bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diacetylene‐Bridged Periodic Mesoporous Organosilicas with Aggregates: Synthesis and Charge/Energy‐Transfer Properties
Authors: Wang Hui , Han Shuhua , Hu Yongfeng , Dynes James J.
Published: June 2016

Diacetylene‐bridged periodic mesoporous organosilicas (DAPMOs) with aggregates were synthesized and characterized. The DAPMO‐based donor–acceptor charge‐transfer (CT) system was prepared under ambient conditions, in which the diacetylenic groups in the pore walls were the electron donors and the decylviologen molecules acted as electron acceptors in the pore channels. The UV/Vis diffuse reflectance spectra and soft X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy showed the formation of the CT complex. Importantly, energy transfer from the diacetylene aggregates to the CT complex occurred upon excitation at 330 nm, which was demonstrated by the fluorescence spectra of the CT systems. This design of hybrid organic–inorganic materials based on PMOs is promising to construct effective electron and energy transfer systems to fabricate optoelectronic materials.
Tuning the Redox Properties of the Nanostructured CoMoO4 Electrode: Effects of Surfactant Content and Synthesis Temperature
Authors: Barmi Maryam Jozegholami , Minakshi Manickam
Published: June 2016

A systematic study was performed to examine the effects of surfactant content and synthesis temperature on the morphologies and the redox properties of cobalt molybdate (CoMoO4). The results revealed that varying the concentration of surfactant (F127) varies the morphology from nanorods to nanospheres and nanoneedles. A concentration of metal‐to‐surfactant ratio of 1:1 outperformed that of 1:0.5 and 1:2 ratios in specific capacitance, energy density and cycling stability. The surfactant at the optimised ratio significantly influenced the morphology and particle size of the CoMoO4 material and acted as a template, whereas increasing the synthetic temperature did not contribute much to the energy storage. An asymmetric supercapacitor was fabricated based on CoMoO4 as the positive electrode and activated carbon as the negative electrode in 2 m NaOH electrolyte. The CoMoO4 material synthesised at 300 °C in the presence of F127 (1:1) showed a specific capacitance of 79 F g−1 and an energy density of 21 W h kg−1 when tested as a hybrid device. This suggests that the redox activity and its storage capability depend on the surfactant content as well as its self‐assembly behaviour. CoMoO4 showed excellent cycling stability retaining over 75 % of its initial capacitance after 2000 cycles, which makes it a very promising candidate for large‐scale energy‐storage applications.
A Gross‐Margin Model for Defining Technoeconomic Benchmarks in the Electroreduction of CO2
Authors: Verma Sumit , Kim Byoungsu , Jhong Huei‐Ru “Molly” , Ma Sichao , Kenis Paul J. A.
Published: June 2016

We introduce a gross‐margin model to evaluate the technoeconomic feasibility of producing different C1–C2 chemicals such as carbon monoxide, formic acid, methanol, methane, ethanol, and ethylene through the electroreduction of CO2. Key performance benchmarks including the maximum operating cell potential (Vmax), minimum operating current density (jmin), Faradaic efficiency (FE), and catalyst durability (tcatdur) are derived. The Vmax values obtained for the different chemicals indicate that CO and HCOOH are the most economically viable products. Selectivity requirements suggest that the coproduction of an economically less feasible chemical (CH3OH, CH4, C2H5OH, C2H4) with a more feasible chemical (CO, HCOOH) can be a strategy to offset the Vmax requirements for individual products. Other performance requirements such as jmin and tcatdur are also derived, and the feasibility of alternative process designs and operating conditions are evaluated.
Methane‐induced Activation Mechanism of Fused Ferric Oxide–Alumina Catalysts during Methane Decomposition
Authors: Reddy Enakonda Linga , Zhou Lu , Saih Youssef , Ould‐Chikh Samy , Lopatin Sergei , Gary Daniel , Del‐Gallo Pascal , Basset Jean‐Marie
Published: June 2016

Activation of Fe2O3–Al2O3 with CH4 (instead of H2) is a meaningful method to achieve catalytic methane decomposition (CMD). This reaction of CMD is more economic and simple against commercial methane steam reforming (MSR) as it produces COx‐free H2. In this study, for the first time, structure changes of the catalyst were screened during CH4 reduction with time on stream. The aim was to optimize the pretreatment conditions through understanding the activation mechanism. Based on results from various characterization techniques, reduction of Fe2O3 by CH4 proceeds in three steps: Fe2O3→Fe3O4→FeO→Fe0. Once Fe0 is formed, it decomposes CH4 with formation of Fe3C, which is the crucial initiation step in the CMD process to initiate formation of multiwall carbon nanotubes.
The use of tandem yeast and mammalian cell in vitro androgen bioassays to detect androgens in internet‐sourced sport supplements
Authors: Cooper Elliot R. , McGrath Kristine C.Y. , Li Xiaohong , Akram Omar , Kasz Robert , Kazlauskas Rymantas , McLeod Malcolm D. , Handelsman David J. , Heather Alison K.
Published: June 2016

