bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unique, Intersecting, and Overlapping Roles of C/EBP β and CREB in Cells of the Innate Immune System
Authors: Larabee Jason L. , Hauck Garrett , Ballard Jimmy D.
Published: November 2018

CREB and C/EBP β signaling pathways are modulated during inflammation and also targeted by Bacillus anthracis edema toxin (ET), but how these factors individually and jointly contribute to changes in immune cell function is poorly understood. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, macrophage cell lines lacking CREB and isoforms of C/EBP β were generated and analyzed for changes in responses to LPS, ET, and IL-4. Macrophages lacking C/EBP β suppressed induction of IL-10 and Arg1, while IL-6 was increased in these cells following exposure to LPS. Examination of C/EBP β isoforms indicated the 38 kDa isoform was necessary for the expression of IL-10 and Arg1. ChIP-Seq analysis of CREB and C/EBP β binding to targets on the chromosome of human PBMC identified several regions where both factors overlapped in their binding, suggesting similar gene targeting or cooperative effects. Based on the ChIP-Seq data, a panel of previously unknown targets of CREB and C/EBP β was identified and includes genes such as VNN2, GINS4, CTNNBL1, and SULF2. Isoforms of a transcriptional corepressor, transducin-like enhancer of Split (TLE), were also found to have CREB and C/EBP β binding their promoter and were up regulated by ET. Finally, we explore a possible layer of C/EBP β regulation by a protein complex consisting of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) and PKA. Collectively, these data provide new insights into the role of CREB and C/EBP β as immunosignaling regulators and targets of an important bacterial virulence factor.
Low-level light therapy reduces platelet destruction during extracorporeal circulation
Authors: Drohomirecka Anna , Iwaszko Alicja , Walski Tomasz , Pliszczak-Król Aleksandra , Wąż Grzegorz , Graczyk Stanisław , Gałecka Katarzyna , Czerski Albert , Bujok Jolanta , Komorowska Małgorzata
Published: November 2018

Extracorporeal circulation causes many deleterious effects on blood cells. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) in the red/near-infrared spectral range is known for its cytoprotective properties but its use during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) has not yet been studied. We aimed to assess whether LLLT protects platelets during CPB. 24 pigs were connected to 1-hour-CPB and observed for the next 23 hours. In 12 animals, blood circulating through the oxygenator was treated with LLLT. Platelet count and function were monitored throughout the experiment. The decrease in platelet count was greater in the control group, especially during CPB and after 24 hours. In LLLT group CD62P expression remained quite stable up to the 12th hour of the experiment, whereas in the control group it continuously decreased till the end of observation. Platelets in the control group were more prone to aggregation in the postoperative period than at the beginning of the experiment, whereas platelets in the LLLT group aggregated similarly or less intense. Limitation of platelet loss, pattern of aggregation and CD62P expression suggest that LLLT may stabilize platelet function during CPB and diminish the negative effects associated with the interaction of cells with an artificial surface.
Mechanistic Interaction Study of Bromo-Noscapine with Bovine Serum Albumin employing Spectroscopic and Chemoinformatics Approaches
Authors: Sood Damini , Kumar Neeraj , Rathee Garima , Singh Anju , Tomar Vartika , Chandra Ramesh
Published: November 2018

Bromo-Noscapine (BrNs) is a tubulin-binding cytotoxic agent with significant activity against breast and lung cancer. The mechanistic interaction insight into the binding of bovine serum albumin (BSA) with BrNs can provide critical information about the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics properties. Here, various spectroscopic techniques and computational methods were employed to understand the dynamics of BrNs and BSA interaction. The intrinsic fluorescence of BSA was quenched by BrNs through a static quenching procedure. The stoichiometry of BrNs-BSA complex was 1:1 and binding constant of the complex was in the order of 103 M−1at 298 K. Based on thermodynamic analysis, it was deduced that binding process of the BrNs with BSA was spontaneous and exothermic, and the major forces between BrNs and BSA were van der waals forces and hydrogen bonding. Moreover, results of FT-IR, CD, UV spectra concluded significant conformational change in BSA on binding with BrNs. Thein vitrofindings were further confirmed byin silicoassays. Molecular docking showed strong interactions with score of −8.08 kcal/mol. Molecular dynamics simulation analysis also suggested the stable binding with lower deviation in RMSD and RMSF values through persistent long simulation run. This study suggests optimal efficiency of diffusion of the BrNs into the bloodstream for the treatment of cancer.
Instantaneous ionization rate as a functional derivative
Authors: Ivanov I. A. , Hofmann C. , Ortmann L. , Landsman A. S. , Nam Chang Hee , Kim Kyung Taec
Published: November 2018

The notion of the instantaneous ionization rate (IIR) is often employed in the literature for understanding the process of strong field ionization of atoms and molecules. This notion is based on the idea of the ionization event occurring at a given moment of time, which is difficult to reconcile with the conventional quantum mechanics. We describe an approach defining instantaneous ionization rate as a functional derivative of the total ionization probability. The definition is based on physical quantities, such as the total ionization probability and the waveform of an ionizing pulse, which are directly measurable. The definition is, therefore, unambiguous and does not suffer from gauge non-invariance. We compute IIR by numerically solving the time-dependent Schrödinger equation for the hydrogen atom in a strong laser field. In agreement with some previous results using attoclock methodology, the IIR we define does not show measurable delay in strong field tunnel ionization.
Repurposing antitubercular agent isoniazid for treatment of prostate cancer
Authors: Lv Qingzhi , Wang Dun , Yang Zimeng , Yang Jincheng , Zhang Ruoshi , Yang Xiaoguang , Wang Menglin , Wang Yongjun
Published: November 2018

