bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoinduced C—I bond homolysis of 5-iodouracil: A singlet predissociation pathway
Authors: Dai Xiaojuan , Song Di , Liu Kunhui , Su Hongmei
Published: January 2017

5-Iodouracil (5-IU) can be integrated into DNA and acts as a UV sensitive chromophore suitable for probing DNA structure and DNA-protein interactions based on the photochemical reactions of 5-IU. Here, we perform joint studies of time-resolved Fourier transform infrared (TR-FTIR) spectroscopy and ab initio calculations to examine the state-specific photochemical reaction mechanisms of the 5-IU. The fact that uracil (U) is observed in TR-FTIR spectra after 266 nm irradiation of 5-IU in acetonitrile and ascribed to the product of hydrogen abstraction by the uracil-5-yl radical (U·) provides experimental evidence for the C—I bond homolysis of 5-IU. The excited state potential energy curves are calculated with the complete active space second-order perturbation//complete active space self-consistent field method, from which a singlet predissociation mechanism is elucidated. It is shown that the initially populated 1(ππ*) state crosses with the repulsive 1(πσ*) or 1(nIσ*) state, through which 5-IU undergoes dissociation to the fragments of (U·) radical and iodine atom. In addition, the possibility of intersystem crossing (ISC) is evaluated based on the calculated vertical excitation energies. Although a probable ISC from 1(ππ*) state to 3(nOπ*) and then to the lowest triplet 3(ππ*) could occur in principal, there is little possibility for the excited state populations bifurcating to triplet manifold, given that the singlet state predissociation follows repulsive potential and should occur within dozens to hundreds of femtoseconds. Such low population of triplet states means that the contribution of triplet state to photoreactions of 5-IU should be quite minor. These results demonstrate clearly a physical picture of C—I bond homolysis of 5-IU and provide mechanistic illuminations to the interesting applications of 5-IU as photoprobes and in radiotherapy of cancer.
Deformation behavior of titanate nanotubes subjected to high pressure
Authors: Ojeda-Galván H. J. , Rodríguez A. G. , Santos-López I. A. , Mendoza-Cruz R. , Yacamán M. J. , Handy B. E.
Published: January 2017

Nano-sized titania (anatase) and sodium and potassium titanate nanotubes were studied via in situ Raman spectroscopy at hydrostatic pressures up to 6 GPa. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy shows a uniform dispersion of sodium and potassium cations in the nanotubes. The effect of the pressure was observed by significant shifts in the Raman band structure of nano-sized anatase crystals and nanotube titanate. In nano-particulate anatase, the phonon frequencies (143, 395, 517, and 639 cm−1) increase linearly with pressure. In contrast, the upward frequency shifts in the sodium titanate nanotubes (NaTNT) and potassium-modified nanotubes (NaTNT+K) occur in a stepwise fashion. These stepwise changes occur in the nanotube samples between 2 and 4 GPa (ambient pressure phonon bands in NaTNT at 274, 444, 650, and 906 cm−1) and between 4.5 and 5.5 GPa, (phonons 273 cm−1 and 436 cm−1 in NaTNT+K at an ambient pressure). Post-pressure high-resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis shows evidence of nanotube distortions and a 5% contraction in the interlaminar spacing of both NaTNT and NaTNT+K.
Coprimeness-preserving non-integrable extension to the two-dimensional discrete Toda lattice equation
Authors: Kamiya Ryo , Kanki Masataka , Mase Takafumi , Tokihiro Tetsuji
Published: January 2017

We introduce a so-called coprimeness-preserving non-integrable extension to the two-dimensional Toda lattice equation. We believe that this equation is the first example of such discrete equations defined over a three-dimensional lattice. We prove that all the iterates of the equation are irreducible Laurent polynomials of the initial data and that every pair of two iterates is co-prime, which indicate confined singularities of the equation. By reducing the equation to two- or one-dimensional lattices, we obtain coprimeness-preserving non-integrable extensions to the one-dimensional Toda lattice equation and the Somos-4 recurrence.
Equation of state and transport properties of warm dense aluminum by ab initio and chemical model simulations
Authors: Fu Zhijian , Quan Weilong , Zhang Wei , Li Zhiguo , Zheng Jun , Gu Yunjun , Chen Qifeng
Published: January 2017

We have performed the ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations for aluminum in the density and temperature range of 2.35–7.00 g cm−3 and 1000–70 000 K, respectively. The equation-of-state data obtained from the AIMD simulations are consistent with the available experimental and theoretical results. The electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity obtained by combining the Kubo-Greenwood formula with the AIMD simulations are also in agreement with the available experimental and theoretical results. The electrical conductivity calculated by a linear mixing rule (LMR) in the chemical picture provides appropriate although relatively underestimated values compared to those based on AIMD simulation. Both LMR and AIMD simulations demonstrate that a metal to nonmetal transition takes place at a temperature less than 30 000 K. The thermal power calculated shows not the direct signal connecting with the metal-nonmetal transition. The coupling parameter, degeneracy parameter, and fractions of warm dense aluminum are discussed systematically. Comparison of the simulation results with currently available theoretical and experimental data for warm dense aluminum is employed to evaluate the appropriate scope for currently available theoretical models, which will provide a useful guide for future experiments.
Transparent conducting oxide electro-optic modulators on silicon platforms: A comprehensive study based on the drift-diffusion semiconductor model
Authors: Sinatkas Georgios , Pitilakis Alexandros , Zografopoulos Dimitrios C. , Beccherelli Romeo , Kriezis Emmanouil E.
Published: January 2017

