bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Carbon Nanofiber and Meldola Blue Based Electrochemical Sensor for NADH: Application to the Detection of Benzaldehyde
Authors: Titoiu Ana Maria , Lapauw Maxime , Necula‐Petrareanu Georgiana , Purcarea Cristina , Fanjul‐Bolado Pablo , Marty Jean‐Louis , Vasilescu Alina 
Published: September 2018

AbstractNanomaterials used in tandem with electrochemical mediators on screen‐printed electrodes enable sensitive, low cost detection of NADH with minimal interferences in real‐world samples. In this work we investigated the combination between the mediator Meldola Blue and several types of commercial screen‐printed carbon electrodes, i. e. modified with mesoporous carbon, single wall carbon nanotubes, graphene or carbon nanofibers (CNF) as NADH detectors. The sensors were compared with bare carbon electrodes and with commercially available Meldola Blue‐modified electrodes. The best sensitivity for NADH detection by amperometry was observed for Meldola Blue/CNF electrodes, and further improvement was obtained by mixing the mediator with graphene oxide prior to dropcasting. The “MB‐erGO/CNF” sensors obtained were characterized by a detection limit of 0.5 μM, a linear range of 1–300 μM and a sensitivity of 80.0±2.5 μA cm−2 mmol−1 L, 10 times higher than that of commercial sensors. While the use of graphene oxide lead to enhanced sensitivity and wider linear range, it didn't improve the operational stability as the mediator gradually desorbed from the electrodes. Furthermore, the sensors were coupled with a new NAD+‐dependent aldehyde dehydrogenase from a psychrophilic bacterium for the analysis of benzaldehyde and proven to be advantageous over commercial electrodes with Meldola Blue in circumstances where the detection was limited by NADH detection, i. e. at pH 9.5.
A retrospective observational study of EEG findings and antiepileptic drug use among children referred for EEG to Zambia's University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Ciccone Ornella , Chabala Chishala , Tembo Owen , Mathew Manoj , Grollnek Alice K. , Patel Archana A. , Birbeck Gretchen L. 
Published: September 2018

SummaryObjectiveDespite the heavy burden of epilepsy in Sub‐Saharan Africa, there remains a relative paucity of neurophysiology services and limited published data on electroencephalography (EEG) features among African children. The aim of this study was to describe clinical characteristics, EEG findings, and antiepileptic drug (AED) use among children referred for EEG to the University Teaching Hospital in Zambia.MethodsEEG referrals and reports from 2013–2015 were reviewed. Within the context of routine care, EEG studies were interpreted by readers with advanced training in child neurology and clinical neurophysiology. Clinical data provided in the referral including seizure semiology and EEG findings were systematically extracted and analyzed.ResultsA total of 1,217 EEG reports were reviewed, with 1,187 included in the analysis. Median age was 7 years (interquartile range [IQR] 3–11) and 57% were male. Seventy‐three percent of 554 had documented seizure onset before 5 years of age. Among the 23% with seizure etiology documented, 78% were associated with perinatal injuries and central nervous system (CNS) infections. EEG abnormalities were found in 75% of the studies. Clinical semiology per referral identified focal seizures in 29%, but EEG findings increased this proportion to 63% (p = 0.004). Sixty‐two percent were taking AEDs, with 85% on monotherapy. The most commonly used AED was carbamazepine (49%).There was no association between the choice of AED and clinical semiology (all p's > 0.05).SignificanceThis tertiary care center study identified >60% of referred children to have localization‐related epilepsies, with at least 18% of epilepsies being from potentially preventable causes. These findings are consistent with multi‐country, population‐based data from elsewhere in Africa. Seizure semiology assessed in routine, nonspecialist care does not predict AED choice, and the presence of focality is underestimated in routine care.
A novel hot aerosol extinguishing agent with high efficiency for Class B fires
Authors: Yan Ye , Du Zhiming , Han Zhiyue 
Published: September 2018

SummaryA novel hot aerosol extinguishing agent (HAEA), which is the combination of pyrotechnics and flame retardant technology, was found to have great efficiency in extinguishing Class B fires. A mixture of P and P3N5, referred to as P90x, was chosen as the reductant, and phase stabilized ammonium nitrate was chosen as the oxidant. This paper describes a study of the effectiveness of this agent in extinguishing n‐heptane fires (ie, Class B fires). We determined that the best efficiency was 15 g/m3 for extinguishing n‐heptane fires, four times more efficient than a traditional agent. The efficiency increases as the mass fraction of P90x rises. We also identified the key difference between the novel extinguishing agent and the traditional agent. The former consists of an inorganic phosphorus compound, while the latter is mainly comprised of KOH. Consequently, their extinguishing mechanisms are different. The phosphorus oxide of the novel HAEAs is the leading component to extinguish fire, which is more effective than alkali salts.
Experimental assessment of bench‐scale ignitability parameters
Authors: Vermina Plathner Frida , van Hees Patrick 
Published: September 2018

SummaryThis work aims to explore possible ways of improving the precision of ignition measurements in the cone calorimeter. Both inherent repeatability of parts of the testing equipment and operator‐dependent variations are considered. Inherent repeatability is indicated to be slightly improved if the test samples used are circular rather than square. Operator‐dependent variation is discussed in terms of the method used for determining ignition. Four procedures are compared, namely, visual observation, usage of a light sensor, and looking at the peak of the second and first derivatives of the mass loss and heat release curves, respectively. Results indicate that the preferable operator‐independent method depends on the test conditions; the derivative of the heat release rate is an alternative to the mass loss rate derivative when the scale is of standardised quality. A light sensor for ignition time observation is a good option when the surrounding light is not changed during the test.
The relationship between the serotonin 2A receptor gene –1438A/G and 102T/C polymorphisms and citalopram/sertraline‐induced nausea in major depressed patients
Authors: Demirbugen Oz Merve , Uckun Zuhal , Yuce‐Artun Nazan , Baskak Bora , Ozdemir Hatice , Kizil Ozel Tugba , Devrimci Ozguven Halise , Suzen H. Sinan 
Published: September 2018

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between the polymorphisms of –1438A/G and 102T/C in the 5‐HT2A receptor (HTR2A) gene and nausea/vomiting as a side effect induced by sertraline (SERT) or citalopram (CIT) in patients with major depressive disorder.MethodsA total of 128 patients were enrolled, 63 patients received CIT, whereas 65 patients were treated with SERT. Nausea/vomiting were assessed with the UKU Side‐effects Rating Scale at baseline and at the end of the second and fourth weeks. Polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism technique was employed to determine genetic differences.ResultsWe have found that, in the patients treated with CIT, there was a nominally significant difference in the genotypic distribution associated with ‐1438A/G polymorphism between patients with and without nausea (X2 = 6.15, p = 0.041). Moreover, logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between nausea/vomiting as a side effect and –1438A/G polymorphism. That is, patients with the G allele were at a higher risk for developing nausea/vomiting (p = 0.044, odds ratio = 2.213). The 102T/C polymorphism in the HTR2A gene had no significant effect on the nausea/vomiting as a side effect among participants treated with either CIT or SERT.ConclusionThe present study suggests the association of the HTR2A gene –1438A/G polymorphism with nausea/vomiting as a side effect related to CIT treatment.
Review of the effects of silver nanoparticle exposure on gut bacteria
Authors: Li Jiangyan , Tang Meng , Xue Yuying 
Published: September 2018

AbstractGut bacteria are involved in regulating several important physiological functions in the host, and intestinal dysbacteriosis plays an important role in several human diseases, including intestinal, metabolic and autoimmune disorders. Although silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are increasingly being incorporated into medical and consumer products due to their unique physicochemical properties, studies have indicated their potential to affect adversely the gut bacteria. In this review, we focus on the biotoxicological effects of AgNPs entering the gastrointestinal tract and the relationship of these effects with important nanoscale properties. We discuss in detail the mechanisms underlying the bactericidal toxicity effects of AgNPs and explore the relationships between AgNPs, gut bacteria and disease. Finally, we highlight the need to focus on the negative effects of AgNPs usage to facilitate appropriate development of these particles.
Comparison of enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay with indirect immunofluorescence assay for the diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection
Authors: Gao Chun‐Hai , Ji Bao‐Ju , Han Chao , Wang Mao‐Shui 
Published: September 2018

