bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating surrogate marker information using censored data
Authors: Parast Layla , Cai Tianxi , Tian Lu
Published: January 2017

Given the long follow‐up periods that are often required for treatment or intervention studies, the potential to use surrogate markers to decrease the required follow‐up time is a very attractive goal. However, previous studies have shown that using inadequate markers or making inappropriate assumptions about the relationship between the primary outcome and surrogate marker can lead to inaccurate conclusions regarding the treatment effect. Currently available methods for identifying and validating surrogate markers tend to rely on restrictive model assumptions and/or focus on uncensored outcomes. The ability to use such methods in practice when the primary outcome of interest is a time‐to‐event outcome is difficult because of censoring and missing surrogate information among those who experience the primary outcome before surrogate marker measurement. In this paper, we propose a novel definition of the proportion of treatment effect explained by surrogate information collected up to a specified time in the setting of a time‐to‐event primary outcome. Our proposed approach accommodates a setting where individuals may experience the primary outcome before the surrogate marker is measured. We propose a robust non‐parametric procedure to estimate the defined quantity using censored data and use a perturbation‐resampling procedure for variance estimation. Simulation studies demonstrate that the proposed procedures perform well in finite samples. We illustrate the proposed procedures by investigating two potential surrogate markers for diabetes using data from the Diabetes Prevention Program. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acute Pancreatitis After Percutaneous Biliary Drainage: An Obstacle in Liver Surgery for Proximal Biliary Cancer
Authors: Russolillo Nadia , Massobrio Andrea , Langella Serena , Lo Tesoriere Roberto , Carbonatto Paolo , Ferrero Alessandro
Published: January 2017

Background

Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) has a crucial role in treatment of proximal biliary cancer (PBC). We assessed the incidence, risk factors, and impact of acute pancreatitis (AP) post‐PTBD.

Methods

Forty patients with PBC scheduled for PTBD from January 2005 to December 2015 were enrolled. Exclusion criteria were missing clinical data, PTBD performed in other institutions, and palliative PTBD.

Result

The 40 patients comprised 8 (20%) with gallbladder cancer, 6 (15%) with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and 26 (65%) with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma. A median of 1 PTBD procedure was performed per patient; 16 (40%) patients underwent PTBD more than once. PTBD was left‐sided in 14 (35.0%) patients, right‐sided in 21 (52.5%), and bilobar in 5(12.5%). Seventeen (42.5%) patients had one or more drainage‐related complications. Five (12.5%) patients developed AP. A significantly higher percentage of patients with than without AP developed sepsis (60.0 vs. 11.4%, respectively) and did not undergo the planned liver resection [2 (40.0%) vs. 0 (0.0%), respectively]. Significantly more patients with than without AP underwent left‐sided PTBD [10 (28.6%) vs. 4 (80.0%), respectively].

Conclusion

PTBD is frequently complicated by AP. AP plays a key role in the development of sepsis. Nearly half of patients with AP lose the opportunity for surgical treatment.
Modifications of inhibitory transmission onto pyramidal neurons by postnatal exposure to MK‐801: Effects of enriched environment
Authors: Shojaei Amir , Anaraki Afsaneh Kamali , Mirnajafi‐Zadeh Javad , Atapour Nafiseh
Published: January 2017

Early enriched environment (EE) prevents several deficits associated with postnatal MK‐801 [N‐Methyl‐d‐Aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist] treatment such as cognitive and locomotor deficits. We sought physiological correlates to such changes by looking at inhibitory synaptic inputs onto pyramidal cells in a prefrontal cortex slice preparation. Pharmacologically isolated γ‐amino‐butyric acid A (GABAA) receptor‐mediated currents were measured using whole‐cell patch clamp recordings. Wistar rats were raised in standard or EE from birth up to the time of experiments and were injected with saline or MK‐801 (1 mg/ kg) on postnatal days (P) 6–10. We recorded miniature inhibitory post‐synaptic currents (mIPSCs) of pyramidal cells in layer II/III of prefrontal cortex and measured their frequency, amplitude and kinetics. In control animals, the amplitude and frequency of mIPSCs increased strikingly during development from P21 to P28. MK‐801 accelerated the development of mIPSCs frequency but caused a significant decrease in the amplitude of mIPSCs on P28 suggesting a significant reduction of inhibition onto pyramidal cells. EE per se led to a significant increase in both frequency and amplitude of mIPSCs, but its application to MK‐801‐treated rats resulted in moderate rescue of GABAergic transmission on P28. We conclude that postnatal MK‐801 leads to reduced inhibitory transmission onto pyramidal cells of prefrontal cortex at adolescence which may underlie behavioural and morphological differences detected in vivo in rats. EE presentation from birth rather prevents GABAergic alterations associated with postnatal MK‐801 treatment at adolescence.
Is there an association between diet and depression in children and adolescents? A systematic review
Authors: Khalid Sundus , Williams Claire M. , Reynolds Shirley A.
Published: January 2017

