bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of dietary nitrate on age‐related diastolic dysfunction
Authors: Rammos Christos , Hendgen‐Cotta Ulrike B. , Totzeck Matthias , Pohl Julia , Lüdike Peter , Flögel Ulrich , Deenen René , Köhrer Karl , French Brent A. , Gödecke Axel , Kelm Malte , Rassaf Tienush
Published: April 2016

Aims

Diastolic dysfunction is highly prevalent, and ageing is the main contributor due to impairments in active cardiac relaxation, ventriculo‐vascular stiffening, and endothelial dysfunction. Nitric oxide (NO) affects cardiovascular functions, and NO bioavailability is critically reduced with ageing. Whether replenishment of NO deficiency with dietary inorganic nitrate would offer a novel approach to reverse age‐related cardiovascular alterations was not known.

Methods and results

A dietary nitrate supplementation was applied to young (6 month) and old (20 month) wild‐type mice for 8 weeks and compared with controls. High‐resolution ultrasound, pressure–volume catheter techniques, and isolated heart measurements were applied to assess cardiac diastolic and vascular functions. Cardiac manganese‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging was performed to study the effects of dietary nitrate on myocyte calcium handling. In aged mice with preserved systolic function, dietary nitrate supplementation improved LV diastolic function, arterial compliance, and coronary flow reserve. Mechanistically, improved cardiovascular functions were associated with an accelerated cardiomyocyte calcium handling and augmented NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate/protein kinase G signalling, while enhanced nitrate reduction was related to age‐related differences in the oral microbiome.

Conclusion

Dietary inorganic nitrate reverses age‐related LV diastolic dysfunction and improves vascular functions. Our results highlight the potential of a dietary approach in the therapy of age‐related cardiovascular alterations.
Recent Progress in Asymmetric Synthesis and Application of Difunctionalized Silicon‐Stereogenic Silanes
Authors: Bauer Jonathan O. , Strohmann Carsten
Published: April 2016

During the past decades, silicon‐stereogenic compounds have continuously been attracting attention in synthetic chemistry. The preparation of representatives containing reactive silicon–element bonds is thus an interesting task to allow further transformations. Provided that the chiral information can efficiently be transferred in these conversions, reactive silicon‐chiral silanes may lead to interesting new applications. In this microreview we give an overview of difunctionalized silanes containing asymmetrically substituted silicon centers. Several intriguing approaches have been discovered over the years and are presented in terms of their synthetic potential and stereochemical behavior. With a special focus on our recent achievements in the field of silicon‐stereogenic N,O‐silanes, new mechanistic aspects of stereocontrolled nucleophilic substitutions are also discussed, along with innovative coordination capabilities that arise from the unique silicon‐centered asymmetry.
1,2,3‐Triazole–Diketopyrrolopyrrole Derivatives with Tunable Solubility and Intermolecular Interactions
Authors: Punzi Angela , Maiorano Eliana , Nicoletta Francesca , Blasi Davide , Ardizzone Antonio , Ventosa Nora , Ratera Imma , Veciana Jaume , Farinola Gianluca Maria
Published: April 2016

1,2,3‐Triazole rings bearing hydrophobic aliphatic or hydrophilic oligoether chains were easily introduced at the two ends of the conjugated skeleton of bisthiophene–diketopyrrolopyrrole (TDPP) derivatives by simple click cycloaddition reactions. The combination of side chains with different structures and polarities on the triazole rings with the side chains on the N‐atoms of the lactam groups of the TDPP moiety enabled the solubility and the solid‐state spectroscopic properties of the resulting conjugated molecules to be tuned. Formation of nanostructured aggregates and dependence of their spectroscopic behavior on the substitution pattern were investigated.
Synthesis of Benzene‐Glycol Nucleic Acids and Their Biophysical and Biological Properties
Authors: Niwa Nazuki , Ueda Keisuke , Ueno Yoshihito
Published: April 2016

In this study, we report the synthesis of benzene‐glycol nucleic acids and studies of their biophysical and biological properties. Using (S)‐mandelic acid as the starting material, we prepared phosphoramidite units for the synthesis of benzene‐glycol nucleic acids. The benzene‐glycol moieties effectively replace the sugar groups ordinarily found in DNA and RNA monomers. Oligonucleotides (ONs) containing these nucleoside analogues formed thermally and thermodynamically stable duplexes with complementary DNA and RNA strands and proved to be more resistant (i.e. less susceptible) to 3′‐exonuclease than their “natural” counterparts. Furthermore, we demonstrated that a duplex composed of a modified ON and its complementary strand of RNA very effectively elicits RNase H activity.
Stereoselective Anti‐Markovnikov Geminal Diamination and Dioxy­gena­tion of Vinylarenes Mediated by the Bromonium Ion
Authors: Balaji Pandur Venkatesan , Chandrasekaran Srinivasan
Published: April 2016

A straightforward method is reported for the stereoselective anti‐Markovnikov geminal diamination and stoichiometric geminal dioxygenation of vinylarenes mediated by a bromonium ion. The role of the substituent on the nucleophile and the nucleophilicity of the heteroatom in the competing geminal and vicinal addition pathways has been described. The stereoselectivity of the geminal dioxygenation is dependent on the ring size of the product and the position of the substituent that induces the stereoselectivity. The migration of the phenyl group through a semi‐pinacol rearrangement during the geminal addition process was confirmed by the results of deuterium labelling studies.
Convergent Three‐Component Tetrazole Synthesis
Authors: Chandgude Ajay L. , Dömling Alexander
Published: April 2016

