bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biofilm formation in Haas palatal expanders with and without use of an antimicrobial agent: an in situ study
Authors: Bagatin Cristhiane Ristum , Andrucioli Marcela Cristina Damião , Ferreira José Tarcísio Lima , Matsumoto Mírian Aiko Nakane , da Silva Raquel Assed Bezerra , da Silva Lea Assed Bezerra , Romano Fábio Lourenço , Nelson‐Filho Paulo
Published: December 2016

Orthodontic appliances causes specific alterations in oral environment, including reduction of pH, increase of dental biofilm and elevation of salivary microbial levels, causing an increased risk for dental caries. This study evaluated, using microbial culture and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the in situ contamination by mutans streptococci (MS) of different surfaces of Haas palatal expanders with and without use of chlorhexidine gluconate mouthrinses (CHX). Thirty‐four patients were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 17/group), using placebo (Group I) and 0.12% CHX (Group II—Periogard®) mouthrinses twice a week. After 4 months, appliances were submitted to microbiological processing and after fragments were analyzed by SEM. Mann–Whitney U test (α = 5%) was used to assess differences between groups on the appliances' different surfaces and to compare the contamination on the free and nonfree surfaces of these components. There was no difference (p = 0.999) between groups regarding the number of MS colonies/biofilms on the nonfree surfaces, which showed intense contamination. However, free surfaces of Group II presented less contamination (p < 0.001) than those of Group I in all appliances' components. Results of the microbial culture were confirmed by SEM. Use of 0.12% CHX was effective in reducing the formation of MS colonies/biofilms on free surfaces of Haas expanders, in situ.
De novo sequencing of highly modified therapeutic oligonucleotides by hydrophobic tag sequencing coupled with LC–MS
Authors: Goto R. , Miyakawa S. , Inomata E. , Takami T. , Yamaura J. , Nakamura Y.
Published: December 2016

Correct sequences are prerequisite for quality control of therapeutic oligonucleotides. However, there is no definitive method available for determining sequences of highly modified therapeutic RNAs, and thereby, most of the oligonucleotides have been used clinically without direct sequence determination. In this study, we developed a novel sequencing method called ‘hydrophobic tag sequencing’. Highly modified oligonucleotides are sequenced by partially digesting oligonucleotides conjugated with a 5′‐hydrophobic tag, followed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. 5′‐Hydrophobic tag‐printed fragments (5′‐tag degradates) can be separated in order of their molecular masses from tag‐free oligonucleotides by reversed‐phase liquid chromatography. As models for the sequencing, the anti‐VEGF aptamer (Macugen) and the highly modified 38‐mer RNA sequences were analyzed under blind conditions. Most nucleotides were identified from the molecular weight of hydrophobic 5′‐tag degradates calculated from monoisotopic mass in simple full mass data. When monoisotopic mass could not be assigned, the nucleotide was estimated using the molecular weight of the most abundant mass. The sequences of Macugen and 38‐mer RNA perfectly matched the theoretical sequences. The hydrophobic tag sequencing worked well to obtain simple full mass data, resulting in accurate and clear sequencing. The present study provides for the first time a de novo sequencing technology for highly modified RNAs and contributes to quality control of therapeutic oligonucleotides. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in a case‐control study of oral squamous cell carcinoma and its increasing trend in northeastern Thailand
Authors: Phusingha Pensiri , Ekalaksananan Tipaya , Vatanasapt Patravoot , Loyha Kulchaya , Promthet Supannee , Kongyingyoes Bunkerd , Patarapadungkit Natcha , Chuerduangphui Jureeporn , Pientong Chamsai
Published: December 2016

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an independent risk factor for development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This study aimed to investigate the role of HPV infection and the trend in percentage of HPV‐associated OSCC over a 5‐year period in northeastern Thailand. In this case‐control study, 91 exfoliated oral cell samples and 80 lesion cell samples from OSCC cases and exfoliated oral cells from 100 age/gender‐matched controls were collected. HPV infection was investigated by PCR using GP5+/GP6+ primers followed by HPV genotyping using reverse line blot hybridization. Quantitative RT‐PCR was used to evaluate HPV oncogene transcription. Temporal trends of HPV infection were evaluated in archived formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) OSCC tissues using in situ hybridization. HPV DNA was found in 17.5% (14/80) of lesion samples from OSCC cases and 29.7% (27/91) of exfoliated oral cell samples from the same cases. These values were significantly higher than in exfoliated oral cell samples from controls (13%, 13/100). HPV‐16 was the genotype most frequently found in OSCC cases (92.8%, 13/14 infected cases). Interestingly, HPV oncogene mRNA expression was detected and correlated with OSCC cases (P < 0.005). Of 146 archived FFPE OSCC samples, 82 (56.2%) were positive for high‐risk HPV DNA and 64 (43.8%) cases were positive for HPV E6/E7 mRNA expression. There was a trend of increasing percentage of HPV‐associated OSCC from 2005 to 2010. This was especially so for females with well‐differentiated tumors in specific tongue sub‐sites. We suggest that HPV infection plays an important role in oral carcinogenesis in northeastern Thailand.
Detection of HCV genotypes 1b and 2a by a reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification assay
Authors: Zhao Na , Liu Jinxia , Sun Dianxing
Published: December 2016

