bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The microRNA-10a/ID3/RUNX2 axis modulates the development of Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament
Authors: Xu Chen , Zhang Hao , Gu Wei , Wu Huiqiao , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhou Wenchao , Sun Baifeng , Shen Xiaolong , Zhang Zicheng , Wang Yue , Liu Yang , Yuan Wen
Published: June 2018

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) presents as pathological heterotopic ossification of the spinal ligaments. However, its underlying molecular mechanism is still unclear. Our previous findings suggested that altered microRNA regulatory network are critical for the development of OPLL. Here, we set out to unveiling the detailed mechanism of those altered OPLL-specific microRNAs. We screened a set of differentially expressed OPLL-specific microRNAs from the previous sequencing data and showed that microRNA-10a actively modulates the ossification of posterior ligament cells in vitro. Using a tissue-engineered scaffold grown from 4-week-old BALB/c homozygous nude mice, we found that altered microRNA-10a expression in posterior ligament cells indeed affected the heterotopic bone formation in vivo. Furthermore, computational analysis showed that the negative ossification regulator ID3 is a functional target gene of microRNA-10a, and its expression was also significantly altered during microRNA-10a modulation both in vitro and in vivo. Also, we have demonstrated that the ossification promoting function of microRNA-10a requires ID3, as ID3 actively inhibits RUNX2. Thus, we identified a critical role for highly altered OPLL-specific microRNA-10a in regulating the development of OPLL by modulating the ID3/RUNX2 axis.
Accurate and precise real-time RT-PCR assays for the identification of astrovirus associated encephalitis in cattle
Authors: Lüthi Ramona , Boujon Céline L. , Kauer Ronja , Koch Michel C. , Bouzalas Ilias G. , Seuberlich Torsten
Published: June 2018

A novel bovine astrovirus genotype species (BoAstV-CH13/NeuroS1) was recently identified in brain tissues of cattle as a plausible cause of encephalitis. The purpose of the present study was to develop and validate real time RT-PCR assays for the detection of BoAstV-CH13/NeuroS1 in brain tissues of cattle. Three different primer-probe combinations were designed based on BoAstV-CH13/NeuroS1 full-genome sequences of 11 different strains identified in cattle, and established in three distinct one-step real time RT-PCR protocols. These protocols were compared regarding their diagnostic performance using brain tissues of cattle with and without astrovirus associated encephalitis. The limit of detection (LOD) of all three assays was between 1.34 × 101 and 1.34 × 102 RNA copies, leading to an analytical sensitivity two orders of magnitude superior compared to a conventional pan-astrovirus RT-PCR protocol (LOD 1.31 × 104 RNA copies). Amplification efficiency was in the range of 97.3% to 107.5% with linearity (R2) > 0.99. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the assays was determined as 100%, and all three revealed good intra- and inter-test repeatability. In conclusion, the newly developed RT-qPCRs are sensitive, specific, and reliable test formats that will facilitate BoAstV-CH13/NeuroS1 detection in routine diagnostics as well as in research settings.
Micro-scale, mid-scale, and macro-scale in global seismicity identified by empirical mode decomposition and their multifractal characteristics
Authors: Sarlis Nicholas V. , Skordas Efthimios S. , Mintzelas Apostolis , Papadopoulou Konstantina A.
Published: June 2018

The magnitude time-series of the global seismicity is analyzed by the empirical mode decomposition giving rise to 14 intrinsic mode functions (IMF) and a trend. Using Hurst analysis one can identify three different sums of these IMFs and the trend which exhibit distinct multifractal behaviour and correspond to micro-, mid- and macro-scales. Their multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis reveals that the micro-scale time-series exhibits anticorrelated behaviour in contrast to the mid-scale one which is long-range correlated. Concerning the mid-scale one, in the range of 30 to 300 consecutive events the maximum entropy method power spectra indicates that it exhibits an 1/fα behaviour with α close to 1/3 which is compatible with the long-range correlations identified by detrended fluctuation analysis during periods of stationary seismicity. The results have been also verified to hold regionally for the earthquakes in Japan and shed light on the significance of the mid-scale of 30 to 300 events in the natural time analysis of global (and regional) seismicity. It is shown that when using the mid-scale time-series only, we can obtain results similar to those obtained by the natural time analysis of global seismicity when focusing on the prediction of earthquakes with M ≥ 8.4.
Inhibitory effect of SLIT2 on granulosa cell proliferation mediated by the CDC42-PAKs-ERK1/2 MAPK pathway in the prehierarchical follicles of the chicken ovary
Authors: Xu Rifu , Qin Ning , Xu Xiaoxing , Sun Xue , Chen Xiaoxia , Zhao Jinghua
Published: June 2018

The SLIT2 ligand and ROBO receptors of the SLIT/ROBO pathway are expressed in hen ovarian follicles and have been shown to play critical roles in ovary development, cell proliferation and apoptosis in mammals. However, the exact roles of SLIT2 and the molecular mechanisms of chicken follicle development remain poorly understood. Here, we discovered that high levels of SLIT2 suppress FSHR, GDF9, STAR and CYP11A1 mRNA and protein expression in granulosa cells (GCs) and cell proliferation (p < 0.01). However, these inhibitory effects can be abolished by the siRNA-mediated knockdown of the ROBO1 and ROBO2 receptors. Furthermore, the activity of CDC42, which is a key Rho GTPase in the SLIT/ROBO pathway, is regulated by the ligand SLIT2 because the intrinsic GTPase activation activity of CDC42 is activated or repressed by regulating SRGAP1 expression (p < 0.01). The effects of the SLIT2 overexpression on GC proliferation and phosphorylation of the B-RAF, RAF1 and ERK1/2 kinases were completely abrogated by knocking down endogenous PAK1 and partially abrogated by the knockdown of PAK2 and PAK3 in the GCs. Collectively, our findings indicate that SLIT2 suppresses GC proliferation, differentiation and follicle selection mainly by a mechanism involving ROBO1 and ROBO2 and that this suppression is mediated by the CDC42-PAKs-ERK1/2 MAPK signaling cascade in the prehierarchical follicles of the chicken ovary.
Molecular chaperoning helps safeguarding mitochondrial integrity and motor functions in the Sahara silver ant Cataglyphis bombycina
Authors: Willot Quentin , Mardulyn Patrick , Defrance Matthieu , Gueydan Cyril , Aron Serge
Published: June 2018

