bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projecting the effects of climate change on Calanus finmarchicus distribution within the U.S. Northeast Continental Shelf
Authors: Grieve Brian D. , Hare Jon A. , Saba Vincent S.
Published: July 2017

Calanus finmarchicusis vital to pelagic ecosystems in the North Atlantic Ocean. Previous studies suggest the species is vulnerable to the effects of global warming, particularly on the Northeast U.S. Shelf, which is in the southern portion of its range. In this study, we evaluate an ensemble of six different downscaled climate models and a high-resolution global climate model, and create a generalized additive model (GAM) to examine how future changes in temperature and salinity could affect the distribution and density ofC.finmarchicus. By 2081–2100, we project averageC.finmarchicusdensity will decrease by as much as 50% under a high greenhouse gas emissions scenario. These decreases are particularly pronounced in the spring and summer in the Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank. When compared to a high-resolution global climate model, the ensemble showed a more uniform change throughout the Northeast U.S. Shelf, while the high-resolution model showed larger decreases in the Northeast Channel, Shelf Break, and Central Gulf of Maine.C.finmarchicusis an important link between primary production and higher trophic levels, and the decrease projected here could be detrimental to the North Atlantic Right Whale and a host of important fishery species.
Reduced expression of the murine HLA-G homolog Qa-2 is associated with malignancy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stemness in breast cancer cells
Authors: da Silva Istéfani L. , Montero-Montero Lucía , Martín-Villar Ester , Martin-Pérez Jorge , Sainz Bruno , Renart Jaime , Toscano Simões Renata , Soares Veloso Émerson , Salviano Teixeira Cláudia , de Oliveira Mônica C. , Ferreira Enio , Quintanilla Miguel
Published: July 2017

Qa-2 is believed to mediate a protective immune response against cancer; however, little is known about the role of Qa-2 in tumorigenesis. Here, we used 4T1 breast cancer cells to study the involvement of Qa-2 in tumor progression in a syngeneic host. Qa-2 expression was reduced duringin vivotumor growth and in cell lines derived from 4T1-induced tumors. Tumor-derived cells elicited an epithelial-mesenchymal transition associated with upregulation of Zeb1 and Twist1/2 and enhanced tumor initiating and invasive capacities. Furthermore, these cells showed increased stem characteristics, as demonstrated by upregulation of Hes1, Sox2 and Oct3/4, and enrichment of CD44high/CD24median/lowcells. Remarkably, Qa-2 cell-surface expression was excluded from the CD44high/CD24median/lowsubpopulation. Tumor-derived cells showed increased Src activity, and treatment of these cells with the Src kinase inhibitor PP2 enhanced Qa-2 but reduced Sox2 and CD44high/CD24median/lowexpression levels, suggesting that Src signaling, while positively associated with stemness, negatively regulates Qa-2 expression in breast cancer. Finally, overexpression of the Qa-2 family member Q7 on the cell surface slowed downin vivotumor growth and reduced the metastatic potential of 4T1 cells. These results suggest an anti-malignant role for Qa-2 in breast cancer development, which appears to be absent from cancer stem cells.
The Tnfaip8-PE complex is a novel upstream effector in the anti-autophagic action of insulin
Authors: Kim Ji-Soo , Park Jimin , Kim Mi-Sun , Ha Ji-Young , Jang Ye-Won , Shin Dong Hae , Son Jin H.
Published: July 2017

Defective hepatic autophagy is observed in obesity and diabetes, whereas autophagy is inhibited by insulin in hepatocytes. Insulin-induced anti-autophagy is mediated by non-canonical Gαi3 signaling via an unknown mechanism. Previously, we identified the anti-autophagic activity of Tnfaip8 via activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in the nervous system. Here, we demonstrate that insulin temporally induces Tnfaip8, which mediates the anti-autophagic action of insulin through formation of a novel ternary complex including Tnfaip8, phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and Gαi3. Specifically, an X-ray crystallographic study of Tnfaip8 from Mus musculus (mTnfaip8) at 2.03 Å together with LC-MS analyses reveals PE in the hydrophobic cavity. However, an mTnfaip8 mutant lacking PE does not interact with Gαi3, indicating that the PE component is critical for the anti-autophagic action of mTnfaip8 via interaction with Gαi3. Therefore, the mTnfaip8-PE complex may act as an essential upstream effector via ternary complex formation most likely with active Gαi3 during insulin-induced anti-autophagy.
Proteinuria Detected by Urine Dipstick Test as a Risk Factor for Atrial Fibrillation: A Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Lim Woo-Hyun , Choi Eue -Keun , Han Kyung-Do , Rhee Tae-Min , Lee Hyun-Jung , Lee So-Ryoung , Kang Si-Hyuck , Cha Myung-Jin , Oh Seil
Published: July 2017

Proteinuria is one of the well-known risk factors for cardiovascular disease. However the impact of proteinuria on the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) is unclear. In this study, we investigated the association between proteinuria detected using urine dipstick test and the risk of AF. A total of 18,201,275 individuals were analyzed, who had no prior AF and had received biennial health checkups provided by the National Health Insurance Service between 2005 and 2008 in Korea. Incidences of AF were ascertained through the end of 2015. During a mean follow-up of 9.6 years, a total of 324,764 (1.8%) developed AF (1.86 per 1,000 person-years). In Cox regression models, proteinuria was associated with an increased risk of AF: adjusted HR and 95% CI of AF occurrence were 1.13 (1.10–1.16), 1.34 (1.31–1.38), 1.53 (1.48–1.58), 1.82 (1.71–1.94), and 1.86 (1.61–2.16) in individuals with trace, 1+, 2+, 3+, and 4+ proteinuria, respectively, compared with those without proteinuria. The result was consistent even after additional adjustment for estimated glomerular filtration rate. In addition, the risk of AF further increased or decreased according to the follow-up dipstick test results. Thus, proteinuria measured with a dipstick test might be considered a potent risk factor for AF development.
Shapes of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis are associated with risk of recurrent lateral ankle sprains
Authors: Liu Qingjun , Lin Bin , Guo Zhimin , Ding Zhenqi , Lian Kejian , Lin Dasheng
Published: July 2017