This review critically evaluates previous studies investigating the association between dietary intake of children and young people and depression and related mental health problems. A systematic literature search was conducted using electronic databases such as PsycINFO, MEDLINE, PubMed and Cochrane. A total of twenty studies were identified that met inclusion criteria and were subsequently rated for quality. The studies used a range of methods to measure dietary intake and mental health. Important potential confounding variables (e.g. socio-economic status) were often not included or controlled. There were also inconsistencies in the use of key constructs, which made comparisons between studies difficult. Despite some contradictory results, overall there was support for an association between healthy dietary patterns or consumption of a high-quality diet and lower levels of depression or better mental health. Similarly, there was a relationship between unhealthy diet and consumption of low-quality diet and depression or poor mental health. However, where significant relationships were reported, effect sizes were small. Future research on the relationship between diet and mental health in young people should use more clearly defined constructs to define diet and include or control for important confounders.
Potential involvement of dietary advanced glycation end products in impairment of skeletal muscle growth and muscle contractile function in mice
Authors: Egawa Tatsuro , Tsuda Satoshi , Goto Ayumi , Ohno Yoshitaka , Yokoyama Shingo , Goto Katsumasa , Hayashi Tatsuya
Published: January 2017

Diets enriched with advanced glycation end products (AGE) have recently been related to muscle dysfunction processes. However, it remains unclear whether long-term exposure to an AGE-enriched diet impacts physiological characteristics of skeletal muscles. Therefore, we explored the differences in skeletal muscle mass, contractile function and molecular responses between mice receiving a diet high in AGE (H-AGE) and low in AGE (L-AGE) for 16 weeks. There were no significant differences between L-AGE and H-AGE mice with regard to body weight, food intake or epididymal fat pad weight. However, extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and plantaris (PLA) muscle weights in H-AGE mice were lower compared with L-AGE mice. Higher levels of Nε-(carboxymethyl)-l-lysine, a marker for AGE, in EDL muscles of H-AGE mice were observed compared with L-AGE mice. H-AGE mice showed lower muscle strength and endurance in vivo and lower muscle force production of PLA muscle in vitro. mRNA expression levels of myogenic factors including myogenic factor 5 and myogenic differentiation in EDL muscle were lower in H-AGE mice compared with L-AGE mice. The phosphorylation status of 70-kDa ribosomal protein S6 kinase Thr389, an indicator of protein synthesis signalling, was lower in EDL muscle of H-AGE mice than that of L-AGE mice. These findings suggest that long-term exposure to an AGE-enriched diet impairs skeletal muscle growth and muscle contractile function, and that these muscle dysfunctions may be attributed to the inhibition of myogenic potential and protein synthesis.
A clear and present danger: impacts of poisoning on a vulture population and the effect of poison response activities
Authors: Murn Campbell , Botha André
Published: January 2017

Vultures in Africa are being poisoned deliberately by poachers to prevent the birds alerting authorities to the poachers’ illegal activities, or for harvesting and sale of body parts for use in witchcraft. Hundreds of vultures can be killed at a single poisoned elephant Loxodonta africana carcass, and although field staff trained in poison response activities can limit the damage, mortalities remain numerous. We used the population viability analysis programme VORTEX to simulate seven 100-year-long scenarios investigating various rates of poisoning mortalities and the remedial effects of poison response activities on a population of Critically Endangered white-backed vultures Gyps africanus breeding in Kruger National Park, South Africa. In six scenarios the population declined (λ < 1); in three scenarios the population remained extant over the 100-year simulations but declined by 60–90% from a starting size of 2,400 individuals. In two scenarios one poisoned elephant carcass left untreated and causing the greatest number of vulture deaths was modelled as a catastrophic event with a 50% probability of annual occurrence, which resulted in a 100% probability of population extinction, with a mean time to extinction of 55–62 years. Effective poison response activities were modelled as a 70% reduction of mortality at each poisoned elephant carcass and resulted in population persistence after 100 years but with a c. 90% reduction in size (final n = 205). We highlight that although poison response activities will not prevent poisoning from occurring, they form an essential part of wider conservation actions designed to prevent local extinctions of vultures or other vulnerable species.
A short remark regarding Pohozaev-type results on general domains assuming finite Morse index
Authors: Cowan Craig
Published: January 2017

We are interested in non-negative non-trivial solutions of

where 1 < p and Ω is a bounded smooth domain in ℝN with 3 ⩽ N ⩽ 9. We show that given a non-negative integer M there is some large p(M,Ω) such that the only non-negative solution u, of Morse index at most M, is u = 0.
“IN OUR IMAGE, ACCORDING TO OUR LIKENESS”: JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER, JR. AND RECONSTRUCTING MANHOOD IN POST-LUDLOW COLORADO
Authors: Henry Robin
Published: January 2017

John D. Rockefeller, Jr.’s reactions to the Colorado Coal Wars resulted in the creation of the Employee Representation Plan, better known as the Rockefeller Plan. While labor historians identify the Rockefeller Plan as a dynamic shift in labor-management relations, this article focuses on the lesser studied portion of Rockefeller's reconstruction plan, his program of soft reform and its effect on the construction of masculinity in the industrial West. For Junior, restructuring the work environment and the relationship between management and labor left reconstruction incomplete, and thus vulnerable to future crises. Beginning in 1914, Rockefeller provided support for local and national social organizations to work throughout southern Colorado in order to impart middle-class values to his workers. He believed that reconstructing their social and cultural values—from language to sexual behavior—would remove any socialist influences, and create a better workforce. By applying this type of pressure, Junior helped create an environment that supported local anti-vice movements, and validated a growing belief that law enforcement and legislation could be used to curb vice. Following the deadly strike, Rockefeller's attempts to transform his public image and industrial workers not only have implications for labor history, but also social and gender histories, in particular the construction of masculinity in the American West.

