bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of the chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding protein 4 (CHD4) missense variation p.D140E with cancer: Potential interaction with smoking
Authors: Yamada Miki , Sato Noriko , Ikeda Shinobu , Arai Tomio , Sawabe Motoji , Mori Seijiro , Yamada Yoshiji , Muramatsu Masaaki , Tanaka Masashi
Published: November 2014

Chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding protein 4 (CHD4) plays a pivotal role in chromatin‐remodeling and has been implicated in the development of cancer. The aim of this study is to determine the association of CHD4 gene variants with cancer. Nine missense single nucleotide variations (SNVs) in CHD4 were retrieved from genotyping, by an exome‐chip, 2,343 consecutive autopsy cases, in which the presence or absence of cancer was pathologically reviewed. The association of CHD4 variants with the presence of cancer and with different types of cancer was determined. Interaction with smoking was also determined. There were 1,446 patients with cancer and 897 patients without cancer. Of the nine SNVs, eight SNVs were monomorphic, while two nonsynonymous SNVs; rs7479004 (p.D140E) and rs1639122 (p.E139D) were further verified by direct sequencing. The p.D140E was associated with the presence of cancer (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.37–3.44, P = 0.001), but not p.E139D. The effect size was larger in the smokers (adjusted OR, 4.66; 95% CI, 1.82–11.9; P =0.001), suggesting that there may be a gene environment interaction. For individual cancer types, p.D140E was associated with lung cancer (adjusted OR, 3.99; 95% CI, 2.07–7.67; P < 0.001), malignant lymphoma (adjusted OR, 3.24; 95% CI, 1.43–7.33; P = 0.005), and rectum cancer (adjusted OR, 6.23; 95% CI, 2.31–16.8; P < 0.001). A nonsynonymous SNV of CHD4, p.D140E, confers a risk of cancer and may interact with smoking habit to increase the risk. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An evaluation and recommendation of the optimal methodologies to detect RET gene rearrangements in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Tianwei , Lu Yachao , Ye Qingqing , Zhang Meizhuo , Zheng Li , Yin Xiaolu , Gavine Paul , Sun Zhongsheng , Ji Qunsheng , Zhu Guanshan , Su Xinying
Published: November 2014

To recommend a reliable and clinically realistic RET/PTC rearrangement detection assay for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), we compared multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and immunohistochemistry (IHC). RET/PTC rearrangement was detected using either RET break‐apart FISH followed by multicolor FISH to confirm CCDC6/RET or NCOA4/RET fusions, or by multiplex qPCR to detect 14 RET/PTC subtypes with simultaneous RET mRNA expression. RET protein expression was detected by IHC. The specificity and sensitivity of multiplex qPCR and IHC were calculated using break‐apart FISH as a reference. Among 73 PTC patients with sufficient tissue available for FISH and multiplex qPCR, 10 cases were defined as RET/PTC positive by both assays, including eight CCDC6/RET and two NCOA4/RET fusions with relatively high RET mRNA. In addition, multiplex qPCR identified another two CCDC6/RET fusion positive cases, but with low RET mRNA expression. IHC staining identified 11 RET positive cases among 39 patients with available samples. In comparison to FISH, multiplex qPCR displayed 100% sensitivity and 97% specificity to detect RET/PTC fusions, while IHC was neither sensitive nor specific. Our data reveal that both multiplex qPCR and FISH assays are equally applicable for detection of RET/PTC rearrangements. Break‐apart FISH methodology is highly recommended for the wider screening of RET rearrangements (regardless of partner genes), while multiplex qPCR is preferred to identify all known fusion types using one assay, provided mRNA expression is also measured. IHC analysis could potentially provide an additional method of fusion detection dependent on further optimization of assay conditions and scoring cutoffs. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cognitive control and word recognition speed influence the Stroop effect in bilinguals
Authors: Wang Ruiming , Fan Xiaoyue , Liu Cong , Cai Zhenguang G.
Published: November 2014

Bilinguals have been shown to be less susceptible to Stroop interference in their first language than monolinguals, though the cause is currently being debated. In two experiments, we explored how cognitive control and word recognition contribute to the Stroop effect by contrasting cognitive control (via a Simon arrow task), word recognition speed (via a Chinese/English word recognition task) and Stroop susceptibility (via a verbal Stroop task) between proficient and non‐proficient Chinese–English bilinguals. Compared to non‐proficient bilinguals, proficient bilinguals showed better cognitive control at inhibiting irrelevant information, and they were slower at recognising Chinese words but quicker at recognising English words. Critically, we also showed that proficient bilinguals showed a smaller Stroop effect than non‐proficient bilinguals in Chinese but a comparable Stroop effect as non‐proficient bilinguals in English. The results cannot be accounted for by cognitive control or word recognition speed alone; instead, they are best accommodated by assuming that cognitive control and word recognition speed jointly determine the Stroop effect. Thus, we conclude that enhanced cognitive control and delayed word recognition combine to reduce Stroop effect in bilinguals as compared to monolinguals.
The Propensity Score Analytical Framework: An Overview and Institutional Research Example
Authors: Herzog Serge
Published: November 2014

Estimating the effect of campus math tutoring support, this study demonstrates the use of propensity score weighted and matched‐data analysis and examines the correspondence with results from parametric regression analysis.
Item Response Theory: Overview, Applications, and Promise for Institutional Research
Authors: Sharkness Jessica
Published: November 2014

