bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of simulation and experimental results for a model aqueous tert-butanol solution
Authors: Overduin S. D. , Patey G. N.
Published: July 2017

Molecular dynamics simulations are used to investigate the behavior of aqueous tert-butanol (TBA) solutions for a range of temperatures, using the CHARMM generalized force field (CGenFF) to model TBA and the TIP4P/2005 or TIP4P-Ew water model. Simulation results for the density, isothermal compressibility, constant pressure heat capacity, and self-diffusion coefficients are in good accord with experimental measurements. Agreement with the experiment is particularly good at low TBA concentration, where experiments have revealed anomalies in a number of thermodynamic properties. Importantly, the CGenFF model does not exhibit liquid-liquid demixing at temperatures between 290 and 320 K (for systems of 32 000 molecules), in contrast with the situation for several other common TBA models [R. Gupta and G. N. Patey, J. Chem. Phys. 137, 034509 (2012)]. However, whereas real water and TBA are miscible at all temperatures where the liquid is stable, we observe some evidence of demixing at 340 K and above. To evaluate the structural properties at low concentrations, we compare with both neutron scattering and recent spectroscopic measurements. This reveals that while the CGenFF model is a definite improvement over other models that have been considered, the TBA molecules still exhibit a tendency to associate at low concentrations that is somewhat stronger than that indicated by experiments. Finally, we discuss the range and decay times of the long-range correlations, providing an indication of the system size and simulation times that are necessary in order to obtain reliable results for certain properties.
Diffusion and reaction pathways of water near fully hydrated TiO2 surfaces from ab initio molecular dynamics
Authors: Agosta Lorenzo , Brandt Erik G. , Lyubartsev Alexander P.
Published: July 2017

Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations are reported for water-embedded TiO2 surfaces to determine the diffusive and reactive behavior at full hydration. A three-domain model is developed for six surfaces [rutile (110), (100), and (001), and anatase (101), (100), and (001)] which describes waters as “hard” (irreversibly bound to the surface), “soft” (with reduced mobility but orientation freedom near the surface), or “bulk.” The model explains previous experimental data and provides a detailed picture of water diffusion near TiO2 surfaces. Water reactivity is analyzed with a graph-theoretic approach that reveals a number of reaction pathways on TiO2 which occur at full hydration, in addition to direct water splitting. Hydronium (H3O+) is identified to be a key intermediate state, which facilitates water dissociation by proton hopping between intact and dissociated waters near the surfaces. These discoveries significantly improve the understanding of nanoscale water dynamics and reactivity at TiO2 interfaces under ambient conditions.
Terahertz radiation with high power and high efficiency in a magnetized plasma
Authors: Bakhtiari Farhad , Esmaeilzadeh Mahdi , Ghafary Bijan
Published: July 2017

We propose a scheme for the generation of terahertz (THz) radiation in a plasma by beating of two flat-topped laser beams when a static magnetic field is applied to the plasma with a parallel or perpendicular direction. We show that the presence of a static magnetic field can enhance drastically the power and efficiency of THz radiation. The power and efficiency enhancement of the perpendicular magnetic field is greater than that of parallel one. Furthermore, the perpendicular magnetic field produces THz radiation with a square shaped field profile which has many applications in industries especially in optical communication. Optimizing the laser beams and magnetized plasma parameters and considering the interaction (mutual effect) between laser beams, THz radiation, and plasma, the THz radiation efficiency up to 8.3% can be obtained. A comparison between the THz radiation generated by flat-topped and super Gaussian laser beams shows that, at the same conditions, the THz radiation generated by flat-topped beam lasers has some advantages such as about two times wider flat-topped region and more than two times higher efficiency.
Anisotropic relaxation behavior of InGaAs/GaAs selectively grown in narrow trenches on (001) Si substrates
Authors: Guo W. , Mols Y. , Belz J. , Beyer A. , Volz K. , Schulze A. , Langer R. , Kunert B.
Published: July 2017

Selective area growth of InGaAs inside highly confined trenches on a pre-patterned (001) Si substrate has the potential of achieving a high III-V crystal quality due to high aspect ratio trapping for improved device functionalities in Si microelectronics. If the trench width is in the range of the hetero-layer thickness, the relaxation mechanism of the mismatched III-V layer is no longer isotropic, which has a strong impact on the device fabrication and performance if not controlled well. The hetero-epitaxial nucleation of InxGa1-xAs on Si can be simplified by using a binary nucleation buffer such as GaAs. A pronounced anisotropy in strain release was observed for the growth of InxGa1-xAs on a fully relaxed GaAs buffer with a (001) surface inside 20 and 100 nm wide trenches, exploring the full composition range from GaAs to InAs. Perpendicular to the trench orientation (direction of high confinement), the strain release in InxGa1-xAs is very efficiently caused by elastic relaxation without defect formation, although a small compressive force is still induced by the trench side walls. In contrast, the strain release along the trenches is governed by plastic relaxation once the vertical film thickness has clearly exceeded the critical layer thickness. On the other hand, the monolithic deposition of mismatched InxGa1-xAs directly into a V-shaped trench bottom with {111} Si planes leads instantly to a pronounced nucleation of misfit dislocations along the {111} Si/III-V interfaces. In this case, elastic relaxation no longer plays a role as the strain release is ensured by plastic relaxation in both directions. Hence, using a ternary seed layer facilitates the integration of InxGa1-xAs covering the full composition range.
The effect of surface adsorption on tertiary structure formation in helical polymers
Authors: Williams Matthew J. , Bachmann Michael
Published: July 2017

