bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Power quality and stability analysis of large‐scale grid‐connected photovoltaic system considering non‐linear effects
Authors: Zhang Qianjin , Zhou Lin , Mao Mingxuan , Xie Bao , Zheng Chen
Published: May 2018

This study proposes to incorporate the non‐linear factors, such as dead time and phase‐locked loop (PLL), into the impedance model of large‐scale grid‐connected photovoltaic (PV) system and investigates their influence on the system power quality and stability considering the variation of PV capacity. The fundamental component of dead‐time voltage can influence the inverter output impedance. The harmonics also have a vital effect on system power quality, especially when the inverter output admittance matches with the grid admittance. The increase of PV capacity can lower the influence of dead time on system phase margin, but may cause serious magnification of certain dead‐time harmonics. PLL can make the system asymmetric and brings about the frequency coupling effect. The complex vectors and the transfer function matrix are used to convert the model of PLL from dq‐ to αβ‐axis. The generalised Nyquist stability criterion is utilised to analyse the system stability. The variations of controller parameters in PLL can make the system oscillate. The increase of PV capacity may intensify this effect. Even the stable controller parameters are adopted, large PV capacity can trigger the system oscillation. Finally, the correctness of the theory is verified by simulation analysis and experiment.
Dye‐sensitised solar cell utilising gold doped reduced graphene oxide counter electrode: influence of annealing time
Authors: Rahman Mohd. Yusri Abd. , Sulaiman Amirul Shafiq , Umar Akrajas Ali
Published: May 2018

Gold doped reduced graphene oxide (rGO) films prepared via hummer method have been utilised as counter electrode of dye‐sensitised solar cell. The samples were subjected to various annealing times at 120°C. The effect of annealing time on the dark current and photovoltaic performance has been investigated. The power conversion efficiency varies with annealing time. The highest efficiency of 0.155% was achieved by the device utilising gold doped rGO annealed for 45 min. This is due to the device employing this sample possesses the smallest leak current.
The optical/NIR afterglow of GRB 111209A: Complex yet not unprecedented
Authors: Kann D. A. , Schady P. , Olivares E. F. , Klose S. , Rossi A. , Perley D. A. , Zhang B. , Krühler T. , Greiner J. , Nicuesa Guelbenzu A. , Elliott J. , Knust F. , Cano Z. , Filgas R. , Pian E. , Mazzali P. , Fynbo J. P. U. , Leloudas G. , Afonso P. M. J. , Delvaux C. , Graham J. F. , Rau A. , Schmidl S. , Schulze S. , Tanga M. , Updike A. C. , Varela K.
Published: May 2018

Context. Afterglows of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are simple in the most basic model, but can show many complex features. The ultra-long duration GRB 111209A, one of the longest GRBs ever detected, also has the best-monitored afterglow in this rare class of GRBs.

Aims. We want to address the question whether GRB 111209A was a special event beyond its extreme duration alone, and whether it is a classical GRB or another kind of high-energy transient. The afterglow may yield significant clues.

Methods. We present afterglow photometry obtained in seven bands with the GROND imager as well as in further seven bands with the Ultraviolet/Optical Telescope (UVOT) on-board the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. The light curve is analysed by multi-band modelling and joint fitting with power-laws and broken power-laws, and we use the contemporaneous GROND data to study the evolution of the spectral energy distribution. We compare the optical afterglow to a large ensemble we have analysed in earlier works, and especially to that of another ultra-long event, GRB 130925A. We furthermore undertake a photometric study of the host galaxy.

Results. We find a strong, chromatic rebrightening event at ≈0.8 days after the GRB, during which the spectral slope becomes redder. After this, the light curve decays achromatically, with evidence for a break at about 9 days after the trigger. The afterglow luminosity is found to not be exceptional. We find that a double-jet model is able to explain the chromatic rebrightening. The afterglow features have been detected in other events and are not unique.

Conclusions. The duration aside, the GRB prompt emission and afterglow parameters of GRB 111209A are in agreement with the known distributions for these parameters. While the central engine of this event may differ from that of classical GRBs, there are multiple lines of evidence pointing to GRB 111209A resulting from the core-collapse of a massive star with a stripped envelope.
X-ray, UV, and optical observations of the accretion disk and boundary layer in the symbiotic star RT Crucis
Authors: Luna G. J. M. , Mukai K. , Sokoloski J. L. , Lucy A. B. , Cusumano G. , Segreto A. , Jaque Arancibia M. , Nuñez N. E. , Puebla R. E. , Nelson T. , Walter F.
Published: May 2018

