bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FUNCTIONAL RESULTS IN PATIENTS SUBMITTED TO SURGERY FOR DEGENERATIVE LUMBAR DISEASE
Authors: Rocha Ricardo Dantas , Pratali Raphael de Rezende , Motta Rodrigo de Luca , Barsotti Carlos Eduardo Gonçales , Santos Francisco Prado Eugenio dos , Oliveira Carlos Eduardo Algaves Soares de
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate functional results in patients submitted to lumbar arthrodesis for the treatment of degenerative disc disease. Methods: This is a retrospective study that considered patients submitted to surgery due to degenerative disc disease, with a minimum of 12 months of postoperative follow-up. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaires, including total value and domains, were considered indicators of functional outcome and quality of life. Results: Sixty-one patients (mean age 60.4 years) met the inclusion criteria and had ODI and SRS-22 data recorded. Nineteen were male and 42 female. The mean of postoperative follow-up was 29 months (12-67 months). There was no statistically significant difference in any score between sexes. The mean values obtained by the questionnaires were ODI 43.4%; SRS-22 Total 2.7; Function/Activity 2.6; Pain 2.8; Appearance 2.6; Mental Health 3.0; Satisfaction 3.4. Conclusion: The values of the surgical outcome indicators were consistent with important functional disability, although the satisfaction indicator with the treatment showed satisfied patients.
LEARNING CURVE IN SINGLE-LEVEL MINIMALLY INVASIVE TLIF: EXPERIENCE OF A NEUROSURGEON
Authors: Romano-Feinholz Samuel , Soriano-Solís Sergio , Zúñiga-Rivera Julio César , Gutiérrez-Partida Carlos Francisco , Rodríguez-García Manuel , Soriano-Solís Héctor Antonio , Soriano-Sánchez José Antonio
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the learning curve that shows the progress of a single neurosurgeon when performing single-level MI-TLIF. Methods: We included 99 consecutive patients who underwent single-level MI-TLIF by the same neurosurgeon (JASS). Patient’s demographic characteristics were analyzed. In addition, surgical time, intraoperative blood loss and hospital stay were evaluated. The learning curves were calculated with a piecewise regression model. Results: The mean age was 54.6 years. The learning curves showed an inverse relationship between the surgical experience and the variable analyzed, reaching an inflection point for surgical time in case 43 and for blood loss in case 48. The mean surgical time was 203.3 minutes (interquartile range [IQR] 150-240 minutes), intraoperative bleeding was 97.4ml (IQR 40-100ml) and hospital stay of four days (IQR 3-5 days). Conclusions: MI-TLIF is a very frequent surgical procedure due to its effectiveness and safety, which has shown similar results to open procedure. According to this study, the required learning curve is slightly higher than for open procedures, and is reached after about 45 cases.
Web-Based Intervention for Women With Type 1 Diabetes in Pregnancy and Early Motherhood: Critical Analysis of Adherence to Technological Elements and Study Design (Preprint)
Authors: Berg Marie , Linden Karolina , Adolfsson Annsofie , Sparud Lundin Carina , Ranerup Agneta
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Numerous Web-based interventions have been implemented to promote health and health-related behaviors in persons with chronic conditions. Using randomized controlled trials to evaluate such interventions creates a range of challenges, which in turn can influence the study outcome. Applying a critical perspective when evaluating Web-based health interventions is important.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to critically analyze and discuss the challenges of conducting a Web-based health intervention as a randomized controlled trial.

METHOD

The MODIAB-Web study was critically examined using an exploratory case study methodology and the framework for analysis offered through the Persuasive Systems Design model. Focus was on technology, study design, and Web-based support usage, with special focus on the forum for peer support. Descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis were used.

RESULTS

The persuasive content and technological elements in the design of the randomized controlled trial included all four categories of the Persuasive Systems Design model, but not all design principles were implemented. The study duration was extended to a period of four and a half years. Of 81 active participants in the intervention group, a maximum of 36 women were simultaneously active. User adherence varied greatly with a median of 91 individual log-ins. The forum for peer support was used by 63 participants. Although only about one-third of the participants interacted in the forum, there was a fairly rich exchange of experiences and advice between them. Thus, adherence in terms of social interactions was negatively affected by limited active participation due to prolonged recruitment process and randomization effects. Lessons learned from this critical analysis are that technology and study design matter and might mutually influence each other. In Web-based interventions, the use of design theories enables utilization of the full potential of technology and promotes adherence. The randomization element in a randomized controlled trial design can become a barrier to achieving a critical mass of user interactions in Web-based interventions, especially when social support is included. For extended study periods, the technology used may need to be adapted in line with newly available technical options to avoid the risk of becoming outdated in the user realm, which in turn might jeopardize study validity in terms of randomized controlled trial designs.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of lessons learned in this randomized controlled trial, we give recommendations to consider when designing and evaluating Web-based health interventions.
INFLUENCE OF SOIL AND MINERAL FOOD PROCESSING ON THE DYNAMICS OF BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY AND NPK IN COLD YARNS
Authors: Mikitin S V , Shuravilin A V , Borodychev V V , Novikov A E
Published: December 2017

