bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic control of asymmetric electromagnetic wave transmission by active chiral metamaterial
Authors: Chen Ke , Feng Yijun , Cui Li , Zhao Junming , Jiang Tian , Zhu Bo
Published: February 2017

The asymmetric transmission of electromagnetic (EM) wave can be fully manipulated by chiral metamaterials, but little can achieve real-time and high efficient tunability due to challenges in practically deployable solutions. Here, we proposed a new scheme for flexibly and dynamically controlling the asymmetric EM wave transmission at microwave frequencies using planar metamaterial of deep subwavelength thickness incorporated with active components of PIN diodes. The asymmetric transmission of linearly polarized EM wave exhibits a high efficiency and a pronounced real-time continuous tunability controlled by the external stimulation of voltage biasing. In addition, the asymmetric transmission effect can be well preserved at large oblique incident angle up to ±70°. The design principle and EM performance are validated by both full wave simulations and experimental measurements. Such dynamically controllable chiral metamaterial may provide robust and flexible approach to manipulate EM wave propagation, as well as to facilitate EM device integration to create diverse functionalities.
Prognostic Value of microRNA Signature in Patients with Gastric Cancers
Authors: Liu Hai-Ting , Wang Ya-Wen , Xing Ai-Yan , Shi Duan-Bo , Zhang Hui- , Guo Xiang-Yu , Xu Jing- , Gao Peng
Published: February 2017

The occurrence of lymph node metastases (LNM) after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in patients with gastric cancer (GC) leads to poor prognosis. However, few biomarkers are available to predict LNM in GC patients. Thus, we measured expression of 6 cancer-related miRNAs using real-time RT-PCR in 102 GC samples that were randomized into a training set and a testing set (each, 51 cases). Using logistic regression, we identified 4-miRNA (miR-27b, miR-128, miR-100 and miR-214) signatures for predicting LNM in GC patients. Patients with high-risk scores for the 4-miRNA signature tended to have higher LNM than those with low-risk scores. Meanwhile, the ROC curve of the 4-miRNA signature was better for predicting LNM in GC patients. In addition, Cox regression analysis indicated that a 2-miRNA signature (miR-27b and miR-214) or a miR-214/N stage signature was predictive of survival for GC patients. This work describes a previously unrecognized 4-miRNA signature involved in LNM and a 2-miRNA signature or miR-214/N stage signature related to GC patients’ survival.
Does Zika virus infection affect mosquito response to repellents?
Authors: Leal Walter S. , Barbosa Rosângela M. R. , Zeng Fangfang , Faierstein Gabriel B. , Tan Kaiming , Paiva Marcelo H. S. , Guedes Duschinka R. D. , Crespo Mônica M. , Ayres Constância F. J.
Published: February 2017

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that people travelling to or living in areas with Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreaks or epidemics adopt prophylactic measures to reduce or eliminate mosquito bites, including the use of insect repellents. It is, however, unknown whether repellents are effective against ZIKV-infected mosquitoes, in part because of the ethical concerns related to exposing a human subject’s arm to infected mosquitoes in the standard arm-in-cage assay. We used a previously developed, human subject-free behavioural assay, which mimics a human subject to evaluate the top two recommended insect repellents. Our measurements showed that DEET provided significantly higher protection than picaridin provided against noninfected, host-seeking females of the southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, and the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. When tested at lower doses, we observed a significant reduction in DEET-elicited protection against ZIKV-infected yellow fever mosquitoes from old and recent laboratory colonies. The reduction in protection is more likely associated with aging than the virus infection and could be compensated by applying a 5x higher dose of DEET. A substantial protection against ZIKV-infected and old noninfected mosquitoes was achieved with 5% DEET, which corresponds approximately to a 30% dose in the conventional arm-in-cage assays.
Construction of a Cerebral Hemorrhage Test System Operated in Real-time
Authors: Li Gen , Sun Jian , Ma Ke , Yan Qingguang , Zheng Xiaolin , Qin Mingxin , Jin Gui , Ning Xu , Zhuang Wei , Feng Hua , Huang Shiyuwei
Published: February 2017

The real-time monitoring and evaluation of the severity and progression of cerebral hemorrhage is essential to its intensive care and its successful emergency treatment. Based on magnetic induction phase shift technology combined with a PCI data acquisition system and LabVIEW software, this study established a real-time monitoring system for cerebral hemorrhage. To test and evaluate the performance of the system, the authors performed resolution conductivity experiments, salted water simulation experiments and cerebral hemorrhage experiments in rabbits and found that when the conductivity difference was 0.73 S/m, the phase difference was 13.196°. The phase difference change value was positively proportional to the volume of saline water, and the conductivity value was positively related to the phase difference of liquid under the same volume conditions. After injecting 3 mL blood into six rabbits, the average change in the blood phase difference was −2.03783 ± 0.22505°, and it was positively proportional to the volume of blood, which was consistent with the theoretical results. The results show that the system can monitor the progressive development of cerebral hemorrhage in real-time and has the advantages of low cost, small size, high phase accuracy, and good clinical application potentiality.
Metal dimer sites in ZSM-5 zeolite for methane-to-methanol conversion from first-principles kinetic modelling: is the [Cu–O–Cu]2+motif relevant for Ni, Co, Fe, Ag, and Au?
Authors: Arvidsson Adam A. , Zhdanov Vladimir P. , Carlsson Per-Anders , Grönbeck Henrik , Hellman Anders
Published: February 2017