As I understand you are a member of the Baptist Church. So am I. But I think you must be a very inconsistent one. You teach Sunday school in New York and let the devil run your business in Colorado. You and your managers are totally responsible for all the bloodshed that occurred in Colorado. If you had lived up to the law there would have been no strike in Colorado. It is human nature to suffer rather than resent and men do not go on strikes for the fun of it.1
Erratum: A unified molecular mechanism for the regulation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase by phosphorylation
Authors: Wei Jia , Zhang Yixiao , Yu Tai-Yuan , Sadre-Bazzaz Kianoush , Rudolph Michael J , Amodeo Gabriele A , Symington Lorraine S , Walz Thomas , Tong Liang
Published: January 2017

Correction to: Cell Discovery (2016) 2, 16044; doi:10.1038/celldisc.2016.44; published online 29 November 2016 In the initial published version of this article, we omitted the reference to an earlier paper [1] that showed that phosphorylation on Ser1157 was reduced by 50% in snf1 yeast cells and that the S1157A mutant cells could not grow on media-lacking inositol.
The evolution of no-cost resistance at sub-MIC concentrations of streptomycin in Streptomyces coelicolor
Authors: Westhoff Sanne , van Leeuwe Tim Marijn , Qachach Omar , Zhang Zheren , van Wezel Gilles Philippus , Rozen Daniel Eric
Published: January 2017

At the high concentrations used in medicine, antibiotics exert strong selection on bacterial populations for the evolution of resistance. However, these lethal concentrations may not be representative of the concentrations bacteria face in soil, a recognition that has led to questions of the role of antibiotics in soil environments as well as the dynamics of resistance evolution during sublethal challenge. Here we examine the evolution of resistance to sub-minimal inhibitory concentrations (sub-MIC) of streptomycin in the filamentous soil bacterium Streptomyces coelicolor. First, we show that spontaneous resistance to streptomycin causes an average fitness deficit of ~21% in the absence of drugs; however, these costs are eliminated at concentrations as low as 1/10 the MIC of susceptible strains. Using experimental evolution, we next show that resistance to >MIC levels of streptomycin readily evolves when bacteria are exposed to sub-MIC doses for 500 generations. Furthermore, the resistant clones that evolved at sub-MIC streptomycin concentrations carry no fitness cost. Whole-genome analyses reveal that evolved resistant clones fixed some of the same mutations as those isolated at high drug concentrations; however, all evolved clones carry additional mutations and some fixed mutations that either compensate for costly resistance or have no associated fitness costs. Our results broaden the conditions under which resistance can evolve in nature and suggest that rather than low-concentration antibiotics acting as signals, resistance evolves in response to antibiotics used as weapons.
High-throughput quantitation of inorganic nanoparticle biodistribution at the single-cell level using mass cytometry
Authors: Yang Yu-Sang Sabrina , Atukorale Prabhani U. , Moynihan Kelly D. , Bekdemir Ahmet , Rakhra Kavya , Tang Li , Stellacci Francesco , Irvine Darrell J.
Published: January 2017

Inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) are studied as drug carriers, radiosensitizers and imaging agents, and characterizing nanoparticle biodistribution is essential for evaluating their efficacy and safety. Tracking NPs at the single-cell level with current technologies is complicated by the lack of reliable methods to stably label particles over extended durations in vivo. Here we demonstrate that mass cytometry by time-of-flight provides a label-free approach for inorganic nanoparticle quantitation in cells. Furthermore, mass cytometry can enumerate AuNPs with a lower detection limit of ∼10 AuNPs (3 nm core size) in a single cell with tandem multiparameter cellular phenotyping. Using the cellular distribution insights, we selected an amphiphilic surface ligand-coated AuNP that targeted myeloid dendritic cells in lymph nodes as a peptide antigen carrier, substantially increasing the efficacy of a model vaccine in a B16-OVA melanoma mouse model. This technology provides a powerful new level of insight into nanoparticle fate in vivo.
Evidence of Microvascular Changes in the Retina following Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Chen Katherine Y. H. , Burgner David P. , Wong Tien Y. , Saw Seang Mei , Quek Swee Chye , Pang Audrey Y. C. , Leo Seo Wei , Wong Inez B. , Zannino Diana , Curtis Nigel , Cheung Michael , Cheung Carol Y. , Lim Terence C. W.
Published: January 2017

It is unclear whether all children with Kawasaki disease (KD) have increased later cardiovascular risk. The retinal microvasculature reflects changes in the microcirculation and is associated with traditional cardiovascular risk factors and events. The aim of this study was to investigate retinal microvascular parameters in two populations of patients with previous KD and control participants. We performed case-control studies of 116 (57 patients and 59 control participants) Australian and 156 (78 patients and 78 control participants) Singaporean individuals, at least two years since their acute illness. Standardised retinal photographs were graded by trained technicians using a semi-automated software, which quantifies the retinal microvasculature (calibre, branching angle, fractal dimensions, and tortuosity). Retinal venules of Singaporean KD patients were 9.67 μm (95% CI 4.87 to 14.51, p < 0.001) larger than control participants following correction for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. An incremental increase in the size of retinal venules in those with coronary artery abnormalities was observed. There was limited evidence that retinal venules were larger in Australian KD patients with coronary artery abnormalities compared to control participants (7.34 μm, 95% CI 1.30 to 15.99, p = 0.10). Differences in retinal microvasculature were particularly evident in Singaporean KD patients. Larger retinal venules may reflect chronic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, and are associated with coronary artery disease in adults.
Hydrophobic Residues near the Bilin Chromophore-Binding Pocket Modulate Spectral Tuning of Insert-Cys Subfamily Cyanobacteriochromes
Authors: Cho Sung Mi , Jeoung Sae Chae , Song Ji-Young , Song Ji-Joon , Park Youn-Il
Published: January 2017

