bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ECTFE membranes produced by non-toxic diluents for organic solvent filtration separation
Authors: Ursino C. , Simone S. , Donato L. , Santoro S. , De Santo M. P. , Drioli E. , Di Nicolò E. , Figoli A.
Published: August 2016

A new grade of ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene, low melting point HALAR® ECTFE (LMP ECTFE), was studied and used as a polymer for the preparation of solvent-resistant flat-sheet membranes.
A FRET-based fluorescent approach for labetalol sensing using calix[6]arene functionalized MnO2@graphene as a receptor
Authors: Ye Hanzhang , Yang Long , Zhao Genfu , Zhang Yanqiong , Ran Xin , Wu Shilian , Zou Suo , Xie Xiaoguang , Zhao Hui , Li Can-Peng
Published: August 2016

A turn-on fluorescent sensing platform for labetalol has been developed based on competitive host–guest interaction between p-sulfonated calix[6]arene (SCX6) and target molecule by using SCX6 functionalized MnO2@reduced graphene oxide as a receptor.
Development of an α-linolenic acid containing soft nanocarrier for oral delivery: in vitro and in vivo evaluation
Authors: Singh Mahendra , Kanoujia Jovita , Singh Pooja , Tripathi Chandra B. , Arya Malti , Parashar Poonam , Sinha Vivek R. , Saraf Shubhini A.
Published: August 2016

Use of α-linolenic acid as an oil phase for microemulsion preparation with synergistic effect of oil in lowering of lipid levels in combination with simvastatin.
Electropolymerization and electrochemical behavior of nickel Schiff base complexes with different groups between imine linkages
Authors: Chen Cheng , Li Xinping , Deng Fuhai , Li Jianling
Published: August 2016

Nickel Schiff base complexes Ni(salen), Ni(salphen) and Ni(saldmp) are synthesized and electropolymerized on multiwalled carbon nanotube electrodes.
High-performance polymeric ionic liquid–silica hybrid ionogel electrolytes for lithium metal batteries
Authors: Li Xiaowei , Li Sijian , Zhang Zhengxi , Huang Jun , Yang Li , Hirano Shin-ichi
Published: August 2016

Hybrid ionogel electrolytes have high thermal and electrochemical stability, good ionic conductivity, and potential to suppress Li dendrite formation. Solid-state lithium metal batteries with hybrid electrolytes reveal high capacity and remarkable rate performance.
Metal-nanostructures – a modern and powerful platform to create transparent electrodes for thin-film photovoltaics
Authors: Zilberberg Kirill , Riedl Thomas
Published: August 2016

The recent progress of semi-transparent electrodes based on thin metal layers or metal nanowires and their application in solar cells are reviewed.
Processing and surface modification of polymer nanofibers for biological scaffolds: a review
Authors: Jordan Alex M. , Viswanath Vidya , Kim Si-Eun , Pokorski Jonathan K. , Korley LaShanda T. J.
Published: August 2016

This review discusses existing and emerging polymeric nanofiber fabrication techniques, fiber surface modificationviapost-processing, and their combined effects on cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration.
The Ross Procedure in Adults: Long-Term Results of Homografts and Stentless Xenografts for Pulmonary Valve Replacement
Authors: Claus Benjamin , Woythal Nadine , Dushe Simon , Falk Volkmar , Grubitzsch Herko , Christ Torsten
Published: August 2016

Background The Ross procedure is an established method to treat aortic valve disease, offering excellent hemodynamic characteristics, growth potential, low risk of thromboembolism and no need for anticoagulation. Limitation of homograft quality and availability led to the use of different stentless xenografts. Long-term outcome and implications are yet to be addressed.

Methods Forty five adult patients (mean age 38.8 ± 9.6 years) with aortic valve stenosis and/or insufficiency, who underwent the Ross procedure between 1995 and 2002 were identified for long-term evaluation. Patients younger than 18 years, with previous heart surgery and endocarditis were excluded. Stentless xenografts were used in 22 cases (Group X) and homografts in 23 cases (Group H). After review of the patients' history, morbidity and mortality were analyzed and risk stratification was performed.

Results Between groups, baseline characteristics and operative data did not differ significantly. Total follow-up was 621.0 patient-years and 98.8% complete. Overall freedom from reoperation at 15 years was 68.4 ± 10.6% in group X and 85. ±  7.9% in group H (p = 0.09), respectively. Freedom from aortic valve reoperation at 15 years was comparable (83.9 ± 8.5% in group X and 85.3 ± 7.9% in group H, p = 0.61), whereas freedom from pulmonary valve reoperation at 15 years was significantly lower in group X (78.9 ± 9.4% versus 100%, p = 0.02). Long-term survival at 15 years was 79.7 ± 9.3% in group X and 94.4 ± 5.4% in group H (p = 0.07), respectively.