Development of isoniazid–dye conjugates as versatile antitumor agents for mitochondria-targeting, NIR imaging and potent antitumor efficacy.
MIL-100Cr with open Cr sites for a record N2O capture
Authors: Yang Jiangfeng , Du Bingjie , Liu Jiaqi , Krishna Rajamani , Zhang Feifei , Zhou Wei , Wang Yong , Li Jinping , Chen Banglin
Published: November 2018

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is considered as the third most important greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide and methane and needs to be removed from air.
Nonadiabatic fragmentation of H2O+ and isotopomers. Wave packet propagation using ab initio wavefunctions
Authors: Suárez Jaime , Méndez L. , Rabadán I.
Published: November 2018

The nonadiabatic fragmentation of excited water cations (and isotopomers) is studied by propagating wave packets on ab initio potential energy surfaces.
Native chemical ligation in protein synthesis and semi-synthesis
Authors: Conibear Anne C. , Watson Emma E. , Payne Richard J. , Becker Christian F. W.
Published: November 2018

Combining modern synthetic and molecular biology toolkits, native chemical ligation and expressed protein ligation enables robust access to modified proteins.
Lactobacillus helveticus KLDS1.8701 alleviates d-galactose-induced aging by regulating Nrf-2 and gut microbiota in mice
Authors: Li Bailiang , Evivie Smith Etareri , Lu Jingjing , Jiao Yuehua , Wang Chengfeng , Li Ziye , Liu Fei , Huo Guicheng
Published: November 2018

We first revealed a close association between probiotic-manipulated gut microbiota and hepatic Nrf-2 dependent mechanisms to suppress d-galactose-induced aging.
A novel near-infrared fluorescent probe with a “donor–π–acceptor” type structure and its application in the selective detection of cysteine in living cells
Authors: Hong Haojia , Shi Lei , Huang Junzhe , Peng Chang , Yang Sheng , Shao Guang , Gong Shengzhao
Published: November 2018

A novel “donor–π–acceptor” type fluorescent probe has been prepared for the detection of Cys. This probe shows great fluorescent performance and obvious response to Cys, and has been successfully applied in visualizing Cys in living cells.
Binding aspects of dietary flavone, luteolin, with polymorphic forms of natural DNA: a spectroscopic and molecular docking approach
Authors: Bhuiya Sutanwi , Haque Lucy , Dutta Taniya , Chowdhury Susmita , Das Suman
Published: November 2018

Physicochemical studies on the interactions of small molecules with different polymorphs of DNA are relevant for elucidation at the molecular level of the processes occurringin vivo.
Colorimetric and optical Hg(ii) ion sensor developed with conjugates of M13-bacteriophage and silver nanoparticles
Authors: Manivannan Shanmugam , Seo Yeji , Kang Dong-Ku , Kim Kyuwon
Published: November 2018

Hg(ii) produces an AgHg amalgam on a conjugate of Ag nanoparticles and M13-bacteriophage, which effectively quenches the optical absorption of the Ag nanoparticles.
Introducing catalytic gasification into chemical activation for the conversion of natural coal into hierarchically porous carbons with broadened pore size for enhanced supercapacitive utilization
Authors: Pei Tong , Sun Fei , Gao Jihui , Wang Lijie , Pi Xinxin , Qie Zhipeng , Zhao Guangbo
Published: November 2018

A catalytic gasification mechanism is introduced to prepare natural coal derived hierarchically porous carbon exhibiting excellent supercapacitive performances.
Recent developments in polymeric electrospun nanofibrous membranes for seawater desalination
Authors: Selatile Mantsopa Koena , Ray Suprakas Sinha , Ojijo Vincent , Sadiku Rotimi
Published: November 2018

Seawater desalination is a promising strategy that offers an abundant and reliable source of clean fresh water.
Single-particle tracking discloses binding-mediated rocking diffusion of rod-shaped biological particles on lipid membranes
Authors: Ye Zhongju , Liu Hua , Wang Fuyan , Wang Xin , Wei Lin , Xiao Lehui
Published: November 2018

Interestingly, on the lipid membrane, E.coli displays anomalous rocking diffusion, which might facilitate the subsequent survey of stronger association sites on the two-dimensional (2D) surface.
Reduction of organic azides by indyl-anions. Isolation and reactivity studies of indium–nitrogen multiple bonds
Authors: Anker Mathew D. , Lein Matthias , Coles Martyn P.
Published: November 2018

Stepwise reaction of an indyl-anion with organic azides initially forms the indium imide, which undergoes (2 + 3)-cycloaddition to generate the indium tetrazenide.
Rationally designed pure-inorganic upconversion nanoprobes for ultra-highly selective hydrogen sulfide imaging and elimination in vivo
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Jia Qi , Zhai Xuejiao , Mao Fang , Jiang Anqi , Zhou Jing
Published: November 2018

Prussian blue-modified upconversion nanoprobes are applicable for highly selective H2S imaging and elimination in vivo.
The effect of electrode design parameters on battery performance and optimization of electrode thickness based on the electrochemical–thermal coupling model
Authors: Mei Wenxin , Chen Haodong , Sun Jinhua , Wang Qingsong
Published: November 2018

Schematic of the lithium-ion battery and description of the P2D electrochemical model.
The Alzheimer's disease amyloid-β peptide affects the size-dynamics of raft-mimicking Lo domains in GM1-containing lipid bilayers
Authors: Staneva Galya , Puff Nicolas , Stanimirov Stanislav , Tochev Todor , Angelova Miglena I. , Seigneuret Michel
Published: November 2018

