bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Posner molecules: from atomic structure to nuclear spins
Authors: Swift Michael W. , Van de Walle Chris G. , Fisher Matthew P. A.
Published: January 2018

The Posner molecule, Ca9(PO4)6, a possible intermediate step in bone growth, may also protect the constituent 31P spins from decoherence.
Microkinetic model for reaction and diffusion of titanium interstitial atoms near a TiO2(110) surface
Authors: Gilliard-AbdulAziz Kandis Leslie , Seebauer Edmund G.
Published: January 2018

For Ti interstitials in rutile, model yields kinetic parameters for surface injection, site-hopping diffusion, and reaction with extended defects.
Conflicting effect of chemical doping on the thermoelectric response of ordered PEDOT aggregates
Authors: Cigarini Luigi , Ruini Alice , Catellani Alessandra , Calzolari Arrigo
Published: January 2018

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) semiconductor plays a relevant role in the development of organic thermoelectric (TE) devices for low-power generation.
Investigation of multi-bunching by generating multi-order fluorescence of NV center in diamond
Authors: Tang Haijun , Ahmed Irfan , Puttapirat Pargorn , Wu Tianhao , lan Yuwei , Zhang Yanpeng , Li Enling
Published: January 2018

Fabricating electronics from solid-state quantum emitters is a promising strategy for the miniaturization and integration of electronic devices.
Tuning the singlet fission relevant energetic levels of quinoidal bithiophene compounds by means of backbone modifications and functional group introduction
Authors: Shen Li , Wang Xuemin , Liu Heyuan , Li Xiyou
Published: January 2018

Quinoidal bithiophene-based singlet fission candidates were designed and theoretically evaluated for the purpose of their application in solar cells.
Ultrafast intersystem crossing for nitrophenols: ab initio nonadiabatic molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Xu Chao , Gu Feng Long , Zhu Chaoyuan
Published: January 2018

Ultrafast intersystem crossing mechanisms for two p- and m-nitrophenol groups (PNP and MNP) have been investigated using ab initio nonadiabatic molecular dynamics simulations at the 6SA-CASSCF level of theory.
New reactivity at the silicon bridge in sila[1]ferrocenophanes
Authors: Musgrave Rebecca A. , Hailes Rebekah L. N. , Schäfer André , Russell Andrew D. , Gates Paul J. , Manners Ian
Published: January 2018

Two new types of reactivity involving silicon-bridged [1]ferrocenophanes are described.
Computational studies on ground and excited state charge transfer properties of peptidomimetics
Authors: Joy Sherin , Sureshbabu Vommina V , Periyasamy Ganga
Published: January 2018

Charge transfers during excitation and hole migration dynamics after immediate ionization for various terminal group containing ureido-peptides are studied.
Ultrasound-assisted synthesis of ordered mesoporous silica FDU-12 with a hollow structure
Authors: Fan Jiyuan , Du Peng , Wang Xilong , Zheng Peng , Zhao Zhen , Duan Aijun , Xu Chunming , Li Jianmei
Published: January 2018

Spherical hollow FDU-12 silica with better textural properties and excellent thermal stability was synthesized by a sonochemical method.
Superior charge storage performance of WS2 quantum dots in a flexible solid state supercapacitor
Authors: Ghorai Arup , Midya Anupam , Ray Samit K.
Published: January 2018

Defect induced enhanced charge storage performance of WS2 quantum dots in a flexible solid state supercapacitor.
Diverse chemistry of the dianion [closo-B9H9]2−: synthesis and reactivity of its mono-anionic derivative [arachno-B9H12-4,8-Cl2]−
Authors: Schlüter Florian , Bernhardt Eduard , Zhizhin Konstantin
Published: January 2018

Attempted protonation of the [closo-B9H9]2− under the moisture-free conditions did not afford the expected monoanion [closo-B9H10]−, while its reaction with HCl in dichloromethane afforded the first chlorine-containing monoanion [arachno-B9H12-4,8-Cl2]− in a high yield.
The fluorescence quenching and aggregation induced emission behaviour of silver nanoclusters labelled on poly(acrylic acid-co-maleic acid)
Authors: Wu Ping-Chien , Chen Chou-Yen , Chang Chih-Wei
Published: January 2018

The P(AA-co-MA) AgNCs reveals fluorescence quenching and enhancement in the presence of GSH and DMSO, respectively.
Columnar self-assembly of luminescent bent-shaped hexacatenars with a central pyridine core connected with substituted 1,3,4-oxadiazole and thiadiazoles
Authors: Pradhan Balaram , Gupta Ravindra Kumar , Pathak Suraj Kumar , De Joydip , Pal Santanu Kumar , Achalkumar Ammathnadu S.
Published: January 2018

Multifunctional pyridine based bent shaped polycatenars stabilizing liquid crystalline and organogel self-assembly.
Chemical language and warfare of bacterial natural products in bacteria–nematode–insect interactions
Authors: Shi Yi-Ming , Bode Helge B.
Published: January 2018

This review provides a chemical biology perspective on the different confirmed and predicted ecological roles of natural products fromPhotorhabdusandXenorhabdus, two genera of entomopathogenic bacteria living in symbiosis withHeterorhabditisandSteinernemanematodes.
Natural product gelators and a general method for obtaining them from organisms
Authors: Zhi Kangkang , Zhao Haitian , Yang Xin , Zhang Hua , Wang Jiacheng , Wang Jing , Regenstein Joe M.
Published: January 2018

