental innovation, dynamic pricing, the learning curve and organisational impact, that need to be considered when they are evaluated. This paper investigates how MDs have been assessed in practice, in order to identify methodological gaps that need to be addressed to improve the decision‐making process for their adoption.

We used the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklist supplemented by some additional categories to assess the quality of reporting and consideration of the distinctive features of MDs. Two case studies were considered: transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) representing an emerging technology and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) representing a mature technology. Economic evaluation studies published as journal articles or within Health Technology Assessment reports were identified through a systematic literature review. A total of 19 studies on TAVI and 41 studies on ICDs were analysed. Learning curve was considered in only 16% of studies on TAVI. Incremental innovation was more frequently mentioned in the studies of ICDs, but its impact was considered in only 34% of the cases. Dynamic pricing was the most recognised feature but was empirically tested in less than half of studies of TAVI and only 32% of studies on ICDs. Finally, organisational impact was considered in only one study of ICDs and in almost all studies on TAVI, but none of them estimated its impact.

By their very nature, most of the distinctive features of MDs cannot be fully assessed at market entry. However, their potential impact could be modelled, based on the experience with previous MDs, in order to make a preliminary recommendation. Then, well‐designed post‐market studies could help in reducing uncertainties and make policymakers more confident to achieve conclusive recommendations. © 2017 The Authors. Health Economics published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transmembrane Electron and Proton Transfer in Diheme‐Containing Succinate : Quinone Oxidoreductases
Authors: Lancaster C. Roy D. , Betz Yamila M. , Heit Sabine , Lafontaine Michael A.
Published: January 2017

An intricate case of charge migration in proteins is represented by the diheme‐containing class of succinate:quinone oxidoreductases, where, depending on the species and the direction of the reaction catalyzed in vivo, transmembrane electron transfer is either coupled to transmembrane proton transfer or not. The absence of compensatory transmembrane proton transfer results in an electrogenic overall reaction, as has been demonstrated for diheme‐containing succinate:menaquinone reductases. The presence of such a compensatory transmembrane proton transfer renders the overall reaction electroneutral, as has been shown to be the case for diheme‐containing menaquinol:fumarate reductases (QFR). The availability of high‐resolution X‐ray crystal structures of the diheme‐containing QFR from Wolinella succinogenes has inspired and enabled several theoretical and experimental studies providing proof and further characterization of these electron and proton transfer events.
Improving risk assessment of color additives in medical device polymers
Authors: Chandrasekar Vaishnavi , Janes Dustin W. , Forrey Christopher , Saylor David M. , Bajaj Akhil , Duncan Timothy V. , Zheng Jiwen , Riaz Ahmed Kausar B. , Casey Brendan J.
Published: January 2017

Many polymeric medical device materials contain color additives which could lead to adverse health effects. The potential health risk of color additives may be assessed by comparing the amount of color additive released over time to levels deemed to be safe based on available toxicity data. We propose a conservative model for exposure that requires only the diffusion coefficient of the additive in the polymer matrix,
, to be specified. The model is applied here using a model polymer (poly(ether‐block‐amide), PEBAX 2533) and color additive (quinizarin blue) system. Sorption experiments performed in an aqueous dispersion of quinizarin blue (QB) into neat PEBAX yielded a diffusivity
 = 4.8 × 10−10 cm2 s−1, and solubility
 = 0.32 wt %. On the basis of these measurements, we validated the model by comparing predictions to the leaching profile of QB from a PEBAX matrix into physiologically representative media. Toxicity data are not available to estimate a safe level of exposure to QB, as a result, we used a Threshold of Toxicological Concern (TTC) value for QB of 90 µg/adult/day. Because only 30% of the QB is released in the first day of leaching for our film thickness and calculated
, we demonstrate that a device may contain significantly more color additive than the TTC value without giving rise to a toxicological concern. The findings suggest that an initial screening‐level risk assessment of color additives and other potentially toxic compounds found in device polymers can be improved. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 310–319, 2018.
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Wang Qiuhong , Gao Sheng , Li Haibo , Lv Mingming , Lu Cheng
Published: January 2017

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are dysregulated in many cancer types, which are believed to play crucial roles in regulating several hallmarks of cancer biology. Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is a very aggressive subtype of normal breast cancer, which has features of negativity for ER, PR, and HER2. Great efforts have been made to identify an association between lncRNAs expression profiles and TNBC, and to understand the functional role and molecular mechanism on aberrant‐expressed lncRNAs. In this review, we summarized the existed knowledge on the systematics, biology, and function of lncRNAs. The advances from the most recent studies of lncRNAs in the predicament of breast cancer, TNBC, are highlighted, especially the functions of specifically selected lncRNAs. We also discussed the potential value of these lncRNAs in TNBC, providing clues for the diagnosis and treatments of TNBC.
Change in mineral weathering behaviors of a bacterium Chitinophaga jiangningensis JN53 under different nutrition conditions
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Wang Qi , He Linyan , Sheng Xiafang
Published: January 2017

