bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prokaryotic nanocompartments form synthetic organelles in a eukaryote
Authors: Lau Yu Heng , Giessen Tobias W. , Altenburg Wiggert J. , Silver Pamela A.
Published: April 2018

Compartmentalization of proteins into organelles is a promising strategy for enhancing the productivity of engineered eukaryotic organisms. However, approaches that co-opt endogenous organelles may be limited by the potential for unwanted crosstalk and disruption of native metabolic functions. Here, we present the construction of synthetic non-endogenous organelles in the eukaryotic yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, based on the prokaryotic family of self-assembling proteins known as encapsulins. We establish that encapsulins self-assemble to form nanoscale compartments in yeast, and that heterologous proteins can be selectively targeted for compartmentalization. Housing destabilized proteins within encapsulin compartments afford protection against proteolytic degradation in vivo, while the interaction between split protein components is enhanced upon co-localization within the compartment interior. Furthermore, encapsulin compartments can support enzymatic catalysis, with substrate turnover observed for an encapsulated yeast enzyme. Encapsulin compartments therefore represent a modular platform, orthogonal to existing organelles, for programming synthetic compartmentalization in eukaryotes.
The fluorination effect of fluoroamphiphiles in cytosolic protein delivery
Authors: Zhang Zhenjing , Shen Wanwan , Ling Jing , Yan Yang , Hu Jingjing , Cheng Yiyun
Published: April 2018

Direct delivery of proteins into cells avoids many drawbacks of gene delivery, and thus has emerging applications in biotherapy. However, it remains a challenging task owing to limited charges and relatively large size of proteins. Here, we report an efficient protein delivery system via the co-assembly of fluoroamphiphiles and proteins into nanoparticles. Fluorous substituents on the amphiphiles play essential roles in the formation of uniform nanoparticles, avoiding protein denaturation, efficient endocytosis, and maintaining low cytotoxicity. Structure-activity relationship studies reveal that longer fluorous chain length and higher fluorination degree contribute to more efficient protein delivery, but excess fluorophilicity on the polymer leads to the pre-assembly of fluoroamphiphiles into stable vesicles, and thus failed protein encapsulation and cytosolic delivery. This study highlights the advantage of fluoroamphiphiles over other existing strategies for intracellular protein delivery.
Mitochondrial dysfunction within the synapses of substantia nigra neurons in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Reeve Amy K. , Grady John P. , Cosgrave Eve M. , Bennison Emma , Chen Chun , Hepplewhite Philippa D. , Morris Christopher M.
Published: April 2018

Mitochondrial dysfunction within the cell bodies of substantia nigra neurons is prominent in both ageing and Parkinson’s disease. The loss of dopaminergic substantia nigra neurons in Parkinson’s disease is associated with loss of synapses within the striatum, and this may precede neuronal loss. We investigated whether mitochondrial changes previously reported within substantia nigra neurons were also seen within the synapses and axons of these neurons. Using high resolution quantitative fluorescence immunohistochemistry we determined mitochondrial density within remaining dopaminergic axons and synapses, and quantified deficiencies of mitochondrial Complex I and Complex IV in these compartments. In Parkinson’s disease mitochondrial populations were increased within axons and the mitochondria expressed higher levels of key electron transport chain proteins compared to controls. Furthermore we observed synapses which were devoid of mitochondrial proteins in all groups, with a significant reduction in the number of these ‘empty’ synapses in Parkinson’s disease. This suggests that neurons may attempt to maintain mitochondrial populations within remaining axons and synapses in Parkinson’s disease to facilitate continued neural transmission in the presence of neurodegeneration, potentially increasing oxidative damage. This compensatory event may represent a novel target for future restorative therapies in Parkinson’s disease.
Objective measurement in routine care of people with Parkinson’s disease improves outcomes
Authors: Farzanehfar Parisa , Woodrow Holly , Braybrook Michelle , McGregor Sarah , Evans Andrew , Nicklason Frank , Horne Malcolm
Published: April 2018

It is common in medicine to titrate therapy according to target ranges of objectively measured parameters. Objective measurement of motor function is available for Parkinson’s Disease (PD), making it possible to optimise therapy and clinical outcomes. In this study, an accelerometry based measurement and predefined target ranges were used to assess motor function in a Northern Tasmania PD cohort managed by a Movement Disorder clinic. Approximately 40% (n = 103) of the total PD population participated in this study and motor scores were within target in 22%. In the 78% above target, changes in oral therapy were recommended in 74%, Advanced Therapy in 12% and treatment was contraindicated in 9%. Following changes in oral therapy, there was a further objective measurement and clinical consultation to establish whether scores had reached target range: if so subjects left the study, otherwise further changes of therapy were recommended (unless contraindications were present). Seventy-seven cases completed the study, with 48% achieving target (including 22% at outset), Advanced Therapy recommended in 19% and contraindications preventing any change in therapy in 17%. In the 43% of cases in whom oral therapy was changed, total UPDRS improved significantly (effect size = 8) as did the PDQ39 in cases reaching target. NMS Quest and MOCA scores also improved significantly. This study shows that many people in a representative cohort of PD would benefit from objective assessment and treatment of their PD features against a target.
Differences in exam performance between pupils attending selective and non-selective schools mirror the genetic differences between them
Authors: Smith-Woolley Emily , Pingault Jean-Baptiste , Selzam Saskia , Rimfeld Kaili , Krapohl Eva , von Stumm Sophie , Asbury Kathryn , Dale Philip S. , Young Toby , Allen Rebecca , Kovas Yulia , Plomin Robert
Published: April 2018

