bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical factors influencing the impact of cluster headache from a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Sohn Jong-Hee , Park Jeong-Wook , Lee Mi Ji , Chung Pil-Wook , Chu Min Kyung , Chung Jae Myun , Ahn Jin-Young , Kim Byung-Su , Kim Soo-Kyoung , Choi Yun-Ju , Kim Daeyoung , Song Tae-Jin , Oh Kyungmi , Moon Heui-Soo , Park Kwang-Yeol , Kim Byung-Kun , Bae Dae-Woong , Chung Chin-Sang , Cho Soo-Jin
Published: February 2020

Although many patients with cluster headaches (CH) are disabled by their condition, few studies have examined this in detail. This cross-sectional, multicenter observational study prospectively collected demographic and clinical questionnaire data from 224 consecutive patients with CH. We assessed headache impact using the six-item Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) and evaluated the factors associated with the impact of CH. Participants with a HIT-6 score ≥ 60 were classified into a severe impact group. The majority (190, 84.8%) of the participants were classified into the severe impact group. These patients were characterized by younger age, earlier onset of CH, longer duration of each headache attack, higher pain intensity, more cranial autonomic symptoms, a higher proportion of depression or anxiety, higher score of stress, and lower score of quality of life. The anxiety (OR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.08–1.31, p = 0.006), greater pain intensity (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02–1.10, p = 0.002), and age (OR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, p = 0.008) were significant predictors for a severe impact of CH patients. According to the HIT-6 results, most of the CH patients were significantly affected by CH. As well as pain intensity, anxiety and age modulated CH’s impact on their lives.
Evaluation of Mechanical compressive strength of cementitious matrix with 12% of IER formulated by modified polymer (NEPS) at different percentages
Authors: Bekhta Atiqa , Hsissou Rachid , Elharfi Ahmed
Published: February 2020

During this paper, we improved the compressive strength of cementitious matrix based on ion exchanging resin (IER) at 12% and formulated by the modified novolac epoxy polymer surfactant (NEPS) at various percentages (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5%). The results show that the introduction of 1% and 2% of NEPS in the cementitious matrix with 12% of IER increases the compressive strength compared to that of the basic matrix (from 7 to 90 days). However, the formulations 3, 4 and 5% show the compressive strength is less than that of the basic matrix (from 28 to 90 days).
Prevalence of Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity in Patients with Refractory Functional Dyspepsia: a Randomized Double-blind Placebo Controlled Trial
Authors: Shahbazkhani Bijan , Fanaeian Mohammad M. , Farahvash Mohammad J. , Aletaha Najmeh , Alborzi Foroogh , Elli Luca , Shahbazkhani Amirhossein , Zebardast Jayran , Rostami-Nejad Mohammad
Published: February 2020

Refractory functional dyspepsia (RFD) is characterized by symptoms persistence in spite of medical treatment or H. pylori eradication. No study has yet investigated the presence of gluten-dependent RFD as a clinical presentation of Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS). Patients with RFD, in whom celiac disease, wheat allergy and H. pylori infection had been ruled out, followed a six weeks long gluten-free diet (GFD). Symptoms were evaluated by means of visual analogue scales; patients with ≥30% improvement in at least one of the reported symptoms after GFD underwent a double-blind placebo controlled gluten challenge. Subjects were randomly divided in two groups and symptoms were evaluated after the gluten/placebo challenge. GFD responders were further followed on for 3 months to evaluate the relationship between symptoms and gluten consumption. Out of 77 patients with RFD, 50 (65%) did not respond to GFD; 27 (35%) cases showed gastrointestinal symptoms improvement while on GFD; after blind gluten ingestion, symptoms recurred in 5 cases (6.4% of patients with RFD, 18% of GFD responders) suggesting the presence of NCGS. Furthermore, such extra-intestinal symptoms as fatigue and weakness (P = 0.000), musculo-skeletal pain (P = 0.000) and headache (P = 0.002) improved in NCGS patients on GFD. Because of the high prevalence of NCGS among patients with RFD, a diagnostic/therapeutic roadmap evaluating the effect of GFD in patients with RFD seems a reasonable (and simple) approach.
The Mortality of Periviable and Extremely Premature Infants and Their Impact on the Overall Neonatal Mortality Rate
Authors: Falciglia Horacio S. , Merkel Ronald C. , Glover Vickie , Hasselfeld Kimberly A. , Brady W. Kim
Published: February 2020

To investigate mortality in periviable neonates ≤23 weeks gestational age and calculate its impact on overall neonatal mortality rate over a 12-year period (1998–2009). Verify if periviable mortality decreased in the period (2010–2015). Retrospective review. Neonatal mortality rate per 1000 live births was 11.4. Three hundred forty-nine live birth infants weighed ≤500 g and 336 died. Their proportion to the total neonatal mortality rate was 48.6%; out of 298 periviables 146 (43%) were ≤20 weeks gestational age. In 269 (80%) we could not determine the cause of death. Two hundred ninety-seven neonates (88.3%) died in the delivery room. Sixteen (5%) had an autopsy. Neonatal mortality rate from periviability was 96.2% and constituted half of the overall rate in the period (1998–2009). There was not significant reduction of periviable mortality between 2010 and 2015. Current live birth definition and a reporting system that considers a 100 g periviable live birth infant as a neonatal death has placed Ohio and the United States at a significant disadvantage compared to other countries using different reporting systems.
Functional MRI Mapping of Human Meniscus Functionality and its Relation to Degeneration
Authors: Nebelung Sven , Dötsch Lisa , Shah Dhaval , Abrar Daniel Benjamin , Linka Kevin , Knobe Matthias , Sewerin Philipp , Thüring Johannes , Kuhl Christiane , Truhn Daniel
Published: February 2020