Cyanobacteriochromes (CBCRs) are a subfamily of phytochrome photoreceptors found exclusively in photosynthetic cyanobacteria. Four CBCRs containing a second Cys in the insert region (insert-Cys) have been identified from the nonheterocystous cyanobacterium Microcoleus B353 (Mbr3854g4 and Mbl3738g2) and the nitrogen fixing, heterocystous cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme (NpF2164g3 and NpR1597g2). These insert-Cys CBCRs can sense light in the near-UV to orange range, but key residues responsible for tuning their colour sensitivity have not been reported. In the present study, near-UV/Green (UG) photosensors Mbr3854g4 (UG1) and Mbl3738g2 (UG2) were chosen for further spectroscopic analysis of their spectral sensitivity and tuning. Consistent with most dual-Cys CBCRs, both UGs formed a second thioether linkage to the phycocyanobilin (PCB) chromophore via the insert-Cys. This bond is subject to breakage and relinkage during forward and reverse photoconversions. Variations in residues equivalent to Phe that are in close contact with the PCB chromophore D-ring in canonical red/green CBCRs are responsible for tuning the light absorption peaks of both dark and photoproducts. This is the first time these key residues that govern light absorption in insert-Cys family CBCRs have been identified and characterised.
Silicon availability modifies nutrient use efficiency and content, C:N:P stoichiometry, and productivity of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Neu Silke , Schaller Jörg , Dudel E. Gert
Published: January 2017

Silicon (Si) is known as beneficial element for graminaceous plants. The importance of Si for plant functioning of cereals was recently emphasized. However, about the effect of Si availability on biomass production, grain yield, nutrient status and nutrient use efficiency for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), as one of the most important crop plants worldwide, less is known so far. Consequently, we assessed the effect of a broad range of supply levels of amorphous SiO2 on wheat plant performance. Our results revealed that Si is readily taken up and accumulated basically in aboveground vegetative organs. Carbon (C) and phosphorus (P) status of plants were altered in response to varying Si supply. In bulk straw biomass C concentration decreased with increasing Si supply, while P concentration increased from slight limitation towards optimal nutrition. Thereby, aboveground biomass production increased at low to medium supply levels of silica whereas grain yield increased at medium supply level only. Nutrient use efficiency was improved by Si insofar that biomass production was enhanced at constant nitrogen (N) status of substrate and plants. Consequently, our findings imply fundamental influences of Si on C turnover, P availability and nitrogen use efficiency for wheat as a major staple crop.
Star-shaped copolymer grafted PEI and REDV as a gene carrier to improve migration of endothelial cells
Authors: Lv Juan , Hao Xuefang , Li Qian , Akpanyung Mary , Nejjari Abdelilah , Neve Agnaldo Luis , Ren Xiangkui , Feng Yakai , Shi Changcan , Zhang Wencheng
Published: January 2017

A transfection process of EA.hy926 cells treated by REDV peptide targeted micelles/pDNA complexes.
Quantifying the equilibrium partitioning of substituted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in aerosols and clouds using COSMOtherm
Authors: Awonaike Boluwatife , Wang Chen , Goss Kai-Uwe , Wania Frank
Published: January 2017

Functional groups attached to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can significantly modify the environmental fate of the parent compound.
Influence of nickel manganese cobalt oxide nanoparticle composition on toxicity toward Shewanella oneidensis MR-1: redesigning for reduced biological impact
Authors: Gunsolus Ian L. , Hang Mimi N. , Hudson-Smith Natalie V. , Buchman Joseph T. , Bennett Joseph W. , Conroy Daniel , Mason Sara E. , Hamers Robert J. , Haynes Christy L.
Published: January 2017

This work investigates the biological impact of LixNiyMnzCo1−y−zO2, a class of cathode materials used in lithium ion batteries.
LED revolution: fundamentals and prospects for UV disinfection applications
Authors: Chen Jian , Loeb Stephanie , Kim Jae-Hong
Published: January 2017

This review provides the fundamental and essential knowledge of UV-LEDs to better apply LED technology in environmental application.
Highly effective adsorption of xanthene dyes (rhodamine B and erythrosine B) from aqueous solutions onto lemon citrus peel active carbon: characterization, resolving analysis, optimization and mechanistic studies
Authors: Sharifzade Gholamhasan , Asghari Alireza , Rajabi Maryam
Published: January 2017

Erythrosine B (EB) and rhodamine B (RB) dyes that were selected as model of xanthene dyes for dye adsorption from aqueous solution, were removed effectively.
Augmentation of air cathode microbial fuel cell performance using wild type Klebsiella variicola
Authors: Islam M. Amirul , Karim Ahasanul , Woon Chee Wai , Ethiraj Baranitharan , Cheng Chin Kui , Yousuf Abu , Rahman Khan Md Maksudur
Published: January 2017

Simultaneous power generation and wastewater treatment in the single chamber air cathode microbial fuel cell have been enhanced by introducing wild-typeKlebsiella variicolaas an efficient inoculum for the anode operated with palm oil mill effluent.
Unique microstructure of an oil resistant nitrile butadiene rubber/polypropylene dynamically vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer
Authors: Ning Nanying , Li Xiangyan , Tian Hongchi , Hua Yueqing , Zuo Hongli , Yao Pengjun , Zhang Liqun , Wu Youping , Hu Guo-Hua , Tian Ming
Published: January 2017