Reaction energy landscapes for the direct conversion of methane to methanol over ZSM-5 for Cu, Ni, Co and Fe dimer sites.
Design, synthesis and cytotoxic activity of water-soluble quinones with dibromo-p-benzoquinone cores and amino oligo(ethylene glycol) side chains against MCF-7 breast cancer cells
Authors: Scherz Leon F. , Abdel-Rahman Engy A. , Ali Sameh S. , Schlüter A. Dieter , Abdel-Rahman Mona A.
Published: February 2017

Novel water-soluble dibromo-p-benzoquinones were synthesized and their in vitro cytotoxicity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells and human fibroblast cells was evaluated.
High-bandwidth nanopore data analysis by using a modified hidden Markov model
Authors: Zhang Jianhua , Liu Xiuling , Ying Yi-Lun , Gu Zhen , Meng Fu-Na , Long Yi-Tao
Published: February 2017

A modified HMM is developed to analyze the unfiltered nanopore experimental data at the highest bandwidth of commercial instruments.
Synthesis of yellow mesoporous Ni-doped TiO2 with enhanced photoelectrochemical performance under visible light
Authors: Gao Bin , Wang Tao , Fan Xiaoli , Gong Hao , Guo Hu , Xia Wei , Feng Yaya , Huang Xianli , He Jianping
Published: February 2017

Ordered mesoporous Ni-doped TiO2 were synthesized by a multicomponent self-assembly process.
Side-chain engineering of perylenediimide-vinylene polymer acceptors for high-performance all-polymer solar cells
Authors: Guo Yikun , Li Yunke , Awartani Omar , Han Han , Zhang Guangye , Ade Harald , Yan He , Zhao Dahui
Published: February 2017

The performance of a PDI-vinylene polymer acceptor in an all-PSC is optimized by side-chain engineering. The best average PCE of 7.40% is obtained with a medium side-chain length.
Aptamer functionalized silver clusters for STED microscopy
Authors: Wang Lan , Ta Haisen , Ullal Chaitanya , Wang Fu , Wang Chuanyi , Dong Guohui
Published: February 2017

Novel STED probe was prepared through aptamer functionalized silver clusters, which preserve specific affinity with smaller size and more photostability.
Synthesis and characterization of a poly(o-anisidine)–SiC composite and its application for corrosion protection of steel
Authors: Hu Chuanbo , Li Ying , Zhang Ning , Ding Yushi
Published: February 2017

Herein, a poly(o-anisidine) (POA)–SiC composite epoxy coating was synthesized which demonstrates excellent corrosion protection of steel surfaces.
Selection, identification and application of DNA aptamers for the detection of Bifidobacterium breve
Authors: Hu Lujun , Wang Linlin , Lu Wenwei , Zhai Qixiao , Fan Daming , Liu Xiaoming , Zhao Jianxin , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei
Published: February 2017

In the present study, a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) aptamer binding toBifidobacterium brevewith high avidity and selectivity was selected through a whole-bacterium-based SELEX process.
Enhanced phase and amplitude image contrasts of polymers in bimodal atomic force microscopy
Authors: Shi Shuai , Guo Dan , Luo Jianbin
Published: February 2017

Higher second free amplitudes beyond the commonly used values show remarkable phase and amplitude contrasts.
Self-assembling characteristics of amphiphilic zwitterionic brush random copolymers at the air–water interface
Authors: Kim Jonghyun , Kim Jin Chul , Phan Minh Dinh , Kim Heesoo , Shin Kwanwoo , Ree Moonhor
Published: February 2017

Amphiphilic zwitterionic brush random copolymers bearing sulfobetaine groups at the bristle ends underwent segregation at the air–water interface, always forming only the Langmuir monolayer structure rather than any other structures.
Tunable electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness via multilayer assembly of regenerated cellulose as a supporting substrate and carbon nanotubes/polymer as a functional layer
Authors: Zhang Liang-Qing , Yang Biao , Teng Jian , Lei Jun , Yan Ding-Xiang , Zhong Gan-Ji , Li Zhong-Ming
Published: February 2017

Simultaneous improvement of electromagnetic interference shielding and mechanical properties of a multilayer-structured CNT/regenerated cellulose composite.
Dye-sensitized solar cells using cobalt electrolytes: the influence of porosity and pore size to achieve high-efficiency
Authors: Yella Aswani , Mathew Simon , Aghazada Sadig , Comte Pascal , Grätzel Michael , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: February 2017

Diffusion impediments of redox shuttles are major limitations in realizing high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) in dye sensitized solar cells (DSCs) using cobalt complexes.
Synthesis of homoazafullerene [C59N(CH2)]R and azahomoazafullerene [C59N(NH)]R
Authors: Xu Dan , Li Yanbang , Lou Ning , Gan Liangbing
Published: February 2017

The selective insertion of a CH2 or NH group is achieved through the PCl5 induced reaction of a CH2OH or NHOH group, respectively.
Highly efficient electrochemical recognition and quantification of amine enantiomers based on a guest-free homochiral MOF
Authors: Kuang Rui , Zheng Luyi , Chi Yanhui , Shi Jingmin , Chen Xuexue , Zhang Chengcheng
Published: February 2017

