bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High frequency functional brain networks in neonates revealed by rapid acquisition resting state fMRI
Authors: Smith‐Collins Adam P.R. , Luyt Karen , Heep Axel , Kauppinen Risto A.
Published: March 2015

Understanding how spatially remote brain regions interact to form functional brain networks, and how these develop during the neonatal period, provides fundamental insights into normal brain development, and how mechanisms of brain disorder and recovery may function in the immature brain. A key imaging tool in characterising functional brain networks is examination of T2*‐weighted fMRI signal during rest (resting state fMRI, rs‐fMRI). The majority of rs‐fMRI studies have concentrated on slow signal fluctuations occurring at <0.1 Hz, even though neuronal rhythms, and haemodynamic responses to these fluctuate more rapidly, and there is emerging evidence for crucial information about functional brain connectivity occurring more rapidly than these limits. The characterisation of higher frequency components has been limited by the sampling frequency achievable with standard T2* echoplanar imaging (EPI) sequences. We describe patterns of neonatal functional brain network connectivity derived using accelerated T2*‐weighted EPI MRI. We acquired whole brain rs‐fMRI data, at subsecond sampling frequency, from preterm infants at term equivalent age and compared this to rs‐fMRI data acquired with standard EPI acquisition protocol. We provide the first evidence that rapid rs‐fMRI acquisition in neonates, and adoption of an extended frequency range for analysis, allows identification of a substantial proportion of signal power residing above 0.2 Hz. We thereby describe changes in brain connectivity associated with increasing maturity which are not evident using standard rs‐fMRI protocols. Development of optimised neonatal fMRI protocols, including use of high speed acquisition sequences, is crucial for understanding the physiology and pathophysiology of the developing brain. Hum Brain Mapp 36:2483–2494, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of primary surgery in the treatment of advanced oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Seikaly Hadi , Biron Vincent L. , Zhang Han , O'Connell Daniel A. , Côté David W. J. , Ansari Khalid , Williams David C. , Puttagunta Lakshmi , Harris Jeffrey R.
Published: March 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare survival outcomes of patients with advanced stage oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) according to surgical and nonsurgical treatments, when stratified by smoking and p16 status.

Methods

We conducted a prospective longitudinal population‐based study of 279 patients diagnosed with advanced oropharyngeal SCC. Patients were stratified by smoking and p16 status.

Results

There was no significant disease‐specific survival (DSS) difference in combined modality treatment groups in nonsmokers that had p16‐positive cancers, however, in smokers with p16‐positive cancers, the DSS surgery + postoperative chemoradiotherapy (S+CRT) was significantly higher than chemoradiotherapy (CRT) alone. Patients who had p16‐negative cancers had the highest DSS when treated with surgery + adjuvant therapy (S+RT)/CRT. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that increasing Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score, smoking, p16 status, higher stage, and treatment with surgery protocols were significant determinants of survival.

Conclusion

Primary surgical approaches offer the best survival outcomes in smokers with p16‐positive cancers and in patients with p16‐negative cancers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E–E, 2016
Olanzapine: evaluation of the in vivo cytogenetic effect
Authors: Constantinos Zampas , Eleni Papadopoulou , Goulas Antonis , Iakovidou – Kritsi Zafiroula
Published: March 2015

Background/Aims

Olanzapine (OLZ), an atypical antipsychotic, is licensed for use in the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.

Methods

OLZ cytogenetic effects were investigated by evaluating the frequency of Sister Chromatid Exchanges (SCEs) and Proliferation Rate Index (PRI) in cultured lymphocytes of schizophrenic patients who were under treatment of OLZ. SCE estimation is one of the most sensitive biomarkers of potential cytotoxicity, while PRI is used as a valuable marker of cytostatic activity.

Results

Our results showed a statistically significant increase of SCEs in the cultured lymphocytes of patients (p < 0,001) compared to the lymphocytes of healthy donors, a statistically significant increase of SCEs (p < 0.001) in the lymphocytes of smoker patients compared to those of non‐smoker patients and a statistically significant increase of SCEs (p < 0.001) in the lymphocytes of chronic recipients of OLZ compared to those of the patients with recent initiation of treatment. We did not detect any statistically significant differences with respect to PRI between the various groups examined.

Conclusions

Our results indicate a mild cytotoxic—but not cytostatic—effect of OLZ which was more prominent in smokers and in chronically treated patients. That effect should be taken into consideration by psychiatrists upon assessing the benefit/risk ratio of their prescriptions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glioblastoma‐derived extracellular vesicles modify the phenotype of monocytic cells
Authors: de Vrij Jeroen , Maas S.L. Niek , Kwappenberg Kitty M.C. , Schnoor Rosalie , Kleijn Anne , Dekker Lennard , Luider Theo M. , de Witte Lot D. , Litjens Manja , van Strien Miriam E. , Hol Elly M. , Kroonen Jerome , Robe Pierre A. , Lamfers Martine L. , Schilham Marco W. , Broekman Marike L.D.
Published: March 2015

