bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative analysis of the full set of methylated β‐cyclodextrins as chiral selectors in capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Varga Erzsébet , Benkovics Gábor , Darcsi András , Várnai Bianka , Sohajda Tamás , Malanga Milo , Béni Szabolcs
Published: July 2019

The chiral separation ability of the full library of methylated‐β‐cyclodextrins towards pharmacologically significant racemic drugs including basic compounds was studied by chiral CE. The syntheses of all the methylated, single isomer β‐cyclodextrins were revised and optimized and the aqueous solubility of the derivatives was unambiguously established. The three most relevant commercially available methylated isomeric mixtures were also included in the screening, so a total of ten various methylated CDs were investigated. The effects of the selector concentration on the enantiorecognition properties at acidic pH were investigated. Among the dimethylated β‐cyclodextrins, the heptakis (2,6‐di‐O‐methyl)‐β‐cyclodextrin isomer (2,6‐DIMEB) resulted to be the most versatile chiral selector. Terbutaline was selected as a model compound for the in‐depth investigation of host‐guest enantiodiscrimination ability. The association constants between the two terbutaline enantiomers and 2,6‐DIMEB were determined in order to support that the enantioseparation is driven by differences is host‐guest binding. The migration order of the enantiomers was confirmed by performing spiking experiments with the pure enantiomers. 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy was applied to the 2,3‐, and 2,6‐DIMEB/terbutaline systems to rationalize at molecular level the different enantioseparation ability of the dimethylated β‐cyclodextrin selectors.
A fluid‐solid coupling method for the simulation of gas transport in porous coal and rock media
Authors: Zhang Cun , Liu Jinbao , Zhao Yixin , Zhang Lei , Guo Junting
Published: July 2019

Understanding coal and rock permeability, and the corresponding influence on stress, is important in the field of energy development. In applied engineering, there is a tendency to employ three‐dimensional methods that are simpler, less time‐ and cost‐expensive, less computationally expensive, and larger scale. Thus, a numerical simulation fluid‐solid coupling method is proposed in this paper. The proposed numerical simulation method utilizes the stress‐permeability test results for elastic and plastic coal samples. The permeability models of the elastic and plastic coal samples under loading and unloading were obtained by fitting the experimental results and embedded them into FLAC3D software by using FISH language. The results of the uniaxial and triaxial flow simulations are consistent with the experimental results, thereby confirming the accuracy and feasibility of the numerical method proposed in this paper. This allows the permeability of the numerical reservoir model to be continuously updated according to the current stress level in the production process.
Comparative Study of Experimental and Theoretical Evaluation of Nocturnal Cooling System for Room Cooling for Clear and Cloudy Sky Climate
Authors: Mulik Pramod V. , Kapale Uday C. , Kamble Gautam S.
Published: July 2019

Nocturnal radiation is one of the effective passive cooling technologies by infrared radiation exchange between earthly surfaces and the sky. Heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are highly energy‐demanding and there is a need to develop alternative low‐energy means to achieve comfort. Radiative cooling reduces the electricity requirements, which normally is generated through fossil fuels, in order to run active cooling systems. During the day, this is offset by solar radiation gains on the roof; however, at night, this heat loss has the ability to cool air, as roofs can experience a temperature drop of 2–12 °C below ambient. The experimental investigation of the aluminum material and their surface colors on nocturnal cooling is presented for clear and cloudy sky conditions. The material of aluminum and black color coating are considered. Results obtained reveal that the plates' performances greatly depend on the presence of clouds in the night. The best results are obtained in a clear sky summer climate condition than in the cloudy sky condition. The net cooling rate of night sky radiation system for without and with coating on aluminum of mass flow rate 0.05 kg s−1 is near about 72.30–80.99 W m−2 for clear sky and 48.75–53.25 W m−2 for cloudy sky condition.
Main factors controlling the organic matter enrichment in the Lower Cambrian sediments of the Sichuan Basin, SW China
Authors: Wang Ning , Li Meijun , Tian Xingwang , Hong Haitao , Liu Peng , Chen Guo , Wang Maolin
Published: July 2019

The Lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi Formation contains more than 200 m of marine sediments mainly consisting of mudstone and black shales, which are widely accepted as the most important hydrocarbon source rocks of the Ediacaran–Cambrian giant gas field in the Sichuan Basin. The geochemical compositions of biomarkers and trace elements obtained from black shales at the bottom of the Qiongzhusi Formation were used to reconstruct the palaeoproductivity and palaeoenvironment and to determine the main factors controlling the deposition and preservation of this organic‐rich shales. Based on varieties of steroids and hopanoids compositions, multifarious palaeobios such as pelagophyceae, dinoflagellate, diatom (or its ancestor), sponges, and aerobic/anaerobic bacteria have been proved to evolve in the Early Cambrian in the Sichuan Basin. In addition, a relative high concentration of Cubio compared with modern oceanic palaeoproductivity proxies indicate a moderate to relatively high palaeoproductivity, which is favourable for the organic matter accumulation of this source rocks. Moreover, the evidence from biomarkers and trace element ratios suggest that the Lower Cambrian sediments were deposited under a non‐sulphurized anoxic condition, which provided a favourable preservation condition. The covariation among Porg, Cubio, and TOC shows that the palaeoproductivity is the main controlling factor for the high organic content of the black shales of the Qiongzhusi Formation.
Facies architecture of a subaqueous volcano–sedimentary succession on Bogda Mountains, NW China—Evidence of extension in Late Carboniferous
Authors: Memtimin Mehmut , Zhang Yuanyuan , Furnes Harald , Pe‐Piper Georgia , Piper David J. W. , Guo Zhaojie
Published: July 2019