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 1b and 2a are the major cause of liver disease in northern China; however, conventional detection tools are labor‐consuming, technically demanding, and costly. Here, we assessed the specificity, sensitivity, and clinical utility of reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP) assay for detection of HCV genotypes 1b and 2a. Firstly, clinical samples were collected from HCV genotype 1b and 2a infected patients and the RNA were extracted. Secondly, specificity of RT‐LAMP assay for detection HCV genotypes 1b and 2a were tested against viral genomes of other hepatitis viruses. Sensitivity of RT‐LAMP assay was determined using serial dilutions of standard HCV genotypes 1b and 2a. The amplified products were detected by both electrophoresis and calcein/Mn2+‐dependent visual methods. Finally, we compared the clinical detection rate of RT‐LAMP to that of real‐time PCR. RT‐LAMP assay showed high specificity to detect HCV genotypes 1b and 2b since there was no cross‐reactivity with other hepatitis viruses. Sensitivity of RT‐LAMP was 100 IU/mL for both genotypes detected by either electrophoresis or calcein/Mn2+ ‐dependent visual methods. The detection rate of RT‐LAMP assay in clinical samples was also comparable to that of real‐time PCR without significant difference between the both assays. This study proposes a newly developed RT‐LAMP assay for detection of HCV genotypes 1b and 2a. RT‐LAMP is highly specific, sensitive, and simple diagnostic tool which would be useful for screening and early diagnosis of HCV especially in resource‐limited environments.
Prevalence of high‐risk human papillomavirus infection among women in Shaanxi province of China: A hospital‐based investigation
Authors: Cao Di , Zhang Shaohua , Zhang Qian , Wei Xing , Zhao Minyi , Ma Qian , Li Yang , Wang Li , Pei Meili , Yang Ting , Zhao Juan , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: December 2016

This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of female high‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) infection in Shaanxi province of China. A total of 14 111 women were enrolled for HPV genotyping test, and a cytology, and/or cervix biopsy were performed in partial women. Of these women, the HPV infection rate was 30.21%, and 26.73% were caused by HR‐HPV. The most common HR‐HPV genotypes were HPV‐16, HPV‐58, HPV‐52, HPV‐18, and HPV‐31. The prevalence of HR‐HPV among women older than 50 years was significantly higher than the other groups (P < 0.05). The main carcinogenic genotypes were HPV‐16, HPV‐18, HPV‐58, HPV‐52, and HPV‐31. HPV‐16 and HPV‐18 combined caused 80.79% of cervical cancer cases. The infection with multiple HR‐HPVs was not a risk factor for cervical lesions. In conclusion, HPV infection was common among women in Shaanxi province. Women older than 50 years were a high‐risk group for HR‐HPV infection and cervical cancer. HPV‐16 and HPV‐18 were the main carcinogenic genotypes in this region.
Ultrastructural abnormalities and loss of myelinated fibers in the corpus callosum of demyelinated mice induced by cuprizone
Authors: Xiu Yun , Cheng Guo‐hua , Peng Chao , Wang Yun , Li Yong‐de , Chao Feng‐lei , Tang Yong
Published: December 2016

It is now accepted that white matter abnormalities play an important role in demyelinating diseases and a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Experimental demyelination (especially induced by cuprizone) has been investigated extensively. However, details regarding demyelination and ultrastructural changes of myelinated fibers have not been previously reported. Therefore, we determined the extent of demyelination using quantitative stereology. Mice exposed to cuprizone in the current study showed abnormal anxiety‐like behavior without impaired spatial learning or memory. The myelinated fibers in whole corpus callosum of mice exposed to cuprizone showed extensive myelin deficiencies and occasional axonal injuries. The total length of the myelinated fibers in whole corpus callosum of mice exposed to cuprizone was significantly decreased by 45% compared with control mice. The loss of myelinated fibers was mainly due to the marked loss of the fibers with a diameter of 0.4 to 0.8 μm. The g‐ratio of the myelinated fibers in the corpus callosum of mice exposed to cuprizone (0.69 ± 0.02) was significantly decreased compared with control mice (0.76 ± 0.02). These results might help us to further understand the role of white matter abnormalities in demyelinating diseases or a wide range of psychiatric disorders. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In‐capillary probing of quantum dots and fluorescent protein self‐assembly and displacement using Förster resonance energy transfer
Authors: Wang Jianhao , Fan Jie , Li Jinchen , Liu Li , Wang Jianpeng , Jiang Pengju , Liu Xiaoqian , Qiu Lin
Published: December 2016