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor and is without exception lethal. GBMs modify the immune system, which contributes to the aggressive nature of the disease. Particularly, cells of the monocytic lineage, including monocytes, macrophages and microglia, are affected. We investigated the influence of GBM‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) on the phenotype of monocytic cells. Proteomic profiling showed GBM EVs to be enriched with proteins functioning in extracellular matrix interaction and leukocyte migration. GBM EVs appeared to skew the differentiation of peripheral blood‐derived monocytes to alternatively activated/M2‐type macrophages. This was observed for EVs from an established cell line, as well as for EVs from primary cultures of GBM stem‐like cells (GSCs). Unlike EVs of non‐GBM origin, GBM EVs induced modified expression of cell surface proteins, modified cytokine secretion (e.g., an increase in vascular endothelial growth factor and IL‐6) and increased phagocytic capacity of the macrophages. Most pronounced effects were observed upon incubation with EVs from mesenchymal GSCs. GSC EVs also affected primary human microglia, resulting in increased expression of Membrane type 1‐matrix metalloproteinase, a marker for GBM microglia and functioning as tumor‐supportive factor. In conclusion, GBM‐derived EVs can modify cells of the monocytic lineage, which acquire characteristics that resemble the tumor‐supportive phenotypes observed in patients.
An anisotropic coarse‐grained model based on Gay–Berne and electric multipole potentials and its application to simulate a DMPC bilayer in an implicit solvent model
Authors: Shen Hujun , Li Yan , Xu Peijun , Li Xiaofang , Chu Huiying , Zhang Dinglin , Li Guohui
Published: March 2015

In this work, we aim at optimizing the performance of the anisotropic GBEMP model, which adopts a framework by combining a Gay–Berne (GB) anisotropic potential with an electric multipole (EMP) potential, in simulating a DMPC lipid bilayer in an implicit solvent model. First, the Gay–Berne parameters were initially obtained by fitting to atomistic profiles of van der Waals interactions between homodimers of molecular fragments while EMP parameters was directly derived from the expansion of point multipoles at predefined EMP sites. Second, the GB and EMP parameters for DMPC molecule were carefully optimized to be comparable to AMBER atomistic model in the calculations of the dipole moments of DMPC monomers adopting different conformations as well as the nonbonded interactions between two DMPC molecules adopting different conformations and separated at various distances. Finally, the GB parameters for DMPC were slightly adjusted in simulating a 72 DMPC bilayer system so that our GBEMP model would be able to reproduce a few important structural properties, namely, thickness (), area per lipid (
) and volume per lipid (
). Meanwhile, the atomistic and experimental results for electron density profiles and order parameters were reproduced reasonably well by the GBEMP model, demonstrating the promising feature of GBEMP model in modeling lipid systems. Finally, we have shown that current GBEMP model is more efficient by a factor of about 25 than AMBER atomistic point charge model. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Case Formulation and the Therapeutic Relationship: The Role of Therapist Self‐Reflection and Self‐Revelation
Authors: Tufekcioglu Sumru , Muran J. Christopher
Published: March 2015

This article examines the role of the therapist's self‐reflection and self‐revelation in case formulation. We believe that a collaboratively constructed case formulation must always be considered in the context of an evolving therapeutic relationship. Further, self‐reflection and self‐revelation on the part of the therapist are critical for a more elaborate and nuanced case formulation and for understanding the patient. This highlights the importance of attunement to the here and now and the evolving therapeutic relationship. From this attunement, the therapist's self‐reflection and self‐revelation can emerge further, which can lead to the patient's personal growth and increased self–other awareness. To illustrate our point, we present an integrative, relational model in the case of a patient who has been in treatment.
Neuroimaging in adult penetrating brain injury: a guide for radiographers
Authors: Temple Nikki , Donald Cortny , Skora Amanda , Reed Warren
Published: March 2015

Penetrating brain injuries (PBI) are a medical emergency, often resulting in complex damage and high mortality rates. Neuroimaging is essential to evaluate the location and extent of injuries, and to manage them accordingly. Currently, a myriad of imaging modalities are included in the diagnostic workup for adult PBI, including skull radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography, with each modality providing their own particular benefits. This literature review explores the current modalities available for investigating PBI and aims to assist in decision making for the appropriate use of diagnostic imaging when presented with an adult PBI. Based on the current literature, the authors have developed an imaging pathway for adult penetrating brain injury that functions as both a learning tool and reference guide for radiographers and other health professionals. Currently, CT is recommended as the imaging modality of choice for the initial assessment of PBI patients, while MRI is important in the sub‐acute setting where it aids prognosis prediction and rehabilitation planning, Additional follow‐up imaging, such as angiography, should be dependent upon clinical findings.
3D FEM modelling and experimental investigations of Al–Cu bimetallic bars rolling process in modified grooves
Authors: Mróz S. , Szota P. , Stefanik A. , Wasek S.
Published: March 2015