The Alzheimer amyloid β-peptide binds to the liquid-disordered lipid phase and modulates the nanodomain–microdomain size dynamics of raft-mimicking Lo domains in model membranes containing the ganglioside GM1.
Evaporation and morphological patterns of bi-dispersed colloidal droplets on hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Iqbal R. , Majhy B. , Shen Amy Q. , Sen A. K.
Published: November 2018

To our knowledge, for the first time, we explain the morphological patterns of bi-dispersed droplets on hydrophobic and hydrophilic surfaces.
Probing the dynamic self-assembly behaviour of photoswitchable wormlike micelles in real-time
Authors: Kelly Elaine A. , Houston Judith E. , Evans Rachel C.
Published: November 2018

UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy is combined with small-angle neutron scattering to monitor the dynamic self-assembly of an azobenzene photosurfactant from worm-like micelles to fractals during photoisomerization.
Interpreting the interfacial and colloidal stability of bulk nanobubbles
Authors: Nirmalkar N. , Pacek A. W. , Barigou M.
Published: November 2018

This paper elucidates parts of the mystery behind the interfacial and colloidal stability of the novel bubble system of bulk nanobubbles.
Chainmail catalyst of ultrathin P-doped carbon shell-encapsulated nickel phosphides on graphene towards robust and efficient hydrogen generation
Authors: Miao Mao , Hou Ruizuo , Liang Zhun , Qi Ruijuan , He Ting , Yan Ya , Qi Kai , Liu Hongfang , Feng Guang , Xia Bao Yu
Published: November 2018

A chainmail catalyst of Ni2P core encapsulated by ultrathin P-doped carbon shell anchored on graphene network demonstrates efficient and robust activity towards hydrogen evolution.
Introduction to the Research Symposium Forum
Authors: Tager-Flusberg Helen
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this introduction is to provide an overview of the articles contained within this research forum of
JSLHR
. Each of these articles is based upon presentations from the 2017 ASHA Research Symposium.
Binarity among CEMP-no stars: an indication of multiple formation pathways?
Authors: Arentsen A. , Starkenburg E. , Shetrone M. D. , Venn K. A. , Depagne É. , McConnachie A. W.
Published: November 2018

Carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP) stars comprise a high percentage of stars at the lowest metallicities. The stars in the CEMP-no subcategory do not show any s-process enhancement and therefore cannot easily be explained by transfer of carbon and s-process elements from a binary AGB companion. We have performed radial velocity monitoring of a sample of 22 CEMP-no stars to further study the role that binarity plays in this type of CEMP star. We find four new binary CEMP-no stars based on their radial velocity variations; this significantly enlarges the population of known binaries to a total of 11. One of the new stars found to be in a binary system is HE 0107–5240, which is one of the most iron-poor stars known. This supports the binary transfer model for the origin of the abundance pattern of this star. We find a difference in binary fraction in our sample that depends on the absolute carbon abundance, with a binary fraction of 47 +15−14% for stars with a higher absolute carbon abundance and 18 +14−9% for stars with a lower absolute carbon abundance. This might imply a relation between a high carbon abundance and the binarity of a metal-poor star. Although binarity does not equate to mass transfer, there is a possibility that a CEMP-no star in a binary system has been polluted, and care has to be taken in the interpretation of their abundance patterns. We furthermore demonstrate the potential of Gaia of discovering additional binary candidates.
Spatially resolving the atmosphere of the non-Mira-type AGB star SW Vir in near-infrared molecular and atomic lines with VLTI/AMBER
Authors: Ohnaka K. , Hadjara M. , Maluenda Berna M. Y. L.
Published: November 2018

Aims. We present a near-infrared spectro-interferometric observation of the non-Mira-type, semiregular asymptotic giant branch star SW Vir. Our aim is to probe the physical properties of the outer atmosphere with spatially resolved data in individual molecular and atomic lines.

Methods. We observed SW Vir in the spectral window between 2.28 and 2.31 μm with the near-infrared interferometric instrument AMBER at ESO’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI).

Results. Thanks to AMBER’s high spatial resolution and high spectral resolution of 12 000, the atmosphere of SW Vir has been spatially resolved not only in strong CO first overtone lines but also in weak molecular and atomic lines of H2O, CN, HF, Ti, Fe, Mg, and Ca. While the uniform-disk diameter of the star is 16.23 ± 0.20 mas in the continuum, it increases up to 22–24 mas in the CO lines. Comparison with the MARCS photospheric models reveals that the star appears larger than predicted by the hydrostatic models not only in the CO lines but also even in the weak molecular and atomic lines. We found that this is primarily due to the H2O lines (but also possibly due to the HF and Ti lines) originating in the extended outer atmosphere. Although the H2O lines manifest themselves very little in the spatially unresolved spectrum, the individual rovibrational H2O lines from the outer atmosphere can be identified in the spectro-interferometric data. Our modeling suggests an H2O column density of 1019–1020 cm−2 in the outer atmosphere extending out to ~2 R⋆.

