bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
araGWAB: Network-based boosting of genome-wide association studies in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Lee Tak , Lee Insuk
Published: February 2018

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been applied for the genetic dissection of complex phenotypes in Arabidopsis thaliana. However, the significantly associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) could not explain all the phenotypic variations. A major reason for missing true phenotype-associated loci is the strict P-value threshold after adjustment for multiple hypothesis tests to reduce false positives. This statistical limitation can be partly overcome by increasing the sample size, but at a much higher cost. Alternatively, weak phenotype-association signals can be boosted by integrating other types of data. Here, we present a web application for network-based Arabidopsisgenome-wide association boosting—araGWAB—which augments the likelihood of association with the given phenotype by integrating GWAS summary statistics (SNP P-values) and co-functional gene network information. The integration utilized the inherent values of SNPs with subthreshold significance, thus substantially increasing the information usage of GWAS data. We found that araGWAB could more effectively retrieve genes known to be associated with various phenotypes relevant to defense against bacterial pathogens, flowering time regulation, and organ development in A. thaliana. We also found that many of the network-boosted candidate genes for the phenotypes were supported by previous publications. The araGWAB is freely available at http://www.inetbio.org/aragwab/.
Structure of prothrombin in the closed form reveals new details on the mechanism of activation
Authors: Chinnaraj Mathivanan , Chen Zhiwei , Pelc Leslie A. , Grese Zachary , Bystranowska Dominika , Di Cera Enrico , Pozzi Nicola
Published: February 2018

The clotting factor prothrombin exists in equilibrium between closed and open conformations, but the physiological role of these forms remains unclear. As for other allosteric proteins, elucidation of the linkage between molecular transitions and function is facilitated by reagents stabilized in each of the alternative conformations. The open form of prothrombin has been characterized structurally, but little is known about the architecture of the closed form that predominates in solution under physiological conditions. Using X-ray crystallography and single-molecule FRET, we characterize a prothrombin construct locked in the closed conformation through an engineered disulfide bond. The construct: (i) provides structural validation of the intramolecular collapse of kringle-1 onto the protease domain reported recently; (ii) documents the critical role of the linker connecting kringle-1 to kringle-2 in stabilizing the closed form; and (iii) reveals novel mechanisms to shift the equilibrium toward the open conformation. Together with functional studies, our findings define the role of closed and open conformations in the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin and establish a molecular framework for prothrombin activation that rationalizes existing phenotypes associated with prothrombin mutations and points to new strategies for therapeutic intervention.
Quantitative analysis of the methane gas emissions from municipal solid waste in India
Authors: Singh Chander Kumar , Kumar Anand , Roy Soumendu Shekhar
Published: February 2018

Increased emissions of greenhouse gases have altered the global ambient temperature and adversely affected global climatic conditions. The municipal solid waste (MSW) generated by households is considered the third largest anthropogenic source of methane (CH4) emissions, constituting 11% of all global CH4 emissions. The current study derived total MSW CH4 emission estimates using the IPCC default method (DM), modified triangular method (MTM) and first order decay method (FOD). The estimated CH4 emission was higher for the DM than the other methods, and was comparable to estimates from other studies. This study observed that the net annual emission of CH4 from landfills in India increased from 404 Gg in 1999–2000 to 990 Gg and 1084 Gg in 2011 and 2015, respectively. We also found that CH4 emissions were highly correlated (R2 = 0.8) with the gross state domestic product (GSDP) of states and the gross domestic product (GDP) of the country, which is an indicator of human well-being. The MSW management policy of India needs to be reviewed in a current policy context, as the management and efficient utilization of MSW technologies might help increase the use of CH4 as an energy source and thereby improve its sustainable and cost-effective management.
A heading date QTL, qHD7.2, from wild rice (Oryza rufipogon) delays flowering and shortens panicle length under long-day conditions
Authors: Jing Li , Rui Xu , Chunchao Wang , Lan Qi , Xiaoming Zheng , Wensheng Wang , Yingbin Ding , Lizhen Zhang , Yanyan Wang , Yunlian Cheng , Lifang Zhang , Weihua Qiao , Qingwen Yang
Published: February 2018

Heading date (HD) and panicle length (PL) are important traits that affect rice breeding and are controlled by pleiotropic genes. Some alleles associated with HD and PL from wild relatives might differ from those in cultivated rice. In this study, a main effect HD quantitative trait locus from wild rice, qHD7.2, was identified using a chromosomal segment substitution line (CSSL) population. First, qHD7.2 was determined to be located near RM172 on chromosome 7 based on association analysis of phenotype data from six environments and 181 polymorphic molecular markers. CSSL39, which has the latest flowering of all CSSLs and carries qHD7.2, was selected for further study, and qHD7.2 was narrowed to a 101.1-kb interval using a CSSL39/9311 F2 population. An OsPRR37-homologous gene was found within this region. The wild type allele delayed flowering and shortened PL under long-day conditions. The HD7.2, which was identified as a candidate gene for qHD7.2, transcript level was substantially higher than that in 9311. Our data showed that HD7.2 is likely a novel OsPRR37 allele. Sequence analysis revealed that OsPRR37 in cultivated rice had multiple origins, and natural variation in the coding domain sequence and promoter region contribute to flowering time diversity in cultivated rice.
A chemoenzymatic process for amide bond formation by an adenylating enzyme-mediated mechanism
Authors: Hara Ryotaro , Hirai Kengo , Suzuki Shin , Kino Kuniki
Published: February 2018

