bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-speed maskless nanolithography with visible light based on photothermal localization
Authors: Wei Jingsong , Zhang Kui , Wei Tao , Wang Yang , Wu Yiqun , Xiao Mufei
Published: March 2017

High-speed maskless nanolithography is experimentally achieved on AgInSbTe thin films. The lithography was carried out in air at room temperature, with a GaN diode laser (λ = 405 nm), and on a large sample disk of diameter 120 mm. The normal width of the written features measures 46 ± 5 nm, about 1/12 of the diffraction allowed smallest light spot, and the lithography speed reaches 6 ~ 8 m/s, tens of times faster than traditional laser writing methods. The writing resolution is instantaneously tunable by adjusting the laser power. The reason behind the significant breakthrough in terms of writing resolution and speed is found as the concentration of light induced heat. Therefore, the heat spot is far smaller than the light spot, so does the size of the written features. Such a sharp focus of heat occurs only on the selected writing material, and the phenomenon is referred as the photothermal localization response. The physics behind the effect is explained and supported with numerical simulations.
Stabilized lithium-ion battery anode performance by calcium-bridging of two dimensional siloxene layers
Authors: Imagawa Haruo , Itahara Hiroshi
Published: March 2017

A Ca-bridged siloxene exhibits stable charge/discharge capacity as a lithium-ion battery anode, suggesting the structural stability of Si-planes with Si6H6.
Quasi-1D chains of dinickel lantern complexes and their magnetic properties
Authors: Nimthong-Roldán Arunpatcha , Guillet Jesse L. , McNeely James , Ozumerzifon Tarik J. , Shores Matthew P. , Golen James A. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Doerrer Linda H.
Published: March 2017

Four new quasi-1D Ni2lantern chain complexes of the form [Ni2(SOCR)4(L)]∞were prepared withN,N′-donor bridging ligands pyrazine and DABCO.
Mechanism of C–C bond formation in the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to acetic acid. A challenging reaction to use renewable energy with chemistry
Authors: Genovese Chiara , Ampelli Claudio , Perathoner Siglinda , Centi Gabriele
Published: March 2017

A study on the mechanism of C–C bond formation in the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to acetic acid with Cu/CNT electrocatalysts.
Experimental identification and computational characterization of a novel extracellular metalloproteinase produced by Clostridium sordellii
Authors: Aldape Michael J. , Tao Aoxiang , Heeney Dustin D. , McIndoo Eric R. , French John M. , Xu Dong
Published: March 2017

The open (white, green)vs.closed (purple, cyan) structures ofClostridium sordelliimetalloproteinase.
Tribological properties of WS2/graphene nanocomposites as lubricating oil additives
Authors: Zheng Dan , Wu Yan-ping , Li Zheng-yang , Cai Zhen-bing
Published: March 2017

Comparison of the lubricating mechanisms of nano-additives (graphene, WS2 nanoparticles, and WS2/graphene nanocomposites) was carried out using a simplified polar coordinate method.
Non-ionic self-assembling amphiphilic polyester dendrimers as new drug delivery excipients
Authors: Sikwal Dhiraj R. , Kalhapure Rahul S. , Jadhav Mahantesh , Rambharose Sanjeev , Mocktar Chunderika , Govender Thirumala
Published: March 2017

Solubility enhancement of poorly soluble antibiotics via self-assembling nano systems could be a promising approach to effectively treat bacterial infections in the current scenario of evolving resistant species.
Characterization of the biosorption properties of dormant spores of Aspergillus niger: a potential breakthrough agent for removing Cu2+ from contaminated water
Authors: Wang Jing-Yao , Cui Chong-Wei
Published: March 2017

The biosorption capacity of Aspergillus niger spores for Cu2+ was found to be 25.3 mg g−1, which was two times higher than that of its mycelium (10.1 mg g−1).
Lanthanide-doped Sr2ScF7 nanocrystals: controllable hydrothermal synthesis, the growth mechanism and tunable up/down conversion luminescence properties
Authors: Zhao Bei , Shen Dingyi , Yang Jun , Hu Shanshan , Zhou Xianju , Tang Jianfeng
Published: March 2017

Sr2ScF7 micro/nanocrystals with various morphologies were firstly synthesized via a one-step surfactant-free hydrothermal route. Sr2ScF7:Yb3+/Er3+/Tm3+ phosphors show tunable RGB and white emissions.
Photocatalytic water oxidation by persulphate with a Ca2+ ion-incorporated polymeric cobalt cyanide complex affording O2 with 200% quantum efficiency
Authors: Yamada Yusuke , Oyama Kohei , Suenobu Tomoyoshi , Fukuzumi Shunichi
Published: March 2017

Incorporation of a small amount of Ca2+ ions into a polymeric cobalt cyanide complex enhanced the activity for photocatalytic water oxidation by persulphate with [Ru(bpy)3]2+ at pH 7.0 to achieve a maximum quantum efficiency of 200%.
Extended dipyrrin ligands: candidates for optical metal ion detection under competitive conditions
Authors: Guski S. , Albrecht M. , Willms T. , Albrecht M. , Nabeshima T. , Pan F. , Puttreddy R. , Rissanen K.
Published: March 2017

Extended acyl hydrazine based dipyrrine ligands lead to a specific colour response upon addition of metal ions.
Dielectric relaxation and localized electron hopping in colossal dielectric (Nb,In)-doped TiO2 rutile nanoceramics
Authors: Tsuji Kosuke , Han HyukSu , Guillemet-Fritsch Sophie , Randall Clive A.
Published: March 2017