Meniscus pathology may promote early osteoarthritis. This study assessed human meniscus functionality (i.e. its response to loading) ex vivo based on quantitative T1, T1ρ, and T2 mapping as a function of histological degeneration and loading. Forty-five meniscus samples of variable degeneration were harvested from the lateral meniscus body region of 45 patients during total knee arthroplasties. Samples underwent serial mapping on a 3.0-T MRI scanner (Achieva, Philips) using a force-controlled and torque-inducing compressive loading device. Samples were measured at three loading positions, i.e. unloaded, loaded to 2 bar (compression force 37 N) and 4 bar (69 N). Histology (Pauli classification) and biomechanics (Elastic Modulus) served as references. Based on histology, samples were trichotomized as grossly intact (n = 14), mildly degenerative (n = 16), and moderate-to-severely degenerative (n = 15) and analyzed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests. For T1, we found loading-induced decreases in all samples, irrespective of degeneration. For T1ρ, zonal increases in intact (apex) and decreases in degenerative samples (base) were found, while for T2, changes were ambiguous. In conclusion, force-controlled loading and serial MR imaging reveal response-to-loading patterns in meniscus. Zonal T1ρ response-to-loading patterns are most promising in differentiating degeneration, while T1 and T2 aren’t clearly related to degeneration.and may provide an imaging-based indication of functional tissue properties.
Author Correction: Metabolomics reveals perturbations in endometrium and serum of minimal and mild endometriosis
Authors: Dutta Mainak , Singh Brajesh , Joshi Mamata , Das Debanjan , Subramani Elavarasan , Maan Meenu , Jana Saikat Kumar , Sharma Uma , Das Soumen , Dasgupta Swagata , Ray Chaitali Datta , Chakravarty Baidyanath , Chaudhury Koel
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Carbon dioxide, bicarbonate and carbonate ions in aqueous solutions under deep Earth conditions
Authors: Dettori Riccardo , Donadio Davide
Published: February 2020

We investigate the effect of pressure, temperature and acidity on the composition of water-rich carbon-bearing fluids under thermodynamic conditions that correspond to the Earth's deep crust and upper mantle.
The synthesis and biological evaluation of sanguinarine derivatives as anti-non-small cell lung cancer agents
Authors: Jiang Liang , Wang Xiaolu , Wang Yuting , Xu Fang , Zhang Zhang , Ding Ke , Lu Xiaoyun
Published: February 2020

A novel series of sanguinarine (SA) derivatives were synthesized and firstly evaluated as anti-NSCLC agents. The SARs studies suggested that the CN+ bond was critical for anti-cancer activity and the C6-position was tolerated to be substituted by hydrophilic groups and CN.
Active droplets in a hydrogel release drugs with a constant and tunable rate
Authors: Wanzke Caren , Tena-Solsona Marta , Rieß Benedikt , Tebcharani Laura , Boekhoven Job
Published: February 2020

Materials that release drugs with a constant, zero-order rate are of great importance to improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce toxic side effects.
Corrosion inhibition on mild steel in 1 M HCl solution byCryptocarya nigraextracts and three of its constituents (alkaloids)
Authors: Faiz Mas , Zahari Azeana , Awang Khalijah , Hussin Hazwan
Published: February 2020

Staggered and systematic arrangement ofN-methyllaurotetanine2on the MS surface.
Retracted Article: Investigation of yellow horn (Xanthoceras sorbifoliaBunge) transcriptome in response to different abiotic stresses: a comparative RNA-Seq study
Authors: Lang Yanhe , Liu Zhi , Zheng Zhimin
Published: February 2020

Venn diagrams showing the overlapped genes in response to different abiotic stresses after 24 h and 48 h of stress applications.
Continuous syntheses of carbon-supported Pd and Pd@Pt core–shell nanoparticles using a flow-type single-mode microwave reactor
Authors: Miyakawa Masato , Hiyoshi Norihito , Koda Hidekazu , Watanabe Kenichi , Kunigami Hideki , Kunigami Hiroshi , Miyazawa Akira , Nishioka Masateru
Published: February 2020

Continuous syntheses of carbon-supported Pd@Pt core–shell nanoparticles were performed using flow processes including microwave-assisted Pd core–nanoparticle formation.
Distinctive behavior and two-dimensional vibrational dynamics of water molecules inside glycine solvation shell
Authors: Biswas Aritri , Mallik Bhabani S.
Published: February 2020

We present a first principles molecular dynamics study of a deuterated aqueous solution of a single glycine moiety to explore the structure, dynamics, and two-dimensional infrared spectra of water molecules found in the solvation shell of glycine.
The characterization and evaluation of the synthesis of large-ring cyclodextrins (CD9–CD22) and α-tocopherol with enhanced thermal stability
Authors: Cao Chuan , Xu Li , Xie Peng , Hu Jinwei , Qi Jun , Zhou Yibin , Cao Lei
Published: February 2020

Large-ring cyclodextrins LR-CDs (CD9–CD22) were obtained from rice starch using cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase), and were used as a wall material for embedding α-tocopherol.
Gel properties and flavor characteristics of blended anchovy (Engraulis japonicus) mince and silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) surimi
Authors: Yi Shumin , Ji Ying , Guo Zhihan , Zhu Jing , Xu YongXia , Li Xuepeng , Li Jianrong
Published: February 2020

This paper aims to research the gel properties and flavor characteristics of anchovy mince and silver carp surimi blended in different ratios.
Temperature controlled condensation of nitriles: efficient and convenient synthesis of β-enaminonitriles, 4-aminopyrimidines and 4-amidinopyrimidines in one system
Authors: Li Yinghua , Zhu Yingzu , Xiang Shiqun , Fan Weibin , Jin Jiang , Huang Deguang
Published: February 2020

