bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recipient vessel selection in the difficult neck: Outcomes of external carotid artery transposition and end‐to‐end microvascular anastomosis
Authors: Garg Ravi K. , Poore Samuel O. , Wieland Aaron M. , Sanchez Ruston , Baskaya Mustafa K. , Hartig Gregory K.
Published: July 2015

Background

Selection of recipient vessels for head and neck microvascular surgery may be limited in the previously dissected or irradiated neck. When distal branches of the external carotid artery (ECA) are unavailable, additional options for arterial inflow are needed. Here we propose high ligation of the ECA and transposition toward the lower neck as an alternative.

Methods

After obtaining institutional approval, patients who underwent head and neck tumor resection and simultaneous free flap reconstruction were identified over a 5‐year period. Patients whose recipient artery was listed in the operative report were included. Chart review was performed to identify patient demographics, operative details, and patient and flap complications. In cases where the ECA was used, the artery was traced distally with care taken to protect the hypoglossal nerve. The ECA was then divided and transposed toward the lower neck where an end‐to‐end microvascular anastomosis was performed.

Results

The recipient artery used for head and neck microsurgery was available for 176 flaps, and the facial (n = 127, 72.2%) and external carotid (n = 19, 10.8%) arteries were most commonly used. There were 0 flap thromboses in the ECA group compared to 3 flap thromboses that occurred with other recipient arteries (P = 1.00). No cases of first bite syndrome or hypoglossal nerve injury were identified.

Conclusions

The ECA may be transposed toward the lower neck and used for end‐to‐end microvascular anastomosis without complication of hypoglossal nerve injury or first bite syndrome. This method may be considered an alternative in patients with limited recipient vessel options for head and neck microsurgery. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 37:96–100, 2017.
16‐channel bow tie antenna transceiver array for cardiac MR at 7.0 tesla
Authors: Oezerdem Celal , Winter Lukas , Graessl Andreas , Paul Katharina , Els Antje , Weinberger Oliver , Rieger Jan , Kuehne Andre , Dieringer Matthias , Hezel Fabian , Voit Dirk , Frahm Jens , Niendorf Thoralf
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To design, evaluate, and apply a bow tie antenna transceiver radiofrequency (RF) coil array tailored for cardiac MRI at 7.0 Tesla (T).

Methods

The radiofrequency (RF) coil array comprises 16 building blocks each containing a bow tie shaped λ/2‐dipole antenna. Numerical simulations were used for transmission field homogenization and RF safety validation. RF characteristics were examined in a phantom study. The array's suitability for high spatial resolution two‐dimensional (2D) CINE imaging and for real time imaging of the heart was examined in a volunteer study.

Results

The arrays transmission fields and RF characteristics are suitable for cardiac MRI at 7.0T. The coil performance afforded a spatial resolution as good as (0.8 × 0.8 × 2.5) mm3 for segmented 2D CINE MRI at 7.0T which is by a factor of 12 superior versus standardized protocols used in clinical practice at 1.5T. The proposed transceiver array supports 1D acceleration factors of up to R = 6 without impairing image quality significantly.

Conclusion

The 16‐channel bow tie antenna transceiver array supports accelerated and high spatial resolution cardiac MRI. The array is compatible with multichannel transmission and provides a technological basis for future clinical assessment of parallel transmission techniques at 7.0 Tesla. Magn Reson Med 75:2553–2565, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of continuous and discontinuous constitutive models to simulate concrete behaviour under mixed‐mode failure conditions
Authors: Bobiński Jerzy , Tejchman Jacek
Published: July 2015

The paper presents detailed FE simulation results of concrete elements under mixed‐mode failure conditions according to the so‐called shear‐tension test by Nooru‐Mohamed, characterized by curved cracks. A continuous and discontinuous numerical two‐dimensional approach was used. In order to describe the concrete's behaviour within continuum mechanics, two different constitutive models were used. First, an elasto‐plastic model with isotropic hardening and softening was assumed. In a compression regime, a Drucker–Prager criterion with a non‐associated flow rule was used. In turn, in a tensile regime, a Rankine criterion with an associated flow rule was adopted. Second, an isotropic damage constitutive model was applied with a single scalar damage parameter and different definitions of the equivalent strain. Both constitutive laws were enriched by a characteristic length of micro‐structure to capture properly strain localization. As an alternative approach, the extended finite element method was used. Our results were compared with the experimental ones and with results of other FE simulations reported in the literature. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Harmless hydrogels based on PVA/Na+‐MMT nanocomposites for biomedical applications: Fabrication and characterization
Authors: Karimi Ali , Wan Daud Wan Mohd Ashri
Published: July 2015