The large dielectric relaxation and the frequency-dependent a.c. conductance were successfully explained by a modified electron hopping model.
Magnetic trapping of SH radicals
Authors: Eardley J. S. , Warner N. , Deng L. Z. , Carty D. , Wrede E.
Published: March 2017

Magnetic trapping of SH radicals, produced via the photostop technique, has been demonstrated.
The effect of interligand energy transfer on the emission spectra of heteroleptic Ir complexes
Authors: Cho Yang-Jin , Kim So-Yoen , Son Ho-Jin , Cho Dae Won , Kang Sang Ook
Published: March 2017

Heteroleptic Ir3+ complexes with luminescent ancillary ligands showed broad and red-shifted emissions owing to ILET, which was affected by the energy differences between the main and ancillary ligands, the temperature, and the rigidity of the environment.
Analysis of crystallographic structures of Ni(ii) complexes of α-amino acid Schiff bases: elucidation of the substituent effect on stereochemical preferences
Authors: Nian Yong , Wang Jiang , Moriwaki Hiroki , Soloshonok Vadim A. , Liu Hong
Published: March 2017

This work disclosed the significance of a parallel displaced type of aromatic interactions between o-amino-benzophenone and N-benzyl rings in Ni(ii) complexes.
The structural diversity of halogen-centered secondary building units: two new mixed-metal borate halides with deep-ultraviolet cut-off edges
Authors: Mutailipu Miriding , Zhang Min , Chen Yanna , Lu Xiaoquan , Pan Shilie
Published: March 2017

Categories of halogen-centered SBUs were investigated among borates to elaborate the role of halogen to enrich the structural diversity of borates.
[PhSiO1.5]8,10,12as nanoreactors for non-enzymatic introduction of ortho, meta or para-hydroxyl groups to aromatic molecules
Authors: Bahrami Mozhgan , Zhang Xingwen , Ehsani Morteza , Jahani Yousef , Laine Richard M.
Published: March 2017

Traditional electrophilic bromination follows long established “rules”: electron-withdrawing substituents cause bromination selective formetapositions, whereas electron-donating substituents favororthoandparabromination.
De novo design of a hydrolytic DNA cleavage agent, mono nitratobis(phen)cobalt(ii) aqua nitrate complex
Authors: Sharma Surbhi , Toupet Loic , Arjmand Farukh
Published: March 2017

Demonstration of DNA intercalation and hydrolytic cleavage by complex1.
Intramolecular macrolactonization, photophysical and biological studies of new class of polycyclic pyrrole derivatives
Authors: Mondal Suresh Kumar , Mandal Arabinda , Manna Susanta Kumar , Ali Sk Asraf , Hossain Maidul , Venugopal Vangala , Jana Avijit , Samanta Shubhankar
Published: March 2017

Herein, we report an efficient synthesis of N-substituted pyrrole derivatives and their application to construct macrocyclic oxazocinone.
Shape memory polymer foams prepared from a heparin-inspired polyurethane/urea
Authors: Chai Q. , Huang Y. , Kirley T. L. , Ayres N.
Published: March 2017

Shape memory foams have been prepared using a heparin-inspired polyurea/urethane that displays excellent resistance to platelet adherence.
Carbon supported Rh nanoparticles for the production of hydrogen and chemicals by the electroreforming of biomass-derived alcohols
Authors: Pagliaro Maria Vincenza , Bellini Marco , Bevilacqua Manuela , Filippi Jonathan , Folliero Maria Gelsomina , Marchionni Andrea , Miller Hamish Andrew , Oberhauser Werner , Caporali Stefano , Innocenti Massimo , Vizza Francesco
Published: March 2017

An electrolyzer assembled with a Rh/C nanostructured anode electrode, promotes the partial oxidation of alcohols and high-purity hydrogen evolution in alkaline media at low energy input.
SERS-based immunoassay on 2D-arrays of Au@Ag core–shell nanoparticles: influence of the sizes of the SERS probe and sandwich immunocomplex on the sensitivity
Authors: Karn-orachai Kullavadee , Sakamoto Kenji , Laocharoensuk Rawiwan , Bamrungsap Suwussa , Dharakul Tararaj , Miki Kazushi
Published: March 2017

The sensitivity of immunoassay performed on SERS-active substrates can be improved by optimizing the size of SERS probes and also by decreasing the size of sandwich immunocomplex.
Facile preparation of a Na2MnSiO4/C/graphene composite as a high performance cathode for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Zhu Hai , Wang Juntao , Liu Xiaoling , Zhu Xiaoming
Published: March 2017

A new class of Na2MnSiO4/C/G composite exhibits outstanding electrochemical properties when used as a cathode material for Na ion batteries.
Obvious modulation of rectifying performance by conjugation breaking of the bridging fragment in donor–bridge–acceptor molecular diodes
Authors: Su Wen-Xia , Zuo Xi , Xie Zhen , Zhang Guang-Ping , Wang Chuan-Kui
Published: March 2017

Large modulation of rectifying performance is obtained by breaking conjugation of the bridging fragment in donor–bridge–acceptor molecular diodes.
Supramolecular catalysis in the methylation of meta-phenylene ethynylene foldamer containing N,N-dimethylaminopyridine
Authors: Xu Lina , Fang Guoyong , Li Shuhua
Published: March 2017

