bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fine dissection of the tarsal tunnel in 60 cases
Authors: Yang Y. , Du M. L. , Fu Y. S. , Liu W. , Xu Q. , Chen X. , Hao Y. J. , Liu Z. , Gao M. J.
Published: April 2017

The fine dissection of nerves and blood vessels in the tarsal tunnel is necessary for clinical operations to provide anatomical information. A total of 60 feet from 30 cadavers were dissected. Two imaginary reference lines that passed through the tip of the medial malleolus were applied. A detailed description of the branch pattern and the corresponding position of the posterior tibial nerve, posterior tibial artery, medial calcaneal nerve and medial calcaneal artery was provided, and the measured data were analyzed. Our results can be summarized as follows. I. A total of 81.67% of the bifurcation points of the posterior tibial nerve, which was divided into the medial and lateral plantar nerves, were located within the tarsal tunnel, not distal to the tarsal tunnel. II. The bifurcation points of the posterior tibial artery were all located in the tarsal tunnel. Almost all of the bifurcation points of the posterior tibial artery were lower than those of the posterior tibial nerve. The bifurcation point of the posterior tibial artery situated distal to the tarsal tunnel was not found. III. The number and the origin of the medial calcaneal nerves and arteries were highly variable.
Correction: Corrigendum: Differential neural mechanisms for early and late prediction error detection
Authors: Malekshahi Rahim , Seth Anil , Papanikolaou Amalia , Mathews Zenon , Birbaumer Niels , Verschure Paul F. M. J. , Caria Andrea
Published: April 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 24350; published online: 15 April 2016; updated: 11 April 2017 In this Article, an additional affiliation for Paul F.M.J. Verschure was omitted. The correct affiliations for Paul F.M.J. Verschure are listed below: SPECS, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.
The histamine H3 receptor antagonist thioperamide rescues circadian rhythm and memory function in experimental parkinsonism
Authors: Masini D , Lopes-Aguiar C , Bonito-Oliva A , Papadia D , Andersson R , Fisahn A , Fisone G
Published: April 2017

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by motor impairment and a wide range of non-motor symptoms, including sleep disorders and cognitive and affective deficits. In this study, we used a mouse model of PD based on 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) to examine the effect of thioperamide, a histamine H3 receptor antagonist, on circadian activity, recognition memory and anxiety. A partial, bilateral 6-OHDA lesion of the striatum reduces motor activity during the active phase of the 24 h cycle. In addition, the lesion disrupts the endogenous circadian rhythm observed when mice are maintained in constant darkness. Administration of thioperamide to 6-OHDA-lesion mice rescues the normal rest/activity cycle. Moreover, thioperamide counteracts the deficit of novel object recognition produced by 6-OHDA. Our experiments show that this memory impairment is accompanied by disrupted gamma oscillations in the hippocampus, which are also rescued by thioperamide. In contrast, we do not observe any modification of the anxiogenic effect of 6-OHDA in response to administration of thioperamide. Our results indicate that thioperamide may act as a multifunctional drug, able to counteract disruptions of circadian rhythm and cognitive deficits associated with PD.
Edge effect detection for real-time cellular analyzer using statistical analysis
Authors: Chen Yinghao , Chen Shan , Pan Tianhong , Zou Xiaobo
Published: April 2017

The Smirnov test is used to detect the edge effect, which can help technicians rapidly screen valid time-dependent cellular response curves (TCRCs) in the real time cellular analyzers (RTCA).
Biodegradation of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons using the filamentous fungus Penicillium sp. CHY-2 and characterization of its manganese peroxidase activity
Authors: Govarthanan Muthusamy , Fuzisawa Soichiro , Hosogai Toshiki , Chang Young-Cheol
Published: April 2017

A novel fungal strain,Penicilliumsp. CHY-2, isolated from Antarctic soils, was effective for the degradation of decane at lower (20 °C) and medium (30 °C) temperatures.
The relationship between the perfusion index and precision of noninvasive blood component measurement based on dynamic spectroscopy
Authors: Feng Ximeng , Yu Haixia , Yi Xiaoqing , Wang Shaohui , Li Gang , Lin Ling
Published: April 2017

Noninvasive blood component measurement is a relevant topic in biomedical engineering.
Identification of Annexin A2 as a target protein for plant alkaloid matrine
Authors: Wang Dongyao , Cao Yan , Zheng Leyi , Lv Diya , Chen Langdong , Xing Xinrui , Zhu Zhenyu , Li Xiaoyu , Chai Yifeng
Published: April 2017

The cellular target of matrine is identified.
Sugar–peptidic bond interactions: spectroscopic characterization of a model system
Authors: Camiruaga Ander , Usabiaga Imanol , Insausti Aran , León Iker , Fernández José A.
Published: April 2017

Sugars are small carbohydrates which play numerous roles in living organisms such as storage of energy or as structural components. In this work, we characterize the interactions between a sugar and a peptide fragment.
Highly crystalline PtCu nanotubes with three dimensional molecular accessible and restructured surface for efficient catalysis
Authors: Li Hui-Hui , Fu Qi-Qi , Xu Liang , Ma Si-Yue , Zheng Ya-Rong , Liu Xiao-Jing , Yu Shu-Hong
Published: April 2017

We reveal a highly active and durable class of electrocatalysts with connected single-crystalline nanoparticles, forming an open architecture. The MOR activity could be recovered to the initial value or even betterviasimple potential cycling after durability test.
Cellulose acetate as a convenient intermediate for the preparation of 5-acetoxymethylfurfural from biomass
Authors: Gavilà Llorenç , Esposito Davide
Published: April 2017