Item Response Theory (IRT) is a measurement theory that is ideal for scale and test development in institutional research, but it is not without its drawbacks. This chapter provides an overview of IRT, describes an example of its use, and highlights the pros and cons of using IRT in applied settings.
Real‐Time Fluorescence Imaging of the DNA Damage Repair Response During Mitosis
Authors: Miwa Shinji , Yano Shuya , Yamamoto Mako , Matsumoto Yasunori , Uehara Fuminari , Hiroshima Yukihiko , Toneri Makoto , Murakami Takashi , Kimura Hiroaki , Hayashi Katsuhiro , Yamamoto Norio , Efimova Elena V. , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Hoffman Robert M.
Published: November 2014

The response to DNA damage during mitosis was visualized using real‐time fluorescence imaging of focus formation by the DNA‐damage repair (DDR) response protein 53BP1 linked to green fluorescent protein (GFP) (53BP1‐GFP) in the MiaPaCa‐2Tet‐On pancreatic cancer cell line. To observe 53BP1‐GFP foci during mitosis, MiaPaCa‐2Tet‐On 53BP1‐GFP cells were imaged every 30 min by confocal microscopy. Time‐lapse imaging demonstrated that 11.4 ± 2.1% of the mitotic MiaPaCa‐2Tet‐On 53BP1‐GFP cells had increased focus formation over time. Non‐mitotic cells did not have an increase in 53BP1‐GFP focus formation over time. Some of the mitotic MiaPaCa‐2Tet‐On 53BP1‐GFP cells with focus formation became apoptotic. The results of the present report suggest that DNA strand breaks occur during mitosis and undergo repair, which may cause some of the mitotic cells to enter apoptosis in a phenomenon possibly related to mitotic catastrophe. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 661–666, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Semiempirical and DFT computations of the influence of Tb(III) dopant on unit cell dimensions of cerium(III) fluoride
Authors: Shyichuk Andrii , Runowski Marcin , Lis Stefan , Kaczkowski Jakub , Jezierski Andrzej
Published: November 2014

Several computational methods, both semiempirical and ab initio, were used to study the influence of the amount of dopant on crystal cell dimensions of CeF3 doped with Tb3+ ions (CeF3:Tb3+). AM1, RM1, PM3, PM6, and PM7 semiempirical parameterization models were used, while the Sparkle model was used to represent the lanthanide cations in all cases. Ab initio calculations were performed by means of GGA+U/PBE projector augmented wave density functional theory. The computational results agree well with the experimental data. According to both computation and experiment, the crystal cell parameters undergo a linear decrease with increasing amount of the dopant. The computations performed using Sparkle/PM3 and DFT methods resulted in the best agreement with the experiment with the average deviation of about 1% in both cases. Typical Sparkle/PM3 computation on a 2×2×2 supercell of CeF3:Tb3+ lasted about two orders of magnitude shorter than the DFT computation concerning a unit cell of this material. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pomelo enhances cyclosporine bioavailability in healthy male thai volunteers
Authors: Anlamlert Wirin , Sermsappasuk Pakawadee , Yokubol Dhirayudh , Jones Sirada
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pomelo pulp on the pharmacokinetics of cyclosporine in healthy male Thai volunteers.

The study design was an open‐label, randomized, single dose, crossover study with a 2‐week washout period. A single oral dose of 2 × 100 mg cyclosporine was administered with 200 mL of water. Each subject received 250 g of pomelo pulp or 250 mL of water 1 hour before drug administration and once again 10 minutes following drug administration. Blood samples were collected over a 24 hour period. The point estimates (90% confidence intervals) of the test/control ratio using logarithmic transformed data for the area under the curve (AUC) for blood concentration from time 0 to infinity (AUC0–∞) and the observed maximum concentration (Cmax) were 128.8% (120.6–137.6) and 136.1% (126.0–146.8), respectively. These 90% confidence intervals were higher than the accepted bioequivalence range defined by the European Medicines Agency guidelines for narrow therapeutic index drugs (90%–111% for AUC and 80%–125% for Cmax). However, the apparent terminal half‐life (t1/2) was not significantly different. In conclusion, co‐administration of cyclosporine and pomelo pulp increased the relative bioavailability of cyclosporine.
Safety and tolerability of serelaxin, a recombinant human relaxin‐2 in development for the treatment of acute heart failure, in healthy Japanese volunteers and a comparison of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in healthy Japanese and Caucasian populations
Authors: Dahlke Marion , Ng Dik , Yamaguchi Masayuki , Machineni Surendra , Berger Sergej , Canadi Jasna , Rajman Iris , Lloyd Peter , Pang Yinuo
Published: November 2014

Serelaxin, a recombinant form of the human relaxin‐2 hormone, is currently under clinical investigation for treatment of acute heart failure. This double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐ranging study investigated the effect of Japanese ethnicity on the pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and safety and tolerability of serelaxin. Japanese healthy subjects (n = 32) received 10, 30, or 100 µg/kg/day of serelaxin, or placebo, administered as a 48‐hour intravenous infusion. A Caucasian cohort (n = 8) receiving 30 µg/kg/day open‐label serelaxin was included for comparison. In all subjects, serum serelaxin concentrations increased rapidly after the start of infusion, approached steady state as early as 4 hours, and declined rapidly upon treatment cessation. Serum exposure to serelaxin increased with increasing doses. Statistical dose proportionality was shown for AUCinf over the entire dose range. A significant increase in estimated glomerular filtration rate from baseline to Day 2 (30 and 100 µg/kg/day) and to Day 3 (10 and 100 µg/kg/day) was observed compared with placebo. Serelaxin was well tolerated by all subjects. In conclusion, PK, PD, and safety profiles of serelaxin were generally comparable between Japanese and Caucasian subjects, suggesting that no dose adjustment will be required in Japanese subjects during routine clinical use of this agent.
The fungal laccase‐catalyzed oxidation of EGCG and the characterization of its products
Authors: Lee Yeonhee , Lin Zhi , Du Guocheng , Deng Zhuangmei , Yang Haiquan , Bai Wenxiang
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