DFT investigations show that the methylation reaction of N,N-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP)-modified meta-phenylene ethynylene foldamer can be catalyzed by the noncovalent interactions between the foldamer and the methyl sulfonate esters.
Chemical bonding at the metal–organic framework/metal oxide interface: simulated epitaxial growth of MOF-5 on rutile TiO2
Authors: Bristow Jessica K. , Butler Keith T. , Svane Katrine L. , Gale Julian D. , Walsh Aron
Published: March 2017

Thin-film deposition of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is now possible, but little is known regarding the microscopic nature of hybrid hetero-interfaces.
A black/red phosphorus hybrid as an electrode material for high-performance Li-ion batteries and supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Xinhang , Xu Guanghua , Ren Xiaohui , Li Zhongjun , Qi Xiang , Huang Kai , Zhang Han , Huang Zongyu , Zhong Jianxin
Published: March 2017

A single elemental hybrid composed of black phosphorus (BP) and red phosphorus (RP) is synthesized via a feasible sonochemical method.
A Mn3O4 nano-wall array based binder-free cathode for high performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Guo Junling , Zhang Xiaolong , Du Xinyu , Zhang Fengxiang
Published: March 2017

Nano-sheet array structured, highly stable Mn3O4 (compared with MnO2) provides long-lasting suppression of polysulfide shuttle in lithium sulfur batteries.
Enhancement of the H2 evolution activity of La5Ti2Cu(S1−xSex)5O7 photocatalysts by coloading Pt and NiS cocatalysts
Authors: Nandy Swarnava , Hisatomi Takashi , Ma Guijun , Minegishi Tsutomu , Katayama Masao , Domen Kazunari
Published: March 2017

Coloading of Pt and NiS cocatalysts enhanced the hydrogen evolution activity of La5Ti2Cu(S1−xSex)5O7 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.6) solid solution photocatalysts more effectively than the individual loadings of each of the two cocatalysts.
Modified chalcogens with a tuned nano-architecture for high energy density and long life hybrid super capacitors
Authors: Abureden Salah , Hassan Fathy M. , Lui Gregory , Sy Serubbabel , Batmaz Rasim , Ahn Wook , Yu Aiping , Chen Zhongwei
Published: March 2017

A novel in situ vanadium-modified NiCo2S4 wrapped with graphene sheets was synthesized using a simple solvothermal technique.
MnO2/MnCo2O4/Ni heterostructure with quadruple hierarchy: a bifunctional electrode architecture for overall urea oxidation
Authors: Xiao Changlong , Li Shuni , Zhang Xinyi , MacFarlane Douglas R.
Published: March 2017

A bifunctional core–shell structured MnO2/MnCo2O4/Ni electrode with quadruple-hierarchy has been developed for highly efficient overall urea electrolysis.
Aging Effect on Categorical Perception of Mandarin Tones 2 and 3 and Thresholds of Pitch Contour Discrimination
Authors: Wang Yuxia , Yang Xiaohu , Zhang Hui , Xu Lilong , Xu Can , Liu Chang
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to examine the aging effect on the categorical perception of Mandarin Chinese Tone 2 (rising F0 pitch contour) and Tone 3 (falling-then-rising F0 pitch contour) as well as on the thresholds of pitch contour discrimination.

Method

Three experiments of Mandarin tone perception were conducted for younger and older listeners with Mandarin Chinese as the native language. The first 2 experiments were in the categorical perception paradigm: tone identification and tone discrimination for a series of stimuli, the F0 contour of which systematically varied from Tone 2 to Tone 3. In the third experiment, the just-noticeable differences of pitch contour discrimination were measured for both groups.

Results

In the measures of categorical perception, older listeners showed significantly shallower slopes in the tone identification function and significantly smaller peakedness in the tone discrimination function compared with younger listeners. Moreover, the thresholds of pitch contour discrimination were significantly higher for older listeners than for younger listeners.

Conclusion

These results suggest that aging reduced the categoricality of Mandarin tone perception and worsened the psychoacoustic capacity to discriminate pitch contour changes, thereby possibly leading to older listeners' difficulty in identifying Tones 2 and 3.
Spatially mutual coupling reduction between CP‐MIMO antennas using FSS superstrate
Authors: Akbari M. , Ali M.M. , Farahani M. , Sebak A.R. , Denidni T.
Published: March 2017

A new approach to suppress mutual coupling of spatial electromagnetic fields between two circularly polarised (CP) antennas using frequency selective surface (FSS) technique around 30 GHz is presented. The transmission‐type FSS layer with the CP capability is placed on the top of two closely multiple‐input, multiple‐output (MIMO) antennas. The study shows that the FSS layer can suppress an average of 10 dB mutual coupling between two adjacent CP‐MIMO antennas. The proposed technique does not degrade the impedance and radiation performance of the antenna in comparison with the antenna without FSS layer. The two‐port CP antennas are fabricated and measured to validate the simulation results. Good agreement is achieved between simulated and measured results in terms of the reflection coefficient, mutual coupling, and axial ratio.
Methodology to assess distribution transformer thermal capacity for uptake of low carbon technologies
Authors: Gao Yuan , Patel Beval , Liu Qiang , Wang Zhongdong , Bryson Geraldine
Published: March 2017