A Late Carboniferous volcano–sedimentary complex outcrops on the southwestern flank of the Bogda Mountains, NW China. The volcanic architecture, spatial relationships, and emplacement mechanisms of the lithofacies were studied in detail, providing a lithofacies context for previously published structural and geochemical studies and constraining the reconstruction of palaeo‐environments. Four distinct volcano–sedimentary facies are identified in the Qijiagou Formation: close‐packed pillow basalts, pillow basalts with interstitial sediments, hyaloclastites, and peperites. Textural features of the lithofacies, especially hyaloclastites and peperites, provide clear evidence for in situ fragmentation of lava flows, co‐volcanic sedimentation of limestone, and intimate interaction between lava, water, and sediments. They demonstrate autochthonous, subaqueous origin of the succession. Discovery of peperites and stratigraphic transitions of the related lithofacies indicate a progressively deepening subaqueous environment, resembling a volcanic evolution from early stage of eruption at a shallower level to increasingly subsiding basin with increasing eruption frequency of basaltic lava at greater water depth. Vesicularity of basalts, ambient pressure, and peperitic features indicate eruption depth at between 1,500 and 2,500 m. The deep extensional basin in the Baiyanggou area was coeval with bimodal volcanism, uplift, and granite intrusion along strike in the region, all indicating continental collision and post‐collisional extension. The substantial depth of the Baiyanggou Basin indicates that it may have been a back‐arc or even a residual oceanic basin.
Discussion of memory during primary care visits of older adults with cognitive impairment and accompanying family
Authors: Aufill Jennifer , Amjad Halima , Roter Debra L. , Wolff Jennifer L.
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Cognitive impairment is underdiagnosed in primary care. Understanding factors that precipitate memory‐related discussion could inform strategies to improve diagnosis and counseling. We assessed whether: 1) having a cognitive impairment or dementia diagnosis, 2) ratings of cognition by clinicians, or 3) ratings of cognition by family companions were associated with memory‐related discussion during primary care visits.

Methods

We examined audio‐recorded primary care visits of cognitively impaired patients aged 65 years and older, family companions (n = 93 dyads), and clinicians (n = 14). Cognitive impairment and dementia diagnoses were extracted from the electronic health record. Clinicians and family rated patient cognition on a 10‐point scale in postvisit surveys. We measured memory‐related discussion using a ratio of memory‐related discussion episodes to total visit statements.

Results

We observed more memory‐related discussion during primary care visits of patients with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (+7.8% episodes; P < .001) or dementia (+26.3% episodes; P < .001) than no diagnosis. Clinician and family ratings of cognition varied by diagnosis: among patients with no diagnosis, family rated worse impairment than clinicians (average: 2.4 versus 1.3; P = .004) while for patients with a dementia diagnosis, clinicians rated worse impairment than family (average: 7.1 versus 5.5; P = .006). Each unit increase in clinician‐rated severity of cognitive impairment was associated with more memory‐related discussion (+2.6% episodes; P < .001); this association was attenuated for family (+0.7% episodes; P = .095).

Conclusions

Discussion of cognitive impairment appears largely driven by clinician ratings of cognition and presence of an established diagnosis. Findings suggest potential benefit of engaging family to improve cognitive impairment detection in primary care.
Toward accurate inferences of response class membership
Authors: Warner Christine A. , Hanley Gregory P. , Landa Robin K. , Ruppel Kelsey W. , Rajaraman Adithyan , Ghaemmaghami Mahshid , Slaton Jessica D. , Gover Holly C.
Published: July 2019

In their review of synthesis within the functional analysis (FA) literature, Slaton and Hanley (2018) reported that most synthesized contingency analyses have included multiple topographies of problem behavior in the reinforcement contingency class. This leaves the question of whether one, some, or all forms of problem behavior are sensitive to the synthesized reinforcement contingencies in published analyses. To address this ambiguity, all topographies of problem behavior that were reported by caregivers to co‐occur with the most concerning problem behavior were analyzed for 10 participants. We implemented extinction across one or more forms of problem behavior to determine whether all forms reported to co‐occur were sensitive to the same synthesized reinforcement contingency. For nine of 10 participants, the most concerning topographies were sensitive to the same synthesized reinforcement contingencies as the less concerning topographies (results were inconclusive for one). Implications for inferring response class membership from single analyses are discussed.
A second life for low‐grade wool through formation of all‐keratin composites in cystine reducing calcium chloride–water–ethanol solution
Authors: Fitz‐Binder Christa , Pham Tung , Bechtold Thomas
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Coarse low grade wool holds a share of more than 40% of the worldwide production of 1.2 million tons per year. Wool hair with a diameter above 32.5 μm and recycled wool waste represent an important source of high quality keratin. An efficient and simple shaping procedure to form all‐keratin composites could open a new approach to utilise wool keratin for production of sustainable and biodegradable all‐keratin composite.

