bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central catalytic domain of BRAP (RNF52) recognizes the types of ubiquitin chains and utilizes oligo-ubiquitin for ubiquitylation
Authors: Shoji Shisako , Hanada Kazuharu , Ohsawa Noboru , Shirouzu Mikako
Published: August 2017

Really interesting new gene (RING)-finger protein 52 (RNF52), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, is found in eukaryotes from yeast to humans. Human RNF52 is known as breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1)-associated protein 2 (BRAP or BRAP2). The central catalytic domain of BRAP comprises four subdomains: nucleotide-binding α/β plait (NBP), really interesting new gene (RING) zinc finger, ubiquitin-specific protease (UBP)-like zinc finger (ZfUBP), and coiled-coil (CC). This domain architecture is conserved in RNF52 orthologs; however, the domain's function in the ubiquitin system has not been delineated. In the present study, we discovered that the RNF52 domain, comprising NBP–RING–ZfUBP–CC, binds to ubiquitin chains (oligo-ubiquitin) but not to the ubiquitin monomers, and can utilize various ubiquitin chains for ubiquitylation and auto-ubiquitylation. The RNF52 domain preferentially bound to M1- and K63-linked di-ubiquitin chains, weakly to K27-linked chains, but not to K6-, K11-, or K48-linked chains. The binding preferences of the RNF52 domain for ubiquitin-linkage types corresponded to ubiquitin usage in the ubiquitylation reaction, except for K11-, K29-, and K33-linked chains. Additionally, the RNF52 domain directly ligated the intact M1-linked, tri-, and tetra-ubiquitin chains and recognized the structural alterations caused by the phosphomimetic mutation of these ubiquitin chains. Full-length BRAP had nearly the same specificity for the ubiquitin-chain types as the RNF52 domain alone. Mass spectrometry analysis of oligomeric ubiquitylation products, mediated by the RNF52 domain, revealed that the ubiquitin-linkage types and auto-ubiquitylation sites depend on the length of ubiquitin chains. Here, we propose a model for the oligomeric ubiquitylation process, controlled by the RNF52 domain, which is not a sequential assembly process involving monomers.
Quantifying attention shifts in augmented reality image‐guided neurosurgery
Authors: Léger Étienne , Drouin Simon , Collins D. Louis , Popa Tiberiu , Kersten‐Oertel Marta
Published: August 2017

Image‐guided surgery (IGS) has allowed for more minimally invasive procedures, leading to better patient outcomes, reduced risk of infection, less pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recoveries. One drawback that has emerged with IGS is that the surgeon must shift their attention from the patient to the monitor for guidance. Yet both cognitive and motor tasks are negatively affected with attention shifts. Augmented reality (AR), which merges the realworld surgical scene with preoperative virtual patient images and plans, has been proposed as a solution to this drawback. In this work, we studied the impact of two different types of AR IGS set‐ups (mobile AR and desktop AR) and traditional navigation on attention shifts for the specific task of craniotomy planning. We found a significant difference in terms of the time taken to perform the task and attention shifts between traditional navigation, but no significant difference between the different AR set‐ups. With mobile AR, however, users felt that the system was easier to use and that their performance was better. These results suggest that regardless of where the AR visualisation is shown to the surgeon, AR may reduce attention shifts, leading to more streamlined and focused procedures.
Automatic age estimation from facial profile view
Authors: Bukar Ali Maina , Ugail Hassan
Published: August 2017

In recent years, automatic facial age estimation has gained popularity due to its numerous applications. Much work has been done on frontal images and lately, minimal estimation errors have been achieved on most of the benchmark databases. However, in reality, images obtained in unconstrained environments are not always frontal. For instance, when conducting a demographic study or crowd analysis, one may get profile images of the face. To the best of our knowledge, no attempt has been made to estimate ages from the side‐view of face images. Here the authors exploit this by using a pretrained deep residual neural network to extract features, and then utilise a sparse partial least‐squares regression approach to estimate ages. Despite having less information as compared with frontal images, the results show that the extracted deep features achieve a promising performance.
Zwillingsschwangerschaften – Bedeutung und Diagnostik der
Chorionizität
Authors: Engels Alexander , Kainer Franz
Published: August 2017

Eine von 85 Schwangerschaften in Deutschland ist eine Mehrlingsschwangerschaft.
Für die klinische Beurteilung einer Zwillingsschwangerschaft ist die
Chorionizität von besonderer Bedeutung. Sie hat einen maßgeblichen Einfluss auf
die möglichen klinischen Komplikationen [1].
Zwillinge – Praktische Tipps für die Schwangeren- und
Wochenbettbetreuung
Authors: von Haugwitz Dorothee
Published: August 2017

In Deutschland kommen jährlich etwa 11 000 Zwillingspärchen auf die Welt, mit
leicht steigender Tendenz, die in der Schwangerschaft und im Wochenbett versorgt
sein wollen. Die Betreuung erfordert einen deutlich größeren Zeitaufwand und es
gibt erheblich mehr Fragen zu medizinischen Themen und zur Bewältigung des
Alltags mit zwei Neugeborenen zu klären.
Copper-Catalyzed C–S Bond Formation via the Cleavage of C–O Bonds in the Presence of S8 as the Sulfur Source
Authors: Rostami Amin , Ghaderi Arash , Rostami Abed , Gholinejad Mohammad , Gheisarzadeh Sajedeh
Published: August 2017

