bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Citrate‐Based Dual‐Imaging Enabled Biodegradable Electroactive Polymers
Authors: Shan Dingying , Kothapalli Sri‐Rajasekhar , Ravnic Dino J. , Gerhard Ethan , Kim Jimin P. , Guo Jinshan , Ma Chuying , Guo Jiazhi , Gui Li , Sun Lin , Lu Di , Yang Jian
Published: June 2018

Increasing occurrences of degenerative diseases, defective tissues, and severe cancers heighten the importance of advanced biomedical treatments, which in turn enhance the need for improved biomaterials with versatile theranostic functionalities yet using minimal design complexity. Leveraging the advantages of citrate chemistry, a multifunctional citrate‐based biomaterial platform is developed with both imaging and therapeutic capabilities utilizing a facile and efficient one‐pot synthesis. The resulting aniline tetramer doped biodegradable photoluminescent polymers (BPLPATs) not only possess programmable degradation profiles (<1 to > 6 months) and mechanical strengths (≈20 MPa to >400 MPa), but also present a combination of intrinsic fluorescence, photoacoustic (PA), and electrical conductivity properties. BPLPAT nanoparticles are able to label cells for fluorescence imaging and perform deep tissue detection with PA imaging. Coupled with significant photothermal performance, BPLPAT nanoparticles demonstrate great potential for thermal treatment and in vivo real‐time detection of cancers. The results on BPLPAT scaffolds demonstrate 3D high‐spatial‐resolution deep tissue PA imaging (23 mm), as well as promote growth and differentiation of PC‐12 nerve cells. It is envisioned that the biodegradable dual‐imaging‐enabled electroactive citrate‐based biomaterial platform will expand the currently available theranostic material systems and open new avenues for diversified biomedical and biological applications via the demonstrated multifunctionality.
Laser‐Enabled Processing of Stretchable Electronics on a Hydrolytically Degradable Hydrogel
Authors: Rahimi Rahim , Shams Es‐haghi Siamak , Chittiboyina Shirisha , Mutlu Zeynep , Lelièvre Sophie A. , Cakmak Mukerrem , Ziaie Babak
Published: June 2018

Degradable electronics represent a rapidly emerging field of science and technology with the potential to serve short‐term medical implantation applications where the device disappears once its function is complete. Despite many efforts in developing new types of degradable electronics, many of such systems are nonelastic and incompatible with the dynamic motion of native soft/elastic biological tissues. Herein, a photo‐crosslinkable hydrogel with integrated electronics that are highly stretchable and degradable in liquid environments is demonstrated. The fabrication process takes advantage of facile laser micromachining of conductive patterns directly onto the hydrogel under ambient conditions and permanent hydrogel–hydrogel bonding. The robustness and degradation rate of hydrogel and the laser‐processed encapsulated stretchable circuits is systematically investigated in different solutions under various conditions. Biocompatibility tests with non‐neoplastic cells (HMT 3522 S1) and cancer cells (T4‐2 and MDA‐MB‐231) are performed in 2D and 3D cell culture systems to confirm instead of evaluate the safety of the hydrogel and its byproducts during degradation as well as the zinc metal used in this technology. As a proof of concept, a stretchable hydrogel‐based device that can be used for remote/wireless delivery of thermal energy into the tissue in contact with the hydrogel is fabricated.
Palladium‐Catalyzed β‐C−H Arylation of Ketones Using Amino Amide as a Transient Directing Group: Applications to Synthesis of Phenanthridinone Alkaloids
Authors: Wang Junliang , Dong Cong , Wu Liangfei , Xu Mingkai , Lin Jun , Wei Kun
Published: June 2018

The direct arylation of aromatic and aliphatic ketones was carried out via palladium‐catalyzed inert C−H bond functionalization with 2‐amino‐N‐isopropyl‐acetamide as a new catalytic transient directing group. The reaction showed excellent functional group compatibility and site selectivity. We demonstrated that α‐amino amide forming N,N‐bidentate coordination with Pd catalyst is more favorable for the β‐arylation of ketones than α‐amino acid forming N,O‐bidentate coordination with Pd catalyst under relatively mild conditions. This elegant approach provides straightforward access to important structural motifs in organic and medicinal chemistry and is demonstrated here in the efficient synthesis of phenanthridinone alkaloids.

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Platinum Deposited on Carbon Supports for the Complete Detoxification of Formaldehyde at Room Temperature under Humid Conditions
Authors: Schade Elke , Wisser Florian M. , Franke Markus , Weiz Alexander , Werheid Matthias , Martin Jan R. , Kaskel Stefan , Grothe Julia
Published: June 2018

Uniform platinum nanoparticles are deposited on porous carbon supports using a polymeric precursor method. The presented approach has a high potential since hydrophilic and hydrophobic carbon supports are homogeneously impregnated without any preliminary treatment. The platinum nanoparticles on porous carbon composites show a high catalytic activity in the complete detoxification of formaldehyde. Catalysts with platinum loading as low as 0.75 wt.% enable a complete conversion of 700 ppm formaldehyde into carbon dioxide at a relative humidity up to 60% at room temperature. We assign this remarkable catalytic acitivty to a symbiotic effect of the platinum nanoparticles with the carbon support in terms of an oversolubility of formaldehyde in water confined in the pores of the support material.
Local patterns of diversity in California northern coastal scrub
Authors: Wrubel Eric , Parker V. Thomas
Published: June 2018