The use of scientifically based doses of fertilizers in the cultivation of crops does not lead to the removal of nutrients from the natural reserves of the organic and mineral soil by microflora. At the same time, the methods and terms for the introduction of mineral fertilizers must be linked with the technology of soil preparation and moisture supply. Nitrogen fertilizers, because of their rapid volati-lization, are recommended to be applied for pre-sowing cultivation with sealing in the surface layer, and phosphorous fertilizers, as inactive - along with the main soil treatment. In this connection, in studies of the significant influence of the methods of basic soil cultivation with and without application of nitrogen, its dynamics along layers are not revealed. Deep soil-free tillage allows significantly more accumulation and longer storage of moisture in the soil layers; In comparison with the classical plowing and dumping plowing and planing in a meter layer of soil, the additional moisture reserves before sowing the crop are respectively 300 and 230 m3 / ha, in the tubing phase - barley - 256 and 189 m3/ha, in the phase of milk ripeness - 270 And 128 m3/ha. Deficiency of moisture reduces the biological activity of the soil, in this regard, moisture-saving methods of basic soil cultivation are especially important in conditions of rain-fed farming, not only on the yield of agricultural crops, but also on the processes of humus formation. The total accumulation of amino acids in the half-meter layer in the variant with deep soil-free tillage before sowing barley was 424 g amine / G of cloth, in the phase of tubing - ear - 400 g amine / G canvas, in the phase of milk ripeness - 210 g amine / G of canvas. The values obtained are higher in comparison with the control data and the variant with planar tillage at 7 and 18%, 48 and 32%, 10 and 36% respectively. Positive dynamics in terms of productive moisture and accumulation of amino acids in the variant with deep soil-free soil treatment, application of calculated phosphorus doses for main processing and nitrogen for pre-sowing cultivation, had an effect on a significant increase in grain relative to control at 0.4 t/ha, Processing - at 0.35 t/ha.
Monitoring Land Cover Changes in the Disaster-Prone Area: A Case Study of Cangkringan Sub-District, the Flanks of Mount Merapi, Indonesia
Authors: Sadono Ronggo , Hartono Hartono , Machfoedz Mochammad Maksum , Setiaji Setiaji
Published: December 2017

Volcanic eruption is one of the natural factors that affect land cover changes. This study aimed to monitor land cover changes using a remote sensing approach in Cangkringan Sub-district, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, one of the areas most vulnerable to Mount Merapi eruption. Three satellite images, dating from 2001, 2006 and 2011, were used as main data for land cover classification based on a supervised classification approach. The land cover detection analysis was undertaken by overlaying the classification results from those images. The results show that the dominant land cover class is annual crops, covering 40% of the study area, while the remaining 60% consists of forest cover types, dryland farming, paddy fields, settlements, and bare land. The forests were distributed in the north, and the annual crops in the middle of the study area, while the villages and the rice fields were generally located in the south. In the 2001–2011 period, forests were the most increased land cover type, while annual crops decreased the most, as a result of the eruption of Mount Merapi in 2010. Such data and information are important for the local government or related institutions to formulate Detailed Spatial Plans (RDTR) in the Disaster-Prone Areas (KRB).
Efficacy and Safety of Ixekizumab in Patients with Active Psoriatic Arthritis: 52-week Results from a Phase III Study (SPIRIT-P1)
Authors: van der Heijde Désirée , Gladman Dafna D. , Kishimoto Mitsumasa , Okada Masato , Rathmann Suchitrita S. , Moriarty Susan R. , Shuler Catherine L. , Carlier Hilde , Benichou Olivier , Mease Philip J.
Published: December 2017

Objective.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ixekizumab (IXE), an interleukin 17A antagonist, in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) after 52 weeks in a phase III study.

Methods.

Patients were initially randomly assigned to IXE 80 mg every 2 weeks (IXEQ2W) or every 4 weeks (IXEQ4W) after a 160-mg starting dose, placebo (PBO), or adalimumab (ADA) 40 mg Q2W. At Week 24 (Week 16 for inadequate responders), ADA (8-week washout before starting IXE) and PBO patients were rerandomized to IXEQ2W or IXEQ4W. Six treatment groups were evaluated in the extension period (weeks 24–52): IXEQ2W/IXEQ2W, IXEQ4W/IXEQ4W, ADA/IXEQ2W, ADA/IXEQ4W, PBO/IXEQ2W, and PBO/IXEQ4W. The extension period population (EPP) included patients who received ≥ 1 dose of study medication during the extension period.

Results.

There were 381/417 (91.4%) patients who entered the extension period. In the IXEQ4W/IXEQ4W and IXEQ2W/IXEQ2W groups (EPP), respectively, American College of Rheumatology (ACR)20 (69.1% and 68.8%), ACR50 (54.6% and 53.1%), and ACR70 (39.2% and 39.6%) response rates were sustained at Week 52. Patients rerandomized to IXE also demonstrated efficacy measured by ACR response rates at Week 52. A similar pattern was observed for Psoriasis Area and Severity Index outcomes. Radiographic progression in all 6 groups was minimal. The most frequently reported treatment-emergent adverse events (≥ 4%) were nasopharyngitis, injection site reaction, injection site erythema, upper respiratory tract infection, and back pain. No deaths were reported, and serious adverse event frequency was 0–4% with IXE.

Conclusion.

