bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mixed Donor–Acceptor‐Derived N,N′‐Diarylpyrazine‐2,5‐dicarboxamido‐Bridged Diruthenium Systems: Structures, Magnetic Properties, and Electronic Forms in Multiredox States
Authors: Khan Farheen Fatima , Mandal Abhishek , Klein Johannes , Priego José Luis , Jiménez‐Aparicio Reyes , Sarkar Biprajit , Lahiri Goutam Kumar
Published: October 2017

Herein, we report diruthenium(III) complexes bridged by the deprotonated N,N′‐diphenylpyrazine‐2,5‐dicarboxamide (H2L1) and N,N′‐dimesitylpyrazine‐2,5‐dicarboxamide (H2L2) ligands in meso diastereomeric form, namely, (acac)2RuIII(µ‐L1)RuIII(acac)2 (1, acac = acetylacetonato) and (acac)2RuIII(µ‐L2)RuIII(acac)2 (2), as well as the monodeprotonated HL1‐derived mononuclear counterpart (acac)2RuIII(HL1) (3). Variable‐temperature magnetic studies of 1 revealed a weak bridge‐mediated intramolecular antiferromagnetic interaction with J = –7.58 cm–1. The dinuclear complexes exhibited anisotropic electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signals at g ≈ 2 along with half‐field signals at g1/2 ≈ 4, whereas the mononuclear counterpart 3 displayed an EPR signal with rhombic symmetry. Complexes 1 and 2 exhibited two oxidation and reduction steps with comproportionation constants (Kc) of 102 and 106 or 107. Complex 3 displayed one oxidation and two reductions steps. The electrogenerated compounds 1– and 2– exhibited metal‐based EPR signals and a very weak and broad near‐infrared (NIR) transition at λ ≈ 1200 nm. The C=O bands of the bridge were monitored through IR spectroelectrochemistry, which revealed a shift of these bands to lower energies on reduction. However, the native and reduced states have the same number of bands, which suggests a similar local symmetry for both redox forms and a delocalized electronic situation in the reduced compounds. A combination of electrochemistry and spectroelectrochemistry was used to probe the electronic structures of the various redox states in these complexes.
Application of an Electrochemical Method to Evaluation of Amyloid‐β Aggregation Inhibitors: Testing the RGKLVFFGR‐NH2 Peptide Antiaggregant
Authors: Suprun Elena V. , Radko Sergey P. , Farafonova Tatiana E. , Mitkevich Vladimir A. , Makarov Alexander A. , Archakov Alexander I. , Shumyantseva Victoria V.
Published: October 2017

The aggregation of amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ) is believed to play a crucial role in the Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis and is considered as a therapeutic target for treating AD. The Aβ electrooxidation via a Tyr‐10 residue, sensitive to a depletion of a pool of Aβ monomers and oligomers in the course of Aβ aggregation, may be employed for testing natural and synthetic organic compounds (including short peptides) potentially able to inhibit the pathological Aβ aggregation (antiaggregants). In the present work, using the known peptide antiaggregant RGKLVFFGR‐NH2 (OR2) and its scrambled variant KGLRVGFRF‐NH2 as a control, we demonstrate that the electrochemical method based on electrooxidation of an Aβ42 Tyr‐10 residue, when combined with methods allowing for the evaluation of the Aβ42 aggregate structure and size, can provide essential information regarding the antiaggregant impact on Aβ42 aggregation. Electrochemical measurements were performed using square wave voltammetry on carbon screen printed electrodes whereas the Aβ42 aggregate structure and size were analyzed by means of the conventional thioflavin T (ThT) based fluorescence assay and dynamic light scattering. While inhibiting Aβ42 fibrillation as manifested by the unchanged level of ThT fluorescence, the OR2 peptide antiaggregant had no effect on the decrease of Aβ42 electrooxidation current in the course of Aβ42 aggregation. These observations suggest that OR2 does not stop the aggregation but redirects it into a pathway where amorphous rather than fibrillar aggregates are formed. Hence, the direct electrochemistry appears to offer a simple and cost‐effective approach for probing potential peptide antiaggregants, which is complementary to methods based on detecting Aβ aggregates.
Separation of chiral compounds using magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles as stationary phase by microchip capillary electrochromatography
Authors: Wu Lu‐Lu , Liang Ru‐Ping , Chen Juan , Qiu Jian‐Ding
Published: October 2017

In this work, a simple and rapid approach was developed for separation and detection of chiral compounds based on a magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer modified poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) microchip coupled with electrochemical detection. Molecularly imprinted polymers were prepared employing Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) as the supporting substrate and norepinephrine as the functional monomer in the presence of template molecule in a weak alkaline solution. After extracting the embedded template molecules, Fe3O4@polynorepinephrine NPs (MIP–Fe3O4@PNE NPs) showed specific molecular recognition selectivity and high affinity towards the template molecule, which were then used as stationary phase of microchip capillary electrochromatography for chiral compounds separation. Mandelic acid and histidine enantiomers were used as model compounds to test the chiral stationary phase. By using R‐mandelic acid as the template molecule, mandelic acid enantiomer was effectively separated and detected on the MIP‐Fe3O4@PNE NPs modified PDMS microchip. Moreover, the successful separation of histidine enantiomers on the MIP–Fe3O4@PNE NPs modified microchip using L‐histidine as template molecule was also achieved.
Electrothermal enrichment of submicron particles in an insulator‐based dielectrophoretic microdevice
Authors: Kale Akshay , Song Le , Lu Xinyu , Yu Liandong , Hu Guoqing , Xuan Xiangchun
Published: October 2017

