bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the American college of surgeons thyroid and parathyroid ultrasound course: Results of a web‐based survey
Authors: Sharma Giriraj K. , Sofferman Robert A. , Armstrong William B.
Published: September 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

The American College of Surgeons Thyroid and Parathyroid Ultrasound Skills‐Oriented Course (TPUSC) was designed to teach surgeons how to interpret and perform office‐based head and neck ultrasound (HNUS). The objective of this study was to survey attendees of the TPUSC to evaluate the usefulness of the course, to track surgeon performed HNUS practice patterns, and to help identify potential roadblocks to incorporation of HNUS into a surgeon's practice.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A Web‐based survey was sent to 952 surgeons who completed the TPUSC between 2010 and 2014. Questions included surgeon specialty, practice type, Likert scale rating of the TPUSC, competency with different HNUS procedures, and current HNUS practice patterns.

Results

The response rate was 24%. On a scale from 1 (not useful) to 5 (extremely valuable), the mean course usefulness rating was 4.2. Educational goals were met for 194 (92%) surgeons, and 162 (77%) surgeons reported performing HNUS in their practice. Of 48 surgeons not performing HNUS, 24 (50%) attributed insufficient time in their clinic schedule, and 21 (44%) attributed high equipment costs.

Conclusions

The TPUSC is a valuable educational experience for surgeons seeking to gain proficiency in HNUS. The majority of TPUSC graduates gain competency with at least one type of HNUS procedure following the course.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 127:1950–1958, 2017
State‐of‐the‐art all‐silicon sub‐bandgap photodetectors at telecom and datacom wavelengths
Authors: Casalino Maurizio , Coppola Giuseppe , De La Rue Richard M. , Logan Dylan F.
Published: September 2016

Silicon‐based technologies provide an ideal platform for the monolithic integration of photonics and microelectronics. In this context, a variety of passive and active silicon photonic devices have been developed to operate at telecom and datacom wavelengths, at which silicon has minimal optical absorption ‐ due to its bandgap of 1.12 eV. Although in principle this transparency window limits the use of silicon for optical detection at wavelengths above 1.1 μm, in recent years tremendous advances have been made in the field of all‐silicon sub‐bandgap photodetectors at telecom and datacom wavelengths. By taking advantage of emerging materials and novel structures, these devices are becoming competitive with the more well‐established technologies, and are opening new and intriguing perspectives. In this paper, a review of the state‐of‐the‐art is presented. Devices based on defect‐mediated absorption, two‐photon absorption and the internal photoemission effect are reported, their working principles are elucidated and their performance discussed and compared.

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Biomaterial‐Based Approaches to Address Vein Graft and Hemodialysis Access Failures
Authors: Boire Timothy C. , Balikov Daniel A. , Lee Yunki , Guth Christy M. , Cheung‐Flynn Joyce , Sung Hak‐Joon
Published: September 2016

Veins used as grafts in heart bypass or as access points in hemodialysis exhibit high failure rates, thereby causing significant morbidity and mortality for patients. Interventional or revisional surgeries required to correct these failures have been met with limited success and exorbitant costs, particularly for the US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Vein stenosis or occlusion leading to failure is primarily the result of neointimal hyperplasia. Systemic therapies have achieved little long‐term success, indicating the need for more localized, sustained, biomaterial‐based solutions. Numerous studies have demonstrated the ability of external stents to reduce neointimal hyperplasia. However, successful results from animal models have failed to translate to the clinic thus far, and no external stent is currently approved for use in the US to prevent vein graft or hemodialysis access failures. This review discusses current progress in the field, design considerations, and future perspectives for biomaterial‐based external stents. More comparative studies iteratively modulating biomaterial and biomaterial‐drug approaches are critical in addressing mechanistic knowledge gaps associated with external stent application to the arteriovenous environment. Addressing these gaps will ultimately lead to more viable solutions that prevent vein graft and hemodialysis access failures.

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Clinical exome sequencing in early‐onset generalized dystonia and large‐scale resequencing follow‐up
Authors: Zech Michael , Boesch Sylvia , Jochim Angela , Weber Sandrina , Meindl Tobias , Schormair Barbara , Wieland Thomas , Lunetta Christian , Sansone Valeria , Messner Michael , Mueller Joerg , Ceballos‐Baumann Andres , Strom Tim M. , Colombo Roberto , Poewe Werner , Haslinger Bernhard , Winkelmann Juliane
Published: September 2016

Background

Dystonia is clinically and genetically heterogeneous. Despite being a first‐line testing tool for heterogeneous inherited disorders, whole‐exome sequencing has not yet been evaluated in dystonia diagnostics. We set up a pilot study to address the yield of whole‐exome sequencing for early‐onset generalized dystonia, a disease subtype enriched for monogenic causation.

Methods

Clinical whole‐exome sequencing coupled with bioinformatics analysis and detailed phenotyping of mutation carriers was performed on 16 consecutive cases with genetically undefined early‐onset generalized dystonia. Candidate pathogenic variants were validated and tested for cosegregation. The whole‐exome approach was complemented by analyzing 2 mutated yet unestablished causative genes in another 590 dystonia cases.

