bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First report of mitochondrial COI in foraminifera and implications for DNA barcoding
Authors: Macher Jan-Niklas , Wideman Jeremy G. , Girard Elsa B. , Langerak Anouk , Duijm Elza , Jompa Jamaluddin , Sadekov Aleksey , Vos Rutger , Wissels Richard , Renema Willem
Published: November 2021

Foraminifera are a species-rich phylum of rhizarian protists that are highly abundant in many marine environments and play a major role in global carbon cycling. Species recognition in Foraminifera is mainly based on morphological characters and nuclear 18S ribosomal RNA barcoding. The 18S rRNA contains variable sequence regions that allow for the identification of most foraminiferal species. Still, some species show limited variability, while others contain high levels of intragenomic polymorphisms, thereby complicating species identification. The use of additional, easily obtainable molecular markers other than 18S rRNA will enable more detailed investigation of evolutionary history, population genetics and speciation in Foraminifera. Here we present the first mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene sequences (“barcodes”) of Foraminifera. We applied shotgun sequencing to single foraminiferal specimens, assembled COI, and developed primers that allow amplification of COI in a wide range of foraminiferal species. We obtained COI sequences of 49 specimens from 17 species from the orders Rotaliida and Miliolida. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the COI tree is largely congruent with previously published 18S rRNA phylogenies. Furthermore, species delimitation with ASAP and ABGD algorithms showed that foraminiferal species can be identified based on COI barcodes.
Non-Hermitian indirect exchange interaction in a topological insulator coupled to a ferromagnetic metal
Authors: Hosseini Mir Vahid , Askari Mehdi
Published: November 2021

We theoretically demonstrate non-Hermitian indirect interaction between two magnetic impurities placed at the interface between a 3D topological insulator and a ferromagnetic metal. The coupling of topological insulator and the ferromagnet introduces not only Zeeman exchange field on the surface states but also broadening to transfer the charge and spin between the surface states of the topological insulator and the metallic states of the ferromagnet. While the former provides bandgap at the charge neutrality point, the latter causes non-Hermiticity. Using the Green’s function method, we calculate the range functions of magnetic impurity interactions. We show that the charge decay rate provides a coupling between evanescent modes near the bandgap and traveling modes near the band edge. However, the spin decay rate induces a stronger coupling than the charge decay rate so that higher energy traveling modes can be coupled to lower energy evanescent ones. This results in a non-monotonic behavior of the range functions in terms of distance and decay rates in the subgap regime. In the over gap regime, depending on the type of decay rate and on the distance, the amplitude of spatial oscillations would be damped or promoted.
Emerging Covalent Organic Framework and Linear Polymer (COF–LP) Composites: Synthetic Approaches and Applications
Authors: Zhu Youlong , Jin Yinghua , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2021

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are rigid, crystalline, and porous solids; while linear polymers (LP) are generally flexible, nonporous, and processable materials that have been used for many practical applications. Therefore, hybridizing the rigid crystalline COFs and flexible LPs could offer COF–LP composite materials with sophisticated architectures and unprecedented properties. Recent studies have shown that incorporating LPs into COFs can greatly improve the properties of COFs for applications in many areas, including ionic conductivity, drug delivery, energy storage, and many others. Linear polymers can not only insert into the pore channels of COFs, but also can graft onto COF particles. Furthermore, they can be used as building blocks to construct polyCOFs, making COF–LP composites diverse in their structures and properties. In this chapter, we highlight the recent development of COF–LP composites, with an emphasis on their synthetic approaches and emerging applications. We also briefly discuss the current challenges and future development of these exciting COF–LP composites.
A bifunctional immunosensor based on osmium nano-hydrangeas as a catalytic chromogenic and tinctorial signal output for folic acid detection
Authors: Pan Junkang , He Qiyi , Lao Zhiting , Zou Yikui , Su Jingyi , Li Qinglan , Chen Zekai , Cui Xiping , Cai Yanfei , Zhao Suqing
Published: November 2021

Schematic of the bifunctional immunosensor based on osmium nano-hydrangeas as a catalytic chromogenic and tinctorial signal output for folic acid detection.
De novosequencing and native mass spectrometry revealed hetero-association of dirigent protein homologs and potential interacting proteins inForsythia×intermedia
Authors: Zhou Mowei , Laureanti Joseph A. , Bell Callum J. , Kwon Mi , Meng Qingyan , Novikova Irina V. , Thomas Dennis G. , Nicora Carrie D. , Sontag Ryan L. , Bedgar Diana L. , O'Bryon Isabelle , Merkley Eric D. , Ginovska Bojana , Cort John R. , Davin Laurence B. , Lewis Norman G.
Published: November 2021

Dirigent proteins (DPs) were first discovered fromForsythiastems, but all of the co-purified proteins were unknown.De novosequencing and native mass spectrometry identified additional proteins and heterocomplexes between two DP homologs.
A novel imine-linked covalent organic framework for rapid detection of methyl paraoxon
Authors: Li Mengyao , Guo Lulu , Chen Lili , Lin Chunhua , Wang Li
Published: November 2021

Methyl paraoxon (MP) has attracted more and more attention in recent years because of its severe neurotoxicity and respiratory toxicity.
Exploring the slow-light effect of Pt/TiO2–SiO2 inverse opal on photocatalytic nonoxidative coupling of methane
Authors: Feng Xiaoyi , Kang Kai , Wu Yang , Zhang Jinlong , Wang Lingzhi
Published: November 2021

