bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted Epidural Blood Patch Treatment for Refractory Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension in China
Authors: He Fei-Fang , Li Li , Liu Min-Jun , Zhong Tai-Di , Zhang Qiao-Wei , Fang Xiang-Ming
Published: September 2017

Objective An epidural blood patch (EBP) is the mainstay of treatment for refractory spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). We evaluated the treatment efficacy of targeted EBP in refractory SIH.

Methods All patients underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with contrast and heavily T2-weighted spine MRI. Whole spine computed tomography (CT) myelography with non-ionic contrast was performed in 46 patients, and whole spine MR myelography with intrathecal gadolinium was performed in 119 patients. Targeted EBPs were placed in the prone position one or two vertebral levels below the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. Repeat EBPs were offered at 1-week intervals to patients with persistent symptoms, continued CSF leakage, or with multiple leakage sites.

Results Brain MRIs showed pachymeningeal enhancement in 127 patients and subdural hematomas in 32 patients. One hundred fifty-two patients had CSF leakages on heavily T2-weighted spine MRIs. CSF leaks were also detected on CT and MR myelography in 43 and 111 patients, respectively. Good recovery was achieved in all patients after targeted EBP. No serious complications occurred in patients treated with targeted EBP during the 1 to 7 years of follow-up.

Conclusions Targeted and repeat EBPs are rational choices for treatment of refractory SIH caused by CSF leakage.
Timing of Maternal Tobacco Exposure, Hypertension, and Risk of Singleton Small-For-Gestational Age Infants
Authors: Kirby Russell , Luke Sabrina
Published: September 2017

Objective Small-for-gestational age infants are at an increased risk for disabilities and chronic health problems. Smoking and hypertension during pregnancy pose significant risks for fetal growth restriction. The study aims to identify whether (1) the timing of tobacco use modifies the risk of small-for-gestational age, (2) there are differences in association by percentile of small-for-gestational age (3rd, 5th, and 10th percentile), and (3) the effect of tobacco exposure on small-for-gestational age outcome is mediated by hypertension.

Materials and Methods Data were obtained from the 2009 Natality public use file available through the National Center for Health Statistics. Women were categorized into 11 groups depending on the trimester of tobacco exposure, the number of daily cigarettes smoked, and presence of hypertension. Multivariable log-linear regression models were performed to determine the association between percentile of singleton small-for-gestational age outcome (3rd, 5th, and 10th), trimester and degree of tobacco exposure, and hypertension.

Results Hypertension and smoking worked synergistically to restrict fetal growth. Hypertensive women who smoked heavily in all three trimesters were 4.34 times more likely to give birth to a 3rd percentile small-for-gestational age infant compared with nonsmoking normotensive women.

Conclusion The timing and duration of tobacco exposure mediates the risk and severity of fetal growth restriction.
Efectividad del tratamiento de la enfermedad de Dupuytren (ED) mediante fasciotomía enzimática con colagenasa. Estudio multicéntrico cohortes prospectivo
Authors: Olea A. , Dudley A. F. , Andrade M. D. , Ocampos M. , Fahandezh-Saddi H. , Del Cerro M.
Published: September 2017

Objetivos: Se ha realizado un estudio prospectivo multicéntrico con el objetivo de evaluar la efectividad del tratamiento de la enfermedad de Dupuytren (ED) con colagenasa mediante la medición de la corrección de la contractura en flexión de las articulaciones tratadas con colagenasa y la tasa de recidivas al mes, 6 y 12 meses.

Material y métodos: Se evaluaron los sujetos que presentasen contractura de 20º o mayor en articulaciones metacarpofalángicas (MCF) o interfalángicas proximales (IFP). Se recogieron datos al mes, 6 y 12 meses postinfiltración. Se compararon las medias entre grados de contractura y su evolución en el tiempo.

Resultados: Los casos con afectación exclusiva MCF sumaron 58, su contractura media fue de 50º. Los pacientes tratados de IFP fueron 16, su contractura media fue de 64º. Aquellos que tenían patología en ambas articulaciones fueron 52 casos. La MCF obtuvo una extensión completa al mes en el 80% y la IFP en el 66% de casos con contractura menor de 50º. La MCF y el 33% de las IFP menor de 40º mantuvieron la corrección al año.

Conclusiones: Los autores recomiendan el tratamiento mediante colagenasa en pacientes que presentan contractura en flexión de un solo dedo y que afecta a la articulación MCF.
Distonía focal de mano
Authors: Proubasta I. , Pagonabarraga J. , Lamas C. , Millan A.
Published: September 2017

La distonía focal de mano es un síndrome clínico neurológico caracterizado por la existencia de contracciones musculares involuntarias, sostenidas y persistentes, que provocan movimientos y posturas anormales. Su etiología, aunque controvertida, parece estar desencadenada por la actividad repetitiva, permanente y constante de la misma. Su diagnóstico es difícil, pues no existe ningún “test” o “pruebas diagnósticas” que la confirmen. De hecho, el diagnóstico de certeza de una distonía de mano puede demorarse entre 5 y 8 años, no siendo extraño que estos pacientes hayan pasado por varias cirugías previas innecesarias antes de su diagnóstico definitivo, el cual es básicamente clínico. Es por ello, que consideramos fundamental llegar a un diagnóstico precoz, con el fin evitar pérdidas innecesarias de tiempo y dinero, e iniciar el tratamiento más adecuado. En este sentido, la interacción entre cirujanos de mano, neurólogos y fisioterapeutas se hace imprescindible.
Application of Graphene and its Derivatives in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Ghanbarzadeh S. , Hamishehkar H.
Published: September 2017

