bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health promotion and disease prevention in general practice and primary care: a scoping study
Authors: Peckham Stephen , Hann Alison , Kendall Sally , Gillam Steve
Published: August 2017

This paper reports the findings of a scoping review on the organisation and delivery of health improvement activities in general practice and the primary healthcare team. The project was designed to examine who delivers these interventions, where they are located, what approaches are developed in practices and how individual practices and the primary healthcare team organise such public health activities and how these contribute to health improvement. Our focus was on health promotion and prevention activities and aimed to identify the current extent of knowledge about the health improvement activities in general practice and the wider primary healthcare team. Many of the research studies reviewed had some details about the type, process, location or who provided the intervention. Little attention is paid in the literature to examining the impact of the organisational context on the way services are delivered or how this affects the effectiveness of health improvement interventions in general practice. We found that the focus of attention is mainly on individual prevention approaches with practices engaging in both primary and secondary prevention. Although many GPs do not take a population approach and focus on individual patients some do see health promotion as an integral part of practice – whether as individual approaches to primary or secondary health improvement or as a practice-based approach to improving the health of their patients. Based on our analysis we conclude that there is insufficient good evidence to support many of the health improvement interventions undertaken in general practice and primary care.
The difficulties of conflict classification at sea: Distinguishing incidents at sea from hostilities
Authors: von Heinegg Wolff Heintschel
Published: August 2017

Incidents at sea between warships and military aircraft often involve more than provocative actions – they may be aggressive and can sometimes result in death and destruction. In view of the low threshold of a resort to armed force by one State against another that would bring an international armed conflict into existence, it is rather difficult to determine whether incidents at sea remain below that threshold. Similar, albeit less difficult problems arise with regard to forceful measures taken by States against foreign merchant vessels. Here it is important to clearly distinguish between law enforcement at sea and the exercise of belligerent rights.
Blockage of the lysosome-dependent autophagic pathway contributes to complement membrane attack complex-induced podocyte injury in idiopathic membranous nephropathy
Authors: Liu Wei Jing , Li Zhi-hang , Chen Xiao-cui , Zhao Xiao-lu , Zhong Zhen , Yang Chen , Wu Hong-luan , An Ning , Li Wei-yan , Liu Hua-feng
Published: August 2017

Dysregulation of autophagy-mediated podocyte homeostasis is proposed to play a role in idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). In the present study, autophagic activity and lysosomal alterations were investigated in podocytes of IMN patients and in cultured podocytes exposed to sublytic terminal complement complex, C5b-9. C5b-9 upregulated the number of LC3 positive puncta and the expression of p62 in patient podocytes and in C5b-9 injuried podocyte model. The lysosomal turnover of LC3-II was not influenced, although the BECN1 expression level was upregulated after exposure of podocytes to C5b-9. C5b-9 also caused a significant increase in the number of autophagosomes but not autolysosomes, suggesting that C5b-9 impairs the lysosomal degration of autophagosomes. Moreover, C5b-9 exacerbated the apoptosis of podocytes, which could be mimicked by chloroquine treatment, indicating that C5b-9 triggered podocyte injury, at least partially through inhibiting autophagy. Subsequent studies revealed that C5b-9 triggered lysosomal membrane permeabilization, which likely caused the decrease in enzymatic activity, defective acidification of lysosomes, and suppression of DQ-ovalbumin degradation. Taken together, our results suggest that the lysosomal-dependent autophagic pathway is blocked by C5b-9, which may play a key role in podocyte injury during the development of IMN.
A novel method for genome-wide profiling of dynamic host-pathogen interactions using 3′ end enriched RNA-seq
Authors: Li Jie , He Liangliang , Zhang Yun , Xue Chunyi , Cao Yongchang
Published: August 2017

Marek’s disease is a contagious lymphoproliferative disease of chickens and typical model of viral oncogenesis. Mapping changes or different states over the course of infection for both host and pathogen would provide important insights into dynamic host-pathogen interactions. Here we introduced 3′ end enriched RNA-seq as a novel method to study host-pathogen interactions in chicken embryo fibroblasts cells challenged with Marek’s disease virus. The method allowed accurate profiling of gene expression and alternative polyadenylation sites for host and pathogen simultaneously. We totally identified 476 differentially expressed genes and 437 APA switching genes in host, including switching in tandem 3′ UTRs and switching between coding region and 3′ UTR. Most of these genes were related to innate immunity, apoptosis and metabolism, but two sets of genes overlapped a little, suggesting two complementary mechanisms in gene regulation during MDV infection. In summary, our results provided a relatively comprehensive insight into dynamic host-pathogen interactions in regulation of gene transcription during infection of Marek’s disease virus and suggested that 3′ end enriched RNA-seq was a promising method to investigate global host-pathogen interactions.
HIV-1 Nef-induced cardiotoxicity through dysregulation of autophagy
Authors: Gupta Manish K. , Kaminski Rafal , Mullen Brian , Gordon Jennifer , Burdo Tricia H. , Cheung Joseph Y. , Feldman Arthur M. , Madesh Muniswamy , Khalili Kamel
Published: August 2017

