bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deposition of PdPtAu Nanoparticles on Hollow Nanospheres of Fe3O4 as a New Catalyst for Methanol Electrooxidation: Application in Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
Authors: Haghnegahdar Sara , Noroozifar Meissam
Published: October 2017

In this study, immobilized hollow nanospheres of Fe3O4 with Palladium, Platinum and Gold nanoparticles (Fe3O4HNS‐PdPtAuNPs) was synthesized by hydrothermal and chemical reduction methods and characterized by various techniques such as field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive analysis of X‐rays and elemental mapping images. The electrocatalytic activity of the modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with Fe3O4HNS‐PdPtAuNPs (GCE/Fe3O4HNS‐PdPtAuNPs) toward methanol electrooxidation was investigated by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry in 1 M NaOH solution. According to the results, Fe3O4HNS‐PdPtAuNPs catalyst demonstrated the highest efficiency for methanol electrooxidation in comparison with Fe3O4HNS‐PdNPs, Fe3O4HNS‐PtNPs, Fe3O4HNS‐PdAuNPs, Fe3O4HNS‐PtAuNPs and Fe3O4HNS‐PdPtNPs. The value of electron transfer coefficient (α) and the ratio of current densities (If/Ib) for methanol oxidation on the Fe3O4HNS‐PdPtAuNPs/GC catalyst were calculated 0.61 and 5.13, respectively. The reaction order was discovered to be 0.98 for CH3OH. A direct methanol fuel cell was developed with the suggested catalyst under several conditions.
Correlations Among Ultrasound‐Guided Diffuse Optical Tomography, Microvessel Density, and Breast Cancer Prognosis
Authors: Niu Sihua , Zhu Qingli , Jiang Yuxin , Zhu Jiaan , Xiao Mengsu , You Shanshan , Zhou Weixun , Xiao Yu
Published: October 2017

Objectives

To investigate the correlation among ultrasound‐guided diffuse optical tomography (DOT), microvessel density, and breast cancer prognosis.

Methods

Before surgery, the total hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations of 184 female patients with breast cancer with only a single lesion were measured. During follow‐up, 23 patients had recurrence or metastatic disease after surgery. Among these patients, 18 with recurrence or metastatic disease within 3 years after surgery were paired with 18 patients without recurrence or metastatic disease. We retrospectively reviewed the pathologic sections of those 36 patients, conducted immunohistochemical staining, and counted the microvessel densities. Then we analyzed the correlation between microvessel density and total Hb, compared total Hb and microvessel density among breast cancers with different prognoses, and tested the value of DOT in predicting the prognosis of breast cancer.

Results

Microvessel density and total Hb were linearly correlated (r = 0.584; P < .001). Total Hb and microvessel density were significantly increased in the metastasis group (P = .001 and .027, respectively). A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that at a total Hb cutoff value of 221.7 μmol/L, the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve of DOT for predicting recurrence or metastasis were 0.826, 0.516, and 0.660, respectively.

Conclusions

The total Hb concentration can reflect a tumor's blood supply. Patients with a high total Hb concentration and microvessel density have a higher risk for a poorer prognosis. Total Hb can be used as an indicator of breast cancer prognosis. Diffuse optical tomography can help physicians identify patients with a high risk of metastasis and make clinical decisions.
Comparison of Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy Guided by Ultrasound and Bronchoscopy in Critically Ill Obese Patients
Authors: Song Jieqiong , Xuan Lizhen , Wu Wei , Zhu Duming , Zheng Yijun
Published: October 2017

Objectives

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) with ultrasound (US) or bronchoscopic guidance for critically ill patients, notably obese patients.

Methods

This work was a retrospective study. The study included mechanically ventilated patients who underwent PDT from August 2013 to July 2015 in the Department of Critical Care Medicine of Zhongshan Hospital. The patients were classified according to the different guidance methods during tracheotomy and their body mass index in the following 4 groups: normal bronchoscopy group, normal US group, obese bronchoscopy group, and obese US group. The parameters, including operation time, number of punctures, intraoperative and postoperative complications, duration of the intensive care unit stay, hospitalization time, and mortality, were recorded and compared between groups.

Results

Compared with the obese bronchoscopy group, the obese US group had a significantly shorter PDT operation time (mean ± SD, 12.8 ± 4.8 versus 16.2 ± 4.4 minutes; P = .026), fewer punctures (P = .011), and a lesser amount of intraoperative hemorrhage (12.1 ± 4.6 versus 16.8 ± 4.3 mL; P = .009). There were no significant differences in these parameters between the normal US and normal bronchoscopy groups.

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐guided PDT significantly reduced the number of punctures and the operation time compared with bronchoscopy‐guided PDT, and it decreased intraoperative hemorrhage in critically ill obese patients. Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy with US guidance was a faster, safer, and more accurate method of airway management.
A field test method to quantitatively determine oxidation stability of gasoline engine oil
Authors: Wei Lei , Duan Haitao , Chen Song , Jia Dan , Qian Xuzheng , Cheng Bingxue , Liu Jianfang , Li Jian
Published: October 2017