We describe naturally derived gelators (natural product gelators, NPGs) which are distinguished from synthetic gelators reported previously.
Supramolecular chiroptical switching of helical-sense preferences through the two-way intramolecular transmission of a single chiral source
Authors: Katoono Ryo , Kusaka Keiichi , Tanaka Yuki , Fujiwara Kenshu , Suzuki Takanori
Published: January 2018

Complexation-induced reversal of helical-sense preferences is demonstrated with a simple molecule with a pair of exciton-coupled chromophores.
Polar organometallic strategies for regioselective C–H metallation of N-heterocyclic carbenes
Authors: Uzelac Marina , Hevia Eva
Published: January 2018

This Feature Article focuses on the recent emergence of s-block metal-mediated N-heterocyclic carbene metallations and the new opportunities this methodology offers to access unique anionic NHC fragments.
Regulating morphologies and near-infrared photothermal conversion of perylene bisimide via sequence-dependent peptide self-assembly
Authors: Cui Lingyun , Jiao Yang , Wang Anhe , Zhao Luyang , Dong Qianqian , Yan Xuehai , Bai Shuo
Published: January 2018

The behavior of PBI self-assembly can be precisely organised by the conjugation of sequence dependent dipeptides in aqueous media resulting in different assembled nanostructures with improved radical anions yield and enhanced photothermal conversion efficiency.
Correction: Model of protocell compartments – dodecyl hydrogen sulfate vesicles
Authors: Liu Bin , Gao Meihua , Li Haiping , Liu Jianqiang , Yuan Shiling , Du Na , Hou Wanguo
Published: January 2018

Correction for ‘Model of protocell compartments – dodecyl hydrogen sulfate vesicles’ by Bin Liu et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2018, DOI: 10.1039/c7cp06379b.
A solvent-free, one-step synthesis of sulfonic acid group-functionalized mesoporous organosilica with ultra-high acid concentrations and excellent catalytic activities
Authors: Wu Qin , Liu Fujian , Yi Xianfeng , Zou Yongcun , Jiang Lilong
Published: January 2018

A green, solvent-free and rapid synthesis of highly sulfonic acid group-functionalized mesoporous organosilica, which act as efficient solid acid in biomass conversion and fine chemicals synthesis.
Correction: TiO2/vanadate (Sr10V6O25, Ni3V2O8, Zn2V2O7) heterostructured photocatalysts with enhanced photocatalytic activity for photoreduction of CO2 into CH4
Authors: Yan Yabin , Yu Yanlong , Wu Di , Yang Yajun , Cao Yaan
Published: January 2018

Correction for ‘TiO2/vanadate (Sr10V6O25, Ni3V2O8, Zn2V2O7) heterostructured photocatalysts with enhanced photocatalytic activity for photoreduction of CO2 into CH4′ by Yabin Yan et al., Nanoscale, 2016, 8, 949–958.
Gene delivery of medium chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase induces physiological cardiac hypertrophy and protects against pathological remodelling
Authors: Bernardo Bianca C. , Weeks Kate L. , Pongsukwechkul Thawin , Gao Xiaoming , Kiriazis Helen , Cemerlang Nelly , Boey Esther J.H. , Tham Yow Keat , Johnson Chad J. , Qian Hongwei , Du Xiao-Jun , Gregorevic Paul , McMullen Julie R.
Published: January 2018

We previously showed that medium chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase (MCAD, key regulator of fatty acid oxidation) is positively modulated in the heart by the cardioprotective kinase, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K(p110α)). Disturbances in cardiac metabolism are a feature of heart failure (HF) patients and targeting metabolic defects is considered a potential therapeutic approach. The specific role of MCAD in the adult heart is unknown. To examine the role of MCAD in the heart and to assess the therapeutic potential of increasing MCAD in the failing heart, we developed a gene therapy tool using recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAV) encoding MCAD. We hypothesised that increasing MCAD expression may recapitulate the cardioprotective properties of PI3K(p110α). rAAV6:MCAD or rAAV6:control was delivered to healthy adult mice and to mice with pre-existing pathological hypertrophy and cardiac dysfunction due to transverse aortic constriction (TAC). In healthy mice, rAAV6:MCAD induced physiological hypertrophy (increase in heart size, normal systolic function and increased capillary density). In response to TAC (~15 weeks), heart weight/tibia length increased by ~60% in control mice and ~45% in rAAV6:MCAD mice compared with sham. This was associated with an increase in cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area in both TAC groups which was similar. However, hypertrophy in TAC rAAV6:MCAD mice was associated with less fibrosis, a trend for increased capillary density and a more favourable molecular profile compared with TAC rAAV6:control mice. In summary, MCAD induced physiological cardiac hypertrophy in healthy adult mice and attenuated features of pathological remodelling in a cardiac disease model.
Blockade of histone deacetylase 6 protects against cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Tang Jinhua , Shi Yingfeng , Liu Na , Xu Liuqing , Zang Xiujuan , Li Peibin , Zhang Juanlian , Zheng Xiaoqing , Qiu Andong , Zhuang Shougang
Published: January 2018

Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) has been shown to be involved in various pathological conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders and inflammatory diseases. Nonetheless, its specific role in drug-induced nephrotoxicity is poorly understood. Cisplatin (dichlorodiamino platinum) belongs to an inorganic platinum – fundamental chemotherapeutic drug utilized in the therapy of various solid malignant tumors. However, the use of cisplatin is extremely limited by obvious side effects, for instance bone marrow suppression and nephrotoxicity. In the present study, we utilized a murine model of cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) and a highly selective inhibitor of HDAC6, tubastatin A (TA), to assess the role of HDAC6 in nephrotoxicity and its associated mechanisms. Cisplatin-induced AKI was accompanied by increased expression and activation of HDAC6; blocking HDAC6 with TA lessened renal dysfunction, attenuated renal pathological changes, reduced expression of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and kidney injury molecule 1, and decreased tubular cell apoptosis. In cultured human epithelial cells, TA or HDAC6 siRNA treatment also inhibited cisplatin-induced apoptosis. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that cisplatin treatment induced phosphorylation of AKT and loss of E-cadherin in the nephrotoxic kidney, and administration of TA enhanced AKT phosphorylation and preserved E-cadherin expression. HDAC6 inhibition also potentiated autophagy as evidenced by increased expression of autophagy-related gene (Atg) 7 (Atg7), Beclin-1, and decreased renal oxidative stress as demonstrated by up-regulation of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and down-regulation of malondialdehyde levels. Moreover, TA was effective in inhibiting nuclear factor-κ B (NF-κB) phosphorylation and suppressing the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Collectively, these data provide strong evidence that HDAC6 inhibition is protective against cisplatin-induced AKI and suggest that HDAC6 may be a potential therapeutic target for AKI treatment.
Quadratic boost converter based on stackable switching stages
Authors: Valdez‐Resendiz Jesus E. , Rosas‐Caro Julio C. , Mayo‐Maldonado Jonathan C. , Llamas‐Terres Armando
Published: January 2018

The authors propose a novel step‐up converter with stackable switching stages that is suitable for renewable energy applications. On the one hand, the converter gain corresponds to that of the traditional quadratic boost converter, achieving an arbitrary exponential gain in extended configurations. On the other hand, the proposed converter requires a single switch, while the output voltage is partitioned among several capacitors. As argued in this work, the features of the proposed topology represent a significant contribution with respect to standard topologies that exhibit greater voltage stress. The operation principle and the main characteristics of the proposed converter are validated with experimental results.
An ALMA study of the Orion Integral Filament
Authors: Hacar A. , Tafalla M. , Forbrich J. , Alves J. , Meingast S. , Grossschedl J. , Teixeira P. S.
Published: January 2018

Aim. We have investigated the gas organization within the paradigmatic Integral Shape Filament (ISF) in Orion in order to decipher whether or not all filaments are bundles of fibers.

Methods. We combined two new ALMA Cycle 3 mosaics with previous IRAM 30m observations to produce a high-dynamic range N2H+ (1-0) emission map of the ISF tracing its high-density material and velocity structure down to scales of 0.009 pc (or ~2000 AU).

Results. From the analysis of the gas kinematics, we identify a total of 55 dense fibers in the central region of the ISF. Independently of their location in the cloud, these fibers are characterized by transonic internal motions, lengths of ~0.15 pc, and masses per unit length close to those expected in hydrostatic equilibrium. The ISF fibers are spatially organized forming a dense bundle with multiple hub-like associations likely shaped by the local gravitational potential. Within this complex network, the ISF fibers show a compact radial emission profile with a median FWHM of 0.035 pc systematically narrower than the previously proposed universal 0.1 pc filament width.

Conclusions. Our ALMA observations reveal complex bundles of fibers in the ISF, suggesting strong similarities between the internal substructure of this massive filament and previously studied lower-mass objects. The fibers show identical dynamic properties in both low- and high-mass regions, and their widespread detection in nearby clouds suggests a preferred organizational mechanism of gas in which the physical fiber dimensions (width and length) are self-regulated depending on their intrinsic gas density. Combining these results with previous works in Musca, Taurus, and Perseus, we identify a systematic increase of the surface density of fibers as a function of the total mass per-unit-length in filamentary clouds. Based on this empirical correlation, we propose a unified star-formation scenario where the observed differences between low- and high-mass clouds, and the origin of clusters, emerge naturally from the initial concentration of fibers.
Le pôle sojicole sud-américain
Authors: Guibert Martine
Published: January 2018

En Amérique du Sud, depuis une quarantaine d’années, le soja s’est imposé dans les régions rurales historiquement consolidées (Pampa argentine, Sud du Brésil, Ouest uruguayen, Est paraguayen) ainsi que dans les zones de fronts agricoles (Cerrado brésilien, Chaco argentin,Orientebolivien). Il entre dans les schémas de double culture annuelle sur la même parcelle et il a accéléré le délaissement de la combinaison élevage-agriculture au profit d’une agriculture en continu. Ainsi, cinq pays se sont progressivement spécialisés dans la production de ce protéagineux : Brésil tout d’abord, Argentine et Bolivie ensuite, Paraguay et Uruguay enfin. Cependant, au-delà d’une apparente convergence sous-continentale, certaines modalités régionales et locales diffèrent. De plus, au côté des États-Unis, ces pays constituent l’autre grand pôle sojicole du continent américain, qui s’est à son tour rendu incontournable sur le marché mondial des quatre co-produits : graines, protéine, huile brute et biodiesel. En effet, si le Brésil possède un marché national conséquent, les autres pays produisent du soja pour l’exporter.
Recent Progress in Palladium-Catalyzed Cascade Cyclizations for Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Ohno Hiroaki , Inuki Shinsuke
Published: January 2018

Cascade reactions (also represented as domino reactions) realize the step-economical direct construction of natural product core structures. The use of atom-economical elementary reactions in cascade processes can minimize waste production and avoid prefunctionalization of the substrates. Palladium catalysis, which promotes a variety of atom-economical elementary reactions, has long been used as a powerful approach to the direct formation of complex heterocycles. In this short review, palladium-catalyzed cascade reactions for the construction of core structures of natural products reported in the last decade­ are highlighted.

