bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enantiomer-specific analysis of multi-component mixtures by correlated electron imaging–ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Fanood Mohammad M Rafiee , Ram N. Bhargava , Lehmann C. Stefan , Powis Ivan , Janssen Maurice H. M. 
Published: June 2015

AbstractSimultaneous, enantiomer-specific identification of chiral molecules in multi-component mixtures is extremely challenging. Many established techniques for single-component analysis fail to provide selectivity in multi-component mixtures and lack sensitivity for dilute samples. Here we show how enantiomers may be differentiated by mass-selected photoelectron circular dichroism using an electron–ion coincidence imaging spectrometer. As proof of concept, vapours containing ∼1% of two chiral monoterpene molecules, limonene and camphor, are irradiated by a circularly polarized femtosecond laser, resulting in multiphoton near-threshold ionization with little molecular fragmentation. Large chiral asymmetries (2–4%) are observed in the mass-tagged photoelectron angular distributions. These asymmetries switch sign according to the handedness (R- or S-) of the enantiomer in the mixture and scale with enantiomeric excess of a component. The results demonstrate that mass spectrometric identification of mixtures of chiral molecules and quantitative determination of enantiomeric excess can be achieved in a table-top instrument.
Controlled synthesis of series NixCo3-xO4 products: Morphological evolution towards quasi-single-crystal structure for high-performance and stable lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhou Yu , Liu Yong , Zhao Wenxia , Wang Hai , Li Baojun , Zhou Xiang , Shen Hui 
Published: June 2015

AbstractTransition metal oxides are very promising alternative anode materials for high-performance lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, their conversion reactions and concomitant volume expansion cause the pulverization, leading to poor cycling stability, which limit their applications. Here, we present the quasi-single-crystal NixCo3-xO4 hexagonal microtube (QNHM) composed of continuously twinned single crystal submicron-cubes as anode materials for LIBs with high energy density and long cycle life. At the current density of 0.8 A g−1, it can deliver a high discharge capacities of 1470 mAh g−1 over 100 cycles (105% of the 2nd cycle) and 590 mAh g−1 even after 1000 cycles. To better understand what underlying factors lead our QNHMs to achieve excellent electrochemical performance, a series of NixCo3-xO4 products with systematic shape evolution from spherical to polyhedral and cubic particles as well as circular microtubes consisted of spheres and square microtubes composed of polyhedra have been synthesized. The excellent electrochemical performance of QNHMs is attributed to the unique stable quasi-single-crystal structure, which can both provide efficient electrical transport pathway and suppress the electrode pulverization. It is important to note that such quasi-single-crystal structure would be helpful to explore other high-energy lithium storage materials based on alloying or conversion reactions.
Age and Gender Effects on Wideband Absorbance in Adults With Normal Outer and Middle Ear Function
Authors: Mazlan Rafidah , Kei Joseph , Ya Cheng Li , Yusof Wan Nur Hanim Mohd , Saim Lokman , Zhao Fei 
Published: June 2015

Purpose
This study examined the effects of age and gender on wideband energy absorbance in adults with normal middle ear function.

Method
Forty young adults (14 men, 26 women, aged 20–38 years), 31 middle-aged adults (16 men, 15 women, aged 42–64 years), and 30 older adults (20 men, 10 women, aged 65–82 years) were assessed. Energy absorbance (EA) data were collected at 30 frequencies using a prototype commercial instrument developed by Interacoustics.

Results
Results showed that the young adult group had significantly lower EA (between 400 and 560 Hz) than the middle-aged group. However, the middle-aged group showed significantly lower EA (between 2240 and 5040 Hz) than the young adult group. In addition, the older adult group had significantly lower EA than the young adult group (between 2520 and 5040 Hz). No significant difference in EA was found at any frequency between middle-aged and older adults. Across age groups, gender differences were found with men having significantly higher EA values than women at lower frequencies, whereas women had significantly higher EA at higher frequencies.

Conclusions
This study provides evidence of the influence of gender and age on EA in adults with normal outer and middle ear function. These findings support the importance of establishing age- and gender-specific EA norms for the adult population.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Late Neurologic Deterioration after C3–C6 Laminoplasty for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Sakaura Hironobu , Miwa Toshitada , Kuroda Yusuke , Ohwada Tetsuo 
Published: June 2015

Study Design Retrospective study. Objective We previously reported that the long-term neurologic outcomes of C3–C6 laminoplasty for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) are satisfactory, with reduced frequencies of postoperative axial neck pain and kyphotic deformity. However, only 20 patients were included, which is a limitation in that study. The present study investigated the incidence of late neurologic deterioration (LND) of myelopathic symptoms after C3–C6 laminoplasty for CSM and attempted to identify significant risk factors for LND in a larger patient population. Methods Subjects comprised 137 consecutive patients with CSM who underwent C3–C6 laminoplasty (bilateral open-door laminoplasty, n = 85; unilateral open-door laminoplasty, n = 52) and were followed for >24 months (mean follow-up, 70 months; range, 25 to 124 months). The patients’ medical records were examined for evidence of LND due to cervical myelopathy. The age at time of surgery, sex, surgical procedures, anteroposterior spinal canal diameter at the C7 level, type of C6 spinous process, pre- and postoperative C2–C7 angle, C3–C6 range of motion (ROM), and disk height at the C6–C7 level were analyzed to identify risk factors for LND. Results Three patients (2.2%) developed LND of myelopathic symptoms due to caudal segment pathology adjacent to the C3–C6 laminoplasty (LND group). In these three patients, mean Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score improved from 10.2 before surgery to 12.2 at the time of maximum recovery, and declined to 9.7 just before additional surgery. On the other hand, in 134 patients without LND (non-LND group), the mean JOA score significantly improved from 10.2 before surgery to 13.4 at the time of maximum recovery and was maintained by the final follow-up (13.2). Compared with the non-LND group, the LND group showed significantly smaller anteroposterior spinal canal diameter at C7, more restricted postoperative C3–C6 ROM, and greater postoperative decrease in disk height at C6–C7, although a logistic regression analysis showed no significant differences. Conclusions In patients with CSM with more severe developmental spinal canal stenosis at C7, accelerated degeneration at the caudal segment resulting from restricted C3–C6 ROM after C3–C6 laminoplasty might lead to LND.
Backbones of evolutionary history test biodiversity theory for microbes
Authors: O’Dwyer James P. , Kembel Steven W. , Sharpton Thomas J. 
Published: June 2015

SignificanceLinking mechanism and data to explain patterns of biodiversity is a central goal in ecology. Microbial communities provide new challenges in addressing this goal, among them the potential for novel ecological mechanisms at work and also the difficulty in applying an unambiguous species concept. Patterns of evolutionary history, or phylogenetic diversity, provide an alternative framework, circumventing the need to define microbial species. We document multiple patterns of phylogenetic diversity, finding striking and unexpected similarities in these patterns across habitats, and we find that these patterns are inconsistent with neutral biodiversity theory, which has been successful in describing patterns of species diversity for macroscopic organisms. Our results suggest that a new, alternative family of models provides a better description for microbes.
CD14 dependence of TLR4 endocytosis and TRIF signaling displays ligand specificity and is dissociable in endotoxin tolerance
Authors: Rajaiah Rajesh , Perkins Darren J. , Ireland Derek D. C. , Vogel Stefanie N. 
Published: June 2015

SignificanceMyD88-dependent signaling is cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14)-dependent only at low LPS concentrations, whereas activation of the TIR-domain–containing adapter-inducing IFN-β (TRIF) pathway requires CD14 at all LPS concentrations, leading to internalization of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) complex into endosomes whereupon TRIF is recruited. Using alternative TLR4 agonists, or macrophages rendered tolerant to LPS, we dissociate TLR4 complex internalization from CD14 and TRIF-dependent signaling. In response to LPS, CD14 contributes to the formation of a TLR4/MD2 complex dimer that, in turn, promotes endocytosis and IRF3 activation.
Engineered cellular gene-replacement platform for selective and inducible proteolytic profiling
Authors: Morgan Charles W. , Diaz Juan E. , Zeitlin Samantha G. , Gray Daniel C. , Wells James A. 
Published: June 2015

Significance
Apoptosis, a type of programmed cell death, is critical for the removal of diseased or superfluous cells and is essential in maintaining tissue homeostasis. At the molecular level, apoptosis leads to the highly coordinated selective proteolysis of more than a thousand cellular proteins. Until now, determining the individual molecular consequence of proteolysis has been largely out of reach. Our article reports biotechnological advances that enable rapid and reliable posttranscriptional gene replacement for robust inducible and selective proteolysis of the replacement allele. We go on to further show the utility of our technology in deciphering synthetic lethality resulting from coordinated proteolysis of caspase substrates that control the apoptotic hallmark of chromatin fragmentation.
Tissue stiffness regulates serine/arginine-rich protein-mediated splicing of the extra domain B-fibronectin isoform in tumors
Authors: Bordeleau Francois , Califano Joseph P. , Negrón Abril Yashira L. , Mason Brooke N. , LaValley Danielle J. , Shin Sandra J. , Weiss Robert S. , Reinhart-King Cynthia A. 
Published: June 2015

Significance
Alternative splicing is the main mechanism that drives protein diversity; however, little is known about the physiological cues that control splicing. Here, we show that the stiffness of the extracellular matrix mediates protein splicing in cells both in vitro and in vivo. Alternative splicing mediated by matrix stiffness occurs through the phosphorylation of splicing regulatory factors, serine/arginine rich (SR) proteins, and depends on the PI3K signaling pathway. Because the SR family of proteins are conserved among both vertebrates and invertebrates and are known to also be involved in genome stabilization, translation, and mRNA export, these results suggest a previously unidentified mechanism by which cells can respond and adapt to their mechanical microenvironment in both healthy and diseased states.
Implications of fisheries impacts to seabed biodiversity and ecosystem-based management
Authors: Thrush Simon F. , Ellingsen Kari E. , Davis Kathryn 
Published: June 2015

AbstractBiodiversity has many key roles in ecosystems, and many elements of biodiversity support fish species and therefore also fisheries. At the same time, cooperation fisheries also often affect seabed biodiversity. Furthermore, fisheries may also change the composition of fish communities, and we illustrate why changes in fish communities can matter to seabed biodiversity. These issues should matter to fisheries management. Biodiversity research by definition addresses heterogeneity and this should influence the nature of questions the science seeks to address and how empirical studies are designed. However, to date biodiversity research has not been fully incorporated into mainstream fisheries science. We aim to facilitate the transition to a more transdisciplinary framework, and move beyond the fisheries-focused management. Human pressure is increasing, and many ecosystems are affected by cumulative impacts from different sources of disturbance. We discuss insights from biodiversity and ecosystem function research, and we advocate for a focus on cumulative impacts from disturbance and resilience. We consider these to be critical elements of the transition into ecosystem-based management. The ecological systems and the services that they generate can be either degraded and support less biodiversity and a smaller range of human values, or they can be resorted. The choice is ours. We advocate for a development of participatory multi-sector management that integrates different institutions to contribute to cultural, social, economic, and biodiversity values for ocean governance.
Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing Hydroxyapatite/Epoxide Acrylate Maleic Compound Construction for Craniomaxillofacial Bone Defects
Authors: Zhang Lei , Shen Shunyao , Yu Hongbo , Shen Steve Guofang , Wang Xudong 
Published: June 2015

Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the use of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing hydroxyapatite (HA)/epoxide acrylate maleic (EAM) compound construction artificial implants for craniomaxillofacial bone defects. Computed tomography, computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing and three-dimensional reconstruction, as well as rapid prototyping were performed in 12 patients between 2008 and 2013. The customized HA/EAM compound artificial implants were manufactured through selective laser sintering using a rapid prototyping machine into the exact geometric shapes of the defect. The HA/EAM compound artificial implants were then implanted during surgical reconstruction. Color-coded superimpositions demonstrated the discrepancy between the virtual plan and achieved results using Geomagic Studio. As a result, the HA/EAM compound artificial bone implants were perfectly matched with the facial areas that needed reconstruction. The postoperative aesthetic and functional results were satisfactory. The color-coded superimpositions demonstrated good consistency between the virtual plan and achieved results. The three-dimensional maximum deviation is 2.12 ± 0.65 mm and the three-dimensional mean deviation is 0.27 ± 0.07 mm.
No facial nerve weakness or pain was observed at the follow-up examinations. Only 1 implant had to be removed 2 months after the surgery owing to severe local infection. No other complication was noted during the follow-up period. In conclusion, computer-aided, individually fabricated HA/EAM compound construction artificial implant was a good craniomaxillofacial surgical technique that yielded improved aesthetic results and functional recovery after reconstruction.
Circular Excision and Purse-String Closure for Pediatric Facial Skin Lesions
Authors: Hassanein Aladdin H. , Couto Javier A. , Greene Arin K. 
Published: June 2015

Abstract
Standard resection of pediatric facial skin lesions consists of lenticular excision and linear closure. This one-stage procedure for circular lesions results in a linear scar 3 times longer than the diameter of the removed specimen. Circular excision and purse-string closure has been described for infantile hemangiomas to reduce the length of scar. The purpose of this study was to analyze the application of this technique for any type of circular facial skin lesion in the pediatric population.
Records of consecutive pediatric patients with facial skin lesions treated with circular excision and purse-string closure from 2007–2014 were reviewed. Patient age, sex, type of lesion, location, and size were recorded. Number of stages necessary to remove the area and complications were analyzed.
Seventy-seven children (74% female) underwent circular excision and purse-string closure for an infantile hemangioma (46%), pigmented nevus (27%), Spitz nevus (7%), pilomatrixoma (5%), pyogenic granuloma (5%), vascular malformation (4%), or another type of skin lesion (6%). Age at the time of resection was 6.0 years (range 4 months–17 years) and mean lesion area was 3.9 cm2 (range 0.2–19.6); 30% of patients underwent a second procedure and no infection or wound dehiscence occurred.
Circular excision and purse-string closure is an effective technique to manage any type of circular skin lesion in the pediatric population. It is particularly useful for lesions on the face because it limits the length of a scar. A subset of patients may benefit from second procedure to convert the circular scar from a circle into a line.
The Effect of Nasal Septal Deviation on Frontal and Maxillary Sinus Volumes and Development of Sinusitis
Authors: Karataş Duran , Koç Ali , Yüksel Fatih , Doğan Murat , Bayram Ali , Cihan Mehmet C. 
Published: June 2015

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the possible role of nasal septal deviation on volume of maxillary and frontal sinuses. Between February 2011 and October 2013, paranasal sinus computed tomography (CT) findings of 732 patients (410 males, 322 females) who were admitted to Ear Nose and Throat Department of Kayseri Research and Training Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. By excluding the other coexistent sinonasal pathologies, 83 consecutive patients with nasal septal deviations were included in the study. The volume of each maxillary and frontal sinus (ipsi- and contralateral to the deviation side) was also calculated using the computer program. There was no statistically significant difference between ipsilateral and contralateral maxillary sinus volumes in group 1 and group 3 (P > 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between ipsilateral and contralateral maxillary sinus volumes in group 2 (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between ipsilateral and contralateral frontal sinus volumes in group 1, group 2, and group 3 (P > 0.05). Moderate septal deviation significantly affects the volume of maxillary sinus. Mild and severe septal deviation does not significantly affect the volume of maxillary sinus. Effect of septal deviation on frontal sinus volume was not detected. The probability to encounter maxillary and frontal sinusitis ipsilateral to the all septum deviation groups was significantly increased in both right- and left-sided subjects.
Mechanical morphogenesis and the development of neocortical organisation
Authors: Foubet Ophélie , Toro Roberto 
Published: June 2015

AbstractThe development and evolution of complex neocortical organisations is thought to result from the interaction of genetic and activity-dependent processes. Here we propose that a third type of process – mechanical morphogenesis – may also play an important role. We review recent theoretical and experimental results in non-linear physics showing how homogeneous growth can produce a rich variety of forms, in particular neocortical folding. The mechanical instabilities that produce these forms also induce heterogeneous patterns of stress at the scale of the organ. We review the evidence showing how these stresses can influence cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis, cell differentiation and shape, migration and axonal guidance, and could thus be able to influence regional neocortical identity and connectivity.
Using spatial analyses of bearded vulture movements in southern Africa to inform wind turbine placement
Authors: Reid Tim , Krüger Sonja , Whitfield D. Philip , Amar Arjun 
Published: June 2015

Summary

Concerns over CO2 emissions during energy generation and its effect on climate change have led to increases in the use of renewables, such as wind energy. However, there are also serious environmental concerns over this type of energy production due to its impacts on bats and birds.

In southern Africa, bearded vultures have declined by >30% during recent decades. They are now regionally critically endangered with only around 100 active pairs remaining. This species is considered vulnerable to collision with wind turbines which are planned within their southern African range.

In this study, we develop habitat use models using data obtained from 21 bearded vultures of different ages fitted with GPS tags from 2009 to 2013. We further refined these models by incorporating flying heights at risk of collision to predict important areas of use that may conflict with wind turbines.

Adult and non‐adult bearded vultures mostly used areas with high elevations and steep and rugged topography in the core area; adults tended to use areas in relatively close proximity to their nest sites, whereas non‐adult birds used areas dispersed over the entire species range and were more likely to fly at risk‐height in areas that were less used by adults. Altitudes of fixes of adults and non‐adults showed that they spent 55% and 66% of their time, respectively, at heights that placed them at risk of collision.

Examining the locations of two proposed wind farms in relation to our model of predicted ‘at risk’ usage suggested poor positioning. Indeed, one of these wind farms was located within the 1% of ‘worst’ (most heavily used) sites for non‐adult bearded vultures suggesting that its current location should be reconsidered to reduce the impact on this vulnerable species.

Synthesis and applications. We demonstrate the value of habitat use models for identifying intensively used areas, in order to greatly reduce conflicts with developments such as wind turbines. This tool is operable at the scale of regional and national development plans informed by the habitat use of potentially vulnerable species. Such models should provide important supplementary assessments of site‐specific development proposals.
Comparison of current practice and best practice guidelines for the nutritional management of patients with liver cirrhosis: An Australian survey of dietitians in clinical practice
Authors: Nguyen Trang 
Published: June 2015

AbstractAimMalnutrition is common in patients with chronic liver disease and is recognised as a prognostic factor with evidence suggesting that sufficient nutritional support can improve outcomes. However, malnutrition in this patient population continues to be underdiagnosed and managed in clinical practice. This paper outlines a study aimed to determine current practice among dietitians, compares this with best practice guidelines and identifies barriers to achieving best practice.MethodsThis study aims to involved an anonymous online survey questionnaire targeted at dietitians with at least 12 months of experience working with patients with liver cirrhosis.ResultsA total of 41 completed surveys were received and analysed. Results showed that the majority (85%) of respondents were using the European Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism guidelines. Over 85% of surveyed dietitians reported that they were currently recommending high‐energy and high‐protein diets to their patients. Methods used to calculate dietary requirements varied, with some respondents using actual weight and others using dry weight. There was also variation in nutrition assessment tool used among surveyed respondents. Thirty‐six per cent of respondents reported that nasogastric feeding always or often commenced when recommended. The most commonly reported barrier to achieving best practice was patient compliance.ConclusionsFrom the study, it appears that most dietitians are consistently recommending high‐energy and protein intake. However, there is significant variation in practice for weights used in calculating nutritional requirements, assessing nutritional status and nasogastric tube use for nutrition support.