bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
D
esulfoluna
Authors: Galushko Alexander , Kuever Jan
Published: October 2019

De.sul.fo.lu'na. L. pref.
de
, from; L. neut. n.
sulfur
, sulfur; N.L. pref.
desulfo
‐, prefix used to characterize a dissimilatory sulfate‐reducing prokaryote; L. fem. n.
luna
, the figure of a half‐moon, a crescent, lune; N.L. fem. n.
Desulfoluna
, a sulfate‐reducing crescent.

Desulfobacterota / Desulfobacteria / Desulfobacterales / Desulfolunaceae / Desulfoluna

Slightly curved rods, 0.8–1.0 µm × 1.6–4.0 µm. Occur singly or in pairs. Spore formation is not observed. Gram‐stain‐negative. Motility might occur depending on the species. Strictly anaerobic, having a respiratory and sometimes fermentative type of metabolism. Chemoorganoheterotrophs, using short straight‐chain fatty acids, lactate, pyruvate, and other simple organic compounds, as carbon sources and electron donors. Electron donors are incompletely oxidized either to acetate or to propionate, depending on the species and on the type of compound used. For growth on H
2
+ CO
2
and formate, acetate is required (chemolithoheterotrophic growth). Sulfate, sulfite, and thiosulfate serve as terminal electron acceptors and are reduced to H
2
S. One species can use brominated or iodinated phenols as electron acceptors. Fermentative growth might occur. Mesophilic. Optimal growth temperature, 28–30°C. Media containing a reductant and increased content of NaCl are necessary for growth. The genus
Desulfoluna
contains two described species.
Desulfoluna
species occur in marine or estuarine habitats and in marine sponges.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 57.2–62.0 (genome, LC).

Type species
:
Desulfoluna butyratoxydans
Suzuki, Ueki, Amaishi and Ueki 2008, 831
VP
.
D
esulforegula
Authors: Galushko Alexander , Kuever Jan
Published: October 2019

De.sul.fo.re'gu.la. L. pref.
de
from; L. neut. n.
sulfur
sulfur; N.L. pref.
desulfo
‐, desulfuricating (prefix used to characterize a dissimilatory sulfate‐reducing procaryote); L. fem. n.
regula
a straight piece of wood or ruler; N.L. fem. n.
Desulforegula
a sulfate‐reducing bacterium shaped like a ruler.

Desulfobacterota / Desulfobacteria / Desulfobacterales / Desulforegulaceae / Desulforegula

Rod‐shaped cells, 1–1.3 µm × 2.6–3.0 µm. Occur singly or in pairs. Spore formation is not observed. Gram‐stain‐negative. Motile. Strictly anaerobic, having a respiratory type of metabolism. Chemoorganoheterotrophs, using C
4
–C
17
straight‐chain fatty acids as carbon sources and electron donors; the ones with an even number of carbon atoms were oxidized to acetate and electron donors with an odd number of carbon atoms were oxidized to acetate and propionate. No other substrates known. Sulfate serves as terminal electron acceptor and is reduced to H
2
S. Sulfite, thiosulfate, and nitrate are not used as a terminal electron acceptors. Mesophilic. Neutrophilic. Optimal growth temperature, 25–30°C. Media containing a reductant and vitamins are necessary for growth. The genus
Desulforegula
contains one described species and occurs in anoxic freshwater sediments.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 42.4 (genome).

Type species
:
Desulforegula conservatrix
Rees and Patel 2001, 1915
VP
.
In Vitro Thrombogenicity Testing of Biomaterials
Authors: Braune Steffen , Latour Robert A. , Reinthaler Markus , Landmesser Ulf , Lendlein Andreas , Jung Friedrich
Published: October 2019

The short‐ and long‐term thrombogenicity of implant materials is still unpredictable, which is a significant challenge for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. A knowledge‐based approach for implementing biofunctions in materials requires a detailed understanding of the medical device in the biological system. In particular, the interplay between material and blood components/cells as well as standardized and commonly acknowledged in vitro test methods allowing a reproducible categorization of the material thrombogenicity requires further attention. Here, the status of in vitro thrombogenicity testing methods for biomaterials is reviewed, particularly taking in view the preparation of test materials and references, the selection and characterization of donors and blood samples, the prerequisites for reproducible approaches and applied test systems. Recent joint approaches in finding common standards for a reproducible testing are summarized and perspectives for a more disease oriented in vitro thrombogenicity testing are discussed.
Extracellular Trap‐Mimicking DNA‐Histone Mesostructures Synergistically Activate Dendritic Cells
Authors: Weerappuli Priyan D. , Louttit Cameron , Kojima Taisuke , Brennan Luke , Yalavarthi Srilakshmi , Xu Yao , Ochyl Lukasz J. , Maeda Midori L. , Kim Hong Sun , Knight Jason S. , Takayama Shuichi , Moon James J.
Published: October 2019

