bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
English as a Foreign Language in Bilingual Language‐minority Children, Children with Dyslexia and Monolingual Typical Readers
Authors: Bonifacci Paola , Canducci Elisa , Gravagna Giulia , Palladino Paola
Published: February 2017

The present study was aimed at investigating literacy skills in English as a foreign language in three different groups of children: monolinguals with dyslexia (n = 19), typically developing bilinguals (language‐minority) (n = 19) and a control group of monolinguals (Italian) (n = 76). Bilinguals were not expected to fail in English measures, and their gap with monolinguals would be expected to be limited to the instructional language, owing to underexposure. All participants were enrolled in Italian primary schools (fourth and fifth grades). A non‐verbal reasoning task and Italian and English literacy tasks were administered. The Italian battery included word and non‐word reading (speed and accuracy), word and non‐word writing, and reading comprehension; the English battery included similar tasks, except for the non‐word writing. Bilingual children performed similarly to typical readers in English tasks, whereas in Italian tasks, their performance was similar to that of typical readers in reading speed but not in reading accuracy and writing. Children with dyslexia underperformed compared with typically developing children in all English and Italian tasks, except for reading comprehension in Italian. Profile analysis and correlational analyses were further discussed. These results suggest that English as a foreign language might represent a challenge for students with dyslexia but a strength for bilingual language‐minority children. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organization of Copper Azide Clusters into Two‐Dimensional Structures: Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Mistry Subhradeep , Yashonath Subramanian , Natarajan Srinivasan
Published: February 2017

Three new copper azide compounds, [Cu5(N3)10(N‐2AE‐1,3‐DAP)2] (I), [Cu5(N3)10(N‐3AP‐1,3‐DAP)2] (II), and [Cu7(N3)16(1‐(2‐AE)PIP‐H)2] (III) {where N‐2AE‐1,3‐DAP = N‐2‐aminoethyl‐1,3‐propanediamine, N‐3AP‐1,3‐DAP = N‐3‐aminopropyl‐1,3‐propanediamine, and 1‐(2‐AE)PIP = 1‐(2‐aminoethyl)piperazine} have been prepared by employing aliphatic amine molecules as coordination blocking amines. All the structures are built up by copper azide units linked through a copper–amine metalloligand, forming two‐dimensional layers. Compounds I and II have linear copper azide chains, whereas compound III has Cu5 linear units. The structures of I and II are identical except for the blocking amine molecule. The blocking amine molecule in III is protonated, which is rarely observed. Magnetic studies indicate antiferromagnetic behavior with possible metamagnet‐like features in all the compounds.
Liquid Metals as Efficient High‐Temperature Heat‐Transport Fluids
Authors: Heinzel Annette , Hering Wolfgang , Konys Jürgen , Marocco Luca , Litfin Karsten , Müller Georg , Pacio Julio , Schroer Carsten , Stieglitz Robert , Stoppel Leonid , Weisenburger Alfons , Wetzel Thomas
Published: February 2017

Liquid metals appear to be attractive heat‐transport fluids, in particular if looking at their high thermal conductivities and low viscosities. Despite some pioneering technical applications in the past, complex handling, special requirements, safety concerns, and structural degradation of the materials have prevented their widespread application. However, progress in research and development on liquid‐metal science and technology has advanced considerably in the last decade, and this has opened the gate to their broader use in the short term. This requires a more differentiated view on liquid metals, particularly on the specific properties of individual fluids within the context of specific applications. By doing so, many commonly mentioned prejudices vanish or are of minor significance. At the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, a comprehensive research program on liquid‐metal technology has been pursued for more than 50 years, and some of the advances in different applications will be outlined in this article.
Direct finite element method for nonlinear analysis of semi‐unbounded dam–water–foundation rock systems
Authors: Løkke Arnkjell , Chopra Anil K.
Published: February 2017

A direct finite element method is presented for nonlinear earthquake analysis of interacting dam–water–foundation rock systems. The analysis procedure applies viscous damper absorbing boundaries to truncate the semi‐unbounded fluid and foundation‐rock domains and specifies at these boundaries effective earthquake forces determined from the design ground motion defined at a control point on the free surface. The analysis procedure is validated numerically by computing the frequency response functions and transient response of an idealized dam–water–foundation rock system and comparing with results from the substructure method. Because the analysis procedure is applicable to nonlinear systems, it allows for modeling of concrete cracking, as well as sliding and separation at construction joints, lift joints, and at concrete–rock interfaces. Implementation of the procedure is facilitated by commercial finite element software with nonlinear material models that permit modeling of viscous damper boundaries and specification of effective earthquake forces at these boundaries. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Less is more: Neural activity during very brief and clearly visible exposure to phobic stimuli
Authors: Siegel Paul , Warren Richard , Wang Zhishun , Yang Jie , Cohen Don , Anderson Jason F. , Murray Lilly , Peterson Bradley S.
Published: February 2017

