bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidation of fish oil exacerbates alcoholic liver disease by enhancing intestinal dysbiosis in mice
Authors: Feng Ruibing , Ma Li-Juan , Wang Meng , Liu Conghui , Yang Rujie , Su Huanxing , Yang Yan , Wan Jian-Bo
Published: September 2020

The role of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) has been controversial. N-3 PUFA oxidation in animal feeding stuffs was rarely concerned, likely contributing to inconsistent outcomes. Here, we report the impacts of oxidized fish oil (OFO) on ALD in C57BL/6 mice. Alcohol exposure increased plasma aminotransferase levels and hepatic inflammation. These deleterious effects were ameliorated by unoxidized FO but exacerbated by OFO. Sequencing analysis showed the accentuated intestinal dysbiosis and the increased proportion of Proteobacteria in OFO-fed mice. Intestinal sterilization by antibiotics completely abolished OFO-aggravated liver injury. Additionally, alcohol exposure leads to the greater increase in plasma endotoxin and decrease in intestinal tight junction protein expressions in OFO-fed mice. Stabilization of intestinal barrier by obeticholic acid markedly blunted OFO-aggravated liver injury in alcohol-fed mice. These results demonstrate that OFO exacerbates alcoholic liver injury through enhancing intestinal dysbiosis, barrier dysfunction, and hepatic inflammation mediated by gut-derived endotoxin.
Long-range nonspreading propagation of sound beam through periodic layered structure
Authors: Zubov Yurii , Djafari-Rouhani Bahram , Jin Yuqi , Sofield Mathew , Walker Ezekiel , Neogi Arup , Krokhin Arkadii
Published: September 2020

Linear spreading of a wave packet or a Gaussian beam is a fundamental effect known in evolution of quantum state and propagation of optical/acoustic beams. The rate of spreading is determined by the diffraction coefficient D which is proportional to the curvature of the isofrequency surface. Here, we analyzed dispersion of sound in a solid-fluid layered structure and found a flex point on the isofrequency curve where D vanishes for given direction of propagation and frequency. Nonspreading propagation is experimentally observed in a water steel lattice of 75 periods (~1 meter long) and occurs in the regime of anomalous dispersion and strong acoustic anisotropy when the effective mass along periodicity is close to zero. Under these conditions the incoming beam experiences negative refraction of phase velocity leading to backward wave propagation. The observed effect is explained using a complete set of dynamical equations and our effective medium theory.
TiO2-Supported catalysts with ZnO and ZrO2 for non-oxidative dehydrogenation of propane: mechanistic analysis and application potential
Authors: Han Shanlei , Zhao Dan , Lund Henrik , Rockstroh Nils , Bartling Stephan , Doronkin Dmitry E. , Grunwaldt Jan-Dierk , Gao Manglai , Jiang Guiyuan , Kondratenko Evgenii V.
Published: September 2020

Non-oxidative dehydrogenation of propane is one of the most promising technologies for propene production in terms of environmental impact and sustainability.
Dynamic porous coordination polymers built-up from flexible 4,4′-dithiodibenzoate and rigid N-based ligands
Authors: Jarrah Najmeh , Troyano Javier , Carné-Sánchez Arnau , Imaz Inhar , Tangestaninejad Shahram , Moghadam Majid , Maspoch Daniel
Published: September 2020

Herein we report the design, synthesis, structural characterisation and functional testing of a series of Cu(ii) coordination polymers containing flexible 4,4′-dithiodibenzoate ligand (4,4′-DTBA), with or without auxiliary N-donor ligands.
Luminescence behaviour of Au(i)–Cu(i) heterobimetallic coordination polymers based on alkynyl-tris(2-pyridyl)phosphine Au(i) complexes
Authors: Petrovskii Stanislav K. , Paderina Aleksandra V. , Sizova Anastasia A. , Baranov Andrey Yu. , Artem'ev Alexander A. , Sizov Vladimir V. , Grachova Elena V.
Published: September 2020

Heterobimetallic coordination polymers based on alkynyl-tris(2-pyridyl)phosphine Au(i) complexes and Cu(i) demonstrate intriguing intramolecular energy transfer.
Effects of EGCG on depression-related behavior and serotonin concentration in a rat model of chronic unpredictable mild stress
Authors: Li Guangjian , Yang Jing , Wang Xu , Zhou Chen , Zheng Xiangyu , Lin Weihong
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study is to examine the antidepressant-like effect of EGCG and get deeper insights into implications of modulating serotonin (5-HT) in the colon and brain.
Texturized mung bean protein as a sustainable food source: techno-functionality, anti-nutrient properties, in vivo protein quality and toxicity
Authors: Brishti Fatema Hossain , Chay Shyan Yea , Muhammad Kharidah , Rashedi Ismail-Fitry Mohammad , Zarei Mohammad , Saari Nazamid
Published: September 2020

Mung bean is an underutilized yet sustainable protein source. The current work elucidates the pilot-scale production of mung bean protein isolate and reveals good in vivo protein quality which secures TMBP's potential as a protein meal replacement and dietary supplement.
Interfaces in rechargeable magnesium batteries
Authors: Shi Jiayan , Zhang Jian , Guo Juchen , Lu Jun
Published: September 2020