On average, students attending selective schools outperform their non-selective counterparts in national exams. These differences are often attributed to value added by the school, as well as factors schools use to select pupils, including ability, achievement and, in cases where schools charge tuition fees or are located in affluent areas, socioeconomic status. However, the possible role of DNA differences between students of different schools types has not yet been considered. We used a UK-representative sample of 4814 genotyped students to investigate exam performance at age 16 and genetic differences between students in three school types: state-funded, non-selective schools (‘non-selective’), state-funded, selective schools (‘grammar’) and private schools, which are selective (‘private’). We created a genome-wide polygenic score (GPS) derived from a genome-wide association study of years of education (EduYears). We found substantial mean genetic differences between students of different school types: students in non-selective schools had lower EduYears GPS compared to those in grammar (d = 0.41) and private schools (d = 0.37). Three times as many students in the top EduYears GPS decile went to a selective school compared to the bottom decile. These results were mirrored in the exam differences between school types. However, once we controlled for factors involved in pupil selection, there were no significant genetic differences between school types, and the variance in exam scores at age 16 explained by school type dropped from 7% to <1%. These results show that genetic and exam differences between school types are primarily due to the heritable characteristics involved in pupil admission.
Author Correction: Cellular and molecular synergy in AS01-adjuvanted vaccines results in an early IFNγ response promoting vaccine immunogenicity
Authors: Coccia Margherita , Collignon Catherine , Hervé Caroline , Chalon Aurélie , Welsby Iain , Detienne Sophie , van Helden Mary J. , Dutta Sheetij , Genito Christopher J. , Waters Norman C. , Van Deun Katrijn , Smilde Age K. , van den Berg Robert A. , Franco David , Bourguignon Patricia , Morel Sandra , Garçon Nathalie , Lambrecht Bart N. , Goriely Stanislas , van der Most Robbert , Didierlaurent Arnaud M.
Published: April 2018

In the original version of the article, Fig. 2b was mislabelled. The second row was incorrectly labelled as “MiMPL > MiPBS and MiQS ≈ MPBS” this has now been corrected to “MiQS-21 > MiPBS and MiMPL ≈ MiPBS”. The third row was incorrectly labelled as “MiQS21 > MiPBS and MiMPL ≈ MiPBS” this has now been corrected to “MiMPL > MiPBS and MiQS-21 ≈ MiPBS”. These errors have now been corrected in the PDF and HTML versions of this article.
Author Correction: Impacts of alpine wetland degradation on the composition, diversity and trophic structure of soil nematodes on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wu Pengfei , Zhang Hongzhi , Cui Liwei , Wickings Kyle , Fu Shenglei , Wang Changting
Published: April 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: Predicting the potential distribution in China of Euwallacea fornicatus (Eichhoff) under current and future climate conditions
Authors: Ge Xuezhen , Jiang Chao , Chen Linghong , Qiu Shuang , Zhao Yuxiang , Wang Tao , Zong Shixiang
Published: April 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Intercomparison of phenological transition dates derived from the PhenoCam Dataset V1.0 and MODIS satellite remote sensing
Authors: Richardson Andrew D. , Hufkens Koen , Milliman Tom , Frolking Steve
Published: April 2018

Phenology is a valuable diagnostic of ecosystem health, and has applications to environmental monitoring and management. Here, we conduct an intercomparison analysis using phenological transition dates derived from near-surface PhenoCam imagery and MODIS satellite remote sensing. We used approximately 600 site-years of data, from 128 camera sites covering a wide range of vegetation types and climate zones. During both “greenness rising” and “greenness falling” transition phases, we found generally good agreement between PhenoCam and MODIS transition dates for agricultural, deciduous forest, and grassland sites, provided that the vegetation in the camera field of view was representative of the broader landscape. The correlation between PhenoCam and MODIS transition dates was poor for evergreen forest sites. We discuss potential reasons (including sub-pixel spatial heterogeneity, flexibility of the transition date extraction method, vegetation index sensitivity in evergreen systems, and PhenoCam geolocation uncertainty) for varying agreement between time series of vegetation indices derived from PhenoCam and MODIS imagery. This analysis increases our confidence in the ability of satellite remote sensing to accurately characterize seasonal dynamics in a range of ecosystems, and provides a basis for interpreting those dynamics in the context of tangible phenological changes occurring on the ground.
Structural, magnetic, and electronic properties of Fe82Si4B10P4 metallic glass
Authors: Chen Hui , Dong Bangshao , Zhou Shaoxiong , Li Xinxin , Qin Jingyu
Published: April 2018

The structural, magnetic, and electronic properties of Fe82Si4B10P4 metallic glass were systemically investigated by theoretical simulations. Strong atomic interaction between Fe and metalloid atoms can be observed, while the direct metalloid-metalloid atomic bonds are rare due to the solute-solute avoidance effect. The calculated value of saturation magnetic flux density (B
S
) is ~1.65 T, approaching to experimental result, which is contributed by not only the electron exchange between Fe and metalloid atoms, but also the p-d orbital hybridization of Fe atoms. Moreover, Fe atoms with neighboring P atom behaving larger magnetic moments reveals the important role of P element for promoting the B
S
value. The potential correlation between magnetic behaviors and the local atomic packing in this study sheds some light on the structural origin of the soft magnetic properties and, thereby the theoretical guidance for the development of new soft-magnetic metallic glasses.
Palladium gates for reproducible quantum dots in silicon
Authors: Brauns Matthias , Amitonov Sergey V. , Spruijtenburg Paul-Christiaan , Zwanenburg Floris A.
Published: April 2018