1 Introduction

2 Reactions Terminated with Heteronucleophiles

2.1 Termination with Nitrogen Nucleophiles

2.2 Termination with Oxygen Nucleophiles

3 Reactions Terminated with Carbon Functional Groups

3.1 Termination with Carbon Nucleophiles

3.2 Termination with Heck-Type Reactions

4 Conclusion
An Efficient Ag+-Selective Fluorescent Chemosensor Derived from Tribenzotriquinacene
Authors: Cao Xiao-Ping , Chow Hak-Fun , Kuck Dietmar , Li Zhi-Min , Hu Da , Wei Jun , Qi Qiuli
Published: January 2018

A new C
3v
-symmetrical tribenzotriquinacene (TBTQ) derivative bearing six 8-quinolinyloxymethyl units at the rim of the bowl-shaped molecular framework is synthesized in a single-step by six-fold etherification of the corresponding hexakis(chloromethyl)-TBTQ precursor with 8-hydroxyquinoline. The resulting compound acts as a fluorescence chemosensor, producing a ‘turn-off’ fluorescent quenching response in the presence of Ag+ ions, and is highly selective toward Ag+ over other cations, such as Al3+, Ca2+, Cd2+, Co2+, Cr3+, Cu2+, Fe3+, Ga3+, Hg2+, In3+, K+, Mg2+, Mn2+, Na+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Pd2+, and Zn2+. The fluorescence intensity change of the chemosensor solution can be clearly observed by the naked eye upon addition of silver salts.
Transition-Metal-Free C–H Arylation of Unactivated Arenes with 8-Hydroxyquinoline as a Promoter
Authors: Wu Deyan , Wu Yinuo , Zheng Xuehua , Wu Xu-Nian , Chen Jing-Yi , Luo Hai-Bin
Published: January 2018

A method for the transition-metal-free direct C–H arylation of unactivated arenes is developed with aryl bromides as substrates and 8-hydroxyquinoline as an efficient promoter. A variety of biaryl compounds with structural diversity are obtained in moderate to high yields. Mechanistic studies reveal that the reaction proceeds via a homolytic­ aromatic substitution pathway.
A Neonate with an Unusual Midline Defect and Cardiovascular Anomaly
Authors: Poryo Martin , Hoffmann Paul , Schäfers Hans-Joachim , Meier Clemens-Magnus , Altmeyer Katrin , Abdul-Khaliq Hashim , Zemlin Michael , Meyer Sascha
Published: January 2018

We present a female neonate with a sternal cleft (SC) and additional aortic aneurysm who presented with respiratory failure. Stabilization of the SC was achieved by using the xyphoid process as an autologous graft bridging the upper part of the SC. We conclude that a step-wise correction of the SC with the use of an autologous graft may improve respiratory function, and should be considered when complete surgical correction is not feasible.
Comparing the Efficacy of the Total Stabilizing and Posterior Stabilizing Knee Prostheses in Obese and Preobese Females: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Worhacz Kellen , Jacofsky Marc , Jacofsky David , Ahmed Sarim
Published: January 2018

Obesity is associated with increased surgical complications that may lead to suboptimal total knee arthroplasty (TKA) outcomes. Additionally, females exhibit increased rates of severe, clinical osteoarthritis OA, along with increased ligamentous laxity. Therefore, obese females present a particularly challenging case for TKA with increased joint loads coupled with a propensity for instability. This study retrospectively analyzed knee range of motion and stability of one TKA designs with two different degrees of polyethylene conformity in the obese female population. The implants (Stryker Triathlon total stabilizing [TS] and Stryker Triathlon posterior stabilizing [PS]) differ in their level of constraint, with the TS being more constrained. We hypothesized that the TS implants would be associated with improved functional outcomes in the obese female population, secondary to increased coronal stability to offset the ligamentous laxity. Of 482 knees reviewed, 173 met the inclusion criteria of: female, body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25, receiving TS (N = 93), or PS (N = 8). Primary knee outcome measures were: active flexion, passive flexion, active extension, passive extension, and stability at 0° and 30° flexion. These factors were statistically analyzed at preop, 2-week, 6-week, 3-month, and 1-year time points. Preoperatively, the TS cohort was significantly higher in BMI and knee laxity, potentially starting this cohort at a functional disadvantage. Postoperatively, the TS implant was associated with a statistically significant early improvement in active and passive knee extension. There was no longer any significant difference in knee laxity postop. Our data support the hypothesis that obese females may benefit from the increased stability afforded by the TS design.
Evidence that Extreme Dilutions of Paclitaxel and Docetaxel Alter Gene Expression of In Vitro Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Şeker Sinem , Güven Celal , Akçakaya Handan , Bahtiyar Nurten , Akbaş Fahri , Onaran İlhan
Published: January 2018

Background Gene expression analysis of cells treated with extreme dilutions or micro amounts of drugs has been used to provide useful suggestions about biological responses. However, most of the previous studies were performed on medicines being prepared from a variety of herbal and metal sources. This study investigated the effects of ultramolecular dilution of the taxane anti-cancer drugs, which are not commonly used in homeopathic medicines, on mRNA expression profiles of five key genes (p53, p21, COX-2, TUBB2A and TUBB3) in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7.

Method MCF-7 cells were exposed to paclitaxel (Taxol) or docetaxel (Taxotere) preparations (6X, 5C and 15C dilutions prepared from pharmacological concentration of 25 nmol/L) for 72 hours. The cell culture groups were evaluated with the trypan blue dye exclusion method for the proliferation/cytotoxicity rates, immuno-staining β-tubulin for microtubule organization, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for gene expression levels.Fold-change in gene expression was determined by the ΔΔCt method.