Insulator‐based dielectrophoresis (iDEP) exploits in‐channel hurdles and posts etc. to create electric field gradients for various particle manipulations. However, the presence of such insulating structures also amplifies the Joule heating in the fluid around themselves, leading to both temperature gradients and electrothermal flow. These Joule heating effects have been previously demonstrated to weaken the dielectrophoretic focusing and trapping of microscale and nanoscale particles. We find that the electrothermal flow vortices are able to entrain submicron particles for a localized enrichment near the insulating tips of a ratchet microchannel. This increase in particle concentration is reasonably predicted by a full‐scale numerical simulation of the mass transport along with the coupled charge, heat and fluid transport. Our model also predicts the electric current and flow pattern in the fluid with a good agreement with the experimental observations.
Effect of shocked nitrobenzene concentrations on the operational performance of anaerobic sequential batch reactor
Authors: Huang Jingang , Li Jiahao , Han Wei , Chen Jianjun , Tang Junhong , Wen Yue , Wu Weihong
Published: October 2017

Two lab‐scale anaerobic sequence batch reactors (ASBRs), respectively fed with 5 mg L−1 (R1) and 200 mg L−1 (R2) of sulfate were set up in this study. A mixture of the volatile fatty acids (VFAs) containing acetate and propionate was provided as electron donors. The effects of the influent nitrobenzene (NB) concentrations and the external electron acceptor of sulfate on the operational performance of ASBRs were investigated. The results indicated that NB reduction, sulfate reduction and propionate degradation were inhibited or further terminated in response to a shocked influent NB concentration of 50 mg L−1, i.e., 32 g m−3 day−1. However, these biological activities in ASBRs could be reversibly resumed so long as the influent NB regained below 30 mg L−1. The insufficient propionate was the main electron donor for the simultaneous reductions of NB and sulfate. Sulfate can energetically compete with NB for propionate as a co‐substrate, resulting in the better performance of reactor R1 than that of R2. In engineering applications, the influent loading rates of pollutants should be safely declined below toxic thresholds to avoid the failure of system operation. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 712–718, 2018
Maternal morbidity after implementation of a postpartum hemorrhage protocol including use of misoprostol
Authors: Savirón‐Cornudella Ricardo , Esteban Luis M. , Laborda‐Gotor Ramiro , Rodríguez‐Solanilla Belén , De Mucio Bremen , Sanz Gerardo , Castán‐Mateo Sergio
Published: October 2017

Objective

To compare maternal morbidity before and after implementation of a postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) protocol that included misoprostol.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed using data from 34 631 deliveries recorded at a Spanish hospital between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2014. The PPH protocol was implemented in 2009 and included use of misoprostol and the Bakri balloon.

Results

The pre‐implementation and post‐implementation groups comprised 9394 and 25 237 women, respectively. Women in the pre‐implementation group tended to have lower hemoglobin levels than did those in the post‐implementation group: 811 (8.6%) versus 1349 (5.3%) for levels less than 90 g/L, and 272 (2.9%) versus 497 (2.0%) for levels less than 80 g/L (both P<0.001). Implementation of the PPH protocol was also associated with a decrease in the frequency of postpartum hysterectomies owing to uterine atony (0.11 cases per 1000 deliveries vs 0.53 cases per 1000 deliveries for the pre‐implementation group; P=0.063). Pregnancy length, maternal age, neonatal weight at delivery, multiple pregnancy, previous cesarean delivery, parity, operative vaginal delivery, induced labor, cesarean delivery, and not using the PPH protocol were found to predict postpartum anemia in the multivariate analysis (all P<0.001).

Conclusion

Implementation of the PPH protocol decreased rates of postpartum anemia and postpartum hysterectomy owing to uterine atony.
Aspartate‐β‐semialdeyhyde dehydrogenase as a potential therapeutic target of Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv: Evidence from in silico elementary mode analysis of biological network model
Authors: Khan Saif , Somvanshi Pallavi , Bhardwaj Tulika , Mandal Raju K. , Dar Sajad A. , Wahid Mohd , Jawed Arshad , Lohani Mohtashim , Khan Mahvish , Areeshi Mohammed Y. , Haque Shafiul
Published: October 2017

