bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation of sulfamethazine antibiotics in Fenton‐like system using Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles as catalyst
Authors: Bai Zhiyong , Yang Qi , Wang Jianlong
Published: May 2017

In this study, Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized, characterized and used for the degradation of sulfamethazine (SMT). The results showed that Fe3O4 MNPs were efficient and reusable heterogeneous catalytic for SMT degradation in a Fenton‐like system. More than 80% of the SMT was degraded under optimal conditions: initial pH of 3.0, 20 mM of H2O2, Fe3O4 MNPs dose of 1.0 g/L, and initial concentration of SMT 20 mg/L (initial total organic carbon: 10.4 mg/L). Among the parameters that affect SMT degradation, initial pH is of crucial importance to degrade SMT in the Fenton‐like system. A possible pathway of SMT degradation was proposed based on detected products in the solution. The Fe3O4 MNPs exhibited high stability and reusability. The SMT removal remained at 80% over five runs with the catalyst. Slight agglomeration and dissolution of Fe3O4 MNPs after reactions were observed by X‐ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy analysis. The SMT removal and mineralization could be enhanced using Fe3O4 MNPs/powder‐activated carbon (PAC) composite as catalyst. The removal efficiency of SMT and TOC increased to 94.7% and 80.8% in optimal conditions, respectively, in Fenton‐like system catalyzed by Fe3O4 MNPs/PAC composite. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1743–1753, 2017
Rocking damage‐free steel column base with friction devices: design procedure and numerical evaluation
Authors: Freddi Fabio , Dimopoulos Christoforos A. , Karavasilis Theodore L.
Published: May 2017

Earthquake‐resilient steel frames, such as self‐centering frames or frames with passive energy dissipation devices, have been extensively studied during the past decade, but little attention has been paid to their column bases. The paper presents a rocking damage‐free steel column base, which uses post‐tensioned high‐strength steel bars to control rocking behavior and friction devices to dissipate seismic energy. Contrary to conventional steel column bases, the rocking column base exhibits monotonic and cyclic moment–rotation behaviors that are easily described using simple analytical equations. Analytical equations are provided for different cases including structural limit states that involve yielding or loss of post‐tensioning in the post‐tensioned bars. A step‐by‐step design procedure is presented, which ensures damage‐free behavior, self‐centering capability, and adequate energy dissipation capacity for a predefined target rotation. A 3D nonlinear finite element (FE) model of the column base is developed in abaqus. The results of the FE simulations validate the accuracy of the moment–rotation analytical equations and demonstrate the efficiency of the design procedure. Moreover, a simplified model for the column base is developed in OpenSees. Comparisons among the OpenSees and abaqus models demonstrate the efficiency of the former and its adequacy to be used in nonlinear dynamic analysis. A prototype steel building is designed as a self‐centering moment‐resisting frame with conventional or rocking column bases. Nonlinear dynamic analyses show that the rocking column base fully protects the first story columns from yielding and eliminates the first story residual drift without any detrimental effect on peak interstory drifts. The study focuses on the 2D rocking motion and, thus, ignores 3D rocking effects such as biaxial bending deformations in the friction devices. The FE models, the analytical equations, and the design procedure will be updated and validated to cover 3D rocking motion effects after forthcoming experimental tests on the column base. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Multimodal Dialog System for Language Assessment: Current State and Future Directions
Authors: Suendermann‐Oeft David , Ramanarayanan Vikram , Yu Zhou , Qian Yao , Evanini Keelan , Lange Patrick , Wang Xinhao , Zechner Klaus
Published: May 2017

We present work in progress on a multimodal dialog system for English language assessment using a modular cloud‐based architecture adhering to open industry standards. Among the modules being developed for the system, multiple modules heavily exploit machine learning techniques, including speech recognition, spoken language proficiency rating, speaker recognition, and the scoring of behaviors in multimodal data streams.
Limbic grey matter changes in early Parkinson's disease
Authors: Li Xingfeng , Xing Yue , Schwarz Stefan T , Auer Dorothee P.
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate local and network‐related changes of limbic grey matter in early Parkinson's disease (PD) and their inter‐relation with non‐motor symptom severity. We applied voxel‐based morphometric methods in 538 T1 MRI images retrieved from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative website. Grey matter densities and cross‐sectional estimates of age‐related grey matter change were compared between subjects with early PD (n = 366) and age‐matched healthy controls (n = 172) within a regression model, and associations of grey matter density with symptoms were investigated. Structural brain networks were obtained using covariance analysis seeded in regions showing grey matter abnormalities in PD subject group. Patients displayed focally reduced grey matter density in the right amygdala, which was present from the earliest stages of the disease without further advance in mild‐moderate disease stages. Right amygdala grey matter density showed negative correlation with autonomic dysfunction and positive with cognitive performance in patients, but no significant interrelations were found with anxiety scores. Patients with PD also demonstrated right amygdala structural disconnection with less structural connectivity of the right amygdala with the cerebellum and thalamus but increased covariance with bilateral temporal cortices compared with controls. Age‐related grey matter change was also increased in PD preferentially in the limbic system. In conclusion, detailed brain morphometry in a large group of early PD highlights predominant limbic grey matter deficits with stronger age associations compared with controls and associated altered structural connectivity pattern. This provides in vivo evidence for early limbic grey matter pathology and structural network changes that may reflect extranigral disease spread in PD. Hum Brain Mapp 38:3566–3578, 2017. © 2017 The Authors Human Brain Mapping Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effects of Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies Preschool Program on teacher–children relationships and children's social competence in Turkey
Authors: Bilir Seyhan Gamze , Ocak Karabay Sakire , Arda Tuncdemir Tugce B. , Greenberg Mark T. , Domitrovich Celene
Published: May 2017

