bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 95-nm Spacing in Drosophila Polytene Chromatin
Authors: Olesen J.B. , Heckman C.A.
Published: October 2018

Abstract: It has long been debated whether the 30-nm fiber of chromatin is packed in an orderly array. The fiber may be condensed by supercoiling, producing structures of varying diameter. Alternatively, technical problems may have prevented the detection of higher-order structures. We developed a strategy to distinguish between these two possibilities. One potential obstacle to studying the order of packing was the effect of fixatives, dehydrating agents, heat, and embedding polymers on the native structure of chromatin prepared for viewing by electron microscopy. The known tendency of proteins to be degraded by osmium tetroxide and subsequently to be extracted in the conventional protocols for embedding might be particularly damaging. To avoid such denaturants and ensure the retention of proteins in chromatin, the embedding resin HACH was employed. Drosophila mimica polytene chromosomes were thin sectioned, stained with uranyl acetate, and viewed in the transmission electron microscope. Images were digitized and subjected to computerized image processing. Raw data files, containing boundary coordinates of all closed figures in the image, were edited to retain only those regions of interest (ROIs) that exhibited dimensions similar to those of 30-nm fibers in projection views. Euclidean distances between the centroids of such structures were calculated to obtain linear intercepts between recognizable 30-nm fibers. According to stereology theory, the dimensions of a lamellar structure can be determined from the volume distribution function of such intercepts. Therefore, intercept values were pooled for final data files from five processed images of chromatin. The resulting frequency histogram, showing the number of observations at different intercept values, had a sigmoidal inflection that was diagnostic of a major, new spacing at 95 nm. The 95-nm minimum was sandwiched between maxima in the 85 to 90 nm interval and throughout the range 105 to 120 nm. The results suggest that established stereological theory will be a useful tool for investigating the intractable problem of higher-order chromatin structure.
Characterization of Ultrathin Doping Layers in Semiconductors
Authors: Liu C.P. , Dunin-Borkowski R.E. , Boothroyd C.B. , Brown P.D. , Humphreys C.J.
Published: October 2018

Abstract: The compositional profile of a narrow layer of InAsxPl−x in InP has been determined using energy-filtered Fresnel contrast analysis, high-resolution electron microscopy (HREM), and high-angle annular dark-field (HAADF) imaging. The consistency of the results obtained using the three techniques is discussed, and conclusions are drawn both about the validity of interpreting the magnitude of Fresnel contrast data quantitatively and about the degree to which high-angle annular dark-field images of such materials are affected by inelastic scattering and strain.
Long noncoding RNA neuroblastoma-associated transcript 1 gene inhibits malignant cellular phenotypes of bladder cancer through miR-21/SOCS6 axis
Authors: Liu Zhongyuan , Xie Dalong , Zhang Hui
Published: October 2018

Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the most common tumors in the urinary system. Noncoding RNAs are considered to take part in cellular phenotypes and are emerging as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of BC. The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical significance of neuroblastoma- associated transcript 1 (NBAT1) gene and its effects on malignant cellular phenotypes in BC. NBAT1 gene was low-expressed in BC tissues and cell lines and its low-expression was related with high pathological grade and metastasis of BC. Upregulation of NBAT1 gene depressed cell viability and invasiveness of KK47 and T24 cells and arrested KK47 and T24 cells at G1 stage. In addition, NBAT1 could target silence the expression of miR-21-5p in RNA-induced silencing complex-dependent manner. KK47 and T24 cells with miR-21-5p knockdown showed reduced cell viability, G1-stage arrest, and depressed invasiveness. MiR-21-5p mediates the regulatory effects of NBAT1 on malignant cellular phenotypes of BC cells. Moreover, SOCS6 gene was a target gene of miR-21-5p, and miR-21-5p modulated malignant cellular phenotypes of KK47 and T24 cells through targeted silencing of SOCS6. In conclusion, low-expression of NBAT1 is associated with the progress and metastasis of BC, and NBAT1 inhibits malignant cellular phenotypes through miR-21-5p/SOCS6 axis in BC. Our findings help to elucidate the tumorigenesis of BC, and future study will provide a novel therapeutic target for BC.
Machine learning and structural analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis pan-genome identifies genetic signatures of antibiotic resistance
Authors: Kavvas Erol S. , Catoiu Edward , Mih Nathan , Yurkovich James T. , Seif Yara , Dillon Nicholas , Heckmann David , Anand Amitesh , Yang Laurence , Nizet Victor , Monk Jonathan M. , Palsson Bernhard O.
Published: October 2018

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a serious human pathogen threat exhibiting complex evolution of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Accordingly, the many publicly available datasets describing its AMR characteristics demand disparate data-type analyses. Here, we develop a reference strain-agnostic computational platform that uses machine learning approaches, complemented by both genetic interaction analysis and 3D structural mutation-mapping, to identify signatures of AMR evolution to 13 antibiotics. This platform is applied to 1595 sequenced strains to yield four key results. First, a pan-genome analysis shows that M. tuberculosis is highly conserved with sequenced variation concentrated in PE/PPE/PGRS genes. Second, the platform corroborates 33 genes known to confer resistance and identifies 24 new genetic signatures of AMR. Third, 97 epistatic interactions across 10 resistance classes are revealed. Fourth, detailed structural analysis of these genes yields mechanistic bases for their selection. The platform can be used to study other human pathogens.
Salmonella enterica isolates from Western Australian rangeland goats remain susceptible to critically important antimicrobials
Authors: Al-Habsi Khalid , Jordan David , Harb Ali , Laird Tanya , Yang Rongchang , O’Dea Mark , Jacobson Caroline , Miller David W. , Ryan Una , Abraham Sam
Published: October 2018

