bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted next-generation sequencing of the 16S-23S rRNA region for culture-independent bacterial identification - increased discrimination of closely related species
Authors: Sabat Artur J. , van Zanten Evert , Akkerboom Viktoria , Wisselink Guido , van Slochteren Kees , de Boer Richard F. , Hendrix Ron , Friedrich Alexander W. , Rossen John W. A. , Kooistra-Smid Anna M. D.
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to develop an easy-to-use culture-free diagnostic method based on next generation sequencing (NGS) of PCR amplification products encompassing whole 16S-23S rRNA region to improve the resolution of bacterial species identification. To determine the resolution of the new method 67 isolates were subjected to four identification methods: Sanger sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene; NGS of the 16S-23S rRNA region using MiSeq (Illumina) sequencer; Microflex MS (Bruker) and VITEK MS (bioMérieux). To evaluate the performance of this new method when applied directly on clinical samples, we conducted a proof of principle study with 60 urine samples from patients suspected of urinary tract infections (UTIs), 23 BacT/ALERT (bioMérieux) positive blood culture bottles and 21 clinical orthopedic samples. The resolution power of NGS of the 16S-23S rRNA region was superior to other tested identification methods. Furthermore, the new method correctly identified pathogens established as the cause of UTIs and blood stream infections with conventional culture. NGS of the 16S-23S rRNA region also showed increased detection of bacterial microorganisms in clinical samples from orthopedic patients. Therefore, we conclude that our method has the potential to increase diagnostic yield for detection of bacterial pathogenic species compared to current methods.
Giant Magnetic Band Gap in the Rashba-Split Surface State of Vanadium-Doped BiTeI: A Combined Photoemission and Ab Initio Study
Authors: Klimovskikh I. I. , Shikin A. M. , Otrokov M. M. , Ernst A. , Rusinov I. P. , Tereshchenko O. E. , Golyashov V. A. , Sánchez-Barriga J. , Varykhalov A. Yu. , Rader O. , Kokh K. A. , Chulkov E. V.
Published: June 2017

One of the most promising platforms for spintronics and topological quantum computation is the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) with strong spin-orbit interaction and out-of-plane ferromagnetism. In proximity to an s-wave superconductor, such 2DEG may be driven into a topologically non-trivial superconducting phase, predicted to support zero-energy Majorana fermion modes. Using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy and ab initio calculations, we study the 2DEG at the surface of the vanadium-doped polar semiconductor with a giant Rashba-type splitting, BiTeI. We show that the vanadium-induced magnetization in the 2DEG breaks time-reversal symmetry, lifting Kramers degeneracy of the Rashba-split surface state at the Brillouin zone center via formation of a huge gap of about 90 meV. As a result, the constant energy contour inside the gap consists of only one circle with spin-momentum locking. These findings reveal a great potential of the magnetically-doped semiconductors with a giant Rashba-type splitting for realization of novel states of matter.
Beta sitosterol and Daucosterol (phytosterols identified in Grewia tiliaefolia) perturbs cell cycle and induces apoptotic cell death in A549 cells
Authors: Rajavel Tamilselvam , Mohankumar Ramar , Archunan Govindaraju , Ruckmani Kandasamy , Devi Kasi Pandima
Published: June 2017

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related deaths both in developed and developing countries. Since majority of the existing therapeutic methods harms both normal and malignant cells, a viable alternative is to switch into safe and beneficial traditional medicinal plants. Hence the present study was framed to identify selective anti-lung cancer agents from the medicinal plant Grewia tiliaefolia (GT). Cell viability experiments showed that benzene extract of GT (BGT) leaf effectively inhibited the growth of A549 cells, while being non-toxic to normal human lung L132 and PBMC cells. Ames and comet assays demonstrated that BGT is of non-mutagenic and non-genotoxic nature in untransformed cells. The hematological and histopathological profiles of the in vivo acute and sub-acute toxicity studies demonstrated that BGT is safe and tolerable. Importantly, western blot analysis and Annexin V-FITC staining confirmed that BGT promotes mitochondrial dependent apoptotic cell death in A549 cells by arresting cell cycle at G2/M phase. Bio-assay guided fractionation revealed the presence of phytosteols (β-sitosterol and daucosterol) which significantly inhibited the growth of A549 cells both alone and in combination. This study warrants that these phytosterols in alone or in combination can be considered as safe and potential drug candidates for lung cancer treatment.
Low Loss Nanostructured Polymers for Chip-scale Waveguide Amplifiers
Authors: Chen George F. R. , Zhao Xinyu , Sun Yang , He Chaobin , Tan Mei Chee , Tan Dawn T. H.
Published: June 2017

