bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental stability and environmental stress: A geometric morphometrics analysis of asymmetry in the human femur
Authors: Mopin Clémence , Chaumoître Kathia , Signoli Michel , Adalian Pascal
Published: September 2018

Objectives

The evaluation of developmental stability (DS) by measuring fluctuating asymmetry (FA), a bioindicator of general cumulative stress, is an approach that has often been used to characterize health status in past populations. New techniques of geometric morphometrics now enable a better appreciation of FA than before, with a more refined quantification of variation. The aim of our study is to determine the effectiveness of geometric morphometrics analyses of asymmetry in the human femur for the study of individual DS and inferring health status of human populations.

Materials and methods

We conducted a comparative analysis between two diachronic populations of distinct and known health status. Two samples of 70 pairs of adult femurs from individuals of comparable age range and sex were selected and CT‐scanned. For each 3D reconstruction, two sets of 27 landmarks were digitized to quantify and minimize the effect of measurement error on the evaluation of FA.

Results

While the measurement of FA in femoral centroid size seemed comparable between the samples, the amount of FA in femoral shape differed. Individuals who experienced high levels of environmental stress presented higher intra‐individual variation. In parallel, results did not reveal any significant differences in DS between sexes or age groups.

Discussion

The geometric morphometrics analysis of femoral asymmetry was effective for distinguishing two populations. After considering various factors of influence, genetics and biomechanics seem to have a limited impact on the results. Expressing FA appears to be normal but dependent on the disturbances of DS produced by environmental stress.
High dielectric, low curing with high thermally stable renewable eugenol‐based polybenzoxazine matrices and nanocomposites
Authors: Krishnan S. , Arumugam H. , Chavali M. , Muthukaruppan A.
Published: September 2018

In the present work, a new type of bio‐based benzoxazines were prepared by using aniline, N, N‐dimethyl amino propyl amine (DMAPA) and caprolactam modified DMAPA with eugenol. The benzoxazines resulted were characterized for their molecular structure by Fourier transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The polymerization process of benzoxazines and their thermal behavior were studied by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. Moreover, the effect of chemical blending of the synthesized benzoxazines with conventional benzoxazines [bisphenol A benzoxazine (BPAb) and bisphenol F benzoxazine (BPFb)] and bismaleimide was studied to bring down the polymerization temperature by creating supplementary potential sites for polymerization. Furthermore, to reduce the polymerization temperature, the benzoxazines synthesized in the present study were partially incorporated with 10 wt % of catalysts (4‐hydroxy phenylmaleimide, 4‐amino phenol, and 4‐hydroxy acetophenone). The graphene reinforced polybenzoxazine composites were also prepared by incorporating varying weight percentages (1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 wt %) of graphene oxide to obtain hybrid nanocomposites. From the results obtained, it was observed that the polymerization temperature (Tp) was significantly reduced (more than 31 °C) in both the cases of blends of conventional BPAb and BPFb. It was also observed that the values of the dielectric constant of graphene reinforced hybrid composites are significantly enhanced. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47050.
Biases incurred from nonrandom repeat testing of haemoglobin levels in blood donors: Selective testing and its implications
Authors: Chung Ryan K. , Wood Angela M. , Sweeting Michael J.
Published: September 2018

To help prevent anaemia, it is a requisite for blood donors to undergo a haemoglobin test to ensure levels are not too low before donation. It is therefore important to have an accurate testing device and strategy to ensure donors are not being inappropriately bled. A recent study in blood donors used a selective testing strategy where if a donor's haemoglobin level is below the level required for donation, then another reading is taken and if this occurs again, a third and final reading is used. This strategy can reduce the average number of readings required per donor compared to taking three measurements for all donors. However, the final decision‐making measurement will on average be higher than a single measurement. In this paper, a selective testing strategy is compared against other strategies. Individual‐level biases are derived for the selective strategy and are shown to depend on how close a donor's true haemoglobin level is to the donation threshold and the magnitude of error in the testing device. A simulation study was conducted using the distribution of haemoglobin levels from a large donor population to investigate the effects different strategies have on population performance. We consider scenarios based on varying the measurement device bias and error, including differential biases that depend on the underlying haemoglobin level. Discriminatory performance is shown to be affected when using the selective testing strategies, especially when measurement error is large and when differential bias is present in the device. We recommend that the average of a number of readings should be used in preference to selective testing strategies if multiple measurements are available.
It is merely a matter of time: A meta‐analysis of the causality between environmental performance and financial performance
Authors: Hang Markus , Geyer‐Klingeberg Jerome , Rathgeber Andreas W.
Published: September 2018

