bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New perspectives on the conservative management of osteoradionecrosis of the mandible: A literature review
Authors: Costa Diogo Alpuim , Costa Tiago Porfírio , Netto Eduardo Carlinhos , Joaquim Natércia , Ventura Isabel , Pratas Ana Cristina , Winckler Patrícia , Silva Inês Pires , Pinho Ana Catarina , Sargento Isabel Goulão , Guerreiro Francisco Gamito , Moreira António Rita
Published: May 2016

Over the last decades, several therapeutic options were considered in the treatment of the osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the mandible, including supportive measures, ultrasound therapy, corticosteroids, hyperbaric oxygen, surgical resection with reconstruction, and, more recently, drugs capable of reversing the fibroatrophic process. Once established, the ORN does not spontaneously disappear and a standard treatment has not yet been defined. The clear clinical effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) varies according to the literature and there are some economic/logistic issues to be considered; the triplet tocopherol/pentoxifylline/clodronate demands greater evidence from randomized clinical trials and also resilience from the patient, given the long treatment duration and its possible side effects. Controversy around the ideal treatment of the initial stage ORN of the mandible persists. More rigorous randomized prospective trials are essential. The purpose of this article was to review the relevant literature on the physiopathology of ORN of the mandible and discuss the new perspectives of its conservative treatment. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1708–1716, 2016
An improved representation of geographically isolated wetlands in a watershed‐scale hydrologic model
Authors: Evenson Grey R. , Golden Heather E. , Lane Charles R. , D'Amico Ellen
Published: May 2016

Geographically isolated wetlands (GIWs), defined as wetlands surrounded by uplands, provide an array of ecosystem goods and services. Within the United States, federal regulatory protections for GIWs are contingent, in part, on the quantification of their singular or aggregate effects on the hydrological, biological, or chemical integrity of waterways regulated by the Clean Water Act (CWA). However, limited tools are available to assess the downgradient effects of GIWs. We constructed a Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model with improved representations of GIW hydrologic processes for the approximately 1700 km2 Pipestem Creek watershed in the Prairie Pothole Region of North Dakota, USA. We then executed a series of novel modifications on the Pipestem Creek SWAT model. We (1) redefined the model's hydrologic response unit spatial boundaries to conform to mapped GIWs and associated watershed boundaries, (2) constructed a series of new model input files to direct the simulation of GIW fill–spill hydrology and upland flows to GIWs, and (3) modified the model source code to facilitate use of the new SWAT input files and improve GIW water balance simulations. We then calibrated and verified our modified SWAT model at a daily time step from 2009 through 2013. Simulation results indicated good predictive power (the maximum Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency statistic was 0.86) and an acceptable range of uncertainty (measured using the Sequential Uncertainty Fitting v.2 uncertainty statistics). Simulation results additionally indicated good model performance with respect to GIW water balance simulations based on literature‐based descriptions of regional GIW hydrologic behaviour. Our modified SWAT model represents a critical step in advancing scientific understandings of the watershed‐scale hydrologic effects of GIWs and provides a novel method for future assessments in different watersheds and physiographic regions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Haplotypes of the MTHFR gene are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer in a Han Chinese population in Gansu province
Authors: Song Ailing , Zhao Lei , Li Yumin , Wu Li , Li Yu , Liu Xiaokang , Lan Shen
Published: May 2016

Elevated homocysteine levels are a risk factor for breast cancer, although the mechanism underlying this effect is unknown. Genome‐wide association studies were used to systematically identify genetic variants which were significantly associated with the circulating homocysteine concentration. To examine the role of homocysteine‐related variants in the occurrence of breast cancer, we investigated the association between these variants and breast cancer in a Han Chinese population. Five variants of genome‐wide significant homocysteine‐related genes were selected for the analysis in a case–control study, with a total of 487 patients with breast cancer and 605 controls. We found that none of the studied polymorphisms were related to the altered breast cancer risk. In the haplotypic analysis, the 5,10‐methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) haplotypes rs12085006A/rs1999594G/rs1801133C (OR = 3.44, 95% CI = 1.58–7.50, P = 0.0019) and rs12085006A/rs1999594G/rs1801133T (OR = 16.21, 95% CI = 2.19– 120.32, P = 0.0065) were significantly associated with an increased breast cancer risk when compared with the wild‐type haplotype. Both of the risky MTHFR haplotypes were correlated with decreased MTHFR gene expression and elevated homocysteine concentrations, indicating a genetic component for hyperhomocysteinemia. The MTHFR haplotypes reconstructed with homocysteine‐related variants were associated with the occurrence of breast cancer. This finding further emphasizes the importance of homocysteine metabolism genes in breast carcinogenesis and highlights the interplay of diet, genetics, and human cancers. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 68(7):526–534, 2016
Relevance of charge balance and hyaluronic acid on alginate‐chitosan sponge microstructure and its influence on fibroblast growth
Authors: Orellana Sandra L. , Giacaman Annesi , Pavicic Francisca , Vidal Alejandra , Moreno‐Villoslada Ignacio , Concha Miguel
Published: May 2016