This study investigated faecal carriage and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of Salmonella enterica recovered from rangeland goats. Faecal samples (n = 400) were collected at slaughter from four consignments of goats (n = 100 samples per consignment), each from one of four localities in Western Australia. Carriage of Salmonella spp. was detected in 106 samples (26.5%; 95% CI 22.4–31.0%). The rate of faecal carriage for each consignment ranged between 23–30%. PCR assays targeting the STM2755 and STM4497 genes revealed 84.9% (90/106) of the isolates were of serovar Typhimurium. Salmonella Chester (11/106, 10.4%) and S. Saintpaul (5/106, 4.7%) were characterised at invA and ompF genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing demonstrated that 84.0% of isolates were susceptible to all tested (n = 13) antimicrobials. Resistance was identified to azithromycin (14.2%), tetracycline (10.4%), ampicillin (5.7%), amoxicillin–clavulanate and cefoxitin (3.8%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (1.9%), gentamicin and streptomycin (0.9%). No isolate was resistant to four or more antimicrobials, or to critically important antimicrobials such as fluoroquinolones and extended spectrum cephalosporins. This is the first study reporting AMR in Salmonella isolates from Australian rangeland goats. The rate of detection of AMR was very low, some resistance to low-importance drugs was present in the Salmonella population, despite the absence of active selection pressure.
Acclimation responses of macaw palm seedlings to contrasting light environments
Authors: Dias Adriel N. , Siqueira-Silva Advanio I. , Souza João P. , Kuki Kacilda N. , Pereira Eduardo G.
Published: October 2018

The photosynthetic adjustments of macaw palm (Acrocomia aculeata) were evaluated in 30-day-old seedlings exposed to high and low light environments, and sudden transference from low to high light and comparisons were made with the hardening protocol used in nurseries. Furthermore, we evaluated the responses to long-term exposure (265 days) to high and low light environments. Macaw palm seedlings exhibited an efficient mechanism that maximized light capture under scarce conditions, and dissipated excess energy to avoid damaging to the photosystem II under high light. The seedlings showed low saturation irradiance but no photoinhibition when exposed to excess light. When grown under low light intensities, seedlings presented higher photochemical efficiency and minimized the respiratory costs with positive carbon balance at lower irradiance than hardened seedlings did. The hardening procedure did not appear to be an advantageous method during seedling production. Long-term exposure to either low or high light did not cause significant leaf anatomical adjustments. However, the low light seedlings showed higher leaf area and chlorophyll content than those exposed to higher light intensity did, which enabled shaded seedlings to maximize the captured light. Furthermore, the high non-photochemical dissipation allowed rapid acclimation to excessive light exposure. These responses allow macaw palm cultivation and establishment in very different light environments.
Xenon solubility and formation of supercritical xenon precipitates in glasses under non-equilibrium conditions
Authors: Mir Anamul H. , Hinks J. A. , Delaye Jean-Marc , Peuget Sylvain , Donnelly S. E.
Published: October 2018

Estimates of noble gas solubility in glasses and minerals are important to understand the origin of these gases, particularly xenon, in the atmosphere. However, technical difficulties and ambiguities in quantifying the dissolved gases introduce large uncertainties in the solubility estimates. We present here the use of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with in-situ noble gas ion implantation as a non-equilibrium approach for noble gas solubility estimates. Using a suitable Xe equation of state and Monte-Carlo simulations of TEM images, a clear distinction between Xe filled precipitates and empty voids is made. Furthermore, implantation-induced changes in the solubility are estimated using molecular dynamics simulations. These studies allow us to evaluate the xenon solubility of irradiated and pristine silica glasses and monitor in-situ the diffusion-mediated dynamics between the precipitates and voids — otherwise impossible to capture. On exceeding the solubility limit, supercritical xenon precipitates, stable at least up to 1155 K, are formed. The results highlight the high capacity of silicates to store xenon and, predict higher solubility of radiogenic xenon due to the accompanying radiation damage.
Thermal and seismic hints for chimney type cross-stratal fluid flow in onshore basins
Authors: Dentzer Jacques , Bruel Dominique , Delescluse Matthias , Chamot-Rooke Nicolas , Beccaletto Laurent , Lopez Simon , Courrioux Gabriel , Violette Sophie
Published: October 2018

When modelling onshore sedimentary basins, modellers generally assume that semi-permeable layers (aquitards) greatly restrict vertical flow between aquifers. Aquitards are therefore considered as confining media and vertical flow is assumed to take place mainly within localised permeable faults, if any. In the offshore context, however, interpretation of seismic data frequently provides evidence of fluid flow between sedimentary layers via structurally disrupted formations (pervasive fractures) recognised as zones of reduced seismic amplitude and generically called “chimneys”. Here we show that chimneys are also present onshore, and that they crosscut confining layers. In the Anglo-Paris Basin, seismic data suggest 1 to 2 km wide zones of disrupted seismic signal spatially correlated to a hitherto unexplained major temperature anomaly of 20 °C. When included in geothermal models using a five-order increase in permeabilities with respect to confining layers, we find that fluid flows vertically through aquifers and confining layers, thereby explaining this major temperature anomaly. Despite the importance of their hydrodynamic and thermal impacts, chimneys – less obvious than faults – have been overlooked as fluid flow paths in many onshore sedimentary basins exploited for their resources. This indicates a clear need for better understanding of pervasive flow paths, especially as the resources and properties of basins (i.e. conventional and unconventional hydrocarbons, geothermal potential, CO2 storage, nuclear waste repository, drinking water, etc.) are increasingly being harnessed.
Sintered precipitated iron catalysts with enhanced fragmentation-resistance ability for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis to lower olefins
Authors: Chen Yanping , Ni Youming , Liu Yong , Liu Hongchao , Ma Xiangang , Liu Shiping , Zhu Wenliang , Liu Zhongmin
Published: October 2018

