bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly sensitive strain sensor based on helical structure combined with Mach-Zehnder interferometer in multicore fiber
Authors: Zhang Hailiang , Wu Zhifang , Shum Perry Ping , Dinh Xuan Quyen , Low Chun Wah , Xu Zhilin , Wang Ruoxu , Shao Xuguang , Fu Songnian , Tong Weijun , Tang Ming
Published: April 2017

Optical fiber sensors for strain measurement have been playing important roles in structural health monitoring for buildings, tunnels, pipelines, aircrafts, and so on. A highly sensitive strain sensor based on helical structures (HSs) assisted Mach-Zehnder interference in an all-solid heterogeneous multicore fiber (MCF) is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. Due to the HSs, a maximum strain sensitivity as high as −61.8 pm/με was experimentally achieved. This is the highest sensitivity among interferometer-based strain sensors reported so far, to the best of our knowledge. Moreover, the proposed sensor has the ability to discriminate axial strain and temperature, and offers several advantages such as repeatability of fabrication, robust structure and compact size, which further benefits its practical sensing applications.
Circularly polarized luminescence on dinuclear Tb(iii) and Eu(iii) complexes with (S-) and (R-) 2-phenylpropionate
Authors: Casanovas Berta , Zinna Francesco , Di Bari Lorenzo , El Fallah Mohamed Salah , Font-Bardía Mercè , Vicente Ramon
Published: April 2017

Four dinuclear chiral compounds [Ln2(S/R-L)6(phen)2]2·2.5·S/R-HL in which Ln = Tb,Eu andS/R-HL = (S)-(+)- or (R)-(−)-phenylpropionic acid are reported. Luminescence study, including CPL spectra, is also reported.
Development and validation of a novel lateral flow immunoassay device for detection of aflatoxins in soy-based foods
Authors: Santos Vanessa O. , Pelegrini Patrícia B. , Mulinari Fernanda , Lacerda Ariane F. , Moura Rodrigo S. , Cardoso Ludimila P. V. , Bührer-Sékula Samira , Miller Robert N. G. , Grossi-de-Sa Maria Fatima
Published: April 2017

Aflatoxins (AFs) are natural toxins produced as secondary fungal metabolites.
Self-assembled DNA nanocentipedes as multivalent vehicles for enhanced delivery of CpG oligonucleotides
Authors: Li Wenshan , Luo Lei , Huang Jin , Wang Qing , Liu Jianbo , Xiao Xiao , Fang Hongmei , Yang Xiaohai , Wang Kemin
Published: April 2017

Based on a self-assembled multivalent DNA nanocentipede, a high-performance strategy for the enhanced delivery of immunostimulatory agents was achieved.
Three-component nanorotors generated from fusion of complexes and post-fusion metal–metal exchange
Authors: Goswami Abir , Paul Indrajit , Schmittel Michael
Published: April 2017

The fusion of two homoleptic complexes quantitatively created a novel three-component nanorotor.
Solution processing of chalcogenide materials using thiol–amine “alkahest” solvent systems
Authors: McCarthy Carrie L. , Brutchey Richard L.
Published: April 2017

We highlight recent studies utilizing thiol/amine mixtures to dissolve bulk inorganic materials for facile solution processing of functional thin films.
One-pot synthesis and properties of well-defined butadiynylene-BODIPY oligomers
Authors: Zhang Wenxing , Sheng Wanle , Yu Changjiang , Wei Yun , Wang Hua , Hao Erhong , Jiao Lijuan
Published: April 2017

A homogeneous series of oligo-butadiynylene-BODIPYs containing up to four BODIPY moieties have been synthesized in one pot, and from which a soluble, red emitting butadiyne-linked dimer, which can ratiometrically detect viscosity, was developed.
Quenching cooperative transitions by destroying Yb3+-clusters
Authors: Guo Junjie , Aidilibike Tuerxun , Di Weihua , Li Yangyang , Liu Xiaohui , Qin Weiping
Published: April 2017

In our previous study, we have reported the cooperative luminescence of Yb3+-trimers and cooperatively sensitized Gd3+ luminescence by Yb3+-tetramers in a doped CaF2 host.
The short-term reduction of uranium by nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI): role of oxide shell, reduction mechanism and the formation of U(v)-carbonate phases
Authors: Tsarev Sergey , Collins Richard N. , Ilton Eugene S. , Fahy Adam , Waite T. David
Published: April 2017

Uranium(v) can be stabilized in a carbonate solid phase upon reaction with nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI).
Quantitative image cytometry for analyzing intracellular trafficking of G protein-coupled receptors on a chemical-trapping single cell array
Authors: Tan Modong , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Yamahira Shinya , Nakamura Motonao , Nagamune Teruyuki
Published: April 2017

A facile image cytometry method to quantitatively analyze the trafficking of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in immunocytes was developed by using sortase A-mediated pulse-labeling on a light-guided single cell array.
Fluorescence studies on the interaction between chlorpromazine and model cell membranes
Authors: Jiang Yao-Wen , Gao Ge , Chen Zhan , Wu Fu-Gen
Published: April 2017

The fluorescence quenching of membrane fluorophores and the fluorescence enhancement of chlorpromazine were simultaneously observed during chlorpromazine–lipid membrane interaction.
The dearomative annulation between N-2-pyridylamidine and CO2 toward pyrido[1,2-a]-1,3,5-triazin-4-ones
Authors: Xia Minfang , Hu Weiming , Sun Song , Yu Jin-Tao , Cheng Jiang
Published: April 2017

