bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ruthenium-catalysed one-pot regio- and diastereoselective synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]indoles via cascade C–H functionalization/annulation
Authors: Singh Sukhdev , Butani Himanshu H. , Vachhani Dipak D. , Shah Anamik , Van der Eycken Erik V.
Published: September 2017

Catalytic, regioselective and diastereoselective synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]indoles through a cascade C–H activation and cyclization process.
Polymorphism of the quasiracemate d-2-aminobutyric acid:l-norvaline
Authors: Smets M. M. H. , Kalkman E. , Tinnemans P. , Krieger A. M. , Meekes H. , Cuppen H. M.
Published: September 2017

A new polymorphic quasiracemate d-2-aminobutyric acid:l-norvaline has been discovered and its reversible single-crystal-to-single-crystal phase transition has been studied using XRD, DSC and thermal microscopy. The low temperature form I is fully ordered, while form II shows two conformations for l-norvaline with a 50/50 occupancy.
The impact of hydrogen bonding on 100% photo-switching in solid-state nitro–nitrito linkage isomers
Authors: Hatcher Lauren E. , Raithby Paul R.
Published: September 2017

Temperature-regulated control of photo-induced linkage isomer switching engineered through intermolecular hydrogen bonding to the nitro-(η1-NO2) group.
First-principles calculations of oxygen interstitials in corundum: a site symmetry approach
Authors: Evarestov Robert A. , Platonenko Alexander , Gryaznov Denis , Zhukovskii Yuri F. , Kotomin Eugene A.
Published: September 2017

Site symmetry analysis allows one to define four possible spatial configurations for inserting O atoms into the α-Al2O3 crystalline lattice.
Ordering and phase separation in Gd-doped ceria: a combined DFT, cluster expansion and Monte Carlo study
Authors: Žguns Pjotrs A. , Ruban Andrei V. , Skorodumova Natalia V.
Published: September 2017

Ordering of dopants and oxygen vacancies is studied for Gd-doped ceria (xGd ≤ 0.25) by means of a combined density functional theory (DFT) and cluster expansion approach, where the cluster interactions derived from DFT calculations are further used in Monte Carlo simulations.
Exploration of the forbidden regions of the Ramachandran plot (ϕ-ψ) with QTAIM
Authors: Momen Roya , Azizi Alireza , Wang Lingling , Ping Yang , Xu Tianlv , Kirk Steven R. , Li Wenxuan , Manzhos Sergei , Jenkins Samantha
Published: September 2017

Left: Responseβis defined as:β= arccos(e̲2·y̲) withβ* = arccos(e̲1·y̲). Right: QTAIM interpreted Ramachandran plots {(βϕ,βϕ*)-(βψ,βψ*)} ‘-’ is a hyphen and not a subtraction sign. Pale green and dark green crosses indicate the glycine, pink and red pluses represent the remaining amino acids (a.a.) in the magainin peptide structure.
Diffusion of single dye molecules in hydrated TiO2 mesoporous films
Authors: Angiolini Juan F. , Stortz Martín , Steinberg Paula Y. , Mocskos Esteban , Bruno Luciana , Soler-Illia Galo , Angelomé Paula C. , Wolosiuk Alejandro , Levi Valeria
Published: September 2017

Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) shows how the pore dimensions of thin and hydrated TiO2 mesoporous calcined films modulate the diffusion of molecules across the pore network.
Solar cells with PbS quantum dot sensitized TiO2–multiwalled carbon nanotube composites, sulfide-titania gel and tin sulfide coated C-fabric
Authors: Kokal Ramesh K. , Deepa Melepurath , Kalluri Ankarao , Singh Shrishti , Macwan Isaac , Patra Prabir K. , Gilarde Jeff
Published: September 2017

Novel approaches to boost quantum dot solar cell (QDSC) efficiencies are in demand.
Inversion of the 11Buand 21Agelectronic states of all-trans-1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene in carbon disulfide
Authors: Catalán Javier
Published: September 2017

From the analysis of UV/Vis absorption spectra, emission and excitation emission spectra of solutions of all-trans-1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) in carbon disulfide, we can conclude that these spectra do not support the inversion of excited electronic states in DPH by an increased solvent polarizability as proposed by Kohler and Itoh.
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for photocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Chen Yi , Wang Dengke , Deng Xiaoyu , Li Zhaohui
Published: September 2017

This review summarized the recent progress, limitations and challenges in using MOFs for photocatalytic CO2 reduction, a green and sustainable strategy for CO2 utilization.
Supercapacitor performance of perovskite La1−xSrxMnO3
Authors: Lang Xueqin , Mo Haiyang , Hu Xiaoying , Tian Hongwei
Published: September 2017

Sr-doped perovskite manganite La1−xSrxMnO3 materials, which are composed of nanoparticles, possess a meso-scale porous structure with superior electrochemical properties under the mechanism of oxygen intercalation.
Amino- and chloro-8-hydroxyquinolines and their copper complexes as proteasome inhibitors and antiproliferative agents
Authors: Oliveri Valentina , Lanza Valeria , Milardi Danilo , Viale Maurizio , Maric Irena , Sgarlata Carmelo , Vecchio Graziella
Published: September 2017

5-Aminomethyl-8-hydroquinoline and its copper(ii) complex look very promising in inhibiting cell growth and proteasome activity.
Energy efficient Pfitzinger reaction: a novel strategy using a surfactant catalyst
Authors: More Priyanka A. , Shankarling Ganapati S.
Published: September 2017