Amide bond formation serves as a fundamental reaction in chemistry, and is practically useful for the synthesis of peptides, food additives, and polymers. However, current methods for amide bond formation essentially generate wastes and suffer from poor atom economy under harsh conditions. To solve these issues, we demonstrated an alternative synthesis method for diverse tryptophyl-N-alkylamides by the combination of the first adenylation domain of tyrocidine synthetase 1 with primary or secondary amines as nucleophiles. Moreover, the physiological role of this domain is l-phenylalanine adenylation; however, we revealed that it displayed broad substrate flexibility from mono-substituted tryptophan analogues to even d-tryptophan. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first evidence for an adenylating enzyme-mediated direct amide bond formation via a sequential enzymatic activation of amino acids followed by nucleophilic substitution by general amines. These findings facilitate the design of a promising tool for biocatalytic straightforward amide bond formation with less side products.
An efficient approach for enhancing the catalytic activity of Ni-MOF-74 via a relay catalyst system for the selective oxidation of benzylic C–H bonds under mild conditions
Authors: Guo Changyan , Zhang Yonghong , Zhang Yi , Wang Jide
Published: February 2018

A facile and efficient approach for enhancing the catalytic activity of Ni-MOF-74 via a relay catalysis strategy with [bmim]Br was developed, which is excellent for the selective oxidation of benzylic C–H bond under mild conditions.
Selective-area lateral epitaxial overgrowth of SiC by controlling the supersaturation in sublimation growth
Authors: Yang Xianglong , Chen Xiufang , Peng Yan , Hu Xiaobo , Xu Xiangang
Published: February 2018

We realized the selective-area lateral epitaxial overgrowth of SiC on a 6H-SiC (0001) seed crystal by controlling the supersaturation in sublimation growth.
Selective production of linear α-olefins via catalytic deoxygenation of fatty acids and derivatives
Authors: Chatterjee Anamitra , Hopen Eliasson Sondre H. , Jensen Vidar R.
Published: February 2018

Various homogeneous, heterogeneous, and enzyme catalysis strategies for the selective synthesis of linear α-olefins from fatty acids and their derivatives are reviewed.
CD44v6 increases gastric cancer malignant phenotype by modulating adipose stromal cell-mediated ECM remodeling
Authors: Lourenço Bianca N. , Springer Nora L. , Ferreira Daniel , Oliveira Carla , Granja Pedro L. , Fischbach Claudia
Published: February 2018

Biomimetic ECM models suggest that CD44v6 expression promotes fibrotic ECM remodeling and gastric cancer aggressiveness through a positive feedback mechanism.
Aerogel materials with periodic structures imprinted with cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Xu Yi-Tao , Dai Yiling , Nguyen Thanh-Dinh , Hamad Wadood Y. , MacLachlan Mark J.
Published: February 2018

Periodic aerogels with a chiral nematic structure were obtained through the solidification of phase-separated cellulose nanocrystal suspensions.
Black phosphorus nanosheets for rapid microRNA detection
Authors: Zhou Jie , Li Zhongjun , Ying Ming , Liu Maixian , Wang Xiaomei , Wang Xianyou , Cao Liwei , Zhang Han , Xu Gaixia
Published: February 2018

Herein, for the first time, a sensitive sensing platform for rapid detection of microRNA was developed by employing black phosphorus nanosheets as the fluorescence quenching material.
Magnetorheological elastomers enabled high-sensitive self-powered tribo-sensor for magnetic field detection
Authors: Qi Song , Guo Hengyu , Chen Jie , Fu Jie , Hu Chenguo , Yu Miao , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: February 2018

The monitoring of the magnetic field is the most significant process for academic or industrial applications.
Combining sonicated cold development and pulsed electrodeposition for high aspect ratio sub-10 nm gap gold dimers for sensing applications in the visible spectrum
Authors: Mueller Aaron D. , Tobing Landobasa Y. M. , Zhang Dao Hua
Published: February 2018

We demonstrate a high resolution electrochemical deposition technique to realize dimers with high aspect ratio nanometric gaps suitable for sensing.
Enhanced electrochemical performance of lithium ion batteries using Sb2S3 nanorods wrapped in graphene nanosheets as anode materials
Authors: Dong Yucheng , Yang Shiliu , Zhang Zhenyu , Lee Jong-Min , Zapien Juan Antonio
Published: February 2018

Antimony sulfide can be used as a promising anode material for lithium ion batteries due to its high theoretical specific capacity derived from sequential conversion and alloying lithium insertion reactions.
Thiol-substituted copolylactide: synthesis, characterization and post-polymerization modification using thiol–ene chemistry
Authors: Kalelkar Pranav P. , Collard David M.
Published: February 2018

A copolylactide that is substituted with pendent thiol groups (thiol-PL) undergoes coupling with a variety of electrophiles under mild conditions via thiol–ene addition.
Synergistic effects of zeolite imidazole framework@graphene oxide composites in humidified mixed matrix membranes on CO2separation
Authors: Huang Dandan , Xin Qingping , Ni Yazhou , Shuai Yingqian , Wang Shaofei , Li Yifan , Ye Hui , Lin Ligang , Ding Xiaoli , Zhang Yuzhong
Published: February 2018