The Sahara silver ant Cataglyphis bombycina is one of the world’s most thermotolerant animals. Workers forage for heat-stricken arthropods during the hottest part of the day, when temperatures exceed 50 °C. However, the physiological adaptations needed to cope with such harsh conditions remain poorly studied in this desert species. Using transcriptomics, we screened for the most heat-responsive transcripts of C. bombycina with aim to better characterize the molecular mechanisms involved with macromolecular stability and cell survival to heat-stress. We identified 67 strongly and consistently expressed transcripts, and we show evidences of both evolutionary selection and specific heat-induction of mitochondrial-related molecular chaperones that have not been documented in Formicidae so far. This indicates clear focus of the silver ant’s heat-shock response in preserving mitochondrial integrity and energy production. The joined induction of small heat-shock proteins likely depicts the higher requirement of this insect for proper motor function in response to extreme burst of heat-stresses. We discuss how those physiological adaptations may effectively help workers resist and survive the scorching heat and burning ground of the midday Sahara Desert.
Stem cell tracking using effective self-assembled peptide-modified superparamagnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Gu Lei , Li Xue , Jiang Jing , Guo Gang , Wu Haoxing , Wu Min , Zhu Hongyan
Published: June 2018

Peptide modified superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have been developed as excellent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents for stem cell labeling and tracking due to their biocompatibility.
Miniaturized, high-throughput and green determination of the saponification value of edible oils using thermal infrared enthalpimetry
Authors: Dalla Nora Flavia Michelon , Oliveira Alessandra Stangherlin , Lucas Bruna Nichelle , Ferreira Daniele de Freitas , Duarte Fábio Andrei , Mello Renius Oliveira , Cichoski Alexandre José , Barin Juliano Smanioto
Published: June 2018

Sample preparation and determination steps were performed in microplates using infrared thermography for the residual KOH determination (heat of neutralization).
A novel amplified double-quenching aptasensor for cocaine detection based on split aptamer and silica nanoparticles
Authors: Abnous Khalil , Danesh Noor Mohammad , Ramezani Mohammad , Taghdisi Seyed Mohammad , Emrani Ahmad Sarreshtehdar
Published: June 2018

Herein, a sensitive and rapid fluorescent aptasensor was developed for the detection of cocaine as an illicit drug, based on an amplification strategy involving the use of silica nanoparticles coated with streptavidin (SNPs), double quenching of FAM fluorophore and cocaine split aptamer.
Ultra-trace determination of sodium fluoroacetate (1080) as monofluoroacetate in milk and milk powder by GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS
Authors: Wong Yiu-Tung , Law Wing-Ki , Lai Shirley Sau-Ling , Wong Siu-Pan , Lau Kong-Chi , Ho Clare
Published: June 2018

A sensitive analytical method based on derivatization with 3-nitroaniline is established for the trace determination of sodium fluoroacetate (1080) in milk and milk powder.
Discovery and synthesis of the first selective BAG domain modulator of BAG3 as an attractive candidate for the development of a new class of chemotherapeutics
Authors: Terracciano Stefania , Lauro Gianluigi , Russo Alessandra , Vaccaro Maria Carmela , Vassallo Antonio , De Marco Margot , Ranieri Bianca , Rosati Alessandra , Turco Maria Caterina , Riccio Raffaele , Bifulco Giuseppe , Bruno Ines
Published: June 2018

The first selective BAG3BD modulator has been discovered.
High selectivity of CO2 hydrogenation to CO by controlling the valence state of nickel using perovskite
Authors: Zhao Baohuai , Yan Binhang , Jiang Zhao , Yao Siyu , Liu Zongyuan , Wu Qiyuan , Ran Rui , Senanayake Sanjaya D. , Weng Duan , Chen Jingguang G.
Published: June 2018

The product selectivity of CO2 hydrogenation can be significantly tuned by controlling the valence state of Ni using perovskites.
Revisiting copper reduction in zeolites: the impact of autoreduction and sample synthesis procedure
Authors: Sushkevich Vitaly L. , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: June 2018

At least two distinct processes occur during heating of the copper-exchanged mordenite in oxygen-free environment: reaction with carbonaceous impurities and autoreduction.
Anion–π interactions of highly π-acidic dipyridinium-naphthalene diimide salts
Authors: Tam Teck Lip Dexter , Ng Chee Koon , Lu Xuefeng , Lim Zheng Long , Wu Jishan
Published: June 2018

A highly π-acidic dipyridinium-naphthalene diimide acceptor shows anion–π interactions with halides and PF6−.
Di-copper(ii) DNA G-quadruplexes as EPR distance rulers
Authors: Engelhard David M. , Meyer Andreas , Berndhäuser Andreas , Schiemann Olav , Clever Guido H.
Published: June 2018

Paramagnetic Cu(ii) complexes, immobilized via four-point-attachment to both ends of G-quadruplexes, serve as EPR-based distance rulers for studying DNA structure.
Improved MOF nanoparticle recovery and purification using crosslinked PVDF membranes
Authors: Van Goethem Cédric , Mertens Matthias , Cirujano Francisco G. , Seo Jin W. , De Vos Dirk , Vankelecom Ivo F. J.
Published: June 2018