A novel ultrasound assisted synthetic route catalysed by a surfactant for the synthesis of quinolone-4-carboxylic acid.
Monodisperse core–shell melamine–formaldehyde polymer-modified silica microspheres prepared using a facile microwave-assisted method
Authors: Liu Houmei , Liu Tianhang , Takafuji Makoto , Qiu Hongdeng , Ihara Hirotaka
Published: September 2017

A facile microwave-assisted synthesis method for the preparation of monodisperse core–shell melamine–formaldehyde (MF)-modified silica resin microspheres (SiO2@MF) was developed.
Synthesis of 5,5′-azoxybistetrazole via nitration and de-oxygen rearrangement of triazene
Authors: Wang Qi , Lu Tian , Wang Chenbin , Fan Guijuan , Yin Hongquan , Chen Fu-Xue
Published: September 2017

An unusual transformation of tetrazole triazene into 5,5′-azoxybistetrazole by a sequential treatment with fuming nitric acid and acetyl anhydride.
Nanostructured metal–organic frameworks, TMU-4, TMU-5, and TMU-6, as novel adsorbents for solid phase microextraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Amanzadeh Hatam , Yamini Yadollah , Masoomi Mohammad Yaser , Morsali Ali
Published: September 2017

Zn(ii) based metal–organic frameworks were coated onto stainless steel wire and applied to the headspace solid phase microextraction of PAHs.
Analytical, numerical, and experimental studies of viscoelastic effects on the performance of soft piezoelectric nanocomposites
Authors: Li Jing , Zhu Zhiren , Fang Lichen , Guo Shu , Erturun Ugur , Zhu Zeyu , West James E. , Ghosh Somnath , Kang Sung Hoon
Published: September 2017

Our findings open new opportunities to enhance performance of soft energy harvesters and sensors by harnessing viscoelasticity of piezoelectric nanocomposites.
Electromagnetic screening in soft conducting composite-containing ferrites: the key role of size and shape anisotropy
Authors: Biswas Sourav , Arief Injamamul , Panja Sujit S. , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: September 2017

We explored a facile bottom-up synthetic procedure to fabricate different shapes and size controlled Fe3O4 nanoparticles and showed the effect of shape anisotropy and size on the EM shielding properties.
Comparative intestinal bacteria-associated pharmacokinetics of 16 components of Shengjiang Xiexin decoction between normal rats and rats with irinotecan hydrochloride (CPT-11)-induced gastrointestinal toxicity in vitro using salting-out sample preparation and LC-MS/MS
Authors: Guan Huanyu , Wang Xiaoming , Wang Shiping , He Yang , Yue Jiajing , Liao Shanggao , Huang Yuanda , Shi Yue
Published: September 2017

Comparative intestinal bacteria-associated pharmacokinetics of SXD components between normal and model rats in vitro using salting-out preparation and LC-MS/MS.
Enhancement of mechanical properties of polymeric nanofibers by controlling crystallization behavior using a simple freezing/thawing process
Authors: Lee Hoik , Yamaguchi Kyohei , Nagaishi Tomoki , Murai Masaaki , Kim Myungwoong , Wei Kai , Zhang Ke-Qin , Kim Ick Soo
Published: September 2017

We demonstrate the modulation of physical and mechanical properties by controlling crystallinity in cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers using a simple and straightforward freezing/thawing process.
Self-assembly of biosurfactant–inorganic hybrid nanoflowers as efficient catalysts for degradation of cationic dyes
Authors: Jiao Jianmei , Xin Xia , Wang Xingang , Xie Zengchun , Xia Congxin , Pan Wei
Published: September 2017

The scheme of recycling of nanoflowers as an efficient catalyst for degradation of MB.
Fabrication of poly(ε-caprolactone) tissue engineering scaffolds with fibrillated and interconnected pores utilizing microcellular injection molding and polymer leaching
Authors: Huang An , Jiang Yongchao , Napiwocki Brett , Mi Haoyang , Peng Xiangfang , Turng Lih-Sheng
Published: September 2017

Three-dimensional fibrillated interconnected porous poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffolds were prepared by microcellular injection molding and polymer leaching.
Preparation of MgO nanocrystals and catalytic mechanism on phenol ozonation
Authors: Wang Bing , Xiong Xingaoyuan , Ren Hongyang , Huang ZhiYu
Published: September 2017

The prepared magnesium oxide catalyzes the ozonation process using its surface hydroxyl groups alone, and does not involve a change of activation energy.
Perchlorate ion doped polypyrrole coated ZnS sphere composites as a sodium-ion battery anode with superior rate capability enhanced by pseudocapacitance
Authors: Hou Tianyi , Tang Guojie , Sun Xiaohong , Cai Shu , Zheng Chunming , Hu Wenbin
Published: September 2017

ClO4−doped polypyrrole coating acts as a conductive buffer layer maintaining the structure integrity and provides extra specific capacity.
A cellulose-based hybrid 2D material aerogel for a flexible all-solid-state supercapacitor with high specific capacitance
Authors: Lv Yanyan , Li Lei , Zhou Yi , Yu Miao , Wang Jianquan , Liu Jianxin , Zhou Jiagui , Fan Zongqing , Shao Ziqiang
Published: September 2017

A new type of cellulose-based hybrid 2D material aerogel flexible all-solid-state supercapacitor with a high specific capacitance of 916.42 F g−1.
An unmodified graphene foam chemical sensor based on SVM for discrimination of chemical molecules with broad selectivity
Authors: Yue Weiwei , Hua Hongling , Tian Yanli , Li Jianing , Jiang Shouzhen , Tang Caiyan , Xu Shicai , Ma Yong , Ren Junfeng , Bai Chengjie
Published: September 2017