Conclusions Stentless xenografts used as pulmonary valve substitute in the Ross procedure led to lower freedom from pulmonary valve reoperation compared with homografts. Additionally, there was a trend to inferior long-term survival with xenografts. Therefore, homografts should remain the preferred option for pulmonary valve replacement in the Ross procedure.
Individualized Surgical Treatments for Children with Ebstein Anomaly
Authors: Jinghao Zheng , Yanhui Huang , Zhongqun Zhu , Botao Gao , Xinwei Du , Zhiwei Xu , Jinfen Liu , Kai Luo
Published: August 2016

Objective Ebstein anomaly is a rare type of tricuspid malformation. The present surgical methods to resolve this anomaly include tricuspid valvuloplasty, palliative surgery, and tricuspid valve replacement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short- and midterm outcomes of different surgical treatments among children with Ebstein anomaly.

Methods This was a retrospective study of 136 Ebstein anomaly patients undergoing surgery at our institution from January, 2006 to August, 2015. This cohort included 118 patients receiving tricuspid valvuloplasty, 14 patients receiving palliative surgery and 4 patients receiving tricuspid valve replacement.

Results There were two in-hospital deaths and one delayed death 6 months after bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt during a second-stage operation; thus, the mortality rate was 2.2% (3/136). The follow-up variables included echocardiography, chest radiography, oxygen saturation, and cardiac function. After a mean follow-up duration of 35.8 ± 16.5 months (range: 6–98 months), all survivors had no indications for reoperation; the oxygen saturation following radical surgery and palliative surgery was 95 to 100% and 85 to 95%, respectively. Most of the patients exhibited an improved New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class from III or IV preoperatively to I or II at follow-up; only two patients who underwent the Fontan procedure continued to exhibit NYHA functional class III. In most patients, tricuspid regurgitation (TR) degree decreased from moderate or severe preoperatively to mild or moderate at follow-up and only six patients continued to exhibit severe TR at follow-up.

Conclusions Individualization of surgical methods based on different indications, including age, associated malformations, tricuspid anatomy, cardiac function, and intraoperative status, could effectively improve the outcomes of Ebstein anomaly patients.
Anterior Spinal Artery Infarct Secondary to “Rotatory Atlantoaxial Subluxation” in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Tanki Humam Nisar , Ramzan Altaf Umar , Arif Sajad Hussain , Chhiber Sarbjit Singh
Published: August 2016

Spinal cord infarction in children is a rare condition that is becoming more widely recognized. There are few reports in the pediatric literature characterizing etiology, diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis of anterior spinal artery infarction following rotatory atlantoaxial subluxation. In many children, the cause of spinal cord ischemia in the absence of vertebral fracture is unknown and is often wrongly diagnosed. Imaging diagnosis of spinal cord ischemia is often difficult due to the small transverse area of the cord, cerebrospinal fluid artifact, and inadequate resolution. The prognosis depends on the level of spinal cord damage, early identification and reversal of ischemia, and follow-up with intensive physical therapy and medical support. In addition to summarizing the literature on spinal cord infarction in children following cervical trauma, this article adds to the literature another case of a child with anterior spinal artery territory infarction due to rotatory atlantoaxial subluxation, leading to kinking and occlusion of vertebral artery, which highlights the difficulties and controversies in the management of this condition.
Effects of guest atomic species on the lattice thermal conductivity of type-I silicon clathrate studied via classical molecular dynamics
Authors: Kumagai Tomohisa , Nakamura Kaoru , Yamada Susumu , Ohnuma Toshiharu
Published: August 2016

The effects of guest atomic species in Si clathrates on the lattice thermal conductivity were studied using classical molecular dynamics calculations. The interaction between a host atom and a guest atom was described by the Morse potential function while that between host atoms was described by the Tersoff potential. The parameters of the potentials were newly determined for this study such that the potential curves obtained from first-principles calculations for the insertion of a guest atom into a Si cage were successfully reproduced. The lattice thermal conductivities were calculated by using the Green-Kubo method. The experimental lattice thermal conductivity of Ba8Ga16Si30 can be successfully reproduced using the method. As a result, the lattice thermal conductivities of type-I Si clathrates, M8Si46 (M = Na, Mg, K, Ca Rb, Sr, Cs, or Ba), were obtained. It is found that the lattice thermal conductivities of M8Si46, where M is IIA elements (i.e., M = Mg, Ca, Sr, or Ba) tend to be lower than those of M8Si46, where M is IA elements (i.e., M = Na, K, Rb, or Cs). Those of mM8Si46, where m was artificially modified atomic weight were also obtained. The obtained lattice thermal conductivity can be regarded as a function of a characteristic frequency, fc. That indicates minimum values around fc=2-4 THz, which corresponds to the center of the frequencies of the transverse acoustic phonon modes associated with Si cages.
Democratizing an electroluminescence imaging apparatus and analytics project for widespread data acquisition in photovoltaic materials
Authors: Fada Justin S. , Wheeler Nicholas R. , Zabiyaka Davis , Goel Nikhil , Peshek Timothy J. , French Roger H.
Published: August 2016

We present a description of an electroluminescence (EL) apparatus, easily sourced from commercially available components, with a quantitative image processing platform that demonstrates feasibility for the widespread utility of EL imaging as a characterization tool. We validated our system using a Gage R&R analysis to find a variance contribution by the measurement system of 80.56%, which is typically unacceptable, but through quantitative image processing and development of correction factors a variance contribution by the measurement system of 2.41% was obtained. We further validated the system by quantifying the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and found values consistent with other systems published in the literature, at SNR values of 10-100, albeit at exposure times of greater than 1 s compared to 10 ms for other systems. This SNR value range is acceptable for image feature recognition, providing the opportunity for widespread data acquisition and large scale data analytics of photovoltaics.
The preplasma effect on the properties of the shock wave driven by a fast electron beam
Authors: Llor Aisa E. , Ribeyre X. , Gus'kov S. Yu. , Tikhonchuk V. T.
Published: August 2016