The paper presents the results of the numerical modelling and experimental tests of Al–Cu bimetallic bars groove rolling process. A bimetallic feedstock was manufactured using an explosive cladding method. The feedstocks were round bars with diameter of 22 mm and a cladding layer share of 15 and 30 %. As a result of rolling in 4 passes bars of a diameter of 16 mm were obtained. By applying the multi‐radial modified grooves to the rolling of Al–Cu bimetallic bars the stability of the rolling process was improved, whereby, finished bars with a uniform cladding layer distribution along the core and small diameter dimensional deviations were obtained. Forge2011®, a FEM‐relying software program, was employed for the theoretical examinations.
Low‐variance RNAs identify Parkinson's disease molecular signature in blood
Authors: Chikina Maria D. , Gerald Christophe P. , Li Xianting , Ge Yongchao , Pincas Hanna , Nair Venugopalan D. , Wong Aaron K. , Krishnan Arjun , Troyanskaya Olga G. , Raymond Deborah , Saunders‐Pullman Rachel , Bressman Susan B. , Yue Zhenyu , Sealfon Stuart C.
Published: March 2015

The diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) is usually not established until advanced neurodegeneration leads to clinically detectable symptoms. Previous blood PD transcriptome studies show low concordance, possibly resulting from the use of microarray technology, which has high measurement variation. The Leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) G2019S mutation predisposes to PD. Using preclinical and clinical studies, we sought to develop a novel statistically motivated transcriptomic‐based approach to identify a molecular signature in the blood of Ashkenazi Jewish PD patients, including LRRK2 mutation carriers. Using a digital gene expression platform to quantify 175 messenger RNA (mRNA) markers with low coefficients of variation (CV), we first compared whole‐blood transcript levels in mouse models (1) overexpressing wild‐type (WT) LRRK2, (2) overexpressing G2019S LRRK2, (3) lacking LRRK2 (knockout), and (4) and in WT controls. We then studied an Ashkenazi Jewish cohort of 34 symptomatic PD patients (both WT LRRK2 and G2019S LRRK2) and 32 asymptomatic controls. The expression profiles distinguished the four mouse groups with different genetic background. In patients, we detected significant differences in blood transcript levels both between individuals differing in LRRK2 genotype and between PD patients and controls. Discriminatory PD markers included genes associated with innate and adaptive immunity and inflammatory disease. Notably, gene expression patterns in levodopa‐treated PD patients were significantly closer to those of healthy controls in a dose‐dependent manner. We identify whole‐blood mRNA signatures correlating with LRRK2 genotype and with PD disease state. This approach may provide insight into pathogenesis and a route to early disease detection. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Data Mining and Machine Learning Tools for Combinatorial Material Science of All‐Oxide Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Yosipof Abraham , Nahum Oren E. , Anderson Assaf Y. , Barad Hannah‐Noa , Zaban Arie , Senderowitz Hanoch
Published: March 2015

Growth in energy demands, coupled with the need for clean energy, are likely to make solar cells an important part of future energy resources. In particular, cells entirely made of metal oxides (MOs) have the potential to provide clean and affordable energy if their power conversion efficiencies are improved. Such improvements require the development of new MOs which could benefit from combining combinatorial material sciences for producing solar cells libraries with data mining tools to direct synthesis efforts. In this work we developed a data mining workflow and applied it to the analysis of two recently reported solar cell libraries based on Titanium and Copper oxides. Our results demonstrate that QSAR models with good prediction statistics for multiple solar cells properties could be developed and that these models highlight important factors affecting these properties in accord with experimental findings. The resulting models are therefore suitable for designing better solar cells.
Circulating serum miRNAs as potential biomarkers for nephroblastoma
Authors: Ludwig Nicole , Nourkami‐Tutdibi Nasenien , Backes Christina , Lenhof Hans‐Peter , Graf Norbert , Keller Andreas , Meese Eckart
Published: March 2015

Background

Nephroblastoma (or Wilms tumor—WT) is the most common childhood kidney cancer. In Europe, nephroblastoma is treated with preoperative chemotherapy without histological confirmation by biopsy. Therefore, minimal‐invasive diagnostic markers confirming nephroblastoma diagnosis are highly warranted.

Procedure

In our study, we aim to identify circulating miRNAs with diagnostic potential for differentiating nephroblastoma from controls. We determined the level of 19 miRNAs in serum of 32 patients with nephroblastoma and 12 controls with quantitative real‐time PCR. Three miRNAs were further tested in an independent validation set including sera of patients with renal tumors other than Wilms.

Results

In total, 14 miRNAs showed significantly higher abundance in serum of patients with nephroblastoma than in controls. The miRNAs with highest diagnostic potentials included miRs‐130b‐3p, ‐100‐5p, and ‐143‐3p with an AUC of 0.94, 0.90, and 0.89, respectively. A signature based on these three miRNAs to differentiated patients from controls with an accuracy of 84.58%, a sensitivity of 76.67%, and a specificity of 92.5%. Higher expression of miRs‐100‐5p and ‐130b‐3p was confirmed in an independent validation set. The signature based on miRs‐100‐5p and ‐130b‐3p differentiated patients with nephroblastoma from healthy controls with an accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 79.6%, 69.2%, and 90.0%, respectively.

