bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New insights into the spermatogenesis of the black tiger prawn, Penaeus monodon
Authors: Feng Tianyi , Paterson Brian , Johnston Stephen D.
Published: February 2017

This study reports a comprehensive description of penaeid spermatogenesis (Penaeus monodon) by light and transmission electron microscopy. A conspicuous characteristic of spermatocytogenesis was a ring‐like structure with high electron‐density adjacent to the nucleus of a primary spermatocyte. During the spermiogenesis from stage I (StI) to stage VI spermatid (StVI), the formation of the acrosome and decondensation of the nucleus were the most notable morphological transformations. StIs were small and compact and they were contained in the syncytia. In the cytoplasm of StII, mitochondrion‐like bodies (MLB) participated the extension of perinuclear multi‐layered lamellae. The association of MLBs and endoplasmic reticula appeared to contribute to the formation of small cytoplasmic pre‐acrosomal vesicles (PV) which coalesced into an acrosomal chamber (AC) at the periphery of StIII. A dense anterior acrosomal body (AB) was formed in the enlarged AC in StIV. The nuclear envelope became disintegrated in StV. At last, an AB‐derived spiky acrosome was emerged from AC in StVI. Sperm nuclei became increasingly decondensed during the entire process of spermiogenesis and the nuclear components in the testicular spermatozoa appeared to only contain chains of DNA and nucleosome‐contained chromatin.
MRI assessment of bone structure and microarchitecture
Authors: Chang Gregory , Boone Sean , Martel Dimitri , Rajapakse Chamith S. , Hallyburton Robert S. , Valko Mitch , Honig Stephen , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: February 2017

Osteoporosis is a disease of weak bone and increased fracture risk caused by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue. The standard‐of‐care test used to diagnose osteoporosis, dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) estimation of areal bone mineral density (BMD), has limitations as a tool to identify patients at risk for fracture and as a tool to monitor therapy response. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessment of bone structure and microarchitecture has been proposed as another method to assess bone quality and fracture risk in vivo. MRI is advantageous because it is noninvasive, does not require ionizing radiation, and can evaluate both cortical and trabecular bone. In this review article, we summarize and discuss research progress on MRI of bone structure and microarchitecture over the last decade, focusing on in vivo translational studies. Single‐center, in vivo studies have provided some evidence for the added value of MRI as a biomarker of fracture risk or treatment response. Larger, prospective, multicenter studies are needed in the future to validate the results of these initial translational studies.

Level of Evidence: 5

Technical Efficacy: Stage 5

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;46:323–337
Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV)‐encoded microRNAs promote matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression and pro‐angiogenic cytokine secretion in endothelial cells
Authors: Guo Yuanyuan , Li Wan , Qin Jie , Lu Chun , Fan Weifei
Published: February 2017

The human oncogenic virus Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is linked to Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), a tumor of endothelial cells characterized by angiogenesis and invasiveness. KSHV genome encodes 25 mature microRNAs (miRNAs), but their roles in KSHV‐induced tumor dissemination and angiogenesis are not fully understood. In this study, we constructed the sensor reporters of KSHV miRNAs and used a luciferase reporter assay to demonstrate the function of the mimics of KSHV miRNAs. Then, we examined the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and pro‐angiogenic cytokines that are related to cell migration and angiogenesis in the KSHV 25 miRNAs transfected endothelial cells. We found that all KSHV miRNAs increased the expression of the transcripts of MMP1, MMP13, VEGFA, and VEGFR2 in different degrees, as well as the secretion of VEGFA protein in the supernatant of endothelial cells. Our results reveal that KSHV miRNAs contribute to regulating MMPs and expression of pro‐angiogenic factors, thus, suggesting that these miRNAs might play a crucial role in KSHV‐induced cell motility and angiogenesis.
Development and evaluation of a quantitative assay detecting cytomegalovirus transcripts for preemptive therapy in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Ishii Keiko , Onishi Yasushi , Miyamura Namiko , Fukuhara Noriko , Ishizawa Kenichi , Nakanishi Mutsumi , Ohnaka Satoru , Miyasaka Tomomitsu , Kanno Emi , Kawakami Kazuyoshi , Harigae Hideo , Kaku Mitsuo
Published: February 2017

Successful preemptive therapy for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) depends on the availability of a rapid and sensitive assay to guide early treatment. Currently, the antigenemia assay and the quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) assay are widely used for this purpose, but they have distinctive concerns. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a novel CMV diagnostic test based on transcription‐reverse transcription concerted reaction (TRC), an RNA‐detecting technology. The CMV‐TRC assay detected CMV β2.7 transcripts within 10 min over a five‐log range. Among a total of 219 samples obtained from 24 allogeneic HSCT recipients, samples detected as positive by the CMV‐TRC assay showed a relatively strong correlation with those detected as positive by the qPCR assay and the antigenemia assay. The CMV‐TRC assay showed higher sensitivity (77.7%) than the antigenemia assay (68.1%) and detected the first and recurrent episodes of active CMV infection in HSCT patients significantly earlier than the antigenemia assay (P < 0.001). Although the CMV‐TRC assay (87.8%) showed low sensitivity compared to the qPCR assay (96.3%), the performance of the CMV‐TRC assay was equivalent to that of the qPCR assay in detecting the appearance of active CMV infection episodes (P < 0.092) or rather superior in detecting the clearance of episodes (P < 0.001). The CMV‐TRC assay with several advantages may be useful for guiding preemptive anti‐CMV therapy in HSCT recipients.
Performance of ANTI‐HCV testing in dried blood spots and saliva according to HIV status
Authors: Flores Geane Lopes , Cruz Helena Medina , Marques Vanessa Alves , Villela‐Nogueira Cristiane Alves , Potsch Denise Vigo , May Silvia Beatriz , Brandão‐Mello Carlos Eduardo , Pires Marcia Maria Amendola , Pilotto Jose Henrique , Pollo‐Flores Priscila , Esberard Eliane Bordalo Cathalá , Ivantes Claudia , Lewis‐Ximenez Lia Laura , Lampe Elisabeth , Villar Livia Melo
Published: February 2017