RESULTS

In this work the dissolution and regeneration of wool keratin was studied using a concentrated solution of calcium chloride–water–ethanol as solvent and thioglycolate as reducing agent to open disulphide bonds. Up to 70% of the wool keratin dissolved in the solvent at pH 7, 60 °C. After dilution with water a share of 80% of the total keratin could be obtained as regenerated composite structure while 20% of the protein remains in solution. Based on the model studies, all‐keratin composites were prepared by impregnation of wool with solvent followed by thermal consolidation in a heated press at 60 °C and 2.2–3.3 bar pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

The new method for production of all‐keratin composites permits production of a protein‐based bio‐composite, which opens new applications for low value coarse wool and recycled wool waste. By use of cheap chemicals and thermal consolidation in standard equipment scale‐up of the technology is expected to be straightforward and commercially feasible, leading to a bio‐based and biodegradable composite material. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
The impact of genetic counseling on patient engagement in a specialty cancer clinic
Authors: Zakas Anna L. , Leifeste Claire , Dudley Beth , Karloski Eve , Afonso Samantha , Grubs Robin E. , Shaffer John R. , Durst Andrea L. , Parkinson Michael D. , Brand Randall
Published: July 2019

The identification of patient outcomes unique to the field of genetic counseling has become a recent priority of the profession. Current health‐care efforts have targeted patient engagement as an outcome capable of improving population health and reducing health‐care costs. This study analyzed patient engagement levels among 182 participants who underwent genetic counseling for gastrointestinal (GI) cancer risk assessment in an outpatient specialty clinic. Patients seen at the UPMC Hereditary GI Tumor Program completed a validated patient engagement measure, the Altarum Consumer Engagement (ACE), prior to undergoing genetic counseling and again three months after enrollment. Paired t test analysis was conducted to assess the changes in Total ACE scores, and within the following three domains: Navigation, Informed Choice, and Commitment. In the sample of 182 participants, Total ACE scores increased after genetic counseling (by 5.7%; p < .0001), as did all three domains (Commitment p = .0008; Navigation p = .0008; and Informed Choice p = .0016). This study is the first known report of patient engagement levels in individuals undergoing genetic counseling in a specialty cancer clinic and suggests that genetic counseling improves patient engagement levels.
Switch to dolutegravir is well tolerated in Thais with HIV infection
Authors: Goh Orlanda Q , Colby Donn J , Pinyakorn Suteeraporn , Sacdalan Carlo , Kroon Eugène , Chan Phillip , Chomchey Nitiya , Kanaprach Ratchapong , Prueksakaew Peeriya , Suttichom Duanghathai , Trichavaroj Rapee , Spudich Serena , Robb Merlin L , Phanuphak Praphan , Phanuphak Nittaya , Ananworanich Jintanat ,   on behalf of RV254/SEARCH 010 Study Group
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Dolutegravir (DTG) is recommended as part of first‐line antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV(PLHIV). We sought to determine the rate of adverse events (AEs) and discontinuations among Thais treated during acute HIV infection (AHI) and switched to DTG‐based regimens.

Methods

Thai participants in the SEARCH010/RV254 cohort who initiated ART during AHI and switched to DTG for at least 48 weeks were prospectively observed and included in the analysis. Rates and characteristics of DTG‐related AEs and discontinuations were described.

Results

A total of 313 Thai participants were included in the analysis. The median age was 29 years, 96% were male, 64% had a Bachelor's degree or higher and 16% had a body mass index (BMI) <18.5 kg/m2. Participants were on ART for a median of 124 weeks before switching to DTG. The median (IQR) body weight increased from 63 (56 to 70) kg before to 65 (58 to 73) kg (p < 0.0001) after 48 weeks of DTG. Forty‐nine (16%) developed DTG‐related AEs, corresponding to an incidence of 16.6 per 100 person‐years. Neuropsychiatric symptoms were most frequently encountered (n = 25, 8%), followed by laboratory abnormalities (n = 16, 5%). Six (2%) discontinued DTG, corresponding to an incidence of 2.4 per 100 person‐years. All discontinuations were due to increased liver enzymes in the presence of hepatitis C virus coinfection. In the multivariate analysis, incident hepatitis C virus infection was the only risk factor for discontinuing DTG (hazard ratio 59.4, 95% CI 8.5 to 297.9, p < 0.0001). Neither low BMI nor concurrent abacavir therapy was associated with discontinuation.

Conclusions

DTG was well tolerated with few discontinuations in this cohort of young men. Incident hepatitis C virus infection was a driver of liver‐related AEs leading to discontinuations. In populations at risk, regular testing for hepatitis C virus during ART is recommended to anticipate possible AEs, guide management and improve safety.
Identifying cardiovascular risk factors that impact cerebrovascular reactivity: An ASL MRI study
Authors: Soman Salil , Dai Weiying , Dong Lucy , Hitchner Elizabeth , Lee Kyuwon , Baughman Brittanie D. , Holdsworth Samantha J. , Massaband Payam , Bhat Jyoti V. , Moseley Michael E. , Rosen Allyson , Zhou Wei , Zaharchuk Greg
Published: July 2019

Background

To maintain cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood vessels dilate and contract in response to blood supply through cerebrovascular reactivity (CR).

Purpose

Cardiovascular (CV) disease is associated with increased stroke risk, but which risk factors specifically impact CR is unknown.