The formation of tertiary structures made up of helical polymer segments is influenced by the introduction of an attractive substrate onto which the polymer can adsorb. We perform replica-exchange Monte Carlo simulations to study the formation of helical structures in the vicinity of an attractive generic substrate by means of a coarse-grained hybrid model and compare the structural phase space for both adsorbed and free helical polymers. We introduce suitable structural order parameters to understand the features of distinct structural phases. Hyperphase diagrams, parameterized by the torsional energy scale and temperature, enable the investigation of structural properties of entire classes of helical polymers.
Instability of gas-surrounded Rayleigh viscous jets: Weakly nonlinear analysis and numerical simulation
Authors: Xie Luo , Yang Li-jun , Ye Han-yu
Published: July 2017

The instability of gas-surrounded Rayleigh viscous jets is investigated analytically and numerically in this paper. Theoretical analysis is based on a second-order perturbation expansion for capillary jets with surface disturbances, while the axisymmetric two-dimensional, two-phase simulation is conducted by applying the Gerris code for jets subjected to velocity disturbances. The relation between the initial surface and velocity disturbance amplitude was obtained according to the derivation of Moallemi et al. [“Breakup of capillary jets with different disturbances,” Phys. Fluids 28, 012101 (2016)], and the breakup lengths resulting from these two disturbances agree well. Analytical and numerical breakup profiles also coincide satisfactorily, except in the vicinity of the breakup point, which shrinks forcefully. The effects of various parameters (i.e., oscillation frequency, Reynolds number, Weber number, and gas-to-liquid density ratio) have also been examined by comparing spatial growth rate, second-order disturbance amplitude, breakup length, and the breakup profiles at low frequency, where obvious satellite droplets form, versus different parameters. In addition, the competition between Rayleigh instability and Kelvin-Helmholtz instability has been examined using an energy approach.
Extended metastable Al solubility in cubic VAlN by metal-ion bombardment during pulsed magnetron sputtering: film stress vs subplantation
Authors: Greczynski G. , Mráz S. , Ruess H. , Hans M. , Lu J. , Hultman L. , Schneider J. M.
Published: July 2017

Dynamic ion-recoil mixing of near-film-surface atomic layers is commonly used to increase the metastable solubility limit xmax in otherwise immiscible thin film systems during physical vapor deposition. Recently, Al subplantation achieved by irradiating the film growth surface with Al+ metal-ion flux was shown to result in an unprecedented xmax for VAlN, far above values obtained with gas ion irradiation. However, it is reasonable to assume that ion irradiation necessary for subplantation also leads to a compressive stress σ buildup. In order to separate the effects of Al+ bombardment on σ and xmax, and realize low-stress high-xmax nitride alloys, we grow metastable cubic V1-xAlxN (0.17 ≤ x ≤ 0.74) films using reactive magnetron sputtering under different ion irradiation conditions. Al and V targets are operated in Ar/N2 discharges employing (i) conventional DC (Ar+, N2+), (ii) hybrid High-power pulsed magnetron sputtering (HIPIMS)/DC processing with one type of metal ion present (Al+ or V+/V2+), and (iii) HIPIMS with concurrent Al+ and V+/V2+ fluxes. Comparison to the ab initio calculated Al solubility limit reveals that xmax = 0.55 achieved with V+/V2+ irradiation is entirely accountable for by stress. In contrast, Al+ fluxes provide a substantial increase in xmax to 0.63, which is 12% higher than that expected based on the stress-induced increase in metastable solubility. Correlative stress and atom probe tomography data confirm that the metastable Al solubility enhancement is enabled by Al+ subplantation. The here proposed processing strategy allows for growth of single-phase cubic nitride alloys with significantly increased Al concentrations embodying tremendous promise for substantial improvements in high temperature oxidation resistance and mitigates the risk of stress-induced adhesive or cohesive coating failure.
An X-band theory of electromagnetic interference shielding for graphene-polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Xia Xiaodong , Mazzeo Aaron D. , Zhong Zheng , Weng George J.
Published: July 2017

Several experiments have revealed that the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) of graphene-polymer nanocomposites in the X-band range is dependent on the AC frequency and graphene loading, but at present, no related theory seems to exist. In this paper, we develop an effective-medium theory that also considers the interface effects, percolation threshold, electron tunneling, Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars polarizations, Dyre's frequency-assisted electron hopping, and Debye's dielectric relaxation, to calculate the electrical conductivity, dielectric permittivity, and magnetic permeability of the nanocomposites. We then implement these properties into Maxwell's equations for a plane wave to address this issue. To provide the EMI SE over the X-band, the effective-medium theory is written in the complex setting, with the complex electrical conductivity and real magnetic permeability as the homogenization variables. We highlight the developed theory with applications to reduced graphene oxide/polystyrene nanocomposites, and show that the predicted EMI SEs are in close agreement with the measured data in the 8.2–12.4 GHz range at the graphene loadings of 0.87, 1.95, and 3.47 vol. %. We also show that the effective conductivity increases markedly in the high frequency range, while the dielectric permittivity decreases to a very low value. The EMI SE is found to increase with the conductivity and permeability, but weakly decrease with the permittivity. To provide the sources of shielding, the separate contributions from multiple-reflection loss, absorption loss, and reflection loss, to the overall EMI SE of the nanocomposite are also illustrated.
A sandwiched buffer layer enabling pulsed ultraviolet- and visible-laser annealings for direct fabricating poly-Si field-effect transistors on the polyimide
Authors: Kao Ming-Hsuan , Huang Wen-Hsien , Shieh Jia-Min , Shen Chang-Hong , Lee Pei-Kang , Wang Hsing-Hsiang , Yang Chih-Chao , Hsieh Tung-Ying , Yu Peichen
Published: July 2017

