bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DMBA acts on cumulus cells to desynchronize nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation of pig oocytes
Authors: Song Zhi-Qiang , Li Xuan , Wang Yan-Kui , Du Zhi-Qiang , Yang Cai-Xia
Published: May 2017

As an environmental pollutant and carcinogen, 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) can destroy ovarian follicles at all developmental stages in rodents. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains obscure. In the present study, we aim to address how DMBA affects the in vitro maturation and development of porcine oocytes. We discovered that for 20 μM DMBA-treated cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), the rate of oocyte germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) was significantly altered, and the extrusion rate of first polar body was increased. Moreover, oocytes from 20 μM DMBA-treated COCs had significant down-regulation of H3K9me3 and H3K27me3, up-regulation of H3K36me3, higher incidence of DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) and early apoptosis. In striking contrast, none of these changes happened to 20 μM DMBA-treated cumulus-denuded oocytes (CDOs). Furthermore, 20 μM DMBA treatment increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (Δ Ψm), and inhibited developmental competence for oocytes from both COC and CDO groups. Collectively, our data indicate DMBA could act on cumulus cells via the gap junction to disturb the synchronization of nuclear and ooplasmic maturation, and reduce the developmental competence of oocytes.
Characterization of Product and Potential Mechanism of Cr(VI) Reduction by Anaerobic Activated Sludge in a Sequencing Batch Reactor
Authors: Jin Ruofei , Liu Yao , Liu Guangfei , Tian Tian , Qiao Sen , Zhou Jiti
Published: May 2017

Bioremediation of Cr(VI) and nitrate is considered as a promising and cost-effective alternative to chemical and physical methods. However, organo-Cr(III) complexes in effluent generally causes environmental concerns due to second-pollution. Here, Cr(VI) reduction and immobilization efficiencies of anaerobic activated sludge were investigated. Anaerobic activated sludge showed strong reduction ability of Cr(VI) and possessed a great potential of Cr(III) immobilization. Almost 100.0 mg l−1Cr(VI) could be completely reduced and immobilized by anaerobic activated sludge in a sequencing batch reactor in 24 h. And most generated Cr(III) was accumulated outside of sludge cells. Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) could bind to Cr(VI) and form EPS-Cr(VI) interaction to reduce the toxic effect of Cr(VI) and promote the Cr(VI) reduction. Protein-like and humic-like substances were responsible for binding with Cr(VI), meanwhile the process was a thermodynamically favorable binding reaction. Then Cr(VI) was reduced to Cr(III) by membrane-associated chromate reductase of sludge. Eventually, the generated Cr(III) might exist as poly-nuclear Cr(III) complexes adhered to sludge surfaces.
Misoprostol for medical treatment of missed abortion: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Hang-lin , Marwah Sheeba , Wang Pei , Wang Qiu-meng , Chen Xiao-wen
Published: May 2017

The efficacy and safety of misoprostol alone for missed abortion varied with different regimens. To evaluate existing evidence for the medical management of missed abortion using misoprostol, we undertook a comprehensive review and meta-analysis. The electronic literature search was conducted using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, EBSCOhost Online Research Databases, Springer Link, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Ovid Medline and Google Scholar. 18 studies of 1802 participants were included in our analysis. Compared with vaginal misoprostol of 800 ug or sublingual misoprostol of 600 ug, lower-dose regimens (200 ug or 400 ug) by any route of administration tend to be significantly less effective in producing abortion within about 24 hours. In terms of efficacy, the most effective treatment was sublingual misoprostol of 600 ug and the least effective was oral misoprostol of 400 ug. In terms of tolerability, vaginal misoprostol of 400 ug was reported with fewer side effects and sublingual misoprostol of 600 ug was reported with more side effects. Misoprostol is a non-invasive, effective medical method for completion of abortion in missed abortion. Sublingual misoprostol of 600 ug or vaginal misoprostol of 800 ug may be a good choice for the first dose. The ideal dose and medication interval of misoprostol however needs to be further researched.
Severe bilateral ischemic-reperfusion renal injury: hyperacute and acute changes in apparent diffusion coefficient, T1, and T2 mapping with immunohistochemical correlations
Authors: Ko Sheung-Fat , Yip Hon-Kan , Zhen Yen-Yi , Lee Chia-Chang , Lee Chen-Chang , Huang Shyh-Jer , Huang Chung-Cheng , Ng Shu-Hang , Lin Jui-Wei
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the hyperacute and acute changes in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), T1, and T2 mapping in rat kidneys after severe bilateral renal ischemic-reperfusion injury (IRI). After baseline MRI, 24 Spraque-Dawley rats with renal IRI were divided equally as group 1 (post-IRI MRI at 6 hours, days 1, 3, and 7) and groups 2, 3, and 4 (post-IRI MRI at 6 hours; 6 hours and day 1; 6 hours, days 1 and 3, respectively), while six other rats without IRI (group 5) were used as sham control. ADC, T1, and T2 values of the cortex and outer and inner stripes of outer medulla (OSOM and ISOM), and immunohistochemical studies assessing monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), CD68+ cells, tubular cast formation, and collagen deposition in three zones at different time points were evaluated. Significantly reduced ADCs in OSOM and ISOM are noninvasive biomarkers denoting hyperacute damages after IRI. Linear regression analysis revealed a significant inverse correlation between 6-hour/baseline ADC ratios and MCP-1 staining (P < 0.001, r2 = 0.738). ADC, T1, and T2 values are useful for assessing variable IRI changes in different layers depending on underlying microstructural and histopathological changes at different time points.
Expressing acetylcholine receptors after innervation suppresses spontaneous vesicle release and causes muscle fatigue
Authors: Mott Meghan , Luna Victor M. , Park Jee-Young , Downes Gerald B. , Epley Kimberly , Ono Fumihito
Published: May 2017