A new method for the synthesis of AMF based on the acetolysis of cellulose acetate is reported. Cellulose acetate prepared by wood acetylation can be applied as a precursor, offering possibilities for integrated biomass processing.
Eu-Based MOF/graphene oxide composite: a novel photocatalyst for the oxidation of benzyl alcohol using water as oxygen source
Authors: Cai Jia , Lu Jin-Ye , Chen Qiu-Yun , Qu Ling-Ling , Lu Yu-Qing , Gao Guo-Fang
Published: April 2017

An Eu-based MOF/graphene oxide composite is an efficient photocatalyst for the oxidation of benzyl alcohol using water as an oxygen source.
Systematic synthesis of pectin-g-(sodium acrylate-co-N-isopropylacrylamide) interpenetrating polymer network for superadsorption of dyes/M(ii): determination of physicochemical changes in loaded hydrogels
Authors: Singha Nayan Ranjan , Karmakar Mrinmoy , Mahapatra Manas , Mondal Himarati , Dutta Arnab , Roy Chandan , Chattopadhyay Pijush Kanti
Published: April 2017

Superadsorbent hydrogel with excellent physicochemical properties is used for mere/synergic chemisorption of dyes and M(ii).
Diels–Alder cycloaddition and RAFT chain end functionality: an elegant route to fullerene end-capped polymers with control over molecular mass and architecture
Authors: Isakova Anna , Burton Christian , Nowakowski Daniel J. , Topham Paul D.
Published: April 2017

Fullerene C60 end-capped polymers are synthesised using RAFT chain end functionality and Diels–Alder reaction with excellent yield and composition control.
A “green” method for preparing ABCBA penta-block elastomers by using RAFT emulsion polymerization
Authors: Qiao Zhi , Qiu Teng , Liu Weiwei , Zhang Liangdong , Tu Jinqiang , Guo Longhai , Li Xiaoyu
Published: April 2017

A clean method for preparing ABCBA penta-block terpolymers was developed in a surfactant and organic solvent free emulsion system via one-pot RAFT polymerization.
A contact study in hole conductor free perovskite solar cells with low temperature processed carbon electrodes
Authors: Li J. , Yao J. X. , Liao X. Y. , Yu R. L. , Xia H. R. , Sun W. T. , Peng L. M.
Published: April 2017

(a) A schematic structure of the perovskite solar cell device and (b) the corresponding energy band diagram and the carrier transport process.
Ultrathin TiO2nanosheets synthesized using a high pressure solvothermal method and the enhanced photoresponse performance of CH3NH3PbI3–TiO2composite films
Authors: Jiao Shilong , Fu Xianwei , Lian Gang , Jing Laiying , Xu Zhenghao , Wang Qilong , Cui Deliang
Published: April 2017

Highly crystalline ultrathin (2–3 nm) TiO2nanosheets are synthesized using a high pressure solvothermal method. The perovskite–TiO2films exhibit strikingly enhanced photoresponse performance.
Multiwalled carbon nanotube-supported CuCo2S4 as a heterogeneous Fenton-like catalyst with enhanced performance
Authors: Zhang Mai , Annamalai K. P. , Liu Lile , Chen Tianlu , Gao Jianping , Tao Yousheng
Published: April 2017

CuCo2S4/MWCNTs, an enhanced Fenton-like catalyst, exhibited a high catalytic rate, broad pH tolerance and good reusability.
Surface patterning of single-walled carbon nanotubes enhances their perturbation on a pulmonary surfactant monolayer: frustrated translocation and bilayer vesiculation
Authors: Yue Tongtao , Xu Yan , Li Shixin , Luo Zhen , Zhang Xianren , Huang Fang
Published: April 2017

In contrast to SWCNTs with unique surface properties, the surface patterning of SWCNTs is found to enhance their perturbation on the pulmonary surfactantsviafrustrated translocation and destructive bilayer vesiculation.
Construction of biomimetic long-circulation delivery platform encapsulated by zwitterionic polymers for enhanced penetration of blood–brain barrier
Authors: Wang Nan , Jin Xin , Zhu Xinyuan
Published: April 2017

A core–shell protein-based long circulation delivery platform has been constructed for enhanced penetration of the blood–brain barrier.
Two decades of antifilarial drug discovery: a review
Authors: Sangshetti Jaiprakash N. , Shinde Devanand B. , Kulkarni Abhishek , Arote Rohidas
Published: April 2017

Filariasis is one of the oldest, most debilitating, disabling, and disfiguring neglected tropical diseases with various clinical manifestations and a low rate of mortality, but has a high morbidity rate, which results in social stigma.
Evaluation of optical properties and chemical structure changes in enzymatic hydrolysis lignin during heat treatment
Authors: Li Neng , Chen Yuhe , Yu Hui , Xiong Fuquan , Yu Wenji , Bao Minzhen , Wu Zaixing , Huang Chengjian , Rao Fei , Li Jianzhang , Bao Yongjie
Published: April 2017

Heat treatment is an excellent method of improving the properties of wood.
Multidimensional structure and enhancement performance of modified graphene/carbon nanotube assemblies in tribological properties of polyimide nanocomposites
Authors: Xin Yuanshi , Li Tongsheng , Xu Fanglin , Wang Mingming
Published: April 2017