Within global biodiversity hotspots such as the California Floristic Province, local patterns of diversity must be better understood to prioritize conservation for the greatest number of species. This study investigates patterns of vascular plant diversity in relation to coast–inland environmental gradients in the shrublands of Central California known as northern coastal scrub. We sampled coastal shrublands of the San Francisco Bay Area at coastal and inland locations, modeled fine‐scale climatic variables, and developed an index for local exposure to maritime salts. We compared diversity, composition, and structure of the coastal and inland plots using indirect gradient analysis and estimated species accumulation using rarefaction curves. Coastal plots were significantly higher in alpha, beta, and gamma diversity than inland plots. Plant diversity (effective species number) in coastal plots was 2.1 times greater than inland plots, and beta diversity was 1.9 times greater. Estimated richness by rarefaction was 2.05 times greater in coastal sites than inland sites. Salt deposition and water availability were the abiotic process most strongly correlated with increased maritime plant diversity and compositional differences. Stands of northern coastal scrub on the immediate coast with higher maritime influence exhibit markedly higher plant diversity than most interior stands, paralleling previous work in other vegetation types in this region. These studies suggest that the California coastline deserves special consideration for botanical conservation. Fine‐scale climatic models of cloud frequency, water availability, and the salt deposition index presented here can be used to define priority areas for plant conservation in California and other coastal regions worldwide.
Estimating densities of large herbivores in tropical forests: Rigorous evaluation of a dung‐based method
Authors: Ahrestani Farshid S. , Kumar N. Samba , Vaidyanathan Srinivas , Hiby Lex , Jathanna Devcharan , Karanth K. Ullas
Published: June 2018

When sighting‐based surveys to estimate population densities of large herbivores in tropical dense forests are not practical or affordable, surveys that rely on animal dung are sometimes used. This study tested one such dung‐based method by deriving population densities from observed dung densities of six large herbivores (chital, elephant, gaur, muntjac, sambar, and wild pig) in two habitats, dry deciduous forests (DDF) and moist deciduous forests (MDF), within Nagarahole National Park, southern India. Using the programDUNGSURV, dung pile counts, decay rates estimated from field experiments, and defecation rates derived from literature were analyzed together by a model that allows for random events affecting dung decay. Densities of chital were the highest, followed by sambar. Wild pig densities were similar in the two habitats, sambar densities were higher inDDF, and densities of the other species were higher inMDFthan inDDF. We comparedDUNGSURVestimates with densities estimated using distance sampling in the same season.DUNGSURVestimates were substantially higher for all species in both habitats. These differences highlight the challenges that researchers face in computing unbiased estimates of dung decay rates and in relying on defecation rates from literature. Besides the elephant, this study is the first to rigorously test the efficacy of using a dung‐based approach to estimate densities of large herbivore species in Asia, and based on this evaluation, we provide specific recommendations to address issues that require careful consideration before observed dung densities are used to derive animal densities. Our results underline the need for an experimental study of a known population in a fenced reserve to validate the true potential of using dung‐based approaches to estimate population densities.
Cross‐scale effects of spruce budworm outbreaks on boreal warblers in eastern Canada
Authors: Drever Mark C. , Smith Adam C. , Venier Lisa A. , Sleep Darren J.H. , MacLean David A.
Published: June 2018

Insect outbreaks are major natural disturbance events that affect communities of forest birds, either directly by affecting the food supply or indirectly by changing the vegetation composition of forest canopies. An examination of correlations between measures of bird and insect abundance across different spatial scales and over varying time lag effects may provide insight into underlying mechanisms. We developed a hierarchical Bayesian model to assess correlations between counts of eight warbler species from the Breeding Bird Survey in eastern Canada, 1966 to 2009, with the presence of spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferanaClem.) at immediate local scales and time‐lagged regional scales, as measured by extent of defoliation on host tree species. Budworm‐associated species Cape May warbler (Setophaga tigrina), bay‐breasted warbler (Setophaga castanea), and Tennessee warbler (Oreothlypis peregrina) responded strongly and positively to both local and regional effects. In contrast, non‐budworm‐associated species, Blackburnian warbler (Setophaga fusca), magnolia warbler (Setophaga magnolia), Canada warbler (Cardellina canadensis), black‐throated blue warbler (Setophaga caerulescens), and black‐throated green warbler (Setophaga virens), only responded to regional effects in a manner that varied across eastern Canada. The complex responses by forest birds to insect outbreaks involve both increased numerical responses to food supply and to longer term responses to changes in forest structure and composition. These effects can vary across spatial scales and be captured in hierarchical population models, which can serve to disentangle common trends from data when examining drivers of population dynamics like forest management or climate change.
Variation in lipid synthesis, but genetic homogeneity, among Leptopilina parasitic wasp populations
Authors: Visser Bertanne , Hance Thierry , Noël Christine , Pels Christophe , Kimura Masahito T. , Stökl Johannes , Geuverink Elzemiek , Nieberding Caroline M.
Published: June 2018