Electro-optic waveguide modulators exploiting the carrier-induced epsilon-near-zero effect in transparent conducting oxides are comprehensively studied and evaluated using a rigorous multi-physics modeling framework. The examined amplitude modulators integrate indium tin oxide with two representative examples of the silicon-on-insulator technology, the silicon-rib and silicon-slot platform, with the latter design exhibiting superior performance, featuring μm modulation lengths, switching speeds exceeding 100 GHz, and a sub-pJ per bit of energy consumption. The effect of free carriers is rigorously introduced by combining the drift-diffusion model for the description of the carrier dynamics with near-infrared carrier-dependent permittivity models, leading to a seamless and physically consistent integration of solid-state physics and Maxwell wave theory on a unified finite-element platform.
Optimization of liquid crystal devices based on weakly conductive layers for lensing and beam steering
Authors: Beeckman Jeroen , Nys Inge , Willekens Oliver , Neyts Kristiaan
Published: January 2017

Liquid crystals are mostly known for their use in displays, but over the past decade these materials have been applied in a number of other devices such as tunable lenses or beam steering devices. A common technique to realize a gradual electric field profile as is required to obtain a gradual refractive index profile in these applications is the use of weakly conductive materials. The weakly conductive layers are able to spread the voltage profile which is applied through well-conductive electrodes at the side of the weakly conductive layer. The simulation and design of such structures is not trivial because two or three dimensional quasi-static electric field profiles need to be calculated. This is due to the fact that the resistivity of the conductive layers and the dielectric properties of the liquid crystal are coupled. An exact solution requires solving a number of coupled differential equations. In this paper, we develop a model to simulate the RC-effects with an approximate model.
Analytical equation for the motion picture response time of display devices
Authors: Peng Fenglin , Chen Haiwei , Gou Fangwang , Lee Yun-Han , Wand Michael , Li Ming-Chun , Lee Seok-Lyul , Wu Shin-Tson
Published: January 2017

Motion picture response time (MPRT) affects the image blurs of thin-film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal displays and organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays. We derive an analytical equation to correlate MPRT with the liquid crystal (LC)/OLED response time and TFT frame rate. Good agreement between our physical model and experimental results is obtained. Based on our model, we find that if the LC's response time is 2 ms or less, then its MPRT is nearly the same as that of OLED, even if OLED's response time is assumed to be 0. To achieve MPRT comparable to OLEDs, we developed an ultra-low viscosity LC mixture for the vertical alignment mode operation. The measured average gray-to-gray response time is 0.93 ms, and its MPRT at 120 Hz is 6.88 ms. In comparison, OLED's MPRT is 6.67 ms. To further shorten MPRT, we could either increase the frame rate or reduce the backlight duty ratio. Pros and cons of these approaches are discussed.
Extremely low amplified spontaneous emission threshold and blue electroluminescence from a spin-coated octafluorene neat film
Authors: Kim D.-H. , Sandanayaka A. S. D. , Zhao L. , Pitrat D. , Mulatier J. C. , Matsushima T. , Andraud C. , Ribierre J. C. , Adachi C.
Published: January 2017

We report on the photophysical, amplified spontaneous emission (ASE), and electroluminescence properties of a blue-emitting octafluorene derivative in spin-coated films. The neat film shows an extremely low ASE threshold of 90 nJ/cm2, which is related to its high photoluminescence quantum yield of 87% and its large radiative decay rate of 1.7 × 109 s−1. Low-threshold organic distributed feedback semiconductor lasers and fluorescent organic light-emitting diodes with a maximum external quantum efficiency as high as 4.4% are then demonstrated, providing evidence that this octafluorene derivative is a promising candidate for organic laser applications.
Revealing nonclassicality beyond Gaussian states via a single marginal distribution
Authors: Park Jiyong , Lu Yao , Lee Jaehak , Shen Yangchao , Zhang Kuan , Zhang Shuaining , Zubairy Muhammad Suhail , Kim Kihwan , Nha Hyunchul
Published: January 2017

Significance

Quantum states possess nonclassical properties inaccessible from classical physics, providing a profound basis of quantum physics and a crucial resource for quantum information technology. We propose a general framework to manifest nonclassicality via single marginal distributions, unlike quantum-state tomography using many marginal distributions, applicable to a broad range of quantum systems. Our approach provides a fundamentally unique insight showing how partial information on a quantum state can be sufficient to confirm nonclassicality and a practical efficiency, yielding conclusive evidence of nonclassicality by directly analyzing experimental data without numerical optimization. Remarkably, our method works regardless of measurement axis for all non-Gaussian states of finite dimension. We also experimentally demonstrate our framework, using motional states of a trapped ion.
La traduction dictée interactive et sa nécessaire intégration à la formation des traducteurs
Authors: Zapata Julián , Quirion Jean
Published: January 2017

