bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relation between Fractal Inhomogeneity and In/Nb-Arrangement in Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3
Authors: Tsukada Shinya , Ohwada Kenji , Ohwa Hidehiro , Mori Shigeo , Kojima Seiji , Yasuda Naohiko , Terauchi Hikaru , Akishige Yukikuni
Published: December 2017

Relaxor ferroelectrics show substantial responses to electric fields. The key difference from normal ferroelectrics is a temperature-dependent inhomogeneous structure and its dynamics. The lead-based complex perovskite Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3is an intriguing system in which the inhomogeneous structure can be controlled by thermal treatment. Herein, we report investigations of the phase transitions in single crystals of Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3via changing the degree of randomness in which In and Nb occupy the B site of the ABO3perovskite structure. We studied the dynamic properties of the structure using inelastic light scattering and the static properties using diffuse X-ray scattering. These properties depend on the degree of randomness with which the B site is occupied. When the distribution of occupied In/Nb sites is regular, the antiferroelectric phase is stabilised by a change in the collective transverse-acoustic wave, which suppresses long-range ferroelectric order and the growth of the inhomogeneous structure. However, when the B site is occupied randomly, a fractal structure grows as the temperature decreases belowT*~475 K, and nanosized ferroelectric domains are produced by the percolation of self-similar and static polar nanoregions.
Molecular cloning and expression analysis of two key genes, HDS and HDR, in the MEP pathway in Pyropia haitanensis
Authors: He Yuan , Yan Zhihong , Du Yu , Ma Yafeng , Shen Songdong
Published: December 2017

The 1-hydroxy-2-methyl-2-(E)-butenyl-4-diphosphate synthase (HDS) gene and the 1-hydroxy-2-methyl-2-(E)-butenyl-4-diphosphate reductase (HDR) gene are two important genes in the 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway. In this study, we reported the isolation and characterization of full-length HDS (MF101802) and HDR (MF159558) from Pyropia haitanensis. Characteristics of 3-D structures of the PhHDS and PhHDR proteins were analysed respectively. The results showed that the full-length cDNA of PhHDS, which is 1801 bp long, contained a 1455 bp open reading frame (ORF) encoding a putative 484 amino acid residue protein with a predicted molecular mass of 51.60 kDa. Meanwhile, the full-length cDNA of PhHDR was 1668 bp and contained a 1434 bp ORF encoding a putative 477 amino acid 2 residue protein with a predicted molecular mass of 51.49 kDa. The expression levels of the two genes were higher in conchocelis than that in leafy thallus. Additionally, the expression levels could be influenced by light, temperature and salinity and induced by methyl jasmonate (MJ) and salicylic acid (SA). This study contributed to our in-depth understanding of the roles of PhHDS and PhHDR in terpenoid biosynthesis in Pyropia haitanensis and the regulation of the two genes by external environments.
Small molecules related to adrenomedullin reduce tumor burden in a mouse model of colitis-associated colon cancer
Authors: Ochoa-Callejero Laura , García-Sanmartín Josune , Martínez-Herrero Sonia , Rubio-Mediavilla Susana , Narro-Íñiguez Judit , Martínez Alfredo
Published: December 2017

To investigate the contribution of adrenomedullin (AM) and its gene-related peptide, proadrenomedullin N-terminal 20 peptide (PAMP), to the progression and potential treatment of colon cancer we studied the effects of four small molecules (SM) related to AM and PAMP on a mouse model of colon cancer. For each SM, four experimental groups of male mice were used: (i) Control group; (ii) SM group; (iii) DSS group (injected with azoxymethane [AOM] and drank dextran sulfate sodium [DSS]); and (iv) DSS + SM group (treated with AOM, DSS, and the SM). None of the mice in groups i and ii developed tumors, whereas all mice in groups iii and iv developed colon neoplasias. No significant differences were found among mice treated with PAMP modulators (87877 and 106221). Mice that received the AM negative modulator, 16311, had worse colitis symptoms than their control counterparts, whereas mice injected with the AM positive modulator, 145425, had a lower number of tumors than their controls. SM 145425 regulated the expression of proliferation marker Lgr5 and had an impact on microbiota, preventing the DSS-elicited increase of the Bacteroides/Prevotella ratio. These results suggest that treatment with AM or with positive modulator SMs may represent a novel strategy for colon cancer.
Inactivation of the dnaK gene in Clostridium difficile 630 Δerm yields a temperature-sensitive phenotype and increases biofilm-forming ability
Authors: Jain Shailesh , Smyth Deborah , O’Hagan Barry M. G. , Heap John T. , McMullan Geoff , Minton Nigel P. , Ternan Nigel G.
Published: December 2017

Clostridium difficile infection is a growing problem in healthcare settings worldwide and results in a considerable socioeconomic impact. New hypervirulent strains and acquisition of antibiotic resistance exacerbates pathogenesis; however, the survival strategy of C. difficile in the challenging gut environment still remains incompletely understood. We previously reported that clinically relevant heat-stress (37–41 °C) resulted in a classical heat-stress response with up-regulation of cellular chaperones. We used ClosTron to construct an insertional mutation in the dnaK gene of C. difficile 630 Δerm. The dnaK mutant exhibited temperature sensitivity, grew more slowly than C. difficile 630 Δerm and was less thermotolerant. Furthermore, the mutant was non-motile, had 4-fold lower expression of the fliC gene and lacked flagella on the cell surface. Mutant cells were some 50% longer than parental strain cells, and at optimal growth temperatures, they exhibited a 4-fold increase in the expression of class I chaperone genes including GroEL and GroES. Increased chaperone expression, in addition to the non-flagellated phenotype of the mutant, may account for the increased biofilm formation observed. Overall, the phenotype resulting from dnaK disruption is more akin to that observed in Escherichia coli dnaK mutants, rather than those in the Gram-positive model organism Bacillus subtilis.
Stress-induced release of the S100A8/A9 alarmin is elevated in coronary artery disease patients with impaired cortisol response
Authors: Jonasson L. , Grauen Larsen H. , Lundberg A. K. , Gullstrand B. , Bengtsson A. A. , Schiopu A.
Published: December 2017