A base-promoted dearomative annulation between N-2-pyridylamidine and an atmospheric pressure of CO2 was developed, affording a series of pyrido[1,2-a]-1,3,5-triazin-4-ones in moderate to excellent yields.
Mechanistic investigation of the ring opening metathesis polymerisation of alkoxy and alkyl substituted paracyclophanedienes
Authors: Kumar Dharam R. , Lidster Benjamin J. , Adams Ralph W. , Turner Michael L.
Published: April 2017

This paper discusses the living nature of the ring opening metathesis polymerisation (ROMP) of alkoxy and alkyl substituted [2.2] paracyclophane-1,9-dienes (M1 and M2), initiated with Grubbs’ second and third generation catalysts (G2 and G3).
Acetone–water biphasic mixtures as solvents for ultrafast SET-LRP of hydrophobic acrylates
Authors: Smail Rauan B. , Jezorek Ryan L. , Lejnieks Jānis , Enayati Mojtaba , Grama Silvia , Monteiro Michael J. , Percec Virgil
Published: April 2017

Transformation of SET-LRP catalyzed with Cu(0) wire from single phase (acetone/water = 9/1, v/v) into biphase (acetone/water = 8/2, v/v).
Amino-functionalized conjugated polymer electron transport layers enhance the UV-photostability of planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells
Authors: Li Dan , Sun Chen , Li Hao , Shi Hui , Shai Xuxia , Sun Qiang , Han Junbo , Shen Yan , Yip Hin-Lap , Huang Fei , Wang Mingkui
Published: April 2017

Long-term photostability and high performance were achieved by perovskite solar cells with an amino-functionalized conjugated polymer as a new electron transport layer.
Mass spectrometric directed system for the continuous-flow synthesis and purification of diphenhydramine
Authors: Loren Bradley P. , Wleklinski Michael , Koswara Andy , Yammine Kathryn , Hu Yanyang , Nagy Zoltan K. , Thompson David H. , Cooks R. Graham
Published: April 2017

An integrated system utilizing mass spectrometry for reaction screening, continuous-flow optimization, and continuous crystallization of diphenhydramine has been developed.
Kinetic resolution of racemic 2-substituted 1,2-dihydroquinolines via asymmetric Cu-catalyzed borylation
Authors: Kong Duanyang , Han Suna , Wang Rui , Li Meina , Zi Guofu , Hou Guohua
Published: April 2017

A highly efficient kinetic resolution of racemic 2-substituted 1,2-dihydroquinolines via asymmetric Cu-catalyzed borylation has been realized for the first time to afford chiral 3-boryl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines and recover 2-substituted 1,2-dihydroquinolines with excellent enantioselectivities and selectivity factors of up to 569.
Influence of defect interactions on the free energy of reduction in pure and doped ceria
Authors: Grieshammer Steffen , Martin Manfred
Published: April 2017

Determination of the free energy of defect interactions and its influence on the reduction of doped ceria.
Elasticity-related periodical Li storage behavior delivered by porous graphene
Authors: Ning Guoqing , Cao Yanming , Qi Chuanlei , Ma Xinlong , Zhu Xiao
Published: April 2017

Periodic variations of capacities and coulombic efficiencies are observed in the lithium insertion/extraction cycles of fibre-like graphene 3D networks, and the mechanism is explained.
Importance of side-chain anchoring atoms on electron donor/fullerene interfaces for high-performance organic solar cells
Authors: Han Guangchao , Guo Yuan , Duan Ruihong , Shen Xingxing , Yi Yuanping
Published: April 2017

For the first time, side-chain anchoring atoms are found to play an important role in tuning the donor/fullerene interfacial arrangements and charge-transfer processes for organic solar cells.
Novel p-type thermoelectric materials Cu3MCh4 (M = V, Nb, Ta; Ch = Se, Te): high band-degeneracy
Authors: Hong A. J. , Yuan C. L. , Gu G. , Liu J.-M.
Published: April 2017

The good thermoelectric performance of some half-Heusler (HH) alloys has been stimulating substantial efforts in searching for more materials with similar crystal structures but better properties.
Design and synthesis of integrally structured Ni3N nanosheets/carbon microfibers/Ni3N nanosheets for efficient full water splitting catalysis
Authors: Liu Tingting , Li Mian , Jiao Chuanlai , Hassan Mehboob , Bo Xiangjie , Zhou Ming , Wang Hsing-Lin
Published: April 2017

A (−) Ni3N/CMFs/Ni3N‖Ni3N/CMFs/Ni3N (+) electrolysis cell requires a cell voltage of only 1.65 V to achieve a current density of 20 mA cm−2.
Asymmetric Organocatalytic Michael Addition–Cyclization Cascade of Cyclopentane-1,2-dione with Substituted α,β-Unsaturated Aldehydes
Authors: Lopp Margus , Preegel Gert , Silm Estelle , Kaabel Sandra , Järving Ivar , Rissanen Kari
Published: April 2017

An asymmetric organocatalytic Michael addition–cyclization cascade reaction has been developed using cyclopentane-1,2-dione as a Michael donor and α,β-unsaturated aldehydes as Michael acceptors. Bicyclic hemiacetals were obtained in excellent yields and enantioselectivities. On the basis of the results, a one-pot reaction has been developed to obtain chiral 3-substituted cyclopentane-1,2-diones and substituted dihydropyrans in good yields and excellent enantioselectivity.
Inherited and Acquired Muscle Weakness: A Moving Target for Diagnostic Muscle Biopsy
Authors: Stenzel Werner , Schoser Benedikt
Published: April 2017

