bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rhodanine-based light-harvesting sensitizers: a rational comparison between 2-(1,1-dicyanomethylene)rhodanine and rhodanine-3-acetic acid
Authors: Echeverry-Gonzalez Carlos A. , Ortiz Alejandro , Insuasty Braulio
Published: May 2019

Photophysical, electrochemical and theoretical characterization of new rhodanine-based dyes for DSSC applications, a comparison of the photovoltaic performances of 2-(1,1-dicyanomethylene)rhodanine (DR) and rhodanine-3-acetic acid (RAA).
Multifunctional and flexible ZrO2-coated EGaIn nanoparticles for photothermal therapy
Authors: Xia Na , Li Na , Rao Wei , Yu Jie , Wu Qiong , Tan Longfei , Li Hongbo , Gou Li , Liang Ping , Li Laifeng , Meng Xianwei
Published: May 2019

The nanoparticle not only formed a stable core–shell LM structure, but also maintained the ideal flexibility of the LM.
Super-resolution microscopy can identify specific protein distribution patterns in platelets incubated with cancer cells
Authors: Bergstrand Jan , Xu Lei , Miao Xinyan , Li Nailin , Öktem Ozan , Franzén Bo , Auer Gert , Lomnytska Marta , Widengren Jerker
Published: May 2019

Super-resolution imaging of P-selectin in platelets together with dictionary learning allow specifically activated platelets to be identified in an automatic objective manner.
Boosting the performance of an anion exchange membrane by the formation of well-connected ion conducting channels
Authors: Li Yan , Zhang Jujia , Yang Hua , Yang Shanzhong , Lu Shanfu , Wei Haibing , Ding Yunsheng
Published: May 2019

Enlarging the discrepancies between hydrophilic/hydrophobic segments in the chemical structure of an ionomer proved to be an efficient strategy to induce the formation of a microphase-separated morphology of the resulting anion exchange membrane.
Pyrrolidine-based chiral porous polymers for heterogeneous organocatalysis in water
Authors: Lan Yubao , Yang Chunxia , Zhang Yuan , An Wankai , Xue Huadong , Ding Sanyuan , Zhou Panpan , Wang Wei
Published: May 2019

The “bottom-up” reticulation of chiral pyrrolidine into POPs for heterogeneous organocatalysis in pure water.
A kinetic study on the para-fluoro-thiol reaction in view of its use in materials design
Authors: Cavalli Federica , De Keer Lies , Huber Birgit , Van Steenberge Paul H. M. , D'hooge Dagmar R. , Barner Leonie
Published: May 2019

A detailed kinetic study on the para-fluoro-thiol reaction (PFTR) using experimental analysis and kinetic Monte Carlo modeling is introduced, covering the difference in reactivity of a selected variety of structurally different thiols, uniquely including polymeric thiols.
Furan-flanked diketopyrrolopyrrole-based chalcogenophene copolymers with siloxane hybrid side chains for organic field-effect transistors
Authors: Lee Sang Myeon , Lee Hae Rang , Dutta Gitish K. , Lee Junghoon , Oh Joon Hak , Yang Changduk
Published: May 2019

Furan-flanked diketopyrrolopyrrole-based chalcogenophene copolymers are synthesized for the comprehensive study of the heterocyclic effect in organic field-effect transistors.
High-valence-state manganate(v) Ba3Mn2O8 as an efficient anode of a proton-conducting solid oxide steam electrolyzer
Authors: Toriumi Hajime , Kobayashi Taisei , Hinokuma Satoshi , Ina Toshiaki , Nakamura Takashi , Amezawa Koji , Zhu Chunyu , Habazaki Hiroki , Aoki Yoshitaka
Published: May 2019

High-valence-state Mn(v) oxide Ba3Mn2O8 exhibits good performances for the anodic OER on H+-SOEC.
Metal–organic frameworks based on polynuclear lanthanide complexes and octahedral rhenium clusters
Authors: Litvinova Yulia M. , Gayfulin Yakov M. , van Leusen Jan , Samsonenko Denis G. , Lazarenko Vladimir A. , Zubavichus Yan V. , Kögerler Paul , Mironov Yuri V.
Published: May 2019

A series of MOFs comprising tetrahedral lanthanide complexes, isonicotinate linkers, and the octahedral cluster anion [Re6S8(CN)6]4–demonstrate structure-directing effects of the rhenium cluster.
The effect of water on the validity of Löwenstein's rule
Authors: Heard Christopher J. , Grajciar Lukáš , Nachtigall Petr
Published: May 2019

Löwenstein's rule is explained in terms of the level of solvating water inside zeolite pores, along with the formation of Brønsted acidic water clusters derived from framework sites.
Trifluoromethylthiolation–arylation of diazocarbonyl compounds by modified Hooz multicomponent coupling
Authors: Lübcke Marvin , Bezhan Dina , Szabó Kálmán J.
Published: May 2019

Multicomponent reaction of diazocarbonyl and dibenzenesulfonimide-SCF3 reagents with BAr4 salts in the presence of Zn(NTf2)2 gives α,α′-difunctionalized trifluoromethylthio compounds.
Unusual confinement properties of a water insoluble small peptide hydrogel
Authors: Singha Nilotpal , Srivastava Arpita , Pramanik Bapan , Ahmed Sahnawaz , Dowari Payel , Chowdhuri Sumit , Das Basab Kanti , Debnath Ananya , Das Debapratim
Published: May 2019