In this study, composite nanosheets (ZIF-8@GO) were preparedviaanin situgrowth method and then incorporated into a polyimide (PI) matrix to fabricate mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for CO2separation.
Privileged substructures for anti-sickling activity via cheminformatic analysis
Authors: Phanus-umporn Chuleeporn , Shoombuatong Watshara , Prachayasittikul Veda , Anuwongcharoen Nuttapat , Nantasenamat Chanin
Published: February 2018

Cheminformatic approaches (classification structure–activity relationship models based on 12 fingerprint classes) were employed for deducing privileged substructures giving rise to the anti-sickling activity of an investigated set of 115 compounds.
Separation of bovine hemoglobin using novel magnetic molecular imprinted nanoparticles
Authors: Su Yujie , Qiu Bixia , Chang Cuihua , Li Xin , Zhang Mengqi , Zhou Bei , Yang Yanjun
Published: February 2018

Magnetic molecular imprinted nanoparticles (MMIPs), combining the progressiveness of magnetic nanoparticles and surface molecular imprinting technology, have shown the high efficiency and specificity in isolation and enrichment of the target protein.
Petroleomics via Orbitrap mass spectrometry with resolving power above 1 000 000 at m/z 200
Authors: Schmidt Eduardo M. , Pudenzi Marcos A. , Santos Jandyson M. , Angolini Celio F. F. , Pereira Rosana C. L. , Rocha Ygor S. , Denisov Eduard , Damoc Eugen , Makarov Alexander , Eberlin Marcos N.
Published: February 2018

The performance of the high-field MegaOrbitrap Fourier transform mass spectrometer (FT-MS) with electrospray ionization (ESI) was evaluated to perform petroleum sample characterization via classical petroleomics approaches.
Redox effects and formation of gold nanoparticles for the nucleation of low thermal expansion phases from BaO/SrO/ZnO/SiO2 glasses
Authors: Kracker Michael , Thieme Christian , Thieme Katrin , Patzig Christian , Berthold Lutz , Höche Thomas , Rüssel Christian
Published: February 2018

Glasses in the system BaO/SrO/ZnO/SiO2 containing 0.01 and 0.1 mol% gold were used to study the formation of gold nanoparticles with the aim to use them as nucleation agents.
Photoluminescent F-doped carbon dots prepared by ring-opening reaction for gene delivery and cell imaging
Authors: Luo Tian-Ying , He Xi , Zhang Ji , Chen Ping , Liu Yan-Hong , Wang Hai-Jiao , Yu Xiao-Qi
Published: February 2018

Carbon dots (CDs) are photoluminescent nanoparticles with distinctive properties, having great potential in nano-biomaterial systems such as gene/drug delivery vectors and cell imaging agents.
3-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid, a major microbial metabolite of procyanidin A2, shows similar suppression of macrophage foam cell formation as its parent molecule
Authors: Zhang Yu-Ying , Li Xiao-Le , Li Tong-Yun , Li Mei-Ying , Huang Ri-Ming , Li Wu , Yang Rui-Li
Published: February 2018

PCA2 and its major microbial metabolite HPPA inhibited macrophage foam cell formation, which may be due to regulating ABCA1, SR-B1 and CD36 expression, and restricted cellular oxidative stress and inflammation via NF-κB pathway.
Supramolecular cooperative interaction-induced assembly of phosphotungstate polyanions and sulfur-containing pyridine-based cations
Authors: Tian Xuerui , Xin Xing , Gao Yuanzhe , Han Zhangang
Published: February 2018

Three crystals were assembled by means of multiple weak intermolecular cooperative supramolecular interactions of hydrogen bonding, S⋯O, C–H⋯π, and polyanion–π.
Scandium-catalyzed copolymerization of myrcene with ethylene and propylene: convenient syntheses of versatile functionalized polyolefins
Authors: Ren Xiaorui , Guo Fang , Fu Hongran , Song Yunyun , Li Yang , Hou Zhaomin
Published: February 2018

A novel family of myrcene-based polyolefins and functionalized polyolefins was prepared by the copolymerization of myrcene with ethylene and propylene catalyzed by half-sandwich scandium complexes.
Boron “stitching” reaction: a powerful tool for the synthesis of polyethylene-based star architectures
Authors: Zapsas George , Ntetsikas Konstantinos , Kim Joey , Bilalis Panayiotis , Gnanou Yves , Hadjichristidis Nikos
Published: February 2018

Taking advantage of the “stitching” reaction, which transforms the “unstable” boron junction to “stable” carbon, we were able to synthesize novel star block copolymers. This strategy is general and opens new horizons towards unprecedented PE-based materials.
Electrochemical oxidizing digestion using PbO2electrode for total phosphorus determination in a water sample
Authors: Qi Tong , Su Ziqi , Jin Yan , Ge Yuqing , Guo Hui , Zhao Hui , Xu Jiaqiang , Jin Qinghui , Zhao Jianlong
Published: February 2018