We replace the established aluminium gates for the formation of quantum dots in silicon with gates made from palladium. We study the morphology of both aluminium and palladium gates with transmission electron microscopy. The native aluminium oxide is found to be formed all around the aluminium gates, which could lead to the formation of unintentional dots. Therefore, we report on a novel fabrication route that replaces aluminium and its native oxide by palladium with atomic-layer-deposition-grown aluminium oxide. Using this approach, we show the formation of low-disorder gate-defined quantum dots, which are reproducibly fabricated. Furthermore, palladium enables us to further shrink the gate design, allowing us to perform electron transport measurements in the few-electron regime in devices comprising only two gate layers, a major technological advancement. It remains to be seen, whether the introduction of palladium gates can improve the excellent results on electron and nuclear spin qubits defined with an aluminium gate stack.
Protein-enriched outer membrane vesicles as a native platform for outer membrane protein studies
Authors: Thoma Johannes , Manioglu Selen , Kalbermatter David , Bosshart Patrick D. , Fotiadis Dimitrios , Müller Daniel J.
Published: April 2018

Most studies characterizing the folding, structure, and function of membrane proteins rely on solubilized or reconstituted samples. Whereas solubilized membrane proteins lack the functionally important lipid membrane, reconstitution embeds them into artificial lipid bilayers, which lack characteristic features of cellular membranes including lipid diversity, composition and asymmetry. Here, we utilize outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) released from Escherichia coli to study outer membrane proteins (Omps) in the native membrane environment. Enriched in the native membrane of the OMV we characterize the assembly, folding, and structure of OmpG, FhuA, Tsx, and BamA. Comparing Omps in OMVs to those reconstituted into artificial lipid membranes, we observe different unfolding pathways for some Omps. This observation highlights the importance of the native membrane environment to maintain the native structure and function relationship of Omps. Our fast and easy approach paves the way for functional and structural studies of Omps in the native membrane.
Synthesis, structure and proton conductivity of 2,4,5-trimethylbenzenesulfonic acid dihydrate
Authors: Pisareva A. V. , Shilov G. V. , Karelin A. I. , Pisarev R. V. , Shilova I. A. , Dobrovolsky Yu A. , Aldoshin S. M.
Published: April 2018

2,4,5-Trimethylbenzenesulfonic acid dihydrate is a good proton conductor and has potential as a polymer electrolyte for different electrochemical devices.
Calibration transfer based on the weight matrix (CTWM) of PLS for near infrared (NIR) spectral analysis
Authors: Zhang Feiyu , Zhang Ruoqiu , Ge Jiong , Chen Wanchao , Yang Wuye , Du Yiping
Published: April 2018

Calibration transfer is of great necessity for practical applications of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, since the original calibration model would become invalid when spectra are measured on different instruments or under different detection conditions.
Size-dependent uptake of electrically neutral amphipathic polymeric nanoparticles by cell-sized liposomes and an insight into their internalization mechanism in living cells
Authors: Ichikawa S. , Shimokawa N. , Takagi M. , Kitayama Y. , Takeuchi T.
Published: April 2018

The size-dependent uptake of amphipathic uncharged-nanoparticles in cell-sized liposomes is emerging as a new insight into their internalization mechanism in living cells.
Simple bond patterns predict the stability of Diels–Alder adducts of empty fullerenes
Authors: Pla Paula , Wang Yang , Alcamí Manuel
Published: April 2018

A systematic study of Diels–Alder cycloadditions to empty fullerenes reveals that π effects control site preference. Simple Hückel calculation allows to obtain quantitative descriptors and to understand why addition occurs preferentially at certain types of bonds. A couple of simple rules are proposed as a visual guide for a rapid prediction of Diels–Alder reactivity.
Intermolecular hydrogen bonds in water@IL supramolecular complexes
Authors: Zanatta Marcileia , Dupont Jairton , Wentz Gabriela Negruni , dos Santos Francisco P.
Published: April 2018

Since dry ILs are difficult to obtain, it is valuable to understand the nature of the ion–water interaction, which can hardly influence the reaction catalysis.
Simultaneous neutron powder diffraction and microwave dielectric studies of ammonia absorption in metal–organic framework systems
Authors: Barter Michael , Hartley Jon , Yazigi François-Joseph , Marshall Ross J. , Forgan Ross S. , Porch Adrian , Jones Martin Owen
Published: April 2018

A series of MOFs have been investigated under ammonia absorption and desorption using NPD and microwave dielectric techniques to differentiate physisorbed and metal-coordinated ammonia.
A ternary Fe(ii)-terpyridyl complex-based single platform for reversible multiple-ion recognition
Authors: Singh Alok Kumar , Pandey Gajanan , Singh Kaman , Kumar Abhinav , Trivedi Manoj , Singh Vikram
Published: April 2018

A ternary Fe(ii)-terpyridyl complex based sensor, a rare example and without reporter groups, is utilized for multiple-ion (CN−, F−, OH−, Ag+, Hg2+, Fe2+and Fe3+) recognition.
The pivotal role of electronics in preferred alkene over alkyne Ni–carboryne insertions and absolute regioselectivities
Authors: Mu Wei-Hua , Cheng Rui-Jiao , Fang De-Cai , Chass Gregory A.
Published: April 2018

