bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning Classifies Core and Outer Fucosylation of N-Glycoproteins Using Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Hwang Heeyoun , Jeong Hoi Keun , Lee Hyun Kyoung , Park Gun Wook , Lee Ju Yeon , Lee Soo Youn , Kang Young-Mook , An Hyun Joo , Kang Jeong Gu , Ko Jeong-Heon , Kim Jin Young , Yoo Jong Shin
Published: January 2020

Protein glycosylation is known to be involved in biological progresses such as cell recognition, growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. Fucosylation of glycoproteins plays an important role for structural stability and function of N-linked glycoproteins. Although many of biological and clinical studies of protein fucosylation by fucosyltransferases has been reported, structural classification of fucosylated N-glycoproteins such as core or outer isoforms remains a challenge. Here, we report for the first time the classification of N-glycopeptides as core- and outer-fucosylated types using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and machine learning algorithms such as the deep neural network (DNN) and support vector machine (SVM). Training and test sets of more than 800 MS/MS spectra of N-glycopeptides from the immunoglobulin gamma and alpha 1-acid-glycoprotein standards were selected for classification of the fucosylation types using supervised learning models. The best-performing model had an accuracy of more than 99% against manual characterization and area under the curve values greater than 0.99, which were calculated by probability scores from target and decoy datasets. Finally, this model was applied to classify fucosylated N-glycoproteins from human plasma. A total of 82N-glycopeptides, with 54 core-, 24 outer-, and 4 dual-fucosylation types derived from 54 glycoproteins, were commonly classified as the same type in both the DNN and SVM. Specifically, outer fucosylation was dominant in tri- and tetra-antennary N-glycopeptides, while core fucosylation was dominant in the mono-, bi-antennary and hybrid types of N-glycoproteins in human plasma. Thus, the machine learning methods can be combined with MS/MS to distinguish between different isoforms of fucosylated N-glycopeptides.
Breastfeeding predicts blood mitochondrial DNA content in adolescents
Authors: Cosemans Charlotte , Nawrot Tim S. , Janssen Bram G. , Vriens Annette , Smeets Karen , Baeyens Willy , Bruckers Liesbeth , Den Hond Elly , Loots Ilse , Nelen Vera , Van Larebeke Nicolas , Schoeters Greet , Martens Dries , Plusquin Michelle
Published: January 2020

Nutrition during early childhood is linked to metabolic programming. We hypothesized that breastfeeding has long-term consequences on the energy metabolism exemplified by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). As part of the third cycle of the Flemish Environment and Health Study (FLEHSIII) cohort, 303 adolescents aged 14–15 years were included. We associated breastfeeding and blood mtDNA content 14–15 years later while adjusting for confounding variables. Compared with non-breastfed adolescents, mtDNA content was 23.1% (95%CI: 4.4–45.2; p = 0.013) higher in breastfed adolescents. Being breastfed for 1–10 weeks, 11–20 weeks, and >20 weeks, was associated with a higher mtDNA content of respectively 16.0% (95%CI: −7.1–44.9; p = 0.191), 23.5% (95%CI: 0.8–51.3; p = 0.042), and 31.5% (95%CI: 4.3–65.7; p = 0.021). Our study showed a positive association between breastfeeding and mtDNA content in adolescents which gradually increased with longer periods of breastfeeding. Higher mtDNA content may be an underlying mechanism of the beneficial effects of breastfeeding on children’s metabolism.
Assembly mechanisms of dung beetles in temperate forests and grazing pastures
Authors: Ortega-Martínez Ilse J. , Moreno Claudia E. , Rios-Díaz Cecilia Lucero , Arellano Lucrecia , Rosas Fernando , Castellanos Ignacio
Published: January 2020

The role of deterministic and stochastic mechanisms in community assembly is a key question in ecology, but little is known about their relative contribution in dung beetle assemblages. Moreover, in human modified landscapes these mechanisms are crucial to understand how biodiversity can be maintained in productive agroecosystems. We explored the assembly mechanisms driving dung beetle assemblages in forests and grazed grassland patches, and assessed the role of dung availability, soil hardness and moisture, elevation and land use heterogeneity as environmental predictors of functional diversity. To determine the underlying assembly mechanisms, we estimated functional diversity metrics (functional richness, evenness and divergence) and their departure from the predicted values by null models. We also used GLMs to assess the influence of environmental variables on functional diversity. In most cases, stochastic processes prevailed in structuring dung beetle assemblages and, consequently, environmental variables were not good predictors of dung beetle functional diversity. However, limiting similarity was found as a secondary mechanism with an effect on dung beetle assemblages in grasslands. Our results highlight the importance of stochastic processes that may reflect a metacommunity dynamic. Therefore, restoring landscape connectivity might be more important than habitat quality for the conservation of these functionally diverse beetle assemblages.
Multifunctional Gas and pH Fluorescent Sensors Based on Cellulose Acetate Electrospun Fibers Decorated with Rhodamine B-Functionalised Core-Shell Ferrous Nanoparticles
Authors: Petropoulou Afroditi , Kralj Slavko , Karagiorgis Xenofon , Savva Ioanna , Loizides Emilios , Panagi Myrofora , Krasia-Christoforou Theodora , Riziotis Christos
Published: January 2020

