bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional Status of Autistic Children and Relationship with Nutritional Awareness of Their Mothers
Authors: Khogali Salih Nadia AbdelRahim , Ibrahim Niama Mirghani , Ahmed Laila Abdelraheem
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND: Autism Spectrum Disorder is prevalent worldwide. Autistic children are vulnerable, their preference in food intake, well established, that may lead to abnormal nutrition status, this study designed to describe nutritional awareness of mothers of autistic children.METHODS: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to determine the nutritional status of autistic children and their mother's awareness in Khartoum state. 67 child aged between 3-18 years were chosen from 12 Centers for children with special needs.Data was collected by questionnaire, which included general information, anthropometric measurements, dietary, and food consumption of children, through case-findings or purposive sampling techniques.RESULTS: The prevalence of autism is higher in males than females, males (77.6%), females (22.4%). Socio-economic status findings showed (65.7%) were from middle class income. Autistic children fathers (74.6%) employed and employed mothers were (28.3%). Nutritional status showed Preschool Females (100%) underweight; while school age males were (44.4%). 94.9% of them consume wheat and other cereal products. Frequent attacks of upper respiratory tract infection occurs in (97%), malaria and worms infestation occurred in (49.3%) and (46.3%) had teeth decay.CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS: Nutrition awareness is essential for mothers of autistic children. It’s recommended that a dietitian should be a member in each center to educate mothers about consumption of recommended food especially in the early childhood for a better outcome through adulthood.
Glaucoma Awareness and Knowledge among Jordanian People
Authors: Al-Zubi Khalid , Sarayrah Fawaz , Al-Awaishah Mahmoud
Published: May 2017

Glaucoma, a preventable condition, is the second leading reason behind blindness globally. The asymptomatic type of glaucoma is the most prevalent type, which explains the late presentation and diagnosis. The objective of the study has been developed to assess the levels of awareness about glaucoma among Jordanian people. This is a national study comprising of 511 subjects, aged 20 years and above. The participants were asked to fill the survey forms after signing the consent to the study. The results of the study revealed that 147 individuals (28.77%) were completely unaware of glaucoma, and 249 individuals (48.73%) had low level of knowledge about glaucoma. 77.5% of the subjects were either unaware or partial level of knowledge about the condition; however, they displayed an acceptable level of awareness. The outcomes among Jordanian people explained the delayed diagnosis of this blinding disease in the country. There is a need of proper educational strategies to educate Jordanian people about glaucoma.
Exploring Determinants of Unprotected Sexual Behaviours Favouring HIV Transmission among Men who Have Sex with Men in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Fauk Nelsensius Klau , Crutzen Rik , Merry Maria Silvia , Putra Sukma , Sigilipoe Mitra Andhini , Mwanri Lillian
Published: May 2017

A qualitative inquiry using individual interviews explored determinants of unprotected sexual behaviours favouring HIV transmission among Men who Have sex with Men (MSM) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The study was conducted in July 2015 with 24 MSM participants recruited using convenience sampling technique. Data were analysed using a qualitative data analysis framework, with the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) employed as the study conceptual framework. Findings were grouped into a reciprocal triadic relationship involving behavioural, personal (cognitive) and environmental determinants. Behavioural determinants comprised having multiple casual sex partners, engagement in group sex and transactional sex practices. Environmental factors associated with unprotected sexual behaviours included influence of unsafe sex from regular partners and lack of access to HIV-related services. Personal (cognitive) determinants favouring unprotected sexual behaviours identified were lack of knowledge of condom and HIV/AIDS, individuals’ expectation of pleasurable sexual intercourse, and low self-efficacy to discuss condom use and HIV status with casual sex partners. As effort to address HIV in MSM in Indonesia is still at its infancy, the findings of the current study are insightful and will inform the development of evidence-based programs in addressing HIV/AIDS problem in MSM populations in Yogyakarta and other similar settings.
The Management Model of Fishery Environment in Bengkalis District, Riau Province
Authors: Rengi Pareng , - Marnis , - Fitri
Published: May 2017

Research purposes are to design management of fisheries environment sustainable in Bengkalis district. This study was conducted in Bengkalis district, in Riau province. This location is situated in a strategic area of the Malacca Strait.This research used survey method. Types of data collected in the form of primary and secondary data. Data analysis techniques used in this research is descriptive analysis, sustainability analysis (Rapfish), stakeholder needs analysis and prospective analysis.The analysis showed the management of fisheries environmental in Bengkalis district is in the bad category level or less sustainable with MDS value of 39.59 overall. Implementation of management strategies to fisheries environmental in Bengkalis district (P) with the interaction scenario between the migration distance (j), Pressure mangrove land (m), level of education relative coastal communities (r), fisheryenvironmental policy (k), cooperation among stakeholders (s).
Application of genetic algorithm in extracting cell dielectric characteristics with electrorotation
Authors: Alizadeh-Haghighi Elnaz , Jafarmadar Samad , Khalilarya Shahram
Published: May 2017

In this study the transformed theory is applied to derive the dielectric characteristics of cells, considering the electrorotation (ER) peak frequency. In current studies, estimations of low frequency, which are credible for the values less than 1 mS/m for medium conductivity, are used to obtain the corresponding permittivity and conductivity of cells. Unlike the presented works, the transformed theory applies the comprehensive statement for corresponding permittivity and conductivity of cells. In the transformed theory, the membrane and interior characteristics could be obtained from the high and the low frequencies of peak ER, for all values of conductivity of medium. Characteristics of cells are obtained via optimization of an equation for the conductivity of medium regarding the peak ER frequency. The optimization process is performed applying genetic algorithm due to its swift adaptation to the problem and faster convergence.
Large Modulation of Charge Carrier Mobility in Doped Nanoporous Organic Transistors
Authors: Zhang Fengjiao , Dai Xiaojuan , Zhu Weikun , Chung Hyunjoong , Diao Ying
Published: May 2017

