bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upper gastrointestinal bleeding following transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Stanger Dylan E. , Abdulla Alym H. , Wong Frank T. , Alipour Sina , Bressler Brian L. , Wood David A. , Webb John G.
Published: July 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify the incidence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in the postprocedural period following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Background

As TAVR moves into intermediate‐ and low‐risk patients, it has become increasingly important to understand its extracardiac complications. The patient population undergoing TAVR have clinical and demographic characteristics that place them at significant risk of UGIB. Practical aspects of TAVR, including use of antithrombotic therapy, further increase risk of UGIB.

Methods

A retrospective single‐center evaluation of 841 patients who underwent TAVR between January 2005 and August 2014 was performed in conjunction with analysis of referral patterns to the gastroenterology service for UGIB at the same site.

Results

The overall risk of UGIB following TAVR was found to be 2.0% (n = 17/841). Additionally, the risk of UGIB in patients receiving triple antithrombotic therapy was found to be 10‐fold greater than patients not receiving triple antithrombotic therapy (11.8% vs 1.0%). Endoscopy findings demonstrated five high‐risk esophageal lesions including erosive esophageal ulcers, visible vessels at the GE junction, erosions at distal esophagus, and an actively bleeding esophageal ring that had been intubated through by the transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) probe.

Conclusions

This large cohort study demonstrates that TAVR is associated with a moderate risk of severe UGIB. The results of this study suggest that patients on triple antithrombotic therapy are at highest risk for severe UGIB. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Resilient Yolk–Shell Silicon–Reduced Graphene Oxide/Amorphous Carbon Anode Material from a Synergistic Dual‐Coating Process for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Lin Ming‐Hsien , Hy Sunny , Chen Chun‐Yu , Cheng Ju‐Hsiang , Rick John , Pu Nen‐Wen , Su Wei‐Nien , Lee Yao‐Chang , Hwang Bing‐Joe
Published: July 2016

A dual‐coating process was developed to prepare a unique yolk–shell silicon–reduced graphene oxide/amorphous carbon (YS‐Si@rGO/a‐C) anode material. The nanostructured Si composite anode material consists of Si cores, evenly wrapped with a first coating of graphene oxide constructed through electrostatic self‐assembly, and a shell of a second reinforced coating of graphene oxide/amorphous carbon, integrated by using an economic hydrothermal carbonization process. Thermal reduction and HF etching were then applied to reduce graphene oxide into graphene and to create the required void space to endow the hybrid material with sufficient mechanical strength and to buffer against stresses induced by volume changes of the Si nanoparticles. The obtained YS‐Si@rGO/a‐C composite anode material has structural integrity together with conductive 3D‐network beneficial to its electrochemical performance, attributed to the synergy of electrostatic self‐assembly and hydrothermal carbonization. As a result, the composite anode has a superior initial coulombic efficiency of 76 %, surpassing other published Si/G composite anodes, as well as an initial cycle reversible capacity of 1668 mAh g−1 at 0.4 A g−1 and a capacity retention of 75 % after over 100 cycles, when compared with the yolk–shell structured Si@a‐C anode.
Potential‐Pulse‐Assisted Formation of Thiol Monolayers within Minutes for Fast and Controlled Electrode Surface Modification
Authors: Jambrec Daliborka , Conzuelo Felipe , Estrada‐Vargas Arturo , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: July 2016

We propose a potential‐pulse‐assisted method for the formation of highly compact thiol self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs), ensuring fully covered surfaces within minutes. By pulsing between potentials that are more positive and more negative with respect to the potential of zero charge, kinetics of SAM formation is substantially enhanced. The formation of the SAM is followed by using real‐time impedance measurements by superimposing the applied potential‐pulse profile with a high‐frequency AC signal that allows for calculation of the interfacial capacitance and provides information about the compactness of the formed layers. A systematic study of the influence of the pulse potential intensity, the pulse duration, and the nature of the thiol derivative on the potential‐pulse‐assisted SAM formation is performed. We show that compact thiol monolayers are obtained much faster with the suggested technique, as compared to SAM formation performed at the open‐circuit potential or by applying a constant potential.
Fluorescent Recognition of 1,2‐Diamines by a 1,1′‐Binaphthyl‐Based Trifluoromethyl Ketone
Authors: Xu Yimang , Yu Shanshan , Chen Qi , Chen Xuemin , Li Yinan , Yu Xiaoqi , Pu Lin
Published: July 2016

The fluorescent responses of a 1,1′‐binaphthol (BINOL)‐based trifluoromethyl aryl ketone toward a variety of amines have been studied. The aliphatic 1,2‐diamines, especially ethylenediamine, can greatly enhance the fluorescence of this compound, but under the same conditions, other mono‐ and diamines cause much smaller fluorescent responses. This compound can be used as a fluorescent sensor for the detection of ethylenediamine at concentrations over micromolar levels. UV absorption and NMR spectroscopic methods have been used to study the interactions of the sensor with ethylenediamine. These studies have demonstrated that the trifluoromethyl ketone of the sensor reacts with ethylenediamine much more favorably than with other amines. The hydroxyl groups of the sensor and those of the hemiaminal adducts formed in the presence of the amines are important for the highly selective fluorescent response.
Alcohol‐Induced C−N Bond Cleavage of Cyclometalated N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Ligands with a Methylene‐Linked Pendant Imidazolium Ring
Authors: Zhong Wei , Fei Zhaofu , Scopelliti Rosario , Dyson Paul J.
Published: July 2016

