bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strontium Chemistry with Silicone Grease
Authors: Harder Sjoerd , Freitag Benjamin , Stegner Philipp , Pahl Jürgen , Naglav Dominik
Published: August 2015

Reaction of Sr(2‐Me2N‐α‐Me3Si‐benzyl)2·(THF)2 with one equivalent of DIPP(H)N–BH–N(H)DIPP (NBN–H2, DIPP = 2,6‐iPr‐phenyl) gave the strontium bora‐amidinate complex Sr(NBN)·(THF)4. Traces of silicone grease, however, can change the course of the reaction completely and gave the product {Sr[(DIPP)NSiMe2O]·THF}4 (1) in a ca. 25 % yield. Complex 1 is a S4 symmetric cluster with a Sr4O4 core and four chelating amide side arms. From the mother liquor a second product could be isolated: the dimeric cluster [Sr(NBN‐SiMe2OSiMe2O)·THF]2 (2). Whereas the synthesis of complex 2 is not reproducible, complex 1 can be prepared by deliberate addition of silicone grease. Also, it was found that Sr[N(SiMe3)2]2, 2,6‐diisopropylphenyl and cyclic hexamethyltrisiloxane can be used as the reagents. For reactions with silicone grease, a mechanism, in which silicone precoordinates the central Sr atom followed by nucleophilic Si–O bond fission is proposed.
Assessment of the Strength of Energetic Compounds Through the Trauzl Lead Block Expansions Using Their Molecular Structures
Authors: Jafari Mohammad , Kamalvand Mohammad , Keshavarz Mohammad Hossein , Farrashi Salman
Published: August 2015

The strength of energetic materials can be expressed as the expansion of the cavity of a standard lead block through explosion of the sample. A new method is introduced for prediction of the Trauzl lead block expansions for some of the important classes of pure and mixture of energetic compounds, with the general formula of CaHbNcOd. This model needs only the molecular structure of the energetic materials without using the detonation characteristics of different explosives. The model uses the ratios of the number of carbon to oxygen (a/d) and hydrogen to oxygen atoms (b/d). The effects of intra‐ and intermolecular interactions are applied to the model by assignment of some correcting parameters upon considering certain molecular fragments. This model gives more reliable results with respect to three of the best available methods.
Negative Fine‐Needle Aspiration in Patients with Goiter: Should We Doubt It?
Authors: Mekel Michal , Gilshtein Hayim , Al‐Kurd Abbas , Bishara Bishara , Krausz Michael M. , Freund Herbert R. , Kluger Yoram , Eid Ahmed , Mazeh Haggi
Published: August 2015

Background

Epidemiologic studies demonstrated higher incidence of thyroid cancer in patients with multinodular goiters compared to the general population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of finding significant thyroid cancer in patients undergoing thyroidectomy for presumed benign disease.

Methods

The records of 273 patients operated for indications other than cancer or indeterminate cytology were reviewed and analyzed.

Results

202 (74 %) patients had a preoperative fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) performed. FNA was benign in 96 % of patients and non‐diagnostic in 4 %. Malignancy was unexpectedly found in 50 (19 %) patients. Papillary carcinoma constituted 94 % of cancers and 86 % of cancers were incidental microcarcinomas. Only 7 (2.6 %) patients of the entire cohort had tumors greater than 1 cm, of those only 3 had a previous benign FNA (false‐negative rate 1.5 %).

Conclusions

The rate of significant thyroid cancer found unexpectedly in resected goiters is extremely low. A negative FNA excludes significant cancer with near certainty.
Augmented Reality Guidance for the Resection of Missing Colorectal Liver Metastases: An Initial Experience
Authors: Ntourakis Dimitrios , Memeo Ricardo , Soler Luc , Marescaux Jacques , Mutter Didier , Pessaux Patrick
Published: August 2015

Background

Modern chemotherapy achieves the shrinking of colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM) to such extent that they may disappear from radiological imaging. Disappearing CRLM rarely represents a complete pathological remission and have an important risk of recurrence. Augmented reality (AR) consists in the fusion of real‐time patient images with a computer‐generated 3D virtual patient model created from pre‐operative medical imaging. The aim of this prospective pilot study is to investigate the potential of AR navigation as a tool to help locate and surgically resect missing CRLM.

Methods

A 3D virtual anatomical model was created from thoracoabdominal CT‐scans using customary software (VR RENDER®, IRCAD). The virtual model was superimposed to the operative field using an Exoscope (VITOM®, Karl Storz, Tüttlingen, Germany). Virtual and real images were manually registered in real‐time using a video mixer, based on external anatomical landmarks with an estimated accuracy of 5 mm. This modality was tested in three patients, with four missing CRLM that had sizes from 12 to 24 mm, undergoing laparotomy after receiving pre‐operative oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy.

Results

AR display and fine registration was performed within 6 min. AR helped detect all four missing CRLM, and guided their resection. In all cases the planned security margin of 1 cm was clear and resections were confirmed to be R0 by pathology. There was no postoperative major morbidity or mortality. No local recurrence occurred in the follow‐up period of 6–22 months.