Les technologies langagières font partie intégrante du paysage traductionnel depuis bon nombre d’années; elles ont indéniablement eu jusqu’ici un effet marqué sur l’exercice et l’enseignement de la traduction professionnelle. Or, parmi ces innovations technologiques, il y en a une faisant progressivement son apparition dans le secteur traductionnel et ayant le potentiel d’influencer considérablement le travail journalier des traducteurs professionnels dans un proche avenir : la reconnaissance vocale (RV). Le présent article aborde l’intérêt et les défis pédagogiques inhérents à l’intégration de la RV à la pratique traductive. D’abord, un bref exposé sur la RV et sur la place que lui accorde la traduction (dans la recherche, la pratique et l’enseignement) sera effectué, puis le concept de traduction dictée interactive (TDI) sera défini. La nature et les modalités de la traduction à vue (TAV) seront subséquemment décrites. Finalement sera justifiée l’intégration de la TDI à la formation des traducteurs professionnels.
À la recherche des germes de la modernité chinoise
Authors: Cao Danhong , Jun Xu
Published: January 2017

Dans l’histoire de la traduction en Chine, la période de la fin de la dynastie Ming et du début de la dynastie Qing est considérée comme une des quatre grandes périodes où abondent les activités de traduction. Cette période a surtout vu l’arrivée de nombreux jésuites de l’Occident et l’apparition de quantité de traductions scientifiques et technologiques qui couvraient un vaste champ de disciplines, ce qui l’a distinguée des trois autres périodes. Ces traductions ont résulté des facteurs économique, socio-culturel, psychologique, linguistique, etc. et ont à leur tour profondément marqué la société moderne chinoise. Étant donné l’importance des activités de traduction de cette époque-là pour l’Histoire chinoise, cet article essaie d’y jeter un coup d’oeil rétrospectif et d’en faire une brève présentation en dégageant les spécificités de ces activités, les raisons tant superficielles que profondes du boom de la traduction et les influences de cette dernière sur la société moderne chinoise.
Structure of numerals and classifiers in Chinese
Authors: Her One-Soon
Published: January 2017

It is controversial whether a classifier (C) or measure word (M) in Chinese forms a constituent first with Num (numeral) or N in a [Num C/M N] phrase. This paper reviews evidence for the [Num C/M] constituency from modern Chinese and then provides evidence from historical and typological perspectives. Under the [Num C/M] constituency, not only the C/M word orders attested in Chinese history, but also all those attested elsewhere, can be straightforwardly accounted for by the head parameter, while such simplicity is unattainable under the [C/M N] constituency. In addition, fresh evidence is obtained from the internal word order within a complex numeral; e.g.san-shi‘30’ is base-final, withn(3) and base (10) entering into a multiplicative function,3×10. The same multiplicative function exists between Num and C/M, e.g.san-duo hua‘3 C flower’ = 3×1 flower, andsan-da hua‘3 dozen flower’ = 3×12 flower. C/M and bases are thus unified as multiplicands, an insight further supported by the consistent correlation between thebase-final order and the C/M-final order throughout the history of Chinese. A closer examination of the 103 classifier languages inGreenberg (1990[1978])further reveals that, among the 52 languages whose numeral systems and C/M word orders can be obtained, the synchronization between the numeral base and C/M is nearly universal. The base-C/M unification as multiplicands and base-C/M synchronization in word order strongly suggest that Num and C/M form a single constituent.
Proto‑Tai reconstruction of ‘maternal grandmother’ revisited
Authors: Liao Hanbo
Published: January 2017

The word ‘maternal grandmother’ presents irregular modern forms in Tai languages. It is ta:jB1
in most Northern Tai (NT) varieties, ta:jA1
in most Central Tai (CT) varieties, na:jA2
in most Southwestern Tai (SWT) varieties, and ja:jA2
in Standard Thai. Li (1971) reconstructs the proto-form of this word as *na:jA
, positing that the later forms changed by analogy with semantically similar words. This paper discusses two alternative hypotheses *ta:jA
and *ta:jB
, and argues that the proto-form was *ta:jB
. The analysis indicates that the sound changes of this word in Tai languages are caused by the “contamination” in kinship terms with paired semantic contents in CT/SWT, and by dissimilation from the otherwise homophonous word ‘to die’ in SWT. As a result, the proto-form of ‘maternal grandmother’ *ta:jB
is preserved in the vast majority of NT and a cluster of CT. In most CT/SWT the original *B tone changed to *A tone, and then in SWT the initial *t- underwent further change to *n- in order to avoid homophony with the taboo word ‘to die’. This issue of homophony arose only in this branch due to the merger of *t- and *tr- (or *p.t-). This proto-form *ta:jB
is supported by historical evidence and other non-Tai languages in the Daic family. Other exceptional irregularities in some CT languages are also discussed as they are crucial to the determination of the *ta:jB
hypothesis. Analogous examples from several Tai varieties also support the occurrence of aberrant development due to taboo avoidance.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of Cr12MoV by ultrasonic vibration-assisted laser surface melting
Authors: Zhou Jianzhong , Xu Jiale , Huang Shu , Hu Zengrong , Meng Xiankai , Fan Yujie
Published: January 2017

