bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of aging on transition of acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease
Authors: Kim Myung-Gyu , Yang Jihyun , Ko Yoon Sook , Lee Hee Young , Oh Se Won , Cho Won Yong , Jo Sang-Kyung
Published: December 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) increases the risk of end stage renal disease among the elderly, but the precise underlying mechanism is unknown. We investigated the effects of aging on AKI-to-chronic kidney disease (CKD) transition, focusing on renal inflammation. Aged and young C57BL/6 mice were subjected to bilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Baseline proinflammatory cytokine levels of kidneys were elevated in aged mice. After IRI, aged mice also showed persistent M1 dominant inflammation, with increased proinflammatory cytokines during the recovery phase. Persistent M1 inflammation was associated with blunted activation of CSF-1/IRF4 signal for M1/M2 polarization, but in vitro macrophage polarization with cytokine stimulation was not different between young and aged mononuclear cells. The tubular expressions of cell cycle arrest markers increased in aged mice during recovery phase, and in vitro transwell experiments showed that mononuclear cells or M1 macrophages co-cultured with arrested proximal tubular cells at G1 phase significantly impaired M2 polarization, suggesting that prolonged G1 arrest might be involved in persistent M1 inflammation in aged mice. Finally, M1 dominant inflammation in aged mice resulted in fibrosis progression. Our data show that impaired M2 polarization partially driven by senescent tubule cells with cell-cycle arrest may lead to an accelerated progression to CKD in the elderly.
Seven-day Green Tea Supplementation Revamps Gut Microbiome and Caecum/Skin Metabolome in Mice from Stress
Authors: Jung Eun Sung , Park Jong il , Park Hyunjoon , Holzapfel Wilhelm , Hwang Jae Sung , Lee Choong Hwan
Published: December 2019

Green tea supplementation has beneficial health effects. However, its underlying mechanisms, such as effects on modulating the intestinal microbiome and endogenous metabolome, particularly following short-term supplementation, are largely unclear. We conducted an integrative metabolomics study to evaluate the effects of short-term (7-day) supplementation of green tea extract (GTE) or its components, epigallocatechin gallate, caffeine, and theanine, on the caecum microbiota and caecum/skin metabolome in mice. Further, we established an integrative metabolome-microbiome model for correlating gut and skin findings. The effects of short-term supplementation with dietary compounds were evaluated with respect to UV stress response, with GTE showing the most remarkable effects. Biplot analysis revealed that Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus spp. were considerably influenced by short-term GTE supplementation, while Clostridium butyricum was significantly increased by UV stress without supplementation. GTE supplementation helped the skin metabolome defend against UV stress. Interestingly, a significant positive correlation was observed between caecum bacteria (Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus spp.) and metabolites including skin barrier function-related skin metabolites, caecal fatty acids, and caecal amino acids. Overall, 7-day GTE supplementation was sufficient to alter the gut microbiota and endogenous caecum/skin metabolome, with positive effects on UV stress response, providing insight into the mechanism of the prebiotic effects of GTE supplementation.
Comparative analysis of corrected tiger genome provides clues to its neuronal evolution
Authors: Mittal Parul , Jaiswal Shubham K. , Vijay Nagarjun , Saxena Rituja , Sharma Vineet K.
Published: December 2019

The availability of completed and draft genome assemblies of tiger, leopard, and other felids provides an opportunity to gain comparative insights on their unique evolutionary adaptations. However, genome-wide comparative analyses are susceptible to errors in genome sequences and thus require accurate genome assemblies for reliable evolutionary insights. In this study, while analyzing the tiger genome, we found almost one million erroneous substitutions in the coding and non-coding region of the genome affecting 4,472 genes, hence, biasing the current understanding of tiger evolution. Moreover, these errors produced several misleading observations in previous studies. Thus, to gain insights into the tiger evolution, we corrected the erroneous bases in the genome assembly and gene set of tiger using ‘SeqBug’ approach developed in this study. We sequenced the first Bengal tiger genome and transcriptome from India to validate these corrections. A comprehensive evolutionary analysis was performed using 10,920 orthologs from nine mammalian species including the corrected gene sets of tiger and leopard and using five different methods at three hierarchical levels, i.e. felids,Panthera, and tiger. The unique genetic changes in tiger revealed that the genes showing signatures of adaptation in tiger were enriched in development and neuronal functioning. Specifically, the genes belonging to the Notch signalling pathway, which is among the most conserved pathways involved in embryonic and neuronal development, were found to have significantly diverged in tiger in comparison to the other mammals. Our findings suggest the role of adaptive evolution in neuronal functions and development processes, which correlates well with the presence of exceptional traits such as sensory perception, strong neuro-muscular coordination, and hypercarnivorous behaviour in tiger.
Associations between echocardiographic findings and prospective changes in residual renal function in patients new to peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Mahdavi Sara , Yared Kibar , Wu George , Omar Billy , Savundra Dinesh , Nagai Gordon , Hockmann Edgar , Svendrovski Anton , Bellasi Antonio , Tam Paul , Sikaneta Tabo
Published: December 2019