Useful and applicable methods for one-pot and odorless synthesis of unsymmetrical and symmetrical diaryl sulfides via C–O bond activation are presented. First, a new efficient procedure for the synthesis of unsymmetrical sulfides using the cross-coupling reaction of phenolic esters such as acetates, tosylates, and triflates and with arylboronic acid or triphenyltin chloride as the coupling partners is reported. Depending on the reaction, S8/KF or S8/NaOt-Bu system is found to be an effective source of sulfur in the presence of copper salts and in poly(ethylene glycol) as a green solvent. Then, the synthesis of symmetrical diaryl sulfides from phenolic compounds by using S8 as the sulfur source and NaOt-Bu in anhydrous DMF at 120 °C under N2 is described. By these protocols, the synthesis of a variety of unsymmetrical and symmetrical sulfides become easier than the available protocols in which thiols and aryl halides are directly used for the preparation of the sulfides.
Nickel-Catalyzed Hydroalkenylation of Alkynes through C–F Bond Activation: Synthesis of 2-Fluoro-1,3-dienes
Authors: Ichikawa Junji , Watabe Yota , Kanazawa Kohei , Fujita Takeshi
Published: August 2017

2-Fluoro-1,3-dienes were synthesized through nickel-catalyzed coupling reactions between β,β-difluorostyrenes and alkynes in the presence of ZrF4 as co-catalyst and a hydride source derived from triethylborane and lithium isopropoxide. Mechanistic studies revealed that the carbon–fluorine bond was cleaved by β-fluorine elimination from intermediary nickelacyclopentenes generated through oxidative cyclization of the two substrates.
Catalyst-Free Oxidative [3+2] Cycloaddition of Phenols and Styrenes in the Presence of a 2,3-Dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone/1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-ol System
Authors: Wang Yunxia , Cui Na , Zhao Yu
Published: August 2017

A catalyst-free oxidative [3+2] cycloaddition of phenols and styrenes was developed with 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone as the oxidant and 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-ol as the solvent at room temperature. With this method, a broad range of dihydrobenzofurans were efficiently and quickly obtained from readily available phenols and styrenes.
Fusión radiocubital en paciente con osteocondromatosis múltiple hereditaria
Authors: Aedo-Martín Daniel , Alvarez Sergio , Vara-Patudo Isabel , Alonso-Hernández Javier
Published: August 2017

Las deformidades del antebrazo y el acortamiento del cúbito ocurren en un 30 a 70% de los pacientes con osteocondromatosis múltiple hereditaria (OMH), produciendo deformidades angulares y pérdida de la movilidad. Los tratamientos en los pacientes pediátricos con OMH que afecta al antebrazo varían desde la simple observación a la resección de la exostosis asociada o no a osteotomías y/o alargamientos. En los pacientes sintomáticos con deformidades severas, afectación de la articulación radiocubital proximal o distal y pérdida de la prono-supinación, la fusión radiocubital es una alternativa de tratamiento con resultados satisfactorios. Se presenta un paciente con osteocondromatosis múltiple hereditaria y una deformidad severa del antebrazo en la que se realizó una fusión radiocubital distal, obteniéndose unos resultados clínicos y radiológicos excelentes. La reconstrucción en un antebrazo de un solo hueso permite restaurar el eje del antebrazo, mantiene el potencial de crecimiento en el radio distal y proporciona un codo estable mediante una sola cirugía.
Anatomical Study of the First Dorsal Interosseous Tendon for its Use as a Plasty of the Radial Collateral Ligament of the Index Metacarpophalangeal Joint
Authors: Ferreres Angel , Del Valle Montse , Rodríguez Alfonso
Published: August 2017

Purpose The authors present an anatomical study to justify the use of the distal portion of the tendon of the first dorsal interosseous muscle (FDIM) for the repair of the chronic rupture of the radial collateral ligament (RCL) of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the index finger.

Methods Ten hands of cryopreserved specimens were used and thawed at room temperature for dissection with optical magnification. Five were hands of women, and their ages ranged from 46–96 years (mean: 72.8), and 8 corresponded to the right hand.

Results The length of the tendon of the FDIM ranged from 20 to 40 mm (mean: 25 mm). The length of the RCL ranged from 14 to 24 mm (mean: 18.2 mm). The difference between both structures of the same specimen averaged 6.8 mm (2–16 mm). Therefore, the dorsal portion of the tendon of the FIDM is always at least 2 mm longer than the length of the RCL.

Conclusions In conclusion, this is a simple technique that allows the surgeon to perform a plasty of the RCL without sacrificing another tendon in the absence of the palmaris longus, which is more commonly used for this purpose. The maintenance of its distal insertion may also help in the revascularization of the repaired area.
Doble fijación para la rotura de bíceps distal: Descripción de la técnica y evaluación de resultados
Authors: Capomassi Miguel , Vélez Manuel , Gardenal R
Published: August 2017

Introducción La ruptura del bíceps distal es una lesión infrecuente producida por la aplicación de una carga excéntrica sobre el codo flexionado. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar nuestros resultados para la reinserción del bíceps distal mediante la técnica de doble fijación con botón de anclaje cortical y tornillo interferencial de biotenodesis a través de una incisión anterior única, con una casuística mayor a la presentada con anterioridad.

Material y Método Entre agosto de 2008 y agosto de 2015, se intervino 24 casos de rotura del bíceps distal tratados quirúrgicamente por vía anterior limitada. Los 22 últimos casos consecutivos fueron tratados con doble fijación utilizando botón extracortical y tornillo de biotenodesis, y son el grupo de estudio de este artículo. Todos eran hombres, con una mediana de edad de 39,5 años (rango 22–59). Los pacientes fueron evaluados con el Cuestionario DASH y la valoración Subjetiva/Objetiva de Andrews y Carson, la fuerza de flexión y supinación se controló con la escala del British Medical Research Council modificada por Mackinnon y Dellon (M0-M5).