A water insoluble peptide-hydrogel that shows unique compartmentalization by not allowing any exchange to and from the hydrogel and can protect enzymes from denaturation.
Probing and regulating the activity of cellular enzymes by using DNA tetrahedron nanostructures
Authors: Zhang Yi , Deng Yingnan , Wang Congshan , Li Lidan , Xu Lida , Yu Yingjie , Su Xin
Published: May 2019

Given the essential role of apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease (APE1) in gene repair and cancer progression, we report a novel approach for probing and regulating cellular APE1 activity by using DNA tetrahedrons.
V2O5 nanosheets supported on 3D N-doped carbon nanowall arrays as an advanced cathode for high energy and high power fiber-shaped zinc-ion batteries
Authors: He Bing , Zhou Zhenyu , Man Ping , Zhang Qichong , Li Chaowei , Xie Liyan , Wang Xiaona , Li Qiulong , Yao Yagang
Published: May 2019

A 3D hierarchical core–shell nanostructure was designed as an advanced cathode for high energy and high power fiber-shaped Zn-ion batteries.
Semiconducting carbon nanotubes as crystal growth templates and grain bridges in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Seo Seungju , Jeon Il , Xiang Rong , Lee Changsoo , Zhang Hao , Tanaka Takeshi , Lee Jin-Wook , Suh Donguk , Ogamoto Tatsuro , Nishikubo Ryosuke , Saeki Akinori , Chiashi Shohei , Shiomi Junichiro , Kataura Hiromichi , Lee Hyuck Mo , Yang Yang , Matsuo Yutaka , Maruyama Shigeo
Published: May 2019

Grain size control and boundary passivation of perovskite films are the key to obtaining efficient perovskite solar cells.
Defect characterisation in Cu2ZnSnSe4kesteritesviaresonance Raman spectroscopy and the impact on optoelectronic solar cell properties
Authors: Dimitrievska Mirjana , Oliva Florian , Guc Maxim , Giraldo Sergio , Saucedo Edgardo , Pérez-Rodríguez Alejandro , Izquierdo-Roca Victor
Published: May 2019

UV-based resonant Raman spectroscopy is an effective technique for a non-destructive assessment of defects in kesterite materials.
The Influence of Treatment on Children's Recovery From Stuttering: Comments on Kefalianos et al. (2017) and Leech et al. (2017)
Authors: Marcotte Anne K.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Two studies published recently in this journal sought to expand on previous attempts to explain and predict young children's recovery from stuttering. This letter addresses the influence of treatment on such research.

Conclusions

Recent publications from
Kefalianos et al. (2017)
and
Leech, Bernstein Ratner, Brown, and Weber (2017)
added to previous information that gender and language ability (or language growth) may be related to children's recovery from stuttering. The conclusions from both studies are difficult to interpret, however, because neither incorporated two factors known to influence children's recovery: a family history of recovery and, especially, the type and timing of treatment. Consideration of these two articles therefore raises multiple empirical, theoretical, and clinical issues that deserve to be fully addressed if our discipline is seeking to understand and to maximize recovery for young children who stutter.
The bimodal [Mg/Fe] versus [Fe/H] bulge sequence as revealed by APOGEE DR14
Authors: Rojas-Arriagada A. , Zoccali M. , Schultheis M. , Recio-Blanco A. , Zasowski G. , Minniti D. , Jönsson H. , Cohen R. E.
Published: May 2019

Context. The Galactic bulge has a bimodal metallicity distribution function: different kinematic, spatial, and, potentially, age distributions characterize the metal-poor and metal-rich components. Despite this observed dichotomy, which argues for different formation channels for those stars, the distribution of bulge stars in the α-abundance versus metallicity plane has been found so far to be a rather smooth single sequence.

Aims. We use data from the fourteenth data release of the APOGEE spectroscopic survey (DR14) to investigate the distribution in the Mg abundance (as tracer of the α-elements)-versus-metallicity plane of a sample of stars selected to be in the inner region of the bulge.

Methods. A clean sample has been selected from the DR14 using a set of data- and pipeline-flags to ensure the quality of their fundamental parameters and elemental abundances. An additional selection made use of computed spectro-photometric distances to select a sample of likely bulge stars as those with RGC ≤ 3.5 kpc. We adopt magnesium abundance as an α-abundance proxy for our clean sample as it has been proven to be the most accurate α-element as determined by ASPCAP, the pipeline for data products from APOGEE spectra.

Results. From the distribution of our bulge sample in the [Mg/Fe]-versus-[Fe/H] plane, we found that the sequence is bimodal. This bimodality is given by the presence of a low-Mg sequence of stars parallel to the main high-Mg sequence over a range of ∼0.5 dex around solar metallicity. The two sequences merge above [Fe/H] ∼ 0.15 dex into a single sequence whose dispersion in [Mg/Fe] is larger than either of the two sequences visible at lower metallicity. This result is confirmed when we consider stars in our sample that are inside the bulge region according to trustworthy Gaia DR2 distances.
Intermediate shock sub-structures within a slow-mode shock occurring in partially ionised plasma
Authors: Snow B. , Hillier A.
Published: May 2019

Context. Slow-mode shocks are important in understanding fast magnetic reconnection, jet formation and heating in the solar atmosphere, and other astrophysical systems. The atmospheric conditions in the solar chromosphere allow both ionised and neutral particles to exist and interact. Under such conditions, fine sub-structures exist within slow-mode shocks due to the decoupling and recoupling of the plasma and neutral species.