Sport supplements containing steroids never approved for therapeutic use have the potential for abuse by athletes. Most are marketed online and may contain undisclosed steroids yet are readily available despite lacking toxicological or pharmacological evaluation. In this study, 18 supplements purchased online underwent organic solvent extraction to isolate any steroids they contained. From the 18 supplements, 19 steroids were identified and for each, its intrinsic androgenic potency was determined by a yeast cell (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) androgen bioassay and its potential androgenic potency was determined by a liver (HuH7) cell androgen bioassay. The yeast bioassay showed that of the 19 steroids tested, 6 demonstrated strong intrinsic bioactivity, with 4 metabolically activated to even stronger androgens. Moreover, 4 steroids with moderate and 1 with intrinsically weak androgenic bioactivity were activated to more potent androgens. Finally, 8 steroids were metabolically inactivated or deactivated into weaker androgens. Our results show that Internet‐sourced sport supplements may contain intrinsically strong androgens, or precursors that can be metabolized to them. These potentially potent pharmacologically active steroids are being used without regulatory control or consumer awareness of their potential adverse effects. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Soil organic carbon stocks in estuarine and marine mangrove ecosystems are driven by nutrient colimitation of P and N
Authors: Weiss Christian , Weiss Joanna , Boy Jens , Iskandar Issi , Mikutta Robert , Guggenberger Georg
Published: June 2016

Mangroves play an important role in carbon sequestration, but soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks differ between marine and estuarine mangroves, suggesting differing processes and drivers of SOC accumulation. Here, we compared undegraded and degraded marine and estuarine mangroves in a regional approach across the Indonesian archipelago for their SOC stocks and evaluated possible drivers imposed by nutrient limitations along the land‐to‐sea gradients. SOC stocks in natural marine mangroves (271–572 Mg ha−1 m−1) were much higher than under estuarine mangroves (100–315 Mg ha−1 m−1) with a further decrease caused by degradation to 80–132 Mg ha−1 m−1. Soils differed in C/N ratio (marine: 29–64; estuarine: 9–28), δ15N (marine: −0.6 to 0.7‰; estuarine: 2.5 to 7.2‰), and plant‐available P (marine: 2.3–6.3 mg kg−1; estuarine: 0.16–1.8 mg kg−1). We found N and P supply of sea‐oriented mangroves primarily met by dominating symbiotic N2 fixation from air and P import from sea, while mangroves on the landward gradient increasingly covered their demand in N and P from allochthonous sources and SOM recycling. Pioneer plants favored by degradation further increased nutrient recycling from soil resulting in smaller SOC stocks in the topsoil. These processes explained the differences in SOC stocks along the land‐to‐sea gradient in each mangrove type as well as the SOC stock differences observed between estuarine and marine mangrove ecosystems. This first large‐scale evaluation of drivers of SOC stocks under mangroves thus suggests a continuum in mangrove functioning across scales and ecotypes and additionally provides viable proxies for carbon stock estimations in PES or REDD schemes.
Variation in complex mating signals in an “island” hybrid zone betweenStenobothrusgrasshopper species
Authors: Sradnick Jan , Klöpfel Anja , Elsner Norbert , Vedenina Varvara
Published: June 2016

Two grasshopper speciesStenobothrus rubicundusandS. clavatuswere previously shown to meet in a narrow hybrid zone on Mount Tomaros in northern Greece. The species are remarkable for their complex courtship songs accompanied by conspicuous movements of antennae and wings. We analyzed variations in forewing morphology, antenna shape, and courtship song across the hybrid zone using a geographic information system, and we documented three contact zones on Mount Tomaros. All male traits and female wings show abrupt transitions across the contact zones, suggesting that these traits are driven by selection rather than by drift. Male clines in antennae are displaced towardS. clavatus, whereas all clines in wings are displaced towardS. rubicundus. We explain cline discordance as depending on sexual selection via female choice. The high covariance between wings and antennae found in the centers of all contact zones results from high levels of linkage disequilibria among the underlying loci, which in turn more likely results from assortative mating than from selection against hybrids. The covariance is found to be higher inclavatus‐like thanrubicundus‐like populations, which implies asymmetric assortative mating in parental‐like sites of the hybrid zone and a movement of the hybrid zone in favor ofS. clavatus.
Characterizing the trophic niches of stocked and resident cyprinid fishes: consistency in partitioning over time, space and body sizes
Authors: Bašić Tea , Britton J. Robert
Published: June 2016

Hatchery‐reared fish are commonly stocked into freshwaters to enhance recreational angling. As these fishes are often of high trophic position and attain relatively large sizes, they potentially interact with functionally similar resident fishes and modify food‐web structure. Hatchery‐reared barbel Barbus barbus are frequently stocked to enhance riverine cyprinid fish communities in Europe; these fish can survive for over 20 years and exceed 8 kg. Here, their trophic consequences for resident fish communities were tested using cohabitation studies, mainly involving chub Squalius cephalus, a similarly large‐bodied, omnivorous and long‐lived species. These studies were completed over three spatial scales: pond mesocosms, two streams and three lowland rivers, and used stable isotope analysis. Experiments in mesocosms over 100 days revealed rapid formation of dietary specializations and discrete trophic niches in juvenile B. barbus and S. cephalus. This niche partitioning between the species was also apparent in the streams over 2 years. In the lowland rivers, where fish were mature individuals within established populations, this pattern was also generally apparent in fishes of much larger body sizes. Thus, the stocking of these hatchery‐reared fish only incurred minor consequences for the trophic ecology of resident fish, with strong patterns of trophic niche partitioning and diet specialization. Application of these results to decision‐making frameworks should enable managers to make objective decisions on whether cyprinid fish should be stocked into lowland rivers according to ecological risk.
Stress, ontogeny, and movement determine the relative importance of facilitation for juvenile mussels
Authors: de Nesnera Kristin L.
Published: June 2016