Distal tibiofibular syndesmosis (DTS) has wide anatomic variability in depth of incisura fibularis and shape of tibial tubercles. We designed a 3-year prospective cohort study of 300 young physical training soldiers in an Army Physical Fitness School. Ankle computed tomography (CT) scans showed that 56% of the incisura fibularis were a “C” shape, 25% were a “1” shape, and 19% were a “Г” shape. Furthermore, we invited a randomly selected subcohort of 6 participants in each shape of DTS to undergo a three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning. The “1” shape group showed widest displacement range of the DTS in the y-axis, along with the range of motion (ROM) on the position more than 20° of the ankle dorsiflexion, inversion and eversion. During the 3-year study period, 23 participants experienced recurrent lateral ankle sprains. 7 cases of the incisura fibularis were “C” shape, 13 cases were “1” shape, and 3 cases were “Г” shape. The “1” shape showed highest risk among the three shapes in incident recurrent lateral ankle sprains. We propose that it is possible to classify shapes of DTS according to the shapes of incisura fibularis, and people with “1” shape may have more risk of recurrent lateral ankle sprains.
Sustained efficacy of closed loop electrical stimulation for long-term treatment of absence epilepsy in rats
Authors: Kozák Gábor , Berényi Antal
Published: July 2017

Closed-loop brain stimulation is a promising alternative to treat drug-resistant epilepsies. In contrast to optogenetic interventions, transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) does not require cellular modification of neurons to be effective, and it is less invasive compared to deep brain stimulation. Furthermore, on-demand TES of targeted brain regions allows the potential for normal function of these networks during interictal periods, a possibility that is eliminated by resective surgical treatment approaches. To further explore the translation of closed-loop TES for treatment of epilepsy, we show here for the first time that unsupervised closed-loop TES in rats can consistently interrupt seizures for 6 weeks and has the potential to control seizure activity up to 4 months (longest periods examined). On-demand TES significantly reduced the time spent in seizure and the individual seizure duration, although significantly higher seizure rate was observed during the treatment. The 6 week long stimulation had no residual adverse effects on the electrophysiologic characteristics of the brain after the termination of the treatment and did not induce glial remodelling in the brain. Our findings demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of minimally invasive, potentially lifelong TES treatment of epilepsy either alone or as a complement to drug treatments.
Clinical Antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Strains with Higher Susceptibility to Environmental Phages than Antibiotic-sensitive Strains
Authors: Chen Li-Kuang , Kuo Shu-Chen , Chang Kai-Chih , Cheng Chieh-Chen , Yu Pei-Ying , Chang Chih-Hui , Chen Tren-Yi , Tseng Chun-Chieh
Published: July 2017

Antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii is associated with nosocomial infections worldwide. Here, we used clinically isolated A. baumannii strains as models to demonstrate whether antibiotic resistance is correlated with an increased susceptibility to bacteriophages. In this study, 24 active phages capable of infecting A. baumannii were isolated from various environments, and the susceptibilities of both antibiotic-sensitive and antibiotic-resistant strains of A. baumannii to different phages were compared. In our study, a total of 403 clinically isolated A. baumannii strains were identified. On average, the phage infection percentage of the antibiotic-resistant A. baumannii strains was 84% (from 81–86%), whereas the infection percentage in the antibiotic-sensitive A. baumannii strains was only 56.5% (from 49–64%). In addition, the risk of phage infection for A. baumannii was significantly increased in the strains that were resistant to at least four antibiotics and exhibited a dose-dependent response (p-trend < 0.0001). Among all of the A. baumannii isolates, 75.6% were phage typeable. The results of phage typing might also reveal the antibiotic-resistant profiles of clinical A. baumannii strains. In conclusion, phage susceptibility represents an evolutionary trade-off in A. baumannii strains that show adaptations for antibiotic resistance, particularly in medical environments that have high antibiotic use.
Decelerated neurodegeneration after intravitreal injection of α-synuclein antibodies in a glaucoma animal model
Authors: Teister J. , Anders F. , Beck S. , Funke S. , von Pein H. , Prokosch V. , Pfeiffer N. , Grus F.
Published: July 2017

Although elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) remains the major risk factor in glaucoma, neurodegenerative processes continue despite effective IOP lowering. Altered α-synuclein antibody (Abs) levels have been reported to play a crucial role. This study aimed at identifying whether α-synuclein Abs are capable to decelerate neuronal decay while providing insights into proteomic changes. Four groups of Sprague Dawley rats received episcleral vein occlusion: (1) CTRL, no intravitreal injection, n = 6, (2) CTRL IgG, intravitreal injection of unspecific IgG, n = 5, (3) Buffer, intravitreal injection of buffer, n = 6, (4), α-synuclein Ab, intravitreal injection of α-synuclein Ab, n = 5. IOP and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) were monitored and immunohistochemistry, microarray and proteomic analysis were performed. RNFLT was reduced in CTRL, CTRL IgG and Buffer group (all p < 0.01) and α-synuclein Ab group (p = 0.17). Axon and RGC density showed an increased neurodegeneration in CTRL, CTRL IgG and Buffer group (all p < 0.01) and increased neuronal survival in α-synuclein Ab group (p = 0.38 and 0.06, respectively) compared with fellow eyes. Proteomic analysis revealed alterations of cofilin 1 and superoxide dismutase 1 expression. This data indicate that α-synuclein Ab might indirectly modulate the actin cytoskeleton organization and negatively regulate apoptotic processes via cofilin 1 and superoxide dismutase 1.
Inactivation Mechanism of Escherichia coli Induced by Slightly Acidic Electrolyzed Water
Authors: Ye Zhangying , Wang Shuo , Chen Tao , Gao Weishan , Zhu Songming , He Jinsong , Han Zhiying
Published: July 2017

