bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functionalized Graphene as Extracellular Matrix Mimics: Toward Well‐Defined 2D Nanomaterials for Multivalent Virus Interactions
Authors: Gholami Mohammad Fardin , Lauster Daniel , Ludwig Kai , Storm Julian , Ziem Benjamin , Severin Nikolai , Böttcher Christoph , Rabe Jürgen P. , Herrmann Andreas , Adeli Mohsen , Haag Rainer
Published: March 2017

Polysulfated nanomaterials that mimic the extracellular cell matrix are of great interest for their potential to modulate cellular responses and to bind and neutralize pathogens. However, control over the density of active functional groups on such biomimetics is essential for efficient interactions, and this remains a challenge. In this regard, producing polysulfated graphene derivatives with control over their functionality is an intriguing accomplishment in order to obtain highly effective 2D platforms for pathogen interactions. Here, a facile and efficient method for the controlled attachment of a heparin sulfate mimic on the surface of graphene is reported. Dichlorotriazine groups are conjugated to the surface of graphene by a one‐pot [2+1] nitrene cycloaddition reaction at ambient conditions, providing derivatives with defined functionality. Consecutive step by step conjugation of hyperbranched polyglycerol to the dichlorotriazine groups and eventual conversion to the polyglycerol sulfate result in the graphene based heparin biomimetics. Scanning force microscopy, cryo‐transmission electron microscopy, and in vitro bioassays reveal strong interactions between the functionalized graphene (thoroughly covered by a sulfated polymer) and vesicular stomatitis virus. Infection experiments with highly sulfated versions of graphene drastically promote the infection process, leading to higher viral titers compared to nonsulfated analogues.
Hierarchical Self‐Assembly of Dopamine into Patterned Structures
Authors: Zhang Peibin , Tang Anqi , Zhu Baoku , Zhu Liping , Zeng Hongbo
Published: March 2017

It has been demonstrated that dopamine can undergo oxidation and complicated self‐reaction in aqueous solution to form so‐called polydopamine (PDA). In this paper, for the first time, the hierarchical self‐assembly of dopamine into surface patterned structures is described. PDA nanoaggregates are first prepared assisted by ethylenediamine, based on the covalent self‐polymerization and noncovalent self‐assembly. The surface fractal patterns are further created and modulated by the dynamic self‐assembly of PDA nanoaggregates to develop more macroscopic ordered structure of PDA. Various surface patterns of PDA aggregates are successfully obtained by evaporative dewetting method. The effects of solution pH, type of inorganic salts, and temperature on the morphology of surface pattern are investigated. Mineralization or metal deposition is used to keep the pattern fixed. The surface patterning strategy reported here is applicable to a broad range of materials, which allows the developments of materials with controllable patterned structure.
H2O2‐Assisted Synthesis of Porous N‐Doped Graphene/Molybdenum Nitride Composites with Boosted Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Liu Xiaobo , Amiinu Ibrahim Saana , Liu Shaojun , Pu Zonghua , Li Wenqiang , Ye Bei , Tan Dongmei , Mu Shichun
Published: March 2017

Nonprecious metal (NPM) catalysts are considered as the most promising candidate to replace Pt‐based electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, in comparison with the commercial Pt catalyst, the development of high efficiency and low cost NPM catalysts for ORR still remains a big challenge. Here, a simple but efficient way to fabricate porous N‐doped graphene immobilized molybdenum nitride (MoN) nanoparticles is reported, and simultaneously, the introduction of H2O2 plays a key role in modulating the particle size of MoN and the microstructure of the composite to achieve different configuration. As results, it is shown that the as‐prepared material owns outstanding ORR activity and excellent stability in an alkaline medium. To the best knowledge, this catalyst possesses the best performance among the same class catalysts as reported. It is believed that the H2O2‐assisted strategy can provide new insights in synthesis of high efficient metal nitride/carbon hybrid materials toward advanced energy conversion and storage.
3D Conductive Network Supported Monolithic Molybdenum Disulfide Nanosheets for High‐Performance Lithium Storage Applications
Authors: Liu Mingkai , Liu Yuqing , Tang Buzheng , Zhang Peng , Yan Yan , Liu Tianxi
Published: March 2017

Hierarchical 3D graphene nanoribbons/carbon nanotubes–molybdenum disulfide (GR/CNT‐MoS2) nanocomposites have been facilely and controllably prepared. The GR/CNT matrix, which is prepared by partial unzipping of multiwalled CNTs, possesses good conductive networks by bridging graphene nanoribbons on different CNTs. MoS2 with monolithic morphologies is anchored on the GR/CNT conductive networks, achieving the formation of hierarchical GR/CNT‐MoS2 nanocomposites. As a result of the good dispersion of MoS2, a large specific surface area (238 m2 g−1) of GR/CNT‐MoS2 nanocomposite has been achieved. Excellent electrochemical performance including high specific capacity (1245 mA h g−1) and good cycling stability (90.9% capacity retention after 200 cycles) of the GR/CNT‐MoS2 nanocomposites is achieved due to the full exposure of the active sites of MoS2 nanoflakes, and high electron transport ability of the GR/CNT substrate. These novel GR/CNT‐MoS2 nanocomposites show promising application in lithium ion batteries, and further provide a new way to design and develop new anode materials.
Mortality risk in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and its association to asthma
Authors: Alt Jeremiah A. , Thomas Andrew J. , Curtin Karen , Wong Jathine , Rudmik Luke , Orlandi Richard R.
Published: March 2017

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a highly prevalent inflammatory condition, with significant effects on morbidity and quality of life. Given that other chronic inflammatory conditions have been associated with increased mortality risk, we sought to evaluate the relationship between mortality and CRS including the influence of asthma. Our objective was to determine if CRS, with or without asthma, is associated with altered risk of mortality.