Herein, a Förster resonance energy transfer system was designed, which consisted of CdSe/ZnS quantum dots donor and mCherry fluorescent protein acceptor. The quantum dots and the mCherry proteins were conjugated to permit Förster resonance energy transfer. Capillary electrophoresis with fluorescence detection was used for the analyses for the described system. The quantum dots and mCherry were sequentially injected into the capillary, while the real‐time fluorescence signal of donor and acceptor was simultaneously monitored by two channels with fixed wavelength detectors. An effective separation of complexes from free donor and acceptor was achieved. Results showed quantum dots and hexahistidine tagged mCherry had high affinity and the assembly was affected by His6‐mCherry/quantum dot molar ratio. The kinetics of the self‐assembly was calculated using the Hill equation. The microscopic dissociation constant values for out of‐ and in‐capillary assays were 10.49 and 23.39 μM, respectively. The capillary electrophoresis with fluorescence detection that monitored ligands competition assay further delineated the different binding capacities of histidine containing peptide ligands for binding sites on quantum dots. This work demonstrated a novel approach for the improvement of Förster resonance energy transfer for higher efficiency, increased sensitivity, intuitionistic observation, and low sample requirements of the in‐capillary probing system.
Application of solid‐phase microextraction with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry for the early detection of active moulds on historical woollen objects
Authors: Sawoszczuk Tomasz , Syguła‐Cholewińska Justyna , del Hoyo‐Meléndez Julio M.
Published: December 2016

The goal of this work was to determine the microbial volatile organic compounds emitted by moulds growing on wool in search of particular volatiles mentioned in the literature as indicators of active mould growth. The keratinolytically active fungi were inoculated on two types of media: (1) samples of wool placed on broths, and (2) on broths containing amino acids that are elements of the structure of keratin. All samples were prepared inside 20 mL vials (closed system). In the first case (1) the broths did not contain any sources of organic carbon, nitrogen, or sulfur, i.e. wool was the only nutrient for the moulds. A third type of sample was historical wool prepared in a Petri dish without a broth and inoculated with a keratinolytically active mould (open system). The microbial volatiles emitted by moulds were sampled with the headspace solid‐phase microextraction method. Volatiles extracted on solid‐phase microextraction fibers were analyzed in a gas chromatography with mass spectrometry system. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of chromatograms were carried out in search of indicators of metabolic activity. The results showed that there are three groups of volatiles that can be used for the detection of active forms of moulds on woollen objects.
Simplified capillary isoelectric focusing with chemical mobilization for intact protein analysis
Authors: Zhu Guijie , Sun Liangliang , Dovichi Norman J.
Published: December 2016

We report a capillary isoelectric focusing system based on a sequential injection method for simplified chemical mobilization. This system was coupled to an ion trap mass spectrometer with an electrokinetically pumped nanoelectrospray interface. The nanoelectrospray emitter employed an acidic sheath electrolyte. To simplify focusing and mobilization, a plug of ammonium hydroxide was first injected into the capillary, followed by a section of mixed sample and ampholyte. During focusing, the NH3H2O section worked as catholyte. As focusing progressed, the NH3H2O section was titrated to lower pH by the acidic sheath electrolyte. Chemical mobilization started automatically once the ammonium hydroxide was consumed by the acidic sheath flow electrolyte, which then acted as the mobilization solution. In this report, the lengths of the NH3H2O section and sample were optimized. With a 1 m long capillary, a relative short plug of the NH3H2O section (3 cm) produced both fast migration and reasonable separation resolution. The simplified capillary isoelectric focusing mass spectrometry system produced base peak intensity relative standard deviation of 8.5% and migration time relative standard deviation ≤0.6% for myoglobin and cytochrome C in triplicate runs.
UHPLC–Q‐TOF‐MS‐based metabolomics approach to compare the saponin compositions of Xueshuantong injection and Xuesaitong injection
Authors: Yao Changliang , Yang Wenzhi , Zhang Jingxian , Qiu Shi , Chen Ming , Shi Xiaojian , Pan Huiqin , Wu Wanying , Guo Dean
Published: December 2016

Various traditional Chinese medicine preparations developed from Notoginseng total saponins, including Xueshuantong injection and Xuesaitong injection, are extensively used in China to treat cardiocerebrovascular diseases. However, the difference of their saponin compositions remains unknown. An ultra high performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry based metabolomics approach was developed to probe the saponin discrimination between Xueshuantong and Xuesaitong and the related factors by large sample analysis. A highly efficient chromatographic separation was achieved on an HSS T3 column within 20 min with the holistic metabolites information recorded in the negative MSE mode. A six‐step data pretreatment procedure mainly based on Progenesis QI and mass defect filtering was established. Pattern recognition chemometrics was used to discover the potential saponin markers. The saponin composition of Wuzhou Xueshuantong showed distinct discrimination from the other products. Wuzhou Xueshuantong contains more abundant protopanaxatriol‐type noto‐R1, Rg1, Re, and protopanaxadiol‐type Rb1, but less Rd and other low‐polarity protopanaxadiol‐type ginsenosides. These differences could not directly correlate to the use of different parts of Panax notoginseng, but possibly to the different preparation techniques employed by different manufacturers. These results are beneficial to the establishment of pharmacopoeia standards and the assessment of the efficacy and adverse drug reactions for these homologous products.
Innovative method for the enrichment of high‐polarity bioactive molecules present at low concentrations in complex matrices
Authors: Liu Qing‐Shan , He Jie , Zhou Wen‐Bin , Gu Yu‐Long , Huang Huoqiang , Li Ke‐Qin , Yin Xiao‐Ying
Published: December 2016