A number of ecological factors have been shown to influence the importance of positive interactions (i.e., facilitation) in nature, including environmental stress and ontogenetic effects, and many more are likely to emerge as facilitation research expands to new ecosystems and taxa. In this study, I used a combination of field surveys and experiments to explore the roles of stress, ontogeny, and organismal movement in determining the importance of mussel (Mytilus californianus) recruit facilitation in central California. Results indicate that interactions between mussel recruits (shell length <20 mm) and habitat ameliorating neighbors shift from neutral to positive from the low to high mussel zone. I also observed ontogenetic shifts in recruit survival and growth in the upper mussel zone that suggest mussel recruits migrate from algal substrate to adult mussel beds. This type of habitat shift, where an organism moves sequentially from one facilitator to another, may be common in nature and presents an exciting new area for research.
Forest–grassland biodiversity hotspot under siege: land conversion counteracts nature conservation
Authors: Hermann Julia-maria , Lang Marion , Gonçalves Juliana , Hasenack Heinrich
Published: June 2016

We report extent and rate of land use/land cover change in a forest–grassland mosaic of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, during a recent period of increasing conflicts between native habitat protection and conversion. The area is part of the Atlantic rain forest biome, a Global Biodiversity Hotspot. Analyzing Landsat and Google Earth imagery, and calculating an effective conservation risk index () as ratio of converted to remnant area, we specifically compared the effectiveness of designated fully protected areas (-s) and Sustainable Use areas (-s) in preventing conversion of native forest and grassland habitats for agri- and silviculture, relative to areas outside. Grassland area decreased by 17%, corresponding to a net loss of 59,671 ha, in the entire area. Forest gains exceeded losses, and was zero inside Full Protection s. Non-native tree plantation area increased by 94% over the entire study area; cropland increased by 7%. Conversion for silviculture predominated outside the designated s and conversion for agriculture predominated inside the designated s. was generally higher for grassland than forest, and in -s, grassland was several times higher than in areas without any protection status. These developments are in stark contrast to the high standards of the Brazilian protected area system and corresponding International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources categories. They are due to protracted regularization of land conversion and establishment of designated protection areas. Furthermore, they reveal the dilemma of previously managed grasslands in strictly protected areas being eventually succeeded by forest, and the hazards of broad interpretation of the term “sustainable development”.
Life cycle and masting of a recovering keystone indicator species under climate fluctuation
Authors: Guo Qinfeng , Zarnoch Stanley J. , Chen Xiongwen , Brockway Dale G.
Published: June 2016

Ecosystem health and sustainability, to a large degree, depend on the performance of keystone or dominant species. The role of climate on population dynamics of such species has been extensively examined, especially for health indicator species. Yet the life‐cycle processes and response lags for many species could complicate efforts to detect clear climate signals. Longleaf pine (
Pinus palustris
Mill.) is such a keystone tree species in the southeastern United States that has declined in both abundance and distribution during the past century. Despite research efforts on multiple fronts, the mechanisms behind the large spatial and temporal fluctuations in cone production that affects its regeneration are largely unknown. On the basis of long‐term (15–56 yr) monitoring data at 10 sites across the species' native range, we examine the spatial and temporal patterns in cone production and possible climatic effects on those patterns using the information‐theoretic approach. Cone production exhibited great variation across sites and years, and long‐term data revealed a weak, ca. 3 yr cycle (4 in one case) across the native range. The effects of climate were rather complex, most likely due to a mismatch between the prolonged cone‐production life‐cycle process and climatic fluctuation. Spatially, sites close to each other generally showed similar physical conditions and temporal trends in cone production. Across sites within longleaf pine's range, moderate climate conditions appear to promote cone production. At most sites, there was an increasing trend in cone production, but how such a trend might be linked to climate change requires further investigation.
Difluorotriorganylphosphoranes for the Synthesis of Fluorophosphonium and Bismuthonium Salts
Authors: Solyntjes Sven , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Ignat'ev Nikolai , Hoge Berthold
Published: June 2016

Fluoride ion affinities (FIA), provided by DFT calculations, are exceedingly useful for the design of new Lewis acids with defined reactivities. Herein, we report the synthesis, characterization and reactivity of new difluoro(perfluoroorganyl)phosphoranes, which readily abstract fluoride ions from difluoro(triorganyl)phosphoranes. Highly reactive fluorobismuthonium cations and the [Ph3Bi(NCCH3)2]2+ cation are accessible through the treatment of difluoro(triorganyl)bismuth(V) compounds with the Lewis acidic phosphoranes discussed here.
Comparative study on effect of titania morphology for light harvesting and scattering of DSSCs: Mesoporous nanoparticles, microspheres, and dandelion‐like particles
Authors: Mozaffari N. , Mohammadi M.R. , Garmaroudi Z. Andaji , Gharavi P.S. Musavi
Published: June 2016