A wide variety of β-enaminonitriles, 4-aminopyrimidines and 4-amidinopyrimidines were simply synthesized from organonitriles by controlling the reaction temperature.
Designing coexisting multi-phases in PZT multilayer thin films: an effective way to induce large electrocaloric effect
Authors: Chen Cai , Wang Sichun , Zhang Tiandong , Zhang Changhai , Chi Qingguo , Li Weili
Published: February 2020

Coexisting multi-phases in PbZrxTi1−xO3 multilayer thin films were successfully fabricated using the sol–gel method.
Isomeric effect of fluorene-based fused-ring electron acceptors to achieve high-efficiency organic solar cells
Authors: Xue Yung-Jing , Cao Fong-Yi , Huang Po-Kai , Su Yen-Chen , Cheng Yen-Ju
Published: February 2020

A TT-terminal ladder-type donor is generally a better molecular design than the corresponding T-terminal ladder-type isomer for the development of new A–D–A NFEAs.
Light-assisted gadofullerene nanoparticles disrupt tumor vasculatures for potent melanoma treatment
Authors: Lu Zhigao , Jia Wang , Deng Ruijun , Zhou Yue , Li Xue , Yu Tong , Zhen Mingming , Wang Chunru
Published: February 2020

The traditional photodynamic therapy (PDT) using a photosensitizer and oxygen under light generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) to kill tumor cells.
Highly stable performance of flexible Hf0.6Zr0.4O2 ferroelectric thin films under multi-service conditions
Authors: Liu Wen-Yan , Liao Jia-Jia , Jiang Jie , Zhou Yi-Chun , Chen Qiang , Mo Sheng-Tao , Yang Qiong , Peng Qiang-Xiang , Jiang Li-Mei
Published: February 2020

Flexible HZO ferroelectric films with superior ferroelectricity, retention and fatigue endurance under multiple harsh conditions.
Calix[4]resorcinarene-based hyper-structured molecular thermally activated delayed fluorescence yellow-green emitters for non-doped OLEDs
Authors: Wang Fanfan , Qiu Weidong , Zeng Jin , Yuan Peng , Zong Wansheng , Wu Wenbo , Liu Yingliang , Xu Shengang , Su Shi-Jian , Cao Shaokui
Published: February 2020

A series of novel hyper-structured molecular (HSM) thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) emitters, in which the TADF units and host units are bound together into one inactive core through flexible linkages, were designed.
Tetraphenylethylene-incorporated squaraine dyes: structural and theoretical insights into the diverse emission behaviors in solution and solid state
Authors: Shao Qingqing , Liang Kangli , Ling Huan , Wang Yigang , Yan Zhihong , Xia Guomin , Wang Hongming
Published: February 2020

We report TPE-incorporated squaraines with dual-state emission and decode their LE/TICT mechanism in solution and ESIPT mechanism in the crystalline state.
All-solution processed high performance inverted quantum dot light emitting diodes
Authors: Cun Yangke , Mai Chaohuang , Luo Yu , Mu Lan , Li Jiali , Cao Lijuan , Yu Danmu , Li Miaozi , Zhang Binbin , Li Haihua , Wang Jian
Published: February 2020

All-solution processed inverted quantum dot light emitting diodes (QLEDs) with record performance have been realized by introducing dually-doped poly(ethylenedioxythiophene)/polystyrenesulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and polyethylenimine (PEI).
An electrochemical aptasensor for lead ion detection based on catalytic hairpin assembly and porous carbon supported platinum as signal amplification
Authors: Jin Huali , Zhang Di , Liu Yong , Wei Min
Published: February 2020

A novel electrochemical aptasensor for lead detection based on catalytic hairpin assembly and PtNPs@PCs as signal amplification.
The relative stability of trpzip1 and its mutants determined by computation and experiment
Authors: Bureau Hailey R. , Quirk Stephen , Hernandez Rigoberto
Published: February 2020

The single-point mutations of tprzip1 are indicated at left, and their relative energetics are compared at right.
High recorded color rendering index in single Ce,(Pr,Mn):YAG transparent ceramics for high-power white LEDs/LDs
Authors: Ma Yuelong , Zhang Le , Zhou Tianyuan , Sun Bingheng , Wang Yun , Kang Jian , Gao Pan , Huang Jin , Selim Farida A. , Wong Chingping , Li Ming , Chen Hao
Published: February 2020

A recorded CRI of 84.8 in Ce,(Pr,Mn):YAG TCs for high-power LEDs/LDs was achieved by the synchronous doping of Pr3+ and Mn2+ ions.
Entwicklung, Durchführung und Evaluierung eines
Präventionsprogrammes für Pflegekräfte (PFLEGEprevent)
– Studienprotokoll
Authors: Ehegartner Veronika , Kirschneck Michaela , Frisch Dieter , Schuh Angela , Kus Sandra
Published: February 2020

Gezielte Präventionsmaßnahmen können dabei helfen die
Mitarbeitergesundheit in Betrieben zu verbessern und die Ressourcen dieser
Personen zu stärken. Das Forschungsprojekt
„PFLEGEprevent“ (gefördert vom Bayerischen
Staatsministerium für Gesundheit und Pflege) hat zum Ziel ein
Präventionsprogramm zu entwickeln, das auf die spezifischen
Bedürfnisse von Pflegekräften ausgerichtet ist. Das Projekt
besteht aus vier Phasen: (1) Identifizierung von Bedürfnissen,
Arbeitsbelastungen und beruflichen Herausforderungen der
Pflegekräfte und deren wissenschaftlichen Evidenz (nationale
Expertenbefragung und systematischer Literaturreview), (2) Entwicklung des
Präventionsprogrammes für Pflegekräfte, (3)
Implementierung und Evaluierung des Präventionsprogrammes
(Interventionsstudie; DRKS00012870), (4) Ausarbeitung eines Manuals zur
Umsetzung der Maßnahme (Übertragbarkeit). Das
Studienprotokoll liefert eine Übersicht zu den vier Phasen des
Projektes.
Daumenmikrothrombose/Daumennekrose eines Patienten mit heparininduzierter Thrombozytopenie
Authors: Lucic Josip , Bakchoul Tamam , Althaus Karina
Published: February 2020

