bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A sensitive acupuncture needle microsensor for real-time monitoring of nitric oxide in acupoints of rats
Authors: Tang Lina , Li Yutao , Xie Hui , Shu Qing , Yang Fan , Liu Yan-ling , Liang Fengxia , Wang Hua , Huang Weihua , Zhang Guo-Jun
Published: July 2017

This study reports an acupuncture needle modified with an iron-porphyrin functionalized graphene composite (FGPC) for real-time monitoring of nitric oxide (NO) release in acupoints of rats. A gold film was first deposited to the needle surface to enhance the conductivity. The FGPC was prepared via hydrothermal synthesis, and subsequently applied to the tip surface of acupuncture needle by electrochemical deposition method. The functionalized needle enabled a specific and sensitive detection of NO based on the favorably catalytic properties of iron-porphyrin and the excellent conductivity of graphene. Amperometric data showed that the needle achieved not only a low detection limit down to 3.2 nM in PBS solution, but also a satisfactory selectivity. Interestingly, the functionalized needle could be inserted into the acupoints of rats for real-time monitoring of NO in vivo. It was found that a remarkable response to NO was respectively obtained in different acupoints when stimulated by L-arginine (L-Arg), revealing that the release of NO was detectable in acupoints. We expect this work would showcase the applications of acupuncture needle in detecting some important signaling molecules in vivo, and exploring the mechanism of acupuncture treatment.
Strategies to Mitigate Variability in Engineering Human Nasal Cartilage
Authors: Andrews Stephen H. J. , Kunze Melanie , Mulet-Sierra Aillette , Williams Lynn , Ansari Khalid , Osswald Martin , Adesida Adetola B.
Published: July 2017

Skin cancer and its associated treitments can have devastating consequences for survivors; this is particularly true when cancer occurs on the nose. Recent work has applied cell-based tissue engineering (TE) strategies to develop nasal cartilage constructs for reconstruction of the nose. In this study, we have generated human nasal cartilage on a clinically approved collagen scaffold to investigate the donor-to-donor variability of TE cartilage and evaluated strategies to mitigate it. We also evaluated the gene expression of the family of fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR1-4) and their association with tissue quality. FGFR1 was significantly positively correlated with GAG/DNA; a measure of chondrogenic capacity. We implemented two strategies: hypoxic culture and co-culture with mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to increase tissue quality. Total glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content varied significantly between donors initially, with >10–fold difference between the best and worst donor tissue. Our co-culture strategy was able to increase TE construct quality from poor quality donor tissue while supressing hypertrophy relative to MSCs alone. However, no differences were observed with the use of hypoxic culture. Tissues generated using co-culture with MSCs became vascularized and calcified in vivo, demonstrating a non-stable cartilage phenotype in co-culture and MSCs cartilage constructs.
Scaling Relations and Self-Similarity of 3-Dimensional Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes Equations
Authors: Ercan Ali , Kavvas M. Levent
Published: July 2017

Scaling conditions to achieve self-similar solutions of 3-Dimensional (3D) Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes Equations, as an initial and boundary value problem, are obtained by utilizing Lie Group of Point Scaling Transformations. By means of an open-source Navier-Stokes solver and the derived self-similarity conditions, we demonstrated self-similarity within the time variation of flow dynamics for a rigid-lid cavity problem under both up-scaled and down-scaled domains. The strength of the proposed approach lies in its ability to consider the underlying flow dynamics through not only from the governing equations under consideration but also from the initial and boundary conditions, hence allowing to obtain perfect self-similarity in different time and space scales. The proposed methodology can be a valuable tool in obtaining self-similar flow dynamics under preferred level of detail, which can be represented by initial and boundary value problems under specific assumptions.
Forest productivity mitigates human disturbance effects on late-seral prey exposed to apparent competitors and predators
Authors: Fortin Daniel , Barnier Florian , Drapeau Pierre , Duchesne Thierry , Dussault Claude , Heppell Sandra , Prima Marie-Caroline , St-Laurent Martin-Hugues , Szor Guillaume
Published: July 2017

Primary production can determine the outcome of management actions on ecosystem properties, thereby defining sustainable management. Yet human agencies commonly overlook spatio-temporal variations in productivity by recommending fixed resource extraction thresholds. We studied the influence of forest productivity on habitat disturbance levels that boreal caribou – a threatened, late-seral ungulate under top-down control – should be able to withstand. Based on 10 years of boreal caribou monitoring, we found that adult survival and recruitment to populations decreased with landscape disturbance, but increased with forest productivity. This benefit of productivity reflected the net outcome of an increase in resources for apparent competitors and predators of caribou, and a more rapid return to the safety of mature conifer forests. We estimated 3-fold differences in forest harvesting levels that caribou populations could withstand due to variations in forest productivity. The adjustment of ecosystem provisioning services to local forest productivity should provide strong conservation and socio-economic advantages.
Prevalence of Stroke and Vascular Risk Factors in China: a Nationwide Community-based Study
Authors: Li Qi , Wu Hao , Yue Wei , Dai Qingqing , Liang Hui , Bian Hetao , Xia Xiaoshuang , Ji Qiuhong , Shen Ying
Published: July 2017