Although chemotherapies are successful in some cases, systemic toxicity could be simultaneously observed due to the lack of drugs selectivity to cancerous tissues, leading to the failure of the chemotherapies. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects will be significantly improved if the anticancer drugs could be delivered to cancer cells with high selectivity. In recent years, there have been many advances in the field of diagnosis and treatment of cancer as a result of the development of novel materials with noticeable and often unique properties. Nanoparticles have unique biological properties, owing to their small size and large surface area-to-volume ratio, which allow them to bind, absorb, and carry compounds such as small molecule drugs, DNA, RNA, proteins, and probes with high efficiency. In the course of the last decade, Graphene and its derivatives have attracted growing interest in medicinal and pharmaceutical sciences, and many studies have focused on the potential of Graphene and its derivatives as carriers for targeted drug delivery intended for cancer diagnosis and therapies. In the present study, we will review the characteistics and application of Graphene and its different derivatives and finally discuss the opportunities, limitations, and challenges in this encouraging field.
Use
of the over-the-scope-clip (OTSC) in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal
bleeding in patients with severe cardiovascular comorbidities: a retrospective
study
Authors: Wedi Edris , von Renteln Daniel , Gonzalez Susana , Tkachenko Olena , Jung Carlo , Orkut Sinan , Roth Victor , Tumay Selin , Hochberger Juergen
Published: September 2017

Introduction The over-the-scope-clip (OTSC) can potentially overcome
limitations of standard clips and achieve more efficient and reliable
hemostasis. Data on OTSC use for non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding
(NVUGIB) in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities are currently limited.

Patients and methods We prospectively collected and retrospectively
analyzed our database from February 2009 to September 2015 from all patients who
underwent emergency endoscopy for high-risk NVUGIB in 2 academic centers and
were treated with OTSC as first-line (n = 81) or second-line therapy (n = 19).

Results One hundred patients mean age 72 (range 27 – 97 years) were
included in this study. Fifty-one percent (n = 51) had severe cardiovascular
co-morbidity (ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure, hypertension,
valvular heart disease, peripheral arterial occlusive disease and atrial
fibrillation) and 73 % (n = 73) were on antiplatelet or/and anticoagulation
therapy. The median size of the treated ulcers was 3 cm (range 1 – 5 cm). In
94 % (n = 94) primary hemostasis with OTSC was achieved. Clinical long-term
success during a mean 6-month follow-up without rebleeding was 86 % (n = 86).

Conclusions In this cohort OTSC was demonstrated to be a safe and
effective first- or second-line treatment for NVUGIB in high-risk patients with
cardiovascular disease and complex, large ulcers.

Meeting presentations:
Annual Meeting of the German Society of Endoscopy (DEGBV) in Mannheim, Germany,
March 17th–19th, 2016 and DDW 2016 in San Diego, United
States
Effectiveness and safety of metallic stent for ileocecal obstructive colon cancer: a report of 4 cases
Authors: Ishii Tatsuya , Minaga Kosuke , Ogawa Satoshi , Ikenouchi Maiko , Yoshikawa Tomoe , Akamatsu Takuji , Seta Takeshi , Urai Shunji , Uenoyama Yoshito , Yamashita Yukitaka
Published: September 2017

Background and study aims Self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) have been widely used for left-sided colorectal obstruction. Few studies on SEMS placement for right-sided colonic obstructions have been reported because stenting in the right colon is technically difficult, particularly in the ileocecal region. We present 4 cases of successful bridge-to-surgery stenting for ileocecal cancer. Using an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography catheter with a movable tip and a decompression tube was effective for stenting. No adverse events occurred during or after SEMS placement in any of these cases. Short-term stenting for ileocecal cancer seems to be effective and safe.
Evaluation of image-enhanced endoscopic technology using advanced diagnostic endoscopy for the detection of early gastric cancer: a pilot study
Authors: Yamaguchi Daisuke , Kodashima Shinya , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Ono Satoshi , Niimi Keiko , Mochizuki Satoshi , Tsuji Yosuke , Asada-Hirayama Itsuko , Sakaguchi Yoshiki , Shichijo Satoki , Minatsuki Chihiro , Yamamichi Nobutake , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: September 2017

Background and study aims Image-enhanced endoscopy (IEE) plays an important role in early detection and detailed examination of early gastric cancer (EGC). The current study aimed to clarify the efficacy of IEE using advanced diagnostic endoscopy for EGC detection without magnification.

Patients and methods We performed endoscopic examinations without magnification in patients referred to our hospital with a diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal tumor detected through routine screening endoscopy. In this study, we used three IEE technologies: narrow-band imaging; blue laser imaging; and i-scan optical enhancement. The detection rates for EGC between IEE and white-light imaging (WLI) were compared.

Results Between July 2013 and June 2014, 156 patients were enrolled. Among upper gastrointestinal tumors, we analyzed endoscopic examination results of 119 lesions that were histologically diagnosed as EGC in 109 patients. The EGC detection rate in the IEE plus WLI groups was 77.3 %. Although the EGC detection rate in the IEE group was higher than that in the WLI group (80.0 % vs. 70.3 %), there was no significant difference between these two modalities. An important detection factor using IEE was tumor circumference, where the rate of detection in the anterior wall and lesser curvature was significantly higher than that in the posterior wall and greater curvature (P = 0.046). An important detection factor using WLI was color variation, where the rate of occurrence of a reddened or pale tumor was significantly higher than that of normal colored tumors (P = 0.030).