The slow-photon effect of inverse opal Pt/TiO2–SiO2 film on the photocatalytic nonoxidative coupling of CH4.
Simultaneous identification and quantification of amino acids in biofluids by reactive 19F-tags
Authors: Chen Ya-Ting , Li Bin , Li Xia-Yan , Chen Jia-Liang , Cui Chao-Yu , Hu Kaifeng , Su Xun-Cheng
Published: November 2021

The reaction of a 19F-tag with amino acids generates characteristic chemical shifts of individual amino acids encoded in the 19F NMR spectrum. The high performance of the 19F-tag was demonstrated in simultaneous quantification of amino acids in fetal bovine serum and cell lysates.
Effects of protecting groups on luminescent metal nanoclusters: spectroscopic signatures and applications
Authors: Chakraborty Subhajit , Mukherjee Saptarshi
Published: November 2021

We discuss the effect of ligands on the preparation of luminescent metal nanoclusters and how this tunes their spectroscopic signatures. The versatile nature of these nanoclusters in terms of multi-faceted applications are also highlighted.
Biocompatible photoinduced CuAAC using sodium pyruvate
Authors: Jeong Jaepil , Szczepaniak Grzegorz , Yerneni Saigopalakrishna S. , Lorandi Francesca , Jafari Hossein , Lathwal Sushil , Das Subha R. , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: November 2021

The use of sodium pyruvate as a photoreducing agent for copper-mediated azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) under UV irradiation is described.
Porphyrin(2.1.2.1) as a novel binucleating ligand: synthesis and molecular structures of mono- and di-rhodium(i) complexes
Authors: Xue Songlin , Liu Ningchao , Mei Peifeng , Kuzuhara Daiki , Zhou Mingbo , Pan Jianming , Yamada Hiroko , Qiu Fengxian
Published: November 2021

Porphyrin(2.1.2.1) could be developed as a new binucleating ligand for making bimetallic complexes.
Effect of tert-butyl groups on electronic communication between redox units in tetrathiafulvalene-tetraazapyrene triads
Authors: Zhou Ping , Aschauer Ulrich , Decurtins Silvio , Feurer Thomas , Häner Robert , Liu Shi-Xia
Published: November 2021

Electronic communication between redox units in tetrathiafulvalene-tetraazapyrene triads is unambiguously mediated by the insertion of tert-butyl groups.
Crystal growth of nanomaterials
Authors: Garnweitner Georg , Lee Kwangyeol , Xue Dongfeng
Published: November 2021

Georg Garnweitner, Kwangyeol Lee and Dongfeng Xue introduce the CrystEngComm themed issue on the crystal growth of nanomaterials.
Spectroscopic analysis focusing on ionic liquid/metal electrode and organic semiconductor interfaces in an electrochemical environment
Authors: Tanabe Ichiro
Published: November 2021

Attenuated total reflectance ultraviolet spectroscopy can facilitate access to ionic liquid/solid substrate interfaces in an electrochemical environment.
Electron momentum density of boron-doped carbon nano-onions studied by electron energy-loss spectroscopy
Authors: Feng Zhenbao , Ding Wei , Lin Yangming , Guo Feng , Zhang Xiaoyan , Song Tengshuo , Li Hengshuai , Liu Cailong
Published: November 2021

Differences between the Compton profile (CP) of pristine carbon nano-onions (CNOs) and the CPs of 1B-CNOs (black), 2B-CNOs (red), and 3B-CNOs (blue).
Exotic nuclear spin behavior in dendritic macromolecules
Authors: Saul Philip , Yang Shengjun , Mamone Salvatore , Opazo Felipe , Meyer Andreas , Rizzoli Silvio O. , Glöggler Stefan
Published: November 2021

Dendrimers display an exotic spin state behavior that we propose to tune for ion sensing.
One-pot production of diethyl maleate via catalytic conversion of raw lignocellulosic biomass
Authors: Cai Zhenping , Chen Rujia , Zhang Hao , Li Fukun , Long Jinxing , Jiang Lilong , Li Xuehui
Published: November 2021

Selective conversion of raw biomass to diethyl maleate was conducted by polyoxometalate ionic liquid [BSmim]CuPW12O40, where up to 329.6 mg g−1 DEM yield, 70.3 % selectivity, and 20.8% carbon yield were obtained at 170 °C for 4 h and 1 MPa O2.
Scattering techniques for mixed donor–acceptor characterization in organic photovoltaics
Authors: Chaney Thomas P. , Levin Andrew J. , Schneider Sebastian A. , Toney Michael F.
Published: November 2021

The effects of mixing in organic photovoltaics are unclear partly due to challenges in characterization. X-Ray and neutron scattering techniques have been successful in quantifying mixing but meet new challenges with emerging non-fullerene systems.
Carbon dots prepared from citric acid and urea by microwave-assisted irradiation as a turn-on fluorescent probe for allantoin determination
Authors: Seedad Ratchadaporn , khuthinakhun Sasimaporn , Ratanawimarnwong Nuanlaor , Jittangprasert Piyada , Mantim Thitirat , Songsrirote Kriangsak
Published: November 2021