Molecular doping of organic electronics has shown promise to sensitively modulate important device metrics. One critical challenge is the disruption of structure order upon doping of highly crystalline organic semiconductors, which significantly reduces the charge carrier mobility. This paper demonstrates a new method to achieve large modulation of charge carrier mobility via channel doping without disrupting the molecular ordering. Central to the method is the introduction of nanopores into the organic semiconductor thin films via a simple and robust templated meniscus‐guided coating method. Using this method, the charge carrier mobility of C8‐benzothieno[3,2‐b]benzothiophene transistors is boosted by almost sevenfold. This paper further demonstrates enhanced electron transport by close to an order of magnitude in a diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based donor–acceptor polymer. Combining spectroscopic measurements, density functional theory calculations, and electrical characterizations, the doping mechanism is identified as partial‐charge‐transfer induced trap filling. The nanopores serve to enhance the dopant/organic semiconductor charge transfer reaction by exposing the π‐electrons to the pore wall.
Optochemically Responsive 2D Nanosheets of a 3D Metal–Organic Framework Material
Authors: Chaudhari Abhijeet K. , Kim Ha Jin , Han Intaek , Tan Jin‐Chong
Published: May 2017

Outstanding functional tunability underpinning metal–organic framework (MOF) confers a versatile platform to contrive next‐generation chemical sensors, optoelectronics, energy harvesters, and converters. A rare exemplar of a porous 2D nanosheet material constructed from an extended 3D MOF structure is reported. A rapid supramolecular self‐assembly methodology at ambient conditions to synthesize readily exfoliatable MOF nanosheets, functionalized in situ by adopting the guest@MOF (host) strategy, is developed. Nanoscale confinement of light‐emitting molecules (as functional guest) inside the MOF pores generates unusual combination of optical, electronic, and chemical properties, arising from the strong host–guest coupling effects. Highly promising photonics‐based chemical sensing opened up by the new guest@MOF composite systems is shown. By harnessing host–guest optochemical interactions of functionalized MOF nanosheets, detection of an extensive range of volatile organic compounds and small molecules important for many practical applications has been accomplished.
Tunneling Spintronics across MgO Driven by Double Oxygen Vacancies
Authors: Taudul Beata , Monteblanco Elmer Nahuel , Halisdemir Ufuk , Lacour Daniel , Schleicher Filip , Montaigne François , Beaurepaire Eric , Boukari Samy , Hehn Michel , Alouani Mébarek , Bowen Martin
Published: May 2017

Tunneling spintronic devices are foreseen to play an important role in emerging technologies, from data read‐out and storage to processing, including neuromorphic computing. A counterintuitive suspicion is that double oxygen vacancies within the commonly used MgO barrier underscore the high spintronic performance. Here, how the peculiar electronic properties of these nanoscale objects experimentally enhance spintronic performance is demonstrated. The vacancy's ground state near the Fermi level theoretically promotes enhanced transmission across the barrier of electrons with the Δ1 electronic symmetry that drives high spintronic performance. Annealing the MgO barrier experimentally increases the ratio of double to single oxygen vacancies. This promotes a lower Δ1 barrier height, reduces the Δ5 transmission, and enhances spintronic performance, in agreement with theory. This novel nanoscale paradigm of tunneling spintronics should affect all research that utilizes this low barrier height (e.g., spin transfer torque), help establish an ultimate limit on laterally downscaling these devices, and promote new nanoscale quantum computing concepts.
Self‐Organization of Polymer Additive, Poly(2‐vinylpyridine) via One‐Step Solution Processing to Enhance the Efficiency and Stability of Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Wonho , Jeong Seonju , Lee Changyeon , Han Gibok , Cho Changsoon , Lee Jung‐Yong , Kim Bumjoon J.
Published: May 2017

Interfaces between the photoactive layers and electrodes play critical roles in controlling the performance of optoelectronic devices. Herein, a novel nonconjugated polymer additive (nPA), poly(2‐vinylpyridine) (P2VP), is reported for modifying the interfaces between the bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) and cathode/metal oxide (MO) layers. The P2VP nPA enables remarkably enhanced power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) and ambient stability in different types of polymer solar cells (PSCs). Importantly, interfacial engineering can be achieved during deposition of the P2VP nPA‐containing BHJ active layer via simple, one‐step solution processing. The P2VP nPA has much higher surface energy than the BHJ active components and stronger interaction with the surface of MO, which affords spontaneous vertical phase separation from the BHJ layer on the MO surface by one‐step solution processing. The self‐assembled P2VP layer substantially reduces the work function and surface defect density of MO, thereby minimizing the charge‐extraction barrier and increasing the PCEs of the PSCs significantly, i.e., PTB7‐Th:PC71BM (10.53%→11.14%), PTB7:PC71BM (7.37%→8.67%), and PTB7‐Th:P(NDI2HD‐T) all‐PSCs (5.52%→6.14%). In addition, the lifetimes of the PSCs are greatly improved by the use of the P2VP nPA.
High‐Performance Aqueous Rechargeable Li‐Ni Battery Based on Ni(OH)2/NiOOH Redox Couple with High Voltage
Authors: Zhang Ming , Huang Zheng , Shen Zhongrong , Gong Yingpeng , Chi Bo , Pu Jian , Li Jian
Published: May 2017

