bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced photoelectric performance of (2Al, S) co-doped rutile SnO2
Authors: Guo Minmin , Yang Huimin , Gao Mengting , Zhang Erhui , Liang Zhenhai , Han Peide
Published: September 2017

Enhanced photoelectric performance of rutile SnO2by Al assisting the S–O bonding.
Electrocatalytic water oxidation at amorphous trimetallic oxides based on FeCoNiOx
Authors: Sayeed Md Abu , O'Mullane Anthony P.
Published: September 2017

The rapid electrochemical formation of amorphous FeCoNiOxis reported which is both active and stable for the oxygen evolution reaction under alkaline conditions.
Polyimide thin film composite (TFC) membranes via interfacial polymerization on hydrolyzed polyacrylonitrile support for solvent resistant nanofiltration
Authors: Yang Shanshan , Zhen Hongyan , Su Baowei
Published: September 2017

High performance solvent resistant nanofiltration membranes are fabricated via interfacial polymerization between m-phenylenediamine and 1,2,4,5-benzenetetra acylchloride on hydrolyzed polyacrylonitrile supports followed by chemical imidization.
Size-tunable NaGdF4 nanoparticles as T2 contrast agents for high-field magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Lu Zhigao , Deng Ruijun , Zhen Mingming , Li Xue , Zou Toujun , Zhou Yue , Guan Mirong , Zhang Ying , Wang Yuqing , Yu Tong , Shu Chunying , Wang Chunru
Published: September 2017

It is important to get high-quality magnetic resonance images at high magnetic field (>3 T) for medical diagnoses.
Thio-Michael addition of α,β-unsaturated amides catalyzed by Nmm-based ionic liquids
Authors: Liu Yawei , Lai Zhenzhen , Yang Pengkun , Xu Yuanqing , Zhang Wenkai , Liu Baoying , Lu Minghua , Chang Haibo , Ding Tao , Xu Hao
Published: September 2017

Most substrates work well for this transformation in water, and the IL-catalyst is recyclable and applicable for gram-scale synthesis.
Continuous electroosmotic sorting of particles in grooved microchannels
Authors: Dubov Alexander L. , Molotilin Taras Y. , Vinogradova Olga I.
Published: September 2017

A novel fractionation concept is proposed for spherical particles in grooved microfluidic channels with an electroosmotic flow.
ZnS nanoparticles decorated on nitrogen-doped porous carbon polyhedra: a promising anode material for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Jiabao , Yan Dong , Zhang Xiaojie , Hou Shujin , Lu Ting , Yao Yefeng , Pan Likun
Published: September 2017

A ZIF-8-derived ZnS and nitrogen-doped carbon hybrid was synthesized and applied as an anode material for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries.
A difluorobenzothiadiazole-based conjugated polymer with alkylthiophene as the side chains for efficient, additive-free and thick-film polymer solar cells
Authors: He Mu , Li Miaomiao , Dong Xin , Tian Hongkun , Tong Hui , Liu Jun , Xie Zhiyuan , Geng Yanhou , Wang Fosong
Published: September 2017

A difluorobenzothiadiazole-based polymer P-TT with alkylthiophene side chains diplays a desirable blend film morphology and high PCE with wide processing windows.
Co-intercalation of multiple active units into graphene by pyrolysis of hydrogen-bonded precursors for zinc–air batteries and water splitting
Authors: Huang Yiyin , Liu Qin , Lv Jiangquan , Babu Dickson D. , Wang Wenjing , Wu Maoxiang , Yuan Daqiang , Wang Yaobing
Published: September 2017

A hybrid with multiple active units manifests excellent activities for hydrogen/oxygen redox in Zn–air batteries and water splitting setups.
A sequential enzyme-activated and light-triggered pro-prodrug nanosystem for cancer detection and therapy
Authors: Chen Zelin , Li Bowen , Xie Xin , Zeng Fang , Wu Shuizhu
Published: September 2017

A sequential enzyme-activated and light-triggered pro-prodrug has been developed for cancer biomarker detection and on-demand therapy.
Monomeric and aggregation emissions of tetraphenylethene in a photo-switchable polymer controlled by cyclization of diarylethene and solvent conditions
Authors: Singh Ravinder , Wu Hsin-Yen , Kumar Dwivedi Atul , Singh Ashutosh , Lin Chien-Min , Raghunath Putikam , Lin Ming-Chang , Wu Tung-Kung , Wei Kung-Hwa , Lin Hong-Cheu
Published: September 2017

AIE behaviour of TPE with open and closed forms of DAE in a photo-switchable polymer is studied in high water contents.
Solution-processed diarylfluorene derivatives for violet-blue amplified spontaneous emission and electroluminescence
Authors: Han Ya-Min , Bai Lu-Bing , Yin Cheng-Rong , Ou Chang-Jin , Zhang Xin-Wen , Zuo Zong-Yan , Liu Bin , Yu Meng-Na , Lin Jin-Yi , Zhao Jian-Feng , Zhu Wen-Sai , Liu Yu-Yu , Li Jie-Wei , Wang Jian-Pu , Xie Ling-Hai , Huang Wei
Published: September 2017

A series of solution-processable 4-subsituted diarylfluorene small molecules for violet-blue amplified spontaneous emission and electroluminescence.
Analytical approach for the calculation of promoter activities based on fluorescent protein expression data
Authors: Markakis Konstantinos , De Las Heras Aitor , Elfick Alistair
Published: September 2017