This quasi‐experimental study examined the effects of the Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies (PATHS) Preschool Program on the outcomes of children's social‐emotional competence, perceived relationships between teacher and children and teachers' ability to create a positive classroom atmosphere. Two hundred and eighty five children (48–72 months) and teachers in Izmir participated in the intervention, and 280 children (48–72 months) and teachers participated as comparison group. Intervention teachers implemented PATHS in their classrooms. For data triangulation, multiple sources of data were collected in the study. Classrooms were observed using two different scales. Teacher rated students using another two different scales. Children were assessed with an interview to evaluate their perceptions of relationships. Intervention group teachers reported greater improvement of children's social‐emotional skills, interpersonal relationship skills and emotion regulation. Furthermore, when observed intervention group children showed higher levels of pro‐social behaviour, increased levels of compliance, better problem solving skills and more positive feelings. Intervention group children also described their relationships with their teachers as significantly more positively. Finally, intervention group teachers perceived more dependency in their relationships with children.
Quantitative comparison of 3D third harmonic generation and fluorescence microscopy images
Authors: Zhang Zhiqing , Kuzmin Nikolay V. , Groot Marie Louise , de Munck Jan C.
Published: May 2017

Third harmonic generation (THG) microscopy is a label‐free imaging technique that shows great potential for rapid pathology of brain tissue during brain tumor surgery. However, the interpretation of THG brain images should be quantitatively linked to images of more standard imaging techniques, which so far has been done qualitatively only. We establish here such a quantitative link between THG images of mouse brain tissue and all‐nuclei‐highlighted fluorescence images, acquired simultaneously from the same tissue area. For quantitative comparison of a substantial pair of images, we present here a segmentation workflow that is applicable for both THG and fluorescence images, with a precision of 91.3 % and 95.8 % achieved respectively. We find that the correspondence between the main features of the two imaging modalities amounts to 88.9 %, providing quantitative evidence of the interpretation of dark holes as brain cells. Moreover, 80 % bright objects in THG images overlap with nuclei highlighted in the fluorescence images, and they are 2 times smaller than the dark holes, showing that cells of different morphologies can be recognized in THG images. We expect that the described quantitative comparison is applicable to other types of brain tissue and with more specific staining experiments for cell type identification.

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Optical assessment of changes in mechanical and chemical properties of adipose tissue in diet‐induced obese rats
Authors: Troyanova‐Wood Maria , Gobbell Cassidy , Meng Zhaokai , Gashev Anatoliy A. , Yakovlev Vladislav V.
Published: May 2017

Obesity is becoming a leading cause of health problems world‐wide. Obesity and overweight are associated with the structural and chemical changes in tissues; however, few methods exist that allow for concurrent measurement of these changes. Using Brillouin and Raman microspectroscopy, both the mechanical and chemical differences can be assessed simultaneously. We hypothesized that Brillouin spectroscopy can measure the adipose tissues’ stiffness, which increases in obesity. Samples of brown and white adipose tissues obtained from control and diet‐induced obese adult rats were analyzed. The results show that both adipose tissues of the obese group exhibit a greater high‐frequency longitudinal elastic modulus than the control samples, and that the brown fat is generally stiffer than white adipose. The Raman spectra indicate that the lipids’ accumulation in adipose tissue outpaces the fibrosis, and that the high‐fat diet has a greater effect on the brown adipose than the white fat. Overall, the powerful combination of Brillouin and Raman microspectroscopies successfully assessed both the mechanical properties and chemical composition of adipose tissue simultaneously for the first time. The results indicate that the adipose tissue experiences an obesity‐induced increase in stiffness and lipid content, with the brown adipose tissue undergoing a more pronounced change compared to white adipose.
Rapid, label‐free identification of cerebellar structures using multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Wang Shu , Chen Xiuqiang , Wu Weilin , Chen Zhida , Du Huiping , Wang Xingfu , Fu Yu Vincent , Hu Liwen , Chen Jianxin
Published: May 2017

The cerebellum is the prominent laminar structure of the mammalian brain that has been implicated in various psychiatric and neurological diseases. Although clinical brain imaging techniques have provided precise anatomic images of cerebellar structures, a definitive diagnosis still requires adequate resolution to identify individual layers in cerebellar cortex, the extent of tumor, even requires the histological tissue examination during surgical procedures. In this study, multiphoton microscopy (MPM), based on second harmonic generation (SHG) and two‐photon excited fluorescence (TPEF), was perform on the rat cerebellar structures and pathology with the combination of image analysis methods. Results show that MPM can reveal the cerebellar vermis, hemispheres, medulla, and ventricle, as well as axon bundles, Purkinje cells, capillaries, and the pia mater of the cerebellum. Together with custom‐developed image processing algorithms, MPM could further differentiate between the gray and white matter, as well as evaluate the Purkinje cell layer, identify the cerebellar tumor boundary, and distinguish between the tumor core and peritumor regions. Our results establish a direct visualization and rapid assessment approach for the cerebellar structures, as well as suggest the feasibility of in vivo multiphoton microendoscopes and fiberscopes as clinical tools for neuropathological diagnoses.
Optofluidic organization and transport of cell chain
Authors: Liu Xiaoshuai , Huang Jianbin , Li Yuchao , Zhang Yao , Li Baojun
Published: May 2017