Results

Whole‐exome sequencing detected clinically relevant mutations of known dystonia‐related genes in 6 generalized dystonia cases (37.5%), among whom 3 had novel variants. Reflecting locus heterogeneity, identified unique variants were distributed over 5 genes (GCH1, THAP1, TOR1A, ANO3, ADCY5), of which only 1 (ANO3) was mutated recurrently. Three genes (GCH1, THAP1, TOR1A) were associated with isolated generalized dystonia, whereas 2 (ANO3, ADCY5) gave rise to combined dystonia‐myoclonus phenotypes. Follow‐up screening of ANO3 and ADCY5 revealed a set of distinct variants of interest, the pathogenicity of which was supported by bioinformatics testing and cosegregation work.

Conclusions

Our study identified whole‐exome sequencing as an effective strategy for molecular diagnosis of early‐onset generalized dystonia and offers insights into the heterogeneous genetic architecture of this condition. Furthermore, it provides confirmatory evidence for a dystonia‐relevant role of ANO3 and ADCY5, both of which likely associate with a broader spectrum of dystonic expressions than previously thought. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Orbital stability of solitary waves of the coupled Klein–Gordon–Zakharov equations
Authors: Zheng Xiaoxiao , Shang Yadong , Peng Xiaoming
Published: September 2016

This paper investigates the orbital stability of solitary waves for the coupled Klein–Gordon–Zakharov (KGZ) equationsurn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4187:mma4187-math-0001whereα ≠ 0. Firstly, we rewrite the coupled KGZ equations to obtain its Hamiltonian form. And then, we present a pair of sech‐type solutions of the coupled KGZ equations. Because the abstract orbital stability theory presented by Grillakis, Shatah, and Strauss (1987) cannot be applied directly, we can extend the abstract stability theory and use the detailed spectral analysis to obtain the stability of the solitary waves for the coupled KGZ equations. In our work,α = 1,β = 0 are advisable. Hence, we can also obtain the orbital stability of solitary waves for the classical KGZ equations which was studied by Chen. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
8‐C‐(E‐phenylethenyl)quercetin from onion/beef soup induces autophagic cell death in colon cancer cells through ERK activation
Authors: Zhao Yueliang , Fan Daming , Zheng Zong‐Ping , Li Edmund T.S. , Chen Feng , Cheng Ka‐Wing , Wang Mingfu
Published: September 2016

Scope

Quercetin, a flavonoid, widely distributed in edible fruits and vegetables, was reported to effectively inhibit 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo[4, 5‐b]pyridine (PhIP) formation in a food model (roast beef patties) with itself being converted into a novel compound 8‐C‐(E‐phenylethenyl)quercetin (8‐CEPQ). Here we investigated whether 8‐CEPQ could be formed in a real food system, and tested its anticancer activity in human colon cancer cell lines.

Methods and results

LC‐MS was applied for the determination of 8‐CEPQ formation in onion/beef soup. Anticancer activity of 8‐CEPQ was evaluated by using cell viability assay and flow cytometry. Results showed that 8‐CEPQ suppressed proliferation and caused G2 phase arrest in colon cancer cells. Based on immunofluorescent staining assay, western blot assay, and RNA knockdown data, we found that 8‐CEPQ did not cause apoptotic cell death. Instead, it induced autophagic cell death. Moreover, treatment with 8‐CEPQ induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK). Inhibition of ERK phosphorylation by the mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/ERK inhibitor U0126 attenuated 8‐CEPQ‐induced autophagy and reversed 8‐CEPQ‐mediated cell growth inhibition.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that 8‐CEPQ, a novel quercetin derivative, could be formed in onion/beef soup. 8‐CEPQ inhibited colon cancer cell growth by inducing autophagic cell death through ERK activation.
Nonivamide, a capsaicin analogue, exhibits anti‐inflammatory properties in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and U‐937 macrophages
Authors: Walker Jessica , Ley Jakob P. , Schwerzler Johanna , Lieder Barbara , Beltran Leopoldo , Ziemba Paul M. , Hatt Hanns , Hans Joachim , Widder Sabine , Krammer Gerhard E. , Somoza Veronika
Published: September 2016

Scope

Inflammation‐related diseases are a worldwide problem. The counteraction of inflammation with compounds activating the trigeminal nerve is one strategy to fight these diseases. Known trigeminally active compounds found in black or red pepper are the tingling t‐pellitorine, the pungent capsaicin, and the less pungent nonivamide. The presented study compares the anti‐inflammatory potential of nonivamide to the two known anti‐inflammatory compounds, elucidating the mechanism of action and the role of transient receptor protein (TRP) channels.

Methods and results

Primary peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and U‐937 macrophages were stimulated with 1 μg/mL LPS from Escherichia coli (EC‐LPS) to induce inflammation. Nonivamide attenuated the EC‐LPS induced release of IL‐6 and TNF‐α in PBMCs and U‐937 macrophages determined by magnetic bead kit analysis. This anti‐inflammatory mechanism was independent from nuclear factor‐kappa B pathway but mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway may be involved. In addition, cotreatment of U‐937 with the trigeminally active compound and an antagonist of TRPV1 or TRPA1 abolished the anti‐inflammatory activity.

Conclusions

Nonivamide possessed similar anti‐inflammatory potential as capsaicin and t‐pellitorine. In U‐937 macrophages, the tested compounds exploited an anti‐inflammatory effect by inhibiting the EC‐LPS induced activation of the MAPK pathway. In addition, the TRP channel activation plays a role in the anti‐inflammatory capacity of capsaicin and nonivamide.
In vitro investigation of intestinal transport mechanism of silicon, supplied as orthosilicic acid‐vanillin complex
Authors: Sergent Thérèse , Croizet Karine , Schneider Yves‐Jacques
Published: September 2016

Scope

Silicon (Si) is one of the most abundant trace elements in the body. Although pharmacokinetics data described its absorption from the diet and its body excretion, the mechanisms involved in the uptake and transport of Si across the gut wall have not been established.