A series of nanocomposite hydrogels were prepared by a freeze‐thaw process, using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as polymer matrix and 0–10 wt% of hydrophilic natural Na‐montmorillonite (Na+‐MMT), free from any modification, as composite aggregates. The effect of nanoclay content and the sonication process on the nanocomposite microstructure and morphology as well as its properties (physical, mechanical, and thermal) were investigated. The microstructure and morphology were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction technique. The thermal stability and mechanical properties of nanocomposite hydrogels were examined using thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis; moreover hardness and water vapor transmission rate measurements. It was concluded that the microstructure, morphology, physical (thermal) and mechanical properties of nanocomposite hydrogels have been modified followed by addition of nanoclay aggregates. The results showed that Na+‐MMT may act as a co‐crosslinker. Based on the results obtained, the nanocomposite hydrogel PVA/Na+‐MMT synthesized by a freeze‐thaw process, appeared to be a good candidate for biomedical applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:1135–1143, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Rapid identification of new minor chemical constituents from Smilacis Glabrae Rhizoma by combined use of UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS, preparative HPLC and UHPLC‐SPE‐NMR‐MS techniques
Authors: Gu Wan‐Yi , Li Na , Leung Elaine Lai‐Han , Zhou Hua , Yao Xiao‐Jun , Liu Liang , Wu Jian‐Lin
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Herbs are an important resource for new drug development. However, the conventional approach for the discovery of new compounds from herbs was time‐consuming, tedious, and inefficient.

Objectives

Establish a quick approach to identify new minor constituents in herbs.

Methods

The constituents in herbs were firstly analysed using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS). Based on the accurate masses, isotopic ions, and the characteristic fragmentation ions in the mass spectra, the molecular compositions and possible structures of compounds were first deduced. After being enriched by a preparative HPLC method, the potential new minor structures were definitely identified by an on‐line UHPLC‐solid phase extraction‐nuclear magnetic resonance‐mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐SPE‐NMR‐MS) approach.

Results

By combined the use of UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS, preparative HPLC and UHPLC‐SPE‐NMR, three new minor compounds were definitely identified as bis‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylpropanoid‐substituted catechins (A2 and A3) and 4″‐formyl‐astilbin (B5). In addition, five isomers of bis‐dihydroxyphenylpropanoid‐substituted catechin (A1, A4–A7), four isomers of 4″‐formyl‐astilbin (B1–B4), engeletin formates and isomers (C1–C5), formyl‐cinchonains (D1–D4), formyl‐caffeoylshikimic acid (E1–E4) were also tentatively determined by MS and MS/MS characterisation.

Conclusion

The combination of UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS, preparative HPLC and UHPLC‐SPE‐NMR‐MS techniques is a quick and effective approach for finding new minor constitutes from herbs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and film properties of epoxy esters modified with amino resins from glycolysis products of postconsumer PET bottles
Authors: Çam Çiğdem , Bal Ayça , Güçlü Gamze
Published: July 2015

Glycolysis of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flakes obtained from grinding postconsumer bottles was carried out at 225–250°C and molar ratios of PET/ethylene glycol were taken as 1/1, 1/1.5, 1/5, and 1/10. Reaction product was extracted by hot water for three times and water‐soluble crystallizable fraction and water‐insoluble fraction were obtained. These fractions were characterized by acid and hydroxyl value determinations, differential scanning calorimeter analysis, and 1H‐NMR analysis. Glycolysis product was used for synthesis of PET‐based epoxy resin. This epoxy resin was used to prepare epoxy ester resins having 40% and 50% oil content. Epoxy ester resin having 40% oil content was modified with urea‐formaldehyde and melamine‐formaldehyde resins for synthesis of epoxy ester–amino resin. Physical and chemical film properties of epoxy ester and modified epoxy ester resins were investigated. All the epoxy ester and modified epoxy ester films were having excellent adhesion, water, and salt water resistance properties. Modification of PET‐based epoxy ester resins with amino resin has significantly improved hardness, impact resistance, and alkaline and acid resistance of resin films. As a result, PET oligomers obtained from glycolysis of postconsumer PET bottles are suitable for manufacturing of amino‐resin‐modified epoxy ester resins that have improved physical and chemical surface coating properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2519–2525, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
The effects of sonication time and frequencies on degradation, crystallization behavior, and mechanical properties of polypropylene
Authors: Liu Ying , Xie Linsheng , Ma Yulu , Xue Kaikai , Qiu Wei , Shan Tingting , Gao Gang
Published: July 2015

The effects of ultrasound with different frequencies on the degradation, crystallization behavior, and mechanical properties of polypropylene were investigated by means of intrinsic viscosity, gel permeation chromatography, dynamic rheological measurements, X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscopy, and tensile and impact measurements. The results demonstrated that the degradation extent of polypropylene (PP) increased with increasing sonication time, especially for the samples treated in more than 5 min. Meanwhile, PP treated at 20 KHz was more easily degraded than other two frequencies. On the other hand, β‐form PP could be induced by ultrasonic irradiation, its amount increased as the sonication time increased to 3 min and then decreased as the time further increased due to the degradation of PP. Likewise, β‐phase was more easily formed when PP was treated at 20 KHz. The results of mechanical properties showed that the toughness of PP could be enhanced by the formation of β−phase, while the mechanical properties would be weakened by the substantial degradation under ultrasonic irradiation with higher intensity. Therefore, it was believed that the effects of both sonication time and frequency should account for the balance between toughening and degradation of PP. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2566–2575, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Potential gain in photocurrent generation for Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cells by using In2O3 as a transparent conductive oxide layer
Authors: Keller Jan , Lindahl Johan , Edoff Marika , Stolt Lars , Törndahl Tobias
Published: July 2015

