bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishing an Anatomic Pathology Laboratory at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
Authors: Liaqat Muneezeh , Turner Andrew , Anderson Peter , Palmer Bryson , Taher Sherif Al , Koshy Zachariah , de Jesus Winifredo , Kolar Vijai , Burton Tony , Nahal Ayoub , AbdelWareth Laila O. , AbdulKarim Fadi , Mirza Imran
Published: August 2018

Context.—

The Department of Anatomic Pathology is a division of the Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. The hospital offers the same model of care as its US-based counterpart the Cleveland Clinic, established in 1921 in Cleveland, Ohio. Pathology services at Cleveland Clinic are internationally acclaimed: the endeavor for Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi was to create a parallel facility, with the same standards in a greenfield start-up environment.

Objective.—

To narrate how we addressed challenges customary in any laboratory start-up and issues distinctive to our setting with the aim to provide a model for others involved in a similar undertaking.

Data Sources.—

All information in this article is based on published literature obtained by search on internet-based search engines, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, and the authors' firsthand experience.

Conclusions.—

Key considerations in establishing an anatomic pathology laboratory are careful planning and design, adherence to local and international regulatory standards, selection of equipment and supplies, appropriate staffing, development of a laboratory information system, and sound test validation. In addition to meeting our clinical needs, alliance with the US Cleveland Clinic had an integral role in establishing our laboratory and regional reputation.
O tratamento que a inclusão educacional do público da educação especial recebe nos Planos Institucionais de Desenvolvimento e Expansão (PIDEs) da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU)
Authors: Freitas Márcia Guimarães de , Silva Lázara Cristina da
Published: August 2018

Este trabalho apresenta parte dos resultados obtidos em pesquisa desenvolvida no curso de mestrado em educação. Tivemos como objetivo analisar de que forma a inclusão é proposta e implementada pela Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU). Buscamos identificar qual o conceito de inclusão fomentado nos Planos Institucionais de Desenvolvimento e Expansão (PIDEs) e se as metas e ações previstas nesses documentos contribuem para minimizar as barreiras físicas e atitudinais enfrentadas pelos estudantes com deficiência nesse espaço institucional. Para realização deste trabalho, optou-se pela pesquisa documental utilizando como fonte de dados, os documentos oficiais nacionais e da instituição. Os nacionais foram as legislações reguladoras e orientadoras para a educação em geral e para a superior, portanto foram tomados as leis, decretos, pareceres, instruções normativas, notas técnicas, etc. produzidas de 1996 a 2015; e como documentos institucionais, foram utilizadas  as duas versões do PIDE, no período de 2008-2012 e no período de 2010-2015, atas do Conselho Universitário (CONSUN), Estatuto UFU, Regimento Interno e outros documentos. Constatamos que a inclusão, sob os efeitos do processo histórico, torna-se, na atualidade, um imperativo do Estado e chega às universidades, dado que, segundo a visão neoliberal, a educação passa a ser condição para que as pessoas possam operar com a lógica da inclusão em todas as suas ações. Constatamos também que, na UFU, esse imperativo inclusivo se verifica nos documentos (PIDEs) de duas maneiras: através da inclusão social e da acessibilidade como política de inserção e permanência dos estudantes.
Fundamentos de neurociência presentes na inclusão escolar: vivências docentes
Authors: Silva Luciane Grecilo da , Mello Elena Maria Billig
Published: August 2018

Esta pesquisa-ação objetivou investigar estratégias de ensino-aprendizagem, com suporte na Neurociência, com vista à acessibilidade pedagógica de alunos incluídos, à inovação pedagógica e ao respeito à diversidade, em turma regular, no Ensino Fundamental, de uma escola pública estadual. Relatos da prática docente no diário de itinerância digital, fotografias e vídeos, foram analisados e registrados em momentos de pré, durante e pós-intervenções com estratégicas pedagógicas. Após diagnóstico inicial e verificação de problemáticas no processo ensino-aprendizagem, cinco estratégias pedagógicas com base na Neurociência foram planejadas, aplicadas e analisadas, desdobrando-se em cinco categorias norteadoras: estética, emoções, inclusão, autonomia e Neuroeducação. A proposta de intervenção embasou-se na metodologia dialética. Os resultados evidenciaram a necessidade da mobilização e sensibilização do grupo como um todo, assim como de resgate da autonomia, autoestima e participação dos alunos incluídos. Proporcionou-se contexto flexibilizado, com respeito aos ritmos, às capacidades e às condições neurofisiológicas, observando relações entre o científico e o educacional. Com a percepção de que existem cérebros diferentes faz-se necessário olhar e valorizar propostas pedagógicas que estejam atentas à acessibilidade pedagógica para dessa forma tornarmos a inclusão uma realidade.
Quando a inclusão não se efetiva: a evasão de alunos surdos ou com deficiência auditiva no ensino superior
Authors: Ziliotto Denise Macedo , Souza Denise Jordão , Andrade Fadua Ionara
Published: August 2018