We aimed to investigate the prevalence of stroke and related vascular risk factors in adult population aged 40 years and older in China. We conducted a prospective cross-sectional survey in nationally representative sample of 207323 individuals from all 31 Chinese provinces in 2013. Data were used to analyze the prevalence of stroke by age, sex, geographical regions and educational level. The age-standardized prevalence of stroke was significantly higher in men than in women in all age groups (P < 0.001). The age-standardized prevalence of stroke was significantly higher in rural than in urban residents among both men and women (P < 0.001). The prevalence of stroke was inversely associated with educational level. There were striking geographical variations in stroke prevalence in China with a higher prevalence of stroke in northern provinces as compared with southern provinces of the country. The age-standardized prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, atrial fibrillation and obesity in the Chinese population aged 40 years and older were 35.24%, 9.55%, 58.72%, 1.57% and 4.09%, respectively. Stroke and related vascular risk factors remains a major public threat in China and effective primary preventive strategies that aimed at reducing the burden of stroke and its risk factors are urgently needed.
Early synaptic dysfunction induced by α-synuclein in a rat model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Phan Jenny-Ann , Stokholm Kathrine , Zareba-Paslawska Justyna , Jakobsen Steen , Vang Kim , Gjedde Albert , Landau Anne M. , Romero-Ramos Marina
Published: July 2017

Evidence suggests that synapses are affected first in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Here, we tested the claim that pathological accumulation of α-synuclein, and subsequent synaptic disruption, occur in absence of dopaminergic neuron loss in PD. We determined early synaptic changes in rats that overexpress human α-synuclein by local injection of viral-vectors in midbrain. We aimed to achieve α-synuclein levels sufficient to induce terminal pathology without significant loss of nigral neurons. We tested synaptic disruption in vivo by analyzing motor defects and binding of a positron emission tomography (PET) radioligand to the vesicular monoamine transporter 2, (VMAT2), [11C]dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ). Animals overexpressing α-synuclein had progressive motor impairment and, 12 weeks post-surgery, showed asymmetric in vivo striatal DTBZ binding. The PET images matched ligand binding in post-mortem tissue, and histological markers of dopaminergic integrity. Histology confirmed the absence of nigral cell death with concomitant significant loss of striatal terminals. Progressive aggregation of proteinase-K resistant and Ser129-phosphorylated α-synuclein was observed in dopaminergic terminals, in dystrophic swellings that resembled axonal spheroids and contained mitochondria and vesicular proteins. In conclusion, pathological α-synuclein in nigro-striatal axonal terminals leads to early axonal pathology, synaptic disruption, dysfunction of dopaminergic neurotransmission, motor impairment, and measurable change of VMAT2 in the absence of cell loss.
Impact of isovalent and aliovalent substitution on the mechanical and thermal properties of Gd2Zr2O7
Authors: Zhang S. , Zhang H. B. , Zhao F. A. , Jiang M. , Xiao H. Y. , Liu Z. J. , Zu X. T.
Published: July 2017

In this study, a density functional theory method is employed to investigate the effects of isovalent and aliovalent substitution of Sm3+ on the phase stability, thermo-physical properties and electronic structure of Gd2Zr2O7. It is shown that the isovalent substitution of Sm3+ for Gd3+ results in the formation of Gd2Zr2O7-Sm2Zr2O7 solid solution, which retains the pyrochlore structure and has slight effects on the elastic moduli, ductility, Debye temperature and band gap of Gd2Zr2O7. As for the aliovalent substitution of Sm3+ for Zr4+ site, a pyrochlore-to-defect fluorite structural transition is induced, and the mechanical, thermal properties and electronic structures are influenced significantly. As compared with the Gd2Zr2O7, the resulted Gd2SmyZr2-yO7 compositions have much smaller elastic moduli, better ductility and smaller Debye temperature. Especially, an amount of electrons distribute on the fermi level and they are expected to have larger thermal conductivity than Gd2Zr2O7. This study suggests an alternative way to engineer the thermo-physical properties of Gd2Zr2O7 and will be beneficial for its applications under stress and high temperature.
High-throughput analysis of the satellitome revealed enormous diversity of satellite DNAs in the neo-Y chromosome of the cricket Eneoptera surinamensis
Authors: Palacios-Gimenez Octavio Manuel , Dias Guilherme Borges , de Lima Leonardo Gomes , Kuhn Gustavo Campos e Silva , Ramos Érica , Martins Cesar , Cabral-de-Mello Diogo Cavalcanti
Published: July 2017

Satellite DNAs (satDNAs) constitute large portion of eukaryote genomes, comprising non-protein-coding sequences tandemly repeated. They are mostly found in heterochromatic regions of chromosomes such as around centromere or near telomeres, in intercalary heterochromatin, and often in non-recombining segments of sex chromosomes. We examined the satellitome in the cricket Eneoptera surinamensis (2n = 9, neo-X1X2Y, males) to characterize the molecular evolution of its neo-sex chromosomes. To achieve this, we analyzed illumina reads using graph-based clustering and complementary analyses. We found an unusually high number of 45 families of satDNAs, ranging from 4 bp to 517 bp, accounting for about 14% of the genome and showing different modular structures and high diversity of arrays. FISH mapping revealed that satDNAs are located mostly in C-positive pericentromeric regions of the chromosomes. SatDNAs enrichment was also observed in the neo-sex chromosomes in comparison to autosomes. Especially astonishing accumulation of satDNAs loci was found in the highly differentiated neo-Y, including 39 satDNAs over-represented in this chromosome, which is the greatest satDNAs diversity yet reported for sex chromosomes. Our results suggest possible involvement of satDNAs in genome increasing and in molecular differentiation of the neo-sex chromosomes in this species, contributing to the understanding of sex chromosome composition and evolution in Orthoptera.
Apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage ameliorates fungus-induced peritoneal injury model in mice
Authors: Tomita Takako , Arai Satoko , Kitada Kento , Mizuno Masashi , Suzuki Yasuhiro , Sakata Fumiko , Nakano Daisuke , Hiramoto Emiri , Takei Yoshifumi , Maruyama Shoichi , Nishiyama Akira , Matsuo Seiichi , Miyazaki Toru , Ito Yasuhiko
Published: July 2017