Using electrochemical oxidation for digestion when testing total phosphorus with a digestion ratio of about 90%.
A platinum oxide decorated amorphous cobalt oxide hydroxide nanosheet array towards alkaline hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Ziqiang , Ren Xiang , Shi Xifeng , Asiri Abdullah M. , Wang Liang , Li Xiaonian , Sun Xuping , Zhang Qiuju , Wang Hongjing
Published: February 2018

A platinum oxide decorated amorphous cobalt oxide hydroxide nanosheet array has been prepared and used for alkaline hydrogen evolution.
Nanophotonic design of perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells
Authors: Hossain Mohammad I. , Qarony Wayesh , Jovanov Vladislav , Tsang Yuen H. , Knipp Dietmar
Published: February 2018

The perovskite material system allows for the realization of perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells with high energy conversion efficiencies at low cost.
Performance Feedback to Increase Use of Counseling Skills
Authors: Muñoz Karen , Ong Clarissa , Butcher Grayson , Nelson Lauri , Twohig Michael , Finai Jalin
Published: February 2018

Counseling is a critical component of audiological care and when implemented purposefully can yield multiple benefits for patients. Professional guidelines indicate that counseling is within the scope of practice for audiologists, yet research has shown that audiologists feel unprepared and are not comfortable providing adjustment counseling. This may be due to inadequate counseling training in audiology graduate programs. To identify ways to address this counseling training gap, this study examined the use of performance feedback to increase counseling skills among audiology graduate students. In this study, participants (n = 5) were recorded during clinical session encounters, and recordings were coded for time spent counseling. A licensed clinical psychologist reviewed the recordings and provided individual performance feedback to participants over the course of the study. Time spent counseling increased by the end of the study, although improvement varied across participants. Results suggest that performance feedback can be used as a method to increase counseling skills in audiology students. However, factors, such as participant motivation, feedback timing, and prerequisite counseling skills, may influence response to feedback. More research is needed on ways to maximize gains from feedback, as well as other methods to improve counseling skills in audiology students.
Teaching Counseling Microskills to Audiology Students: Recommendations from Professional Counseling Educators
Authors: Kulzer Jamie , Beck Kelly
Published: February 2018

To provide the highest quality services, audiologists incorporate counseling into their professional practice. This article, written by professional counselors, highlights the distinction between services provided by professional counselors (i.e., psychotherapy) and counseling microskills used by all health and rehabilitation professionals. Effective application of counseling microskills facilitates a strong therapeutic alliance, which research shows contributes to positive therapeutic outcomes. Counseling microskills should be taught early in graduate programs, because they serve as the foundation for the therapeutic alliance and allow for more effective application of other therapeutic interventions. The four most critical counseling microskills for audiologists are active listening, nonverbal communication, silence, and empathy. These skills should be taught using experiential learning activities (i.e., classroom role-play and use of simulated patients) that incorporate practice, repetition, and feedback. Students should be evaluated on their ability to perform counseling microskills using a detailed grading rubric. Instructors should deliver feedback on these skills with care to reduce potential negative reactions. Ultimately, effectively teaching counseling microskills in graduate programs can improve students' ability to facilitate the therapeutic alliance and facilitate better health outcomes for patients.
Clinical Information Systems Integration in New York City's First Mobile Stroke Unit
Authors: Kummer Benjamin , Lerario Michael , Navi Babak , Ganzman Adam , Ribaudo Daniel , Mir Saad , Pishanidar Sammy , Lekic Tim , Williams Olajide , Kamel Hooman , Marshall Randolph , Hripcsak George , Elkind Mitchell , Fink Matthew
Published: February 2018

Background Mobile stroke units (MSUs) reduce time to thrombolytic therapy in acute ischemic stroke. These units are widely used, but the clinical information systems underlying MSU operations are understudied.

Objective The first MSU on the East Coast of the United States was established at New York Presbyterian Hospital (NYP) in October 2016. We describe our program's 7-month pilot, focusing on the integration of our hospital's clinical information systems into our MSU to support patient care and research efforts.

Methods NYP's MSU was staffed by two paramedics, one radiology technologist, and a vascular neurologist. The unit was equipped with four laptop computers and networking infrastructure enabling all staff to access the hospital intranet and clinical applications during operating hours. A telephone-based registration procedure registered patients from the field into our admit/discharge/transfer system, which interfaced with the institutional electronic health record (EHR). We developed and implemented a computerized physician order entry set in our EHR with prefilled values to permit quick ordering of medications, imaging, and laboratory testing. We also developed and implemented a structured clinician note to facilitate care documentation and clinical data extraction.

Results Our MSU began operating on October 3, 2016. As of April 27, 2017, the MSU transported 49 patients, of whom 16 received tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA). Zero technical problems impacting patient care were reported around registration, order entry, or intranet access. Two onboard network failures occurred, resulting in computed tomography scanner malfunctions, although no patients became ineligible for time-sensitive treatment as a result. Thirteen (26.5%) clinical notes contained at least one incomplete time field.