Conclusion

In summary, we provide first evidence that serum miR‐100‐5p and ‐130b‐3p hold potential as biomarker for WT irrespective of the subtype and that expression level of these miRNA in serum is unaffected by differences in serum collection. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:1360–1367. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Graphene nanoplate and multiwall carbon nanotube–embedded polycarbonate hybrid composites: High electromagnetic interference shielding with low percolation threshold
Authors: Maiti Sandip , Khatua B.B.
Published: March 2015

This study has reported the preparation of polycarbonate (PC)/graphene nanoplate (GNP)/multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) hybrid composite by simple melt mixing method of PC with GNP and MWCNT at 330°C above the processing temperature of the PC (processing temperature is 280°C) followed by compression molding. Through optimizing the ratio of (GNP/MWCNT) in the composites, high electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) value (∼21.6 dB) was achieved at low (4 wt%) loading of (GNP/MWCNT) and electrical conductivity of ≈6.84 × 10−5 S.cm−1 was achieved at 0.3 wt% (GNP/MWCNT) loading with low percolation threshold (≈0.072 wt%). The high temperature melt mixing of PC with nanofillers lowers the melt viscosity of the PC that has helped for better dispersion of the GNPs and MWCNTs in the PC matrix and plays a key factor for achieving high EMI shielding value and high electrical conductivity with low percolation threshold than ever reported in PC/MWCNT or PC/graphene composites. With this method, the formation of continuous conducting interconnected GNP‐CNT‐GNP or CNT‐GNP‐CNT network structure in the matrix polymer and strong π–π interaction between the electron rich phenyl rings and oxygen atom of PC chain, GNP, and MWCNT could be possible throughout the composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:2058–2069, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Micro‐Driving behavior of carbon‐fiber‐reinforced epoxy resin for standing‐wave ultrasonic motor
Authors: Qu Yanyan , Zhang Yanhu , Qu Jianjun
Published: March 2015

The application of the friction drive of carbon‐fiber‐reinforced composites to a standing‐wave ultrasonic motor was investigated. Friction drive tests were conducted on carbon‐fiber‐reinforced epoxy resins (CF/epoxy) by home‐made test rig, which was based on plate‐rod vibrator. The effects of fiber orientation and ply thickness on dynamic drive and dynamic normal forces were investigated. Fiber orientation angle and ply thickness affected friction drive. Different dynamic drive forces, which varied both in amplitude and period, were observed for CF/epoxy composites with different winding angles. A CF/epoxy composite with a winding angle of 30° showed the largest dynamic drive force (∼0.45 N) and the shortest contact period (∼26 μs). The period of dynamic normal force was uniform (∼65 μs) for various CF/epoxy composites. Wear traces of different composites exhibited different wear modes, such as scuffing, peeling, and shearing. The anisotropic property of CF/epoxy material affected the drive process of standing‐wave ultrasonic motor. The current study taking the carbon‐fiber‐reinforced epoxy resin as an example of anisotropic materials arise more enough attention on inexpensive, biodegradable, and renewable alternatives for the efficient and durative drive of a standing‐wave ultrasonic motor. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:2152–2159, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of filler addition and weathering conditions on the performance of PVC/CaCO3 composites
Authors: Guermazi Noamen , Haddar Nader , Elleuch Khaled , Ayedi H. Ferid
Published: March 2015

This study deals with the effects of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) fillers and hygrothermal aging on the performance of polyvinylchloride (PVC). The properties of the PVC/CaCO3 composite were studied before and after aging in water up to 3 months at 24°C ± 3°C, 70°C, and 90°C. In terms of fillers effect, it was found that the incorporation of fillers in PVC induces an increase in both Tg value and storage modulus; however, it had no significant effect on the water absorption. However, the addition of fillers has resulted in an improvement in the elastic modulus, whereas it has shown harmful effect on the tensile strength and elongation at break. Concerning flexural properties, an important filler percentage, that is, 35 wt%, is proved to be the optimum content to achieve maximum strength and modulus as well as wear properties. In terms of aging impact, it was found that shift in color on aging occurs noticeably. Elastic modulus, tensile strength, flexural strength, and flexural modulus increase with increasing temperature from ambient to 70°C, whereas they decrease at 90°C. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis confirmed that at high temperature, the absorbed water affects the PVC matrix during aging. As a result, a loss in strength and stiffness but a gain of ductility was observed. The great quantity of absorbed water acts as a barrier layer and, thus, minimizes the wear. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:2171–2183, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Low‐temperature hollow cathode plasma‐assisted atomic layer deposition of crystalline III‐nitride thin films and nanostructures
Authors: Ozgit‐Akgun Cagla , Goldenberg Eda , Bolat Sami , Tekcan Burak , Kayaci Fatma , Uyar Tamer , Okyay Ali Kemal , Biyikli Necmi
Published: March 2015

Hollow cathode plasma‐assisted atomic layer deposition (HCPA‐ALD) is a promising technique for obtaining III‐nitride thin films with low impurity concentrations at low temperatures. Here we report our previous and current efforts on the development of HCPA‐ALD processes for III‐nitrides together with the properties of resulting thin films and nanostructures. The content further includes nylon 6,6‐GaN core‐shell nanofibers, proof‐of‐concept thin film transistors and UV photodetectors fabricated using HCPA‐ALD‐grown GaN layers, as well as InN thin films deposited by HCPA‐ALD using cyclopentadienyl indium and trimethylindium precursors. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Simulation of the stress state of GaN‐AlN based epitaxial devices
Authors: Kumar Arun , Iyer Ganesh , Subramaniam Anandh
Published: March 2015