Aims. We study numerically the fine sub-structure within slow-mode shocks in a partially ionised plasma, in particular, analysing the formation of an intermediate transition within the slow-mode shock.

Methods. High-resolution 1D numerical simulations were performed using the (PIP) code using a two-fluid approach.

Results. We discover that long-lived intermediate (Alfvén) shocks can form within the slow-mode shock, where there is a shock transition from above to below the Alfvén speed and a reversal of the magnetic field across the shock front. The collisional coupling provides frictional heating to the neutral fluid, resulting in a Sedov-Taylor-like expansion with overshoots in the neutral velocity and neutral density. The increase in density results in a decrease of the Alfvén speed and with this the plasma inflow is accelerated to above the Alfvén speed within the finite width of the shock leading to the intermediate transition. This process occurs for a wide range of physical parameters and an intermediate shock is present for all investigated values of plasma-β, neutral fraction, and magnetic angle. As time advances the magnitude of the magnetic field reversal decreases since the neutral pressure cannot balance the Lorentz force. The intermediate shock is long-lived enough to be considered a physical structure, independent of the initial conditions.

Conclusions. Intermediate shocks are a physical feature that can exist as shock sub-structure for long periods of time in partially ionised plasma due to collisional coupling between species.
Salvage endoscopic resection in patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma after chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Noordzij Irma C. , Curvers Wouter L. , Huysentruyt Clément J. , Nieuwenhuijzen Grard A.P. , Creemers Geert-Jan , van der Sangen Maurice J.C. , Schoon Erik J.
Published: May 2019

Background and study aims For early esophageal adenocarcinoma, endoscopic resection is an accepted curative treatment with an excellent long-term prognosis. Case series from Japan have reported endoscopic resection of residual esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after chemoradiotherapy. This is the first report describing endoscopic resection of residual esophageal adenocarcinoma after chemoradiotherapy. Two patients with advanced esophageal adenocarcinoma had been treated with chemoradiotherapy because comorbidity precluded esophageal resection. When residual tumor was observed endoscopically, complete remission was achieved by salvage endoscopic therapy alone or in combination with argon plasma coagulation (APC). Both patients achieved long-term sustained remission and died of non-tumor-related causes.
Earlier use of capsule endoscopy in inpatients with melena or severe iron deficiency anemia reduces need for colonoscopy and shortens hospital stay
Authors: Yung Diana E. , Koulaouzidis Anastasios , Douglas Sarah , Plevris John N.
Published: May 2019

Background and study aims Capsule endoscopy(CE) is a well-established investigation for iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and melena, usually following negative upper and lower endoscopy. We aimed to study the effect of earlier CE in the investigative pathway for inpatients with IDA or melena at a large tertiary referral centre.

Patients and methods We analyzed inpatients undergoing CE for IDA or melena from 2005 to 2017, without signs/symptoms suggesting lower gastrointestinal tract pathology. Patients underwent CE following negative upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy (Group 1), or negative upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE) only (Group 2).

Results One hundred and seventy inpatients underwent CE for IDA (n = 44) and melena (n = 126). In Group 1, 46/95 (48.4%) patients had small bowel (SB) findings. CE found 16/95 (16.8 %) gastric and 12/95 (12.6 %) colon findings. Three of 12 patients with colon findings required repeat colonoscopy. One hundred and three colon investigations were carried out for 95 admissions. In Group 2, 33/75 (44.0%) patients had SB findings. There were 12/75 (16.0 %) gastric and 11/75 (14.7 %) colon findings. In patients with positive CE, significant colonic findings led to colonoscopy in 10 of 39 patients (diagnostic yield 6/10). Thirty-six patients had negative CE; 15 underwent colonoscopy (diagnostic yield 9/15). The remaining 21 of 36 patients with no further colonoscopy did not develop adverse outcomes related to colonic pathology. Twenty-six colon investigations were carried out in 75 admissions. Patients in Group 2 had shorter mean times from admission to CE (5.08 ± 3.80 vs. 6.38 ± 3.80 days; P = 0.02) and hospital stays (10.5 ± 9.58 vs. 12.5 ± 11.4 days; P = 0.04) compared to Group 1.

Conclusion Earlier use of CE in inpatients with melena or IDA, no signs of lower gastrointestinal pathology and negative UGIE resulted in shortened hospital stays, significant DY from both small bowel and upper gastrointestinal tract, and two-thirds less unnecessary colon investigations without affecting clinical outcomes.
Colorectal cancer after negative colonoscopy in fecal immunochemical test-positive participants from a colorectal cancer screening program
Authors: Rivero-Sánchez Liseth , Grau Jaume , Augé Josep María , Moreno Lorena , Pozo Angels , Serradesanferm Anna , Díaz Mireia , Carballal Sabela , Sánchez Ariadna , Moreira Leticia , Balaguer Francesc , Pellisé Maria , Castells Antoni ,   on behalf of the PROCOLON group
Published: May 2019

Background and study aims Colorectal cancer (CRC) risk after a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and negative colonoscopy is unknown. We aimed to ascertain the cumulative incidence of post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer (PCCRC) and the manifestation of other lesions that could explain the test positivity in individuals with a negative colonoscopy in a population screening program.

Patients and method Observational study in participants from the first round of a CRC screening program (2010 – 2012) with positive-FIT (≥ 20 μg/g of feces) and negative colonoscopy (without neoplasia). A 42- to 76-month follow-up was performed searching in the National Health Service database and by a brief structured telephonic interview.