A novel homochiral MOF was facilely synthesized, its nanocrystals exhibit rapid discrimination of α-methylbenzylamine enantiomers and quantitative determination of enantiomeric excess.
The effect of oil type on network formation by protein aggregates into oleogels
Authors: de Vries Auke , Gomez Yuly Lopez , van der Linden Erik , Scholten Elke
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of oil type on the network formation of heat-set protein aggregates in liquid oil.
Crown ether complexes of potassium quinolin-8-olates: synthesis, characterization and catalysis toward the ring-opening polymerization of rac-lactide
Authors: Wu Bing-Bing , Wang Zhong-Xia
Published: February 2017

Crown ether complexes of potassium quinolin-8-olates were synthesized and demonstrated to catalyze the stereoselective polymerization of rac-lactide.
Supramolecular anion recognition in water: synthesis of hydrogen-bonded supramolecular frameworks
Authors: Morshedi Mahbod , Thomas Michael , Tarzia Andrew , Doonan Christian J. , White Nicholas G.
Published: February 2017

Charge-assisted hydrogen bonds between a tetratopic receptor and terephthalate anions assemble a switchable supramolecular framework material in water.
Enhanced energy density of polymer nanocomposites at a low electric field through aligned BaTiO3 nanowires
Authors: Xie Bing , Zhang Haibo , Zhang Qi , Zang Jiadong , Yang Chao , Wang Qingping , Li Ming-Yu , Jiang Shenglin
Published: February 2017

Significantly enhanced energy density is obtained at a low electric field by embedding aligned BaTiO3 nanowires in a polymer matrix via a new physical-assisted casting method.
Dicyano- and tetracyanopentacene: foundation of an intriguing new class of easy-to-synthesize organic semiconductors
Authors: Glöcklhofer Florian , Petritz Andreas , Karner Esther , Bojdys Michael J. , Stadlober Barbara , Fröhlich Johannes , Unterlass Miriam M.
Published: February 2017

Extraordinarily low LUMO levels, dense molecular packing, an intriguing packing motif, reversible bleaching and OTFT operability under ambient conditions are revealed in a detailed investigation of multi-cyanated pentacenes.
Size-dependent downconversion near-infrared emission of NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+ nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Xu , Zhu Yongsheng , Zhou Donglei , Xu Wen , Zhu Jinyang , Pan Gencai , Yin Ze , Wang He , Cui Shaobo , Song Hongwei
Published: February 2017

The size-dependent downconversion near-infrared emission and emission mechanism of NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+ nanoparticles are revealed.
Kosten gesundheitlicher Versorgung contergangeschädigter Menschen – eine aktuelle Neubewertung
Authors: Lüngen Markus , Albus Christian , Niecke Alexander , Samel Christina , Pfaff Holger , Peters Klaus
Published: February 2017

Hintergrund Folgekosten von unerwünschten Arzneimittelwirkungen werden meist mit kurzem Zeithorizont betrachtet. Im Fall der
Auswirkungen von Thalidomid (Contergan, reg.) kann geprüft werden, welches Ausmaß und welche Struktur Folgekosten auch 50 Jahre nach einem
Ereignis haben können.

Methode Erhoben wurden Daten von conterganbetroffenen Menschen in Nordrhein-Westfalen. In einer schriftlichen Befragung wurden Daten
zu Arbeitsfähigkeit und privaten Ausgaben erhoben. Ergänzend erfolgte eine Auswertung von Abrechnungsdaten der Krankenkassen, wobei eine
Gruppe „Extremitätenfehlbildungen“ mit einer altersgleichen Vergleichsgruppe eingesetzt wurde. Ausgewertet wurden Daten zur Inanspruchnahme
sowie zu Kosten aus Sicht der Gesetzlichen Krankenversicherung.

Ergebnisse In die Befragung eingeschlossen wurden 202 conterganbetroffene Menschen. Es zeigten sich erhebliche und individuell stark
schwankende persönliche Ausgaben, die häufig außerhalb einer Übernahme durch die Sozialversicherungen lagen. Auch wenn die Fehlzeiten eher
hoch liegen, hat die vorzeitige Beendigung der Erwerbstätigkeit ein vergleichsweise geringes Ausmaß. Insgesamt liegen die Kosten aus Sicht
der Krankversicherung bei Menschen mit Extremitätenfehlbildungen um 29 % höher als für eine altersgleiche Vergleichsgruppe (3038 Euro versus
2045 Euro pro Jahr).

Diskussion Unerwünschte Wirkungen von Arzneimitteln können nicht nur kurzfristig im Gesundheitswesen, sondern auch langfristig in der
Gesellschaft erhebliche Kosten verursachen. Die Contergankatastrophe ist dafür ein tragisches Beispiel. Neben der reinen Kostenbetrachtung
müssen auch mangelnder Zugang zu effektiven Therapien zur Abmilderungen der Folgen von unerwünschten Arzneimittelereignissen und der Verlust
des Vertrauens in die Gesundheitsversorgung thematisiert werden.
The dissociative chemisorption of CO2 on Ni(100): A quantum dynamics study
Authors: Farjamnia Azar , Jackson Bret
Published: February 2017