This study highlights the potential of atomic layer deposited In2O3 as a highly transparent and conductive oxide (TCO) layer in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGSe) solar cells. It is shown that the efficiency of solar cells which use Zn‐Sn‐O (ZTO) as an alternative buffer layer can be increased by employing In2O3 as a TCO because of a reduction of the parasitic absorption in the window layer structure, resulting in 1.7 mA/cm2 gain in short circuit current density (Jsc). In contrast, a degradation of device properties is observed if the In2O3 TCO is combined with the conventional CdS buffer layer. The estimated improvement for large‐scale modules is discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanopatterning and micropatterning of cobalt containing block copolymers via phase‐separation and lithographic techniques
Authors: Hadadpour Mahboubeh , Ragogna Paul J.
Published: July 2015

Reversible addition fragmentation transfer (RAFT) agent functionalized polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS‐RAFT) was used as a macro‐RAFT agent to polymerize a mixed sandwich cobaltocene containing monomer featuring η5‐cyclopentadienyl‐cobalt‐η4‐cyclobutadiene. High molecular weight block copolymers (BCP) consisting of a metallic block and a PDMS block with excellent control over molecular weight and polydispersity were prepared. Solid‐state self‐assembly of this BCP resulted in hexagonal domains of metallopolymer phase‐separated from PDMS. In solution, spherical micelles with a metallic core, stabilized by a PDMS corona were prepared. Pyrolysis of the BCP resulted in magnetic nanoparticles with 30% char yield. The BCP was used as an ink material for microcontact printing (μCP) to transfer long‐ranged patterns. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2747–2754
Gas permeation and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy of poly(ether imides) containing main chain ethylene oxide segments
Authors: Pethrick Richard A. , Santamaria‐Mendia Fernan
Published: July 2015

This article reports a study of four poly(ether imide)s with varying ethylene oxide (EO) segments lengths using positron annihilation lifetimes spectroscopy, wide angle X‐ray diffraction, and gas transport measurements. The measured properties change with the length of the EO segment. Comparison of the poly(ether imide) containing a single ether linkage with those containing one and three EO units, show progressive changes of the permeability and diffusion coefficient with void size. However, when six EO units are incorporated into the polymer backbone certain of the observed trends are reversed. Incorporation of flexible EO segments in the polymer backbone allows changes in the chain–chain interactions which increases the packing density and changes the void size and influences the solubility coefficients leading to variation of the gas transport characteristics. Differences in the measured solubility parameters reflect the extent to which the gases molecules are able to interact with the polymer matrix. The highest values obtained for the gas separation for carbon dioxide and nitrogen is observed when EO has a value of three. Further increasing of the length of the EO segments in the poly(ether imide) leads to a reduction the gas transport properties and hence the extent to which gas separation would be achieved. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 1654–1662
Patient exposure to extremely low‐frequency magnetic fields during laparoscopic and robotic surgeries
Authors: Chung Jai Won , Park Jee Soo , Choi Soo Beom , Kim Deok Won
Published: July 2015

Background

Laparoscopic and robotic surgeries require many electronic devices, and the hazard of extremely low‐frequency magnetic fields (ELF‐MFs) from these devices to humans remains uncertain. This study aimed to measure and compare patients' exposure levels to ELF‐MFs in laparoscopic and robotic surgeries.

Methods

The intensity of ELF‐MF exposure to patients was measured every 10 s during 30 laparoscopic surgeries and 30 robotic surgeries using portable ELF‐MF measuring devices with logging capabilities.

Results

The mean ELF‐MF exposures were 0.11 ± 0.07 μT for laparoscopic surgeries and 0.12 ± 0.10 μT for robotic surgeries. There were no significant differences between the laparoscopic and robotic surgeries.

Conclusions

Patients' mean ELF‐MF exposure levels in laparoscopic and robotic surgeries were lower than 0.2 μT, which is considered safe according to previous studies. However, because many medical devices have been implemented for multiple purposes in hospitals, the MF environment in hospitals regarding patient health should not be overlooked. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Prevent Allostimulation In Vivo and Control Checkpoints of Th1 Priming: Migration of Human DC to Lymph Nodes and NK Cell Activation
Authors: Consentius C. , Akyüz L. , Schmidt-Lucke J. A. , Tschöpe C. , Pinzur L. , Ofir R. , Reinke P. , Volk H.-D. , Juelke K.
Published: July 2015

Although the immunomodulatory potency of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) is well established, the mechanisms behind are still not clear. The crosstalk between myeloid dendritic cells (mDC) and natural killer (NK) cells and especially NK cell-derived interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) play a pivotal role in the development of type 1 helper (Th1) cell immune responses. While many studies explored the isolated impact of MSC on either in vitro generated DC, NK, or T cells, there are only few data available on the complex interplay between these cells. Here, we investigated the impact of MSC on the functionality of human mDC and the consequences for NK cell and Th1 priming in vitro and in vivo. In critical limb ischemia patients, who have been treated with allogeneic placenta-derived mesenchymal-like stromal cells (PLX-PAD), no in vivo priming of Th1 responses toward the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) mismatches could be detected. Further in vitro studies revealed that mDC reprogramming could play a central role for these effects. Following crosstalk with MSC, activated mDC acquired a tolerogenic phenotype characterized by reduced migration toward CCR7 ligand and impaired ability to stimulate NK cell-derived IFN-γ production. These effects, which were strongly related to an altered interleukin (IL)−12/IL-10 production by mDC, were accompanied by an effective prevention of Th1 priming in vivo. Our findings provide novel evidence for the regulation of Th1 priming by MSC via modulation of mDC and NK cell crosstalk and show that off-the-shelf produced MHC-mismatched PLX-PAD can be used in patients without any sign of immunogenicity. Stem Cells  2015;33:3087–3099
Exploration of Dimethylzinc‐Mediated Radical Reactions
Authors: Yamada Ken‐ichi , Tomioka Kiyoshi
Published: July 2015