Controllable organization and transport of cell chain in a fluid, which is of great importance in biological and medical fields, have attracted increasing attentions in recent years. Here we demonstrate an optofluidic strategy, by implanting the microfluidic technique with a large‐tapered‐angle fiber probe (LTAP), to organize and transport a cell chain in a noncontact and noninvasive manner. After a laser beam at 980‐nm wavelength launched into LTAP, the E. coli cells were continuously trapped and then arranged into a cell chain one after another. The chain can be transported by adjusting the magnitudes of optical force and flow drag force. The proposed technique can also be applied for the eukaryotic cells (e. g., yeast cell) and human red blood cells (RBCs). Experiment results were interpreted by the numerical simulation, and the stiffness of cell chain was also discussed.
Alzheimer mouse brain tissue measured by time resolved fluorescence spectroscopy using single‐ and multi‐photon excitation of label free native molecules
Authors: Das Bidyut , Shi Lingyan , Budansky Yury , Rodriguez‐Contreras Adrian , Alfano Robert
Published: May 2017

Time resolved spectroscopic measurements with single‐photon and multi‐photon excitation of native molecules were performed ex vivo on brain tissues from an Alzheimer's disease (AD) and a wild type (WT) mouse model using a streak camera. The fluorescence decay times of native NADH and FAD show a longer relaxation time in AD than in WT tissue, suggesting less non‐radiative processes in AD. The longer emission time of AD may be attributed to the coupling of the key native building block molecules to the amyloid‐tau and/or to the caging of the native fluorophores by the deposition of amyloid‐beta or tau plaques and neurofibrillary tangles that affect the local non‐radiative interactions.

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Photobiomodulation leads to enhanced radiosensitivity through induction of apoptosis and autophagy in human cervical cancer cells
Authors: Djavid Gholamreza Esmaeeli , Bigdeli Bahareh , Goliaei Bahram , Nikoofar Alireza , Hamblin Michael R
Published: May 2017

The radiomodulatory effect of photobiomodulation (PBM) has recently been studied in cancer cells. The aim of this study was to investigate cellular mechanisms involved in the X‐ray radiosensitivity of HeLa cells pre‐exposed to PBM. HeLa cells were irradiated with 685 nm laser at different energy densities prior to X‐ray ionizing radiation. After irradiation, clonogenic cell survival, cell death due to apoptosis and autophagy were determined. Levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA damage and, cell cycle distribution after PBM were measured. PBM at different energy densities (5–20 J/cm2) was not cytotoxic. However, HeLa cells pre‐exposed to 20 J/cm2 showed enhanced inhibition of colony formation following ionizing radiation. Enhanced radiosensitivity was due to increased oxidative stress, DNA damage, and radiation‐induced apoptosis and autophagy. These results suggest that 685 nm PBM at a higher energy density could possibly be a promising radiosensitizing agent in cervical cancer, to decrease the radiation dose delivered, and therefore prevent the side‐effects that are associated with cancer radiotherapy.
Regulation of Histone Acetylation on Expression Profiles of Potassium Channels During Cardiomyocyte Differentiation From Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Wang Duo , Liu Chang , Li Zhigang , Wang Yumei , Wang Wenjing , Wu Xiujuan , Wang Kang , Miao Wei , Li Li , Peng Luying
Published: May 2017

The cardiomyocyte differentiation from mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) is a dynamic and complex process that involved in the precision regulation of histone acetylation. The formation of action potential (AP) in mature cardiomyocytes is based on the expression pattern of Na+, Ca2+, and K+ ion channels, in which the slow delayed rectifier potassium current (IKs), the rapid delayed rectifier potassium current (IKr) and the inwardly rectifying Kir current (IK1) mainly contribute to repolarization for AP in different species. However, the expression status of potassium channels conducted IKs, IKr, and IK1 in cardiomyocyte differentiation are not fully defined. Here, we investigated the expression pattern of the slow delayed rectifier potassium channel and the rapid delayed rectifier potassium channel using a model of mouse cardiomyocyte differentiation under different conditions of histone acetylation. We found that expression levels of both the delayed rectifier potassium channel and the inwardly rectifying potassium channel were more sensitive to histone hyperacetylation during differentiation from mESCs into cardiomyocytes. Especially, histone H4 hyperacetylation induced by Class I HDACs inhibitors promoted the expression profiles of potassium channels (Kcnj2, Kcnj3, Kcnj5, Kcnj11, and Kcnh2) in the process. Our results provide a clue for expression status of potassium channels which may be essential to forming functional cardiomyocyte in the cardiac lineage commitment of mESC. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4460–4467, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Measuring Kinase Activity—A Global Challenge
Authors: Cann Marissa L. , McDonald Ian M. , East Michael P. , Johnson Gary L. , Graves Lee M.
Published: May 2017