Strong shock wave generation by a mono-energetic fast electron beam in a plasma with an increasing density profile is studied theoretically. The proposed analytical model describes the shock wave characteristics for a homogeneous plasma preceded by a low density precursor. The shock pressure and the time of shock formation depend on the ratio of the electron stopping length to the preplasma areal density and on the initial energy of injected electrons. The conclusions of theoretical model are confirmed in numerical simulations.
Development of a cascade arc discharge source for an atmosphere-vacuum interface device
Authors: Namba S. , Endo T. , Fujino S. , Suzuki C. , Tamura N.
Published: August 2016

To realize a novel vacuum-atmosphere interface that does not require a large differential pumping system, a robust cascade arc discharge source called a plasma window is constructed and tested for long-term operation. By modifying a test plasma with a direct current discharge, a vacuum interface with a high gas pressure ratio of 1/407 between the discharge and expansion sections is demonstrated for currents as high as 20 A. No significant damage to the electrodes is observed during the operation. Analysis of the visible emission spectra reveals that a stationary, stable argon plasma having a temperature of 1 eV and a density of 1.5 × 1016 cm−3 is generated in the plasma channel.
Low-pressure phase diagram of crystalline benzene from quantum Monte Carlo
Authors: Azadi Sam , Cohen R. E.
Published: August 2016

We studied the low-pressure (0–10 GPa) phase diagram of crystalline benzene using quantum Monte Carlo and density functional theory (DFT) methods. We performed diffusion quantum Monte Carlo (DMC) calculations to obtain accurate static phase diagrams as benchmarks for modern van der Waals density functionals. Using density functional perturbation theory, we computed the phonon contributions to the free energies. Our DFT enthalpy-pressure phase diagrams indicate that the Pbca and P21/c structures are the most stable phases within the studied pressure range. The DMC Gibbs free-energy calculations predict that the room temperature Pbca to P21/c phase transition occurs at 2.1(1) GPa. This prediction is consistent with available experimental results at room temperature. Our DMC calculations give 50.6 ± 0.5 kJ/mol for crystalline benzene lattice energy.
First fast-ion D-alpha (FIDA) measurements and simulations on C-2U
Authors: Bolte N. G. , Gupta D. , Stagner L. , Onofri M. , Dettrick S. , Granstedt E. M. , Petrov P.
Published: August 2016

The first measurements of fast-ion D-alpha (FIDA) radiation have been acquired on C-2U, Tri Alpha Energy’s advanced, beam-driven field-reversed configuration (FRC). These measurements are also forward modeled by FIDASIM. This is the first measurement and simulation of FIDA carried out on an FRC topology. FIDA measurements are made of Doppler-shifted Balmer-alpha light from neutralized fast ions using a bandpass filter and photomultiplier tube. One adjustable line-of-sight measured signals at eight locations and eight times during the FRC lifetime over 26 discharges. Filtered signals include only the highest energy ions (>6 keV) and share some salient features with the FIDASIM result. Highly Doppler-shifted beam radiation is also measured with a high-speed camera and is spatially well-correlated with FIDASIM.
Strong exciton-photon coupling in organic single crystal microcavity with high molecular orientation
Authors: Goto Kaname , Yamashita Kenichi , Yanagi Hisao , Yamao Takeshi , Hotta Shu
Published: August 2016

Strong exciton-photon coupling has been observed in a highly oriented organic single crystal microcavity. This microcavity consists of a thiophene/phenylene co-oligomer (TPCO) single crystal laminated on a high-reflection distributed Bragg reflector. In the TPCO crystal, molecular transition dipole was strongly polarized along a certain horizontal directions with respect to the main crystal plane. This dipole polarization causes significantly large anisotropies in the exciton transition and optical constants. Especially the anisotropic exciton transition was found to provide the strong enhancement in the coupling with the cavity mode, which was demonstrated by a Rabi splitting energy as large as ∼100 meV even in the “half-vertical cavity surface emitting lasing” microcavity structure.
Performance characteristics according to the radial position of gas distributor holes in a low-power cylindrical Hall thruster
Authors: Gao Yuanyuan , Liu Hui , Hu Peng , Huang Hongyan , Yu Daren
Published: August 2016