Sintered precipitated iron catalysts effectively improved the catalyst fragmentation in the Fischer–Tropsch to lower olefins reaction.
Correction: Giant resistive switching in mixed phase BiFeO3via phase population control
Authors: Edwards David , Browne Niall , Holsgrove Kristina M. , Naden Aaron B. , Sayedaghaee Sayed O. , Xu Bin , Prosandeev Sergey , Wang Dawei , Mazumdar Dipanjan , Duchamp Martial , Gupta Arunava , Kalinin Sergei V. , Arredondo Miryam , McQuaid Raymond G. P. , Bellaiche Laurent , Gregg J. Marty , Kumar Amit
Published: October 2018

Correction for ‘Giant resistive switching in mixed phase BiFeO3via phase population control’ by David Edwards et al., Nanoscale, 2018, 10, 17629–17637.
Synthesis of 3,6-diaryl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines via one-pot sequential Suzuki–Miyaura coupling
Authors: Urvashi Urvashi , Tandon Vibha , Das Parthasarathi , Kukreti S.
Published: October 2018

An efficient method to produce diarylpyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines derivatives via combination of chemoselective Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions has been developed.
Enhanced oxygen reduction activity of Pt shells on PdCu truncated octahedra with different compositions
Authors: Wu Xingqiao , Xu Qingfeng , Yan Yucong , Huang Jingbo , Li Xiao , Jiang Yi , Zhang Hui , Yang Deren
Published: October 2018

PdxCu@Pt core–shell truncated octahedra were synthesized and exhibited substantially enhanced catalytic properties for oxygen reduction reaction relative to Pt/C.
Mesophase behavior of new linear supramolecular hydrogen-bonding complexes
Authors: Ahmed H. A. , Hagar M. , Aljuhani A.
Published: October 2018

PLM textures of (a) SmA phase of II8 at 105.0 °C; (b) SmC phase of complex I10/II8 at 183.0 °C; and (c) nematic phase the complex I10/II8 at 225.0 °C.
Fibrous polymer nanomaterials for biomedical applications and their transport by fluids: an overview
Authors: Pawłowska S. , Kowalewski T. A. , Pierini F.
Published: October 2018

Development and rheological property evaluation of fibrous polymer nanomaterials for novel biomedical applications related to material targeting: a review.
Suction effects of craters under water
Authors: Qiao Shutao , Wang Liu , Ha Kyoung-Ho , Lu Nanshu
Published: October 2018

Octopus-inspired cratered surfaces have recently emerged as a new class of reusable physical adhesives.
Hydrazinium-assisted stabilisation of methylammonium tin iodide for lead-free perovskite solar cells
Authors: Tsarev Sergey , Boldyreva Aleksandra G. , Luchkin Sergey Yu. , Elshobaki Moneim , Afanasov Mikhail I. , Stevenson Keith J. , Troshin Pavel A.
Published: October 2018

Here we explore the effect of the partial substitution of univalent methylammonium cations (MA) with hydrazinium ions (HA) on the stability, morphology and photovoltaic performance of hybrid MA(1−x)HAxSnI3 systems.
Thermal conversion of wheat-like metal organic frameworks to achieve MgO/carbon composites with tunable morphology and microwave response
Authors: Quan Bin , Liang Xiaohui , Yi Heng , Chen Yutian , Xiang Junxian , Xu Guoyue , Ji Guangbin
Published: October 2018

A simple thermal-conversion strategy enabled high-efficiency MgO/NPC microwave absorbers with different morphologies and distinct conductivity to be formed.
Byproduct-free curing of a highly insulating polyethylene copolymer blend: an alternative to peroxide crosslinking
Authors: Mauri Massimiliano , Peterson Anna , Senol Ayça , Elamin Khalid , Gitsas Antonis , Hjertberg Thomas , Matic Aleksandar , Gkourmpis Thomas , Prieto Oscar , Müller Christian
Published: October 2018

An alternative crosslinking concept for the insulation of HVDC power cables that uses click chemistry is presented.
Crustal heating in accreting neutron stars from the nuclear energy-density functional theory
Authors: Fantina A. F. , Zdunik J. L. , Chamel N. , Pearson J. M. , Haensel P. , Goriely S.
Published: October 2018

Context.X-ray observations of soft X-ray transients in quiescence suggest the existence of heat sources in the crust of accreted neutron stars. Heat is thought to be released by electroweak and nuclear processes triggered by the burying of ashes of X-ray bursts.

Aims.The heating in the crust of accreting neutron stars is studied using a fully quantum approach taking consistently into account nuclear shell effects.