Conclusions. Our study has revealed that the effects of the nonphotospheric outer atmosphere are present in the spectro-interferometric data not only in the strong CO first overtone lines but also in the weak molecular and atomic lines. Therefore, analyses of spatially unresolved spectra, such as, for example, analyses of the chemical composition, should be carried out with care even if the lines appear to be weak.
Le petit réacteur à haut facteur de conversion
Authors: Janin Denis , Damian Frédéric
Published: November 2018

Les petits réacteurs modulaires (SMR) à eau pressurisée actuellement en développement sont plus gourmands en combustible que les réacteurs à eau pressurisée d’aujourd’hui. Plusieurs pistes existent pour limiter la consommation d’uranium naturel des SMR, et notamment le concept de petit réacteur à haut facteur de conversion (High Conversion Small Modular Reactor – HCSMR) étudié au CEA.
Replenishment of imperfect items in an EOQ inventory model with partial backordering
Authors: Taleizadeh Ata Allah , Khanbaglo Mahboobeh Perak Sari , Cárdenas-Barrón Leopoldo Eduardo
Published: November 2018

This paper deals with an inventory model in which a percent of the items in the lot is imperfect. The supplier is far from the buyer. After the reception of the order, immediately the products are inspected and imperfect items are identified. Due to the fact that supplier is located at long distance and the demand is needed to cover, the imperfect items are replenished by perfect ones from a local supplier at higher cost. In addition, the imperfect items are withdrawn and sold at a salvaged price as second-degree items. The shortage is allowed and partially backordered. The following three cases are considered: Case I. The reordered items are received when inventory level is zero; Case II. The reordered items are received when the backordered quantity is equal to the imperfect items quantity; and Case III. The reordered items are received when shortage is still remained. These cases are studied and analyzed in detail. In each case, the aim is to obtain the optimal value of the length period and the percent of period duration in which the inventory level is positive. A numerical example is presented to show the applicability of proposed inventory model. The results show that Case I has the lowest holding and shortage cost, so the total benefit is higher than the other two cases.
Ist ambulante Suchthilfe auch dann wirksam und kosteneffektiv, wenn Klienten „Kontrolliertes Trinken“ oder andere Zielsetzungen präferieren?
Authors: Sieber Martin
Published: November 2018

Ziel Die Studie befasst sich mit dem Rückgang des Alkoholkonsums und den Folgekosten nach Abschluss der ambulanten Behandlung bei Menschen mit einem Alkoholproblem, die unterschiedliche Konsumziele verfolgen: a) Abstinenz (A), b) Kontrolliertes Trinken (KT), c) andere Ziele (AZ).

Methodik 450 Klienten ambulanter Beratungsstellen wurden bei Behandlungsende sowie ein Teil davon im Follow-up befragt und entsprechend ihrem Konsumziel in 3 Gruppen aufgeteilt. Der „Problematische Alkoholkonsum“ sowie die Kosten für ambulante/stationäre Behandlungen und Arbeitsabsentismus wurden für die 12 Monate vor respektive 6 und 12 Monate nach Behandlungsende ermittelt. Die Analyse umfasst 116 Personen mit vollständigem Datensatz.

Ergebnisse Der Rückgang der Alkoholproblematik war bei allen 3 Gruppen signifikant (p<0,001) und bei 72,4% entstanden lediglich geringe Folgekosten (bis CHF 1000 pro Jahr). Entgegen den Erwartungen bestand bei den stationären Behandlungen kein signifikanter Rückgang und bei den Absentismustagen ein signifikanter Anstieg (p<0,01). Die Folgekosten sanken bei Gruppe A signifikant (p<0,01), bei Gruppe KT nahmen sie zu. Personen mit dem Ziel „Abstinenz“ hatten bessere Verlaufsindikatoren bezüglich Alkoholkonsum und Folgekosten als Personen mit dem Ziel „Kontrolliertes Trinken“.

Schlussfolgerungen Bei Personen mit anderen Zielsetzungen als der Abstinenz ist eine Modifikation der Behandlung zu überdenken. Da bei den Folgekosten infolge stationärer Behandlungen kein substantieller Rückgang bestand, sollte in neuen Studien ermittelt werden, wie sich die Kosten bei einer längeren Follow-up-Zeit entwickeln.
Endoskopische Submukosa-Dissektion bei mukosalen Low-Risk-Magenfrühkarzinomen – eine retrospektive, unizentrische Studie
Authors: Scheerer Frank , Schmitt Wolfgang , Dollhopf Markus , Kremer Marcus
Published: November 2018

Hintergrund Die endoskopische Submukosa-Dissektion (ESD) ist in Asien Standard zur Behandlung von Magenfrühkarzinomen (MFK) im Rahmen von definierten Kriterien. Auch in Europa wird sie immer häufiger benutzt. Bei Risikokonstellationen (z. B. Submukosa-Invasion, Lymphangio-Invasion, schlecht differenziertes Karzinom) ist das Auftreten von Lymphknotenmetastasen möglich. Wir definierten eine „Low-Risk-Gruppe“ (differenzierte, nur mukosal gelegene MFK ohne Ulzeration und Gefäßinfiltration, größenunabhängig) um das endoskopische Ergebnis und den Langzeitverlauf dieser prognostisch günstigen Gruppe zu untersuchen.

Patienten und Methoden Patienten mit nicht vorbehandelten Low-Risk-MFK wurden in die retrospektive Auswertung aufgenommen. Ausgewertet wurden Patientendaten (Alter, Geschlechterverteilung), Karzinomparameter (Anzahl, Größen, Lokalisation, Paris-Klassifikation), histologische Parameter, Resektionsdaten (u. a. En-bloc-Resektion, R-Status), Nachsorgen (u. a. Lokalrezidive, Überleben) und Komplikationsdaten.

Ergebnisse Durch ESD wurden bei 55 Patienten 61 Low-Risk-MFK entfernt. In 93,4 % gelang die En-bloc-, in 91,8 % die R0-Resektion. In 8 Fällen (13,1 %) kam es zu interventionsabhängigen Komplikationen: 5 verzögerte Nachblutungen (8,2 %), 2 Mikroperforationen (3,3 %, keine Operation notwendig) und ein Nicht-ST-Hebungsinfarkt (1,6 %).Während der Nachbeobachtungszeit (Mittelwert: 54,3 Monate) kam es in 4 Fällen (6,6 %) zu Lokalrezidiven, von welchen zumindest zwei erfolgreich endoskopisch behandelt werden konnten. Die anderen beiden Patienten verstarben nach endoskopischer Re-Therapie vor der ersten Kontrolle. Insgesamt verstarben 4 Patienten (7,8 %) während des Follow-ups, jeweils nicht tumorassoziiert. Bei 9 Patienten (16,4 %) wurden syn- oder metachrone Läsionen nachgewiesen, welche alle endoskopisch behandelt werden konnten. Lymphknotenmetastasen traten nicht auf.