Research on automatic processes in fear has emphasized the provocation of fear responses rather than their attenuation. We have previously shown that the repeated presentation of feared images without conscious awareness via backward masking reduces avoidance of a live tarantula in spider‐phobic participants. Herein we investigated the neural basis for these adaptive effects of masked exposure. 21 spider‐phobic and 21 control participants, identified by a psychiatric interview, fear questionnaire, and approaching a live tarantula, viewed stimuli in each of three conditions: (1) very brief exposure (VBE) to masked images of spiders, severely limited awareness; (2) clearly visible exposure (CVE) to spiders, full awareness; and (3) masked images of flowers (control), severely limited awareness. Only VBE to masked spiders generated neural activity more strongly in phobic than in control participants, within subcortical fear, attention, higher‐order language, and vision systems. Moreover, VBE activated regions that support fear processing in phobic participants without causing them to experience fear consciously. Counter‐intuitively, CVE to the same spiders generated stronger neural activity in control rather than phobic participants within these and other systems. CVE deactivated regions supporting fear regulation and caused phobic participants to experience fear. CVE‐induced activations also correlated with measures of explicit fear ratings, whereas VBE‐induced activations correlated with measures of implicit fear (color‐naming interference of spider words). These multiple dissociations between the effects of VBE and CVE to spiders suggest that limiting awareness of exposure to phobic stimuli through visual masking paradoxically facilitates their processing, while simultaneously minimizing the experience of fear. Hum Brain Mapp 38:2466–2481, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Case‐control study of cumulative cigarette tar exposure and lung and upper aerodigestive tract cancers
Authors: Meyers Travis J. , Chang Shen‐Chih , Chang Po‐Yin , Morgenstern Hal , Tashkin Donald P. , Rao Jian‐Yu , Cozen Wendy , Mack Thomas M. , Zhang Zuo‐Feng
Published: February 2017

The development of comprehensive measures for tobacco exposure is crucial to specify effects on disease and inform public health policy. In this population‐based case‐control study, we evaluated the associations between cumulative lifetime cigarette tar exposure and cancers of the lung and upper aerodigestive tract (UADT). The study included 611 incident cases of lung cancer; 601 cases of UADT cancers (oropharyngeal, laryngeal and esophageal cancers); and 1,040 cancer‐free controls. We estimated lifetime exposure to cigarette tar based on tar concentrations abstracted from government cigarette records and self‐reported smoking histories derived from a standardized questionnaire. We analyzed the associations for cumulative tar exposure with lung and UADT cancer, overall and according to histological subtype. Cumulative tar exposure was highly correlated with pack‐years among ever smoking controls (Pearson coefficient = 0.90). The adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence limits) for the estimated effect of about 1 kg increase in tar exposure (approximately the interquartile range in all controls) was 1.61 (1.50, 1.73) for lung cancer and 1.21 (1.13, 1.29) for UADT cancers. In general, tar exposure was more highly associated with small, squamous and large cell lung cancer than adenocarcinoma. With additional adjustment for pack‐years, positive associations between tar and lung cancer were evident, particularly for small cell and large cell subtypes. Therefore, incorporating the composition of tobacco carcinogens in lifetime smoking exposure may improve lung cancer risk estimation. This study does not support the claim of a null or inverse association between “low exposure” to tobacco smoke and risk of these cancer types.
Supportive psychotherapy or client education alongside surgical procedures to correct complications of female genital mutilation: A systematic review
Authors: Abayomi Olukayode , Chibuzor Moriam T. , Okusanya Babasola O. , Esu Ekpereonne , Odey Edward , Meremikwu Martin M.
Published: February 2017

Background

Supportive psychotherapy, in individual or group settings, may help improve surgical outcomes for women and girls living with female genital mutilation (FGM).

Objectives

To assess whether supportive psychotherapy given alongside surgical procedures to correct complications of FGM improves clinical outcomes.

Search strategy

We searched major databases including CENTRAL, Medline, African Index Medicus, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, and others. There were no language restrictions. We checked the reference lists of retrieved studies for additional reports of relevant studies.

Selection criteria

We included studies of girls and women living with any type of FGM who received supportive psychotherapy or client education sessions alongside any surgical procedure to correct health complications from FGM.

Data collection and analysis

Two team members independently screened studies for eligibility.

Main results

There were no eligible studies identified.

Conclusions

There is no direct evidence for the benefits or harms of supportive psychotherapy alongside surgical procedures for women and girls living with FGM. Research evidence is urgently needed to guide clinical practice.

PROSPERO registration

42015024639.
Preclinical safety assessments of nano‐sized constructs on cardiovascular system toxicity: A case for telemetry
Authors: Cheah Hoay Yan , Kiew Lik Voon , Lee Hong Boon , Japundžić‐Žigon Nina , Vicent Marίa J. , Hoe See Ziau , Chung Lip Yong
Published: February 2017

While nano‐sized construct (NSC) use in medicine has grown significantly in recent years, reported unwanted side effects have raised safety concerns. However, the toxicity of NSCs to the cardiovascular system (CVS) and the relative merits of the associated evaluation methods have not been thoroughly studied. This review discusses the toxicological profiles of selected NSCs and provides an overview of the assessment methods, including in silico, in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo models and how they are related to CVS toxicity. We conclude the review by outlining the merits of telemetry coupled with spectral analysis, baroreceptor reflex sensitivity analysis and echocardiography as an appropriate integrated strategy for the assessment of the acute and chronic impact of NSCs on the CVS. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flexible polygon‐mirror based laser scanning microscope platform for multiphoton in‐vivo imaging
Authors: Li Y. X. , Gautam V. , Brüstle A. , Cockburn I. A. , Daria V. R. , Gillespie C. , Gaus K. , Alt C. , Lee W. M.
Published: February 2017

Commercial microscopy systems make use of tandem scanning i.e. either slow or fast scanning. We constructed, for the first time, an advanced control system capable of delivering a dynamic line scanning speed ranging from 2.7 kHz to 27 kHz and achieve variable frame rates from 5 Hz to 50 Hz (512 × 512). The dynamic scanning ability is digitally controlled by a new customized open‐source software named PScan1.0. This permits manipulation of scanning rates either to gain higher fluorescence signal at slow frame rate without increasing laser power or increase frame rates to capture high speed events. By adjusting imaging speed from 40 Hz to 160 Hz, we capture a range of calcium waves and transient peaks from soma and dendrite of single fluorescence neuron (CAL‐520AM). Motion artifacts arising from respiratory and cardiac motion in small animal imaging reduce quality of real‐time images of single cells in‐vivo. An image registration algorithm, integrated with PScan1.0, was shown to perform both real time and post‐processed motion correction. The improvement is verified by quantification of blood flow rates. This work describes all the steps necessary to develop a high performance and flexible polygon‐mirror based multiphoton microscope system for in‐vivo biological imaging.

magnified image
Synthesis and Characterization of [Zn‐Al] Layered Double Hydroxides: Effect of the Operating Parameters
Authors: Abderrazek Kaouther , Frini Srasra Najoua , Srasra Ezzeddine
Published: February 2017

In this study, [Zn‐Al] layered double hydroxides (LDHs) were prepared using the coprecipitation method at constant pH. The synthesis parameters (including the aging time, synthesis pH, nature of the alkali, concentration of metallic salts, and the cationic molar ratio R = Zn/Al) were varied in order to elucidate their effect on the properties of the obtained materials. Different characterization techniques, namely X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetric analysis‐differential thermogravimetry, transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray, inductively coupled plasma, and photoluminescence, were used in this study. It was found that obtaining well‐crystallized LDHs requires (i) an aging time of 24 h and (ii) a synthesis pH value in the range 8–12. Our results also show that the concentration of the cationic metallic salts has no influence on the structural properties of the LDHs. The use of NH4OH as alkali for adjusting the pH value during the synthesis favors the formation of nitrated LDH phases while NaOH gives rise to carbonated ones. Moreover, it was found that irrespective of the molar cationic ratio used (between 1 and 5), [Zn‐Al] LDHs could be obtained. The sample synthesized at R = 2 exhibited the best crystallinity.
Efficient co‐production of S‐adenosylmethionine and glutathione by Candida utilis: effect of dissolved oxygen on enzyme activity and energy supply
Authors: Li Dechao , Wang Dahui , Wei Gongyuan
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

As both S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM) and glutathione (GSH) are biosynthesized with ATP consumption in yeast cells, their efficient co‐production not only depends on high activities of key enzymes, but also on sufficient energy supply. In this study, dissolved oxygen (DO) was optimized to improve enzyme activity and energy supply for high co‐production of SAM and GSH.

RESULTS

Batch culture of Candida utilis CCTCC M 209298 under different DO control modes was carried out in a 5 L stirred fermentor. Based on the analyses of kinetic parameters and metabolic fluxes of key nodes involved in the metabolism of SAM and GSH, a two‐stage DO control strategy with an initial agitation rate of 350 rpm followed by a constant DO level of 30% was designed for the overproduction of SAM and GSH. A maximum co‐production of SAM and GSH of 593.9 mg L−1 was achieved using the two‐stage DO control strategy, which was much higher than that obtained from other DO control modes.

CONCLUSION

Physiological mechanism analysis revealed that the improved co‐production of SAM and GSH was closely related to the increase in key enzyme activities and sufficient energy supply under the two‐stage DO control strategy. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Synergism between peroxymonosulfate and LaCoO3‐TiO2 photocatalysis for oxidation of herbicides. Operational variables and catalyst characterization assessment
Authors: Solís Rafael R , Rivas F Javier , Gimeno Olga , Pérez‐Bote Jose‐Luis
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

This paper reports the use of novel coupled LaCoO3‐TiO2 as photocatalyst with double route of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation. First, as a photocatalyst due to titania; and second, through PMS heterogeneous decomposition onto LaCoO3 particles. Thus, photocatalytical activity was tested for removing a mixture of four herbicides of different recalcitrance (metazachlor, tembotrione, tritosulfuron and ethofumesate).

RESULTS

The presence of light and PMS highly enhanced herbicides removal rate: 3.5–5 times increases were obtained with UVA light. Oxidant concentration, catalyst load, pH and temperature were assessed. Herbicides were completely oxidized depending on their recalcitrant nature and the operational variables. 55% TOC conversion was reached using Oxone® 5 × 10−4 mol L−1. Phytotoxicity assays denoted no inhibition after 180 min of photocatalytic treatment (∼80% initial inhibition). Solid properties of Co/Ti = 0.1:1 ratio were studied by means of SEM (LaCoO3 aggregates linked to a variety of shapes and sizes of TiO2), XRF (6.1% of LaCoO3), XPS (superficial Co3+, La3+ and Ti4+), XRD (anatase, rutile and rhombohedral LaCoO3) and UV–vis diffuse reflectance (visible range absorption and bandgap of 2.88 eV for TiO2).

CONCLUSION

Catalysts based on LaCoO3‐TiO2 combined with peroxymonosulfate seem to be suitable for removing organic pollutants, with a moderate conversion of TOC and elimination of toxicity. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
A correlative study of the allantois in pig and rabbit highlighting the diversity of extraembryonic tissues in four mammalian species, including mouse and man
Authors: Hassan Waad , Viebahn Christoph
Published: February 2017

Despite its conserved role in placenta and umbilical cord formation, the mammalian allantois shows remarkable diversity in size and form as well as in the timing of its appearance and attachment to the chorion. In the mouse, the common allantoic diverticulum is lacking; instead, the allantoic core domain is defined as a progenitor center for allantoic development. In this study, the allantoises of the pig and the rabbit as two nonrodent mammals of increasing significance in biomedical research are compared (1) morphologically using high resolution light and electron microscopy and (2) molecularly using brachyury mRNA expression as a mesodermal marker. Multiple small allantoic diverticula in the rabbit contrast with a single large cavity filling the entire allantois of the pig, but neither pig nor rabbit allantois expresses brachyury. The mesothelium on the allantois surface shows regional variability of cell contacts and microvilli, while blood vessels appear randomly around the allantoic diverticula in a mesodermal layer of variable thickness. Primordial germ cell‐like cells are found in the allantois of the pig but not of the rabbit. To understand further the relevance of this developmental and morphological diversity, we compare the allantois development of pig and rabbit with early developmental landmarks of mouse and man. Our findings suggest that (1) tissue interaction between endoderm and mesoderm is important for allantoic development and vascular differentiation in species with a rudimentary allantoic diverticulum, (2) allantoic mesothelium plays a specific role in chorioallantoic attachment, allantoic differentiation and vascularization, and (3) there is a pronounced diversity in the extraembryonic migratory pathways of primordial germ cells among mammals. Finally, the phylogenetically basal characteristics of the pig allantois are suggestive of a functional similarity in mammals with a large allantois before placentation and in (aplacental) sauropsids with a chorioallantoic membrane well‐adjusted to material exchange function.
Simultaneous noncontrast angiography and intraplaque hemorrhage (SNAP) imaging: Comparison with contrast‐enhanced MR angiography for measuring carotid stenosis
Authors: Shu Hongge , Sun Jie , Hatsukami Thomas S. , Balu Niranjan , Hippe Daniel S. , Liu Haining , Kohler Ted R. , Zhu Wenzhen , Yuan Chun
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To evaluate in a proof‐of‐concept study the feasibility of Simultaneous Noncontrast Angiography and intraPlaque hemorrhage (SNAP) imaging as a clinical magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) technique for measuring carotid stenosis. There is a growing interest in detecting intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) during the clinical management of carotid disease, yet luminal stenosis has remained indispensable during clinical decision‐making. SNAP imaging has been proposed as a novel IPH imaging technique that provides carotid MRA with no added scan time. Flowing blood shows negative signal on SNAP because of phase‐sensitive inversion recovery.

Materials and Methods

In all, 58 asymptomatic subjects with 16–79% stenosis on ultrasound were scanned at 3T by SNAP with 0.8 mm isotropic resolution and 16 cm longitudinal coverage. Two readers measured luminal stenosis of bilateral carotid arteries (n = 116) on minimum intensity projections of SNAP using the NASCET criteria. In the subset (48 arteries) with contrast‐enhanced (CE) MRA available for comparison, luminal stenosis was also measured on maximum intensity projections of CE‐MRA.

Results

Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) with 95% confidence intervals were 0.94 (0.90–0.96) and 0.93 (0.88–0.96) for intra‐ and interreader agreement on stenosis measurements, respectively. Corresponding kappas for grading stenosis (0–29%, 30–69%, 70–99%, and 100%) were 0.79 (0.67–0.89) and 0.80 (0.68–0.90). Agreement between SNAP and CE‐MRA was high (ICC: 0.95 [0.90–0.98]; kappa: 0.82 [0.71–0.93]).

Conclusion

As a dedicated IPH‐imaging sequence, SNAP also provided carotid stenosis measurement that showed high intra‐ and interreader consistency and excellent agreement with CE‐MRA. Further comparisons with digital subtraction angiography and other noninvasive techniques are warranted.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1045–1052.
Multiple sclerosis‐associated retrovirus, Epstein‐Barr virus, and vitamin D status in patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mostafa Aliehossadat , Jalilvand Somayeh , Shoja Zabihollah , Nejati Ahmad , Shahmahmoodi Shohreh , Sahraian Mohammad Ali , Marashi Sayed Mahdi
Published: February 2017