Results Of 2659 FIT-positive individuals who underwent colonoscopy, 811 (30.5 %) had a negative colonoscopy. Three PCCRC (0.4 %) were detected within 11 – 28 months and accelerated carcinogenesis was ruled out. Among those with normal colonoscopy, 32 (5 %) relevant lesions were detected at follow-up. One-third of them (11/32) were significant neoplasias: a gastric cancer, a small-bowel lymphoma, six advanced colorectal adenomas, and the three PCCRC. The 21 remaining lesions were inflammatory, vascular disorders, or non-advanced colorectal adenomas.

Conclusions The vast majority (95 %) of individuals did not present any subsequent lesion that could explain the FIT positivity. The very low incidence (0.4 %) and characteristics of PCCRC observed in our cohort reinforce the concept that, although a positive FIT preselects high risk individuals, a high quality colonoscopy is the paramount factor in preventing PCCRC. Improving quality standards of colonoscopy are required to strengthen the current CRC screening strategies.
Large adrenal cyst masquerading as a pancreatic cystic tumor: a rare diagnosis based on endoscopic ultrasound
Authors: Voudoukis Evangelos , Velegraki Magdalini , Khamaysi Iyad , Karoumpalis Ioannis , Kazamias Georgios , Fragaki Maria , Mastorakis Emmanouil , Paspatis Gregorios
Published: May 2019

Adrenal cystic lesions constitute a rare finding and usually are diagnosed incidentally as retroperitoneal cysts during imaging studies. A major issue, especially for the large-sized ones, is their preoperative diagnosis and management, as imaging modalities often fail to detect their exact origin prior to surgery. We report a case of a big adrenal cyst that was mistakenly diagnosed and followed up as pancreatic cystic tail tumor. Our thorough workup, which included endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), managed to delineate an adrenal gland-originated cyst and altered further management of the patient. According to our knowledge, this is the first report in literature in which EUS proved its superiority over other imaging studies in clarifying the origin of an ambiguous big retroperitoneal cyst. We believe that for cases of large retroperitoneal cystic lesions, EUS consists the optimal diagnostic and sampling tool.
Morphologische Charakteristika der Muskelbiopsie bei inflammatorischen Myopathien
Authors: Schänzer Anne , Goebel Hilmar , Stenzel Werner
Published: May 2019

Die Klassifizierung von immunvermittelten inflammatorischen Myopathien (IIM), häufig meist als Myositis bezeichnet, wurde in den letzten Jahren einem interessanten Wechsel unterzogen. Neben klinischen Befunden haben der Nachweis von Autoantikörpern und eine detaillierte morphologische Analyse der Muskelbiospie die Aussage für die Prognose der Erkrankung und damit die Therapieoption deutlich verbessert. Zum Beispiel gehen verschiedene Subtypen einer Dermatomyositis mit einem unterschiedlichen Risiko einer malignen Grunderkrankung oder einer extramuskulären Beteiligung einher. Daher ist eine genaue Einordnung der Pathologie von Skelettmuskelbiopsien unter Verwendung von Spezialfärbungen hilfreich. In dem folgenden Übersichtsartikel werden die wichtigsten Befunde der verschiedenen morphologischen Subtypen der IIM, insbesondere der Dermatomyositis und immunvermittelten nekrotisierenden Myopathie beschrieben und gegenüber anderen Entitäten abgegrenzt.
Shifting paradigms in the management of pediatric
differentiated thyroid cancer from static to dynamic risk stratification: a step
forward toward precision medicine
Authors: Ajdari Sadegh Ebrahim , Shafiei Babak , Motazedian Motahareh , Qutbi Mohsen , Esmaeilzadeh Paridokht , Asli Isa Neshandar , Javadi Hamid , Assadi Majid
Published: May 2019

Introduction This study aimed to assess the usefulness of a risk-adopted
management system known as dynamic risk stratification (DRS) in comparison with
the American (ATA) and European Thyroid Associations’ (ETA) risk classifications
in the management of pediatric patients with differentiated thyroid cancer
(DTC).

Materials and Methods The current study included 50 pediatric patients
with DTC who were treated with total or near total thyroidectomy and radioiodine
ablation whose risk assessment was initially defined according to the ATA and
ETA guidelines. During the two years after initial treatment, patients were
reclassified according to their DRS.

Results The study showed that the ability of the DRS system to predict the
final outcome was superior to that of the ATA and ETA guidelines. The observed
variance in predicting final outcome was 2.3 % for ETA, 14.8 % for ATA, and
83.4 % for DRS. In intermediate/high-risk patients, according to the ATA/ETA
guidelines, an excellent response to initial therapy resulted in a noteworthy
reduction (about 40 %) for detection of structural disease at the time of final
follow-up. The risk of structural disease at the time of final follow-up was
significantly higher in the structural incomplete response group (HR = 23.34,
P = 0.00) and biochemical incomplete response group (HR = 13.83, P = 0.03) than
in the excellent response group.

