bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Expressive Communication Skills in a Cross-Sectional Sample of Children and Young Adults With Angelman Syndrome
Authors: Quinn Emily D. , Rowland Charity
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This study explores data on expressive communication skills of 300 individuals aged 0.0–21.11 years with Angelman syndrome (AS). These data provide a composite portrait of communication skills in a large sample of children and young adults with this rare disorder, specifying new detailed information about expressive communication.

Method

The database associated with the Communication Matrix assessment (Rowland, 2004, 2011; Rowland & Fried-Oken, 2010) was mined for data regarding individuals with AS. We extracted data on the reasons for communicating, level of communication achieved, and use of various expressive communication modes to convey 24 specific messages. The performance of children and young adults in 5 age groups in the cross-sectional sample were contrasted.

Results

Results confirmed earlier studies showing that few individuals with AS use natural speech. However, in addition to using presymbolic modes, many children used alternative symbolic modes such as picture symbols, object symbols, and manual signs. Assessment scores increased slightly with age,
F
(4, 295) = 2.416,
p
= .049.

Conclusions

Aggregating data on a large sample of individuals with AS provides a reference point for practitioners and family members and a basis for future investigations.
Auditory Phenotype of Smith–Magenis Syndrome
Authors: Brendal Megan A. , King Kelly A. , Zalewski Christopher K. , Finucane Brenda M. , Introne Wendy , Brewer Carmen C. , Smith Ann C. M.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe the auditory phenotype of a large cohort with Smith–Magenis syndrome (SMS), a rare disorder including physical anomalies, cognitive deficits, sleep disturbances, and a distinct behavioral phenotype.

Method

Hearing-related data were collected for 133 individuals with SMS aged 1–49 years. Audiogram data (97 participants) were used for cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Caregivers completed a sound sensitivity survey for 98 individuals with SMS and a control group of 24 unaffected siblings.

Results

Nearly 80% of participants with interpretable audiograms (
n
= 76) had hearing loss, which was typically slight to mild in degree. When hearing loss type could be determined (40 participants), sensorineural hearing loss (48.1%) occurred most often in participants aged 11–49 years. Conductive hearing loss (35.2%) was typically observed in children aged 1–10 years. A pattern of fluctuating and progressive hearing decline was documented. Hyperacusis was reported in 73.5% of participants with SMS compared with 12.5% of unaffected siblings.

Conclusions

This study offers the most comprehensive characterization of the auditory phenotype of SMS to date. The auditory profile in SMS is multifaceted and can include a previously unreported manifestation of hyperacusis. Routine audiologic surveillance is recommended as part of standard clinical care.
Time Course of Lexicalization During Sentence Production in Parkinson's Disease: Eye-Tracking While Speaking
Authors: Lee Jiyeon
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Growing evidence suggests that sentence formulation is affected in Parkinson's disease (PD); however, how speakers with PD coordinate sentence planning and speaking remains unclear. Within 2 competing models of sentence production, this study examined whether speakers with PD show advanced buffering of words to minimize disfluencies and increased demands during speech or whether they plan one word at a time, compromising accuracy and fluency of speech.

Method

Participants described 3 computer-displayed pictures using the sentence “the A and the B are above the C.” Name agreement (codability) was varied to be high (
clock
) or low (
sofa/couch
) for each object position (A, B, C), affecting difficulty of lexical selection. Participants' gaze durations to each object were recorded.

Results

Speakers with PD showed incremental word-by-word planning, retrieving only the first lexical item (A) before speech onset, similar to controls. However, they produced greater word-finding errors and disfluencies compared to controls for the low-codable pictures, but not for high-codable pictures.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that by following word-by-word incremental production, speakers with PD compromise fluency and accuracy of speech to a greater extent than healthy older speakers and that PD is associated with impaired inhibitory control during lexical selection.
A Diagnostic Marker to Discriminate Childhood Apraxia of Speech From Speech Delay: I. Development and Description of the Pause Marker
Authors: Shriberg Lawrence D. , Strand Edythe A. , Fourakis Marios , Jakielski Kathy J. , Hall Sheryl D. , Karlsson Heather B. , Mabie Heather L. , McSweeny Jane L. , Tilkens Christie M. , Wilson David L.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The goal of this article (PM I) is to describe the rationale for and development of the Pause Marker (PM), a single-sign diagnostic marker proposed to discriminate early or persistent childhood apraxia of speech from speech delay.

Method

The authors describe and prioritize 7 criteria with which to evaluate the research and clinical utility of a diagnostic marker for childhood apraxia of speech, including evaluation of the present proposal. An overview is given of the Speech Disorders Classification System, including extensions completed in the same approximately 3-year period in which the PM was developed.

Results

The finalized Speech Disorders Classification System includes a nosology and cross-classification procedures for childhood and persistent speech disorders and motor speech disorders (Shriberg, Strand, & Mabie, 2017). A PM is developed that provides procedural and scoring information, and citations to papers and technical reports that include audio exemplars of the PM and reference data used to standardize PM scores are provided.

Conclusions

The PM described here is an acoustic-aided perceptual sign that quantifies one aspect of speech precision in the linguistic domain of phrasing. This diagnostic marker can be used to discriminate early or persistent childhood apraxia of speech from speech delay.
Processing of Acoustic Cues in Lexical-Tone Identification by Pediatric Cochlear-Implant Recipients
Authors: Peng Shu-Chen , Lu Hui-Ping , Lu Nelson , Lin Yung-Song , Deroche Mickael L. D. , Chatterjee Monita
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The objective was to investigate acoustic cue processing in lexical-tone recognition by pediatric cochlear-implant (CI) recipients who are native Mandarin speakers.