Ginsenoside Rg1 is a valuable bioactive molecule but its high polarity and low concentration in complex mixtures makes it a challenge to separate Ginsenoside Rg1 from other saponins with similar structures, resulting in low extraction efficiency. The successful development of effective Rg1 molecularly imprinted polymers that exhibit high selectivity and adsorption may offer an improved method for the enrichment of active compounds. In this work, molecularly imprinted polymers were prepared with two different methods, precipitation polymerization or surface imprinted polymerization. Comparison of the adsorption abilities showed higher adsorption of the surface molecularly imprinted polymers prepared by surface imprinted polymerization, 46.80 mg/g, compared to the 27.74 mg/g observed for the molecularly imprinted polymers prepared by precipitation polymerization. Therefore, for higher adsorption of the highly polar Rg1, surface imprinted polymerization is a superior technique to make Rg1 molecularly imprinted polymers. The prepared surface molecularly imprinted polymers were tested as a solid‐phase extraction column to directionally enrich Rg1 and its analogues from ginseng tea and total ginseng extracts. The column with surface molecularly imprinted polymers showed higher enrichment efficiency and better selectivity than a C18 solid‐phase extraction column. Overall, a new, innovative method was developed to efficiently enrich high‐polarity bioactive molecules present at low concentrations in complex matrices.
Middle cranial fossa approach to repair tegmen defects assisted by three‐dimensionally printed temporal bone models
Authors: Ahmed Sameer , VanKoevering Kyle K. , Kline Stephanie , Green Glenn E. , Arts H. Alexander
Published: December 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To explore the perioperative utility of three‐dimensionally (3D)‐printed temporal bone models of patients undergoing repair of lateral skull base defects and spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks with the middle cranial fossa approach.

Study Design

Case series.

Methods

3D‐printed temporal bone models—based on patient‐specific, high‐resolution computed tomographic imaging—were constructed using inexpensive polymer materials. Preoperatively, the models demonstrated the extent of temporal lobe retraction necessary to visualize the proposed defects in the lateral skull base. Also preoperatively, Silastic sheeting was arranged across the modeled tegmen, marked, and cut to cover all of the proposed defect sites. The Silastic sheeting was then sterilized and subsequently served as a precise intraoperative template for a synthetic dural replacement graft. Of note, these grafts were customized without needing to retract the temporal lobe.

Results

Five patients underwent the middle cranial fossa approach assisted by 3D‐printed temporal bone models to repair tegmen defects and spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks. No complications were encountered. The prefabricated dural repair grafts were easily placed and fit precisely onto the middle fossa floor without any additional modifications. All defects were covered as predicted by the 3D temporal bone models. At their postoperative visits, all five patients maintained resolution of their spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks.

Conclusions

Inexpensive 3D‐printed temporal bone models of tegmen defects can serve as beneficial adjuncts during lateral skull base repair. The models provide a panoramic preoperative view of all tegmen defects and allow for custom templating of dural grafts without temporal lobe retraction.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 127:2347–2351, 2017
Watershed Health Characterization Using Reliability–Resilience–Vulnerability Conceptual Framework Based on Hydrological Responses
Authors: Hazbavi Zeinab , Sadeghi Seyed Hamidreza R.
Published: December 2016

An attempt was made to employ the reliability (Rel)–resilience (Res)–vulnerability (Vul) conceptual framework to develop a typical indicator system for quantitative assessment of watershed health. The study aimed to conceptualize and customize the RelResVul framework to watershed health assessment for the Shazand Watershed in Markazi Province, Iran, for the period of 1977–2014. To this end, four easily, reliable, available and accessible criteria viz. standardized precipitation index (SPI), low and high flow discharges (LFD and HFD), and suspended sediment concentration (SSC) were selected, and corresponding indices for reliability–resilience–vulnerability (RelResVul) framework were accordingly conceptualized and calculated. The thresholds of 0.1, 0.16 m3 s−1, 12.63 m3 s−1 and 25 mg l−1 day−1 were thus selected for SPI, LFD, HFD and SSC, respectively. The results showed a decreasing trend in Rel and Res, and an increasing trend in Vul for SPI and LFD in the Shazand Watershed. The results further showed an increasing trend in Rel, and a decreasing trend in Vul for HFD and SSC. A decreasing trend was ultimately recognized in watershed health index for all criteria except SSC. Additionally, the integrated hydrological watershed health index of 0.16 ± 0.11 obtained from the geometric mean of the RelResVul framework indices also showed a decreasing trend for the Shazand Watershed health during the study period. The results of the present initiative study can be considered as a baseline by decision makers and managers to effectively adjust watershed management strategies to handle land degradation issues in the area. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Raindrop Temperatures on Soil Runoff and Erosion in Dry and Wet Soils. A Laboratory Experiment
Authors: Sachs Eyal , Sarah Pariente
Published: December 2016