Although echocardiograms are often performed when peritoneal dialysis is started, associations between commonly reported findings and prospective changes in renal function remain understudied. Ninety-nine of 101 patients in the Trio Trial had transthoracic echocardiograms within 6 months of dialysis initiation, and measurements of residual renal function every six weeks for up to two years. Generalized mixed modelling linear regression in STATA was used to examine associations between left atrial size, left ventricular hypertrophy, left ventricular ejection fraction, right ventricular systolic pressure, and left valvular calcification with subsequent slopes in renal function. After echocardiography (performed a median of 16 days following peritoneal dialysis initiation) right ventricular systolic pressure was associated with faster, while declining left ventricular ejection fraction and valvular calcification were associated with slower declines in residual renal function. Future studies could be conducted to confirm these findings, and identify pathophysiological mechanisms.
Common genetic variants associated with Parkinson’s disease display widespread signature of epigenetic plasticity
Authors: Sharma Amit , Osato Naoki , Liu Hongde , Asthana Shailendra , Dakal Tikam Chand , Ambrosini Giovanna , Bucher Philipp , Schmitt Ina , Wüllner Ullrich
Published: December 2019

Parkinson disease (PD) is characterized by a pivotal progressive loss of substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons and aggregation of α-synuclein protein encoded by the SNCA gene. Genome-wide association studies identified almost 100 sequence variants linked to PD in SNCA. However, the consequences of this genetic variability are rather unclear. Herein, our analysis on selective single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) which are highly associated with the PD susceptibility revealed that several SNP sites attribute to the nucleosomes and overlay with bivalent regions poised to adopt either active or repressed chromatin states. We also identified large number of transcription factor (TF) binding sites associated with these variants. In addition, we located two docking sites in the intron-1 methylation prone region of SNCA which are required for the putative interactions with DNMT1. Taken together, our analysis reflects an additional layer of epigenomic contribution for the regulation of the SNCA gene in PD.
A new antiviral scaffold for human norovirus identified with computer-aided approaches on the viral polymerase
Authors: Giancotti Gilda , Rigo Ilaria , Pasqualetto Gaia , Young Mark T. , Neyts Johan , Rocha-Pereira Joana , Brancale Andrea , Ferla Salvatore , Bassetto Marcella
Published: December 2019

Human norovirus is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis worldwide, affecting every year 685 million people. In about one third of cases, this virus affects children under five years of age, causing each year up to 200,000 child deaths, mainly in the developing countries. Norovirus outbreaks are associated with very significant economic losses, with an estimated societal cost of 60 billion dollars per year. Despite the marked socio-economic consequences associated, no therapeutic options or vaccines are currently available to treat or prevent this infection. One promising target to identify new antiviral agents for norovirus is the viral polymerase, which has a pivotal role for the viral replication and lacks closely homologous structures in the host. Starting from the scaffold of a novel class of norovirus polymerase inhibitors recently discovered in our research group with a computer-aided method, different new chemical modifications were designed and carried out, with the aim to identify improved agents effective against norovirus replication in cell-based assays. While different new inhibitors of the viral polymerase were found, a further computer-aided ligand optimisation approach led to the identification of a new antiviral scaffold for norovirus, which inhibits human norovirus replication at low-micromolar concentrations.
Effects of intradialytic exercise on cardiopulmonary capacity in chronic kidney disease: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Andrade Francini Porcher , Rezende Patrícia de Souza , Ferreira Tatiane de Souza , Borba Gabrielle Costa , Müller Alice Mânica , Rovedder Paula Maria Eidt
Published: December 2019

Patients with chronic kidney disease show poorer functional and cardiorespiratory capacity than healthy individuals, and these impairments result in sedentarism. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials on the effects of different intradialytic exercise protocols on cardiopulmonary capacity in chronic kidney disease patients. The primary outcome was peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) and the secondary outcomes were exercise duration and ventilation in the cardiopulmonary test. The quality of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE guidelines. Seven studies with a total of 124 participants met the inclusion criteria. Compared to the non-exercise group, the exercise group improved in mean VO2peak (MD 4.06 [IC 0.81; 7.31]). In a separate analysis according to exercise modality, aerobic exercise plus strength training performed better than aerobic exercise alone (MD 5.28 [IC 3.90; 6.66]). In the exercise group, both exercise tolerance values (MD 3.10 [IC 1.70; 4.51]) and ventilation values in the cardiopulmonary test were better than those of the control group (MD 13.10 [IC 7.12; 19.09]). Thus, intradialytic exercise protocols can improve cardiopulmonary function, exercise tolerance and ventilatory efficiency in chronic kidney disease patients.
AI-powered transmitted light microscopy for functional analysis of live cells
Authors: Kim Dongyoung , Min Yoohong , Oh Jung Min , Cho Yoon-Kyoung
Published: December 2019

Transmitted light microscopy can readily visualize the morphology of living cells. Here, we introduce artificial-intelligence-powered transmitted light microscopy (AIM) for subcellular structure identification and labeling-free functional analysis of live cells. AIM provides accurate images of subcellular organelles; allows identification of cellular and functional characteristics (cell type, viability, and maturation stage); and facilitates live cell tracking and multimodality analysis of immune cells in their native form without labeling.
Brain targeting of 9c,11t-Conjugated Linoleic Acid, a natural calpain inhibitor, preserves memory and reduces Aβ and P25 accumulation in 5XFAD mice
Authors: Binyamin Orli , Nitzan Keren , Frid Kati , Ungar Yael , Rosenmann Hanna , Gabizon Ruth
Published: December 2019