Method

Lexical-tone recognition was assessed in pediatric CI recipients and listeners with normal hearing (NH) in 2 tasks. In Task 1, participants identified naturally uttered words that were contrastive in lexical tones. For Task 2, a disyllabic word (
yanjing
) was manipulated orthogonally, varying in fundamental-frequency (F0) contours and duration patterns. Participants identified each token with the second syllable
jing
pronounced with Tone 1 (a high level tone) as
eyes
or with Tone 4 (a high falling tone) as
eyeglasses.

Results

CI participants' recognition accuracy was significantly lower than NH listeners' in Task 1. In Task 2, CI participants' reliance on F0 contours was significantly less than that of NH listeners; their reliance on duration patterns, however, was significantly higher than that of NH listeners. Both CI and NH listeners' performance in Task 1 was significantly correlated with their reliance on F0 contours in Task 2.

Conclusion

For pediatric CI recipients, lexical-tone recognition using naturally uttered words is primarily related to their reliance on F0 contours, although duration patterns may be used as an additional cue.
Outage performance of cooperative DS‐CDMA systems with best path selection over α − η − μ fading channels
Authors: Kapucu N. , Bilim M. , Develi I.
Published: April 2017

Outage probability (OP) of amplify‐and‐forward direct‐sequence code‐division multiple‐access (DS‐CDMA) systems is analysed with best path selection over α − η − μ fading channels. First, cumulative distribution function (CDF) of α − η − μ fading is derived and then, lower bound of the OP is obtained for the considered system. An asymptotic CDF expression is also proposed in order to get more insights on system behaviour. The OP performance is presented for different relay and fading parameter configurations. Analytical derivations are validated by the close agreement with simulations.
MPC to optimise performance in power‐assisted manipulation of industrial objects
Authors: Rahman S. M. Mizanoor , Ikeura Ryojun
Published: April 2017

A 1‐DOF power‐assist robotic system (PARS) is developed using a linear actuator for vertical manipulation of heavy objects in collaboration with its human user. Human's differential perception of inertia and gravity is considered in the manipulation dynamics, and an admittance‐type feedback position control scheme is designed to control the motion of the system. A human manipulates a heavy object with the robot in harmonic motion (the object is repeatedly lifted up and lowered down). A common performance index for the human and the robot for the collaborative task is derived in terms of manipulation velocity and precision. An event‐triggered model predictive control (MPC) scheme is designed to maintain optimal performance of the robot and the human through maintaining optimum robot velocity and precision at the events when low performance is observed. Results show that the weight‐perception‐based control helps produce satisfactory collaborative performance, and the MPC is proven effective to maintain optimal performance and improved human–robot interaction. The findings are useful to develop predictive control strategies for human‐friendly PARSs for manipulating heavy objects in industries in particular, and for other variable‐speed electric drive systems for industrial applications, in general.
Tertiary amine‐containing poly(methyl methacrylate–butadiene–styrene) core/shell nanoparticles with CO2‐triggered aggregation behaviour
Authors: Sun Jianwu , Li Lingxiao , Shen Jie , Zhou Xiaoteng , Li Junpei , Kan Chengyou
Published: April 2017

A new kind of poly(methyl methacrylate–butadiene–styrene) (MBS) core/shell latex nanoparticles with amine groups in the shell was prepared via multistep seeded emulsion copolymerisation of styrene, methyl methacrylate and N,N‐diethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DEAEMA) onto the poly(styrene–butadiene) seed latex in the presence of anionic emulsifier, and their CO2‐triggered coagulating properties were investigated. Results showed that the emulsion polymerisation could be performed smoothly, and the coagulating time of the amine‐containing MBS latexes depended on the DEAEMA content and solid content. The MBS solid powder could be easily obtained by drying and grinding without any extra treatment after the coagulation. A coagulating mechanism of the in‐situ opposite charge interaction and the transformation from sodium laurate to lauric acid was proposed, which was demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, surface tension and Zeta potential measurements. This facile and smart method might open up industrial potential in cost‐effective and environment‐friendly latex coagulation.
Total Synthesis of Biselide A, A Cytotoxic Macrolide of Marine Origin
Authors: Hayakawa Ichiro , Kigoshi Hideo , Okamura Masami , Suzuki Kazuaki , Shimanuki Mami , Kimura Kizuku , Yamada Takuya , Ohyoshi Takayuki
Published: April 2017

The total synthesis of biselide A based on our earlier strategy of synthesizing haterumalides is reported. The highlights of this approach are the use of regioselective enzymatic hydrolysis for the installation of a C20 oxygen functional group and an asymmetric aldol reaction for the stereoselective introduction of a C3 oxygen functional group.
Rhodium-Catalyzed Intramolecular Cyclopropanation of α-Diazo β-Keto Nitriles Containing an Unsaturated Substituted Cycloalkyl Group
Authors: Zhu Jia-Liang , Wu Yung-Peng
Published: April 2017