Compared to mass transfer in cataclysmic variables, the nature of accretion in symbiotic binaries in which red giants transfer material to white dwarfs (WDs) has been difficult to uncover. The accretion flows in a symbiotic binary are most clearly observable, however, when there is no quasi-steady shell burning on the WD to hide them. RT Cru is the prototype of such non-burning symbiotics, with its hard (δ-type) X-ray emission providing a view of its innermost accretion structures. In the past 20 yr, RT Cru has experienced two similar optical brightening events, separated by ~4000 days and with amplitudes of ΔV ~ 1.5 mag. After Swift became operative, the Burst Alert Telescope (BAT) detector revealed a hard X-ray brightening event almost in coincidence with the second optical peak. Spectral and timing analyses of multi-wavelength observations that we describe here, from NuSTAR, Suzaku, Swift/X-Ray Telescope (XRT) + BAT + UltraViolet Optical Telescope (UVOT) (photometry) and optical photometry and spectroscopy, indicate that accretion proceeds through a disk that reaches down to the WD surface. The scenario in which a massive, magnetic WD accretes from a magnetically truncated accretion disk is not supported. For example, none of our data show the minute-time-scale periodic modulations (with tight upper limits from X-ray data) expected from a spinning, magnetic WD. Moreover, the similarity of the UV and X-ray fluxes, as well as the approximate constancy of the hardness ratio within the BAT band, indicate that the boundary layer of the accretion disk remained optically thin to its own radiation throughout the brightening event, during which the rate of accretion onto the WD increased to 6.7 × 10−9M⊙ yr−1 (d/2 kpc)2. For the first time from a WD symbiotic, the NuSTAR spectrum showed a Compton reflection hump at E > 10 keV, due to hard X-rays from the boundary layer reflecting off of the surface of the WD; the reflection amplitude was 0.77 ± 0.21. The best fit spectral model, including reflection, gave a maximum post-shock temperature of kT = 53 ± 4 keV, which implies a WD mass of 1.25 ± 0.02 M⊙. Although the long-term optical variability in RT Cru is reminiscent of dwarf-novae-type outbursts, the hard X-ray behavior does not correspond to that observed in well-known dwarf nova. An alternative explanation for the brightening events could be that they are due to an enhancement of the accretion rate as the WD travels through the red giant wind in a wide orbit, with a period of about ~4000 days. In either case, the constancy of the hard X-ray spectrum while the accretion rate rose suggests that the accretion-rate threshold between a mostly optically thin and thick boundary layer, in this object, may be higher than previously thought.
Invariant solutions and shock atmospheric waves in a thin circular layer
Authors: Ibragimov Nail H. , Ibragimov Ranis N. , Kovalev Vladimir F.
Published: May 2018

The objective of this paper is to investigate the nonlinear mathematical model describing equatorial waves from Lie group analysis point of view in order to understand the nature of shallow water model theory, which is associated to planetary equatorial waves. Such waves correspond to the Cauchy–Poisson free boundary problem on the nonstationary motion of a perfect incompressible fluid circulating around a solid circle of a large radius.
Update Augenheilkunde – Amblyopie und Refraktionsfehler
Authors: Joachimsen Lutz , Gross Nikolai , Lagrèze Wolf
Published: May 2018

Der folgende Beitrag stellt zwei aktuelle Themen der Kinderophthalmologie in den Fokus, die vermutlich auch immer wieder in der kinder- und jugendärztlichen Praxis relevant sein werden: die Amblyopie und ihre Früherkennung inklusive Videorefraktometrie und Refraktionsfehler im Schulkindalter mit Fokus auf Myopie, deren Häufigkeit weltweit zunimmt
Enabling the Rearrangement of Unactivated Allenes to 1,3-Dienes by Use of a Palladium (0)/Boric Acid System
Authors: Kimber Marc , Al-Jawaheri Yassir , Turner Matthew
Published: May 2018

A redox neutral rearrangement of an allene to a 1,3-diene by means of a unique palladium hydride complex is reported. The palladium hydride complex is generated from a simple Pd0 source and boric acid [B(OH)3], which is typically identified as a waste by-product of the Suzuki–Miyaura reaction. A mechanism for this transformation using this novel palladium hydride complex is presented; using a direct sample loop and flow injection ESI-HRMS analysis we have detected and identified key π-allylpalladium complexes that support the addition of the palladium hydride complex to the allene.
Safe Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in a Patient with a Highly Mobile Aortic Valve Mass
Authors: Agbor-Etang Brian , Mukherjee Ashis , Sethi Prabhdeep , Pai Ramdas
Published: May 2018

Some cardiac valve masses may have embolic potential with worrisome consequences. We describe the dilemmas of and solutions for a highly mobile papillary fibroelastoma on the aortic valve in a nonsurgical patient undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement. It was performed safely. The potential strategies to minimize the risk of embolization are discussed.
Kardioanästhesie: Monitoring und aktuelle hämodynamische Konzepte
Authors: Heringlake Matthias , Schmidt Christian , Brandt Sebastian
Published: May 2018

Die Krankheitsschwere herzchirurgischer Patienten und die Komplexität der Eingriffe haben in den letzten Jahren deutlich zugenommen. Dies stellt nicht nur erhöhte Anforderungen an die neurologische und hämodynamische Überwachung, sondern macht es auch erforderlich, die hämodynamische Therapie – unter Berücksichtigung aktueller pharmakologischer Entwicklungen – individuell dem höheren Risikoprofil der Patienten anzupassen.
Wirksamkeit psychologischer Interventionen zur Reduktion des Tabakkonsums
Authors: Atzendorf Josefine , de Matos Elena , Piontek Daniela
Published: May 2018