Conclusion The main technical challenges encountered during the integration of our hospital's clinical information systems into our MSU were onboard network failures and incomplete clinical documentation. Future studies are necessary to determine whether such integrative efforts improve MSU care quality, and which enhancements to information systems will optimize clinical care and research efforts.
Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to a Suprasellar Craniopharyngioma
Authors: Todeschini Alexandre , Montaser Alaa , Shahein Mostafa , Revuelta Juan , Otto Bradley , Carrau Ricardo , Prevedello Daniel
Published: February 2018

We present the case of a 57-year-old male who presented with progressive right side vision loss whose workup revealed a large suprasellar lesion with invasion of the third ventricle. The pituitary stalk was not visible.

Hormonal panel showed no hormonal deficits. The initial diagnosis was of a type II transinfundibular craniopharyngioma (as classified by Kassam et al).

An endoscopic endonasal transplanum transtuberculum approach was done using a standard binostril four-hand technique, with the patient positioned supine with the head turned to the right side and tilted to the left, fixed in a three-pin head clamp, under imaging guidance. The tumor was carefully dissected away from the optic apparatus while preserving the vessels, mainly the superior hypophyseal artery. The stalk was identified around the tumor and preserved. The third ventricle was entered and inspected at the end of the procedure and a near-total resection (a small residual in the right hypothalamus) with decompression of the optic apparatus was achieved. Reconstruction was done in a multilayered fashion, using collagen matrix and a nasoseptal flap. Patient had an uneventful postoperative stay and was discharged on POD 4, neurologically stable with no hormonal deficits. Pathology confirmed an adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma. Due to a small growth of the residual, patient underwent fractionated stereotactic radiation (50.4Gy in 28 sessions). He presented with panhypopituitarism 2 years after radiation therapy. At 3-month follow-up, his vision was back to normal and 6-year postoperative magnetic resonance imaging showed no signs of recurrence.

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/chG7XIz7a_A.
Macrophage Density Predicts Facial Nerve Outcome and Tumor Growth after Subtotal Resection of Vestibular Schwannoma
Authors: Graffeo Christopher , Perry Avital , Raghunathan Aditya , Kroneman Trynda , Jentoft Mark , Driscoll Colin , Neff Brian , Carlson Matthew , Jacob Jeffrey , Link Michael , Van Gompel Jamie
Published: February 2018

Introduction Vestibular schwannoma (VS) behavior following subtotal resection (STR) is highly variable. Overall progression rates have been reported as high as 44%, and optimal treatment is controversial. Correspondingly, identification of a reliable clinical or pathologic marker associated with progression after STR would help guide decision-making.

Methods A prospectively maintained institutional VS registry from 1999 to 2014 was retrospectively reviewed for sporadic VS patients who underwent primary STR without preceding stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) by a single neurosurgery-neurotology team. Primary endpoints included tumor progression and postoperative facial nerve function. Pathologic specimens were stained for Ki67, CD68, S100, and SOX10 and were quantitated by digital imaging analysis. Macrophage density was defined as the ratio of CD68+ macrophages to S100+ macrophages and Schwannian tumor cells. Clinical outcomes were correlated with pathologic markers.

Results Forty-six patients met the study inclusion criteria. Thirteen (28%) progressed during a mean 57 months of follow-up (range 15–149). Favorable postoperative facial nerve function (House–Brackmann I–II) was achieved in 37 (80%). CD68+ cells were present at significantly higher concentrations in tumors that progressed (p = 0.03). Higher macrophage density was significantly associated with both tumor progression (p = 0.02) and unfavorable facial nerve function (p = 0.02). Ki67 percent positivity was not significantly associated with either primary endpoint (p = 0.83; p = 0.58).

Conclusions Macrophage density may provide an important marker for individuals at the highest risk for progression of VS after STR, potentially prompting closer surveillance or consideration for upfront SRS following STR. This finding supports preceding conclusions that an intratumoral macrophage-predominant inflammatory response may be a marker for tumor growth and a potential therapeutic target.
Complications and outcomes of routine endoscopy in the very elderly
Authors: Miyanaga Ryoichi , Hosoe Naoki , Naganuma Makoto , Hirata Kenro , Fukuhara Seiichiro , Nakazato Yoshihiro , Ojiro Keisuke , Iwasaki Eisuke , Yahagi Naohisa , Ogata Haruhiko , Kanai Takanori
Published: February 2018

Background and study aims In Japan, the elderly population has been increasing annually. The number of elderly patients for whom esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy (CS) is indicated also has been rising. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of routine endoscopy in a cohort of octogenarians aged 85 years and older – defined by the World Health Organization as the very elderly.

Patients and methods A total of 5,586 patients underwent EGDs, and 2,484 patients underwent CSs performed at the Keio University Hospital from January to September 2014. One hundred eighty-five EGDs and 70 of the CS were performed in the very elderly. Six hundred nine EGDs and 262 CS were performed on younger patients (aged forties). Statistical analysis was performed by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results On univariate analysis, the rate of adverse events (AEs) in the very elderly was significantly higher compared to the younger group (6.3 % vs. 1.1 %; P < 0.01). Moreover, the very elderly cohort received substantial therapeutic intervention as compared to the younger (16.9 % vs. 6.9 %; P < 0.01). On multivariate analysis, independent risk factors of AEs included: very elderly patients (odds ratio (OR) 3.30, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.05 – 10.35), inpatients (OR 3.22, 95 % CI 1.34 – 7.74), and use of pethidine hydrochloride prescription (OR 3.44, 95 % CI 1.51 – 7.81).