Resultados El valor promedio del cuestionario DASH fue de 1,7 (0 - 31,6) y el de Andrews y Carson, de 197,5 (135–200), con 20 resultados excelentes, 1 bueno y 1 regular. Todos consiguieron una fuerza M5 para la flexión y la supinación de antebrazo. El tiempo promedio de seguimiento fue de 17,5 meses (10–38). En tres pacientes se registraron complicaciones, todos con una recuperación total.

Conclusión La técnica descrita demostró ser segura y eficaz, con resultados satisfactorios y baja tasa de complicaciones.

Nivel de Evidencia: IV. Serie de Casos.
Dominancia Vascular en la Mano: Estudio Dinámico de Flujos
Authors: Torres Fuentes Carlos , Sastre Zuluaga Ana
Published: August 2017

Introducción Mediante estudios anatómicos estáticos, se ha establecido durante años, que la arteria cubital es dominante para la irrigación de la mano en un 80% de los casos. Sin embargo, estudios anatómico-radiológicos más recientes, sobre muestras poblacionales limitadas (n = 27), ponen en duda la dominancia arterial cubital única de la mano. Por otro lado, el comportamiento funcional adaptativo, tanto de la arteria radial como de la cubital, cuando la otra arteria es obstruida, todavía no ha sido estudiado. Los objetivos del presente trabajo son: (1) Determinar si existe una dominancia arterial en la mano y (2), estudiar las variaciones del flujo que experimentan tanto la arteria radial como la cubital de voluntarios sanos, cuando la otra arteria se obstruye durante la realización de la prueba de Allen.

Material y Método Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo transversal, sobre 200 manos de 100 voluntarios sanos. Se recogieron los datos de sexo y lateralidad. Se utilizó un ecógrafo doppler color para determinar, antes y durante la realización de un test de Allen, el diámetro transversal, el área de sección, la tasa y la velocidad de flujo, tanto de la arteria radial como de la arteria cubital. Los datos recogidos se compararon con una prueba de la suma de rangos de Wilcoxon y se realizó un análisis de correlación mediante la prueba P de Pearson entre las diferentes variables.

Resultados No se observaron diferencias significativas entre los diferentes parámetros estudiados comparándolos según la lateralidad y el género de los voluntarios evaluados. Se evidenció una diferencia estadísticamente significativa para la tasa de flujo, área de sección y diámetro transversal entre la arteria radial y cubital, tanto en reposo como durante la prueba de Allen, siendo mayor los parámetros para la arteria radial. Durante la realización de la prueba de Allen, se obtuvo una correlación positiva directa entre el incremento en el diámetro, tanto de la arteria radial como de la cubital, y de sus velocidades de flujo; se observó, un aumento en el área de sección y en la tasa de flujo de ambas al ocluir la otra.

Conclusiones Ha quedado evidenciado, por medio de este estudio dinámico de flujo, una dominancia de la arteria radial para la irrigación de la mano. También ha podido demostrarse que existen cambios adaptativos, anatómicos y funcionales, en la arteria cubital y radial, cuando hay ausencia de la otra.
Advanced MRI Techniques for Muscle Imaging
Authors: Leung Doris , Sneag Darryl , Grande Filippo , Carrino John , Kalia Vivek
Published: August 2017

Advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques can evaluate a wide array of muscle pathologies including acute or chronic muscle injury, musculotendinous response to injury, intramuscular collections and soft tissue masses, and others. In recent years, MRI has played a more important role in muscle disease diagnosis and monitoring. MRI provides excellent spatial and contrast resolution and helps direct optimal sites for muscle biopsy. Whole-body MRI now helps identify signature patterns of muscular involvement in large anatomical regions with relative ease. Quantitative MRI has advanced the evaluation and disease tracking of muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration in entities such as muscular dystrophies. Multivoxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) now allows a more thorough, complete evaluation of a muscle of interest without the inherent sampling bias of single-voxel MRS or biopsy. Diffusion MRI allows quantification of muscle inflammation and capillary perfusion as well as muscle fiber tracking.
Reconstruction of Hind and Mid-Foot Defects after Melanoma Resection Using the Reverse Sural Flap: A Case Series
Authors: Larrañaga Juan , Picco Pedro , Yanzon Alejandro , Figari Marcelo
Published: August 2017

Background Melanoma resection creates important soft tissues defects, which are difficult to manage when located on the weight-bearing heel and mid foot. There is little evidence on the use of the reverse-flow sural flap for this type of reconstruction.

Objective This study reports our case series on the reconstructive management of the hind and mid-foot defects after melanoma resection using the reverse sural artery flap.

Materials and Methods This is a retrospective study of four consecutive patients treated with resection of melanoma of the feet and reconstruction with reverse sural artery flap from 2006 to 2009.

Results The mean age of the patients was 54 years, three were females, and one was male. Three of the defects were located on the weight-bearing heel, the other on the mid-foot dorsum. The melanomas were fully resected with wide margins. Three patients were reconstructed primarily, whereas one patient was reconstructed 4 weeks after the resective surgery. This series revealed 100% flap survival and there was no partial necrosis. Major complications were not observed. The four patients completely recovered the function of the affected limb.

