bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nephrologie
(DGfN)
Authors: Alscher Mark Dominik , Kribben Andreas
Published: March 2018

Deutschland hat im internationalen Vergleich ein hervorragendes Gesundheitssystem
und speziell auch die Nephrologie als Fach ist hinsichtlich der
Patientenversorgung sehr gut aufgestellt. Beispielsweise ist der Bereich der
ambulanten Dialyseerbringung vorbildlich und war Vorreiter, was
Qualitätsmaßnahmen und deren Dokumentation betrifft. Allerdings gibt es derzeit
Risiken für das Fach der Nephrologie, welche sich einerseits aus allgemeinen
Rahmenbedingungen ergeben, anderseits mit nationalen Besonderheiten verbunden
sind. Die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nephrologie (DGfN) repräsentiert nahezu alle
Nephrologen mit einem Organisationsgrad von mehr als 99 %. Das Fach der
Nephrologie wird gestützt durch die Jahreskongresse, Stärkung der Akademischen
Nephrologie, Kommissionen, den Verein der leitenden Krankenhausnephrologen, die
Akademie Niere, die Zusammenarbeit mit der Nierenstiftung, die Registerarbeit,
berufspolitisch durch Einwirkung auf wesentliche Regelungen der
Leistungserbringung (Bundesmantelvertrag etc.), die Zusammenarbeit mit
kommerziellen Anbietern im Kuratorium der DGfN und aktuell durch ein Gutachten
„Zukunft der Nephrologie“. Eine Fachgesellschaft muss heute zahlreiche
Aktivitäten entfalten, um bei sich verschlechternden Rahmenbedingungen für das
Fach die Grundlage für eine qualitative hochwertige Leistung, welche auch die
wissenschaftlichen Grundlagenarbeiten umfasst, zu garantieren.
Clinical Evaluation of Free-Breathing Contrast-Enhanced T1w MRI of the Liver using Pseudo Golden Angle Radial k-Space Sampling
Authors: Hedderich Dennis , Weiss Kilian , Spiro Judith , Giese Daniel , Beck Gabriele , Maintz David , Persigehl Thorsten
Published: March 2018

Purpose Contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MR imaging of the liver is typically acquired using breath-hold techniques to reduce motion artifacts and to allow for optimal diagnostic image quality. Insufficient breath-holds during MR data collection can cause severe reduction of image quality up to the point of being non-diagnostic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the subjective and objective clinical image quality of a novel free-breathing radial k-space sampling MR technique.

Materials and Methods Consent for this study was given by the local IRB committee. 86 patients who underwent both breath-hold (BH) and free-breathing (FB) late-phase contrast T1w-FS-FFE liver MRI using conventional BH Cartesian (Cartesian-eTHRIVE) and FB “pseudo golden angle” radial k-space sampling (Radial-eTHRIVE) were included in this retrospective analysis. Subjective analysis comprised 5-point Likert scale ratings (1 = very good; 5 = non-diagnostic) for “artifact impact”, “anatomic sharpness”, “vessel sharpness”, “contrast impression”, and “overall diagnostic quality”. Relative signal intensities in different ROIs were compared between Cartesian-eTHRIVE and Radial-eTHRIVE. For statistical differences paired Wilcoxon test and paired t-test have been performed (p < 0.05).

Results The MR scan time was significantly longer for FB Radial-eTHRIVE (2 min, 54 s) compared to BH Cartesian-eTHRIVE (0 min 15 s). Cartesian-eTHRIVE demonstrated a superior subjective contrast impression and objective measurements revealed an increased lesion-to-liver-contrast for hypointense liver lesions (Hypo-LTLC: 0.33 ± 0.19 vs. 0.20 ± 0.11; p = 0.000), while no difference was observed for hyperintense liver lesions (Hyper-LTLC). Subjective evaluation showed superior anatomic sharpness ratings by both readers for Radial-eTHRIVE. Most importantly, in a subgroup analysis of patients who were unable to perform adequate breath-holds, free-breathing Radial-eTHRIVE still demonstrated good subjective image quality.

Conclusion Free-breathing, radial k-space sampling T1w MRI of the liver delivers high diagnostic image quality, especially in patients who are unable to adequately perform breath-hold maneuvers. Thus, Radial-eTHRIVE can be an important clinical alternative in patients with impaired respiration status.

Key points 

Citation Format
Unerwartet lange Shuntfunktion trotz schlechter Anfangsprognose
Authors: Krönung Gerhard
Published: March 2018

Die Maturierung einer Shuntvene ist nicht vorhersehbar. Auch zunächst nur mäßig geeignete Venen können sich,
besonders bei intraluminaler Druckerhöhung, zu guten Punktionssegmenten entwickeln. Der Erfahrungspool des
jeweiligen Operateurs spielt daher bei der Wahl zwischen einem autologen Shunt mit einer nur mäßig geeigneten
Vene und einem alloplastischen Shunt eine wesentliche Rolle.
Integrative Onkologie im Land der Morgenstille
Authors: Stoll Günther , Migeod Friedrich , Wagner Steffen , Holzhauer Peter
Published: March 2018