Conclusions The detection rate of EGC without magnification was similar between the IEE group and the WLI group. Important detection factors differed between IEE and WLI; therefore, the IEE and WLI modalities have different characteristics regarding EGC detection. Consequently, we propose to use both IEE and WLI in the evaluation of EGC.
Optimum Drop Jump Height in Division III Athletes: Under 75% of Vertical Jump Height
Authors: Peng Hsien-Te , Khuat Cong , Kernozek Thomas , Wallace Brian , Lo Shin-Liang , Song Chen-Yi
Published: September 2017

Our purpose was to evaluate the vertical ground reaction force, impulse, moments and powers of hip, knee and ankle joints, contact time, and jump height when performing a drop jump from different drop heights based on the percentage of a performer’s maximum vertical jump height (MVJH). Fifteen male Division III athletes participated voluntarily. Eleven synchronized cameras and two force platforms were used to collect data. One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance tests were used to examine the differences between drop heights. The maximum hip, knee and ankle power absorption during 125%MVJH and 150%MVJH were greater than those during 75%MVJH. The impulse during landing at 100%MVJH, 125%MVJH and 150%MVJH were greater than 75%MVJH. The vertical ground reaction force during 150%MVJH was greater than 50%MVJH, 75%MVJH and 100%MVJH. Drop height below 75%MVJH had the most merits for increasing joint power output while having a lower impact force, impulse and joint power absorption. Drop height of 150%MVJH may not be desirable as a high-intensity stimulus due to the much greater impact force, increasing the risk of injury, without increasing jump height performance.
Safety and efficacy of coaxial lumen-apposing metal stents in the management of refractory gastrointestinal luminal strictures: a multicenter study
Authors: Bazerbachi Fateh , Heffley Jason , Abu Dayyeh Barham , Nieto Jose , Vargas Eric , Sawas Tarek , Zaghlol Raja , Buttar Navtej , Topazian Mark , Wong Kee Song Louis , Levy Michael , Keilin Steve , Cai Qiang , Willingham Field
Published: September 2017

Background and aims Benign gastrointestinal (GI) strictures are often refractory to standard endoscopic interventions. Fully covered coaxial lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) have emerged as a novel therapy for these strictures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of LAMS for refractory GI strictures.

Patients and methods A retrospective analysis was performed for patients who underwent LAMS placement for benign luminal strictures in three US centers between January 2014 and December 2016. The primary outcomes were technical success and initial clinical success of LAMS placement. Secondary outcomes were stent migration, rate of re-intervention, and adverse events.

Results A total of 49 patients underwent 56 LAMS placement procedures. Previous treatment had failed in 39 patients (79.6 %), and anastomotic strictures were the indication in 77.6 % (38/49), with the most common site being gastrojejunal (34.7 % [17/49]). Technical success was achieved in all procedures and initial clinical success was achieved in 96.4 % of all procedures (54/56). Patient initial clinical success was 95.9 % (47/49). Stent migration occurred in 17.9 % of procedures, and was more likely to occur at sites in the lower GI tract (P = 0.02). The mean stent dwell time was 100.6 days, and the mean follow-up was 169.8 days. Minor adverse events, not requiring hospitalization, occurred in 33.9 % of procedures, including subsequent stricture progression (10.7 %). In cases where LAMS were removed, mean follow-up time was 102.2 days. The re-intervention rate was 75 % at 300 days follow-up after stent removal. Of the LAMS placed at anastomotic strictures, 36.4 % required re-intervention, with approximately two-thirds of these re-interventions requiring placement of a new stent or surgery.

Conclusion LAMS placement was successful for the management of refractory GI strictures, with good technical and initial clinical success rates. However, re-intervention rates after LAMS removal were high, and many strictures were not resolved by an extended period of stenting with these coaxial stents. LAMS placement offers additional therapeutic options and in selected cases might be considered a destination therapy for patients with recalcitrant benign strictures.
Minimalinvasive Therapie von Tränenwegstenosen
Authors: Avgitidou Georgia , Koch Konrad , Heindl Ludwig
Published: September 2017

Epiphora stellt den häufigsten Grund für eine ophthalmologische Konsultation dar. Ursächlich kann eine Tränenwegstenose sein, die seit mehr als 100 Jahren mittels externer Dakryozystostomie nach Toti behandelt wird. Die neuen vielversprechenden minimalinvasiven Techniken zur Therapie von Tränenwegstenosen nehmen heutzutage einen immer größeren Stellenwert in der Behandlung der Tränenwegstenose ein. Einen Überblick darüber gibt dieser Beitrag.
Thyroid Hormone-Induced Expression of the Hepatic Scaffold Proteins Sestrin2, β-Klotho, and FRS2α in Relation to FGF21-AMPK Signaling
Authors: Videla Luis , Vargas Romina , Riquelme Barbara , Fernández Javier , Fernández Virginia
Published: September 2017