Conclusion The reverse sural flap is a viable option for the reconstruction of foot defects after melanoma resection.
Lokal ablative Therapie bei Lebertumoren
Authors: Fischbach Frank , Ricke Jens , Fischbach Katharina
Published: August 2017

In den letzten Jahren stehen bei Patienten mit Lebertumoren interdisziplinäre Therapieansätze mit Betonung minimalinvasiver Verfahren zur Reduktion der Tumorlast zunehmend im Fokus. Lokal ablative Verfahren zur Behandlung des HCC und von Lebermetastasen kolorektaler Tumoren sind bereits in Behandlungsempfehlungen und Leitlinien integriert. Der folgende Beitrag stellt die häufigsten Verfahren vor und beschreibt ihre Relevanz für den klinischen Alltag.
Dosis und Dosisreduktion in der Computertomografie
Authors: Lell Michael , Wucherer Michael , Kachelrieß Marc
Published: August 2017

Die CT wird in der diagnostischen Radiologie immer häufiger eingesetzt. Neue Untersuchungsindikationen, z. B. die Koronar-CTA, die CT-Kolonografie oder diverse CT-Perfusionsuntersuchungen, sind im klinischen Alltag angekommen. Dies erfordert die im Folgenden vorgestellten Verfahren, um die Strahlenexposition zu reduzieren, ohne die sehr kurze Untersuchungszeit bei hoher (isotroper) Auflösung zu beschneiden.
Diagnostik und Staging gynäkologischer Tumoren mittels MRT
Authors: Alt Céline , Kubik-Huch Rahel
Published: August 2017

Die MRT ist die Schnittbildgebung der Wahl, um gynäkologische Tumoren darzustellen. In welchen Fällen sie wie und mit welchen Sequenzen eingesetzt werden kann und was bei den einzelnen Entitäten zu berücksichtigen ist, wird im folgenden Beitrag dargestellt.
Erfahrungen und unterstützende Hinweise zur Anwendung von Nintedanib bei Patienten mit idiopathischer Lungenfibrose
Authors: Behr J. , Günther A. , Kreuter M. , Koschel D. , Prasse A. , Pfeifer M. , Costabel U.
Published: August 2017

Im Oktober 2016 fand in Frankfurt auf Einladung von Boehringer Ingelheim ein Treffen deutscher IPF-Experten mit der Zielsetzung statt, praxisrelevante Aspekte der Behandlung der idiopathischen Lungenfibrose (IPF) mit Nintedanib zu erörtern und unterstützende Hilfestellungen für den klinischen Behandlungsalltag zu formulieren. Die resultierenden Hinweise dieses Dokumentes beschränken sich auf praktische Fragen und Erfahrungen zur Anwendung von Nintedanib bei IPF. Die Wahl des Medikaments bei Vorliegen verschiedener Therapieoptionen wurde hier nicht diskutiert. Hierzu verweisen die teilnehmenden Experten auf die aktuellen Leitlinien zur Diagnose und Therapie der IPF.

Die Teilnehmer diskutierten anhand von 10 Themenbereichen ein umfassendes Spektrum klinischer Fragestellungen einer IPF-Behandlung mit Nintedanib. Hierzu zählten u. a. patientenbezogene Aspekte bei Therapiebeginn, die Behandlung antikoagulierter IPF-Patienten und der Umgang mit unerwünschten Arzneimittelwirkungen unter Nintedanib (z. B. gastrointestinale Nebenwirkungen, Leberenzymerhöhungen).

Weiterhin erörterten die Experten Therapiemaßnahmen unter fortschreitender Krankheitsprogression des IPF-Patienten, klinische Umstände, die einen Therapieabbruch mit Nintedanib rechtfertigen, sowie therapeutische Handlungsoptionen bei akuter Exazerbation oder schwerer Infektion. Abschließend diskutierten die Teilnehmer die Vorgehensweise vor/nach elektiven Eingriffen (z. B. Lungentransplantation) unter Therapie mit Nintedanib und die gegenwärtige Evidenz für den Einsatz einer antifibrotischen Kombinationstherapie bei IPF-Patienten.

In die zu jedem Themenbereich formulierten Hinweise einer IPF-Therapie mit Nintedanib ist die publizierte Evidenz aus klinischen Studien eingeflossen. Bei unzureichender oder fehlender Datenlage haben die Experten auf Grundlage eigener klinischer Erfahrungen und Einschätzungen Empfehlungen formuliert.
Aktuelle Indikationen zur operativen Therapie beim kleinzelligen Lungenkarzinom
Authors: Jungraithmayr Wolfgang
Published: August 2017

Das kleinzellige Bronchialkarzinom ist durch ein aggressives und schnelles Wachstum mit Tendenz zur frühen Metastasierung charakterisiert und weist eine der ungünstigsten Prognosen unter allen Malignomen auf. Aufgrund seiner hohen Sensitivität für Strahlen- und Chemotherapie stellt die Radiochemotherapie immer noch den Hauptpfeiler der Therapie dar. Allerdings haben in den letzten Jahren eine Reihe von retrospektiven Arbeiten sowie größere Fallserien gezeigt, dass eine Operation im multimodalen Konzept zu einem relevanten Überlebensvorteil sowie einer verbesserten lokalen Tumorkontrolle führen kann. Empfohlen werden kann eine Operation bei Manifestation des kleinzelligen Karzinoms in Form eines singulären peripheren Herdes, bei einem frühen Tumorstadium (T1 – 2, N0, M0), bei Vorliegen von kombiniert-histologischen Tumortypen, aber auch in ausgewählten Fällen bei einer Persistenz des kleinzelligen Karzinoms nach Chemotherapieresistenz. Aufgrund dessen, dass wir heute über eine Immuntherapie mittels Checkpoint-Inhibitoren nun auch bei dem kleinzelligen Karzinom verfügen, sollte auch unter diesem Aspekt eine Resektion erwogen werden, da die Expression bestimmter Checkpoint-Rezeptoren einen relevanten Einfluss auf Therapie und Prognose besitzt. Um allerdings die genannten Kriterien zugunsten einer Operation verbindlich und zuverlässig formulieren zu können, bedarf es randomisierter, kontrollierter Studien.
Myocardial Glucose Clearance by Aspalathin Treatment in Young, Mature, and Obese Insulin-Resistant Rats
Authors: Smit Sybrand , Johnson Rabia , Van Vuuren Mignon , Huisamen Barbara
Published: August 2017