Im Vergleich zur traditionellen chinesischen Medizin (TCM) wird die Eigenständigkeit der traditionellen koreanischen Medizin (TKM) nach wie vor unterschätzt, zudem ist sie stark durch die Geschichte des Landes mit langen Phasen der Fremdherrschaft und der Teilung geprägt. Eine Reise im September 2017 führte zu den Quellen der TKM, aber auch an die Front moderner integrativer Onkologie. Der Bericht erläutert die Grundzüge des koreanischen Gesundheitssystems, gibt einen Überblick über die TKM und einige ihrer Besonderheiten, insbesondere den Einsatz von Ginseng, die Pharmakoakupunktur und die Anwendung der Hyperthermie. Die Implementation integrativer Onkologie in modernen koreanischen Kliniken wird an einigen Beispielen schlaglichtartig aufgezeigt.
Selendosierung in der Onkologie – Messung, Referenz- und Optimalwerte
Authors: Stoll Günther
Published: March 2018

Immer mehr Untersuchungen legen nahe, dass ein ausreichend hoher Selenspiegel bei Tumorpatienten dazu beiträgt, die Chancen auf eine günstige Prognose zu erhöhen. Da eine Krebserkrankung häufig mit einem Selendefizit assoziiert ist, das durch die notwendige tumorreduktive Therapie meist noch verstärkt wird, liegt es nahe, das essenzielle Spurenelement Selen zu supplementieren. Ein praktisches Behandlungsproblem besteht dabei in der Wahl der geeigneten Dosierung. Viele Labors verwenden unterschiedliche Referenzbereiche und teilweise auch nicht-valide Messmethoden. Der Optimalwert kann bisher nur aus verschiedenen Publikationen abgeschätzt werden. Außerdem beeinflussen Komorbiditäten den akuten Selenbedarf. Streng genommen sollte somit die Selendosierung für jeden Patienten individuell eingestellt werden; Richtwerte aus der Praxis geben allerdings Anhaltspunkte für eine adäquate Dosierung. Im Beitrag wird versucht, auf häufig gestellte Fragen aus der täglichen Beratungspraxis Antworten zu geben.
Komplementäronkologie ist vor allem effektive Supportivtherapie
Authors: Holzhauer Peter
Published: March 2018

Unser Gesprächspartner: Peter Holzhauer

Studium der Humanmedizin an der Universität Göttingen, Facharzt für Innere Medizin mit Zusatzbezeichnung Naturheilverfahren, 1991 bis 2011 Chefarzt und Ärztlicher Direktor der Veramed-Klinik am Wendelstein, seit August 2011 Chefarzt der Abteilung für Onkologie und Komplementärmedizin des onkologischen Zentrums Oberaudorf – Klinik Bad Trissl. Schwerpunkte: Integration von supportiven komplementär-medizinischen Behandlungsmaßnahmen und konventionellen onkologischen Standardtherapien, Nebenwirkungsmanagement, moderne Ernährungsmedizin und Mikronährstofftherapie.
Engineering of Fermi level by nin diamond junction for control of charge states of NV centers
Authors: Murai T. , Makino T. , Kato H. , Shimizu M. , Murooka T. , Herbschleb E. D. , Doi Y. , Morishita H. , Fujiwara M. , Hatano M. , Yamasaki S. , Mizuochi N.
Published: March 2018

The charge-state control of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond is very important toward its applications because the NV centers undergo stochastic charge-state transitions between the negative charge state (NV−) and the neutral charge state (NV0) of the NV center upon illumination. In this letter, engineering of the Fermi level by a nin diamond junction was demonstrated for the control of the charge state of the NV centers in the intrinsic (i) layer region. By changing the size (d) of the i-layer region between the phosphorus-doped n-type layer regions (nin) from 2 μm to 10 μm, we realized the gradual change in the NV− charge-state population in the i-layer region from 60% to 80% under 532 nm excitation, which can be attributed to the band bending in the i-layer region. Also, we quantitatively simulated the changes in the Fermi level in the i-layer region depending on d with various concentrations of impurities in the i-layer region.
Helicons in uniform fields. I. Wave diagnostics with hodograms
Authors: Urrutia J. M. , Stenzel R. L.
Published: March 2018

The wave equation for whistler waves is well known and has been solved in Cartesian and cylindrical coordinates, yielding plane waves and cylindrical waves. In space plasmas, waves are usually assumed to be plane waves; in small laboratory plasmas, they are often assumed to be cylindrical “helicon” eigenmodes. Experimental observations fall in between both models. Real waves are usually bounded and may rotate like helicons. Such helicons are studied experimentally in a large laboratory plasma which is essentially a uniform, unbounded plasma. The waves are excited by loop antennas whose properties determine the field rotation and transverse dimensions. Both m = 0 and m = 1 helicon modes are produced and analyzed by measuring the wave magnetic field in three dimensional space and time. From Ampère's law and Ohm's law, the current density and electric field vectors are obtained. Hodograms for these vectors are produced. The sign ambiguity of the hodogram normal with respect to the direction of wave propagation is demonstrated. In general, electric and magnetic hodograms differ but both together yield the wave vector direction unambiguously. Vector fields of the hodogram normal yield the phase flow including phase rotation for helicons. Some helicons can have locally a linear polarization which is identified by the hodogram ellipticity. Alternatively the amplitude oscillation in time yields a measure for the wave polarization. It is shown that wave interference produces linear polarization. These observations emphasize that single point hodogram measurements are inadequate to determine the wave topology unless assuming plane waves. Observations of linear polarization indicate wave packets but not plane waves. A simple qualitative diagnostics for the wave polarization is the measurement of the magnetic field magnitude in time. Circular polarization has a constant amplitude; linear polarization results in amplitude modulations.
Helicons in uniform fields. II. Poynting vector and angular momenta
Authors: Stenzel R. L. , Urrutia J. M.
Published: March 2018