One-pot regioselectivity implicitly driven by electronically prioritised alkene insertion.
A comparative technoeconomic analysis of pathways for commercial electrochemical CO2 reduction to liquid products
Authors: Spurgeon Joshua M. , Kumar Bijandra
Published: April 2018

Electrochemical reduction of CO2 to fuels and chemicals is currently a focus of significant research effort as a technology that can simultaneously mitigate greenhouse gas emissions while storing renewable electricity for use on demand. Herein, the economics of CO2 reduction to select liquid products is analyzed.
Two-dimensional siloxene nanosheets: novel high-performance supercapacitor electrode materials
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Karthikeyan , Pazhamalai Parthiban , Kim Sang-Jae
Published: April 2018

A symmetric supercapacitor constructed using two dimensional siloxene sheets in an ionic liquid electrolyte exhibits high areal capacitance and energy density.
A sustainable oxidative esterification of thiols with alcohols by a cobalt nanocatalyst supported on doped carbon
Authors: Zhou Changjian , Tan Zhenda , Jiang Huanfeng , Zhang Min
Published: April 2018

With a newly developed cobalt nanocatalyst using N–SiO2-doped activated carbon as the support (Co/N–SiO2–AC), a sustainable oxidative esterification of (hetero)aryl and alkyl thiols with alcohols has been developed.
Hydration and alkoxylation of alkynes catalyzed by NHC–Au–OTf
Authors: Gatto Mattia , Baratta Walter , Belanzoni Paola , Belpassi Leonardo , Del Zotto Alessandro , Tarantelli Francesco , Zuccaccia Daniele
Published: April 2018

An efficient alkoxylation (hydration) of alkynes has been developed and the effect of the solvent used has been rationalized.
Magnetic organic xerogels: efficient adsorbents for the removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions
Authors: Strachowski Przemysław , Fronczak Maciej , Olechno Eliza , Kowalik Marlena , Kiciński Wojciech , Kaszuwara Waldemar , Bystrzejewski Michał
Published: April 2018

The synthesis of novel mobile composite adsorbents dedicated to the efficient removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions is presented.
pH-Induced transformation of ligated Au25 to brighter Au23 nanoclusters
Authors: Waszkielewicz Magdalena , Olesiak-Banska Joanna , Comby-Zerbino Clothilde , Bertorelle Franck , Dagany Xavier , Bansal Ashu K. , Sajjad Muhammad T. , Samuel Ifor D. W. , Sanader Zeljka , Rozycka Miroslawa , Wojtas Magdalena , Matczyszyn Katarzyna , Bonacic-Koutecky Vlasta , Antoine Rodolphe , Ozyhar Andrzej , Samoc Marek
Published: April 2018

Size transformation and fluorescence enhancement of Au25 NCs at low pH.
A Coulomb explosion strategy to tailor the nano-architecture of α-MoO3nanobelts and an insight into its intrinsic mechanism
Authors: Zhang Junli , Zhu Liu , Yang Yu , Yong Huadong , Zhang Junwei , Peng Yong , Fu Jiecai
Published: April 2018

Localized Coulomb explosion occurs in α-MoO3nanobelts under electron beam irradiation and its origin from positive charging was confirmed.
Proton transfer ferroelectricity/multiferroicity in rutile oxyhydroxides
Authors: Wu Menghao , Duan Tianci , Lu Chengliang , Fu Huahua , Dong Shuai , Liu Junming
Published: April 2018

Multi-mode proton-transfer ferroelectricity/multiferroicity is revealed in a series of rutile oxyhydroxides.
Recent advances in RAFT-mediated surfactant-free emulsion polymerization
Authors: Zhou Jianhua , Yao Hongtao , Ma Jianzhong
Published: April 2018

We summarized the RAFT-mediated surfactant-free emulsion polymerization using various RAFT agents and the polymerization types for the preparation of organic/inorganic hybrid materials.
A tough, stretchable, and extensively sticky hydrogel driven by milk protein
Authors: Xu Jianyu , Fan Ziwen , Duan Lijie , Gao Guanghui
Published: April 2018

A tough and adhesive hydrogel assisted by milk protein was proposed, which could adhere to diverse surfaces of various materials.
Investigating the young solar system analog HD 95086
Authors: Chauvin G. , Gratton R. , Bonnefoy M. , Lagrange A.-M. , de Boer J. , Vigan A. , Beust H. , Lazzoni C. , Boccaletti A. , Galicher R. , Desidera S. , Delorme P. , Keppler M. , Lannier J. , Maire A.-L. , Mesa D. , Meunier N. , Kral Q. , Henning T. , Menard F. , Moor A. , Avenhaus H. , Bazzon A. , Janson M. , Beuzit J.-L. , Bhowmik T. , Bonavita M. , Borgniet S. , Brandner W. , Cheetham A. , Cudel M. , Feldt M. , Fontanive C. , Ginski C. , Hagelberg J. , Janin-Potiron P. , Lagadec E. , Langlois M. , Le Coroller H. , Messina S. , Meyer M. , Mouillet D. , Peretti S. , Perrot C. , Rodet L. , Samland M. , Sissa E. , Olofsson J. , Salter G. , Schmidt T. , Zurlo A. , Milli J. , van Boekel R. , Quanz S. , Feautrier P. , Le Mignant D. , Perret D. , Ramos J. , Rochat S.
Published: April 2018

Context. HD 95086 (A8V, 17 Myr) hosts a rare planetary system for which a multi-belt debris disk and a giant planet of 4–5 MJup have been directly imaged.

Aims. Our study aims to characterize the global architecture of this young system using the combination of radial velocity and direct imaging observations. We want to characterize the physical and orbital properties of HD 95086 b, search for additional planets at short and wide orbits and image the cold outer debris belt in scattered light.

Methods. We used HARPS at the ESO 3.6 m telescope to monitor the radial velocity of HD 95086 over two years and investigate the existence of giant planets at less than 3 au orbital distance. With the IRDIS dual-band imager and the IFS integral field spectrograph of SPHERE at VLT, we imaged the faint circumstellar environment beyond 10 au at six epochs between 2015 and 2017.

Results. We do not detect additional giant planets around HD 95086. We identify the nature (bound companion or background contaminant) of all point-like sources detected in the IRDIS field of view. None of them correspond to the ones recently discovered near the edge of the cold outer belt by ALMA. HD 95086 b is resolved for the first time in J-band with IFS. Its near-infrared spectral energy distribution is well fitted by a few dusty and/or young L7–L9 dwarf spectral templates. The extremely red 1–4 μm spectral distribution is typical of low-gravity objects at the L/T spectral type transition. The planet’s orbital motion is resolved between January 2015 and May 2017. Together with past NaCo measurements properly re-calibrated, our orbital fitting solutions favor a retrograde low to moderate-eccentricity orbit e = 0.2+0.3−0.2, with a semi-major axis ~52 au corresponding to orbital periods of ~288 yr and an inclination that peaks at i = 141°, which is compatible with a planet-disk coplanar configuration. Finally, we report the detection in polarimetric differential imaging of the cold outer debris belt between 100 and 300 au, consistent in radial extent with recent ALMA 1.3 mm resolved observations.
Das Fundament jeder Behandlung
Authors: Casagrande C
Published: April 2018

Das Fundament jeder Behandlung ist es, die Individualität des Patienten zu achten, seine persönlichen Reaktionsmuster ernst zu nehmen und immer wieder zu überprüfen, ob das eigene therapeutische Können seinen Bedürfnissen gerecht wird. Die DHZ-Kolumne von HP Christina Casagrande.
The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Chen Grace
Published: April 2018

There is increasing evidence that the gut microbiome, which consists of trillions of microbes representing over 1,000 species of bacteria with over 3 million genes, significantly impacts intestinal health and disease. The gut microbiota not only is capable of promoting intestinal homeostasis and antitumor responses but can also contribute to chronic dysregulated inflammation as well as have genotoxic effects that lead to carcinogenesis. Whether the gut microbiota maintains health or promotes colon cancer may ultimately depend on the composition of the gut microbiome and the balance within the microbial community of protective and detrimental bacterial populations. Disturbances in the normal balanced state of a healthful microbiome, known as dysbiosis, have been observed in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC); however, whether these alterations precede and cause CRC remains to be determined. Nonetheless, studies in mice strongly suggest that the gut microbiota can modulate susceptibility to CRC, and therefore may serve as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Dynamic Quantitative Assessment of Motor Axon Sprouting after Direct Facial–Hypoglossal End-To-Side Neurorrhaphy in Rats
Authors: Liu Pengfei , Zhang Zhang , Liao Chenlong , Zhong Wenxiang , Li Pengyang , Zhang Wenchuan
Published: April 2018

Background End-to-side (ETS) neurorrhaphy is a promising procedure for peripheral nerve repair, yet controversies regarding the efficacy of this repair in facial nerve anastomosis for facial paralysis still exist.

Materials and Methods Thirty rats were divided into three groups: intact control group, direct facial–hypoglossal ETS neurorrhaphy, and end-to-end (ETE) neurorrhaphy. Nerve regeneration was assessed with vibrissae motor performance, electrophysiological tests, retrograde labeling, and histomorphological analysis at 4 and 8 months postoperatively.

Results Both ETS and ETE neurorrhaphies resulted in axonal regeneration and functional recovery of the recipient nerve but did not reach the level of intact controls. Significantly higher numbers of myelinated axons and labeled neurons giving regenerating fibers were found in group ETE compared with group ETS at both time points, consistent with the functional and electrophysiological recovery. Group ETS showed significantly smaller fiber diameter and thinner myelin thickness than group ETE at 4 months, but the difference became nonsignificant at 8 months. ETS neurorrhaphy had a very slight effect on the donor nerve, as determined electrophysiologically and histomorphologically. Sparsely distributed double-labeled neurons and relatively large amounts of single-labeled neurons contributing to reinnervation were found through double retrograde neuronal labeling in group ETS. Further quantitative analysis of the percentage of double-labeled neurons showed a pronounced tendency to decline from 19.8% at 4 months to 6.0% at 8 months postoperatively.

Conclusion Successful reinnervation after ETS neurorrhaphy could be achieved through both collateral sprouting and terminal sprouting, with the latter seeming to be the principal origin of motor nerve sprouting.
Entzündlich-rheumatische Erkrankungen und neurologische Manifestationen
Authors: Bickel A. , Kötter I. , Röther J.
Published: April 2018

Entzündliche Erkrankungen des peripheren und zentralen Nervensystems sind oft eine Herausforderung, und regelmäßig stellt sich die Frage nach einer entzündlich-rheumatischen Grunderkrankung. Die Erstdiagnose einer Vaskulitis oder einer Kollagenose erfolgt sowohl in der Neurologie als auch in der Rheumatologie und daher benötigen Rheumatologen neurologisches Symptomwissen und Neurologen ein Verständnis der entzündlich-rheumatischen Krankheitszeichen. Die diagnostische Zuordnung kann eindeutig sein, wenn typische Symptomkonstellationen vorhanden und diagnostische Kriterien seitens der zerebralen Bildgebung und der Labordiagnostik passend sind. Häufig ist aber der Nachweis einer entzündlich-rheumatologischen Erkrankung erschwert, und eine enge Kooperation zwischen dem neurologischen und rheumatologischen Fachgebiet ist sinnvoll. Wir geben nachfolgend eine Übersicht über die häufigsten neurologischen Manifestationen entzündlich-rheumatologischer Erkrankungen und deren moderne Therapieoptionen.
Tendopathien in der täglichen Praxis – 7. und letzter Teil
Authors: Weinert Frank
Published: April 2018

Wie wenig aktuelle wissenschaftliche Erkenntnisse sich in der täglichen Praxis wiederfinden, zeigt das Beschwerdebild des seitlichen Hüftschmerzes. Das im internationalen Sprachgebrauch als “greater trochanteric pain syndrome” bezeichnete Symptombild wird in den allermeisten Fällen durch eine Insertionstendopathie der Sehnenansätze des M. gluteus medius und minimus verursacht.
Future Perspectives in the Management of Nerve Injuries
Authors: Mackinnon Susan
Published: April 2018

Aim The author presents a solicited “white paper” outlining her perspective on the role of nerve transfers in the management of nerve injuries.

Methods PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were evaluated to compare nerve graft and nerve transfer. An evaluation of the scientific literature by review of index articles was also performed to compare the number of overall clinical publications of nerve repair, nerve graft, and nerve transfer. Finally, a survey regarding the prevalence of nerve transfer surgery was administrated to the World Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery (WSRM) results.

Results Both nerve graft and transfer can generate functional results and the relative success of graft versus transfer depended on the function to be restored and the specific transfers used. Beginning in the early 1990s, there has been a rapid increase from baseline of nerve transfer publications such that clinical nerve transfer publication now exceeds those of nerve repair or nerve graft. Sixty-two responses were received from WSRM membership. These surgeons reported their frequency of “usually or always using nerve transfers for repairing brachial plexus injuries as 68%, radial nerves as 27%, median as 25%, and ulnar as 33%. They reported using nerve transfers” sometimes for brachial plexus 18%, radial nerve 30%, median nerve 34%, ulnar nerve 35%.

Conclusion Taken together this evidence suggests that nerve transfers do offer an alternative technique along with tendon transfers, nerve repair, and nerve grafts.
Distal Nerve Transfer: Perspective of Reconstructive Microsurgery
Authors: Doi Kazuteru
Published: April 2018

Recent articles have strongly emphasized the superiority of distal nerve transfers despite indefinite assessment. I would like to introduce the problems associated with functional evaluation following nerve transfers.
Is the Oblique Branch a Preferable Vascular Pedicle for Anterolateral Thigh Free Flaps?
Authors: Deng Chengliang , Nie Kaiyu , Jin Wenhu , Li Hai , Li Shujun , Wu Bihua , Wang Dali , Wei Zairong
Published: April 2018

Background The oblique branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery is considered an alternative vascular pedicle of the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap. However, the oblique branch has several advantages over the descending branch.

Methods A total of 61 consecutive ALT free flaps were harvested according to Yu's ABC system. Vascular pedicle dimensions and length, artery course, perforator origins, and flap harvest time with the oblique branch or the descending branch were recorded. We classified the ALT flaps with oblique branches into three types according to the origin of perforator B. Type I flaps were those where perforator B originated from the descending branch. Type II flaps were those without perforator B. Type III flaps were those where perforator B originated from the oblique branch.

Results The mean ± standard deviation (SD) diameter of the oblique branch at its origin was 1.68 ± 0.51 mm, with an average ± SD pedicle length of 12.92 ± 3.7 cm, while that of the descending branch was 2.27 ± 0.49 mm and 18.73 ± 5.14 cm, respectively. The percentage of septocutaneous perforators from the oblique branch was 35.59%, while that from the descending branch was 15.38%. The flap harvest time with the oblique branch was 33.73 ± 11.68 minutes, while that of the descending branch was 52.27 ± 7.21 minutes. Based on the origin of perforator B, 7 cases had type I ALT flaps, 4 had type II ALT flaps, and 10 had type III ALT flaps. Various ALT flaps based on the oblique branch were harvested, and good clinical results were achieved.

Conclusion The oblique branch is sufficiently large and can be reliably used as the flap pedicle. It may be the preferred vascular pedicle for ALT free flaps.
Moderate Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest (≥ 28°C) with Selective Antegrade Cerebral Perfusion for Total Arch Replacement with Frozen Elephant Trunk Technique
Authors: El-Sayed Ahmad Ali , Risteski Petar , Ay Mahmut , Papadopoulos Nestoras , Moritz Anton , Zierer Andreas
Published: April 2018

Objectives The optimal hypothermic level during circulatory arrest in aortic arch surgery remains controversial, particularly in frozen elephant trunk (FET) procedures. We describe herein our experience for total arch replacement with FET technique under moderate systemic hypothermic circulatory arrest (≥ 28°C) during selective antegrade cerebral perfusion.