The effect of radial position of gas holes in the distributor on the performance of cylindrical Hall thruster was investigated. A series of gas distributors with different radial positions (Rg) of holes were designed in the experiment. The results show that the larger Rg leads to the higher ion current and electron current; meanwhile, the beam angle in plume is narrowed. Nevertheless, the peak energy in ion energy distribution function increases, together with the narrowing of ion energy distribution function. As a result, the overall performance is enhanced. It is suggested that the growing of Rg could lead to the movement of the main ionization region towards anode, which could promote ion velocity and the clearer separation of acceleration region from ionization region. This work can provide some optimal design ideas to improve the performance of the thruster.
Triple-wavelength infrared plasmonic thermal emitter using hybrid dielectric materials in periodic arrangement
Authors: Huang Wei-Lun , Hsiao Hui-Hsin , Tang Ming-Ru , Lee Si-Chen
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a triple-wavelength infrared plasmonic thermal emitter using a periodic arrangement of hybrid dielectric materials within a tri-layer metal/dielectric/metal structure. The proposed arrangement makes it possible to sustain multiple resonance of localized surface plasmons (LSP), thereby providing an additional degree of freedom by which to vary the resonant wavelengths in the medium infrared region. Variations in the effective refractive index due to the different modal distribution within dielectric gratings results in multiple LSP resonances, and the resonant wavelengths can be easily tuned by altering the compositions of hybrid dielectric materials. The measured dispersion relation diagram and the finite difference time domain simulation indicated that the resonances were localized. They also indicate that the magnetic fields generated by the multiple LSP modes exhibit distribution patterns similar to that of a standing wave in the periodic arrangement of the hybrid dielectric layer, each of which presents an emission peak corresponding to a different modal order.
A simple method for characterizing and engineering thermal relaxation of an optical microcavity
Authors: Chen Weijian , Zhu Jiangang , Özdemir Şahin Kaya , Peng Bo , Yang Lan
Published: August 2016

Thermal properties of a photonic resonator are determined not only by intrinsic properties of materials, such as thermo-optic coefficient, but also by the geometry and structure of the resonator. Techniques for characterization and measurement of thermal properties of individual photonic resonator will benefit numerous applications. In this work, we demonstrate a method to optically measure the thermal relaxation time and effective thermal conductance of a whispering gallery mode microcavity using optothermal effect. Two nearby optical modes within the cavity are optically probed, which allows us to quantify the thermal relaxation process of the cavity by analyzing changes in the transmission spectra induced by optothermal effect. We show that the effective thermal conductance can be experimentally deduced from the thermal relaxation measurement, and it can be tailored by changing the geometric parameters of the cavity. The experimental observations are in good agreement with the proposed analytical modeling. This method can be applied to various resonators in different forms.
Note: Electron energy spectroscopy mapping of surface with scanning tunneling microscope
Authors: Li Meng , Xu Chunkai , Zhang Panke , Li Zhean , Chen Xiangjun
Published: August 2016

We report a novel scanning probe electron energy spectrometer (SPEES) which combines a double toroidal analyzer with a scanning tunneling microscope to achieve both topography imaging and electron energy spectroscopy mapping of surface in situ. The spatial resolution of spectroscopy mapping is determined to be better than 0.7 ± 0.2 μm at a tip sample distance of 7 μm. Meanwhile, the size of the field emission electron beam spot on the surface is also measured, and is about 3.6 ± 0.8 μm in diameter. This unambiguously demonstrates that the spatial resolution of SPEES technique can be much better than the size of the incident electron beam.
Entropic and gradient flow formulations for nonlinear diffusion
Authors: Dirr Nicolas , Stamatakis Marios , Zimmer Johannes
Published: August 2016

Nonlinear diffusion ∂tρ = Δ(Φ(ρ)) is considered for a class of nonlinearities Φ. It is shown that for suitable choices of Φ, an associated Lyapunov functional can be interpreted as thermodynamic entropy. This information is used to derive an associated metric, here called thermodynamic metric. The analysis is confined to nonlinear diffusion obtainable as hydrodynamic limit of a zero range process. The thermodynamic setting is linked to a large deviation principle for the underlying zero range process and the corresponding equation of fluctuating hydrodynamics. For the latter connections, the thermodynamic metric plays a central role.
Monolayer borophene electrode for effective elimination of both the Schottky barrier and strong electric field effect
Authors: Liu L. Z. , Xiong S. J. , Wu X. L.
Published: August 2016

The formation of Schottky barriers between 2D semiconductors and traditional metallic electrodes has greatly limited the application of 2D semiconductors in nanoelectronic and optoelectronic devices. In this study, metallic borophene was used as a substitute for the traditional noble metal electrode to contact with the 2D semiconductor. Theoretical calculations demonstrated that no Schottky barrier exists in the borophene/2D semiconductor heterostructure. The contact remains ohmic even with a strong electric field applied. This finding provides a way to construct 2D electronic devices and sensors with greatly enhanced performance.
Multifrequency acoustics as a probe of mesoscopic blood coagulation dynamics
Authors: Ganesan Adarsh , Rajendran Gokulnath , Ercole Ari , Seshia Ashwin
Published: August 2016

Coagulation is a complex enzymatic polymerisation cascade. Disordered coagulation is common in medicine and may be life-threatening yet clinical assays are typically bulky and/or provide an incomplete picture of clot mechanical evolution. We present the adaptation of an in-plane acoustic wave device: quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation at multiple harmonics to determine the time-evolution of mesoscale mechanical properties of clot formation in vitro. This approach is sensitive to changes in surface and bulk clot structure in various models of induced coagulopathy. Furthermore, we are able to show that clot formation at surfaces has different kinetics and mechanical strength to that in the bulk, which may have implications for the design of bioprosthetic materials. The “Multifrequency acoustics” approach thus enables unique capability to portray biological processes concerning blood coagulation.
Improvement of the low frequency oscillation model for Hall thrusters
Authors: Wang Chunsheng , Wang Huashan
Published: August 2016