The orbital and spin angular momenta of helicon modes have been determined quantitatively from laboratory experiments. The current density is obtained unambiguously from three dimensional magnetic field measurements. The only approximation made is to obtain the electric field from Hall Ohm's law which is usually the case for low frequency whistler modes. This allows the evaluation of the Poynting vector from which the angular momentum is obtained. Comparing two helicon modes (m = 0 and m = 1), one can separate the contribution of angular momentum of a rotating and non-rotating wave field. The orbital angular momentum is important to assess the wave-particle interaction by the transverse Doppler shift of rotating waves which has not been considered so far.
The Spectral Web of stationary plasma equilibria. I. General theory
Authors: Goedbloed J. P.
Published: March 2018

A new approach to computing the complex spectrum of magnetohydrodynamic waves and instabilities of moving plasmas is presented. It is based on the concept of the Spectral Web, exploiting the self-adjointness of the generalized Frieman–Rotenberg force operator, G, and the Doppler–Coriolis gradient operator parallel to the velocity, U. The problem is solved with an open boundary, where the complementary energy Wcom represents the amount of energy to be delivered to or extracted from the system to maintain a harmonic time-dependence. The eigenvalues are connected by a system of curves in the complex ω-plane, the solution path and the conjugate path (where Wcom is real or imaginary) which together constitute the Spectral Web, having a characteristic geometry that has to be clarified yet, but that has a deep physical significance. It is obtained by straightforward contour plotting of the two paths. The complex eigenvalues, within a specified rectangle of the complex ω-plane, are found by fast, reliable, and accurate iterations. Real and complex oscillation theorems, replacing the familiar tool of counting nodes of eigenfunctions, provide an associated mechanism of mode tracking along the two paths. The Spectral Web method is generalized to toroidal systems and extended to include a resistive wall by accounting for the dissipation in such a wall. It is applied in an accompanying Paper II [J. P. Goedbloed, Phys. Plasmas 25, 032110 (2018).] to a multitude of the basic fundamental instabilities operating in cylindrical plasmas.
Enhanced separation of aged RBCs by designing channel cross section
Authors: Chen Yuanyuan , Feng Yuzhen , Wan Jiandi , Chen Haosheng
Published: March 2018

Prolonged storage will alter the biophysical properties of red blood cells (RBCs), and it decreases the quality of stored blood for blood transfusion. It has been known that less deformable aged RBCs can be separated by margination, but the recognition of the storage time from the separation efficiency of the stiff RBCs is still a challenge. In this study, we realized enhanced separation of aged RBCs from normal RBCs by controlling the channel cross section and demonstrated that the storage time can be deduced from the percentage of the separated RBCs in the stored RBCs. This separation technology helps to reveal the regulation of time on the RBC aging mechanism and offer a new method to separate stiffened cells with high efficiency.
Experimental and numerical investigations of microwave return loss of aircraft inlets with low-pressure plasma
Authors: Zhang Yachun , He Xiang , Chen Jianping , Chen Hongqing , Chen Li , Zhang Hongchao , Ni Xiaowu , Lu Jian , Shen Zhonghua
Published: March 2018

The relationships between return losses of the cylindrical inlet and plasma discharge parameters are investigated experimentally and numerically. The return losses are measured using a high dynamic range measurement system and simulated by COMSOL Multiphysics when the frequency band of the microwaves is in the range 1–4 GHz. The profiles of the plasma density are estimated using Epstein and Bessel functions. Results show that the incident microwaves can be absorbed by plasma efficaciously. The maximal return loss can reach –13.84 dB when the microwave frequency is 2.3 GHz. The increase of applied power implies augmentation of the return loss, which behaves conversely for gas pressure. The experimental and numerical results display reasonable agreement on return loss, suggesting that the use of plasma is effective in the radar cross section reduction of aircraft inlets.
Synthesis and Enhanced Solar Light Photocatalytic Activity of a C/N Co-Doped TiO2/Diatomite Composite with Exposed (001) Facets
Authors: Dong Xiongbo , Sun Zhiming , Zhang Xiangwei , Li Xue , Zheng Shuilin
Published: March 2018

A C/N co-doped TiO2/diatomite composite with exposed (001) facet was prepared through a facile sol–gel method using tetrabutyl titanate as a titanium precursor and hexamethylenetetramine as C/N dopant. The as-prepared photocatalyst composites were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), as well as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The TiO2 nanoparticles were immobilised and uniformly distributed on the surface of diatomite with a smaller grain size compared with pure TiO2. In addition, compared with pure TiO2 and the undoped TiO2/diatomite composite, the photocatalytic activity of the C/N co-doped TiO2/diatomite composite under solar light illumination was obviously enhanced. Results indicate that the introduction of a C/N dopant can effectively promote the growth of the highly active anatase (001) facet of TiO2. On the other hand, the N impurity was doped into the interstitial spaces of the TiO2 lattice, which accelerated the charge transfer and hindered the recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. The results show that the as-prepared composite exhibited promising applications in dye wastewater degradation owing to its outstanding reusability and cost-effectiveness.
Rising [CO2] changes competition relationships between native woody and alien herbaceous Cerrado species
Authors: Melo Nayara M. J. , Rosa Rayete S.-E. G. , Pereira Eduardo G. , Souza João Paulo
Published: March 2018