Inherited and acquired muscular weakness is caused by multiple conditions. While the inherited ones are mostly caused by mutations in genes coding for myopathic or neurogenic diseases, the acquired ones occur due to inflammatory, endocrine, or toxic etiologies. Precise diagnosis of a specific disease may be challenging and may require a multidisciplinary approach. What is the current place for a diagnostic biopsy of skeletal muscle? Diagnostic muscle biopsy lost in this context its first-tier place in the primary diagnostic workup for some diseases, but it is still mandatory for others. We here summarize conditions in which we believe a diagnostic sample is most relevant and mention those in which a biopsy may be secondary or can even be left out. We would like to stress that muscle biopsy nowadays has a new important place in description and definition of new diseases, for example, discovered by modern genetic approaches.
Novel STAC3 Mutations in the First Non-Amerindian Patient with Native American Myopathy
Authors: Schänzer Anne , Pepler Alexander , Heller Corina , Neubauer Bernd , Hahn Andreas , Grzybowski Michelle
Published: April 2017

Native American myopathy (NAM) is an autosomal recessive congenital myopathy, up till now exclusively described in Lumbee Indians who harbor one single homozygous mutation (c.1046G>C, pW284S) in the STAC3 gene, encoding a protein important for proper excitation–contraction coupling in muscle. Here, we report the first non-Amerindian patient of Turkish ancestry, being compound heterozygous for the mutations c.862A>T (p.K288*) and c.432+4A>T (aberrant splicing with skipping of exon 4). Symptoms in NAM include congenital muscle weakness and contractures, progressive scoliosis, early ventilatory failure, a peculiar facial gestalt with mild ptosis and downturned corners of the mouth, short stature, and marked susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia. This case shows that NAM should also be considered in non-Indian patients with congenital myopathy, and suggests that STAC3 mutations should be taken into account as a potential cause of malignant hyperthermia.
Role of endoscopy in primary sclerosing cholangitis: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) and European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) Clinical Guideline
Authors: Aabakken Lars , Karlsen Tom , Albert Jörg , Arvanitakis Marianna , Chazouilleres Olivier , Dumonceau Jean-Marc , Färkkilä Martti , Fickert Peter , Hirschfield Gideon , Laghi Andrea , Marzioni Marco , Fernandez Michael , Pereira Stephen , Pohl Jürgen , Poley Jan-Werner , Ponsioen Cyriel , Schramm Christoph , Swahn Fredrik , Tringali Andrea , Hassan Cesare
Published: April 2017

MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS

1 ESGE/EASL recommend that, as the primary diagnostic modality for PSC, magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) should be preferred over endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

Moderate quality evidence, strong recommendation.

2 ESGE/EASL suggest that ERCP can be considered if MRC plus liver biopsy is equivocal or contraindicated in patients with persisting clinical suspicion of PSC. The risks of ERCP have to be weighed against the potential benefit with regard to surveillance and treatment recommendations.

Low quality evidence, weak recommendation.

6 ESGE/EASL suggest that, in patients with an established diagnosis of PSC, MRC should be considered before therapeutic ERCP.

Weak recommendation, low quality evidence.

7 ESGE/EASL suggest performing endoscopic treatment with concomitant ductal sampling (brush cytology, endobiliary biopsies) of suspected significant strictures identified at MRC in PSC patients who present with symptoms likely to improve following endoscopic treatment.

Strong recommendation, low quality evidence.

9 ESGE/EASL recommend weighing the anticipated benefits of biliary papillotomy/sphincterotomy against its risks on a case-by-case basis.

Strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence.

Biliary papillotomy/sphincterotomy should be considered especially after difficult cannulation.

Strong recommendation, low quality evidence.

16 ESGE/EASL suggest routine administration of prophylactic antibiotics before ERCP in patients with PSC.

Strong recommendation, low quality evidence.

17 EASL/ESGE recommend that cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) should be suspected in any patient with worsening cholestasis, weight loss, raised serum CA19-9, and/or new or progressive dominant stricture, particularly with an associated enhancing mass lesion.

Strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence.

19 ESGE/EASL recommend ductal sampling (brush cytology, endobiliary biopsies) as part of the initial investigation for the diagnosis and staging of suspected CCA in patients with PSC.

Strong recommendation, high quality evidence.
Predicting miscibility of binary liquids from small cluster QCE calculations
Authors: Ingenmey Johannes , von Domaros Michael , Kirchner Barbara
Published: April 2017

The quantum cluster equilibrium method is applied to model binary systems of molecular solvents. We minimize the computational effort as well as the experimental input and present the results obtained for the completely miscible acetonitrile/acetone, benzene/acetone, and water/acetone systems, as well as for the hardly miscible water/benzene system. Only clusters of sizes up to n = 3 are applied and these are optimized employing the low-cost functional PBEh-3c. The thermodynamic functions of the pure liquids are in reasonable agreement with experiments. For both non-water containing binary systems, the Gibbs energy of mixing can be reproduced with an accuracy of ≈0.25 kJ/mol. Water containing systems are not sufficiently described by small clusters. The empirical mean-field parameter amf and exclusion volume scaling parameter bxv which depend on the experimental input are approximated by linear interpolation between their neat liquids’ reference values. This makes the approach independent from the experimental data of the binary system. Despite the roughness of the approximation as well as the small size of the cluster sets, the approach is able to correctly predict the mixing behavior of all acetone systems. The benzene/water system is correctly predicted to be non-miscible at most mole fractions. A small range at high benzene concentrations (x> 0.8) is falsely predicted to be miscible.
Sputtering of pure boron using a magnetron without a radio-frequency supply
Authors: Oks Efim , Anders André , Nikolaev Alexey , Yushkov Yury
Published: April 2017

