bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the seismic response of high‐rise buildings supported on tension‐resistant elastomeric isolation bearings
Authors: Lu Xilin , Wang Dong , Wang Shanshan
Published: May 2016

In many applications of seismic isolation, such as in high‐rise construction, lightweight construction, and structures with large height‐to‐width aspect ratios, significant tension forces can develop in bearings, raising concerns about the possible rupture of elastomeric bearings and the uplift of sliding bearings. In this paper, a novel tension‐resistant lead plug rubber bearing (TLRB) with improved tension‐resisting capabilities is developed and experimentally and numerically assessed. This TLRB consists of a common lead plug rubber bearing (LRB) and several helical springs. After describing the theory underlying the behavior of the TLRB, the mechanical properties of reduced‐scale prototype bearings are investigated through extensive horizontal and vertical loading tests. The test results indicate that TLRBs can improve the shear stiffness and tension resistance capacity even under significant tensile loads. A series of shaking table tests on scaled models of high‐rise buildings with different aspect ratios were conducted to investigate the dynamic performance of the TLRB and the seismic responses of base‐isolated high‐rise buildings. Three different cases were considered in the shaking table tests: a fixed base condition and the use of TLRB and LRB isolation systems. The results of the shaking table test show that (a) base‐isolated systems are effective in reducing the structural responses of high‐rise buildings; (b) an isolated structure's aspect ratio is an important factor influencing its dynamic response; (c) TLRBs can endure large tensile stresses and avoid rupture on rubber bearings under strong earthquakes; and (d) the experimental and numerical results of the responses of the models show good agreement. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient approximation of Sparse Jacobians for time‐implicit reduced order models
Authors: Ştefănescu Răzvan , Sandu Adrian
Published: May 2016

This paper introduces a sparse matrix discrete interpolation method to effectively compute matrix approximations in the reduced order modeling framework. The sparse algorithm developed herein relies on the discrete empirical interpolation method and uses only samples of the nonzero entries of the matrix series. The proposed approach can approximate very large matrices, unlike the current matrix discrete empirical interpolation method, which is limited by its large computational memory requirements. The empirical interpolation indices obtained by the sparse algorithm slightly differ from the ones computed by the matrix discrete empirical interpolation method as a consequence of the singular vectors round‐off errors introduced by the economy or full singular value decomposition (SVD) algorithms when applied to the full matrix snapshots. When appropriately padded with zeros, the economy SVD factorization of the nonzero elements of the snapshots matrix is a valid economy SVD for the full snapshots matrix. Numerical experiments are performed with the 1D Burgers and 2D shallow water equations test problems where the quadratic reduced nonlinearities are computed via tensorial calculus. The sparse matrix approximation strategy is compared against five existing methods for computing reduced Jacobians: (i) matrix discrete empirical interpolation method, (ii) discrete empirical interpolation method, (iii) tensorial calculus, (iv) full Jacobian projection onto the reduced basis subspace, and (v) directional derivatives of the model along the reduced basis functions. The sparse matrix method outperforms all other algorithms. The use of traditional matrix discrete empirical interpolation method is not possible for very large dimensions because of its excessive memory requirements. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is the naturalistic course of depression in older people related to received support over time? Results from a longitudinal population‐based study
Authors: Houtjes Wim , Deeg Dorly , van de Ven Peter M. , van Meijel Berno , van Tilburg Theo , Beekman Aartjan
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To test the interrelation of the naturalistic course of depression in older people with long‐term support received.

Design

Longitudinal cohort study.

Methods

A sample of 277 adults age 55–85 years participating in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, with clinically relevant depressive symptoms at baseline (scores ≥16 on the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale) were followed up over a period of 13 years. General estimating equations were used to examine the relation between depression course and emotional/instrumental support received over time. In addition, partner status, gender, and age were tested as modifiers.

Results

A 2‐way interaction between depression courses types and time showed significant differences in instrumental support received over time in older people with a late‐life depression. Three‐way interactions showed that associations between depression course and support variables were modified by gender and partner status.

Conclusion

Both men and singles, with a chronic course of depression may be at risk to lose emotional and instrumental support over time. Professional attention is needed to prevent a chronic course of late‐life depression, and to preserve personal social networks. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epithelial‐to‐Mesenchymal Transition in Paclitaxel‐Resistant Ovarian Cancer Cells Is Downregulated by Luteolin
Authors: Dia Vermont P , Pangloli Philipus
Published: May 2016