Reaction of the pentamethylcyclopentadienyl rhodium iodide dimer [Cp*RhI2]2 with 1,1′‐diphenyl‐3,3′‐methylenediimidazolium diiodide in non‐alcohol solvents, in the presence of base, led to the formation of bis‐carbene complex [Cp*Rh(bis‐NHC)I]I (bis‐NHC=1,1′‐diphenyl‐4,4′‐methylenediimidazoline‐5,5′‐diylidene). In contrast, when employing alcohols as the solvent in the same reaction, cleavage of a methylene C−N bond is observed, affording ether‐functionalized (cyclometalated) carbene ligands coordinated to the metal center and the concomitant formation of complexes with a coordinated imidazole ligand. Studies employing other 1,1′‐diimidazolium salts indicate that the cyclometalation step is a prerequisite for the activation/scission of the C−N bond and, based on additional experimental data, a SN2 mechanism for the reaction is tentatively proposed.
Porous Azo‐Bridged Porphyrin–Phthalocyanine Network with High Iodine Capture Capability
Authors: Li Hui , Ding Xuesong , Han Bao‐Hang
Published: July 2016

We report a highly efficient iodine adsorbent achieved by rational design of a porous azo‐bridged porphyrin–phthalocyanine network (AzoPPN), which was synthesized by a catalyst‐free coupling reaction between free‐base 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(4‐nitrophenyl)‐porphyrin and nickel tetraaminophthlocyanine. AzoPPN has a permanent porous structure and plenty of porphyrin and phthalocyanine units in the skeleton as effective sorption sites. It displays excellent adsorption of iodine vapor up to 290 wt. % and also shows remarkable capability as adsorbent for iodine in solution. This strategy of combining physisorption with chemisorption in one adsorbent will pave the way for the development of new materials for iodine capture.
Activation of Elemental Sulfur at a Two‐Coordinate Platinum(0) Center
Authors: Roy Sudipta , Schürmann Christian J. , Mondal Totan , Koley Debasis , Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Stalke Dietmar , Roesky Herbert W.
Published: July 2016

Platinum dichalcogenides have been known to exhibit two‐dimensional layered structures. Herein, we describe the syntheses, isolation, and characterization of air‐stable crystalline cyclic alkyl(amino) carbene (cAAC)‐supported monomeric platinum disulfide three‐membered ring complex [(cAAC)2Pt(S2)] (2). The highly reactive platinum(0) [(cAAC)2Pt] complex (1) with two‐coordinate platinum activates elemental sulfur to give2. The brown crystals of bis‐carbene platinum(II)monosulfate [(cAAC)2Pt(SO4)x(S2)1−x] (4) have been isolated when the reaction was performed in air. The dioxygen analogue of2was formed upon exposing the THF solution of1to aerial oxygen (O2). The binding of oxygen at the Pt0center was found to be reversible. Additionally, DFT study has been performed to elucidate the electronic structure and bonding scenario of2,3, and4. Quantum chemical calculations showed donor–acceptor‐type interaction for the Pt−S bonds in2and Pt−O bonds in3and4.
Experimental study of ultrasonic radiation on growth kinetic of asphaltene aggregation and deposition
Authors: Salehzadeh Marziyeh , Akherati Ali , Ameli Forough , Dabir Bahram
Published: July 2016

Ultrasonic treatment as an economical and green technology has been much attended in petroleum industry, especially for inhibition and removal of asphaltene deposition in the near wellbore region. The performance of ultrasonic waves is affected by different parameters such as time, power, frequency, type of radiation, etc. In this communication, the effects of duration of ultrasonic radiation, power, and stability on asphaltene aggregation were evaluated from a kinetic point of view. In fact, the optimal radiation conditions were determined by comparing the growth kinetics and size distribution of asphaltene particles. The optimal exposure time and power of ultrasonic radiation for the oil sample were obtained at 150 s and 40 W, respectively. In addition, the negative effect of time duration on the aggregated asphaltene particle diameter was observed. The effect of ultrasonic radiation on prevention and removal of asphaltene deposits was examined by observation of changes in asphaltene particle diameter. The results demonstrated the beneficial effect of ultrasonic waves on inhibition of asphaltene deposition. In order to investigate the effect of ultrasound on asphaltene deposition in porous media, the oil sample was radiated with ultrasound at the most optimal conditions, which were obtained in the previous experiments. Moreover, the trend of asphaltene particle deposition in porous media (micromodel) at optimal conditions was compared to the same oil sample without ultrasonic radiation. Comparison of pressure drop curves showed that the use of ultrasound in determined optimum conditions reduces the amount of asphaltene deposition.
EXtended ACquisition Time (EXACT) NMR—A Case for ′Burst′ Non‐Uniform Sampling
Authors: Ndukwe Ikenna E. , Shchukina Alexandra , Kazimierczuk Krzysztof , Cobas Carlos , Butts Craig P.
Published: July 2016