Methods.To this end, we have followed the evolution of ashes made of56Fe employing the nuclear energy-density functional theory. Both the outer and inner crusts are described using the same functional, thus ensuring a unified and thermodynamically consistent treatment. To assess the role of accretion on the structure of the crust, we have employed the set of accurately calibrated Brussels–Montreal functionals BSk19, BSk20, and BSk21, for which the equations of state of nonaccreted neutron stars have been already calculated. These energy-density functionals were fitted to the same set of nuclear masses but were simultaneously adjusted to realistic neutron-matter equations of state with different degrees of stiffness at suprasaturation densities. For comparison, we have also considered the SLy4 functional.

Results. Due to nuclear shell effects, the interior of fully accreted crust is found to be much less stratified than in previous studies. In particular, large regions of the inner crust contain clusters with the magic numberZ = 14. The heat deposited in the outer crust is tightly constrained by experimental atomic mass data. The shallow heating we obtain does not exceed 0.2 MeV per accreted nucleon and is therefore not enough to explain the cooling of some soft X-ray transients. The total heat released in the crust is very sensitive to details of the nuclear structure and is predicted to lie in the range from 1.5 MeV to 1.7 MeV per accreted nucleon.

Conclusions.The evolution of an accreted matter element and therefore the location of heat sources are governed to a large extent by the existence of nuclear shell closures. Ignoring these effects in the inner crust, the total heat falls to ∼0.6 MeV per accreted nucleon.
Radiation Dose Optimization in Pediatric Chest CT: Major Indicators of Dose Exposure in 1695 CT Scans over Seven Years
Authors: Esser Michael , Hess Sabine , Teufel Matthias , Kraus Mareen , Schneeweiß Sven , Gatidis Sergios , Schaefer Juergen , Tsiflikas Ilias
Published: October 2018

Purpose To analyze possible influencing factors on radiation exposure in pediatric chest CT using different approaches for radiation dose optimization and to determine major indicators for dose development.

Materials and Methods In this retrospective study at a clinic with maximum care facilities including pediatric radiology, 1695 chest CT examinations in 768 patients (median age: 10 years; range: 2 days to 17.9 years) were analyzed. Volume CT dose indices, effective dose, size-specific dose estimate, automatic dose modulation (AEC), and high-pitch protocols (pitch ≥ 3.0) were evaluated by univariate analysis. The image quality of low-dose examinations was compared to higher dose protocols by non-inferiority testing.

Results Median dose-specific values annually decreased by an average of 12 %. High-pitch mode (n = 414) resulted in lower dose parameters (p < 0.001). In unenhanced CT, AEC delivered higher dose values compared to scans with fixed parameters (p < 0.001). In contrast-enhanced CT, the use of AEC yielded a significantly lower radiation dose only in patients older than 16 years (p = 0.04). In the age group 6 to 15 years, the values were higher (p < 0.001). The diagnostic image quality of low-dose scans was non-inferior to high-dose scans (2.18 vs. 2.14).

Conclusion Radiation dose of chest CT was reduced without loss of image quality in the last decade. High-pitch scanning was an independent factor in this context. Dose reduction by AEC was limited and only relevant for patients over 16 years.

Key Points

Citation Format
Selecting Patients for Lobar Lung Volume Reduction Therapy: What Quantitative Computed Tomography Parameters Matter?
Authors: Theilig Dorothea , Huebner Ralf-Harto , Neumann Konrad , Poellinger Alexander , Doellinger Felix
Published: October 2018

Purpose Evaluation of emphysema distribution with quantitative computed tomography (qCT) prior to endoscopic lung volume reduction (ELVR) is recommended. The aim of this study was to determine which of the commonly assessed qCT parameters prior to endoscopic lung volume reduction (ELVR) best predicts outcome of treatment.

Materials and Methods 50 patients who underwent technically successful ELVR at our institution were retrospectively analyzed. We performed quantitative analysis of the CT scans obtained prior to ELVR and carried out Mann-Whitney U-tests and a logistic regression analysis to identify the qCT parameters that predict successful outcome of ELVR in terms of improved forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1).

Results In the Mann-Whitney U-test, the interlobar emphysema heterogeneity index (p = 0.008) and the pulmonary emphysema score (p = 0.022) showed a statistically significant difference between responders and non-responders. In multiple logistic regression analysis only the interlobar emphysema heterogeneity index (p = 0.008) showed a statistically significant impact on the outcome of ELVR, while targeted lobe volume, total lung volume, targeted lobe emphysema score and total lung emphysema score did not.

Conclusion Of all commonly assessed quantitative CT parameters, only the heterogeneity index definitely allows prediction of ELVR outcome in patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Key Points 

Citation Format
Chroniker und Metallbelastungen aus der Mundhöhle
Authors: Klehmet Martin F.H.K.
Published: October 2018

Insbesondere bei chronisch Erkrankten ist die Möglichkeit einer sich pathologisch auswirkenden Metallbelastung aus der Mundhöhle gegeben. Diese sind toxikologisch und mittels Immundiagnostik zu untersuchen. In der Therapie gilt es, den Körper von den Belastungen zu befreien. Hierfür sind die Chelat- und Orthomolekulartherapie empfehlenswert.
Hearing Rehabilitation through Bone-Conducted Sound Stimulation: Preliminary Results
Authors: Bahmad Jr Fayez , Cardoso Carolina , Caldas Fernanda , Barreto Monique , Hilgenberg Anacléia , Teixeira Marina , Serra Lucieny
Published: October 2018

Introduction The bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA) is a bone conduction system that transmits the sound directly to the inner ear by surpassing the skin impedance and the subcutaneous tissue. It is indicated for patients with mixed, conductive and unilateral sensorineural hearing loss who did not benefit from conventional hearing aids (HAs). Although the benefits from BAHA are well demonstrated internationally, this field still lacks studies in Brazil.