The stress state plays an important role in the performance of GaN‐AlN based multilayer epitaxial devices and their degradation with time. The stress state arises due to the superposition of stresses originating from multiple sources: (i) thermal mismatch, (ii) epitaxial growth, (iii) low angle grain boundaries (threading dislocations) and (iv) interfacial misfit edge dislocations. The current investigation pertains to the plane strain linear elastic finite element simulation of the stress state of a model GaN‐AlN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) device on a Si substrate, taking into account the above‐mentioned sources of stresses. The value of stresses arising from grain boundary dislocations corresponds to the experimental results and imposed as tractions in the numerical model, while the other stresses are modelled using eigenstrains in appropriate regions in the finite element domain. A ten step simulation strategy is developed to simulate the stress state of the entire HEMT device. It is seen that: (i) the AlN layers are under tensile stress, (ii) the embedded GaN layers are under compressive stress, (iii) the GaN layer between source and drain is under tensile stress, (iv) the AlGaN layer is under tensile stress, (v) the source and the drain are mostly in tensile stress, while the gate is nearly stress‐free. The AlGaN and GaN layers (close to the source and drain) are under tensile stress (by considerations of pure epitaxy these are expected to be under compression). The critical thickness for the stability of a misfit edge dislocation at the AlN‐GaN interface is computed using the simulations. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Improved GaN films with low background doping and low deep trap density grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy
Authors: Polyakov Alexander , Smirnov Nikolai , Govorkov Anatoli , Kozhukhova Elena , Yugova Tatiana , Usikov Alexander , Helava Heikki , Makarov Yuri
Published: March 2015

Electrical properties and deep electron and hole traps spectra are compared for undoped n‐GaN films grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) on sapphire substrates at 850 °C (Group 1) and 950 °C (Group 2). Group 1 samples have very low residual donor concentration ((2‐5)×1014 cm‐3), very low density of electron and hole traps, low leakage current of Schottky diodes. Group 2 samples are not very different from the usual thick HVPE samples in terms of predominant electron and hole traps and MCL spectra. But the concentration of both electron and hole traps is quite high and could contribute to rather high reverse leakage current, low photocurrent and pronounced tunneling. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The effects of Al on the neutral Mg acceptor impurity in AlxGa1‐xN
Authors: Sunay U. R. , Zvanut M. E. , Allerman A. A.
Published: March 2015

High hole concentrations in AlxGa1‐xN become increasingly difficult to obtain as the concentration of Al increases. It is well known in GaN and related alloys that hole concentration is directly affected by compensation and extended defects. Using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, we studied the amount of neutral Mg in AlxGa1‐xN with x = 0 to 0.28. 0.4‐0.9 μm thick Mg‐doped AlxGa1‐xN films were grown by metal‐organic chemical vapour deposition and annealed at 900 °C anneal in N2. EPR measurements indicate that the amount of neutral Mg decreased by 60% in AlxGa1‐xN films for x = 0.18 and 0.28 as compared to x=0.00 and 0.08. Experiments also showed that the lower neutral Mg for higher Al compositions trend did not depend on threading dislocation densities in the range of 3‐20x109 cm‐2, capping the surface with 5 nm of P+ GaN, or detailed annealing conditions. Additional studies show that oxygen and carbon concentrations are insufficient to account for the decrease in neutral Mg observed in the samples. Although the study cannot isolate the cause for the decrease in neutral Mg, the results clearly demonstrate that the acceptor concentration decreases with increasing Al, providing an additional limitation to achieving high hole densities. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Review: Phytochemicals Targeting JAK/STAT Signaling and IDO Expression in Cancer
Authors: Arumuggam Niroshaathevi , Bhowmick Neil A. , Rupasinghe H. P. Vasantha
Published: March 2015

Cancer remains a major health problem worldwide. Among many other factors, two regulatory defects that are present in most cancer cells are constitutive activation of Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway and the induction of indoleamine 2, 3‐dioxygenase (IDO), an enzyme that catalyzes tryptophan degradation, through JAK/STAT signaling. Cytokine signaling activates STAT proteins in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival through modulation of target genes. Many phytochemicals can inhibit both JAK/STAT signaling and IDO expression in antigen‐presenting cells by targeting different pathways. Some of the promising phytochemicals that are discussed in this review include resveratrol, cucurbitacin, curcumin, (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate, and others. It is now evident that phytochemicals play key roles in inhibition of tumor proliferation and development and provide novel means for therapeutic targeting of cancer. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical Oxidation Performance in High Temperature, Saline Groundwater Impacted With Hydrocarbons
Authors: Kashir Mansor , McGregor Rick
Published: March 2015