The use of saliva and dried blood spots (DBS) could increase access to HCV diagnosis for high‐risk populations, such as HIV‐infected individuals, but the performance of these assays has not been well established in this group. This study aims to evaluate HIV status, particularly TCD4+ cell count and viral load, in the performance of anti‐HCV testing using DBS and saliva. A total of 961 individuals classified as HCV+, HIV+, or HIV/HCV+, as well as negative controls, donated serum, DBS, and saliva samples for anti‐HCV testing using a commercial enzyme immunoassay. Sample volume was modified for DBS and saliva, and an ROC curve was used for cut‐off determination in saliva. Anti‐HCV sensitivities were greater than 93% using DBS and saliva in the HCV+ group, while they were 83.3% and 95.6% for HCV/HIV+ individuals for DBS and saliva assays, respectively. Specificity varied from 91.7% to 100% using saliva and DBS in HIV monoinfected and control subjects. When only anti‐HCV/HCV RNA+ serum samples, that is, true positives, were considered, the sensitivities were 98.3% and 100% for DBS and saliva, respectively, in the HCV+ group and 91.6% and 94.8% for DBS and saliva, respectively, in the HIV/HCV+ group. High absorbance values were observed among those presenting with HCV RNA in serum and low HIV viral load (less than 50 copies/mL). In conclusion, DBS and saliva samples could be used for anti‐HCV detection, particularly to identify active HCV cases, but low sensitivity was observed for anti‐HCV testing using DBS in the HIV/HCV+ group.
Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Treatment and (131)I‐MIBG in the management of patients with metastatic/progressive phaeochromocytomas and paragangliomas
Authors: Nastos Konstantinos , Cheung Vincent T.F. , Toumpanakis Christos , Navalkissoor Shaunak , Quigley Anne‐Marie , Caplin Martyn , Khoo Bernard
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Radionuclide therapy has been used to treat patients with progressive/metastatic paragangliomas (PGLs) and phaeochromocytomas (PCCs). The aim of the present study is to retrospectively compare the therapeutic outcomes of these modalities in patients with progressive/metastatic PCCs and PGLs.

METHODS

Patients with progressive/metastatic PGLs and PCCs that were subjected to radionuclide treatment in our department were retrieved from our department's database for the period 1998‐2013. Overall survival (OS), progression free survival (PFS), event free survival (EFS), and response to treatment were calculated. Treatment toxicity was documented.

RESULTS

Twenty‐two patients with progressive/metastatic PGLs or PCCs were treated with either (131)I‐MIBG, (90)Y‐DOTATATE or (177)Lu‐DOTATATE. A total of 30 treatments were administered (16 treatments with (131)I‐MIBG, 2 with (177)Lu‐DOTATATE, and 12 with (90)Y‐DOTATATE. Patients treated with PRRT had increased PFS and response to treatment compared to (131)I‐MIBG treated patients (P < 0.05). However, difference in OS was non significant (P = 0.09). There was no difference in major toxicities between groups. When comparing only patients with PGLs, OS, PFS, EFS, and response to treatment were significantly higher in the PRRT treatment group.

CONCLUSION

PRRT treatment offers increased OS, PFS, EFS, and response to treatment compared to (131)I‐MIBG therapy in patients with progressive/malignant PGLs.
Tourism Competitiveness, Government and Tourism Area Life Cycle (TALC) Model: The Evaluation of Costa Rica, Guatemala and Honduras
Authors: Kubickova Marketa , Li Hengyun
Published: February 2017

The objective is to investigate the role government plays in tourism competitiveness and understand the relationship based on the Tourism Area Life Cycle model. We argue that tourism competitiveness is influenced not only by the governments' decisions but also by the stage of tourism development of the country. Countries characterized as tourism‐dependent will demonstrate higher levels of government engagement than those less dependent on tourism. Case study was employed, utilizing time‐series analysis. The results indicate that the role government plays in tourism competitiveness may depend not only on the level of freedom provided (proxy for government) but also on the stage of destination development. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Kinetics and Mechanism of the Reaction between Barbituric Acid and Glycidol, Part II: Glycidol Reacts with Imide and Methylene Groups
Authors: Lubczak Jacek , Kania Ewelina
Published: February 2017

Two derivatives of barbituric acid, 5,5‐diethylbarbituric acid and 1,3‐dimethyl‐barbituric acid, were used to react with glycidol. The kinetics of reactions was studied by continuous determination of epoxide number and acidic number in the reaction mixture aliquots. Based upon the kinetic experiments, the rate equation was formulated, which was consistent with product spectral identification of the derivatives as well as with previously studied reaction of barbituric acid with glycidol. Reaction mechanisms of glycidol with methylene and imide groups of barbituric acid have been proposed.
Kinetics of Silicon Nitride Formation on SiO2‐Derived Rice Husk Ash Using the Chemical Vapor Infiltration Method
Authors: Soltani N. , Bahrami A. , Pech‐Canul M. I. , González L. A. , Gurlo A.
Published: February 2017