Lipid synthesis can have a major effect on survival and reproduction, yet most insect parasitoids fail to synthesize lipids. For parasitic wasps in the genus Leptopilina, however, studies have suggested that there is intraspecific variation in the ability for lipid synthesis. These studies were performed on only few populations, and a large‐scale investigation of both lipogenic ability and population genetic structure is now needed. Here, we first examined lipogenic ability of nine Leptopilina heterotoma populations collected in 2013 and found that five of nine populations synthesized lipids. The 2013 populations could not be used to determine genetic structure; hence, we obtained another 20 populations in 2016 that were tested for lipogenic ability. Thirteen of 20 populations (all Leptopilina heterotoma) were then used to determine the level of genetic differentiation (i.e., haplotype and nucleotide diversity) by sequencing neutral mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (ITS2) markers. None of the 2016 populations synthesized lipids, and no genetic differentiation was found. Our results did reveal a nearly twofold increase in mean wasp lipid content at emergence in populations obtained in 2016 compared to 2013. We propose that our results can be explained by plasticity in lipid synthesis, where lipogenic ability is determined by environmental factors, such as developmental temperature and/or the amount of lipids carried over from the host.
Does functional homogenization accompany taxonomic homogenization of British birds and how do biotic factors and climate affect these processes?
Authors: White Hannah J. , Montgomery W. Ian , Storchová Lenka , Hořák David , Lennon Jack J.
Published: June 2018

Environmental change has reshuffled communities often causing taxonomic homogenization rather than differentiation. Some studies suggest that this increasing similarity of species composition between communities is accompanied by an increase in similarity of trait composition—functional homogenization—although different methodologies have failed to come to any consistent conclusions. Functional homogenization could have a large effect on ecosystem functioning and stability. Here, we use the general definition of homogenization as “reduced spatial turnover over time” to compare changes in Simpson's beta diversity (taxonomic turnover) with changes in Rao's quadratic entropy beta diversity (functional turnover) in British breeding birds at three spatial scales. Using biotic and climatic variables, we identify which factors may predispose a site to homogenization. The change in turnover measures between two time periods, 20 years apart, was calculated. A null model approach was taken to identify occurrences of functional homogenization and differentiation independent of changes in taxonomic turnover. We used conditional autoregressive models fitted using integrated nested Laplace approximations to determine how environmental drivers and factors relating to species distributions affect changes in spatial turnover of species and functional diversity. The measurement of functional homogenization affects the chance of rejection of the null models, with many sites showing taxonomic homogenization unaccompanied by functional homogenization, although occurrence varies with spatial scale. At the smallest scale, while temperature‐related variables drive changes in taxonomic turnover, changes in functional turnover are associated with variation in growing degree days; however, changes in functional turnover become more difficult to predict at larger spatial scales. Our results highlight the multifactorial processes underlying taxonomic and functional homogenization and that redundancy in species traits may allow ecosystem functioning to be maintained in some areas despite changes in species composition.
Analysis of cost function based on Kullback–Leibler divergence in independent component analysis for two uniformly distributed source signals
Authors: Tanzawa Kota , Koshita Shunsuke , Abe Masahide , Kawamata Masayuki
Published: June 2018

Independent component analysis plays a central role in blind source separation, leading to many applications of signal processing such as telecommunications, speech processing, and biomedical signal processing. Although the independent component analysis requires cost functions for evaluation of mutual independence of observed signals, little has been reported on theoretical investigation of the characteristics of such cost functions. In this paper, we mathematically analyze the cost function based on Kullback–Leibler divergence in independent component analysis. Our analysis proves that the cost function becomes unimodal when the number of source signals is two and both of the source signals have uniform distributions. In order to derive this result, we make use of whitening of observed signals and we describe the cost function in closed form.
Image enhancement using Retinex and image fusion techniques
Authors: Yamakawa Masaya , Sugita Yasunori
Published: June 2018

The image quality improvement techniques based on Retinex theorem are effective for enhancement of visibility in dark area, while visibility in bright area is degraded. This paper presents an image fusion technique using source image and Retinex‐processed image in order to implement high visibility in both bright and dark areas. In the proposed method, the statistic that corresponds to the subject's evaluation is used for image fusion. It is shown through some experiments that the proposed method can generate the image with high visibility in both bright and dark areas, with less computational cost compared with a conventional image fusion method.
Detection of Analgesics and Sedation Drugs in Whiskey Using Electrochemical Paper‐based Analytical Devices
Authors: Dias Anderson A. , Cardoso Thiago M. G. , Chagas Cyro L. S. , Oliveira Virgílio X. G. , Munoz Rodrigo A. A. , Henry Charles S. , Santana Mário H. P. , Paixão Thiago R. L. C. , Coltro Wendell K. T.
Published: June 2018

