bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global chondrocyte gene expression after a single anabolic loading period: Time evolution and re‐inducibility of mechano‐responses
Authors: Scholtes Simone , Krämer Elisabeth , Weisser Melanie , Roth Wolfgang , Luginbühl Reto , Grossner Tobias , Richter Wiltrud
Published: March 2017

Aim of this study was a genome‐wide identification of mechano‐regulated genes and candidate pathways in human chondrocytes subjected to a single anabolic loading episode and characterization of time evolution and re‐inducibility of the response. Osteochondral constructs consisting of a chondrocyte‐seeded collagen‐scaffold connected to β‐tricalcium‐phosphate were pre‐cultured for 35 days and subjected to dynamic compression (25% strain, 1 Hz, 9 × 10 min over 3 hr) before microarray‐profiling was performed. Proteoglycan synthesis was determined by 35S‐sulfate‐incorporation over 24 hr. Cell viability and hardness of constructs were unaltered by dynamic compression while proteoglycan synthesis was significantly stimulated (1.45‐fold, p = 0.016). Among 115 significantly regulated genes, 114 were up‐regulated, 48 of them ≥ twofold. AP‐1‐relevant transcription factors FOSB and FOS strongly increased in line with elevated ERK1/2‐phosphorylation and rising MAP3K4 expression. Expression of proteoglycan‐synthesizing enzymes CHSY1 and GALNT4 was load‐responsive as were factors associated with the MAPK‐, TGF‐β‐, calcium‐, retinoic‐acid‐, Wnt‐, and Notch‐signaling pathway which were significantly upregulated SOX9, and BMP6 levels rose significantly also after multiple loading episodes at daily intervals even at the 14th cycle with no indication for desensitation. Canonical pSmad2/3 and pSmad1/5/9‐signaling showed no consistent regulation. This study associates novel genes with mechanoregulation in chondrocytes, raising SOX9 protein levels with anabolic loading and suggests that more pathways than so far anticipated apparently work together in a complex network of stimulators and feedback‐regulators. Upregulation of mechanosensitive indicators extending differentially into the resting time provides crucial knowledge to maximize cartilage matrix deposition for the generation of high‐level cartilage replacement tissue.
Red mud as secondary source for critical raw materials – purification of rare earth elements by liquid/liquid extraction
Authors: Ujaczki Éva , Zimmermann Yannick , Gasser Christoph , Molnár Mónika , Feigl Viktória , Lenz Markus
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Critical raw materials (CRM) are crucial to Europe's economy and essential to maintaining and improving our quality of life due to their usage for production of many devices. Red mud is generated from alumina production where bauxite is digested in hot sodium hydroxide solution during the Bayer process. Red mud can contain considerable amounts of CRM such as rare earth elements (REEs). In the present study, purification of CRM from perturbing, co‐extracted elements such as Fe and Al from red mud hydrochloric acid leachates was evaluated.

RESULTS

A first purification was achieved by removing Fe (>87%) from the acidic leachate using precipitation with NaOH. REEs as well as Al were hardly removed by precipitation (21%, and 33%, resp.). A second purification was achieved using liquid/liquid extraction (LLE) with di‐(2‐ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid (D2EHPA). Here, four explanatory variables (i.e. LLE organic/aqueous ratio, D2EHPA concentration in kerosene, stripping acid organic/aqueous ratio, HCl concentration) were studied. Finally, the optimal extraction conditions maximizing the economic potential (total metal extracted × economic value of the respective metal) of CRM were determined using a design of experiment approach.

CONCLUSION

The experimentally determined economic potential extracted corresponded well to the prediction (88%; to the predictions, maximum recovery of 17.18 ± 0.59 US $ t−1). Ultimately, more than 40% of the overall REEs (>62% of the leachable REEs) in red mud were purified using LLE, whereas Al was successfully rejected from the concentrate (∼5% of the overall Al present). © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Ion cum molecularly dual imprinted polymer for simultaneous removal of cadmium and salicylic acid
Authors: Rahangdale Deepali , Kumar Anupama , Archana G. , Dhodapkar Rita Sandip
Published: March 2017

Ion cum molecularly dual imprinted polymer (DMIP) was synthesized for the simultaneous removal of salicylic acid (SA) and cadmium (Cd) by suspension polymerization method using chitosan (CTS) as functional polymer, epichlorohydrin as cross‐linker, and 4‐hydroxy benzoic acid (4HBA) as well as Cd as organic and inorganic templates, respectively. Use of the dummy template 4HBA during the synthesis of DMIP had the advantage of creating imprinted cavities in DMIP, which depicted good uptake for SA. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated successful preparation of DMIP. Particle size analysis confirmed polydispersity, and thermal and swelling studies indicated the mechanical stability in DMIP. The rebinding capacities of the DMIP for Cd and SA were found to be 38.46 and 23.81 mgg‐1, respectively, under the optimize condition of the time, dose, and concentration. Adsorption isotherm results fitted into Langmuir adsorption isotherm model with the R2 values of 0.994 and 0.995 for Cd and SA, respectively. The presence of intramolecular hydrogen bonding in SA, stability of the template‐monomer complexes (CTS‐SA and CTS‐4HBA), and the involvement of the hydroxyl groups on DMIP for the uptake of SA has been supported by molecular modeling studies using Gaussian 03 software. The electron doublet of the amino groups of DMIP was involved for the uptake of Cd. Lower binding efficiency of DMIP for SA as compared to Cd may be due to the partial participation of hydroxyl group in cross‐linking with epichlorohydrin during the synthesis of DMIP.
Divergent NEE balances from manual‐chamber CO2 fluxes linked to different measurement and gap‐filling strategies: A source for uncertainty of estimated terrestrial C sources and sinks?
Authors: Huth Vytas , Vaidya Shrijana , Hoffmann Mathias , Jurisch Nicole , Günther Anke , Gundlach Laura , Hagemann Ulrike , Elsgaard Lars , Augustin Jürgen
Published: March 2017

Manual closed‐chamber measurements are commonly used to quantify annual net CO2 ecosystem exchange (NEE) in a wide range of terrestrial ecosystems. However, differences in both the acquisition and gap filling of manual closed‐chamber data are large in the existing literature, complicating inter‐study comparisons and meta analyses. The aim of this study was to compare common approaches for quantifying CO2 exchange at three methodological levels. (1) The first level included two different CO2 flux measurement methods: one via measurements during mid‐day applying net coverages (mid‐day approach) and one via measurements from sunrise to noon (sunrise approach) to capture a span of light conditions for measurements of NEE with transparent chambers. (2) The second level included three different methods of pooling measured ecosystem respiration (RECO) fluxes for empirical modeling of RECO: campaign‐wise (19 single‐measurement‐day RECO models), season‐wise (one RECO model for the entire study period), and cluster‐wise (two RECO models representing a low and a high vegetation status). (3) The third level included two different methods of deriving fluxes of gross primary production (GPP): by subtracting either proximately measured RECO fluxes (direct GPP modeling) or empirically modeled RECO fluxes from measured NEE fluxes (indirect GPP modeling). Measurements were made during 2013–2014 in a lucerne‐clover‐grass field in NE Germany. Across the different combinations of measurement and gap‐filling options, the NEE balances of the agricultural field diverged strongly (–200 to 425 g CO2‐C m−2). NEE balances were most similar to previous studies when derived from sunrise measurements and indirect GPP modeling. Overall, the large variation in NEE balances resulting from different data‐acquisition or gap‐filling strategies indicates that these methodological decisions should be made very carefully and that they likely add to the overall uncertainty of greenhouse gas emission factors. Preferably, a standard approach should be developed to reduce the uncertainty of upscaled estimates.
Phytosterols on growth performance, antioxidant enzymes and intestinal morphology in weaned piglets
Authors: Hu Qiaoling , Li Sisi , Zhang Yiwei , Zhuo Zhao , Feng Jie
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Plant extracts have been used widely to improve growth, lower cholesterol, and exert antioxidative defense and antimicrobial activities in animal production. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary phytosterols (PS) on growth performance, antioxidant enzymes and intestinal morphology in weaned piglets.

RESULTS

A total of 120 crossbred piglets, weighing 9.58 ± 0.26 kg, were randomly allocated to three treatments: control, PS (0.2 g kg−1) and polymyxin E (0.04 g kg−1, antibiotic control). Compared to the control, PS or polymyxin E supplementation decreased diarrhea rate, serum cholesterol and malondialdehyde (MDA) of the piglets (P < 0.05). Liver MDA was significantly decreased in PS‐fed piglets compared to the control (P < 0.05), although there was no difference between the control and polymyxin E‐fed piglets. PS increased the villous height/crypt depth ratio of the duodenum and jejunum compared to the control (P < 0.05). Polymyxin E supplementation in piglets did not alter the villous height/crypt depth ratio but raised the villous height and crypt depth of the duodenum compared to the control (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study indicated that PS could decrease diarrhea rate, lower serum cholesterol, reduce lipid peroxidation and ameliorate intestinal morphology in weaned piglets. In addition, PS exerted better amelioration on intestinal morphology than polymyxin E in piglets. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of dietary plant extract on meat quality and sensory parameters of meat from Equidae
Authors: Rossi Raffaella , Ratti Sabrina , Pastorelli Grazia , Maghin Federica , Martemucci Giovanni , Casamassima Donato , D'Alessandro Angela Gabriella , Corino Carlo
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Plant extracts as Lippia spp. have been proven antioxidant properties. Recent studies have been shown that dietary supplementation with plant extracts is able to enhance meat quality parameters. Studies regarding meat quality in Equidae are limited.

RESULTS

The effect of dietary plant extract (PE), containing verbascoside, on meat quality, oxidative stability and sensory parameters of Longissimus Lumborum (LL) muscle in Equidae was studied. Dietary treatment did not affect (P > 0.05) pH, colour indices and chemical parameters of muscle in both donkey and horse. Dietary PE improved (P < 0.01) oxidative stability in donkey muscle during refrigerated storage. Sensory characteristics of LL muscle were positively affected (P < 0.05) by dietary PE in both donkey and horse. In particular, colour, taste and texture were enhanced in LL muscle from animals fed PE. Oxidative stability was lower (P < 0.05) in LL muscle of horse than that of donkey.

CONCLUSION

Dietary plant extract, containing verbascoside, can be considered as a natural source of antioxidants, and is also able to improve oxidative stability of donkey meat and to affect the sensory attributes of Equidae meat. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Subtotal petrosectomy: Surgical technique, indications, outcomes, and comprehensive review of literature
Authors: Prasad Sampath Chandra , Roustan Valeria , Piras Gianluca , Caruso Antonio , Lauda Lorenzo , Sanna Mario
Published: March 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe the technique of subtotal petrosectomy (STP), to analyze the outcomes, and to review the literature

Study Design

A retrospective review.

Methods

Four hundred sixty cases of STP performed for various indications were included in the study, which was conducted at a quaternary referral center for otology and skull base surgery. Surgical and audiological parameters, and complications were evaluated. Our results were compared with the existing literature on the subject.

Results

Two hundred ninety‐seven (64.6%) patients had been subjected to multiple surgeries before an STP was performed. The most common indication for STP was recurrent chronic otitis with or without cholesteatoma, with 165 (35.9%) patients. Difficult cases of cochlear implantation, temporal bone fractures, and class B3 tympanomastoid paragangliomas were the next most common indications, with 91 (19.8%), 43 (9.4%), and 38 (8.3%) cases, respectively. The median follow‐up of the patient pool was 36 ± 19 months. Recidivism and postauricular wound fistula were the most common complications, seen in five (1.1%) patients each. This series of STP is the largest reported in the literature

Conclusions

STP is a very useful and safe surgical tool in the management of a variety of problematic situations in otology, as it offers the possibility of a definitive cure by offering radical clearance. This procedure can be combined safely with hearing implantation procedures.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2833–2842, 2017
Audiovestibular symptoms as predictors of prolonged sports‐related concussion among NCAA athletes
Authors: Chorney Stephen R. , Suryadevara Amar C. , Nicholas Brian D.
Published: March 2017

Objective

We looked to determine the rates of audiovestibular symptoms following sports‐related concussions among collegiate athletes. Further, we assessed the correlation between these symptoms and the time to return to participation in athletic activity.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Injury Surveillance System (NCAA‐ISS).

Methods

The NCAA‐ISS was queried from 2009 through 2014 for seven men's sports and eight women's sports across divisions 1, 2, and 3. Injuries resulting in concussions were analyzed for audiovestibular symptoms, duration of symptoms, and return to participation times.

Results

From 2009 to 2014, there were 1,647 recorded sports‐related concussions, with athletes reporting dizziness (68.2%), imbalance (35.8%), disorientation (31.4%), noise sensitivity (29.9%), and tinnitus (8.5%). Concussion symptoms resolved within 1 day (17.1%), within 2 to 7 days (50.0%), within 8 to 30 days (25.9%), or persisted over 1 month (7.0%). Return to participation occurred within 1 week (38.3%), within 1 month (53.0%), or over 1 month (8.7%). Using Mann‐Whitney U testing, overall symptom duration and return to competition time were significantly increased when any of these symptoms were present (P < 0.05). Duration of concussion symptom correlated with dizziness (P = 0.043) and noise sensitivity (P = 0.000), whereas return to participation times correlated with imbalance (P = 0.011) and noise sensitivity (P = 0.000). Dizziness and imbalance (odds ratio: 4.15, confidence interval: 3.20–5.38, P < 0.001) were the two symptoms with the strongest association.

Conclusion

Audiovestibular symptoms are common complaints among collegiate athletes sustaining concussions. Dizziness and noise sensitivity correlated with the duration of concussive symptoms, whereas imbalance and noise sensitivity was correlated with prolonged return to competition time.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2850–2853, 2017
The state of academic sleep surgery: A survey of United States residency and fellowship programs
Authors: Gouveia Christopher J. , Kern Robert C. , Liu Stanley Yung‐Chuan , Capasso Robson
Published: March 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Our objectives were to describe otolaryngology residency programs' experience in and attitudes toward sleep surgery, and describe current otolaryngology sleep fellowships and their impact on future academic practice.

Study Design

E‐mail survey.

Methods

A survey was e‐mailed to program directors of 106 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education‐accredited otolaryngology residencies assessing resident sleep medicine experience, program satisfaction, and impact of sleep faculty. A separate survey was sent to directors of the seven sleep medicine otolaryngology fellowships. Frequency of graduates pursuing academic careers was examined.

Results

Forty‐six (43.4%) residency programs responded. Thirty‐one (67.4%) have a faculty member with any time spent practicing sleep medicine or surgery. Nineteen (41.3%) have a faculty member with >50% dedicated sleep practice and/or who is board certified in sleep medicine. These programs were significantly more likely to respond “extremely” or “very” satisfied with resident sleep exposure than those without (P < .001). Most programs (69.6%) “strongly agreed” or “agreed” their program would benefit from a dedicated sleep surgeon; there was no significant difference in response rates between programs already with and those without dedicated sleep faculty. All fellowship directors responded. In the past 5 years these programs have trained 11 total fellows. Ten (90.9%) have remained in academic practice.

Conclusions

There is significantly increased satisfaction in resident sleep education at otolaryngology programs with dedicated sleep providers. Concurrently, there is strong program interest in sleep surgeons' involvement in resident training. Sleep fellowships are producing surgeons who pursue academic careers. This study provides support to training fellowship‐specialized sleep surgeons and encouraging otolaryngology sleep faculty.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 127:2423–2428, 2017
Real‐time continuous image‐guided surgery: Preclinical investigation in glossectomy
Authors: Tabanfar Reza , Qiu Jimmy , Chan Harley , Aflatouni Niousha , Weersink Robert , Hasan Wael , Irish Jonathan C.
Published: March 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To develop, validate, and study the efficacy of an intraoperative real‐time continuous image‐guided surgery (RTC‐IGS) system for glossectomy.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Methods

We created a RTC‐IGS system and surgical simulator for glossectomy, enabling definition of a surgical target preoperatively, real‐time cautery tracking, and display of a surgical plan intraoperatively. System performance was evaluated by a group of otolaryngology residents, fellows, medical students, and staff under a reproducible setting by using realistic tongue phantoms. Evaluators were grouped into a senior and a junior group based on surgical experience, and guided and unguided tumor resections were performed. National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA‐TLX) scores and a Likert scale were used to measure workloads and impressions of the system, respectively. Efficacy was studied by comparing surgical accuracy, time, collateral damage, and workload between RTC‐IGS and non‐navigated resections.

Results

The senior group performed more accurately (80.9% ± 3.7% vs. 75.2% ± 5.5%, P = .28), required less time (5.0 ± 1.3 minutes vs. 7.3 ± 1.2 minutes, P = .17), and experienced lower workload (43 ± 2.0 vs. 64.4 ± 1.3 NASA‐TLX score, P = .08), suggesting a trend of construct validity. Impressions were favorable, with participants reporting the system is a valuable practice tool (4.0/5 ± 0.3) and increases confidence (3.9/5 ± 0.4). Use of RTC‐IGS improved both groups' accuracy, with the junior group improving from 64.4% ± 5.4% to 75.2% ± 5.5% (P = .01) and the senior group improving from 76.1% ± 4.5% to 80.9% ± 3.7% (P = .16).

Conclusions

We created an RTC‐IGS system and surgical simulator and demonstrated a trend of construct validity. Our navigated simulator allows junior trainees to practice glossectomies outside the operating room. In all evaluators, navigation assistance resulted in increased surgical accuracy.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 127:E347–E353, 2017
The prodromal phase of leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2–associated Parkinson disease: Clinical and imaging Studies
Authors: Pont‐Sunyer Claustre , Tolosa Eduardo , Caspell‐Garcia Chelsea , Coffey Christopher , Alcalay Roy N. , Chan Piu , Duda John E. , Facheris Maurizio , Fernández‐Santiago Rubén , Marek Kenneth , Lomeña Francisco , Marras Connie , Mondragon Elisabet , Saunders‐Pullman Rachel , Waro Bjorg ,   on behalf of LRRK2 Cohort Consortium
Published: March 2017

Background: Asymptomatic, nonmanifesting carriers of leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 mutations are at increased risk of developing PD. Clinical and neuroimaging features may be associated with gene carriage and/or may demarcate individuals at greater risk for phenoconversion to PD.

Objectives: To investigate clinical and dopamine transporter single‐photon emission computed tomography imaging characteristics of leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 asymptomatic carriers.

Methods: A total of 342 carriers' and 259 noncarriers' relatives of G2019S leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2/PD patients and 39 carriers' and 31 noncarriers' relatives of R1441G leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2/PD patients were evaluated. Motor and nonmotor symptoms were assessed using specific scales and questionnaires. Neuroimaging quantitative data were obtained in 81 carriers and compared with 41 noncarriers.

Results: G2019S carriers scored higher in motor scores and had lower radioligand uptake compared to noncarriers, but no differences in nonmotor symptoms scores were observed. R1441G carriers scored higher in motor scores, had lower radioligand uptake, and had higher scores in depression, dysautonomia, and Rapid Eye Movements Sleep Behavior Disorder Screening Questionnaire scores, but had better cognition scores than noncarriers. Among G2019S carriers, a group with “mild motor signs” was identified, and was significantly older, with worse olfaction and lower radioligand uptake.

Conclusions: G2019S and R1441G carriers differ from their noncarriers' relatives in higher motor scores and slightly lower radioligand uptake. Nonmotor symptoms were mild, and different nonmotor profiles were observed in G2019S carriers compared to R1441G carriers. A group of G2019S carriers with known prodromal features was identified. Longitudinal studies are required to determine whether such individuals are at short‐term risk of developing overt parkinsonism. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Anterior intercostal artery perforator flap in immediate breast reconstruction: Anatomical study and clinical application
Authors: Carrasco‐López Cristian , Julian Ibañez Juan Francisco , Vilà Jordi , Luna Tomás Miguel Angel , Navinés López Jordi , Pascual Miguel Iciar , Fernandez‐Llamazares‐Rodriguez Jaime , Higueras‐Suñe Carmen
Published: March 2017

Background

Although the use of lateral intercostal artery perforator (ICAP) flaps for immediate breast reconstruction has been widely described, data on the use of the anterior ICAP (AICAP) flaps for this indication are limited. In this context, we describe the results of anatomical study and our clinical experience with AICAP flaps for breast reconstruction.

Methods

In this study, the location and characteristics of the AICAPs were dissected in 12 female adult formalin‐preserved hemitrunks and two fresh‐frozen cadavers. Fourteen patients (mean BMI 23) underwent partial breast resection for a quadrant breast cancer followed by breast reconstruction with an intercostal perforator flap. The mean resection size was 6 × 5 × 5.5 cm (range 3–8 × 3.5–7 × 4–8 cm).The main outcome measures were pre‐operative and postradiotherapy health‐related quality of life assessed with the BREAST‐Q reconstruction survey.

Results

According to anatomical study, at least one perforator was found in each third of hemitrunks dissected. The mean of perforator size was in diameter 0.42 ± 0.05 mm and in length 3.1 ± 0.36 cm. In clinical outcomes, the mean of flap size was 16 × 5 × 3 cm (range 14–19 × 3–8 × 2–5 cm). The mean surgical time was 120 min (range 109–125 min). Only one partial flap failure was detected. No postoperative changes in breast size were observed, although soft tissue changes were observed in four patients after radiotherapy. The mean BREAST‐Q scores changes were 0 in satisfaction with the breast, 5 in satisfaction with outcome, 0 in psychosocial well‐being, 6.15 in sexual well being, and 34.69 in physical well‐being.

Conclusions

Based on this anatomical and clinical study, we found AICAP flap has a consistent vascularization with good perforators. And moreover, it is suitable for partial breast reconstruction (quadrantectomy) and does not appear to negatively impact patient satisfaction.
“Half‐folded” pedicled scapular bone flap for nonunion after humeral neck fracture: A case report
Authors: Matsumae Gen , Motomiya Makoto , Watanabe Naoya , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: March 2017

Treatment of a nonunion of the proximal humerus remains a challenge because of the small proximal fragment and poor central cancellous bone stock of the humeral head. In this report, we describe our experience using a “half‐folded” pedicled scapular bone flap with an anatomical locking plate to treat an atrophic nonunion of the proximal humerus in a 64‐year‐old right‐handed woman. The patient had fallen and experienced a common humeral neck fracture 2.5 years previously. During the operation, we elevated the pedicled scapular bone flap, which measured 8.0 cm long and 1.5 cm wide, with a vascular pedicle about 10 cm long. We modified the bone flap to the half‐folded type to fill the massive bone cavity in the humeral head. The proximal tip of the flap was divided into two segments while keeping the ventral soft tissue intact. The grafted bone bridging between the head and shaft of the humerus was rigidly fixed with a plate and screw. The operated shoulder was fixed with a sling and a chest belt for 3 weeks, after which the patient began active motion exercises of the shoulder joint. The flap survived without serious donor site morbidity, and good bone healing was obtained about 3.5 months after surgery. The patient was able to use the shoulder comfortably in daily activity without any serious donor site morbidity at 16 months after the surgery. This procedure may be effective in treating nonunion of the proximal humerus with a massive bone cavity in the humeral head.
Compact and low‐profile GaN hybrid‐IC based on TSV Si‐interposer technology
Authors: Yook Jong‐Min , Kim Dongsu , Kim Junchul
Published: March 2017

This article presents new compact, low‐profile GaN hybrid‐IC technologies. Three different kinds of IC integration methods based on a silicon substrate are studied to make GaN hybrid‐ICs. First, two hybrid‐IC LNAs are designed and fabricated to estimate their RF performances with the combination of a discrete transistor and silicon integrated passive devices (IPDs) in which an input and output matching networks are integrated as thin‐film devices. A wire‐bonding method is used to make interconnections between the two discrete devices. Second, the GaN HEMT transistor is fully embedded in the silicon interposer using a cavity to make a low‐profile package. All kinds of passive components for matching networks are also integrated on the Si‐interposer and their interconnections are made using lithography technology. Third, the TSV technology is added to the embedded IC package to make an easily assembled hybrid‐IC. In this hybrid IC, the GaN transistor is embedded in the Si‐interposer and I/Os are located under the package bottom as in a Quad Flat No‐leads (QFN) package structure. The size of the realized hybrid GaN power LNA is only 1.7 × 1.5 × 0.15 mm3 and it is almost the same as the commercial MMIC size. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1087–1092, 2017
Simultaneously two‐parameter measurement using tilted fiber grating and long period fiber grating
Authors: Yu Yi‐Lin , Hung Hzu‐Hsuan , Liaw Shien‐Kuei , Shih Min‐Hsiung , Kishikawa Hiroki , Goto Nobuo
Published: March 2017

We proposed and demonstrated a complex sensor, which combined a tilted fiber Bragg grating and a long period fiber grating. We used this sensor to measure the surrounding refractive index and temperature of an unknown liquid. The measured range of the temperature and environmental refractive index were 30–70°CC and 1.33–1.4, respectively. The measured results have linearly trend with high sensitivity. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1122–1125, 2017
Miniaturized dual‐band bandpass filter based on stepped impedance resonators
Authors: Kim Changsoon , Hyeon Lee Tae , Shrestha Bhanu , Chul Son Kwang
Published: March 2017

In this article, we developed a dual‐band band‐pass filter (DB‐BPF) based on stepped impedance resonators (SIRs) using coupled feeding lines input and output ports. The developed filter allows the adjustment of the frequency and the bandwidth of the upper band (3.8 GHz) and the lower band (2.4 GHz). The transmission coefficients of the DB‐BPF are improved by maximizing the coupling between the SIRs. Furthermore, the capability of the rejection band is increased and the insertion losses between the two pass‐bands are reduced. The experimental results for the insertion loss (S21) and the return loss (S11) of the lower band (2.4 GHz) were1.0 and 2.0 dB, respectively while the insertion loss and return loss for the upper band (3.8 GHz) were 23 and 25 dB, respectively. The 3 dB fractional bandwidths obtained for both bands were about 200 MHz and four transmission zeros around the passband edges were created to improve the selectivity of the DB‐BPF. The overall size of the DB‐BPF was also reduced significantly. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1116–1119, 2017
Compact wideband low temperature cofired ceramic bandpass filter using coupled shorted U‐shape sirs
Authors: Xiangjun Zhang , Yiming Chen , Hao Zhang
Published: March 2017

The design of a compact wideband the letter with U‐shape shorted step‐impedance‐resonator (SIR) using low temperature cofired ceramic technology is introduced in this article. The filter is composed of the four shorted SIRs embedded in multilayer thin ceramic to produced a compact size. By introducing the proper coupling structure, the filter has sharp skirt characteristic. The filter is demonstrated with experimental results operating at central frequency 1.80 GHz with a 3‐dB bandwidth of 75.0%. More than 30 dB of suppression from 0.5 to 1.4 GHz and more than 25 dB attenuation at 3.10 GHz are obtained in the experimental results. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1145–1147, 2017
Chipless RFID tag using high‐impedance surfaces with resistor loading
Authors: Ni Yi‐Zhan , Huang Xiao‐Dong , Cheng Chong‐Hu
Published: March 2017

This study presents a novel chipless radio frequency identification tag based on HIS structure with loaded resistors. The scatters are designed to be period nesting loops. The power of the back scatted signal is controlled by varying the resistance of loaded resistors. Its operation principle is described through an equivalent transmission line model. By applying the ASK coding technology, a coding density of 11.1 bits is obtained. Polarization independence is validated by measuring the tag in different polarization directions. The cases excited with an oblique incidence wave are also discussed. Experimental validations of the proposed tag have been presented together with considerations about practical implementation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1136–1140, 2017
Circularly polarized rectangular dielectric resonator antenna fed with unequal parallel microstrip lines for Wi‐MAX applications
Authors: Chowdhury Rakesh , Chaudhary Raghvendra Kumar
Published: March 2017

In this article, a circularly polarized rectangular dielectric resonator antenna (RDRA) is proposed for Wi‐MAX applications. Unequal parallel Microstrip lines are used as feed circuit. In the proposed structure fundamental mode similar to TE111 polarized in two orthogonal directions to generate orthogonal modes are generated. The proposed structure shows measured input impedance bandwidth (S11 < −10 dB) and axial ratio (AR < 3 dB) of 23.8% (at center frequency 3.31 GHz) and 9.2% (at center frequency 3.46 GHz), respectively. It exhibits excellent radiation pattern and average gain of 5.5 dB in working frequency range. The proposed design is suitable for Wi‐MAX applications (3.3–3.7 GHz). Radiation efficiency over 95% (3.3–3.6 GHz) is achieved in the proposed structure. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1182–1188, 2017
Transparent microstrip line with IZTO/AG/IZTO multilayer electrode
Authors: Hong Seungman , Kim Youngsung , Jung Young‐Bae , Jung Chang Won
Published: March 2017

This article presents a transparent microstrip line made of a transparent multilayer electrode (IZTO/Ag/IZTO) to investigate its feasibility in high frequency usage. The average transmittance of the transparent multilayer electrode is 81% in the range of visible wavelength and average conductivity is ∼2 × 106 S/m. The transparent microstrip lines, which are deposited on transparent acryl and glass substrates are fabricated and compared with the copper microstrip lines, which are printed on conventional microwave substrates, FR‐4. The transmission coefficient (S21) and reflection coefficient (S11) of the proposed microstrip line have been measured and reported. In addition, transparent microstrip lines on transparent ground planes have also been fabricated and measured with three IZTO/Ag/IZTO (IAI) electrodes (Thickness of Ag = 10, 12, 14 nm). © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1161–1164, 2017
Flexible polarization‐dependent absorbers based on patterned carbon nanotubes films
Authors: Danlée Yann , Bailly Christian , Huynen Isabelle
Published: March 2017

We present a thin and flexible broadband polarizer‐absorber concept based on a multi‐layered anisotropic arrangement of carbon nanotubes (CNT) and polymer films. The anisotropic layers consist of CNT striplines deposited over a prepared polycarbonate surface. Stacks of the patterned composites organized in gradient of layer conductivity are very effective for polarization‐sensitive absorption of incident microwaves. This specific arrangement drastically decreases undesired reflection and yields an average degree of polarization of 0.46 for a millimeter‐thick multilayer over the 8–67 GHz range. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1164–1167, 2017
Superstrate loaded miniaturized patch for biomedical telemetry
Authors: Mohamed Abdelrahman E. , Muqaibel Ali H. , Sharawi Mohammad S.
Published: March 2017

A Superstrate loaded miniaturized patch antenna is proposed for biomedical applications. The targeted operating frequency is (902–928 MHz) ISM band with a center frequency of 915 MHz. The antenna is designed to operate in close proximity with human‐body with a size of 25 × 25 × 1.92 mm3. Parametric studies were conducted to specify the dominant parameters and to understand their effect on the antenna performance. Measurements show that the fabricated antenna resonates around 915 MHz with a 30 MHz impedance bandwidth. On‐skin measurement results are presented for several spots on the human‐body. Furthermore, the transmission coefficient (S21) of the fabricated antenna is measured using lean beef slices with various thicknesses and showed good agreement with simulation results. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1212–1218, 2017
Band tuning of a waveguide antenna using a reflective metasurface
Authors: Wang Yelong , Qi Feng , Li Weifan
Published: March 2017

In this article, a new approach was proposed to tune the operation band of a waveguide antenna over 4 GHz. By loading an elaborately designed metasurface, the standing‐wave field in the waveguide was switched to a new distribution. This could shift the operation band to a new one. A sample antenna integrated with the metasurface was manufactured and measured. Both simulation and experimental results demonstrate that using abrupt reflection phases to control the antenna operation band is an effective approach. Also, the tuning method proposed here can be applied to other antennas to achieve higher tunability. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1218–1222, 2017
Design of a dual‐band microstrip branch‐line balun using T‐shaped coupled lines
Authors: Barik Rusan Kumar , Phani Kumar Kanaparthi V. , Karthikeyan S.S.
Published: March 2017

This article presents the development of a novel dual‐band branch line balun with design flexibility. The T‐shaped coupled line structure is constructed by two series short‐ended coupled lines and one open‐ended stub to obtain the dual‐band characteristics. The proposed dual‐band structure has the capability to design a conventional microstrip line with arbitrary impedances and electrical lengths at two different operating frequencies. In addition to this, different range of frequency ratios is obtained by varying the length of the stub. The required explicit design equations are derived analytically to compute the physical dimensions of the coupled lines and stub. Based on these equations, closely and widely spaced frequency bands useful for many wireless communication systems are devised. To prove better agility, three examples of dual‐band branch line baluns are designed. Finally, a prototype of dual‐band balun is demonstrated for GSM and WiMAX applications at 0.9 and 3.5 GHz, respectively. Good agreement is found between the theoretical predictions and experimental results. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1197–1202, 2017
Investigation of field uniformity and uncertainties in reverberation chamber using nonequidistant tuner position
Authors: Song Jian , Wang Hang , Guo Yong Xin
Published: March 2017

This paper investigates the field uniformity and uncertainties in a mode‐tuned reverberation chamber when nonequidistant tuner position is used. Both simulation and actual measurements have been carried out to compare the field uniformity and sample correlation between the conventional equidistant tuner position and nonequidistant tuner position. Results show that the standard deviation of the electric field is superior with the latter scheme and mean time the sample correlation has also been improved. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1190–1194, 2017
Assessment of alcoholic standard drinks using the Munich composite international diagnostic interview (M‐CIDI): An evaluation and subsequent revision
Authors: Kuitunen‐Paul Sören , Rehm Jürgen , Lachenmeier Dirk W. , Kadrić Firdeus , Kuitunen Paula T. , Wittchen Hans‐Ulrich , Manthey Jakob
Published: March 2017

The quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption are crucial both in risk assessment as well as epidemiological and clinical research. Using the Munich Composite International Diagnostic Interview (M‐CIDI), drinking amounts have been assessed in numerous large‐scale studies. However, the accuracy of this assessment has rarely been evaluated. This study evaluates the relevance of drink categories and pouring sizes, and the factors used to convert actual drinks into standard drinks. We compare the M‐CIDI to alternative drink assessment instruments and empirically validate drink categories using a general population sample (n = 3165 from Germany), primary care samples (n = 322 from Italy, n = 1189 from Germany), and a non‐representative set of k = 22503 alcoholic beverages sold in Germany in 2010–2016. The M‐CIDI supplement sheet displays more categories than other instruments (AUDIT, TLFB, WHO‐CIDI). Beer, wine, and spirits represent the most prevalent categories in the samples. The suggested standard drink conversion factors were inconsistent for different pouring sizes of the same drink and, to a smaller extent, across drink categories. For the use in Germany and Italy, we propose the limiting of drink categories and pouring sizes, and a revision of the proposed standard drinks. We further suggest corresponding examinations and revisions in other cultures.
B1‐sensitivity analysis of quantitative magnetization transfer imaging
Authors: Boudreau Mathieu , Stikov Nikola , Pike G. Bruce
Published: March 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the sensitivity of quantitative magnetization transfer (qMT) fitted parameters to B1 inaccuracies, focusing on the difference between two categories of T1 mapping techniques: B1‐independent and B1‐dependent.

Methods

The B1‐sensitivity of qMT was investigated and compared using two T1 measurement methods: inversion recovery (IR) (B1‐independent) and variable flip angle (VFA), B1‐dependent). The study was separated into four stages: 1) numerical simulations, 2) sensitivity analysis of the Z‐spectra, 3) healthy subjects at 3T, and 4) comparison using three different B1 imaging techniques.

Results

For typical B1 variations in the brain at 3T (±30%), the simulations resulted in errors of the pool‐size ratio (F) ranging from −3% to 7% for VFA, and −40% to > 100% for IR, agreeing with the Z‐spectra sensitivity analysis. In healthy subjects, pooled whole‐brain Pearson correlation coefficients for F (comparing measured double angle and nominal flip angle B1 maps) were ρ = 0.97/0.81 for VFA/IR.

Conclusion

This work describes the B1‐sensitivity characteristics of qMT, demonstrating that it varies substantially on the B1‐dependency of the T1 mapping method. Particularly, the pool‐size ratio is more robust against B1 inaccuracies if VFA T1 mapping is used, so much so that B1 mapping could be omitted without substantially biasing F. Magn Reson Med 79:276–285, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Body mass index trajectories of Indigenous Australian children and relation to screen time, diet, and demographic factors
Authors: Thurber Katherine Ann , Dobbins Timothy , Neeman Teresa , Banwell Cathy , Banks Emily
Published: March 2017

Objective

Limited cross‐sectional data indicate elevated overweight/obesity prevalence among Indigenous versus non‐Indigenous Australian children. This study aims to quantify body mass index (BMI) trajectories among Indigenous Australian children aged 3‐6 and 6‐9 years and to identify factors associated with the development of overweight/obesity.

Methods

Three‐year BMI change was examined in up to 1,157 children in the national Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children. BMI trajectories among children with normal baseline BMI (n = 907/1,157) were quantified using growth curve models.

Results

Baseline prevalences of overweight/obesity were 12.1% and 25.4% among children of mean age 3 and 6 years, respectively. Of children with normal baseline BMI, 31.9% had overweight/obesity 3 years later; BMI increased more rapidly for younger versus older (difference: 0.59 kg/m2/year; 95% CI: 0.50‐0.69), female versus male (difference: 0.15 kg/m2/year; 95% CI: 0.07‐0.23), and Torres Strait Islander versus Aboriginal (difference: 0.36 kg/m2/year; 95% CI: 0.17‐0.55) children. Results were consistent with less rapid rates of BMI increase for children with lower sugar‐sweetened beverage (including fruit juice) and high‐fat food consumption. Children's BMI was lower in more disadvantaged areas.

Conclusions

Overweight/obesity is common, and increases rapidly, in early childhood. Interventions are required to reduce the overweight/obesity prevalence among Indigenous Australian children in the first 3 years of life and to slow the rapid overweight/obesity onset from age 3 to 9 years.
Exercise training‐induced improvement in skeletal muscle PGC‐1α‐mediated fat metabolism is independent of dietary glycemic index
Authors: Mulya Anny , Haus Jacob M. , Solomon Thomas P.J. , Kelly Karen R. , Malin Steven K. , Rocco Michael , Barkoukis Hope , Kirwan John P.
Published: March 2017

Objective

This study hypothesized that a low‐glycemic diet combined with exercise would increase expression of nuclear regulators of fat transport and oxidation in insulin‐resistant skeletal muscle.

Method

Nineteen subjects (64 ± 1 y; 34 ± 1 kg/m2) were randomized to receive isocaloric high‐glycemic‐index (HiGIX; 80 ± 0.6 units, n = 10) or low‐glycemic‐index (LoGIX; 40 ± 0.3 units, n = 9) diets combined with supervised exercise (1 h/d, 5 d/wk at ∼85% HRmax) for 12 weeks. Insulin sensitivity was determined by hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp. Skeletal muscle biopsies were obtained before and after the intervention to assess fasting gene and protein expression.

Results

Weight loss was similar for both groups (9.5 ± 1.3 kg). Likewise, improvements in insulin sensitivity (P < 0.002) and PPARγ (P < 0.002), PGC‐1α (P = 0.003), CD36 (P = 0.003), FABP3 (mRNA, P = 0.01 and protein, P = 0.02), and CPT1B (mRNA, P = 0.03 and protein, P = 0.008) expression were similar for both interventions. Increased insulin sensitivity correlated with increased PGC‐1α expression (P = 0.04), and increased fasting fat oxidation correlated with increased FABP3 (P = 0.04) and CPT1B (P = 0.05) expression.

Conclusions

An exercise/diet program resulting in 8% to 10% weight loss improved insulin sensitivity and key molecular mechanisms in skeletal muscle that are controlled by PGC‐1α. These effects were independent of the glycemic index of the diets.
Robust observer‐based control for uncertain discrete time‐delay systems with nonlinearities electric‐hydraulic system under Hölder condition
Authors: Wang Xin , Zuo Xin , Liu Jian‐wei , Liang Hua‐qing
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the robustness andcontrol problems of output dynamic observer‐based control for uncertain discrete time‐delay systems with nonlinearities under a class of Hölder condition are considered. The parameter uncertainties enter into all the system matrices, the time‐varying delay is unknown with given lower and upper bounds, and the nonlinearities are described by satisfying a class ofαHölder condition. The asymptotic stabilization for uncertain time‐delay nonlinear system will be guaranteed. Linear matrix inequality optimization approach is used to design the robust observer‐basedoutput dynamic controls. The feedback control and observer gains are got from linear matrix inequality optimization feasible solution. Electric‐hydraulic system is described and used to illustrate the method.
Palbociclib has antitumour effects on Pten‐deficient endometrial neoplasias
Authors: Dosil Maria Alba , Mirantes Cristina , Eritja Núria , Felip Isidre , Navaridas Raúl , Gatius Sònia , Santacana Maria , Colàs Eva , Moiola Cristian , Schoenenberger Joan Antoni , Encinas Mario , Garí Eloi , Matias‐Guiu Xavier , Dolcet Xavier
Published: March 2017

PTEN is one of the most frequently mutated genes in human cancers. The frequency of PTEN alterations is particularly high in endometrial carcinomas. Loss of PTEN leads to dysregulation of cell division, and promotes the accumulation of cell cycle complexes such as cyclin D1–CDK4/6, which is an important feature of the tumour phenotype. Cell cycle proteins have been presented as key targets in the treatment of the pathogenesis of cancer, and several CDK inhibitors have been developed as a strategy to generate new anticancer drugs. Palbociclib (PD‐332991) specifically inhibits CDK4/6, and it has been approved for use in metastatic breast cancer in combination with letrazole. Here, we used a tamoxifen‐inducible Pten knockout mouse model to assess the antitumour effects of cyclin D1 knockout and CDK4/6 inhibition by palbociclib on endometrial tumours. Interestingly, both cyclin D1 deficiency and palbociclib treatment triggered shrinkage of endometrial neoplasias. In addition, palbociclib treatment significantly increased the survival of Pten‐deficient mice, and, as expected, had a general effect in reducing tumour cell proliferation. To further analyse the effects of palbociclib on endometrial carcinoma, we established subcutaneous tumours with human endometrial cancer cell lines and primary endometrial cancer xenografts, which allowed us to provide more translational and predictive data. To date, this is the first preclinical study evaluating the response to CDK4/6 inhibition in endometrial malignancies driven by PTEN deficiency, and it reveals an important role of cyclin D–CDK4/6 activity in their development. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.