Methods

Using a statewide population database, we retrospectively identified 27,005 patients diagnosed with CRS between 1996 and 2012, and 134,440 unaffected controls matched 5:1 on birth year and sex. Risk of mortality was determined from Cox models and Kaplan‐Meier curves were used to compare survival.

Results

A significant interaction between CRS and asthma status was observed in which CRS appeared to confer a protective effect in asthma patients. Asthma, when present, increased mortality in CRS‐negative controls (p‐interaction < 0.0001). Independent of asthma status, CRS patients exhibited a decreased mortality risk (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74 to 0.85) compared to controls. However, in patients diagnosed at or before the median age of CRS onset (42 years) independent of asthma status, survival was not improved (HR = 0.98; 95% CI, 0.81 to 1.18). Risk of mortality was greater in CRS with nasal polyps (n = 1643) compared to 25,362 polyp‐negative CRS patients (HR = 1.38; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.77).

Conclusion

CRS was associated with lower risk of mortality compared to controls, and appeared to mitigate increased mortality from asthma. We posit that better survival conferred by CRS may be secondary to treatment. However, the etiology of this relationship and the effect of CRS treatment on mortality are unknown.
Experimental and First‐Principles Evidence for Interfacial Activity of Ru/TiO2 for the Direct Conversion of m‐Cresol to Toluene
Authors: Omotoso Taiwo O. , Baek Byeongjin , Grabow Lars C. , Crossley Steven P.
Published: March 2017

The selective cleavage of C−O bonds in phenolic species is perhaps the most difficult transformation required for converting biomass‐derived monomers to aromatic fuels and chemicals. Metals supported on reducible oxides, such as Ru/TiO2, have demonstrated considerable promise for a variety of selective C−O cleavage reactions, but the active site has been subject of a great deal of speculation. This paper employs a combination of theory and experiments to investigate the nature of the active site for the selective transformation of m‐cresol to toluene. Through variation of metal loading, particle size and support phase, we show that sites responsible for direct C−O cleavage of m‐cresol lie at the perimeter of the metal particle. The activation barrier for C−O cleavage is reduced from 1.4 eV on the Ru surface to 0.7 eV at an interfacial site. The introduction of water facilitates a further reduction to 0.3 eV via a proton‐assisted C‐O cleavage. These results answer a longstanding question regarding the nature of these important active sites, with broad implications for biomass upgrading.
An Electrochemiluminescent Biosensor Based on Interactions between a Graphene Quantum Dot−Sulfite Co‐reactant System and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zhou Chen , Chen Yingmei , You Xu , Dong Yongqiang , Chi Yuwu
Published: March 2017

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are recently emerging carbon nanomaterials. GQDs have been recognized as attractive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) luminophores, owing to their environmental friendliness, facile preparation, easy labeling, and high ECL activity. However, in terms of the co‐reactant of GQDs ECL, only strongly oxidative S2O82− has been well studied and applied in GQD‐based ECL sensing, which seriously limits the application of GQD ECL sensors. In the present work, we found that the commonly used reducing reagent, sulfite (SO32−), could serve as a new type of co‐reactant of GQD ECL. Moreover, GQDs exhibited much higher ECL activity than spherical carbon quantum dots when using SO32− as the co‐reactant, owing to more abundant surface states of GQDs. Further investigation showed that GQD/SO32− ECL could be sensitively quenched by H2O2 at physiological pH. On this basis, new, green, and simple ECL chemical and biological sensors have been proposed for the detection of H2O2 and biologically interesting molecules such as glucose. Additionally, the ECL reaction and sensing mechanisms have also been studied and discussed.
Biogel‐Derived Polycrystalline MnO Spheres/S‐Doped Carbon Composites with Enhanced Performance as Anode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Hongzhan , Liu Wei , Zhang Yuan , Wang Huanlei , Liu Shuang , Chen Shougang , Cheng Fengli , Zhao Shuping , Hao Enchao
Published: March 2017

To meet the practical requirement of advanced storage equipment, electrode materials with low cost, high performance, and readily available large‐scale production are of intensive concern. In this work, a natural marine biomass, gelidium amansii, was used to fabricate novel polycrystalline MnO spheres/S‐doped carbon composites (MnO/SC) with hierarchical porosity by using a simple bio‐sol‐gel and pyrolysis process. By inducing biogels, the unique composites of polycrystalline MnO spheres encapsulated and interwoven in a sulfur‐doped carbon net were created, which leads to a higher loading of active materials in contrast to other reported bio‐derived MnO/C materials. As anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries, the obtained MnO/SC composites delivered a high reversible capacity of 1100 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g−1 and a superior long‐term cycling performance of over 500 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles even at the high current density of 2 A g−1. Therefore, the present work represents a feasible large‐scale fabrication approach toward high‐performance electrode materials on the basis of rich natural biogels.
Efficient Electrocatalyst for Glucose and Ethanol Based on Cu/Ni/N‐Doped Graphene Hybrids
Authors: Wu Kong‐Lin , Jiang Bin‐Bin , Cai Ya‐Miao , Wei Xian‐Wen , Li Xiang‐Zi , Cheong Weng‐Chon
Published: March 2017