Fungal laccase (EC 1.10.3.2) is an important enzyme for catalyzing the oxidation of tea polyphenols during the fermentation of tea. (−)‐Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the main ingredient of tea polyphenols. To a certain extent, the oxidation degree of EGCG reflects the fermentation degree of tea. This study preliminarily optimized the conditions for catalytically oxidizing EGCG by Aspergillus sp. trijbl1112 laccase and systematically analyzed the components and contents of the EGCG oxidation products.

RESULTS

Aspergillus sp. trijbl1112 laccase oxidized EGCG into free catechins, ester catechins, gallic acid and tea pigments. The reaction conditions had a significant impact on the oxidation rate, types and concentrations of the products. At natural pH, 69.29% of EGCG was oxidized when 1 mL of EGCG (1 mmol L−1) was catalyzed by 10 µg of fungal laccase for 150 min at 70 °C. When the EGCG oxidation rate was 69.27%, free catechins ((+)‐catechin and (−)‐epigallocatechin) and tea pigments (mainly thearubigin and theabrownin) constituted 48.42 and 38.87% of the oxidation products respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results may provide a theoretical basis for the application of EGCG oxidation using laccase and provide a novel technique for obtaining high production of tea pigments. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
A synergistic effect of pretreatment on cell wall structural changes in barley straw (Hordeum vulgare L.) for efficient bioethanol production
Authors: Sheikh Md Mominul Islam , Kim Chul‐Hwan , Park Hyeong‐Hun , Nam Hye‐Gyeong , Lee Gyeong Sun , Jo Hu Seung , Lee Ji‐Young , Kim Jae Won
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

Barley straw (Hordeum vulgare L.) is an attractive lignocellulosic material and one of the most abundant renewable resources for fuel ethanol production. Although it has high cellulose and hemicellulose contents, there are several challenges and limitations in the process of converting it to fuel ethanol. High ash, silica and lignin contents in barley straw make it an inferior feedstock for enzymatic hydrolysis. Therefore pretreatment of barley straw could play an important role in inducing structural and compositional changes that increase the efficiency of enzymatic hydrolysis and make the whole process economically viable.

RESULTS

Saccharification was enhanced using various concentrations (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0% v/v) of a solution of sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and various reaction times (15, 30 and 45 min) during pretreatment at 121 °C. The highest yield of glucose (447 mg g−1) was achieved by pretreatment with 2.0% NaClO+H2O2 solution for 30 min, representing an increase of 65.99% compared with untreated barley straw (152 mg g−1). During fermentation, the highest amount of ethanol (207 mg g−1) was obtained under anaerobic plus 0.4 mmol L−1 benzoic acid conditions, representing an increase of 57.49, 38.16 and 10.14% compared with untreated sample (88 mg g−1), aerobic (128 mg g−1) and anaerobic (186 mg g−1) conditions respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that pretreatment with 2.0% NaClO+H2O2 solution disrupted the recalcitrant structure of barley straw and enhanced the glucose yield and subsequent bioethanol production. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Arrest of progression of pre‐induced abdominal aortic aneurysm in apolipoprotein E‐deficient mice by low level laser phototherapy
Authors: Gavish Lilach , Beeri Ronen , Gilon Dan , Rubinstein Chen , Berlatzky Yacov , Bulut Atilla , Reissman Petachia , Gavish Leah Y. , Gertz S. David
Published: November 2014

Background and Objectives

Using non‐invasive, high‐frequency ultrasonography (HF‐u/s), we showed that low‐level laser phototherapy (LLL) inhibits de‐novo formation of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in apolipoprotein‐E‐deficient (Apo‐E‐/‐) mice. The current study tests the effect of LLL on the progression of pre‐induced AAA.

Study Design/Material and Methods

AAA was induced in Apo‐E‐/‐ mice (age16–20 weeks) by subcutaneous infusion of angiotensin‐II using osmotic minipumps (1000 ng/kg/minutes, 4 weeks). HF‐u/s (40 MHz, 0.01 mm resolution, Vevo‐770, VisualSonics) was used to measure the maximum cross‐sectional‐diameter (MCD) of the suprarenal abdominal aorta, the anterior wall displacement (AWD), and radial wall velocity (RWV). The aortas of mice that developed >35% dilatation at 2 weeks over baseline were exposed retroperitoneally and treated with LLL (780 nm, 2.2 J/cm2, 9 minutes) or sham‐operated. HF‐u/s was repeated at 4 weeks, the mice sacrificed by perfusion fixation, and the aortas excised for histopathology.