Several α-diazo β-keto nitriles bearing trans-2-allyl-, -vinyl-, or -phenylcycloalkyl groups were prepared and their intramolecular cyclopropanation reactions were examined. In the presence of Rh2(OAc)4 (1 mol%) as a catalyst, the allyl- and vinyl-substituted precursors were found to undergo cyclopropanation smoothly at ambient temperature to afford novel tricyclic α-keto cyclopropyl nitriles in 47–88% yields with diastereomeric ratios ranging from 79:21 to >99:1. On the other hand, the catalytic reactions of the phenyl-containing analogues did not give any cyclopropyl products, but instead provided functionalized hexa­hydrophenanthrene or tetrahydrocyclopentanaphthalene derivatives in quantitative yields.
Targeted Synthesis of 4-Chloro-3-formylthieno[2,3-b]pyridine and/or 4-Chlorothieno[2,3-b]pyridine by Reaction between N-Protected 3-Acetyl-2-aminothiophenes and Vilsmeier–Haack Reagent
Authors: Kirsch Gilbert , Abdelwahab Ahmed , Hanna Atef
Published: April 2017

Formylated chlorothieno[2,3-b]pyridine derivatives were synthesized by reaction between N-protected 3-acetyl-2-aminothiophenes and Vilsmeier–Haack reagent under classical conditions. These products were not accessible without N-protection of the starting materials or by reaction between the reagent and 4-chlorothieno[2,3-b]pyridine under any conditions. The conditions of the reaction could be altered to produce unformylated derivatives in better yields than reaction with unprotected aminothiophene.
Enolizable Alkylidene Heterocyclic and Carbocyclic Carbonyl Systems­: Valuable Vinylogous Donor Substrates in Synthesis
Authors: Battistini Lucia , Curti Claudio , Rassu Gloria , Sartori Andrea , Zanardi Franca
Published: April 2017

Controlled vinylogous carbon–carbon bond-forming reactions are useful options for providing the selective remote functionalization of conjugated carbonyl substrates. Remotely enolizable alkylidene heterocyclic and carbocyclic carbonyl compounds are pro-nucleophilic substrates that may be engaged in highly valuable chemical transformations. This review emphasizes the merits of these recently discovered vinylogous donors in the chemo-, regio- and stereoselective synthesis of many functionality-rich products.

1 Introduction

2 Alkylidene Oxindoles

3 Alkylidene Pyrazolinones

4 Alkylidene Furanones

5 Alkylidene Azlactones

6 Cycloalkylidene Carbonyl Compounds

7 Alkylidene Indenones

8 Cycloalkylidene Malononitriles

9 Conclusion
Rhinoplasty Results Are Influenced by Non-nasal Features
Authors: Wang Frederick , Xu Ginger , Gruber Ronald
Published: April 2017

Rhinoplasty results are evaluated both objectively and subjectively following any procedure by plastic surgeons and nonplastic surgeons at meetings, in publications, and online. We aim to evaluate whether subjective aesthetics of non-nasal features, such as the eyes and lips, would influence the overall evaluation of rhinoplasty results. We matched pairs of photographs of patients who had undergone aesthetic rhinoplasty by sex, age, and skin tone. We transferred the eyes/eyebrows and lips from the photographs of the donor patient onto the photographs of the original patient to create composite photographs. Plastic surgeons were asked to rate the rhinoplasty results objectively, and non-plastic surgeons were asked to rate the overall attractiveness of 16 sets of photographs (8 originals and 8 composites). Postoperative photographs that were deemed to be more attractive were associated with higher ratings of rhinoplasty improvement. The objective nasal result may be influenced by non-nasal aesthetic factors as rhinoplasty surgeons gave higher ratings to more attractive faces. Greater emphasis on neutralizing non-nasal factors in pre- and postoperative photographs should be considered.
Dorsal Augmentation using Alloplastic Implants
Authors: Na Hyung , Jang Yong
Published: April 2017

Dorsal augmentation is an essential procedure not only for Asians, who generally have indistinct and poorly developed nasal bridges, but also for Africans and Caucasians, who have similar dorsal deficiencies. There is no single ideal implant or graft for dorsal augmentation. Dorsal augmentation with autologous materials is considered ideal by many surgeons. However, harvesting autologous material is associated with donor-site complications, and these materials are difficult to handle and shape. Despite concerns over complications such as infection, extrusion, and deviation, alloplastic implant materials such as silicone or Gore-Tex have a critically important role in typical cosmetic dorsal augmentation due to their ease of use in producing a cosmetically appealing outcome and evading donor-site complications. A thorough understanding of the shape of an aesthetically pleasing nose, appropriate surgical technique, and proper management methods for complications are the mainstay for the success of dorsal augmentation using alloplastic implants.
Midvault Reconstruction in Primary Rhinoplasty
Authors: Rudy Shannon , Moubayed Sami , Most Sam
Published: April 2017

The nasal midvault is an important consideration in rhinoplasty. This region is defined by the attachment of the upper lateral cartilages (ULCs) to the nasal bones superiorly and the cartilaginous septum medially. Inadequate management of the nasal midvault can have negative functional and aesthetic ramifications. Indications for midvault reconstruction in primary rhinoplasty include a narrow midvault, dorsal hump resection, a deviated midvault, and an asymmetric midvault, with an additional relative indication of zone 1 lateral wall insufficiency (LWI), defined as dynamic collapse of a weakened lateral nasal wall at the level of the ULC. Numerous techniques for midvault reconstruction have been described, dating back to Sheen's description of the spreader graft in the 1980s, which remains the gold standard for repair. Herein, the various indications for midvault reconstruction are described, along with a discussion of the most commonly used techniques for successful reconstruction.
Revision of the Nasal Dorsum
Authors: Moubayed Sami , Most Sam
Published: April 2017