In this account, our studies on radical reactions that are promoted by dimethylzinc and air are described. Advantages of this reagent and differences from conventional radical initiators, such as triethylborane, are discussed.
Carbyne: The Molecular Approach
Authors: Tykwinski Rik R.
Published: July 2015

For the last 60+ years, the synthesis and study of cumulenes and polyynes have been the focus of a small, but dedicated, group of researchers. Many of the remarkable electronic, optical, and structural properties of cumulenes and polyynes had already been identified in the earliest reports. The molecular lengths achievable by the initial syntheses were, unfortunately, somewhat limited by synthetic methods available. For the past 15 years, we have worked toward expanding on the synthesis of cumulenes and polyynes through the development of new methods and stabilization motifs. As new compounds have become available, homologous series of cumulenes and polyynes have then been examined as a function of molecular length. While we are not yet there, we would like to eventually provide a general description of the sp‐carbon allotrope carbyne, and this account presents some of our efforts toward this goal.
Time‐adaptive wind turbine model for an LES framework
Authors: Sharma V. , Calaf M. , Lehning M. , Parlange M. B.
Published: July 2015

Most large‐eddy simulation studies related to wind energy have been carried out either by using a fixed pressure gradient to ensure that mean wind direction is perpendicular to the wind turbine rotor disk or by forcing the flow with a geostrophic wind and timely readjusting the turbines' orientation. This has not allowed for the study of wind farm characteristics with a time‐varying wind vector. In this paper, a new time‐adaptive wind turbine model for the large‐eddy simulation framework is introduced. The new algorithm enables the wind turbines to dynamically realign with the incoming wind vector and self‐adjust the yaw orientation with the incoming wind vector similar to real wind turbines. The performance of the new model is tested first with a neutrally stratified atmospheric flow forced with a time‐varying geostrophic wind vector. A posteriori, the new model is used to further explore the interaction between a synthetic time‐changing thermal atmospheric boundary layer and an embedded wind farm. Results show that there is significant potential power to be harvested during the unstable time periods at the cost of designing wind turbines capable of adapting to the enhanced variance of these periods. Stable periods provide less power but are more constant over time with an enhanced lateral shear induced by an increased change in wind direction with height. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phosphodiester Cleavage Promoted by an Asymmetric Di­nuclear Zinc Complex: Synthesis, Structure, and Catalytic ­Activity
Authors: Wu Ai‐Zhi , Chen Long , Wang Tao
Published: July 2015

The dinuclear ZnII complex [Zn2L(DNBA)2]BPh4·EtOH (1) (DNBA = 3,5‐dinitrobenzonic acid) with an asymmetric dinuclear ligand, N‐4‐methyl‐homopiperazine‐N′‐[N‐(2‐pyridylmethyl)‐N‐2‐(2‐pyridylethyl)amine]‐1,3‐diamino‐propan‐2‐ol (HL), was synthesized and characterized. Single crystal X‐ray crystallographic analysis shows that the coordination around the two ZnII ions in 1 is significantly asymmetric, and the distance between both atoms is 3.426 Å, which is close to the Zn···Zn distance in related natural dinuclear metalloenzymes. Phosphodiesterase activity of Zn2L in situ formed from a 2:1 mixture of Zn2+ ion and HL was investigated using bis(4‐nitrophenyl) phosphate (BNPP) as substrate. The pH dependence of the BNPP cleavage in aqueous buffer media reveals a bell‐shaped pH‐kobs profile with an optimum at about pH 7.9, which is parallel to the formation of the dinuclear species Zn2L‐OH obtained from the potentiometric titration. The catalytic rate constant (kcat) is 6.30 × 10–4 s–1 at pH 7.9 and 25 °C, which is approx. 108‐fold higher than that of the uncatalyzed reaction. The homopiperazine bound deprotonated Zn‐OH group is responsible for the hydrolysis reaction. The possible mechanism for the BNPP cleavage promoted by Zn2L is proposed on the basis of kinetic and spectral analysis.
Successful transfer of a Goodfellow's tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus goodfellowi) pouch young to a yellow‐footed rock wallaby (Petrogale xanthopus) surrogate
Authors: McLelland David J. , Fielder Kate , Males Gayl , Langley Nathan , Schultz David
Published: July 2015