Compared to conventional chemical sensors, this paper presented a chemical sensor system with broad selectivity for a variety of molecules without any surface modification.
Cyanobenzene-containing tetraphenylethene derivatives with aggregation-induced emission and self-recovering mechanofluorochromic characteristics
Authors: Zhao Fei , Fan Congbin , Chen Zhao , Liu Gang , Pu Shouzhi
Published: September 2017

Two AIE-active constitutional isomers were synthesized. Interestingly, mechanofluorochromic behaviors of the two luminogens were self-reversible within 10 minutes.
Adsorption sensitivity of graphane decorated with B, N, S, and Al towards HCN: a first-principles study
Authors: Zhou Qingxiao , Ju Weiwei , Su Xiangying , Yong Yongliang , Li Xiaohong , Fu Zhibing , Wang Chaoyang
Published: September 2017

The geometric structure, adsorption energy, electronic structure, and magnetic properties of hydrogenated graphene (graphane) with the adsorption of a HCN molecule were investigated by first-principles calculations.
Facile synthesis of hierarchical porous carbon derived from carboxyl graphene oxide/phenolic foam for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Li Xiaozheng , Li Xi , Zhou Jian , Dong Yulin , Xie Zhizhong , Cai Weiquan , Zhang Chaocan
Published: September 2017

Hierarchical porous carbon materials were prepared using a facile and low-cost method from phenolic resin and carboxyl graphene oxide by foaming and carbonization and exhibited an excellent capacitive performance.
The N-allyl substituted effect on wormlike micelles and salt tolerance of a C22-tailed cationic surfactant
Authors: Wang Pengxiang , Kang Wanli , Yang Hongbin , Zhao Yilu , Yin Xia , Zhu Zhou , Zhang Xiangfeng
Published: September 2017

The N-allyl substituted effect on wormlike micelles and salt tolerance of a C22-tailed cationic surfactant is investigated.
Limits to the rate of oxygen transport in mixed-conducting oxides
Authors: De Souza Roger A.
Published: September 2017

Chemically reasonable limits to the rates of oxygen tracer diffusion and oxygen surface exchange in acceptor-doped oxides are examined.
Electrospun cross-linked carbon nanofiber films as free-standing and binder-free anodes with superior rate performance and long-term cycling stability for sodium ion storage
Authors: Guo Xu , Zhang Xiaoting , Song Huaihe , Zhou Jisheng
Published: September 2017

A novel cross-linking strategy is proposed to design electrospun carbon nanofiber films towards free-standing and binder-free electrodes for sodium-ion storage.
Hierarchical NiS/N-doped carbon composite hollow spheres with excellent supercapacitor performance
Authors: Liu Tao , Jiang Chuanjia , Cheng Bei , You Wei , Yu Jiaguo
Published: September 2017

The synthesized NiS nanosheets anchored on N-doped hollow carbon spheres (NHCSs) exhibit excellent electrochemical performance as electrode materials for supercapacitors.
Preparation of highly ordered mesoporous ethane–silicas under weakly acidic conditions and their hydrothermal stability
Authors: Choi Eunji , Cho Eun-Bum , Jaroniec Mietek
Published: September 2017

Highly ordered mesoporous ethane–silicas were prepared in the presence of a PEO–PLGA–PEO triblock copolymer template using HCl, FeCl3·6H2O, and B(OH)3acidic catalysts and their hydrothermal stability was investigated in a closed aqueous system at 373 K for 4 weeks.
Anthracene-assisted inverse transport growth and superconductivity at 3.3 K in unsupported ultrathin {110} Nb and {0001} NbSe2nanoplates
Authors: Li Jian-Min , Fang Jie
Published: September 2017

High-quality ultrathin {0001} NbSe2and {110} Nb nanoplatesviaanthracene vapor-assisted hierarchical collapse of constituent NbSe2.
Audiometric Testing With Pulsed, Steady, and Warble Tones in Listeners With Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
Authors: Lentz Jennifer J. , Walker Matthew A. , Short Ciara E. , Skinner Kimberly G.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This study evaluated the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's recommendation that audiometric testing for patients with tinnitus should use pulsed or warble tones. Using listeners with varied audiometric configurations and tinnitus statuses, we asked whether steady, pulsed, and warble tones yielded similar audiometric thresholds, and which tone type was preferred.

Method

Audiometric thresholds (octave frequencies from 0.25–16 kHz) were measured using steady, pulsed, and warble tones in 61 listeners, who were divided into 4 groups on the basis of hearing and tinnitus status. Participants rated the appeal and difficulty of each tone type on a 1–5 scale and selected a preferred type.

Results

For all groups, thresholds were lower for warble than for pulsed and steady tones, with the largest effects above 4 kHz. Appeal ratings did not differ across tone type, but the steady tone was rated as more difficult than the warble and pulsed tones. Participants generally preferred pulsed and warble tones.

Conclusions

Pulsed tones provide advantages over steady and warble tones for patients regardless of hearing or tinnitus status. Although listeners preferred pulsed and warble tones to steady tones, pulsed tones are not susceptible to the effects of off-frequency listening, a consideration when testing listeners with sloping audiograms.
Giant increase in piezoelectric coefficient of AlN by Mg-Nb simultaneous addition and multiple chemical states of Nb
Authors: Uehara Masato , Shigemoto Hokuto , Fujio Yuki , Nagase Toshimi , Aida Yasuhiro , Umeda Keiichi , Akiyama Morito
Published: September 2017

Aluminum nitride (AlN) is one of piezoelectric materials, which are eagerly anticipated for use in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) applications such as communication resonators, sensors, and energy harvesters. AlN is particularly excellent in generated voltage characteristics for the MEMS rather than oxide piezoelectric materials such as lead zirconium titanate Pb(Zr, Ti)O3. However, it is necessary to improve the piezoelectric properties of AlN in order to advance the performance of the MEMS. We dramatically increased the piezoelectric coefficient d33 of AlN films by simultaneously adding magnesium (Mg) and niobium (Nb). The d33 of Mg39.3Nb25.0Al35.7N is 22 pC/N, which is about four times that of AlN. The d33 is increased by Mg and Nb simultaneous addition, and is not increased by Mg or Nb single addition. Interestingly, the Nb has multiple chemical states, and which are influenced by the Mg concentration.
The parameter uncertainty inflation fallacy
Authors: Pernot Pascal
Published: September 2017

Statistical estimation of the prediction uncertainty of physical models is typically hindered by the inadequacy of these models due to various approximations they are built upon. The prediction errors caused by model inadequacy can be handled either by correcting the model’s results or by adapting the model’s parameter uncertainty to generate prediction uncertainties representative, in a way to be defined, of model inadequacy errors. The main advantage of the latter approach (thereafter called PUI, for Parameter Uncertainty Inflation) is its transferability to the prediction of other quantities of interest based on the same parameters. A critical review of implementations of PUI in several areas of computational chemistry shows that it is biased, in the sense that it does not produce prediction uncertainty bands conforming to model inadequacy errors.
Femtosecond pulsed laser deposition of nanostructured TiO2 films in atmosphere
Authors: Gao Bingpan , Zhang Shengkong , Ju Xuewei , Lin Yanzhang , Wang Xiangfeng
Published: September 2017

Nanostructured TiO2 films were grown on a monocrystalline silicon substrate by a femtosecond pulsed laser ablating a Ti target in atmosphere without a vacuum chamber. FESEM and XPS results showed that the TiO2 nanomaterials prepared by this method have a fluffy structure composed of nanoparticles which have a particle size in the range of 1-100 nm, resulting in a high specific surface area of 88.6 m2/g. XRD results showed that the deposited films have a composited phase which is composed of anatase, rutile and amorphous TiO2. The reason for the formation of this nanostructure is mainly because of the collision with gas molecules and oxidation reaction of Ti ions. The method may be used to prepare other metal oxide nanostructured films.
Constraint Ornstein-Uhlenbeck bridges
Authors: Mazzolo Alain
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we study the Ornstein-Uhlenbeck bridge process (i.e., the Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process conditioned to start and end at fixed points) constraints to have a fixed area under its path. We present both anticipative (in this case, we need the knowledge of the future of the path) and non-anticipative versions of the stochastic process. We obtain the anticipative description thanks to the theory of generalized Gaussian bridges while the non-anticipative representation comes from the theory of stochastic control. For this last representation, a stochastic differential equation is derived which leads to an effective Langevin equation. Finally, we extend our theoretical findings to linear bridge processes.
Entanglement and co-tunneling of two equivalent protons in hydrogen bond pairs
Authors: Smedarchina Zorka , Siebrand Willem , Fernández-Ramos Antonio
Published: September 2017

A theoretical study is reported of a system of two identical symmetric hydrogen bonds, weakly coupled such that the two mobile protons can move either separately (stepwise) or together (concerted). It is modeled by two equivalent quartic potentials interacting through dipolar and quadrupolar coupling terms. The tunneling Hamiltonian has two imaginary modes (reaction coordinates) and a potential with a single maximum that may turn into a saddle-point of second order and two sets of (inequivalent) minima. Diagonalization is achieved via a modified Jacobi-Davidson algorithm. From this Hamiltonian the mechanism of proton transfer is derived. To find out whether the two protons move stepwise or concerted, a new tool is introduced, based on the distribution of the probability flux in the dividing plane of the transfer mode. While stepwise transfer dominates for very weak coupling, it is found that concerted transfer (co-tunneling) always occurs, even when the coupling vanishes since the symmetry of the Hamiltonian imposes permanent entanglement on the motions of the two protons. We quantify this entanglement and show that, for a wide range of parameters of interest, the lowest pair of states of the Hamiltonian represents a perfect example of highly entangled quantum states in continuous variables. The method is applied to the molecule porphycene for which the observed tunneling splitting is calculated in satisfactory agreement with experiment, and the mechanism of double-proton tunneling is found to be predominantly concerted. We show that, under normal conditions, when they are in the ground state, the two porphycene protons are highly entangled, which may have interesting applications. The treatment also identifies the conditions under which such a system can be handled by conventional one-instanton techniques.
The relevance of first language attrition to theories of bilingual development
Authors: Schmid Monika S. , Köpke Barbara
Published: September 2017

Research on second language acquisition and bilingual development strongly suggests that when a previously monolingual speaker becomes multilingual, the different languages do not exist in isolation: they are closely linked, dependent on each other, and there is constant interaction between these different knowledge systems. Theoretical frameworks of bilingual development acknowledge this insofar as they usually draw heavily on evidence of how the native language influences subsequent languages, and how and to what degree this influence can eventually be overcome. The fact that such crosslinguistic transfer is not a one-way street, and that the native language is similarly influenced by later learned languages, on the other hand, is often disregarded.