Wir berichten über einen 81-jährigen Patienten, der unter der Therapie mit unfraktioniertem Heparin (UFH) in prophylaktischer Dosierung eine heparininduzierte Thrombozytopenie mit Mikrothromben und beginnender Nekrose entwickelt hat. Die Prophylaxe wurde mit UFH durchgeführt. An Tag 10 kam es zu einem Thrombozytenabfall um > 50%. Eine Daumennekrose weckte den Verdacht auf eine heparininduzierte Thrombozytopenie (HIT). Der 4T-Score zeigte eine hohe Wahrscheinlichkeit für eine HIT auf (7 Punkte). Da der Schnelltest positiv ausfiel, wurde eine therapeutische Antikoagulation mit Argatroban (2 µg/kg/min) bereits vor vollständiger labortechnischer Abklärung begonnen. Sowohl die Thrombozytenzahl als auch der Daumen erholten sich innerhalb von 5 Tagen nach der Umstellung auf Argatroban. Unser Fallbeispiel zeigt, dass bei dem Verdacht auf HIT eine sofortige Umstellung auf alternative Antikoagulation in therapeutischer Dosis zur Reversion beginnender Nekrosen führen kann.
Rolle des Darmes bei der Multiplen Sklerose
Authors: Linker Ralf A. , Haghikia Aiden
Published: February 2020

Die Multiple Sklerose (MS) ist eine autoimmunvermittelte Erkrankung des zentralen Nervensystems (ZNS), die in Deutschland ca. 230000 Menschen betrifft. Bis heute existiert für die MS keine Heilung. Als Ursachen werden genetische und Umwelt-Risikofaktoren angenommen, wobei letztere mit ca. 70 % des Risikos den Hauptanteil einnehmen. In diesem Zusammenhang weisen neuere Studien auf eine wichtige Rolle des Darms, des intestinalen Mikrobioms, d. h. der Gesamtheit aller Darmbakterien, und der Diät zur Erkrankungsmodulation hin. Hierdurch könnten neue Therapieansätze geliefert werden. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit diskutieren wir aktuelle Erkenntnisse zur Bedeutung des Darms und der Ernährung aus präklinischen Modellen der MS sowie aus translationalen Studien mit MS-Patienten. Diese Studien zeigen, dass Darmbakterien eine wichtige Rolle für die Entstehung und Erkrankungsprogression spielen können. Darüber hinaus existiert eine komplexe Interaktion zwischen der Diät und dem Mikrobiom sowie dem Immunsystem, was auf die Möglichkeit einer Modulation der MS auf diesem Wege hinweist. Diätetische Ansätze wie kurzkettige gesättigte Fettsäuren und Fasten können die MS und ihre experimentellen Modelle günstig beeinflussen. Derartige diätetische oder probiotische Ansätze werden in randomisierten klinischen Studien getestet.
Darmmikrobiom bei primären Hirntumoren
Authors: Anssar Tareq M. , Hau Peter
Published: February 2020

Primäre Hirntumoren kommen weniger häufig vor als andere Tumorentitäten. Das Glioblastom ist der häufigste primäre Hirntumor bei Erwachsenen und hat eine sehr schlechte Prognose. Die Pathophysiologie vieler Hirntumoren ist nur unzureichend verstanden. Eine kurative Therapie existiert bis auf wenige Ausnahmen nicht. Bei einigen soliden und hämatologischen Tumoren konnte in den letzten Jahren ein Zusammenhang zwischen Tumorentstehung und -progression mit Veränderungen im intestinalen Mikrobiom festgestellt werden. Zusammenhänge zwischen Mikrobiota und primären Hirntumoren wurden hingegen nicht publiziert.

In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden Mechanismen dargestellt, die bei einer möglichen Interaktion zwischen Mikrobiom und Hirntumoren eine Rolle spielen können. Dabei steht die Schranke vom Darmepithel zum peripheren Blut und vom peripheren Blut zum Gehirn im Mittelpunkt des Interesses. Im Hinblick auf die Darm-Blutschranke sind Interaktionen zwischen Mikrobiom und Immunphänotyp sowie Metaboliten im peripheren Blut bekannt. Im Hinblick auf die Blut-Hirnschranke bestehen mögliche Assoziationen des Immunphänotyps und der Metaboliten im peripheren Blut mit der Immuninfiltration im Gehirn und der Induktion pathogeneserelevanter Signalkaskaden.
Migräne und der Gastrointestinaltrakt
Authors: Straube Andreas , Ruscheweyh Ruth
Published: February 2020