A quantum approach based on an expansion in vibrationally adiabatic eigenstates is used to explore the dissociative chemisorption of CO2 on Ni(100). The largest barrier to reaction corresponds to the formation of a bent anionic molecular precursor, bound to the surface by about 0.24 eV. The barrier to dissociation from this state is small. Our computed dissociative sticking probabilities on Ni(100) for molecules in the ground state are in very good agreement with available experimental data, reasonably reproducing the variation in reactivity with collision energy. Vibrational excitation of the incident CO2 can enhance reactivity, particularly for incident energies at or below threshold, and there is clear mode specific behavior. Both the vibrational enhancement and the increase in dissociative sticking with surface temperature are much weaker than that found in recent studies of methane and water dissociative chemisorption. The energetics for CO2 adsorption and dissociation on the stepped Ni(711) surface are found to be similar to that on Ni(100), except that the barrier to dissociation from the anionic precursor is even smaller on Ni(711). We predict that the dissociative sticking behavior is similar on the two surfaces.
Effects of fuel properties on combustion and emissions of a direct injection diesel engine fueled with n-butanol-diesel blends
Authors: Yang Miao , Wang Zhiwei , Guo Shuman , Xin Xiaofei , Qi Tian , Lei Tingzhou , Yan Xiaoyu
Published: February 2017

In this paper, the influence of the addition of n-butanol on fuel properties, combustion, and emission characteristics for a diesel engine was studied. Kinematic viscosity, lower heating value, closed-cup flash point, density, cetane number, and distillation were measured. The engine performance and emissions were also tested at nine loads of 1200 rpm. On this basis, numerical models of the diesel at 100% load for five fuels were established based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Next, CFD was used to evaluate the interactive influences among fuel properties and emissions quantitatively. The results demonstrated that kinematic viscosity, lower heating value, closed-cup flash point, density, and cetane number presented downward trends of varying degree with the increase in n-butanol content. Also, 10 vol. %, 50 vol. %, 90 vol. %, and 95 vol. % distillation temperatures decreased, and the range of decline decreased gradually. Hydrocarbon (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter emissions decreased, while nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions and fuel consumption increased. In the combustion process, the regions of concentration for the formation of HC and CO were the gap and near the wall, and the production of HC emissions lagged behind that of CO emissions.
Monkeys choose as if maximizing utility compatible with basic principles of revealed preference theory
Authors: Pastor-Bernier Alexandre , Plott Charles R. , Schultz Wolfram
Published: February 2017

Significance

Revealed preference theory scrutinizes utility maximization based on tradeoffs between goods. This notion concerns the transition from biological rewards (necessary for survival) to tradable economic goods (beneficial for welfare and evolutionary fitness). However, these assumptions have never been tested empirically in species closely related to humans, as would be necessary to infer a general biological mechanism. In this experiment, rhesus monkeys repeatedly chose between bundles of two goods. Their choice frequencies conformed to curves of equal choice frequency (indifference curves) and satisfied crucial consistency and axiomatic tests involving out-of-sample prediction from modeled indifference curves, transitivity, and axiomatic change of option set size. In satisfying stringent theoretical criteria, the data suggest the existence of well-structured preferences consistent with utility maximization.
Chemistry at the protein–mineral interface in L-ferritin assists the assembly of a functional (μ
3
-oxo)Tris[(μ
2
-peroxo)] triiron(III) cluster
Authors: Pozzi Cecilia , Ciambellotti Silvia , Bernacchioni Caterina , Di Pisa Flavio , Mangani Stefano , Turano Paola
Published: February 2017

Significance

Iron is an essential element in biology but has limited bioavailability. Ferritins are 24-mer iron-storage nanocage proteins that concentrate iron in their inner compartment as a bioavailable iron oxide biomineral. In L-type subunits, abundant in ferritins from organs involved in long-term iron storage, the biomineralization has been proposed to proceed through nucleation events involving iron(II) oxidation at the inner cage surface. Here, we demonstrate the nature and structural features of these nucleation sites. Structures captured during iron uptake show that the formation of the iron biomineral proceeds via the assembly of a tri-nuclear iron cluster, anchored to the protein through glutamic acid side chains, and involving oxo and peroxo ligands that are produced during the iron(II) oxidation by dioxygen.
Satellite-based assessment of yield variation and its determinants in smallholder African systems
Authors: Burke Marshall , Lobell David B.
Published: February 2017

Significance

Improvements in agricultural productivity in developing countries are thought to play a key role in poverty reduction. Unfortunately, such productivity remains poorly measured throughout much of the world, hampering efforts to evaluate and target productivity-enhancing interventions. Using high-resolution satellite imagery in combination with field data we collected from thousands of smallholder plots in Kenya, we show that satellite imagery can be used to estimate and understand yield variation at the field scale across African smallholders. Our results suggest a range of potential capabilities, including the inexpensive measurement of the impact of specific interventions, the broader characterization of the source and magnitude of yield gaps, and the development of financial products aimed at African smallholders.
Microfluidic droplet platform for ultrahigh-throughput single-cell screening of biodiversity
Authors: Terekhov Stanislav S. , Smirnov Ivan V. , Stepanova Anastasiya V. , Bobik Tatyana V. , Mokrushina Yuliana A. , Ponomarenko Natalia A. , Belogurov Alexey A. , Rubtsova Maria P. , Kartseva Olga V. , Gomzikova Marina O. , Moskovtsev Alexey A. , Bukatin Anton S. , Dubina Michael V. , Kostryukova Elena S. , Babenko Vladislav V. , Vakhitova Maria T. , Manolov Alexander I. , Malakhova Maja V. , Kornienko Maria A. , Tyakht Alexander V. , Vanyushkina Anna A. , Ilina Elena N. , Masson Patrick , Gabibov Alexander G. , Altman Sidney
Published: February 2017

