bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prussian blue analogues: a new class of anode materials for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Nie Ping , Shen Laifa , Luo Haifeng , Ding Bing , Xu Guiyin , Wang Jie , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: February 2014

Herein, we demonstrate that nanoparticles of cobalt hexacyanocobaltate and manganese hexacyanocobaltate, typical Prussian blue analogues with the chemical formula M3II[CoIII(CN)6]2·nH2O (M = Co, Mn), can be operated as novel battery anodes in an organic liquid-carbonate electrolyte.
Constructing cubic–orthorhombic surface-phase junctions of NaNbO3 towards significant enhancement of CO2 photoreduction
Authors: Li Peng , Xu Hua , Liu Lequan , Kako Tetsuya , Umezawa Naoto , Abe Hideki , Ye Jinhua
Published: February 2014

NaNbO3 with cubic–orthorhombic surface-phase junctions were synthesized via a polymerized complex method. Improved charge separation meant that the mixed-phase NaNbO3 exhibited much higher activity in CO2 photoreduction than cubic and orthorhombic NaNbO3.
Noncovalent functionalization of mesoporous silica nanoparticles with amphiphilic peptides
Authors: Sardan Melis , Yildirim Adem , Mumcuoglu Didem , Tekinay Ayse B. , Guler Mustafa O.
Published: February 2014

Hybrid peptide mesoporous silica systems were synthesized by using a facile self-assembly method and their enhanced cellular uptake was demonstrated.
Efficient enrichment of glycopeptides using phenylboronic acid polymer brush modified silica microspheres
Authors: Li Xiuling , Liu Hongliang , Qing Guangyan , Wang Shutao , Liang Xinmiao
Published: February 2014

Phenylboronic acid (PBA) polymer brush modified silica demonstrated high selectivity for glycopeptides attributed to the synergistic effect of polyvalent interactions, hydrogen binding and hydrophilic nature provided by the polymer brush.
DHCR24 associates strongly with the endoplasmic reticulum beyond predicted membrane domains: implications for the activities of this multi-functional enzyme
Authors: Zerenturk Eser J. , Sharpe Laura J. , Brown Andrew J.
Published: February 2014

Cholesterol synthesis occurs in the ER (endoplasmic reticulum), where most of the cholesterogenic machinery resides. As membrane-bound proteins, their topology is difficult to determine, and thus their structures are largely unknown. To help resolve this, we focused on the final enzyme in cholesterol synthesis, DHCR24 (3β-hydroxysterol Δ24-reductase). Prediction programmes and previous studies have shown conflicting results regarding which regions of DHCR24 are associated with the membrane, although there was general agreement that this was limited to only the N-terminal portion. Here, we present biochemical evidence that in fact the majority of the enzyme is associated with the ER membrane. This has important consequences for the many functions attributed to DHCR24. In particular, those that suggest DHCR24 alters its localization within the cell should be reassessed in light of this new information. Moreover, we propose that the expanding database of post-translational modifications will be a valuable resource for mapping the topology of membrane-associated proteins, such as DHCR24, that is, flagging cytosolic residues accessible to modifying enzymes such as kinases and ubiquitin ligases.
Development and performance evaluation of an electromagnetic-type shock wave generator for lipolysis
Authors: Liang S. M. , Chang M. H. , Yang Z. Y.
Published: February 2014

This study aims at the design and development of electromagnetic-type intermittent shock wave generation in a liquid. The shock wave generated is focused at a focal point through an acoustic lens. This hardware device mainly consists of a full-wave bridge rectifier, 6 capacitors, a spark gap, and a flat coil. A metal disk is mounted in a liquid-filled tube and is placed in close proximity to the flat coil. Due to the repulsive force existing between the coil and disk shock waves are generated, while an eddy current is induced in the metal disk. Some components and materials associated with the device are also described. By increasing the capacitance content to enhance electric energy level, a highly focused pressure can be achieved at the focal point through an acoustic lens in order to lyse fat tissue. Focused pressures were measured at the focal point and its vicinity for different operation voltages. The designed shock wave generator with an energy intensity of 0.0016 mJ/mm2 (at 4 kV) and 2000 firings or higher energy intensities with 1000 firings is found to be able to disrupt pig fat tissue.
Magnetic particle imaging with a planar frequency mixing magnetic detection scanner
Authors: Hong Hyobong , Lim Jaeho , Choi Chel-Jong , Shin Sung-Woong , Krause Hans-Joachim
Published: February 2014

We present the first experimental results of our planar-Frequency Mixing Magnetic Detection (p-FMMD) technique to obtain Magnetic Particles Imaging (MPI). The p-FMMD scanner consists of two magnetic measurement heads with intermediate space for the analysis of the sample. The magnetic signal originates from the nonlinear magnetization characteristics of superparamagnetic particles as in case of the usual MPI scanner. However, the detection principle is different. Standard MPI records the higher order harmonic response of particles at a field-free point or line. By contrast, FMMD records a sum-frequency component generated from both a high and a low frequency magnetic field incident on the magnetically nonlinear particles. As compared to conventional MPI scanner, there is no limit on the lateral dimensions of the sample; just the sample height is limited to 2 mm. In addition, the technique does not require a strong magnetic field or gradient because of the mixing of the two different frequencies. In this study, we acquired an 18 mm × 18 mm image of a string sample decorated with 100 nm diameter magnetic particles, using the p-FMMD technique. The results showed that it is feasible to use this novel MPI scanner for biological analysis and medical diagnostic purposes.
Status of a compact electron cyclotron resonance ion source for National Institute of Radiological Sciences-930 cyclotron
Authors: Hojo S. , Katagiri K. , Nakao M. , Sugiura A. , Muramatsu M. , Noda A. , Okada T. , Takahashi Y. , Komiyama A. , Honma T. , Noda K.
Published: February 2014

The Kei-source is a compact electron cyclotron resonance ion source using only permanent magnets and a frequency of 10 GHz. It was developed at the National Institute of Radiological Sciences (NIRS) for producing C4+ ions oriented for high-energy carbon therapy. It has also been used as an ion source for the NIRS-930 cyclotron. Its microwave band region for the traveling-wave-tube amplifier and maximum output power are 8–10 GHz and 350 W, respectively. Since 2006, it has provided various ion beams such as proton, deuteron, carbon, oxygen, and neon with sufficient intensity (200 μA for proton and deuteron, 50 μA for C4+, for example) and good stability for radioisotope production, tests of radiation damage, and basic research experiments. Its horizontal and vertical emittances were measured using a screen monitor and waist-scan. The present paper reports the current status of the Kei-source.
A tomographic technique for the simultaneous imaging of temperature, chemical species, and pressure in reactive flows using absorption spectroscopy with frequency-agile lasers
Authors: Cai Weiwei , Kaminski Clemens F.
Published: February 2014

This paper proposes a technique that can simultaneously retrieve distributions of temperature, concentration of chemical species, and pressure based on broad bandwidth, frequency-agile tomographic absorption spectroscopy. The technique holds particular promise for the study of dynamic combusting flows. A proof-of-concept numerical demonstration is presented, using representative phantoms to model conditions typically prevailing in near-atmospheric or high pressure flames. The simulations reveal both the feasibility of the proposed technique and its robustness. Our calculations indicate precisions of ∼70 K at flame temperatures and ∼0.05 bars at high pressure from reconstructions featuring as much as 5% Gaussian noise in the projections.
Changes in mobility of plastic crystal ethanol during its transformation into the monoclinic crystal state
Authors: Sanz Alejandro , Nogales Aurora , Puente-Orench Inés , Jiménez-Ruiz Mónica , Ezquerra Tiberio A.
Published: February 2014

Transformation of deuterated ethanol from the plastic crystal phase into the monoclinic one is investigated by means of a singular setup combining simultaneously dielectric spectroscopy with neutron diffraction. We postulate that a dynamic transition from plastic crystal to supercooled liquid-like configuration through a deep reorganization of the hydrogen-bonding network must take place as a previous step of the crystallization process. Once these precursor regions are formed, subsequent crystalline nucleation and growth develop with time.
Digital data transmission using electro-optically modulated vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser with saturable absorber
Authors: Shchukin V. A. , Ledentsov N. N. , Qureshi Z. , Ingham J. D. , Penty R. V. , White I. H. , Nadtochy A. M. , Maximov M. V. , Blokhin S. A. , Karachinsky L. Ya. , Novikov I. I.
Published: February 2014

An electro-optically (EO) modulated oxide-confined vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) containing a saturable absorber in the VCSEL cavity is studied. The device contains an EO modulator section that is resonant with the VCSEL cavity. A type-II EO superlattice medium is employed in the modulator section and shown to result in a strong negative EO effect in weak electric fields. Applying the reverse bias voltages to the EO section allows triggering of short pulses in the device. Digital data transmission (return-to-zero pseudo-random bit sequence, 27–1) at 10 Gb/s at bit-error-rates well below 10−9 is demonstrated.
Mixed alkaline earth effect in the compressibility of aluminosilicate glasses
Authors: Smedskjaer Morten M. , Rzoska Sylwester J. , Bockowski Michal , Mauro John C.
Published: February 2014

The mixed modifier effect (MME) in oxide glasses manifests itself as a non-additive variation in certain properties when one modifier oxide species is substituted by another one at constant total modifier content. However, the structural and topological origins of the MME are still under debate. This study provides new insights into the MME by investigating the effect of isostatic compression on density and hardness of mixed MgO/CaO sodium aluminosilicate glasses. This is done using a specially designed setup allowing isostatic compression of bulk glass samples up to 1 GPa at elevated temperature. A mixed alkaline earth effect is found in the compressibility and relative change of hardness, viz., a local maximum of density as a function of Mg/Ca ratio appears following compression, whereas a local minimum of hardness in the uncompressed glasses nearly disappears after compression. Moreover, the densification of these glasses is found to occur at temperatures much below the glass transition temperature, indicating that a non-viscous mechanism is at play. This is further supported by the fact that density relaxes in a stretched exponential manner upon subsequent annealing at ambient pressure with an exponent of ∼0.62. This is close to the Phillips value of 3/5 for relaxation in three dimensions when both short- and long-range interactions are activated.
Pump and probe spectroscopy with continuous wave quantum cascade lasers
Authors: Kirkbride James M. R. , Causier Sarah K. , Dalton Andrew R. , Weidmann Damien , Ritchie Grant A. D.
Published: February 2014

This paper details infra-red pump and probe studies on nitric oxide conducted with two continuous wave quantum cascade lasers both operating around 5 μm. The pump laser prepares a velocity selected population in a chosen rotational quantum state of the v = 1 level which is subsequently probed using a second laser tuned to a rotational transition within the v = 2 ← v = 1 hot band. The rapid frequency scan of the probe (with respect to the molecular collision rate) in combination with the velocity selective pumping allows observation of marked rapid passage signatures in the transient absorption profiles from the polarized vibrationally excited sample. These coherent transient signals are influenced by the underlying hyperfine structure of the pump and probe transitions, the sample pressure, and the coherent properties of the lasers. Pulsed pump and probe studies show that the transient absorption signals decay within 1 μs at 50 mTorr total pressure, reflecting both the polarization and population dephasing times of the vibrationally excited sample. The experimental observations are supported by simulation based upon solving the optical Bloch equations for a two level system.
Large eddy simulations of differential molecular diffusion in non-reacting turbulent jets of H2/CO2 mixing with air
Authors: Maragkos G. , Rauwoens P. , Fauconnier D. , Merci B.
Published: February 2014

Large eddy simulations of non-reacting H2/CO2 jets mixing with air are performed and the calculations are compared with the experiments reported by Smith et al. [“Laser Raman scattering measurements of differential molecular diffusion in non-reacting turbulent jets of H2/CO2 mixing with air,” Phys. Fluids 7, 1455–1466 (1995)]. The influence of differential diffusion effects for Reynolds numbers Re = 1000–8000 is analyzed and a differential diffusion parameter, ξ, is defined on the basis of normalized H2 and CO2 concentrations in order to quantify the effects of differential diffusion with increasing Reynolds number. The analysis is made not only in physical space but also with scatter plots and histograms. The simulation results reveal that differential diffusion effects are significant at downstream locations (more than 15 nozzle diameters away from the inlet) only for the lower Reynolds numbers (Re = 1000–2000). However, differential diffusion effects are present for all Reynolds numbers examined close to the inlet (closer than 10 nozzle diameters). This is not only confirmed by the mean results of the differential diffusion parameter, ξ, but also by looking at the histograms of ξ. This is an important indication that differential diffusion can be important in turbulent reacting flows if laminarization of the flow or weakening of turbulent diffusion occurs. Including differential diffusion effects in turbulent reactive flows involving mixtures with vastly different mass diffusivities can, therefore, improve the accuracy of numerical simulations. Results obtained assuming equal species mass diffusivities revealed that differential diffusion effects do not have any significant influence in the velocity field.
Template assisted self-assembly of iron oxide nanoparticles: An x-ray structural analysis
Authors: Mishra D. , Zabel H. , Ulyanov S. V. , Romanov V. P. , Uzdin V. M.
Published: February 2014

We have fabricated by e-beam lithography periodic arrays of rectangular shaped trenches of different widths into Si substrates. The trenches were filled with iron oxide nanoparticles, 20 nm in diameter, by spin-coating them onto the Si substrate. The trenches have the purpose to assist the self-assembly of the iron oxide nanoparticles. Using x-ray scattering techniques, we have analyzed the structure factor of the trenches before and after filling in order to determine the filling factor. We present a theoretical analysis of the x-ray scattering function within the distorted-wave Born approximation and we present a quantitative comparison between theory and experiment.
Millimeter wave complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor on-chip hexagonal ferrite circulator
Authors: Chao Liu , Fu Enjin , Koomson Valencia J. , Afsar Mohammed N.
Published: February 2014

Hexagonal ferrites, such as BaFe12O19 and SrFe12O19, have strong uniaxial anisotropic magnetic field and remanent magnetism. By employing these properties, magnetic devices, such as phase shifter, isolator and circulator, can work up to tens of GHz frequency range without strong external magnetic field or even self-biasing. As the monolithic microwave integrated circuit extends to higher millimeter wave frequencies, the demand for high performance integrated passive magnetic components is more and more eminent. The micro- and nano-sized hexagonal ferrite can be conveniently utilized to fabricate magnetic components integrated in CMOS circuits via post processing. A nano-ferrite circulator working at 60 GHz is designed, fabricated, and integrated into the CMOS front end for the first time.
Note: Long-range scanning tunneling microscope for the study of nanostructures on insulating substrates
Authors: Molina-Mendoza Aday J. , Rodrigo José G. , Island Joshua , Burzuri Enrique , Rubio-Bollinger Gabino , van der Zant Herre S. J. , Agraït Nicolás
Published: February 2014

The scanning tunneling microscope (STM) is a powerful tool for studying the electronic properties at the atomic level, however, it is of relatively small scanning range and the fact that it can only operate on conducting samples prevents its application to study heterogeneous samples consisting of conducting and insulating regions. Here we present a long-range scanning tunneling microscope capable of detecting conducting micro and nanostructures on insulating substrates using a technique based on the capacitance between the tip and the sample and performing STM studies.
Various evidences for the unusual polarization behaviors in epitaxially strained (111) BaTiO3
Authors: Raeliarijaona Aldo , Fu Huaxiang
Published: February 2014

Drastically different ferroelectric properties and polarization behaviors are found in epitaxially strained (111) BaTiO3 as compared to (001) BaTiO3, which include a positive piezoelectric e31 coefficient and an anomalous coupling between out-of-plane strain and out-of-plane polarization. Various evidences, consisting of ferroelectric instability, strain-dependent polarization, and full-zone phonon dispersion, are examined to confirm the unusual behaviors in (111)-oriented BaTiO3. The present results demonstrate that orientation can effectively alter, and thus tune, the polarization behaviors in epitaxially grown ferroelectrics.
Ultra-fast magnetic vortex core reversal by a local field pulse
Authors: Rückriem R. , Schrefl T. , Albrecht M.
Published: February 2014

Magnetic vortex core reversal of a 20-nm-thick permalloy disk with a diameter of 100 nm was studied by micromagnetic simulations. By applying a global out-of-plane magnetic field pulse, it turned out that the final core polarity is very sensitive to pulse width and amplitude, which makes it hard to control. The reason for this phenomenon is the excitation of radial spin waves, which dominate the reversal process. The excitation of spin waves can be strongly suppressed by applying a local field pulse within a small area at the core center. With this approach, ultra-short reversal times of about 15 ps were achieved, which are ten times faster compared to a global pulse.
Ultraviolet emission from a multi-layer graphene/MgZnO/ZnO light-emitting diode
Authors: Kang Jang-Won , Choi Yong-Seok , Kim Byeong-Hyeok , Goo Kang Chang , Hun Lee Byoung , Tu C. W. , Park Seong-Ju
Published: February 2014

We report on ultraviolet emission from a multi-layer graphene (MLG)/MgZnO/ZnO light-emitting diodes (LED). The p-type MLG and MgZnO in the MLG/MgZnO/ZnO LED are used as transparent hole injection and electron blocking layers, respectively. The current-voltage characteristics of the MLG/MgZnO/ZnO LED show that current transport is dominated by tunneling processes in the MgZnO barrier layer under forward bias conditions. The holes injected from p-type MLG recombine efficiently with the electrons accumulated in ZnO, and the MLG/MgZnO/ZnO LED shows strong ultraviolet emission from the band edge of ZnO and weak red-orange emission from the deep levels of ZnO.
Magic angle and height quantization in nanofacets on SiC(0001) surfaces
Authors: Sawada Keisuke , Iwata Jun-Ichi , Oshiyama Atsushi
Published: February 2014

We report on the density-functional calculations that provide microscopic mechanism of the facet formation on the SiC (0001) surface. We first identify atom-scale structures of single-, double-, and quad-bilayer steps and find that the single-bilayer (SB) step has the lowest formation energy. We then find that the SB steps are bunched to form a nanofacet with a particular angle relative to the (0001) plane (magic facet angle) and with a discretized height along the (0001) direction (height quantization). We also clarify a microscopic reason for the self-organization of the nanofacet observed experimentally.
Generation-recombination and trap-assisted tunneling in long wavelength infrared minority electron unipolar photodetectors based on InAs/GaSb superlattice
Authors: Callewaert F. , Hoang A. M. , Razeghi M.
Published: February 2014

A long wavelength infrared minority electron unipolar photodetector based on InAs/GaSb type-II superlattices is demonstrated. At 77 K, a dark current of 3 × 10−5 A/cm2 and a differential resistance-area of 3700 Ω.cm2 are achieved at the turn-on bias, with a 50%-cutoff of 10.0 μm and a specific detectivity of 6.2 × 1011 Jones. The dark current is fitted as a function of bias and temperature using a model combining generation-recombination and trap-assisted tunneling. Good agreement was observed between the theory and the experimental dark current.
Single crystal Fe1−xGax thin films for monolithic microwave devices
Authors: Kuanr Bijoy K. , Camley R. E. , Celinski Z. , McClure Adam , Idzerda Yves
Published: February 2014

Modern, high frequency, microwave devices for communications technologies can be made with thin ferromagnetic films with narrow microwave resonance linewidths. Recently, there has been interest in magnetostrictive materials where the material constants can change substantially with stresses and applied magnetic fields. We report the development of single crystal thin (20 nm thick) magnetostrictive films of Fe1−xGax (x = 0.20 FeGa(A), 0.23 FeGa(B), 0.28 FeGa(C) on GaAs(001) substrates and on their use in prototype microwave devices. These Galfenol films have a narrower linewidth than any previously reported similar thin films. We fabricate and characterize novel microstrip-based monolithic microwave devices using Galfenol thin films as an active element. We find a number of important features: (1) There is a large absorption (up to 30 dB/cm) at the resonance frequency. (2) The linewidth of the device is narrow ∼1.5 GHz. (3) The saturation magnetization of the samples decreases with the increase in Ga contents. (4) The cubic anisotropy is close to zero (∼0.06 kOe for FeGa(A)) and becomes negative for higher concentration of Ga content in the samples, and (5) the damping increases with increase in Ga concentration.
State Intervention in Vacant Residential Properties: An Evaluation of Empty Dwelling Management Orders in England
Authors: Henderson Steven R
Published: February 2014

State intervention in empty properties strengthened in England during the 2000s. Reasons included housing need, planning dilemmas, and a policy discourse associating vacant properties with wasted resources. Empty dwelling management orders (EDMOs) were adopted to enable local authority management of empty properties, with associated legislation endeavouring to uphold the rights of different interests and tasking a tribunal with approval. EDMOs nevertheless proved controversial, leading to adopted policy changes. Drawing on case transcripts and a conceptualisation of the abstract spaces of tribunals, recent EDMO applications are examined to investigate applications submitted and the basis for judgments reached. The paper acknowledges that behind notions of disinterested property owners were a diversity of lived situations, and that, in contrast to prevailing statements about heavy handedness, alternative implementation perspectives were evident, including a limited number of applications and approaches that were both considered and supportive. Not without broader relevance, the basis for policy (re)formulation must be carefully examined because of the potential for such disjuncture to exist.
Recovering zeros of polynomials modulo a prime
Authors: Gómez Domingo , Gutierrez Jaime
Published: February 2014

Let

p
p

be a prime and

F

p

\mathbb {F}_p

the finite field with

p
p

elements. We show how, when given an irreducible bivariate polynomial

F
∈

F

p

[
X
,
Y
]

F \in \mathbb {F}_p[X,Y]

and an approximation to a zero, one can recover the root efficiently, if the approximation is good enough. The strategy can be generalized to polynomials in the variables

X
1

,
…
,

X
m

X_1,\ldots ,X_m

over the field

F

p

\mathbb {F}_p

. These results have been motivated by the predictability problem for nonlinear pseudorandom number generators and other potential applications to cryptography.
On an analogue of the James conjecture
Authors: Williamson Geordie
Published: February 2014

We give a counterexample to the most optimistic analogue (due to Kleshchev and Ram) of the James conjecture for Khovanov-Lauda-Rouquier algebras associated to simply-laced Dynkin diagrams. The first counterexample occurs in type

A
5

A_5

for

p
=
2

p = 2

and involves the same singularity used by Kashiwara and Saito to show the reducibility of the characteristic variety of an intersection cohomology

D
D

-module on a quiver variety. Using recent results of Polo one can give counterexamples in type

A
A

in all characteristics.
Challenges of Big Data analysis
Authors: Fan Jianqing , Han Fang , Liu Han
Published: February 2014

Big Data bring new opportunities to modern society and challenges to data scientists. On the one hand, Big Data hold great promises for discovering subtle population patterns and heterogeneities that are not possible with small-scale data. On the other hand, the massive sample size and high dimensionality of Big Data introduce unique computational and statistical challenges, including scalability and storage bottleneck, noise accumulation, spurious correlation, incidental endogeneity and measurement errors. These challenges are distinguished and require new computational and statistical paradigm. This paper gives overviews on the salient features of Big Data and how these features impact on paradigm change on statistical and computational methods as well as computing architectures. We also provide various new perspectives on the Big Data analysis and computation. In particular, we emphasize on the viability of the sparsest solution in high-confidence set and point out that exogenous assumptions in most statistical methods for Big Data cannot be validated due to incidental endogeneity. They can lead to wrong statistical inferences and consequently wrong scientific conclusions.
Predictors of Successful Air Enema Reduction of Intussusception in Infants Younger Than 4 Months
Authors: Li Jing‐en , Yang Li‐juan , Wang Jian , Sheng Mao , Guo Wan‐liang
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

Intussusception is rare in infants younger than 4 months, and the use of air enema for reduction of intussusception has been limited. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the predictors of successful reduction of intussusception using air enema in infants younger than 4 months.

Methods:

This is a retrospective chart review of 97 intussusception patients of younger than 4 months between January 2008 and December 2012. Demographic data, clinical presentation, and outcomes of air enemas were collected and analyzed. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses for significant predictors of successful reduction of intussusception using air enemas.

Results:

Of the 97 infants younger than 4 months (median age 97.6 days, age range 41–119 days), 63 (65%) were boys and 34 (35%) were girls. The duration of symptoms ranged from 5 to 53 hours, with a median of 16.3 hours. The clinical features included paroxysmal crying (75%), vomiting (68%), bloody stools (61%), and palpable abdominal masses (32%). The duration of symptoms, bloody stools, and the shape of the intussusceptum were found to be significantly predictive of the outcome of air enema reduction of intussusception.

Conclusions:

The rate of successful reduction of intussusception using air enemas in infants younger than 4 months is low. Factors such as the duration of symptoms, bloody stools, and the shape of the intussusceptum are predictive of the outcome of air enema reduction of intussusception.
Evaluation in mice of the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of a tetravalent subunit vaccine candidate against dengue virus
Authors: Lazo Laura , Izquierdo Alienys , Suzarte Edith , Gil Lázaro , Valdés Iris , Marcos Ernesto , Álvarez Mayling , Romero Yaremis , Guzmán María Guadalupe , Guillén Gerardo , Hermida Cruz Lisset
Published: February 2014

A dengue vaccine must induce protective immunity against the four serotypes of the virus. Our group has developed chimeric proteins consisting of the protein P64k from Neisseria meningitidis and the domain III from the four viral envelope proteins. In this study, the immunogenicity of a tetravalent vaccine formulation using aluminum hydroxide as adjuvant was evaluated in mice. After three doses, neutralizing antibody titers were detected against the four viral serotypes, the lowest seroconversion rate being against dengue virus serotype 4. One month after the last dose, immunized animals were challenged with infective virus, and partial but statistically significant protection was found to have been achieved. Based on these results, further studies in mice and non‐human primates using this tetravalent formulation in a prime‐boost strategy with attenuated viruses are strongly recommended.
Structural and functional trends indicate fishing pressure on marine fish assemblages
Authors: Henriques Sofia , Pais Miguel P. , Vasconcelos Rita P. , Murta Alberto , Azevedo Manuela , Costa Maria J. , Cabral Henrique N.
Published: February 2014

Conservation science increasingly focuses on how ecosystem functioning is affected by anthropogenic pressures, which implies an understanding of the structural and functional changes in biological assemblages and requires indicators to detect such changes within a suitable time frame.

A novel approach that combines the spatial analysis of fishing gradients (based on vessel monitoring system records) with distance‐based linear models was used to assess the response of several functional and structural metrics of fish assemblages to gradients of trawling, within four distinct habitat types. In addition, critical thresholds of trawling intensity were identified for the most sensitive metrics through piecewise regression models.

Overall, total biomass and dominance (i.e. number of species that make up 90% of the total biomass) metrics as well as metrics representing vulnerable features (such as chondrichthyes, species with very low resilience and sedentary species) were shown to be sensitive to fishing. Our results suggest that decreasing trends in these indicators are likely to be associated with direct and indirect fishing effects acting synergistically on specific features of fish assemblages leading to its homogenization, with likely impacts on ecosystems resilience.

Critical thresholds at high, medium and low fishing intensity levels were identified depending on the metric used to assess fishing impacts, suggesting that it is difficult to define a single global target for fishing management as it ultimately will depend on management and conservation objectives (e.g. maintenance of biomass vs. maintenance of structure and function).

Synthesis and applications. A key goal of the applied approach was to provide short‐term indicators that are sensitive to gradients of trawling intensity and can be extrapolated to a broader geographical region. The identification of thresholds of fishing pressure that fish assemblages can withstand before ecosystem functioning is altered is key for the development of indicators as warning mechanisms, as well as to assess performance measures for management. Understanding responses to other pressure sources (e.g. pollution, dredging) requires further research, and combining an integrative functional traits approach with a wider range of pressures may help make this achievable.
Prevalence, extent and severity of severe periodontal destruction in an urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population
Authors: Roberts‐Thomson KF , Do LG , Bartold PM , Daniels J , Grosse A , Meihubers S
Published: February 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to document the three main indicators of severe periodontal destruction and to evaluate factors associated with those indicators in an urban Indigenous population in Australia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of a convenience sample of Aboriginal adults from an Australian urban area was undertaken. Socio‐demographic data and smoking status were collected by interview and health status by a medical record audit. Clinical attachment loss (CAL) was used to determine prevalence, extent and severity of severe periodontitis. Factors with significant association with periodontal indicators at bivariate level were further included in multivariable analysis controlling for age and gender.

Results

A total of 251 Aboriginal adults participated in the study. The proportion with severe periodontitis was 11.9% (95% CI: 7.6–16.3), extent: 5.0% (95% CI: 3.3–6.7) and severity: 5.3 mm (95% CI: 5.0–5.6). These estimates are significantly higher than that of other Australians. Current smokers had significantly higher prevalence rate (PR) of severe periodontitis: PR = 2.8 (95% CI: 1.3–6.0). People with diabetes and current smokers had significantly higher extent of sites with CAL 6+ mm: 1.9 (1.1–3.3) and 2.1 (1.2–3.6) respectively. Having diabetes was associated with significantly higher severity score (β: 0.96 (SE: 0.47)).

Conclusions

A high proportion of this urban Aboriginal population had severe periodontal disease related to smoking and diabetes.
A randomised crossover comparison of manikin ventilation through Soft Seal®, i‐gel™ and AuraOnce™ supraglottic airway devices by surf lifeguards
Authors: Adelborg K. , Al‐Mashhadi R. H. , Nielsen L. H. , Dalgas C. , Mortensen M. B. , Løfgren B.
Published: February 2014

Forty surf lifeguards attempted to ventilate a manikin through one out of three supraglottic airways inserted in random order: the Portex® Soft Seal®; the Intersurgical® i‐gel™; and the Ambu® AuraOnce™. We recorded the time to ventilate and the proportion of inflations that were successful, without and then with concurrent chest compressions. The mean (SD) time to ventilate with the Soft Seal, i‐gel and AuraOnce was 35.2 (7.2)s, 15.6 (3.3)s and 35.1 (8.5) s, respectively, p < 0.0001. Concurrent chest compression prolonged the time to ventilate by 5.0 (1.3–8.1)%, p = 0.0072. The rate of successful ventilations through the Soft Seal (100%) was more than through the AuraOnce (92%), p < 0.0001, neither of which was different from the i‐gel (97%). The mean (SD) tidal volumes through the Soft Seal, i‐gel and AuraOnce were 0.65 (0.14) l, 0.50 (0.16) l and 0.39 (0.19) l, respectively. Most lifeguards (85%) preferred the i‐gel. Ventilation through supraglottic airway devices may be considered for resuscitation by surf lifeguards.
Validation of the colour difference plot scoring system analysis of the 103 hexagon multifocal electroretinogram in the evaluation of hydroxychloroquine retinal toxicity
Authors: Graves Gabrielle S. , Adam Murtaza K. , Stepien Kimberly E. , Han Dennis P.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To evaluate sensitivity, specificity and reproducibility of colour difference plot analysis (CDPA) of 103 hexagon multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) in detecting established hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinal toxicity.

Methods

Twenty‐three patients taking HCQ were divided into those with and without retinal toxicity and were compared with a control group without retinal disease and not taking HCQ. CDPA with two masked examiners was performed using age‐corrected mfERG responses in the central ring (Rc; 0–5.5 degrees from fixation) and paracentral ring (Rp; 5.5–11 degrees from fixation). An abnormal ring was defined as containing any hexagons with a difference in two or more standard deviations from normal (colour blue or black).

Results

Categorical analysis (ring involvement or not) showed Rc had 83% sensitivity and 93% specificity. Rp had 89% sensitivity and 82% specificity. Requiring abnormal hexagons in both Rc and Rp yielded sensitivity and specificity of 83% and 95%, respectively. If required in only one ring, they were 89% and 80%, respectively. In this population, there was complete agreement in identifying toxicity when comparing CDPA using Rp with ring ratio analysis using R5/R4 P1 ring responses (89% sensitivity and 95% specificity). Continuous analysis of CDPA with receiver operating characteristic analysis showed optimized detection (83% sensitivity and 96% specificity) when ≥4 abnormal hexagons were present anywhere within the Rp ring outline. Intergrader agreement and reproducibility were good.

Conclusions

Colour difference plot analysis had sensitivity and specificity that approached that of ring ratio analysis of R5/R4 P1 responses. Ease of implementation and reproducibility are notable advantages of CDPA.
Ultrasound assessment of ocular vascular effects of repeated intravitreal injections of ranibizumab for wet age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Bonnin Philippe , Pournaras Jean‐Antoine C. , Makowiecka Katarzyna , Krivosic Valerie , Kedra Antoni W. , Le Gargasson Jean‐François , Gaudric Alain , Levy Bernard I. , Cohen Yves S. , Tadayoni Ramin , Massin Pascale
Published: February 2014

Purpose

Determine the effect of repeated intravitreal injections of ranibizumab (0.5 mg; 0.05 ml) on retrobulbar blood flow velocities (BFVs) using ultrasound imaging quantification in twenty patients with exudative age‐related macular degeneration treated for 6 months.

Methods

Visual acuity (ETDRS), central macular thickness (OCT), peak‐systolic, end‐diastolic and mean‐BFVs in central retinal (CRA), temporal posterior ciliary (TPCA) and ophthalmic (OA) arteries were measured before, 2 days, 3 weeks and 6 months after the first injection. Patients were examined monthly and received 1–5 additional injections depending on ophthalmologic examination results.

Results

Six months after the first injection, a significant increase in visual acuity 50.9 ± 25.9 versus 44.4 ± 21.7 (p < 0.01) and decrease in mean central macular thickness 267 ± 74 versus 377 ± 115 μm (p < 0.001) were observed compared to baseline. Although mean‐BFVs decreased by 16%±3% in CRA and 20%±5% in TPCA (p < 0.001) 2 days after the first injection, no significant change was seen thereafter. Mean‐BFVs in OA decreased by 19%±5% at week 3 (p < 0.001). However, the smallest number of injections (two injections) was associated with the longest time interval between the last injection and month 6 (20 weeks) and with the best return to baseline levels for mean‐BFVs in CRA, suggesting that ranibizumab had reversible effects on native retinal vascular supply after its discontinuation. Moreover, a significant correlation between the number of injections and percentage of changes in mean‐BFVs in CRA was observed at month 6 (R = 0.74, p < 0.001) unlike TPCA or OA.

Conclusion

Ranibizumab could impair the native choroidal and retinal vascular networks, but its effect seems reversible after its discontinuation.
Task‐related changes in sensorimotor integration influence the common synaptic input to motor neurones
Authors: Laine C. M. , Yavuz Ş. U. , Farina D.
Published: February 2014

Aim

The purpose of this investigation was to understand how visual information, when used to guide muscle activity, influences the frequency content of the neural drive to muscles and the gain of afferent feedback.

Methods

Subjects maintained static, isometric contractions of the tibialis anterior muscle by matching a visual display of their ankle dorsiflexion force to a target set at 10% of their maximum voluntary contraction level. Two visual feedback conditions were studied. The first was a high‐sensitivity feedback, in which small changes in force were of large on‐screen visual magnitude. The second was a low‐sensitivity feedback, in which the on‐screen scaling of feedback was reduced by a factor of 10, making small force fluctuations difficult to perceive. Force tremor andHoffmann reflex (H‐reflex) amplitudes were compared between the two conditions, as well as coherence among single motor unit spike trains derived from high‐densityEMGrecordings.

Results

The high‐sensitivity feedback condition was associated with lower error, larger force tremor (4–12 Hz) and largerH‐reflex amplitudes relative to the low‐sensitivity feedback condition. In addition, the use of high‐sensitivity feedback was associated with lower 1–5 Hz coherence among pairs of motor units, but larger coherence at high frequencies (6–12, approx. 20, >30 Hz).

Conclusion

Alteration of visual feedback influences nearly the entire frequency spectrum of common input to motor neurones, as well the gain of afferent feedback. We speculate that task‐related modulation of afferent feedback could be the origin of many of the observed changes in the neural drive to muscles.
Mosaic KCNJ2 mutation in Andersen–Tawil syndrome: targeted deep sequencing is useful for the detection of mosaicism
Authors: Hasegawa K. , Ohno S. , Kimura H. , Itoh H. , Makiyama T. , Yoshida Y. , Horie M.
Published: February 2014

Andersen–Tawil syndrome (ATS) is an inherited disease characterized by ventricular arrhythmias, periodic paralysis, and dysmorphic features. It results from a heterozygous mutation of KCNJ2, but little is known about mosaicism in ATS. We performed genetic analysis of KCNJ2 in 32 ATS probands and their family members and identified KCNJ2 mutations in 25 probands, 20 families who underwent extensive genetic testing. These tests revealed that seven probands carried de novo mutations while 13 carried inherited mutations from their parents. We then specifically assessed a single proband and the respective family. The proband was a 9 year old girl who fulfilled the ATS triad and carried an insertion mutation (p.75_76insThr). We determined that the proband's mother carried a somatic mosaicism and that the proband's younger brother also carried the ATS phenotype with the same insertion mutation. The mother, who exhibited mosaicism, was asymptomatic, although she exhibited Q(T)U prolongation. Mutant allele frequency was 11% as per TA cloning and 17.3% as per targeted deep sequencing. Our observations suggest that targeted deep sequencing is useful for the detection of mosaicism and that the detection of mosaic mutations in parents of apparently sporadic ATS patients can help in the process of genetic counseling.
Not all patients need to be discussed in a colorectal cancer MDT meeting
Authors: Ryan J. , Faragher I.
Published: February 2014

Aim

It is recommended that patients with cancer should be managed in the context of a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Alternatively, proponents of the standard model of care propose that the well‐informed treating doctor is able to make the appropriate plan for each patient, making the need for a MDT meeting redundant. We compared the management plans made within a colorectal cancer MDT with routine care.

Method

Consecutive cases presenting to the colorectal MDT were prospectively assessed. Before the meeting management plans were made, based on routine care pathways. These were compared with plans made at the MDT meeting and discrepancies recorded. The number of patients who generated beneficial discussion was recorded.

Results

There were 261 discussions regarding the care of 197 patients. In the 203 cases where the pathways were relevant, patient management was consistent with the pathway in 94% of the cases discussed. Discussion of routine cases of colon cancer rarely changed management (3.4%). Conversely, management changed after MDT discussion in 50% of complex cases (the preoperative management of rectal cancer, recurrence, metastatic disease and malignant polyps). The postoperative discussion of pathology findings rarely generated beneficial discussion.

Conclusion

Discussion of routine cases of colon cancer in our MDT rarely changed management, but it did change the decisions regarding complex cases or in patients with unusual pathology. We propose a two‐tiered approach to the MDT where all patients are listed for a MDT meeting but only patients with complex pathology are discussed in detail.
Predicting neurocognitive and behavioural outcome after early brain insult
Authors: Anderson Vicki A , Spencer‐Smith Megan M , Coleman Lee , Anderson Peter J , Greenham Mardee , Jacobs Rani , Lee Katherine J , Leventer Richard J
Published: February 2014

Aims

The aims of the study were to investigate (1) the impact of age at brain insult on functional outcome and (2) the influence of insult and environmental factors on cognitive and behavioural outcomes.

Method

The study was a cross‐sectional, retrospective observational study, involving 138 children (76 males, 62 females; mean age 13y 1mo, SD 1y 11mo, range 10–16y) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of focal brain insult sustained from the first trimester of pregnancy to adolescence. Children underwent MRI and intellectual, executive, behavioural, and social evaluation. Outcome predictors were insult (lesion location, laterality, and extent, history of seizures, age at insult) and environmental (social risk and family function) factors.

Results

Focal insult before the age of 3 years was associated with poorer outcomes than insult after the age of 3 years across all domains. For IQ outcomes, insult characteristics and seizures were highly predictive. For executive and behavioural domains, family function and social risk had the greatest impact. Earlier age at insult predicted poorer social competence.

Interpretation

Focal brain insult before age 3 years has devastating consequences for children's development. Findings suggest that greater emphasis should be placed on providing early intervention for children who sustain early focal brain insults.
Behçet's Disease, Echocardiographers, and Cardiac Surgeons: Together is Better
Authors: Farouk Heba
Published: February 2014

Behçet's disease is an inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology, characterized by recurrent oral aphthous ulcers, genital ulcers, uveitis, and skin lesions. Many abnormal echocardiographic findings have been previously reported in patients with Behçet's disease. Some of these; namely, aortic root dilation, aortic valve regurgitation, intracardiac thrombi, and pulmonary artery aneurysm may precede other manifestations of the disease and occasionally require surgical intervention for proper management. Compared to patients without Behçet's disease, management of these complications in patients with the disease is challenging and requires different treatment strategies. If diagnosis of Behçet's disease is missed prior to surgical intervention, higher incidence of surgical failure, recurrence, and even higher postoperative mortality may occur. In this review, the author discusses these major cardiac complications of Behçet's disease.