Rooibos, an indigenous South African plant ingested as herbal tea, is well known for its antioxidant effects. This in vitro study investigated aspalathin (C21H24O11), a dihydrochalcone unique to rooibos, for hypoglycemic effects in the context of age- and obesity-induced insulin resistance and the mechanisms involved. Male Wistar rats were allocated into three groups: 16 – 30 weeks feeding with either standard rat chow or a high-caloric diet, or 6 – 10 weeks feeding with standard rat chow. Ventricular cardiomyocytes were isolated by collagenase perfusion digestion, and glucose uptake was determined by 2-[3H]-deoxyglucose accumulation. Viability was tested by trypan blue exclusion or propidium iodide staining. The high-caloric diet significantly increased body weight gain (508.5 ± 50.0 vs. 417.3 ± 40.0 g), visceral adiposity (42.30 ± 10.1 vs. 21.75 ± 7.0 g), and fasting blood glucose (5.7 ± 0.4 vs. 4.7 ± 0.1 mM). Aspalathin (10 µM for 90 min) induced 2-[3H]-deoxyglucose uptake in young cardiomyocytes (37.2 ± 13.9 vs. 25.7 ± 2.5 pmol 2-[3H]-deoxyglucose/mg protein) and enhanced insulin-mediated 2-[3H]-deoxyglucose uptake in control cells (32.4 ± 6.4 vs. 23.5 ± 10.0 pmol 2-[3H]-deoxyglucose/mg protein), but failed to induce 2-[3H]-deoxyglucose uptake in high-caloric diet cells. Aspalathin induced glucose uptake in insulin-sensitive cardiomyocytes from young and aged rats, but not in high-caloric diet animals and enhanced the actions of insulin through a PI3K-dependent mechanism, resulting in an additive response.
Broadband acoustic energy confinement in hierarchical sonic crystals composed of rotated square inclusions
Authors: Shakouri Amir , Xu Feifei , Fan Zheng
Published: August 2017

The propagation of acoustic waves in hierarchical sonic crystals is studied computationally and experimentally. These sonic crystals are composed of a hierarchical order of square inclusions rotated 45° with respect to the square lattice structure. It is shown that these hierarchical sonic crystals are capable of confining acoustic energy over a broad frequency range and at multiple lattice points inside the sonic crystal based on Bragg's scattering effect. Fused deposition modeling additive manufacturing is applied to prepare a finite-sized sample of the hierarchical sonic crystal. Acoustic measurements are conducted on the hierarchical sonic crystal sample in a direct and closely plane-wave field inside an anechoic room. The experimental measurements are in good agreement with the band structure calculated using the finite element method. Potential applications of the hierarchical sonic crystals for acoustic energy harvesting and noise measurements are discussed.
Polarization dependence of microwave-induced magnetoconductivity oscillations in a two-dimensional electron gas on liquid helium
Authors: Monarkha Yu. P.
Published: August 2017

The dependence of radiation-induced dc magnetoconductivity oscillations on the microwave polarization is theoretically studied for a two-dimensional system of strongly interacting electrons formed on the surface of liquid helium. Two different theoretical mechanisms of magnetooscillations (the displacement and inelastic models) are investigated. We found that both models are similarly sensitive to a change of circular polarization, but they respond differently to a change of linear polarization. Theoretical results are compared with the recent observation of a photoconductivity response at cyclotron-resonance harmonics.
The effect of depairing on the current-phase relation in SIS junctions in the presence of nonmagnetic impurities of arbitrary concentration
Authors: Pastukh O. Yu. , Shutovskii A. M. , Sakhnyuk V. E.
Published: August 2017

The equilibrium current states in superconducting junctions of the superconductor-insulator-superconductor (SIS) type were studied for arbitrary transparency of the dielectric layer and in the presence of nonmagnetic impurities of arbitrary concentration. As the study was carried out at temperatures close to critical, the Ginzburg–Landau theory was applied. The calculations were performed taking into account depairing effects, the presence of which in the system is reflected by the superfluid velocity term in the Ginzburg–Landau equation. In addition to the numerical results presented in the work, a new analytical equation for the dependence of the current on the phase difference was obtained for arbitrary electron transmittance and different values of the electron mean free path. It was shown that the analytical results are in good agreement with the numerical calculations.
Optimizing electroosmotic pumping rates in a rectangular channel with vertical gratings
Authors: Lai Anison K. R. , Chang Chien-Cheng , Wang Chang-Yi
Published: August 2017