The low frequency oscillation of the discharge current in Hall thrusters is a major aspect of these devices that requires further study. While the existing model captures the ionization mechanism of the low frequency oscillation, it unfortunately fails to express the dynamic characteristics of the ion acceleration. The analysis in this paper shows this is because of the simplification of the electron equation, which affects both the electric field distribution and the ion acceleration process. Additionally, the electron density equation is revised and a new model that is based on the physical properties of ion movement is proposed.
Making sound vortices by metasurfaces
Authors: Ye Liping , Qiu Chunyin , Lu Jiuyang , Tang Kun , Jia Han , Ke Manzhu , Peng Shasha , Liu Zhengyou
Published: August 2016

Based on the Huygens-Fresnel principle, a metasurface structure is designed to generate a sound vortex beam in airborne environment. The metasurface is constructed by a thin planar plate perforated with a circular array of deep subwavelength resonators with desired phase and amplitude responses. The metasurface approach in making sound vortices is validated well by full-wave simulations and experimental measurements. Potential applications of such artificial spiral beams can be anticipated, as exemplified experimentally by the torque effect exerting on an absorbing disk.
Disease threats to wild and cultured abalone in Australia
Authors: Dang Cecile , Miller Terrence L
Published: August 2016

Abalone species are important for recreational and commercial fisheries and aquaculture in many jurisdictions in Australia. Clinical infections with viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens can cause significant losses of wild and cultured stock, and subclinical infections may result in decreased productivity and growth. Infections with abalone herpesviruses (AbHV), Vibrio spp. and parasites of the genus Perkinsus are of particular concern to Australian fisheries. Here we provide a brief overview of these three major pathogen groups and their diagnoses from an Australian perspective.
The forgotten shellfish reefs of coastal Victoria: documenting the loss of a marine ecosystem over 200 years since European settlement
Authors: Ford John R. , Hamer Paul
Published: August 2016

Victoria has lost vast areas (>95%) of native flat oyster (Ostrea angasi, Sowerby 1871) and blue mussel (Mytilus edulis galloprovinicialis, Lamarck 1819) reefs from estuarine and coastal waters since European settlement. We document the decline of these reefs by examining indigenous use of shellfish, the decimation of oyster reefs by dredge fishing in early colonial days (1840s–1860s) and later removal of mussel reefs by the mussel and scallop dredging industry (1960s‒1990s). Review of current scientific information reveals no notable areas of continuous oyster reef in Victoria and we consider this habitat to be functionally extinct. While the large-scale removal and destructive fishing practices that drove the rapid declines have not occurred since the mid-1990s, a natural recovery has not occurred. Recovery has likely been hampered historically by a host of factors, including water quality and sedimentation, lack of shell substrate for settlement, chemical pollution impacts, disease of native flat oysters (Bonamia), and more recently introduced species that compete with or prey on shellfish. However, research in the United States has demonstrated that, by strategic selection of appropriate sites and provision of suitable settlement substrates, outplanting of aquaculture-reared oysters and mussels can re-establish shellfish reefs. While a long-term sustained and structured approach is required, there is potential to re-establish shellfish reefs as a functioning ecological community in Victoria’s coastal environment.
Circadian clock regulation of mRNA translation through eukaryotic elongation factor eEF-2
Authors: Caster Stephen Z. , Castillo Kathrina , Sachs Matthew S. , Bell-Pedersen Deborah
Published: August 2016

Significance

The circadian clock controls daily rhythms in genes involved in a wide range of biological processes, including signal transduction, cell division, metabolism, and behavior. The primary focus on understanding clock control of gene expression has been at the level of transcription. However, in many systems, there are examples of proteins that accumulate rhythmically from transcripts that are constitutively expressed. These data suggested that the clock regulates translation, but the underlying mechanisms were largely unknown. We show that the clock in
Neurospora crassa
controls the activity of translation elongation factor-2 (eEF-2) and that regulation of translation elongation leads to rhythmic translation in vitro and in vivo. These studies uncover a mechanism for controlling rhythmic protein accumulation.
Disruption of promoter memory by synthesis of a long noncoding RNA
Authors: Yu Yaxin , Yarrington Robert M. , Chuong Edward B. , Elde Nels C. , Stillman David J.
Published: August 2016

Significance

The yeast
HO
gene is under complex regulation during the cell cycle. Swi5 binds to the promoter during the M phase to promote later activation but is absent when the gene is activated in late G1. Thus cells “remember” the effects of Swi5 at the promoter, and this is especially important during prolonged G1 arrest due to nutrient deprivation. Promoter “memory” consists of SBF factor and Mediator bound at the promoter. However, this promoter memory is lost in cells arrested in G1 by pheromone exposure. We show that this memory loss occurs by transcription through the promoter, displacing bound SBF, thereby erasing the memory. Thus, factors at a promoter can constitute memory of prior decisions, and displacement by transcription can remove this memory.
Bioelectronic neural pixel: Chemical stimulation and electrical sensing at the same site
Authors: Jonsson Amanda , Inal Sahika , Uguz Ilke , Williamson Adam J. , Kergoat Loïg , Rivnay Jonathan , Khodagholy Dion , Berggren Magnus , Bernard Christophe , Malliaras George G. , Simon Daniel T.
Published: August 2016