As oxidation stability of engine oil was hard to evaluate in field, this paper tried to propose a field test method to determine the oxidation onset temperature (OOT) of gasoline engine oil. A theoretical model of grey average value of oil spot image and OOT was established by using spot test method, image processing, and Pressure Differential Scanning Calorimetery method. The oil sample unknown OOT was taken to spot test and image processing in field to obtain the grey average value. The OOT can be calculated by bringing the grey average value to the established theoretical model. This approach was successfully used for OOT determination of 4 different kinds of engine oils with good accuracy and precision. The absolute error of mineral oils was less than 4.52°C, and synthetic oils were less than 1.2°C. This convenient, low‐cost, and reliable method can achieve OOT of engine oil in field determination and provide reference for engine oil drain interval evaluation.
Using the particle swarm optimization method for the constitutive modeling of AZ31B
Authors: Li Z. , Dai G. , Shi J. , Jarrar F. , Ozturk F. , Sheikh‐Ahmad J.
Published: October 2017

The magnesium alloy AZ31B has a great potential for lightweight applications that do not require high strength. The superplastic forming method is already being used to form this alloy into complex lightweight components. However, in order to provide accurate predictions of the superplastic process of AZ31B, suitable constitutive models should be established. In this paper, the particle swarm optimization method is used to identify the parameters of a suitable constitutive model. High temperature bulge experiments are used to validate the model. Results indicate that the proposed power law model gives more accurate predictions for the lower strain rates.
Comparison of technical and commercial aspects regarding cold forming, superplastic forming and hot deep drawing
Authors: Beck W. , Wagner S. , Schauer K.
Published: October 2017

Titanium parts can be very expensive or can be a good compromise between cost and efficiency especially when expected cost and weight reduction is reached or exceeded. Titanium properties are always well desired but the high level of material cost and the cost of manufacturing are not appreciated. Applicable forming processes for sheet metal parts range from conventional cold forming of commercially pure titanium with subsequent separate annealing up to hot forming processes like hot bending, hot calibration, hot deep drawing and superplastic forming with in‐process annealing. Each process has limitations and/or special advantages. There are big differences in material waste, cycle time, process cost, overweight from minimum wall thickness requirements and tool design. Suitable choice of process and the technical feasibility is mostly depending on part geometry also in respect of constant wall thickness and type of alloy. The paper describes decision guidelines to find the right process for a given inquiry concerning alloy, service loads, number of load cycles, temperature, quantity, optical appearance, etc. The total picture has to include the following assembly processes. Some representative solutions are described.
Neurofibromatosis type 1 and optic pathway glioma: Molecular interplay and therapeutic insights
Authors: Khatua Soumen , Gutmann David H. , Packer Roger J.
Published: October 2017

Children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are predisposed to develop central nervous system neoplasms, the most common of which are low‐grade gliomas (LGGs). The absence of human NF1 associated LGG‐derived cell lines, coupled with an inability to generate patient‐derived xenograft models, represents barriers to profile molecularly targeted therapies for these tumors. Thus, genetically engineered mouse models have been identified to evaluate the interplay between Nf1‐deficient tumor cells and nonneoplastic stromal cells to evaluate potential therapies for these neoplasms. Future treatments might also consider targeting the nonneoplastic cells in NF1–LGGs to reduce tumor growth and neurologic morbidity in affected children.
Could we use parent report as a valid proxy of child report on anxiety, depression, and distress? A systematic investigation of father–mother–child triads in children successfully treated for leukemia
Authors: Abate Cybelle , Lippé Sarah , Bertout Laurence , Drouin Simon , Krajinovic Maja , Rondeau Émélie , Sinnett Daniel , Laverdière Caroline , Sultan Serge
Published: October 2017

Background

Systematic assessment of emotional distress is recommended in after care. Yet, it is unclear if parent report may be used as a proxy of child report. The aim of this study was to assess agreements and differences and explore possible moderators of disagreement between child and parent ratings.

Methods

Sixty‐two young survivors treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (9–18 years) and both parents responded to the Beck Youth Inventory (anxiety and depression) and the distress rating scale on the child's status. Parents completed the Brief Symptom Inventory‐18 on their own psychological status. Systematic analyses of agreement and differences were performed.

Results

Mother–child and father–child agreements were fair on anxiety, depression, and distress (median intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.37). Differences between parents and children were medium sized (median d = 0.55) with parents giving higher scores than their children on anxiety, depression, and distress. Mothers reported distress more frequently than fathers (39 vs. 17%) when children reported none. The child being female and lower parental income were associated with lower agreement in fathers when rating child distress. Higher levels of parental psychological symptoms were consistently associated with lower agreement.

Conclusions

Parent–child differences when rating adolescent survivors’ difficulties may be more important than previously thought. Parent report probably cannot be considered as a valid proxy of older child report on such internalized domains as anxiety, depression, or distress in the after‐care clinic. Parents’ report is also likely to be influenced by their own mood, a factor that should be corrected for when using their report.
Unlicensed pharmaceutical preparations for clinical patient care: Ensuring safety
Authors: de Wilde Sofieke , de Jong Maria G.H. , Le Brun Paul P.H. , Guchelaar Henk‐Jan , Schimmel Kirsten J.M.
Published: October 2017

Most medicinal products dispensed to patients have marketing authorization (MA) to ensure high quality of the product, safety, and efficacy. However, in daily practice, to treat patients adequately, there is a medical need for drugs that do not hold MA. To meet this medical need, medicinal products are used in clinical care without MA (unlicensed), such as products prepared by (local) pharmacies: the pharmaceutical preparations. Three types of pharmaceutical preparations are distinguished: (i) reconstitution in excess of summary of product characteristics; (ii) adaptation of a licensed medicinal product (outside its official labeling); (iii) medicinal products from an active pharmaceutical ingredient. Although unlicensed, patients may expect the same quality for these unlicensed pharmaceutical preparations as for the licensed medicinal products. To assure this quality, a proper risk‐benefit assessment and proper documentation in (centralized) patient registries and linking to a national pharmacovigilance database should be in place. Based on a risk assessment matrix, requirements for quality assurance can be determined, which has impact on the level of documentation of a pharmaceutical preparation.