Deregulation of Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) by binding to the activated calpain product p25, is associated with the onset of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), a calpain inhibitor, is a metabolite of Punicic Acid (PA), the main component of Pomegranate seed oil (PSO). We have shown recently that long-term administration of Nano-PSO, a nanodroplet formulation of PSO, delays mitochondrial damage and disease advance in a mouse model of genetic Creutzfeldt Jacob disease (CJD). In this project, we first demonstrated that treatment of mice with Nano-PSO, but not with natural PSO, results in the accumulation of CLA in their brains. Next, we tested the cognitive, biochemical and pathological effects of long-term administration of Nano-PSO to 5XFAD mice, modeling for Alzheimer’s disease. We show that Nano-PSO treatment prevented age-related cognitive deterioration and mitochondrial oxidative damage in 5XFAD mice. Also, brains of the Nano-PSO treated mice presented reduced accumulation of Aβ and of p25, a calpain product, and increased expression of COX IV-1, a key mitochondrial enzyme. We conclude that administration of Nano-PSO results in the brain targeting of CLA, and suggest that this treatment may prevent/delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases, such as AD and CJD.
Author Correction: LSD1 activation promotes inducible EMT programs and modulates the tumour microenvironment in breast cancer
Authors: Boulding T. , McCuaig R. D. , Tan A. , Hardy K. , Wu F. , Dunn J. , Kalimutho M. , Sutton C. R. , Forwood J. K. , Bert A. G. , Goodall G. J. , Malik L. , Yip D. , Dahlstrom J. E. , Zafar A. , Khanna K. K. , Rao S.
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Mechano-chemical stability and water effect on gas selectivity in mixed-metal zeolitic imidazolate frameworks: a systematic investigation from van der Waals corrected density functional theory
Authors: Dang Diem Thi-Xuan , Nguyen Huong Thi-Diem , Thoai Nam , Kuo Jer-Lai , Nguyen Nhung Tuyet Thi , Nguyen-Manh Duc
Published: December 2019

A series of Zn/Cu Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks (ZIFs) ZIF-202, -203, and -204 are systematically investigated by Density Functional Theory (DFT) with and without van der Waals (vdW) corrections.
Influence of catalyst nuclearity on copper-catalyzed aerobic alcohol oxidation
Authors: Krittametaporn Nuttaporn , Chantarojsiri Teera , Virachotikul Arnut , Phomphrai Khamphee , Kuwamura Naoto , Kojima Tatsuhiro , Konno Takumi , Sangtrirutnugul Preeyanuch
Published: December 2019

Trinuclear copper(ii)–triazolyl complexes exhibited higher activities for aerobic alcohol oxidation than the related mononuclear copper(ii) catalyst, most likely due to increased Lewis acidity at copper instead of more reducible copper(ii) centers.
A systematic investigation of structural transformation in a copper pyrazolato system: a case study
Authors: Chen Jing-Huo , Wei Donghui , Yang Guang , Ma Jian-Gong , Cheng Peng
Published: December 2019

The mixed-valence CuI3CuII2(OMe)2pz5 has been isolated as a possible key intermediate in the structural conversion from (CuIpz)3/(CuIpz)4 to cyclic hexanuclear CuII species.
Nanoplastics as a potential environmental health factor: effects of polystyrene nanoparticles on human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells
Authors: Cortés Constanza , Domenech Josefa , Salazar Marcela , Pastor Susana , Marcos Ricard , Hernández Alba
Published: December 2019

Our results show that both nPS are easily internalized by Caco-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, but no relevant toxic effects are observed under the analyzed exposure conditions.
Symposium introduction: the eighth biennial berry health benefits symposium
Authors: Seeram Navindra P. , Burton-Freeman Britt
Published: December 2019

Navindra P. Seeram and Britt Burton-Freeman introduce the Food & Function themed collection on the Berry Health Benefits Symposium.
Shape memory hierarchical AB copolymer networks
Authors: Li Xingjian , Feng Ru , Xu Yahui , Li Yinwen , Zhang Qiang
Published: December 2019

Herein, the novel shape memory hierarchical AB copolymer networks (HAB-CPNs) with heterophase structures were presented, which showed perfect shape fixity and recovery, rapid response, outstanding cycle performance, and high recovery force.
Celebrating 100 years of “polymer science”: Hermann Staudinger's 1920 manifesto
Authors: Frey Holger , Johann Tobias
Published: December 2019

The first translation into English of Hermann Staudinger's seminal 1920 paper ‘On polymerisation’, to mark its 100 year anniversary.
MoS2 nanosheet incorporated α-Fe2O3/ZnO nanocomposite with enhanced photocatalytic dye degradation and hydrogen production ability
Authors: Tama Angkita Mistry , Das Subrata , Dutta Sagar , Bhuyan M. D. I. , Islam M. N. , Basith M. A.
Published: December 2019

Novel few-layer MoS2 nanosheets incorporated α-Fe2O3/ZnO photocatalyst nanocomposite is reported with high dye degradation and hydrogen evolution ability under solar illumination.
Synthesis of MeBmt and related derivatives via syn-selective ATH-DKR
Authors: Rolt Adam , O'Neill Paul M. , Liang T. Jake , Stachulski Andrew V.
Published: December 2019

The unusual α-amino, β-hydroxy acid MeBmt is a key structural feature of cyclosporin A, an important naturally occurring immunosuppressant and antiviral agent. We describe a concise synthesis of MeBmt using the principle of dynamic kinetic resolution.
Oxidative steam reforming of ethanol over MxLa2−xCe1.8Ru0.2O7−δ (M = Mg, Ca) catalysts: effect of alkaline earth metal substitution and support on stability and activity
Authors: Hsieh Ho-Chen , Tsai Ping-Wen , Chang Yuan-Chia , Weng Sheng-Feng , Sheu Hwo-Shuenn , Chuang Yu-Chun , Lee Chi-Shen
Published: December 2019