A strong case exists for the introduction of burst non‐uniform sampling (NUS) in the direct dimension of NMR spectroscopy experiments. The resulting gaps in the NMR free induction decay can reduce the power demands of long experiments (by switching off broadband decoupling for example) and/or be used to introduce additional pulses (to refocus homonuclear coupling, for example). The final EXtended ACquisition Time (EXACT) spectra are accessed by algorithmic reconstruction of the missing data points and can provide higher resolution in the direct dimension than is achievable with existing non‐NUS methods.
Surprising Hofmeister Effects on the Bending Vibration of Water
Authors: Yan Chuanyu , Xue Zhimin , Zhao Wancheng , Wang Jinfang , Mu Tiancheng
Published: July 2016

The Hofmeister series, which originally described the specific ion effects on the solubility of macromolecules in aqueous solutions, has been a long‐standing unsolved and exceptionally challenging mystery in chemistry. The complexity of specific ion effects has prevented a unified theory from emerging. Accumulating research has suggested that the interactions among ions, water and various solutes play roles. However, among these interactions, the binding between ions and solutes is receiving most of the attention, whereas the effects of ions on the hydrogen‐bond structure in liquid water have been deemed to be negligible. In this study, attenuated‐total‐reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy is used to study the infrared spectra of salt solutions. The results show that the red‐ and blue‐shifts of the water bending band are in excellent agreement with the characteristic Hofmeister series, which suggests that the ions’ effects on water structure might be the key role in the Hofmeister phenomenon.
Relaxed stability conditions for continuous‐time Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems based on a new upper bound inequality
Authors: Zhang Tieyan , Yu Yuan , Zhao Yan
Published: July 2016

The important issue of reducing the conservatism of feasible stability criteria for continuous‐time Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems is studied in this article. In order to obtain more advanced result than previous ones, a new upper bound inequality is proposed and thus the properties of the normalized fuzzy weighting functions' time derivatives can be better used than the previous ones. In particular, the so‐called “redundant terms” considered in previous literature can be converted to “useful terms” which play a positive role in the underlying analysis process. Moreover, some useless additional variables and their derived inequalities are removed for enhancing the efficiency. Finally, an illustrative example is given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 289–295, 2016
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 responses dictate differentiation of neural progenitors to NMDA‐responsive cells in fragile X syndrome
Authors: Achuta Venkat Swaroop , Grym Heli , Putkonen Noora , Louhivuori Verna , Kärkkäinen Virve , Koistinaho Jari , Roybon Laurent , Castrén Maija L.
Published: July 2016

Disrupted metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) signaling is implicated in many neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, found in fragile X syndrome (FXS). Here we report that intracellular calcium responses to the group I mGluR agonist (S)−3,5‐dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG) are augmented, and calcium‐dependent mGluR5‐mediated mechanisms alter the differentiation of neural progenitors in neurospheres derived from human induced pluripotent FXS stem cells and the brains of mouse model of FXS. Treatment with the mGluR5 antagonist 2‐methyl‐6‐(phenylethynyl)‐pyridine (MPEP) prevents an abnormal clustering of DHPG‐responsive cells that are responsive to activation of ionotropic receptors in mouse FXS neurospheres. MPEP also corrects morphological defects of differentiated cells and enhanced migration of neuron‐like cells in mouse FXS neurospheres. Unlike in mouse neurospheres, MPEP increases the differentiation of DHPG‐responsive radial glial cells as well as the subpopulation of cells responsive to both DHPG and activation of ionotropic receptors in human neurospheres. However, MPEP normalizes the FXS‐specific increase in the differentiation of cells responsive only to N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) present in human neurospheres. Exposure to MPEP prevents the accumulation of intermediate basal progenitors in embryonic FXS mouse brain suggesting that rescue effects of GluR5 antagonist are progenitor type‐dependent and species‐specific differences of basal progenitors may modify effects of MPEP on the cortical development. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 419–437, 2017
High‐Speed Underfilm Corrosion Imaging Using a Terahertz Camera
Authors: FUSE NORIKAZU , FUKUCHI TETSUO , MIZUNO MAYA , FUKUNAGA KAORU
Published: July 2016

Nondestructive, two‐dimensional distribution measurement of rusting under opaque anticorrosion coating was carried out, using a terahertz camera, a quantum cascade laser, and a galvanic scanner. The measurement speed of the present method was found to be 11 times faster than the conventional raster scanning method based on time‐domain spectroscopy. A signal‐to‐noise ratio exceeding 102 was confirmed for both systems, which enables the detection of minor rusting.
Surface Modification of PTFE Using Low‐Energy Nitrogen Ion Irradiation: Improvement in Adhesive Strength on Modification of Deep Modifying Layer
Authors: TAKATA RICARDO , IWAO TORU , YUMOTO MOTOSHIGE
Published: July 2016

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) has the best properties as a material of high‐frequency PC board. However, it has low adhesion force for using cabling material. In order to improve adhesion force, we studied on surface modification of PTFE by using nitrogen ion irradiation. As a result, peel strengths of PTFE improved up to 900 N/m to amount of treatment time. On the other hand, surface energy did not increase. From here onward, improved peel strengths on modified surface could be forecasted because of a change that is binding state of modified layer. The compositions of surface on samples after peel test were analyzed so as to prove the hypothesis. As a result, adhesive/PTFE system occurred to destruction in deep portion of modified layer. Moreover, binding of oxygen could be existed with long treatment time. Therefore, it was suggested that the brittle layer of deep modifying layer needs to be modified for the improvement of adhesive strength.
Unifying error structures in commonly used biotracer mixing models
Authors: Stock Brian C. , Semmens Brice X.
Published: July 2016