O final do século XX evidenciou incremento importante das instituições de ensino superior no Brasil e, por conseguinte, do número de cursos e vagas disponíveis. Esta política engendrou um crescimento importante nas matrículas e a inserção de grupos sociais que não conseguiam vislumbrar sua presença na universidade. Neste contexto evidenciou-se o ingresso de alunos com deficiência, decorrência também das políticas de inclusão na educação básica e das ações afirmativas de acessibilidade ao ensino superior. Contudo, a evasão que se evidencia de forma crescente nas instituições brasileiras, ocorre também neste grupo de alunos, cuja permanência é relevante em função das condições sociais e profissionais que a educação poderia possibilitar. Diante deste contexto, a investigação analisou a evasão de alunos surdos em instituição de ensino superior (IES) privada, a partir de pesquisa documental, onde dados acadêmicosdo período de 2000 a 2013 foramanalisados por meio de estatística descritiva. Os resultados indicam que 61 % dos alunos são oriundos de escolas de educação especial, e a modalidade de ingresso com maior prevalência é o vestibular (87,88%), sendo os cursos de licenciatura a escolha de 51,52% de alunos que estiveram matriculados no período pesquisado. Os dados referentes às movimentações acadêmicas indicam que 66,67% dos alunos surdos vivenciaram mudanças em relação à organização inicial do semestre em que estavam matriculados. A evasão dos alunos surdos ocorreu exclusivamente nos dois primeiros semestres do curso, o que pode indicar que as dificuldades de permanência estejam presentes desde o início do percurso acadêmico.
Intervenção precoce: práticas e representações
Authors: Martins Rosa , Freitas Patrícia , Carvalho Olívia De , Pascoinho João
Published: August 2018

Com o objetivo de se conhecer as práticas dos profissionais de Intervenção Precoce (I.P.) e analisar em que medida essas práticas coincidem com as representações das famílias, realizou-se o presente estudo que contou com a participação de uma profissional de I.P. e a mãe de uma criança que beneficia dos serviços prestados por essa mesma profissional. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo de cariz compreensivo e interpretativo. Foi utilizado como instrumento de colheita de dados a entrevista semiestruturada. Os principais resultados mostram que as práticas dos profissionais de intervenção precoce não se distanciam das representações das famílias sobre essas mesmas práticas, podendo dizer-se, a partir do discurso das práticas e representações, que estamos perante uma profissional de I.P. experiente, com formação adequada, que adota na sua prática o saber-saber, saber-fazer e saber-ser, que centra a sua ação na família. Os resultados são congruentes com uma prática profissional próxima do estipulado pelos normativos portugueses para a Intervenção Precoce. A comunicação entre o profissional e a família é preferencialmente informal e nos discursos do sujeitos não é notória a existência de momentos específicos para tarefas de monitorização e avaliação conjunta do Plano Individual de Intervenção Precoce.
A criança com autismo na brinquedoteca: percursos de interação e linguagem
Authors: Oliveira Ivone Martins , Victor Sonia Lopes
Published: August 2018

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar os resultados de análises de um estudo de caso sobre modos de interação estabelecidos entre uma criança com autismo e os adultos em uma brinquedoteca. Apoia-se nos estudos de Lev Semenovitch Vigotski e Mikhail Bakhtin, que abordam o papel da linguagem na constituição da consciência e enfocam os processos de significação que subjazem aos processos interativos. Os dados foram registrados por meio de filmagem, gravação em áudio e anotações em diário de campo em uma brinquedoteca universitária, que atendia crianças com e sem deficiência, contando para isso com a participação de graduandos do curso de Educação Física, docentes da universidade e uma psicóloga. As análises foram desenvolvidas de forma a compreender os processos interativos estabelecidos entre um menino com autismo de dois anos e oito meses, que não apresenta uma linguagem articulada, e dois adultos. As análises indicaram que a criança interage com adultos, utilizando recursos não verbais, os quais são significados por eles, o que permite manter a interação e enriquecer as possibilidades de interlocução. O estudo conclui que, mesmo não tendo uma fala articulada, essa criança se constitui como um sujeito em condições de se posicionar de forma ativa e responsiva nos processos interativos estabelecidos com os adultos. Nesse processo, o papel do adulto é fundamental de forma a criar condições favoráveis à participação da criança no jogo dialógico.
O uso da tecnologia assistiva pelo estudante com paralisia cerebral no contexto escolar
Authors: Santos Camila Boarini dos , Marques Maria Lúcia Chicarelli , Andrade Mirela Moreno Almeida de , Rocha Aila Narene Dahwache Criado
Published: August 2018

O estudante com Paralisia Cerebral (PC) pode possuir limitações em suas atividades de vida diária, devido a patologia e a barreiras ambientais, que dificultam o seu desempenho em diferentes contextos. Este estudo teve como objetivo identificar quais recursos de Tecnologia Assistiva (TA) estão sendo utilizados por estudantes com PC na escola e analisar se as suas utilizações estão relacionadas com a função motora e comunicativa destes estudantes. Participaram deste estudo 20 estudantes com PC e 19 professores responsáveis por estes estudantes. Para a coleta de dados foram utilizados os dados referentes a TA coletados por meio do “Protocolo de Triagem para o trabalho colaborativo entre saúde e educação”, bem como os dados identificados nos instrumentos Gross Motor Function Measure Classification System (GMFCS), Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) e Sistema de Classificação da Função de Comunicação (CFCS). Em relação a análise dos resultados, foi realizada a organização de um banco de dados usando o Microsoft Excel e, posteriormente foi utilizado o software IBM SPSS Statistics, versão 22 para efetuar a análise estatística do estudo. Os resultados deste estudo permitiram concluir que os principais recursos de TA identificados no contexto escolar são os recursos de mobilidade e mobiliários adaptados. Sugere-se que seja realizado novos estudos com esta população a fim de ampliar o número de participantes e investigar outros aspectos que possam interferir no uso da TA no contexto escolar da criança com PC.
Along urbanization sprawl, exotic plants distort native bee (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) assemblages in high elevation Andes ecosystem
Authors: Henríquez-Piskulich Patricia , Vera Alejandro , Sandoval Gino , Villagra Cristian
Published: August 2018