A microwave‐accelerated, simple, and efficient method for the construction of the 1,5‐tetrazole scaffold was developed. It comprises a multicomponent reaction of an amine, a carboxylic acid derivative, and an azide source. On the basis of the availability of the archetypical starting materials, this method provided very versatile synthetic access to 1,5‐disubstituted tetrazoles. The usefulness of this method was demonstrated in the synthesis of biologically important fused tetrazole scaffolds and the marketed drug cilostazol.
Therapeutic deferoxamine and deferiprone monitoring in β‐thalassemia patients’ plasma by field‐amplified sample injection and sweeping in capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Lin Hung‐Ju , Kou Hwang‐Shang , Chiou Shyh‐Shin , Wu Shou‐Mei
Published: April 2016

One CE method was established for detecting deferoxamine (DFO) and deferiprone (DFR) in plasma. For β‐thalassemia patients, DFO and DFR are major medicines to treat the iron overload caused by blood transfusion. Field‐amplified sample injection combined with sweeping was used for sensitivity enhancement in CE. This method was performed on an uncoated fused‐silica capillary. After liquid–liquid extraction, the plasma samples were electrokinetically injected into capillary at +10 kV for 180 s. The phosphate buffer (100 mM) containing 50 mM triethanolamine was used as the BGE (pH 6.6). Separation buffer was phosphate buffer (100 mM, pH 3.0) containing 150 mM SDS. This method showed good linearity (r ≥ 0.9960). Precision and accuracy were evaluated by the results of RSD and relative error of intrabatch and interbatch analyses, and all of the absolute values were less than 6.12%. The LODs (S/N = 3) were 200 ng/mL for DFO, and 25 ng/mL for DFR. The LOQ (S/N = 10) of DFO and DFR were 600 and 75 ng/mL, respectively. This method was applied for clinical applications of five β‐thalassemia patients.
Increasing uranium exposure durations to the aquatic snail Amerianna cumingi does not result in lower toxicity estimates
Authors: Mooney Thomas J. , Harford Andrew J. , Trenfield Melanie A. , Pease Ceiwen J. , Hogan Alicia C. , van Dam Rick A.
Published: April 2016

Reproductive inhibition (egg production) of the aquatic snail Amerianna cumingi over 4 d has been used to derive toxicity estimates for toxicants of concern in tropical Australia. Toxicity estimates from this test have been used as chronic data points in species sensitivity distributions (SSDs) for deriving site-specific guideline values. However, revised guidance for the Australian and New Zealand Water Quality Guidelines advises that test durations for adult macroinvertebrates should be ≥14 d to be considered chronic. Hence, to strengthen the data set underpinning the site-specific guideline value for uranium (U) in Magela Creek, which receives water from the Ranger Uranium Mine in northern Australia, the toxicity of U to A. cumingi was compared after 4 d, 9 d, and 14 d. Daily U concentrations were measured because of expected U loss during testing, providing extensive chemical analyses of the U exposure during the toxicity tests. Comparison of the U concentrations causing 50% reproductive inhibition (IC50) after 4 d, 9 d, and 14 d showed no difference in toxicity (4 d IC50 = 161 μg L−1, confidence interval = 133–195; 9-d IC50 = 151 μg L−1, confidence interval = 127–180; 14-d IC50 = 153 μg L−1, confidence interval = 29–180). The present study provides evidence that test durations of <14 d are suitable for assessing chronic toxicity to U for this species and supports the use of the 4-d toxicity estimate in the SSD for U. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2851–2858. © 2016 Commonwealth of Australia
PPP6R3‐USP6 amplification: Novel oncogenic mechanism in malignant nodular fasciitis
Authors: Guo Ruifeng , Wang Xiaoke , Chou Margaret M , Asmann Yan , Wenger Doris E. , Al‐Ibraheemi Alyaa , Molavi Diana W , Aboulafia Albert , Jin Long , Fritchie Karen , Oliveira Jennifer L. , Jenkins Robert B. , Westendorf Jennifer J. , Dong Jie , Oliveira Andre M.
Published: April 2016

Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a clonal self‐limited neoplastic proliferation characterized by rearrangements of the USP6 locus in most examples. To our knowledge well‐documented malignant behavior has never been previously observed in NF. In this report we present an unusual case of NF with classical histologic features that showed a protracted clinical course characterized by multiple recurrences and eventual metastatic behavior over a period of 10 years. Molecular analyses revealed the presence and amplification of the novel PPPR6‐USP6 gene fusion, which resulted in USP6 mRNA transcriptional upregulation. These findings further support the oncogenic role of the USP6 protease in mesenchymal neoplasia and expand the biologic potential of NF. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HydroBlocks: a field‐scale resolving land surface model for application over continental extents
Authors: Chaney Nathaniel W. , Metcalfe Peter , Wood Eric F.
Published: April 2016