Characterisation of promoters, repressors, enhancers and so on, is not only essential for unravelling the inner workings of gene regulation, but also to enable the rational engineering of novel synthetic elements. Each putative regulatory region requires experimental assessment across a range of chassis and growth conditions, in order to be categorised as a fully defined functional element. In most studies, promoter activity is represented as the magnitude of a reporter signal, usually fluorescence, normalised to the biomass, as given by the optical density (OD). Such experimental values are often obtained from a coupled time‐series experiment. Applying simple mathematical reasoning, a tool that describes promoter activity at each time point has been implemented. Protein expression and maturation, are modelled as first‐order differential equations, taking into account the degradation and maturation rates which need to be known in advance. The promoter activity is then expressed based on the measured values of fluorescence and OD with a formula derived by mathematical manipulations of the defined quantities and the differential equations that comprise the model. Continuous expressions for fluorescence and OD are obtained from Gaussian process regression. Validation of the tool with experimental data from several constructs showed the expected behaviour of promoter activities.
Monolithically integrated power circuits in high‐voltage GaN‐on‐Si heterojunction technology
Authors: Reiner Richard , Waltereit Patrick , Weiss Beatrix , Moench Stefan , Wespel Matthias , Müller Stefan , Quay Rüdiger , Ambacher Oliver
Published: September 2017

This study presents monolithically integrated power circuits, fabricated in a high‐voltage GaN‐on‐Si heterojunction technology. Different advanced concepts are presented and compared with solutions found in the literature. High switching transition slew rates are demonstrated by means of a monolithic power circuit with integrated gate driver. A highly linear temperature sensor is integrated in a GaN‐high‐electron‐mobility transistor (HEMT) power device for the 600 V class and on‐state resistance of 53 mΩ. An area‐efficient HEMT structure with integrated freewheeling diodes is presented. This structure is applied in a monolithic multilevel converter chip, as well as in a 600 V class half‐bridge chip. The multilevel chip is integrated by an advanced printed circuit board embedding technology and tested in inverter operation with a mains voltage output of 120 VRMS. The performance of the half‐bridge is demonstrated in a synchronous buck converter operation from 400 to 200 V and with a switching frequency of 3 MHz.
Review and comparative analysis of vortex generation systems for sustainable electric power production
Authors: Ismaeel Ali A. , Al‐Kayiem Hussain H. , Baheta Aklilu T. , Aurybi Mohammed A.
Published: September 2017

This study presents a review and comparison on the power generation by artificial vortex approach. The basic principles of the artificial vortex theory are presented to comprehend the topic. The main characteristics of the components, working principles and features of the existing Vortex Generator Systems for the production of electricity have been discussed and compared. The literature demonstrates that there are two ways to establish the vortex updraft flow: (i) by constructing a special design of the updraft tower to yield a vertical pressure gradient along the axis of a vortex. These types of system have a high investment cost due to the tall tower, or (ii) by using an external heat source to create large temperature rise in ambient air and enhance the buoyancy forces. This integration between the vortex generation system and the wasted heat source is restricted operation in the industrial areas. Therefore, enhancement and development of the way to use a simple construction design based on the solar energy as a heat source support the technology of electricity production by artificial vortex generation. A solar based vortex power generator could be a potential technology for electric power generation, especially in the desert and rural areas.
Straightforward Strategies for the Preparation of NH-Sulfox­imines: A Serendipitous Story
Authors: Bull James , Luisi Renzo , Degennaro Leonardo
Published: September 2017

Sulfoximines are emerging as valuable new isosteres for use in medicinal chemistry, with the potential to modulate physicochemical properties. Recent developments in synthetic strategies have made the unprotected ‘free’ NH-sulfoximine group more readily available, facilitating further study. This account reviews approaches to NH-sulfoximines, with a focus on our contribution to the field. Starting from the development of catalytic strategies involving transition metals, more sustainable metal-free processes have been discovered. In particular, the use of hypervalent iodine reagents to mediate NH-transfer to sulfoxides is described, along with an assessment of the substrate scope. Furthermore, a one-pot strategy to convert sulfides directly into NH-sulfoximines is discussed, with N- and O-transfer occurring under the reaction conditions. Mechanistic evidence for the new procedures is included as well as relevant synthetic applications that further exemplify the potential of these approaches.

1 Introduction

2 Strategies to Form NH-Sulfoximines Involving Transition-Metal Catalysts

3 Metal-Free Strategies to Prepare NH-Sulfoximines

4 Mechanistic Evidence for the Direct Synthesis of NH-Sulfoximines from Sulfoxides and Sulfides

5 Further Applications

6 Conclusion
KANR bringt Burgfrieden
Authors: Häser Isabel
Published: September 2017

Im Oktober beginnt die Einführung des Entlassmanagements, nachdem sich KBV, DKG und GKV-Spitzenverband geeinigt haben. Die Registrierung der Klinikärzte bei der KBV ist vom Tisch.
90 Jahre Meiko: Saubere Leistung
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: September 2017

Das Offenburger Maschinenbau-Unternehmen Meiko zählt weltweit zu den führenden Anbietern von gewerblicher Spül- und Reinigungstechnik. Wesentlich für den großen Erfolg der baden-württembergischen Firma ist die Kombination aus großer Kundennähe und beständigen technischen Innovationen.
Interview mit Dr. Klaus Irion: „Die zunehmende Digitalisierung hat Einfluss auf die Entwicklungszyklen“
Authors: Mewis Dirk
Published: September 2017

Dr. Klaus Irion, Global Vice President Forschung und Technologie bei der Karl Storz GmbH über Hybridsysteme und das europaweit geltende Medizinproduktegesetz.
37. Tagung TK 2017 „Technik im Krankenhaus“: Intelligente Medizintechnik und smarte Energie: eine Revolution in der Krankenhaustechnik?
Authors: Fouckhardt-Bradt Birgit
Published: September 2017

Genau dieser Frage wird die TK in ihrer diesjährigen Tagung nachgehen. Die beiden Keyspeaker Peter Sander und Alexander Lechleuthner werden mit ihren Vorträgen zum 3-D-Druck im Flugzeugbau und zu Bedrohungen im Krankenhaus durch Breakdown-Szenarien den Spannungsbogen für die Tagung aufbauen.
Irine Jinjikhashvili: Palliativmedizin in Deutschland muss gestärkt werden
Authors: Sickinger Nina
Published: September 2017

Ausländische Mitarbeiter berichten aus deutschen Kliniken Irine Jinjikhashvili (40) stammt aus Georgien und ist Gesundheits- und Krankenpflegerin, Praxisanleiterin und Studentin (Innovative Pflegepraxis an der Uni Witten-Herdecke; Stipendiatin des Helios Klinikums Schwelm).
No Tissue Expression of KRAS or BRAF Mutations in 61 Adult Patients Treated for Esophageal Atresia in Early Childhood
Authors: Ho Tho , Sistonen Saara , Koivusalo Antti , Pakarinen Mikko , Rintala Risto , Stenman Ulf-Hakan , Orpana Arto , Stenman Jakob , Dang Kien
Published: September 2017

Background Previous studies have reported an association among esophageal atresia (EA), Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma later in life.

Objective The objective of the article is to evaluate KRAS and BRAF mutations as potential genetic markers for early detection of malignant transformation, we used an ultrasensitive technique to detect tissue expression of KRAS and BRAF mutations in endoscopic biopsies from 61 adult patients under follow-up after treatment for EA.

Materials and Methods RNA was extracted from 112 fresh-frozen endoscopic tissue biopsies from 61 adult patients treated for EA in early childhood. RNA was reverse transcribed using the extendable blocking probe reverse transcription method. KRAS codons 12 and 13, as well as BRAF mutations were detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results No mutations of KRAS codon 12, KRAS codon 13, or BRAF were found in 112 endoscopic biopsy samples from 61 patients.

Conclusion Despite the presence of histological findings indicating long-standing gastroesophageal reflux in 25%, as well as symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux in more than 40%, there was no detectable tissue expression of KRAS or BRAF mutations in this cohort of patients.
Corrective Intra-articular Osteotomies for Tibial Plateau Malunion
Authors: Schatzker Joseph , Kfuri Mauricio
Published: September 2017

Anatomical reduction of the articular surface, restoration of mechanical axis, and containment of articular rim are the goals of the treatment of tibial plateau fractures, with an ultimate aim to restore joint congruity and stability. Tibial plateau malunions or nonunions are a result of a failed treatment. This article aims to review the most typical failure models and some strategies to overcome them by using joint preservation surgical techniques.
Growth among Twins: Use of Singleton versus Twin-Specific Growth Nomograms
Authors: Mendez-Figueroa Hector , Truong Van , Pedroza Claudia , Chauhan Suneet
Published: September 2017

Objective We hypothesized that utilization of a twin-specific nomograms, when compared with one based on singleton data, is less likely to classify twins as having abnormal growth and more likely to identify perinatal morbidity and mortality.

Materials and Methods Data were culled from seven Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU) studies, the included twin gestations in their study population. Each newborn twin's birth weight percentile was categorized using Alexander et al (singleton data) and Ananth et al (twin data) nomogram. Logistic regression models were adjusted for maternal race and body mass index, neonatal sex, study, and twin correlation.

Results More twins were categorized as small for gestational age (SGA) when singleton nomogram was used (33%) compared with twin nomogram (4%). The use of singleton nomogram revealed a higher composite neonatal morbidity (CNM) and stillbirth rates among SGA twins but a similar neonatal mortality rate when compared with appropriate for gestational age. Correspondingly, when twin-specific nomogram was utilized, the CNM, odds of stillbirth, and neonatal mortality were higher among SGA twins. The rate of large for gestational age among twins was increased with the use of twin-specific nomograms.

Conclusion Utilization of twin-specific nomogram is less likely to categorize twins as SGA and more likely to identify those at risk for stillbirth and neonatal mortality.
Akute Flankenschmerzen im Kindes- und Jugendalter
Authors: Ebert Anne-Karoline
Published: September 2017

Akute Flankenschmerzen im Kindes- und Jugendalter stellen eine klinisch anspruchsvolle Differenzialdiagnose dar. Neben einer sorgfältigen Anamnese und klinischen Untersuchung sowie Urin- und Laboruntersuchungen ist im Kindesalter der Ultraschall oft wegweisend. Im vorliegenden Artikel werden die möglichen zugrundeliegenden Krankheitsbilder mit spezifisch diagnostischen und therapeutischen Überlegungen dargestellt.
Preoperative biliary drainage by plastic or self-expandable metal stents in patients with periampullary tumors: results of a randomized clinical study
Authors: Olsson Greger , Frozanpor Farshad , Lundell Lars , Enochsson Lars , Ansorge Christoph , Del Chiaro Marco , Reuterwall-Hansson Marcus , Shetye Alysha , Arnelo Urban
Published: September 2017

Background and study aims Preoperative biliary drainage in patients with periampullary tumors and jaundice has been popularized to improve the quality of life and minimize the risks associated with subsequent radical surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible superiority of self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) over plastic stents, by comparing the amount of bacteria in intraoperatively collected bile and using this variable as a proxy for the efficacy of the respective biliary drainage modalities.

Patients and methods In this randomized clinical trial, 92 patients with obstructive jaundice were enrolled; 45 were allocated to the plastic stent group and 47 to the SEMS group. The primary outcome was the extent and magnitude of biliary bacterial growth at the time of surgical exploration. Secondary outcomes were: macroscopic grading of inflammation of the stented bile ducts, occurrence of adverse events after stenting, stent dysfunction, recognized surgical complexities, and incidence of postoperative complications.

Results The patients were well matched regarding clinical and disease-specific characteristics. At surgery, there were no group differences in the bacterial amount and composition of the bile cultures or the perceived difficulty of surgical dissection. During the preoperative biliary drainage period, more instances of stent dysfunction requiring stent replacement were recorded in the plastic stent group (19 % vs. 0 %; P = 0.03). Postoperative complications in patients who underwent curative surgery were more common in patients with plastic stents (72 % vs. 52 %), among which clinically significant leakage from the pancreatic anastomoses seemed to predominate (12 % vs. 3.7 %); however, none of these differences in postoperative adverse events reached statistical significance.

Conclusion This randomized clinical study was unable to demonstrate any superiority of SEMS in the efficacy of preoperative bile drainage, as assessed by the amount of bacteria in the intraoperatively collected bile. However, some data in favor of SEMS were observed among the clinical secondary outcomes variables (preoperative stent exchange rates) without increases in local inflammatory reactions.

Trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00501176).
Frühfunktionelles Management bei Hyperextensionstraumata des proximalen Interphalangealgelenkes mit Läsion der palmaren
Platte: Extensionsblock versus Achterschlaufe
Authors: Lunger Alexander , Lunger Lukas , Bach Andrea , Frey Christine , Jandali Abdul Rahman , Sproedt Julia
Published: September 2017

Hintergrund Hyperextensionstraumata des proximalen Interphalangealgelenkes (PIP) sind ein häufiger Vorstellungsgrund in der
handchirurgischen Ambulanz. An unserem Zentrum wurden vor 2011 alle luxationsstabilen Läsionen mittels ergotherapeutisch angepasster
Extensionsblockschienen in 10 ° Flexion nachbehandelt (Gruppe A). Seit 2011 wurden stabile Läsionen ohne signifikanten ossären Ausriss
(definiert als < 30 % betroffener Gelenksfläche) mittels Achterschlaufe/Buddy Taping an den Nachbarfinger versorgt (Gruppe B). Ziel
dieser Arbeit war es, die Behandlungsresultate zu vergleichen.

Patienten und Methoden In diese retrospektive Analyse wurden 44 Patienten eingeschlossen, die im Zeitraum 2009–2012 in unserer
handchirurgischen Ambulanz wegen luxationsstabiler Läsionen der palmaren Platte (Eaton und Littler Typ I und II) behandelt wurden. In Gruppe
A wurden 23 Patienten eingeschlossen, in Gruppe B 21. Beide Therapiegruppen erhielten dorsale Nachtlagerungsschienen in 10 ° Flexion.

Ergebnisse Bezüglich der Behandlungsdauer (p = 0,981), der Anzahl an Behandlungssitzungen (p = 0,271), der total active motion (TAM)
im PIP nach der Behandlung (p = 0,693), dem Extensionsdefizit im PIP nach der Behandlung (p = 0,404), der Dauer bis zur Ergotherapie (p =
0,285) oder dem Schweregrad der Verletzung nach Eaton und Littler (p = 0,241) bestand kein signifikanter Unterschied zwischen den beiden
Gruppen. In der Extensionsblock-Gruppe zeigten 10 (44 %) von 23 Patienten nach einer medianen Behandlungsdauer von 9 (4–10) Wochen ein sehr
gutes, 11 (48 %) ein gutes, 2 (8 %) Patienten ein schlechtes Ergebnis mit 90 ° (85–100) TAM im PIP und keinem Extensionsdefizit. Es wurden
im Median 4 (3–6) Behandlungssitzungen durchgeführt. Von 21 Patienten, die mit Achterschlaufe/Buddy Taping behandelt wurden, erzielten nach
6 (4–13) Wochen 14 Patienten (66 %) ein sehr gutes, 6 (29 %) ein gutes, 1 (5 %) Patient ein schlechtes Ergebnis mit 95 ° (82,5–100 °) TAM
und keinem Extensionsdefizit. Die Art der Therapie zeigte keinen signifikanten Einfluss auf das Ergebnis nach Benke und Stableforth (χ2 =
2,385, df = 3, p = 0,304). Die mediane Anzahl an Behandlungen in Gruppe B betrug 4 (3–5). Kein Patient entwickelte eine palmare
Instabilität.