Native bees contribute with a considerable portion of pollination services for endemic as well as economically important plant species. Their decline has been attributed to several human-derived influences including global warming as well as the reduction, alteration and loss of bees’ habitat. Moreover, together with human expansion comes along the introduction of exotic plant species with negative impacts over native ecosystems. Anthropic effects may have even a deeper impact on communities adapted to extreme environments, such as high elevation habitats, where abiotic stressors alone are a natural limitation to biodiversity. In these, human-borne alterations, such as the introduction of exotic plants and urbanization, may have a greater influence on native communities. In this work we explored such problem, studying the relationship between landscape and its effect over richness and abundance of native bees from the subandean belt in the Andes mountain chain. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of exotic plant abundance on this high-altitude bee assemblage. Despite landscape did not show an effect over bee richness and abundance, exotic plants did have a significant influence over native bee assemblage. The abundance of exotic plants was associated with a relative increase in the proportion of small and medium bee species. Moreover, Halictidae was the only family that appeared to be favored by an increase in the abundance of exotic plant species. We discuss these results and the urgent need for further research of high-altitude environments due to their vulnerability and high endemicity.
Two consecutive microtubule-based epithelial seaming events mediate dorsal closure in the scuttle fly Megaselia abdita
Authors: Fraire-Zamora Juan Jose , Jaeger Johannes , Solon Jérôme
Published: August 2018

Evolution of morphogenesis is generally associated with changes in genetic regulation. Here, we report evidence indicating that dorsal closure, a conserved morphogenetic process in dipterans, evolved as the consequence of rearrangements in epithelial organization rather than signaling regulation. In Drosophila melanogaster, dorsal closure consists of a two-tissue system where the contraction of extraembryonic amnioserosa and a JNK/Dpp-dependent epidermal actomyosin cable result in microtubule-dependent seaming of the epidermis. We find that dorsal closure in Megaselia abdita, a three-tissue system comprising serosa, amnion and epidermis, differs in morphogenetic rearrangements despite conservation of JNK/Dpp signaling. In addition to an actomyosin cable, M. abdita dorsal closure is driven by the rupture and contraction of the serosa and the consecutive microtubule-dependent seaming of amnion and epidermis. Our study indicates that the evolutionary transition to a reduced system of dorsal closure involves simplification of the seaming process without changing the signaling pathways of closure progression.
Cider vinegar rules
Authors: Calabrese Ronald L
Published: August 2018

Experiments in wind tunnels have shed light on the rules that govern how flies respond when they detect odors.
Body size information in large-scale acoustic bat databases
Authors: Penone Caterina , Kerbiriou Christian , Julien Jean-François , Marmet Julie , Le Viol Isabelle
Published: August 2018

Background

Citizen monitoring programs using acoustic data have been useful for detecting population and community patterns. However, they have rarely been used to study broad scale patterns of species traits. We assessed the potential of acoustic data to detect broad scale patterns in body size. We compared geographical patterns in body size with acoustic signals in the bat speciesPipistrellus pipistrellus. Given the correlation between body size and acoustic characteristics, we expected to see similar results when analyzing the relationships of body size and acoustic signals with climatic variables.

Methods

We assessed body size using forearm length measurements of 1,359 bats, captured by mist nets in France. For acoustic analyses, we used an extensive dataset collected through the French citizen bat survey. We isolated each bat echolocation call (n = 4,783) and performed automatic measures of signals, including the frequency of the flattest part of the calls (characteristic frequency). We then examined the relationship between forearm length, characteristic frequencies, and two components resulting from principal component analysis for geographic (latitude, longitude) and climatic variables.

Results

Forearm length was positively correlated with higher precipitation, lower seasonality, and lower temperatures. Lower characteristic frequencies (i.e., larger body size) were mostly related to lower temperatures and northern latitudes. While conducted on different datasets, the two analyses provided congruent results.

Discussion

Acoustic data from citizen science programs can thus be useful for the detection of large-scale patterns in body size. This first analysis offers a new perspective for the use of large acoustic databases to explore biological patterns and to address both theoretical and applied questions.
Molecular evolution of umami/sweet taste receptor genes in reptiles
Authors: Feng Ping , Liang Shichu
Published: August 2018

Sensory systems play an important role in animal survival. Changes to these systems may be critical in evolution of species in new environments. Previous studies exploring the correlation between feeding ecology and Tas1r evolution mainly focused on mammals and birds, and found that the relationship was complex. However, in reptiles, the correlation between Tas1r evolution and dietary preferences is still unclear. Here, we attempted to explore this relationship in representative species of the major groups of reptiles (turtles, snakes, lizards, crocodilians), for which the genome information is known. We first predicted the functionality (intact, partial, or defective) of Tas1r, and then related it to the feeding preferences. As a result, we identified 11 Tas1r1, 12 Tas1r2, and 12 Tas1r3 genes to be partial or intact and another 22 Tas1r genes to be absent or pseudogenized in the 19 reptiles. We found that, as it was revealed in some other vertebrate groups, no correlation existed between feeding ecology and Tas1r evolution in reptiles: genomic prediction indicated that the Tas1r genes possibly have been lost or pseudogenized in snakes, but in crocodylia and testudines Tas1r genes are either intact or partial, regardless of their feeding habits. Thus, we suggest that the driving force of Tas1r evolution in reptiles is complex, and the feeding habit of swallowing food whole without chewing or the absence of taste buds in certain species may account for the possible umami/sweet perception loss. In addition, we propose that caution should be taken when predicting gene functionality from the publicly available genome database.
ЭФФЕКТЫ КОСМИЧЕСКОЙ РАДИАЦИИ, КОМБИНИРОВАННОГО ВОЗДЕЙСТВИЯ РАДИАЦИИ И ДРУГИХ ФАКТОРОВ КОСМИЧЕСКОГО ПОЛЕТА НА ФУНКЦИИ ЦНС В МОДЕЛЬНЫХ ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТАХ НА ЖИВОТНЫХ, "Успехи современной биологии"
Authors: Ушаков И.Б. , Штемберг А.С. , Красавин Е.А. , Базян А. С. , Кудрин В.С. , Лебедева-Георгиевская К.Б. , Матвеева М.И.
Published: August 2018