The adulteration of whiskey with analgesics and sedation drugs has been a common practice to prevent hangover the following day and promote loss of consciousness. In both situations, the portable and low cost detection platforms are of paramount importance for forensic investigations. This report describes the use of electrochemical paper‐based analytical devices (ePADs) fabricated by pencil drawing for detecting metamizole, paracetamol and midazolam maleate in whiskey. Different types of paper substrates and graphite pencils were initially characterized with ferrocyanide. The best results were achieved using vegetal paper and Aquarelle/6B pencils. ePADs revealed a decrease in current signal indicating a short lifetime, thus limiting their use to disposable sensors. Despite the short lifetime, the graphite pencil ePADs revealed good electrochemical reproducibility (RSD=3.3 %). The forensic feasibility of the proposed ePADs was demonstrated through the analysis of metamizole and paracetamol in whiskey. The limit of detection (LOD) achieved for paracetamol and metamizole were 45 and 20 mg L−1, respectively. ePADs were also tested to detect midazolam maleate in whiskey. The signal recorded exhibited linear correlation in a wide concentration range (25–1000 mg L−1) and a LOD of ca. 5 mg L−1. Considering the disposability and operational simplicity, ePADs offer a good strategy for detecting adulterations in alcoholic beverages at the point‐of‐need.
The Use of a 3D‐printed Microfluidic Device and Pressure Mobilization for Integrating Capillary Electrophoresis with Electrochemical Detection
Authors: Kimlinger Melissa J. , Martin R. Scott
Published: June 2018

Capillary electrophoresis coupled with electrochemical detection can be a powerful analysis tool; however, previous methods developed to integrate these two techniques can often times be fragile and have alignment issues such that there are no commercially available approaches. In this paper, we present the use of a 3D‐printed Wall‐Jet Electrode device for integrating capillary electrophoresis with electrochemical detection. A pressure mobilization step was also utilized to further reduce noise by allowing the electrophoresis separation step to continue only until the first analyte was close to elution. Then, the separation voltage was terminated and pressure‐based flow was used for elution of the analyte bands onto the electrode surface with a wall‐jet configuration. It is shown that the pressure‐based elution is beneficial for the reduction of baseline noise and elimination of field effects. A mixture of catecholamines were separated to demonstrate effectiveness of the system. In addition, the system was coupled with a Beckman Coulter commercial capillary electrophoresis instrument in a straightforward manner. The system was also shown to be effective in separations done with a high ionic strength physiological buffer. This 3D printing approach can be used by researchers to utilize electrochemical detection on commercial capillary electrophoresis systems by downloading the provided STL and/or CAD files.
Separation and determination of corynoxine and corynoxine B using chiral ionic liquid and hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin as additives by field‐amplified sample stacking in capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Wang Zhiying , Guo Haitao , Chen Meng , Zhang Guangbin , Chang Ruimiao , Chen Anjia
Published: June 2018

A sensitive, fast, and effective method, field‐amplified sample stacking (FASS) in capillary electrophoresis, has been established for the separation and determination of corynoxine and corynoxine B. Hydroxypropyl‐β‐CD (HP‐β‐CD) and tetrabutylammonium‐L‐glutamic acid (TBA‐L‐Glu) were used as additives in the separation system. Electrokinetic injection was chosen to introduce sample from inlet at 10 kV for 50 s after a water plug (0.5 psi, 4 s) was injected to permit FASS. The running buffer (pH 6.1) was composed of 40 mM sodium dihydrogen phosphate solution, 130 mM HP‐β‐CD, and 10 mM TBA‐L‐Glu and the separation voltage was 20 kV. Under the optimum conditions, corynoxine and corynoxine B were successfully enriched and separated within 12 min and the sensitivity was improved approximately by 700–900 folds. Calibration curves were in a good linear relationship within the range of 62.5–5.00 × 103 ng/mL for both corynoxine and corynoxine B. The limits of detection (S/N = 3) and quantitation (S/N = 10) were 14.9, 45.2 ng/mL for corynoxine and 11.2, 34.5 ng/mL for corynoxine B, respectively. Finally, this method was successfully applied for the determination of corynoxine and corynoxine B in the stems with hooks of Uncaria rhynchophylla and its formulations.
Dynamics of technological innovation, energy consumption, energy price and economic growth in Denmark
Authors: Murad Md. Wahid , Alam Md. Mahmudul , Noman Abu Hanifa Md. , Ozturk Ilhan
Published: June 2018

This study investigates the dynamic relationships between technological innovation, consumption of energy, energy price, and economic growth in Denmark during the period from 1970 until 2012, using multivariate setting to examine time‐series data. The analysis employs the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to co‐integration to examine both the short and long run dynamics among the variables. Furthermore, the study uses the Granger procedure within the VAR framework to identify causality among the variables. The model used in this study is found to be sound, a diagnosis of the reliability of the model reached by testing normality, functional form, serial correlation, and heteroscedasticity, with stability of the model tested using a cumulative sum and cumulative sum square test, based on recursive regression residuals. The ARDL approach to co‐integration reveals that real GDP growth positively influences energy consumption as well as significantly in both the short run and long run, while energy prices and technological innovation influence energy consumption negatively and significantly. The results ascertain that energy consumption and economic growth are independent of each other, and thus they support a neutral hypothesis for Denmark. Besides, both the technological innovation and energy prices are found to be Granger cause energy consumption. Therefore, the study suggests that Denmark should adopt conservative energy policy using technological innovation and energy prices as instruments to achieve energy security and protect the environment from pollution. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 22–29, 2019
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 3 Trial Evaluating the Efficacy of Burosumab, an Anti-FGF23 Antibody, in Adults With X-Linked Hypophosphatemia: Week 24 Primary Analysis
Authors: Insogna Karl L , Briot Karine , Imel Erik A , Kamenický Peter , Ruppe Mary D , Portale Anthony A , Weber Thomas , Pitukcheewanont Pisit , Cheong Hae Il , Jan de Beur Suzanne , Imanishi Yasuo , Ito Nobuaki , Lachmann Robin H , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Perwad Farzana , Zhang Lin , Chen Chao-Yin , Theodore-Oklota Christina , Mealiffe Matt , San Martin Javier , Carpenter Thomas O ,   on behalf of the AXLES 1 Investigators
Published: June 2018