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of co-morbidity in HIV-1 positive patients, even those in whom plasma virus levels are well-controlled. The pathogenic mechanism of HIV-1-associated cardiomyopathy is unknown, but has been presumed to be mediated indirectly, owing to the absence of productive HIV-1 replication in cardiomyocytes. We sought to investigate the effect of the HIV-1 auxiliary protein, Nef, which is suspected of extracellular release by infected CD4+ T cells on protein quality control and autophagy in cardiomyocytes. After detection of Nef in the serum of HIV-1 positive patients and the accumulation of this protein in human and primate heart tissue from HIV-1/SIV-infected cells we employed cell and molecular biology approaches to investigate the effect of Nef on cardiomyocyte-homeostasis by concentrating on protein quality control (PQC) pathway and autophagy. We found that HIV-1 Nef-mediated inhibition of autophagy flux leads to cytotoxicity and death of cardiomyocytes. Nef compromises autophagy at the maturation stage of autophagosomes by interacting with Beclin 1/Rab7 and dysregulating TFEB localization and cellular lysosome content. These effects were reversed by rapamycin treatment. Our results indicate that HIV-1 Nef-mediated inhibition of cellular PQC is one possible mechanism involved in the development of HIV-associated cardiomyopathy.
Mouse strain differences in SSRI sensitivity correlate with serotonin transporter binding and function
Authors: Jin Zeng-liang , Chen Xiao-Fei , Ran Yu-hua , Li Xiao-rong , Xiong Jie , Zheng Yuan-yuan , Gao Na-na , Li Yun-Feng
Published: August 2017

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) bind 5-HT transporters, leading to the accumulation of 5-HT and amelioration of depression. Although different mouse strains show varying sensitivity to SSRIs in mouse models of depression, the underlying mechanism of these strain differences remains unclear. Here, the SSRI citalopram dose-dependently reduced immobility time in both the FST and TST in DBA/2J mice but not C57BL/6J mice, whereas fluoxetine showed the opposite results. Paroxetine similarly reduced immobility time in both strains. The affinity of citalopram for the 5-HT transporter was 700-fold higher in DBA/2J mice than in C57BL/6J mice, whereas the affinity of fluoxetine was 100-fold higher in C57BL/6J mice than in DBA/2J mice. Furthermore, high citalopram concentrations were required for [3H]5-HT uptake in C57BL/6J but not in DBA/2J mouse cortical synaptosomes, whereas fluoxetine showed the opposite results. The effects of paroxetine on 5-HT transporter binding and synaptosomal 5-HT uptake were similar in the two strains. These results suggest that immobility duration depends on 5-HT transporter binding levels, which lead to apparent strain differences in immobility time in the FST and TST. Furthermore, differences in 5-HT transporter binding may cause variations in SSRI effects on behaviors.
Cooperative interaction of BMP signalling and Foxn1 gene dosage determines the size of the functionally active thymic epithelial compartment
Authors: Swann Jeremy B. , Krauth Brigitte , Happe Christiane , Boehm Thomas
Published: August 2017

Thymopoiesis strictly depends on the function of the Foxn1 transcription factor that is expressed in the thymic epithelium. During embryonic development, initial expression of the Foxn1 gene is induced in the pharyngeal endoderm by mesenchyme-derived BMP4 signals. Here, by engineering a time-delayed feedback system of BMP inhibition in mouse embryos, we demonstrate that thymopoiesis irreversibly fails if Foxn1 gene expression does not occur during a defining time span in mid-gestation. We also reveal an epistatic interaction between the extent of BMP signalling and the gene dosage of Foxn1. Our findings illustrate the complexities of the early steps of thymopoiesis and indicate that sporadic forms of thymic hypoplasia in humans may result from the interaction of genes affecting the magnitude of BMP signalling and Foxn1 expression.
Low threshold Rhodamine-doped whispering gallery mode microlasers fabricated by direct laser writing
Authors: Tomazio Nathália B. , Boni Leonardo De , Mendonca Cleber R.
Published: August 2017

The combination of the outstanding properties of whispering gallery modes with both the flexibility and ease of processing of polymers is particularly attractive for photonics applications. However, the versatile fabrication of polymeric nano/microdevices with the desired photonic performance has proven challenging. Here, we report on lasing in Rhodamine B doped whispering gallery mode microcavities fabricated by direct laser writing via two-photon polymerization. Threshold pump energies as low as 12 nJ were achieved for free-space pulsed excitation at 532 nm. To the best of our knowledge, this is the lowest laser threshold attained for microcavities fabricated in a single step of femtosecond laser writing, a remarkable feat that stands out from other fabrication methods.
Development and inter-laboratory assessment of droplet digital PCR assays for multiplex quantification of 15 genetically modified soybean lines
Authors: Košir Alexandra Bogožalec , Spilsberg Bjørn , Holst-Jensen Arne , Žel Jana , Dobnik David
Published: August 2017

Quantification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and feed products is often required for their labelling or for tolerance thresholds. Standard-curve-based simplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is the prevailing technology, which is often combined with screening analysis. With the rapidly growing number of GMOs on the world market, qPCR analysis becomes laborious and expensive. Innovative cost-effective approaches are therefore urgently needed. Here, we report the development and inter-laboratory assessment of multiplex assays to quantify GMO soybean using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). The assays were developed to facilitate testing of foods and feed for compliance with current GMO regulations in the European Union (EU). Within the EU, the threshold for labelling is 0.9% for authorised GMOs per ingredient. Furthermore, the EU has set a technical zero tolerance limit of 0.1% for certain unauthorised GMOs. The novel multiplex ddPCR assays developed target 11 GMO soybean lines that are currently authorised, and four that are tolerated, pending authorisation in the EU. Potential significant improvements in cost efficiency are demonstrated. Performance was assessed for the critical parameters, including limits of detection and quantification, and trueness, repeatability, and robustness. Inter-laboratory performance was also determined on a number of proficiency programme and real-life samples.
A new multitalented azine ligand: elastic bending, single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation and a fluorescence turn-on Al(iii) sensor
Authors: Saini Anoop Kumar , Natarajan Kaushik , Mobin Shaikh M.
Published: August 2017