Вопросы эффектов воздействия космической радиации на ЦНС являются наиболее актуальными для оценки радиационного риска в межпланетных полетах и могут решаться только в модельных наземных экспериментах на животных. В статье обосновывается методология и приводятся результаты таких экспериментов: моделирование эффектов длительного воздействия радиации с помощью фракционированного гамма-облучения животных и его сочетания с эффектами гипогравита-ции (антиортостатическое вывешивание крыс) и моделирование специфики эффектов облучения протонами и ионами углерода С в экспериментах на ускорителях. Показано, что при воздействии ионов С происходят существенные изменения в обмене моноаминов в мозге, причем наиболее чувствительными структурами являются префронтальная кора, nucleus accumbens и гиппокамп. В то же время эффекты воздействия высокоэнергетических протонов в аналогичных дозах практически аналогичны эффектам гамма-излучения и могут быть оценены как незначительные.
АКТУАЛЬНЫЕ ТЕОРЕТИЧЕСКИЕ ВОПРОСЫ ЭКОЛОГО-ЭПИДЕМИОЛОГИЧЕСКОЙ КОНЦЕПЦИИ САПРОНОЗОВ И ВОЗМОЖНЫЕ ПУТИ ИХ РЕШЕНИЯ, "Успехи современной биологии"
Authors: Белов А.Б. , Панин А.Л.
Published: August 2018

Анализируется соответствие содержания эпидемиологической терминологии, классификаций возбудителей и вызываемых ими болезней человека новым научным данным по проблеме сапронозов. Показано, что экологическому подходу к систематике биоты оптимально соответствует дифференциация сапронозов по биотическим резервуарам бактерий, общих для человека, животных, растений и прокариот. Уточнены понятия и категории, характеризующие причины и условия симбиотических связей факультативных паразитов человека и животных с их хозяевами. Рассмотрено регулирующее влияние условий внешней среды на выживание симбионтов, механизмы передачи возбудителей сапронозов в природных и антропургических резервуарах, пути заражения человека, животных и растений. Показано, что условия среды через состояние хозяев и возбудителей, а также колебания ресурса питания симбионтов управляют сменой типов трофики бактерий - от автотрофизма и сапро-фитизма до патогенного паразитизма (и наоборот), и обеспечивают фазовое развитие эпизоотического (эпифитотического) процесса. При этом заболеваемость людей (животных, растений) сапро-нозными инфекциями зависит от численности и состояния популяций хозяев и бактерий, а также от динамики параметров среды их обитания и сезонных факторов. Предлагается дифференцировать класс сапронозов на сапрозоонозы и сапрозооантропонозы с перспективой разделения в будущем на фитонозы, фитозоонозы и фитозооантропонозы. Разграничение биотических резервуаров возбудителей и условий их циркуляции в симбиотических системах хозяев и бактерий позволит унифицировать терминологию и классификацию болезней человека на основе экологического подхода.
3‐D Scanning Acoustic Microscope for Investigation of Curved‐Structured Smart Material Compounds
Authors: Wüst Michael , Rupitsch Stefan J.
Published: August 2018

In this contribution, a system for acoustic microscopy to investigate complex‐shaped composite‐based components with integrated piezoceramic sensors or actuators is presented by the authors. Since piezoelectric materials are oftentimes lead‐containing, X‐ray based imaging is not always suitable to evaluate the inner structures of the piezoceramics. Thus, an adapted acoustic microscope for investigations of curved structures is introduced by the authors. High‐frequency ultrasonic imaging is a capable method to visualize cracks as well as delaminations because of refraction effects at the edges of a crack and changing reflection properties, respectively. Imaging results of curved structured specimens, which have been produced within the framework of the three different process chains of the CRC/TR 39: Metal forming, fiber composite, and aluminum die casting are presented by the authors.
Mg3B7O13Cl: A New Quasi‐Phase Matching Crystal in the Deep‐Ultraviolet Region
Authors: Wang Zujian , Qiao Huimin , Su Rongbing , Hu Bing , Yang Xiaoming , He Chao , Long Xifa
Published: August 2018