The structure of the Cerrado may be explained by the competition between woody and herbaceous species. However, the rising CO2 concentration ([CO2]) predicted under current climatic change may modify the ecophysiological responses of woody and herbaceous species owing to functional traits of each group, which may in turn modify vegetation structure as competitive relationships change among species. In this study we examined ecophysiological responses and competition between two cerrado species under elevated [CO2]. We selected an herbaceous alien grass (Melinis minutiflora P. Beauv.) and an endemic woody cerrado species (Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart. ex Hayne). Hymenaea stigonocarpa individuals were maintained in three plots with different M. minutiflora densities: 0, 50 and 100% in two different [CO2] (380 ppm and 700 ppm) in open-top chambers. Leaf gas exchange, effective quantum efficiency of PSII, chlorophyll content, and growth increased in H. stigonocarpa plants under high [CO2]. The competition with M. minutiflora under elevated [CO2] led to an increase in specific leaf area, leaf area ratio and biomass allocation to shoots in H. stigonocarpa. In contrast, M. minutiflora had a delayed leaf development and high stem dry mass under elevated [CO2]. These changes in growth patterns under elevated [CO2] will modify allocation of resources, improving the competition potential of the woody species over the alien grass species in the Cerrado.
Dingo singing: the howl of the advocate
Authors: Wardell-Johnson Angela , Archer-Lean Clare , Carter Jennifer
Published: March 2018

World Heritage protected areas are increasingly valuable for civil society. Sectors of broader society can feel invested in such areas and engage in forms of conservation advocacy that challenge traditional formal management. Advocacy is found wherever management decisions are negotiated or contested, revealing sharp divides in positions. But there are also opportunities for partnerships in advocacy. Identifying the narrative details of advocacy positions is crucial but complicated when the parties being represented are non-human animals, plant species or broader environments: they depend on the advocate’s voice as they cannot speak in any literal sense. Thus advocates discussed in this paper are those representing scientific decision-frames: managers and scientists. Both groups frequently draw on empirical research, giving primacy to the proof of scientific voice. In this research we presented methods to build interdisciplinary literacy to move beyond traditional categorical analysis. Semantic mapping was applied to identify narrative themes as the basis for close textual analysis in a specific case study: advocacy on behalf of the K’gari-Fraser Island dingo. We differentiated three critical pillars of wisdom – Indigenous, local and scientific – but here only considered the advocacy positions within the scientific knowledge decision-making community. Thus, we compared positions taken by the formal management community (government managers) with positions taken in the scientific research community (academic researchers). Narrative themes in advocacy agendas and metaphorical strategies taken to frame positions identify differences and common ground for the two groups. Management advocacy was premised on limits to human–dingo interaction while science advocacy called for dingo welfare. The synergy was tourists, defined as the greatest threat to dingo welfare and viability. This common ground provides an effective starting point to support dingo interests. Identifying options and constraints in advocacy positions is crucial for the future of dingoes on K’gari, but also for all people who engage with World Heritage values. Implicitly, this paper defends the place of advocacy in scientific discussion. By exploring potential options for negotiation, conservation outcomes that support contested iconic species in a World Heritage context are more likely.
Abnormal extracellular matrix remodelling in the cervix of pregnant relaxin-deficient mice is not associated with reduced matrix metalloproteinase expression or activity
Authors: Marshall Sarah A. , McGuane Jonathan T. , Soh Yu May , Gehring Helen M. , Simpson Emma , Parry Laura J.
Published: March 2018

Relaxin regulates cervical extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling during pregnancy by modifying collagen and other ECM molecules by unknown mechanisms. We hypothesised that abnormal collagen remodelling in the cervix of pregnant relaxin-deficient (Rln1−/−) mice is due to excessive collagen (Col1a1 and Col3a1) and decreased matrix metalloproteinases (Mmp2, Mmp9, Mmp13 and Mmp7) and oestrogen receptors (Esr1 and Esr2). Quantitative polymerase chain reaction, gelatinase zymography, MMP activity assays and histological staining evaluated changes in ECM in pregnant wildtype (Rln1+/+) and Rln1−/− mice. Cervical Col1a1, Col3a1 and total collagen increased in Rln1−/− mice and were higher at term compared with Rln1+/+ mice. This was not correlated with a decrease in gelatinase (Mmp2, Mmp9) expression or activity, Mmp7 or Mmp13 expression, which were all significantly higher in Rln1−/− mice. In late pregnancy, circulating MMP2 and MMP9 were unchanged. Esr1 expression was highest in Rln1+/+ and Rln1−/− mice in late pregnancy, coinciding with a decrease in Esr2 in Rln1+/+ but not Rln1−/− mice. The relaxin receptor (Rxfp1) decreased slightly in late-pregnant Rln1+/+ mice, but was significantly higher in Rln1−/− mice. In summary, relaxin deficiency results in increased cervical collagen in late pregnancy, which is not explained by a reduction in Mmp expression or activity or decreased Rxfp1. However, an imbalance between Esr1 and Esr2 may be involved.
The acquisition of relative clauses by Mandarin heritage language children
Authors: Jia Ruiting , Paradis Johanne
Published: March 2018