During the extension period, IXEQ4W or IXEQ2W treatment demonstrated sustained efficacy in key PsA domains with a safety profile consistent with other studies investigating IXE. Clinical trial number: NCT01695239; EudraCT 2011-002326-49.
Validation of predictors for lymph node status in penile cancer: Results from a population-based cohort
Authors: Qu X. Melody , Siemens D. Robert , Louie Alexander V. , Yip Darwin , Mahmud Aamer
Published: December 2017

Introduction: The ability to predict lymph node (LN) status is essential in the management of men with localized squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the penis. There has been limited external validation of available risk stratification tools, particularly in routine clinical care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the predictive variables of LN metastases within a large population-based cohort of patients.Methods: In this population-based cohort study, surgical pathology reports were linked to the population-based Ontario Cancer Registry to identify all patients who were diagnosed with penile cancer in Ontario, Canada. Multivariable analyses were performed to evaluate predictive variables for LN involvement. Three contemporary risk stratification schemes used to predict LN status were analyzed by logistic regression.Results: The study included 380 localized penile SCC cases treated between 2000 and 2010. Sixty-three (17%) had pathologically confirmed LN metastases. Among these, 35 (56%) were diagnosed within three months of the initial penile SCC diagnosis and these patients had a worse five-year disease-specific survival (43%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 26–64) compared to patients who were diagnosed at a delayed LN dissection. On multivariable analysis, age (odds ratio [OR] 0.68; 95% CI 0.52–0.88), pathological stage (≥pT1b; OR 3.32; 95% CI 1.38–8.01), and tumour grade (Grade 2 OR 2.98; 95% CI 1.26–7.62; Grade 3 OR 3.97; 95% CI 1.32–11.9) were associated with an increased risk of LN metastases. Candidate risk stratification schemes demonstrated moderate to good property, with C-statistics ranging from 0.662–0.747.Conclusions: Using a population-based cohort of penile cancer patients with a relatively low proportion of patients with pathologically confirmed LN involvement, we confirm and externally validate the importance of age, stage, and grade of the primary tumour in predicting nodal status.
"I høj grad et subjektivt værk."
Authors: Øveraas Kirsten Marie
Published: December 2017

Anmeldelse af Den Danske Begrebsordbog. Redaktører: Sanni Nimb (hovedredaktør), Henrik Lorentzen, Liisa Theilgaard, Thomas Troelsgård. Det Danske Sprog- og Litteraturselskab, 2015. Udgivet i kommission på Syddansk Universitetsforlag (1397 sider).
Characterisation of an aptamer against the Runt domain of AML1 (RUNX1) by NMR and mutational analyses
Authors: Takada Kenta , Amano Ryo , Nomura Yusuke , Tanaka Yoichiro , Sugiyama Shigeru , Nagata Takashi , Katahira Masato , Nakamura Yoshikazu , Kozu Tomoko , Sakamoto Taiichi
Published: December 2017

Since the invention of systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment, many short oligonucleotides (or aptamers) have been reported that can bind to a wide range of target molecules with high affinity and specificity. Previously, we reported an RNA aptamer that shows high affinity to the Runt domain (RD) of the AML1 protein, a transcription factor with roles in haematopoiesis and immune function. From kinetic and thermodynamic studies, it was suggested that the aptamer recognises a large surface area of the RD, using numerous weak interactions. In this study, we identified the secondary structure by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and performed a mutational study to reveal the residue critical for binding to the RD. It was suggested that the large contact area was formed by a DNA‐mimicking motif and a multibranched loop, which confers the high affinity and specificity of binding.
A Self‐Healable, Highly Stretchable, and Solution Processable Conductive Polymer Composite for Ultrasensitive Strain and Pressure Sensing
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhang Ying , Liu Qingchang , Cheng Wen , Wang Xinran , Pan Lijia , Xu Baoxing , Xu Hangxun
Published: December 2017

Mimicking human skin's functions to develop electronic skins has inspired tremendous efforts in design and synthesis of novel soft materials with simplified fabrication methods. However, it still remains a great challenge to develop electronically conductive materials that are both stretchable and self‐healable. Here it is demonstrated that a ternary polymer composite comprised of polyaniline, polyacrylic acid, and phytic acid can exhibit high stretchability (≈500%) and excellent self‐healing properties. The polymer composite with optimized composition shows an electrical conductivity of 0.12 S cm−1. On rupture, both electrical and mechanical properties can be restored with ≈99% efficiency in a 24 h period, which is enabled by the dynamic hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. It is further shown that this composite is both strain and pressure sensitive, and therefore can be used for fabricating strain and pressure sensors to detect a variety of mechanical deformations with ultrahigh sensitivity. The sensitivity and sensing range are the highest among all of the reported self‐healable piezoresistive pressure sensors and even surpass most flexible mechanical sensors. Notably, this composite is prepared via a solution casting process, which potentially allows for large‐area, low‐cost fabrication electronic skins.
Mechanisms of Caspr2 antibodies in autoimmune encephalitis and neuromyotonia
Authors: Patterson Kristina R. , Dalmau Josep , Lancaster Eric
Published: December 2017

Objective

To determine the pathogenic mechanisms of autoantibodies to the cell adhesion molecule Caspr2 in acquired neuromyotonia and autoimmune encephalitis.

Methods

Caspr2‐positive samples were confirmed using a cell‐based assay, and their IgG subtypes were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and cell‐based assay. A solid phase binding assay quantified the binding of Caspr2 to contactin‐2 in the presence of Caspr2 autoantibodies. Living cultures of primary rat hippocampal neurons were incubated with Caspr2‐positive or control sera, and the distribution of Caspr2‐positive immunofluorescent puncta and total surface Caspr2 was quantified. HEK cells transfected to express Caspr2 were incubated with Caspr2‐positive or control samples, and cell‐surface biotinylation and Western blot were used to assess total, internalized, and surface levels of Caspr2.