Die Mehrheit der Raucher in Deutschland hat eine geringe Aufhörmotivation. Als Alternative zur Tabakabstinenz kann der Tabakkonsum reduziert werden. Die vorliegende Arbeit gibt einen systematischen Überblick über den aktuellen Forschungsstand zur Wirksamkeit psychologischer Interventionen zur Reduktion des Tabakkonsums. Es wird gezeigt, dass psychologische Interventionen trotz heterogener Befunde den Tabakkonsum stichprobenübergreifend sowohl kurz- als auch langfristig reduzieren können. Vielversprechende Ergebnisse lieferten u. a. Interventionen mit Kurzberatungen und motivierenden Gesprächen.
Nonlinear interaction of an intense radio wave with ionospheric D/E layer plasma
Authors: Sodha Mahendra Singh , Agarwal Sujeet Kumar
Published: May 2018

This paper considers the nonlinear interaction of an intense electromagnetic wave with the D/E layer plasma in the ionosphere. A simultaneous solution of the electromagnetic wave equation and the equations describing the kinetics of D/E layer plasma is obtained; the phenomenon of ohmic heating of electrons by the electric field of the wave causes enhanced collision frequency and ionization of neutral species. Electron temperature dependent recombination of electrons with ions, electron attachment to O2 molecules, and detachment of electrons from O2− ions has also been taken into account. The dependence of the plasma parameters on the square of the electric vector of the wave E02 has been evaluated for three ionospheric heights (viz., 90, 100, and 110 km) corresponding to the mid-latitude mid-day ionosphere and discussed; these results are used to investigate the horizontal propagation of an intense radio wave at these heights.
Critical thickness for spin wave-assisted switching of magnetization in a perpendicularly magnetized nanomagnet
Authors: Yamaji T. , Imamura H.
Published: May 2018

The magnetization switching in a perpendicularly magnetized nanomagnet by applying a circularly polarized rf field is analyzed as a function of the thickness (d) of the specimen using an effective one-dimensional model. It is found that there exist two kinds of critical thicknesses, dc1 and dc2 (≥dc1). When d < dc1, the switching mode is uniform type which is well described by a macro-spin model. On the other hand, when dc1 ≤ d < dc2, the switching mode is non-uniform type, whereas the rf frequency dependence of the switching field is the same as the one with d < dc1. In the case of d ≥ dc2, the critical rf frequency at which the switching field takes a minimum value, increases. The results indicate that the switching field is more effectively reduced than the conventional microwave-assisted switching.
An experimental system for coiled tubing partial underbalanced drilling (CT-PUBD) technique
Authors: Shi H. Z. , Ji Z. S. , Zhao H. Q. , Chen Z. L. , Zhang H. Z.
Published: May 2018

To improve the rate of penetration (ROP) in hard formations, a new high-speed drilling technique called Coiled Tubing Partial Underbalanced Drilling (CT-PUBD) is proposed. This method uses a rotary packer to realize an underbalanced condition near the bit by creating a micro-annulus and an overbalanced condition at the main part of the annulus. A new full-scale laboratory experimental system is designed and set up to study the hydraulic characteristics and drilling performance of this method. The system is composed of a drilling system, circulation system, and monitor system, including three key devices, namely, cuttings discharge device, rotary packer, and backflow device. The experimental results showed that the pressure loss increased linearly with the flow rate of the drilling fluid. The high drilling speed of CT-PUBD proved it a better drilling method than the conventional drilling. The experimental system may provide a fundamental basis for the research of CT-PUBD, and the results proved that this new method is feasible in enhancing ROP and guaranteeing the drilling safety.
Storage and retrieval of electromagnetic waves using electromagnetically induced transparency in a nonlinear metamaterial
Authors: Nakanishi Toshihiro , Kitano Masao
Published: May 2018

We investigate the storage and retrieval of electromagnetic waves using a nonlinear metamaterial, analogous to the electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) observed in atomic systems. We experimentally demonstrate the storage of the electromagnetic wave by reducing an auxiliary “control” wave; the stored wave is then released by recovering the control wave. We also confirm that the metamaterial can store and reproduce the phase distribution of the original input wave. These effects confirm a remarkable analogy between the metamaterial and an atomic EIT medium.
Effects of die shape on polymer processing characterized in a new light
Authors: Liebendorfer Adam
Published: May 2018

A new technique using capillary rheometry enables effective analyses of processed polymer in the lab before entering production use.
Quantum yield of Egyptian-blue IR phosphors calculated using temperature changes in sunlight
Authors: Michaud Sarah
Published: May 2018

Novel method for determining quantum yields of Egyptian-blue IR phosphors from temperature measurements in sunlight helps evaluate the phosphors’ potential use in luminescent solar concentrators.
Venturing deep into water’s no man’s land
Authors: Liebendorfer Adam
Published: May 2018

Based on recent experimental data from a little-understood region of water’s phase diagram, researchers found further evidence of where water’s liquid-liquid critical point resides.
Oxidation protection of (ZrTa)B2–SiC–Si coating for graphite materials
Authors: Jiang Yan , Wang Wei , Ru Hongqiang
Published: May 2018

To protect graphite materials from oxidation, a dense (ZrTa)B2–SiC–Si coating was for the first time prepared on graphite substrate by slurry dipping and vapour silicon infiltration process. (ZrTa)B2 phase was synthesised by in-situ reaction using ZrC, TaC, B4C, phenolic resin and Si as raw materials. The phase compositions and microstructure of the obtained coating were analysed by XRD and SEM. The isothermal oxidation tests demonstrated that the in-situ coating had excellent oxidation resistance ability, after oxidation for 468 and 347 h at 1273 and 1773 K, respectively, the weight gains were 0.07% and 0.33%, respectively. No signs of oxidation of graphite substrate were found after oxidation, and two layers could be observed in the coating, namely, oxide layer containing Zr and Ta oxides and (ZrTa)B2–SiC–Si layer. A model for the evolution of the oxide layer was proposed to interpret the oxidation failure mechanism of the coating.
Lack of rule of law as a push factor leading to violent radicalization in the North Caucasus (2002–2015)
Authors: Tarín-Sanz Adrián , Ter-Ferrer Marta
Published: May 2018