The study of biomaterials by electrical charge scaling to explore the role of net charge on biocompatibility and suitability for tissue regeneration has been limited as has the search for products that could improve this first‐rate variable. In the present study, we prepared sponges composed of chitosan/alginate (CS/ALG) with or without hyaluronic acid (HA) by mixing polymer stock solutions of different net electric charge ratios (n+/n−), and then lyophilizing them to obtain porous materials. The electric charge ratios n+/n− studied were 0.3, 0.8, 1.0, and 2.5 for CS/ALG and 0.3, 1.0, 1.9, and 3.7 for CS/ALG/HA sponges. Under these conditions a role for net electric charge balance over sponge microstructure rearrangement, protection to dissolution, cellular proliferation, and cell–cell interactions was apparent, effects that were enhanced by copolymer modification with HA. Mass balance, electric charge, and specific products that influence both such as HA, have a potential in biomaterials for wound healing. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 2537–2543, 2016.
Bis‐Pyrano Prenyl Isoflavone Improves Glucose Homeostasis by Inhibiting Dipeptidyl Peptidase‐4 in Hyperglycemic Rats
Authors: Altenhofen Delsi , da Luz Gabrielle , Frederico Marisa Jádna Silva , Venzke Dalila , Brich Mayara , Vigil Silvana , Fröde Tania Silvia , Linares Carlos Eduardo Blanco , Pizzolatti Moacir Geraldo , Silva Fátima Regina Mena Barreto
Published: May 2016

Isoflavones widely distributed in plants prevent diabetes. This study investigated the in vivo and in vitro effect of 3′,4′‐dihydroxy‐6″,6″,6″′,6″′‐tetramethylbis(pyrano[2″,3″:5,6::2″′,3″′:7,8]isoflavone (bis‐pyrano prenyl isoflavone) on glucose homeostasis in hyperglycemic rats. The ethyl acetate fraction from aerial parts of Polygala molluginifolia that contain isoflavones was assayed on glucose tolerance, on in vitro maltase activity and on protein glycation. The isoflavone bis‐pyrano prenyl isolated from this fraction was investigated on glucose homeostasis. The in vivo action of the isoflavone exhibits an anti‐hyperglycemic effect by improving glucose tolerance, augmenting the liver glycogen, inhibiting maltase activity, and stimulating glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and insulin secretion. The in vitro isoflavone inhibits dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) activity since the glucose tolerance was improved in the presence of the isoflavone as much as sitagliptin, an inhibitor of DPP‐4. However, the co‐incubation with isoflavone and sitagliptin exhibited an additive anti‐hyperglycemic action. The isoflavone increased the GLP‐1 faster than the positive hyperglycemic group, which shows that the intestine is a potential target. Thus, to clarify the main site of action in which isoflavone improves glucose balance, the in vitro mechanism of action of this compound was tested in intestine using calcium influx as a trigger for the signal pathways for GLP‐1 secretion. The isoflavone stimulates calcium influx in intestine and its mechanism involves voltage‐dependent calcium channels, phospholipase C, protein kinase C, and stored calcium contributing for GLP‐1 secretion. In conclusion, the isoflavone regulates glycaemia by acting mainly in a serum target, the DPP‐4 inhibitor. Furthermore, the long‐term effect of isoflavone prevents protein glycation. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 92–103, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electron correlation in the interacting quantum atoms partition via coupled‐cluster lagrangian densities
Authors: Holguín‐Gallego Fernando José , Chávez‐Calvillo Rodrigo , García‐Revilla Marco , Francisco Evelio , Pendás Ángel Martín , Rocha‐Rinza Tomás
Published: May 2016

The electronic energy partition established by the Interacting Quantum Atoms (IQA) approach is an important method of wavefunction analyses which has yielded valuable insights about different phenomena in physical chemistry. Most of the IQA applications have relied upon approximations, which do not include either dynamical correlation (DC) such as Hartree‐Fock (HF) or external DC like CASSCF theory. Recently, DC was included in the IQA method by means of HF/Coupled‐Cluster (CC) transition densities (Chávez‐Calvillo et al.,Comput. Theory Chem. 2015,1053, 90). Despite the potential utility of this approach, it has a few drawbacks, for example, it is not consistent with the calculation of CC properties different from the total electronic energy. To improve this situation, we have implemented the IQA energy partition based on CC Lagrangian one‐ and two‐electron orbital density matrices. The development presented in this article is tested and illustrated with the H2, LiH, H2O, H2S, N2, and CO molecules for which the IQA results obtained under the consideration of (i) the CC Lagrangian, (ii) HF/CC transition densities, and (iii) HF are critically analyzed and compared. Additionally, the effect of the DC in the different components of the electronic energy in the formation of the T‐shaped (H2)2van der Waals cluster and the bimolecular nucleophilic substitution between F–and CH3F is examined. We anticipate that the approach put forward in this article will provide new understandings on subjects in physical chemistry wherein DC plays a crucial role like molecular interactions along with chemical bonding and reactivity. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Complete Solution to the Existence of ‐Cycle Frames of Type
Authors: Buratti M. , Cao H. , Dai D. , Traetta T.
Published: May 2016

The existence problem of a‐cycle frame of typeis now solved for any quadruple.
Rapid Identification of Klebsiella pneumoniae by Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization‐Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry and Detection of Meropenem Resistance by Flow Cytometric Assay
Authors: Kilic Abdullah , Dogan Eyup , Kaya Sinem , Oren Sema , Tok Duran , Ardic Nurittin , Baysallar Mehmet
Published: May 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to develop a rapid detection method of carbapenem‐resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) strains both MALDI‐TOF MS and flow cytometry (FCM).