Fazit In der von uns definierten Low-Risk-Gruppe von mukosalen MFK wurde mittels ESD eine hohe Rate von En-bloc- und R0-Resektionen erreicht. Die festgestellten Lokalrezidive konnten endoskopisch beherrscht werden. Metastasen wurden nicht festgestellt, kein Patient verstarb tumorassoziiert. ESD ist für diese Gruppe daher als Standard-Therapie zu empfehlen. Hinsichtlich des klinisch-endoskopischen Verlaufs bei Vorhandensein von Risikofaktoren sowohl bei Mukosakarzinomen als auch der übrigen MFK aus der sogenannten Expanded-Group (u. a. Lymphangio-Invasion, submukosainvasive MFK, schlecht differenzierte G3-Karzinome) liefert die Studie keine Daten.
Aktuelle Konzepte zur Diagnostik und Therapie der Clostridioides [Clostridium]-difficile-Infektion bei Patienten mit chronisch-entzündlichen Darmerkrankungen
Authors: Stallmach Andreas , Reuken Philipp , Teich Niels
Published: November 2018

Patienten mit chronisch-entzündlichen Darmerkrankungen (CED) haben ein deutlich erhöhtes Risiko für Clostridioides [Clostridium] difficile Infektionen (CDI). Eine CDI kann ihrerseits die Aktivität der luminalen Entzündung erhöhen. Daher ist eine rasche Diagnostik und Therapie erforderlich. Viele Diagnose- und Behandlungsstudien zu Patienten mit CDI ohne entzündliche Darmerkrankung lassen sich nicht deckungsgleich auf CED-Patienten übertragen. Diese Übersicht fasst deshalb die alltagsrelevanten Daten der letzten Jahre zusammen und kondensiert diese in vier Leitsätzen. 1) Eine CDI verschlechtert nicht nur kurzfristig die Krankheitsaktivität, sondern bedingt langfristig eine erhöhte Morbidität (z. B. Kolektomiegefahr) und Mortalität. 2) Bei Verdacht auf eine CDI sollte rasch ein Glutamat-Dehydrogenase (GDH)-Nachweis geführt werden. Ist dieser positiv und ist die Krankheitsaktivität hoch, ist eine Therapie gegen C. diff. einzuleiten und diese ggf. bei negativen Bestätigungstests zu beenden. 3) CED-Patienten mit einer nachgewiesenen CDI sollten primär mit Vancomycin behandelt werden. 4) Bei einer rezidivierenden CDI bei Patienten mit CED ist der fäkale Mikrobiomtransfer eine effektive Therapiemaßnahme. Allerdings muss in ca. 15 % der Fälle mit einer Aktivierung der CED gerechnet werden. Ein konsequentes Beachten dieser Leitsätze kann im Umgang mit einer CDI bei CED-Patienten helfen.
Scalable Synthesis of Naphthothiophene-based D-π-D Extended Oligomers through Cascade Direct Arylation Processes
Authors: Pasini Dario , Nitti Andrea , Osw Peshawa , Abdullah Media , Galbiati Alessandro
Published: November 2018

The synthesis of two novel π-extended oligomers, incorporating naphtho[1,2-b]thiophene-4-carboxylate 2-octyldodecyl esters as end-capping moieties, and two different conjugated core fragments, has been achieved through a cascade sequence of sustainable organic reactions. Benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole and 2-octyldodecyl benzo[1,2-b:6,5-b′]dithiophene-4-carboxylate have been used, respectively, as electron-poor and electro-rich π-conjugated cores. In the latter case, a sequence of nine aromatic rings in a fully conjugated structure is achieved with a high yielding, sustainable cascade approach. The optoelectronic properties of both oligomers are reported.
Psychological Adjustment of Carers of Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Thomson Francesca , Bergman Philip , Hay Margaret
Published: November 2018

Context As type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is predominantly diagnosed during childhood, the responsibilities of T1DM management often fall to carers. Caring for a child with a chronic illness brings with it additional responsibilities and burdens.

Aims This study employed Thompson's Transactional Stress and Coping model (TTSCM) to explore psychological adjustment of carers of children with T1DM.

Design/Methods This cross-sectional correlational study included a sample of 93 carers of children with T1DM. Via an online questionnaire, carers were administered measures of cognitive processes (illness and general stress appraisal and self-efficacy), methods of coping, and family functioning. Illness information from clinical records was also collected.

Results Three distinct coping styles emerged. These were labeled proactive, avoidant, and reframing/reflecting coping. Canonical correlations revealed that the TTSCM accounted for 44% of the variance in carer adjustment, with both illness and general stress appraisal, and avoidant coping making the largest contributions.

Conclusions Findings supported the utility of TTSCM in this population, and that stress appraisal and copings strategies should be the focal points for psychological intervention when working toward positive psychological adjustment in this patient group.
Should the Presence or Extent of Coronary Artery Disease be Quantified in the CHA2DS2-VASc Score in Atrial Fibrillation? A Report from the Western Denmark Heart Registry
Authors: Steensig Kamilla , Olesen Kevin , Thim Troels , Nielsen Jens , Jensen Svend , Jensen Lisette , Kristensen Steen , Bøtker Hans , Lip Gregory , Maeng Michael
Published: November 2018

Background Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) have an increased risk of ischaemic stroke. The risk can be predicted by the CHA2DS2-VASc score, in which the vascular component refers to previous myocardial infarction, peripheral artery disease and aortic plaque, whereas coronary artery disease (CAD) is not included.