Psychological stress is thought to be an important trigger of cardiovascular events, yet the involved pathways and mediators are largely unknown. Elevated systemic levels of the pro-inflammatory alarmin S100A8/A9 correlate with poor prognosis in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Here, we investigated the links between S100A8/A9 release and parameters of anti-inflammatory glucocorticoid secretion in two different cohorts subjected to a psychological stress test. In the first cohort of 60 CAD patients, psychological stress induced a rapid increase of circulating S100A8/A9. This rapid S100A8/A9 response strongly correlated with elevated evening saliva cortisol levels, suggesting an association with a dysregulated hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. In the second cohort of 27 CAD patients and 28 controls, elevated S100A8/A9 levels were still detectable 24 h after stress in 40% of patients and 36% of controls, with a tendency for higher levels in patients. The sustained S100A8/A9 response was associated with a poor rapid cortisol release after stress in patients, but not in the control group. Our findings reveal for the first time that acute psychological stress induces elevated levels of S100A8/A9. We also provide hypothesis-generating evidence that dysregulated cortisol secretion in CAD patients might be associated with an exaggerated pro-inflammatory S100A8/A9 response.
Comprehensive analysis of the catalytic and structural properties of a mu-class glutathione s-transferase from Fasciola gigantica
Authors: Kalita Jupitara , Shukla Rohit , Shukla Harish , Gadhave Kundlik , Giri Rajanish , Tripathi Timir
Published: December 2017

Glutathione S‒transferases (GSTs) play an important role in the detoxification of xenobiotics. They catalyze the nucleophilic addition of glutathione (GSH) to nonpolar compounds, rendering the products water-soluble. In the present study, we investigated the catalytic and structural properties of a mu-class GST fromFasciola gigantica(FgGST1). The purified recombinant FgGST1 formed a homodimer composed of 25 kDa subunit. Kinetic analysis revealed that FgGST1 displays broad substrate specificity and shows high GSH conjugation activity toward 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene, 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide, and trans-4-phenyl-3-butene-2-one and peroxidase activity towards trans-2-nonenal and hexa-2,4-dienal. The FgGST1 was highly sensitive to inhibition by cibacron blue. The cofactor (GSH) and inhibitor (cibacron blue) were docked, and binding sites were identified. The molecular dynamics studies and principal component analysis indicated the stability of the systems and the collective motions, respectively. Unfolding studies suggest that FgGST1 is a highly cooperative molecule because, during GdnHCl-induced denaturation, a simultaneous unfolding of the protein without stabilization of any partially folded intermediate is observed. The protein is stabilized with a conformational free energy of about 10 ± 0.3 kcal mol−1. Additionally, the presence of conserved Pro-53 and structural motifs such as N-capping box and hydrophobic staple, further aided in the stability and proper folding of FgGST1.
Production of lignin based insoluble polymers (anionic hydrogels) by C. versicolor
Authors: Brzonova Ivana , Kozliak Evguenii I. , Andrianova Anastasia A. , LaVallie Audrey , Kubátová Alena , Ji Yun
Published: December 2017

Unlike previous lignin biodegradation studies, white rot fungi were used to produce functional biopolymers from Kraft lignin. Lignin-based polymers (hydrogel precursors) partially soluble in both aqueous and organic solvents were produced employing a relatively fast (6 days) enzymation of Kraft lignin with basidiomycetes, primarily Coriolus versicolor, pre-grown on kenaf/lignin agar followed by either vacuum evaporation or acid precipitation. After drying followed by a treatment with alkaline water, this intermediate polymer became a pH-sensitive anionic hydrogel insoluble in either aqueous or organic solvents. The yield of this polymer increased from 20 to 72 wt% with the addition of 2% dimethylsulfoxide to distilled water used as a medium. The mechanical stability and buffering capacity of this hydrogel can be adjusted by washing the intermediate polymer/hydrogel precursor prior to drying with solvents of different polarity (water, methanol or ethanol). Any of these polymers featured a significant thermal resilience assessed as a high thermostable “coked” fraction in thermal carbon analysis, apparently resulting from significant covalent cross-linking that occurs during the treatment of their intermediate precursors.
Involvement of TRPM2 and TRPV1 channels on hyperalgesia, apoptosis and oxidative stress in rat fibromyalgia model: Protective role of selenium
Authors: Yüksel Esra , Nazıroğlu Mustafa , Şahin Mehmet , Çiğ Bilal
Published: December 2017