Boron at room temperature is insulating and therefore conventionally sputtered using radio-frequency power supplies including their power-matching networks. In this contribution, we show that through a suitable ignition assistance, via temporary application of a high voltage (∼600 V) to the substrate holder or auxiliary electrode, the magnetron discharge can be ignited using a conventional mid-frequency power supply without matching network. Once the discharge is ignited, the assisting voltage can be reduced to less than 50 V, and after the boron target surface is at elevated temperature, thereby exhibiting sufficient conductivity, the assisting voltage can be turned off. The deposition of boron and boron nitride films has been demonstrated with a deposition rate of approximately 400 nm/h for a power of 250 W.
Chimera-like states in structured heterogeneous networks
Authors: Li Bo , Saad David
Published: April 2017

Chimera-like states are manifested through the coexistence of synchronous and asynchronous dynamics and have been observed in various systems. To analyze the role of network topology in giving rise to chimera-like states, we study a heterogeneous network model comprising two groups of nodes, of high and low degrees of connectivity. The architecture facilitates the analysis of the system, which separates into a densely connected coherent group of nodes, perturbed by their sparsely connected drifting neighbors. It describes a synchronous behavior of the densely connected group and scaling properties of the induced perturbations.
Direct measurement of the inertial confinement time in a magnetically driven implosion
Authors: Knapp P. F. , Martin M. R. , Dolan D. H. , Cochrane K. , Dalton D. , Davis J.-P. , Jennings C. A. , Loisel G. P. , Romero D. H. , Smith I. C. , Yu E. P. , Weis M. R. , Mattsson T. R. , McBride R. D. , Peterson K. , Schwarz J. , Sinars D. B.
Published: April 2017

We report on direct, radiographic measurement of the stagnation phase of a magnetically driven liner implosion. The liner is filled with liquid deuterium and imploded to a minimum radius of 440 μm (radial convergence ratio of 7.7) over 300 ns, achieving a density of ≈10 g/cm3. The measured confinement time is ≈14 ns, compared to 16 ns from 1D simulations. A comparison of measured density profiles with 1D and 2D simulations shows a deviation in the reflected shock trajectory and the liner areal density. Additionally, the magneto Rayleigh-Taylor instability causes enhanced compression with shorter confinement in the bubble region compared to the spikes. These effects combine to reduce the pressure-confinement time product, Pτ, by 25% compared to the simulations.
A 170 GHz time-dependent multi-mode coaxial gyrotron with inner corrugation
Authors: Hou Shenyong , Hou Chongcong , Yu Sheng , Li Hongfu
Published: April 2017

In this paper, a time-dependent multi-mode coaxial gyrotron with inner corrugation is introduced. The time-dependent amplitude and phase equation of the mode TEmn and the multi-mode electron motion equation are derived from the wave equation and the Lorentz equation, respectively. Using these equations, the time evolution of the time-dependent multi-mode coaxial cavity gyrotron with inner corrugation is studied by numerical calculations. Researches show that a 170 GHz coaxial gyrotron with inner corrugation can start up and stably operate in the mode TE32,17 and its competition modes are depressed under the given operation parameters. It is found that the output power and the output efficiency of the coaxial gyrotron with inner corrugation are 2.205 MW and 40%, respectively. These studies display the mode competition process of the time-dependent multi-mode coaxial gyrotron with inner corrugation. It is helpful to further research on the beam-wave interaction of the gyrotron.
Piezotronic effect at Schottky barrier of a metal-ZnO single crystal interface
Authors: Keil Peter , Frömling Till , Klein Andreas , Rödel Jürgen , Novak Nikola
Published: April 2017

ZnO is considered as one of the most promising semiconductor materials for future applications based on the piezotronic effect. Intense studies on ZnO nanowires had been carried out to understand the modulation of the Schottky barrier height at the metal ZnO interface via piezoelectricity. However, an experimental investigation on bulk ZnO single crystals and a fundamental comparison of the modification of the barrier height determined experimentally and theoretically are still missing. Therefore, an adjustment of the electrostatic potential barrier height at metal-ZnO single crystal interfaces due to stress induced piezoelectric charges was conducted, using both O- and Zn-terminated surfaces. In-situ stress dependent impedance and current-voltage measurements were utilized to extract the electrical properties of the potential barrier and to determine the reduction of the barrier height. The decrease of the interface resistance and increase of the capacitance reveal the presence of stress induced piezoelectric charges. The experimentally evaluated reduction of the barrier height reveals a moderate change of about 9 meV at 70 MPa and supports prior work on metal-ZnO nanowires. This change was found to be in good agreement with theoretical calculations based on the imperfect screening model if a thickness of the interface layer is assumed to be ∼2 Å.
Dissociation ofPer1andBmal1circadian rhythms in the suprachiasmatic nucleus in parallel with behavioral outputs
Authors: Ono Daisuke , Honma Sato , Nakajima Yoshihiro , Kuroda Shigeru , Enoki Ryosuke , Honma Ken-ichi
Published: April 2017

Significance

The circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) regulates seasonality in physiology and behavior, which is best characterized by the change in the activity time of behavioral rhythms. In nocturnal rodents, the activity time was shortened in long summer days and lengthened in short winter days because of the change in the phase relationship of activity onset and offset, for which different circadian oscillators are predicted. Taking advantage of in vivo monitoring of clock gene expression in freely moving mice, we demonstrated that the circadian rhythms ofPer1andBmal1in the SCN are associated differentially with the phase shifts of activity onset and offset, respectively, suggesting the existence of two oscillations with different molecular mechanisms in timing of circadian behavior.
Case for the genetic code as a triplet of triplets
Authors: Chevance Fabienne F. V. , Hughes Kelly T.
Published: April 2017