Ferrous core-shell nanoparticles consisting of a magnetic γ-Fe2O3 multi-nanoparticle core and an outer silica shell have been synthesized and covalently functionalized with Rhodamine B (RhB) fluorescent molecules (γ-Fe2O3/SiO2/RhB NPs). The resulting γ-Fe2O3/SiO2/RhB NPs were integrated with a renewable and naturally-abundant cellulose derivative (i.e. cellulose acetate, CA) that was processed in the form of electrospun fibers to yield multifunctional fluorescent fibrous nanocomposites. The encapsulation of the nanoparticles within the fibers and the covalent anchoring of the RhB fluorophore onto the nanoparticle surfaces prevented the fluorophore’s leakage from the fibrous mat, enabling thus stable fluorescence-based operation of the developed materials. These materials were further evaluated as dual fluorescent sensors (i.e. ammonia gas and pH sensors), demonstrating consistent response for very high ammonia concentrations (up to 12000 ppm) and fast and linear response in both alkaline and acidic environments. The superparamagnetic nature of embedded nanoparticles provides means of electrospun fibers morphology control by magnetic field-assisted processes and additional means of electromagnetic-based manipulation making possible their use in a wide range of sensing applications.
Reinterpretation of common pathogenic variants in ClinVar revealed a high proportion of downgrades
Authors: Xiang Jiale , Yang Jiyun , Chen Lisha , Chen Qiang , Yang Haiyan , Sun Chengcheng , Zhou Qing , Peng Zhiyu
Published: January 2020

High-frequency disease-causing alleles exist, but their number is rather small. This study aimed to interpret and reclassify common pathogenic (P) and likely pathogenic (LP) variants in ClinVar and to identify indicators linked with reclassification. We analyzed P/LP variants without conflicting interpretations in ClinVar. Only variants with an allele frequency exceeding 0.5% in at least one ancestry in gnomAD were included. Variants were manually interpreted according to the guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology. Of 326 variants retrieved, 217 variants in 173 genes were selected for curation. Overall, 87 (40%) variants were downgraded to benign, likely benign or variant of uncertain significance. Five variants (2%) were found to be more likely to be risk factors. Most of the reclassifications were of variants with a low rank, an older classification, a higher allele frequency, or which were collected through methods other than clinical testing. ClinVar provides a universal platform for users who intend to share the classification variants, resulting in the improved concordance of variant interpretation. P/LP variants with a high allele frequency should be used with caution. Ongoing improvements would further improve the practicability of ClinVar database.
Cavity-enhanced metallic metalens with improved Efficiency
Authors: Li Hanmeng , Fang Bin , Chen Chen , Zhu Shining , Li Tao
Published: January 2020

Metasurfaces are made of subwavelength nanoantennas with a flat, ultrathin architecture, and strong capability in manipulating the propagation of light by flexible modulations on its phase, amplitude, and polarization. Conventional metallic metalenses always suffer from its low efficiencies due to large intrinsic loss. Here, we demonstrate a cavity enhanced bilayer metalens composed of aluminum nanobars and its complementary structures. The focusing and imaging experiments definitely show an improved efficiency of such kind of bilayer metalens compared with its single layer counterpart. Detailed theoretical analyses based on full-wave simulations are carried out with respect to different cavity lengthes and working wavelengths, which reveals that the improvement rightly attributes to enhanced cavity mode. Our design will not only improve the working efficiency for metalens with simplified manufacturing procedure, but also indicates more possibilities by employing the metal as electrodes.
Author Correction: Ethyl Acetate Extract Components of Bushen-Yizhi Formula Provides Neuroprotection against Scopolamine-induced Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Zhang Shi-Jie , Luo Dan , Li Lin , Tan Rui-Rong , Xu Qing-Qing , Qin Jie , Zhu Lei , Luo Na-Chuan , Xu Ting-Ting , Zhang Rong , Yang Lei , Wang Qi
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Convergence and divergence of songs suggests ongoing, but annually variable, mixing of humpback whale populations throughout the North Pacific
Authors: Darling James D. , Acebes Jo Marie V. , Frey Oscar , Jorge Urbán R. , Yamaguchi Manami
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Osteopontin Expression in Small Airway Epithelium in Copd is Dependent on Differentiation and Confined to Subsets of Cells
Authors: Ali Mohamad N. , Mori Michiko , Mertens Tinne C. J. , Siddhuraj Premkumar , Erjefält Jonas S. , Önnerfjord Patrik , Hiemstra Pieter S. , Egesten Arne
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Paleomagnetic Evidence for Inverse Correspondence between the Relative Contribution of the Axial Dipole Field and CMB Heat Flux for the Past 270 Myr
Authors: Franco Daniel Ribeiro , de Oliveira Wellington Paulo , de Freitas Felipe Barbosa Venâncio , Takahashi Diego , da Ponte Neto Cosme Ferreira , Peixoto Ian Muzy Camarão
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Combinatorial allosteric modulation of agonist response in a self-interacting G-protein coupled receptor
Authors: Patrone Marco , Cammarota Eugenia , Berno Valeria , Tornaghi Paola , Mazza Davide , Degano Massimo
Published: January 2020

The structural plasticity of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) enables the long-range transmission of conformational changes induced by specific orthosteric site ligands and other pleiotropic factors. Here, we demonstrate that the ligand binding cavity in the sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor S1PR1, a class A GPCR, is in allosteric communication with both the β-arrestin-binding C-terminal tail, and a receptor surface involved in oligomerization. We show that S1PR1 oligomers are required for full response to different agonists and ligand-specific association with arrestins, dictating the downstream signalling kinetics. We reveal that the active form of the immunomodulatory drug fingolimod, FTY720-P, selectively harnesses both these intramolecular networks to efficiently recruit β-arrestins in a stable interaction with the receptor, promoting deep S1PR1 internalization and simultaneously abrogating ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Our results define a molecular basis for the efficacy of fingolimod for people with multiple sclerosis, and attest that GPCR signalling can be further fine-tuned by the oligomeric state.
Exploring CoP core–shell nanosheets by Fe and Zn dual cation doping as efficient electrocatalysts for overall water splitting
Authors: Wang Pengcheng , Liu Xuefeng , Yan Yaotian , Cao Jian , Feng Jicai , Qi Junlei
Published: January 2020