Methods and results

Caco‐2 cells were used as a well‐accepted in vitro model of the human intestinal epithelium to investigate the transport, across the intestinal barrier in both the absorption and excretion directions, of Si supplied as orthosilicic acid stabilized by vanillin complex (OSA–VC). The transport of this species was found proportional to the initial concentration and to the duration of incubation, with absorption and excretion mean rates similar to those of Lucifer yellow, a marker of paracellular diffusion, and increasing in the presence of EGTA, a chelator of divalents cations including calcium. A cellular accumulation of Si, polarized from the apical side of cells, was furthermore detected.

Conclusion

These results provide evidence that Si, ingested as a food supplement containing OSA–VC, crosses the intestinal mucosa by passive diffusion via the paracellular pathway through the intercellular tight junctions and accumulates intracellularly, probably by an uptake mechanism of facilitated diffusion. This study can help to further understand the kinetic of absorption of Si.
Complex mixtures by NMR and complex NMR for mixtures: experimental and publication challenges
Authors: Wist Julien
Published: September 2016

Untargeted strategies have changed the rules of the game in complex mixture analysis, introducing an amazing potential for medical and biological applications that is just starting to be tapped. But with great power come great challenges; although untargeted mixture analysis opens the road for many exciting possibilities, the road is still full of perils. On the one hand, this article highlights some of the difficulties that need to be sorted for mixture analysis by NMR to fulfill its potential, along with insight on how they may be managed. Highlighted key points include the need for ‘computer friendly’ solutions for sharing data, experimental design and algorithm to facilitate the steady growth of knowledge and modeling ability in the field, and the need for large‐scale studies to improve confidence in newly identified biomarkers. On the other hand, the second part of this article presents some breakthroughs in NMR experiments that, when combined, may modify the landscape of mixture analysis. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel Sperm and Gonadotropin‐releasing Hormone‐based Recombinant Fusion Protein: Achievement of 100% Contraceptive Efficacy by Co‐immunization of Male and Female Mice
Authors: Minhas Vidisha , Shrestha Abhinav , Wadhwa Neerja , Singh Rita , Gupta Satish Kumar
Published: September 2016

Improvements in long‐term female contraception can be achieved by vaccinating with sperm‐derived proteins. Here, recombinant proteins comprising either (i) N‐ (amino acid residues 1–80) or C‐ (amino acid residues 76–126) terminal fragments of mouse sperm protein 17 (Sp17) fused to the promiscuous T non‐B cell epitope of tetanus toxoid (TT), amino acid residues 830–844 followed by di‐lysine linker (KK) (TT‐KK‐Sp17N or TT‐KK‐Sp17C, respectively) or (ii) mouse equatorin (amino acid residues 21–185) fused to the T non‐B cell epitope of bovine RNase (amino acid residues 94–104) were expressed in Escherichia coli. Immunization of female FVB/J mice, using alum as an adjuvant, led to the generation of high antibody titers against the above proteins. Antibodies against both N‐ and C‐terminal fragments of Sp17 reacted with the entire capacitated mouse spermatozoa, whereas those against equatorin reacted exclusively with the equatorial region. Despite the reactivity of all immune sera, only sera from mice immunized with TT‐KK‐Sp17N and TT‐KK‐Sp17C significantly reduced mouse in vitro fertilization. Mating studies of the immunized females with un‐immunized male mice revealed the highest infertility in the TT‐KK‐Sp17C‐immunized group. In an attempt to further boost the immune response, the C‐terminal fragment of Sp17 was expressed as fusion protein with a tandem repeat of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) (Sp17C‐GnRH2). Immunization of both male and female mice with Sp17C‐GnRH2 led to higher contraceptive efficacy compared to mice immunized with TT‐KK‐Sp17C. Interestingly, mating studies wherein partners were both immunized with Sp17C‐GnRH2 showed a complete failure of female mice to conceive. Thus, immunization of both males and females with Sp17C‐GnRH2 has the potential to increase contraceptive efficacy. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 1048–1059, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Probabilistic analysis of the specific absorption rate intersubject variability safety factor in parallel transmission MRI
Authors: Le Garrec Morgane , Gras Vincent , Hang Marie‐France , Ferrand Guillaume , Luong Michel , Boulant Nicolas
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Specific absorption rate (SAR) calculations in parallel transmission are commonly performed by using electromagnetic simulations on generic models. In this study, we propose a probabilistic analysis to study the safety factor employed to account for SAR intersubject variability versus risk relationship in head imaging at 7T.

Methods

Thirty‐three finite‐element electromagnetic simulations were conducted to sample the four‐dimensional parameter space consisting of the head length, head breadth, and shifts in Z and Y random variables. Based on the SAR matrices for each configuration, a multivariate second‐order polynomial of the SAR versus the different parameters was reconstructed for different types of radiofrequency pulses. A Monte Carlo calculation was then performed to compute the probability of occurrence of a given SAR value.