This study examined the phenomena of incomplete acquisition, attrition, and protracted acquisition of the L1 in HL children by focusing on the comprehension and production of subject and object relative clauses (RCs) in Mandarin HL children. A cross-sectional design (study 1) and a longitudinal design (study 2) were both included. Our results showed that HL children were comparable to monolinguals for the comprehension of RCs in both study 1 and 2. For the production of RCs, although monolinguals outperformed HL children in study 1, HL children’s production of RCs was convergent with monolingual-like levels over time (study 2). We conclude that the reduced L1 input HL children receive in the host country does not necessarily lead to deficient acquisition of the L1. Perhaps for some complex structures in the L1 (e.g., RCs), HL children may need more time than monolingual children to accumulate the critical mass of input needed to acquire them.
Preparation and tribological properties of homogeneously dispersed graphene-reinforced aluminium matrix composites
Authors: Gao Xin , Yue Hongyan , Guo Erjun , Zhang Shaolin , Wang Bao , Guan Enhao , Song Shanshan , Zhang Hongjie
Published: March 2018

Aluminium matrix composites reinforced with homogeneously dispersed graphene (Gr/Al) were fabricated by electrostatic self-assembly and powder metallurgy. The microstructure of the composites was observed. The effects of graphene content, applied load and sliding speed on the tribological properties of the composites were also investigated. The results show that graphene is homogeneously dispersed in the aluminium matrix. The coefficient of friction for the composites initially increases and later decreases with increasing graphene content. It is lowest in the 0.3 wt-% Gr/Al composite, which is a decrease of approximately 20% when compared to that of pure aluminium. The coefficient of friction of the composites appears to increase significantly when increasing the applied load. However, it decreases with increases in the sliding speed.
Deposition of polytetrafluoroethylene nanoparticles on graphene oxide/polyester fabrics for oil adsorption
Authors: Wang Di , Li Dawei , Lv Pengfei , Xu Yang , Wei Qufu
Published: March 2018

Novel hierarchically structured fabrics were successfully fabricated by coating graphene oxide (GO) and depositing polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) nanoparticles on the surface of polyester (PET) fibres through suction filtration and magnetron sputtering, respectively. The structure, morphology and properties of the PTFE/GO/PET composite fabrics were characterised. The results revealed that the GO sheets had coated the surface of PET fabrics completely and the PTFE nanoparticles deposited on the GO/PET fabrics were compact and uniform. The as-prepared PTFE/GO/PET fabric showed the outstanding hydrophobic property that the contact angle (CA) reached up to 139°. Besides, the PTFE/GO/PET fabrics exhibited a remarkable capacity of adsorbing various organic solvents and oils from wastewater. More importantly, the CA and adsorption capacity of the PTFE/GO/PET fabrics showed no decrease anymore after 10 times of recycling use. The as-prepared material possesses a potential ability to adsorb organic solvents and oil from wastewater.
Has There Been an Increase in the Frequency with which People who Drink in a Risky Fashion Receive Advice to Cut down on their Drinking from 1998 to 2015?
Authors: Cunningham John A. , Chaiton Michael
Published: March 2018

Background: To assess whether there has been an increase over time in the proportion of people who drink in a risky fashion, who receive expressions of concern about their drinking or advice to cut down. Methods: Secondary analysis of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) Monitor population survey, conducted annually in Ontario (participants: 18 or older) and with relevant data available from 1998 to 2015 ( N = 48,124). The proportions of participants who drank above weekly low-risk drinking levels (approximated as 15 or more drinks for males and 11 or more for females) who reported receiving expressions of concern about their drinking or advice to cut down were compared between the time periods 1998–2004, 2005–2010, and 2011–2015. Further, proportions were broken down by age group and participant sex. Results: Overall, there were low rates of participants who reported receiving advice about their drinking (16.8% of those drinking above weekly drinking levels) and no evidence of an increase across time, except among males, 34 years and under. Females drinking beyond recommended weekly guidelines were less likely than males to receive advice (11.7% versus 19.3%, respectively; P < .001). Further, older participants drinking beyond weekly guidelines were less likely than younger participants to receive advice (18–34: 16.9%; 35–54: 20.3%; 55 or older: 12.9%; P = .012). Conclusions: Given that heavy alcohol consumption is a significant contributor to the preventable burden of disease, increased emphasis is merited on finding ways to increase the frequency with which people who drink in a risky fashion receive advice to cut down.
Rapid induction of p62 and GABARAPL1 upon proteasome inhibition promotes survival before autophagy activation
Authors: Sha Zhe , Schnell Helena M. , Ruoff Kerstin , Goldberg Alfred
Published: March 2018

Proteasome inhibitors are used as research tools and to treat multiple myeloma, and proteasome activity is diminished in several neurodegenerative diseases. We therefore studied how cells compensate for proteasome inhibition. In 4 h, proteasome inhibitor treatment caused dramatic and selective induction of GABARAPL1 (but not other autophagy genes) and p62, which binds ubiquitinated proteins and GABARAPL1 on autophagosomes. Knockdown of p62 or GABARAPL1 reduced cell survival upon proteasome inhibition. p62 induction requires the transcription factor nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 1 (Nrf1), which simultaneously induces proteasome genes. After 20-h exposure to proteasome inhibitors, cells activated autophagy and expression of most autophagy genes by an Nrf1-independent mechanism. Although p62 facilitates the association of ubiquitinated proteins with autophagosomes, its knockdown in neuroblastoma cells blocked the buildup of ubiquitin conjugates in perinuclear aggresomes and of sumoylated proteins in nuclear inclusions but did not reduce the degradation of ubiquitinated proteins. Thus, upon proteasome inhibition, cells rapidly induce p62 expression, which enhances survival primarily by sequestering ubiquitinated proteins in inclusions.
Dynamics of the Smooth Positons of the Wadati-Konno-Ichikawa Equation*
Authors: Wang Gai-Hua , Zhang Yong-Shuai , He Jing-Song
Published: March 2018