A multifunctional azine ligand with elastic bending with full phase retention, photoinduced SCSC transformation and sensitive Al3+ detection.
Molecular dynamics investigations of an indicator displacement assay mechanism in a liquid crystal sensor
Authors: Liu Qingyu , Zuo Fang , Zhao Zhigang , Chen Junxian , Xu Dingguo
Published: August 2017

Molecular dynamic simulations were applied to address the binding competition mechanism in an IDA based LC sensor system.
An atom-economical protocol for direct conversion of Baylis–Hillman alcohols to β-chloro aldehydes in water
Authors: Bikshapathi Raktani , Parvathaneni Sai Prathima , Jayathirtha Rao Vaidya
Published: August 2017

This paper describes an atom-economical strategy for the direct conversion of Baylis–Hillman alcohols to β-chloro aldehydes under metal free conditions with excellent functional group tolerance.
Optical and XPS evidence for the electrochemical generation of an N-heterocyclic carbene and its CS2adduct from the ionic liquid [bmim][PF6]
Authors: Aydogan Gokturk P. , Donmez S. E. , Ulgut B. , Türkmen Y. E. , Suzer S.
Published: August 2017

Electrochemical generation of an N-heterocyclic carbene–CS2adduct in air-ambient and under vacuum, and its confirmation by XPS.
Population Estimates, Health Care Characteristics, and Material Hardship Experiences of U.S. Children With Parent-Reported Speech-Language Difficulties: Evidence From Three Nationally Representative Surveys
Authors: Sonik Rajan A. , Parish Susan L. , Akobirshoev Ilhom , Son Esther , Rosenthal Eliana
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To provide estimates for the prevalence of parent-reported speech-language difficulties in U.S. children, and to describe the levels of health care access and material hardship in this population.

Method

We tabulated descriptive and bivariate statistics using cross-sectional data from the 2007 and 2011/2012 iterations of the National Survey of Children's Health, the 2005/2006 and 2009/2010 iterations of the National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs, and the 2004 and 2008 panels of the Survey of Income and Program Participation.

Results

Prevalence estimates ranged from 1.8% to 5.0%, with data from two of the three surveys preliminarily indicating increased prevalence in recent years. The largest health care challenge was in accessing care coordination, with 49%–56% of children with parent-reported speech-language difficulties lacking full access. Children with parent-reported speech-language difficulties were more likely than peers without any indications of speech-language difficulties to live in households experiencing each measured material hardship and participating in each measured public benefit program (e.g., 20%–22% experiencing food insecurity, compared to 11%–14% of their peers without any indications of speech-language difficulties).

Conclusions

We found mixed preliminary evidence to suggest that the prevalence of parent-reported speech-language difficulties among children may be rising. These children face heightened levels of material hardship and barriers in accessing health care.
Pd-catalyzed Auto-Tandem Cascades Based on N-Sulfonylhydrazones: Hetero- and Carbocyclization Processes
Authors: Valdés Carlos , Barroso Raquel , Cabal María
Published: August 2017

The Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling between N-tosylhydrazones and organic halides is a powerful method for the creation of C–C bonds. This transformation has been included recently in cascade processes in which the same catalyst promotes various independent catalytic steps, a process known as auto-tandem catalysis. This strategy proves to be very useful for the construction of relatively complex carbo- and heterocyclic structures, as well as for the generation of molecular diversity. This short review will cover the different Pd-catalyzed auto-tandem reactions­ involving N-tosylhydrazones organized by the bond-forming sequence: C–C/C–N and C–C/C–C. Some examples of related tandem reactions leading to acyclic compounds are also highlighted.

1 Introduction

2 Auto-Tandem C–C/C–N Bond-Forming Reactions

3 Auto-Tandem C–C/C–C Bond-Forming Reactions

4 Tandem Reactions for the Synthesis of Linear Molecules

5 Summary and Outlook
Orale Gesundheit und Schwangerschaft – Patientinnenbefragung anhand eines Fragebogens
Authors: Odermatt Tobias , Schötzau Andreas , Hoesli Irene
Published: August 2017