Deep‐ultraviolet lasers play an important role in many scientific and technical fields, the generation of which by means of the nonlinear optical frequency conversion technology attracted immense research interest over the past few decades. Up to now, there are few nonlinear optical crystals, except KBe2BO3F2, which could produce deep‐ultraviolet coherent light by a harmonic generation process. However, industrialization of KBe2BO3F2 is hampered by its layering growth habit and weak interlayer force. Here, a new deep‐ultraviolet nonlinear optical crystal, Mg3B7O13Cl, is found, which will be a good candidate for deep‐ultraviolet coherent generation. It crystallizes an acentric space group of Pca21 at room temperature with both 3D borate frameworks and distorted octahedrons, which makes it a unity of optical nonlinearity and ferroelectricity. Furthermore, a short absorption cutoff of 155 nm, a second harmonic generation coefficient of 0.38 pm V−1, a coercive field of 21.2 kV cm−1, and a remanent polarization of 0.36 µC cm−2 for Mg3B7O13Cl crystal are identified. These features indicate that Mg3B7O13Cl crystal can generate deep‐ultraviolet coherent light by a quasi‐phase matching technique with a periodically poling method. This pioneering and profound work points out a new research area in the development of deep‐ultraviolet lasers.
A Self‐Powered Smart Roller‐Bearing Based on a Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Measurement of Rotation Movement
Authors: Choi Daehwan , Sung Taehoon , Kwon Jang‐Yeon
Published: August 2018

Triboelectric nanogenerator technology is one of the most promising technologies with great potential for applications in self‐powered electronics and sensing systems. Herein a simply fabricated, cost‐effective, triboelectric sensor with a roller‐bearing structure which is composed of rollers and electrode is presented. Based on the triboelectric effect, this smart bearing generates the output electrical signals in response to rotation movement or displacement of an object mounted with the bearing. The triboelectric sensor delivers an open‐circuit voltage of ≈45 V and a short‐circuit current of ≈6 µA at a rotation rate of 400 r min−1. Using the output signals of the smart bearing, the angular velocity and position as well as damage in the components can be continuously monitored. Furthermore, the smart bearing mounted to the steering wheel can be utilized as an energy harvester, a rotation direction detector, and a driving style sensing system at the same time. This work greatly expands the applicability of triboelectric nanogenerators as self‐powered sensing systems.
Highly Sensitive Colorimetric Detection of Early Stage Aluminum Corrosion in Water Using Plasmonic Gold Nanoparticle Films
Authors: Tesler Alexander B. , Sannomiya Takumi , Vaskevich Alexander , Sabatani Eyal , Rubinstein Israel
Published: August 2018

Corrosion remains the major reason for the failure of metallic parts. Therefore, spotting and evaluating the severity of corrosion at its early stages is of great importance. Herein, a novel optical corrosion probe based on plasmonic gold nanoparticles immobilized on aluminum surface is demonstrated. The measurements confirm that the corrosion rate and mechanism of bare aluminum is identical to that of the developed probe. During Al corrosion, the gold nanoparticles are located entirely at the interface between the inner dense and outer porous layers of the formed aluminum oxide. The growth of the inner oxide layer during corrosion prompts a change in the reflection spectra and the appearance of strong coloration that is easily observed by the naked eye. Numerical modeling reveals that these optical changes occur mainly due to light interference within the inner oxide layer, which is located between the plasmonic gold nanoparticles and the underlying reflective aluminum. The ability of the plasmonic probe is further demonstrated to monitor the aqueous corrosion of thin films, bulk and alloyed Al, as well as Al protected by a self‐assembled monolayer of hydrophobic surfactant, and, hence, the wide applicability of the method.
Iron(II) Chloride‐Catalyzed Nitrene Transfer Reaction for Dearomative Amination of β‐Naphthols with Aryl Azides
Authors: Wu Dun‐Qi , Guan Zhen‐Yu , Peng Yi , Sun Jian , Zhong Cheng , Deng Qing‐Hai
Published: August 2018

A first example of Fe‐catalyzed dearomative amination of β‐naphthols with aryl azides is described. The method constructs a nitrogen‐containing quaternary carbon center catalyzed by cheap and readily available iron salt FeCl2, and affords a series of α‐amino‐β‐naphthalenones in good to excellent yields under simple and mild reaction conditions. Preliminary experimental and computational studies suggest that the reaction is probably initiated by iron‐iminyl diradical and followed by intramolecular hydrogen transfer to generate iron‐aminyl radical and finally an intramolecular radical combination reaction.

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Rationalizing Small‐Molecule Donor Design toward High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells: Perspective from Molecular Architectures
Authors: Han Guangchao , Yi Yuanping
Published: August 2018

Tuning donor/acceptor interfacial arrangements and electron‐transfer processes in the active layers is crucial to improve the performance of organic solar cells (OSCs). Here, the impact of different molecular architectures (i.e., A–π–D–π–A, D–π–A–π–D and π–A–D–A–π) of the donors on the interfacial arrangements and electronic processes in small‐molecule (SM) OSCs is elucidated by means of multiscale theoretical simulations. An A–π–D–π–A structured donor with sizable terminal units, extended π bridges, and bulky side groups on the backbone core is proved to be able to simultaneously obtain both efficient charge generation and migration as well as suppressed charge recombination, thus paving the way for the rational design of electron donors toward high‐performance SM OSCs.
Proteoliposome Engineering with Cell‐Free Membrane Protein Synthesis: Control of Membrane Protein Sorting into Liposomes by Chaperoning Systems
Authors: Ando Mitsuru , Schikula Shun , Sasaki Yoshihiro , Akiyoshi Kazunari
Published: August 2018