Low‐voltage network is concerned on the penetration of low carbon technologies. Distribution transformer thermal capacity is one of the most concerned, due to the aged and capital‐intensive nature of the transformer fleet. Extensive studies have been done on this topic, and most of them have applied exiting thermal models such as IEC 60076 thermal model to estimate the hot‐spot temperature (HST). However, it is lack of consideration on how accurate the thermal model is or how to refine the thermal model for more accurate estimation of HST. In this study, a methodology is introduced to improve the accuracy of IEC thermal model by refining its thermal parameters based on measured temperature data during the heat run test. Verification of the methodology under one 1 MVA 6.6/0.415 kV distribution transformer shows that the accuracy of predicting the HST is improved by reducing the maximum error from 25.8 to 3.6 K under constant loads and 8.15 to 4.16 K under cyclic loads. Also, a worst‐case scenario study under the penetration of electric vehicles (EVs) shows the maximum penetration level of EVs is improved by 9% by applying refined thermal parameters to estimate the HST of the distribution transformer.
Implementation and performance evaluation of a harmonic filter for use in adaptive single‐phase reclosing
Authors: Dias Ozenir , Tavares Maria Cristina
Published: March 2017

This study presents an adaptive single‐phase reclosing method based on voltage harmonic measurement implemented in a digital harmonic filter. This filter and the transmission system were modelled in a real‐time digital simulator. A distance relay was used for protection and reclosing, responding as if it was in field operation. The studied system was based on an actual 500 kV Brazilian system. This study highlights the advantages of using the adaptive technique with a digital harmonic filter.
Approach for smart meter load profiling in Monte Carlo simulation applications
Authors: Khan Zafar A. , Jayaweera Dilan
Published: March 2017

Smart grids introduce new technological elements into power systems which take prevalent challenges to a new level by shaping parameters of power systems towards a complex regime of uncertainties. Rapid proliferation of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) and integration of renewable energy sources in smart grids increase system‐wide complexities. This study proposes an innovative approach to classify the energy consumptions of smart meter customers with typical profiles by processing with multi‐layered clustering of energy consumption data of smart consumers extracted from the AMI. There are two stages for the approach of which the first stage analyses the data for intra‐cluster similarity of energy consumption patterns and in case the patterns do not have a high intra‐cluster similarity, they are fed back for re‐clustering with multi‐layered clustering process until the clearly identifiable energy patterns with high intra‐cluster similarity is obtained. The second stage linearises the complex energy patterns using interpolant and curve fitting techniques until stabilised profiles are obtained. This study also proposes a methodology for smart meter load modelling for Monte Carlo (MC) simulation applications to reduce the computing time compared with traditional alternatives. This study validates the robustness of the approach and provides the corroboration of the method for MC simulation applications in a smart grid environment.
Electrospinning of aligned medical grade polyurethane nanofibres and evaluation of cell–scaffold interaction using SHED stem cells
Authors: Yekrang Javad , Semnani Dariush , Beigi Mohammad H. , Karbasi Saeed
Published: March 2017

Polyurethane (PU) nanofibres are widely used in tissue engineering of elastic tissues such as tendon and ligament, vascular and arterial grafts etc. Alignment of the PU nanofibres is also a desirable property of some tissues to mimic the morphology of the extracellular matrix. Elasthane™ 55D nanofibres were produced using a common electrospinning method and a rotating drum to collect the aligned fibres. Four flow rates and five collector speeds were investigated for their effects on nanofibres alignment and diameter. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images of nanofibrous webs were captured, and the diameter and alignment of the nanofibres were measured. Finally, stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous tooth (SHED) were seeded on the surface of the PU nanofibres to investigate the cell–scaffold interaction. Statistical results showed that the flow rate had a significant effect on the fibres diameter. Enhancing the flow rate led to increasing the diameter of the PU nanofibres. The results showed that the fibres alignment index was promoted by increasing the rotating speed of the collector. In addition, the morphological observation of SEM images indicated that cells grew in the alignment direction of the nanofibres. The results of this study can be applicable to produce and control the aligned PU nanofibres for specific applications such as vascular grafts, esophagus prosthesis, arterial grafts and tissue engineering of tendon and ligament.
In Situ Splitting of a Rib Bone Graft for Reconstruction of Orbital Floor and Medial Wall
Authors: Uemura Tetsuji , Yanai Tetsu , Yasuta Masato , Harada Yoshimi , Morikawa Aya , Watanabe Hidetaka , Kurokawa Masato
Published: March 2017

In situ splitting of rib bone graft was conducted in 22 patients for the repair of orbital fracture with no other complicating fractures. A bone graft was harvested from the sixth or seventh rib in the right side. The repair of the orbital floor and medial wall was successful in all the cases. Ten patients had bone grafting to the orbital floor, eight had it done onto medial wall, and 4 onto both floor and wall after reduction. The mean length of in situ rib bone graft was 40.9 mm (range, 20–70 mm), the mean width of these was 14.9 mm (range, 8–20 mm). The bone grafting was done by one leaf for 15 cases and two leafs for 7 cases in size of defects. The technique of in situ splitting of a rib bone graft for the repair of the orbital floor and medial wall is a simple and safe procedure, easily taking out the in situ splitting of a rib, and less pain in donor site. It has proved to be an optimal choice in craniofacial reconstruction, especially the defects of orbital floor and medial wall.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection Is a Risk Factor for Unplanned Return to the Operating Room in the Surgical Treatment of a Septic Knee
Authors: Costales Timothy , Greenwell Patrick , Christian Matthew , Henn Ralph , Jaffe David
Published: March 2017