A sandwiched buffer layer of SiO2/Al/SiO2 enables ultraviolet-laser crystallization and visible-laser activation for direct fabrication of a poly-Si flexible field-effect-transistor (fFET) on polyimides. The buffer layer can produce heat accumulation and laser reflection from the Al/SiO2 interface to facilitate grain growth and contact resistance reduction of poly-Si without damaging the polyimide substrate. The feature size of poly-Si fFET has shrunk to 400 nm via laser annealing, with the on/off current-ratio exceeding 5 × 106 and a subthreshold swing of 190 mV/dec. Moreover, the transfer characteristics of fFET by tension stress can be maintained until the bending radius reaches over 15 mm.
Enhanced truncated-correlation photothermal coherence tomography with application to deep subsurface defect imaging and 3-dimensional reconstructions
Authors: Tavakolian Pantea , Sivagurunathan Koneswaran , Mandelis Andreas
Published: July 2017

Photothermal diffusion-wave imaging is a promising technique for non-destructive evaluation and medical applications. Several diffusion-wave techniques have been developed to produce depth-resolved planar images of solids and to overcome imaging depth and image blurring limitations imposed by the physics of parabolic diffusion waves. Truncated-Correlation Photothermal Coherence Tomography (TC-PCT) is the most successful class of these methodologies to-date providing 3-D subsurface visualization with maximum depth penetration and high axial and lateral resolution. To extend the depth range and axial and lateral resolution, an in-depth analysis of TC-PCT, a novel imaging system with improved instrumentation, and an optimized reconstruction algorithm over the original TC-PCT technique is developed. Thermal waves produced by a laser chirped pulsed heat source in a finite thickness solid and the image reconstruction algorithm are investigated from the theoretical point of view. 3-D visualization of subsurface defects utilizing the new TC-PCT system is reported. The results demonstrate that this method is able to detect subsurface defects at the depth range of ∼4 mm in a steel sample, which exhibits dynamic range improvement by a factor of 2.6 compared to the original TC-PCT. This depth does not represent the upper limit of the enhanced TC-PCT. Lateral resolution in the steel sample was measured to be ∼31 μm.
Anomalous Seebeck coefficient observed in silicon nanowire micro thermoelectric generator
Authors: Hashimoto S. , Asada S. , Xu T. , Oba S. , Himeda Y. , Yamato R. , Matsukawa T. , Matsuki T. , Watanabe T.
Published: July 2017

We have found experimentally an anomalous thermoelectric characteristic of an n-type Si nanowire micro thermoelectric generator (μTEG). The μTEG is fabricated on a silicon-on-insulator wafer by electron beam lithography and dry etching, and its surface is covered with a thermally grown silicon dioxide film. The observed thermoelectric current is opposite to what is expected from the Seebeck coefficient of n-type Si. The result is understandable by considering a potential barrier in the nanowire. Upon the application of the temperature gradient across the nanowire, the potential barrier impedes the diffusion of thermally activated majority carriers into the nanowire, and it rather stimulates the injection of thermally generated minority carriers. The most plausible origin of the potential barrier is negative charges trapped at the interface between the Si nanowire and the oxide film. We practically confirmed that the normal Seebeck coefficient of the n-type Si nanowire is recovered after the hydrogen forming gas annealing. This implies that the interface traps are diminished by the hydrogen termination of bonding defects. The present results show the importance of the surface inactivation treatment of μTEGs to suppress the potential barrier and unfavorable contribution of minority carriers.
Prolonged spin relaxation time in Zn-doped GaAs/GaAsP strain-compensated superlattice
Authors: Ohki Shunsuke , Jin Xiuguang , Ishikawa Tomoki , Kamezaki Takuya , Yamada Kizuku , Muto Shunichi , Tackeuchi Atsushi
Published: July 2017

A GaAs/GaAsP strain-compensated superlattice (SL) is a highly promising spin-polarized electron source. To realize higher quantum efficiency, it is necessary to consider spin relaxation mechanisms. We have investigated the electron spin relaxation time in a Zn-doped GaAs/GaAsP strain-compensated SL by time-resolved spin-dependent pump and probe reflection measurements. The long spin relaxation time of 104 ps was observed at room temperature (RT), which is about three times longer than that of conventional undoped GaAs multiple quantum wells. Even when the excitation power increases from 30 to 110 mW, the change in the spin relaxation time at RT was small. This relationship implies that the intensity of the electron beam can be increased without affecting the spin relaxation time. These results indicate that a Zn-doped GaAs/GaAsP strain-compensated SL has the great advantage for use as a spin-polarized electron source.
Probing domain switching dynamics in ferroelectric thick films by small field e31,f piezoelectric measurement
Authors: Cheng Hongbo , Ouyang Jun , Kanno Isaku
Published: July 2017