Modified graphene/carbon nanotube assemblies with diverse structures were prepared by chemical compounding and their structure-related tribological performance was investigated.
Ferromagnetic behavior of non-stoichiometric ZnS microspheres with a nanoplate-netted surface
Authors: Dong Jing , Zeng Xianghua , Xia Weiwei , Zhang Xiuyun , Zhou Min , Wang Caixia
Published: April 2017

(A) SEM images of undoped ZnS microspheres; (B) M–H magnetic hysteresis loops for the atomic ratio of Zn to S equal to 0.966 (black line) and 1.32 (blue line).
Reactivity studies on [Cp′Fe(μ-I)]2: nitrido-, sulfido- and diselenide iron complexes derived from pseudohalide activation
Authors: Reiners Matthias , Maekawa Miyuki , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Freytag Matthias , Jones Peter G. , White Peter S. , Hohenberger Johannes , Sutter Jörg , Meyer Karsten , Maron Laurent , Walter Marc D.
Published: April 2017

Facile pseudohalide activation occurs in the reaction of SCN−, SeCN−and N3−with the iron half-sandwich [Cp′Fe(μ-I)]2.
Rapamycin efficiently promotes cardiac differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Lu Qin , Liu Yinan , Wang Yang , Wang Weiping , Yang Zhe , Li Tao , Tian Yuyao , Chen Ping , Ma Kangtao , Jia Zhuqing , Zhou Chunyan
Published: April 2017

To investigate the effects of rapamycin on cardiac differentiation, murine embryonic stem cells (ESCs) were induced into cardiomyocytes by 10−4 M ascorbic acid (AA), 20 nM rapamycin alone or 0.01% solvent DMSO. We found that rapamycin alone was insufficient to initiate cardiomyogenesis. Then, the ESCs were treated with AA and rapamycin (20 nM) or AA and DMSO (0.01%) as a control. Compared with control, mouse ESCs (mESCs) treated with rapamycin (20 nM) and AA yielded a significantly higher percentage of cardiomyocytes, as confirmed by the percentage of beating embryonic bodies (EBs), the immunofluorescence and FACS analysis. Rapamycin significantly increased the expression of a panel of cardiac markers including Gata4, α-Mhc, β-Mhc, and Tnnt2. Additionally, rapamycin enhanced the expression of mesodermal and cardiac transcription factors such as Mesp1, Brachyury T, Eomes, Isl1, Gata4, Nkx2.5, Tbx5, and Mef2c. Mechanistic studies showed that rapamycin inhibits Wnt/β-catenin and Notch signaling but promotes the expression of fibroblast growth factor (Fgf8), Fgf10, and Nodal at early stage, and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (Bmp 2) at later stages. Sequential treatment of rapamycin showed that rapamycin promotes cardiac differentiation at the early and later stages. Interestingly, another mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor Ku0063794 (1 µM) had similar effects on cardiomyogenesis. In conclusion, our results highlight a practical approach to generate cardiomyocytes from mESCs by rapamycin.
Light involved regulation of BZR1 stability and phosphorylation status to coordinate plant growth in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Qian-Feng , Huang Li-Chun , Wei Ke , Yu Jia-Wen , Zhang Chang-Quan , Liu Qiao-Quan
Published: April 2017

Light and brassinosteroid (BR) are master environmental stimulus and endogenous cue for plant growth and development respectively. Great progress has been made in elucidating the molecular mechanisms on the cross-talk between light and BR. However, little is known about how BZR1, the pivotal integration node, is regulated by light and dark. Here, we demonstrated that an intact BR signaling pathway is essential for dark-induced hypocotyl elongation. Consequent expression assay showed that light–dark switch affected BZR1 phosphorylation and accumulation. Moreover, blocking the 26S proteasome pathway promoted the accumulation of both phosphorylated and dephosphorylated BZR1 proteins. Restriction of new protein biosynthesis had multiple effects on BZR1 phosphorylation status and stability, relying on the availability of light and the 26S proteasome pathways. Furthermore, sugar treatment strikingly enhanced the accumulation of total BZR1 under either light or dark conditions, likely by repressing transcript abundance of MAX2, a gene encoding an E3 ligase for BZR1. Finally, light-regulated phosphorylation change of BZR1 requires the existence of endogenous BR as well as functional BIN2 and protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A). Taken together, our results depicted a light-involved complex regulation network of BZR1 stability and phosphorylation status.
Root extractive from Daphne genkwa benefits in wound healing of anal fistula through up-regulation of collagen genes in human skin fibroblasts
Authors: Yang Dong , Xu Jun-hua , Shi Ren-jie
Published: April 2017

Wound healing is the main problem in the therapy of anal fistula (AF). Daphne genkwa root has been traditionally used as an agent to soak sutures in operation of AF patients, but its function in wound healing remains largely unclear. The aim of the present study was to illuminate mechanisms of D. genkwa root treatment on AF. In the present study, 60 AF patients after surgery were randomly divided into two groups, external applied with or without the D. genkwa extractive. Wound healing times were compared and granulation tissues were collected. In vitro, we constructed damaged human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) with the treatment of TNF-α (10 μg/ml). Cell Count Kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry analysis were used to determine the effects of D. genkwa root extractive on cell viability, cell cycle and apoptosis of damaged HSFs. Furthermore, protein levels of TGF-β, COL1A1, COL3A1, Timp-1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 (MMP-3) and MEK/ERK signalling pathways were investigated both in vivo and in vitro. Results showed that D. genkwa root extractive greatly shortens the wound healing time in AF patients. In granulation tissues and HSFs, treatment with the extractive significantly elevated the expressions of COL1A1, COL3A1, Timp-1, c-fos and Cyclin D1, while reduced the expression of MMP-3. Further detection presented that MEK/ERK signalling was activated after the stimulation of extractive in HSFs. Our study demonstrated that extractive from D. genkwa root could effectively improve wound healing in patients with AF via the up-regulation of fibroblast proliferation and expressions of COL1A1 and COL3A1.
In vitro characterization of six STUB1 variants in spinocerebellar ataxia 16 reveals altered structural properties for the encoded CHIP proteins
Authors: Pakdaman Yasaman , Sanchez-Guixé Monica , Kleppe Rune , Erdal Sigrid , Bustad Helene J. , Bjørkhaug Lise , Haugarvoll Kristoffer , Tzoulis Charalampos , Heimdal Ketil , Knappskog Per M. , Johansson Stefan , Aukrust Ingvild
Published: April 2017