Fe and Zn dual-doped core–shell CoP nanosheets have been explored and exhibit highly efficient overall water splitting.
Selective catalytic oxidation of ammonia over LaMAl11O19−δ (M = Fe, Cu, Co, and Mn) hexaaluminates catalysts at high temperatures in the Claus process
Authors: Jiang Guoxia , Zhang Fenglian , Wei Zheng , Wang Zhuo , Sun Yu , Zhang Yumeng , Lin Caihong , Zhang Xin , Hao Zhengping
Published: January 2020

A method for selective catalytic oxidation of ammonia at high temperature was proposed to remove the ammonia impurity in the Claus process. Cu substituted hexaaluminate catalysts achieved the highest N2 yield at around 520 °C and the reaction followed the i-SCR mechanism.
Sewage water treatment with energy recovery using constructed wetlands integrated with a bioelectrochemical system
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Singh Rajesh
Published: January 2020

In the present study, we investigated the role of constructed wetlands (CWs) integrated with a bioelectrochemical system (BES), which can concurrently treat wastewater effectively with energy recovery.
A new category-specific nutrient rich food (NRF9f.3) score adds flavonoids to assess nutrient density of fruit
Authors: Drewnowski Adam , Burton-Freeman Britt
Published: January 2020

Nutrient profiling (NP) models, intended to capture the full nutritional value of plant-based foods, ought to incorporate bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids, in addition to standard nutrients.
Thermal protection and pH-gated release of folic acid in microparticles and nanoparticles for food fortification
Authors: Osojnik Črnivec Ilja Gasan , Istenič Katja , Skrt Mihalea , Poklar Ulrih Nataša
Published: January 2020

Dispersed folic acid was successfully encapsulated in alginate–pectin hydrogels, proliposomes, and combinations thereof, providing an efficient pH-responsive delivery system.
Core–shell structured 5-FU@ZIF-90@ZnO as a biodegradable nanoplatform for synergistic cancer therapy
Authors: Xiao Xiao , Liang Shuang , Zhao Yajie , Huang Dayu , Xing Bengang , Cheng Ziyong , Lin Jun
Published: January 2020

High treatment efficiency and low drug toxicity are two key factors in tumor therapy.
Modification of proteins using olefin metathesis
Authors: Messina Marco S. , Maynard Heather D.
Published: January 2020

Proteins are modified with small molecules and polymers via olefin metathesis reactions in aqueous media.
In-plane stimulated emission of polycrystalline CH3NH3PbBr3 perovskite thin films
Authors: Wang Ju , Liu Wei , Wu Cuncun , Zhu Ning , Liu Congyue , Wang Shufeng
Published: January 2020

MAPbBr3 perovskite thin film contains large crystal flakes, which support the in-plane stimulated emission and its propagation within these polycrystalline films. The emission scatters at the natural or artificial edge of the film.
Fabrication and performance evaluation of new nanocomposite membranes based on sulfonated poly(phthalazinone ether ketone) for PEM fuel cells
Authors: Hooshyari Khadijeh , Heydari Samira , Javanbakht Mehran , Beydaghi Hossein , Enhessari Morteza
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this work is to enhance the proton conductivity and fuel cell performance of sulfonated poly(phthalazinone ether ketone) (SPPEK) as a proton exchange membrane through the application of SrTiO3 perovskite nanoparticles.
Effect of silver doping on ultrafast broadband nonlinear optical responses in polycrystalline Ag-doped InSe nanofilms at near-infrared
Authors: Yan Xiaoyan , Wu Xingzhi , Fang Yu , Sun Wenjun , Yao Chengbao , Wang Yuxiao , Zhang Xueru , Song Yinglin
Published: January 2020

Schematic illustration of the preparation and morphology in Ag-doped InSe nano film.
The influence of gut microbiota on the rheological characterization of soy hull polysaccharide and mucin interactions
Authors: Yang Lina , Huang Jinghang , Luo Mingshuo , Wang Ziyi , Zhu Lijie , Wang Shengnan , Zhu Danshi , Liu He
Published: January 2020

SSHP increased the viscoelasticity of the interfacial film and reduced the interfacial tension at the air–water interface by interacting with mucin. SSHP increased the ratio of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes and promoted the growth of probiotics.
Significant enhancement of dielectric permittivity and percolation behaviour of La2−xSrxNiO4/poly(vinylidene fluoride) composites with different Sr doping concentrations
Authors: Meeporn Keerati , Chanlek Narong , Thongbai Prasit
Published: January 2020

The percolation behaviour and dielectric properties of La2−xSrxNiO4 (LSNO)/poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) composites with different Sr doping concentrations were investigated.
Regioselective/electro-oxidative intermolecular [3 + 2] annulation for the preparation of indolines
Authors: Wang Qingqing , Wang Pan , Gao Xinlong , Wang Dan , Wang Shengchun , Liang Xingan , Wang Liwei , Zhang Heng , Lei Aiwen
Published: January 2020