Land surface spatial heterogeneity plays a significant role in the water, energy, and carbon cycles over a range of temporal and spatial scales. Until now, the representation of this spatial heterogeneity in land surface models has been limited to over simplistic schemes because of computation and environmental data limitations. This study introduces HydroBlocks – a novel land surface model that represents field‐scale spatial heterogeneity of land surface processes through interacting hydrologic response units (HRUs). HydroBlocks is a coupling between the Noah‐MP land surface model and the Dynamic TOPMODEL hydrologic model. The HRUs are defined by clustering proxies of the drivers of spatial heterogeneity using high‐resolution land data. The clustering mechanism allows for each HRU's results to be mapped out in space, facilitating field‐scale application and validation. The Little Washita watershed in the USA is used to assess HydroBlocks' performance and added benefit from traditional land surface models. A comparison between the semi‐distributed and fully distributed versions of the model suggests that using 1000 HRUs is sufficient to accurately approximate the fully distributed solution. A preliminary evaluation of model performance using available in situ soil moisture observations suggests that HydroBlocks is generally able to reproduce the observed spatial and temporal dynamics of soil moisture. Model performance deficiencies can be primarily attributed to parameter uncertainty. HydroBlocks' ability to explicitly resolve field‐scale spatial heterogeneity while only requiring an increase in computation of one to two orders of magnitude when compared with existing land surface models is encouraging – ensemble field‐scale land surface modelling over continental extents is now possible. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tobacco carcinogen induces both lung cancer and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinomas in ferrets which can be attenuated by lycopene supplementation
Authors: Aizawa Koichi , Liu Chun , Tang Sanyuan , Veeramachaneni Sudipta , Hu Kang‐Quan , Smith Donald E. , Wang Xiang‐Dong
Published: April 2016

Early epidemiologic studies have reported that tobacco smoking, which is causally associated with liver cancer, is an independent risk factor for non‐alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD). Lycopene from tomatoes has been shown to be a potential preventive agent against NAFLD and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the present study, we investigated whether the tobacco carcinogen 4‐(N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosamino)‐1‐(3‐pyridyl)‐1‐butanone (NNK) induces lesions in both lungs and livers of ferrets with or without lycopene intervention. Male ferrets (6 groups, n = 8–10) were treated either with NNK (50 mg/kg BW, i.p., once a month for four consecutive months) or saline with or without dietary lycopene supplementation (2.2 and 6.6 mg/kg BW/day, respectively) for 26 weeks. Results demonstrate that NNK exposure results in higher incidences of lung tumors, HCC and steatohepatitis (which is characterized by severe inflammatory cell infiltration with concurrent fat accumulation in liver, hepatocellular ballooning degeneration and increased NF‐κB expression), as well as elevations in bilirubin and AST levels in ferrets. Lycopene supplementation at two doses prevented NNK‐induced expressions of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in the lung and NF‐κB and CYP2E1 in the liver and attenuated the NNK‐induced mortality and pathological lesions in both the lungs and livers of ferrets. The present study provided strong experimental evidence that the tobacco carcinogen NNK can induce both HCC and steatohepatitis in the ferrets and can be a useful model for studying tobacco carcinogen‐associated NAFLD and liver cancer. Furthermore, lycopene could provide potential benefits against smoke carcinogen‐induced pulmonary and hepatic injury.
Acellular hydroxyapatite‐collagen scaffolds support angiogenesis and osteogenic gene expression in an ectopic murine model: Effects of hydroxyapatite volume fraction
Authors: Meagher Matthew J. , Weiss‐Bilka Holly E. , Best Margaret E. , Boerckel Joel D. , Wagner Diane R. , Roeder Ryan K.
Published: April 2016

Acellular hydroxyapatite (HA) reinforced collagen scaffolds were previously reported to induce angiogenesis and osteogenesis after ectopic implantation but the effect of the HA volume fraction was not investigated. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of HA volume fraction onin vivoangiogenesis and osteogenesis in acellular collagen scaffolds containing 0, 20, and 40 vol % HA after subcutaneous ectopic implantation for up to 12 weeks in mice. Endogenous cell populations were able to completely and uniformly infiltrate the entire scaffold within 6 weeks independent of the HA content, but the cell density was increased in scaffolds containing HA versus collagen alone. Angiogenesis, remodeling of the original scaffold matrix, mineralization, and osteogenic gene expression were evident in scaffolds containing HA, but were not observed in collagen scaffolds. Moreover, HA promoted a dose‐dependent increase in measured vascular density, cell density, matrix deposition, and mineralization. Therefore, the results of this study suggest that HA promoted the recruitment and differentiation of endogenous cell populations to support angiogenic and osteogenic activity in collagen scaffolds after subcutaneous ectopic implantation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 2178–2188, 2016.
Analysis of the bond‐valence method for calculating 29Si and 31P magnetic shielding in covalent network solids
Authors: Holmes Sean T. , Alkan Fahri , Iuliucci Robbie J. , Mueller Karl T. , Dybowski Cecil
Published: April 2016

29Si and 31P magnetic‐shielding tensors in covalent network solids have been evaluated using periodic and cluster‐based calculations. The cluster‐based computational methodology employs pseudoatoms to reduce the net charge (resulting from missing co‐ordination on the terminal atoms) through valence modification of terminal atoms using bond‐valence theory (VMTA/BV). The magnetic‐shielding tensors computed with the VMTA/BV method are compared to magnetic‐shielding tensors determined with the periodic GIPAW approach. The cluster‐based all‐electron calculations agree with experiment better than the GIPAW calculations, particularly for predicting absolute magnetic shielding and for predicting chemical shifts. The performance of the DFT functionals CA‐PZ, PW91, PBE, rPBE, PBEsol, WC, and PBE0 are assessed for the prediction of 29Si and 31P magnetic‐shielding constants. Calculations using the hybrid functional PBE0, in combination with the VMTA/BV approach, result in excellent agreement with experiment. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhancements of Trifluoroacetic Acylated Five‐membered Heterocyclic Compounds Using as Additives in Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Chung‐Chun , Duann Yeh‐Fang
Published: April 2016