Fungal peritonitis in a patient on peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a refractory injury accompanied by severe inflammation, predisposing patients to a poor prognosis. Defective clearance of necrotic tissue interferes with amelioration of tissue injury and induces abnormal tissue remodeling. In the recent reports, apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage (AIM, also called CD5L) prevents obesity, hepatocellular carcinoma and acute kidney injury. Here, we investigated potential roles of AIM in prevention of progression of fungal peritonitis models. AIM−/− mice subjected to zymosan-induced peritonitis exhibited progressive inflammation and sustained peritoneal necrosis tissue on day 28 after the disease induction, whereas there was an improvement in AIM+/+ mice. This appeared to be caused by deposition of AIM at the necrotic peritoneum in AIM+/+ mice. In vitro, AIM enhanced the engulfment of necrotic debris by macrophages derived from zymosan-induced peritonitis, M1- and M2a-like bone marrow derived macrophages, as well as by mesothelial cells. In addition, administration of recombinant AIM dramatically ameliorated severe inflammation associated with necrosis in zymosan-induced peritonitis of AIM−/− mice. Our observations suggest that AIM appears to be involved in the repair process of zymosan-induced peritonitis, and thus, could be the basis of development of new therapeutic strategies for PD-related fungal peritonitis.
Temperature and energy effects on secondary electron emission from SiC ceramics induced by Xe17+ ions
Authors: Zeng Lixia , Zhou Xianming , Cheng Rui , Wang Xing , Ren Jieru , Lei Yu , Ma Lidong , Zhao Yongtao , Zhang Xiaoan , Xu Zhongfeng
Published: July 2017

Secondary electron emission yield from the surface of SiC ceramics induced by Xe17+ ions has been measured as a function of target temperature and incident energy. In the temperature range of 463–659 K, the total yield gradually decreases with increasing target temperature. The decrease is about 57% for 3.2 MeV Xe17+ impact, and about 62% for 4.0 MeV Xe17+ impact, which is much larger than the decrease observed previously for ion impact at low charged states. The yield dependence on the temperature is discussed in terms of work function, because both kinetic electron emission and potential electron emission are influenced by work function. In addition, our experimental data show that the total electron yield gradually increases with the kinetic energy of projectile, when the target is at a constant temperature higher than room temperature. This result can be explained by electronic stopping power which plays an important role in kinetic electron emission.
Soil nutritional status and biogeography influence rhizosphere microbial communities associated with the invasive tree Acacia dealbata
Authors: Kamutando Casper N. , Vikram Surendra , Kamgan-Nkuekam Gilbert , Makhalanyane Thulani P. , Greve Michelle , Roux Johannes J. Le , Richardson David M. , Cowan Don , Valverde Angel
Published: July 2017

Invasiveness and the impacts of introduced plants are known to be mediated by plant-microbe interactions. Yet, the microbial communities associated with invasive plants are generally poorly understood. Here we report on the first comprehensive investigation of the bacterial and fungal communities inhabiting the rhizosphere and the surrounding bulk soil of a widespread invasive tree, Acacia dealbata. Amplicon sequencing data indicated that rhizospheric microbial communities differed significantly in structure and composition from those of the bulk soil. Two bacterial (Alphaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria) and two fungal (Pezizomycetes and Agaricomycetes) classes were enriched in the rhizosphere compared with bulk soils. Changes in nutritional status, possibly induced by A. dealbata, primarily shaped rhizosphere soil communities. Despite a high degree of geographic variability in the diversity and composition of microbial communities, invasive A. dealbata populations shared a core of bacterial and fungal taxa, some of which are known to be involved in N and P cycling, while others are regarded as plant pathogens. Shotgun metagenomic analysis also showed that several functional genes related to plant growth promotion were overrepresented in the rhizospheres of A. dealbata. Overall, results suggest that rhizosphere microbes may contribute to the widespread success of this invader in novel environments.
Capture, amplification, and global profiling of microRNAs from low quantities of whole cell lysate
Authors: Wang Nayi , Cheng Jijun , Fan Rong , Lu Jun
Published: July 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that control gene expression at the post-transcriptional levelviaa complex regulatory network that requires genome-wide miRNA profiling to dissect.
Recent developments in sensing methods for eutrophying nutrients with a focus on automation for environmental applications
Authors: Duffy G. , Regan F.
Published: July 2017

A comprehensive review focusing on eutrophying nutrient monitoring using autonomous sensors, including novel analysis methods, standard analysis methods and state-of-the-art sensor technology.
Re-usable PDMS stamps for non-destructive fluorescence evaluation and imaging of thin film photonic structures
Authors: Kist Steffen , Korampally Venumadhav
Published: July 2017

We report on a non-destructive method for evaluating fluorescence emission from fluorophores placed upon engineered photonic structures.
Biomaterials Science Emerging Investigators 2017
Authors: Heilshorn Sarah , Wang Jun
Published: July 2017