Copper/nickel nanoparticle‐decorated N‐doped graphene (Cu/Ni/N‐graphene) hybrids were prepared by using a solvothermal method, and further employed as a sensing material for fabricating a sensitive non‐enzymatic glucose and ethanol sensor. Compared with Cu, Cu/N‐graphene, Ni, Ni/N‐graphene, Cu50/Ni50 nanoparticles, and Cu51/Ni49/graphene, the Cu52/Ni48/N‐graphene showed enhanced electrochemical activity to glucose and ethanol oxidation, owing to the synergetic effects of Cu and Ni together with N‐graphene sheets in the hybrids. The results showed that the Cu52/Ni48/N‐graphene hybrid‐modified electrode exhibited excellent performance for glucose detection with a wider linear range (from 0.5 μM to 4.6 mM), lower limit of detection (0.2 μM, S/N=3), and higher sensitivity (1847.56 μA mM−1 cm−2) than other modified electrodes. Furthermore, the presented non‐enzymatic sensor also displayed a good response toward ethanol oxidation with a wide linear range from 0.2 to 37.1 mM, lower detection limit of 0.1 mM (S/N=3), and faster response time (5 s). These results indicated that the excellent properties could promote the potential application of the bimetals and N‐graphene sheets as enhanced materials in constructing non‐enzymatic sensors for electrochemical analysis.
Fabrication of Holey Graphene: Catalytic Oxidation by Metalloporphyrin‐Based Covalent Organic Framework Immobilized on Highly Ordered Pyrolytic Graphite
Authors: Seo Wanji , White David L. , Star Alexander
Published: March 2017

We report a facile chemical method for fabricating holey graphene by catalytic oxidation of highly ordered pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) using an FeIII porphyrin complex‐based covalent organic framework (COF) as a bifunctional surface catalyst–template. We demonstrate regular hole formation after oxidation with H2O2 and NaOCl, COF removal, and HOPG exfoliation.
Calculation of cancellous bone elastic properties with the polarization‐based FFT iterative scheme
Authors: Colabella Lucas , Ibarra Pino Ariel Alejandro , Ballarre Josefina , Kowalczyk Piotr , Cisilino Adrián Pablo
Published: March 2017

The Fast Fourier Transform–based method, originally introduced by Moulinec and Suquet in 1994 has gained popularity for computing homogenized properties of composites. In this work, the method is used for the computational homogenization of the elastic properties of cancellous bone. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study where the Fast Fourier Transform scheme is applied to bone mechanics. The performance of the method is analyzed for artificial and natural bone samples of 2 species: bovine femoral heads and implanted femurs of Hokkaido rats. Model geometries are constructed using data from X‐ray tomographies, and the bone tissue elastic properties are measured using microindentation and nanoindentation tests. Computed results are in excellent agreement with those available in the literature. The study shows the suitability of the method to accurately estimate the fully anisotropic elastic response of cancellous bone. Guidelines are provided for the construction of the models and the setting of the algorithm.
Review of Microfluidic Devices for On‐Chip Chemical Sensing
Authors: WATANABE TAKAHIRO , SASSA FUMIHIRO , YOSHIZUMI YOSHITAKA , SUZUKI HIROAKI
Published: March 2017

Microfluidic techniques can be a basis to realize user‐friendly microanalytical devices of high performance. Required operations include injection of solutions to reaction chambers, volume measurement, and mixing of solutions. For this purpose, the use of surface tension is attractive. In hydrophobic flow channels, solutions can be moved stably in the form of plugs. Otherwise, solutions can be transported by capillary action in a hydrophilic flow channel and stopped at a hydrophobic valve. The valve can be opened autonomously by switching the mixed potential by wetting a zinc electrode formed in a controlling flow channel. In this review paper, we introduce some of our microfluidic devices particularly focusing on devices that work based on surface tension.
Global Mammal Parasite Database version 2.0
Authors: Stephens Patrick R. , Pappalardo Paula , Huang Shan , Byers James E. , Farrell Maxwell J. , Gehman Alyssa , Ghai Ria R. , Haas Sarah E. , Han Barbara , Park Andrew W. , Schmidt John P. , Altizer Sonia , Ezenwa Vanessa O. , Nunn Charles L.
Published: March 2017

Illuminating the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of parasites is one of the most pressing issues facing modern science, and is critical for basic science, the global economy, and human health. Extremely important to this effort are data on the disease‐causing organisms of wild animal hosts (including viruses, bacteria, protozoa, helminths, arthropods, and fungi). Here we present an updated version of the Global Mammal Parasite Database, a database of the parasites of wild ungulates (artiodactyls and perissodactyls), carnivores, and primates, and make it available for download as complete flat files. The updated database has more than 24,000 entries in the main data file alone, representing data from over 2700 literature sources. We include data on sampling method and sample sizes when reported, as well as both “reported” and “corrected” (i.e., standardized) binomials for each host and parasite species. Also included are current higher taxonomies and data on transmission modes used by the majority of species of parasites in the database. In the associated metadata we describe the methods used to identify sources and extract data from the primary literature, how entries were checked for errors, methods used to georeference entries, and how host and parasite taxonomies were standardized across the database. We also provide definitions of the data fields in each of the four files that users can download.
Independent academic Data Monitoring Committees for clinical trials in cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases
Authors: Filippatos Gerasimos S. , de Graeff Pieter , Bax Jeroen J. , Borg John‐Joseph , Cleland John G.F. , Dargie Henry J. , Flather Marcus , Ford Ian , Friede Tim , Greenberg Barry , Henon‐Goburdhun Cécile , Holcomb Richard , Horst Bradley , Lekakis John , Mueller‐Velten Guenther , Papavassiliou Athanasios G. , Prasad Krishna , Rosano Giuseppe M.C. , Severin Thomas , Sherman Warren , Stough Wendy Gattis , Swedberg Karl , Tavazzi Luigi , Tousoulis Dimitris , Vardas Panagiotis , Ruschitzka Frank , Anker Stefan D.
Published: March 2017

Data Monitoring Committees (DMCs) play a crucial role in the conducting of clinical trials to ensure the safety of study participants and to maintain a trial's scientific integrity. Generally accepted standards exist for DMC composition and operational conduct. However, some relevant issues are not specifically addressed in current guidance documents, resulting in uncertainties regarding optimal approaches for communication between the DMC, steering committee, and sponsors, release of information, and liability protection for DMC members. The Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), in collaboration with the Clinical Trials Unit of the European Heart Agency (EHA) of the ESC convened a meeting of international experts in DMCs for cardiovascular and cardiometabolic clinical trials to identify specific issues and develop steps to resolve challenges faced by DMCs.The main recommendations from the meeting relate to methodological consistency, independence, managing conflicts of interest, liability protection, and training of future DMC members. This paper summarizes the key outcomes from this expert meeting, and describes the core set of activities that might be further developed and ultimately implemented by the ESC, HFA, and other interested ESC constituent bodies. The HFA will continue to work with stakeholders in cardiovascular and cardiometabolic clinical research to promote these goals.
Zur Beurteilung der Standsicherheit von Böschungen mit unterschiedlichen Verfahren
Authors: Schweiger Helmut F. , Tschuchnigg Franz
Published: March 2017

Zur Beurteilung der Standsicherheit und damit von Sicherheitsfaktoren von Böschungen, Hängen und Dämmen werden in der Praxis vorwiegend Grenzgleichgewichtsbetrachtungen, meist mittels Lamellenverfahren, eingesetzt. Neuere Untersuchungen zeigen jedoch, dass diese Verfahren in manchen Fällen Ergebnisse liefern, die deutlich auf der unsicheren Seite liegen können. Als Alternative bieten sich numerische Verfahren wie die Finite‐Elemente‐Methode an, wobei zwei unterschiedliche Formulierungen zum Einsatz kommen können. Erstens Formulierungen, die auf Verschiebungsansätzen beruhen, und zweitens Formulierungen, die die Schrankentheoreme der Plastizitätstheorie als Grundlage haben. In diesem Beitrag wird gezeigt, dass diese numerischen Verfahren den Lamellenverfahren hinsichtlich Aussagekraft generell überlegen sind, wenn auch ein etwas höherer Berechnungsaufwand in Kauf zu nehmen ist.
Experimental investigation of convective heat transfer coefficient of Al2O3/water nanofluid at lower concentrations in a car radiator
Authors: Gulhane Amit , Chincholkar S.P.
Published: March 2017

For many years, water and ethylene glycol were used as conventional coolants in automotive car radiators, but these coolants offer lower thermal conductivity than is required. This study is focused on the application of water‐based Al2O3 nanofluid at lower concentrations in a car radiator. The Al2O3 nanoparticles with an average diameter of 50 nm are dispersed in demineralized water at four different volume concentrations (0.1 vol. % to 0.4 vol. %) without any dispersant or stabilizer. Flow rate is varied in the range of 2 l/min to 5 l/min and inlet coolant temperature to the radiator is set to 50 °C, 60 °C, and 70 °C. The results show that the heat transfer coefficient increases with an increase in particle concentration, flow rate, and inlet temperature of coolant and the maximum increase in heat transfer coefficient is 45.87 % compared to pure water. However, the Nusselt number increases with the increase in particle concentration, Reynolds number, and inlet temperature of the coolant. In addition with the experimental study, a regression analysis is performed by using the ANOVA method and generates a correlation for the convective heat transfer coefficient.
The role of insufficient copper in lipid synthesis and fatty‐liver disease
Authors: Morrell Austin , Tallino Savannah , Yu Lei , Burkhead Jason L.
Published: March 2017

The essential transition metal copper is important in lipid metabolism, redox balance, iron mobilization, and many other critical processes in eukaryotic organisms. Genetic diseases where copper homeostasis is disrupted, including Menkes disease and Wilson disease, indicate the importance of copper balance to human health. The severe consequences of insufficient copper supply are illustrated by Menkes disease, caused by mutation in the X‐linked ATP7A gene encoding a protein that transports copper from intestinal epithelia into the bloodstream and across the blood–brain barrier. Inadequate copper supply to the body due to poor diet quality or malabsorption can disrupt several molecular level pathways and processes. Though much of the copper distribution machinery has been described and consequences of disrupted copper handling have been characterized in human disease as well as animal models, physiological consequences of sub‐optimal copper due to poor nutrition or malabsorption have not been extensively studied. Recent work indicates that insufficient copper may be important in a number of common diseases including obesity, ischemic heart disease, and metabolic syndrome. Specifically, marginal copper deficiency (CuD) has been reported as a potential etiologic factor in diseases characterized by disrupted lipid metabolism such as non‐alcoholic fatty‐liver disease (NAFLD). In this review, we discuss the available data suggesting that a significant portion of the North American population may consume insufficient copper, the potential mechanisms by which CuD may promote lipid biosynthesis, and the interaction between CuD and dietary fructose in the etiology of NAFLD. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 69(4):263–270, 2017
A simple, rapid and sensitive plate assay for detection of microbial hyaluronidase activity
Authors: Patil Sandip , Chaudhari Bhushan
Published: March 2017