Significance

The genetic code for life is a triplet base code. It is known that adjacent codons can influence translation of a given codon and that codon pair biases occur throughout nature. We show that mRNA translation at a given codon can be affected by the two previous codons. Data presented here support a model in which the evolutionary selection pressure on a single codon is over five successive codons, including synonymous codons. This work provides a foundation for the interpretation of how single DNA base changes might affect translation over multiple codons and should be considered in the characterization of the effects of DNA base changes on human disease.
Achiral symmetry breaking and positive Gaussian modulus lead to scalloped colloidal membranes
Authors: Gibaud Thomas , Kaplan C. Nadir , Sharma Prerna , Zakhary Mark J. , Ward Andrew , Oldenbourg Rudolf , Meyer Robert B. , Kamien Randall D. , Powers Thomas R. , Dogic Zvonimir
Published: April 2017

Significance

A number of essential processes in biology and materials science, such as vesicle fusion and fission as well as pore formation, change the membrane topology and require formation of saddle surfaces. The energetic cost associated with such deformations is described by the Gaussian curvature modulus. We show that flat 2D colloidal membranes composed of achiral rods are unstable and spontaneously form scalloped edges. Quantitative analysis of such instability estimates the Gaussian curvature modulus of colloidal membranes. The measured sign and magnitude of the modulus can be explained by a simple excluded volume argument that was originally developed for polymeric surfactants.
Knockout of the LRRC26 subunit reveals a primary role of LRRC26-containing BK channels in secretory epithelial cells
Authors: Yang Chengtao , Gonzalez-Perez Vivian , Mukaibo Taro , Melvin James E. , Xia Xiao-Ming , Lingle Christopher J.
Published: April 2017

Significance

Ca
2
+
- and voltage-regulated K
+
channels (termed BK channels) are expressed in a diverse variety of cells, playing distinct physiological roles often defined by cell-specific regulatory subunits. Here, genetic deletion of one particular regulatory subunit, LRRC26, reveals that LRRC26-containing BK channels are found, perhaps exclusively, in secretory epithelial cells, including salivary glands, airways, and gastrointestinal tract. Such cells mediate fluid, peptide, and mucus secretion, influencing digestion, airway function, gut resistance to infection, and lactation. The absence of LRRC26 in secretory epithelial cells renders BK channels inactive during normal physiological conditions and alters ion efflux from salivary gland. LRRC26-containing BK channels are critical for normal ionic flux in secretory epithelial cells, likely impacting on a variety of epithelial cell pathologies.
Hot ductility of high Al TWIP steels containing Nb and Nb-V
Authors: Qaban A. , Mintz B. , Kang S. E. , Naher S.
Published: April 2017

The hot ductility of B-Ti-Nb-high Al (1.5%Al) containing TWIP steels having Ti/N ratios mainly in excess of 3.4/1 was obtained. After soaking at 1250°C, the tensile specimens were cooled at 12 or 60°C min−1 to the test temperature and then strained to failure at 3 × 10−3 s−1. Ductility was always good (reduction of area >40%), independent of Ti/N ratio or cooling rate. The good ductility is due to B segregation strengthening the grain boundaries and the low S level (0.005%S) limiting the volume fraction of MnS inclusions and restricting AlN precipitation to the matrix. Increasing the cooling rate, higher N levels and Nb resulted in a small improvement in ductility. An addition of V to the Nb-containing steels caused a slight deterioration in the hot ductility.
Pseudomonas doesn’t mind a dunking
Authors: Sedwick Caitlin
Published: April 2017

A new study explains Pseudomonas aeruginosa’s strong resistance to osmotic down-shock.
Capturing non-local interactions by long short-term memory bidirectional recurrent neural networks for improving prediction of protein secondary structure, backbone angles, contact numbers and solvent accessibility
Authors: Heffernan Rhys , Yang Yuedong , Paliwal Kuldip , Zhou Yaoqi
Published: April 2017

Motivation

The accuracy of predicting protein local and global structural properties such as secondary structure and solvent accessible surface area has been stagnant for many years because of the challenge of accounting for non-local interactions between amino acid residues that are close in three-dimensional structural space but far from each other in their sequence positions. All existing machine-learning techniques relied on a sliding window of 10–20 amino acid residues to capture some ‘short to intermediate’ non-local interactions. Here, we employed Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Bidirectional Recurrent Neural Networks (BRNNs) which are capable of capturing long range interactions without using a window.

Results

We showed that the application of LSTM-BRNN to the prediction of protein structural properties makes the most significant improvement for residues with the most long-range contacts (|i-j| >19) over a previous window-based, deep-learning method SPIDER2. Capturing long-range interactions allows the accuracy of three-state secondary structure prediction to reach 84% and the correlation coefficient between predicted and actual solvent accessible surface areas to reach 0.80, plus a reduction of 5%, 10%, 5% and 10% in the mean absolute error for backbone ϕ, ψ, θ and τ angles, respectively, from SPIDER2. More significantly, 27% of 182724 40-residue models directly constructed from predicted Cα atom-based θ and τ have similar structures to their corresponding native structures (6Å RMSD or less), which is 3% better than models built by ϕ and ψ angles. We expect the method to be useful for assisting protein structure and function prediction.