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Zinc-coordination and C-peptide complexation: a potential mechanism for the endogenous inhibition of IAPP aggregation
Authors: Ge Xinwei , Kakinen Aleksandr , Gurzov Esteban N. , Yang Wen , Pang Lokman , Pilkington Emily H. , Govindan-Nedumpully Praveen , Chen Pengyu , Separovic Frances , Davis Thomas P. , Ke Pu Chun , Ding Feng
Published: July 2017

Zinc-coordination and C-peptide complexation stabilize IAPP and inhibit its amyloid aggregation.
Unidirectional growth of single crystalline β-Na0.33V2O5and α-V2O5nanowires driven by controlling the pH of aqueous solution and their electrochemical performances for Na-ion batteries
Authors: Lee Yejung , Oh Seung Mi , Park Boyeon , Ye Byeong Uk , Lee Nam-Suk , Baik Jeong Min , Hwang Seong-Ju , Kim Myung Hwa
Published: July 2017

Single crystalline β-Na0.33V2O5and α-V2O5nanowires were prepared with pH controlled precursors.
Elucidating the mechanism of MgB2initial hydrogenation via a combined experimental–theoretical study
Authors: Ray Keith G. , Klebanoff Leonard E. , Lee Jonathan R. I. , Stavila Vitalie , Heo Tae Wook , Shea Patrick , Baker Alexander A. , Kang Shinyoung , Bagge-Hansen Michael , Liu Yi-Sheng , White James L. , Wood Brandon C.
Published: July 2017

The initial hydrogenation of MgB2occursviaa multi-step process, which can result in the direct production of [BH4]−complexes.
Evidence for cooperative Na+ and Cl− binding by strongly hydrated l-proline
Authors: Dmitrieva Olga A. , Fedotova Marina V. , Buchner Richard
Published: July 2017

Strongly hydrated l-proline cooperatively binds Na+ and Cl− ions in aqueous solution.
Zirconium and hafnium complexes bearing pyrrolidine derived salalen-type {ONNO} ligands and their application for ring-opening polymerization of lactides
Authors: Duan Yu-Lai , Hu Zhi-Jian , Yang Bo-Qun , Ding Fei-Fei , Wang Wei , Huang Yong , Yang Ying
Published: July 2017

Zirconium and hafnium complexes [((S)-L)M(OiPr)2] bearing salalen-type {ONNO} ligands have been synthesized and applied as efficient isoselective catalysts for ring-opening polymerization of rac-lactide.
Enhanced biofilm penetration for microbial control by polyvalent phages conjugated with magnetic colloidal nanoparticle clusters (CNCs)
Authors: Li Ling-Li , Yu Pingfeng , Wang Xifan , Yu Sheng-Song , Mathieu Jacques , Yu Han-Qing , Alvarez Pedro J. J.
Published: July 2017

Biofilm treatment using a polyvalent bacteriophage conjugated with colloidal nanoparticle clusters.
An introduction to zwitterionic salts
Authors: Blesic Marijana , Gilmore Brendan F. , Holbrey John D. , Jacquemin Johan , Level Gaelle , Nockemann Peter , Stella Lorenzo
Published: July 2017

Zwitterionic salts: highly hydrophilic materials, incorporating some characteristics of zwitterions, ionic liquids, and inorganic salts with potential applications in the biomedical field and separation technology.
Molecular dynamics study of CO2 absorption and desorption in zinc imidazolate frameworks
Authors: Gao Min , Misquitta Alston J. , Yang Chenxing , Todorov Ilian T. , Mutter Andreas , Dove Martin T.
Published: July 2017

We report a study of the absorption of CO2 into a number of zinc imidazolate framework structures, and subsequent desorption, using the molecular dynamics simulation method with force fields partly developed by ourselves.
Photoluminescence properties of novel BaGd2Si3O10:RE2+/3+ (RE = Eu or Ce) phosphors with trichromatic emission for white LEDs
Authors: Li Gen , Wang Yuhua
Published: July 2017

Novel phosphors BaGd2Si3O10:RE2+/3+ (RE = Eu or Ce) were designed and prepared by a solid state reaction.
A turn-on fluorescence aptasensor based on carbon dots for sensitive detection of adenosine
Authors: Shen Xin , Xu Lei , Zhu Wanying , Li Bingzhi , Hong Junli , Zhou Xuemin
Published: July 2017

A novel turn-on fluorescence aptasensor was designed for adenosine detection based on FRET from ssDNA-CDs to aptamer-AuNPs.
Poly(acrylamide-homocysteine thiolactone) as a synthetic platform for the preparation of polymeric ionic liquids by post ring-opening-orthogonal modifications
Authors: Montolio Silvia , Zagorodko Oleksandr , Porcar Raúl , Isabel Burguete M. , Luis Santiago V. , Tenhu Heikki , García-Verdugo Eduardo
Published: July 2017

Post-modification of Poly(Acrylamide-Homocysteine Thiolactone) provides a variety of advanced polymeric materials with different morphologies and structural diversity.
Understanding single enzyme activity via the nano-impact technique
Authors: Lin Chuhong , Kätelhön Enno , Sepunaru Lior , Compton Richard G.
Published: July 2017

The electrochemical detection and characterisation of individual enzymes via the nano-impact technique is predicted.
Correction: Bright persistent luminescence from pure organic molecules through a moderate intermolecular heavy atom effect
Authors: Xue Pengchong , Wang Panpan , Chen Peng , Yao Boqi , Gong Peng , Sun Jiabao , Zhang Zhenqi , Lu Ran
Published: July 2017