On-chip waveguide amplifiers offer higher gain in small device sizes and better integration with photonic devices than the commonly available fiber amplifiers. However, on-chip amplifiers have yet to make its way into the mainstream due to the limited availability of materials with ideal light guiding and amplification properties. A low-loss nanostructured on-chip channel polymeric waveguide amplifier was designed, characterized, fabricated and its gain experimentally measured at telecommunication wavelength. The active polymeric waveguide core comprises of NaYF4:Yb,Er,Ce core-shell nanocrystals dispersed within a SU8 polymer, where the nanoparticle interfacial characteristics were tailored using hydrolyzed polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane-graft-poly(methyl methacrylate) to improve particle dispersion. Both the enhanced IR emission intensity from our nanocrystals using a tri-dopant scheme and the reduced scattering losses from our excellent particle dispersion at a high solid loading of 6.0 vol% contributed to the outstanding optical performance of our polymeric waveguide. We achieved one of the highest reported gain of 6.6 dB/cm using a relatively low coupled pump power of 80 mW. These polymeric waveguide amplifiers offer greater promise for integrated optical circuits due to their processability and integration advantages which will play a key role in the emerging areas of flexible communication and optoelectronic devices.
Label-free imaging of bone multiscale porosity and interfaces using third-harmonic generation microscopy
Authors: Genthial Rachel , Beaurepaire Emmanuel , Schanne-Klein Marie-Claire , Peyrin Françoise , Farlay Delphine , Olivier Cécile , Bala Yohann , Boivin Georges , Vial Jean-Claude , Débarre Delphine , Gourrier Aurélien
Published: June 2017

Interfaces provide the structural basis of essential bone functions. In the hierarchical structure of bone tissue, heterogeneities such as porosity or boundaries are found at scales ranging from nanometers to millimeters, all of which contributing to macroscopic properties. To date, however, the complexity or limitations of currently used imaging methods restrict our understanding of this functional integration. Here we address this issue using label-free third-harmonic generation (THG) microscopy. We find that the porous lacuno-canalicular network (LCN), revealing the geometry of osteocytes in the bone matrix, can be directly visualized in 3D with submicron precision over millimetric fields of view compatible with histology. THG also reveals interfaces delineating volumes formed at successive remodeling stages. Finally, we show that the structure of the LCN can be analyzed in relation with that of the extracellular matrix and larger-scale structures by simultaneously recording THG and second-harmonic generation (SHG) signals relating to the collagen organization.
Satellite tagging of Mediterranean fin whales: working towards the identification of critical habitats and the focussing of mitigation measures
Authors: Panigada Simone , Donovan Gregory P. , Druon Jean-Noël , Lauriano Giancarlo , Pierantonio Nino , Pirotta Enrico , Zanardelli Margherita , Zerbini Alexandre N. , di Sciara Giuseppe Notarbartolo
Published: June 2017

Mediterranean fin whales comprise a genetically distinct population, listed as Vulnerable (VU) in the IUCN Red List. Collisions with vessels are believed to represent the main cause of human-induced mortality. The identification of critical habitats (including migration routes) incorporating satellite telemetry data is therefore crucial to develop focussed conservation efforts. Between 2012 and 2015 thirteen fin whales were equipped with satellite transmitters, 8 in the Pelagos Sanctuary (although two ceased within two days) and 5 in the Strait of Sicily, to evaluate movements and habitat use. A hierarchical switching state-space model was used to identify transiting and area-restricted search (ARS) behaviours, believed to indicate foraging activities. All whales undertook mid- to long-distance migrations, crossing some of the world’s busiest maritime routes. Areas where the animals predominantly engaged in ARS behaviour were identified in both study areas. The telemetry data were compared with results from ecosystem niche modelling, and showed that 80% of tagged whale positions was near (<7 km) the closest suitable habitat. The results contribute to the view that precautionary management should include establishment of a coordinated and dynamic basin-wide management scheme; if appropriate, this may include the establishment of protected areas by specific regional Conventions.
A Guide to Design Functional Molecular Liquids with Tailorable Properties using Pyrene-Fluorescence as a Probe
Authors: Lu Fengniu , Takaya Tomohisa , Iwata Koichi , Kawamura Izuru , Saeki Akinori , Ishii Masashi , Nagura Kazuhiko , Nakanishi Takashi
Published: June 2017

Solvent-free, nonvolatile, room-temperature alkylated-π functional molecular liquids (FMLs) are rapidly emerging as a new generation of fluid matter. However, precision design to tune their physicochemical properties remains a serious challenge because the properties are governed by subtle π-π interactions among functional π-units, which are very hard to control and characterize. Herein, we address the issue by probing π-π interactions with highly sensitive pyrene-fluorescence. A series of alkylated pyrene FMLs were synthesized. The photophysical properties were artfully engineered with rational modulation of the number, length, and substituent motif of alkyl chains attached to the pyrene unit. The different emission from the excimer to uncommon intermediate to the monomer scaled the pyrene-pyrene interactions in a clear trend, from stronger to weaker to negligible. Synchronously, the physical nature of these FMLs was regulated from inhomogeneous to isotropic. The inhomogeneity, unexplored before, was thoroughly investigated by ultrafast time-resolved spectroscopy techniques. The result provides a clearer image of liquid matter. Our methodology demonstrates a potential to unambiguously determine local molecular organizations of amorphous materials, which cannot be achieved by conventional structural analysis. Therefore this study provides a guide to design alkylated-π FMLs with tailorable physicochemical properties.
Isothiocyanates are detected in human synovial fluid following broccoli consumption and can affect the tissues of the knee joint
Authors: Davidson Rose , Gardner Sarah , Jupp Orla , Bullough Angela , Butters Sue , Watts Laura , Donell Simon , Traka Maria , Saha Shikha , Mithen Richard , Peffers Mandy , Clegg Peter , Bao Yongping , Cassidy Aedin , Clark Ian
Published: June 2017