Spinocerebellar ataxia, autosomal recessive 16 (SCAR16) is caused by biallelic mutations in the STIP1 homology and U-box containing protein 1 (STUB1) gene encoding the ubiquitin E3 ligase and dimeric co-chaperone C-terminus of Hsc70-interacting protein (CHIP). It has been proposed that the disease mechanism is related to CHIP’s impaired E3 ubiquitin ligase properties and/or interaction with its chaperones. However, there is limited knowledge on how these mutations affect the stability, folding, and protein structure of CHIP itself. To gain further insight, six previously reported pathogenic STUB1 variants (E28K, N65S, K145Q, M211I, S236T, and T246M) were expressed as recombinant proteins and studied using limited proteolysis, size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), and circular dichroism (CD). Our results reveal that N65S shows increased CHIP dimerization, higher levels of α-helical content, and decreased degradation rate compared with wild-type (WT) CHIP. By contrast, T246M demonstrates a strong tendency for aggregation, a more flexible protein structure, decreased levels of α-helical structures, and increased degradation rate compared with WT CHIP. E28K, K145Q, M211I, and S236T also show defects on structural properties compared with WT CHIP, although less profound than what observed for N65S and T246M. In conclusion, our results illustrate that some STUB1 mutations known to cause recessive SCAR16 have a profound impact on the protein structure, stability, and ability of CHIP to dimerize in vitro. These results add to the growing understanding on the mechanisms behind the disorder.
Novel One-Pot Cyclization of the Blaise Reaction Intermediate and Arylglyoxals: The Synthesis of Substituted NH-Pyrroles
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Chen Hao , Yang Xiaofeng , Chang Xiangqing
Published: April 2017

A novel tandem Blaise reaction for the one-pot synthesis of substituted NH-pyrroles was described. The Blaise reaction intermediate, generated in situ from Reformatsky reagent and nitrile, reacted with arylglyoxals chemoselectively to afford a wide variety of substituted NH-pyrroles in good yields.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Vinyl Iodides through Copper(I)-Catalyzed Finkelstein-Type Halide-Exchange Reaction
Authors: Feng Xiujuan , Zhang Haixia , Lu Wenbo , Yamamoto Yoshinori , Almansour Abdulrahman , Arumugam Natarajan , Kumar Raju , Bao Ming
Published: April 2017

An efficient method for the stereoselective synthesis of vinyl iodides is described. The reactions of vinyl bromides with potassium iodide proceed smoothly in the presence of a copper catalyst under mild reaction conditions to produce the corresponding vinyl iodides stereospecifically and in satisfactory to excellent yields.
The Interest of Performing “On-Demand Chest X-rays” after Lung Resection by Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Bubenheim Michael , Bernard Alain , Melki Jean , Peillon Christophe , Baste Jean-Marc , Haddad Laura
Published: April 2017

Background There is a lack of consensus in hospital centers regarding costly daily routine chest X-rays after lung resection by minimally invasive surgery. Indeed, there is no evidence that performing daily chest X-rays prevents postoperative complications. Our objective was to compare chest X-rays performed on demand when there was clinical suspicion of postoperative complications and chest X-rays performed systematically in daily routine practice.

Methods This prospective single-center study compared 55 patients who had on-demand chest X-rays and patients in the literature who had daily routine chest X-rays. Our primary evaluation criterion was length of hospitalization.

Results The length of hospitalization was 5.3 ± 3.3 days for patients who had on-demand X-rays, compared with 4 to 9.7 days for patients who had daily routine X-rays. Time to chest tube removal (4.34 days), overall complication rate (27.2%), reoperation rate (3.6%), and mortality rate (1.8%) were comparable to those in the literature. On average, our patients only had 1.22 ± 1.8 on-demand X-rays, compared with 3.3 X-rays if daily routine protocol had been applied. Patients with complications had more X-rays (3.4 ± 1.8) than patients without complications (0.4 ± 0.7).

Conclusion On-demand chest X-rays do not seem to delay the diagnosis of postoperative complications or increase morbidity–mortality rates. Performing on-demand chest X-rays could not only simplify surgical practice but also have a positive impact on health care expenses. However, a broader randomized study is warranted to validate this work and ultimately lead to national consensus.
Thyroid-stimulating Hormone and Insulin Resistance: Their Association with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome without Overt Hypothyroidism
Authors: Benetti-Pinto Cristina Laguna , Piccolo Vanessa Berini , Yela Daniela Angerame , Garmes Heraldo
Published: April 2017

Objective This study analyzed the effectiveness of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) as a predictor of insulin resistance (IR) and its association with the clinical and metabolic parameters of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) without overt hypothyroidism.