The Helmholtz-Smoluchowski (H-S) velocity is known to be an accurate and useful formula for estimating the electro-osmotic (EO) flow rates in a simple micro-channel with a thin electric-double layer. However, in case the channel cross section is not so simple, the usefulness of H-S velocity could be sharply limited. A case of fundamental interest representing this situation is a rectangular channel (comprising parallel plates) with built-in vertical gratings, in which the surfaces inside the channel may develop different normalized zeta potentials α (on the gratings) and β (on the side walls). In this study, analytical solutions are pursued under the Debye-Hückel approximation to obtain EO pumping rates in a rectangular channel with vertical gratings. In particular, we identify the conditions under which the H-S formula can be properly applied and investigate how the EO flow rates may deviate from those predicted by the H-S velocity with varying physical parameters. Moreover, a diagram of the optimal EO pumping rates on the α-β plane is introduced that accounts for the general features of the analysis, which is consistent with a mathematical model and may serve as a convenient guide for engineering design and applications.
High resolution study of the ν2 and ν5 rovibrational fundamental bands of thionyl chloride: Interplay of an evolutionary algorithm and a line-by-line analysis
Authors: Roucou Anthony , Dhont Guillaume , Cuisset Arnaud , Martin-Drumel Marie-Aline , Thorwirth Sven , Fontanari Daniele , Meerts W. Leo
Published: August 2017

The ν2 and ν5 fundamental bands of thionyl chloride (SOCl2) were measured in the 420 cm−1–550 cm−1 region using the FT-far-IR spectrometer exploiting synchrotron radiation on the AILES beamline at SOLEIL. A straightforward line-by-line analysis is complicated by the high congestion of the spectrum due to both the high density of SOCl2 rovibrational bands and the presence of the ν2 fundamental band of sulfur dioxide produced by hydrolysis of SOCl2 with residual water. To overcome this difficulty, our assignment procedure for the main isotopologues 32S16O35Cl2 and 32S16O35Cl37Cl alternates between a direct fit of the spectrum, via a global optimization technique, and a traditional line-by-line analysis. The global optimization, based on an evolutionary algorithm, produces rotational constants and band centers that serve as useful starting values for the subsequent spectroscopic analysis. This work helped to identify the pure rotational submillimeter spectrum of 32S16O35Cl2 in the v2=1 and v5=1 vibrational states of Martin-Drumel et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 144, 084305 (2016)]. As a by-product, the rotational transitions of the v4=1 far-IR inactive state were identified in the submillimeter spectrum. A global fit gathering all the microwave, submillimeter, and far-IR data of thionyl chloride has been performed, showing that no major perturbation of rovibrational energy levels occurs for the main isotopologue of the molecule.
Interaction of cylindrically converging diffracted shock with uniform interface
Authors: Liang Yu , Ding Juchun , Zhai Zhigang , Si Ting , Luo Xisheng
Published: August 2017

The Richtmyer-Meshkov instability of an unperturbed air/SF6 interface subjected to a diffracted shock is experimentally studied by high-speed schlieren photography under cylindrical circumstances. The cylindrically converging diffracted shock (CCDS) is produced by a cylindrically uniform shock diffracting around a rigid cylinder(s), and the unperturbed interface is created by a soap film technique. The effects of coupling of multiple rigid cylinders and diverse spacings from the cylinder to interface on a flow field are highlighted. Schlieren images indicate that the amplitude of disturbances on the CCDS increases compared with the local shock radius. After the CCDS impact, a bulge is derived from the interface due to the shock-shock interaction inside the interface, and the number of bulges depends upon the number of cylinders. As the number of cylinders increases, the bulge becomes less pronounced, which is ascribed to additional shock-shock interactions inside the volume. As the distance between the cylinder and interface increases, an air cavity is first observed before the formation of a bulge. The amplitude of perturbation on the interface is found to reduce before the central reflected shock arrival because of the Rayleigh-Taylor stabilization effect. Through equating the pre-interface disturbance of the CCDS to the pre-shock perturbation of the perturbed interface, the initially linear growth rate is theoretically computed based on the impulsive model considering the Bell-Plesset effect. The theoretical results are found to deviate greatly from the experimental counterparts. Instead, taking the post-shock interface amplitude as an initial interface amplitude, the model works well. Therefore, the interface perturbations produced are notably smaller than the disturbances causing them. Moreover, the nonlinear behavior of perturbation growth is estimated by the model considering the Rayleigh-Taylor effect.
Deterministic coupling of a system of multiple quantum dots to a single photonic cavity mode
Authors: Lyasota A. , Jarlov C. , Gallo P. , Rudra A. , Dwir B. , Kapon E.
Published: August 2017

We fabricated and studied a system comprising four site-controlled semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) embedded in a linear photonic crystal membrane cavity. The excellent position control and small spectral broadening permit coupling of the emission of all four QDs to the same photonic cavity modes. This is corroborated by co-polarization of the QD and cavity emission lines, as well as reduction in decay time, both with characteristic dependence on QD-cavity energy detuning. Scaling up to larger QD systems is discussed.
Effects of phase fraction on superconductivity of low-valence eutectic titanate films
Authors: Kurokawa Hikaru , Yoshimatsu Kohei , Sakata Osami , Ohtomo Akira
Published: August 2017

Creation and characterization of mixed valence states in transition-metal oxides are a fundamental approach to search for the unprecedented electronic and magnetic properties. In contrast to complex oxides, mixed-valence simple oxides tend to form binary or ternary phases, and turning a valence from one to next must be accompanied by structural transformations owing to a lower tolerance for oxygen non-stoichiometry. In this paper, epitaxial growth and transport properties of low-valence titanate thin films are reported to shed light on recently discovered superconducting γ-phase Ti3O5 (γ-Ti3O5). Single-phase TiO and Ti2O3 films and eutectic films including TiO, Ti2O3, and γ-Ti3O5 phases were independently grown on α-Al2O3 (0001) substrates by using pulsed-laser deposition. The X-ray diffraction measurements revealed clear epitaxial relationships with substrates and among three eutectic phases. Temperature dependence of the resistivity revealed that the γ-Ti3O5-rich films exhibited superconductivity with a maximum of transition temperature (TC) of 6.3 K. Distinct effects of the phase fraction on TC are found between TiO- and Ti2O3-enriched samples, suggesting the complex mechanisms of the superconducting proximity effect.
Transition metal partially supported graphene: Magnetism and oscillatory electrostatic potentials
Authors: Liu Xiaojie , Wang Cai-Zhuang
Published: August 2017

