bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging of pH in vivo using hyperpolarized 13C-labelled zymonic acid
Authors: Düwel Stephan , Hundshammer Christian , Gersch Malte , Feuerecker Benedikt , Steiger Katja , Buck Achim , Walch Axel , Haase Axel , Glaser Steffen J. , Schwaiger Markus , Schilling Franz
Published: May 2017

Natural pH regulatory mechanisms can be overruled during several pathologies such as cancer, inflammation and ischaemia, leading to local pH changes in the human body. Here we demonstrate that 13C-labelled zymonic acid (ZA) can be used as hyperpolarized magnetic resonance pH imaging sensor. ZA is synthesized from [1-13C]pyruvic acid and its 13C resonance frequencies shift up to 3.0 p.p.m. per pH unit in the physiological pH range. The long lifetime of the hyperpolarized signal enhancement enables monitoring of pH, independent of concentration, temperature, ionic strength and protein concentration. We show in vivo pH maps within rat kidneys and subcutaneously inoculated tumours derived from a mammary adenocarcinoma cell line and characterize ZA as non-toxic compound predominantly present in the extracellular space. We suggest that ZA represents a reliable and non-invasive extracellular imaging sensor to localize and quantify pH, with the potential to improve understanding, diagnosis and therapy of diseases characterized by aberrant acid-base balance.
Tau association with synaptic vesicles causes presynaptic dysfunction
Authors: Zhou Lujia , McInnes Joseph , Wierda Keimpe , Holt Matthew , Herrmann Abigail G. , Jackson Rosemary J. , Wang Yu-Chun , Swerts Jef , Beyens Jelle , Miskiewicz Katarzyna , Vilain Sven , Dewachter Ilse , Moechars Diederik , De Strooper Bart , Spires-Jones Tara L. , De Wit Joris , Verstreken Patrik
Published: May 2017

Tau is implicated in more than 20 neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Under pathological conditions, Tau dissociates from axonal microtubules and missorts to pre- and postsynaptic terminals. Patients suffer from early synaptic dysfunction prior to Tau aggregate formation, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here we show that pathogenic Tau binds to synaptic vesicles via its N-terminal domain and interferes with presynaptic functions, including synaptic vesicle mobility and release rate, lowering neurotransmission in fly and rat neurons. Pathological Tau mutants lacking the vesicle binding domain still localize to the presynaptic compartment but do not impair synaptic function in fly neurons. Moreover, an exogenously applied membrane-permeable peptide that competes for Tau-vesicle binding suppresses Tau-induced synaptic toxicity in rat neurons. Our work uncovers a presynaptic role of Tau that may be part of the early pathology in various Tauopathies and could be exploited therapeutically.
Efficient modification of λ-DNA substrates for single-molecule studies
Authors: Kim Yoori , de la Torre Armando , Leal Andrew A. , Finkelstein Ilya J.
Published: May 2017

Single-molecule studies of protein-nucleic acid interactions frequently require site-specific modification of long DNA substrates. The bacteriophage λ is a convenient source of high quality long (48.5 kb) DNA. However, introducing specific sequences, tertiary structures, and chemical modifications into λ-DNA remains technically challenging. Most current approaches rely on multi-step ligations with low yields and incomplete products. Here, we describe a molecular toolkit for rapid preparation of modified λ-DNA. A set of PCR cassettes facilitates the introduction of recombinant DNA sequences into the λ-phage genome with 90–100% yield. Extrahelical structures and chemical modifications can be inserted at user-defined sites via an improved nicking enzyme-based strategy. As a proof-of-principle, we explore the interactions of S. cerevisiae Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (yPCNA) with modified DNA sequences and structures incorporated within λ-DNA. Our results demonstrate that S. cerevisiae Replication Factor C (yRFC) can load yPCNA onto 5′-ssDNA flaps, (CAG)13 triplet repeats, and homoduplex DNA. However, yPCNA remains trapped on the (CAG)13 structure, confirming a proposed mechanism for triplet repeat expansion. We anticipate that this molecular toolbox will be broadly useful for other studies that require site-specific modification of long DNA substrates.
PD-L1 expression in Xp11.2 translocation renal cell carcinoma: Indicator of tumor aggressiveness
Authors: Chang Kun , Qu Yuanyuan , Dai Bo , Zhao Jian-Yuan , Gan Hualei , Shi Guohai , Zhu Yiping , Shen Yijun , Zhu Yao , Zhang Hailiang , Ye Dingwei
Published: May 2017

Programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1), a promising antitumor target, has proven clinical value against many malignancies. However, the PD-L1 content of Xp11.2 translocation renal cell carcinoma (Xp11.2 RCC) and its correlation with clinical outcomes remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate PD-L1 expression in Xp11.2 RCC and to assess its prognostic value. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens from 36 adult patients that were histologically confirmed (by fluorescence in situ hybridization) were subjected to immunohistochemical analysis. Of the 36 Xp11.2 RCC patients, 9 (25.0%) had tumors with positive PD-L1 expression and 27 (75.0%) had tumors with negative PD-L1 expression. Positive PD-L1 expression correlated with advanced tumor stage (P = 0.001), regional lymph node metastasis (P < 0.001), and distant metastasis (P < 0.001). A multivariate analysis identified positive PD-L1 expression was an independent adverse prognostic factor for both progression free survival (hazard ratio: 3.7, P = 0.018) and overall survival (hazard ratio: 4.5, P = 0.034). The median PFS and OS for the whole cohort were 13.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 9.4–16.6 months) and 36.0 months (95% CI, 23.9–48.1 months), respectively. Our findings suggest that positive PD-L1 expression is indicative of worse clinical outcome in Xp11.2 RCC. Further studies are needed to explore the potential efficacy of targeting PD-L1 in Xp11.2 RCC.
Orbital angular momentum analysis for giant spin splitting in solids and nanostructures
Authors: Oh Sehoon , Choi Hyoung Joon
Published: May 2017