Study Design A cross-sectional study was performed. Women with PCOS and without overt hypothyroidism (n = 168) were included.

Methods Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the cut-off point for TSH that would maximize sensitivity and specificity for a diagnosis of IR using homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) ≥ 2.71. Clinical and metabolic parameters were compared as a function of the TSH cut-off limit and the presence of IR.

Results Thyroid-stimulating hormone ≥ 2.77 mIU/L was associated with a diagnosis of IR, with sensitivity of 47.9% and specificity of 65.3%. There were no differences in clinical, hormonal or metabolic parameters between TSH < 2.77 and TSH of 2.77 – 10 mIU/L.

Conclusion In women with PCOS without overt hypothyroidism, TSH ≥ 2.77 mIU/L is associated with IR; however, with poor sensibility, showing TSH to be a poor predictor of IR in this population. No clinical or metabolic alterations were found that would justify a change in clinical management. Thus, the IR should be investigated in all women with PCOS irrespective of TSH level.
Can the Pessary Use Modify the Vaginal Microbiological Flora? A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Giraldo Paulo César , Florentino Juliana Oquendo , Castro Edilson Benedito de , Brito Luiz Gustavo Oliveira , Juliato Cássia Raquel Teatin , Coelho Suelene Costa de Albuquerque
Published: April 2017

Introduction Vaginal pessary is used as a conservative treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Some studies have shown that common complaints of its use may include vaginal discomfort and increased vaginal discharge. Scant information is available about the microflora status after using this device.

Objective To determine if the usage of vaginal pessary can interfere with the vaginal environment.

Methods A cross-sectional study was performed from March of 2014 to July of 2015 including 90 women with POP. The study group was composed of 45 women users of vaginal pessary and 45 nom-users. All enrolled women answered a standardized questionnaire and were subjected to a gynecological exam to collect vaginal samples for microbiological evaluation under optic microscopy. Clinical and microbiological data were compared between study and control groups.

Results Vaginal discharge was confirmed in 84% of the study group versus 62.2% in the control group (p < 0.01); itching was reported in 20 and 2.2%, respectively (p < .05); genital ulcers were only found in the pessary group (20%). There was no difference with regard to the type of vaginal flora. Bacterial vaginosis was prevalent in the study group (31.1% study group versus 22.2% control group), (p =.34).

Conclusion Women using vaginal pessaries for POP treatment presented more vaginal discharge, itching and genital ulcers than non-users.
Transperineal Ultrasound for Perianal Fistulas and Abscesses – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Maconi Giovanni , Greco Maria , Asthana Anil
Published: April 2017

Purpose Transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) is a practical tool for assessing perianal inflammatory lesions. We systematically review its accuracy for detecting and classifying perianal fistulae and abscesses.

Method The National Library of Medicine and Embase were searched for articles on TPUS for the assessment of idiopathic and Crohn’s perianal fistulae and abscesses. Two reviewers independently reviewed eligible studies and rated them for quality using the QUADAS tool. The primary outcome measure was the accuracy of TPUS as measured by its sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) in detecting and classifying perianal fistulae, internal openings and perianal abscesses.

Results We included 12 studies (565 patients). Overall, the methodological quality of the studies was suboptimal. 3 studies were retrospective and 4 showed significant risks of bias in the application of the reference standard. The sensitivity of TPUS in detecting perianal fistulae on a per-lesion basis was 98 % (95 % CI 96 – 100 %) and the PPV was 95 % (95 % CI 90 – 98 %). The detection of internal openings had a sensitivity of 91 % (95 % CI 84 – 97 %) with a PPV of 87 % (95 % CI 76 – 95 %). The classification of fistulae yielded a sensitivity of 92 % (95 % CI 85 – 97 %) and a PPV of 92 % (95 % CI 83 – 98 %). TPUS had a sensitivity of 86 % (95 % CI 67 – 99 %) and PPV of 90 % (95 % CI 76 – 99 %) in the detection of perianal abscesses.

Conclusion The current literature on TPUS illustrates good overall accuracy in the assessment of perianal fistulae and abscesses. However, many studies had methodological flaws suggesting that further research is required.
Adenoma detection with blue-water infusion colonoscopy: a randomized trial
Authors: Lesne Adriane , Rouquette Olivier , Touzet Sandrine , Petit-Laurent Fabien , Tourlonias Gwenaelle , Pasquion Audrey , Rivory Jérôme , Aguero Garcete Guillermo , Scanzi Julien , Chalumeau Sylvaine , Chambon-Augoyard Christine , Moussata Driffa , Leger-Nguyen Florence , Degeorges Stéphane , Chauvenet Marion , Fontanges Thierry , Baubet Sandrine , Brulet Philippe , Billioud Claire , Thimonier Elsa , Stroeymeyt-Martin Karine , Hamel Benjamin , Graillot Emmanuelle , Cruiziat Claire , Scalone Olivia , O’Brien Marc , Péré-Vergé Denis , Souquet Jean-Christophe , Phelip Jean-Marc , Poincloux Laurent , Poupon-Bourdy Stéphanie , Denis Angélique , Magaud Laurent , Ponchon Thierry , Pioche Mathieu
Published: April 2017

Background and aims Colonoscopy is currently the reference method to detect colorectal neoplasia, yet some adenomas remain undetected. The water infusion technique and dying with indigo carmine has shown interesting results for reducing this miss rate. The aim of this study was to compare the adenoma detection rate (adenoma and adenocarcinoma; ADR) and the mean number of adenomas per patient (MAP) for blue-water infusion colonoscopy (BWIC) versus standard colonoscopy.