The effect of raindrop temperatures on runoff generation and erosion on clayey soil was investigated in sprinkling experiments with a laboratory rotating disk rain simulator. The experiments were applied to Rhodoxeralt (Terra Rossa) soil with two pre‐prepared moisture contents: hygroscopic and field capacity. For each moisture content, three rainfall temperatures were applied: 2, 20, and 35 °C. Erosion was generally lower in the pre‐wetted soil than in the dry soil (12.5 and 24.4 g m−2 per 40 mm of rain, respectively). Whereas there was no significant effect of raindrop temperature on the dry soil, the soil that was pre‐moistened to field capacity was affected by rainwater temperature: runoff and erosion were high when the temperature difference between rainfall and soil surface was high, and sediment yields were 13·9, 5·2, and 18·3 g m−2 per 40 mm of rain, for rain temperature of 2, 20, and 35 °C, respectively. It is reasonable to conclude that thermophoresis caused by thermal gradients within the soil solution reduces the stability of aggregates and then increases the soil losses. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
To reverse or not to reverse? A systematic review of autograft polarity on functional outcomes following peripheral nerve repair surgery
Authors: Roberts S. E. , Thibaudeau S. , Burrell J. C. , Zager E. L. , Cullen D. K. , Levin L. S.
Published: December 2016

Background

The literature describing the best clinical practice for proximal–distal autograft orientation, otherwise known as nerve graft polarity, is inconsistent. With existing disparities in the peripheral nerve literature, the clinical question remains whether reversing nerve autograft polarity bears an advantage for nerve regeneration.

Methods

A comprehensive review of the literature using Embase and PubMed databases (1940–June 2015) was performed to retrieve all original articles on the effects of nerve autograft polarity on nerve regeneration and functional recovery following primary repair of peripheral nerve defects.

Results

The initial database search yielded 318 titles. Duplicate exclusion, title review and full text review yielded six articles which directly compared nerve autograft polarity. Histological, morphometric, electrophysiological, and behavioral outcomes were reviewed. All retained articles were animal studies, of which none demonstrated significant differences in outcomes between the normal and reversed polarity groups. A reversed graft may ensure that regenerating nerve fibers are not lost at branching points, however this may not translate into improved function.

Conclusion

There is insufficient data to suggest that nerve autograft polarity has an impact on nerve regeneration and functional outcomes.
Traveling wave solutions for fractional partial differential equations arising in mathematical physics by an improved fractional Jacobi elliptic equation method
Authors: Feng Qinghua , Meng Fanwei
Published: December 2016

In this paper, combining with a new generalized ansätz and the fractional Jacobi elliptic equation, an improved fractional Jacobi elliptic equation method is proposed for seeking exact solutions of space‐time fractional partial differential equations. The fractional derivative used here is the modified Riemann‐Liouville derivative. For illustrating the validity of this method, we apply it to solve the space‐time fractional Fokas equation and the the space‐time fractional BBM equation. As a result, some new general exact solutions expressed in various forms including the solitary wave solutions, the periodic wave solutions, and Jacobi elliptic functions solutions for the two equations are found with the aid of mathematical software Maple. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymmetry of lower extremity force and muscle activation during knee extension and functional tasks
Authors: Bond Colin W. , Cook Summer B. , Swartz Erik E. , Laroche Dain P.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Strength and power asymmetries of >10% may negatively impact physical function.

Methods

Twenty‐four healthy participants, 30–60 years of age, were assessed for muscle power asymmetry during isokinetic knee extension and ground reaction force asymmetry during chair‐rise and vertical jump tasks. Neuromuscular activation asymmetry and coactivation of vastus lateralis (VL) and biceps femoris (BF) were assessed in each condition. Symmetric (SG) and asymmetric (AG) groups were identified using a 10% knee extension power asymmetry criterion.

Results

The AG had greater chair‐rise rate of force development asymmetry (P = 0.003, d = 1.29), but a similar chair‐rise and vertical jump peak force asymmetry as the SG. Large group effects were found for VL activation asymmetry during knee extension (P = 0.047, d = 0.87), BF activation asymmetry during vertical jump (P = 0.015, d = 1.12), and strong leg coactivation during vertical jump (P = 0.028, d = 0.96).

Conclusions

Compensation for muscle power asymmetry may occur during functional tasks, potentially through differential activation of strong and weak leg muscles. Muscle Nerve 56: 495–504, 2017
Phase‐field modeling of ductile fracture at finite strains: A robust variational‐based numerical implementation of a gradient‐extended theory by micromorphic regularization
Authors: Miehe Christian , Aldakheel Fadi , Teichtmeister Stephan
Published: December 2016

This work provides a robust variational‐based numerical implementation of a phase field model of ductile fracture in elastic–plastic solids undergoing large strains. This covers a computationally efficient micromorphic regularization of the coupled gradient plasticity‐damage formulation. The phase field approach regularizes sharp crack surfaces within a pure continuum setting by a specific gradient damage modeling with geometric features rooted in fracture mechanics. It has proven immensely successful with regard to the analysis of complex crack topologies without the need for fracture‐specific computational structures such as finite element design of crack discontinuities or intricate crack‐tracking algorithms. The proposed gradient‐extended plasticity‐damage formulation includes two independent length scales that regularize both the plastic response as well as the crack discontinuities. This ensures that the damage zones of ductile fracture are inside of plastic zones or vice versa and guarantees on the computational side a mesh objectivity in post‐critical ranges. The proposed setting is rooted in a canonical variational principle. The coupling of gradient plasticity to gradient damage is realized by a constitutive work density function that includes the stored elastic energy and the dissipated work due to plasticity and fracture. The latter represents a coupled resistance to plasticity and damage, depending on the gradient‐extended internal variables that enter plastic yield functions and fracture threshold functions. With this viewpoint on the generalized internal variables at hand, the thermodynamic formulation is outlined for gradient‐extended dissipative solids with generalized internal variables that are passive in nature. It is specified for a conceptual model of von Mises‐type elasto‐plasticity at finite strains coupled with fracture. The canonical theory proposed is shown to be governed by a rate‐type minimization principle, which fully determines the coupled multi‐field evolution problem. This is exploited on the numerical side by a fully symmetric monolithic finite element implementation. An important aspect of this work is the regularization towards a micromorphic gradient plasticity‐damage setting by taking into account additional internal variable fields linked to the original ones by penalty terms. This enhances the robustness of the finite element implementation, in particular, on the side of gradient plasticity. The performance of the formulation is demonstrated by means of some representative examples. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An interface finite element based on a frictional contact formulation with an associative plasticity model for the tangential interaction
Authors: Michaloudis G. , Konyukhov A. , Gebbeken N.
Published: December 2016