Results

Of all mice with >35% MCD expansion of the suprarenal aorta at 2 weeks, 7(58%) of 12 non‐treated, but only 1(7%) of 14 LLL, had increased MCD(> 1 SD) at 4 weeks (P < 0.009 by Fisher's Exact Test [FET]). The mean change in MCD from 2–4 weeks was also markedly reduced in the LLL‐treated mice (control vs. LLL, 0.24 ± 0.25 vs. −0.06 ± 0.39mm, P = 0.029 by unpaired t‐test). Similar results were obtained when limiting the analysis to animals with ≥50% expansion at 2 weeks. The deterioration in AWD from 2–4 weeks in non‐treated controls was not observed in LLL‐treated animals (ΔAWD: control, 0.03 ± 0.05 mm, P < 0.036 vs. LLL, 0.00 ± 0.05, P = 0.91 by paired t‐test). By the modified Daugherty classification, we found significantly fewer severe aneurysms at 4 weeks in the LLL‐treated animals versus control (3 of 10 vs. 9 of 11, P = 0.03 by FET).

Conclusions

LLL not only prevents de novo development of AAA, but, from this study, also arrests further progression of pre‐induced AAA and its associated deterioration in the biomechanical integrity of the aortic wall in Apo‐E‐/‐ mice. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:781–790, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Hyperbranched PAMAM Vicsek Fractals
Authors: Fürstenberg Florian , Gurtovenko Andrey A. , Dolgushev Maxim , Blumen Alexander
Published: November 2014

Within the broad class of hyperbranched polymers, highly symmetrical objects (such as dendrimers and Vicsek fractals) are of special theoretical interest. Here we study, using the MARTINI force‐field, polyamidoamine Vicsek fractals (PVF) in silico, focusing on their structure and dynamics in dilute solution. Our extensive microsecond‐long simulations show that the radius of gyration of PVF scales with the molecular weight as N0.54, behavior rather close to that of stars and considerably distinct from that of dendrimers. The study of the radial density profiles indicates that different parts of the PVF interpenetrate significantly, fact which stresses the soft and sparse character of PVF. These results are also supported by our findings for the rotational autocorrelation functions.
Increased activity of MMP‐2 in hypertensive obese children is associated with hypoadiponectinemia
Authors: Belo Vanessa A. , Lacchini Riccardo , Miranda Josiane A. , Lanna Carla M.M. , Souza‐Costa Debora C. , Tanus‐Santos Jose E.
Published: November 2014

Objective

To compare the circulating levels of MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 and the MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 ratio in control, obese, and obese hypertensive children and adolescents and to assess whether hypoadiponectinemia is associated with MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 levels and MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 ratios.

Methods

Studies were carried out with 53 control, 73 obese, and 29 obese hypertensive children and adolescents in this cross‐sectional study. Adiponectin and TIMP‐2 concentrations were measured by ELISA. MMP‐2 concentrations were measured by gelatin zymography. Multiple linear regression analysis was carried out to assess the effects of adiponectin on MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 levels and MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 ratios.

Results

The obese hypertensive group had the lowest adiponectin levels among groups (P < 0.05) while obese subjects had lower adiponectin levels than control subjects (P < 0.05). Obese hypertensive subjects also had higher circulating MMP‐2 concentrations than obese subjects (P < 0.05) and had the highest MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 ratios among groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, obese/hypertensive subjects had the lowest TIMP‐2 levels among groups (P < 0.05). A multiple linear regression analysis showed that MMP‐2 levels and MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 ratios are negatively associated with adiponectin levels (P = 0.034 and P = 0.011, respectively) while TIMP‐2 levels is positively associated with adiponectin levels (P = 0.013).

Conclusions

Increased activity of MMP‐2 (MMP‐2/TIMP‐2 ratio) and reduced TIMP‐2 levels may play an important role in clinical hypertension of childhood obesity. Additionally, hypoadiponectinemia may contribute to increased activity of MMP‐2 in obese/hypertensive children and adolescents.
Secondhand smoke and traffic exhaust confer opposing risks for asthma in normal and overweight children
Authors: LeMasters Grace , Levin Linda , Bernstein David I. , Lockey Stephen D. , Lockey James E. , Burkle Jeff , Khurana Hershey Gurjit K. , Brunst Kelly , Ryan Patrick H.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Exposure to ultrafine particles (UFP) in secondhand smoke (SHS) and traffic‐related air pollution (TRAP) may elicit chronic inflammation. It was hypothesized that the association between these exposures would be potentiated in overweight versus normal‐weight children.

Methods

Average lifetime exposure to TRAP and SHS and objective, physician‐diagnosed asthma were determined for 575 children at age 7. Overweight was defined as having a body mass index (BMI) >85th percentile for age and gender. The association between TRAP and SHS exposure and asthma was examined by logistic regression stratified by BMI.

Results

A total of 131 children were overweight; the prevalence of asthma was 24.4% and 14.2% among overweight and normal‐weight children, respectively. Exposure to SHS was significantly associated with asthma among overweight (adjusted odds ratio [adjOR] = 3.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2, 7.4) but not normal‐weight children (adjOR = 1.1; 95% CI = 0.4, 2.7). In contrast, TRAP was significantly associated with asthma among normal‐weight (adjOR = 1.8; 95% CI = 1.0, 3.4) but not overweight children (adjOR = 0.7; 95% CI = 0.4, 2.7).