We discuss a modified Wadati-Konno-Ichikawa (mWKI) equation, which is equivalent to the WKI equation by a hodograph transformation. The explicit formula of degenerated solution of mWKI equation is provided by using degenerate Darboux transformation with respect to the eigenvalues, which yields two kinds of smooth solutions possessing the vanishing and nonvanishing boundary conditions respectively. In particular, a method for the decomposition of modulus square is operated to the positon solution, and the approximate orbits before and after collision of positon solutions are displayed explicitly.
USDA Announcement Effects in Real‐Time
Authors: Adjemian Michael K , Irwin Scott H
Published: March 2018

In 2012, the Chicago Board of Trade eliminated a morning trading halt that coincided with the normal publication time for important USDA commodity reports. Previously, market participants had hours of halted trading time to review the information in the reports and adjust their strategies in advance of market re‐opening. We use 2009–2014 intraday grain futures market price and volume data to show that, without a trading halt, ensuing real‐time trading on USDA crop announcements exhibits noticeable volatility spikes in agricultural futures markets, but that this heightened volatility dissipates within the space of a few trading minutes. In addition, continuously‐traded markets appear to have a more difficult time distinguishing between the newsworthiness of government reports. Nevertheless, continuously traded crop markets take nearly the same time to fully absorb these shocks, following a very similar time path. Re‐imposing a timeout would necessarily lengthen the price discovery process.
Silencing of a Unique Integrated Domain Nucleotide-Binding Leucine-Rich Repeat Gene in Wheat Abolishes Diuraphis noxia Resistance
Authors: Nicolis Vittorio , Venter Eduard
Published: March 2018

Plants respond in a similar manner to aphid feeding as to pathogen attack. Diuraphis noxia is a specialist aphid, feeding only on selected grasses that include wheat, barley, and oats. The wheat–Diuraphis noxia interaction is characterized by responses very similar to those seen in wheat-pathogen interactions with none of the underlying resistance pathways and genes characterized yet. From wheat harboring the Dn1 resistance gene, we have identified a nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat (NLR) gene containing two integrated domains (IDs). These are three C-terminus ankyrin repeat domains and an N-terminus WRKY domain. The NLR core of the gene can be traced through speciation events within the grass family, with a recent WRKY domain integration that is Triticum-specific. Virus-induced gene silencing of the gene in a resistant wheat line resulted in the abolishment of the resistance response and induced a highly susceptible phenotype. Silenced plants supported a higher number of aphids, similar to the susceptible near-isogenic line (NIL), and the intrinsic rate of increase of the aphids matched that of aphids feeding on the susceptible NIL. The presence of the gene is necessary for Dn1 resistance and we have named the gene Associated with Dn resistance 1 (Adnr1) to reflect this function.
α-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone (“Flakka”) Catalyzing Catatonia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Richman Elon E. , Skoller Nathan J. , Fokum Bernice , Burke Brandi A. , Hickerson Chelsea A. , Cotes Robert O.
Published: March 2018

Synthetic cathinones are a class of novel psychoactive substances. α-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α-PVP), or “Flakka”, is one of these substances. Users often present acutely psychotic or agitated. We present the case of a 20-year-old male without prior psychiatric history who was brought to the hospital by his family because of increasingly bizarre and erratic behavior after reported ingestion of Flakka. What ensued was a prolonged course of psychosis and severe catatonia. Synthetic cathinones are thought to cause catatonia in approximately 1% of cases. Awareness of the possible presentations associated with α-PVP intoxication is increasingly important and should be further explored, as they can have important implications in setting expectations for care. Additionally, providers should have a low threshold for asking patients about bath salt ingestion.
Computed tomography in axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Tan Sovira , Ward Michael M.
Published: March 2018

Purpose of review

Computed tomography (CT) is increasingly being used in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) for imaging the spine and sacroiliac joint (SIJ). We review new insights to diagnosis and evaluation revealed by the use of CT.

Recent findings

Studies using low-dose CT in AS to detect syndesmophytes can image the entire spine, but semiquantitative scoring of the scans by human readers decreases the reliability and validity of this method. The thoracic spine is the segment most involved with syndesmophytes. Syndesmophytes are not randomly distributed around the vertebral rim but have preferred locations, which vary with the vertebral level and may be related to biomechanics. Examination of SIJ on abdominal CT scans has found structural changes of sacroiliitis in up to 35% of patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The significance of monosodium urate crystal deposition in the pelvis of axial spondyloarthritis patients without coexisting gout is uncertain.