Objectives This article explores whether CAD per se or extent provides independent prognostic information of future stroke among patients with AF.

Materials and Methods Consecutive patients with AF and coronary angiography performed between 2004 and 2012 were included. The endpoint was a composite of ischaemic stroke, transient ischaemic attack and systemic embolism. The risk of ischaemic events was estimated according to the presence and extent of CAD. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) were calculated in reference to patients without CAD and adjusted for parameters included in the CHA2DS2-VASc score and treatment with anti-platelet agents and/or oral anticoagulants.

Results Of 96,430 patients undergoing coronary angiography, 12,690 had AF. Among patients with AF, 7,533 (59.4%) had CAD. Mean follow-up was 3 years. While presence of CAD was an independent risk factor for the composite endpoint (adjusted IRR, 1.25; 1.06–1.47), extent of CAD defined as 1-, 2-, 3- or diffuse vessel disease did not add additional independent risk information.

Conclusion Presence, but not extent, of CAD was an independent risk factor of the composite thromboembolic endpoint beyond the components already included in the CHA2DS2-VASc score. Consequently, we suggest that significant angiographically proven CAD should be included in the vascular disease criterion in the CHA2DS2-VASc score.
Nephrology Referral in Diabetes Practice
Authors: Kalra Sanjay , Sahay Manisha , Sahay Rakesh
Published: November 2018

Diabetic nephropathy, including diabetic kidney disease (DKD), is a major complication of diabetes. Appropriate management of DKD requires multispecialty intervention under the guidance of endocrinology and nephrology. However, delayed referral to specialized nephrology services usually occurs, and this leads to suboptimal outcomes. This multispecialty consensus suggests simple clinical and biochemical parameters that should prompt referral of DKD patients to nephrology. A checklist for physicians who manage DKD is also provided.
Noncompliance to Diet and Medication among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Selected Hospitals of Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Kafle Nisha , Poudel Resham , Shrestha Sushan
Published: November 2018

Background Diabetes is a major public health problem affecting people of all ages globally. Noncompliance compromises the effectiveness of treatment and adversely affects patients' health. The main purpose of this study was to assess and compare the proportion of noncompliance to diet and medication between patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) visiting public and private hospitals in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Methods Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in T2DM patients visiting public and private hospitals. Eight item Morisky Medication Adherence Questionnaire (MMAQ) for medication adherence and Perceived Dietary Adherence Questionnaire (PDAQ) for dietary adherence were used. Epidata was used for data entry and SPSS for data analysis. Chi-square test was used as a test of significance. Odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

Results The study involved 182 T2DM patients. Participants' age was ≥ 17 years and they were under treatment for ≥ 6 months. Mean age of the participants was 54.67 years with standard deviation (SD) ± 11.69. Prevalence of medication noncompliance was seen in 126 (69.2%) patients, whereas prevalence of dietary noncompliance was seen in 166 (91.2%) patients. Illiterate participants were more likely to be noncompliant than literate to medication (OR 4.32, p = 0.001). Self-employed were more likely to be noncompliant to medication than job holders (OR 2.93, p = 0.008). People visiting public hospital were more likely to be noncompliant to diet than those visiting private hospital (OR 4.89, p = 0.009). Illiterate participants were more likely to be noncompliant to diet than literate (OR 10.94, p = 0.005).

Conclusion The T2DM patients visiting public hospitals were more noncompliant to diet. Illiterate patients were more noncompliant to both medication and diet. Self-employed compared with job holders were more noncompliant to medication. Patient education and counseling should be aggressively addressed mainly in public hospitals. There was no significant difference in medication noncompliance between public and private hospitals (p = 0.108).
Der Zeitpunkt der Kyphoplastie beeinflusst das Ergebnis: eine prospektive Analyse
Authors: Trieb Klemens , Nittinger Michael
Published: November 2018

Ziel der prospektiven Untersuchung war es, bei der Behandlung von Wirbelkörperfrakturen mittels Ballonkyphoplastie die Schmerzreduktion im Hinblick auf das Frakturalter zu evaluieren. Insgesamt konnten in dieser Studie 106 Patienten (37 männlich und 69 weiblich) mit 128 Wirbelkörperfrakturen mit einem mittleren Alter von 67,5 Jahren (21 bis 92 Jahre) bei einem Bodymaßindex von 26,4 (16–40,4) erfasst werden. Alle Frakturen wurden radiologisch und klinisch ausgewertet. Es wurden die Schmerzintensität (visuelle Analogskala 0–10), der Analgetikaverbrauch (WHO-Stufenschema 1 bis 3), der Oswestryscore und operationsrelevante Daten erhoben (Operationsdauer, Zementverbrauch, Komplikationen). Es wurden 37 A 1.1-, 43 A 1.2-, 43 A 1.3-, 4 A 3.1- und 1 A 2.3-Klassifikationen erhoben. Das Frakturalter in Tagen betrug bei 75 Patienten weniger als 23 Tage, die mittlere Operationszeit betrug 43 Minuten. Der Analgetikaverbrauch konnte von präoperativ 1,8 ± 0,8 auf 1,0 ± 0,6 reduziert werden. Eine signifikante Verbesserung zeigte sich in der Schmerzintensität; diese sank signifikant von 8,2 ± 0,9 präoperativ auf 3,9 ± 0,8 postoperativ. Bezogen auf das Frakturalter und die Schmerzintensität konnte eine deutlich höhere Schmerzreduktion bei den frischen Frakturen zwischen 0 und 23 Tagen erzielt werden. Hier sank die Schmerzintensität auf 2,5 ± 0,5 postoperativ, bei den später versorgten Frakturen lag dieser Wert bei 4,5 ± 0,4. Zusammenfassend kann festgestellt werden, dass die Ballonkyphoplastie eine suffiziente Methode ist Wirbelkörperfrakturen aufzurichten, den Kyphosewinkel zu verbessern und eine Schmerzreduktion zu erreichen.
Twisted equivariant K-theory of compact Lie group actions with maximal rank isotropy
Authors: Adem Alejandro , Cantarero José , Gómez José Manuel
Published: November 2018