In X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), inherited loss-of-function mutations in the PHEX gene cause excess circulating levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), leading to lifelong renal phosphate wasting and hypophosphatemia. Adults with XLH present with chronic musculoskeletal pain and stiffness, short stature, lower limb deformities, fractures, and pseudofractures due to osteomalacia, accelerated osteoarthritis, dental abscesses, and enthesopathy. Burosumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody, binds and inhibits FGF23 to correct hypophosphatemia. This report summarizes results from a double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial of burosumab in symptomatic adults with XLH. Participants with hypophosphatemia and pain were assigned 1:1 to burosumab 1 mg/kg (n = 68) or placebo (n = 66) subcutaneously every 4 weeks (Q4W) and were comparable at baseline. Across midpoints of dosing intervals, 94.1% of burosumab-treated participants attained mean serum phosphate concentration above the lower limit of normal compared with 7.6% of those receiving placebo (p < 0.001). Burosumab significantly reduced the Western Ontario and the McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) stiffness subscale compared with placebo (least squares [LS] mean ± standard error [SE] difference, –8.1 ± 3.24; p = 0.012). Reductions in WOMAC physical function subscale (–4.9 ± 2.48; p = 0.048) and Brief Pain Inventory worst pain (–0.5 ± 0.28; p = 0.092) did not achieve statistical significance after Hochberg multiplicity adjustment. At week 24, 43.1% (burosumab) and 7.7% (placebo) of baseline active fractures were fully healed; the odds of healed fracture in the burosumab group was 16.8-fold greater than that in the placebo group (p < 0.001). Biochemical markers of bone formation and resorption increased significantly from baseline with burosumab treatment compared with placebo. The safety profile of burosumab was similar to placebo. There were no treatment-related serious adverse events or meaningful changes from baseline in serum or urine calcium, intact parathyroid hormone, or nephrocalcinosis. These data support the conclusion that burosumab is a novel therapeutic addressing an important medical need in adults with XLH.© 2018 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Using the Scoring Hip Osteoarthritis with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (SHOMRI) system to assess intra‐articular pathology in femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Grace Trevor , Neumann Jan , Samaan Michael A. , Souza Richard B. , Majumdar Sharmila , Link Thomas M. , Zhang Alan L.
Published: June 2018

There is currently no widely accepted classification system of intra‐articular damage in the setting of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). The goal of this study is to correlate the Scoring Hip Osteoarthritis with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (SHOMRI) system with arthroscopic findings in symptomatic FAI patients to justify its use in this setting. Symptomatic FAI patients scheduled for hip arthroscopy were prospectively enrolled. Prior to surgery, radiographs, and an MRI were obtained of the affected hip and all patients completed the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) questionnaire. Each MRI was graded using the SHOMRI system. Intraoperatively, cartilage and labral injury grades were recorded. SHOMRI scores were then correlated with the intraoperative cartilage and labral grades as well as preoperative radiographic findings and HOOS scores. Forty‐three patients were analyzed (mean age 35.7 years, 58.1% male). SHOMRI total scores correlated with intraoperative femoral cartilage grade (ρ = 0.42; p = 0.002), acetabular cartilage grade (ρ = 0.30; p = 0.046), and labral tear grade (ρ = 0.42; p = 0.003) as well as with preoperative Tönnis grade (ρ = 0.37, p = 0.013), HOOS pain score (ρ = −0.33; p = 0.039), HOOS ADL score (ρ = −0.39; p = 0.007), and HOOS sports score (ρ = −0.30; p = 0.037). In conclusion, total scores from the SHOMRI system showed significant correlation with arthroscopic findings as well as radiographic gradings and clinical symptoms in patients with FAI. Use of this quantitative system to assess the burden of chondrolabral damage in FAI appears valid. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:3064–3070, 2018.
Evaluation of mixed oxide formation and sintering behavior in thermal barrier coatings on nickel‐based superalloy
Authors: Parlakyigit A.S. , Gulmez T. , Karaoglanli A.C.
Published: June 2018