Low-dose CT is a promising tool in AS. Studies of biomarkers or medications and their relations with syndesmophyte progression should take the thoracic spine into account. Abdominal CT scans are useful for detecting changes related to sacroiliitis.
Nationwide Trend of Sepsis: A Comparison Among Octogenarians, Elderly, and Young Adults
Authors: Lee Si-Huei , Hsu Tzu-Chun , Lee Meng-tse Gabriel , Chao Christin Chihh-Ting , Lee Wan-Chien , Lai Chi-Cheng , Lee Chien-Chang
Published: March 2018

Objective:

We aimed to compare the sepsis incidence, mortality rates, and primary sites of infection among adult, elderly, and octogenarian patients with sepsis.

Design:

Population-based cohort study.

Setting:

The entire health insurance claims data of Taiwan, which enrolled 99.8% of the 23 million Taiwanese population.

Patients:

Sepsis patients were identified by International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification codes for both infection and organ dysfunction from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2012. Patients were categorized into three age groups: 1) adults (18–64 yr); 2) elderly (65–84 yr); and 3) oldest old (≥ 85 yr). The 30-day all-cause mortality was verified by a linked national death certificate database.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

From 2002 to 2012, we identified 1,259,578 patients with sepsis, of which 417,328 (33.1%) were adults, 652,618 (51.8%) were elderly, and 189,632 (15.1%) were oldest old. We determined that the incidence of sepsis in the oldest old was 9,414 cases per 100,000 population on 2012, which was 31-fold greater than the adult incidence (303 cases per 100,000 population) and three-fold greater than the elderly incidence (2,908 cases per 100,000 population). Despite the increasing trend in incidence, the mortality decreased by 34% for adults, 24% for elderly, and 22% for oldest old. However, systemic fungal infection was disproportionately increased in oldest old patients (1.76% annual increase) and the elderly patients (1.00% annual increase).

Conclusion:

The incidence of sepsis is disproportionately increased in elderly and oldest old patients. Despite the increasing trend in incidence, the mortality rate in geriatric patients with sepsis has decreased. However, the increased incidence of fungal infections in the geriatric population warrants further attention.
Unusual Neuroendocrine Differentiation in a Small Round Cell Angiosarcoma: A Potential Histologic Mimicker of Superficial Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Machado Isidro , Santonja Carlos , Huerta Victoria , Cruz Julia , Requena Celia , Requena Luis , Llombart-Bosch Antonio
Published: March 2018

Neuroendocrine differentiation or aberrant expression of neuroendocrine markers is very uncommon in angiosarcomas (AS) and creates a challenging differential diagnosis with other superficial or soft tissue tumors. Herein, we report a new case of superficial AS presenting as a tumor lesion on the little finger of the right hand of a 52-year-old man. The tumor displayed CD56, chromogranin-A, and synaptophysin immunoreactivity. Tumor cells were positive for vascular markers (CD31, FLI1, ERG, D2-40, VE-cadherin, VEGR1,2, and 3), CD99, and EMA, but were negative for S100, CK (AE1/AE3), CK20, polyomavirus, and myogenic (desmin and myogenin) and melanocyte markers (melan-A and HMB45). Ki67 immunostains indicated high proliferative activity (>50%). The whole-body computed tomography did not reveal distant disease. The initial assessment considered several tumor subtypes as possible histological diagnoses, including Ewing sarcoma, Ewing-like sarcoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and undifferentiated “small round cell sarcoma”. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis was negative for EWSR1 translocation and molecular analysis failed to detect any EWSR1, CIC, SYT or BCOR rearrangement. As a follow-up investigation, we tested 17 cutaneous/superficial AS for neuroendocrine markers; however, only one of these showed focal CD56 and synaptophysin expression. In conclusion, the present findings indicate that neuroendocrine differentiation is a very infrequent feature in AS. We report an AS of the finger with an uncommon histological appearance and immunohistochemical profile: predominant round cell tumor proliferation and neuroendocrine differentiation. Pathologists should be aware of these potential histological and immunohistochemical pitfalls in AS.
A Case of a Malignant Cutaneous Mixed Tumor (Chondroid Syringoma) of the Scapula Treated With Staged Margin-Controlled Excision
Authors: Lal Karan , Morrell Travis J. , Cunningham Michael , O'Donnell Patrick , Levin Nikki A. , Cornejo Kristine M.
Published: March 2018