Conclusion The data documented the significance of re-stratifying
pediatric patients with DTC on the basis of the findings obtained at the time of
or after their initial therapy (total thyroidectomy and radioiodine ablation),
predominantly in the intermediate/high-risk patients. In addition, DRS helped to
better modulate the later follow-up, excluding a large number of
intermediate/high risk patients from needless intensive workups, allowing
personalization of follow-up management.
Role of Pharmacologic Paralysis in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Syed Ammar , Kobzik Alexander , Huang David
Published: May 2019

The pharmacology and history of neuromuscular blockade in clinical care are complex, with multiple theoretical and observed potential benefits and potential harms. Past studies raised concern for long-term paresis, but more recent studies have not found evidence for harm, possibly due to changes in background care, neuromuscular blocking agent, and duration of blockade. Current use is highly variable, likely due to limited evidence for efficacy beyond short-term physiologic improvement and lingering concerns for harm. A recently completed large multicenter trial will provide further information on the role of pharmacologic paralysis in acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Deconstructing ARDS Variability: Platelet Count, an ARDS Intermediate Phenotype and Novel Mediator of Genetic Effects in ARDS
Authors: Tejera Paula , Christiani David
Published: May 2019

Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have been hampered by the heterogeneity of the clinical phenotypes and the large sample size requirement. As the limitations of these studies to uncover the complex genetic architecture of ARDS are evident, new approaches intended to reduce data complexity need to be applied. Intermediate phenotypes are mechanism-related manifestations of the disease, located closer to the genetic substrate than to disease phenotype, and therefore able to reflect more directly and more strongly the effect of causal genes. The dissection of complex phenotypes into less complex intermediate phenotypes is a valuable strategy to facilitate the discovery of those genetic variants whose effect is not strong enough to be detected as markers of disease in traditional GWASs. Genetic causal inference methodologies can be then applied to estimate the implication of the intermediate trait in the causal circuit between genes and disease. By following this strategy, platelet count, a relevant intermediate quantitative trait in ARDS, has been recently identified as a novel mediator in the genetic contribution to ARDS risk and mortality. The use of intermediate phenotypes and causal inference are emerging methodological and statistical strategies that can help to overcome the limitations of traditional GWASs in ARDS. Moreover, these approaches can provide evidence for the mechanisms linking genes to ARDS and help to prioritize therapeutic targets for the treatment of this devastating syndrome.
Optimal Ventilator Strategies in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Sklar Michael , Patel Bhakti , Beitler Jeremy , Piraino Thomas , Goligher Ewan
Published: May 2019

Mechanical ventilation practices in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have progressed with a growing understanding of the disease pathophysiology. Paramount to the care of affected patients is the delivery of lung-protective mechanical ventilation which prioritizes tidal volume and plateau pressure limitation. Lung protection can probably be further enhanced by scaling target tidal volumes to the specific respiratory mechanics of individual patients. The best procedure for selecting optimal positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in ARDS remains uncertain; several relevant issues must be considered when selecting PEEP, particularly lung recruitability. Noninvasive ventilation must be used with caution in ARDS as excessively high respiratory drive can further exacerbate lung injury; newer modes of delivery offer promising approaches in hypoxemic respiratory failure. Airway pressure release ventilation offers an alternative approach to maximize lung recruitment and oxygenation, but clinical trials have not demonstrated a survival benefit of this mode over conventional ventilation strategies. Rescue therapy with high-frequency oscillatory ventilation is an important option in refractory hypoxemia. Despite a disappointing lack of benefit (and possible harm) in patients with moderate or severe ARDS, possibly due to lung hyperdistention and right ventricular dysfunction, high-frequency oscillation may improve outcome in patients with very severe hypoxemia.
Effect of temporally heterogeneous light on photosynthetic light use efficiency, plant acclimation and growth in Abatia parviflora
Authors: Rey-Sanchez Camilo , Posada Juan M.
Published: May 2019

Individual leaves have a unique instantaneous photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) at which net photosynthetic light use efficiency (ϵL, the ratio between net photosynthesis and PPFD) is maximised (PPFDϵmax). When PPFD is above or below PPFDϵmax, efficiency declines. Thus, we hypothesised that heterogeneous PPFD conditions should increase the amount of time leaves photosynthesise at a PPFD different than PPFDϵmax and result in reduced growth. To date, this prediction has not been rigorously tested. Here, we exposed seedlings of Abatia parviflora Ruiz & Pav to light regimes of equal total daily irradiance but with three different daily time courses of PPFD: constant PPFD (No_H), low heterogeneity (Low_H) and high heterogeneity (High_H). Mean ϵL, leaf daily photosynthesis and plant growth were all significantly higher in No_H and Low_H plants than in High_H plants, supporting our hypothesis. In addition, mean ϵL was positively related to final plant biomass. Unexpectedly, High_H plants had more etiolated stems and more horizontal leaves than No_H and Low_H plants, possibly due to exposure to low PPFD in the morning and afternoon. In conclusion, PPFD heterogeneity had an important effect on average ϵL, photosynthesis and growth, but also on allocation and plant morphology.
Gene cloning of the pink-colored protein from Pleurotus salmoneostramineus (PsPCP) and its species-specific chromoprotein are effective for colorization of the fruit body
Authors: Fukuta Yasuhisa , Kamei Kengo , Matsui Aoi , Fuji Yosuke , Onuma Hiroki , Shirasaka Norifumi
Published: May 2019

