bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OPTICAL AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF ARGON ION BEAM IRRADIATED PVA/Ag NANOCOMPOSITES
Authors: ABDEL REHEEM A. M. , ATTA A. , AFIFY T. A.
Published: August 2016

In this work, PVA/Ag nanocomposites films were prepared using solution casting technique, these films were irradiated with Argon ion beam to modify the structure. The main objective of the study is to enhance the optical and electrical properties of the polymer nanocomposites films by irradiation. The conventional characterization techniques such as UV–Visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and dielectric measurement are employed to understand the structure–property relations. FTIR analysis of these composite films shows chemical changes and a significant impact on them can be observed after irradiation. After doping, the XRD data shows silver nanoparticles formation in the PVA polymer. The band gap energy of samples is decreased with increases in the concentration of silver nanoparticles and ion beam fluence, which gives clear indication that ion beam irradiation induced defects are formed in the composite systems. The electrical conductivity, dielectric loss [Formula: see text] and dielectric constant [Formula: see text] are increased with increasing ion beam fluence and Ag dopant concentration.
EFFECTS OF SURFACE PROPERTIES ON FLUID ENGINEERING GENERATED BY THE SURFACE-DRIVEN CAPILLARY FLOW OF WATER IN MICROFLUIDIC LAB-ON-A-CHIP SYSTEMS FOR BIOENGINEERING APPLICATIONS
Authors: MUKHOPADHYAY SUBHADEEP , BANERJEE JYOTI PRASAD , ROY SUSANTA SINHA , METYA SANJEEV KUMAR , TWEEDIE MARK , McLAUGHLIN JAMES ANDREW
Published: August 2016

In this research paper, in total 212 individual leakage-free Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microfluidic devices are fabricated by maskless lithography, hot embossing lithography and direct bonding technique. The effect of channel aspect ratio on dyed water flow is investigated using these microfluidic devices. Experimental studies show that the dyed water flow is faster on the surface of higher wettability. The effect of capillary pressure on dyed water flow is studied in the fabricated PMMA microfluidic devices. According to the experimental observations, the centrifugal force has prominent effect on the dyed water flow. Also, the effect of bend angle is investigated on the surface-driven capillary flow of water. The polystyrene microparticles have been separated in the microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems using the investigated flow features. A 100% separation efficiency is achieved in these lab-on-a-chip systems. These microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems can be used to separate blood cells from human whole blood for further clinical tests. These experimental studies are important in bioengineering applications. The effect of bend angle as channel geometry to control the surface-driven capillary flow is investigated as a novel approach to control the separation time in microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems. Also, the effect of surface wettability as surface property to control the surface-driven capillary flow is investigated as a novel approach to control the separation time in microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems.
HALF-WAVE SEGMENT FEATURE EXTRACTION OF EEG SIGNALS OF PATIENTS WITH DEPRESSION AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF NEURAL NETWORK CLASSIFIERS
Authors: PUTHANKATTIL SUBHA D. , JOSEPH PAUL K.
Published: August 2016

A detailed understanding of key signal characteristics has enabled the use of artificial neural networks (ANN) for feature detection and classification of EEG signals in clinical research. The present study is performed to classify EEG signals of normal and depression patients with wavelet parameters as key input features. The characteristics of depression cannot be made out by visual inspection of EEG records unlike epilepsy which is well characterized by sudden recurrent and transient waveforms. In this study, a comparison is made between the performance of feedforward neural network (FFNN) and probabilistic neural network (PNN) while classifying the EEG signals of normal and depression patients. Classification capabilities of both the methods are validated with the EEG recordings from 30 normal controls and 30 depression patients. One-way ANOVA provided a statistical significant difference between the two classes of EEG signals recorded. Preprocessing for feature extraction is done using discrete wavelet transform (DWT). The time domain and relative wavelet energy (RWE) features calculated from the sub-bands are given as a set of input to the neural network. Another set of feature used independently for training the network is the wavelet entropy (WE). The FFNN achieved a classification accuracy of 100% and PNN gave an accuracy of 58.75% with time domain and wavelet energy as the input features. With wavelet entropy as the input feature, FFNN further showed 98.75% classification accuracy while PNN gave an accuracy of only 46.5%. The results indicate that FFNN with the given input features is more suitable for the classification of EEG signals with mood changing depressive disorders.
Mitigation Measures for Wildlife in Wind Energy Development, Consolidating the State of Knowledge — Part 1: Planning and Siting, Construction
Authors: Gartman Victoria , Bulling Lea , Dahmen Marie , Geißler Gesa , Köppel Johann
Published: August 2016

During this rapid development of wind energy aiming to combat climate change worldwide, there is greater need to avoid, reduce, and compensate for impacts on wildlife: Through the effective use of mitigation, wind energy can continue to expand while reducing impacts. This is a first broad step into discussing and understanding mitigation strategies collectively, identifying the current state of knowledge and be a beneficial resource for practitioners and conservationists. We review the current state of published knowledge, both land-based and offshore, with a focus on wind energy–wildlife mitigation measures. We state measures and highlight their objective and discuss at which project stage it is most effective (e.g. planning, construction, and operation). Thereafter, we discuss key findings within current wind energy mitigation research, needing improved understanding into the efficacy of wildlife mitigation as well as research into the cost aspects of mitigation implementation. This paper is divided into two articles; Part 1 focuses on mitigation measures during planning, siting, and construction, while Part 2 focuses on measures during operation and decommissioning.
Facile and one-pot solution synthesis of several kinds of 3D hierarchical flower-like α-Bi2O3 microspheres
Authors: Wang Yajun , Li Zexue , Yu Haiyang , Feng Changgen
Published: August 2016