Research on the relationship between corporate environmental performance (CEP) and financial performance (CFP) continuously receives high attention in both general media and academic publications. One central issue concerns the causal effects between the two constructs. Because existing primary literature is characterized by its heterogeneous study designs and mixed empirical evidence, the aim of this paper is to explicitly shed light on the causality effects between CEP and CFP by means of a meta‐analysis of 893 empirical estimates from 142 CEP–CFP studies. Our findings suggest that in the short run (1 year), financial resources can increase a firm's environmental performance as proposed by the slack resources hypothesis; however, the effects disappear in the long run (after more than 1 year). Conversely, increasing environmental performance has no short‐term effect on a corporate financial performance, whereas a firm significantly benefits in the long term, which is in accordance with the Porter hypothesis. Overall, our results show that the causality between environmental performance and financial performance depends on the time horizon.
Patient choice for high‐volume center radiation impacts head and neck cancer outcome
Authors: Naghavi Arash O. , Echevarria Michelle I. , Strom Tobin J. , Abuodeh Yazan A. , Venkat Puja S. , Ahmed Kamran A. , Demetriou Stephanie , Frakes Jessica M. , Kim Youngchul , Kish Julie A. , Russell Jeffery S. , Otto Kristen J. , Chung Christine H. , Harrison Louis B. , Trotti Andy , Caudell Jimmy J.
Published: September 2018

Background

Studies suggest treatment outcomes may vary between high (HVC)‐ and low‐volume centers (LVC). Radiation therapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC) requires weeks of treatment, the inconvenience of which may influence a patient's choice for treatment location. We hypothesized that receipt of RT for HNC at a HVC would influence outcomes compared to patients evaluated at a HVC, but who chose to receive RT at a LVC.

Methods

From 1998 to 2011, 1930 HNC patients were evaluated at a HVC and then treated with RT at either a HVC or LVC. Time‐to‐event outcomes and treatment factors were compared.

Results

Median follow‐up was 34 months. RT was delivered at a HVC for 1368 (71%) patients and at a LVC in 562 (29%). Patients were more likely to choose HVC‐RT if they resided in the HVC's county or required definitive RT (all P < 0.001). HVC‐RT was associated with a significant improvement in 3‐year LRC (84% vs 68%), DFS (68% vs 48%), and OS (72% vs 57%) (all P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis (MVA), HVC‐RT independently predicted for improved LRC, DFS, and OS (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In patients evaluated at a HVC, the choice of RT location was primarily influenced by their residing distance from the HVC. HVC‐RT was associated with improvements in LRC, DFS, and OS in HNC. As treatment planning and delivery are technically demanding in HNC, the choice to undergo treatment at a HVC may result in more optimal delivered dose, RT duration, and outcome.
Sensory Characteristics and Antioxidant Activity of Zanthoxylum bungeanumMaxim. Pericarps
Authors: Ma Yao , Wang Yuan , Li Xuan , Hou Li‐Xiu , Wei An‐Zhi
Published: September 2018

Zanthoxylum bungeanum extracts were prepared using seven solvents: water, methanol, ethanol, acetic acid, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and benzene. The volatile composition in the extracts was qualitatively analyzed using headspace solid‐phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography mass spectrometry detection, and the alkylamide composition was determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography. The extract compositions differed with respect to the solvents. A total of 49 volatile components belonging to four groups, terpenoids, alcohols, esters, and ketones, were identified in the extracts. The Z. bungeanum extracts were either ester or terpenoid type, dominated by linalyl acetate. The extracts were divided into three distinct groups based on principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering analysis. Water, methanol, and ethanol extracts could be applied in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Potent and Readily Accessible Bistramide A Analogues through Diverted Total Synthesis
Authors: Hanna Ramsey D. , Naro Yuta , Deiters Alexander , Floreancig Paul E.
Published: September 2018

A diverted total synthesis effort is described that is designed to prepare potent cytotoxins based on the actin‐binding natural product bistramide A. The major focus of this study is the preparation of analogues that contain oxygenation at the C29 position, which is necessary for a key reaction in the sequence but is not present in the natural product. This process showed that C29 ketone analogues are accessed more readily and show similar potency compared to the natural product. The ability to incorporate C29 oxygenation and to replace a secondary alcohol by a primary alcohol allowed for the development of a more convergent approach that provides a potent analogue in just eight steps in its longest linear sequence.
Selective Partial Substitution of B‐Site with Phosphorus in Perovskite Electrocatalysts for Highly Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhang Wenhua , Zhou Wulan , Zhang Zhenbao , Chen Zilong , Tan Shaozao , Chen Dengjie
Published: September 2018

Perovskite oxides are promising electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, the activity and stability of perovskite oxides still needs to be improved to efficiently utilize renewable and clean energy resources. Herein, we selectively introduced phosphorus (P) into SrCo0.8Fe0.2O3‐δ (SCF) to form modified perovskite oxides, i. e., SrCo0.8Fe0.15P0.05O3‐δ, SrCo0.75Fe0.2P0.05O3‐δ and Sr(Co0.8Fe0.2)0.95P0.05O3‐δ. An improved OER activity and stability compared to un‐doped SCF was clearly observed. Meanwhile, the specific surface area, oxygen vacancy content and electronic conductivity increased due to the P doping. Moreover, a lower valence state of B‐site cations induced by the high‐valence P5+ was detected, which may contribute to the better activity and stability. Among them, the dual‐site substitution to form Sr(Co0.8Fe0.2)0.95P0.05O3‐δ stands out when evaluating the activity and stability in alkaline solution. The results suggest that the P doping could be an effective strategy to develop perovskite electrocatalysts with high electrocatalytic activity and stability.
Comparison of Kinetics and Activity of Ni‐Based Catalysts for Benzyl Phenyl Ether Catalytic Hydrogenolysis
Authors: Zhu Chen , Cao Jing-Pei , Xie Tao , Zhao Xiao-Yan , Cui Xin , Guo Zhen-Xing , Shen Wen-Zhong , Bai Jin , Wei Xian-Yong
Published: September 2018