Results The administration of diluted preparations had little or no cytotoxic effect on MCF-7 cells, but altered the expression of genes analyzed with a complex effect. According to the ΔΔCt method with a five-fold expression difference (p < 0.05) as a cut-off level, ultra-high dilutions of paclitaxel and docetaxel showed differential effects on the studied genes with a concentration-independent activity. Furthermore, the dilutions disrupted the microtubule structure of MCF-7 cells, suggesting that they retain their biological activity.

Conclusion Despite some limitations, our findings demonstrate that gene expression alterations also occur with ultra-high dilutions of taxane drugs.
Cataract Surgery Cancellations: An Analysis of Financial and Resident Training Implications at a Major Eye Institution
Authors: Padidam Sneha , Wisner Douglas , Kenney Brianna , Peterson Jared , Pizzi Laura , Leiby Benjamin , Hark Lisa , Bailey Robert ,   the Wills Cataract Research Group
Published: January 2018

Purpose The objective of this study was to assess reasons for cancellation of resident-performed cataract surgery, identify modifiable barriers to completion of the surgery on the scheduled date, and analyze the healthcare reimbursements and educational experiences lost as a result of cancellations.

Setting General eye clinic staffed by residents in a major urban center.

Design Retrospective, observational study.

Methods The study compared patients (older than 18 years) who canceled their cataract surgery to patients who underwent surgery on their scheduled date. Cancellation and reimbursement information was obtained from the surgical coordinator's scheduling book and billing information. Demographic information was obtained from patient electronic medical records, and scheduling logs. A brief phone survey was implemented to identify patient's barriers to surgery if a reason for cancellation was undocumented.

Results The overall cancellation rate over 1-year was 29.54% and most common overall reason for cancellation was that preadmission testing (PAT) was not completed in time for the procedure. Overall, 72% of the cancellations were made within 7 days of the surgery. The total estimated lost potential reimbursement due to cancellation was $844,370. The relative loss of surgical opportunities for residents throughout this 1-year period was 230 cases or 29 surgeries per resident.

Conclusion These findings have prompted a new study testing whether on-site mandatory PATs conducted on the same day as the patient's ophthalmology evaluation will reduce cataract surgery cancellation rates.
Eye Care Industry Analysis
Authors: Pathipati Akhilesh , Tsai James
Published: January 2018

Eye care is a large and growing industry in the United States. Demographic and lifestyle trends will spur increased demand in coming years, but industry earnings will depend on the state of regulation and health care reform. Ophthalmologists and optometrists are the two major service providers in the industry. While the markets for both professions are currently fragmented, the wave of consolidation and commoditization in health care will likely catch up to eye care in coming years. Scope of practice legislation continues to be a topic of heated debate. As it evolves, consolidated practices will move toward an integrated model that uses both types of providers to meet demand.
Impact of Duration of Perioperative Ischemia on Outcomes of Microsurgical Reconstructions
Authors: Heidekrueger Paul , Ninkovic Milomir , Broer P. , Ehrl Denis
Published: January 2018

Background Free tissue transfers have become routine for a variety of reconstructive purposes. During the time of transfer, some period of ischemia time is unavoidable, causing structural and metabolic changes. This study aimed to evaluate whether length of intraoperative ischemia affects the outcomes of microsurgical reconstructions.

Methods Within a 7-year period, 638 patients having undergone 690 microvascular free flap reconstructions fulfilled inclusion criteria for this study. The data were retrospectively screened for patients' demographics, intra- and perioperative details, flap survival, surgical complications, and outcomes. The cases were divided into two groups according to the length of intraoperative ischemia time, “< 60” versus “≥ 60 minutes.”

Results Both groups were comparable regarding the patient constellation, comorbidities, smoking status, and perioperative characteristics. Operative times were significantly longer in patients which had ischemia times of ≥ 60 minutes (p < 0.05). Also, during our 3-month follow-up period, a significantly higher rate of major and minor surgical complications, including total and partial flap losses, as well as higher revision rates occurred in the ≥ 60 minutes ischemia time group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion In this study, prolonged ischemia time during free flap reconstructions was associated with higher rates of revision surgeries and complications rates.
The N-of-1 Clinical Trial: A Timely Research Opportunity in Homeopathy
Authors: Ulbrich-Zürni Susanne , Teut Michael , Roll Stephanie , Mathie Robert
Published: January 2018

Background The randomised controlled trial (RCT) is considered the ‘gold standard’ for establishing treatment efficacy or effectiveness of an intervention, but its data do not infer response in an individual patient. Individualised clinical care, a fundamental principle in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), including homeopathy, seems well disposed in principle to being researched by single-patient (N-of-1) study design. Guidelines for reporting N-of-1 trials have recently been developed.

Objective To overview the current status in the literature of the N-of-1 method and its application in medicine, including CAM. To consider whether the N-of-1 trial design offers an opportunity for novel research in homeopathy.

N-of-1 Trial Design The N-of-1 trial applies the principles of the conventional crossover, blinded, RCT design. The treatment under study and the comparator are repeated in a randomised order, and with suitable washout time, over a defined period. N-of-1 design is constrained for use in chronic stable conditions, and for interventions that have quick onset and cessation of effect, with modest or negligible carryover. Outcome data can be aggregated and interpreted for the individual subject; they can also be pooled with data from several similar N-of-1 trials, enabling more generalisable conclusions.

The N-of-1 Trial in CAM The typical individualisation of patient care can be accommodated in N-of-1 study design if the patient and the specific therapeutic intervention are selected within the constraints of the method. Application of the N-of-1 method in CAM has been advocated but has been mainly limited, in practice, to a small number of studies in herbal and traditional Chinese medicine.