Extracellular traps (ETs), such as neutrophil extracellular traps, are a physical mesh deployed by immune cells to entrap and constrain pathogens. ETs are immunogenic structures composed of DNA, histones, and an array of variable protein and peptide components. While much attention has been paid to the multifaceted function of these structures, mechanistic studies of ETs remain challenging due to their heterogeneity and complexity. Here, a novel DNA‐histone mesostructure (DHM) formed by complexation of DNA and histones into a fibrous mesh is reported. DHMs mirror the DNA‐histone structural frame of ETs and offer a facile platform for cell culture studies. It is shown that DHMs are potent activators of dendritic cells and identify both the methylation state of DHMs and physical interaction between dendritic cells and DHMs as key tuning switches for immune stimulation. Overall, the DHM platform provides a new opportunity to study the role of ETs in immune activation and pathophysiology.
Direct Deposited Angstrom‐Scale Nanogap Electrodes with Macroscopically Measurable and Material‐Independent Capabilities for Various Applications
Authors: Li Nannan , Wang Jin , Zhang Binglei , Zhang Hao , Luo Yi
Published: October 2019

Nanogap electrodes (NGEs) with decreasing separations have received growing attention due to their potential in stimulating extensive applications with high scientific impact, including molecular electronics, quantum tunneling, plasmonic optics, and highly sensitive sequencing. Although various NGE‐manufacturing methods have been developed and offer promising results, angstrom‐scale NGEs have not been achieved without requiring sophisticated equipment, restricting materials or substrates, compromising mass‐fabrication compatibility, or/and failing to connect with macroscopic contacts. Here, macroscopically measurable and material‐independent NGEs with separations as low as to 6 angstroms have been achieved through a direct‐deposition technology that simultaneously addresses almost all of the issues mentioned above, highlighting the versatility of the formed NGEs, thus unlocking their full potential for application. The potential application in molecular electronics has been demonstrated experimentally. Importantly, the simple, low‐cost, lithography‐free and CMOS‐compatible fabrication technology will enable a breakthrough in NGE fabrication, enhancing the development of NGE‐related applications in various research fields.
Enhancing the Output Performance of Triboelectric Nanogenerator via Grating‐Electrode‐Enabled Surface Plasmon Excitation
Authors: Gao Lingxiao , Chen Xin , Lu Shan , Zhou Hong , Xie Weibo , Chen Junfei , Qi Mengke , Yu Hua , Mu Xiaojing , Wang Zhong Lin , Yang Ya
Published: October 2019

The surface charge density and the output impedance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are two critical factors for TENGs to speed up their commercialization, so it is important to explore unique methods to reduce the output impedance and increase the surface charge density. Here, an approach is demonstrated to effectively boost the output performance of TENG while reducing the output impedance of TENGs by utilizing grating‐electrode‐enabled surface plasmon excitation. A sustainable and enhanced output performance of about 40 µA (short‐circuit current) and 350 V (peak‐to‐peak voltage at a resistance of 10 MΩ) is produced via grating‐coupled surface plasmon resonance on the TENG with the aluminum grating electrode in the line density of 600 lines mm−1, and it delivers a peak output power of 3.6 mW under a loading resistance of 1 MΩ, giving over 4.5‐fold enhancement in output power and a 75% reduction in the output impedance. Finally a self‐powered ultrasonic ranging system is utilized to verify the capability of the TENG in powering portable electrics.
Experimental study of the effect of inclination angle on the minimum conveying velocity and the underlying mechanisms
Authors: Zhang Peng , Sheng Tao , Huang Zhengliang , Yang Yao , Sun Jingyuan , Wang Jingdai , Yang Yongrong , Huang Chenghao , Huang Zhixiong
Published: October 2019

This work investigated the effect of inclination angle on the minimum conveying velocity and the underlying mechanisms. Results showed that the pressure drop increased first and then decreased with the increasing inclination angle at the same mass flux and superficial gas velocity. The changing trend of minimum conveying velocity (umin) and the pressure drop near it can be divided into two types by taking 45° as the boundary, which was consistent with the difference in flow regimes near umin at different inclination angles based on results of high‐speed photography and acoustic emission detection. Furthermore, the pressure drop was decomposed to investigate the underlying mechanism of the changing trend of umin. Results showed that the changing trend of umin was closely related to the particle velocity and the particle velocity obtained by high‐speed photography was in good agreement with the theoretical analysis.
Higher rates of bleeding and use of treatment products among young boys compared to girls with von Willebrand disease
Authors: Abe Karon , Dupervil Brandi , O'Brien Sarah H. , Oakley Meredith , Kulkarni Roshni , Gill Joan Cox , Byams Vanessa , Soucie Michael J. ,   for the US Hemophilia Treatment Center Network
Published: October 2019

There are limited observational studies among children diagnosed with von Willebrand Disease (VWD). We analyzed differences in bleeding characteristics by sex and type of VWD using the largest reported surveillance database of children with VWD (n = 2712), ages 2 to 12 years old. We found that the mean ages of first bleed and diagnosis were lowest among children with type 3 VWD. It was even lower among boys than girls among all VWD types, with statistically significant difference among children with type 1 or type 3 VWD. Children with type 3 VWD also reported higher proportions of ever having a bleed compared to other VWD types, with statistically higher proportions of boys compared to girls reporting ever having a bleed with type 1 and type 2 VWD. A similar pattern was observed with the use of treatment product, showing higher usage among type 3 VWD, and among boys than girls with type 1 and type 2 VWD. While there were no differences in life quality or in well‐being status by sex, children with type 3 VWD showed a greater need for mobility assistance compared to children with type 1 and type 2 VWD. In an adjusted analysis among children with type 1 VWD, boys showed a significant association of ever bleeding [hazard ratio 1.4; P‐value <.001)] compared to girls. Understanding phenotypic bleeding characteristics, well‐being status, treatment, and higher risk groups for bleeding among pre‐adolescent children with VWD will aid physicians in efforts to educate families about bleeding symptoms.
Comparison of thermal, thermomechanical, and rheological properties of blends of divinylbenzene‐based hyperbranched and linear functionalized polymers
Authors: Kabir Sumaya F. , Adlington Kevin , Parsons Andrew J. , Ahmed Ifty , Irvine Derek J.
Published: October 2019