Carbon dots from citric acid and urea as a fluorescent probe for sensitive and selective detection of allantoin.
Electron transfer photochromism of solid-state supramolecules constructed by cucurbit[n]uril (n = 5–8) and 1-(4-carboxybenzyl)-4-[2-(4-pyridyl)-vinyl]-pyridinium chloride
Authors: Wang Qin , Liu Mei-Chen , Sun Wen-Qi , Lin Rui-Lian , Liu Jing-Xin
Published: November 2021

Solid-state supramolecular complexes of a bispyridinium ethylene derivative with cucurbit[n = 5–8]uril exhibit fast responsive photochromic properties, which are caused by the electron transfer from the host to the guest.
The Childhood Trauma and Attachment Gap in Speech-Language Pathology: Practitioners' Knowledge, Practice, and Needs
Authors: Rupert Anna C. , Bartlett Diane E.
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

Previous research demonstrates the relevance of childhood trauma and attachment to communication development. This study aimed to understand speech-language pathology (SLP) practitioners' knowledge, beliefs, training, and current practices regarding developmental trauma and attachment.

Method:

An online survey was administered to SLP practitioners (
N
= 97) who work primarily with children from birth to age 6 years in Canada. Quantitative (univariate and bivariate) analysis was performed with SPSS. Qualitative responses were coded by two reviewers using thematic analysis to identify key themes.

Results:

SLP practitioners are working with children who have experienced trauma and adapt their practice when they are aware of this history. Practitioners also indicated, however, that they lack training with respect to trauma and attachment, their understanding of the concepts is narrow, they do not have standardized practices for obtaining trauma history, and they do not adapt their practice in consistent ways. The results show there is interest in understanding how trauma affects communication development, the relevance to their work, and that additional training is needed to support practitioners to identify and respond to trauma in early childhood.

Conclusions:

Findings from this study support SLP practitioners' involvement in early identification of trauma and the development of best practices regarding trauma-informed SLP assessment and intervention. The results also inform how systems and areas of service need to be adjusted to be more accessible, flexible, and collaborative in order to support children and families whose lives have been impacted by trauma and indicate additional areas of research in the area.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.16968097
The Unfolding of Cognitive Effort During Sentence Processing: Pupillometric Evidence From People With and Without Aphasia
Authors: Chapman Laura Roche , Hallowell Brooke
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

Arousal and cognitive effort are relevant yet often overlooked components of attention during language processing. Pupillometry can be used to provide a psychophysiological index of arousal and cognitive effort. Given that much is unknown regarding the relationship between cognition and language deficits seen in people with aphasia (PWA), pupillometry may be uniquely suited to explore those relationships. The purpose of this study was to examine arousal and the time course of the allocation of cognitive effort related to sentence processing in people with and without aphasia.

Method:

Nineteen PWA and age- and education-matched control participants listened to relatively easy (subject-relative) and relatively difficult (object-relative) sentences and were required to answer occasional comprehension questions. Tonic and phasic pupillary responses were used to index arousal and the unfolding of cognitive effort, respectively, while sentences were processed. Group differences in tonic and phasic responses were examined.

Results:

Group differences were observed for both tonic and phasic responses. PWA exhibited greater overall arousal throughout the task compared with controls, as evidenced by larger tonic pupil responses. Controls exhibited more effort (greater phasic responses) for difficult compared with easy sentences; PWA did not. Group differences in phasic responses were apparent during end-of-sentence and postsentence time windows.

Conclusions:

Results indicate that the attentional state of PWA in this study was not consistently supportive of adequate task engagement. PWA in our sample may have relatively limited attentional capacity or may have challenges with allocating existing capacity in ways that support adequate task engagement and performance. This work adds to the body of evidence supporting the validity of pupillometric tasks for the study of aphasia and contributes to a better understanding of the nature of language deficits in aphasia.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.16959376
The Role of Talker Variability in Nonnative Phonetic Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaojuan , Cheng Bing , Zhang Yang
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

High-variability phonetic training (HVPT) has been found to be effective on adult second language (L2) learning, but results are mixed in regards to the benefit of multiple talkers over single talker. This study provides a systematic review with meta-analysis to investigate the talker variability effect in nonnative phonetic learning and the factors moderating the effect.

Method:

We collected studies with keyword search in major academic databases including EBSCO, ERIC, MEDLINE, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, Elsevier, Scopus, Wiley Online Library, and Web of Science. We identified potential participant-, training-, and study-related moderators and conducted a random-effects model meta-analysis for each individual variable.

Results:

On the basis of 18 studies with a total of 549 participants, we obtained a small-level summary effect size (Hedges'g= 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI; 0.08, 0.84]) for the immediate training outcomes, which was greatly reduced (g= −0.04, 95% CI [−0.46, 0.37]) after removal of outliers and correction for publication bias, whereas the effect size for immediate perceptual gains was nearly medium (g= 0.56, 95% CI [0.13, 1.00]) compared with the nonsignificant production gains. Critically, the summary effect sizes for generalizations to new talkers (g= 0.72, 95% CI [0.15, 1.29]) and for long-term retention (g= 1.09, 95% CI [0.39, 1.78]) were large. Moreover, the training program length and the talker presentation format were found to potentially moderate the immediate perceptual gains and generalization outcomes.