Methods We performed a multicenter, randomized controlled trial in eight units, including patients with a validated indication for colonoscopy (symptoms, familial or personal history, fecal occult blood test positive). Consenting patients were randomized 1:1 to BWIC or standard colonoscopy. All colonoscopies were performed by experienced colonoscopists. All colonoscopy quality indicators were prospectively recorded.

Results Among the 1065 patients included, colonoscopies were performed completely for 983 patients (514 men; mean age 59.1). The ADR was not significantly different between the groups; 40.4 % in the BWIC group versus 37.5 % in the standard colonoscopy group (odds ratio [OR] 1.13; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.87 – 1.48; P = 0.35). MAP was significantly greater in the BWIC group (0.79) than in the standard colonoscopy group (0.64; P = 0.005). For advanced adenomas, the results were 50 (10.2 %) and 36 (7.3 %), respectively (P = 0.10). The cecal intubation rate was not different but the time to cecal intubation was significantly longer in BWIC group (9.9 versus 6.2 minutes; P < 0.001).

Conclusion Despite the higher MAP with BWIC, the routine use of BWIC does not translate to a higher ADR. Whether increased detection ultimately results in a lower rate of interval carcinoma is not yet known.

Clinical trials registration: EudraCT 2012-A00548 – 35; NCT01937429.
Comparative Metabolism Study of Five Protoberberine Alkaloids in Liver Microsomes from Rat, Rhesus Monkey, and Human
Authors: Li Yan , Zhou Yanyan , Si Nan , Han Lingyu , Ren Wei , Xin Shaokun , Wang Hongjie , Zuo Ran , Wei Xiaolu , Yang Jian , Zhao Haiyu , Bian Baolin
Published: April 2017

Protoberberine alkaloids including berberine, palmatine, jatrorrhizine, coptisine, and epiberberine are major components in many medicinal plants. They have been widely used for the treatment of cancer, inflammation, diabetes, depression, hypertension, and various infectious areas. However, the metabolism of five protoberberine alkaloids among different species has not been clarified previously. In order to elaborate on the in vitro metabolism of them, a comparative analysis of their metabolic profile in rat, rhesus monkey, and human liver microsomes was carried out using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a high-resolution linear trap quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometer (UHPLC-electrospray ionization-Orbitrap MS) for the first time. Each metabolite was identified and semiquantified by its accurate mass data and peak area. Fifteen metabolites were characterized based on accurate MS/MS spectra and the proposed MS/MS fragmentation pathways including demethylation, hydroxylation, and methyl reduction. Among them, the content of berberine metabolites in human liver microsomes was similar with those in rhesus monkey liver microsomes, whereas berberine in rat liver microsomes showed no demethylation metabolites and the content of metabolites showed significant differences with that in human liver microsomes. On the contrary, the metabolism of palmatine in rat liver microsomes resembled that in human liver microsomes. The content of jatrorrhizine metabolites presented obvious differences in all species. The HR-ESI-MS/MS fragmentation behavior of protoberberine alkaloids and their metabolic profile in rat, rhesus monkey, and human liver microsomes were investigated for the first time. The results demonstrated that the biotransformation characteristics of protoberberine alkaloids among different species had similarities as well differences that would be beneficial for us to better understand the pharmacological activities of protoberberine alkaloids.
Discourse as virtue ethics: Muslim women in the American Southwest
Authors: C. Taha Maisa
Published: April 2017

This article examines naturally occurring speech among participants in a young women’s halaqa, or study circle, at a mosque in the southwest United States to detail how “tactics of linguistic objectification” provide anchor points for ethical negotiations of difference. By focusing on linguistic micro-practices, including codeswitching and mock “foreign” accents, this paper brings a linguistic anthropological approach to bear upon this inquiry into discourse as a mode of phronesis. It is argued that, during informal conversation, core members of this group of largely second-generation immigrant women highlighted features of non-native English speech to monitor, examine, and mediate their own and their families’ hypervisibility as U.S. Muslims. As policy and public opinion paint a picture of Muslims as an existential threat to the west, these women’s language use, narratives and laughter act as in-group responses to social scrutiny that makes acknowledgement and normalization of Muslim difference obligatory. This article is published as part of a collection on discourse studies.
Simulations of knotting of DNA during genome mapping
Authors: Jain Aashish , Dorfman Kevin D.
Published: April 2017

Genome mapping involves the confinement of long DNA molecules, in excess of 150 kilobase pairs, in nanochannels near the circa 50 nm persistence length of DNA. The fidelity of the map relies on the assumption that the DNA is linearized by channel confinement, which assumes the absence of knots. We have computed the probability of forming different knot types and the size of these knots for long chains (approximately 164 kilobase pairs) via pruned-enriched Rosenbluth method simulations of a discrete wormlike chain model of DNA in channel sizes ranging from 35 nm to 60 nm. Compared to prior simulations of short DNA in similar confinement, these long molecules exhibit both complex knots, with up to seven crossings, and multiple knots per chain. The knotting probability is a very strong function of channel size, ranging from 0.3% to 60%, and rationalized in the context of Odijk's theory for confined semiflexible chains. Overall, the knotting probability and knot size obtained from these equilibrium measurements are not consistent with experimental measurements of the properties of anomalously bright regions along the DNA backbone during genome mapping experiments. This result suggests that these events in experiments are either knots formed during the processing of the DNA prior to injection into the nanochannel or regions of locally high DNA concentration without a topological constraint. If so, knots during genome mapping are not an intrinsic problem for genome mapping technology.
Weak eigenfunctions of two-interval Sturm-Liouville problems together with interaction conditions
Authors: Olǧar H. , Mukhtarov O. Sh.
Published: April 2017