Migräne ist die häufigste neurologische Erkrankung und betrifft ca. 10–12 % der Bevölkerung. Frauen sind etwa 2- bis 3-fach häufiger betroffen als Männer. Als neurophysiologisches Korrelat der Migräne wird eine Aktivierung von trigeminalen und parasympathischen Verbindungen vom und zum Hirnstamm und den Meningen gesehen. Dort kommt es zu einer neurogen induzierten Entzündung mit konsekutiver Weitstellung der Gefäße in diesem Gebiet. Gastrointestinale Symptome, insbesondere Übelkeit und Erbrechen, sind typische Begleiterscheinungen der Migräne. Dies zeigt, dass die Migräne Einfluss auf den Gastrointestinaltrakt nehmen kann. Andererseits gibt es zahlreiche Hinweise, dass der Gastrointestinaltrakt die Migräne beeinflussen kann. Ein Ansatz geht von einer Modulation vagaler, sensorischer Afferenzen aus dem Darm zu den zentralen parasympathischen Arealen aus, die dann das zentrale antinozizeptive System beeinflussen. Eine weitere Verbindung zwischen Migräne und Magen-Darm-Trakt ist durch die Calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP)-Ausschüttung in den intrinsischen sensorischen Neuronen des Darmtraktes gegeben. In den letzten Jahren wurde wiederholt gezeigt, dass verschiedene Darmerkrankungen, die meist mit einer gesteigerten Entzündungsaktivität einhergehen, mit einer Migräne vergesellschaftet sind (z. B. Morbus Crohn). Eine mögliche Erklärung ist, dass diese Erkrankungen zu einem vermehrten Durchtritt von Toxinen durch die Darmwand in die Zirkulation führen („leaky gut“) und dieses schließlich zu einer vermehrten entzündlichen Aktivität an den meningealen Gefäßen führt. Schon länger ist bekannt, dass eine systemische proinflammatorische Aktivität zu häufigeren Migräneattacken führen kann. Ein Weg, die Durchlässigkeit der Darmschleimhaut zu beeinflussen sind Probiotika, die durch eine gezielte Änderung des Besatzes mit Darmbakterien die Darmschleimhaut stabilisieren sollen. Die Datenlage zum Einsatz von Probiotika bei Migräne ist jedoch heterogen und lässt eine eindeutige Aussage zur Wirksamkeit nicht zu.
Effect of Chin-Down Position on Vocal Mean Pitch and Intensity
Authors: Joseph Bennet Elsa , Mathew Mable , Raj Keerthana Kulath Purath
Published: February 2020

Background Voice, a unique characteristic of each individual, is an outcome of the configuration and function of various components of the vocal tract. Pitch and loudness, being integral parts of voice, vary with changes in factors such as muscle tension, subglottal pressure, and position. Chin down is often the recommended voice therapy for lowering pitch. But there is no literature available as to by how much does it actually change the mean pitch and intensity. The present study was undertaken to understand the effect on the vocal mean pitch and intensity when head position is changed to chin-down position.

Methods Thirty women aged 18 to 25 years were included in this preliminary study. Individuals having any history of voice disorder were excluded. Voice samples were collected using clinical microphone and acoustically analyzed using the Praat software. The participants were instructed to phonate and count numbers in neutral position and chin down position.

Results It was observed that there was no change in the acoustic or perceptual measure of pitch with change in the head position. However, there was a significant reduction in the intensity for phonation task in the chin-down position.

Conclusion Speech language pathologists need to provide chin down as a facilitative technique for lowering larynx along with other voice therapies which are proved to effectively lower pitch.
Does Hearing Thresholds Vary Across Different Blood Groups?
Authors: Sarve Archana Rai , K. Megha , Hem Devika
Published: February 2020

The current study aimed at identifying the relationship between the blood group and hearing thresholds. The objective of the study was to identify if there is a difference in the pure tone audiometric thresholds of individuals with different blood groups, and to identify if there is a difference between pure tone audiometric thresholds of males and females of the same blood group. A prospective study was performed involving 80 normal hearing individuals between the age of 18 and 40 years. All participants included in the study had normal hearing (< 25 dBHL) and were Rh+. Participants complaining or giving indications of any kind of cochlear or retrocochlear pathological conditions were excluded from the study. Participants were grouped based on their blood groups. Each group consisted of 20 participants. Thresholds were established for frequencies ranging from 125 Hz to 20 KHz. Descriptive statistical analysis was done for mean and standard deviation. Bonferroni post hoc analysis was carried out for multiple comparisons, and the results revealed that there was no statistically significant difference in thresholds observed among different blood groups.
Urogenital Sinus with Mitrofanoff Procedure: Case Review
Authors: David Jeyamoni , J. Menaka , Subramaniam Rajeswari , Gnanam Malarvizhi
Published: February 2020

Urogenital sinus is a rare congenital anomaly. We reviewed a case of urogenital sinus anomaly in 6-year-old girl with recurrent urinary tract infection and small bladder capacity who was referred from another hospital in Coimbatore for further management. The external genitalia appeared normal, and an initial sonogram and repeat micturating cystourethrograms did not indicate any urogenital anomalies. She therefore underwent clean intermittent catheterization. Three years later the child underwent investigations like urodynamic study (UDS) and dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) scan and cystoscopy, followed by ureteric implantation and Mitrofanoff procedure. The presentation of urogenital sinus anomaly with recurrent urinary tract infection is rare and the management is complex.
Health, Disease, and Social Structure in Rural India
Authors: Nanjunda Devajana Chinnappa
Published: February 2020

Health and disease are the two noteworthy dimensions of behavior. During the lifetime, every individual traverses through health and disease. It is not an all or none type of occurrence but a relative location that explains whether the individual is healthy or unhealthy. The individual perception of health status is largely a psychological phenomenon. In spite of the beginning of the disease process, an individual may not even perceive it at any point of time. An organic disorder may not at all involve an individual until it is perceptible. Conversely, without any organic disorder, an individual may report himself to be unhealthy. Thus, logically, disease and health may coexist in the same individual. These two are not just equally exclusive entities. This study has been performed with two objectives (1) to study the changing social, economical, cultural, political, health, and demographic profile of the studied rural population and (2) to understand the changing illness ideology of the rural people and to find out the existing perception, health-seeking behavior, and culturally bounded attitudes about the onset of certain common diseases, and use of different systems of medicines. This study has been done in the selected districts on 800 households of Karnataka, India, using both qualitative and quantitative techniques.
Diagnostic Challenges in Newborns and Infants with Coagulation Disorders
Authors: Eberl Wolfgang
Published: February 2020