Conclusions:

Our study presents the first meta-analysis on the role of talker variability in nonnative phonetic training, which demonstrates the heterogeneity and limitations of research on this topic. The results highlight the need for further investigation of the influential factors and underlying mechanisms for the presence or absence of talker variability effects.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.16959388
Interprofessionelles Wissens- und Skillstraining der PEG-Anlage an Simulatoren – Entwicklung und Testung eines nationalen Curriculums für Ärzte und spezialisierte Pflegende
Authors: Engelke Monika , Grund Karl Ernst , Schilling Dieter , Beilenhoff Ulrike , Kern-Waechter Elisabeth , Engelke Olaf , Stebner Ferdinand , Kugler Christiane
Published: November 2021

Einleitung Ein Positionspapier verschiedener Fachgesellschaften zur Delegation ärztlicher Tätigkeiten in der Gastroenterologie fordert im Abschnitt „Perkutane Punktion bei der Anlage einer perkutanen endoskopischen Gastrostomie (PEG)“ ein nationales Curriculum für Trainingskurse, die vor der Durchführung der Punktion absolviert werden sollen.

Gegenstand der vorliegenden Studie ist die Entwicklung und Testung eines solchen Curriculums. Ziel ist die Vermittlung des notwendigen Wissens und der Skills zur sicheren Durchführung der PEG-Anlage für Ärzte und Pflegende.

Methoden Die Testung erfolgte im Rahmen einer nicht randomisierten, interventionellen Pilotstudie an Simulatoren. Sie umfasste (1) eine Vorbereitungsphase, (2) eine theoretische und (3) eine praktische Phase. Nach der theoretischen Phase erfolgte eine Überprüfung der kognitiven Fähigkeiten mittels Wissenstests. Am Ende der praktischen Phase wurde das Anlageprozedere jedes einzelnen Teilnehmers mehrkanalig auf Video aufgezeichnet und die sensomotorischen Fähigkeiten wurden mithilfe eines Assessmentinstruments (AS-PEG) ausgewertet. Abschließend wurde eine Evaluation mittels Fragebogen zur Zufriedenheit der Teilnehmenden durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse Sieben Ärzte und 17 Pflegende absolvierten die im Curriculum definierten Phasen und abschließenden Prüfungen. Beim Wissenstest wurden durchschnittlich 70,3 ± 3,7 (61–75) von 76 Punkten erreicht. Beim Test zu den erworbenen sensomotorischen Fähigkeiten wurden durchschnittlich 37,1 ± 2,1 (32–40) von 42 Punkten erzielt. Die Evaluation ergab eine hohe Zufriedenheit der Teilnehmenden in Bezug auf Inhalte, Lernzielerreichung und erworbene praktische Fähigkeiten.

Schlussfolgerung Eine Verbreitung des Curriculums wird als sinnvoll und notwendig erachtet, um theoretische und praktische Kenntnisse für Ärzte und Pflegende durch das strukturierte interprofessionelle Wissens- und Skillstraining zu vermitteln und den Pflegenden einen rechtlich abgesicherten Rahmen zu bieten.
Vertebro- und Kyphoplastie
Authors: Thomé Patrick , Vetter Sven
Published: November 2021

Die Vertebroplastie und die Kyphoplastie sind minimalinvasive, perkutane Augmentationsverfahren. Sie werden meist bei schmerzhaften osteoporotischen Wirbelkörperkompressionsfrakturen des älteren Menschen eingesetzt. Durch den demografischen Wandel ist mit einem ansteigenden Versorgungsbedarf zu rechnen. In diesem Beitrag werden Indikationen, technische Prinzipien und mögliche Komplikationen beider Verfahren beleuchtet und die aktuelle Literatur dargestellt.
Pancreaticobiliary endoscopic ultrasound in England 2007 to 2016: Changing practice and outcomes
Authors: Trudgill Nigel , Oppong Kofi W. , Kamran Umair , King Dominic , Dosanjh Amandeep , Coupland Ben , Leeds John , Nayar Manu , Patel Prashant
Published: November 2021

Background and study aims Population-level data on the outcomes of pancreaticobiliary endoscopic ultrasound (PB-EUS) are limited. We examined national PB-EUS and fine-needle aspiration (FNA) activity, its relation to pancreatic cancer therapy, associated mortality and adverse events.

Patients and methods Adults undergoing PB-EUS in England from 2007–2016 were identified in Hospital Episode Statistics. A pancreatic cancer cohort diagnosed within 6 months of PB-EUS were studied separately. Multivariable logistic regression models examined associations with 30-day mortality and therapies for pancreatic cancer.

Results 79,269 PB-EUS in 68,908 subjects were identified. Annual numbers increased from 2,874 (28 % FNA) to 12,752 (35 % FNA) from 2007 to 2016. 8,840 subjects (13 %) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Sedation related adverse events were coded in 0.5 % and emergency admission with acute pancreatitis in 0.2 % within 48 hours of PB-EUS. 1.5 % of subjects died within 30 days of PB-EUS. Factors associated with 30-day mortality included increasing age (odds ratio 1.03 [95 % CI 1.03–1.04]); male sex (1.38 [1.24–1.56]); increasing comorbidity (1.49 [1.27–1.74]); EUS-FNA (2.26 [1.98–2.57]); pancreatic cancer (1.39 [1.19–1.62]); increasing deprivation (least deprived quintile 0.76 [0.62–0.93]) and lower provider PB-EUS volume (2.83 [2.15–3.73]). Factors associated with surgical resection in the pancreatic cancer cohort included lower provider PB-EUS volume (0.44 [0.26–0.74]) and the least deprived subjects (1.33 [1.12–1.57]). 33 % of pancreatic cancer subjects who underwent EUS, did not subsequently receive active cancer treatment.