A 47‐day‐old orphaned Goodfellow's tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus goodfellowi) joey was successfully cross‐fostered onto a yellow‐footed rock wallaby (Petrogale xanthopus). The joey was subsequently taken for hand‐rearing at age 5 months. This is the first report of the cross‐fostering technique, well‐established in other macropods, being applied to a Dendrolagus sp. This technique can be considered as a viable option to raise young orphaned tree kangaroos, and as a tool to accelerate breeding in captive breeding programs of Dendrolagus spp. Zoo Biol. 34:460–462, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiple social identifications and adolescents' self‐esteem
Authors: Benish‐Weisman Maya , Daniel Ella , Schiefer David , Möllering Anna , Knafo‐Noam Ariel
Published: July 2015

The research examined the relationship between multiple social identifications and self‐esteem. Early adolescents (M = 11.4, SD = .95) and mid‐adolescents (M = 15.9, SD = 1.18) from Germany and Israel (n = 2337) were studied. Respondents described their social identification as students, family members, and as members of the majority national group and reported self‐esteem. A longitudinal, cross‐sectional and cross‐cultural design revealed, as predicted, multiple social identifications related positively to self‐esteem concurrently; they also related positively to self‐esteem longitudinally over the course of a year. Moreover, multiple social identifications were found to be antecedent to self‐esteem, not vice versa. Finally, multiple social identifications were found to decrease over time. The article discusses the contribution of multiple social identifications to self‐esteem at different ages and in various contexts.
Potential regulatory phosphorylation sites in a Medicago truncatula plasma membrane proton pump implicated during early symbiotic signaling in roots
Authors: Nguyen Thao T. , Volkening Jeremy D. , Rose Christopher M. , Venkateshwaran Muthusubramanian , Westphall Michael S. , Coon Joshua J. , Ané Jean-Michel , Sussman Michael R.
Published: July 2015

In plants and fungi the plasma membrane proton pump generates a large proton‐motive force that performs essential functions in many processes, including solute transport and the control of cell elongation. Previous studies in yeast and higher plants have indicated that phosphorylation of an auto‐inhibitory domain is involved in regulating pump activity. In this report we examine the Medicago truncatula plasma membrane proton pump gene family, and in particular MtAHA5. Yeast complementation assays with phosphomimetic mutations at six candidate sites support a phosphoregulatory role for two residues, suggesting a molecular model to explain early Nod factor‐induced changes in the plasma membrane proton‐motive force of legume root cells.
Mathematical modeling reveals a critical role for cyclin D1 dynamics in phenotype switching during glioma differentiation
Authors: Sun Xiaoqiang , Zheng Xiaoke , Zhang Jiajun , Zhou Tianshou , Yan Guangmei , Zhu Wenbo
Published: July 2015

Glioma differentiation therapy is a novel modality to increase anti‐glioma effects using specific drugs to induce glioma cell differentiation to glia‐like cells. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying glioma differentiation remain poorly understood. In this study, we built an experiment‐integrated mathematical model for glioma differentiation signaling pathways. Our modeling and experimental analysis revealed that a “one‐way‐switch” bifurcation of cyclin D1 dynamics was critical for controlling the phenotypic transition of glioma cells. We also quantitatively evaluated drug combinations toward a synergistic therapeutic effect. These results provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying glioma differentiation and implications for the design of novel therapeutic targets in anti‐cancer therapy.
Magnetic resonance imaging in Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 2
Authors: Jack Clifford R. , Barnes Josephine , Bernstein Matt A. , Borowski Bret J. , Brewer James , Clegg Shona , Dale Anders M. , Carmichael Owen , Ching Christopher , DeCarli Charles , Desikan Rahul S. , Fennema‐Notestine Christine , Fjell Anders M. , Fletcher Evan , Fox Nick C. , Gunter Jeff , Gutman Boris A. , Holland Dominic , Hua Xue , Insel Philip , Kantarci Kejal , Killiany Ron J. , Krueger Gunnar , Leung Kelvin K. , Mackin Scott , Maillard Pauline , Malone Ian B. , Mattsson Niklas , McEvoy Linda , Modat Marc , Mueller Susanne , Nosheny Rachel , Ourselin Sebastien , Schuff Norbert , Senjem Matthew L. , Simonson Alix , Thompson Paul M. , Rettmann Dan , Vemuri Prashanthi , Walhovd Kristine , Zhao Yansong , Zuk Samantha , Weiner Michael
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) is now in its 10th year. The primary objective of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) core of ADNI has been to improve methods for clinical trials in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related disorders.

Methods

We review the contributions of the MRI core from present and past cycles of ADNI (ADNI‐1, ‐Grand Opportunity and ‐2). We also review plans for the future‐ADNI‐3.

Results

Contributions of the MRI core include creating standardized acquisition protocols and quality control methods; examining the effect of technical features of image acquisition and analysis on outcome metrics; deriving sample size estimates for future trials based on those outcomes; and piloting the potential utility of MR perfusion, diffusion, and functional connectivity measures in multicenter clinical trials.