Results

We confirmed 6 samples with strong Caspr2 reactivity. IgG4 Caspr2 antibodies were present in all 6 cases. Caspr2 interacted with another cell adhesion molecule, contactin‐2, with nanomolar affinity in the solid phase assay, and Caspr2 autoantibodies inhibited this interaction. Caspr2 autoantibodies did not affect the surface expression of Caspr2 in rat primary hippocampal neurons or transfected HEK cells.

Interpretation

Caspr2 autoantibodies inhibit the interaction of Caspr2 with contactin‐2 but do not cause internalization of Caspr2. Functional blocking of cell adhesion molecule interactions represents a potential mechanism with therapeutic implications for IgG4 autoantibodies to cell adhesion molecules in neurological diseases. Ann Neurol 2018;83:40‐51
Tough Gel Electrolyte Using Double Polymer Network Design for the Safe, Stable Cycling of Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Wu Haiping , Cao Yue , Su Haiping , Wang Chao
Published: December 2017

The growth of lithium dendrites and low coulombic efficiency restrict the development of Li metal anodes. Polymer electrolytes are expected to be promising candidates to solve the issue, but ways to obtain a polymer electrolyte that integrates high ionic conductivity and high mechanical toughness is still challenging. By introducing a double polymer network into the electrolyte design to reshape it, a tough polymer electrolyte was developed with high conductivity, and stable operation of lithium metal anodes was further realized. The double network (DNW) gel electrolyte has high modulus of 44.3 MPa and high fracture energy of 69.5 kJ m−2. The conductivity of DNW gel is 0.81 mS cm−1 at 30 °C. By using this gel electrolyte design, the lithium metal electrode could be cycled more than 400 times with a coulombic efficiency (CE) as high as 96.3 % with carbonate‐based electrolytes.
Synthesis of Phenols: Organophotoredox/Nickel Dual Catalytic Hydroxylation of Aryl Halides with Water
Authors: Yang Liu , Huang Zhiyan , Li Gang , Zhang Wei , Cao Rui , Wang Chao , Xiao Jianliang , Xue Dong
Published: December 2017

A highly effective hydroxylation reaction of aryl halides with water under synergistic organophotoredox and nickel catalysis is reported. The OH group of the resulting phenols originates from water, following deprotonation facilitated by an intramolecular base group on the ligand. Significantly, aryl bromides as well as less reactive aryl chlorides served as effective substrates to afford phenols with a wide range of functional groups. Without the need for a strong inorganic base or an expensive noble‐metal catalyst, this process can be applied to the efficient preparation of diverse phenols and enables the hydroxylation of multifunctional pharmaceutically relevant aryl halides.
Somatic Resources: Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Approach to Stabilising Arousal in Child and Family Treatment
Authors: Lohrasbe Rochelle Sharpe , Ogden Pat
Published: December 2017

Trauma first and foremost disrupts the normal functioning of the nervous system, leading to extremes of autonomic arousal that often does not return to baseline once traumatic events are over. Dysregulation of arousal is a common feature in relational trauma. Such dysregulation is present for the individuals and for the family unit. When carers are dysregulated their capacities to cope with the challenges of caregiving are compromised. In turn, children are left to manage not only their own dysregulation but also the fluctuations occurring in their carers. Somatic resources and the embodiment of non‐somatic relational resources are efficient for physiological arousal and emotional regulation. Sensorimotor psychotherapy offers a means to better understand arousal and dysregulation as well as employ effective strategies to stabilise children and carers in challenged families. This article will provide a sensorimotor psychotherapy framework that can help in identifying priorities for therapeutic stabilisation efforts for children with abuse and/or neglect histories and their family members. The authors will discuss the value of employing somatic resources in preference to other categories of resources, and suggest practical ways in which to convert any non‐somatic resource into a more embodied experience.
Electrolyte‐resistant epoxy for bonding batteries based on sandwich structures
Authors: Seo Jiho , Singh Abhendra K. , Zhang Yancheng , Ma Jun , Bakis Charles E. , Rahn Christopher D. , Hickner Michael A.
Published: December 2017

Adhesives that are stable in Li‐ion battery electrolytes are required to realize the potential of new battery designs that integrate structural elements with energy storage. Here, several polymers, commercial adhesives, and sealants were investigated to bond and seal a Li‐ion battery sandwich panel. Gravimetric electrolyte uptake measurements were compared with Hansen solubility parameters to predict long‐term durability of the materials exposed to battery electrolyte. The durability of adhesively bonded joints with an epoxy adhesive, which was selected as the lowest electrolyte uptake material, was examined using single lap shear strength tests and three‐point bending tests in a fabricated sandwich panel. The strength of the epoxy decreased after exposure to battery electrolyte due to solvent uptake in the bond. The addition of lithium hexafluorophosphate to the ethylene carbonate/dimethyl carbonate mixture severely decreased the strength with respect to the pure solvents. In device testing, the sandwich panel did not show any visible damage or leakage when loaded to above 1000 N during three‐point bending tests. Using sol extraction measurements and differential scanning calorimetry analyses, the optimized curing temperature for the epoxy adhesive ranged from 80 to 100 °C. At these temperatures, the cured adhesive had a highly crosslinked structure with low sol extraction. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46059.
Tunable‐focus negative poly(vinyl chloride) gel microlens driven by unilateral electrodes
Authors: Cheng Xiang , Yang Weimin , Cheng Lisheng , Yan Hua , Jiao Zhiwei
Published: December 2017