The influence of the type of support [activated carbon (AC), HZSM‐5, and γ‐Al2O3] on the performance of Ni‐based catalysts for the catalytic hydrogenolysis (CH) of benzyl phenyl ether (BPE) is investigated. The properties of an Ni‐based catalyst are investigated using diverse characterization techniques. An Ni/AC catalyst exhibits the highest dispersion of Ni atoms by CO pulse. The kinetic studies show that the apparent activation energies (Ea) for CH of BPE increase in the order Ea (Ni/AC) < Ea (Ni/γ‐Al2O3) < Ea (Ni/HZSM‐5), and the initial turnover frequencies follow the order of Ni/AC (64 mol molNisurf
−1 h−1) > Ni/γ‐Al2O3 (58 mol molNisurf
−1 h−1) > Ni/HZSM‐5 (45 mol molNisurf
−1 h−1). All these results prove that the CH activity of BPE is significantly affected by the type of support, and Ni/AC is the highest activity catalyst in CH of the C—O bond of BPE. Toluene and phenol are major products in CH of BPE at a relatively low hydrogen pressure and high temperature. Based on catalytic experiments, a reaction mechanism is proposed, which provides the theoretical basis for converting lignite into high‐value organic molecules.
In vivo evaluation of an elastomeric small‐diameter vascular graft reinforced with a highly flexible Nitinol mesh
Authors: Soldani Giorgio , Murzi Michele , Faita Francesco , Di Lascio Nicole , Al Kayal Tamer , Spanò Raffaele , Canciani Barbara , Losi Paola
Published: September 2018

Highly porous small‐diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs) prepared with elastomeric materials such as poly(ether urethane) (PEtU)–polydimethylsiloxane (PEtU‐PDMS) are capable to biodegrade but may develop aneurismal dilatation. Through a compliance/patency assessment with ultrasound techniques, the current study investigated the functionality, in terms of patency and endothelialization, of a highly flexible and porous Nitinol mesh incorporated into PEtU‐PDMS SDVGs in a sheep carotid model. Nitinol‐PEtU‐PDMS grafts with an internal diameter (ID) of 4 mm were manufactured by spray, phase‐inversion technique. Compliance tests were performed by ultrasound (US) imaging using a high‐resolution ultrasound diagnostic system. Ten adult sheep were implanted with 7 cm long grafts. The results of this study demonstrated an almost complete neointima luminal coverage in transmurally porous grafts reinforced with the Nitinol meshes after 6 months of implantation. Additionally, ultrasound has been used to quantitatively assess and monitor hemodynamic variables in an experimental model of synthetic vascular graft replacement. The use of reinforced PEtU‐PDMS grafts may accelerate the endothelialization process of relatively long grafts, such as those needed for aortocoronary bypass. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 951–964, 2019.
New method to preserve the original proportion and integrity of urinary cell‐free DNA
Authors: Li Pei , Ning Jun , Luo Xipeng , Du Hongli , Zhang Qing , Zhou Ganlin , Du Qiu , Ou Zhenyu , Wang Long , Wang Yu
Published: September 2018

Background

Due to high nuclease activity and complex contents in urine, urinary cell‐free DNA (ucfDNA) was prone to degrade. So, we developed standardized urine collection tube (UCT) to prevent ucfDNA degradation and simultaneously maintain urinary cells in their original form during the sample collection process, ensuring stabilization of the original proportion and integrity of ucfDNA.

Methods

Urine samples were collected from bladder cancer patients and divided into 10‐mL normal tubes and 10‐mL UCTs, respectively, and kept at ambient temperature. Urine supernatant was separated by centrifuging, and ucfDNA was extracted. Then ucfDNA was quantified by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. UcfDNA fragments distribution was analyzed by Agilent 2200, and the frequency of specific mutations of urinary system disease was detected by next‐generation sequencing method.

Results

Urine collected into UCTs showed no statistically significant changes in their original proportion and integrity of ucfDNA up to 7 days at ambient temperature and also ucfDNA fragments were maintained well. Conversely, urine collected into normal tubes was observed an obviously decline in their original proportion of ucfDNA and ucfDNA fragments changed greatly. The △% of allele fraction (AF) for specific genes of ucfDNA from UCTs was lower than from normal tubes by 3.7‐fold.

Conclusion

Using UCTs, they can maximally keep the original proportion and integrity of ucfDNA and stabilize urinary cells and minimize the background noise caused by urinary cellular DNA releasing, it will be help to open the door of next‐generation noninvasive liquid biopsy applications utilizing urine.
Perfusion microbioreactor system with permeable membranes to monitor bacterial growth
Authors: Vit Franciele Flores , Oliveira Aline Furtado , Rodríguez Daniel Andrés Osorio , de Carvalho Hernandes F , Lancellotti Marcelo , de la Torre Lucimara Gaziola
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Microfluidics offers itself as a potential platform for optimizing microbial growth in different substrate concentrations using a single assay. The aim of this study was to construct a reversible microfluidic device for monitoring the bacterial growth in chambers with different substrate concentrations with its respective technical triplicates. The convective concentration gradient generator (CCG) system was constructed with three inlets for solutions with different concentrations that distributed them to the sequential cultivation chambers (CCs). A perfusion microbioreactor system (PM) was constructed using a commercial polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) sheet and glass, with an adapted semi‐permeable membrane system to constrain the cells within the CC. Cell growth of a fluorescent Escherichia coli JM109 was monitored by fluorescence microscope with time‐lapse technique.