In this paper, the approach for good documentation including quality assurance and benefit‐risk assessment will be discussed and possibilities for patient registries are described to make these crucial preparations available for regular patient care.

KEY POINTS

Ensuring pharmaceutical quality and performing a proper benefit‐risk assessment will guarantee safe use of pharmaceutical preparations.

Good documentation of (ultra‐)orphan treatments can be collected in centralized patient registries and should be combined with existing information in (inter)national databases and self‐reflection of patients.

Linking patient registries to a centralized database for adverse drug events is highly recommended as it increases safety control of the (ultra) orphan pharmaceutical preparations.
Second‐Language Reading Difficulties Among Native Chinese‐Speaking Students Learning to Read English: The Roles of Native‐ and Second‐Language Skills
Authors: Li Shifeng , Tao Sha , Joshi R. Malatesha , Xu Qinfang
Published: October 2017

The authors report two studies that examined how native‐ and second‐language skills were related to second‐language reading difficulties for native Chinese‐speaking fourth graders learning to read English. In study 1, 50 poor English readers with Chinese‐reading difficulties (the PB group) and 34 poor English readers without Chinese‐reading difficulties (the PE group) were compared with 53 typically developing controls on phonological awareness, rapid naming, and phonological memory. Results showed that both groups of poor English readers showed English phonemic awareness and rapid naming deficits in both languages and that the PB group had additional skill deficits in English onset‐rime awareness and phonological memory in both languages. In study 2, 69 poor English readers (25 in the PE group) trained on English phonological skills were compared with 43 typically developing controls before the training, right after, and one year later. Results showed that poor English readers caught up with their typically developing peers on English phonemic awareness irrespective of their Chinese‐reading status and that the PE group also caught up on English pseudoword reading and retained their gains one year later. After one year, about one third of the PE group performed comparably to their typically developing peers not only on English reading performance but also on bilingual language skills. However, the majority of the poor English readers persistently showed poor performance in English reading and phonemic awareness, as well as in Chinese and English rapid naming. Findings highlight both language‐universal and specific skill deficits contributing to second‐language reading difficulties.
Using computational fluid dynamics to improve the drag coefficient estimates for tall buildings under wind loading
Authors: de Macêdo Wahrhaftig Alexandre , da Silva Marcelo Araujo
Published: October 2017

Wind is the main horizontal force acting on tall buildings. This force is proportional to the drag coefficient. The drag coefficient is an important factor in their structural design. Designers have historically relied upon experimental wind tunnel results to estimate the drag coefficient. However, this process is both expensive and time consuming. In this study, we alternatively computed the drag coefficient (apart from the pressure, force, and bending moment) using computational fluid dynamics for a typical 93‐m‐high residential building. The simulation considers the actual building geometry, as well as the neighborhood roughness effects. We compared these results with the conventional estimates contained in the Brazilian code NBR‐6123/1988 and Eurocode EC1. The results indicated that the pressures obtained herein near the top of the building were lower compared to those obtained using conventional estimation methods given in codes. Comparatively, the obtained bending moment relative to the base of the building was higher, indicating the existence of significant drag forces not considered in codes. In fluid dynamics simulations, the drag coefficient is determined for each terrain condition. Computational fluid dynamics can effectively simulate the drag force and resultant forces in the direction of the flow, as well as the vortices that result during coating detachment and other types of damage.
Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project discovery and replication criteria for cases and controls: Data from a community‐based prospective cohort study with autopsy follow‐up
Authors: Crane Paul K. , Foroud Tatiana , Montine Thomas J. , Larson Eric B.
Published: October 2017

Introduction

The Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project (ADSP) used different criteria for assigning case and control status from the discovery and replication phases of the project. We considered data from a community‐based prospective cohort study with autopsy follow‐up where participants could be categorized as case, control, or neither by both definitions and compared the two sets of criteria.

Methods

We used data from the Adult Changes in Thought (ACT) study including Diagnostic and Statistical Manual–IV criteria for dementia status, McKhann et al. criteria for clinical Alzheimer's disease, and Braak and Consortium to Establish a Registry for AD findings on neurofibrillary tangles and neuritic plaques to categorize the 621 ACT participants of European ancestry who died and came to autopsy. We applied ADSP discovery and replication definitions to identify controls, cases, and people who were neither controls nor cases.

Results

There was some agreement between the discovery and replication definitions. Major areas of discrepancy included the finding that only 40% of the discovery sample controls had sufficiently low levels of neurofibrillary tangles and neuritic plaques to be considered controls by the replication criteria and the finding that 16% of the replication phase cases were diagnosed with non‐AD dementia during life and thus were excluded as cases for the discovery phase.