Study Type

Prospective longitudinal.

Subjects

Fifty‐three subjects undergoing carotid endarterectomy or stenting.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T, 3D pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling (PCASL) ASL, and T1 3D fast spoiled gradient echo (FSPGR).

Assessment

We evaluated group differences in CBF changes for multiple cardiovascular risk factors in patients undergoing carotid revascularization surgery.

Statistical Tests

PRE (baseline), POST (48‐hour postop), and 6MO (6 months postop) whole‐brain CBF measurements, as 129 CBF maps from 53 subjects were modeled as within‐subject analysis of variance (ANOVA). To identify CV risk factors associated with CBF change, the CBF change from PRE to POST, POST to 6MO, and PRE to 6MO were modeled as multiple linear regression with each CV risk factor as an independent variable. Statistical models were performed controlling for age on a voxel‐by‐voxel basis using SPM8. Significant clusters were reported if familywise error (FWE)‐corrected cluster‐level was P < 0.05, while the voxel‐level significance threshold was set for P < 0.001.

Results

The entire group showed significant (cluster‐level P < 0.001) CBF increase from PRE to POST, decrease from POST to 6MO, and no significant difference (all voxels with P > 0.001) from PRE to 6MO. Of multiple CV risk factors evaluated, only elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP, P = 0.001), chronic renal insufficiency (CRI, P = 0.026), and history of prior stroke (CVA, P < 0.001) predicted lower increases in CBF PRE to POST. Over POST to 6MO, obesity predicted lower (P > 0.001) and cholesterol greater CBF decrease (P > 0.001).

Data Conclusion

The CV risk factors of higher SBP, CRI, CVA, BMI, and cholesterol may indicate altered CR, and may warrant different stroke risk mitigation and special consideration for CBF change evaluation.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 5

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:734–747.
Characterization of juvenile spongiotic gingival hyperplasia as an entity of odontogenic origin
Authors: Lafuente‐Ibáñez de Mendoza Irene , Alberdi‐Navarro Javier , Marichalar‐Mendia Xabier , Mosqueda‐Taylor Adalberto , Aguirre‐Urizar Jose Manuel
Published: July 2019

Background

Juvenile spongiotic gingival hyperplasia (JSGH) is a distinct clinicopathological entity of the buccal gingiva of young patients which has been related to several factors such as plaque formation, hormonal modifications, and viral infections; however, its true etiopathogenesis remains unsolved. Several immunohistochemical studies have demonstrated the similarity between the junctional epithelium (JE) and the hyperplasic epithelium of JSGH. The objective of this study is to analyze the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of JSGH to explain its origin.

Methods

Clinicopathlogical data of 10 cases of JSGH (five men and five women) with a mean age of 13 years (range: 9 to 17 years) were collected. CK7, CK14, CK19, CD3, CD20, S100, and Ki‐67 antibodies were used for comparative immunohistochemical study.

Results

All the lesions showed hyperplasic epithelium in its central portion, exhibiting marked spongiosis, vascular proliferation, and a chronic inflammatory infiltrate on the subepithelial connective tissue. CK19 was positive in the whole hyperplasic epithelium of JSGH and the basal layer of the marginal gingiva, while expression of CK14 was present in all epithelial layers of both the JSGH and that of the marginal gingiva. The subepithelial inflammatory infiltrate has a larger amount of CD20 positive cells.

Conclusion

JSGH is a reactive tumor of the gingiva that may have an odontogenic etiology, whose origin seems to be the remnants of JE.
A DFT study on graphene‐based surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy of Benzenedithiol adsorbed on gold/graphene
Authors: You Ting‐Ting , Yang Nan , Shu Ying‐Qi , Yin Peng‐Gang
Published: July 2019

In this study, a detailed analysis on the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering of 1,4‐Benzenedithiol adsorbed on gold/graphene cluster is presented by density functional theory calculations. Results indicate that changing graphene type including perfect graphene, monovacancy graphene, B/N‐doped grapheme, and graphene oxide enables modulation of interaction between molecule, gold, and graphene cluster. Calculated Raman spectra of surface complexes are discussed considering chemical enhancement for graphene‐based surface‐enhanced Raman scattering study, which shows dependence on graphene types, which is related to several influence factors from electronic structure to excitation properties.
Characterization of volatile organic compounds as potential aging markers in Chinese rice wine using multivariable statistics
Authors: Wang Na , Chen Shuang , Zhou Zhemin
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

There is a close relationship between certain ‘aging markers’ in wine and the wine's age. This study aimed to characterize all extracted aging markers in Chinese rice wine and distinguish the ages of Chinese rice wine using principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA).

RESULTS

A total of 49 potential aging markers (P ≤ 0.05*) were extracted from 71 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Chinese rice wine across a range of seven different ages. Of all 49 extracted aging markers, all furans, 2/3 aldehydes and ketones maintained significantly increasing levels with age (P ≤ 0.01**), especially sotolon (0.981**) and acetophenone (0.951**). On the other hand, all sulfides decreased significantly (P ≤ 0.01**). Changes in vanillin, guaiacol, 4‐vinylguaiacol (4‐VG) and 4‐ethylguaiacol (4‐EG) also suggested a potential synthesis during the aging process. The results of PCA and CA demonstrated that Chinese rice wines with different ages could be clearly distinguished from each other, which was consistent with the evolution of the 49 aging markers during the aging process.