Objective To assess the auditory rehabilitation process in BAHA users through audiological, speech perception and tinnitus aspects.

Methods Individuals with hearing loss were assessed before and after the implantation. The participants were subjected to pure tone audiometry in free field, functional gain audiometry, speech perception tests, tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) in open format, and to the visual analog scale (VAS).

Results It was found that the participants benefited from the use of BAHA. The difference in the performance of the participants before and after the BAHA surgery was significant in terms of hearing acuity. There was no statistically significant difference in the speech perception tests. The tinnitus assessment showed that 80% of the participants scored slight tinnitus severity in THI after using a BAHA. Eighty percent of the participants classified their tinnitus as absent to mild in the VAS after the surgery.

Conclusion Based on the results of the current study, we can conclude that the participants improved both the auditory perception and the tinnitus handicap.
Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to Foramen Magnum Meningioma—Technical Note and Case Example
Authors: Romero Flavio , Vieira Rodolfo , Ancheschi Bruno
Published: October 2018

Foramen magnum (FM) tumors represent one of the most complex cases for the neurosurgeon, due to their location in a very anatomically complex region surrounded by the brainstem and the lower cranial nerves, by bony elements of the craniocervical junction, and by the vertebrobasilar vessels. Currently, the open approach of choice is a lateral extension of the posterior midline approach including far lateral, and extreme lateral routes. However, the transoraltranspharyngeal approach remains the treatment of choice in cases of diseases affecting the craniocervical junction. For very selective cases, the endoscopic endonasal route to this region is another option. We present a case of a ventral FM meningioma treated exclusively with the endoscopic endonasal approach.
Radiation-Induced Uterine Carcinosarcoma after Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy for Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Moreira-Barros Joana , Huang Kuan-Gen , Tsai Tsung-Hsun
Published: October 2018

Objective To describe a case of radiation-induced uterine carcinosarcoma 6 years after a cervical squamous cell carcinoma treatment, which imposed some diagnostic and management challenges.

Case Report A 57-year-old woman with a history of pelvic chemoradiotherapy ∼ 6.5 years before the event described in this study, following an International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IIB cervical cancer, presented with a cervical mass, involving the uterine cavity, the cervical canal and the upper two thirds of the vagina. The biopsy showed a poorly differentiated carcinoma, and a positron emission tomography (PET) scan excluded distant metastasis, although it was unable to define the origin of the tumor as either a new primary malignancy of the endometrium/cervix or as a cervical recurrence. Surgical staging procedure was performed, and the diagnosis was endometrial carcinosarcoma, FIGO stage IIB. The patient was not able to complete the adjuvant therapy, and the progression of the disease was remarkable.

Conclusion The present case highlights one of the less common but more serious consequences of radiotherapy for cervical cancer, which has an increasing incidence in younger women, raising concerns about the long-term consequences of its management.
Schadstoffe als Ursache oder Auslöser endokriner Störungen und chronischer Erkrankungen
Authors: Schulte-Uebbing Claus , Landenberger Martin , Pfab Florian , Antal Liana
Published: October 2018

Pestizide, Schwermetalle, Weichmacher, Schadstoffe aus dem Tabakrauch und andere Substanzen wirken als Endokrine Disruptoren und können chronische Erkankungen und Tumorwachstum fördern sowie Alterungsprozesse von Geweben beschleunigen. Aminosäuren sind in der Lage, neoplastischen Prozessen entgegenzuwirken, beeinflussen neurochemische Resilienzfaktoren und ZNS-Faktoren positiv, beugen Insulinresistenz und damit Diabetes vor. Auch für die Detoxifikation eliminationspflichtiger lipophiler Substrate ist die ausreichende Versorgung mit Aminosäuren notwendig. Endokrine Disruptoren können immunologische und neurologische Regelkreise stören, den Aminosäurestoffwechsel empfindlich beeinträchtigen und zu einem deutlich erhöhten Bedarf an Aminosäuren führen. Eine gezielte individuelle laborkontrollierte Aminosäurezufuhr kann ein effektives therapeutisches Element in der angewandten Präventivmedizin sein.
Unintentionally doped hydrogen removal mechanism in Li doped ZnO
Authors: Zhu Yanming , Li Jingyuan , Ji Xu , Li Titao , Jin Mingge , Ou Xinwen , Shen Xiaomei , Wang Weiliang , Huang Feng
Published: October 2018

Up to now, the influence of unintentionally doped H in ZnO on electronic properties still perplexes us. Recently, it had been found in experiment that the introduction of Li would dramatically decrease the stability of H. In order to clarify the inner physical mechanism behind the phenomenon, we investigated the formation energy and the potential barrier height for H movement in ZnO with different configuration of doped Li by employing first-principle calculation. It is revealed that interstitial Li (Lii) facilitates the escape of H from trap of ZnO lattice and reduces the potential barrier due to electrostatic interaction. Our methodology can also be extended to analyze the stability of trace element in other semiconductors.
MiR-1204 promotes ovarian squamous cell carcinoma growth by increasing glucose uptake
Authors: Xu Jia , Gu XiaoLi , Yang Xiaozhuo , Meng Yuejin
Published: October 2018