The effects of laser surface melting assisted by ultrasonic vibration on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Cr12MoV were investigated. Results indicated that the original coarse columnar dendrite can be converted into a fine dendritic and equiaxed. The average microhardness increase from 389HV0.2 to 427HV0.2 resulted from the effect of grain refinement. The friction coefficient was lower than the melted layer without ultrasonic vibration and substrate. Under the same experimental conditions, the width and depth of wear scar were decreased by 19% and 25% than that of without ultrasonic vibration, respectively. The wear mechanism from severe adhesive wear into slight abrasive wear under the action of ultrasonic vibration. Experimental results revealed that melted layer fabricated by ultrasonic vibration exhibit finer and more uniform microstructure as well as superior tribological properties.
Application and exploration of friction stir welding/processing in plastics industry
Authors: Gao Jicheng , Cui Xixi , Liu Cheng , Shen Yifu
Published: January 2017

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a green, pollution-free, low-energy technology with high manoeuvrability. Thermoplastic plastics have extensive applications in the present industry because they offer excellent physical and corrosion properties, high degree freedom of processing and design. In this paper, the current state of FSW/P in plastics industry, including tool improvement, welding methods, process parameters optimisation, metal and polymer joining as well as composites fabrication, has been addressed. Although it presents a major challenge, FSW/P has a great potential to produce defect-free joint and fabricate composites in polymer materials.
Development of a Calcein Marking Technique for Juvenile Mulloway Argyrosomus japonicus to Be Used in Stock Enhancement Programs
Authors: Becker Alistair , Fielder D. Stewart , Lowry Michael B. , Taylor Matthew D.
Published: January 2017

Mulloway (also known as Japanese Meagre) Argyrosomus japonicus is an important recreational species targeted by anglers across southern Australia. This marine-spawned species recruits into estuaries as juveniles; however, there is some evidence for potential recruitment limitation arising from variable freshwater flows, which are characteristic of temperate Australian estuaries. Consequently, juvenile Mulloway are being stocked in a number of estuarine systems, and a suitable marking technique is required to distinguish stocked individuals from wild fish upon recapture. Calcein is widely used to mark the otoliths of freshwater fish species, yet there is little evidence of its suitability to mark marine species. We evaluated the suitability of calcein as a marking method using a combination of immersion times (6, 12, and 24 h) and calcein concentrations (0 [control], 100, 150, and 200 mg/L). Mulloway otoliths were found to autofluoresce at the same wavelengths as calcein, but despite this, a combination of the longest immersion time and highest concentration (24 h and 200 mg/L) produced marks that were significantly stronger than unmarked control otoliths. Assuming the intensity of calcein marks does not decline over time, such a combination would be suitable for marking Mulloway for release into marine waters and may be suitable for other marine species.

Received May 15, 2016; accepted October 23, 2016 Published online January 12, 2017
Gear Comparison for Sampling Age-0 Mountain Whitefish in the Madison River, Montana
Authors: Boyer Jan K. , Guy Christopher S. , Webb Molly A. H. , Horton Travis B. , McMahon Thomas E.
Published: January 2017

The efficacy of various sampling gears for age-0 Mountain Whitefish Prosopium williamsoni is largely unknown, which makes it difficult to investigate recruitment and early life history dynamics for the species. We compared four gears: seine, backpack electrofisher, minnow trap, and lighted minnow trap. Gears were tested in backwaters, large channels, and small channels in the Madison River, Montana. No age-0 Mountain Whitefish were captured in minnow traps or lighted minnow traps. Mean CPUE of age-0 Mountain Whitefish was higher for seining (0.18 fish/m2; SD, 0.39) than for electrofishing (0.01 fish/m2; SD, 0.03), and the CV was lower for seining. A broader length distribution was sampled by seining (17–41 mm) than with electrofishing (21–36 mm). Age-0 Mountain Whitefish CPUE in seines was highest in backwaters. In channel sites, Mountain Whitefish presence was associated with areas of still or slow water ≥2 m2. Relative to the other sampling gears we evaluated, seining was the most efficient gear for sampling age-0 Mountain Whitefish in a lotic ecosystem.

Received June 19, 2016; accepted October 20, 2016 Published online January 12, 2017
Seasonal Changes in Condition of Appalachian Brook Trout
Authors: Hafs Andrew W. , Hartman Kyle J.
Published: January 2017

Reliable fish condition estimates help managers better understand ecosystem population dynamics. Therefore, our study objectives were to measure seasonal changes in percent dry weight and energy density (physiological-based measures of condition) of stream-dwelling Appalachian Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis, field-validate bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) models, and compare reliability of BIA and morphometric-based estimates of condition. Percent dry weight was highly correlated to energy density (R2 = 0.93; J/g wet weight = −1,803.5 + 286.43 ∙ [percent dry weight]), and the relationship was clearly different from those published previously for other salmonids. Significant seasonal changes in adult Brook Trout condition were observed and likely related to energy depletion from reproduction and changes in terrestrial invertebrate consumption. Adult percent dry weight peaked in early September and was lowest in February. Age-0 fish did not have large changes in measured condition between summer and winter. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was able to estimate adult mean monthly percent dry weight reliably; however, it did not appear to outperform results from relative weight (Wr). Neither Wr nor predicted percent dry weight from BIA was a reliable estimator of condition for individual adult fish. The BIA model for age-0 fish was unable to provide reliable predictions for either individual fish or monthly mean estimates, due in large part to the small range in measured condition. The BIA estimated monthly mean energy density more reliably than did Wr. Overall results of this study indicate that BIA did not perform appreciably better than Wr, which required much less effort to collect. Potential BIA model improvements may be possible by accounting for changes in skin temperature. Until improvements in the Brook Trout BIA models occur, their use should be limited to estimating mean energy density.