Significance

Biocompatible microfluidic double water-in-oil-in-water emulsion (MDE) enables in-droplet cultivation of different living species. The combination of droplet-generating machinery with FACS followed by next-generation sequencing and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the secretomes of encapsulated organisms yielded detailed genotype/phenotype descriptions. The MDE–FACS platform we developed enabled highly sensitive single-cell selection of predesigned activity and exploration of pairwise interactions between target and effector cells without interference from other microbiota species.
Fabrication of superhydrophobic and oleophobic zinc coating on steel surface
Authors: Yu Sirong , Li Hao
Published: February 2017

In this work, a simple method, including electrodeposition and chemical modification, for fabrication of a superhydrophobic and oleophobic coating on steel substrate is reported. The surface morphology of this coating showed concave structure, and the contact angles of water and glycerol on this coating surface were about 153.57° and 149.32°, respectively. In addition, the water droplet was easy to roll on this coating surface, and the sliding angle was smaller than 10°. The contact angle of the water/ethanol droplet with different surface tension, from 56 to 36 mN m−1, was also >130° on this coating surface, indicating this as superhydrophobic and oleophobic coating surface with good lyophobicity. Moreover, this coating surface had excellent non-sticking property for the water droplet under a certain external pressure, self-cleaning property and long-term stability.
Strain aging on the yield strength to tensile strength ratio of UOE pipe
Authors: Wiskel J. B. , Ma J. , Valloton J. , Ivey D. G. , Henein H.
Published: February 2017

Strain aging of microalloyed steel pipe can occur at the relatively low temperatures associated with the pipe coating process and/or during long-term storage. A Box–Behnken statistical design was used to determine the significant strain aging variables that affect the longitudinal yield strength to tensile strength (Y/TS) ratio for three uncoated X70 UOE pipes. The strain aging variables examined include time, temperature, steel composition/microstructure (vis-a-vis the C/Nb ratio) and position through the pipe wall thickness. Metallographic and electron backscattered diffraction examinations were undertaken to determine the grain size and phase percentages of the as-received pipe steel. Both position in the pipe and the C/Nb ratio were found to have a statistically significant effect on the yield strength to tensile strength ratio.
Modelling of surfactants and chemistry for electroless Ni-P plating
Authors: Farzaneh Amir , Ehteshamzadeh Maryam , Cobley Andrew J.
Published: February 2017

In this work, the effects of the chemical formulation in an electroless nickel phosphorus electrolyte on the physical and mechanical performance of the obtained coating were evaluated. The study not only paid particular attention to the concentration and type of surfactant (anionic, cationic and non-ionic) but also investigated the effect of pH and concentration of sodium hypophosphite in the electrolyte. A three-level Box–Behnken factorial design related to response surface methodology was employed to model the effect of the mentioned parameters and optimise the properties of the coating. Two models fitted with experimental data obtained from microhardness and thickness measurement of the Ni-P coatings. The optimum conditions were determined at pH = 5 with 32 g L−1 sodium hypophosphite and 1.5 g L−1 anionic surfactant. According to the derived models, this formulation would give a Ni-P coating with a microhardness of 1080 Hv and a thickness of 23 µm.
Egg white hydrolysate inhibits oxidation in mayonnaise and a model system
Authors: Kobayashi Hideaki , Sasahara Ryou , Yoda Shoichi , Kotake-Nara Eiichi
Published: February 2017

The flavor deterioration of mayonnaise is induced by iron, which is released from egg yolk phosvitin under acidic conditions and promotes lipid oxidation. To prevent oxidative deterioration, natural components, rather than synthetic chemicals such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid have been required by consumers. In the present study, we evaluated the inhibitory effects of three egg white components with the same amino acid composition, namely egg white protein, hydrolysate, and the amino acid mixture, on lipid oxidation in mayonnaise and an acidic egg yolk solution as a model system. We found that the hydrolysate had the strongest inhibitory effect on lipid oxidation among the three components. The mechanism underlying the antioxidant effect was associated with Fe2+-chelating activity. Thus, egg white hydrolysate may have the potential as natural inhibitors of lipid oxidation in mayonnaise.
Capability for policy implementation
Authors: Andrews Matt , Pritchett Lant , Woolcock Michael
Published: February 2017

Before one thinks about building capability for policy implementation, one should ask what policymaking actually involves and why it often fails. To assist in this understanding, we delineated the idea of “a policy” into four elements: the policy formula, the organizational process for determining facts, normative objectives, and the causal model. This delineation highlights two distinct ways in which a policy could fail to achieve its normative objectives: (1) the policy formula could be based on a wrong causal model; or (2) the policy could just not be implemented. Efforts to build state capability must focus on the gaps associated with the different types of failure (which could involve gaps related to the kinds of facts used in policymaking or the gaps associated with weak organization in the implementation process, among others). If one focuses on the wrong kind of gap, one could build capability that entrenches the capability gap festering in a specific context; eg, improved compliance capability will entrench the wrong solutions if the policy formula is based on a wrong model that introduces isomorphic thinking. The chapter gives readers opportunities to reflect on the way that policy is made in their own country, and to think about where capabilities need to be improved.
What type of organization capability is needed?
Authors: Andrews Matt , Pritchett Lant , Woolcock Michael
Published: February 2017