Following the collapse of the USSR, a violent jihadist organization called the Caucasus Emirate emerged in Russia, before subsequently splitting up in 2015 when most of its members swore allegiance to the Islamic State. The root causes of violent radicalization are complex but, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), there are certain universal “push factors”: perceptions of injustice, human rights violations, lack of rule of law, social-political exclusion and widespread corruption. Since all the factors coincide in the North Caucasus, the hypothesis of this study is that the lack of rule of law has been one of the main push factors leading to violent extremism in the specific case of the Republic of Ingushetia.
The transcription factor Bhlhe40 is a switch of inflammatory versus antiinflammatory Th1 cell fate determination
Authors: Yu Fang , Sharma Suveena , Jankovic Dragana , Gurram Rama Krishna , Su Pan , Hu Gangqing , Li Rao , Rieder Sadiye , Zhao Keji , Sun Bing , Zhu Jinfang
Published: May 2018

Type 1 T helper (Th1) cells play a critical role in host defense against intracellular pathogens and in autoimmune diseases by producing a key inflammatory cytokine interferon (IFN)–γ; some Th1 cells can also be antiinflammatory through producing IL-10. However, the molecular switch for regulating the differentiation of inflammatory and antiinflammatory Th1 cells is still elusive. Here, we show that Bhlhe40-deficient CD4 Th1 cells produced less IFN-γ but substantially more IL-10 than wild-type Th1 cells both in vitro and in vivo. Bhlhe40-mediated IFN-γ production was independent of transcription factor T-bet regulation. Mice with conditional deletion of Bhlhe40 in T cells succumbed to Toxoplasma gondii infection, and blockade of IL-10 signaling during infection rescued these mice from death. Thus, our results demonstrate that transcription factor Bhlhe40 is a molecular switch for determining the fate of inflammatory and antiinflammatory Th1 cells.
Bhlhe40 is an essential repressor of IL-10 during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Authors: Huynh Jeremy P. , Lin Chih-Chung , Kimmey Jacqueline M. , Jarjour Nicholas N. , Schwarzkopf Elizabeth A. , Bradstreet Tara R. , Shchukina Irina , Shpynov Oleg , Weaver Casey T. , Taneja Reshma , Artyomov Maxim N. , Edelson Brian T. , Stallings Christina L.
Published: May 2018

The cytokine IL-10 antagonizes pathways that control Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. Nevertheless, the impact of IL-10 during Mtb infection has been difficult to decipher because loss-of-function studies in animal models have yielded only mild phenotypes. We have discovered that the transcription factor basic helix-loop-helix family member e40 (Bhlhe40) is required to repress Il10 expression during Mtb infection. Loss of Bhlhe40 in mice results in higher Il10 expression, higher bacterial burden, and early susceptibility similar to that observed in mice lacking IFN-γ. Deletion of Il10 in Bhlhe40−/− mice reverses these phenotypes. Bhlhe40 deletion in T cells or CD11c+ cells is sufficient to cause susceptibility to Mtb. Bhlhe40 represents the first transcription factor found to be essential during Mtb infection to specifically regulate Il10 expression, revealing the importance of strict control of IL-10 production by innate and adaptive immune cells during infection. Our findings uncover a previously elusive but significant role for IL-10 in Mtb pathogenesis.
PANDA-view: an easy-to-use tool for statistical analysis and visualization of quantitative proteomics data
Authors: Chang Cheng , Xu Kaikun , Guo Chaoping , Wang Jinxia , Yan Qi , Zhang Jian , He Fuchu , Zhu Yunping
Published: May 2018

Compared with the numerous software tools developed for identification and quantification of -omics data, there remains a lack of suitable tools for both downstream analysis and data visualization. To help researchers better understand the biological meanings in their -omics data, we present an easy-to-use tool, named PANDA-view, for both statistical analysis and visualization of quantitative proteomics data and other -omics data. PANDA-view contains various kinds of analysis methods such as normalization, missing value imputation, statistical tests, clustering and principal component analysis, as well as the most commonly-used data visualization methods including an interactive volcano plot. Additionally, it provides user-friendly interfaces for protein-peptide-spectrum representation of the quantitative proteomics data.

Availability and implementation

PANDA-view is freely available at https://sourceforge.net/projects/panda-view/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
GSCALite: a web server for gene set cancer analysis
Authors: Liu Chun-Jie , Hu Fei-Fei , Xia Meng-Xuan , Han Leng , Zhang Qiong , Guo An-Yuan
Published: May 2018

The availability of cancer genomic data makes it possible to analyze genes related to cancer. Cancer is usually the result of a set of genes and the signal of a single gene could be covered by background noise. Here, we present a web server named Gene Set Cancer Analysis (GSCALite) to analyze a set of genes in cancers with the following functional modules. (i) Differential expression in tumor versus normal, and the survival analysis; (ii) Genomic variations and their survival analysis; (iii) Gene expression associated cancer pathway activity; (iv) miRNA regulatory network for genes; (v) Drug sensitivity for genes; (vi) Normal tissue expression and eQTL for genes. GSCALite is a user-friendly web server for dynamic analysis and visualization of gene set in cancer and drug sensitivity correlation, which will be of broad utilities to cancer researchers.