The emergence of multi‐drug resistant strains and co‐occurrence of tuberculosis with HIV creates a major burden to the human health globally. Failure of primary antibacterial therapy necessitates the identification of new mycobacterial drugs. In this study, a comprehensive analysis involving bottom‐up systems biology approach was applied wherein we have identified potential therapeutic targets of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections. Our study prioritized M. tuberculosis therapeutic targets (aspartate‐β‐semialdeyhde dehydrogenase [ASD], dihydrodipicolinate reductase and diaminopimelate decarboxylase) based on flux and elementary mode analysis using direct mathematical modeling of the relevant metabolic pathways. Molecular docking and simulation studies of the priority target (ie, ASD) revealed the therapeutic potential of the selected natural products (Huperzine A, Rosmarinic acid, and Curcumin) based ASD inhibitors. The study highlights the crucial role of systems biology in conjunction with molecular interaction (docking) for probing novel leads against an increasingly resistant pathogen, M. tuberculousis.
Simultaneous sequestration of nitrate and phosphate from wastewater using a tailor‐made bacterial consortium in biofilm bioreactor
Authors: Saha Amrita , Bhushan Shashi , Mukherjee Pallavi , Chanda Chaitali , Bhaumik Moumita , Ghosh Madhurima , Sharmin Jaweria , Datta Poulami , Banerjee Srimoyee , Barat Parthasarathi , Thakur Ashoke Ranjan , Gantayet Lalit Mohan , Mukherjee Indranil , Ray Chaudhuri Shaon
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Municipal wastewater usually contains nitrate and phosphate as major contaminants, and if discharged untreated affects the health of the environment and human population. Currently available treatment technologies to treat municipal wastewater lose the essential growth nutrients ‘P’ and ‘N’ during treatment. This paper presents a strategy of simultaneous sequestration of nitrate and phosphate in biomass, by using a tailor‐made consortium in a biofilm reactor.

RESULTS

The consortium comprising of three novel Bacillus strains in a fixed bed biofilm bioreactor maintained at ambient temperature showed reduction up to 94% of nitrate, 68% of phosphate, 93% of chemical oxygen demand, 97% of biochemical oxygen demand, 73% in total organic carbon while maintaining an effluent pH of 6.8 ± 0.02. Response surface methodology revealed maximum reduction at a flow rate of 1.97 L h‐1 with 306.04 mg L‐1 and 19.62 mg L‐1 of initial nitrate and phosphate concentrations respectively. The system was scaled up from 4.5 L to 220 L with the same retention time of 2 h and operated with consistent performance for over 212 days.

CONCLUSION

The treated wastewater met the criterion for reuse as non‐potable water for applications like irrigation and aquaculture, hence making it the fastest microbial process for simultaneous nitrate and phosphate removal from wastewater. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The anterior process of the malleus in extant Lagomorpha (Mammalia)
Authors: Maier Wolfgang , Tröscher Adrian , Ruf Irina
Published: October 2017

The anterior anchoring of the malleus of 30 extant species of Lagomorpha (rabbits, hares, pikas) has been studied on the basis of histological serial sections and µCT‐scans. It is shown that former studies of Oryctolagus, Lepus, and Ochotona are incomplete, because the rostral part of the processus anterior of the malleus is always lacking due to damage of this extremely delicate structure. Our study shows that in perinatal stages of Leporidae the praearticulare develops a prominent processus internus that fits into a groove at the ventral side of the tegmen tympani; this “tongue and groove”‐arrangement may act as a hinge. In adult stages, the rostral end of the praearticulare fuses synostotically with the medial process of the ectotympanic. Torsional strain produced by rotation around the axis of the middle ear ossicles at sound transmission must, therefore, be experienced by the extremely thin but highly elastic bony pedicle of the processus internus praearticularis. The free ending processus anterior of a late fetal Ochotona shows a short processus internus praearticularis, which does not articulate with the tegmen tympani. During postnatal development the middle ear of Ochotona becomes considerably remodelled: not only does excessive pneumatization of the tegmen tympani and tympanic cavity wall occur, but the short processus anterior is fused synostotically to a bone trabecula of the tegmen tympani meshwork. The thin and elastic bone bridges are not equivalent in Leporidae and Ochotonidae, that is, they must have evolved convergently. Fleischer's classification with Oryctolagus possessing a “freely mobile type” of middle ear ossicles cannot be supported by our observations. The same holds true for Ochotona, which does not represent a “freely mobile type” either. Thus, we suggest for the lagomorph middle ear ossicles a new category: the “bone elasticity type.”
Study on the interaction between cannabinol and DNA using acridine orange as a fluorescence probe
Authors: Tian Zhengshan , Wang Zechun , Han Xinxin , Wang Ning , Wang Ruiyong
Published: October 2017

The interaction between cannabinol (CBN) and herring‐sperm deoxyribonucleic acid was investigated by using acridine orange as a fluorescence probe in this work. UV‐Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and DNA melting techniques were used. The fluorescence of DNA acridine orange was quenched by CBN. The results indicated that CBN can bind to DNA. The binding constant for the CBN and herring‐sperm deoxyribonucleic acid was obtained at 3 temperatures, respectively. Results of molecular docking corroborated the experimental results obtained from spectroscopic investigations. The influence of ionic strength on the fluorescence properties was also investigated. The thermodynamic results indicated that hydrophobic interaction played a major role in the binding between CBN and DNA.
The influence of community factors on the engagement of residents in place promotion: Empirical evidence from an Italian heritage site
Authors: Vollero Agostino , Conte Francesca , Bottoni Gianmaria , Siano Alfonso
Published: October 2017