We consider twisted equivariant K-theory for actions of a compact Lie group G on a space X where all the isotropy subgroups are connected and of maximal rank. We show that the associated rational spectral sequence à la Segal has a simple E2-term expressible as invariants under the Weyl group of G. Specifically, if T is a maximal torus of G, they are invariants of the π1(XT)-equivariant Bredon cohomology of the universal cover of XT with suitable coefficients. In the case of the inertia stack ΛY, this term can be expressed using the cohomology of YT and algebraic invariants associated with the Lie group and the twisting. A number of calculations are provided. In particular, we recover the rational Verlinde algebra when Y = {*}.
Adlayer structure and lattice size effects on catalytic rates predicted from KMC simulations: NO oxidation on Pt(111)
Authors: Papanikolaou Konstantinos G. , Darby Matthew T. , Stamatakis Michail
Published: November 2018

Repulsive and/or attractive interactions between surface adsorbates have an important effect on the structure of the adsorbate layer and consequently on the rate of heterogeneous catalytic reactions. Thus, developing reaction models that take into account adsorbate-adsorbate interactions is crucial for making accurate predictions of the catalytic rate and surface coverage during reaction. In the present work, we employ kinetic Monte Carlo simulation to model the catalytic NO oxidation on Pt (111), adopting a cluster expansion (CE) Hamiltonian approach for treating the aforementioned interactions. We investigate CEs of increasing complexity, ranging from pairwise 1st nearest neighbor to long-range and many-body terms. We show that energetic models incorporating solely short-range interactions result in ordered adlayer structures, which are disrupted by anti-phase boundaries and defective regions when the size of the periodic lattice is non-commensurate to the structure of the stable adlayer. We find that O2 dissociates on sites located in these defective regions, which are predominantly responsible for the activity, and the predicted catalytic rate is strongly depended on the lattice size. Such effects are absent when employing non-periodic lattices, whereon the catalytic activity appears more intense on edges/corner sites. Finally, inclusion of long-range interactions in the model Hamiltonian induces relative disorder in the adsorbate layer, which is ascribed to the “softening” of the repulsive interactions between adspecies. Under these circumstances, the distribution of activation energies for O2 dissociation is broader as compared to short-range interaction models and on this basis we explain the disparate catalytic rate predictions when using different CEs.
Uphill acceleration in a spatially modulated electrostatic field particle accelerator
Authors: Almansa I. , Burton D. A. , Cairns R. A. , Marini S. , Peter E. , Rizzato F. B. , Russman F.
Published: November 2018

Spatially modulated electrostatic fields can be designed to efficiently accelerate particles by exploring the relationships between the amplitude, the phase velocity, the shape of the potential, and the initial velocity of the particle. The acceleration process occurs when the value of the velocity excursions of the particle surpasses the phase velocity of the carrier, as a resonant mechanism. The ponderomotive approximation based on the Lagrangian average is usually applied in this kind of system in non-accelerating regimes. The mean dynamics of the particle is well described by this approximation far from resonance. However, the approximation fails to predict some interesting features of the model near resonance, such as the uphill acceleration phenomenon. A canonical perturbation theory is more accurate in these conditions. In this work, we compare the results from the Lagrangian average and from a canonical perturbation theory, focusing in regions where the results of these two approaches differ from each other.
Direct numerical simulation of particle dispersion in a three-dimensional spatially developing compressible mixing layer
Authors: Dai Qi , Jin Tai , Luo Kun , Fan Jianren
Published: November 2018

By direct numerical simulations, the particle dispersion is systematically investigated in a three-dimensional spatially developing compressible mixing layer. The convective Mach number is 1.2 and particles interact with fluid through both the one- and two-way coupling. Six simulations are conducted with different particle diameters (Stokes numbers) or particle back-reaction. The compressible mixing layer is characterized by various vortical structures and unsteady shocklets, which both have significant effects on the dispersion of particles. The particles tend to accumulate in the peripheries of the vortical structures with high density, low vorticity, and high strain rate inside the mixing layer, as well as the high-density regions behind the shocklets outside the mixing layer. Due to the sweep and ejection effects, the particles from the high-speed side cluster in the high-speed streaks while those from the low-speed side collect in the low-speed steaks. Also, the particle mixing between the two streams skews towards the low-speed side. Compared with the other cases, medium particles show the strongest preferential concentration in the peripheries of vortices while small particles exhibit the most significant tendency to accumulate behind the shocklets. As the Stokes number decreases, the particle mixing is enhanced with more significant deviation towards the low-speed side. Besides, the particle back-reaction on fluid attenuates the preferential concentration. Outside the mixing layer, the number of the compression regions of the particle dispersion decreases, but the particles have stronger concentration behind the residual shocklets. The particle mixing as well as the skewness towards the low-speed side is also attenuated under the two-way coupling, which is attributed to the reduction of the vortex number and the centrifugal effects on particles.
Quantum system partitioning at the single-particle level
Authors: Mühlbach Adrian H. , Reiher Markus
Published: November 2018