Several kinds of three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical constructed flower-like [Formula: see text]-Bi2O3 microspheres were prepared successfully via a simple solution precipitation synthesis at 95[Formula: see text]C and ambient atmospheric pressure in 1[Formula: see text]h. The synthesis process was operated in ethanol–water system as solvent with the assistance of glycerin and oleic acid as capping agents. These flower-like [Formula: see text]-Bi2O3 architectures with diameter of several micrometers were 3D self-assembled from nanorods or nanocubes step by step. By adjusting the concentration of the capping agents, various flower-like [Formula: see text]-Bi2O3 microspheres were obtained. The formation of the flower-like superstructures was attributed to the modification of nucleation and growth kinetics, and the guidance of self-assembly approach by capping agents. The formation mechanism of these microstructures was discussed briefly.
Sex differences in the cardiovascular consequences of the inspiratory muscle metaboreflex
Authors: Smith Joshua R. , Broxterman Ryan M. , Hammer Shane M. , Alexander Andrew M. , Didier Kaylin D. , Kurti Stephanie P. , Barstow Thomas J. , Harms Craig A.
Published: August 2016

It is currently unknown whether sex differences exist in the cardiovascular consequences of the inspiratory muscle metaboreflex. We hypothesized that the activation of the inspiratory muscle metaboreflex will lead to less of an increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and limb vascular resistance (LVR) and less of a decrease in limb blood flow (Q̇L) in women compared with men. Twenty healthy men ( n = 10, 23 ± 2 yr) and women ( n = 10, 22 ± 3 yr) were recruited for this study. Subjects performed inspiratory resistive breathing tasks (IRBTs) at 2% or 65% of their maximal inspiratory mouth pressure (PIMAX). During the IRBTs, the breathing frequency was 20 breaths/min with a 50% duty cycle. At rest and during the IRBTs, MAP was measured via automated oscillometry, Q̇L was measured via Doppler ultrasound, and LVR was calculated. EMG was recorded on the leg to ensure no muscle contraction occurred. The 65% IRBT led to attenuated increases ( P < 0.01) from baseline in women compared with men for MAP (W: 7.3 ± 2.0 mmHg; M: 11.1 ± 5.0 mmHg) and LVR (W: 17.7% ± 14.0%; M: 47.9 ± 21.0%), as well as less of a decrease ( P < 0.01) in Q̇L (W: −7.5 ± 9.9%; M: −23.3 ± 10.2%). These sex differences in MAP, Q̇L, and LVR were still present in a subset of subjects matched for PIMAX. The 2% IRBT resulted in no significant changes in MAP, Q̇L, or LVR across time or between men and women. These data indicate premenopausal women exhibit an attenuated inspiratory muscle metaboreflex compared with age-matched men.
Deletion of soluble epoxide hydrolase enhances coronary reactive hyperemia in isolated mouse heart: role of oxylipins and PPARγ
Authors: Hanif Ahmad , Edin Matthew L. , Zeldin Darryl C. , Morisseau Christophe , Nayeem Mohammed A.
Published: August 2016

The relationship between soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) and coronary reactive hyperemia (CRH) response to a brief ischemic insult is not known. Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) exert cardioprotective effects in ischemia/reperfusion injury. sEH converts EETs into dihydroxyeicosatrienoic-acids (DHETs). Therefore, we hypothesized that knocking out sEH enhances CRH through modulation of oxylipin profiles, including an increase in EET/DHET ratio. Compared with sEH+/+, sEH−/− mice showed enhanced CRH, including greater repayment volume (RV; 28% higher, P < 0.001) and repayment/debt ratio (32% higher, P < 0.001). Oxylipins from the heart perfusates were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. The 14,15-EET/14,15-DHET ratio was 3.7-fold higher at baseline ( P < 0.001) and 5.6-fold higher post-ischemia ( P < 0.001) in sEH−/− compared with sEH+/+ mice. Likewise, the baseline 9,10- and 12,13-EpOME/DiHOME ratios were 3.2-fold ( P < 0.01) and 3.7-fold ( P < 0.001) higher, respectively in sEH−/− compared with sEH+/+ mice. 13-HODE was also significantly increased at baseline by 71% ( P < 0.01) in sEH−/− vs. sEH+/+ mice. Levels of 5-, 11-, 12-, and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids were not significantly different between the two strains ( P > 0.05), but were decreased postischemia in both groups ( P = 0.02, P = 0.04, P = 0.05, P = 0.03, respectively). Modulation of CRH by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) was demonstrated using a PPARγ-antagonist (T0070907), which reduced repayment volume by 25% in sEH+/+ ( P < 0.001) and 33% in sEH−/− mice ( P < 0.01), and a PPARγ-agonist (rosiglitazone), which increased repayment volume by 37% in both sEH+/+ ( P = 0.04) and sEH−/− mice ( P = 0.04). l-NAME attenuated CRH in both sEH−/− and sEH+/+. These data demonstrate that genetic deletion of sEH resulted in an altered oxylipin profile, which may have led to an enhanced CRH response.
Responses of non-eye-movement central vestibular neurons to sinusoidal yaw rotation in compensated macaques after unilateral semicircular canal plugging
Authors: Newlands Shawn D. , Wei Min , Morgan David , Luan Hongge
Published: August 2016