Alkaline earth metal substitutions on the A-site of pyrochlore oxide MxLa2−xCe1.8Ru0.2O7−δ (M = Mg, Ca) were studied as catalyst materials for oxidative/autothermal steam reforming of ethanol (OSRE/ATR).
Total synthesis of squafosacin F: stereodivergent approach to mono-tetrahydrofuran acetogenins
Authors: Ota Koichiro , Kohno Sumika , Yamashita Tomoko , Miura Atsuko , Kamaike Kazuo , Miyaoka Hiroaki
Published: December 2019

The first total synthesis of squafosacin F was achieved via construction of the hydroxy-flanked mono-tetrahydrofuran by acid-mediated tandem cyclization as a key step.
Shapeshifting molecules: the story so far and the shape of things to come
Authors: Bismillah Aisha N. , Chapin Brette M. , Hussein Burhan A. , McGonigal Paul R.
Published: December 2019

This review describes the synthesis and application of shapeshifting molecules, whose covalent skeletons dynamically reconfigure in response to their surroundings.
Liquid crystal ordering of nucleic acids
Authors: Naskar Supriyo , Saurabh Suman , Jang Yun Hee , Lansac Yves , Maiti Prabal K.
Published: December 2019

The microscopic origin of liquid crystal ordering of short nucleic acids.
Chemically induced splay nematic phase with micron scale periodicity
Authors: Connor Perri L. M. , Mandle Richard J.
Published: December 2019

We find that the splay nematic phase can be chemically induced in binary mixtures of two materials, neither of which exhibits the splay nematic phase in their neat state.
Gate-tunable all-inorganic QLED with enhanced charge injection balance
Authors: Chen Qizhen , Yan Yujie , Wu Xiaomin , Wang Xiumei , Zhang Guocheng , Chen Jinwei , Chen Huipeng , Guo Tailiang
Published: December 2019

A novel gate-tunable all-inorganic QLED is proposed, which exhibits outstanding performance along with excellent stability.
A multidimensional hierarchical structure designed for lateral strain-isolated ultrasensitive pressure sensing
Authors: Li Junyun , Chen Song , Peng Zefei , Deng Zhifu , Xing Shuting , Wu Yaoyi , Liu Shuqi , Liu Lan
Published: December 2019

A brand new multidimensional hierarchical structure (a wrinkle structure in the pre-stretching direction and arch structure in the perpendicular direction) is designed and introduced in strain-isolated ultrasensitive piezoresistive sensing.
Phonomotor Versus Semantic Feature Analysis Treatment for Anomia in 58 Persons With Aphasia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kendall Diane L. , Moldestad Megan Oelke , Allen Wesley , Torrence Janaki , Nadeau Stephen E.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The ultimate goal of anomia treatment should be to achieve gains in exemplars trained in the therapy session, as well as generalization to untrained exemplars and contexts. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of phonomotor treatment, a treatment focusing on enhancement of phonological sequence knowledge, against semantic feature analysis (SFA), a lexical-semantic therapy that focuses on enhancement of semantic knowledge and is well known and commonly used to treat anomia in aphasia.

Method

In a between-groups randomized controlled trial, 58 persons with aphasia characterized by anomia and phonological dysfunction were randomized to receive 56–60 hr of intensively delivered treatment over 6 weeks with testing pretreatment, posttreatment, and 3 months posttreatment termination.

Results

There was no significant between-groups difference on the primary outcome measure (untrained nouns phonologically and semantically unrelated to each treatment) at 3 months posttreatment. Significant within-group immediately posttreatment acquisition effects for confrontation naming and response latency were observed for both groups. Treatment-specific generalization effects for confrontation naming were observed for both groups immediately and 3 months posttreatment; a significant decrease in response latency was observed at both time points for the SFA group only. Finally, significant within-group differences on the Comprehensive Aphasia Test–Disability Questionnaire (
Swinburn, Porter, & Howard, 2004
) were observed both immediately and 3 months posttreatment for the SFA group, and significant within-group differences on the Functional Outcome Questionnaire (
Glueckauf et al., 2003
) were found for both treatment groups 3 months posttreatment.

Discussion

Our results are consistent with those of prior studies that have shown that SFA treatment and phonomotor treatment generalize to untrained words that share features (semantic or phonological sequence, respectively) with the training set. However, they show that there is no significant generalization to untrained words that do not share semantic features or phonological sequence features.
Ethical Decision Making: Coding and Compliance Dilemmas for Speech-Language Pathologists
Authors: Nikjeh Dee Adams
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are nationally credentialed health care professionals with the responsibility to conduct clinical activities and business operations ethically, legally, and with a high level of integrity. What are the ethical and legal responsibilities of being a credentialed professional? This clinical focus article provides an overview of relevant federal laws that govern waste, abuse, and fraudulent billing behaviors and highlights some of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's professional policies that characterize speech-language pathology practice standards, govern professional integrity, and guide ethical decision making. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's 2018 document,
Issues in Ethics: Misrepresentation of Services for Insurance Reimbursement, Funding, or Private Payment
, will be applied to professional coding and compliance dilemmas unique to SLPs who provide and bill for behavioral and qualitative evaluations, instrumental assessments, and therapeutic intervention for individuals with voice and upper airway disorders.

Conclusion

Every practicing SLP has the professional and ethical responsibility to seek the latest information on payment systems, coding changes, and reimbursement updates regardless of practice setting or the population served.
A Preliminary Study Examining Parent Perceptions and Practices in Heritage Language Transmission in Texas
Authors: Taliancich-Klinger Casey L. , Gonzalez Kendra
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this project was to explore characteristics impacting the transmission of a heritage language from a parent to a child from the parent's perspective to better understand challenges that families may face when trying to pass on a heritage language to their children.