Giant spin splitting (GSS) of electronic bands, which is several orders of magnitude greater than the standard Rashba effect has been observed in various systems including noble-metal surfaces and thin films of transition-metal dichalcogenides. Previous studies reported that orbital angular momentum (OAM) is not quenched in some GSS materials and that the atomic spin-orbit interaction (SOI) generates spin splitting in some solid states via the interorbital hopping. Although the unquenched OAM may be closely related to the interorbital hopping, their relationship is hardly studied in the aspect of using the unquenched OAM as a control parameter of GSS. Here, we analyze OAM in GSS materials by using the interorbital-hopping mechanism and first-principles calculations. We report that the interatomic hopping between different-parity orbitals, which is generated by specific broken mirror symmetry, produces k-dependent OAM, resulting in valley-dependent GSS in WSe2 monolayer, Rashba-type GSS in Au (111) surface, and Dresselhaus-type GSS in bulk HgTe. We also demonstrate systematic control of OAM by pressure, external fields, and substrates, thereby controlling the spin splitting, and discuss the temperature dependence of OAM. Our results provide a simplified picture for systematic design and control of GSS materials.
New insights into ocean sunfish (Mola mola) abundance and seasonal distribution in the northeast Atlantic
Authors: Breen Patricia , Cañadas Ana , Cadhla Oliver Ó , Mackey Mick , Scheidat Meike , Geelhoed Steve C. V. , Rogan Emer , Jessopp Mark
Published: May 2017

The ocean sunfish,Mola mola, is the largest teleost fish in the world. Despite being found in all oceans of the world, little is known about its abundance and factors driving its distribution. In this study we provide the first abundance estimates for sunfish in offshore waters in the northeast Atlantic and the first record of extensive sunfish presence in these waters year-round. Abundance estimates and predictive distributions for sunfish in approximately 300,000 km² of the northeast Atlantic were derived from large scale offshore aerial surveys in 2015–2016 using distance sampling techniques. Generalized additive models of sunfish density were fitted to survey data from 17,360 km of line transect effort resulting in minimum abundance estimates of 12,702 (CI: 9,864-16,357) in the summer (Density = 0.043 ind/km²) and 8,223 individuals (CI: 6,178-10,946) (Density = 0.028 ind/km²) in the winter. Density surface models predicted seasonal shifts in distribution and highlighted the importance of the mixed layer depth, possibly related to thermoregulation following deep foraging dives. The abundance estimate and estimated daily consumption of 2,600 tonnes of jellyfish in the northeast Atlantic highlights the need to re-assess the importance of this species in the pelagic ecosystem, and its role in top-down control of jellyfish blooms.
Ligand chain length drives activation of lipid G protein-coupled receptors
Authors: Troupiotis-Tsaïlaki Anastassia , Zachmann Julian , González-Gil Inés , Gonzalez Angel , Ortega-Gutiérrez Silvia , López-Rodríguez Maria L. , Pardo Leonardo , Govaerts Cedric
Published: May 2017

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a lipid mediator that can activate five cell membrane G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) which carry a variety of essential functions and are promising drug targets. S1P is composed of a polar zwitterionic head-group and a hydrophobic alkyl chain. This implies an activation mechanism of its cognate receptor that must be significantly different from what is known for prototypical GPCRs (ie receptor to small hydrophilic ligands). Here we aim to identify the structural features responsible for S1P agonism by combining molecular dynamics simulations and functional assays using S1P analogs of different alkyl chain lengths. We propose that high affinity binding involves polar interactions between the lipid head-group and receptor side chains while activation is due to hydrophobic interactions between the lipid tail and residues in a distinct binding site. We observe that ligand efficacy is directly related to alkyl chain length but also varies with receptor subtypes in correlation with the size of this binding pocket. Integrating experimental and computational data, we propose an activation mechanism for the S1P receptors involving agonist-induced conformational events that are conserved throughout class A GPCRs.
Blunted Ambiguity Aversion During Cost-Benefit Decisions in Antisocial Individuals
Authors: Buckholtz Joshua W. , Karmarkar Uma , Ye Shengxuan , Brennan Grace M. , Baskin-Sommers Arielle
Published: May 2017