After vestibular labyrinth injury, behavioral measures of vestibular performance recover to variable degrees (vestibular compensation). Central neuronal responses after unilateral labyrinthectomy (UL), which eliminates both afferent resting activity and sensitivity to movement, have been well-studied. However, unilateral semicircular canal plugging (UCP), which attenuates angular-velocity detection while leaving afferent resting activity intact, has not been extensively studied. The current study reports response properties of yaw-sensitive non-eye-movement rhesus macaque vestibular neurons after compensation from UCP. The responses at a series of frequencies (0.1–2 Hz) and peak velocities (15–210°/s) were compared between neurons recorded before and at least 6 wk after UCP. The gain (sp/s/°/s) of central type I neurons (responding to ipsilateral yaw rotation) on the side of UCP was reduced relative to normal controls at 0.5 Hz, ±60°/s [0.48 ± 0.30 (SD) normal, 0.32 ± 0.15 ipsilesion; 0.44 ± 0.2 contralesion]. Type II neurons (responding to contralateral yaw rotation) after UCP have reduced gain (0.40 ± 0.27 normal, 0.35 ± 0.25 ipsilesion; 0.25 ± 0.18 contralesion). The difference between responses after UCP and after UL is primarily the distribution of type I and type II neurons in the vestibular nuclei (type I neurons comprise 66% in vestibular nuclei normally; 51% ipsilesion UCP; 59% contralesion UCP; 38% ipsilesion UL; 65% contralesion UL) and the magnitude of the responses of type II neurons ipsilateral to the lesion. These differences suggest that the need to compensate for unilateral loss of resting vestibular nerve activity after UL necessitates a different strategy for recovery of dynamic vestibular responses compared to after UCP.
Multistage Multiattribute Group Decision-Making Method Based on Triangular Fuzzy MULTIMOORA
Authors: Dai Wen-feng , Zhong Qiu-yan , Qi Chun-ze
Published: August 2016

This paper proposed a new multiattribute group decision-making method, in which the period significance coefficients and the attribute significance coefficients are completely unknown, and the attribute values are triangular fuzzy numbers. At first, to obtain the period significance coefficients, the period significance coefficients optimization model is constructed according to the time degree and the differences of the decision information in different periods. Then, attribute significance coefficients are determined by the maximum deviation method. Based on this, alternatives are ranked by the triangular fuzzy ratio system method, the triangular fuzzy reference point method, and the triangular fuzzy full multiplicative form, respectively. The dominance theory is used for aggregating the subordinate rankings into the final ranking. Finally, a numerical example is presented to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Numerical Study on Stability of Rock Slope Based on Energy Method
Authors: Gao Wei , Wang Xu , Dai Shuang , Chen Dongliang
Published: August 2016

To solve the main shortcoming of numerical method for analysis of the stability of rock slope, such as the selection the convergence condition for the strength reduction method, one method based on the minimum energy dissipation rate is proposed. In the new method, the basic principle of fractured rock slope failure, that is, the process of the propagation and coalescence for cracks in rock slope, is considered. Through analysis of one mining rock slope in western China, this new method is verified and compared with the generally used strength reduction method. The results show that the new method based on the minimum energy dissipation rate can be used to analyze the stability of the fractured rock slope and its result is very good. Moreover, the new method can obtain less safety factor for the rock slope than those by other methods. Therefore, the new method based on the minimum energy dissipation rate is a good method to analyze the stability of the fractured rock slope and should be superior to other generally used methods.
Flexural Behavior of Posttensioned Flat Plates Depending on Tendon Layout
Authors: Kim Min Sook , Lee Young Hak
Published: August 2016

This paper discusses the experimental results on the flexural behavior and deflections of posttensioned concrete flat plates depending on tendon layout. One reinforced concrete flat plate and two posttensioned concrete flat plates were manufactured and tested. One-way posttensioning layout and two-way posttensioning layout were considered in this paper. The load-deflection behavior and modes of crack are presented from the test results. Posttension systems effectively controlled crack and deflection. One-way and two-way posttensioning layouts both showed similar maximum load. However, serviceability improved with two-way posttensioning layout compared to one-way posttensioning layout. Also, the yield-line theory was applied to predict the ultimate load for the posttensioned flat plates. The comparison between the test results and estimation by yield-line analysis generally showed good agreement.
Multipath Load Balancing Routing for Internet of Things
Authors: Tseng Chinyang Henry
Published: August 2016

In the next-generation technology, Internet of Things (IoT), billions of smart objects will communicate with one another to make human lives more convenient. IoT is based on wireless sensor network (WSN), and Zigbee is one of the most popular WSN protocols. A mature IoT environment involves heavy WSN data transmission causing bottleneck problems. However, Zigbee’s AODV routing stack does not have load balance mechanism to handle bursty traffic. Therefore, we develop Multipath Load Balancing (MLB) Routing to substitute Zigbee’s AODV routing. Our proposed MLB consists of two main designs: LAYER_DESIGN and LOAD_BALANCE. LAYER_DESIGN assigns nodes into different layers based on node distance to IoT gateway. Nodes can have multiple next-hops delivering IoT data. All neighboring layer nodes exchange flow information containing current load, used by LOAD_BALANCE to estimate future load of next-hops. With MLB, nodes can choose the neighbors with the least load as the next-hops and thus can achieve load balance and avoid bottlenecks. Compared with Zigbee’s AODV and multipath version AODV (AOMDV), experiment results demonstrate that MLB achieves better load balance, lower packet loss rate, and better routing connectivity ratio in both grid and random uniform topologies. MLB provides a more convincing routing solution for IoT applications.
Visual Performance after Bilateral Implantation of a Four-Haptic Diffractive Toric Multifocal Intraocular Lens in High Myopes
Authors: Chang John S. M. , Chan Vincent K. C. , Ng Jack C. M. , Law Antony K. P.
Published: August 2016