Crosslinked PVDF-membranes are demonstrated to offer a viable alternative for centrifugation in the preparation of MOF-particles, thus realising new opportunities at lab-scale and continuous production at large-scale.
The interplay of non-covalent interactions determining the antiparallel conformation of (isocyanide)gold(i) dimers
Authors: Echeverría Jorge
Published: June 2018

Ligand⋯ligand contacts, including a novel n → π* interaction involving an isocyanide group as the acceptor, determine the persistent antiparallel conformation of dimers of (isocyanide)Au(i) complexes in their crystal structures.
Electromechanical failure of MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Huang Peng , Guo Dan , Xie Guoxin , Li Jian
Published: June 2018

This manuscript clearly illuminates the electromechanical failure mechanism of MoS2 nanosheets with the conductive AFM nanoindentation method.
Understanding the non-covalent interaction mediated modulations on the electronic structure of quasi-zero-dimensional graphene nanoflakes
Authors: Sarmah Amrit , Hobza Pavel
Published: June 2018

Non-covalent interaction mediated controlled perturbations to the electronic properties of nanostructures as an alternative pathway for the non-destructive functionalization of graphene nanostructures.
Bound electronic states of the smallest fullerene C20− anion
Authors: Yang Yi-Fan , Klaiman Shachar , Gromov Evgeniy V. , Cederbaum Lorenz S.
Published: June 2018

We report on high-level coupled-cluster calculations for the anion states of the smallest fullerene C20.
Comparison of quenching mechanisms in Gd3Al5−xGaxO12:Ce3+ (x = 3 and 5) garnet phosphors by photocurrent excitation spectroscopy
Authors: Lesniewski Tadeusz , Mahlik Sebastian , Asami Kazuki , Ueda Jumpei , Grinberg Marek , Tanabe Setsuhisa
Published: June 2018

In this work we investigate in detail the kinetics of luminescence quenching process in Gd3(Al,Ga)5O12:Ce3+ garnets, using non-standard experimental techniques.
Structural and homotop optimization of neutral Al–Si nanoclusters
Authors: Silveira Ana D. P. , Gomes Alexandre C. R. , Galvão Breno R. L.
Published: June 2018

The geometry and stability of aluminum–silicon alloys up to 13 atoms are investigated using electronic structure methods.
Synergy between nanomaterials and volatile organic compounds for non-invasive medical evaluation
Authors: Broza Yoav Y. , Vishinkin Rotem , Barash Orna , Nakhleh Morad K. , Haick Hossam
Published: June 2018

This review provides an insight into nanomaterial-based sensors for disease diagnosticsviathe detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Tuning the affinity of catechols and salicylic acids towards Al(iii): characterization of Al–chelator interactions
Authors: Dalla Torre Gabriele , Mujika Jon I. , Formoso Elena , Matito Eduard , Ramos Maria J. , Lopez Xabier
Published: June 2018

Aluminum is a non-essential element in the human body with unclear harmful effects; therefore, the design and tuning of new and efficient Al(iii) chelating agents is a subject of paramount importance nowadays.
The Flexible Unit Structure Engine (FUSE) for probe structure-based composition prediction
Authors: Collins C. , Darling G. R. , Rosseinsky M. J.
Published: June 2018

We present a computational method to generate hypothetical probe structures for screening composition space in the search for new compounds.
Science behind the cardio-metabolic benefits of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: biochemical effectsvs. clinical outcomes
Authors: Thota Rohith N. , Ferguson Jessica J. A. , Abbott Kylie A. , Dias Cintia B. , Garg Manohar L.
Published: June 2018

Lower incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the Greenland Inuit, Northern Canada and Japan has been attributed to their consumption of seafood rich in long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCn-3PUFA).
Fully solution-processable Cu2O–BiVO4photoelectrochemical cells for bias-free solar water splitting
Authors: Kim Hyunwoo , Bae Sanghyun , Jeon Dasom , Ryu Jungki
Published: June 2018

An efficient and stable bias-free photoelectrochemical cell was readily fabricated using only simple solution processes.
Structure-based virtual screening and ADME/T-based prediction analysis for the discovery of novel antifungal CYP51 inhibitors
Authors: Sun Bin , Zhang Hong , Liu Min , Hou Zhuang , Liu Xinyong
Published: June 2018

With the increasing incidence of pathogenic fungi and drug-resistant fungi in clinic, it has become very important to develop the novel rate-limiting enzyme 14α-demethylase (CYP51) as an antifungal inhibitor.
Copper-induced immunomodulation in mussel (Perna canaliculus) haemocytes
Authors: Nguyen Thao V. , Alfaro Andrea C. , Merien Fabrice , Lulijwa Ronald , Young Tim
Published: June 2018

Copper induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in mussel haemocytesviathe transsulfuration pathway, glutathione metabolism and taurine metabolism.
Transformation of the surface compositions of titanium during alkali and heat treatment at different vacuum degrees
Authors: Li Ning-bo , Xiao Gui-yong , Tsai I-Hsien , Zhao Jun-han , Chen Xin , Xu Wen-hua , Lu Yu-peng
Published: June 2018

The AH method at different vacuum degrees had a significant influence on the surface composition, structure, wettability, bioactivity and other properties of titanium.
A simple anti-solvent method for the controlled deposition of metal and alloy nanoparticles
Authors: Ajayan Anju , Madhavan Vineeth , Chandran Sumitha , Raveendran Poovathinthodiyil
Published: June 2018

Plasmonics of metal and alloy nanoparticles finds immense applications in materials science, medicine and advanced physics.
N-Arylation of ferrocenyl 2,4-thiazolidinedione conjugatesviaa copper-catalysed Chan–Lam cross coupling reaction with aryl boronic acids and their optoelectronic properties
Authors: Shinde Dilip Nivrutti , Trivedi Rajiv , Krishna Jonnadula V. S. , Giribabu L. , Sridhar B. , Khursade Parag S. , Prakasham R. S.
Published: June 2018