Osteoarthritis is a major cause of disability and there is no current pharmaceutical treatment which can prevent the disease or slow its progression. Dietary advice or supplementation is clearly an attractive option since it has low toxicity and ease of implementation on a population level. We have previously demonstrated that sulforaphane, a dietary isothiocyanate derived from its glucosinolate precursor which is found in broccoli, can prevent cartilage destruction in cells, in in vitro and in vivo models of osteoarthritis. As the next phase of this research, we enrolled 40 patients with knee osteoarthritis undergoing total knee replacement into a proof-of-principle trial. Patients were randomised to either a low or high glucosinolate diet for 14 days prior to surgery. We detected ITCs in the synovial fluid of the high glucosinolate group, but not the low glucosinolate group. This was mirrored by an increase in ITCs and specifically sulforaphane in the plasma. Proteomic analysis of synovial fluid showed significantly distinct profiles between groups with 125 differentially expressed proteins. The functional consequence of this diet will now be tested in a clinical trial.
Dynamic Nuclear Polarization NMR as a new tool to investigate the nature of organic compounds occluded in plant silica particles
Authors: Masion Armand , Alexandre Anne , Ziarelli Fabio , Viel Stéphane , Santos Guaciara M.
Published: June 2017

The determination of the chemical nature of the organic matter associated with phytoliths remains a challenge. This difficulty mainly stems from amounts of organic carbon (C) that are often well below the detection limit of traditional spectroscopic tools. Conventional solid-state 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is widely used to examine the nature and structure of organic molecules, but its inherent low sensitivity prohibits the observation of diluted samples. The recent advent of commercial microwave source in the terahertz range triggered a renewed interest in the Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) technique to improve the signal to noise ratio of solid-state NMR experiments. With this technique, the 13C spectrum of a phytolith sample containing 0.1% w/w C was obtained overnight with sufficient quality to permit a semi-quantitative analysis of the organic matter, showing the presence of peptides and carbohydrates as predominant compounds. Considering the natural abundance of the 13C isotope, this experiment demonstrates that DNP NMR is sufficiently sensitive to observe spin systems present in amounts as low as a few tens of ppm.
Synchronization of excitable cardiac cultures of different origin
Authors: Agladze N. N. , Halaidych O. V. , Tsvelaya V. A. , Bruegmann T. , Kilgus C. , Sasse P. , Agladze K. I.
Published: June 2017

In the present work, we investigated the synchronization of electrical activity in cultured cardiac cells of different origin put in direct contact.
Silica fouling in coal seam gas water reverse osmosis desalination
Authors: Lunevich L. , Sanciolo P. , Milne N. , Gray S. R.
Published: June 2017

Silica fouling was studied in RO desalination of high salinity (30–60 g L−1 as NaCl) coal seam gas (CSG) water for a range of silica concentrations, pH conditions and dissolved aluminium concentrations.
In situ high-precision Ni isotope analysis of metals by femtosecond-LA-MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Weyrauch Mona , Oeser Martin , Brüske Annika , Weyer Stefan
Published: June 2017

In this study, an in situ technique for high-precision determination of Ni stable isotope ratios by femtosecond-laser ablation-multicollector-ICP-MS (fs-LA-MC-ICP-MS) was developed.
Proteomic analysis reveals Xuesaitong injection attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by elevating pyruvate dehydrogenase-mediated aerobic metabolism
Authors: Zhao Xiaoping , Zhang Feng , Wang Yi
Published: June 2017

The cardioprotective effects of XST in hearts with ischemic/reperfusion injury may be attributed to the promotion of PDH-mediated aerobic metabolism and its anti-oxidative stress properties.
Tetracycline-controllable artificial microRNA-HOTAIR + EZH2 suppressed the progression of bladder cancer cells
Authors: Chen Yincong , Xie Haibiao , Zou Yifan , Lai Xiulan , Ma Lian , Liu Yuchen , Li Jianfa
Published: June 2017

Previous studies have suggested that EZH2 is up-regulated in bladder cancer tissues and identified it as a biomarker for poor prognosis.
Synthesis of functionalized alkyl substituted benzoquinones by Rh-catalyzed additions of boronic acids
Authors: Veguillas Marcos , Rojas-Martín Jaime , Ribagorda María , Carreño M. Carmen
Published: June 2017

An efficient, group tolerant one-pot process has been developed for the synthesis of functionalized-quinones, using a Rh-catalyzed addition as a key step.
An efficient synthesis of 6-arylbenzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1-a]isoquinolines via sequential α-arylation of carbonyl and deacylation catalyzed by CuI
Authors: Miao Wei-Qing , Liu Jian-Quan , Wang Xiang-Shan
Published: June 2017

Dibenzoyl methane was found to undergo α-arylation of carbonyl and deacylation reaction with 2-(2-bromophenyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles catalyzed by CuI in the presence of Cs2CO3, and provided an efficient synthesis of 6-arylbenzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1-a]isoquinolines.
A novel metal-free amidosulfenylation of alkenes leading to β-azolyl sulfides
Authors: Sun Kai , Lv Yunhe , Shi Zuodong , Mu Shiqiang , Li Changhao , Wang Xin
Published: June 2017

A rapid access to β-azolyl sulfides has been developed for the synthesis of nitrogen- and sulfur-containing molecules.
Synthesis of seven-membered heterocycles via copper-catalyzed cross-coupling of terminal alkynes with diazo compounds and sequential Michael addition
Authors: Yan Shenghu , Cao Shengyu , Sun Jiangtao
Published: June 2017