New energy storage and conversion systems require large‐scale, cost‐effective, good safety, high reliability, and high energy density. This study demonstrates a low‐cost and safe aqueous rechargeable lithium‐nickel (Li‐Ni) battery with solid state Ni(OH)2/NiOOH redox couple as cathode and hybrid electrolytes separated by a Li‐ion‐conductive solid electrolyte layer. The proposed aqueous rechargeable Li‐Ni battery exhibits an approximately open‐circuit potential of 3.5 V, outperforming the theoretic stable window of water 1.23 V, and its energy density can be 912.6 W h kg‐1, which is much higher than that of state‐of‐the‐art lithium ion batteries. The use of a solid‐state redox couple as cathode with a metallic lithium anode provides another postlithium chemistry for practical energy storage and conversion.
Benchmarking outcomes in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Cytogenetic and molecular diagnostic rates in a retrospective cohort
Authors: Malam Faheem , Hartley Taila , Gillespie Meredith K. , Armour Christine M. , Bariciak Erika , Graham Gail E. , Nikkel Sarah M. , Richer Julie , Sawyer Sarah L. , Boycott Kym M. , Dyment David A.
Published: May 2017

Genetic disease and congenital anomalies continue to be a leading cause of neonate mortality and morbidity. A genetic diagnosis in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) can be a challenge given the associated genetic heterogeneity and early stage of a disease. We set out to evaluate the outcomes of Medical Genetics consultation in the NICU in terms of cytogenetic and molecular diagnostic rates and impact on management. We retrospectively reviewed 132 charts from patients admitted to the NICU who received a Medical Genetics diagnostic evaluation over a 2 year period. Of the 132 patients reviewed, 26% (34/132) received a cytogenetic or molecular diagnosis based on the Medical Genetics diagnostic evaluation; only 10% (13/132) received a diagnosis during their admission. The additional 16% (21 patients) received their diagnosis following NICU discharge, but based on a genetic test initiated during hospital‐stay. Mean time from NICU admission to confirmed diagnosis was 24 days. For those who received a genetic diagnosis, the information was considered beneficial for clinical management in all, and a direct change to medical management occurred for 12% (4/32). For those non‐diagnosed infants seen in out‐patient follow‐up clinic, diagnoses were made in 8% (3/37). The diagnoses made post‐discharge from the NICU comprised a greater number of Mendelian disorders and represent an opportunity to improve genetic care. The adoption of diagnostic tools, such as exome sequencing, used in parallel with traditional approaches will improve rate of diagnoses and will have a significant impact, in particular when the differential diagnosis is broad.
Interprotein Electron Transfer between FeS‐Protein Nanowires and Oxygen‐Tolerant NiFe Hydrogenase
Authors: Rengaraj Saravanan , Haddad Raoudha , Lojou Elisabeth , Duraffourg Nicolas , Holzinger Michael , Le Goff Alan , Forge Vincent
Published: May 2017

Self‐assembled redox protein nanowires have been exploited as efficient electron shuttles for an oxygen‐tolerant hydrogenase. An intra/inter‐protein electron transfer chain has been achieved between the iron‐sulfur centers of rubredoxin and the FeS cluster of [NiFe] hydrogenases. [NiFe] Hydrogenases entrapped in the intricated matrix of metalloprotein nanowires achieve a stable, mediated bioelectrocatalytic oxidation of H2 at low‐overpotential.
Iron‐Catalyzed Intermolecular 1,2‐Difunctionalization of Styrenes and Conjugated Alkenes with Silanes and Nucleophiles
Authors: Yang Yuan , Song Ren‐Jie , Ouyang Xuan‐Hui , Wang Cheng‐Yong , Li Jin‐Heng , Luo Shenglian
Published: May 2017

The first iron‐catalyzed 1,2‐difunctionalization of styrenes and conjugated alkenes with silanes and either N or C, using an oxidative radical strategy, is described. Employing FeCl2and di‐tert‐butyl peroxide allows divergent alkene 1,2‐difunctionalizations, including 1,2‐aminosilylation, 1,2‐arylsilylation, and 1,2‐alkylsilylation, which rely on a wide range of nucleophiles, namely, amines, amides, indoles, pyrroles, and 1,3‐dicarbonyls, thus providing a powerful platform for producing diverse silicon‐containing alkanes.
A Bistable Microelectromechanical System Actuated by Spin‐Crossover Molecules
Authors: Manrique‐Juarez Maria D. , Mathieu Fabrice , Shalabaeva Victoria , Cacheux Jean , Rat Sylvain , Nicu Liviu , Leïchlé Thierry , Salmon Lionel , Molnár Gábor , Bousseksou Azzedine
Published: May 2017

We report on a bistable MEMS device actuated by spin‐crossover molecules. The device consists of a freestanding silicon microcantilever with an integrated piezoresistive detection system, which was coated with a 140 nm thick film of the [Fe(HB(tz)3)2] (tz=1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl) molecular spin‐crossover complex. Switching from the low‐spin to the high‐spin state of the ferrous ions at 338 K led to a reversible upward bending of the cantilever in agreement with the change in the lattice parameters of the complex. The strong mechanical coupling was also evidenced by the decrease of approximately 66 Hz in the resonance frequency in the high‐spin state as well as by the drop in the quality factor around the spin transition.
Sulfation of the Human Cytomegalovirus Protein UL22A Enhances Binding to the Chemokine RANTES
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Sanchez Julie , Stone Martin J. , Payne Richard J.
Published: May 2017