Conclusions Routine endoscopy in the very elderly incurs a significant risk of AEs, particularly when combined with pethidine hydrochloride prescription.
The Impact of Mild Heat Stress During Prolonged Running On Gastrointestinal Integrity, Gastrointestinal Symptoms, Systemic Endotoxin and Cytokine Profiles
Authors: Snipe Rhiannon , Khoo Anthony , Kitic Cecilia , Gibson Peter , Costa Ricardo
Published: February 2018

The study aimed to determine the effects of mild exertional heat stress on intestinal injury, permeability, gastrointestinal symptoms, and systemic endotoxin and cytokine responses. Ten endurance runners completed 2 h of running at 60% V̇O2max in warm (WARM: 30°C) and temperate (TEMP: 22°C) ambient conditions. Rectal temperature (Tre) and gastrointestinal symptoms were recorded every 10 min during exercise. Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise, and during recovery to determine plasma intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP) and cortisol concentrations, and systemic endotoxin and inflammatory cytokine profiles. Urinary lactulose:L-rhamnose ratio (L/R) was used to measure small intestine permeability. Compared with TEMP, WARM significantly increased Tre from 50 min onwards (38.1±0.3°C vs. 38.4±0.5°C, respectively; p<0.01), gastrointestinal symptoms (p=0.017), post-exercise plasma cortisol (26% vs. 59%, respectively; p<0.001) and I-FABP (127% vs. 184%, respectively; p<0.001) concentrations. Circulatory anti-endotoxin antibodies increased post-exercise (p<0.001) on WARM (20%) and TEMP (28%). No differences were observed for plasma endotoxin concentration (6% vs. 5% increase, respectively) or small intestine permeability (L/R 0.026±0.010 and 0.025±0.015, respectively). Both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines increased post-exercise, with inflammatory response cytokines TNF-α (p=0.015) and IL-8 (p=0.044), and compensatory anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 (p=0.065), and IL-1ra higher on WARM than TEMP. Findings suggest that exposure to warm ambient conditions during prolonged submaximal running induces transient intestinal epithelial injury, increases gastrointestinal symptoms, and promotes greater perturbations to the systemic cytokine profile compared to running in temperate conditions.
Externally Acquired Radiological Data for the Clinical Routine – A Review of the Reimbursement Situation in Germany
Authors: Schreyer Andreas , Steinhäuser René , Rosenberg Britta
Published: February 2018

Background Interdisciplinary radiological conferences and boards can improve therapeutic pathways. Because of the reinterpretation and presentation of external image data, which already was read, an additional workload is created which is currently not considered by health care providers. In this review we discuss the ongoing basics and possibilities in health economy for a radiological second opinion for the outpatient and inpatient sector in Germany.

Method Based on up-to-date literature and jurisdiction, we discuss the most important questions for the reimbursement for second opinions and conference presentations of external image data in an FAQ format. Additionally, we focus on the recently introduced E-Health law accordingly.

Results Radiological services considering second opinion or board presentation of externally acquired image data are currently not adequately covered by health care providers. In particular, there is no reimbursement possibility for the inpatient sector. Only patients with private insurance or privately paid second opinions can be charged when these patients visit the radiologist directly.

Conclusion Currently there is no adequate reimbursement possibility for a radiological second opinion or image demonstrations in clinical conferences. It will be essential to integrate adequate reimbursement by health care providers in the near future because of the importance of radiology as an essential diagnostic and therapeutic medical partner.

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Neither friend nor big brother: China’s role in North Korean foreign policy strategy
Authors: Zhang Weiqi
Published: February 2018

North Korea has defied the international community on its nuclear program despite diplomatic and economic pressure. Why has the country been willing and able to defy and resist the international community? What should we do about it? Many stress China’s ties with North Korea and believe that the question of whether China is willing to use its leverage on North Korea is the key to the solution to the Korean nuclear issue. This paper draws from international relations theories and the history of China–North Korea relations to analyze North Korean foreign policy strategy. Two arguments are made, namely: first, that North Korea does not view its relationship with China as highly as many would think; and, second, that China’s role in North Korea’s strategic planning is not significant enough to change its behavior. Therefore, it is argued, asking China to use its leverage on North Korea would not solve the Korean nuclear crisis. On the contrary, the more China puts pressure on North Korea, the more likely the latter would resist. A possible way ahead in dealing with the Korean nuclear issue is proposed.
Differentiation of nonferrous metal particles in lubrication oil using an electrical conductivity measurement-based inductive sensor
Authors: Wu Yu , Zhang Hongpeng , Wang Man , Chen Haiquan
Published: February 2018

A method that measures the electrical conductivity of metal based on monitoring the inductance changes of coils via an inductive sensor is introduced in this work to differentiate metal particles in lubrication oil. Theoretical analysis coupled with experimentation is employed to differentiate varieties of nonferrous metal particles, including copper and aluminum particles, ranging from 860 μm to 880 μm in diameter. The results show that the inductive sensor is capable of the identification and differentiation of nonferrous metal particles in lubrication oil based on the electrical conductivity measurement. The concept demonstrated in this paper can be extended to inductive sensors in metal particle detection and other scientific and industrial applications.
Nonequilibrium electrophoresis of an ion-selective microgranule for weak and moderate external electric fields
Authors: Frants E. A. , Ganchenko G. S. , Shelistov V. S. , Amiroudine S. , Demekhin E. A.
Published: February 2018