Laboratory diagnostics in children and adolescents, especially in newborns and very small children, differ considerably compared with laboratory diagnostics in adults. This applies to all individual steps of the examination (i.e., the indication, the preanalytical phase, the analysis itself, and interpretation of the findings). This is particularly true in the diagnostics of hemostasis, in which small sample volumes and relatively error prone coagulation tests are posing particular challenges to the strategy, performance, and evaluation of the tests. Differences in the individual steps are illustrated below.
Integration of polycrystalline Ga2O3 on diamond for thermal management
Authors: Cheng Zhe , Wheeler Virginia D. , Bai Tingyu , Shi Jingjing , Tadjer Marko J. , Feygelson Tatyana , Hobart Karl D. , Goorsky Mark S. , Graham Samuel
Published: February 2020

Gallium oxide (Ga2O3) has attracted great attention for electronic device applications due to its ultra-wide bandgap, high breakdown electric field, and large-area affordable substrates grown from the melt. However, its thermal conductivity is significantly lower than that of other wide bandgap semiconductors such as SiC, AlN, and GaN, which will impact its ability to be used in high power density applications. Thermal management in Ga2O3 electronics will be the key for device reliability, especially for high power and high frequency devices. Similar to the method of cooling GaN-based high electron mobility transistors by integrating it with high thermal conductivity diamond substrates, this work studies the possibility of heterogeneous integration of Ga2O3 with diamond for the thermal management of Ga2O3 devices. In this work, Ga2O3 was deposited onto single crystal diamond substrates by atomic layer deposition (ALD), and the thermal properties of ALD-Ga2O3 thin films and Ga2O3–diamond interfaces with different interface pretreatments were measured by Time-domain Thermoreflectance. We observed a very low thermal conductivity of these Ga2O3 thin films (about 1.5 W/m K) due to the extensive phonon grain boundary scattering resulting from the nanocrystalline nature of the Ga2O3 film. However, the measured thermal boundary conductance (TBC) of the Ga2O3–diamond interfaces is about ten times larger than that of the van der Waals bonded Ga2O3–diamond interfaces, which indicates the significant impact of interface bonding on TBC. Furthermore, the TBC of the Ga-rich and O-rich Ga2O3–diamond interfaces is about 20% smaller than that of the clean interface, indicating that interface chemistry affects the interfacial thermal transport. Overall, this study shows that a high TBC can be obtained from strong interfacial bonds across Ga2O3–diamond interfaces, providing a promising route to improving the heat dissipation from Ga2O3 devices with lateral architectures.
The pristine, cleaved surface of a crystal superconducts at a higher temperature than its bulk
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: February 2020

A new apparatus for measuring the superconductivity of cleaved crystals under vacuum shows enhanced superconductivity of the surface.
Pyramid texturing on silicon solar cells traps light more efficiently
Authors: Mandel Savannah
Published: February 2020

A comparison of idealized and real pyramid textures in silicon solar cells demonstrates that a truly random pyramid texture improves light trapping efficiency.
Molecular composition of soil dissolved organic matter in recently-burned and long-unburned boreal forests
Authors: Ide Jun'ichiro , Ohashi Mizue , Köster Kajar , Berninger Frank , Miura Ikumi , Makita Naoki , Yamase Keitaro , Palviainen Marjo , Pumpanen Jukka
Published: February 2020

Forest fires can change the quality of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in soils, and consequently have a great influence on biogeochemical cycles in forest ecosystems. However, little information is available regarding the effects of fire on the chemical composition of DOM in boreal forest soils. To clarify these effects, the molecular composition of soil DOM was compared between recently-burned and long-unburned boreal forests (6 and 156 years since the last fire, respectively) in Finnish Lapland. Ultrahigh-resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry revealed that there were no significant differences in species, average molecular weight or the number of molecular compounds detected between the recently-burned and long-unburned forests. However, the number of compounds with condensed aromatic structures tended to be larger in the recently-burned forest, whereas the numbers of proteins and carbohydrates not shared between the two forests were significantly smaller. Lignin-like molecules accounted for most of the total molecular species in both forests. Our results suggest that fire not only generated several species of dissolved black carbon, but also caused burned plant residues, which supplied diverse lignin-like molecules in the recently-burned forest soils and led to the number of molecular species being comparable to that in the long-unburned forest soils.
How far away must forced letters be so that squares are still avoidable?
Authors: Rosenfeld Matthieu
Published: February 2020

We describe a new nonconstructive technique to show that squares are avoidable by an infinite word even if we force some letters from the alphabet to appear at certain occurrences. We show that as long as forced positions are at a distance at least 19 (resp., 3, resp., 2) from each other, then we can avoid squares over 3 letters (resp., 4 letters, resp., 6 or more letters). We can also deduce exponential lower bounds on the number of solutions. For our main theorem to be applicable, we need to check the existence of some languages and we explain how to verify that they exist with a computer. We hope that this technique could be applied to other avoidability questions where the good approach seems to be nonconstructive (e.g., the Thue-list coloring number of the infinite path).
Mixed radial-angular integrability for rough singular integrals and maximal operators
Authors: Liu Ronghui , Liu Feng , Wu Huoxiong
Published: February 2020