Hintergrund und Fragestellung  Die vorliegende Studie ging der Frage nach, wie gut die schwangeren Patientinnen über die Ursachen und Auswirkungen einer Schwangerschaftsgingivitis informiert waren. Die Faktoren Alter, Bildung und Herkunft sollten untersucht werde. Daten zum Mundhygieneverhalten sollten aufgenommen und Unterschiede zwischen ambulanten und stationären Schwangeren aufgezeigt werden. Mögliche Risikofaktoren bezüglich des Geburtsoutcomes galt es zu definieren. Methodik  Anhand eines Fragebogens wurden 83 Patientinnen (40 ambulant/43 stationär) zum Mundhygieneverhalten und zum Wissensstand bezüglich den Ursachen und Auswirkungen einer Gingivitis befragt. Bei 50 Patientinnen wurden zusätzlich die Daten über das Geburtsoutcome erhoben. Ergebnisse  Beim Vergleich wie gut die Schwangeren über die Auswirkungen einer Gingivitis informiert waren, schnitten die stationären Studienteilnehmerinnen signifikant besser ab, als die ambulanten Patientinnen. Die Bildung hatte mit einem p-Wert von 0,016 einen statistisch signifikanten Einfluss auf das Geburtsoutcome. 24% der Befragten wurden von ihrem Arzt oder Zahnarzt über besondere Mundhygienemassnahmen während der Schwangerschaft informiert. Subjektiv wahrgenommene Entzündungszeichen wie z.B. Bluten beim Zähneputzen traten bei mehr als der Hälfte der Befragten auf. Auch Emesis gehörte mit 31% zu einem häufig verbreiteten Schwangerschaftsgebrechen. 24% der Studienteilnehmerinnen gaben an, die Mundhygiene während der Schwangerschaft mit zusätzlichen Mundhygienehilfsmitteln zu verbessern. 27% der Befragten waren seit über einem Jahr nicht mehr in einer zahnärztlichen Kontrolle. Fazit Laut der vorliegenden Studie wurde nur jede vierte Schwangere von ihrem Gynäkologen über einen Zahnarztbesuch informiert. Diese tiefe Aufklärungsrate seitens der Gynäkologen mag zu einem Grossteil daran liegen, dass parodontale Erkrankungen dem Gynäkologen und Geburtshelfer nur wenig vertraut sind und daher auch weniger Beachtung finden. Sinnvollerweise würde die Gynäkologin bzw. der Gynäkologe der Schwangeren bereits beim ersten Kontrolluntersuch zu einem Besuch beim Zahnarzt raten. Insbesondere die Risikogruppen gilt es möglichst früh zu sensibilisieren und zur Verbesserung der Mundhygiene zu motivieren. Hier kommt der Zusammenarbeit zwischen Gynäkologen und Zahnärzten eine besondere Bedeutung zu.
Interpretation der Intraokularlinsenkonstanten für die Haigis-Formel
Authors: Schröder Simon , Wagenpfeil Stefan , Leydolt Christina , Menapace Rupert , Langenbucher Achim
Published: August 2017

Hintergrund Die Haigis-Formel nutzt eine lineare Regression mit 3 IOL-Konstanten für die Vorhersage der effektiven postoperativen Linsenposition (ELP) der Intraokularlinse (IOL), ELP ≈ a0 + a1 ACD + a2 L, auf Basis der präoperativen Vorderkammertiefe (ACD) und Achslänge (L).

Material und Methoden Unterschiede zwischen den IOL-Konstanten-Tripletts können anhand ihrer statistischen Messunsicherheit eingeordnet werden. Um zu untersuchen, ob die Abschätzung der mittleren ELP mithilfe der mittleren ACD und mittleren L gemäß 〈ELP〉 ≈ a0 + a1 〈ACD〉 + a2 〈L〉 eine mögliche Alternative darstellt, haben wir beide Methoden verglichen. Dazu wurden die Ergebnisse aus 2 unterschiedlichen Optimierungsstrategien für die IOL-Konstanten a0, a1, a2 für 2 unterschiedliche IOL genutzt.

Ergebnisse Die Abschätzung der mittleren ELP ist zur groben Einordnung der IOL-Konstanten geeignet. Die Konfidenzvolumina in Form von Ellipsoiden basierend auf den statistischen Messunsicherheiten der IOL-Konstanten-Optimierungen erlauben eine genauere Beurteilung der Unterschiede zwischen verschiedenen IOL-Konstanten-Tripletts a0, a1, a2.
Die Bedeutung des Migrationshintergrundes für Einweisungsmodus, Krankheitseindruck und Verweildauer in der stationären pädiatrischen Versorgung
Authors: Ullrich Sebastian , Nesterko Yuriy , Briel Diana , Hiemisch Andreas , Brähler Elmar , Glaesmer Heide
Published: August 2017

Hintergrund In der nationalen und internationalen Literatur lassen sich vermehrt Unterschiede hinsichtlich Gesundheit sowie Gesundheitsverhalten von Kindern und Jugendlichen mit und ohne Migrationshintergrund finden. Zudem gibt es Berichte, die ein unterschiedliches Inanspruchnahmeverhalten der Versorgungsdienste in Abhängigkeit vom Migrationshintergrund feststellen.

Patienten und Methoden Von 266 allgemeinpädiatrischen Konsekutivpatienten wurden Angaben zu Einweisungsmodus, allgemeinem Krankheitseindruck sowie Verweildauer in Abhängigkeit des Migrationshintergrundes analysiert. Angaben zum Migrationshintergrund sowie behandlungsbezogene Daten stammten von den Eltern der Patienten bzw. aus den im Krankenhausinformationssystem (SAP) archivierten Dokumenten. 20,7% der Patienten (n=55) wiesen einen Migrationshintergrund auf.

Ergebnisse Migranten wurden häufiger als Nichtmigranten unter einer Beteiligung der Rettungsstelle stationär aufgenommen, zudem zeigten Migranten einen schwerwiegenderen Krankheitseindruck. Hinsichtlich der Anzahl der Diagnosen, der Aufenthaltsdauer sowie der Verteilung der Hauptdiagnosen wurden keine Unterschiede festgestellt.

Diskussion Erlebte Sprachbarrieren, kulturspezifische Krankheitsvorstellungen sowie unzureichende Kenntnisse über das Krankheitssystem des Aufnahmelandes wurden als mögliche Gründe für die vorgefundenen Unterschiede zwischen Migranten und Nichtmigranten diskutiert.