Since silicon nitride coatings on silicon dioxide are attractive for the semiconductor and electronics industries, cognizance of their formation kinetics is crucial for optimization of production parameters. In this contribution, the deposition kinetics (rate constant and activation energy) of Si3N4 by the hybrid system chemical vapor infiltration route (HYSY‐CVI), starting from N2:NH3 and SiF4 (produced by the decomposition of Na2SiF6) has been studied. The deposition rate equation for Si3N4 was established from several possible gas‐phase or surface reaction steps involved in the growth of Si3N4 coatings onto silica‐derived rice husk ash (RHA). Based on a judicious analysis of four different models, it was found that Freundlich's adsorption model satisfactorily represents the rate of Si3N4 deposition process onto RHA.
Functional and Histological Effects of Chronic Neural Electrode Implantation
Authors: Sahyouni Ronald , Chang David T. , Moshtaghi Omid , Mahmoodi Amin , Djalilian Hamid R. , Lin Harrison W.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

Permanent injury to the cranial nerves can often result in a substantial reduction in quality of life. Novel and innovative interventions can help restore form and function in nerve paralysis, with bioelectric interfaces among the more promising of these approaches. The foreign body response is an important consideration for any bioelectric device as it influences the function and effectiveness of the implant. The purpose of this review is to describe tissue and functional effects of chronic neural implantation among the different categories of neural implants and highlight advances in peripheral and cranial nerve stimulation.

Data Sources: PubMed, IEEE, and Web of Science literature search.

Review Methods: A review of the current literature was conducted to examine functional and histologic effects of bioelectric interfaces for neural implants.

Results

Bioelectric devices can be characterized as intraneural, epineural, perineural, intranuclear, or cortical depending on their placement relative to nerves and neuronal cell bodies. Such devices include nerve‐specific stimulators, neuroprosthetics, brainstem implants, and deep brain stimulators. Regardless of electrode location and interface type, acute and chronic histological, macroscopic and functional changes can occur as a result of both passive and active tissue responses to the bioelectric implant.

Conclusion

A variety of chronically implantable electrodes have been developed to treat disorders of the peripheral and cranial nerves, to varying degrees of efficacy. Consideration and mitigation of detrimental effects at the neural interface with further optimization of functional nerve stimulation will facilitate the development of these technologies and translation to the clinic.

Level of Evidence

3.
Aqueous Self‐Assembly of Y‐Shaped Amphiphilic Block Copolymers into Giant Vesicles
Authors: Li Hanping , Jin Yong , Fan Baozhu , Lai Shuangquan , Sun Xiaopeng , Qi Rui
Published: February 2017

The preparation and aqueous self‐assembly of newly Y‐shaped amphiphilic block polyurethane (PUG) copolymers are reported here. These amphiphilic copolymers, designed to have two hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) tails and one hydrophobic alkyl tail via a two‐step coupling reaction, can self‐assemble into giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) (diameter ≥ 1000 nm) with a direct dissolution method in aqueous solution, depending on their Y‐shaped structures and initial concentrations. More interesting, the copolymers can self‐assemble into various distinct nano‐/microstructures, such as spherical micelles, small vesicles, and GUVs, with the increase of their concentrations. The traditional preparation methods of GUVs generally need conventional amphiphilic molecules and additional complicated conditions, such as alternating electrical field, buffer solution, or organic solvent. Therefore, the self‐assembly of Y‐shaped PUGs with a direct dissolution method in aqueous solution demonstrated in this study supplies a new clue to fabricate GUVs based on the geometric design of amphiphilic polymers.

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Sustained Drug Release by Thermoresponsive Sol–Gel Hybrid Hydrogels of Poly(N‐Isopropylacrylamide‐co‐3‐(Trimethoxysilyl)Propyl Methacrylate) Copolymers
Authors: Osváth Zsófia , Tóth Tamás , Iván Béla
Published: February 2017

Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate), P(NIPAAm‐co‐TMSPMA), copolymers with relatively high TMSPMA contents without insoluble fraction are successfully synthesized. Subsequent sol–gel reactions in both the absence and presence of tetraethyl orthosilicate lead to gels with high gel fractions. The resulting gels undergo gel collapse at 28.6–28.7 °C, i.e., below that of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) homopolymer of 34.3 °C. Unexpectedly, the theophylline‐loaded hybrid gels release the drug not only below but also above the gel collapse temperature (GCT) with considerable rates and released amounts of drug. Surprisingly, evaluation of the sustained release profiles by the Korsmeyer–Peppas equation indicates that the release occurs by Fickian diffusion above GCT, which can be attributed to the lack of significant drug–polymer interaction at such temperatures. These results can be widely applied for the design and utilization of TMSPMA‐based sol–gel polymer hybrids with desired release profiles of solutes below and above GCT for a variety of applications.

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Asymptotic behavior of exact solutions for the Cauchy problem to the 3D cylindrically symmetric Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Qin Yuming , Zhang Jianlin
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we establish exact solutions of the Cauchy problem for the 3D cylindrically symmetric incompressible Navier–Stokes equations and further study the global existence and asymptotic behavior of solutions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
General decay of solutions of quasilinear wave equation with time‐varying delay in the boundary feedback and acoustic boundary conditions
Authors: Lee Mi Jin , Park Jong Yeoul , Park Sun‐Hye
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we are concerned with the general decay result of the quasi‐linear wave equation with a time‐varying delay in the boundary feedback and acoustic boundary conditions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of metabolite concentrations, T1 and T2 relaxation times
Authors: An Li , Li Shizhe , Shen Jun
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To simultaneously measure concentration and T1 and T2 values of metabolites in the human brain in a single scan session.

