bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-scale synthesis of stable mesoporous black TiO2 nanosheets for efficient solar-driven photocatalytic hydrogen evolution via an earth-abundant low-cost biotemplate
Authors: Zhang Kaifu , Zhou Wei , Zhang Xiangcheng , Qu Yang , Wang Lei , Hu Weiyao , Pan Kai , Li Mingxia , Xie Ying , Jiang Baojiang , Tian Guohui
Published: May 2016

Stable mesoporous black anatase TiO2 nanosheets (MBTNs) are synthesized via an earth-abundant low-cost biotemplate method combined with an ethanediamine encircling process, and exhibit excellent solar-driven photocatalytic hydrogen generation.
Investigation of the domain structure and hierarchy in potassium–sodium niobate lead-free piezoelectric single crystals
Authors: Bah Micka , Alyabyeva Natalya , Retoux Richard , Giovannelli Fabien , Zaghrioui Mustapha , Ruyter Antoine , Delorme Fabian , Monot-Laffez Isabelle
Published: May 2016

We reported self-organized and hierarchized domain structures on various length scales ranging from micrometer to nanometer scale in K0.5Na0.5NbO3 crystals.
A novel transmission model for plasmon-induced transparency in plasmonic waveguide system with a single resonator
Authors: Yang Hui , Li Guanhai , Su Xiaofang , Zhao Wenchao , Zhao Zengyue , Chen Xiaoshuang , Lu Wei
Published: May 2016

A novel transmission model with two branches is proposed to investigate the plasmon-induced transparency in a plasmonic waveguide system.
Yield-determining components in high-solid integrated first and second generation bioethanol production from cassava residues, furfual residues and corn
Authors: Tang Yong , Dou Xiaoli , Jiang Jianxin , Lei Fuhou , Liu Zuguang
Published: May 2016

Protein, cellulose, and starch were yield-determining components in high-solids integration process for ethanol production from cassava residuals, furfural residuals and corn.
Automated solid-phase extraction of organic pollutants using melamine–formaldehyde polymer-derived carbon foams
Authors: Ghani Milad , Maya Fernando , Cerdà Víctor
Published: May 2016

Solid-phase extraction of environmental pollutants is accomplished using carbon foams derived from melamine–formaldehyde polymer foams.
Facile synthesis of Mn-doped hollow Fe2O3 nanospheres coated with polypyrrole as anodes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Guangda , Han Rumeng , Xu Xiaoyun , Ren Manman
Published: May 2016

Hollow Mn-doped Fe2O3/PPy nanospheres have been fabricated, which exhibited excellent electrochemical performance as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Synthesis of 2-trifluoromethylquinolines via copper-mediated intramolecular oxidative cyclization of N-(2-alkenylaryl) enamines
Authors: Chen Wenfan , Ding Qiuping , Nie Ziyi , Peng Yiyuan
Published: May 2016

A general and efficient copper-mediated intramolecular oxidative cyclization of N-(2-alkenylaryl) enamines for the synthesis of 2-trifluoromethylquinolines has been developed.
Panoramic portrait of primary molecular events preceding excited state proton transfer in water
Authors: Liu Weimin , Wang Yanli , Tang Longteng , Oscar Breland G. , Zhu Liangdong , Fang Chong
Published: May 2016

Primary events that power ultrafast excited state proton transfer in water are revealed to involve coupled intermolecular and intramolecular motions.
In vitro upconverting/downshifting luminescent detection of tumor markers based on Eu3+-activated core–shell–shell lanthanide nanoprobes
Authors: Liu Yongsheng , Zhou Shanyong , Zhuo Zhu , Li Renfu , Chen Zhuo , Hong Maochun , Chen Xueyuan
Published: May 2016

We demonstrate the successful use of Eu3+-activated core–shell–shell nanoprobes forin vitroupconverting/downshifting luminescent detection of a cancer biomarker of alpha-fetoprotein.
Hybrid channel allocation in cellular network based on genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimisation methods
Authors: Ohatkar Sharada N. , Bormane Dattatraya S.
Published: May 2016

The challenge in wireless cellular network is to suit the changeable traffic demand by assigning appropriate channels from limited frequency spectrum and to maintain a desirable stratum of interference level. The system capacity can be improved by a reduction in interference effect by applying effectual channel assignment technique. This work proposes, genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimisation (PSO) techniques, with hybrid channel allocation for interference reduction. In GA, integer genetic representation for crossover and mutation operation is applied and graph theory based fitness function is designed. In PSO, hard and soft constraints are used for designing fitness function. The proposed GA and PSO compute co‐channel and co‐site interferences represented by interfering edges, the computation time and generations/iterations required. The signal‐to‐interference ratio (SIR) is determined, considering attenuation of the signal predicted by applying Hata propagation model. The performances of the proposed methods are applied on benchmark instances and are compared with the reported literature. The proposed PSO shows improvement in performance than GA in terms of reduction in interference, required computation time, generations/iterations required also improvement in the SIR.
Trajectory analysis for parking lot vacancy detection system
Authors: Masmoudi Imen , Wali Ali , Jamoussi Anis , Alimi Mohamed Adel
Published: May 2016