Epitaxial Pb(Zr0.53Ti0.47)O3 films were grown on (001) Pt/(001) MgO via rf-magnetron sputtering. Switching dynamics of 90° and 180° domains under bi-polar electric fields were probed by using small-field e31,f measurements in which the evolution of the transverse piezoelectric response with the bias voltage represents a set of fingerprints of the evolving domain structure. Furthermore, the asymmetric e31,f−V curves revealed a strong built-in electric field, which was verified by the standard polarization-electric field hysteresis measurement. Finally, X-ray 2θ-scan patterns under DC bias voltages were collected for the piezoelectric specimen. The domain switching sequence indicated by the XRD results is consistent with that revealed by the e31,f measurement.
Attention model of binocular rivalry
Authors: Li Hsin-Hung , Rankin James , Rinzel John , Carrasco Marisa , Heeger David J.
Published: July 2017

Significance

Binocular rivalry provides a unique opportunity to characterize intrinsic neural dynamics of cortical processing. A computational model was developed as a parsimonious explanation of the empirical phenomena of rivalry for which there was no previous explanation. The key idea in the model is that rivalry relies on interactions between sensory processing and attentional modulation with distinct dynamics and selectivity. Bifurcation theory was used to identify the parameter regime in which the behavior of the model was consistent with empirical findings. The model explained a wide range of phenomena, including (
i
) that binocular rivalry requires attention, (
ii
) that different perceptual states emerge when the two images are swapped between the eyes, and (
iii
) how dominance duration changes as a function of stimulus input strength.
Combined epigenetic and differentiation-based treatment inhibits neuroblastoma tumor growth and links HIF2α to tumor suppression
Authors: Westerlund Isabelle , Shi Yao , Toskas Konstantinos , Fell Stuart M. , Li Shuijie , Surova Olga , Södersten Erik , Kogner Per , Nyman Ulrika , Schlisio Susanne , Holmberg Johan
Published: July 2017

Significance

High-risk neuroblastoma remains a therapeutic challenge, and adjuvant retinoic acid (RA) treatment shows poor efficacy. We demonstrate that combined treatment with 5-Aza-deoxycytidine (AZA) and RA impedes neuroblastoma growth and induces a transcriptional response characterized by high levels of the HIF2α transcription factor. This approach targets high-risk neuroblastoma that responds poorly to RA. In addition, genome-wide analysis of treated tumors and patient data links HIF2α to tumor suppression, which is supported by a HIF2α-specific small molecule inhibitor-mediated block of the tumor response to AZA+RA treatment.
Interannual cycles of Hantaan virus outbreaks at the human–animal interface in Central China are controlled by temperature and rainfall
Authors: Tian Huaiyu , Yu Pengbo , Cazelles Bernard , Xu Lei , Tan Hua , Yang Jing , Huang Shanqian , Xu Bo , Cai Jun , Ma Chaofeng , Wei Jing , Li Shen , Qu Jianhui , Laine Marko , Wang Jingjun , Tong Shilu , Stenseth Nils Chr. , Xu Bing
Published: July 2017

Significance

Interannual cycles of many zoonotic diseases are considered to be driven by climate variability. However, the role of climate forcing in the modulation of zoonotic dynamics has been highly controversial, chiefly due to the difficulty in quantifying the links between climate forcing, animal population dynamics, and disease dynamics. Here, we address this issue by using a unique field surveillance dataset from Central China, covering one-half century. Our results shed light on the drivers behind interannual variability and the dynamic patterns of disease ecology, and the links between interannual climate variability and the human–animal interface, adding up to 3-mo lead time over outbreak warnings.
Functional characterization of odorant receptors in the ponerine ant,
Harpegnathos saltator
Authors: Slone Jesse D. , Pask Gregory M. , Ferguson Stephen T. , Millar Jocelyn G. , Berger Shelley L. , Reinberg Danny , Liebig Jürgen , Ray Anandasankar , Zwiebel Laurence J.
Published: July 2017

Significance

The tuning of odorant receptors to their particular odorants is crucial for better understanding of how olfactory cues mediate ant social interactions. To help decode the olfactory system of ants, a selection of odorant receptors (ORs) from several phylogenetically distinct subfamilies from the ponerine ant
Harpegnathos saltator
were tested against a panel of ant semiochemicals. Responses were observed to both cuticular hydrocarbon components, some of which are known pheromones, and “general odorants,” demonstrating broad coverage of these odor spaces across several subfamilies of receptors. These results do not align with currently held hypotheses of OR subfamily odor coding and provide further insight into the evolution of pheromone perception within ant clades and the role this plays in complex social behaviors.
Genomic architecture of biomass heterosis in
Arabidopsis
Authors: Yang Mei , Wang Xuncheng , Ren Diqiu , Huang Hao , Xu Miqi , He Guangming , Deng Xing Wang
Published: July 2017