Methods

A total of 174 K. pneumoniae strains were included in this study. Molecular characterization of carbapenemase gene was performed by PCR. Bacterial identification was performed by MALDI‐TOF‐MS. Meropenem susceptibility was tested at the concentrations of breakpoints described by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guide by FCM.

Results

Sixty‐two CRKP were positive for at least one carbapenemase gene. A total of 174 K. pneumoniae isolates obtained from clinically relevant material were correctly identified by Bruker MALDI‐TOF MS with log (score) >2.0. These results were 100% concordant with the Phoenix™ Automated Microbiology System (BD, MD) and conventional identification results. Based on the analysis of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the best validity and sensitivity data were obtained with a cut‐off value of 18.88% by FCM. The concordance, sensitivity, and specificity for FCM by the selected cut‐off values were 99.4%, 98.9%, and 100%, respectively.

Conclusions

We conclude that reliable results on bacterial identification and meropenem susceptibility test can be obtained within 2 hr combined by MALDI‐TOF‐MS and FCM.
Increased Frequency of Th17 Cells in Children With Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Chen Xiaojun , Tang Heng , Zhu Jifeng , Zhou Sha , Xu Zhipeng , Liu Feng , Su Chuan
Published: May 2016

Background

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae, MP) is recognized globally as a significant cause of primary atypical pneumonia in humans, particularly in children. Overzealous host immune responses are viewed as key mediators of the pathogenesis of M. pneumoniae infection. Although Th17 cells have been identified as key modulators in the clearance of pathogens and induction of autoimmunity caused by excessive immune responses, little is known about the role of Th17 cells in patients with M. pneumoniae infection.

Methods

The percentages of T cells, CD4+ T cells and Th17 cells in children with M. pneumoniae infection were measured by flow cytometry.

Results

We documented an increased frequency of Th17 cells in children with M. pneumoniae infection. Furthermore, we found a significantly higher percentage of Th17 cells in M. pneumoniae‐infected children with extrapulmonary manifestations, compared with children without extrapulmonary manifestations. In addition, patients who experienced a short course of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) showed an increase in the percentage of Th17 cells.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that Th17 cells may be involved in the clearance of M. pneumoniae during an acute infection. Excessive Th17 cell responses may also contribute to the immuno‐pathological damage observed during persistent infection.
Encapsulation of the p38 MAPK inhibitor GSK 678361A in nanoparticles for inflammatory‐based disease states
Authors: Bains Baljinder K , Greene Michelle K , McGirr Leona M , Dorman Jay , Farrow Stuart N , Scott Christopher J
Published: May 2016

Inhibitors of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) are currently being pursued as therapeutics in inflammatory conditions, but many candidates have demonstrated limited efficacy or toxicity issues to date. Nanoformulation of p38 MAPK inhibitors may overcome these challenges, by enabling controlled release and targeted delivery. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop a nanoformulation of the p38 MAPK inhibitor GSK 678361A and subsequently validate its anti‐inflammatory efficacy in vitro, versus the drug in its free format. Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanoparticles encapsulating GSK 678361A were prepared via a salting‐out method and characterised by photon correlation spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and high‐performance liquid chromatography. The anti‐inflammatory effect of both free and nanoformulated GSK 678361A was evaluated in cultures of lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated macrophages, with subsequent enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay analysis of TNF‐α and IL‐6 providing readouts of efficacy. A controlled release nanoformulation of GSK 678361A was successfully developed, with physicochemical characterisation revealing an average particle diameter of 115.5 ± 3.5 nm and polydispersity index of 0.13 ± 0.03, indicative of a homogeneous size distribution. GSK 678361A loading was quantified at 10.1 ± 0.4 µg per mg of poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid), equating to an entrapment efficiency of approximately 50%. When tested in cultures of lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated macrophages, GSK 678361A nanoparticles inhibited the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines to an extent that was largely comparable with the free drug, although superior efficacy of the nanoformulation was observed at selected doses. These studies indicate that GSK 678361A may be successfully nanoformulated without loss of drug activity, warranting further evaluation in models of inflammation in vivo. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Interdisciplinary Nanomedicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd and the British Society for Nanomedicine
Microtubule‐dependent changes in morphology and localization of chloride transport proteins in gill mitochondria‐rich cells of the tilapia, Oreochromis mossambicus
Authors: Yang Wen‐Kai , Wu Yu‐Ching , Tang Cheng‐Hao , Lee Tsung‐Han
Published: May 2016

The tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) is a euryhaline fish exhibiting adaptive changes in cell size, phenotype, and ionoregulatory functions upon salinity challenge. Na+/Cl− cotransporter (NCC) and Na+/K+/2Cl− cotransporter (NKCC) are localized in the apical and basolateral membranes of mitochondria‐rich (MR) cells of the gills. These cells are responsible for chloride absorption (NCC) and secretion (NKCC), respectively, thus, the switch of gill NCC and NKCC expression is a crucial regulatory mechanism for salinity adaptation in tilapia. However, little is known about the interaction of cytoskeleton and these adaptive changes. In this study, we examined the time‐course of changes in the localization of NKCC/NCC in the gills of tilapia transferred from fresh water (FW) to brackish water (20‰) and from seawater (SW; 35‰) to FW. The results showed that basolateral NKCC disappeared and NCC was expressed in the apical membrane of MR cells. To further clarify the process of these adaptive changes, colchicine, a specific inhibitor of microtubule‐dependent cellular regulating processes was used. SW‐acclimated tilapia were transferred to SW, FW, and FW with colchicine (colchicine‐FW) for 96 h. Compared with the FW‐treatment group, in the MR cells of colchicine‐FW‐treatment group, (1) the average size was significantly larger, (2) only wavy‐convex‐subtype apical surfaces were found, and (3) the basolateral (cytoplasmic) NKCC signals were still exhibited. Taken together, our results suggest that changes in size, phenotype, as well as the expression of NCC and NKCC cotransporters of MR cells in the tilapia are microtubule‐dependent. J. Morphol. 277:1113–1122, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Geographically weighted regression based quantification of rainfall–topography relationship and rainfall gradient in Central Himalayas
Authors: Kumari Madhuri , Singh Chander Kumar , Bakimchandra Oinam , Basistha Ashoke
Published: May 2016

Modelling of the relationship between rainfall and topography is important for precipitation mapping in mountainous regions. Global regression techniques like ordinary least square (OLS) assume that the relationship is uniform across the study area. In complex terrains like the Himalayas, the rainfall–topography relationship is non‐stationary and can be better modelled using local geographically weighted regression (GWR) technique that incorporates spatial heterogeneity. This study quantifies the spatial variability of relationship strength between rainfall and the topography of Central Himalayas, India, using GWR model. Further, the variation in rainfall gradient of the study area was derived from the modelled rainfall‐elevation relationship. The topographic parameters of elevation (E), slope (S) and terrain ruggedness index (TRI) computed from digital elevation model were considered for the analysis. For exploring the effect of stratification on the relationship study, the rainfall data were grouped into lowland and upland data based on terrain homogeneity. With higher coefficient of determination (R2), GWR showed improved result over OLS for all the cases. For annual rainfall, GWR(E) (R2 = 0.53), GWR(S) (R2 = 0.79) and GWR(TRI) (R2 = 0.60) estimated the best result for complete, lowland and upland, respectively. As compared to OLS, the coefficient of determination was higher by 90, 22.5 and 18%, respectively. The annual rainfall gradient derived from regression parameters of the model ranged from 1.33 mm m−1 (R2 = 0.53) in northwest to zero in southeast as against a constant value of 0.14 mm m−1 obtained from OLS model. For the subdivided region, annual rainfall gradient ranged from 1.2 to 1.7 mm m−1 in lowland and 0.3 to 0.6 mm m−1 in upland. The study demonstrates that scaling down from global OLS to local GWR model decreases the unexplained variance in the rainfall–topography relationship significantly. The result obtained from the stratification of study region proved that the clustering of data in mountainous region has the potential for improving the predictability of rainfall.
A new method for generating the thermal growing degree‐days and season in China during the last century
Authors: Yin Yunhe , Deng Haoyu , Wu Shaohong
Published: May 2016

Changes in the thermal variables of growing degree‐days (GDDs) and season have substantial effects on vegetation growth and distribution. The magnitude and spatial distribution of changes in GDDs and season in China during the past century are still uncertain, mainly due to limited daily observations before 1950. In this study, a site‐specific multiple linear regression method is developed based on the homogenized daily temperature data of 536 meteorological stations in China for 1960–2010, in order to estimate the annual variables of GDDs and season with only monthly temperature. The method is robust for all stations and interannual variability. Since it could accurately simulate the observed values in 2011, with relative errors of −0.02 and 0.96% for GDDs and growing season (GS), respectively. We simulated the thermal variables based on this method using gridded monthly temperature data for 1901–2010. The interannual variations of simulated GDDs and GS matched well with that of observed values from 1960 to 2010, with high correlation coefficients of 0.99 and 0.92, respectively. Overall, the GDDs and season showed significant (p < 0.01) increasing trends of 11.88 °C·day 10 years−1 and 0.69 day 10 years−1, respectively, in China as a whole, with the trends increasing from 1991 to 2010. Moreover, all eco‐geographical zones showed positive trends during 1901–2010. The GS was more prolonged in northern zones, and degree‐days were more increased in north‐subtropical, south‐subtropical, and tropical zones. However, both the GDDs and season have decreased in the part of Southwest China in the mid‐subtropical zone over the past century.
Titania effect on the bioactivity of silicate bioactive glasses
Authors: Magyari Klára , One Roxana , Tódor István‐Szabolcs , Baia Monica , Simon Viorica , Simon Simion , Baia Lucian
Published: May 2016