Received August 16, 2016; accepted October 20, 2016 Published online January 12, 2017
Localization of functional β-xylosidases, encoded by the same single gene, xlsIV (xlnD), from Aspergillus niger E-1
Authors: Inoue Kotomi , Takahashi Yui , Obara Ken , Murakami Shuichiro
Published: January 2017

Cell wall-associated β-xylosidase was isolated from Aspergillus niger E-1 and identified as XlsIV, corresponding to the extracellular enzyme XlnD reported previously. xlsIV was transcribed only in the early cultivation period. Cell wall-associated enzyme activity gradually decreased, but extracellular activity increased as the strain grew. These results indicate that XlsIV (XlnD) was secreted into culture after localizing at cell wall.
Metallurgical effects and distortions in laser welding of thin sheet steels with variations in strength
Authors: Fahlström Karl , Andersson Oscar , Karlsson Leif , Svensson Lars-Erik
Published: January 2017

Geometrical distortions occur while welding, but the understanding of how and why they occur and how to control them is limited. The relation between the weld width, weld metal volume, total energy input, width of hard zone and distortions when laser welding three different thin sheet steels with varying strength has therefore been studied. Weld metal volume and total energy input show a good correlation with distortion for one steel at a time. The best correlation with the when including all three steel grades was the width of the hard zone composed of weld metal and the martensitic area in the heat affected zone.
The prospects of phosphorene as an anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries: a fundamental study
Authors: Zhang Congyan , Yu Ming , Anderson George , Dharmasena Ruchira Ravinath , Sumanasekera Gamini
Published: January 2017

To completely understand lithium adsorption, diffusion, and capacity on the surface of phosphorene and, therefore, the prospects of phosphorene as an anode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), we carried out density-functional-theory calculations and studied the lithium adsorption energy landscape, the lithium diffusion mobility, the lithium intercalation, and the lithium capacity of phosphorene. We also carried out, for the very first time, experimental measurement of the lithium capacity of phosphorene. Our calculations show that the lithium diffusion mobility along the zigzag direction in the valley of phosphorene was about 7 to 11 orders of magnitude faster than that along the other directions, indicating its ultrafast and anisotropic diffusivity. The lithium intercalation in phosphorene was studied by considering various Li
n
P16 configurations (n = 1–16) including single-side and double-side adsorptions. We found that phosphorene could accommodate up to a ratio of one Li per P atom (i.e. Li16P16). In particular, we found that, even at a high Li concentration (e.g. x = 1 in Li
x
P), there was no lithium clustering, and the structure of phosphorene (when fractured) is reversible during lithium intercalation. The theoretical value of the lithium capacity for a monolayer phosphorene is predicted to be above 433 mAh g−1, depending on whether Li atoms are adsorbed on the single side or the double side of phosphorene. Our experimental measurement of the lithium capacity for few-layer phosphorene networks shows a reversible stable value of ∼453 mAh g−1 even after 50 cycles. Our results clearly show that phosphorene, compared to graphene and other two-dimensional materials, has great promise as a novel anode material for high-performance LIBs.
Functional redundancy and nonredundancy between two Troponin C isoforms inDrosophilaadult muscles
Authors: Chechenova Maria B. , Maes Sara , Oas Sandy T. , Nelson Cloyce , Kiani Kaveh G. , Bryantsev Anton L. , Cripps Richard M.
Published: January 2017

We investigated the functional overlap of two muscle Troponin C (TpnC) genes that are expressed in the adult fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster: TpnC4 is predominantly expressed in the indirect flight muscles (IFMs), whereas TpnC41C is the main isoform in the tergal depressor of the trochanter muscle (TDT; jump muscle). Using CRISPR/Cas9, we created a transgenic line with a homozygous deletion of TpnC41C and compared its phenotype to a line lacking functional TpnC4. We found that the removal of either of these genes leads to expression of the other isoform in both muscle types. The switching between isoforms occurs at the transcriptional level and involves minimal enhancers located upstream of the transcription start points of each gene. Functionally, the two TpnC isoforms were not equal. Although ectopic TpnC4 in TDT muscles was able to maintain jumping ability, TpnC41C in IFMs could not effectively support flying. Simultaneous functional disruption of both TpnC genes resulted in jump-defective and flightless phenotypes of the survivors, as well as abnormal sarcomere organization. These results indicated that TpnC is required for myofibril assembly, and that there is functional specialization among TpnC isoforms in Drosophila.
The secretory pathway at 50: a golden anniversary for some momentous grains of silver
Authors: Matlin Karl S. , Caplan Michael J.
Published: January 2017