Methods

A new pulse sequence with multiple variable acquisition parameters was proposed to encode metabolite T1 and T2 information into the acquired data. A linear combination‐fitting algorithm was developed in‐house to simultaneously determine metabolite concentrations and relaxation times.

Results

Concentration, T1, and T2 values of N‐acetyl‐aspartate, total creatine, total choline, and glutamate were reliably measured in the frontal gray matter and white matter regions of nine healthy volunteers at 7 tesla in less than 10 minutes of scan time per voxel. T1 and T2 values of glutamine, as well as T1 of glutathione, were also measured in the frontal gray matter region with reasonable precision.

Conclusion

The proposed technique allows multiparametric characterization of brain metabolites in a single scan session, making it possible to measure both levels and intracellular microenvironments of brain chemicals in clinical MR spectroscopy studies. Magn Reson Med 78:2072–2081, 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
The quality of life in genetic neuromuscular disease questionnaire: Rasch validation of the French version
Authors: Dany Antoine , Rapin Amandine , Lavrard Brice , Saoût Virginie , Réveillère Christian , Bassez Guillaume , Tiffreau Vincent , Péréon Yann , Sacconi Sabrina , Eymard Bruno , Dramé Moustapha , Jolly Damien , Novella Jean‐Luc , Hardouin Jean‐Benoit , Boyer François C.
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Slowly progressive, genetic neuromuscular diseases (gNMDs) often lead to important motor deficiencies and functional limitations. The Quality of Life in Genetic Neuromuscular Disease Questionnaire (QoL‐gNMD) is a new health‐related quality‐of‐life questionnaire developed for these patients. The purpose of the present study was to validate the French version of the QoL‐gNMD and to calibrate its measurement system.

Methods

Both the QoL‐gNMD and a validated generic questionnaire (WHOQOL‐BREF) were administered to patients. Validation was performed using item response theory. The partial credit model (Rasch) was used to calibrate each domain.

Results

Three hundred fifteen adult patients were included. All 3 domains showed adequate psychometric properties (internal consistency: person separation index >0.77; repeatability: test–retest intraclass correlation coefficient >0.75, scalability coefficient >0.38) and fitted the partial credit model. The QoL‐gNMD also demonstrated adequate concurrent validity with the WHOQOL‐BREF.

Discussion

The QoL‐gNMD showed adequate psychometric properties and can be used in clinical settings. Although not anchor‐based, the minimum detectable change tables help in interpreting score change. Muscle Nerve 56: 1085–1091, 2017
Developmentally regulated alternative splicing is perturbed in type 1 diabetic skeletal muscle
Authors: Nutter Curtis A. , Jaworski Elizabeth , Verma Sunil K. , Perez‐Carrasco Yareli , Kuyumcu‐Martinez Muge N.
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Type 1 diabetic patients can develop skeletal muscle weakness and atrophy by molecular mechanisms that are not well understood. Alternative splicing (AS) is critical for gene expression in the skeletal muscle, and its dysregulation is implicated in muscle weakness and atrophy. Therefore, we investigated whether AS patterns are affected in type 1 diabetic skeletal muscle contributing to skeletal muscle defects.

Methods

AS patterns were determined by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and levels of RNA binding proteins were assessed by Western blot in type 1 diabetic mouse skeletal muscle and during normal mouse skeletal muscle development.

Results

Five genes with critical functions in the skeletal muscle are misspliced in type 1 diabetic skeletal muscle, resembling their AS patterns at embryonic stages. AS of these genes undergoes dramatic transitions during skeletal muscle development, correlating with changes in specific RNA binding proteins.

Conclusion

Embryonic spliced variants are inappropriately expressed in type 1 diabetic skeletal muscle. Muscle Nerve 56: 744–749, 2017
Two‐dimensional finite element method solution of a class of integro‐differential equations: Application to non‐Fickian transport in disordered media
Authors: Ben‐Zvi Rami , Scher Harvey , Berkowitz Brian
Published: February 2017

A finite element method is developed to solve a class of integro‐differential equations and demonstrated for the important specific problem of non‐Fickian contaminant transport in disordered porous media. This transient transport equation, derived from a continuous time random walk approach, includes a memory function. An integral element is the incorporation of the well‐known sum‐of‐exponential approximation of the kernel function, which allows a simple recurrence relation rather than storage of the entire history. A two‐dimensional linear element is implemented, including a streamline upwind Petrov–Galerkin weighting scheme. The developed solver is compared with an analytical solution in the Laplace domain, transformed numerically to the time domain, followed by a concise convergence assessment. The analysis shows the power and potential of the method developed here. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“One‐pot” synthesis of crosslinked silicone‐containing macromolecular charring agent and its synergistic flame retardant poly(l‐lactic acid) with ammonium polyphosphate
Authors: Guan Yanyan , Wen Xin , Yang Hongfan , Zhang Lipeng , Li Mingang , Shao Jing , Li Yunhui , Tang Tao
Published: February 2017