Significance

Heterosis, the phenotypic superiority of a hybrid over its parents, has been extensively exploited in agriculture to improve biomass and yield. Despite its great agricultural importance, the genetic components underlying heterosis remain largely unclear. Here, we characterize the genomic architecture of heterosis in
Arabidopsis
that have not undergone domestication and identify hundreds of genetic loci that collectively contribute to biomass heterosis using genome-wide association studies. The functional investigation of candidate genes and transcriptomic analysis in representative hybrids suggest that the accumulation of superior genes involved in basic biological processes and the repression of stimulus-responsive genes in hybrids contribute to biomass heterosis in
Arabidopsis
, thus providing a comprehensive understanding of the genetic bases of heterosis in natural populations of plant species.
Inhibition of the integrated stress response reverses cognitive deficits after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Chou Austin , Krukowski Karen , Jopson Timothy , Zhu Ping Jun , Costa-Mattioli Mauro , Walter Peter , Rosi Susanna
Published: July 2017

Significance

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of long-term neurological disability and affects an ever-growing population. Currently, there are no effective treatments for patients suffering from chronic TBI-induced cognitive impairments. Here, we found that suppression of the integrated stress response (ISR) with a drug-like small-molecule inhibitor, ISRIB, rescued cognition in two TBI mouse models, even when administered weeks after injury. Consistent with the behavioral results, ISRIB restored long-term potentiation deficits observed in TBI mice. Our data suggest that targeting ISR activation could serve as a promising approach for the treatment of chronic cognitive dysfunction after TBI.
Influence of Temperature on the Efficacy of Homologous and Heterologous DNA Vaccines against Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia in Pacific Herring
Authors: Hart Lucas M. , Lorenzen Niels , Einer-Jensen Katja , Purcell Maureen K. , Hershberger Paul K.
Published: July 2017

Homologous and heterologous (genogroup Ia) DNA vaccines against viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (genogroup IVa) conferred partial protection in Pacific Herring Clupea pallasii. Early protection at 2 weeks postvaccination (PV) was low and occurred only at an elevated temperature (12.6°C, 189 degree days), where the relative percent survival following viral exposure was similar for the two vaccines (IVa and Ia) and higher than that of negative controls at the same temperature. Late protection at 10 weeks PV was induced by both vaccines but was higher with the homologous vaccine at both 9.0°C and 12.6°C. Virus neutralization titers were detected among 55% of all vaccinated fish at 10 weeks PV. The results suggest that the immune response profile triggered by DNA vaccination of herring was similar to that reported for Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss by Lorenzen and LaPatra in 2005, who found interferon responses in the early days PV and the transition to adaptive response later. However, the protective effect was far less prominent in herring, possibly reflecting different physiologies or adaptations of the two fish species.

Received August 1, 2016; accepted March 10, 2017 Published online July 11, 2017
The admission of the Caucasus states to the League of Nations: the role of Soviet Russia
Authors: Gzoyan Edita G.
Published: July 2017

This article deals with the issue of the admission of the three Caucasian republics – Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia – to the League of Nations. The attempts of the newly established republics to gain international recognition, security guarantees and protection by becoming a member of the League of Nations failed, largely because of the establishment of the Soviet regime in the three republics and the attitude of the League of Nations towards Bolshevism. The article also dwells upon the admission of the Baltic States and Ukraine to support its main argument about the role of Soviet Russia and the establishment of Bolshevik governments in the Caucasian republics in the process of joining the League. Soviet Russia had strong aspirations towards incorporating the territories formerly belonging to the Russian Empire, which ultimately played a key role in the international affairs of the young republics.
Breaching peripheral tolerance promotes the production of HIV-1–neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Schroeder Kristin M.S. , Agazio Amanda , Strauch Pamela J. , Jones Sean T. , Thompson Scott B. , Harper Michael S. , Pelanda Roberta , Santiago Mario L. , Torres Raul M.
Published: July 2017

A subset of characterized HIV-1 broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) are polyreactive with additional specificities for self-antigens and it has been proposed immunological tolerance may present a barrier to their participation in protective humoral immunity. We address this hypothesis by immunizing autoimmune-prone mice with HIV-1 Envelope (Env) and characterizing the primary antibody response for HIV-1 neutralization. We find autoimmune mice generate neutralizing antibody responses to tier 2 HIV-1 strains with alum treatment alone in the absence of Env. Importantly, experimentally breaching immunological tolerance in wild-type mice also leads to the production of tier 2 HIV-1–neutralizing antibodies, which increase in breadth and potency following Env immunization. In both genetically prone and experimentally induced mouse models of autoimmunity, increased serum levels of IgM anti-histone H2A autoantibodies significantly correlated with tier 2 HIV-1 neutralization, and anti-H2A antibody clones were found to neutralize HIV-1. These data demonstrate that breaching peripheral tolerance permits a cross-reactive HIV-1 autoantibody response able to neutralize HIV-1.
Grain and Nutritional Quality Traits of Southwestern U.S. Blue Maize Landraces
Authors: Nankar Amol , Holguin F. Omar , Scott M. Paul , Pratt Richard C.
Published: July 2017