Availability and implementation

GSCALite is available on http://bioinfo.life.hust.edu.cn/web/GSCALite/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
DNA methylation and inflammation marker profiles associated with a history of depression
Authors: Crawford Bethany , Craig Zoe , Mansell Georgina , White Isobel , Smith Adam , Spaull Steve , Imm Jennifer , Hannon Eilis , Wood Andrew , Yaghootkar Hanieh , Ji Yingjie ,   Major Depressive Disorder Working Group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, Mullins Niamh , Lewis Cathryn M , Mill Jonathan , Murphy Therese M
Published: May 2018

Depression is a common and disabling disorder, representing a major social and economic health issue. Moreover, depression is associated with the progression of diseases with an inflammatory etiology including many inflammatory-related disorders. At the molecular level, the mechanisms by which depression might promote the onset of these diseases and associated immune-dysfunction are not well understood. In this study we assessed genome-wide patterns of DNA methylation in whole blood-derived DNA obtained from individuals with a self-reported history of depression (n = 100) and individuals without a history of depression (n = 100) using the Illumina 450K microarray. Our analysis identified six significant (Šidák corrected P < 0.05) depression-associated differentially methylated regions (DMRs); the top-ranked DMR was located in exon 1 of the LTB4R2 gene (Šidák corrected P = 1.27 × 10−14). Polygenic risk scores (PRS) for depression were generated and known biological markers of inflammation, telomere length (TL) and IL-6, were measured in DNA and serum samples, respectively. Next, we employed a systems-level approach to identify networks of co-methylated loci associated with a history of depression, in addition to depression PRS, TL and IL-6 levels. Our analysis identified one depression-associated co-methylation module (P = 0.04). Interestingly, the depression-associated module was highly enriched for pathways related to immune function and was also associated with TL and IL-6 cytokine levels. In summary, our genome-wide DNA methylation analysis of individuals with and without a self-reported history of depression identified several candidate DMRs of potential relevance to the pathogenesis of depression and its associated immune-dysfunction phenotype.
Stereoelectroencephalography for Refractory Epileptic Patients Considered for Surgery: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Economic Evaluation
Authors: Garcia-Lorenzo Borja , del Pino-Sedeño Tasmania , Rocamora Rodrigo , López Juan Erviti , Serrano-Aguilar Pedro , Trujillo-Martín María M
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) has been shown to be a valuable tool for the anatomoelectroclinical definition of the epileptogenic zone (EZ) in patients with medically refractory epilepsy considered for surgery (RES patients). In Spain, many of those patients are not offered this diagnostic procedure.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of SEEG to define the EZ in RES patients compared to no SEEG intervention, ie, remaining with further antiepileptic drugs.

METHODS

We undertook a systematic review with meta-analyses on the effectiveness and safety of SEEG. A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted using a Markov model, which simulates the costs and health outcomes of individuals for a lifetime horizon from the perspective of the Spanish National Health Service. The effectiveness measure was quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). We ran extensive sensitivity analyses, including a probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

The EZ was found in 92% of patients who underwent SEEG (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.87-0.96); 72% were eligible for epilepsy surgery (95% CI: 0.66-0.78) and 33% were free of seizures after surgery (95% CI: 0.27-0.42). Of the patients who underwent surgery, 47% were free of seizures after surgery (95% CI: 0.37-0.58). Complications related to implantation and monitoring of SEEG and the subsequent intervention occurred in 1.3% of patients (95% CI: 0.01-0.02). In the base case analysis, SEEG led to higher QALYs and healthcare costs with an estimated incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of 10 368 EUR per QALY (95% CI: dominant-113 911), making the probability of cost-effectiveness between 75% and 88%. Further sensitivity analyses showed that the results of the study were robust.

CONCLUSION

SEEG is a cost-effective technology in RES patients when compared to no SEEG intervention.
Changes in Biomarkers of Exposure on Switching From a Conventional Cigarette to Tobacco Heating Products: A Randomized, Controlled Study in Healthy Japanese Subjects
Authors: Gale Nathan , McEwan Mike , Eldridge Alison C , Fearon Ian M , Sherwood Neil , Bowen Edward , McDermott Simon , Holmes Emma , Hedge Andrew , Hossack Stuart , Wakenshaw Louise , Glew James , Camacho Oscar M , Errington Graham , McAughey John , Murphy James , Liu Chuan , Proctor Christopher J
Published: May 2018

Background

Smoking is a leading cause of numerous human disorders including pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Disease development is primarily caused by exposure to cigarette smoke constituents, many of which are known toxicants. Switching smokers to modified risk tobacco products (MRTPs) has been suggested as a potential means to reduce the risks of tobacco use, by reducing such exposure.