UL22A is an 83 amino acid chemokine‐binding protein produced by human cytomegalovirus that likely assists the virus in dampening the host antiviral response. We proposed that UL22A is sulfated on two tyrosine residues and tested this hypothesis through the chemical synthesis of a small library of differentially sulfated protein variants. The (sulfo)proteins were efficiently prepared using a novel β‐selenoleucine motif to facilitate one‐pot ligation–deselenization chemistry. Tyrosine sulfation of UL22A proved critical for RANTES binding, with the doubly sulfated variant exhibiting an improvement in binding of 2.5 orders of magnitude compared to the unmodified protein.
Zinc‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Allylsilanes by Si−H Bond Insertion of Vinyl Carbenoids Generated from Cyclopropenes
Authors: Mata Sergio , López Luis A. , Vicente Rubén
Published: May 2017

Allylsilanes have long been recognized as valuable building blocks for organic synthesis. A zinc‐catalyzed reaction of cyclopropenes and hydrosilanes provides a convenient route to these versatile unsaturated organosilanes. In this transformation, ZnBr2 serves as an efficient catalyst, allowing the generation of a zinc vinyl carbenoid intermediate, which is subsequently involved in a Si−H bond insertion. The process shows broad scope, and is amenable to substituted and functionalized cyclopropenes or the functionalization of polysiloxanes. Moreover, zinc‐catalyzed carbene insertion into a Ge−H bond is reported for the first time.
Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Intramolecular Cyclopropane Ring Expansion
Authors: Luis‐Barrera Javier , Laina‐Martín Víctor , Rigotti Thomas , Peccati Francesca , Solans‐Monfort Xavier , Sodupe Mariona , Mas‐Ballesté Rubén , Liras Marta , Alemán José
Published: May 2017

Described herein is a new visible‐light photocatalytic strategy for the synthesis of enantioenriched dihydrofurans and cyclopentenes by an intramolecular nitro cyclopropane ring expansion reaction. Mechanistic studies and DFT calculations are used to elucidate the key factors in this new ring expansion reaction, and the need for the nitro group on the cyclopropane.
Carbonyl Activation in Electrophilic Polyene Cyclizations: A Toolbox for the Design of Isoprenoid Libraries
Authors: Minassi Alberto , Pollastro Federica , Chianese Giuseppina , Caprioglio Diego , Taglialatela‐Scafati Orazio , Appendino Giovanni
Published: May 2017

An approach to biogenetically overlooked areas of the isoprenoid chemical space is presented. This strategy is based on the generation of a cationic center in functionalized polyolefins by Lewis acid activation of a carbonyl group, rather than by electrophilic attack at a double bond. Starting from the monocyclic humulane trienone zerumbone, polycyclic sesquiterpenoid skeletons which are either not reported as natural products or biogenetically enigmatic in terms of the isoprenoid rule, were obtained by modulating the Lewis acid catalyst. In the course of these studies, the surprising formation of a strained E‐cyclooctene motif was observed in a cyclization reaction.
Sorption and desorption properties of random copolymer hydrogels of N‐isopropylacrylamide and N‐ethylacrylamide: Effect of monomer composition
Authors: Biswas Chandra Sekhar , Wang Qiao , Du Bing , Stadler Florian J.
Published: May 2017

Random copolymer hydrogels of N‐isopropylacrylamide and N‐ethylacrylamide (NEAM) were prepared using different monomer compositions in 1:1 methanol–water mixtures. The samples were characterized by cononsolvency study in methanol‐water mixtures at various temperatures, swelling properties measurements, scanning electron microscopy. With changing ratio of the monomers in the reaction mixture, the thermal, morphological and swelling properties, varied significantly. The change in the properties with monomer composition variation are interpreted based on the different thermoresponsive characteristics and interactions of gels of N‐isopropylacrylamide and NEAM (homo‐ and copolymer gels) in water and different methanol‐water mixtures, their variable compositions in the synthesis mixtures, and their morphologies. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45176.
Screening of 181 Patients With Antibody Deficiency for Deficiency of Adenosine Deaminase 2 Sheds New Light on the Disease in Adulthood
Authors: Schepp Johanna , Proietti Michele , Frede Natalie , Buchta Mary , Hübscher Katrin , Rojas Restrepo Jessica , Goldacker Sigune , Warnatz Klaus , Pachlopnik Schmid Jana , Duppenthaler Andrea , Lougaris Vassilios , Uriarte Ignacio , Kelly Susan , Hershfield Michael , Grimbacher Bodo
Published: May 2017

Objective

We aimed to test the relevance of deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 (DADA2) in patients with antibody deficiency and describe the clinical picture of the disease in adulthood.

Methods

We screened for DADA2 in a cohort of 181 patients with antibody deficiency with or without vascular lesions using next‐generation sequencing and targeted Sanger sequencing. All mutations were confirmed by determining the ADA2 enzymatic activity levels in dried plasma spots. Clinical data and laboratory values were collected in a standardized format.

Results

Following the diagnosis of 2 siblings in the index family, we identified 9 additional affected patients with compound heterozygous or homozygous CECR1 mutations, containing 6 novel and 4 previously published mutations. The patients' age at evaluation ranged from 13 to 51 years, with a median age of 22 years. Clinically, we saw a broad phenotype, ranging from isolated antibody deficiency to recurrent strokes. All but 1 patient had low numbers of memory B cells. Moreover, B cell function seemed to correlate with inflammation.