The light scattering and harvesting effects in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is studied by controlling morphology, phase composition, and thickness of monolayer and double‐layer TiO2 photoanode electrodes. The starting materials for preparation of TiO2 cells, including 25 nm mesoporous anatase nanoparticles, 200 nm anatase microspheres, 10 µm dandelion‐like rutile particles and 40 nm nanoparticles containing 80% anatase‐20% rutile, are synthesized by evaporation‐induced self‐assembly, sol‐gel, and hydrothermal processes. It was found that the mesoporous anatase nanoparticles may improve light harvesting and dye‐sensitization due to their high surface area and small particle size, whereas the microspheres and dandelion‐like particles can enhance light scattering effect. The improvement of light harvesting efficiency is obtained by controlling the microstructure and thickness of photoanode electrode to increase dye adsorption. This is achieved by preparation of high surface area TiO2 monolayer film with optimum thickness and good connections between the particles using mesoporous anatase nanoparticles. The influence of film's thickness on photovoltaic characteristics of monolayer DSSCs shows that the optimal thickness around 30 μm results in the highest cell efficiency of 6.31%. The enhancement of light scattering is acheieved by design of a proper scattering layer with desired morphology and phase composition. The dye loading property of the scattering layer is also considered simultaneously. The photovoltaic characteristics of double‐layer DSSCs, with total thickness of 30 µm, reveal that the cell efficiency enhances up to 7.54 and 8.91% using a mixture of dandelion‐like particles and mesoporous nanoparticles and microspheres and mesoporous nanoparticles, respectively. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 1818–1826, 2016
Short-term phytotoxicity in Brassica napus (L.) in response to pre-emergently applied metazachlor: A microcosm study
Authors: Vercampt Hanne , Koleva Lyubka , Vassilev Andon , Vangronsveld Jaco , Cuypers Ann
Published: June 2016

In accordance with realistic application approaches, a short-term 1-factorial experiment was set up to investigate the phytotoxic impact of pre-emergent application of the chloroacetamide herbicide metazachlor on Brassica napus. In addition to morphological parameters, the underlying processes that ultimately determine the extent of herbicide-induced phytotoxicity (i.e., herbicide metabolization and cellular antioxidant defense) were examined. The present study demonstrated that metazachlor provoked fasciation of the leaves closely after emergence, which might be linked to its mode of action whereby cell division is impaired through the inhibition of very long chain fatty acid synthesis. The increased activities of antioxidative enzymes and metabolites in leaf tissue indicated the presence of reactive oxygen species under the influence of metazachlor. This resulted in oxidative damage in the form of membrane lipid peroxidation. Simultaneously, the increased activity of glutathione S-transferase and the shift in glutathione redox state suggested activation of the detoxification metabolism. This occurred, however, at the expense of growth, with a temporary reduction in plant height and weight after application. The results indicated that metazachlor disappeared within 3 mo to 4 mo after application, which resulted in the recovery of the crop. In conclusion, metazachlor induces phytotoxicity in the short term, either directly through its mode of action or indirectly through the induction of oxidative stress, which resulted in a temporary reduction in growth. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:59–70. © 2016 SETAC
Teaching With a Technological Twist: Exit Tickets via Twitter in Literacy Classrooms
Authors: Amaro‐Jiménez Carla , Hungerford‐Kresser Holly , Pole Kathryn
Published: June 2016

In this article, the authors describe, reflect, and analyze the implementation of a commonly used teaching strategy with a technological twist: exit tickets via Twitter. Longitudinal data collected over the course of three years demonstrated that using Twitter to reinvent a nondigital teaching practice ultimately demonstrated a better understanding of student learning, provided a model for effective teaching, and offered more opportunities to hear student voices. Likewise, analyses showed the most important benefit of the strategy was an immediacy to classroom interactions. Examples of these interactions and the value in the immediacy, which allowed the instructor to capitalize on teachable moments and cocreate curriculum with students, are highlighted.
PCL films of varying porosity influence ICAM‐1 expression of HUVECs
Authors: Hu Xingyou , Hu Tao , Shen Gaotian , Lian Mingqiang , Guan Guoping , Wang Fujun , Wang Lu
Published: June 2016

Here, we investigate the relationship between the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) and the adhesion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) on a poly‐ε‐caprolactone (PCL) film with micropores of different pore sizes. The results showed that surface hydrophilicity increased with larger pore sizes, while surfaces became less hydrophilic as the pore size decreased. The ability for adhesion and proliferation of HUVECs on surfaces with larger pore sizes was enhanced as compared with that of surfaces with smaller pore sizes or a flat film. Furthermore, levels of mICAM‐1 were increased and sICAM‐1 decreased as a function of increasing pore size. These findings demonstrate that film surfaces with larger pore sizes may promote cell adhesion and proliferation and lead to increases in expression of mICAM‐1. Thus, we conclude that the pore size of the material's surface exerts a significant impact on the expression of adhesion molecules, the expression of which can represent an important new marker for investigating cell‐surface adhesion and proliferation. Moreover, as elevated levels of sICAM‐1 are associated with conditions such as inflammation, thrombosis, cerebral infarct and other diseases in vivo, it may serve as an early‐warning risk marker when using medical biomaterials. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 2775–2784, 2016.
Association of Genetic Variants at the 4q25 Locus with Atrial Fibrillation in Indian Population
Authors: Bhanushali Aparna , Nair Akhil , Jagdale Ganesh , Suvarna Tilak , Das Bibhu R.
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in clinical settings known to impair cardiac function. Genome‐wide association studies identified SNPs on chromosome 4q25 to be associated with AF. Till date no information is available from India related to the association of these variants with AF.

