bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multidisciplinary evaluation of Clostridium butyricum clonality isolated from preterm neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis in South France between 2009 and 2017
Authors: Hosny Michel , Bou Khalil Jacques Yaacoub , Caputo Aurelia , Abdallah Rita Abou , Levasseur Anthony , Colson Philippe , Cassir Nadim , La Scola Bernard
Published: February 2019

The association between Clostridium species identification from stool samples in preterm neonates and the occurrence of necrotizing enterocolitis has been increasingly reported. To confirm the specific impact of Clostridium butyricum in this pathology, selective culture procedure was used for Clostridia isolation. Whole-genome analysis was employed to investigate genomic relationships between isolates. Stool samples from present study, as well as from previously investigated cases, were implicated including 88 from preterm neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis and 71 from matched controls. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to evaluate the presence of C. butyricum from stools of new cases. Clostridium species prevalence isolated by culture was compared between patients with necrotizing enterocolitis and controls. By combining results of both culture and quantitative polymerase chain reaction methods, C. butyricum was significantly more frequent in stool samples from preterm neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis than in controls. Whole-genome analysis of 81 genomes including 58 neonates’ isolates revealed that cases were clustered depending on geographical origin of isolation. Controls isolates presented genomic relations with that of patients suggesting a mechanism of asymptomatic carriage. Overall, this suggests an epidemiology comparable to that observed in Clostridium difficile colitis in adults.
Metformin inhibits lithocholic acid-induced interleukin 8 upregulation in colorectal cancer cells by suppressing ROS production and NF-kB activity
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thinh , Ung Trong Thuan , Li Shinan , Lian Sen , Xia Yong , Park Sun Young , Do Jung Young
Published: February 2019

Metformin, an inexpensive, well-tolerated oral agent that is a commonly used first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, has become the focus of intense research as a potential anticancer agent. In this study, we describe the inhibitory effect of metformin in interleukin 8 (IL-8) upregulation by lithocholic acid (LCA) in HCT116 colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Pharmacological inhibition studies indicated that reactive oxygen species (ROS) were involved in LCA-induced IL-8 upregulation through activation of the transcription factor NF-κB. Metformin was demonstrated to block LCA-stimulated ROS production, in turn suppressing NF-κB signaling that was critical for IL-8 upregulation. An NADPH oxidase assay proved that the inhibitory effect of metformin on ROS production was derived from its strong suppression of NADPH oxidase, a key producer of ROS in cells. Compared with conditioned media (CM) derived from HCT116 cells treated with LCA, CM derived from HCT116 cells pretreated with metformin and then treated with LCA lost all stimulatory effect on endothelial cell proliferation and tubelike formation. In conclusion, metformin inhibited NADPH oxidase, which in turn suppressed ROS production and NF-κB activation to prevent IL-8 upregulation stimulated by LCA; this prevention thus obstructed endothelial cell proliferation and tubelike formation.
Heart beat but not respiration is the main driving force of the systemic venous return in the Fontan circulation
Authors: Gabbert Dominik Daniel , Hart Christopher , Jerosch-Herold Michael , Wegner Philip , Salehi Ravesh Mona , Voges Inga , Kristo Ines , Bulushi Abdullah A. L. , Scheewe Jens , Kheradvar Arash , Kramer Hans-Heiner , Rickers Carsten
Published: February 2019

The Fontan procedure provides relief from cyanosis in patients with univentricular hearts. A major clinical unmet need is to understand whether the venous flow patterns of the Fontan circulation lead to the development of congestive hepatopathy and other life-threatening complications. Currently, there is no consensus on whether heart beat or respiration is the main driving force of venous return and which one affects the periodic flow changes for the most (i. e., pulsatility). The present study, for the first time, quantified respiratory and cardiac components of the venous flow in the inferior vena cava (IVC) of 14 Fontan patients and 11 normal controls using a novel approach (“physio-matrix”). We found that in contrast to the normal controls, respiration in Fontan patients had a significant effect on venous flow pulsatility, and the ratio of respiration-dependent to the cardiac-dependent pulsatility was positively associated with the retrograde flow. Nevertheless, the main driving force of net IVC flow was the heart beat and not respiration. The separate analysis of the effects of respiration and heart beat provides new insights into the abnormal venous return patterns that may be responsible for adverse effects on liver and bowel of the patients with Fontan circulation.
Intracellular toxic advanced glycation end-products in cardiomyocytes may cause cardiovascular disease
Authors: Takata Takanobu , Sakasai-Sakai Akiko , Ueda Tadashi , Takeuchi Masayoshi
Published: February 2019

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a lifestyle-related disease (LSRD) and one of the largest public health issues. Risk factors for CVD correlate with an excessive intake of glucose and/or fructose, which has been shown to induce the production of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). We previously identified AGEs derived from glyceraldehyde and named them toxic AGEs (TAGE) due to their cytotoxicities and relationship with LSRD. We also reported that extracellular TAGE in the vascular system may promote CVD and that serum TAGE levels are associated with risk factors for CVD. The mechanisms responsible for the onset and/or progression of CVD by extracellular TAGE or the above risk factors involve vascular disorders. In the present study, we revealed that rat primary cultured cardiomyocytes generated intracellular TAGE, which decreased beating rates and induced cell death. LC3-II/LC3-I, a factor of autophagy, also decreased. Although intracellular TAGE may be targets of degradation as cytotoxic proteins via autophagy, they may inhibit autophagy. Furthermore, the mechanisms by which intracellular TAGE decrease beating rates and induce cell death may involve the suppression of autophagy. The present results suggest that intracellular TAGE are generated in cardiomyocytes and directly damage them, resulting in CVD.
Neurotrophin receptor Ntrk2b function in the maintenance of dopamine and serotonin neurons in zebrafish
Authors: Sahu Madhusmita Priyadarshini , Pazos-Boubeta Yago , Pajanoja Ceren , Rozov Stanislav , Panula Pertti , Castrén Eero
Published: February 2019

