bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shockwave-Loading-Induced Enhancement of T
c in Superconducting Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ
Authors: Liu Tiansheng , He Chao , Wang Fengying , Liu Yingbin , Xi Xiaoxiang , Zhong Ruidan , Gu Genda
Published: July 2017

We report a shockwave method for altering the properties of the superconductor material Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ (Bi2212). We find that the superconducting transition temperature (Tc) increases from 84 K for the pristine sample to 94 K for the sample treated at a temperature and pressure of ~1200 K and ~31 GPa, respectively. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy characterizations indicate that this Tc enhancement arises from a phase transition from pristine Bi2212 to a mixture of superconducting Bi2212 and semiconducting Bi2Sr2CuO6+δ (Bi2201) during the shockwave treatment. The shockwave-treated sample exhibits n-type semiconductor properties (with an on-off ratio ~5), in contrast to the pure metallic pristine sample. Our study offers an alternative route for modifying the superconducting properties via a shockwave treatment. Furthermore, this method may provide a new approach for studying other temperature- and pressure-sensitive materials.
Nontuberculous mycobacteria in Denmark, incidence and clinical importance during the last quarter-century
Authors: Hermansen Thomas S. , Ravn Pernille , Svensson Erik , Lillebaek Troels
Published: July 2017

Disease caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) is reported to increase due to an ageing population and a rise in the proportion of immunosuppressed patients. We did a retrospective cohort study of NTM-disease in the Danish population through a quarter-century to determine the disease burden and trends in annual incidence rates. 524,119 clinical specimens were cultured for mycobacteria from 1991 through 2015 at the International Reference Laboratory of Mycobacteriology in Denmark. Among these, 8,227 NTM strains were identified from 3,462 patients and distributed according to microbiological disease criteria. We observed no increase in NTM disease incidence or proportion of patients with positive NTM cultures during the study period (Quasi-Poisson regression, p = 0.275 and 0.352 respectively). Annual incidence rates were 1.20/105 for definite NTM disease, 0.49/105 for possible NTM disease and 0.88/105 for NTM colonization. The incidence rate of NTM disease was highest in children aged 0-4 years (5.36/105/year), predominantly with cervical Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) adenitis. Surprisingly, based on more than half a million clinical specimens cultured for mycobacteria in Denmark through 25 years, the NTM disease burden and trend in incidence in the Danish population has not increased opposed to numerous internationals reports.
TRAF6 is a novel NS3-interacting protein that inhibits classical swine fever virus replication
Authors: Lv Huifang , Dong Wang , Cao Zhi , Li Xiaomeng , Wang Jie , Qian Gui , Lv Qizhuang , Wang Chengbao , Guo Kangkang , Zhang Yanming
Published: July 2017

Classical swine fever virus (CSFV) non-structural protein 3 (NS3) is a multifunctional non-structural protein that plays a major role in viral replication. However, how exactly NS3 exerts these functions remains unknown. Here, we identified tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) as a novel NS3-interacting protein via yeast two-hybrid analysis, co-immunoprecipitation, and glutathione S-transferase pull-down assays. Furthermore, we observed that TRAF6 overexpression significantly inhibited CSFV replication, and TRAF6 knockdown promoted CSFV replication in porcine alveolar macrophages. Additionally, TRAF6 was degraded during CSFV infection or NS3 expression exclusively, indicating that CSFV and TRAF6 were mutually antagonistic and that TRAF6 degradation might contribute to persistent CSFV replication. Moreover, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activity and interferon (IFN)-β and interleukin (IL)-6 expression were increased in TRAF6-overexpressing cells, whereas TRAF6-knockdown cells exhibited decreased NF-κB activity and IFN-β and IL-6 levels. Notably, TRAF6 overexpression did not reduce CSFV replication following inhibition of NF-κB activation by p65 knockdown. Our findings revealed that TRAF6 inhibits CSFV replication via activation of NF-κB-signalling pathways along with increases in the expression of its targets IFN-β and IL-6. This work addresses a novel aspect concerning the regulation of innate antiviral immune response during CSFV infection.
Imaging and mapping the impact of clouds on skyglow with all-sky photometry
Authors: Jechow Andreas , Kolláth Zoltán , Ribas Salvador J. , Spoelstra Henk , Hölker Franz , Kyba Christopher C. M.
Published: July 2017

Artificial skyglow is constantly growing on a global scale, with potential ecological consequences ranging up to affecting biodiversity. To understand these consequences, worldwide mapping of skyglow for all weather conditions is urgently required. In particular, the amplification of skyglow by clouds needs to be studied, as clouds can extend the reach of skyglow into remote areas not affected by light pollution on clear nights. Here we use commercial digital single lens reflex cameras with fisheye lenses for all-sky photometry. We track the reach of skyglow from a peri-urban into a remote area on a clear and a partly cloudy night by performing transects from the Spanish town of Balaguer towards Montsec Astronomical Park. From one single all-sky image, we extract zenith luminance, horizontal and scalar illuminance. While zenith luminance reaches near-natural levels at 5 km distance from the town on the clear night, similar levels are only reached at 27 km on the partly cloudy night. Our results show the dramatic increase of the reach of skyglow even for moderate cloud coverage at this site. The powerful and easy-to-use method promises to be widely applicable for studies of ecological light pollution on a global scale also by non-specialists in photometry.
Laboratory-based X-ray phase-imaging scanner using Talbot-Lau interferometer for non-destructive testing
Authors: Bachche Shivaji , Nonoguchi Masahiro , Kato Koichi , Kageyama Masashi , Koike Takafumi , Kuribayashi Masaru , Momose Atsushi
Published: July 2017