BackgroundThe study aimed to compare enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) in the diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.MethodsFrom March 2016 to May 2017, 180 patients suspected with M. pneumoniae infection were enrolled. The SeroMP kit using ELISA and PNEUMOSLIDE kit using IFA were performed in parallel to detect the IgM antibodies against M. pneumoniae. Cohen's kappa statistics were used to assess the agreement between the ELISA and IFA assays, multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate risk factors for the discordance between the ELISA and IFA assays.ResultsThe mean age of the enrolled subjects was 46.6 ± 21.1 years. For detection of M. pneumoniae infection, the positivities of the ELISA and IFA assays were 15.6% (95% CI: 11.0%, 21.6%) and 10.0% (95% CI: 6.4%, 15.3%), respectively. The total positivity was 19.4% (95% CI: 14.3%, 25.8%). The agreement between the ELISA and IFA assays was low (κ = 0.117, P < 0.001). Variables associated with discordant results between ELISA and IFA assays in multivariate analysis were as follows: male (OR: 0.366; 95% CI: 0.149, 0.899; P < 0.05), age (>33 years old; OR: 0.313; 95% CI: 0.129, 0.758; P < 0.05).ConclusionIn detection of M. pneumoniae infection, low agreement was found in IgM assays between the ELISA and IFA methods, female and younger age were significant risk factors for the discordance. A combination of ELISA and IFA tests would be recommended, in order to detect more patients suspected of M. pneumoniae infection in clinical practice.
Suppression of long noncoding RNA NCK1‐AS1 increases chemosensitivity to cisplatin in cervical cancer
Authors: Zhang Wei‐Yi , Liu Yin‐Jiao , He Yan , Chen Ping 
Published: September 2018

AbstractCervical cancer remains a serious health problem till now, with nearly 500,000 women cases diagnosed each year around the world. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is a novel class of RNA transcripts (>200 nucleotides in length) participating in gene transcription, cell proliferation, differentiation, and drug resistance. This study aimed to explore the regulatory relationship among lncRNA NCK1‐AS1, miR‐134‐5p, and MutS protein homolog 2 (MSH2), so that the resistance against cisplatin in cervical cancer treatment could be better understood. Comprehensive lncRNA profiling analysis was performed to screen lncRNAs differentially expressed in cervical cancer. The expression patterns of miR‐134‐5p, NCK1‐AS1, and MSH2 were evaluated in cancerous tissues and adjacent normal tissues obtained from 75 cervical cancer patients. Subsequently, anti‐NCK1‐AS1 small interfering RNA, miR‐134‐5p mimics, and miR‐134‐5p inhibitors were transfected into cervical cancer cells, and the effects of these transcripts on cisplatin resistance and cell apoptosis were investigated. The regulatory relationship among NCK1‐AS1, miR‐134‐5p, and MSH2 was identified using a dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay, and the results were further validated by RNA pull‐down and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Based on the microarray data of GSE63514 and GSE27678, NCK1‐AS1 was upregulated in cervical cancer. Increased expression of NCK1‐AS1, MSH2, and decreased expression of miR‐134‐5p were observed in cervical cancer tissues. In addition, NCK1‐AS1 competitively bound to miR‐134‐5p to regulate MSH2. Therefore, si‐NCK1‐AS1 and miR‐134‐5p mimic both reduced MSH2 activity and increased cisplatin‐induced apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. Taken together, NCK1‐AS1 may become a novel target in improving the chemotherapeutic response and survival of cervical cancer patients.
One‐pot, Three‐component Synthesis of a Series of New Bis‐pyrrolo[2,3‐d]pyrimidines in the Presence of TPAB under Reflux Conditions
Authors: Ahmadi Sabegh Mehdi , Khalafy Jabbar , Etivand Nasser 
Published: September 2018

A one‐pot, three‐component reaction of 1,4‐phenylene‐bis‐glyoxal, 6‐aminouracils, and dimedone or barbituric acid derivatives in the presence of tetrapropylammonium bromide (5 mol%) in ethanol under reflux conditions gave a series of new bis‐pyrrolo[2,3‐d]pyrimidine derivatives in high yields.
Detection of T. forsythia and other important bacteria in crestal and subcrestal implants with ligature‐induced peri‐implant infection in dogs
Authors: Zhu Bin , Meng Huanxin , Huang Baoxin , Chen ZhiBin , Lu Ruifang 
Published: September 2018

AbstractBackgroundThe study was designed to compare peri‐implant microbial colonization of inflamed implants placed at different levels in dogs.MethodsTwo screwed‐in (SI) and two tapped‐in (TI) conical connection implants were placed on each side of mandibles in six dogs respectively. Four experimental groups were constituted according to implant types and placement depth in one side: SI crestally (SIC), SI 1.5 mm subcrestally (SIS), TI crestally (TIC), and TI 1.5 mm subcrestally (TIS). Plaque accumulation of implants was promoted by cotton ligatures at either side randomly selected in each dog four weeks after abutment connection. Peri‐implant sulcular fluid (PISF) samples were collected at 4 weeks, 10 weeks, and 16 weeks after abutment connection. Common periodontal pathogens in PISF were analyzed by PCR and realtime‐PCR to investigate the influence of placement depth on microbial accumulation. The microbial results were further correlated with clinical parameters.ResultsAt ligatured sides, detection rates of T. forsythia and P. gingivalis increased significantly in four groups. T. forsythia levels increased significantly from baseline in four groups at ligatured sides at 16 weeks (p < 0.05). TIS group harbored significantly more T. forsythia than TIC at ligatured sides at 16 weeks (p < 0.05). At ligatured sides, probing depth was correlated to T. forsythia level in four groups as well as in total.ConclusionsSubcrestal placement could increase the peri‐implant T. forsythia level at the early stage of peri‐implantitis. The T. forsythia level in the peri‐implant sulcus is associated with probing depth.
Raman spectroscopy of the eight natural carbonate minerals of calcite structure
Authors: Dufresne William J.B. , Rufledt Carson J. , Marshall Craig P. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractTo date, only five natural carbonate minerals of calcite structure have been studied by Raman spectroscopy. These include calcite (CaCO3), magnesite (MgCO3), siderite (FeCO3), smithsonite (ZnCO3), and rhodochrosite (MnCO3). Thus far, only synthetic compounds of otavite (CdCO3), spherocobaltite (CoCO3), and gaspeite (NiCO3) have been investigated by Raman spectroscopy. However, the Raman spectra of natural otavite, spherocobaltite, and gaspeite have yet to be interpreted and compared with the Raman spectra of the other five natural carbonate minerals of calcite structure. This work has been undertaken to fill this gap and provide a comparison and interpretation of Raman spectra representative of all the eight natural carbonate minerals of calcite structure. The data here show that the carbonate Eg (T) phonon shifts are due to influences from the nearest neighbor distance; that is, M‐O, and different ionic radii of the divalent metal cation, as shown graphically by a strong correlation (r2 = 0.87 and 0.91, respectively). Using this graphical approach, we have developed a Raman spectroscopic model based on the equation, y = −2.067x + 356.2 (±5 pm) to calculate the ionic radii of the divalent metal cation present within the mineral and hence affording the identification and discrimination of calcite‐group minerals based on the band position of the Eg (T) mode.
Dispersive solid‐phase extraction of selected nitrophenols from environmental water samples using a zirconium‐based amino‐tagged metal–organic framework nanosorbent
Authors: Salimi Maryam , Behbahani Mohammad , Sobhi Hamid Reza , Ghambarian Mahnaz , Esrafili Ali 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThis study has centered on the establishment of an efficient, simple and reliable dispersive solid‐phase extraction method followed by an accurate trace determination of selected nitrophenols as a class of compounds with high toxicity and low degradability. To achieve the above goal, a zirconium‐based amino‐tagged metal–organic framework nanosorbent was synthesized, characterized and eventually employed for the extraction of two nitrophenols from various environmental water samples. Once the extraction of analytes had occurred, they were desorbed from the metal–organic framework sorbent using an appropriate mixed solvent followed by high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. Under the optimal extraction conditions, the calibration curves for the analytes were linear over the concentration range of 1–200 μg/L. The accuracy of the method was tested by the relative recovery experiments on the fortified real samples with the results falling within the range of 91 to 106%, while the corresponding precisions varied in the span of 4.6–9.0%. Based on a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3, the method detection limits were determined to be 0.5 μg/L for both analytes.
Asymmetric Copolymers: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications of Gradient and Other Partially Segregated Copolymers
Authors: Zhang Junliang , Farias‐Mancilla Barbara , Destarac Mathias , Schubert Ulrich S. , Keddie Daniel J. , Guerrero‐Sanchez Carlos , Harrisson Simon 
Published: September 2018

AbstractAsymmetric copolymers are a class of materials with intriguing properties. They can be defined by a distribution of monomers within the polymer chain that is neither strictly segregated, as in the case of block copolymers, nor evenly distributed throughout each chain, as in the case of statistical copolymers. This definition includes gradient copolymers as well as block copolymers that contain segments of statistical copolymer. In this review, different methods to synthesize asymmetric copolymers are first discussed. The properties of asymmetric copolymers are investigated in comparison to those of block and random counterparts of similar composition. Finally, some examples of applications of asymmetric copolymers, both academic and industrial, are demonstrated. The aim of this review is to provide a perspective on the design and synthesis of asymmetric copolymers with useful applications.
Design and construction of an innovative brain phantom prototype for MRI
Authors: Altermatt Anna , Santini Francesco , Deligianni Xeni , Magon Stefano , Sprenger Till , Kappos Ludwig , Cattin Philippe , Wuerfel Jens , Gaetano Laura 
Published: September 2018

PurposeThe purpose of this project was to construct a physical brain phantom for MRI, mimicking structure and T1 relaxation properties of white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM).MethodsThe phantom design comprised 2 compartments, 1 resembling the WM and 1 resembling the GM. Their T1 relaxation times, as assessed using an inversion recovery turbo spin echo sequence, were reproduced using an agar gel doped with contrast agent (CA) and their folding patterns were simulated through a molding‐casting procedure using 3D‐printed casts and flexible silicone molds. Three versions of the assembling procedure were adopted to build: Phantom1 without any separation; Phantom2 with a varnish layer; and Phantom3 with a thin wax layer between the compartments.ResultsPhantom1 was characterized by an immediate diffusion of CA between the 2 compartments. Phantom2 and Phantom3, instead, showed relaxation times and shape comparable with the target ones identified in a healthy control subject (WM: 754 ± 40 ms; GM: 1277 ± 96 ms). Moreover, both compartments revealed intact gyri and sulci. However, the diffusion of CA made Phantom2 stable only for a short period of time. Phantom3 showed stability within a time window of several days but the wax layer between the WM and GM was visible in the MRI.ConclusionStructural and intensity properties of the constructed phantoms are useful in evaluating and validating steps from image acquisition to image processing. Moreover, the described constructing procedure and its modular design make it adjustable to a variety of applications.
The effectiveness of magnetic stimulation for patients with pelvic floor dysfunction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pan Hong , Bao Yong , Cao Honghao , Jin Rongjiang , Wang Pu , Zhang Junmei 
Published: September 2018

AimsTo evaluate the value of magnetic stimulation (MS) in patients with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD).MethodsThe Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis (PRISMA) statement was followed. We searched five databases for articles published until November 2017. Included studies investigated the effects of MS on PFD. Meta‐analysis of RCTs was performed using a random effects model, and narrative analysis was undertaken where meta‐analysis was not possible.ResultsA total of 20 studies including 1019 patients were eligible for inclusion whose level of evidence for the included studies was low. Meta‐analysis of four trials comparing MS with sham intervention showed that MS was not associated with significant improvement in ICIQ‐SF score (−0.52, 95%CI −1.05, 0.01; P = 0.06, I2 = 16%), QOL score (−0.27, 95%CI −0.57, 0.04; P = 0.09, I2 = 0%), number of leakages (−0.16, 95%CI −0.62, 0.29; P = 0.48, I2 = 52%), and pad test (−1.36, 95%CI −2.64, −0.08; P = 0.04, I2 = 94%). Narrative review showed that there were no convincing evidences that MS was effective for chronic pelvic floor pain, detrusor overactivity, overactive bladder, and the included RCTs had controversial results. MS may have some benefits for nocturnal enuresis and erectile dysfunction according to the trials.ConclusionsThere is no convinced evidence to support the benefits of using MS in the management of PFD. The applicability of MS in the treatment of PFD remains uncertain, so larger, well‐designed trials with longer follow‐up periods adopted relevant and comparable outcomes are needed to be further explored to provide a definitive conclusion.