Surgical irrigation and debridement is the mainstay of treatment after the diagnosis of a septic knee. Arthroscopic treatment has been validated as a treatment option, but there is limited literature comparing it to an open arthrotomy regarding risk factors for failing single-stage surgical treatment. A retrospective review of surgically treated native adult septic knees at one urban tertiary care center was conducted to evaluate rates of unplanned return to the operating room (OR) following both arthroscopic and open treatment of an adult septic knee. The primary outcome studied was unplanned return to the OR for persistent infection within 4 months of the initial surgery. Demographics, laboratory, and microbiology data were collected to identify factors associated with unplanned return visits to the OR. Fisher's exact tests and two-tailed paired Student's t-tests were used for categorical and continuous data comparisons, respectively. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors of initial washout failure. Thirty-three patients underwent arthroscopy and 47 had open arthrotomy. Eight failed arthroscopy and nine failed open treatment (75.8 and 80.9% success rates, p = 0.59). Unplanned repeat washouts in arthroscopically treated knees was associated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (62.5 vs. 12%, p = 0.01) and increased synovial white blood cell (WBC) count (160,000 vs. 52,000, p = 0.004). Unplanned return for repeat washout after open treatment was associated with lower American Society of Anesthesiologists scores (2.3 vs. 2.9, p = 0.019). MRSA was the only independent predictor of failure of single washout in a multivariable logistic regression analysis (p = 0.017). This study did not detect a difference in success of single washout between arthroscopic and open treatment of septic arthritis. However, MRSA was identified as a risk factor for an unplanned return to the OR after arthroscopic treatment. Consideration should be made for open surgical treatment in the setting of MRSA infections of a native knee.
Calcified Middle Cranial Fossa Mass
Authors: Botros James , Hatanpaa Kimmo , Isaacson Brandon , Barnett Samuel
Published: March 2017

A 21-year-old male presented for evaluation of transient loss of consciousness and was found to have a hyperdense mass in the left middle fossa. He underwent craniotomy for tumor resection. Intra- and extradural invasion was noted. Gross total resection was achieved. Pathology demonstrated a densely cellular neoplasm with predominately spindle cell morphology in a collagen-containing stroma, areas of vascular proliferation, focal mineralization, and regions of cartilage formation. High mitotic index and regions of necrosis were seen. Based on the final diagnosis of osteosarcoma, the patient was referred for chemotherapy and radiation. Intracranial osteosarcoma is a nonmeningiomatous mesenchymal tumor. Most osteosarcomas are meningeal-based and supratentorial. Presentation depends on tumor location and may include focal neurologic deficits, cranial neuropathy, seizures, or symptoms of increased intracranial pressure. Given the relative rarity of intracranial osteosarcoma, there are no established guidelines for treatment, and therapy is guided by experience with systemic osteosarcoma. Gross total resection is recommended whenever feasible. Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used as adjuvant therapy. Regardless of treatment, osteosarcoma remains a highly aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis. Morbidity and mortality may be the result of local recurrence or development of pulmonary or skeletal metastasis.
Postoperative Elevated Resistive Indices Do Not Predict Hepatic Artery Thrombosis in Extended Criteria Donor Livers
Authors: Vandermeer Fauzia , Siskind Tamar , Bruno David , Sultan Samuel , Alvarez-Casas Josue , Stafford Arielle , Lane Barton , Lamattina John , Barth Rolf , Hanish Steven , Siskind Eric
Published: March 2017

Postoperative transplant liver ultrasounds were analyzed in standard criteria donor (SCD), extended criteria donor (ECD), and donation after cardiac death (DCD) liver allografts to determine if elevated resistive indices (RIs) are consistently present and if they are pathological. Postoperative transplant liver ultrasounds were reviewed from 115 consecutive patients. Hepatic arterial RIs were stratified based on the type of donor: DCD, macrosteatosis (>30%), or standard criteria. In all patients with elevated RI, subsequent ultrasounds were reviewed to demonstrate RI normalization. The mean RI for all 115 patients was 0.64, DCD was 0.67, macrosteatosis was 0.81, and SCD was 0.61 (p = 0.033). The RI on subsequent liver ultrasounds for DCD and macrosteatosis normalized without any intervention. There were no incidences of early hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT) observed in the cohort. Hepatic arterial RI in ECDs and DCDs are elevated in the immediate postoperative period but are not predictive of HAT. It represents interparenchymal graft stiffness and overall graft edema rather than an impending technical complication. The results of our study do not support the routine use of anticoagulation or routine investigation with computed tomography angiography for elevated RIs as these findings are self-limiting and normalize over a short period of time. We hope that this information helps guide the clinical management of liver transplant patients from expanded criteria donors.
4H Leukodystrophy: A Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scoring System
Authors: Vrij-van den Bos Suzanne , Hol Janna , La Piana Roberta , Harting Inga , Vanderver Adeline , Barkhof Frederik , Cayami Ferdy , van Wieringen Wessel , Pouwels Petra , van der Knaap Marjo , Bernard Geneviève , Wolf Nicole
Published: March 2017