Compared with the reported intramolecular electro-oxidative cyclization of alkenyl amines or vinyl anilines for the preparation of pyrrolidines or indolines, the intermolecular version is less studied.
Perovskite-supported Pt single atoms for methane activation
Authors: Wan Qiang , Fung Victor , Lin Sen , Wu Zili , Jiang De-en
Published: January 2020

Due to polar compensation, Pt1 is negatively charged on the A termination of SrBO3(100) surfaces but positively charged on the B termination, which greatly impacts methane adsorption.
Steering the electron transport properties of pyridine-functionalized fullerene derivatives in inverted perovskite solar cells: the nitrogen site matters
Authors: Li Bairu , Zhen Jieming , Wan Yangyang , Lei Xunyong , Jia Lingbo , Wu Xiaojun , Zeng Hualing , Chen Muqing , Wang Guan-Wu , Yang Shangfeng
Published: January 2020

Three pyridine-functionalized fullerene derivatives with variable nitrogen sites were synthesized and used as electron transport layers of iPSCs, exhibiting tunable interactions with the perovskite layer and different electron transport properties.
Cobalt/zinc dual-sites coordinated with nitrogen in nanofibers enabling efficient and durable oxygen reduction reaction in acidic fuel cells
Authors: Zang Jian , Wang Feiteng , Cheng Qingqing , Wang Guoliang , Ma Lushan , Chen Chi , Yang Lijun , Zou Zhiqing , Xie Daiqian , Yang Hui
Published: January 2020

Co/Zn atomic dual-sites anchored on N doped carbon nanofibers for efficient and durable H2–O2 fuel cells (∼0.65 V @ 400 mA cm−2, 150 hours).
Construction of a thermo-responsive polymer brush decorated Fe3O4@catechol-formaldehyde resin core–shell nanosphere stabilized carbon dots/PdNP nanohybrid and its application as an efficient catalyst
Authors: Yang Yu , Zhu Wenjing , Shi Bingfeng , Lü Changli
Published: January 2020

CD-stabilized PdNPs supported on thermo-sensitive polymer brush grafted mussel-inspired Fe3O4@CFR core–shell magnetic nanospheres were constructed as a highly efficient recyclable nanocatalyst.
Interfacial electron transfer of heterostructured MIL-88A/Ni(OH)2 enhances the oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline solutions
Authors: Qian Zhengxin , Wang Keke , Shi Kexin , Fu Zhaoqin , Mai Zequn , Wang Xiufang , Tang Zhenghua , Tian Yong
Published: January 2020

A facile strategy is developed to create a MIL-88A/Ni(OH)2 heterostructure, where the interfacial charge transfer significantly boosted the OER performance.
Tailorable nanoarchitecturing of bimetallic nickel–cobalt hydrogen phosphate via the self-weaving of nanotubes for efficient oxygen evolution
Authors: Septiani Ni Luh Wulan , Kaneti Yusuf Valentino , Fathoni Kresna Bondan , Guo Yanna , Ide Yusuke , Yuliarto Brian , Jiang Xuchuan , Nugraha  , Dipojono Hermawan Kresno , Golberg Dmitri , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: January 2020

This work reports the fabrication of bimetallic nickel–cobalt hydrogen phosphate with unique nanotube-assembled 1D and 2D architectures for electrocatalytic OER.
Photo-induced synthesis of molybdenum oxide quantum dots for surface-enhanced Raman scattering and photothermal therapy
Authors: Yu Haihong , Zhuang Zhengfei , Li Dongling , Guo Yanxian , Li Yang , Zhong Huiqing , Xiong Honglian , Liu Zhiming , Guo Zhouyi
Published: January 2020

By means of a simple and photo-induced method, four colors of molybdenum oxide quantum dots (MoOx QDs) have been synthesized for surface-enhanced Raman scattering and photothermal therapy.
Tumor-specific nanomedicine via sequential catalytic reactions for accurate tumor therapy
Authors: Chen Li , Zhao Lu , Hu Guoyang , Jin Ronghua , Cai Bolei , Bai Yongkang , Chen Xin
Published: January 2020

A tumor-targeting nanoreactor was developed to perform TME-triggered chain catalytic reactions and achieved satisfactory and accurate tumor therapy.
Improved piezoelectricity in ternary potassium–sodium niobate lead-free ceramics with large strain
Authors: Wu Bo , Ma Jian , Wu Wenjuan , Chen Min
Published: January 2020

We decode the relationship of balanced development between piezoelectric and strain properties, which would promote the practical application of lead-free piezoelectric materials.
Molecular and crystalline requirements for solid state fluorescence exploiting excited state intramolecular proton transfer
Authors: Dommett Michael , Rivera Miguel , Smith Matthew T. H. , Crespo-Otero Rachel
Published: January 2020

The identification of radiative and nonradiative channels and, how these are affected by aggregation, help rationalise emissive properties and aid in the design of yet more efficient ESIPT fluorophores in the condensed phase.
A high performance self-powered ultraviolet photodetector based on a p-GaN/n-ZnMgO heterojunction
Authors: Zhu Yongxue , Liu Kewei , Ai Qiu , Hou Qichao , Chen Xing , Zhang Zhenzhong , Xie Xiuhua , Li Binghui , Shen Dezhen
Published: January 2020