Materials and Methods

Two hundred and sixty‐seven individuals comprising of 170 patients with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), 41 patients with AF, and 56 healthy controls were genotyped for rs10033464 and rs2200733 at 4q25 locus.

Results

Strong association of rs10033464 with AF was observed on comparison with control groups (OR: 2.59; 95% CI: 1.08–6.21; P: 0.031) and between post‐coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) AF and control with dominant genetic model (OR: 4.73; 95% CI: 1.50–14.89; P: 0.0071). Comparison of post‐CABG AF with CAD also indicated association (OR: 2.73; 95% CI: 0.9–7.56; P value: 0.05). In contrast, the rs2200733 C>T variant did not show any association with post‐CABG AF, but with lone AF with the ‘T’ allele being associated with increased risk was seen (OR: 2.80; 95% CI: 1.08–7.24; P value: 0.042).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rs10033464 (T) allele is associated with the risk of post‐CABG AF and the rs2200733 (T) with lone AF.
Evaluation of CEDIA and DRI Drugs of Abuse Immunoassays for Urine Screening on a Thermo Indiko Plus Analyzer
Authors: Köhler Katharina M. , Hammer Raija , Riedy Kathrin , Auwärter Volker , Neukamm Merja A.
Published: June 2016

Background

For analysis of urine samples during abstinence control for driving ability assessment (medical and psychological assessment, MPA), a reliable screening method for ethyl glucuronide and drugs of abuse (cannabinoids, opiates, cocaine, amphetamines, methadone, and benzodiazepines) is needed.

Methods

In this study CEDIA and DRI immunoassays were applied on a Thermo Fisher Scientific Indiko Plus analyzer. Precision and accuracy as well as sensitivity and specificity at the required cut‐offs for the MPA were evaluated.

Results

The specificity was satisfactory and ranged from 91% for methamphetamine to 100% for opiates, cocaine metabolite, amphetamine, EDDP, and benzodiazepines. Moreover, sensitivity was 100% for all assays except for cannabinoids (91%).

Conclusion

The presented method can therefore be recommended for abstinence control.
Benefits of side‐by‐side deployment of 6‐mm covered self‐expandable metal stents for hilar malignant biliary obstructions
Authors: Yoshida Tsukasa , Hara Kazuo , Imaoka Hiroshi , Hijioka Susumu , Mizuno Nobumasa , Ishihara Makoto , Tanaka Tsutomu , Tajika Masahiro , Niwa Yasumasa , Yamao Kenji
Published: June 2016

Background

The best way to perform endoscopic stenting for hilar malignant biliary obstruction (HMBO) is under discussion. Recently, a 6‐mm covered self‐expandable metal stent (CSEMS) has become available. In this article, the results of side‐by‐side (SBS) 6‐mm CSEMS deployment for HMBO are reported.

Methods

A total of 22 patients, 32 procedures of SBS 6‐mm CSEMS [16 fully covered (FCSEMS), 16 partially covered (PCSEMS)] deployment for HMBO, were prospectively enrolled from November 2011 to June 2015 and retrospectively analyzed. Technical and clinical success rates, stent patency period, complications, and re‐intervention success rates were analyzed.

Results

The overall/FCSEMS/PCSEMS technical and clinical success rates were 96.9%/93.8%/100% and 93.5%/100%/87.5%, respectively. The mean stent patency period was 95/113/68 days. Early and late complication rates were 3.1%/0%/6.3% and 6.3%/12.5%/0%, respectively. Stent exchange was attempted in 12 procedures, and the stent exchange success rate was 83.3%/100%/75%.

Conclusions

This is the first report of SBS 6‐mm CSEMS deployment for HMBO. This procedure has high technical and clinical success rates and the advantages of ease of performance and a high success rate of re‐intervention. Outcomes appear better with FCSEMS than with PCSEMS deployment. Since stent patency is still controversial, large‐sample studies are needed.
In vivo measurement of vertebral endplate surface area along the whole‐spine
Authors: Kishimoto Maho , Akeda Koji , Sudo Akihiro , Espinoza Orías Alejandro A. , Inoue Nozomu
Published: June 2016