Foodborne disease outbreak caused by food microbiological contamination is a serious public health problem. Slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW), a new ultra-high effect and wide-spectrum disinfectant that is colourless, odourless, and harmless to humans and the environment, is directly used on food surfaces in Japan and America. However, the underlying inactivation mechanism remains unknown. In this study, biochemical and cellular changes were observed to investigate the bactericidal mechanism of SAEW againstEscherichia coli(E. coli). The results indicated that SAEW with a pH of 6.40, an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of 910 mV, an available chlorine concentration (ACC) of 60 mg/L, and a volume ratio of 20:1, produced the most effective sterilization action. A fluorescence-based live-dead assay was further used to demonstrate the sterilized effect and the cell esterase activity damage caused by SAEW. During the observation period, within 10 min, the cell morphology changed, which was characterized by cell expansion, cell elongation and increased membrane permeability. Meanwhile, reactive oxygen substances (ROS) were released in the bacterial cells.E. coliinactivation and apoptosis induced by SAEW were observed. Our findings illustrate that the bactericidal effects of SAEW againstE. colioccurred through cellular and biochemical mechanisms of cell necrosis and apoptosis.
Achieving high strength and high ductility in metal matrix composites reinforced with a discontinuous three-dimensional graphene-like network
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Shi Chunsheng , Liu Enzuo , He Fang , Ma Liying , Li Qunying , Li Jiajun , Bacsa Wolfgang , Zhao Naiqin , He Chunnian
Published: July 2017

We demonstrate an innovative and effectivein situprocessing strategy for the fabrication of metal matrix composites reinforced with a discontinuous 3D graphene-like network.
Competitive multicomponent anion exchange adsorption of proteins at the single molecule level
Authors: Kisley Lydia , Patil Ujwal , Dhamane Sagar , Kourentzi Katerina , Tauzin Lawrence J. , Willson Richard C. , Landes Christy F.
Published: July 2017

Super-resolution imaging of multicomponent, competitive adsorption demonstrates that competitors block certain ligands from the analyte without changing analyte adsorption kinetics.
Rapid determination of the tumour stroma ratio in squamous cell carcinomas with desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS): a proof-of-concept demonstration
Authors: Woolman Michael , Tata Alessandra , Dara Delaram , Meens Jalna , D'Arcangelo Elisa , Perez Consuelo J. , Saiyara Prova Shamina , Bluemke Emma , Ginsberg Howard J. , Ifa Demian , McGuigan Alison , Ailles Laurie , Zarrine-Afsar Arash
Published: July 2017

Prognostic tumour stroma ratios from DESI-MS.
Coated triangular Ag nanoprisms as optical sensors: control of stability and spectral response with a thermo-responsive polymer
Authors: Elsner C. , Prager A. , Sobottka A. , Lotnyk A. , Abel B.
Published: July 2017

Thermo-responsive polymer coated triangular Ag nanoprisms as optical sensors.
Facile fabrication of an “off–on” photoelectrochemical aptasensor for kanamycin detection based on polypyrrole/CeO2
Authors: Lv Jiaxin , Lei Qin , Xiao Qiyou , Li Xiaomin , Huang Yujie , Li He
Published: July 2017

In this work, an “off–on” photoelectrochemical sensing strategy for the determination of trace kanamycin is proposed by using a kanamycin aptamer as the sensing unit, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and polypyrrole as the signal amplification unit and cerium dioxide as the photoelectric active material.
High enrichment and ultra-trace analysis of aflatoxins in edible oils by a modified hollow-fiber liquid-phase microextraction technique
Authors: Huang Siming , Chen Xiao , Wang Ying , Zhu Fang , Jiang Ruifen , Ouyang Gangfeng
Published: July 2017

An improved hollow-fiber liquid-phase microextraction approach with excellent purification and enrichment capabilities enabled the method have good potential for future ultra-trace analysis of AFTs.
Metal-free intermolecular cyclopropanation between alkenes and iodonium ylides mediated by PhI(OAc)2·Bu4NI
Authors: Tao Jason , Estrada Carl D. , Murphy Graham K.
Published: July 2017

A simple and highly effective synthesis of poly substituted cyclopropanes was developed. This metal-free intermolecular reaction between iodonium ylides and alkenes is mediated by PhI(OAc)2and Bu4NI.
Phosphorus dendrimers for nanomedicine
Authors: Caminade Anne-Marie
Published: July 2017

This feature article reviews the biological properties of phosphorus dendrimers, depending on their terminal functions.
Hydrogenated carbon nanotube-based spin caloritronics
Authors: Zeng Hong-Li , Guo Yan-Dong , Yan Xiao-Hong , Zhou Jie
Published: July 2017

The spin-Seebeck effect (SSE) in linearly hydrogenated carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is realized, where partial hydrogenation makes CNTs acquire magnetism. Moreover, an odd–even effect of the SSE is observed, and the even cases could be used as spin-Seebeck diodes, without the need for an electric field or gate voltage.
Mechanical properties and electronic structure of edge-doped graphene nanoribbons with F, O, and Cl atoms
Authors: Piriz Sebastián , Fernández-Werner Luciana , Pardo Helena , Jasen Paula , Faccio Ricardo , Mombrú Álvaro W.
Published: July 2017

In this study, we present the structural, electronic, and mechanical properties of edge-doped zigzag graphene nanoribbons (ZGNRs) doped with fluorine, oxygen, and chlorine atoms.
In- and Ga-based inorganic double perovskites with direct bandgaps for photovoltaic applications
Authors: Dai Jun , Ma Liang , Ju Minggang , Huang Jinsong , Zeng Xiao Cheng
Published: July 2017

Double perovskites in the form of A2B′B′′X6 (A = Cs, B′ = Cu, Ag, Au, B′′ = In, Ga, X = Cl, Br, I) are examined for photovoltaic applications. Only Cs2AgInBr6 is predicted to be thermodynamically stable with a direct band gap in the range of 0.9–1.6 eV.
Fabrication of photoluminescent nc-Si:SiO2 thin films prepared by PLD
Authors: Dey Partha P. , Khare Alika
Published: July 2017