Method

In this pilot study, 14 interviews were conducted with individuals who reported they were currently raising or had raised at least 1 child to be able to speak about language transfer practices and beliefs. Participants were interviewed regarding their own language use and proficiency. Participants were asked questions pertaining to their attitudes and their children's attitudes toward their home language. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed for emergent themes related to language transmission and challenges to passing down the heritage language to their child.

Results

Common themes that emerged related to parents passing down their heritage language included the community the families resided in and the parent's proficiency level.

Conclusion

It is important for educators and clinicians to understand how a parent's decision to pass down their language may be impacted by how much community support they experience and how proficient parents are in their heritage language. Implications of these results for educators and caretakers are discussed.
A systematic review of voxelization method in additive manufacturing
Authors: Bacciaglia Antonio , Ceruti Alessandro , Liverani Alfredo
Published: December 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM) is becoming an important alternative to traditional processes. AM technology shows several advantages in literature, and its use increases in aerospace, automotive and biomedicine. Time reduction in design-to-manufacturing cycle, customization, capability to generate complex shapes in one piece and ability to imitate low-weight bio-inspired shapes are the strength of designs based on AM. Due to its potentials, major progresses were done in AM, thanks to technology evolution and increased computational power. With regard to AM, voxelization can be defined as part’s discretization in hexahedral elements, as done with pixels in 2D image. Voxels are used to speed-up geometry and algebraic manipulation thanks to their inherent advantages. This paper analyses advantages and criticalities of AM and voxel manipulation through a systematic literature review methodology. The analyses are based upon the filtering of a huge amount of publications available in literature up to obtaining the most significant 25 studies published in the last 5 years. The study’s main result is the technology gap’s identification, i.e. where AM and voxelization still need improvements, thus providing the reader with suggestions about possible further studies. Computer elaboration power and voxel discretization algorithms are suggested being key issues in AM’s further development.
Evaluation of Phytochemical and Pharmacological Activity of Carissa carandas L. Fruits at Three Different Stages of Maturation
Authors: Saher Shabnam , Narnawre Smita , Patil Jayshree
Published: December 2019

Inflammation plays an important role in various diseases with high prevalence within populations such as rheumatoid arthritis, ulcer, atherosclerosis and asthma. Many drugs are available in the market for inflammatory diseases but they exhibit several unwanted side effects. Therefore, alternative treatments with safer compounds are needed. The plant Carissa carandas L. plant is used traditionally for the treatment of various diseases. Hence to validate its traditional use, the present study has envisaged screening different solvents extract of Carissa carandas fruit for their phytochemical and pharmacological activity especially the anti-inflammatory activity of the fruits at 3 different stages of maturation. The n-hexane and chloroform extracts of immature, mature and ripe fruits showed positive tests for steroids and triterpenoids, whereas acetone extract showed positive tests for steroids, triterpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, sugar, saponins except for triterpenoids in immature fruits. The hydroalcoholic extract showed presence of alkaloids, tannins, sugars, saponin and flavonoids. The highest concentration of phenol, flavonoids and ascorbic acid were found to be more in acetone extract of mature fruits and of carbohydrates in ripe fruits. The hydroalcoholic extract also exhibited similar pattern. The anti-inflammatory property was evaluated by using different models like carrageenan induced paw edema in Wistar rats and cotton pellets induced granuloma. There was a consistent increase in % inhibition of inflammation at concentrations of 100 and 200 mg/kg up to 3 h. The highest activity was at 3 h with 200 mg/kg dose. Thus the present work has clearly proved that the acetone extract of mature fruits have considerable anti-inflammatory activity.
Der Stellenwert der rheumatologischen Rehabilitation im Wandel der Zeit
Authors: Meyer-Olson D. , Gutenbrunner C.
Published: December 2019

Die internistische Rheumatologie gehört erfreulicherweise zu den Fächern der inneren Medizin, welches sowohl durch eine Verbesserung der medikamentösen Therapieoptionen als auch durch ein optimiertes Krankheitsmanagement in den letzten Jahrzehnten deutlich profitieren konnte. Heutzutage ist das Erreichen einer Remission bei den meisten der entzündlich-rheumatischen Erkrankungen keine Seltenheit mehr und die Zeiten aus denen das dem kanadischen Mediziner Sir William Osler zugeschriebene Zitat stammt ‚wenn ein Patient mit Arthritis durch die Vordertür hereinkommt, möchte ich am liebsten aus der Hintertür flüchten‘ sind für die Rheumatologen glücklicherweise vorbei.
Coca-Cola®-Lyse eines Dünndarmileus durch intestinalen Phytobezoar
Authors: Wagner Olga , Markoff Stefan , Schmidt Vera , Petzhold Robert , Barz Robert
Published: December 2019

Primäre intestinale Bezoare sind sehr seltene Passagehindernisse. Die Therapiemöglichkeiten sind chirurgische Resektion, Enzymbehandlung, endoskopische Intervention und Coca-Cola®-Lyse. In der Literatur wird zwar viel über eine erfolgreiche Coca-Cola®-Lyse berichtet, nur wenig jedoch bezüglich Dünndarmobstruktion durch Bezoare. In unserem Fall war weder die chirurgische noch die endoskopische Resektion möglich, weshalb wir uns für eine Coca-Cola®-Lyse entschieden.
Wie Schüler, Eltern und Lehrer das Konzept der Schulgesundheitspflege bewerten
Authors: Tannen Antje , Adam Yvonne
Published: December 2019