Mixing models are statistical tools that use biotracers to probabilistically estimate the contribution of multiple sources to a mixture. These biotracers may include contaminants, fatty acids, or stable isotopes, the latter of which are widely used in trophic ecology to estimate the mixed diet of consumers. Bayesian implementations of mixing models using stable isotopes (e.g., MixSIR, SIAR) are regularly used by ecologists for this purpose, but basic questions remain about when each is most appropriate. In this study, we describe the structural differences between common mixing model error formulations in terms of their assumptions about the predation process. We then introduce a new parameterization that unifies these mixing model error structures, as well as implicitly estimates the rate at which consumers sample from source populations (i.e., consumption rate). Using simulations and previously published mixing model datasets, we demonstrate that the new error parameterization outperforms existing models and provides an estimate of consumption. Our results suggest that the error structure introduced here will improve future mixing model estimates of animal diet.
Magnesium and Zinc Complexes Supported by N,N,O Tridentate Ligands: Synthesis and Catalysis in the Ring‐Opening Polymerization of rac‐Lactide and α‐Methyltrimethylene Carbonate
Authors: Huang Miao , Ma Haiyan
Published: July 2016

A series of racemic biphenyl‐ or binaphthyl‐based aminophenols were treated with 1 equiv. of Mg[N(SiMe3)2]2 or Zn[N(SiMe3)2]2 to provide eight heteroleptic magnesium and zinc silylamido complexes (Mg, 1a–5a; Zn, 1b, 3b, 5b). Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies on typical magnesium complex 5a and zinc complexes 1b, 3b, and 5b showed a tridentate chelating mode of the ligand and a distorted tetrahedral geometry around the metal center. All of these complexes proved to be efficient initiators for the ring‐opening polymerization of rac‐lactide in toluene and THF. Microstructure analysis of the resultant poly(rac‐lactide) samples by homonuclear‐decoupled 1H NMR spectroscopy revealed heterotacticities ranging from 0.45 to 0.69. These complexes were also applied as initiators in the polymerization of racemic α‐methyltrimethylene carbonate in toluene and exhibited moderate to high regioselectivities; the most regioregular polymer was obtained with magnesium complex 4a (Xreg = 0.93).
Use of a suite of biomarkers to assess the effects of carbamazepine, bisphenol A, atrazine, and their mixtures on green mussels, Perna viridis
Authors: Juhel Guillaume , Bayen Stephane , Goh Christine , Lee Wei Kit , Kelly Barry C.
Published: July 2016

The present study investigated the toxicity of several emerging contaminants: the pharmaceutical drug carbamazepine (CBZ), the plasticizer bisphenol A (BPA), and the herbicide atrazine (ATZ) in a marine bivalve. Green mussels (Perna viridis) were exposed to different concentrations of CBZ, BPA, and ATZ, either individually or as mixtures over a 7-d period, and a suite of molecular and cellular biomarkers were analyzed: biomarkers of immunotoxicity (total hemocyte count, phagocytosis, extracellular lysozyme), genotoxicity (Comet assay), neurotoxicity (inhibition of acetylcholinesterase [AChE]), endocrine disruption (vitellin-like proteins), and detoxification enzymes (cytochrome P4501A [CYP1A], 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase [EROD], and glutathione-S-transferase [GST]). Results of the single-chemical exposure tests highlighted the relatively low toxicity of CBZ because most biomarker responses observed were recorded at concentrations well above environmental levels. Bisphenol A exposure at environmentally realistic concentrations resulted in clear immunomodulatory, genotoxic, and endocrine-disruptive effects. Similarly, 3 of the 10 biomarkers tested on green mussels (genotoxicity, inhibition of AchE, and EROD) responded after exposure to ATZ at environmentally relevant doses or below, and confirmed the potency of this herbicide to marine bivalves. Exposure tests using mixtures of CBZ, BPA, and ATZ also revealed that these 3 substances were generally acting in an additive manner on the selected biomarkers, at environmental doses, with some exceptions (antagonism and/or synergy) at low and high concentrations. The present study also confirms that most of the biomarkers used are suitable for biomonitoring studies with green mussels. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:429–441. © 2016 SETAC
On parallel pre‐conditioners for pressure Poisson equation in LES of complex geometry flows
Authors: Singh K. M. , Avital E. J. , Williams J. J. R. , Ji C. , Bai X. , Munjiza A.
Published: July 2016