Conclusions

This initial experience suggests that AR may be a helpful navigation tool for the resection of missing CRLM.
The Genome-Wide Influence on Human BMI Depends on Physical Activity, Life Course, and Historical Period
Authors: Guo Guang , Liu Hexuan , Wang Ling , Shen Haipeng , Hu Wen
Published: August 2015

In this analysis, guided by an evolutionary framework, we investigate how the human genome as a whole interacts with historical period, age, and physical activity to influence body mass index (BMI). The genomic influence is estimated by (1) heritability or the proportion of variance in BMI explained by genome-wide genotype data, and (2) the random effects or the best linear unbiased predictors (BLUPs) of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data on BMI. Data were used from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) in the United States. The study was initiated in 1948, and the obesity data were collected repeatedly over the subsequent decades. The analyses draw analysis samples from a pool of >8,000 individuals in the FHS. The hypothesis testing based on Pitman test, permutation Pitman test, F test, and permutation F test produces three sets of significant findings. First, the genomic influence on BMI is substantially larger after the mid-1980s than in the few decades before the mid-1980s within each age group of 21–40, 41–50, 51–60, and >60. Second, the genomic influence on BMI weakens as one ages across the life course, or the genomic influence on BMI tends to be more important during reproductive ages than after reproductive ages within each of the two historical periods. Third, within the age group of 21–50 and not in the age group of >50, the genomic influence on BMI among physically active individuals is substantially smaller than the influence on those who are not physically active. In summary, this study provides evidence that the influence of human genome as a whole on obesity depends on historical period, age, and level of physical activity.
Crystal structure of family 4 uracil–DNA glycosylase fromSulfolobus tokodaii and a function of tyrosine 170 in DNA binding
Authors: Kawai Akito , Higuchi Shigesada , Tsunoda Masaru , Nakamura Kazuo T. , Yamagata Yuriko , Miyamoto Shuichi
Published: August 2015

Uracil–DNA glycosylases (UDGs) excise uracil from DNA by catalyzing theN‐glycosidic bond hydrolysis. Here we report the first crystal structures of an archaeal UDG (stoUDG). Compared with other UDGs,stoUDG has a different structure of the leucine‐intercalation loop, which is important for DNA binding. ThestoUDG–DNA complex model indicated that Leu169, Tyr170, and Asn171 in the loop are involved in DNA intercalation. Mutational analysis showed that Tyr170 is critical for substrate DNA recognition. These results indicate that Tyr170 occupies the intercalation site formed after the structural change of the leucine‐intercalation loop required for the catalysis.
Biophysical characterization of the interaction between FAAP20‐UBZ4 domain and Rev1‐BRCT domain
Authors: Lim Kyungeun , Lee Mi-Kyung , Duong Phuong T.M. , Liu Dinan , Sung Sieun , Choi Byong-Seok
Published: August 2015

FAAP20 (Fanconi anemia‐associated protein 20) is a subunit of the Fanconi anemia (FA) core complex that repairs interstrand cross‐links. To understand the molecular basis for the FA core complex‐mediated recruitment of Rev1 to the DNA lesion, we characterized the interactions among FAAP20‐UBZ4, Rev1‐BRCT, and ubiquitin using NMR. We found that FAAP20‐UBZ4 binds not only ubiquitin but also Rev1‐BRCT. Mapping the protein–protein interactions showed that FAAP20‐UBZ4 has distinct binding surfaces for ubiquitin and Rev1‐BRCT. In addition, the chemical exchange patterns indicated that the interaction between FAAP20‐UBZ4 and ubiquitin might enhance the binding affinity between FAAP20‐UBZ4 and Rev1‐BRCT. These results provide new insight into the Rev1 recognition mechanism by FAAP20.
Association between single nucleotide polymorphisms in MiR219‐1 and MiR137 and susceptibility to schizophrenia in a Chinese population
Authors: Sun Ya-Jun , Yu Ying , Zhu Gao-Ceng , Sun Zhu-Hua , Xu Jian , Cao Jian-Hua , Ge Jian-Xin
Published: August 2015

Schizophrenia is one of the most common mental disorders to severely affect human health worldwide. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within related genes are candidate susceptible factors for the disorder. Rs107822 within MiR219‐1 and rs1625579 within MiR137 were genotyped in 589 cases and 622 controls to investigate the possible association between the loci and schizophrenia in a Chinese population. Our results showed significant association between rs107822 and the disorder in allele (C vs. T: adjusted OR = 0.773, 95%CI = 0.655–0.912), co‐dominant (TC vs. TT: adjusted OR = 0.734, 95%CI = 0.571–0.943; CC vs. TT: adjusted OR = 0.655, 95%CI = 0.459–0.936), dominant (TC + CC vs. TT: adjusted OR = 0.707, 95%CI = 0.559–0.895), and recessive (CC vs. TC + TT: adjusted OR = 0.724, 95%CI = 0.524–0.999) models, respectively. Meanwhile, negative associations were also observed between rs107822 and the disorder in male and female subgroups, and genotype CC of the locus was significantly associated with a lower positive symptom score of PANSS compared to genotype TT carrier in the cases group. However, we didn't observe a significant association between rs1625579 and the disorder. These findings indicate that rs107822 within MiR219‐1 might be involved in pathogenesis of schizophrenia and that genotypes TC, CC and allele C of the locus are protective factors for schizophrenia in a Chinese population.
Prediction and optimization of thinning in automotive sealing cover using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Kakandikar Ganesh M. , Nandedkar Vilas M.
Published: August 2015