A crosslinked silicone‐containing macromolecular charring agent (CSi‐MCA) was synthesized via “one‐pot” process, and it was combined with ammonium polyphosphate (APP) to synergistically improve the flame retardancy of poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLA). The chemical structure of synthesized CSi‐MCA was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and solid‐state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance. The thermal gravimetric analyzer indicated that the CSi‐MCA displayed good thermal stability and high residue via the catalytic crosslinking. Furthermore, the flame retardant effect of CSi‐MCA and APP as intumescent flame retardants in PLA system was investigated by limited oxygen index, UL94, and cone calorimeter test. When the content of CSi‐MCA was 5 wt% and APP was 10 wt% (CSi‐MCA/APP = 1/2), the limited oxygen index value of composites was 33.6 and UL94 classed a V‐0 rating. The peak heat release rate and total heat release of PLA composites containing both APP and CSi‐MCA decreased significantly in comparison with those with APP or CSi‐MCA alone. The flame retardancy mechanism was investigated via analyzing residual chars by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy as well as the possible chemical reaction between APP and CSi‐MCA by thermal gravimetric analyzer and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results showed that the enhanced flame retardancy was attributed mainly to synergistic effect of CSi‐MCA and APP, which could form a compact, continuous, and protective layer during combustion. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An investigation on the mechanical and tribological properties of carbon fiber/polyimide composites at elevated temperatures
Authors: Dong Fengxia , Hou Guoliang , Liu Hao , Liu Liang , Cao Fengxiang , Wang Jianzhang , Yan Fengyuan
Published: February 2017

Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic polyimide composites were prepared, and the mechanical properties and tribological behaviors at various sliding conditions were systematically investigated. The results showed that the incorporation of carbon fiber not only improves the flexural and tensile properties of polyimide but also greatly promotes the dynamic mechanical properties. Meanwhile, the introduction of carbon fiber greatly enhances the antifriction performance and wear resistance of polyimide at elevated temperatures. Notably, at high temperatures of 180 and 260°C, the composite containing 20vol% carbon fiber exhibits the lowest friction coefficients of 0.054 and 0.1 respectively, accompanied with the lowest wear rates. Moreover, the influence of applied load and sliding speed was also investigated at various temperatures. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical analysis indicate that some lubricating films can be formed on the contact surfaces at high temperatures due to the softening of contact surface and the graphitization of carbon fiber, and the wear mechanism is dominant by adhesive wear. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E869–E882, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Fetal right aortic arch: associated anomalies, genetic anomalies with chromosomal microarray analysis, and postnatal outcome
Authors: Peng Ruan , Xie Hong‐Ning , Zheng Ju , Zhou Yi , Lin Mei‐Fang
Published: February 2017

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the associated prenatal findings, genetic anomalies with chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) and postnatal outcome of fetal right aortic arch (RAA).

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed 92 fetuses diagnosed with RAA and the findings of CMA using Affymetrix CytoScan HD array in our institution between 2013 and 2016.

Results

Postnatal data were not available for six cases, and genetic data were not available for 26 cases. Tetralogy of the Fallot was the most frequently associated anomaly. Among the 60 fetuses with known karyotype, one was 46, X, Yqh+, der(13)t(8;13)(q22.3;q33.2), one was 47, XYY and the remaining were normal. Our study showed that CMA could detect uncertain significant copy number variants in 5.2% of fetal RAA and pathogenic copy number variants in 5.2%, all of which were microdeletion in chromosome 22q11.21. The genetic anomalies, gestational age at delivery and postnatal death were not significantly different between RAA‐no intracardiac anomalies and RAA‐intracardiac anomalies group. One infant with aberrant left subclavian artery needed to perform a surgery for respiratory symptom.

Conclusions

A right aortic arch is associated with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in approximately 5% of cases, and, therefore, prenatal testing, preferably using CMA, should be offered. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A case of haemoglobinopathy and elevated HbA1c
Authors: Surchi Haval , Rea Rustam
Published: February 2017

A 34‐year‐old woman was referred to the specialist diabetes service for investigation of fainting episodes. She was otherwise fit and well, spending 10 hours a week cycling, running and swimming. Multiple pathology investigations were undertaken prior to her appointment which were all within normal limits except her HbA1c result which was raised at 77 mmol/mol (9.2%). She had no symptoms of hyperglycaemia. Following a review in the diabetes clinic, a suspicion of a spurious HbA1c result arose. Her blood sample was reprocessed using a boronate affinity assay (Alere Afinion analyser) and the result came back as 32 mmol/mol (5.1%) compared with an HPLC (Bio‐Rad D100) method of 83 mmol/mol (9.7%). Further analysis of her haemoglobin (Hb) subtypes showed that she had Hb Wayne.

Hb Wayne is a variant haemoglobin first described in 1976 as an elongated α‐chain frame shift variant. It does not produce clinical symptoms and exists as two isoforms: Hb Wayne I (Asn 139) and Hb Wayne II (Asp 139). The prevalence of Hb Wayne trait is unknown; 62 cases over a 16‐year period have been reported in a predominantly US population. The abnormal Hb Wayne haemoglobin acts like HbA1c (even though it is not attached to glucose), and this gives an overlapping peak when the separated species are detected and provides a falsely elevated HbA1c value. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons.
Interrogating the hidden phosphoproteome
Authors: Kang Un‐Beom , Alexander William M. , Marto Jarrod A.
Published: February 2017