Results

By testing a large number of radiofrequency excitation pulses, the SAR calculated for the average model amplified by a safety margin of 1.5 was found to return a probability of less than 1% to be exceeded across the adult Caucasian population given the investigated parameters.

Conclusion

The proposed method to study SAR intersubject variability uses a reasonable number of electromagnetic simulations. Look‐ahead SAR safety margins can be deduced based on risk/benefit ratio assessments. Magn Reson Med 78:1217–1223, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy heralding accelerated chediak‐higashi syndrome
Authors: Faber Ingrid Vasconcellos , Prota Joana Rosa Marques , Martinez Alberto Rolim Muro , Nucci Anamarli , Lopes‐Cendes Iscia , Júnior Marcondes Cavalcante França
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Chediak‐Higashi syndrome (CHS) is a very rare autosomal recessive disorder (gene CHS1/LYST) characterized by partial albinism, recurrent infections, and easy bruising. Survivors develop a constellation of slowly progressive neurological manifestations.

Methods

We describe clinical, laboratory, electrophysiological, and genetic findings of a patient who developed an immune‐mediated demyelinating neuropathy as the main clinical feature of CHS.

Results

The patient presented with subacute flaccid paraparesis, absent reflexes, and reduced vibration sense. Protein and immunoglobulins (Igs) were elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid. Electrodiagnostic tests indicated an acquired chronic demyelinating polyneuropathy. Intravenous Ig and immunosuppressant treatment resulted in neurological improvement. The patient later developed organomegaly and pancytopenia. Bone‐marrow smear revealed giant azurophilic granules pathognomonic for CHS. Two novel mutations in the LYST gene were identified through whole exome sequencing [c.7786C>T and c.9106 + 1G>T].

Conclusions

This case expands the clinical phenotype of CHS and highlights inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy as a manifestation of the disease. Muscle Nerve 55: 756–760, 2017
Can filling phase urodynamic parameters predict the success of the bulbar artificial urinary sphincter in treating post‐prostatectomy incontinence?
Authors: Solomon Eskinder , Veeratterapillay Rajan , Malde Sachin , Harding Christopher , Greenwell Tamsin Jillian
Published: September 2016

Objective

To evaluate whether filling phase urodynamic parameters can predict the success of the artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) in treating post‐prostatectomy incontinence (PPI).

Materials and Methods

We reviewed the pre‐AUS urodynamics of 99 patients with PPI at two tertiary referral centers. We documented the peak DO pressure (Pdet), capacity, and compliance (C). We defined success as patient‐reported continence or only using one safety pad. Patients’ perception of improvement was assessed using the PGI‐I score.

Results

Sixty‐eight percent (n = 68) of patients had a successful outcome. The mean compliance for the “success” and “failure” group was 112.3 mL/cmH2O (±119.7) and 34.1 mL/cmH2O (±36.2), respectively. Fifty‐five percent (17/31) of patients in the “failure” group demonstrated DO(Pdet = 36.2 ± 18.2 cmH2O) compared to 18% (12/68) in the success group. The differences between the two groups in Pdet and compliance were statistically significant (all P < 0.01). There was, however, no statistical difference between the mean cystometric capacities of patients in the two outcome groups. Thirteen out of 18 (72%) patients who had radiotherapy had a poor outcome (“success” group only 15% [9/59]). These results were used to develop a nomogram for the probability of AUS success. A good inverse correlation (r = −0.65) was demonstrated between the probability of AUS success as deduced from the nomogram and PGI‐I score post‐AUS implantation

Conclusion

Compliance and Pdet are predictors of outcome following AUS implantation for PPI. We have developed and internally validated a nomogram that may be used to determine an individualized likelihood of AUS success. This nomogram may be used as a counseling tool to objectively set realistic expectations of continence post‐AUS implantation.
Changes in adiposity in an older Chinese population in rapid economic transition
Authors: Xu Lin , Lam Tai Hing , Jiang Chao Qiang , Zhang Wei Sen , Jin Ya Li , Zhu Tong , Lam Hubert K.B. , Schooling Catherine Mary , Adab Peymane , Thomas G. Neil , Cheng Kar Keung
Published: September 2016

Objective

To examine the changes in body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in Guangzhou, South China, which is probably experiencing the most rapid economic transition in history.

Methods

In this study, 17,786 Chinese aged 50+ years were recruited from 2003 to 2008 and followed up until 2012. BMI and WC were measured at two time points.

Results

During the mean follow‐up of 3.6 years (median = 3, interquartile = 1), age‐adjusted mean BMI increased only slightly. By contrast, mean WC increased sharply by 0.94 cm (95% confidence interval 0.93‐0.94) annually in men and 1.29 cm (1.28‐1.29) annually in women. In 77% of women and 69% of men, WC increased, and among them, the mean annual increase was 2.01 cm and 1.70 cm, respectively. Among healthy, never‐smoking participants, the incidence of central obesity was 29.0% (36.4% in women and 14.2% in men). The incidence of general obesity was 1.9% and was similarly low in both men and women (2.1% vs. 1.8%). Conversely, 20.3% of individuals with general obesity became nonobese, and 12.8% of individuals with central obesity returned to normal.