Electrokinetics and the movement of charge-selective micro-granules in an electrolyte solution under the influence of an external electric field are investigated theoretically. Straightforward perturbation analysis is applied to a thin electric double layer and a weak external field, while a numerical solution is used for moderate electric fields. The asymptotic solution enables the determination of the salt concentration, electric charge distribution, and electro-osmotic velocity fields. It may also be used to obtain a simple analytical formula for the electrophoretic velocity in the case of quasi-equilibrium electrophoresis (electrophoresis of the first kind). This formula differs from the famous Helmholtz-Smoluchowski relation, which applies to dielectric microparticles, but not to ion-selective granules. Numerical calculations are used to validate the derived formula for weak external electric fields, but for moderate fields, nonlinear effects lead to a significant increase in electrophoretic mobility and to a transition from quasi-equilibrium electrophoresis of the first kind to nonequilibrium electrophoresis of the second kind. Theoretical results are successfully compared with experimental data.
Inactivation of myeloma cancer cells by helium and argon plasma jets: The effect comparison and the key reactive species
Authors: Chen Zeyu , Cui Qingjie , Chen Chen , Xu Dehui , Liu Dingxin , Chen H. L. , Kong Michael G.
Published: February 2018

In plasma cancer therapy, the inactivation of cancer cells under plasma treatment is closely related to the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) induced by plasmas. Quantitative study on the plasma-induced RONS that related to cancer cells apoptosis is critical for advancing the research of plasma cancer therapy. In this paper, the effects of several reactive species on the inactivation of LP-1 myeloma cancer cells are comparatively studied with variable working gas composition, surrounding gas composition, and discharge power. The results show that helium plasma jet has a higher cell inactivation efficiency than argon plasma jet under the same discharge power. By comparing the concentration of aqueous phase reactive species and the cell inactivation efficiency under different working gases and discharge powers, it is demonstrated that the inactivation efficiency of LP-1 myeloma cancer cells is strongly correlated with the concentration of peroxynitrite (ONOOH/ONOO−).
Contrasting two different interpretations of the dynamics in binary glass forming mixtures
Authors: Valenti S. , Capaccioli S. , Ngai K. L.
Published: February 2018

In a series of papers on binary glass-forming mixtures of tripropyl phosphate (TPP) with polystyrene (PS), Kahlau et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 140, 044509 (2014)] and Bock et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 139, 064508 (2013); J. Chem. Phys. 140, 094505 (2014); and J. Non-Cryst. Solids 407, 88–97 (2015)] presented the data on the dynamics of the two components studied over the entire composition range by several experimental methods. From these sets of data, obtained by multiple experimental techniques on mixtures with a large difference ΔTg ≈ 200 K between the glass transition temperatures of two starting glass formers, they obtained two α-relaxations, α1 and α2. The temperature dependence of the slower α1 is Vogel-Fulcher like, but the faster α2 is Arrhenius. We have re-examined their data and show that their α2-relaxation is the Johari-Goldstein (JG) β-relaxation with Arrhenius T-dependence admixed with a true α2-relaxation having a stronger temperature dependence. In support of our interpretation of their data, we made dielectric measurements at elevated pressures P to show that the ratio of the α1 and α2 relaxation times, τα1(T,P)/τα2(T,P), is invariant to variations of T and P, while τα1(T,P) is kept constant. This property proves unequivocally that the α2-relaxation is the JG β-relaxation, the precursor of the α1-relaxation. Subsequently, the true but unresolved α2-relaxation is recovered, and its relaxation times with much stronger temperature dependence are deduced, as expected for the α-relaxation of the TPP component. The results are fully compatible with those found in another binary mixture of methyltetrahydrofuran with tristyrene and PS with ΔTg ≈ 283 K, even larger than ΔTg ≈ 200 K of the mixture of TPP with PS, and in several polymer blends. The contrast between the two very different interpretations brought out in this paper is deemed beneficial for further progress in this research area.
Scanning microwave microscopy applied to semiconducting GaAs structures
Authors: Buchter Arne , Hoffmann Johannes , Delvallée Alexandra , Brinciotti Enrico , Hapiuk Dimitri , Licitra Christophe , Louarn Kevin , Arnoult Alexandre , Almuneau Guilhem , Piquemal François , Zeier Markus , Kienberger Ferry
Published: February 2018

A calibration algorithm based on one-port vector network analyzer (VNA) calibration for scanning microwave microscopes (SMMs) is presented and used to extract quantitative carrier densities from a semiconducting n-doped GaAs multilayer sample. This robust and versatile algorithm is instrument and frequency independent, as we demonstrate by analyzing experimental data from two different, cantilever- and tuning fork-based, microscope setups operating in a wide frequency range up to 27.5 GHz. To benchmark the SMM results, comparison with secondary ion mass spectrometry is undertaken. Furthermore, we show SMM data on a GaAs p-n junction distinguishing p- and n-doped layers.
Shot-by-shot spectrum model for rod-pinch, pulsed radiography machines
Authors: Wood Wm M.
Published: February 2018