CONCLUSION

These 49 potential ‘aging markers’ successfully distinguished ages using PCA and CA. Our results therefore throw light on the characterization of VOCs during Chinese rice wine aging, and provide a quantitative basis for discriminating the ages of Chinese rice wine. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Dietary intake assessment of macro, trace, and toxic elements via consumption of kimchi in South Korea
Authors: Hwang In Min , Yang Ji‐Su , Jung Ji‐Hye , Lee Hae‐Won , Lee Hee Min , Seo Hye‐Young , Khan Naeem , Jamila Nargis , Kim Kyong Su , Kim Sung Hyun
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Kimchi, a Korean food, is now produced and consumed in many other countries. In this study, the macro, trace, and toxic element content in varieties of kimchi from Korea and China was evaluated. A health‐risk assessment, involving the calculation of estimated dietary intake values, was undertaken. To discriminate among samples with different origins, linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied.

RESULTS

The analytical methods used for analyses were successfully validated. In the quantification of elements, no significant differences were detected in the concentrations of the elements that were analyzed. Based on the fresh weight of kimchi, among the macro elements, the concentrations of Na and K were relatively high, with values of 4181.9–9919.8 mg kg−1 and 1661.8–6623.5 mg kg−1, respectively. Among the trace elements that were analyzed, zinc in Korean samples, and strontium in Chinese samples showed the highest concentrations, at 2.67 and 2.98 mg kg−1, respectively. Concentration levels of the toxic trace elements were within permissible limits. The amount of daily intake and provisional daily intake of each element calculated based on kimchi intake confirmed its safety for consumption. Linear discriminant analysis and PCA successfully discriminated among the samples of Chinese and Korean origin.

CONCLUSION

The provisional daily intake of the toxic elements was within provisional tolerable daily intake values. The normal intake of kimchi could not pose a threat upon consumption. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Risk factors for anastomotic leak after esophagectomy for cancer: A NSQIP procedure‐targeted analysis
Authors: Hall Bradley R. , Flores Laura E. , Parshall Zachary S. , Shostrom Valerie K. , Are Chandrakanth , Reames Bradley N.
Published: July 2019

Background

Anastomotic leak is the most common major complication after esophagectomy. We investigated the 2016 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program esophagectomy targeted database to identify risk factors for anastomotic leak.

Methods

Patients who underwent esophagectomy for cancer were included. Patients experiencing an anstomotic leak were identified, and univariate and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify variables independently associated with anastomotic leak.

Results

Of 915 patients included, 83% were male and the median age was 64 years. Patients with anastomotic leak more frequently had additional complications (87% vs 36%, P < .001). Rates of reoperation (64% vs 11%, P < .001) and mortality (8% vs 2%, P = .001) were higher in patients with anastomotic leak. After adjusting for patient and procedure characteristics, prolonged operative time (for each additional 30‐minutes; adjusted odds ratios (AOR) 1.068, 95% CI, 1.022‐1.115, P = .003), increased preoperative WBC count (for each 3000/µL increase; AOR 1.323, 95% CI, 1.048‐1.670, P = .019), pre‐existing diabetes (AOR 1.601, 95% CI, 1.012‐2.534, P = .045), and perioperative transfusion (AOR 1.777, 95% CI, 1.064‐2.965, P = .028) were independently associated with anastomotic leak.

Conclusion

Both patient and procedure‐related factors are associated with anastomotic leak. Though frequently non‐modifiable, these findings could facilitate risk stratification and early detection of anastomotic leak to reduce associated morbidity.
Intracochlear Pressure Changes After Cochlea Implant Electrode Pullback—Reduction of Intracochlear Trauma
Authors: Lauer Gina , Uçta Julica , Decker Lars , Ernst Arneborg , Mittmann Philipp
Published: July 2019

Objective

Different aspects should be considered to achieve an atraumatic insertion of cochlear implant electrode arrays as an important surgical goal. Intracochlear pressure changes are known to influence the preservation of residual hearing. By using the intraoperative “pullback technique,” an electrode position closer to the modiolus can be achieved than without the pullback. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate to what extent the pullback technique can influence intracochlear pressure changes.

Methods

Insertions of cochlear implant electrodes were performed in an artificial cochlear model with two different perimodiolar arrays. Intracochlear pressure changes were recorded with a micro‐optical pressure sensor positioned in the apical part of the cochlear. After complete insertion of the electrode array, a so‐called pullback of the electrode was performed.

Results

Statistically significant pressure differences were measured if the electrode array was wet (ie, moisturized) during the pullback. Relative pressure changes in electrodes with smaller total volume are lower than pressure changes in larger electrodes.

Conclusion

The preservation of residual hearing and, thus, the resulting postoperative audiological outcome has a major impact on the quality of life of the patients and has become of utmost importance. Intracochlear pressure changes during the pullback manoeuver are small in absolute terms, but can even be still reduced statistically significantly by a moistening the electrode before insertion. Using the pullback technique in cases with residual hearing does not affect the probability of preservation of residual hearing but could lead to a better audiological outcome.