Background. The vision with diffractive toric multifocal intraocular lenses after cataract surgery in long eyes has not been studied previously.Objectives. To report visual performance after bilateral implantation of a diffractive toric multifocal intraocular lens in high myopes.Methods. Prospective, observational case series to include patients with axial length of ≥26 mm and corneal astigmatism of >1 dioptre who underwent bilateral AT LISA 909M implantation. Postoperative examinations included photopic and mesopic distance, intermediate, and near visual acuity; photopic contrast sensitivity; visual symptoms (0–5); satisfaction (1–5); and spectacle independence rate.Results. Twenty-eight eyes (14 patients) were included. Postoperatively, mean photopic monocular uncorrected distance, intermediate, and near visual acuities (logMAR) were0.12±0.20(standard deviation),0.24±0.16, and0.29±0.21, respectively. Corresponding binocular values were-0.01±0.14,0.13±0.12, and0.20±0.19, respectively. One eye (4%) had one-line loss in vision. Under mesopic condition, intermediate vision and near vision decreased significantly (allP≤0.001). Contrast sensitivity at all spatial frequencies did not improve significantly under binocular condition (allP>0.05). Median scores for halos, night glare, starbursts, and satisfaction were 0.50, 0.00, 0.00, and 4.25, respectively. Ten patients (71%) reported complete spectacle independence.Conclusions. Bilateral implantation of the intraocular lens in high myopes appeared to be safe and achieved good visual performance and high satisfaction.
Positive Stabilization of Linear Differential Algebraic Equation System
Authors: Muhafzan
Published: August 2016

We study in this paper the existence of a feedback for linear differential algebraic equation system such that the closed-loop system is positive and stable. A necessary and sufficient condition for such existence has been established. This result can be used to detect the existence of a state feedback law that makes the linear differential algebraic equation system in closed loop positive and stable.
Optimal Decisions and Financing Strategies Selection of Supply Chain with Capital Constraint
Authors: Wang Bo , Huang De-Chun , Li Hai-yan , Ding Ji-Yong
Published: August 2016

Two financing modes can be considered for manufacturer’s production capital constrained: RPFM (retailer’s prepayment financing mode) and PCFM (procurement contract financing mode). Under the RPFM, the retailer places order in advance for a discount price and makes prepayment; manufacturer is able to finance from a bank as production quantity cannot satisfy the second-order quantity of retailer. By contrast, manufacturers make financing from commercial banks based on the procurement contract with upstream supplier under the PCFM. Taking into account the relation between production volumes with the manufacturer’s own capital and retailer’s order quantity, the optimal production and financing decision model for manufacturer under these two financing modes are built. Moreover, the profits of the manufacturer, the retailer, and the supply chain are compared and discussed. Results show that both of the two modes can create new value and profit for the supply chain with capital constraint and achieve optimal production under “newsvendor” mode; the supply chain has the better performance under the RPFM than that achieved under the PCFM. Also, under the RPFM, the manufacturer’s production and the profit of the whole supply chain would be increased when the manufacturer makes the second financing. Similar conclusion is reached under the PCFM. Finally, numerical study was given to demonstrate the conclusions.
A Few Observations on Health Service for Immigrants at a Primary Health Care Centre
Authors: Halldorsdottir Thorhildur , Jonsson Halldor , Gudmundsson Kristjan G.
Published: August 2016

Objective. Icelandic society is rapidly changing, from being an ethnically homogeneous population towards a multicultural immigrant society. In the hope of optimizing the service for immigrants at the health care centre, we decided to evaluate health care utilization by immigrants. Methods. As a case control study we invited all immigrants that attended the health care centre during a two-week period to participate. Paired controls of Icelanders were invited for comparison. Results. There were 57 immigrants, 48 females and 9 males, from 27 countries. Significantly more of the immigrant women were married, P<0.001. Interpreters were needed in 21% of the consultations. The immigrants often attended the clinic and had the same diagnoses as did the nonimmigrants. The immigrants evaluated the quality of the service in Iceland as 4.3 and the service in their homeland as 1.68, P<0.001. Conclusion. Immigrants attending a health care centre in Iceland came from all over the world, had the same diagnoses, and attended the clinic as often per annum as the nonimmigrants. Only one-fifth of them needed translators. The health and health care utilization of immigrants were similar to those of nonimmigrants.
The Natural Occurring Compounds Targeting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Liu Hai , Yang Jianqiong , Li Linfu , Shi Weimei , Yuan Xiaoliang , Wu Longhuo
Published: August 2016

ER stress has been implicated in pathophysiological development of many diseases. Persistent overwhelming stimuli trigger ER stress to initiate apoptosis, autophagy, and cell death. IRE1‐JNK and eIF2α‐CHOP signaling pathways are the two important players of ER stress, which is also modulated by ROS production, calcium disturbance, and inflammatory factors. ER stress has been developed as a novel strategy for diseases management. Recently, a vast of research focuses on the natural occurring compounds targeting ER stress, which results in medical benefits to human diseases. These small reported molecules mainly include polyphenols, alkaloids, and saponins. Many of them have been developed for use in clinical applications. To better understand the pharmacological mechanism of these molecules in ER stress in diseases, efforts have been made to discover and deliver medical merits. In this paper, we will summarize the natural occurring compounds targeting ER stress.
Accuracy of Hepatobiliary Scintigraphy after Liver Transplantation and Liver Resection
Authors: Eckenschwiller Manuel , Ackermann Hanns , Bechstein Wolf O. , Grünwald Frank
Published: August 2016