The N-of-1 Trial in Homeopathy Individualised homeopathy can be accommodated for investigation within the same methodological constraints; less in-depth homeopathic approaches to prescribing are also amendable to investigation using the N-of-1 method. No such studies have been published. We identify three main targets in its ready applicability to homeopathy: (1) to optimise clinical care in an individual patient; (2) to investigate whether the outcomes of treatment using homeopathy differ from those of placebo; (3) to aggregate data from a series of N-of-1 trials to enable broader conclusions about a group of patients or intervention.

Conclusion The N-of-1 trial design offers important new investigative possibilities in homeopathy and should be explored as a means to optimise individualised health care or investigate effectiveness of the homeopathic intervention compared with placebo in individual subjects.
HPV bei Oropharynxkarzinomen in der 8. Ausgabe der TNM-Klassifikation
Authors: Hoffmann Markus , Tribius Silke
Published: January 2018

Die 8. Ausgabe der TNM-Klassifikation ist seit dem 01.01.2017 gültig und beinhaltet Veränderungen dieser
Klassifikation für verschiedene Malignome. Solche Änderungen zeigen sich im Kopf-Hals-Bereich für
Plattenepithelkarzinome des Oropharynx (OPC): es wird zwischen HPV-positiven und HPV-negativen Karzinomen
unterschieden, um durch die daran adaptierte neue Stadieneinteilung die Prognose der Patienten mit OPC
insgesamt besser abschätzen zu können. Die Anwendung der neuen TNM-Klassifikation beim HPV-positiven OPC führt
in vielen Fällen zu einem signifikanten Downstaging von lokal fortgeschrittener (UICC III/IV) hin zu lokal
begrenzter (UICC I/II) Erkrankung. Letzterem zugrundliegende Daten mit einem signifikanten Überlebensvorteil
der Patienten mit HPV-positiven OPC entstammen bisher ausschließlich retrospektiven Analysen, die nicht dafür
ausgelegt sind zu testen, ob deeskalierte Therapieregime den Überlebensvorteil dieser Patienten erhalten
können. Dieser CME-Beitrag versucht Antworten auf offene Fragen hinsichtlich Pathologie, Tumorcharakteristik
und Lebensstil-Faktoren zu geben, die für die Prognose dieser Patientenpopulation eine Rolle spielen. Nur die
genaue Kenntnis aller Parameter, die die Überlebenszeiten von Patienten mit OPC beeinflussen und die präzise
Interpretation vorliegender und noch zu erhebender Daten wird es ermöglichen, den Patienten entsprechend ihrem
Risikoprofil die bestmögliche Therapie anzubieten und so das bestmögliche Behandlungsergebnis zu erzielen.
Response of Cerebral Blood Flow and Blood Pressure to Dynamic Exercise: A Study Using PET
Authors: Hiura Mikio , Nariai Tadashi , Sakata Muneyuki , Muta Akitaka , Ishibashi Kenji , Wagatsuma Kei , Tago Tetsuro , Toyohara Jun , Ishii Kenji , Maehara Taketoshi
Published: January 2018

Dynamic exercise elicits fluctuations in blood pressure (BP) and cerebral blood flow (CBF). This study investigated responses in BP and CBF during cycling exercise and post-exercise hypotension (PEH) using positron emission tomography (PET). CBF was measured using oxygen-15-labeled water (H2
15O) and PET in 11 human subjects at rest (Rest), at the onset of exercise (Ex1), later in the exercise (Ex2), and during PEH. Global CBF significantly increased by 13% at Ex1 compared with Rest, but was unchanged at Ex2 and during PEH. Compared with at Rest, regional CBF (rCBF) increased at Ex1 (20~42%) in the cerebellar vermis, sensorimotor cortex for the bilateral legs (M1Leg and S1Leg), insular cortex and brain stem, but increased at Ex2 (28~31%) only in the vermis and M1Leg and S1Leg. During PEH, rCBF decreased compared with Rest (8~13%) in the cerebellum, temporal gyrus, piriform lobe, thalamus and pons. The areas showing correlations between rCBF and mean BP during exercise and PEH were consistent with the central autonomic network, including the brain stem, cerebellum, and hypothalamus (R2=0.25–0.64). The present study suggests that higher brain regions are coordinated through reflex centers in the brain stem in order to regulate the cardiovascular response to exercise.
Role of Indocyanine Green in Fluorescence Imaging with Near-Infrared Light to Identify Sentinel Lymph Nodes, Lymphatic Vessels and Pathways Prior to Surgery – A Critical Evaluation of Options
Authors: Hackethal Andreas , Hirschburger Markus , Eicker Sven , Mücke Thomas , Lindner Christoph , Buchweitz Olaf
Published: January 2018

Modern surgical strategies aim to reduce trauma by using functional imaging to improve surgical outcomes. This reviews considers and evaluates the importance of the fluorescent dye indocyanine green (ICG) to visualize lymph nodes, lymphatic pathways and vessels and tissue borders in an interdisciplinary setting. The work is based on a selective search of the literature in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar and the authorsʼ own clinical experience. Because of its simple, radiation-free and uncomplicated application, ICG has become an important clinical indicator in recent years. In oncologic surgery ICG is used extensively to identify sentinel lymph nodes with promising results. In some studies, the detection rates with ICG have been better than the rates obtained with established procedures. When ICG is used for visualization and the quantification of tissue perfusion, it can lead to fewer cases of anastomotic insufficiency or transplant necrosis. The use of ICG for the imaging of organ borders, flap plasty borders and postoperative vascularization has also been scientifically evaluated. Combining the easily applied ICG dye with technical options for intraoperative and interventional visualization has the potential to create new functional imaging procedures which, in future, could expand or even replace existing established surgical techniques, particularly the techniques used for sentinel lymph node and anastomosis imaging.
Veränderung der Symptombelastung und der Funktionsfähigkeit gemäß ICF in der stationären psychosomatischen Rehabilitation
Authors: Braunger Carina , Müller Gottfried , von Wietersheim Jörn , Oster Jörg
Published: January 2018

Hintergrund In dieser naturalistischen Studie wurden Veränderungen bei Patienten einer stationären psychosomatischen Rehabilitation im Hinblick auf die Funktionsfähigkeit und der Symptombelastung untersucht.