Significance

Electronically and ionically conducting polymers provide a unique means to translate electronic addressing signals into chemically specific and spatiotemporally resolved delivery, without fluid flow. These materials have also been shown to provide high-fidelity electrophysiological recordings. Here, we demonstrate the combination of these qualities of organic electronics in multiple 20 × 20 µm delivery/sensing electrodes. The system is used to measure epileptic activity in a brain slice model, and to deliver inhibitory neurotransmitters to the same sites as the recordings. These results show that a single-cell-scale electrode has the ability to both record and chemically stimulate, demonstrating the local effects of therapeutic treatment, and opening a range of opportunities in basic neuroscience as well as medical technology development.
Origin of the characteristic X-ray spectral variations of IRAS 13224−3809
Authors: Yamasaki Hiroki , Mizumoto Misaki , Ebisawa Ken , Sameshima Hiroaki
Published: August 2016

The narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxy (NLS1) IRAS 13224−3809 is known to exhibit significant X-ray spectral variation, a sharp spectral drop at ∼7 keV, strong soft excess emission, and a hint of an iron L-edge feature, which is very similar to the NLS1 1H 0707−495. We have proposed the “Variable Double Partial Covering (VDPC) model” to explain the energy spectra and spectral variability of 1H 0707−495 (Mizumoto et al. 2014, PASJ, 66, 122). In this model, the observed flux/spectral variations below 10 keV within ∼ a day are primarily caused by change of the partial covering fraction of patchy clouds composed by double absorption layers in the line of sight. In this paper, we apply the VDPC model to IRAS 13224−3809. Consequently, we have found that the VDPC model can explain the observed spectral variations of IRAS 13224−3809 in the 0.5–10 keV band. In particular, we can explain the observed root mean square (RMS) spectra (energy dependence of the fractional flux variation) in the entire 0.5–10 keV band. In addition to the well-known significant drop in the iron K-band, we have found intriguing iron L-peaks in the RMS spectra when the iron L-edge is particularly deep. This feature, which is also found in 1H 0707−495, is naturally explained with the VDPC model, such that the RMS variations increase at the energies where optical depths of the partial absorbers are large. The absorbers have a larger optical depth at the iron L-edge than in the adjacent energy bands, and thus a characteristic iron L-peak appears. On the other hand, just below the iron K-edge, the optical depth is the lowest and the RMS spectrum has a broad dip.
Soybean SDS in South Africa is Caused by Fusarium brasiliense and a Novel Undescribed Fusarium sp.
Authors: Tewoldemedhin Yared T. , Lamprecht Sandra C. , Vaughan Martha M. , Doehring Gail , O’Donnell Kerry
Published: August 2016

Soybean sudden death syndrome (SDS) was detected in South Africa for the first time during pathogen surveys conducted in 2013 to 2014. The primary objective of this study was to characterize the 16 slow-growing Fusarium strains that were isolated from the roots of symptomatic plants. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of a portion of translation elongation factor 1-α (TEF1) and the nuclear ribosomal intergenic spacer region (IGS rDNA) indicated that the etiological agents were Fusarium brasiliense and a novel, undescribed Fusarium sp. This is the first report of F. brasiliense outside of Brazil and Argentina and the novel Fusarium sp. causing soybean SDS. Koch’s postulates were completed for both fusaria on seven soybean cultivars that are commercially available in South Africa. Results of the pathogenicity experiment revealed that the strains of F. brasiliense and Fusarium sp. differed in aggressiveness to soybean, as reflected in differences in foliar symptoms, root rot, and reduction in shoot length. Cell-free culture filtrates of the two soybean SDS pathogens from South Africa and two positive control strains of F. virguliforme from the United States induced typical SDS symptoms on susceptible soybean cultivars in a whole-seedling assay, indicating that they contained phytotoxins.
Effectiveness of Periosteal Stimulation Therapy and Home Exercise Program in the Rehabilitation of Patients With Advanced Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Elbadawy Mohja A.
Published: August 2016

Background:

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is the most common form of joint disease. It is one of the major causes of impaired function that reduces quality of life in older people worldwide. Periosteal Stimulation Therapy (PST) with boosters in combination with home exercises may be a suitable treatment option for such patients.

Objectives:

To examine the effectiveness of PST with boosters in addition to a home-based exercise program as compared with Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) combined with the same home-based exercise program in the management of chronic pain and functional impairments associated with advanced knee OA.

Design:

The study was a randomized controlled trial.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty patients with Kellgren-Lawrence grade 3 or 4 knee OA were randomized to receive PST or TENS once a week for 10 weeks, followed by boosters for 6 months in addition to a home exercise program. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales were assessed at baseline, after the last PST session, and 6 months later.