Integral membrane proteins (IMPs) modulate key cellular processes; their dysfunctions are closely related to disease. However, production of IMPs in active conformations for further study is hindered by aggregation and toxicity in living expression systems. IMPs are therefore produced in cell‐free systems employing liposome chaperoning, but membrane integration of the nascent IMPs is suboptimal and orientation of the integrated proteins remains uncontrollable. Thus, an artificial membrane protein sorting system is developed, based on polyhistidine/nickel‐chelate affinity, combined with cell‐free membrane protein synthesis. Its proof of concept is demonstrated with a N‐terminal hexahistadine‐fused conexin‐43 (NHis–Cx43) model IMP. Nickel‐chelating liposomes efficiently incorporate twofold newly synthesized NHis–Cx43 compared with Cx43. NHis–Cx43, when synthesized in this system, forms dye‐permeable hemichannels, similar to plasma membrane pores formed by Cx43 in cells. The topology of incorporated NHis–Cx43 indicates two orientations in the liposomal membranes. However, NHis–Cx43 orientation is controlled, resulting in single topology, by combination of the natural molecular chaperone DnaKJE. Successful synthesis and at least 4.5‐fold increase lipid incorporation are also achieved with three other NHis‐fused IMPs, including α‐helix and β‐barrel IMPs. Overall, this simple membrane protein sorting system is usable combined with molecular chaperones to prepare proteoliposomes for many applications.
Clinical and metabolomic risk factors associated with rapid renal function decline in sickle cell disease
Authors: Xu Julia Z. , Garrett Melanie E. , Soldano Karen L. , Chen Sean T. , Clish Clary B. , Ashley‐Koch Allison E. , Telen Marilyn J.
Published: August 2018

Sickle cell disease (SCD) nephropathy and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) are risk factors for early mortality. Furthermore, rate of eGFR decline predicts progression to end‐stage renal disease in many clinical settings. However, factors predicting renal function decline in SCD are poorly documented. Using clinical, laboratory, genetic, and metabolomic data, we evaluated predictors of renal function decline in a longitudinal cohort of 288 adults (mean age 33.0 years). In 193 subjects with 5‐year follow‐up data, mean rate of eGFR decline was 2.35 mL/min/1.73 m2/year, nearly twice that of African American adults overall. Hyperfiltration was prevalent at baseline (61.1%), and 36.8% of subjects experienced rapid eGFR decline (≥3 mL/min/1.73 m2/year). Severe Hb genotype; proteinuria; higher platelet and reticulocyte counts, and systolic BP; and lower Hb level and BMI were associated with rapid decline. A risk scoring system was created using these 7 variables and was highly predictive of rapid eGFR decline, with odds of rapid decline increasing 1.635‐fold for every point increment (P < 0.0001). Rapid eGFR decline was also associated with higher organ system severity score and peak creatinine. Additionally, two metabolites (asymmetric dimethylarginine and quinolinic acid) were associated with rapid decline. Further investigation into longitudinal SCD nephropathy (SCDN) trajectory, early markers of SCDN, and tools for risk stratification should inform interventional studies targeted to slowing GFR decline and improving SCD outcomes.
Single‐stage synthesis of electrospun polyurethane scaffold impregnated with zinc nitrate nanofibers for wound healing applications
Authors: Jaganathan Saravana Kumar , Mani Mohan Prasath
Published: August 2018

In this study, a wound dressing scaffold was developed based on polyurethane (PU, 9 wt %) incorporated with zinc nitrate nanofibers (9 wt %) using an electrospinning technique. The morphological studies revealed that the electrospun nanocomposites showed smaller fiber (568 ± 136.69 nm) and pore diameters (703 ± 60.76 nm) than the pure PU (fiber diameter 1159 ± 147.48 nm and pore diameter 1087 ± 62.51 nm). Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy confirmed the presence of zinc nitrate in the PU matrix. The formation of hydrogen bonds and the enhanced weight residue found by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis revealed the interaction of PU with zinc nitrate. Moreover, the contact angle measurements revealed the hydrophilic nature of the electrospun nanocomposite (84° ± 4.041°) compared to the control (100° ± 0.5774°). Mechanical testing and atomic force microscopy showed an improvement in the tensile strength (15.98 MPa) and surface roughness (277 nm) of the fabricated nanocomposites compared to the PU membrane (tensile strength 7.12 MPa and surface roughness 216 nm). Further, incorporation of zinc nitrate into PU improved the blood compatibility, as demonstrated by the prolonged blood clotting time (APTT 188 ± 4 s and PT 102.7 ± 3.786 s) compared to the pure PU (APTT 147.7 ± 3.512 s and PT 84.67 ± 2.517 s), as revealed in coagulation assays. Moreover, the electrospun nanocomposites showed a low hemolytic index and enhanced fibroblast proliferation rates, as indicated in the hemolysis and cytocompatibility studies. The newly developed wound dressing displayed better physicochemical characteristics, prolonged blood clotting time, and enhanced fibroblast proliferation rates, indicating that it might be utilized as an alternate candidate for wound dressings. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 46942.
Impact of nanoparticles on the process‐induced distortions of carbon fiber reinforced plastics: An experimental and simulative approach
Authors: Exner Wibke , Hein Robert , Mahrholz Thorsten , Wierach Peter , Monner Hans Peter , Sinapius Michael
Published: August 2018