Fibromyalgia (FM) results in pain characterized by low selenium (Se) levels, excessive Ca2+ influx, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and acidic pH. TRPM2 and TRPV1 are activated by ROS and acid; nevertheless, their roles have not been elucidated in FM. Therefore, we investigated the contribution of TRPM2 and TRPV1 to pain, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in a rat model of FM and the therapeutic potential of Se. Thirty-six rats were divided into four groups: control, Se, FM, and FM + Se. The Se treatment reduced the FM-induced increase in TRPM2 and TRPV1 currents, pain intensity, intracellular free Ca2+, ROS, and mitochondrial membrane depolarization in the sciatic (SciN) and dorsal root ganglion (DRGN) neurons. Furthermore, Se treatment attenuated the FM-induced decrease in cell viability in the DRGN and SciN, glutathione peroxidase, and reduced glutathione and α-tocopherol values in the DRGN, SciN, brain, muscle, and plasma; however, lipid peroxidation levels were decreased. Se also attenuated PARP1, caspase 3, and 9 expressions in the SciN, DRGN, and muscle. In conclusion, Se treatment decreased the FM-induced increase in hyperalgesia, ROS, apoptosis, and Ca2+ entry through TRPM2 and TRPV1 in the SciN and DRGN. Our findings may be relevant to the elucidation and treatment of FM.
Blood-Brain Glucose Transfer in Alzheimer’s disease: Effect of GLP-1 Analog Treatment
Authors: Gejl Michael , Brock Birgitte , Egefjord Lærke , Vang Kim , Rungby Jørgen , Gjedde Albert
Published: December 2017

There are fewer than normal glucose transporters at the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). When reduced expression of transporters aggravates the symptoms of AD, the transporters become a potential target of therapy. The incretin hormone GLP-1 prevents the decline of cerebral metabolic rate for glucose (CMRglc) in AD, and GLP-1 may serve to raise transporter numbers. We hypothesized that the GLP-1 analog liraglutide would prevent the decline of CMRglc in AD by raising blood-brain glucose transfer, depending on the duration of disease. We randomized 38 patients with AD to treatment with liraglutide (n = 18) or placebo (n = 20) for 6 months, and determined the blood-brain glucose transfer capacity (Tmax) in the two groups and a healthy age matched control group (n = 6). In both AD groups at baseline, Tmax estimates correlated inversely with the duration of AD, as did the estimates of CMRglc that in turn were positively correlated with cognition. The GLP-1 analog treatment, compared to placebo, highly significantly raised the Tmax estimates of cerebral cortex from 0.72 to 1.1 umol/g/min, equal to Tmax estimates in healthy volunteers. The result is consistent with the claim that GLP-1 analog treatment restores glucose transport at the BBB.
Identification of MYLK3 mutations in familial dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tobita Takashige , Nomura Seitaro , Morita Hiroyuki , Ko Toshiyuki , Fujita Takanori , Toko Haruhiro , Uto Kenta , Hagiwara Nobuhisa , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Komuro Issei
Published: December 2017

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a primary cause of heart failure, life-threatening arrhythmias, and cardiac death. Pathogenic mutations have been identified at the loci of more than 50 genes in approximately 50% of DCM cases, while the etiologies of the remainder have yet to be determined. In this study, we applied whole exome sequencing in combination with segregation analysis to one pedigree with familial DCM, and identified a read-through mutation (c.2459 A > C; p.*820Sext*19) in the myosin light chain kinase 3 gene (MYLK3). We then conducted MYLK3 gene screening of 15 DCM patients (7 familial and 8 sporadic) who were negative for mutation screening of the previously-reported cardiomyopathy-causing genes, and identified another case with a MYLK3 frameshift mutation (c.1879_1885del; p.L627fs*41). In vitro experiments and immunohistochemistry suggested that the MYLK3 mutations identified in this study result in markedly reduced levels of protein expression and myosin light chain 2 phosphorylation. This is the first report that MYLK3 mutations can cause DCM in humans. The clinical phenotypes of DCM patients were consistent with MYLK3 loss-of-function mouse and zebrafish models in which cardiac enlargement and heart failure are observed. Our findings highlight an essential role for cardiac myosin light chain kinase in the human heart.
Biodegradable Bisvinyl Sulfonemethyl-crosslinked Gelatin Conduit Promotes Regeneration after Peripheral Nerve Injury in Adult Rats
Authors: Ko Chien-Hsin , Shie Ming-You , Lin Jia-Horng , Chen Yi-Wen , Yao Chun-Hsu , Chen Yueh-Sheng
Published: December 2017

In our previous study, we found that gelatin-based materials exhibit good conductivity and are non-cytotoxic. In this study, gelatin was cross-linked with bisvinyl sulfonemethyl (BVSM) to fabricate a biodegradable conduit for peripheral nerve repair. First, BVSM on the prepared conduit was characterized to determine its mechanical properties and contact angle. The maximum tensile strength and water contact angle of the gelatin-BVSM conduits were 23 ± 4.8 MPa and 74.7 ± 9°, which provided sufficient mechanical strength to resist muscular contraction; additionally, the surface was hydrophilic. Cytotoxicity and apoptosis assays using Schwann cells demonstrated that the gelatin-BVSM conduits are non-cytotoxic. Next, we examined the neuronal electrophysiology, animal behavior, neuronal connectivity, macrophage infiltration, calcitonin gene-related peptide localization and expression, as well as the expression levels of nerve regeneration-related proteins. The number of fluorogold-labelled cells and histological analysis of the gelatin-BVSM nerve conduits was similar to that observed with the clinical use of silicone rubber conduits after 8 weeks of repair. Therefore, our results demonstrate that gelatin-BVSM conduits are promising substrates for application as bioengineered grafts for nerve tissue regeneration.
A generic standard additions based method to determine endogenous analyte concentrations by immunoassays to overcome complex biological matrix interference
Authors: Pang Susan , Cowen Simon
Published: December 2017