RESULTS

The growth profile of E. coli with different streptomycin concentrations and its specific growth rates (µx) in the microfluidics device (µx of 0.0088 and 0.0092 h−1) were compared in batch cultivations, which show no significant difference between the two methods. In addition, the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values indicate that continuous perfusion surpasses consumption of the tested drug.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate the efficiency of the microfluidic device for cell cultivation and its applicability in industrial biotechnology, allowing rapid screening of multiple parameters. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
The different roles of hcp1 and hcp2 of the type VI secretion system in Escherichia coli strain CE129
Authors: Ding Xueyan , Zhang Qi , Wang Heng , Quan Guomei , Zhang Dong , Ren Wenkai , Liao Yuexia , Xia Pengpeng , Zhu Guoqiang
Published: September 2018

Type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a secretory system found in Gram‐negative bacteria. One of the main structures for T6SS is Hcp (hemolysin co‐regulation protein) pipeline. To investigate the role of Hcp major sub‐unit genes hcp1 and hcp2, we deleted hcp1 and hcp2 genes for constructing the in‐frame gene deletion mutants. The properties of biofilm formation and the adhesion to chicken embryo fibroblasts cells (DF1 cells) were reduced in the hcp2 mutant. The knockout of hcp1 and hcp2 genes reduced the ability of the avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) strain CE129 to infect developing chicken embryos. The expression of quorum sensing (QS)‐associated genes luxS, lsrR, and pfs were down‐regulated in the hcp1 mutant, and the expression of type 1 fimbriae gene fimA and the adhesion‐related genes fimC and papC were decreased in the hcp2 mutant, as well as the expression of anti‐serum survival factor genes ompA and iss were inhibited in both hcp1 and hcp2 mutants. These results described above from this study help to further elaborate the role of HCP in APEC.
Projected changes in summer precipitation over East Asia with a high‐resolution atmospheric general circulation model during 21st century
Authors: Woo Sumin , Singh Gyan Prakash , Oh Jai‐Ho , Lee Kyoung‐Min
Published: September 2018

We provide a broad view of East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) precipitation and their changes in the 21st century under the representative concentration pathway RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios using a high‐resolution (at 40 km) atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM). The simulated fields are validated against the multiple observational data sets in the reference period (1979–2008). Validation of seasonal simulated global climatology and EASM precipitation, annual cycle and various circulation fields including 25 individual Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5 (CMIP5) and CMIP5 MME suggests that AGCM can be used to study the future projected characteristics of EASM. An investigation of uncertainty in precipitation shows larger values in the regions of high‐precipitation belt and low terrain.

Future projections are categorized as near (2010–2039), mid (2040–2069) and far (2070–2100) futures. The model projects an increased summer precipitation of about 3.2% (2.3%) in near future, about 4.5% (4.5%) in mid‐future and about 2.4% (2.3%) in far future over East Asia region under RCP4.5 (RCP8.5) scenarios when compared to the reference period. As far as regional landmasses are concerned, model projects a gradual increase in the range of 5–15% over northeast China, coastal regions of southern China, Korea and Japan regions and a decrease of about 5–10% over southeastern and northwest parts of East Asia during the 21st century. The projected increase of EASM can be attributed to an increase in atmospheric moistures (relative humidity) over the east coast of China, Korea and northeast China and north and northwestwards enhancement of eddy geopotential height. Extreme events are examined by using various precipitation indices over EASM regions. Results indicate that the indices of heavy precipitation are projected to increase (both frequency and intensity) over Korea, Japan and northeast China in the range of 5–20%, indicating strong sensitivity of EASM to global warming.
Impact of south Indian Ocean Dipole on tropical cyclone genesis over the South China Sea
Authors: Wang Teng , Lu Xi , Yang Song
Published: September 2018

This study investigates the impact of the south Indian Ocean Dipole (SIOD) on the frequency of tropical cyclones (TCs) over the South China Sea (SCS) in summer (May–August) and winter (September–December) for 1975–2012. The frequency of TCs over the SCS shows significant inter‐annual variations in the two seasons and relatively obvious inter‐decadal variability in summer. A prominent relationship occurs between the TC generation over the SCS and the SIOD, and the latter can be regarded as a good predictor of the former on inter‐annual scale. In winter, vertical circulation is obvious due to a strong SIOD induces intensified ascending motions and high sea surface temperature over the northern SCS with sufficient moisture that supplies a favourable environment for TC formation. The impact of SIOD is weaker in summer but a convergent zone with upwards motion also can be found over northeastern SCS. In addition, the SIOD and El Niño–Southern Oscillation are two primary impacting factors in winter and TC numbers increase when La Niña and positive SIOD events occur simultaneously. However, the SIOD is a dominant and independent impacting factor in summer and El Niño events just play a secondary role.
In‐vivo elongation of anterior and posterior cruciate ligament in bi‐cruciate retaining total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Tsai Tsung‐Yuan , Liow Ming H. L. , Peng Yun , Arauz Paul , Li Guoan , Kwon Young‐Min
Published: September 2018