We review the evidence on how later learned languages can re-shape the L1 in the immediate and the longer term and demonstrate how such phenomena may be used to inform, challenge and validate theoretical approaches of bilingual development.
Isolation and characterization of key contributors to the “kokumi” taste in soybean seeds
Authors: Shibata Masayuki , Hirotsuka Motohiko , Mizutani Yukiko , Takahashi Haruya , Kawada Teruo , Matsumiya Kentaro , Hayashi Yukako , Matsumura Yasuki
Published: September 2017

The water extract of soybean seeds (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is nearly tasteless, but “kokumi” taste sensation was confirmed upon addition of a basic umami solution containing glutamic acid, inosine monophosphate, and sodium chloride. To identify the key contributors to the “kokumi” taste sensation in soybean seeds, sensory-guided fractionation, taste sensory analyses, and LC–MS/MS analyses were utilized. γ-glutamyl-tyrosine and γ-glutamyl-phenylalanine were identified as contributors to “kokumi taste”; specifically, these γ-glutamyl peptides imparted the “kokumi” taste sensation at a low taste threshold in a basic umami solution. Raffinose and stachyose, which are sufficiently present in soybean seeds, exhibited a synergistic effect in regard to the enhanced “kokumi” taste sensation of γ-glutamyl peptides. This is the first report that the combined use of γ-glutamyl peptides and oligosaccharides can increase the “kokumi” intensity, which suggests that soybean extracts or soymilk can be used to enhance the “kokumi” taste sensation in food products.
Doubly robust nonparametric inference on the average treatment
effect
Authors: Benkeser D , Carone M , Laan M J Van Der , Gilbert P B
Published: September 2017

Doubly robust estimators are widely used to draw inference about the average effect of a treatment. Such estimators are consistent for the effect of interest if either one of two nuisance parameters is consistently estimated. However, if flexible, data-adaptive estimators of these nuisance parameters are used, double robustness does not readily extend to inference. We present a general theoretical study of the behaviour of doubly robust estimators of an average treatment effect when one of the nuisance parameters is inconsistently estimated. We contrast different methods for constructing such estimators and investigate the extent to which they may be modified to also allow doubly robust inference. We find that while targeted minimum loss-based estimation can be used to solve this problem very naturally, common alternative frameworks appear to be inappropriate for this purpose. We provide a theoretical study and a numerical evaluation of the alternatives considered. Our simulations highlight the need for and usefulness of these approaches in practice, while our theoretical developments have broad implications for the construction of estimators that permit doubly robust inference in other problems.
Fine-tuning the Predictive Model for Proximal Junctional Failure in Surgically Treated Patients With Adult Spinal Deformity
Authors: Yagi Mitsuru , Fujita Nobuyuki , Okada Eijiro , Tsuji Osahiko , Nagoshi Narihito , Asazuma Takashi , Ishii Ken , Nakamura Masaya , Matsumoto Morio , Watanabe Kota
Published: September 2017

Study Design.

Multicenter retrospective study.

Objective.

To validate and improve the predictive model for proximal junctional failure (PJF) with or without the bone mineral density (BMD) score.

Summary of Background Data.

PJF is a serious complication of surgery for adult spinal deformity (ASD). A predictive model for PJF was recently reported that has good accuracy, but does not include BMD, a known PJF risk factor, as a variable.

Methods.

We included 145 surgically treated ASD patients who were older than 50 at the time of surgery and had been followed up for at least 2 years. Variables included age, sex, body mass index (BMI), fusion level, upper and lower instrumented vertebral (UIV and LIV) level, primary or revision surgery, pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO), Schwab-SRS type, and BMD. PJF was defined as a ≥ 20° increase from baseline (immediately postoperative) of the proximal junctional angle with concomitant deterioration of at least 1 SRS-Schwab sagittal modifier grade, or any proximal junctional kyphosis requiring revision. Decision-making trees were constructed using the C5.0 algorithm with 10 different bootstrapped models, and validated by a 7:3 data split for training and testing; 112 patients were categorized as training and 33 as testing samples.

Results.

PJF incidence was 20% in the training samples. Univariate analyses showed that BMD, BMI, pelvic tilt (PT), UIV level, and LIV level were PJF risk factors. Our predictive model was 100% accurate in the testing samples with an AUC of 1.0, indicating excellent fit. The best predictors were (strongest to weakest): PT, BMD, LIV level (pelvis), UIV level (lower thoracic), PSO, global alignment, BMI, pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis, and age.

Conclusion.

A successful model was developed for predicting PJF that included BMD. Our model could inform physicians about patients with a high risk of developing PJF in the perioperative period.

Level of Evidence: 4
Novel Modality for Neck Rejuvenation: A Prospective Multicenter Trial of Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation of the Cervical Branch of the Facial Nerve
Authors: Rivlin Daniel , Skinner D. Ryan , Steinmetz-Rodriguez Christina Y. , Fabrikant Jordan S. , Stoddard Marie A. , So Jeffrey J. , Solomon Shauntell J. , Moy Ronald L.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Neck rejuvenation offers few modalities of treatments limited to either invasive plastic surgery or temporary neuromodulation using botulinum toxin.

OBJECTIVE

To access the efficacy, longevity, and safety of percutaneous monopolar radiofrequency (RF) ablation of the cervical branch of the facial nerve innervating the platysma for neck rejuvenation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective, multicenter trial enrolled 19 adult patients with noticeable platysmal banding at 2 different centers. All patients underwent RF ablation on the cervical branch of the facial nerve. Response was assessed immediately after treatment and then at 1, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after the procedure using photography. Masked investigators compared baseline photography and follow-up intervals to evaluate the results.

RESULTS

Seventeen of the 18 patients had improvement in the platysmal banding. One patient was disqualified after ablation. Long-term sequalae such as scarring, burns, ulceration, hypopigmentation, or hyperpigmentation were not reported.

CONCLUSION

The results of this multicenter study support that RF ablation of the cervical branch of the facial nerve is a novel technique that results in improvement of platysmal banding. This technique is an emerging alternative, nonsurgical option for neck rejuvenation that is relatively safe, with little downtime for the patient.
ATX-101 (Deoxycholic Acid Injection) Treatment in Men: Insights From Our Clinical Experience
Authors: Shridharani Sachin M. , Behr Kathleen L.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Excess submental fat (SMF), also called a double chin, is an area of concern for men that can be addressed clinically. ATX-101 (deoxycholic acid injection; Kybella in the United States and Belkyra in Canada, Australia, and various European countries) is the first injectable approved for reduction of SMF.

OBJECTIVE

To share the authors' clinical experience using ATX-101 in men with submental fullness and offer insights regarding how this treatment may be presented to men as an option to improve their submental profile.

METHODS

Retrospective review of the authors' medical records for male patients treated with ATX-101.

RESULTS

To allow for fewer ATX-101 treatments, it is recommended that a large surface area be treated at the first session. The positive changes and outcomes achieved with ATX-101 build confidence between the physician and patient, which often leads to male patients seeking other aesthetic treatments to improve their overall appearance.

CONCLUSION

ATX-101 treatment is often an effective introduction to aesthetic medicine for men.
Neuroprotective effects of coenzyme Q10 on paraquat-induced Parkinson’s disease in experimental animals
Authors: Attia Hanan Naeim , Maklad Yousreya Aly
Published: September 2017

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects ∼1–2% of the elderly population. Development of a neuroprotective therapy that may be initiated early in the course of the disease to retard/prevent disease progression is highly desirable. This study aimed to investigate prophylactic treatment with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) before paraquat (PQ) exposure, a herbicide known to increase the risk for PD, to attain neuroprotection. In addition, therapeutic intervention with CoQ10 in mice already exposed to PQ (24 h) might halt ongoing neurodegeneration and behavioural deterioration. PD was induced experimentally in mice by an injection of PQ (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), twice a week for 3 consecutive weeks, either before or after the initiation of treatment with CoQ10 (200 mg/kg). The results of the sustained supplementation with CoQ10, prophylactically and therapeutically, were compared with l-DOPA (100 mg/kg). A battery of behavioural tests was performed, in addition to estimation of protein carbonyl in the brain. CoQ10 elicited a remarkable improvement in most of the behavioural tests and decreased protein carbonyl content in the brain, particularly when it was initiated before rather than after PQ induction of PD. Therefore, CoQ10, which protects against mitochondrial damage, may be beneficial in slowing the progression of PD, particularly when initiated as prophylactic treatment.
Medical comorbidity in polycystic ovary syndrome with special focus on cardiometabolic, autoimmune, hepatic and cancer diseases: an updated review
Authors: Glintborg Dorte , Andersen Marianne
Published: September 2017

Purpose of review

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is defined by hyperandrogenism, irregular menses and polycystic ovaries when other causes are excluded. The possible implication of increased morbidity in PCOS for screening and follow-up is uncertain and is reviewed in this article.

Recent findings

The increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in PCOS is closely associated with BMI. Women with PCOS should be screened for the elements of the metabolic syndrome upon diagnosis. Measurement of HbA1c and the lipid accumulation product could be important tools to differentiate women with high metabolic risk. The immune function in PCOS is impaired with increased secretion of autoantibodies and increased risk of type 1 diabetes, asthma and thyroid disease. The occurrence of thyroid disease could be modified by BMI and D-vitamin status. Screening for diabetes and thyroid disease is part of routine evaluation for endocrine diseases at baseline in PCOS, whereas the necessity of prospective screening for thyroid disease awaits future studies. Especially obese women with PCOS are at an increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, gall bladder disease and endometrial cancer.

Recent data support that screening and follow-up in patients with PCOS should be stratified according to BMI.
Blood Supply to the Integument of the Abdomen of the Rat: A Surgical Perspective
Authors: Casal Diogo , Pais Diogo , Iria Inês , Videira Paula A. , Mota-Silva Eduarda , Alves Sara , Mascarenhas-Lemos Luís , Pen Cláudia , Vassilenko Valentina , Goyri-O’Neill João
Published: September 2017

Background:

Many fundamental questions regarding the blood supply to the integument of the rat remain to be clarified, namely the degree of homology between rat and humans. The aim of this work was to characterize in detail the macro and microvascular blood supply to the integument covering the ventrolateral aspect of the abdominal wall of the rat.

Methods:

Two hundred five Wistar male rats weighing 250–350 g were used. They were submitted to gross anatomical dissection after intravascular colored latex injection (n = 30); conversion in modified Spalteholz cleared specimens (n=10); intravascular injection of a Perspex solution, and then corroded, in order to produce vascular corrosion casts of the vessels in the region (n = 5); histological studies (n = 20); scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts (n = 10); surgical dissection of the superficial caudal epigastric vessels (n = 100); and to thermographic evaluation (n = 30).

Results:

The ventrolateral abdominal wall presented a dominant superficial vascular system, which was composed mainly of branches from the superficial caudal epigastric artery and vein in the caudal half. The cranial half still received significant arterial contributions from the lateral thoracic artery in all cases and from large perforators coming from the intercostal arteries and from the deep cranial epigastric artery.