Results:

Pain VAS and KOOS subscales were improved in both PST and TENS groups at 10 weeks and 6 months after intervention, with a statistically significant difference between the groups at both follow-up periods. Reduced pain VAS and increased KOOS subscales in the PST group were statistically significantly different from the TENS group during both follow-up periods.

Conclusion:

PST with boosters combined with a home exercise program was shown to be beneficial for improving subjective knee pain and functional performance of older patients with advanced knee OA.
Effect of Epidural Dexmedetomidine Combined With Ropivacaine in Labor Analgesia
Authors: Zhao Yang , Xin Yan , Liu Yongbo , Yi Xuanlong , Liu Yingzhi
Published: August 2016

Background:

The purpose of our study is to evaluate the effect of adding dexmedetomidine to epidural ropivacaine in patients undergoing labor epidural analgesia.

Methods:

Eighty healthy women were randomly assigned to 2 groups: control group (R; n=40) received epidural 0.125% ropivacaine for labor analgesia, whereas the study group (D; n=40) received epidural 0.125% ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine in addition. The blood pressure, heart rate, and the severity of pain of the parturient was assessed, the duration of the first stage and the second stage of labor time, the rate of instrumental delivery and the rate of cesarean section were recorded. The side effects (nausea and vomiting), intensity of maternal sedation, and neonatal Apgar scores were also recorded.

Results:

The visual analog scales, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rates of D group were significant lower than that of R group at most time intervals after epidural analgesia. The duration of the first and second stage of labor, the rate of instrumental delivery and cesarean section, neonatal 1- and 5-minute Apgar scores, umbilical artery pH, maternal motor blockade scores, intensity of maternal sedation, and the incidence of maternal complications did not show significant difference between 2 groups.

Conclusions:

Low concentration of epidural ropivacaine (0.125%) combined with dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg/kg) reduces the feeling of pain, and does not show the problems of motor blockage, hemodynamic instability, extension of production process, and complications such as nausea and vomiting. Our study was registered with Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-IOR-15007263).
Use of Composite Osteotemporoparietal Fascia Flap for Midface Reconstruction After En Bloc Resection of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Involving the Zygomaticomaxillary Complex
Authors: Lee Daniel D. , Kenning Tyler , Pinheiro-Neto Carlos D.
Published: August 2016

The osteotemporoparietal fascia flap (OTPFF) has been used for bony defects, especially on the maxilla and orbital floor. However, there are limited reports about the reconstruction of the zygoma. We report the use of composite OTPFF for reconstruction of zygomaticomaxillary complex. The patient had undergone zygomaticomaxillary complex reconstruction with composite OTPFF because of the resection of recurrent postradiation tumor. Extratemporoparietal fascia was harvested and rotated to cover the medullary surface of the bone flap. Flap was successfully transferred with complete bone integration. There were no surgical complications and excellent cosmetic result. The patient is free of disease 12 months post surgery. The OTPFF seems to be a good option in zygomatic reconstruction, even in previously irradiated fields. Utilization of extratemporoparietal fascia to cover the medullary surface of the bone flap has potential to be an advantageous technique to minimize bone exposure and improve flap integration.
Effect of Reflexology to Depressive Symptoms in Women With Overactive Bladder
Authors: Aydin Yasemin , Aslan Ergul , Yalcin Onay
Published: August 2016

This study is to determine the effect of foot reflexology on the level of depression in women with OAB. Study findings included in the study showed foot reflexology as a part of OAB treatment relieved urinary and depressive symptoms and had a positive effect on quality of life.
Acquired Corneal Neuropathy and Photoallodynia Associated With Malposition of an Ex-PRESS Shunt
Authors: Birnbaum Faith A. , Hamrah Pedram , Jacobs Deborah S. , Song Brian J.
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

Corneal neuropathy is a recently described disease process that is not well understood and is likely underdiagnosed as a result. This is the first reported case of an acquired corneal neuropathy associated with malposition of an Ex-PRESS shunt.

Methods:

A single case report.

Results:

We report the case of a 50-year-old man with a history of multiple procedures for glaucoma who subsequently developed photoallodynia and corneal neuropathy in association with malposition of an Ex-PRESS shunt in the peripheral cornea. Laser confocal microscopy (HRT3/RCM) of the cornea showed the presence of neuromas, decreased nerve density, and a significant increase of dendritiform immune cells consistent with our diagnosis. Initial treatment with steroid pulse therapy did not result in decreased inflammation or symptomatic improvement leading to surgical explantation of the shunt. One month after surgery, there was noticeable improvement in the patient’s pain and photoallodynia (approximately 40%) as well as the abnormalities seen on confocal microscopy.

Conclusions:

We hypothesize that poor Ex-PRESS shunt positioning can act as a nidus for corneal inflammation, resulting in corneal neuropathy and lowering of the nociception threshold.
Intraocular Pressure Outcomes Following Transscleral Diode Cyclophotocoagulation Using Long and Short Duration Burns
Authors: Alzuhairy Sultan , Albahlal Abdullah , Aljadaan Ibrahim , Owaidhah Ohoud , Al Shahwan Sami , Craven Earl Randy , Mousa Ahmed , Edward Deepak P.
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation using short duration (SD) versus longer duration (LD) treatment.