Die typischen Tätigkeitsfelder der Gesundheits- und Krankenpflege befinden sich in Krankenhäusern, ambulanten Pflegediensten oder der (teil-)stationären Langzeitpflege. Pflegerische Versorgung inklusive Angebote zur Gesundheitsförderung und Prävention, die unmittelbar in der Lebenswelt von Kindern und Jugendlichen angeboten wird, findet man hierzulande kaum. Ein länderübergreifendes Modellprojekt reagiert auf einen dringenden Versorgungsbedarf und eröffnet neue Berufsfelder für die Pflege.
Automatisierte Zuordnung von ICD- und Alpha-ID-Codes zu „Real-World“-Arztbriefdiagnosen durch die „word2vec“-Methode
Authors: Böhringer Daniel , Lang Stefan J. , Daniel Moritz Claudius , Lapp Thabo , Reinhard Thomas
Published: December 2019

Hintergrund Für eine wissenschaftliche Auswertung von Arztbriefen bedarf es aufgrund unterschiedlicher Terminologien und dem häufigen Gebrauch von Synonymen der Transformation in ein normiertes Codesystem wie bspw. ICD-10 oder Alpha-ID. Das sog. „Word Vector Embedding“ erscheint für die Generierung des dafür erforderlichen Thesaurus geeignet, da hierüber – nach geeignetem Training des zugrunde liegenden neuronalen Netzwerkes – synonyme Diagnosen unabhängig von der Schreibweise automatisch identifiziert werden können.

Methoden Es wurden alle Arztbriefe von insgesamt 50 000 Patienten anonymisiert extrahiert. Diagnosen, die aus mehreren Wörtern bestehen, wurden mittels Phrasenerkennung in Einzelwörter verschmolzen und das „word2vec“-Modell auf dem Textkorpus von 352 Megabytes trainiert. Insgesamt 3742 Diagnosen bzw. ophthalmologische Interventionen wurden aus den Arztbriefen halbautomatisch extrahiert. Die ophthalmologischen ICD- und Alpha-ID-Codes wurden zusammen mit den offiziellen Beschreibungen von der Website des DIMDI heruntergeladen und die ophthalmologischen Diagnosen/Interventionen aus den Arztbriefen mit den jeweils im „word2vec“-Modell nächstgelegenen ICD- und Alpha-ID-Codes automatisiert verknüpft.

Ergebnisse Es wurden von „word2vec“-Modell 90% der Arztbriefdiagnosen den korrekten ICD-10-Codes zugeordnet. Auf Ebene der viel feiner aufgelösten Alpha-ID-Codes betrug die Quote korrekter Zuordnungen nur 76%. Die Interventionen wurden in 92% der korrekten Indikation zugewiesen. Als Fehlerquellen für inkorrekte oder fehlende Zuordnungen wurden seltene Erkrankungen, ungewöhnliche Bezeichnungen und Codedegeneration in der offiziellen DIMDI-Datei identifiziert.

Diskussion Aus „Real-World“-Arztbriefen und der offiziellen Alpha-ID-Datei und lässt sich mit der „word2vec“-Methode ein Diagnosenthesaurus generieren. Dieser könnte, eine geringfügige manuelle Überarbeitung vorausgesetzt, zukünftig für eine automatische Extraktion von Diagnosen aus Arztbriefen verwendet werden.
Kindesmisshandlung: interdisziplinärer Kinderschutz
Authors: Ewert Jo N. , Seifert Dragana
Published: December 2019

Die zunehmende Aufmerksamkeit für das Thema Kindesmisshandlung hat in den letzten Jahren zu grundlegenden Veränderungen geführt. Das Bundeskinderschutzgesetz und die neue S3+-Kinderschutzleitlinie (KSL) der AWMF bieten effektive Mittel gegen den Missbrauch. Fundiertes Wissen über das klinische Bild, die beteiligten Akteure und die Gesetzeslage sind Voraussetzungen, um medizinischen Kinderschutz effektiv gestalten zu können.
Anstieg der Laienreanimationsrate in Deutschland geht mit vermehrter Telefonreanimation einher
Authors: Metelmann Bibiana , Metelmann Camilla , Schneider Lisa , Vollmer Marcus , Fischer Matthias , Bohn Andreas , Wnent Jan , Hahnenkamp Klaus , Brinkrolf Peter
Published: December 2019

Ziel der Studie In der vergangenen Dekade wurden Initiativen zur Erhöhung der Laienreanimationsrate ergriffen. Ist die Rate in den letzten 10 Jahren gestiegen? Ist dies assoziiert mit Veränderungen der Leitstellenleistung?

Methodik Analyse prähospitaler Daten des Deutschen Reanimationsregisters. Einschluss von Fällen aus 19 deutschen Standorten zwischen 2008 und 2017. Ausschluss von Herz-Kreislauf-Stillständen nach Eintreffen des Rettungsdienstes, in Arztpraxen oder Kliniken. Analyse mit Chi-Quadrat-Test und Clopper-Pearson-Konfidenzintervallen.

Ergebnisse Analysiert wurden die Daten von 22 555 Patienten. Die Laienreanimationsrate stieg von 23,4% im Jahr 2008 (606 von 2591, 95%-KI: 21,8 – 25,1%) auf 36,9% im Jahr 2017 (1014 von 2749, 95%-KI: 35,1 – 38,7%) (p < 0,001). Gleichzeitig stieg die telefonische Anleitung von 0,4% (11 von 2591, 95%-KI: 0,2 – 0,8%) auf 24,3% (670 von 2749, 95%-KI: 22,8 – 26,0%) (p < 0,001).