Conclusions

Central obesity has risen sharply in this cohort. Such increases may have been greatly underestimated previously and should form the basis of an even stronger warning for regions undergoing economic transitions in China and elsewhere.
Acceptance‐based versus standard behavioral treatment for obesity: Results from the mind your health randomized controlled trial
Authors: Forman Evan M. , Butryn Meghan L. , Manasse Stephanie M. , Crosby Ross D. , Goldstein Stephanie P. , Wyckoff Emily P. , Thomas J. Graham
Published: September 2016

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy, as well as potential moderators and mediators, of a revised acceptance‐based behavioral treatment (ABT) for obesity, relative to standard behavioral treatment (SBT).

Methods

Participants with overweight and obesity (n = 190) were randomized to 25 sessions of ABT or SBT over 1 year. Primary outcome (weight), mediator, and moderator measurements were taken at baseline, 6 months, and/or 12 months, and weight was also measured every session.

Results

Participants assigned to ABT attained a significantly greater 12‐month weight loss (13.3% ± 0.83%) than did those assigned to SBT (9.8% ± 0.87%; P = 0.005). A condition by quadratic time effect on session‐by‐session weights (P = 0.01) indicated that SBT had a shallower trajectory of weight loss followed by an upward deflection. ABT participants were also more likely to maintain a 10% weight loss at 12 months (64.0% vs. 48.9%; P = 0.04). No evidence of moderation was found. Results supported the mediating role of autonomous motivation and psychological acceptance of food‐related urges.

Conclusions

Behavioral weight loss outcomes can be improved by integrating self‐regulation skills that are reflected in acceptance‐based treatment, i.e., tolerating discomfort and reduction in pleasure, enacting commitment to valued behavior, and being mindfully aware during moments of decision‐making.
A neonate with a unique non‐Down syndrome transient proliferative megakaryoblastic disease
Authors: Bertrums Eline J. M. , Buijs Arjan , van Grotel Martine , Dors Natasja , de Rooij Jasmijn D. E. , de Haas Valerie , Hopman Sanne , Jongmans Marjolijn C. J. , Zwaan C. M. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M.
Published: September 2016

Transient myeloproliferative disorder (TMD) is a leukemia type that occurs typically in newborns. In Down syndrome, TMD is referred to as transient abnormal myelopoiesis (TAM).32 Recently, transientness has also been reported in acute myeloid leukemia patients with germline trisomy 21 mosaicism, and even in cases with somatic trisomy 21, with or without GATA1 mutations. TMD cases without trisomy 21 are rare, and recurrent genetic aberrations that aid in clinical decision‐making are scarcely described. We describe here a TMD patient without trisomy 21 or GATA1 mutation in whom single‐nucleotide polymorphism analysis of leukemic blasts revealed a novel combined submicroscopic deletion (5q31.1–5q31.3 and 8q23.2q24).
Encapsulation and backsheet adhesion metrology for photovoltaic modules
Authors: Tracy Jared , Bosco Nick , Novoa Fernando , Dauskardt Reinhold
Published: September 2016

Photovoltaic modules are designed to operate for decades in terrestrial environments. However, mechanical stress, moisture, and ultraviolet radiation eventually degrade protective materials in modules, particularly their adhesion properties, eventually leading to reduced solar cell performance. Despite the significance of interfacial adhesion to module durability, currently there is no reliable technique for characterizing module adhesion properties. We present a simple and reproducible metrology for characterizing adhesion in photovoltaic modules that is grounded in fundamental concepts of beam and fracture mechanics. Using width‐tapered cantilever beam fracture specimens, interfacial adhesion was evaluated on relevant interfaces of encapsulation and backsheet structures of new and 27‐year‐old historic modules. The adhesion energy, Gc [J/m2], was calculated from the critical value of the strain energy release rate, G, using G = βP2, where β (a mechanical and geometric parameter of the fracture specimen) and P (the experimentally measured critical load) are constants. Under some circumstances where testing may result in cracking of brittle layers in the test specimen, measurement of the delamination length in addition to the critical load was necessary to determine G. Relative to new module materials, backsheet adhesion was 95% and 98% lower for historic modules that were exposed (operated in the field) and unexposed (stored on‐site, but out of direct sunlight), respectively. Encapsulation adhesion was 87–94% lower in the exposed modules and 31% lower in the unexposed module. The metrology presented here can be used to improve module materials and assess long‐term reliability. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of reduction sensitive comb‐like polyurethanes using click chemistry
Authors: Begines Belén , de‐Paz M.‐Violante , Alcudia Ana , Galbis Juan A.
Published: September 2016

The synthesis and characterization of new highly biodegradable multipropargyl and comb‐like copolyurethanes have been successfully achieved by the combination of step‐growth polymerization and click chemistry. This work discloses a simple, accurate, and straightforward method to generate brush polymers with an excellent control of the branch nature, distribution, and density in the final materials. The introduction of controlled branching has led to a great variety of polymers, whose hydrophilic/lipophilic characters were adjusted as required. Furthermore, their stiffness, semicrystalline nature, and degradability were fine‐tuned by appropriate selection of the monomers and their feed ratios. The presence of propargyl functional groups in the (co)polymers was confirmed by the presence of a thermal degradation step in the range from 450 °C to 455 °C. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3888–3900
Propellants Reactivity Enhancement with Nanothermites
Authors: Berthe Jean‐Edouard , Comet Marc , Schnell Fabien , Suma Yves , Spitzer Denis
Published: September 2016