Hyaluronidase (hyase) is a glycosidase enzyme that predominantly degrades hyaluronic acid (HA) having important applications in many biotechnological processes and therapeutics. Several assay methods have been proposed to screen hyase producing microorganisms; however, they rely on unique reagents and sophisticated instruments, which are expensive and could be unavailable in general laboratories. In the present studies, a rapid, simple, sensitive, highly reproducible, and cost‐effective qualitative plate assay has been developed for the screening of hyase producing microorganisms. The routinely used plate assay method of Richman and Baer requires a special chemical cetylpyridinium chloride and long incubation period of 20 h; but still, the zones of clearance are not very clear and distinct. While, the present method requires an incubation period of only 1 h and the distinct zones of clearance appear with Gram's iodine within 1 min of time. This method does not require any special medium, unlike previously reported methods. Moreover, use of commonly available Gram's iodine makes this method suitable for many researchers. The results of the assay method were validated by TLC, zymographic analysis and determining the growth of isolates in minimal medium containing HA as a sole carbon source.
WFS1 and GJB2 mutations in patients with bilateral low‐frequency sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Kasakura‐Kimura Natsuko , Masuda Masatsugu , Mutai Hideki , Masuda Sawako , Morimoto Noriko , Ogahara Noboru , Misawa Hayato , Sakamoto Hirokazu , Saito Koichiro , Matsunaga Tatsuo
Published: March 2017

Objective

Evaluating the prevalence of specific gene mutations associated with a certain audiometric configuration facilitates clinical assessment of patients with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). WFS1 is responsible for autosomal dominant nonsyndromic deafness 6/14/38 and is the most frequent genetic cause of low‐frequency SNHL (LFSNHL); however, the exact prevalence of WFS1 mutations in LFSNHL is unknown. Therefore, we evaluated genetic mutations and clinical features in patients with nonsyndromic bilateral LFSNHL, focusing on the WFS1.

Study Design

Retrospective case series from 2002 to 2013 at the National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center and collaborating hospitals.

Methods

WFS1, GJB2, and mitochondrial DNA mutation screening was carried out for 74 of 1,007 Japanese probands with bilateral LFSNHL.

Results

WFS1 and GJB2 mutations were identified in eight of 74 cases (10.8%). Four cases had heterozygous WFS1 mutations; one case had a heterozygous WFS1 mutation and a heterozygous GJB2 mutation; and three cases had biallelic GJB2 mutations. Three cases with WFS1 mutations were sporadic; two of them were confirmed to be caused by a de novo mutation based on the genetic analysis of their parents. In the case with mutations in both WFS1 and GJB2, a de novo mutation of WFS1 was confirmed in the proband's mother by genetic screening of the mother's parents.

Conclusion

Genetic screening focusing on LFSNHL has not been conducted. The present study first revealed the prevalence of specific gene mutations. WFS1 autosomal dominant mutations were identified even in sporadic cases. Our results also suggested a mutational hotspot in WFS1.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:E324–E329, 2017
Role of Combination Antimicrobial Therapy for Vancomycin‐Resistant Enterococcus faecium Infections: Review of the Current Evidence
Authors: Yim Juwon , Smith Jordan R. , Rybak Michael J.
Published: March 2017

Enterococcus species are the second most common cause of nosocomial infections in the United States and are particularly concerning in critically ill patients with preexisting comorbid conditions. Rising resistance to antimicrobials that were historically used as front‐line agents for treatment of enterococcal infections, such as ampicillin, vancomycin, and aminoglycosides, further complicates the treatment of these infections. Of particular concern are Enterococcus faecium strains that are associated with the highest rate of vancomycin resistance. The introduction of antimicrobial agents with specific activity against vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus (VRE) faecium including daptomycin, linezolid, quinupristin‐dalfopristin, and tigecycline did not completely resolve this clinical dilemma. In this review, the mechanisms of action and resistance to currently available anti‐VRE antimicrobial agents including newer agents such as oritavancin and dalbavancin will be presented. In addition, novel combination therapies including β‐lactams and fosfomycin, and the promising results from in vitro, animal studies, and clinical experience in the treatment of VRE faecium will be discussed.
Survey of Emergency and Essential Surgical, Obstetric and Anaesthetic Services Available in Bangladeshi Government Health Facilities
Authors: Loveday Jonathan , Sachdev Sonal P. , Cherian Meena N. , Katayama Francisco , Akhtaruzzaman A. K. M. , Thomas Joe , Huda N. , Faragher E. Brian , Johnson Walter D.
Published: March 2017

Objective

Evaluate the capacity of government‐run hospitals in Bangladesh to provide emergency and essential surgical, obstetric and anaesthetic services.