The engagement of community residents in place promotion is increasingly recognized as desirable for ensuring effective and reliable communication with tourists. The study investigated the effects of community factors on residents' engagement in the promotion of an Italian heritage site. Community commitment, environmental attitudes, and perceptions of the effectiveness of existing place marketing communications were found to be decisive in influencing residents' engagement in the promotion of the Amalfi Coast. The paper helps to shed light on collaboration in place promotion, thus enriching the debate on the ambassadorship role of residents and suggesting useful insights for policy makers/destination management organizations.
The safety and efficacy of powered intracapsular tonsillectomy in children: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lee Ho Seok , Yoon Ho Young , Jin Ho Joon , Hwang Se Hwan
Published: October 2017

Objectives

We performed a systemic review and meta‐analysis regarding the postoperative pain, perioperative, and postoperative morbidity of powered intracapsular tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (PITA) using a microdebrider as a method of tonsillectomy.

Data Sources

Five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) in their entirety through March 2017.

Review Methods

We included studies in which there was a comparison between groups of patients who underwent PITA (PITA group) and those who had extracapsular tonsillectomy (control group). Articles assessing effects of PITA in the pediatric patient were systemically and independently reviewed by two researchers. The outcomes of interest were intraoperative morbidity (operative time and bleeding), postoperative morbidity (postoperative pain, recovery time, tonsil regrowth, and postoperative bleeding rate), and improvement of sleep breath disorder (apnea‐hypopnea index [AHI] and symptomatic scores).

Results

PITA did not significantly increase operative time or intraoperative blood loss. With PITA, there was significantly decreased postoperative pain, amount of analgesia, time to resumption of normal diet and activity, and incidence of postoperative admissions (due to dehydration or postoperative bleeding control) compared to those of the control group. In contrast, the incidence of postoperative tonsil regrowth was statistically higher in the PITA group than in the control group. The PITA improved AHI and obstructive sleep apnea 18‐item questionnaire scores significantly, which were similar with the control group.

Conclusions

With regard to intraoperative morbidity and postoperative morbidity, PITA is a safe procedure. However, there are high levels of heterogeneity with regard to several measured parameters. Therefore, further large, well‐designed trials are required to substantiate our findings. Laryngoscope, 128:732–744, 2018
Recent progress of retroauricular robotic thyroidectomy with the new surgical robotic system
Authors: Byeon Hyung Kwon , Holsinger F. Christopher , Duvvuri Umamaheswar , Kim Da Hee , Park Jae Hong , Chang Estelle , Kim Se‐Heon , Koh Yoon Woo
Published: October 2017

Objective

Previously, we have reported the feasibility of retroauricular (RA) robotic thyroidectomy. Despite its promising surgical outcomes, there were certain intrinsic mechanical limitations inherent to the da Vinci Si System (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, California, U.S.A.). Since the advent of an upgraded model, the Xi System (Intuitive Surgical), we have actively incorporated the new model into performing RA thyroidectomy. Here, we intend to verify the feasibility of RA robotic thyroidectomy using the new da Vinci Xi System (Intuitive Surgical) with comparison of the former Si‐applied surgery (Intuitive Surgical).

Study Design

Comparative analysis.

Methods

There were total 165 consecutive patients who received RA robotic thyroidectomy from January 2013 to February 2016. The patients were divided into two groups: Si group (n = 125) and Xi group (n = 40). Perioperative and treatment outcomes were compared and analyzed.

Results

Compared with the previous system, new da Vinci Xi system (Intuitive Surgical) enabled insertion of an extra third robotic instrumental arm. Unlike the previous robotic surgical technique, the robotic dissection could be initiated immediately after the establishment of working space and the resulting total operation time could be significantly decreased. There was no difference in the surgical completeness, as confirmed by postoperative thyroglobulin levels. Additionally, flexed EndoWrist (Intuitive Surgical) instruments equipped with the Erbe (Erbe USA Inc., Marietta, Georgia, U.S.A.) system could be mounted, which further facilitated the operation. There were no significant differences in postoperative complications between the two groups.

Conclusion

The RA robotic thyroidectomy with the new Xi System (Intuitive Surgical) can greatly facilitate the robotic surgery with comparable or improved surgical outcomes. Its application is expected to open up a new era of robotic neck surgery.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1730–1737, 2018
Synthesis of Multifunctionalized Graft‐Type Polyolefin‐Based Elastomers with a High Utility Temperature
Authors: Ying Wu Bin , Lee Min Woo , Yang Hee Sang , Moon Da Som , Ko Na Yeong , Lee Bumjae , Zhu Jin , Zhang Ruoyu , Lee Kyung Jin
Published: October 2017

A novel polyolefin‐based elastomer of polyolefin‐graft‐poly(t‐butylstyrene) is synthesized from styrene moieties via graft‐from anionic living polymerization. The afforded elastomer comprises a soft poly(ethylene‐t‐1‐hexene‐t‐divinylbenzene) segment and a hard poly(t‐butylstyrene) [P(t‐BS)] segment. The polymerization proceeds via complete lithiation of the pendent styrene groups (polyolefin elastomer) and subsequent graft anionic polymerization of 4‐tert‐butylstyrene (2000–10 000 g mol−1). The graft‐from living anionic polymerization controls the grafting size with excellent efficiency by increasing the monomer concentration. To introduce functional groups into the polymer chain‐end, vinyl isoprene units are introduced into the polyolefin‐graft‐poly(t‐butylstyrene) anion to form polyolefin‐graft‐[poly(t‐butylstyrene)‐block‐polyisoprene] via living block copolymerization. Subsequent graft chain‐end multicarboxyl functionalization via thiol‐ene “click” reactions introduces carboxyl groups into the [P(t‐BS)] graft chain‐end. The water contact angle of this multicarboxyl functionalized product exhibits a sharper decrement, which affects its hydrophilicity significantly. This process produces a novel, well‐defined functionalized graft‐type polyolefin‐based elastomer with a high utility temperature and excellent mechanical properties.
Matrix metallopeptidase 9 targeted by hsa‐miR‐494 promotes silybin‐inhibited osteosarcoma
Authors: Sun Tianhao , Cheung Kelvin S. C. , Liu Zhi‐Li , Leung Frankie , Lu William W.
Published: October 2017

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common malignant tumor that develops in bone. Its mortality is very high. Therefore, study of mechanisms of pathogenesis of the OS is urgently required. Previous studies of microarray showed that the expression levels of matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP‐9) altered significantly in OS. In addition, overexpression of MMP‐9 is recognized as an indicator in cancer. However, the exact roles of MMP‐9 in OS are not fully investigated. Thus, we firstly studied the roles of MMP‐9 in OS and revealed that silence of MMP‐9 inhibited OS cell proliferation as determined by MTT assay and colony formation assay. Secondly, we conducted TUNEL assay and confirmed loss of functions of MMP‐9 induced OS cell apoptosis. Next, we used lentivector packaging method to overexpress MMP‐9 and found that overexpression of MMP‐9 promoted OS cell migration. Fourthly, the results of luciferase assay showed that MMP‐9 was targeted by hsa‐miR‐494, which inhibited OS. Fifthly, we revealed that the levels of hsa‐miR‐494 were upregulated by the drug silybin which inhibited OS. Finally, we revealed that silybin inhibited OS cell viability by altering the protein levels of β‐catenin and Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) as determined by western blot and immunocytochemistry (ICC).
Expression of the FGFR2c mesenchymal splicing variant in human keratinocytes inhibits differentiation and promotes invasion
Authors: Ranieri Danilo , Rosato Benedetta , Nanni Monica , Belleudi Francesca , Torrisi Maria Rosaria
Published: October 2017

The altered isoform switching of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) and aberrant expression of the mesenchymal FGFR2c isoform in epithelial cells is involved in cancer progression. We have recently described that the ectopic expression of FGFR2c in normal human keratinocytes induces epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and leads to invasiveness and anchorage‐independent growth. Here, we extended our analysis to the effects of this FGFR2c forced expression on human keratinocyte differentiation and stratification. Our findings demonstrated that, differently from cells overexpressing the epithelial splicing variant FGFR2b, keratinocytes ectopically expressing FGFR2c are not able to form a monolayer and display decreased expression of early differentiation markers. This impaired ability to enter the differentiation program is related to the up‐modulation of the transcription factor ΔNp63. In addition, FGFR2c‐expressing keratinocytes undergo defective stratification and invasion of the collagen matrix in 3D organotypic cultures, further suggesting their tumorigenic potential. Taken together, our results support the hypothesis that the receptor switching and the consequent appearance of the mesenchymal FGFR2c variant in the epithelial context would drive early steps of carcinogenesis, unbalancing the p63/FGFR interplay, and altering the paracrine response to the microenvironment.
Falls in Parkinson's disease: A complex and evolving picture
Authors: Fasano Alfonso , Canning Colleen G. , Hausdorff Jeffrey M. , Lord Sue , Rochester Lynn
Published: October 2017

Falls are a major determinant of poor quality of life, immobilization, and reduced life expectancy in people affected by Parkinson's disease (PD) and in older adults more generally. Although many questions remain, recent research has advanced the understanding of this complex problem. The goal of this review is to condense new knowledge of falls in PD from prodromal to advanced disease, taking into account risk factors, assessment, and classification as well as treatment. The fundamental steps of clinical and research‐based approaches to falls are described, namely, the identification of fall risk factors, clinical and instrumental methods to evaluate and classify fall risk, and the latest evidence to reduce or delay falls in PD. We summarize recent developments, the direction in which the field should be heading, and what can be recommended at this stage. We also provide a practical algorithm for clinicians.© 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Toward fast calculation of communication paths for resilient routing
Authors: Myslitski Kanstantsin , Rak Jacek , Kuszner Łukasz
Published: October 2017

Utilization of alternate communication paths is a common technique to provide protection of transmission against failures of network nodes/links. However, a noticeable delay is encountered when calculating the relevant sets of disjoint paths using the available algorithms (e.g., using Bhandari's approach). This, in turn, may have a serious impact on the ability of a network to serve dynamic demands (i.e., characterized by a relatively short duration time). To provide a solution to this problem, in this article we introduce an approach to pre‐compute the sets of disjoint paths in advance to be able to start serving the demands shortly after their arrival. Our approach is based on the observation that the issue of establishing a set of node‐disjoint paths is equivalent to the problem of determining the cheapest cycle in the network topology traversing the end nodes of a demand. In particular, we propose a generalization of this scheme assuming that any pair of node‐disjoint paths can be obtained by means of merging a number of basic cycles defined for a network topology. A new method to calculate the cheapest end‐to‐end cycles based on the so called basic cycles is introduced, which, as verified for real network topologies, reduces up to 70% the time needed to establish node‐disjoint paths (compared with the results obtained for the reference Bhandari's scheme). © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 70(4), 308–326 2017
The American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology workforce assessment: Part 1—Current state of the workforce
Authors: Hord Jeffrey , Shah Mona , Badawy Sherif M. , Matthews Dana , Hilden Joanne , Wayne Alan S. , Salsberg Edward , Leavey Patrick S. ,   on behalf of the American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Workforce Advisory Taskforce
Published: October 2017

The American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology (ASPHO) recognized recent changes in medical practice and the potential impact on pediatric hematology–oncology (PHO) workforce. ASPHO surveyed society members and PHO Division Directors between 2010 and 2016 and studied PHO workforce data collected by the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association to characterize the current state of the PHO workforce. The analysis of this information has led to a comprehensive description of PHO physicians, professional activities, and workplace. It is important to continue to collect data to identify changes in composition and needs of the PHO workforce.
Robust control of a family of uncertain nonminimum‐phase systems via continuous‐time and sampled‐data output feedback
Authors: Lin Wei , Wei Wei
Published: October 2017

The problem of global robust stabilization is studied by both continuous‐time and sampled‐data output feedback for a family of nonminimum‐phase nonlinear systems with uncertainty. The uncertain nonlinear system considered in this paper has an interconnect structure consisting of a driving system and a possibly unstable zero dynamics with uncertainty, ie, the uncertain driven system. Under a linear growth condition on the uncertain zero dynamics and a Lipschitz condition on the driving system, we show that it is possible to globally robustly stabilize the family of uncertain nonminimum‐phase systems by a single continuous‐time or a sampled‐data output feedback controller. The sampled‐data output feedback controller is designed by using the emulated versions of a continuous‐time observer and a state feedback controller, ie, by holding the input/output signals constant over each sampling interval. The design of either continuous‐time or sampled‐data output compensator uses only the information of the nominal system of the uncertain controlled plant. In the case of sampled‐data control, global robust stability of the hybrid closed‐loop system with uncertainty is established by means of a feedback domination method together with the robustness of the nominal closed‐loop system if the sampling time is small enough.
Gold Nanoparticles from Vegetable Extracts Using Different Plants from the Market: A Study on Stability, Shape and Toxicity
Authors: Clemente Ilaria , Ristori Sandra , Pierucci Federica , Muniz‐Miranda Maurizio , Salvatici Maria Cristina , Giordano Cristiana , Meacci Elisabetta , Feis Alessandro , Gonnelli Cristina
Published: October 2017

The use of nanoparticles for many advanced applications (drug‐delivery, biosensors, catalysts etc.) involves their large scale production. This engenders the need of synthetic methods and reactants which are sustainable as well as safe. Natural products allow to prepare nanoparticles via eco‐friendly processes, which is especially true for reducing/capping agents obtained from agricultural by‐products. Here, we prepared gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in high yields by using extracts from the leaves of marketable plants and by following different synthetic routes (i. e. one‐ or two‐steps). The size and morphology of the obtained AuNPs were determined by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), while surface coverage with different chemical species was investigated by surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). In vitro experiments on bone‐marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were used to study the effect on cell viability, as a first step toward toxicity assessment. This work allowed to select the nanoparticles with highest SERS activity at infrared excitation wavelength, in view of their possible use as shelf products.
Deep Axial Inclusion of Two Aromatic Molecules by Dimethyl‐β‐Cyclodextrin and β‐Cyclodextrin
Authors: Kobayashi Yayoi , Hoshi Tomonori , Yamamoto Satoshi , Kimura Mutsumi , Kobayashi Nagao
Published: October 2017

Electronic absorption, induced circular dichroism, and 1H NMR spectroscopies, together with molecular orbital calculations, have indicated the attainment of a deep axial inclusion of two aromatic molecules by β‐cyclodextrin and dimethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin, by selecting quinhydrone (1:1 compound consisting of benzoquinone and hydroquinone) as a guest molecule.
Calcium Bismuthate Nanoparticulates with Orthorhombic and Rhombohedral Crystalline Lattices: Effects of Composition and Structure on Photoactivity
Authors: Shtarev Dmitry S. , Ryabchuk Vladimir K. , Makarevich Konstantin S. , Shtareva Anna V. , Blokh Artem I. , Astapov Ivan A. , Serpone Nick
Published: October 2017

Calcium bismuthate nanoparticles with orthorhombic and rhombohedral crystal lattices were synthesized and characterized by various techniques. The syntheses caused the formation of oxygen and cationic vacancies in bismuth‐deficient samples. Heat treatment of samples with anionic vacancies led to thermal annealing of oxygen vacancies in ambient air; the annealing process was reversible. Oxygen vacancies in Bi‐deficient CaBi6O10 governed the optical absorption beyond the fundamental absorption edge at E(hν) < Ebg ≈ 2.5 eV. Bandgap energies of the bismuthates with orthorhombic and rhombohedral lattices were 2.51 eV prior to annealing and 2.47 eV after annealing at 350 °C. The trend in photoactivity toward the degradation of methylene blue dye under visible light showed that the photoactivity of the orthorhombic samples (1‐3) increased with a decrease in the [Ca]:[Bi] ratio (1.0:6.3 to 1.0:4.3); the sample with lowest ratio (1.0:4.3) displayed highest photoactivity. By contrast, the rhombohedral samples (4‐6) showed increased photoactivity with increase in the number of Bi atoms; sample with highest ratio (1.0:6.3) displayed highest photoactivity.
The effect of sodium bicarbonate and validation of beckman coulterAU680 analyzers for measuring total carbon dioxide (TCO2) concentrations in horse serum
Authors: Dirikolu Levent , Waller Pamela , Waguespack Mona Landry , Andrews Frank Michael , Keowen Michael Layne , Gaunt Stephen David
Published: October 2017

This study evaluated the usage of Beckman CoulterAU680 analyzers for measurement ofTCO2in horse serum, and the effect of sodium bicarbonate administrations on serumTCO2levels in resting horses. Treatment of horses with sodium bicarbonate did not result in any adverse events. MeanTCO2concentration was significantly higher from 1 to 8 h in the sodium bicarbonate‐treated horses compared to the untreated controls. Within an hour, administration of sodium bicarbonate increased theTCO2level from 31.5 ± −2.5 (SD) to 34.0 ± 2.65 (SD) mmol/L and at 2–8 h post‐administration, theTCO2level was above the 36 mmol/L cut‐off level. In all quality control analysis of Australian standard by Beckman CoulterAU680 analyzer, the instrument slightly over estimated theTCO2level but the values were in close agreement with meanTCO2level being 38.03 with ± 0.87 mmol/L (SD). Expanded uncertainty was calculated using different levels of confidence interval. Based on 99.5% confidence interval using 0.805% expanded uncertainty using mean measured concentration of 38.05 mmol/L, it was estimated that any race samplesTCO2level higher than 38.5 mmol/L will be indicative of sodium bicarbonate administration using Beckman CoulterAU680 analyzer in Louisiana.
Are differences between groups different at different occasions?
Authors: Leppink Jimmie , O’Sullivan Patricia , Winston Kal
Published: October 2017

None
To fail is human: remediating remediation in medical education
Authors: Kalet Adina , Chou Calvin L. , Ellaway Rachel H.
Published: October 2017

Introduction Remediating failing medical learners has traditionally been a craft activity responding to individual learner and remediator circumstances. Although there have been moves towards more systematic approaches to remediation (at least at the institutional level), these changes have tended to focus on due process and defensibility rather than on educational principles. As remediation practice evolves, there is a growing need for common theoretical and systems-based perspectives to guide this work.

Methods This paper steps back from the practicalities of remediation practice to take a critical systems perspective on remediation in contemporary medical education. In doing so, the authors acknowledge the complex interactions between institutional, professional, and societal forces that are both facilitators of and barriers to effective remediation practices.

Results The authors propose a model that situates remediation within the contexts of society as a whole, the medical profession, and medical education institutions. They also outline a number of recommendations to constructively align remediation principles and practices, support a continuum of remediation practices, destigmatize remediation, and develop institutional communities of practice in remediation.

Discussion Medical educators must embrace a responsible and accountable systems-level approach to remediation if they are to meet their obligations to provide a safe and effective physician workforce.
Prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among primary school-children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 2015-2016
Authors: Albatti Turki H. , Alhedyan Zhour , Alnaeim Norah , Almuhareb Anjod , Alabdulkarim Jawaher , Albadia Rawan , Alshahrani Khawla
Published: October 2017

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to 1) determine the prevalence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) among both governmental and private primary Saudi school children, 2) measure the gender difference of ADHD prevalence, and 3) determine any association between the sociodemographic characteristic of the parents of children with ADHD.

Methods:

This is an observational cross-sectional study of 1000 primary school children belonging to 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade. The selected students were screened by the ADHD rating scale using multistage sampling technique. The first stage was selection of 20 schools from all Riyadh regions by simple randomization. The second stage was choosing children whom serial numbers were multiples of five in each class. The ADHD rating scale was filled by both parents and teachers along with a sociodemographic questionnaire for the parents.

Results:

The estimated prevalence of ADHD was 3.4%. ADHD manifestations affect boys more than girls. In addition, ADHD was more frequent among children of illiterate mothers. Finally, ADHD was significantly more prevalent among first grade children.

Conclusion:

This epidemiological study filled the data gap of ADHD prevalence in Riyadh. The study's findings go in line with many nearby and global studies.
Network models for mapping educational data
Authors: Willcox Karen E. , Huang Luwen
Published: October 2017

Educational mapping is the process of analyzing an educational system to identify entities, relationships and attributes. This paper proposes a network modeling approach to educational mapping. Current mapping processes in education typically represent data in forms that do not support scalable learning analytics. For example, a curriculum map is usually a table, where relationships among curricular elements are represented implicitly in the rows of the table. The proposed network modeling approach overcomes this limitation through explicit modeling of these relationships in a graph structure, which in turn unlocks the ability to perform scalable analyses on the dataset. The paper presents network models for educational use cases, with concrete examples in curriculum mapping, accreditation mapping and concept mapping. Illustrative examples demonstrate how the formal modeling approach enables visualization and learning analytics. The analysis provides insight into learning pathways, supporting design of adaptive learning systems. It also permits gap analysis of curriculum coverage, supporting student advising, student degree planning and curricular design at scales ranging from an entire institution to an individual course.
Fish-borne nematodiases in South America: neglected emerging diseases
Authors: Eiras J.C. , Pavanelli G.C. , Takemoto R.M. , Nawa Y.
Published: October 2017

Fish-borne zoonotic nematodes may infect humans when fish or squid are ingested raw or inadequately cooked. Human infections may have serious consequences, including the unexpected deaths of infected people. This kind of disease is poorly known in general, and the characteristics of such infections in South American countries as a whole have never been assessed. In this paper the present status of fish-borne nematodiases in humans in South American countries is characterized. Potentially zoonotic nematode species are very common in both freshwater and marine fish in South America. Reports of human infections have only been found in some countries, and their incidence (especially with anisakids andGnathostomaspp.) varies from country to country. Apparently they are more abundant in countries with strong traditions of eating raw fish, and are more frequent on the western coast of South America. So far fish-borne nematodes have been reported in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. In recent years, cases of human infection have appeared in probably underestimated numbers. People need to be clearly informed about risky feeding habits, and physicians need to learn more about zoonotic diseases.
Sleep and dietary habits in the urban environment: the role of chrono-nutrition
Authors: Pot Gerda K.
Published: October 2017

The urban environment has changed vastly over past decades, which also has had an impact on our sleep and dietary patterns and possibly health outcomes. Some studies have shown that sleep duration and sleep quality has declined over past decades, especially in children. In parallel, our lifestyle and dietary patterns have also changed including more shift work, more meals outside the home or family setting and more irregular eating patterns, including breakfast skipping and late-night eating. This new area of research in nutritional sciences studying the impact of the timing of eating on health outcomes is called chrono-nutrition, and combines elements from nutritional research with chrono-biology. The objectives of this paper were to discuss secular trends in sleep patterns and related dietary patterns, introduce basic concepts and mechanisms of chrono-nutrition and discuss the evidence for the importance of sleep and chrono-nutrition in relation to health outcomes. Overall, chrono-nutrition could mediate the effects between sleep, diet and urbanisation, and more research is needed to elucidate the importance of chrono-nutrition for metabolic health and its impact on public health.
Declines in prevalence of adolescent substance use disorders and delinquent behaviors in the USA: a unitary trend?
Authors: Grucza R. A. , Krueger R. F. , Agrawal Arpana , Plunk A. D. , Krauss M. J. , Bongu J. , Cavazos-Rehg P. A. , Bierut L. J.
Published: October 2017

Background

Downward trends in a number of adolescent risk behaviors including violence, crime, and drug use have been observed in the USA in recent years. It is unknown whether these are separate trends or whether they might relate to a general reduction in propensity to engage in such behaviors. Our objectives were to quantify trends in substance use disorders (SUDs) and delinquent behaviors over the 2003–2014 period and to determine whether they might reflect a single trend in an Externalizing-like trait.

Methods

We analyzed data from 12 to 17 year old participants from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a representative survey of the household dwelling population of the USA, across the 2003–2014 period (N = 210 599). Outcomes included past-year prevalence of six categories of substance use disorder and six categories of delinquent behavior.

Results

Trend analysis suggested a net decline of 49% in mean number of SUDs and a 34% decline in delinquent behaviors over the 12-year period. Item Response Theory models were consistent with the interpretation that declines in each set of outcomes could be attributed to changes in mean levels of a latent, Externalizing-like trait.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that declines in SUDs and some delinquent behaviors reflect a single trend related to an Externalizing-like trait. Identifying the factors contributing to this trend may facilitate continued improvement across a spectrum of adolescent risk behaviors.
Making replication mainstream
Authors: Zwaan Rolf A. , Etz Alexander , Lucas Richard E. , Donnellan M. Brent
Published: October 2017

Many philosophers of science and methodologists have argued that the ability to repeat studies and obtain similar results is an essential component of science. A finding is elevated from single observation to scientific evidence when the procedures that were used to obtain it can be reproduced and the finding itself can be replicated. Recent replication attempts show that some high profile results – most notably in psychology, but in many other disciplines as well – cannot be replicated consistently. These replication attempts have generated a considerable amount of controversy, and the issue of whether direct replications have value has, in particular, proven to be contentious. However, much of this discussion has occurred in published commentaries and social media outlets, resulting in a fragmented discourse. To address the need for an integrative summary, we review various types of replication studies and then discuss the most commonly voiced concerns about direct replication. We provide detailed responses to these concerns and consider different statistical ways to evaluate replications. We conclude there are no theoretical or statistical obstacles to making direct replication a routine aspect of psychological science.