Taking a vacant parking lot in crowded metropolitan areas is a major problem especially with the huge number of vehicles. In this study, the authors provide a vision‐based system for real‐time management of parking spaces in the case of outdoor parking. Different real‐world challenges may face these systems such as weather conditions, luminance variation, perspective distortion and inter‐spaces occlusion. In this study, they propose a decisional module based on a tracking approach that determines in real time the state of the parking lots and localises the vacant parking spaces according to several extracted attributes. This decision is based on local characteristics of the parking spaces as well as the performed vehicles’ events.
Global energy management system for cooperative networked residential green buildings
Authors: Dagdougui Hanane , Ouammi Ahmed , Dessaint Louis , Sacile Roberto
Published: May 2016

This study addresses an optimisation problem faced by a network of green buildings (NGBs) connected to the main electrical grid. The problem is formulated as a cooperative internal power control among interacting residential buildings. The cooperation is reached through a communication infrastructure in the NGB, where the global central controller of the network is the responsible for the coordination of the local residential buildings' energy management systems by properly allowing the optimal management of the internal and external power flows in each building. The main advantage of the cooperation among residential buildings is to better match the load profile of each building internally (at the network level). In order to achieve this goal, components such as energy storage system, distributed generations and loads are included. The uncertainties characteristics of wind speed, solar irradiation, and loads are also considered for the control and operation of the whole system. A small network of five residential buildings has been simulated using the proposed model. Numerical results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed network.
Tutorial: Defects in semiconductors—Combining experiment and theory
Authors: Alkauskas Audrius , McCluskey Matthew D. , Van de Walle Chris G.
Published: May 2016

Point defects affect or even completely determine physical and chemical properties of semiconductors. Characterization of point defects based on experimental techniques alone is often inconclusive. In such cases, the combination of experiment and theory is crucial to gain understanding of the system studied. In this tutorial, we explain how and when such comparison provides new understanding of the defect physics. More specifically, we focus on processes that can be analyzed or understood in terms of configuration coordinate diagrams of defects in their different charge states. These processes include light absorption, luminescence, and nonradiative capture of charge carriers. Recent theoretical developments to describe these processes are reviewed.
Two-temperature-electron Zakharov equations for the dynamics of modulated collapse
Authors: Chen Z. H. , Yang X. S. , Chen X. C. , Chen H. , Liu S. Q.
Published: May 2016

Under the framework of the two-timescale method, we derived the two-temperature-electron Zakharov equations which can describe the wave-wave interaction among Langmuir wave, electromagnetic wave, and electron acoustic waves. Numerical results reveal that the modulation instability will lead the wave field collapse into a turbulent state. The spectrum obtained from the Fourier analysis shows a cascade of energy from large to small scales. In the collapse processes, the hot electrons are expelled by the ponderomotive force induced by the high frequency waves, and then density cavitons are formed.
Thermophoretically induced large-scale deformations around microscopic heat centers
Authors: Puljiz Mate , Orlishausen Michael , Köhler Werner , Menzel Andreas M.
Published: May 2016

Selectively heating a microscopic colloidal particle embedded in a soft elastic matrix is a situation of high practical relevance. For instance, during hyperthermic cancer treatment, cell tissue surrounding heated magnetic colloidal particles is destroyed. Experiments on soft elastic polymeric matrices suggest a very long-ranged, non-decaying radial component of the thermophoretically induced displacement fields around the microscopic heat centers. We theoretically confirm this conjecture using a macroscopic hydrodynamic two-fluid description. Both thermophoretic and elastic effects are included in this theory. Indeed, we find that the elasticity of the environment can cause the experimentally observed large-scale radial displacements in the embedding matrix. Additional experiments confirm the central role of elasticity. Finally, a linearly decaying radial component of the displacement field in the experiments is attributed to the finite size of the experimental sample. Similar results are obtained from our theoretical analysis under modified boundary conditions.
Going beyond 20 μm-sized channels for studying red blood cell phase separation in microfluidic bifurcations
Authors: Roman Sophie , Merlo Adlan , Duru Paul , Risso Frédéric , Lorthois Sylvie
Published: May 2016

Despite the development of microfluidics, experimental challenges are considerable for achieving a quantitative study of phase separation, i.e., the non-proportional distribution of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) and suspending fluid, in microfluidic bifurcations with channels smaller than 20 μm. Yet, a basic understanding of phase separation in such small vessels is needed for understanding the coupling between microvascular network architecture and dynamics at larger scale. Here, we present the experimental methodologies and measurement techniques developed for that purpose for RBC concentrations (tube hematocrits) ranging between 2% and 20%. The maximal RBC velocity profile is directly measured by a temporal cross-correlation technique which enables to capture the RBC slip velocity at walls with high resolution, highlighting two different regimes (flat and more blunted ones) as a function of RBC confinement. The tube hematocrit is independently measured by a photometric technique. The RBC and suspending fluid flow rates are then deduced assuming the velocity profile of a Newtonian fluid with no slip at walls for the latter. The accuracy of this combination of techniques is demonstrated by comparison with reference measurements and verification of RBC and suspending fluid mass conservation at individual bifurcations. The present methodologies are much more accurate, with less than 15% relative errors, than the ones used in previous in vivo experiments. Their potential for studying steady state phase separation is demonstrated, highlighting an unexpected decrease of phase separation with increasing hematocrit in symmetrical, but not asymmetrical, bifurcations and providing new reference data in regimes where in vitro results were previously lacking.
How does a probe inserted into the discharge influence the plasma structure?
Authors: Yordanov D. , Lishev St. , Shivarova A.
Published: May 2016