4H (hypomyelination, hypodontia and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism) leukodystrophy (4H) is an autosomal recessive hypomyelinating white matter (WM) disorder with neurologic, dental, and endocrine abnormalities. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scoring system for 4H. A scoring system (0–54) was developed to quantify hypomyelination and atrophy of different brain regions. Pons diameter and bicaudate ratio were included as measures of cerebral and brainstem atrophy, and reference values were determined using controls. Five independent raters completed the scoring system in 40 brain MRI scans collected from 36 patients with genetically proven 4H. Interrater reliability (IRR) and correlations between MRI scores, age, gross motor function, gender, and mutated gene were assessed. IRR for total MRI severity was found to be excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.87; 95% confidence interval: 0.80–0.92) but varied between different items with some (e.g., myelination of the cerebellar WM) showing poor IRR. Atrophy increased with age in contrast to hypomyelination scores. MRI scores (global, hypomyelination, and atrophy scores) significantly correlated with clinical handicap (p < 0.01 for all three items) and differed between the different genotypes. Our 4H MRI scoring system reliably quantifies hypomyelination and atrophy in patients with 4H, and MRI scores reflect clinical disease severity.
Policy considerations for managing wetlands under a changing climate
Authors: Finlayson C. M. , Capon S. J. , Rissik D. , Pittock J. , Fisk G. , Davidson N. C. , Bodmin K. A. , Papas P. , Robertson H. A. , Schallenberg M. , Saintilan N. , Edyvane K. , Bino G.
Published: March 2017

Drawing on the experience and lessons of wetland researchers and managers in Australia and New Zealand, we examined the implications of climate change for wetland policy and management, and identified potential adaptation responses and the information needed to support these. First, we considered wetland vulnerability to climate change, focusing on wetland exposure and sensitivity. We then outlined the existing policy context for dealing with climate change, with an emphasis on the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. We then considered how the objectives and targets for wetland management can be set in the face of climate change, how management can be adapted to climate change given the uncertainties involved, and how we can monitor and evaluate wetland condition in the face of climate change. We concluded with a set of principles to guide adaptation of wetland conservation and management policy to climate change.
Inhibition of the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier protects from excitotoxic neuronal death
Authors: Divakaruni Ajit S. , Wallace Martina , Buren Caodu , Martyniuk Kelly , Andreyev Alexander Y. , Li Edward , Fields Jerel A. , Cordes Thekla , Reynolds Ian J. , Bloodgood Brenda L. , Raymond Lynn A. , Metallo Christian M. , Murphy Anne N.
Published: March 2017

Glutamate is the dominant excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, but under conditions of metabolic stress it can accumulate to excitotoxic levels. Although pharmacologic modulation of excitatory amino acid receptors is well studied, minimal consideration has been given to targeting mitochondrial glutamate metabolism to control neurotransmitter levels. Here we demonstrate that chemical inhibition of the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) protects primary cortical neurons from excitotoxic death. Reductions in mitochondrial pyruvate uptake do not compromise cellular energy metabolism, suggesting neuronal metabolic flexibility. Rather, MPC inhibition rewires mitochondrial substrate metabolism to preferentially increase reliance on glutamate to fuel energetics and anaplerosis. Mobilizing the neuronal glutamate pool for oxidation decreases the quantity of glutamate released upon depolarization and, in turn, limits the positive-feedback cascade of excitotoxic neuronal injury. The finding links mitochondrial pyruvate metabolism to glutamatergic neurotransmission and establishes the MPC as a therapeutic target to treat neurodegenerative diseases characterized by excitotoxicity.
p38 inhibition provides anti–DNA virus immunity by regulation of USP21 phosphorylation and STING activation
Authors: Chen Yunfei , Wang Lufan , Jin Jiali , Luan Yi , Chen Cong , Li Yu , Chu Hongshang , Wang Xinbo , Liao Guanghong , Yu Yue , Teng Hongqi , Wang Yanming , Pan Weijuan , Fang Lan , Liao Lujian , Jiang Zhengfan , Ge Xin , Li Bin , Wang Ping
Published: March 2017

Stimulator of IFN genes (STING) is a central adaptor protein that mediates the innate immune responses to DNA virus infection. Although ubiquitination is essential for STING function, how the ubiquitination/deubiquitination system is regulated by virus infection to control STING activity remains unknown. In this study, we found that USP21 is an important deubiquitinating enzyme for STING and that it negatively regulates the DNA virus–induced production of type I interferons by hydrolyzing K27/63-linked polyubiquitin chain on STING. HSV-1 infection recruited USP21 to STING at late stage by p38-mediated phosphorylation of USP21 at Ser538. Inhibition of p38 MAPK enhanced the production of IFNs in response to virus infection and protected mice from lethal HSV-1 infection. Thus, our study reveals a critical role of p38-mediated USP21 phosphorylation in regulating STING-mediated antiviral functions and identifies p38-USP21 axis as an important pathway that DNA virus adopts to avoid innate immunity responses.
Bilateral comparison of 1 Ω and 10 kΩ standards (ongoing BIPM key comparisons BIPM.EM-K13.a and 13.b) between the CMI (Czech Republic) and the BIPM
Authors: Rolland B , Fletcher N , Kučera J , Chrobok P , Voj´čkov´ L
Published: March 2017

This report gives the result of a bilateral comparison of resistance between the CMI (Czech Republic) and the BIPM carried out in 2015. Two 1 Ω and two 10 kΩ travelling standards belonging to the BIPM were used. The comparison was carried out with an 'A-B-A' pattern of measurements; the standards were measured first at the BIPM for a period of about one month, then for a similar period at the BIM, and finally again at the BIPM. The measurand was the 4 terminal dc resistance at low power. The BIPM was the pilot laboratory, and the comparison forms part of the ongoing BIPM key comparisons BIPM.EM-K13.a (for 1 Ω) and BIPM.EM-K13b (for 10 kΩ).