Copper catalysed Chan–LamN-arylation of ferrocenyl 2,4-thiazolidinedione conjugates is described.
Facile synthesis of Co3O4 disordered circular sheets for selective electrochemical determination of nitrite
Authors: Sudha Velayutham , Mohanty Sanjib Anwesha , Thangamuthu Rangasamy
Published: June 2018

The electrochemical nitrite sensing properties of a cobalt oxide (Co3O4) modified glassy carbon electrode were investigated.
Kinetic monitoring of glutathione-induced silver nanoparticle disintegration
Authors: Kästner Claudia , Saloga Patrick E. J. , Thünemann Andreas F.
Published: June 2018

We report on etching of polyacrylic acid-stabilised silver nanoparticles in the presence of glutathione (GSH). The kinetics of the etching of the initial particles, accompanied by formation of smaller silver particles was interpreted based on in situ, time-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) experiments.
Entry, fate and degradation of DNA nanocages in mammalian cells: a matter of receptors
Authors: Raniolo Sofia , Vindigni Giulia , Unida Valeria , Ottaviani Alessio , Romano Elena , Desideri Alessandro , Biocca Silvia
Published: June 2018

DNA nanocages, internalized by catabolic (LOX-1) or anabolic (αFR) receptors, traffic through diverse endocytic pathways and show different intracellular stability.
A facile approach for preparing densely-packed individual p-NiO/n-Fe2O3 heterojunction nanowires for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Singh Ashutosh K. , Sarkar Debasish
Published: June 2018

Facile synthesis of densely-packed and freestanding individual p-NiO/n-Fe2O3 heterojunction nanowires and their application in photoelectrochemical water splitting.
Graphene and graphene oxide induce ROS production in human HaCaT skin keratinocytes: the role of xanthine oxidase and NADH dehydrogenase
Authors: Pelin Marco , Fusco Laura , Martín Cristina , Sosa Silvio , Frontiñán-Rubio Javier , González-Domínguez Jose Miguel , Durán-Prado Mario , Vázquez Ester , Prato Maurizio , Tubaro Aurelia
Published: June 2018

Graphene based nanomaterials induce a reactive oxygen species-mediated mitochondrial depolarization, caused by the activation of NADH dehydrogenase and xanthine oxidase.
Convenient synthesis of versatile syndiotactic polystyrene materials containing pendant alkenyl groups with a scandium catalyst system
Authors: Yang Ke , Niu Hui , Shi Zhenghai , Tan Rui , Li Tingting , Shen Kaihua , Li Yang
Published: June 2018

The syndioselective copolymerization of styrene with five alkenyl functionalized styrenic monomers, with the use of a scandium catalyst, produced a new family of versatile syndiotactic polystyrene materials with pendant alkenyl groups.
Light- and pH-dually responsive dendrimer-star copolymer containing spiropyran groups: synthesis, self-assembly and controlled drug release
Authors: Yuan Weizhong , Gao Xueyuan , Pei Erli , Li Zhihong
Published: June 2018

Dendrimer-star copolymer containing spiropyran groups could self-assemble into micelles and presented light- and pH-dually responsive properties.
Inhibitory effects of natural organic matter on methyltriclosan photolysis kinetics
Authors: Liu Wei , Jin Lide , Chen Kai , Li Yanyan , Dahlgren Randy A. , Ma Meiping , Wang Xuedong
Published: June 2018

We demonstrate that PLFA and SRFA inhibit the MTCS photolysis by synergistic effects of light-shielding and photo-sensitization.
Transition metal free, late-stage, regiospecific, aromatic fluorination on a preparative scale using a KF/crypt-222 complex
Authors: Jakobsson Jimmy Erik , Riss Patrick Johannes
Published: June 2018

An efficient fluorination methodology of iodanes using a host–guest compound as the fluoride source combining preparative organic chemistry with PET radiochemistry.
Seedless preparation of Au nanorods by hydroquinone assistant and red blood cell membrane camouflage
Authors: Li Jing , Wang Wenjing , Zhang Xue , Yao Hua , Wei Zhenhong , Li Xiuying , Mu Xupeng , Jiang Jinlan , Zhang Hao
Published: June 2018

Natural red blood cell membranes camouflaged Au nanorod composites that exhibited an excellent biocompatibility and photothermal ablation effect.
Visible light-promoted ring-opening functionalization of unstrained cycloalkanolsviainert C–C bond scission
Authors: Wang Dongping , Mao Jincheng , Zhu Chen
Published: June 2018

Reported herein is a novel, useful, visible light-promoted ring-opening functionalization of unstrained cycloalkanols.
Formal Giese addition of C(sp3)–H nucleophiles enabled by visible light mediated Ni catalysis of triplet enone diradicals
Authors: Lee Geun Seok , Hong Soon Hyeok
Published: June 2018

Formal Giese addition of C(sp3)–H substrates is achieved by the unprecedented merger of triplet chemistry and Ni catalysis.
Consequences of a cosolvent on the structure and molecular dynamics of supramolecular polymers in water
Authors: Lafleur René P. M. , Lou Xianwen , Pavan Giovanni M. , Palmans Anja R. A. , Meijer E. W.
Published: June 2018

A cosolvent that is used to guide the self-assembly of amphiphiles in water causes abrupt structural changes, as well as non-linear behavior in the molecular dynamics of the amphiphiles.
Octahedral molybdenum clusters as radiosensitizers for X-ray induced photodynamic therapy
Authors: Kirakci Kaplan , Zelenka Jaroslav , Rumlová Michaela , Martinčík Jiří , Nikl Martin , Ruml Tomáš , Lang Kamil
Published: June 2018