Accurate determination of vertebral endplate surface area and diameters plays an important role in surgical procedures, spinal implant design and sizing. The objective of this study was to contribute with baseline information on the endplate geometrical parameters using subject‐based 3D whole‐spine computed tomography (CT) models based on myelogram CT images taken of 49 patients with spinal disorders. Superior and inferior bony endplate mesh‐models were created from said 3D CT models and endplate geometrical parameters including total polygon‐mesh areas, projected areas and antero posterior and transverse diameters of each endplate were measured. The position of each endplate was determined by the cumulative distance along the spinal column with respect to C2. Endplate area and diameters were analyzed by gender, spinal level, age and correlation with spinal position. Males had larger endplates than females at all levels (p < 0.05) but S1. While endplate areas and transverse diameters increased with age at C3‐L5 in females, these increases were not consistent through the whole‐spine and even decreases with age were found at T1‐T3 in males. There was a strong linear correlation between endplate area and spinal position in males and females with correlation coefficient values of r = 0.938 and r = 0.911, respectively. However, multiple comparisons of the geometrical parameters through the whole‐spine revealed localized reduction of the anteroposterior or transverse diameters at T4 and L5‐S1 levels. These regional and age‐related changes in endplate dimensions should be taken into account for safe interventional treatments at these sites. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1418–1430, 2016.
Systematic approach to optimize a pretreatment method for ultrasensitive liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis of multiple target compounds in biological samples
Authors: Togashi Kazutaka , Mutaguchi Kuninori , Komuro Setsuko , Kataoka Makoto , Yamazaki Hiroshi , Yamashita Shinji
Published: June 2016

In current approaches for new drug development, highly sensitive and robust analytical methods for the determination of test compounds in biological samples are essential. These analytical methods should be optimized for every target compound. However, for biological samples that contain multiple compounds as new drug candidates obtained by cassette dosing tests, it would be preferable to develop a single method that allows the determination of all compounds at once. This study aims to establish a systematic approach that enables a selection of the most appropriate pretreatment method for multiple target compounds without the use of their chemical information. We investigated the retention times of 27 known compounds under different mobile phase conditions and determined the required pretreatment of human plasma samples using several solid‐phase and liquid–liquid extractions. From the relationship between retention time and recovery in a principal component analysis, appropriate pretreatments were categorized into several types. Based on the category, we have optimized a pretreatment method for the identification of three calcium channel blockers in human plasma. Plasma concentrations of these drugs in a cassette‐dose clinical study at microdose level were successfully determined with a lower limit of quantitation of 0.2 pg/mL for diltiazem, 1 pg/mL for nicardipine, and 2 pg/mL for nifedipine.
Transoral robotic base of tongue reduction for obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Miller Stephen C. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Ong Adrian A. , Gillespie M. Boyd
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the effect of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) base of tongue (BOT) reduction on sleep‐related outcomes in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Ovid.

Review Methods

Literature search by two independent authors was conducted using the abovementioned databases. Studies on TORS BOT reduction as part of OSA treatment in adult patients with pre‐ and postoperative apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) scores were included. Studies on TORS as treatment for diseases other than OSA were excluded.

Results

A total of six articles with 353 patients treated with TORS BOT reduction met inclusion criteria. Pooled analyses (baseline vs. postsurgery) showed significant improvement in the following: AHI (44.3 ± 22.4 to 17.8 ± 16.5, P < .01), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (12.9 ± 5.4 to 5.8 ± 3.7, P < .01), lowest oxygen saturation (79.0 ± 9.5 to 84.1 ± 6.5, P < .01), and snoring visual analog scale (9.3 ± 0.8 to 2.4 ± 2.43, P < .01). Surgical success rate, defined as a >50% reduction of AHI with a postoperative AHI < 20, was 68.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 63.0%‐73.5%). Cure rate (postoperative AHI < 5) was 23.8% (95% CI = 19.1%‐29.2%).

Conclusions

TORS BOT reduction decreases AHI and symptoms of sleepiness in adult patients with OSA. It is considered successful in a majority of cases; however, further studies must be performed to optimize patient selection criteria to achieve higher rates of success. Laryngoscope, 127:258–265, 2017
Extended and treatment‐oriented classification of parotid duct stenosis
Authors: Koch Michael , Iro Heinrich
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To provide an extended and treatment‐oriented classification of parotid duct stenosis that might be useful in the management of this condition.

Study Design

Retrospective study in a tertiary referral center.

Methods

A total of 550 symptomatic stenoses of the parotid gland excretory duct in 445 patients were analyzed. Sialendoscopy was performed with semirigid endoscopes. The tissue quality, location, grade of luminal narrowing, and length and number of the stenoses were assessed.

Results

Inflammation‐dominant stenosis (type 1) was found in 8.9% of the patients, web‐associated fibrous stenosis (type 2) in 19.5%, and fibrous (type 3) in 71.6%. Multiple stenoses (≥3) were found in 2.8% of patients, and bilateral stenoses in 11.9%. Type 1 stenoses differed significantly from type 3 stenoses, with lower grades. Type 3 stenoses showed significantly higher grades of luminal narrowing than the other two types (P = .0001). Type 2 stenoses were significantly shorter in comparison with the other two types (P = .0001). Multiple stenoses were observed significantly more often in type 2 than in type 3 stenoses (P = .0001). Due to these differences, the type of stenosis appears to be the most important criterion in the treatment‐oriented classification.