A series of laboratory microcosm experiments and a field pilot test were performed to evaluate the potential for in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) of aromatic hydrocarbons and methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), a common oxygenate additive in gasoline, in saline, high temperature (more than 30 °C) groundwater. Groundwater samples from a site in Saudi Arabia were amended in the laboratory portion of the study with the chemical oxidants, sodium persulfate (Na2S2O8) and sodium percarbonate (Na2(CO3)2), to evaluate the changes in select hydrocarbon and MTBE concentrations with time. Almost complete degradation of the aromatic hydrocarbons, naphthalene and trimethylbenzenes (TMBs), was found in the groundwater sample amended with persulfate, whereas the percarbonate‐amended sample showed little to no degradation of the target hydrocarbon compounds in the laboratory. Isotopic analyses of the persulfate‐amended samples suggested that C‐isotope fractionation for xylenes occurred after approximately 30 percent reduction in concentration with a decline of about 1 percent in the δ13C values of xylenes. Based on the laboratory results, pilot‐scale testing at the Saudi Arabian field site was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of chemical oxidation using nonactivated persulfate on a high temperature, saline petroleum hydrocarbon plume. Approximately 1,750 kg of Na2S2O8 was delivered to the subsurface using a series of injection wells over three injection events. Results obtained from the pilot test indicated that all the target compounds decreased with removal percentages varying between 86 percent for naphthalene and more than 99 percent for the MTBE and TMBs. The benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene compounds decreased to 98 percent on average. Examination of the microbial population upgradient and downgradient of the ISCO reactive zone suggested that a bacteria population was present following the ISCO injections with sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRB) being the dominant bacteria present. Measurements of inorganic parameters during injection and postinjection indicated that the pH of the groundwater remained neutral following injections, whereas the oxidation–reduction potential remained anaerobic throughout the injection zone with time. Nitrate concentrations decreased within the injection zone, suggesting that the nitrate may have been consumed by denitrification reactions, whereas sulfate concentrations increased as expected within the reactive zone, suggesting that the persulfate produced sulfate. Overall, the injection of the oxidant persulfate was shown to be an effective approach to treat dissolved aromatic and associated hydrocarbons within the groundwater. In addition, the generation of sulfate as a byproduct was an added benefit, as the sulfate could be utilized by SRBs present within the subsurface to further biodegrade any remaining hydrocarbons. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Systematic Approach to the Evaluation of RCRA Disposal Facilities Under Future Climate‐Induced Events
Authors: Worthy Roneisha , Abkowitz Mark D. , Clarke James H.
Published: March 2015

The ability of near‐surface disposal facility cover designs to meet percolation performance criteria can be influenced by naturally occurring climatic mechanisms as well as anthropogenic forcing. This study was conducted to determine the effect of climate‐induced events on percolation based, probabilistic distributions derived from historical climate data. Water balance predictions were evaluated using the HELP model, employing several variations of degradation in a traditional RCRA disposal facility cover design over a 100‐year simulation period. Results demonstrated that changes in precipitation and temperature can influence performance. The analysis also revealed that when both precipitation and temperature are increased, warmer temperatures tend to offset some of the impact from greater precipitation. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Excision and Patch Grafting of a Lateral Peyronie's Plaque—Utilizing a Longitudinal “Window” Approach
Authors: Lue Kathy , Emtage Justin B. , Martinez Daniel R. , Yang Christopher , Carrion Rafael
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Peyronie's disease (PD) is a debilitating disorder in which collagen deposition, fibrosis, and plaques in the tunica albuginea result in penile curvature, shortening, and pain. For severe curvatures requiring plaque incision or excision with grafting (PIEG), a subcoronal circumcising incision with penile degloving has historically been used.

Aims

The aim of this study was to report our unique approach to PIEG via a longitudinal “window” incision for the correction of PD, minimizing the surgical manipulation and dissection accompanying the traditional circumcising incisional approach that may lead to increased postoperative edema, pain, and prolonged healing time.

Methods

A patient presented with a stable, painless, 90-degree midshaft leftward curvature causing penetration difficulties and painful intercourse for his partner. His Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) score was 23. The patient opted for surgical correction with plaque excision and grafting via a 4-cm longitudinal incision overlying the point of maximal curvature along the left lateral penile shaft. This direct access to the left corpus cavernosum and plaque, along with dissecting skin, dartos, and Buck's fascia, created a window with sufficient exposure for excision and patch grafting.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures were objective data and subjective data in men undergoing PIEG via lateral longitudinal “window” incision for PD repair.

Results

The plaque was excised and a porcine small intestinal submucosa graft was sewn in. Intraoperative artificial tumescence at the end of surgery revealed complete correction of the curvature. The patient experienced painless rigid erections by postoperative day three with minimal penile edema. By postoperative week four, he could successfully partake in coitus. His SHIM score remained unchanged. At maximum follow-up 6 months postoperatively, he still endorsed excellent cosmetic and functional outcomes with spontaneous unassisted erections and no recurrence of his curvature.