A range of polymer blends were prepared via a solvent‐based film casting process using highly/hyperbranched (HB) polydivinylbenzenes (PDVB) polymers of two different molecular weights, linear functionalized (LF), hydrogenated hyperbranched (H‐HB2) PDVB, and linear polystyrene (LP). The thermal, thermomechanical, and rheological properties of the pure polymers and blends were then investigated and the results related to the concentration of “branched” polymer in the blend and the level of branching/polymer end groups present in the “branched” polymers used. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed an increase of the glass transition temperature (Tg) for the blends containing the nonhydrogenated HBs (~108 °C compared to ~102 °C for LP), which was attributed to crosslinking via the unsaturated reactive chain end/pendant groups in the HB (CHCH2). In contrast at the blends, containing the hydrogenated polymers H‐HB2, exhibited the same Tg as LP (~102°C) due to absence of crosslinking from the (H‐HB2) polymer. As the unsaturated HBs were found to be thermally curable, curing temperature rheology measurements were carried out employing a temperature ramp. No specific Tgel (the temperature at which HB gets crosslinked) was identified for LP‐HB1 and LP‐HB2 blends, which might be suggested to be due to the fact that both chain entanglement from linear polystyrene. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48547.
Synthesis and properties of microencapsulated phase change material with a urea–formaldehyde resin shell and paraffin wax core
Authors: Huo Jin‐Hua , Peng Zhi‐Gang , Feng Qian
Published: October 2019

During this study, paraffin wax with low melting point was encapsulated in a urea–formaldehyde resin to prepare a novel microencapsulated phase change material (Micro‐P6) for temperature regulation and thermal energy storage. The structure and properties of Micro‐P6 were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimeter, laser particle size analyzer, thermogravimetric analysis, contact angle analysis, and scanning electron microscope. The results indicated that the chemical structure of Micro‐P6 meets the designed core–shell structure; and the paraffin wax with low melting point was successfully encapsulated by using urea–formaldehyde resin; and the Micro‐P6 shows a spherical structure and rough surface, and the average size is 8.0–10.0 μm. Then, the performances of Micro‐P6, such as core content, mechanical property, thermal conductivity and durability, were tested. Based on above characterization and performance test, it was indicated that the synthesized Micro‐P6 could be used in the field of cementing and construction for temperature regulation and thermal energy storage. The applications of Micro‐P6 in the field of cementing and construction will be completed in our next study. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48578.
Fast meteor tracking in noisy video sequences
Authors: Vítek Stanislav , Nasyrova Maria
Published: October 2019

Meteor recording, detection, and analysis is one of the traditional topics of astronomy. This paper deals with fast‐tracking of faint meteors and meteor showers in video sequences with high frame rates. Since meteors are fast optical events, the utilization of cameras with high frame rates and short exposure times is the standard technique of meteor tracks capture. Low efficiency of such camera systems is typically compensated with image intensifiers, mostly based on the microchannel plate (MCP). In this work, we use image data captured with the meteor automatic imager and analyzer, double‐station system dedicated for observing faint meteor showers. The system works with minimal human interaction, and it is necessary to automatically process (i.e., identify all meteor candidates) all captured data as fast as possible. Results show possible speed‐up of the image processing method when fluctuations of MCP are reduced.
Trend of antidepressants before, during, and after pregnancy across two decades—A population‐based study
Authors: Sun Yuelian , Dreier Julie Werenberg , Liu Xiaoqin , Glejsted Ingstrup Katja , Mægbæk Merete Lund , Munk‐Olsen Trine , Christensen Jakob
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Factors that influence antidepressant (AD) prescription and use during pregnancy are multiple including, in particular, the balance between the potential risk of untreated depression and the potential risk of AD treatment. Surveillance of temporal trends of AD use might identify areas requiring further research. We studied the use of ADs before, during, and after pregnancy using national data across two decades in Denmark.

Methods

We included 1,232,233 pregnancies leading to live birth in Denmark between 1 January 1997 and 31 December 2016. Information on redemption of AD prescriptions was obtained from the Danish National Prescription Register.

Results

We identified 29,504 (2.4%) pregnancies having at least one AD prescription (96,232 AD prescriptions) during pregnancy. The majority redeemed more than one prescription (69.7%) often for a single kind of AD (83.5%), and in 94% of the AD‐exposed pregnancies, the estimated duration of treatment was 1 month or longer. Prescription of ADs during pregnancy increased steadily from 0.4% in 1997 to 4.6% in 2011, but decreased thereafter to 3.1% in 2016. The proportion of pregnancies with ADs in 2011 was 6.05‐fold higher than that in 1997. The temporal trends in AD prescription in the years before and after pregnancy were similar to the trend during pregnancy. The decreasing use of ADs during pregnancy after 2011 was mainly driven by a decrease in the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), especially citalopram, the main type of SSRIs used in Denmark.