In this study, five‐membered heterocyclic compounds are trifluoroacetic acylated for the purpose of providing more long pairs to enhance electrolyte in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Four five‐membered heterocyclic compounds will be trifluoroacetic acylated with trifluoroacetic anhydride by Friedel‐Crafts acylation: furan, thiophene, pyrrole and N‐methylpyrrole. The properties will be measured by cyclic voltage (CV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), solar simulator, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). We find out that furan and thiophene which we add in electrolyte as additives can increase short circuit current and photovoltaic efficiency, and furthermore, all the trifluoroacetic acylated heterocyclic compounds perform better photoelectric abilities than non‐trifluoroacetic acylated one. The photovoltaic efficiency will be increased from 4.439% to 5.197% when 1wt% trifluoroacetic acylated thiophene is added in electrolyte as additives.
Modeling the light attenuation phenomenon during photoautotrophic growth of A. variabilisATCC 29413 in a batch photobioreactor
Authors: Salleh Siti Fatihah , Kamaruddin Azlina , Uzir Mohamad Hekarl , Mohamed Abdul Rahman , Shamsuddin Abdul Halim
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND

Light attenuation in a photobioreactor is an inevitable phenomenon, which creates a heterogeneous radiation field inside the culture. However, few investigations have been carried out on the modeling of periodic light during cyanobacterial cell growth, despite the strong effect of the attenuating light irradiance on cell growth kinetics. The purpose of this work is to analyze the available growth models (Monod, Aiba‐Edwards and Haldane) and to then develop a model that incorporates light attenuation phenomenon.

RESULTS

The inhibitory Haldane model was found to be the best model to represent the current experimental data with μmax, KsI and KiI selected as 0.25 h−1, 190 µE m−2 s−1 and 850 µE m−2 s−1, respectively. A new light attenuation model was successfully developed by establishing the relationship between the attenuated light irradiance and the cell concentration. It is applicable to a broad range of light irradiances from 25 to 910 µE m−2 s−1.

CONCLUSION

Light inhibition and attenuation imposed significant effects on cyanobacterial growth. The newly developed light attenuation model offers various possible future applications, which include automatic monitoring of the instantaneous cell concentration without the need for manual sampling, and effective optimization of the specific irradiation rate in indoor cultures. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Novel in vivo mouse model of implant related spine infection
Authors: Dworsky Eric M. , Hegde Vishal , Loftin Amanda H. , Richman Sherif , Hu Yan , Lord Elizabeth , Francis Kevin P. , Miller Lloyd S. , Wang Jeff C. , Scaduto Anthony , Bernthal Nicholas M.
Published: April 2016

Post‐operative spine infections are a challenge, as hardware must often be retained to prevent destabilization of the spine, and bacteria form biofilm on implants, rendering them inaccessible to antibiotic therapy, and immune cells. A model of posterior‐approach spinal surgery was created in which a stainless steel k‐wire was transfixed into the L4 spinous process of 12‐week‐old C57BL/six mice. Mice were then randomized to receive either one of three concentrations (1 × 102, 1 × 103, and 1 × 104 colony forming units (CFU)) of a bioluminescent strain of Staphylococcus aureus or normal saline at surgery. The mice were then longitudinally imaged for bacterial bioluminescence to quantify infection. The 1 × 102 CFU group had a decrease in signal down to control levels by POD 25, while the 1 × 103 and 1 × 104 CFU groups maintained a 10‐fold higher signal through POD 35. Bacteria were then harvested from the pin and surrounding tissue for confirmatory CFU counts. All mice in the 1 × 104 CFU group experienced wound breakdown, while no mice in the other groups had this complication. Once an optimal bacterial concentration was determined, mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein in their myeloid cells (Lys‐EGFP) were utilized to contemporaneously quantify bacterial burden, and immune response. Neutrophil fluorescence peaked for both groups on POD 3, and then declined. The infected group continued to have a response above the control group through POD 35. This study, establishes a noninvasive in vivo mouse model of spine implant infection that can quantify bacterial burden and host inflammation longitudinally in real time without requiring animal sacrifice. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:193–199, 2017.
Novel cationic coating agent for protein separation by capillary electrophoresis†
Authors: Znaleziona Joanna , Drahoňovský Dušan , Drahoš Bohuslav , Ševčík Juraj , Maier Vítězslav
Published: April 2016

A novel positively charged surfactant N‐dodecyl‐N,N‐dimethyl‐(1,2‐propandiol) ammonium chloride was used for the dynamic coating of the inner wall of a silica capillary. This paper covers the evaluation of dynamic coating and study of the influence of the analysis conditions for the magnitude and direction of electroosmotic flow as well as for the effective and selective separation of chosen proteins (ribonuclease A, cytochrome c, lysozyme, and myoglobin). The concentration of 0.1 mM of N‐dodecyl‐N,N‐dimethyl‐(1,2‐propandiol) ammonium chloride enabled the reversal of the electro‐osmotic flow, however, to separate basic as well as neutral proteins the higher concentration of the studied surfactant was necessary. The final conditions for the separation of studied proteins were set at 100 mM sodium acetate pH 5.5 with 10.0 mM of the studied surfactant. The results were also compared with those of two commercially available cationic surfactants, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide. Additionally, the developed method for protein separation was applied for the determination of lysozyme in a cheese sample. The limits of detection and quantification of lysozyme were 0.9 and 3.0 mg/L, respectively. The mean concentration of lysozyme found in the cheese sample was 167.3 ± 10.3 mg/kg.
A LFER Kinetic Study of The Reaction of 5‐Substituted Orotic Acids with Diazodiphenylmethane
Authors: Assaleh Fathi H. , Marinković Aleksandar D. , Nikolić Jasmina B. , Drmanić Saša Ž. , Brković Danijela , Prlainović Nevena , Jovanović Bratislav Ž.
Published: April 2016