Correction for ‘Bright persistent luminescence from pure organic molecules through a moderate intermolecular heavy atom effect’ by Pengchong Xue et al., Chem. Sci., 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c5sc03739e.
As-CATH1–6, novel cathelicidins with potent antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties from Alligator sinensis, play pivotal roles in host antimicrobial immune responses
Authors: Chen Yan , Cai Shasha , Qiao Xue , Wu Mali , Guo Zhilai , Wang Renping , Kuang Yi-Qun , Yu Haining , Wang Yipeng
Published: July 2017

Crocodilians are regarded as possessing a powerful immune system. However, the composition and action of the crocodilian immune system have remained unclear until now. Cathelicidins, the principal family of host defense peptides, play pivotal roles in vertebrate immune defense against microbial invasions. However, cathelicidins from crocodilians have not been extensively studied to date. In the present study, six novel cathelicidins (As-CATH1–6) were identified and characterized from the endangered Chinese alligator (Alligator sinensis). As-CATH1–6 exhibit no sequence similarity with any of the known cathelicidins. Structure analysis indicated that As-CATH1–3 adopt a random coil secondary conformation, whereas As-CATH4–6 were predicted to mainly adopt an amphipathic α-helix conformation. Among them, As-CATH4–6 exhibited potent, broad-spectrum and rapid antimicrobial activity by inducing the disruption of cell membrane integrity. They also exhibited strong ability to prevent the formation of bacterial biofilms and eradicate preformed biofilms. Furthermore, As-CATH4–6 exhibited potent anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced production of nitric oxide (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines in mouse peritoneal macrophages. They directly neutralized LPS toxicity and therefore inhibited the binding of LPS to the TLR4 receptor and the subsequent activation of inflammatory response pathways. In a peritonitis mice model, As-CATH2–6 provided effective protection against bacterial infection through enhanced immune cell recruitment. In the host Chinese alligator, As-CATH1–6 are mainly expressed in immune organs and epithelial tissues. Bacterial infection significantly enhances their expression, which implies an important role in host anti-infective response. Taken together, the diversity and multiple functions of As-CATH1–6 partially reveal the powerful immune system of the Chinese alligator.
The dual-function chaperone HycH improves assembly of the formate hydrogenlyase complex
Authors: Lindenstrauß Ute , Skorupa Philipp , McDowall Jennifer S. , Sargent Frank , Pinske Constanze
Published: July 2017

The assembly of multi-protein complexes requires the concerted synthesis and maturation of its components and subsequently their co-ordinated interaction. The membrane-bound formate hydrogenlyase (FHL) complex is the primary hydrogen-producing enzyme in Escherichia coli and is composed of seven subunits mostly encoded within the hycA-I operon for [NiFe]-hydrogenase-3 (Hyd-3). The HycH protein is predicted to have an accessory function and is not part of the final structural FHL complex. In this work, a mutant strain devoid of HycH was characterised and found to have significantly reduced FHL activity due to the instability of the electron transfer subunits. HycH was shown to interact specifically with the unprocessed species of HycE, the catalytic hydrogenase subunit of the FHL complex, at different stages during the maturation and assembly of the complex. Variants of HycH were generated with the aim of identifying interacting residues and those that influence activity. The R70/71/K72, the Y79, the E81 and the Y128 variant exchanges interrupt the interaction with HycE without influencing the FHL activity. In contrast, FHL activity, but not the interaction with HycE, was negatively influenced by H37 exchanges with polar residues. Finally, a HycH Y30 variant was unstable. Surprisingly, an overlapping function between HycH with its homologous counterpart HyfJ from the operon encoding [NiFe]-hydrogenase-4 (Hyd-4) was identified and this is the first example of sharing maturation machinery components between Hyd-3 and Hyd-4 complexes. The data presented here show that HycH has a novel dual role as an assembly chaperone for a cytoplasmic [NiFe]-hydrogenase.
Early Postimplant Speech Perception and Language Skills Predict Long-Term Language and Neurocognitive Outcomes Following Pediatric Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Hunter Cynthia R. , Kronenberger William G. , Castellanos Irina , Pisoni David B.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

We sought to determine whether speech perception and language skills measured early after cochlear implantation in children who are deaf, and early postimplant growth in speech perception and language skills, predict long-term speech perception, language, and neurocognitive outcomes.

Method

Thirty-six long-term users of cochlear implants, implanted at an average age of 3.4 years, completed measures of speech perception, language, and executive functioning an average of 14.4 years postimplantation. Speech perception and language skills measured in the 1st and 2nd years postimplantation and open-set word recognition measured in the 3rd and 4th years postimplantation were obtained from a research database in order to assess predictive relations with long-term outcomes.

Results

Speech perception and language skills at 6 and 18 months postimplantation were correlated with long-term outcomes for language, verbal working memory, and parent-reported executive functioning. Open-set word recognition was correlated with early speech perception and language skills and long-term speech perception and language outcomes. Hierarchical regressions showed that early speech perception and language skills at 6 months postimplantation and growth in these skills from 6 to 18 months both accounted for substantial variance in long-term outcomes for language and verbal working memory that was not explained by conventional demographic and hearing factors.

Conclusion

Speech perception and language skills measured very early postimplantation, and early postimplant growth in speech perception and language, may be clinically relevant markers of long-term language and neurocognitive outcomes in users of cochlear implants.