This paper is devoted to studying singular integrals and maximal operators with rough kernels in the mixed homogeneity setting. Assuming the kernels satisfy certain rather weak sized conditions, the boundedness for such operators on the mixed radial-angular spaces are established. Meanwhile, the corresponding vector-valued versions are also obtained. All of the results are new even in the isotropic setting.
Isometric study of Wasserstein spaces – the real line
Authors: Gehér György , Titkos Tamás , Virosztek Dániel
Published: February 2020

Recently Kloeckner described the structure of the isometry group of the quadratic Wasserstein space

W

2

(

R

n

)

\mathcal {W}_2(\mathbb {R}^n)

. It turned out that the case of the real line is exceptional in the sense that there exists an exotic isometry flow. Following this line of investigation, we compute

I
s
o
m

(

W

p

(

R

)
)

\mathrm {Isom}(\mathcal {W}_p(\mathbb {R}))

, the isometry group of the Wasserstein space

W

p

(

R

)

\mathcal {W}_p(\mathbb {R})

for all

p
∈
[
1
,
∞
)
∖
{
2
}

p \in [1, \infty )\setminus \{2\}

. We show that

W

2

(

R

)

\mathcal {W}_2(\mathbb {R})

is also exceptional regarding the parameter

p
p

:

W

p

(

R

)

\mathcal {W}_p(\mathbb {R})

is isometrically rigid if and only if

p
≠
2

p\neq 2

. Regarding the underlying space, we prove that the exceptionality of

p
=
2

p=2

disappears if we replace

R

\mathbb {R}

by the compact interval

[
0
,
1
]

[0,1]

. Surprisingly, in that case,

W

p

(
[
0
,
1
]
)

\mathcal {W}_p([0,1])

is isometrically rigid if and only if

p
≠
1

p\neq 1

. Moreover,

W

1

(
[
0
,
1
]
)

\mathcal {W}_1([0,1])

admits isometries that split mass, and

I
s
o
m

(

W

1

(
[
0
,
1
]
)
)

\mathrm {Isom}(\mathcal {W}_1([0,1]))

cannot be embedded into

I
s
o
m

(

W

1

(

R

)
)

\mathrm {Isom}(\mathcal {W}_1(\mathbb {R}))

.
Christian Bioethics: From Foundations to the Future
Authors: Iltis Ana
Published: February 2020

The papers in this issue of Christian Bioethics explore and challenge taken-for-granted ideas that inform judgments about the nature of Christian bioethics, the nature of Christian clinicians’ and healthcare organizations’ obligations, and the nature of who we are. In doing so, these leading scholars in the field address some of the most fundamental questions in Christian bioethics scholarship today.
Coordinate Graph Grammar for the Specification of Spatial Graphs
Authors: Liu Yufeng , Zeng Xiaoqin , Zhang Kang , Zou Yang
Published: February 2020

As a two-dimensional formal method, graph grammar is widely used in defining various visual programming languages. This paper presents a new graph grammar formalism called coordinate graph grammar (CGG). CGG is extended from the edge-based graph grammar (EGG) by introducing the spatial mechanism into the theoretical framework, which consists of continuous coordinate graph grammar (cCGG) and discrete coordinate graph grammar (dCGG). By combining quantitative and qualitative spatial semantics in one framework, CGG provides strong expressiveness and flexibility for specifying various spatial graphs. This paper focuses on several important issues on the new formalism. First, the theoretical framework of CGG is given. Second, two matching algorithms for cCGG and dCGG are proposed, which use the spatial relationships between nodes to narrow down the search space during parsing. Finally, an application of CGG is demonstrated, which generates parsable flowcharts in a uniform layout.
Adenosine kinase is critical for neointima formation after vascular injury by inducing aberrant DNA hypermethylation
Authors: Wang Yong , Xu Yiming , Yan Siyuan , Cao Kaixiang , Zeng Xianqiu , Zhou Yaqi , Liu Zhiping , Yang Qiuhua , Pan Yue , Wang Xiaoling , Boison Detlev , Su Yunchao , Jiang Xuejun , Patel Vijay S , Fulton David , Weintraub Neal L , Huo Yuqing
Published: February 2020

Aims

Adenosine receptors and extracellular adenosine have been demonstrated to modulate vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and neointima formation. Adenosine kinase (ADK) is a major enzyme regulating intracellular adenosine levels but is function in VSMC remains unclear. Here, we investigated the role of ADK in vascular injury-induced smooth muscle proliferation and delineated the mechanisms underlying its action.

Methods and results

We found that ADK expression was higher in the neointima of injured vessels and in platelet-derived growth factor-treated VSMCs. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of ADK was enough to attenuate arterial injury-induced neointima formation due to inhibition of VSMC proliferation. Mechanistically, using infinium methylation assays and bisulfite sequencing, we showed that ADK metabolized the intracellular adenosine and potentiated the transmethylation pathway, then induced the aberrant DNA hypermethylation. Pharmacological inhibition of aberrant DNA hypermethylation increased KLF4 expression and suppressed VSMC proliferation as well as the neointima formation. Importantly, in human femoral arteries, we observed increased ADK expression and DNA hypermethylation as well as decreased KLF4 expression in neointimal VSMCs of stenotic vessels suggesting that our findings in mice are relevant for human disease and may hold translational significance.

Conclusion

Our study unravels a novel mechanism by which ADK promotes VSMC proliferation via inducing aberrant DNA hypermethylation, thereby down-regulating KLF4 expression and promoting neointima formation. These findings advance the possibility of targeting ADK as an epigenetic modulator to combat vascular injury.
Long-term implications of left atrial appendage thrombus identified incidentally by pre-procedural cardiac computed tomography angiography in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Szekely Yishay , Shmilovich Haim , Hochstadt Aviram , Ghantous Eihab , Topilsky Yan , Aviram Galit , Hadad Yitzhak , Arbel Yaron , Konigstein Maayan , Banai Shmuel , Finkelstein Ariel , Halkin Amir
Published: February 2020

Aims

The prevalence and prognostic implications of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus (LAAT) in patients considered for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) are incompletely defined. We, therefore, studied pre-procedural cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) scans of TAVR candidates to determine the prevalence of LAAT and its association with late outcomes.