The nanoparticles made of the luminescent octahedral molybdenum cluster compound significantly enhance the antiproliferative effect of X-ray radiation.
Bio-gel derived nickel/carbon nanocomposites with enhanced microwave absorption
Authors: Xie Peitao , Li Hongyu , He Biao , Dang Feng , Lin Jing , Fan Runhua , Hou Chuanxin , Liu Hu , Zhang Jiaoxia , Ma Yong , Guo Zhanhu
Published: June 2018

After optimization using percolation theory, excellent absorbing properties (90% absorption) were achieved for Ni/C nanocomposites with advantages such as thin thickness (1.75 and 1.5 mm) and light weight (25 and 30 wt%).
Clinician vs. Machine: Estimating Vocalizations Rates in Young Children With Developmental Disorders
Authors: Bredin-Oja Shelley L. , Fielding Heather , Fleming Kandace K. , Warren Steven F.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability of an automated language analysis system, the Language Environment Analysis (LENA), compared with a human transcriber to determine the rate of child vocalizations during recording sessions that were significantly shorter than recommended for the automated device.

Method

Participants were 6 nonverbal male children between the ages of 28 and 46 months. Two children had autism diagnoses, 2 had Down syndrome, 1 had a chromosomal deletion, and 1 had developmental delay. Participants were recorded by the LENA digital language processor during 14 play-based interactions with a responsive adult. Rate of child vocalizations during each of the 84 recordings was determined by both a human transcriber and the LENA software.

Results

A statistically significant difference between the 2 methods was observed for 4 of the 6 participants. Effect sizes were moderate to large. Variation in syllable structure did not explain the difference between the 2 methods. Vocalization rates from the 2 methods were highly correlated for 5 of the 6 participants.

Conclusions

Estimates of vocalization rates from nonverbal children produced by the LENA system differed from human transcription during sessions that were substantially shorter than the recommended recording length. These results confirm the recommendation of the LENA Foundation to record sessions of at least 1 hr.
Augen auf beim Steinkauf
Authors: Bauer Franca
Published: June 2018

Edelsteine und Mineralien sind nicht nur schöner Schmuck, auch werden sie für Heilzwecke und ein harmonischeres Raumklima verwendet. Besonders für solche Anwendungen ist eine gute Qualität wichtig. Es gibt zahlreiche Methoden, um Edelsteine zu manipulieren und dadurch ihren Wert zu steigern; auch werden günstigere Materialen optisch aufgewertet und als hochwertige Edelsteine verkauft. Sechs Methoden sind hierbei besonders relevant. Nicht alle den Edelstein verändernden Verfahren müssen laut Gesetz deklariert sein. Daher ist es wichtig, diese manipulierten oder imitierten Steine zu erkennen und zu wissen, wie man sich vor Betrug schützen kann.
Baukastensystem für den Stoffwechsel
Authors: Stahlkopf Monique
Published: June 2018

Die Regena-Therapie betrachtet Krankheitssymptome als Versuch des Körpers, Dysbalancen des Stoffwechsels auszugleichen.
Organen als Vorbild dienen
Authors: Wojtovicz Andrea
Published: June 2018

Die Typenmittel von Weleda stellen gesunde Prozesse im Organismus wieder her, indem sie die drei Funktionsebenen des menschlichen Organismus in Einklang bringen.
Increased OGA Expression and Activity in Leukocytes from Patients with Diabetes: Correlation with Inflammation Markers
Authors: Pagesy Patrick , Tachet Caroline , Mostefa-Kara Ali , Larger Etienne , Issad Tarik
Published: June 2018

O-linked-β-N-Acetylglucosaminylation (O-GlcNAcylation), a reversible post-translational modification involved in diabetic complications, is regulated by only two enzymes, O-linked N-acetylglucosamine transferase (OGT) and β-N-Acetylglucosaminidase (OGA). Increased OGA expression has been described previously in blood cells from patients with diabetes and was interpreted as an adaptative response to hyperglycemia-induced O-GlcNAcylation. OGA expression was thus proposed to have potential utility as a diagnostic marker. The present work was undertaken to determine whether determination of OGA enzymatic activity in blood cells could constitute a more rapidly accessible marker than OGA expression level measurements.

Blood samples were obtained from patients with type 2 diabetes from the Department of Diabetology of the Cochin Hospital and healthy volunteers from the French blood Agency. OGA enzymatic activity and OGA mRNA expression levels were evaluated in leucocytes from patients with type 2 diabetes and from healthy donors.

OGA activity was higher in leucocytes from patients with diabetes compared to control individuals. Surprisingly, OGA activity was not correlated hyperglycaemia markers (blood glucose, fructosamine, HbA1c) but was positively correlated with the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein. OGA mRNA levels were also increased in leucocytes from patients with diabetes and were correlated with mRNA coding for two pro-inflammatory proteins, TNFα and TxNIP.

Therefore, OGA activity in leucocytes might be a more easily accessible biomarker than OGA expression levels. However, changes in OGA activity observed in patients with type 2 diabetes may reflect the inflammatory rather than the glycaemic status of these patients.
Expression of TIGIT and FCRL3 is Altered in T Cells from Patients with Distinct Patterns of Chronic Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Authors: Štefanić Mario , Tokić Stana , Suver-Stević Mirjana , Glavaš-Obrovac Ljubica
Published: June 2018

Background Co-inhibitory receptors (IR), such as TIGIT and FCRL3, provide a checkpoint against highly destructive immune responses. Co-expression of TIGIT and FCRL3, in particular, has been linked to the HELIOS+ subset of regulatory CD4+FOXP3+T-cells. Of these, CD4+FOXP3-exon(E)2+ cells have higher expression of IR and exhibit strongest suppressive properties. Nevertheless, how the expression of TIGIT, FCRL3, HELIOS, and FOXP3E2 is regulated in chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (AT), is not known.