In this study, we consider a new type boundary value problem consisting of a Sturm-Liouville equation on two disjoint intervals together with interaction conditions and with eigenvalue parameter in the boundary conditions. We suggest a special technique to reduce the considered problem into an integral equation by the use of which we define a new concept, the so-called weak eigenfunction for the considered problem. Then we construct some Hilbert spaces and define some self-adjoint compact operators in these spaces in such a way that the considered problem can be interpreted as a self-adjoint operator-pencil equation. Finally, it is shown that the spectrum is discrete and the set of weak eigenfunctions form a Riesz basis of the suitable Hilbert space.
New chemical-DSMC method in numerical simulation of axisymmetric rarefied reactive flow
Authors: Zakeri Ramin , Kamali Moghadam Ramin , Mani Mahmoud
Published: April 2017

The modified quantum kinetic (MQK) chemical reaction model introduced by Zakeri et al. is developed for applicable cases in axisymmetric reactive rarefied gas flows using the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method. Although, the MQK chemical model uses some modifications in the quantum kinetic (QK) method, it also employs the general soft sphere collision model and Stockmayer potential function to properly select the collision pairs in the DSMC algorithm and capture both the attraction and repulsion intermolecular forces in rarefied gas flows. For assessment of the presented model in the simulation of more complex and applicable reacting flows, first, the air dissociation is studied in a single cell for equilibrium and non-equilibrium conditions. The MQK results agree well with the analytical and experimental data and they accurately predict the characteristics of the rarefied flowfield with chemical reaction. To investigate accuracy of the MQK chemical model in the simulation of the axisymmetric flow, air dissociation is also assessed in an axial hypersonic flow around two geometries, the sphere as a benchmark case and the blunt body (STS-2) as an applicable test case. The computed results including the transient, rotational and vibrational temperatures, species concentration in the stagnation line, and also the heat flux and pressure coefficient on the surface are compared with those of the other chemical methods like the QK and total collision energy (TCE) models and available analytical and experimental data. Generally, the MQK chemical model properly simulates the chemical reactions and predicts flowfield characteristics more accurate rather than the typical QK model. Although in some cases, results of the MQK approaches match with those of the TCE method, the main point is that the MQK does not need any experimental data or unrealistic assumption of specular boundary condition as used in the TCE method. Another advantage of the MQK model is the significant reduction of computational cost rather than the QK chemical model to reach the same accuracy because of applying more proper collision model and consequently, decrease of the particles collision number.
A novel hybrid model based on least square support vector machine and weight coefficients optimization: A case study of short-term electric load forecasting
Authors: Wang Yachen , Yang Yi , Li Caihong , Chen Yanhua , Li Lian
Published: April 2017

Electric load forecasting, as a crucial way to tackle the energy tasks, helps to provide correct guidance and reduce energy consumption for an electric system. This paper introduces a novel forecasting method that combines wavelet transform (WT) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) with an extreme learning machine, phase space reconstruction (PSR), and a least squares support vector machine. Because the electric data that are easily interfered by many factors are unstable, directly adopting the data containing noise will affect the forecasting performance. Prior to the electric forecasting conduct, WT is adopted to reduce the noise. Because only a single method is not able to suit for all kinds of data, three individual models with a strong nonlinear learning capability are applied to deal with the whole time series that have complex nonlinear characteristics. They are used to obtain intermediate forecasting results. Besides, the C-C method is utilized to acquire the optimal delay time and embedding dimension of the PSR. PSO is employed to attain the best proportion of each single method of the hybrid model. By multiplying the corresponding optimal weights by all the three forecasting results and then adding them up, the final result of the hybrid method can be attained. In order to assess the accuracy and applicability of the proposed hybrid method, half-hourly electric load data of New South Wales and Victoria of Australia are used as case studies. The experiment results show that the hybrid method outperforms the individual methods and is appropriate for different kinds of data.
Molecular size insensitivity of optical gap of [n]cycloparaphenylenes (n = 3-16)
Authors: Noguchi Yoshifumi , Sugino Osamu
Published: April 2017

The first-principles GW+Bethe-Salpeter method is applied to [n]cycloparaphenylenes ([n]CPPs, n = 3-16) to explain why the experimental UV-vis absorption spectra for n = 7-16 are roughly size-insensitive, unlike the fluorescence spectra. Having confirmed that the calculated absorption spectra consistently exhibit size-insensitivity, the exciton properties are investigated in detail using a novel analysis method based on the two-particle picture. The size-insensitivity of large-sized [n]CPPs (n≥9) is found due to a common spatial distribution of the wave functions involved with the first dark exciton and the first bright exciton, which are characterized primarily by a number of the wave function nodes. The exciton wave function as well as other properties of smaller molecules of n = 7 and 8 is, on the contrary, size-sensitive, although and the peak positions are essentially size-insensitive because of the cancellation of size-dependence of exciton binding energy and orbital energy. Different size-sensitivity between absorption and fluorescence can thus be explained unless such cancellation also occurs for fluorescence.
One-pot selective conversion of cellulose into low carbon polyols on nano-Sn based catalysts
Authors: Xiao Zhuqian , Mao Jianwei , Jiang Chengjun , Xing Chuang , Ji Jianbing , Cheng Yongjie
Published: April 2017