Using first-principles calculations, we show that Mn and Cr layers under graphene exhibit almost zero magnetic moment due to anti-ferromagnetic order, while ferromagnetic coupling in Fe, Co, and Ni leads to large magnetic moment. Transition metal partially supported graphene, with a mixture of supported and pristine areas, exhibits an oscillatory electrostatic potential, thus alternating the electric field across the supported and pristine areas. Such an effect can be utilized to control mass transport and nanostructure self-organization on graphene at the atomic level.
A novel in situ electrochemical NMR cell with a palisade gold film electrode
Authors: Ni Zu-Rong , Cui Xiao-Hong , Cao Shuo-Hui , Chen Zhong
Published: August 2017

In situ electrochemical nuclear magnetic resonance (EC-NMR) has attracted considerable attention because of its ability to directly observe real-time electrochemical processes. Therefore, minimizing the incompatibility between the electrochemical device and NMR detection has become an important challenge. A circular thin metal film deposited on the outer surface of a glass tube with a thickness considerably less than the metal skin depth is considered to be the ideal working electrode. In this study, we demonstrate that such a thin film electrode still has a great influence on the radio frequency field homogeneity in the detective zone of the NMR spectrometer probe and provide theoretical and experimental confirmation of its electromagnetic shielding. Furthermore, we propose a novel palisade gold film device to act as the working electrode. The NMR nutation behavior of protons shows that the uniformity of the radio frequency field is greatly improved, increasing the sensitivity in NMR detection. Another advantage of the proposed device is that an external reference standard adapted to the reaction compound can be inserted as a probe to determine the fluctuation of the physico-chemical environment and achieve high-accuracy quantitative NMR analysis. A three-chamber electrochemical device based on the palisade gold film design was successfully fabricated and the in situ electrochemical NMR performance was validated in a standard 5 mm NMR probe by acquiring voltammograms and high-resolution NMR spectra to characterize the electrochemically generated species. The evolution of in situ EC-NMR spectrum monitoring of the redox transformation between p-benzoquinone and hydroquinone demonstrates the ability of the EC-NMR device to simultaneously quantitatively determine the reactants and elucidate the reaction mechanism at the molecular level.
Changes in urinary androgen concentration indicate that male giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) respond to impending female oestrus during and outside the typical spring breeding season
Authors: Gocinski Barbara L. , Knott Katrina K. , Roberts Beth M. , Brown Janine L. , Vance Carrie K. , Kouba Andrew J.
Published: August 2017

Giant pandas have been described as mono-oestrus spring breeders, yet males exposed to aseasonal oestrous females in the autumn or winter exhibit breeding behaviours and interest in mating. In the present study, urinary androgens and sperm parameters were quantified for males exposed to females expressing oestrus during spring, autumn or winter to examine plasticity of reproductive seasonality in giant pandas. Monthly average androgen concentrations for two males exposed to females in either seasonal or aseasonal oestrus were greater (P < 0.001) than baseline concentrations. Evaluation of daily androgen concentrations revealed a peak that was three- to fivefold greater than baseline, occurring an average of 5 days before ovulation for both seasonal and aseasonal cycles. There were no significant differences in testes volume, sperm motility, forward progression or sperm concentration in males between female seasonal and aseasonal cycle years. Male gonadal activity was more variable without a clear pattern in years when the female was anovulatory than when she was ovulatory (seasonal or aseasonal). These data show the flexible reproductive capacity of male giant pandas as demonstrated by a rapid physiological readiness to mate in response to female oestrous cues within or outside the normal breeding season and may suggest a facultative seasonal reproduction with a ‘female-induced rut’.
2-Hydroxyisobutyrylation on histone H4K8 is regulated by glucose homeostasis in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Huang Jing , Luo Zhouqing , Ying Wantao , Cao Qichen , Huang He , Dong Junkai , Wu Qingyu , Zhao Yingming , Qian Xiaohong , Dai Junbiao
Published: August 2017

Significance

DNA–histone complexes are packed into the eukaryotic genome and fit into the nucleus of the cell. One mechanism to access the genetic information is to disrupt the complexes through posttranslational modification of histones. Recently, histone H4K8 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation (H4K8
hib
) was identified as an evolutionarily conserved active mark. However, how this modification is regulated and what are the enzymes to modulate this modification within a cell remain a mystery. In this study, we discover that this modification is regulated by the availability of a carbon source in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
and identify the enzymes catalyzing the removal of this active mark in vivo. This discovery provides insight into the function and regulation of the histone mark H4K8
hib
.
Conformational and chemical selection by atrans-acting editing domain
Authors: Danhart Eric M. , Bakhtina Marina , Cantara William A. , Kuzmishin Alexandra B. , Ma Xiao , Sanford Brianne L. , Vargas-Rodriguez Oscar , Košutić Marija , Goto Yuki , Suga Hiroaki , Nakanishi Kotaro , Micura Ronald , Foster Mark P. , Musier-Forsyth Karin
Published: August 2017