Cutaneous mixed tumor (chondroid syringoma) is the cutaneous counterpart of pleomorphic adenoma of salivary glands, comprised of both epithelial and mesenchymal components. Malignant transformation is exceptionally rare, with only a few cases reported. We report a case of a malignant cutaneous mixed tumor in an 86-year-old white man who presented with a pink indurated plaque on his left scapula. He had a history of nonmelanoma skin cancers, a stage IB malignant melanoma of a lower extremity and Gleason 4 + 3 prostate cancer treated with brachytherapy, external beam irradiation, and bicalutamide. A shave biopsy was performed and histologic examination revealed infiltrative single-unit atypical cells and small ducts in a superficially transected sclerotic dermis suggestive of a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. No epidermal connection was identified. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that the tumor was positive for CK7, CAM5.2, and mCEA and negative for CK20, epithelial membrane antigen, P63, prostate-specific antigen, prostatic specific acid phosphatase, and alpha-methylacyl-coenzyme A racemase. A metastasis of the breast or upper digestive tract was favored, although a primary eccrine carcinoma was also considered. Imaging was performed and no other masses were identified. A slow Mohs excision was performed with negative margins. Microscopic examination revealed a biphasic neoplasm comprised of infiltrative epithelial strands and tubules consistent with an eccrine carcinoma in a hyalinized and chondromyxoid stroma within the dermis, arising from a well-circumscribed chondroid syringoma located in the deep dermis and subcutis. Areas of clear cell change, intracytoplasmic vacuolization, and mucin pools were noted. Multiple foci of perineural invasion were identified. Additional immunohistochemical studies revealed that the tumor was positive for S100 and negative for CK5/6, calponin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, GATA3, GCDFP-15, and mammoglobin. Based on the morphologic features and immunoprofile, this was diagnosed as a malignant cutaneous mixed tumor. This case highlights the importance of obtaining adequate tissue for histologic evaluation, as they can be confused with other skin neoplasms because of their clinically ambiguous presentations. Although rare, an accurate diagnosis is important given that long-term follow-up is recommended because of the risk of local recurrence and both lymph node and distant metastases.
A Variant of COL3A1 (rs3134646) Is Associated With Risk of Developing Diverticulosis in White Men
Authors: Reichert Matthias Christian , Kupcinskas Juozas , Krawczyk Marcin , Jüngst Christoph , Casper Markus , Grünhage Frank , Appenrodt Beate , Zimmer Vincent , Weber Susanne Nicole , Tamelis Algimantas , Lukosiene Jaune Ieva , Pauziene Neringa , Kiudelis Gediminas , Jonaitis Laimas , Schramm Christoph , Goeser Tobias , Schulz Antje , Malinowski Maciej , Glanemann Matthias , Kupcinskas Limas , Lammert Frank
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND:

Colonic diverticulosis is one of the most common gastroenterological disorders. Although diverticulosis is typically benign, many individuals develop diverticulitis or other aspects of diverticular disease. Diverticulosis is thought to stem from a complex interaction of environmental, dietary, and genetic factors; however, the contributing genetic factors remain unknown.

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of our present study was to determine the role of genetic variants within genes encoding for collagens of the connective tissue in diverticulosis.

DESIGN:

This was a transsectional genetic association study.

SETTINGS:

This study was conducted at three tertiary referral centers in Germany and Lithuania.

PATIENTS:

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms inCOL3A1(rs3134646,rs1800255) andCOL1A1(rs1800012) were genotyped in 422 patients with diverticulosis and 285 controls of white descent by using TaqMan assays.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

The association of colonoscopy-proven diverticulosis with genetic polymorphisms with herniations was assessed in multivariate models.

RESULTS:

Thers3134646,rs1800255, andrs1800012variants were significantly associated with the risk of developing diverticulosis in the univariate model; however, these associations were not significant in the multivariate logistic regression analysis including additional nongenetic variables. When selectively analyzing sexes, the genotype AA (AA) inrs3134646remained significantly associated with diverticulosis in men (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.04–3.20;p= 0.04).

LIMITATIONS:

Because a candidate approach was used, additional relevant variants could be missed. Within our cohort of patients with diverticulosis, only a small proportion had diverticular disease and thus, we could not examine the variants in these subgroups. Functional studies, including the analysis of the involved collagens, are also warranted.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study shows that a variant ofCOL3A1(rs3134646) is associated with the risk of developing colonic diverticulosis in white men, whereasrs1800255(COL3A1) andrs1800012(COL1A1) were not associated with this condition after adjusting for confounding factors. Our data provide novel valuable insights in the genetic susceptibility to diverticulosis. SeeVideo Abstractat http://links.lww.com/DCR/A504.
Effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor signalling of chronic mild stress, chronic risperidone and acute intracranial dopamine receptor challenges
Authors: Papp Mariusz , Gruca Piotr , Lason-Tyburkiewicz Magdalena , Litwa Ewa , Niemczyk Monika , Tota-Glowczyk Katarzyna , Faron-Gorecka Agata , Kusmider Maciej , Solich Joanna , Szlachta Marta , Willner Paul
Published: March 2018

We have previously reported the effects of intracranial injections of dopamine D1, D2 and D3 ligands in animals subjected to the Novel Object Recognition (NOR) test following exposure to chronic mild stress (CMS) and chronic treatment with risperidone (RSP). Here, we present some molecular biological data from the same animals. It was predicted that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signalling in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) would reflect behavioural performance, implying an increase following acute administration of a D2 agonist or a D3 antagonist, blockade of this effect by CMS and its restoration by chronic RSP. In separate cohorts, animals were injected within the PFC or the hippocampus (HPC) with either the D1 agonist SKF-81297, the D2 agonist quinpirole or the D3 antagonist SB-277,011, following exposure to control conditions or CMS and chronic treatment with saline or RSP. Intracranial injections followed an exposure trial in the NOR test, with a retention trial 24 h later. Immediately afterwards, the animals were killed and expression of BDNF and TRKβ protein, and their respective mRNAs, was measured in PFC and HPC samples. CMS decreased the expression of TRKβ in both PFC and HPC. Several effects associated with intracranial injection were noted, but they were inconsistent and unrelated to CMS exposure. The effects of CMS on TRKβ are consistent with a decrease in BDNF signalling, albeit that expression of BDNF itself did not change significantly. There was no evidence for an involvement of the BDNF–TRKβ system in responses to RSP or dopamine ligands in animals exposed to CMS. However, there was a 24 h delay between the intracranial injection and tissue harvesting, meaning that brief early drug effects could have been missed.