Postgenomic studies continue to highlight the potential clinical importance of protein phosphorylation signaling pathways in drug discovery. Unfortunately, the dynamic range and variable stoichiometry of protein phosphorylation continues to stymie efforts to achieve comprehensive characterization of the human phosphoproteome. In this study, we develop a complementary, two‐stage method for enrichment of cysteine‐containing phosphopeptides combined with TMT multiplex labeling for relative quantification. The use of this approach with multidimensional fractionation in mammalian cells yielded more than 7000 unique cys‐phosphopeptide sequences, comprising 15–20% novel phosphorylation sites. The use of our approach in combination with pharmacologic inhibitors of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 and 2 identified several putatively novel protein substrates for the mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase.
Preparation and optical properties of polyimide films linked with porphyrinato Pd (II) and Pt (II) complexes through a triazine ring and application toward oxygen sensors
Authors: Kimura Takeshi , Watanabe Shuichi , Sawada Shin-ichi , Shibasaki Yuji , Oishi Yoshiyuki
Published: February 2017

5‐(3‐Aminophenyl)‐10,15,20‐tri(4‐methylphenyl) porphyrinato Pd (II) and Pt (II) complexes (2a‐Pd) and (2a‐Pt), respectively, were prepared from 5‐(3‐nitrophenyl)‐10,15,20‐tri(4‐methyl‐phenyl)porphyrin via two‐step reactions, and reacted with cyanuric chloride to produce corresponding porphyrin derivatives (3a‐Pd) and (3a‐Pt) with a dichlorotriazine ring. Aromatic polyimides were prepared using diamine (4); triazine dichlorides having porphyrin units (3a‐Pd), (3a‐Pt), (3c‐Pd), and (3c‐Pt); fluoro‐functionality 6‐(p‐perfluorononenyl oxyanilino)triazine‐2,4‐dichloride (6); and tetracarboxylic dianhydride (5) in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) at an elevated temperature up to 300 °C. The resulting viscous polymeric solution was cast on a glass plate, affording well‐proportioned reddish transparent films with number‐average molecular weights of 25,000–38,000. Glass transition temperatures of the polymers were ∼230 °C; the films were stable up to 400 °C in air. The film emission spectra showed a broad peak ∼670 nm, similar to those of porphyrins (2a‐Pd) and (2a‐Pt) dispersed in a polystyrene matrix. While the luminescence of these polymer films was quenched with oxygen, it rapidly recovered under a deoxygenated atmosphere. The polyimide film sensitivity to oxygen was higher under low oxygen concentrations than those of porphyrins (2a‐Pd) and (2a‐Pt) dispersed in polystyrene. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 1086–1094
Carbon dioxide washout during high flow nasal cannula versus nasal CPAP support: An in vitro study
Authors: Sivieri Emidio M. , Foglia Elizabeth E. , Abbasi Soraya
Published: February 2017

Objective: To compare CO2 washout time at different levels of HFNC versus NCPAP in a premature infant lung model with simulated mouth‐closed and mouth‐open conditions using two sizes of nasal cannula and full‐ and half‐prong HFNC insertion depths. Design/Methods: A piston‐cylinder lung simulator, having a fixed volume of 30 ml and a 4.8 ml dead space, simulated spontaneous breathing (6.5 ml tidal volume, 50 br/min, Ti = 0.5 sec). Two Fisher & Paykel™ cannulas (Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Ltd., Auckland, New Zealand) (2.8 and 3.2 mm O.D.) and two Infant‐Flow™ (CareFusion, Yorba Linda, CA) NCPAP cannulas (3.4 and 4.1 mm O.D.) were applied to simulated airways having either 3.5 or 4.5 mm I.D. nares. Simulated mouth opening was a 5 mm I.D. side tap below the nasal interface. The lung was primed with 5% CO2. Washout times were determined at HFNC settings of 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 L/min and NCPAP at 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 cm H2O with simulated open and closed‐mouth conditions and full‐ and half‐inserted HFNC prongs. Results: Overall combined mean washout times for NCPAP with mouth‐closed were significantly longer than HFNC over all five pressure and flow device settings by 16.2% (P < 0.001). CO2 washout times decreased as flow or pressure device settings were increased. There were negligible differences in washout times between NCPAP and HFNC with mouth‐open. Mouth‐open washout times were significantly less than mouth‐closed for all conditions. Overall closed‐mouth washout times for HFNC half‐prong insertion were longer than for full‐prong insertion by 5.3% (P < 0.022). Conclusions: Significantly improved CO2 elimination using HFNC versus NCPAP should be a particularly important consideration in premature infants having very high dead space‐to‐tidal volume ratio compared to larger infants. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:792–798. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rare cause for hemoptysis in an adolescent: Bronchial capillary hemangioma
Authors: Hämmerling Susanne , Becker Sebastian , Mall Marcus A.
Published: February 2017

Hemoptysis is rare in children and adolescents. We describe an 11‐year‐old girl who presented with hemoptysis, cough, and exertional dyspnea. Radiologic and bronchoscopic assessment revealed a pedunculated mass in the right main stem bronchus with a ball valve effect. Carcinoid or hemangioma was suspected as cause of the mass. The tumor could be excised bronchoscopically, and histologic examination showed a capillary hemangioma. In the literature, bronchial hemangiomas are described in infants and adults. This case demonstrates that bronchial hemangioma should also be taken into consideration as a cause of hemoptysis in adolescents.
Development of GaN substrate with a large diameter and small orientation deviation
Authors: Yoshida Takehiro , Imanishi Masayuki , Kitamura Toshio , Otaka Kenji , Imade Mamoru , Shibata Masatomo , Mori Yusuke
Published: February 2017

In this study, we demonstrated a very large freestanding GaN crystal with a diameter of 175 mm developed by the “tiling technique”. The technique merges small multiple seed wafers with a thick GaN layer grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy. To the best of our knowledge, it is the largest GaN crystal ever reported. Its orientation deviation could be the same as those of applied individual seeds by using the starting substrate, which was prepared by binding all the seeds on a base plate with a high temperature adhesive. Scrupulous attention was required to select the materials. Furthermore, we were able to grow GaN with hydride vapor phase epitaxy on a high‐quality GaN substrate, which was prepared by an Na‐flux method, with no crystal deteriorations. Through the fusion of the above results, the ideal GaN substrates can be realized.