Significance

Charging of tRNAs with the wrong amino acid can result in mistranslation of protein-encoding genes. Proofreading by tRNA editing domains clears these mischarged tRNAs, ensuring fidelity; however, structures of complexes with mischarged substrates are not currently available, and many mechanistic questions remain unanswered. ProXp-ala, present in all domains of life, selectively removes Ala from tRNAPro, leaving the cognate Pro-tRNAProintact. A chemically synthesized nonhydrolyzable substrate analog has allowed characterization of the enzyme-substrate complex using NMR spectroscopy. Based on NMR studies, mutagenesis, enzymatic assays, molecular dynamics, and X-ray crystallography, we conclude that ProXp-ala uses multiple strategies, including conformational selection by a dynamic helix, size exclusion, and chemical discrimination, to ensure editing solely of Ala-tRNAPro.
Trajectories of Cannabis use Beginning in Adolescence Associated with Symptoms of Posttraumatic stress Disorder in the Mid-Thirties
Authors: Lee Jung Yeon , Brook Judith S. , Finch Stephen J. , Brook David W.
Published: August 2017

Background

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms are related to a number of adverse consequences such as substance use and general medical conditions. The present longitudinal study seeks to find the longitudinal patterns of cannabis use as precursors of PTSD symptoms. Such information will serve as a guide for intervention programs for PTSD.

Methods

Growth mixture modeling was conducted to identify the cannabis use trajectory groups using a community sample of 674 participants (53% African Americans, 47% Hispanics of Puerto Rican decent; 60% females) from the Harlem Longitudinal Development Study. Logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the association between earlier trajectories of cannabis use (ages 14 to 36) and later symptoms of PTSD (at age 36) for the full model including the entire sample ( N = 674) as well as the reduced model including only participants who had experienced a traumatic event ( n = 205).

Results

Five trajectory groups of cannabis use were obtained. The chronic use group (full model: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.68, P < .01; reduced model: AOR = 4.27, P < .05), the late quitting group (full model: AOR = 6.18, P < .01; reduced model: AOR = 6.67, P < .01), and the moderate use group (full model: AOR = 3.97, P < .01; reduced model: AOR = 3.32, P < .05) were all associated with an increased likelihood of having PTSD symptoms at age 36 compared with the no use group.

Conclusions

The findings provide information that PTSD symptoms in the mid-30s can possibly be reduced by decreasing membership in the chronic cannabis use trajectory group, the late quitting trajectory group, and the moderate cannabis use trajectory group.
Metabolic Syndrome among Individuals with Heroin use Disorders on Methadone Therapy: Prevalence, Characteristics, and Related Factors
Authors: Vallecillo Gabriel , Robles María José , Torrens Marta , Samos Pilar , Roquer Albert , Martires Paula K. , Sanvisens Arantza , Muga Roberto , Pedro-Botet Juan
Published: August 2017

Background

Observational studies have reported a high prevalence of obesity and diabetes in subjects on methadone therapy; there are, however, limited data about metabolic syndrome. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and related factors in individuals with heroin use disorder on methadone therapy.

Methods

A cross-sectional study in individuals with heroin use disorder on methadone therapy at a drug abuse outpatient center. Medical examinations and laboratory analyses after a 12-hour overnight fast were recorded. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria.

Results

One hundred and twenty-two subjects were included, with a mean age of 46.1 ± 9 years, a median body mass index (BMI) of 25.3 kg/m2 (interquartile range [IQR]: 21.2–28), and 77.9% were men. Median exposure to methadone therapy was 13 years (IQR: 5–20). Overweight and obesity were present in 29.5% and 17.2% of the participants, respectively. Metabolic syndrome components were low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (51.6%), hypertriglyceridemia (36.8%), high blood pressure (36.8%), abdominal obesity (27.0%), and raised blood glucose levels (18.0%). Abdominal obesity was more prevalent in women (52% vs. 20%, P = >0.01) and high blood pressure more prevalent in men (41.1% vs. 22.2%, P = .07). Prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 29.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.6–31.8). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, BMI (per 1 kg/m2 increase odds ratio [OR]: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.27–1.76) and exposure time to methadone therapy (per 5 years of treatment increase OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.28–1.48) were associated with metabolic syndrome.

Conclusions

Overweight and metabolic syndrome are prevalent findings in individuals with heroin use disorder on methadone therapy. Of specific concern is the association of methadone exposure with metabolic syndrome. Preventive measures and clinical routine screening should be recommended to prevent metabolic syndrome in subjects on methadone therapy.
Word and pseudoword superiority effects: Evidence from a shallow orthography language
Authors: Ripamonti Enrico , Luzzatti Claudio , Zoccolotti Pierluigi , Traficante Daniela
Published: August 2017

The word superiority effect (WSE) denotes better recognition of a letter embedded in a word rather than in a pseudoword. Along with WSE, also a pseudoword superiority effect (PSE) has been described: It is easier to recognise a letter in a legal pseudoword than in an unpronounceable nonword. At the current state of the art, both WSE and PSE have been mainly tested with English speakers. This study uses the Reicher–Wheeler paradigm with native speakers of Italian (a shallow orthography language). Different from English and French, we found WSE for reaction times (RTs) only, whereas PSE was significant for both accuracy and RTs. This finding indicates that in the Reicher–Wheeler task, readers of a shallow orthography language can effectively rely on both the lexical and the sublexical routes. As to the effect of letter position, a clear advantage for the first-letter position emerged, a finding suggesting a fine-grained processing of the letter strings with coding of letter position and indicating the role of visual acuity and crowding factors.