Antisocial behavior is often assumed to reflect aberrant risk processing. However, many of the most significant forms of antisocial behavior, including crime, reflect the outcomes of decisions made under conditions of ambiguity rather than risk. While risk and ambiguity are formally distinct and experimentally dissociable, little is known about ambiguity sensitivity in individuals who engage in chronic antisocial behavior. We used a financial decision-making task in a high-risk community-based sample to test for associations between sensitivity to ambiguity, antisocial behavior, and arrest history. Sensitivity to ambiguity was lower in individuals who met diagnostic criteria for Antisocial Personality Disorder. Lower ambiguity sensitivity was also associated with higher externalizing (but not psychopathy) scores, and with higher levels of aggression (but not rule-breaking). Finally, blunted sensitivity to ambiguity also predicted a greater frequency of arrests. Together, these data suggest that alterations in cost-benefit decision-making under conditions of ambiguity may promote antisocial behavior.
Molecular phylogenetics and biogeography of the mint tribe Elsholtzieae (Nepetoideae, Lamiaceae), with an emphasis on its diversification in East Asia
Authors: Li Pan , Qi Zhe-Chen , Liu Lu-Xian , Ohi-Toma Tetsuo , Lee Joongku , Hsieh Tsung-Hsin , Fu Cheng-Xin , Cameron Kenneth M. , Qiu Ying-Xiong
Published: May 2017

Elsholtziaand its allied genera such asCollinsoniaandPerilla(tribe Elsholtzieae, Lamiaceae) are an ecologically and economically important plant group consisting of ~71 species, with most species distributed in East and Southeast Asia, and several species in North America. Their phylogeny and historical biogeography resulting in a distant intercontinental disjunction are poorly understood. Here we use two nuclear (ETS, ITS) and five chloroplast (rbcL,matK,trnL-F,ycf1,ycf1-rps15) fragments to reconstruct the phylogeny, biogeographic history, and patterns of diversification of Elsholtzieae. The tribe Elsholtzieae is monophyletic and divided into five clades. The woodyElsholtziaspecies are nested within herbaceous ones and are inferred to have evolved from herbaceous ancestors. Molecular dating shows that the five major clades were established during the Eocene period, but most of the modern diversity did not originate until the Miocene. The divergence between the New WorldCollinsoniaand the Old WorldMosla-Keiskea-Perillaclade was dated to the mid-Miocene. Ancestral area reconstructions suggest that the tribe originated in East Asia, and then dispersed to Southeast Asia and North America. Overall, our findings highlight the important roles of the uplifts of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) and climate changes from Middle Miocene onwards in promoting species diversification of Elsholtzieae.
Early Onset of Nucleate Boiling on Gas-covered Biphilic Surfaces
Authors: Shen Biao , Yamada Masayuki , Hidaka Sumitomo , Liu Jiewei , Shiomi Junichiro , Amberg Gustav , Do-Quang Minh , Kohno Masamichi , Takahashi Koji , Takata Yasuyuki
Published: May 2017

For phase-change cooling schemes for electronics, quick activation of nucleate boiling helps safeguard the electronics components from thermal shocks associated with undesired surface superheating at boiling incipience, which is of great importance to the long-term system stability and reliability. Previous experimental studies show that bubble nucleation can occur surprisingly early on mixed-wettability surfaces. In this paper, we report unambiguous evidence that such unusual bubble generation at extremely low temperatures—even below the boiling point—is induced by a significant presence of incondensable gas retained by the hydrophobic surface, which exhibits exceptional stability even surviving extensive boiling deaeration. By means of high-speed imaging, it is revealed that the consequently gassy boiling leads to unique bubble behaviour that stands in sharp contrast with that of pure vapour bubbles. Such findings agree qualitatively well with numerical simulations based on a diffuse-interface method. Moreover, the simulations further demonstrate strong thermocapillary flows accompanying growing bubbles with considerable gas contents, which is associated with heat transfer enhancement on the biphilic surface in the low-superheat region.
Enzyme characteristics of pathogen-specific trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatases
Authors: Cross Megan , Rajan Siji , Chekaiban Janine , Saunders Jake , Hamilton Chloe , Kim Jeong-Sun , Coster Mark J. , Gasser Robin B. , Hofmann Andreas
Published: May 2017

Owing to the key role of trehalose in pathogenic organisms, there has recently been growing interest in trehalose metabolism for therapeutic purposes. Trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP) is a pivotal enzyme in the most prominent biosynthesis pathway (OtsAB). Here, we compare the enzyme characteristics of recombinant TPPs from five important nematode and bacterial pathogens, including three novel members of this protein family. Analysis of the kinetics of trehalose-6-phosphate hydrolysis reveals that all five enzymes display a burst-like kinetic behaviour which is characterised by a decrease of the enzymatic rate after the pre-steady state. The observed super-stoichiometric burst amplitudes can be explained by multiple global conformational changes in members of this enzyme family during substrate processing. In the search for specific TPP inhibitors, the trapping of the complex conformational transitions in TPPs during the catalytic cycle may present a worthwhile strategy to explore.
Prognostic significance of TCF21 mRNA expression in patients with lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xiao Jian , Liu Aibin , Lu Xiaoxiao , Chen Xi , Li Wei , He Shuya , He Bixiu , Chen Qiong
Published: May 2017

Several prognostic indicators have shown inconsistencies in patients of different genders with lung adenocarcinoma, indicating that these variations may be due to the different genetic background of males and females with lung adenocarcinoma. In this study, we first used the Gene-Cloud of Biotechnology Information (GCBI) bioinformatics platform to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that eliminated gender differences between lung adenocarcinoma and normal lung tissues. Then, we screened out that transcription factor 21 (TCF21) is a hub gene among these DEGs by creating a gene co-expression network on the GCBI platform. Furthermore, we used the comprehensive survival analysis platforms Kaplan-Meier plotter and PrognoScan to assess the prognostic value of TCF21 expression in lung adenocarcinoma patients. Finally, we concluded that decreased mRNA expression of TCF21 is a predictor for poor prognosis in patients with lung adenocarcinoma.
High-Performance PVC Gel for Adaptive Micro-Lenses with Variable Focal Length
Authors: Bae Jin Woo , Shin Eun-Jae , Jeong Jaeu , Choi Dong-Soo , Lee Jong Eun , Nam Byeong Uk , Lin Liwei , Kim Sang-Youn
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a bio-inspired adaptive micro-lens with electrically tunable focus made of non-ionic high-molecular-weight polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gel. The optical device mimics the design of the crystalline lens and ciliary muscle of the human eye. It consists of a plano-convex PVC gel micro-lens on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) glass, confined with an annular electrode operating as an artificial ciliary muscle. Upon electrical activation, the electroactive adhesive force of the PVC gel is exerted on the annular anode electrode, which reduces the sagittal height of the plano-convex PVC gel lens, resulting in focal length variation of the micro-lens. The focal length increases from 3.8 mm to 22.3 mm as the applied field is varied from 200 V/mm to 800 V/mm, comparable to that of the human lens. The device combines excellent optical characteristics with structural simplicity, fast response speed, silent operation, and low power consumption. The results show the PVC gel micro-lens is expected to open up new perspectives on practical tunable optics.
Biaxial strain tuning of the optical properties of single-layer transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Frisenda Riccardo , Drüppel Matthias , Schmidt Robert , Michaelis de Vasconcellos Steffen , Perez de Lara David , Bratschitsch Rudolf , Rohlfing Michael , Castellanos-Gomez Andres
Published: May 2017

Since their discovery, single-layer semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenides have attracted much attention, thanks to their outstanding optical and mechanical properties. Strain engineering in these two-dimensional materials aims to tune their bandgap energy and to modify their optoelectronic properties by the application of external strain. In this paper, we demonstrate that biaxial strain, both tensile and compressive, can be applied and released in a timescale of a few seconds in a reproducible way on transition metal dichalcogenides monolayers deposited on polymeric substrates. We can control the amount of biaxial strain applied by letting the substrate expand or compress. To do this, we change the substrate temperature and choose materials with a large thermal expansion coefficient. After the investigation of the substrate-dependent strain transfer, we performed micro-differential spectroscopy of four transition metal dichalcogenides monolayers (MoS2, MoSe2, WS2, WSe2) under the application of biaxial strain and measured their optical properties. For tensile strain, we observe a redshift of the bandgap that reaches a value as large as 95 meV/% in the case of single-layer WS2deposited on polypropylene. The observed bandgap shifts as a function of substrate extension/compression follow the order MoSe2 < MoS2 < WSe2 < WS2. Theoretical calculations of these four materials under biaxial strain predict the same trend for the material-dependent rates of the shift and reproduce well the features observed in the measured reflectance spectra.
Male Dispersal Pattern in Golden Snub-nosed Monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) in Qinling Mountains and its Conservation Implication
Authors: Huang Zhi-Pang , Bian Kun , Liu Yi , Pan Ru-Liang , Qi Xiao-Guang , Li Bao-Guo
Published: May 2017

Golden snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) is one of the most endangered primate species found in China, exhibiting multilevel society consisting of several one-male-females together with their offspring units (OMU), and all-male units (AMU). Female dispersal patterns of the species within herd have been well documented, whereas those of the males within or between herds are still poorly understood. Our results based a long-term observation indicate that more than half of sub-adult males, and half of the deposed males that stayed a short period in OMU disperse between herds, three of them established their own OMU in new herd after the dispersal. Smaller number of the sub-adult and adult males, compared with adult females, stayed in natal herd, implying sub-adult males started dispersing and male-biased dispersal occurred between herds. High frequencies of resident males were wounded as their OUMs were taken over, and resident males co-operation defend bachelor males were found. Mating competition among males within the herd may have contributed to the scenarios of male-biased dispersal. The results also suggest that maintaining connection between isolated herds and establishing the corridors among the fragmented habitats for the species will greatly benefit increasing its gene flow and promoting conservation status.
The cubic-to-hexagonal phase transition of cerium oxide particles: dynamics and structure
Authors: Höcker Jan , Krisponeit Jon-Olaf , Schmidt Thomas , Falta Jens , Flege Jan Ingo
Published: May 2017

Real-time microscopy of cerium oxide during heating in vacuum reveals the formation of one cubic and two hexagonal surface phases of Ce2O3.
The re-strengthening effect of a quenching process on the mechanical and tribological performance of electrodeposited Ni–P coatings on steel substrates
Authors: Li Ruishan , Yang Hua , Feng Youcai , Li Dongshan , Zhang Guang'an , Zhang Peizeng
Published: May 2017

Ni–P alloy coatings with a phosphorus content of 4.44 wt% were prepared by the direct current electrodeposition technique.
Molecular dynamics study of microscopic structures, phase transitions and dynamic crystallization in Ni nanoparticles
Authors: Nguyen Trong Dung , Nguyen Chinh Cuong , Tran Vinh Hung
Published: May 2017

Snapshot of solid Ni nano-particles with (a) 4000, (b) 5324, (c) 6912 and (d) 8799 atoms at 300 K. The atoms are coloured according to their structures: red for FCC, blue for HCP, black for BCC and yellow for amorphous.
Metabolomics combined with pattern recognition and bioinformatics analysis methods for the development of pharmacodynamic biomarkers on liver fibrosis
Authors: Fang Junwei , Wang Liping , Wang Yang , Qiu Mingfeng , Zhang Yongyu
Published: May 2017

Metabolomics combined with pattern recognition and network analysis maybe an attractive strategy for the pharmacodynamics biomarkers development on liver fibrosis.
Crystal structure of Aquifex aeolicus gene product Aq1627: a putative phosphoglucosamine mutase reveals a unique C-terminal end-to-end disulfide linkage
Authors: Sridharan Upasana , Kuramitsu Seiki , Yokoyama Shigeyuki , Kumarevel Thirumananseri , Ponnuraj Karthe
Published: May 2017

The crystal structure of Aq1627 protein from Aquifex aeolicus, a hyperthermophilic bacterium has been solved, which reveals a unique end-to-end disulfide linkage.
Formal total synthesis of selaginpulvilin D
Authors: Chinta Bhavani Shankar , Baire Beeraiah
Published: May 2017

An efficient formal total synthesis of selaginpulvilin D has been achieved, employing a chemoselective dehydro Diels–Alder reaction as the key step.
Metal ion type significantly affects the morphology but not the activity of lipase–metal–phosphate nanoflowers
Authors: Sharma N. , Parhizkar M. , Cong W. , Mateti Srikanth , Kirkland M. A. , Puri M. , Sutti A.
Published: May 2017

Using different metal ions to prepare hybrid lipase nanoflowers resulted in a variety of different morphologies, but did not significantly affect the specific activity of the enzyme.
Biodegradation of the neonicotinoid insecticide acetamiprid in surface water by the bacterium Variovorax boronicumulans CGMCC 4969 and its enzymatic mechanism
Authors: Sun Shi-Lei , Yang Wen-Long , Guo Jing-Jing , Zhou Yi-Ning , Rui Xue , Chen Chen , Ge Feng , Dai Yi-Jun
Published: May 2017

The plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium Variovorax boronicumulans CGMCC4969 was used to degrade the neonicotinoid insecticide, acetamiprid (AAP), in surface water, and the enzymatic mechanisms of AAP degradation were explored.
The influence of deposited potential on the ORR activity of Pt catalysts on glassy carbon electrode
Authors: Cao Fengting , Zang Zhao , Sun Shimei , Sun Xiaolin , Li Xichao , Liu Tao , Wu Jianfei
Published: May 2017

Herein, we have demonstrated how different deposited potential scan affect the ORR activity of Pt catalysts on glassy carbon electrode (Pt/GC).
Effect of hypoxia on the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of zaleplon as a probe of CYP3A1/2 activity
Authors: Gong Wenwen , Xu Pingxiang , Guo Shanshan , Li Xiaorong , Jin Zengliang , Zhao Yuming , Fan Ming , Xue Ming
Published: May 2017

The objective of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of zaleplon (ZAL) in rats under hypoxic and normoxic condition and the effect of hypoxia on the protein expression and activities of the main metabolic enzyme CYP3A1/2.
Magnetic porous graphene/multi-walled carbon nanotube beads from microfluidics: a flexible and robust oil/water separation material
Authors: Bu Zhipeng , Zang Linlin , Zhang Yanhong , Cao Xiaojian , Sun Liguo , Qin Chuanli , Wang Cheng
Published: May 2017

3D magnetic porous graphene/multi-walled carbon nanotube beads were fabricated by a modified microfluidic device for efficient, recyclable oil/water mixture separation.
Resorbable nanocomposites with bone-like strength and enhanced cellular activity
Authors: Lu S. , McGough M. A. P. , Rogers B. R. , Wenke J. C. , Shimko D. , Guelcher S. A.
Published: May 2017

Nanocomposites fabricated by mixing a nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite prepolymer and a polyol exhibit bone-like strength, enhance mineralization, and support osteoclast-mediated resorption.
Eu3+based mesoporous hybrid material with tunable multicolor emission modulated by fluoride ion: application for selective sensing toward fluoride ion
Authors: Li Yajuan , Yu Xudong , Yu Tao
Published: May 2017

We first synthesize a lanthanide functionalized mesoporous hybrid material with tunable multicolor emission and F−sensing property.
Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSSs): an important building block for organic optoelectronic materials
Authors: Li Zibiao , Kong Junhua , Wang FuKe , He Chaobin
Published: May 2017

Due to the unique hybrid structures and physical properties of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSSs), hybridation with POSS has been demonstrated to be an important approach to build high-performance organic optoelectronic materials for applications in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), liquid crystal display, sensors and electrochromic devices.
Hiding in plain sight: immune evasion by the staphylococcal protein SdrE
Authors: Herr Andrew B. , Thorman Alexander W.
Published: May 2017

The human immune system is responsible for identification and destruction of invader cells, such as the bacterial pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. In response, S. aureus brings to the fight a large number of virulence factors, including several that allow it to evade the host immune response. The staphylococcal surface protein SdrE was recently reported to bind to complement Factor H, an important regulator of complement activation. Factor H attaches to the surface of host cells to inhibit complement activation and amplification, preventing the destruction of the host cell. SdrE binding to Factor H allows S. aureus to mimic a host cell and reduces bacterial killing by granulocytes. In a new study published in Biochemical Journal, Zhang et al. describe crystal structures of SdrE and its complex with the C-terminal portion of Factor H. The structure of SdrE and its interaction with the Factor H peptide closely resemble a family of surface proteins that recognize extracellular matrix components such as fibrinogen. However, unbound SdrE forms a novel ‘Closed’ conformation with an occluded peptide-binding groove. These structures reveal a fascinating mechanism for immune evasion and provide a potential avenue for the development of novel antimicrobial agents to target SdrE.
Something is definitely better than nothing: simple strategies to prevent vascular dysfunction
Authors: Trinity Joel D.
Published: May 2017

Understanding the negative health consequences of a physical inactivity has been the topic of much investigation as an alarming number of adults have adopted a sedentary lifestyle. With the rise in sedentarism the field of inactivity physiology has emerged. The goal of inactivity physiology is to identify the impact in inactivity on health and develop strategies that effectively minimize the risk of a sedentary lifestyle. Arising from this field is the finding that excessive sitting is linked to increased cardiovascular and metabolic disease and all-cause mortality. Most importantly, these relationships exist even in individuals that are physically active. Clearly, excessive sitting is an occupational hazard with significant health consequences. Through a series of investigations, including research published this issue of Clinical Science, Padilla and colleagues have identified that prolonged sitting evokes vascular dysfunction and that this dysfunction is caused by reduced shear stress. This commentary highlights this series of investigations and culminates with an overview of how prior exercise and standing are effective strategies to circumvent vascular dysfunction that is caused by excessive sitting.
How Much Information Do People With Aphasia Convey via Gesture?
Authors: de Beer Carola , Carragher Marcella , van Nispen Karin , Hogrefe Katharina , de Ruiter Jan P. , Rose Miranda L.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

People with aphasia (PWA) face significant challenges in verbally expressing their communicative intentions. Different types of gestures are produced spontaneously by PWA, and a potentially compensatory function of these gestures has been discussed. The current study aimed to investigate how much information PWA communicate through 3 types of gesture and the communicative effectiveness of such gestures.

Method

Listeners without language impairment rated the information content of short video clips taken from PWA in conversation. Listeners were asked to rate communication within a speech-only condition and a gesture + speech condition.

Results

The results revealed that the participants' interpretations of the communicative intentions expressed in the clips of PWA were significantly more accurate in the gesture + speech condition for all tested gesture types.

Conclusion

It was concluded that all 3 gesture types under investigation contributed to the expression of semantic meaning communicated by PWA. Gestures are an important communicative means for PWA and should be regarded as such by their interlocutors. Gestures have been shown to enhance listeners' interpretation of PWA's overall communication.
Apoptosis and Vocal Fold Disease: Clinically Relevant Implications of Epithelial Cell Death
Authors: Novaleski Carolyn K. , Carter Bruce D. , Sivasankar M. Preeti , Ridner Sheila H. , Dietrich Mary S. , Rousseau Bernard
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Vocal fold diseases affecting the epithelium have a detrimental impact on vocal function. This review article provides an overview of apoptosis, the most commonly studied type of programmed cell death. Because apoptosis can damage epithelial cells, this article examines the implications of apoptosis on diseases affecting the vocal fold cover.

Method

A review of the extant literature was performed. We summarized the topics of epithelial tissue properties and apoptotic cell death, described what is currently understood about apoptosis in the vocal fold, and proposed several possible explanations for how the role of abnormal apoptosis during wound healing may be involved in vocal pathology.

Results and Conclusions

Apoptosis plays an important role in maintaining normal epithelial tissue function. The biological mechanisms responsible for vocal fold diseases of epithelial origin are only beginning to emerge. This article discusses speculations to explain the potential role of deficient versus excessive rates of apoptosis and how disorganized apoptosis may contribute to the development of common diseases of the vocal folds.
The Relationship Between Iron Deficiency Anemia and Sensorineural Hearing Loss in the Pediatric and Adolescent Population
Authors: Schieffer Kathleen M. , Connor James R. , Pawelczyk James A. , Sekhar Deepa L.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

A correlation between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) was described in adults. In this study, we examined if there is a relationship between IDA and hearing loss in the pediatric population.

Method

This was a retrospective cohort study of data collected from the Informatics for Integrating Biology and the Bedside database from 2011 to 2016. Children and adolescents 4–21 years old seen at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, were examined for hearing loss and IDA status. Hearing loss was determined by International Classification of Disease-9 and -10 codes, and IDA was determined by both low hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels for age and sex.

Results

We identified 20,113 patients. Prevalence of hearing loss and IDA was 1.7% and 2.3%, respectively. The prevalence of all hearing loss was 3.0% in the IDA cohort and 1.7% in those without IDA. Children and adolescents with IDA are at increased odds of developing SNHL (adjusted odds ratio: 3.67, 95% CI [1.60–7.30]).

Conclusions

Children with IDA demonstrate increased likelihood of SNHL. Although correction of IDA in those with hearing loss has yet to be linked to improvements in hearing outcomes, screening for and correcting IDA among pediatric patients will positively affect overall health status.

Supplemental Material:
https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.5087071
fault detection observer design in finite‐frequency domain for Lipschitz non‐linear systems
Authors: Zhou Meng , Wang Zhenhua , Shen Yi , Shen Mouquan
Published: May 2017

This study is about fault detection observer design in finite‐frequency domain for Lipschitz non‐linear systems with actuator fault. To make the generated residual sensitive to fault while robust against disturbance, the authors derive design conditions for the fault detection observer to achieve fault sensitivity performance in finite‐frequency domain and disturbance attenuation performance. The authors further transform the design conditions as a set of linear matrix inequalities to facilitate the observer design. Besides, some extra design degrees of freedom parameters are provided in the proposed method to further reduce some conservatism. Numerical simulations of a single‐link flexible joint robot are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Single‐stage soft‐switched PWM flyback power factor correction with reduced dead angle
Authors: Tavassol Mohammad Mehdi , Farzanehfard Hosein , Adib Ehsan
Published: May 2017

This study proposes a single‐stage zero‐voltage transition pulse width modulation (PWM) flybackpower factor correction converter. The bulk capacitor voltage is controlled byusing negative magnetic feedback (NMF) without any input current dead angle. Inthe proposed circuit, the main and auxiliary switches turn on and off underzero‐voltage switching and zero‐current switching conditions, respectively. Theproposed auxiliary circuit provides soft switching condition while eliminatingthe dead angle caused by NMF winding. Thus, high‐efficiency and high‐powerfactor is achieved. Experimental results obtained from a 160 V/300 W circuit areprovided to verify that the proposed structure can suppress the dead angle atzero crossing and soft switching of all switches can be achieved properly.
Aerosol method assisted fabrication Ag@SiO2 and efficient catalytic activity for reduction of 4‐nitrophenol
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Quan Lin , Hu Bo , Wei Guohui , Jiang Xingmao
Published: May 2017

The Ag‐decorated silica nanoparticles (termed core–shell Ag@SiO2 mesosphere) have been successfully fabricated by an aerosol method in this Letter. The size of Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) can be well controlled by tuning the calcination temperature and the AgNPs on the surface of silica can be gradually grown with the increase of the calcination temperature. Moreover, the catalytic activity of nanocomposites for a reduction of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP) was studied in this Letter. The as‐prepared nanocomposites with well dispersed AgNPs possessed distinguished catalytic activities in catalysing for the reduction of 4‐NP by NaBH4 in the aqueous phase, which was detected by UV–vis absorption spectroscopy. The results showed that the nanocomposites presented a distinguished catalytic activity compared to the pure spherical AgNPs.
Fabrication of piezoelectric vibration energy harvester using coatable PolyVinylidene DiFluoride and its characterisation
Authors: Takise Hiroki , Takahashi Tomokazu , Suzuki Masato , Aoyagi Seiji
Published: May 2017

A cantilever‐type vibration energy harvester (VEH) made of PolyVinylidene DiFluoride (PVDF) was fabricated and characterised. PVDF is one of polymer piezoelectric material, which is more flexible than ceramic‐based piezoelectric materials such as lead zirconate titanate. Since PVDF dissolves in organic solvent, it is coatable on substrate or parts, making it compatible with micro electro mechanical systems process. The fabrication process of VEH is as follows: a PVDF film (thickness: 30 µm) was coated on a phosphor bronze rectangular plate (length: 35 mm, width: 15 mm, thickness: 0.1 mm) by bar‐coating method, followed by polarisation by corona discharge method. Aluminium top electrode (length: 30 mm, width: 10 mm, thickness: 0.3 μm) was deposited on the PVDF film by DC sputtering. One end of the plate was clamped by a fixture to form a cantilever, the length of which is 25 mm. Finally, a proof mass (m = 0.2 g) was attached to the free end of cantilever. Output power P at resonant frequency (= 55 Hz) was measured as a function of load resistance R, in which acceleration was set to 17 m/s2. Maximum output of 4.3 µW was achieved at R = 2.1 MΩ, which is not inferior to those of reported VEHs using ceramic piezoelectric materials.
Eosin Y-Sensitized Photocatalytic Reaction of Tertiary Aliphatic Amines with Arenesulfonyl Chlorides under Visible-Light Irradiation
Authors: Zhang Ronghua , Cai Yuguo , Sun Deli , Xu Song , Zhou Qiguang
Published: May 2017

A mild, practical, and environmentally friendly route to vinyl sulfones and sulfonamides has been developed based on the reaction of aliphatic amines with arenesulfonyl chlorides in the presence of eosin Y as a photocatalyst under visible light. The method permits the selective formation of vinyl sulfones or sulfonamides, depending on the oxidation environment and solvent. A wide range of products were obtained in moderate to good yields under the optimized conditions.
Fernab der Klinikrealität
Authors: Häser Isabel
Published: May 2017

Die Deutsche Krankenhausgesellschaft (DKG) klagt gegen den „Rahmenvertrag Entlassmanagement“. Sie hält ihn in zentralen Teilen für rechtswidrig.
40 Jahre Discher Technik: Eine Erfolgsgeschichte
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: May 2017

Vom Kleinstunternehmen im Keller eines Wohnhauses zum internationalen Gesamtanbieter für die Ausstattung von Pflegearbeitsräumen – das Familienunternehmen Discher Technik feiert 40-jähriges Jubiläum und setzt auch in Zukunft auf Nachhaltigkeit.
Die Krankenhauslogistik als Thema der WGKT: Betriebsorientierte Logistik – Planung und Realisierung
Authors: Hafer F.-Ludwin
Published: May 2017

Die Logistik ist ein Kernelement des Krankenhausbetriebs. Durch ihre Komplexität und verschiedenen Themenbereiche werden die Potenziale für einen reibungslosen Klinikbetrieb oft nicht ausgeschöpft. Ihre Planung und Umsetzung kann ein passendes Tätigkeitsfeld für technische Abteilungen sein.
Donor-Site Outcomes for the Osteocutaneous Radial Forearm Free Flap
Authors: Satteson Adam , Waltonen Joshua , Li Zhongyu , Wiesler Ethan , Apel Peter , Graves Benjamin , Satteson Ellen
Published: May 2017

Background This study sought to characterize the donor-site complications associated with the osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap (ORFFF) used for mandibular reconstruction, as well as to compare donor-site complications between the ORFFF and fasciocutaneous radial forearm free flap (FRFFF).

Methods An Institution Review Board approved, retrospective review identified all ORFFF and FRFFF performed for head and neck reconstruction with a single otolaryngology surgeon at an academic medical center over a 3-year period. Patients requiring an ORFFF underwent harvest of half of the diaphyseal diameter of the radius with prophylactic plating performed by hand surgeons. Donor-site outcomes including infection, skin graft loss, tendon exposure, neuropathy, radius fracture, hardware complications, and need for additional donor-site surgery were compared.

Results In this study, 25 patients underwent ORFFF harvest, and 52 underwent FRFFF harvest. There was one radius fracture occurring in association with a hardware infection requiring reoperation. No fractures or other major donor-site complications were seen in the FRFFF group. Similar rates of minor complications were noted with skin graft take less than 50% in 4% (n = 1) and 8% (n = 4) with ORFFF and FRFFF, respectively, and tendon exposure in 8% (n = 2) and 15% (n = 8) with ORFFF and FRFFF, respectively. No soft tissue infections or sensory neuropathies were seen. Mean follow-up was 14.2 months for the ORFFF group and 11.7 months for the FRFFF group.

Conclusion The risk of fracture following ORFFF harvest with prophylactic plating is small. Other donor-site complication rates were similar with both flap techniques.
New Genes for Epilepsy–Autism Comorbidity
Authors: Ishii Atsushi , Hirose Shinichi
Published: May 2017

Similar genetic abnormalities have been demonstrated for epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Genetic syndromes, such as fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis, also have high rates of comorbidity with epilepsy and ASD. Furthermore, next-generation sequencing has identified common genetic abnormalities in epilepsy and ASD, and recurrent de novo gene alterations can be recognized as mutations if there is sufficient evidence for pathogenicity. Such mutations occur in SCN2A and GRIN2B. SCN2A encodes the α2 subunit of the Nav1.2 neuronal voltage-gated Na+ channel, which is mutated in several genetically mediated epilepsies. GRIN2B encodes a subtype of the N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor and is mutated in epileptic encephalopathies, which often present with features of ASD. In addition, KCNT1 encodes the Na+-dependent K+ channel known as Slack. Mutations in KCNT1 produce several epilepsy phenotypes, including autosomal dominant frontal lobe epilepsy, which often includes features of ASD. Slack also has an intracellular fragile X mental retardation protein-binding domain, which is significant in its relationship with intellectual disabilities. Furthermore, DEPDC5 mutations produce autosomal dominant familial focal epilepsy with variable foci and may contribute to ASD. DEPDC5 encodes a regulator of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, which is also affected by tuberous sclerosis mutations, suggesting that “mTORopathy” may underlie both epilepsy and ASD. Mutations in PCDH19 also produce an epilepsy syndrome that exclusively affects heterozygous females and is associated with ASD. The genetic similarities between ASD and epilepsy provide insight into the pathological molecular mechanisms of both conditions and therefore may be useful for understanding clinical outcomes.
European Pediatric Surgical Training
Authors: Schmedding Andrea , Czauderna Piotr , Rolle Udo
Published: May 2017

Introduction Pediatric surgery is essential for the surgical treatment of children in Europe and is generally a well-accepted specialty in Europe. There are still limited data on the training conditions within the European national associations of pediatric surgery.

Materials and Methods A questionnaire designed by the executive committee of UEMS Section of Pediatric Surgery was distributed among all ordinary and associated UEMS members, which have national pediatric surgical associations, and to Russia. These questionnaires were completed by colleagues of the national associations and returned to the authors.

Results In this study, 29 out of 37 (78%) national associations of pediatric surgery answered the questionnaire. In 90% of these countries, pediatric surgery is a distinct specialty. Training usually starts with a common surgical trunk (75%) of 1 to 2 years; the whole training lasts ∼6 years. Nonsurgical parts of the training, such as pediatrics, are part of the training program in 54% of countries. The content of the training comprises general pediatric surgery and newborn surgery in all countries, pediatric surgical oncology and pediatric urology in most countries, and pediatric traumatology and pediatric neurosurgery only in some countries. More than 90% of countries use a training logbook, and 79% require a final examination. The European Board of Pediatric Surgery exam is recognized only in 54% of the countries.

Conclusion This study reveals that a uniform training schedule in pediatric surgery throughout Europe has not been achieved. This situation mandates urgent attempt to harmonize both training curricula and final exams at European level.