Conclusions

The association between SHS and TRAP exposure and asthma is modified by children's weight. Children's time‐activity patterns, including time spent indoors or outdoors, may vary by weight and play an important role in these UFP exposures.
Comparison of copolymer emulsions of fluorine and siloxane‐containing acrylates with core–shell structure for water‐repellent cotton fabrics coatings
Authors: Lin J. , Zheng C. , Zhu M. N. , Chen Y. Z. , Lu P. P. , Liu Q. , Cai X. F. , Zhuang J. W. , Cai X. M. , Liao L. P. , Yuan G. Y. , Xu C. L.
Published: November 2014

This paper described the synthesis of copolymer emulsions of fluorine and siloxane‐containing acrylates for water‐repellent cotton fabrics coatings. Chemical composition, morphology structure, and properties of the latex copolymers were investigated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Effects of water‐repellent functional monomers (Rf) on surface morphology, water contact angle, and water‐repellent properties of the coated fabric surface were also studied. The results indicated that Rf greatly influenced molecular mass distribution of the latex copolymers, the molecular aggregation states and orientation of Rf on the coated fabric surface, and water‐repellency of coated cotton fabrics. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhanced mechanical properties of nanocomposites at low graphene content based on in situ ball milling
Authors: Liu Ying , Wu Hang , Chen Guohua
Published: November 2014

In this study, epoxy‐based nanocomposites with low content mechanically exfoliated graphene were successfully prepared via one‐step in situ ball milling method. The effect of graphene on mechanical properties of the nanocomposites was investigated. The results showed that samples with loadings less than 0.1% weight of mechanically exfoliated graphene increased by 160% in tensile strength and 65% in Young's modulus. The experimental value of Young's modulus was also compared with the predictions of the well‐established Halpin‐Tsai model. In addition, the adding of graphene did not decrease the impact strength of epoxy. The microstructural results showed that the as‐prepared graphenes were single‐ and few‐layer graphene sheets and preserved perfect structure. Thus enhancements of mechanical properties in the nanocomposites could be ascribed to the strong interfacial interaction between the stiff graphene nanosheets and the epoxy matrix. POLYM. COMPOS. 37:1190–1197, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Chemically functionalized graphene/polymer nanocomposites as light heating platform
Authors: Tao Cheng‐an , Zou Xiaorong , Hu Zhihong , Liu Huiping , Wang Jianfang
Published: November 2014

Chemically functionalized graphene (CFG) is proposed as a novel nanoscale optical heater by uniformly dispersing it in poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) matrix. And subsequently, a simple, fast, and localized heating method on microfluidic chips is demonstrated. CFG is prepared through simultaneous modification and reduction of graphene oxide with dodecylamine by a solvothermal route. It is well dispersed in PDMS suspension to form uniform CFG/PDMS composite due to the presence of the long‐dodecyl chain. The obtained CFG/PDMS composites are readily made into microfluidic chips by standard soft lithography. The localized optical heating on the chip is realized by employing a conventional semiconductor laser as light source. The prepared chips with low to 0.05 wt% CFG contents can exhibit temperature increase (<1 min) at very low power illumination. The optical heating effects were observed not only under irradiation with long wavelength, but also under the wavelengths as short as 405 nm. Our studies illustrated that CFG/PDMS composite can serve as a practical optical heating platform for microfluidic chips with the advantages of simple, low cost, and high efficiency. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1350–1358, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Nationwide demonstration project of next‐generation sequencing of cell‐free DNA in maternal plasma in Japan: 1‐year experience
Authors: Sago Haruhiko , Sekizawa Akihiko ,   Japan NIPT consortium
Published: November 2014

Objective

To report the 1‐year experience of a nationwide demonstration project to introduce noninvasive prenatal testing of aneuploidy from maternal plasma and discuss how to implement this program in Japan.

Methods

The test was conducted to detect aneuploidy in high‐risk pregnant women with adequate genetic counseling. The clinical data, test results, and pregnancy outcomes were recorded.

Results

Of the 7740 women tested, 142 (1.8%) had positive results, 7594 (98.1%) had negative results, and four (0.1%) had results that were not reportable. Of the 142 women who tested positive, 13 cases resulted in intrauterine fetal death, and three cases refused to undergo the invasive procedure. Of the 126 positive cases confirmed on karyotyping, a normal karyotype was observed for trisomy 21 in three cases, trisomy 18 in eight cases, and trisomy 13 in two cases. In the follow‐up study of the negative cases (n = 1638), only one false‐negative case of trisomy 18 was detected.

Conclusions

We described our nationwide 1‐year experience with noninvasive prenatal genetic testing. It is expected that the present data will stimulate a debate regarding prenatal genetic testing and hopefully lead to improvements in the perinatal care system with respect to genetic counseling in Japan. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FLATCON® CPV module with 36.7% efficiency equipped with four‐junction solar cells
Authors: Steiner Marc , Bösch Armin , Dilger Alexander , Dimroth Frank , Dörsam Tobias , Muller Matt , Hornung Thorsten , Siefer Gerald , Wiesenfarth Maike , Bett Andreas W.
Published: November 2014

In this paper we present the application of high efficiency four‐junction solar cells using SOITEC bonding technology under a Fresnel lens optic and in a FLATCON®‐type CPV module. We demonstrate very high performance. The measurement of a sub‐module, consisting of a four‐junction solar cell adjusted under a single Fresnel lens, showed an efficiency of 38.9%. An 829.6 cm2 sized FLATCON®‐type CPV module yielded in an efficiency of 35.0% and 36.7% at CSOC and CSTC, respectively. Thus, both, the sub‐module and the CPV module showed record values, which prove the usefulness of high efficiency four‐junction solar cells in CPV applications. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Charge transfer in and conductivity of molecularly doped thiophene‐based copolymers
Authors: Ghani Fatemeh , Opitz Andreas , Pingel Patrick , Heimel Georg , Salzmann Ingo , Frisch Johannes , Neher Dieter , Tsami Argiri , Scherf Ullrich , Koch Norbert
Published: November 2014