Anterior and posterior cruciate ligament (ACL and PCL) sacrifice in contemporary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been considered a potential factor leading to abnormal knee kinematics. Bi‐cruciate retaining (BCR) TKA design allows retention of both ACL and PCL. However, there is a limited data on the ACL/PCL in‐vivo elongation characteristics of BCR TKA. The study aimed to evaluate and compare the in‐vivo elongation patterns of ACL/PCL between BCR TKA and contralateral non‐implanted knee and to explore potential factors leading to the changed elongation patterns between limbs. ACL/PCL elongations of both knees during sit‐to‐stand were measured in 29 unilateral BCR TKA patients using a validated dual fluoroscopic tracking technique. Joint gap changes of the BCR TKA knees relative to the contralateral knee were quantified. BCR TKA and the contralateral non‐implanted knee exhibited similar ACL elongation at extension and clinical anterior knee laxity. However, BCR TKA showed significantly greater PCL elongation during flexion than the non‐implanted knee. Variation of changed elongation was observed for both ACL and PCL, suggesting a heterogeneous restoration of normal ACL/PCL functions. A significant correlation was found between extension joint gap change and the change of ACL elongation, highlighting the importance of precise joint line restoration and soft tissue balancing during BCR TKA surgery. Our findings suggest that BCR TKA did not fully restore “near‐normal” cruciate ligament elongation patterns and anteroposterior stability. Considerable heterogeneity remains in the retained ligament elongation patterns and warrants further investigations of multifactorial factors to optimize ACL/PCL functions in BCR TKA. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:3239–3246, 2018.
Unravelling the hip pistol grip/cam deformity: Origins to joint degeneration
Authors: Beaulé Paul E. , Grammatopoulos George , Speirs Andrew , Geoffrey Ng K. C. , Carsen Sasha , Frei Hanspeter , Melkus Gerd , Rakhra Kawan , Lamontagne Mario
Published: September 2018

This article reviews a body of work performed by the investigators over 9 years that has addressed the significance of cam morphology in the development of hip osteoarthritis (OA). Early hip joint degeneration is a common clinical presentation and preexisting abnormal joint morphology is a risk factor for its development. Interrogating Hill's criteria, we tested whether cam‐type femoroacetabular impingement leads to hip OA. Strength of association was identified between cam morphology, reduced range‐of‐movement, hip pain, and cartilage degeneration. By studying a pediatric population, we were able to characterize the temporality between cam morphology (occurring 1st) and joint degeneration. Using in silico (finite element) and in vivo (imaging biomarkers) studies, we demonstrated the biological plausibility of how a cam deformity can lead to joint degeneration. Furthermore, we were able to show a biological gradient between degree of cam deformity and extent of articular damage. However, not all patients develop joint degeneration and we were able to characterize which factors contribute to this (specificity). Lastly, we were able to show that by removing the cam morphology, one could positively influence the degenerative process (experiment). The findings of this body of work show consistency and coherence with the literature. Furthermore, they illustrate how cam morphology can lead to early joint degeneration analogous to SCFE, dysplasia, and joint mal‐reduction post‐injury. The findings of this study open new avenues on the association between cam morphology and OA including recommendations for the study, screening, follow‐up, and assessment (patient‐specific) of individuals with cam morphology in order to prevent early joint degeneration. Statement of significance: By satisfying Hill's criteria, one can deduct that in some individuals, cam morphology is a cause of OA. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:3125–3135, 2018.
A Robust, Air‐Stable and Recyclable Hydrogel Toward Stretchable Electronic Device Applications
Authors: Shih Chien‐Chung , Wu Mercedes , Hsu Sheng‐Ning , Huang Chao‐Wei , Hsu Li‐Che , Lam Jeun‐Yan , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: September 2018

A novel hygroscopic hydrogel with air‐stable, recyclable, and stretchable properties is demonstrated in this study. The hydrogel is prepared by the simple polymer blends of two hydrophilic polymers, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA), using ethylene glycol as a hygroscopic solvent and cross‐linker. The PVA/PMAA hydrogel is highly stretchable after absorbing water molecules from the ambient environment as plasticizers. The hydrogel shows a high mechanical strength with a Young’s modulus of 0.75 MPa, linear region of 42%, and elongation of over 550% at break, and could be hydrolyzed by water then recast for high quality film for many times. The unique advantages of this hydrogel is further demonstrated by fabricating a stretchable organic memory device using the deoxyribonucleic acid as the memory layer on top of the hydrogel substrate. The device exhibits a write‐once‐read‐many‐times type behavior with a memory ratio of 104, retention time over 105 s, and mechanical durability over 30% strain.
Submicrofiber‐Incorporated 3D Bacterial Cellulose Nanofibrous Scaffolds with Enhanced Cell Performance
Authors: Wan Yizao , Cui Teng , Zhang Quanchao , Yang Zhiwei , Yao Fanglian , Luo Honglin
Published: September 2018