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey of 240 Bangladeshi Government healthcare facilities using the World Health Organisation Situational Analysis Tool to Assess Emergency and Essential Surgical Care (SAT). This tool evaluates the ability of a healthcare facility to provide basic surgical, obstetric and anaesthetic care based on 108 queries that detail the infrastructure and population demographics, human resources, surgical interventions and reason for referral, and available surgical equipment and supplies. For this survey, the Bangladeshi Ministry of Health sent the SAT to sub‐district, district/general and teaching hospitals throughout the country in April 2013.

Results

Responses were received from 240 healthcare facilities (49.5% response rate): 218 sub‐district and 22 district/general hospitals. At the sub‐district level, caesarean section was offered by 55% of facilities, laparotomy by 7% and open fracture repair by 8%. At the district/general hospital level, 95% offered caesarean section, 86% offered laparotomy and 77% offered open fracture treatment. Availability of anaesthesia services, general equipment and supplies reflected this trend, where district/general hospitals were better equipped than sub‐district hospitals, though equipment and infrastructure shortages persist.

Conclusion

There has been overall impressive progress by the Bangladeshi Government in providing essential surgical services. Areas for improvement remain across all key areas, including infrastructure, human resources, surgical interventions offered and available equipment. Investment in surgical services offers a cost‐effective opportunity to continue to improve the health of the Bangladeshi population and move the country towards universal healthcare coverage.
Transformation conforme de la courbure scalaire sur la sphère
Authors: Vaugon M.
Published: March 2017

In answer to a Nirenberg problem, on the sphere

S_n

of dimension

n > 2

with its classical riemannian metric

g

, we describe a class of functions which are scalar curvature corresponding to metrics

g'

conformal to

g

.

En réponse à un problème posé par Nirenberg, sur la sphère

S_n

de dimension

n > 2

munie de sa métrique riemannienne classique

g

, on décrit une classe de fonctions qui sont des courbures scalaires correspondant à des métriques

g'

conformes à

g

.
Obligations
Authors: Hogg Martin
Published: March 2017

Obligations: Law and Language is the first work of its kind to examine in depth the fundamental language used by courts, legislators, and academic commentators when describing the nature of obligations law. A comparative perspective is taken, examining the law of England, Scotland, the United States, Canada, and Australia, and an in-depth analysis is provided of the major legal commentaries, statutes, and case law from each jurisdiction. In exploring such fundamental words as obligation, liability, debt, conditional, unilateral, mutual, and gratuitous, the author examines the often confusing and contradictory ways in which basic structural language has been used, and brings clarity to a core area of legal theory and practice.
The Ontological Turn
Authors: Holbraad Martin , Pedersen Morten Axel
Published: March 2017

A new and often controversial theoretical orientation that resonates strongly with wider developments in contemporary philosophy and social theory, the so-called 'ontological turn' is receiving a great deal of attention in anthropology and cognate disciplines at present. This book provides the first anthropological exposition of this recent intellectual development. It traces the roots of the ontological turn in the history of anthropology and elucidates its emergence as a distinct theoretical orientation over the past few decades, showing how it has emerged in the work of Roy Wagner, Marilyn Strathern and Viveiros de Castro, as well a number of younger scholars. Distinguishing this trajectory of thinking from related attempts to put questions of ontology at the heart of anthropological research, the book articulates critically the key methodological and theoretical tenets of the ontological turn, its prime epistemological and political implications, and locates it in the broader intellectual landscape of contemporary social theory.
Religious Leaders and Conflict Transformation
Authors: Sandal Nukhet A.
Published: March 2017

Religious dimension of contemporary conflicts and the rise of faith-based movements worldwide require policymakers to identify the channels through which religious leaders can play a constructive role. While religious fundamentalisms are in the news every day, we do not hear about the potential and actual role of religious actors in creating a peaceful and just society. Countering this trend, Sandal draws attention to how religious actors helped prepare the ground for stabilizing political initiatives, ranging from abolition of apartheid (South Africa), to the signing of the Lome Peace Agreement (Sierra Leone). Taking Northern Ireland as a basis and using declarations and speeches of more than forty years, this book builds a new perspective that recognizes the religious actors' agency, showing how religious actors can have an impact on public opinion and policy making in today's world.
Computational study of drag increase due to wall roughness for hypersonic flight
Authors: Wang L. , Zhao Y. , Fu S.
Published: March 2017

In this study, a series of numerical experiments are performed on supersonic/hypersonic flows over an adiabatic flat plate with transitionally and fully rough surfaces. The Mach numbers simulated are 4, 5, 6, and 7; the flight heights considered are 20, 24, 28, 32, and 36 km. First, a modified roughness correction is proposed and validated with the measured data for low-speed flat-plate cases. It is verified that for the equivalent sand grain heights in the intermediate and fully rough regimes, there is a good agreement with the semi-empirical formula available in the open literature. Then, this roughness correction is applied to high-speed flow regime to investigate the effects of flight heights and Mach numbers on drag for rough-wall flat-plate cases. It is found that within the roughness measured in real flight, the roughness height change has little effect on drag compared to the variations of both flight heights and Mach numbers. The drag coefficient derivation between rough-wall and smooth-wall conditions, achieves the maximum value of 0.79% for the 60 cases selected.
LAWS OF CREDENCE AND LAWS OF CHOICE
Authors: Horowitz Sophie
Published: March 2017

InAccuracy and the Laws of Credence, Richard Pettigrew gives several decision-theoretic arguments for formal requirements on rational credence. Pettigrew's arguments build on a central notion of epistemic value, but employ different decision rules. These comments explore how our choice of decision rule might matter, and discuss one of Pettigrew's arguments in detail: his argument for the Principle of Indifference, which relies on Maximin.
Acceleration of energetic electrons by waves in inhomogeneous solar wind plasmas
Authors: Krafft C. , Volokitin A.
Published: March 2017

The paper studies the influence of the background plasma density fluctuations on the dynamics of the Langmuir turbulence generated by electron beams, for parameters typical for solar type III beams and plasmas near 1 AU. A self-consistent Hamiltonian model based on the Zakharov and the Newton equations is used, which presents several advantages compared to the Vlasov approach. Beams generating Langmuir turbulence can be accelerated as a result of wave transformation effects or/and decay cascade processes; in both cases, the beam-driven Langmuir waves transfer part of their energy to waves of smaller wavenumbers, which can be reabsorbed later on by beam particles of higher velocities. As a consequence, beams can conserve a large part of their initial kinetic energy while propagating and radiating wave turbulence over long distances in inhomogeneous plasmas. Beam particles can also be accelerated in quasi-homogeneous plasmas due to the second cascade of wave decay, the wave transformation processes being very weak in this case. The net gains and losses of energy of a beam and the wave turbulence it radiates are calculated as a function of the average level of plasma density fluctuations and the beam parameters. The results obtained provide relevant information on the mechanism of energy reabsorption by beams radiating Langmuir turbulence in solar wind plasmas.
Life transitions and leisure activity engagement in later life: findings from the Consumption and Activities Mail Survey (CAMS)
Authors: LEE YURA , MIN JOOHONG , CHI IRIS
Published: March 2017

This study examined engagement in leisure activities among older adults, specifically focusing on how life transition factors in later life, including retirement and marital status, are associated with leisure activity engagement using a national sample of older American men and women. We conducted multiple regression analyses with a sample of 5,405 individuals (2,318 men; 3,087 women) from the Consumption and Activities Mail Survey, a supplementary sample of the Health and Retirement Study. We analysed activity engagement in each of four domains of leisure activities: mental, physical, social and religious. Retirement status was categorised into three groups: working (referent), completely retired and partly retired. Marital status was categorised into four groups: married (referent), divorced or separated, widowed and never married. We found an overall trend of a positive relationship between retirement and leisure activity engagement, which suggests that retirement provides a chance for older adults to participate in leisure activities after withdrawal from the labour force. The overall trend of a negative relationship between non-married status and leisure activity engagement suggests that the loss or absence of a spouse may serve as a barrier to participate in leisure activities. Nevertheless, variation among retirees and non-married individuals suggests future studies should compare completely and partly retired individuals or those who are widowed, divorced or separated, or never married to elucidate distinguishable leisure activity profiles.
Aortic rupture during stenting for recurrent aortic coarctation in an adult: live-saving, emergency, NuDEL all-in-one covered stent implantation
Authors: Eicken Andreas , Georgiev Stanimir , Ewert Peter
Published: March 2017

We report a case of successful, life-saving implantation of a covered Cheatham Platinum stent, an all-in-one NuDEL catheter system, in an adult with aortic rupture after bare-metal stenting for re-coarctation of the aorta.
LATE THOUGHTS ON THE TEXT OF SENECA'S TRAGEDIES
Authors: Fitch John G.
Published: March 2017

This article elucidates some of the author's editorial decisions in his revised Loeb edition of Seneca's tragedies. It explains his new thinking about the text and interpretation atPhoen176–7,Med891–2,Oed403–4,Ag481,Thy1032,HO1016; offers further defence of the author's interpretation atPhoen23,Oed178, 370, 942,Thy46–8,Oct47–8, 761; and re-evaluates fourteen further passages in the light of recent scholarship.
Multi-Octave bandwidth, 100 W GaN power amplifier using planar transmission line transformer
Authors: Arnous Mhd Tareq , Zhang Zihui , Rautschke Felix , Boeck Georg
Published: March 2017

In this paper, design, implementation, and experimental results of efficient, high-power, and multi-octave gallium nitride-high electron mobility transistor power amplifier are presented. To overcome the low optima source/load impedances of a large transistor, various topologies of a broadside-coupled impedance transformer are simulated, implemented, and measured. The used transformer has a flat measured insertion loss of 0.5 dB and a return loss higher than 10 dB over a decade bandwidth (0.4–4 GHz). The transformer is integrated at the drain and gate sides of the transistor using pre-matching networks to transform the complex optima source/load impedances to the appropriate impedances of the transformer plane. The measurement results illustrate a saturated output power ranged between 80 and 115 W with an average drain efficiency of 57% and gain of 10.5 dB across 0.6–2.6 GHz.
Ten-Eleven Translocation-2 (Tet2) Is Involved in Myogenic Differentiation of Skeletal Myoblast Cells in Vitro
Authors: Zhong Xia , Wang Qian-Qian , Li Jian-Wei , Zhang Yu-Mei , An Xiao-Rong , Hou Jian
Published: March 2017