Propellant grains (Vectan A1) were coated with a thin and stable layer (50 μm, 10 wt‐%) of a “green” sulfate‐based nanothermite (Na2SO4/Al). This flash composition was used herein as an internal pyrotechnic lighter to accelerate the ignition and the combustion of the propellant. The combustion of the modified propellant, which was tested in one‐end open tubes, propagates four orders of magnitude faster than the one of pristine Vectan A1. This tremendous effect was tuned by varying the proportion of coated Vectan A1 grains from 20 to 100 % in the samples. The percolation threshold is in between 20 and 40 %. Beyond this point, the effect can be improved by increasing the proportion of nanothermite‐coated propellant grains in the charge.
A guide to the 3D structure of the ryanodine receptor type 1 by cryoEM
Authors: Samsó Montserrat
Published: September 2016

Signal transduction by the ryanodine receptor (RyR) is essential in many excitable cells including all striated contractile cells and some types of neurons. While its transmembrane domain is a classic tetrameric, six‐transmembrane cation channel, the cytoplasmic domain is uniquely large and complex, hosting a multiplicity of specialized domains. The overall outline and substructure readily recognizable by electron microscopy make RyR a geometrically well‐behaved specimen. Hence, for the last two decades, the 3D structural study of the RyR has tracked closely the technological advances in electron microscopy, cryo‐electron microscopy (cryoEM), and computerized 3D reconstruction. This review summarizes the progress in the structural determination of RyR by cryoEM and, bearing in mind the leap in resolution provided by the recent implementation of direct electron detection, analyzes the first near‐atomic structures of RyR. These reveal a complex orchestration of domains controlling the channel's function, and help to understand how this could break down as a consequence of disease‐causing mutations.
While the revolution will not be crystallized, biochemistry reigns supreme
Authors: Takizawa Yoshimasa , Binshtein Elad , Erwin Amanda L. , Pyburn Tasia M. , Mittendorf Kathleen F. , Ohi Melanie D.
Published: September 2016

Single‐particle cryo‐electron microscopy (EM) is currently gaining attention for the ability to calculate structures that reach sub‐5 Å resolutions; however, the technique is more than just an alternative approach to X‐ray crystallography. Molecular machines work via dynamic conformational changes, making structural flexibility the hallmark of function. While the dynamic regions in molecules are essential, they are also the most challenging to structurally characterize. Single‐particle EM has the distinct advantage of being able to directly visualize purified molecules without the formation of ordered arrays of molecules locked into identical conformations. Additionally, structures determined using single‐particle EM can span resolution ranges from very low‐ to atomic‐levels (>30–1.8 Å), sometimes even in the same structure. The ability to accommodate various resolutions gives single‐particle EM the unique capacity to structurally characterize dynamic regions of biological molecules, thereby contributing essential structural information needed for the development of molecular models that explain function. Further, many important molecular machines are intrinsically dynamic and compositionally heterogeneous. Structures of these complexes may never reach sub‐5 Å resolutions due to this flexibility required for function. Thus, the biochemical quality of the sample, as well as, the calculation and interpretation of low‐ to mid‐resolution cryo‐EM structures (30–8 Å) remains critical for generating insights into the architecture of many challenging biological samples that cannot be visualized using alternative techniques.
The tune of love and the nature(ness) of spacetime
Authors: Porto Rafael A.
Published: September 2016

The black hole information paradox is among the most outstanding puzzles in physics. I argue here there is yet another black hole quandary which, in light of the recent direct detection of gravitational waves by Advanced LIGO, reveals a new window to probe the nature of spacetime in the forthcoming era of ‘precision gravity.'
Fibromyalgia syndrome: metabolic and autophagic processes in intermittent cold stress mice
Authors: Oezel Lisa , Then Hanna , Jung Anna L. , Jabari Samir , Bonaterra Gabriel A. , Wissniowski Thaddeus T. , Önel Susanne F. , Ocker Matthias , Thieme Kati , Kinscherf Ralf , Di Fazio Pietro
Published: September 2016

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and depression. The aim was to analyze potential mitochondrial dysfunction or autophagy in mice after exposure to intermittent cold stress (ICS). Muscle and liver specimens were obtained from 36 mice. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was measured. Microtubule‐associated protein light chain 3 (MAP1LC3B) and glycogen content were determined histologically; muscle ultrastructure by electron microscopy. Mitochondrial‐ and autophagy‐related markers were analyzed by RT‐qPCR and Western blotting. ATP level, cytotoxicity, and caspase 3 activity were measured in murine C2C12 myoblasts after ICS exposure. Coenzyme Q10B (COQ10B) transcript was up‐regulated in limb muscle of ICS mice, whereas its protein content was stable. Cytochrome C oxidase 4 (COX4I1) and LDH activity increased in limb muscle of male ICS mice. Glycogen content was lower in muscle and liver tissue of male ICS mice. Electron micrographs of ICS mice specimens showed mitochondrial damage and autophagic vesicles. A significant up‐regulation of autophagic transcripts of MAP1LC3B and BECLIN 1 (BECN1) was observed. Map1lc3b protein showed an aggregated distribution in ICS mice and SqSTM1/p62 (p62) protein level was stable. Furthermore, ATP level and caspase activity, detected as apoptotic marker, were significantly lowered after ICS exposure in differentiated C2C12 myoblasts. The present study shows that ICS mice are characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagic processes, and metabolic alterations. Further investigations could dissect autophagy process in the proposed model and link these mechanisms to potential therapeutic options for fibromyalgia.
Inhibitory Effects of Multiple‐Dose Treatment with Baicalein on the Pharmacokinetics of Ciprofloxacin in Rats
Authors: Hwang Youn‐Hwan , Yang Hye Jin , Kim Dong‐Gun , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: September 2016