Linear free energy relationships (LFER) were applied to the kinetic data for the reaction of 5‐substituted orotic acids, series 1, with diazodiphenylmethane (DDM) in N,N–dimethylformamide and compared with results obtained for 2‐substituted benzoic acids, series 2. The correlation analysis of the kinetic data with σ substituent parameters was carried out using SSP (single substituent parameter) methods. From the sign and value of proportinality constant ρ, lower sensitivity to the substituent effect was obtained in series 1, 0.876, than in the series 2, 1.877. Evaluation of substituent “ortho‐effect” was performed using the Charton model, which includes the steric substituent parameter, and Fujita and Nishioka's model, which describes the total ortho‐effect as contribution of ordinary polar effect, the ortho‐steric and ortho‐polar effects. Results of correlations, obtained by using the Charton model, showed highest contribution of the polar effect, 0.861 vs. 2.101, whereas the steric effect is of lowest significance, 0.117 vs. 0.055, for series 1 and 2, respectively. Also, a low negative value of coefficient with the steric effect, –0.08, obtained from the Fujita–Nishioka model indicated low steric effect, influencing a decrease of the reaction rate in series 1. The structural and substituent effects were also studied by using the density functional theory method, and together with kinetic data, it gave a better insight into the influence of the effect of both geometry and substituent on the π−electron density shift induced reactivity of investigated acids.
Outcomes of recalcitrant idiopathic epistaxis in children: Septoplasty as a surgical treatment
Authors: Levi Jessica M. , McKee‐Cole Katherine M. , Barth Patrick C. , Brody Robert M. , Reilly James S.
Published: April 2016

Our objective was to measure short‐ and long‐term outcomes of children presenting with recalcitrant idiopathic epistaxis. The study was an 11‐year (2000–2011) retrospective chart review of children evaluated and treated for epistaxis. A retrospective review of patients with diagnostic International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code 784.7 (epistaxis) and 21.5/21.88 (septoplasty) was completed reviewing age at presentation, type of surgery, and number of bleeding events prior to and after surgery. In our cohort, almost 100% of children with idiopathic recurrent epistaxis responded to topical treatments. About 0.2% were refractory (20/9239), and 90% of those (18/20) resolved with either a traditional septoplasty (14/20) or modified septoplasty (6/20) without cartilage excision, with a mean follow‐up of 35 months. One of the patients who did not show resolution was found to have Von Willebrand disease, which likely contributed to this outcome. Septoplasty surgery, with or without cartilage removal, appears beneficial for refractory idiopathic epistaxis in children.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 126:2833–2837, 2016
PET/CT findings within the contralateral tonsil following unilateral tonsillectomy
Authors: Hirshoren Nir , Olayos Elizabeth , Callahan Jason , Lau Eddie
Published: April 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

In the setting of considerable variation of pharyngeal palatine tonsil fluorine 18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake, we mostly rely on the asymmetry between the left‐ and right‐sided tonsils to identify underlying malignancy. The current study evaluates the FDG positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) findings within the contralateral tonsil among patients who had unilateral tonsillectomy and analyzes the cancer incidence in the contralateral tonsil with high FDG avidity.

Study Design

A retrospective cohort study in a single high‐volume tertiary cancer center.

Methods

Analysis of the PET/CT scans performed at Peter MacCallum Cancer Center (Melbourne, Australia) between June 1, 2005, and December 31, 2014.

Results

The study group consists of 160 patients who underwent 308 postunilateral tonsillectomy FDG PET/CT scans. The majority of unilateral tonsillectomies were undertaken for the treatment or diagnosis of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (85.1%).The mean follow‐up time succeeding unilateral tonsillectomy was 38.2 months.

Ten (6.25%) patients had relatively high contralateral tonsil FDG uptake (mean maximal standardized uptake value 6.9). Only one patient, with localized high FDG uptake but no other high uptake within the Waldeyer's ring and no previous PET/CT for comparison, underwent contralateral tonsillectomy. This was found to be benign. None of the 160 patients, including those nine patients, had developed contralateral tonsil malignancy at the end of the study period.

Conclusion

Positron emission tomography/computed tomography remains a reliable surveillance tool within the contralateral tonsil following unilateral tonsillectomy. Comparison with previous PET/CT scans and comparison with other subsites within the Waldeyer's ring, in combination with appropriate follow‐up and clinical judgment, facilitate PET/CT high accuracy.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:2480–2483, 2016
Aluminium Toxicity Risk for Pinus pinaster in Acid Soils (Galicia, NW Spain)
Authors: Eimil‐Fraga Cristina , Fernández‐Sanjurjo María J. , Rodríguez‐Soalleiro Roque , Álvarez‐Rodríguez Esperanza
Published: April 2016