Conclusions

Significant differences between the different stenoses were observed. Type 1 stenosis may be considered as a precursor of type 3 stenosis, but type 2 stenosis showed significantly different characteristics. The differences prescribed in this classification may be helpful in the management of parotid duct stenoses.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 2016 127:366–371, 2017
Smoking cessation is associated with improved survival in oropharynx cancer treated by chemoradiation
Authors: Platek Alexis J. , Jayaprakash Vijayvel , Merzianu Mihai , Platek Mary E. , Cohan David M. , Hicks Wesley L. , Marimuthu Sathiya P. , Winslow Timothy B. , Gupta Vishal , Arshad Hassan , Kuriakose Moni A. , Dibaj Shiva , Marshall James R. , Reid Mary E. , Warren Graham W. , Singh Anurag K.
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

The effect of smoking and human papillomavirus (HPV) on overall survival (OS) of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) patients undergoing concurrent chemotherapy (CCRT) remains unclear.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Clinical characteristics of OPSCC patients treated between 2008 and 2015 with CCRT were abstracted from medical records. OS curves and multivariate cox proportional hazard ratios (HRs) were examined.

Results

Of 120 evaluable patients, 71% had HPV+ tumors. Median follow‐up duration for the entire cohort was 41.5 months (range = 6–88 months). HPV+ current smokers experienced significantly worse 5‐year OS (73% alive vs. 36% alive, P = .01) and there was a similar trend in HPV− current smokers (66% alive vs. 31% alive, P = .28) compared to former/never smokers undergoing CCRT. In a multivariate cox proportional hazard model adjusted for age, gender, and overall tumor stage, HPV+ current smokers experienced nearly a fourfold increase in overall mortality in comparison to HPV+ never/former smokers (HR = 3.68, 95% CI = 1.35‐10.0). Similarly, current smokers with HPV− tumors (HR = 6.80, 95% CI = 1.11‐41.67) had increased mortality compared to never/former smokers.

Conclusions

Current smoking is associated with poor prognosis, independent of HPV status, in CCRT‐treated OPSCC patients. Current smoking produced an approximately four‐ to sevenfold increase in risk of mortality for HPV+ and HPV− patients, respectively. Regardless of pack years and HPV status, efforts should be made to achieve smoking cessation before CCRT.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:2733–2738, 2016
Cochlear implantation for single‐sided deafness: A multicenter study
Authors: Sladen Douglas P. , Frisch Christopher D. , Carlson Matthew L. , Driscoll Colin L.W. , Torres Jennifer H. , Zeitler Daniel M.
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To report the preliminary outcomes of patients with single‐sided deafness and asymmetric hearing loss undergoing cochlear implantation at two centers.

Study Design

Retrospective review and prospective data collection.

Methods

Patients with single‐sided deafness who underwent cochlear implantation at two centers were included. Pre‐ and postoperative measures included monosyllabic word and sentence recognition in quiet for the ear implanted, and sentence recognition in noise in the best‐aided bilateral condition.

Results

Average monosyllabic word recognition scores in quiet improved significantly from 11.3% (standard deviation [SD] 15.6%) preoperatively to 48.7% (SD 24.2%) at the 3‐month postactivation interval, although they did not increase significantly between the 3‐month and 6‐month intervals. Sentence recognition scores in quiet increased significantly from 18.4% (SD 28.5%) preoperatively to 65.9% (SD 17.9%) at the 3‐month postactivation interval, but not between the 3‐month and 6‐month intervals. Sentence recognition in noise in the best‐aided bilateral condition increased from 59% (SD 16.3%) preoperatively to 72% (SD 16.0%) at 6‐months postactivation, though the difference was not statistically significant. Thirteen of the participants reported tinnitus prior to surgery. Of those, 12 reported that tinnitus was improved after implantation, and one reported that tinnitus was unchanged.

Conclusion

Preliminary results suggest that speech recognition in a singly deafened ear is significantly improved after cochlear implantation, although speech recognition in noise measured in the bilateral condition remains the same at 6‐months postactivation.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:223–228, 2017
Mesenchymal stem cells have antifibrotic effects on transforming growth factor‐β1‐stimulated vocal fold fibroblasts
Authors: Hiwatashi Nao , Bing Renjie , Kraja Iv , Branski Ryan C.
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold therapeutic promise for vocal fold scar, yet the precise mechanism(s) underlying tissue level changes remain unclear. We hypothesize that MSCs interact with native fibroblasts to favorably affect healing. Furthermore, we hypothesize that these interactions vary based on MSC source.

Methods

Vocal fold fibroblasts (VFFs), adipose‐derived stem cells, and bone marrow‐derived stem cells (BMSCs) were extracted from Sprague‐Dawley rats; and a coculture model was employed culturing VFFs ± transforming growth factor (TGF‐β1) (10 ng/mL) ± MSCs. Monoculture MSCs were also prepared as a control. Both extracellular matrix (ECM) and components of the TGF‐β signaling pathway were analyzed via polymerase chain reaction and western blotting.

Results

Significantly decreased TGF‐β1 mRNA and α‐smooth muscle actin protein was observed in VFFs in response to TGF‐β1 in the coculture with both MSCs (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). BMSCs significantly downregulated collagen I (P < 0.05), collagen III (P < 0.05), Smad3 (P < 0.01), and TGF‐β1 receptor I (P < 0.01) mRNA in VFFs. Hyaluronic synthase‐1 and 2 increased in cocultured BMSCs when compared with monocultured BMSCs at baseline and in response to TGF‐β1 (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

MSCs had a favorable effect on ECM regulation as well as suppression of TGF‐β1 signaling in VFF. Bidirectional paracrine signaling was also observed as VFFs altered ECM regulation in MSCs. These data provide insight into the regenerative effects of MSCs and provide a foundation for clinical application.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 127:E35–E41, 2017
Review of videolaryngoscopy pharyngeal wall injuries
Authors: Greer Devon , Marshall Kathryn E. , Bevans Scott , Standlee Aurora , McAdams Patricia , Harsha Wayne
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Reports of patient injuries associated with videolaryngoscopy are increasing in the literature. There are a wide variety of opinions regarding both safe use of the device and patient care following aerodigestive tract injury.