This paper reports on the microstructure, morphological evolution and the properties of oil resistant nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR)/polypropylene (PP) thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) prepared by dynamical vulcanization (DV).
Phase behavior of a binary lipid system containing long- and short-chain phosphatidylcholines
Authors: Sun Hai-Yuan , Wu Fu-Gen , Li Zhi-Hong , Deng Geng , Zhou Yu , Yu Zhi-Wu
Published: January 2017

A new phase state, named the U phase, was observed in DPPC–diC8PC mixtures at low DPPC contents.
Hydrothermal assisted in situ growth of CoSe onto graphene nanosheets as a nanohybrid positive electrode for asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Kirubasankar Balakrishnan , Murugadoss Vignesh , Angaiah Subramania
Published: January 2017

Cobalt selenide–graphene (CoSe–G) nanohybrid was successfully synthesised by a one-pot hydrothermal method and used as a positive electrode for asymmetric supercapacitor, which provides an energy density of 45.5 W h kg−1 and a power density of 1.1 kW kg−1.
Fluorescent analogs of cyclic and linear dinucleotides as phosphodiesterase and oligoribonuclease activity probes
Authors: Zhou Jie , Zheng Yue , Roembke Benjamin T. , Robinson Sarah M. , Opoku-Temeng Clement , Sayre David A. , Sintim Herman O.
Published: January 2017

2-Aminopurine or etheno adenosine cyclic dinucleotide probes can report the activity of cyclic dinucleotide PDEs or oligoribonucleases.
Theoretical prediction of the synthesis of 2,3-dihydropyridines through Ir(iii)-catalysed reaction of unsaturated oximes with alkenes
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhang Xiang-Biao , Zhang Dan-Dan , He Sheng-Gui
Published: January 2017

The Ir(iii)-catalysed reaction of unsaturated oximes with alkenes was predicted, and the results indicate a more efficient synthesis of 2,3-dihydropyridines.
Synthesis, structural analysis, solution equilibria and biological activity of rhodium(iii) complexes with a quinquedentate polyaminopolycarboxylate
Authors: Jeremić Marija S. , Wadepohl Hubert , Kojić Vesna V. , Jakimov Dimitar S. , Jelić Ratomir , Popović Suzana , Matović Zoran D. , Comba Peter
Published: January 2017

Two new Rh(iii)–ed3a complexes [Rh(ed3a)(OH2)]·H2O and Na[Rh(ed3a)Cl]·H2O have shown good antitumor activity, especially against HeLa cell line.
Reinforcing biofiller “Lignin” for high performance green natural rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Ikeda Yuko , Phakkeeree Treethip , Junkong Preeyanuch , Yokohama Hiroyuki , Phinyocheep Pranee , Kitano Ritsuko , Kato Atsushi
Published: January 2017

High performance eco-friendly natural rubber biocomposites with various contents up to 40 parts per one hundred rubber by weight of lignin were successfully prepared from sodium lignosulfonate and natural rubber latex using the soft process.
Swollen liquid crystals (SLCs): a versatile template for the synthesis of nano structured materials
Authors: Dutt Sunil , Siril Prem Felix , Remita Samy
Published: January 2017

Swollen liquid crystals (SLCs) are the class of lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) that are usually formed by a quaternary mixture of aqueous phase, oil phase, surfactant and cosurfactant.
Thermal responses of a gas hydrate-bearing sediment to a depressurization operation
Authors: Yamamoto K. , Kanno T. , Wang X.-X. , Tamaki M. , Fujii T. , Chee S.-S. , Wang X.-W. , Pimenov V. , Shako V.
Published: January 2017

As a part of a research program aiming to mobilize marine gas hydrate deposits as an energy resource, the worlds' first gas production attempt was performed in early 2013 in the Daini Atsumi Knoll, Eastern Nankai Trough, off Honshu Island, Japan.
Utilizing super-atom orbital ideas to understand properties of silver clusters inside ZSM-5 zeolite
Authors: Yumura Takashi , Kumondai Mitsuhiro , Kuroda Yasushige , Wakasugi Takashi , Kobayashi Hisayoshi
Published: January 2017

The energetic properties of Agnclusters in ZSM-5 zeolite, obtained from density functional theory (DFT) calculations with the B3PW91 functional, can be well understood by utilizing super-atom orbital ideas.
Efficient esterification of n-butanol with acetic acid catalyzed by the Brönsted acidic ionic liquids: influence of acidity
Authors: Lunagariya Jignesh , Dhar Abhishek , Vekariya Rohit L.
Published: January 2017

BAILs having different structures and their related acidities have been investigated for their role in the esterification of n-butanol with acetic acid, and it was found that IL-5 containing double –SO3H groups exhibits excellent catalytic activity.
Stable ambipolar organic–inorganic heterojunction field-effect transistors and inverters with Cytop interlayer
Authors: Sun Sheng , Lan Linfeng , Li Yuzhi , Ning Honglong , Yao Rihui , Wang Lei , Peng Junbiao
Published: January 2017

In this study, ambipolar field-effect transistors (FETs) based on organic–inorganic bilayer structures were investigated.
A hydrophilicity-based fluorescent strategy to differentiate cysteine/homocysteine over glutathione both in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Peng Xiaoman , Yuan Hua , Xu Jian , Lu Fengxian , Wang Liangqian , Guo Xudong , Wang Shuangqing , Li Shayu , Li Yi , Yang Guoqiang
Published: January 2017