Combining nanofibers with submicrofibers is an effective way to design morphologically biomimetic tissue engineering scaffolds that imitate natural fibrous extracellular matrix (ECM) with varying lengths from nano‐ to submicrometer scales. Herein, the preparation of ECM‐mimetic scaffolds by conjugating electrospun cellulose acetate (CA) submicrofibers with bacterial cellulose (BC) nanofibers via a facile and scalable dispersion freeze‐drying process is reported. The morphology, structure, mechanical properties, and cell behavior of the as‐prepared nano/submicrofibrous BC/CA scaffolds are assessed. It is found that that the nano/submicrofibrous BC/CA scaffolds have 3D porous network structure with larger pores than the bare BC scaffold. Although the BC/CA scaffolds show decreased mechanical properties and porosity than their BC counterparts, they exhibit improved cell behavior over the bare BC scaffold. Moreover, the submicrofibers enable cell infiltration into the scaffolds. This suggests that the coexistence of nano‐ and submicrometer fibers enhances the attachment and spreading of cells on the nano/submicrofibrous scaffolds. This novel nano/submicrofibrous scaffold has great potential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Enzyme‐Responsive Polymer Nanoparticles via Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly
Authors: Wright Daniel B. , Thompson Matthew P. , Touve Mollie A. , Carlini Andrea S. , Gianneschi Nathan C.
Published: September 2018

Open‐to‐air aqueous‐phase ring‐opening metathesis polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (ROMPISA) is reported for forming well‐defined peptide polymer nanoparticles at room temperature and with high solids concentrations (10 w/w%). For these materials, ROMPISA is shown to provide control over molecular weight with high conversion while open‐to‐air. Moreover, these peptide polymer nanoparticles can spontaneously rearrange into larger aggregate scaffolds in the presence of the proteolytic enzyme, thermolysin. This work demonstrates the robust nature of ROMPISA, highlighted here for the preparation of stimuli‐responsive nanostructures in one pot, in air.
Effects of plate thickness on fatigue fracture behaviors of an aluminum alloy (Al‐Cu‐Mg)
Authors: Jian H. , Luo J. , Tang X. , Li X.
Published: September 2018

High cycle fatigue properties of 2124 aluminum alloy plates with different thickness were investigated by determining fatigue S−N curves, fatigue crack growth rates and fracture toughness of 2124‐T851 aluminum alloy plates with the thickness of 30 mm, 40 mm and 55 mm, respectively. Fatigue fracture behaviors of alloy plates were also analyzed and discussed using scanning electron microscope morphology observation, energy spectrum analysis, X‐ray diffraction phase analysis and transmission electron microscopy observation in this paper. The results indicate that plate thickness affects the comprehensive fatigue properties of 2124 aluminum alloy plates. Thinner plate achieves better comprehensive fatigue properties. Due to the different amount of deformation during hot rolling, the variation of microstructure of alloy plates with different thickness mainly concentrates on the difference of grain sizes, substructure and volume fraction of grain boundaries. The thinner the plate, the smaller the grain sizes and therefore the thinner plate produces a higher volume fraction of grain boundaries and substructure, and a greater resistance to fatigue crack growth, thus thinner plate exhibits better fatigue properties.
Correlation between the thermal responses and microstructure patterns in aluminum‐based silicon carbide composites (SiCp/Al) consolidated by different high pressure torsion schemes
Authors: Li P. , Ji X.H. , Xue K.M.
Published: September 2018

High pressure torsion of powder mixture is a novel strategy for manufacturing high‐quality aluminum‐based silicon carbide composite SiCp/Al billet used in electronic packaging, however, the correlation between thermal properties and the high pressure torsion process and the related mechanisms are still unclear. To this end, the variation rules of thermal expansion coefficient and thermal conductivity with high pressure torsion turns are studied and the corresponding microstructure morphology and dislocation patterns are observed by optical and transmission electron microscopes. The results show that thermal expansion coefficient decreases monotonically but thermal conductivity first increases then decreases with the increase of high pressure torsion turns. Moreover, the results of differential scanning calorimetry experiments indicate the decrease of recrystallization temperature with turns of high pressure torsion. The non‐monotonic variation of thermal conductivity is attributed to the combined effect of the improved relative mass density brought by the consolidation effect and the dislocation tanglement and pattern transformation (formation of in‐situ sub‐grains) during high pressure torsion process.
Is the Latency from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Onset to Diagnosis Improving?
Authors: Mamarabadi Mansoureh , Razjouyan Hadie , Golbe Lawrence I.
Published: September 2018

Background

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a neuropathologically defined disease with a broad clinical spectrum. It can initially be mistaken for other neurodegenerative diseases. Diagnosis of PSP earlier in the course may reduce its psychological and financial burden, permit earlier access to neuroprotective interventions, and avoid unnecessary diagnostic and therapeutic measures. Our impression is that physicians are more aware of PSP in the 2010s than in the 1990s. This study tests that hypothesis using the latency from symptom onset to PSP diagnosis as a surrogate outcome.

Methods

We reviewed records of 385 patients with “possible” or “probable” PSP from 1990 to 2016 at the Movement Disorders Center, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. The time from symptom onset to diagnosis was calculated for each patient and labeled as latency. We used the Pearson correlation coefficient, Student's t‐test, and ANOVA as appropriate.

Results

Our data show that the mean latency (SD) from symptom onset to diagnosis PSP, in months, was 43.76 (25.60) in the 1990s, 40.76 (28.73) in the 2000s, and 29.15 (16.80) in the 2010s (P < .001). There was also an inverse relationship between age at onset and latency (Pearson's r = −0.23, P < .001). This relationship did not affect the statistical significance of our main observation.