Conclusion

Prescription of ADs during pregnancy in Denmark increased steadily from 1997 to 2011 but decreased sharply thereafter. More research is needed to show whether the same trend exists in other populations, like women of reproductive age, men of reproductive age, and old people, and other countries. We also need to find explanation for the decreasing trend in recent years and potential risk for untreated depression.
Herniation of the transverse colon into the mediastinum after the use of an omental flap for mediastinitis
Authors: Ishimine Tohru , Nakasu Akio , Tengan Toshiho
Published: October 2019

We describe a rare complication, transverse colon herniation into the mediastinum, after the use of an omental flap. Adequate separation of the transverse colon from the omental flap and ensuring that the incision in the diaphragm is as small as possible are important preventive measures.
Therapist effects in yearlong psychodynamic therapy: An exploratory study
Authors: Yonatan‐Leus Refael , Tishby Orya , Abargil Maayan , Wiseman Hadas
Published: October 2019

A large body of research indicates that therapists can have a strong impact on treatment outcome, but little is known about the relationship between therapist effects and treatment phase. Our objective was to examine the interactive effect of therapist effectiveness and treatment phase on the outcome of 1 year of dynamic therapy. Therapists' effectiveness scores were defined as the extent of change for each therapist on the OQ‐45 scores across their clients at five time points. The sample included 24 therapists who conducted psychodynamic therapy with 65 clients in a naturalistic setting. A three‐level hierarchical linear model was applied. In accordance with the hypotheses, a significant main effect was found for effectiveness (estimate = 1.69, p < .05), for the two‐way interactions between effectiveness and time (estimate = 1.36, p < .01), and for effectiveness and initial severity of symptoms (estimate = −0.02, p < .05). Simple slope analysis was conducted showing that among the less effective therapists, no significant change in outcome was found as time progressed; among the more effective therapists, outcome improved as time progressed. In addition, therapists were more influential in the treatments of clients with low initial severity. Our findings lend some support to the notion that therapist effects become increasingly influential as therapy progresses. The findings highlight the need for further research into changes in the magnitude of therapists' effect in various phases of therapy. Furthermore, the severity level of the initial symptoms of the client should be taken into account.
Recent Progress in Organic Phototransistors: Semiconductor Materials, Device Structures and Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Huang Xianhui , Ji Deyang , Fuchs Harald , Hu Wenping , Li Tao
Published: October 2019

Phototransistors combine light detection and signal amplification functions into a single device and are regarded as one of the most important components for optoelectronic integration. In recent years, organic phototransistors (OPTs) have attracted worldwide interest because of their potential advantages of low cost, light weight, excellent flexibility and broadband detection. In this review, a brief description of the working mechanisms and performance metrics of OPTs is presented. Afterwards, the recent progress of OPTs based on the conventional planar field‐effect transistor structure is presented. Furthermore, from the perspective of novel device architectures and interface engineering, strategies for improving the performance of OPTs are discussed. Flexible optoelectronic devices based on OPTs for potential application in next‐generation wearable and human‐friendly electronics are also highlighted. Finally, an outlook for future research directions and challenges for OPTs is provided.
More efficient time integration for Fourier pseudospectral DNS of incompressible turbulence
Authors: Ketcheson David I. , Mortensen Mikael , Parsani Matteo , Schilling Nathanael
Published: October 2019

Time integration of Fourier pseudospectral DNS is usually performed using the classical fourth‐order accurate Runge‐Kutta method or other second‐ or third‐order methods, with a fixed step size. We investigate the use of higher‐order Runge‐Kutta pairs and automatic step size control based on local error estimation. We find that the fifth‐order accurate Runge‐Kutta pair of Bogacki and Shampine gives much greater accuracy at a significantly reduced computational cost. Specifically, we demonstrate speedups of 2× to 10× for the same accuracy. Numerical tests (including the Taylor‐Green vortex, Rayleigh‐Taylor instability, and homogeneous isotropic turbulence) confirm the reliability and efficiency of the method. We also show that adaptive time stepping provides a significant computational advantage for some problems (like the development of a Rayleigh‐Taylor instability) without compromising accuracy.
Characterization of sudden and sustained base flow jump hydrologic behaviour in the humid seasonal tropics of the Panama Canal Watershed
Authors: Cheng Yanyan , Ogden Fred L. , Zhu Jianting
Published: October 2019