Conclusions

These findings should inform interpretation of genetic association findings from the ADSP. Differences in genetic association findings between the two phases of the study may reflect these different phenotype definitions from the discovery and replication phase of the ADSP.
STASIS AND SLUMS: THE CHANGING TEMPORAL, SPATIAL, AND GENDERED MEANING OF ‘HOME’ IN NORTHEASTERN KENYA
Authors: BLOCH SEAN
Published: October 2017

The conflict referred to variously as the ‘Shifta War’ or ‘gaf Daba’ took place in northeastern Kenya from 1963–8. In the hopes of containing the ‘shifta’, or guerillas, fighting against it, the Kenyan state implemented a policy of forced settlement or ‘manyattazation’. This article explores the temporal, spatial, and gendered implications of ‘manyattazation’ and its antecedents. It indicates that changes in spatial organization transformed the economic and cultural realms of northeastern Kenyans in ways that resonate into the present. Government ‘manyattas’ began primarily as trading centers, became virtual prisons during the war, and continue to be sites of conflict over the meaning of home. This article posits a local history of altered migration in which state progress is paradoxically linked to poverty and stasis, through temporal discourse.
Review Essay: On Friendship
Authors: Abbey Ruth
Published: October 2017

The topic of friendship is enjoying a renewed interest among political theorists and philosophers. The three books reviewed here join several other recent works on friendship and the creation of a journal of friendship studies,Amity. Despite their shared focus on friendship, the three works under review complement rather than duplicate one another. Alexander Nehamas's work is designed for a general readership, with scholarly nuance being largely relegated to the notes. The books by P. E. Digeser and Ann Ward are more typical academic publications. While Ward focuses almost exclusively on Aristotle, Nehamas and Digeser treat him as the touchstone for all later discussions of friendship in the Western tradition.
The J-curve Association between Systolic Blood Pressure and Clinical Outcomes in Ischemic Stroke or TIA: The BOSS Study
Authors: Xie Xuewei , Xu Jie , Gu Hongqiu , Tao Yongli , Chen Pan , Wang Yilong , Wang Yongjun
Published: October 2017

We aimed to assess the association between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and clinical outcome in 2,397 ischemic stroke (IS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients from the Blood Pressure and Clinical Outcome in TIA or Ischemic Stroke (BOSS) study. BOSS study was a hospital-based, prospective cohort study. The SBP was defined as mean value of 90 days self-measured SBP after onset. Cox proportional hazards models were conducted to test the risk of combined vascular events (CVE) and stroke recurrence among different SBP categories. Restricted cubic splines were used to explore the shape of associations between SBP and clinical outcomes. A J-shaped association of SBP with CVE and stroke recurrence within 90 days was observed (P nonlinearity < 0.001 for both). After adjusting for age, gender, medical history, atrial fibrillation, admission NHISS score, and secondary prevention. The hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of SBP <115 and ⩾165 mmHg compared with 125–134 mmHg were 3.45 (1.11–10.66) and 7.20 (2.91–17.80) for CVE, 2.68 (0.75–9.53) and 9.69 (3.86–24.35) for stroke recurrence, respectively. Similar J-shaped relationships were found after 1 year of follow-up. In conclusion, both high and low SBP are associated with poor prognosis in this population.
Pharmacological inhibition of myostatin improves skeletal muscle mass and function in a mouse model of stroke
Authors: Desgeorges Marine Maud , Devillard Xavier , Toutain Jérome , Castells Josiane , Divoux Didier , Arnould David Frédéric , Haqq Christopher , Bernaudin Myriam , Durieux Anne-Cécile , Touzani Omar , Freyssenet Damien Gilles
Published: October 2017

In stroke patients, loss of skeletal muscle mass leads to prolonged weakness and less efficient rehabilitation. We previously showed that expression of myostatin, a master negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass, was strongly increased in skeletal muscle in a mouse model of stroke. We therefore tested the hypothesis that myostatin inhibition would improve recovery of skeletal muscle mass and function after cerebral ischemia. Cerebral ischemia (45 minutes) was induced by intraluminal right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Swiss male mice were randomly assigned to Sham-operated mice (n = 10), MCAO mice receiving the vehicle (n = 15) and MCAO mice receiving an anti-myostatin PINTA745 (n = 12; subcutaneous injection of 7.5 mg.kg−1 PINTA745 immediately after surgery, 3, 7 and 10 days after MCAO). PINTA745 reduced body weight loss and improved body weight recovery after cerebral ischemia, as well as muscle strength and motor function. PINTA745 also increased muscle weight recovery 15 days after cerebral ischemia. Mechanistically, the better recovery of skeletal muscle mass in PINTA745-MCAO mice involved an increased expression of genes encoding myofibrillar proteins. Therefore, an anti-myostatin strategy can improve skeletal muscle recovery after cerebral ischemia and may thus represent an interesting strategy to combat skeletal muscle loss and weakness in stroke patients.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Xanthine Oxidoreductase Inhibitors on Haemodialysis Patients using a Marginal Structural Model
Authors: Ishii Takeo , Taguri Masataka , Tamura Kouichi , Oyama Kunio
Published: October 2017

A lower serum uric acid (UA) level has been associated with a higher mortality rate in haemodialysis patients. We investigated the long-term confounding factors of UA and mortality, and fitted a marginal structural model (MSM) based on the causal effect of xanthine oxidoreductase inhibitors (XORi). In total, 2429 patients on regular dialysis from April 2013 to March 2016 were included, and divided into quintiles by serum UA with Kaplan Meier (KM) curves and log rank analysis. Baseline characteristics were evaluated for relationships with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) using the Cox hazard model. The MSM was used to control for time-dependent confounders of the XORi treatment effect. KM curves indicated that patients in the highest UA quintile had better outcomes than those in the lowest UA quintile. UA was not correlated with all-cause mortality or CVD events in the Cox model; however, the hazard ratio (HR) for mortality was 0.96 for the baseline administration of XORi. The MSM analysis for the effect of XORi treatment on all-cause mortality revealed a HR of 0.24 (95% confidence interval: 0.15-0.38) in all cohorts. These results suggest that XORi improved all-cause mortality in end-stage renal disease, irrespective of the serum UA level.
Structure based biophysical characterization of the PROPPIN Atg18 shows Atg18 oligomerization upon membrane binding
Authors: Scacioc Andreea , Schmidt Carla , Hofmann Tommy , Urlaub Henning , Kühnel Karin , Pérez-Lara Ángel
Published: October 2017