Availability and implementation

The method is available as a SPIDER3 server and standalone package at http://sparks-lab.org.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Effects of Aging on Parasite Biomass, Inflammation, Endothelial Activation, Microvascular Dysfunction and Disease Severity in Plasmodium knowlesi and Plasmodium falciparum Malaria
Authors: Barber Bridget E. , Grigg Matthew J. , William Timothy , Piera Kim A. , Boyle Michelle J. , Yeo Tsin W. , Anstey Nicholas M.
Published: April 2017

Background.

In populations pauci-immune to malaria, risk of severe malaria increases with age. This is particularly apparent in Plasmodium knowlesi malaria. However, pathophysiological mechanisms underlying knowlesi malaria, and of the age-related increase in risk of severe malaria in general, are poorly understood.

Methods.

In Malaysian patients aged ≥12 years with severe (n = 47) and nonsevere (n = 99) knowlesi malaria, severe (n = 21) and nonsevere (n = 109) falciparum malaria, and healthy controls (n = 50), we measured parasite biomass, systemic inflammation (interleukin 6 [IL-6]), endothelial activation (angiopoietin-2), and microvascular function, and evaluated the effects of age.

Results.

Plasmodium knowlesi parasitemia correlated with age (Spearman’s correlation coefficient [r  s] = 0.36; P < .0001). In knowlesi malaria, IL-6, angiopoietin-2, and microvascular dysfunction were increased in severe compared to nonsevere disease, and all correlated with age, independent of parasitemia. In falciparum malaria, angiopoietin-2 increased with age, independent of parasite biomass (histidine-rich protein 2 [HRP2]). Independent risk factors for severe malaria included parasitemia and angiopoietin-2 in knowlesi malaria, and HRP2, angiopoietin-2, and microvascular dysfunction in falciparum malaria.

Conclusions.

Parasite biomass, endothelial activation, and microvascular dysfunction are associated with severe disease in knowlesi malaria and likely contribute to pathogenesis. The association of each of these processes with aging may account for the greater severity of malaria observed in older adults in low-endemic regions.
Characteristics and Outcome of Patients After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Treated With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome*
Authors: Wohlfarth Philipp , Beutel Gernot , Lebiedz Pia , Stemmler Hans-Joachim , Staudinger Thomas , Schmidt Matthieu , Kochanek Matthias , Liebregts Tobias , Taccone Fabio Silvio , Azoulay Elie , Demoule Alexandre , Kluge Stefan , Svalebjørg Morten , Lueck Catherina , Tischer Johanna , Combes Alain , Böll Boris , Rabitsch Werner , Schellongowski Peter
Published: April 2017

Objectives:

The acute respiratory distress syndrome is a frequent condition following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may serve as rescue therapy in refractory acute respiratory distress syndrome but has not been assessed in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients.

Design:

Multicenter, retrospective, observational study.

Setting:

ICUs in 12 European tertiary care centers (Austria, Germany, France, and Belgium).

Patients:

All allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients treated with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for acute respiratory distress syndrome between 2010 and 2015.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Thirty-seven patients, nine of whom underwent noninvasive ventilation at the time of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation initiation, were analyzed. ICU admission occurred at a median of 146 (interquartile range, 27–321) days after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The main reason for acute respiratory distress syndrome was pneumonia in 81% of patients. All but one patient undergoing noninvasive ventilation at extracorporeal membrane oxygenation initiation had to be intubated thereafter. Overall, seven patients (19%) survived to hospital discharge and were alive and in remission of their hematologic disease after a follow-up of 18 (range, 5–30) months. Only one of 24 patients (4%) initiated on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation within 240 days after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation survived compared to six of 13 (46%) of those treated thereafter (p < 0.01). Fourteen patients (38%) experienced bleeding events, of which six (16%) were associated with fatal outcomes.

Conclusions:

Discouraging survival rates in patients treated early after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation do not support the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for acute respiratory distress syndrome in this group. On the contrary, long-term allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients otherwise eligible for full-code ICU management may be potential candidates for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy in case of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome failing conventional measures.
Transpulmonary Pressure Describes Lung Morphology During Decremental Positive End-Expiratory Pressure Trials in Obesity*
Authors: Fumagalli Jacopo , Berra Lorenzo , Zhang Changsheng , Pirrone Massimiliano , Santiago Roberta R. De Santis , Gomes Susimeire , Magni Federico , dos Santos Glaucia A. B. , Bennett Desmond , Torsani Vinicius , Fisher Daniel , Morais Caio , Amato Marcelo B. P. , Kacmarek Robert M.
Published: April 2017

Objectives:

Atelectasis develops in critically ill obese patients when undergoing mechanical ventilation due to increased pleural pressure. The current study aimed to determine the relationship between transpulmonary pressure, lung mechanics, and lung morphology and to quantify the benefits of a decremental positive end-expiratory pressure trial preceded by a recruitment maneuver.

Design:

Prospective, crossover, nonrandomized interventional study.

Setting:

Medical and Surgical Intensive Care Units at Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA) and University Animal Research Laboratory (São Paulo, Brazil).

Patients/Subjects:

Critically ill obese patients with acute respiratory failure and anesthetized swine.

Interventions:

Clinical data from 16 mechanically ventilated critically ill obese patients were analyzed. An animal model of obesity with reversible atelectasis was developed by placing fluid filled bags on the abdomen to describe changes of lung mechanics, lung morphology, and pulmonary hemodynamics in 10 swine.