Deep drawing is a forming process in which a blank of sheet metal is radially drawn into a forming die by the mechanical action of a punch and converted to required shape. Deep drawing involves complex material flow conditions and force distributions. Radial drawing stresses and tangential compressive stresses are induced in flange region due to the material retention property. These compressive stresses result in wrinkling phenomenon in flange region. Normally blank holder is applied for restricting wrinkles. Tensile stresses in radial direction initiate thinning in the wall region of cup. The thinning results into cracking or fracture. The finite element method is widely applied worldwide to simulate the deep drawing process. For real-life simulations of deep drawing process an accurate numerical model, as well as an accurate description of material behavior and contact conditions, is necessary. The finite element method is a powerful tool to predict material thinning deformations before prototypes are made. The proposed innovative methodology combines two techniques for prediction and optimization of thinning in automotive sealing cover. Taguchi design of experiments and analysis of variance has been applied to analyze the influencing process parameters on Thinning. Mathematical relations have been developed to correlate input process parameters and Thinning. Optimization problem has been formulated for thinning and Genetic Algorithm has been applied for optimization. Experimental validation of results proves the applicability of newly proposed approach. The optimized component when manufactured is observed to be safe, no thinning or fracture is observed.
Comparison of Two Successive Earthquake Awareness Campaigns in Israel: Improved Methodology or a Cumulative Effect?
Authors: Shenhar Gilead , Rozenfeld Michael , Radomislensky Irina , Peleg Kobi
Published: August 2015

Objectives

An effective way to reduce casualties from earthquakes is to increase population preparedness. During 2011 to 2013, Israeli authorities executed 3 national-level earthquake awareness campaigns. We aimed to assess the impact of these campaigns on the populace and the ability of the campaigns to produce a cumulative effect throughout the study period.

Methods

Two surveys were conducted 2 weeks after the end of the first campaign and the third campaign in a similar randomly selected representative sample.

Results

Exposure to the campaign proved to be a significant factor in increasing the knowledge of the respondents, giving a knowledge advantage of 1.5 times to respondents exposed to the campaign. However, the period of assessment proved to be an even more significant factor, with knowledge in 2013 being 2.3 times that in 2011. Additionally, a gap of up to 40% between the levels of trust and the perceived responsibility of respective authorities in the times of earthquake was found.

Conclusions

This study found an improvement in public knowledge regarding earthquake preparedness over the 3 years of the study. This may mean that an awareness campaign does not stand by itself, but should be part of an integrated long-term process in order to have a lasting effect on the population. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:74–79)
Targeted Assessment for Prevention of Healthcare-Associated Infections: A New Prioritization Metric
Authors: Soe Minn M. , Gould Carolyn V. , Pollock Daniel , Edwards Jonathan
Published: August 2015

OBJECTIVE

To develop a method for calculating the number of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) that must be prevented to reach a HAI reduction goal and identifying and prioritizing healthcare facilities where the largest reductions can be achieved.

SETTING

Acute care hospitals that report HAI data to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Healthcare Safety Network.

METHODS

The cumulative attributable difference (CAD) is calculated by subtracting a numerical prevention target from an observed number of HAIs. The prevention target is the product of the predicted number of HAIs and a standardized infection ratio goal, which represents a HAI reduction goal. The CAD is a numeric value that if positive is the number of infections to prevent to reach the HAI reduction goal. We calculated the CAD for catheter-associated urinary tract infections for each of the 3,639 hospitals that reported such data to National Healthcare Safety Network in 2013 and ranked the hospitals by their CAD values in descending order.

RESULTS

Of 1,578 hospitals with positive CAD values, preventing 10,040 catheter-associated urinary tract infections at 293 hospitals (19%) with the highest CAD would enable achievement of the national 25% catheter-associated urinary tract infection reduction goal.

CONCLUSION

The CAD is a new metric that facilitates ranking of facilities, and locations within facilities, to prioritize HAI prevention efforts where the greatest impact can be achieved toward a HAI reduction goal.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(12):1379–1384
Lean rats gained more body weight than obese ones from a high-fibre diet
Authors: Li Shaoting , Zhang Cheng , Gu Yingyi , Chen Long , Ou Shiyi , Wang Yong , Peng Xichun
Published: August 2015

There is controversy over previous findings that a high ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteriodetes helps obese animals harvest energy from the diet. To further investigate the relationship between microbial composition and energy harvest, microbial adaptation to diet and time should be considered. In this study, lean and obese rats were successfully induced with low-fat and high-fat diets. An 8-week high soyabean fibre (HSF)-containing diet was then fed to investigate the interaction between the diet and the rats’ gut microbiota, as well as their influence on rats’ growth. Rats’ body weight (BW) was recorded weekly; their plasma lipids and their gut microbiota at week 11, 15 and 19 were analysed. After the consumption of the HSF diet, BW of lean rats increased significantly (P<0·05), but no significant alteration in BW was found in obese rats. The average content of plasma cholesterol was lowered and that of TAG was upgraded in both the groups when fed the HSF diet. There was no significant difference observed at each period between lean and obese rats. In the group of lean rats, the diversity of gut microbiota was elevated strongly (P<0·01), and bacteria from phylum Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were both increased largely (P<0·01); however, the bacterial diversity and composition in obese rats were less altered after the HSF diet control. In conclusion, the increased Firmicutes and Bacteriodetes might relate to lean rats’ higher BW gain; ‘obese microbiota’ could not help the hosts harvest more energy from the HSF diet.
“GLOBALISING SOVEREIGNTY”? PETTIT'S NEO-REPUBLICANISM, INTERNATIONAL LAW, AND INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Thomas Christopher Alexander
Published: August 2015