Thyroid hormone (3,3′,5-triiodothyronine, T3) accelerates energy metabolism in the liver through mechanisms involving upregulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). This study aims to assess the influence of T3 on the expression of the scaffold proteins β-Klotho, fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2α (FRS2α), and Sestrin2 in relation to FGF21-AMPK signaling. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given 0.1 mg T3/kg or hormone vehicle (controls) and studies were done 24 h after treatment. These include measurements of the mRNA expression (qPCR) of hepatic β-Klotho, FGF21, FGF21 receptor-1 (FGFR1), extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), FRS2α, ribosomal S6 kinase-1 (RSK1), liver kinase B1 (LKB1), AMPK, and Sestrin2. Also, protein levels of FGF21, FGFR1 (ELISA), and ERK1/2 (Western blot) were measured. T3 elicited a calorigenic response with higher hepatic mRNA expression of β-Klotho, FRS2α, and FGF21, increased serum FGF21, without changes in liver FGFR1 mRNA and its plasma levels. In addition, T3 enhanced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and the mRNA expression of ERK1/2, RSK1, LKB1, AMPK, and Sestrin2. T3 administration enhances liver FGF21-AMPK signaling involving upregulation of the scaffold proteins β-Klotho, FRS2α, and Sestrin2. β-Klotho and FRS2 induction favours the operation of the FGF21-FGFR1-β-Klotho complex as evidenced by the enhancement in ERK1/2 phosphorylation, whereas that of Sestrin2 recruits LKB1 to achieved AMPK activation, thus supporting a higher energy expenditure condition that may be desirable in some metabolic disorders
Comprehensive Analytics of Actovegin® and Its Effect on Muscle Cells
Authors: Reichl Franz-Xaver , Holdt Lesca , Teupser Daniel , Schütze Gregor , Metcalfe Alan , Hickel Reinhard , Högg Christof , Bloch Wilhelm
Published: September 2017

The ingredients of Actovegin® were analyzed and its effects on the muscle cell proliferation were investigated. C2C12 myoblasts were cultured in medium. Actovegin® was added in five different concentrations (1, 5, 25, 125, and 250 µg) to the differentiation medium. The formations of proliferation factor Ki67 and myosin heavy chains were measured by immunofluorescence. The first primary antibody was anti-Ki67 and anti-Mf20. Cells were washed and treated with the second fluorochrome. Thirty-one Actovegin® ingredients were found to contain significantly higher concentrations and twenty-nine ingredients were found to contain significantly lower concentrations, compared to the mean ranges as described in the literature for the normal physiological concentrations in human adult serum/plasma. A significant increase in the formation of Ki67 was observed in Actovegin® groups, compared to controls. The mean area of myotubes was significantly increased in Actovegin® groups. A significant decrease in the number of myotubes was observed. An increased myotube size (fusion) was observed. The intensity of Mf20 was significantly increased in Actovegin® groups. It could be demonstrated that Actovegin® contains many physiological substances in significantly higher and some in lower concentrations compared to human adult serum. Furthermore, it could be shown that Actovegin® improves muscle cell proliferation.
Relaxin Inhibits Cardiac Fibrosis in Diabetic Rats: Roles of Protein Kinase Cδ
Authors: Wang Ping , Li Meng , Dong Lei , Chen Hui , Su Wei , Wang Yu-Peng
Published: September 2017

Relaxin (Rlx) is known to antagonize diabetic cardiac fibrosis. However, its mechanism is poorly understood. Protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) plays a crucial role in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). This study explored the involvement of PKCδ in Rlx’s capacity of suppressing cardiac fibrosis in a rat model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Type 2 DM of 8-week-old male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats was induced by a high-fat diet and the injection of streptozocin (STZ, 40 mg/kg). Fourteen-week-old rats with DM and rats in control group which were pre-treated for 1 week with human recombinant relaxin (rhRlx, 30 μg/kg.d), were assessed to detect cardiac fibrosis and PKCδ expression with Western blot. Cardiac fibroblasts of neonatal rats were treated for 72 h with rhRlx (100 ng/ml) under high glucose (HG). Western blot was utilized for detecting the membranous and cytoplasmic protein expressions of PKCδ. The effects of rhRlx and PKCδ inhibitor (rottlerin) were assessed either alone or in combination on the HG-induced proliferation and differentiation of cardiac fibroblasts and the release of collagen I.

Rlx treatment inhibited the differentiation of cardiac fibroblasts and the expression of collagen I. The expression of PKCδ was regulated by Rlx in diabetic rats and cardiac fibroblasts under HG condition. The effects of Rlx upon the proliferation and differentiation of cardiac fibroblasts and the excretion of collagen I under HG were blunted by rottlerin. Rlx suppressed cardiac fibrosis in type 2 diabetic rats. This beneficial effect was associated with its ability of modulating the expression of PKCδ.
The Protective Effect of the Ethanol Leaf Extract of Andrographis Paniculata on Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Rats Through nrf2/KIM-1 Signalling Pathway
Authors: Adeoye Bisi , Asenuga Ebunoluwa , Oyagbemi Ademola , Omobowale Temidayo , Adedapo Adeolu
Published: September 2017

The ethanol leaf extract of Andrographis paniculata was used to ameliorate the renal toxicity induced by cisplatin in 28 rats divided into four groups of seven rats per group. Group A received normal saline for the duration of the experiment. Group B animals were treated with cisplatin (10 mg/kg i.p) on day 1 and 3 days after received normal saline for the next 7 days while groups C and D animals also received 10 mg/kg dose of cisplatin on day 1 but after 3 days were then respectively treated with 200 and 400 mg/kg doses of the extract of Andrographis paniculata for the remaining 7 days through oral administration. Serum chemistry was used for the determination of markers of oxidative stress, anti-oxidant enzymes, serum biomarkers etc. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were also carried out. Results showed that all oxidative stress markers assayed were significantly increased in group B animals but reverse is the case for groups C and D. On the other hand, antioxidant enzymes assayed experienced significant increase for groups C and D while these parameters experienced significant decrease for group B animals. Histopathology showed severe infiltration of inflammatory cells into renal tissues of group B animals whereas for groups C and D animals, only moderate glomerular degeneration was noted. In immunohistochemistry, while there is higher expression of KIM-1 for group B, there was a lower expression in groups C and D. Again, there was lower expression of Nrf2 for group B but higher expressions in groups C and D animals.
OCT-angiografische Veränderungen von der Typ-2-CNV bei exsudativer AMD unter Anti-VEGF-Therapie
Authors: Faatz Henrik , Rothaus Kai , Gunnemann Frederic , Gutfleisch Matthias , Heimes-Bussmann Britta , Lommatzsch Albrecht , Pauleikhoff Daniel , Farecki Marie-Louise
Published: September 2017