PLD nc-Si:SiO2 or SiOx(∼0.03–2.14) films with tunable band gaps (1.55–2.80 eV) exhibiting photoluminescence emissions originating from oxygen-related defects and QC nc-Si.
Shaping nanofiltration channels in a carbonaceous membrane via controlling the pyrolysis atmosphere
Authors: Xing Zheng , Ng Yeap Hung , Tay Siok-Wei , Oon Rachel Pek Har , Hong Liang
Published: July 2017

Pyrolysis of a comb-like copolymer towards formation of more disordered graphene species and small graphitic domains.
Design principles from multiscale simulations to predict nanostructure in self-assembling ionic liquids
Authors: Nebgen Benjamin T. , Magurudeniya Harsha D. , Kwock Kevin W. C. , Ringstrand Bryan S. , Ahmed Towfiq , Seifert Sönke , Zhu Jian-Xin , Tretiak Sergei , Firestone Millicent A.
Published: July 2017

Nanoscale MD simulations with the Effective Fragment Potential are performed on aqueous mixtures of dialkylimidazolium ILs paired with three anions, producing insights on ionic domain structure. Ionic domain structure is correlated to nanoscale structure as determined by SAXS.
Quantitative analysis of common elements in steel using a handheld μ-LIBS instrument
Authors: Afgan Muhammad Sher , Hou Zongyu , Wang Zhe
Published: July 2017

Quantitative analysis of steel by a handheld μ-LIBS device using dominant factor based PLS combined with standardization is presented and results are compared with conventional PLS and a handheld XRF device.
Novel nanosensing technologies for exosome detection and profiling
Authors: Im Hyungsoon , Lee Kyungheon , Weissleder Ralph , Lee Hakho , Castro Cesar M.
Published: July 2017

This article reviews recent advances of new assay platforms that are developed to facilitate molecular analyses of exosomes.
Evaluation of electrochemical performances of ZnFe2O4/γ-Fe2O3nanoparticles prepared by laser pyrolysis
Authors: Bourrioux Samantha , Wang Luyuan Paul , Rousseau Youri , Simon Pardis , Habert Aurélie , Leconte Yann , Sougrati Moulay Tahar , Stievano Lorenzo , Monconduit Laure , Xu Zhichuan J. , Srinivasan Madhavi , Pasturel Alain
Published: July 2017

ZnFe2O4/Fe2O3nanocomposites obtained by laser pyrolysis were evaluated for lithium-ion batteries application.
Influence of functional group of dye on the adsorption behaviour of CoFe2O4nano-hollow spheres
Authors: Rakshit Rupali , Khatun Esma , Pal Monalisa , Talukdar Souvanik , Mandal Dipika , Saha Priyanka , Mandal Kalyan
Published: July 2017

Excellent preferential dye adsorption of CoFe2O4nano-hollow spheres.
Dual application of synthesized SnO2nanoparticles in ion chromatography for sensitive fluorescence determination of ketoprofen in human serum, urine, and canal water samples
Authors: Muhammad Nadeem , Li Weixia , Subhani Qamar , Wang Fenglian , Zhao Yong-Gang , Zhu Yan
Published: July 2017

Systematic layout of dual application of SnO2NPs in ion chromatography for selective determination of non-fluorescent KP in complex samples.
Chemical-doping-driven crossover from graphene to “ordinary metal” in epitaxial graphene grown on SiC
Authors: Chuang Chiashain , Yang Yanfei , Pookpanratana Sujitra , Hacker Christina A. , Liang Chi-Te , Elmquist Randolph E.
Published: July 2017

Atmospheric chemical doping can be used to modify the electronic properties of graphene.
Graphene‐based multimode inspired frequency reconfigurable user terminal antenna for satellite communication
Authors: Kumar Jayendra , Basu Banani , A. Talukdar Fazal , Nandi Arnab
Published: July 2017

This study proposes a graphene conductive ink printed textile‐based microstrip antenna capable of switching between S‐band (3.03 GHz, mode) and C‐band (5.17 GHz, mode and 6.13 GHz, mode). The graphene conductive ink printed textile shows surface resistance of , conductivity of and excellent microstructural characteristics, which makes it suitable to be used as a metal sheet to fabricate the antenna structure. To overcome the low‐conductivity issue of graphene conductive ink, a multilayered substrate approach is utilised to improve radiation performances of the antenna. A peak realised gain of 2.09 dBi and radiation efficiency of 74% is achieved at the dominant mode (3.03 GHz). The frequency reconfigurability is introduced by exciting the higher order modes, and through two different feeding locations. The excitation of ports is controlled through a radio frequency (RF) pin diode switch integrated microstrip transmission line. Subsequently, the proposed structure is further designed using copper foil of thickness () and a comparative analysis of graphene‐based and copper‐based antennas is presented. The proposed antenna performs substantially well in terms of peak realised gain and radiation efficiency compared with that of the existing graphene‐based antenna and the performance deviation with respect to the copper based antenna is lowered significantly.
Analysis and evaluation of novel rotor permanent magnet flux‐switching machine for EV and HEV applications
Authors: Su Peng , Hua Wei , Zhang Gan , Chen Zhe , Cheng Ming
Published: July 2017