Shielding the bias applied to the probe by the sheath formed around it and determination of parameters of unperturbed plasmas are in the basis of the probe diagnostics. The results from a two-dimensional model of a discharge with a probe inserted in it show that the probe influences the spatial distribution of the plasma parameters in the entire discharge. The increase (although slight) in the electron temperature, due to the increased losses of charged particles on the additional wall in the discharge (mainly the probe holder), leads to redistribution of the plasma density and plasma potential, as shown by the results obtained at the floating potential of the probe. The deviations due to the bias applied to the probe tip are stronger in the ion saturation region of the probe characteristics. The pattern of the spatial redistribution of the plasma parameters advances together with the movement of the probe deeper in the discharge. Although probe sheaths and probe characteristics resulting from the model are shown, the study does not aim at discussions on the theories for determination of the plasma density from the ion saturation current. Regardless of the modifications in the plasma behavior in the entire discharge, the deviations of the plasma parameters at the position of the probe tip and, respectively, the uncertainty which should be added as an error when the accuracy of the probe diagnostics is estimated do not exceed 10%. Consequently, the electron density and temperature obtained, respectively, at the position of the plasma potential on the probe characteristics and from its transition region are in reasonable agreement with the results from the model of the discharge without a probe. Being in the scope of research on a source of negative hydrogen ions with the design of a matrix of small radius inductive discharges, the model is specified for a low-pressure hydrogen discharge sustained in a small-radius tube.
Low-temperature, high-density plasmas in long micro-tubes
Authors: Gou J. , Xian Y. , Lu X.
Published: May 2016

A low-temperature He microplasma plume generated in a micro quartz tube with the inner diameter decreasing from 245 μm to 6 μm is reported. The microplasma plume has a length of around 1.5 cm and reaches the position where the tube diameter is 10 μm. Though the inner diameter of the tube is in sub-millimeter, the cross section of the tube is not fully filled with the plasma only until the tube inner diameter is down to 30 μm. The electron density estimated from Hα stark broadening increases as the inner diameter of the tube decreases. The ignition voltage increases from 11 kV to 40 kV as the diameter of the inner quartz tube decreases from 245 μm to 10 μm. Further analysis shows that, in order to ignite a non-equilibrium plasma plume in 1 μm diameter tube, the applied voltage of about 65 kV is needed and the plasma density could be as high as ∼1018 cm−3.
Defect characterization of proton irradiated GaAs pn-junction diodes with layers of InAs quantum dots
Authors: Sato Shin-ichiro , Schmieder Kenneth J. , Hubbard Seth M. , Forbes David V. , Warner Jeffrey H. , Ohshima Takeshi , Walters Robert J.
Published: May 2016

In order to expand the technology of III-V semiconductor devices with quantum structures to both terrestrial and space use, radiation induced defects as well as native defects generated in the quantum structures should be clarified. Electrically active defects in GaAs p+n diodes with embedded ten layers of InAs quantum dots (QDs) are investigated using Deep Level Transient Fourier Spectroscopy. Both majority carrier (electron) and minority carrier (hole) traps are characterized. In the devices of this study, GaP layers are embedded in between the QD layers to offset the compressive stress introduced during growth of InAs QDs. Devices are irradiated with high energy protons for three different fluences at room temperature in order to characterize radiation induced defects. Seven majority electron traps and one minority hole trap are found after proton irradiation. It is shown that four electron traps induced by proton irradiation increase in proportion to the fluence, whereas the EL2 trap, which appears before irradiation, is not affected by irradiation. These defects correspond to electron traps previously identified in GaAs. In addition, a 0.53 eV electron trap and a 0.14 eV hole trap are found in the QD layers before proton irradiation. It is shown that these native traps are also unaffected by irradiation. The nature of the 0.14 eV hole trap is thought to be Ga-vacancies in the GaP strain balancing layers.
PHz current switching in calcium fluoride single crystal
Authors: Kwon Ojoon , Kim D.
Published: May 2016

We demonstrate that a current can be induced and switched in a sub-femtosecond time-scale in an insulating calcium fluoride single crystal by an intense optical field. This measurement indicates that a sizable current can be generated and also controlled by an optical field in a dielectric medium, implying the capability of rapid current switching at a rate of optical frequency, PHz (1015 Hz), which is a couple of orders of magnitude higher than that of contemporary electronic signal processing. This demonstration may serve to facilitate the development of ultrafast devices in PHz frequency.
Stacking fault emission in GaN: Influence of n-type doping
Authors: Hocker M. , Tischer I. , Neuschl B. , Thonke K. , Caliebe M. , Klein M. , Scholz F.
Published: May 2016

We present spatially and spectrally resolved cathodoluminescence investigations on the cross section of semipolar (112¯2) gallium nitride epitaxial layers with high background doping level. The locally varying high carrier concentration leads in emission to a free electron recombination band (FERB) governed on the high energy side by conduction band filling. For the basal plane stacking fault (BSF) of type I1, typically emitting at ≈3.41 eV in low doped GaN, we find a blue shift in emission correlated to the FERB high energy tail. This shift can be perfectly modeled and understood in a quantum well model for the BSF, taking also into account the varying doping level in the barrier region. Thus, the carrier concentration can be finally calculated either from the actual position of the I1 BSF or alternatively from the FERB-related near band edge emission.
Double negative electromagnetic properties of percolated Fe53Ni47/Cu granular composites
Authors: Tsutaoka Takanori , Massango Herieta , Kasagi Teruhiro , Yamamoto Shinichiro , Hatakeyama Kenichi
Published: May 2016

Electromagnetic properties of hybrid composite materials containing copper and permalloy (Fe53Ni47 alloy) particles have been investigated in the RF to microwave frequency range up to 20 GHz. Double negative permittivity and permeability spectra have been observed in the percolated state of the hybrid composite material. The negative permittivity spectra in this composite can be attributed to the low frequency plasmonic state produced by the percolated Cu and permalloy cluster chains as well as the dielectric resonance of the isolated metal clusters. The refractive index spectra which were calculated from the measured permittivity and permeability data indicated the negative refraction from 200 MHz to 1.8 GHz. The near zero or zero refractive index state can be obtained near the two zero crossing frequencies in the refractive index spectra.
A label-free and high-throughput separation of neuron and glial cells using an inertial microfluidic platform
Authors: Jin Tiantian , Yan Sheng , Zhang Jun , Yuan Dan , Huang Xu-Feng , Li Weihua
Published: May 2016

While neurons and glial cells both play significant roles in the development and therapy of schizophrenia, their specific contributions are difficult to differentiate because the methods used to separate neurons and glial cells are ineffective and inefficient. In this study, we reported a high-throughput microfluidic platform based on the inertial microfluidic technique to rapidly and continuously separate neurons and glial cells from dissected brain tissues. The optimal working condition for an inertial biochip was investigated and evaluated by measuring its separation under different flow rates. Purified and enriched neurons in a primary neuron culture were verified by confocal immunofluorescence imaging, and neurons performed neurite growth after separation, indicating the feasibility and biocompatibility of an inertial separation. Phencyclidine disturbed the neuroplasticity and neuron metabolism in the separated and the unseparated neurons, with no significant difference. Apart from isolating the neurons, purified and enriched viable glial cells were collected simultaneously. This work demonstrates that an inertial microchip can provide a label-free, high throughput, and harmless tool to separate neurological primary cells.
On utilizing alternating current-flow field effect transistor for flexibly manipulating particles in microfluidics and nanofluidics
Authors: Liu Weiyu , Shao Jinyou , Ren Yukun , Liu Jiangwei , Tao Ye , Jiang Hongyuan , Ding Yucheng
Published: May 2016

By imposing a biased gate voltage to a center metal strip, arbitrary symmetry breaking in induced-charge electroosmotic flow occurs on the surface of this planar gate electrode, a phenomenon termed as AC-flow field effect transistor (AC-FFET). In this work, the potential of AC-FFET with a shiftable flow stagnation line to flexibly manipulate micro-nano particle samples in both a static and continuous flow condition is demonstrated via theoretical analysis and experimental validation. The effect of finite Debye length of induced double-layer and applied field frequency on the manipulating flexibility factor for static condition is investigated, which indicates AC-FFET turns out to be more effective for achieving a position-controllable concentrating of target nanoparticle samples in nanofluidics compared to the previous trial in microfluidics. Besides, a continuous microfluidics-based particle concentrator/director is developed to deal with incoming analytes in dynamic condition, which exploits a design of tandem electrode configuration to consecutively flow focus and divert incoming particle samples to a desired downstream branch channel, as prerequisite for a following biochemical analysis. Our physical demonstrations with AC-FFET prove valuable for innovative designs of flexible electrokinetic frameworks, which can be conveniently integrated with other microfluidic or nanofluidic components into a complete lab-on-chip diagnostic platform due to a simple electrode structure.
Simulation study on nitrogen vibrational kinetics in a single nanosecond pulse high voltage air discharge
Authors: Yang Wei , Zhou Qianhong , Dong Zhiwei
Published: May 2016

We report a simulation study on nitrogen vibrational kinetics N2(X1Σg+,v=0−12) in a single nanosecond pulse high voltage discharge in dry-air at a pressure of 100 Torr. Apart from the usual processes such as vibrational-vibrational exchange and vibrational-translational relaxation, the state-specific vibrational kinetics take into account the electronic-vibrational (E-V) process and chemical-vibrational process. The vibrational kinetics, coupled with electron Boltzmann equation solver, plasma chemical kinetics, and gas thermal balance are used to model the 100 ns discharge and its subsequent 10 ms afterglow. The self-consistent model shows good agreement with recent experimental results, with regard to time-resolved vibrational and translational temperature. According to the modeling results, The E-V mechanism has a small but non-negligible effect (about 2%) in rising of vibrational quanta in the early afterglow from 100 ns to 1μs. Another possible reason is the convective transport associated with the gas dynamic expansion in time delays around 1μs to 10 μs.
Depairing current density through a low-angle grain boundary in a superconducting film
Authors: Xue Feng , Zhang Zhaoxia , Zeng Jun , Gou Xiaofan
Published: May 2016

In this paper, the effect of a grain boundary (GB) on the depairing current density of a high-temperature superconducting film is investigated. The modified effective free energy is proposed by considering the interaction of the superconducting condensate with the deformation of the superconductor due to the dislocations which constitute a grain boundary. After the elastic strain field of the dislocation is obtained, we analyzed the depress effect of the GB on the depairing current density of a superconducting film. The results are qualitatively agreement with the classic exponential relationship with the misorientation angles of the critical current density of high-temperature superconductors.
Novel antimony doped tin oxide/carbon aerogel as efficient electrocatalytic filtration membrane
Authors: Liu Zhimeng , Zhu Mengfu , Wang Zheng , Wang Hong , Deng Cheng , Li Kui
Published: May 2016

A facile method was developed to prepare antimony doped tin oxide (Sb-SnO2)/carbon aerogel (CA) for use as an electrocatalytic filtration membrane. The preparation process included synthesis of a precursor sol, impregnation, and thermal decomposition. The Sb-SnO2, which was tetragonal in phase with an average crystallite size of 10.8 nm, was uniformly distributed on the CA surface and firmly attached via carbon-oxygen-tin chemical bonds. Preliminary filtration tests indicated that the Sb-SnO2/CA membrane had a high rate of total organic carbon removal for aqueous tetracycline owing to its high current efficiency and electrode stability.
Environmental impacts and resource use from Australian pork production assessed using life-cycle assessment. 1. Greenhouse gas emissions
Authors: Wiedemann S. G. , McGahan Eugene J. , Murphy Caoilinn M.
Published: May 2016

Agricultural industries are under increasing pressure to measure and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the supply chain. The Australian pork industry has established proactive goals to improve greenhouse-gas (GHG) performance across the industry, but while productivity indicators are benchmarked by industry, similar data have not previously been collected to determine supply chain GHG emissions. To assess total GHG emissions from Australian pork production, the present study conducted a life-cycle assessment of six case study supply chains and the national herd for the year 2010. The study aimed to determine total GHG emissions and hotspots, and to determine the mitigation potential from alternative manure treatment systems. Two functional units were used: 1 kg of pork liveweight (LW) at the farm gate, and 1 kg of wholesale pork (chilled, bone-in) ready for packaging and distribution. Mean GHG emissions from the case study supply chains ranged from 2.1 to 4.5 kg CO2-e/kg LW (excluding land-use (LU) and direct land use-change (dLUC) emissions). Emissions were lowest from the piggeries that housed grower-finisher pigs on deep litter and highest from pigs housed in conventional systems with uncovered anaerobic effluent ponds. Mean contribution from methane from effluent treatment was 64% of total GHG at the conventional piggeries. Nitrous oxide arose from both grain production and manure management, comprising 7–33% of the total emissions. The GHG emissions for the national herd were 3.6 kg CO2-e/kg LW, with the largest determining factor on total emissions being the relative proportion of pigs managed with high or low emission manure management systems. Emissions from LU and dLUC sources ranged from 0.08 to 0.7 kg CO2-e/kg LW for the case study farms, with differences associated with the inclusion rate of imported soybean meal in the ration and feed-conversion ratio. GHG intensity (excluding LU, dLUC) from the national herd was 6.36 ± 1.03 kg CO2-e/kg wholesale pork, with the emission profile dominated by methane from manure management (50%), followed by feed production (27%) and then meat processing (8%). Inclusion of LU and dLUC emissions had a minor effect on the emission profile. Scenarios testing showed that biogas capture from anaerobic digestion with combined heat and power generation resulted in a 31–64% reduction in GHG emissions. Finishing pigs on deep litter as preferred to conventional housing resulted in 38% lower GHG emissions than conventional finishing.
Probing the metabolic water contribution to intracellular water using oxygen isotope ratios of PO
4
Authors: Li Hui , Yu Chan , Wang Fei , Chang Sae Jung , Yao Jun , Blake Ruth E.
Published: May 2016