Discussion

Over the past decade the MRI core of ADNI has fulfilled its mandate of improving methods for clinical trials in AD and will continue to do so in the future.
The Worldwide Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative: An update
Authors: Hendrix James A. , Finger Brad , Weiner Michael W. , Frisoni Giovanni B. , Iwatsubo Takeshi , Rowe Christopher C. , Kim Seong Yoon , Guinjoan Salvador M. , Sevlever Gustavo , Carrillo Maria C.
Published: July 2015

The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), launched in 2004, has worked to accelerate drug development by validating imaging and blood/cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease clinical treatment trials. ADNI is a naturalistic (nontreatment) multisite longitudinal study. A true public‐private partnership, the initiative has set a new standard for data sharing without embargo and for the use of biomarkers in dementia research. The ADNI effort in North America is not the only such effort in the world. The Alzheimer's Association recognized these global efforts and formed Worldwide ADNI (WW‐ADNI). By creating a platform for international collaboration and cooperation, WW‐ADNI's goals are to harmonize projects and results across geographical regions and to facilitate data management and availability to investigators around the world. WW‐ADNI projects include those based in North America, Europe, Japan, Australia, Korea, and Argentina.
School Closure Decisions Made by Local Health Department Officials During the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Outbreak
Authors: Kayman Harvey , Salter Sarah , Mittal Maanvi , Scott Winifred , Santos Nicholas , Tran Diana , Ma Ryan
Published: July 2015

Objectives

The goal of this study was to gain insights into the decision-making processes used by California public health officials during real-time crises. The decision-making processes used by California public health officials during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic were examined by a survey research team from the University of California Berkeley.

Methods

The survey was administered to local public health officials in California. Guidelines published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had recommended school closure, and local public health officials had to decide whether to follow these recommendations. Chi-squared tests were used to make comparisons in the descriptive statistics.

Results

The response rate from local public health departments was 79%. A total of 73% of respondents were involved in the decision-making process. Respondents stated whether they used or did not use 15 ethical, logistical, and political preselected criteria. They expressed interest in receiving checklists and additional training in decision-making.

Conclusions

Public health decision-makers do not appear to have a standard process for crisis decision-making and would benefit from having an organized decision-making model. The survey showed that ethical, logistical, and political criteria were considered but were not prioritized in any meaningful way. A new decision-making tool kit for public health decision-makers plus implementation training is warranted. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:464–471)
New perspectives on bioactivity of olive oil: evidence from animal models, human interventions and the use of urinary proteomic biomarkers
Authors: Silva S. , Combet E. , Figueira M. E. , Koeck T. , Mullen W. , Bronze M. R.
Published: July 2015

Olive oil (OO) is the primary source of fat in the Mediterranean diet and has been associated with longevity and a lower incidence of chronic diseases, particularly CHD. Cardioprotective effects of OO consumption have been widely related with improved lipoprotein profile, endothelial function and inflammation, linked to health claims of oleic acid and phenolic content of OO. With CVD being a leading cause of death worldwide, a review of the potential mechanisms underpinning the impact of OO in the prevention of disease is warranted. The current body of evidence relies on mechanistic studies involving animal and cell-based models, epidemiological studies of OO intake and risk factor, small- and large-scale human interventions, and the emerging use of novel biomarker techniques associated with disease risk. Although model systems are important for mechanistic research nutrition, methodologies and experimental designs with strong translational value are still lacking. The present review critically appraises the available evidence to date, with particular focus on emerging novel biomarkers for disease risk assessment. New perspectives on OO research are outlined, especially those with scope to clarify key mechanisms by which OO consumption exerts health benefits. The use of urinary proteomic biomarkers, as highly specific disease biomarkers, is highlighted towards a higher translational approach involving OO in nutritional recommendations.
"Amazing" Activity Evident on Pluto's Surface
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: July 2015

Scientists struggle to explain perplexing features revealed by the first close-up of the icy body's surface.
PI3K/AKT activation induces PTEN ubiquitination and destabilization accelerating tumourigenesis
Authors: Lee Min-Sik , Jeong Man-Hyung , Lee Hyun-Woo , Han Hyun-Ji , Ko Aram , Hewitt Stephen M. , Kim Jae-Hoon , Chun Kyung-Hee , Chung Joon-Yong , Lee Cheolju , Cho Hanbyoul , Song Jaewhan
Published: July 2015

The activity of the phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) is known to be suppressed via post-translational modification. However, the mechanism and physiological significance by which post-translational modifications lead to PTEN suppression remain unclear. Here we demonstrate that PTEN destabilization is induced by EGFR- or oncogenic PI3K mutation-mediated AKT activation in cervical cancer. EGFR/PI3K/AKT-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of PTEN are dependent on the MKRN1 E3 ligase. These processes require the stabilization of MKRN1 via AKT-mediated phosphorylation. In cervical cancer patients with high levels of pAKT and MKRN1 expression, PTEN protein levels are low and correlate with a low 5-year survival rate. Taken together, our results demonstrate that PI3K/AKT signals enforce positive-feedback regulation by suppressing PTEN function.
Gains and losses of coral skeletal porosity changes with ocean acidification acclimation
Authors: Fantazzini Paola , Mengoli Stefano , Pasquini Luca , Bortolotti Villiam , Brizi Leonardo , Mariani Manuel , Di Giosia Matteo , Fermani Simona , Capaccioni Bruno , Caroselli Erik , Prada Fiorella , Zaccanti Francesco , Levy Oren , Dubinsky Zvy , Kaandorp Jaap A. , Konglerd Pirom , Hammel Jörg U. , Dauphin Yannicke , Cuif Jean-Pierre , Weaver James C. , Fabricius Katharina E. , Wagermaier Wolfgang , Fratzl Peter , Falini Giuseppe , Goffredo Stefano
Published: July 2015