Measurements and Main Results:

In obese patients (body mass index, 48 ± 11 kg/m2), 21.7 ± 3.7 cm H2O of positive end-expiratory pressure resulted in the lowest elastance of the respiratory system (18.6 ± 6.1 cm H2O/L) after a recruitment maneuver and decremental positive end-expiratory pressure and corresponded to a positive (2.1 ± 2.2 cm H2O) end-expiratory transpulmonary pressure. Ventilation at lowest elastance positive end-expiratory pressure preceded by a recruitment maneuver restored end-expiratory lung volume (30.4 ± 9.1 mL/kg ideal body weight) and oxygenation (273.4 ± 72.1 mm Hg). In the swine model, lung collapse and intratidal recruitment/derecruitment occurred when the positive end-expiratory transpulmonary pressure decreased below 2–4 cm H2O. After the development of atelectasis, a decremental positive end-expiratory pressure trial preceded by lung recruitment identified the positive end-expiratory pressure level (17.4 ± 2.1 cm H2O) needed to restore poorly and nonaerated lung tissue, reestablishing lung elastance and oxygenation while avoiding increased pulmonary vascular resistance.

Conclusions:

In obesity, low-to-negative values of transpulmonary pressure predict lung collapse and intratidal recruitment/derecruitment. A decremental positive end-expiratory pressure trial preceded by a recruitment maneuver reverses atelectasis, improves lung mechanics, distribution of ventilation and oxygenation, and does not increase pulmonary vascular resistance.
Perceived Mentoring Practices in Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Fellowship Programs
Authors: Diekroger Elizabeth A. , Reyes Charina , Myers Katherine M. , Li Hong , Kralovic Shanna K. , Roizen Nancy
Published: April 2017

Objective:

Junior physicians describe mentoring relationships as integral to their career development and success. Current evidence suggests that mentoring is under-utilized despite interest from trainees. The purpose of this study is to describe the mentoring practices in developmental-behavioral pediatric (DBP) fellowship programs and identify mentoring needs of DBP fellows and recent graduates.

Methods:

DBP fellows and recent graduates less than 5 years out of training from US-based DBP fellowship programs were contacted to complete a survey on their mentoring experiences in fellowship and early career.

Results:

A total of 90 respondents completed the entire survey including 47 current DBP fellows and 43 recent graduates. Only 52% of respondents reported having a formal faculty mentor during their fellowship. Only 45% of recent graduates reported that they currently have a mentor, of those without a current mentor 83% said they would like to have a mentor. Adequate mentoring during fellowship was lowest for career development and research (34% and 27%). Satisfaction with mentoring was associated with having a formal mentor (p < .001) and receiving mentoring in multiple areas (p < .001). Qualitative responses suggested that effective mentoring addresses the mentee's career goals, provides insight into being a developmental-behavioral pediatrician, assists in navigating academics, and involves a personal relationship.

Conclusion:

Results suggest opportunities for improved mentoring in DBP fellowship programs, particularly in the areas of career development and research and that there is a significant need for mentorship among recent graduates. Findings from this study can inform program improvement in mentoring for DBP fellows and recent graduates.
Comorbid Mental Disorders in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Weyrauch Deland , Schwartz Megan , Hart Brandon , Klug Marilyn G. , Burd Larry
Published: April 2017

Objective:

A systematic review of published literature to estimate prevalence of comorbid mental disorders in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) and compare with general population prevalence estimates.

Methods:

A PubMed search was used to locate articles reporting on FASD and mental disorders published through June 2015. Next, lists of published studies from all issues of the National Organisation for Foetal Alcohol Syndrome—UK publication Fetal Alcohol Forum—were searched. Weighted average prevalence was estimated for the comorbid mental disorders with sufficient data for analysis. We then compared prevalence of mental disorders in the FASD population with rates in the mental health literature.

Results:

We identified 26 articles reporting 5984 cases of FASD. Of the 15 comorbid mental disorders, 11 had sufficient data for inclusion in the analysis. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder occurred in 50% of persons with FASD (10 times the expected rate). Intellectual disability occurred at 23 times the expected rate. In 5 of the 12 disorders, rates in the FASD population significantly exceeded expected rates by 10% to 45%.

Conclusion:

Increased rates of mental disorders in people with FASD are commonly reported. Mental health providers should routinely consider FASD in the diagnosis and management of mental illness and developmental disorders. The quality of the research and precision of comorbidity estimates would be improved by additional studies including people with FASD and non-FASD comparison subjects. Until these studies are available, this review provides the best available estimates of comorbid mental disorders in people with FASD.
Descemetorhexis Without Grafting for Fuchs Endothelial Dystrophy—Supplementation With Topical Ripasudil
Authors: Moloney Gregory , Petsoglou Constantinos , Ball Matthew , Kerdraon Yves , Höllhumer Roland , Spiteri Natasha , Beheregaray Simone , Hampson Judith , D'Souza Mario , Devasahayam Raj N.
Published: April 2017

Purpose:

To report the safety and efficacy of descemetorhexis without grafting as a primary intervention in Fuchs dystrophy, and the use of a ROCK inhibitor, ripasudil as a salvage agent in failing cases.

Methods:

Twelve eyes of 11 patients underwent central descemetorhexis not exceeding 4 mm. All had Fuchs dystrophy–producing visual symptoms, requesting intervention. Exclusion criteria were a peripheral endothelial cell count <1000 and central edema. Corneal clearance and visual parameters were recorded monthly until corneal clearance was observed, then at intervals of 6 months. Cases failing to clear by month 2 were considered for salvage treatment. This consisted of treatment with 1 of 2 formulations of Rho-associated kinase inhibitor eye drops. Endothelial keratoplasty was planned as the final salvage procedure in unsuccessful cases.