Revision of the dorsum in secondary rhinoplasty is challenging, regardless of the cause. Dorsal deformities should be evaluated for both aesthetic and functional. The authors briefly outline the presentation, etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment choices backed by evidence-based data, when applicable, for the following dorsal revision indications in secondary rhinoplasty: inverted-V and midvault narrowing, overresected dorsum, irregular dorsum, saddle nose, and pollybeak.
Correcting Deviations of the Lower Third of the Nose
Authors: Moubayed Sami , Most Sam
Published: April 2017

By convention, a “deviated nose” is one in which the lower third is asymmetric with regard to the midline. The lower third of the nose is composed of the lower cartilages, as well as the dorsal and caudal nasal septum. Not only does the deviated nose cause a cosmetic deformity that is often disconcerting for patients, but it may also be associated with functional problems. Airway obstruction may result from a narrowed internal nasal valve in the middle third or from a deviated caudal septum in the lower third. The most common deviation involves both the middle and lower thirds and often requires addressing the underlying dorsal and caudal septum. The most effective technique to correct this type of deviation is the principle of extracorporeal septoplasty, either the traditional or modified, such as the anterior septal reconstruction (ASR) technique combined with the clocking suture. An isolated middle third deviation may be treated with a camouflage graft or a unilateral spreader graft. An isolated lower third deviation involving the septum should be treated with ASR. When an isolated lower third deviation only involves the lower cartilages, it may be corrected using suture techniques, cartilage division techniques, or grafting.
Treating the Deviated or Wide Nasal Dorsum
Authors: Davis Richard , Foulad Allen
Published: April 2017

Both deviation and excessive width of the nasal dorsum result in conspicuous facial disharmony and are often attended by nasal airway dysfunction. Whether the result of developmental growth disturbances, nasal trauma, failed nasal surgery, or combinations therein, deviation and splaying of the nasal dorsum can be exceedingly difficult to treat. Individualized treatment is paramount because contour variations are seemingly endless, and a careful preoperative assessment of the anatomic, physiologic, cosmetic, and psychosocial factors that characterize the deformity is necessary to devise an effective patient-specific treatment plan. Ensuring the linearity, strength, alignment, and aesthetically pleasing profile dimensions of the nasal L-strut is the requisite first step in successful treatment. Releasing all deformed components in a controlled and precise manner using powered instrumentation (whenever possible) to facilitate minimally traumatic and effective repositioning, followed by structural reconstitution of the skeletal framework using autologous graft materials, and then consolidation of the newly created construct with suture fixation completes the transformation to normalcy. Paying equal attention to both cosmetic and functional wellness, while simultaneously seeking to maximize structural stability, serves to optimize the final outcome.
Efficacy and Safety of Artiss Fibrin Tissue Sealant Use in Rhytidectomy: A Review of 120 Cases
Authors: Yamamoto Kyle , DeJoseph Louis
Published: April 2017

Hematoma formation has persisted as the most common complication in rhytidectomy. The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy and safety of Artiss (Baxter) for use in rhytidectomies. In addition, we determine the use of fibrin tissue sealants by facial plastic surgeons. In this retrospective chart review, 120 patients in a single private practice were identified who underwent a rhytidectomy from August 2013 to January 2015 by a single facial plastic surgeon. The last 60 rhytidectomies performed with Tisseel (Baxter) were compared with the first 60 rhytidectomies performed with Artiss.

All perioperative or postoperative complications were identified and recorded, focusing on the incidence of hematoma. In addition, a six-question survey was created and sent to all members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Results of the survey were recorded and analyzed for trends or patterns in the data. In total, 120 patients were assessed. In the Tisseel group, two complications of fluid collection requiring needle aspiration were recorded. No other complications were found. In the Artiss group, 10 complications were recorded, including 9 fluid collections requiring needle aspiration and 1 hematoma. In total, 179 members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery completed the six-question survey. Of all respondents, 61 (34%) use tissue sealants for rhytidectomies, whereas 118 (66%) do not. Artiss is efficacious and safe for use in rhytidectomies. Its use obviates the need for surgical drains, and complications are minimal and similar in rate to the use of Tisseel.
Liver Cancer Emergence Associated with Antiviral Treatment: An Immune Surveillance Failure?
Authors: Boix Loreto , Mariño Zoe , Torres Ferran , Forns Xavier , Bruix Jordi , Reig María
Published: April 2017

The availability of new direct antiviral agents to safely and effectively treat the hepatitis C virus represents a major advancement in the field of liver disease. Most patients achieve complete viral eradication sustained over time. In addition, the administration of these new agents is safe and does not require limitations when liver function is impaired. Some now expect the hepatitis C virus to be completely eradicated in a few years. However, not all data are positive. In April 2016, we published a cohort study suggesting that viral eradication with the new agents could be associated in time with the emergence of recurrent cancer sites in patients previously treated for hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we update our report and summarize the data provided in recent publications. We also speculate about the mechanisms for cancer emergence and stress the need for further studies.
Maternal Income during Pregnancy is Associated with Chronic Placental Inflammation at Birth
Authors: Keenan-Devlin Lauren , Ernst Linda , Ross Kharah , Qadir Sameen , Grobman William , Holl Jane , Crockett Amy , Miller Gregory , Borders Ann
Published: April 2017

Objective This study aims to examine whether maternal household income is associated with histological evidence of chronic placental inflammation.