Bacteria play important roles in mineral weathering and soil formation. However, little is known about the nutrition‐related changes in mineral weathering potential and pattern of bacteria. In this study, mineral weathering behaviors of a novel mineral‐weathering bacterium Chitinophaga jiangningensis JN53 were characterized in the presence of three contrasting biotite or potassium feldspar‐added media. C. jiangningensis JN53 increased more Fe release from the minerals in the M‐BHm (nutrition‐poor medium) than in the SSKM (nutrition‐rich medium) and BHm (nutrition‐moderate medium), while C. jiangningensis JN53 released more Al from the minerals and Si from biotite in the SSKM. Similar Si release from potassium feldspar by C. jiangningensis JN53 was observed in the SSKM, BHm, and M‐BHm. K releasing ability of C. jiangningensis JN53 was significantly higher in the biotite‐added M‐BHm. Highest and lowest growth of C. jiangningensis JN53 was observed in the SSKM and M‐BHm, respectively. In the presence of the minerals, C. jiangningensis JN53 mainly produced gluconic acid in the SSKM and acetic acid in the BHm and M‐BHm. C. jiangningensis JN53 also produced large amount of succinic acid in the biotite‐added SSKM and oxalic acid in the potassium feldspar‐added M‐BHm. The results showed the growth, production of organic acids, and mineral weathering ability of C. jiangningensis JN53 in the three contrasting nutrition conditions. The results also suggested the change in the mineral weathering behaviors of C. jiangningensis JN53 under different levels of nutrition conditions.
Human blood‐based anti‐inflammatory solution inhibits osteoarthritis progression in a meniscal‐tear rat study
Authors: King William , Bendele Alison , Marohl Taylor , Woodell‐May Jennifer
Published: January 2017

Current osteoarthritis (OA) research searches for treatments that modify the course of disease progression. Autologous Protein Solution (APS) is derived from whole blood and is a unique autologous therapy that contains high concentrations of white blood cells, platelets, and concentrated plasma, providing cytokines that can target the underlying mechanisms of disease progression. The APS Kit is currently under investigation for clinical use in the USA (NCT02262364). The aim of this study was to determine if APS has disease‐modifying properties in the well‐characterized rat meniscal tear‐induced model of OA. Thirty male athymic rats underwent surgery to induce OA by a complete tear of the medial meniscus of the right knee. Seven days later, rats were administered 50 μl intra‐articular (IA) APS from a human donor or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) control. Rats were euthanized 3 weeks following treatment and knee joints were processed for histological analysis. Collagen and cartilage degeneration were decreased by APS treatment, resulting in a significantly improved total joint score in APS‐treated rats compared to those treated with the PBS control. No significant variations in gait analysis, weight gain, osteophyte score, or synovitis score were observed between APS‐ and PBS‐treated animals. There were no adverse effects of APS reported in the study. Treatment with a single IA injection of APS reduced the cartilage degeneration that characterizes the progression of OA. Further studies are necessary to determine if APS can modify OA disease progression in humans. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2260–2268, 2017.
Application and bioactive properties of CaTI, a trypsin inhibitor from Capsicum annuum seeds: membrane permeabilization, oxidative stress and intracellular target in phytopathogenic fungi cells
Authors: Silva Marciele S , Ribeiro Suzanna FF , Taveira Gabriel B , Rodrigues Rosana , Fernandes Katia VS , Carvalho André O , Vasconcelos Ilka Maria , Mello Erica Oliveira , Gomes Valdirene M
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND

During the last few years, a growing number of antimicrobial peptides have been isolated from plants and particularly from seeds. Recent results from our laboratory have shown the purification of a new trypsin inhibitor, named CaTI, from chilli pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds. This study aims to evaluate the antifungal activity and mechanism of action of CaTI on phytopathogenic fungi and detect the presence of protease inhibitors in other species of this genus.

RESULTS

Our results show that CaTI can inhibit the growth of the phytopathogenic fungi Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and C. lindemuthianum. CaTI can also permeabilize the membrane of all tested fungi. When testing the inhibitor on its ability to induce reactive oxygen species, an induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) particularly in Fusarium species was observed. Using CaTI coupled to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), it was possible to determine the presence of the inhibitor inside the hyphae of the Fusarium oxysporum fungus. The search for protease inhibitors in other Capsicum species revealed their presence in all tested species.

CONCLUSION

This paper shows the antifungal activity of protease inhibitors such as CaTI against phytopathogenic fungi. Antimicrobial peptides, among which the trypsin protease inhibitor family stands out, are present in different species of the genus Capsicum and are part of the chemical arsenal that plants use to defend themselves against pathogens. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry