bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of antimicrobial stewardship implementation in elective surgery in dr Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital using Gyssens Method
Authors:   Training Program in Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, dr Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia., Ulima Rhea P. , Moenadjat Yefta ,   Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, dr Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Nowadays, surgical site infections (SSI) remain the most common complication of surgical procedures. In prevention, prophylactic antibiotics are the first option, which leads to the high use of antibiotics. However, antibiotic administration should be based on strategies such as stewardship. Thus, the study aimed to assess the situation using Gyssens' method. Method. A retrospective cohort study analyzed the antibiotic administration of most major elective surgeries, including thyroidectomy, mastectomy, and cholecystectomy, proceeded in Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia, from January to July 2023. Indication, type, dosage, timing, interval, duration, and route of administration were the variables of interest. Results. Of 191 subjects who underwent the most common elective surgery procedures, 30 used combination antibiotics. Gyssens category 0 consists of 165 subjects (86.5%), and 11 subjects (5.8%) were classified as category IIA, indicating inappropriate dose (inadequate, insufficient). Inaccuracies were identified as mistimed administration (5.8%), less effective antibiotic selection (3.1%), incorrect dosage (2.6%), and inappropriate timing (2.1%). The association of Gyssens categories with SSIs showed a p-value of > 0.05 with an odds ratio of 1, indicating that both appropriate and inappropriate antibiotics of the Gyssens category showed no impact on SSIs or non–SSIs. Conclusion. The adherence to antimicrobial stewardship in the most common elective surgery in the Department of Surgery, dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital was 86.4 and subjected to improvement.
Heat transfer characteristics of solid-liquid interface on nanostructure surface under external electric field
Authors: Qi Kai , Zhu Xing-Guang , Wang Jun , Xia Guo-Dong ,   Key Laboratory of Enhanced Heat Transfer and Energy Conservation, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Heat Transfer and Energy Conservation, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
Published: June 2024

With the size of high-performance electronic device decreasing (down to nanoscale), and the accompanying heat dissipation becomes a big problem due to its extremely high heat generation density. To tackle the ever-demanding heat dissipation requirement, intensive work has been done to develop techniques for chip-level cooling. Among the techniques reported in the literature, liquid cooling appears to be a good candidate for cooling high-performance electronic devices. However, when the device size is reduced to the sub-micro or nanometer level, the thermal resistance on the solid-liquid interface cannot be ignored in the heat transfer process. Usually, the interfacial thermal transport can be enhanced by using nanostructures on the solid surface because of the confinement effect of the fluid molecules filling up the nano-grooves and the increase of the solid-liquid interfacial contact area. However, in the case of weak interfacial couplings, the fluid molecules cannot enter into the nano-grooves and the interfacial thermal transport is suppressed. In the present work, the heat transfer system between two parallel metal plates filled with deionized water is investigated by molecular dynamics simulation. Electronic charges are applied to the upper plate and lower plate to create a uniform electric field that is perpendicular to the surface, and three types of nanostructures with varying size are arranged on the lower plate. It is found that the wetting state at the solid-liquid interface can change from Cassie state into Wenzel state with strength of the electric field increasing. Owing to the transition from the dewetting state to wetting state (from Wenzel to Cassie wetting state), the Kapitza length can be degraded and the solid-liquid interfacial heat transfer can be enhanced. The mechanism of the enhancing hart transfer is discussed based on the calculation of the number density distribution of the water molecules between the two plates. When the charge is further increased, electrofreezing appears, and a solid hydrogen bonding network is formed in the system, resulting in the thermal conductivity increasing to 1.2 W/(m·K) while the thermal conductivity remains almost constant when the electric charge continues to increase.
Elevated glycolytic metabolism of monocytes limits the generation of HIF1A-driven migratory dendritic cells in tuberculosis
Authors: Maio Mariano , Barros Joaquina , Joly Marine , Vahlas Zoi , Marín Franco José Luis , Genoula Melanie , Monard Sarah C , Vecchione María Belén , Fuentes Federico , Gonzalez Polo Virginia , Quiroga María Florencia , Vermeulen Mónica , Vu Manh Thien-Phong , Argüello Rafael J , Inwentarz Sandra , Musella Rosa , Ciallella Lorena , González Montaner Pablo , Palmero Domingo , Lugo Villarino Geanncarlo , Sasiain María del Carmen , Neyrolles Olivier , Vérollet Christel , Balboa Luciana
Published: June 2024

During tuberculosis (TB), migration of dendritic cells (DCs) from the site of infection to the draining lymph nodes is known to be impaired, hindering the rapid development of protective T-cell-mediated immunity. However, the mechanisms involved in the delayed migration of DCs during TB are still poorly defined. Here, we found that infection of DCs with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) triggers HIF1A-mediated aerobic glycolysis in a TLR2-dependent manner, and that this metabolic profile is essential for DC migration. In particular, the lactate dehydrogenase inhibitor oxamate and the HIF1A inhibitor PX-478 abrogated Mtb-induced DC migration in vitro to the lymphoid tissue-specific chemokine CCL21, and in vivo to lymph nodes in mice. Strikingly, we found that although monocytes from TB patients are inherently biased toward glycolysis metabolism, they differentiate into poorly glycolytic and poorly migratory DCs compared with healthy subjects. Taken together, these data suggest that because of their preexisting glycolytic state, circulating monocytes from TB patients are refractory to differentiation into migratory DCs, which may explain the delayed migration of these cells during the disease and opens avenues for host-directed therapies for TB.
Accurate prediction of CDR-H3 loop structures of antibodies with deep learning
Authors: Chen Hedi , Fan Xiaoyu , Zhu Shuqian , Pei Yuchan , Zhang Xiaochun , Zhang Xiaonan , Liu Lihang , Qian Feng , Tian Boxue
Published: June 2024

Accurate prediction of the structurally diverse complementarity determining region heavy chain 3 (CDR-H3) loop structure remains a primary and long-standing challenge for antibody modeling. Here, we present the H3-OPT toolkit for predicting the 3D structures of monoclonal antibodies and nanobodies. H3-OPT combines the strengths of AlphaFold2 with a pre-trained protein language model and provides a 2.24 Å average RMSDCα between predicted and experimentally determined CDR-H3 loops, thus outperforming other current computational methods in our non-redundant high-quality dataset. The model was validated by experimentally solving three structures of anti-VEGF nanobodies predicted by H3-OPT. We examined the potential applications of H3-OPT through analyzing antibody surface properties and antibody–antigen interactions. This structural prediction tool can be used to optimize antibody–antigen binding and engineer therapeutic antibodies with biophysical properties for specialized drug administration route.
Conserved regulatory motifs in the juxtamembrane domain and kinase N-lobe revealed through deep mutational scanning of the MET receptor tyrosine kinase domain
Authors: Estevam Gabriella O. , Linossi Edmond M. , Macdonald Christian B. , Espinoza Carla A. , Michaud Jennifer M. , Coyote-Maestas Willow , Collisson Eric A. , Jura Natalia , Fraser James S.
Published: June 2024

MET is a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) responsible for initiating signaling pathways involved in development and wound repair. MET activation relies on ligand binding to the extracellular receptor, which prompts dimerization, intracellular phosphorylation, and recruitment of associated signaling proteins. Mutations, which are predominantly observed clinically in the intracellular juxtamembrane and kinase domains, can disrupt typical MET regulatory mechanisms. Understanding how juxtamembrane variants, such as exon 14 skipping (METΔEx14), and rare kinase domain mutations can increase signaling, often leading to cancer, remains a challenge. Here, we perform a parallel deep mutational scan (DMS) of the MET intracellular kinase domain in two fusion protein backgrounds: wild type and METΔEx14. Our comparative approach has revealed a critical hydrophobic interaction between a juxtamembrane segment and the kinase ⍺C-helix, pointing to potential differences in regulatory mechanisms between MET and other RTKs. Additionally, we have uncovered a β5 motif that acts as a structural pivot for the kinase domain in MET and other TAM family of kinases. We also describe a number of previously unknown activating mutations, aiding the effort to annotate driver, passenger, and drug resistance mutations in the MET kinase domain.
FAK loss reduces BRAFV600E-induced ERK phosphorylation to promote intestinal stemness and cecal tumor formation
Authors: Gao Chenxi , Ge Huaibin , Kuan Shih-Fan , Cai Chunhui , Lu Xinghua , Esni Farzad , Schoen Robert E , Wang Jing H , Chu Edward , Hu Jing
Published: June 2024

BRAFV600E mutation is a driver mutation in the serrated pathway to colorectal cancers. BRAFV600E drives tumorigenesis through constitutive downstream extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation, but high-intensity ERK activation can also trigger tumor suppression. Whether and how oncogenic ERK signaling can be intrinsically adjusted to a ‘just-right’ level optimal for tumorigenesis remains undetermined. In this study, we found that FAK (Focal adhesion kinase) expression was reduced in BRAFV600E-mutant adenomas/polyps in mice and patients. In Vil1-Cre;BRAFLSL-V600E/+;Ptk2fl/fl mice, Fak deletion maximized BRAFV600E’s oncogenic activity and increased cecal tumor incidence to 100%. Mechanistically, our results showed that Fak loss, without jeopardizing BRAFV600E-induced ERK pathway transcriptional output, reduced EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor)-dependent ERK phosphorylation. Reduction in ERK phosphorylation increased the level of Lgr4, promoting intestinal stemness and cecal tumor formation. Our findings show that a ‘just-right’ ERK signaling optimal for BRAFV600E-induced cecal tumor formation can be achieved via Fak loss-mediated downregulation of ERK phosphorylation.
Single-cell transcriptomics of vomeronasal neuroepithelium reveals a differential endoplasmic reticulum environment amongst neuronal subtypes
Authors: Devakinandan GVS , Terasaki Mark , Dani Adish
Published: June 2024

Specialized chemosensory signals elicit innate social behaviors in individuals of several vertebrate species, a process that is mediated via the accessory olfactory system (AOS). The AOS comprising the peripheral sensory vomeronasal organ has evolved elaborate molecular and cellular mechanisms to detect chemo signals. To gain insight into the cell types, developmental gene expression patterns, and functional differences amongst neurons, we performed single-cell transcriptomics of the mouse vomeronasal sensory epithelium. Our analysis reveals diverse cell types with gene expression patterns specific to each, which we made available as a searchable web resource accessed from https://www.scvnoexplorer.com. Pseudo-time developmental analysis indicates that neurons originating from common progenitors diverge in their gene expression during maturation with transient and persistent transcription factor expression at critical branch points. Comparative analysis across two of the major neuronal subtypes that express divergent GPCR families and the G-protein subunits Gnai2 or Gnao1, reveals significantly higher expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) associated genes within Gnao1 neurons. In addition, differences in ER content and prevalence of cubic membrane ER ultrastructure revealed by electron microscopy, indicate fundamental differences in ER function.
Perturbation-response analysis of in silico metabolic dynamics in nonlinear regime: Hard-coded responsiveness in the cofactors and network sparsity
Authors: Himeoka Yusuke , Furusawa Chikara
Published: June 2024

Homeostasis is a fundamental characteristic of living systems. Unlike rigidity, homeostasis necessitates that systems respond flexibly to diverse environments. Understanding the dynamics of biochemical systems when subjected to perturbations is essential for the development of a quantitative theory of homeostasis. In this study, we analyze the response of bacterial metabolism to externally imposed perturbations using kinetic models of
Escherichia coli
’s central carbon metabolism in nonlinear regimes. We found that three distinct kinetic models consistently display strong responses to perturbations; In the strong responses, minor initial discrepancies in metabolite concentrations from steady-state values amplify over time, resulting in significant deviations. This pronounced responsiveness is a characteristic feature of metabolic dynamics, especially since such strong responses are seldom seen in toy models of the metabolic network. Subsequent numerical studies show that adenyl cofactors consistently influence the responsiveness of the metabolic systems across models. Additionally, we examine the impact of network structure on metabolic dynamics, demonstrating that as the metabolic network becomes denser, the perturbation response diminishes—a trend observed commonly in the models. To confirm the significance of cofactors and network structure, we constructed a simplified metabolic network model, underscoring their importance. By identifying the structural determinants of responsiveness, our findings offer implications for bacterial physiology, the evolution of metabolic networks, and the design principles for robust artificial metabolism in synthetic biology and bioengineering.
Pragmatic acts of humour in family discourse in selected Maryam Apaokagi's comedy skits
Authors: Osisanwo Ayo , Atoloye Lekan , Akintaro Seun
Published: June 2024

Humour plays a crucial role in family discourse as it fosters emotional connection, diffuses tension, and promotes open communication by providing a light-hearted and relatable atmosphere. Extant studies on family discourse have focused on (im)politeness strategies and pragmatic markers. However, scant attention has been paid to the communicative functions of humour in family discourse. This study was, therefore, designed to investigate humour in Maryam Apaokagi’s comedy skits, to identify the types, their pragmatic functions, and how they contribute to the overall meaning of the discourse. Jacob Mey’s Pragmatic Acts Theory served as the theoretical framework. Data for the study comprised eight selected Maryam Apaokagi’s comedy skits, produced in Nigeria. The selection is based on their humorous reflections of family issues and subjected to pragmatic analysis. Findings reveal that pragmatic acts exist in four interlocutory contexts among family members: couple (husband-wife) relationship; sibling(s)-relationship; mother-child relationship; and distant-family relationship. The contexts are indexed by eight pragmatic acts and functions which underpin expressions of humour: warning to threaten the husband, promising to raise hopes, requesting to make a mockery of the elder brother, ordering to deliberately disrespect the elder sister, questioning to persuade and apologise indirectly, scolding to condemn a child’s inappropriate actions, exaggerating to boast and show off, speculating to impress the mother and indict the child. Employed with wit to avoid serious conflicts, these humorous acts were largely foregrounded by conversational, psychological and physical acts, and underscored by such contextual factors as inference, reference, relevance, and shared situation knowledge to humorously depict how family issues are variously handled.
Neurological phenotypes and treatment outcomes in Eagle syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hassani Melika , Grønlund Elisabeth Waldemar , Albrechtsen Simon Sander , Kondziella Daniel
Published: June 2024

Background

Eagle syndrome is caused by an elongated styloid process affecting carotid arteries and cranial nerves. Pain, dysphagia, tinnitus, paresthesia (classic subtype), and neurovascular events (vascular subtype) may be triggered by head movements or arise spontaneously. However, Eagle syndrome remains underappreciated in the neurological community. We aimed to determine the most common neurological and non-neurological clinical presentations in patients with Eagle syndrome and to assess the clinical outcome post-surgical resection in comparison to non-surgical therapies.

Methodology

We conducted a systematic review of patient-level data on adults with Eagle syndrome, following PRISMA guidelines. We extracted data on demographics, presenting symptoms, neurological deficits, radiological findings, and treatments, including outcomes and complications, from studies in multiple indexing databases published between 2000 and 2023. The study protocol is registered with PROSPERO.

Results

In total, 285 studies met inclusion criteria, including 497 patients with Eagle syndrome (mean age 47.3 years; 49.8% female). Classical Eagle (370 patients, 74.5%) was more frequent than vascular Eagle syndrome (117 patients, 23.5%, p < 0.0001). Six patients (1.2%) presented with both variants and the subvariant for four patients (0.8%) was unknown. There was a male preponderance (70.1% male) in the vascular subtype. A history of tonsillectomy was more frequent in classic (48/153 cases) than in vascular (2/33 cases) Eagle syndrome (Odds Ratio 5.2, 95% CI [1.2–22.4]; p = 0.028). By contrast, cervical movements as trigger factors were more prevalent in vascular (12/33 cases) than in classic (7/153 cases) Eagle syndrome (Odds Ratio 7.95, 95% CI [2.9–21.7]; p = 0.0001). Headache and Horner syndrome were more frequent in vascular Eagle syndrome and dysphagia and neck pain more prominent in classic Eagle syndrome (all p < 0.01). Surgically treated patients achieved overall better outcomes than medically treated ones: Eighty-one (65.9%) of 123 medically treated patients experienced improvement or complete resolution, while the same applied to 313 (97.8%) of 320 surgical patients (Odds Ratio 1.49, 95% CI [1.1–2.0]; p = 0.016).

Conclusions

Eagle syndrome is underdiagnosed with potentially serious neurovascular complications, including ischemic stroke. Surgical treatment achieves better outcomes than conservative management. Although traditionally the domain of otorhinolaryngologist, neurologist should include this syndrome in differential diagnostic considerations because of the varied neurological presentations that are amenable to effective treatment.
Microbiota based personalized nutrition improves hyperglycaemia and hypertension parameters and reduces inflammation: a prospective, open label, controlled, randomized, comparative, proof of concept study
Authors: Kallapura Gopalakrishna , Prakash Anthony Surya , Sankaran Kumar , Manjappa Prabhath , Chaudhary Prayagraj , Ambhore Sanjay , Dhar Debojyoti
Published: June 2024

Background

Recent studies suggest that gut microbiota composition, abundance and diversity can influence many chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Modulating gut microbiota through targeted nutrition can provide beneficial effects leading to the concept of personalized nutrition for health improvement. In this prospective clinical trial, we evaluated the impact of a microbiome-based targeted personalized diet on hyperglycaemic and hyperlipidaemic individuals. Specifically, BugSpeaks®-a microbiome profile test that profiles microbiota using next generation sequencing and provides personalized nutritional recommendation based on the individual microbiota profile was evaluated.

Methods

A total of 30 participants with type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidaemia were recruited for this study. The microbiome profile of the 15 participants (test arm) was evaluated using whole genome shotgun metagenomics and personalized nutritional recommendations based on their microbiota profile were provided. The remaining 15 participants (control arm) were provided with diabetic nutritional guidance for 3 months. Clinical and anthropometric parameters such as HbA1c, systolic/diastolic pressure, c-reactive protein levels and microbiota composition were measured and compared during the study.

Results

The test arm (microbiome-based nutrition) showed a statistically significant decrease in HbA1c level from 8.30 (95% confidence interval (CI), [7.74–8.85]) to 6.67 (95% CI [6.2–7.05]), p < 0.001 after 90 days. The test arm also showed a 5% decline in the systolic pressure whereas the control arm showed a 7% increase. Incidentally, a sub-cohort of the test arm of patients with >130 mm Hg systolic pressure showed a statistically significant decrease of systolic pressure by 14%. Interestingly, CRP level was also found to drop by 19.5%. Alpha diversity measures showed a significant increase in Shannon diversity measure (p < 0.05), after the microbiome-based personalized dietary intervention. The intervention led to a minimum two-fold (Log2 fold change increase in species like Phascolarctobacterium succinatutens, Bifidobacterium angulatum, and Levilactobacillus brevis which might have a beneficial role in the current context and a similar decrease in species like Alistipes finegoldii, and Sutterella faecalis which have been earlier shown to have some negative effects in the host. Overall, the study indicated a net positive impact of the microbiota based personalized dietary regime on the gut microbiome and correlated clinical parameters.
Shoulder mobility and strength impairments in patients with rotator cuff related shoulder pain: a systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Manoso-Hernando Daniel , Bailón-Cerezo Javier , Angulo-Díaz-Parreño Santiago , Reina-Varona Álvaro , Elizagaray-García Ignacio , Gil-Martínez Alfonso
Published: June 2024

Background

The methods previously proposed in the literature to assess patients with rotator cuff related shoulder pain, based on special orthopedic tests to precisely identify the structure causing the shoulder symptoms have been recently challenged. This opens the possibility of a different way of physical examination.

Objective

To analyze the differences in shoulder range of motion, strength and thoracic kyphosis between rotator cuff related shoulder pain patients and an asymptomatic group.

Method

The protocol of the present research was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Review (PROSPERO) (registration number CRD42021258924). Database search of observational studies was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, WOS and CINHAL until July 2023, which assessed shoulder or neck neuro-musculoskeletal non-invasive physical examination compared to an asymptomatic group. Two investigators assessed eligibility and study quality. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the methodology quality.

Results

Eight studies (N = 604) were selected for the quantitative analysis. Meta-analysis showed statistical differences with large effect for shoulder flexion (I2 = 91.7%, p < 0.01, HG = −1.30), external rotation (I2 = 83.2%, p < 0.01, HG = −1.16) and internal rotation range of motion (I2 = 0%, p < 0.01, HG = −1.32). Regarding to shoulder strength; only internal rotation strength showed statistical differences with small effect (I2 = 42.8%, p < 0.05, HG = −0.3).

Conclusions

There is moderate to strong evidence that patients with rotator cuff related shoulder pain present less shoulder flexion, internal and external rotation range of motion and less internal rotation strength than asymptomatic individuals.
Green Synthesis: An Alternative Sustainable Route for Nanotechology
Authors: Niveditha Mannem , Shelar Vijay R , B.M. Bhalerao
Published: June 2024

With the advancements and technological innovation in the past few decades, there has been an exponential increase in the nanotechnology industry. It has come to become one of the most exciting forefront fields in the 21st century. Nanotechnology is the science that deals with particulate matter at nanoscale (1-100 nm). Nanomaterials at nanoscale tend to exhibit unique properties than their bulk counterparts. The rising demand for nanoparticles and nano based products also brings in huge concerns, as the chemical and physical methods for synthesis of nanoparticles require a lot of investment and also involve toxic agents, which result it some serious after effects hazardous to both environment and the living entities.  This is when green chemistry comes into the picture, green synthesis approach was found to counter the problems posed by the previous synthesis methods. The mechanism involved in green synthesis, factors affecting the synthesis and the popular techniques used in characterization of the synthesized nanoparticles are discussed in this review paper. Green synthesis has the potential to be an effective approach in minimizing the risks encountered in the traditional methods of synthesis, yet the field is new and more is to be explored and continuous research with follow up is required to adopt green synthesis at a commercial level.
Fabrication and surface characterization of electrosprayed poly(L‐lactide) microspheres
Authors: Hu Changmin , Zhao Jingwen , Cui Wenguo
Published: September 2012

Electrospraying is a one‐step technique for fabricating polymeric microspheres/nanospheres, and the surface characterization of polymeric microspheres fabricated under high voltage is different from an emulsion method. In this study, biodegradable poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA) microspheres were successfully fabricated by electrospraying, and electrospraying parameters were used to investigate the size and ζ potential of the electrosprayed PLLA microspheres. The results demonstrate that electrospraying was a one‐step method for fabricating monodispersed PLLA microspheres with a size of 1.92 ± 0.35 μm and that the enrichment of methyl groups on the surface of the microspheres contributed to the strong hydrophobicity of electrosprayed PLLA microspheres. Of all the electrospraying parameters investigated, the size and ζ potential of the PLLA microspheres increased with increasing solution concentration and flow rate and decreased with increasing injection voltage and collecting distance. The results provide a theoretical basis for preparing electrosprayed polymeric microspheres as drug carriers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Structural characterization of alpha methyl styrene‐butyl acrylate‐grafted polyetheretherketone films
Authors: Gautam Deepti , Ikram Saiqa , Gupta Bhuvanesh
Published: September 2012

Radiation‐induced graft copolymerization of alpha methyl styrene (AMS)‐butyl acrylate (BA) mixture onto poly(etheretherketone) (PEEK) was carried out to develop films of varying copolymer compositions. The characterization of films was carried out with fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The presence of AMS and BA units within the film matrix was confirmed by FTIR. The intensity of the characteristic peaks for AMS and BA increased with the increasing grafted component in the films. The crystallinity of the films as observed from DSC and XRD decreased with the increasing graft levels. On the other hand, the melting temperature of the base polymer was almost unaffected by irradiation and the grafting process. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the grafted film increased as compared to the virgin PEEK. Ungrafted film showed a stable thermogram up to ∼500°C. However, the grafting introduced a new decomposition range in the copolymer, due to the presence of the AMS/BA. AFM images showed the formation of domains on the grafted PEEK film surface. The SEM also showed domain formation of the grafted component within the PEEK matrix. However, the fracture analysis did not show any prominent phase separation. Mechanical characterization of films in terms of tensile strength, elongation, and modulus was also carried out. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Cellulose nanocrystals extracted from okra fibers in PVA nanocomposites
Authors: Fortunati E. , Puglia D. , Monti M. , Santulli C. , Maniruzzaman M. , Kenny J. M.
Published: September 2012

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were extracted from okra bahmia (Abelmoschus Esculentus) bast fibers and inserted in different tenors (1, 2, 5, and 10 wt %) as the reinforcement of a poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix. The extraction of cellulose was carried out in a two‐step procedure: the first chemical treatment led to the production of holocellulose by the gradual removal of lignin, while the subsequent sulphuric acid hydrolysis process allowed obtaining cellulose nanocrystals in an aqueous suspension. The dispersion of CNC in the composite appeared effective at low cellulose content (1 wt %), while it presented more problems for higher contents. However, a 5 wt % cellulose content proved ideal to promote a direct mechanical interaction between the PVA and cellulose structures. Thermal analysis demonstrated that the presence of okra did not have a large effect on glass transition temperature, while it sensibly modified the melting temperature of the PVA matrix, as well as the crystallization temperature, due to the nucleating action of the nanofillers. FTIR spectroscopy performed during the exposure to UV light underlined that no oxidative reactions occur after a short‐time exposure and that a longer irradiation times are required to produce oxidation on neat matrix and PVA/CNC nanocomposites. The results confirmed that the presence of CNC does not affect the stability of the neat PVA matrix to the photodegradation after UV irradiation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Asymmetric Organocatalytic Addition Reactions of Maleimides: A Promising Approach Towards the Synthesis of Chiral Succinimide Derivatives
Authors: Chauhan Pankaj , Kaur Jasneet , Chimni Swapandeep Singh
Published: September 2012

Recent progress in asymmetric organocatalysis has led to the development of several asymmetric transformations that employ various substrates. Among these substrates, maleimides have emerged as excellent Michael acceptors, dienophiles, and dipolarophiles. In this Focus Review we highlight the advances in the asymmetric synthesis of succinimide derivatives through asymmetric organocatalytic addition reactions of maleimides.
Molecular Characterisation of Gastrointestinal Microbiota of Children With Autism (With and Without Gastrointestinal Dysfunction) and Their Neurotypical Siblings
Authors: Gondalia Shakuntla V. , Palombo Enzo A. , Knowles Simon R. , Cox Stephen B. , Meyer Denny , Austin David W.
Published: September 2012

Many children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) suffer from gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhoea, constipation and abdominal pain. This has stimulated investigations into possible abnormalities of intestinal microbiota in autistic patients. Therefore, we designed this study to identify differences (and/or similarities) in the microbiota of children with autism (without gastrointestinal dysfunction: n = 23; with gastrointestinal dysfunction: n = 28) and their neurotypical siblings (n = 53) who share a similar environment using bacterial tag‐encoded FLX amplicon pyrosequencing. Regardless of the diagnosis and sociodemographic characteristics, overall, Firmicutes (70%), Bacteroidetes (20%) and Proteobacteria (4%) were the most dominant phyla in samples. Results did not indicate clinically meaningful differences between groups. The data do not support the hypothesis that the gastrointestinal microbiota of children with ASD plays a role in the symptomatology of ASD. Other explanations for the gastrointestinal dysfunction in this population should be considered including elevated anxiety and self‐restricted diets. Autism Res 2012, 5: 419–427. © 2012 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Organ engineering – combining stem cells, biomaterials, and bioreactors to produce bioengineered organs for transplantation
Authors: Murphy Sean Vincent , Atala Anthony
Published: September 2012

Often the only treatment available for patients suffering from diseased and injured organs is whole organ transplant. However, there is a severe shortage of donor organs for transplantation. The goal of organ engineering is to construct biological substitutes that will restore and maintain normal function in diseased and injured tissues. Recent progress in stem cell biology, biomaterials, and processes such as organ decellularization and electrospinning has resulted in the generation of bioengineered blood vessels, heart valves, livers, kidneys, bladders, and airways. Future advances that may have a significant impact for the field include safe methods to reprogram a patient's own cells to directly differentiate into functional replacement cell types. The subsequent combination of these cells with natural, synthetic and/or decellularized organ materials to generate functional tissue substitutes is a real possibility. This essay reviews the current progress, developments, and challenges facing researchers in their goal to create replacement tissues and organs for patients.
In vitro evaluation of the fermentation properties and potential prebiotic activity of caprine cheese whey oligosaccharides in batch culture systems
Authors: Oliveira Diana L. , Costabile Adele , Wilbey R. Andrew , Grandison Alistair S. , Duarte Luis C. , Roseiro Luisa B.
Published: September 2012

The prebiotic effect of oligosaccharides recovered and purified from caprine whey, was evaluated by in vitro fermentation under anaerobic conditions using batch cultures at 37°C with human faeces. Effects on key gut bacterial groups were monitored over 24 h by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), which was used to determine a quantitative prebiotic index score. Production of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as fermentation end products was analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Growth of Bifidobacterium spp was significantly higher (P ≥ 0.05) with the purified oligosaccharides compared to the negative control. Lactic and propionic acids were the main SCFAs produced. Antimicrobial activity of the oligosaccharides was also tested, revealing no inhibition though a decrease in Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli growth. These findings indicate that naturally extracted oligosaccharides from caprine whey could be used as new and valuable source of prebiotics. © 2012 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Enhanced In Vitro Antitumor Efficacy and Strong Anti‐Cell‐Migration Activity of a Hydroxycamptothecin‐Encapsulated Magnetic Nanovehicle
Authors: Ding Guo‐Bin , Liu Hui‐Ying , Lv Yan‐Yun , Liu Xiao‐Feng , Guo Yi , Sun Chang‐Kai , Xu Li
Published: September 2012

A 10‐hydroxycamptothecin‐encapsulated magnetic nanovehicle (HEMN) was fabricated by coencapsulating Fe3O4 nanoparticles and 10‐hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) into a micelle core self‐assembled from the amphiphilic copolymer methoxy‐poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) through a facile dialysis method. A satisfactory drug‐loading content of (9.03±0.67) % and a relatively high encapsulation efficiency of (53.52±6.46) % were achieved. In vitro drug release was performed by membrane dialysis and a pH‐dependent release behavior was observed. In comparison with free HCPT dissolved in dimethylsulfoxide, HEMNs showed a greatly improved in vitro antitumor efficacy against three different human cancer cell lines—HeLa, A549, and HepG2—and lower IC50 values were measured. The mechanism of cell death was investigated, and it was clearly demonstrated that the apoptosis process was triggered. An in vitro wound‐healing assay and a transwell assay indicated that HEMNs exerted much stronger activity in inhibiting HeLa cell migration. The cellular uptake of HEMNs in a desired area can be significantly enhanced by an external magnetic field. These results demonstrate HCPT‐encapsulated magnetic nanovehicles might have important potential in clinical applications for inhibiting tumor metastasis and for targeted drug delivery.
Pickering Emulsion Stabilized by Catalytic Polyoxometalate Nanoparticles: A New Effective Medium for Oxidation Reactions
Authors: Leclercq Loïc , Mouret Adrien , Proust Anna , Schmitt Véronique , Bauduin Pierre , Aubry Jean‐Marie , Nardello‐Rataj Véronique
Published: September 2012

Decyl‐, dodecyl‐, and tetradecyltrimethylammonium cations were combined with the catalytic polyoxometalate [PW12O40]3− anion to give spherical and monodisperse nanoparticles that are able to stabilize emulsions in the presence of water and an aromatic solvent. This triphasic liquid/solid/liquid system, based on a catalytic surfactant, is particularly efficient as a reaction medium for epoxidation reactions that involve hydrogen peroxide. The reactions proceed at competitive rates with straightforward separation of the phases by centrifugation. Such catalytic “Pickering” emulsions combine the advantages of heterogeneous catalysis and biphasic catalysis without the drawbacks (e.g., catalyst leaching or separation time).
One‐Step Hydrothermal Synthesis of Carboxyl‐Functionalized Upconversion Phosphors for Bioapplications
Authors: Yang Jianping , Shen Dengke , Li Xiaomin , Li Wei , Fang Yin , Wei Yong , Yao Chi , Tu Bo , Zhang Fan , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: September 2012

In this paper, we report a facile one‐step hydrothermal method to synthesize phase‐, size‐, and shape‐controlled carboxyl‐functionalized rare‐earth fluorescence upconversion phosphors by using a small‐molecule binary acid, such as malonic acid, oxalic acid, succinic acid, or tartaric acid as capping agent. The crystals, from nano‐ to microstructures with diverse shapes that include nanospheres, microrods, hexagonal prisms, microtubes, microdisks, polygonal columns, and hexagonal tablets, can be obtained with different reaction times, reaction temperatures, molar ratios of capping agent to sodium hydroxide, and by varying the binary acids. Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetric analysis, and upconversion luminescence spectra measurements indicate that the synthesized NaYF4:Yb/Er products with hydrophilic carboxyl‐functionalized surface offer efficient upconversion luminescent performance. Furthermore, the antibody/secondary antibody conjugation can be realized by the carboxyl‐functionalized surfaces of the upconversion phosphors, thus indicating the potential bioapplications of these kinds of materials.
Multiple stressor effects of predation by rotifers and herbicide pollution on different Chlamydomonas strains and potential impacts on population dynamics
Authors: Fischer Beat B. , Roffler Severin , Eggen Rik I.L.
Published: September 2012

Environmental factors can interact with the effects of chemical pollutants on natural systems by inducing multiple stressor effects in individual organisms as well as by altering selection pressure on tolerant strains in heterogeneous populations. Predation is a stressful environmental factor relevant for many species. Therefore, the impact of predation by the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus on tolerance of eight genetically different strains of the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to simultaneous exposure to each of the three herbicides (diuron, paraquat, and S-metolachlor) was tested. Interactions of combined stressors were analyzed based on the independent action model; additive, synergistic, and antagonistic effects of the combined exposure could be detected depending on the herbicide and strain tested. If cultures were acclimated (pre-exposed) to one stressor, tolerance to the second stressor could be increased. This indicates that physiological changes can induce cotolerance of predation-exposed algae to herbicides and of herbicide-treated algae to predation depending on the combination of stressors. The strain-specific differences in multiple stressor effects also changed the correlation of strains' tolerances to individual stressors determined during combined and single-stressor exposure. Changes in cotolerance to stressors affect selection pressure and population dynamics during long-term exposure. This shows that predation stress can have adverse effects on the toxicity of chemical pollutants to microalgae on the organism and population levels. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012; 31: 2832–2840. © 2012 SETAC
Partial atomic charges and their impact on the free energy of solvation
Authors: Jämbeck Joakim P. M. , Mocci Francesca , Lyubartsev Alexander P. , Laaksonen Aatto
Published: September 2012

Free energies of solvation (ΔG) in water andn‐octanol have been computed for common drug molecules by molecular dynamics simulations with an additive fixed‐charge force field. The impact of the electrostatic interactions was investigated by computing the partial atomic charges with four methods that all fit the charges from the quantum mechanically determined electrostatic potential (ESP). Due to the redistribution of electron density that occurs when molecules are transferred from gas phase to condensed phase, the polarization impact was also investigated. By computing the partial atomic charges with the solutes placed in a conductor‐like continuum, the charges were effectively polarized to take the polarization effects into account. No polarization correction term or similar was considered, only the partial atomic charges. Results show that free energies are very sensitive to the choice of atomic charges and that ΔGcan differ by severalkBTdepending on the charge computing method. Inclusion of polarization effects makes the solutes too hydrophilic with most methods andin vacuocharges make the solutes too hydrophobic. The restrained‐ESP methods together with effectively polarized charges perform well in our test set and also when applied to a larger set of molecules. The effect of water models is also highlighted and shows that the conclusions drawn are valid for different three‐point models. Partitioning between an aqueous and a hydrophobic phase is also described better if the two environment's polarization is taken into account, but again the results are sensitive to the charge calculation method. Overall, the results presented here show that effectively polarized charges can improve the description of solvating a drug‐like molecule in a solvent and that the choice of partial atomic charges is crucial to ensure that molecular simulations produce reliable results. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Our journey to zero: Reducing serious safety events by over 70% through high‐reliability techniques and workforce engagement
Authors: Hilliard Mary Anne , Sczudlo Raymond , Scafidi Lisa , Cady Rebecca , Villard Alissa , Shah Rahul
Published: September 2012

The techniques and best practices used to achieve a successful safety culture transformation and drive down the incidence of serious safety events are described. The Safety Transformation Initiative at Children's National resulted in national and local recognition, a financial savings of an imputed $35 million, and a greater than 70% decrease in the serious safety event rate over a 3‐year period (July 1, 2008–June 30, 2011). The results were achieved during a time of significant financial constraints and with limited resources. A blueprint detailing specifics of the implementation is presented to assist others in achieving similar results. Our safety transformation was initiated in our fiscal year 2009 as part of a 3‐year corporate goal. The work is continuing and we aspire to virtually eliminate serious safety events by 2016.
Fostering support for work floor energy conservation policies: Accounting for privacy concerns
Authors: Bolderdijk J. W. , Steg L. , Postmes T.
Published: September 2012

The advent of electronic monitoring technology (e.g., smart meters and in‐car GPS devices) poses the opportunity for organizations to promote energy conservation behaviors among their employees through individual feedback and incentives. Although electronic monitoring thus can help in reducing the organization's environmental footprint, organizations may be reluctant to take such steps because of privacy concerns that may arise among those whose behavior is being monitored. This paper examines the roots of such privacy concerns. On the basis of literature on motivated cognition, we expect that people may sometimes construe privacy concerns in a self‐serving fashion. Three empirical studies support this assumption and suggest an interesting and potentially controversial conclusion: electronic monitoring in itself may not necessarily raise concerns about privacy, except when people anticipate that monitoring will lead to negative consequences for them personally. Thus, this paper offers clear policy advice for organizations aiming to implement work floor energy conservation policies that rely on electronic monitoring of employee behavior: communicating the individual benefits for employees may alleviate employee privacy concerns and boost organizational support. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term survival in thymic epithelial tumors: A single‐center experience from China
Authors: Shen Shengping , Ai Xinghao , Lu Shun
Published: September 2012

Background

To evaluate long‐term survival in thymic epithelial tumors (TETs), we present our experiences at a single institution in China.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis including 115 patients with TETs from 2001 to 2006. Histological diagnosis was completed based on the new WHO classification system. A univariate and multivariate survival analysis was performed, which included myasthenia gravis (MG), WHO histological type, Masaoka stage, completeness of resection, and adjuvant radiotherapy (RT).

Results

WHO histological subtype was closely correlated with that of Masaoka stage. The overall median survival time was 84.4 months and the 7‐year survival rate was 78%. In the univariate analysis, three prognostic factors, including WHO histology type, Masaoka stage and complete resection, were statistically significant. In the analysis of the cases with complete resection, adjuvant RT did not show obvious survival benefit. In the multivariate analysis, Masaoka stage was the only independent factor that predicted long‐time survival.

Conclusions

Thymic carcinoma should be regarded as a different category of the disease due to its aggressive and poorer prognosis. Complete resection of the tumor and Masaoka stage I and II were found to contribute to a better survival. Adjuvant RT is not recommended for patients with complete resection in thymomas. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:167–172. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.