The results from the CMI and the BIPM were found to be in good agreement, with a difference smaller than the relative expanded uncertainty (95% confidence, k = 2) of 0.046 × 10-6 for 1 Ω and 0.034 × 10-6 for 10 kΩ.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCEM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
On the explicit Torsion Anomalous Conjecture
Authors: Checcoli S. , Veneziano F. , Viada E.
Published: March 2017

The Torsion Anomalous Conjecture states that an irreducible variety

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V

embedded in a semi-abelian variety contains only finitely many maximal

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V

-torsion anomalous varieties. In this paper we consider an irreducible variety embedded in a product of elliptic curves. Our main result provides a totally explicit bound for the Néron-Tate height of all maximal

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V

-torsion anomalous points of relative codimension one in the non-CM case, and an analogous effective result in the CM case. As an application, we obtain the finiteness of such points. In addition, we deduce some new explicit results in the context of the effective Mordell-Lang Conjecture; in particular we bound the Néron-Tate height of the rational points of an explicit family of curves of increasing genus.
Winter–spring climate effects on small-sized copepods in the coastal Baltic Sea
Authors: Klais Riina , Otto Saskia A. , Teder Marilyn , Simm Mart , Ojaveer Henn
Published: March 2017

The general positive effect of warmer winters on the abundance of small-sized zooplankton in the following spring and early summer has been reported from different parts of the Baltic Sea, but the mechanism of this link is not clear. Although causal links cannot be deduced with confidence from observational data, sufficiently detailed analyses can nevertheless provide insights to the potential mechanisms. We present an example of such an analysis, scrutinizing the effects of winter and spring hydroclimate on the abundance of small-sized dominant calanoid copepods (Eurytemora affinis and Acartia spp.), using data from 2080 zooplankton samples collected over 55 years (1957–2012) from a shallow coastal habitat (Pärnu Bay, Gulf of Riga) in the Baltic Sea. Our results indicated that the milder winters brought about higher abundances, and reduced seasonality of small-sized copepods, whereas ambient sea surface temperature (SST) mostly affected the relative abundance of adult stages. The sliding window correlation tests revealed temporal shifts in the effects of controlling variables: with the continuous increase in SST, the effect of winter temperature on the abundance of Acartia spp. weakened. In contrast, E. affinis was consistently affected by SST, but the effect of winter temperature was more pronounced during the period of on average colder winters.
Pregnant Women's Current and Intended Cannabis Use in Relation to Their Views Toward Legalization and Knowledge of Potential Harm
Authors: Mark Katrina , Gryczynski Jan , Axenfeld Ellen , Schwartz Robert P. , Terplan Mishka
Published: March 2017

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to investigate pregnant women's current use of cannabis and their intended patterns of use with relation to their views on the legalization of cannabis and their knowledge of potential harms.

Methods:

A voluntary, anonymous survey regarding patterns of use of cannabis and views on legalization was distributed to a convenience sample of pregnant women presenting for prenatal care at an outpatient university clinic. Chi-square and Fischer's exact tests were used for analysis using STATA.

Results:

Of 306 surveys returned, 35% of women reported currently using cannabis at the time of diagnosis of pregnancy and 34% of those women continued to use. Seventy percent of respondents endorsed the belief that cannabis could be harmful to a pregnancy. Fifty-nine percent of respondents believed that cannabis should be legalized in some form and 10% reported that they would use cannabis more during pregnancy if it were legalized. Those who continued to use cannabis during pregnancy were less likely than those who quit to believe that cannabis use could be harmful during pregnancy (26% vs 75%, P < 0.001). The most common motivation for quitting cannabis use in pregnancy was to avoid being a bad example (74%); in comparison, only 27% of respondents listed a doctor's recommendation as a motivation to quit.

Conclusions:

Cannabis use during pregnancy is relatively common and persistent, despite knowledge of the potential risks of harm. Views toward legalization vary among pregnant women and may impact cannabis use during pregnancy. In a changing legal climate, there is a need for clear messaging on the effects of cannabis use during pregnancy.
Daily Lowest Hemoglobin and Risk of Organ Dysfunctions in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Hemauer Sarah J. , Kingeter Adam J. , Han Xue , Shotwell Matthew S. , Pandharipande Pratik P. , Weavind Liza M.
Published: March 2017

Objectives:

To determine the association between hemoglobin levels and the daily risk of individual organ dysfunctions in critically ill patients.

Design:

Post hoc analysis of prospectively collected data.

Setting:

Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Saint Thomas Hospital Medical and Surgical ICUs.

Patients:

Medical and surgical ICU patients admitted with respiratory failure or shock.

Interventions:

Baseline demographic data, and detailed in-ICU and hospital data, including daily lowest hemoglobin, were collected up to hospital day 30. We assessed patients daily for brain dysfunction (delirium, using Confusion Assessment Method for ICU), for renal and respiratory dysfunction (using the ordinal renal and respiratory Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score), and for ICU mortality. Associations between the lowest hemoglobin on a given day and organ dysfunctions the following day were assessed using multivariable regressions, adjusting for age, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, Charlson comorbidity index, Framingham Stroke Risk Profile, ICU day, ICU type, sepsis, and current organ dysfunction status. A sensitivity analysis further adjusted for daily transfusions and fluid balance in a subset of our patients.