To relieve the serious saturation in stator teeth of stator‐permanent‐magnet flux‐switching (SPM‐FS) machines due to the co‐existence of magnets and armature windings in stator, this study proposes and analyses a novel rotor‐permanent magnet flux‐switching (RPM‐FS) brushless machine. Different from the conventional SPM‐FS machines, the magnets are removed from stator to rotor, and magnetised in a unique direction, resulting in a significant alleviation of stator tooth saturation level for the RPM‐FS machines. The concentrated armature windings are still wound around stator teeth with an even shorter end‐part winding length due to the absence of magnets. To evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of RPM‐FS machines, a comprehensive comparison between a RPM‐FS machine, a SPM‐FS machine, and an interior permanent magnet machine used in Toyota‐Prius 2004 hybrid electric vehicle, is conducted and the electromagnetic performances of three machines are investigated by finite element analysis. The predicted results indicate the proposed RPM‐FS machine exhibits the largest power density, greatest torque capability, highest efficiency under rated operation, and improved flux‐weakening ability. Therefore, the RPM‐FS machine is a promising candidate for EV and hybrid electric vehicles applications especially for direct driven systems where the superior overloaded performance is crucial.
Novel high step‐up dual switches converter with reduced power device voltage stress for distributed generation system
Authors: Li Fei , Liu Hongchen , Zhang Chengming , Wheeler Patrick
Published: July 2017

This study introduces a new dual switches converter with a high voltage gain and reduced power device voltage stress. Using a three‐winding coupled inductor and voltage multiplier, the proposed converter achieves a high step‐up voltage gain without a large duty cycle. However, unlike other converters with coupled inductor, the power device voltage stress in the proposed converter is dramatically reduced. The two clamped diodes not only alleviate the voltage spike across the metal–oxide–semiconductor field‐effect transistor (MOSFET), but also reduce the diode reverse recovery issue. The efficiency can be improved as circuit allows the use of low on‐resistance MOSFETs and Schottoky diodes in applications where this might not have been possible with conventional topologies. The basic operational principle and relevant theoretical analysis are presented in this study. Finally, practical results from a laboratory prototype are presented to verify the performance of the proposed converter.
Measurement uncertainty of the instantaneous characteristics of non‐linear coil obtained by Dommel's method
Authors: Milicevic Kruno , Biondic Ivan , Vulin Dragan
Published: July 2017

The characteristics of coil are obtained through the following measurement: the root mean square (RMS) coil current, as a function of RMS coil voltage, and the coil loss, as a function of RMS coil voltage. These values were then transformed, using Dommel's method, into instantaneous characteristics of non‐linear coil, in a form of a non‐linear inductance, representing saturation effect; in parallel with the non‐linear resistance representing coil loss. The instantaneous characteristics are composed of peak values of resistance current and voltage, and inductance current and flux. The uncertainties of the characteristics are defined through the uncertainty of the peak values. The uncertainty of instantaneous characteristics is calculated on an example of a coil realised as unloaded iron‐cored toroid transformer with a strip‐wounded core made of oriented transformer sheets (M5‐type) using the adaptive Monte‐Carlo method (MCM) and uncertainty framework of ‘Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement’ (GUM). Results reveal the peculiarities of both methods and the impact of the uncertainty of measured values on the uncertainty of instantaneous characteristics.
Railway track transmission line model: calculation of rail conductance by means of boundary element method
Authors: Lucca Giovanni
Published: July 2017

The study presents a novel method, based, on one hand on the transmission line model and on the other hand on boundary element method to calculate the per unit length conductances of a pair of conductively coupled rails by taking into account the presence of important elements of the track, such as sleepers and ballast. Basic premise to this study is that the rails can be represented as a distributed electrical circuit equivalent to a multi‐conductor transmission line carrying the transverse electric and magnetic mode. The analysis is done under DC hypothesis but it can be applied also to power frequencies. The results of the proposed calculation method have been compared with the data available in literature obtaining a fair agreement.
Klinik Unternehmen: Auf-/Absteiger des Monats
Authors: Schmidt Hartmut
Published: July 2017

Börsenexperte Hartmut Schmidt analysiert für kma die Jahresabschlüsse* ausgewählter Kliniken
Gastbeitrag Ulla Schmidt: Ist die PKV noch zeitgemäß?
Authors: Schmidt Ulla
Published: July 2017

Für die ehemalige Gesundheitsministerin Ulla Schmidt gibt es drei Baustellen in der Gesundheitspolitik: Die ressourcenfressende Sektorengrenze, das Nebeneinander von GKV und PKV sowie E-Health.
Gastbeitrag Dr. Josef Düllings: Notfallversorgung ist weit weg vom Patienten
Authors: Düllings Josef
Published: July 2017

Wie oft wird dieses Credo bemüht: „Der Patient muss im Mittelpunkt stehen“. Für die ambulante Notfallversorgung ist es eher eine Sonntagsrede. Wir haben als VKD schon 2013 auf die Missstände in der ambulanten Notfallversorgung hingewiesen – mittlerweile ist das Thema rauf und runter diskutiert.
Telemedizin: Diagnose per Online-Chat
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: July 2017

In der Schweiz können Patienten per Telemedizin-Videosprechstunde Kontakt zu Ärzten aufnehmen – dafür gibt es sogar eigene Versicherungstarife. In Deutschland geht das zwar auch, allerdings noch nicht bei der Erstbehandlung des Patienten. Dabei könnten Videosprechstunden laut Experten die überlaufenen Notambulanzen von Kliniken entlasten.
Verfügbarkeit rund um die Uhr: Uniklinikum Essen schützt kritische Infrastrukturen
Authors: Schauer Gaby
Published: July 2017

Mit dem neuen IT-Sicherheitsgesetz in Deutschland zählen Krankenhäuser ab 2017 zu den sogenannten „kritischen Infrastrukturen“ (KRITIS) im Bereich der medizinischen Versorgung und unterliegen besonderen Bestimmungen für die IT-Sicherheit. Die Universitätsmedizin Essen suchte daher nach einer leistungsfähigen und wirtschaftlichen Lösung für den Schutz ihrer virtuellen Infrastruktur.
ZSVA: Die Sterilisierung von Medizinprodukten
Authors: Mewis Dirk
Published: July 2017

Bei Problemen in der Zentralen Sterilgutaufbereitung und im Kampf gegen Krankenhausinfektionen unterstützen externe Dienstleister die Kliniken.
Gesundheitsökologie: Alles im grünen Bereich
Authors: Thalmayr Maria
Published: July 2017