Conclusions:

These data show that rats and humans present a great deal of homology regarding the blood supply to the ventrolateral aspect of the abdominal integument. However, there are also significant differences that must be taken into consideration when performing and interpreting experimental procedures in rats.
The Risk Factors for Moderately Severe and Severe Post–Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Pancreatitis According to the Revised Atlanta Classification
Authors: Kim Eui Joo , Cho Jae Hee , Oh Kyong Yong , Kim Su Young , Kim Yeon Suk
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to confirm the value of the revised Atlanta classification for predicting the severity of post–endoscopic retrograde choloangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP) and to validate the risk factors for moderately severe and severe PEP.

Methods

Among 2672 patients, 86 with PEP and 172 randomly selected control patients were included in this study. Post–endoscopic retrograde choloangiopancreatography pancreatitis was evaluated according to Cotton criteria and the revised Atlanta classification. The agreements between the 2 sets of criteria were compared, and the risk factors for moderately severe and severe PEP were identified.

Results

According to the revised Atlanta classification, 72 patients (83.7%) had mild, 11 (12.8%) had moderately severe, and 3 (3.5%) had severe disease. The agreement between the revised Atlanta classification and Cotton criteria was fair (κ = 0.285). Statistically significant risk factors for PEP were difficult cannulation and dye injection in the pancreatic duct, including acinarization. For moderately severe or severe PEP, obesity (hazard ratio, 3.384 [95% confidence interval, 1.023–11.191]) was the only statistically significant risk factor.

Conclusions

The revised Atlanta classification of acute pancreatitis is an effective and feasible classification system for predicting PEP severity. Obesity was identified as an important risk factor predicting moderately severe and severe PEP.
Increased Burden of Pediatric Acute Pancreatitis on the Health Care System
Authors: Hornung Lindsey , Szabo Flora K. , Kalkwarf Heidi J. , Abu-El-Haija Maisam
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The incidence of pediatric acute pancreatitis (AP) increased over the past 2 decades and is estimated to be 3 to 13 per 100,000. The impact of rising AP incidence on health care costs is unknown. Our aim was to examine pediatric AP admissions and associated hospital costs in the United States between years 2004 and 2014.

Methods

Acute pancreatitis admission and cost data were extracted from the Pediatric Health Information System. We determined AP admission and cost percentages each year, as well as the ratio of AP cost to admission percentages to estimate AP “burden.” Length of stay, costs of hospitalization, and the effect of intensive care unit care on these estimates were examined.

Results

Between 2004 and 2014, AP admission percentages increased (P = 0.002). Length of stay decreased over time (P < 0.0001) and was longer for those requiring intensive care unit care (P < 0.0001). Acute pancreatitis admissions cost per day significantly increased over time (P < 0.0001). Median AP cost percentage remained 1.2 to 1.7 times higher than AP admission percentage.

Conclusions

Acute pancreatitis admissions constitute an expensive burden on the health care system relative to the percentage of all admissions. If AP admissions continue to increase, the cost of AP admissions may pose a substantial financial health care burden.
Should Asymptomatic Men Who Have Sex With Men Be Screened for Oropharyngeal Chlamydia? Clinical Outcomes From a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ong Jason J. , Chow Eric P.F. , De Petra Vesna , Williamson Deborah , Pelatosis Irene , Howden Ben , Zhang Lei , Chen Marcus Y. , Bradshaw Catriona S. , Hocking Jane , Fairley Christopher K.
Published: September 2017

Objective

To help inform screening guidelines, we estimated the proportion of asymptomatic men who have sex with men (MSM) with oropharyngeal chlamydia.

Study Design

An audit of asymptomatic MSM attending a sexual health service from March 2015 to April 2016 was conducted. They each had an oropharyngeal swab that was tested for Chlamydia trachomatis by transcription-mediated nucleic acid amplification. In addition, a random sample of 17 swabs that initially tested positive had confirmatory testing to determine the likelihood of true positivity.

Results

We collected 4877 oropharyngeal swabs: 72 (1.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2–1.9) were diagnosed positive for chlamydia. Most (n = 56 [78%]; 95% CI, 67–86) only had oropharyngeal chlamydia detected (i.e., no concurrent extraoropharyngeal chlamydia and/or gonorrhea). Of the 17 samples that underwent confirmation, all confirmed positive (100%; 95% CI, 82–100).

Conclusions

Although oropharyngeal chlamydia prevalence was low among asymptomatic MSM, most oropharyngeal chlamydia cases had no chlamydia at other sites, and these cases would have been missed and not treated if routine oropharyngeal chlamydia testing was not done.
Screening for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infections in Men Who Have Sex With Men: Diagnostic Accuracy of Nucleic Acid Amplification Test on Pooled Urine, Anorectal, and Pharyngeal Specimens
Authors: Thielemans Elise , Wyndham-Thomas Chloé , Henrard Sophie , De Vleeschouwer Anne , Steensels Deborah , Montesinos Isabel , Debaisieux Laurent , Delforge Marie-Luce , Van Vooren Jean-Paul , Goffard Jean-Christophe
Published: September 2017

Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis screening was performed in a cohort of 100 men who have sex with men. A nucleic acid amplification test on a pooled sample of first-pass urine, pharyngeal, and anorectal specimens was compared with results on nonpooled samples. Despite an excellent agreement (Cohen κ, 0.932), pooling specimens reduced test sensitivity to 89.5%.
Effect of Stretching on Thoracolumbar Fascia Injury and Movement Restriction in a Porcine Model
Authors: Langevin Helene M. , Bishop James , Maple Rhonda , Badger Gary J. , Fox James R.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Stretching of fascia is an important component of manual and movement therapies. We previously showed that in pigs, a unilateral thoracolumbar fascia injury combined with movement restriction (hobble) produced contralateral loss of fascia mobility (shear strain during passive trunk flexion measured with ultrasound) similar to findings in human subjects with chronic low back pain. We now tested whether such abnormalities could be reversed by removing the hobble with or without daily stretching for 1 mo.