The formation and function of synapses are tightly orchestrated by the precise timing of expression of specific molecules during development. In this study, we determined how manipulating the timing of expression of postsynaptic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) impacts presynaptic release by establishing a genetically engineered zebrafish line in which we can freely control the timing of AChR expression in an AChR-less fish background. With the delayed induction of AChR expression after an extensive period of AChR-less development, paralyzed fish displayed a remarkable level of recovery, exhibiting a robust escape response following developmental delay. Despite their apparent behavioral rescue, synapse formation in these fish was significantly altered as a result of delayed AChR expression. Motor neuron innervation determined the sites for AChR clustering, a complete reversal of normal neuromuscular junction (NMJ) development where AChR clustering precedes innervation. Most importantly, among the three modes of presynaptic vesicle release, only the spontaneous release machinery was strongly suppressed in these fish, while evoked vesicle release remained relatively unaffected. Such a specific presynaptic change, which may constitute a part of the compensatory mechanism in response to the absence of postsynaptic AChRs, may underlie symptoms of neuromuscular diseases characterized by reduced AChRs, such as myasthenia gravis.
Metasurface Freeform Nanophotonics
Authors: Zhan Alan , Colburn Shane , Dodson Christopher M. , Majumdar Arka
Published: May 2017

Freeform optics aims to expand the toolkit of optical elements by allowing for more complex phase geometries beyond rotational symmetry. Complex, asymmetric curvatures are employed to enhance the performance of optical components while minimizing their size. Unfortunately, these high curvatures and complex forms are often difficult to manufacture with current technologies, especially at the micron scale. Metasurfaces are planar sub-wavelength structures that can control the phase, amplitude, and polarization of incident light, and can thereby mimic complex geometric curvatures on a flat, wavelength-scale thick surface. We present a methodology for designing analogues of freeform optics using a silicon nitride based metasurface platform for operation at visible wavelengths. We demonstrate a cubic phase plate with a point spread function exhibiting enhanced depth of field over 300 micron along the optical axis with potential for performing metasurface-based white light imaging, and an Alvarez lens with a tunable focal length range of over 2.5 mm corresponding to a change in optical power of ~1600 diopters with 100 micron of total mechanical displacement. The adaptation of freeform optics to a sub-wavelength metasurface platform allows for further miniaturization of optical components and offers a scalable route toward implementing near-arbitrary geometric curvatures in nanophotonics.
Ethylenation of aldehydes to 3-propanal, propanol and propanoic acid derivatives
Authors: Payne Daniel T. , Zhao Yiming , Fossey John S.
Published: May 2017

Methodology has been developed for the synthesis of 3-propanaldehydes through a five-step process in 11–67% yield from aldehydes. Aldehydes were reacted with Meldrum’s acid through a Knoevenagel condensation to give materials that upon reduction with sodium borohydride and subsequent hydrolysis decarboxylation generated the corresponding 3-propanoic acid derivatives. The -propanoic acid derivatives were reduced to give 3-propanol derivatives, which were readily oxidised to target 3-propanal derivatives.
Thigmotaxis Mediates Trail Odour Disruption
Authors: Stringer Lloyd D. , Corn Joshua E. , Sik Roh Hyun , Jiménez-Pérez Alfredo , Manning Lee-Anne M. , Harper Aimee R. , Suckling David M.
Published: May 2017

Disruption of foraging using oversupply of ant trail pheromones is a novel pest management application under investigation. It presents an opportunity to investigate the interaction of sensory modalities by removal of one of the modes. Superficially similar to sex pheromone-based mating disruption in moths, ant trail pheromone disruption lacks an equivalent mechanistic understanding of how the ants respond to an oversupply of their trail pheromone. Since significant compromise of one sensory modality essential for trail following (chemotaxis) has been demonstrated, we hypothesised that other sensory modalities such as thigmotaxis could act to reduce the impact on olfactory disruption of foraging behaviour. To test this, we provided a physical stimulus of thread to aid trailing by Argentine ants otherwise under disruptive pheromone concentrations. Trail following success was higher using a physical cue. While trail integrity reduced under continuous over-supply of trail pheromone delivered directly on the thread, provision of a physical cue in the form of thread slightly improved trail following and mediated trail disruption from high concentrations upwind. Our results indicate that ants are able to use physical structures to reduce but not eliminate the effects of trail pheromone disruption.
Correction: Corrigendum: Revisiting metallization boundary of warm dense helium in a wide ρ-T regime from ab initio study
Authors: Zhang Wei , Li Zhiguo , Fu Zhijian , Dai Jiayu , Chen Qifeng , Cai Lingcang
Published: May 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 41885; published online: 03 February 2017; updated: 04 May 2017 In the original version of this Article, Lingcang Cai was incorrectly listed as being affiliated with ‘School of Science, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 610064, Sichuan, P. R.
RGC32 induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition by activating the Smad/Sip1 signaling pathway in CRC
Authors: Wang Xiao-Yan , Li Sheng-Nan , Zhu Hui-Fang , Hu Zhi-Yan , Zhong Yan , Gu Chuan-Sha , Chen Shi-You , Liu Teng-fei , Li Zu-Guo
Published: May 2017