Mit der Veranstaltung „Alles im grünen Bereich – Technik macht Gesundheitsökologie“ widmet sich die FKT am 20. und 21. September in Essen den vielfältigen Facetten der Klinikökologie. Das FKT- Umwelt-Event spannt einen weiten Bogen von der Vorbeugung stressbedingter Krankheiten über die umweltkonforme Entsorgung von Medikamenten bis hin zum Klimaschutz.
Assistenz- und Pflegehelferberufe: Im Labor der Pflegeausbildungen
Authors: Wenzel Kirsten
Published: July 2017

Schwester für alles, vom Blumengießen bis zur OP-Assistenz, das ist längst Vergangenheit. Die Anforderungen an examinierte Pflegekräfte wachsen stetig: Gemeinsam mit Pflege-Bachelors übernehmen sie heute vermehrt Führungsaufgaben und delegieren Aufgaben im Rahmen des Skill-Mix an Assistenzkräfte. Reibungslos läuft das bisher selten. Dass es auch anders gehen könnte, zeigt das Beispiel Stuttgart: Am Robert-Bosch-Krankenhaus werden zwei- und dreijährige Pflegekräfte von Anfang an zusammen ausgebildet.
Internationale Zusammenarbeit: WGKT und IFHE
Authors: Bender Christian
Published: July 2017

Die Wissenschaftliche Gesellschaft für Krankenhaustechnik „WGKT“ ist Mitglied der International Federation of Hospital Engineering „IFHE“ – und profitiert vom internationalen Netzwerk.
Intratympanic Gentamicin for Intractable Ménière's Disease – A Review and Analysis of Audiovestibular Impact
Authors: Yetişer Sertaç
Published: July 2017

Introduction Intratympanic gentamicin regulates the symptoms in most patients with incapacitating Ménière's disease. The treatment protocols have changed over the years from medical labyrinthectomy to preservation of vestibular function.

Objectives This study aims to review the audiovestibular response related to the effect of the drug in controlling vertigo.

Data Synthesis Articles were identified by means of a search in the PubMed database using the key words Meniere and intratympanic or transtympanic gentamicin. Total 144 articles were reviewed after excluding those that were technical reports, those based on experimental animal studies, those that focused on outcomes other than vertigo (tinnitus or aural fullness), those with delivery methods other than tympanic membrane injection, and those with bilateral cases. If there was more than one article by the same author(s) or institution, only the most recent one matching the aforementioned criteria and those that were not overlapping were included.

Conclusion Titration methods or multiple injections on a daily basis can be preferred if the patients have profound or non-serviceable hearing, since these methods have significant incidence of hearing loss. Treatment protocols with a frequency of injection not shorter than once a week, or those with injections on a monthly basis as “needed” provide the same level of vertigo control with better preservation of hearing. Caloric testing is not an ideal tool to analyze the correlation between vertigo control and the effect of gentamicin as compared with gain asymmetry of the vestibulo-ocular reflex. Vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials and the head thrust test are more reliable than other vestibular tests for the follow-up of patients undergoing gentamicin treatment.
Management of Injuries to the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament: A Review
Authors: Mistry Jaydev , Bonner Kevin , Gwam Chukwuweike , Thomas Melbin , Etcheson Jennifer , Delanois Ronald
Published: July 2017

The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is thought to be the most important medial structure providing restraint to lateral subluxation of the patella. After an initial patellar dislocation, the MPFL is frequently injured and can usually be treated with conservative measures. However, these patients often suffer from recurrent dislocations, which thereby necessitate operative intervention. In the setting of normal anatomy and kinematics, isolated reconstruction of the MPFL is an effective treatment for preventing recurrent dislocations. Various surgical techniques have been described, with differences in fixation and graft selection. The treatment of MPFL injuries should aim to provide patellar stabilization and restore normal kinematics throughout the joint. This review will discuss the following: (1) anatomy of the MPFL, (2) presentation and assessment of MPFL injuries, (3) management of patients with MPFL injuries, and (4) complications following MPFL reconstruction.
Approaches to Sedation in Pediatric Neuroimaging: What the Radiologist Should Know
Authors: Fawole Chiagozie , Webber Audra
Published: July 2017

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe and effective imaging technique that avoids exposure to ionizing radiation. The volume of pediatric MRI studies is increasing and with it the number of studies performed with sedation or anesthesia. When sedation or anesthesia are necessary for image acquisition there is an additional layer of complexity and the risks to the patient versus the benefits of imaging must be weighed. The purpose of this review is to describe sedation and anesthesia as it is utilized for MRI. Common techniques and inherent risks are discussed, as are recent controversies in and alternatives to sedation or anesthesia. The importance of collaboration and communication among providers is emphasized along with patient safety.
Neuroimaging of Fetal Infection
Authors: Ederies M. , Robinson Ashley
Published: July 2017

Infection during pregnancy is common and the developing fetal brain is vulnerable to vertical transmission due to immaturity of the fetal immune system. Infection is a major cause of multiple organ abnormalities, including the neuraxis, due to the neurotropism of the infectious agents. This review sets out to give an overview of fetal infection, review the general principles of the nature and timing of the infectious insult with respect to outcomes, review the neuroimaging of infection by ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and review the various pathogens involved, including the two most common, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Toxoplasma, and also other common viral and nonviral infections.
Umgang mit kognitiv beeinträchtigten, dialysepflichtigen Patienten
Authors: Freudenthal Anke
Published: July 2017

Der Umgang mit kognitiv beeinträchtigten Patienten, die dialysepflichtig sind, erfordert spezielle Kenntnisse und Fähigkeiten. Das Pflegepersonal sollte sich daher hierzu grundlegend informieren. Dieser Artikel stellt exemplarisch für das PHV-Dialysezentrum Bad Rothenfelde Tipps für Pflegekräfte, die im Altenheim und der Sozialstation, aber auch auf Dialysestationen arbeiten, bereit. Der Beitrag ist als Ergänzung zum Artikel „Nephrologische Pflege trifft geriatrische Pflege – Dialysepflichtige Heimbewohner mit kognitiven Veränderungen“ aus dem Jahr 2016 [1] zu sehen. Einzelne Beitragselemente beziehen sich u. U. nur auf die spezielle Situation im PHV-Dialysezentrum Bad Rothenfelde.
Jubiläum der Dialyse aktuell
Authors: Schäfer Christian
Published: July 2017