This paper presents an assessment of fast parallel pre‐conditioners for numerical solution of the pressure Poisson equation arising in large eddy simulation of turbulent incompressible flows. Focus is primarily on the pre‐conditioners suitable for domain decomposition based parallel implementation of finite volume solver on non‐uniform structured Cartesian grids. Bi‐conjugate gradient stabilized method has been adopted as the Krylov solver for the linear algebraic system resulting from the discretization of the pressure Poisson equation. We explore the performance of multigrid pre‐conditioner for the non‐uniform grid and compare its performance with additive Schwarz pre‐conditioner, Jacobi and SOR(k) pre‐conditioners. Numerical experiments have been performed to assess the suitability of these pre‐conditioners for a wide range of non‐uniformity (stretching) of the grid in the context of large eddy simulation of a typical flow problem. It is seen that the multigrid preconditioner shows the best performance. Further, the SOR(k) preconditioner emerges as the next best alternative. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Targeted and untargeted mass spectrometric approaches in discrimination between Myrtus communis cultivars from Sardinia region
Authors: Sarais G. , D'Urso G. , Lai C. , Pirisi F. M. , Pizza C. , Montoro P.
Published: July 2016

In the present study, the discrimination of phytochemical content of Myrtus communis berries from different geographical origin and cultivars was explored by Liquid Chromatography–Electrospray Ionization–Fourier Transform–Mass Spectrometry (LC–ESI–FT–MS) metabolic profiling and quantitative analysis. Experiments were carried on myrtle plants grown in an experimental area of Sardinia region, obtained by the germination of seeds taken from berries collected in each part of the region. A preliminary untargeted approach on fruit's extracts was realized by collecting LC–ESI–FT‐(Orbitrap)‐MS data obtained by operating in negative ion mode and performing principal component analysis with the result of differentiation of samples. In a second step, targeted analysis with a reduced number of variables was realized. A data matrix was obtained by the data fusion of positive and negative ionization LC–ESI–MS results, by using as variables the peak areas of each known compounds. By the observation of principal component analysis, results found that anthocyanins, and mainly derivatives of cyanidin, are the principal marker compounds responsive for the discrimination of samples based on the geographical origin of the seeds. Based on this finding, finally, an LC‐diode array detector method was developed, validated and applied for the quantitative analysis of berries' extracts based on 11 commercial standard compounds corresponding to the identified markers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A late Quaternary vertebrate deposit in Kudjal Yolgah Cave, south‐western Australia: refining regional late Pleistocene extinctions
Authors: Jankowski Nathan R. , Gully Grant A. , Jacobs Zenobia , Roberts Richard G. , Prideaux Gavin J.
Published: July 2016

We describe the stratigraphy and chronology of Kudjal Yolgah Cave in south‐western Australia, a late Quaternary deposit pre‐ and post‐dating regional human arrival and preserving fossils of extinct and extant fauna. Single‐grain optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating shows that seven superposed units were deposited over the past 80 ka. Remains of 16 mammal species have been found at the site, all of them represented in Unit 7, for which seven OSL ages indicate accumulation between 80 and 41 ka. Single‐grain OSL equivalent dose distribution patterns show no evidence of reworking of older or younger sediments into Unit 7, but late Holocene charcoal has been washed into the top of it from adjacent Unit 2, deposited 1.2 ka ago. Six species that failed to survive the Pleistocene are recorded in Unit 7, but only the south‐western wombatVombatus hackettiis recorded in younger units. Two species, the large extinct kangaroosProtemnodonsp.cf.P. roechusandProcoptodon browneorum, are represented by articulated specimens near the top of Unit 7, immediately adjacent to an OSL sediment sample dated to 41 ± 2 ka. These are the youngest reliably dated records of these genera from mainland Australia, and among the youngest megafaunal remains from the continent. All species currently known from the middle Pleistocene of the south‐west persisted into the late Pleistocene, which removes a key pillar supporting the argument against a driving role for human impacts in the extinctions.
Observation of optomechanical coupling in a microbottle resonator
Authors: Asano Motoki , Takeuchi Yuki , Chen Weijian , Özdemir Şahin Kaya , Ikuta Rikizo , Imoto Nobuyuki , Yang Lan , Yamamoto Takashi
Published: July 2016

In this work, we report optomechanical coupling, resolved sidebands and phonon lasing in a solid‐core microbottle resonator fabricated on a single mode optical fiber. Mechanical modes with quality factors (Qm) as high as 1.57 × 104 and 1.45 × 104 were observed, respectively, at the mechanical frequencies and . The maximum  Hz is close to the theoretical lower bound of 6 × 1012 Hz needed to overcome thermal decoherence for resolved‐sideband cooling of mechanical motion at room temperature, suggesting microbottle resonators as a possible platform for this endeavor. In addition to optomechanical effects, scatter‐induced mode splitting and ringing phenomena, which are typical for high‐quality optical resonances, were also observed in a microbottle resonator.

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Physico‐Chemical Strategies to Enhance Stability and Drug Retention of Polymeric Micelles for Tumor‐Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Shi Yang , Lammers Twan , Storm Gert , Hennink Wim E.
Published: July 2016

Polymeric micelles (PM) have been extensively used for tumor‐targeted delivery of hydrophobic anti‐cancer drugs. The lipophilic core of PM is naturally suitable for loading hydrophobic drugs and the hydrophilic shell endows them with colloidal stability and stealth properties. Decades of research on PM have resulted in tremendous numbers of PM‐forming amphiphilic polymers, and approximately a dozen micellar nanomedicines have entered the clinic. The first generation of PM can be considered solubilizers of hydrophobic drugs, with short circulation times resulting from poor micelle stability and unstable drug entrapment. To more optimally exploit the potential of PM for targeted drug delivery, several physical (e.g., π–π stacking, stereocomplexation, hydrogen bonding, host–guest complexation, and coordination interaction) and chemical (e.g., free radical polymerization, click chemistry, disulfide and hydrazone bonding) strategies have been developed to improve micelle stability and drug retention. In this review, the most promising physico‐chemical approaches to enhance micelle stability and drug retention are described, and how these strategies have resulted in systems with promising therapeutic efficacy in animal models, paving the way for clinical translation, is summarized.