Pleurotus salmoneostramineus is a pink mushroom. This pink color is a protein and forms a complex with 3H-indol-3-one. The gene encoding the pink-colored protein from P. salmoneostramineus (PsPCP) was cloned, and its sequence was elucidated as a 681-bp. The ORF encodes 226 amino acid residues. The amino acid sequence of the protein did not show any significant homology in the DDBJ/EMBL/GenBank databases. Recombinant PsPCP was expressed as the soluble form in E. coli. The reaction mixture of purified recombinant PsPCP and 3H-indol-3-one showed a pink color as the native pigment. A real-time PCR analysis revealed the strong expression of PsPCP in the primordium formation stage of the life cycle of the fungus; however, its expression decreased with the maturation of the fruit body. A comparison of PsPCP gene expression profiles between two strains revealed high levels in the dark-colored strain.
Maltobionic acid enhances intestinal absorption of calcium and magnesium in rats
Authors: Suehiro Daiki , Okada Misato , Fukami Ken , Nakagawa Tomoyuki , Hayakawa Takashi
Published: May 2019

In Experiment 1, the effects of calcium maltobionate (MBCa) on calcium and magnesium absorption were examined using male rats. Four diets were designed in which 25%, 50%, and 100% of calcium carbonate (CaCO3, Control) were substituted with MBCa and were designated as MBCa-25, MBCa-50, and MBCa-100, respectively. The cecal concentration of short-chain fatty acids was significantly higher in groups MBCa-50 and MBCa-100; however, pH of cecal contents did not significantly differ among the groups. Retention rates of calcium and magnesium were significantly higher in all MBCa groups as compared to the Control. In Experiment 2, the efficiency of calcium absorption was compared using everted sacs of jejunum and ileum with CaCO3 and MBCa as calcium sources. More calcium from MBCa was absorbed as the concentration of calcium increased in comparison to CaCO3. It was concluded that MBCa is a better calcium source than CaCO3 in terms of both calcium retention and absorption.

Abbreviations: ANOVA: analysis of variance; Ca: Calcium; CaCO3: calcium carbonate; ICP-OES: Inductivity coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer; Mg: magnesium; MBCa: calcium maltobionate; OCPC: o-cresolphthalein complexone; SCFAs: short-chain fatty acids; SE: standard error; TRPM6: transient receptor potential melastatin 6.
A note on inequalities for the ratio of zero-balanced hypergeometric functions
Authors: Richards Kendall
Published: May 2019

Motivated by a question suggested by M. E. H. Ismail in 2017, we present sharp inequalities for the ratio of zero-balanced Gaussian hypergeometric functions. The main theorems generalize known results for complete elliptic integrals of the first kind.
High-Expression HBO1 Predicts Poor Prognosis in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wang Yan , Chen Sufang , Tian Wei , Zhang Qing , Jiang Chunyi , Qian Li , Liu Ying
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Our goal was to assess the expression of histone acetyltransferase binding to origin recognition complex 1 (HBO1) in gastric cancer and the effect on prognosis for the patients.

Methods

We used quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and tissue microarray immunohistochemistry to investigate the expressions of HBO1 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein in gastric cancer tissues. Online resources, including Oncomine and Kaplan-Meier Plotter, were used to further assess the correlation between HBO1 expression and the prognosis of the patients with gastric cancer.

Results

HBO1 mRNA and protein expressions in gastric cancer tissues were both significantly higher than those in normal tissues. The correlations between high HBO1 expression and differentiation, invasive depth (T), lymph node metastasis (N), distant metastasis (M), TNM staging, and serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels were positive. High HBO1 expression was negatively correlated with survival time in patients with gastric cancer.

Conclusions

HBO1 might be a valuable biomarker to evaluate the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer.
Influences of Age, Gender, and Body Mass Index on the Thickness of the Abdominal Fatty Layers and its Relevance for Abdominal Liposuction and Abdominoplasty
Authors: Frank Konstantin , Hamade Hassan , Casabona Gabriela , Gotkin Robert H , Kaye Kai O , Tiryaki Tunc , Freytag David L , Bialowas Christie , Koban Konstantin C , Cotofana Sebastian
Published: May 2019

Background

Liposuction and lipoabdominoplasty procedures frequently involve the treatment of the superficial and deep fatty layers of the abdomen.

Objectives

The aim of the present investigation was to provide comprehensive data on the thickness of the abdominal fatty layers in relation to age, gender, and body mass index (BMI).

Methods

The study investigated 150 Caucasian individuals; there was an equal distribution of males and females (each n = 75) and a balanced distribution of age (n = 30 per decade: 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, and 60–69 years) and BMI (n = 50 per group: BMI ≤24.9, 25.0–29.9, and ≥30 kg/m2). Ultrasound-based measurements of the superficial and deep abdominal fatty layers were performed.

Results

An increase in BMI was associated with an increase in total abdominal wall fat thickness. The measured increase was related more to the thickness of the deep fatty layer than to the thickness of the superficial fatty layer (Z = 1.80, P = 0.036). An increase in age was associated with a decrease in thickness of the superficial fatty layer (rp = –0.104, P = 0.071) but with an increase in thickness of the deep fatty layer (rp = 0.197, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Age and BMI can change the thickness of both the superficial and deep fatty layers of the anterior abdominal wall, thus influencing the plan and conduct of cosmetic surgical procedures. Knowledge of the layered anatomy of the anterior abdominal wall, as well as its associated blood supply, is important for surgeons performing procedures in this area.
CaverDock: a molecular docking-based tool to analyse ligand transport through protein tunnels and channels
Authors: Vavra Ondrej , Filipovic Jiri , Plhak Jan , Bednar David , Marques Sergio M , Brezovsky Jan , Stourac Jan , Matyska Ludek , Damborsky Jiri
Published: May 2019

Motivation

Protein tunnels and channels are key transport pathways that allow ligands to pass between proteins’ external and internal environments. These functionally important structural features warrant detailed attention. It is difficult to study the ligand binding and unbinding processes experimentally, while molecular dynamics simulations can be time-consuming and computationally demanding.