Methods Between January 2009 and January 2016, 38 consecutive patients underwent elective total arch replacement for various aortic arch pathologies with FET technique using the E-vita Open hybrid prosthesis (Jotec GmbH, Hechingen, Germany). Selective unilateral or bilateral cerebral perfusion under moderate systemic hypothermic circulatory arrest (28.7°C ± 0.5°C) was used in all patients. Minimally invasive total arch replacement with FET via partial upper sternotomy was performed in 15 patients (39%) and in the remaining 23 patients (61%) via full sternotomy. Mean late follow-up was 3 ± 2 years and was 98% complete. Clinical data were prospectively entered into our institutional database.

Results Cardiopulmonary bypass time accounted for 198 ± 58 minutes and the myocardial ischemic time 109 ± 29 minutes. Selective antegrade cerebral perfusion time was 55 ± 6 minutes. Lower body circulatory arrest time was 39 ± 11 minutes. Unilateral cerebral perfusion was performed in 31 patients (82%), and bilateral in 7 patients (18%). Intensive care unit stay was 4 ± 3 days. Thirty-day mortality was 5% (n = 2). Late survival at 3 years was 87 ± 3%. Two patients (5%) required reexploration for bleeding. Patients were discharged after a hospital length of stay of 7 ± 2 days. Postoperative permanent neurologic complication occurred in two patients (5%). Three patients (8%) experienced a transient neurologic disorder. New transient renal replacement therapy was necessary in three patients (8%). No spinal cord injury was noted.

Conclusions Our data suggest that moderate systemic hypothermic circulatory arrest (≥ 28°C) in combination with antegrade cerebral perfusion can safely be applied for total aortic arch replacement with FET and offers sufficient neurologic and visceral organ protection.
Ten Years' Experience in Robotic-Assisted Thoracic Surgery for Early Stage Lung Cancer
Authors: Casiraghi Monica , Galetta Domenico , Borri Alessandro , Tessitore Adele , Romano Rosalia , Diotti Cristina , Brambilla Daniela , Maisonneuve Patrick , Spaggiari Lorenzo
Published: April 2018

Background This study analyzed the short- and long-term outcomes of robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) for early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods From November 2006 to December 2016, we performed 363 RATS procedures. This study retrospectively reviewed 339 patients who underwent RATS for clinical stages I (n = 318) or II (n = 21) NSCLC.

Results Twenty-nine patients underwent segmentectomy, 307 lobectomy, and 3 pneumonectomy. Conversion occurred in 22 patients (6.5%): 15 (4.4%) due to technical issues, 4 (1.2%) for oncological reasons, and 3 (0.9%) for bleeding. The median number of N1 and N2 stations resected was 2 and 3, respectively, and the median number of N1 and N2 lymph nodes resected was 9 and 6, respectively. Median operative time was 192 minutes for lobectomy, 172 minutes for segmentectomy, and 275 minutes for pneumonectomy. Median length of hospital stay was 5 days (2–191). The most common postoperative complication was prolonged air leak (12.1%). Major complications occurred in eight patients (2.4%). The 30-day and 90-day operative mortality was 0% and 0.3%, respectively. Two and 5-year cancer-specific survival rate was 96.1% and 91.5%, respectively. Five-year survival rate was 96.2% for patients who underwent segmentectomy, and 89.1% for lobectomy. All three patients who underwent pneumonectomy were alive at 5 years with no disease.

Conclusions Besides the well-known short-term outcomes showing very low morbidity and mortality rates, mediastinal lymph node dissection during RATS adequately assesses lymph node stations detecting occult lymph node metastasis and leading to excellent oncologic results. However, these results await longer follow-up studies.
Previous History of Breast Cancer Increases Rates of Pulmonary Embolism and Costs after Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Evaluation of 185,114 Matched Patients
Authors: Rosas Samuel , Luo T. , Jinnah Alexander , Marquez-Lara Alejandro , Roche Martin , Emory Cynthia
Published: April 2018

Risk factors for adverse events after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) relating to malignancy have not been well studied. Thus, the purpose of this study was to conduct a retrospective case–control outcome and cost analysis after TKA in this population. Patients with a history of breast cancer (BrCa) were identified based on the International Classification of Disease 9th revision codes. An age- and sex-matched cohort was also identified of patients without a history of BrCa. Complications, length of stay, comorbidity burden, and reimbursements were tracked at 90 days. Each cohort comprised 92,557 patients. Length of stay was similar between cohorts (p = 0.627). Comorbidity status and incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE), lower extremity ultrasound, and chest computed tomography (CT) use were higher in patients with a history of BrCa (p < 0.05 for all). Control patients had a lower incidence of acute myocardial infarction (0.14 vs. 0.21%; p < 0.001). Surgical complications were similar. The 90-day reimbursements were greater in patients with a history of BrCa (US$13,990 vs. US$13,033 for controls; p = 0.021). Surgeons should be aware of the increased risk of PE after TKA in patients with a history of BrCa as well as increased 90-day costs, which warrant great attention.
The Relation of the Extracranial Spinal Accessory Nerve to the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle and the Internal Jugular Vein
Authors: Amuti ThomasMombo , Butt Fawzia , Otieno BedaOlabu , Ogeng'o JuliusAlexander
Published: April 2018