MiR-1204 has been recently identified as an oncogenic miRNA in breast cancer. Our study aims to investigate the role of miR-1204 in ovarian squamous cell carcinoma. Expression of miR-1204 and glucose transporter 1 in ovarian biopsies and plasma of both OC patients and healthy controls was detected by qRT-PCR. Correlations between patients’ clinicopathological data were analyzed by Chi-square test. MiR-1204 overexpression OC cell lines were established. Expression of GLUT-1 protein was detected by western blot. Glucose uptake was measured by glucose uptake assay. Cell proliferation was detected by CCK-8 assay. We found that miR-1204 expression was significantly correlated with tumor size. Expression levels of miR-1204 and GLUT-1 were significantly high in OC patients. Expression levels of miR-1204 were positively correlated with expression levels of GLUT-1 in OC patients. MiR-1204 overexpression significantly promoted GLUT-1 expression, glucose uptake and cell proliferation. MiR-1204 may promote ovarian squamous cell carcinoma growth by increasing glucose uptake.
Silencing of cyt-c4 led to decrease of biofilm formation in Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Li Huiyao , Qin Yingxue , Mao Xiuxiu , Zheng Wanmei , Luo Gang , Xu Xiaojin , Zheng Jiang
Published: October 2018

Aquaculture suffers from a number of diseases caused by Aeromonas hydrophila. Biofilm can protect bacteria from antibiotic therapy. To identify the genes those play crucial roles in A. hydrophila biofilm formation, a library of mini-Tn10 transposon insertion mutants of A. hydrophila B11 has been constructed, and 10 mutants were subjected to biofilm formation assay. The biofilm formation ability of mutant (B188) was significantly decreased compared with B11. The DNA sequence flanking the mini-Tn10 transposon inserted showed that an ORF of approximately 576 bp of the mutant strain B188 was inserted. This ORF putatively displays the highest identity (92%) with the cytochrome c4 gene (cyt-c4) of A. hydrophila subsp. hydrophila ATCC 7966. Silencing cyt-c4 led to deficiencies in biofilm formation, adhesion, drug resistance and pathogenicity of A. hydrophila, which suggests that cyt-c4 plays crucial role in the biofilm formation and virulence mechanisms of A. hydrophila.

ABBREVIATIONS: GEN: gentamycin; SDZ: sulfadiazine; AK: amikacin; P: penicillin; CFP: cefoperazone; LEV: levofloxacin; MH: minocycline; FFC: florfenicol; TE: tetracycline; AMP: ampicillin; KAN: kanamycin; STR: streptomycin; SXT: sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim; DO: doxycycline; OT: Oxytetracycline.
DREADD technology reveals major impact of Gq signalling on cardiac electrophysiology
Authors: Kaiser Elisabeth , Tian Qinghai , Wagner Michael , Barth Monika , Xian Wenying , Schröder Laura , Ruppenthal Sandra , Kaestner Lars , Boehm Ulrich , Wartenberg Philipp , Lu Huiyan , McMillin Sara M , Bone Derek B J , Wess Jürgen , Lipp Peter
Published: October 2018

Aims

Signalling via Gq-coupled receptors is of profound importance in many cardiac diseases such as hypertrophy and arrhythmia. Nevertheless, owing to their widespread expression and the inability to selectively stimulate such receptors in vivo, their relevance for cardiac function is not well understood. We here use DREADD technology to understand the role of Gq-coupled signalling in vivo in cardiac function.

Methods and results

We generated a novel transgenic mouse line that expresses a Gq-coupled DREADD (Dq) in striated muscle under the control of the muscle creatine kinase promotor. In vivo injection of the DREADD agonist clozapine-N-oxide (CNO) resulted in a dose-dependent, rapid mortality of the animals. In vivo electrocardiogram data revealed severe cardiac arrhythmias including lack of P waves, atrioventricular block, and ventricular tachycardia. Following Dq activation, electrophysiological malfunction of the heart could be recapitulated in the isolated heart ex vivo. Individual ventricular and atrial myocytes displayed a positive inotropic response and arrhythmogenic events in the absence of altered action potentials. Ventricular tissue sections revealed a strong co-localization of Dq with the principal cardiac connexin CX43. Western blot analysis with phosphor-specific antibodies revealed strong phosphorylation of a PKC-dependent CX43 phosphorylation site following CNO application in vivo.

Conclusion

Activation of Gq-coupled signalling has a major impact on impulse generation, impulse propagation, and coordinated impulse delivery in the heart. Thus, Gq-coupled signalling does not only modulate the myocytes’ Ca2+ handling but also directly alters the heart’s electrophysiological properties such as intercellular communication. This study greatly advances our understanding of the plethora of modulatory influences of Gq signalling on the heart in vivo.
A dearth of atomic hydrogen in NGC 1052-DF2
Authors: Chowdhury Aditya
Published: October 2018