We describe a novel generic method to derive the unknown endogenous concentrations of analyte within complex biological matrices (e.g. serum or plasma) based upon the relationship between the immunoassay signal response of a biological test sample spiked with known analyte concentrations and the log transformed estimated total concentration. If the estimated total analyte concentration is correct, a portion of the sigmoid on a log-log plot is very close to linear, allowing the unknown endogenous concentration to be estimated using a numerical method. This approach obviates conventional relative quantification using an internal standard curve and need for calibrant diluent, and takes into account the individual matrix interference on the immunoassay by spiking the test sample itself. This technique is based on standard additions for chemical analytes. Unknown endogenous analyte concentrations within even 2-fold diluted human plasma may be determined reliably using as few as four reaction wells.
Leveraging ectopic Hsp90 expression to assay the presence of tumor cells and aggressive tumor phenotypes in breast specimens
Authors: Crouch Brian , Murphy Helen , Belonwu Stella , Martinez Amy , Gallagher Jennifer , Hall Allison , Soo Mary Scott , Lee Marianne , Hughes Philip , Haystead Timothy , Ramanujam Nirmala
Published: December 2017

Hsp90 has been studied extensively as a therapeutic target in breast cancer in pre-clinical and clinical trials, demonstrating a variety of roles in metastatic progression. The evidence to date suggests a compelling opportunity to leverage attributes of Hsp90 expression beyond therapeutics with potential applications in breast cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and recurrence risk assessment. In this study, we developed a completely non-destructive strategy using HS-27, a fluorescently-tethered Hsp90 inhibitor, to assay Hsp90 expression on intact tissue specimens with comparable contrast to in vivo administration routes, and demonstrate the feasibility of our approach in breast cancer patients. In addition to Hsp90 inhibition being most effective in glycolytic tumors, we found ectopic Hsp90 expression to be highest in glycolytic tumors reinforcing its role as an indicator of aggressive disease. This work sets the stage for immediately using Hsp90 to improve outcomes for breast cancer patients without affecting traditional care pathways.
The efficacy of intensity modulated radiation therapy in treating thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy and predictive factors for treatment response
Authors: Li Yong-Jiang , Luo Yong , Xie Xiao-Qi , He Wei-Min , Yi Cheng , Li Ping , Wang Feng
Published: December 2017

The study evaluated clinical efficacy of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in treating patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) and defined predictive factors that associated with treatment response. A total of 178 TAO patients were treated with retro-orbital IMRT with radiation dose of 20 Gy in 10 fractions. The immediate and long-term treatment response and complications were evaluated. Besides, logistic-regression analysis was conducted to identify possible predictive factors. TAO symptom score significantly fell from the initiation to 6-month post-treatment (P < 0.001). 134 patients (73.2%) had mild to significant response to IMRT, and 172 patients (96.6%) achieved stabilization of TAO without future progression. Current smoker (OR 2.88, 95% CI 1.32–6.29; P = 0.008) and symptom duration longer than 18 months (OR 3.33, 95% CI 1.24–8.93; P = 0.017) were identified as independent predictive factors for non-response of TAO to retro-orbital IMRT. Immediate complications were slight and self-limited, and long-term complications mainly included chronic xerophthalmias in12 patients (6.74%) and cataract formation in 4 patients (2.25%). The study suggested that IMRT was a viable option for treating TAO patients, with a satisfactory symptom control ability and acceptable post-treatment complications.
Infrared actuation-induced simultaneous reconfiguration of surface color and morphology for soft robotics
Authors: Banisadr Seyedali , Chen Jian
Published: December 2017

Cephalopods, such as cuttlefish, demonstrate remarkable adaptability to the coloration and texture of their surroundings by modulating their skin color and surface morphology simultaneously, for the purpose of adaptive camouflage and signal communication. Inspired by this unique feature of cuttlefish skins, we present a general approach to remote-controlled, smart films that undergo simultaneous changes of surface color and morphology upon infrared (IR) actuation. The smart film has a reconfigurable laminated structure that comprises an IR-responsive nanocomposite actuator layer and a mechanochromic elastomeric photonic crystal layer. Upon global or localized IR irradiation, the actuator layer exhibits fast, large, and reversible strain in the irradiated region, which causes a synergistically coupled change in the shape of the laminated film and color of the mechanochromic elastomeric photonic crystal layer in the same region. Bending and twisting deformations can be created under IR irradiation, through modulating the strain direction in the actuator layer of the laminated film. Furthermore, the laminated film has been used in a remote-controlled inchworm walker that can directly couple a color-changing skin with the robotic movements. Such remote-controlled, smart films may open up new application possibilities in soft robotics and wearable devices.
One-plasmid double-expression His-tag system for rapid production and easy purification of MS2 phage-like particles
Authors: Mikel Pavel , Vasickova Petra , Kralik Petr
Published: December 2017