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Long‐term double‐blinded unilateral pedunculopontine area stimulation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Mestre Tiago A. , Sidiropoulos Christos , Hamani Clement , Poon Yu‐Yan , Lozano Andres M. , Lang Anthony E. , Moro Elena
Published: July 2016

Background

Gait‐related symptoms are often refractory to current available treatment options with a significant reduction in quality of life in Parkinson's disease.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine the long‐term efficacy and safety of unilateral pedunculopontine area stimulation for refractory gait and balance impairment in Parkinson's disease.

Methods

This study used periodic randomized double‐blinded assessments until 4 years postoperatively. The primary outcomes were gait‐related items of the UPDRS part II and the MDS‐UPDRS part III.

Results

At baseline, the median age and disease duration was 63 years (interquartile range: 62, 65) and 15 years (interquartile range: 11, 20). At 2 years, patient‐reported freezing (UPDRS part II, off‐time) was significantly better when compared with baseline (P =.028), with 62.5% of responders. At 4 years, there was no significant change in the used outcomes, but 66.7 % (n = 4 of 6) were responders for off‐time patient‐reported freezing and falling.

Conclusions

Pedunculopontine area stimulation has an initial but not sustained benefit for gait‐related symptoms. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Onionin A, a sulfur‐containing compound isolated from onions, impairs tumor development and lung metastasis by inhibiting the protumoral and immunosuppressive functions of myeloid cells
Authors: Fujiwara Yukio , Horlad Hasita , Shiraishi Daisuke , Tsuboki Junko , Kudo Rino , Ikeda Tsuyoshi , Nohara Toshihiro , Takeya Motohiro , Komohara Yoshihiro
Published: July 2016

Scope

Recent studies have demonstrated that myeloid lineage cells, such as macrophages and myeloid suppressor cells (MDSCs), are major components exhibiting protumoral functions in the setting of tumor progression. Tumor‐associated macrophages polarized to the protumoral M2 phenotype promote tumor proliferation and are considered to be a therapeutic target in patients with malignant tumors.

Methods and results

We identified a new candidate compound, called onionin A (ONA) isolated from onions, that inhibits macrophage polarization into the M2 phenotype, as well as the immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs and tumor proliferation, by suppressing signal transducer and activator of transcription‐3 (Stat3) activation. Furthermore, ONA administration was found to significantly suppress subcutaneous tumor development and lung metastasis in tumor‐bearing mice. ONA administration also inhibited Stat3 activation and increased the number of infiltrating lymphocytes in tumor tissues, and an ex vivo analysis showed that the immunosuppressive effect of MDSCs in tumor‐bearing mice is impaired by ONA. Moreover, ONA regulated tumor proliferation by inhibiting cell–cell interactions between macrophages and tumor cells, and ONA administration enhanced the antitumor effects of cisplatin in the tumor‐bearing mice.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that ONA may be a potential new tool for antitumor therapy and also for tumor prevention.
Gray level Co‐occurrence Matrices (GLCM) to assess microstructural and textural changes in pre‐implantation embryos
Authors: Tan Tiffany C.Y. , Ritter Lesley J. , Whitty Annie , Fernandez Renae C. , Moran Lisa J. , Robertson Sarah A. , Thompson Jeremy G. , Brown Hannah M.
Published: July 2016

The preimplantation embryo is extraordinarily sensitive to environmental signals and events such that perturbations can alter embryo metabolism and program an altered developmental trajectory, ultimately affecting the phenotype of the adult individual; indeed, the physical environment associated with in vitro embryo culture can attenuate development. Defining the underlying metabolic changes and mechanisms, however, has been limited by the imaging technology used to evaluate metabolites and structural features in the embryo. Here, we assessed the impact of in vitro fertilization and culture on mouse embryos using three metabolic markers: peroxyfluor 1 (a reporter of hydrogen peroxide), monochlorobimane (a reporter of glutathione), and Mitotracker Deep Red (a marker of mitochondria). We also evaluated the distribution pattern of histone 2AX gamma (γH2AX) in the nuclei of 2‐ and 8‐cell embryos and blastocysts to investigate the degree of DNA damage caused by in vitro embryo culture. In vitro‐fertilized embryos, in vivo‐developed embryos, and in vivo‐fertilized embryos recovered and cultured in vitro were compared at the 2‐, 8‐cell, and blastocyst stages. In addition to assessments based on fluorescence intensity, textural analysis using Gray Level Co‐occurrence Matrix (GLCM), a statistical approach that assesses texture within an image, was used to evaluate peroxyfluor 1, monochlorobimane, and Mitotracker Deep Red staining in an effort to develop a robust metric of embryo quality. Our data provide strong evidence of modified metabolic parameters identifiable as altered fluorescence texture in embryos developed in vitro. Thus, texture‐analysis approach may provide a means of gaining additional insight into embryo programming beyond conventional measurements of staining intensity for metabolic markers. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 701–713, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spatial verification using wavelet transforms: a review
Authors: Weniger Michael , Kapp Florian , Friederichs Petra
Published: July 2016