The recently claimed discovery of an ultra-diffuse galaxy lacking dark matter has important implications for alternate theories to dark matter as well as models of galaxy formation in the lambda cold dark matter context. In this letter, we present a deep Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope search for atomic hydrogen in this ultra-diffuse galaxy, NGC 1052-DF2. We report a non-detection of the H i 21cm transition from the galaxy and place a stringent upper limit on the H i  mass of the galaxy – $\rm{M}_{\rm H\, {\small {I}}} \lt 3.15 \times 10^6 \ ({\Delta V}/20 \ \rm{km/s})^{1/2} \ \rm{M}_\odot \ (3\sigma)$. This makes NGC 1052-DF2 an extremely gas-poor galaxy with an atomic gas to stellar mass fraction of $\rm{M}_{\rm H\, {\small {I}}}/\rm{M}_* \ \lt \ 0.016 \ ({\Delta V}/20 \ \rm{km/s})^{1/2} \ (3\sigma)$. Such low gas fractions are typical of dwarf ellipticals in dense environments and would be consistent with NGC 1052-DF2 having undergone a tidal stripping event which can also explain its apparent lack of dark matter.
Relevant advances in bone lengthening research: a bibliometric analysis of the 100 most-cited articles published from 2001 to 2017
Authors: Mohedano Alba , Castillo Ana , de Pablos Julio , Barrios Carlos
Published: October 2018

This study aimed to assess the scientific production of bone lengthening research by identifying the most-cited papers. All articles including the term ‘bone lengthening’ published between 2001 and 2017 were retrieved through the Web of Science database. The 100 most-cited articles on bone lengthening included a total of 4244 citations, with 414 (9.7%) citations in 2017. There was an average of 249.6 citations per year. The articles predominantly addressed biomechanics and bone formation (38). Different surgical techniques, including intramedullary nail (14), Ilizarov (nine), intramedullary skeletal kinetic distractor (ISKD) (six), Taylor spatial frame (6), the PRECICE device (three), and lengthening and submuscular locking plate (three), were the second most-studied topic. Most studies were therapeutic (58), whereas 30 studies were experimental investigations using animal models. Among the clinical studies, case series were predominant (level of evidence IV) (57). This study presents the first bibliometric analysis of the most relevant articles on bone lengthening. The list is relatively comprehensive in terms of identifying the top issues in this field. However, the most influential clinical studies have a poor level of evidence, although a slight tendency toward a better level of evidence has been observed in more recent years.
Associations between multipollutant day types and select cardiorespiratory outcomes in Columbia, South Carolina, 2002 to 2013
Authors: Pearce John L. , Neelon Brian , Bozigar Matthew , Hunt Kelly J. , Commodore Adwoa , Vena John
Published: October 2018

Background:

Health studies of air pollution are increasingly aiming to study associations between air pollutant mixtures and health.

Objective:

Estimate associations between observed combinations of ambient air pollutants and select cardiorespiratory outcomes in Columbia, South Carolina, during 2002 to 2013.

Methods:

We estimate associations using a two-stage approach. First, we identified a collection of observed pollutant combinations, which we define as multipollutant day types (MDTs), by applying a self-organizing map to daily measures of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), and particulate matter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5). Then, overdispersed Poisson time-series models were used to estimate associations between MDTs and each outcome using a “clean” MDT referent and controlling for long-term, seasonal, and day-of-the-week trends and meteorology. Outcomes included daily emergency department visits for asthma and upper respiratory infection (URI) and hospital admissions for congestive heart failure (CHF) and ischemic heart disease (IHD).

Results:

We found that a number of MDTs were significantly and positively associated (point estimates ranged from ≈2% to 5%) with cardiorespiratory outcomes in Columbia when compared to days with low pollution. Estimated associations revealed that outcomes for asthma, URIs, and IHD increased 2–4% on warm, dry days experiencing elevated levels of O3 and PM2.5. We also found that cooler days with higher NO2 pollution associated with increased asthma, CHF, and IHD outcomes (2–5%).

Conclusion:

Our analysis continues support for using self-organizing maps to develop multipollutant exposure metrics and further illustrates how such metrics can be applied to explore associations between pertinent pollutant combinations and health.
Role for OBGYNs in Gender-Affirming Surgical Care of Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Individuals
Authors: CRISSMAN HALLEY , RANDOLPH JOHN F.
Published: October 2018

Many transgender and gender nonconforming individuals have undergone, or plan to pursue, gender-affirming surgery as part of their transition. While not all gender-affirming surgeries are provided by Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OBGYNs), OBGYNs are uniquely skilled to perform certain gender-affirming surgeries such as hysterectomies, bilateral oophorectomies, and vaginectomies. OBGYNs are also well positioned to provide anatomy-specific cancer screening as dictated by patient’s hormonal and surgical status, and to address postsurgical or natal vulvovaginal concerns.
Quality Improvement Program Outcomes for Endotracheal Intubation in the Emergency Department
Authors: Hwang Sung Yeon , Park Joo Hyun , Yoon Hee , Cha Won Chul , Jo Ik Joon , Sim Min Seob , Song Keun Jeong , Woo Hyo Jung , Jeong Sung Geun , Shin Tae Gun
Published: October 2018

Objectives

We describe our 3-year experience with endotracheal intubation (ETI) outcomes during a multidisciplinary emergency department (ED)-based quality improvement (QI) program.

Methods

This was a single-center, observational study taking place during a QI program. We used a registry for airway management performed in the ED from April 2014 to February 2017. The QI program focused on procedural standardization, airway management education, and comprehensive preparation of airway equipment. The primary outcome was first-pass success (FPS) rate. The secondary outcomes were multiple-attempts rate and overall rate of complications.

Results

A total of 1087 emergent ETIs were included. The FPS rate significantly increased from 68% in the first year to 74% in the second year and 79% in the third year (P for trend <0.01). The multiple-attempts rate in the first year was 12%, followed by 7% and 6% in the second and third years, respectively (P for trend <0.01). The overall complication rate was 16% in the first year, 8% in the second year, and 8% in the third year (P for trend <0.01).