Conclusions Lower provider PB-EUS volume was associated with higher 30-day mortality and reduced rates of both pancreatic cancer surgery and chemotherapy. These results suggest potential issues with case selection in lower-volume EUS providers.
Clinical practice patterns in indirect peroral cholangiopancreatoscopy: outcome of a European survey
Authors: Stassen Pauline M.C. , de Jonge Pieter Jan F. , Webster George J.M. , Ellrichmann Mark , Dormann Arno J. , Udd Marianne , Bruno Marco J. , Cennamo Vincenzo ,   on behalf of the European Cholangioscopy Group,   and the German Spyglass User Group
Published: November 2021

Background and aims Indirect peroral cholangiopancreatoscopy (IPOC) is a relatively new diagnostic and therapeutic tool for biliopancreatic diseases. This international survey aimed to evaluate clinical practice patterns in IPOC among endoscopists in Europe.

Methods An online survey was developed comprising 66 questions on the use of IPOC. Questions were grouped into four domains. The survey was sent to 369 endoscopists who perform IPOC.

Results 86 respondents (23.3 %) from 21 different countries across Europe completed the survey. The main indications for cholangioscopy were determination of biliary strictures (85 [98.8 %]) and removal of common bile duct or intrahepatic duct stones (79 [91.9 %]), accounting for an estimated use of 40 % (interquartile range [IQR] 25–50) and 40 % (IQR 30–60), respectively, of all cases undergoing cholangioscopy. Pancreatoscopy was mainly used for removal of pancreatic duct stones (68/76 [89.5 %]), accounting for an estimated use of 76.5 % (IQR 50–95) of all cases undergoing pancreatoscopy. Only 13/85 respondents (15.3 %) had an institutional standardized protocol for targeted cholangioscopy-guided biopsy sampling. IPOC with lithotripsy was used as first-line treatment in selected patients with bile duct stones or pancreatic stones by 24/79 (30.4 %) and 53/68 (77.9 %) respondents, respectively.

Conclusions This first European survey on the clinical practice of IPOC demonstrated wide variation in experience, indications, and techniques. These results emphasize the need for prospective studies and development of an international consensus guideline to standardize the practice and quality of IPOC.
Endoscopic duodenal mucosal resurfacing for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): a pilot study
Authors: Hadefi Alia , Verset Laurine , Pezzullo Martina , Rosewick Nicolas , Degré Delphine , Gustot Thierry , Moreno Christophe , Devière Jacques , Trépo Eric
Published: November 2021

Background and study aims Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide with limited treatment options. Duodenal mucosal resurfacing (DMR) has been associated with improvement in glycaemic parameters and liver function tests (LFTs) in type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to assess the effect of DMR in patients with NASH.

Patients and methods This was a single-center, open-label pilot study. Patients with definite, biopsy-proven NASH (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease activity score [NAS] ≥ 4) underwent a single DMR procedure followed by a 2-week postprocedural diet, without lifestyle intervention. The primary outcome was either resolution of NASH with no worsening of fibrosis or improvement in fibrosis (≥ 1 stage) with no worsening of NASH at 12 months. Secondary outcomes were changes in key histological parameters of NASH, surrogate markers of fibrosis, LFTs, and metabolic factors at 12 months.

Results From 2017 to 2019, 14 patients underwent successful DMR, of whom 11 were included in the analysis. After 12 months, no resolution of NASH was observed, while three patients (27 %) had marginal improvement in fibrosis with no worsening of NASH. Serious adverse events related to the procedure were reported in two patients out of 14 (14 %). Neither weight loss nor improvement in NAS score, or in the other secondary outcomes, were observed at 12 months.

Conclusions In this small and heterogenous study population, we found that DMR, in the absence of lifestyle intervention, did not induce NASH resolution and marginally improved liver fibrosis at 12 months.
Initial experience with a homemade “hybrid-tome” for needle-knife precut in patients with difficult biliary cannulation
Authors: De la Morena Madrigal Emilio J. , Rodríguez García Isabel , Galera Ródenas Ana Belén , Pérez Arellano Elena
Published: November 2021

Background and study aims Current clinical guidelines recommend needle-knife precut (NKP) as the primary and best method for performing a biliary cannulation (BC) when simple techniques fail and the criteria are met for difficult BC (DBC). However, many endoscopists avoid or defer early NKP in favor of alternative, simpler techniques that have not been shown to be either safer or more effective. Our goal is to test a device that provides the needle-knife papillotome (NKPT) with traction capability and which can facilitate the learning and execution of NKP.

Patients and methods This was a descriptive bicentric observational study of a personal cohort of patients undergoing early NKP to analyse the efficacy and safety of the technique with a “hybrid-tome” (HT) built using the isolated core of a NKPT and a conventional canulotome.

Results Over a 4-year period, we performed 43 NKPs with the HT, achieving BC in one or two steps in all cases. The 100 % technical success was matched by a 95 % clinical success rate. We recorded 11 adverse events (23 %): five hemorrhages, four pancreatitis, and two cholangitis. In addition to the objective data, we confirmed that HT facilitates alignment with the duodenal papilla and the execution of pre-cutting, especially if the papilla is intradiverticular or hidden by folds.