MS2 phage-like particles (MS2 PLP) are artificially constructed pseudo-viral particles derived from bacteriophage MS2. They are able to carry a specific single stranded RNA (ssRNA) sequence of choice inside their capsid, thus protecting it against the effects of ubiquitous nucleases. Such particles are able to mimic ssRNA viruses and, thus, may serve as the process control for molecular detection and quantification of such agents in several kinds of matrices, vaccines and vaccine candidates, drug delivery systems, and systems for the display of immunologically active peptides or nanomachines. Currently, there are several different in vivo plasmid-driven packaging systems for production of MS2 PLP. In order to combine all the advantages of the available systems and to upgrade and simplify the production and purification of MS2 PLP, a one-plasmid double-expression His-tag system was designed. The described system utilizes a unique fusion insertional mutation enabling purification of particles using His-tag affinity. Using this new production system, highly pure MS2 PLP can be quickly produced and purified by a fast performance liquid chromatography (FPLC) approach. The system can be easily adapted to produce other MS2 PLP with different properties.
Uptake and transcytosis of functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles in an in vitro blood brain barrier model
Authors: Ivask Angela , Pilkington Emily H. , Blin Thomas , Käkinen Aleksandr , Vija Heiki , Visnapuu Meeri , Quinn John F. , Whittaker Michael R. , Qiao Ruirui , Davis Thomas P. , Ke Pu Chun , Voelcker Nicolas H.
Published: December 2017

Phosphoryl choline grafting secured high cellular uptake and increased transcytosis of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles through a model blood brain barrier.
Modelling complete methane oxidation over palladium oxide in a porous catalyst using first-principles surface kinetics
Authors: Florén Carl-Robert , Van den Bossche Maxime , Creaser Derek , Grönbeck Henrik , Carlsson Per-Anders , Korpi Heikki , Skoglundh Magnus
Published: December 2017

Modeled turnover frequencies for varying temperature and total pressure combined with reaction rate controlling regions.
Transfer hydrogenation of nitrogen heterocycles using a recyclable rhodium catalyst immobilized on bipyridine-periodic mesoporous organosilica
Authors: Matsui Kazuma , Maegawa Yoshifumi , Waki Minoru , Inagaki Shinji , Yamamoto Yoshihiko
Published: December 2017

Transfer hydrogenation of unsaturated nitrogen heterocycles using a rhodium catalyst immobilized on bipyridine-periodic mesoporous organosilica (BPy-PMO) is described.
Nanoparticles of metal–organic cages designed to encapsulate platinum-based anticancer agents
Authors: Yue Zhizhou , Wang Han , Bowers David J. , Gao Min , Stilgenbauer Morgan , Nielsen Frederick , Shelley Jacob T. , Zheng Yao-Rong
Published: December 2017

This work demonstrates the use of nanoformulation to develop metal–organic cages to encapsulate Pt-based anticancer agents for delivery.
Characterization of di-4-ANEPPS with nano-black lipid membranes
Authors: Tsemperouli Maria , Sugihara Kaori
Published: December 2017

We report a platform based on lateral nano-black lipid membranes (nano-BLMs), where electrical measurements and fluorescence microscopy setup are combined, for the calibration of di-4-ANEPPS, a common voltage sensitive dye (VSD).
Synthesis of comb-like polymeric surfactants with a tricyclic rigid core and their use as dispersants in pymetrozine water suspension concentrates
Authors: Yan Xinyan , Zhai Zhaolan , Song Zhanqian , Shang Shibin , Rao Xiaoping
Published: December 2017

Comb-like polymeric surfactants from sustainable forest resource rosin were synthesized and used as a dispersant in pymetrozine water suspension concentrates, which is a kind of green pesticide formulation.
Prediction of supramolecular synthons and crystal packings of supramolecular HMX/solvent assemblies
Authors: Liu Zhichao , Liu Yu , Li Jinshan , Zhu Weihua
Published: December 2017

We report the most stable packings of five HMX/solvent supramolecular assemblies.
Nitrogen doped nanoporous graphene: an efficient metal-free electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Yadegari Amir , Samiee Leila , Tasharrofi Saeedeh , Tajik Sanaz , Rashidi Alimorad , Shoghi Fatemeh , Rasoulianboroujeni Morteza , Tahriri Mohammadreza , Rowley-Neale Samuel J. , Banks Craig E.
Published: December 2017

Nitrogen doped nanoporous graphene electrocatalysts have been successfully prepared and are shown to be useful electrocatalysts towards the ORR.
Process simulation of coal-direct chemical looping gasification for syngas production
Authors: Liu Lang , Cao Yan , Ma Dongran , Liu Qingcai , Yang Jian
Published: December 2017

The coal gasification process is used in the commercial production of syngas as a means toward the clean use of coal.
Potential waste from palm empty fruit bunches and eggshells as a heterogeneous catalyst for biodiesel production
Authors: Putra Meilana Dharma , Ristianingsih Yuli , Jelita Rinny , Irawan Chairul , Nata Iryanti Fatyasari
Published: December 2017

Biodiesel is one of the potential alternative energies produced from a variety of vegetable oils.
A highly reduced graphene oxide/ZrOx–MnCO3 or –Mn2O3 nanocomposite as an efficient catalyst for selective aerial oxidation of benzylic alcohols
Authors: Assal Mohamed E. , Shaik Mohammed Rafi , Kuniyil Mufsir , Khan Mujeeb , Al-Warthan Abdulrahman , Siddiqui Mohammed Rafiq H. , Khan Sohail M. A. , Tremel Wolfgang , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz , Adil Syed Farooq
Published: December 2017

ZrOx(1%)–MnCO3/HRG(1%) based nanocomposites material as an efficient oxidation catalyst.
Low-crystalline mesoporous CoFe2O4/C composite with oxygen vacancies for high energy density asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Zhao Yan , Xu Yuanguo , Zeng Jie , Kong Biao , Geng Xiwen , Li Dongwei , Gao Xiang , Liang Kang , Xu Le , Lian Jiabiao , Huang Shuquan , Qiu Jingxia , Huang Yunpeng , Li Huaming
Published: December 2017

A low-crystalline mesoporous cobalt ferrite and carbon composite (L-CoFe2O4/C) material was prepared via a sol–gel approach and calcination process. An L-CoFe2O4/C//AC asymmetric supercapacitor exhibited high energy density and power density.
Achieving a high-efficiency dual-core chromophore for emission of blue light by testing different side groups and substitution positions
Authors: Shin Hwangyu , Kim Beomjin , Jung Hyocheol , Lee Jaehyun , Lee Hayoon , Kang Seokwoo , Moon Jiwon , Kim Joonghan , Park Jongwook
Published: December 2017

The optical and electronic properties of hetero dual core derivatives can be controlled by simply substituting an electron-donating side group.
Preparation of multifunctional Fe3O4@ZnAl2O4:Eu3+@mSiO2–APTES drug-carrier for microwave controlled release of anticancer drugs
Authors: Bu Yumei , Cui Bin , Zhao Weiwei , Yang Zhenfeng
Published: December 2017

In this study, we prepared a carrier possessing a simple structure and composition, but with the microwave-targeted-fluorescence multifunctional properties.
Sustainable chromic acid oxidation: solar-driven recycling of hexavalent chromium ions for quinone production by WO3nanosponge photoanodes
Authors: Nakajima Tomohiko , Kanaori Megumi , Hagino Aya , Tateno Hiroyuki , Tsuchiya Tetsuo , Sayama Kazuhiro
Published: December 2017

Photoelectrochemical chromium ion oxidation from the trivalent to the hexavalent state has been demonstrated by using WO3nanosponge photoanodes in sulfuric acid electrolytes under simulated sunlight.
Audiological Assessment of Word Recognition Skills in Persons With Aphasia
Authors: Zhang Min , Pratt Sheila R. , Doyle Patrick J. , McNeil Malcolm R. , Durrant John D. , Roxberg Jillyn , Ortmann Amanda
Published: December 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of persons with aphasia, with and without hearing loss, to complete a commonly used open-set word recognition test that requires a verbal response. Furthermore, phonotactic probabilities and neighborhood densities of word recognition errors were assessed to explore potential underlying linguistic complexities that might differentially influence performance among groups.

Method

Four groups of adult participants were tested: participants with no brain injury with normal hearing, participants with no brain injury with hearing loss, participants with brain injury with aphasia and normal hearing, and participants with brain injury with aphasia and hearing loss. The Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6 (NU-6; Tillman & Carhart, 1966) was administered. Those participants who were unable to respond orally (repeating words as heard) were assessed with the Picture Identification Task (Wilson & Antablin, 1980), permitting a picture-pointing response instead. Error patterns from the NU-6 were assessed to determine whether phonotactic probability influenced performance.

Results

All participants with no brain injury and 72.7% of the participants with aphasia (24 out of 33) completed the NU-6. Furthermore, all participants who were unable to complete the NU-6 were able to complete the Picture Identification Task. There were significant group differences on NU-6 performance. The 2 groups with normal hearing had significantly higher scores than the 2 groups with hearing loss, but the 2 groups with normal hearing and the 2 groups with hearing loss did not differ from one another, implying that their performance was largely determined by hearing loss rather than by brain injury or aphasia. The neighborhood density, but not phonotactic probabilities, of the participants' errors differed across groups with and without aphasia.

Conclusions

Because the vast majority of the participants with aphasia examined could be tested readily using an instrument such as the NU-6, clinicians should not be reticent to use this test if patients are able to repeat single words, but routine use of alternative tests is encouraged for populations of people with brain injuries.
Word Processing in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: Evidence From Event-Related Potentials
Authors: Sandbank Micheal , Yoder Paul , Key Alexandra P.
Published: December 2017

Purpose

This investigation was conducted to determine whether young children with autism spectrum disorders exhibited a canonical neural response to word stimuli and whether putative event-related potential (ERP) measures of word processing were correlated with a concurrent measure of receptive language. Additional exploratory analyses were used to examine whether the magnitude of the association between ERP measures of word processing and receptive language varied as a function of the number of word stimuli the participants reportedly understood.

Method

Auditory ERPs were recorded in response to spoken words and nonwords presented with equal probability in 34 children aged 2–5 years with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder who were in the early stages of language acquisition. Average amplitudes and amplitude differences between word and nonword stimuli within 200–500 ms were examined at left temporal (T3) and parietal (P3) electrode clusters. Receptive vocabulary size and the number of experimental stimuli understood were concurrently measured using the MacArthur–Bates Communicative Development Inventories.

Results

Across the entire participant group, word–nonword amplitude differences were diminished. The average word–nonword amplitude difference at T3 was related to receptive vocabulary only if 5 or more word stimuli were understood.

Conclusions

If ERPs are to ever have clinical utility, their construct validity must be established by investigations that confirm their associations with predictably related constructs. These results contribute to accruing evidence, suggesting that a valid measure of auditory word processing can be derived from the left temporal response to words and nonwords. In addition, this measure can be useful even for participants who do not reportedly understand all of the words presented as experimental stimuli, though it will be important for researchers to track familiarity with word stimuli in future investigations.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.5614840
Transpalatine Route for the Correction of Transsphenoidal Encephalocele in a Child: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Silva Aldo , Lopes Fabrício
Published: December 2017

Introduction Transsphenoidal encephalocele is a rare neural tube defect characterized by the herniation of meninges and eventually of parts of the brain through a bony defect in the sphenoid bone. The clinical presentation is variable, and surgical treatment is controversial.

Case Report This report describes the case of an 8-month-old female child diagnosed with transsphenoidal encephalocele. The child presented with obstruction of the upper airways and was fed via a nasogastric tube but did not present changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-axis. The patient underwent surgery with the transsphenoidal–transpalatine route, with an excellent outcome and without fistulas or infections.

Conclusions Although transsphenoidal encephalocele is a rare congenital anomaly, the transsphenoidal–transpalatine route for the correction of this type of encephalocele is a safe option and produces a favorable outcome in pediatric patients.
The Middle Turbinate Resection and Its Repercussion in Olfaction with the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT)
Authors: Mariano Fernando , Hamerschmidt Rogerio , Soares Caio , Moreira Ana
Published: December 2017

Introduction Nasal obstruction is a common complaint, and, for some, the middle turbinate resection is still a controversial issue among the surgical options due to the possibility of deleterious effects on olfaction. The University of Pennsylvania smell identification test (UPSIT) is considered the gold standard of smell identification tests, but data about it is still incipient in Brazil.

Objective To evaluate if the middle turbinectomy has any repercussion on the sense of olfaction by using the UPSIT as an assessment tool.

Methods A prospective study performed between 2013 and 2015 with 27 patients who were treated with middle turbinectomy by the same surgeon and tested with the UPSIT pre- and post-surgery, with a minimum interval of 3 months.

Results Twenty-five patients completed the study. The mean age was 27.9 years. There was no statistical correlation between middle turbinectomy and the UPSIT score, or between gender and the UPSIT score.

Conclusion There was no clinical repercussion on olfaction from partial middle turbinectomy.
No Association of Genetic Markers with Carotid Intimal Medial Thickness in β-Thalassemia Major Patients
Authors: Singh Mable , Kumar Ravindra , Tewari Satyendra , Agarwal Sarita
Published: December 2017

Regular transfusion leads to cardiac siderosis resulting in cardiac complications that account for more than 71% of the total mortality in thalassemia patients. We aimed to study the variants of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), matrix Gla protein (MGP), and estrogen receptor α(ERα), which might be contributing to atherosclerosis, leading to heart failure in thalassemia major. One hundred and five thalassemia patients on regular transfusion and iron chelation therapy were enrolled for the study. Carotid artery intimal medial thickness (CIMT) measurement was done to check for atherosclerosis. MMP9 (C1562T), MGP (T138C), and ERα gene (PvuII (rs2234693T > C) and XbaI (rs9340799A > G) polymorphism were analyzed using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. CIMT values were within the normal range (<0.90 mm) in all patients. There was no difference in mean CIMT values between males and females (0.56 ± 0.11 versus 0.56 ± 0.12, p = 0.928). There was no correlation of CIMT with age, body surface area, and body mass index as well as with serum ferritin levels. No statistically significant difference in frequency of MMP9, MGP, and ERα genotypes was seen in two dichotomized groups of CIMT (CIMT < 0.56 and CIMT ≥ 0.56). Variants of MMP9, MGP, and ERα have a reserved influence on cardiac disease pathogenesis, and the disease phenotype in thalassemia patients may be more strongly impacted by other factors.
Conservative Management after Intraoperative Over-Release of the Medial Collateral Ligament from its Tibial Insertion Site in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Choi Young Joon , Lee Ki Won , Seo Dong Kyo , Lee Suk Kyu , Kim Sang Bum , Lee Hyun Il
Published: December 2017

During varus deformity correction in a patient undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the medial collateral ligament (MCL) could get completely detached from its distal insertion site. Our aim was to evaluate the (1) mid-term clinical outcome and implant survival after conservative treatment in patients with intraoperatively over-released MCL and (2) preoperative risk factors for MCL over-release. A retrospective study was conducted on patients who had undergone a primary TKA between 2001 and 2006. The number of knees with intraoperative MCL over-release (over-released group) was 47 (40 patients); we compared these with the knees that had intact MCL (intact group, 502 knees). Simple anchoring of MCL was performed with no additional protection. The postoperative clinical outcome and implant survival were compared. Risk factors for MCL over-release were identified using multivariate analysis. The average follow-up period was 7.5 years. The mean Knee Society score of the over-released group improved from 23.3 to 92.7 and it was not significantly different from the intact group. Three cases of aseptic loosening occurred in the over-released group and 19 in the intact group (p = 0.423). The survival rates of the implant were 94.4% and 96.1%, respectively, at 13 years postoperatively. Multivariate analysis showed preoperative femoral–tibial angle as the only risk factor for over-release. This study showed that even MCL was over-released inadvertently, but it did not affect the clinical outcome. Preoperative femoral–tibial angle was the only predictable risk factor for MCL over-release.
Impact of Clinical Presentation on Imaging Evaluation to Direct Effective Treatment Strategies
Authors: Schumacher Christopher , Torabi Maha , Lenchik Leon , Ferguson Cristin , Roller Brandon
Published: December 2017

A multitude of musculoskeletal disorders of the knee are commonly encountered in clinical practice. Ensuring an accurate diagnosis can be challenging. It is critical to establish a thoughtful and systematic approach to assessing the patient using history and physical exam followed by appropriate imaging studies. The physical exam may be complicated due to various test maneuvers designed to help make the diagnosis. It is also important to understand the limitations of each physical exam maneuver. When appropriate, imaging is obtained to help make the diagnosis and guide treatment. There are various imaging examinations to choose from when evaluating the knee, including X-rays, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasound. An algorithmic approach to choosing the best imaging study is often helpful to avoid unnecessary costs and burden to the patients. The combination of a thorough clinical assessment and appropriate imaging examinations will result in accurate diagnosis, which directs proper treatment.
Chewing Function in Children with Repaired Esophageal Atresia–Tracheoesophageal Fistula
Authors: Serel Arslan Selen , Demir Numan , Karaduman Aynur , Tanyel Feridun , Soyer Tutku
Published: December 2017

Introduction Feeding problems are common in children with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula (EA–TEF); however, chewing disorders, which may cause inability to intake solid food, have not been evaluated. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the chewing function in children with repaired EA–TEF.

Materials and Methods Age, sex, the type of atresia, the type of repair, and the time to start oral feeding were recorded. The level of the chewing performance was scored according to the Karaduman Chewing Performance Scale (KCPS). The International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) was used to determine the tolerated food texture in children.

Results A group of 30 patients were included, of which 53.3% was male. The percentages of the isolated-EA and that of the EA–distal TEF were 40% and 60%, respectively. The median value for the time to start oral feeding was 4.5 weeks (min = 1, max = 72). Eleven (36.7%) children had chewing disorder. The KCPS scores showed level I in six cases, level III in four cases, and level IV in one case. Five children with chewing disorder had IDDSI level 3 and six had level 7, along with the sensation of stuck food. We found no significant difference between the KCPS scores according to the repair type (p = 0.07). The median values of the KCPS scores of children with primary repair, delayed repair, and colon interposition were 0 (min = 0, max = 4), 0.5 (min = 0, max = 3), 2 (min = 0, max = 3), respectively. A significant positive correlation was found between the time to start oral feeding and the KCPS scores (r = 0.63, p = 0.001).

Conclusion Chewing disorders can be observed in children with EA–TEF, and the type of repair and the delay in oral feeding may be related to chewing disorder. Therapeutic maneuvers are needed to improve the chewing function in children with EA–TEF.
Stroke Mimics und Stroke Chamäleons – Differenzialdiagnose des Schlaganfalls
Authors: Erbguth Frank
Published: December 2017

Durch die Einführung zeitkritischer Therapieoptionen beim ischämischen Schlaganfall und dem damit verbundenen Druck zum schnellen Handeln
erhöht sich die Wahrscheinlichkeit von diagnostischen Fehleinschätzungen (Stroke Mimics und Stroke Chamäelons). Dieser Beitrag erklärt
dieses Begriffspaar und seine Charakteristika in den unterschiedlichen Behandlungsphasen und zeigt die Möglichkeiten zur Reduzierung der
Rate der Fehldiagnosen auf.
Mögliche Gewalt erkennen und dokumentieren
Authors: Blättner Beate , Grewe Henny Annette
Published: December 2017

Was tun bei Gewalt? Ein ungutes Gefühl ist ein Grund, genau hinzuschauen, statt wegzusehen. Für Pflegekräfte kann es entlastend sein,
zu wissen, dass sie nicht beurteilen und bewerten müssen, was passiert ist. Ihre Aufgabe ist es lediglich, der pflegebedürftigen Person das
Gefühl von Sicherheit zu geben, relevante Informationen zu sammeln, alle Beobachtungen so genau wie möglich festzuhalten und die gut
dokumentierten Befunde an die Vorgesetzten weiterzugeben.
Aut-idem-Regelung und Inhalatorauswahl bei inhalativer Therapie in pneumologischen und hausärztlichen Praxen unter Alltagsbedingungen – Einschätzung und Umsetzung durch Pneumologen und Hausärzte
Authors: Hering T. , Andres J. , Mohrlang C. , Redeker M. , Schwarz E.
Published: December 2017

Die medikamentöse Therapie obstruktiver Atemwegserkrankungen stützt sich überwiegend auf inhalativ verabreichte Medikamente. Der Erfolg dieser Therapie hängt in entscheidender Weise von der Auswahl des geeigneten Inhalationsgerätes unter Berücksichtigung der Präferenz des Patienten und der korrekten Anwendung ab. Die Aut-idem-Regelung erlaubt ein aktives Ausschließen der Substitutionsmöglichkeit durch den Apotheker und ermöglicht verordnenden Ärzten, die Abgabe eines bestimmten für den Patienten ausgewählten Inhalators, auf den dieser geschult wurde, sicherzustellen. Nichtsdestoweniger zeigt die vorliegende Analyse, dass Pneumologen und im größeren Maße die Hausärzte von dieser Möglichkeit nicht konsequent Gebrauch machen, obwohl sie die Wichtigkeit der gezielten und patientenindividuellen Auswahl eines Inhalationsgerätes erkennen. In der Folge ist festzustellen, dass Patienten in der Apotheke aufgrund von Marktgegebenheiten wie beispielsweise dem Vorliegen von Rabattverträgen oder dem Vorrat abweichende Inhalationsgeräte erhalten. Somit führt der Austausch des Inhalators durch den Apotheker zu Verunsicherung und Anwendungsproblemen bei Patienten. Folglich entsteht eine Gefährdung des Erfolges der vergleichsweise aufwendigen inhalativen Therapie. Diese wäre abwendbar, wenn die Ärzte hinsichtlich des Einsatzes des Aut-idem-Ausschlusses zur Sicherstellung einer optimalen Therapie in konsequenterer Weise informiert und unterstützt würden.