The electrical conductivity of organic semiconductors can be enhanced by orders of magnitude via doping with strong molecular electron acceptors or donors. Ground‐state integer charge transfer and charge‐transfer complex formation between organic semiconductors and molecular dopants have been suggested as the microscopic mechanisms causing these profound changes in electrical materials properties. Here, we study charge‐transfer interactions between the common molecular p‐dopant 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane and a systematic series of thiophene‐based copolymers by a combination of spectroscopic techniques and electrical measurements. Subtle variations in chemical structure are seen to significantly impact the nature of the charge‐transfer species and the efficiency of the doping process, underlining the need for a more detailed understanding of the microscopic doping mechanism in organic semiconductors to reliably guide targeted chemical design. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 58–63
Above, below, and in‐between the two glass transitions of ultrathin free‐standing polystyrene films: Thermal expansion coefficient and physical aging
Authors: Pye Justin E. , Roth Connie B.
Published: November 2014

In previous work we observed two simultaneous transitions in high molecular weight (MW) free‐standing polystyrene films that were interpreted as two thickness‐dependent reduced glass transition temperatures (Tgs). The weaker lower transition agreed well with the MW‐dependent Tg(h) previously reported, while the much stronger upper transition matched the MW‐independent Tg(h) previously observed in low‐MW free‐standing films. Here, we investigate the nature of these two transitions by inspecting the temperature dependence of the films' thermal coefficient of expansion (TCE) and present physical aging measurements using ellipsometry both below and in‐between the two transitions. TCE values indicate approximately 80 to 90% of the film solidifies at the upper transition, while only 10 to 20% remains mobile to lower temperatures, freezing out at the lower transition. Physical aging is observed at a temperature below the upper transition, but above the lower transition, indicative of the upper transition being an actual glass transition associated with the α‐relaxation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 64–75
Features of titanium oxide memristor fabrication by pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Maslova Natalia , Khrapovitskaya Yulia , Sokolov Ivan , Grishchenko Yulia , Mamichev Dmitry , Zanaveskin Maxim
Published: November 2014

The structural and electrophysical properties of titanium oxide based memristor obtained by pulsed laser deposition were analysed. The experimental results found the possibility of fine tuning of memristor active layers stoichiometry during deposition. In addition, the atomic force microscopy analysis of the surface of titanium oxide films revealed its high morphological homogeneity and continuity. The obtained memristors with gold contacts have been possessed bipolar switching mechanism and high endurance. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of TiOx/TiO2 layer thickness on the properties of the pulsed laser deposited memristive device
Authors: Tselikov G. I. , Emelyanov A. V. , Antropov I. M. , Demin V. A. , Kashkarov P. K.
Published: November 2014

Memristive properties of the pulsed laser deposited Pt/TiOx/TiO2/Pt heterostructures with different layer thicknesses are studied. It was found that the memristor device provides nonmonotonic dependence of the ratio of its resistance in low and high conductive states Roff/Ron on layers thickness. The maximum value of the ratio Roff/Ron = 200 is obtained when the thickness of both TiOx and TiO2 layers is 30 nm. The dependence of the stoichiometry index of deposited layers from their thicknesses is studied by means of Auger spectroscopy measurements. The nonmonotonic behaviour of the ratio Roff/Ron on layer thickness is discussed in terms of wide stoichiometry distribution through the amorphous TiOx/TiO2 structure. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ion current rectification effect of porous graphene membrane
Authors: Zeng Jian , Yao Huijun , Mo Dan , Duan Jinglai , Liu Jiande , Cao Dianliang , Zhai Pengfei , Liu Jie , Sun Youmei
Published: November 2014

Graphene, as an important ideal two‐dimensional material, is driving more and more attention because of its unique mechanical strength and chemical stability. In this work, the rectification effect of nanopores in graphene/PET structure at different KCl concentration is investigated. Porous graphene membrane is obtained by using heavy ion irradiation technology. During investigating the ion current rectification effect, PET membrane with conical pores acts as porous graphene's substrate. The rectification coefficient of nanopores in graphene/PET is deduced from the current‐voltage curves at KCl solution with different concentrations. The porous graphene/PET shows a relative higher rectification ratio and is more resistive to pH value while comparing the nanopores in PET. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Perspectives of enhancement of p‐type conductivity in ZnO nanowires
Authors: Tchelidze Tamar , Kereselidze Tamaz , Nadareishvili Teimuraz
Published: November 2014

Semiconductor nanowires are believed to act as key elements in future nanoscaled optoelectronic devices, as they offer intriguing electrical and optoelectronic properties. However, the future of any semiconductor nanowire technology will essentially rely on their doping capability. The availability of both n‐ and p‐type semiconductors is important for the realization of nanowire‐based electronics. Wide band gap semiconductors, such as ZnO, suffer from doping polarity. They can be easily doped n‐ (or p‐type) to the expense of difficulties for doping of opposite type. Space confinement changes donor and acceptor ionization energies. The main factor that makes difficult to obtain n‐ or p‐conductivity is the formation of compensating defects. Compensating processes are strongly affected by electronic structure of the system: band gap, ionization energies of donors, acceptors and their compensation centers. In the presented work we calculated energy levels of an electron bound to Coulomb impurity that is incorporated in semiconductor nanowire. Effect of dielectric confinement on ionization energies are considered as well. For analyzing perspectives of suppressing processes of compensation and achieving low ohmic p‐conductivity Kröger method of quasi‐chemical equations is used. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Microscopic and spectroscopic analysis of the nature of conductivity changes during resistive switching in silicon‐rich silicon oxide
Authors: Buckwell Mark , Montesi Luca , Mehonic Adnan , Reza Omer , Garnett Leon , Munde Manveer , Hudziak Stephen , Kenyon Anthony J.
Published: November 2014