An X-ray Talbot-Lau interferometer scanning setup consisting of three transmission gratings, a laboratory-based X-ray source that emits X-rays vertically, and an image detector on the top has been developed for the application of X-ray phase imaging to moving objects that cannot be tested clearly with conventional absorption contrast. The grating-based X-ray phase imaging method usually employs a phase-stepping (or fringe-scanning) technique by displacing one of the gratings step-by-step while the object stays still. Since this approach is not compatible with a scanner-type application for moving objects, we have developed a new algorithm for achieving the function of phase-stepping without grating displacement. By analyzing the movie of the moiré pattern as the object moves across the field of view, we obtain the absorption, differential phase, and visibility images. The feasibility of the X-ray phase imaging scanner has been successfully demonstrated for a long sample moving at 5 mm/s. This achievement is a breakthrough for the practical industrial application of X-ray phase imaging for screening objects carried on belt-conveyers such as those in factories.
Values of ultrasound features and MMP-9 of papillary thyroid carcinoma in predicting cervical lymph node metastases
Authors: Zhang Yan , Luo Yu-kun , Zhang Ming-bo , Li Jie , Li Chang-tian , Tang Jie , Li Jun-lai
Published: July 2017

Preoperative assessment of the cervical lymph node status is important in therapeutic schedule and further evaluations of prognosis for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients. Our aim was to investigate the diagnostic values of conventional ultrasound (US), contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features and the expression of MMP-9 of PTC in predicting the cervical lymph node metastases (LNM). In total, 156 patients with PTC confirmed by surgical pathology were included. Seventy-one patients had cervical LNM, while 85 patients had no LNM. The patients had cervical LNM (39.51 ± 13.29 years) were younger than those had no LNM (44.15 ± 10.94 years) (P = 0.02). Multivariate logistic regression results showed that tumor size ≥0.95 cm (OR = 13.47), ill-defined margin (OR = 4.31), internal heterogeneous low-enhancement (OR = 5.19) and ECE (OR = 25.25) were predictive for the presence of cervical LNM. The detection rate of ECE for the PTC with LNM by CEUS (81.48%, 44/54) was higher than by US (46.30%, 25/54). There was significant difference in MMP-9 intensity between PTC with and without cervical LNM (P = 0.000), and intense reactions (+++) were mainly found in the PTCs with LNM (80.95%, 17/21). In conclusion, the combination of conventional US, CEUS features and MMP-9 expression may serve as an effective tool for predicting the cervical LNM of PTC.
Lymph node ratio is associated with adverse clinicopathological features and is a crucial nodal parameter for oral and oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Feng Zhien , Xu Qiao Shi , Wang Chong , Li Jin Zhong , Mao Ming Hui , Li Hua , Qin Li Zheng , Han Zhengxue
Published: July 2017

The lymph node ratio(LNR) has been described as a novel predictor of the survival of patients with oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma(O/OPSCC). The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether LNR is better at predicting survival and the need for adjuvant treatment than traditional tumour-nodal-metastasis(TNM) staging. Eight hundred nine patients with O/OPSCC and positive lymph node disease were retrospectively enrolled in this study. LNR equal to 0.075 is the best cut-off value for stratifying 5-year disease-free survival(DFS). High LNR is closely associated with more advanced T stage, higher N stage, more severe pathological grade, the presence of diffuse infiltration and extracapsular spread(ECS). LNR is better for evaluating prognosis than the pathological N stage. Patients with high LNR coupled with high number of positive lymph nodes who received adjuvant concurrent chemo-radiotherapy(CCRT) had a better 5-year DFS than patients who received surgery alone. Multivariate analyses revealed that T stage, ECS and LNR are independent prognostic factors of 5-year DFS and disease-specific survival(DSS). Therefore, high LNR is closely correlated with adverse parameters that markedly hinder prognosis. LNR is superior to traditional TNM staging for the evaluation of prognosis,and the combination of the LNR with the number of positive lymph nodes can predict the benefits of adjuvant CCRT.
Understanding the cation ordering transition in high-voltage spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 by doping Li instead of Ni
Authors: Lee Junghwa , Dupre Nicolas , Avdeev Maxim , Kang Byoungwoo
Published: July 2017

We determined how Li doping affects the Ni/Mn ordering in high-voltage spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4(LNMO) by using neutron diffraction, TEM image, electrochemical measurements, and NMR data. The doped Li occupies empty octahedral interstitials (16c site) before the ordering transition, and can move to normal octahedral sites (16d (4b) site) after the transition. This movement strongly affects the Ni/Mn ordering transition because Li at 16c sites blocks the ordering transition pathway and Li at 16d (4b) sites affects electrostatic interactions with transition metals. As a result, Li doping increases in the Ni/Mn disordering without the effect of Mn3+ ions even though the Li-doped LNMO undergoes order-disorder transition at 700 °C. Li doping can control the amount of Ni/Mn disordering in the spinel without the negative effect of Mn3+ ions on the electrochemical property.
CALHM1-Mediated ATP Release and Ciliary Beat Frequency Modulation in Nasal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Workman Alan D. , Carey Ryan M. , Chen Bei , Saunders Cecil J. , Marambaud Philippe , Mitchell Claire H. , Tordoff Michael G. , Lee Robert J. , Cohen Noam A.
Published: July 2017

Mechanical stimulation of airway epithelial cells causes apical release of ATP, which increases ciliary beat frequency (CBF) and speeds up mucociliary clearance. The mechanisms responsible for this ATP release are poorly understood. CALHM1, a transmembrane protein with shared structural features to connexins and pannexins, has been implicated in ATP release from taste buds, but it has not been evaluated for a functional role in the airway. In the present study, Calhm1 knockout, Panx1 knockout, and wild-type mouse nasal septal epithelial cells were grown at an air-liquid interface (ALI) and subjected to light mechanical stimulation from an air puff. Apical ATP release was attenuated in Calhm1 knockout cultures following mechanical stimulation at a pressure of 55 mmHg for 50 milliseconds (p < 0.05). Addition of carbenoxolone, a PANX1 channel blocker, completely abolished ATP release in Calhm1 knockout cultures but not in wild type or Panx1 knockout cultures. An increase in CBF was observed in wild-type ALIs following mechanical stimulation, and this increase was significantly lower (p < 0.01) in Calhm1 knockout cultures. These results demonstrate that CALHM1 plays a newly defined role, complementary to PANX1, in ATP release and downstream CBF modulation following a mechanical stimulus in airway epithelial cells.
Oxidative Stress and Redox Signalling in the Parkinson’s Disease Brain
Authors: Hernandez-Franco Pablo , Anandhan Annandurai , Foguth Rachel M. , Franco Rodrigo
Published: July 2017

Dopaminergic neuronal cell loss in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) is considered the pathological hallmark of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Since the early 1990s, oxidative stress has been suggested to exert a causative role in the loss of dopaminergic cells. Post-mortem brain sample analyses have reported an increased accumulation of oxidized proteins, nucleic acids and lipids in PD brains. In this chapter, we will provide an introductory overview of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, antioxidants, and oxidative modification to biomolecules, and the pathogenic mechanisms involved in the alteration of redox homeostasis that occurs in PD. We will also discuss the intrinsic properties of SNpc dopaminergic neurons that make them vulnerable to neurodegeneration. Energy failure and oxidative stress in PD are linked primarily to impaired mitochondria function (ETC), and both phenomena are expected to synergistically act to promote neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration. The high energy demands that SNpc DAergic neurons have to maintain neuronal homeostasis and excitability, and the pro-oxidant environment (iron/neuromelanin and dopamine content) are characteristics that make them primary targets for mitochondrial dysfunction.
Asymmetric Brønsted acid catalysis with chiral carboxylic acids
Authors: Min Chang , Seidel Daniel
Published: July 2017

This review provides an overview of various catalytic enantioselective transformations that utilize chiral carboxylic acids as Brønsted acid catalysts.
A convenient approach to facilitate monitoring Gaucher disease progression and therapeutic response
Authors: Zhang Wujuan , Oehrle Melissa , Prada Carlos E. , Schwartz Ida Vanessa D. , Chutipongtanate Somchai , Wattanasirichaigoon Duangrurdee , Inskeep Venette , Dai Mei , Pan Dao , Sun Ying , Setchell Kenneth D. R.
Published: July 2017

A robust and convenient tandem mass spectrometry assay is reported for the measurement of the GD biomarker, GlcS, in dried plasma spots.
Easily fabricated ion source for characterizing mixtures of organic compounds by direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry
Authors: Upton Kathleen T. , Schilling Katherine A. , Beauchamp J. L.
Published: July 2017

The EZ-DART ion source for ambient mass spectrometry, with simplified construction, minimal assembly cost, and versatile sampling capabilities, is described.
Monitoring trace levels of hydroxy aromatic compounds in urine matrices by bar adsorptive microextraction (BAμE)
Authors: Neng N. R. , Nogueira J. M. F.
Published: July 2017

In this study, the enhancement for trace analysis of hydroxy aromatic compounds (HACs), such as phenol, hydroquinone, catechol and resorcinol, in urine matrices is proposed using bar adsorptive microextraction combined with micro-liquid desorption followed by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (BAμE-μLD/HPLC-DAD).
Determination of herbicide pyraclonil residue in rice, soil and water using high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Hu Mingfeng , Chen Wuying , Liu Yong , Zhang Deyong , Chen Ang , Liu Jianyu , Luo Xiangwen , Yan Qingping
Published: July 2017

A quick, reliable and sensitive analytical method for the confirmation and quantification of pyraclonil was developed using high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) with an electrospray ionization source (ESI) in positive mode.
Supramolecular aggregation in dithia-arsoles: chlorides, cations and N-centred paddlewheels
Authors: Tran Thao T. P. , Ould Darren M. C. , Wilkins Lewis C. , Wright Dominic S. , Melen Rebecca L. , Rawson Jeremy M.
Published: July 2017

New isomorphs and chain-like motifs with an astounding 17 molecules in the asymmetric unit of dithia-chloro-arsoles are described in addition to novel paddlewheel structures.
Investigation of the dispersion behavior of fluorinated MWCNTs in various solvents
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhang Yichun , Wang Zaoming , Lai Wenchuan , Zhang Xiaojiao , Wang Xu , Liu Xiangyang
Published: July 2017

The heterogeneous structure of fluorinated MWCNTs was demonstrated through exploring their dispersion behavior in solvents.
Coherent quantum scattering of CH4 from Ni(111)
Authors: Al Taleb Amjad , Farías Daniel
Published: July 2017

We have measured high-resolution angular distributions of methane scattered from a Ni(111) surface at incident energies between 68.9 meV and 108.6 meV.
Magnetic separation: its application in mining, waste purification, medicine, biochemistry and chemistry
Authors: Iranmanesh M. , Hulliger J.
Published: July 2017

The use of strong magnetic field gradients and high magnetic fields generated by permanent magnets or superconducting coils has found applications in many fields such as mining, solid state chemistry, biochemistry and medical research.
A label-free and universal platform for the construction of an odd/even detector for decimal numbers based on graphene oxide and DNA-stabilized silver nanoclusters
Authors: Zhang Siqi , Wang Kun , Li Kai-Bin , Chen Fengzao , Shi Wei , Jia Wen-Ping , Zhang Jie , Han De-Man
Published: July 2017

In our study, we assembled a series of logic circuits based on AgNCs/GO to perform the logic functions of 3-, 4-, and 5-bit odd/even checking.
Self-assembly of an amphipathic ααβ-tripeptide into cationic spherical particles for intracellular delivery
Authors: Bucci Raffaella , Das Priyadip , Iannuzzi Filomena , Feligioni Marco , Gandolfi Raffaella , Gelmi Maria Luisa , Reches Meital , Pellegrino Sara
Published: July 2017

Self-assembly of ultra short peptide into proteolytically stable drug carriers.
New findings about human dipeptidyl peptidase III based on mutations found in cancer
Authors: Matovina M. , Agić D. , Abramić M. , Matić S. , Karačić Z. , Tomić S.
Published: July 2017

In this work we investigated the role of two highly conserved residues in the peptidase family M49, whose mutations G313W and R510W were detected in human cancer, using combined experimental and computational approaches.
Synthesis, structure, and photocatalytic hydrogen evolution of a trimeric Nb/W addendum cluster
Authors: Wang Haiying , Hou Lili , Li Chen , Zhang Dongdi , Ma Pengtao , Wang Jingping , Niu Jingyang
Published: July 2017

We present the second trimeric Nb/W addendum cluster Cs12[(SiW9Nb3O38)3WO3(OH)3]·33H2O with its photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity.
Improving interface adhesion of magnetic particle modified EVA hot melt adhesive through introduction of a thermodynamically compatible component
Authors: Lu Xiaobin , Zhao Hongguo , Feng Chunhui , Chen Qian , Zhang Zhao , Yang Chunhua , He Xianru , Wang Xin
Published: July 2017

Fe3O4 particles were surface coated with a layer of polyvinyl acetate (PVAc), which could improve their compatibility with EVA composite hot melt adhesives and then further induce EVA segments to orientate.
Highly thermally conductive and electrically insulating polymer nanocomposites with boron nitride nanosheet/ionic liquid complexes
Authors: Morishita Takuya , Takahashi Naoko
Published: July 2017

Boron nitride nanosheet (BNNS)/ionic liquid (IL)/polymer composites show significant enhancement of through-plane and in-plane thermal conductivities and electrical insulation.
The unexpected roles of σ and π orbitals in electron donor and acceptor group effects on the 13C NMR chemical shifts in substituted benzenes
Authors: Viesser Renan V. , Ducati Lucas C. , Tormena Cláudio F. , Autschbach Jochen
Published: July 2017

NH2 and NO2 group effects on 13C NMR chemical shifts in substituted benzenes are explained by σ- instead of π-orbitals.
Synthesis of cryptomelane type α-MnO2(KxMn8O16) cathode materials with tunable K+content: the role of tunnel cation concentration on electrochemistry
Authors: Poyraz Altug S. , Huang Jianping , Pelliccione Christopher J. , Tong Xiao , Cheng Shaobo , Wu Lijun , Zhu Yimei , Marschilok Amy C. , Takeuchi Kenneth J. , Takeuchi Esther S.
Published: July 2017

Here, we synthesized a series of α-MnO2samples with differing K+content but similar physical properties allowing direct study of the role of tunnel K+on the electrochemistry of α-MnO2cathodes.
Engineering tin phosphides@carbon yolk–shell nanocube structures as a highly stable anode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Ma Lianbo , Yan Pengjie , Wu Shikui , Zhu Guoyin , Shen Yalong
Published: July 2017

Tin phosphides@carbon with a yolk–shell nanocube structure was prepared as a highly stable anode material for sodium-ion batteries.
2D material liquid crystals for optoelectronics and photonics
Authors: Hogan B. T. , Kovalska E. , Craciun M. F. , Baldycheva A.
Published: July 2017

The merging of the materials science paradigms of liquid crystals and 2D materials promises superb new opportunities for the advancement of the fields of optoelectronics and photonics. In this review, we summarise the development and applications of 2D material liquid crystals for optoelectronics and photonics.
Sialylated glycosylphosphatidylinositols suppress the production of toxic amyloid-β oligomers
Authors: Nolan William , McHale-Owen Harriet , Bate Clive
Published: July 2017

The production of amyloid-β (Aβ) is a key factor driving pathogenesis in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Increasing concentrations of soluble Aβ oligomers within the brain lead to synapse degeneration and the progressive dementia characteristic of AD. Since Aβ exists in both disease-relevant (toxic) and non-toxic forms, the factors that affected the release of toxic Aβ were studied in a cell model. 7PA2 cells expressing the human amyloid precursor protein released Aβ oligomers that caused synapse damage when incubated with cultured neurones. These Aβ oligomers had similar potency to soluble Aβ oligomers derived from the brains of Alzheimer's patients. Although the conditioned media from 7PA2 cells treated with the cellular prion protein (PrPC) contained Aβ, it did not cause synapse damage. The loss of toxicity was associated with a reduction in Aβ oligomers and an increase in Aβ monomers. The suppression of toxic Aβ release was dependent on the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor attached to PrPC, and treatment of cells with specific GPIs alone reduced the production of toxic Aβ. The efficacy of GPIs was structure-dependent and the presence of sialic acid was critical. The conditioned medium from GPI-treated cells protected neurones against Aβ oligomer-induced synapse damage; neuroprotection was mediated by Aβ monomers. These studies support the hypothesis that the ratio of Aβ monomers to Aβ oligomers is a critical factor that regulates synapse damage.
A strictly monofunctional bacterial hydroxymethylpyrimidine phosphate kinase precludes damaging errors in thiamin biosynthesis
Authors: Thamm Antje M. , Li Gengnan , Taja-Moreno Marlene , Gerdes Svetlana Y. , de Crécy-Lagard Valérie , Bruner Steven D. , Hanson Andrew D.
Published: July 2017