The spinal accessory nerve (SAN) exhibits variant anatomy in its relation to the internal jugular vein (IJV) as well as the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM). These variations are important in locating the nerve during surgical neck procedures to avoid its inadvertent injury. These variations, however, are not conserved among different populations and data from the Kenyan setting are partly elucidated. This study, therefore, aims to determine the variant anatomical relationship of the SAN to the SCM and IJV in a select Kenyan population. Forty cadaveric necks were studied bilaterally during routine dissection and the data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Means and modes were calculated for the point of entry of the SAN into the posterior triangle of the neck as well as for its relation to the SCM. Side variations for both of these were analyzed using Student's t-test. Data relating the SAN to the IJV were represented in percentages and side variations were analyzed using the chi-square test. The SAN point of entry into the posterior triangle of the neck was 5.38 cm (3.501–8.008 cm) on the left side and 5.637 cm (3.504–9.173 cm) on the right side ( p = 0.785) from the mastoid process. The nerve perforated the SCM in four cases (10%) on the left side and in eight cases (20%) on the right ( p = 0.253). The SAN lay predominantly medial to the IJV on both sides of the neck, 87.5% on the left side of the neck versus 82.5% on the right ( p = 0.831). In conclusion, the variant relation of the SAN to the IJV and SCM as observed in this setting is an important consideration during radical neck procedures and node biopsies.
Reference Values for Shear Wave Elastography of Neck and Shoulder Muscles in Healthy Individuals
Authors: Ewertsen Caroline , Carlsen Jonathan , Perveez Mohammed , Schytz Henrik
Published: April 2018

Purpose to establish reference values for ultrasound shear-wave elastography for pericranial muscles in healthy individuals (m. trapezius, m. splenius capitis, m. semispinalis capitis, m. sternocleidomastoideus and m. masseter). Also to evaluate day-to-day variations in the shear-wave speeds and evaluate the effect of the pennation of the muscle fibers, ie scanning parallel or perpendicularly to the fibers.

Materials and Methods 10 healthy individuals (5 males and 5 females) had their pericranial muscles examined with shear-wave elastography in two orthogonal planes on two different days for their dominant and non-dominant side. Mean shear wave speeds from 5 ROI’s in each muscle, for each scan plane for the dominant and non-dominant side for the two days were calculated. The effect of the different parameters – muscle pennation, gender, dominant vs non-dominant side and day was evaluated.

Results The effect of scan plane in relation to muscle pennation was statistically significant (p<0.0001). The mean shear-wave speed when scanning parallel to the muscle fibers was significantly higher than the mean shear-wave speed when scanning perpendicularly to the fibers. The day-to-day variation was statistically significant (p=0.0258), but not clinically relevant. Shear-wave speeds differed significantly between muscles. Mean shear wave speeds (m/s) for the muscles in the parallel plane were: for masseter 2.45 (SD:+/−0.25), semispinal 3.36 (SD:+/−0.75), splenius 3.04 (SD:+/−0.65), sternocleidomastoid 2.75 (SD:+/−0.23), trapezius 3.20 (SD:+/−0.27) and trapezius lateral 3.87 (SD:+/−3.87).

Conclusion The shear wave speed variation depended on the direction of scanning. Shear wave elastography may be a method to evaluate muscle stiffness in patients suffering from chronic neck pain.
Experimental study on vibration energy harvesting based on E-ACE
Authors: Cao Jian-Bo , E Shi-Ju , Ren Yu-Xue , Cai Jian-Cheng , Zhou Wu
Published: April 2018

According to the power generation mechanism and power generation characteristics of an electroactive acrylic elastomer (E-ACE), a new idea of vibration energy harvesting with the use of E-ACE was proposed, which is based on the analysis of vibration energy harvesting technology research status and development trend. The prototype of the vibration energy generator was constructed by using the E-ACE material, and its mechanism characteristic of vibration energy harvesting was analyzed and studied in the experiments. Experimental results show that the generated voltage of the E-ACE material increases with the increasing vibration amplitude and vibration frequency. The generated voltage of the E-ACE material exhibited nonlinearity with the increase in the strain area, and there existed an inflection point. It is not true that the bigger the prestretching, the better it is. There is a suitable prestretching condition. The results provide the basis for further research in the field of vibration energy harvesting for E-ACE.
Energy transfer mechanisms in layered 2D perovskites
Authors: Williams Olivia F. , Guo Zhenkun , Hu Jun , Yan Liang , You Wei , Moran Andrew M.
Published: April 2018

Two-dimensional (2D) perovskite quantum wells are generating broad scientific interest because of their potential for use in optoelectronic devices. Recently, it has been shown that layers of 2D perovskites can be grown in which the average thicknesses of the quantum wells increase from the back to the front of the film. This geometry carries implications for light harvesting applications because the bandgap of a quantum well decreases as its thickness increases. The general structural formula for the 2D perovskite systems under investigation in this work is (PEA)2(MA)n−1[PbnI3n+1] (PEA = phenethyl ammonium, MA = methyl ammonium). Here, we examine two layered 2D perovskites with different distributions of quantum well thicknesses. Spectroscopic measurements and model calculations suggest that both systems funnel electronic excitations from the back to the front of the film through energy transfer mechanisms on the time scales of 100’s of ps (i.e., energy transfer from thinner to thicker quantum wells). In addition, the model calculations demonstrate that the transient absorption spectra are composed of a progression of single exciton and biexciton resonances associated with the individual quantum wells. We find that exciton dissociation and/or charge transport dynamics make only minor contributions to the transient absorption spectra within the first 1 ns after photo-excitation. An analysis of the energy transfer kinetics indicates that the transitions occur primarily between quantum wells with values of n that differ by 1 because of the spectral overlap factor that governs the energy transfer rate. Two-dimensional transient absorption spectra reveal a pattern of resonances consistent with the dominance of sequential energy transfer dynamics.