An easily-prepared probe/nanogel composite indicator HTBNM/PU showed selective fluorescence responses to cysteine/homocysteine over glutathione both in vivo and in vitro.
Fabrication of two-layer dissolving polyvinylpyrrolidone microneedles with different molecular weights for in vivo insulin transdermal delivery
Authors: Lee I.-Chi , Wu Yu-Chieh , Tsai Shau-Wei , Chen Chih-Hao , Wu Min-Hsien
Published: January 2017

Fabrication of two-layer dissolving polyvinylpyrrolidone microneedles for in vivo insulin transdermal delivery.
A theoretical study on the electronic and photophysical properties of two series of iridium(iii) complexes with different substituted N^N ligand
Authors: Shang Xiaohong , Han Deming , Liu Mei , Zhang Gang
Published: January 2017

The density functional theory has been applied to explore the geometrical, electronic and photophysical properties of the recently reported pyrazolyl-pyridine- or triazolyl-pyridine-containing iridium(iii) complexes 1 and 2.
Cross C–S coupling reaction catalyzed by copper(i) N-heterocyclic carbene complexes
Authors: Huang Wei-Kai , Chen Wei-Ting , Hsu I.-Jui , Han Chien-Chung , Shyu Shin-Guang
Published: January 2017

Copper(i) N-heterocyclic carbenes catalyze the cross C–S coupling reaction with good activities towards aryl halides. A plausible catalytic cycle is proposed, with the support of DFT calculation.
Facile preparation of 1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocane/glycidylazide polymer energetic nanocomposites with enhanced thermolysis activity and low impact sensitivity
Authors: Chen Teng , Jiang Wei , Du Ping , Liu Jie , Hao Gazi , Gao Han , Xiao Lei , Ke Xiang
Published: January 2017

HMX/GAP nanocomposites showed high thermal reactivity and low sensitivity, which could be a very promising ingredient in composite solid propellant.
Observation of large coercivities in radial carbon nanotube structures filled with Fe3C and FeCo single-crystals by viscous boundary layer pyrolysis of ferrocene and cobaltocene
Authors: Guo Jian , Liu Jiaxun , Lan Mu , Hu Yuzhong , Wang Shanling , Wen Jiqiu , He Yi , Gao Fuhua , Zhang Xi , Zhang Sijie , Xiang Gang , Willis Maureen A. C. , Boi Filippo S.
Published: January 2017

Viscous boundary layer chemical vapor synthesis is a novel technique that uses the viscous boundary layer between a metallocene/Ar vapor and a rough surface to induce the formation of radial CNT structures highly filled with ferromagnetic materials.
Combined biomaterial signals stimulate communications between bone marrow stromal cell and endothelial cell
Authors: Xu Yachen , Wu Zhi , Dong Xin , Li Haiyan
Published: January 2017

Combined chemical and structural signals of biomaterials stimulate communications between bone marrow stromal cell and endothelial cell.
Two-photon absorption in penicillamine capped CdS tetrapods
Authors: Wawrzyńczyk D.
Published: January 2017

Synthesized penicillamine stabilized CdS tetrapods showed two-photon absorption in a wavelength range between 600 and 850 nm, and strong two-photon excited emission upon near infrared excitation. These water soluble colloidal, semiconducting nanoparticles show potential for applications in nonlinear bioimaging.
Color-tunable persistent luminescence in oxyfluoride glass and glass ceramic containing Mn2+:α-Zn2SiO4 nanocrystals
Authors: Hu Tao , Lin Hang , Xu Ju , Wang Bo , Wang Jiaomei , Wang Yuansheng
Published: January 2017

A new kind of persistent oxyfluoride glass and glass ceramic potentially applicable to night-vision illumination and indication.
Thiol-Michael addition in polar aprotic solvents: nucleophilic initiation or base catalysis?
Authors: Desmet Gilles B. , Sabbe Maarten. K. , D'hooge Dagmar. R. , Espeel Pieter , Celasun Sensu , Marin Guy B. , Du Prez Filip E. , Reyniers Marie-Françoise
Published: January 2017

The thiol-Michael addition of ethanethiol to ethyl acrylate, methyl vinylsulfone and maleimide initiated by ethyl-, diethyl-, triethylamine and triethylphosphine in tetrahydrofuran (THF) is investigated at room temperature.
Large tunneling anisotropic magnetoresistance in La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/pentacene/Cu structures prepared on SrTiO3 (110) substrates
Authors: Kamiya Takeshi , Miyahara Chihiro , Tada Hirokazu
Published: January 2017

We investigated tunneling anisotropic magnetoresistance (TAMR) at the interface between pentacene and La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO) thin films prepared on SrTiO3 (STO) (110) substrates. The dependence of the TAMR ratio on the magnetic field strength was approximately ten times larger than that of the magnetic field angle at a high magnetic field. This large difference in the TAMR ratio is explained by the interface magnetic anisotropy of strain-induced LSMO thin films on a STO (110) substrate, which has an easy axis with an out-of-plane component. We also note that the TAMR owing to out-of-plane magnetization was positive at each angle of the in-plane magnetic field. This result implies that active control of the interface magnetic anisotropy between organic materials and ferromagnetic metals should realize nonvolatile and high-efficiency TAMR devices.
Ab initio and experimental studies of polarization and polarization related fields in nitrides and nitride structures
Authors: Strak Pawel , Kempisty Pawel , Sakowski Konrad , Kaminska Agata , Jankowski Dawid , Korona Krzysztof P. , Sobczak Kamil , Borysiuk Jolanta , Beeler Mark , Grzanka Ewa , Monroy Eva , Krukowski Stanislaw
Published: January 2017