Tunable‐focus microlenses are urgently required for compact optical products to replace digital zoom and obtain high‐quality images. An electrically controllable tunable‐focus negative microlens is proposed, which is based on an electroactive poly(vinyl chloride) gel plasticized by ecofriendly dioctyl terephthalate. The anode and cathode of the microlens are simply assembled on the same side of the electrorheological elastomer, which greatly saves space and allows the thickness of the proposed microlens to be less than 1 mm. By applying voltages ranging from 0 to 1000 V, the stable focus of the microlens is interestingly able to vary as wide as from –∞ to −21.3 mm correspondingly. The proposed microlens is simple and thin but is flexible and stable and has a wide range of the focus variation, showing promising applications in minielectric and optical devices. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46136.
Extrinsic and intrinsic blood supply to the optic chiasm
Authors: Salaud Céline , Ploteau Stéphane , Blery Pauline , Pilet Paul , Armstrong Olivier , Hamel Antoine
Published: December 2017

Although there have been many studies of the arterial cerebral blood supply, only seven have described the optic chiasm (OC) blood supply and their results are contradictory. The aim of this study was to analyze the extrinsic and intrinsic OC blood supply on cadaveric specimens using dissections and microcomputer tomography (Micro‐CT). Thirteen human specimens were dissected and the internal or common carotid arteries were injected with red latex, China Ink with gelatin or barium sulfate. Three Micro‐CTs were obtained to reveal the intrinsic blood supply to the OC. The superior hypophyseal arteries (SupHypA) (13/13) and posterior communicating artery (PCoA) (12/13) supplied the pial network on the inferior side of the OC. The first segment of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) (10/10), SupHypA (7/10), the anterior communicating artery (ACoA) (9/10), and PComA (1/10) supplied the pial network of its superior side. The intrinsic OC blood supply was divided into three networks (two lateral and one central). Capillaries entering the OC originated principally from the inferior pial network. The lateral network capillaries had the same orientation as the visual lateral pathways, but the central network was not correlated with the nasal fibers crossing into the OC. There was no anastomosis in the pial or intrinsic networks. Only SupHypA, PCoA, ACoA, and ACA were involved in the OC blood supply. Because there was no extrinsic or intrinsic anastomosis, all arteries should be preserved. Tumor compression of the inferior intrinsic arterial network could contribute to visual defects. Clin. Anat. 31:432–440, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Biorelevant Media Components on Dissolution Behaviour of 1,2,4‐Thiadiazole Derivative Designed for Alzheimerʼs Disease Prevention
Authors: Promzeleva Maria , Chislov Mikhail , Volkova Tatyana , Proshin Alexey , Kumeev Roman , Terekhova Irina
Published: December 2017

In this study, dissolution behaviour of 1,2,4‐thiadiazole derivative (1‐[5‐(3‐chloro‐phenylamino)‐1,2,4‐thiadiazol‐3‐yl]‐propan‐2‐ol) displaying an anti‐Alzheimer activity was examined in biorelevant media such as Simulated Gastric Fluid (SGF, pH 1.2), Fasted State Simulated Gastric Fluid (FaSSGF, pH 1.6) and Fasted State Simulated Intestinal Fluid (FaSSIF, pH 6.5). It was found that solubility and dissolution rate of 1,2,4‐thiadiazole derivative under consideration are not strongly dependent on pH, whereas these parameters are significantly affected by the buffer composition. Dissolution was found to be more effective in buffers composed of the surfactant micelles. It was demonstrated that considerable increase in solubility and dissolution rate in SGF is achieved through the interaction of 1,2,4‐thiadiazole derivative with the micelles of sodium dodecyl sulfate. On the contrary, CMC of sodium taurochalate was shifted in the presence of 1,2,4‐thiadiazole derivative, therefore, dissolution process is not so efficient in FaSSIF. Interactions occurring between 1,2,4‐thiadiazole derivative and the components of biorelevant media were investigated in detail by means of UV/VIS spectroscopy, 1H‐NMR and phase solubility methods.
Semioperations and Convolutions in Voltammetry
Authors: Mahon Peter J. , Oldham Keith B.
Published: December 2017

It is often useful to transform a measured signal into a form that is more easily interpreted. Thus, in voltammetry, where the measurement is of a current responding to a perturbation of the electrode potential, the complications arising from diffusional transport may be readily alleviated through the use of semioperators or convolutions. The use of semiintegration enables the voltammetric current to be transformed into an alternative signal that, in the case of a planar electrode, is linearly related to the concentrations of reactant and product at the electrode surface. Numerous advantages of semiintegration have been widely demonstrated. However, semiintegration is but a special case of the more general procedure of convolution. Convolving the voltammetric current with specifically designed functions of time allows the benefits of semiintegration to be applied to other electrode geometries and other experimental circumstances. The prime motive for semiintegration or convolution is to gain access to information about concentrations at the electrode surface. This information opens the door to the measurement of such quantities as bulk concentrations, rate constants, standard potentials, and diffusivities, as well as suggesting mechanisms and enabling the calibration of electrodes.
Elimination‐Fusion Self‐Assembly of a Nanometer‐Scale 72‐Nucleus Silver Cluster Caging a Pair of [EuW10O36]9− Polyoxometalates
Authors: Zhang Shan‐Shan , Su Hai‐Feng , Wang Zhi , Wang Xing‐Po , Chen Wen‐Xian , Zhao Quan‐Qin , Tung Chen‐Ho , Sun Di , Zheng Lan‐Sun
Published: December 2017