There are many differences in the nature and demands of the challenges facing governments. Take, for instance, the challenge of building schools as compared with that of building a cadre of teachers who actively teach children. We often see governments fail in addressing challenges because they do not realize this, or adjust their efforts at building capability to suit the challenge they are facing. The same tools are used to build schools and to establish teacher groups, for instance. This chapter offers a way of thinking about the differences in such challenges, which helps show where governments need to adapt their methods of engagement, policymaking, and reform. To do this, we delineate an analytical typology that uses four questions to classify tasks or activities into five types of organizational capability it requires. The latter are: policymaking/elite services, logistics, implementation-intensive delivery of services, implementation-intensive imposition of obligations, and wicked hard. We offer exercises that readers can use to classify their own challenges, and determine what type they face.
Building state capability at scale through groups
Authors: Andrews Matt , Pritchett Lant , Woolcock Michael
Published: February 2017

How does a policy entrepreneur find a new solution and scale it up when dealing with complexity? This is the subject we address here, which outlines a new way of thinking about scale and sustainability in respect of complex challenges and then focuses on the importance of building broad agency solutions to ensure multidimensional scaling and dynamic sustainability. The idea of multidimensional scaling (or 4-D scaling) reflects various ways in which policymakers could see progress in solving complex problems. The idea of dynamic sustainability suggests an adaptive way of thinking about sustainability (where improvements are made, consolidated, and improved upon; reflecting a progressive and adaptive expansion in capability—rather than the achievement of some apparent premature medium-term end point). We discuss ways to achieve such scaling and sustainability through broad agency, and close by reflecting on the importance of “you” (the reader) using such ideas to rethink how you work.
Mexican American College Men's (Mis)Understandings About HPV and Cervical Cancer
Authors: Schiffner Tiffany A. , Buki Lydia P. , Sabet Raha F.
Published: February 2017

Latinas have disproportionally high rates of cervical cancer in part due to their reliance on Latino partners to make sexual health decisions, their limited knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV), and inconsistent Pap smear screening behaviors. In this qualitative study, we examined the sexual health beliefs of Latino college men regarding HPV. Participants included 6 Mexican American college students from a large Midwestern university. We conducted 18 in-depth individual interviews about men's beliefs, attitudes, and knowledge about HPV. Through theme analysis, we identified 4 themes suggesting that participants' limited knowledge of HPV places their female partners at risk. Implications for health promotion programming are discussed.
Cross-Reactivity of Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine With DRI Amphetamine Immunoassay
Authors: Gomila Isabel , Quesada Loreto , López-Corominas Victoria , Fernández Julia , Servera Miguel Á. , Sahuquillo Laura , Dastis Macarena , Torrents Albert , Barceló Bernardino
Published: February 2017

Background:

Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are medical drugs used to treat the chemoprophylaxis of malaria and a second-line anti-inflammatory drug.

Methods:

We performed a study of cross-reactivity of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in the DRI Amphetamine Assay inspired by a case report of a self-ingestion of chloroquine after a family dispute, that involved the following: (1) an in vitro study with control samples of healthy subjects, (2) an in vivo study with samples of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and (3) an evaluation of the cross-reactivity of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in 3 additional immunoassays.

Results:

In the case report, the Amphetamine DRI assay resulted positive both at 1000 ng/mL cutoff (1507 and 1137 ng/mL) and at 500 ng/mL cutoff (1178 and 642 ng/mL). Chloroquine urine levels were 103,900 and 100,900 ng/mL at 5 and 9 hours after ingestion. The results with control samples showed a positive cross-reactivity of chloroquine in the DRI Amphetamine Assay (approximately 0.74% and 0.89% at cutoff of 1000 and 500 ng/mL, respectively). Hydroxychloroquine did not cross-react with the DRI Amphetamine Assay up to 1,000,000 ng/mL. In patients treated with chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine, DRI Amphetamine did not produce false-positive results. The comparative assay study showed a positive cross-reactivity of chloroquine in the Emit II Plus Amphetamines Assay with control samples.

Conclusions:

Chloroquine can cause false-positive results in the DRI Amphetamine Assay when it is present at high concentrations. Hydroxychloroquine did not produce false-positive results neither in the DRI Amphetamine Assay nor in the others immunoassays evaluated.
PARS PLANA VITRECTOMY AND LENSECTOMY FOR ECTOPIA LENTIS WITH AND WITHOUT THE INDUCTION OF A POSTERIOR VITREOUS DETACHMENT
Authors: Singh Mandeep S. , Casswell Edward J. , Boukouvala Stavroula , Petrou Petros , Charteris David G.
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

Posterior hyaloid removal during pars plana vitrectomy and lensectomy for ectopia lentis is commonly performed, but may increase the risk of intraoperative retinal breaks and postoperative retinal detachment. This study evaluated outcomes after pars plana vitrectomy and lensectomy with or without posterior hyaloid removal.

Methods:

This retrospective observational cohort study included ectopia lentis cases that underwent pars plana vitrectomy and lensectomy (2005–2014), with or without intraoperative induction of a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). The primary outcome was postoperative retinal detachment. The secondary outcomes were the incidence of iatrogenic retinal breaks, and change in visual acuity.

Results:

Twenty-six cases were included. The posterior hyaloid was preserved intraoperatively in 11 cases (non-PVD group). In the remainder (15 cases), the vitreous was removed completely (PVD group). Postoperative retinal detachment occurred in 2 cases in each group (18.2% non-PVD vs.13.3% PVD, P = 0.7). Intraoperative breaks occurred more frequently in the PVD group (2 vs. 9 cases; P = 0.03). There was no difference in mean improvement in visual acuity (7 [PVD] vs. 3 [non-PVD] ETDRS lines; P = 0.2).