Supplemental materials

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.5216200
Grid connected photovoltaic power plants: new aspects in switching procedures with vacuum circuit breakers involved
Authors: Kuczek Tomasz , Florkowski Marek
Published: July 2017

This study presents vacuum circuit breaker switching investigation on a grid connected photovoltaic power plants. The focal point of this research is to discuss potential overvoltages during various switching operations in terms of the medium‐voltage insulation coordination procedure. Influence of the LC filters of solar converters on high‐frequency transients was highlighted, with main focus on generation of arc re‐strikes and pre‐strikes during opening or closing of the vacuum circuit breaker. Scheduled and emergency switching operations were analysed by means of laboratory experiments and Power Systems Computer Aided Design (PSCAD) simulations. Alternative switching sequences were proposed for mitigation of transient overvoltages.
A simplified structure for three‐phase 4‐level inverter employing fundamental frequency switching technique
Authors: Masaoud Ammar , Mekhilef Saad , Wooi Ping Hew , Ing Wong Kiing
Published: July 2017

This study describes the design and control of simplified structure of three‐phase 4‐level inverter. A 4‐level dc‐link derived from three symmetrical dc voltage supplies and two controlled switches is connected to a three‐phase 3‐level neutral point clamped (3‐level NPC) bridge inverter. By employing the fundamental frequency switching technique, the simplified 4‐level inverter can have two distinct modes of operation: 4‐level and 2‐level. Compared to the well‐known three‐phase 4‐level NPC inverter, the proposed inverter topology comes with series of features including a minimum number of power components, high quality voltage waveform, lower losses and higher efficiency. To ensure the feasibility of the proposed topology with its suggested modulation technique, the prototype of the proposed 4‐level inverter is built and the experimental results are given.
Fuzzy power‐optimised clustering routing algorithm for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Li Jianpo , Hou Xindi , Su Dan , Munyemana Jean De Dieu
Published: July 2017

Transmission power control is an effective method to reduce energy consumption for wireless sensor networks. However, the current algorithms of power control have relatively low accuracy. At the same time, the parameters cannot be adjusted dynamically. In order to improve the energy utilisation as well as data transmission efficiency and balance the load, therefore, a fuzzy power‐optimised clustering routing algorithm is proposed in this study. The algorithm optimises the iteration radius and classifies the sensor nodes into different categories according to their node degree. Then select the cluster head by multi‐parameter iteration adaptively among the same category, and optimise the cluster structure with a comprehensive consideration of parameters such as degree of centralisation, distance between node and base station and so on. Finally, fuzzy control is used to adjust the transmission power of cluster nodes dynamically to minimise the energy consumption. Simulation results show that when the average cluster radius , weight of election parameters , adjustment parameter of cluster radius , compared with other similar algorithms, the proposed algorithm prolongs the lifetime by at least 42.2% and increases the amount of data packets by at least 40.1%.
Isotope exchange reactions involving HCO+ with CO: A theoretical approach
Authors: Mladenović M. , Roueff E.
Published: July 2017

Aims. We aim to investigate fractionation reactions involved in the 12C/13C, 16O/18O, and 17O balance.

Methods. Full-dimensional rovibrational calculations were used to compute numerically exact rovibrational energies and thermal equilibrium conditions to derive the reaction rate coefficients. A nonlinear least-squares method was employed to represent the rate coefficients by analytic functions.

Results. New exothermicities are derived for 30 isotopic exchange reactions of HCO+ with CO. For each of the reactions, we provide the analytic three-parameter Arrhenius-Kooij formula for both the forward reaction and backward reaction rate coefficients, that can further be used in astrochemical kinetic models. Rotational constants derived here for the 17O containing forms of HCO+ may assist detection of these cations in outer space.
N-Heterocyclic Carbene Catalyzed Transformylation
Authors: Fernando Jared , Levens Alison , Moock Daniel , Lupton David
Published: July 2017

The N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalyzed transformylation has been developed for the conversion of 1°, 2°, and 3° alcohols to the corresponding formates. The reaction employs low catalyst loadings and methyl formate as the formyl transfer reagent. The scope of the reaction is broad with 23 examples reported with good yields (59–96%). The reaction is insensitive to common nitrogen and oxygen protecting groups and can be achieved in the presence of a number of heterocycles.
Facile Construction of Pyrrolo[1,2-a]indolenine Scaffold via Dia­stereoselective [3+2] Annulation of Donor–Acceptor Cyclopropane with Indolenine
Authors: Yang Hua , Li Jie , Xiao Jun-An , Zhao Shu-Juan , Xiang Hao-Yue
Published: July 2017

A novel synthetic protocol for the assembly of pyrrolo[1,2-a]indolenine has been developed through a highly diastereoselective [3+2] annulation of 1,1-cyclopropanediesters with indolenines in the presence of catalytic Yb(OTf)3. This new strategy allows a facile construction of the multicyclic system with the flexible variation on the substituents in high yields (up to 86%) with excellent diastereoselectivities (>20:1 dr) in most cases.
Base-Mediated Ring Opening of meso-Epoxides with 4-Aryl-NH-1,2,3-triazoles: Synthesis of trans-2-(Aryltriazolyl)cycloalkanols
Authors: Bhagat Ujjawal , Peddinti Rama ,   Kamaluddin
Published: July 2017

A novel method of nucleophilic ring-opening of meso-epoxides with 4-aryl-NH-1,2,3-triazoles has been developed under metal-free conditions. The epoxide-ring opening process were carried out in the presence of organic bases (DABCO/Et3N) in acetonitrile at 85 °C to afford a regioisomeric mixture of trans-2-(4-aryl-2H-1,2,3-triazol-2-yl)cycloalkanols (2,4-disubstituted triazoles) as major adducts and trans-2-(4-aryl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)cycloalkanols (1,4-disubstituted triazoles) as minor adducts in excellent combined chemical yields (isolated yield up to 99%).
Iptycene-Containing Azaacenes with Tunable Luminescence
Authors: Schleper A. , Voll Constantin-Christian , Engelhart Jens , Swager Timothy
Published: July 2017