This article explores Philip Pettit's recent attempts to extend his republican theory of justice and legitimacy to the international sphere in accordance with his ideal of “globalised sovereignty”, with a specific focus on his treatment of international law and institutions. It uses the practice of international law and institutions, with examples largely drawn from international economic law, to test the assumptions built into Pettit's theory. It then considers whether and how some of those assumptions might need to be revised in light of the legal, institutional, and practical constraints of the international domain.
Labor Control and Mobility in Japanese-Controlled Fushun Coalmine (China), 1907−1932
Authors: Teh Limin
Published: August 2015

The prevalence and persistence of labor contractors in China’s mining industry during the first half of the twentieth century is frequently attributed to foreign management’s avoidance of directly managing Chinese laborers. However, in Japanese-controlled Fushun Coalmine, Japanese management’s reliance on labor contractors over four decades (1907−1945) represented an expansion in management’s reach in labor management. In this article, I examine the period of Japanese control (1907−1932), during which Japanese mine managers resorted to bureaucratic means to control labor contractors. Using labor process theorists, particularly Richard Edwards, to read company archival documents, I argue that salient features of the Chinese labor market, namely Chinese migrant labor’s mobility and international competition for Chinese labor, compelled Japanese managers to extend control over labor contractors.
Landschaften as Credit Purveyors—The Example of East Prussia
Authors: Wandschneider Kirsten
Published: August 2015

Landschaften were cooperative mortgage associations that emerged in Prussia after the Seven Years War (1756–1763) to support the Prussian landed nobility. Landschaften issued covered mortgage bonds, called Pfandbriefe, which helped re-capitalize the Prussian estates. Relying on mortgage data for 554 estates, this article provides a detailed look at one of these institutions—the Landschaft of East Prussia. The article offers insights into the self-selection of participants and the distribution of credit. It also gives a quantitative assessment of the economic effects of the Landschaften with respect to ownership patterns and estate size.
Bilateral, independent juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma: case report
Authors: Mørkenborg M-L , Frendø M , Stavngaard T , Von Buchwald C
Published: August 2015

Background:

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is a benign, vascular tumour that primarily occurs in adolescent males. Despite its benign nature, aggressive growth patterns can cause potential life-threatening complications. Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is normally unilateral, originating from the sphenopalatine artery, but bilateral symptoms can occur if a large tumour extends to the contralateral side of the nasopharynx. This paper presents the first reported case of true bilateral extensive juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma involving clinically challenging pre-surgical planning and surgical strategy.

Case report:

A 21-year-old male presented with increasing bilateral nasal obstruction and discharge. Examination revealed tumours bilaterally and imaging demonstrated non-contiguous tumours. Pre-operative angiography showed strictly ipsilateral vascular supplies requiring bilateral embolisation. Radical removal performed as one-step, computer-assisted functional endoscopic sinus surgery was performed. The follow-up period was uncomplicated.

Conclusion:

This case illustrates the importance of suspecting bilateral juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma in patients presenting with bilateral symptoms. Our management, including successful pre-operative planning, enabled one-step total removal of both tumours and rapid patient recovery.
Comparison of caloric reactivity between migraineurs and non-migraineurs
Authors: Foster C A , Pollard C K
Published: August 2015

Objective:

To demonstrate that the elevated prevalence of migraine in patients with vertigo disorders is due to enhanced sensitivity to dizziness, which could cause migraineurs to seek more, or earlier, medical care for vertigo disorders, confounding the ability to show causation.

Methods:

This case–control study investigated whether migraineurs perceive dizziness more intensely than non-migraineurs by comparing caloric responses in migraineurs, non-migraineurs and possible migraineurs. The summed caloric responses in the best responding ear were reviewed.

Results:

The migraine group had higher caloric response values, with a mean of 37.97 degrees per second, which was statistically significant when compared to the values for the possible migraine group (30.74 degrees per second (p< 0.05)) and the non-migraine group (30.70 degrees per second (p< 0.001)).

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that migraineurs experience vestibular stimuli more intensely compared to non-migraineurs, which might explain the association of migraine with vestibular disorders in general.
Litigation trends and costs in otorhinolaryngology
Authors: Metcalfe C W , Muzaffar S J , Coulson C J
Published: August 2015

Background:

Litigation in surgery is increasing and liabilities are becoming unsustainable. This study aimed to analyse trends in claims, and identify areas for potential risk reduction, improved patient safety and a reduction in the number, and cost, of future claims.

Methods:

Ten years of retrospective data on claims in otorhinolaryngology (2003–2013) were obtained from the National Health Service Litigation Authority via a Freedom of Information request. Data were re-entered into a spreadsheet and coded for analysis.

Results:

A total of 1031 claims were identified; of these, 604 were successful and 427 were unsuccessful. Successful claims cost a total of £41 000 000 (mean, £68 000). The most common areas for successful claims were: failure or delay in diagnosis (137 cases), intra-operative problems (116 cases), failure or delay in treatment (66 cases), failure to warn – informed consent issue (54 cases), and inappropriate treatment (47 cases).