The interfacial reactions and processes in rechargeable magnesium batteries are discussed in this minireview.
Crosstalk of gut microbiota and serum/hippocampus metabolites in neurobehavioral impairments induced by zinc oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Jianjun , Zhang Shanshan , Chen Chang , Jiang Xuejun , Qiu Jingfu , Qiu Yu , Zhang Yujia , Wang Tianxiong , Qin Xia , Zou Zhen , Chen Chengzhi
Published: September 2020

Crosstalk of gut microbiota and metabolites in zinc oxide nanoparticle-induced neurobehavioral impairments.
TMSOTf-catalyzed synthesis of substituted quinazolines using hexamethyldisilazane as a nitrogen source under neat and microwave irradiation conditions
Authors: Chan Chieh-Kai , Lai Chien-Yu , Wang Cheng-Chung
Published: September 2020

An efficient synthetic route for the synthesis of substituted quinazolines under neat, metal-free and microwave irradiation conditions has been developed by using TMSOTf as an acid catalyst and HMDS as a nitrogen source.
PISA: construction of self-organized and self-assembled functional vesicular structures
Authors: Pearce Samuel , Perez-Mercader Juan
Published: September 2020

PISA reaction networks alone, integrated with other networks, or designing properties into the amphiphiles confer functionalities to the supramolecular assemblies.
A one-pot, solvent-free, and controlled synthetic route for thermoresponsive hyperbranched polyurethanes
Authors: Polo Fonseca Lucas , Zanata Daniela de Morais , Gauche Cony , Felisberti Maria Isabel
Published: September 2020

Hyperbranched polyurethanes (HPUs) are known for their multifunctionality and versatile properties.
Engineering well-defined rare earth oxide-based nanostructures for catalyzing C1 chemical reactions
Authors: Yuan Kun , Zhang Ya-Wen
Published: September 2020

In this review, we summarize the nanostructural engineering and applications of rare earth oxide-based nanomaterials with well-defined compositions, crystal phases and shapes for efficiently catalyzing C1 chemical reactions.
Oxidation states of gallium (infrequentiand commoniii) tunableviamedium-sized C60and small-sized C28fullerenes
Authors: Zhao Yao-Xiao , Yuan Kun , Li Meng-Yang , Zhao Xiang
Published: September 2020

Differently sized fullerenes are shown to be flexible tools for tuning the oxidation states of gallium, and a fluoridation strategy facilitates the further stabilization of Ga@Ih(1812)-C60.
Phase stabilization of red-emitting olivine-type NaMgPO4:Eu2+phosphorsviamolten-phase quenching
Authors: Hasegawa Takuya , Iwaki Masato , Tanaka Ryo , Kim Sun-Woog , Yin Shu , Toda Kenji
Published: September 2020

Eu2+-activated red-emitting olivine-type NaMgPO4:Eu2+phosphor was successfully synthesized by a rapid quenching process, and its luminescence properties were investigated in detail.
Tandem microfluidic chip isolation of prostate and breast cancer cells from simulated liquid biopsies using CD71 as an affinity ligand
Authors: Wickramaratne Bhagya , Pappas Dimitri
Published: September 2020

The use of blood as a liquid biopsy provides a minimally invasive and less traumatic approach for initial cancer screens as well as patient monitoring.
Proton–deuterium exchange of acetone catalyzed in imidazolium-based ionic liquid–D2O mixtures
Authors: Shahkhatuni Astghik A. , Shahkhatuni Aleksan G. , Mamyan Suren S. , Ananikov Valentine P. , Harutyunyan Arpine S.
Published: September 2020

The reaction of the proton–deuterium exchange of acetone in imidazolium-based ionic liquid (IL)–deuterium oxide mixtures was studied in detail via NMR spectroscopy.
Two-dimensional silicon bismotide (SiBi) monolayer with a honeycomb-like lattice: first-principles study of tuning the electronic properties
Authors: Bafekry Asadollah , Shojaei Fazel , Obeid Mohammed M. , Ghergherehchi Mitra , Nguyen C. , Oskouian Mohammad
Published: September 2020

The modulation of the electronic properties of SiBi monolayer via external means, including layer thickness, electric field and mechanical strain are explored with DFT method.
Three-dimensional hierarchical ZnCo2O4@C3N4-B nanoflowers as high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Xiao Haihong , Ma Guoqing , Tan Junyu , Ru Shuai , Ai Zhaoquan , Wang Caixia
Published: September 2020

ZnCo2O4 has become one of the most widely used anode materials due to its good specific capacity, cost-efficiency, high thermal stability and environmental benignity.
One-pot construction of carbohydrate scaffolds mediated by metal catalysts
Authors: Mukherjee Mana Mohan , Maity Sajal Kumar , Ghosh Rina
Published: September 2020

Reports on metal-catalysed one-pot (domino/cascade/tandem/multi-component or sequential) reactions on carbohydrate scaffolds have been reviewed.
Thermodynamically stable vesicle formation of biodegradable double mPEG-tailed amphiphiles with sulfonate head group
Authors: Ghosh Rita , Dey Joykrishna , Kumar B. V. N. Phani
Published: September 2020

Spontaneous vesicle formation by biodegradable novel double mPEG-tailed amphiphiles.
Chemical grafting of cholesterol on monomer and PDMMLA polymers, a step towards the development of new polymers for biomedical applications
Authors: Gholizadeh Elnaz , Belibel Rima , Bachelart Thomas , Bounadji Chérifa , Barbaud Christel
Published: September 2020

PDMMLAs are synthetic biopolyesters synthesized from tri-substituted β-lactones with available hydroxyl groups. We grafted cholesterol on both monomer and polymers following the Steglich esterification protocol.
Regio- and stereoselective intermolecular carbolithiation reactions
Authors: Marsico G. , Scafato P. , Belviso S. , Superchi S.
Published: September 2020

Carbolithiation of alkenes provides a powerful tool for the construction of up to two novel carbon–carbon or carbon–heteroatoms bonds in a regio- and stereo-controlled manner. The synthetic potentiality of this reaction is highlighted.
Preparation, characterization, antioxidant and antiglycation activities of selenized polysaccharides from blackcurrant
Authors: Wu Changzong , Zhao Meimei , Bu Xueying , Qing Ziya , Wang Libo , Xu Yaqin , Yang Yu , Bai Jingwen
Published: September 2020

An ultrasound-assisted enzymatic method was used to extract the polysaccharides from blackcurrant fruits (BP), and then a nitric acid-sodium selenite method was employed to prepare twelve kinds of selenized blackcurrant polysaccharides (SBPs).
Simplified waste-free process for synthesis of nanoporous compact alumina under technologically advantageous conditions
Authors: Fedoročková Alena , Sučik Gabriel , Plešingerová Beatrice , Popovič Ľuboš , Kovaľaková Mária , Vavra Martin
Published: September 2020

Flow chart of the proposed process for production of nanoporous alumina monoliths.
Carbon material-supported Fe7C3@FeO nanoparticles: a highly efficient catalyst for carbon dioxide reduction with 1-butene
Authors: Yan Bing , Wang Luyi , Wang Bolong , Chen Quanxin , Liu Chunjing , Li Jian , Jiang Tao
Published: September 2020

Highly dispersed Fe7C3@FeO supported on AC was synthesized and demonstrated as an excellent catalyst for carbon dioxide reduction with 1-butene.
Exploiting radical-pair intersystem crossing for maximizing singlet oxygen quantum yields in pure organic fluorescent photosensitizers
Authors: Wang Xuanhang , Song Yucong , Pan Guocui , Han Wenkun , Wang Boyu , Cui Li , Ma Huili , An Zhongfu , Xie Zhigang , Xu Bin , Tian Wenjing
Published: September 2020

Maximizing singlet oxygen quantum yields of a fluorescent photosensitizer for realizing approximately 100% utilization of excitons by precisely controlling the molecular symmetry.
Electrochemical oxidative decarboxylation and 1,2-aryl migration towards the synthesis of 1,2-diaryl ethers
Authors: Bu Faxiang , Lu Lijun , Hu Xia , Wang Shengchun , Zhang Heng , Lei Aiwen
Published: September 2020

Carboxylic acid compounds are important chemicals and are widely present in various natural products. The conversion of carboxylic acids into valuable compounds is a promising field.
Access to P-chiral sec- and tert-phosphine oxides enabled by Le-Phos-catalyzed asymmetric kinetic resolution
Authors: Qiu Haile , Dai Qiang , He Jiafeng , Li Wenbo , Zhang Junliang
Published: September 2020

Herein we report an efficient kinetic resolution of secondary phosphine oxides via a Le-Phos-catalyzed asymmetric allylation reaction with Morita–Baylis–Hillman carbonates.
Soft matter science and the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Poon Wilson C. K. , Brown Aidan T. , Direito Susana O. L. , Hodgson Daniel J. M. , Le Nagard Lucas , Lips Alex , MacPhee Cait E. , Marenduzzo Davide , Royer John R. , Silva Andreia F. , Thijssen Job H. J. , Titmuss Simon
Published: September 2020

Much of the science underpinning the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic lies in the soft matter domain.
Stability of a directional Marangoni flow
Authors: Tregouet Corentin , Saint-Jalmes Arnaud
Published: September 2020

When a Marangoni flow of soluble surfactants is confined laterally, the flow forms an inertial surface jet which shows meander instabilities. The morphology and the destabilization of this surface jet are analyzed experimentally and theoretically.
Novel laser-assisted glass frit encapsulation for long-lifetime perovskite solar cells
Authors: Martins Jorge , Emami Seyedali , Madureira Rúben , Mendes Joaquim , Ivanou Dzmitry , Mendes Adélio
Published: September 2020

A cutting-edge laser encapsulation method was developed and used to hermetically seal conventional n–i–p perovskite solar cells.
Conversion of CO2 to chemical feedstocks over bismuth nanosheets in situ grown on nitrogen-doped carbon
Authors: Wang Xin , Yin Wen-Jin , Si Yubing , Wang Xiaoming , Guo Xiaoxiao , Guo Wei , Fu Yongzhu
Published: September 2020

The conversion of CO2 to value-added chemicals represents an attractive approach for CO2 utilization.
Superhydrophobic bowl-like SERS substrates patterned from CMOS sensors for extracellular vesicle characterization
Authors: Suarasan Sorina , Liu Juanjuan , Imanbekova Meruyert , Rojalin Tatu , Hilt Silvia , Voss John C. , Wachsmann-Hogiu Sebastian
Published: September 2020

Using a regular CMOS sensor as a template, we are able to fabricate a simple but highly effective superhydrophobic SERS substrate.
An enzyme-responsive and photoactivatable carbon-monoxide releasing molecule for bacterial infection theranostics
Authors: Wang Xianghong , Chen Xin , Song Lingjie , Zhou Rongtao , Luan Shifang
Published: September 2020

A lipase-sensitive and photoactivatable carbon-monoxide releasing molecule for successive detection and elimination of bacterial infection.
Doping engineering of the flexible polyaniline electrochromic material through H2SO4–HClO4 multiple acids for the radiation regulation in snow environment
Authors: Xu Gaoping , Zhang Leipeng , Wang Bo , Ren Zichen , Chen Xi , Dou Shuliang , Ren Feifei , Wei Hang , Li Xiaobai , Li Yao
Published: September 2020

Optical and thermal regulation of the device under different voltages.
Soft ionic liquid based resistive memory characteristics in a two terminal discrete polydimethylsiloxane cylindrical microchannel
Authors: Khan Muhammad Umair , Hassan Gul , Bae Jinho
Published: September 2020

This paper proposes a novel soft ionic liquid (IL) electrically functional device that displays resistive memory characteristics using poly(acrylic acid) partial sodium salt (PAA-Na+:H2O) solution gel and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in a thin polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) cylindrical microchannel.
Approach for prediction of cold loads considering electric vehicles during power system restoration
Authors: Hashemian Seyed Mehran , Khodabakhshian Amin , Gholipour Mehdi , Esmaili Mohammad Reza , Malekpour Mostafa
Published: September 2020

During the power system restoration there is a high possibility that the load demand is greater than the normal system operation for thermostatic loads. This demand increment, called Cold Load Pick‐up (CLPU) has been a critical concern to utilities and will slow down the restoration process. Thus, it is imperative to predict the CLPU demand to perform restoration process more precisely. The use of new loads such as electric vehicles (EVs) has made new problems. In this paper, first the negative impact of EVs after an outage, on CLPU demand is investigated and then it is shown that the behavior of EVs during restoration service is the same as CLPU phenomenon. In doing so, the proposed approach uses Monte Carlo simulation method to predict EVs recharging demand. Since there will be some other new loads in the future that may have CLPU performance, a new approach is proposed to predict the CLPU demand of any load, without the need to have its exact model. ANFIS method is used to estimate CLPU demand based on previous outage cases in the feeder. The proposed approach is implemented in MATLAB® and simulation results confirm its ability in load prediction for restoration service.
Efficient estimation of EMI from stacked radiation sources by combining their spherical wave expansion coefficients
Authors: Olivieri Carlo , de Paulis Francesco , Orlandi Antonio , Centola Federico , Sizikov Gregory
Published: September 2020

The objective of this study is the development of an efficient methodology, based on the spherical wave expansion theory, to evaluate the total unwanted electromagnetic radiation of multiple radiation sources starting from the knowledge of the radiation characteristic of every single source considered as isolated. The specific application domain deals with the estimation of the electromagnetic interference from stacked trays in server racks. After having computed the radiation of each isolated tray, by using the spherical expansion technique the proper expansion coefficients are calculated. They are combined in a set of new coefficients that are used to reconstruct the estimated total field from the server rack. This study discusses the proposed methodology step by step and offers practical considerations on its implementation when measured data are given as input. The adopted numerical examples show in a quantitative way, through different graphs and comparisons, the limits and the advantages of the technique. The proposed method has been shown to reliably predict the radiation from stacked trays with only a few dB of uncertainty. The examples are based on numerically computed data sets of electromagnetic emissions from trays and racks but the proposed procedure is valid also for measured data.
Ultraminiaturised Polarisation Selective Surface (PSS) for dual‐band Wi‐Fi and WLAN shielding applications
Authors: Farooq Umer , Iftikhar Adnan , Shafique Muhammad Farhan , Babar Abbasi Muhammad Ali , Clendinning Sarah , Fida Adnan , Mughal Muhammad Junaid , Khan Muhammad Saeed
Published: September 2020

This study reports on a highly miniaturised polarisation selective surface (PSS) for dual‐band Wi‐Fi and WLAN applications. The proposed unit cell consists of two independently tuneable square loops. The outer loop is split with a gap of 0.2 mm to introduce polarisation selectivity and miniaturisation for lower‐frequency band of 2.5 GHz. The inner square loop is inductively loaded with arms to suppress 5.45 GHz frequency band. These configurations have resulted in a unit element size of at 2.5 GHz, which is not presented before to the best of the authors' knowledge. A wide rejection bandwidth () of more than 600 and 1180 MHz is obtained around 2.5 and 5.45 GHz, respectively. Furthermore, the proposed PSS exhibits an excellent polarisation selective characteristic by generating two stopbands at 2.5 and 5.45 GHz when illuminated by horizontal (TM) incident waves, whereas vertically (TE) polarised incident waves result in the generation of passbands for these two frequencies. Numerical validation through equivalent circuit modelling of the proposed PSS has also been carried out. A finite prototype containing elements is fabricated and tested. The measured results demonstrated that the PSS has excellent potential for applications that employ polarisation separators and wave generators.
Optical spectroscopic observations of low-energy counterparts of Fermi-LAT γ-ray sources
Authors: Peña-Herazo H. A. , Amaya-Almazán R. A. , Massaro F. , de Menezes R. , Marchesini E. J. , Chavushyan V. , Paggi A. , Landoni M. , Masetti N. , Ricci F. , D’Abrusco R. , Cheung C. C. , La Franca F. , Smith H. A. , Milisavljevic D. , Jiménez-Bailón E. , Patiño-Álvarez V. M. , Tosti G.
Published: September 2020

Context. A significant fraction of all γ-ray sources detected by the Large Area Telescope aboard the Fermi satellite is still lacking a low-energy counterpart. In addition, there is still a large population of γ-ray sources with associated low-energy counterparts that lack firm classifications. In the last 10 years we have undertaken an optical spectroscopic campaign to address the problem of unassociated or unidentified γ-ray sources (UGSs), mainly devoted to observing blazars and blazar candidates because they are the largest population of γ-ray sources associated to date.

Aims. Here we describe the overall impact of our optical spectroscopic campaign on sources associated in Fermi-LAT catalogs, coupled with objects found in the literature. In the literature search we kept track of efforts by different teams that presented optical spectra of counterparts or potential counterparts of Fermi-LAT catalog sources. Our summary includes an analysis of additional 30 newly collected optical spectra of counterparts or potential counterparts of Fermi-LAT sources of a previously unknown nature.

Methods. New spectra were acquired at the Blanco 4 m and OAN-SPM 2.1 m telescopes, and those available in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (data release 15) archive.

Results. All new sources with optical spectra analyzed here are classified as blazars. Thanks to our campaign, altogether we discovered and classified 394 targets with an additional 123 objects collected from a literature search. We began our optical spectroscopic campaign between the release of the second and third Fermi-LAT source catalogs (2FGL and 3FGL, respectively), classified about 25% of the sources that had uncertain nature and discovered a blazar-like potential counterpart for ∼10% of UGSs listed therein. In the 4FGL catalog, about 350 Fermi-LAT sources have been classified to date thanks to our campaign.

Conclusions. The most elusive class of blazars are found to be BL Lacs since the largest fraction of Fermi-LAT sources targeted in our observations showed a featureless optical spectrum. The same conclusion applied to the literature spectra. Finally, we confirm the high reliability of mid-IR color-based methods to select blazar-like candidate counterparts of unassociated or unidentified γ-ray sources.
ALMA observations of transient heating in a solar active region
Authors: da Silva Santos J. M. , de la Cruz Rodríguez J. , White S. M. , Leenaarts J. , Vissers G. J. M. , Hansteen V. H.
Published: September 2020

Aims. We aim to investigate the temperature enhancements and formation heights of solar active-region brightenings such as Ellerman bombs (EBs), ultraviolet bursts (UVBs), and flaring active-region fibrils (FAFs) using interferometric observations in the millimeter (mm) continuum provided by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA).

Methods. We examined 3 mm signatures of heating events identified in Solar Dynamics Observatory observations of an active region and compared the results with synthetic spectra from a 3D radiative magnetohydrodynamic simulation. We estimated the contribution from the corona to the mm brightness using differential emission measure analysis.

Results. We report the null detection of EBs in the 3 mm continuum at ∼1.2″ spatial resolution, which is evidence that they are sub-canopy events that do not significantly contribute to heating the upper chromosphere. In contrast, we find the active region to be populated with multiple compact, bright, flickering mm-bursts – reminiscent of UVBs. The high brightness temperatures of up to ∼14 200 K in some events have a contribution (up to ∼7%) from the corona. We also detect FAF-like events in the 3 mm continuum. These events show rapid motions of > 10 kK plasma launched with high plane-of-sky velocities (37 − 340 km s−1) from bright kernels. The mm FAFs are the brightest class of warm canopy fibrils that connect magnetic regions of opposite polarities. The simulation confirms that ALMA should be able to detect the mm counterparts of UVBs and small flares and thus provide a complementary diagnostic for localized heating in the solar chromosphere.
Distance spectral radius of series-reduced trees with parameters
Authors: Deng Yuyuan , Li Dangui , Lin Hongying , Zhou Bo
Published: September 2020

For a connected graph G, the distance matrix is a real-symmetric matrix where the (u, v)-entry is the distance between vertex u and vertex v in G. The distance spectral radius of G is the largest eigenvalue of the distance matrix of G. A series-reduced tree is a tree with at least one internal vertex and all internal vertices having degree at least three. Those series-reduced trees that maximize the distance spectral radius are determined over all series-reduced trees with fixed order and maximum degree and over all series-reduced trees with fixed order and number of leaves, respectively.
Comparison of Chest Ultrasound and Standard X-Ray Imaging in COVID-19
Patients
Authors: Shumilov Evgenii , Hosseini Ali Seif Amir , Petzold Golo , Treiber Hannes , Lotz Joachim , Ellenrieder Volker , Kunsch Steffen , Neesse Albrecht
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic poses new challenges for the medical
community due to its large number of patients presenting with varying
symptoms. Chest ultrasound (ChUS) may be particularly useful in the early
clinical management in suspected COVID-19 patients due to its broad
availability and rapid application. We aimed to investigate patterns of ChUS
in COVID-19 patients and compare the findings with results from chest X-ray
(CRX).

24 patients (18 symptomatic, 6 asymptomatic)
with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 by polymerase chain reaction underwent bedside
ChUS in addition to CRX following admission. Subsequently, the results of
ChUS and CRX were compared.

94% (n=17/18) of patients with
respiratory symptoms demonstrated lung abnormalities on ChUS. ChUS was
especially useful to detect interstitial syndrome compared to CXR in
COVID-19 patients (17/18 vs. 11/18; p<0.02). Of
note, ChUS also detected lung consolidations very effectively (14/18
for ChUS vs. 7/18 cases for CXR; p<0.02). Besides
pathological B-lines and subpleural consolidations, pleural line abnormality
(89%; n=16/18) was the third most common feature in
patients with respiratory manifestations of COVID-19 detected by ChUS.

Our findings support the high value of ChUS in the
management of COVID-19 patients.
Eine nicht „ganz normale“ Reanimation bei Kammerflimmern – Wachheit während der Wiederbelebung
Authors: Czerwonka Holger , Sroka Michael
Published: September 2020

Während einer Reanimation bei Kammerflimmern wurde „Wachheit unter CPR“ beobachtet. Dies führte in der Folge zu einer kritischen Auseinandersetzung und der ethischen Fragestellung, ob eine Sedierung während der Reanimation zum ärztlichen Selbstverständnis gehören müsste, um traumatische Erinnerungen auszuschließen. Im vorliegenden Fall konnte ein junger Reisender am Frankfurter Flughafen erfolgreich wiederbelebt werden und ohne Residuen und Erinnerungen an „seine Reanimation“ nach 11 Tagen die Heimreise antreten.
Trastuzumab Biosimilars in the Therapy of Breast Cancer – “Real World” Experiences from four Bavarian University Breast Centres
Authors: Hester Anna , Gaß Paul , Fasching Peter A. , Krämer Anne Katrin , Ettl Johannes , Diessner Joachim , Wöckel Achim , Egger Tobias , Stock Katja , Redlin Jutta , Andraschko Monika , Harbeck Nadia , Würstlein Rachel
Published: September 2020

Introduction With the introduction of the first trastuzumab biosimilar in the summer of 2018, biosimilar antibodies for breast cancer have found their way into the area of gynaecological oncology. The switch of anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) therapy from the reference drug Herceptin® to a biosimilar has presented challenges to the clinics. In addition to structural and organisational measures, training of employees as well as patient briefing and acceptance were major challenges. The study presented here records – within the context of quality assurance – how the switch to a trastuzumab biosimilar was implemented at four Bavarian university clinics in the Purchasing Association of Bavarian University Pharmacies.

Materials/Methods Questionnaires on treatment figures and the switching process were sent to breast centres and pharmacies of four Bavarian university clinics between July and December 2019. The neoadjuvant, adjuvant and metastasised anti-HER2 therapy with trastuzumab with or without pertuzumab was recorded, evaluated and summarised.

Results In the anti-HER2-therapy, trastuzumab was used intravenously (i. v.) and subcutaneously. Between July and December 2018, all four clinics in the Purchasing Association switched the i. v. trastuzumab therapy from the reference drug (Herceptin) to a biosimilar (for 2018: Kanjinti®). Over 200 patients were treated with trastuzumab i. v. in each of the two half-years of 2018 (before and after the switch). The spectrum of side effects and pCR rates under therapy with the biosimilar were comparable to the experiences made with the reference drug. Three out of four clinics provided training to employees and informed patients by means of a defined information leaflet. Patient acceptance was high.

Summary The anti-HER2 therapy could be switched successfully and safely to trastuzumab biosimilars at the Bavarian university hospitals. This may serve as guideline for the further implementation of biosimilars. The structures necessary for this initial switching process have been prepared with trastuzumab as an example.
Important Aspects of Human Behavior in Road Traffic Accidents
Authors: Lakhan Ram , Pal Ranabir , Baluja Arushi , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael , Agrawal Amit
Published: September 2020

Worldwide road traffic accidents have been increasing. Human behaviors and environmental factors are often responsible for such events. This being a serious public health concern, public health interventions are needed to minimize the rate of road traffic accidents. We aimed to identify broader human behaviors, sociodemographic factors, and environmental factors associated with the risk of road traffic accidents. We searched for the relevant studies in electronic database including PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and World Health Organization global health library. In addition, a manual search was also performed. Findings from scientific literature were presented in a summative form. Young age, male gender, speed, influence of substance, use of mobile phone, driving experience, temperament, attitude, aggression, stress, anxiety, emotionality, fatigue, lack of sleep, and road conditions were found closely associated with a risk of road traffic accidents. Despite having substantial driving training and ability to handling motor vehicles, professional drivers such as bus and taxi drivers are very vulnerable to road traffic accidents. This study reports that the increasing prevalence of road traffic accidents can be addressed significantly by applying behavior change theories. The health belief model was found useful in promoting safer driving.
Implementation of a Postpartum Hemorrhage Safety Bundle at an Urban Safety-Net Hospital
Authors: Joseph Naima T. , Worrell Nikkia H. , Collins Janice , Schmidt Melanie , Sobers Grace , Hutchins Kathlyn , Chahine E. Britton , Faya Christine , Lewis Luanne , Green Victoria L. , Castellano Penny Z. , Lindsay Michael K.
Published: September 2020

Background Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a leading cause of preventable maternal morbidity and mortality. Standardized response to obstetric hemorrhage is associated with significant improvement in maternal outcomes, yet implementation can be challenging.

Objective The primary objective is to describe the methodology for program implementation of the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health Safety Bundle on PPH at an urban safety-net hospital.

Methods Over an 18-month period, interventions geared toward (1) risk assessment and stratification, (2) hemorrhage identification and management, (3) team communication and simulation, and (4) debriefs and case review were implemented. Hemorrhage risk assessment stratification rates were tracked overtime as an early measure of bundle compliance.

Results Hemorrhage risk assessment stratification rates improved to >90% during bundle implementation.

Conclusion Keys to implementation included multidisciplinary stakeholder commitment, stepwise and iterative approach, and parallel systems for monitoring and evaluation Implementation of a PPH safety bundle is feasible in a resource-constrained setting.
Initial Outcomes of a Novel High-Visibility Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Technique
Authors: Liu Bo , Wu Feiran
Published: September 2020

Background A large variety of endoscopic carpal tunnel release methods have been described in efforts to shorten recovery time, reduce scar discomfort, and allow earlier return to work. The majority of existing techniques are the modifications of the Agee, Chow, and Menon techniques, all of which require dedicated equipment that can increase facility and surgical fees for the patient and institution. We present a novel high-visibility endoscopic carpal tunnel release technique that uses common hand surgery instruments available in all surgical units, without requiring disposable or custom devices.

Description of Technique The cases were performed under local anesthesia using routine reusable instruments and a conventional 2.5-mm 30-degree small joint arthroscope. Following proximal dissection, a clear, colorless, plastic shield was created from a standard syringe that offered a 360-degree vision of the carpal tunnel and protection of the median nerve. Release of the transverse carpal ligament was performed under full arthroscopic vision using Metzenbaum dissection scissors.

Methods This pilot study analyses the first nine cases in eight patients who were operated on using this technique, with a minimum of 6 months of follow-up.

Results No peri- or postoperative complications were encountered. All patients demonstrated significant improvements in the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire score, and a visual analog score for pain.

Conclusion The high-visibility endoscopic carpal tunnel release technique is safe and effective, and offers a viable cost-reducing alternative to the existing endoscopic methods for carpal tunnel syndrome. Future comparative trials are required to validate these findings in a larger series.

Level of Evidence This is a Level IV study.
Implementation of Artificial Intelligence-Based Clinical Decision Support to Reduce Hospital Readmissions at a Regional Hospital
Authors: Romero-Brufau Santiago , Wyatt Kirk D. , Boyum Patricia , Mickelson Mindy , Moore Matthew , Cognetta-Rieke Cheristi
Published: September 2020

Background Hospital readmissions are a key quality metric, which has been tied to reimbursement. One strategy to reduce readmissions is to direct resources to patients at the highest risk of readmission. This strategy necessitates a robust predictive model coupled with effective, patient-centered interventions.

Objective The aim of this study was to reduce unplanned hospital readmissions through the use of artificial intelligence-based clinical decision support.

Methods A commercially vended artificial intelligence tool was implemented at a regional hospital in La Crosse, Wisconsin between November 2018 and April 2019. The tool assessed all patients admitted to general care units for risk of readmission and generated recommendations for interventions intended to decrease readmission risk. Similar hospitals were used as controls. Change in readmission rate was assessed by comparing the 6-month intervention period to the same months of the previous calendar year in exposure and control hospitals.

Results Among 2,460 hospitalizations assessed using the tool, 611 were designated by the tool as high risk. Sensitivity and specificity for risk assignment were 65% and 89%, respectively. Over 6 months following implementation, readmission rates decreased from 11.4% during the comparison period to 8.1% (p < 0.001). After accounting for the 0.5% decrease in readmission rates (from 9.3 to 8.8%) at control hospitals, the relative reduction in readmission rate was 25% (p < 0.001). Among patients designated as high risk, the number needed to treat to avoid one readmission was 11.

Conclusion We observed a decrease in hospital readmission after implementing artificial intelligence-based clinical decision support. Our experience suggests that use of artificial intelligence to identify patients at the highest risk for readmission can reduce quality gaps when coupled with patient-centered interventions.
Acute Viral Bronchiolitis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Angurana Suresh K. , Williams Vijai , Takia Lalit
Published: September 2020

Acute viral bronchiolitis (AVB) is the leading cause of hospital admissions among infants in developed and developing countries and associated with increased morbidity and cost of treatment. This review was performed to guide the clinicians managing AVB in light of evidence accumulated in the last decade. We searched published English literature in last decade regarding etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of AVB using PubMed and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Respiratory syncytial virus is the most common causative agent. The diagnosis is mainly clinical with limited role of diagnostic investigations and chest radiographs are not routinely indicated. The management of AVB remains a challenge, as the role of various interventions is not clear. Supportive care in form of provision of heated and humidified oxygen and maintaining hydration are main interventions. The use of pulse oximetry helps to guide the administration of oxygen. Trials and systematic reviews evaluated various interventions like nebulized adrenaline, bronchodilators and hypertonic saline, corticosteroids, different modes of noninvasive ventilation (high-flow nasal cannula [HFNC], continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP], and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation [NPPV]), surfactant, heliox, chest physiotherapy, and antiviral drugs. The interventions which showed some benefits in infants and children with AVB are adrenaline and hypertonic saline nebulization, HFNC, CPAP, NIV, and surfactant. The routine administration of antibiotics, bronchodilators, corticosteroids, steam inhalation, chest physiotherapy, heliox, and antiviral drugs are not recommended.
Vitamin D Status of Epileptic Children in India: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study from a Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Azad Chandrika , Guglani Vishal , Kaur Jasbinder , Aulakh Roosy , Singh Sukhvinder , Banga Sumiti
Published: September 2020

Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent all over the world, especially in tropical countries. In epileptics, antiepileptic drugs (AED) and associated comorbidities further impact vitamin D status. The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of 25(OH) vitamin D deficiency in epileptic children and evaluate probable risk factors. A cross-sectional study of 200 children between 1 and 18 years of age on AED was undertaken in the pediatric neurology clinic of a tertiary care center of Northern India. In all children, serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase were estimated. The deficiency levels of vitamin D were categorized as: deficiency <20 ng/mL, insufficiency 20 to 30 ng/mL, and sufficiency >30 ng/mL. The potential risk factors for hypovitaminosis D, including type of epilepsy, AED regimen (specific medications, polytherapy vs. monotherapy), cerebral palsy, ambulatory status, intellectual disability, body mass index, gender, and vegetarianism were examined. Among the 200 enrolled children (60% boys), 106/200 (53%) were vitamin D deficient. There was no significant relation of vitamin D levels with gender, type of epilepsy, neurological deficit, and type of AED. An inverse relationship of higher phenytoin doses during monotherapy associated with lower vitamin D levels in monotherapy was found, thereby suggesting adverse effect of high doses of phenytoin on vitamin D levels. VDD is common among epileptic children on AED therapy. Vitamin D deficiency is common prevalent among epileptic children on AED therapy, and its detection and treatment correction should be an integral part of epilepsy management.
Neurological Manifestations of Novel Coronavirus Disease in a 2-Month-Old Infant: A Case Report
Authors: Kamali Aghdam Mojtaba , Bakhtiari Hassan , Diaz Diana Noemi , Eftekhari Kambiz
Published: September 2020

The main manifestations of novel coronavirus usually include fever and cough. Neurological manifestations have not been properly identified in children. A 65-day-old infant was hospitalized due to poor feeding, weakness, lethargy, and occasional cough. She suffered several seizures during her hospitalization. The brain computed tomography scan depicted a minor hemorrhage. Due to the exacerbation of her condition during hospital stay and the presence of respiratory symptoms in her parents, coronavirus disease was suspected. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of coronavirus was positive for both: child and parents. In children with neurological manifestations such as lethargy, recurrent seizures, cerebral hemorrhage, and clinical evidence of respiratory symptoms in his/her relatives, PCR testing for coronavirus is recommended.
A Hospital-Based Insight into the Antinuclear Antibody Patterns in Autoimmune Disorders
Authors: Gupta Prishni , Priya Ritu , Nanda Rachita , Patel Suprava , Mohapatra Eli
Published: September 2020

Background The incidence of autoimmune disorders has seen a rise in India in recent times. The symptoms and signs of these conditions are caused by a systemic autoimmune response, essentially characterized by the expression of the antinuclear antibodies (ANA). Presence of ANA in serum of patient could be the prime evidence of an autoimmune disorder.

Aim This study aimed to determine the antibody patterns and assess the clinical significance of ANA in patients of a teaching tertiary care hospital of central India.

Material and Methods This retrospective cross-sectional data analysis study retrieved 538 reports of individuals, who were prescribed the ANA test by indirect immunofluorescence assay over a period of 11 months, from the archives of the Department of Biochemistry. For continuous data, student t-test was used while Chi-square and Fisher exact was conducted for categorical data. A p value less than 0.05 were taken as significant.

Results Out of the 538 patients investigated for ANA testing by indirect immunofluorescence assay, 33% were positive, among which 74% were female, and majority belonged to the young adult age group. The most common pattern identified was nuclear, subpattern nuclear speckled.

Conclusion A high-ANA pattern positivity could be related to a high-autoimmunity prevalence in this region, and also promotes its use as a tool of evidence of suspected autoimmune disorders.
Analysis of Patterns of Adverse Transfusion Reactions and Management: A Novel Initiative toward Hemovigilance in a Teaching Hospital of South India
Authors: Krishnamurthy Anandraj Vaithy , Mathialagan Janani , Raghavan A.T.M. Venkat , Srinivasan Sowmya
Published: September 2020

Objective Blood transfusion being a major lifesaving frontline procedure in majority of clinical wards, has a high potential with risk for adverse events ranging in severity, thus warranting optimal usage of blood. Continuous monitoring of adverse transfusion reaction (ATR) and analysis of the reactions can promote better comprehension of various contributing risk factors. Hemovigilance being a quality indicator with data system assists in ensuring quality and safe blood transfusion. The present study was designed to analyze the incidence and nature of adverse transfusion-associated events reported to the blood bank from our teaching hospital located in the remote part of South-East Coastal region with emphasis on corrective and preventive actions.

Materials and Methods The prospective study included all the ATR reported to our hospital blood bank over a period of 42 months. The transfusion reactions report forms filled by the clinicians were analyzed and the reactions were categorized into patterns. The associated risk factors for the reaction are evaluated with substantial laboratory and clinical parameters in reference to hemovigilance.

Results Among 19,800 transfusions, 189 transfusion reactions were encountered with a ratio of 10:0.9 with age ranging from 12 to 80, with female preponderance. Reactions associated with whole blood (WB) transfusion were common (50%, p = 0.002) followed by packed red blood cells transfusion (PRBC) (1.4%, p = 0.006) and platelets (0.8%, p = 0.1). Febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reactions were predominant patterns noted in 122 cases followed by allergic reactions in 43 cases with more commonly associated PRBC transfusion whereas hemolytic reactions showed association with WB transfusion. No delayed reactions or mortalities were encountered.

Conclusion The present study concludes with novelty showing the overall incidence of transfusion-associated reactions in the study domain is slightly higher than more advanced centers in India owing to lack of leukodepletion units which could enable to substantially retard the incidence of adverse events of transfusion as a general measure and febrile reactions in particular. Hemovigilance and pattern analysis of ATR provide scope for corrective and preventive action and give referral guidelines to prevent future recurrence.