Ciprofloxacin is used as a treatment for urinary and respiratory tract infections in clinical practice. Baicalein, a major flavonoid present in Scutellaria baicalensis, is a well‐known and potent antibacterial compound used in complementary and alternative medicine practices. The present study aimed to clarify the effects of multiple‐dose treatment with baicalein on the pharmacokinetics of ciprofloxacin in rats. Following the oral administration of baicalein (20, 40, or 80 mg/kg) for five consecutive days, the rats received an oral administration of ciprofloxacin (20 mg/kg). Blood samples were collected at specific time points, and the plasma concentrations of ciprofloxacin were determined by using high‐performance liquid chromatography. To evaluate the mechanisms underlying the interaction between baicalein and ciprofloxacin, a rhodamine 123 accumulation assay was performed in LS‐180 cells. A pharmacokinetic study revealed that multiple‐dose treatment with baicalein significantly decreased the peak serum concentration (Cmax), area under the curve (AUC0 → 480 min), and relative bioavailability (Frel) of ciprofloxacin (p < 0.05). The rhodamine 123 accumulation assay revealed that treatment with baicalein for 48 h markedly reduced the intracellular accumulation of rhodamine 123. Taken together, these findings suggest that baicalein may result in the therapeutic failure of ciprofloxacin or other quinolone‐based antibiotics used for chemotherapy in clinical practice. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient Technique for Assessing Actual Non‐normal Quality Loss: Markov Chain Monte Carlo
Authors: Liao Mou‐Yuan
Published: September 2016

Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) techniques have been extensively developed and are accepted for solving various real‐world problems. However, process capabilities are rarely analyzed with the means of MCMC. This study integrates the MCMC technique into Bayesian models for assessing the well‐known quality loss index Cpm for gamma and Weibull process distributions. After the MCMC iterations are completed, the quality manager can make reliable decisions via the proposed credible intervals. Furthermore, this study provides performance comparisons of the estimators of Cpm obtained by the MCMC and bootstrap techniques. Simulations show that the MCMC technique performs better than the bootstrap technique in most of the cases that were considered. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Automated system measuring triple oxygen and nitrogen isotope ratios in nitrate using the bacterial method and N2O decomposition by microwave discharge
Authors: Hattori Shohei , Savarino Joel , Kamezaki Kazuki , Ishino Sakiko , Dyckmans Jens , Fujinawa Tamaki , Caillon Nicolas , Barbero Albane , Mukotaka Arata , Toyoda Sakae , Well Reinhard , Yoshida Naohiro
Published: September 2016

Rationale

Triple oxygen and nitrogen isotope ratios in nitrate are powerful tools for assessing atmospheric nitrate formation pathways and their contribution to ecosystems. N2O decomposition using microwave‐induced plasma (MIP) has been used only for measurements of oxygen isotopes to date, but it is also possible to measure nitrogen isotopes during the same analytical run.

Methods

The main improvements to a previous system are (i) an automated distribution system of nitrate to the bacterial medium, (ii) N2O separation by gas chromatography before N2O decomposition using the MIP, (iii) use of a corundum tube for microwave discharge, and (iv) development of an automated system for isotopic measurements. Three nitrate standards with sample sizes of 60, 80, 100, and 120 nmol were measured to investigate the sample size dependence of the isotope measurements.

Results

The δ17O, δ18O, and Δ17O values increased with increasing sample size, although the δ15N value showed no significant size dependency. Different calibration slopes and intercepts were obtained with different sample amounts. The slopes and intercepts for the regression lines in different sample amounts were dependent on sample size, indicating that the extent of oxygen exchange is also dependent on sample size. The sample‐size‐dependent slopes and intercepts were fitted using natural log (ln) regression curves, and the slopes and intercepts can be estimated to apply to any sample size corrections. When using 100 nmol samples, the standard deviations of residuals from the regression lines for this system were 0.5‰, 0.3‰, and 0.1‰, respectively, for the δ18O, Δ17O, and δ15N values, results that are not inferior to those from other systems using gold tube or gold wire.

Conclusions

An automated system was developed to measure triple oxygen and nitrogen isotopes in nitrate using N2O decomposition by MIP. This system enables us to measure both triple oxygen and nitrogen isotopes in nitrate with comparable precision and sample throughput (23 min per sample on average), and minimal manual treatment. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SmartSIM ‐ a virtual reality simulator for laparoscopy training using a generic physics engine
Authors: Khan Zohaib Amjad , Kamal Nabeel , Hameed Asad , Mahmood Amama , Zainab Rida , Sadia Bushra , Mansoor Shamyl Bin , Hasan Osman
Published: September 2016

Virtual reality (VR) training simulators have started playing a vital role in enhancing surgical skills, such as hand–eye coordination in laparoscopy, and practicing surgical scenarios that cannot be easily created using physical models. We describe a new VR simulator for basic training in laparoscopy, i.e. SmartSIM, which has been developed using a generic open‐source physics engine called the simulation open framework architecture (SOFA). This paper describes the systems perspective of SmartSIM including design details of both hardware and software components, while highlighting the critical design decisions. Some of the distinguishing features of SmartSIM include: (i) an easy‐to‐fabricate custom‐built hardware interface; (ii) use of a generic physics engine to facilitate wider accessibility of our work and flexibility in terms of using various graphical modelling algorithms and their implementations; and (iii) an intelligent and smart evaluation mechanism that facilitates unsupervised and independent learning.
A prognostic model for predicting urinary incontinence after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy
Authors: Honda Masashi , Kawamoto Bunya , Morizane Shuichi , Hikita Katsuya , Muraoka Kuniyasu , Sejima Takehiro , Takenaka Atsushi
Published: September 2016