Ocean acidification is predicted to impact ecosystems reliant on calcifying organisms, potentially reducing the socioeconomic benefits these habitats provide. Here we investigate the acclimation potential of stony corals living along a pH gradient caused by a Mediterranean CO2 vent that serves as a natural long-term experimental setting. We show that in response to reduced skeletal mineralization at lower pH, corals increase their skeletal macroporosity (features >10 μm) in order to maintain constant linear extension rate, an important criterion for reproductive output. At the nanoscale, the coral skeleton’s structural features are not altered. However, higher skeletal porosity, and reduced bulk density and stiffness may contribute to reduce population density and increase damage susceptibility under low pH conditions. Based on these observations, the almost universally employed measure of coral biomineralization, the rate of linear extension, might not be a reliable metric for assessing coral health and resilience in a warming and acidifying ocean.
Efficient water reduction with gallium phosphide nanowires
Authors: Standing Anthony , Assali Simone , Gao Lu , Verheijen Marcel A. , van Dam Dick , Cui Yingchao , Notten Peter H. L. , Haverkort Jos E. M. , Bakkers Erik P. A. M.
Published: July 2015

Photoelectrochemical hydrogen production from solar energy and water offers a clean and sustainable fuel option for the future. Planar III/V material systems have shown the highest efficiencies, but are expensive. By moving to the nanowire regime the demand on material quantity is reduced, and new materials can be uncovered, such as wurtzite gallium phosphide, featuring a direct bandgap. This is one of the few materials combining large solar light absorption and (close to) ideal band-edge positions for full water splitting. Here we report the photoelectrochemical reduction of water, on a p-type wurtzite gallium phosphide nanowire photocathode. By modifying geometry to reduce electrical resistance and enhance optical absorption, and modifying the surface with a multistep platinum deposition, high current densities and open circuit potentials were achieved. Our results demonstrate the capabilities of this material, even when used in such low quantities, as in nanowires.
A portable expression resource for engineering cross-species genetic circuits and pathways
Authors: Kushwaha Manish , Salis Howard M.
Published: July 2015

Genetic circuits and metabolic pathways can be reengineered to allow organisms to process signals and manufacture useful chemicals. However, their functions currently rely on organism-specific regulatory parts, fragmenting synthetic biology and metabolic engineering into host-specific domains. To unify efforts, here we have engineered a cross-species expression resource that enables circuits and pathways to reuse the same genetic parts, while functioning similarly across diverse organisms. Our engineered system combines mixed feedback control loops and cross-species translation signals to autonomously self-regulate expression of an orthogonal polymerase without host-specific promoters, achieving nontoxic and tuneable gene expression in diverse Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Combining 50 characterized system variants with mechanistic modelling, we show how the cross-species expression resource’s dynamics, capacity and toxicity are controlled by the control loops’ architecture and feedback strengths. We also demonstrate one application of the resource by reusing the same genetic parts to express a biosynthesis pathway in both model and non-model hosts.
A dendritic nano-sized hexanuclear ruthenium(II) complex as a one- and two-photon luminescent tracking non-viral gene vector
Authors: Qiu Kangqiang , Yu Bole , Huang Huaiyi , Zhang Pingyu , Huang Juanjuan , Zou Shanshan , Chen Yu , Ji Liangnian , Chao Hui
Published: July 2015

Fluorescent tracking gene delivery could provide us with a better understanding of the critical steps in the transfection process. However, for in vivo tracking applications, a small diameter (<10 nm) is one of the rigorous requirements for tracking vectors. Herein, we have demonstrated a new paradigm for two-photon tracking gene delivery based on a dendritic nano-sized hexanuclear ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complex. Because this metallodendrimer has a multivalent periphery, the complex, which is 6.1 nm, showed high stability and excellent dispersibility and could stepwise condense DNA in vitro. With the outstanding photochemical properties of Ru(II) polypyridyl, this complex could track gene delivery in vivo using one- and two-photon imaging.
Theoretical requirements for broadband perfect absorption of acoustic waves by ultra-thin elastic meta-films
Authors: Duan Yuetao , Luo Jie , Wang Guanghao , Hang Zhi Hong , Hou Bo , Li Jensen , Sheng Ping , Lai Yun
Published: July 2015

We derive and numerically demonstrate that perfect absorption of elastic waves can be achieved in two types of ultra-thin elastic meta-films: one requires a large value of almost pure imaginary effective mass density and a free space boundary, while the other requires a small value of almost pure imaginary effective modulus and a hard wall boundary. When the pure imaginary density or modulus exhibits certain frequency dispersions, the perfect absorption effect becomes broadband, even in the low frequency regime. Through a model analysis, we find that such almost pure imaginary effective mass density with required dispersion for perfect absorption can be achieved by elastic metamaterials with large damping. Our work provides a feasible approach to realize broadband perfect absorption of elastic waves in ultra-thin films.
Rice Xa21 primed genes and pathways that are critical for combating bacterial blight infection
Authors: Peng Hai , Chen Zheng , Fang Zhiwei , Zhou Junfei , Xia Zhihui , Gao Lifen , Chen Lihong , Li Lili , Li Tiantian , Zhai Wenxue , Zhang Weixiong
Published: July 2015