Results

CaverDock is a new software tool for analysing the ligand passage through the biomolecules. The method uses the optimized docking algorithm of AutoDock Vina for ligand placement docking and implements a parallel heuristic algorithm to search the space of possible trajectories. The duration of the simulations takes from minutes to a few hours. Here we describe the implementation of the method and demonstrate CaverDock’s usability by: (i) comparison of the results with other available tools, (ii) determination of the robustness with large ensembles of ligands and (iii) the analysis and comparison of the ligand trajectories in engineered tunnels. Thorough testing confirms that CaverDock is applicable for the fast analysis of ligand binding and unbinding in fundamental enzymology and protein engineering.

Availability and implementation

User guide and binaries for Ubuntu are freely available for non-commercial use at https://loschmidt.chemi.muni.cz/caverdock/. The web implementation is available at https://loschmidt.chemi.muni.cz/caverweb/. The source code is available upon request.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Design of order-of-addition experiments
Authors: Peng Jiayu , Mukerjee Rahul , Lin Dennis K J
Published: May 2019

In an order-of-addition experiment, each treatment is a permutation of $m$ components. It is often unaffordable to test all the $m!$ possible treatments, and thus the design problem arises. We consider a flexible model that incorporates the order of each pair of components and can also account for the distance between the two components in every such pair. Under this model, the optimality of the uniform design measure is established, via the approximate theory, for a broad range of criteria. Coupled with an eigenanalysis, this result serves as a benchmark that paves the way for assessing the efficiency and robustness of any exact design. The closed-form construction of a class of robust optimal fractional designs that can also facilitate model selection is explored and illustrated.
Catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy in a patient with pheochromocytoma and polycystic kidney and liver disease: a case report
Authors: Sedaia Ecaterina , Esanu Andrei , Ivanov Victoria , Dumanschi Carolina , Moiseeva Ana , Abraș Marcel , Eugen Calenici , Tatiana Globa
Published: May 2019

Background

Clinical manifestations of pheochromocytoma (PCC) frequently are not specific and can be attributed to other pathologies. The most dreaded manifestation is catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy. A prompt diagnosis, sometimes extremely problematic due to associated conditions of the patient, is essential for clinical outcomes, because early resection of PCC may prevent progression to irreversible cardiac remodelling.

Case summary

We present a case of 47-year-old woman with suspected acute coronary syndrome but intact coronary vessels. Electrocardiogram examination showed ST depression suggestive for coronary ischaemia. Echocardiography revealed reduced ejection fraction of left ventricle and global hypokinesis. Abdominal ultrasound examination determined multiple cysts in liver and both kidneys. The patient had unclear transient states of sudden sweating, pale skin, nausea, and vomiting accompanied by hypertensive crisis. Fractioned urinary metanephrines were considerably increased. Contrasted computed tomography of abdominal cavity and pelvis revealed in both liver lobes many cysts; both kidneys showed multiple cysts too; in the right adrenal gland was detected a filling defect. Computed tomography findings have established diagnosis of adrenal PCC of right gland associated with liver and kidney polycystic disease.

Discussion

Phechromocytoma, with primary manifestation as catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy, in patient with polycystic kidney and liver disease could represent a really challenging diagnosis. Clinical manifestations of PCC frequently are not specific and can be explained by associated pathologies. This is the second case of adrenalectomy due to PCC associated with polycystic kidney and liver disease reported in the medical literature.
Alcohol’s harms to others: the self-rated health of those with a heavy drinker in their lives
Authors: Bloomfield Kim , Jensen Heidi A R , Ekholm Ola
Published: May 2019

Background

Studies have examined the self-rated health (SRH) of the drinker, but only few have examined the health of those affected by a heavy drinker. This Nordic study aimed to examine the association between exposure to heavy drinkers and SRH.

Methods

Data come from surveys from the five Nordic countries that participated in the Reducing Alcohol-Related Harm Standardized European Survey in 2015 (n = 7065 aged 18–64 years). Variables included a five-point Likert-scale question on one’s SRH, a question on whether the respondent knew a heavy drinker in the last 12 months, and covariates. The ‘fair’, ‘poor’ and ‘very poor’ response categories were combined and are referred to as poor SRH. Multiple logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between knowing a heavy drinker and one’s SRH.

Results

Country-pooled adjusted analyses showed a significant relationship between knowing (and being negatively affected by) a heavy drinker and poor SRH [odds ratios (OR) = 1.39, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.02–1.89 for heavy drinker in household; OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.07–1.42 for other known heavy drinker, compared to not knowing a heavy drinker or knowing a heavy drinker, but not being negatively affected]. A graded relationship appeared such that increasing proximity of the known heavy drinker increased likelihood to report poor SRH.

Conclusion

Knowing and being negatively affected by someone close who drinks heavily increases the likelihood of reporting poor SRH. These results have implications for public health messaging regarding the well-being of relatives of heavy drinkers.
How to choose the most appropriate technique for the single-stage treatment of cholecysto-choledocolithiasis?
Authors: Bove Aldo , Panaccio Paolo , di Renzo Raffaella , Palone Gino , Ricciardiello Marco , Ciuffreda Sara , Bongarzoni Giuseppe
Published: May 2019

Background

We utilized transcystic clearance and intra-operative papillotomy through a rendezvous technique for the treatment of cholecysto-choledocolithiasis. The goal of this study was to evaluate the reliability of pre-operative parameters to address the most suitable surgical procedure.