This article investigates the potential of aluminum oxide nanoparticles for the reduction of process‐induced distortions of carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP). Therefore the matrix properties, which affect the distortions, are experimentally and mechanistically analyzed in detail at various particle contents. The results clearly show an increasing impact of raised particle content on gelation, chemical and thermal shrinkage, on Young's modulus, as well as on Poisson's ratio. These alterations can be successfully transferred to reduce spring‐in of L‐shaped CFRP brackets, which are manufactured by infusion technology. However, it is found that particle contents higher than 5 wt % are needed to influence these parameters. For further understanding of the parameters controlling spring‐in, a numerical sensitivity analysis is performed by the correlation of various matrix parameters and the induced distortions. The results from a structural simulation reveal that changes in thermal and chemical shrinkage as well as in gelation have a major impact on the distortions, but the modes of action of the particles also have to be taken into consideration. These mechanistical insights about nanoparticle impacts might be a valuable approach to lower or overcome distortions in composite materials in the future. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47031.
Synthesis of Monodisperse Naphthalene Dendrons for the Application of Dendrimers
Authors: Jillella Raveendra , Kim Jaewoong , Kim Kun Hee , Han Jin Wook , Oh Chang Ho
Published: August 2018

Syntheses of dendrons for dendrimer applications are described using napthyl and urethane derivatives. The napthol, 1‐(3‐hydroxy‐6‐(methoxymethoxy)naphthalen‐1‐yl)ethan‐1‐one (h), was synthesized by employing Au‐catalyzed cyclization of the corresponding propargylic carboxylates. Polynapthol dendrons (i, j, k, and l) were prepared from substitution reactions of napthyl derivative h with alkyl/aryl halides under basic conditions. Branched polyurethane compounds (q, r, and s) were also prepared from addition reactions of 1,3,5‐tris(6‐isocyanteohexyl)‐1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4,6‐trione (p) with various alcohols under Lewis acidic conditions. The photophysical properties of the synthesized compounds h, k, and j were studied.
Highly Diastereo‐ and Enantioselective Organocatalyzed Michael/Oxa‐Michael Sequence: Asymmetric Synthesis of Pyranonaphthoquinone Derivatives
Authors: Kim Yong Hwan , Jang Subin , Kim Dae Young
Published: August 2018

An efficient asymmetric synthesis of pyranonaphthoquinones via Michael addition and oxo‐Michael cyclization sequence of 2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone with (E)‐2‐nitroallylic acetates has been developed. The synthetically useful chiral pyranonaphthoquinone derivatives were obtained in moderate to high yields and high enantioselectivities. This approach offers a facile way to prepare chiral pyranonaphthoquinone derivatives with a wide range of functional group tolerance.
Botulinum toxin A modifies nociceptive withdrawal reflex in subacute stroke patients
Authors: Alvisi Elena , Serrao Mariano , Conte Carmela , Alfonsi Enrico , Tassorelli Cristina , Prunetti Paolo , Cristina Silvano , Perrotta Armando , Pierelli Francesco , Sandrini Giorgio
Published: August 2018

Objectives

The aims of this study were to evaluate the pattern of the nociceptive withdrawal reflex (NWR) of the upper limb at rest and after injection of Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT‐A) in poststroke subacute hemiparetic patients.

Methods

Fourteen patients with poststroke subacute hemiparesis underwent clinical and instrumental evaluation and BoNT‐A injection. Painful electrical stimulation was applied to induce the NWR. Baseline EMG activity and NWR recordings (EMG and kinematic response) were performed at T0, one month (T1), and three months (T2) after the BoNT‐A injection, as were Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores.

Results

Comparison of results at T0, T1, and T2 revealed significant changes in the MAS score for the elbow (p < 0.001) and wrist joints (p < 0.001) and in the FIM score at T0 and T2. BoNT‐A injection had a significant effect on both NWR amplitude and baseline EMG activity in the posterior deltoid (PD) and flexor carpi radialis (FCR) muscles as well as in all averaged muscles. Analysis of elbow kinematics before and after treatment revealed that the reflex probability rates were significantly higher at T1 and T2 than at T0.

Conclusion

Injection of BoNT‐A in the subacute phase of stroke can modify both the baseline EMG activity and the NWR‐related EMG responses in the upper limb muscles irrespective of the site of injection; furthermore, the reflex‐mediated defensive mechanical responses, that is, shoulder extension and abduction and elbow flexion, increased after treatment. BoNT‐A injection may be a useful treatment in poststroke spasticity with a potential indirect effect on spinal neurons.
Transient topographical disorientation due to right‐sided hippocampal hemorrhage
Authors: Irving Stephanie , Pradhan Cauchy , Dieterich Marianne , Brandt Thomas , Zwergal Andreas , Schöberl Florian
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Topographical disorientation is defined as the inability to recognize familiar or unfamiliar environments. While its slowly progressive development is a common feature of neurodegenerative processes like Alzheimer's dementia, acute presentations are less frequent and mostly caused by strategic lesions within the cerebral navigation network. Depending on the lesion site, topographical disorientation can originate from deficits in landmark recognition and utilization for route planning (egocentric navigation deficit), or disturbance of an overarching cognitive map of the spatial environment (allocentric navigation deficit). However, objective measurements of spatial navigation performance over time are largely missing in patients with topographical disorientation.

Methods

We here report a 55‐year‐old patient with acute topographical disorientation as the single symptom of right‐sided hippocampal hemorrhage and present quantitative gaze‐monitoring head camera‐based analyses of his path‐finding strategy and visual exploration behavior in a real space navigation paradigm.

Results

The patient exhibited severe allocentric and also egocentric navigation deficits during the acute phase, shown by higher error rates at finding target items. In addition, he showed a more extensive use of search saccades toward, and fixations on, landmarks that could potentially serve as spatial cues. These deficits had been completely compensated for after four months, when the patient performed unremarkably in the real space navigation task, and used even more strongly allocentric path optimization strategies than age‐matched controls.