Methode Es wurden Selbsteinschätzungen der Patienten zu ihrer Funktionsfähigkeit anhand des ICF AT-50 Psych und der Symptombelastung (GSI) zu 3 Messzeitpunkten erhoben: bei Aufnahme (n=419), bei Entlassung (n=354) und 6 Monate nach Entlassung (n=297).

Ergebnisse Sowohl Funktionsfähigkeit als auch Symptombelastung verbesserten sich von t1 nach t2. Hinsichtlich der Funktionsfähigkeit zeigte sich dabei eine Verbesserung auf globaler und spezifischer Ebene. Von t2 nach t3 nahm die Symptombelastung wieder etwas zu, während das Niveau der Funktionsfähigkeit eher stabil blieb. Veränderungen der Symptombelastung korrelieren hoch mit Veränderungen der Funktionsfähigkeit.

Diskussion Die Ergebnisse weisen darauf hin, dass sich die Psychosomatische Rehabilitation positiv auf die Funktionsfähigkeit auswirkt. In der Therapieplanung sollten die Ebene der Symptombelastung und der Funktionsfähigkeit beachtet werden. Kontrollierte Studien sind zu fordern.
Secondary Hyperparathyroidism in HIV-Infected Patients in Central Europe
Authors: Noe Sebastian , Oldenbuettel Celia , Heldwein Silke , Wiese Carmen , von Krosigk Ariane , Pascucci Rita , Ruecker Katharina , Jaeger Hans , Wolf Eva
Published: January 2018

Secondary hyperparathyroidism (sHPT) might be a contributor to increased risk of osteoporosis in adult HIV patients but there is little data available on this issue in this particular population. The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of sHPT in an HIV-infected population with normal kidney function and to evaluate its risk factors in HIV patients. This cross-sectional study was carried out in a single HIV center in Germany using routine data from patients with normal kidney function attending the clinic between January 1st and December 31st, 2016. In total, 1263 patients were included [998 (79.0%) male, median age 48 (IQR 38–54) years]. In 214 patients (16.9%) elevated PTH levels with low or normal calcium levels were found. Multivariate logistic regression modeling showed significant associations with elevated PTH for African ethnicity [OR: 2.12 (95% CI: 1.42–3.16); p<0.001], low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels [OR: 1.82 (95% CI: 1.32–2.51); p<0.001], low calcium levels [OR 1.69 (95% CI: 1.22–2.33); p=0.001], and use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate [OR 2.33 (95% CI: 1.62–3.36); p<0.001]. Additional to common risk factors like vitamin D insufficiency and hypocalcemia, we found a significant association between the use of TDF and sHPT. Prospective data are needed to ascertain whether PTH-mediated bone loss is the underlying mechanism of TDF bone-toxicity. Additional screening of PTH even in HIV-infected patients with normal or low calcium levels may help to identify patients at increased risk of bone mineral density loss.
Schwerpunktüberprüfung ambulanter Wohngemeinschaften der außerklinischen Intensivpflege im Stadtgebiet München – Ergebnisse und Rückschlüsse
Authors: Horvath Leila , Böhm Doris , Gleich Sabine
Published: January 2018

Hintergrund Die Versorgung intensivpflegebedürftiger, auch langzeitbeatmeter Menschen findet zunehmend in ambulanten Wohngemeinschaften der außerklinischen Intensivpflege (aWG) statt. Im Rahmen seiner Überwachungstätigkeit überprüfte das Referat für Gesundheit und Umwelt (RGU) im Zeitraum vom April 2015 bis August 2016 ambulante Pflegedienste, die sich auf diese Versorgungsform im Stadtgebiet München spezialisiert haben.

Methode Zunächst erfolgte die Strukturanalyse der Pflegeanbieter mithilfe von standardisierten Checklisten. Mit Einverständnis der Klienten bzw. Betreuer wurde im Anschluss eine Begehung der aWG durchgeführt. Die erhobenen Daten wurden ausgewertet und deskriptiv analysiert.

Ergebnisse Von 43 gemeldeten aWG im Stadtgebiet München waren 20 für die außerklinische Intensivpflege konzipiert. Diese wurden von 9 Pflegediensten versorgt. Es zeigte sich ein gutes Prüfergebnis in der Strukturanalyse und beim Hygienemanagement. Verbesserungspotenzial fand sich bei der Umsetzung infektionskritischer Tätigkeiten vor Ort und bei deren korrekter Darstellung in den Hygieneplänen. Grundsätzlicher Regelungsbedarf besteht für die Personalqualifikation sowie für die Strukturen für Notfallinterventionen z. B. bei Stromausfällen.