In this contribution, a three‐dimensional frictional contact formulation in the form of an interface solid finite element is discussed. The interface element incorporates normal as well as tangential contact conditions and aims at the modeling of phenomena occurring in engineering problems on the interface between different materials. The focus of this work lies on the description of the tangential interaction of bodies on their contact interface. Instead of the widely used Coulomb friction law, a simple elastoplastic material law is applied in order to model the interaction mechanism on the tangent plane. Appropriate local coordinate systems are introduced on the surface and point of contact, and all contact operations are performed in these coordinate systems by adopting a fully covariant description. In this way, we derive a symmetric element stiffness matrix not only for the case of sticking but also for sliding. Exploiting the advantages of the covariant description, we show that the fact that the derived stiffness matrix discretely consists of constitutive and geometrical parts enables us to introduce rather straightforwardly new appropriate interface laws describing the tangential interaction of the contacting bodies. The presented numerical results show very good correlation of the developed approach with ‘pull‐out’ experiments. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sharing information about cancer with one's family is associated with improved quality of life
Authors: Lai Carlo , Borrelli Beatrice , Ciurluini Paola , Aceto Paola
Published: December 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between cancer patients' ability to share information about their illness with their social network and attachment style dimensions, alexithymia, and quality of life. We hypothesised that ability to share information about one's cancer with family, friends, and medical teams would be positively associated with quality of life and secure attachment and negatively associated with alexithymia.

Methods

Forty‐five cancer patients were recruited from the Psycho‐oncology Unit of the San Camillo‐Forlanini Hospital in Rome. We collected anamnestic data and self‐report data on social sharing ability, quality of life, alexithymia, and attachment.

Results

Sharing with family (B = 4.66; SE = 1.82; β = .52; SE = 0.20; t(41) = 2.6; P = .0143) was the only predictor of global health status, and attachment security was the only predictor of mean social sharing (B = 0.25; SE = 0.06; β = .63; SE = 0.14; t(41) = 4.4; P < .0001).

Conclusions

Encouraging patients to share information about their experience of cancer may help to improve their quality of life. Attachment security seems to promote social sharing. Psychological assessments of cancer patients should cover both ability to share information about one's cancer with family and attachment security.
Inheritance of evolved clethodim resistance in Lolium rigidum populations from Australia
Authors: Saini Rupinder Kaur , Malone Jenna , Gill Gurjeet , Preston Christopher
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

In Australia, the extensive use of clethodim for the control of Lolium rigidum has resulted in the evolution of many clethodim‐resistant L. rigidum populations. Five clethodim‐resistant populations of L. rigidum were analysed for the inheritance of clethodim resistance.

RESULTS

Reciprocal crosses were made between resistant (R) and susceptible (S) populations. Within crosses, dose–responses of reciprocal F1 families of all populations except A61 were similar to each other, indicating that clethodim resistance in these populations is encoded on the nuclear genome. The level of dominance observed in the dose–response experiments ranged from partial to complete within the herbicide rate used. In the A61 population, within each cross, the response of F1 from the maternal and paternal parent was different, indicating that resistance is inherited through the female parent. All backcross populations segregated in a different manner. Only one population, FP, fitted a single‐gene model (1:1). Two populations fitted two‐gene models: a 3:1 inheritance model for F4 and a 1:3 inheritance model for A91. For population E2, no clear pattern of inheritance was determined, suggesting more complex inheritance.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that different patterns of clethodim resistance in L. rigidum exist. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Single layer two‐dimensional O‐g‐C3N4: An efficient photocatalyst for improved molecular oxygen activation ability
Authors: Song Yanhua , She Xiaojie , Yi Jianjian , Mo Zhao , Liu Liang , Xu Hui , Li Huaming
Published: December 2016