Conclusions

This case report highlights the integral function and right‐sided dominance of the hippocampal formation in the cerebral navigation network in humans. It shows that the cognitive map can be restored completely despite a residual hippocampal lesion, which illustrates the enormous plasticity of the cerebral navigation network in humans.
Patient‐reported and performance‐based measures of walking in mild–moderate Parkinson's disease
Authors: Leavy Breiffni , Löfgren Niklas , Nilsson Maria , Franzén Erika
Published: August 2018

Background

Knowledge of the relationships between patient‐reported and performance‐based walking measures in Parkinson's disease (PD) should inform clinical decision‐making. The Walk‐12G reliably captures perceived walking difficulties but has not been compared to performance‐based walking in laboratory or free‐living settings or across different groups.

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between patient‐reported walking difficulties (Walk‐12G) and performance‐based walking in laboratory and free‐living conditions and to determine whether the Walk‐12G can distinguish between the subgroups, (i) people with/without PD and (ii) mild/moderate disease stages.

Methods

Forty‐seven people without and 49 people with PD (Hoehn and Yahr stage II and III) were assessed in relation to patient‐reported walking difficulties (Walk‐12G scale); spatiotemporal gait characteristics (Pace; Rhythm; Asymmetry; Variability; and Postural control) using a laboratory‐based electronic walkway; and walking behavior (mean steps/day and minutes of brisk walking/day) using accelerometers in free‐living conditions.

Results

The Walk‐12G correlated moderately with the spatiotemporal domain step velocity (r = −0.46) and walking behavior, measured as mean steps/day (r = −0.46). Weaker correlations were observed for step length and minutes spent in brisk walking (r = −0.36 and r = −0.35, respectively). Poor correlations were observed for all other spatiotemporal domains. The Walk‐12G could distinguish between people with and without PD (Effect size, r = 0.82) and between those at mild/moderate disease stages (r = 0.34).

Conclusions

Perceived walking difficulties showed weak to moderate associations with performance‐based measures of walking in mild–moderate PD. As the strongest associations were observed for step velocity and walking behavior, targeting these specific gait aspects could improve perceived walking difficulties in daily life.
Polymeric curcumin nanoparticles by a facile in situ method for macrophage targeted delivery
Authors: Jahagirdar Priyanka S. , Gupta Pramod K. , Kulkarni Savita P. , Devarajan Padma V.
Published: August 2018

Targeting macrophages is a promising strategy for improved therapy of intracellular infections as macrophages exhibit rapid phagocytosis of particles >200 nm. Entrapment of Curcumin (CUR) in nanocarriers could provide bioenhancement and macrophage targeting. We present a simple and facile in situ nanoprecipitation approach for instantaneous and on‐site generation of curcumin nanoparticles (ISCurNP). ISCurNP optimised by Box‐Behnken design exhibited average size of 208.25 ± 7.55 nm and entrapment efficiency of 90.16 ± 1.17%. Differential scanning calorimetry and X‐Ray diffraction confirmed amorphization of CUR in ISCurNP. Sustained release was observed over 72 hr in vitro at lysosomal pH 4.5. Rapid and high uptake in RAW 264.7 macrophages was confirmed by flow cytometry and high performance liquid chromatography. Confocal microscopy established localisation of ISCurNP in lysosomal compartment. The facile in situ nanoprecipitation method provides simple, scalable technology to enable macrophage targeted delivery of CUR, with great promise for improved therapy of intracellular infections.
Reducing variability in the measurement of gluten contamination in oats, oilseeds, and pulses by improving sample preparation
Authors: Tittlemier Sheryl A. , Zirdum Tanya , Chan Jason , Bestvater Michael , Pleskach Kerri , Massong Frank , Stoughton Melonie
Published: August 2018

Background and objectives

The variability in gluten in non‐gluten‐containing grains (NGCG) processed using two preparation schemes was evaluated with the aim of minimizing effects of sample heterogeneity on gluten determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The relationship between gluten concentration as determined by ELISA and visually assessed contamination of NGCG with wheat, durum, barley, and rye was investigated.

Findings

Low variability between duplicate aliquots taken from test portions (0–30.6% relative standard deviation [RSD]) demonstrated the ELISA itself was precise. In the first scheme, variability among test portions ranged from 1% to 143% RSD, with only half in the range of 1–50%. Using scheme 2, variability in gluten among test portions ranged from 1% to 85% RSD, with more than three quarters in the range of 1–50%. High lipid content hemp seed was a particular challenge to grind, and this was reflected in higher variability in gluten results between test portions (mean RSD = 61%).

Conclusions

Subsampling ground samples using rotary sample division and the use of a 1‐g test portion in scheme 2 decreased the variability of gluten results for most samples. At concentrations relevant to existing thresholds of gluten contamination (e.g. 20 mg/kg), there was no relationship between gluten concentration in NGCG and cereal contamination as determined by visual inspection.

Significance and novelty

This study provides guidance on how to improve the analysis of gluten contamination in NGCG by ELISA and describes the absence of a relationship between ELISA‐determined gluten and the visual assessment of contamination in NGCG.
Assessment and management of a 1.77‐cm2 mitral leaflet perforation as a subclinical cause of mitral regurgitation
Authors: Patel Paras , Lee Kevin , Aderinto Adedoyin , Benz Michael , Tsompanidis Antonios
Published: August 2018

Key Clinical Message

Anterior mitral valve perforations are commonly due to underlying infective endocarditis, which can lead to significant mitral valve insufficiency. In these cases, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for infective endocarditis. After appropriate imaging, immediate surgical intervention is unequivocally the choice of management here for optimal patient outcomes.