Methods

This randomized, controlled study investigated whether biomarkers of toxicant exposure (BoE) were reduced when smokers switched from smoking combustible cigarettes to using a novel (glo™/THP1.0) or in-market comparator (iQOS/THS) tobacco heating product (THP). One hundred eighty Japanese smokers smoked combustible cigarettes during a 2-day baseline period, followed by randomization to either continue smoking cigarettes, switch to using mentholated or non-mentholated variants of glo™, switch to using a non-mentholated variant of iQOS, or quit nicotine and tobacco product use completely for 5 days. Baseline and post-randomization 24-h urine samples were collected for BoE analysis. Carbon monoxide was measured daily in exhaled breath (eCO).

Results

On day 5 after switching, urinary BoE (excluding for nicotine) and eCO levels were significantly (p < .05) reduced by medians between 20.9% and 92.1% compared with baseline in all groups either using glo™ or iQOS or quitting tobacco use. Between-group comparisons revealed that the reductions in the glo™ groups were similar (p > .05) to quitting in many cases.

Conclusions

glo™ or iQOS use for 5 days reduced exposure to smoke toxicants in a manner comparable to quitting tobacco use. THPs are reduced exposure tobacco products with the potential to be MRTPs.

Implications

This clinical study demonstrates that when smokers switched from smoking combustible cigarettes to using tobacco heating products their exposure to smoke toxicants was significantly decreased. In many cases, this was to the same extent as that seen when they quit smoking completely. This may indicate that these products have the potential to be reduced exposure and/or reduced risk tobacco products when used by smokers whose cigarette consumption is displaced completely.

Clinical Trial Registrations

ISRCTN14301360 and UMIN000024988.
Ongoing clinical trials and treatment options for patients with systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease
Authors: Khanna Dinesh , Tashkin Donald P , Denton Christopher P , Lubell Martin W , Vazquez-Mateo Cristina , Wax Stephen
Published: May 2018

SSc is a rare CTD that affects multiple organ systems, resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality. Evidence of interstitial lung disease (ILD) is seen in ∼80% of patients with SSc. Currently there is no approved disease-modifying treatment for ILD and few effective treatment options are available. CYC is included in treatment guidelines, but it has limited efficacy and is associated with toxicity. MMF is becoming the most commonly used medication in clinical practice in North America and the UK, but its use is not universal. Newer agents targeting the pathogenic mechanisms underlying SSc-ILD, including fibrotic and inflammatory pathways, lymphocytes, cell–cell and cell–extracellular membrane interactions, hold promise for better treatment outcomes, including improved lung function, patient-related outcomes and quality of life. Here we review ongoing trials of established and novel agents that are currently recruiting patients with SSc-ILD.
Comprehensive Surveys of Bean common mosaic virus and Bean common mosaic necrosis virus and Molecular Evidence for Occurrence of Other Phaseolus vulgaris Viruses in Tanzania
Authors: Mwaipopo Beatrice , Nchimbi-Msolla Susan , Njau Paul J. R. , Mark Deogratius , Mbanzibwa Deusdedith R.
Published: May 2018

Virus diseases are among the main biotic factors constraining common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) production in Tanzania. Disease management requires information on types, distribution, incidence, and genetic variation of the causal viruses, which is currently limited. Thus, a countrywide comprehensive survey was conducted. Use of a next-generation sequencing technique enabled simultaneous detection of 15 viruses belonging to 11 genera. De novo assembly resulted in many contigs, including complete or nearly complete sequences of Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV), Bean common mosaic necrosis virus (BCMNV), and Southern bean mosaic virus (SBMV). Some viruses (for example, SBMV and Tomato leaf curl Uganda virus-related begomovirus) were detected for the first time in common bean in Tanzania. Visually assessed virus-like disease incidence ranged from 0 to 98% but reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction-based incidence of BCMV and BCMNV (7,756 samples) was mostly less than 40%. The Sanger-based nucleotide sequences encoding coat proteins of BCMV and BCMNV isolates were 90.2 to 100% and 97.1 to 100% identical to each other, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that BCMV isolates were more diverse than BCMNV isolates. The information generated in this study will contribute to the development of molecular diagnostic tools and strategies for management of virus diseases nationally and internationally.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2018 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY 4.0 International license .
Genetic Associations With Gestational Duration and Spontaneous Preterm Birth
Authors: Zhang G. , Feenstra B. , Bacelis J. , Liu X. , Muglia L.M. , Juodakis J. , Miller D.E. , Litterman N. , Jiang P.P. , Russell L. , Hinds D.A. , Hu Y. , Weirauch M.T. , Chen X. , Chavan A.R. , Wagner G.P. , Pavličev M. , Nnamani M.C. , Maziarz J. , Karjalainen M.K. , Rämet M. , Sengpiel V. , Geller F. , Boyd H.A. , Palotie A. , Momany A. , Bedell B. , Ryckman K.K. , Huusko J.M. , Forney C.R. , Kottyan L.C. , Hallman M. , Teramo K. , Nohr E.A. , Davey Smith G. , Melbye M. , Jacobsson B. , Muglia L.J.
Published: May 2018

(N Engl J Med. 2017;377(12):1156–1167)

Preterm birth is the leading cause of death in neonates and children above 5 years of age. Its definition, birth before 37 completed weeks of gestation, is a dichotomous trait based on a somewhat arbitrary cutoff of weeks’ gestation, rather than time of birth or a level of fetal maturity. Therefore, in the present study, the authors tested genetic associations with gestational duration (a quantitative trait) and preterm birth (a dichotomous trait), in order to identify robust associations with genetic variants consistent with a role in the timing of birth.
The Effect of IV Amino Acid Supplementation on Mortality in ICU Patients May Be Dependent on Kidney Function: Post Hoc Subgroup Analyses of a Multicenter Randomized Trial
Authors: Zhu Ran , Allingstrup Matilde J. , Perner Anders , Doig Gordon S.
Published: May 2018

Objectives:

We investigated whether preexisting kidney function determines if ICU patients may benefit from increased (2.0 g/kg/d) protein intake.