Background

The aim of this study is to develop a novel prognostic model for estimating the risk of postoperative urinary incontinence (UI) after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Methods

Participants comprised 131 men who underwent RARP at our hospital from 2011 to 2013. Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate associations between UI and preoperative factors including filling cystometry and pressure‐flow study results and magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

Logistic regression analyses revealed significant associations between membranous urethral length or levator thickness and UI at 3 and 6 months. Stratification produced high (membranous urethral length < 9.5 mm or levator thickness < 9.0 mm) and low (membranous urethral length ≥ 9.5 mm and levator thickness ≥ 9.0 mm) UI risk groups. These inter‐group differences in UI rate were significant.

Conclusions

We developed a novel prognostic model based on preoperative patient data that can be used for patient counselling.
Finding Hamilton cycles in random graphs with few queries
Authors: Ferber Asaf , Krivelevich Michael , Sudakov Benny , Vieira Pedro
Published: September 2016

We introduce a new setting of algorithmic problems in random graphs, studying the minimum number of queries one needs to ask about the adjacency between pairs of vertices of in order to typically find a subgraph possessing a given target property. We show that if , then one can find a Hamilton cycle with high probability after exposing edges. Our result is tight in both p and the number of exposed edges. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 49, 635–668, 2016
Gallic Acid Derived Palladium(0) Nanoparticles: An In Situ Formed “Green and Recyclable” Catalyst for Suzuki‐Miyaura Coupling in Water
Authors: Mondal Manoj , Begum Tahshina , Gogoi Pradip K. , Bora Utpal
Published: September 2016

Herein, we report a facile methodology for the Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling in water. The method involved use of gallic acid (a natural and abundant phytochemical) reduced palladium(0) nanoparticles (PdNPs) formed in situ. The catalyst acts efficiently at low loading with short reaction time, further can be reused effectively till four recycles. Importantly, a wide range of functional groups were found to be compatible with the given reaction conditions. The use of gallic acid influenced both rate of the catalytic reaction and size distribution of the PdNPs. The size, morphology and distribution of the in situ‐formed nanoparticles were determined by UV‐Vis, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis, which showed a uniform gallic acid coated aggregation of palladium particles. Since gallic acid is a non‐toxic phytochemical, the present method highlights an efficient alternative for the utilization of natural feedstock.
A Greener Approach towards Making Highly Luminescent Ln3+‐Doped NaYF4 Nanoparticles with Ligand‐Assisted Phase Control
Authors: Sarkar Debashrita , Meesaragandla Brahmaiah , Samanta Tuhin , Mahalingam Venkataramanan
Published: September 2016

Lanthanide (Ln3+)‐doped NaYF4 nanoparticles (NPs) are generally prepared using high temperature methods which generally restricts the choice of capping ligands as well as lead to the release of toxic fluorinated and oxyfluorinated carbon species during synthesis. In this work, we report the synthesis of highly crystalline Ln3+‐doped NaYF4 nanoparticles (NPs) at room temperature using a wide variety of ligands. Interestingly, the phase of the NPs could be controlled using suitable capping ligands. Formation of pure cubic phase NaYF4 NPs is achieved using dicarboxylic acid as capping ligands, whereas diamine ligands promote formation of hexagonal phase NPs. Time‐dependent XRD analysis clearly indicates the phase evolution of the nanocrystals. Both cubic and hexagonal phase NaYF4 NPs exhibit intense Stokes‐shifted emission when doped with Eu3+ ions. Whereas doping Yb3+/Er3+ ions led to strong luminescence in the visible region via the upconversion process. In addition, the Yb3+/Er3+‐doped NaYF4 nanocrystals display strong emission in the optical telecommunication window (∼1550 nm) which are generally difficult to observe in colloidal nanocrystals. We believe that with appropriate selection of capping ligands NPs with good morphology and size can be achieved. In addition to the greener approach of the synthesis route which is important for energy minimization, we strongly believe that the synthetic strategy might pave way to the fundamental understanding of the growth of NPs.
Suzuki‐Miyaura cross–coupling reaction in water: facile synthesis of (hetero) aryl uracil bases using potassiumorganotrifluoroborates under microwave irradiation.
Authors: Savitha Bhaskaran , Sajith Ayyiliath M. , Reddy Eeda Koti , Kumar C. S. Ananda , Padusha M. Syed Ali
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we report the use of (hetero) aryl potassiumorganotrifluoroborate salts as versatile nucleophilic organoboron reagents in the Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction of an electron rich 6‐chloro 3‐methyl uracil in water under microwave irradiation. A comparative study of the cross‐coupling reaction of this chloro uracil analogue with different nucleophilic organoboron source revealed the superior reactivity of (hetero) aryl potassiumorganotrifluoroborates in water under microwave irradiation. Diversely functionalised (hetero) aryl uracil bases, which are known possess a wide range of applications in chemical biology, were efficiently synthesized using this optimised protocol.