PROPPINs (β-propellers that bind polyphosphoinositides) are PtdIns3P and PtdIns(3,5)P2 binding autophagy related proteins. They contain two phosphatidylinositolphosphate (PIP) binding sites and a conserved FRRG motif is essential for PIP binding. Here we present the 2.0 Å resolution crystal structure of the PROPPIN Atg18 from Pichia angusta. We designed cysteine mutants for labelling with the fluorescence dyes to probe the distances of the mutants to the membrane. These measurements support a model for PROPPIN-membrane binding, where the PROPPIN sits in a perpendicular or slightly tilted orientation on the membrane. Stopped-flow measurements suggest that initial PROPPIN-membrane binding is driven by non-specific PIP interactions. The FRRG motif then retains the protein in the membrane by binding two PIP molecules as evident by a lower dissociation rate for Atg18 in comparison with its PIP binding deficient FTTG mutant. We demonstrate that the amine-specific cross-linker Bis(sulfosuccinimidyl)suberate (BS3), which is used for protein-protein cross-linking can also be applied for cross-linking proteins and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). Cross-linking experiments with liposome bound Atg18 yielded several PE cross-linked peptides. We also observed intermolecular cross-linked peptides, which indicated Atg18 oligomerization. FRET-based stopped-flow measurements revealed that Atg18 rapidly oligomerizes upon membrane binding while it is mainly monomeric in solution.
Hydration number: crucial role in nuclear magnetic relaxivity of Gd(III) chelate-based nanoparticles
Authors: Zairov Rustem , Khakimullina Gulshat , Podyachev Sergey , Nizameev Irek , Safiullin Georgy , Amirov Rustem , Vomiero Alberto , Mustafina Asiya
Published: October 2017

Today, nanostructure-based contrast agents (CA) are emerging in the field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Their sensitivity is reported as greatly improved in comparison to commercially used chelate-based ones. The present work is aimed at revealing the factors governing the efficiency of longitudinal magnetic relaxivity (r1) in aqueous colloids of core-shell Gd(III)-based nanoparticles. We report for the first time on hydration number (q) of gadolinium(III) as a substantial factor in controlling r1 values of polyelectrolyte-stabilized nanoparticles built from water insoluble complexes of Gd(III). The use of specific complex structure enables to reveal the impact of the inner-sphere hydration number on both r1 values for the Gd(III)-based nanoparticles and the photophysical properties of their luminescent Tb(III) and Eu(III) counterparts. The low hydration of TTA-based Gd(III) complexes (q ≈ 1) agrees well with the poor relaxivity values (r1 = 2.82 mM−1s−1 and r2 = 3.95 mM−1s−1), while these values tend to increase substantially (r1 = 12.41 mM−1s−1, r2 = 14.36 mM−1s−1) for aqueous Gd(III)-based colloids, when macrocyclic 1,3-diketonate is applied as the ligand (q ≈ 3). The regularities obtained in this work are fundamental in understanding the efficiency of MRI probes in the fast growing field of nanoparticulate contrast agents.
Digital reconstruction of the Ceprano calvarium (Italy), and implications for its interpretation
Authors: Di Vincenzo Fabio , Profico Antonio , Bernardini Federico , Cerroni Vittorio , Dreossi Diego , Schlager Stefan , Zaio Paola , Benazzi Stefano , Biddittu Italo , Rubini Mauro , Tuniz Claudio , Manzi Giorgio
Published: October 2017

The Ceprano calvarium was discovered in fragments on March 1994 near the town of Ceprano in southern Latium (Italy), embedded in Middle Pleistocene layers. After reconstruction, its morphological features suggests that the specimen belongs to an archaic variant of H. heidelbergensis, representing a proxy for the last common ancestor of the diverging clades that respectively led to H. neanderthalensis and H. sapiens. Unfortunately, the calvarium was taphonomically damaged. The postero-lateral vault, in particular, appears deformed and this postmortem damage may have influenced previous interpretations. Specifically, there is a depression on the fragmented left parietal, while the right cranial wall is warped and angulated. This deformation affected the shape of the occipital squama, producing an inclination of the transverse occipital torus. In this paper, after X-ray microtomography (μCT) of both the calvarium and several additional fragments, we analyze consistency and pattern of the taphonomic deformation that affected the specimen, before the computer-assisted retrodeformation has been performed; this has also provided the opportunity to reappraise early attempts at restoration. As a result, we offer a revised interpretation for the Ceprano calvarium’s original shape, now free from the previous uncertainties, along with insight for its complex depositional and taphonomic history.
Factors controlling throughfall in a Pinus tabulaeformis forest in North China
Authors: Wei Xi , Bi Huaxing , Liang Wenjun
Published: October 2017