Level of Evidence

NA
Integrative genomic analysis identifies associations of molecular alterations to APOBEC and BRCA1/2 mutational signatures in breast cancer
Authors: Trevino Victor
Published: July 2019

Background

The observed mutations in cancer are the result of ~30 mutational processes, which stamp particular mutational signatures (MS). Nevertheless, it is still not clear which genomic alterations correlate to several MS. Here, a method to analyze associations of genomic data with MS is presented and applied to The Cancer Genome Atlas breast cancer data revealing promising associations.

Methods

The MS were discretized into clusters whose extremes were statistically associated with mutations, copy number, and gene expression data.

Results

Known associations for apolipoprotein B editing complex (APOBEC) and for BRCA1 and BRCA2 support the proposal. For BRCA1/2, mutations in ARAP3, three focal deletions, and one amplification were detected. Around 50 mutated genes for the two APOBEC signatures were identified including three kinesins (KIF13A, KIF1B, KIF4A), three ubiquitins (USP45, UBR4, UBR1), and two demethylases (KDM5B, KDM5C) among other genes also connected to DNA damage pathways. The results suggest novel roles for other genes currently not involved in DNA repair. The altered expression program was very high for the BRCA1/2 signature, high for APOBEC signature 13 clearly associated to immune response, and low for APOBEC signature 2. The remaining signatures show scarce associations.

Conclusion

Specific genetic alterations can be associated with particular MS.
Reduced‐bias kernel estimators of a positive extreme value index
Authors: Caeiro Frederico , Henriques‐Rodrigues Lígia
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we deal with the semi‐parametric estimation of the extreme value index, an important parameter in extreme value analysis. It is well known that many classic estimators, such as the Hill estimator, reveal a strong bias. This problem motivated the study of two classes of kernel estimators. Those classes generalize the classical Hill estimator and have a tuning parameter that enables us to modify the asymptotic mean squared error and eventually to improve their efficiency. Since the improvement in efficiency is not very expressive, we also study new reduced bias estimators based on the two classes of kernel statistics. Under suitable conditions, we prove their asymptotic normality. Moreover, an asymptotic comparison, at optimal levels, shows that the new classes of reduced bias estimators are more efficient than other reduced bias estimator from the literature. An illustration of the finite sample behaviour of the kernel reduced‐bias estimators is also provided through the analysis of a data set in the field of insurance.
On the convergence toward nonequilibrium stationary states in thermostatted kinetic models
Authors: Bianca Carlo , Menale Marco
Published: July 2019

A differential equation‐based framework is suitable for the modeling of nonequilibrium complex systems if its solution is able to reach, as time goes to infinity, the related nonequilibrium steady states. The thermostatted kinetic theory framework has been recently proposed for the modeling of complex systems subjected to an external force field. The present paper is devoted to the mathematical proof of the convergence of the solutions of the thermostatted kinetic framework towards the related nonequilibrium stationary states. The proof of the main result is gained by employing the Fourier transform and distribution theory arguments.
Nerve ultrasound can identify treatment‐responsive chronic neuropathies without electrodiagnostic features of demyelination
Authors: Goedee H. Stephan , Herraets Ingrid J. T. , Visser Leo H. , Franssen Hessel , van Asseldonk Jan‐Thies H. , van der Pol W. Ludo , van den Berg Leonard H.
Published: July 2019

Introduction

We present a case series of six treatment‐naive patients with clinical phenotypes compatible with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and multifocal motor neuropathy without electrodiagnostic features of demyelination but with abnormal peripheral ultrasound findings who responded to treatment.

Methods

All six patients underwent a complete set of ancillary investigations, including extensive nerve conduction studies. We also performed standardized nerve ultrasound of median nerves and brachial plexus as part of a larger effort to evaluate diagnostic value of sonography.

Results

Nerve conduction studies did not show conduction block or other signs of demyelination in any of the six patients. Sonographic nerve enlargement was present in all patients and was most prominent in proximal segments of the median nerve and brachial plexus. Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin resulted in objective clinical improvement.

Discussion

Our study provides evidence that nerve ultrasound represents a useful complementary diagnostic tool for the identification of treatment‐responsive inflammatory neuropathies.
Validation of a visual analogue scale for the evaluation of the postoperative anxiety: A prospective observational study
Authors: Labaste François , Ferré Fabrice , Combelles Hélène , Rey Valentin , Foissac Jean‐Christophe , Senechal Anne , Conil Jean‐Marie , Minville Vincent
Published: July 2019

Aim

Anxiety affects the perception of pain during the postoperative period. A simple evaluation scale could improve the management of this component. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility and the consistency of a visual analogue scale for anxiety compared with the reference method, the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).

Design

Observational, prospective, monocentric study of 500 patients in the post‐anaesthetist care unit. Anxiety was evaluated using both the visual analogue scale for anxiety and the STAI in perioperative patients. Consistency between the visual analogue scale for anxiety and the STAI, detection thresholds and factors predicting anxiety were researched.