The influence of bedrock on aluminium toxicity and aluminium speciation in the soil solution was studied in four Pinus pinaster plots. Growth and biomass parameters in the acidic soils were also evaluated in relation to different Al toxicity indices. The plots were developed over slate, biotitic schist, mica schist and granite. Samples of rhizospheric and non‐rhizospheric soil, 1‐year‐old needles and roots were collected in each study plot. Total Al, reactive Al, acid‐soluble Al, non‐labile and labile Al and Al species (Al3+, Al‐OH, Al‐F and Al‐SO4) were determined in soil solution. Reactive Al dominated over the acid‐soluble Al, and the non‐labile Al predominated over the labile Al in all soils, but particularly over mica schist. In the biotitic schist soil, the Al forms and total Al were lower, whereas concentrations were always higher over mica schist. The Al forms considered most toxic were Al3+ and Al‐OH, and Al concentrations were highest over slate and mica schist. Al toxicity indices in soil, needle and roots showed a risk of toxicity in mica schist, slate and granite. The stand site indices over slate and mica schist were lower, consistent with the high labile Al and Al3+ + Al‐OH in soil solution. Despite the high stand site index over granite, the growth efficiency was low, in accordance with very low ratios of Ca/Al in needles or fine roots. This confirmed the adaptation of maritime pine to granitic substrates. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combined liver–dual kidney transplant: Role in expanded donors
Authors: Di Laudo Marco , Ravaioli Matteo , La Manna Gaetano , Comai Giorgia , Cescon Matteo , Del Gaudio Massimo , Zanfi Chiara , Cucchetti Alessandro , Ercolani Giorgio , Pinna Antonio Daniele
Published: April 2016

Kidney injury is a common clinical feature among liver transplantation (LT) candidates that heavily affects prognosis and complicates the surgical decision‐making process. Up to 20% of patients undergoing LT demonstrate some degree of renal impairment, and 2% will benefit from a combined liver‐kidney transplantation (LKT). We present a case‐control study of all patients who underwent LKT and combined liver–dual kidney transplantation (LDKT) from November 2013 to March 2016. For the selection of LDKT candidates, a histological‐based algorithm was applied: when evaluating extended criteria donors (ECDs), with any Remuzzi score between 4 and 7, we would consider performing a LDKT instead of a simple LKT. Study groups were similar for recipient variables. In the LDKT group, donor age, donor risk index, and donor body mass index were found to be significantly higher. Biopsies obtained from all pairs of kidney grafts in the LDKT group demonstrated the following Remuzzi scores: 4+4, 4+4, 7+1, 4+5. Despite longer operative times for the LDKT procedure, no differences were observed regarding the main investigated outcome parameters. Overall survival was 100% (LDKT) and 91% (LKT, P > 0.99). This is a preliminary experience which might indicate that LDKT is a safe, feasible, and resource‐effective technique. The evaluation of a larger cohort, as well as the experience from other centers, would be needed to clearly identify its role in the ECD era. Liver Transplantation 23:28–34 2017 AASLD
Three new diagnostic verification diagrams
Authors: Wilks D. S.
Published: April 2016

Forecast evaluation is inherently multidimensional, so that graphical representations of verification datasets, which can simultaneously show multiple dimensions of forecast verification, are helpful for diagnosing the strengths and weakness of the forecasts. This paper presents three new diagnostic verification diagrams for settings that previously lacked them. The H‐F diagram is a graphical representation of the likelihood–base rate factorization, and the T‐M diagram is a graphical representation of the calibration–refinement factorization, of the joint distribution of forecasts and observations in the setting of non‐probabilistic forecasts for dichotomous events. The Conditional Boxplots diagram represents graphically the calibration–refinement factorization for probability forecasts of continuous outcomes, where each forecast is itself a continuous probability distribution function. The three new diagrams are described, and illustrated with example verification datasets.
Discrete element model for quasi‐brittle rupture under tensile and compressive loading
Authors: Koval Georg , Le Ba Danh , Chazallon Cyrille
Published: April 2016

In the absence of initial cracks, the material behavior is limited by its strength, usually defined in homogeneous conditions (of stress and strain). Beyond this limit, in quasi‐brittle case, cracks may propagate and the material behavior tends to be well described by fracture mechanics. Discrete element approaches show consistent results dealing with this transition during rupture. However, the calibration of the parameters of the numerical models (i.e., stiffness, strength, and toughness) may be quite complex and sometimes only approximative. Based on a brittle rupture criterion, we analyze the biaxial response of uncracked samples. Thus, tensile and compressive strengths are analytically identified and become direct parameters of our discrete model. Furthermore, a physically reliable crack initiation (and subsequent propagation) is shown to be induced during rupture and verified by the simulation of three‐point bending and diametral compression tests. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical characteristics, beliefs, and coping strategies among older patients with overactive bladder
Authors: Blasco Pedro , Valdivia Maria Isabel , Oña Maria Rosa , Roset Montserrat , Mora Ana Maria , Hernández Marta
Published: April 2016

Aims

To describe clinical characteristics and assess beliefs and coping strategies in older patients with overactive bladder (OAB) attending urology and gynecology clinics in Spain.

Methods

This non‐interventional, multicenter, cross‐sectional study collected demographic and clinical details from individuals aged ≥60 years with a diagnosis of OAB and score ≥3 on the Patient Perception of Intensity of Urgency Scale. Symptoms were assessed using the Bladder Control Self‐Assessment Questionnaire (B‐SAQ) and Health‐Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) rated using a simple visual analogue scale. Coping strategies and OAB beliefs were assessed using two specially designed questionnaires.