The factors that control throughfall in Pinus tabulaeformis plantations were investigated using linear and curve analyses based on direct measurements of rainfall, throughfall and stemflow from 36 rainfall events. The results showed the following: (1) there was significant spatial heterogeneity in throughfall rates in P. tabulaeformis plots; (2) the throughfall rate increased with increasing rainfall; and (3) the rate of increase gradually decreased. When rainfall reached approximately 25 mm, the throughfall rate stabilized. The coefficient of variation of the throughfall rate decreased with increasing rainfall, with a peak at approximately 10 mm of rainfall. The coefficient of variation of throughfall stabilized at 20%, and the coefficient of variation of the throughfall rate stabilized at 17%. A linear regression equation (R2 = 0.76) was derived by fitting the P. tabulaeformis average diameter at breast height (DBH), average tree height, average branch height, stand density, canopy thickness, canopy density, and the rainfall and throughfall rate. A highly positive correlation was found between the throughfall rate, canopy density, rainfall class and tree height (P < 0.01). By establishing a quadratic response surface model of the stand structure indicators and the throughfall rate, R2 was increased to 0.85 (P < 0.01). The quadratic regression analysis demonstrated a highly positive correlation between throughfall rate, canopy density and rainfall class.
Application of the Kohonen map analysis (KMA) on chromatographic datasets to achieve unsupervised classification of olive and non-olive oil samples: a novel approach
Authors: Kumar Keshav
Published: October 2017

A novel procedure that involves application of the Kohonen map analysis (KMA) algorithm on the chromatographic datasets is introduced for quality monitoring of olive oil samples.
Light harvesting in silicon(111) surfaces using covalently attached protoporphyrin IX dyes
Authors: Alderman Nicholas , Danos Lefteris , Fang Liping , Grossel Martin C. , Markvart Tom
Published: October 2017

Silicon photosensitisation via FRET from protoporphyrin dyes covalently attached on silicon(111) surface.
Investigating gas sorption in an rht-metal–organic framework with 1,2,3-triazole groups
Authors: Forrest Katherine A. , Pham Tony , Space Brian
Published: October 2017

Detailed insights into the CO2 and H2 sorption mechanism in an rht-metal–organic framework were obtained through simulations using a classical polarizable force field.
Insertion of terminal alkyne into Pt–N bond of the square planar [PtI2(Me2phen)] complex
Authors: Benedetti Michele , De Castro Federica , Lamacchia Vincenza , Pacifico Concetta , Natile Giovanni , Fanizzi Francesco P.
Published: October 2017

The reactivity of [PtX2(Me2phen)] complexes (X = Cl, Br, I; Me2phen = 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline) with terminal alkynes is reported. Bromo and iodo derivatives lead to the formation of Pt(ii) alkenyl derivatives of the type [PtX2{κ2-N,C-(Z)-N̲1–N10–C̲C(H)(R)}] (N1–N10 = Me2phen) containing a Pt–N–C–C–N–C six membered metallacycle.
Solution-processed indium oxide electron transporting layers for high-performance and photo-stable perovskite and organic solar cells
Authors: Yoon Seokhyun , Kim Si Joon , Kim Harrison S. , Park Joon-Suh , Han Il Ki , Jung Jae Woong , Park Minwoo
Published: October 2017

Pin-hole free and conductive In2O3 electron transporting layers lead to a power conversion efficiency of 14.63% in a perovskite solar cell and 3.03% in an organic solar cell.
Flexible small-channel thin-film transistors by electrohydrodynamic lithography
Authors: Ding Yajiang , Zhu Chen , Liu Jianpeng , Duan Yongqing , Yi Zhengran , Xiao Jian , Wang Shuai , Huang YongAn , Yin Zhouping
Published: October 2017

A programmable, photolithography-free and cost-effective procedure for the fabrication of high performance OTFT arrays on ultrathin flexible substrates is reported.
One-pot synthesis of Ni nanoparticle/ordered mesoporous carbon composite electrode materials for electrocatalytic reduction of aromatic ketones
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Xia , Liu Yupu , Meng Wang-Jun , Wang Jinxiu , Li Wei , Wang Huan , Zhao Dongyuan , Lu Jia-Xing
Published: October 2017

The selective electrocatalytic activity of Ni nanoparticle/OMC composites.
Intrinsic conductivity optimization of bi-metallic nickel cobalt selenides toward superior-rate Na-ion storage
Authors: Wu Chen , Wei Yuehua , Lian Qingwang , Cui Chao , Wei Weifeng , Chen Libao , Li Chengchao
Published: October 2017

Co0.67 with higher regulated conductivity demonstrated superior rate performance and cycling stability as an anode for NIBs.
Rac1-stimulated macropinocytosis enhances Gβγ activation of PI3Kβ
Authors: Erami Zahra , Khalil Bassem D. , Salloum Gilbert , Yao Yanhua , LoPiccolo Jaclyn , Shymanets Aliaksei , Nürnberg Bernd , Bresnick Anne R. , Backer Jonathan M.
Published: October 2017

Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI 3-kinases) are regulated by a diverse range of upstream activators, including receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), and small GTPases from the Ras, Rho and Rab families. For the Class IA PI 3-kinase PI3Kβ, two mechanisms for GPCR-mediated regulation have been described: direct binding of Gβγ subunits to the C2-helical domain linker of p110β, and Dock180/Elmo1-mediated activation of Rac1, which binds to the Ras-Binding Domain of p110β. We now show that the integration of these dual pathways is unexpectedly complex. In breast cancer cells, expression of constitutively activated Rac1 (CA-Rac1) along with either GPCR stimulation or expression of Gβγ led to an additive PI3Kβ-dependent activation of Akt. Whereas CA-Rac1-mediated activation of Akt was blocked in cells expressing a mutated PI3Kβ that cannot bind Gβγ, Gβγ and GPCR-mediated activation of Akt was preserved when Rac1 binding to PI3Kβ was blocked. Surprisingly, PI3Kβ-dependent CA-Rac1 signaling to Akt was still seen in cells expressing a mutant p110β that cannot bind Rac1. Instead of directly binding to PI3Kβ, CA-Rac1 acts by enhancing Gβγ coupling to PI3Kβ, as CA-Rac1-mediated Akt activation was blocked by inhibitors of Gβγ. Cells expressing CA-Rac1 exhibited a robust induction of macropinocytosis, and inhibitors of macropinocytosis blocked the activation of Akt by CA-Rac1 or lysophosphatidic acid. Our data suggest that Rac1 can potentiate the activation of PI3Kβ by GPCRs through an indirect mechanism, by driving the formation of macropinosomes that serve as signaling platforms for Gβγ coupling to PI3Kβ.
Internet-Based Self-Help for Ménière's Disease: Details and Outcome of a Single-Group Open Trial
Authors: Pyykkő Ilmari , Manchaiah Vinaya , Kentala Erna , Levo Hilla , Juhola Martti
Published: October 2017

Purpose

In this article, we present the details and the pilot outcome of an Internet-based self-help program for Ménière's disease (MD).

Method

The Norton–Kaplan model is applied to construct a strategic, person-focused approach in the enablement process. The program assesses the disorder profile and diagnosis. In the therapeutic component of the program, the participant defines vision and time frame, inspects confounding factors, determines goals, establishes a strategy, and starts to work on the important problems caused by the disorder. The program works interactively, utilizes collaboration with significant others, and enhances positive thinking. Participants took part in an Internet-based self-help program. Data were collected interactively using open-ended and structured questionnaires on various disease-specific and general health aspects. The pilot outcome of 41 patients with MD was evaluated.

Results

The analysis of the pilot data showed statistically significant improvement in their general health-related quality of life (p< .001). Also, the outcome of the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (Cann et al., 2010) showed small to moderate change as a result of the intervention.

Conclusions

The Internet-based self-help program can be helpful in the rehabilitation of patients with MD to supplement medical therapy.
First-Person Narratives by Transgender Individuals on Voice and Communication
Authors: Booz Jaime , Dorman Kevin , Walden Patrick
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this manuscript is to introduce the reader to voice and communication training with transgender (trans) individuals in terms of clinical competence, ethics, and scope of practice. Two first-person narratives are provided to detail lived experiences of the role of voice and communication in finding one's identity, as well as challenges to higher education and employment experienced by some trans people.
An Investigation of College Students' Knowledge of Stuttering
Authors: Shollenbarger Amy , Terry Nichole , Akbari Christina
Published: October 2017

Purpose

This study explored college students' basic knowledge of stuttering.

Method

One hundred eighty college students were interviewed to assess their knowledge of stuttering. Participant responses were coded for core stuttering behaviors and etiology of stuttering. Participants also were asked if they knew someone who stuttered and if they were interested in learning more about stuttering.

Results

Repetitions were the most frequently described core behavior of stuttering. The majority of participants reported either that they did not know what caused stuttering, or that it was caused by nervousness. Most participants stated that they would like to know more about stuttering. Knowing a person who stuttered did not translate into knowing more about stuttering.

Conclusion

College students do not exhibit adequate knowledge about the causes or characteristics of stuttering.
Hearing Preservation Cochlear Implants: A Review of Potential Mechanisms of Hearing Loss After Implantation
Authors: Kelly Conor , Reiss Lina A. J.
Published: October 2017

Hearing preservation cochlear implants (CIs) are specifically designed to preserve residual low-frequency acoustic hearing for use together with electrically stimulated high-frequency hearing. This combined electro-acoustic stimulation (EAS) provides a promising treatment option for patients with severe high-frequency hearing loss, but with some residual low-frequency hearing, and has been shown to improve speech perception, especially in background noise, music perception, and sound source localization. Thus, preservation of residual hearing should be a priority in treatment.

Although residual low-frequency hearing is successfully preserved to varying degrees in many patients, some patients experience a loss of residual hearing following implantation. A wide range of potential causes of, or contributors to, loss of residual hearing in EAS CI users have been proposed. In this paper, we review the evidence for several of the proposed causes of hearing loss with EAS CI. We conclude that its etiology is likely a multifactorial, heterogeneous phenomenon. Furthermore, we suggest that studies to further elucidate effects of ischemia on lateral wall function and maintenance of endocochlear potential in the context of EAS CI implantation and use are needed.
Synthesis of 4-Aryl-3-arylthio-3,4-dihydroquinolin-2(1H)-ones via Cyclization of N-Arylcinnamamides with N-Thiosuccinimides
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhang Aiqin , Ren Hexiang
Published: October 2017

cis-4-Aryl-3-arylthio-3,4-dihydroquinolin-2(1H)-ones were synthesized via electrophilic sulfenylation and cyclization of N-arylcinnamamides with N-arylthiosuccinimides in the presence of boron tri­fluo­ride etherate. The cis-products were obtained with high stereoselectivity.
Ambulante Anästhesie: Regionalanästhesie im ambulanten Bereich
Authors: Krier Andreas , Karst Jörg
Published: October 2017