A novel approach to synthesize seven-membered heterocycles is established by reacting amide tethered terminal alkynes with aryl diazoacetates in a one-pot reaction.
Body temperature-responsive two-way and moisture-responsive one-way shape memory behaviors of poly(ethylene glycol)-based networks
Authors: Yang Guang , Liu Xueyang , Tok Alfred Iing Yoong , Lipik Vitali
Published: June 2017

In this work, crosslinked shape-memory polymer networks were prepared by thermally induced free-radical polymerizations of methacrylate-terminated poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and n-butyl acrylate (BA), which integrate thermal-responsive two-way and moisture-responsive one-way shape memory effects (SME).
Fabrication and multifunctional properties of polyimide based hierarchical composites with in situ grown carbon nanotubes
Authors: Su Chao , Xue Feng , Li Tongsheng , Xin Yuanshi , Wang Mingming , Tang Jia , Ma Yuning
Published: June 2017

Polyimide (PI) based hierarchical composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) directly grown on the surface of carbon fabric were prepared.
TiO2-coated window for facilitated gas evolution in PEC solar water splitting
Authors: Miranda Sérgio , Vilanova António , Lopes Tânia , Mendes Adélio
Published: June 2017

TiO2 films were prepared for facilitating the evolved gas bubbles to slip over the front window of PEC cells resulting in a transparency improvement of up to 10%.
Non-thermal acoustic treatment as a safe alternative to thermosensitive liposome-involved hyperthermia for cancer therapy
Authors: Um Wooram , Kwon Seunglee , You Dong Gil , Cha Jae Min , Kim Hyun Ryoung , Park Jae Hyung
Published: June 2017

Non-thermal acoustic treatment led to higher tissue penetration without permanent vascular damage and greater intratumoral drug accumulation than thermal treatment.
Silicone oil impregnated nano silica modified glass surface and influence of environmental dust particles on optical transmittance
Authors: Yilbas Bekir Sami , Yousaf Muhammad Rizwan , Al-Sharafi Abdullah , Ali Haider , Al-Sulaiman Fahad , Abu-Dheir Numan , Khaled Mazen , Al-Aqeeli Nasser
Published: June 2017

The behavior of environmental dust particles on a silicone oil impregnated glass surface is examined in relation to optical transparent surfaces for self-cleaning applications.
Green fluorescent organic nanoparticles based on carbon dots and self-polymerized dopamine for cell imaging
Authors: Zhang Tianxiang , Xu Hongwei , Wang He , Zhu Jinyang , Zhai Yue , Bai Xue , Dong Biao , Song Hongwei
Published: June 2017

Fluorescent organic nanoparticles (FON) based on polydopamine (PDA) have recently emerged as a novel fluorescent probe due to its facile synthesis procedure, good water solubility, and excellent biocompatibility.
Electrospun TiO2/ZnO/PAN hybrid nanofiber membranes with efficient photocatalytic activity
Authors: Yar Adem , Haspulat Bircan , Üstün Tugay , Eskizeybek Volkan , Avcı Ahmet , Kamış Handan , Achour Slimane
Published: June 2017

Electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers were decorated with TiO2, ZnO and TiO2/ZnO nanoparticles for the first time to prepare flexible multifunctional nanofibrous membranes.
Investigation of carbon deposition induced by pyrolytic decomposition of ethylene
Authors: Lin Ling , Lai Meishuang , Li Haifang , Tian Fei , Chen Yulong , Sun Jiashu , Lin Jin-Ming
Published: June 2017

We employed Raman spectroscopy to characterize the formed carbon deposits under different conditions inside a built-in U-shape quartz tube for unravelling mechanism of carbon deposition on stainless steel.
Characterization and photoelectrochemical properties of CICS thin films grown via an electrodeposition route
Authors: Chihi Adel , Bessais Brahim
Published: June 2017

In this work, cerium doped CuInS2 (CIS) polycrystalline thin films with different Ce content are firstly synthesized on indium doped tin oxide (ITO) glass via a low-cost electrochemical technique.
Layered manganese-based metal–organic framework as a high capacity electrode material for supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Xianmei , Liu Xiuxiu , Rong Hongren , Song Yidan , Wen Hao , Liu Qi
Published: June 2017

The layered Mn-based metal–organic framework (Mn-LMOF) displayed good performance as an electrode material for supercapacitors.
Blocked isocyanate silane modified Al2O3/polyamide 6 thermally conductive and electrical insulation composites with outstanding mechanical properties
Authors: Ren Fengmei , Zhou Ran , Sun Fang , Ma Haihong , Zhou Zhengfa , Xu Weibing
Published: June 2017

When the content of Al2O3 was higher than 50 wt%, the tensile strength of KH-331 modified Al2O3/PA6 composites decreased, but the tensile strength of MEKO blocked isocyanate-propyltriethoxy silane modified Al2O3/PA6 composites increased.
Preparation and thermal properties of crosslinked polyurethane/lauric acid composites as novel form stable phase change materials with a low degree of supercooling
Authors: Kong Weibo , Fu Xiaowei , Yuan Ye , Liu Zhimeng , Lei Jingxin
Published: June 2017