Thermal barrier coatings are widely used in aircraft turbines to protect nickel‐based superalloys from the effect of high temperature oxidation and hot corrosion. In this study, both NiCrAlY bond coat and yttria‐stabilized zirconia top coat were deposited using atmospheric plasma spray technique. After coating production, specimens were exposed to oxidation in air atmosphere at 900 °C, 1000 °C and 1100 °C for different periods of time up to 50 h. Microstructural transformations in the ceramic top coat and growth behavior of the thermally grown oxide layer were examined using scanning electron microscopy, porosity calculation, elemental mapping and hardness measurement. Formation of different types of oxides in the thermally grown oxide layer shows that this process strongly depends on deposition technique as well as on oxidation time and temperature. Hardness values of the top coat increased with a decrease in the porosity of the top coat. Uniformity and homogeneity of the thermally grown oxide layer and densification of the top coat were evaluated in terms of the structural durability of thermal barrier coating systems.
The feasibility of synthesis tungsten nitride in magnesium‐tungsten oxide‐melamine ternary system via mechanochemical method
Authors: Torabi O. , Golabgir M.H. , Jamshidi A.
Published: June 2018

Different routes have been investigated to synthesize tungsten (W) – tungsten nitride (W2N) nanocomposite powder by mechanochemical method in magnesium–tungsten oxide–melamine ternary system. In stoichiometric mixture, reduction of tungsten oxide by magnesium took place after 30 minutes of milling in mechanically induced self‐sustaining reaction (MSR). A large amount of heat generated from magnesiothermic reaction, makes the used melamine unstable which causes the formation of undesirable tungsten carbide phase. By separating magnesiothermic reduction from nitride formation reaction, no thermal degradation of melamine occurred; however, milling alone has not brought much change in the used melamine to form tungsten nitride. Dispersion of reaction heat by adding magnesium in three‐stages (during 3 hours of milling) has been capable of preparing maximum value of tungsten nitride phase. According to scanning and transmission electron microscope images, the range of particle size was within 100 nanometer.
Synthesis of high surface area nanostructured La2Zr2O7 by thermal decomposition of new ion pair complex precursor
Authors: Miroliaee A. , Chahaki M. Mohammadi , Abdouss M. , Heydari H.
Published: June 2018

The paper presents an investigation on the influence of the production method upon crystallite and particle size, surface area and morphology of La2Zr2O7 pyrochlore. Mesoporous La2Zr2O7 nanopowders were synthesized by thermal decomposition of [Zr(sal)3(H2O)2][La(dipic)2(H2O)3]⋅3(H2O), (dipic = 2,6‐pyridinedicarboxylate, sal = salicylate), ion‐pair complex precursor as a new method. For comparative purposes, two other samples were fabricated by co‐precipitation and citrate sol‐gel methods. The ion‐pair complex precursor technique displays the low degree agglomeration, the smallest crystallite size (8.6 nm) and the highest surface area (119.20 m2/g) and total pore value (0.13 cc/g), in comparison with two other conventional methods which are related to the influence of the fabrication method. The high structural stability of the complex precursor prevents the rapid growth of particles during the calcination process and thus improves the textural properties.
The spectrum of intraoral bacteria seen in patients with cleft palates in an African setting
Authors: Ramdial Shaal , Madaree Anil
Published: June 2018

Dehiscence or palatal fistula formation following palatoplasty is a complication that has grave consequences for the patient that include tissue loss, emotional distress to the parents and patient, and further medical costs. Palatal dehiscence or fistula formation is multifactorial following surgery—tension of wound closure, poor patient adherence to postoperative orders and wound infection are the most common causes for this. Oral colonization with pathogenic organisms could play a role in wound healing complications. Identification of intraoral bacteria among patients with cleft palates has thus far not been performed. To identify the spectrum of intraoral bacteria in cleft palate patients in an African setting; a retrospective, chart review was performed at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital—a quaternary hospital in Durban, South Africa. All patients with unrepaired cleft palates who underwent palatoplasty in 2015 were included. Fifty‐two patients were included. Preoperative throat/palatal swabs were taken prior to palatoplasty. The various bacteria cultured from the aforementioned swabs were cataloged. Various bacteria were cultured. In total, 23 patients (44.2%) had positive swab cultures. Eighteen cultures (34.6%) had gram‐positive growth only, four cultures (7.7%) had gram‐negative growth only, while one patient (1.9%) cultured both a gram‐positive and a gram‐negative organism. Streptococcus viridans was the most commonly cultured organism (19.2%) while beta‐hemolytic streptococci were cultured from only 4 swabs (7.7%). Our study cataloged the commonly occurring bacteria found in unrepaired cleft palate patients in Africa. Further research into the clinical significance of each bacteria is advised.
Elongation factor P controls translation of the mgtA gene encoding a Mg2+ transporter during Salmonella infection
Authors: Choi Eunna , Nam Daesil , Choi Jeongjoon , Park Shinae , Lee Jung‐Shin , Lee Eun‐Jin
Published: June 2018

Ribosome often stalls on mRNA sequences harboring consecutive proline codons. Elongation factor P (EF‐P) is required for the stalled ribosome to continue translation and thus the absence of EF‐P affects translation of the associated open reading frame. Here we report that EF‐P controls translation of the mgtA gene encoding a Mg2+‐transporting ATPase from the intracellualr pathogen Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. EF‐P's effect on mgtA translation is dependent on the 550th and 551st proline codons in the coding region and thus substitution of those proline codons eliminates EF‐P‐mediated control of MgtA protein without affecting the Mg2+‐transporting activity of the mgtA gene. The Pro550 and Pro551‐substituted mgtA gene promotes Salmonella's intramacrophage survival and mouse virulence, suggesting that EF‐P‐mediated translational control of the mgtA gene is required for Salmonella pathogenesis.
Determination of Amadori Product in Glycated Human Serum Albumin by Spectroscopy Methods
Authors: Bohlooli Mousa , Ghaffari‐Moghaddam Mansour , Khajeh Mostafa , Sheibani Nader
Published: June 2018

The Amadori product is a stable intermediate in the glycation process, and its increased formation is a marker of hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus. Its accumulation in the body contributes to pathological complications of diabetes including diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy, and cardiovascular diseases. In this study the effect of 3‐β‐hydroxybutyrate on the production of Amadori products and structural changes of human serum albumin (HSA) after incubation with glucose was investigated using FT‐IR, circular dichroism (CD), and UV‐visible and fluorescence spectroscopy. Our results showed that the production of Amadori products in HSA incubated with glucose was decreased in the presence of 3‐β‐hydroxybutyrate. The glycation‐mediated alterations in HSA secondary and tertiary structures were also reduced in the presence of 3‐β‐hydroxybutyrate. These changes were attributed to reduced formation of glucose covalent bonds with the HSA lysine residues in the presence of 3‐β‐hydroxybutyrate. Thus, 3‐β‐hydroxybutyrate reduced the production of Amadori products by reacting with lysine residues and decreasing HSA covalent modifications by glucose.
Fabrication of Perovskite Uniform Film in Air via Introduction of Aniline Cations
Authors: Wang Lin , Zhang Zhixin , Wang Bin , Zhang Jingbo
Published: June 2018

Alkylammonium lead(II) halide (APbX3) perovskite is developed to be the most potential light absorbing material in the photovoltaic field. However it is sensitive to water and oxygen, and the perovskite uniform film is difficult to be prepared in atmospheric environment. Here, CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite uniform layer was prepared in ambient environment via adding aniline cations in the methylamine deposition solution of the perovskite layer. XRD results indicate 3D crystalline structure of CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite is remained in the case of addition of the low concentration of aniline cations. With the addition increasing of aniline cations, 2D crystalline structure of (C6H5‐NH3)2PbI4 is gradually formed. SEM images indicate that the introduction of aniline cations obviously improves the coverage of CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite on nanocrystalline TiO2 thin film. The short circuit photocurrent and power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cell based on the mixed perovskite were enhanced. The perovskite solar cell fabricated with the optimized molar ratio of aniline cations shows a short circuit photocurrent density of 17.1 mA⋅cm−2 and power conversion efficiency of 5.7%, which is 28% higher than that of the device based on pure CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite. The photovoltaic performance enhancement of perovskite solar cell is due to the formation of perovskite uniform layer as aniline cations are introduced, which suppresses the possible recombination processes.
Looking for Holes in Sterile Wrapping: How Accurate Are We?
Authors: Rashidifard Christopher H. , Mayassi Hani A. , Bush Chelsea M. , Opalacz Brian M. , Richardson Mark W. , Muccino Paul M. , DiPasquale Thomas G.
Published: June 2018

Background

Defects in sterile surgical wrapping are identified by the presence of holes through which light can be seen. However, it is unknown how reliably the human eye can detect these defects.

Questions/purposes

The purpose of this study was to determine (1) how often holes in sterile packaging of various sizes could be detected; and (2) whether differences in lighting, experience level of the observer, or time spent inspecting the packaging were associated with improved likelihood of detection of holes in sterile packaging.

Methods

Thirty participants (10 surgical technicians, 13 operating room nurses, seven orthopaedic surgery residents) inspected sterile sheets for perforations under ambient operating room (OR) lighting and then again with a standard powered OR lamp in addition to ambient lighting. There were no additional criteria for eligibility other than willingness to participate. Each sheet contained one of nine defect sizes with four sheets allocated to each defect size. Ten wraps were controls with no defects. Participants were allowed as much time as necessary for inspection.

Results

Holes ≥ 2.5 mm were detected more often than holes ≤ 2 mm (87% [832 of 960] versus 7% [82 of 1200]; odds ratio, 88.6 [95% confidence interval, 66.2-118.6]; p < 0.001). There was no difference in detection accuracy between OR lamp and ambient lightning nor experience level. There was no correlation between inspection time and detection accuracy.

Conclusions

Defects ≤ 2 mm were not reliably detected with respect to lighting, time, or level of experience. Future research is warranted to determine defect sizes that are clinically meaningful.

Level of Evidence

Level II, diagnostic study.
P.005 Lisdexamfetamine precipitated pathological gambling
Authors: Chaudhary F , Hirsch A , MacPherson W , Nayati J
Published: June 2018

Background: Lisdexamfetamine has not heretofore been reported to cause pathological gambling. Such a case is presented. Methods: A middle-aged woman, without past interest in gambling, gaming, or risk taking behavior, with childhood history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder presented with difficulty focusing and concentrating. Lisdexamfetamine was started at 20 mg daily and gradually escalated due to lack of efficacy. At 70 mg daily, she began binging on sweets and gambling all day, every day at nearby riverboats, which she had never frequented previously. Upon reduction to 60 mg daily, the gambling resolved. Ritalin 20 mg every morning and 50 mg every afternoon was used without gambling reoccurrence. Results: Mental Status Examination: Alert, cooperative and oriented x 3 with good eye contact. Euthymic, without mania, thoughts logical and goal directed. Conclusions: Enhanced dopamine in the nucleus accumbens may induce hedonic activities including gambling, binging on sweets, or sexual activity (Moore et al. 2014). Lisdexamfetamine has been described to induce mania, and pathological gambling may have been an isolated manifestation of early mania. In those who have recently begun lisdexamfetamine, query should be made regarding change in gambling behavior and in those who are pathologically gambling, investigation should be entertained as to whether they are taking lisdexamfetamine.
P.014 Survey of epilepsy and seizure awareness in Manitoba: an evaluation (SESAME)
Authors: Avery EC , MacDonald C , Ng* M , Serletis D
Published: June 2018

Background: Epilepsy/seizure awareness is improving across Canada. With the formation of a Comprehensive Epilepsy Program in Manitoba (including a new Pediatric Epilepsy Monitoring Unit), a provincial strategy has been proposed outlining a path towards improved access to epilepsy care. We now sought to qualify the current state of clinician knowledge and comfort towards diagnosis and management of this condition. Methods: A qualitative online survey, comprised of 36 short-answer questions, was delivered to primary care and specialist physicians in Manitoba. Results:108 subjects responded, across varying medical disciplines. 101 (93.5%) have previously managed epilepsy patients, and 87 (80.6%) have previously ordered an EEG. A total of 63 (59.4%) have referred to a neurologist, with a lower proportion (30, 28.3%) referring specifically to an epileptologist. 36 respondents (33.3%) have heard of the ILAE guidelines, with 43 (63.2%) reporting refractory epilepsy to be -defined by the failure of 3 (or more) medications. 61 (56.5%) were unaware of invasive EEG techniques. Most (85, 78.7%) understood a role for surgery in treating epilepsy, with 12 (11.1%) unaware of surgical therapies beyond VNS. Conclusions: SESAME successfully identified strong awareness towards epilepsy, with small lapses in knowledge that will benefit from a formal provincial-wide educational curriculum.
P.015 Mesial Temporal Sclerosis is a rare occurrence in Intractable Pediatric Temporal Lobe Epilepsies
Authors: Kassiri J , Rajapakse T , Schmitt L , Wheatley M , Sinclair B
Published: June 2018

Background: Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) accounts for approximately 20% of pediatric epilepsy cases. Of those, many are considered medically intractable and require surgical interventions. In this study, we hypothesized that mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) was less common in patients who had undergone surgery for intractable pediatric TLE than in adult series. We further hypothesized that there was a radiological and pathological discordance in identifying the cause of pediatric TLE. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the charts of pediatric patients with TLE who had undergone surgical treatments as part of the University of Alberta’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Program between 1988 and 2018. Along with preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reports, post-surgical pathology results and seizure outcomes were studied Results: Of the 83 pediatric patients who had undergone temporal lobe epilepsy surgery, 28% had tumors, 22% had dual pathologies, 18% had MTS, 11% had focal cortical dysplasia, and 22% had other pathologies. In addition, for 36% of these patients, discordance between their pre-surgical MRI reports and post-surgical pathology reports were found. Conclusions: This was one of the largest retrospective cohort studies of pediatric patients who had undergone surgery for intractable TLE. This study showed that tumors, and not MTS, were the most common pathology in surgical pediatric TLE.
A.04 High times? Prevalence and perceptions of marijuana use among patients with epilepsy
Authors: Moores G , Lockey A , Attar A
Published: June 2018

Background: Despite medical advances, almost a third of people with epilepsy have medically refractory epilepsy (MRE). With failure of pharmaceutical options, patients are turning to alternative treatment options. Marijuana use in epilepsy has received extensive attention. Two recent studies evaluated the opinions of marijuana use in individuals with epilepsy, but had discrepant marijuana use rates. Methods: The first 200 adult patients with a known diagnosis of epilepsy seen at Hamilton General Hospital after June 1, 2017 were invited to participate. Standardized paper questionnaires gathered information about demographics, epilepsy history, and marijuana use. Results: One hundred forty participants returned questionnaires; 29.5% were active marijuana users; 24.5% had consumed marijuana in the past. Increased seizure frequency was significantly associated with marijuana use. There was a non-significant trend towards increased marijuana use with males and MRE. Almost half the active marijuana users noted improvement in seizure frequency. No participants experienced worsening of epilepsy with marijuana use. Side effects were common (30%), most frequent being mood. Conclusions: Prevalence of marijuana use among people with epilepsy is higher in our study population compared to an Australian cohort, but similar to Canadian studies. Marijuana use was significantly associated with increased seizure frequency. The majority of patients perceived benefit with regard to seizure control.