Response gene to complement 32 (RGC32) is a transcription factor that regulates the expression of multiple genes involved in cell growth, viability and tissue-specific differentiation. However, the role of RGC32 in tumorigenesis and tumor progression in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been fully elucidated. Here, we showed that the expression of RGC32 was significantly up-regulated in human CRC tissues versus adjacent normal tissues. RGC32 expression was significantly correlated with invasive and aggressive characteristics of tumor cells, as well as poor survival of CRC patients. We also demonstrated that RGC32 overexpression promoted proliferation, migration and tumorigenic growth of human CRC cells in vitro and in vivo. Functionally, RGC32 facilitated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in CRC via the Smad/Sip1 signaling pathway, as shown by decreasing E-cadherin expression and increasing vimentin expression. In conclusion, our findings suggested that overexpression of RGC32 facilitates EMT of CRC cells by activating Smad/Sip1 signaling.
Correction: Corrigendum: Calmodulin is responsible for Ca2+-dependent regulation of TRPA1 Channels
Authors: Hasan Raquibul , Leeson-Payne Alasdair T. S. , Jaggar Jonathan H. , Zhang Xuming
Published: May 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 45098; published online: 23 March 2017; updated: 04 May 2017 The Acknowledgements section in this Article is incomplete. “RH was supported by a PhD studentship from the Islamic Development Bank and the Cambridge Commonwealth Trust. ATSLP was supported by a BBSRCEastBio Ph.
Erratum: Protein Sequence Comparison Based on Physicochemical Properties and the Position-Feature Energy Matrix
Authors: Yu Lulu , Zhang Yusen , Gutman Ivan , Shi Yongtang , Dehmer Matthias
Published: May 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 46237; published online: 10 April 2017; updated: 04 May 2017 In the original version of this Article, Yusen Zhang was incorrectly affiliated with ‘Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac, P. O. Box 60, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia’. The correct affiliation is listed below.
Design colloidal particle morphology and self-assembly for coating applications
Authors: Jiang Shan , Van Dyk Antony , Maurice Alvin , Bohling James , Fasano David , Brownell Stan
Published: May 2017

Recent progress in developing new generation coating materials through colloidal design and self-assembly is reviewed. Novel concepts originated from academia and technology commercialized in industry are both summarized.
Alkaline solubilization and ultrasound assisted extraction for Cr and Pb determination in leather by atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Van Beik Junior , Sena Kosera Vitor , de Andrade Maranhão Tatiane , Chaves Eduardo Sidinei
Published: May 2017

Alkaline solubilization and ultrasound-assisted extraction for determination of Cr and Pb in leather by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS).
Peptide and antibody ligands for renal targeting: nanomedicine strategies for kidney disease
Authors: Wang Jonathan , Masehi-Lano Jacqueline J. , Chung Eun Ji
Published: May 2017

This review presents key peptide and antibody based kidney-targeting ligands, with a focus on use in nanoparticle systems.
An ionic coordination hybrid hydrogel for bioseparation
Authors: Liu Zhen , Xia Zhijun , Fan Liuyin , Xiao Hua , Cao Chengxi
Published: May 2017

An ionic coordination hybrid hydrogel is formed with ionic and covalent crosslinked networks via one-step copolymation.
Efficient synthesis of cyclic P-stereogenic phosphinamides from acyclic chiral precursors via radical oxidative intramolecular aryl C–H phosphinamidation
Authors: Chen Yuan-Hui , Qin Xu-Long , Han Fu-She
Published: May 2017

A highly efficient method for the synthesis of cyclic P-stereogenic phosphinamides from acyclic chiral precursors via radical oxidative C–H phosphinamidation, followed by the versatile synthesis of various P-stereogenic compounds, is presented.
Ferromagnetic coupling in a chloride-bridged erbium single-molecule magnet
Authors: Hilgar J. D. , Flores B. S. , Rinehart J. D.
Published: May 2017

We present the first ferromagnetically-coupled Er3+ complex with linked, high-anisotropy Er–COT (COT2− = cyclooctatetraene dianion) subunits.
Probing the dynamics of N-methylacetamide in methanol via ab initio molecular dynamics
Authors: Yadav Vivek K. , Klein Michael L.
Published: May 2017

Two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) spectroscopy of amide 1 vibrational bands provides a valuable probe of proteins as well as molecules such as N-methylacetamide (NMA), which present peptide-like H-bonding possibilities to a solvent.
Stability, electronic structure, and optical properties of protected gold-doped silver Ag29−xAux (x = 0–5) nanoclusters
Authors: Juarez-Mosqueda Rosalba , Malola Sami , Häkkinen Hannu
Published: May 2017

The stability and optical properties of Au-doped [Ag29−xAux(BDT)12(TPP)4]3− nanoclusters are importantly determined by the formation of Au–TPP bonds.
Assembly and dichroism of a four-component halogen-bonded metal–organic cocrystal salt solvate involving dicyanoaurate(I) acceptors
Authors: Christopherson Jan-Constantin , Potts Karlie P. , Bushuyev Oleksandr S. , Topić Filip , Huskić Igor , Rissanen Kari , Barrett Christopher J. , Friščić Tomislav
Published: May 2017

We describe the use of dicyanoaurate ions as linear ditopic metal–organic acceptors for the halogen bond-driven assembly of a dichroic metal–organic cocrystal based on azobenzene chromophores. Structural analysis by single crystal X-ray diffraction revealed that the material is a four-component solid, consisting of anticipated anionic metal–organic halogen-bonded chains based on dicyanoaurate ions, as well as complex potassium-based cations and discrete molecules of the crown ether 15-crown-5. Importantly, the structural analysis revealed the parallel alignment of the halogen-bonded chains required for dichroic behaviour, confirming that crystal engineering principles developed for the design of halogen-bonded dichroic organic cocrystals are also applicable to metal-based structures. In the broader context of crystal engineering, the structure of the herein reported dichroic material is additionally interesting as the presence of an ion pair, a neutral azobenzene and a molecule of a room-temperature liquid make it an example of a solid that simultaneously conforms to definitions of a salt, a cocrystal, and a solvate.
Metal-free reduction of the greenhouse gas sulfur hexafluoride, formation of SF5containing ion pairs and the application in fluorinations
Authors: Rueping Magnus , Nikolaienko Pavlo , Lebedev Yury , Adams Alina
Published: May 2017

A protocol for the fast and selective two-electron reduction of the potent greenhouse gas sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) by organic electron donors at ambient temperature has been developed.
FeCl3 catalysed 7-membered ring formation in a single pot: a new route to indole-fused oxepines/azepines and their cytotoxic activity
Authors: Shiva Kumar K. , Siddi Ramulu Meesa , Rajesham Bandari , Kumar N. Praveen , Voora Vani , Kancha Rama Krishna
Published: May 2017

FeCl3 catalysed construction of 7 membered ring, oxepine and azepine derivatives by the reaction of 2,3-dichloro N-heterocycles with 2-(1H-indol-2-yl)phenol/aniline. Several of these compounds were found anti-proliferative properties against cancer cell lines.
Manganese-mediated/-catalyzed oxidative carboazidation of acrylamides
Authors: Zhao Danwei , Kang Kai , Wan Wen , Jiang Haizhen , Deng Hongmei , Chen Yunrong , Hao Jian
Published: May 2017

Manganese-mediated/-catalyzed oxidative carboazidation of acrylamides was developed for the synthesis of various azido oxindoles.
A high-safety PVDF/Al2O3composite separator for Li-ion batteries via tip-induced electrospinning and dip-coating
Authors: Wu Dezhi , Deng Lei , Sun Yu , Teh Kwok Siong , Shi Chuan , Tan Qiulin , Zhao Jinbao , Sun Daoheng , Lin Liwei
Published: May 2017

Composite membranes have been fabricated made of ultrafine PVDF fibersviaa tip-induced electrospinning (TIE) process and Al2O3nanoparticlesviaa dip-coating process.
Self-assembled diblock conjugated polyelectrolytes as electron transport layers for organic photovoltaics
Authors: Zhou Dan , Liu Jinliang , Chen Lie , Xu Haitao , Cheng Xiaofang , Wu Fangying , Chen Yiwang
Published: May 2017

The self-assembled diblock CPEs PFEO-b-PCNBr and PFEO-b-PTNBr can simultaneously tune the interfacial work function and the upper active layer morphology.
Graphene oxide–carbon nanotube hybrid assemblies: cooperatively strengthened OH⋯OC hydrogen bonds and the removal of chemisorbed water
Authors: Núñez J. D. , Benito A. M. , Rouzière S. , Launois P. , Arenal R. , Ajayan P. M. , Maser W. K.
Published: May 2017

The effective removal of chemisorbed water in graphene oxide by oxidized carbon nanotubes via cooperatively strengthened OH⋯OC hydrogen bonds.
Synthesis of Mn2+:Zn2SiO4–Eu3+:Gd2O3 nanocomposites for highly sensitive optical thermometry through the synergistic luminescence from lanthanide-transition metal ions
Authors: Huang Feng , Chen Daqin
Published: May 2017

Mn2+:Zn2SiO4–Eu3+:Gd2O3 nanocomposites were fabricated for highly sensitive thermometry.
Wideband balanced‐to‐unbalanced filtering unequal power divider with wide stopband and isolation
Authors: Zhuang Zheng , Wu Yongle , Jiao Lingxiao , Wang Weimin , Liu Yuanan
Published: May 2017

A novel wideband balanced‐to‐unbalanced filtering unequal power divider with wide stopband and isolation is proposed. The wideband filtering response with high frequency selectivity can be realised easily using the modified two‐port coupled lines with short‐ and open‐circuit stubs, thus generating two transmission zeros near the passband. The complete closed‐form equations are presented. A fabricated prototype with 1 : 2 power dividing ratio is simulated and measured to validate the proposed design.
Total Synthesis of (+)-Mintlactone and (–)-Isomintlactone via SmI2-Induced Radical Cyclization
Authors: He Dian , Wang Zhen , Wang Xiaodong , Wang Huihong , Wu Xia , Yu Tianqun , Gao Weiwei , Shi Tao , Peng Xue
Published: May 2017

A divergent strategy has been used to concisely and efficiently complete the synthesis of (+)-mintlactone and (–)-isomintlactone via SmI2-induced intramolecular radical cyclization, two rings and a stereocenter were constructed in one step. In the synthesis, the stereochemistry of the final natural product is set relative to the stereocenter of (–)-citronellol and favored coordination transition state of samarium atom with substrate.
Recent Progress in the Cross-Coupling Reaction Using Triorgano­silyl-Type Reagents
Authors: Minami Yasunori , Hiyama Tamejiro , Komiyama Takeshi
Published: May 2017

The silicon-based cross-coupling reaction has attracted much attention over recent decades because there are many advantages in using organosilicon compounds. However, the use of reagents with a triorganosilyl group as a key function remains to be established. This account summarizes our recent progress in cross-coupling chemistry with such silyl reagents.

1 Introduction

2 Preparation of HOMSi Reagents from Aryl Bromides and Disilanes

3 HOMSi Reagents from Heteroaromatics and Hydrosilanes

4 Cross-Coupling Polymerization with HOMSi Reagents

5 Cross-Coupling with Aryl(triethyl)silanes

6 Amination of Aryl Halides with N-TMS-Amines

7 Conclusion and Perspective
Poly(phosphoric acid) (PPA)-Promoted 5-exo-Cyclization of Iminium Ions Generated In Situ: A Facile Access to Functionalized Indene Derivatives
Authors: Zhu Yi-Fan , Geng Xin-Le , Guan Yong-Hong , Teng Wei , Fan Xiaohui
Published: May 2017

A metal-free Brønsted acid promoted two-component reaction between cinnamaldehydes and sulfonamides is described. This cascade process provides a simple and atom-economical alternative synthesis of a range of functionalized indenes from easily available starting materials. The resulting N-indenylsulfonamides were readily converted into the corresponding indenylenamines or indanones.
Cross-Metathesis/Intramolecular (Hetero-)Michael Addition: A Convenient Sequence for the Generation of Carbo- and Heterocycles
Authors: Sánchez-Roselló María , del Pozo Carlos , Miró Javier
Published: May 2017

The high stability and functional group compatibility of ruthenium carbene complexes confer them a great ability to catalyze domino processes. For this reason, the combination of metathesis reactions with additional transformations in a domino fashion has been exploited extensively, with the result of expanding the utility of ruthenium carbene complexes beyond that of just olefin metathesis. Among those domino processes, it is worth mentioning the sequence of cross-metathesis/intramolecular Michael addition, which allows for the generation of a wide variety of carbo- and heterocycles in a very simple manner, taking advantage of the benefits of domino reactions. Carbon-, oxygen- and nitrogen-centered nucleophiles are good partners in this protocol, the versatility of which has been illustrated with the synthesis of several biologically important compounds.

1 Introduction

2 Cross Metathesis/Intramolecular Aza-Michael Addition Sequences

3 Cross Metathesis/Intramolecular Oxa-Michael Addition Sequences

4 Cross Metathesis/Intramolecular Michael Addition Sequences

5 Conclusions and Outlook
Definitive Contraception: Trends in a Ten-year Interval
Authors: Marques Cecília Maria Ventuzelo , Magalhães Magda Maria do Vale Pinto , Carvalho Maria João Leal da Silva , Carvalho Giselda Marisa Costa , Fonseca Francisco Augusto Falcão Santos , Torgal Isabel
Published: May 2017

Objective To evaluate the trends in definitive contraception in a ten-year interval comprising the years 2002 and 2012.

Method Retrospective analysis of the tubal sterilization performed in our service in 2002 and 2012, analyzing the demographic characteristics, personal history, previous contraceptive method, definite contraception technique, effectiveness and complications.

Results Definitive contraception was performed in 112 women in 2002 (group 1) and in 60 women in 2012 (group 2). The groups were homogeneous regarding age, parity, educational level and personal history. The number of women older than 40 years choosing a definitive method was more frequent in group 1, 49.1% (n = 55); for group 2, the rate was 34.8% (n = 23) (p = 0.04). The time between the last delivery and the procedure was 11.6 ± 6.2 and 7.9 ± 6.4 years (p = 0.014) in 2002 against 2012 respectively. In 2002, all patients performed tubal ligation by laparoscopic inpatient regime. In 2012, the bilateral placement of the Essure (Bayer Corporation, Whippany, NJ, US) device was suggested to 56.1% (n = 37) of the patients, while laparoscopy was suggested to 43.9% (n = 29) of them. All women who underwent laparoscopic sterilization had the procedure successfully completed using silastic rings. The overall bilateral device placement rate for the Essure was 91.6%, with only one complication reported. All Essure procedures were performed in an outpatient setting; for the laparoscopy, this rate was 79% (n = 15). No intentional pregnancies occurred until this date.

Conclusions There is a trend in the decrease in definitive contraception over the years in our institution, maybe as a result of the development of long-acting reversible contraceptives. The hysteroscopic procedure has become a frequent option, as it is performed in an office setting without anesthesia, being a well-tolerated, minimal invasive method.
Epigenetic Understanding of Gene-Environment Interaction in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kubota Takeo
Published: May 2017