Due to the emergence of new high‐resolution numerical weather prediction (NWP) models and the availability of new or more reliable remote sensing data, the importance of efficient spatial verification techniques is growing. Wavelet transforms offer an effective framework to decompose spatial data into separate (and possibly orthogonal) scales and directions. Most wavelet‐based spatial verification techniques have been developed or refined in the last decade and concentrate on assessing forecast performance (i.e. forecast skill or forecast error) on distinct physical scales. Particularly during the last 5 years, a significant growth in meteorological applications could be observed. However, a comparison with other scientific fields, such as feature detection, image fusion, texture analysis or facial and biometric recognition, shows that there is still a considerable, currently unused potential to derive useful diagnostic information. In order to tap the full potential of wavelet analysis, we review the state‐of‐the‐art in one‐ and two‐dimensional wavelet analysis and its application, with emphasis on spatial verification. We further use a technique developed for texture analysis in the context of high‐resolution quantitative precipitation forecasts, which is able to assess the structural characteristics of the precipitation fields and allows efficient clustering of ensemble data.
Accurate molecular structures of small‐ and medium‐sized molecules
Authors: Puzzarini Cristina
Published: July 2016

Molecular structure is one of the most relevant concepts in chemistry. It plays a central role in determining molecular and spectroscopic properties: a mandatory prerequisite for a thorough understanding of the chemical and physical properties of molecules is in fact represented by the knowledge of their geometrical structures. While in some fields a qualitative description of the molecular structure might be sufficient, in many others, like for example spectroscopy, a quantitative, and accurate determination is mandatory. Nowadays, the most advanced computational methodologies allow reliable structural predictions able to fulfil the proper accuracy requirements. This contribution provides an overview on this topic, focusing on the computational strategies that permit accurate equilibrium structure determinations for systems ranging from small molecules to medium‐sized building‐blocks of biomolecules.
Genetic‐based framework for prevention of masquerade and DDoS attacks in vehicular ad‐hocnetworks
Authors: Malhi Avleen Kaur , Batra Shalini
Published: July 2016

Inter‐vehicular communication needs to be secure and anonymous as the effective and robust operations including security and privacy are critical for the deployment of vehicular ad‐hoc networks (VANETs). The security of VANETs has become an imperative matter of consideration, which is prone to disparate security threats. The masquerade attacks and distributed denial of service attacks are among them that hinders the availability of the network. In this paper, a secure genetic‐based framework is proposed for the detection and prevention of masquerade and distributed denial of service attacks in VANETs. The proposed framework is very efficient in the detection and prevention of network anomalies that can affect the network performance. The proposed scheme is evaluated over genetic model defined using Gaussian modelling. The analysis and evaluation of the adduced framework is also presented in the paper. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Reciprocal Effects Model of the Temporal Ordering of Coping and Defenses
Authors: Nicolas Michel , Drapeau Martin , Martinent Guillaume
Published: July 2016

This study aimed to examine how coping and defenses are related over time, using a two‐wave cross‐lagged panel design. Coping and defenses were assessed before and after a sport competition in a sample of 296 competitive athletes. Partial least squares path modeling results showed that (a) pre‐competitive mature defenses predicted increases in the use of task‐oriented coping during competition; (b) pre‐competitive immature defenses predicted an increase in the use of disengagement‐oriented coping during competition; and (c) pre‐competitive task‐oriented coping predicted an increase in the use of immature defenses during competition. Overall, our findings suggest that defenses predict the use of coping and conversely, that coping predicts the use of defenses in psychological adjustment to stressful situations. These findings have important theoretical and practical implications. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Hiyama Cross‐Coupling Reaction: New Discoveries
Authors: Foubelo Francisco , Nájera Carmen , Yus Miguel
Published: July 2016

In this account recent developments in the Hiyama cross‐coupling reaction from 2010 up today are presented. The most important methodology involves formation of biaryl systems by using aryl bromides or iodides and aryl trialkoxy silanes: other variants are far less studied. The most useful procedures are collected paying special attention to the synthetic application of this methodology in synthetic organic chemistry.
Climate justice and the international regime: before, during, and after Paris
Authors: Okereke Chukwumerije , Coventry Philip
Published: July 2016

With a focus on key themes and debates, this article aims to illustrate and assess how the interaction between justice and politics has shaped the international regime and defined the nature of the international agreement that was signed in COP21 Paris. The work demonstrates that despite the rise of neo‐conservatism and self‐interested power politics, questions of global distributive justice remain a central aspect of the international politics of climate change. However, while it is relatively easy to demonstrate that international climate politics is not beyond the reach of moral contestations, the assessment of exactly how much impact justice has on climate policies and the broader normative structures of the climate governance regime remains a very difficult task. As the world digests the Paris Agreement, it is vital that the current state of justice issues within the international climate change regime is comprehensively understood by scholars of climate justice and by academics and practitioners, not least because how these intractable issues of justice are dealt with (or not) will be a crucial factor in determining the effectiveness of the emerging climate regime. WIREs Clim Change 2016, 7:834–851. doi: 10.1002/wcc.419