A high performance p-GaN/n-ZnMgO heterojunction photodiode was demonstrated and investigated.
Nanostructured copper sulfide thin film via a spatial successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction process showing significant surface-enhanced infrared absorption of CO2
Authors: Zhang Yujing , Chong Xinyuan , Sun Hao , Kedir Muaz M. , Kim Ki-Joong , Ohodnicki Paul R. , Wang Alan X. , Chang Chih-hung
Published: January 2020

A highly sensitive CO2 sensor, comprising nanostructured copper sulfide that exhibits desired localized surface plasmon resonance, demonstrates a significant surface-enhanced infrared absorption for 100 ppm CO2 with an enhancement factor of 104.
Realizing graphene-like Dirac cones in triangular boron sheets by chemical functionalization
Authors: Xu Shao-Gang , Chen Zhong-Jia , Zhao Yu-Jun , Zhang Xiuwen , Xu Hu , Yang Xiao-Bao
Published: January 2020

The unique Dirac cone in graphene, rare and difficult to be realized in non-group IV materials, closely connects with many novel properties. We have theoretically designed a family of triangular boride monolayers with graphene-like Dirac cones.
Color manipulation of Bi3+-activated CaZnOS under stress with ultra-high efficiency and low threshold for anticounterfeiting applications
Authors: Yang Yun-Ling , Li Qian-Li , Yang Xue-Chun , Yang Woochul , An Ran , Li Ting , Zhou Yu , Zhang Hong-Wu , Zhao Jing-Tai , Zhang Zhi-Jun
Published: January 2020

We report blue to green emission mechanoluminescence (ML) in CaZnOS:Bi3+,Li+ with about 50 times greater ML intensity than that of the strong ML material ZnS:Cu+.
Bio-polysaccharide electrolyte gated photoelectric synergic coupled oxide neuromorphic transistor with Pavlovian activities
Authors: Guo Yan Bo , Zhu Li Qiang , Long Ting Yu , Wan Dong Yun , Ren Zheng Yu
Published: January 2020

A photoelectric synergic coupled oxide neuromorphic transistor was fabricated, demonstrating photoelectric synergic spatiotemporal integration activities and Pavlovian classical condition activities.
Molecular gas in distant brightest cluster galaxies
Authors: Castignani G. , Combes F. , Salomé P. , Freundlich J.
Published: January 2020

The mechanisms governing the stellar mass assembly and star formation history of brightest cluster galaxies (BCGs) are still being debated. By means of new and archival molecular gas observations we investigate the role of dense megaparsec-scale environments in regulating the fueling of star formation in distant BCGs, through cosmic time. We observed in CO with the IRAM 30 m telescope two star-forming BCGs belonging to SpARCS clusters, namely, 3C 244.1 (z = 0.4) and SDSS J161112.65+550823.5 (z = 0.9), and compared their molecular gas and star formation properties with those of a compilation of ∼100 distant cluster galaxies from the literature, including nine additional distant BCGs at z  ∼  0.4 − 3.5. We set robust upper limits of MH2 <  1.0 × 1010 M⊙ and < 2.8 × 1010 M⊙ to their molecular gas content, respectively, and to the ratio of molecular gas to stellar mass M(H2)/M⋆ ≲ 0.2 and depletion time τdep ≲ 40 Myr of the two targeted BCGs. They are thus among the distant cluster galaxies with the lowest gas fractions and shortest depletion times. The majority (64%±15% and 73%±18%) of the 11 BCGs with observations in CO have lower M(H2)/M⋆ values and τdep, respectively, than those estimated for main sequence galaxies. Statistical analysis also tentatively suggests that the values of M(H2)/M⋆ and τdep for the 11 BCGs deviates, with a significance of ∼2σ, from those of the comparison sample of cluster galaxies. A morphological analysis for a subsample of seven BCGs with archival HST observations reveals that 71%±17% of the BCGs are compact or show star-forming components or substructures. Our results suggest a scenario where distant star-forming BCGs assemble a significant fraction ∼16% of their stellar mass on the relatively short timescale ∼τdep, while environmental mechanisms might prevent the replenishment of gas feeding the star formation. We speculate that compact components also favor the rapid exhaustion of molecular gas and ultimately help to quench the BCGs. Distant star-forming BCGs are excellent targets for ALMA and for next-generation telescopes such as the James Webb Space Telescope.
Application of Cervical Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Adults with Moderate to Profound Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Ciodaro Francesco , Freni Francesco , Alberti Giuseppe , Forelli Marco , Gazia Francesco , Bruno Rocco , Sherdell Enrique Perello , Galletti Bruno , Galletti Francesco
Published: January 2020

Introduction The cochlea and the vestibular receptors are closely related in terms of anatomy and phylogeny. Patients with moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss (MPSHL) should have their vestibular organ functions tested.

Objective To evaluate the incidence of vestibular abnormalities in patients with MPSHL and to study the correlation between the etiology of hearing loss (HL) and a possible damage to the labyrinth.

Methods A case-control retrospective study was performed. In the case group, 20 adults with MPSHL of known etiology were included. The control group was composed of 15 adults with normal hearing. The case group was divided into 4 subgroups based on the etiology (bacterial meningitis, virus, vascular disease, congenital). Cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMPs) were used to rate the saccular function and lower vestibular nerve.

Results The study was performed in 70 ears, and it highlighted the presence of early biphasic P1-N1 complex in 29 (71.5%) out of 40 ears in the study group, and in all of the 30 ears in the control group (p = 0.001). Regarding the presence or absence of cVEMPs among the four subgroups of patients with MPSHL, the data were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The comparison between the latencies and amplitude of P1-N1 in case and control groups from other studies and in the four subgroups of cases in the present study did not detect statistically significant differences.