Anthocyanin‐rich Southwestern blue maize (Zea mays L.) landraces are receiving interest as functional foods, and commercial production is increasing. We determined variation in kernel color, anthocyanin content, texture, and selected compositional traits of representative varieties. In 2013, eight varieties were grown at four locations in New Mexico. Total kernel anthocyanin content (TAC) and component pigments were measured with spectrophotometry and HPLC, respectively. Oil, protein, starch, and kernel density were determined using NIR spectroscopy and amino acid concentrations using wet chemistry. An average of 49.6 mg/100 g of TAC with a range of 17.6–65.1 mg/100 g was observed. Cyanidin and pelargonidin were major components, and peonidin and succinyl 3‐glucoside were minor components. Low levels of disuccinyl glucoside were detected. Blue kernels were higher in anthocyanin than purple or red kernels. Floury kernels displayed the highest protein and oil contents and the lowest starch content and kernel density. The highest starch and kernel density levels were observed in small flint/dent and pop‐flint/dent kernels. Amino acid content was variable across genotypes and locations.
Starch–Hydrocolloid Interaction in Chemically Leavened Gluten‐Free Sorghum Bread
Authors: Ari Akin Pervin , Miller Rebecca A.
Published: July 2017

A satisfactory chemically leavened gluten‐free sorghum bread method was developed by using a blend of 90% commercially milled sorghum flour and 10% rice, tapioca, or potato starch as the “flour.” The most effective starch/hydrocolloid combinations in the formula were potato starch with 4% xanthan, tapioca starch with 3% hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and rice starch with 3% xanthan. Overall, there was not a significant difference in the quality of loaves made with each starch/hydrocolloid combination. Rapid visco analysis showed that batter viscosity did not have a significant impact on loaf volume index but did affect crumb grain properties. Batters with lower viscosity produced loaves with better crumb grain.
Estimating Gestational Age From Ultrasound Fetal Biometrics
Authors: Skupski Daniel W. , Owen John , Kim Sungduk , Fuchs Karin M. , Albert Paul S. , Grantz Katherine L. ,   for the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Fetal Growth Studies
Published: July 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the accuracy of a new formula with one developed in 1984 (and still in common use) and to develop and compare racial and ethnic-specific and racial and ethnic-neutral formulas.

METHODS:

The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Fetal Growth Studies-Singletons was a prospective cohort study that recruited women in four self-reported racial–ethnic groups—non-Hispanic black, Hispanic, non-Hispanic white, and Asian—with singleton gestations from 12 U.S. centers (2009–2013). Women with a certain last menstrual period confirmed by first-trimester ultrasonogram had longitudinal fetal measurements by credentialed study ultrasonographers blinded to the gestational age at their five follow-up visits. Regression analyses were performed with linear mixed models to develop gestational age estimating formulas. Repeated cross-validation was used for validation. The estimation error was defined as the mean squared difference between the estimated and observed gestational age and was used to compare the formulas' accuracy.

RESULTS:

The new formula estimated the gestational age (±2 SD) within ±7 days from 14 to 20 weeks of gestation, ±10 days from 21 to 27 weeks of gestation, and ±17 days from 28 to 40 weeks of gestation. The new formula performed significantly better than a formula developed in 1984 with an estimation error of 10.4 compared with 11.2 days from 21 to 27 weeks of gestation and 17.0 compared with 19.8 days at 28–40 weeks of gestation, respectively. Racial and ethnic-specific formulas did not outperform the racial and ethnic-neutral formula.

CONCLUSION:

The NICHD gestational age estimation formula is associated with smaller errors than a well-established historical formula. Racial and ethnic-specific formulas are not superior to a racial–ethnic-neutral one.
Posterior Fracture Dislocation of the Shoulder: A Modified McLaughlin Procedure
Authors: Konda Sanjit R. , Fisher Nina , Gage Mark , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

Bilateral posterior fracture dislocation is a rare injury commonly associated with seizures. When the humeral head defect (reverse Hill–Sachs lesion) is between 20% and 45%, operative fixation using a modified McLaughlin procedure is recommended. This video demonstrates a case of bilateral posterior fracture dislocation after a drug-induced seizure treated with a modified McLaughlin procedure.

Methods:

The original McLaughlin procedure involved transfer of the subscapularis tendon from the lesser tuberosity to the reverse Hill–Sachs defect. However, the modified McLaughlin procedure is more commonly described in the literature as of late and involved the transfer of the lesser tuberosity along with the subscapularis.

Results:

This video demonstrates the modified McLaughlin technique for a posterior fracture dislocation. Computerized tomography confirms the articular impression fractures of the proximal humerus. Through a deltopectoral approach, the lesser tuberosity along with the subscapularis tendon was transferred into the defect.

Conclusions:

The modified McLaughlin procedure demonstrates excellent clinical and radiographic results after posterior fracture dislocation of the shoulder with a reverse Hill–Sachs lesion between 25% and 45%.
Suture Repair of a Pole Patella Fracture
Authors: Swensen Stephanie , Fisher Nina , Atanda Abiola , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

Operative fixation of displaced patella fractures is considered to be standard of care. However, patients with inferior pole patella fractures have limited options in terms of fixation. This video demonstrates the repair of an inferior pole patella fracture using nonabsorbable suture fixation.

Methods:

Suture repair of patella fractures is a clinically acceptable technique, yielding similar functional results to patella fractures treated with K-wires or cannulated screws while reducing the rates of removal of hardware after fixation.

Results:

This video features the repair of a displaced, comminuted inferior pole patella fracture using 5 Ethibond and Fiberwire. Postoperative radiographs confirm bony union.