Neurotrophins and their receptors have highly conserved evolutionary lineage in vertebrates including zebrafish. The NTRK2 receptor has two isoforms in zebrafish, Ntrk2a and Ntrk2b. The spatio-temporal expression pattern of bdnf and ntrk2b in the zebrafish brain was studied using in situ hybridization. The robust and corresponding expression pattern of ntrk2b to bdnf suggests that ntrk2b is the key receptor for bdnf in the zebrafish brain, unlike its duplicate isoform ntrk2a. To study ntrk2b function, two different genetic strategies, the TILLING mutant and morpholino oligonucleotides (MO), were used. Specific subsets of the dopaminergic and serotonergic neuronal populations were affected in the mutants and morphants. The mutant showed anxiety- like behavior both in larval and adult stages. Our results consistently indicate that BDNF/NTRK2 signaling has a significant role in the development and maintenance of aminergic neuronal populations. Therefore, the ntrk2b-deficient zebrafish is well suited to study mechanisms relevant for psychiatric disorders attributed to a dysfunctional monoaminergic system.
Structural and molecular correlates of cognitive aging in the rat
Authors: Mota Cristina , Taipa Ricardo , das Neves Sofia Pereira , Monteiro-Martins Sara , Monteiro Susana , Palha Joana Almeida , Sousa Nuno , Sousa João Carlos , Cerqueira João José
Published: February 2019

Aging is associated with cognitive decline. Herein, we studied a large cohort of old age and young adult male rats and confirmed that, as a group, old  rats display poorer spatial learning and behavioral flexibility than younger adults. Surprisingly, when animals were clustered as good and bad performers, our data revealed that while in younger animals better cognitive performance was associated with longer dendritic trees and increased levels of synaptic markers in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, the opposite was found in the older group, in which better performance was associated with shorter dendrites and lower levels of synaptic markers. Additionally, in old, but not young individuals, worse performance correlated with increased levels of BDNF and the autophagy substrate p62, but decreased levels of the autophagy complex protein LC3. In summary, while for younger individuals “bigger is better”, “smaller is better” is a more appropriate aphorism for older subjects.
Graphene oxide nanosheet-supported Pt concave nanocubes with high-index facets for high-performance H2O2 sensing
Authors: Zhang Xinjin , Zheng Jianbin
Published: February 2019

The high-index facet Pt concave nanocube-decorated PVP-functional GO was synthesized, and the electrochemical performances were discussed.
Topochemical nitridation of Sr2FeMoO6
Authors: Ceravola Roberta , Frontera Carlos , Oró-Solé Judith , Black Ashley P. , Ritter Clemens , Mata Ignasi , Molins Elies , Fontcuberta Josep , Fuertes Amparo
Published: February 2019

The topotactic nitridation of cation ordered Sr2FeMoO6 in NH3 leads to cubic, Fm3̄m oxynitride Sr2FeMoO4.9N1.1 showing ferromagnetic order and negative magnetoresistance below 100 K.
A solid-supported arylboronic acid catalyst for direct amidation
Authors: Du Yihao , Barber Thomas , Lim Sol Ee , Rzepa Henry S. , Baxendale Ian R. , Whiting Andrew
Published: February 2019

An efficient heterogeneous amidation catalyst has been prepared by co-polymerisation of styrene, DVB with 4-styreneboronic acid, which shows wide substrate applicability and higher reactivity than the equivalent homogeneous phenylboronic acid, suggesting potential cooperative catalytic effects.
Graphene oxide membranes with narrow inter-sheet galleries for enhanced hydrogen separation
Authors: Ibrahim Amr F. M. , Banihashemi Fateme , Lin Y. S.
Published: February 2019

Brodie's GO sheets are prepared, characterized and compared to Hummers’ GO sheets. GO-B membranes are synthesized on polyester substrates using filtration. Permeability reduction of large gas molecules (CH4, N2 and CO2) is more significant compared to permeability reduction of small gas molecules (H2 and He). Pressure filtration enhances the packing density of GO-B sheets.
Robust and well-controlled TiO2–Al2O3 binary nanoarray-integrated ceramic honeycomb for efficient propane combustion
Authors: Xiong Juxia , Luo Zhu , Yang Ji , Guo Yanbing , Piyadasa Adimali , Wang Sibo , Hoang Son , Fang Yarong , Hu Siyu , Yang Weiwei , Deng Hongtao , Zhang Lizhi , Gao Pu-Xian
Published: February 2019

Well-tuned TiO2–Al2O3 binary nanoarrays had been fabricated onto ceramic honeycombs and exhibited excellent robustness and catalytic activity for propane oxidation.
Heterogeneous photocatalysts: an overview of classic and modern approaches for optical, electronic, and charge dynamics evaluation
Authors: Tan Hui Ling , Abdi Fatwa F. , Ng Yun Hau
Published: February 2019

This review summarizes current experimental techniques, including the conventional and the state-of-the-art tools, to examine the key aspects of photocatalysts.
Effect of environmental factors on the oxidative transformation of cephalosporin antibiotics by manganese dioxides
Authors: Hsu Ming-Hao , Kuo Ting-Hao , Wei-Po Lai Webber , Huang Ching-Hua , Hsu Cheng-Chih , Chen Yung-En , Lin Angela Yu-Chen
Published: February 2019