The relationship between infections and autoimmune diseases is complex and there are several reports highlighting the role of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in these patients. The levels of multiple sclerosis‐associated retrovirus (MSRV)‐type DNA of Env gene was measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 52 patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and 40 healthy controls using specific quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis. Furthermore, we analyzed the status of HERV‐W/MSRV in these patients with regards to both EBV (DNA load and anti‐EBNA1 IgG antibody) and vitamin D concentration. MSRV DNA copy number were significantly higher in RRMS patients than healthy controls (P < 0.0001). Interestingly, an inverse correlation was found between MSRV DNA copy number and serum vitamin D concentration (P < 0.01), but not for EBV load or anti‐EBNA‐1 IgG antibody.
Predictors of treatment efficacy and ALT non‐normalization with sofosbuvir/ribavirin therapy for patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 2
Authors: Watanabe Takao , Tokumoto Yoshio , Joko Kouji , Michitaka Kojiro , Horiike Norio , Tanaka Yoshinori , Tada Fujimasa , Kisaka Yoshiyasu , Nakanishi Seiji , Nonaka Takashi , Yamauchi Kazuhiko , Hirooka Masashi , Abe Masanori , Hiasa Yoichi
Published: February 2017

The tolerability and efficacy of sofosbuvir and ribavirin in patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 2 were investigated under actual clinical conditions. A total of 208 patients with chronic HCV genotype 2 infection were treated with sofosbuvir 400 mg and ribavirin (weight‐based dosing) for 12 weeks. Treatment discontinuation and sustained virological response 12 (SVR12) were evaluated. Moreover, factors associated with SVR12, hemoglobin decreasing to less than 10 g/dL during treatment, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) non‐normalization after treatment were evaluated. In all patients, SVR12 responses were 96.1% (200/208). About 6 of 8 patients (3.8%) who did not achieve SVR12 were re‐treatment patients, and eight patients who did not achieve SVR all had liver cirrhosis. Multivariate analysis also identified body mass index (OR = 0.79; P < 0.001), platelet count (OR = 0.88; P = 0.003), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (OR = 0.96; P = 0.007) as independent contributing factors associated with hemoglobin decreasing to less than 10 g/dL during treatment, and only Mac‐2 Binding Protein Glycosylation isomer (M2BpGi) (OR = 2.46; P = 0.017) as an independent contributing factor associated with ALT non‐normalization after treatment. Cirrhotic patients may have a relatively high rate of treatment failure. In patients whose M2BpGi levels are elevated, their ALT tended to not normalize after treatment completion. These patients who did not achieve normalization of ALT after sofosbuvir plus RBV treatment need more careful observation for emergence of hepatocellular carcinoma even after achievement of SVR.
First‐order Raman scattering in three‐layered Mo‐based ternaries: MoAlB, Mo2Ga2C and Mo2GaC
Authors: Chaix‐Pluchery O. , Thore A. , Kota S. , Halim J. , Hu C. , Rosen J. , Ouisse T. , Barsoum M. W.
Published: February 2017

Here, we report, for the first time, on the first‐order Raman spectra of the layered Mo‐based ternaries: MoAlB, Mo2Ga2C and Mo2GaC. Polycrystalline samples were fabricated, and well‐defined Raman spectra were recorded. When the experimental peak positions were compared with those predicted from density functional theory, good agreement was obtained, indirectly validating both. Furthermore, all modes in the three compounds were symmetry assigned. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Separation of six xanthones from Swertia franchetiana by high‐speed countercurrent chromatography
Authors: Li Hongmei , Chen Tao , Sun Jing , Wang Weiqing , Li Yulin
Published: February 2017

In our present study, two groups of xanthones isomers (1‐hydroxy‐3,5,8‐trimethoxyxanthone and 1‐hydroxy‐3,7,8‐trimethoxyxanthone; 1,8‐dihydroxy‐3,7‐dimethoxyxanthone and 1,8‐dihydroxy‐3,5‐dimethanolxanthone) and other two xanthones (3‐methoxy‐1,5,8‐trihydroxyxanthone and 3,5‐dimethoxy‐1‐hydroxyxanthone) were separated from Swertia franchetiana. First, a solvent system composed of petroleum ether/methanol/water (2:1:0.6, v/v) was developed for the liquid–liquid extraction of these xanthones from the crude extract. Then, an efficient method was established for the one‐step separation of these six xanthones by high‐speed countercurrent chromatography using n‐hexane/ethyl acetate/methanol/ethanol/water (HEMEW; 6:4:4:2:4, v/v) as the solvent system. The results showed that liquid–liquid extraction could be well developed for efficient enrichment of target compounds. Additionally, high‐speed countercurrent chromatography could be a powerful technology for separation xanthones isomers. It was found ethanol could be a good methanol substitute when the HEMEW system could not provide good separation factors.
Pedunculopontine network dysfunction in Parkinson's disease with postural control and sleep disorders
Authors: Gallea Cecile , Ewenczyk Claire , Degos Bertrand , Welter Marie‐Laure , Grabli David , Leu‐Semenescu Smaranda , Valabregue Romain , Berroir Pierre , Yahia‐Cherif Lydia , Bertasi Eric , Fernandez‐Vidal Sara , Bardinet Eric , Roze Emmanuel , Benali Habib , Poupon Cyril , François Chantal , Arnulf Isabelle , Lehéricy Stéphane , Vidailhet Marie
Published: February 2017

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate pedunculopontine nucleus network dysfunctions that mediate impaired postural control and sleep disorder in Parkinson's disease.

Methods

We examined (1) Parkinson's disease patients with impaired postural control and rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (further abbreviated as sleep disorder), (2) Parkinson's disease patients with sleep disorder only, (3) Parkinson's disease patients with neither impaired postural control nor sleep disorder, and (4) healthy volunteers. We assessed postural control with clinical scores and biomechanical recordings during gait initiation. Participants had video polysomnography, daytime sleepiness self‐evaluation, and resting‐state functional MRIs.

Results

Patients with impaired postural control and sleep disorder had longer duration of anticipatory postural adjustments during gait initiation and decreased functional connectivity between the pedunculopontine nucleus and the supplementary motor area in the locomotor network that correlated negatively with the duration of anticipatory postural adjustments. Both groups of patients with sleep disorder had decreased functional connectivity between the pedunculopontine nucleus and the anterior cingulate cortex in the arousal network that correlated with daytime sleepiness. The degree of dysfunction in the arousal network was related to the degree of connectivity in the locomotor network in all patients with sleep disorder, but not in patients without sleep disorder or healthy volunteers.

Conclusions

These results shed light on the functional neuroanatomy of pedunculopontine nucleus networks supporting the clinical manifestation and the interdependence between sleep and postural control impairments in Parkinson's disease. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Global results for semilinear hyperbolic equations with damping term on manifolds with conical singularity
Authors: Alimohammady Mohsen , Koozehgar Kalleji Morteza , Karamali Gholamreza
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we apply the family of potential wells to the initial boundary value problem of semilinear hyperbolic equations on the cone Sobolev spaces. We not only give some results of global existence and nonexistence of solutions but also obtain the vacuum isolating of solutions. Finally, we show blow‐up in finite time of solutions on a manifold with conical singularities. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MRI‐based transfer function determination for the assessment of implant safety
Authors: Tokaya J.P. , Raaijmakers A.J.E. , Luijten P.R. , Bakker J.F. , van den Berg C.A.T.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

We introduce a new MR‐based method to determine the transfer function (TF) for radiofrequency (RF) safety assessment of active implantable medical devices. Transfer functions are implant‐specific measures that relate the incident tangential electric field on an (elongated) implant to a scattered electric field at its tip. The proposed method allows for TF determination with a high spatial resolution in relatively fast measurements without requiring dedicated bench setups from MRI images.

Theory and Methods

The principle of reciprocity is used in conjunction with the potential to measure currents with MRI to determine TF. Low‐flip angle 3D dual gradient echo MRI data are acquired with an implant as transceive antenna, which requires minimal hardware adaptations. The implant‐specific TF is determined from the acquired MRI data, with two different postprocessing methods for comparison.

Results

TFs of linear and helical implants can be determined accurately (with a Pearson correlation coefficient R ≥ 0.7 between measurements and simulations, and a difference in field at the tip ΔEtip ≤ 19%) from relatively quick (t < 20 minutes) MRI acquisitions with (several) millimeter spatial resolution.

Conclusion

Transfer function determination with MRI for RF safety assessment of implantable medical devices is possible. The proposed MR‐based method allows for TF determination in more realistic exposure scenarios and solid media. Magn Reson Med 78:2449–2459, 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Effects of exercise‐induced apelin levels on skeletal muscle and their capillarization in type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Son Jun Seok , Kim Hee‐Jae , Son Yeri , Lee Hojun , Chae Song Ah , Seong Je Kyung , Song Wook
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Exercise‐induced apelin as a myokine is believed to play a role in the improvement of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and capillarization. In this study, we evaluated the association between exercise‐induced apelin and muscle capillarization.

Methods

Zucker rats underwent a treadmill exercise program. Body composition, muscle strength, muscle size, muscle capillarization, and insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment [HOMA‐IR]) were measured. Apelin levels of skeletal muscle and plasma were then analyzed.

Results

Exercise improved body composition (P < 0.05), HOMA‐IR (P < 0.05), and grip strength (P < 0.001). In the soleus, the fiber size of T2DM was decreased (P < 0.001), but it increased in fiber size and capillarization after exercise (P < 0.001) occurred. We identified an increase in plasma apelin (P < 0.05) and a decrease in soleus apelin (P < 0.01), as well as an association between soleus apelin and angiogenesis (P < 0.01).

Discussion

A role for exercise‐induced apelin in improving metabolism indicates the possibility of a new drug target for the treatment of metabolic diseases and repairing skeletal muscle damage. Muscle Nerve 56: 1155–1163, 2017
Potentially Modifiable Factors Associated With Physical Activity in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Reider Nadia , Salter Amber R. , Cutter Gary R. , Tyry Tuula , Marrie Ruth Ann
Published: February 2017

Physical activity levels among persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) are worryingly low. We aimed to identify the factors associated with physical activity for people with MS, with an emphasis on factors that have not been studied previously (bladder and hand dysfunction) and are potentially modifiable. This study was a secondary analysis of data collected in the spring of 2012 during the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS) Registry. NARCOMS participants were surveyed regarding smoking using questions from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey; disability using the Patient Determined Disease Steps; fatigue, cognition, spasticity, sensory, bladder, vision and hand function using self‐reported Performance Scales; health literacy using the Medical Term Recognition Test; and physical activity using questions from the Health Information National Trends Survey. We used a forward binary logistic regression to develop a predictive model in which physical activity was the outcome variable. Of 8,755 respondents, 1,707 (19.5%) were classified as active and 7,068 (80.5%) as inactive. In logistic regression, being a current smoker, moderate or severe level of disability, depression, fatigue, hand, or bladder dysfunction and minimal to mild spasticity were associated with lower odds of meeting physical activity guidelines. MS type was not linked to activity level. Several modifiable clinical and lifestyle factors influenced physical activity in MS. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate whether modification of these factors can increase physical activity participation in persons with MS. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in inflammatory markers in estonian pubertal boys with different BMI values and increments: A 3‐Year Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Mengel Eva , Tillmann Vallo , Remmel Liina , Kool Pille , Purge Priit , Lätt Evelin , Jürimäe Jaak
Published: February 2017

Objective

Serum inflammatory markers could help to identify those boys with overweight (OWB) who gain weight more extensively during puberty. This study aimed to examine the longitudinal changes in different serum inflammatory markers through puberty in boys with different BMI values and increments.

Methods

Twenty‐six OWB and 29 normal‐weight boys (NWB) were followed yearly for 3 years to measure changes in BMI and serum concentrations of 12 inflammatory markers.

Results

OWB had higher (P < 0.033) baseline interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8, interferon gamma (IFN‐γ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), and IL‐1α concentrations in comparison with NWB. Over the 3‐year period, IFN‐γ (P = 0.0001) and TNF‐α (P = 0.0042) decreased more in OWB compared to NWB. Serum IL‐8, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1, and leptin increased further in those OWB who gained BMI more extensively through puberty compared to OWB who gained weight at slower rates (P < 0.033).

Conclusions

Serum IFN‐γ and TNF‐α levels decreased more during pubertal years in OWB compared to NWB, indicating that pubertal maturation itself may have a favorable impact on the inflammation of obesity. Serum IL‐8, MCP‐1, and leptin could help to identify OWB who gain BMI more extensively during pubertal years.
Impact of the feedback provided by a gastric electrical stimulation system on eating behavior and physical activity levels
Authors: Busetto Luca , Torres Antonio J. , Morales‐Conde Salvador , Alarcón del Agua Isaias , Moretto Carlo , Fierabracci Paola , Rovera Giuseppe , Segato Gianni , Rubio Miguel A. , Favretti Franco
Published: February 2017

Objective

The closed‐loop gastric electrical stimulation (CLGES) abiliti® system provides tailored gastric electrical stimulation activated by food entry into the stomach and sensor‐based data to medical professionals. The aim of this study was to analyze behavior changes using sensor‐based food intake and activity data in participants treated with the CLGES system.

Methods

Food intake and activity data (3D accelerometer) were downloaded at baseline and monthly/bimonthly for 12 months in a subset of patients with obesity (N = 45) participating in a multicenter trial with CLGES. Measured food intake parameters included the number of intakes during allowed and disallowed periods, nighttime intakes, and between‐meal snacks (average/d). Activity parameters included time in different levels of physical activity (min/d), sleep/sedentary (h/d), and estimated energy expenditure (EE).

Results

Weight loss at 12 months averaged 15.7 ± 7.7% of the baseline body weight. Stable reduction in the number of disallowed meals and between‐meal snacks (P < 0.05), an increase in all levels of physical activity (P < 0.001), and an increase in activity‐based EE (303 ± 53 kcal/d on average, P < 0.001) were seen.

Conclusions

Significant improvement in eating and activity was seen in participants. It is hypothesized that feedback of the sensor‐based data induced behavioral changes and contributed to weight loss in patients treated with CLGES.
In situ synthesis of graphene/poly(aniline‐Co‐5‐aminosalicylic acid) nanocomposites toward improved electroactivity
Authors: Zhu Aiping , Wang Hongsheng , Zhang Chaoqun
Published: February 2017

In this work, the novel nanofiber composites of graphene/poly(aniline‐co‐5‐aminosalicylic acid) were prepared by in situ reduction of graphene oxide (GO) followed by in situ copolymerization of aniline and 5‐aminosalicylic acid under acid conditions. The morphology, composition, microstructure, and properties of these composites can be tailored by π‐π stacking manipulation through controlling the mass ratios of GO to copolymerization monomers. The incorporation of rGO greatly improves the electrical conductivity of nanocomposites and electrochemical activity not only at acidic, but also at neutral solution, strikingly different from the behavior of pristine PANI which become electrochemically inactive from pH ≥ 4. The composite with GO/poly(aniline‐co‐5‐aminosalicylic acid) mass ratio at 8 shows excellent electrical conductivity and redox reactivity due to the synergistic effect of graphene and poly(aniline‐co‐5‐aminosalicylic acid) copolymer. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2915–2921, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Chemo‐ and stereoselective polymerization of 3‐methylenehepta‐1,6‐Diene and Its thiol‐ene modification
Authors: Li Lei , Li Shihui , Cui Dongmei
Published: February 2017

Here we report on the coordination polymerization of a vinyl‐functionalized butadiene monomer, 3‐methylenehepta‐1,6‐diene (MHD) with exclusive conjugated diene chemoselectivity, high 1,2‐regioselectivity and moderate isotacticity (1,2‐selectivity > 99%, mm triad = 93%). Random copolymers of MHD and other conjugated diene (isoprene or myrcene) are also synthesized. The pendent vinyl groups of MHD homo or copolymers could be quantitatively converted into various functional groups via thiol‐ene click reaction. The resulting functionalized polybutadiene‐based material display versatile thermal and surface properties. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 1031–1039
Preparation of CO2‐switchable latexes using N‐[3‐(dimethylamino)propyl]‐methacrylamide (DMAPMAm)
Authors: Darabi Ali , Glasing Joe , Jessop Philip G. , Cunningham Michael F.
Published: February 2017

CO2‐switchable polystyrene (PS), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and poly(butyl methacrylate) (PBMA) latexes were prepared via surfactant‐free emulsion polymerization (SFEP) under a CO2 atmosphere, employing N‐[3‐(dimethylamino)propyl]methacrylamide (DMAPMAm) as a CO2‐switchable, water‐soluble, and hydrolytically stable comonomer. The conversion of the SFEP of styrene reaches >95% in less than 5 h. The resulting latexes have near monodisperse particles (PDI ≤ 0.05), as confirmed by DLS and TEM. The latexes could be destabilized by bubbling nitrogen (N2) and heating at 65 °C for 30 min, and easily redispersed by only bubbling CO2 for a short time without using sonication. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 1059–1066
Non‐invasive CT screening for pulmonary arteriovenous malformations in children with confirmed hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia: Results from two pediatric centers
Authors: Soysal Nurcan , Eyries Mélanie , Verlhac Suzanne , Escabasse Virginie , Remus Natascha , Tamalet Aline , Rioux Jean‐Yves , Franchi‐Abella Stéphanie , Vasile Manuela , Robert Sarah , Delestrain Céline , Hau Isabelle , Ducou‐Le Pointe Hubert , Soubrier Florent , Carette Marie‐France , Epaud Ralph
Published: February 2017

Background

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder that is caused by mutations in mainly two genes, that is ENG, encoding endoglin (HHT1), or ACVRL1, encoding activin receptor‐like kinase 1 (ALK‐1/HHT2). HHT is characterized by recurrent epistaxis, mucocutaneous telangiectasia, and vascular visceral dysplasia responsible for visceral arteriovenous malformations (AVM).

Aim

to report the experience of two university hospitals (Trousseau, Paris, and CHIC, Creteil) with screening children for HHT and pulmonary AVM (PAVM) using high resolution computed tomography (HRCT).

Methods

parents with confirmed HHT were offered to have their children screened for the mutation identified in their family, and informed consent was obtained. Children carrying the same mutation as their parents underwent HRCT of the chest without contrast.

Results

between 2008 and 2015, 99 children were screened for HHT mutations. Mutations were identified in 59 patients, that is 24 HHT1 and 35 HHT2. Radiologic and clinical screening was possible in 52 patients (21 HHT‐1 and 31 HHT‐2). Among those, PAVM was identified in 13 patients (25%; n = 8 HHT1; n = 5 HHT2), and four of them required embolization therapy.

Conclusion

This study highlights the usefulness of genetic screening in children with known HHT family. It also suggests that a non‐invasive protocol such as HRTC is an efficient approach to detect non‐symptomatic lesions that are present early on in children carrying the ENG (HHT1), but also the ACVRL1 mutations (HHT2). Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:642–649. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intratracheal Administration of Budesonide‐Surfactant in Prevention of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Very Low Birth Weight Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Venkataraman Rohini , Kamaluddeen Majeeda , Hasan Shabih U. , Robertson Helen Lee , Lodha Abhay
Published: February 2017

Despite the near universal adaptation of gentle mechanical ventilation, surfactant use and non‐invasive respiratory support, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains one of the most common respiratory morbidities in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Thus, the objective of this review was to evaluate the efficacy of intra‐tracheal administration of budesonide‐surfactant mixture in preventing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed were searched for randomized clinical trials in which intra‐tracheal administration of budesonide‐surfactant was used to prevent BPD in infants. The primary outcomes were BPD and composite outcome of death or BPD. Meta‐analysis of the two clinical trials revealed that infants who received intra‐tracheal instillation of budesonide‐surfactant mixture demonstrated 43% reduction in the risk of BPD (RR: 0.57; 95%CI: 0.43‐0.76, NNT = 5). Although mortality was not different between the groups (OR: 0.61; 95%CI: 0.34‐1.04), a 40% reduction was observed in the composite outcome of death or BPD in the budesonide‐surfactant group (RR: 0.60; 95%CI: 0.49‐0.74, NNT = 3). Thus, this review concludes that intra‐tracheal administration of budesonide‐surfactant combination was associated with decreased incidence of BPD alone or composite outcome of death or BPD in VLBW infants though there is a need for larger trials before it can be recommended as a standard of care.
A technique to control major hazards of the coal gasification process developed from critical events and safety barriers
Authors: Sun Feng , Xu Wei , Wang Guangjian , Sun Bing
Published: February 2017

Many coal gasification related accidents happened in China recently. Investigations of the accidents show that the performance of safety barriers and the risk influence factors contributing to it plays an important role. Lack of attention on the performance of safety barriers and associated risk influence factors hinder the thorough understanding of these accidents and, therefore, needs to be addressed by providing a new analysis methodology. Herein, we developed an approach from critical events and safety barriers to control the major hazards during the coal gasification process. The method consists of process hazard identification based on critical events, barrier performance evaluation based on barrier diagrams, and quantification of risk influence factors based on Bayesian network. The application of the method indicates that it is suitable for controlling major hazards of the coal gasification process as well as other chemical processes. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 36: 382–391, 2017