Wie Sie sicherlich schon über einen Blick auf die Titelseiten des Jahrgangs 2017 bemerkt haben, hat die
Dialyse aktuell
dieses Jahr einen runden Geburtstag. Es ist nun tatsächlich 20 Jahre her, seit die erste Ausgabe im Mai 1997 erschienen ist – damals noch im Conzema-Verlag, mit einem anderen inhaltlichen Konzept und in einem anders gestalteten Layout.
Stigmatisierung von erwerbstätigen Patienten mit Brust-, Darm-, Prostata- und Lungenkrebs
Authors: Ernst Jochen , Mehnert Anja , Taubenheim Sabine , Rentsch Anke , Hornemann Beate , Esser Peter
Published: July 2017

Hintergrund Die Stigmatisierung von Patienten mit Krebs kann weitreichende Folgen haben, sowohl für den einzelnen Betroffenen als auch für die Gesellschaft. Quantitative Untersuchungen zur Stigmatisierung von erwerbstätigen Patienten mit Krebs liegen bisher kaum vor. Ziel der vorliegenden Studie ist die Untersuchung der wahrgenommenen Stigmatisierung von Patienten mit Krebs in Abhängigkeit vom Erwerbsstatus sowie die Beeinflussung wahrgenommener Stigmatisierung durch soziodemografische, krankheits- und berufsbezogene Prädiktoren.

Methoden Im Rahmen einer bizentrischen Studie wurden 858 Patienten mit Brust-, Darm-, Lungen oder Prostatakrebs quantitativ befragt, von denen n=305 erwerbstätig waren und in die Auswertung eingingen (Altersdurchschnitt 55 Jahre, 43% weiblich, 47% Brustkrebs). Als Vergleichsgruppe wird aus unserem Datensatz ein gematchtes Sample nicht-Erwerbstätiger (n=213) herangezogen. Neben Fragen zu arbeits- und gesundheitsbezogenen Aspekten wurde Stigmatisierung mit dem SIS-D erfasst (Social Impact Scale). Die Daten werden uni- und multivariat ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse Erwerbstätige, v. a. Patienten mit Prostatakrebs und Brustkrebs, sind in nahezu allen Dimensionen weniger stigmatisiert (p<0,01) als nicht-Erwerbstätige, mit Effektstärken zwischen d=0,35–0,97. Den stärksten Einfluss auf die wahrgenommene Stigmatisierung hat das Merkmal geringe Unterstützung durch den Arbeitgeber, weitere Prädiktoren sind ein schlechter Gesundheitszustand, geringe psychische Arbeitsfähigkeit und Diagnose Brustkrebs (R2 des finalen Modells=0,35).

Schlussfolgerung Die Erwerbstätigkeit von Patienten mit Krebs steht im Zusammenhang mit geringerer wahrgenommener Stigmatisierung. Berufsbezogene Stigmatisierung ist v. a. vom Arbeitsumfeld bzw. der unterstützenden Einstellung des Arbeitgebers abhängig.
1500 Euro Preisgeld
Authors: Köhler Franka
Published: July 2017

Im Jahr 2017 werden die AfnP e. V. und die Dialyse aktuell zum elften Mal den Förderpreis Nephrologische Pflege vergeben. Das Preisgeld von 1500 Euro stiftet der Georg Thieme Verlag.
Die Freder1k-Studie – Typ-1-Diabetesrisiko früh erkennen
Authors: Hommel Angela
Published: July 2017

Der Typ-1-Diabetes wird durch eine immunvermittelte Zerstörung der insulinproduzierenden Betazellen des Pankreas hervorgerufen und ist die häufigste Stoffwechselerkrankung im Kindes- und Jugendalter. Die Inzidenzrate von Typ-1-Diabetes bei Kindern ist steigend. Heute ist eine frühzeitige Einschätzung des Erkrankungsrisikos ebenso wie eine frühzeitige Diagnose des Typ-1-Diabetes durch genetische und immunologische Tests möglich. Damit eröffnet sich die Möglichkeit, Komplikationen zu reduzieren und präventive Maßnahmen anzubieten. In der Freder1k-Studie werden Neugeborene daher begleitend zum regulären Neugeborenenscreening auf ein möglicherweise erhöhtes genetisches Risiko für Typ-1-Diabetes getestet. Um die Diagnose frühzeitig stellen zu können, werden bei Vorliegen eines erhöhten genetischen Risikos die Kinder bis zum 4. Lebensjahr über eine Inselautoantikörper-Testung im Alter von 6 Monaten, 2 und 4 Jahren nachuntersucht. Dabei ist die Freder1k-Studie ein Modellprojekt, das die Grundlage für eine europäische Primärpräventionsstudie des Typ-1-Diabetes schaffen soll.
Welche Stenosen sollten mit einem Bypass versorgt werden?
Authors: Moritz Anton
Published: July 2017

Diabetische Patienten bedürfen aufgrund einer differenten Pathophysiologie der koronaren Herzkrankheit, aber auch einer anderen Risikostruktur einer speziellen Indikationsstellung für eine perkutane transluminale Koronarangioplastie (PTCA) oder eine Koronarchirurgie. Anders als bei Patienten mit normalem Metabolismus nehmen sklerotische Gefäße in diesem Patientenkollektiv mit zunehmender Plaquebildung im Durchmesser nicht zu (negatives Remodeling). Zusätzlich kommt es beim Diabetiker häufiger zu Koronarereignissen im Bereich geringer Sklerosen als beim metabolisch gesunden Patienten. Die Leitlinien empfehlen für Menschen mit koronarer Herzkrankheit und Diabetes mellius die Koronarchirurgie, insbesondere dann, wenn eine komplexe Koronarsituation besteht. Dem steht eine dominante Versorgung durch die PTCA in der klinischen Praxis entgegen. Randomisierte Studien und Metaanalyse ergeben einen etwa 30 %igen Überlebensvorteil für die Koronarchirurgie beim Diabetiker. Multiple und insbesondere periphere Anschlüsse auch an kleinen Gefäßen sind die technischen Vorteile der Chirurgie. Zusätzlich protegieren arterielle Transplantate durch eine NO-Protektion das abhängige Gefäßbett.
Insufficient Angiogenesis: Cause of Abnormally Thin Endometrium in Subfertile Patients?
Authors: Alfer Joachim , Happel Lars , Dittrich Ralf , Beckmann Matthias , Hartmann Arndt , Gaumann Andreas , Buck Volker , Classen-Linke Irmgard
Published: July 2017

Introduction This study investigated subfertile patients with abnormally thin endometrium after infertility treatment. As they had adequate serum concentrations of hormones, an endometrial factor for subfertility was suspected.

Methods To elucidate the cause of subfertility, endometrial biopsies were taken in each patient in the late proliferative and mid-secretory phases of one menstrual cycle. Endometrial biopsies from women with normal menstrual cycles and confirmed fertility who were undergoing hysterectomy for benign uterine disease were used as positive controls. The tissue samples were investigated for steroid hormone receptor expression and for the proliferation marker Ki-67. Immunohistochemistry was performed with antibodies against the marker molecules for endometrial receptivity – β3 integrin, VEGF, LIF, and CD56 (large granular lymphocytes, LGLs).

Results The steroid hormone receptors for estrogen (E2) and progesterone (P) were expressed normally (at the first biopsy) and were down-regulated (at the second biopsy) within the cycle. Strikingly, all of the marker molecules investigated showed negative or weak and inadequate expression in the mid-secretory phase. Numbers of LGLs remained as low as in the proliferative phase. In contrast, fertile patients were found to express these marker molecules distinctly in the mid-secretory phase.

Conclusions It may be hypothesized that a severe deficiency of these angiogenesis-related marker molecules leads to defective development of the endometrium, which remains thin. Deficient angiogenetic development may thus provide an explanation for the endometrial factor that causes infertility. Further investigations will need to focus on identifying the regulating factors that act between steroid receptor activation and the expression of these marker molecules.
Sektorenübergreifende Versorgung von Patienten mit diabetischem Fußsyndrom
Authors: Kersken Joachim , Metzger Christoph , Röhrig Ingo , Morbach Stephan
Published: July 2017

Die reduzierte Schmerzwahrnehmung aufgrund einer diabetischen Polyneuropathie gepaart mit einer schlechten Durchblutung der Füße aufgrund einer peripheren arteriellen Verschlusskrankheit ist in der Regel der Grund, warum etwa 15 % der Diabetiker im Laufe ihres Lebens infolge ihrer Erkrankung schmerzlose, schlecht heilende Wunden an den Füßen – ein sogenanntes diabetisches Fußsyndrom – entwickeln. Pro Jahr entsteht bei 4 % der Diabetiker eine neue Wunde, bei 0,1 % kommt es durch den Zusammenbruch des Fußgewölbes zu einem Charcot-Fuß. Bleibt der Zustand der Füße unbeachtet, können sich kleine Verletzungen unbemerkt zu erheblichen Schädigungen entwickeln – bis hin zu notwendigen Minor- und Majoramputationen. Um solche schwerwiegenden Komplikationen möglichst zu verhindern, hat die Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fuß in der Deutschen Diabetes Gesellschaft (DDG) schon vor fast 15 Jahren Qualitätskriterien für ambulante und stationäre Fußbehandlungseinrichtungen zur interdisziplinären Behandlung von Patienten mit diabetischem Fuß definiert. Inzwischen sind 227 ambulante und 82 stationäre Einrichtungen nach den Kriterien der DDG zertifiziert. Damit soll eine bundesweit praktisch flächendeckende, wohnortnahe und qualitätsgesicherte Versorgung dieser Patienten gesichert werden.
Mit Pflanzen und Pilzen gegen den Krebs
Authors: Kress Ralph
Published: July 2017

Die Phyto- inklusive der Aromatherapie und die Mykotherapie sind wichtige Teilbereiche einer seriösen gesamtheitlichen Krebstherapie. Die im Fallbeispiel verordneten Heilpflanzen und -pilze wirken unter anderem antioxidativ, immunmodulierend, entgiftungs- und ausscheidungsfördernd, antitumoral und antikarzinogen. Maßnahmen wie psychoonkologisch orientierte Beratungsgespräche oder aromatherapeutische Ölanwendungen rundeten die Behandlung ab.
Mit Bedacht kombinieren
Authors: Holzhauer Peter
Published: July 2017

Wechselwirkungen spielen beispielsweise in der Krebstherapie eine große Rolle, da die Patienten hier auf verschiedensten Wegen nach Linderung und Heilung suchen. 80 % aller onkologischen Patienten setzen klassische Medikamente sowie diverse Vitamine, Spurenelemente und Naturstoffe ein. Vor einer komplementären Tumortherapie gilt es daher, alle parallel eingenommenen Substanzen sowie die Ernährung des Patienten mitzuberücksichtigen.
Integrative Krebstherapie
Authors: Thiele Enrico
Published: July 2017

Integrative Krebstherapie bedeutet individuelle Therapie im Rahmen eines möglichst ganzheitlichen Gesamtkonzepts. Tumor abbauende, das Immunsystem stärkende, Lebenskraft und -qualität steigernde Maßnahmen werden dabei zusammengeführt. Wichtig sind neben der Immunstimulation die Hyperthermie und die Neutralisierung der vom Tumor produzierten Milchsäure sowie die Vitalstoffzufuhr als Basis.