Results:

Nine of 12 eyes cleared spontaneously between 2 and 6 months. One eye failed to clear by month 5 and topical Y-27632 was administered, without success. Endothelial keratoplasty was performed. In 2 eyes, healing stalled at 3 and 2 months. In both cases, topical ripasudil administered 6 times a day for 2 weeks resulted in complete corneal clearance. In cases achieving corneal clearance, best spectacle corrected visual acuity improved from a mean of 0.26 to 0.125 (logMAR) with subjective improvement in quality of vision.

Conclusions:

In Fuchs dystrophy with visual degradation due to central guttae, descemetorhexis without grafting is a viable procedure for visual rehabilitation. Careful patient selection is required, but the advent of topical ripasudil as a salvage agent suggests that a broader application of the surgery may be possible. Further study into the use of this agent is now needed.
Neuronal Fibers and Neurotransmitter Receptor Expression in the Human Endolymphatic Sac
Authors: Møller Martin Nue , Kirkeby Svend , Vikeså Jonas , Nielsen Finn Cilius , Cayé-Thomasen Per
Published: April 2017

Introduction:

Recent studies suggest that the human endolymphatic sac (ES) may have multiple functions, including an ion-transport capacity comparable to the kidney, an immunological capacity and a possible natriuretic capacity. Further, there have been speculations of a yet undefined role in intracranial pressure homeostasis. The anatomical location towards the sigmoid sinus would suggest a possible endo- and/or paracrine signaling. However, neuronal connections may also apply, but it remains very scarcely explored in the human ES.

Study Design:

DNA micro-arrays and immunohistochemistry were used for analyses of fresh human ES tissue samples.

Methods:

A total of 30 tissue samples from the human ES were obtained during translabyrinthine surgery for vestibular schwannoma. Microarray technology was used to investigate tissue sample gene expression, using adjacent dura mater as control. The expression of genes specific for neuronal signaling was determined and results for selected key molecules verified by immunohistochemistry. Transmission electron microscopy was used for ultrastructural analysis.

Results:

For the transmission electron microscopy analysis, a direct innervation of the ES was observed with unmyelinated fibers imbedded in the ES epithelial lining. The microarrays confirmed, that several molecules involved in neuronal signaling were found expressed significantly in the ES DNA profile, such as the Cholecystokinin peptide and related receptors, Dopamine receptors 2 and 5, vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), plasma monoamine transporter (PMAT), and Serotonin 1D. All peptides were verified by immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions:

Based on global gene expression profiling and immuno-histochemical labeling, we conclude that the human ES expresses neuropeptide receptors and monoamine transporters. Combined with the ultrastructural demonstration of unmyelinated axons imbedded within the epithelial lining, the findings suggest that neuro-signaling mechanisms are involved in functions exerted by the ES.
Systematic Review on the Trial Period for Bone Conduction Devices in Single-Sided Deafness: Rates and Reasons for Rejection
Authors: Wendrich Anne W. , Kroese Tiuri E. , Peters Jeroen P. M. , Cattani Guido , Grolman Wilko
Published: April 2017

Objective:

To systematically review the literature to evaluate the trial period of bone conduction devices (BCDs) for adult patients with single-sided deafness (SSD).

Data Sources:

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from their inception up to August 15, 2016 for SSD, BCD, and their synonyms.

Study Selection:

In total, 523 articles were retrieved, of which 12 satisfied the eligibility quality criteria. Our outcomes of interest were: 1) the BCD implantation rejection percentage, 2) reasons to reject BCD implantation, and 3) possible prognostic factors predicting the trial outcome.

Data Extraction and Synthesis:

At critical appraisal, six studies (n = 471 patients) scored a moderate to high directness of evidence and a medium or low risk of bias and were selected for data extraction. Due to heterogeneity between studies, pooling of data for meta-analysis was not feasible. Therefore, results of studies were summarized per outcome: 1) after the BCD trial, 32.0 to 69.6% of SSD patients rejected BCD implantation, 2) the three main reasons for rejection were experiencing limited benefit from the device, patients fearing or being unfit for surgery and cosmetic aspects, 3) no clear prognostic factors predicting the trial outcome could be identified.

Conclusion:

Roughly half of patients rejected BCD implantation after a trial period. From the current literature it is unclear which patients could benefit most from BCD implantation. High level of evidence studies should be conducted to investigate possible prognostic factors that predict the BCD trial outcome.
Ipsilesional Nystagmus Induced by Vibration in Subjects With Ménière's Disease or Vestibular Schwannoma
Authors: Vargas Gamarra María Fernanda , Krstulovic Claudio , Pérez Guillén Vanesa , Pérez-Garrigues Herminio
Published: April 2017

Objective:

To analyze the frequency in which vibration-induced nystagmus (VIN) with ipsilesional direction appears in subjects with Ménière's disease (MD) or vestibular schwannoma (VS).

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Tertiary referral center.

Patients:

Fifty-two subjects with MD and 21 subjects with vestibular schwannoma.

Intervention:

Videonystagmographic recordings of VIN at 30, 60, and 100 Hz.

Main Outcome Measures:

Direction and slow phase velocity of VIN at 30, 60, and 100 Hz.

Results:

Ipsilesional Nystagmus was observed in 8 of 52 subjects with MD (15.4%) and in 11 of 21 subjects affected of unilateral VS (52.4%). Ipsilesional nystagmus was significantly higher in patients with VS (p = 0.003). The frequency of appearance of ipsilesional nystagmus in the subjects with VS who has not been treated was significantly higher than those who underwent radiosurgery (84.6% vs 0%, p = 0.046).

Conclusion:

Ipsilesional vibration-induced Nystagmus can be present in subjects with vestibular deficits caused by MD and VS.