Conclusion:

The preservation of posterior hyaloid attachment during vitreolensectomy for ectopia lentis was associated with fewer iatrogenic retinal breaks. Postoperative retinal detachment did not seem to be influenced by the choice of surgical technique.
EFFECTS OF INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING COMBINED WITH REMOVAL OF IDIOPATHIC EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE
Authors: Azuma Kunihiro , Ueta Takashi , Eguchi Shuichiro , Aihara Makoto
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate the effects on postoperative prognosis of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in conjunction with removal of idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs).

Methods:

MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and EMBASE were systematically searched for studies that compared ILM peeling with no ILM peeling in surgery to remove idiopathic ERM. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity, central macular thickness, and ERM recurrence. Studies that compared ILM peeling with no ILM peeling for the treatment of idiopathic ERM were selected.

Results:

Sixteen studies that included 1,286 eyes were selected. All the included studies were retrospective or prospective comparative studies; no randomized controlled study was identified. Baseline preoperative best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness were equal between ILM peeling and no ILM peeling groups. Postoperatively, there was no statistically significant difference in best-corrected visual acuity (mean difference 0.01 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [equivalent to 0.5 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letter]; 95% CI −0.05 to 0.07 [−3.5 to 2.5 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters]; P = 0.83) or central macular thickness (mean difference 13.13 μm; 95% CI −10.66 to 36.93; P = 0.28). However, the recurrence rate of ERM was significantly lower with ILM peeling than with no ILM peeling (odds ratio 0.25; 95% CI 0.12–0.49; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Currently available evidence in the literature indicates that additional ILM peeling in vitrectomy for idiopathic ERM could result in a significantly lower ERM recurrence rate, but it does not significantly influence postoperative best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness.
Multimodal Assessment of Corneal Thinning Using Optical Coherence Tomography, Scheimpflug Imaging, Pachymetry, and Slit-Lamp Examination
Authors: Oatts Julius T. , Keenan Jeremy D. , Mannis Tova , Lietman Tom M. , Rose-Nussbaumer Jennifer
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

To assess the relationship between corneal thinning measured by clinician-graded slit-lamp examination compared with ultrasound pachymetry (USP), anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT), and the Pentacam.

Methods:

Patients with corneal thinning underwent USP, AS-OCT, Pentacam measurements and standardized clinical grading by 2 cornea specialists estimating thinning on slit-lamp examination. Reproducibility of each testing modality was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient. Bland–Altman plots were used to determine precision and limits of agreement (LOA) between imaging modalities and clinical grading.

Results:

We included 22 patients with corneal thinning secondary to infectious or inflammatory keratitis. Mean percent stromal thinning estimated by grader 1 was 51% (SD 31) and grader 2 was 49% (SD 33). The intraclass correlation coefficient between the masked examiners was 0.95 (95% confidence interval, 0.88–0.98). Graders were more similar to each other than to any other modality with 2% difference and 4.6% of measurements outside the LOA. When measuring the area of maximum thinning, AS-OCT measured approximately 10% thicker than human graders while the Pentacam measured approximately 10% thinner than human graders with 16.7% outside the LOA. USP measured approximately 20% thinner than human graders with 5.6% outside the LOA.

Conclusions:

Trained corneal specialists have a high degree of agreement in location and degree of corneal thinning when measured in a standardized fashion on the same day. Other testing modalities had acceptable reproducibility and agreement with clinical examination and each other, although Scheimpflug imaging fared worse for corneal thinning, particularly in the periphery, than the other modalities.
Recurrent Conjunctival Myofibrosarcoma Managed With Triple Application of Episcleral Brachytherapy
Authors: Platt Sean M. , Schoenfield Lynn , Basti Surendra , Bryar Paul J. , Goldblum John R. , Singh Annapurna , Singh Arun D.
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

To report a case of recurrent conjunctival myofibrosarcoma treated with wide surgical excision, cryotherapy, and triple sequential applications of episcleral brachytherapy.

Methods:

A single case of recurrent conjunctival myofibrosarcoma.

Results:

A 54-year-old man with a history of a renal transplant presented with a recurrent conjunctival tumor. Histopathologic diagnosis was established through immunohistochemistry. In total, 3 125iodine radiation episcleral plaques were used over a period of 49 weeks. After cicatricial ectropion repair and cataract surgery, visual acuity was 20/20 at 4.5-year follow-up without evidence of recurrence or radiation retinopathy.

Conclusions:

Myofibrosarcoma is a rare mesenchymal tumor that can present as ocular surface tumor. Final histopathologic diagnosis can be challenging, and immunohistochemistry is important for evaluation. Myofibrosarcoma should be considered in the clinical differential diagnosis of atypical ocular surface lesions and the histopathologic differential diagnosis of ocular spindle neoplasms.
Long-Term Clinical Course in Eyes With Peters Anomaly
Authors: Yoshikawa Haruna , Sotozono Chie , Ikeda Yoko , Mori Kazuhiko , Ueno Morio , Kinoshita Shigeru
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

Peters anomaly (PA) is known to be a primary cause of congenital corneal opacity. The aim of this study is to report the long-term clinical course and visual achievement of patients with PA who did not undergo keratoplasty.