Methods Thirty patients with AT [encompassing spontaneously euthyroid (euAT), hypothyroid-untreated and L-thyroxine-treated cases)] and 10 healthy controls (HC) were recruited. FCRL3, TIGIT, HELIOS and FOXP3E2 mRNA expression levels in peripheral blood (PB) T cells were measured via quantitative real-time PCR and compared to clinicopathological factors.

Results The TIGIT and FCRL3 expression levels from T cells of AT cases were inversely related to the thyroid volume, and were significantly increased in hypothyroid patients (on+off L-thyroxine), but not euAT cases. The FCRL3 expression in PB T cells positively correlated with thyroid-peroxidase autoantibody levels; by contrast, T cells from aged AT patients and combined samples (AT+HC) accumulated more TIGIT mRNA. The patients with higher TIGIT mRNA levels had a greater prevalence of hypothyroidism, showing higher peak thyrotropin levels at diagnosis or at follow-up.

Conclusions Multiple IR, namely FCRL3 and TIGIT, but not the transcription factors HELIOS and FOXP3E2, showed increased mRNA levels in PB T cells from end-stage, long-standing and/or more aggressive AT, in proportion to disease severity. A relation with major clinical subphenotypes was observed, thereby identifying IR as potentially important players in AT.
The Effect of the Oral Administration of Leucine on Endothelial Function, Glucose and Insulin Concentrations in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Argyrakopoulou Georgia , Kontrafouri Paraskevi , Eleftheriadou Ioanna , Kokkinos Alexander , Arapostathi Christina , Kyriaki Despoina , Perrea Despoina , Revenas Constantinos , Katsilambros Nicholas , Tentolouris Nicholas
Published: June 2018

Objective The aim of our study was to investigate the potential differential effect of hyperglycaemia and hyperinsulinaemia induced by glucose infusion alone and in combination with leucine consumption on endothelial function in healthy individuals.

Methods Ten male volunteers were examined in random order twice. In one visit, they consumed 250 ml water (baseline) and 30 min later glucose was infused iv. In the other visit, they consumed 250 ml water with 25 g of leucine and 30 min later the same amount of glucose was infused. Serum glucose and insulin were measured at baseline and every 10 min after glucose infusion for 1 h. Endothelial function was evaluated by measurement of flow mediated vasodilatation (FMD) at baseline, 10 and 60 min after glucose infusion.

Results In both visits, glucose levels increased to the same degree, whereas insulin response was significantly higher after leucine administration. FMD values declined significantly compared to baseline 10 min after glucose infusion in the control visit (6.9±2.7 vs. 3.2±3.5%, respectively, p=0.006), while no significant change was observed when glucose infusion was followed by leucine consumption.

Conclusions Acute hyperglycaemia impairs endothelial function in healthy male individuals. Leucine administration prevents hyperglycaemia-mediated endothelial dysfunction probably due to enhanced insulin secretion.
Sodbrennen
Authors: Fegerl Sepp , Berger Mirko , Menschel Matthias
Published: June 2018

3 Fachleute – 3 Behandlungsmethoden
Kampo-Medizin in der gastrointestinalen Onkologie
Authors: Cameron Silke
Published: June 2018

In Japan werden Rezepturen der traditionellen Phytotherapie (Kampo-Medizin) seit langem im modernen Gesundheitssystem zur komplementären Behandlung in der Onkologie evidenzbasiert eingesetzt. Die Kampo-Medizin bietet ein großes Spektrum für die Behandlung von Tumorpatienten: Um Symptome durch die Tumorerkrankung selbst mildern, Nebenwirkungen von Chemotherapeutika oder Radiotherapien zu verbessern. Auch postoperative Motilitätsstörungen oder die Opiat-induzierte Koprostase können behandelt werden. Insbesondere in der palliativen Medizin, aber auch bei älteren Patienten, bei denen ein Polypharmazie-­Effekt verhindert werden sollte, leistet die Kampo-Medizin wertvolle Dienste.

In diesem Artikel werden wichtige Kampo-Rezepturen für die supportive Tumorbehandlung bei häufigen Indikationen vorgestellt sowie der aktuelle japanische Forschungsstand referiert.
The n-dig-Cyclization (n = 5, 6) of Alkynes Involving Fixation of CO2
Authors: Cheng Jiang , Wang Bingbing , Sun Song
Published: June 2018

Being an abundant, easily available, and renewable one-carbon source, carbon dioxide has received much attention in organic synthesis. However, carbon dioxide is a thermodynamically inert molecule that is hard to incorporate into useful chemicals. Nevertheless, various elegant methods have been developed for the incorporation of carbon dioxide in a number of heterocycles. In this review, we summarize and update the recent advances in n-dig-cyclization of alkynes involving the fixation of CO2, including the 5-dig- and 6-dig-cyclization of alkynes.

1 Introduction

2 The 5-dig-Cyclization of Alkynes

3 The 6-dig-Cyclization of Alkynes

4 Conclusion
Sonoelastographic Features of the Patellar Ligament in Clinically Normal Dogs
Authors: Piccionello Angela , Busoni Valeria , Salvaggio Alberto , Bonazzi Mattia , Bergamino Chiara , Volta Antonella , Serrani Daniele
Published: June 2018

Objective This article describes the sonoelastographic features of the patellar ligament of sound dogs and tests feasibility, reproducibility and repeatability.

Methods Clinically healthy medium-to-large breed dogs were enrolled. Sonoelastographic images of the patellar ligaments were obtained in lateral recumbency with the stifle flexed by an experienced operator and by a senior veterinary student. The elasticity colour map included red (soft), green (intermediate) and blue (hard). Tissue elasticity was measured by calculating the percentage of softness with dedicated software. Categorical, qualitative data analysis was performed using a weighted kappa statistic for repeatability and reproducibility. A categorical qualitative assessment was performed based on a grading scale of 1 to 5 (soft, mostly soft, intermediate, mostly hard and hard).