Background and Aims. Biliary complications are the most frequent complications after common liver surgeries. In this study, accuracy of hepatobiliary scintigraphy (HBS) and impact of hyperbilirubinemia were evaluated. Methods. Between November 2007 and February 2016, 131 patients underwent hepatobiliary scintigraphy after having liver surgery. 39 patients with 42 scans after LTX (n=13) or hepatic resection (n=26) were evaluated in the study; 27 were male, with mean age 60 years. The subjects underwent hepatobiliary scintigraphy with Tc-99m labeled Mebrofenin. The results were compared to ERCP as gold standard performed within one month after HBS. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV. We compared LTX patients to patients with other liver surgeries. Furthermore the influence of hyperbilirubinemia on HBS scans was evaluated. Results. HBS always provided the correct diagnosis in cases of bile leak in the liver-resected group (14/14). Overall diagnostic accuracy was 76% (19/25) in this group and 54% (7/13) in the LTX group. False negative (FN) diagnoses occurred more often among LTX patients (p=0.011). Hyperbilirubinemia (>5 mg/dL) significantly influenced the excretion function of the liver, prolonging HBS’s time-activity-curve (p=0.001). Conclusions. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy is a reliable tool to detect biliary complications, but reduced accuracy must be considered after LTX.
p-Channel and n-Channel Thin-Film-Transistor Operation on Sprayed ZnO Nanoparticle Layers
Authors: Itohara Daiki , Shinohara Kazato , Yoshida Toshiyuki , Fujita Yasuhisa
Published: August 2016

Both n-channel and p-channel thin-film transistors have been realized on ZnO nanoparticle (NP) layers sprayed onto quartz substrates. In this study, nitrogen-doped ZnO-NPs were synthesized using an arc-discharge-mediated gas-evaporation method that was recently developed. Sprayed NP layers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and Hall effect measurements. It was confirmed that p-type behaving NP layers can be obtained using ZnO-NPs synthesized with lower chamber pressure, whereas n-type conductivity can be obtained with higher chamber pressure. pn-junction diodes were also tested, resulting in clear rectifying characteristics. The possibility of particle-process-based ZnO-NP electronics was confirmed.
Extreme Wetting-Resistant Multiscale Nano-/Microstructured Surfaces for Viscoelastic Liquid Repellence
Authors: Chunglok Aoythip , Muensit Nantakan , Daengngam Chalongrat
Published: August 2016

We demonstrate exceptional wetting-resistant surfaces capable of repelling low surface tension, non-Newtonian, and highly viscoelastic liquids. Theoretical analysis and experimental result confirm that a higher level of multiscale roughness topography composed of at least three structural length scales, ranging from nanometer to supermicron sizes, is crucial for the reduction of liquid-solid adhesion hysteresis. With Cassie-Baxter nonwetting state satisfied at all roughness length scales, the surface has been proven to effectively repel even highly adhesive liquid. Practically, this high-level hierarchical structure can be achieved through fractal-like structures of silica aggregates induced by siloxane oligomer interparticle bridges. The induced aggregation and surface functionalization of the silica particles can be performed simultaneously within a single reaction step, by utilizing trifunctional fluoroalkylsilane precursors that largely form a disordered fluoroalkylsiloxane grafting layer under the presence of sufficient native moisture preadsorbed at the silica surface. Spray-coating deposition of a particle surface layer on a precoated primer layer ensures facile processability and scalability of the fabrication method. The resulting low-surface-energy multiscale roughness exhibits outstanding liquid repellent properties, generating equivalent lotus effect for highly viscous and adhesive natural latex concentrate, with apparent contact angles greater than 160°, and very small roll-off angles of less than 3°.
Recurrent PPP2R1A Mutations in Uterine Cancer Act through a Dominant-Negative Mechanism to Promote Malignant Cell Growth
Authors: Haesen Dorien , Abbasi Asbagh Layka , Derua Rita , Hubert Antoine , Schrauwen Stefanie , Hoorne Yana , Amant Frédéric , Waelkens Etienne , Sablina Anna , Janssens Veerle
Published: August 2016

Somatic missense mutations in the Ser/Thr protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) Aα scaffold subunit gene PPP2R1A are among the few genomic alterations that occur frequently in serous endometrial carcinoma (EC) and carcinosarcoma, two clinically aggressive subtypes of uterine cancer with few therapeutic options. Previous studies reported that cancer-associated Aα mutants exhibit defects in binding to other PP2A subunits and contribute to cancer development by a mechanism of haploinsufficiency. Here we report on the functional significance of the most recurrent PPP2R1A mutations in human EC, which cluster in Aα HEAT repeats 5 and 7. Beyond predicted loss-of-function effects on the formation of a subset of PP2A holoenzymes, we discovered that Aα mutants behave in a dominant-negative manner due to gain-of-function interactions with the PP2A inhibitor TIPRL1. Dominant-negative Aα mutants retain binding to specific subunits of the B56/B′ family and form substrate trapping complexes with impaired phosphatase activity via increased recruitment of TIPRL1. Accordingly, overexpression of the Aα mutants in EC cells harboring wild-type PPP2R1A increased anchorage-independent growth and tumor formation, and triggered hyperphosphorylation of oncogenic PP2A-B56/B′ substrates in the GSK3β, Akt, and mTOR/p70S6K signaling pathways. TIPRL1 silencing restored GSK3β phosphorylation and rescued the EC cell growth advantage. Our results reveal how PPP2R1A mutations affect PP2A function and oncogenic signaling, illuminating the genetic basis for serous EC development and its potential control by rationally targeted therapies. Cancer Res; 76(19); 5719–31. ©2016 AACR.
A Novel Small Molecule Activator of Nuclear Receptor SHP Inhibits HCC Cell Migration via Suppressing Ccl2
Authors: Yang Zhihong , Koehler Angela N. , Wang Li
Published: August 2016