Ovarian cancer (OVCA) is the deadliest of all gynecological cancers which is attributed to late presentation, persistence, and development of chemoresistance. The objectives were to evaluate the association between OVCA paclitaxel‐resistance and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and to determine the capability of luteolin to chemosensitize OVCA cells. X10 and X22 cells were 11.8–25.3‐fold and 7.8–8.6‐fold resistant to paclitaxel than 1AP cells. X10 and X22 cells exhibited a mesenchymal phenotype, while 1AP has an epithelial characteristics. Furthermore, the expression of the epithelial marker E‐cadherin was downregulated, while mesenchymal markers Vimentin and N‐cadherin were upregulated in X10 and X22 cells when compared to 1AP cells. Transcription factors Snail, Slug, and Twist1 were upregulated in X10 cells, while Twist1 was highly expressed in X22 cells. Luteolin treatment caused cytotoxicity being most potent to X10 OVCA cells. Treatment of non‐cytotoxic dose of luteolin at 15.625 μM chemosensitized X10 and X22 OVCA cells to paclitaxel as evidenced by reduced ED50 values from 11.8 to 0.2 μM and 8.6 to 3.6 μM for X10 and X22 cells, respectively. Moreover, luteolin treatment led to a more epithelial phenotype of X10 and X22 cells and modification of EMT markers indicating reversal of EMT. The mechanism involved is through reduction of phosphorylation of FAK and ERK leading to reduced nuclear translocation of p65. Our results highlight the significance of EMT in OVCA resistance to paclitaxel and warrant the investigation of luteolin as a potential therapeutic agent in chemoresistant OVCA. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 391–401, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Antenatal diagnosis of idiopathic dilatation of pulmonary artery with 3D power doppler imaging
Authors: Yang Pei‐Yin , Sajapala Suraphan , Yamamoto Kenta , Mori Nobuhiro , Kanenishi Kenji , Koyano Kosuke , Kusaka Takashi , Hata Toshiyuki
Published: May 2016

We present a case of antenatal diagnosis of idiopathic dilatation of the pulmonary artery by three‐dimensional power Doppler imaging (HDliveFlow with silhouette mode). Two‐dimensional sonography clearly demonstrated a 10.4‐mm‐diameter fetal pulmonary artery (PA), whereas the aorta (Ao) diameter was 5.04 mm. HDliveFlow clearly demonstrated the spatial relationships and different sizes of PA and Ao. The PA size returned to normal (8.0 mm) on the 11th day after birth (Ao: 9.0 mm). HDliveFlow may be an adjunctive tool to two‐dimensional sonography to diagnose abnormalities of fetal great vessels. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:121–123, 2017;
Cuticle‐degrading proteases and toxins as virulence markers of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin
Authors: Cito Annarita , Barzanti Gian Paolo , Strangi Agostino , Francardi Valeria , Zanfini Assunta , Dreassi Elena
Published: May 2016

Beauveria bassiana is one of the most known entomopathogenic fungal species and its entomopathogenic mechanism involves several bioactive metabolites, mainly cuticle‐degrading enzymes and toxic molecules, which are predicted to play a key role as virulence factors. In this study six Beauveria bassiana strains (B 13/I03, B 13/I11, B 13/I49, B 13/I57, B 13/I63, and B 13/I64) were assayed against Tenebrio molitor larvae. Enzymatic activity of total proteases and specifically Pr 1 and Pr 2, as well as the production of toxic compounds were investigated in each fungal strain. Toxins were detected both in vitro—in medium filtrates and mycelia—and in vivo—in Tenebrio molitor larvae infected by the fungal strains tested. B 13/I11 and B 13/I63 strains showed the most significant entomopathogenic activity against Tenebrio molitor larvae (cumulative mortality rate 100 and 97%, respectively; average survival time 5.85 and 6.74 days, respectively). A widely variable and fungal strain‐dependent enzymatic activity of total proteases, Pr 1 and Pr 2 was found. Beauvericin, beauvericin A and bassianolide resulted the most prevalent toxins detected in the substrates analyzed. It has been found that an increase of beauvericin content in vivo resulted significantly correlated to a decrease of Tenebrio molitor larvae average survival time in entomopathogenic bioassay (inverse correlation). The involvement of beauvericin in B. bassiana entomopathogenic process is confirmed; in vitro analysis of cuticle degrading proteases activity and toxins production in relation to the methods adopted resulted insufficient for a rapid screening to determine the virulence of B. bassiana strains against Tenebrio molitor larvae.
Visualising the relationships between synoptic circulation type and air quality in Sydney, a subtropical coastal‐basin environment
Authors: Jiang Ningbo , Scorgie Yvonne , Hart Melissa , Riley Matthew L. , Crawford Jagoda , Beggs Paul J. , Edwards Grant C. , Chang Lisa , Salter David , Virgilio Giovanni Di
Published: May 2016

Ozone and particle pollution are of concern for the Sydney basin, in particular during warm months (November to March) when pollution levels can exceed national standards. Previous studies on the relationship between synoptic circulation and air quality focused on high pollution days or aggregated air quality conditions over the region as a whole. This study provides both temporal and spatial analyses of the synoptic processes affecting warm‐month ozone and particle pollution in Sydney. A warm‐month synoptic catalogue was developed by applying the self‐organising map method to the NCEP/NCAR geopotential height reanalysis for south‐east Australia. The catalogue was linked to mesoscale meteorological features such as drainage flows and sea breezes, and subsequently to the spatial variability in air quality across the Sydney basin. The typical synoptic types commonly associated with high or low ozone and PM10 levels, as well as variations in visibility, were identified. The results suggest that, due to Sydney's subtropical coastal‐basin environment, the interaction between meso‐ and synoptic‐scale features determine local air quality conditions in the region, rather than the synoptic conditions alone. Emissions from bushfires appear to have considerable impacts on the synoptic modulation to visibility and PM10 levels, with such impacts tending to be more at a local scale. In contrast, no comparable impacts were found for ozone pollution. For ozone and visibility, the probability for an exceedance day under some synoptic types varied considerably over time, implying that there might have been a shift in the role of synoptic modulation to local air quality associated with changes in air emissions profiles. This study provides a leap in our understanding of the relationship between synoptic circulation and air quality in a coastal‐basin environment. The results are useful for improving air quality forecasting in Sydney, with the methodology developed readily applicable to similar regions elsewhere.
Extraction, composition, and functional properties of dried alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) leaf protein
Authors: Hojilla‐Evangelista Mila P , Selling Gordon W , Hatfield Ronald , Digman Matthew
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Alfalfa is considered a potential feedstock for biofuels; co‐products with value‐added uses would enhance process viability. This work evaluated dried alfalfa leaves for protein production and describes the functional properties of the protein.