This study reports about the influence of titania on the structure and bioactivity of 60SiO2 ⋅ (32 − x)CaO · 8P2O5 · xTiO2 glasses with 0 ≤ x ≤ 12 mol%. In order to analyse the evolution of the apatite structure self‐assembled on the glass surface after immersion in simulated body fluid, a complementary approach of different techniques was applied such as X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. It was evidenced that the crystalline hydroxyapatite amount and the size of the nanostructured apatite phase, i.e. crystalline and amorphous one, decrease with the rise of TiO2 content. FT‐IR spectra recorded in reflection mode showed the increase of the apatite‐like structure amount as the titania content became higher. On the other hand, the behaviour of the full width at half maximum of the most intense Raman signal originating from the apatite‐like structure confirms the size decrease of the nanostructured apatite phase with the progressive addition of TiO2 and shows the existence of a less ordered apatite‐like structure. The herein presented investigation demonstrates that the FWHM of the Raman signal combined with the FT‐IR data recorded in reflection mode can be used as key spectral indicators for elucidating the evolution of apatite‐like structures developed on the bioactive material surface. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy of green minerals and reaction products with an application in Cultural Heritage research
Authors: Coccato A. , Bersani D. , Coudray A. , Sanyova J. , Moens L. , Vandenabeele P.
Published: May 2016

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful technique for the characterization of materials and is of valuable use in archaeometrical research in general. Green compounds of natural or synthetic origin are found in many research areas, ranging from mineralogy, to pigment identification, to corrosion studies. However, a detailed and comprehensive database of spectra and references is still missing in the literature. This paper provides both, a literature review and downloadable Raman spectra of reference products, to the researcher dealing with green materials in cultural heritage. Moreover, it tackles nomenclature issues. The collected spectra are discussed in relation to the preliminary/commercial identification of the material itself and to the published data. Practical aspects regarding the laser wavelength selection are also discussed with regards to the comparison to published reference spectra.

The range of studied green materials is wide and encompasses Cu containing compounds (natural and synthetic, more or less known as pigments or degradation products, including polymorphs of the same formula), Fe based (green earths and synthetic organic pigments), modern Cr and Co green pigments.

This approach is illustrated by analysing a cross section of a green zone of the Early Netherlandish panel painting ‘Ghent Altarpiece’ by the Van Eyck brothers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extending nanoscale spectroscopy with titanium nitride probes
Authors: Scherger Jacob D. , Evans Edward A. , Dura Joseph A. , Foster Mark D.
Published: May 2016

We present a means of controlling the stoichiometry of titanium nitride (TiN) coatings on probes for tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy measurements made using sputtering so that outstanding enhancements can be obtained. This provides a more robust alternative to gold‐coated tips that also has potential for tuning the plasmon resonance and working in new environments. Proof of concept measurements on poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrenesulfonate) thin films demonstrate increases in the observed intensity with contrast values up to 3.1. TiN is mechanically, chemically, and thermally robust. When deposited under appropriate conditions it has optical properties, including a plasmon resonance, very similar to those of gold. However, the spontaneous formation of a surface TiNxOy layer with relatively high values of y has prevented attaining enhancements in tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy beyond that provided by the lightning rod effect. Depositing a thin layer of aluminum to form a passivating Al2O3 layer over the TiN plasmonic structure allows the stoichiometry achieved in the vacuum deposition to be maintained. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Portable multi‐gray scale video playing scheme for high‐performance electrowetting displays
Authors: Luo Zhi Jie , Zhang Wei Nan , Liu Lin Wei , Xie Shuting , Zhou GuoFu
Published: May 2016

Electrowetting display technology is realized by tuning the surface energy of a hydrophobic surface by applying a voltage based on electrowetting mechanism. Electrowetting displays have favorable optical properties combined with reflective paper‐like performance. It has been successfully demonstrated in reflective mode with high switching speed. In this paper, we propose a portable driving scheme that can display 4‐bit gray scale dynamic video using an active matrix electrowetting display. The proposed driving scheme includes an electronic system and a dynamic driving waveform design. High‐performance multi‐gray video playing and quick response were obtained for a Quarter Video Graphics Array electrowetting display cell fabricated by our team.
Intralesional PV‐10 for in‐transit melanoma—A single‐center experience
Authors: Lippey Jocelyn , Bousounis Rhiannon , Behrenbruch Cori , McKay Bartholomew , Spillane John , Henderson Michael A. , Speakman David , Gyorki David E.
Published: May 2016

Background and Objectives

Patients with in‐transit melanoma metastasis have longer median survival than patients with distant metastatic disease. Furthermore, local disease control is an important endpoint for symptom management. The treatment of unresectable loco‐regional recurrence or in‐transit disease has been historically managed with a combination of treatments including surgery, radiotherapy, isolated limb infusion or perfusion as well as systemic therapies. Intralesional PV‐10 has been used at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre since 2010, and the current report presents a retrospective analysis of patient outcomes, reporting the response rates, durability of responses, and observed toxicities.

Methods

Records were analyzed retrieving details of 19 patients treated with PV‐10 over a 4‐year period from 2010 to 2014. Medical records were reviewed for these patients and data extracted.

Results

Nineteen patients with in‐transit melanoma were treated with intralesional PV‐10 between 2010 and 2014. Disease control (complete or partial response or disease stability) was achieved in 68% of patients with 26% having a complete response. This was achieved with minimal associated toxicity.