Small heterodimer partner (SHP, NR0B2) is a nuclear orphan receptor without endogenous ligands. Due to its crucial inhibitory role in liver cancer, it is of importance to identify small molecule agonists of SHP. As such, we initiated a probe discovery effort to identify compounds capable of modulating SHP function. First, we performed binding assays using small molecule microarrays (SMM) and discovered 5-(diethylsulfamoyl)-3-hydroxynaphthalene-2-carboxylic acid (DSHN) as a novel activator of SHP. DSHN transcriptionally activated Shp mRNA, but also stabilized the SHP protein by preventing its ubiquitination and degradation. Second, we identified Ccl2 as a new SHP target gene by RNA-seq. We showed that activation of SHP by DSHN repressed Ccl2 expression and secretion by inhibiting p65 activation of CCL2 promoter activity, as demonstrated in vivo in Shp−/− mice and in vitro in HCC cells with SHP overexpression and knockdown. Third, we elucidated a strong inhibitory effect of SHP and DSHN on HCC cell migration and invasion by antagonizing the effect of CCL2. Lastly, by interrogating a publicly available database to retrieve SHP expression profiles from multiple types of human cancers, we established a negative association of SHP expression with human cancer metastasis and patient survival. In summary, the discovery of a novel small molecule activator of SHP provides a therapeutic perspective for future translational and preclinical studies to inhibit HCC metastasis by blocking Ccl2 signaling. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(10); 2294–301. ©2016 AACR.
Immunoglobulin G4-Related Ophthalmic Disease Involving the Sclera Misdiagnosed as Intraocular Tumor: Report of One Case
Authors: Goto Hiroshi , Ueda Shunichiro
Published: August 2016

Aims: Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related disease is known to have diverse clinical manifestations. We report a case of IgG4-related ophthalmic disease misdiagnosed as intraocular tumor. Methods: Case report. Results: A 41-year-old man was referred to our department with a diagnosis of intraocular tumor, presumably choroidal melanoma. Although MR imaging was compatible with choroidal melanoma, he had been observed periodically without treatment because fundus findings were not typical of melanoma and visual function was preserved. He was again referred to us 15 years later due to increased tumor size and visual field disturbance. Transscleral biopsy of the intraocular tumor was attempted to make a histopathological diagnosis. During the biopsy procedure, thick placoid tissue adhering to the sclera was found at a location consistent with the site of the elevated intraocular lesion. Histopathological examination of this extraocular material revealed proliferation of dense fibrous tissue with follicular proliferation of lymphocytes and plasmacytes. The plasmacytes were diffusely positive for IgG and IgG4. Serum IgG4 level was slightly elevated and no extraocular lesion was detected. Despite administration of systemic corticosteroids after biopsy, the intraocular mass was not reduced. Visual acuity of 20/20 has been maintained as of the last follow-up. Conclusion: IgG4-related disease should be included in the differential diagnosis of intraocular elevated lesion.
Possible Underlying Mechanisms of the Renoprotective Effect of Remote Limb Ischemic Preconditioning Against Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury: A Role of Osteopontin, Transforming Growth Factor-Beta and Survivin
Authors: Hussein Abdelaziz M. , Sakr Hussein F. , Alenzi Faris Q.
Published: August 2016

Background: It has been documented that remote limb ischemic preconditioning (rIPC) protect kidneys against renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). We hypothesized that osteopontin (OPN), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), apoptotic proteins (survivin and caspase-3) and oxidative stress play role in the renoprotective effects of rIPC. Materials and Methods: Fifty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into 3 equal groups: sham group, I/R group (left renal 45 min ischemia) and rIPC group (as I/R group with 3 cycles of left hind limb ischemia just before renal ischemia). Each group was subdivided into 24, 48 and 72 h groups according to the time of sacrifice. We measured serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) at the baseline and end points. Also, left kidney was harvested at study end points for assessment of the expression of OPN, TGF-β, apoptotic proteins (survivin and caspase-3) and oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) in kidney tissues and histopathological examination. Results: Serum creatinine and BUN levels and histopathological damage score were significantly lower in rIPC group than I/R group (p < 0.005). Also, compared to I/R group, the levels of MDA and the expression of OPN, TGF-β and caspase-3 in kidney tissues were significantly lower in rIPC group, while the levels of SOD and GSH and the expression of survivin in kidney tissues were significantly higher in rIPC group at all time points (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: rIPC exhibited protective effects against renal I/R injury which might be due to inhibition of OPN expression, inflammatory cytokine TGF-β and caspase-3 and activation of anti-apoptotic protein survivin as well as improvement of oxidative stress in kidney tissues.
Fetoscopic Endoluminal Tracheal Occlusion in Fetuses with Severe Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Three-Year Single-Center Experience
Authors: Persico Nicola , Fabietti Isabella , Ciralli Fabrizio , Gentilino Valerio , D'Ambrosi Francesco , Boito Simona , Ossola Manuela Wally , Colnaghi Mariarosa , Condò Valentina , Macchini Francesco , Leva Ernesto , Mosca Fabio , Fedele Luigi
Published: August 2016