Muscle cell differentiation is a complex process that is principally governed by related myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs). DNA methylation is considered to play an important role on the expression of MRF genes and on muscle cell differentiation. However, the roles of enzymes specifically in myogenesis are not fully understood. Here, we demonstrate that Tet2, a ten-eleven translocation (Tet) methylcytosine dioxygenase, exerts a role during skeletal myoblast differentiation. By using an immunostaining method, we found that the levels of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) were much higher in differentiated myotubes than in undifferentiated C2C12 myoblasts. Both Tet1 and Tet2 expression were upregulated after differentiation induction of C2C12 myoblasts. Knockdown of Tet2, but not Tet1, significantly reduced the expression of myogenin as well as Myf6 and myomaker, and impaired myoblast differentiation. DNA demethylation of myogenin and myomaker promoters was negatively influenced by Tet2 knockdown as detected by bisulfite sequencing analysis. Furthermore, although vitamin C could promote genomic 5hmC generation, myogenic gene expression and myoblast differentiation, its effect was significantly attenuated by Tet2 knockdown. Taken together, these results indicate that Tet2 is involved in myoblast differentiation through promoting DNA demethylation and myogenic gene expression.
Control quantum evolution speed of a single dephasing qubit for arbitrary initial states via periodic dynamical decoupling pulses
Authors: Song Ya-Ju , Tan Qing-Shou , Kuang Le-Man
Published: March 2017

We investigate the possibility to control quantum evolution speed of a single dephasing qubit for arbitrary initial states by the use of periodic dynamical decoupling (PDD) pulses. It is indicated that the quantum speed limit time (QSLT) is determined by initial and final quantum coherence of the qubit, as well as the non-Markovianity of the system under consideration during the evolution when the qubit is subjected to a zero-temperature Ohmic-like dephasing reservoir. It is shown that final quantum coherence of the qubit and the non-Markovianity of the system can be modulated by PDD pulses. Our results show that for arbitrary initial states of the dephasing qubit with non-vanishing quantum coherence, PDD pulses can be used to induce potential acceleration of the quantum evolution in the short-time regime, while PDD pulses can lead to potential speedup and slow down in the long-time regime. We demonstrate that the effect of PDD on the QSLT for the Ohmic or sub-Ohmic spectrum (Markovian reservoir) is much different from that for the super-Ohmic spectrum (non-Markovian reservoir).
Enhanced cellular uptake of size-separated lipophilic silicon nanoparticles
Authors: Kusi-Appiah Aubrey E. , Mastronardi Melanie L. , Qian Chenxi , Chen Kenneth K. , Ghazanfari Lida , Prommapan Plengchart , Kübel Christian , Ozin Geoffrey A. , Lenhert Steven
Published: March 2017

Specific size, shape and surface chemistry influence the biological activity of nanoparticles. In the case of lipophilic nanoparticles, which are widely used in consumer products, there is evidence that particle size and formulation influences skin permeability and that lipophilic particles smaller than 6 nm can embed in lipid bilayers. Since most nanoparticle synthetic procedures result in mixtures of different particles, post-synthetic purification promises to provide insights into nanostructure-function relationships. Here we used size-selective precipitation to separate lipophilic allyl-benzyl-capped silicon nanoparticles into monodisperse fractions within the range of 1 nm to 5 nm. We measured liposomal encapsulation and cellular uptake of the monodisperse particles and found them to have generally low cytotoxicities in Hela cells. However, specific fractions showed reproducibly higher cytotoxicity than other fractions as well as the unseparated ensemble. Measurements indicate that the cytotoxicity mechanism involves oxidative stress and the differential cytotoxicity is due to enhanced cellular uptake by specific fractions. The results indicate that specific particles, with enhanced suitability for incorporation into lipophilic regions of liposomes and subsequent in vitro delivery to cells, are enriched in certain fractions.
Potential effects of climate change on geographic distribution of the Tertiary relict tree species Davidia involucrata in China
Authors: Tang Cindy Q. , Dong Yi-Fei , Herrando-Moraira Sonia , Matsui Tetsuya , Ohashi Haruka , He Long-Yuan , Nakao Katsuhiro , Tanaka Nobuyuki , Tomita Mizuki , Li Xiao-Shuang , Yan Hai-Zhong , Peng Ming-Chun , Hu Jun , Yang Ruo-Han , Li Wang-Jun , Yan Kai , Hou Xiuli , Zhang Zhi-Ying , López-Pujol Jordi
Published: March 2017

This study, using species distribution modeling (involving a new approach that allows for uncertainty), predicts the distribution of climatically suitable areas prevailing during the mid-Holocene, the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), and at present, and estimates the potential formation of new habitats in 2070 of the endangered and rare Tertiary relict tree Davidia involucrata Baill. The results regarding the mid-Holocene and the LGM demonstrate that south-central and southwestern China have been long-term stable refugia, and that the current distribution is limited to the prehistoric refugia. Given future distribution under six possible climate scenarios, only some parts of the current range of D. involucrata in the mid-high mountains of south-central and southwestern China would be maintained, while some shift west into higher mountains would occur. Our results show that the predicted suitable area offering high probability (0.5‒1) accounts for an average of only 29.2% among the models predicted for the future (2070), making D. involucrata highly vulnerable. We assess and propose priority protected areas in light of climate change. The information provided will also be relevant in planning conservation of other paleoendemic species having ecological traits and distribution ranges comparable to those of D. involucrata.