Conclusions

PV‐10 is an effective, durable, well‐tolerated treatment tool with an acceptable side effect profile for the management of unresectable in‐transit melanoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:380–384. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Free abdominal fat transfer for partial and total parotidectomy defect reconstruction
Authors: Loyo Myriam , Gourin Christine G.
Published: May 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

A variety of techniques have been proposed for reconstruction of the parotidectomy defect. We reviewed our experience with free abdominal fat transfer (FAT) graft reconstruction of parotidectomy defects for benign and malignant disease.

Methods

The medical records of patients who underwent parotidectomy for benign or malignant disease from 2007 to 2015 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

One hundred and five patients underwent 108 parotidectomies with FAT reconstruction, with bilateral parotidectomy performed in three patients. The majority of patients had benign pathology (71%) and tumors < 3 cm (57%). Prior surgery had been performed in 13 cases (12%) and prior radiation had been performed in three (3%). Superficial parotidectomy was performed in 62 patients (57%) and concurrent elective neck dissection was performed in eight (7%). A facelift incision was utilized in 59 patients (55%). Postoperative radiation was used in 21 patients (19%). Abdominal donor site complications occurred in 11 patients (10%), consisting of hematoma in eight patients (7%) and seroma in three (3%). Parotidectomy wound dehiscence occurred in six cases (6%); all responded to conservative management. There was no association between age, tumor size, comorbidity, smoking status, extent of surgery, incision, or prior radiation on the development of wound complications. Fat transfer graft debulking was required in three patients with persistent overcorrection beyond 6 months postoperatively. No patient demonstrated undercorrection or further FAT resorption beyond 6 months.

Conclusion

Fat transfer reconstruction of the parotidectomy defect is safe and achieves a consistent and predictable long‐term cosmetic result.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:2694–2698, 2016
Comparison between 4‐MV and 6‐MV radiotherapy in T1N0 glottic cancer
Authors: Sommat Kiattisa , Yit Nelson Ling Fung , Kwok Li‐Lian
Published: May 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

The purpose of this study was to report the outcomes of a retrospective consecutive cohort study of patients with T1N0M0 glottic carcinoma treated with 4‐MV or 6‐MV radiotherapy.

Study Design

Retrospective case–control study.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of all patients with T1N0M0 glottic carcinoma treated with radiotherapy between January 2000 and December 2012 in the Department of Radiation Oncology at National Cancer Center Singapore. A total of 124 patients were included. Clinical endpoints of interest were: local control (LC), overall survival (OS), and disease‐specific survival (DSS). Other prognostic factors for LC were also analyzed: age, gender, smoking status, T substage, dose fraction, field size, anterior commissure involvement, total dose, and overall treatment time.

Results

Six‐megavolt photon radiotherapy was used in 73 patients and 4‐MV photon radiotherapy in 51 patients. Median follow‐up was 4.9 years. The 5‐year LC and OS were as follows: 4 MV, 91.6% and 83.4%; 6 MV, 88.8% and 82.8%; and the 5‐year LC, OS, and DSS for all patients were 90.4%, 83.3%, and 98.3%. There was no significant difference in LR and OS between 4‐MV and 6‐MV radiotherapy (P = .92, P = .16, respectively). In the univariate analysis of LC, none of the prognostic factors was statistically significant. Twenty patients (23%) developed second primary cancers, the majority in the lungs.

Conclusions

Six‐megavolt photon radiotherapy yields comparable results to 4‐MV photons. Bolus and computed tomographic simulation are useful to ensure adequate dose coverage of target volume. Follow‐up postradiotherapy should incorporate chest imaging, smoking cessation advice, and thyroid function test.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 127:1061–1067, 2017
Spatial Shifts in Soil Microbial Activity and Degradation of Pasture Cover Caused by Prolonged Exposure to Cement Dust
Authors: Caravaca Fuensanta , Lozano Zenaida , Rodríguez‐Caballero Gema , Roldán Antonio
Published: May 2016

We ascertained the relationship between the zonal pattern and the pasture vegetation of a volcanic soil polluted with dust from a cement factory after 70 years of operation, with parameters linked to soil microbial activity (soil basal respiration and hydrolases) and physical–chemical properties. Six sampling zones were established at distances of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 km away from the cement plant, considering the latter one as the zone where the pastures were unaffected by the cement dust. Plant cover was negatively affected by cement dust, showing a sharp decline with decreasing distance to the cement factory. The values of pH and extractable K were two units and 2·3‐fold higher, respectively, in the sampling zone nearest to the factory, in comparison with those in the unaffected zone. The levels of total Cr, Pb, Ni and Cd were normal and did not vary significantly with distance to the cement factory. Soil respiration and the protease, phosphomonoesterase and β‐glucosidase activities declined significantly with decreasing distance to the cement factory. Urease activity was only decreased in the zone nearest to the factory, in comparison with that in the unaffected zone. The soil respiration and hydrolase activities were correlated positively with soil organic matter and plant cover and negatively with soil pH and extractable K concentration. The prolonged exposure to cement dust has resulted in shifts in the soil microbial function, which follows a spatial pattern related to soil alkalization and the decrease in pasture production. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Established atherosclerosis might be a prerequisite for chicory and its constituent protocatechuic acid to promote endothelium‐dependent vasodilation in mice
Authors: Liu Chaoqun , Wang Wenting , Lin Weiqun , Ling Wenhua , Wang Dongliang
Published: May 2016

Scope

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L. var. foliosum, Belgian endive), a typical Mediterranean vegetable, and its constituent protocatechuic acid (PCA) can inhibit established atherosclerosis progression. We thus investigated whether chicory can improve vascular relaxation, a critical pathway for combating atherosclerosis, and whether PCA is a contributor to a chicory‐induced effect.