The δ-MnO2 oxidation of cephalosporin antibiotics can be affected by different environment factors (MnO2 loading, pH, metal ions, natural organic matter and sunlight).
The first comprehensive safety study of Magnéli phase titanium suboxides reveals no acute environmental hazard
Authors: Jemec Kokalj Anita , Novak Sara , Talaber Iva , Kononenko Veno , Bizjak Mali Lilijana , Vodovnik Maša , Žegura Bojana , Eleršek Tina , Kalčikova Gabriela , Žgajnar Gotvajn Andreja , Kralj Slavko , Makovec Darko , Caloudova Hana , Drobne Damjana
Published: February 2019

This study provides the first evidence that the tested Magnéli TiOx are not acutely hazardous.
Capacitive deionization using symmetric carbon electrode pairs
Authors: Gao X. , Omosebi A. , Ma Z. , Zhu F. , Landon J. , Ghorbanian M. , Kern N. , Liu K.
Published: February 2019

Scenarios (a)–(c) are created to study the effect of the chemical surface charge of carbon electrodes on capacitive deionization using symmetric carbon electrode pairs.
Cyclohexadienone core 3,6-di-tert-butylcarbazole decorated triazole bridged dendrimers: synthesis, photophysical and electrochemical properties and application as an additive in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Babu Janakiraman , Ganesan Shanmugam , Kumar Kaliamurthy Ashok , Karuppusamy Masiyappan , Pandurangan Arumugam , Rajakumar Perumal
Published: February 2019

An enhanced efficiency of 9.01% was realized for G2 dendrimer based DSSC.
Succinic acid-assisted stability enhancement of a colloidal organometal halide perovskite and its application as a fluorescent keypad lock
Authors: Bansal Parul , Kar Prasenjit
Published: February 2019

MAPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals were synthesized using bidentate succinic acid as a capping ligand for stable fluorescence.
Photocatalytic activity of ZrO2 composites with graphitic carbon nitride for hydrogen production under visible light
Authors: Ismael Mohammed , Wu Ying , Wark Michael
Published: February 2019

The synthesized ZrO2/g-C3N4 composites exhibit superior performance in water splitting for hydrogen production due to the effective electron–hole separation at the composite interface.
Stereoconfining macrocyclizations in the total synthesis of natural products
Authors: Zheng Kuan , Hong Ran
Published: February 2019

This review covers selected examples of point chirality-forming macrocyclizations in natural product total synthesis in the past three decades.
Stem cell-mediated delivery of nanogels loaded with ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticles for enhanced tumor MR imaging
Authors: Hao Xinxin , Xu Bei , Chen Huan , Wang Xiaomeng , Zhang Jiulong , Guo Rui , Shi Xiangyang , Cao Xueyan
Published: February 2019

Schematic illustration of AG/PEI-Fe3O4 and stem cell-mediated delivery of nanogels for enhanced breast or glioma tumor MR imaging.
Film based on magnesium impregnated biochar/cellulose acetate for phosphorus adsorption from aqueous solution
Authors: de Carvalho Eufrásio Pinto Marina , David da Silva Demetrius , Amorim Gomes Ana Luiza , Leite Victor dos Santos Azevedo , Fialho e Moraes Allan Robledo , Ferreira de Novais Roberto , Tronto Jairo , Pinto Frederico Garcia
Published: February 2019

New hybrid film formed by biopolymer cellulose acetate and biochar for P adsorption in aqueous solution.
High and intermediate temperature sodium–sulfur batteries for energy storage: development, challenges and perspectives
Authors: Nikiforidis Georgios , van de Sanden M. C. M. , Tsampas Michail N.
Published: February 2019

This comprehensive review focuses on the progress, prospects and challenges of the high and intermediate NaS secondary batteries (HT and IT NaS) as a whole.
Three-dimensional paper-based microfluidic electrochemical integrated devices (3D-PMED) for wearable electrochemical glucose detection
Authors: Cao Qingpeng , Liang Bo , Tu Tingting , Wei Jinwei , Fang Lu , Ye Xuesong
Published: February 2019

A three-dimensional paper-based microfluidic device (3D-PMED) has been developed for dynamic sweat metabolite monitoring with continuous sweat flow avoiding accumulation.
Product distribution and mechanism of the OH−initiated tropospheric degradation of three CFC replacement candidates: CH3CFCH2, (CF3)2CCH2and (E/Z)-CF3CFCHF
Authors: Rivela Cynthia B. , Tovar Carmen M. , Gibilisco Rodrigo , Teruel Mariano A. , Barnes Ian , Wiesen Peter , Blanco María B.
Published: February 2019

The OH initiated degradation of 2-fluoropropene, 3,3,3-trifluoro-2-(tri-fluoromethyl)propene and (E/Z)-1,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropene has been investigated using a 1080 L chamber at 298 K and 1000 mbar of air coupled within situFTIR spectroscopy.
A first-passage approach to the thermal breakage of a discrete one-dimensional chain
Authors: Razbin Mohammadhosein , Benetatos Panayotis , Moosavi-Movahedi Ali Akbar
Published: February 2019

Using the first passage method for a Markov process, we theoretically study the fragmentation rate of a discrete one-dimensional chain (Rouse model).
Simultaneous reduction of surface, bulk, and interface recombination for Au nanoparticle-embedded hematite nanorod photoanodes toward efficient water splitting
Authors: Wang Lei , Nakajima Tomohiko , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2019

A novel method to reduce surface, bulk, and interface recombination simultaneously.
Sr- and Co-doped LaGaO3−δ with high O2 and H2 yields in solar thermochemical water splitting
Authors: Chen Zhenpan , Jiang Qingqing , Cheng Feng , Tong Jinhui , Yang Min , Jiang Zongxuan , Li Can
Published: February 2019