Schlussfolgerung Die Laienreanimationsrate stieg um mehr als 50% bei vermehrter Telefonreanimation und Laienschulung. Ein kausaler Zusammenhang lässt sich nicht belegen.
Protection of Curcumin against Streptozocin-Induced Pancreatic Cell Destruction in T2D Rats
Authors: Qihui Li , Shuntian Deng , Xin Zhou , Xiaoxia Yu , Zhongpei Chen
Published: December 2019

As a kind of traditional Chinese medicine extract, curcumin has been proven to be effective in inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic islet β cells in the streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus rat model, although the underlying mechanism has not yet been clarified. To examine the effect of curcumin on inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic islet β cells, we established a type 2 diabetes rat model by feeding the animals a high-fat diet and intraperitoneally injecting streptozotocin. The curcumin was administered by intraperitoneal injection. The rat body weight, fasting blood glucose, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests, and insulin tolerance tests were recorded and analyzed. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used for morphological analysis, and a TUNEL assay was performed to detect the apoptotic cells. The expression levels of proteins related to oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis were detected by Western blotting and ELISA. Curcumin administration significantly decreased fasting blood glucose and promoted recovery of pancreas function in type 2 diabetes rats. In curcumin-treated rats, the pancreatic tissue destruction and apoptosis index were reduced. The expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, caspase-3, Bax, and malondialdehyde were significantly reduced, and Bcl-2, superoxide dismutase 2, and glutathione peroxidase were significantly increased. Curcumin inhibited the expression of phosphorylated JNK and NF-κB proteins to block the RAGE/JNK/NF-κB signaling pathway. In conclusion, these results indicate that curcumin blocks the phosphorylation of JNK and NF-κB protein to inhibit this signaling pathway, thereby further inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic islet β cells. Curcumin has potential value for the treatment of diabetes.
Antidepressant Effects and Mechanisms of the Total Iridoids of Valeriana jatamansi on the Brain-Gut Axis
Authors: Wang Liwen , Sun Yong , Zhao Tingting , Li Yongbiao , Zhao Xiaoqin , Zhang Li , Wu Lanlan , Zhang Liudai , Zhang Tiane , Wei Guihua , Altamirano Alvin , Tong Yan , Yan Zhiyong
Published: December 2019

Valeriana jatamansi is widely used in Chinese folk medicine and contains iridoids as important active ingredients. The brain-gut axis describes a complex bidirectional system between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Herein, we evaluated the antidepressant effects of total iridoids of Valeriana jatamansi (TIV) and preliminarily investigated the effects of gut microbiota on their antidepressant effects using a chronic, unpredictable mild-stress mouse model. Mice were given 5.7, 11.4, or 22.9 mg/kg TIV for 1 week. Fluoxetine (2.6 mg/kg) served as a positive control. Body weight was measured, and behavioral tests including SPT and TST were applied. Colon pathology was assessed through hematoxylin-eosin staining. Additionally, levels of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), substance P (SP) and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) in the hippocampus and colon were measured by ELISA. In addition, 16SrRNA gene sequencing was performed to explore changes in intestinal microbiota richness and diversity. Our results demonstrated that the model group showed significant depression-like behavior, while the fluoxetine group showed improved depression-like symptoms; after administration, TIV increased body weight, sucrose solution consumption, and ameliorated depression-like behaviors. The overall cell degeneration in colons also improved. In addition, TIV modulated the levels of 5-HT, NE, SP, and CRF expression in the hippocampus and colon. The diversity and richness of gut microbes increased compared to the model group. We therefore conclude that the antidepressant effects of TIV may be related to gut flora structures and regulation of 5-HT, NE, SP, and CRF in the brain and intestine.
Clinical Decision Making Using CTA in Conjoined, Bipedicled DIEP and SIEA for Unilateral Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Cho Min-Jeong , Haddock Nicholas T. , Teotia Sumeet S.
Published: December 2019

Background Using a hemi-abdominal flap for unilateral breast reconstruction in patients may not be ideal due to paucity of abdominal tissue, presence of a lower abdominal midline scar, or a larger and/or ptotic contralateral native breast. Several algorithms exist to make these flaps successful, but all of them require an anastomosis sequence ultimately. In this study, we present our experience with the use of imaging to predict flap dominance and anastomosis sequence to make them consistently successful.

Methods Seventy-five consecutive conjoined, bipedicled abdominal composite free flaps for unilateral breast reconstruction were performed. Preoperative computed tomographic angiography (CTA) was obtained to depict the pattern of perforators, flap dominance, and feasibility for intraflap anastomosis. Patient demographics, type/weights of flaps, number of anastomoses, location of perforators, length/type of pedicles, and flap-related complications were reviewed.

Results Seventy-five patients underwent composite deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) and/or superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flaps. There were 62 DIEP-DIEP flaps, 11 DIEP-SIEA flaps, and two SIEA-SIEA flaps. The mean age was 57 years with an average body mass index of 27 kg/m2 and flap weight of 1,054 g. Thirty-one patients underwent intraflap (41%) and 44 patients underwent crania/caudal anastomoses (59%). In comparison to bilateral DIEPs, the total number of perforators was significantly lower (2.9 vs. 3.8), and fat necrosis rate was lower (2.7 vs. 14.4%) as well.