Conclusion

Our finding suggests that there is a progressive reduction in the latency over the past three decades. It may reflect increased awareness of PSP by physicians in our referral area.
Wrist arthrodesis with the medial femoral condyle flap: Outcomes of vascularized bone grafting for osteomyelitis
Authors: Mattos David , Ko Jason H. , Iorio Matthew L.
Published: September 2018

Background

Osteomyelitis of the wrist is rare but destructive. Subsequent bone defects often require vascularized bone for successful healing. Recent literature has pointed to the successful use of the medial femoral condylar (MFC) flap for difficult non‐unions, yet it has not been specifically described for wrist fusion. We present our experience with this technique for limited and complete wrist arthrodesis.

Patients and Methods

We reviewed 4 cases of radiocarpal bone loss from osteomyelitis. All cases utilized debridement of nonviable tissues, and at least 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotics, followed by vascularized bone grafting with a MFC flap. The flap was based on the horizontal periosteal branch of the descending geniculate artery, and utilized to directly bridge the bony defects following resection.

Results

Three patients healed primarily, and 1 patient required secondary cancellous bone grafting to reach union. One patient required revision of the donor site closure. None of the patients had a recurrence of infection or other complications. Average follow up was 8.5 months after reconstruction. Average time to union was 11.5 weeks. Three patients demonstrated full composite fist, and 1 patient had incomplete finger range of motion following several flexor and extensor tendon grafts.

Conclusions

These cases illustrate the use of the MFC in wrist arthrodesis after osteomyelitis defects. In all cases, there was complete union in a short time, no recurrence of infection, and low donor‐site morbidity.
Modification of the LSMPS method for the conservation of the thermal energy in laser irradiation processes
Authors: Tanaka Masayuki , Cardoso Rui , Bahai Hamid
Published: September 2018

In this work, new least‐square moving particle semi‐implicit (LSMPS) formulations for the modeling of the heat conduction in laser irradiation processes for both thick blocks and thin plates are developed. These new LSMPS formulations guarantee the conservation of the total thermal energy during the heat exchange between particles. The conservation of the thermal energy in the LSMPS method was implemented together with multiresolution techniques for the discretization of the domain with particles of different sizes so that a better characterization of the thermal gradients in the vicinity of the laser beam can be obtained. The simulation of laser irradiation processes for thin plates is still very challenging for particle methods with spherical particles and this is essentially because it is difficult to accommodate a minimum number of particles along the thickness direction without increasing considerably the resolution or the number of particles in the entire plate. In order to overcome this difficulty, a new multiresolution method based on particles with ellipsoidal shapes was also developed for a more efficient modeling of the laser irradiation in thin plates. By conducting the heat conduction simulations, in which the standard LSMPS method can provide accurate temperature distribution and by comparing the results with an analytical solution, it was confirmed that the proposed method is as accurate as the standard LSMPS method. Moreover, the heat conduction with an external heat source, in which the total thermal energy is not conserved by using the standard LSMPS method, was successfully simulated by using the proposed method. The simulations of laser irradiations were also conducted, and the validity of the proposed method has been confirmed by comparing numerical results with experimental data.
Mehrkampf mit vier Bällen
Authors: Amberger Christian , Mathelitsch Leopold , Thaller Sigrid
Published: September 2018

Racketlon umfasst als Mehrkampf‐Sportart Tischtennis, Badminton, Squash und Tennis. Bei jeder Disziplin unterscheiden sich die physikalischen Eigenschaften von Bällen und Schlägern. Verblüffenderweise erreicht der Badminton‐Federball kurz nach dem Schlag die bei Weitem höchsten Fluggeschwindigkeiten bis über 400 km/h, bremst aber schnell ab. Beim Squash beeinflusst die Temperatur des Balls das Sprungverhalten stark. Solche unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften der nacheinander gespielten Disziplinen machen Racketlon zu einer anspruchsvollen Sportart.
Bis an die Grenzen des Messbaren
Authors: Müller Holger , Haslinger Philipp
Published: September 2018

Atominterferometer haben in den letzten Jahren große experimentelle Hürden gemeistert. So konnte mit ihnen vor kurzem der bis jetzt genaueste Wert der Feinstrukturkonstante bestimmt werden. Aber auch bei der Erforschung von Dunkler Energie lieferten sie wichtige Resultate. Selbst eine heftig debattierte, durch Schwarzkörperstrahlung hervorgerufene Kraft konnte experimentell nachgewiesen werden. In näherer Zukunft sind weitere bahnbrechende Entwicklung zu erwarten. Ein in einem optischen Resonator levitierendes Atominterferometer sollte die Empfindlichkeit und räumliche Genauigkeit von jetzigen Atominterferometern in der Messung von Kraftfeldern um viele Größenordnungen übertreffen. Das sollte viele neue spannende Experimente ermöglichen.
Vermessung von Nobelium‐Isotopen mit Laserlicht
Authors: Raeder Sebastian , Laatiaoui Mustapha , Block Michael
Published: September 2018