Sr- and Co-doped perovskite oxides La1−xSrxGa1−yCoyO3−δ (LSGC) with controllable oxygen vancancy formation energy (EV) and oxygen vacancy concentration (−) are successfully developed to exhibit high O2 and H2 yields when reduced at 1350 °C and re-oxidized at optimized 400−1100 °C.
Ultrathin CoOxnanolayers derived from polyoxometalate for enhanced photoelectrochemical performance of hematite photoanodes
Authors: Cao Xiaohu , Wang Yifan , Lin Junqi , Ding Yong
Published: February 2019

A CoOxnanolayer derived from Co8POM by photodeposition effectively passivates the surface states of hematite, thereby improving the water oxidation kinetics.
Anionic defect engineering of transition metal oxides for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions
Authors: Zhu Yunmin , Liu Xi , Jin Shiguang , Chen Huijun , Lee Wonyoung , Liu Meilin , Chen Yan
Published: February 2019

Techniques for anionic defect engineering in transition metal oxides and mechanisms of how anion defects affect their oxygen reaction activities.
Human hair keratin for physically transient resistive switching memory devices
Authors: Lin Qiqi , Hao Shilei , Hu Wei , Wang Ming , Zang Zhigang , Zhu Linna , Du Juan , Tang Xiaosheng
Published: February 2019

A physically transient non-volatile memory device made of keratin exhibits great resistive switching performance.
Design for high energy storage density and temperature-insensitive lead-free antiferroelectric ceramics
Authors: Luo Nengneng , Han Kai , Zhuo Fangping , Liu Laijun , Chen Xiyong , Peng Biaolin , Wang Xinpeng , Feng Qin , Wei Yuezhou
Published: February 2019

High energy density was achieved by designing a AgNbO3 based lead-free system.
A label-free colorimetric strategy for facile and low-cost sensing of ascorbic acid using MnO2 nanosheets
Authors: Chen Ping , Zhong Hui , Wang Xiang , Shao Changdong , Zhi Sanjun , Li Xiao-Rong , Wei Changmei
Published: February 2019

A facile and sensitive colorimetric method for determining ascorbic acid (AA) was established using MnO2 nanosheets. Addition of AA to the sensor system caused the transformation of solution color from brown to colorless.
A single crystal study of CPO-27 and UTSA-74 for nitric oxide storage and release
Authors: Henkelis Susan E. , Vornholt Simon M. , Cordes David B. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Wheatley Paul S. , Morris Russell E.
Published: February 2019

Single crystal CPO-27-Mg, -Zn and its structural isomer UTSA-74 have been prepared through use of acid modulators; salicylic acid and benzoic acid, respectively.
Mechanistic insights into a NOx storage-reduction (NSR) catalyst by spatiotemporal operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Nagai Yasutaka , Kato Akihiko , Iwasaki Masaoki , Kishita Keisuke
Published: February 2019

Monitoring the catalytically active state and online mass spectra clarified the fast transient phenomena occurring inside a NSR catalyst.
New insights into interfacial photocharge transfer in TiO2/C3N4 heterostructures: effects of facets and defects
Authors: Wu Yuxuan , Liu Li-Min , An Xiaoqiang , Wei Tingcha
Published: February 2019

The interfacial transfer mechanism of charge carriers in TiO2/g-C3N4 heterostructures was highly dependent on crystal facets and structural defects.
Correction: Polyampholytic graft copolymers based on polydehydroalanine (PDha) – synthesis, solution behavior and application as dispersants for carbon nanotubes
Authors: Max J. B. , Pergushov D. V. , Sigolaeva L. V. , Schacher F. H.
Published: February 2019

Correction for ‘Polyampholytic graft copolymers based on polydehydroalanine (PDha) – synthesis, solution behavior and application as dispersants for carbon nanotubes’ by J. B. Max et al., Polym. Chem., 2019, DOI: 10.1039/c8py01390j.
Binding low crystalline MoS2 nanoflakes on nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube: towards high-rate lithium and sodium storage
Authors: Wu Tianjing , Jing Mingjun , Liu Yong , Ji Xiaobo
Published: February 2019

Low crystal MoS2 nanoflakes embedded on N-doping CNT has been prepared via alternating current and hydrothermal technique, demonstrating superior rate behavior for LIBs and SIBs.
Nanoporous high-entropy alloys for highly stable and efficient catalysts
Authors: Qiu Hua-Jun , Fang Gang , Wen Yuren , Liu Pan , Xie Guoqiang , Liu Xingjun , Sun Shuhui
Published: February 2019

A general dealloying strategy is developed to prepare multi-component alloys with high thermal stability, electrochemical durability, and catalytic activity.
Recent developments in stimuli-responsive luminescent films
Authors: Gao Rui , Fang Xiaoyu , Yan Dongpeng
Published: February 2019

Luminescent films have attracted a great amount of attention due to their unique properties and various potential applications in optical displays, sensors and switches.
STK33/ERK2 signal pathway contribute the tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer HCT15 cells
Authors: Zhang Shengjun , Wu Haoyu , Wang Kaiyu , Liu Minli
Published: February 2019

Serine/threonine kinase 33 (STK33) is a serine/threonine kinase and participates in many apoptotic process. Herein, we found that the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2) was a substrate of STK33. STK33 phosphorylated ERK2 and increased the activity of ERK2 and promote the tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer HCT15 cells. Clinical simple showed that STK33 was highly expression in colorectal cells and tissues. Ex vivo and in vivo studies demonstrated that STK33 accelerate tumorigenic properties in NCM460 cells and athymic nude rats. In vitro kinase assay results indicated that STK33 can phosphorylate ERK2. Ex vivo studies further showed that STK33 can bind with ERK2 and take part in the regulation of ERKs signaling pathway. In short, our results showed that STK33 is a novel upstream kinase of ERK2. It may provide a better prospect for STK33 based prevention and treatment for colorectal cancer patients.
MKP2 suppresses TGF-β1-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition through JNK inhibition
Authors: Loeffler Ivonne
Published: February 2019