The largest known polyoxometalate (POM)‐templated silver‐alkynyl cluster, [(EuW10O36)2@Ag72(tBuC≡C)48Cl2⋅4 BF4] (SD/Ag20), was isolated under solvothermal conditions and structurally characterized. It was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) as a {EuW10}2‐in‐{Ag72} clusters‐in‐cluster rod‐like compound. The high‐resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR‐ESI‐MS) shows that such a double anion‐templated cluster is assembled from a crucial single anion‐templated Ag42 intermediate in the solution. The crystallization of Ag42 species (SD/Ag21), followed by SCXRD, gave an important clue about the assembly route of SD/Ag20 in solution: the Ag42 cluster eliminates six silver atoms laterally, then fuses together at the vacant face to form the final Ag72 cluster (elimination‐fusion mechanism). The characteristic emission of [EuW10O36]9− is well maintained in SD/Ag20. This work not only provides a new method for the synthesis of larger silver clusters as well as the functional integration of the silver cluster and POMs, but also gives deep insights about the high‐nuclear silver cluster assembly mechanism.
Biradicaloid and Zwitterion Reactivity of Dicarbondiphosphide Stabilized with N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Li Zhongshu , Hou Yuanfeng , Li Yaqi , Hinz Alexander , Chen Xiaodan
Published: December 2017

Organic biradicals are usually very short lived species under standard laboratory conditions, which makes their experimental studies difficult. In contrast, heteroatom‐substituted analogues of these biradicals show enhanced stability due to π‐electron delocalization, which is why main group biradicals (or biradicaloids) of archetypical heterocyclobutanediyls have been thoroughly investigated. Herein, N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐stabilized dicarbondiphosphide compounds of the type (L2)C2P2 (L=NHC) were utilized to activate both single and multiple bonds in small molecules with a feasible concerted mechanism. This reactivity is explicable by considerable biradicaloid character of the dicarbondiphosphide compounds, which is further corroborated by theoretical studies. Furthermore, the dicarbondiphosphide compounds also exhibited Lewis base properties towards Lewis acids, such as borane and metal halides.
Effect of phenolic compounds on bioconversion of glucose to ethanol by yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae PE‐2
Authors: Lyra Colombi Bruna , Silva Zanoni Patrícia Raquel , Benathar Ballod Tavares Lorena
Published: December 2017

The bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomasses to ethanol consists of three main steps: pre‐treatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, and fermentation by microorganisms. Most pre‐treatments induce the formation of substances with a potential inhibitory effect on the microbial metabolism, which may hinder the process. The objective of this study was to investigate the behaviour of Saccharomyces cerevisiae PE‐2 yeast in the presence of four phenolic compounds (vanillin, syringaldehyde, syringic acid, and acetosyringone) resulting from the alkaline pre‐treatment of eucalyptus with green liquor. Eucalyptus is a fast‐growing tree, widely exploited by the paper and pulp industry in Brazil. It was observed that yeast growth and glucose assimilation were affected to an extent directly proportional to the initial amount of vanillin in the medium. Syringaldehyde in a concentration of 1.0 g/L had an adverse effect on the fermentation parameters related to ethanol production, which exhibited a decrease of approximately 50 %. When syringic acid and acetosyringone were used, although the cell growth and glucose consumption profiles were similar to those of the control, they inhibited the conversion at concentrations of 0.1 and 1.0 g/L.
Food Waste Composting in a High Rate Continuous Feed Drum Reactor: Startup and Carbon Balance Analysis
Authors: Zarkadas Ioannis , Angeli Evangelia , Sainis Ioannis , Voudrias Evangelos , Pilidis Georgios
Published: December 2017

The objective of this work is to investigate the composting of food waste in a continuous feed pilot scale reactor. Food waste, collected daily from university restaurants and canteens, are fed to the composting unit together with wood pellets. During the continuous process the maximum temperature reaches thermophilic levels. The carbon dioxide emission factor is 216 g C kg−1total solids (TS) per day, while the average oxygen uptake rate is 1245 ± 957 g O2 kg−1TS per day both based on the daily waste input. The average daily cumulative carbon closure is calculated as −12.5% (±35.2%) with ideal closure of 0%. Inoculation of the final product shows no formation of colonies for total coliforms,Escherichia coli,Enterococcus(E. faecalis,E. faecium,E. durans, andE. hirae) andPseudomonas(P. aeruginosa). The average respiration activity (AT4) was 12.1 ± 2.14 mg O2 g−1TS, indicating that the end product is not quite stable and some maturation time may be required, prior to its application as an organic fertilizer.
Analgesic efficacy of preoperative dexketoprofen trometamol: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Esparza‐Villalpando Vicente , Pozos‐Guillén Amaury , Masuoka‐Ito David , Gaitán‐Fonseca César , Chavarría‐Bolaños Daniel
Published: December 2017