Redox‐based resistive random access memory (RRAM) has the scope to greatly improve upon current methods of data storage, despite incomplete understandings of material switching mechanisms. We make use of atomic force microscopy (AFM), conductive atomic force microscopy (cAFM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to characterise the physical processes occurring in the changes in conductance state in silicon‐rich silicon oxide RRAM. Surface analyses of the insulating oxide layer of our devices are employed to establish the chemical and structural properties of pristine and switched states. The removal of oxygen from the active layer is observed to be concomitant with the appearance of varying degrees of surface distortion and regions of high conductivity in an otherwise‐insulating material. These results support the currently‐recognised model of a resistive switching mechanism that is reliant upon the migration of oxygen ions under an electrical bias. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Impact of Production and Conversion Processes on the Carbon Footprint of Flexible Plastic Films
Authors: Poovarodom Ngamtip , Ponnak Chularat , Manatphrom Natthaphon
Published: November 2014

The present study aimed to identify and compare the carbon footprint associated with polyolefin films (linear low‐density polyethylene, high‐density polyethylene and polypropylene), with the idea of developing a simple and affordable empirical method to assist the flexible packaging industry, notably small and medium‐sized enterprises, in estimating the carbon footprint of different products or of new products at the early stage of development. It was found that the total global warming potential (GWP) of the studied films increased 19–67% during processing when compared with the GWP embodied in plastic resins. This indicated that film production processes greatly contribute to the carbon footprint of plastic films. The relative impact of the film‐making process on the total GWP of films is largely a function of plastic type, in particular, its melting point. Printing and lamination processes also contribute significantly to the total GWP of films, with the major factor being electricity use.

The constant k was derived to indicate the influences of plastic types and manufacturing processes on the total GWP of films and to help calculate the carbon footprint of polyolefin films for which the production process and weight are known. Moreover, the GWP of each studied film was normalized with respect to film thickness and area. This information would be useful for packaging manufacturers and users to calculate the carbon footprint of multilayer films. The proposed empirical model showed satisfactory results, as the difference was less than 10% when compared with the results obtained from life cycle assessment studies. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extrinsics Autocalibration for Dense Planar Visual Odometry
Authors: Zienkiewicz Jacek , Davison Andrew
Published: November 2014

A single downward‐looking camera can be used as a high‐precision visual odometry sensor in a wide range of real‐world mobile robotics applications. In particular, a simple and computationally efficient dense alignment approach can take full advantage of the local planarity of floor surfaces to make use of the whole texture available rather than sparse feature points. In this paper, we present and analyze highly practical solutions for autocalibration of such a camera's extrinsic orientation and position relative to a mobile robot's coordinate frame. We show that two degrees of freedom, the out‐of‐plane camera angles, can be autocalibrated in any conditions, and that bringing in a small amount of information from wheel odometry or another independent motion source allows rapid, full, and accurate six degree‐of‐freedom calibration. Of particular practical interest is the result that this can be achieved to almost the same level even without wheel odometry and based only on widely applicable assumptions about nonholonomic robot motion and the forward/backward direction of its movement. We show the accurate, rapid, and robust performance of our autocalibration techniques for varied camera positions over a range of low‐textured real surfaces, both indoors and outdoors.
Endogenous Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Bone Marrow Are Required to Preserve Muscle Function in mdx Mice
Authors: Fujita Ryo , Tamai Katsuto , Aikawa Eriko , Nimura Keisuke , Ishino Saki , Kikuchi Yasushi , Kaneda Yasufumi
Published: November 2014

The physiological role of “endogenous” bone marrow (BM) mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in tissue regeneration is poorly understood. Here, we show the significant contribution of unique endogenous BM-MSC populations to muscle regeneration in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) mice (mdx). Transplantation of BM cells (BMCs) from 10-week-old mdx into 3–4-week-old mdx mice increased inflammation and fibrosis and reduced muscle function compared with mdx mice that received BMCs from 10-week-old wild-type mice, suggesting that the alteration of BMC populations in mdx mice affects the progression of muscle pathology. Two distinct MSC populations in BM, that is, hematopoietic lineage (Lin)−/ckit−/CD106+/CD44+ and Lin−/ckit−/CD106+/CD44− cells, were significantly reduced in 10-week-old mdx mice in disease progression. The results of a whole-transcriptome analysis indicated that these two MSC populations have distinct gene expression profiles, indicating that the Lin−/ckit−/CD106+/CD44+ and Lin−/ckit−/CD106+/CD44− MSC populations are proliferative- and dormant-state populations in BM, respectively. BM-derived Lin−/CD106+/CD44+ MSCs abundantly migrated to damaged muscles and highly expressed tumor necrosis factor-alpha-stimulated gene/protein-6 (TSG-6), an anti-inflammatory protein, in damaged muscles. We also demonstrated that TSG-6 stimulated myoblast proliferation. The injection of Lin−/ckit−/CD106+/CD44+ MSCs into the muscle of mdx mice successfully ameliorated muscle dysfunction by decreasing inflammation and enhancing muscle regeneration through TSG-6-mediated activities. Thus, we propose a novel function of the unique endogenous BM-MSC population, which countered muscle pathology progression in a DMD model. Stem Cells  2015;33:962–975
Cancer Stem Cell-Like Phenotype and Survival Are Coordinately Regulated by Akt/FoxO/Bim Pathway
Authors: Gargini Ricardo , Cerliani Juan P. , Escoll Maribel , Antón Inés M. , Wandosell Francisco
Published: November 2014