Although ultrathin two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have aroused great attention, the preparation methods are still difficult to meet the requirements. Herein, two‐dimensional oxygen‐modified single layer g‐C3N4 (2D O‐g‐C3N4) has been prepared and used as photocatalyst for degradation of environmental pollutants. The as‐prepared 2D O‐g‐C3N4 exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity for degradation of the organic dyes and 4‐chlorophenol (4‐CP). Through the DMPO spin‐trapped ESR spectroscopy analysis, the photocatalytic mechanism was researched in detail.
Carbon adsorption on and diffusion through the Fe(110) surface and in bulk: Developing a new strategy for the use of empirical potentials in complex material set‐ups
Authors: Sahputra Iwan Halim , Chakrabarty Aurab , Restrepo Oscar , Bouhali Othmane , Mousseau Normand , Becquart Charlotte S. , El‐Mellouhi Fedwa
Published: December 2016

Oil and gas infrastructures are submitted to extreme conditions and off‐shore rigs and petrochemical installations require expensive high‐quality materials to limit damaging failures. Yet, due to a lack of microscopic understanding, most of these materials are developed and selected based on empirical evidence leading to over‐qualified infrastructures. Computational efforts are necessary, therefore, to identify the link between atomistic and macroscopic scales and support the development of better targeted materials for this and other energy industry. As a first step towards understanding carburization and metal dusting, we assess the capabilities of an embedded atom method (EAM) empirical force field as well as those of a ReaxFF force field using two different parameter sets to describe carbon diffusion at the surface of Fe, comparing the adsorption and diffusion of carbon into the 110 surface and in bulk of α‐iron with equivalent results produced by density functional theory (DFT). The EAM potential has been previously used successfully for bulk Fe–C systems. Our study indicates that preference for C adsorption site, the surface to subsurface diffusion of C atoms and their migration paths over the 110 surface are in good agreement with DFT. The ReaxFF potential is more suited for simulating the hydrocarbon reaction at the surface while the subsequent diffusion to subsurface and bulk is better captured with the EAM potential. This result opens the door to a new approach for using empirical potentials in the study of complex material set‐ups.
Model averaging for treatment effect estimation in subgroups
Authors: Bornkamp Björn , Ohlssen David , Magnusson Baldur P. , Schmidli Heinz
Published: December 2016

In many clinical trials, biological, pharmacological, or clinical information is used to define candidate subgroups of patients that might have a differential treatment effect. Once the trial results are available, interest will focus on subgroups with an increased treatment effect. Estimating a treatment effect for these groups, together with an adequate uncertainty statement is challenging, owing to the resulting “random high” / selection bias. In this paper, we will investigate Bayesian model averaging to address this problem. The general motivation for the use of model averaging is to realize that subgroup selection can be viewed as model selection, so that methods to deal with model selection uncertainty, such as model averaging, can be used also in this setting. Simulations are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed approach. We illustrate it on an example early‐phase clinical trial.
Impact of stochastic physics on tropical precipitation in the coupled ECMWF model
Authors: Subramanian Aneesh , Weisheimer Antje , Palmer Tim , Vitart Frédéric , Bechtold Peter
Published: December 2016

Uncertainties in parametrized processes in general circulation models can be represented as stochastic perturbations to the model formulation. The European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) has pioneered approaches to represent these model errors in forecasting systems. In particular, the stochastically perturbed physical tendency (SPPT) scheme for the atmosphere is used in their operational ensemble system for medium‐ and long‐range predictions. Recent studies have shown that these stochastic approaches can both increase the reliability of the probabilistic forecasts and reduce long‐term mean biases of the model climate. Towards developing a seamless prediction system in the future, these benefits of stochastic parametrization for both short‐term and long‐term forecasts make it an essential component of the next generation Earth System models. We present results of the impact of different configurations of the SPPT scheme in ECMWF's seasonal forecasting System 4 on the mean and variability in tropical precipitation. Small‐scale perturbations in the SPPT scheme play a significant role in reducing the mean biases in tropical precipitation. The stochastic physics also nonlinearly rectify the convection and precipitation during different phases of El Niño Southern Oscillation events and improve the reliability of the ensemble forecasts for the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO). They impact the MJO dynamics by modulating the convective and suppressed phases of the MJO. Finally, we discuss some of the caveats to this analysis and some future prospects.
Initiation and development of a mesoscale convective system in the Ebro River Valley and related heavy precipitation over northeastern Spain during HyMeX IOP 15a
Authors: Lee K.‐O. , Flamant C. , Ducrocq V. , Duffourg F. , Fourrié N. , Delanoë J. , Bech J.
Published: December 2016

During Intensive Observation Period 15a (20 October 2012) of the first Special Observation Period of the Hydrological cycle in the Mediterranean Experiment, northeastern Spain experienced heavy precipitation (130 mm in 24 h) associated with a retrograde regeneration mesoscale convective system (MCS) developing in the exit region of the Ebro River Valley (ERV). The life cycle of the MCS that brought intense hourly rainfall (34 mm) from the foothills of the Iberian Plateau to the central Pyrenees, as well as the detailed structure of the moist marine flow upstream, were analysed using a combination of ground‐based, airborne and space‐borne observations as well as model analyses. Over the Balearic Sea, the southwesterlies along the northeastern flank of a surface low converged with southeasterlies from North Africa, creating a near‐surface moisture tongue in the region of the Balearic Islands, and a southeast–northwest oriented convergence line within a cloud cluster advecting from northern Africa. Airborne lidar measurements, acquired upstream of the ERV, evidenced water vapour mixing ratios in excess of 15 g kg−1 in the marine atmospheric boundary layer. In the mid‐level (700 hPa), the presence of an elevated moisture plume from tropical Africa contributed about one third to the large moisture content present over the western Mediterranean Sea. In this moist environment, the MCS was initiated over the orography of the northeastern tip of the Iberian plateau, due to the combined influence of the approaching convergence line ahead of the surface low and the convergence resulting from weak northwesterlies channelled in the ERV and the easterlies impinging on the coastal range. After the initiation phase, the MCS further developed over the foothills of the Iberian Plateau and moved into the ERV and along the southern flank of the Pyrenees, thanks to the penetration of the warm and moist maritime southeasterly flow through the narrow gap between the northeastern part of the Iberian Plateau and the Catalan coastal range.
Characterization of nitrated sugar alcohols by atmospheric‐pressure chemical‐ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Ostrinskaya Alla , Kelley Jude A. , Kunz Roderick R.
Published: December 2016