Patients and Methods:

Data were collected retrospectively on patients with glaucoma who underwent cyclophotocoagulation with LD (4000 ms) treatment with variable power ≤1000 mW versus SD using 1500 ms with variable power ≤2000 mW. The outcome measures included: intraocular pressure (IOP) at 12 months, decrease in number of antiglaucoma medications, complications and visual acuity (VA) at the final follow-up visit.

Results:

There were 71 patients and 70 patients in the SD and LD groups, respectively. The mean IOP±SD pretreatment baseline was 33±10 versus 36±10 mm Hg for SD and LD groups, respectively (P>0.05). At 1 year postoperatively, the IOP decreased significantly in both groups (16.7 vs. 17.4 mm Hg for SD and LD, respectively; P<0.0001). This decrease in IOP was comparable between groups (P=0.5). The average number of IOP lowering medications were 2.5 and 2.9 at baseline in the SD and LD groups, respectively, and decreased to 1.3 in both groups (P=0.83). The mean LogMAR VA decreased significantly from 1.87 at baseline to 1.96 at 1 year in the SD group (P=0.276), and 2.03 to 2.3 (P≤0.001) in the LD group, this change was comparable (0.19; P=0.075) between the 2 groups. Complications were also comparable.

Conclusions:

Both LD and SD burns during cyclophotocoagulation effectively lowered IOP at 1 year. Neither treatment resulted in a greater reduction of IOP. LD treatment appeared to result in a decrease in VA and greater postoperative inflammation.
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Post-concussion Syndrome
Authors: Bramley Harry , Hong Justin , Zacko Christopher , Royer Christopher , Silvis Matthew
Published: August 2016

Sport-related concussion typically resolves within a few weeks of the injury; however, persistent symptoms have been reported to occur in 10% to 15% of concussions. These ongoing symptoms can cause significant disability and be frustrating for the patient and family. In addition, factors other than brain injury can cause complications for these patients, such as adjustment disorder or exacerbation of preexisting conditions such as depression or migraine. Individuals with prolonged symptoms of concussion may be classified as having post-concussion syndrome. A careful and thoughtful evaluation is important, as the clinician must determine whether these prolonged symptoms reflect brain injury pathophysiology versus another process. Although there have been numerous studies on the acute management of concussion, much less is available on the treatment of persistent disease. This review will provide an evaluation approach for the patient with prolonged concussion symptoms and review recent literature on treatment strategies.
Evolution of Sports-related Headgear
Authors: Salvaterra George
Published: August 2016

The major focus of this review is to establish concussion in sport as a silent epidemic in our society that is not an accident. Brain injury has a definitive pattern and distinct nonrandom predictable characteristic. The development of successful head protection requires a scientific database approach to the mechanics of headgear. It is the responsibility of the health care clinician to help with the maintenance of protective standards for headgear and support rule changes to decrease the morbidity and mortality of athletes.
Short article: Etiologic profile and endoscopic findings in immunocompromised children and adolescents with gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Jarasvaraparn Chaowapong , Tanpowpong Pornthep , Lertudomphonwanit Chatmanee , Treepongkaruna Suporn
Published: August 2016

Background

Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is one of the potential causes of increased morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients, but data on characteristics of GIB in immunocompromised children are sparse.

Objectives

This study aimed to identify the etiology, endoscopic, and histologic findings of GIB in immunocompromised children.

Design

This was a retrospective descriptive study.

Patients

We identified 33 patients (aged<20 years) and 45 GIB episodes related to GIB between January 2007 and April 2015 from a tertiary care and teaching hospital.

Results

The mean age at endoscopy was 10.7±4.6 years. Most common indications for endoscopy were melena in upper GIB and hematochezia in lower GIB. The median delay of duration between GIB presentation to endoscopy was 3 days. All except one child had at least one endoscopic abnormality. The most common cause of upper GIB was cytomegalovirus (CMV)-related gastrointestinal disease (35%), followed by esophageal varices (26%), and the most common cause of lower GIB was CMV-related gastrointestinal disease (55%). Fourteen percent of patients died during upper GIB episodes and 15% died during lower GIB episodes.

Conclusion

Among immunocompromised individuals aged younger than 20 years presenting with GIB, CMV-related gastrointestinal disease is the most prevalent in our study population. However, the etiology of immunocompromised state needs to be taken into consideration when evaluating these children presenting with GIB.
Review of perforator flaps in head and neck cancer surgery
Authors: Cho Andrew , Hall Francis T.
Published: August 2016

Purpose of review

Perforator flaps are increasingly being used to reconstruct head and neck defects. They offer several advantages over nonperforator-based flaps with lower donor site morbidity and a versatile range of reconstructive options. The anterolateral thigh flap is well established in the head and neck and is a good example of a reliable perforator free flap. With the increasing use of both free and regional perforator-based flaps, it is timely to review their anatomy, clinical applications, and role in head and neck reconstruction. We also discuss increasingly popular perforator flaps such as the submental flap for the head and neck.

Recent findings

The anterolateral thigh flap is now commonly used to reconstruct a wide variety of head and neck defects. The submental flap fills a niche role for reconstruction of intraoral defects.

Perforator flaps are now mainstream reconstructive options in the head and neck surgeon's armamentarium.