Interstitial fibrosis is a typical feature of end-stage renal diseases, regardless of the initial cause of kidney injury. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a mechanism that is thought to play a role in generating the interstitial matrix-producing myofibroblasts and is prominently induced by the transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β1). TGF-β1 signals through a variety of Smad and non-Smad signaling pathways, including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. In a study published in a recent issue of Clinical Science (Clin. Sci. (2018) 132(21),2339–2355), Li et al. investigated the potential role of the Mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 2 (MKP2), also known as Dusp4, in the control of EMT and renal fibrosis. Based on results obtained with an animal model of kidney fibrosis and a proximal tubular epithelial cell line system, the authors put forward a role for MKP2 as a negative feedback regulator of TGF-β1-induced EMT and fibrosis in the kidney. Intriguingly, MKP2 is found to down-regulate activity of c-Jun, but not that of other MAPKs, extracellular signal-regulated kinases or p38, implying a role for c-Jun N-terminal kinase-dependent signaling in renal fibrosis. In this commentary, I discuss the findings of Li and co-workers in the context of the recent literature placing a focus on potential clinical/therapeutic implications.
The Belgian repository of fundamental atomic data and stellar spectra (BRASS)
Authors: Laverick M. , Lobel A. , Royer P. , Merle T. , Martayan C. , van Hoof P. A. M. , Van der Swaelmen M. , David M. , Hensberge H. , Thienpont E.
Published: February 2019

Context. Fundamental atomic transition parameters, such as oscillator strengths and rest wavelengths, play a key role in modelling and understanding the chemical composition of stars in the universe. Despite the significant work under way to produce these parameters for many astrophysically important ions, uncertainties in these parameters remain large and can limit the accuracy of chemical abundance determinations.

Aims. The Belgian repository of fundamental atomic data and stellar spectra (BRASS) aims to provide a large systematic and homogeneous quality assessment of the atomic data available for quantitative spectroscopy. BRASS shall compare synthetic spectra against extremely high-quality observed spectra, at a resolution of ∼85 000 and signal-noise ratios of ∼1000, for approximately 20 bright BAFGK spectral-type stars, in order to critically evaluate the atomic data available for over a thousand potentially useful spectral lines.

Methods. A large-scale homogeneous selection of atomic lines is performed by synthesising theoretical spectra of literature atomic lines for FGK-type stars including the Sun, resulting in a selection of 1091 theoretically deep and unblended lines in the wavelength range 4200–6800 Å, which may be suitable for quality assessment. Astrophysical log(g f) values are determined for the 1091 transitions using two commonly employed methods. The agreement of these log(g f) values are used to select well-behaved lines for quality assessment.

Results. We found 845 atomic lines to be suitable for quality assessment, of which 408 were found to be robust against systematic differences between analysis methods. Around 53% of the quality-assessed lines were found to have at least one literature log(g f) value in agreement with our derived values, though the remaining values can disagree by as much as 0.5 dex. Only ∼38% of Fe Ilines were found to have sufficiently accurate log(g f) values, increasing to ∼70–75% for the remaining Fe-group lines.
Herschel water maps towards the vicinity of the black hole Sgr A*
Authors: Armijos-Abendaño J. , Martín-Pintado J. , Requena-Torres M. A. , González-Alfonso E. , Güsten R. , Weiß A. , Harris A. I. , Israel F. P. , Kramer C. , Stutzki J. , van der Werf P.
Published: February 2019

Aims. We study the spatial distribution and kinematics of water emission in a ~8 × 8 pc2 region of the Galactic center (GC) that covers the main molecular features around the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*). We also analyze the water excitation to derive the physical conditions and water abundances in the circumnuclear disk (CND) and the “quiescent clouds”.

Methods. We presented the integrated line intensity maps of the ortho 110 − 101, and para 202 − 111 and 111 − 000 water transitions observed using the On the Fly mapping mode with the Heterodyne Instrument for the Far Infrared (HIFI) on board Herschel. To study the water excitation, we used HIFI observations of the ground state ortho and para H218O transitions toward three selected positions in the vicinity of Sgr A*. In our study, we also used dust continuum measurements of the CND, obtained with the Spectral and Photometric Imaging REceiver (SPIRE) instrument. Using a non-local thermodynamical equilibrium (LTE) radiative transfer code, the water line profiles and dust continuum were modeled, deriving H2O abundances (XH2O), turbulent velocities (V t), and dust temperatures (Td). We also used a rotating ring model to reproduce the CND kinematics represented by the position velocity (PV) diagram derived from para 202 − 111 H2O lines.

Results. In our H2O maps we identify the emission associated with known features around Sgr A*: CND, the Western Streamer, and the 20 and 50 km s−1 clouds. The ground-state ortho water maps show absorption structures in the velocity range of [−220,10] km s−1 associated with foreground sources. The PV diagram reveals that the 202 − 111 H2O emission traces the CND also observed in other high-dipole molecules such as SiO, HCN, and CN. Using the non-LTE code, we derive high XH2O of ~(0.1–1.3) × 10−5, V t of 14–23 km s−1 , and Td of 15–45 K for the CND, and the lower XH2O of 4 × 10−8 and V t of 9 km s−1 for the 20 km s−1 cloud. Collisional excitation and dust effects are responsible for the water excitation in the southwest lobe of the CND and the 20 km s−1 cloud, whereas only collisions can account for the water excitation in the northeast lobe of the CND. We propose that the water vapor in the CND is produced by grain sputtering by shocks of 10–20 km s−1, with some contribution of high temperature and cosmic-ray chemistries plus a photon-dominated region chemistry, whereas the low XH2O derived for the 20 km s−1 cloud could be partially a consequence of the water freeze-out on grains.
The CARMENES search for exoplanets around M dwarfs
Authors: Hintz D. , Fuhrmeister B. , Czesla S. , Schmitt J. H. M. M. , Johnson E. N. , Schweitzer A. , Caballero J. A. , Zechmeister M. , Jeffers S. V. , Reiners A. , Ribas I. , Amado P. J. , Quirrenbach A. , Anglada-Escudé G. , Bauer F. F. , Béjar V. J. S. , Cortés-Contreras M. , Dreizler S. , Galadí-Enríquez D. , Guenther E. W. , Hauschildt P. H. , Kaminski A. , Kürster M. , Lafarga M. , López del Fresno M. , Montes D. , Morales J. C. , Passegger V. M. , Seifert W.
Published: February 2019

Chromospheric modeling of observed differences in stellar activity lines is imperative to fully understand the upper atmospheres of late-type stars. We present one-dimensional parametrized chromosphere models computed with the atmosphere code PHOENIX using an underlying photosphere of 3500 K. The aim of this work is to model chromospheric lines of a sample of 50 M2–3 dwarfs observed in the framework of the CARMENES, the Calar Alto high-Resolution search for M dwarfs with Exo-earths with Near-infrared and optical Echelle Spectrographs, exoplanet survey. The spectral comparison between observed data and models is performed in the chromospheric lines of Na I D2, Hα, and the bluest Ca II infrared triplet line to obtain best-fit models for each star in the sample. We find that for inactive stars a single model with a VAL C-like temperature structure is sufficient to describe simultaneously all three lines adequately. Active stars are rather modeled by a combination of an inactive and an active model, also giving the filling factors of inactive and active regions. Moreover, the fitting of linear combinations on variable stars yields relationships between filling factors and activity states, indicating that more active phases are coupled to a larger portion of active regions on the surface of the star.
Comment on “Hubble flow variations as a test for inhomogeneous cosmology”
Authors: Wiltshire David L.
Published: February 2019

Saulder et al. (2019, A&A, 622, A83) have performed a novel observational test of the local expansion of the Universe for the standard cosmology as compared to an alternative model with differential cosmic expansion. Their analysis employs mock galaxy samples from the Millennium Simulation, a Newtonian N–body simulation on a ΛCDM background. For the differential expansion case the simulation has been deformed in an attempt to incorporate features of a particular inhomogeneous cosmology: the timescape model. It is shown that key geometrical features of the timescape cosmology have been omitted in this rescaling. Consequently, the differential expansion model tested by Saulder et al. (2019) cannot be considered to approximate the timescape cosmology.
Risiko Impfen?
Authors: Kowalzik Frank , Zepp Fred
Published: February 2019

Skepticism about vaccination is not new, but the perception of vaccine-related risks has changed in recent decades. In addition to aspects such as knowledge about vaccines, trust in medical care structures and political institutions, socio-economic, cultural and religious views also play an important role. These factors differ significantly worldwide and regionally. In almost all surveys, confidence in vaccines and/or the healthcare system is identified as essential for a positive vaccination decision. Confidence in vaccines correlates with the assessment of the specific individual disease risk and the potential side effects of the vaccines. Subjective perception of risk seldom corresponds to objectively measurable facts. Rather, it is distorted by individual perception in both directions (underestimation and overestimation). Transparent, science-based communication is helpful in promoting and maintaining trust in healthcare. Pediatricians and family physicians are the most important confidants for parents on questions about health care and vaccination recommendations.
Adhärenz von Hebammensprechstunden – eine quantitative Dokumentenanalyse
Authors: Siegle Anja , Sayn-Wittgenstein Friederike , Roes Martina
Published: February 2019

Hintergrund Geburtshilfliche Interventionen nehmen weltweit zu, auch in Deutschland. Um deren Zahl zu reduzieren entstehen verschiedene Ansätze zur Förderung der normalen Geburt, so auch der deutsche „Expertinnenstandard Förderung der physiologischen Geburt“. Unter anderem wird darin eine Hebammensprechstunde gefordert. Inwieweit Hebammensprechstunden in Einrichtungen, die den Expertinnenstandard eingeführt haben, implementiert sind und ob sie in ihrer Ausgestaltung den Empfehlungen, so wie sie von den Entwicklerinnen intendiert waren (Adhärenz), folgen, ist bisher nicht bekannt. Ziel dieser Studie ist es, Analysemerkmale für die Hebammensprechstunde zu entwickeln, die Zielgruppe und Inhalte zu identifizieren und die Adhärenz zu untersuchen.

Methode Eine Delphi-Befragung zur Entwicklung von Analysemerkmalen mit 3 Entwicklerinnen und eine quantitative Dokumentenanalyse der Dokumente der Hebammensprechstunden zweier Krankenhäuser wurde durchgeführt (Krankenhaus 1: n=92; Krankenhaus 2: n=62).