Schlussfolgerung Die vorliegende Studie konnte die bekannten Unterschiede in der Inanspruchnahme der Gesundheitsdienste durch Menschen mit und ohne Migrationshintergrund z. T. bestätigen und liefert Hinweise, die auf einen schwerwiegenderen Krankheitseindruck von Migranten im Vergleich zu Nichtmigranten bei der stationären Aufnahme deuten lassen. Zukünftige Arbeiten mit größeren Fallzahlen sollten gezielt diesen Hinweisen nachgehen.
Kreuzschmerzen aus viszeralosteopathischer Sicht
Authors: Bonacker Michael
Published: August 2017

Sport hält gesund und fit bis ins hohe Alter. Was aber, wenn durch Sport körperliche Schmerzen entstehen? So vermeintlich auch im Falle
meiner 41-jährigen Patientin. Sie fährt seit vielen Jahren Rennrad, kein Berg zu hoch, keine Strecke zu lang. Plötzlich treten bei ihr
lumbosakralen Übergang Kreuzschmerzen auf, und zwar nicht beim Radfahren, sondern in der sportfreien Zeit. Nachdem die Patientin in einem
Behandlungsabstand von 10 Tagen 2-mal osteopathisch behandelt worden und es immer nur zu einer kurzfristigen Besserung gekommen war, konnte
von einem hinzugezogenen Gynäkologen als Ursache ein Uterus myomatosus diagnostiziert werden. Nach der Operation war die Patientin
beschwerdefrei.
Tropfen statt spritzen? Der Traum von einer Therapie von Makulaerkrankungen mit Augentropfen
Authors: Zeitz Oliver , Joussen Antonia
Published: August 2017

Hintergrund Die Therapie der neovaskulären altersbedingten Makuladegeneration (AMD) wurde durch VEGF-Inhibitoren revolutioniert. Allerdings erfordert die Therapie regelmäßige intravitreale operative Medikamentengaben (IVOM). Daher gibt es intensive Forschungs- und Entwicklungsarbeit, die IVOM-Behandlung durch eine topische Therapie mit Augentropfen zu ersetzen.

Material und Methoden Literatur- und Datenbankrecherche zum Thema topische Therapie bei neovaskulärer AMD.

Ergebnisse In der näheren Vergangenheit wurden mehrere klinische Projekte mit topisch applizierten Inhibitoren des VEGF-Signalwegs initiiert. Es gibt verschiedene Wirkstoffe, insbesondere Tyrosinkinaseinhibitoren, die hinsichtlich ihrer Fähigkeit, den VEGF-A-Signalweg zu blockieren, für die Therapie der neovaskulären AMD geeignet sein müssten. Präklinische Experimente waren vielversprechend. Eine Translation in die Klinik ist bislang aber nicht gelungen. Als wesentliches Entwicklungshemmnis müssen Unterschiede in der Pharmakokinetik in präklinischen Modellen und am Menschen angenommen werden. Für eine erfolgreiche Implementierung in die Klinik müssen insbesondere Algorithmen zur Überwachung der Krankheitsaktivität entwickelt werden, da ansonsten durch Augentropfen zwar IVOM-Behandlungen reduziert werden, die Patienten aber keine zusätzliche Unabhängigkeit durch weniger Arztbesuche gewinnen.

Diskussion Für eine erfolgreiche Entwicklung topischer Therapien müssen wissenschaftliche Grundlagen insbesondere im Bereich der Präklinik geschaffen werden, um Kandidaten für die klinische Entwicklung gezielt auszuwählen.
Tellurium quantum dots: Preparation and optical properties
Authors: Lu Chaoyu , Li Xueming , Tang Libin , Lai Sin Ki , Rogée Lukas , Teng Kar Seng , Qian Fuli , Zhou Liangliang , Lau Shu Ping
Published: August 2017

Herein, we report an effective and simple method for producing Tellurium Quantum dots (TeQDs), zero-dimensional nanomaterials with great prospects for biomedical applications. Their preparation is based on the ultrasonic exfoliation of Te powder dispersed in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone. Sonication causes the van der Waals forces between the structural hexagons of Te to break so that the relatively coarse powder breaks down into nanoscale particles. The TeQDs have an average size of about 4 nm. UV-Vis absorption spectra of the TeQDs showed an absorption peak at 288 nm. Photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and photoluminescence (PL) are used to study the optical properties of TeQDs. Both the PLE and PL peaks revealed a linear relationship against the emission and excitation energies, respectively. TeQDs have important potential applications in biological imaging and catalysis as well as optoelectronics.
Ultra-low intensity UV detection using partitioned mesoporous TiO2
Authors: Javadi Mohammad , Torbatiyan Hadis , Abdi Yaser
Published: August 2017

We report five orders of magnitude enhancement in the detection of ultra-low intensity UV light using a partitioned mesoporous TiO2. The device shows a responsivity of ∼ 0.1 A/W at the incident intensity of 100 μW cm−2. The responsivity is slightly dropped to ∼0.01 A/W at the ultra-low intensity of 14 μW cm−2. High responsivity of the partitioned structure is attributed to the increment of electron diffusion length due to anisotropic and directional diffusive transport. Results show that the partitioned mesoporous TiO2 behaves as a quasi-one dimensional transport media.
Three dimensional dual-band phase gradient metamaterial based on Pancharatnam-Berry phase
Authors: Zheng Qiqi , Li Yongfeng , Pang Yongqiang , Chen Hongya , Sui Sai , Yang Jingfan , Ma Hua , Qu Shaobo , Zhang Jieqiu
Published: August 2017