Conclusion

Taken together, our findings indicate that DADA2 presents not only with vasculopathy but also with an immunodeficiency of the B cell compartment. Therefore, patients with antibody deficiency should be screened for DADA2. Anti–tumor necrosis factor treatment might improve immunologic features over time and might be considered in patients without vascular manifestations but with elevated inflammation markers. Conservative management has so far proven to be the choice for our less severely affected adolescent and adult DADA2 patients; however, in patients with severe cytopenias and bone marrow failure, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation should be considered.
Early Changes of the Cortical Micro‐Channel System in the Bare Area of the Joints of Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Werner David , Simon David , Englbrecht Matthias , Stemmler Fabian , Simon Christoph , Berlin Andreas , Haschka Judith , Renner Nina , Buder Thomas , Engelke Klaus , Hueber Axel J. , Rech Jürgen , Schett Georg , Kleyer Arnd
Published: May 2017

Objective

To characterize the specific structural properties of the erosion‐prone bare area of the human joint, and to search for early microstructural changes in this region during rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In the initial part of the study, human cadaveric hand joints were examined for exact localization of the bare area of the metacarpal heads, followed by detection of cortical micro‐channels (CoMiCs) in this region by high‐resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR‐pQCT) and, after anatomic dissection, validation of the presence of CoMiCs by micro–computed tomography (micro‐CT). In the second part of the study, the number and distribution of CoMiCs were analyzed in 107 RA patients compared to 105 healthy individuals of similar age and sex distribution.

Results

Investigation by HR‐pQCT combined with adaptive thresholding allowed the detection of CoMiCs in the bare area of human cadaveric joints. The existence of CoMiCs in the bare area was additionally validated by micro‐CT. In healthy individuals, the number of CoMiCs increased with age. RA patients showed significantly more CoMiCs compared to healthy individuals (mean ± SD 112.9 ± 54.7/joint versus 75.2 ± 41.9/joint; P < 0.001), with 20–49‐year‐old RA patients exhibiting similar numbers of CoMiCs as observed in healthy individuals older than age 65 years. Importantly, CoMiCs were already found in RA patients very early in their disease course, with enrichment in the erosion‐prone radial side of the joint.

Conclusion

CoMiCs represent a new form of structural change in the joints of patients with RA. Although the number of CoMiCs increases with age, RA patients develop CoMiCs much earlier in life, and such changes can even occur at the onset of the disease. CoMiCs therefore represent an interesting new opportunity to assess structural changes in RA.
Distributed Adaptive Event‐Triggered Control for Leader‐Following Consensus of Multi‐Agent Systems
Authors: You Xiu , Hua Changchun , Guan Xinping
Published: May 2017

This paper studies the leader‐following consensus problem for Lipschitz nonlinear multi‐agent systems using novel event‐triggered controllers. A distributed adaptive law is introduced for the event‐based control strategy design such that the proposed controllers are independent of system parameters and only use the relative states of neighboring agents, and hence are fully distributed. Due to the introduction of an event‐triggered control scheme, the controller of the agent is only triggered at it's own event times, and thus reduces the amount of communication between controller and actuator and lowers the frequency of controller updates in practice. Based on a quadratic Lyapunov function, the event condition which uses only neighbor information and local computation at trigger instants is established. Infinite triggers within a finite time are also verified to be impossible. The effectiveness of the theoretical results are illustrated through simulation examples.
Randomized clinical trial of biodegradeable intraluminal sheath to prevent anastomotic leak after stapled colorectal anastomosis
Authors: Bakker I S , Morks A N , ten Cate Hoedemaker H O , Burgerhof J G M , Leuvenink H G , van Praagh J B , Ploeg R J , Havenga K ,   the Collaborative C-seal Study Group, Bakker I S , Morks A N , ten Cate Hoedemaker H O , Leuvenink H G , Ploeg R J , Havenga K , van Etten B , Lange J F M , Hemmer P H J , Burgerhof J G M , Sonneveld D J A , Tanis P J , Wegdam J A , Jonk A , Lutke Holzik M F , Bosker R J I , Lamme B , Spillenaar Bilgen E J , Bremers A J , van der Mijle H C , Hoff C , de Vries D P , Logeman F , Sietses C , Lesanka Versluijs-Ossewaarde F N , Leijtens J W , Tobon Morales R E , Neijenhuis P A , Kloppenberg F W , Schasfoort R , Bleeker W A , Hess D , Rosman C , Wit F , Ton van Engelenburg K C , Pronk A , Bonsing B A , Dekker J W , Consten E C , Patijn G A , Bogdan Rajcs S , Csapó Z , Bálint A , Harsányi L , István G , Horisberger K , Bader F , Kutup A , Mariette C , Cebrián F
Published: May 2017

Background

Anastomotic leakage is a potential major complication after colorectal surgery. The C-seal was developed to help reduce the clinical leakage rate. It is an intraluminal sheath that is stapled proximal to a colorectal anastomosis, covering it intraluminally and thus preventing intestinal leakage in case of anastomotic dehiscence. The C-seal trial was initiated to evaluate the efficacy of the C-seal in reducing anastomotic leakage in stapled colorectal anastomoses.

Methods

This RCT was performed in 41 hospitals in the Netherlands, Germany, France, Hungary and Spain. Patients undergoing elective surgery with a stapled colorectal anastomosis less than 15 cm from the anal verge were eligible. Included patients were randomized to the C-seal and control groups, stratified for centre, anastomotic height and intention to create a defunctioning stoma. Primary outcome was anastomotic leakage requiring invasive treatment.

Results

Between December 2011 and December 2013, 402 patients were included in the trial, 202 in the C-seal group and 200 in the control group. Anastomotic leakage was diagnosed in 31 patients (7·7 per cent), with a 10·4 per cent leak rate in the C-seal group and 5·0 per cent in the control group (P = 0·060). Male sex showed a trend towards a higher leak rate (P = 0·055). Construction of a defunctioning stoma led to a lower leakage rate, although this was not significant (P = 0·095).

Conclusion

C-seal application in stapled colorectal anastomoses does not reduce anastomotic leakage. Registration number: NTR3080 (http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/index.asp).
Chemical Profiling and Assessment of Antineurodegenerative and Antioxidant Properties of Veronica teucrium L. and Veronica jacquinii Baumg.
Authors: Živković Jelena Č. , Barreira João C. M. , Šavikin Katarina P. , Alimpić Ana Z. , Stojković Dejan S. , Dias Maria Inês , Santos‐Buelga Celestino , Duletić‐Laušević Sonja N. , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R.
Published: May 2017

Neuroprotective potential of V. teucrium and V. jacquinii methanol extracts was analyzed. Chemical analysis of investigated extracts showed the presence of phenolic acid derivatives, flavonoids and one secoiridoid. The detected flavonoids derived from flavones (luteolin and isoscutellarein in V. jacquinii; apigenin, isoscutellarein and luteolin in V. teucrium) and flavonol (quercetin in V. jacquinii). Acteoside was the dominant compound in V. jacquinii, while plantamajoside and isoscutellarein 7‐O‐(6‴‐O‐acetyl)‐β‐allosyl (1‴→2‴)‐β‐glucoside were the major phenolics in V. teucrium. Additionally, the antineurodegenerative activity was tested at concentrations of 25, 50, and 100 μg/ml using acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and tyrosinase (TYR) assays. The inhibition of both enzymes was achieved with the investigated extracts, ranging from 22.78 to 35.40% for AChE and from 9.57 to 16.38% for TYR. There was no statistical difference between the activities of the analyzed extracts. Our data indicate that V. teucrium and V. jacquinii may have beneficial effects against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Pipecolic Acid Hydroxylases: A Monophyletic Clade among cis‐Selective Bacterial Proline Hydroxylases that Discriminates l‐Proline
Authors: Mattay Johanna , Hüttel Wolfgang
Published: May 2017

Proline hydroxylases are iron(II)/2‐oxoglutarate‐dependent enzymes that hydroxylate l‐proline and derivatives, such as lpipecolic acid, which is the six‐membered‐ring homologue of l‐proline. It has been established that there is a distinct group of conserved bacterial enzymes that hydroxylate l‐pipecolic acid and trans‐3‐ and trans‐4‐methyl‐l‐proline, but virtually no l‐proline. This allows the organism to produce hydroxyproline congeners without hydroxylation of the physiologically omnipresent l‐proline. In vitro conversions showed that the substrate spectrum of the pipecolic acid hydroxylases GetF (from a Streptomyces sp.; producer of the tetrapeptide antibiotic GE81112) and PiFa (from Frankia alni) overlaps that of proline hydroxylases, except for the nonacceptance of l‐proline and smaller homologues. Distinct and conserved residues were determined for both types of enzymes. However, site‐directed mutagenesis in GetF did not yield variants that accepted l‐proline; this suggested a complex interaction of several residues around the active site, which resulted in delicate changes in substrate specificity. This is supported by substrate docking in a homology model of GetF, which revealed an altered orientation for l‐proline relative to that of preferred substrates.
Between a Rock and a Hard Place
Authors: Heuser Richard
Published: May 2017

Key Points

SFA disease has unique challenges

A myriad of interventional techniques have been proposed to treat calcific femoral disease

It appears a combination of atherectomy and drug elution may be the procedure of choice in these patients

New innovative therapies may be a viable option in the future
From Active‐Site Models to Real Catalysts: Importance of the Material Gap in the Design of Pd Catalysts for Methane Oxidation
Authors: Doan Hieu A. , Sharma Munish K. , Epling William S. , Grabow Lars C.
Published: May 2017

The front cover artwork for Issue 9/2017 is provided by the University of Houston. The image shows the charge density difference in the transition state of methane activation over a single crystal Pd(1 0 0) surface as obtained from electronic structure simulations. See the Full Paper itself at https://doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201601333.
Unsaturated Long‐Chain Fatty Acids Are Preferred Ferritin Ligands That Enhance Iron Biomineralization
Authors: Zanzoni Serena , Pagano Katiuscia , D'Onofrio Mariapina , Assfalg Michael , Ciambellotti Silvia , Bernacchioni Caterina , Turano Paola , Aime Silvio , Ragona Laura , Molinari Henriette
Published: May 2017