Results

A correlation was found between the visual analogue scale for anxiety and the STAI. There was also a correlation between pain and anxiety. Analysis of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed a visual analogue scale for anxiety threshold of 34/100 allowing the identification of patients with or without anxiety. Predictive factors for anxiety are female gender, use of benzodiazepine in premedication, emergency surgery and significant pain in the post‐anaesthetist care unit. In summary, visual analogue scale for anxiety is a useful tool for detecting the anxiety component of postoperative pain. It could be used in association with covariates of interest to improve anxiety management during the postoperative period.
Weight bias internalization in a commercial weight management sample: prevalence and correlates
Authors: Pearl R. L. , Himmelstein M. S. , Puhl R. M. , Wadden T. A. , Wojtanowski A. C. , Foster G. D.
Published: July 2019

Objective

Weight bias internalization (WBI) is associated with poor weight‐related health. The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence and correlates of WBI in a large sample of adults in a commercial weight management programme.

Methods

WW (the new Weight Watchers) members participated in an online survey. Participants (N = 18,769) completed the 10‐item Weight Bias Internalization Scale – Modified (WBIS‐M) and the Weight Self‐Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ). Participants reported details about weight‐stigmatizing experiences, including the onset, frequency and distress, and interpersonal sources of weight stigma. Participants self‐reported their demographics, weight history, and height and weight (to compute body mass index [BMI]).

Results

Weight bias internalization was relatively high compared with the general population (mean WBIS‐M score = 4.3 ± 1.4; mean WSSQ total score = 35.2 ± 9.7). WBI was higher among participants who were female, younger and had higher BMIs (p < 0.001) and lower among those who were Black and were widowed or had a romantic partner (p < 0.001). Onset of weight stigma in childhood and young adulthood, and recent distress due to weight stigma, predicted higher WBI. Extended family and school sources of weight stigma had weaker associations with WBI than did other interpersonal sources.

Conclusions

Weight bias was internalized by a significant proportion of adults enrolled in a commercial weight management programme. A phenotype of WBI includes demographic characteristics and the timing and sources of weight stigma.
Oligonucleotide loaded polypeptide‐peptide nanoparticles towards mitochondrial‐targeted delivery
Authors: Cohen‐Erez Ifat , Harduf Noa , Rapaport Hanna
Published: July 2019

Nanoparticles (NPs) consisting of biodegradable and biocompatible polymers may have the ability to deliver a cargo to specific tissue, cell type, and organelle. Various diseases, which are linked to mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) mutations and have no effective treatments, may be approached by gene therapy strategies. In this study, we adapted the recently developed mitochondria delivering polypeptide‐peptide nanoparticles (PoP‐NPs) system to carry an oligonucleotide cargo to the proximity of the mitochondria. PoP‐NPs are formulated by self‐assembly of the negatively charged polypeptide, poly gamma glutamic acid (γ‐PGA), with an amphiphilic and cationic β‐sheet peptide (PFK). Here, we show that PFK interacts favorably with oligonucleotides and thereby enables the formation of DNA‐loaded PoP‐NPs (DNA‐PoP‐NPs). DNA‐PoP‐NPs could be assembled with different peptide to oligonucleotide (N/P) ratios, and their targeting to the proximity of mitochondria in cell culture could be facilitated through NPs coating with PFK peptide.
Anxiety and depression mediate the association between chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy and fatigue: Results from the population‐based PROFILES registry
Authors: Bonhof Cynthia S. , van de Poll‐Franse Lonneke V. , Vissers Pauline A.J. , Wasowicz Dareczka K. , Wegdam Johannes A. , Révész Dóra , Vreugdenhil Gerard , Mols Floortje
Published: July 2019

Objective

Chemotherapy‐induced sensory peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is common among colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors. The aim of this study was to examine whether CIPN is associated with both psychological distress (ie, anxiety and depression) and fatigue and whether the relationship between CIPN and fatigue can (partly) be explained by psychological distress.

Methods

All CRC survivors diagnosed between 2000 and 2009 as registered by the population‐based Netherlands Cancer Registry (Eindhoven region) were eligible for participation. Chemotherapy‐treated survivors completed questions on CIPN (EORTC QLQ‐CIPN20), psychological distress (HADS), and fatigue (FAS) on average 5.6 years after diagnosis. Simple and multiple mediation analyses were performed to examine anxiety and depression as possible mediators in the association between CIPN and fatigue.

Results

Survivors with high (ie, upper 30% of scores) CIPN (n = 172) reported more anxiety and depressive symptoms and more fatigue compared with those with low CIPN (n = 299). Furthermore, among survivors with high CIPN, those who were anxious, depressed, or both reported more fatigue compared with those without psychological distress. These differences were clinically relevant. Finally, mediation analyses showed that while CIPN was directly associated with fatigue, the relationship between CIPN and fatigue was also significantly mediated by both anxiety and depression.

Conclusions

CRC survivors with high CIPN report more fatigue, especially those who are also anxious and/or depressed. More research is needed on the direction of the relationship between CIPN, psychological distress, and fatigue. For now, the treatment of fatigue should also focus on addressing psychological distress, as treating fatigue alone might not be sufficient.
Cognitive factors related to distress in patients recently diagnosed with cancer
Authors: Priede Amador , Hoyuela Fernando , Umaran‐Alfageme Olga , González‐Blanch César
Published: July 2019

Objective

This study aims to analyse the association between rumination and thought suppression and the intensity of psychological distress in a sample of patients with recently diagnosed cancer.

Methods

A total of 131 patients with a recent diagnosis of cancer were assessed within 4 months of diagnosis. All participants completed standardized questionnaires to assess psychological distress, rumination, and thought suppression. Multiple regression and logistic regression models were conducted to determine the associations between these variables.