Design:

Post hoc, hypothesis-generating, subgroup analysis of a multicenter, phase 2, randomized clinical trial. All analyses were conducted by intention to treat and maintained group allocation. Ninety-day mortality was the primary outcome.

Setting:

ICUs of 16 hospitals throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Patients:

Adult critically ill patients expected to remain in the study ICU for longer than 2 days.

Interventions:

Random allocation to receive a daily supplement of up to 100 g of IV amino acids to achieve a total protein intake of 2.0 g/kg/d or standard nutrition care.

Measurements and Main Results:

A total of 474 patients were randomized: 235 to standard care and 239 to IV amino acid supplementation. There was a statistically significant interaction between baseline kidney function and supplementation with study amino acids (p value for interaction = 0.026). Within the subgroup of patients with normal kidney function at randomization, patients who were allocated to receive the study amino acid supplement were less likely to die before study day 90 (covariate-adjusted risk difference, –7.9%; 95% CI, –15.1 to –0.7; p = 0.034). Furthermore, amino acid supplementation significantly increased estimated glomerular filtration rate in these patients (repeated-measures treatment × time interaction p = 0.009). Within the subgroup of patients with baseline kidney dysfunction and/or risk of progression of acute kidney injury, a significant effect of the study intervention on mortality was not found (covariate-adjusted risk difference, –0.6%; 95% CI, –16.2 to 15.2; p = 0.95).

Conclusions:

In this post hoc, hypothesis-generating, subgroup analysis, we observed reduced mortality and improved estimated glomerular filtration rate in ICU patients with normal kidney function who were randomly allocated to receive increased protein intake (up to 2.0 g/kg/d). We strongly recommend confirmation of these results in trials with low risk of bias before this treatment is recommended for routine care.
Understanding Microbiome Effect on Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in Lung Cancer: Placing the Puzzle Pieces Together
Authors: Swami Umang , Zakharia Yousef , Zhang Jun
Published: May 2018

Over the past couple of years, human microbiome has received increasing attention as a regulator and predictor of response to the therapies of various diseases. It is speculated that manipulating gut microbiome can modify response to cancer immunotherapies as well. Through this review, we have critically analyzed our current understanding of gut microbiome as a modulator of immunotherapies in lung cancer, explained conflicting data, evaluated current gaps and extrapolated our present knowledge to generate directions for future investigations.
Same-Sex and Different-Sex Parent Families in Italy: Is Parents' Sexual Orientation Associated with Child Health Outcomes and Parental Dimensions?
Authors: Baiocco Roberto , Carone Nicola , Ioverno Salvatore , Lingiardi Vittorio
Published: May 2018

Objective:

Seventy gay fathers through surrogacy, 125 lesbian mothers through donor insemination, and 195 heterosexual parents through spontaneous conception, all with children aged 3 to 11 years and living in Italy, were compared on children's psychological adjustment and prosocial behavior, as well as parental self-efficacy, dyadic adjustment, family cohesion, and flexibility. Associations among family structures, family processes, and child health outcomes were also tested.

Methods:

Participants were matched for child characteristics. Self-report questionnaires were administered through an online survey to the parent who identified as most involved with the child on a day-to-day basis. Multivariate analyses of variance and multiple linear regressions were conducted.

Results:

Children of gay fathers and lesbian mothers were reported as showing fewer psychological problems than children of heterosexual parents. Irrespective of the family type, girls were reported as more prosocial than boys. With respect to parental dimensions, gay fathers described themselves as more competent and satisfied with their couple relationship than did heterosexual parents; they also reported higher levels of family cohesion and flexibility than did lesbian mothers and heterosexual parents. The effect of the family type was not predictive of child health outcomes once family process variables were taken into account.

Conclusion:

Findings suggested that children with same-sex parents fare well both in terms of psychological adjustment and prosocial behavior. The present study warns policy makers against making assumptions on the basis of sexual orientation about people who are more suited than others to be parents or about people who should or should not be denied access to fertility treatments.
Measuring In-Hospital Recovery After Colorectal Surgery Within a Well-Established Enhanced Recovery Pathway: A Comparison Between Hospital Length of Stay and Time to Readiness for Discharge
Authors: Balvardi Saba , Pecorelli Nicolò , Castelino Tanya , Niculiseanu Petru , Liberman A. Sender , Charlebois Patrick , Stein Barry , Carli Franco , Mayo Nancy E. , Feldman Liane S. , Fiore Julio F.
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND:

Hospital length of stay is often used as a measure of in-hospital recovery but may be confounded by organizational factors. Time to readiness for discharge may provide a superior index of recovery.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study was to contribute evidence for the construct validity of time to readiness for discharge and length of stay as measures of in-hospital recovery after colorectal surgery in the context of a well-established enhanced recovery pathway.