The direct hydrogenolysis of cellulose on bimetallic catalysts represented a promising route for polyols' production. The development of a catalyst system that could control the promotion of the selectivity of polyols for the conversion cellulose into polyols was highly desirable. In this work, we realized the production of ethylene glycol (EG) and 1,2-propylene glycol (1,2-PG) by adopting nano-Sn species with different valences in combination with Ni catalysts, and the catalysts were prepared by the incipient-wetness impregnation method. The catalyst 10%Ni–15%Sn/SBA-15 achieved the highest yield of C2-C3 polyols, yielding up to 67.2% with a higher selectivity to 1,2-PG. The Ni and Sn species and some NiSn alloys were found to be the active sites for the EG and PG as evidenced by control experiments and characterization including X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The catalytic particles were located on the outer surface of SBA-15 (pore size = 6–10 nm) on a nanoscale with sizes of 11.1 ± 1.9 nm. The effects of the supports and hydrogenating species were investigated for cellulose conversion. The experimental results disclosed that the Sn species with different valences possessed obvious functions for the retro-aldol condensation, and the Ni components boomed the hydrogenation process. The other detailed analyses on the formation of polyols were described. As a consequence, controlling the EG and PG product distribution could be realized using Sn based catalysts.
Administration of a live attenuated Salmonella vaccine using an inactivated oil-emulsion vaccine as a vehicle for commercial chicken flocks
Authors: Groves P. J. , Harris T. , Sharpe S. M.
Published: April 2017

Since the finding that inoculating an aroA- deletion live Salmonella Typhimurium vaccine parenterally provides improved and longer-lasting protection against Salmonella colonisation of the laying-hen intestine, this administration route has been adopted by the industry. To make this method practicable and economical, mixing the live bacterial vaccine with an inactivated viral vaccine has become popular. In vitro and in vivo studies were performed designed to assess the effect on the survival of the live salmonellae and the ability to stimulate serum antibody when mixed into oil-emulsion vaccines, compared with more traditional diluents. A rapid decline in viable salmonellae was observed when mixing with an inactivated Riemerella/Pasteurella bacterin. Mixing with an inactivated viral vaccine produced a less severe and more gradual decline in viable salmonellae over time; however, there was a surprising resuscitation of the bacteria 60 min after mixing. Serum antibody 14 days after inoculation of vaccine diluted in a universal diluent rose significantly, compared with sham vaccinated birds. Birds receiving the vaccine diluted in an inactivated vaccine at the time of preparation did not show a significant serological response; however, when given 60 min post-preparation, serum antibody was significantly increased. There appeared to be a correlation of the magnitude of serum antibody produced with the number of viable salmonellae inoculated. The use of the live vaccine incorporated into an inactivated vaccine may give variable results and needs assessment before adoption.
Geometrical properties of materials for energy production by salinity exchange
Authors: Delgado A. V. , Ahualli S. , Fernández M. M. , González M. A. , Iglesias G. R. , Vivo-Vilches J. F. , Jiménez M. L.
Published: April 2017

Environmental contextOceans and seas have the potential to play a significant role in providing renewable and clean energy. In particular, salinity difference energy aims to extract the enormous amount of energy that is released when fresh water rivers flow into the oceans. Capmix methods are focused on this challenge by using capacitive carbon electrodes whose optimisation will certainly help in developing salinity difference energy. AbstractOne of the most powerful marine renewable resources is salinity difference energy, also termed blue energy. Numerous techniques have been investigated to harvest this energy but, recently, the capmix proposal has increased in importance due to its easy implementation and use of low cost materials, very often activated carbon. Two methods based on this principle are tested in this work, namely CDLE (energy production by double layer expansion in bare electrodes) and SE (the electrodes are made ‘soft’ by polyelectrolyte coating). The characteristics of the carbon materials play a central role in capmix energy production. In this work, we focus on understanding the required pore structure that might be demanded from carbon samples. The balance between micro- and mesopores, the wettability of the material and its electrical resistance are explored by using hierarchical carbons, and their combination with graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes. It is found that the CDLE technique requires a large fraction of mesopores for easy solution exchange, while SE performance improves with a large amount of micropores. The addition of carbon nanotubes to the activated carbon reduces the capmix cycle duration, increasing the extracted power. In the case of electrodes containing graphene the internal resistance decreases, but the hydrophobicity of graphene oxide works against the improvement in energy extraction.
Adaptation aftereffects reveal that tactile distance is a basic somatosensory feature
Authors: Calzolari Elena , Azañón Elena , Danvers Matthew , Vallar Giuseppe , Longo Matthew R.
Published: April 2017

Significance

Visual adaptation aftereffects have been termed “the psychologist’s microelectrode” for the insight they provide into the neural bases of human vision. Less research has explored such aftereffects in touch. We exploit the distinction in vision between “low-level” aftereffects, showing location- and orientation-specificity characteristics of the early retinotopic cortex, and “high-level” aftereffects, showing high generality to these characteristics, and presumably arising from higher processing stages. We demonstrate that distance aftereffects in passive touch share numerous characteristics with low-level visual aftereffects, including orientation and region specificity, lack of transfer contralaterally or across palm and dorsum, and encoding in skin-based space. These results provide experimental evidence that tactile distance is a basic somatosensory feature, computed at relatively early somatosensory processing stages.