Conclusion:

Over half of the claims in ENT relate to the five most common areas of liability. Recent policy changes by the National Health Service Litigation Authority, over the level of information divulged, limits our learning from claims.
The Original Prologue to the Gospel of John
Authors: de Boer Martinus C.
Published: August 2015

John 1.1–5 constitutes the original Prologue to the Fourth Gospel. This passage can still be read as functioning in this way.
Magie und Apokalyptik im Zentrum lukanischer Geschichtsschreibung – Historizität am Beispiel von Apg 13.6–12
Authors: Al-Suadi Soham
Published: August 2015

Acts 13.6–12 has been viewed as highly significant in the debate about the historicity of Acts, since the beginnings of the Pauline mission among the Gentiles are supposed to be rooted here, and the story illustrates Paul's self-understanding as an apostle. On the other hand, signs of literary creativity of the author with regard to the overall theological concept and the controversy about miracles, magic and apocalyptic traditions are clearly seen in this section that seem to contradict the description of the beginnings of the Pauline mission. This paper explores the apparent contradiction in the debate about the historicity of Luke-Acts in general and Acts 13.6–12 in particular, and shows that magic and apocalypticism can be incorporated within the ancient understanding of historical verification.
Reduced contextual effects on visual contrast perception in schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder
Authors: Schallmo M.-P. , Sponheim S. R. , Olman C. A.
Published: August 2015

Background.

The salience of a visual stimulus is often reduced by nearby stimuli, an effect known as surround suppression of perceived contrast, which may help in locating the borders of an object. Weaker surround suppression has been observed in schizophrenia but it is unclear whether this abnormality is present in other mental disorders with similar symptomatology, or is evident in people with genetic liability for schizophrenia.

Method.

By examining surround suppression among subjects with schizophrenia or bipolar affective disorder, their unaffected biological relatives and healthy controls we sought to determine whether diminished surround suppression was specific to schizophrenia, and if subjects with a genetic risk for either disorder would show similar deficits. Measuring perceived contrast in different surround conditions also allowed us to investigate how this suppression depends on the similarity of target and surrounding stimuli.

Results.

Surround suppression was weaker among schizophrenia patients regardless of surround configuration. Subjects with bipolar affective disorder showed an intermediate deficit, with stronger suppression than in schizophrenia but weaker than control subjects. Surround suppression was normal in relatives of both patient groups. Findings support a deficit in broadly tuned (rather than sharply orientation- or direction-selective) suppression mechanisms.

Conclusions.

Weak broadly tuned suppression during visual perception is evident in schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder, consistent with impaired gain control related to the clinical expression of these conditions.
Escaping Heaven and Hell
Authors: LUCK MORGAN
Published: August 2015

Adams (1993) argues that the traditional view that no one in Hell can leave, poses a problem for the theist. This is because, she argues, such a bad state of affairs should be prevented by God. In response, Buckareff and Plug (2005) argue that everyone in Hell can leave. More recently, Matheson (2014) argues that if everyone in Hell can leave, then everyone in Heaven can also leave. However, Matheson provides reason to think that it is impossible for anyone in Heaven to leave. In which case, he argues, no one in Hell can leave either. In this article, I extend this debate, and offer reason to think Matheson's argument is unsound.
Stent graft implantation in an aortic pseudoaneurysm associated with a fractured Cheatham-Platinum stent in aortic coarctation
Authors: Kuhelj Dimitrij , Berden Pavel , Podnar Tomaž
Published: August 2015

We report a case of aortic pseudoaneurysm associated with a fractured bare Cheatham-Platinum stent following stenting for aortic coarctation. These complications were recognised 6 years after the implantation procedure and were successfully managed by percutaneous stent graft implantation. Staged approach for stent dilatation might prevent development of aortic pseudoaneurysms. In addition, careful follow-up is warranted after stenting for aortic coarctation, particularly in patients with recognised aortic wall injury.
Comparative Assessment of Oral Mesenchymal Stem Cells Isolated from Healthy and Diseased Tissues
Authors: Páll Emöke , Florea Adrian , Soriţău Olga , Cenariu Mihai , Petruţiu Adrian S. , Roman Alexandra
Published: August 2015

The aim of the present study was to isolate human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from palatal connective and periodontal granulation tissues and to comparatively evaluate their properties. MSCs were isolated using the explant culture method. Adherence to plastic, specific antigen makeup, multipotent differentiation potential, functionality, and ultrastructural characteristics were investigated. The frequency of colony-forming unit fibroblasts for palatal-derived mesenchymal stem cells (pMSCs) was significantly higher than that of granulation tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (gtMSCs). A significantly higher population doubling time and lower migration potential were recorded for gtMSCs than for pMSCs. Both cell lines were positive for CD105, CD73, CD90, CD44, and CD49f, and negative for CD34, CD45, and HLA-DR, but the level of expression was different. MSCs from both sources were relatively uniform in their ultrastructure. Generally, both cell lines possessed a large, irregular-shaped euchromatic nucleus, and cytoplasm rich in mitochondria, lysosomes, and endoplasmic reticulum. The periphery of the plasma membrane displayed many small filopodia. MSCs from both cell lines were successfully differentiated into osteogenic, adiopogenic, and chondrogenic lineages. Both healthy and diseased tissues may be considered as valuable sources of MSCs for regenerative medicine owing to the high acceptance and fewer complications during harvesting.
Origin of life: LUCA and extracellular membrane vesicles (EMVs)
Authors: Gill S. , Forterre P.
Published: August 2015