Methods:

This retrospective study involved 15 eyes of 9 infants with PA less than 5 months of age at initial presentation at the Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine who were followed up without keratoplasty for more than 6 years after presentation. In each subject, visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), presence of congenital glaucoma, and change of corneal opacity were retrospectively investigated.

Results:

At initial presentation, the mean patient age was 2.3 months (SD: 1.3; range: 0–4 mo), and the mean follow-up period was 7.9 years (SD: 1.8; range: 6.5–11.3 yrs). Of the 9 patients, 6 were affected bilaterally. Thirteen eyes of 7 patients were found to have glaucoma. Over the follow-up period, corneal opacity gradually decreased in 4 eyes, 1 eye each of 2 unilateral patients without glaucoma and both eyes of 1 bilaterally affected patient with good IOP control during the follow-up period. Visual acuity in the unilateral case with intensive amblyopia treatment gradually increased along with decreasing corneal opacity.

Conclusions:

The findings of this study show that a natural decrease of corneal opacity can occur in eyes with PA. In cases of unilateral PA without IOP elevation and no enlargement of the corneal diameter, strict amblyopia treatment is vital to obtain a favorable visual prognosis.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Adolescent Health Promotion Scale in Chile: Differences by Socioeconomic Status and Gender
Authors: Rojas-Barahona Cristian A. , Gaete Jorge , Olivares Esterbina , Förster Carla E. , Chandia Eugenio , Chen Mei-Yen
Published: February 2017

Background:

The promotion of healthy behaviors is a relevant issue worldwide, especially among adolescent populations, as this is the developmental stage where most unhealthy behaviors become ingrained.

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Adolescent Health Promotion Scale (AHPS) in a Chilean sample of early adolescents.

Methods:

The sample was composed of 1,156 adolescents aged 10–14 years from schools in San Felipe, Chile. Item structure was assessed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses; reliability was measured using Cronbach’s alpha; and differences in terms of gender, age, and socioeconomic status (SES) were established using analysis of variance.

Results:

The analyses of item structure identified all of the six original factors (nutrition behaviors, health responsibility, social support, life appreciation, stress management and exercise behavior) as significant. However, eight items did not fit the Chilean population well. Therefore, the AHPS in Chile has been reduced to 32 items. The Cronbach’s alpha of the 32-item Chilean AHPS was .95, with the subscale coefficients ranging from .76 to .94. In addition, female subjects performed better than male subjects, and individuals of higher SES scored higher than the middle and lower socioeconomic groups. No differences on AHPS scores were found in different age groups.

Conclusions:

The AHPS appears to have good psychometric properties in terms of item structure and reliability. Consistent with studies carried out in other countries, health promotion behavioral differences were observed in association with gender and SES. The results support the Chilean version of the AHPS as an appropriate instrument for measuring the health promotion behaviors of early adolescents in Chile and for comparing results with those from other countries.
Method to Quantify Cadence Variability of Individuals with Lower-Limb Amputation
Authors: Arch Elisa S. , Erol Ozan , Bortz Connor , Madden Chelsea , Galbraith Matthew , Rossi Anthony , Lewis Jessica , Higginson Jill S. , Buckley Jenni M. , Horne John
Published: February 2017

Introduction

The ability to walk with different cadences (cadence variability) is considered an important factor for determining the functional ability of individuals with lower-limb amputation and making prosthetic recommendations. However, a method to quantify cadence variability of these individuals has never been presented before, so there are no standardized methodologies or values to guide prosthesis prescription. The purpose of this study was to develop and demonstrate feasibility of a method to quantify real-world cadence variability.

Materials and Methods

The method utilizes step-count data collected by an accelerometer-based activity monitor. Cadence at each minute is calculated. Then, the spread of the cadence data distribution during a 7-day observation period is measured to quantify cadence variability. To demonstrate feasibility, this method was applied to a set of step-count data for individuals with unilateral lower-limb amputation classified by their health care provider as a K2 or K3 ambulator.

Results

Results showed that this method was able to differentiate the cadence characteristics of individuals classified as K2 versus K3. On average, individuals classified as K2 walked with significantly less cadence variability than those classified as K3.

Conclusions

This study provides a novel method for objectively determining cadence variability and provides a foundation for ultimately developing normative cadence characteristic values for K2 and K3 levels.
Global Immunizations
Authors: Macintosh Janelle L. B. , Eden Lacey M. , Luthy Karlen E. , Schouten Aimee E.
Published: February 2017

Background:

Immunizations are one of the most important health interventions of the 20th century, yet people in many areas of the world do not receive adequate immunizations. Approximately 3 million people worldwide die every year from vaccine-preventable diseases; about half of these deaths are young children and infants. Global travel is more common; diseases that were once localized now can be found in communities around the world.

Problem:

Multiple barriers to immunizations have been identified. Healthcare access, cost, and perceptions of safety and trust in healthcare are factors that have depressed global immunization rates.

Interventions:

Several global organizations have focused on addressing these barriers as part of their efforts to increase immunization rates. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, The World Health Organization, and the United Nations Children's Emergency Fund each have a part of their organization that is concentrated on immunizations.

Clinical Implications:

Maternal child nurses worldwide can assist in increasing immunization rates. Nurses can participate in outreach programs to ease the burden of patients and families in accessing immunizations. Nurses can work with local and global organizations to make immunizations more affordable. Nurses can improve trust and knowledge about immunizations in their local communities. Nurses are a powerful influence in the struggle to increase immunization rates, which is a vital aspect of global health promotion and disease prevention.