We discuss the partitioning of a quantum system through subsystem separation by unitary block-diagonalization (SSUB) applied to a Fock operator. For a one-particle Hilbert space, this separation can be formulated in a very general way. Therefore, it can be applied to very different partitionings ranging from those driven by features in the molecular structure (such as a solute surrounded by solvent molecules or an active site in an enzyme) to those that aim at an orbital separation (such as core-valence separation). Our framework embraces recent developments of Manby and Miller as well as the older ones of Huzinaga and Cantu. Projector-based embedding is simplified and accelerated by SSUB. Moreover, it directly relates to decoupling approaches for relativistic four-component many-electron theory. For a Fock operator based on the Dirac one-electron Hamiltonian, one would like to separate the so-called positronic (negative-energy) states from the electronic bound and continuum states. The exact two-component (X2C) approach developed for this purpose becomes a special case of the general SSUB framework and may therefore be viewed as a system-environment decoupling approach. Moreover, for SSUB, there exists no restriction with respect to the number of subsystems that are generated—in the limit, decoupling of all single-particle states is recovered, which represents exact diagonalization of the problem. The fact that a Fock operator depends on its eigenvectors poses challenges to all system-environment decoupling approaches and is discussed in terms of the SSUB framework. Apart from improved conceptual understanding, these relations bring about technical advances as developments in different fields can immediately cross-fertilize one another. As an important example, we discuss the atomic decomposition of the unitary block-diagonalization matrix in X2C-type approaches that can inspire approaches for the efficient partitioning of large total systems based on SSUB.
New functions for old factors: the role of polyamines during the establishment of pregnancy
Authors: Fenelon Jane C. , Murphy Bruce D.
Published: November 2018

Implantation is essential for the establishment of a successful pregnancy, and the preimplantation period plays a significant role in ensuring implantation occurs in a timely and coordinated manner. This requires effective maternal–embryonic signalling, established during the preimplantation period, to synchronise development. Although multiple factors have been identified as present during this time, the exact molecular mechanisms involved are unknown. Polyamines are small cationic molecules that are ubiquitously expressed from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. Despite being first identified over 300 years ago, their essential roles in cell proliferation and growth, including cancer, have only been recently recognised, with new technologies and interest resulting in rapid expansion of the polyamine field. This review provides a summary of our current understanding of polyamine synthesis, regulation and function with a focus on recent developments demonstrating the requirements for polyamines during the establishment of pregnancy up to the implantation stage, in particular the role of polyamines in the control of embryonic diapause and the identification of an alternative pathway for their synthesis in sheep pregnancy. This, along with other novel discoveries, provides new insights into the control of the peri-implantation period in mammals and highlights the complexities that exist in regulating this critical period of pregnancy.
Structure-based design of a quadrivalent fusion glycoprotein vaccine for human parainfluenza virus types 1–4
Authors: Stewart-Jones Guillaume B. E. , Chuang Gwo-Yu , Xu Kai , Zhou Tongqing , Acharya Priyamvada , Tsybovsky Yaroslav , Ou Li , Zhang Baoshan , Fernandez-Rodriguez Blanca , Gilardi Valentina , Silacci-Fregni Chiara , Beltramello Martina , Baxa Ulrich , Druz Aliaksandr , Kong Wing-Pui , Thomas Paul V. , Yang Yongping , Foulds Kathryn E. , Todd John-Paul , Wei Hui , Salazar Andres M. , Scorpio Diana G. , Carragher Bridget , Potter Clinton S. , Corti Davide , Mascola John R. , Lanzavecchia Antonio , Kwong Peter D.
Published: November 2018

Parainfluenza virus types 1–4 (PIV1–4) are highly infectious human pathogens, of which PIV3 is most commonly responsible for severe respiratory illness in newborns, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. To obtain a vaccine effective against all four PIV types, we engineered mutations in each of the four PIV fusion (F) glycoproteins to stabilize their metastable prefusion states, as such stabilization had previously enabled the elicitation of high-titer neutralizing antibodies against the related respiratory syncytial virus. A cryoelectron microscopy structure of an engineered PIV3 F prefusion-stabilized trimer, bound to the prefusion-specific antibody PIA174, revealed atomic-level details for how introduced mutations improved stability as well as how a single PIA174 antibody recognized the trimeric apex of prefusion PIV3 F. Nine combinations of six newly identified disulfides and two cavity-filling mutations stabilized the prefusion PIV3 F immunogens and induced 200- to 500-fold higher neutralizing titers in mice than were elicited by PIV3 F in the postfusion conformation. For PIV1, PIV2, and PIV4, we also obtained stabilized prefusion Fs, for which prefusion versus postfusion titers were 2- to 20-fold higher. Elicited murine responses were PIV type-specific, with little cross-neutralization of other PIVs. In nonhuman primates (NHPs), quadrivalent immunization with prefusion-stabilized Fs from PIV1–4 consistently induced potent neutralizing responses against all four PIVs. For PIV3, the average elicited NHP titer from the quadrivalent immunization was more than fivefold higher than any titer observed in a cohort of over 100 human adults, highlighting the ability of a prefusion-stabilized immunogen to elicit especially potent neutralization.
Observing Eurolects
Authors: Sandrelli Annalisa
Published: November 2018

The English text of any EU act is the product of collaboration between native and non-native drafters and is influenced by contact with the other EU languages in the multilingual drafting process. This study investigates the main differences between the language used in a corpus of EU directives (corpus A) and the language employed in the related UK national transposition measures (corpus B), via a mixture of quantitative data obtained using specific concordancing software (WordSmith Tools) and qualitative observations. The significant differences found at various levels (lexical, morpho-syntactic and textual) confirm the existence of a specific variety of English used in EU legislation, that is, an English Eurolect.