Conclusions

We observed improved ETI outcomes in the ED, including increased FPS rate and decrease in multiple-attempt rate and overall complication rate during the multidisciplinary QI program to enhance patient safety.
Infrastructure Design: A Critical Element in the Care of the Patient With Obesity
Authors: Ortiz Vilma E. , Ottolino Rick J. , Matz Mary W. , Uppot Raul N. , Winters Bob
Published: October 2018

The worldwide rate of obesity continues to rise, causing healthcare systems to morph to meet the demands posed by the concomitant increase in comorbidities associated with this condition. Increasing patient weight imposes its own constraints on the safety of patients and providers; therefore, a sound healthcare facility infrastructure is required to properly address the medical needs of patients with obesity. Currently, most healthcare systems—in their attitudes, equipment, and facility design—are ill equipped to meet the needs of this epidemic. In this article, we discuss the facilities and equipment design considerations in providing medical care to patients with obesity. Extending beyond the physical plant, we also touch on organizational elements that enable the healthcare provider to safely care for this challenging patient population. The rising prevalence and disease burden of excess adiposity highlight the obligation to recognize that the design needs common to all of our patients must include the particular needs of the patient with obesity.
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Surgical-site Infections
Authors: Javed Ammar A. , Teinor Jonathan , Wright Michael , Ding Ding , Burkhart Richard A. , Hundt John , Cameron John L. , Makary Martin A. , He Jin , Eckhauser Frederic E. , Wolfgang Christopher L. , Weiss Matthew J.
Published: October 2018

Objective:

This study seeks to evaluate the efficacy of negative pressure wound therapy for surgical-site infection (SSI) after open pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Background:

Despite improvement in infection control, SSIs remain a common cause of morbidity after abdominal surgery. SSI has been associated with an increased risk of reoperation, prolonged hospitalization, readmission, and higher costs. Recent retrospective studies have suggested that the use of negative pressure wound therapy can potentially prevent this complication.

Methods:

We conducted a single-center randomized, controlled trial evaluating surgical incision closure during pancreaticoduodenectomy using negative pressure wound therapy in patients at high risk for SSI. We randomly assigned patients to receive negative pressure wound therapy or a standard wound closure. The primary end point of the study was the occurrence of a postoperative SSI. We evaluated the economic impact of the intervention.

Results:

From January 2017 through February 2018, we randomized 123 patients at the time of closure of the surgical incision. SSI occurred in 9.7% (6/62) of patients in the negative pressure wound therapy group and in 31.1% (19/61) of patients in the standard closure group (relative risk = 0.31; 95% confidence interval, 0.13–0.73; P = 0.003). This corresponded to a relative risk reduction of 68.8%. SSIs were found to independently increase the cost of hospitalization by 23.8%.

Conclusions:

The use of negative pressure wound therapy resulted in a significantly lower risk of SSIs. Incorporating this intervention in surgical practice can help reduce a complication that significantly increases patient harm and healthcare costs.
A Worldwide Survey of Live Liver Donor Selection Policies at 24 Centers With a Combined Experience of 19 009 Adult Living Donor Liver Transplants
Authors: Soin Arvinder Singh , Chaudhary Rohan Jagat , Pahari Hirak , Pomfret Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2018

Background

Although surgical technique in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has evolved with a focus on donor safety and recipient challenges, the donor selection criteria remain considerably disparate.

Methods

A questionnaire on donor selection was sent to 41 centers worldwide. 24 centers with a combined experience of 19 009 LDLTs responded.

Results

Centers were categorized into predominantly LDLT (18) or deceased donor liver transplantation (6), and high- (10) or low-volume (14) centers. At most centers, the minimum acceptable graft-to-recipient weight ratio was 0.7 or less (67%), and remnant was 30% (75%). The median upper limit of donor age was 60 years and body mass index of 33 kg/m2. At 63% centers, age influenced the upper limit of body mass index inversely. Majority preferred aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase less than 50 IU/mL. Most accepted donors with nondebilitating mild mental or physical disability and rejected donors with treated coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular accident and nonbrain, nonskin primary malignancies. Opinions were divided about previous psychiatric illness, substance abuse and abdominal surgery. Most performed selective liver biopsy, commonly for steatosis, raised transaminases and 1 or more features of metabolic syndrome. On biopsy, all considered macrovesicular and 50% considered microvesicular steatosis important. Nearly all (92%) rejected donors for early fibrosis, and minority for nonspecific granuloma or mild inflammation. Most anatomical anomalies except portal vein type D/E were acceptable at high-volume centers. There was no standard policy for preoperative or peroperative cholangiogram.

Conclusions

This first large live liver donor survey provides insight into donor selection practices that may aid standardization between centers, with potential expansion of the donor pool without compromising safety.
Clozapine-Associated Aspiration During Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Estime Stephen R. , Berg Sheri M. , Henry Michael E.
Published: October 2018

Clozapine-induced gastric hypomotility (CIGH) is an underreported, underrecognized effect from high-dose clozapine. In this report, we present a patient with treatment refractory schizophrenia receiving high-dose clozapine who aspirated during general anesthesia for electroconvulsive therapy. To our knowledge, this is the first report of aspiration under general anesthesia as a result of CIGH and highlights the potential dangers high-dose clozapine can pose on patients undergoing electroconvulsive therapy with unrecognized CIGH.