Results

Patients (n = 786) reported a mean (±SD) of 4.9 ± 2.9 urinary urgency episodes and 2.9 ± 2.3 urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) episodes per 24 hr. Mean times since diagnosis and symptom onset were 18 ± 34 and 38 ± 46 months, respectively. B‐SAQ symptom and bother scores were 7.5 ± 2.3 and 8.3 ± 2.5, respectively. Most patients (92%) reported worse HRQoL after symptom onset. Approximately, 50% of patients considered their symptoms normal for their age/gender and most (71.5%) expected symptoms to worsen with age/time. However, 80% believed that symptoms would improve with treatment. For coping strategies, 81% of patients changed their urinary frequency, 71% controlled fluid intake, and 64% used pads. Use of coping strategies was associated with UI severity.

Conclusions

Many older individuals view their OAB symptoms as a normal feature of age, which may delay diagnosis. Reduced HRQoL and adoption of coping strategies are also common. The results support the need for improved patient education, earlier recognition, and effective intervention in the older OAB population. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:774–779, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Positive affect and mortality risk in older adults: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Yujing , Han Buxin
Published: April 2016

We performed a meta‐analysis on the relationship between positive affect (PA) and mortality risk in older adults (55 years and older) and reviewed evidence on the Main Effect Model and the Stress‐buffering Model of PA. Four databases (ISI Web of Knowledge, APA PsycNET, PubMed, and Embase) were used to identify potential studies. Three types of effect sizes (ESs), odds ratio, relative risk, and hazard ratio (OR, RR, and HR), were calculated and analyzed within a random effects model. The analysis of the studies in which the effects of other variables were not controlled indicated that older adults with higher levels of positive affect had lower mortality risk (75%, HR = 0.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.66–0.85) than those with lower positive affect. In studies in which the effects of covariates were controlled, this rate was 85% (HR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.81–0.89), which was still significant. These results suggest that higher positive affect is associated with lower mortality risk in community‐dwelling older adults, even after controlling for medical, psychological, and social factors. The results point to potential methods of improving longevity, and to achieving healthy aging in older adults.
Extremely reactive carbenes: electrophiles and nucleophiles
Authors: Moss Robert A. , Wang Lei , Cang Hui , Krogh‐Jespersen Karsten
Published: April 2016

We describe the intermolecular reactivity toward alkenes of several extremely reactive carbenes as determined by experimental and computational methods. Among the examined species are the electrophiles trifluoromethylchlorocarbene and (N‐methyl‐3‐pyridinium)chlorocarbene and the nucleophiles adamantanylidene and dimethylcarbene. Phenomena discussed include negative activation energies for addition reactions and apparent compensation between the enthalpies and entropies of activation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of the crystallization on the molecular mobility and ionic DC conductivity behaviors of relaxor ferroelectric P(VDF‐TrFE‐CTFE) terpolymers
Authors: Liu Qing , Yin Xunqian , Richard Claude , Capsal Jean‐Fabien
Published: April 2016

The dynamics of semicrystalline poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene‐chlorotrifluoroethylene) (P(VDF‐TrFE‐CTFE)) terpolymers were fully investigated as a function of temperature and frequency, by means of broadband dielectric spectroscopy. Four types of relaxation regimes were observed over the full dielectric spectroscopy, namely
(second) relaxation in the sub‐glass state,
(segmental dynamics) in the rubbery state, the Curie transition and space charge carrier motion at high temperatures. Constrained segmental dynamics were observed in the terpolymer containing the highest crystalline fraction for which a narrow relaxation time distribution was found. These results indicate a decreasing average size of the cooperative rearranging region over the crystalline fraction. A decrease of the strength index values also implied a more fragile behavior for terpolymers with a higher degree of crystallinity. An exceptional increase in dielectric strength
was found as the crystallinity increased. This behavior could be explained by an enhanced interphase (constrained amorphous phase). The Curie transition showed an accelerating relaxation rate for a more fragile terpolymer. Moreover, a motion of the space charge carrier ions was observed in the higher temperature range. Finally, there was evidence that the segmental dynamics in the amorphous phase was responsible for the motion of the space charge carrier ions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 1645–1657
Radial Blast Prediction for High Explosive Cylinders initiated at Both Ends
Authors: Anastacio Aline C. , Knock Clare
Published: April 2016

This paper presents experimental results for the double ended initiation of cylindrical, explosive charges. Bare cylindrical charges of PE4 (RDX/binder 88/12 %) were used with length to diameter ratios of 1/3.7 to 5.75/1 and masses of 0.25 to 0.45 kg. Pressure measurements were taken at distances of 1 to 3.5 m in the radial direction. It was found that it was possible to predict the peak overpressure in the radial direction using P=K′ M(L/D)1/3R−3. M is the mass of explosive, L the length of the explosive charge, D the diameter of the explosive charge, and R the distance from the charge. For PE4, K′=2251 kPa m3 kg−1 for all length to diameter ratios. The double ended initiation gives a peak overpressure 1.6 times that for single ended initiation. The impulse for double ended initiation was found to be the same as for single ended initiated charges.
Probing Dy3+ magnetic moments in multiferroic perovskite DyMnO3 by optical spectroscopy
Authors: Kashchenko M. A. , Klimin S. A. , Balbashov A. M. , Popova M. N.
Published: April 2016

We present a detailed temperature‐dependent (4–300 K) spectroscopic study of DyMnO3 single crystals with distorted perovskite structure. Energies of 36 crystal‐field levels of Dy3+ in paramagnetic DyMnO3 were determined. The Dy3+ ground Kramers doublet does not split at and splits below Tlock = 18 K. The splitting grows fast at temperatures near and reaches Δ0 ≈ 11 ± 2 cm–1 at 4 K. Using the experimental temperature dependence Δ0(T), we calculate the dysprosium magnetic moment mDy(T) and the dysprosium contribution into specific heat and magnetic susceptibility. Analysing all the experimental data, we conclude that the Dy–Mn interaction is of the Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya type.