Conclusion The present study demonstrates that patients with MPSHL have a high incidence of damage to the labyrinthine organs, and it increases the current knowledge about the etiopathogenesis of sensorineural HL, which is often of unknown nature.
Salivary Gland Disorders in Children and Adolescents: A 15-year Experience
Authors: Gellrich Donata , Bichler Moritz , Reichel Christoph A. , Schrötzlmair Florian , Zengel Pamela
Published: January 2020

Introduction Diseases of the salivary glands are rare in children and adolescents, with the exception of viral-induced infections.

Objective To determine the clinical course of the disease, the diagnostic procedures, the treatment and the outcome of all children and adolescents affected with salivary gland diseases at our clinic over a period of 15 years.

Methods A retrospective chart review including a long-term follow-up was conducted among 146 children and adolescents treated for salivary gland disorders from 2002 to 2016.

Results Diagnosing acute sialadenitis was easily managed by all doctors regardless of their specialty. The diagnosis of sialolithiasis was rapidly made only by otorhinolaryngologists, whereas diagnosing juvenile recurrent parotitis imposed difficulties to doctors of all specialties – resulting in a significant delay between the first occurrence of symptoms and the correct diagnosis. The severity-adjusted treatment yielded improvements in all cases, and a full recovery of 75% of the cases of sialolithiasis, 73% of the cases of juvenile recurrent parotitis, and 100% of the cases of acute sialadenitis.

Conclusions Due to their low prevalence and the lack of pathognomonic symptoms, salivary gland diseases in children and adolescents are often misdiagnosed, resulting in an unnecessarily long period of suffering despite a favorable outcome following the correct treatment.
De-epithelialised fasciocutaneous turnover flap: An alternative for defects in lower thigh and knee joint
Authors: Sharma R. K. , Nanda Vipul , Makkar Surinder , Parasher Atul
Published: January 2020

We describe the use of proximally based de-epithelialised fasciocutaneous flap for coverage of defects in the lower thigh and knee joint. These flaps are based on a number of perforators around the knee joint and can be based either posteriorly, posteromedially or posterolaterally depending upon the location of the defect. The whole of the flap including the bridge segment is de-epithelialised and turned over by 180 degrees and a split thickness graft is placed over the flap and the donor site. The flaps can be raised quickly, have minimum morbidity and are reliable even in the presence of extensive injuries. These flaps have remained stable and trouble free during a follow up period of 2-4 years.
Median cleft of mandible and lower lip with ankyloglossia and ectopic minor salivary gland on tongue
Authors: Rana Roshani E. , Puri Vinita A. , Thakkur Rahul K. , Baliarsing A. S.
Published: January 2020

Median cleft of lower lip and mandible is a rare anomaly. This Cleft has also been described as Cleft No. 30 of Tessier′s classification. In minor forms only lower lip is cleft. Frequently, the cleft extends into the mandibular symphysis and the tongue is attached to the cleft alveolar margin. At times the tongue may be bifid or absent, hyoid absent, thyroid cartilage underdeveloped, strap muscles atrophic, manubrium sterni absent, clavicles widely spaced etc. The earliest report of this anomaly was by Couronne′ in 1819. Since then very few cases have been reported in literature with variations. We describe a male child who presented at the age of 6 months with an ectopic salivary gland on the dorsum of the tongue in addition to median cleft of lower lip, ankyloglossia and notching of the mandible. Excision of mass on dorsum of tongue, release of ankyloglossia and lip from the alveolus followed by repair was done. No bony work was done since the mandible was only notched. On post-operative follow-up at 18 months, dentition was delayed in both maxillary as well as mandibular teeth and there was a gap between the lower central incisors. At the age of 2 years 4 months, the dentition is still not complete and the gap between the lower central incisors is very apparent. There is a supernumerary upper central incisor on right side. There is no mobility between the two segments of mandible. Speech is normal. A regular follow-up will be done to study the eruption of permanent central incisors at the age of 7 years and till eruption of all permanent teeth to assess the occlusion and to decide whether any bony work is needed or not.
Closed rupture of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon of little finger: A case report
Authors: Agarwal Pawan
Published: January 2020

Closed rupture of the FDP tendon is rare. However, whenever they occur the most common site of rupture is the tendon-bone insertion, less frequent site is at the musculo-tendinous junction. Midsubstance ruptures are even more unique and are usually due to underlying pathology such as fracture, cystic degeneration, rheumatoid arthritis, or sequel following local steroid injection. This report describes a closed rupture of FDP tendon of little finger. Mechanism of injury, diagnosis and management are discussed.
Distal perforator based cross leg flaps for leg and foot defects
Authors: Bhattacharya V , Raveendra Reddy Ganji
Published: January 2020

The cross leg fasciocutaneous flaps are less frequently indicated for distal leg and foot defects due to the availability of other alternative options. However they still remain one of the more realistic options for the surgeon in situations like unsuccessful attempt of free flaps, non-availability of ipsilateral proximal calf tissue, damaged distal perforators following trauma, burns, radiation etc., and inadequate reach beyond mid sole. In the present article we share our experience emphasizing the significance and use, with redefined indications and surgical technique of cross leg retrograde fasciocutaneous flaps for various distal leg and foot defects. We are of the opinion that these flaps are still useful as they continue to prove to be the flap of choice in demanding situations.
Acquisition and elaboration of superficial three-dimensional images in plastic and reconstructive surgery: Applications
Authors: Alfano C , Mezzana Paolo , Scuderi N
Published: January 2020

Since 1970, as computed axial tomography machines became easily available and became more sophisticated, image acquisition techniques and analysis improved, developed rapidly and became very useful in medical diagnosis. Today it is possible to examine either the anatomic and functional aspects of deep body organs and tissues including all the minute details as well as their morphological relations with superficial structures. Through precise graphic elaboration programs we can obtain information about spatial relations which was not possible using simply classical clinical examination. It is possible, for example, to "point out" an area of interest from its anatomic context, to carry out virtual cleavage of planes and to measure volumes and distances. New developments in image acquisition systems permit transfer of three-dimensional data directly from existing objects. The three -dimensional computerized axial tomography for deep structures, and the laser scanners for superficial structure, quickly furnish (1-3 seconds for the laser scanners) useful information to plan the surgical operation.

When analysing 3D-imaging techniques it is important to appreciate their utility for the planning and the follow up of surgery, particularly for the head and thorax, where the three dimensional evaluation is better than the classic double dimensional system that is incomplete and difficult to interpret. In the future, these systems will be important for the best aesthetic and functional results and above all for reducing the surgical time.
Vascular anomalies
Authors: Jyotsna Murthy
Published: January 2020

Management of vascular anomalies is an emerging multidisciplinary, super-specialisation field involving several surgical, medical and radiological specialties. Over the years, development in this field has been limited because of complex nomenclature and lack of consensus on the best practice for treatment of some of the more complex vascular anomalies. It was only in 1996 that the International Society of the Study of Vascular Anomalies defined nomenclature for the anomalies and gave clear guidelines on management, allowing for improved clinical practices. As in all fields of clinical medicine, the correct diagnosis of the vascular anomalies is essential to choose the appropriate treatment. This paper gives clear guidelines for diagnosis, understanding of the anomalies and discusses their management.
Lingual cysticercosis
Authors: Pandey S C , Pandey S D
Published: January 2020

A fourtyfive year old male presented with a painless solitary nodular swelling near left lateral border of the tongue of two months duration. Fine needle aspiration cytology lead to no conclusion. Excisional biopsy was done. Histopathology revealed Cysticercosis cellulosae and the parasite could be visualised in the slide along with the tongue muscles.
A classification of cranio facio cervical (branchial) clefts (Bangalore classification)
Authors: Subramani S A , Murthy B S
Published: January 2020

This new classification is based on the analysis of the following:

1. The study of Embryological developments of the normal structures and the clefts in the head and neck regions,

2. The Clinical presentation of Clefts in the head and neck regions in our series of 146 cases,

3. The study of clefts under Rare craniofacial, Branchial [Cervical] and Classifications by various Authors and

4. The review of Literature pertaining to the clefts in head and neck regions.

The documentation of commonly diagnosed and treated cleft lip and palate anomalies have remained unsatisfactory. As the regular cleft lip and palate falls within the purview of this new classification, a separate classification of Rare Craniofacial clefts can be avoided. This is an attempt made to bring all varieties of cleft deformities in the head and neck region under one Classification and to plan and execute better techniques in the field of assessment and management.
Tumescent infiltration versus femoral nerve block for skin graft harvest-a prospective randomized study
Authors: Mathew J , Varghese S , Jagadeesh S
Published: January 2020

In this prospective, randomized study, 60 patients requiring a single sheet of graft were randomized into 2 groups. Tumescent infiltration was used for anesthesia in one group and femoral nerve block in the other. The pain during administration of anesthesia, the time required for onset of action, the pain during graft harvest and the failure rates were recorded. Statistical comparison was done using Fischers Exact probability test for the failure rates and Mann Whitney- U test for the other parameters. The pain during administration was significantly higher for tumescent infiltration. The time for onset of action was significantly faster with femoral nerve block. The pain during harvest and the failure rates did not show any significant difference. We conclude that tumescent infiltration is more painful than femoral nerve block but equally effective as anesthesia with no difference in the failure and complication rates.
Efficacy of injections of phosphatidylcholine into fat deposits-a non-surgical alternative to liposuction in body-contouring
Authors: Heinrich Karl G
Published: January 2020

Injecting phosphatidylcholine has been used in South America as a non-surgical treatment in body contouring. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of injecting phosphatidylcholine in the reduction of localised fat deposits. 86 patients were included in the study. Patients received 1-3 treatments in localised fat deposits in various areas of the body using phosphatidylcholine. After treatment with phosphatidylcholine (250 mg / 5 ml), fat deposits show an average circumferential reduction per application of 2.70 cm. No patient showed irregularities, dimples or any serious side effect after treatment. Results remained stable during the time of follow up. All patients showed remarkable reductions of the fat deposits treated with phosphatidylcholine. Using the correct technique, injecting phosphatidylcholine may be a safe and efficacious alternative to liposuction in patients objecting to surgery.
Anthropometric analysis of lip-nose complex in Indian population
Authors: Khandekar B , Srinivasan S , Mokal N , Thatte M R
Published: January 2020

One hundred normal individuals of different age groups from Mumbai (India) were included in this study. Various dimensions of lip-nose complex were measured. The results were compared with the available data for blacks, Caucasians and Chinese. In the population under study lip-nose complex measurements differ in all dimensions with blacks and Caucasians and show resemblance to the Chinese. The analysis of the data does not simply indicate the differences in the measurements but also points out change in growth patterns which will have a clinical significance.
Absence of musculocutaneous nerve and accessory head of biceps brachii: a case report
Authors: Arora L , Dhingra R
Published: January 2020