Example of a freestanding GaN crystal with a diameter of 175 mm developed by the “tiling technique”.
Resistive switching in manganese oxide with nonlineardependence of the local resistivity on the oxygen‐vacancy concentration
Authors: Boylo Irina V.
Published: February 2017

The present paper examines the influence of a nonlinear relationship between the local oxygen‐vacancy concentration and the local resistivity on resistive switching effects in complex oxides. The continuity equation has been used as a model for the motion of oxygen vacancies when a periodic time‐dependent electrical current is applied. The question of endurance of the switching cycles is discussed. It is found that nonlinearity of the resistivity–concentration dependence enhances the endurance.
Thermal conductivity of bulk GaN grown by HVPE: Effect of Si doping
Authors: Slomski Michael , Paskov Plamen P. , Leach Jacob H. , Muth John F. , Paskova Tania
Published: February 2017

The thermal conductivity of bulk GaN grown by Hydride Phase Vapor Epitaxy with intentional Si doping was measured using the 3ω method. The effect of Si concentration ranging from 1.6 × 1016 to 7 × 1018 cm−3 on the thermal conductivity was studied over the temperature range of 295–470 K. The room temperature thermal conductivity was found to decrease with increasing Si doping from 245 to 210 W/m · K. Also, for each Si doped sample the thermal conductivity decreases with increasing temperature. The experimental data were analysed by a modified Callaway model and the contribution of different resistive phonon scattering process was examined. It was found that in n‐type GaN the phonon‐free‐electron scattering became an important resistive process that leads to a reduction of the thermal conductivity at high temperatures. At the highest free electron concentrations, electronic thermal conduction was found to play a role in addition to lattice thermal conduction and compete with the effects of phonon‐free‐electron scattering.
Coupled cluster calculations provide a one‐to‐one mapping between calculated and observed transition energies in the electronic absorption spectrum of zinc phthalocyanine
Authors: Wallace Andrew J. , Williamson Bryce E. , Crittenden Deborah L.
Published: February 2017

All transitions in the experimentally designated and numbered Q, B, and N bands (< 4.8 eV) of the electronic absorption spectrum of zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) are assigned on the basis of one‐to‐one agreement between calculated and experimentally observed transition energies and oscillator strengths. Each band in this range of the spectrum represents a ligand‐based transition that originates from a combination of occupied orbitals and terminates in the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO,
). Transition energies in the L and C regions (4.8–6.5 eV) are harder to capture quantitatively, due to the partial Rydberg character of some of the excited states, and so are tentatively assigned here. Most transitions in this range correspond to excitations from the HOMO or lower‐energy orbitals to π orbitals above the LUMO.
The enhancing effects of molecule X (X = PH2Cl, SHCl, ClCl) on chalcogen–chalcogen interactions in cyclic trimers Y···Y···X (Y = SHCl, SeHCl)
Authors: Mo Lixin , Zeng Yanli , Li Xiaoyan , Meng Lingpeng
Published: February 2017

The enhancing effects of molecule X (X = PH2Cl, SHCl, ClCl) on S···S and Se···Se chalcogen–chalcogen bonds in the cyclic trimers SHCl···SHCl···X and SeHCl···SeHCl···X were investigated by calculations at the MP2/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level. When molecule X is added to the dimer SHCl···SHCl (SeHCl···SeHCl), cyclic trimers are formed. Compared with the dimer, all the cyclic trimers have shorter S···S (Se···Se) lengths, greater electron densities, negative three‐body interaction energies, and larger second‐order perturbation energies. These results indicate that the addition of molecule X strengthens the original S···S (Se···Se) bond. For the SHCl···SHCl···X cyclic trimers, the S···S bond is strongest in SHCl···SHCl···PH2Cl, weaker in SHCl···SHCl···SHCl, and weakest in SHCl···SHCl···ClCl. This same trend is observed for the Se···Se bond in SeHCl···SeHCl···X. This means that PH2Cl provides the greatest enhancement to the S···S (Se···Se) interaction.
Strengthened Synergistic Effect of Metallic MxPy (M = Co, Ni, and Cu) and Carbon Layer via Peapod‐Like Architecture for Both Hydrogen and Oxygen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Bai Yuanjuan , Fang Ling , Xu Haitao , Gu Xiao , Zhang Huijuan , Wang Yu
Published: February 2017