In this article, a series of crosslinked polyurethane/lauric acid composites was prepared as form stable phase change materials (FSPCMs) through a brief and solvent-free method.
Surface modification using crosslinking of diamine and a bis(diarylcarbene): synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial activity via binding hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Yang Pengfei , Moloney Mark G.
Published: June 2017

Modification of polymer beads with a functionalized bis(arylcarbene) provides access to materials with biocidal properties.
N,N-Dimethylation of nitrobenzenes with CO2 and water by electrocatalysis
Authors: Sun Xiaofu , Zhu Qinggong , Hu Jiayin , Kang Xinchen , Ma Jun , Liu Huizhen , Han Buxing
Published: June 2017

We have developed a strategy for the synthesis of N,N-dimethylanilines by the N,N-dimethylation of nitrobenzenes with CO2 using H2O as the hydrogen source.
Industrial production of ultra-stable sulfonated graphene quantum dots for Golgi apparatus imaging
Authors: Wang Liang , Wu Bin , Li Weitao , Li Zhen , Zhan Jing , Geng Bijiang , Wang Shilong , Pan Dengyu , Wu Minghong
Published: June 2017

Ultra-stable sulfonated graphene quantum dots are industrially synthesized and serve as Golgi targeted imaging probes.
Scalable exfoliation for large-size boron nitride nanosheets by low temperature thermal expansion-assisted ultrasonic exfoliation
Authors: Yuan Feng , Jiao Weicheng , Yang Fan , Liu Wenbo , Liu Jiayin , Xu Zhonghai , Wang Rongguo
Published: June 2017

Few-layer and large-size BNNSs with a high yield of 26% are successfully prepared by a simple method.
Electron spin dynamics in vertical magnetic junctions incorporating two-dimensional layered materials
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Zahir , Hussain Ghulam
Published: June 2017

The incorporation of graphene, TMDCs, insulating hBN and their hybrid systems in magnetic junctions have revealed fascinating features for spintronic devices.
Short startup, batteryless, self‐starting thermal energy harvesting chip working in full clock cycle
Authors: Sinha Arun Kumar , Schneider Marcio Cherem
Published: June 2017

The Internet of Things paradigm considers the deployment in the environment of a profusion of heterogeneous sensor nodes, connected in a complex network, and autonomously powered. Energy harvesting is the common proposed solution to supply such sensors, and many different sources such as light, mechanical vibrations, temperature differences can be considered individually or in combination. Specifically, a thermoelectric generator (TEG), taking advantage of the Seebeck effect, is able to harvest electrical power from a temperature gradient of a few degrees. This study presents a chip fabricated in 130 nm CMOS technology, designed to convert a typical 50 mV output from a TEG into 1 V. The batteryless design utilises both halves of a 50% duty cycle clock. Measurements have been performed by using a TEG, and an equivalent TEG model, i.e. voltage source (50 mV–200 mV) with a series resistance of 5 Ω. The result shows that the proposed prototype can extract 60% (at 50 mV) to 65% (at 200 mV) of the total available power. The energy harvester can self‐start at 50 mV with a 2.8 ms startup time, which is a significant improvement over the past work.
BELIA: bandwidth estimate‐based link increase algorithm for MPTCP
Authors: Zhu Ming , Wang Lei , Qin Zhenquan , Ding Nan , Fang Jian , Liu Tao , Cui Qi
Published: June 2017

As a set of extensions to the regular Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), Multipath TCP (MPTCP) enables the multi‐homed devices to access one data stream through multiple paths. MPTCP congestion window control is the crucial part of maintaining the fair network resource allocation, especially in the coexist scene of MPTCP applications and regular TCP applications. However, the current MPTCP congestion window control is facing two major problems: (i) the lack of the lost‐packet detections, and (ii) the lack of the analysis mechanisms on the through‐load relationships. These two problems combined may affect the accuracy of the congestion window allocations and the performance of MPTCP. In this study, the authors propose a bandwidth estimate‐based link increase algorithm (BELIA). With the analysis of the link congestion occurrence mechanisms, they utilise a batch filter to estimate the real bandwidth of the links and define the link condition set to demonstrate the possibility of the congestion occurrence. For every loss, BELIA decides whether to cut window size off referring to the bandwidth estimates and . Hence, they proved that BELIA satisfies three design goals of MPTCP. Moreover, the authors’ simulations show that BELIA performs better than some typical MPTCP congestion control algorithms under the same circumstances.
Time‐division polynomial pre‐distorter for linearisation of 1.5 T MRI power amplifier
Authors: Hui Ming , Zhang Meng , Zhang Xingang , Zhu Xiaowei , Zhang Xiupu , Cheng Jiali
Published: June 2017

A time‐division polynomial (TDP) model is proposed for modelling and linearising a 1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) power amplifier (PA) with strong non‐linearity in high input signal dynamic range. In order to demonstrate the merit of this non‐linear model, a 64 dBm 1.5 T MRI PA (63.89 MHz) and two different Sinc‐pulse signals are used in modelling and linearisation measurements. The TDP is compared with the conventional non‐memory polynomial (NMP) and no digital pre‐distortion for the 1.5 T MRI PA, which is driven by test signal with 2 ms time length and 2% duty cycle. The proposed TDP leads to up to 9 dB improvement in the normalised mean square error compared with the NMP in two different test signals. More importantly, TDP illustrates significantly better reduction in amplitude modulation/amplitude modulation (AM/AM) and amplitude modulation/phase modulation (AM/PM) conversion compared with the NMP.
Base-Catalyzed Transcarbamoylation
Authors: Semetey Vincent , Rhoné Benoît
Published: June 2017