Ergebnisse Sechs Merkmale (Dokumentation von „Sorgen und Ängste“, „Absprachen“, „Beratungsthemen“, „Themen, die besprochen wurden“, „Nachvollziehbarkeit der Möglichkeiten der Geburtsplanung“ und „Optionen der Geburtsplanung) wurden aus dem Expertinnenstandard identifiziert. Vor allem Erstgebärende (77,2%) nehmen die Hebammensprechstunde in Anspruch. Es zeigt sich ein breites Spektrum an Themen, die im Rahmen der Hebammensprechstunde angesprochen werden. Die Dokumente von Krankenhaus 2 belegen eine hohe Adhärenz, während die Dokumente von Krankenhaus 1 eine mittlere Adhärenz zeigen.

Schlussfolgerungen Die Untersuchung der Adhärenz ermöglicht es Krankenhäusern, die Hebammensprechstunde auf ihre Umsetzung hin einzuschätzen. Auf Grundlage der hier vorgestellten Analyse können Anpassungen, z. B. an der Dokumentenstruktur oder den Beratungsinhalten vorgenommen werden. Im Kontext der Hebammensprechstunde besteht weiterer Forschungsbedarf zu den Implementierungsprozessen, um vorhandene Unterschiede in der Adhärenz besser zu erklären.
Congenital Hypopituitarism: Various Genes, Various Phenotypes
Authors: Xatzipsalti Maria , Voutetakis Antonis , Stamoyannou Lela , Chrousos George , Kanaka-Gantenbein Christina
Published: February 2019

The ontogenesis and development of the pituitary gland is a highly complex process that depends on a cascade of transcription factors and signaling molecules. Spontaneous mutations and transgenic murine models have demonstrated a role for many of these factors, including HESX1, PROP1, PIT1, LHX3, LHX4, SOX2, SOX3, OTX2, PAX6, FGFR1, SHH, GLI2, and FGF8 in the etiology of congenital hypopituitarism. Genetic mutations in any of these factors can lead to congenital hypopituitarism, which is characterized by the deficiency in one or more pituitary hormones. The phenotype can be highly variable, consisting of isolated hypopituitarism or more complex disorders. The same phenotype can be attributed to different gene mutations; while a given gene mutation can induce different phenotypes. This review highlights the genetic variations that lead to congenital hypopituitarism and their associated defects. The overall incidence of mutations in known transcription factors in patients with hypopituitarism is low; therefore many gene mutations or even gene- epigenetic interactions have to be unraveled in the future to explain the vast majority of still unclear cases of congenital hypopituitarism.
Copper-Catalysed Hydroamination of N-Allenylsulfonamides: The Key Role of Ancillary Coordinating Groups
Authors: Blieck Rémi , Perego Luca , Ciofini Ilaria , Grimaud Laurence , Taillefer Marc , Monnier Florian
Published: February 2019

A copper-catalysed hydroamination reaction of N-allenylsulfonamides with amines has been developed through a rational approach based on mechanistic studies. The reaction is promoted by a simple copper(I) catalyst and proceeds at room temperature with complete regioselectivity and excellent stereoselectivity towards linear (E)-N-(3-aminoprop-1-enyl)sulfonamides. Density Functional Theory (DFT) studies allow interpreting the key role of unsaturated substituents on nitrogen as ancillary coordinating moieties for the copper catalyst.
Iodine-Mediated Multicomponent Synthesis of 3-Sulfenylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridines from 2-Aminopyridines, Ketones, and Sulfonyl Hydrazides
Authors: Ren Hongjun , Chen Zhengkai , Hu Sipei , Du Shiying , Yao Yunjie , Yang Zuguang
Published: February 2019

A one-pot multicomponent reaction for the synthesis of 3-sulfenylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridines from readily available 2-aminopyridines, ketones, and sulfonyl hydrazides, mediated by molecular iodine, has been developed. The transformations proceed smoothly with high efficiency and a broad substrate scope, affording the desired heterocyclic products in moderate to excellent yields.
A General Synthesis of 7-Phenyl-7,13-dihydro-8H-benzo[6,7]azepino[3,2-c]quinolin-8-ones
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Dobrowolski Jeremy , Nguyen Duyen , Fraser Benjamin , Bhadbhade Mohan , Black David
Published: February 2019

Complex benzazepinoquinolone scaffolds can be accessed from the reaction of 2-aminoacetophenones and oxindole derivatives and feature the seven-membered azepine ring moiety commonly found in a range of drug molecules. The described reaction is generally applicable and allows for rapid access to a diverse range of new structures with further potential to build more elaborate molecules.
Isopathic Use of Auto-Sarcode of DNA as Anti-Miasmatic Homeopathic Medicine and Modulator of Gene Expression?
Authors: Teixeira Marcus
Published: February 2019

Introduction In addition to the four pillars of homeopathy, vitalism and the miasmatic theory are often used to explain the health–disease process. According to Hahnemann's concepts, homeopathic miasms are the main obstacle to the cure of chronic diseases, with psora being the fundamental cause of all forms of diseases. According to modern genetics, the disease-promoting epigenetic alterations are the fundamental cause of the manifestation of chronic diseases.

Objective This article develops a philosophical–scientific correlation between chronic miasms and disease-promoting epigenetic modifications, aiming to justify the isopathic use of auto-sarcode of an individual's DNA as homeopathic medicine.

Results Based on the study of homeopathic doctrine and epigenetics, a conceptual and functional correlation is observed between homeopathic chronic miasms and disease-promoting epigenetic modifications. Additionally, several experimental studies suggest that homeopathy's mechanism of action may be by modulating gene expression.

Conclusions By the philosophical–scientific correlations described, it is inferred that disease-promoting epigenetic alterations are the biological representation of the chronic miasms, suggesting the isopathic use of auto-sarcode of DNA as homeopathic therapeutic modulator of gene expression for the management of chronic diseases.
Neurotologic Complications Following Microvascular Decompression: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Bartindale Matthew , Mohamed Ayah , Bell Jason , Kircher Matthew , Hill Jacqueline , Anderson Douglas , Leonetti John
Published: February 2019

Objective The main purpose of this article is to determine the frequency of neurotologic complications after posterior fossa microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery.

Design Retrospective case review.

Setting Tertiary care referral center.

Participants A total of 215 consecutive MVD operations by a single surgeon between March 1996 and May 2016 were reviewed with 192 surgeries on 183 patients meeting inclusion criteria.

Main Outcome Measures Neurotologic complications secondary to MVD.

Results The 52 males and 131 females had a mean age of 58.52 years (range, 28–92 years). Indications for MVD were trigeminal neuralgia (n = 162), hemifacial spasm (n = 23), glossopharyngeal neuralgia (n = 13), vagal palsy (n = 1), and tinnitus (n = 1). The outcomes examined were postoperative hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, and hemifacial paresis. At least one of these complications was present in 17.7% of patients. There were 4.17% with permanent hearing loss, 6.77% with transient hearing loss, 5.21% with tinnitus, 5.73% with vertigo, and 0.52% with hemifacial paresis. There was no significant difference in complication rates based on surgical indication.

Conclusions Neurotologic complications are a significant risk when performing MVD. It is important for otolaryngologists as well as neurosurgeons to be aware of such complications. We recommend perioperative audiometry in all patients undergoing MVD and believe there is utility in routine otolaryngologist involvement.
Bony Fixation of the Nasal Framework
Authors: Hacker Stefan , Mann Steven , Gubisch Wolfgang , Haack Sebastian
Published: February 2019

The importance of a straight and stable central framework is beyond dispute. Many authors allude to technical aspects how to achieve the above-mentioned requirements. Far less is said about the contact zones of the framework and how to achieve a long-lasting and solid fixation. In the authors' patient group, they found the need to work on the septum/the central framework in approximately 84% of the cases. In 61% of the patients, the authors had to operate on the fixation point. Of course, there is a great variety of anatomical findings. So the required techniques differ immensely. The surgeon must be prepared for all kinds of different situations. Especially the dorsal fixation and the anchoring on the maxilla without having a standard anterior nasal spine can be a great challenge. In their daily routine, suture techniques (e.g., the transcutaneous transosseous cerclage suture) have become the authors' working horse for these complex fixation situations.
The Posterolateral Corner-Locked Technique Is Applicable in a Chinese Population Regarding the Tibial Component Rotation Alignment in Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Fang Chao-Hua , Cheng Cheng-Kung , Qu Tie-Bing , Zhang Jun-Hui , Zhang Bo , Hua Qun , Yan Shi-Gui
Published: February 2019

Rotational malalignment between the femoral and tibial components in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can affect clinical outcomes, but there is no consensus on how to best determine tibia tray orientation. The posterolateral corner-locked (PLCL) technique may be a new method. This study aims to assess the applicability of this technique in a Chinese population. Forty normal Chinese volunteers were recruited and underwent computed tomography (CT) of the lower limbs. Knee model reconstructions and simulated standard tibial osteotomy were conducted digitally. The transepicondylar axis (TEA), the Akagi line, and the line connecting the medial third of the tibial tubercle with the midpoint of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) were projected to the tibial cross-section and marked. The PLCL technique was applied using either symmetrical or asymmetrical tibial tray templates, and the anteroposterior (AP) axis of the tibial tray was marked. The angles between the TEA and these lines were calculated, and the statistical differences were analyzed. The angle between the TEA and the Akagi line and between the TEA and the line connecting the medial third of the tibial tubercle with the midpoint of the PCL were 96.90 ± 5.57 and 107.31 ± 5.95 degrees, respectively. The angles between the TEA and the AP axis of the symmetrical and the asymmetrical design tibial trays were 94.01 ± 4.21 and 96.65 ± 4.70 degrees, respectively. Except for the Akagi line and AP axis of the asymmetrical tibial tray, statistical differences were found between all lines (p < 0.05). The PLCL technique is principally suitable for Chinese patients requiring TKA when using the tibial component referred to in this study, although it may result in slight external rotation.
Microscopic characterisation of photodetectors used in the hadron calorimeter of the Compact Muon Solenoid experiment
Authors: Shukla R. A. , Achanta V. G. , De Barbaro P. , Dugad S. R. , Heering A. , Gupta S. K. , Mirza I. , Prabhu S. S. , Rumerio P.
Published: February 2019

The Hybrid Photodetector (HPD) is a hybrid unit with a single accelerating gap between a common photocathode and an array of PIN diodes. Customised HPDs with 19 channels were used to detect scintillation light from hadron calorimeter in the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment. In this paper, we present results on radiation damage studies carried out on the used HPDs in the outer hadron (HO) and the end-cap hadron (HE) calorimeter of the CMS experiment operating at CERN. The calorimeter is made of alternating layers of scintillating tiles and metals, such as brass or iron. The scintillating light was transmitted to the HPDs by means of optical fibres. Due to excessive exposure to scintillation light and ionising radiation during data taking at the Large Hadron Collider, the performance of the HPDs was expected to degrade significantly in the HE detector. Independent studies on radiation damage of these used photosensors were important to assess the degradation in the performance of the calorimeter. Microscopic scans of relative photon detection efficiencies for two HPDs (one each from HO and HE detector) were made using micron resolution optical scanner. The scanner was specially designed and built for microscopic characterisation of photosensors. Imprints of each fibre (∼1 mm in diameter) on the photocathode with varying damage within the same pixel of the HPD were observed. The localised damage of the photocathode was determined to vary with the amount of scintillation (or calibration) light transmitted by optical fibres to the HPD.