Conclusions:

Suture fixation for pole patella fractures provides reliable fixation and reduces the risk of postoperative complications secondary to hardware irritation. This case highlights the success of this technique.
Vasomotor hot flashes and cardiac repolarization: a randomized placebo-controlled trial of postmenopausal hormone therapy
Authors: Lantto Hanna , Haapalahti Petri , Viitasalo Matti , Väänänen Heikki , Sovijärvi Anssi R.A. , Ylikorkala Olavi , Mikkola Tomi S.
Published: July 2017

Objective:

The aim of the study was to compare the effects of different hormone therapies on cardiac repolarization in recently postmenopausal women with and without hot flashes.

Methods:

We recruited 150 healthy women: 72 with and 78 without hot flashes. They were randomized and treated for 6 months with transdermal estradiol (1 mg/day), oral estradiol (OE) alone (2 mg/day) or combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA; 5 mg/day), or placebo. Cardiac repolarization was assessed by measuring QT intervals, rate-dependence of QT-end interval, and T waves from 24-hour electrocardiographic recording before and during hormone therapy, comprising a total of over 20 million QT-interval measurements.

Results:

Hot flashes were accompanied with shortened median T-peak – T-end interval (at RR interval of 700, 800, and 900 ms; P = 0.040, 0.020, and 0.032; η2 = 0.35, 0.39, and 0.37; respectively) during the use of OE but not transdermal estradiol. In contrast, the addition of MPA to OE lengthened the maximal QT-end (at RR interval of 500 ms, P = 0.016, η2 = 0.27) and the maximal T-peak – T-end interval (at RR interval of 500 and 600 ms; P = 0.016 and 0.032; η2 = 0.25 and 0.22, respectively). These effects were not seen in women without hot flashes.

Conclusions:

Hot flashes predict beneficial shortening in cardiac repolarization during OE, but not if MPA is combined with OE. These data may provide one explanation for MPA-related cardiac hazards in epidemiological studies.
Impact of age at first childbirth on primary open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Park Sangshin , Choi Nam-Kyong
Published: July 2017

Objective:

No studies have addressed the relationship between the timing of first childbirth and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The aim of the study was to identify the relationship between age at first childbirth and POAG and to examine the contribution of parity to the age at first childbirth–POAG relationship in postmenopausal women.

Methods:

The study population comprised postmenopausal women aged 50 or above in the cross-sectional Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2010 to 2012. Participants were grouped into quintiles by age at first childbirth for analysis. This study used logistic regression and mediation analyses with accommodations for the complex sampling structure of the survey.

Results:

Of the 4,057 women in the study population, the mean age at first childbirth was 23.7 years, and POAG prevalence was 3.4%. Prevalence of POAG was lowest in women whose first childbirth was between the ages of 27 and 44 (1.8%). Their risk for POAG (odds ratio [OR], 0.25; 95% CI, 0.10-0.65) was significantly lower than in those whose first childbirth was between the ages of 13 and 20, after adjustments for covariates. Late first delivery (≥27 y) was directly (OR, 0.57) and totally (OR, 0.85) associated with the decreased risk of POAG; decreased parity in women who delivered their first child at an older age attenuated the age at first childbirth–POAG relationship (OR of indirect effect, 1.50).

Conclusions:

First childbirth at the age of 27 years or above decreases the risk of POAG in postmenopausal women. Decreased parity, caused by late first childbirth, attenuated the magnitude of the total effects of age at first childbirth on POAG.
Propranolol treatment prevents chronic central sensitization induced by repeated dural stimulation
Authors: Boyer Nelly , Signoret-Genest Jérémy , Artola Alain , Dallel Radhouane , Monconduit Lénaïc
Published: July 2017

Migraine is currently conceptualized as a chronic disease with episodic manifestations. In some patients, migraine attack frequency increases, leading to chronic migraine. Daily preventive therapy is initiated to decrease attack frequency. Propranolol, a first-line medication for migraine prophylaxis, reduces attack frequency in nearly 50% of patients receiving it. However, the mechanisms of its antimigraine action are unclear. We examined the effect of daily propranolol treatment (10 mg·kg−1 per os, 8 days) in a rat model of recurrent activation of dural nociceptors (repeated infusion of an inflammatory soup (IS) on the dura through a cannula every 2-3 days). Propranolol does not abort IS-induced acute cephalic mechanical allodynia but blocks the development of a chronic cutaneous hypersensitivity upon repeated IS injections. Furthermore, propranolol prevents (1) the elevated touch-evoked Fos expression within the trigeminocervical complex, (2) enhanced both spontaneous activity, and evoked responses of second-order trigeminovascular neurons, (3) elevated touch-evoked rostral ventromedial medulla and locus coeruleus Fos expression and (4) diffuse noxious inhibitory controls impairment, induced by repeated IS injections. Our results suggest that propranolol exerts its prophylactic action, at least in part, by blocking the chronic sensitization of descending controls of pain, arising from the rostral ventromedial medulla and locus coeruleus, and in turn preventing the maintenance of a state of facilitated trigeminovascular transmission within the trigeminocervical complex. Assessing changes in these brain areas has the potential to elucidate the mechanisms for migraine transformation and to reveal novel biological and molecular targets for specific migraine-preventive therapies.
Rock Climbing–Related Bone Marrow Edema of the Hand: A Follow-up Study
Authors: Lutter Christoph , Hochholzer Thomas , Bayer Thomas , Schöffl Volker
Published: July 2017

Objective:

Sport climbers strain passive and active anatomical structures of their hands and fingers to the maximum during training or competition. This study was designed to investigate bone marrow edema (BME) in rock climbing athletes.