Significance

Conventional thought holds that the stable isotopic composition (O and H) of water inside the cells of microorganisms and most aquatic macroorganisms is identical to that of the surrounding water. This assumption is widely applied in studies of environmental reconstruction. Results presented here, based on techniques of multilabeled water isotope probing and measurement of
18
O/
16
O ratios in PO
4
moieties of intracellular biomolecules, which allows direct sampling of intracellular environments, demonstrate a significant metabolic water component in intracellular water that is consistent across multiple strains of bacteria when grown under similar conditions. The intracellular water probe presented here, based on PO
4
δ
18
O in DNA/biomass, may be extended to other biomolecules and organisms.
SA-SSR: a suffix array-based algorithm for exhaustive and efficient SSR discovery in large genetic sequences
Authors: Pickett B. D. , Karlinsey S. M. , Penrod C. E. , Cormier M. J. , Ebbert M. T. W. , Shiozawa D. K. , Whipple C. J. , Ridge P. G.
Published: May 2016

Summary: Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) are used to address a variety of research questions in a variety of fields (e.g. population genetics, phylogenetics, forensics, etc.), due to their high mutability within and between species. Here, we present an innovative algorithm, SA-SSR, based on suffix and longest common prefix arrays for efficiently detecting SSRs in large sets of sequences. Existing SSR detection applications are hampered by one or more limitations (i.e. speed, accuracy, ease-of-use, etc.). Our algorithm addresses these challenges while being the most comprehensive and correct SSR detection software available. SA-SSR is 100% accurate and detected >1000 more SSRs than the second best algorithm, while offering greater control to the user than any existing software.

Availability and implementation: SA-SSR is freely available at http://github.com/ridgelab/SA-SSR

Contact:  perry.ridge@byu.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Minimal Clinically Important Difference for Three Quality of Recovery Scales
Authors: Myles Paul S. , Myles Daniel B. , Galagher Wendy , Chew Colleen , MacDonald Neil , Dennis Alicia
Published: May 2016

AbstractAbstract

In a study of 204 patients, the minimum clinically meaningful differences in the quality of recovery scales were 0.9, 8.0, and 6.3 for the 9-, 15-, and 40-item versions, respectively.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background

Several quality of recovery (QoR) health status scales have been developed to quantify the patient’s experience after anesthesia and surgery, but to date, it is unclear what constitutes the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). That is, what minimal change in score would indicate a meaningful change in a patient’s health status?

Methods

The authors enrolled a sequential, unselected cohort of patients recovering from surgery and used three QoR scales (the 9-item QoR score, the 15-item QoR-15, and the 40-item QoR-40) to quantify a patient’s recovery after surgery and anesthesia. The authors compared changes in patient QoR scores with a global rating of change questionnaire using an anchor-based method and three distribution-based methods (0.3 SD, standard error of the measurement, and 5% range). The authors then averaged the change estimates to determine the MCID for each QoR scale.

Results

The authors enrolled 204 patients at the first postoperative visit, and 199 were available for a second interview; a further 24 patients were available at the third interview. The QoR scores improved significantly between the first two interviews. Triangulation of distribution- and anchor-based methods results in an MCID of 0.92, 8.0, and 6.3 for the QoR score, QoR-15, and QoR-40, respectively.

Conclusion

Perioperative interventions that result in a change of 0.9 for the QoR score, 8.0 for the QoR-15, or 6.3 for the QoR-40 signify a clinically important improvement or deterioration.
Raising Questions About Capitalist Globalization and Universalizing Views on Women
Authors: Scheer Victoria L. , Stevens Patricia E. , Mkandawire-Valhmu Lucy
Published: May 2016

Nursing in the United States has embraced global health primarily from a clinical perspective, with emphasis on care delivery to populations in underserved, resource-poor settings. Less attention has been devoted to developing expertise about social, economic, and political contexts that produce ill health around the world. The purpose of this article is to offer a transnational feminist critique of the World Development Report: Gender Equality and Development and to illuminate implications such reports may have in the lives of the world's most marginalized women and girls. We examine the political economy idealized in the report, raising questions about the capitalist framework underpinning its agenda. Second, we examine the assumptive language used in the report, suggesting that it discursively constructs a problematic representation of women in low-income countries. We contend that the report perpetuates a hegemonic discourse of patriarchy and inequality for women in the Global South through the use of an uncontested economic framework and universalist reasoning. We conclude the article with discussion about a transformative policy making that could be more inclusive of the wisdoms, values, and everyday experiences of women living in the Global South and about the vital role nurses can play in advancing gender equity through their active collaboration in policy critique and policy formulation.
Determinants of mortality risk following osteoporotic fractures
Authors: Bliuc Dana , Center Jacqueline R.
Published: May 2016

Purpose of review

Increased mortality risk is accepted for hip and vertebral fracture. Recent data suggest that other fracture types have also been linked to excess mortality. This article reviews the existing evidence on the pattern and determinants of postfracture mortality.

Recent findings

The pattern of mortality over time following hip and vertebral fractures has recently been clarified. Nonhip nonvertebral fractures at major, and even minor sites in older individuals have also been associated with excess mortality. Studies have revealed the higher excess mortality in men and in younger age groups for all fracture types. Despite the increasing knowledge on the fracture-mortality association, little is known about its cause. The role of co-morbidities is inconsistent across studies. Recent findings suggest low bone mass, bone loss and muscle weakness are linked to both fracture and mortality risk, and thus may play a role in postfracture mortality.

Nonhip nonvertebral fractures have recently been associated with mortality risk. Larger studies are needed to better understand which specific fractures and factors contribute to fracture-associated mortality risk. The role of bone loss in postfracture mortality needs to be validated in more studies, because of its potential reversibility with antifracture therapies.
Targeting the interleukin-23/17 axis in axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Paine Ananta , Ritchlin Christopher T.
Published: May 2016

Purpose of review

This article highlights and emphasizes how new knowledge of mechanisms linked to the interleukin-23 (IL-23)/IL-17 pathway is relevant to the pathophysiology of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and demonstrates how molecules in IL-23/IL-17 pathway provide novel therapeutic targets for axSpA patients.

Recent findings

Similarly to ankylosing spondylitis (AS), the increased frequency of Th17 cells in nr-axSpA patients underscores the concept that these disorders can be viewed on a spectrum. Recent findings suggest that the contribution of IL-23/IL-17 signaling pathways possibly differs in male and female AS patients. The finding that IL-17 and IL-22 secreting-type 3 innate lymphoid cells are increased in AS patients point to their potential role in the pathogenesis of axSpA. Reports of dysbiosis in the gut microbiome of AS patients support previous work indicating a possible causal relationship between altered gut flora, ileocolonic inflammation and axSpA. Of important clinical relevance are results from clinical trials supporting the efficacy and safety of agents that block IL-12/23 (ustekinumab) and IL-17 (secukinumab and ixekizumab) in AS patients.

Recent studies further establish the central position of the IL-23/IL-17 pathway in the pathogenesis of axSpA. Targeting the IL-23/IL-17 pathway appears to be a safe and effective strategy for treatment of axSpA patients.
How to Avoid Cast Saw Complications
Authors: Halanski Matthew A.
Published: May 2016

Background:

As casts are routinely used in pediatric orthopaedics, casts saws are commonly used to remove such casts. Despite being a viewed as the “conservative” and therefore often assumed safest treatment modality, complications associated with the use of casts and cast saws occur.

Methods:

In this manuscript, we review the risk factors associated with cast saw injuries.

Results:

Cast saw injuries are thermal or abrasive (or both) in nature. Thermal risk factors include: cast saw specifications (including a lack of attached vacuum), use of a dull blade, cutting in a concavity, too thin padding, and overly thick casting materials. Risk factors associated with abrasive injuries include: sharp blades, thin padding, and cutting over boney prominences. Because nearly all clinicians contact the skin with the blade during cast removal, appropriate “in-out technique” is critical. Such technique prevents a hot blade from remaining in contact with the skin for any significant time, diminishing the risk of burn. Similarly, using such technique prevents “dragging the blade” that may pull the skin taught, cutting it. It may be useful to teach proper technique as perforating a cast rather than cutting a cast.
Canadian Consensus for the Prevention of Blood Loss in Spine Surgery
Authors: Pauyo Thierry , Verma Neil , Marwan Yousef , Aoude Ahmed , Khashan Morsi , Weber Michael H.
Published: May 2016

Study Design.

Cross-sectional, modified Delphi approach.

Objective.

The primary objective of this study was to identify patients at risk of increased perioperative blood loss according to the opinion of expert spine surgeons across Canada. The secondary objective was to obtain information about the experts’ approach on how to minimize significant blood loss perioperatively.

Summary of Background Data.

Significant blood loss in major spinal surgeries has been associated with increased intra- and perioperative complications and costs. The current available evidence regarding risk factors and preventive measures for increased blood loss remains incomplete.

Methods.

A modified Delphi approach was employed to generate consensus opinion on the risk factors and preventive measures for significant blood loss in major spinal surgeries. Twenty-five spine surgeons in Canada participated in this study.

Results.

Among various factors, surgery for the treatment of spine tumors and prolonged operative time of greater than 5 hours were found to be the most important predictive factors for blood loss in spine surgery. On the other hand, appropriate surgical hemostasis was considered the most effective measure for the prevention of blood loss in these surgeries.

Conclusion.

We recommend the reduction of blood loss by means of meticulous hemostasis and shorter operative time when it is safe and possible. This might result in better treatment outcomes. It would also lead to a reduction in costs associated with major spine surgeries and would ultimately lead to greater value-based spine care.

Level of Evidence: 4
Isolation and Characterization of an HLA-DPB1*04:01-restricted MAGE-A3 T-Cell Receptor for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Yao Xin , Lu Yong-Chen , Parker Linda L. , Li Yong F. , El-Gamil Mona , Black Mary A. , Xu Hui , Feldman Steven A. , van der Bruggen Pierre , Rosenberg Steven A. , Robbins Paul F.
Published: May 2016

Long-term tumor regressions have been observed in patients following the adoptive transfer of autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes or genetically modified T cells expressing MHC class I-restricted T-cell receptors (TCRs), but clinical trials have not evaluated responses to genetically modified T cells expressing antitumor MHC class II-restricted TCRs. As studies carried out in a murine tumor model system have demonstrated that the adoptive transfer of CD4+ T cells could lead to the regression of established tumors, we plan to test the hypothesis that CD4+ T cells can also induce tumor regressions in cancer patients. In this study, 2 MAGE-A3-specific TCRs were isolated from a regulatory T-cell clone (6F9) and an effector clone (R12C9), generated from the peripheral blood of 2 melanoma patients after MAGE-A3 vaccination. The results indicated that T cells transduced with 6F9 TCR mediated stronger effector functions than R12C9 TCR. The 6F9 TCR specifically recognized MAGE-A3 and the closely related MAGE-A6 gene product, but not other members of the MAGE-A family in the context of HLA-DPB1*04:01. To test the feasibility of a potential clinical trial using this TCR, a clinical-scale procedure was developed to obtain a large number of purified CD4+ T cells transduced with 6F9 TCR. Because HLA-DPB1*04:01 is present in ∼60% of the Caucasian population and MAGE-A3 is frequently expressed in a variety of cancer types, this TCR immunotherapy could potentially be applicable for a significant portion of cancer patients.
The Utility of Developmental Checklists in Parent-held Health Records in Singapore
Authors: Koh Hwan Cui , Ang Sandy Kai Ting , Kwok Janell , Tang Hui Nee , Wong Chui Mae , Daniel Lourdes Mary , Goh Winnie
Published: May 2016

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate parents' perceptions of developmental checklists and the child development monitoring schedule in the Singapore health booklet.

Method:

Parents of children aged 2 years 6 months to 3 years 11 months with or without developmental concerns (n = 450) completed a structured interview, and their child's health booklets were reviewed.

Results:

Most parents reported reading and using the developmental checklists. However, only about half of them attempted the checklists with minimal help from professionals. Approximately 7 in 10 parents of children with developmental concerns found the checklists useful for identifying concerns about their child. Despite positive feedback from parents about the checklists, only about 1 in 4 parents brought their child for a 2 to 3 years developmental monitoring visit at the time of the survey, and the completion rates of the checklists were less than desirable.

Conclusions:

Further revisions to the checklists can include simplifying the words and sentences and providing relevant pictures to aid understanding. If the checklists are to be used for screening, standardization of how the checklists are to be completed and how children at risk of developmental delays can be identified on the checklists need to be provided. Parents' awareness of the importance of evaluating their child's development at 9 months, 18 months, and particularly at 2.5 years, needs to be raised. Developmental screening for children at these critical ages can be made mandatory. An electronic version of the health booklet is likely to facilitate implementation of developmental screening in the health care system.
Emerging Trends in Nonsurgical Female Genital Rejuvenation
Authors: Vanaman Monique , Bolton Joanna , Placik Otto , Fabi Sabrina Guillen
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Aging, childbearing, and hormonal changes can lead to vulvovaginal laxity and mucosal atrophy that negatively affect a woman's quality of life. As more minimally and noninvasive options for genital rejuvenation become available in the outpatient setting, it becomes increasingly important for the dermatologic surgeon to be familiar with these popular procedures.

OBJECTIVE

To familiarize dermatologists with the nonsurgical options available for female genital rejuvenation, patient motivations for pursuing these procedures, relevant anatomy, and potential adverse events.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A MEDLINE search was performed on nonsurgical female genital rejuvenation from 1989 to 2015, and results are summarized.

RESULTS

Reports of nonsurgical female genital rejuvenation procedures using fractional carbon dioxide lasers, nonablative lasers, monopolar radiofrequency devices, hyaluronic acid fillers, and fat transfer are concisely summarized for the practicing dermatologist.

CONCLUSION

Review of the literature revealed expanding options for nonsurgical female genital rejuvenation.
Current and Emerging Options for Documenting Scars and Evaluating Therapeutic Progress
Authors: Poetschke Julian , Schwaiger Hannah , Gauglitz Gerd G.
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Current studies on pathological scarring often rely on subjective means. The identification and implementation of objective documentation standards are of high priority.

OBJECTIVE

To identify, describe, and evaluate current and upcoming options for objective scar documentation.

METHODS

The authors analyzed imaging options (ultrasound, PRIMOS, and optical coherence tomography) and scales/questionnaires (Visual Analog Scale, Vancouver Scar Scale, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, and Dermatology Life Quality Index) based on the existing literature and described their application for scar documentation.

RESULTS

A variety of capable options for the documentation of scars are available. None of these, however, seem suitable as a stand-alone tool for scar documentation.

CONCLUSION

A combination of objective imaging tools in combination with questionnaires and scar scales may be warranted to achieve comprehensive documentation during everyday clinical work and in regard to a higher level of evidence in future research.
Yoga in Pregnancy
Authors: BABBAR SHILPA , SHYKEN JAYE
Published: May 2016

Yoga is a mind-body practice that encompasses a system of postures (asana), deep breathing (pranayama), and meditation. Over 36 million Americans practice yoga of which the majority are reproductive-aged women. Literature to support this practice is limited, albeit on the rise. A prenatal yoga practice has been shown to benefit women who suffer from anxiety, depression, stress, low back pain, and sleep disturbances. A small number of studies have been performed in high-risk pregnancies that also demonstrate an improvement in outcomes. The safety of performing yoga for the first time in pregnancy and fetal tolerance has been demonstrated.