Base flows are important for tropical regions with pronounced dry seasons, which are facing increasing water demands. Base flow generation, however, is one of the most challenging hydrological processes to characterize in the tropics. In many years during the May–December wet season in the Panama Canal Watershed (PCW), base flows in rivers abruptly increase. This increase persists until the start of the December–April dry season. Understanding this unusual base flow jump (BFJ) behaviour is critical to improve water provisioning in the seasonal tropics, especially during droughts and extended dry seasons. This study developed an integrated approach combining piecewise regression on cumulative average base flow and sensitivity analysis to calculate the timing and magnitude of BFJ. Rainfall, forest cover, mean land surface slope, catchment area, and estimated subsurface storage were tested as predictors for the occurrence and magnitude of the BFJs in seven subcatchments of the PCW. Sensitivity analysis on correlated predictors allowed ranking of predictor contributions due to isolated and cross‐correlation effects. Correlations between observed BFJs and BFJs predicted by watershed and rainfall‐related predictors were 0.92 and 0.65 for BFJ timing and magnitude, respectively. Forest cover was the second most significant predictor after cumulative rainfall for jump magnitude, owing to larger subsurface storage and groundwater recharge in forests than pastures. Catchments in the mountainous eastern PCW always generated larger jumps due to their higher rainfall and greater forest cover than the western PCW catchments. The cross‐correlations between predictors contributed to more than 50% of the jump variances. The results demonstrate the importance of rainfall gradient and catchment characteristics in affecting the sudden and sustained BFJs, which can help inform land management decisions intended to enhance water supplies in the tropics. This study underscores the need for more research to further understand the hydrological processes involved in the BFJ phenomenon, including better BFJ models and field characterizations, to help improve tropical ecosystem services under a changing environment.
Study on the nematicidal activity and chemical structure of NO bidentate Schiff base some metal complexes
Authors: El‐Attar Mohamed S. , Abd El‐Lattif Nosa S. , Sadeek Sadeek A.
Published: October 2019

A series of Co(II), Cu(II), Y(III), Zr(IV), La(III), and U(VI) complexes derived from 2‐(2‐hydroxybenzylidinemine)‐benzoic acid (L) ligand were synthesized. The mode of bonding of L and the structure of its metal complexes were investigated using different analytical and spectral tools (FT‐IR, UV–Vis, 1H NMR, mass, and XRD). The ligand chelated with the metal ions as a neutral bidentate through oxygen and azomethine nitrogen atoms. All metal complexes adopted octahedral geometry with characteristic color for metal ions. The results of magnetic moment measurements supported paramagnetic for some complexes (Co(II) and Cu(II)) and diamagnetic phenomena for the other complexes. The thermal decomposition of the ligand along with its metal complexes was explained. The molar conductance values of all complexes in (DMF) were found in the range 154.50 to 250.20 S cm2 mol−1 at room temperature. The activation thermodynamic parameters, such as E*, ΔH*, ΔS* and ΔG*, were calculated from the DTG curves using Coats–Redfern (CR) and Horowitz–Metzeger (HM) methods at n = 1 or n ≠ 1. The nematicidal activity of the synthesized L and their metal complexes was screened.
Post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis in single‐stage endoscopic common bile duct stone removal
Authors: Saito Hirokazu , Koga Takehiko , Sakaguchi Masafumi , Kadono Yoshihiro , Kamikawa Kentaro , Urata Atsushi , Imamura Haruo , Tada Shuji , Kakuma Tatsuyuki , Matsushita Ikuo
Published: October 2019

Background and Aims

Papillary treatment, such as endoscopic sphincterotomy or endoscopic papillary balloon dilation, and subsequent single‐stage endoscopic stone removal are often performed for choledocholithiasis; however, the incidence of postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP) is unclear. This study aimed to compare the overall incidence of PEP between single‐ and two‐stage stone removal groups and the incidence of PEP between these two groups based on cannulation time.

Methods

We included 897 patients with native papilla who underwent papillary treatment and stone removal for choledocholithiasis with no inflammation or mild‐to‐moderate acute cholangitis at three institutions between April 2012 and March 2018 in Japan. We performed a propensity‐matched analysis and regression adjustment by propensity score to adjust for potential confounding factors.

Results

In the propensity‐matched analysis with 234 pairs, there was no significant difference in the overall incidence of PEP between single‐ and two‐stage stone removal procedures (15/234, 6.4% vs 6/234, 2.6%, P = 0.072, respectively). Although single‐stage stone removal after a cannulation time of ≤15 min was not a significant risk factor of PEP, the procedure after a cannulation time of >15 min was a significant risk factor of PEP as estimated by regression adjustment by propensity score (P = 0.014, 95% CI = 1.4–19.4, odds ratio = 5.2).

Conclusions

Single‐stage endoscopic stone removal after a long cannulation time of >15 min increased the incidence of PEP compared with the two‐stage stone removal procedure. Thus, single‐stage stone removal should be performed in patients with a cannulation time ≤ 15 min.
From registration to publication: A study on Dutch academic randomized controlled trials
Authors: Huiskens Joost , Kool Boudewijn R.J. , Bakker Jean‐Michel , Bruns Emma R.J. , de Jonge Stijn W. , Olthof Pim B. , van Rosmalen Belle V. , van Gulik Thomas M. , Hooft Lotty , Punt Cornelis J.A.
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Registration of clinical trials has been initiated in order to assess adherence of the reported results to the original trial protocol. This study aimed to investigate the publication rates, timely dissemination of results, and the prevalence of consistency in hypothesis, sample size, and primary endpoint of Dutch investigator‐initiated randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs).

Methods

All Dutch investigator‐initiated RCTs with a completion date between December 31, 2010, and January 1, 2012, and registered in the Trial Register of The Netherlands database were included. PubMed was searched for the publication of these RCT results until September 2016, and the time to the publication date was calculated. Consistency in hypothesis, sample size, and primary endpoint compared with the registry data were assessed.