Die Größe und Form künstlich hergestellter Atomkerne mit mehr als hundert Protonen ließ sich bislang experimentell nicht direkt ermitteln. Mit Hilfe einer neuen laserspektroskopischen Methode ist es unserer Kollaboration gelungen, die optische Anregung von Energieniveaus in der Atomhülle von drei Isotopen des schweren synthetischen Elements Nobelium detailliert mit Hilfe von Laserlicht zu vermessen. Das ermöglicht Einblicke in die Struktur des superschweren Kerns.
Virtuelle Multiplikation von Kugeln
Authors: Schlichting Hans‐Joachim
Published: September 2018

Gegenstände in wassergefüllten Aquarien können aufgrund zahlreicher Reflexionen an den durchsichtigen Wänden zu einem optischen Rätsel werden.
Harsdörffers Fünffacher Denckring
Authors: Mecke Klaus
Published: September 2018

Eine Ästhetik des Zufalls und eine Theorie der Wahrscheinlichkeit wurden angeregt durch die barocken Permutationsgedichte, wie sie Georg Philipp Harsdörffer schrieb und über die Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz promovierte.
Child Poverty and Youth Unemployment in Lebanon
Authors: Sleem Hoda N. , Dixon John
Published: September 2018

Lebanon is a small country whose citizens are religiously diverse. It is accommodating 1.5 million refugees from Arab countries. Child poverty is a serious social problem, for it affects child development and has negative outcomes for all children affected. Youth poverty constrains youth achievements. Some 1.35 million Lebanese are living below the poverty line, and there are more than 1,500 street children, most of whom are Syrian refugees. High unemployment is another serious social problem, with an estimated 18.7 percent of males and 24.7 percent of females being unemployed. Unemployment among youth leads to lower levels of happiness and well‐being and to feelings of not being accepted in society. Youth unemployment is also associated with drug and alcohol use as well as higher incidences of criminal and antisocial behaviors. The problem of youth is worsening in Lebanon because of Arab youth refugees, but, at the same time, the Lebanese government has not set out any comprehensive and appropriately designed policies that meet Lebanon's specific social, economic, and political problems being experienced.
Child Poverty and Youth Unemployment in Jordan
Authors: Olimat Hmoud S.
Published: September 2018

The main purposes of this article were to investigate the extent and depth of child poverty and youth unemployment in Jordan. In addition, it investigates the sociocultural connotation of child poverty and youth unemployment and the roles of state, society, and civic organizations in responding to these twin problems; as Syrian refugees currently constitute around one‐fifth of Jordan's population, the plight of Syrian children and youth is also addressed. The importance and urgency of the twin problems of poverty and unemployment, especially in relation to children and youth, are reflected in the speeches and correspondence of King Abdullah II.
One‐Step Preparation of Viologen‐TiO2 Nanoparticles via a Hydrothermally Assisted Sol–Gel Process for Use in Electrochromic Films and Devices
Authors: Viñuales Ana , Herbig Bettina , Alesanco Yolanda , Palenzuela Jesús , Rodriguez Javier , Schmitt Angelika , Posset Uwe
Published: September 2018

A one‐step method based on a hydrothermally assisted sol–gel process for the preparation of electrochromic viologen‐modified TiO2 nanoparticles is presented. The simplicity of the proposed one‐step synthesis and its usefulness for the subsequent preparation of transparent electrochromic films is demonstrated. In this method, the viologen moieties are attached during the growing/crystallization process of the TiO2 nanoparticles; therefore, neither sintering nor immersion into viologen solution of the resulting nanostructured film as in the standard methods is required. Thus, this novel approach is compatible with plastic substrates and easier to scale‐up. The morphology of the films is characterized by means of X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and ellipsometric porosimetry experiment, while the presence of viologen moieties in and throughout the film is detected by means of diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Finally, full cells are assembled both on conducting glass and polyester substrates to demonstrate that electrochromic devices with excellent performance (ΔT% = 58% and 48%, respectively) can be made with films deposited from viologen‐TiO2 nanoparticulate dispersions obtained by this method.
Dibutyl succinate, produced by an insect‐pathogenic fungus, Isaria javanica pf185, is a metabolite that controls of aphids and a fungal disease, anthracnose
Authors: Lee Yong‐Seong , Han Ji Hee , Kang Beom Ryong , Kim Young Cheol
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

An entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria javanica pf185, causes mortality in nymphs of the green peach aphid and inhibits the growth of fungal plant pathogens. However, the metabolites of pf185 involved in these antifungal and aphicidal activities are unknown. This study was performed to identify the metabolites with these activities.

RESULTS

An antifungal metabolite was purified by repetitive column chromatography and preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography. Based on data from mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance, the active metabolite was identified as dibutyl succinate. The minimum concentration of dibutyl succinate to inhibit germination of conidia of the cause of anthracnose, Colletotrichum acutatum, was 4 mg mL−1. Dibutyl succinate at 2 µg mL−1 inhibited mycelial growth. It also had strong aphicidal activity against the nymphs of the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, median lethal concentration (LC50) of 306 mg L−1 at 24 h exposure, and median lethal time (LT50) of 14.5 h at 388 mg L−1 exposure.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report indicating that a single metabolite, dibutyl succinate, from the beneficial fungus I. javanica, has potential for use in integrated pest management to inhibit both insect and fungal plant pathogens. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry