bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-Dimensional Mass Spectrometry Imaging Identifies Lipid Markers of Medulloblastoma Metastasis
Authors: Paine Martin R. L. , Liu Jingbo , Huang Danning , Ellis Shane R. , Trede Dennis , Kobarg Jan H. , Heeren Ron M. A. , Fernández Facundo M. , MacDonald Tobey J.
Published: February 2019

Treatment for medulloblastoma (MB) — the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor — includes prophylactic radiation administered to the entire brain and spine due to the high incidence of metastasis to the central nervous system. However, the majority of long-term survivors are left with permanent and debilitating neurocognitive impairments as a result of this therapy, while the remaining 30–40% of patients relapse with terminal metastatic disease. Development of more effective targeted therapies has been hindered by our lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms regulating the metastatic process in this disease. To understand the mechanism by which MB metastasis occurs, three-dimensional matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) experiments were performed on whole brains from a mouse model of human medulloblastoma. Analyzing the tumor and surrounding normal brain in its entirety enabled the detection of low abundance, spatially-heterogeneous lipids associated with tumor development. Boundaries of metastasizing and non-metastasizing primary tumors were readily defined, leading to the identification of lipids associated with medulloblastoma metastasis, including phosphatidic acids, phosphatidylethanolamines, phosphatidylserines, and phosphoinositides. These lipids provide a greater insight into the metastatic process and may ultimately lead to the discovery of biomarkers and novel targets for the diagnosis and treatment of metastasizing MB in humans.
Comparative analysis of seven types of superoxide dismutases for their ability to respond to oxidative stress in Bombyx mori
Authors: Kobayashi Yuta , Nojima Yosui , Sakamoto Takuma , Iwabuchi Kikuo , Nakazato Takeru , Bono Hidemasa , Toyoda Atsushi , Fujiyama Asao , Kanost Michael R. , Tabunoki Hiroko
Published: February 2019

Insects are well adapted to changing environmental conditions. They have unique systems for eliminating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a key enzyme that plays a primary role in removing ROS. Bombyx mori is a lepidopteran insect, whose body size is larger than the model insect Drosophila melanogaster, which enabled us to more easily examine gene expression at the tissue level. We searched B. mori SOD (BmSOD) genes using genome database, and we analyzed their function under different type of oxidative stress. Consequently, we identified four new types of BmSODs in addition to the three types already known. Two of the seven types had a unique domain architecture that has not been discovered previously in the SOD family, and they were expressed in different tissues and developmental stages. Furthermore, these BmSODs responded differently to several kinds of stressors. Our results showed that the seven types of BmSODs are likely to play different roles in B. mori; therefore, B. mori could be used to distinguish the functions of each SOD for resistance to oxidative stress that changes with the environmental conditions.
CT Enhancement and 3D Texture Analysis of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: D’Onofrio Mirko , Ciaravino Valentina , Cardobi Nicolò , De Robertis Riccardo , Cingarlini Sara , Landoni Luca , Capelli Paola , Bassi Claudio , Scarpa Aldo
Published: February 2019

To evaluate pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (panNENs) grade prediction by means of qualitative and quantitative CT evaluation, and 3D CT-texture analysis. Patients with histopathologically-proven panNEN, availability of Ki67% values and pre-treatment CT were included. CT images were retrospectively reviewed, and qualitative and quantitative images analysis were done; for quantitative analysis four enhancement-ratios and three permeability-ratios were created. 3D CT-texture imaging analysis was done (Mean Value; Variance; Skewness; Kurtosis; Entropy). Subsequently, these features were compared among the three grading (G) groups. 304 patients affected by panNENs were considered, and 100 patients were included. At qualitative evaluation, frequency of irregular margins was significantly different between tumor G groups. At quantitative evaluation, for all ratios, comparisons resulted statistical significant different between G1 and G3 groups and between G2 and G3 groups. At 3D CT-texture analysis, Kurtosis resulted statistical significant different among three G groups and Entropy resulted statistical significant different between G1 and G3 and between G2 and G3 groups. Quantitative CT evaluation of panNENs can predict tumor grade, discerning G1 from G3 and G2 from G3 tumors. CT-texture analysis can predict panNENs tumor grade, distinguishing G1 from G3 and G2 from G3, and G1 from G2 tumors.
The impact of sunlight exposure on mortality of patients with end stage renal disease
Authors: Yoon Una Amelia , Kim Yong Chul , Lee Hyewon , Kwon Soie , An Jung Nam , Kim Dong Ki , Kim Yon Su , Lim Chun Soo , Lee Jung Pyo , Kim Ho
Published: February 2019

Recent data suggest that reduced sunlight exposure is associated with increased mortality in the general population. To date, the association between sunlight exposure and mortality in dialysis patients has not been examined. Among 134,478 dialysis patients in the Korean end-stage renal disease (ESRD) cohort from 2001 to 2014, 31,291 patients were enrolled from seven metropolitan cities, and data were analyzed using bi-directional case-crossover design. We examined the association between short-term sunlight exposure and mortality in ESRD patients. We adjusted for temperature, humidity, and daily concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), and particle matter (PM10) as confounders. The characteristics of the study population included age (65.6 ± 12.26 (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) years), sex (male, 59.96%; female, 41.04%), comorbidity (diabetes, 53.58%; hypertension, 40.5%), and kidney dialysis type (hemodialysis, 73.02%; peritoneal dialysis, 26.98%). The mean ± SD follow-up time was 4.68 ± 4.37 years. The daily sunlight exposure was significantly decreased in the case group compared with the control group (P = 0.004). Sunlight exposure was associated with all-cause death overall (ORs [95% CI]: 0.99 [0.98–0.99], P = 0.042) in a fully adjusted model. Patients with diabetes (ORs [95% CI]: 0.98 [0.97–0.99], P = 0.016) or aged higher than 75 years (ORs [95% CI]; 0.97 [0.96–0.99], P = 0.020) had higher risks of mortality than patients without diabetes or aged below 75 years, respectively. These findings suggest that sunlight exposure is inversely correlated with all-cause mortality in dialysis patients.
Persistent autonomic dysfunction and bladder sensitivity in primary dysmenorrhea
Authors: Oladosu Folabomi A. , Hellman Kevin M. , Ham Paula J. , Kochlefl Laura E. , Datta Avisek , Garrison Ellen F. , Steiner Nicole D. , Roth Genevieve E. , Tu Frank F.
Published: February 2019

Menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, is a leading risk factor for bladder pain syndrome (BPS). A better understanding of the mechanisms that predispose dysmenorrheic women to BPS is needed to develop prophylactic strategies. Abnormal autonomic regulation, a key factor implicated in BPS and chronic pain, has not been adequately characterized in women with dysmenorrhea. Thus, we examined heart rate variability (HRV) in healthy (n = 34), dysmenorrheic (n = 103), and BPS participants (n = 23) in their luteal phase across a bladder-filling task. Both dysmenorrheic and BPS participants reported increased bladder pain sensitivity when compared to controls (p’s < 0.001). Similarly, dysmenorrheic and BPS participants had increased heart rate (p’s < 0.01), increased diastolic blood pressure (p’s < 0.01), and reduced HRV (p’s < 0.05) when compared to controls. Dysmenorrheic participants also exhibited little change in heart rate between maximum bladder capacity and after micturition when compared to controls (p = 0.013). Our findings demonstrate menstrual pain’s association with abnormal autonomic activity and bladder sensitivity, even two weeks after menses. Our findings of autonomic dysfunction in both early episodic and chronic visceral pain states points to an urgent need to elucidate the development of such imbalance, perhaps beginning in adolescence.
Significance of urinary C-megalin excretion in vitamin D metabolism in pre-dialysis CKD patients
Authors: Toi Norikazu , Inaba Masaaki , Ishimura Eiji , Tsugawa Naoko , Imanishi Yasuo , Emoto Masanori , Hirayama Yoshiaki , Nakatani Shinya , Saito Akihiko , Yamada Shinsuke
Published: February 2019

Serum 1,25(OH)2D and 24,25(OH)2D are decreased in CKD. Megalin in proximal tubular epithelial cells reabsorbs glomerular-filtered 25(OH)D-DBP complex to convert 25(OH)D to 1,25(OH)2D and 24,25(OH)2D. Urinary C-megalin excretion is increased via exocytosis from injured nephrons overloaded with megalin-mediated protein metabolism. This study investigated the significance of urinary C-megalin excretion in vitamin D metabolism in 153 pre-dialysis CKD patients. Urinary C-megalin was positively associated with urinary protein, β2MG and α1MG, and exhibited negative correlations with serum 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2D and 24,25(OH)2D. Multiple regression analysis showed that urinary C-megalin had a significantly negative association with 25(OH)D. Serum 1,25(OH)2D and 24,25(OH)2D, as well as 1,25(OH)2D/25(OH)D and 24,25(OH)2D/25(OH)D ratios, showed positive correlations with eGFR. Additionally, wholePTH was positively associated with 1,25(OH)2D/25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D/24,25(OH)2D, while FGF23 was positively associated with 24,25(OH)2D/25(OH)D and negatively with 1,25(OH)2D/24,25(OH)2D. Urinary C-megalin emerged as an independent factor positively associated with 1,25(OH)2D/25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D/24,25(OH)2D. Although 1,25(OH)2D and 24,25(OH)2D are decreased in CKD patient serum, our findings suggest that PTH and FGF23 retain their effects to regulate vitamin D metabolism even in the kidneys of these patients, while production of 1,25(OH)2D and 24,25(OH)2D from 25(OH)D is restricted due to either impairment of megalin-mediated reabsorption of the 25(OH)D-DBP complex or reduced renal mass.
Metabolic adaptation of adherent-invasive Escherichia coli to exposure to bile salts
Authors: Delmas Julien , Gibold Lucie , Faïs Tiphanie , Batista Sylvine , Leremboure Martin , Sinel Clara , Vazeille Emilie , Cattoir Vincent , Buisson Anthony , Barnich Nicolas , Dalmasso Guillaume , Bonnet Richard
Published: February 2019

The adherent-invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC), which colonize the ileal mucosa of Crohn’s disease patients, adhere to intestinal epithelial cells, invade them and exacerbate intestinal inflammation. The high nutrient competition between the commensal microbiota and AIEC pathobiont requires the latter to occupy their own metabolic niches to survive and proliferate within the gut. In this study, a global RNA sequencing of AIEC strain LF82 has been used to observe the impact of bile salts on the expression of metabolic genes. The results showed a global up-regulation of genes involved in degradation and a down-regulation of those implicated in biosynthesis. The main up-regulated degradation pathways were ethanolamine, 1,2-propanediol and citrate utilization, as well as the methyl-citrate pathway. Our study reveals that ethanolamine utilization bestows a competitive advantage of AIEC strains that are metabolically capable of its degradation in the presence of bile salts. We observed that bile salts activated secondary metabolism pathways that communicate to provide an energy benefit to AIEC. Bile salts may be used by AIEC as an environmental signal to promote their colonization.
Association between Poor Sleep Quality and Subsequent Peptic Ulcer Recurrence in Older Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: Examining the Role of Social Engagement
Authors: Fang Boye , Yang Shuyan , Xu Ruirui , Chen Gengzhen
Published: February 2019

This study aims to examine whether perceived poor sleep quality predicts subsequent recurrence of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) in older patients with mild cognitive impairment following Helicobacter pylori eradication and to investigate whether social engagement status alters this association. Of 1,689 older patients with H. pylori-infected PUD recruited from eight Grade-A hospitals in the People’s Republic of China between 2011 and 2014, H. pylori was eradicated and PUD cleared in 1,538 patients by the end of 2014; 1,420 of these were followed for up to 36 months. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to compare the proportion of PUD recurrence, as confirmed with esophagogastroduodenoscopy, among older patients with different levels of sleep quality and social engagement statuses. Multivariate Cox-proportional hazards models were performed to examine the association between sleep quality and PUD recurrence, and the role of social engagement in altering this relationship. The results showed that PUD recurrence was more prevalent in poor (10.8%) compared with good sleepers (5.5%). However, increased and continued social engagement reduced the proportion to 7.2% and 8.2% among poor sleepers, respectively. Poor sleep quality was associated with subsequent PUD recurrence (hazard ratio [HR] 1.965 (1.002, 3.518)). However, no significant difference was observed between good and poor sleepers who reported increased (HR 1.428 (0.736, 2.380)) and continued (HR 1.273 (0.915, 2.492)) social engagement, suggesting that increased and continued social engagement prevented the effect of poor sleep quality on PUD recurrence. To conclude, poor sleep quality is associated with subsequent PUD recurrence. However, increased and continued social engagement may moderate this association.
Precancer antiviral treatment reduces microvascular invasion of early-stage Hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Kai , Duan Jicheng , Liu Hu , Yang Xinwei , Yang Jiahe , Wu Mengchao , Chang Yanxin
Published: February 2019

The impact of antiviral therapy before tumorigenesis on microvascular invasion (MVI) of Chronic hepatitis B (CHB)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unknown. In this retrospective cohort study 3,276 HCC patients with early-stage who underwent curative resection were included. We investigated the effect of precancer antiviral therapy on the pathology, especially MVI, of CHB-related HCC. MVI occurrence rates of CHB-related HCC stratified by histopathologic inflammation grades of G1, G2, and G3 were 30.4%, 34.7%, and 38.6%, respectively, compared to 19.8% for CHB-negative HCC. Patients who received standard antiviral treatment showed much lower rates of MVI, higher tumor capsule integrity, less frequent satellite micronodules and lower AFP level compared to the no antiviral group. Moreover, precancer antiviral therapy prolonged the disease-free survival (DFS), which are also proved to be independent indicators of DFS. In addition, we show that antivirals may suppress early progression of HCC primarily by inhibition of HBV viral load, and influencing the expression levels of CK18, GPC3, OPN and pERK. Hence, we demonstrate that precancer antivirals significantly reduce the MVI rate of CHB-related HCC, reduce malignancy of early-stage HCC, and improve HCC prognosis. Thus, this study confirms the importance of antiviral therapy for CHB patients.
Immobilization of Peroxidase on Functionalized MWCNTs-Buckypaper/Polyvinyl alcohol Nanocomposite Membrane
Authors: Jun Lau Yien , Mubarak N. M. , Yon Lau Sie , Bing Chua Han , Khalid Mohammad , Jagadish Priyanka , Abdullah E. C.
Published: February 2019

Surface modified Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) Buckypaper/Polyvinyl Alcohol (BP/PVA) composite membrane was synthesized and utilized as support material for immobilization of Jicama peroxidase (JP). JP was successfully immobilized on the BP/PVA membrane via covalent bonding by using glutaraldehyde. The immobilization efficiency was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with the face-centered central composite design (FCCCD) model. The optimum enzyme immobilization efficiency was achieved at pH 6, with initial enzyme loading of 0.13 U/mL and immobilization time of 130 min. The results of BP/PVA membrane showed excellent performance in immobilization of JP with high enzyme loading of 217 mg/g and immobilization efficiency of 81.74%. The immobilized system exhibited significantly improved operational stability under various parameters, such as pH, temperature, thermal and storage stabilities when compared with free enzyme. The effective binding of peroxidase on the surface of the BP/PVA membrane was evaluated and confirmed by Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). This work reports the characterization results and performances of the surface modified BP/PVA membrane for peroxidase immobilization. The superior properties of JP-immobilized BP/PVA membrane make it promising new-generation nanomaterials for industrial applications.
A new ab initio modeling scheme for the ion self-diffusion coefficient applied to the ε-Cu3Sn phase of the Cu–Sn alloy
Authors: Ichibha Tom , Prayogo Genki , Hongo Kenta , Maezono Ryo
Published: February 2019

We present a new scheme for modeling of the ion self-diffusion coefficient.
Structural studies of spray pyrolysis synthesized oxygen deficient anatase TiO2 thin films by using X-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Sahoo Madhusmita , Yadav A. K. , Ghosh Subrata , Jha S. N. , Bhattacharyya D. , Mathews Tom
Published: February 2019

The present work focuses on synthesis and X-ray absorption studies of single phase oxygen deficient anatase TiO2 thin films.
Photoluminescence properties of self-assembled chitosan-based composites containing semiconductor nanocrystals
Authors: Slyusarenko Nina , Gerasimova Marina , Plotnikov Alexei , Gaponik Nikolai , Slyusareva Evgenia
Published: February 2019

The photoluminescence (PL) properties of composites obtained by embedding green-emitting semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) of two different types (thiol-capped CdTe and CdSe/ZnS) into chitosan-based biopolymer particles were investigated.
The atomic-scale structure of LaCrO3–NaTaO3 solid solution photocatalysts with enhanced electron population
Authors: Sudrajat Hanggara , Zhou Yizhong , Sasaki Takuro , Ichikuni Nobuyuki , Onishi Hiroshi
Published: February 2019

The atomic-scale structure of a NaTaO3 photocatalyst doped with La3+ and Cr3+ for visible light sensitization is successfully revealed.
Controlling the morphology of a hybrid polymer/nanoparticle active layer of solar cells: mesoscopic simulation
Authors: Komarov Pavel , Baburkin Pavel , Ivanov Viktor , Chen Show-An , Khokhlov Alexei
Published: February 2019

Using mesoscale simulation, we demonstrate that the morphology of the photoactive layer of solar cell devices can be controlled by proper choices of nanoparticle functionalization and the chemical structure of a conjugated copolymer.
Difunctional ammonium ionic liquids with bicyclic cations
Authors: Turguła Anna , Materna Katarzyna , Gwiazdowska Daniela , Walkiewicz Filip , Marcinkowska Katarzyna , Pernak Juliusz
Published: February 2019

The increasing limitations regarding the applied amounts of plant protection make hybrid ionic liquids an interesting class of compounds belonging to the III generation ILs.
A facile synthesis of label-free carbon dots with unique selectivity-tunable characteristics for ferric ion detection and cellular imaging applications
Authors: Chan Kok Ken , Yang Chengbin , Chien Yi-Hsin , Panwar Nishtha , Yong Ken-Tye
Published: February 2019

The application of a pH-tuning concept to create specific analytical responses of carbon dots towards a specific targeted metal ion.
Copper-catalyzed cross-dehydrogenative coupling between quinazoline-3-oxides and indoles
Authors: Yang Qin , Yin Zhijian , Zheng Lifang , Yuan Jianjun , Wei Song , Ding Qiuping , Peng Yiyuan
Published: February 2019

A novel and simple protocol for the synthesis of 4-(indole-3-yl)quinazolines via cross-dehydrogenative coupling of quinazoline-3-oxides and indoles under an air atmosphere has been developed.
ACE-inhibitory and antioxidant peptides from coconut cake albumin hydrolysates: purification, identification and synthesis
Authors: Zheng Yajun , Li Yan , Li Guifeng
Published: February 2019

Three ACE-inhibitory and antioxidant peptides were identified from enzymatic hydrolysates of coconut cake albumin in the current study.
Donor–acceptor-stabilised germanium analogues of acid chloride, ester, and acyl pyrrole compounds: synthesis and reactivity
Authors: Sharma Mahendra Kumar , Sinhababu Soumen , Mahawar Pritam , Mukherjee Goutam , Pandey Bhawana , Rajaraman Gopalan , Nagendran Selvarajan
Published: February 2019

Hitherto unknown germaacid chloride (1), germaester (2), and Ngermaacyl pyrrole (3) compounds are stabilised as Lewis acid complexes. Reactivity studies on them yielded compounds such as germaynone (4) and germaacyl thioester (10).
Sodium polyacrylate-derived porous carbon nanosheets for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Meng Fancheng , Fan Xiaojing , Xing Aiming , Liu Han , Lin Changhao , Wang Zhuangzhuang , Xu Lingsong , Zheng Lianxi , Liu Jiehua
Published: February 2019

A lithium–sulfur battery with a cathode material recycled from the superabsorbent polymer PAAS embedded in baby diapers.
Tandem structure: a breakthrough in power conversion efficiency for highly efficient polymer solar cells
Authors: Shi Zhenzhen , Bai Yiming , Chen Xiaohan , Zeng Rui , Tan Zhan'ao
Published: February 2019

Tandem structure enables a breakthrough in power conversion efficiency for highly efficient polymer solar cells.
Active chiral particles under confinement: surface currents and bulk accumulation phenomena
Authors: Caprini Lorenzo , Marini Bettolo Marconi Umberto
Published: February 2019

In this work, we study the stationary behavior of an assembly of independent chiral active particles under confinement by employing an extension of the active Ornstein–Uhlenbeck model.
High thermoelectric performance in Cu2Se superionic conductor with enhanced liquid-like behaviour by dispersing SiC
Authors: Lei Jingdan , Ma Zheng , Zhang De , Chen Yanqun , Wang Chao , Yang Xiaoyun , Cheng Zhenxiang , Wang Yuanxu
Published: February 2019

Nano-SiC in Cu2Se could facilitate liquid-like behavior to remarkably enhance electrical transport and suppress thermal conductivity simultaneously.
The synthesis of core–shell nanowires with intense dielectric and magnetic resonance properties at microwave frequency
Authors: Zhang Kun , Wu Fan , Jiao Yingzhi , Sun Mengxiao , Xia Yilu , Xie Aming
Published: February 2019

Highly intense narrowband dielectric and magnetic resonance at microwave frequency.
Template-free synthesis of Na0.5Bi2.5Ta2O9/Bi4TaO8Cl nano-heterostructures via a one-pot molten salt reaction for efficient photocatalysis
Authors: Hu Yidong , Meng Qingqiang , Li Chunmei , Zhou Yansong , Han Zhonghui , Xing Weinan , Hao Sue , Chen Gang
Published: February 2019

We present a simple, environmentally friendly, and one-pot template free method for fabricating Na0.5Bi2.5Ta2O9/Bi4TaO8Cl nano-heterostructure photocatalysts.
Temperature and isomeric effects in nanoclusters
Authors: Grigoryan Valeri G. , Springborg Michael
Published: February 2019

Energetic and thermodynamic properties as functions of temperature are studied.
Facile fabrication of Ni0.85Se nanowires by the composite alkali salt method as a novel cathode material for asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Shaolan , Ma Shuan
Published: February 2019

The search for Earth-abundant and efficient electrode materials is significant for advanced supercapacitors.
Irreversible catalytic methylcyclohexane dehydrogenation by surface protonics at low temperature
Authors: Takise Kent , Sato Ayaka , Murakami Kota , Ogo Shuhei , Seo Jeong Gil , Imagawa Ken-ichi , Kado Shigeru , Sekine Yasushi
Published: February 2019

Surface protonics by applying electric field promotes low temperature methylcyclohexane dehydrogenation for effective hydrogen production.
The conversion of α-pinene to cis-pinane using a nickel catalyst supported on a discarded fluid catalytic cracking catalyst with an ionic liquid layer
Authors: Hu Shunyou , Wang Linlin , Chen Xiaopeng , Wei Xiaojie , Tong Zhangfa , Yin Lijiang
Published: February 2019

The Ni/DF3C coated with ionic liquid layer exhibits excellent selectivity toward cis-pinane and stability in the hydrogenation of α-pinene.
Achieving a fine balance between the strong mechanical and high thermoelectric properties of n-type PbTe–3% Sb materials by alloying with PbS
Authors: Fu Liangwei , Cui Juan , Yu Yong , Huang Yi , Wang Yifan , Chen Yue , He Jiaqing
Published: February 2019

Alloying PbS in PbTe–3% Sb enables a fine balance between mechanical and thermoelectric properties.
Association between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ-2 gene Pro12Ala polymorphisms and risk of hypertension: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Miao , Zhang Jianping , Li Lifeng , Wang Qiang , Feng Limin
Published: February 2019

Previous studies investigate the relationship between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ-2 (PPAR) gene Pro12Ala polymorphisms and risk of hypertension. However, the number of available studies was extremely limited. We updated this evidence and gave more significant results. We performed comprehensive computer-based searches in the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar, the Cochrane library, Wanfang database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and China Biological Medicine Database. All studies that reported the association between the PPARγ2Pro12Ala polymorphisms and hypertension were identified. Twenty-one studies were finally included in the present study. In the domain model, the PPARγ1Pro12Ala polymorphism was not associated with hypertension (odds ratio (OR) = 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.71–1.03, P=0.108). The significant relationship was found in the recessive model (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.53–0.85), in the additive model (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.48–0.77), and in the allele genetic model (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.66–0.99). Subgroup analysis indicated that the PPARγ1Pro12Ala polymorphism from the all gene models was also not related to the risk of hypertension in Caucasians. In Asians, however, the results (P=0.002; I2 = 57.6%) suggested a significant relationship between PPARγ1Pro12Ala and hypertension in the domain model (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.65–0.99), in the recessive model (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.44–0.75), in the additive model (OR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.39–0.66), and in the allele model (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.60–0.94). The PPARγ1Pro12Ala polymorphism could affect the risk of primary hypertension amongst Asians. The A allele gene was a protective genotype for primary hypertension. The PPARγ1Pro12Ala polymorphism was not associated with hypertension amongst Caucasians.
Dynamical structure of the pulsating atmosphere of RR Lyrae
Authors: Gillet D. , Mauclaire B. , Lemoult T. , Mathias Ph. , Devaux J.-S. , de France Th. , Garrel T. ,   the GRRR Collaboration
Published: February 2019

Context. RRab stars are large amplitude pulsating stars in which the pulsation wave is a progressive wave. Consequently, strong shocks, stratification effects, and phase lag may exist between the variations associated with line profiles formed in different parts of the atmosphere, including the shock wake. The pulsation is associated with a large extension of the expanding atmosphere, and strong infalling motions are expected.

Aims. The objective of this study is to provide a general overview of the dynamical structure of the atmosphere occurring over a typical pulsation cycle.

Methods. We report new high-resolution observations with high time resolution of Hα and sodium lines in the brightest RR Lyrae star of the sky: RR Lyr (HD 182989). A detailed analysis of line profile variations over the whole pulsation cycle is performed to understand the dynamical structure of the atmosphere.

Results. The main shock wave appears when it exits from the photosphere at φ ≃ 0.89, i.e., when the main Hα emission is observed. Whereas the acceleration phase of the shock is not observed, a significant deceleration of the shock front velocity is clearly present. The radiative stage of the shock wave is short: 4% of the pulsation period (0.892 < φ < 0.929). A Mach number M > 10 is required to get such a radiative shock. The sodium layer reaches its maximum expansion well before that of Hα (Δφ = 0.135). Thus, a rarefaction wave is induced between the Hα and sodium layers. A strong atmospheric compression occurring around φ = 0.36, which produces the third Hα emission, takes place in the highest part of the atmosphere. The region located lower in the atmosphere where the sodium line is formed is not involved. The amplification of gas turbulence seems mainly due to strong shock waves propagating in the atmosphere rather than to the global compression of the atmosphere caused by the pulsation. It has not yet been clearly established whether the microturbulence velocity increases or decreases with height in the atmosphere. Furthermore, it seems very probable that an interstellar component is visible within the sodium profile.
A review of microwave devices based on CVD-grown graphene with experimental demonstration
Authors: Lu Wei-Bing , Chen Hui , Liu Zhen-Guo
Published: February 2019

As a two-dimension planar material with zero-gap structure, graphene has a lot of outstanding properties in microwave frequency band, and the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method can produce the large-scale graphene sheets with high quality for applications. Thus, the study about the microwave devices based on CVD-grown graphene has been aroused wide interests in the past few years. In this paper, mainly concentrating on the research by Chinese scientific groups, we review the development of microwave devices based on the CVD-grown graphene which are all validated by experiments, including attenuators, absorbers, antennas, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and beam reconfiguration.
Compact zeroth-order resonator (ZOR) antennas
Authors: Lee Jae-Gon , Lee Jeong-Hae
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we introduce and review the zeroth-order resonator (ZOR) antennas with outstanding characteristics including various applications that have been researched so far. Since the zeroth-order resonance frequency is independent of a physical length of antenna, the ZOR antenna can theoretically be designed quite small and have a possibility to apply to considerably lots of applications. First, we have presented the ZOR antennas implemented by double-negative (DNG), epsilon-negative (ENG), and mu-negative (MNG) transmission lines. Then, the research related on extremely small, wide beamwidth, wideband, and circularly polarized (CP) ZOR antennas have been continuously carried out. Based on a series of these studies, the ZOR antennas were utilized for various applications such as a wireless power transfer (WPT), a compact controlled reception pattern antenna (CRPA), a penta-band mobile antenna, and a wide steering array antenna.
Competition betweenBrachionus calyciflorusandBrachionus angularis(Rotifera) in relation to algal food level and initial population density
Authors: Zhang Kun , Wan Quan , Xi Yi-Long
Published: February 2019

Intensive interspecific competition for limited resource often can result in the exclusion of inferior competitors, decrease the species diversity and alter the structure of the zooplankton community. Competitive experiments betweenBrachionus calyciflorusandBrachionus angulariswere conducted at threeScenedesmusdensities (0.5 × 106, 1.0 × 106and 2.0 × 106cells ml−1) and four initial inoculation densities (numerically, 100%B. calyciflorus, 75%B. calyciflorusand 25%B. angularis, 50% each of the two species, 25%B. calyciflorusand 75%B. angularis, and 100%B. angularis). The results showed that at the low food level,B. angularisoutcompetedB. calyciflorusandvice versaat the high food levels. At the intermediate food level,B. angulariswas displaced byB. calyciflorusat nearly all the initial inoculation densities except for 75%B. angularis,at which both species coexisted until the termination of the experiment. When grown alone at 0.5 × 106, 1.0 × 106and 2.0 × 106cells ml−1ofScenedesmus,B. calyciflorusreached the peak abundance values of 34 ± 4, 69 ± 5 and 101 ± 9 individuals ml−1and had population growth rates of 0.608 ± 0.032, 0.654 ± 0.033 and 0.518 ± 0.039 d−1, respectively. The corresponding values forB. angulariswere 265 ± 8, 330 ± 30 and 802 ± 87 individuals ml−1and 0.623 ± 0.020, 0.770 ± 0.036 and 0.871 ± 0.013 d−1. The results suggest that the outcome of competition depends not only on the size of the competing species and food availability but also on their colonizing density.
La France et la Grande-Bretagne à l’ère de la médecine génomique
Authors: Horn Ruth
Published: February 2019

L’annonce du plan « France Médecine Génomique 2015 » témoigne de la volonté des pouvoirs publics français de faire de la médecine génomique l’un des éléments phares de la santé publique et de la recherche scientifique nationales. C’est dans ce contexte que la France a annoncé sa coopération avec la Grande-Bretagne, l’un des plus grands leaders mondiaux de la médecine génomique. Une telle collaboration au niveau international impose une réflexion à un cadre normatif commun qui réponde aux nouveaux défis éthiques posés par la médecine génomique. Afin qu’un tel cadre soit adapté aux différents contextes nationaux, il est nécessaire d’identifier et d’analyser les questions éthiques au niveau général et dans leurs contextes particuliers. Dans cette revue, nous discuterons de l’enjeu international de la médecine génomique et, plus précisément, de l’entrée de la France dans la compétition internationale. Nous explorerons ensuite les enjeux éthiques de la médecine génomique en prenant comme étude de cas le contexte prénatal. Nous finirons par une réflexion sur l’impact que peut avoir le contexte national sur la façon dont les questions éthiques émergent en France par rapport à la Grande-Bretagne.
L’évolution dirigée des protéines
Authors: Minard Philippe
Published: February 2019

Le prix Nobel de chimie a été décernée le 3 octobre 2018 pour moitié à Frances H. Arnold (California Institute of technology, Pasadena, États-Unis) et pour l’autre moitié conjointement à Georges P. Smith (University of Missouri, Columbia, États-Unis) et Sir Greg P. Winter (Medical Research Council et Laboratory of molecular Biology, Cambridge, Royaume-Uni). Ces trois chercheurs ont joué un rôle déterminant dans la genèse puis le développement d’un ensemble d’approches originales que l’on regroupe aujourd’hui sous l’expression « évolution dirigée des protéines ».
Le monde caché des clones mutants dans les tissus normaux
Authors: Jordan Bertrand
Published: February 2019

Careful sequencing studies on small samples of normal oesophageal epithelium reveal the presence of very abundant cellular clones harbouring mutations in known cancer genes (and elsewhere). The number and size of these clones increases with age. This surprising finding confirms previous studies on sun-exposed epidermis. It has important implications for the understanding of cancer initiation and will hopefully lead to conceptual and clinical advances.
Heißt „KI“ „Kein Interesse“?
Authors: Rychlik Reinhard Paul Theodor
Published: February 2019

Digitalisierung ist noch kein Unwort – aber die Anwartschaft zur Wahl besteht
schon länger. Wie lange dauert es also noch, bis wir uns mit den Details des
Zeitgeistes KI beschäftigen? Offenbar nicht mehr so lange, werden wir doch
täglich von neuen Szenarien überrollt, deren Kontrolle wir schon lange nicht
mehr in der Hand haben.
Krankheitskosten – Behandlungskosten chronischer Wunden sind höher als
angenommen
Authors: Fietz Cornelia
Published: February 2019

Nussbaum SR et al. An Economic Evaluation of the Impact, Cost, and Medicare
Policy Implications of Chronic Nonhealing Wounds. Value Health 2018; 21:
27–32

Trotz möglicher, schwerwiegender Komplikationen wie Amputation oder Tod sind
die Behandlungskosten chronischer Wunden weitgehend unbekannt, da sie häufig
ambulant versorgt werden. Nussbaum und Kollegen führen eine retrospektive
Analyse von Medicare-Patientendaten durch, um die Prävalenz verschiedener
Wundtypen und die zugehörigen Behandlungskosten zu ermitteln.
Krankenversicherung – Rettet die Prämiendifferenzierung das niederländische
System der Krankenzusatzversicherung?
Authors: Fietz Cornelia
Published: February 2019

van Winssen KPM et al. Can premium differentiation counteract adverse selection
in the Dutch supplementary health insurance? A simulation study. Eur J Health
Econ 2018; 19: 757–768

In der niederländischen Krankenzusatzversicherung zeichnet sich eine
Antiselektion ab: Immer weniger Einwohner schließen eine
Krankenzusatzversicherung ab oder wählen günstigere Versicherungspolicen mit
weniger umfassender Abdeckung als zuvor. Folglich sinken die Gewinne für die
Versicherungen, die Prämien steigen und Personen mit niedrigem Risiko
reduzieren aufgrund der hohen Kosten ihren Versicherungsschutz oder kündigen
die Zusatzversicherung – es entsteht ein Teufelskreis, der zu einer
Instabilität des Krankenversicherungsmarktes führt. Die Autoren simulieren,
ob eine Prämiendifferenzierung der Antiselektion entgegenwirken
kann.
Glücksspiel – Online-Glücksspiele und ihr Einfluss auf die
Gesundheitsausgaben
Authors: Potempa Christoph
Published: February 2019

Effertz et al. The effect of online gambling on gambling problems and resulting
economic health costs in Germany. Eur J Health Econ 2018; 19: 967–978

Problematisches Glücksspielverhalten entwickelt sich in vielen Ländern zu
einem ernstzunehmenden Problem, dessen Behandlung auch im deutschen
Gesundheitssystem zu erheblichen Ausgaben führt. Durch die Etablierung des
Online-Glücksspiels hat sich diese Problematik in den vergangenen Jahren
zusätzlich verschärft. Die Autoren um Effertz et al. veranschaulichen in
ihrer Analyse die gesundheitsökonomischen Auswirkungen dieser
Entwicklung.
Unexpected PF6 Anion Metathesis during the Bischler–Napieralski Reaction: Synthesis of 3,4-Dihydroisoquinoline Hexafluorophosphates and Their Tetrahydroisoquinoline Related Alkaloids
Authors: Puerto Galvis Carlos , Macías Mario , Kouznetsov Vladimir
Published: February 2019

A series of N-phenethylcinnamamides were subjected to the Bischler–Napieralski reaction to furnish diverse 1-styryl-3,4-dihydroisoquinolines. We noticed that the desired products were unstable when the reaction was performed under conventional solvent conditions. However, when [bmim]PF6 was used as the reaction media, the nature of the Bischler–Napieralski reaction promoted an unusual in situ ionic interchange between this ionic liquid and the dihydroisoquinoline core that led to the stabilization of the desired 1-styryl-3,4-dihydroisoquinolines, allowing their isolation as hexafluorophosphate salts. Finally, the one-pot reduction/reductive methylation process afforded the N-methyl derivatives, establishing that our findings can be an efficient and useful strategy for the concise synthesis of tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids.
Benzo-Fused 1,4-Heterocycles via Dialkyl Carbonate Chemistry
Authors: Musolino Manuele , Aricò Fabio
Published: February 2019

A novel halogen-free synthesis of benzo-fused six-membered 1,4-heterocycles through the chemistry of dialkyl carbonates is reported. Commercially available catechol, 2-aminophenol, and 2-amino­thiophenol were reacted first with ethylene carbonate in an autoclave to give O-hydroxyethyl, N-hydroxyethyl, and S-hydroxyethyl derivatives respectively, through a BAl2 mechanism. Then 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenol and 2-(2-hydroxyethylamino)phenol were cyclized in excellent yields by reaction with dimethyl carbonate (DMC) and DABCO as a bi­cyclic organic base to give the corresponding benzodioxine and benzoxazine derivative, respectively. Moreover, 2-(2-aminophenylthio)ethanol afforded the benzothiazine derivative in good yield by reaction with DMC with an excess of a strong base such as NaH. The investigation on the cyclization reaction has highlighted that several equilibria are involved leading to the formation of carbonate and carbamate intermediates through BAc2 mechanisms. Depending on the reaction conditions employed, these intermediates may undergo either kinetic-controlled ring closure by a BAl2 mechanism or by-product formation.
Deployment of Aziridines for the Synthesis of Alkaloids and Their Derivatives
Authors: D’hooghe Matthias , Ha Hyun-Joon , Macha Lingamurthy
Published: February 2019

Various (activated and non-activated) aziridines with diverse substitution patterns have been deployed successfully as starting materials for the synthesis of a wide variety of alkaloids via suitable functionalization and aziridine ring transformation. Alternatively, the preparation and interception of reactive aziridine intermediates has also been shown to constitute a valid approach toward alkaloid synthesis. This review summarizes aziridine-mediated syntheses of alkaloids, in which the aziridine is mobilized as either a substrate or an advanced synthetic intermediate.

1 Introduction

2 Alkaloids Synthesis from Aziridine Starting Materials

2.1 (2R)- and (2S)-Hydroxymethyl-N-(1-phenylethyl)aziridines

2.2 N-Benzylaziridine-2-carboxylates

2.3 2-Substituted N-Tosyl- or N-Tritylaziridines

2.4 2,3-Disubstituted N-Cbz- or N-Tosylaziridines

2.5 N-DMB-aziridines

3 Alkaloids Synthesis from Aziridines as Key Advanced Synthetic Intermediates

3.1 Alkylative Aziridine Ring Opening

3.2 Arylative Aziridine Ring Opening

3.3 Ring Expansion

3.4 Oxidative Aziridine Ring Opening

3.5 Heteroatomic Nucleophilic Aziridine Ring Opening

3.6 Reductive Aziridine Ring Opening

4 Conclusion
Synthesis of 1-Azaspiro[4.5]deca-1,3-dienes from N-Propargylic β-Enaminones in Basic Medium
Authors: Karadeniz Eda , Zora Metin
Published: February 2019

A facile, efficient and unprecedented method for the synthesis of spiro-2H-pyrroles is reported. When reacted with 1-ethynylcyclohexylamine, α,β-alkynic ketones produced cyclohexane-embedded N-propargylic β-enaminones, which in the presence of cesium carbonate underwent nucleophilic cyclization to afford 1-azaspiro[4.5]deca-1,3-diene derivatives in good to excellent yields. This cyclization was found to be general for a variety of cyclohexane-embedded N-propargylic β-enaminones and demonstrated good tolerance to a broad range of aliphatic, aromatic and heteroaromatic groups with electron-withdrawing and electron-donating substituents. The decoration of pyrrole compounds with a spiro framework may exhibit potential for the synthesis of molecules of pharmacological interest.
Endoscope-Assisted Minimally Invasive Microsurgical Removal of a Medium-Sized Acoustic Neuroma (T3a) through a Retrosigmoid Mini-Craniotomy with Preservation of Hearing
Authors: Kurucz Peter , Barany Laszlo , Buchfelder Michael , Ganslandt Oliver
Published: February 2019

A 45-year-old male patient with reduced hearing in the right ear was diagnosed with a medium-sized (T3a) acoustic neuroma. The operation was performed through an individually tailored retrosigmoid mini-craniotomy. Endoscope-assisted microsurgical technique was applied to early detect the location of the facial and cochlear nerves as well as to look around the hidden corners during the surgery. The entire operation was performed without using brain retractors. The moderate intrameatal extension of the tumor and the use of angled endoscopes allowed to avoid the drilling of the internal auditory meatus. The lesion could be completely removed and the patient showed a satisfactory hearing recovery in the follow-up examinations 3 months after the surgery.

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/dAYLakih924.
Perceived Barriers Among Healthcare Professionals for Access to Physical Therapy Service in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al Ghamdi Abdulmohsen , Al Shehri Abdullah , Ramirez Oscar , Shamshi Sharick , Khan Shabana
Published: February 2019

Objective To examine physical therapy scope of practice and to describe the barriers and facilitators for access to physical therapy services as reported by healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia.

Methods Ninety physical therapists from the 6 hospitals in the cities of Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam were surveyed by the cross-sectional questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed through email invitation or in-person. The questionnaire was developed to determine the perceived barriers to direct access to physical therapy service among healthcare professionals.

Results The present study had a response rate of 77.7% (70 out of 90 physical therapists). Majority of the participants were in the age group range of 21–30 years (41.4%) and 68.6% of the respondents’ highest educational qualification is a Baccalaureate degree. The gender distribution showed that the majority of the respondents were female (51.4%). More than a quarter of the participants had a clinical experience that ranges from 6 to 10 years. Majority of the participants were working in the city hospital (88.6%). Most of the participants strongly agreed or -agreed that the factors included in the questionnaire such as geographical accessibility, availability, affordability, and acceptability of services were barriers to provide access to physical therapy services in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusions This study documents many of the perceived barriers for access to providing physical therapy services in Saudi Arabia such as geographical accessibility, availability, affordability, and acceptability of services. Furthermore, the identified barriers could be used as a framework by policymaker and the third party payment system in order to further improve access to physical therapy services in Saudi Arabia.
Suppression of phospholipase D genes improves chalky grain production by high temperature during the grain-filling stage in rice
Authors: Yamaguchi Takeshi , Yamakawa Hiromoto , Nakata Masaru , Kuroda Masaharu , Hakata Makoto
Published: February 2019

High temperature (HT) during the grain developing stage causes deleterious effects on rice quality resulting in mature grains with a chalky appearance. Phospholipase D (PLD) plays an important role in plants, including responses to environmental stresses. OsPLDα1, α3 and β2-knockdown (KD) plants showed decreased production of chalky grains at HT. HT ripening increased H2O2 accumulated in the developing grains. However, the increase was canceled by the knockdown of OsPLDβ2. Expression levels of OsCATA which is one of three rice catalase genes, in developing grains of OsPLDβ2-KD plants at 10 DAF were increased compared with that in vector-controls in HT growth conditions. Overexpression of OsCATA markedly suppressed the production of chalky grains in HT growth conditions. These results suggested that OsPLDβ2 functions as a negative regulator of the induction of OsCATA and is involved in the production of chalky grains in HT growth conditions.