Hintergrund Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war es, Veränderungen von der Typ-2-CNV (klassische CNV) in der OCT-Angiografie (OCT-A) unter Anti-VEGF-Therapie aufzuzeigen und die Abgrenzbarkeit der Läsion vom umgebenden Gewebe in unterschiedlichen Segmentierungen zu untersuchen.

Methode Bei 12 Patienten wurde in der Fluoreszenzangiografie (FAG) und im SD-OCT eine gut abgrenzbare Typ-2-CNV mit assoziierten exsudativen Veränderungen im SD-OCT diagnostiziert. Bei allen Patienten wurde zudem eine OCT-A (Avanti, Optovue) vorgenommen. Diese Befunde wurden initial, nach den ersten 3 Injektionen und bei erneuter Läsionsaktivität bei einer Segmentierung auf dem Niveau der Choroidea, Choriokapillaris (CC), RPE und der äußeren Netzhaut verglichen. Bei allen Aufnahmen wurden die Fläche und der Flow ausgemessen sowie die Abgrenzbarkeit der CNV zum umgebenden Gewebe bewertet.

Ergebnisse Nach den ersten 3 Injektionen anti-VEGF waren eine signifikante Verkleinerung des Gefäßareals und eine Reduktion des Flow in allen 4 analysierten Segmentierungen zu sehen (p < 0,05). Am stärksten signifikant waren diese Veränderungen auf Höhe des RPE (p < 0,005). Bei Auftreten von erneuten Aktivitätszeichen im SD-OCT zeigte sich eine signifikante Vergrößerung des CNV-Areals und des Flow nur auf der Ebene der Choriokapillaris im OCT-A (p < 0,05). Bei Vorhandensein von Aktivitätszeichen in den SD-OCT-Aufnahmen ist die Abgrenzbarkeit der Typ-2-CNV vom umgebenden Gewebe deutlich besser, als wenn keine „Aktivität“ vorliegt. Besonders leicht fällt die Abgrenzung auf den Ebenen der Choriokapillaris und des RPE. Zudem zeigte sich im aktiven Stadium einer Typ-2-CNV ein vermehrtes Vorhandensein von Kapillaren, die sich nach Anti-VEGF-Therapie nicht mehr darstellen lassen.

Schlussfolgerungen Mittels OCT-A sind sowohl Größen- als auch Vaskularisationsveränderungen einer Typ-2-CNV detektierbar. Besonders signifikant waren diese Veränderungen auf Höhe des RPE und der CC. Auf diesen Ebenen war auch die Abgrenzbarkeit der Typ-2-CNV zum umgebenden Gewebe besonders gut. Die Ebenen scheinen sich somit für die Verlaufsbeobachtung unter Anti-VEGF-Therapie besonders zu eignen. Durch die Darstellung von Kapillaren bietet die OCT-A eine weitere Möglichkeit, Aktivitätskriterien zu beurteilen. Die OCT-A-Bildgebung dient als ergänzendes diagnostisches Verfahren zu den etablierten, dem SD-OCT und der FAG.
Cold versus hot endoscopic mucosal resection for nonpedunculated colorectal polyps sized 6–10 mm: a randomized trial
Authors: Papastergiou Vasilios , Paraskeva Konstantina , Fragaki Maria , Dimas Ioannis , Vardas Emmanouil , Theodoropoulou Angeliki , Mathou Nicoletta , Giannakopoulos Athanasios , Karmiris Konstantinos , Mpitouli Afroditi , Apessou Dimitra , Giannikaki Linda , Karagiannis John , Chlouverakis Grigorios , Paspatis Gregorios
Published: September 2017

Background and study aims Cold snare polypectomy is an established method for the resection of small colorectal polyps; however, significant incomplete resection rates still leave room for improvement. We aimed to assess the efficacy of cold snare endoscopic mucosal resection (CS-EMR), compared with hot snare endoscopic mucosal resection (HS-EMR), for nonpedunculated polyps sized 6 – 10 mm.

Patients and methods This study was a dual-center, randomized, noninferiority trial. Consecutive adult patients with at least one nonpedunculated polyp sized 6 – 10 mm were enrolled. Eligible polyps were randomized (1:1) to be treated with either CS-EMR or HS-EMR. Both methods involved submucosal injection of a methylene blue-tinted normal saline solution. The primary noninferiority end point was histological eradication evaluated by postpolypectomy biopsies (noninferiority margin – 10 %). Secondary outcomes included occurrence of intraprocedural bleeding, clinically significant postprocedural bleeding, and perforation.

Results Among 689 patients screened, 155 patients with 164 eligible polyps were included (CS-EMR n = 83, HS-EMR n = 81). The overall rate of histological complete resection was 92.8 % in the CS-EMR group and 96.3 % in the HS-EMR group (difference 3.5 %; 95 % confidence interval [CI] – 4.15 to 11.56), showing noninferiority of CS-EMR compared with HS-EMR. CS-EMR was shown to be noninferior both for polyps measuring 6 – 7 mm (CS-EMR 93.3 %; HS-EMR 100 %; 95 %CI – 7.95 to 21.3) and those of 8 – 10 mm (92.5 % vs. 94.7 %, respectively; 95 %CI – 7.91 to 13.16). Rates of intraprocedural bleeding were similar between the two groups (CS-EMR 3.6 %, HS-EMR 1.2 %; P  = 0.30). No clinically significant postprocedural bleeding or perforation occurred in either group.