Conclusion Guided by preoperative CTA imaging, we recommend the consistent use of these conjoined, bipedicled hemi-abdominal flaps for unilateral breast reconstruction, primarily those with delayed reconstruction and radiation deficits. Preoperative CTA imaging is crucial in directing perforator dissection to maximize overlapping perfusion zones and guide in performing anastomoses.
Intermediate-High Risk Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Mirambeaux Rosa , León Francisco , Bikdeli Behnood , Morillo Raquel , Barrios Deisy , Mercedes Edwin , Moores Lisa , Tapson Victor , Yusen Roger D. , Jiménez David
Published: December 2019

Limited information exists about the prevalence, management, and outcomes of intermediate-high risk patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). In a prospective cohort study, we evaluated consecutive patients with intermediate-high risk PE at a large, tertiary, academic medical center between January 1, 2015 and March 31, 2019. Adjudicated outcomes included PE-related mortality and a complicated course through 30 days after initiation of PE treatment. Repeat systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate (HR), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) measurements, and echocardiography were performed within 48 hours after diagnosis. Among 1,015 normotensive patients with acute PE, 97 (9.6%) had intermediate-high risk PE. A 30-day complicated course and 30-day PE-related mortality occurred in 23 (24%) and 7 patients (7.2%) with intermediate-high risk PE. Seventeen (18%) intermediate-high risk patients received reperfusion therapy. Within 48 hours after initiation of anticoagulation, normalization of SBP, HR, cTnI, BNP, and echocardiography occurred in 82, 86, 78, 72, and 33% of survivors with intermediate-high risk PE who did not receive immediate thrombolysis. A complicated course between day 2 and day 30 after PE diagnosis for the patients who normalized SBP, HR, cTnI, BNP, and echocardiography measured at 48 hours occurred in 2.9, 1.4, 4.5, 3.3, and 14.3%, respectively. Intermediate-high risk PE occurs in approximately one-tenth of patients with acute symptomatic PE, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Normalization of HR 48 hours after diagnosis might identify a group of patients with a very low risk of deterioration during the first month of follow-up.
Redox Polymers as Electrode-Active Materials for Batteries
Authors: Esser Birgit
Published: December 2019

Organic cathode materials are promising candidates for a new generation of ‘green batteries’, since they have low toxicity and can be produced from renewable resources or from petroleum. This review shows that organic redox polymers can show excellent battery performance regarding cycling stability and rate capability, and attractive specific capacities are accessible. Radical polymers and redox polymers based on heteroaromatics demonstrate superior rate capabilities and cycling stabilities at fast C-rates as well as high discharge potentials of 3–4 V versus Li/Li+, while quinone- or imide-based polymers deliver high specific capacities of up to 260 mAh g−1 with stable cycling at moderate C-rates and lower discharge potentials. This review article highlights the underlying design principles showcasing selected examples of well-performing redox polymers.
Segmental Arterial Mediolysis: A Vasculitis Mimic
Authors: Bilal Saira , Alkhatib Ayad , Solow E. Blair , Kalva Sanjeeva P.
Published: December 2019

Background Segmental arterial mediolysis (SAM) is a rare noninflammatory vasculopathy. The purpose of this report is to describe the clinical data of six patients diagnosed with SAM, discuss key elements for diagnosis, and highlight the differences between SAM and vasculitis. We also propose a modification to the criteria developed by Kalva et al for the diagnosis of SAM.

Methods This is a retrospective study approved by the Institutional Review Board and included patients diagnosed with SAM between January 2008 and December 2016. Eleven patients were identified, of whom six (four males with a median age of 59.5 years) had complete data per the guidelines proposed by Kalva et al and were thus included. Data on patient’s clinical presentation, laboratory and imaging findings, and outcomes were collected.

Results Presenting symptoms included abdominal pain, flank pain, and bloody stools. Five patients had negative antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) and one had positive ANAs with negative subserologies. C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were normal except for an elevated CRP in two patients with organ infarction. The superior mesenteric and renal arteries were most commonly involved. The most common vascular abnormalities were dissection, pseudoaneurysm, thrombosis, and wall thickening. Two patients received endovascular repair for hepatic artery aneurysms. During the follow-up (range: 3–36 months), two patients developed a new aneurysm or dissection.

Conclusion The long-term prognosis of SAM appears to be favorable. Vascular intervention is only needed for patients with impending vascular compromise. We propose that the criteria developed by Kalva et al could be modified to include patients with elevated ANA but negative subserologies and elevated CRP and ESR in the presence of organ infarction.
Influence of post-deposition selenization and cadmium chloride assisted grain enhancement on electronic properties of cadmium selenide thin films
Authors: Bagheri Behrang , Kottokkaran Ranjith , Poly Laila-Parvin , Reichert Ben , Sharikadze Saba , Noack Max , Dalal Vikram
Published: December 2019

We report on the growth, grain enhancement, doping, and electron mobility of cadmium selenide (CdSe) thin films deposited using the thermal evaporation method. The optical measurement shows CdSe is a direct bandgap material with an optical bandgap (Egap) of 1.72 eV. CdSe thin films were deposited on fluorine doped tin oxide glass substrates with different thicknesses, and grain size and mobility were measured on the films. CdCl2 was deposited on the films, and the films were subjected to high temperature treatment for several hours. It was found that both grain sizes increased significantly after CdCl2 treatment. The mobility of electrons was measured using the space charge limited current technique, and it was found that the mobility increased significantly after CdCl2 treatment. It was discovered that postdeposition selenization further improved the electrical properties of CdSe thin films by increasing the electron mobility-lifetime product and the photo/dark conductivity ratio. CdSe films after postselenization also showed significantly lower values for midgap states and Urbach energies for valence band tail states.