Schlussfolgerung Es zeigte sich, dass regelmäßige Beratungen, Schulungen sowie infektionshygienische Überprüfungen durch das Gesundheitsamt sich positiv auf das Hygiene- und Notfallmanagement von ambulanten Intensivpflegediensten auswirken. Bundesweit einheitliche und verbindliche Qualitätsstandards und Kontrollmöglichkeiten existieren bei dieser Versorgungsform jedoch nicht und sind bislang auch nicht vorgesehen.
Recent Advances in Cell Electrospining of Natural and Synthetic Nanofibers for Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Zamani Reza , Aval Sedigheh , Pilehvar-Soltanahmadi Younes , Nejati-Koshki Kazem , Zarghami Nosratollah
Published: January 2018

The progression of nanotechnology provides opportunities to manipulate synthetic and natural materials to mimic the natural structure for tissue engineering applications. The electrospinning technique applies electrostatic principle to fabricate electrospun nanofibers. Nanofiber scaffolds are precisely similar to the native extracellular matrix (ECM) and support cell proliferation, adhesion, tendency to preserve their phenotypic shape and directed growth according to the nanofiber direction. This study reviewed both the natural and synthetic type of nanofibers and described the different properties used to trigger certain process in the tissue development. Also, the potential applications of electrospun scaffolds for regenerative medicine were summarized.
High resolution thickness measurements of ultrathin Si:P monolayers using weak localization
Authors: Hagmann Joseph A. , Wang Xiqiao , Namboodiri Pradeep , Wyrick Jonathan , Murray Roy , Stewart M. D. , Silver Richard M. , Richter Curt A.
Published: January 2018

The key building blocks for the fabrication of devices based on the deterministic placement of dopants in silicon using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) hydrogen lithography are the formation of well-defined dopant delta-layers and the overgrowth of high quality crystalline Si. To develop these capabilities, it is of critical importance to quantify dopant movement in the sub-nanometer regime. To this end, we investigate Si:P delta-layer samples produced by fully exposing a Si surface to PH3 prior to Si encapsulation with dramatically different levels of dopant confinement. We examine the effect of delta layer confinement on the weak localization signal in parallel and perpendicular magnetic fields and extract the delta-layer thickness from fits to the Hikami-Larkin-Nagaoka equation. We find good agreement with secondary ion mass spectroscopy measurements and demonstrate the applicability of this method in the sub-nanometer thickness regime. Our analysis serves as detailed instruction for the determination of the conducting layer thickness of a Si:P delta-layer by means of a high-throughput, nondestructive electrical transport measurement.
On multivariate trace inequalities of Sutter, Berta, and Tomamichel
Authors: Lemm Marius
Published: January 2018

We consider a family of multivariate trace inequalities recently derived by Sutter, Berta, and Tomamichel. These inequalities generalize the Golden-Thompson inequality and Lieb’s triple matrix inequality to an arbitrary number of matrices in a way that features complex matrix powers (i.e., certain unitaries). We show that their inequalities can be rewritten as an n-matrix generalization of Lieb’s original triple matrix inequality. The complex matrix powers are replaced by resolvents and appropriate maximally entangled states. We expect that the technically advantageous properties of resolvents, in particular for perturbation theory, can be of use in applications of the n-matrix inequalities, e.g., for analyzing the performance of the rotated Petz recovery map in quantum information theory and for removing the unitaries altogether.
Particle-like structure of coaxial Lie algebras
Authors: Vinogradov A. M.
Published: January 2018

This paper is a natural continuation of Vinogradov [J. Math. Phys. 58, 071703 (2017)] where we proved that any Lie algebra over an algebraically closed field or over R can be assembled in a number of steps from two elementary constituents, called dyons and triadons. Here we consider the problems of the construction and classification of those Lie algebras which can be assembled in one step from base dyons and triadons, called coaxial Lie algebras. The base dyons and triadons are Lie algebra structures that have only one non-trivial structure constant in a given basis, while coaxial Lie algebras are linear combinations of pairwise compatible base dyons and triadons. We describe the maximal families of pairwise compatible base dyons and triadons called clusters, and, as a consequence, we give a complete description of the coaxial Lie algebras. The remarkable fact is that dyons and triadons in clusters are self-organised in structural groups which are surrounded by casings and linked by connectives. We discuss generalisations and applications to the theory of deformations of Lie algebras.
Deciphering complex dynamics of water counteraction around secondary structural elements of allosteric protein complex: Case study of SAP-SLAM system in signal transduction cascade
Authors: Samanta Sudipta , Mukherjee Sanchita
Published: January 2018

The first hydration shell of a protein exhibits heterogeneous behavior owing to several attributes, majorly local polarity and structural flexibility as revealed by solvation dynamics of secondary structural elements. We attempt to recognize the change in complex water counteraction generated due to substantial alteration in flexibility during protein complex formation. The investigation is carried out with the signaling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAM) family of receptors, expressed by an array of immune cells, and interacting with SLAM-associated protein (SAP), composed of one SH2 domain. All atom molecular dynamics simulations are employed to the aqueous solutions of free SAP and SLAM-peptide bound SAP. We observed that water dynamics around different secondary structural elements became highly affected as well as nicely correlated with the SLAM-peptide induced change in structural rigidity obtained by thermodynamic quantification. A few instances of contradictory dynamic features of water to the change in structural flexibility are explained by means of occluded polar residues by the peptide. For βD, EFloop, and BGloop, both structural flexibility and solvent accessibility of the residues confirm the obvious contribution. Most importantly, we have quantified enhanced restriction in water dynamics around the second Fyn-binding site of the SAP due to SAP-SLAM complexation, even prior to the presence of Fyn. This observation leads to a novel argument that SLAM induced more restricted water molecules could offer more water entropic contribution during the subsequent Fyn binding and provide enhanced stability to the SAP-Fyn complex in the signaling cascade. Finally, SLAM induced water counteraction around the second binding site of the SAP sheds light on the allosteric property of the SAP, which becomes an integral part of the underlying signal transduction mechanism.