A three dimensional (3D) dual-band phase gradient metamaterial (PGM) is proposed based on the Pancharatnam-Berry phase approach in this work. First, a 3D dual-band co-polarization reflection metamaterial under circularly polarized (CP) wave incidence was achieved by a vertical metallic Split-Ring Resonator (SRR). The co-polarization reflection efficiency is more than 90% over the spectra 4.78 GHz–4.92 GHz and 11.2 GHz–12.8 GHz. The underlying physical mechanism for co-polarization reflection is analyzed by using the scattering matrix approach. Then, the dual-band PGM is constructed by utilizing the vertical metallic SRR with different rotation angles. The PGM can achieve surface wave coupling and efficiently anomalous reflection, respectively, in the two spectra under CP wave incidence. Due to the opposite phase gradients for left-handed circularly polarized and right-handed circularly polarized wave incidence, the incidence linearly polarized wave was divided into two beams of CP waves and coupled into surface waves or anomalously reflected along opposite directions. Both the simulated and measured results demonstrated the great performances of dual-band PGMs.
Critical size ratio for coalescence-induced droplet jumping on superhydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Wang Kai , Li Ruixin , Liang Qianqing , Jiang Rui , Zheng Yi , Lan Zhong , Ma Xuehu
Published: August 2017

The mechanism of coalescence-induced droplet jumping on superhydrophobic surfaces has been relatively well-established over the years. Most of the related studies are only considering the coalescence process of equal-sized water droplets. However, the coalescence of droplets with different sizes is actually more frequently encountered and the effect of the size ratio on droplet jumping is very crucial to the hydrodynamics of this process. In this work, the effect of the initial droplet size ratio on coalescence-induced jumping of two water droplets is investigated experimentally and numerically. For the previously reported jumping droplet sizes (∼1–100 μm), it is found that the critical droplet size ratio below which the jumping does not occur is about 0.56. The results agree well with the experimental data as the size ratios of observed jumping events collapse into the predicted jumping regime. These findings will gain insights into droplet jumping which has great potential in a number of industrial processes.
Highly efficient solution-processed phosphorescent organic light-emitting devices with double-stacked hole injection layers
Authors: Chen Yuehua , Hao Lin , Zhang Xinwen , Zhang Xiaolin , Liu Mengjiao , Zhang Mengke , Wang Jiong , Lai Wen-Yong , Huang Wei
Published: August 2017

In this paper, solution-processed nickel oxide (NiOx) is used as hole-injection layers (HILs) in solution-processed phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (PhOLEDs). Serious exciton quenching is verified at the NiOx/emitting layer (EML) interface, resulting in worse device performance. The device performance is significantly improved by inserting a layer of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS) between the EML and NiOx. The solution-processed blue PhOLED with the double-stacked NiOx/PEDOT:PSS HILs shows a maximum current efficiency of 30.5 cd/A, which is 75% and 30% higher than those of the devices with a single NiOx HIL and a PEDOT:PSS HIL, respectively. Improvement of device efficiency can be attributed to reducing exciton quenching of the PEDOT:PSS layer as well as the electron blocking effect of the NiOx layer.
The third sector of R&D: literature review, basic analysis, and research agenda
Authors: Hallonsten Olof
Published: August 2017

The third sector of national innovation systems comprises non-academic, publicly owned R&D organizations that complement universities and private-sector firms and are normally called ‘research institutes’. Scholarly attention to these organizations has been scarce, partly a consequence of the theoretical imbalance in favor of conceptualizations of innovation processes as requiring mainly universities, private-sector firms, and governmental authorities to occur and succeed. Similarly, while this third sector often makes up a significant share of national innovation systems, it receives less attention in national research and innovation policy than do, say, universities. This paper argues that the role(s) and function(s) of third sector research institutes deserve to be mapped and analyzed in greater detail in order to understand how various organizational actors interact to produce innovation. From a comprehensive literature review and basic analysis of three institute groups in three Nordic countries, the paper makes a first preliminary analysis of the topic. While this analysis yields some interesting conclusions, its main function is to point the way for future studies. In these, other actors in the system should be investigated in thorough empirical studies, armed with tools from classic sociological systems theory that enhance the conceptual strength of the innovation systems framework and enable the acknowledgement of the role(s) and function(s) of several important organizational actors, not least research institutes.
Association Between Maternal Body Mass Index in Early Pregnancy and Incidence of Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Villamor Eduardo , Tedroff Kristina , Peterson Mark , Johansson Stefan , Neovius Martin , Petersson Gunnar , Cnattingius Sven
Published: August 2017

(Abstracted from JAMA 2017;317(9):925–936)

Prevalence of cerebral palsy (CP) rose between 1998 and 2006, and few preventable risk factors are known for this most common pediatric motor disability. Maternal obesity, a risk factor for neonatal complications such as preterm delivery and asphyxia-related neonatal morbidities, has been suggested to be associated with CP.
Case of Nonspinal Osteomyelitis Due to Bartonella and Review of the Literature
Authors: Joychan Sonia , Kuchipudi Yamini , Danielsky Paul J. , Bovid Karen M. , Garg Deepak
Published: August 2017

Spine osteomyelitis resulting from Bartonella infection is well described in the literature; however, little is known about nonspinal manifestations of Bartonella osteomyelitis. Here, we describe a case of femur osteomyelitis in a 5-year-old child and review the literature related to nonspinal manifestations of Bartonella. In the 33 cases reviewed, infection of the pelvic girdle was most commonly observed (42%), followed by femur (21%) and humerus infections (21%). Fever was the most common symptom, and interestingly, 18% of patients did not have any history of cat exposure. Osteomyelitis was most commonly identified by magnetic resonance imaging; however, Bartonella serology and tissue polymerase chain reaction testing were also positive when used. Recovery for most patients occurred after combination antibiotic therapy and did not require surgical debridement. In our patient, full recovery was achieved through surgical debridement and stabilization of the bone, followed by antibiotics.
The Prevention of Recurrent Cholesteatoma in CWU Surgery: The Use of Titanium Sheeting
Authors: Black Bruce , Gutteridge Ian
Published: August 2017

Objective:

Assessment of the outcomes of a technique of prevention of recurrent cholesteatoma in canal wall up (CWU) mastoidectomy, using titanium sheeting to repair the external auditory canal wall.