The secretory pathway along which newly synthesized secretory and membrane proteins traffic through the cell was revealed in two articles published 50 years ago. This discovery was the culmination of decades of effort to unite the power of biochemical and morphological methodologies in order to elucidate the dynamic nature of the cell’s biosynthetic machinery. The secretory pathway remains a central paradigm of modern cell biology. Its elucidation 50 years ago inspired tremendous multidisciplinary and on-going efforts to understand the machinery that makes it run, the adaptations that permit it to serve the needs of specialized cell types, and the pathological consequences that arise when it is perturbed.
Ciliary entry of KIF17 is dependent on its binding to the IFT-B complex via IFT46–IFT56 as well as on its nuclear localization signal
Authors: Funabashi Teruki , Katoh Yohei , Michisaka Saki , Terada Masaya , Sugawa Maho , Nakayama Kazuhisa
Published: January 2017

Cilia function as cellular antennae to sense and transduce extracellular signals. A number of proteins are specifically localized in cilia. Anterograde and retrograde ciliary protein trafficking are mediated by the IFT-B and IFT-A complexes in concert with kinesin-2 and dynein-2 motors, respectively. However, the role of KIF17, a homodimeric kinesin-2 protein, in protein trafficking has not been fully understood in vertebrate cilia. In this study, we demonstrated, by using the visible immunoprecipitation assay, that KIF17 interacts with the IFT46–IFT56 dimer in the IFT-B complex through its C-terminal sequence located immediately upstream of the nuclear localization signal (NLS). We then showed that KIF17 reaches the ciliary tip independently of its motor domain and requires IFT-B binding for its entry into cilia rather than for its intraciliary trafficking. We further showed that KIF17 ciliary entry depends not only on its binding to IFT-B but also on its NLS, to which importin α proteins bind. Taking the results together, we conclude that in mammalian cells, KIF17 is dispensable for ciliogenesis and IFT-B trafficking but requires IFT-B, as well as its NLS, for its ciliary entry across the permeability barrier located at the ciliary base.
Prenatal exposures and the development of childhood wheezing illnesses
Authors: Rosas-Salazar Christian , Hartert Tina V.
Published: January 2017

Purpose of review

To critically evaluate and summarize studies published between July 2015 and June 2016 linking prenatal exposures and the onset of childhood wheezing illnesses and to discuss future research directions in this field.

Recent findings

The aggregated evidence indicates a consistent detrimental effect of prenatal exposure to parental smoking, outdoor air pollution, and maternal stress on childhood wheezing illnesses. Less consistent evidence suggests an adverse impact of maternal obesity during pregnancy and prenatal exposure to antibiotics on these outcomes. There is insufficient evidence to support an association between in-utero exposure to acetaminophen or prenatal levels of specific nutrients (such as vitamin D, folic acid, or polyunsaturated fatty acids) and childhood wheezing illnesses.

Several common potentially modifiable prenatal exposures appear to be consistently associated with childhood wheezing illnesses (e.g. parental smoking, outdoor air pollution, and maternal stress). However, the effect of many other prenatal exposures on the onset of childhood wheezing illnesses remains unclear. The existing scientific evidence from the past year does not allow us to make any new recommendations on primary prevention measures. Intervention studies will best demonstrate whether changing the prenatal environment can prevent childhood wheezing illnesses and asthma.
An Anesthesiologist’s Perspective on the History of Basic Airway Management
Authors: Matioc Adrian A.
Published: January 2017

This second installment of the history of basic airway management covers the early—artisanal—years of anesthesia from 1846 to 1904. Anesthesia was invented and practiced as a supporting specialty in the context of great surgical and medical advances. The current-day anesthesia provider tends to equate the history of airway management with the history of intubation, but for the first 58 yr after the introduction of ether anesthesia, airway management was provided by basic airway techniques with or without the use of a face mask. The jaw thrust and chin lift were described in the artisanal years and used primarily with inhalation anesthesia in the spontaneously breathing patient and less often with negative-pressure ventilation in the apneic victim. Positive-pressure ventilation and intubation stayed at the fringes of medical practice, and airway techniques and devices were developed by trial and error. At the beginning of the 20th century, airway management and anesthetic techniques lagged behind surgical requirements.
Cardiac Calcium Release Channel (Ryanodine Receptor 2) Regulation by Halogenated Anesthetics
Authors: Laver Derek R. , Attia John , Oldmeadow Christopher , Quail Anthony W.
Published: January 2017

Background

Halogenated anesthetics activate cardiac ryanodine receptor 2–mediated sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release, leading to sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ depletion, reduced cardiac function, and providing cell protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury. Anesthetic activation of ryanodine receptor 2 is poorly defined, leaving aspects of the protective mechanism uncertain.

Methods

Ryanodine receptor 2 from the sheep heart was incorporated into artificial lipid bilayers, and their gating properties were measured in response to five halogenated anesthetics.

Results

Each anesthetic rapidly and reversibly activated ryanodine receptor 2, but only from the cytoplasmic side. Relative activation levels were as follows: halothane (approximately 4-fold; n = 8), desflurane and enflurane (approximately 3-fold,n = 9), and isoflurane and sevoflurane (approximately 1.5-fold, n = 7, 10). Half-activating concentrations (K

a
) were in the range 1.3 to 2.1 mM (1.4 to 2.6 minimum alveolar concentration [MAC]) with the exception of isoflurane (5.3 mM, 6.6 minimum alveolar concentration). Dantrolene (10 μM with 100 nM calmodulin) inhibited ryanodine receptor 2 by 40% but did not alter the K

a
for halothane activation. Halothane potentiated luminal and cytoplasmic Ca2+ activation of ryanodine receptor 2 but had no effect on Mg2+ inhibition. Halothane activated ryanodine receptor 2 in the absence and presence (2 mM) of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Adenosine, a competitive antagonist to ATP activation of ryanodine receptor 2, did not antagonize halothane activation in the absence of ATP.