An optimized route toward iptycene-capped, p-dibromo-quinoxalinophenazine was developed, increasing the yield significantly from literature procedures. New iptycene-containing symmetrical aza­acenes were synthesized from this intermediate using Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling, and their photophysical properties were evaluated. Tuning the substituents allows modulating emission wavelengths across the visible spectrum. Substitution with 3-methoxy-2-methylthiophene exhibits a quantum yield of 35%. The (triisopropylsilyl)acetylene product has a quantum yield of 38% and serves as a model compound for the synthesis of polymers based on this electrooptically active molecular motif.
Nucleophilicities and Lewis Basicities of Sterically Hindered Pyridines
Authors: Follet Elsa , Zipse Hendrik , Lakhdar Sami , Ofial Armin , Berionni Guillaume
Published: July 2017

The structures of the covalent Lewis adducts and/or frustrated Lewis pairs derived from 2- and 2,6-substituted pyridines with diaryl (Ar2CH+) and with the more bulky triaryl (Ar3C+) carbenium ions were analyzed by UV-vis and NMR spectroscopy. Thermodynamics (equilibrium constants) and kinetics (rate constants) of the associations of the carbon-centered Lewis acids Ar2CH+ with a series of sterically hindered pyridines were investigated and used for the determination of the Lewis basicities and nucleophilicities, on the basis of the Mayr electrophilicity/nucleophilicity and Lewis acidity/basicity linear free energy relationships. In addition, methyl and benzhydryl cation affinities were computed to elucidate the respective steric and electronic contributions of the substituents to the nitrogen atom Lewis basicity. The influence of the size of the reference carbenium ion on the magnitude of the repulsion induced by the pyridine substituents (Me, tBu in 2- or 2,6-positions) was also analyzed. Cumulated steric repulsion was found to decrease the reactivity of the nitrogen atom by up to 10 orders of magnitude.
Palladium-Catalyzed Carbonylative Cross-Coupling Reaction
between Aryl(Heteroaryl) Iodides and Tricyclopropylbismuth:
Expedient Access to Aryl Cyclopropylketones
Authors: Benoit Emeline , Dansereau Julien , Gagnon Alexandre
Published: July 2017

The carbonylative cross-coupling reaction between aryl and heteroaryl iodides and tricyclopropylbismuth is reported. The reaction is catalyzed by (SIPr)Pd(allyl)Cl, a NHC-palladium(II) catalyst, operates under 1 atm of carbon monoxide and tolerates a wide range of functional groups. The use of lithium chloride was found to provide higher yields of the desired aryl cyclopropylketones. The conditions were also applied to the carbonylative cross-coupling of an iodoalkene to afford the corresponding alkenyl cyclopropylketone.
Occupational Hearing Loss from Non-Gaussian Noise
Authors: Suter Alice
Published: July 2017

Noise levels are truly continuous in relatively few occupations, with some degree of intermittency the most common condition. The sound levels of intermittent noise are often referred to as non-Gaussian in that they are not normally distributed in the time domain. In some conditions, intermittent noise affects the ear differently from continuous noise, and it is this assumption that underlies the selection of the 5-dB exchange rate (ER). The scientific and professional communities have debated this assumption over recent decades. This monograph explores the effect of non-Gaussian noise on the auditory system. It begins by summarizing an earlier report by the same author concentrating on the subject of the ER. The conclusions of the earlier report supported the more conservative 3-dB ER with possible adjustments to the permissible exposure limit for certain working conditions. The current document has expanded on the earlier report in light of the relevant research accomplished in the intervening decades. Although some of the animal research has supported the mitigating effect of intermittency, a closer look at many of these studies reveals certain weaknesses, along with the fact that these noise exposures were not usually representative of the conditions under which people actually work. The more recent animal research on complex noise shows that intermittencies do not protect the cochlea and that many of the previous assumptions about the ameliorative effect of intermittencies are no longer valid, lending further support to the 3-dB ER. The neurologic effects of noise on hearing have gained increasing attention in recent years because of improvements in microscopy and immunostaining techniques. Animal experiments showing damage to auditory synapses from noise exposures previously considered harmless may signify the need for a more conservative approach to the assessment of noise-induced hearing loss and consequently the practice of hearing conservation programs.
A Novel Mutation in the CLDN16 Gene in a Palestinian Family with Familial Hypomagnesemia with Hypercalciuria and Nephrocalcinosis
Authors: Abu-Libdeh Abdulsalam , Abu-Libdeh Bassam , Abdulhag Ulla
Published: July 2017

Familial hypomagnesemia with hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis (FHHNC) is a rare autosomal recessive renal disorder characterized by excessive renal magnesium and calcium loss, bilateral nephrocalcinosis, and progressive renal failure, due to impaired tubular reabsorption in the thick ascending loop of Henle. FHHNC is caused by loss of function mutations in the claudin-16 gene (CLDN16) and claudin-19 gene (CLDN19). A 2-month-old male infant presented with convulsions during hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, and hypophosphatemia, biochemical findings were consistent with FHHNC. There is a positive family history of the death of a 12 years old sibling due to renal failure. Gene sequencing of the CLDN16 revealed a novel missense mutation with the replacement of T by C in codon 120 located in exon 2, predicting cysteine to arginine substitution p.Cys120Arg. This is the first description of this missense mutation and the first confirmation of FHHNC by molecular testing in a Palestinian family which enables genetic counseling and future prenatal diagnosis.
The Natural History of Brain Arteriovenous Malformations
Authors: Peres Carlos , Yamaki Vitor , Figueiredo Eberval
Published: July 2017

Brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are relatively rare lesions with irreversible consequences in the context of hemorrhage. They are characterized by direct connections between arteries and veins without an intervening capillary network. The natural history of brain AVMs is controversial in the literature, with low evidence level gathered in the papers published, and with large divergence of results among them. A detailed understanding of the natural history is critical for treatment decision. The risk of development of deleterious outcomes such as hemorrhage or brain infarction should always be considered when submitting a patient to the risks of treatment. Several factors related to the patient and to the AVMs are determinants in the natural history of this disease. The topography, size, morphology and angioarchitecture of AVMs determine the risk of rupture. Large AVMs, those located in the posterior fossa and with deep venous drainage, have higher risk of rupture. Due to divergence in the literature regarding the natural history of AVMs, the choice of treatment should also consider experiences acquired over the years from reference centers with a high number of AVMs treated per year. We determined 7 variables that should be considered during the decision to treat an AVM: 1) previous hemorrhage; 2) aneurysm associated to the AVM; 3) direct arteriovenous fistula; 4) factors related to the nidus; 5) age and habits (smoking, sedentary lifestyle, diet quality); 6) the functional performance of the patient; 7) psychological factors.
Circulating Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 and Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein-3 predict Three-months Outcome after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Armbrust Moritz , Worthmann Hans , Dengler Reinhard , Schumacher Helmut , Lichtinghagen Ralf , Eschenfelder Christoph , Endres Matthias , Ebinger Martin
Published: July 2017

Reports on neuroprotective effects of Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) in ischemic brain tissue are inconsistent. The aim of this study was to determine if plasma levels of IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 in acute stroke patients are indicative of 3 months functional outcome.

Plasma levels were measured via chemiluminescence immunoassay in heparin blood samples of patients included in the EARLY trial (NCT00562588). Plasma samples were drawn on admission and 8 days post-stroke. Neurological deficits were assessed via modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 3 months post-stroke, resulting in favorable (mRS=0–2) or unfavorable (mRS=3–6) outcome. A multiple binary logistic regression including IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels and confounders was conducted.

Out of 404 included patients, 89 patients had an unfavorable outcome. Mean mRS on admission as well as 3 months post-stroke was 2 (±1). Low IGF-1 levels (day 8) were independently associated with a decreased risk of an unfavorable outcome (OR 0.61; 95%CI 0.37–0.99; p=0.044). Low IGFBP-3 levels (day 8) were independently associated with an unfavorable outcome (OR 2.75; 95%CI 1.56–4.84; p<0.001).

Low IGFBP-3 levels and high IGF-1 levels in the subacute phase are predictive of unfavorable outcome 3 months after stroke.
Wie aktiv ist die katholische Kirche bei der Prävention des sexuellen Missbrauchs? Erste Ergebnisse der MHG-Studie
Authors: Dreßing Harald , Dölling Dieter , Hermann Dieter , Horten Barbara , Collong Alexandra , Kruse Andreas , Schmitt Eric , Hinner Jörg , Bannenberg Britta , Hoell Andreas , Voss Elke , Salize Hans
Published: July 2017

Anliegen Ein Teilprojekt der von der Deutschen Bischofskonferenz ausgeschriebenen Studie „Sexueller Missbrauch an Minderjährigen durch katholische Priester, Diakone und männliche Ordensangehörige im Bereich der Deutschen Bischofskonferenz“ befasst sich mit Präventionsaspekten.

Methode Mit strukturierten Fragen wurden objektive Gegebenheiten zur Präventionsarbeit erfasst. Der Fragebogen wurde in allen 27 Diözesen Deutschlands bearbeitet.

Ergebnisse Das durchschnittlich für die Arbeit der Präventionsbeauftragten in allen Diözesen Deutschlands zur Verfügung stehende Stundenkontingent liegt bei einer 2/3-Stelle. Ende 2014 waren 59 % der Kleriker in Präventionsschulungen einbezogen. Der zeitliche Umfang der Präventionsschulungen variiert zwischen den einzelnen Diözesen stark.

Diskussion Die katholische Kirche Deutschlands hat umfangreiche Bestrebungen unternommen, eine flächendeckende Präventionsarbeit zur Vermeidung des sexuellen Missbrauchs an Minderjährigen in allen Bereichen zu implementieren. Der Stellenwert der Präventionsarbeit variiert zwischen den einzelnen Diözesen aber offensichtlich erheblich.
Zurück zum Pre Injury Level – der RTA Algorithmus für die
obere Extremität
Authors: Keller Matthias , Kurz Eduard
Published: July 2017

Nach Verletzungen oder Operationen der unteren Extremität haben sich
funktionsbasierte Rehabilitationskonzepte inzwischen etabliert. Aber auch
Patienten nach Schulter- oder Armverletzungen benötigen eine zielgerichtete und
objektive Steuerung der Nachbehandlung. Matthias Keller und Eduard Kurz stellen
ein funktionsbasiertes Konzept vor, um diese Patienten therapeutisch zu
begleiten. Level für Level finden sie so den Weg zurück zum Sport oder in die
Arbeitsbelastung – mithilfe des Return to Activity Algorithmus für die obere
Extremität.