Conclusions CS-EMR appears to be a valuable modification of the standard cold snare technique, obviating the need to use diathermy for nonpedunculated colorectal polyps sized 6 – 10 mm.
A total internal reflection-fluorescence correlation spectroscopy setup with pulsed diode laser excitation
Authors: Weger Lukas , Hoffmann-Jacobsen Kerstin
Published: September 2017

Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) measures fluctuations in a (sub-)femtoliter volume to analyze the diffusive behavior of fluorescent particles. This highly sensitive method has proven to be useful for the analysis of dynamic biological systems as well as in chemistry, physics, and material sciences. It is routinely performed with commercial fluorescence microscopes, which provide a confined observation volume by the confocal technique. The evanescent wave of total internal reflectance (TIR) is used in home-built systems to permit a surface sensitive FCS analysis. We present a combined confocal and TIR-FCS setup which uses economic low-power pulsed diode lasers for excitation. Excitation and detection are coupled to time-correlated photon counting hardware. This allows simultaneous fluorescence lifetime and FCS measurements in a surface-sensitive mode. Moreover, the setup supports fluorescence lifetime correlation spectroscopy at surfaces. The excitation can be easily switched between TIR and epi-illumination to compare the surface properties with those in liquid bulk. The capabilities of the presented setup are demonstrated by measuring the diffusion coefficients of a free dye molecule, a labeled polyethylene glycol, and a fluorescent nanoparticle in confocal as well as in TIR-FCS.
Quasi-chemical theory of F−(aq): The “no split occupancies rule” revisited
Authors: Chaudhari Mangesh I. , Rempe Susan B. , Pratt Lawrence R.
Published: September 2017

We use ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) calculations and quasi-chemical theory (QCT) to study the inner-shell structure of F−(aq) and to evaluate that single-ion free energy under standard conditions. Following the “no split occupancies” rule, QCT calculations yield a free energy value of −101 kcal/mol under these conditions, in encouraging agreement with tabulated values (−111 kcal/mol). The AIMD calculations served only to guide the definition of an effective inner-shell constraint. QCT naturally includes quantum mechanical effects that can be concerning in more primitive calculations, including electronic polarizability and induction, electron density transfer, electron correlation, molecular/atomic cooperative interactions generally, molecular flexibility, and zero-point motion. No direct assessment of the contribution of dispersion contributions to the internal energies has been attempted here, however. We anticipate that other aqueous halide ions might be treated successfully with QCT, provided that the structure of the underlying statistical mechanical theory is absorbed, i.e., that the “no split occupancies” rule is recognized.
Effect of copper addition on the glass forming ability in Pd-Si binary amorphous alloying system
Authors: Wang Xutong , Zeng Mo , Nollmann Niklas , Wilde Gerhard , Tian Zhuang , Tang Chengying
Published: September 2017

The effect of copper addition on the glass forming ability in Pd-Si amorphous alloys was systematically studied by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimeter with a binary alloy series of Pd81+xSi19-x (x=0, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4) and a ternary alloy series of Pd83.5-xCuxSi16.5 (x=0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12). It has been found that the critical size of the Pd-Si alloys could be improved significantly from 8mm to 15mm and ΔTx could be enhanced from 18.7 K to 54.7 K with the addition of copper. The determined activation energy demonstrates that Cu additions improve the thermal stability of the system significantly. The different results of the measured criteria to evaluate the GFA for the Pd-Si and the Pd-Cu-Si alloys may be linked to a different crystallization behavior. The enhanced GFA is linked to a more thermodynamically stable liquid and a reduction of atomic diffusion in the ternary alloy by Cu addition.
Room temperature operation of electro-optical bistability in the edge-emitting tunneling-collector transistor laser
Authors: Feng M. , Holonyak N. , Wang C. Y.
Published: September 2017

Optical bistable devices are fundamental to digital photonics as building blocks of switches, logic gates, and memories in future computer systems. Here, we demonstrate both optical and electrical bistability and capability for switching in a single transistor operated at room temperature. The electro-optical hysteresis is explained by the interaction of electron-hole (e-h) generation and recombination dynamics with the cavity photon modulation in different switching paths. The switch-UP and switch-DOWN threshold voltages are determined by the rate difference of photon generation at the base quantum-well and the photon absorption via intra-cavity photon-assisted tunneling controlled by the collector voltage. Thus, the transistor laser electro-optical bistable switching is programmable with base current and collector voltage, and the basis for high speed optical logic processors.
Bunches of misfit dislocations on the onset of relaxation of Si0.4Ge0.6/Si(001) epitaxial films revealed by high-resolution x-ray diffraction
Authors: Kaganer Vladimir , Ulyanenkova Tatjana , Benediktovitch Andrei , Myronov Maksym , Ulyanenkov Alex
Published: September 2017

The experimental x-ray diffraction patterns of a Si0.4Ge0.6/Si(001) epitaxial film with a low density of misfit dislocations are modeled by the Monte Carlo method. It is shown that an inhomogeneous distribution of 60° dislocations with dislocations arranged in bunches is needed to explain the experiment correctly. As a result of the dislocation bunching, the positions of the x-ray diffraction peaks do not correspond to the average dislocation density but reveal less than a half of the actual relaxation.
Magnetic two-dimensional organic topological insulator: Au–1,3,5-triethynylbenzene framework
Authors: Chen Yu , Sun Qiang
Published: September 2017