RESULTS

Dried alfalfa leaves contained 260 g kg−1 dry basis (DB) crude protein, with albumins being the major fraction (260 g kg−1 of total protein). Alkali solubilization for 2 h at 50 °C, acid precipitation, dialysis, and freeze‐drying produced a protein concentrate (600 g kg−1 DB crude protein). Alfalfa leaf protein concentrate showed moderate solubility (maximum 500 g kg−1 soluble protein from pH 5.5 to 10), excellent emulsifying properties (activity 158–219 m2 g−1 protein, stability 17–49 min) and minimal loss of solubility during heating at pH ≥ 7.0.

CONCLUSIONS

It is technically feasible to extract protein with desirable emulsifying and heat stability properties from dried alfalfa leaves; however, the dried form may not be a practical starting material for protein production, given the difficulty of achieving high yields and high‐purity protein product. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Environmentally friendly anodising process for structural bonding of titanium
Authors: Rico‐Oller B. , Mertens T. , Kolb M. , Wehr J. , Zheludkevich M.
Published: May 2016

This paper evaluates the applicability of two wet‐chemical treatments for structural bonding of titanium alloy Ti6Al4V. The anodising processes, NaTESi and N4‐Process, are based on electrolytes containing sodium hydroxide and complexing agents, but while NaTESi process contains ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, a particularly hazardous chemical, N4‐Process is a REACh compliant electrolyte. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were employed to evaluate the oxide layer formed after the anodising processes. The long‐term durability and the resultant adhesion properties on titanium were assessed by means of floating‐roller‐peel test. Both investigated anodising processes lead to oxide layers revealing a highly porous nanostructure (thickness between 150–600 nm) according to scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analyses. The mechanical tests lead to negligible differences between processes, performing higher peel resistance when compared to only alkaline etched samples, especially after 1000 hours ageing at 50 °C and 95 % relative humidity. The results indicate that N4‐Process is a promising treatment to enhance the long‐term durability of bonded titanium joints, especially under hot and wet conditions.
Medicinal Cannabis for Parkinson's Disease: Practices, Beliefs, and Attitudes Among Providers at National Parkinson Foundation Centers of Excellence
Authors: Bega Danny , Simuni Tanya , Okun Michael S. , Chen Xinguang , Schmidt Peter
Published: May 2016

Background

Legalization of the medical use of cannabis for Parkinson's disease (PD) has bypassed the traditional drug‐approval process, leaving physicians with little evidence with which to guide patients.

Objective

The goal of this study was to gather data on the cannabis‐related prescribing practices and views regarding potential risks and benefits of cannabis among experts caring for patients with PD.

Methods

An anonymous, 73‐item online survey was conducted through an online service (SurveyMonkey) and included neurologists at all National Parkinson Foundation Centers of Excellence.

Results

Fifty‐six responders represented centers across 5 countries and 14 states. 23% reported some formal education on cannabis. Eighty percent of responders had patients with PD who used cannabis, and 95% were asked to prescribe it. Fifty‐two percent took a neutral position on cannabis use with their patients, 9% discouraged use, and 39% encouraged it. Most believed that the literature supported use of cannabis for nausea (87%; n = 48), anxiety (60%; n = 33), and pain (86%; n = 47), but responses were divided with regard to motor symptoms. Most respondents expected that cannabis would worsen motivation (59%; n = 32), sleepiness (60%; n = 31), and hallucinations (69%; n = 37). In addition, most feared negative effects on short‐term memory (75%; n = 42), long‐term memory (55%; n = 31), executive functioning (79%; n = 44), and driving (96%; n = 54). Although many did not believe that cannabis should be recreational (50%; n = 28), most believed that it should be legalized for medicinal purposes (69.6%; n = 39).

Conclusions

This study provides data on the cannabis‐related practices, beliefs, and attitudes of expert PD physicians. There is a lack of consensus that likely reflects a general knowledge gap and paucity of data to guide clinical practice.
The fundamentals behind solving for unknown molecular structures using computer‐assisted structure elucidation: a free software package at the undergraduate and graduate levels
Authors: Moser Arvin , Pautler Brent G.
Published: May 2016

The successful elucidation of an unknown compound's molecular structure often requires an analyst with profound knowledge and experience of advanced spectroscopic techniques, such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The implementation of Computer‐Assisted Structure Elucidation (CASE) software in solving for unknown structures, such as isolated natural products and/or reaction impurities, can serve both as elucidation and teaching tools. As such, the introduction of CASE software with 112 exercises to train students in conjunction with the traditional pen and paper approach will strengthen their overall understanding of solving unknowns and explore of various structural end points to determine the validity of the results quickly. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of beef color using time‐domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD‐NMR) relaxometry data and multivariate analyses
Authors: Moreira Luiz Felipe Pompeu Prado , Ferrari Adriana Cristina , Moraes Tiago Bueno , Reis Ricardo Andrade , Colnago Luiz Alberto , Pereira Fabíola Manhas Verbi
Published: May 2016

Time‐domain nuclear magnetic resonance and chemometrics were used to predict color parameters, such as lightness (L*), redness (a*), and yellowness (b*) of beef (Longissimus dorsi muscle) samples. Analyzing the relaxation decays with multivariate models performed with partial least‐squares regression, color quality parameters were predicted. The partial least‐squares models showed low errors independent of the sample size, indicating the potentiality of the method. Minced procedure and weighing were not necessary to improve the predictive performance of the models. The reduction of transverse relaxation time (T2) measured by Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill pulse sequence in darker beef in comparison with lighter ones can be explained by the lower relaxivity Fe2+ present in deoxymyoglobin and oxymyoglobin (red beef) to the higher relaxivity of Fe3+ present in metmyoglobin (brown beef). These results point that time‐domain nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy can become a useful tool for quality assessment of beef cattle on bulk of the sample and through‐packages, because this technique is also widely applied to measure sensorial parameters, such as flavor, juiciness and tenderness, and physicochemical parameters, cooking loss, fat and moisture content, and instrumental tenderness using Warner Bratzler shear force. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Doubling down on phosphorylation as a variable peptide modification
Authors: Cooper Bret
Published: May 2016

Some mass spectrometrists believe that searching for variable PTMs like phosphorylation of serine or threonine when using database‐search algorithms to interpret peptide tandem mass spectra will increase false‐positive matching. The basis for this is the premise that the algorithm compares a spectrum to both a nonphosphorylated peptide candidate and a phosphorylated candidate, which is double the number of candidates compared to a search with no possible phosphorylation. Hence, if the search space doubles, false‐positive matching could increase accordingly as the algorithm considers more candidates to which false matches could be made. In this study, it is shown that the search for variable phosphoserine and phosphothreonine modifications does not always double the search space or unduly impinge upon the FDR. A breakdown of how one popular database‐search algorithm deals with variable phosphorylation is presented.
Investigation of O3‐Al2O3/H2O‐Al2O3 dielectric bilayer deposited by atomic‐layer deposition for GaN MOS capacitors
Authors: Shen Zhen , He Liang , Zhou Guilin , Yao Yao , Yang Fan , Ni Yiqiang , Zheng Yue , Zhou Deqiu , Ao Jinping , Zhang Baijun , Liu Yang
Published: May 2016

In this work, H2O‐Al2O3/O3‐Al2O3 insulating bilayers were grown on GaN by atomic‐layer deposition (ALD) technique using H2O vapor and O3 as oxidants. The electrical and material properties show that the H2O‐Al2O3/O3‐Al2O3 stack structure appeared to be an appropriate dielectric for GaN MOS devices that had low leakage current densities, high breakdown voltages, and good capacitance–voltage (C–V) curves. The H2O‐Al2O3 interlayer between the O3‐Al2O3 and GaN efficiently prevented the GaN surface from oxidizing by ozone oxidant by its strong oxidizing power. By taking photo‐assisted C–V measurements, it was found that the deep interface state densities at the Al2O3/GaN interface reduced, while increasing the thicknesses of the H2O‐Al2O3 interlayer restricted the “Vth shift” phenomenon and improved the stability and reliability of the GaN MOS devices.
Dimensionality of the oxidic layers in pnictide oxides and transition metal p‐element ordering in tetrelides and pnictides
Authors: Bartsch Timo , Johrendt Dirk , Pöttgen Rainer
Published: May 2016

Pnictide oxides exhibit a rich crystal chemistry, which is much more than the ZrCuSiAs structure of LaFeAsO, the mother‐structure of the 1‐1‐1‐1 materials. The present micro‐review focuses on different dimensionalities in the oxidic and the pnictide substructures, largely extending the structural building units. The second part concerns BaAl4/ThCr2Si2 superstructures, which extend the crystal chemistry of BaFe2As2. Key parameters for superstructure formation are either an ordering of the transition metal and p‐element atoms (coloring) or an ordering of vacancies.
Handling boundaries with the one‐dimensional first‐order recursive filter
Authors: Mirouze Isabelle , Storto Andrea
Published: May 2016

In variational data assimilation, a crucial task is to determine the background‐error covariance matrix B. The effect of B on a field is often modelled through a series of operators among which is a correlation operator. The recursive filter, when properly normalized to ensure the maximum of the solution is 1, is a convenient correlation operator and is widely used as such. Often, multi‐dimensional operators are constructed from the product of one‐dimensional operators. When their coefficients are calculated appropriately, the normalized one‐dimensional first‐order recursive filter applied N times models an autoregressive function of order N.

In ocean data assimilation, an extra difficulty is to handle, within the correlation operator, the boundaries formed by the different coastlines or the bathymetry. Handling the east/west wrapping or polar folds in global configurations are also part of the issue. The purpose of this article is to set up a mathematical framework for using the recursive filter in ocean data assimilation and properly accounting for boundaries. Generally, these problems are dealt with by calculating proper normalization factors using costly methods, or extending the grid near boundaries. It is shown that the normalization factors can be calculated inexpensively through an analytical formula with a corrective term to handle properly the boundary when Neumann or Dirichlet boundary conditions are used.

In its classical formulation however, the recursive filter uses Robin (third type) boundary conditions. This formulation can be slightly modified in order to account for Neumann, Dirichlet or periodic boundary conditions. To do so, extra coefficients are calculated through a simple recursive formula. In a global 1/4° analysis framework, this new formulation is shown to be less expensive and more accurate than the classical formulation associated with an appropriate grid extension.
Influence of thermal annealing on the microstructure, hardness and corrosion behavior of TiAlSiCuN nanocomposite films
Authors: Shi J. , Wan M. Q. , Wang H. L. , Wang X. , Wang T. ‐G.
Published: May 2016

Nanocomposite TiAlSiCuN films were deposited on high speed steels by filtered magnetic arc ion plating. Detailed properties of the films annealed at various temperatures are studied. After thermal annealing at different temperatures ranging from 400 to 800 °C, changes in the film micro‐structure, chemical and phase composition, surface morphology, hardness and polarization curve properties were systematically characterized by X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, nano‐indenter and electrochemical workstation, respectively. It was found that the TiAlSiCuN films could be fully oxidized at 800 °C, Al and Ti atoms all diffused outwards and formed dense protective Al2O3 and TiO2 layer. Simultaneously, the TiAlN phase gradually disappeared. The films annealed at 400 °C obtained the highest hardness because of the certain grain growth and little generated oxides. Besides, the certain formation of dense protective Al2O3 layer made the TiAlSiCuN film annealed at 600 °C present the least corrosion current density and the corrosion voltage. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
One‐step immersion method for fabricating superhydrophobic aluminum alloy with excellent corrosion resistance
Authors: Feng Libang , Che Yanhui , Liu Yanhua , Yan Zhongna , Wang Yanping , Qiang Xiaohu
Published: May 2016

This work develops a facile one‐step immersion method for preparing the superhydrophobic aluminum alloy, i.e. the aluminum alloy is treated with stearic acid (STA)–ethanol–H2O solution at 60 °C for 35 h. Results show that the aluminum alloy achieves flower‐like structure with both a great deal of pillars and pores, while the long hydrophobic alkyl chains are chemically grafted onto the hierarchical surface. Meanwhile, the water contact angle at the aluminum alloy surface gradually enhances with the decrease of the ethanol–H2O volume ratio, and the water contact angle and rolling angle of 156.2° and 5°, respectively, are obtained when the ethanol–H2O volume ratio is 1:3. Moreover, results show that the higher water contact angle at the aluminum alloy, the better corrosion resistance of the aluminum alloy. Consequently, the aluminum alloy with the superhydrophobic property has the best corrosion resistance, durability, and stability in corrosive environments. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing points‐based risk‐scoring systems in the presence of competing risks
Authors: Austin Peter C. , Lee Douglas S. , D'Agostino Ralph B. , Fine Jason P.
Published: May 2016

Predicting the occurrence of an adverse event over time is an important issue in clinical medicine. Clinical prediction models and associated points‐based risk‐scoring systems are popular statistical methods for summarizing the relationship between a multivariable set of patient risk factors and the risk of the occurrence of an adverse event. Points‐based risk‐scoring systems are popular amongst physicians as they permit a rapid assessment of patient risk without the use of computers or other electronic devices. The use of such points‐based risk‐scoring systems facilitates evidence‐based clinical decision making. There is a growing interest in cause‐specific mortality and in non‐fatal outcomes. However, when considering these types of outcomes, one must account for competing risks whose occurrence precludes the occurrence of the event of interest. We describe how points‐based risk‐scoring systems can be developed in the presence of competing events. We illustrate the application of these methods by developing risk‐scoring systems for predicting cardiovascular mortality in patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction. Code in the R statistical programming language is provided for the implementation of the described methods. © 2016 The Authors.Statistics in Medicinepublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Contemporary Review of Risk‐Stratified Management in Acute Uncomplicated and Complicated Diverticulitis
Authors: Boermeester Marja A. , Humes David J. , Velmahos George C. , Søreide Kjetil
Published: May 2016

Background

Acute colonic diverticulitis is a common clinical condition. Severity of the disease is based on clinical, laboratory, and radiological investigations and dictates the need for medical or surgical intervention. Recent clinical trials have improved the understanding of the natural history of the disease resulting in new approaches to and better evidence for the management of acute diverticulitis.

Methods

We searched the Cochrane Library (years 2004–2015), MEDLINE (years 2004–2015), and EMBASE (years 2004–2015) databases. We used the search terms “diverticulitis, colonic” or “acute diverticulitis” or “divertic*” in combination with the terms “management,” “antibiotics,” “non‐operative,” or “surgery.” Registers for clinical trials (such as the WHO registry and the https://clinicaltrials.gov/) were searched for ongoing, recruiting, or closed trials not yet published.