Objective: To report on our experience in the prenatal treatment of severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) by fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO). Methods: Between 2012 and 2014, FETO was performed at our center in 21 cases of CDH considered to be severe based on sonographic measurement of observed/expected lung-to-head ratio (O/E LHR) and side of the defect. We reported pre- and postoperative ultrasound findings, procedure-related complications, pregnancy outcome and survival at 1-3 years of age. Results: The median gestational age (GA) at balloon insertion was 28.1 weeks (range 26.0-31.1) and the median GA at delivery 34.7 weeks (range 31.6-39.0); delivery before 32 and 34 weeks occurred in 2 (9.5%) and 7 (33.3%) cases, respectively. Postnatal survival at 1-3 years of age in the 17 cases with isolated unilateral CDH was 47.1%. The percentage difference between pre-balloon removal O/E LHR and pre-FETO O/E LHR was significantly higher in survivors compared to neonates who died (40.8 vs. 21.2%, respectively; p < 0.05). Conclusions: In this study, FETO was associated with an infant survival of 47% in cases with isolated unilateral severe CDH. The post-FETO increase in O/E LHR was higher in fetuses that survived compared to those who died.
Assessing Optimal Blood Pressure in Patients With Asymptomatic Aortic Valve Stenosis
Authors: Nielsen Olav W. , Sajadieh Ahmad , Sabbah Muhammad , Greve Anders M. , Olsen Michael H. , Boman Kurt , Nienaber Christoph A. , Kesäniemi Y. Antero , Pedersen Terje R. , Willenheimer Ronnie , Wachtell Kristian
Published: August 2016

Background:

Evidence for treating hypertension in patients with asymptomatic aortic valve stenosis is scarce. We used data from the SEAS trial (Simvastatin Ezetimibe in Aortic Stenosis) to assess what blood pressure (BP) would be optimal.

Methods:

A total of 1767 patients with asymptomatic aortic stenosis and no manifest atherosclerotic disease were analyzed. Outcomes were all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, heart failure, stroke, myocardial infarction, and aortic valve replacement. BP was analyzed in Cox models as the cumulative average of serially measured BP and a time-varying covariate.

Results:

The incidence of all-cause mortality was highest for average follow-up systolic BP ≥160 mm Hg (4.3 per 100 person-years; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.1–6.0) and lowest for average systolic BP of 120 to 139 mm Hg (2.0 per 100 person-years; 95% CI, 1.6–2.6). In multivariable analysis, all-cause mortality was associated with average systolic BP <120 mm Hg (hazard ratio [HR], 3.4; 95% CI, 1.9–6.1), diastolic BP ≥90 mm Hg (HR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1–2.9), and pulse pressure <50 mm Hg (HR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1–2.9), with systolic BP of 120 to 139 mm Hg, diastolic BP of 70 to 79 mm Hg, and pulse pressure of 60 to 69 mm Hg taken as reference. Low systolic and diastolic BPs increased risk in patients with moderate aortic stenosis. With a time-varying systolic BP from 130 to 139 mm Hg used as reference, mortality was increased for systolic BP ≥160 mm Hg (HR, 1.7;
P
=0.033) and BP of 120 to 129 mm Hg (HR, 1.6;
P
=0.039).

Conclusions:

Optimal BP seems to be systolic BP of 130 to 139 mm Hg and diastolic BP of 70 to 90 mm Hg in these patients with asymptomatic aortic stenosis and no manifest atherosclerotic disease or diabetes mellitus.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00092677.
The Non-Reading Reader: European Hebrew Literature at the Turn of the 20th Century
Authors: Nethanel Lilach
Published: August 2016

European Hebrew literature presents a challenge to the study of early-twentieth-century national literature. By the end of the nineteenth century, the reading of modern Hebrew in Europe was neither part of a religious practice, nor did it merely satisfy a purely aesthetic inclination. It mainly functioned as an ideological means used by a minority of Jews to support the linguistic-national Jewish revival. However, some fundamental contradictions put into question the actual influence of this literature on the political sphere. This article asks a series of questions about this period in the history of Hebrew readership: How did the non-spoken Hebrew language come to produce popular Hebrew writings? How did this literature engage the common Jewish reader? In this article I propose a new consideration of Hebrew reading practices. I argue for the inclusion of the non-reading readers as important contributors to the constitution of the Jewish literary nation.
Taxonomic revision of Intybia Pascoe, 1886 species (Coleoptera, Malachiidae) of Thailand and Philippines
Authors: TSHERNYSHEV SERGEI E.
Published: August 2016