Methods and results

Baseline clinical variables and CCTA findings from a prospective TAVR registry were analysed for the prevalence of pre-procedural LAAT and its impact on in-hospital outcomes and late mortality. LAAT was differentiated from LAA filling defects (LAAFD) reflecting stasis without clot. Patients (n = 561) with complete in-hospital and late mortality data were included in the study (median follow-up 31.6 months). LAAT and LAAFD were evidenced on pre-procedural CCTA in 24 (4.3%) and 26 (4.6%) patients, respectively. One hundred fourteen (20.3%) patients died during the study period. Though in-hospital adverse event rates (including stroke) did not differ among groups, mortality at long-term follow-up was higher among LAAT patients compared with those with or without LAAFD (58.3% vs. 11.5% vs. 19.0%, respectively; P < 0.003). By multivariable analysis, LAAT (but not LAAFD) was independently associated with all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.33 (1.83–6.00), P < 0.001]. In patients with LAAT, oral anticoagulation at discharge was associated with lower mortality risk, independently of atrial fibrillation status.

Conclusions

LAAT visualized by pre-procedural CCTA is an independent predictor of late mortality following TAVR, but not peri-procedural stroke. When reporting TAVR-CCTA, particular note should be made of LAA features and presence of LAAT which may have prognostic and management implications.
Service utilization patterns for childbirth and neonatal mortality in the occupied Palestinian territory during conflict
Authors: Siam Zeina Ali , Leone Tiziana
Published: February 2020

Background

The global incidence of man-made crises has increased in the last decade. Evidence on deviations in service uptake during conflict is needed to better understand the link between conflict and adverse neonatal outcomes. We assessed the association between conflict intensity in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) at time of birth and (i) utilization patterns for childbirth across different providers; and (ii) neonatal mortality.

Methods

We combined data on conflict intensity with four demographic and health surveys (2004, 2006, 2010 and 2014) that included nationally representative samples of women of childbearing age. Our exposure variable was casualties per 100 000 population in defined sub-regions of the oPt. Our outcome specifications were a binary variable for neonatal deaths and a categorical variable for childbirth location. We used multivariate logistic and multinomial regressions to assess the associations.

Results

High conflict intensity was associated with fewer childbirths in the private sector (RR=0.97, P=0.04), and non-governmental organizations (RR=0.95, P=0.03) compared to public facilities. Conflict intensity was not associated with higher neonatal mortality beyond 2004.

Conclusions

Policy implications include better preparedness in the public sector for childbirth during conflict and exploring reasons for the slow decline in neonatal mortality in the territory beyond conflict at time of birth.
Chitin binding protein as a possible RNA binding protein inLeishmaniaparasites
Authors: Rashidi Sajad , Kalantar Kurosh , Fernandez-Rubio Celia , Anvari Enayat , Nguewa Paul , Hatam Gholamreza
Published: February 2020

Leishmaniasis includes a broad spectrum of pathological outcomes in humans caused by protozoan parasites from the genus Leishmania. In recent years, proteomic techniques have introduced novel proteins with critical functions in Leishmania parasites. Based on our report of a Chitin binding protein (CBP) in our previous immunoproteomic study, this article suggests that CBP might be an RNA binding protein (RBP) in Leishmania parasites. RBPs, as key regulatory factors, have a role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. The presence of RBPs in Leishmania parasites has not been considered so far; however, this study aims to open a new venue regarding RBPs in Leishmania parasites. Confirming CBP as an RBP in Leishmania parasites, exploring other RBPs and their functions might lead to interesting issues in leishmaniasis. In fact, due to the regulatory role of RBPs in different diseases including cancers and their further classification as therapeutic targets, the emerging evaluation of CBP and RBPs from Leishmania parasites may allow the discovery of novel and effective drugs against leishmaniasis.
De novo genome assembly and Hi-C analysis reveal an association between chromatin architecture alterations and sex differentiation in the woody plant Jatropha curcas
Authors: Chen Mao-Sheng , Niu Longjian , Zhao Mei-Li , Xu Chuanjia , Pan Bang-Zhen , Fu Qiantang , Tao Yan-Bin , He Huiying , Hou Chunhui , Xu Zeng-Fu
Published: February 2020

Background

Chromatin architecture is an essential factor regulating gene transcription in different cell types and developmental phases. However, studies on chromatin architecture in perennial woody plants and on the function of chromatin organization in sex determination have not been reported.

Results

Here, we produced a chromosome-scale de novo genome assembly of the woody plant Jatropha curcas with a total length of 379.5 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 30.7 Mb using Pacific Biosciences long reads combined with genome-wide chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) technology. Based on this high-quality reference genome, we detected chromatin architecture differences between monoecious and gynoecious inflorescence buds of Jatropha. Differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in the changed A/B compartments and topologically associated domain regions and occurred preferentially in differential contact regions between monoecious and gynoecious inflorescence buds. Twelve differentially expressed genes related to flower development or hormone synthesis displayed significantly different genomic interaction patterns in monoecious and gynoecious inflorescence buds. These results demonstrate that chromatin organization participates in the regulation of gene transcription during the process of sex differentiation in Jatropha.

Conclusions

We have revealed the features of chromatin architecture in perennial woody plants and investigated the possible function of chromatin organization in Jatropha sex differentiation. These findings will facilitate understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of sex determination in higher plants.