Many solid tumors contain a subpopulation of cells with stem characteristics and these are known as cancer stem cells (CSCs) or tumor-initiating cells (TICs). These cells drive tumor growth and appear to be regulated by molecular pathway different from other cells in the tumor bulk. Here, we set out to determine whether elements of the PI3K-AKT pathway are necessary to maintain the CSC-like phenotype in breast tumor cells and for these cells to survive, bearing in mind that the identification of such elements is likely to be relevant to define future therapeutic targets. Our results demonstrate a close relationship between the maintenance of the CSC-like phenotype and the survival of these TICs. Inhibiting PI3K activity, or eliminating AKT activity, mostly that of the AKT1 isoform, produces a clear drop in TICs survival, and a reduction in the generation and growth of CD44High/CD24Low mammospheres. Surprisingly, the apoptosis of these TICs that is triggered by AKT1 deficiency is also associated with a loss of the stem cell/mesenchymal phenotype and a recovery of epithelial-like markers. Finally, we define downstream effectors that are responsible for controlling the CSC-phenotype, such as FoxO-Bim, and the death of these cells in the absence of AKT1. In summary, these data closely link the maintenance of the stem cell-like phenotype and the survival of these cells to the AKT-FoxO-Bim pathway. Stem Cells  2015;33:646–660
Co‐rumination via cellphone moderates the association of perceived interpersonal stress and psychosocial well‐being in emerging adults
Authors: Murdock Karla Klein , Gorman Sarah , Robbins Maia
Published: November 2014

Adolescents' and emerging adults' social interactions increasingly revolve around cellphone use, but little research has investigated the psychological properties of cellphone interactions. The current study explored co‐rumination via cellphone; that is, the use of cellphone functions to excessively communicate about problems or negative feelings. Face‐to‐face co‐rumination and co‐rumination via cellphone were examined as potential moderators of the association between perceived interpersonal stress and psychosocial well‐being (i.e., positive mental health and social burnout) in a sample of 142 college students. Face‐to‐face co‐rumination was not a moderator. However, co‐rumination via cellphone was a significant moderator such that higher levels of perceived interpersonal stress were associated with lower levels of well‐being only among college students who reported higher levels of co‐rumination via cellphone. Co‐rumination via cellphone should be further investigated to elucidate its developmental trajectory and mental health correlates.
Projects for Increasing Job Satisfaction and Creating a Healthy Work Environment
Authors: Brunges Michele , Foley‐Brinza Christine
Published: November 2014

Workplace culture is one of the biggest factors driving employee commitment and engagement. Multiple studies have shown that hospitals will perform better over time if employees are committed to their jobs and engaged in what they do. By creating and implementing multiple projects during a three‐year period, a team at the University of Florida Health Shands Hospital, Gainesville, increased job satisfaction. Projects included ensuring meal breaks were offered, creating a serenity area, developing the patient ambassador role, actively addressing bullying and unprofessional behavior, assigning a student mentee to work with staff members on culture change, offering regular fun activities, redesigning the unit, reorganizing schedules to reduce stress, implementing education and training initiatives, establishing a Unit Practice Council, and implementing reward and recognition programs. Survey results and anecdotal evidence suggest that these projects combined to increase employee satisfaction and employee retention rates.
Temporal mindsets and self‐regulation: The motivation and implementation of self‐regulatory behaviors
Authors: Buhrau Denise , Sujan Mita
Published: November 2014

Self‐regulation requires connecting desired goals (benefits sought) with means of attainment (implementation plans). Individual differences in the consideration of future consequences (CFC) can influence self‐regulation. Although a high‐ (low‐) CFC orientation has generally been considered a preoccupation with future (present) events and needs, we argue that a complete characterization also includes the ability (less ability) to construct specific action plans. With a mix of lab and field studies, we demonstrate that either general implementation recommendations or distant benefits trigger planning and motivate self‐regulation for high‐CFC individuals. Specific implementation recommendations coupled with proximate benefits help low‐CFC individuals plan and self‐regulate. In Study 1, we measure CFC and vary the temporal location of benefits and specificity of implementation recommendations to motivate exercising and show that self‐generated specific plans mediate self‐regulatory intentions. In Study 2, we assess actual self‐regulatory behaviors for participants in a walking program. This research has theoretical implications for the temporal construal and planning literatures and practical implications for increasing self‐regulation among individuals who do not consider the long‐term consequences of their current actions.
Scenario 2: hypothermia
Authors: BOWMAN WARREN
Published: November 2014

Twenty-person Ranger patrol crossing a frozen lake Cross-country skis Planned direct action operation on radar site Moderate intensity hostile patrol activity Air temperature + 5°F Three-mile patrol to target Planned extraction near objective by helicopter Blizzard develops Patrol takes cover in snow caves for 2 days. All patrol members dehydrated and hypothermic when blizzard abates Two members unconscious