Results

Antibiotic treatment can be avoided in simple, non‐complicated diverticulitis and outpatient management is safe. The management of complicated disease, ranging from a localized abscess to perforation with diffuse peritonitis, has changed towards either percutaneous or minimally invasive approaches in selected cases. The role of laparoscopic lavage without resection in perforated non‐fecal diverticulitis is still debated; however, recent evidence from two randomised controlled trials has found a higher re‐intervention in this group of patients.

Conclusions

A shift in management has occurred towards conservative management in acute uncomplicated disease. Those with uncomplicated acute diverticulitis may be treated without antibiotics. For complicated diverticulitis with purulent peritonitis, the use of peritoneal lavage appears to be non‐superior to resection.
Editorial–Special Issue
Authors: Umstad Mark P. , Palma-Dias Ricardo , Khalil Asma
Published: May 2016

Monochorionic twin pregnancies are subject to unique complications that can threaten the life and well-being of both fetuses, resulting in a disproportionate increase in perinatal morbidity and mortality.
Moral Intuitions
Authors: Eden Allison , Tamborini Ron
Published: May 2016

Abstract. This study tested the relationship between morality and disposition formation proposed by disposition theory using intuitive moral intuitions as indicators of membership in a morality subculture. After completing a measure of intuitive morality, participants read a short scenario varying the morality of a character’s behavior, and then rated their moral approbation of the behavior and liking for the character. Results indicated that moral approbation mediated the relationship between character behavior and character disposition, and that intuitive morality moderated this relationship for the violation condition. Findings highlight the importance of moral intuitions in disposition formation processes, and support the use of intuitive morality in understanding responses to media characters.
Low Temporal Stability of Excessive Video Game Use in German	Adolescents
Authors: Rothmund Tobias , Klimmt Christoph , Gollwitzer Mario
Published: May 2016

Abstract. The popularity of digital games among adolescents has raised public and scientific concern about players drifting into excessive or pathological gaming patterns. Among the neglected issues in this area of research is the question of whether excessive gaming reflects a transient phenomenon during adolescence or a temporally stable pathological behavior that requires external intervention. In a correlational panel study with two points of measurement, we investigated the temporal stability of excessive gaming in German adolescents (N = 488; aged 12–17 years at Time 1) over a time lag of 1 year. Among the video game players in our sample, 2.8% were classified as excessive gamers at both points of measurement. The correlation of excessive gaming between T1 and T2 was found to be relatively moderate (r = .54). Detailed inspection revealed even lower stability scores for each single component of excessive gaming such as tolerance or conflict, with the most problematic elements (stealing, borrowing money because of gaming problems) displaying the lowest stabilities (r < .30). Thus, the results indicate that – at least for the large majority of adolescent players – excessive gaming is a transient and not a stable condition. Theoretical and policy implications are discussed.
Apoptotic CD8 T-lymphocytes disable macrophage-mediated immunity to Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Authors: Cabral-Piccin M P , Guillermo L V C , Vellozo N S , Filardy A A , Pereira-Marques S T , Rigoni T S , Pereira-Manfro W F , DosReis G A , Lopes M F
Published: May 2016

Chagas disease is caused by infection with the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. CD8 T-lymphocytes help to control infection, but apoptosis of CD8 T cells disrupts immunity and efferocytosis can enhance parasite infection within macrophages. Here, we investigate how apoptosis of activated CD8 T cells affects M1 and M2 macrophage phenotypes. First, we found that CD8 T-lymphocytes and inflammatory monocytes/macrophages infiltrate peritoneum during acute T. cruzi infection. We show that treatment with anti-Fas ligand (FasL) prevents lymphocyte apoptosis, upregulates type-1 responses to parasite antigens, and reduces infection in macrophages cocultured with activated CD8 T cells. Anti-FasL skews mixed M1/M2 macrophage profiles into polarized M1 phenotype, both in vitro and following injection in infected mice. Moreover, inhibition of T-cell apoptosis induces a broad reprogramming of cytokine responses and improves macrophage-mediated immunity to T. cruzi. The results indicate that disposal of apoptotic CD8 T cells increases M2-macrophage differentiation and contributes to parasite persistence.
Size quantization of Dirac fermions in graphene constrictions
Authors: Terrés B. , Chizhova L. A. , Libisch F. , Peiro J. , Jörger D. , Engels S. , Girschik A. , Watanabe K. , Taniguchi T. , Rotkin S. V. , Burgdörfer J. , Stampfer C.
Published: May 2016

Quantum point contacts are cornerstones of mesoscopic physics and central building blocks for quantum electronics. Although the Fermi wavelength in high-quality bulk graphene can be tuned up to hundreds of nanometres, the observation of quantum confinement of Dirac electrons in nanostructured graphene has proven surprisingly challenging. Here we show ballistic transport and quantized conductance of size-confined Dirac fermions in lithographically defined graphene constrictions. At high carrier densities, the observed conductance agrees excellently with the Landauer theory of ballistic transport without any adjustable parameter. Experimental data and simulations for the evolution of the conductance with magnetic field unambiguously confirm the identification of size quantization in the constriction. Close to the charge neutrality point, bias voltage spectroscopy reveals a renormalized Fermi velocity of ∼1.5 × 106 m s−1 in our constrictions. Moreover, at low carrier density transport measurements allow probing the density of localized states at edges, thus offering a unique handle on edge physics in graphene devices.
Multifunctional hydrogel nano-probes for atomic force microscopy
Authors: Lee Jae Seol , Song Jungki , Kim Seong Oh , Kim Seokbeom , Lee Wooju , Jackman Joshua A. , Kim Dongchoul , Cho Nam-Joon , Lee Jungchul
Published: May 2016

Since the invention of the atomic force microscope (AFM) three decades ago, there have been numerous advances in its measurement capabilities. Curiously, throughout these developments, the fundamental nature of the force-sensing probe—the key actuating element—has remained largely unchanged. It is produced by long-established microfabrication etching strategies and typically composed of silicon-based materials. Here, we report a new class of photopolymerizable hydrogel nano-probes that are produced by bottom-up fabrication with compressible replica moulding. The hydrogel probes demonstrate excellent capabilities for AFM imaging and force measurement applications while enabling programmable, multifunctional capabilities based on compositionally adjustable mechanical properties and facile encapsulation of various nanomaterials. Taken together, the simple, fast and affordable manufacturing route and multifunctional capabilities of hydrogel AFM nano-probes highlight the potential of soft matter mechanical transducers in nanotechnology applications. The fabrication scheme can also be readily utilized to prepare hydrogel cantilevers, including in parallel arrays, for nanomechanical sensor devices.
Probing topological protection using a designer surface plasmon structure
Authors: Gao Fei , Gao Zhen , Shi Xihang , Yang Zhaoju , Lin Xiao , Xu Hongyi , Joannopoulos John D. , Soljačić Marin , Chen Hongsheng , Lu Ling , Chong Yidong , Zhang Baile
Published: May 2016

Topological photonic states, inspired by robust chiral edge states in topological insulators, have recently been demonstrated in a few photonic systems, including an array of coupled on-chip ring resonators at communication wavelengths. However, the intrinsic difference between electrons and photons determines that the ‘topological protection’ in time-reversal-invariant photonic systems does not share the same robustness as its counterpart in electronic topological insulators. Here in a designer surface plasmon platform consisting of tunable metallic sub-wavelength structures, we construct photonic topological edge states and probe their robustness against a variety of defect classes, including some common time-reversal-invariant photonic defects that can break the topological protection, but do not exist in electronic topological insulators. This is also an experimental realization of anomalous Floquet topological edge states, whose topological phase cannot be predicted by the usual Chern number topological invariants.
Erratum: The heterogeneous energy landscape expression of KWW relaxation
Authors: Wu J. H. , Jia Q.
Published: May 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 20506; published online: 16 February 2016; updated: 20 May 2016. This Article contains typographical errors. Equation 3, should read: In the legend of Table 2, “Derived parameters of the function ρ (τ). Note: .” should read: “Derived parameters of the function ρ(τ).
Novel positive allosteric modulators of GABAA receptors with anesthetic activity
Authors: Maldifassi Maria C. , Baur Roland , Pierce David , Nourmahnad Anahita , Forman Stuart A. , Sigel Erwin
Published: May 2016

GABAA receptors are the main inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors in the brain and are targets for numerous clinically important drugs such as benzodiazepines, anxiolytics and anesthetics. We previously identified novel ligands of the classical benzodiazepine binding pocket in α1β2γ2 GABAA receptors using an experiment-guided virtual screening (EGVS) method. This screen also identified novel ligands for intramembrane low affinity diazepam site(s). In the current study we have further characterized compounds 31 and 132 identified with EGVS as well as 4-O-methylhonokiol. We investigated the site of action of these compounds in α1β2γ2 GABAA receptors expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes using voltage-clamp electrophysiology combined with a benzodiazepine site antagonist and transmembrane domain mutations. All three compounds act mainly through the two β+/α− subunit transmembrane interfaces of the GABAA receptors. We then used concatenated receptors to dissect the involvement of individual β+/α− interfaces. We further demonstrated that these compounds have anesthetic activity in a small aquatic animal model, Xenopus laevis tadpoles. The newly identified compounds may serve as scaffolds for the development of novel anesthetics.
MicroRNA-30 inhibits neointimal hyperplasia by targeting Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIδ (CaMKIIδ)
Authors: Liu Yong Feng , Spinelli Amy , Sun Li-Yan , Jiang Miao , Singer Diane V. , Ginnan Roman , Saddouk Fatima Z. , Van Riper Dee , Singer Harold A.
Published: May 2016

The multifunctional Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II δ-isoform (CaMKIIδ) promotes vascular smooth muscle (VSM) proliferation, migration, and injury-induced vascular wall neointima formation. The objective of this study was to test if microRNA-30 (miR-30) family members are endogenous regulators of CaMKIIδ expression following vascular injury and whether ectopic expression of miR-30 can inhibit CaMKIIδ-dependent VSM cell function and neointimal VSM hyperplasia induced by vascular injury. The CaMKIIδ 3′UTR contains a consensus miR-30 binding sequence that is highly conserved across species. A significant decrease in miR-30 family members and increase in CaMKIIδ2 protein expression, with no change in CaMKIIδ mRNA expression, was observed in medial layers of VSM 7 days post-injury. In vitro, overexpression of miR-30c or miR-30e inhibited CaMKIIδ2 protein expression by ~50% in cultured rat aortic VSM cells, and inhibited VSM cell proliferation and migration. In vivo, lenti-viral delivery of miR-30c into injured rat carotid arteries prevented the injury-induced increase in CaMKIIδ2. Furthermore, neointima formation was dramatically inhibited by lenti-viral delivery of miR-30c in the injured medial smooth muscle. These studies define a novel mechanism for regulating CaMKIIδ expression in VSM and provide a new potential therapeutic strategy to reduce progression of vascular proliferative diseases, including atherosclerosis and restenosis.
Erratum: A pharmacological inhibitor of NLRP3 inflammasome prevents non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in a mouse model induced by high fat diet
Authors: Yang Gabsik , Lee Hye Eun , Lee Joo Young
Published: May 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 24399; published online: 14 April 2016; updated: 20 May 2016. This Article contains errors in the Methods section under subheading ‘High-fat diet study’. “On the following day, mice were anesthetized with Zoletil (Virbac, Carros Cedex, France), and blood sampleswere collected by cardiac puncture.
Mapping the ecological dimensions and potential distributions of endangered relic shrubs in western Ordos biodiversity center
Authors: Zhu Geng-Ping , Li Hui-Qi , Zhao Li , Man Liang , Liu Qiang
Published: May 2016

Potential distributions of endemic relic shrubs in western Ordos were poorly mapped, which hindered our implementation of proper conservation. Here we investigated the applicability of ecological niche modeling for endangered relic shrubs to detect areas of priority for biodiversity conservation and analyze differences in ecological niche spaces used by relic shrubs. We applied ordination and niche modeling techniques to assess main environmental drivers of five endemic relic shrubs in western Ordos, namely,Ammopiptanthus mongolicus, Amygdalus mongolica, Helianthemum songaricum, Potaninia mongolica, andTetraena mongolica. We calculated niche overlap metrics in gridded environmental spaces and compared geographical projections of ecological niches to determine similarities and differences of niches occupied by relic shrubs. All studied taxa presented different responses to environmental factors, which resulted in a unique combination of niche conditions. Precipitation availability and soil quality characteristics play important roles in the distributions of most shrubs. Each relic shrub is constrained by a unique set of environmental conditions, the distribution of one species cannot be implied by the distribution of another, highlighting the inadequacy of one-fits-all type of conservation measure. Our stacked habitat suitability maps revealed regions around Yellow River, which are highly suitable for most species, thereby providing high conservation value.
Expression of an Oncogenic BARD1 Splice Variant Impairs Homologous Recombination and Predicts Response to PARP-1 Inhibitor Therapy in Colon Cancer
Authors: Ozden Ozkan , Bishehsari Faraz , Bauer Jessica , Park Seong-Hoon , Jana Arundhati , Baik Seung Hyun , Sporn Judith C. , Staudacher Jonas J. , Yazici Cemal , Krett Nancy , Jung Barbara
Published: May 2016

BRCA1-associated RING domain protein 1 (BARD1) stabilizes BRCA1 protein by forming a heterodimeric RING-RING complex and impacts function of BRCA1, including homologous recombination (HR) repair. Although colon cancer cells usually express wild type BRCA1, presence of an oncogenic BARD1 splice variant (SV) in select cancers may render BRCA1 dysfunctional and allow cells to become sensitive to HR targeting therapies. We previously reported association of loss of full-length (FL) BARD1 with poor prognosis in colon cancer as well as expression of various BARD1 SVs with unknown function. Here we show that loss of BARD1 function through the expression of a BARD1 SV, BARD1β, results in a more malignant phenotype with decreased RAD51 foci formation, reduced BRCA1 E3 ubiquitin ligase activity and decreased nuclear BRCA1 protein localization. BARD1β sensitizes colon cancer cells to poly ADP ribose polymerase 1 (PARP-1) inhibition even in a FL BRCA1 background. These results suggest that expression of BARD1β may serve as a future biomarker to assess suitability of colon cancers for HR targeting with PARP-1 inhibitors in treatment of advanced colon cancer.
Nrf2/Keap1 system regulates vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis for vascular homeostasis: role in neointimal formation after vascular injury
Authors: Ashino Takashi , Yamamoto Masayuki , Numazawa Satoshi
Published: May 2016

Abnormal increases in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in the intimal region after a vascular injury is a key event in developing neointimal hyperplasia. To maintain vascular function, proliferation and apoptosis of VSMCs is tightly controlled during vascular remodeling. NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) system, a key component of the oxidative stress response that acts in maintaining homeostasis, plays an important role in neointimal hyperplasia after a vascular injury; however, the role of Nrf2/Keap1 in VSMC apoptosis has not been clarified. Here we report that 14 days after arterial injury in mice, TUNEL-positive VSMCs are detected in both the neointimal and medial layers. These layers contain cells expressing high levels of Nrf2 but low Keap1 expression. In VSMCs, Keap1 depletion induces features of apoptosis, such as positive TUNEL staining and annexin V binding. These changes are associated with an increased expression of nuclear Nrf2. Simultaneous Nrf2 depletion inhibits Keap1 depletion-induced apoptosis. At 14 days after the vascular injury, Nrf2-deficient mice demonstrated fewer TUNEL-positive cells and increased neointimal formation in the neointimal and medial areas. The results suggest that the Nrf2/Keap1 system regulates VSMC apoptosis during neointimal formation, thereby inhibiting neointimal hyperplasia after a vascular injury.