Spontaneous and piezoelectric polarization in the nitrides is analyzed. The slab model was designed and proved to be appropriate to obtain the spontaneous polarization in AlN, GaN and InN. The spontaneous polarization and polarization related electric fields in AlN, GaN and InN were determined using DFT slab calculations. The procedure generates single value of spontaneous polarization in the nitrides. It was shown that Berry phase polarization may be applied to determination of spontaneous polarization by appropriate addition of polarization induced electric fields. The electric fields obtained from slab model are consistent with the Berry phase results of Bernardini et al. The obtained spontaneous polarization values are: 8.69*10-3 C/m2, 1.88*10-3 C/m2, and 1.96*10-3 C/m2 for AlN, GaN and InN respectively. The related Berry phase polarization values are 8.69*10-2 C/m2, 1.92*10-2 C/m2, and 2.86*10-2 C/m2, for these three compounds, respectively. The GaN/AlN multiquantum wells (MQWs) were simulated using ab intio calculations. The obtained electric fields are in good agreement with those derived from bulk polarization values. GaN/AlN MQWs structures, obtained by MBE growth were characterized by TEM and X-ray measurements. Time dependent photoluminescence measurements were used to determine optical transition energies in these structures. The PL obtained energies are in good agreement with ab initio data confirming overall agreement between theoretical and experimental data.
Spin wave interference in YIG cross junction
Authors: Balinskiy M. , Gutierrez D. , Chiang H. , Filimonov Y. , Kozhevnikov A. , Khitun A.
Published: January 2017

This work is aimed at studying the interference between backward volume magnetostatic spin waves and magnetostatic surface spin waves in a magnetic cross junction. These two types of magnetostatic waves possess different dispersion with zero frequency overlap in infinite magnetic films. However, the interference may be observed in finite structures due to the effect magnetic shape anisotropy. We report experimental data on spin wave interference in a micrometer size Y3Fe2(FeO4)3 cross junction. There are four micro antennas fabricated at the edges of the cross arms. Two of these antennas located on the orthogonal arms are used for spin wave generation, and the other two antennas are used for the inductive voltage detection. The phase difference between the input signals is controlled by the phase shifter. Prominent spin wave interference is observed at the selected combination of operational frequency and bias magnetic field. The maximum On/Off ratio exceeds 30dB at room temperature. The obtained results are important for a variety of magnetic devices based on spin wave interference.
Climatically driven change in soil carbon across a basalt landscape is restricted to non-agricultural land use systems
Authors: Wilson Brian R. , King Dacre , Growns Ivor , Veeragathipillai Manoharan
Published: January 2017

Soils represent a significant component of the global terrestrial carbon cycle. Historical soil carbon depletion resulting from soil and land management offers an opportunity to store additional carbon to offset greenhouse gas emissions as part of our international response to climate change. However, our ability to reliably measure, estimate and predict soil carbon storage is hindered by a range of sources of variability, not least of which is change through time. In the present study, we assessed temporal changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) and its component fractions in response to climate alone and in the absence of land use change at any given site by examining a series of soil monitoring sites across a basalt landscape in north-west New South Wales under a range of land use types over a 3-year period (March–April 2008 and March–April 2011), where a significant rainfall event had occurred in the intervening time (2010). Across the dataset, woodland soils contained the largest carbon concentration (SOC%) and total organic carbon stock (TOCs) compared with other non-wooded land use systems, which themselves were statistically similar. However, larger carbon quantities were restricted largely to the surface (0–10cm) soil layers. Between 2008 and 2011, significant increases in SOC% and TOCs were detected, but again these were restricted to the woodland sites. No change in particulate organic carbon (POC) was detected between the two sampling times, but both humic organic carbon (HOC) and resistant organic carbon (ROC) increased in woodland soils between the two sampling times. Increased HOC we attribute to microbial processing of soil carbon following the 2010–11 rainfall event. However, we suggest that increased ROC results from limitations in mid-infrared calibration datasets and estimations. We conclude that the quantity of soil carbon and its component fractions is, indeed, driven by climatic factors, but that these effects are moderated by aboveground land use and SOC inputs.
Novel approach to fabricate a stable superhydrophobic polycarbonate
Authors: Sabry Raad S. , Al-Mosawi Muntazer I.
Published: January 2017

A novel approach to fabricating a stable superhydrophobic PC using a phase separation method and selecting a solvent/non-solvent without requiring any surface chemical modification and high chemical stability was proposed in this paper. A systematic study of the dependence of surface morphology on the acetone/DMF solvent mixture treatment was conducted. Resulting surfaces demonstrated that the water CA of the superhydrophobic PC surface was 160±2°. FESEM showed that the surface structure comprised branches or petals outside the ‘plant seabeds’, which have microflowers that offer nanoscaled roughness on the surface with a hierarchical micro-/nano-binary formation. All samples were maintained at 10–40°C in ambient atmosphere for 5 h to 4 months to test the stability of the surface. The CAs were measured for each condition with very little change observed. In addition, the PC surface remained superhydrophobic without any contamination after water was sprayed on it.
Achieving Durable Resistance Against Plant Diseases: Scenario Analyses with a National-Scale Spatially Explicit Model for a Wind-Dispersed Plant Pathogen
Authors: Elisabeth Lof Marjolein , de Vallavieille-Pope Claude , van der Werf Wopke
Published: January 2017