Schlussfolgerung Keine Therapieoption zeigte sich statistisch der anderen überlegen. In der Praxis erwies sich Achterschlaufe/Buddy
Taping als schneller durchführbar, einfacher und günstiger in der ergotherapeutischen Anpassung und bietet subjektiv mehr Tragekomfort.
Communication: Hypothetical ultralow-density ice polymorphs
Authors: Matsui Takahiro , Hirata Masanori , Yagasaki Takuma , Matsumoto Masakazu , Tanaka Hideki
Published: September 2017

More than 300 kinds of porous ice structures derived from zeolite frameworks and space fullerenes are examined using classical molecular dynamics simulations. It is found that a hypothetical zeolitic ice phase is less dense and more stable than the sparse ice structures reported by Huang et al. [Chem. Phys. Lett. 671, 186 (2017)]. In association with the zeolitic ice structure, even less dense structures, “aeroices,” are proposed. It is found that aeroices are the most stable solid phases of water near the absolute zero temperature under negative pressure.
A coherent discrete variable representation method on a sphere
Authors: Yu Hua-Gen
Published: September 2017

The coherent discrete variable representation (ZDVR) has been extended for constructing a multidimensional potential-optimized DVR basis on a sphere. In order to deal with the non-constant Jacobian in spherical angles, two direct product primitive basis methods are proposed so that the original ZDVR technique can be properly implemented. The method has been demonstrated by computing the lowest states of a two-dimensional (2D) vibrational model. Results show that the extended ZDVR method gives accurate eigenvalues and exponential convergence with increasing ZDVR basis size.
A novel interferometric method for the study of the viscoelastic properties of ultra-thin polymer films determined from nanobubble inflation
Authors: Chapuis P. , Montgomery P. C. , Anstotz F. , Leong-Hoï A. , Gauthier C. , Baschnagel J. , Reiter G. , McKenna G. B. , Rubin A.
Published: September 2017

Glass formation and glassy behavior remain as the important areas of investigation in soft matter physics with many aspects which are still not completely understood, especially at the nanometer size-scale. In the present work, we show an extension of the “nanobubble inflation” method developed by O’Connell and McKenna [Rev. Sci. Instrum. 78, 013901 (2007)] which uses an interferometric method to measure the topography of a large array of 5 μm sized nanometer thick films subjected to constant inflation pressures during which the bubbles grow or creep with time. The interferometric method offers the possibility of making measurements on multiple bubbles at once as well as having the advantage over the AFM methods of O’Connell and McKenna of being a true non-contact method. Here we demonstrate the method using ultra-thin films of both poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) and polystyrene (PS) and discuss the capabilities of the method relative to the AFM method, its advantages and disadvantages. Furthermore we show that the results from experiments on PVAc are consistent with the prior work on PVAc, while high stress results with PS show signs of a new non-linear response regime that may be related to the plasticity of the ultra-thin film.
Quantum wells produce multi-color LED arrays
Authors: Larter Raima
Published: September 2017

Epitaxial growth of semiconductor creates multi-color infrared light-emitting device.
Randomized Pilot Trial Measuring Knowledge Acquisition of Opioid Education in Emergency Department Patients using a Novel Media Platform
Authors: Chakravarthy Bharath , Somasundaram Shashank , Mogi Jennifer , Burns Roshan , Hoonpongsimanont Wirachin , Wiechmann Warren , Lotfipour Shahram
Published: September 2017

Background

The number of active opioid analgesic prescriptions has risen steadily, causing increases in nonmedical opioid use, addiction, and overdose. Insufficient focus on patient discharge instructions has contributed to lack of patient awareness regarding dangers of opioids. This study examines whether an educational Khan Academy–style animation discharge instruction on the dangers and safe usage of opioid analgesics elicits higher knowledge acquisition than current standard of care. Additionally, it measures the feasibility of implementing this video discharge instruction in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

Fifty-two English-speaking patients aged 18 years or older receiving an opioid prescription were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomized into 2 groups. The standard of care group received verbal instruction and an informational sheet, whereas the video animation group received a 6-minute video on proper usage of opioids in addition to standard of care. Video content was sourced from samhsa.gov and administered within the ED prior to discharge. Both groups received a 26-question test regarding the dangers and safe usage of opioids immediately after education. An unpaired t test compared knowledge acquisition between the 2 groups.

Results

Fifty-four patients were approached, 52 patients enrolled; 27 in the standard group and 25 in the animation group. The standard of care group averaged 65% knowledge acquisition (16.8/26 correct), whereas the animation group averaged 82% acquisition (21.2/26 correct). The video animation significantly increased patient knowledge acquisition about opioid medications’ risks and proper usage and disposal ( P = .001).

Conclusion

It can be concluded that medical knowledge acquisition is improved in the video animation group compared with the current standard of care ( P = .001). It can also be concluded that it is feasible to implement a novel media platform to educate patients receiving opioid analgesics in the ED (96.1%).
Class and politics in twenty-first century Norway: a homology of positions and position-taking
Authors: Flemmen Magne Paalgard , Haakestad Hedda
Published: September 2017

This article draws on Pierre Bourdieu's rethinking of social class to investigate the connection between class and politics in contemporary society. We introduce a new class scheme that incorporates an often neglected hallmark of Bourdieu's approach, namely the distinction between class fractions based on the preponderance of economic or cultural capital possessed. By relating our two-dimensional concept of class to a two-dimensional political space, we will show that the relationship between class and politics is homological – the systems of class divisions and political divisions exhibit a corresponding structure. The hierarchical dimension of class is associated with the divide between liberal and anti-liberal views on what is sometimes dubbed ‘new’ politics, whereas the capital composition dimension is connected with the classical left vs. right divide in terms of issues of redistribution, social spending and government interventions in the economy. We conclude by discussing whether political attitudes should be seen as a form of taste and as such on par with cultural tastes.
Lipidomics profiling reveals the role of glycerophospholipid metabolism in psoriasis
Authors: Zeng Chunwei , Wen Bo , Hou Guixue , Lei Li , Mei Zhanlong , Jia Xuekun , Chen Xiaomin , Zhu Wu , Li Jie , Kuang Yehong , Zeng Weiqi , Su Juan , Liu Siqi , Peng Cong , Chen Xiang
Published: September 2017

Psoriasis is a common and chronic inflammatory skin disease that is complicated by gene–environment interactions. Although genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic analyses have been performed to investigate the pathogenesis of psoriasis, the role of metabolites in psoriasis, particularly of lipids, remains unclear. Lipids not only comprise the bulk of the cellular membrane bilayers but also regulate a variety of biological processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, immunity, angiogenesis, and inflammation. In this study, an untargeted lipidomics approach was used to study the lipid profiles in psoriasis and to identify lipid metabolite signatures for psoriasis through ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry. Plasma samples from 90 participants (45 healthy and 45 psoriasis patients) were collected and analyzed. Statistical analysis was applied to find different metabolites between the disease and healthy groups. In addition, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to validate differentially expressed lipids in psoriatic patient plasma. Finally, we identified differential expression of several lipids including lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), lysophosphatidylcholine (LysoPC), phosphatidylinositol (PI), phosphatidylcholine (PC), and phosphatidic acid (PA); among these metabolites, LPA, LysoPC, and PA were significantly increased, while PC and PI were down-regulated in psoriasis patients. We found that elements of glycerophospholipid metabolism such as LPA, LysoPC, PA, PI, and PC were significantly altered in the plasma of psoriatic patients; this study characterizes the circulating lipids in psoriatic patients and provides novel insight into the role of lipids in psoriasis.
Taxonomic structure and functional association of foxtail millet root microbiome
Authors: Jin Tao , Wang Yayu , Huang Yueying , Xu Jin , Zhang Pengfan , Wang Nian , Liu Xin , Chu Haiyan , Liu Guang , Jiang Honggang , Li Yuzhen , Xu Jing , Kristiansen Karsten , Xiao Liang , Zhang Yunzeng , Zhang Gengyun , Du Guohua , Zhang Houbao , Zou Hongfeng , Zhang Haifeng , Jie Zhuye , Liang Suisha , Jia Huijue , Wan Jingwang , Lin Dechun , Li Jinying , Fan Guangyi , Yang Huanming , Wang Jian , Bai Yang , Xu Xun
Published: September 2017

The root microbes play pivotal roles in plant productivity, nutrient uptakes, and disease resistance. The root microbial community structure has been extensively investigated by 16S/18S/ITS amplicons and metagenomic sequencing in crops and model plants. However, the functional associations between root microbes and host plant growth are poorly understood. This work investigates the root bacterial community of foxtail millet (Setaria italica) and its potential effects on host plant productivity. We determined the bacterial composition of 2882 samples from foxtail millet rhizoplane, rhizosphere and corresponding bulk soils from 2 well-separated geographic locations by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. We identified 16 109 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), and defined 187 OTUs as shared rhizoplane core OTUs. The β-diversity analysis revealed that microhabitat was the major factor shaping foxtail millet root bacterial community, followed by geographic locations. Large-scale association analysis identified the potential beneficial bacteria correlated with plant high productivity. Besides, the functional prediction revealed specific pathways enriched in foxtail millet rhizoplane bacterial community. We systematically described the root bacterial community structure of foxtail millet and found its core rhizoplane bacterial members. Our results demonstrated that host plants enrich specific bacteria and functions in the rhizoplane. The potentially beneficial bacteria may serve as a valuable knowledge foundation for bio-fertilizer development in agriculture.
Virtual Reality Tumor Resection: The Force Pyramid Approach
Authors: Sawaya Robin , Bugdadi Abdulgadir , Azarnoush Hamed , Winkler-Schwartz Alexander , Alotaibi Fahad E , Bajunaid Khalid , AlZhrani Gmaan A , Alsideiri Ghusn , Sabbagh Abdulrahman J , Del Maestro Rolando F
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

The force pyramid is a novel visual representation allowing spatial delineation of instrument force application during surgical procedures. In this study, the force pyramid concept is employed to create and quantify dominant hand, nondominant hand, and bimanual force pyramids during resection of virtual reality brain tumors.

OBJECTIVE

To address 4 questions: Do ergonomics and handedness influence force pyramid structure? What are the differences between dominant and nondominant force pyramids? What is the spatial distribution of forces applied in specific tumor quadrants? What differentiates “expert” and “novice” groups regarding their force pyramids?

METHODS

Using a simulated aspirator in the dominant hand and a simulated sucker in the nondominant hand, 6 neurosurgeons and 14 residents resected 8 different tumors using the CAE NeuroVR virtual reality neurosurgical simulation platform (CAE Healthcare, Montréal, Québec and the National Research Council Canada, Boucherville, Québec). Position and force data were used to create force pyramids and quantify tumor quadrant force distribution.

RESULTS

Force distribution quantification demonstrates the critical role that handedness and ergonomics play on psychomotor performance during simulated brain tumor resections. Neurosurgeons concentrate their dominant hand forces in a defined crescent in the lower right tumor quadrant. Nondominant force pyramids showed a central peak force application in all groups. Bimanual force pyramids outlined the combined impact of each hand. Distinct force pyramid patterns were seen when tumor stiffness, border complexity, and color were altered.

CONCLUSION

Force pyramids allow delineation of specific tumor regions requiring greater psychomotor ability to resect. This information can focus and improve resident technical skills training.
Succinoglycan Production Contributes to Acidic pH Tolerance inSinorhizobium melilotiRm1021
Authors: Hawkins Justin P. , Geddes Barney A. , Oresnik Ivan J.
Published: September 2017

In this work, the hypothesis that exopolysaccharide plays a role in the survival of Sinorhizobium meliloti at low pH levels is addressed. When S. meliloti was grown at pH 5.75, synthesis of succinoglycan increased, whereas synthesis of galactoglucan decreased. Succinoglycan that was isolated from cultures grown at low pH had a lower degree of polymerization relative to that which was isolated from cultures grown at neutral pH, suggesting that low–molecular weight (LMW) succinoglycan might play a role in adaptation to low pH. Mutants unable to produce succinoglycan or only able to produce high–molecular weight polysaccharide were found to be sensitive to low pH. However, strains unable to produce LMW polysaccharide were 10-fold more sensitive. In response to low pH, transcription of genes encoding proteins for succinoglycan, glycogen, and cyclic β(1-2) glucans biosynthesis increased, while those encoding proteins necessary for the biosynthesis of galactoglucan decreased. While changes in pH did not affect the production of glycogen or cyclic β(1-2) glucan, it was found that the inability to produce cyclic β(1-2) glucan did contribute to pH tolerance in the absence of succinoglycan. Finally, in addition to being sensitive to low pH, a strain carrying mutations in exoK and exsH, which encode the glycanases responsible for the cleavage of succinoglycan to LMW succinoglycan, exhibited a delay in nodulation and was uncompetitive for nodule occupancy. Taken together, the data suggest that the role for LMW succinoglycan in nodule development may be to enhance survival in the colonized curled root hair.
A Culture-Independent PCR-Based Assay to Detect the Root Rot Pathogen Fusarium solani Species Complex 11 from Soybean Roots and Soil
Authors: Chitrampalam Periasamy , Abraham Nivi , Nelson Berlin D.
Published: September 2017

Fusarium solani species complex (FSSC) 11 is the primary phylogenetic species of FSSC causing root rot in soybean in the north-central United States. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay was developed to identify and differentiate FSSC 11 from the less aggressive FSSC 5 and other Fusarium and Pythium spp. associated with soybean roots. The primer set FSSC11-F and FSSC11-R designed from the RNA polymerase second largest subunit gene yielded the expected amplicon of about 900 bp with DNA from all 22 FSSC 11 isolates tested in PCR. However, it did not produce an amplicon with DNA from 29 isolates of FSSC 5, seven other Fusarium spp., three Pythium spp., and soybean tested in PCR. Furthermore, the primer set successfully detected FSSC 11 from a DNA mixture containing the DNA of FSSC 11, FSSC 5, other Fusarium spp., and soybean. The primer set also detected FSSC 11 from both soil and soybean roots. Additionally, the prevalence of FSSC 11 in soybean roots was determined in five fields in North Dakota by both a culture-independent PCR approach with FSSC11-F and FSSC11-R and a culture-dependent approach. Results from both the culture-dependent and culture-independent approaches with FSSC11-F and FSSC11-R were consistent and revealed the presence of the FSSC 11 in three of five fields sampled.
Provably trustworthy systems
Authors: Klein Gerwin , Andronick June , Keller Gabriele , Matichuk Daniel , Murray Toby , O'Connor Liam
Published: September 2017

We present recent work on building and scaling trustworthy systems with formal, machine-checkable proof from the ground up, including the operating system kernel, at the level of binary machine code. We first give a brief overview of the seL4 microkernel verification and how it can be used to build verified systems. We then show two complementary techniques for scaling these methods to larger systems: proof engineering, to estimate verification effort; and code/proof co-generation, for scalable development of provably trustworthy applications.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Verified trustworthy software systems’.
Position paper: the science of deep specification
Authors: Appel Andrew W. , Beringer Lennart , Chlipala Adam , Pierce Benjamin C. , Shao Zhong , Weirich Stephanie , Zdancewic Steve
Published: September 2017

We introduce our efforts within the project ‘The science of deep specification’ to work out the key formal underpinnings of industrial-scale formal specifications of software and hardware components, anticipating a world where large verified systems are routinely built out of smaller verified components that are also used by many other projects. We identify an important class of specification that has already been used in a few experiments that connect strong component-correctness theorems across the work of different teams. To help popularize the unique advantages of that style, we dub itdeep specification, and we say that it encompasses specifications that arerich,two-sided,formalandlive(terms that we define in the article). Our core team is developing a proof-of-concept system (based on the Coq proof assistant) whose specification and verification work is divided across largely decoupled subteams at our four institutions, encompassing hardware microarchitecture, compilers, operating systems and applications, along with cross-cutting principles and tools for effective specification. We also aim to catalyse interest in the approach, not just by basic researchers but also by users in industry.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Verified trustworthy software systems’.
Neurophysiological signatures of duration and rhythm prediction across sensory modalities
Authors: Chang Acer Y.-C. , Seth Anil K. , Roseboom Warrick
Published: September 2017

Effective behaviour and cognition requires the ability to make predictions about the temporal properties of events, such as duration. It is well known that violations of temporal structure within sequences of stimuli lead to neurophysiological effects known as the (temporal) mismatch negativity (TMMN). However, previous studies investigating this phenomenon have typically presented successive stimulus intervals (i.e., durations) within a rhythmic structure, conflating the contributions of rhythmic temporal processing with those specific to duration. In a novel behavioural paradigm which extends the classic temporal oddball design, we examined the neurophysiological correlates of prediction violation under both rhythmically (isochronous) and arrhythmically (anisochronous) presented durations, in visual and auditory modalities. Using event-related potential (ERP), multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA), and temporal generalisation analysis (TGA) analyses, we found evidence for common, and distinct neurophysiological responses related to duration predictions and their violation, across isochronous and anisochronous conditions. Further, using TGA we could directly compare processes underlying duration prediction violation across different modalities, despite differences in processing latency of audition and vision. We discovered a common set of neurophysiological responses that are elicited whenever a duration prediction is violated, regardless of presentation modality, indicating the existence of a supramodal duration prediction mechanism. Altogether, our data show that the human brain encodes predictions specifically about duration, in addition to those from rhythmic structure, and that the neural underpinnings of these predictions generalize across modalities. These findings support the idea that time perception is based on similar principles of inference as characterize ‘predictive processing’ theories of perception.
Characterization of antioxidant properties and metabolite profile of Agave atrovirens extracts
Authors: Olvera-Garcia Victor , Granado-Serrano Ana Belen , Jove Mariona , Cassanye Anna , Cardador-Martinez Anaberta , Portero-Otin Manuel , Serrano Jose
Published: September 2017

Agave spp. is widely analyzed because several functional properties have been described. Some minor bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, saponins and Maillard compounds produced during extraction procedures have been reported to exert antioxidant properties. The objective of this study was to elucidate the antioxidant properties of three different Agave atrovirens extracts in a HepG2 cell culture assay. The three extracts analyzed mostly showed antioxidant properties with an increase in NRF2 content in nuclear extracts. However, a differential response was observed in the reduction of protein oxidative damage in the three extracts analyzed, the crude extract being the one that mainly induced a reduction in oxidative damage. Metabolomic analysis was performed to elucidate the potential molecules responsible for the antioxidant properties, where 2-amino-4-methylphenol could be the main candidate responsible for inducing the transcription of cellular antioxidant response elements. It could be concluded that crude extract of Agave atrovirens may increase the cellular antioxidant defense system, with a reduction in oxidative damage.
The mechanisms of gene regulatory networks constrain evolution: A lesson from synthetic circuits
Authors: Schaerli Yolanda , Jiménez Alba , Duarte José M. , Mihajlovic Ljiljana , Renggli Julien , Isalan Mark , Sharpe James , Wagner Andreas
Published: September 2017

Phenotypic variation is the raw material of adaptive Darwinian evolution. The phenotypic variation found in organismal development is biased towards certain phenotypes, but the molecular mechanisms behind such restrictions are still poorly understood. Gene regulatory networks have been proposed as one cause of constrained phenotypic variation. However, most of the evidence for this is theoretical rather than experimental. Here, we study evolutionary biases in two synthetic gene regulatory circuits expressed inE. colithat produce a gene expression stripe - a pivotal pattern in embryonic development. The two parental circuits produce the same phenotype, but create it through different regulatory mechanisms. We show that mutations cause distinct novel phenotypes in the two networks and use a combination of experimental measurements, mathematical modelling and DNA sequencing to understand why mutations bring forth only some but not other novel gene expression phenotypes. Our results reveal that the regulatory mechanisms of networks restrict the possible phenotypic variation upon mutation. Consequently, seemingly equivalent networks can indeed be distinct in how they constrain the outcome of further evolution.
Largely unlinked gene sets targeted by selection for domestication syndrome phenotypes in maize and sorghum
Authors: Lai Xianjun , Yan Lang , Lu Yanli , Schnable James C.
Published: September 2017

The domestication of diverse grain crops from wild grasses resulted from artificial selection for a suite of overlapping traits producing changes referred to in aggregate as ”domestication syndrome”. Parallel phenotypic change can be accomplished by either selection on orthologous genes, or selection on non-orthologous genes with parallel phenotypic effects. To determine how often artificial selection for domestication traits in the grasses targeted orthologous genes, we employed resequencing data from wild and domesticated accessions of Zea (maize) and Sorghum (sorghum). Many ”classic” domestication genes identified through QTL mapping in populations resulting from wild/domesticated crosses indeed show signatures of parallel selection in both maize and sorghum. However, the overall number of genes showing signatures of parallel selection in both species is not significantly different from that expected by chance. This suggests that, while a small number of genes will extremely large phenotypic effects have been targeted repeatedly by artificial selection during domestication, the optimization portion of domestication targeted small and largely non-overlapping subsets of all possible genes which could produce equivalent phenotypic alterations.
BioXTAS RAW: improvements to a free open-source program for small-angle X-ray scattering data reduction and analysis
Authors: Hopkins Jesse Bennett , Gillilan Richard E. , Skou Soren
Published: September 2017

BioXTAS RAWis a graphical-user-interface-based free open-source Python program for reduction and analysis of small-angle X-ray solution scattering (SAXS) data. The software is designed for biological SAXS data and enables creation and plotting of one-dimensional scattering profiles from two-dimensional detector images, standard data operations such as averaging and subtraction and analysis of radius of gyration and molecular weight, and advanced analysis such as calculation of inverse Fourier transforms and envelopes. It also allows easy processing of inline size-exclusion chromatography coupled SAXS data and data deconvolution using the evolving factor analysis method. It provides an alternative to closed-source programs such asPrimusandScÅtterfor primary data analysis. Because it can calibrate, mask and integrate images it also provides an alternative to synchrotron beamline pipelines that scientists can install on their own computers and use both at home and at the beamline.