Results Fourteen clinically normal dogs were considered. A total of 28 patellar ligaments were examined. Overall, 25 of the patellar ligaments were graded as soft or mostly soft and the remaining 3 as intermediate. Repeatability was 86.2%, with a weighted kappa of 0.64 (good), for the well-trained sonographer and 83.3%, with a weighted kappa of 0.53 (moderate), for the senior student. Reproducibility was 86.2%, with a weighed kappa of 0.65 (good).

Clinical Significance Sonoelastography of the canine patellar ligament is a feasible and reproducible technique. Patellar ligaments in clinically normal dogs showed highly elastic biomechanical properties.
Effect of Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy on Cranial Tibial Subluxation in the Feline Cranial Cruciate Deficient Stifle Joint: An Ex Vivo Experimental Study
Authors: Bilmont A. , Retournard M. , Asimus E. , Palierne S. , Autefage A.
Published: June 2018

Objectives This study evaluated the effects of tibial plateau levelling osteotomy on cranial tibial subluxation and tibial rotation angle in a model of feline cranial cruciate ligament deficient stifle joint.

Methods Quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles were simulated with cables, turnbuckles and a spring in an ex vivo limb model. Cranial tibial subluxation and tibial rotation angle were measured radiographically before and after cranial cruciate ligament section, and after tibial plateau levelling osteotomy, at postoperative tibial plateau angles of +5°, 0° and –5°.

Results Cranial tibial subluxation and tibial rotation angle were not significantly altered after tibial plateau levelling osteotomy with a tibial plateau angle of +5°. Additional rotation of the tibial plateau to a tibial plateau angle of 0° and –5° had no significant effect on cranial tibial subluxation and tibial rotation angle, although 2 out of 10 specimens were stabilized by a postoperative tibial plateau angle of –5°. No stabilization of the cranial cruciate ligament deficient stifle was observed in this model of the feline stifle, after tibial plateau levelling osteotomy.

Clinical Significance Given that stabilization of the cranial cruciate ligament deficient stifle was not obtained in this model, simple transposition of the tibial plateau levelling osteotomy technique from the dog to the cat may not be appropriate.
Factor VIII, Protein C and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: The REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke Study (REGARDS)
Authors: Zakai Neil , Judd Suzanne , Kissela Brett , Howard George , Safford Monika , Cushman Mary
Published: June 2018

Background Haemostatic balance represented by low protein C (PC) and elevated factor VIII (FVIII) has been inconsistently associated with stroke and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk.

Objective This article assesses whether an elevated FVIII and a low PC would increase cardiovascular risk more than either individually.

Patients and Methods REGARDS recruited 30,239 black and white U.S. participants aged ≥ 45 years between 2003 and 2007. FVIII and PC were measured in a case–cohort sample of 646 stroke, 654 CHD, and a 1,104-person random sample with follow-up for approximately 4.5 years. Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated using Cox models adjusted for demographic and cardiovascular risk factors.

Results Elevated FVIII (per standard deviation [SD] increase) was associated with increased risk of both stroke (HR, 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08, 1.46) and CHD (HR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.29, 1.79), while there was no association of PC per SD decrease. For PC, there was a trend towards increased cardiovascular disease risk in the lowest values (bottom 5%). For stroke, there was no interaction between FVIII and low PC (p
interaction = 0.55). For CHD, the adjusted HR of FVIII per SD increase was significantly greater with PC in the bottom 5% (HR, 3.59; 95% CI, 1.39, 8.29) than PC in the upper 95% (HR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.23, 1.71; p
interaction = 0.07).

Conclusion Higher FVIII was associated with both CHD and stroke risk and the risk potentiated by low PC for CHD. Findings demonstrate that risks for cardiovascular diseases conferred by adverse levels of haemostasis biomarkers may be augmented by levels of other biomarkers.
Percutaneous Image-Guided Biopsy of the Spleen
Authors: Tam Alda , Sabir Sharjeel
Published: June 2018

Percutaneous spleen biopsy has a small but important role in the diagnostic approach to splenic lesions. Nonetheless, there remain concerns about the safety of the procedure, limiting its use despite evidence that splenic biopsy performed with optimum technique has comparable diagnostic yield and safety as other solid organ biopsies. To assure appropriate use of percutaneous image-guided spleen biopsy, we discuss the rationale, technique, and outcomes of the procedure.
Sonographic Estimated Fetal Weight among Diabetics at ≥ 34 Weeks and Composite Neonatal Morbidity
Authors: Al-Hafez Leen , Pirics Michael , Chauhan Suneet
Published: June 2018

Objectives The objective was to assess the composite neonatal morbidity (CNM) among diabetic women with sonographic estimated fetal weight (SEFW) at 10 to 90th versus >90th percentile for gestational age (GA).

Study Design The inclusion criteria for this retrospective study were singleton pregnancies at 34 to 41 weeks, complicated by diabetes, and that had SEFW within 4 weeks of delivery. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

Results Among the 140 cohorts that met the inclusion criteria, 72% had SEFW at 10th to 90th percentile for GA, and 28% at >90th percentile. Compared with women with diabetes with last SEFW at 10th to 90th percentile, those with estimate > 90th percentile for GA had a significantly higher rate of CNM (13 vs. 28%; OR, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.07–6.59). Among 109 diabetic women who labored, the rate of shoulder dystocia was significantly higher with SEFW at >90th percentile for GA than those at 10th to 90th percentile (25 vs. 2%; p = 0.002); the corresponding rate of CNM was 29 versus 10% (p = 0.02).

Conclusion Among diabetic women with SEFW > 90th percentile for GA, CNM was significantly higher than in women with estimate at 10 to 90th percentile. Despite the increased risk of CNM, these newborns did not have long-term morbid sequela.
A Qualitative Analysis of Challenges and Successes in Retinopathy of Prematurity Screening
Authors: Bain Lisa , Kristensen-Cabrera Alexandria , Lee Henry
Published: June 2018

Objective The objective of this study is to identify characteristics of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) practice that influence successful retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening.