Ausgewählte Regionalanästhesieverfahren sind für den ambulant tätigen Anästhesisten eine attraktive Alternative zu Analgosedierung und Narkose – und dies bei hoher Patientenzufriedenheit und seltenen Komplikationen. Dieser Beitrag widmet sich den organisatorischen und hygienischen Anforderungen, die es dabei zu beachten gilt. Des Weiteren gehen die Autoren auf einzelne Verfahren und ihre Anwendung in unterschiedlichen Körperregionen näher ein.
Ambulante Anästhesie: Grenzen und Möglichkeiten
Authors: Hofer Harald , Vescia Frank
Published: October 2017

Ambulante Operationen werden künftig zunehmend nachgefragt werden – Ursachen sind u. a. die alternde Bevölkerung und die finanzielle Lage der Krankenkassen. Der Beitrag geht ausführlich auf Begleiterkrankungen ein, bei denen die Entscheidung ambulant oder stationär sorgfältig abgewogen werden muss. Darüber hinaus nimmt er die betriebs- und volkswirtschaftlichen Grenzen und Möglichkeiten des ambulanten Operierens unter die Lupe.
Geburtshilfliche Anästhesie: Altbewährtes, Kontroversen und neue Perspektiven – Teil 1
Authors: Kranke Peter , Annecke Thorsten , Bremerich Dorothee , Chappell Daniel , Girard Thierry , Gogarten Wiebke , Hanß Robert , Kaufner Lutz , Neuhaus Sophie , Ninke Tobias , Standl Thomas , Weber Stefan , Jelting Yvonne , Volk Thomas
Published: October 2017

In der „Whatʼs New in Obstetric Anesthesia“ Lecture, die jedem an der anästhesiologischen Kreißsaalversorgung Interessierten in abgedruckter Form sehr ans Herz gelegt werden kann, werden seit 1975 durch die Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology die im Rahmen des Annual Meeting als relevant für die klinische Versorgung erachteten Vorträge zusammengefasst. Nach dem Tode von Gerard W. Ostheimer, Professor of Anesthesiology im Brigham and Womenʼs Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, wurde sie zur Gerard W. Ostheimer „Whatʼs New in Obstetric Anesthesia“ Lecture umbenannt, um dessen Beiträge zur Regionalanästhesie und geburtshilflichen Anästhesie zu würdigen. Jedes Jahr gewährt die von ausgewählten Fachvertretern gehaltene Veranstaltung und ihr Abdruck in namhaften Anästhesie-Journalen Einblick in eine kritische Würdigung rezenter Literatur und die möglichen Konsequenzen für – aber nicht nur – die anästhesiologische Kreißsaalpraxis.

Eine ähnliche Veranstaltung hat in Deutschland seit über 16 Jahren Tradition: Das Geburtshilfliche Anästhesiesymposium des Wissenschaftlichen Arbeitskreises Regionalanästhesie und Geburtshilfliche Anästhesie. Anders als in den von Einzelpersonen gehaltenen Vortragsveranstaltungen werden „Evergreens“ oder „Hot Topics“ der anästhesiologischen Kreißsaalversorgung in regelmäßigem Zyklus oder aus aktuellem Anlass aufgegriffen, präsentiert und vor allem diskutiert. In den Vortragsveranstaltungen offenbart sich oft wesentlich früher als in traditionellen Lehrbuchkapiteln der subtile Wandel in Hinblick auf die diskutierten Themen.

Der 2-teilige Beitrag fasst das Symposium 2016 zusammen, stellt jedoch keine offizielle Meinungsbekundung seitens des Arbeitskreises dar. Teil 1 geht auf mütterliche Todesursachen während Schwangerschaft, Geburt und Stillzeit sowie strukturelle Voraussetzungen im Kreißsaal, Adipositas in der Schwangerschaft und Sepsis bei der Schwangeren und im Wochenbett ein. Teil 2 behandelt etablierte Standards und neue Perspektiven im Rahmen der geburtshilflichen Analgesie und Anästhesie bezüglich Epiduralanalgesie, postpunktionellem Kopfschmerz, Anästhesie und Analgesie während und nach Sectio, hämodynamischem Monitoring und postpartaler Blutung.
Fortbildungen clever unterstützen – Das haben Sie davon!
Authors: Benjamin Alt D.
Published: October 2017

Wer seine Angestellten bei Fortbildungen finanziell unterstützt, erhöht ihre Motivation und stärkt die Mitarbeiterbindung. Wer sogar damit wirbt, hat bessere Chancen bei der Mitarbeitersuche. Am Ende soll eine Win-win-Situation entstehen.
Schmerzaussagen richtig bewerten – Ursachenforschung mit System
Authors: Koller Thomas
Published: October 2017

Die Schmerzaussagen des Patienten in der Anamnese richtig zu priorisieren und interpretieren setzt Wissen, Erfahrung und stetige Neugier voraus. Dabei ist es wichtig, bestimmte Kriterien zu beachten, um schnell und zielsicher zur richtigen Ursache zu gelangen.
Adduktorenzerrung – Lädierte Hinzieher
Authors: Hausser Philipp
Published: October 2017

Die Diagnose Adduktorenzerrung fällt oft vorschnell, weiß Physiotherapeut Philipp Hausser. Dafür müssen jedoch bei der Untersuchung klar definierte Kriterien erfüllt sein. Dabei und auch in der Therapie helfen dem Therapeuten strukturierte Vorgehensweisen und dem Patienten spezielle Übungen.