A simplified model of bremsstrahlung production is developed for determining the x-ray spectrum output of a rod-pinch radiography machine, on a shot-by-shot basis, using the measured voltage, V(t), and current, I(t). The motivation for this model is the need for an agile means of providing shot-by-shot spectrum prediction, from a laptop or desktop computer, for quantitative radiographic analysis. Simplifying assumptions are discussed, and the model is applied to the Cygnus rod-pinch machine. Output is compared to wedge transmission data for a series of radiographs from shots with identical target objects. Resulting model enables variation of parameters in real time, thus allowing for rapid optimization of the model across many shots. “Goodness of fit” is compared with output from LSP Particle-In-Cell code, as well as the Monte Carlo Neutron Propagation with Xrays (“MCNPX”) model codes, and is shown to provide an excellent predictive representation of the spectral output of the Cygnus machine. Improvements to the model, specifically for application to other geometries, are discussed.
Convolutions for Berezin quantization and Berezin-Lieb inequalities
Authors: Luef Franz , Skrettingland Eirik
Published: February 2018

Concepts and results from quantum harmonic analysis, such as the convolution between functions and operators or between two operators, are identified as the appropriate setting for Berezin quantization and Berezin-Lieb inequalities. Based on this insight, we provide a rigorous approach to the generalized phase-space representation introduced by Klauder-Skagerstam and their variants of Berezin-Lieb inequalities in this setting. Hence our presentation of the results of Klauder-Skagerstam gives a more conceptual framework, which yields as a byproduct an interesting perspective on the connection between the Berezin quantization and Weyl quantization.
Agroforestry for ruminants: a review of trees and shrubs as fodder in silvopastoral temperate and tropical production systems
Authors: Vandermeulen Sophie , Ramírez-Restrepo Carlos Alberto , Beckers Yves , Claessens Hugues , Bindelle Jérôme
Published: February 2018

Among the oldest agroforestry systems, silvopastoralism uses shrubs and trees to feed ruminants. The practice is common in extensive livestock production systems, whereas the intensification of grass-based systems in the past century has led to the removal of woody species from agricultural temperate landscapes. In Europe however, woody species are promoted again on grasslands through environment-friendly policies due to the ecosystem services they provide such as carbon sequestration, control of soil erosion, limitation of airborne pollutants and biodiversity conservation. Positive effects of browse on rumen digestion and parasite control have also been documented across different plant species and regions. Under optimal conditions, feeding ruminants from woody fodder sustains animal production. Nonetheless, limitations can restrict the use of woody forage into animal diets, such as the presence of anti-nutritive and toxic compounds. The incorporation of this resource in ruminant feeding systems raises the question of the management of the interface between the plant and the animal. Various management systems are practiced. Temperate species such as Salix spp. and Populus spp. are fed to sheep and cattle in fodder blocks or by pruning trees in New Zealand, and Fraxinus spp. or Corylus avellana in hedgerows supply forage to livestock in Belgium, whereas Leucaena leucocepahala and Desmanthus spp. browsing is common in Australia. Nowadays, ensiling and pelleting techniques are being developed as a way to store browse forage. As the renewed interest in using shrubs and trees to feed ruminants is recent, especially in temperate regions, additional research about the optimal introduction of this resource within systems is needed.
Effects of fibrolytic enzymes and isobutyrate on ruminal fermentation, microbial enzyme activity and cellulolytic bacteria in pre- and post-weaning dairy calves
Authors: Wang C. , Liu Q. , Guo G. , Huo W. J. , Wang Y. X. , Zhang Y. L. , Pei C. X. , Zhang S. L.
Published: February 2018

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of fibrolytic enzymes (FE, containing 160 units of cellulase and 4000 units of xylanase) or isobutyrate (IB) supplementation on ruminal fermentation, microbial enzyme activity and cellulolytic bacteria in dairy calves. Forty-eight Holstein bull calves of 15 days of age and of 44.9 ± 0.28 kg of BW were randomly assigned to four groups in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Two levels of FE (0 g (FE–) or 1.83 g per calf per day (FE+)) and IB (0 g (IB–) or 6 g per calf per day (IB+)) were added. Calves were weaned at 60-day-old and four calves were selected from each treatment at random and slaughtered at 45 and 90 days of age. There was no IB × FE interaction effect. Ruminal pH decreased with IB or FE supplementation for post-weaned calves, whereas concentrations of total volatile fatty acids and acetate increased with IB or FE supplementation for pre- and post-weaned calves. Acetate to propionate ratio increased with IB supplementation, but was unaffected by FE supplementation. Ammonia-N concentration decreased with IB or FE supplementation for pre- and post-weaned calves. For post-weaned calves, activities of CMCase increased with IB or FE supplementation, and activities of cellobiase, xylanase, pectinase, β-amylase and protease increased with IB supplementation. Populations of B. fibrisolvens and F. succinogenes for pre- and post-weaned calves and R. flavefaciens for post-weaned calves increased with IB or FE supplementation. It is suggested that ruminal fermentation and growth performance of calves was improved with IB and FE supplementation, and the combination of IB and FE has the potential to stimulate the growth of pre- and post-weaned dairy calves.