Conclusions

At clinical concentrations (1 MAC), halothane desflurane and enflurane activated ryanodine receptor 2, whereas isoflurane and sevoflurane were ineffective. Dantrolene inhibition of ryanodine receptor 2 substantially negated the activating effects of anesthetics. Halothane acted independently of the adenine nucleotide–binding site on ryanodine receptor 2. The previously observed adenosine antagonism of halothane activation of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release was due to competition between adenosine and ATP, rather than between halothane and ATP.
Sound Localization and Speech Perception in Noise of Pediatric Cochlear Implant Recipients: Bimodal Fitting Versus Bilateral Cochlear Implants
Authors: Choi Ji Eun , Moon Il Joon , Kim Eun Yeon , Park Hee-Sung , Kim Byung Kil , Chung Won-Ho , Cho Yang-Sun , Brown Carolyn J. , Hong Sung Hwa
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare binaural performance of auditory localization task and speech perception in babble measure between children who use a cochlear implant (CI) in one ear and a hearing aid (HA) in the other (bimodal fitting) and those who use bilateral CIs.

Design:

Thirteen children (mean age ± SD = 10 ± 2.9 years) with bilateral CIs and 19 children with bimodal fitting were recruited to participate. Sound localization was assessed using a 13-loudspeaker array in a quiet sound-treated booth. Speakers were placed in an arc from −90° azimuth to +90° azimuth (15° interval) in horizontal plane. To assess the accuracy of sound location identification, we calculated the absolute error in degrees between the target speaker and the response speaker during each trial. The mean absolute error was computed by dividing the sum of absolute errors by the total number of trials. We also calculated the hemifield identification score to reflect the accuracy of right/left discrimination. Speech-in-babble perception was also measured in the sound field using target speech presented from the front speaker. Eight-talker babble was presented in the following four different listening conditions: from the front speaker (0°), from one of the two side speakers (+90° or −90°), from both side speakers (±90°). Speech, spatial, and quality questionnaire was administered.

Results:

When the two groups of children were directly compared with each other, there was no significant difference in localization accuracy ability or hemifield identification score under binaural condition. Performance in speech perception test was also similar to each other under most babble conditions. However, when the babble was from the first device side (CI side for children with bimodal stimulation or first CI side for children with bilateral CIs), speech understanding in babble by bilateral CI users was significantly better than that by bimodal listeners. Speech, spatial, and quality scores were comparable with each other between the two groups.

Conclusions:

Overall, the binaural performance was similar to each other between children who are fit with two CIs (CI + CI) and those who use bimodal stimulation (HA + CI) in most conditions. However, the bilateral CI group showed better speech perception than the bimodal CI group when babble was from the first device side (first CI side for bilateral CI users or CI side for bimodal listeners). Therefore, if bimodal performance is significantly below the mean bilateral CI performance on speech perception in babble, these results suggest that a child should be considered to transit from bimodal stimulation to bilateral CIs.
Benefits of Music Training for Perception of Emotional Speech Prosody in Deaf Children With Cochlear Implants
Authors: Good Arla , Gordon Karen A. , Papsin Blake C. , Nespoli Gabe , Hopyan Talar , Peretz Isabelle , Russo Frank A.
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

Children who use cochlear implants (CIs) have characteristic pitch processing deficits leading to impairments in music perception and in understanding emotional intention in spoken language. Music training for normal-hearing children has previously been shown to benefit perception of emotional prosody. The purpose of the present study was to assess whether deaf children who use CIs obtain similar benefits from music training. We hypothesized that music training would lead to gains in auditory processing and that these gains would transfer to emotional speech prosody perception.

Design:

Study participants were 18 child CI users (ages 6 to 15). Participants received either 6 months of music training (i.e., individualized piano lessons) or 6 months of visual art training (i.e., individualized painting lessons). Measures of music perception and emotional speech prosody perception were obtained pre-, mid-, and post-training. The Montreal Battery for Evaluation of Musical Abilities was used to measure five different aspects of music perception (scale, contour, interval, rhythm, and incidental memory). The emotional speech prosody task required participants to identify the emotional intention of a semantically neutral sentence under audio-only and audiovisual conditions.

Results:

Music training led to improved performance on tasks requiring the discrimination of melodic contour and rhythm, as well as incidental memory for melodies. These improvements were predominantly found from mid- to post-training. Critically, music training also improved emotional speech prosody perception. Music training was most advantageous in audio-only conditions. Art training did not lead to the same improvements.