During dissection of a 55-year-old female cadaver, we observed that three nerve roots contributed to the formation of Median nerve in her right upper limb. Along with this variation, absence of Musculocutaneous nerve was noticed. The muscles of front of arm i.e. Biceps Brachii, Brachialis and Coracobrachialis received their nerve supply from Median nerve. The Lateral cutaneous nerve of forearm was derived from Median nerve. Also an accessory head of Biceps Brachii muscle was present in the right arm of the same cadaver. It is extremely important to be aware of these variations while planning a surgery in the region of axilla or arm as these nerves are more liable to be injured during operations.
Blast injury lower face: An unusual and rare case
Authors: Soni A
Published: January 2020

Isolated blast injuries of the face are rare and injuries due to blasting of low voltage batteries in or near the mouth are even rarer. We present here a case of an 18 year old boy who suffered from extensive injury and tissue loss involving the lower half of the face due to blasting of a low voltage battery used in a flash light due to apparent shortcircuiting when the boy put the two short wires connected to a low voltage battery in his mouth in order to deinsulate them. This resulted in a blast leading to severe injuries and tissue loss which included the lower nose, upper lip, all teeth, both cheeks, floor of mouth tongue, chin, the maxilla and mandible.
Reconstruction in extensive axillary Hidradenitis suppurativa with local fasciocutaneous V-Y advancement flaps
Authors: Ramesh Kumar Sharma , Krishnan Mohan Kapoor , Gurpreet Singh
Published: January 2020

We present our experience with the use of local fasciocutaneous V-Y advancement flaps in the reconstruction of 10 axillae in 6 patients for large defects following wide excision of long-standing Hidradenitis suppurativa of the axilla. The defects were closed with local V-Y subcutaneous island flaps. A single flap from the chest wall was sufficient for moderate defects. However, for larger defects, an additional flap was taken from the medial side of the ipsilateral arm. The donor defects could be closed primarily in all the patients. The local areas of the lateral chest wall and the medial side of the arm have a plentiful supply of cutaneous perforators and the flaps can be designed in a V-Y fashion without resorting to preoperative marking of the perforator. The flaps were freed sufficiently to allow adequate movement for closure of the defects. Although no attempt was made to identify the perforators specifically, many perforators were seen entering the flap. Some perforators can be safely divided to increase reach of the flap. All the flaps survived completely. A follow up of 2.5 years is presented.
Urethral advancement technique for repair of distal penile hypospadias: A revisit
Authors: Mohamed M.S Awad
Published: January 2020

Background: Numerous ingenious methods have been described to repair hypospadias with variable results. The anterior urethral advancement technique reported by Chang[1] to repair distal hypospadias has shown encouraging results. We have reevaluated this technique with some modifications to improve its results.

Materials and Methods: This study was done on 72 patients, 19 cases with glanular hypospadias, 20 cases with coronal hypospadias, 22 cases of subcoronal hypospadias,and 11 cases with anterior penile hypospadias in the period between September 1999 and October 2003. The patients′ age ranged from two years to twenty five years (median age 5.6) years. All the patients were operated using Chang′s technique with our modifications.

Results: There were no major complications in any of our patients, no postoperative fistulae or urethral stricture. Three patients had meatal stenosis and preputial edema occurred in 83.3% in non-circumcised patients.

Conclusion: Modifications of the anterior advancement technique has produced excellent Results. It is easy to do and learn and also offers good cosmetic and functional results.
A scanning electron microscopic evaluation of microsurgical anastomosis by conventional end to end and end to end anastomosis using “temporary stent” technique: An experimental study
Authors: Suresh M. Chaware , Bhatnagar S K , Singh A K
Published: January 2020

Background: The art of microvascular repair progressed slowly over a century after Carrel′s original description of ′vascular repair′ in 1902. Reports of the successful repair of vessels smaller than one mm in diameter are currently commonplace. However, the art of microvascular surgery has not yet been perfected, as evidenced by frequent reports of clinical failure. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of a ′temporary stent′ on the patency rates of vessels and to study the vascular endothelium under electron microscope to determine the changes caused by both conventional and the experimental technique.

Materials and Methods: This study consisted of two distinct arms. In the first part (27 rats) we studied the effect of temporary stenting on end to end anastomosis vis a vis its patency rates. While in the second part (30 rats) the same experiment was performed with a view to examine the anastomosis under electron microscope at different time frames to study the state of the endothelium in the vessel lumen at the site of anastomosis and also along the length of the vessel up to the point where clamps were applied.

Results: In our study conventional end-to-end microvascular anastomoses had late patency rate of 70.37%. While end-to-end microvascular anastomoses using temporary stent had patency rate of 92.59%. On electron microscopic study, it was observed that, the endothelial damage was less in the stented group.

Conclusion: Stent technique produces lesser degree of trauma to the vessel and no serious complications compared to the conventional dilatation and manipulation with vessel dilator.
A rare variation of the biceps brachi muscle
Authors: Paval J , Mathew J G
Published: January 2020

Biceps brachii muscle is very variable. Biceps may be composed of one to five heads. Although the variations in the origin are plenty, there are a very few cases reported on the variations in the insertion of the biceps brachii muscle. In this report we present a variant biceps brachii muscle which gives an abnormal muscle fasciculus from its medial side which continues as a narrow tendinous slip and is inserted in to the medial supracondylar ridge of humerus. We discuss in this report, the possible median nerve entrapment due to the presence of such a variation.