Study Design In this qualitative study, top, improved, and bottom performing NICUs in the California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative were identified based on ROP screening rates and invited to participate. NICU personnel were interviewed using a semistructured questionnaire. Using thematic analysis, key factors that influence ROP screening were identified.

Results Themes found in top performing hospitals include a commitment to quality improvement, a committed ophthalmologist, and a system of double checks. Improved NICUs had a common theme of utilizing telemedicine for exams and identification of eligible neonates on admission. The bottom performing hospital struggled with education and identification of eligible neonates and a lack of a dedicated ophthalmologist.

Conclusion Structure, culture, education, and commitment all contribute to the success of ROP screening in the NICU.
Szintigrafische Untersuchungen der Leber
Authors: Kirsch Carl-Martin
Published: June 2018

Neben den morphologisch/anatomischen Verfahren hat sich die Szintigrafie der Leber mit ihren vielfältigen Funktionen in den vergangenen Jahrzehnten als sehr hilfreich dargestellt. Die Indikationen, die Methodik und Befundung der nuklearmedizinischen Untersuchungsverfahren haben sich kontinuierlich weiterentwickelt und werden immer noch klinisch eingesetzt. Dieser Artikel versucht einen Überblick über die aktuellen Anwendungen zu vermitteln.
Hot-spot reduction and shade loss minimization in crystalline-silicon solar panels
Authors: Niazi Kamran , Khan Hassan Abbas , Amir Faisal
Published: June 2018

The use of solar energy to produce electricity through photovoltaic (PV) systems has significantly increased in the past decade due to (a) reduction in solar panel costs, (b) climate concerns, and (c) advances in power electronics for grid-tied applications. In conventional rooftop PV deployments, solar panels are connected in series with bypass diode(s) across each panel to reduce the effect of shading. Shading results in hot-spots which affect both short-term (power output reduction) and long-term performance (reliability) of a PV system. This paper presents a new technique to reduce hot-spots in shaded cells along with minimizing power dissipation in an overall PV system. The proposed topology is evaluated and compared with various existing topologies with the proposed technique showing superior performance in reducing hot-spots (by 17%) along with lower losses under shading conditions.
Laser driving and data processing concept for mobile trace gas sensing: Design and implementation
Authors: Liu Chang , Tuzson Béla , Scheidegger Philipp , Looser Herbert , Bereiter Bernhard , Graf Manuel , Hundt Morten , Aseev Oleg , Maas Deran , Emmenegger Lukas
Published: June 2018

High precision mobile sensing of multi-species gases is greatly demanded in a wide range of applications. Although quantum cascade laser absorption spectroscopy demonstrates excellent field-deployment capabilities for gas sensing, the implementation of this measurement technique into sensor-like portable instrumentation still remains challenging. In this paper, two crucial elements, the laser driving and data acquisition electronics, are addressed. Therefore, we exploit the benefits of the time-division multiplexed intermittent continuous wave driving concept and the real-time signal pre-processing capabilities of a commercial System-on-Chip (SoC, Red Pitaya). We describe a re-designed current driver that offers a universal solution for operating a wide range of multi-wavelength quantum cascade laser device types and allows stacking for the purpose of multiple laser configurations. Its adaptation to the various driving situations is enabled by numerous field programmable gate array (FPGA) functionalities that were developed on the SoC, such as flexible generation of a large variety of synchronized trigger signals and digital inputs/outputs (DIOs). The same SoC is used to sample the spectroscopic signal at rates up to 125 MS/s with 14-bit resolution. Additional FPGA functionalities were implemented to enable on-board averaging of consecutive spectral scans in real-time, resulting in optimized memory bandwidth and hardware resource utilisation and autonomous system operation. Thus, we demonstrate how a cost-effective, compact, and commercial SoC can successfully be adapted to obtain a fully operational research-grade laser spectrometer. The overall system performance was examined in a spectroscopic setup by analyzing low pressure absorption features of CO2 at 4.3 μm.
Determining the parameters of a random telegraph signal by digital low pass filtering
Authors: Singh Shilpi , Mannila Elsa T. , Golubev Dmitry S. , Peltonen Joonas T. , Pekola Jukka P.
Published: June 2018

We propose a method to determine the switching rates of a random telegraph signal. We apply digital low pass filtering with varying bandwidths to the raw signal, evaluate the cumulants of the resulting distributions, and compare them with the analytical prediction. This technique is useful in the case of a slow detector with response time comparable to the time interval between the switching events. We demonstrate the efficiency of this method by analyzing random telegraph signals generated by individual charge tunneling events in metallic single-electron transistors.
Tin-vacancy in diamonds for luminescent thermometry
Authors: Alkahtani Masfer , Cojocaru Ivan , Liu Xiaohan , Herzig Tobias , Meijer Jan , Küpper Johannes , Lühmann Tobias , Akimov Alexey V. , Hemmer Philip R.
Published: June 2018

Color centers in diamonds have shown promising potential for luminescent thermometry. So far, the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) color center has demonstrated a high sensitivity for optical temperature monitoring in biological systems. However, the NV center requires microwave excitation which can cause unwanted heating, and the NV is also sensitive to non-axial magnetic fields, both of which can result in inaccurate temperature measurements. To overcome this drawback, the silicon-vacancy (SiV) and germanium-vacancy (GeV) color centers in diamonds have recently been explored and have shown good optical temperature sensitivity owing to the temperature dependent wavelength optical zero-phonon line. Here, we report optical temperature measurements using the recently discovered tin-vacancy (SnV) color center in diamond and show sensitivity better than 0.2 K in 10 s integration time. Also, we compare the relative merits of SnV with respect to SiV and GeV for luminescent thermometry. These results illustrate that there are likely to be many future options for nanoscale thermometry using diamonds.