Genetic resistance in crops is a cornerstone of disease management in agriculture. Such genetic resistance is often rapidly broken due to selection for virulence in the pathogen population. Here, we ask whether there are strategies that can prolong the useful life of plant resistance genes. In a modeling study, we compared four deployment strategies: gene pyramiding, sequential use, simultaneous use, and a mixed strategy. We developed a spatially explicit model for France and parameterized it for the fungal pathogen Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (causing wheat yellow rust) to test management strategies in a realistic spatial setting. We found that pyramiding two new resistance genes in one variety was the most durable solution only when the virulent genotype had to emerge by mutation. Deploying single-gene-resistant varieties concurrently with the pyramided variety eroded the durability of the gene pyramid. We found that continuation of deployment of varieties with broken-down resistance prolonged the useful life of simultaneous deployment of four single-gene-resistant varieties versus sequential use. However, when virulence was already present in the pathogen population, durability was low and none of the deployment strategies had effect. These results provide guidance on effective strategies for using resistance genes in crop protection practice.
Salvage of Lesser Toes Deformities: “Revision Forefoot”
Authors: Nery Caio , Baumfeld Daniel
Published: January 2017

Deformity of the digits and lesser metatarsals is a common surgical problem presenting to the foot and ankle surgeon. Although elective operative management is usually straightforward, even the most routine cases carry the risk of surgical complication, spanning from the simple to the devastating. Most often, it is difficult to determine the exact cause of failure in surgical treatment of lesser toe deformities. Some possibilities are: inadequate surgical procedure; choosing inadequate surgical technique; complications related to the surgical procedure; underestimation of the inherent risks and unrealistic expectations. This paper describes the authors’ approach to failed lesser toes surgical treatment. It presents a particular view of the problems resulting from lesser toes surgery, and an emphasis on revision operative procedures.

Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
New Developments in Robotics and Single-site Gynecologic Surgery
Authors: MATTHEWS CATHERINE A.
Published: January 2017

Within the last 10 years there have been significant advances in minimal-access surgery. Although no emerging technology has demonstrated improved outcomes or fewer complications than standard laparoscopy, the introduction of the robotic surgical platform has significantly lowered abdominal hysterectomy rates. While operative time and cost were higher in robotic-assisted procedures when the technology was first introduced, newer studies demonstrate equivalent or improved robotic surgical efficiency with increased experience. Single-port hysterectomy has not improved postoperative pain or subjective cosmetic results. Emerging platforms with flexible, articulating instruments may increase the uptake of single-port procedures including natural orifice transluminal endoscopic cases.
SUBRETINAL CELL-BASED THERAPY
Authors: Wilson David J. , Neuringer Martha , Stoddard Jonathan , Renner Lauren M. , Bailey Steven , Lauer Andreas , McGill Trevor J.
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To develop a novel surgical approach to provide consistent delivery of cell suspension into the subretinal space without cell leakage into the vitreous.

Methods:

Cell viability was assessed following mock injections to determine the optimal size cannula for delivery of the cells. A pars plana without vitrectomy approach was used to create a subretinal bleb with balanced salt solution using a 41-gauge cannula. GFP-labeled retinal pigment epithelium cells were injected through transretinal (n = 8) and transscleral (n = 16) injection approaches. Optical coherence tomography, fundus photography and autofluorescence, and histological analysis were used to evaluate surgical success.

Results:

The 30-gauge cannula yielded the highest recovery of cells with highest viability. The transretinal approach consistently resulted in transplanted cells in the vitreous, with some cells coming to rest on the inner limiting membrane. Conversely, the transscleral approach resulted in transplantation of cells into the subretinal space in 100% of cases. Histological analysis confirmed these results.

Conclusion:

We have developed a novel surgical approach that resulted in encapsulation of transplanted cells into the subretinal space with a 100% success rate. This approach will provide a useful tool for further cell transplantation study and may provide an approach for clinical application of delivering cells to the subretinal space.
NOVEL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FOR COMBINED HAMARTOMA OF THE RETINA AND RETINAL PIGMENT EPITHELIUM
Authors: Dedania Vaidehi S. , Ozgonul Cem , Zacks David N. , Besirli Cagri G.
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To develop an anatomical classification scheme for combined hamartoma of the retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and specify recommendations for follow-up interval.

Methods:

Retrospective review of patients with combined hamartoma of the retina and RPE examined during a 7-year period (2008–2015). The clinical presentation, fundus examination, and optical coherence tomography were analyzed.

Results:

Lesions were classified based on location, fundus features, and optical coherence tomography findings. Lesion location: macular/peripapillary—Zone 1; mid-periphery—Zone 2; and far periphery—Zone 3. Associated fundus findings: no retinal traction—Stage 1; retinal traction and/or retinoschisis—Stage 2; and retinal detachment—Stage 3. Optical coherence tomography findings: epiretinal component only—A; partial retinal involvement—B; and complete retinal and RPE involvement—C. Complete ophthalmologic evaluation is recommended at least every 6 months for patients younger than 12 years, with more frequent follow-up in patients with: lesions in the macula/peripapillary (Zone 1) or with retinal traction, retinoschisis, or retinal detachment (Stage 2 and 3). Surgical intervention is recommended in patients with vision loss secondary to macular traction or retinal detachment.

Conclusion:

A new clinical classification system is proposed for evaluating and managing patients with combined hamartoma of the retina and RPE. The zone and stage of combined hamartoma of the retina and RPE lesion will assist in determining follow-up interval and surgical intervention. Application of a uniform classification scheme will facilitate assessment and comparison of findings across different studies.