The canonical kinase (ThiD) that converts the thiamin biosynthesis intermediate hydroxymethylpyrimidine (HMP) monophosphate into the diphosphate can also very efficiently convert free HMP into the monophosphate in prokaryotes, plants, and fungi. This HMP kinase activity enables salvage of HMP, but it is not substrate-specific and so allows toxic HMP analogs and damage products to infiltrate the thiamin biosynthesis pathway. Comparative analysis of bacterial genomes uncovered a gene, thiD2, that is often fused to the thiamin synthesis gene thiE and could potentially encode a replacement for ThiD. Standalone ThiD2 proteins and ThiD2 fusion domains are small (∼130 residues) and do not belong to any previously known protein family. Genetic and biochemical analyses showed that representative standalone and fused ThiD2 proteins catalyze phosphorylation of HMP monophosphate, but not of HMP or its toxic analogs and damage products such as bacimethrin and 5-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpyrimidin-4-ol. As strictly monofunctional HMP monophosphate kinases, ThiD2 proteins eliminate a potentially fatal vulnerability of canonical ThiD, at the cost of the ability to reclaim HMP formed by thiamin turnover.
Dysregulation of miR-223 constitutes a promising biomarker that informs about clinical outcomes of acute liver failure
Authors: Lauschke Volker M.
Published: July 2017

In this issue of Clinical Science, Schueller et al. [Clin. Sci. (2017) 131, 1971-1987] evaluated the role of miR-223 across multiple etiologies of acute and chronic liver insults in murine models and clinical samples. The authors find that while miR-223 is not mechanistically involved in liver injury, its intracellular levels in hepatocytes are increased upon hepatic damage in a broad panel of mechanistically distinct injury models. Furthermore, the authors provide evidence that circulating miR-223 levels provide a promising minimally invasive biomarker for acute liver failure (ALF) that defines a distinct subset of ALF cases and correlates with clinical outcomes. Combined, the highlighted study suggests that miR-223 constitutes a promising biomarker whose clinical validity and utility warrant further investigations.
Variability of the Pressure Measurements Exerted by the Tip of Laryngoscope During Laryngeal Sensory Testing: A Clinical Demonstration
Authors: Kaneoka Asako , Pisegna Jessica M. , Krisciunas Gintas P. , Nito Takaharu , LaValley Michael P. , Stepp Cara E. , Langmore Susan E.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Clinicians often test laryngeal sensation by touching the laryngeal mucosa with the tip of a flexible laryngoscope. However, the pressure applied to the larynx by using this touch method is unknown, and the expected responses elicited by this method are uncertain. The variability in pressure delivered by clinicians using the touch method was investigated, and the subject responses to the touches were also reported.

Methods

A fiberoptic pressure sensor passed through the working channel of a laryngoscope, with its tip positioned at the distal port of the channel. Two examiners each tested 8 healthy adults. Each examiner touched the mucosa covering the left arytenoid 3 times. The sensor recorded the pressure exerted by each touch. An investigator noted subject responses to the touches. From the recorded videos, the absence or presence of the laryngeal adductor reflex in response to touch was judged.

Results

Pressure values obtained for 46 of the 48 possible samples ranged from 17.9 mmHg to the measurement ceiling of 350.0 mmHg. The most frequently observed response was positive subject report followed by the laryngeal adductor reflex.

Conclusion

Pressure applied to the larynx by using the touch method was highly variable, indicating potential diagnostic inaccuracy in determining laryngeal sensory function.
Optimal intake of clear liquids during preparation for afternoon colonoscopy with low-volume polyethylene glycol plus ascorbic acid
Authors: Tajika Masahiro , Tanaka Tsutomu , Ishihara Makoto , Hirayama Yutaka , Oonishi Sachiyo , Mizuno Nobumasa , Hara Kazuo , Hijioka Susumu , Imaoka Hiroshi , Fujiyoshi Toshihisa , Hieda Nobuhiro , Okuno Nozomi , Yoshida Tsukasa , Yamao Kenji , Bhatia Vikram , Ando Masahiko , Niwa Yasumasa
Published: July 2017

Background and study aims The standard colonoscopy preparation regimen in Japan for afternoon procedures is sequential intake of 1 L of polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage solution containing ascorbic acid (PEG-ASC), 0.5 L of clear liquid, 0.5 L of PEG-ASC, and finally 0.25 L of clear fluids (all at a rate of 0.25 L every 15 min). However, this regimen seems poorly tolerated and complicated for many patients compared to previous regimen of polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage solution. The aim of this study was to evaluate an alternate regimen of 0.5 L of PEG-ASC followed by 0.25 L clear liquids, repeated 3 times.

Patients and methods This was a single-blinded, non-inferiority, randomized controlled study. Subjects were randomized to the standard regimen or the alternate regimen using a web-based registry system. All patients were instructed to eat a pre-packaged, low residue diet and to take sodium picosulfate hydrate the day before colonoscopy. The Boston Bowel Preparation Scale was used to evaluate bowel cleansing, and a 3-point scale was used to assess mucosal visibility. The primary endpoint was successful bowel cleansing. The acceptability, tolerability, safety, and endoscopic findings of these two regimens were secondary endpoints.

Results A total of 409 patients were randomized to either the standard regimen (n = 204, males 54.0 %, mean age 65.5 years) or the alternate regimen (n = 205, 54.6 %, 65.0 years). The rates of successful bowel cleansing were 71.1 % (64.3 – 77.2 %) with the standard regimen vs. 75.1 % (68.6 – 80.9 %) with the alternate regimen (95 % lower confidence limit, for the difference = – 4.6, non-inferiority P < 0.05). No significant differences were found in tolerability, safety, and endoscopic findings.

Conclusion The alternate regimen and standard regimen are clinically equivalent with respect to cleansing efficacy and acceptability, tolerability, safety, and endoscopic findings. These results are good news for patients with difficulty drinking the first liter of PEG-ASC.
Efficacy and safety of a combination of hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and poloxamer 407 as a submucosal injection solution for endoscopic resection: pilot study on a swine model
Authors: Fernández-Esparrach G. , Cuatrecasas M. , Rodríguez de Miguel C. , Sánchez-Montes C. , Córdova H.
Published: July 2017

Background and aims Endoscopic resection techniques require use of submucosal injection. The aim of this study was to assess a new solution that combines hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and poloxamer 407 for submucosal injection.

Methods A total of 48 gastric submucosal cushions were created in fresh porcine stomachs using gelafundin (n = 16) or the new solution diluted at 50 % (n = 16), or 80 % (n = 16). The duration of mucosal elevation was measured. In an in vivo model, 10 gastric submucosal cushions were created by injecting 2 mL of the new solution at 80 % and the animal was euthanized 30 minutes after the last injection.

Results Submucosal cushions with the new solution at 80 % and 50 % concentration lasted longer than with gelafundin (23.13 ± 15.57, 13.1 ± 6.6, 3.94 ± 1.53 minutes, respectively; P = 0.000). In the in vivo study, no damage or necrosis was observed in the mucosa or muscularis propria.

Conclusion The combination of hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and poloxamer 407 produces a long-lasting submucosal cushion and does not seem to induce acute damage in the tissue making it suitable for submucosal injection.
Therapeutisches Klettern – MS on the rocks
Authors: Rieger Anja
Published: July 2017

Klettern für Patienten mit Multipler Sklerose? Viel zu gefährlich. Skepsis war das, was der Sportwissenschaftlerin Dr. Claudia Kern entgegenschlug, als sie erstmals mit Patienten mit MS kletterte. Doch die Patienten profitierten enorm von der neuartigen Bewegungsform. Mit ihrem Projekt „MS on the rocks“ gibt Claudia Kern nun seit zwölf Jahren Menschen mit MS die Chance, ihre Therapie als Hobby zu erleben.
Partizipation in der Therapie – Verantwortung teilen
Authors: Buchli Luzia
Published: July 2017

Je mehr ein Patient die Therapie mitbestimmt und Verantwortung übernimmt, desto wirksamer sind die Maßnahmen. Aber wie ist es zum Beispiel im Akutkrankenhaus, wenn ein Patient nicht in der Lage ist, sich intensiv zu beteiligen. Wie kann Partizipation dennoch gelingen?
Gehirnerschütterungen – Unterschätzte Gefahr
Authors: Sutor Volker
Published: July 2017

Obwohl Gehirnerschütterungen sehr häufig vorkommen und bei wiederholtem Auftreten zu langfristigen Folgen führen können, werden sie oft unterschätzt. Selbst viele Sportphysiotherapeuten sind in der Diagnostik am Spielfeldrand noch unzureichend qualifiziert. Dabei können sie auf hilfreiche Werkzeuge wie das Concussion Recognition Tool (CRT) und die dritte Version des Sport Concussion Assessment Tools (SCAT 3) zurückgreifen.
Fall für Vier: Ausgeknirscht
Authors: Hellmann Daniel , Ricken Claudia , Hoffmann Marisa , Kauert Marco
Published: July 2017

Sina Zoll hat mehrmals pro Woche dumpfdrückende Kopfschmerzen. Wenn sie nachts mit den Zähnen knirscht, sind die Beschwerden am nächsten Tag stärker. Doch eine Aufbissschiene brachte bisher keine Erleichterung. Ein Zahnarzt, eine Kieferorthopädin, eine Physiotherapeutin und ein Osteopath schildern, zu welchen Maßnahmen sie bei diesem Fall greifen würden.
Frage an Frans – „Warum bestehen wir hauptsächlich aus Wasser?“
Authors: Herz Mona
Published: July 2017

Manch kniffelige physiologische Frage stellt sich einem im physiotherapeutischen Berufsalltag. Die Antwort ist selten mit einem Satz gegeben. Solchen Fragen geht Medizinjournalistin Mona Herz für physiopraxis auf den Grund und stellt sie dem wandelnden Physiologie-Lexikon Frans van den Berg.
Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) – Für alle Pathologien am Kniegelenk
Authors: Huber Omega E.
Published: July 2017

Der KOOS besticht durch seine umfassenden Einsatzmöglichkeiten bei Kniebeschwerden und erfüllt die Gütekriterien in einem guten Maß. Er fragt Patienten nach ihren Symptomen und beurteilt, inwieweit sie in den ADLs und ihrer Lebensqualität eingeschränkt sind. Ein sehr empfehlenswertes Assessment.
Exokrine Pankreasinsuffizienz
Authors: Schmiedel Volker
Published: July 2017

Unter einer EPI (exokrine Pankreasinsuffizienz) versteht man eine ungenügende Produktion von Verdauungssäften in der Bauchspeicheldrüse. In
der Folge dieser Insuffizienz kommt es zunächst zu einer Steatorrhoe. Später sinkt die Verdauungsleistung für Eiweiße und zum Schluss auch
für Kohlenhydrate. Die übliche Therapie mit Enzymen erscheint einfach, greift aber bei einer schweren EPI nicht. Warum nicht und wie dem zu
begegnen ist, wird im Rahmen dieses Beitrags dargestellt.
Das Mikrobiom als Therapieziel bei funktionellen und chronisch entzündlichen Magen-Darm-Erkrankungen
Authors: Langhorst Jost , Koch Anna K.
Published: July 2017

Das Mikrobiom spielt eine wichtige Rolle im Krankheitsgeschehen funktioneller sowie chronisch entzündlicher Darmerkrankungen (CED). Im Zuge
der gesteigerten Aufmerksamkeit für das Mikrobiom wurde nach der Etablierung der Probiotikatherapie in den S3-Leitlinien für Colitis
ulcerosa und das Reizdarmsyndrom auch die Therapieform des fäkalen Mikrobiotatransfers wiederentdeckt. Die standardisierte Anwendung im
klinischen Alltag für die Indikationen CED und Reizdarmsyndrom ist jedoch noch nicht in Aussicht. Weitere Ansätze mit potenziell positiven
Effekten auf das Mikrobiom bieten darüber hinaus Phytotherapeutika. Bei Patienten, die an funktionellen oder chronisch entzündlichen
Darmbeschwerden leiden, können diese das Behandlungsspektrum wirkungsvoll ergänzen und erweitern.
Phytotherapeutische Optionen beim Reizdarmsyndrom
Authors: Chrubasik-Hausmann Sigrun
Published: July 2017

Etwa 15 % der Bevölkerung in Deutschland leiden an einem Reizdarmsyndrom nach den Kriterien ROM III. Klinisch geht das Reizdarmsyndrom mit
einem Blähbauch, Bauchschmerzen und Durchfall oder Verstopfung einher. Das Reizdarmsyndrom kann viele Ursachen haben, die bei der Behandlung
berücksichtigt werden müssen. Zu den pflanzlichen Behandlungen des Reizdarmsyndroms gehören Hagebuttenpulver, eine als Fertigpräparat
verfügbare Pflanzenextrakt-Kombination, Kapseln mit Pfefferminzöl und die pflanzlichen Antidepressiva Johanniskraut oder Lavendelöl. Bei
Oberbauchbeschwerden mit Sodbrennen empfiehlt sich auch ein Saft aus rohen Kartoffeln. Im Einzelfall können zudem Kräutertees und
Urtinkturen hilfreich sein.
Bitterstoffe für einen gesunden Darm
Authors: Überall Florian
Published: July 2017

Immer mehr Menschen sind auf der Suche, nach einem Lebensstil, der sie langfristig gesund halten kann. Bitterstoffe ziehen dabei nur wenige
in Betracht, obwohl sie eine ganze Fülle an Wirkmechanismen im Körper entfalten und den Körper vor zahlreichen Funktionsstörungen schützen
können. So wirken Polyphenole, Tannine und Terpene in bitteren Pflanzen direkt auf die darmassoziierte Mikroflora ein, verbessern die
Verdauung, wirken antioxidativ, leberprotektiv und schützen vor Metainflammationen im Körper. Aufgrund ihrer wichtigen Bedeutung für die
Gesundheit sollten Bitterstoffe daher am besten täglich über die Ernährung oder über Nahrungsergänzungsmittel zugeführt werden.
Combining configurational energies and forces for molecular force field optimization
Authors: Vlcek Lukas , Sun Weiwei , Kent Paul R. C.
Published: July 2017

While quantum chemical simulations have been increasingly used as an invaluable source of information for atomistic model development, the high computational expenses typically associated with these techniques often limit thorough sampling of the systems of interest. It is therefore of great practical importance to use all available information as efficiently as possible, and in a way that allows for consistent addition of constraints that may be provided by macroscopic experiments. Here we propose a simple approach that combines information from configurational energies and forces generated in a molecular dynamics simulation to increase the effective number of samples. Subsequently, this information is used to optimize a molecular force field by minimizing the statistical distance similarity metric. We illustrate the methodology on an example of a trajectory of configurations generated in equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations of argon and water and compare the results with those based on the force matching method.
Quasi bound states in the continuum with few unit cells of photonic crystal slab
Authors: Taghizadeh Alireza , Chung Il-Sug
Published: July 2017

Bound states in the continuum (BICs) in photonic crystal slabs represent the resonances with an infinite quality (Q)-factor, occurring above the light line for an infinitely periodic structure. We show that a set of BICs can turn into quasi-BICs with a very high Q-factor even for two or three unit cell structures. They are explained by a viewpoint of BICs originating from the tight-binding of individual resonances of each unit cell as in semiconductors. Combined with a reciprocal-space matching technique, the microcavities based on quasi-BICs can achieve a Q-factor as high as defect-based PhC microcavities. These results may enable the experimental studies of BICs in a compact platform as well as realizing high-Q mirrorless microcavities.
Effect of pressure on nanostructured Gd3Fe5O12
Authors: Rovani P. R. , Ferreira A. S. , Pereira A. S. , de Lima J. C.
Published: July 2017

The effect of pressure on mechanically alloyed nanostructured Gd3Fe5O12 was investigated using in situ angle-dispersive X-ray diffraction measurements at room temperature. No structural phase transitions were observed, but an anomalous behavior in the volume vs. pressure curve, attributed to nonhydrostatic effects, was observed in the pressure range between 4.4 GPa and 9.1 GPa. The analysis of effect of pressure on the Wickoff 23c sites, occupied by Gd3+ ions, 16a and 24d sites, occupied by Fe3+ ions, and 96h sites, occupied by O2– ions, was performed. The value of the bulk modulus B0 for nanostructured Gd3Fe5O12 could not be determined due to nonhydrostatic effects associated with the silicone oil used as a pressure transmitting medium.
A Monte-Carlo simulation of ionic conductivity and viscosity of highly concentrated electrolytes based on a pseudo-lattice model
Authors: Ozaki Hiroyuki , Kuratani Kentaro , Sano Hikaru , Kiyobayashi Tetsu
Published: July 2017

Simulating three transport phenomena—ionic conductivity, viscosity, and self-diffusion coefficient—in a common Monte-Carlo framework, we discuss their relationship to the intermolecular interactions of electrolyte solutions at high concentrations (C/mol l−1 ∼ 1). The simulation is predicated on a pseudolattice model of the solution. The ions and solvents (collectively termed “molecules”) are considered dimensionless points occupying the lattice sites. The molecular transport is realized by a repetition of swapping two adjacent molecules by the stochastic Gibbs sampling process based on simple intermolecular interactions. The framework has been validated by the fact that the simulated ionic conductivity and dynamic viscosity of 1:1- and 2:1-salts qualitatively well represent the experimental data. The magnitude of the Coulombic interaction itself is not reflected in the ionic conductivity, but the extent to which the Coulombic interaction is shielded by the dielectric constant has a significant influence. On the other hand, the dielectric constant barely influences the viscosity, while the magnitude of the Coulombic interaction is directly reflected in the viscosity.
Minimal distributed charges: Multipolar quality at the cost of point charge electrostatics
Authors: Unke Oliver T. , Devereux Mike , Meuwly Markus
Published: July 2017

Most empirical force fields use atom-centered point charges (PCs) to represent the electrostatic potential (ESP) around molecules. While such PC models are computationally efficient, they are unable to capture anisotropic electronic features, such as σ holes or lone pairs. These features are better described using atomic multipole (MTP) moments, which significantly improve the quality of the resulting ESP. However, the improvement comes at the expense of a considerably increased computational complexity and cost for calculating the interaction energies and forces. In the present work, a novel minimal distributed charge model (MDCM) based on off-centered point charges is presented and the quality of the resulting ESP is compared to the performance of MTPs and atom-centered PC models for several test molecules. All three models are fitted using the same algorithm based on differential evolution, which is available as a Fortran90 program from the authors upon request. We show that the MDCM is capable of approximating the reference ab initio ESP with an accuracy as good as, or better than, MTPs without the need for computationally expensive higher order multipoles. Further it is demonstrated that the MDCM is numerically stable in molecular dynamics simulations and is able to reproduce electrostatic interaction energies and thermodynamic quantities with the same accuracy as MTPs at reduced computational cost.
Magnetohydrodynamic motion of a two-fluid plasma
Authors: Burby J. W.
Published: July 2017

The two-fluid Maxwell system couples frictionless electrons and ion fluids via Maxwell's equations. When the frequencies of light waves, Langmuir waves, and single-particle cyclotron motion are scaled to be asymptotically large, the two-fluid Maxwell system becomes a fast-slow dynamical system. This fast-slow system admits a formally exact single-fluid closure that may be computed systematically with any desired order of accuracy through the use of a functional partial differential equation. In the leading order approximation, the closure reproduces magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). Higher order truncations of the closure give an infinite hierarchy of extended MHD models that allow for arbitrary mass ratio, as well as perturbative deviations from charge neutrality. The closure is interpreted geometrically as an invariant slow manifold in the infinite-dimensional two-fluid phase space, on which two-fluid motions are free of high-frequency oscillations. This perspective shows that the full closure inherits a Hamiltonian structure from the two-fluid theory. By employing infinite-dimensional Lie transforms, the Poisson bracket for the all-order closure may be obtained in the closed form. Thus, conservative truncations of the single-fluid closure may be obtained by simply truncating the single-fluid Hamiltonian. Moreover, the closed-form expression for the all-order bracket gives explicit expressions for a number of the full closure's conservation laws. Notably, the full closure, as well as any of its Hamiltonian truncations, admits a pair of independent circulation invariants.
Linear stability of thermocapillary liquid layers of a shear-thinning fluid
Authors: Hu Kai-Xin , He Meng , Chen Qi-Sheng , Liu Rong
Published: July 2017

The linear stability analysis has been performed for the thermocapillary liquid layers of a shear-thinning fluid. The Carreau fluid model is applied to describe the rheological property. The critical parameters are determined as a function of Prandtl number (Pr), degree of shear-thinning, and gravity level. For linear flow, the shear-thinning effect is destabilizing for small and moderate Pr but increases the stability slightly for large Pr. For return flow, the perturbation kinetic energy concentrates near the surface, and the flow is stabilized when the surface viscosity is used. The streamwise wave is excited at large Pr, and a new mechanism is found at moderate Pr, where the hot spots appear at the bottom of the layer. In the presence of gravity, the viscosity stratification is enhanced and more kinds of different modes are excited. The preferred mode changes to downstream at large Pr while the gravity becomes an important perturbation energy source at small Pr. The shear-thinning effect for the instability mechanism is discussed and the comparisons are made with channel flows.
Effect of artificial length scales in large eddy simulation of a neutral atmospheric boundary layer flow: A simple solution to log-layer mismatch
Authors: Chatterjee Tanmoy , Peet Yulia T.
Published: July 2017

A large eddy simulation (LES) methodology coupled with near-wall modeling has been implemented in the current study for high Re neutral atmospheric boundary layer flows using an exponentially accurate spectral element method in an open-source research code Nek5000. The effect of artificial length scales due to subgrid scale (SGS) and near wall modeling (NWM) on the scaling laws and structure of the inner and outer layer eddies is studied using varying SGS and NWM parameters in the spectral element framework. The study provides an understanding of the various length scales and dynamics of the eddies affected by the LES model and also the fundamental physics behind the inner and outer layer eddies which are responsible for the correct behavior of the mean statistics in accordance with the definition of equilibrium layers by Townsend. An economical and accurate LES model based on capturing the near wall coherent eddies has been designed, which is successful in eliminating the artificial length scale effects like the log-layer mismatch or the secondary peak generation in the streamwise variance.