Rationale

The nitrated sugar alcohols mannitol hexanitrate (MHN), sorbitol hexanitrate (SHN) and xylitol pentanitrate (XPN) are in the same class of compounds as the powerful military‐grade explosive pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) and the homemade explosive erythritol tetranitrate (ETN) but, unlike for PETN and ETN, ways to detect MHN, SHN and XPN by mass spectrometry (MS) have not been fully investigated.

Methods

Atmospheric‐pressure chemical‐ionization mass spectrometry (APCI‐MS) was used to detect ions characteristic of nitrated sugar alcohols. APCI time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (APCI‐TOF MS) and collision‐induced dissociation tandem mass spectrometry (CID MS/MS) were used for confirmation of each ion assignment. In addition, the use of the chemical ionization reagent dichloromethane was investigated to improve sensitivity and selectivity for detection of MHN, SHN and XPN.

Results

All the nitrated sugar alcohols studied followed similar fragmentation pathways in the APCI source. MHN, SHN and XPN were detectable as fragment ions formed by the loss of NO2, HNO2, NO3, and CH2NO2 groups, and in the presence of dichloromethane chlorinated adduct ions were observed. It was determined that in MS/MS mode, chlorinated adducts of MHN and SHN had the lowest limits of detection (LODs), while for XPN the lowest LOD was for the [XPN–NO2]– fragment ion. Partially nitrated analogs of each of the three compounds were also present in the starting materials, and ions attributable to these compounds versus those formed from in‐source fragmentation of MHN, SHN, and XPN were distinguished and assigned using liquid chromatography APCI‐MS and ESI‐MS.

Conclusions

The APCI‐MS technique provides a selective and sensitive method for the detection of nitrated sugar alcohols. The methods disclosed here will benefit the area of explosives trace detection for counterterrorism and forensics. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bioinspired Special Wettability Surfaces: From Fundamental Research to Water Harvesting Applications
Authors: Zhang Songnan , Huang Jianying , Chen Zhong , Lai Yuekun
Published: December 2016

Nowadays, the pollution of water has become worse in many parts of the world, which causes a severe shortage of clean water and attracts widespread attention worldwide. Bioinspired from nature, i.e. spider silk, cactus, Namib desert beetle, Nepenthes alata, special wettability surfaces have attracted great interest from fundamental research to water‐harvesting applications. Here, recently published literature about creatures possessing water‐harvesting ability are reviewed, with a focus on the corresponding water‐harvesting mechanisms of creatures in dry or arid regions, consisting of the theory of wetting and transporting. Then a detailed account of the innovative fabrication technologies and bionic water‐harvesting materials with special wetting are summarized, i.e. bio‐inspired artificial spider silk, bio‐inspired artificial cactus‐like structures, and bio‐inspired artificial Namib desert beetle‐like surfaces. Special attentions are paid to the discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of the technologies, as well as factors that affect the amount of water‐harvesting. Finally, conclusions, future outlooks and the current challenges for future development of the water‐harvesting technology are presented and discussed.
A Composite Polymeric Carbon Nitride with In Situ Formed Isotype Heterojunctions for Highly Improved Photocatalysis under Visible Light
Authors: Liang Qinghua , Li Zhi , Bai Yu , Huang Zheng‐Hong , Kang Feiyu , Yang Quan‐Hong
Published: December 2016

Introducing heterojunction is an effective way for improving the intrinsic photocatalytic activity of a graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) semiconductor. These heterostructures are mostly introduced by interfacing GCN with foreign materials that normally have entirely different physicochemical properties and show unfavorable compatibility, thus resulting in a limited improvement of the photocatalytic performance of the resultant materials. Herein, a composite polymeric carbon nitride (CPCN) that contains both melon‐based GCN and triazine‐based crystalline carbon nitride (CCN) is prepared by a simple thermal reaction between lithium chloride and GCN. Thanks to the intimate contact and good compatibility between GCN and CCN, an in situ formed heterojunction acts as a driving force for separating the photogenerated charge carriers in CPCN. As a result, CPCN exhibits a significantly improved photocatalytic performance under visible light irradiation, which is, respectively, 10.6 and 5.3 times as high as those of the GCN and CCN alone. This well designed isotype heterojunction by a coupling of CCN presents an effective avenue for developing efficient GCN photocatalysts.