Methods and results

Apolipoprotein E‐deficient (ApoE−/−) mice with established atherosclerosis and C57BL/6J mice without atherosclerosis were fed an AIN‐93G diet, or AIN‐93G plus 0.5% freeze‐dried chicory or 0.003% PCA for 1 wk. In ApoE−/− mice, both chicory and PCA consumption increased endothelium‐dependent vasodilation and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity independent of eNOS and phospho‐eNOS Ser1177 and Thr495 protein expression. Chicory‐ or PCA‐induced eNOS activities were associated with increased vascular tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels that result from reduced BH4 oxidation partially through preventing eNOS uncoupling. In C57BL/6J mice, neither chicory nor PCA consumption affected endothelium‐dependent vasodilation and eNOS activity. Notably, in vitro studies showed that PCA increases eNOS activity in mouse aortic endothelial cells in co‐culture with macrophage foam cells, but not in aortic endothelial cells alone.

Conclusions

Chicory improves eNOS‐mediated endothelium‐dependent vasodilation by increasing BH4 levels in mice with established atherosclerosis, which might be partially ascribed to its constituent PCA.
Electrodiagnostic reference values for upper and lower limb nerve conduction studies in adult populations
Authors: Chen Shan , Andary Michael , Buschbacher Ralph , Del Toro David , Smith Benn , So Yuen , Zimmermann Kuno , Dillingham Timothy R.
Published: May 2016

Introduction: To address the need for greater standardization within the field of electrodiagnostic medicine, the Normative Data Task Force (NDTF) was formed to identify nerve conduction studies (NCS) in the literature, evaluate them using consensus‐based methodological criteria derived by the NDTF, and identify those suitable as a resource for NCS metrics. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted of published peer‐reviewed scientific articles for 11 routinely performed sensory and motor NCS from 1990 to 2012. Results: Over 7,500 articles were found. After review using consensus‐based methodological criteria, only 1 study each met all quality criteria for 10 nerves. Conclusion: The NDTF selected only those studies that met all quality criteria and were considered suitable as a clinical resource for NCS metrics. The literature is, however, limited and these findings should be confirmed by larger, multicenter collaborative efforts. Muscle Nerve 54: 371–377, 2016
Im chemischen Strukturraum
Authors: Löw Peter , Kraut Hans , Barth Andreas , Stengel Thomas
Published: May 2016

Patente erheben oft Anspruch auf einen umfassenden chemischen Strukturraum. Solche generischen Strukturen lassen sich jetzt in einer neuen Datenbank von Thomson Reuters bei FIZ Karlsruhe suchen.
Wacker: Körperpflege, Trockenmörtel und Pharmaproteine
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: May 2016

Wacker setzte im Jahr 2015 in den Chemiebereichen über zehn Prozent mehr um als im Jahr zuvor.
„Nur eine von vielen Möglichkeiten“
Authors: Daubenfeld Thorsten
Published: May 2016

Die Promotion als Regelabschluss ist nicht mehr zeitgemäß, meint Thorsten Daubenfeld.
Interview mit Klaus Kümmerer
Authors: Leusmann Eliza , Osterath Brigitte
Published: May 2016

Rückstände von Arzneimitteln und anderen Chemikalien im Abwasser und in der Umwelt – wie werden wir die wieder los? Klaus Kümmerer, Professor für nachhaltige Chemie an der Universität Lüneburg, findet: Wir sollten schon bei der Herstellung dieser Substanzen etwas dafür tun. Den Nachrichten aus der Chemie stellte er seine Ideen vor.
Spezialitäten oder Commodities
Authors: Feustel Dieter
Published: May 2016

Ob eine Substanz Spezial‐ oder Massenchemie ist, entscheiden Markt und Kunde, nicht die chemischen Eigenschaften.
Der Weltmarkt für Geräte wächst
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: May 2016

Zunehmende regulatorische Anforderungen sowie eine gute Konjunktur in Inland führen zu einer steigenden Nachfrage nach Analysen‐ und Laborgeräten.
Contributions to magnetic susceptibility of brain tissue
Authors: Duyn Jeff H. , Schenck John
Published: May 2016