Patients:

Sixty four cholesteatoma cases were managed during a period from 2007 to 2015. The cases were unselected; the surgery was performed by the senior author. Cholesteatoma Patterns Were: Forty two attic, nine pars tensa, seven combined attic-pars tensa, three congenital, and three other. Primary surgery was undertaken in 33 cases.

Interventions:

All cases underwent CWU surgery that employed canal wall repair using fine titanium sheeting combined with overlying organic material to repair canal wall defects. Drum repairs employed cymba conchae cartilage-perichondrium composite grafts. Chain reconstruction used Spanner struts or Grace Alto PORPs or TORPS.

Results:

Two cases suffered mesotympanic residual disease, and three, mesotympanic recurrence one of which extended into the attic. Two other cases incurred atticomastoid residues. Transient myringitis occurred in three cases.

Conclusion:

The surgery was judged on its ability to avoid atticomastoid recurrence, and was regarded as highly successful. The titanium sheeting offers a relatively simple but effective technique. The mesotympanic complications are those also commonly found in both CWD and other CWU methods. As in other CWU procedures, the problems of the open cavity were avoided.
Long-acting Reversible Contraception Among Homeless Women Veterans With Chronic Health Conditions
Authors: Gawron Lori M. , Redd Andrew , Suo Ying , Pettey Warren , Turok David K. , Gundlapalli Adi V.
Published: August 2017

Background:

US women Veterans are at increased risk of homelessness and chronic health conditions associated with unintended pregnancy. Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provision of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) can assist in healthy pregnancy planning.

Objectives:

To evaluate perinatal risk factors and LARC exposure in ever-homeless women Veterans.

Research Design:

A retrospective cohort study of women Veterans using VHA administrative data from fiscal years 2002–2015.

Subjects:

We included 41,747 ever-homeless women Veterans age 18–44 years and 46,391 housed women Veterans matched by military service period. A subgroup of 7773 ever-homeless and 8674 matched housed women Veterans deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan [Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn (OEF/OIF/OND)] conflicts comprised a second analytic cohort.

Measures:

Descriptive statistics compared demographic, military, health conditions, and LARC exposure in ever-homeless versus housed women Veterans. Multivariable logistic regression explored factors associated with LARC exposure in the OEF/OIF/OND subgroup.

Results:

All health conditions were significantly higher in ever-homeless versus housed Veterans: mental health disorder in 84.5% versus 48.7% (P<0.001), substance abuse in 35.8% versus 8.6% (P<0.001), and medical conditions in 74.7% versus 55.6% (P<0.001). LARC exposure among all VHA users was 9.3% in ever-homeless Veterans versus 5.4% in housed Veterans (P<0.001). LARC exposure in the OEF/OIF/OND cohort was 14.1% in ever-homeless Veterans versus 8.2% in housed Veterans (P<0.001). In the OEF/OIF/OND cohort, homelessness along Veterans with medical and mental health indicators were leading LARC exposure predictors.

Conclusions:

The VHA is successfully engaging homeless women Veterans and providing LARC access. The prevalence of perinatal risk factors in ever-homeless women Veterans highlights a need for further programmatic enhancements to improve reproductive planning.
Outcomes of Robotic Sacrocolpopexy Using Only Absorbable Suture for Mesh Fixation
Authors: Linder Brian J. , Anand Mallika , Klingele Christopher J. , Trabuco Emanuel C. , Gebhart John B. , Occhino John A.
Published: August 2017

(Abstracted from Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2017;23:13–16)

Following the introduction of abdominal sacrocolpopexy over 50 years ago, the procedure achieved excellent long-term anatomic success rates for the treating apical pelvic organ prolapse. However, the procedure is associated with significant morbidity.
Anesthesia and Developing Brains—Implications of the FDA Warning
Authors: Andropoulos Dean B. , Greene Michael F.
Published: August 2017

(Abstracted from N Engl J Med 2017;376(10):905–907)

A recent US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug safety communication on the use of general anesthesia and sedation drugs in pregnant women and children younger than 3 years warned that use of anesthesia for more than 3 hours or repeated anesthesia exposure “may affect the development of children’s brains.” This warning will likely be added to the labels of many common general anesthetics and sedatives and will lead to some changes in practice.
The Tissue-Engineered Tendon-Bone Interface: In Vitro and In Vivo Synergistic Effects of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells, Platelet-Rich Plasma, and Extracellular Matrix Hydrogel
Authors: McGoldrick Rory , Chattopadhyay Arhana , Crowe Christopher , Chiou Grace , Hui Kenneth , Farnebo Simon , Davis Christopher , Le Grand Anais , Jacobs Molly , Pham Hung , Chang James
Published: August 2017

Background:

Suboptimal healing of the tendon-bone interface remains an unsolved problem. The authors hypothesized that (1) platelet-rich plasma and prolonged in vitro incubation will produce interface scaffolds with greater reseeding of viable adipose-derived stem cells; and (2) when implanted with extracellular matrix hydrogel, constructs will display superior in vivo strength repair and biocompatibility.

Methods:

Achilles-calcaneal composite tendon-bone interface scaffold grafts were harvested from 30 Wistar rats. After physicochemical decellularization and lyophilization, scaffolds were revitalized in rat plasma or 100% activated rat platelet-rich plasma and reseeded with viable adipose-derived stem cells. For part 2 of the study, 90 Sprague-Dawley rats underwent reconstruction with one of five decellularized, lyophilized scaffold revitalization/reseeding conditions: (1) phosphate-buffered saline; (2) lyophilized, 100% activated platelet-rich plasma; (3) platelet-rich plasma and extracellular matrix hydrogel; (4) platelet-rich plasma and 14-day reseeding with ASC-luc2-eGFP cells; and (5) plasma, reseeding, and hydrogel.