This article is categorized under:

Climate, Nature, and Ethics > Climate Change and Global Justice

Policy and Governance > International Policy Framework
10‐Year Oncologic Outcomes After Laparoscopic or Open Total Mesorectal Excision for Rectal Cancer
Authors: Allaix Marco E. , Giraudo Giuseppe , Ferrarese Alessia , Arezzo Alberto , Rebecchi Fabrizio , Morino Mario
Published: July 2016

Background

Only few studies have compared laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (LTME) and open total mesorectal excision (OTME) for rectal cancer with follow‐up longer than 5 years. The aim of this study was to compare 10‐year oncologic outcomes after LTME and OTME for nonmetastatic rectal cancer.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospective database of rectal cancer patients undergoing LTME or OTME. Statistical analyses were performed on an ‘‘intention‐to‐treat’’ basis and by actual treatment. Overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) were compared by using the Kaplan–Meier method. A multivariable analysis was performed to identify predictors of poor survival.

Results

Between April 1994 and August 2005, a total of 153 LTME patients and 154 OTME patients were included. Similarly, 10‐year OS and DFS after LTME and OTME were observed: 76.8 versus 70.6 % (P = 0.138) and 69.1 versus 67.6 % (P = 0.508), respectively. Conversion to OTME did not adversely affect OS and DFS. Stage‐by‐stage comparison showed no significant differences between LTME and OTME. No significant differences were observed in local recurrence rates after LTME and OTME (6.5 vs. 7.8 %, P = 0.837). Median time until local recurrence was 24.5 (range, 12–56) months after LTME and 22 (6–64) months after OTME (P = 0.777). Poor tumor differentiation, lymphovascular invasion, and a lymph node ratio of 0.25 or more were the independent predictors of poorer OS and DFS.

Conclusion

This retrospective study with long follow‐up did not show significant differences between the two groups in OS and DFS.
Enhanced energy storage properties of Bi0.5Li0.5TiO3 modified Sr0.1Bi0.45Na0.45TiO3 based ceramics
Authors: Feng Qin , Liu Xiao , Yuan Changlai , Liu Xinyu , Zhou Changrong , Chen Guohua
Published: July 2016

Lead-free (1−x)Sr0.1Bi0.45Na0.45TiO3−xBi0.5Li0.5TiO3 (x = 0−0.4) ceramics were successfully prepared by a solid-state reaction technique. The effects of amount of Bi0.5Li0.5TiO3 on structure and electrical properties were examined. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that all the investigated specimens have a perovskite structure. An obvious change in microstructure with the increase of Bi0.5Li0.5TiO3 concentration was observed. This study demonstrated that relaxor could be stabilized in Sr0.1Bi0.45Na0.45TiO3 based ceramics by lowering the tolerance factor and electronegativity difference. Besides, a dielectric anomaly related to thermal evolution of crystallographic symmetry was emerged at the depolarization temperature. Upon incorporation of 26 mol% Bi0.5Li0.5TiO3, the specimens were able to withstand an electric field intensity of 106.9 kV/cm with an energy density of 0.88 J/cm3 and an energy efficiency of 65%.
Colonic Inertia: approach and treatment
Authors: Soares Ana Sofia Garcês Ferreira , Barbosa Laura Elisabete Ribeiro
Published: July 2016

Objective Revision of the state of the art of the knowledge regarding pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of Colonic Inertia, which predominantly affects young women and has a significant socio-economic impact.

Methods A search was made in “colonic inertia”, “colon inertia” and “slow transit constipation” in PubMed database for articles of the last 5 years, in Portuguese or English with available abstract and full text. 59 articles and 2013 guidelines of the American Gastroenterological Association on constipation were included.

Results The pathophysiology is not completely elucidated and the reduction of the interstitial cells of Cajal is the most consistent histological finding. Diagnosis requires the exclusion of secondary causes of constipation and obstructed defecation syndrome, to which contribute several complementary diagnostic tests. Given the frequency of failure of the medical treatment, surgery is often the only possible option. Sacral nerve stimulation seems to be a promising therapeutical alternative.

Conclusion A deeper investigation of the pathophysiological mechanisms is fundamental to acquire a more global and integrated vision. Rigorous patient selection for each treatment and the discovery of new therapeutical targets may avoid the use of surgical therapies.
Recto-sigmoid lipoma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Bagherzade Gholamreza , Etemad Omid
Published: July 2016

Lipomas are a growth of fat cells in a fibrous capsule. They are most common in noncancerous tissues. Lipoma of rectum is uncommon and the most common sit of its origin is the perinanal region. Rarely they could cause rectal bleeding. In this study, we have reported a 53-yrs old man who had been referred to the hospital with symptoms of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding and the problem in bowel movement. Rectal prolapsed with solitary rectal were observed during the clinical observation. Colonoscopy, CT-Scan and MRI were performed for the patient and the results showed a mass suggestive to lipoma which was located in recto/sigmoid region. He underwent the surgery. Intra operative findings showed several soft masses in rectum and a large mass with dimension of 10 cm × 10 cm in sigmoid. Low anterior resection was performed for him and pathology diagnosis was lipoma.