Based on first-principles calculations, we demonstrate that the recently-synthesized 2D organometallic framework consisting of Au atoms and 1,3,5-triethynylbenzene (Au-TEB) is a magnetic 2D organic topological insulator (OTI). The charge transfer and covalent bonding character lead to ferromagnetism and half-metallicity in the framework, and the weak spin-orbit coupling (SOC) of C pz orbitals mediated by Au d orbitals opens modest bandgaps in the vicinity of the Fermi level. Moreover, using tight-binding model simulations, we further characterize the nonzero Chern number and edge states of Au-TEB to confirm its topological nontriviality that remains intact when the framework is supported on an insulating substrate, and applying an external strain can increase the magnitude of SOC gaps, leading to an enhanced topological nontriviality. Our results suggest that the Au-TEB organometallic framework is promising for the potential applications in quantum spintronics with the merits of low cost and easy synthesis.
Formation of electron energy spectra during magnetic reconnection in laser-produced plasma
Authors: Huang Kai , Lu Quanming , Huang Can , Dong Quanli , Wang Huanyu , Fan Feibin , Sheng Zhengming , Wang Shui , Zhang Jie
Published: September 2017

Energetic electron spectra formed during magnetic reconnection between two laser-produced plasma bubbles are investigated by the use of two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. It is found that the evolution of such an interaction between the two plasma bubbles can be separated into two distinct stages: squeezing and reconnection stages. In the squeezing stage, when the two plasma bubbles expand quickly and collide with each other, the magnetic field in the inflow region is greatly enhanced. In the second stage, a thin current sheet is formed between the two plasma bubbles, and then, magnetic reconnection occurs therein. During the squeezing stage, electrons are heated in the perpendicular direction by betatron acceleration due to the enhancement of the magnetic field around the plasma bubbles. Meanwhile, non-thermal electrons are generated by the Fermi mechanism when these electrons bounce between the two plasma bubbles approaching quickly and get accelerated mainly by the convective electric field associated with the plasma bubbles. During the reconnection stage, electrons get further accelerated mainly by the reconnection electric field in the vicinity of the X line. When the expanding speed of the plasma bubbles is sufficiently large, the formed electron energy spectra have a kappa distribution, where the lower energy part satisfies a Maxwellian function and the higher energy part is a power-law distribution. Moreover, the increase in the expanding speed will result in the hardening of formed power-law spectra in both the squeezing and reconnection stages.
Near-infrared spectroscopy and anharmonic theory of the H2O+Ar1,2 cation complexes
Authors: Wagner J. Philipp , McDonald David C. , Duncan Michael A.
Published: September 2017

Weakly bound complexes of the water radical cation with argon (H2O+Arn, n = 1,2) were generated by an electrical discharge/supersonic expansion and probed with mid- and near-infrared photodissociation spectroscopy in the 2050–4550 and 4850–7350 cm−1 regions. To elucidate these spectra, these complexes were studied computationally at the CCSD(T) level including anharmonicity with the VPT2 method. The comparison between experiment and predicted spectra demonstrates that the VPT2 method is adequate to capture most of the vibrational band positions and their intensities. In addition to the fundamentals, overtones of the symmetric and the asymmetric water stretches and their combination were detected. Additional bands were assigned to combinations of the overtone of the bound O–H stretch with multiple excitation levels of the intermolecular Ar–H stretch. H2O+Ar2 could not be dissociated in the higher frequency region (4850–7350 cm−1).
Communication: Charge transfer dominates over proton transfer in the reaction of nitric acid with gas-phase hydrated electrons
Authors: Lengyel Jozef , Med Jakub , Slavíček Petr , Beyer Martin K.
Published: September 2017

The reaction of HNO3 with hydrated electrons (H2O)n− (n = 35–65) in the gas phase was studied using Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) mass spectrometry and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Kinetic analysis of the experimental data shows that OH−(H2O)m is formed primarily via a reaction of the hydrated electron with HNO3 inside the cluster, while proton transfer is not observed and NO3−(H2O)m is just a secondary product. The reaction enthalpy was determined using nanocalorimetry, revealing a quite exothermic charge transfer with −241 ± 69 kJ mol−1. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations indicate that proton transfer is an allowed reaction pathway, but the overall thermochemistry favors charge transfer.
Characterization of laser-induced plasmas as a complement to high-explosive large-scale detonations
Authors: Kimblin Clare , Trainham Rusty , Capelle Gene A. , Mao Xianglei , Russo Richard E.
Published: September 2017

Experimental investigations into the characteristics of laser-induced plasmas indicate that LIBS provides a relatively inexpensive and easily replicable laboratory technique to isolate and measure reactions germane to understanding aspects of high-explosive detonations under controlled conditions. Spectral signatures and derived physical parameters following laser ablation of aluminum, graphite and laser-sparked air are examined as they relate to those observed following detonation of high explosives and as they relate to shocked air. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) reliably correlates reactions involving atomic Al and aluminum monoxide (AlO) with respect to both emission spectra and temperatures, as compared to small- and large-scale high-explosive detonations. Atomic Al and AlO resulting from laser ablation and a cited small-scale study, decay within ∼10-5 s, roughly 100 times faster than the Al and AlO decay rates (∼10-3 s) observed following the large-scale detonation of an Al-encased explosive. Temperatures and species produced in laser-sparked air are compared to those produced with laser ablated graphite in air. With graphite present, CN is dominant relative to N2+. In studies where the height of the ablating laser’s focus was altered relative to the surface of the graphite substrate, CN concentration was found to decrease with laser focus below the graphite surface, indicating that laser intensity is a critical factor in the production of CN, via reactive nitrogen.
Librations induced zonal flow and differential rotation of free inner core in rotating spherical cavity
Authors: Kozlov V. G. , Subbotin S. V.
Published: September 2017