The taxonomic composition of Intybia-group species of Thailand and Philippines is revised. The genus Intybia Pascoe, 1886 and the type species I. guttata Pascoe, 1866 are studied and redescribed in detail. Seven species with maculate elytra and sculptured head, T. doipuiensis (Wittmer, 1997), comb. n., T. luzonica (Wittmer, 1997), comb. n., T. mindoroica (Wittmer, 1997), comb. n., T. prudeki (Wittmer, 1997), comb. n., T. thainiensis (Wittmer, 1997), comb. n., T. palawana (Pic, 1910), comb. n. and T. testaceicornis (Pic, 1944) (provisionally) are transferred from Laius Guérin-Méneville, 1831 to Troglointybia Tshernyshev, 2015, and 12 species of Laius Guérin-Méneville with maculate elytra, simple head and lacking tarsal comb in male, I. alboarcuata (Champion, 1921), comb. n., I. balteata (Erichson, 1840), comb. n., I. boettcheri (Wittmer, 1941), comb. n., I. confluens (Wittmer, 1941), comb. n., I. dentatithorax (Pic, 1917), comb. n., I. quadristrigata (Champion, 1921), comb. n., I. subcarinata (Champion, 1921), comb. n., I. subdentata (Champion, 1921), comb. n., I. tetrops (Champion, 1921), comb. n., I. waterstradti (Pic, 1910), comb. n. I. nitidus (Pic, 1948), comb. n. and I. semidepressus (Pic, 1917), comb. n. (the latter two species provisionally) are transferred to Intybia Pascoe. Two species, Intybia korshunovi Tshernyshev, sp. n. from Thailand and I. plonskii Tshernyshev, sp. n. from Philippines are described as new. I. jucunda (Bourgeois, 1891) is recorded for Thailand and Sri-Lanka for the first time. Figures of external appearance, antennae, genitalia, and a distribution map for newly recorded species are provided, and the holotype of I. guttata Pascoe is illustrated.
Sensitivity of Axisymmetric Tropical Cyclone Spinup Time to Dry Air Aloft
Authors: Tang Brian H. , Rios-Berrios Rosimar , Alland Joshua J. , Berman Jeremy D. , Corbosiero Kristen L.
Published: August 2016

The sensitivity of tropical cyclone spinup time to the initial entropy deficit of the troposphere is examined in an axisymmetric hurricane model. Larger initial entropy deficits correspond to less moisture above the initial lifting condensation level of a subcloud-layer parcel. The spinup time is quantified in terms of thresholds of integrated horizontal kinetic energy within a radius of 300 km and below a height of 1.5 km. The spinup time increases sublinearly with increasing entropy deficit, indicating the greatest sensitivity lies with initial moisture profiles closer to saturation. As the moisture profile approaches saturation, there is a large increase in the low-level, area-averaged, vertical mass flux over the spinup period because of the predominance of deep convection. Higher entropy deficit experiments have a greater amount of cumulus congestus and reduced vertical mass flux over a longer duration. Consequently, the secondary circulation takes longer to build upward, and the radial influx of angular momentum is reduced. There is also a reduction in the conversion of potential available enthalpy to horizontal kinetic energy, as a result of reduced flow down the radial pressure gradient early in the spinup period. Later in the spinup period, the low-level vortex spins up relatively quickly near the nascent radius of maximum wind in the high-entropy deficit experiments, whereas the low-level vortex spins up over a wider area in the low-entropy deficit experiments.
Assessing the Radiative Effects of Global Ice Clouds Based on CloudSat and CALIPSO Measurements
Authors: Hong Yulan , Liu Guosheng , Li J.-L. F.
Published: August 2016

Although it is well established that cirrus warms Earth, the radiative effect of the entire spectrum of ice clouds is not well understood. In this study, the role of all ice clouds in Earth’s radiation budget is investigated by performing radiative transfer modeling using ice cloud properties retrieved from CloudSat and CALIPSO measurements as inputs. Results show that, for the 2008 period, the warming effect (~21.8 ± 5.4 W m−2) induced by ice clouds trapping longwave radiation exceeds their cooling effect (~−16.7 ± 1.7 W m−2) caused by shortwave reflection, resulting in a net warming effect (~5.1 ± 3.8 W m−2) globally on the earth–atmosphere system. The net warming is over 15 W m−2 in the tropical deep convective regions, whereas cooling occurs in the midlatitudes, which is less than 10 W m−2 in magnitude. Seasonal variations of ice cloud radiative effects are evident in the midlatitudes where the net effect changes from warming during winter to cooling during summer, whereas warming occurs all year-round in the tropics. Ice cloud optical depth τ is shown to be an important factor in determining the sign and magnitude of the net radiative effect. Ice clouds with τ < 4.6 display a warming effect with the largest contributions from those with τ ≈ 1.0. In addition, ice clouds cause vertically differential heating and cooling of the atmosphere, particularly with strong heating in the upper troposphere over the tropics. At Earth’s surface, ice clouds produce a cooling effect no matter how small the τ value is.
Characterization, synthetic generation, and statistical equivalence of composite microstructures
Authors: Sanei Seyed Hamid Reza , Barsotti Ercole J , Leonhardt David , Fertig Ray S
Published: August 2016

Mechanical behavior and reliability of composites are driven significantly by microstructural variability. Such variability can be present in the form of both morphological and constituent property variability. To understand the effect of this variability on macroscopic mechanical behavior, many statistically equivalent microstructures must be evaluated. This requires the ability to generate such microstructures. In this work, morphological variability was quantified by image analysis of actual microstructures. To reproduce this variability, a methodology was developed in which random microstructures are generated and subsequently adjusted to simultaneously match both short- and long-range statistics of actual microstructures. Synthetic microstructures were generated at a length scale of 70 µm, corresponding to the length scale at which fiber volume fractions of adjacent microstructures are uncorrelated. The utility of this methodology was also demonstrated for larger microstructures containing defects such as alignment fibers, voids and resin seams.