Results

The multiple regression model explained 50% of variance in psychological distress, with rumination independently explaining more than 16% of the variance. Thought suppression, however, was not significantly associated with distress. The logistic model for caseness of depression and anxiety explained, respectively, 33% and 48% of the variance. Anxiety caseness was also associated with social support and self‐efficacy.

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicate that rumination is an important explanatory variable of psychological distress in patients with recently diagnosed cancer. Statistical models that include rumination could explain a significant proportion of variance of clinical caseness for both anxiety and depression. These findings suggest that assessing rumination in recently diagnosed patients could improve clinical practice by detecting individuals at greater risk of developing more severe psychological distress. These findings suggest that treating rumination as a key component of the therapeutic objectives of psychological interventions could improve clinical outcomes.
Continuous‐Wave Laser Ignition of Non‐Solvent Ionic Liquids Based on High Energetic Salts with Carbon Additives
Authors: Itouyama Noboru , Habu Hiroto
Published: July 2019

The ignition system for ammonium dinitramide‐based non‐solvent ionic liquids (ADN‐EILPs) with a continuous‐wave (CW) laser was investigated. The efficiency of conversion from CW laser power to ignition energy for ADN‐EILPs is important, and carbon additives are expected to enhance the efficiency of conversion. The impact of additive shapes on ADN‐EILP ignition by CW lasers is discussed herein by comparing the results of the ignition behavior observation using a high‐speed infrared camera. The shapes of the carbon additives are of two different types: fine fiber mass, called carbon wool, and powder of graphite. The ignition delay of carbon wool mixed ADN‐EILPs is shorter than that of the sample with graphite powder. The difference in these results might depend on the low dispersibility in ADN‐EILPs of carbon wools and the presence of local heat spots owing to the CW laser. The addition of carbon wools in ADN‐EILPs is expected to facilitate their ignition by CW laser heating.
Non‐Singular Black Holes Interiors Need Physics Beyond the Standard Model
Authors: Brustein Ram , Medved A.J.M.
Published: July 2019

The composition as well as the very existence of the interior of a Schwarzschild black hole (BH) remains at the forefront of interesting, open problems in fundamental physics. To address this issue, we turn to Hawking's “principle of ignorance”, which says that, for an observer with limited information about a physical system, all descriptions that are consistent with known physics are equally valid. We compare three different observers who view the BH from the outside and agree on the external Schwarzschild geometry. First, the modernist, who accepts the classical BH as the final state of gravitational collapse, the singularity theorems that underlie this premise and the central singularity that the theorems predict. The modernist is willing to describe matter in terms of quantum fields in curved space but insists on (semi)classical gravity. Second is the skeptic, who wishes to evade any singular behavior by finding a loophole to the singularity theorems within the realm of classical general relativity (GR). The third is a postmodernist who similarly wants to circumvent the singularity theorems but is willing to invoke exotic quantum physics in the gravitational and/or matter sector to do so. The postmodern view suggests that the uncertainty principle can stabilize a classically singular BH in a similar manner to the stabilization of the classically unstable hydrogen atom: Strong quantum effects in the matter and gravitational sectors resolve the would‐be singularity over horizon‐sized length scales. The postmodern picture then requires a significant departure from (semi)classical gravity, as well as some exotic matter beyond the standard model of particle physics (SM). We find that only the postmodern framework is consistent with what is known so far about BH physics and conclude that a valid description of the BH interior needs matter beyond the SM and gravitational physics beyond (semi)classical GR.
An NMR and MD study of complexes of bacteriophage lambda lysozyme with tetra‐ and hexa‐N‐acetylchitohexaose
Authors: Turupcu Aysegul , Bowen Alice M. , Di Paolo Alexandre , Matagne André , Oostenbrink Chris , Redfield Christina , Smith Lorna J.
Published: July 2019

The X‐ray structure of lysozyme from bacteriophage lambda (λ lysozyme) in complex with the inhibitor hexa‐N‐acetylchitohexaose (NAG6) (PDB: 3D3D) has been reported previously showing sugar units from two molecules of NAG6 bound in the active site. One NAG6 is bound with four sugar units in the ABCD sites and the other with two sugar units in the E′F′ sites potentially representing the cleavage reaction products; each NAG6 cross links two neighboring λ lysozyme molecules. Here we use NMR and MD simulations to study the interaction of λ lysozyme with the inhibitors NAG4 and NAG6 in solution. This allows us to study the interactions within the complex prior to cleavage of the polysaccharide. 1HN and 15N chemical shifts of λ lysozyme resonances were followed during NAG4/NAG6 titrations. The chemical shift changes were similar in the two titrations, consistent with sugars binding to the cleft between the upper and lower domains; the NMR data show no evidence for simultaneous binding of a NAG6 to two λ lysozyme molecules. Six 150 ns MD simulations of λ lysozyme in complex with NAG4 or NAG6 were performed starting from different conformations. The simulations with both NAG4 and NAG6 show stable binding of sugars across the D/E active site providing low energy models for the enzyme‐inhibitor complexes. The MD simulations identify different binding subsites for the 5th and 6th sugars consistent with the NMR data. The structural information gained from the NMR experiments and MD simulations have been used to model the enzyme‐peptidoglycan complex.