The smooth electric transmission is crucial for the high‐efficient electrocatalysis. Herein, a series of peapod‐like metallic MxPy/C (M = Co, Ni, and Cu) composites is developed as bifunctional catalysts toward hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions. For the first time, the metallic property of Cu3P is confirmed through the theoretical calculation. The in‐depth composition, structural and catalytic mechanism analysis of MxPy/C discloses that the comparable activity and considerable durability of these catalysts mainly result from the strengthened synergistic effect between metallic MxPy and carbon layer based on the unique peapod‐like architecture. Especially, the atomic contact between MxPy and carbon not only provides an open channel for electronic transmission but also ensures the integrity of peapod‐like structure. Furthermore, the high electric conductivity of the inner metallic MxPy and the outer carbon layer endows the MxPy/C catalyst with rapid charge migration during the electrocatalytic pathway. These findings shed light on the origin of high catalytic activity of MxPy/C and open a path for purposefully rationally synthesizing superior electrocatalysts.
Modulation of Carrier‐Induced Defect Kinetics in Multi‐Crystalline Silicon PERC Cells Through Dark Annealing
Authors: Chan Catherine , Fung Tsun Hang , Abbott Malcolm , Payne David , Wenham Alison , Hallam Brett , Chen Ran , Wenham Stuart
Published: February 2017

In this letter, we report on significant changes caused after dark annealing to the kinetics of the carrier‐induced defect, present in p‐type multi‐crystalline silicon PERC cells. The characteristic shapes of the degradation and regeneration curves under light soaking at 75 °C are dramatically altered, depending on the temperature of an initial dark anneal on the non‐degraded cell. Dark annealing for a fixed time (2.5 h) at temperatures of 200 °C or below, is found to accelerate both the subsequent degradation and regeneration rate and the degradation severity, while at higher temperatures it appears that a possible second defect with a significantly longer degradation and regeneration rate is activated. Through a further increase of the dark annealing temperature, the magnitude of this slow degradation is suppressed. This data provides essential information into the role that thermal history plays in the behavior of the still unidentified defect or defects, which is crucial for future studies of the degradation and methods to mitigate it.
Evaluating code‐based test input generator tools
Authors: Cseppentő Lajos , Micskei Zoltán
Published: February 2017

In recent years, several tools have been developed to automatically select test inputs from the code of the system under test. However, each of these tools has different advantages, and there is a little detailed feedback available on the actual capabilities of the various tools. To evaluate test input generators, this paper collects a set of programming language concepts that should be handled by the tools and maps these core concepts and challenging features like handling the environment or multi‐threading to 363 code snippets, respectively. These snippets would serve as inputs for the tools. Next, the paper presents SETTE, an automated framework to execute and evaluate these snippets. Using SETTE, multiple experiments were performed on five Java and one .NET‐based tools using symbolic execution, search‐based, and random techniques. The test suites' coverage, size, generation time, and mutation score were compared. The results highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each tool and approach and identify hard code parts that are difficult to tackle for most of the tools. We hope that this research could serve as actionable feedback to tool developers and help practitioners assess the readiness of test input generation.
BDNF‐induced endocannabinoid release modulates neocortical glutamatergic neurotransmission
Authors: Yeh Mason L. , Selvam Rajamani , Levine Eric S.
Published: February 2017

Endocannabinoids (eCBs) and neurotrophins, particularly brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are potent neuromodulators found throughout the mammalian neocortex. Both eCBs and BDNF play critical roles in many behavioral and neurophysiological processes and are targets for the development of novel therapeutics. The effects of eCBs and BDNF are primarily mediated by the type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor and the trkB tyrosine kinase receptor, respectively. Our laboratory and others have previously established that BDNF potentiates excitatory transmission by enhancing presynaptic glutamate release and modulating NMDA receptors. In contrast, we have shown that BDNF attenuates inhibitory transmission by inducing postsynaptic release of eCBs that act retrogradely to suppress GABA release in layer 2/3 of somatosensory cortex. Here, we hypothesized that BDNF also induces release of eCBs at excitatory synapses, which could have a mitigating or opposing effect on the direct presynaptic effects of BDNF. We found the highest levels of expression of CB1 and trkB and receptors in layers 2/3 and 5. Surprisingly, BDNF did not increase the frequency of spontaneous miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) onto layer 5 pyramidal neurons in somatosensory cortex, in contrast to its effects in the hippocampus and visual cortex. However, the effect of BDNF on mEPSC frequency in somatosensory cortex was unmasked by blocking CB1 receptors or disrupting eCB release. Thus, BDNF‐trKB signaling regulates glutamate release in the somatosensory cortex via opposing effects, a direct presynaptic enhancement of release probability, and simultaneous postsynaptically‐induced eCB release that decreases release probability via presynaptic CB1 receptors.
The surface modification of BaTiO3 and its effects on the microstructure and electrical properties of BaTiO3/silicone rubber composites
Authors: Guan Shanshan , Li Hai , Zhao Shugao , Guo Laina
Published: February 2017

Interfacial interaction and compatibility between the ceramic dielectric and polymer matrix have strong impact on the dielectric constant and dielectric loss of their composites. In this work, the BaTiO3 (BT) nanoparticles were modified by (1) stearic acid (SA); (2) aluminate coupling agent (ACA); (3) the combination of SA and coupling agent aluminate, and then incorporated them with silicone rubber (SR) matrix to prepare BT/SR nanocomposites. The effects of the surface modification methods of BT on the microstructure and electrical properties of BT/SR nanocomposite films were studied. The results showed that SA and ACA were beneficial to the dispersion of BT and resulted in the strong interfacial interaction. The composite of BT modified by SA not only had high dielectric constant of 10.5, 2 times higher than that of the unmodified BT/SR nanocomposite (4.7), at the same time showed lower dielectric loss. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:288–294, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers