bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Sialic Acid Derivatives Using Immobilized N‐Acetylneuraminate Lyase in a Continuous Flow Reactor
Authors: Bloemendal Victor R. L. J. , Moons Sam J. , Heming Jurriaan J. A. , Chayoua Mohamed , Niesink Olaf , van Hest Jan C. M. , Boltje Thomas J. , Rutjes Floris P. J. T.
Published: April 2019

The synthesis of N‐acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) derivatives is drawing more and more attention in glycobiology research because of the important role of sialic acids in e. g. cancer, bacterial, and healthy cells. Chemical preparation of these carbohydrates typically relies on multistep synthetic procedures leading to low overall yields. Herein we report a continuous flow process involving N‐acetylneuraminate lyase (NAL) immobilized on Immobead 150P (Immobead‐NAL) to prepare Neu5Ac derivatives. Batch experiments with Immobead‐NAL showed equal activity as the native enzyme. Moreover, by using a fivefold excess of either N‐acetyl‐D‐mannosamine (ManNAc) or pyruvate the conversion and isolated yield of Neu5Ac were significantly improved. To further increase the efficiency of the process, a flow setup was designed providing a chemoenzymatic entry into a series of N‐functionalized Neu5Ac derivatives in conversions of 48–82%, and showing excellent stability over 1 week of continuous use.

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Enantioselective Isoprenylboration Reaction of Aldehydes Catalyzed by a Chiral Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Zhang Yu‐Long , He Bo‐Jun , Xie Yi‐Wen , Wang Yu‐Hao , Wang Yi‐Long , Shen Yong‐Cun , Huang Yi‐Yong
Published: April 2019

The BINOL‐derived chiral phosphoric acid (R)‐TRIP is utilized as an organocatalyst in the asymmetric isoprenylboration reaction of aldehydes, wherein hydrogen‐bond interactions play a key role in the control of enantioselectivity. A wide arrays of enantioenriched dienyl homoallyl alcohols, including two natural products (−)‐Ipsdienol and (−)‐Ipsenol, have been successfully constituted. The synthetic application to chiral isoprenylated isobenzofuranone, vinyloxirane and cyclohexene derivatives has also been disclosed.

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Asymmetric Synthesis of Spirooxindoles with Seven Stereocenters via Organocatalyzed One‐pot Three‐component Sequential Cascade Reactions
Authors: Zhao Bo‐Liang , Du Da‐Ming
Published: April 2019

A bifunctional squaramide‐catalyzed one‐pot three‐component Michael/Mannich‐Michael/cyclization sequential cascade reaction for the construction of bispirooxindole‐spirooxindoles was developed in good yields with excellent stereoselectivities (up to >20:1 dr, 99% ee). A series of original cinnamoyl‐3‐ylideneoxindoles have been applied to this sequential cascade strategy for the first time. This new strategy provides a process for the enantioselective construction of bispirooxindole‐spirooxindoles with seven stereocenters, of which three are quaternary spiro‐stereocenters.

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Formation of CaCO3 deposits on OMS‐2 surface to synergistically promote peroxymonosulfate activation and organic dyes degradation
Authors: Zou Qiancheng , Wei Yi , Wang Shuai , Xie Jinyan , Xu Aihua , Li Xiaoxia
Published: April 2019

The development of green and efficient catalysts for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation and organic pollutants degradation has received widespread attention. In this study, the hybrid CaCO3/OMS‐2 catalysts were prepared by a simple precipitation approach and characterized by X‐ray powder diffraction, N2 adsorption–desorption, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. It was found that deposition of CaCO3 on OMS‐2 surface can weaken the Mn‐O bond by formation of Ca‐O‐Mn bond. The interactions between CaCO3 and OMS‐2 significantly enhanced Acid Orange 7 degradation in the presence of PMS with a pseudo‐first‐order kinetic constant of 0.21 min−1, which was much higher than those of OMS‐2 (0.026 min−1) and CaCO3 (0.021 min−1). The CaCO3/OMS catalysts were also much more efficient than other reported OMS‐2 hybrid catalysts, and could be performed over a wide solution pH and for other organic dyes degradation. Sulfate and hydroxyl radicals were formed from the oxidation of low valent manganese species by PMS as the active species in the system. This study can provide a simple method for the design of efficient manganese‐based hybrids for wastewater remediation via PMS activation.
Effect of individual food preferences on oscillatory brain activity
Authors: Tashiro Nachie , Sugata Hisato , Ikeda Takashi , Matsushita Kojiro , Hara Masayuki , Kawakami Kenji , Kawakami Keisuke , Fujiki Minoru
Published: April 2019

Objectives

During the anticipatory stage of swallowing, sensory stimuli related to food play an important role in the behavioral and neurophysiological aspects of swallowing. However, few studies have focused on the relationship between food preferences and oscillatory brain activity during the anticipatory stage of swallowing. Therefore, to clarify the effect of individual food preferences on oscillatory brain activity, we investigated the relationship between food preferences and oscillatory brain activity during the observation of food images.

Methods

Here we examined this relationship using visual food stimuli and electroencephalography (EEG). Nineteen healthy participants were presented 150 images of food in a random order and asked to rate their subjective preference for that food on a 4‐point scale ranging from 1 (don't want to eat) to 4 (want to eat). Oscillation analysis was performed using a Hilbert transformation for bandpass‐filtered EEG signals.

Results

The results showed that the oscillatory beta band power on C3 significantly decreased in response to favorite foods compared to disliked food.

Conclusion

This result suggests that food preferences may impact oscillatory brain activity related to swallowing during the anticipatory stage of swallowing. This finding may lead to the development of new swallowing rehabilitation techniques for patients with dysphagia by applying food preferences to modulate oscillatory brain activity.
Focus on Epithelialized Palatal Grafts. Part 2: Implant Site Development
Authors: Berridge Joshua P. , Johnson Thomas M. , Erley Kenneth J. , Hill Richard B. , Lane Jonathan D. , Schlam Kimberly K. , Dunham Daniel D. , Miller Preston D.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

The epithelialized palatal graft (EPG), introduced in 1963, has persisted as the gold standard for gingival augmentation, and in the present era, mucosal augmentation around dental implants has become an important concern. A limited body of evidence suggests peri‐implant mucosal augmentation may favorably impact bone and mucosal stability and peri‐implant health under some circumstances. Although more contemporary procedures for peri‐implant mucosal augmentation are often preferred based on convenience and esthetic considerations, EPG augmentation at dental implant sites is distinguishable from methods which do not deepen the vestibule and eliminate unfavorable superficial soft tissue. Implant sites augmented with EPG are qualitatively distinct from sites augmented using other methods.

Case Series

Seven generally healthy patients received EPG augmentation before dental implant placement, at implant placement, before implant uncovering, or after implant uncovering. In each case, the patient exhibited a favorable zone of attached peri‐implant mucosa following treatment.

Conclusions

Reliable mucosal augmentation with EPG is achievable at multiple phases in the course of dental implant therapy. EPG augmentation offers distinct clinical advantages and may be preferable to other mucosal augmentation strategies at some dental implant sites.
Landslide‐generated wave hazard prediction based on multiphase flow model of DualSPHysics
Authors: Jiang Quan , Chen Xiliang
Published: April 2019

Because involving a large number of discrete particles interacting with water, simulating the fluid–solid coupling problem of landslide‐generated waves in a virtual environment is very difficult. This paper employs the DualSPHysics multiphase flow model to relatively easily simulate the dynamics of landslide‐generated waves in large scales. In addition, the simulation results are well visualized by the marching cubes algorithm. It is found that, when the factors of the landslide scale, the water length, and water depth are fixed, the initial maximum wave height decreases as the water width increases. After the water is squeezed by the falling slider, one‐way and two‐way propagations of the surge are generated under 2D and 3D conditions, respectively. In addition, under the true‐3D condition, although the initial swell generated is smaller than the 2D and quasi‐2D conditions, it will generate a large wave height during the climbing and undulation of the near shore. In the 2D condition, the surge generated is almost the largest. Therefore, when using the DualSPHysics multiphase flow model to predict the maximum wave height generated by landslide surges, a 2D simulation can be used to improve work efficiency.
Synthesis of Benzophenones and in vitro Evaluation of Their Anticancer Potential in Breast and Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Saidi Lydia , Rocha Djenisa H. A. , Talhi Oualid , Bentarzi Yamina , Nedjar‐Kolli Bellara , Bachari Khaldoun , Almeida Paz Filipe A. , Helguero Luisa A. , Silva Artur M. S.
Published: April 2019

Breast and prostate cancers are frequently treated with chemotherapy. Several novel chemicals are being reported for this purpose, particularly synthetic and natural benzophenones. This work reports the synthesis of substituted 2‐hydroxybenzophenones through 1,4‐conjugate addition/intramolecular cycloaddition/dehydration of nitromethane on key intermediate chromones. Structures were extensively studied by means of 2D NMR spectroscopy and single‐crystal XRD. Their cytotoxicity was evaluated in vitro in two breast cancer cell lines (MDA‐MB‐231 and T47‐D) and one prostate cancer cell line (PC3). The most potent compound exhibited good cytotoxic effects against the three cancer cell lines (IC50values ranging from 12.09 to 26.49 μm) and induced cell‐cycle retardation only on prostate cancer cells, which suggested that it might exert cell‐type‐specific effects.
Examining the color, size, and packaging design of wireless‐mouse products
Authors: Kuo Lung‐Wen , Lai Chih‐Chun
Published: April 2019

With the progress of science and technology, computer peripheral products are constantly evolving. The use of touch rather than mouse operation in mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones has gained popularity because of its convenience for browsing the Internet and using apps or communication software. However, the mouse remains an essential piece of equipment for using computer software to design products and playing computer games. Wireless mice were the subject of this study, which investigated the optimal size, color, and packaging style for various mouse products. First, this study involved assessment and comparison of the sizes of commercially available wireless mice. Five sizes of mouse were selected. We then designed experiments, and participants performed tasks and completed questionnaires. The results were collected and analyzed to select the optimum product size for users. The study examined the user's psychological and emotional responses to mouse color. By conducting semantic differential analysis, 16 colors were selected for psychological testing, and the results were analyzed to identify the most suitable color. Finally, we investigated the optimal packaging styles for mouse products. In the experiment, eight styles were combined with 10 colors to produce 80 packaging styles. We use the Likert scale to collect data. The results show that the black mouse and the size of 64.5 × 95 × 35 mm3 are the most popular.
Genetic diversity and phylogeography of Daphnia similoides sinensis located in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River
Authors: Wu Jianxun , Wang Wenping , Deng Daogui , Zhang Kun , Peng Shuixiu , Xu Xiaoxue , Zhang Yanan , Zhou Zhongze
Published: April 2019

Geographical patterns, climate, and environmental change have important influences on the distribution and spread of aquatic organisms. However, the relationships between the geographical pattern and phylogenetics of Daphnia as well as environmental change are not well known. The genetic diversity and phylogeography of seven D. similoides sinensis populations located in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River were investigated based on the combination of mitochondrial (COI gene) and nuclear (14 microsatellite primers) markers. Based on the mitochondrial gene markers, D. similoides sinensis from the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River had one ancestral haplotype and two evolutionary clades. In addition, D. similoides sinensis population deviated from neutral evolution, showing signs of a bottleneck effect followed by population expansion. Based on the microsatellite markers, the seven D. similoides sinensis populations formed three main groups. The dendrogram (NJ/ME) showed that D. similoides sinensis based on the mitochondrial genes marker were obviously clustered two main clades, whereas there were three clades based on the microsatellite markers. Our results suggested that the habitat fragmentation due to the barrier of the dams and sluices promoted the genetic differentiation and phylogeography of D. similoides sinensis populations in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River.
Identification of key genes and pathways in benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Ke Zhi‐Bin , Cai Hai , Wu Yu‐Peng , Lin Yun‐Zhi , Li Xiao‐Dong , Huang Jin‐Bei , Sun Xiong‐Lin , Zheng Qing‐Shui , Xue Xue‐Yi , Wei Yong , Xu Ning
Published: April 2019

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common causes of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in elderly man. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of BPH have not been completely elucidated. We identified the key genes and pathways by using analysis of Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using edgeR. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed for the DEGs by Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) database and ConsensusPathDB, respectively. Then, protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were established by the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database and visualized by Cytoscape software. Finally, we identified 660 DEGs ultimately including 268 upregulated genes and 392 downregulated genes. GO analysis revealed that DEGs were mainly enriched in extracellular exosome, identical protein binding, mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis coupled proton transport, extracelluar matrix, focal adhesion, cytosol, Golgi apparatus, cytoplasm, protein binding, and Golgi membrane. Focal adhesion pathway, FoxO signaling pathway, and autophagy pathway were selected. Ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme E2 C (UBE2C), serine/threonine kinase (AKT1), mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1), cyclin B1 (CCNB1), polo‐like kinase 1 (PLK1) were filtrated as the hub genes according to the degree of connectivity from the PPI network. The five hub genes including UBE2C, AKT1, MAPK1, CCNB1, PLK1 may play key roles in the pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Focal adhesion pathway, FoxO signaling pathway, and autophagy pathway may be crucial for the progression of BPH.
The potential role of miR‐29 in health and cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy
Authors: Alizadeh Mohsen , Safarzadeh Ali , Beyranvand Fatemeh , Ahmadpour Fatemeh , Hajiasgharzadeh Khalil , Baghbanzadeh Amir , Baradaran Behzad
Published: April 2019

miR‐29 family is one of the small noncoding RNAs and has a very important role in many physiologic and pathologic functions through regulating the target genes that play roles in various bioprocesses such as proliferation, survival, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. Thus, we aim to survey the potential of the miR‐29 family in normal model and development and progression of malignancy in this study. In addition, the potential role of miR‐29 family has been studied as the clinical marker for the diagnosis and prognosis of many cancers as the potential targets to treat cancer. Moreover, it was stated in summary that the herbal compounds can regulate miR‐29 family in cancers. Therefore, regulating the expression of the miR‐29 family in a variety of cancers can be a new strategy to obtain better results from cancerous patients’ treatment in the future.
Sox2 dosage: A critical determinant in the functions of Sox2 in both normal and tumor cells
Authors: Metz Ethan P. , Rizzino Angie
Published: April 2019

The stem cell transcription factor Sox2 is widely recognized for its many roles during normal development and cancer. Over the last several years, it has become increasingly evident that Sox2 dosage plays critical roles in both normal and malignant cells. The work described in this review indicates that the dosage of Sox2 influences cell fate decisions made during normal mammalian development, as well as cell fate decisions in cancer, including those that influence the tumor cell of origin and progression of the cancer. Equally important, Sox2 dosage is a key determinant in the proliferation of both normal cells and tumor cells, where proliferation is restricted in Sox2high cells. Collectively, the studies reviewed here indicate that tumor cells utilize the fundamental effects of Sox2 dosage to suit their own needs. Finally, we speculate that elevated expression of Sox2 helps establish and maintain tumor dormancy in Sox2‐positive cancers.
Predictors of Academic Stress Among College Students
Authors: Karaman Mehmet A. , Lerma Eunice , Vela Javier Cavazos , Watson Joshua C.
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine factors predictive of college students' academic stress. Three hundred seven undergraduate students (179 men, 128 women) participated in the study. Results indicated that female college students had higher academic stress than did male college students. Bivariate correlations and multiple regression analyses revealed that life satisfaction, locus of control, and gender were significant predictors of academic stress. Directions for future research and implications for counselors are discussed.
Solution Properties of Alkyl β‐D‐Maltosides
Authors: Li Zhencao , Chen Guoyong , Chen Langqiu , Zhang Yanhua , Dai Zhiyong
Published: April 2019