Cells from the three domains of life produce extracellular membrane vesicles (EMVs), suggesting that EMV production is an important aspect of cellular physiology. EMVs have been implicated in many aspects of cellular life in all domains, including stress response, toxicity against competing strains, pathogenicity, detoxification and resistance against viral attack. These EMVs represent an important mode of inter-cellular communication by serving as vehicles for transfer of DNA, RNA, proteins and lipids between cells. Here, we review recent progress in the understanding of EMV biology and their various roles. We focus on the role of membrane vesicles in early cellular evolution and how they would have helped shape the nature of the last universal common ancestor. A membrane-protected micro-environment would have been a key to the survival of spontaneous molecular systems and efficient metabolic reactions. Interestingly, the morphology of EMVs is strongly reminiscent of the morphology of some virions. It is thus tempting to make a link between the origin of the first protocell via the formation of vesicles and the origin of viruses.
Moving beyond the “LDL hypothesis”
Authors: Werner Christian , Laufs Ulrich
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Summary: The term “LDL hypothesis” is frequently used to describe the association of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol, LDL-C) and cardiovascular (CV) events. Recent data from genetic studies prove a causal relation between serum LDL-C and CV events. These data are in agreement with mechanistic molecular studies and epidemiology. New randomised clinical trial data show that LDL-C lowering with statins and a non-statin drug, ezetimibe, reduces CV events. We therefore believe that the “LDL-hypothesis” has been proven; the term appears to be outdated and should be replaced by “LDL causality”.
Mit Wissen zu akkurateren Urteilen?
Authors: Rausch Tobias , Matthäi Jacqueline , Artelt Cordula
Published: August 2015

Zusammenfassung. Die vorliegende Studie untersucht, ob und inwieweit das Wissen im Bereich Textverstehen von Deutschlehrkräften der Sekundarstufe mit der Urteilsgüte bei der Einschätzung von Schülerleistungen in diesem Bereich zusammenhängt. Dazu wurde das Text-, Aufgaben- und Strategiewissen von 77 Lehrkräften erhoben und mit Indikatoren der globalen und aufgabenspezifischen Urteilsgüte bei der Einschätzung der Textverstehensleistung von Schülerinnen und Schülern der achten und neunten Klassenstufe korrelativ in Bezug gesetzt. Die Lehrkräfte schätzen ihre Schülerinnen und Schüler relativ akkurat ein und verfügen auch über umfassendes Wissen in den getesteten Bereichen. Es zeigen sich jedoch weder für die Güte von globalen Urteilen noch für die Güte von aufgabenspezifischen Urteilen substanzielle und signifikante Zusammenhänge mit dem Lehrerwissen.
Akademische Selbstwirksamkeit oder fachbezogene Selbstwirksamkeiten?
Authors: Feng Xiaoli , Rost Detlef H. , Zhang Dajun
Published: August 2015

Zusammenfassung. Zielsetzung der Arbeit ist die Klärung der Relevanz der Schulfächer für die Struktur der akademischen Selbstwirksamkeit und für ihre Messung. Zwei chinesische Stichproben wurden mit einem Selbstwirksamkeitsgitter untersucht (Stichprobe A: N = 601 Studierende im Alter von 17 bis 25 Jahren; Stichprobe B: N = 485 Mittelschüler/-schülerinnen im Alter von 14 bis 17 Jahren). In Studie A bestätigten explorative und konfirmatorische Analysen die schulfachbezogene Faktorenstruktur. Differentielle Korrelationen zu schultestähnlichen Leistungsprüfungen belegten die konvergent-diskriminante Validität der fachspezifischen Selbstwirksamkeitserfassung. In Studie B konnte die Schulfachstruktur konfirmatorisch repliziert werden. Die psychometrischen Kennwerte des schulfachbezogenen Selbstwirksamkeitsgitters erwiesen sich als gut.
Children’s Phonological Awareness as a Predictor of Reading and Spelling
Authors: Pfost Maximilian
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Numerous observational and experimental studies have shown that phonological awareness relates to reading and spelling. However, most studies were conducted in English-speaking countries, neglecting the issue of the generalizability of the findings across different orthographies. This meta-analysis focused exclusively on studies from German-speaking countries and explored how measures of phonological awareness relate longitudinally to reading and spelling. It summarized 19 manuscripts reporting the results of 21 independent studies. Results indicated a mean effect size of Zr = 0.318 (r = .308) for the relation between phonological awareness and later reading and spelling. Moderator analyses showed that phonological awareness on the rhyme level was less related to reading and spelling than phonological awareness on the phoneme level. Furthermore, the predictive power of phonological awareness remained substantial even for children beyond the second grade. The findings suggest that research on reading and spelling development should take into account the characteristics of German orthography.
Expression profiling pre‐diabetic mice to uncover drugs with clinical application to type 1 diabetes
Authors: Pang Dimeng , Irvine Katharine M , Mehdi Ahmed M , Thomas Helen E , Harris Mark , Hamilton‐Williams Emma E , Thomas Ranjeny
Published: August 2015

In the NOD mouse model of type 1 diabetes (T1D), genetically identical mice in the same environment develop diabetes at different rates. Similar heterogeneity in the rate of progression to T1D exists in humans, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here, we aimed to discover peripheral blood (PB) genes in NOD mice predicting insulitis severity and rate of progression to diabetes. We then wished to use these genes to mine existing databases to identify drugs effective in diabetes. In a longitudinal study, we analyzed gene expression in PB samples from NOD.CD45.2 mice at 10 weeks of age, then scored pancreatic insulitis at 14 weeks or determined age of diabetes onset. In a multilinear regression model, Tnf and Tgfb mRNA expression in PB predicted insulitis score (R2=0.56, P=0.01). Expression of these genes did not predict age of diabetes onset. However, by expression‐profiling PB genes in 10‐week‐old NOD.CD45.2 mice, we found a signature of upregulated genes that predicted delayed or no diabetes. Major associated pathways included chromatin organization, cellular protein location and regulation of nitrogen compounds and RNA. In a clinical cohort, three of these genes were differentially expressed between first‐degree relatives, T1D patients and controls. Bioinformatic analysis of differentially expressed genes in NOD.CD45.2 PB identified drugs that are predicted to delay or prevent diabetes. Of these drugs, 11 overlapped with drugs predicted to induce a human ‘non‐progressor’ expression profile. These data demonstrate that disease heterogeneity in diabetes‐prone mice can be exploited to mine novel clinical T1D biomarkers and drug targets.
Measurement of the cleavage energy of graphite
Authors: Wang Wen , Dai Shuyang , Li Xide , Yang Jiarui , Srolovitz David J. , Zheng Quanshui
Published: August 2015

The basal plane cleavage energy (CE) of graphite is a key material parameter for understanding many of the unusual properties of graphite, graphene and carbon nanotubes. Nonetheless, a wide range of values for the CE has been reported and no consensus has yet emerged. Here we report the first direct, accurate experimental measurement of the CE of graphite using a novel method based on the self-retraction phenomenon in graphite. The measured value, 0.37±0.01 J m−2for the incommensurate state of bicrystal graphite, is nearly invariant with respect to temperature (22 °C≤T≤198 °C) and bicrystal twist angle, and insensitive to impurities from the atmosphere. The CE for the ideal ABAB graphite stacking, 0.39±0.02 J m−2, is calculated based on a combination of the measured CE and a theoretical calculation. These experimental measurements are also ideal for use in evaluating the efficacy of competing theoretical approaches.
Towards nanoprinting with metals on graphene
Authors: Melinte G. , Moldovan S. , Hirlimann C. , Liu X. , Bégin-Colin S. , Bégin D. , Banhart F. , Pham-Huu C. , Ersen O.
Published: August 2015

Graphene and carbon nanotubes are envisaged as suitable materials for the fabrication of the new generation of nanoelectronics. The controlled patterning of such nanostructures with metal nanoparticles is conditioned by the transfer between a recipient and the surface to pattern. Electromigration under the impact of an applied voltage stands at the base of printing discrete digits at the nanoscale. Here we report the use of carbon nanotubes as nanoreservoirs for iron nanoparticles transfer on few-layer graphene. An initial Joule-induced annealing is required to ensure the control of the mass transfer with the nanotube acting as a ‘pen’ for the writing process. By applying a voltage, the tube filled with metal nanoparticles can deposit metal on the surface of the graphene sheet at precise locations. The reverse transfer of nanoparticles from the graphene surface to the nanotube when changing the voltage polarity opens the way for error corrections.
Efficient expression of full-length antibodies in the cytoplasm of engineered bacteria
Authors: Robinson Michael-Paul , Ke Na , Lobstein Julie , Peterson Cristen , Szkodny Alana , Mansell Thomas J. , Tuckey Corinna , Riggs Paul D. , Colussi Paul A. , Noren Christopher J. , Taron Christopher H. , DeLisa Matthew P. , Berkmen Mehmet
Published: August 2015

Current methods for producing immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in engineered cells often require refolding steps or secretion across one or more biological membranes. Here, we describe a robust expression platform for biosynthesis of full-length IgG antibodies in the Escherichia coli cytoplasm. Synthetic heavy and light chains, both lacking canonical export signals, are expressed in specially engineered E. coli strains that permit formation of stable disulfide bonds within the cytoplasm. IgGs with clinically relevant antigen- and effector-binding activities are readily produced in the E. coli cytoplasm by grafting antigen-specific variable heavy and light domains into a cytoplasmically stable framework and remodelling the fragment crystallizable domain with amino-acid substitutions that promote binding to Fcγ receptors. The resulting cytoplasmic IgGs—named ‘cyclonals’—effectively bypass the potentially rate-limiting steps of membrane translocation and glycosylation.
Correction: Corrigendum: GABA signalling modulates plant growth by directly regulating the activity of plant-specific anion transporters
Authors: Ramesh Sunita A. , Tyerman Stephen D. , Xu Bo , Bose Jayakumar , Kaur Satwinder , Conn Vanessa , Domingos Patricia , Ullah Sana , Wege Stefanie , Shabala Sergey , Feijó José A. , Ryan Peter R. , Gilliham Matthew
Published: August 2015

Nature Communications 6, Article number: 7879 (2015); Published: 29 July 2015; Updated: 28 August 2015. The original version of this Article contained a typographical error in the spelling of the author Matthew Gilliham, which was incorrectly given as Matthew Gillham. This has now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis in the Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus) Knut
Authors: Prüss H. , Leubner J. , Wenke N. K. , Czirják G. Á. , Szentiks C. A. , Greenwood A. D.
Published: August 2015