The paper is devoted to the experimental study of the dynamics of a free solid core and a liquid in a spherical cavity rotating about a horizontal axis. The cavity rotation rate consists of two components: constant and oscillating ones (librations). Under the action of centrifugal force the core with the density less than the density of liquid is located near the rotation axis. The gravity field causes a small stationary displacement of the core from the cavity center. In turn, this displacement induces mean retrograde differential rotation of the core and the fluid. It is found that the librations generate the mean effects (zonal flow and the retrograde differential rotation of the core), which manifest themselves in sum with the ones caused by gravity. The intensity of zonal flow and the core differential rotation is proportional to the square of the libration amplitude. The additivity of mean effects connected with librations and gravity is observed in a wide range of the libration frequency excluding the areas of very low-frequency librations and resonant (close to the rotation frequency and natural frequencies of the core translational oscillations) ones. At low-frequency librations, the core rotation rate changes periodically with the libration frequency and is accompanied by the periodic variation of the core position in the cavity. At some part of the libration period, the relaxation oscillations of the core with natural frequency are excited. Librations with the frequency equal to the cavity rotation exert the strongest resonant effect on the core, generating the core translational oscillations with large amplitude and substantial change of the structure of mean zonal flows. In this case and when the libration frequency coincides with the natural frequency of the core oscillations, the dependence of the differential rotational rate on the libration amplitude is different from the quadratic. This specific response of the system on the librations is caused by the shift of the core from the axis due to the gravity field.
Transformation of mode-2 internal solitary wave over a pseudo slope-shelf
Authors: Cheng Ming-Hung , Hsieh Chih-Min , Hsu John R.-C. , Hwang Robert R.
Published: September 2017

Numerical simulations are performed to investigate the effect of wave amplitude in a numerical wave tank on the evolution of a convex mode-2 internal solitary wave (ISW) propagating over a pseudo slope-shelf. A finite volume method based on a Cartesian grid system is adopted to solve the Navier-Stokes equations using Improved Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation model for the turbulent closure. Numerical results reveal three types of waveform during wave generation on the flat bottom: (1) pseudo vortex shedding in the case of very large initial amplitude; (2) PacMan phenomenon in large amplitude; and (3) smooth mode-2 ISW for small amplitude. During wave propagation on the plateau, the first type of waveform induces a quasi-elevated mode-1 ISW; the second generates chaotic internal waves with significant reduction in amplitude; while the third renders a slightly deformed mode-2 ISW across the plateau. Moreover, the decrease in the magnitude of leading trough is more intense than that in the leading crest due to strong wave-obstacle interaction in the case of very large initial wave amplitude.
Spatially resolved spectroscopic ion temperature measurements at plasma edge of the T-10 tokamak
Authors: Klyuchnikov L. A. , Krupin V. A. , Nurgaliev M. R. , Nemets A. R. , Zemtsov I. A. , Tugarinov S. N. , Naumenko N. N.
Published: September 2017

Spectroscopic diagnostics of the edge ion temperature were developed on the T-10 tokamak. Spatially resolved measurements of C5+ and other ionization states of carbon spectral line shapes are provided. Spectra were measured with high spectral resolution using 14 lines of sight in one poloidal section of the tokamak. Each measured line-integrated spectrum contains a combination of multiple local spectra with corresponding values of ion temperature. Modeling of spatial distribution of line emissivity and spectral line shapes along the lines of sight allows the reconstruction of the ion temperature profile on the basis of the closest match of measured and modeled spectra. The fine structure of spectral line, Zeeman effect, and apparatus function are taken into account during data processing. Obtained ion temperature profiles, Ti(r), at the plasma edge are in good agreement with ion temperature profiles measured by Charge eXchange Recombination Spectroscopy (CXRS) diagnostics of T-10. Use of the CXRS equipment for measurements of passive spectra can provide additional information on the temporal evolution of the edge ion temperature. Developed diagnostics provide necessary data for the research of geodesic acoustic modes, which are strongly dependent on plasma edge ion temperature.
Setup for polarized neutron imaging using in situ 3He cells at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory High Flux Isotope Reactor CG-1D beamline
Authors: Dhiman I. , Ziesche Ralf , Wang Tianhao , Bilheux Hassina , Santodonato Lou , Tong X. , Jiang C. Y. , Manke Ingo , Treimer Wolfgang , Chatterji Tapan , Kardjilov Nikolay
Published: September 2017

In the present study, we report a new setup for polarized neutron imaging at the ORNL High Flux Isotope Reactor CG-1D beamline using an in situ 3He polarizer and analyzer. This development is very important for extending the capabilities of the imaging instrument at ORNL providing a polarized beam with a large field-of-view, which can be further used in combination with optical devices like Wolter optics, focusing guides, or other lenses for the development of microscope arrangement. Such a setup can be of advantage for the existing and future imaging beamlines at the pulsed neutron sources. The first proof-of-concept experiment is performed to study the ferromagnetic phase transition in the Fe3Pt sample. We also demonstrate that the polychromatic neutron beam in combination with in situ 3He cells can be used as the initial step for the rapid measurement and qualitative analysis of radiographs.