Conclusions:

Music training can lead to improvements in perception of music and emotional speech prosody, and thus may be an effective supplementary technique for supporting auditory rehabilitation following cochlear implantation.
K-Wire Technique for the Removal of Uncemented Femoral Stem in Revision THA
Authors: Hafez Mahmoud A.
Published: January 2017

In this work, K wires were used for 5 patients undergoing revision total hip arthroplasty to remove well-fixed, uncemented femoral stem without osteotomy. The technique was successful and considered to be safer and more economic than osteotomy with shorter operative time and easier surgical set up.
It Is Just Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder…or Is It?
Authors: Won Dana C. , Guilleminault Christian , Koltai Peter J. , Quo Stacey D. , Stein Martin T. , Loe Irene M.
Published: January 2017

CASE:

Carly is a 5-year-old girl who presents for an interdisciplinary evaluation due to behaviors at school and home suggestive of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Parent report of preschool teacher concerns was consistent with ADHD. Psychological testing showed verbal, visual-spatial, and fluid reasoning IQ scores in the average range; processing speed and working memory were below average. Carly's behavior improved when her mother left the room, and she was attentive during testing with a psychologist. Tests of executive function (EF) skills showed mixed results. Working memory was in the borderline range, although scores for response inhibition and verbal fluency were average. Parent ratings of ADHD symptoms and EF difficulties were elevated.

Carly's parents recently separated; she now lives with her mother and sees her father on weekends. Multiple caregivers with inconsistent approaches to discipline assist with child care while her mother works at night as a medical assistant. Family history is positive for ADHD and learning problems in her father. Medical history is unremarkable. Review of systems is significant for nightly mouth breathing and snoring, but no night waking, bruxism, or daytime sleepiness. She has enlarged tonsils and a high-arched palate on physical examination.

At a follow-up visit, parent rating scales are consistent with ADHD-combined type; teacher rating scales support ADHD hyperactive-impulsive type. Snoring has persisted. A sleep study indicated obstructive sleep apnea. After adenotonsillectomy, Carly had significant improvement in ADHD symptoms. She developed recurrence of behavior problems 1 year after the surgery.
INTERNAL ASPIRATION UNDER PERFLUOROCARBON LIQUID FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF LARGE MACULAR HOLES
Authors: Ohana Oded , Barak Adiel , Schwartz Shulamit
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To report the outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy with internal aspiration under perfluorocarbon liquid for large macular holes (MH).

Methods:

Retrospective consecutive case series of patients with large (>400 µm) MH. All treated were with pars plana vitrectomy, internal limiting membrane peeling, internal fluid aspiration under perfluorocarbon liquid, and gas/oil tamponade. Outcomes included closure rate and visual acuity at 6 months.

Results:

Twenty eyes of 20 patients were included. Mean age of patients was 67.6 ± 7.3 years. Mean MH size was 609.4 ± 154.7 μm. Mean symptoms duration was 9.05 ± 7.3 months. Unfavorable prognostic factors included chronic MHs (≥4 months) in 15 eyes (75%), refractory MH in 6 eyes (30%), and poor initial visual acuity (≤20/200 logarithm of minimal angle of resolution) in 18 eyes (90%). Gas tamponade was used in 18 eyes (90%). Nineteen MHs (95%) had closed after a single operation. Two (10.5%) had Type-II closure. Mean visual acuity improved significantly from 20/330 to 20/140 Snellen acuity (1.22 ± 0.31–0.85 ± 0.35 logarithm of minimal angle of resolution; P < 0.001). Fifteen eyes (75%) had visual acuity improvement of more than 0.2 logarithm of minimal angle of resolution. Thirteen eyes (65%) achieved visual acuity better than 20/200.

Conclusion:

Pars plana vitrectomy combined with internal fluid aspiration under perfluorocarbon liquid is an effective and safe surgical technique for the management of large MH. This innovative technique offers improved closure rates and visual acuity results.
PERIPHERAL RETINOSCHISIS IN INTERMEDIATE UVEITIS
Authors: Pichi Francesco , Srivastava Sunil K. , Nucci Paolo , Baynes Kimberly , Neri Piergiorgio , Lowder Careen Y.
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To examine cases of intermediate uveitis complicated by retinoschisis and review the pathogenetic hypothesis.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of patients with intermediate uveitis. Data were collected at three uveitis referral centers on sex, age, best-corrected visual acuity, degree of vitritis, extent and location of snowbanking, presence of hard exudates, neovascularization, vitreous hemorrhage, and extent and nature of retinal elevations.

Results:

A series of 23 eyes of 20 patients were examined; patient's age ranged from 10 years to 70 years and follow-up period from 8 months to 6 years. Twenty-two eyes had retinoschisis (95.6%), and 1 had retinoschisis associated with serous retinal detachment (4.3%). Extensive inferior pars plana exudates with snowbanking were present in 12 eyes (52.2%), whereas 3 eyes had inferior snowballs over the elevated retina. Neovascularization of the vitreous base accompanied by vitreous hemorrhage occurred in one eye. There was no coexisting macular pathology in 16 eyes, whereas 4 eyes had cystoid macular edema.

Conclusion:

The appearance of peripheral retinoschisis in this series of uncontrolled intermediate uveitis patients seems to be secondary to a complex balance between the persistent fluorescein leakage, a subclinical peripheral ischemia, and the constant low-grade vitreous inflammation that causes vitreous shrinkage and traction. The results of this study suggest that the absence of macroscopic changes in the retina does not preclude ischemic peripheral abnormalities, and the detection of a peripheral retinoschisis in an intermediate uveitis patient with active fluorescein leakage must suggest the need for a more aggressive form of treatment despite the good visual acuity.