Inorganic bases such as NaH, KOt-Bu, NaOH, or KOH are efficient catalysts to promote the transcarbamoylation reaction between urethanes and a variety of primary and secondary alcohols under mild conditions. They constitute an alternative to organometallic catalysis and can be applied to aliphatic or aromatic urethanes.
Using Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Rates as a Health Care Quality Indicator: A Contentious Concept
Authors: Nair Girish , Niederman Michael
Published: June 2017

Pneumonia is a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections, although reported rates of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) have been declining in recent years. A multifaceted infection prevention approach, using a “ventilator bundle,” has been shown to reduce the frequency of VAP, while improving other patient outcomes. Because of difficulties in defining VAP, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Service introduced a new streamlined ventilator-associated event (VAE) definition in 2013 for the surveillance of complications in mechanically ventilated patients. VAE measures are increasingly being measured by institutions in the United States in place of VAP rates and as a potential measure of the quality of intensive care unit (ICU) care. However, there is increased recognition that the streamlined definitions identify a different subset of patients than those identified by traditional VAP surveillance and that VAP prevention strategies may not impact all the causes of VAE. Also, VAP and VAE rates may not always reflect the quality of care in a given ICU, especially since patient factors, beyond the control of the hospital, may impact the rates of VAP and VAE. In this review, we discuss the issues related to VAP as a quality measure and the areas of uncertainty related to the new VAE definitions.
Should We Immediately Start Antibiotics in Every Patient with a Clinical Suspicion of HAP/VAP?
Authors: Hassinger Taryn , Sawyer Robert
Published: June 2017

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) remain two of the most commonly diagnosed nosocomial infections. Both are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. The development of HAP and VAP is related to bacterial colonization of the oropharynx (and endotracheal tube in VAP) with subsequent microaspiration and development of clinical infection. Diagnosis is made based on the clinical presentation and can be confirmed by obtaining either noninvasive or invasive microbiology culture specimens. Decisions addressing initiation of antimicrobial therapy can be divided into clinical and bacteriological strategies. These strategies differ in the criteria used to determine the timing of empiric therapy, with the clinical strategy basing the decision on radiographic evidence of infection plus clinical signs and symptoms and the bacteriological strategy requiring growth of pathogens above a certain threshold from invasively obtained culture specimens. Despite the delineated pathways, these decisions remain multifactorial and should also include consideration of patient-related factors, such as immunocompetence, the risk of multidrug-resistant infection, and overall clinical condition. Patients with risk factors or signs of clinical decompensation should have empiric therapy initiated at a lower threshold. However, when possible, therapy should be directed at a confirmed infection following a positive culture result. Decisions regarding specific empiric regimens should be based on the local prevalence of infectious microorganisms along with their associated antimicrobial susceptibilities. Patients deemed at risk of infection with multidrug-resistant pathogens merit broader spectrum therapy, and immunosuppressed patients should have consideration of antifungal coverage.
Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance among Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Implications for Therapy
Authors: Zhanel George , Clark Nina , Lynch Joseph
Published: June 2017

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), a nonlactose fermenting gram-negative bacillus, is a common cause of nosocomial infections in critically ill or debilitated patients, particularly ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and infections of bloodstream, urinary tract, intra-abdominal, wounds/skin/soft tissue. PA rarely affects healthy individuals, but may cause serious infections in patients with chronic structural lung disease, comorbidities, advanced age, impaired immune defenses, or with medical devices (e.g., urinary or intravascular catheters, foreign bodies). Treatment of pseudomonal infections is difficult, as PA is intrinsically resistant to multiple antimicrobials, and may acquire new resistance determinants even while on antimicrobial therapy. Mortality associated with pseudomonal VAP or bacteremias is high (> 35%) and optimal therapy is controversial. Over the past three decades, antimicrobial resistance among PA has escalated globally, via dissemination of several international multidrug-resistant “epidemic” clones. We review the emergence of antimicrobial resistance to this pathogen, and discuss approaches to therapy (both empirical and definitive).
Oropharyngeal Decontamination with Antiseptics to Prevent Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia: Rethinking the Benefits of Chlorhexidine
Authors: Klompas Michael
Published: June 2017

Daily oral care with chlorhexidine for mechanically ventilated patients is ubiquitous in contemporary intensive care practice. The practice is predicated upon meta-analyses suggesting that adding chlorhexidine to daily oral care regimens can reduce ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) rates by up to 40%. Close analysis, however, raises three concerns: (1) the meta-analyses are dominated by studies in cardiac surgery patients in whom average duration of mechanical ventilation is < 1 day and thus their risk of VAP is very different from other populations, (2) diagnosing VAP is subjective and nonspecific yet the meta-analyses gave equal weight to blinded and nonblinded studies, potentially biasing them in favor of chlorhexidine, and (3) there is circularity between diagnostic criteria for VAP and chlorhexidine; as an antiseptic, chlorhexidine may decrease the frequency of positive respiratory cultures but fewer cultures does not necessarily mean fewer pneumonias. It is therefore important to look at other outcomes for corollary evidence on whether or not oral chlorhexidine benefits patients. An updated meta-analysis restricted to double-blinded studies in noncardiac surgery patients showed no impact on VAP rates, duration of mechanical ventilation, or intensive care unit length of stay. Instead, there was a possible signal that oral chlorhexidine may increase mortality rates. Observational data have raised similar concerns. This article will review the theoretical basis for adding chlorhexidine to oral care regimens, delineate potential biases in randomized controlled trials comparing oral care regimens with and without chlorhexidine, explore the unexpected mortality signal associated with oral chlorhexidine, and provide practical recommendations.
How Should We Treat HAP/VAP Caused by Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae?
Authors: Peghin Maddalena , Carnelutti Alessia , Righi Elda , Bassetti Matteo
Published: June 2017

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) represent a common problem in hospital setting worldwide. Infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) are an emergent problem due to the lack of therapeutic options available, leading to significant increases in morbidity and mortality. CRE have frequently been reported both in HAP/VAP, but limited data regarding the optimal treatment strategy in this setting are available. This review focuses on the current epidemiology of CRE, with a specific focus on HAP/VAP. Moreover, we will suggest a possible strategy for the empiric and targeted treatment of HAP and VAP in which the involvement of CRE is suspected or is confirmed.
New Strategies Targeting Virulence Factors of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: François Bruno , Luyt Charles-Edouard , Stover C. , Brubaker Jeffery , Chastre Jean , Jafri Hasan
Published: June 2017

Morbidity, mortality, and economic burden of nosocomial pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa remain high in mechanically ventilated and hospitalized patients despite the use of empirical antibiotic therapy or antibiotics against specific classes of pathogens and procedures to reduce nosocomial infections in hospital settings. Newer agents that neutralize or inhibit specific S. aureus or P. aeruginosa virulence factors may eliminate or reduce the risk for developing pneumonia before or during mechanical ventilation and may improve patient outcomes through mechanisms that differ from those of antibiotics. In this article, we review the types, mechanisms of action, potential advantages, and stage of development of antivirulence agents (AVAs) that hold promise as alternative preventive or interventional therapies against S. aureus– and P. aeruginosa–associated nosocomial pneumonias. We also present and discuss challenges to the effective utilization of AVAs separately from or in addition to antibiotics and the design of clinical trials and meaningful study end points.
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamics-Optimized Antimicrobial Therapy in Patients with Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia/Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia
Authors: Sulaiman Helmi , Abdul-Aziz Mohd , Roberts Jason
Published: June 2017

Hospital-acquired pneumonia and ventilator-associated pneumonia continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality. With increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance, the importance of optimizing antibiotic treatment is key to maximize treatment outcomes. This is especially important in critically ill patients in intensive care units, in whom the infection is usually caused by less susceptible organisms. In addition, the marked physiological changes that can occur in these patients can cause serious changes in antibiotic pharmacokinetics which in turn alter the attainment of therapeutic drug exposures. This article reviews the various aspects of the pharmacokinetic changes that can occur in the critically ill patients, the barriers to achieving therapeutic drug exposures in pneumonia for systemically delivered antibiotics, the optimization for commonly used antibiotics in hospital- and ventilator-associated pneumonia, the agents that should be avoided in the treatment regimen, as well as the use of adjunctive therapy in the form of nebulized antibiotics.
Is There a Role for Inhaled Antibiotics in the Treatment of Ventilator-Associated Infections?
Authors: Rello Jordi , Palmer Lucy
Published: June 2017

The increasing emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms creates a therapeutic challenge for physicians treating ventilator-associated respiratory infections. As the production of new systemic antibiotics lags far behind the emergence of worsening antibiotic resistance, intensivists are turning to inhaled antibiotics to use as adjunctive therapy. When given properly, these drugs can provide high concentrations of drug in the lung that could not be achieved with intravenous antibiotics without significant systemic toxicity. This review summarizes current evidence describing the use of inhaled antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial ventilator-associated infections. Inhaled adjunctive therapy has been described in numerous small nonrandomized studies and in six recent randomized placebo-controlled trials. Inhaled therapy has also been used to treat ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis. These preliminary data suggest aerosolized delivery of antimicrobials may effectively treat resistant pathogens with high minimum inhibitory concentrations when used in time-limited protocols and delivered with devices known to deposit antibiotics in the area of infection. Large, multisite, clinical, randomized placebo-controlled studies are needed to confirm these data.
Body Position and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Prevention
Authors: Xiol Eli , Pagliara Francesco , Hua Yang , Torres Antoni , Bassi Gianluigi
Published: June 2017

Seminal studies have demonstrated that tracheally intubated, mechanically ventilated patients, positioned in supine horizontal position, are at a high risk of developing ventilator-associated pneumonia, through aspiration of gastric pathogens. In the 1990s, innovative clinical findings promoted a radical change in practice, through the use of the semirecumbent position in all mechanically ventilated patients. Here, we critically review the main indications, pulmonary effects, and controversies on the use of the semirecumbent position. Also, we will depict potential roles of prone and lateral positions in the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Our review will span from preclinical experimental insights to clinical evidence, and we will discuss potential controversies on the use of the semirecumbent position as the standard of care. We will also detail potential alternatives to ultimately improve outcomes of tracheally intubated and mechanically ventilated patients.
How Should We Treat Hospital-Acquired and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Caused by Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase–Producing Enterobacteriaceae?
Authors: Timsit Jean-François , Pilmis Benoit , Zahar Jean-Ralph
Published: June 2017

Hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia (HAP/VAP) due to extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-PE) represent a growing problem. Indeed, ESBL-PE is endemic in many countries, and 5 to 25% of intensive care unit (ICU) patients are ESBL-PE carrier on ICU admission. ESBL-PE HAP/VAP is associated with a higher mortality than HAP/VAP due to susceptible Enterobacteriaceae because the resistance profile decreases the adequacy rate of empiric therapy. ESBL-PE should be considered in the empirical treatment in case of the high burden of ESBL-PE in the unit, in the case of previous ESBL-PE colonization, when the HAP/VAP occurs late, and in patients with shock. A negative active systematic surveillance culture on rectal swab reduced the risk of ESBL-PE VAP to less than 1%. Rapid diagnostic tests are now able to confirm the presence of ESBL-PE in VAP within 24 hours; new molecular methods will provide results within few hours.Adequate treatment usually required carbapenems. The alternative β-lactams such as β-lactams/β-lactamases inhibitor combinations could be proposed as a step-down therapy according to the antibiotic susceptibility result. Optimization of pharmacokinetics requires high dosage and continuous or prolonged infusions for β-lactams. When the patient is stabilized, a therapy of duration 7 to 8 days is recommended.
Racial Disparities in Delivery Gestational Age among Twin Pregnancies
Authors: Vladutiu Catherine , Manuck Tracy , Grant Jacqueline
Published: June 2017

Objective This study aims to estimate the association between maternal race and delivery gestational age among women with twin gestations.

Study Design Secondary analysis of a prospective, randomized control trial of 17-α hydroxyprogesterone caproate versus placebo for preterm birth (PTB) prevention in twin gestations. Non-Hispanic (NH) black and whites were included. Demographic and antenatal characteristics were compared. The primary outcome was delivery gestational age. Secondary outcomes included a composite of major neonatal morbidity. Kaplan–Meier curves estimated survival probabilities for delivery gestational age by race. Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results A total of 535 women with twin gestations were included; 150 were NH black. NH blacks delivered earlier than NH whites (33.6 ± 4.8 weeks vs. 35.1 ± 3.5 weeks, p < 0.001). Differences in delivery gestational age between NH blacks and whites were consistent across gestation. In adjusted analyses, NH black race (HR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.02–1.51), prior PTB (HR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.15–2.19), and cerclage (HR: 3.90, 95% CI: 2.00–7.60) were associated with an increased risk of earlier delivery. Major neonatal morbidity was higher for NH blacks compared with NH whites (12.7 vs. 7.0%, p = 0.036).

Conclusion NH blacks with twin gestations have an increased risk of early delivery and neonatal morbidity compared with NH whites.
Homöopathie in der brandenburgischen psychiatrischen Klinik: Zwei Fälle von Kalium bromatum und Ferrum carbonicum
Authors: Bitter Von Andrea , Geisler Julia , Thiele Claudia
Published: June 2017

Die homöopathische Herangehensweise bei Patienten einer psychiatrischen Klinik wird anhand von 2 Kasuistiken erläutert. Die Patienten besserten sich unter Kalium bromatum und
Ferrum carbonicum.
Lebensweise und Alzheimer
Authors: Nehls Michael
Published: June 2017

Alzheimer ist eine Mangelkrankheit, verursacht durch Diskrepanzen zwischen unseren natürlichen Bedürfnissen und Folgen der heutigen
Lebensweise: Chronischer Stress, ungesunde Ernährung, Mangel an Mikronährstoffen, Tiefschlaf, Bewegung, sozialen Aktivitäten sowie
Verlust des Lebenssinns. Basierend auf einer Allgemeinen Theorie der Alzheimer-Entstehung (Unified Theory of Alzheimer‘s Disease,
UTAD) beginnt die Erkrankung mit der gestörten Neubildung von Nervenzellen (Neurogenese) im hippocampalen Zentrum für das
autobiografische Erinnern. Die mangelhafte adulte Neurogenese führt zunächst zu einem chronisch erhöhten Level an Stresshormonen,
kurz- bis mittelfristig zu Depression und letztendlich zu den für Alzheimer typischen neuropathologischen und kognitiven
Veränderungen. Durch gezieltes Beheben der individuellen Mängel (der kausalen Risikofaktoren) im Rahmen einer systembiologischen
Intervention, lässt sich Alzheimer jedoch nicht nur vermeiden, im Frühstadium der Erkrankung ist der geistige Abbau sogar noch
umkehrbar.
Ich sehe … was?
Authors: Herzog Michael , Sengebusch Jürgen
Published: June 2017

Sie treten bei Kindern, Jugendlichen und Erwachsenen auf, mal mehr und mal weniger stark ausgeprägt. Manche können auch Hinweis auf ernsthafte Erkrankungen sein. Meist sind sie harmlos – aber lästig.
The Future of Liver Elastography in the Field of Hepatology
Authors: Sporea Ioan
Published: June 2017

Ultrasound-based liver elastography is being increasingly used in clinical practice to help clinicians assess prognosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment in hepatology patients. In coming years liver elastography will probably be increasingly used as part of "point of care" ultrasonography.