Results

The search resulted in a total of 168 Dutch investigator‐initiated RCTs. In September 2016, the results of 129 (77%) trials had been published, of which 50 (39%) within 2 years after completion of accrual. Consistency in hypothesis with the original protocol was observed in 108 (84%) RCTs; in 71 trials (55%), the planned sample size was reached; and 103 trials (80%) presented the original primary endpoint. Consistency in all three parameters was observed in 50 studies (39%).

Conclusion

This study shows that approximately one out of four Dutch investigator‐initiated RCTs remains unpublished 5 years after initiation. The observed low overall consistency with the initial study outline is a matter of concern and warrants improvements in trial design and assessment of trial feasibility.
Sulfur bentonite‐organic‐based fertilizers as tool for improving bio‐compounds with antioxidant activities in red onion
Authors: Muscolo Adele , Papalia Teresa , Settineri Giovanna , Mallamaci Carmelo , Panuccio Maria R
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Red onion is popular in cuisines worldwide and is valued for its potential medicinal properties. Red onion is an important source of several phytonutrients such as flavonoids, thiosulfinates and other sulfur compounds, recognized as important elements of the diet. Nowadays, there is the need of producing food enriched in health benefit compounds. In this study, pads of sulfur bentonite (SB) with the addition of orange residue (OR) or olive pomace (OP) were used to improve the quality of red onion. The experiment was conducted for 3 months in the field to evaluate the phytochemicals of differently amended red onion.

RESULTS

Treated plants were better in quality than controls. Antioxidant activity, detected as DPPH, ORAC and ABTS, was highest in plants grown in the presence of SB enriched with agricultural wastes, particularly SB‐OR. Polyphenols increased in all treated plants. The volatile fraction was clearly dominated by sulfur compounds that are strictly related to the concentration of the aroma precursorsS‐alkenyl cysteine sulfoxides. The greater amount of thiosulfinates in treated compared with untreated onion evidenced that SB pelletized with agricultural wastes can represent a new formulation of organic fertilizer able to improve the beneficial properties of onion. The results highlighted that the best red onion quality was obtained using SB‐OR pads.

CONCLUSION

The use of SB bound with agricultural wastes represents a novel strategy to increase bio‐compounds with beneficial effects on human health, to enhance the medical and economic values of sulfur‐loving crops, with important consequences on the bio and green economy. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Alkaloid purification using rosin‐based polymer‐bonded silica stationary phase in HPLC
Authors: Sun Yao , Li Pengfei , Wang Ting , Qin Liting , Cheng Gege , Shen Liqun , Yao Xingdong , Wei Shaoping , Jiang Jianxin , Lei Fuhou
Published: October 2019

Alkaloids are important natural products that exhibit a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities. To efficiently separate and purify them, a rosin‐based polymer‐bonded silica stationary phase in high‐performance liquid chromatography was synthesized via the surface radical polymerization of ethylene glycol maleic rosinate acrylate and methacrylic acid onto functionalized silica. The stationary phases, columns, optimization of chromatographic conditions for alkaloids, and thermodynamic behavior of the analytes on the column were fully studied. Under the optimized conditions, the prepared column efficiently purified natural camptothecine, caffeine, and evodiamine with the corresponding purities of 92, 96, and 97%. With this work, we have developed an efficient approach to isolate alkaloids and promoted the research on rosin‐based materials in biomedicine and analytical chemistry.
Treatment Responsiveness of Motor Features in Parkinson's Disease: A Matched Case‐Control Analysis
Authors: Macleod Angus D. , Counsell Carl E.
Published: October 2019

Background

Treatment response in PD is important clinically and for research diagnostic criteria, but few objective data show treatment‐responsiveness of PD motor features.

Objectives

To evaluate the treatment response of motor features to moderate treatment doses in a “real‐world” PD cohort.

Methods

We analyzed data from a community‐based incident cohort of PD in North‐East Scotland (PINE study). We assessed change in the UPDRS motor scale and its individual items over a period of up to 13 months comparing (1) patients with an increase of at least 300 mg of levodopa‐equivalent dose (LED) and (2) patients without treatment change, matched for age, sex, and disease duration.

Results

We identified 101 matched pairs of patients with and without a treatment increase. LED increases were mostly 300 to 375 mg/day. Forty‐two percent with treatment increase had ≥30% improvement in overall UPDRS motor score, a further 35% had substantial subjective improvement, but only 1 had an objective excellent (>70%) treatment response. Women responded better than men by 5.4 points (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.7–8.1). All motor features improved with treatment, but after adjustment for age, sex, and initial score, only rest tremor (P < 0.001), rigidity (P = 0.01), bradykinesia (<0.001), posture (P = 0.01), and gait (P = 0.03) had significant improvements, compared to those with no treatment change. Dopa‐less‐responsive motor items, taken together, had small statistically significant relative improvements (1.1‐point difference [95% CI: 0.4–1.8]; P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Motor items sometimes previously considered dopa unresponsive have small improvements with moderate LED increases. Women respond better than men. Excellent treatment responses are uncommon. These data can inform clinical decisions about treatment.
Breather wave solutions for the Kadomtsev‐Petviashvili equation with variable coefficients in a fluid based on the variable‐coefficient three‐wave approach
Authors: Liu Jian‐Guo , Zhu Wen‐Hui , Zhou Li
Published: October 2019

Herein, the Kadomtsev‐Petviashvili equation with variable coefficients is investigated, which describes the long waves with small amplitude and slow dependence on the transverse coordinate in a single‐layer shallow fluid. Breather wave solutions are obtained based on a variable‐coefficient three‐wave approach. The dynamical behaviors of the obtained solutions are graphically discussed for different choices of the free parameters in these solutions.
Applied Thermodynamics for Process Modeling in Catalytic Gas Phase Olefin Polymerization Reactors
Authors: Bashir Muhammad Ahsan , Kanellopoulos Vasileios , Al‐haj Ali Mohammad , McKenna Timothy F.L.
Published: October 2019

The Sanchez–Lacombe Equation of State (SL EoS) is used to model the solubility of different industrial alkane penetrants in polyethylene to explain the importance of considering different diluents for different processes, and the impact that this choice can have on operating conditions, especially for the production of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). Extension of this approach to ternary (ethylene/penetrant/LLDPE) systems shows the effect of composition of penetrant/ethylene mixtures on the solubility of such mixtures in LLDPE and swelling of the polymer phase at conditions of industrial relevance. This analysis reveals that using a constant polymer density instead of that predicted by the SL EoS can result in erroneous calculations of the particle size distribution developments in an olefin polymerization reactor.
Influence of inclination angles and confining pressures on mechanical behavior of rock materials containing a preexisting crack
Authors: Zhao Cheng , Zhou Yimeng , Zhang Qingzhao , Zhao Chunfeng , Matsuda Hiroshi
Published: October 2019

To deeply understand the cracking mechanical behavior of brittle rock materials, numerical simulations of a rock specimen containing a single preexisting crack were carried out by the expanded distinct element method (EDEM). Based on the analysis of crack tips and a comparison between stress‐ and strain‐based methods, the strain strength criterion was adopted in the numerical models to simulate the crack initiation and propagation processes under uniaxial and biaxial compression. The simulation results indicated that the crack inclination angle and confining pressure had a great influence on the tensile and shear properties, peak strength, and failure behaviors, which also showed a good agreement with the experimental results. If the specimen was under uniaxial compression, it was found that the initiation stress and peak strength first decreased and then increased with an increasing inclination angle α. Regardless of the size of α, tensile cracks initiated prior to shear cracks. If α was small (such as α ≤ 30°), the tensile cracks dominated the specimen failure, the wing cracks propagated towards the direction of uniaxial compression, and the propagation of shear cracks was inhibited by the high concentration of tensile stress. In contrast, if α was large (such as α ≥ 45°), mixed cracks dominated the specimen failure, and the external loading favored the further propagation of shear cracks. Analyzing the numerical results of the specimen with a 45° inclination angle under biaxial compression, it was revealed that lateral confinement had a significant influence on the initiation sequence and the mechanical properties of new cracks.
Assessment of Fracture Toughness in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Nobile Stefano , Nobile Lucio
Published: October 2019

The fracture mechanisms affecting bone tissue can be described as a damage accumulation process due to the initiation and propagation of microcracks. Fracture risk does not solely depend on strength but also on fracture toughness. To replace damaged bone or cartilage tissues, hydrogels are required to provide appropriate stiffness or deformation properties as well as resistance to fracture. However, failure properties, such as the resistance to fracture, must be evaluated by fracture toughness techniques. Microindentation has emerged as a novel technique for the measurement of material properties of cortical bone. The application of this test for fracture toughness determination in these tissues can become widespread because of the simplicity of the test. The aims of this article are to discuss clinical application of fracture toughness analysis and to present a well tested and more realistic approach for estimating fracture toughness in bone. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:2402–2405, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Supervised Multidimensional Item Response Theory Modeling of Pediatric Iatrogenic Withdrawal Symptoms
Authors: Goulooze Sebastiaan C. , Ista Erwin , van Dijk Monique , Hankemeier Thomas , Tibboel Dick , Knibbe Catherijne A.J. , Krekels Elke H.J.
Published: October 2019

Item‐level data from composite scales can be analyzed with pharmacometric item response theory (IRT) models to improve the quantification of disease severity compared with the use of total composite scores. However, regular IRT models assume unidimensionality, which is violated in the scale measuring iatrogenic withdrawal in children because some items are also affected by pain, undersedation, or delirium. Here, we compare regular IRT modelling of pediatric iatrogenic withdrawal symptom data with two new analysis approaches in which the latent variable is guided towards the condition of interest using numerical withdrawal severity scored by nurses as a “supervising variable:” supervised IRT (sIRT) and supervised multi‐dimensional (smIRT) modelling. In this example, in which the items scores are affected by multiple conditions, regular IRT modeling is worse to quantify disease severity than the total composite score, whereas improved performance compared with the composite score is observed for the sIRT and smIRT models.
The Role of Trait and State Perfectionism in Psychological Detachment From Daily Job Demands
Authors: Reis Dorota , Prestele Elisabeth
Published: October 2019

Psychological detachment has been proposed to be a mediator of the relations between an individual's responses to stressful work‐related experiences and mid‐ and long‐term health. However, the number of studies that have specifically examined the role that personal characteristics play in these associations is considerably small. One personal characteristic that might specifically interfere with psychological detachment is perfectionism, which has been considered an important vulnerability factor for the development of psychological disorders. Hence, the goal of this registered report was to extend research on psychological detachment by introducing trait and state perfectionism as moderators of the aforementioned relations. We conducted an experience sampling study with three measurement occasions per day over the course of 3 working weeks (N = 158 employees; Mage = 41.6; 67% women). Multilevel path models showed that perfectionistic concerns consistently determined strain responses at between‐ and within‐levels of analyses even after the effects of job demands (i.e., unfinished tasks and role ambiguity) and detachment were accounted for. However, we found no evidence for the proposed moderation effects. The theoretical implications for the understanding of the processes proposed in the stressor‐detachment model are discussed.
Functionalized DNA Enables Programming Exosomes/Vesicles for Tumor Imaging and Therapy
Authors: Fan Zhijin , Xiao Keng , Lin Jingyan , Liao Yuhui , Huang Xi
Published: October 2019

Exosomes serve as significant information carriers that regulate important physiological and pathological processes. Herein, functionalized DNA is engineered to be a hinge that anchors quantum dots (QDs) onto the surface of exosomes, realizing a moderate and biocompatible labeling strategy. The QDs‐labeled exosomes (exosome–DNA–QDs complex) can be swiftly engulfed by tumor cells, indicating that exosome–DNA–QDs can be applied as a specific agent for tumor labeling. Furthermore, the engineered artificial vesicles of M1 macrophages (M1mv) are constructed via a pneumatic liposome extruder. The results reveal that the individual M1mv can kill tumor cells and realize desirable biological treatment. To reinforce the antitumor efficacy of M1mv and the specificity of drug release, a target‐triggered drug delivery system is constructed to realize a specific microRNA‐responded delivery system for visual therapy of tumors. These strategies facilitate moderate labeling and functionalization of exosomes/vesicles and construct artificial drug‐delivery vesicles that simultaneously possess biological treatment and chemotherapy functions, and thus have the potential to serve as a new paradigm for tumor labeling and therapy.
Impact of maternal obesity on fetal cardiac screening: which follow‐up strategy is cost‐effective?
Authors: Bak G. S. , Shaffer B. L. , Madriago E. , Allen A. , Kelly B. , Caughey A. B. , Pereira L.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To perform a cost‐effectiveness analysis of different follow‐up strategies for non‐obese and obese women who had incomplete fetal cardiac screening for major congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods

Three decision‐analytic models, one each for non‐obese, obese and Class‐III‐obese women, were developed to compare five follow‐up strategies for initial suboptimal fetal cardiac screening. The five strategies were: (1) no follow‐up ultrasound (US) examination but direct referral to fetal echocardiography (FE); (2) one follow‐up US, then FE if fetal cardiac views were still suboptimal; (3) up to two follow‐up US, then FE if fetal cardiac views were still suboptimal; (4) one follow‐up US and no FE; and (5) up to two follow‐up US and no FE. The models were designed to identify fetuses with major CHD in a theoretical cohort of 4 000 000 births in the USA. Outcomes related to neonatal mortality and neurodevelopmental disability were evaluated. A cost‐effectiveness willingness‐to‐pay threshold was set at US$100 000 per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY). Base‐case and sensitivity analysis and Monte‐Carlo simulation were performed.

Results

In our base‐case models for all body mass index (BMI) groups, no follow‐up US, but direct referral to FE led to the best outcomes, detecting 7%, 25% and 82% more fetuses with CHD in non‐obese, obese and Class‐III‐obese women, respectively, compared with the baseline strategy of one follow‐up US and no FE. However, no follow‐up US, but direct referral to FE was above the US$100 000/QALY threshold and therefore not cost‐effective. The cost‐effective strategy for all BMI groups was one follow‐up US and no FE. Both up to two follow‐up US with no FE and up to two follow‐up US with FE were dominated (being more costly and less effective), while one follow‐up US with FE was over the cost‐effectiveness threshold. One follow‐up US and no FE was the optimal strategy in 97%, 93% and 86% of trials in Monte‐Carlo simulation for non‐obese, obese and Class‐III‐obese models, respectively.

Conclusion

For both non‐obese and obese women with incomplete fetal cardiac screening, the optimal CHD follow‐up screening strategy is no further US and immediate referral to FE; however, this strategy is not cost‐effective. Considering costs, one follow‐up US and no FE is the preferred strategy. For both obese and non‐obese women, Monte‐Carlo simulations showed clearly that one follow‐up US and no FE was the optimal strategy. Both non‐obese and obese women with initial incomplete cardiac screening examination should therefore be offered one follow‐up US. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
$$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 Liouville SCFT in four dimensions
Authors: Levy Tom , Oz Yaron , Raviv-Moshe Avia
Published: October 2019

Abstract

We construct a Liouville superconformal field theory with eight real supercharges in four dimensions. The Liouville superfield is an

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 chiral superfield with sixteen bosonic and sixteen fermionic component fields. Its lowest component is a logcorrelated complex scalar field whose real part carries a background charge. The theory is non-unitary with a continuous spectrum of scaling dimensions. We study its quantum dynamics on the supersymmetric 4-sphere and show that the classical background charge is not corrected quantum mechanically. We calculate the super-Weyl anomaly coefficients and find that c vanishes, while a is negative and depends on the background charge. We derive an integral expression for the correlation functions of superfield vertex operators in

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 superspace and analyze them in the semiclassical approximation by using a quaternionic formalism for the

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 superconformal algebra.