This review discusses the major contributors to the subtle magnetic properties of brain tissue and how they affect MRI contrast. With the increased availability of high‐field scanners, the use of magnetic susceptibility contrast for the study of human brain anatomy and function has increased dramatically. This has not only led to novel applications, but has also improved our understanding of the complex relationship between MRI contrast and magnetic susceptibility. Chief contributors to the magnetic susceptibility of brain tissue have been found to include myelin as well as iron. In the brain, iron exists in various forms with diverse biological roles, many of which are now only starting to be uncovered. An interesting aspect of magnetic susceptibility contrast is its sensitivity to the microscopic distribution of iron and myelin, which provides opportunities to extract information at spatial scales well below MRI resolution. For example, in white matter, the myelin sheath that surrounds the axons can provide tissue contrast that is dependent on the axonal orientation and reflects the relative size of intra‐ and extra‐axonal water compartments. The extraction of such ultrastructural information, together with quantitative information about iron and myelin concentrations, is an active area of research geared towards the characterization of brain structure and function, and their alteration in disease. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A semi‐analytical curved element for linear elasticity based on the scaled boundary finite element method
Authors: Krome Fabian , Gravenkamp Hauke
Published: May 2016

This work introduces a semi‐analytical formulation for the simulation and modeling of curved structures based on the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM). This approach adapts the fundamental idea of the SBFEM concept to scale a boundary to describe a geometry. Until now, scaling in SBFEM has exclusively been performed along a straight coordinate that enlarges, shrinks, or shifts a given boundary. In this novel approach, scaling is based on a polar or cylindrical coordinate system such that a boundary is shifted along a curved scaling direction. The derived formulations are used to compute the static and dynamic stiffness matrices of homogeneous curved structures. The resulting elements can be coupled to general SBFEM or FEM domains. For elastodynamic problems, computations are performed in the frequency domain. Results of this work are validated using the global matrix method and standard finite element analysis. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of a community‐based behavioral weight loss program in Chinese adults: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yang Zhengxiong , Yu Zhiping , Jiang Yingying , Bai Yamin , Miller‐Kovach Karen , Zhao Wenhua , Foster Gary D. , Chen Chunming
Published: May 2016

Objective

Weight losses between a group of participants assigned to a weight loss program based in the community [i.e., specifically the methodology used by Weight Watchers (WW)] and a Nutrition Education (NE) control group were compared in this study.

Methods

In this 6‐month trial, 300 participants with overweight or obesity were recruited from Beijing city, China, and randomly assigned to the WW or NE group. Weight, waist circumference, and biochemical parameters were assessed at baseline and 6 months.

Results

At 6 months, the majority of participants (79% for WW; 89% for NE) completed the study. WW participants lost significantly more weight than the NE group (−4.2 ± 5.6 kg vs. −0.6 ± 3.6 kg). More WW participants lost 5% or 10% of their starting weight [≥5%: 52.0% of WW participants vs. 11.3% of NE participants (odds ratio 8.15, 95% CI: 4.43–14.97)]; [≥10%: 26.0% of WW vs. 3.3% of NE participants (odds ratio 9.39, 95% CI: 3.55–24.83)]. In addition, WW participants reduced waist circumference by 3.9 ± 6.3 cm, while the NE group increased waist circumference by 0.6 ± 5.5 cm.

Conclusions

The WW program was associated with clinically significant weight loss, demonstrating its potential value as an intervention strategy, based in the community, for the treatment of obesity in China.
An Exploration of the Use of a Sensory Room in a Forensic Mental Health Setting: Staff and Patient Perspectives
Authors: Wiglesworth Sophie , Farnworth Louise
Published: May 2016

Despite the increased use of sensory rooms, there is little published evidence related to their benefits. The purpose of this study was to explore staff and patient perspectives of the use of a sensory room in an Australian forensic mental health setting. Staff and patients on a forensic hospital unit were recruited for this study. Focus group data was obtained from the perspective of the healthcare staff. A sensory assessment identified patients' sensory preferences. The details of the patients sensory room use and stress experienced before and after using the sensory room were recorded. The results showed a mean decrease in stress that was attributed to the use of the sensory room. Stress reducing benefits of sensory room use may improve a patient's experience within a forensic mental health facility while applying a recovery approach. As a limitation of the study, patient stress was rated on an un‐validated scale. Further research is needed for greater insight and evidence in evaluating the use of sensory rooms in forensic mental health settings in reducing stress. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal and frictional properties of mesoporous silica SBA‐15/phenolic resin nanocomposites
Authors: Yu Chuanbai , Gao Man , Feng Jinwei , Liu Yuanli , Lv Jian , Liu Hongxia , Wei Chun
Published: May 2016

Mesoporous silica SBA‐15/phenolic resin hybrid materials (SBA‐15/PF) were fabricated through in situ polymerization of phenol and formaldehyde in the presence of SBA‐15 and subsequent SBA‐15/PF nanocomposites were prepared by compression moldings. The results revealed that the glass transition temperatures and thermal stability of SBA‐15/PF hybrid materials were obviously enhanced compared to pure PF. In addition, the dynamic mechanical and friction properties of SBA‐15/PF nanocomposites were improved remarkably. For SBA‐15/PF nanocomposites containing 5.0 wt% of SBA‐15, the glass transition temperature of the nanocomposite increased by 13.0°C. Moreover, the nanocomposite showed stable friction coefficient and decreased wear rate. The wear mechanism was a combination of adhesive wear and abrasive wear for PF/SBA‐15 nanocomposites, while for pure PF friction material was a combination of adhesive wear and fatigue wear. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:E351–E358, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers