bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sun‐like stars unlike the Sun: Clues for chemical anomaliesof cool stars
Authors: Adibekyan V. , Delgado‐Mena E. , Feltzing S. , González Hernández J. I. , Hinkel N. R. , Korn A. J. , Asplund M. , Beck P. G. , Deal M. , Gustafsson B. , Honda S. , Lind K. , Nissen P. E. , Spina L.
Published: May 2017

We present a summary of the splinter session “Sun‐like stars unlike the Sun” that was held on June 9, 2016, as part of the Cool Stars 19 conference (Uppsala, Sweden), in which the main limitations (in the theory and observations) in the derivation of very precise stellar parameters and chemical abundances of Sun‐like stars were discussed. The most important and most debated processes that can produce chemical peculiarities in solar‐type stars were outlined and discussed. Finally, in an open discussion between all the participants, we tried to identify new pathways and prospects toward future solutions of the currently open questions.
Conscious coupling: The challenges and opportunities of cascading enzymatic microreactors
Authors: Gruber Pia , Marques Marco P. C. , O'Sullivan Brian , Baganz Frank , Wohlgemuth Roland , Szita Nicolas
Published: May 2017

The continuous production of high value or difficult to synthesize products is of increasing interest to the pharmaceutical industry. Cascading reaction systems have already been employed for chemical synthesis with great success, allowing a quick change in reaction conditions and addition of new reactants as well as removal of side products. A cascading system can remove the need for isolating unstable intermediates, increasing the yield of a synthetic pathway. Based on the success for chemical synthesis, the question arises how cascading systems could be beneficial to chemo‐enzymatic or biocatalytic synthesis. Microreactors, with their rapid mass and heat transfer, small reaction volumes and short diffusion pathways, are promising tools for the development of such processes. In this mini‐review, the authors provide an overview of recent examples of cascaded microreactors. Special attention will be paid to how microreactors are combined and the challenges as well as opportunities that arise from such combinations. Selected chemical reaction cascades will be used to illustrate this concept, before the discussion is widened to include chemo‐enzymatic and multi‐enzyme cascades. The authors also present the state of the art of online and at‐line monitoring for enzymatic microreactor cascades. Finally, the authors review work‐up and purification steps and their integration with microreactor cascades, highlighting the potential and the challenges of integrated cascades.
High‐Performance Asymmetric Li‐Ion Pseudocapacitors Based on Pyroprotein Nanowebs
Authors: Cho Se Youn , Kim Na Rae , Jin Hyoung‐Joon , Yun Young Soo
Published: May 2017

Modern industrial technologies require high power and energy storage devices with long‐term cycling stabilities; the electrochemical performances of these devices are mainly dependent on the active electrode materials and their energy storage mechanisms. In this study, nanoweb‐structured pyroprotein nanofibers (NW‐PNFs) were prepared from electrospun silk protein by pyrolysis. NW‐PNFs have an open macroporous structure formed by entangled nanofibers and numerous micropores originating from the amorphous pseudographitic microstructure of the nanofibers. In addition, they possessed a large number of heteroatoms (10.3 at. % oxygen and 5.2 at. % nitrogen). These material properties led to superior Li‐ion storage performances with high reversible capacity of about 1,050 mA h g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and great cycling performance over 3,000 cycles. In particular, NW‐PNFs exhibited high rate capability even at the specific current of 50 A g−1, at which the high specific capacity of circa 400 mA h g−1 was achieved. Furthermore, asymmetric Li‐ion storage devices based on NW‐PNFs showed feasible electrochemical performances with a maximum specific energy of 235.7 Wh kg−1 at 188.6 W kg−1 and maximum power of 21,220 W kg−1 at 69.6 Wh kg−1.
Basic rules of NO oxidation by Fe2+/H2O2/AA directional decomposition system
Authors: Zhao Haiqian , Gao Xingcun , Liu Chenghao , Wang Zhonghua , Qi Hanbing
Published: May 2017

Basic rules of NO oxidation by a Fe2+/H2O2/AA directional decomposition system were researched based on the technical background of flue gas NOx removal. Effects of gas‐liquid interfacial area, main gas, and solution parameters on NO oxidation efficiency (η) were analyzed. The results showed that adequate contact area was the precondition for high η by a Fe2+/H2O2/AA system. η decreased with the increase in NO concentration, which illustrated that this method would be efficient in oxidizing NO at a low concentration. η tended to decrease linearly with the growth in gas flow, however, the NO oxidation rate (v) rose with the increase in NO concentration and gas flow. η increased with the initial concentrations of H2O2 and Fe2+, but the amplitude decreased. Controlling the initial concentrations of H2O2 and Fe2+ to achieve reasonable synergies between generation rate and consumption rate of ·OH could weaken the invalid consumption of reactants. η increased with the increase in temperature in the range 30–60 °C, but it nearly did not change with temperature after 60 °C. This oxidation technology and the traditional wet flue gas desulphurization technology exhibited temperature synergy. Under typical pH of wet desulphurization, η and H2O2 consumption rate did not change obviously.
Recent Progress of Mussel‐Inspired Underwater Adhesives
Authors: Zhang Ke , Zhang Feilong , Song Yongyang , Fan Jun‐Bing , Wang Shutao
Published: May 2017

Underwater adhesion is greatly desired in tissue transplantation, medical treatment, ocean transportation, and so on. However, common commercial polymeric adhesives are rather weakened and easily destroyed in water environment. In nature, some marine organisms, such as mussels, barnacles, or tube worms, exhibiting excellent underwater adhesion up to robust bonding on the rock of sea floor, can give exciting solutions to address the problem. Among these marine organisms, mussels exhibit unique underwater adhesion via the foot proteins of byssus. It has been verified that the catechol groups from the side chain of the mussel foot proteins is the main contribution to the unique underwater adhesion. Hence, inspired by the mussels’ underwater adhesion, many mussel‐mimetic polymers with catechol as end chains or side chains have been developed in the past decades. Here, we review recent progress of mussel‐inspired underwater adhesives polymers from their catechol‐functional design to their potential applications in intermediates, anti‐biofouling, self‐healing of hydrogels, biological adhesives, and drug delivery. The review may provide basis and help for the development of the commercial underwater adhesives.
The tumor promoter‐activated protein kinase Cs are a system for regulating filopodia
Authors: Heckman Carol A. , Pandey Pratima , Cayer Marilyn L. , Biswas Tania , Zhang Zhong‐Yin , Boudreau Nancy S.
Published: May 2017

Different protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms have distinct roles in regulating cell functions. The conventional (α, β, γ) and novel (δ, ɛ, η, θ) classes are targets of phorbol ester tumor promoters, which are surrogates of endogenous second messenger, diacylglycerol. The promoter‐stimulated disappearance of filopodia was investigated by use of blocking peptides (BPs) that inhibit PKC maturation and/or docking. Filopodia were partially rescued by a peptide representing PKC ɛ hydrophobic sequence, but also by a myristoylated PKC α/β pseudosubstrate sequence, and an inhibitor of T‐cell protein tyrosine phosphatase (TC‐PTP). The ability to turn over filopodia was widely distributed among PKC isoforms. PKC α and η hydrophobic sequences enhanced filopodia in cells in the absence of tumor promoter treatment. With transcriptional knockdown of PKC α, the content of PKC ɛ predominated over other isoforms. PKC ɛ could decrease filopodia significantly in promoter‐treated cells, and this was attributed to ruffling. The presence of PKC α counteracted the PKC ɛ‐mediated enhancement of ruffling. The results showed that there were two mechanisms of filopodia downregulation. One operated in the steady‐state and relied on PKC α and η. The other was stimulated by tumor promoters and relied on PKC ɛ. Cycles of protrusion and retraction are characteristic of filopodia and are essential for the cell to orient itself during chemotaxis and haptotaxis. By suppressing filopodia, PKC ɛ can create a long‐term “memory” of an environmental signal that may act in nature as a mnemonic device to mark the direction of a repulsive signal.
County‐level cumulative environmental quality associated with cancer incidence
Authors: Jagai Jyotsna S. , Messer Lynne C. , Rappazzo Kristen M. , Gray Christine L. , Grabich Shannon C. , Lobdell Danelle T.
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Individual environmental exposures are associated with cancer development; however, environmental exposures occur simultaneously. The Environmental Quality Index (EQI) is a county‐level measure of cumulative environmental exposures that occur in 5 domains.

METHODS

The EQI was linked to county‐level annual age‐adjusted cancer incidence rates from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program state cancer profiles. All‐site cancer and the top 3 site‐specific cancers for male and female subjects were considered. Incident rate differences (IRDs; annual rate difference per 100,000 persons) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using fixed‐slope, random intercept multilevel linear regression models. Associations were assessed with domain‐specific indices and analyses were stratified by rural/urban status.

RESULTS

Comparing the highest quintile/poorest environmental quality with the lowest quintile/best environmental quality for overall EQI, all‐site county‐level cancer incidence rate was positively associated with poor environmental quality overall (IRD, 38.55; 95% CI, 29.57‐47.53) and for male (IRD, 32.60; 95% CI, 16.28‐48.91) and female (IRD, 30.34; 95% CI, 20.47‐40.21) subjects, indicating a potential increase in cancer incidence with decreasing environmental quality. Rural/urban stratified models demonstrated positive associations comparing the highest with the lowest quintiles for all strata, except the thinly populated/rural stratum and in the metropolitan/urbanized stratum. Prostate and breast cancer demonstrated the strongest positive associations with poor environmental quality.

CONCLUSION

We observed strong positive associations between the EQI and all‐site cancer incidence rates, and associations differed by rural/urban status and environmental domain. Research focusing on single environmental exposures in cancer development may not address the broader environmental context in which cancers develop, and future research should address cumulative environmental exposures. Cancer 2017;123:2901–8. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Climate and landscape drive the pace and pattern of conifer encroachment into subalpine meadows
Authors: Lubetkin Kaitlin C. , Westerling Anthony LeRoy , Kueppers Lara M.
Published: May 2017

Mountain meadows have high biodiversity and help regulate stream water release following the snowmelt pulse. However, many meadows are experiencing woody plant encroachment, threatening these ecosystem services. While there have been field surveys of individual meadows and remote sensing‐based landscape‐scale studies of encroachment, what is missing is a broad‐scale, ground‐based study to understand common regional drivers, especially at high elevations, where land management has often played a less direct role. With this study, we ask: What are the climate and landscape conditions conducive to woody plant encroachment at the landscape scale, and how has historical climate variation affected tree recruitment in subalpine meadows over time? We measured density of encroaching trees across 340 subalpine meadows in the central Sierra Nevada, California, USA, and used generalized additive models (GAMs) to determine the relationship between landscape‐scale patterns of encroachment and meadow environmental properties. We determined ages of trees in 30 survey meadows, used observed climate and GAMs to model the relationship between timing of recruitment and climate since the early 1900s, and extrapolated recruitment patterns into the future using downscaled climate scenarios. Encroachment was high among meadows with lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Douglas ex Loudon var. murrayana (Balf.) Engelm.) in the immediate vicinity, at lower elevations, with physical conditions favoring strong soil drying, and with maximum temperatures above or below average. Climatic conditions during the year of germination were unimportant, with tree recruitment instead depending on a 3‐yr seed production period prior to germination and a 6‐yr seedling establishment period following germination. Recruitment was high when the seed production period had high snowpack, and when the seedling establishment period had warm summer maximum temperatures, high summer precipitation, and high snowpack. Applying our temporal model to downscaled output from four global climate models indicated that the average meadow will shift to forest by the end of the 21st century. Sierra Nevada meadow encroachment by conifers is ubiquitous and associated with climate conditions increasingly favorable for tree recruitment, which will lead to substantial changes in subalpine meadows and the ecosystem services they provide.
Why phylogenies do not always predict ecological differences
Authors: Cadotte Marc W. , Davies T. Jonathan , Peres‐Neto Pedro R.
Published: May 2017

The merger of phylogenies with ecology has given rise to the field of “community phylogenetics,” predicated on the assumption that ecological differences among species can be estimated from phylogenetic relationships (the phylogenetic distance/ecological difference,or PDED, hypothesis). A number of studies have failed to find strong support for this assumption, thus challenging the utility of phylogenetic approaches. This gap might highlight the fact that thePDEDrelationship is not useful for community assembly, but it is difficult to know because the lack of a relationship might also be due to a number of biological or methodological reasons, including inappropriate phylogenies, skewed distributions of phylogenetic distances, the lack of consideration of models of trait evolution, or the absence of sufficient niche space in experimental and observational venues. Each of these limitations, separately or combined, may confound recent experimental or observational results that examine relationships between phylogenetic distance and ecological differences. Notably, common evolutionary models can support alternative conclusions about the relationship between evolutionary distances and ecological differences than typically assumed and can change interpretations of community‐based phylogenetic analyses. Here we review a number of issues that may lead to confounded effects in community phylogenetic analyses. In light of these potential pitfalls, we provide a number of guidelines for researchers to follow and stress that they need to address methodological shortcomings before concluding that ecological differences are unrelated to phylogenetic distances.
On the Effect of the Internal Pressure on the Photoinduced Spin‐Crossover Behavior of [FexM1–x(1,10‐phenanthroline)2(NCS)2] Solid Solutions (M = NiII, ZnII, and CdII)
Authors: Sylla Mame Seyni , Baldé Chérif , Daro Nathalie , Desplanches Cédric , Marchivie Mathieu , Chastanet Guillaume
Published: May 2017

The thermal and light‐induced magnetic properties of a family of metal‐diluted spin‐crossover complexes, [FexM1–x(phen)2(NCS)2] (phen = 1,10‐phenantholine and M = NiII, CdII), are reported and compared to previous results obtained for the same series but with ZnII ions used to substitute FeII ions; the ultimate goal was to validate the influence of the size and nature of the inert metal ion on the light‐induced properties of spin‐crossover compounds. For all of the materials, we measured the thermally induced spin‐crossover temperature (T1/2) and T(LIESST) (LIESST = light‐induced excited spin‐state trapping) values systematically. We observed clearly that the dilution has a strong effect on the magnetic and photomagnetic properties. The magnitude of these effects depends strongly on the nature of the diluting metal. This comparison gives insights into the effect of the size of the diluting ion on T(LIESST) and T1/2 and completes the previous studies on the effect of internal pressure on the lifetime of the photoinduced state.
Label‐free Electrochemical Immunosensor for Cardiac Troponin T Based on Exfoliated Graphite Nanoplatelets Decorated with Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Zanato Nicole , Talamini Lucas , Zapp Eduardo , Brondani Daniela , Vieira Iolanda Cruz
Published: May 2017

This paper describes the application of exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets (xGnP) decorated with gold nanoparticles (AuNP) for the development of a label‐free electrochemical immunosensor for the determination of human cardiac troponin T (TnT), an important cardiac biomarker in the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Heparin‐stabilized AuNP (AuNP‐Hep) were synthesized, characterized and supported on xGnP. The material obtained (AuNP‐Hep‐xGnP) was used as a platform to immobilize the anti‐TnT by adsorption and this was then applied in the construction of an immunosensor. Under optimized conditions, using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and an incubation time of 20 min, the proposed immunosensor showed linearity in the range of 0.050 to 0.35 ng mL−1 TnT, with a calculated limit of detection of 0.016 ng mL−1. The interday precision (n=7) showed a coefficient of variation of 6.5 %. Some potential interferents commonly present in blood plasma samples were investigated and the degree of interference was found to be low (less than 10 %), demonstrating adequate selectivity for analytical applications. The biosensor was successfully applied in the determination of TnT in fortified samples of human blood plasma.
Glucuronides of phytoestrogen flavonoid enhance macrophage function via conversion to aglycones by β‐glucuronidase in macrophages
Authors: Kaneko Atsushi , Matsumoto Takashi , Matsubara Yosuke , Sekiguchi Kyoji , Koseki Junichi , Yakabe Ryo , Aoki Katsuyuki , Aiba Setsuya , Yamasaki Kenshi
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Flavonoids are converted to inactive metabolites like glucuronides in the gut, and circulate mainly as glucuronides in blood stream, resulting in low concentrations of active aglycones in plasma. It is therefore unclear how oral flavonoids exert their effects in tissues. We recently reported the plasma pharmacokinetics of some flavonoids and suggested the possibility that the absorbed flavonoids modified macrophage functions leading to enhance bacterial clearance. We aimed to confirm their pharmacological profiles focusing on tissue macrophages.

Methods

Pseudoinfection was induced by intradermal injection of FITC‐conjugated and killed Staphylococcus aureus into the ears of mice treated with or without genistein 7‐O‐glucuronide (GEN7G, 1 mg/kg, i.v.). FACS analysis was performed on single cell suspensions dispersed enzymatically from the skin lesions at 6 h post pseudoinfection to evaluate phagocytic activities of monocytes/macrophages (CD11b+Ly6G−) and neutrophils (CD11b+Ly6G+). Phagocytosis of the FITC‐conjugated bacteria by four glucuronides including GEN7G was evaluated in cultures of mouse macrophages.

Results

After GEN7G injection, genistein was identified in the inflamed ears as well as GEN7G, and the phagocytic activity of CD11b+Ly6G− cells was increased. GEN7G was converted to genistein by incubation with macrophage‐related β‐glucuronidase. Macrophage culture assays revealed that GEN7G increased phagocytosis, and the action was dampened by a β‐glucuronidase inhibitor. Binding of aglycones to estrogen receptors (ERs), putative receptors of flavonoid aglycones, correlated to biological activities, and glucuronidation reduced the binding to ERs. An ER antagonist suppressed the increase of macrophage function by GEN7G, whereas estradiol enhanced phagocytosis as well.

Conclusions

This study suggests a molecular mechanism by which oral flavonoids are carried as glucuronides and activated to aglycones by β‐glucuronidase in tissue macrophages, and contributes to the pharmacological study of glucuronides.
Comparative study of the correlation between atherosclerosis and osteoporosis in women in Japan and Mongolia
Authors: Fujihara Yuya , Nawata Hajime , Honda Masanao , Kunitake Tsuyoshi , Aida Eiji , Nagai Tetsu , Kuramochi Hitoshi , Ueno Junichi , Yoshimoto Shoji , Muta Kazuo
Published: May 2017

Objective

Associations between vascular calcification and osteoporosis are well documented, yet effects of lifestyle on atherosclerosis and osteoporosis remain unclear. This study evaluated the relationship between atherosclerosis and osteoporosis of people with different lifestyles living on Uku Island in Japan (rice consumption and fishing lifestyle) and in Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia (meat consumption and nomadic lifestyle), and investigated the differences of lifestyles on atherosclerosis and osteoporosis.

Methods

Participants were women aged over 50 years who had undergone a previous medical examination for atherosclerosis and osteoporosis (Uku Island, 104, Ulaanbaatar, 71). Lifestyle habits were obtained by questionnaire. Bone mineral density of the right calcaneus was measured using quantitative ultrasound. Brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity was measured as an index of atherosclerosis.

Results

There were no significant differences in bone mineral density and brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity between the two groups, even though meat and dairy intake, number of meals skipped, and number of children were significantly greater in participants from Ulaanbaatar compared with Uku Island. Brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity showed significant positive correlations with age, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and body mass index and a significant negative correlation with bone mineral density for both groups. With step‐wise multiple regression analysis, brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity significantly correlated with age and bone mineral density for both populations. Systolic blood pressure significantly correlated with brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity for the Ulaanbaatar group.

Conclusions

Despite significant lifestyle differences, similar relationships between atherosclerosis and osteoporosis were observed in women from Uku Island and Ulaanbaatar. Hypertension was a significant contributing factor for atherosclerosis for the Ulaanbaatar group.
On the Minimum Edge‐Density of 4‐Critical Graphs of Girth Five
Authors: Liu Chun‐Hung , Postle Luke
Published: May 2017

In a recent seminal work, Kostochka and Yancey proved that for every 4‐critical graph G. In this article, we prove that for every 4‐critical graph G with girth at least five. When combined with another result of the second author, the improvement on the constant term leads to a corollary that there exist such that for every 4‐critical graph G with girth at least five. Moreover, it provides a unified and shorter proof of both a result of Thomassen and a result of Thomas and Walls without invoking any topological property, where the former proves that every graph with girth five embeddable in the projective plane or torus is 3‐colorable, and the latter proves the same for the Klein bottle.
Lumbar multifidus muscle degenerates in individuals with chronic degenerative lumbar spine pathology
Authors: Shahidi Bahar , Hubbard James C. , Gibbons Michael C. , Ruoss Severin , Zlomislic Vinko , Allen Richard Todd , Garfin Steven R. , Ward Samuel R.
Published: May 2017

Histological and cell‐level changes in the lumbar musculature in individuals with chronic lumbar spine degenerative conditions are not well characterized. Although prior literature supports evidence of changes in fiber type and size, little information exists describing the tissue quality and biology of pathological features of muscle in this population. The purpose of this study was to quantify multifidus tissue composition and structure, inflammation, vascularity, and degeneration in individuals with chronic degenerative lumbar spine pathology. Human multifidus biopsies were acquired from 22 consecutive patients undergoing surgery for chronic degenerative lumbar spine pathology. Relative fractions of muscle, adipose, and extracellular matrix were quantified along with muscle fiber type and cross‐sectional area (CSA) and markers of inflammation, vascularity, satellite cell density, and muscle degeneration. On average, multifidus biopsies contained 48.5% muscle, 11.7% adipose tissue, and 26.1% collagen tissue. Elevated inflammatory cell counts (48.5 ± 30.0 macrophages/mm2) and decreased vascularity (275.6 ± 69.4 vessels/mm2) were also observed compared to normative values. Satellite cell densities were on average 13 ± 9 cells per every 100 muscle fibers. Large fiber CSA (3,996.0 ± 1,909.2 µm2) and a predominance of type I fibers (61.8 ± 18.0%) were observed in addition to evidence of pathological degeneration‐regeneration cycling (18.8 ± 9.4% centrally nucleated fibers, and 55.2 ± 24.2% of muscle regions containing degeneration). High levels of muscle degeneration, inflammation, and decreased vascularity were commonly seen in human multifidus biopsies of individuals with lumbar spine pathology in comparison to normative data. Evidence of active muscle degeneration suggests that changes in muscle tissue are more complex than simple atrophy. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2700–2706, 2017.
Do non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs impair fracture healing? A survey of Australian orthopaedic surgeons
Authors: Ekegren Christina L. , Hart Melissa J. , Cameron Peter A. , Edwards Elton R. , Oppy Andrew , de Steiger Richard , Page Richard , Liew Susan , Hau Raphael , Bucknill Andrew , Gabbe Belinda J.
Published: May 2017

There is currently a lack of clear evidence on the impact of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on fracture healing post‐operatively. Australian orthopaedic surgeons were surveyed about their perceptions of the relationship between NSAIDs and fracture healing to determine whether equipoise exists within the profession. Results demonstrated divergence of opinion amongst Australian orthopaedic surgeons, lending support to the commencement of randomised controlled trials testing the influence of NSAIDs on fracture healing within Australia.
Spectrums and Outcomes of Adnexal Torsion at Different Ages
Authors: Feng Jie‐Ling , Lei Ting , Xie Hong‐Ning , Li Li‐Juan , Du Liu
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To investigate the role of ultrasound in the preoperative diagnosis of adnexal torsion and describe its histological spectrum and outcomes at different ages.

Methods

This study comprised a retrospective investigation of a data set that included 195 female patients with clinically suspected adnexal torsion between January 2010 and July 2015. Each patient received a detailed pelvic ultrasound examination by an experienced ultrasound examiner, and a definitive diagnosis was achieved via surgery. The accuracy of an ultrasonic diagnosis of adnexal torsion was assessed. The patients were divided into three groups: female children and adolescents, fertile women, and postmenopausal women. The size, type, histological spectrum, and outcome of adnexal torsion in the different groups were also described.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of ultrasound were 0.84, 0.77, and 0.81, respectively. There were significant differences in the presence of ultrasonic hallmarks among the true positive, false positive, and false negative cases of adnexal torsion. Ovarian torsion was identified in 94 cases, and isolated tubal torsion was identified in 15 cases. The most common histologic diagnoses of the pediatric group and the other two groups were a normal ovary and teratoma, respectively. The most common histologic diagnoses in the cases of isolated tubal torsion were mesosalpinx cyst and oviduct inflammation.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography plays an important role in the preoperative diagnosis of adnexal torsion. Despite ovarian involvement in most of the cases, isolated oviduct torsion was not uncommon. The spectrum of histological diagnoses varied among the age groups.
Prenatal Sonographic Abnormal Appearances of the Fetal Hyaloid Artery: From Normal Variants to Pathology
Authors: Bronshtein Moshe , Gabbay‐Benziv Rinat , Gover Ayala , Gilboa Yinon , Bardin Ron
Published: May 2017

This is a case series on the abnormal sonographic appearance and outcome of the fetal hyaloid artery (HA) detected during between 1987 and 2015 at one medical center. Fifteen cases were detected during fetal anatomy scans, usually performed at 14 to 16 weeks’ gestation. Three other cases were diagnosed following referral for a second opinion. In nine fetuses, the HA regressed normally throughout pregnancy. Of them, eight neonates had normal outcomes and one had cataract at the same eye. All nine other cases ended with adverse outcomes. Failure of the HA to regress in the third trimester appears to be an indicator of congenital blindness.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Sonography for Detection of a Fistula on the Birth Day in Neonates With an Imperforate Anus: Comparison of Diagnostic Performance Between Suprapubic and Perineal Approaches
Authors: Hosokawa Takahiro , Yamada Yoshitake , Tanami Yutaka , Hattori Shinya , Sato Yumiko , Tanaka Yujiro , Kawashima Hiroshi , Hosokawa Mayumi , Oguma Eiji
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of sonography for detection of an internal fistula on the birth day in neonates with an imperforate anus and to compare the diagnostic performance between the suprapubic and perineal approaches.

Methods

We included 46 neonates with an imperforate anus (29 low type and 17 intermediate/high type) who underwent sonography by both the suprapubic and perineal approaches on the birth day. Thirty‐nine neonates had internal fistulas, and 12 did not, as surgically proven. Two blinded radiologists evaluated the suprapubic and perineal sonograms for the presence of the internal fistula in consensus. A final diagnosis of the internal fistula was determined on the basis of the findings of both approaches. A receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to compare the diagnostic performance for detection of an internal fistula between the suprapubic and perineal approaches.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the final diagnosis based on the findings of suprapubic, perineal, and both approaches were 52.9%, 79.4%, and 79.4%; 75.5%, 75.5%, and 75.5%; and 58.7%, 78.3%, and 78.3%, respectively. The diagnostic performance of the perineal approach was significantly better than that of the suprapubic approach (P < .0001).

Conclusions

The diagnostic accuracy of sonography for detection of an internal fistula on the birth day exceeded 75% in neonates with an imperforate anus, and sonography on the birth day is feasible. The perineal approach had superior diagnostic performance over the suprapubic approach. Thus, when evaluating an internal fistula by sonography, we recommend using the perineal approach in addition to the suprapubic approach.
Pair Scanning: Integrating the Student Sonographer Without Impacting Patient Care
Authors: Docherty Marcia A. , Foran Kathleen E. , Burnett‐Roy Susan , May Samantha
Published: May 2017

Objectives

Ultrasound departments in Canada frequently reduce patient bookings to support student training, which impacts not only patient care but also revenue generation. Therefore, physicians and employers are reluctant to host student sonographers, and educational programs struggle to find sufficient clinical placements for their students. Two research questions were investigated: (1) Can a pair scanning technique effectively integrate the student sonographer into the workplace without impacting patient volumes? (2) Does the pair scanning technique prepare the student sonographer for entry‐level practice faster than traditional practice?

Methods

This research project was divided into 2 phases. The first phase used action research to develop the pair scanning protocol at a single site with a single preceptor and student. The second phase used a mixed methods approach to test the transferability of the pair scanning protocol across multiple sites, preceptors, and students.

Results

In phase 1, the student sonographer performed a greater number of total examinations than the rest of her cohort (who were at different placement sites), and the higher performance of independent examinations by the student sonographer under the pair scanning technique was statistically significant [H(4) = 36.297; P < .01]. In phase 2, the pair scanning group and the control group performed equally, with no statistically significant differences.

Conclusions

The pair scanning protocol is effective at integrating the student sonographer into the work flow without impacting patient care. It prepares the student sonographer for entry‐level practice equally with traditional practice and may be most effective with the weak to average student.
Metalenses at visible wavelengths: past, present, perspectives
Authors: Lalanne Philippe , Chavel Pierre
Published: May 2017

The so‐called ‘flat optics’ that shape the amplitude and phase of light with high spatial resolution are presently receiving considerable attention. Numerous journal publications seemingly offer hope for great promises for ultra‐flat metalenses with high efficiency, high numerical aperture, broadband operation… We temperate the expectation by referring to the current status of metalenses against their historical background, assessing the technical and scientific challenges recently solved and critically identifying those that still stand in the way.

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Understanding the Microstructure of Living Ethylene/1‐Octene Block Copolymers with Dynamic Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Tongtummachat Tiprawee , Anantawaraskul Siripon , Soares João B. P.
Published: May 2017

Living ethylene/1‐olefin copolymerization with multiple comonomer feeding stages allows the production of living block copolymers (LBCs) with well‐controlled microstructures. A dynamic Monte Carlo model is developed to simulate the production of LBCs in a semibatch reactor, and it is used to study how the polymer microstructure evolves during the polymerization. The model also describes how chain transfer reactions affect the microstructure of LBC blocks. These model predictions provide useful guidelines for producing LBCs with precisely designed microstructures.

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A data assimilation process for linear ill‐posed problems
Authors: Yang X.‐M. , Deng Z.‐L.
Published: May 2017

In this paper, an iteration process is considered to solve linear ill‐posed problems. Based on the randomness of the involved variables, this kind of problems is regarded as simulation problems of the posterior distribution of the unknown variable given the noise data. We construct a new ensemble Kalman filter‐based method to seek the posterior target distribution. Despite the ensemble Kalman filter method having widespread applications, there has been little analysis of its theoretical properties, especially in the field of inverse problems. This paper analyzes the propagation of the error with the iteration step for the proposed algorithm. The theoretical analysis shows that the proposed algorithm is convergence. We compare the numerical effect with the Bayesian inversion approach by two numerical examples: backward heat conduction problem and the first kind of integral equation. The numerical tests show that the proposed algorithm is effective and competitive with the Bayesian method. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of stimulated electromyography in the analysis of the neuromuscular junction in children
Authors: Pitt Matthew C.
Published: May 2017

A screening test is required to diagnose disorders of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in children. This Review describes the development of stimulation potential analysis with concentric needle electrodes (SPACE). This nomenclature was chosen to distinguish the technique from single‐fiber methodology because of the difficulties in identifying single‐fiber potentials in most studies, particularly those with the most severe abnormalities of the NMJ. Performed on orbicularis oculi in children with proven or probable disorders of the NMJ, it demonstrated a sensitivity of 84%, specificity of 71%, negative predictive value of 95%, and positive predictive value of 36%. It is well tolerated and within the capability of any clinical neurophysiologist. When combined with a full electrodiagnostic examination, SPACE provides invaluable information about children with NMJ disorders, whose diagnosis often is difficult. Muscle Nerve 56: 841–847, 2017
Dynamic basis of fidelity and speed in translation: Coordinated multistep mechanisms of elongation and termination
Authors: Prabhakar Arjun , Choi Junhong , Wang Jinfan , Petrov Alexey , Puglisi Joseph D.
Published: May 2017

As the universal machine that transfers genetic information from RNA to protein, the ribosome synthesizes proteins with remarkably high fidelity and speed. This is a result of the accurate and efficient decoding of mRNA codons via multistep mechanisms during elongation and termination stages of translation. These mechanisms control how the correct sense codon is recognized by a tRNA for peptide elongation, how the next codon is presented to the decoding center without change of frame during translocation, and how the stop codon is discriminated for timely release of the nascent peptide. These processes occur efficiently through coupling of chemical energy expenditure, ligand interactions, and conformational changes. Understanding this coupling in detail required integration of many techniques that were developed in the past two decades. This multidisciplinary approach has revealed the dynamic nature of translational control and uncovered how external cellular factors such as tRNA abundance and mRNA modifications affect the synthesis of the protein product. Insights from these studies will aid synthetic biology and therapeutic approaches to translation.
Diving into traversable wormholes
Authors: Maldacena Juan , Stanford Douglas , Yang Zhenbin
Published: May 2017

We study various aspects of wormholes that are made traversable by an interaction beween the two asymptotic boundaries. We concentrate on the case of nearly‐ gravity and discuss a very simple mechanical picture for the gravitational dynamics. We derive a formula for the two sided correlators that includes the effect of gravitational backreaction, which limits the amount of information we can send through the wormhole. We emphasize that the process can be viewed as a teleportation protocol where the teleportee feels nothing special as he/she goes through the wormhole. We discuss some applications to the cloning paradox for old black holes. We point out that the same formula we derived for gravity is also valid for the simple SYK quantum mechanical theory, around the thermofield double state. We present a heuristic picture for this phenomenon in terms of an operator growth model. Finally, we show that a similar effect is present in a completely classical chaotic system with a large number of degrees of freedom.
Phase and Facet Control of Molybdenum Carbide Nanosheet Observed by In Situ TEM
Authors: Lin Ziyuan , Cai Lejuan , Lu Wei , Chai Yang
Published: May 2017

Transition metal carbides are of great potential for electrochemical applications. The phase and facet of molybdenum carbides greatly affect the electrochemical performance. Carburization of MoO3 inside a transmission electron microscope to monitor the growth process of molybdenum carbides is performed. Carbon sources with different activities are used and the controllable growth of molybdenum carbides is investigated. The results show that the relatively inert amorphous carbon film produces Mo2C, where the interstitial sites formed by hexagonal closed packing molybdenum atoms are partially occupied by carbon atoms. In contrast, the carbon decomposed from the sucrose has a high portion of sp3 hybridized and crosslinked carbon atoms with high reactivity, leading to the formation of MoC with full occupation of interstitial sites by carbon atoms. In addition, the MoC growth experiences a (111) to (100) facets change with the increase of temperature. The (111) facet formed at low temperature has Mo‐terminated or C‐terminated surface with higher surface energy and higher reactivity, while the (100) facet with 1:1 C/Mo ratio on the surface exhibits enhanced stability. The phase and facet control by carbon source and temperature allow us to tune the crystal structures and surface atoms as well as their electrochemical properties.
Rives Technique for the Primary Larger Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Prospective Study of 1000 Repairs
Authors: Grau‐Talens Enrique J. , Ibáñez Carlos D. , Motos‐Micó Jacob , García‐Olives Francisco , Arribas‐Jurado Martina , Jordán‐Chaves Carlos , Aparicio‐Gallego José M. , Salgado José F.
Published: May 2017

Objective

We report a prospective study of repairs using the Rives technique of the more difficult primary inguinal hernias, focusing on the immediate post‐operative period, clinical recurrence, testicular atrophy, and chronic pain. A mesh placed in the preperitoneal space can reduce recurrences and chronic pain.

Methods

For the larger primary inguinal hernias (Types 3, 4, 6, and some 7), we favour preperitoneal placement of a mesh, covering the myopectineal orifice by means of a transinguinal (Rives technique) approach. The Rives technique was performed on 943 patients (1000 repairs), preferably under local anaesthesia plus sedation in ambulatory surgery.

Results

The mean operative time was 31.8 min. Pain assessment after 24 h with an Andersen scale and a categorical scale gave two patients with intense pain on the Andersen scale, and four patients who thought their state was bad. Surgical wound complications were below 1%, and urinary retention was 1.2% mostly associated with spinal anaesthesia and, in one case, bladder perforation. There was spermatic cord and testicular oedema with some degree of orchitis in 17 patients. The clinical follow‐up of 849 repairs (86.4%), mean (range) 30.0 (12–192) months, gave five recurrences (0.6%), three cases (0.4%) of testicular atrophy, and 37 (4.3%) of post‐operative chronic pain (8 patients with visual analogue scale of 3–10).

Conclusions

The Rives technique requires a sound knowledge of inguinal preperitoneal space anatomy, but it is an excellent technique for the larger and difficult primary inguinal hernias, giving a low rate of recurrences and chronic pain.
Paraesophageal Hernia and Reflux Prevention: Is One Fundoplication Better than the Other?
Authors: Andolfi Ciro , Plana Alejandro , Furno Sara , Fisichella Piero Marco
Published: May 2017

Background

The management of paraesophageal hernia (PEH) is one of the most debated in surgery. Trends regarding indications, approach (open, laparoscopic, thoracoscopic), sac excision, mesh placement, and routine performance of fundoplication have changed over time. Today, most surgeons tend to perform a laparoscopic PEH repair that entails the excision of the sac, liberal use of a mesh to buttress the hiatus, and the addition of an anti‐reflux procedure. Nevertheless, very little has been written on which type of fundoplication should be performed in these patients. Therefore, the goal of our study was to provide an evidence‐based overview of which type of fundoplication should be performed during a PEH repair and the role of preoperative function tests in the decision‐making

Methods

We searched the MEDLINE, Cochran, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase databases for papers published between 1996 and 2016 pertaining to the surgical treatment of PEH. We hand‐searched the bibliographies of included studies and we excluded all reviews and case reports. We selected clinical studies and technical reports. We only considered papers stating rationales for the type of fundoplication performed.

Results

Our search yielded 24 articles: 17 clinical studies and 7 technical reports. In five of the clinical studies, a fundoplication was added only to patients with reflux symptoms. In all clinical studies, the most performed procedure was a total fundoplication (Nissen or Nissen‐Rossetti), whereas a partial fundoplication (Toupet more frequently than Dor) or no fundoplication was reserved to those with impaired esophageal motility. All seven technical reports recommended a tailored approach and suggested adding a partial fundoplication (mainly Toupet) when the manometric findings showed esophageal dismotility.

Conclusion

The argument of whether or not a fundoplication should be added to a PEH repair in patients without evidence of reflux still persists. However, this review highlights that, when a fundoplication is performed, a tailored approach based on preoperative function tests is almost always preferred.
Preference for Boys, Family Size, and Educational Attainment in India
Authors: Kugler Adriana D. , Kumar Santosh
Published: May 2017

Using data from nationally representative household surveys, we test whether Indian parents make trade-offs between the number of children and investments in education. To address the endogeneity due to the joint determination of quantity and quality of children, we instrument family size with the gender of the first child, which is plausibly random. Given a strong son preference in India, parents tend to have more children if the firstborn is a girl. Our instrumental variable results show that children from larger families have lower educational attainment and are less likely to be enrolled in school, with larger effects for rural, poorer, and low-caste families as well as for families with illiterate mothers.
Nicolaus of Damascus: The Life of Augustus and The Autobiography
Authors: Nicolaus of Damascus
Published: May 2017

Nicolaus of Damascus, the chief minister of Herod the Great, was an exact contemporary of the first Roman emperor Augustus; he spent considerable time in Roman society and knew Augustus. The extensive remains of his Bios Kaisaros contain the earliest and most detailed account of the conspiracy against Julius Caesar and his assassination. The Bios also presents the most extensive account of the boyhood and early development of Augustus. This edition presents the Greek text and translation of the Bios and Nicolaus' autobiography, along with a historical and historiographical commentary. The Introduction situates the text in relation to the considerable evidence for the life and career of Nicolaus preserved in the works of Josephus, addresses the problem of its date of composition, analyses the language and narrative technique of Nicolaus and discusses the Bios in relation to the evidence for Greek biographical encomium.
Fourier Integrals in Classical Analysis
Authors: Sogge Christopher D.
Published: May 2017

This advanced monograph is concerned with modern treatments of central problems in harmonic analysis. The main theme of the book is the interplay between ideas used to study the propagation of singularities for the wave equation and their counterparts in classical analysis. In particular, the author uses microlocal analysis to study problems involving maximal functions and Riesz means using the so-called half-wave operator. To keep the treatment self-contained, the author begins with a rapid review of Fourier analysis and also develops the necessary tools from microlocal analysis. This second edition includes two new chapters. The first presents Hörmander's propagation of singularities theorem and uses this to prove the Duistermaat–Guillemin theorem. The second concerns newer results related to the Kakeya conjecture, including the maximal Kakeya estimates obtained by Bourgain and Wolff.