Study Design A total of 152 participants completed surveys of household income and consented to placenta collection at delivery and postpartum chart review for birth outcomes. Placental inflammatory lesions were evaluated via histological examination of the membranes, basal plate, and villous parenchyma by a single, experienced pathologist. Associations between household income and the presence of inflammatory lesions were adjusted for known perinatal risk factors.

Results Overall, 45% of participants reporting household income below $30,000/y had chronic placental inflammation, compared with 25% of participants reporting income above $100,000 annually (odds ratio [OR] = 4.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.25, 14.28; p = 0.02). Middle-income groups showed intermediate rates of chronic inflammatory lesions, at 40% for those reporting $30,000 and 50,000 (OR = 3.60, 95% CI = 1.05, 12.53; p = 0.04) and 38% for those reporting $50,000 to 100,000 (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 0.60, 4.14; p = 0.36). Results remained significant after adjustment for maternal age, race, and marital status.

Conclusion Chronic placental inflammation is associated with maternal household income. Greater occurrence of placental lesions in low-income mothers may arise from a systemic inflammatory response to social and physical environmental factors.
High-Intensity Intermittent Exercise and Autonomic Modulation: Effects of Different Volume Sessions
Authors: Castrillón Carlos Iván Mesa , Miranda Rodolfo Augusto Travagin , Cabral-Santos Carolina , Vanzella Lais Manata , Rodrigues Bruno , Vanderlei Luiz Carlos Marques , Lira Fábio , Campos Eduardo Zapaterra
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to compare heart rate variability (HRV) recovery after 2 sessions of high-intensity intermittent exercise at different volumes (1.25 km [HIIE1.25] and 2.5 km [HIIE2.5]). 13 participants determined their maximal aerobic speed (MAS) and completed 2 HIIE (1:1 at 100% MAS) trials. The heart rate was recorded before and after each session. HRV indicators were calculated according to time (RMSSD and SDNN) and frequency (LF, HF and LF/HF ratio) domains. SDNN and RMSSD presented effect of test (F=20.97; p<0.01 and F=21.00; p<0.01, respectively) and moment (F=6.76; p<0.01 and F=12.30; p<0.01, respectively), without interaction. Even though we did not find an interaction effect for any HRV variables, the HIIE2.5 presented a delay of only 5 min in HRV recovery, when compared to HIIE1.25. However, the effects of the test (SDNN, RMSSD, LF-log, and HF-log) indicate higher autonomic stress during the entire recovery period. These findings may indicate that exercise volume interferes with HRV recovery. If so, physically active subjects may choose a lower volume exercise (i. e., HIIE1.25) in order to promote similar physical fitness adaptations with lower loading on autonomic modulation.
Effects of Hypertrophy Exercise in Bone Turnover Markers and Structure in Growing Male Rats
Authors: Nebot Elena , Aparicio Virginia , Pietschmann Peter , Camiletti-Moirón Daniel , Kapravelou Garyfallia , Erben Reinhold , Martínez Rosario , Sánchez-González Cristina , Porres Jesús , Llopis Juan , López-Jurado María , Aranda Pilar
Published: April 2017

The benefits of exercise on bone density, structure and turnover markers are rather controversial. The present study aimed to examine the effects of hypertrophy exercise (HE) on bone. 20 male Wistar rats were randomly distributed in 2 experimental groups, one performing HE and the other untrained over 12 weeks. Plasma parameters, bone mineral content, bone mineral density (BMD), structure, and trabecular and cortical microarchitecture were measured. Femur Mg content was 12% higher (p<0.001), whereas femur length, dry weight, P content, and aminoterminal propeptides of type I procollagen were lower in the HE group (all, p<0.05). Total BMD and cortical/subcortical BMD were higher (both, p<0.01), whereas total cross-sectional and trabecular areas were lower (both, p<0.001), and cortical area and thickness were lower in the HE (both, p<0.05). Trabecular connectivity density, number, mean density of total and bone volume were higher in the HE (all, p<0.05). Cortical volume fraction and the mean density of total volume of the diaphysis were lower, whereas the cortical volume density was higher in the HE (all, p<0.05). This HE protocol may have beneficial effect on cancellous bone microarchitecture, but it induces low bone formation and is associated with hypogonadism in growing male rats. However, this type of training might be inefficient to maintain appropriate cortical thickness.
NMO Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Pfeuffer Steffen , Strippel Christine , Wiendl Heinz
Published: April 2017

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) represent a rare subset of chronic-inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. Despite heterogeneities in disease activity, there is a higher degree of disability accumulation in NMOSD patients compared to MS patients. According to the revised diagnostic criteria, a recommendation was made to abandon the term NMO and to summarize these conditions as NMOSD. Clinical presentation of NMOSD patients in most cases is optic neuritis and transverse myelitis but nevertheless, NMOSD can affect most parts of the central nervous system (e. g. brainstem and hypothalamus). Originally characterized as AQP4-antibody-dependent disease, it has recently been discussed whether conditions with presence of antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) belong to the family of NMOSD. Due to the severity of the disease with often devastating relapses, systematic therapy is necessary. Usually, immunosuppressants or monoclonal antibodies with anti-inflammatory properties are used. Recently, four substances entered clinical testing for treatment of NMOSD.
Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE)
Authors: Kaiser Reinhard , Archelos-Garcia Juan-Jose , Jilg Wolfgang , Rauer Sebastian , Sturzenegger Mathias
Published: April 2017

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is an acute inflammation of the nervous system caused by a virus of the same name. Reservoirs for the TBE viruses are small rodents of the forest and meadows and rarely also goats, which explains the spatial limitation to endemic areas ("natural foci"). TBE virus is transmitted mainly by ticks, but occasionally also by products from non-pasteurized goat's milk. Infections can occur throughout the year, but most of the diseases present during the high summer months. More than 90% of infections occur during leisure time. However, it is a typical occupational disease for farmers and foresters. In approximately 70% of the patients, TBE manifests itself with a two-phase fever course.

After an incubation period of 5–28 days, the patients first develop a general feeling of illness, headaches and fever (prodromal phase). After a temporary improvement, a new episode of fever marks the beginning of the second phase of the disease a few days later. This is manifested in about 50% of the cases as isolated meningitis, in 40% as meningoencephalitis and in 10% as meningoencephalomyelitis. Frequently, there are quantitative and qualitative disturbances of consciousness and ataxia. The early onset of swallowing and speech disturbances, paralysis of the facial and throat muscles as well as the need for assisted ventilation indicates an unfavorable prognosis. In children and adolescents, TBE is often unspecific with the symptoms of a flu infection and thus more benign than in adults. With age, not only the course is more serious, but also the number of residual deficits increases.

The diagnosis is based on history with stays in a risk area, the neurological symptoms with marked impairment of the general condition, the demonstration of TBE-specific IgM and IgG antibodies in the blood and a pleocytosis in the CSF. No specific treatment for TBE is known so far, but TBE can be successfully prevented by active immunization. Vaccination is recommended for all persons who stay repeatedly in a risk area.
Proteomanalyse: Neue Wege zur verbesserten Behandlung der diabetischen Nephropathie
Authors: Drube Jens , Zürbig Petra , Beige Joachim , Mischak Harald , Jankowski Joachim
Published: April 2017

Chronische Nierenerkrankungen sind gekennzeichnet durch einen langsam fortschreitenden Verlust der Nierenfunktion, der schließlich zum Nierenversagen führt. Betroffene Patienten benötigen im Endstadium eine Nierenersatztherapie in Form der Dialyse und/oder Nierentransplantation mit erheblichen Konsequenzen sowohl für Mortalität als auch für die Lebensqualität der Patienten. Da die Prävalenz des Diabetes kontinuierlich deutlich steigt, nimmt gegenwärtig die diabetische Nephropathie (DN) als Dialyseursache zahlenmäßig den höchsten Rang ein. Die individuelle Behandlung der DN sowie der resultierenden kardiovaskulären Komplikationen in der frühen und damit einer Therapie zugänglichen Erkrankungsphase ist derzeit deutlich erschwert, da es an einer effektiven, nichtinvasiven, validen Routinediagnostik dieser Patienten mangelt. Die derzeit verwendeten Marker Serum-Kreatinin/eGFR und Albumin im Urin sind geeignet, um die DN in späteren Stadien abzubilden, jedoch sind sie von geringer Aussagekraft in der Erkennung von frühen Stadien. Eine neue diagnostische Methode ist die Analyse des Proteoms, der Gesamtheit aller Proteine und Peptide. Die Proteomanalyse hat die Identifikation von 273 Biomarkern im Urin zur Diagnostik chronischer Nierenerkrankungen ermöglicht. Ein auf diesen Biomarkern beruhender Klassifikator, CKD273, ermöglicht eine im Verhältnis zu den derzeit verwendeten Biomarkern signifikant bessere Identifizierung der DN. Die Daten zeigen vor allem eine Verbesserung der Früherkennung und Prognostik. Dies ermöglicht eine frühzeitige und gezielte Therapie und damit eine wesentlich verbesserte Option den fortschreitenden Verlust der Nierenfunktion aufzuhalten.
Critical Evaluation of NIR and ATR-IR Spectroscopic Quantifications of Rosmarinic Acid in Rosmarini folium Supported by Quantum Chemical Calculations
Authors: Kirchler Christian , Pezzei Cornelia , Beć Krzysztof , Henn Raphael , Ishigaki Mika , Ozaki Yukihiro , Huck Christian
Published: April 2017

The present study evaluates the analytical performance of near infrared as well as attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy for the determination of the rosmarinic acid content in Rosmarini folium. Therefore, the recorded near infrared and attenuated total reflection infrared spectra of 42 milled Rosmarini folium samples were correlated with reference data (range: 1.138–2.199 rosmarinic acid %) obtained by HPLC analysis. Partial least squares regression models were established as a quantitative multivariate data analysis tool. Evaluation via full cross-validation and test set validation resulted in comparable performances for both techniques: near infrared [coefficient of determination: 0.90 (test set validation); standard error of cross-validation: 0.060 rosmarinic acid %; standard error of prediction: 0.058 rosmarinic acid %] and attenuated total reflection infrared [coefficient of determination: 0.91 (test set validation); standard error of cross-validation: 0.063 rosmarinic acid %; standard error of prediction: 0.060 rosmarinic acid %]. Furthermore, quantum chemical calculations were applied to obtain a theoretical infrared spectrum of rosmarinic acid. Good agreement to the spectrum of pure rosmarinic acid was achieved in the lower wavenumber region, whereas the higher wavenumber region showed less compliance. The knowledge of the vibrational modes of rosmarinic acid was used for the association with the high values of the regression coefficient plots of the established partial least squares regression models.
Intra-chain organisation of hydrophobic residues controls inter-chain aggregation rates of amphiphilic polymers
Authors: Varilly Patrick , Willard Adam P. , Kirkegaard Julius B. , Knowles Tuomas P. J. , Chandler David
Published: April 2017

Aggregation of amphiphiles through the action of hydrophobic interactions is a common feature in soft condensed matter systems and is of particular importance in the context of biophysics as it underlies both the generation of functional biological machinery as well as the formation of pathological misassembled states of proteins. Here we explore the aggregation behaviour of amphiphilic polymers using lattice Monte Carlo calculations and show that the distribution of hydrophobic residues within the polymer sequence determines the facility with which dry/wet interfaces can be created and that such interfaces drive the aggregation process.
Assessing the potential of a low-carbon future for Cambodia
Authors: Asif Furqan , Marschke Melissa , Ngin Chanrith
Published: April 2017

This paper examines Cambodia's current carbon pathway and considers if Cambodia could move towards a low carbon future. We do so by examining two of Cambodia's largest carbon emitting sectors: energy and transportation. We argue that Cambodia has a unique window of opportunity to pursue a low carbon pathway given that, despite significant economic growth, the country is currently producing less CO2 per capita compared to most other countries across Asia. Cambodia could benefit greatly (in economic, social, and environmental terms) from adopting a low carbon pathway. Promising harbingers are present, such as recent shifts to hydropower, adoption of urban master plans, and citizen frustration with traffic congestion and poor air quality that may enable public buy-in for innovative low-carbon solutions. Achieving this will require sharpened and harmonized policy, approaching all planning activities from a low-carbon perspective, and support (both institutional and financial) from regional bodies and multilateral organizations.
Transition pathways for a sustainable low-carbon energy system in Thailand
Authors: Fungtammasan Bundit , Tippichai Atit , Otsuki Takashi , Tam Cecilia
Published: April 2017

As a non-Annex I country, Thailand has pledged its intended nationally determined contribution (INDC) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% from the projected business-as-usual (BAU) level by 2030 and by up to 25% with adequate and enhanced access to technology development and transfer, financial resources, and capacity building support. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how these targets could possibly be met, as far as energy-related CO2 emissions are concerned, and to propose alternative pathways for fast transition to a low-carbon and cleaner energy system along with its technology and research requirements. The study approach is based on the 6th Edition of APEC Energy Outlook for 2040 and the energy-related CO2 emissions scenarios developed at the Asia Pacific Energy Research Centre. It is found that Thailand's voluntary INDC target on energy-related emissions could be achieved by a combination of energy efficiency improvement efforts and deployment of renewable energy in line with their respective official plans. The higher conditional INDC target of 25% could also be reached by a natural gas dominated power sector, in addition to energy efficiency and renewable energy deployment measures, at the risk of worsening its energy security and increased cost of electricity. An alternative scenario that would not only meet the conditional INDC target but also lead to a fast transition towards a low-carbon and cleaner energy system by 2040 is possible. The scenario is based on a balanced approach, taking into account energy security, cost, and environment. It requires ambitious energy efficiency improvement (particularly in the transport sector) and renewable energy targets, and significant de-carbonization of the power sector. The scenario will see Thailand's energy-related CO2 emissions peaking around 2030 and a 45% cut below the projected BAU level in 2040. The technologies and research required to support the transition have also been identified for the power, transport, commercial buildings, and industry sectors.
Avalanche and edge-of-chaos criticality do not necessarily co-occur in neural networks
Authors: Kanders Karlis , Lorimer Tom , Stoop Ruedi
Published: April 2017

There are indications that for optimizing neural computation, neural networks may operate at criticality. Previous approaches have used distinct fingerprints of criticality, leaving open the question whether the different notions would necessarily reflect different aspects of one and the same instance of criticality, or whether they could potentially refer to distinct instances of criticality. In this work, we choose avalanche criticality and edge-of-chaos criticality and demonstrate for a recurrent spiking neural network that avalanche criticality does not necessarily entrain dynamical edge-of-chaos criticality. This suggests that the different fingerprints may pertain to distinct phenomena.
A self-consistent analytical model for the upstream magnetic-field and ion-beam properties in Weibel-mediated collisionless shocks
Authors: Ruyer C. , Gremillet L. , Bonnaud G. , Riconda C.
Published: April 2017

A theoretical and numerical analysis is carried out for turbulent collisionless shocks mediated by the ion-Weibel instability during high-velocity plasma collisions. We develop a simple model based on the coalescence dynamics of the ion current filaments, which predicts the spatio-temporal evolution of the magnetic fluctuations formed in the upstream plasma region. From comparison with particle-in-cell simulations, our model is shown to correctly capture the magnetic-field and ion-beam properties during the early-time shock propagation.
Supramolecular structure fluctuations of an imidazolium-based protic ionic liquid
Authors: Zorębski Edward , Zorębski Michał , Dzida Marzena , Lodowski Piotr , Kowalska-Szojda Katarzyna , Mirzaev Sirojiddin Z. , Kaatze Udo
Published: April 2017