The number of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased in many countries over the past 10 years. Genetic studies have revealed that ASD is caused by mutations in the genes coding proteins related to neuronal function. However, such genetic abnormalities cannot underlie the increase in this disorder since mutations do not accumulate among children in the short-term. Epigenetics is a mechanism that is involved in gene regulation not by changing DNA sequence (mutations) but by changing the chemical modifications of DNA and histone proteins. Current studies suggest that mental stress and other forms of environmental stress in early life alter the epigenetic status of genes and change the neuronal gene function, resulting in persistent behavioral abnormalities. Therefore, it can be speculated that the current increase in the prevalence of ASD is partially caused by epigenetic changes in the brains of children induced by some recent socio-environmental conditions. However, epigenetic changes are reversible. Indeed, it has been demonstrated that some drugs for mental disorders reverse the altered epigenetic state and recover the expression of neuronal genes. It has also been demonstrated that offering an appropriate nurturing environment in early life reverses the altered epigenetic state and recovers the neurological gene function in mouse models of ASD. Therefore, from the epigenetic point of view, early medical and educational interventions may be important for children with ASD.
Prevalence of Cardiac Arrhythmias in Hypothyroid and Euthyroid Patients
Authors: Kannan Lakshmi , Kotus-Bart Justyna , Amanullah Aman
Published: May 2017

The thyroid functions as a regulator of cardiac function and rhythm through genomic and nongenomic actions of triiodothyronine (T3) in cardiac myocytes. Atrial fibrillation is a common complication of thyrotoxicosis. Hypothyroidism is not considered a risk factor for arrhythmias despite well-known EKG changes in this condition. This case control study was conducted to analyze the differences, if any, in the prevalence of cardiac arrhythmias between hypothyroid patients and euthyroid controls. Three hundred and four consecutive patients admitted at our medical center for a period of one year were included in the study. The study population was divided into 2 groups (age, gender and race matched): patients with hypothyroidism and euthyroid subjects as a control group. Major arrhythmia data were obtained from telemetry recordings and from known past medical history. There were 152 subjects in each arm of the study. The mean age was 61.9 years. Mean TSH in hypothyroid group was 40.4 mIU/l (95% CI 33.3–47.5) (range 10.09–304, SE 3.62) and in euthyroid group was 0.89 mIU/l (95% CI 0.82–0.96). Chi-square analysis revealed a higher prevalence of ventricular tachycardia (p=0.04) and any ventricular arrhythmia in the hypothyroid group (p=0.007). This relatively large case control study revealed a statistically higher prevalence of ventricular arrhythmias in hypothyroidism. Our study has thrown light on the prevalence of arrhythmias in hypothyroidism and the observation of increased ventricular arrhythmias necessitates future large scale prospective studies to better define the risk of such ventricular arrhythmias and the effects of thyroid supplementation on this risk.
A physics-based solver to optimize the illumination of cylindrical targets in spherically distributed high power laser systems
Authors: Gourdain P.-A.
Published: May 2017

In recent years, our understanding of high energy density plasmas has played an important role in improving inertial fusion confinement and in emerging new fields of physics, such as laboratory astrophysics. Every new idea required developing innovative experimental platforms at high power laser facilities, such as OMEGA or NIF. These facilities, designed to focus all their beams onto spherical targets or hohlraum windows, are now required to shine them on more complex targets. While the pointing on planar geometries is relatively straightforward, it becomes problematic for cylindrical targets or target with more complex geometries. This publication describes how the distribution of laser beams on a cylindrical target can be done simply by using a set of physical laws as a pointing procedure. The advantage of the method is threefold. First, it is straightforward, requiring no mathematical enterprise besides solving ordinary differential equations. Second, it will converge if a local optimum exists. Finally, it is computationally inexpensive. Experimental results show that this approach produces a geometrical beam distribution that yields cylindrically symmetric implosions.
Back gated FETs fabricated by large-area, transfer-free growth of a few layer MoS2 with high electron mobility
Authors: Jahangir Ifat , Koley Goutam , Chandrashekhar M. V. S.
Published: May 2017

We demonstrate a transfer-free method for producing 3–5 monolayers, large area MoS2 by pre-oxidation of metallic Mo. The growth temperature was reduced, eliminating free sulfur-induced degradation of the SiO2 gate dielectric in strong accumulation, which suppressed the leakage current at VGS=−3 V by a factor of ≥108, when compared to a single step direct sulfidation method. Back-gated field effect transistors with an accumulation electron mobility of  >80 cm2/Vs, an on/off ratio of  >105, and a subthreshold swing of 84 mV/dec from this MoS2 represent the state-of-the-art on SiO2. In accumulation, current saturation was attributed to charge control rather than velocity saturation. The hysteresis-free transistor characteristics were stable up to a temperature of 500 K.
Influence of long-range Coulomb interaction in velocity map imaging
Authors: Barillot T. , Brédy R. , Celep G. , Cohen S. , Compagnon I. , Concina B. , Constant E. , Danakas S. , Kalaitzis P. , Karras G. , Lépine F. , Loriot V. , Marciniak A. , Predelus-Renois G. , Schindler B. , Bordas C.
Published: May 2017

The standard velocity-map imaging (VMI) analysis relies on the simple approximation that the residual Coulomb field experienced by the photoelectron ejected from a neutral or ion system may be neglected. Under this almost universal approximation, the photoelectrons follow ballistic (parabolic) trajectories in the externally applied electric field, and the recorded image may be considered as a 2D projection of the initial photoelectron velocity distribution. There are, however, several circumstances where this approximation is not justified and the influence of long-range forces must absolutely be taken into account for the interpretation and analysis of the recorded images. The aim of this paper is to illustrate this influence by discussing two different situations involving isolated atoms or molecules where the analysis of experimental images cannot be performed without considering long-range Coulomb interactions. The first situation occurs when slow (meV) photoelectrons are photoionized from a neutral system and strongly interact with the attractive Coulomb potential of the residual ion. The result of this interaction is the formation of a more complex structure in the image, as well as the appearance of an intense glory at the center of the image. The second situation, observed also at low energy, occurs in the photodetachment from a multiply charged anion and it is characterized by the presence of a long-range repulsive potential. Then, while the standard VMI approximation is still valid, the very specific features exhibited by the recorded images can be explained only by taking into consideration tunnel detachment through the repulsive Coulomb barrier.
Temporal evolution of two-dimensional electron temperature and ion flux on a substrate in a pulsed-power inductively coupled plasma
Authors: Park Il-seo , Kim Dong-Hwan , Kim Kyung-Hyun , Chung Chin-Wook
Published: May 2017

The two-dimensional temporal behavior of plasma was investigated at the wafer-level when applied power was turned on/off, which is one cycle of the pulsed plasma. For the measurement of transient plasma, the floating harmonic method and a post-processing method were used to obtain the ion flux and the electron temperature with a 1 ms time resolution. The results show that the transient behaviors of plasma such as antenna power absorption are observed in pulsed inductively coupled plasma. Antenna-shaped ion flux is observed when the power is turned on, and the radial profiles of the ion flux are followed by a diffusion solution when the power is turned off. Furthermore, the electron temperature shows pulsed plasma characteristics.
The use of charge extraction by linearly increasing voltage in polar organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Züfle Simon , Altazin Stéphane , Hofmann Alexander , Jäger Lars , Neukom Martin T. , Schmidt Tobias D. , Brütting Wolfgang , Ruhstaller Beat
Published: May 2017

We demonstrate the application of the CELIV (charge carrier extraction by linearly increasing voltage) technique to bilayer organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) in order to selectively determine the hole mobility in N,N0-bis(1-naphthyl)-N,N0-diphenyl-1,10-biphenyl-4,40-diamine (α-NPD). In the CELIV technique, mobile charges in the active layer are extracted by applying a negative voltage ramp, leading to a peak superimposed to the measured displacement current whose temporal position is related to the charge carrier mobility. In fully operating devices, however, bipolar carrier transport and recombination complicate the analysis of CELIV transients as well as the assignment of the extracted mobility value to one charge carrier species. This has motivated a new approach of fabricating dedicated metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) devices, where the extraction current contains signatures of only one charge carrier type. In this work, we show that the MIS-CELIV concept can be employed in bilayer polar OLEDs as well, which are easy to fabricate using most common electron transport layers (ETLs), like Tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (Alq3). Due to the macroscopic polarization of the ETL, holes are already injected into the hole transport layer below the built-in voltage and accumulate at the internal interface with the ETL. This way, by a standard CELIV experiment only holes will be extracted, allowing us to determine their mobility. The approach can be established as a powerful way of selectively measuring charge mobilities in new materials in a standard device configuration.
A process to fabricate fused silica nanofluidic devices with embedded electrodes using an optimized room temperature bonding technique
Authors: Boden Seth , Karam P. , Schmidt A. , Pennathur S.
Published: May 2017

Fused silica is an ideal material for nanofluidic systems due to its extreme purity, chemical inertness, optical transparency, and native hydrophilicity. However, devices requiring embedded electrodes (e.g., for bioanalytical applications) are difficult to realize given the typical high temperature fusion bonding requirements (∼1000 °C). In this work, we optimize a two-step plasma activation process which involves an oxygen plasma treatment followed by a nitrogen plasma treatment to increase the fusion bonding strength of fused silica at room temperature. We conduct a parametric study of this treatment to investigate its effect on bonding strength, surface roughness, and microstructure morphology. We find that by including a nitrogen plasma treatment to the standard oxygen plasma activation process, the room temperature bonding strength increases by 70% (0.342 J∕m2 to 0.578 J∕m2). Employing this optimized process, we fabricate and characterize a nanofluidic device with an integrated and dielectrically separated electrode. Our results prove that the channels do not leak with over 1 MPa of applied pressure after a 24 h storage time, and the electrode exhibits capacitive behavior with a finite parallel resistance in the upper MΩ range for up to a 6.3Vdc bias. These data thus allow us to overcome the barrier that has barred nanofluidic progress for the last decade, namely, the development of nanometer scale well-defined channels with embedded metallic materials for far-reaching applications such as the exquisite manipulation of biomolecules.
Stable microfluidic flow focusing using hydrostatics
Authors: Gnyawali Vaskar , Saremi Mohammadali , Kolios Michael C. , Tsai Scott S. H.
Published: May 2017

We present a simple technique to generate stable hydrodynamically focused flows by driving the flow with hydrostatic pressure from liquid columns connected to the inlets of a microfluidic device. Importantly, we compare the focused flows generated by hydrostatic pressure and classical syringe pump driven flows and find that the stability of the hydrostatic pressure driven technique is significantly better than the stability achieved via syringe pumps, providing fluctuation-free focused flows that are suitable for sensitive microfluidic flow cytometry applications. We show that the degree of flow focusing with the hydrostatic method can be accurately controlled by the simple tuning of the liquid column heights. We anticipate that this approach to stable flow focusing will find many applications in microfluidic cytometry technologies.
Reduction of polymer residue on wet–transferred CVD graphene surface by deep UV exposure
Authors: Suhail A. , Islam K. , Li B. , Jenkins D. , Pan G.
Published: May 2017

Polymer residue from Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) on transferred graphene is a common issue for graphene devices. This residue affects the properties of graphene. Herein, we have introduced an improved technique to reduce the effect of this residue by deep UV (DUV) exposure of PMMA coated graphene samples within the wet transfer process. This technique has systematically been evaluated by optical microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electrical measurements. The results show that this residue is effectively reduced on the graphene surface after DUV treatment. In addition, the electrical characteristics of transferred graphene confirm that the sheet resistance and contact resistance are reduced by about 60 and 80%, respectively, after the DUV exposure. Electrical current transport characteristics also show that minimizing this residue on the graphene surface gives less hysteresis of electronic transport in back-gate graphene field-effect transistors. Furthermore, repeating electrical tests and aging shift the neutral point voltage of graphene. We attribute these improvements to cleaving of the chemical bonds in PMMA by DUV exposure and hence increasing the solubility of PMMA in acetone for subsequent processing steps. This work provides a unique route to enhance the electrical properties of transferred graphene after the fabrication process.
Comparing Efficiency of American Fisheries Society Standard Snorkeling Techniques to Environmental DNA Sampling Techniques
Authors: Ulibarri Roy M. , Bonar Scott A. , Rees Chris , Amberg Jon , Ladell Bridget , Jackson Craig
Published: May 2017

Analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) is an emerging technique used to detect aquatic species through water sampling and the extraction of biological material for amplification. Our study compared the efficacy of eDNA methodology to American Fisheries Society (AFS) standard snorkeling surveys with regard to detecting the presence of rare fish species. Knowing which method is more efficient at detecting target species will help managers to determine the best way to sample when both traditional sampling methods and eDNA sampling are available. Our study site included three Navajo Nation streams that contained Navajo Nation Genetic Subunit Bluehead Suckers Catostomus discobolus and Zuni Bluehead Suckers C. discobolus yarrowi. We first divided the entire wetted area of streams into consecutive 100-m reaches and then systematically selected 10 reaches/stream for snorkel and eDNA surveys. Surface water samples were taken in 10-m sections within each 100-m reach, while fish presence was noted via snorkeling in each 10-m section. Quantitative PCR was run on each individual water sample in quadruplicate to test for the presence or absence of the target species. With eDNA sampling techniques, we were able to positively detect both species in two out of the three streams. Snorkeling resulted in positive detection of both species in all three streams. In streams where the target species were detected with eDNA sampling, snorkeling detected fish at 11–29 sites/stream, whereas eDNA detected fish at 3–12 sites/stream. Our results suggest that AFS standard snorkeling is more effective than eDNA for detecting target fish species. To improve our eDNA procedures, the amount of water collected and tested should be increased. Additionally, filtering water on-site may improve eDNA techniques for detecting fish. Future research should focus on standardization of eDNA sampling to provide a widely operational sampling tool.

Received July 27, 2016; accepted March 8, 2017 Published online May 4, 2017
Venting and Descending Provide Equivocal Benefits for Catch-and-Release Survival: Study Design Influences Effectiveness More than Barotrauma Relief Method
Authors: Eberts Rebecca L. , Somers Christopher M.
Published: May 2017

Descending fish to depths of neutral buoyancy is a promising, less-invasive alternative to swim bladder venting for relieving barotrauma and reducing mortality in sport fish. However, we lack a broad perspective on the relative benefits of these two approaches. We reviewed the most up-to-date literature to evaluate the effectiveness of venting compared to descending treatments. Mean relative risk (RR) based on 76 published comparisons (51 marine, 25 freshwater; 18 genera, 28 species) showed that venting (2.0 ± 4.7 [mean ± SD]) and descending (1.6 ± 1.4) both had positive effects on survival (RR ≥ 1.1). However, RR was generally small and statistically indistinguishable between treatments, providing no strong support for the use of one method over the other. Modeling of factors affecting RR showed that the study design variable “assessment method” was the only important factor affecting RR, having a larger influence on survival than habitat, capture depth, or treatment type (venting versus descending). Biotelemetry and ex situ methods produced significantly higher estimates of RR than other assessments. Our review suggests that the two major approaches to barotrauma relief do not differentially influence survival outcomes and that study design may be an important source of bias. Consequently, we recommend that managers consider barotrauma relief options carefully on a case-by-case basis, and we encourage additional research on sublethal endpoints in addition to mortality.

Received November 29, 2016; accepted March 9, 2017 Published online May 4, 2017
In situ postweld heat treatment of transformation induced plasticity steel resistance spot welds
Authors: Sajjadi-Nikoo S. , Pouranvari M. , Abedi A. , Ghaderi A. A.
Published: May 2017

Transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) steel resistance spot welds are delicate to low-energy interfacial failure via crack propagation through martensitic fusion zone during cross-tension (CT) loading. This paper addresses the effect of three different types of in situ postweld heat treatment (PWHT) on the mechanical properties of TRIP steel resistance spot welds. Depending on the post weld second pulse current level, three different strengthening mechanisms were found including (i) martensite tempering with reduced hardness, (ii) refining of martensite packets with improved toughness and (iii) nugget re-melting/enlargement combined with possible reduction of grain boundary impurity segregation. All designed in situ PWHTs were enabled to promote pullout failure mode with improved load-bearing capacity and energy absorption capability during CT loading.