The kinase enzymes within a cell, known collectively as the kinome, play crucial roles in many signaling pathways, including survival, motility, differentiation, stress response, and many more. Aberrant signaling through kinase pathways is often linked to cancer, among other diseases. A major area of scientific research involves understanding the relationships between kinases, their targets, and how the kinome adapts to perturbations of the cellular system. This review will discuss many of the current and developing methods for studying kinase activity, and evaluate their applications, advantages, and disadvantages. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3595–3606, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cellular Migration Ability Is Modulated by Extracellular Purines in Ovarian Carcinoma SKOV‐3 Cells
Authors: Martínez‐Ramírez A.S. , Díaz‐Muñoz M. , Battastini A.M. , Campos‐Contreras A. , Olvera A. , Bergamin L. , Glaser T. , Jacintho Moritz C.E. , Ulrich H. , Vázquez‐Cuevas F.G.
Published: May 2017

Extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides have emerged as important elements regulating tissue homeostasis. Acting through specific receptors, have the ability to control gene expression patterns to direct cellular fate. We observed that SKOV‐3 cells express the ectonucleotidases: ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase 1 (ENPP1), ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase (NT5E), and liver alkaline phosphatase (ALPL). Strikingly, in pulse and chase experiments supplemented with ATP, SKOV‐3 cells exhibited low catabolic efficiency in the conversion of ADP into AMP, but they were efficient in converting AMP into adenosine. Since these cells release ATP, we proposed that the conversion of ADP into AMP is a regulatory node associated with the migratory ability and the mesenchymal characteristics shown by SKOV‐3 cells under basal conditions. The landscape of gene expression profiles of SKOV‐3 cell cultures treated with apyrase or adenosine demonstrated similarities (e.g., decrease FGF16 transcript) and differences (e.g., the negative regulation of Wnt 2, and 10B by adenosine). Thus, in SKOV‐3 we analyzed the migratory ability and the expression of epithelium to mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers in response to apyrase. Apyrase‐treatment favored the epithelial‐like phenotype, as revealed by the re‐location of E‐cadherin to the cell to cell junctions. Pharmacological approaches strongly suggested that the effect of Apyrase involved the accumulation of extracellular adenosine; this notion was strengthened when the incubation of the SKOV‐3 cell with α,β‐methylene ADP (CD73 inhibitor) or adenosine deaminase was sufficient to abolish the effect of apyrase on cell migration. Overall, adenosine signaling is a fine tune mechanism in the control of cell phenotype in cancer. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4468–4478, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Picroside II Inhibits RANKL‐Mediated Osteoclastogenesis by Attenuating the NF‐κB and MAPKs Signaling Pathway In Vitro and Prevents Bone Loss in Lipopolysaccharide Treatment Mice
Authors: Yang Xiaobin , Gao Wenjie , Wang Biao , Wang Xiaodong , Guo Hua , Xiao Yuan , Kong Lingbo , Hao Dingjun
Published: May 2017

Picroside II, one of the major components isolated from the seed of natural plant picrorhiza, is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. The present study was performed to define effects of picroside II on nuclear factor‐kappaB ligand (RANKL)‐stimulated osteoclast differentiation in vitro and on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced bone loss in vivo. The bone marrow cells (BMMs) were harvested and induced with RANKL followed by treatment with picroside II at several doses, and the differentiation of osteoclasts from these cells was evaluated by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and resorption pit formation assay. The effects of picroside II on osteoclastogenesis were studied by examining RANKL‐induced osteoclast F‐actin ring formation and osteoclast bone resorption. Moreover, we explored the mechanisms of these downregulation effects by performed Western blotting and quantitative RT‐PCR examination. Results demonstrated picroside II strongly inhibited RANKL‐induced osteoclast formation when added during the early stage of BMMs cultures, suggesting that it acts on osteoclast precursors to inhibit RANKL/RANK signaling. Moreover, picroside II markedly decreased the phosphorylation of p38, ERK, JNK, p65, and I‐κB degradation, and significantly suppressed c‐Fos and nuclear factor of activated T‐cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1), both the key transcription factors during osteoclastogenesis. Furthermore, in vivo studies verified the bone protection effects of picroside II. These results collectively suggested that picroside II acted as an anti‐resorption agent by blocking osteoclast activation. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4479–4486, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surface functionalized magnetic nanoparticles shift cell behavior with on/off magnetic fields
Authors: Jeon Seongbeom , Subbiah Ramesh , Bonaedy Taufik , Van Seyoung , Park Kwideok , Yun Kyusik
Published: May 2017

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are used as contrast agents and targeted drug delivery systems (TDDS) due to their favorable size, surface charge, and magnetic properties. Unfortunately, the toxicity associated with MNPs limits their biological applications. Surface functionalization of MNPs with selective polymers alters the surface chemistry to impart better biocompatibility. We report the preparation of surface functionalized MNPs using iron oxide NPs (MNPs), poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA), and sodium alginate via co‐precipitation, emulsification, and electro‐spraying, respectively. The NPs are in the nanosize range and negatively charged. Morphological and structural analyses affirm the surface functionalized nanostructure of the NPs. The surface functionalized MNPs are biocompatible, and demonstrate enhanced intracellular delivery under an applied magnetic field (H), which evinces the targeting ability of MNPs. After NP treatment, the physico‐mechanical properties of fibroblasts are decided by the selective MNP uptake under “on” or “off” magnetic field conditions. We envision potential use of biocompatible surface functionalized MNP for intracellular‐, targeted‐DDS, imaging, and for investigating cellular mechanics.
ABC of multifaceted dystrophin glycoprotein complex (DGC)
Authors: Bhat Hina F. , Mir Saima S. , Dar Khalid B. , Bhat Zuhaib F. , Shah Riaz A. , Ganai Nazir A.
Published: May 2017

Dystrophin protein in association with several other cellular proteins and glycoproteins leads to the formation of a large multifaceted protein complex at the cell membrane referred to as dystrophin glycoprotein complex (DGC), that serves distinct functions in cell signaling and maintaining the membrane stability as well as integrity. In accordance with this, several findings suggest exquisite role of DGC in signaling pathways associated with cell development and/or maintenance of homeostasis. In the present review, we summarize the established facts about the various components of this complex with emphasis on recent insights into specific contribution of the DGC in cell signaling at the membrane. We have also discussed the recent advances made in exploring the molecular associations of DGC components within the cells and the functional implications of these interactions. Our review would help to comprehend the composition, role, and functioning of DGC and may lead to a deeper understanding of its role in several human diseases.
Reducing the mortality rate of hepatitis and liver cancer in Japan
Authors: Iwane Shinji , Oeda Satoshi , Eguchi Yuichiro
Published: May 2017

The Basic Act on Hepatitis Countermeasures issued in 2009 states the comprehensive measures that can be taken against viral hepatitis as well as the responsibility that the national government, local governments, health insurance provides, physicians, and citizens should take in these measures, thereby organically facilitating the construction of a hepatitis management system in Japan. In addition, the Committee for the Clinical Management of Hepatitis has established branches in each prefecture to create a hepatitis management network for public hepatitis screening facilities, primary care physicians, medical institutions specializing in hepatitis, and primary hospitals for cooperative medical care of liver diseases to address regional hepatitis‐related issues.
The comprehensive role of general physicians is very important in the chronic phase of a disaster area: Beyond and after the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Hata Toshihiko
Published: May 2017

The Great East Japan Earthquake was a major earthquake, one of the largest (Magnitude 9.0) in Japan since 1900. 18 997 human lives were lost in the subsequent tsunami around the Sanriku coast of eastern Japan. Ishinomaki City, which was close to the epicenter, is one of the greatest locations that experienced of the greatest loss of human life: 3819 people. The Ishinomaki Red Cross Hospital (IRCH), which is the main trunk hospital of the Ishinomaki medical sphere, moved to a hill away from the Pacific Ocean in order to avoid future tsunami 5 years prior to the Great East Japan Earthquake. IRCH was therefore nearly intact and its functions were maintained after the Great East Japan Earthquake. Other neighboring medical facilities were in a catastrophic state; for emergency, patients were all concentrated at the IRCH, and the medical staff of IRCH became exhausted. In response, the Japanese Red Cross Society collected and transported physicians, nurses, pharmacists, medical engineers, and medical clerks, to IRCH from Red Cross hospitals across the country during the period of April to August 2011. The dispatched medical personnel operated a makeshift clinic on a rotating basis autonomously in the hospital to support the IRCH. In this temporary clinic, the primary and secondary emergency staff conducted the center's general practice.
Safety and feasibility of liver resection with continued antiplatelet therapy using aspirin
Authors: Monden Kazuteru , Sadamori Hiroshi , Hioki Masayoshi , Ohno Satoshi , Saneto Hiromi , Ueki Toru , Yabushita Kazuhisa , Ono Kazumi , Sakaguchi Kousaku , Takakura Norihisa
Published: May 2017

Background

Aspirin is widely used for the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke and cardiovascular disease. Perioperative aspirin may decrease thrombotic morbidity, but may also increase hemorrhagic morbidity. In particular, liver resection carries risks of bleeding, leading to higher risks of hemorrhagic morbidity. Our institution has continued aspirin therapy perioperatively in patients undergoing liver resection. This study examined the safety and feasibility of liver resection while continuing aspirin.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 378 patients who underwent liver resection between January 2010 and January 2016. Patients were grouped according to preoperative aspirin prescription: patients with aspirin therapy (aspirin users, n = 31); and patients without use of aspirin (aspirin non‐users, n = 347).

Results

Aspirin users were significantly older (P < 0.001), with a higher proportion of males (P < 0.001) and higher frequencies of hypertension (P  = 0.004) and diabetes mellitus (P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in intraoperative parameters. Although the frequency of major morbidity tended to be higher among aspirin users than among aspirin non‐users, no significant difference was identified. No postoperative hemorrhage was seen among aspirin users.

Conclusions

Liver resection can be safely performed while continuing aspirin therapy without increasing hemorrhagic morbidity. Our results suggest that interruption of aspirin therapy is unnecessary for patients undergoing liver resection.
The vicious circle of hypometabolism in neurodegenerative diseases: Ways and mechanisms of metabolic correction
Authors: Zilberter Yuri , Zilberter Misha
Published: May 2017

Hypometabolism, characterized by decreased brain glucose consumption, is a common feature of many neurodegenerative diseases. Initial hypometabolic brain state, created by characteristic risk factors, may predispose the brain to acquired epilepsy and sporadic Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, which are the focus of this review. Analysis of available data suggests that deficient glucose metabolism is likely a primary initiating factor for these diseases, and that resulting neuronal dysfunction further promotes the metabolic imbalance, establishing an effective positive feedback loop and a downward spiral of disease progression. Therefore, metabolic correction leading to the normalization of abnormalities in glucose metabolism may be an efficient tool to treat the neurological disorders by counteracting their primary pathological mechanisms. Published and preliminary experimental results on this approach for treating Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy models support the efficacy of metabolic correction, confirming the highly promising nature of the strategy. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Yield cultivation of magnetotactic bacteria and magnetosomes: A review
Authors: Ali Imran , Peng Changsheng , Khan Zahid M. , Naz Iffat
Published: May 2017

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) have started to be employed for the biosynthesis of magnetic nanoparticles, due to the rapidly increasing demand for nanoparticles in biomedical, biotechnology and environmental protection. MBT are the group of prokaryotes that have the ability to produce bio‐magnetic minerals or bio‐magnetic crystals of either magnetite (Fe3O4) or greigite (Fe3S4) in numerous shapes and size ranges, known as magnetosomes (MS). MS compel MTB to respond to the applied external magnetic field. However, it is extremely difficult to grow MTB and produce high yield of MS under artificial environmental conditions, thus creating a major hurdle to relocate MTB technology from laboratory scale to industrial or commercial level. Therefore, to best of our knowledge this review is the first attempt to highlight existing research developments about the laboratory scale and mass production of MS by MTB. Moreover, the optimum culture media and environmental conditions used for the cultivation of MTB were also considered. Finally, future research is encouraged for the improvement of MS yield which will result in the development of advanced nanotechnology/magnetotechnology.
The role of dose administration aids in medication management for older people
Authors: Etty‐Leal Mary G.
Published: May 2017

While medicine use in the older population is high, adherence to prescribed regimens is often suboptimal. Older people may be unintentionally non‐adherent due to difficulties managing and manipulating medicines. Dose administration aids are medicine packaging systems designed to reduce unintentional non‐adherence by simplifying management of oral medicines and enabling people to see if they have taken their medicines. Evidence suggests dose administration aids can improve medicine adherence but the size of this benefit is unclear and there is little evidence from controlled trials in older people or people taking multiple medicines. There is no conclusive evidence that they improve health outcomes. Use of an aid is limited to medicines suitable and stable for repackaging. Other limitations include reduced user medicine knowledge and autonomy, risk of filling discrepancies and incorrect use, and increased complexity at transitions of care. Upon consideration of a dose administration aid, a comprehensive assessment of the patient's medication management and a review of their medicines is required. Dose administration aids are best combined with other medication management strategies, such as medicine lists and education, and are most effective in people who are motivated to take their medicines and who have the required physical and cognitive capacity to use an aid.
Oncoplastic breast surgery: Achieving oncological and aesthetic outcomes
Authors: van Paridon Maaike W. , Kamali Parisa , Paul Marek A. , Wu Winona , Ibrahim Ahmed M.S. , Kansal Kari J. , Houlihan Mary Jane , Morris Donald J. , Lee Bernard T. , Lin Samuel J. , Sharma Ranjna
Published: May 2017

Background and Objectives

Oncoplastic reconstruction allows more patients to become candidates for breast‐conserving surgery (BCS). Oncologic resection of a breast lesion is combined with plastic surgical techniques to improve aesthetic results. Choosing the best oncoplastic method is essential to optimize outcomes, improve cosmesis, and minimize postoperative complications. The aim of this study is to present a treatment algorithm incorporating oncoplastic techniques based on diagnosis, tumor size, tumor location, and breast size and shape.

Methods

A retrospective pilot study of a prospectively collected database was conducted in patients undergoing immediate oncoplastic surgery from 2010 to 2015 at our institution. Oncoplastic surgical techniques were defined as complex layered closure, local tissue rearrangement, pedicled flap, mastopexy, bilateral reduction, or implant placement. Clinical, demographic, and histopathologic data were extracted from electronic patient records. Patient satisfaction was measured by the BREAST‐Q questionnaire.

Results

A total of 42 women and 46 breasts were included. An algorithm was formulated to assist in selecting an optimal oncoplastic reconstruction plan after BCS. Additionally, patient satisfaction with good aesthetic results was reported.

Conclusion

In this study, the authors present a reconstructive algorithm describing various oncoplastic approaches aimed to provide a guideline in clinical practice when employing oncoplastic surgery.
External radiation or ablation for solitary hepatocellular carcinoma: A survival analysis of the SEER database
Authors: Berger Nicholas G. , Tanious Michael N. , Hammad Abdulrahman Y. , Miura John T. , Mogal Harveshp , Clarke Callisia N. , Christians Kathleen K. , Tsai Susan , Gamblin T. Clark
Published: May 2017

Background and Objectives

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients are often not candidates for resection. This study hypothesized that external beam radiation (XRT) could be equally effective compared to ablation therapy (AT) for selected HCC patients.

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was used to identify HCC patients (2004‐2012) undergoing XRT or AT for solitary HCC lesions. Propensity score modeling was utilized to adjust for baseline characteristics.

Results

Propensity matching identified 784 patients: 157 (20%) XRT and 627 (80%) AT. Median OS for XRT and AT was 22, and 32 months (P < 0.001), respectively. AT demonstrated improved OS for tumors 3‐5 cm (30 vs 16 m, P < 0.001) and >5 cm (25 vs 9 m, P < 0.001). Similar survival was found in patients with tumor size <3 cm (37 vs 47 m P = 0.508). Following multivariate analyses, XRT was associated with an increased hazard ratio (HR = 1.64, P < 0.001). Elevated AFP at diagnosis (HR = 1.54, P = 0.001) and tumor size >3 were identified as negative predictors of survival.

Conclusions

Similar survival for solitary HCC lesions <3 cm exists between XRT and AT. However, AT demonstrates improved survival rates compared to XRT for lesions >3 cm. This 3 cm reference point may serve as a valuable metric to guide treatment decisions and future investigations.
Methodological biases in estimates of macroalgal macromolecular composition
Authors: Fiset Catherine , Liefer Justin , Irwin Andrew J. , Finkel Zoe V.
Published: May 2017

Interest surrounding the use of macroalgae macromolecules for food products, biofuels, or other industrial applications is growing. As researchers search for macroalgae with especially high protein, lipid, carbohydrate or fibre content, the demand for a suite of standardized and unbiased methods for quantifying macroalgae macromolecules increases. Using data from available scientific literature, we evaluated the biases of the major methods used to determine macroalgal macromolecular content, as well as the sample drying methods employed. We found that drying at room temperature prior to analysis resulted in the highest estimates of protein and carbohydrate, and that freeze‐drying provided the highest estimates of lipid. Using nitrogen content and the standard conversion factor to calculate protein in macroalgae (N × 6.25 method) overestimates protein content compared to protein assays such as the Bradford () or Lowry () assays. The Bligh and Dyer () lipid extraction method was found to have a yield nearly two‐fold higher than other standard methods. For carbohydrates, the By Difference and Prosky et al. () methods provide estimates up to five‐fold higher than other common methods used to determine carbohydrate and fibre. Based on these results we recommend using protein assays as opposed to nitrogen content assays to determine protein content, the Bligh and Dyer lipid extraction method for lipids, and the By Difference and Prosky method for carbohydrate and fibre, respectively.
Multiple same day cryolipolysis treatments for the reduction of subcutaneous fat are safe and do not affect serum lipid levels or liver function tests
Authors: Klein Kenneth B. , Bachelor Eric P. , Becker Edward V. , Bowes Leyda E.
Published: May 2017

Objective

Cryolipolysis is a safe and effective non‐surgical procedure for reducing subcutaneous fat. It spares adjacent structures, is associated with few adverse events, and is well‐tolerated by patients. Previous studies involving one or two simultaneous treatment sites have shown no effect on serum lipid levels or liver tests. The purpose of this study was to determine whether multiple same day treatments (abdomen plus both flanks) result in changes in these blood tests, and is safe.

Study Design

Thirty‐five adult males and females underwent same‐day cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting System, ZELTIQ Aesthetics) of the lower abdomen and flanks for reduction of subcutaneous fat. Serum lipids and liver tests were measured prior to treatment and at 1, 4, and 12 weeks post‐treatment. Expected treatment side‐effects were assessed immediately post‐treatment and at the 12‐week follow‐up visit. Adverse events were also monitored.

Methods

Treatment consisted of one cycle to the lower abdomen using a large vacuum applicator and simultaneous treatment of both flanks, one cycle each, with medium vacuum applicators .Time between the abdomen and flanks procedures was not to exceed 30 minutes.

Results

The procedures were well‐tolerated by patients; expected treatment effects were in general mild or moderate, and resolved without intervention. There were no clinically meaningful changes from baseline to any subsequent time point in any serum lipid test. This was also true for all liver tests. There were no treatment‐related adverse events.

Conclusion

Multiple cycle, same day cryolipolysis treatment of the lower abdomen and both flanks is well‐tolerated and safe. It does not lead to changes in serum lipids or liver tests at any of the measured time points following the procedure. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:640–644, 2017. © 2017 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
An Injectable System for Local and Sustained Release of Antimicrobial Agents in the Periodontal Pocket
Authors: Morelli Laura , Cappelluti Martino Alfredo , Ricotti Leonardo , Lenardi Cristina , Gerges Irini
Published: May 2017

Periodontitis treatments usually require local administration of antimicrobial drugs with the aim to reduce the bacterial load inside the periodontal pocket. Effective pharmaceutical treatments may require sustained local drug release for several days in the site of interest. Currently available solutions are still not able to fulfill the clinical need for high‐quality treatments, mainly in terms of release profiles and patients' comfort. This work aims to fill this gap through the development of an in situ gelling system, capable to achieve controlled and sustained release of antimicrobial agents for medium‐to‐long‐term treatments. The system is composed of micrometer‐sized β‐cyclodextrin‐based hydrogel (bCD‐Jef‐MPs), featured by a strong hydrophilic character, suspended in a synthetic block‐co‐polymer solution (Poloxamer 407), which is capable to undergo rapid thermally induced sol–gel phase transition at body temperature. The chemical structure of bCD‐Jef‐MPs was confirmed by cross‐correlating data from Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, swelling test, and degradation kinetics. The thermally induced sol–gel phase transition is demonstrated by rheometric tests. The effectiveness of the described system to achieve sustained release of antimicrobial agents is demonstrated in vitro, using chlorhexidine digluconate as a drug model. The results achieved in this work disclose the potential of the mentioned system in effectively treating periodontitis lesions.

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A Segregation and Deprotection Approach for Hydrophilic Surfaces Using Amphiphilic Block Copolymers Possessing Polystyrene and Poly[(tri(ethylene glycol) methacrylate)] Segments
Authors: Seki Akiko , Ishizone Takashi , Oyane Ayako , Yokoyama Hideaki
Published: May 2017

This paper fabricates spontaneously formed hydrophilic polymer brushes composed of poly[(tri(ethylene glycol) methacrylate)] (POH3MA) through spontaneous surface segregation of polystyrene‐block‐poly[(tri(ethylene glycol) tert‐butyldimethylsilyl ether methacrylate)] (PS‐b‐PSi3MA) in a polystyrene (PS) matrix followed by deprotection of PSi3MA to POH3MA at the PS/water interface. When protected, the tert‐butyl‐terminated hydrophilic PSi3MA blocks segregate at the air or vacuum surface at elevated temperatures. The surface‐segregated structures can be fixed by cooling to room temperature followed by deprotection of the PSi3MA groups to provide surfaces fully covered by unprotected POH3MA, with OH groups on glassy robust PS. Such hydrophilic POH3MA brushes prevent the adsorption of human serum albumin and are expected to be useful in antifouling surfaces.

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Fluorophobic Effect Driven Self‐Organization of Semifluorinated Alkyl Chain Substituted Conjugated Polymer
Authors: Heo Youn‐Jung , Kim Jihong , Jeong Hyung‐Gu , Jang Soo‐Young , Hwang Hansu , Kim Yeong‐A , Lim Dae‐Hee , Kim Dong‐Yu
Published: May 2017

This paper reports on the effect of a semifluorinated alkyl side chain for achieving a self‐organized nanostructure to facilitate the efficient charge carrier transport. So far, semifluorinated alkyl side chains have rarely been introduced into semiconducting polymers, despite their interesting properties such as hydrophobicity, thermal stability, and solvent resistance, as well as self‐organization. Herein, this study synthesizes the semifluorinated alkyl chain introduced poly(3‐dodecylthiophene), SFA‐P3DT, and demonstrates that self‐organization of SFA‐P3DT is intensely induced in nonfluorous solvent by the so‐called fluorophobic effect, resulting in the formation of nanofibrillar structure. In presence of the semifluorinated alkyl side chain, organic thin film transistor (OTFT) devices exhibit the improved charge carrier mobility than that of poly(3‐dodecylthiophene) with hydrocarbon alkyl chain. Moreover, higher charge carrier mobility can be obtained from the nonfluorous solvent, in comparison to the fluorous solvent, confirming the crucial role of fluorophobic effect. These observations suggest that the introduction of semifluorinated alkyl chains into a conjugated polymer may enhance the performance of OTFTs through the development of a well‐ordered nanostructure via self‐organization by fluorophobic effect, which, in turn, facilitates the efficient charge carrier transport.

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The ∞‐Besov capacity problem
Authors: Milman M. , Xiao J.
Published: May 2017

A theory of ∞‐Besov capacities is developed and several applications are provided. In particular, we solve an open problem in the theory of limits of the ∞‐Besov semi‐norms, we obtain new restriction‐extension inequalities, and we characterize the pointwise multipliers acting on the ∞‐Besov spaces.
Hospitalizations of Children with Huntington's Disease in the United States
Authors: Mendizabal Adys , Ngo Vu Anh‐Thu , Thibault Dylan , Gonzalez‐Alegre Pedro , Willis Allison
Published: May 2017

Background

Juvenile Huntington's disease (JHD) is a childhood‐onset neurodegenerative disorder. Although it is caused by the same pathologic expansion of CGA repeats as adult‐onset Huntington's disease, JHD has distinct clinical features. Most clinical research in HD focuses in the adult‐onset disease; therefore, little is known about acute care outcomes for patients with JHD.

Methods

The Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) was used to examine hospitalizations of children with JHD and to determine the diagnoses and procedures associated with inpatient care for JHD. Regression models were built to examine acute care outcomes, including death, length of stay, and disposition at discharge in patients with JHD compared with patients in the general KID data.

Results

The proportion of JHD cases among hospitalized children was 1.23 per 100,000 KID inpatient stays. Seizures/convulsions (58.5%) and psychiatric conditions (26.1%) were the most common primary or secondary diagnoses among JHD patient hospitalizations. The most common procedure was percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement (8.6%). Compared with hospitalizations of the general population, hospitalizations of patients with JHD had a lower odds of discharge to home (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.14–0.37) and an increased likelihood of death (AOR, 8.03; 95% CI, 2.98–21.60) or discharge to a short‐term care facility (AOR, 4.44; 95% CI, 2.59–7.61). A diagnosis of JHD was associated with increased length of stay (7.04 vs. 3.75 days; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Children with JHD have unique acute care patterns. Future studies are needed to determine the extent to which coordinated care may impact inpatient and disposition needs.