Design

Thirty pigs were randomized to control, injury, or injury + hobble for 8 wks. The hobble restricted hip extension ipsilateral to the injury. At week 8, the injury + hobble group was subdivided into continued hobble, removed hobble, and removed hobble + stretching (passively extending the hip for 10 min daily).

Results

Removing hobbles restored normal gait speed but did not restore fascia mobility. Daily passive stretching was not superior to removing hobbles, as there was no significant improvement in fascia mobility with either treatment group (removed hobble or stretching).

Conclusions

Reduced fascia mobility in response to injury and movement restriction worsens over time and persists even when movement is restored. Reversing fascia abnormalities may require either longer than 1 mo or a different treatment “dose” or modality.
Importance of Risk Perception: Predictors of PrEP Acceptance Among Thai MSM and TG Women at a Community-Based Health Service
Authors: Plotzker Rosalyn , Seekaew Pich , Jantarapakde Jureeporn , Pengnonyang Supabhorn , Trachunthong Deondara , Linjongrat Danai , Janyam Surang , Nakpor Thitiyanun , Charoenying Sutinee , Mills Stephen , Vannakit Ravipa , Cassell Michael , Phanuphak Praphan , Lertpiriyasuwat Cheewanan , Phanuphak Nittaya
Published: September 2017

Background:

HIV prevalence among Thai men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TG) are 9.15% and 11.8%, respectively, compared with 1.1% in the general population. To better understand early adopters of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Thailand, we analyzed biobehavioral and sociodemographic characteristics of PrEP-eligible MSM and TG.

Setting:

Four Thai urban community clinics between October 2015 and February 2016.

Methods:

Sociodemographics, HIV risk characteristics, and PrEP knowledge and attitudes were analyzed in association with PrEP initiation among eligible Thai MSM and TG. Adjusted analysis explored factors associated with PrEP acceptance. We then analyzed HIV risk perception, which was strongly associated with PrEP initiation.

Results:

Of 297 participants, 55% accepted PrEP (48% of MSM, 54% of TG). Perceived HIV risk levels were associated with PrEP acceptance [odds ratio (OR): 4.3; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.5 to 12.2. OR: 6.3; 95% CI: 2.1 to 19.0. OR: 14.7; 95% CI: 3.9 to 55.1; for minimal, moderate, and high perceived risks, respectively]. HIV risk perception was associated with previous HIV testing (OR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.4 to 3.5); inconsistent condom use (OR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.1 to 2.9); amphetamine use in the past 6 months (OR: 3.1; 95% CI: 1.1 to 8.6); and uncertainty in the sexually transmitted infection history (OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.4 to 3.7). Approximately half of those who reported either inconsistent condom use (46%), multiple partners (50%), group sex (48%), or had baseline bacterial sexually transmitted infection (48%) perceived themselves as having no or mild HIV risk.

Conclusions:

HIV risk perception plays an important role in PrEP acceptance. Perception does not consistently reflect actual risk. It is therefore critical to assess a client's risk perception and provide education about HIV risk factors that will improve the accuracy of perceived HIV risk.
Plasma Tenofovir Levels to Support Adherence to TDF/FTC Preexposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention in MSM in Los Angeles, California
Authors: Landovitz Raphael J. , Beymer Matthew , Kofron Ryan , Amico Kathy Rivet , Psaros Christina , Bushman Lane , Anderson Peter L. , Flynn Risa , Lee David P. , Bolan Robert K. , Jordan Wilbert C. , Tseng Chi-Hong , Dierst-Davies Rhodri , Rooney Jim , Wohl Amy Rock
Published: September 2017

Background:

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective against HIV acquisition when taken as prescribed. Strategies that identify and intervene with those challenged by adherence to daily medication are needed.

Setting:

PATH-PrEP was an open-label single-arm interventional cohort study conducted at 2 community-based clinical sites in Los Angeles, CA.

Methods:

We enrolled self-identified men who have sex with men and transgender women ≥18 years of age at an elevated risk of HIV acquisition. Participants received a postexposure prophylaxis (PEP)–based or PrEP-based HIV prevention package for at least 48 weeks. Plasma tenofovir levels from each PrEP visit assessed as below the limit of quantitation (<10 ng/mL) triggered increased adherence support.

Results:

Three hundred one participants enrolled. Forty-eight–week retention in the PrEP cohort was 75.1%. Biomarker evidence of PrEP adherence consistent with ≥4 doses per week at weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, and 48 was found in 83.1%, 83.4%, 75.7%, 71.6%, and 65.5% of participants, respectively; younger and African American participants were less likely to have protective drug levels. Most of those with suboptimal adherence had adherence improvement after brief intervention. One seroconversion occurred in a participant who discontinued PrEP. Nearly half (46.4%) of participants were diagnosed with at least 1 incident sexually transmitted infection during 48 weeks of study follow-up.

Conclusions and Relevance:

PrEP was acceptable and well tolerated in a diverse population of men who have sex with men in Los Angeles. A brief intervention triggered from biomarkers of poor adherence was associated with improved adherence. Drug level monitoring has the potential to allow targeting of additional adherence support to those struggling with daily tablet adherence.