Ferritin is a ubiquitous nanocage protein, which can accommodate up to thousands of iron atoms inside its cavity. Aside from its iron storage function, a new role as a fatty acid binder has been proposed for this protein. The interaction of apo horse spleen ferritin (HoSF) with a variety of lipids has been here investigated through NMR spectroscopic ligand‐based experiments, to provide new insights into the mechanism of ferritin–lipid interactions, and the link with iron mineralization. 1D 1H, diffusion (DOSY) and saturation‐transfer difference (STD) NMR experiments provided evidence for a stronger interaction of ferritin with unsaturated fatty acids compared to saturated fatty acids, detergents, and bile acids. Mineralization assays showed that oleate c aused the most efficient increase in the initial rate of iron oxidation, and the highest formation of ferric species in HoSF. The comprehension of the factors inducing a faster biomineralization is an issue of the utmost importance, given the association of ferritin levels with metabolic syndromes, such as insulin resistance and diabetes, characterized by fatty acid concentration dysregulation. The human ferritin H‐chain homopolymer (HuHF), featuring ferroxidase activity, was also tested for its fatty acid binding capabilities. Assays show that oleate can bind with high affinity to HuHF, without altering the reaction rates at the ferroxidase site.
Asymmetric Synthesis of β‐Lactams through Copper‐Catalyzed Alkyne–Nitrone Coupling with a Prolinol–Phosphine Chiral Ligand
Authors: Takayama Yurie , Ishii Takaoki , Ohmiya Hirohisa , Iwai Tomohiro , Schwarzer Martin C. , Mori Seiji , Taniguchi Tohru , Monde Kenji , Sawamura Masaya
Published: May 2017

Prolinol–phosphine chiral ligands enabled highly enantioselective copper‐catalyzed intermolecular alkyne–nitrone coupling (Kinugasa reaction) to produce 1,3,4‐trisubstituted chiral β‐lactams. A high level of enantiocontrol was achieved not only with aryl‐ or alkenylacetylenes but also with alkylacetylenes, which were important but unfavorable substrates in the previously reported protocols. Two‐point hydrogen bonding between the chiral ligand and the nitrone oxyanion consisting of O−H⋅⋅⋅O and C(sp3)−H⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen bonds is proposed.
Plasmonic Au Decorated Single‐crystal‐like TiO2‐NaYF4 Mesoporous Microspheres for Enhanced Broadband Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Yuanwei , Zhu Yihua , Yang Xiaoling , Shen Jianhua , Zhu Jingrun , Qian Shaohong , Li Chunzhong
Published: May 2017

Single‐crystal‐like TiO2 mesoporous microspheres have been reported with high photocatalytic activity under ultraviolet light (UV light) because of their high specific surface areas and single‐crystal‐like channel walls. In this work, plasmonic gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) and β‐NaYF4: Yb3+, Er3+ upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) were composited with single‐crystal‐like TiO2 mesoporous microspheres through a series of facile approaches, aiming at broadening response region of solar light from UV to visible and near infrared light and enhancing the photocatalytic activity further. The structure was rationally designed by modifying the pore size of TiO2 mesoporous microspheres so as to anchor plasmonic Au NPs, and covering β‐NaYF4: Yb3+, Er3+ with SiO2 in order to embed UCNPs into TiO2 mesoporous microspheres via hydrophilic interaction. This work studied the attribution of Au NPs and UCNPs to photocatalysis and found out that combining Au NPs and certain amount of UCNPs with single‐crystal‐ like TiO2 mesoporous microspheres in a monolithic architecture would bring enhanced broadband photocatalytic activity under simulated solar light. Consequently, the composite photocatalyts containing 150 mg UCNPs showed a significant enhancement in reaction rate, which was 36.02% higher than commercial P25 and 85.09% higher than pure TiO2 mesoporous microspheres under simulated solar light.
Neladenoson Bialanate Hydrochloride: A Prodrug of a Partial Adenosine A1 Receptor Agonist for the Chronic Treatment of Heart Diseases
Authors: Meibom Daniel , Albrecht‐Küpper Barbara , Diedrichs Nicole , Hübsch Walter , Kast Raimund , Krämer Thomas , Krenz Ursula , Lerchen Hans‐Georg , Mittendorf Joachim , Nell Peter G. , Süssmeier Frank , Vakalopoulos Alexandros , Zimmermann Katja
Published: May 2017

Adenosine is known to be released under a variety of physiological and pathophysiological conditions to facilitate the protection and regeneration of injured ischemic tissues. The activation of myocardial adenosine A1 receptors (A1Rs) has been shown to inhibit myocardial pathologies associated with ischemia and reperfusion injury, suggesting several options for new cardiovascular therapies. When full A1R agonists are used, the desired protective and regenerative cardiovascular effects are usually overshadowed by unintended pharmacological effects such as induction of bradycardia, atrioventricular (AV) blocks, and sedation. These unwanted effects can be overcome by using partial A1R agonists. Starting from previously reported capadenoson we evaluated options to tailor A1R agonists to a specific partiality range, thereby optimizing the therapeutic window. This led to the identification of the potent and selective agonist neladenoson, which shows the desired partial response on the A1R, resulting in cardioprotection without sedative effects or cardiac AV blocks. To circumvent solubility and formulation issues for neladenoson, a prodrug approach was pursued. The dipeptide ester neladenoson bialanate hydrochloride showed significantly improved solubility and exposure after oral administration. Neladenoson bialanate hydrochloride is currently being evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of heart failure.
Comprehensive analysis of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) incidence and mortality in Canada reveals changing trends and geographic clustering for this malignancy
Authors: Ghazawi Feras M. , Netchiporouk Elena , Rahme Elham , Tsang Matthew , Moreau Linda , Glassman Steven , Provost Nathalie , Gilbert Martin , Jean Sara‐Elizabeth , Pehr Kevin , Sasseville Denis , Litvinov Ivan V.
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Previous reports of geographic clustering of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) in Texas, Pittsburgh, and Sweden as well as the occurrence of CTCL in married couples and family members raise a possibility of the existence of an external and potentially preventable trigger(s) for this rare skin cancer.

METHODS

The authors studied CTCL incidence and mortality in Canada using 3 distinct population‐based cancer databases. Data on patients' sex, age at the time of diagnosis, subtype of CTCL malignancy, reporting province, city, and postal code were analyzed. CTCL cases were mapped across Canada using geographic information systems software.

RESULTS

In total, 6685 patients with CTCL were identified in Canada during 1992 through 2010 (CTCL incidence rate, 11.32 cases per million individuals per year), of which 58% were males. The mean age at diagnosis was 59.4 ± 21.5 years. Geographic analysis of patients revealed increased CTCL incidence on the provincial and city levels in several eastern provinces and in Manitoba. An analysis according to postal codes (Forward Sortation Area [FSA]) identified select communities in which several high‐incidence FSAs were contiguous or adjacent. Several of these FSAs were located in industrial regions of Canadian cities. Conversely, 3 of 8 low‐incidence FSAs were clustered in Ottawa, Ontario, which has very little industrial presence. An analysis of CTCL mortality in Canada corroborated the current incidence findings.

CONCLUSIONS

The current results provide a comprehensive analysis of CTCL burden in Canada and highlight several important areas of geographic case clustering. These findings argue that industrial exposures may play an important role in promoting CTCL pathogenesis. Cancer 2017;123:3550‐67. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Measuring Temperature Change at the Nanometer Scale on Gold Nanoparticles by Using Thermoresponsive PEGMA Polymers
Authors: Yavuz Mustafa S. , Citir Murat , Cavusoglu Halit , Demirel Gokhan
Published: May 2017

Plasmonic heating of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) under laser illumination is a highly desirable technique, especially for cancer therapy. However, significant drawbacks still remain including uncontrolled heat release from AuNPs, random exposure duration, and selection of the proper laser power without damaging normal healthy cells. Herein, we demonstrate a simple and versatile method to measure temperature variation on the surface of Au nanoparticles under laser irradiation based on a thermoresponsive polymer, poly(ethylene glycol) methylether methacrylate (PEGMA). In this context, a series of PEGMA polymers were synthesized to have different lower critical solution temperature (LCST) values (28–90 °C) and conjugated to the surface of spherical AuNPs by a gold–thiolate linkage. According to our strategy, the AuNPs first photothermally absorb light energy and convert it to heat owing to their tailored photothermal characteristics. The generated heat from the AuNPs subsequently dissipates into the surrounding thermoresponsive PEGMA polymer. When the temperature generated on the Au surface upon laser irradiation for a certain exposure time reaches the LCST value of the surrounding PEGMA polymer, the polymer chain collapses. Therefore, the hydrodynamic diameter of the PEGMA‐coated AuNPs changes, which can be easily monitored by using dynamic light scattering (DLS). We systematically measured the temperature (28–90 °C) generated on the AuNP surfaces by using different laser power densities with varying durations. We believe that the resulting strategy will be very valuable for oncologists to easily predict the minimum laser power and duration needed to destroy the cancer cells through the photothermal effect of Au nanostructures.
Promises and Challenges in Continuous Tracking Utilizing Amino Acids in Skin Secretions for Active Multi‐Factor Biometric Authentication for Cybersecurity
Authors: Agudelo Juliana , Privman Vladimir , Halámek Jan
Published: May 2017

We consider a new concept of biometric‐based cybersecurity systems for active authentication by continuous tracking, which utilizes biochemical processing of metabolites present in skin secretions. Skin secretions contain a large number of metabolites and small molecules that can be targeted for analysis. Here we argue that amino acids found in sweat can be exploited for the establishment of an amino acid profile capable of identifying an individual user of a mobile or wearable device. Individual and combinations of amino acids processed by biocatalytic cascades yield physical (optical or electronic) signals, providing a time‐series of several outputs that, in their entirety, should suffice to authenticate a specific user based on standard statistical criteria. Initial results, motivated by biometrics, indicate that single amino acid levels can provide analog signals that vary according to the individual donor, albeit with limited resolution versus noise. However, some such assays offer digital separation (into well‐defined ranges of values) according to groups such as age, biological sex, race, and physiological state of the individual. Multi‐input biocatalytic cascades that handle several amino acid signals to yield a single digital‐type output, as well as continuous‐tracking time‐series data rather than a single‐instance sample, should enable active authentication at the level of an individual.
Quality of randomized controlled trials in eating disorder prevention
Authors: Watson Hunna J. , Goodman Erica L. , McLagan Nicole B. , Joyce Tara , French Elizabeth , Willan Vivienne , Egan Sarah J.
Published: May 2017

Objective

To investigate the quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of eating disorder prevention.

Method

A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Collaboration Library to January 2016. Studies were included if they were RCTs that tested an eating disorder prevention program. We identified 96 studies with a total 15,350 participants (91% female, M age = 17 years) and rated quality with the Quality Rating Scale (QRS; Moncrieff et al., 2001).

Results

The mean QRS score was 62% (SD = 13%). Several standards of quality were not frequently fulfilled (i.e., failed to achieve an optimal rating), for example, power calculation (85%), intent‐to‐treat analysis (54%), blinding of assessor (75%), representative sample (78%), adequate sample size (75%), and appropriate duration of trial including follow‐up (67%). QRS was positively and significantly associated with publication year, number of authors, and PubMed‐indexation.

Discussion

Given the majority of eating disorder prevention studies had problems with trial quality, it is recommended that future RCTs follow quality checklists and CONSORT guidelines, that RCTs are registered, and protocols published in advance. In addition, funding bodies are called on to deliver the support needed to ensure that preventions for eating disorders are efficiently and cost‐effectively achieved.