We have seen an increase in videolaryngoscopy‐associated injuries in recent years at our institution. Because of this, we wanted to determine if video‐assisted laryngoscopy presents a greater risk of injury compared with direct laryngoscopy. Furthermore, we wanted to determine if there were patient and/or surgical factors that could contribute to patient injuries following videolaryngoscopy.

Data Sources

MAMC anesthesia records, PubMed, Ovid.

Review Methods

We compared rates of injury between videolaryngoscopy to direct laryngoscopy at our institution by searching anesthesia records to identify laryngoscopy procedures that resulted in injury to the soft palate or oropharynx. We also identified 19 published cases in the literature, in addition to our cases, that we reviewed for patient characteristics (e.g., body mass index, age and sex, Mallampati grade), type of videolaryngoscope, location of injury, and type of repair (if any) required.

Results

At our institution, we have a statistically higher rate of injury using videolaryngoscopy compared to direct laryngoscopy. Our data also indicate that women are more commonly injured during videolaryngoscope intubation than men. The right tonsillar pillars and soft palate are the most frequently injured, with through‐and‐through perforation of the soft tissues being the most common type of injury. The most common repair of injuries required simple closures, and long‐term harm was very rare.

Conclusion

Our data suggests that using video‐assisted laryngoscopy for intubation puts a patient at significantly greater risk for injury compared to direct laryngoscopy. Laryngoscope, 2016 127:349–353, 2017
Oxide phases and residual stresses in scales formed at early stages of oxidation of β‐NiAl at 1473 K and the effect of implanted yttrium
Authors: Jedliński J. , Gołdyn R. , Grosseau‐Poussard J.‐L. , Bonnet G. , Kowalski K. , Bernasik A. , Smoła G. , Dąbek J. , Nocuń M.
Published: June 2016

Oxide phases formed at early oxidation stages on unmodified and yttrium‐implanted β‐NiAl intermetallic compound were studied with the aid of photoluminescence spectroscopy in scales developed at 1473 K for oxidation periods of up to 4 h. Two‐stage‐oxidation exposures with 18O2‐tracer were applied. The PLS method was also used to assess the residual stresses in α‐Al2O3 scale at consecutive stages of its development. It was found that scale formation occurs in a very local way, related to inhomogeneous distribution of Cr in substrate: sometimes distances as short as 10–15 μm were sufficient to observe entirely different phases in the scale. In general, implanted yttrium was found to retard the formation of a stable and protective layer of α‐Al2O3. Oxidation for 4 h was necessary for no transient aluminum oxides (mostly θ and/or δ) to be detected, while on non‐implanted material they were not found after only 26 min exposure. Only compressive stresses were found in α‐alumina scales. They were rather high, reaching even 5 GPa. However, their dependence on the regions in the scale and the scale evolution stage was observed. The results indicate that patches frequently observed in scales on β‐NiAl are regions where the phase transformation of transient aluminas to the α phase occurs preferentially. Ridges, which fill the transformation‐related cracks, consisted only of α‐Al2O3. Combination of these results with those obtained using SIMS distribution analyses of oxygen isotopes as well as with SEM/EDX, enabled very precise conclusions to be inferred concerning the scale growth mechanism. In particular, the local nature of the scale development can be described in more detail.
Diffusion and lifetime modeling for slurry aluminide coating on P92 at 650 °C with a computational and experimental approach
Authors: Krukovskyi P. , Metel M. , Agüero A. , Muelas R. , Kolarik V.
Published: June 2016

The present work is devoted to the estimation of the coating lifetime by modeling aluminum diffusion in a slurry‐applied coating on P92 at 650 °C employing the computational and experimental approach. This coating protects ferritic steels from both steam and fireside corrosion on new coal‐fired power plants operating under super‐supercritical steam parameters. The computer model of the diffusion and oxidation based on a numerical solving of the differential equations of diffusion was developed, and its unknown parameters, namely the concentration‐dependent aluminum diffusion coefficient, were identified from relatively short‐term experimental tests up to 8000 h using the inverse problem solution approach. The model was then used for coating lifetime estimation and furthermore for obtaining the dependency of the lifetime on the initial coating thickness and on the critical beneath‐surface aluminum content defined for the estimation. The resulting simulated concentration profiles were compared with experimental data yielding an adequate fit.
Geometry and spectrum of rapidly branching graphs
Authors: Keller Matthias , Münch Florentin , Pogorzelski Felix
Published: June 2016

We study graphs whose vertex degree tends to infinity and which are, therefore, called rapidly branching. We prove spectral estimates, discreteness of spectrum, first order eigenvalue and Weyl asymptotics solely in terms of the vertex degree growth. The underlying techniques are estimates on the isoperimetric constant. Furthermore, we give lower volume growth bounds and we provide a new criterion for stochastic incompleteness.