Conclusion

A lateral longitudinal incision for PIEG is a feasible technique and may reduce the postoperative morbidity and dissection required with traditional circumcising incision with penile degloving. Larger comparative studies are necessary for further evaluation.
Caterpillar‐Inspired Design and Fabrication of A Self‐Walking Actuator with Anisotropy, Gradient, and Instant Response
Authors: Li Bin , Du Tao , Yu Bo , van der Gucht Jasper , Zhou Feng
Published: March 2015

A caterpillar–mimetic bilayer actuator is reported, based on a wrinkled polydimethylsiloxane elastomer decorated with a hydroresponsive polyelectrolyte brush. The actuator can fold ultrafast into complex three‐dimensional structures upon a change in relative humidity of the surrounding air. The folding direction is determined by the geometry of the actuator, the orientation of the wrinkles, and the gradient in polymer height on the surface. And some unique structures such as helicoid and gradient can be obtained that are seldom reported in the case of bilayered devices. The adaptive bending movement is very fast, anisotropic, highly efficient, and reversible. When the environmental humidity is repeatedly cycled up and down, the small device walks on a surface with a roughness gradient, which is reminiscent of the muscle‐like movements.
The Sixth Pillar of Reading Instruction
Authors: Cervetti Gina N. , Hiebert Elfrieda H.
Published: March 2015

The National Reading Panel (NRP) identified five pillars, or essential components, of reading instruction that lead to the highest chance of reading success—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. A decade after the NRP's report, the majority of US states adopted the Common Core State Standards/English Language Arts & Literacy (CCSS/ELA). One of the most significant changes of the CCSS/ELA is a focus on knowledge development as part of literacy development and focus on the acquisition of literacy skills specific to different disciplines. In highlighting these connections between ELA and knowledge as part of literacy, the CCSS/ELA provide an opportunity for teachers to emphasize what research has validated for decades: that knowledge is a critical component of the reading process. In this column, we describe why knowledge development should be viewed as the sixth pillar of reading instruction and how teachers can increase their students’ knowledge building through reading.
Water Molecules in Hydrotalcite‐like Layered Double Hydroxides: Interplay between the Hydration of the Anions and the Metal Hydroxide Layer
Authors: Marappa Shivanna , Vishnu Kamath P.
Published: March 2015

Layered double hydroxides comprise positively charged metal hydroxide layers and intercalated anions. These materials are obtained from aqueous medium both in nature and in the laboratory. Consequently the layered double hydroxides include a considerable amount of water. The presented study was designed to determine the proportion of water associated with the hydration sphere of the anion as opposed to that of the metal hydroxide slab. Among the two differently bound water species observed in all layered double hydroxides, the weakly bound water is associated with the metal hydroxide layer and is lost at 100 °C, whereas the strongly bound water is in the hydration sphere of the anion and is lost at higher temperatures (100 °C ≤ T ≤ 250 °C). This is in contrast to the better known cationic clays, wherein all the intercalated water is generally found to be in the hydration sphere of the cations. Further the water molecules in layered double hydroxides also bond to each other, leading to the incorporation of water in excess of what is predicted by the Miyata formula (Miyata, 1975) based on crystal chemical considerations. The excess water is one of the reasons for the poor crystallinity of layered hydroxides.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Optical, Magnetic and Thermal Properties of (NH4)2Mn[B2P3O11(OH)2]Cl
Authors: Förg Katharina , Höppe Henning A.
Published: March 2015

(NH4)2MnII[B2P3O11(OH)2]Cl was synthesized as a crystalline colorless powder by reaction of MnCl2, (NH4)2HPO4, H3BO3, and H3PO4 under hydrothermal conditions at 180 °C. According to X‐ray single‐crystal investigations (NH4)2Mn[B2P3O11(OH)2]Cl crystallizes in a new structure type in the monoclinic space group P21/n (no. 14) [Z = 4, a = 905.24(3), b = 847.29(3), c = 1652.32(5) pm, β = 92.303(1)°, R1 = 0.025, wR2 = 0.063, 2227 data, 229 parameters]. The crystal structure comprises infinite layers of corner‐sharing borate, hydroxo‐borate phosphate, and hydroxo‐phosphate tetrahedra with Mn2+, NH4+, and Cl– ions in‐between. The loop‐branched (lB) vierer‐single layer reveals an open‐branched (oB) vierer‐single ring as a novel fundamental building unit (FBU) 2∞[B2P3Φ13] (Φ = O, OH). The Mn atom is coordinated slightly distorted octahedrally by five oxygen atoms from two different borophosphate layers and one chlorine atom. Amongst others the magnetic properties of the compound are presented confirming that the compound obeys Curie's law.
When do relative prices matter for measuring income inequality? The case of food prices in Mozambique
Authors: Arndt Channing , Jones Sam , Salvucci Vincenzo
Published: March 2015

Changes in relative prices of commodities consumed in different shares across income groups can be expected to alter real income differentials between these groups. Using Mozambican household budget survey and price data from 2002/03 and 2008/09, we show that once relative price increases are accounted for, inequality of real consumption increases substantially. We obtain this result by constructing a price deflator that reflects divergent price dynamics of different product categories. Since the main factors driving this result prevail in other developing countries, it is likely that inequality may be underestimated elsewhere.
Modelling Trends in Ordered Correspondence Analysis Using Orthogonal Polynomials
Authors: Lombardo Rosaria , Beh Eric J. , Kroonenberg Pieter M.
Published: March 2015