Measurements and Main Results:

We enrolled 821 patients with a median (interquartile range) age of 61 (51–71) years, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score of 25 (19–31), and hemoglobin level of 10.0 (9.0–11.1) g/dL. There was no evidence of an association between lowest daily hemoglobin and brain dysfunction (p= 0.69 for delirium), renal dysfunction (p= 0.30), or ICU mortality (p= 0.95). The lowest hemoglobin on a given day was significantly associated with the respiratory Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score the following day; for each increasing hemoglobin unit, the odds of worsened respiratory Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score the following day were decreased by 36% (OR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.53–0.77;p< 0.001). The sensitivity analysis including daily transfusions and fluid balance (in a subset of 518 patients) did not qualitatively change any of these associations.

Conclusions:

In this study in ICU patients, lower hemoglobin was associated with a higher probability of worsening respiratory dysfunction scores the following day. There was no evidence of association between hemoglobin and brain or renal dysfunction, or ICU mortality. The possible differential effects of anemia on organ dysfunctions seen in this hypothesis-generating study will have to be studied in a larger prospective study before any alterations to present restrictive transfusion guidelines can be recommended.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Adult Community-Acquired Pneumonia: Outcomes and Predictors of Mortality*
Authors: Ramanathan Kollengode , Tan Chuen Seng , Rycus Peter , MacLaren Graeme
Published: March 2017

Objectives:

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a rescue therapy used to support severe cardiorespiratory failure. Data on outcomes from severe community-acquired pneumonia in adults receiving rescue extracorporeal membrane oxygenation are mainly confined to single-center experiences or specific pathogens. We examined data from the Extracorporeal Life Support Organisation registry to identify risk factors for poor outcomes in adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia.

Design:

Retrospective data analysis.

Setting:

Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Registry database.

Patients:

We collected deidentified data on adult patients (> 18 yr) receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for community-acquired pneumonia between 2002 and 2012. Patients with incomplete data or brain death were excluded. The primary outcome measure was in-hospital mortality. Other measurements included demographic information, pre-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation mechanical ventilation and biochemical variables, inotrope requirements, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation mode, duration, and complications. Initial univariate analysis assessed potential associations between survival and various pre-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation factors. Variables with p values of less than 0.1 were considered for logistic regression analysis to identify predictors of mortality.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Findings:

One thousand fifty-five patients, who satisfied inclusion criteria, were included in the final analysis. There was an increase in the number of patients cannulated per annum over the 10-year period studied. Univariate analysis identified pre-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation variables associated with high mortality. Further multiple regression analysis identified certain pre-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation factors as predictors of mortality, including duration of mechanical ventilation prior to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, lower arterial pressure, fungal pneumonia, and advancing age. Type and duration of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, neurologic complications, and presence of more than three complications on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were also associated with higher mortality.

Conclusions:

The majority (66%) of adults with community-acquired pneumonia supported on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation survived. Certain potentially modifiable risk factors were associated with increased mortality.
Clinical and dermoscopic features of truly amelanotic plantar melanoma
Authors: De Giorgi Vincenzo , Gori Alessia , Savarese Imma , D’Errico Antonietta , Papi Federica , Grazzini Marta , Scarfì Federica , Covarelli Piero , Massi Daniela
Published: March 2017

Currently, there are no specific clinical and dermoscopic features for diagnosing truly amelanotic plantar melanoma (TAPM). The present study aimed to investigate the dermoscopic features of all clinical variants of TAMPS and to evaluate their histopathological correlations. A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was carried out during a 10-year period (2003–2013). We analyzed the clinical data of 1321 patients, who had received a histological diagnosis of melanoma at the Melanoma Unit of the University of Florence. We selected the clinical and dermoscopic images of TAPMs and analyzed the presence of dermoscopic parameters. Incorrect preoperative diagnoses were analyzed to highlight peculiar dermoscopic features of pinkish plantar melanomas, the clinical diagnosis of which is extremely challenging for the dermatologist. Of all 1321 patients, 29 (24%) had TAPMs. Importantly, only 20.7% of patients with TAPMs had a correct preoperative diagnosis of suspicious melanocytic lesion. On the basis of the initial misdiagnosis, TAPMs were categorized as eczema-like, verruca-like, angioma-like lesions. Dermoscopically, all TAPMs showed the presence of a well-defined ‘erythematous homogeneous area’ with an atypical polymorphous vascular pattern with dotted, globular, and glomerular vessels. Our study highlights a crucial dermoscopic feature of TAPMs, the ‘erythematous homogeneous area’ that is characteristic of the plantar region, and, to our knowledge and experience, has not been described in nonacral amelanotic melanomas.
Left Ventricular Assist Device Salvage with Omental Flap
Authors: Cusimano Luke A. , Wolfe Emily T. , Tan Pamela , Babycos Christopher R. , Bansal Aditya
Published: March 2017

A large number of people are affected with heart failure annually and require left ventricular assist device placement as a bridge to heart transplant or as destination therapy. When these devices become infected, it is a challenge to eradicate the infection. Failure ultimately results in a significant morbidity and mortality. Source control along with debridement and antibiotics can eradicate the infection of the patient, but many times there is a large defect that needs soft-tissue coverage. Many options for soft-tissue coverage have been suggested, but omentum may be an excellent choice due to its vascularity, bulk, and immunological properties. In this case report, the omental flap is employed for salvage of the left ventricular assist device with excellent results.