Design:

Systematic detection, treatment, and follow-up investigation of rock climbing athletes with BME of the hand.

Setting:

Primary-level orthopedic surgery and sports medicine division of a large academic medical center.

Patients:

Thirty-one high-level climbers with diffuse pain in the hand and wrist joint caused by rock climbing were included in this study.

Interventions:

The therapy consisted of consequent stress reduction and a break from sports.

Main Outcome Measures:

Reduction of BME shown through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and regaining of preinjury climbing levels (Union Internationale des Associations d' Alpinisme metric scale).

Results:

In 28 patients, MRI revealed osseous edema because of overload at the respective area of interest, mainly in the distal radius, the distal ulna, or the carpal bones, which could not be otherwise diagnosed as inflammations, tumors, or injuries. We classified these edemas and fractures of the hamate because of overload. The edema was a stress reaction to highly intensive training and climbing with presumably high traction to the wrist area. The control MRIs demonstrated that even with a consequent stress reduction, the edemas required 3 to 4 months to disappear completely.

Conclusions:

Climbers with nonspecific, diffuse pain in the wrist and/or the fingers should be examined with MRI to detect or exclude the diagnosis of a BME.
The Role of Preoperative Steroids in Atraumatic Cochlear Implantation Surgery
Authors: Lo Jonathon , Campbell Luke , Sale Phillip , Chambers Scott , Hampson Amy , Eastwood Hayden , O’Leary Stephen
Published: July 2017

Hypothesis:

Depth of insertion is related to the extent of tissue response and low frequency hearing loss. Intravenous steroids have greatest effect in reducing postimplantation fibrosis and hearing loss in the presence of significant electrode insertion trauma, when compared with saline treatment.

Background:

Experiments exploring the enhancement of cochlear implantation (CI) outcomes with glucocorticosteroids have produced mixed results, possibly due to lack of standardization of the CI model.

Methods:

Forty-eight normal-hearing guinea pigs were randomly implanted with a highly flexible electrode to a depth of 1.5, 3.0, or 5.0 mm. For each insertion depth, sub-cohorts received either intravenous saline (“saline”) or dexamethasone (“steroid”) 60 minutes before implantation. Shifts in electrocochleography thresholds at 2 to 32 kHz were determined before and 4 weeks after implantation. Cochleae were harvested and imaged.

Results:

Low-frequency hearing loss was greatest with 5.0 mm insertions. Fracture of the osseous spiral lamina and/or fibrotic involvement of the round window membrane exacerbated hearing loss. The extent of intracochlear fibrosis was directly related to the depth of insertion. Steroids reduced the intracochlear tissue response for deepest insertions and in apical regions of the cochlea where basilar membrane contact was prevalent. Steroids preserved no more hearing than saline at all insertion depths.

Conclusion:

Cochlear trauma influenced postimplantation hearing loss and steroid effect on fibrosis. Fibrosis, and to a lesser extent, postimplantation hearing loss increased proportionally to the depth of insertion. Steroids did not influence fibrosis relating to the cochleostomy, but could reduce scarring as the electrode negotiated the hook region or near the electrode tip.
Transcutaneous Endoscopic Necrosectomy for Walled-off Pancreatic Necrosis in the Paracolic Gutter
Authors: Saumoy Monica , Kumta Nikhil A. , Tyberg Amy , Brown Elizabeth , Lieberman Micheal D. , Eachempati Soumitra R. , Winokur Ronald S. , Gaidhane Monica , Sharaiha Reem Z. , Kahaleh Michel
Published: July 2017

Background:

Walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WON) is a sequelae of acute pancreatitis that requires debridement, once infected. Recently, endoscopic necrosectomy has become the mainstay for management. However, peripancreatic collections that extend to the paracolic gutter or lesser sac, are more challenging to treat endoscopically. We report an endoscopic method for management of necrotic collections that extend into the paracolic gutter.

Methods:

Consecutive patients, with symptomatic WON extending into the retroperitoneum, were included in a prospective registry. Each patient underwent transcutaneous endoscopic necrosectomy (TEN) through a fully covered self-expanding esophageal metal stent. After resolution of the collection, the external stent was removed, and the cutaneous fistula was allowed to close by secondary intention. Clinical success was defined as resolution of the WON, and successful removal of all percutaneous drains. Patient demographics, procedural/periprocedural adverse events, and follow-up data, were collected.

Results:

Nine patients underwent direct TEN. Patients initially underwent CT-guided percutaneous drainage, with an average of 31 days between initial drainage and endoscopic necrosectomy. All patients had a technically successful placement of a fully covered esophageal metal stent through the cutaneous fistula. After a median of 3 endoscopic debridement sessions, 8 of 9 (89%) patients had successful removal of all percutaneous drains, and resolution of necrotic collections. One patient died of multisystem organ failure from severe acute pancreatitis.

Conclusions:

TEN for infected WON is a safe and efficacious technique for patients with endoscopically inaccessible collections.