Post‐Market Research

Clinical evidence supports the use of dexketoprofen trometamol (DEX) to manage acute postoperative pain. However, controversies surround the impact of the use of this drug in preoperative analgesic protocols. The aim of the present meta‐analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness of the preoperative administration of DEX under postoperative pain conditions. Electronic and manual searches were conducted through diverse electronic databases. A systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of the preoperative administration of DEX was performed including Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) published between 2002 and 2017. Suitable individual studies were evaluated through a quality system, and the data were extracted and analyzed. Fourteen RTCs were included (12 parallel trials and 2 cross‐over trials), published in the English and Turkish languages. Follow‐up periods ranged from 4, 6, 8, 24, and 48 hr. All trials measured the outcome result as Acute Pain Level (APL) (VAS, NRS, VRS), time to requiring a second dose of DEX or analgesic emergency and consumption of opioids via patient‐controlled analgesia. When the comparators were other drugs ‐ paracetamol, Lornoxicam or placebo during the preoperative time, preoperative administration of DEX was superior. When the comparison comprised preoperative and postoperative DEX, both alternatives exhibited comparable analgesic effects. The analgesic efficacy of the preoperative administration of DEX when compared to placebo, lornoxicam, and paracetamol on postoperative pain was evident. Preoperative administration of DEX compared to its immediate postoperative administration showed a similar analgesic effect.
A User Interface Design Method based on Quantitative Evaluation of Consistency in Device Operation
Authors: OKAMOTO TEPPEI
Published: December 2017

Digitized electrical products have many functions, and these user interface specifications have become large scale. Therefore, in short development period, it is a problem that time for usability evaluation is insufficient. In this paper, we propose a user interface design method that can evaluate consistency in device operation, by simple processes. Features of the proposed method are to use similarity of functions or interactions, as software metrics. The similarities are calculated from the design information, and are analyzed by using an agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC). As a result of the AHC, functions or interactions are classified into several groups, and their consistencies are able to be judged. This is an automatic evaluation method that does not require manpower. Thus, unlike conventional usability evaluation, efficiency of the design work can be expected. As a result of evaluating user interfaces for digital camera by using the method, this technique was able to identify the points to be corrected in the interactions.
Quantitative Decision Method of Appropriate Apple Harvest Time using Color Information
Authors: ISHII MASAKI , KUSADA IKUMI , YAMANE HARUKI
Published: December 2017

In fruit farming, the appropriate time of harvesting high‐quality and high‐value fruits is determined by comparing the surface color of tree's fruit and a fruit color chart defined for each fruit cultivar. This comparative examination comprises visual inspection by the farmer and a sensory inspection based on sensibility information. Thus, the decision varies across individuals because the decision criterion is not defined quantitatively and is not unified. This study aims to develop a system to determine the appropriate time for harvesting fruit from the tree. In this paper, we used apples to develop a quantitative method for appropriate harvest time. We focused on the HSV and L*a*b* color spaces used by image processing. Consequently, it was found that using the value of H and a* in deciding on the proper harvest time was useful. We also conducted a comparative analysis of apple growth and color and color differences to investigate our quantitative method for determining appropriate harvest time. These results of the procedure show that quantitatively determining the proper harvesting time of fruit is possible.
Plasmonic Color Filters Integrated on a Photodiode Array
Authors: EMA DAISUKE , KANAMORI YOSHIAKI , SAI HITOSHI , HANE KAZUHIRO
Published: December 2017

Arrayed plasmonic color filters integrated on Si photodiodes with 21 elements were experimentally demonstrated. The plasmonic color filters consisted of nanodot subwavelength periodic structures. Optical characteristics of the color filters were measured and compared with calculated results. In order to obtain spectrum of an incident light from the signal of photodiodes, spectrum reconstruction using Tikhonov regularization was adapted. In the spectral sensitivity of each photodiode, the peak wavelength was adjusted between 400 and 850 nm in wavelength by the period of nanodot structure on each photodiode. The measured peak wavelengths roughly agreed with calculated values with errors less than 30 nm in wavelength. Spectral characteristics of a monochromatic light were measured by fabricated device and spectrum reconstruction was carried out. The position of the center wavelength could be successfully detected.
MEMS Resonator‐Based Insulated Voltage Sensor Withstanding Higher Voltage
Authors: WADA YUUKI , NOBUNAGA NAOKI , KUMAGAI SHINYA , ISHIHARA HIROKI , ISHII MAKOTO , SASAKI MINORU
Published: December 2017

The Si resonator is applied for measuring the voltage in a highly isolated manner. The working principle is based on the resonant frequency shift caused by the electrical field from the electrode connected to the high‐voltage source (supposing the battery). Here, the resonator is electrically floated, and its potential is decided by the relative position against the electrodes which are connected to the high voltage and the driving voltage. The induced voltage on the resonator is analyzed against the driving frequency. The resonance is found by the paired peaks in the amplitude curve. The setup for the electrical measurement can make the sensor system compact. A new sensor design for avoiding the electrical field concentration realizes the measurement over 400 V without the breakdown. This will match with the high‐voltage dc power supply system.
Pediatric tolerogenic DCs expressing CD4 and immunoglobulin‐like transcript receptor (ILT)‐4 secrete IL‐10 in response to Fc and adenosine
Authors: Franco Alessandra , Kumar Jeetendra , Lin Gene , Behnamfar Negar , Hsieh Li‐En , Shimizu Chisato , Tremoulet Adriana H. , Burns Jane C. , Linden Joel
Published: December 2017