The core of the paper consists of the treatment of two special decompositions for correspondence analysis of two-way ordered contingency tables: the bivariate moment decomposition and the hybrid decomposition, both using orthogonal polynomials rather than the commonly used singular vectors. To this end, we will detail and explain the basic characteristics of a particular set of orthogonal polynomials, called Emerson polynomials. It is shown that such polynomials, when used as bases for the row and/or column spaces, can enhance the interpretations via linear, quadratic and higher-order moments of the ordered categories. To aid such interpretations, we propose a new type of graphical display—the polynomial biplot.
Structural location, composition, and geodynamic nature of diamond-bearing metamorphic rocks of the Kokchetav subduction–collision zone of the Central Asian Fold Belt (northern Kazakhstan)
Authors: Buslov M.M. , Dobretsov N.L. , Vovna G.M. , Kiselev V.I.
Published: March 2015

We present data on different aspects of geology, mineralogy, petrology, geochemistry, and geochronology of diamond-bearing metamorphic rocks of the Kumdy-Kol terrane, which show the similarity of their protolith to the sedimentary rocks of the Kokchetav microcontinent. The structural location of the studied objects in the accretion–collision zone evidences that the subduction of the Kokchetav microcontinent beneath the Vendian–Cambrian Ishim–Selety island arc is the main mechanism of transport of graphite-bearing terrigenous-carbonate rocks to zones of their transformation into diamond-bearing metamorphic rocks. The sedimentary rocks of the Kokchetav microcontinent, which are enriched in graphite and iron sulfides and carbonates, contain all components necessary for diamond crystallization in deep-seated subduction zone. This is in agreement with the experimental data and the compositions of fluid-melt inclusions in the minerals of diamond-bearing rocks.
Carbonate, silicate, and sulfide melts: heterogeneity of the UHP mineral-forming media in calc-silicate rocks from the Kokchetav massif
Authors: Mikhno A.O. , Korsakov A.V.
Published: March 2015

We present data on carbonatite, silicate, and sulfide melts and their immiscibility at different stages of ultrahigh-pressure metamorphism of rocks of the Kokchetav Massif (northern Kazakhstan). The identified silicate, silicate–carbonate, and sulfide inclusions are regarded as crystallization products of high-pressure melts. The detected reactionary garnet-K-feldspar-allanite-calcite symplectite structures as inclusions in garnet and as identical structures around it evidence that they resulted from carbonatite melt crystallization. Carbonate melting was probably triggered by the present free fluid phase (mostly H2O) and/or a high content of alkalies in the system. The coexistence of carbonate and silicate inclusions testifies to the immiscibility of carbonatite and silicate melts. The presence of K-cymrite in the polyphase inclusions indicates that the minimum pressure of silicate melt intake is ~ 4.5 GPa. The maximum pressure of this intake is 6–7 GPa at 1000–1100 °C and corresponds to the peak of metamorphism of the Kokchetav Massif rocks. Most likely, the field of immiscibility of carbonatite and silicate melts lies within 4.5–7 GPa and 950–1100 °C. The carbonatite melt can dissolve up to 18 wt.% SiO2, and the silicate melt, up to 4.5 vol.% CaCO3.
The crystal structure of girvasite, NaCa2Mg3(PO4)3(CO3)(H2O)6, a complex phosphate-carbonate hydrate based upon electroneutral heteropolyhedral layers
Authors: Krivovichev S.V. , Chernyatieva A.P. , Britvin S.N. , Yakovenchuk V.N.
Published: March 2015

The crystal structure of girvasite, NaCa2Mg3(PO4)3(CO3)(H2O)6, has been refined using X-ray diffraction data collected at 173 K, which allowed us to revise its crystal chemical formula. The mineral is monoclinic, P21/c, a = 6.4784(2), b = 12.2313(3), c = 21.3494(6) Å, β = 89.624(2)°, V = 1691.67(8) Å3 (at 173 K), Z = 4, R1 = 0.037 for 6471 unique observed reflections. The crystal structure of girvasite contains three Mg, two Ca, and one Na sites. The Mg atoms are octahedrally coordinated by O atoms and H2O molecules. The Ca sites are coordinated by eight anions each, whereas the Na site has a coordination number equal to seven. The crystal structure is based upon heteropolyhedral sheets formed by polymerization of Mg octahedra, PO4 tetrahedra, and CO3 groups. The sheets consist of fundamental building units (FBUs) formed by two Mg octahedra that share edges to form dimers decorated by three PO4 tetrahedra and linked to a unit consisting of a MgO6 octahedron sharing an edge with a carbonate triangle. The FBUs polymerize to form chains running parallel to the a axis. The chains are further polymerized to compose heteropolyhedral sheets stuffed by Ca2+ and Na+ cations and H2O groups to form electroneutral layers parallel to (001). The adjacent layers are connected to each other via a complex system of hydrogen bonds. An interesting feature of the structure is a bidentate coordination of Mg2 atom by a CO3 group. The O14-Mg2-O16 angle is shortened from 90° (expected for a regular octahedron) to 60.46°, whereas the O14-C-O16 angle is shortened from 120° to 115.92°. Girvasite is the most structurally complex mineral among natural phosphate carbonates known to date. Its high structural complexity reflects its chemical complexity and high hydration state, which are the result of the specific geochemical and thermodynamic conditions of its formation (low-temperature and low-pressure interactions of phosphate-bearing solutions with primary dolomite carbonatites).