At 20, 25, 30, and 40 °C, the ultrasonic absorption spectra of the protic ionic liquid 3-(butoxymethyl)-1H-imidazol-3-ium salicylate have been measured between 0.6 and 900 MHz. Below 250 MHz, the absorption coefficient decreases with temperature, potentially indicating a major effect of the viscosity and/or a relaxation time. Essentially the broad spectra can be favorably represented by two relaxation terms in addition to an asymptotic high-frequency contribution. One term reflects an asymmetric relaxation time distribution. It is described by a model of noncritical fluctuations in the structure and thermodynamic parameters of the liquid in order to yield the fluctuation correlation length and the mutual diffusion coefficient. Applying the Stokes–Einstein–Kawasaki–Ferrell relation, these quantities can be used to show that the effective shear viscosity controlling the fluctuations is substantially smaller than the steady-state shear viscosity. This result is consistent with dispersion in the shear viscosity as revealed by viscosity measurements at 25, 55, and 81 MHz. The other term can be well described by a Debye-type relaxation function. It has been tentatively assigned to a structural isomerization of the butoxymethyl chain of the imidazole molecule. However, it cannot be completely excluded that this term reflects, at least in parts, a Brønstedt acid–base equilibrium or a specific association process.
Atomic-batched tensor decomposed two-electron repulsion integrals
Authors: Schmitz Gunnar , Madsen Niels Kristian , Christiansen Ove
Published: April 2017

We present a new integral format for 4-index electron repulsion integrals, in which several strategies like the Resolution-of-the-Identity (RI) approximation and other more general tensor-decomposition techniques are combined with an atomic batching scheme. The 3-index RI integral tensor is divided into sub-tensors defined by atom pairs on which we perform an accelerated decomposition to the canonical product (CP) format. In a first step, the RI integrals are decomposed to a high-rank CP-like format by repeated singular value decompositions followed by a rank reduction, which uses a Tucker decomposition as an intermediate step to lower the prefactor of the algorithm. After decomposing the RI sub-tensors (within the Coulomb metric), they can be reassembled to the full decomposed tensor (RC approach) or the atomic batched format can be maintained (ABC approach). In the first case, the integrals are very similar to the well-known tensor hypercontraction integral format, which gained some attraction in recent years since it allows for quartic scaling implementations of MP2 and some coupled cluster methods. On the MP2 level, the RC and ABC approaches are compared concerning efficiency and storage requirements. Furthermore, the overall accuracy of this approach is assessed. Initial test calculations show a good accuracy and that it is not limited to small systems.
Dirac operator and its cohomology for the quantum group Uq(𝖘𝖑𝟐)
Authors: Pandžić Pavle , Somberg Petr
Published: April 2017

We introduce a Dirac operator D for the quantum group Uq(𝔰𝔩2), as an element of the tensor product of Uq(𝔰𝔩2) with the Clifford algebra on two generators. We study the properties of D, including an analogue of Vogan’s conjecture. We compute the cohomology of D acting on various Uq(𝔰𝔩2)-modules.
Dynamics of photoionization from molecular electronic wavepacket states in intense pulse laser fields: A nonadiabatic electron wavepacket study
Authors: Matsuoka Takahide , Takatsuka Kazuo
Published: April 2017

A theory for dynamics of molecular photoionization from nonadiabatic electron wavepackets driven by intense pulse lasers is proposed. Time evolution of photoelectron distribution is evaluated in terms of out-going electron flux (current of the probability density of electrons) that has kinetic energy high enough to recede from the molecular system. The relevant electron flux is in turn evaluated with the complex-valued electronic wavefunctions that are time evolved in nonadiabatic electron wavepacket dynamics in laser fields. To uniquely rebuild such wavefunctions with its electronic population being lost by ionization, we adopt the complex-valued natural orbitals emerging from the electron density as building blocks of the total wavefunction. The method has been implemented into a quantum chemistry code, which is based on configuration state mixing for polyatomic molecules. Some of the practical aspects needed for its application will be presented. As a first illustrative example, we show the results of hydrogen molecule and its isotope substitutes (HD and DD), which are photoionized by a two-cycle pulse laser. Photon emission spectrum associated with above threshold ionization is also shown. Another example is taken from photoionization dynamics from an excited state of a water molecule. Qualitatively significant effects of nonadiabatic interaction on the photoelectron spectrum are demonstrated.
Communication: Slow proton-charge diffusion in nanoconfined water
Authors: van der Loop Tibert H. , Ottosson Niklas , Vad Thomas , Sager Wiebke F. C. , Bakker Huib J. , Woutersen Sander
Published: April 2017

We investigate proton-charge mobility in nanoscopic water droplets with tuneable size. We find that the diffusion of confined proton charges causes a dielectric relaxation process with a maximum-loss frequency determined by the diffusion constant. In volumes less than ∼5 nm in diameter, proton-charge diffusion slows down significantly with decreasing size: for diameters <1 nm, the diffusion constant is about 100 times smaller than in bulk water. The low mobility probably results from the more rigid hydrogen-bond network of nanoconfined water, since proton-charge mobility in water relies on collective hydrogen-bond rearrangements.