Conclusions The HT tested seems to help trained endoscopists to perform NKP, especially in some anatomic situations, which can improve compliance with the guidelines recommended for early NKP in patients with DBC.
The feasibility and safety of disposable endoscope vs. conventional endoscope for upper gastrointestinal tract examination: a multicenter, randomized, parallel, non-inferiority trial
Authors: Li De-feng , Shi Rui-yue , Tian Yan-hui , Xu Zheng-lei , Zhou Ying-sheng , Sun Xian-jiu , Cai Jin-wei , Fang Yuan-yuan , Peng Huan , Wang Jia-min , Dong Tao , Cai Yong-de , Yao Jun , wang Li-sheng
Published: November 2021

Background A disposable upper gastrointestinal endoscope can effectively decrease infectious outbreaks associated with endoscope reuse. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a disposable endoscope for upper gastrointestinal examination.

Methods In a prospective, randomized trial, 144 upper endoscopic procedures were allocated to either the disposable endoscope group or the conventional endoscope group. The primary outcomes were rates of excellent and good image qualities and maneuverability satisfaction. The second outcome included procedure duration, endoscopic diagnosis, and adverse events.

Results A total of 144 subjects were enrolled in the present analysis and prospectively randomized to 2 study groups. Finally, 70 and 69 subjects were enrolled in the novel disposable endoscope group and the conventional endoscope group, respectively, due to the schedule cancellation of 5 subjects. The baseline characteristics of the patients were similar in both groups. The excellent and good image quality rates and maneuverability satisfaction of the novel disposable endoscope were not inferior to the conventional endoscope (p = 0.99 and p = 0.99, respectively). Moreover, no significant between-group difference was observed in the endoscopic results and adverse events (p = 0.30 and p = 1, respectively). However, the procedure duration in the novel disposable endoscope was longer compared with the conventional endoscope (8.40 ± 4.28 min vs. 5.12 ± 2.65 min, p < 0.001).

Conclusions The novel disposable endoscope was as safe, effective, and maneuverable as a conventional endoscope. However, the novel disposable endoscope was associated with a longer procedure duration.
Red urine and a red herring – diagnosing rare diseases in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Jud Philipp , Hackl Gerald , Reisinger Alexander Christian , Horvath Angela , Eller Philipp , Stadlbauer Vanessa
Published: November 2021

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has occupied the time and resources of health care professionals for more than 1 year. The risk of missed diagnoses has been discussed in the medical literature, mainly for common diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular events. However, rare diseases also need appropriate attention in times of a pandemic.

Case Report We report a 34-year-old woman with fever, pinprick sensation in her chest and thoracic spine, and dizziness after receiving the first dose of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination. The patient’s condition worsened with abdominal pain, red urine, and hyponatremia, needing intensive care admission. Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) was diagnosed. Vaccine-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis were ruled out. Acute hepatic porphyria was finally diagnosed, and the patient recovered completely after treatment with hemin.

Conclusion Currently, the focus of physicians is on COVID-19 and associated medical problems, such as vaccine side effects. However, it is important to be vigilant for other uncommon medical emergencies in medically exceptional situations that may shift our perception.
A Convenient On-Site Oxidation Strategy for the N-Hydroxylation of Melanostatin Neuropeptide Using Cope Elimination
Authors: Sampaio-Dias Ivo E. , Silva-Reis Sara C. , Pires-Lima Beatriz L. , Correia Xavier Cruz , Costa-Almeida Hugo F.
Published: November 2021

A convenient synthetic protocol for the unprecedented N-hydroxylation of proline residue in Melanostatin (MIF-1) neuropeptide is reported. This methodology is grounded on the incorporation of N-(cyanoethyl)prolyl residue followed by on-site oxidation by Cope elimination with m-chloroperbenzoic acid, exploring the unrecognized dual role of the cyanoethyl group as an effective N-protecting group under peptide synthesis conditions and as a suitable leaving group during the chemoselective on-site N-oxidation. Following this protocol N-hydroxy-MIF-1 is obtained in 78% global yield from N-(cyanoethyl)-l-proline. This synthetic approach opens a new avenue for access to N-hydroxylated Melanostatin analogues with direct application in neurochemistry and Parkinson’s research.
A Chiral Sulfoxide-Based C–H Acid
Authors: List Benjamin , Höfler Denis , Kaupmees Karl , Leito Ivo
Published: November 2021

We report the design and synthesis of a strong, chiral, enantiopure sulfoxide-based C–H acid. Single-crystal X-ray analysis confirms the proposed structure and its absolute configuration. The new motif shows a high acidity and activity in Brønsted and Lewis acid catalyzed transformations. So far, only little to no enantioselectivities were achieved.
The Prognostic Potential of Growth Differentiation Factor-15 on Bleeding Events and Patient Outcome after Cardiac Surgery—A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kazem Niema , Hammer Andreas , Koller Lorenz , Hofer Felix , Steinlechner Barbara , Laufer Günther , Hengstenberg Christian , Wojta Johann , Sulzgruber Patrick , Niessner Alexander
Published: November 2021

Background GDF-15 (growth/differentiation factor 15) is induced by myocardial stretch, volume overload, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Its expression is tightly linked with cardiovascular events as well as the risk for major bleeding and all-cause mortality. The present study aimed to elucidate the prognostic potential of GDF-15 in patients after cardiac surgery.

Methods A total of 504 patients undergoing elective cardiac valve and/or coronary artery bypass graft surgery were prospectively enrolled. GDF-15 levels were measured prior to surgery to evaluate the impact on bleeding events, thromboembolic events, and mortality.

Results Preoperative GDF-15 was associated with the primary endpoint of intra- and postoperative red blood cell transfusion (for bleeding risk factors adjusted [adj] OR [odds ratio] per 1-SD [standard deviation] of 1.62 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.31–2.00]; p < 0.001). Higher concentrations of GDF-15 were observed in patients reaching the secondary endpoint of major or clinically relevant minor bleeding (for bleeding risk factors adj. OR per 1-SD of 1.70 [95% CI: 1.05–2.75]; p = 0.030) during the first postoperative year, but not for thromboembolic events. GDF-15 was a predictor for cardiovascular mortality (for comorbidities adj. HR [hazard ratio] per 1-SD of 1.67 [95% CI: 1.23–2.27]; p = 0.001) and all-cause mortality (for comorbidities adj. HR per 1-SD of 1.55 [95% CI: 1.19–2.01]; p = 0.001). A combined risk model of GDF-15 and EuroSCORE II outperformed the EuroSCORE II alone for long-term survival (C-index: 0.75 [95% CI: 0.70–0.80], p = 0.046; net reclassification improvement: 33.6%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion Preoperative GDF-15 concentration is an independent predictor for intra- and postoperative major bleeding, major bleeding during the first year, and for long-term cardiovascular or all-cause mortality after cardiac surgery.
Indicated Opioids in Pregnancy: Guidance on Providing Comprehensive Care
Authors: Cleary Erin M. , Smid Marcela C. , Bokat Christina , Costantine Maged M. , Rood Kara M.
Published: November 2021

In modern obstetric practice, providers will encounter patients for whom opioid use in pregnancy is reasonable or even necessary. A “one-size-fits-all” approach to the counseling and management of such patients is misguided. Understanding indications for ongoing opioid use in pregnancy is essential to patient-centered care. Specifically, recognition of the nuanced differences between opioid dependence and opioid use disorder is crucial for appropriate diagnosis, screening for common concurrent conditions, adequately counseling about individualized maternal and perinatal risks, and accurate documentation of diagnoses and medical decision-making. In this paper, we explore the current typical scenarios in which opioid use in pregnancy may be encountered, ongoing opioid prescribing should be considered, and provide a guide for the obstetric provider to navigate the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods.

Key Points
An optimized pulse coupled neural network image de-noising method for a field-programmable gate array based polarization camera
Authors: Liu Yueze , Hong Yingping , Lu Zhumao , Zhang Huixin , Xiong Jijun , Zhao Donghua , Shen Chong , Yu Hua
Published: November 2021

The quality of polarization images is easy to be affected by the noise in the image acquired by a polarization camera. Consequently, a de-noising method optimized with a Pulse Coupled Neural Network (PCNN) for polarization images is proposed for a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)-based polarization camera in this paper, in which the polarization image de-noising is implemented using an adaptive PCNN improved by Gray Wolf Optimization (GWO) and Bi-Dimensional Empirical Mode Decomposition (BEMD). Unlike other artificial neural networks, PCNN does not need to be trained, but the parameters of PCNN such as the exponential decay time constant, the synaptic junction strength factor, and the inherent voltage constant play a critical influence on its de-noising performance. GWO is able to start optimization by generating a set of random solutions as the first population and saves the optimized solutions of PCNN. In addition, BEMD can decompose a complicated image into different Bi-Dimensional Intrinsic Mode Functions with local stabilized characteristics according to the input source image, and the decomposition result is able to lower the complexity of heavy noise image analysis. Moreover, the circuit in the polarization camera is accomplished by FPGA so as to obtain the polarization image with higher quality synchronously. These two schemes are combined to attenuate different types of noises and improve the quality of the polarization image significantly. Compared with the state-of-the-art image de-noising algorithms, the noise in the polarization image is suppressed effectively by the proposed optimized image de-noising method according to the indices of peak signal-to-noise ratio, standard deviation, mutual information, structural similarity, and root mean square error.
High-temperature recrystallization effects in swift heavy ion irradiated KY(WO4)2
Authors: Frentrop R. N. , Tormo-Marquez V. , Segerink F. B. , Pujol M. C. , Olivares J. , Garcia-Blanco S. M.
Published: November 2021

KY(WO4)2 crystal has a lot of potential as an on-chip waveguide material for lanthanide ion-doped, Raman active lasers and on-chip amplifiers. One method of fabricating these waveguides is by using swift carbon ion irradiation, which produces a step-like, damage-induced refractive index contrast of up to Δn≈0.2. The irradiation is followed by an annealing step to reduce color centers that cause high optical absorption, leading to an optical slab waveguide with optical transmission losses as low as 1.5 dB/cm at 1550 nm. In this article, we report an upper limit of ∼450°C to the annealing temperature, above which stresses and recrystallization induce additional scattering detrimental to waveguide performance. The effects are characterized using transmission electron microscopy and Raman microscopy.
Helicity-selective Raman scattering from in-plane anisotropic α-MoO3
Authors: Ali Shahzad Akhtar , Irfan Abdullah , Mazumder Aishani , Balendhran Sivacarendran , Ahmed Taimur , Walia Sumeet , Ulhaq Ata
Published: November 2021

Hyperbolic crystals, such as α-MoO3, can support large wavevectors and photon density as compared to the commonly used dielectric crystals, which makes them a highly desirable platform for compact photonic devices. The extreme anisotropy of the dielectric constant in these crystals is intricately linked with the anisotropic character of the phonons, which along with photon confinement leads to the rich physics of phonon polaritons. However, the chiral nature of phonons in these hyperbolic crystals have not been studied in detail. In this study, we report our observations of helicity selective Raman scattering from flakes of α-MoO3. Both helicity-preserving and helicity-reversing Raman scattering are observed. Our studies reveal that helical selectivity is largely governed by the underlying crystal symmetry. This study shed light on the chiral character of the high symmetry phonons in these hyperbolic crystals. It paves the way for exploiting proposed schemes of coupling chiral phonon modes into propagating surface plasmon polaritons and realizing compact photonic circuits based on helical polarized light.
Nuclear magnetic resonance measurements in dynamically controlled field pulse
Authors: Ihara Y. , Hayashi K. , Kanda T. , Matsui K. , Kindo K. , Kohama Y.
Published: November 2021

We present the architecture of the versatile nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer with software-defined radio technology and its application to the dynamically controlled pulsed magnetic fields. The pulse-field technology is the only solution to access magnetic fields greater than 50 T, but the NMR experiment in the pulsed magnetic field was difficult because of the continuously changing field strength. The dynamically controlled field pulse allows us to perform NMR experiment in a quasi-steady field condition by creating a constant magnetic field for a short time around the peak of the field pulse. We confirmed the reproducibility of the field pulses using the NMR spectroscopy as a high precision magnetometer. With the highly reproducible field strength, we succeeded in measuring the nuclear spin-lattice relaxation rate 1/T1, which had never been measured by the pulse-field NMR experiment without dynamic field control. We also implement the NMR spectrum measurement with both the frequency-sweep and field-sweep modes and discuss the appropriate choices of these modes depending on the magnetic properties of the sample to be measured. This development, with further improvement at a long-duration field pulse, will innovate the microscopic measurement in extremely high magnetic fields.
Newton's Laws: Motion and Forces
Authors: Mårtensson-Pendrill Ann-Marie
Published: November 2021

This chapter introduces Newton's laws, which describe the forces acting on our bodies in everyday life, as well as in the example of the rapidly changing motion of amusement rides. Roller coasters are large “inclined planes.” In drop towers your body is exposed to free fall. Your body experiences the forces in circular motion and in two and three dimensions. These forces can be visualized with simple equipment and can also be captured by electronic sensors, e.g., in smartphones carried on your person and measured in your biomechanical coordinate system. They are then expressed in terms of a G vector: G = X/m = a−g, where X is the force from the ride on your body. This vector, commonly referred to as a “G-force,” is independent of mass and is often given in terms of the acceleration of gravity, g ≈ 9.8 ms−2. Authentic data for an elevator and escalator are presented and discussed.
Acceleration and Newton's Second Law
Authors: Mårtensson-Pendrill Ann-Marie
Published: November 2021

Acceleration is at the heart of the experiences in an amusement park as we move down drops, over hills, through helices, and narrow curves of a roller coaster or round and round in carousels. The changing accelerations involve changing forces that can be experienced throughout the body. This chapter focuses on experiences, measurements, and representations of accelerations in an interplay between mathematics and physics. Equations are complemented with graphs of authentic data, sequences of screen shots, simulations, as well as measurements with simple toys as well as electronic sensors, e.g., in a smartphone. This chapter starts with a few simple examples of acceleration in one-dimensional motion such as the horizontal acceleration of an airplane and launched roller coasters. These are followed by examples of vertical acceleration in drop towers, as well as bouncing on a trampoline, where the results of mathematical modelling is compared to real data. Finally a few examples of acceleration in two dimensions are discussed: the horizontal acceleration in teacup and wave swinger rides, as well as the vertical acceleration over roller coaster “airtime” hill.
Educational Visits to Amusement Parks
Authors: Mårtensson-Pendrill Ann-Marie
Published: November 2021

Any amusement park can be seen as a large classroom, where you can experience the laws of physics. Like other informal learning environments, such as museums and science centers, the learning outcome for the students depends on teacher preparation and follow-ups to the visit. Planning a visit can be a logistical challenge due to permissions, travel arrangements, and scheduling. Dividing the class in smaller groups of four to six students preparing assignments in advance can provide many opportunities for discussions about physics concepts. Worksheets can support the discussions and investigations but need to be adapted by the teacher to fit the students in the class. A short worksheet for first-time visitors is discussed in this chapter in some detail, followed by suggestions for expansions for later visits. The chapter closes with a discussion about how amusement parks can support educational visits, from providing relevant data for teachers, to supervised class visits, to the organization of large-scale educational events in collaboration with other actors.
Intracellular nanoscale architecture as a master regulator of calcium carbonate crystallization in marine microalgae
Authors: Kadan Yuval , Tollervey Fergus , Varsano Neta , Mahamid Julia , Gal Assaf
Published: November 2021

Significance

Some organisms evolved an extraordinary ability to control the formation of inorganic crystals. This is usually attributed to the localization of biomineralization processes to specialized and controlled cellular environments. However, traditional techniques are incompatible with investigations of precipitation reactions in vivo, and the structural determinants of these processes remain elusive. Here, we use state-of-the-art cryoelectron tomography to visualize with nanometer-scale resolution calcite formation by microalgae. The native-state structural data open a window into the microenvironment in which crystals form in vivo and shed light on the biological controls over the chemical precipitation process. These rapidly developing cryoelectron microscopy modalities hold promise to elucidate diverse phenomena at the interface between cells and their environment.