Knut the polar bear of the Berlin Zoological Garden drowned in 2011 following seizures and was diagnosed as having suffered encephalitis of unknown etiology after exhaustive pathogen screening. Using the diagnostic criteria applied to human patients, we demonstrate that Knut’s encephalitis is almost identical to anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis which is a severe autoimmune disease representing the most common non-infectious encephalitis in humans. High concentrations of antibodies specific against the NR1 subunit of the NMDA receptor were detected in Knut’s cerebrospinal fluid. Histological examination demonstrated very similar patterns of plasma cell infiltration and minimal neuronal loss in affected brain areas. We conclude that Knut suffered anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis making his the first reported non-human case of this treatable disease. The results suggest that anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis may be a disease of broad relevance to mammals that until now has remained undiagnosed.
Computer simulations of the mechanical response of brushes on the surface of cancerous epithelial cells
Authors: Goicochea A. Gama , Guardado S. J. Alas
Published: August 2015

We report a model for atomic force microscopy by means of computer simulations of molecular brushes on surfaces of biological interest such as normal and cancerous cervical epithelial cells. Our model predicts that the force needed to produce a given indentation on brushes that can move on the surface of the cell (called “liquid” brushes) is the same as that required for brushes whose ends are fixed on the cell’s surface (called “solid” brushes), as long as the tip of the microscope covers the entire area of the brush. Additionally, we find that cancerous cells are softer than normal ones, in agreement with various experiments. Moreover, soft brushes are found to display larger resistance to compression than stiff ones. This phenomenon is the consequence of the larger equilibrium length of the soft brushes and the cooperative association of solvent molecules trapped within the brushes, which leads to an increase in the osmotic pressure. Our results show that a careful characterization of the brushes on epithelial cells is indispensable when determining the mechanical response of cancerous cells.
Sensitive Fibre-Based Thermoluminescence Detectors for High Resolution In-Vivo Dosimetry
Authors: Ghomeishi Mostafa , Mahdiraji G. Amouzad , Adikan F. R. Mahamd , Ung N. M. , Bradley D. A.
Published: August 2015

With interest in the potential of optical fibres as the basis of next-generation thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLDs), the development of suitable forms of material and their fabrication has become a fast-growing endeavour. Present study focuses on three types of Ge-doped optical fibres with different structural arrangements and/or shapes, namely conventional cylindrical fibre, capillary fibre and flat fibre, all fabricated using the same optical fibre preform. For doses from 0.5 to 8 Gy, obtained at electron and photon energies, standard thermoluminescence (TL) characteristics of the optical fibres have been the subject of detailed investigation. The results show that in collapsing the capillary fibre into a flat shape, the TL yield is increased by a factor of 5.5, the yield being also some 3.2 times greater than that of the conventional cylindrical fibre fabricated from the same perform. This suggests a means of production of suitably sensitive TLD for in-vivo dosimeter applications. Addressing the associated defects generating luminescence from each of the optical fibres, the study encompasses analysis of the TL glow curves, with computerized glow curve deconvolution (CGCD) and 2nd order kinetics.
Continuous and reversible tuning of the disorder-driven superconductor–insulator transition in bilayer graphene
Authors: Lee Gil-Ho , Jeong Dongchan , Park Kee-Su , Meir Yigal , Cha Min-Chul , Lee Hu-Jong
Published: August 2015

The influence of static disorder on a quantum phase transition (QPT) is a fundamental issue in condensed matter physics. As a prototypical example of a disorder-tuned QPT, the superconductor–insulator transition (SIT) has been investigated intensively over the past three decades, but as yet without a general consensus on its nature. A key element is good control of disorder. Here, we present an experimental study of the SIT based on precise in-situ tuning of disorder in dual-gated bilayer graphene proximity-coupled to two superconducting electrodes through electrical and reversible control of the band gap and the charge carrier density. In the presence of a static disorder potential, Andreev-paired carriers formed close to the Fermi level in bilayer graphene constitute a randomly distributed network of proximity-induced superconducting puddles. The landscape of the network was easily tuned by electrical gating to induce percolative clusters at the onset of superconductivity. This is evidenced by scaling behavior consistent with the classical percolation in transport measurements. At lower temperatures, the solely electrical tuning of the disorder-induced landscape enables us to observe, for the first time, a crossover from classical to quantum percolation in a single device, which elucidates how thermal dephasing engages in separating the two regimes.
Photo-induced H2 production from a CH3OH-H2O solution at insulator surface
Authors: Li Rengui , Wang Xiuli , Jin Shaoqing , Zhou Xin , Feng Zhaochi , Li Zheng , Shi Jingying , Zhang Qiao , Li Can
Published: August 2015

In a conventional photocatalytic or photochemical process, either a photocatalyst or a molecule is excited by irradiation light that has energy greater than the forbidden band (i.e., the band gap) of the semiconductor or the transition energy of an excited state of the molecule, respectively, for a reaction to occur. However, in this work, we found that a considerable amount of H2 can be generated from a CH3OH-H2O solution at a quartz surface using light with energy far outside the electronic absorbance range of the CH3OH-H2O solution; this process should not occur in principle via either conventional photocatalysis or a photochemical process. The H2 production was further confirmed using 266 nm and 355 nm lasers as light sources. Our work demonstrates that photo-induced H2 production can occur on insulator surfaces (e.g., quartz), which were commonly believed to be inert and will shed light on the surface nature of insulators.