Results:

In part 1, platelet-rich plasma–revitalized grafts demonstrated greater live viable adipose-derived stem cell loads at 3, 7, and 14 days and total adipose-derived stem cell loads at 7 and 14 days with visibly greater live surface cellularity, layering, migration, and penetration. In part 2, bioluminescence imaging confirmed cell viability to day 22 after implantation. Biomechanical strength testing demonstrated a significant increase in ultimate failure load for reseeded groups compared with all other groups at week 2, whereas only reseeded grafts with hydrogel remained significantly stronger at weeks 4 and 8. Histologic examination demonstrated most increased tendinous cellular invasion and fibrocartilage repopulation at 8 weeks in the reseeded group with hydrogel. Masson trichrome staining demonstrated persistence of the scaffold structure at week 8 and blinded ImageJ analysis demonstrated significantly more type III collagen in the reseeded/hydrogel group at 2, 4, and 8 weeks.

Conclusions:

Decellularized lyophilized allogeneic tendon-bone interface scaffolds can be optimized by revitalization in platelet-rich plasma, reseeding with viable adipose-derived stem cells, and supplemented by an extracellular matrix tendon hydrogel at the time of implantation. When this is done, they display greater repair strength and biocompatibility.
Clinical and Quantitative Isokinetic Comparison of Abdominal Morbidity and Dynamics following DIEP versus Muscle-Sparing Free TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Uda Hirokazu , Kamochi Hideaki , Sarukawa Syunji , Sunaga Ataru , Sugawara Yasushi , Yoshimura Kotaro
Published: August 2017

Background:

The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap, which is a modification of the muscle-sparing free transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flap, is being more frequently used in an effort to reduce postoperative abdominal morbidity. However, there is no consensus as to which of these flaps is superior. The authors aimed to compare quantitative measurements of abdominal function obtained with an isokinetic dynamometer after DIEP and muscle-sparing free TRAM flap elevation.

Methods:

Patients who underwent unilateral single-pedicled DIEP (n = 42) or muscle-sparing free TRAM flap (n = 36) breast reconstruction performed by a single surgeon were included in this study. Preoperative and postoperative trunk flexion parameters were measured prospectively using an isokinetic dynamometer in all patients. The occurrence of postoperative pain, stiffness, and bulging along with patient activity level were also investigated.

Results:

At 3 months postoperatively, abdominal functions were decreased in both groups, with a larger decline in the muscle-sparing free TRAM flap group. However, at 6 months postoperatively, abdominal muscle function recovered to preoperative levels in both groups. These findings were consistent with the absence of a statistically significant difference in patient postoperative abdominal pain and stiffness, activity level, and the incidence of bulging between the two groups at 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusion:

From these results, we propose that the surgeon can select the muscle-sparing free TRAM flap, without hesitation or concern regarding abdominal morbidity, when a thick and reliable perforator does not exist and multiple thin perforators must be incorporated.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, III.
The Dynamics of Error Processing in the Human Brain as Reflected by High-Gamma Activity in Noninvasive and Intracranial EEG
Authors: Völker Martin , Fiederer Lukas D. J. , Berberich Sofie , Hammer Jiří , Behncke Joos , Kršek Pavel , Tomášek Martin , Marusič Petr , Reinacher Peter C. , Coenen Volker A. , Helias Moritz , Schulze-Bonhage Andreas , Burgard Wolfram , Ball Tonio
Published: August 2017

Error detection in motor behavior is a fundamental cognitive function heavily relying on cortical information processing. Neural activity in the high-gamma frequency band (HGB) closely reflects such local cortical processing, but little is known about its role in error processing, particularly in the healthy human brain. Here we characterize the error-related response of the human brain based on data obtained with noninvasive EEG optimized for HGB mapping in 31 healthy subjects (15 females, 16 males), and additional intracranial EEG data from 9 epilepsy patients (4 females, 5 males). Our findings reveal a comprehensive picture of the global and local dynamics of error-related HGB activity in the human brain. On the global level as reflected in the noninvasive EEG, the error-related response started with an early component dominated by anterior brain regions, followed by a shift to parietal regions, and a subsequent phase characterized by sustained parietal HGB activity. This phase lasted for more than 1 s after the error onset. On the local level reflected in the intracranial EEG, a cascade of both transient and sustained error-related responses involved an even more extended network, spanning beyond frontal and parietal regions to the insula and the hippocampus. HGB mapping appeared especially well suited to investigate late, sustained components of the error response, possibly linked to downstream functional stages such as error-related learning and behavioral adaptation. Our findings establish the basic spatio-temporal properties of HGB activity as a neural correlate of error processing, complementing traditional error-related potential studies.

Significance Statement

There is great interest to understand how the human brain reacts to errors in goal-directed behavior. An important index of cortical and subcortical information processing is fast oscillatory brain activity, particularly in the high-gamma band (above 50 Hz). Here we show that it is possible to detect signatures of errors in event-related high-gamma responses with noninvasive techniques, characterize these responses comprehensively, and validate the EEG procedure for the detection of such signals. In addition, we demonstrate the added value of intracranial recordings pinpointing the fine-grained spatio-temporal patterns in error-related brain networks. We anticipate that the optimized noninvasive EEG techniques as described here will be helpful in many areas of cognitive neuroscience where fast oscillatory brain activity is of interest.