We characterized a novel population of tolerogenic myeloid dendritic cells (tmDCs) defined as CD11c+CD11b+CD14+CD4+ and immunoglobulin‐like transcript receptor (ILT)‐4+ that are significantly more abundant in the circulation of infants and young children than in adults. TmDCs secrete the immunosuppressive lymphokine interleukin (IL)‐10 when stimulated with the heavy constant region of immunoglobulins (Fc) and express high levels of the adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR), which, when activated by adenosine, inhibits the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines from most immune cells. Here we show that stimulation of the A2AR on tmDCs by regadenoson or N‐ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA) rapidly increases cyclic AMP accumulation and enhances IL‐10 production under Fc stimulatory conditions. In co‐culture experiments, tmDCs inhibit the differentiation of naïve T cells to a pro‐inflammatory phenotype. In conclusion, although DCs are classically viewed as antigen presenting cells that activate T cells, we show an independent role of tmDCs in pediatric immune regulation that may be important for suppressing T cell responses to neoantigens in infants and young children.
Crystal Structure and Magnetic Properties of an Oxamato‐Bridged Heterobimetallic Tetranuclear [NiIICuII]2 Complex of the Rack Type
Authors: Reis Natalia V. , Barros Wdeson P. , Oliveira Willian X. C. , Pereira Cynthia L. M. , Rocha Willian R. , Pinheiro Carlos B. , Lloret Francesc , Julve Miguel , Stumpf Humberto O.
Published: December 2017

This work discusses a new heterobimetallic nickel(II)–copper(II) complex of the formula [Ni(tpa)Cu(opba)]2·6H2O (1) {H4opba = N,N′‐1,2‐phenylenebis(oxamic acid) and tpa = tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine}. The molecular structure of 1 consists of neutral tetranuclear species with a 4R rack‐type architecture featuring two NiIICuII dinuclear units connected through two out‐of‐plane oxo(carboxylate‐oxamate) atoms from the opba ligands. The crystal packing of 1 exhibits a supramolecular 1D arrangement of tetranuclear entities connected by hydrogen bonds and π–π stacking interactions. The dc magnetic properties of 1 were interpreted according to its dimer‐of‐dimer structure; the spin Hamiltonian being defined as {H = –J[SNi1·SCu1 + SNi1ⁱ·SCu1ⁱ – jeff(SCu1·SCu1ⁱ)]}. The analysis of the magnetic data shows the occurrence of a strong intradimer antiferromagnetic coupling between the NiII and CuII ions [J = –115.2(4) cm–1] and a weak interdimer antiferromagnetic coupling between the CuII ions [jeff = –1.12(7) cm–1]. DFT‐type calculations were performed to visualize the exchange pathway through the oxamate bridge and substantiate the value of J.
AgI Metallacoronates and HgII Metallacryptates Derived from a Catechol‐Based Aroylbis(N,N‐diethylthiourea)
Authors: Pham Chien Thang , Nguyen Hung Huy , Abram Ulrich
Published: December 2017

Reactions of mixtures between Ag(NO3) and alkaline earth nitrates with the bifunctional ligand 2,2′‐{1,2‐phenylenebis[oxyacetyl(N,N‐diethylthiourea)]}, H2Lcat, give {2}‐metallacoronates of the composition {M ⊂ [Ag2(Lcat)2]} (M = Ca2+, Sr2+, or Ba2+). The trinuclear assemblies show further aggregation in the solid state, where they establish dimeric or polymeric entities stabilized by weak Ag···N(amide) interactions. Discrete {2}‐metallacryptate species {M ⊂ [Hg2(Lcat)3]} (M = Sr2+ or Ba2+) result from similar reactions between H2Lcat, Hg(NO3)2, and strontium nitrate or barium nitrate. The complexes contain HgII ions in an uncommon distorted trigonal‐bipyramidal environment with a S3O2 coordination sphere. The central alkaline earth ions are mainly bonded by the six carbonyl oxygen atoms of the three organic ligands.
Mother–infant co‐regulation in dyadic and triadic contexts at 4 and 6 months of age
Authors: Aureli Tiziana , Presaghi Fabio , Garito Maria Concetta
Published: December 2017

This study examined interpersonal co‐regulation in 80 mother–infant dyads when interacting face‐to‐face and with an object, at the infant ages of 4 and 6 months. We found that co‐regulation patterns differed between conditions and with development. Under the dyadic condition, the dyads were mostly unilateral, with only the mother attending to the infant's focus, while in the triadic context, they were mostly symmetrical, with both mother and infant mutually engaged. While confirming previous studies showing that interpersonal co‐ordination is a relatively rare event in face‐to‐face exchanges, this result shows that the contrary is instead true when objects are available. Also, unilateral co‐regulation significantly increased in the triadic context from 4 to 6 months, together with an increase in the active role of the infant during symmetrical exchanges. The development of manipulative skills that occurred during this age period might have promoted these co‐regulation changes, through improvement of the infant activities with objects, both independently and with the mother. Finally, involvement in triadic interactions appears to relate to temperamental aspects, being favoured by the infant's disposition to be soothed by the caregiver. Overall, our results support the view of early social development as a context‐based and multidimensional process.

Highlights

Investigation of how mothers and infants co‐regulate in face‐to‐face interactions and with toys in the first 6 months of life.

Eighty mother–infant dyads are observed longitudinally in dyadic and triadic interactions at 4 and 6 months of age.

Social‐mediated object exchanges favour symmetrical co‐regulation in early mother–infant interactions, whereas unilateral co‐regulation prevails in face‐to‐face contexts.