Intensity map in the temperature–wave number coordinates for a spectral line corresponding to the f–f transition of Dy3+ in DyMnO3 and a scheme of the splitting of the Dy ground Kramers doublet. Arrows represent Dy magnetic moments.

magnified image

Intensity map in the temperature–wave number coordinates for a spectral line corresponding to the f–f transition of Dy3+ in DyMnO3 and a scheme of the splitting of the Dy ground Kramers doublet. Arrows represent Dy magnetic moments.
Improvement of the forecast of convective activity from the AROME‐France system
Authors: Brousseau Pierre , Seity Yann , Ricard Didier , Léger Julien
Published: April 2016

AROME‐France is a convective‐scale numerical weather prediction system which has been running operationally at Météo‐France since the end of 2008. In order to determine its initial conditions, it uses a 3D‐Var assimilation scheme at the same resolution as the model in a continuous data assimilation cycle. In addition to conventional and satellite observations used in global data assimilation systems, dedicated observations for the mesoscale such as surface observations and radar measurements (radial winds and reflectivities) are assimilated. A major update of this system occurred in April 2015 with, among several improvements, (i) an increase of both horizontal and vertical resolutions (1.3 km and 90 vertical levels versus 2.5 km and 60 levels), and (ii) the reduction of the period of the data assimilation cycle from 3 to 1 h (as a result of the model spin‐up reduction and the tuning of the background‐error covariances). This study presents the preparatory work to these modifications and explores the main impact expected on convective activity forecasts. (i) appears to result in more realistic convective cells and better rainfall and wind gust scores and (ii) allows assimilation of more observations with information at the mesoscale which provides more accurate initial conditions and hence better subsequent rainfall forecasts. The benefits of using both (i) and (ii) in a pre‐operational configuration are shown using objective precipitation scores and illustrated by a case‐study.
3D Interdigital Au/MnO2/Au Stacked Hybrid Electrodes for On‐Chip Microsupercapacitors
Authors: Hu Haibo , Pei Zhibin , Fan Hongjin , Ye Changhui
Published: April 2016

On‐chip microsupercapacitors (MSCs) have application in powering microelectronic devices. Most of previous MSCs are made from carbon materials, which have high power but low energy density. In this work, 3D interdigital Au/MnO2/Au stacked MSCs have been fabricated based on laser printed flexible templates. This vertical‐stacked electrode configuration can effectively increase the contact area between MnO2 active layer and Au conductive layer, and thus improve the electron transport and electrolyte ion diffusion, resulting in enhanced pseudocapacitive performance of MnO2. The stacked electrode can achieve an areal capacitance up to 11.9 mF cm−2. Flexible and all‐solid‐state MSCs are assembled based on the sandwich hybrid electrodes and PVA/LiClO4 gel electrolyte and show outstanding high‐rate capacity and mechanical flexibility. The laser printing technique in this work combined with the physical sputtering and electrodeposition allows fabrication of MSC array with random sizes and patterns, making them promising power sources for small‐scale flexible microelectronic energy storage systems (e.g., next‐generation smart phones).
Quantitative Control of Pore Size of Mesoporous Carbon Nanospheres through the Self‐Assembly of Diblock Copolymer Micelles in Solution
Authors: Tian Hao , Lin Zhixing , Xu Fugui , Zheng Jingxu , Zhuang Xiaodong , Mai Yiyong , Feng Xinliang
Published: April 2016

This paper reports facile synthesis of nitrogen‐doped mesoporous carbon nanospheres (MCNSs) with average diameters of around 300 nm and well‐controlled pore sizes ranging from 8 to 38 nm, by employing polystyrene‐b‐poly(ethylene oxide) (PS‐b‐PEO) diblocks with different PS block lengths as the soft templates and dopamine as the carbon‐rich precursor. For the first time, a linear equation is achieved for the quantitative control of the average pore size of MCNSs by simply adjusting a block length of diblock copolymer. The resultant MCNSs possess high surface areas of up to 450 m2 g−1 and nitrogen doping contents of up to ≈3 wt%. As electrode materials of supercapacitors, the MCNSs exhibit excellent electrochemical performance with high specific capacitances of up to 350 F g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, superior rate capability, and cycling stability. Interestingly, the specific capacitance of the MCNSs reduces linearly with increasing pore size, whereas the normalized capacitance by specific surface area remains invariable. This represents a new spectrum of the relationship between electrochemical capacitance and pore size (>5 nm) for porous carbons, which makes a complement to the existing spectra focusing on pore diameters of <5 nm.
Assessing Emergent Readers’ Knowledge About Online Reading
Authors: Kervin Lisa , Mantei Jessica
Published: April 2016

The ability to ask questions is essential to learning, reasoning, and understanding. This column introduces a sequence of activities that incorporate the use of digital images and online texts into intentional opportunities for even the youngest learners to work with their teachers and classmates as they wonder, anticipate, explore, and think deeply about things that matter to them.