Rice bacterial blight (BB) is a devastating rice disease. The Xa21 gene confers a broad and persistent resistance against BB. We introduced Xa21 into Oryza sativa L ssp indica (rice 9311), through multi-generation backcrossing and generated a nearly isogenic, blight-resistant 9311/Xa21 rice. Using next-generation sequencing, we profiled the transcriptomes of both varieties before and within four days after infection of bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae. The identified differentially expressed (DE) genes and signaling pathways revealed insights into the functions of Xa21. Surprisingly, before infection 1,889 genes on 135 of the 316 signaling pathways were DE between the 9311/Xa21 and 9311 plants. These Xa21-mediated basal pathways included mainly those related to the basic material and energy metabolisms and many related to phytohormones such as cytokinin, suggesting that Xa21 triggered redistribution of energy, phytohormones and resources among essential cellular activities before invasion. Counter-intuitively, after infection, the DE genes between the two plants were only one third of that before the infection; other than a few stress-related pathways, the affected pathways after infection constituted a small subset of the Xa21-mediated basal pathways. These results suggested that Xa21 primed critically important genes and signaling pathways, enhancing its resistance against bacterial infection.
Silencing a sugar transporter gene reduces growth and fecundity in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae)
Authors: Ge Lin-Quan , Jiang Yi-Ping , Xia Ting , Song Qi-Sheng , Stanley David , Kuai Peng , Lu Xiu-Li , Yang Guo-Qing , Wu Jin-Cai
Published: July 2015

The brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, sugar transporter gene 6 (Nlst6) is a facilitative glucose/fructose transporter (often called a passive carrier) expressed in midgut that mediates sugar transport from the midgut lumen to hemolymph. The influence of down regulating expression of sugar transporter genes on insect growth, development and fecundity is unknown. Nonetheless, it is reasonable to suspect that transporter-mediated uptake of dietary sugar is essential to the biology of phloem-feeding insects. Based on this reasoning, we posed the hypothesis that silencing, or reducing expression, of a BPH sugar transporter gene would be deleterious to the insects. To test our hypothesis, we examined the effects of Nlst6 knockdown on BPH biology. Reducing expression of Nlst6 led to profound effects on BPHs. It significantly prolonged the pre-oviposition period, shortened the oviposition period, decreased the number of eggs deposited and reduced body weight, compared to controls. Nlst6 knockdown also significantly decreased fat body and ovarian (particularly vitellogenin) protein content as well as vitellogenin gene expression. Experimental BPHs accumulated less fat body glucose compared to controls. We infer that Nlst6 acts in BPH growth and fecundity and has potential as a novel target gene for control of phloem-feeding pest insects.
Simple method for the generation of multiple homogeneous field volumes inside the bore of superconducting magnets
Authors: Chou Ching-Yu , Ferrage Fabien , Aubert Guy , Sakellariou Dimitris
Published: July 2015

Standard Magnetic Resonance magnets produce a single homogeneous field volume, where the analysis is performed. Nonetheless, several modern applications could benefit from the generation of multiple homogeneous field volumes along the axis and inside the bore of the magnet. In this communication, we propose a straightforward method using a combination of ring structures of permanent magnets in order to cancel the gradient of the stray field in a series of distinct volumes. These concepts were demonstrated numerically on an experimentally measured magnetic field profile. We discuss advantages and limitations of our method and present the key steps required for an experimental validation.
Steering light by a sub-wavelength metallic grating from transformation optics
Authors: Xu Yadong , Fu Yangyang , Chen Huanyang
Published: July 2015

Transformation optics has shown great ability in designing devices with novel functionalities, such as invisibility cloaking. A recent work shows that it can also be used to design metasurfaces which usually come from the concept of phase discontinuities. However, metasurfaces from transformation optics have very complicated material parameters. Here in this work, we propose a practical design, a sub-wavelength metallic grating with discrete and gradient index materials. Such a design not only inherits some functionalities of metasurfaces from phase discontinuities, but also shows richer physics. Our work will also provide a guidance to recent activities of acoustic metasurfaces, especially for those made of extremely anisotropic metamaterials.
Improved Oocyte Isolation and Embryonic Development of Outbred Deer Mice
Authors: Choi Jung Kyu , He Xiaoming
Published: July 2015

In this study, we improved the protocol for isolating cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from the outbred deer mice by using only one hormone (instead of the widely used combination of two hormones) with reduced dose. Moreover, we identified that significantly more metaphase II (MII) oocytes could be obtained by supplementing epidermal growth factor (EGF) and leukemia inhibition factor (LIF) into the previously established medium for in vitro maturation (IVM) of the COCs. Furthermore, we overcame the major challenge of two-cell block during embryonic development of deer mice after either in vitro fertilization (IVF) or parthenogenetic activation (PA) of the MII oocytes, by culturing the two-cell stage embryos on the feeder layer of inactivated mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) in the medium of mouse embryonic stem cells. Collectively, this work represents a major step forward in using deer mice as an outbred animal model for biomedical research on reproduction and early embryonic development.