Alkyl β‐D‐maltosides are an important class of sugar‐based nonionic surfactants and have been widely studied. Nevertheless, it is still necessary to investigate further their amphiphilic structure‐surface property relationships. In this article, we reported a series of properties of synthetic alkyl β‐D‐maltosides (6a–6i, n = 6–18) including their hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB) number, water solubility, hygroscopicity, moisture‐retention capacity, foaming ability, surface tension, thermotropic phase behavior, and skin irritation. Their HLB number and water solubility decreased with increasing alkyl chain length. Hexyl β‐D‐maltoside exhibited the strongest hygroscopicity and moisture‐retention capacity. Decyl β‐D‐maltoside and dodecyl β‐D‐maltoside possessed excellent foaming power and foaming stability. Furthermore, the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of alkyl β‐D‐maltoside (6a–6g, n = 6–14) and their surface tension at CMC decreased with increasing alkyl chain length. At last, alkyl β‐D‐maltosides (6a–6g) should be considered as safe surfactants by the skin irritation assessment.
Adaptation of acneic and non acneic strains of Cutibacterium acnes to sebum‐like environment
Authors: Borrel Valérie , Gannesen Andrei V. , Barreau Magalie , Gaviard Charlotte , Duclairoir‐Poc Cécile , Hardouin Julie , Konto‐Ghiorghi Yoan , Lefeuvre Luc , Feuilloley Marc G. J.
Published: April 2019

Cutibacterium acnes, former Proprionibacterium acnes, is a heterogeneous species including acneic bacteria such as the RT4 strain, and commensal bacteria such as the RT6 strain. These strains have been characterized by metagenomic analysis but their physiology was not investigated until now. Bacteria were grown in different media, brain heart infusion medium (BHI), reinforced clostridial medium (RCM), and in sebum like medium (SLM) specifically designed to reproduce the lipid rich environment of the sebaceous gland. Whereas the RT4 acneic strain showed maximal growth in SLM and lower growth in RCM and BHI, the RT6 non acneic strain was growing preferentially in RCM and marginally in SLM. These differences were correlated with the lipophilic surface of the RT4 strain and to the more polar surface of the RT6 strain. Both strains also showed marked differences in biofilm formation activity which was maximal for the RT4 strain in BHI and for the RT6 strain in SLM. However, cytotoxicity of both strains on HaCaT keratinocytes remained identical and limited. The RT4 acneic strain showed higher inflammatory potential than the RT6 non acneic strain, but the growth medium was without significant influence. Both bacteria were also capable to stimulate β‐defensine 2 secretion by keratinocytes but no influence of the bacterial growth conditions was observed. Comparative proteomics analysis was performed by nano LC‐MS/MS and revealed that whereas the RT4 strain only expressed triacylglycerol lipase, the principal C. acnes virulence factor, when it was grown in SLM, the RT6 strain expressed another virulence factor, the CAMP factor, exclusively when it was grown in BHI and RCM. This study demonstrates the key influence of growth conditions on virulence expression by C. acnesand suggest that acneic and non acneic strains are related to different environmental niches.
The identification of a RNA splice variant in TULP1 in two siblings with early‐onset photoreceptor dystrophy
Authors: Verbakel Sanne K. , Fadaie Zeinab , Klevering B. Jeroen , van Genderen Maria M. , Feenstra Ilse , Cremers Frans P. M. , Hoyng Carel B. , Roosing Susanne
Published: April 2019

Background

Early‐onset photoreceptor dystrophies are a major cause of irreversible visual impairment in children and young adults. This clinically heterogeneous group of disorders can be caused by mutations in many genes. Nevertheless, to date, 30%–40% of cases remain genetically unexplained. In view of expanding therapeutic options, it is essential to obtain a molecular diagnosis in these patients as well. In this study, we aimed to identify the genetic cause in two siblings with genetically unexplained retinal disease.

Methods

Whole exome sequencing was performed to identify the causative variants in two siblings in whom a single pathogenic variant in TULP1 was found previously. Patients were clinically evaluated, including assessment of the medical history, slit‐lamp biomicroscopy, and ophthalmoscopy. In addition, a functional analysis of the putative splice variant in TULP1 was performed using a midigene assay.

Results

Clinical assessment showed a typical early‐onset photoreceptor dystrophy in both the patients. Whole exome sequencing identified two pathogenic variants in TULP1, a c.1445G>A (p.(Arg482Gln)) missense mutation and an intronic c.718+23G>A variant. Segregation analysis confirmed that both siblings were compound heterozygous for the TULP1 c.718+23G>A and c.1445G>A variants, while the unaffected parents were heterozygous. The midigene assay for the c.718+23G>A variant confirmed an elongation of exon 7 leading to a frameshift.

Conclusion

Here, we report the first near‐exon RNA splice variant that is not present in a consensus splice site sequence in TULP1, which was found in a compound heterozygous manner with a previously described pathogenic TULP1 variant in two patients with an early‐onset photoreceptor dystrophy. We provide proof of pathogenicity for this splice variant by performing an in vitro midigene splice assay, and highlight the importance of analysis of noncoding regions beyond the noncanonical splice sites in patients with inherited retinal diseases.
Global existence of smooth solution to 2D relativistic membrane equation in asymptotically flat FLRW space‐time
Authors: Wei Changhua
Published: April 2019

This paper is concerned with the 2D relativistic membrane equation evolving in curved space‐time, whose metric is prescribed as a small perturbation to the flat Friedmann‐Lemaître‐Robertson‐Walker (FLRW) metric with time‐dependent coefficients. Thanks to the partial “null structure” of the membrane equation and the properties of the background metric, we could prove the global stability of a class of time‐dependent solutions by weighted energy estimate.
Finite time blowup for Klein‐Gordon‐Schrödinger system
Authors: Shi Qihong , Zhang Xiao‐Bing , Wang Changyou , Wang Shu
Published: April 2019

We investigate the blowup solutions to the Klein‐Gordon‐Schrödinger (KGS) system with power nonlinearity in spatial dimensions
(N ≥ 2). Relying on a Lyapunov functional, we establish a perturbed virial‐type identity and prove the existence of blowup solutions for the system with a negative energy and small mass. Moreover, we obtain a new finite‐time blowup result of solutions to KGS system in the energy space by constructing a differential inequality.
Identifying and treating intrinsic PEEP in infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Napolitano Natalie , Jalal Khair , McDonough Joseph M. , Monk Heather M. , Zhang Huayan , Jensen Erik , Dysart Kevin C. , Kirpalani Haresh M. , Panitch Howard B.
Published: April 2019

Rationale

Infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (sBPD) and airway obstruction may develop dynamic hyperinflation and intrinsic positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEPi), which impairs patient/ventilator synchrony.

Objectives

To determine if PEEPi is present in infants with sBPD during spontaneous breathing and if adjusting ventilator PEEP improves patient/ventilator synchrony and comfort.

Methods

Interventional study in infants with sBPD. PEEPi measured by esophageal pressure (Pes) and pneumotachometer, during pressure‐supported breaths. PEEP
i defined as the difference between Pes at start of the inspiratory effort minus Pes at onset of inspiratory flow. The set PEEP was adjusted to minimize PEEP
i. “Best PEEP” was the setting with minimal wasted efforts (WE), an inspiratory effort seen on the Pes waveform without a corresponding ventilator breath. FiO
2 and SpO
2 measured pre‐ and post‐PEEP adjustment. Sedation requirements evaluated 72 hours preprocedure and postprocedure.

Results

Twelve infants were assessed (gestational age, 24.9 ± 1.4 weeks; study age, 48.8 ± 1.5 weeks, postmenstrual age). Mean baseline ventilator PEEP was 16.4 cm H2O (14‐20 cm H
2O). Eight infants required an increase, one, a reduction, and three, no change in the set PEEP. For the eight infants requiring an increase in set PEEP, there was an 18.9% reduction in WE and a reduction in FiO
2 (0.084
 ±
 0.058) requirements in the subsequent 24 hours. Conditional sedation was reduced in five infants postprocedure. No adverse events occurred during testing.

Conclusion

PEEPi is measurable in infants with sBPD with concurrent esophageal manometry and flow‐time tracings without the need for pharmacological paralysis. In those with PEEP
i, increasing ventilator PEEP to offset PEEP
i improves synchrony.
Different anti‐Műllerian hormone (AMH) levels respond to distinct ovarian stimulation methods in assisted reproductive technology (ART): Clues to better ART outcomes
Authors: Ishii Rena , Tachibana Naoyuki , Okawa Riho , Enomoto Megumi , Asami Mai , Toriumi Rena , Hamada Michiko , Horikawa Michiharu , Akiba Yoko , Taketani Yuji
Published: April 2019

Purpose

We asked whether the relationship between anti‐Műllerian hormone (AMH) value and the response to ovarian stimulation (OS) might be AMH value‐related and differ for each regimen, aiming at getting clues as to how to choose OS protocols according to AMH levels. We further addressed how AMH value connects with ART outcome.

Methods

A total of 1112 women undergoing egg retrieval in ART were included. We adopted four OS protocols, that is, clomiphene, clomiphene + low‐dose gonadotropins (Gns), GnRH (Gn‐releasing hormone) + Gns (short), and GnRH antagonist.

Results

Anti‐Műllerian hormone showed a stronger correlation with egg number compared with age over a wide age range. When patients were stratified into four groups by AMH value (<1, 1‐2, 2‐3, and 3≦ ng/mL), the relationship between AMH and egg number differed among differential OS regimes. The number of eggs rose as AMH and total doses of Gn increased. When analyzed for each AMH group, egg number, but not AMH, was associated with pregnancy rate.

Conclusion

Different AMH levels exhibit characteristic responses to distinct OS regimens. To improve ART outcomes, personalized OS should be selected so as to maximize egg number, which seems to be a more precise variable than AMH for predicting pregnancy.
Sharp asymptotic for the chemical distance in long‐range percolation
Authors: Biskup Marek , Lin Jeffrey
Published: April 2019

We consider instances of long‐range percolation on and , where points at distance r get connected by an edge with probability proportional to r−s, for s ∈ (d,2d), and study the asymptotic of the graph‐theoretical (a.k.a. chemical) distance D(x,y) between x and y in the limit as |x − y|→∞. For the model on we show that, in probability as |x|→∞, the distance D(0,x) is squeezed between two positive multiples of , where for γ: = s/(2d). For the model on we show that D(0,xr) is, in probability as r→∞ for any nonzero , asymptotic to for φ a positive, continuous (deterministic) function obeying φ(rγ) = φ(r) for all r > 1. The proof of the asymptotic scaling is based on a subadditive argument along a continuum of doubly‐exponential sequences of scales. The results strengthen considerably the conclusions obtained earlier by the first author. Still, significant open questions remain.
Prenatal identification of small‐for‐gestational age and risk of neonatal morbidity and stillbirth
Authors: Nohuz E. , Rivière O. , Coste K. , Vendittelli F.
Published: April 2019

Objective

To assess whether prenatal identification of small‐for‐gestational age (SGA) was associated with lower rates of the primary composite outcome of stillbirth, death in the delivery room or neonatal complications, and secondary outcomes of the composite outcome according to gestational age at delivery, stillbirth and low 5‐min Apgar score.

Methods

This historical cohort study included women who had a singleton delivery (≥ 32 weeks) between 1994 and 2011 at one of 247 French maternity units. We excluded pregnancies terminated medically, infants with malformations or with missing data on estimated fetal weight or birth weight, and women with missing delivery data. Among the 24 946 infants born SGA (< 5th percentile), we compared those who had been identified as such prenatally (n = 5093; 20%), with those who had not (n = 19 853; 80%). The main outcome was a composite variable defined as stillbirth or death in the delivery room, or transfer to a neonatal department either immediately or during the neonatal stay in the obstetrics ward. Secondary outcomes were the composite outcome according to gestational age at delivery (32 to < 35 weeks; 35 to < 37 weeks, 37 to < 40 weeks, or ≥ 40 weeks), stillbirth and low 5‐min Apgar score (≤ 4 and < 7).

Results

The mean ± SD birth weight was 2449.1 ± 368.3 g. The rate of the main composite outcome was higher in the group identified prenatally as SGA compared with non‐identified SGA fetuses (39.5% vs 13.5%; adjusted relative risk (aRR), 1.29; 95% CI, 1.21–1.38). This association was not observed in the subgroups delivered before 37 weeks. The stillbirth rate was lower in fetuses with prenatal suspicion of SGA (aRR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.27–0.79), while the 5‐min Apgar score did not differ between the two groups. The a‐posteriori study power with α = 0.05 was 99%.

Conclusion

Prenatal identification of SGA was not associated with lower fetal or neonatal morbidity overall, although it was associated with a lower rate of stillbirth. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Constructing Inductive-Inductive Types in Cubical Type Theory
Authors: Hugunin Jasper
Published: April 2019

Inductive-inductive types are a joint generalization of mutual inductive types and indexed inductive types. In extensional type theory, inductive-inductive types can be constructed from inductive types, and this construction has been conjectured to work in intensional type theory as well. In this paper, we show that the existing construction requires Uniqueness of Identity Proofs, and present a new construction (which we conjecture generalizes) of one particular inductive-inductive type in cubical type theory, which is compatible with homotopy type theory.
Mass deformed ABJM and $$ \mathcal{P}\mathcal{T} $$ symmetry
Authors: Anderson Louise , Roberts Matthew M.
Published: April 2019

Abstract

We consider real mass and FI deformations of ABJM theory preserving supersymmetry in the large N limit, and compare with holographic results. On the field theory side, the problems amounts to a spectral problem of a non-Hermitian Hamiltonian. For certain values of the deformation parameters this is invariant under an antiunitary operator (generalised

$$ \mathcal{P}\mathcal{T} $$

P
T

symmetry), which ensures the partition function remains real and allows us to calculate the free energy using tools from statistical physics. The results obtained are compatible with previous work, the important new feature being that these are obtained directly from the real deformations, without analytic continuation.
Immediate response to major incidents: defining an immediate responder!
Authors: Khorram-Manesh Amir , Plegas Patricia , Högstedt Åsa , Peyravi Mahmoudreza , Carlström Eric
Published: April 2019

Purpose

There is a gap in time between the occurrence of a mass casualty incident (MCI) and the arrival of the first responders to the scene, which offers an opportunity for the public (immediate responders) to perform life-saving measures. The purpose of this study was to identify these measures and the public’s willingness to conduct them.

Method

An extensive literature review was performed to identify the possible measures that can be undertaken by the public. A group of experts were asked to prioritize and rank the feasibility of performing the measures by the public. Finally, the public was asked whether they were willing to do the chosen measures before and after an appropriate education.

Results

Twenty different measures were identified and presented in a questionnaire as statements, which were prioritized and ranked by the expert group into four categories: what (1) should be done, (2) is good to know how, (3) is not necessary to know, and (4) should not be done. All statements were converted into understandable statements and were sent to the public. There were some differences and some agreements between the experts and the public regarding what an immediate responder should do. However, the willingness of the public to perform most of the measures was high and increased after being offered an appropriate education.

Conclusion

The use of immediate responders is a life-saving approach in MCIs and in situations when every minute counts and every human resource is an invaluable asset. Multiple steps, such as education, empowerment, and access, should be taken into consideration to enable bystanders to effectively help struggling survivors.
Perioperative Mortality Rates as a Health Metric for Acute Abdominal Surgery in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Future Recommendations
Authors: Felizaire Marie‐Rachelle , Paradis Tiffany , Beckett Andrew , Fata Paola , Grushka Jeremy , Johnson Walter , Khwaja Kosar , Meara John G. , Ndayisaba Gabriel , Prakash Ipshita , Razek Tarek , Somprasong Tongmeesee , Wong Evan , Yohannan Prem , Deckelbaum Dan L.
Published: April 2019

Background

Approximately 5 billion people do not have access to safe, timely, and affordable surgical and anesthesia care, with this number disproportionately affecting those from low–middle‐income countries (LMICs). Perioperative mortality rates (POMRs) have been identified by the World Health Organization as a potential health metric to monitor quality of surgical care provided. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate published reports of POMR and suggest recommendations for its appropriate use as a health metric.

Methods

The protocol was registered a priori with PROSPERO. A peer‐reviewed search strategy was developed adhering with the PRISMA guidelines. Relevant articles were identified through Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, CDSR, LILACS, PubMed, BIOSIS, Global Health, Africa‐Wide Information, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Two independent reviewers performed a primary screening analysis based on titles and abstracts, followed by a full‐text screen. Studies describing POMRs of adult emergency abdominal surgeries in LMICs were included.

Results

A total of 7787 articles were screened of which 7466 were excluded based on title and abstract. Three hundred and twenty‐one articles entered full‐text screen of which 70 articles met the inclusion criteria. Variables including timing of POMR reporting, intraoperative mortality, length of hospital stay, complication rates, and disease severity score were collected. Complication rates were reported in 83% of studies and postoperative stay in 46% of studies. 40% of papers did not report the specific timing of POMR collection. 7% of papers reported on intraoperative death. Additionally, 46% of papers used a POMR timing specific to the duration of their study. Vital signs were discussed in 24% of articles, with disease severity score only mentioned in 20% of studies.

Conclusion

POMR is an important health metric for quantifications of quality of care of surgical systems. Further validation and standardization are necessary to effectively use this health metric.
A 5‐Year Evaluation of the Implementation of Triple Diagnostics for Early Detection of Severe Necrotizing Soft Tissue Disease: A Single‐Center Cohort Study
Authors: Nawijn Femke , Houwert Roderick M. , van Wessem Karlijn P. J. , Simmermacher Rogier K. J. , Govaert Geertje A. M. , van Dijk Marijke R. , de Jong Mirjam B. , de Bruin Ivar G. J. , Leenen Luke P. H. , Hietbrink Falco
Published: April 2019

Background

The standardized approach with triple diagnostics (surgical exploration with visual inspection, microbiological and histological examination) has been proposed as the golden standard for early diagnosis of severe necrotizing soft tissue disease (SNSTD, or necrotizing fasciitis) in ambivalent cases. This study's primary aim was to evaluate the protocolized approach after implementation for diagnosing (early) SNSTD and relate this to clinical outcome.

Methods

A cohort study analyzing a 5‐year period was performed. All patients undergoing surgical exploration (with triple diagnostics) for suspected SNSTD since implementation were prospectively identified. Demographics, laboratory results and clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed.

Result

Thirty‐six patients underwent surgical exploration with eight (22%) negative explorations. The overall 30‐day mortality rate was 25%, with an early, SNSTD‐related mortality rate of 11% (n = 3). Of these, one patient (4%) underwent primary amputation, but died during surgery. No significant differences between baseline characteristics were found between patients diagnosed with SNSTD in early/indistinctive or late/obvious stage. Patient diagnosed at an early stage had a significantly shorter ICU stay (2 vs. 6 days, p = 0.031). Mortality did not differ between groups; patients who died were all ASA IV patients.

Conclusion

Diagnosing SNSTD using the approach with triple diagnostics resulted in a low mortality rate and only a single amputation in a pre‐terminal patient in the first 5 years after implementation. All deceased patients had multiple preexisting comorbidities consisting of severe systemic diseases, such as end‐stage heart failure. Early detection proved to facilitate faster recovery with shorter ICU stay.
What Proportion of Female Sex Workers Practise anal Intercourse and How Frequently? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Owen Branwen Nia , Baggaley Rebecca F. , Elmes Jocelyn , Harvey Amy , Shubber Zara , Butler Ailsa R. , Silhol Romain , Anton Peter , Shacklett Barbara , van der Straten Ariane , Boily Marie-Claude
Published: April 2019