DESIGN:

This was an observational validation study designed according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist.

SETTINGS:

The study was conducted at a university-affiliated tertiary hospital.

PATIENTS:

A total of 100 consecutive patients undergoing elective colorectal resection (mean age = 65 y; 57% men; 81% laparoscopic) who participated in a randomized controlled trial were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

We tested a priori hypotheses that length of stay and time-to-readiness for discharge are longer in patients undergoing open surgery, with lower physical status, with severe comorbidities, with postoperative complications, undergoing rectal surgery, who are older (≥75 y), who have a new stoma, and who have inflammatory bowel disease.

RESULTS:

Median time-to-readiness for discharge and length of stay were both 3 days. For both measures, 6 of 8 construct validity hypotheses were supported (hypotheses 1 and 4–8).

LIMITATIONS:

The use of secondary data from a randomized controlled trial (risk of selection bias) was a limitation. Results may not be generalizable to institutions where patient care is not equally structured.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study contributes evidence to the construct validity of time-to-readiness for discharge and length of stay as measures of in-hospital recovery within enhanced recovery pathways. Our findings suggest that length of stay can be a less resource-intensive and equally construct-valid index of in-hospital recovery compared with time-to-readiness for discharge. Enhanced recovery pathways may decrease process-of-care variances that impact length of stay, allowing more timely discharge once discharge criteria are achieved. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A564.
Left-Sided Dominance of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancers: A Rationale for Screening Flexible Sigmoidoscopy in the Young
Authors: Segev Lior , Kalady Matthew F. , Church James M.
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND:

National databases show a recent significant increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer in people younger than 50. With current recommendations to begin average-risk screening at age 50, these patients do not have the opportunity to be screened. We hypothesized that most of the cancers among the young would be left sided, which would create an opportunity for screening the young by flexible sigmoidoscopy.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aims to analyze the anatomic distribution of sporadic colorectal cancers in patients under the age of 50.

DESIGN:

This is a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database.

SETTING:

This study was conducted at a single high-volume tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS:

Patients under the age of 50 with colorectal cancer between the years 2000 and 2016 were included. Patients with IBD, familial adenomatous polyposis, Lynch syndrome, or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer were excluded.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

The primary outcomes measured were tumor location and stage, demographics, and family history.

RESULTS:

A total of 739 patients were included. Age range at diagnosis was 18 to 49 years; median age was 44 years. Five hundred thirty patients were between the ages of 40 and 49, 167 were between the ages of 30 and 39, 40 were between the ages of 20 and 29, and 2 were under 20. Two hundred thirty-one patients (32%) had a family history of colorectal cancer. The anatomic distribution of the cancers was: 485 rectum (65%), 107 sigmoid colon (15%), 19 descending colon (3%), and 128 right colon and transverse colon (17%). Therefore, 83% of the tumors were theoretically within the range of flexible sigmoidoscopy.

LIMITATIONS:

Referral bias favors rectal cancer.

CONCLUSION:

The combination of an increasing incidence of colorectal cancer in those under 50 years of age and the predominance of left-sided cancer suggests that screening by flexible sigmoidoscopy starting at age 40 in average-risk individuals may prevent cancer by finding asymptomatic lesions. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A579.
Predicting Survival After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Appendix Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Aziz Omer , Jaradat Ihab , Chakrabarty Bipasha , Selvasekar Chelliah R. , Fulford Paul E. , Saunders Mark P. , Renehan Andrew G. , Wilson Malcolm S. , O’Dwyer Sarah T.
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND:

Appendix adenocarcinomas are rare tumors with propensity for peritoneal metastasis. Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is an established treatment with curative intent, but, to date, studies reporting survival have been heterogeneous with regard to their patient groups (including other tumor types), interventions (not all patients receiving intraperitoneal chemotherapy), and follow-up (varying surveillance protocols).

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study is to quantify the impact of this intervention on survival in a homogeneous group of patients with appendix adenocarcinoma receiving standardized treatment and follow-up, and to determine the impact of prognostic indicators on survival.

DESIGN:

This is a retrospective analysis of a prospective database at a national peritoneal tumor center where all patients had their appendix pathology reviewed and management planned by a specialized peritoneal tumor multidisciplinary team.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Data were extracted on prognostic indicators including peritoneal cancer index, completeness of cytoreduction score, preoperative tumor markers, and histological features. Overall and disease event-free survival from the date of intervention were evaluated using Kaplan Meier curves and univariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.

RESULTS:

A total of 65 patients underwent cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for appendix adenocarcinoma between 2005 and 2015. Median follow-up was 44.3 months. The overall survival was 55.5% and disease event-free survival was 36.1% (5-year rate). Peritoneal Cancer Index <7, complete cytoreduction score of 0, and preoperative CEA of <6 were all associated with significantly higher overall and disease event-free survival. CA19-9 <38 and CA125 <31 were not associated with a significantly higher overall or disease event-free survival.

LIMITATIONS:

The sample size was limited because of the rarity of this tumor type.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study quantifies the impact of cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy on overall and disease event-free survival for appendix adenocarcinoma, identifying key prognostic indicators that may guide treatment. It supports the referral of these rare tumors to specialist centers with appropriate expertise for initial management and follow-up. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A595.