Methods

A total of 180 patients affected by calculi of the gallbladder and bile duct underwent the single-stage treatment. According to several pre-operative parameters, 141 patients had to supposedly undergo transcystic clearance of the bile duct, while 39 patients had to be treated with the rendezvous technique. All patients were treated with the sequential procedure: first, we tried the transcystic procedure and, if there was a failure, we used a rendezvous technique. We prospectively analysed each group based on a series of variables such as sex, age, operative time, success rate of proposed treatment, conversion rate, post-operative complications and hospital stay.

Results

Transcystic clearance was successful in 134 out of 141 patients (95.0%), while 2 patients needed to undergo a laparo-endoscopy procedure (failure). Thirty-five out of 39 patients (89.7%) obtained common bile-duct (CBD) clearance through the rendezvous technique, while 1 patient obtained clean-up through the simple transcystic procedure (failure). Five out of 141 patients with transcystic clearance and 3 out of 39 patients with the rendezvous technique underwent laparotomy CBD clearance with conversion rates of 3.5% and 7.7%, respectively. Post-operative complications showed similar percentages for both procedures. However, the surgical time turned out to be longer for the rendezvous technique.

Conclusions

The one-stage procedure for the treatment of cholecysto-choledocolithiasis was possible in 94% of the cases utilizing a surgical technique selected according to the patient’s case history. The pre-operative parameters, such as jaundice, CBD diameters and stone diameters, have certified their reliability as good predictors of the most suitable procedure to follow.
10-Minute Targeted Geriatric Assessment Predicts Disability and Hospitalization in Fast-Paced Acute Care Settings
Authors: Aliberti Márlon J R , Covinsky Kenneth E , Apolinario Daniel , Smith Alexander K , Lee Sei J , Fortes-Filho Sileno Q , Melo Juliana A , Souza Natalia P S , Avelino-Silva Thiago J , Jacob-Filho Wilson
Published: May 2019

Background

Limited time and resources hinder the use of comprehensive geriatric assessment in acute contexts. We investigated the predictive value of a 10-minute targeted geriatric assessment (10-TaGA) for adverse outcomes over 6 months among acutely ill older outpatients.

Methods

Prospective study comprising 819 acutely ill outpatients (79.2 ± 8.4 years; 63% women) in need of intensive management (eg, intravenous therapy, laboratory test, radiology) to avoid hospitalization. The 10-TaGA provided a validated measure of cumulative deficits. Previously established 10-TaGA cutoffs defined low (0–0.29), medium (0.30–0.39), and high (0.40–1) risks. To estimate whether 10-TaGA predicts new dependence in activities of daily living and hospitalization over the next 6 months, we used hazard models (considering death as competing risk) adjusted for standard risk factors (sociodemographic factors, Charlson comorbidity index, and physician estimates of risk). Differences among areas under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROC) examined whether 10-TaGA improves outcome discrimination when added to standard risk factors.

Results

Medium- and high-risk patients, according to 10-TaGA, presented a higher incidence of new activities of daily living dependence (21% vs 7%, adjusted subhazard ratio [aHR] = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.3–4.5; 40% vs 7%, aHR = 5.0, 95% CI = 2.8–8.7, respectively) and hospitalization (27% vs 13%, aHR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.2–3.3; 37% vs 13%, aHR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.8–4.6, respectively) than low-risk patients. The 10-TaGA remarkably improved the discrimination of models that incorporated standard risk factors to predict new activities of daily living dependence (AUROC = 0.76 vs 0.71, p < .001) and hospitalization (AUROC = 0.71 vs 0.68, p < .001).

Conclusions

The 10-TaGA is a practical and efficient comprehensive geriatric assessment tool that improves the prediction of adverse outcomes among acutely ill older outpatients.
The Five W’s of Falls: Weekly Online Health Survey of Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Analysis of 4 Years Prospective Follow-up
Authors: Piau Antoine , Mattek Nora , Duncan Colette , Sharma Nicole , Riley Thomas , Kaye Jeffrey
Published: May 2019

Background

An in-depth examination of prospectively collected falls details may facilitate more effective falls prevention. Who was involved? What happened? Where did the fall take place? When did it happen? Why did it occur? This study aimed to provide previously unavailable details about the circumstances surrounding fall events and their consequences.

Method

A retrospective analysis of falls prospectively self-reported by older adults via an online weekly health form over 4 years.

Results

We collected 371 falls during the 4 year time period from 120 clinically characterized fallers (74% women, mean age 83.3 years). Most of the 371 falls occurred indoors (62%) and in well-lit areas (81%). Bedrooms were the most common places for in-home falls. Commonly observed precipitating factors included loss of balance, slipping or tripping. Almost one-third (31%) of falls were defined as injurious whereas 22% resulted in a change in the walking ability of which 26% led to the use of a cane or walker. Among falls that did not give rise to any formal health care intervention, 8% resulted in a modification of walking ability.

Conclusions

A relatively high rate of fall-related injuries compared to the existing literature was observed. Online weekly surveys and the richness of details provided through these data capture method allowed us to identify falls that did not result in health care utilization but did result in decreased mobility. This finding suggests why some falls classified in the literature as noninjurious may nevertheless increase the risk of loss of autonomy and undesired outcomes.