HIV is more efficiently acquired during receptive anal intercourse (AI) compared to vaginal intercourse (VI) and may contribute substantially to female sex workers’ (FSW) high HIV burden. We aim to determine how common and frequent AI is among FSW globally. We searched PubMed, Embase and PsycINFO for studies reporting the proportion of FSW practising AI (prevalence) and/or the number of AI acts (frequency) worldwide from 01/1980 to 10/2018. We assessed the influence of participant and study characteristics on AI prevalence (e.g. continent, study year and interview method) through sub-group analysis. Of 15,830 identified studies, 131 were included. Nearly all (N = 128) reported AI prevalence and few frequency (N = 13), over various recall periods. Most studies used face-to-face interviews (N = 111). Pooled prevalences varied little by recall period (lifetime: 15.7% 95%CI 12.2–19.3%, N = 30, I2 = 99%; past month: 16.2% 95%CI 10.8–21.6%, N = 18, I2 = 99%). The pooled proportion of FSW reporting < 100% condom use tended to be non-significantly higher during AI compared to during VI (e.g. any unprotected VI: 19.1% 95%CI 1.7–36.4, N = 5 and any unprotected AI: 46.4% 95%CI 9.1–83.6, N = 5 in the past week). Across all study participants, between 2.4 and 15.9% (N = 6) of all intercourse acts (AI and VI) were anal. Neither AI prevalence nor frequency varied substantially by any participant or study characteristics. Although varied, AI among FSW is generally common, inconsistently protected with condoms and practiced sufficiently frequently to contribute substantially to HIV acquisition in this risk group. Interventions to address barriers to condom use are needed.
In Situ Synthesis of Fluorescent Mesoporous Silica–Carbon Dot Nanohybrids Featuring Folate Receptor-Overexpressing Cancer Cell Targeting and Drug Delivery
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Sun Shan , Jiang Kai , Wang Yuhui , Liu Yu , Wu Song , Li Zhongjun , Shu Qinghai , Lin Hengwei
Published: April 2019

Multifunctional nanocarrier-based theranostics is supposed to overcome some key problems in cancer treatment. In this work, a novel method for the preparation of a fluorescent mesoporous silica–carbon dot nanohybrid was developed. Carbon dots (CDs), from folic acid as the raw material, were prepared in situ and anchored on the surface of amino-modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs–NH2) via a microwave-assisted solvothermal reaction. The as-prepared nanohybrid (designated MSNs–CDs) not only exhibited strong and stable yellow emission but also preserved the unique features of MSNs (e.g., mesoporous structure, large specific surface area, and good biocompatibility), demonstrating a potential capability for fluorescence imaging-guided drug delivery. More interestingly, the MSNs–CDs nanohybrid was able to selectively target folate receptor-overexpressing cancer cells (e.g., HeLa), indicating that folic acid still retained its function even after undergoing the solvothermal reaction. Benefited by these excellent properties, the fluorescent MSNs–CDs nanohybrid can be employed as a fluorescence-guided nanocarrier for the targeted delivery of anticancer drugs (e.g., doxorubicin), thereby enhancing chemotherapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects. Our studies may provide a facile strategy for the fabrication of multifunctional MSN-based theranostic platforms, which is beneficial in the diagnosis and therapy of cancers in future.
Longitudinal associations between sexting, cyberbullying, and bullying among adolescents: Cross‐lagged panel analysis
Authors: Van Ouytsel Joris , Lu Yu , Ponnet Koen , Walrave Michel , Temple Jeff R.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

While adolescent sexting, or the sending of sexually explicit images, has been cross‐sectionally associated with bullying and cyberbullying, there is a lack of longitudinal studies in this area. To address this gap in the literature, we examined the longitudinal link between sexting and 1) traditional, in‐person, bullying victimization and 2) cyberbullying victimization.

Methods

We used data from a longitudinal study of ethnically diverse adolescents recruited from multiple public high schools in southeast Texas. Three waves of data were used (T2, T3 and T4). Cross‐lagged panel analysis was performed in Mplus to analyze the data.

Results & Conclusions

Cross‐lagged panel analyses identified autoregressive effects for all three variables, and cross‐lagged effects for cyberbullying. Sexting was associated with subsequent cyberbullying victimization across all time points, and T3 cyberbullying victimization was associated with engagement in sexting one year later. Furthermore, T2 cyberbullying victimization indirectly associated with T4 sexting via T3 cyberbullying victimization. For traditional bullying, a cross‐lagged effect was found between T3 sexting and T4 offline bullying victimization. Although T2 sexting did not directly link to subsequent traditional bullying victimization, a significant mediation effect was identified such that T3 sexting mediated the effects of T2 sexting on T4 traditional bullying victimization. Results show that sexting adolescents may be at risk for (cyber)bullying victimization and highlight the need to address both sexting and bullying in prevention and intervention efforts.
SeqSQC: A Bioconductor Package for Evaluating the Sample Quality of Next-Generation Sequencing Data
Authors: Liu Qian , Hu Qiang , Yao Song , Kwan Marilyn L. , Roh Janise M. , Zhao Hua , Ambrosone Christine B. , Kushi Lawrence H. , Liu Song , Zhu Qianqian
Published: April 2019

As next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has become widely used to identify genetic causal variants for various diseases and traits, a number of packages for checking NGS data quality have sprung up in public domains. In addition to the quality of sequencing data, sample quality issues, such as gender mismatch, abnormal inbreeding coefficient, cryptic relatedness, and population outliers, can also have fundamental impact on downstream analysis. However, there is a lack of tools specialized in identifying problematic samples from NGS data, often due to the limitation of sample size and variant counts. We developed SeqSQC, a Bioconductor package, to automate and accelerate sample cleaning in NGS data of any scale. SeqSQC is designed for efficient data storage and access, and equipped with interactive plots for intuitive data visualization to expedite the identification of problematic samples. SeqSQC is available at http://bioconductor.org/packages/SeqSQC.