bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contemporary Liquid Brine Exploration on Mars: From Spectral Unmixing to Subpixel Mapping
Authors: Zhong Y. , He D. , Luo B. , Zhang L.
Published: February 2019

Water is a critical symbol for the existence of life in deep space exploration, and thus, the confirmation of the existence of liquid water on the contemporary Martian surface is important for the future studies of the hydrologic cycle and potential life on Mars. The main Mars observation system at a global scale is the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter; however, this system has several drawbacks, that is, it cannot simultaneously resolve the features narrower than a few meters and scrutinize the surface composition both physically and chemically, leading to deficient and unsophisticated aqueous activity detection. Therefore, in this study, a joint endmember extraction, spectral analysis, and subpixel mapping technique, which we refer to as a joint processing pipeline, was applied to accommodate the detailed spatial information with the composition information in the physical and chemical aspects through luxuriant spectra. The validation of the proposed joint processing pipeline is described in the experimental part, with a case study of the megadune in the Russell Crater of Mars. The experimental results not only confirm the superior performance of the proposed pipeline in the accurate mapping and retrieval of Mars surface geology but also provide spectral evidence for the confirmation that hydrated material existed in the Russell Crater.
The Thermal Effects of Plate‐Bending‐Related Thickening of the Oceanic Crustal Aquifer in the Nankai Trough and Japan Trench Subduction Zones
Authors: Lucero A. C. , Spinelli G. A. , He J.
Published: February 2019

For the Nankai Trough and Japan Trench subduction zones, we examine the combined thermal effects of lateral heat exchange by fluid circulation in an oceanic crustal aquifer and the thickening of that aquifer due to plate‐bending‐related faulting. Faults induced by the bending of a plate entering a subduction zone are hypothesized to increase the depth over which vigorous hydrothermal circulation can redistribute heat in the oceanic crust. Previous 1‐D (vertical) thermal models have examined how aquifer thickening can mine heat from deep in the crust seaward of the trench. Here we construct 2‐D thermal models that include aquifer thickening and lateral heat exchange in the aquifer. We vary the maximum aquifer thickness and the landward extent to which hydrothermal circulation persists within the subducted crust. For the Nankai margin, models most consistent with heat flux data require vigorous fluid circulation extending up to 150 km landward of the trench; aquifer thickening is permitted but not required for models to be consistent with the heat flux observations. Conversely, for the Japan Trench, preferred models include substantial aquifer thickening (maximum aquifer thickness of 1.8–5 km); vigorous circulation extending landward of the trench is permitted but is not required. For hot subduction zones, the thermal effects of aquifer thickening are modest relative to the large lateral advective heat redistribution. For cold subduction zones, where small lateral temperature gradients limit the amount of lateral heat redistribution, aquifer thickening can be the dominant process generating thermal anomalies.
Turbulence Within Natural Mangrove Pneumatophore Canopies
Authors: Norris Benjamin K. , Mullarney Julia C. , Bryan Karin R. , Henderson Stephen M.
Published: February 2019

High‐resolution velocity measurements were collected within and above two dense canopies of mangrove pneumatophore roots in a wave‐exposed mangrove forest. In both canopies, root density decreased steadily with height above bed owing to the variability in root heights and the tapered shape of the roots. Within the canopies, we consider turbulence within three zones: near the bed above the wave boundary layer, around the mean canopy height, and above the canopy. The near‐bed turbulence was particularly intense (up to 6.5 × 10−4 W/kg), likely owing to oscillatory wave‐driven currents flowing past dense vegetation. Near the bed and around the mean canopy height, peaks in horizontal velocity power spectra at frequencies corresponding to Strouhal numbers of ~0.2 may indicate Von Kármán wake shedding in the lee of the pneumatophores. Furthermore, a recirculation zone was observed immediately behind a cluster of pneumatophores at intermediate heights. These coherent flow structures were associated with zones of enhanced Reynolds stresses (up to 5.3 × 10−3 m2/s2) and eddy viscosities (up to 1.9 × 10−3 m2/s). Large near‐bed stresses were associated with near‐bed drag coefficients that are up to an order of magnitude larger than those expected in the absence of vegetation. Observed eddy viscosities are consistent with theoretical expectations, derived from scaling arguments using a standard mixing‐length model. These results suggest that pneumatophore roots can contribute greatly to turbulent mixing (e.g., eddy viscosities were on average O(10−4–10−3 m2/s) and therefore may enhance the sediment transport occurring in mangrove forest fringes.
Turbulent Transport in the Gray Zone: A Large Eddy Model Intercomparison Study of the CONSTRAIN Cold Air Outbreak Case
Authors: de Roode Stephan R. , Frederikse Thomas , Siebesma A. Pier , Ackerman Andrew S. , Chylik Jan , Field Paul R. , Fricke Jens , Gryschka Micha , Hill Adrian , Honnert Rachel , Krueger Steve K. , Lac Christine , Lesage Andrew T. , Tomassini Lorenzo
Published: February 2019

To quantify the turbulent transport at gray zone length scales between 1 and 10 km, the Lagrangian evolution of the CONSTRAIN cold air outbreak case was simulated with seven large eddy models. The case is characterized by rather large latent and sensible heat fluxes and a rapid deepening rate of the boundary layer. In some models the entrainment velocity exceeds 4 cm/s. A significant fraction of this growth is attributed to a strong longwave radiative cooling of the inversion layer. The evolution and the timing of the breakup of the stratocumulus cloud deck differ significantly among the models. Sensitivity experiments demonstrate that a decrease in the prescribed cloud droplet number concentration and the inclusion of ice microphysics both act to speed up the thinning of the stratocumulus by enhancing the production of precipitation. In all models the formation of mesoscale fluctuations is clearly evident in the cloud fields and also in the horizontal wind velocity. Resolved vertical fluxes remain important for scales up to 10 km. The simulation results show that the resolved vertical velocity variance gradually diminishes with a coarsening of the horizontal mesh, but the total vertical fluxes of heat, moisture, and momentum are only weakly affected. This is a promising result as it demonstrates the potential use of a mesh size‐dependent turbulent length scale for convective boundary layers at gray zone model resolutions.
Oxygen Isotope Variability of Planktonic Foraminifera Provide Clues to Past Upper Ocean Seasonal Variability
Authors: Metcalfe Brett , Feldmeijer Wouter , Ganssen Gerald M.
Published: February 2019

The major control upon abundance of planktonic foraminifera and their stable oxygen isotope (δ18O) signature is the seasonally linked variation in water hydrography, key to the proliferation or attenuation of ecologically beneficial constraints. The range and variance σ(δ18O) of planktonic foraminifera can reflect changes in either the season or depth of calcification. For a detailed reconstruction of ocean changes we employed multispecies single‐specimen analysis, which allows extraction of the isotopic variability within the species for the time covered by the sample. Previous studies with pooled specimens have shown that the multiannual temperature range may be extracted. Here we investigate how seasonality can be deduced from single‐specimen analysis of planktonic foraminifera combined with multiple other proxies (IRD percent, faunal abundance) from Termination III. Our single‐shell isotope results show that the variance in Globigerina bulloides oxygen isotope values corresponds to the insolation at the core site. Furthermore, faunal and isotopic analyses of the polar‐subpolar neogloboquadrinid species, N. pachyderma (NPS) and N. incompta, reveal an intriguing result. These species are sister taxa, representing genetically distinct species, whose relative abundance reflects warm and cold conditions. While the difference between their isotopic means should reflect the temperature difference between their distinct growing seasons, we show that this difference also has a statistically significant relationship with the spread in individual NPS δ18O. At an appropriate core site, this approach could be used to further constrain the length of the growing season and therefore the inherent variability recorded within proxy records.
Encouraging African Research for the Next Generation
Authors: Holm Rochelle
Published: February 2019

A Celebrate 100 Grant winner is organizing a series of Girls Science Day camps.
The Deep Blue Sea Is Getting Bluer
Authors: Duncombe Jenessa
Published: February 2019

Ocean color will intensify in the next century due to global warming altering phytoplankton communities.
Study on a co-doped CdZnTe crystal containing Yb and In
Authors: Wang Tao , Ai Xin , Yin Ziang , Zhao Qinghua , Zhou Boru , Yang Fan , Xu Lingyan , Zha Gangqiang , Jie Wanqi
Published: February 2019

The electron mobility of CZT:(ln,Yb) was increased by about 26% over that of the CZT:In crystal.
An experimental study of indene pyrolysis with synchrotron vacuum ultraviolet photoionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Jin Hanfeng , Yang Jiuzhong , Xing Lili , Hao Junyu , Zhang Yan , Cao Chuangchuang , Pan Yang , Farooq Aamir
Published: February 2019

Formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons driven by indenyl reactions is experimentally measured by synchrotron vacuum ultraviolet photoionization mass spectrometry.
Fluctuation correlations as major determinants of structure- and dynamics-driven allosteric effects
Authors: Yu Miao , Chen Yixin , Wang Zi-Le , Liu Zhirong
Published: February 2019

Both structure- and dynamics-driven allosteric effects are determined by the correlation of distance fluctuations in proteins.
Europium and ytterbium complexes with o-iminoquinonato ligands: synthesis, structure, and magnetic behavior
Authors: Klementyeva Svetlana V. , Lukoyanov Anton N. , Afonin Mikhail Yu. , Mörtel Max , Smolentsev Anton I. , Abramov Pavel A. , Starikova Alyona A. , Khusniyarov Marat M. , Konchenko Sergey N.
Published: February 2019

Oxidation of Ln(ii) o-amidophenolates with o-iminoquinone leads to ligand mixed-valent o-iminosemiquinonato-o-amidophenolato complexes of Ln(iii).
Aerobic oxidative desulfurization coupling of Co polyanion catalysts and p-TsOH-based deep eutectic solvents through a biomimetic approach
Authors: Sun Lulu , Su Ting , Xu Jiajia , Hao Dongmei , Liao Weiping , Zhao Yuchao , Ren Wanzhong , Deng Changliang , Lü Hongying
Published: February 2019

The use of coupled catalytic systems with ETMs facilitates the reaction process by transporting electrons from catalysts to the oxidant along a low-energy pathway and, finally, DBT was prone to oxidize to DBTO2.
Conversion of magadiite to pure-silica-Nu-1 and an insight into the changes in its medium-range structure during crystallization
Authors: Lv Tianming , Wang Yu , Zhang Shoulei , Feng Zhe , Zheng Jiqi , Yang Jing , Liu Xin , Liu Xiaoyu , Meng Changgong
Published: February 2019

Highly crystalline pure-silica-Nu-1 was obtained by magadiite conversion and the changes in its medium-range structure during crystallization were investigated.
Ferromagnetic Co20Ni80 nanoparticles encapsulated inside reduced graphene oxide layers with superior microwave absorption performance
Authors: Yu Xuefeng , Wang Lei , Liu Jiwei , Xue Shuyan , Yang Liting , Li Xiao , Zhang Jie , Xing Linshen , Chen Guanyu , Wang Min , Che Renchao
Published: February 2019

The size regulation of rGO/Co20Ni80 nanocomposites improves microwave loss properties in terms of the reflection loss value and absorption bandwidth.
Monopyridyl-linked unsymmetrical anthracenyl π-conjugate as a platform for acid-pen and base-eraser
Authors: Khalid Baig Moghal Zubair , Prusti Banchhanidhi , Chakravarty Manab
Published: February 2019

A simple monopyridyl-linked fluorogen is developed as a platform for acid-pen and base-eraser system.
Magnetic solid-phase extraction based on g-C3N4/Fe3O4/MoS2 as a magnetic adsorbent for HPLC-UV determination of fluoroquinolones in chicken and eggs
Authors: Zhao Bingxin , Wu Hao , Liu Yanli , Tian Xinxin , Huo Yaoxing , Guan Shuping
Published: February 2019

Synthesized a ternary nanocomposite g-C3N4/Fe3O4/MoS2, was used as an adsorbent in magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) for separation and concentration of trace fluoroquinolones (FQs) in chicken and eggs.
A molecular noble metal-free system for efficient visible light-driven reduction of CO2 to CO
Authors: Chen Lingjing , Qin Yanfei , Chen Gui , Li Mingya , Cai Lirong , Qiu Yongfu , Fan Hongbo , Robert Marc , Lau Tai-Chu
Published: February 2019

A new iron complex bearing a pentadentate quinoline–pyridine ligand exhibits excellent photocatalytic activity towards CO2-to-CO conversion using the commercially available organic dye purpurin as the photosensitizer and BIH as the electron donor.
Chemoselective asymmetric dearomative [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of purines with aminocyclopropanes
Authors: Hao Er-Jun , Fu Dan-Dan , Wang Dong-Chao , Zhang Tao , Qu Gui-Rong , Li Gong-Xin , Lan Yu , Guo Hai-Ming
Published: February 2019

Chemoselective asymmetric [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of purines with aminocyclopropanes for the dearomatization of purines have been successfully developed.
Sequential growth of hierarchical N-doped carbon-MoS2 nanocomposites with variable nanostructures
Authors: Liu Qinglong , Shi Haodong , Yang Tianyu , Yang Yan , Wu Zhong-Shuai , Yu Jianqiang , Silva S. Ravi P. , Liu Jian
Published: February 2019

N-doped carbon-MoS2 (NC-MoS2) nanocomposites, including dual–shell, yolk–shell, core–shell, hollow and nanorods, were obtained using a sequential cooperative self-assembly approach. The hollow NC-MoS2 nanocomposites showed enhanced Li-ion storage performance compared to the dual–shell and yolk–shell nanostructures.
A new study towards PSR J1826–1334 and PSR J1826–1256 in the region of HESS J1825–137 and HESS J1826–130
Authors: Duvidovich L. , Giacani E. , Castelletti G. , Petriella A. , Supán L.
Published: February 2019

Aims. The goal of this paper is to detect synchrotron emission from the relic electrons of the crushed pulsar wind nebula (PWN) HESS J1825−137 and to investigate the origin of the γ-ray emission from HESS J1826−130.

Methods. The study of HESS J1825−137 was carried out on the basis of new radio observations centred at the position of PSR J1826−1334 performed with the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array at 1.4 GHz in configurations B and C. To investigate the nature of HESS J1826−130, we reprocessed unpublished archival data obtained with XMM-Newton.

Results. The new radio continuum image towards PSR J1826−1334 reveals a bright radio source, with the pulsar located in its centre, which suggests that this feature could be the radio counterpart of the compact component of the PWN detected at high energy. The new 1.4 GHz radio data do not reveal emission with an extension comparable with that observed in γ-rays for the HESS J1825−137 source. On the other hand, the XMM-Newton study of the region including PSR J1826−1256 reveals an elongated non-thermal X-ray emitting nebula with the pulsar located in the northern border and a tail towards the peak of the very high energy source. The spectrum is characterized by a power law with a photon index going from 1.6 around the pulsar to 2.7 in the borders of the nebula, a behaviour consistent with synchrotron cooling of electrons. From our X-ray analysis we propose that HESS J1826−130 is likely produced by the PWN powered by PSR J1826−1256 via the inverse Compton mechanism.
No histology for diminutive duodenal neuroendocrine tumors: Is it safe?
Authors: Walter Thomas
Published: February 2019

For the management of diminutive duodenal neuroendocrine tumors (d-NETs), Harshit et al. have proposed – in the work accompanying this editorial – an interesting approach, the endoscopic banding without resection (BWR) technique. Given the risks associated with classic endoscopic resections and surgical procedures, and the likely favorable natural history of diminutive d-NETs, BWR may be an option for these selected patients with a very low risk of LN + and recurrence. However, a close follow-up (endoscopic, EUS and thoraco-abdominal CT scan) is then required to guarantee the safety of this policy.
Endoscopic banding without resection (BWR) technique for treatment of diminutive neuroendocrine tumors in the duodenum
Authors: Khara Harshit , Shovlin Gerald , Johal Amitpal , Diehl David
Published: February 2019

Endoscopic treatment of diminutive (less than 10 mm) duodenal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) is recommended because of the risk of metastatic potential. Endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection are alternatives to surgical management but have significant adverse event rates. We evaluated the effectiveness, feasibility, and safety of the ‘banding without resection’ (BWR) technique and assessed outcomes for the treatment of diminutive duodenal NETs. Our study included eight patients referred for endoscopic treatment of incidentally discovered, biopsy proven, diminutive duodenal bulb NETs. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in all patients showed duodenal bulb NETs located in the deep mucosa and submucosal layers without any nodal metastasis. The BWR technique was successfully performed in all patients with technical feasibility, with the assistance of submucosal saline lift in three patients when the lesion was smaller than 5 mm in size, without any immediate or delayed adverse events. Complete resection with no residual lesion was confirmed at short-term (median 2.3 months) and long-term (median 4.2 years) follow-up intervals by repeat endoscopy, biopsy, and EUS exam. The BWR technique appears to be a safe, feasible, and effective therapy for endoscopic treatment of diminutive duodenal bulb NETs in the absence of local and distant metastasis.
Supercutaneous Plating for the Treatment of Traumatic Injuries of the Appendicular Skeleton in Dogs
Authors: Longo Federico , Nicetto Tommaso
Published: February 2019

Objectives The purpose of this study was to report the clinical outcomes of traumatic appendicular bone injuries treated with supercutaneous plating.

Methods We conducted a retrospective case series of medical records following fracture fixation using locking implants with a supercutaneous plating technique. Inclusion criteria comprised a complete clinical and radiographical follow-up until implant removal. Patient history and signalment as well as fracture configuration were recorded.

Results Five appendicular long bone fractures (3 radii, 2 tibiae) were included in the study and they were all treated using conical coupling locking plates. The patient mean age was 2.3 years (range: 0.3–5.8 years) and the mean body weight 16.5 kg (range: 3–27 kg).

One major (implant failure) and minor complications (delayed bone union and iatrogenic recurvatum deformity) were detected. The removal of the plates was quick and did not require general anaesthesia. All five fractures treated healed and patients were sound at final follow-up. Neither discomfort nor pain were noticed during the postoperative patient management.

Clinical Significance The advantages related to the minimally invasive approach and implant removal could make the supercutaneous plating (SCP) an alternative to the traditional external skeletal fixation.

Further clinical investigations are required before definitive treatment recommendations using this technique can be made. In consideration of some of the complications detected, the use of fluoroscopy is recommended to support the surgeon at the beginning of their SCP learning curve.
Kinetic and Kinematic Analysis of Dogs Suffering from Hip Osteoarthritis and Healthy Dogs Across Different Physical Activities
Authors: Escobar Andres , Germano Bruno , Farias Claudia , Gomes Luana , Matera Julia , Souza Alexandre
Published: February 2019

Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate mobility performance in dogs suffering from hip osteoarthritis secondary to hip dysplasia using kinesiology.

Materials and Methods Twenty dogs with a radiographical diagnosis of bilateral hip dysplasia and hip osteoarthritis and 20 healthy dogs were submitted to kinetic and kinematic analysis while climbing upstairs, walking down a slope, sitting down, standing up, and walking. Dogs were also scored by two blind examiners using a visual analog scale (VAS).

Results Dysplastic dogs had lower peak vertical force (4% of body weight on average), increased symmetry index (12.6% difference on average) and reduced maximum hip joint extension angle and range of motion (ROM) in all tests. Mean hip joint range of motion difference was 11, 20, 25.4 and 25.2 degrees (walking, climbing upstairs, walking down a slope, sitting down and standing up exercise respectively). The VAS scores varied widely between examiners; still, healthy and dysplastic dog mobility differed across all physical test tasks.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance Gait changes were observed in all physical tasks performed by dysplastic dogs with hip osteoarthritis, particularly in those requiring higher levels of effort. Comprehensive, quantitative assessment of dogs suffering from hip osteoarthritis across a range of physical activities is recommended.
Off-pump Revascularization with Bilateral versus Single Mammary Arteries—A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis
Authors: Puehler Thomas , Zittermann Armin , Dia Mohamad , Emmel Eric , Gercek Mustafa , Börgermann Jochen , Hakim-Meibodi Kavous , Gummert Jan
Published: February 2019

Background Coronary artery bypass grafting is the first-line therapy for severe multivessel coronary artery disease. We aimed to investigate the clinical outcome in patients undergoing isolated off-pump surgery with the single or bilateral internal mammary artery (SIMA or BIMA) approach.

Methods We performed a propensity score-matched analysis in 1,852 consecutive patients, aged 50 to 70 years, who underwent myocardial revascularization at our institution between July 2009 and August 2016. Primary end point was the probability of survival.

Results Mean follow-up was 36.3 (range: 0.1–89.6) months. The probability of survival in the SIMA and BIMA groups was 98.6 and 99.0% at year 1, 92.0 and 92.5% at year 5, and 85.6 and 81.6% at year 7, respectively, with a hazard ratio (HR) of mortality for the BIMA group versus the SIMA group of 0.98 (95% confidence interval[CI]: 0.64–1.52; p = 0.94). There was evidence for interaction between diabetes and study group on mortality risk (HR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.07–6.23; p = 0.034). Freedom from mediastinitis/wound infection was higher in the SIMA group than in the BIMA group (99.5 and 96.9%, respectively; HR of an event = 6.39, 95% CI: 2.88–14.18; p < 0.001). The corresponding values in the subgroups of diabetic patients were 98.6 and 90.9%, respectively (HR = 6.45, 95% CI: 2.24–18.58; p = 0.001). Mediastinitis/wound infection was associated with increased mortality risk (HR = 2.96, 95% CI: 1.29–6.78; p = 0.010).

Conclusion Overall, our data indicate similar probability of survival up to a maximum follow-up of 7 years by off-pump surgery with the SIMA or BIMA approach. However, in diabetic patients, the clinical outcome indicates caution regarding the use of the BIMA approach.
Total Correction of Tetralogy of Fallot in the First 60 Days of Life in Symptomatic Infants: Is It The Gold Standard?
Authors: Menaissy Yasser , Omar Ihab , Mofreh Basem , Alassal Mohamed
Published: February 2019

Background The timing of surgical repair of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is a key to alleviate complications and for long-term survival. Total correction was usually performed at the age of 6 months or older under the notion of decreasing the surgical risk. However, avoiding palliation with an aortopulmonary shunt and early correction of systemic hypoxia appear to be of more benefit than the inborn surgical risk in low body weight patients. Our objective was to assess early/midterm survival and operative complications and to analyze patients, surgical techniques, and morphological risk factors to determine their effects on outcomes.

Patients and Methods We retrospectively reviewed 152 patients with TOF who were ≤60 days of age when they underwent total correction of TOF. All patients had either duct-dependent pulmonary blood flow or arterial blood oxygen saturation less than 65% on room air requiring urgent surgical correction. Exclusion criteria included TOF with pulmonary atresia, TOF with nonconfluent pulmonary arteries, TOF with multiple aortopulmonary collateral arteries, and associated complete atrioventricular septal defects.

Results The mean age at repair was 34 ± 19 days, and the mean weight was 3.8 ± 0.9 kg. Before surgery, 96 patients received an infusion of prostaglandin, 45 were mechanically ventilated, and 32 required inotropic support. Right ventricular outflow tract obstruction was managed with a transannular patch in 112 patients, and all the others had a main pulmonary artery patch. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with moderate hypothermia was the standard, and the CPB time averaged 48 ± 21 minutes. The postoperative intensive care unit stay was 5.7 ± 6 days, with 2.8 ± 4 days of mechanical ventilation. Early mortality was 4.6% (7 of 152), and actuarial survival rates were 95% at 1 year and 92% at 5 years. Univariable and multivariable analyses of the patients' demographics, anatomical characteristics, and operative techniques revealed the presence of small pulmonary arteries and low body weight to be the only independent risk factors for death.

Conclusion Early total correction of TOF during the first 60 days of life can be performed with low mortality and good intermediate-term survival and, from our point of view, “should be the gold standard for TOFs.”
Do Life History Traits Influence Patterns of Maternal Immune Elements in New World Blackbirds (Icteridae)?
Authors: Fassbinder-Orth C A , Igl L D , Hahn D C , Watts K M , Wilcoxen T E , Ramos-Álvarez K R
Published: February 2019

Avian immunology developed originally by investigating domesticated poultry species (Galliformes), but in recent decades eco-immunological studies of wild bird species have revealed that avian immune systems are more diverse than initially assumed. This study compares six immunological elements in eggs of six species within the same family, the New World blackbirds (Icteridae),whose members differ most notably in two life history parameters, brood parasitism and body size. We measured the maternal immune investment of passive immune components in both yolk and albumen: lysozyme, ovotransferrin, and immunoglobulins (Igs), and LPS-specific Igs. We predicted that brood parasites would have higher levels of immune activity for both innate and adaptive immunity compared with non-brood parasites, and that increased body size could increase microbial exposure of larger animals, resulting in an increase in some adaptive immune responses, such as LPS-specific Igs. We found that brood parasites had significantly higher levels of Igs and lysozyme levels in albumen, but significantly lower levels of Igs in yolk compared with non-brood parasites. Igs in yolk scaled according to body size, with the smallest organisms (the brood parasites) having the lowest levels, and the largest organism (common grackle) having the highest. Our results confirm the findings of other studies of comparative immunity among species in a single taxon that (1) similarities in immune investment cannot be assumed among closely related species and (2) single measures of immune defense cannot be assumed to be indicators of a species’ overall immune strategy, as life history traits can differentially affect immune responses.
The Development of Integration in Marsupial and Placental Limbs
Authors: Kelly E M , Marcot J D , Selwood L , Sears K E
Published: February 2019

The morphological interdependence of traits, or their integration, is commonly thought to influence their evolution. As such, study of morphological integration and the factors responsible for its generation form an important branch of the field of morphological evolution. However, most research to date on post-cranial morphological integration has focused on adult patterns of integration. This study investigates patterns of correlation (i.e., morphological integration) among skeletal elements of the fore- and hind limbs of developing marsupial and placental mammals. The goals of this study are to establish how patterns of limb integration vary over development in marsupials and placentals, and identify factors that are likely responsible for their generation. Our results indicate that although the overall pattern of correlation among limb elements is consistent with adult integration throughout mammalian development, correlations vary at the level of the individual element and stage. As a result, the relative integration among fore- and hind limb elements varies dynamically between stages during development in both marsupial and placental mammals. Therefore, adult integration studies of the limbs may not be indicative of developmental integration. Results are also consistent with integration during early limb development being more heavily influenced by genetic and developmental factors, and later by function. Additionally, results are generally consistent with a constraint on marsupial forelimb evolution caused by the functional requirements of the crawl to the teat that operates by limiting morphological variation before and at the time of birth, and not after.
Epidemic Clostridioides difficile Ribotype 027 Lineages: Comparisons of Texas Versus Worldwide Strains
Authors: Endres Bradley T , Begum Khurshida , Sun Hua , Walk Seth T , Memariani Ali , Lancaster Chris , Gonzales-Luna Anne J , Dotson Kierra M , Bassères Eugénie , Offiong Charlene , Tupy Shawn , Kuper Kristi , Septimus Edward , Arafat Raouf , Alam M Jahangir , Zhao Zhongming , Hurdle Julian G , Savidge Tor C , Garey Kevin W
Published: February 2019

Background

The epidemic Clostridioides difficile ribotype 027 strain resulted from the dissemination of 2 separate fluoroquinolone-resistant lineages: FQR1 and FQR2. Both lineages were reported to originate in North America; however, confirmatory large-scale investigations of C difficile ribotype 027 epidemiology using whole genome sequencing has not been undertaken in the United States.

Methods

Whole genome sequencing and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis was performed on 76 clinical ribotype 027 isolates obtained from hospitalized patients in Texas with C difficile infection and compared with 32 previously sequenced worldwide strains. Maximum-likelihood phylogeny based on a set of core genome SNPs was used to construct phylogenetic trees investigating strain macro- and microevolution. Bayesian phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses were used to incorporate temporal and geographic variables with the SNP strain analysis.

Results

Whole genome sequence analysis identified 2841 SNPs including 900 nonsynonymous mutations, 1404 synonymous substitutions, and 537 intergenic changes. Phylogenetic analysis separated the strains into 2 prominent groups, which grossly differed by 28 SNPs: the FQR1 and FQR2 lineages. Five isolates were identified as pre-epidemic strains. Phylogeny demonstrated unique clustering and resistance genes in Texas strains indicating that spatiotemporal bias has defined the microevolution of ribotype 027 genetics.

Conclusions

Clostridioides difficile ribotype 027 lineages emerged earlier than previously reported, coinciding with increased use of fluoroquinolones. Both FQR1 and FQR2 ribotype 027 epidemic lineages are present in Texas, but they have evolved geographically to represent region-specific public health threats.
Dirofilaria repens Infection Mimicking Lung Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Oliva A , Gabrielli S , Pernazza A , Pagini A , Daralioti T , Mantovani S , Mattiucci S , D’Amati G , Mastroianni C M
Published: February 2019

We describe a rare case of Dirofilaria repens infection presenting as peripheral lung nodules and mimicking a metastatic focus from a previously diagnosed cutaneous melanoma. To avoid invasive investigations before arriving at the correct diagnosis, dirofilariasis should be included as a part of the diagnostic process in subjects with lung nodules who live in (or have traveled to) endemic regions.
Preparation for and Management of “Failed” Laryngoscopy and/or Intubation
Authors: Cooper Richard M.
Published: February 2019

An airway manager’s primary objective is to provide a path to oxygenation. This can be achieved by means of a facemask, a supraglottic airway, or a tracheal tube. If one method fails, an alternative approach may avert hypoxia. We cannot always predict the difficulties with each of the methods, but these difficulties may be overcome by an alternative technique. Each unsuccessful attempt to maintain oxygenation is time lost and may incrementally increase the risk of hypoxia, trauma, and airway obstruction necessitating a surgical airway. We should strive to optimize each effort. Differentiation between failed laryngoscopy and failed intubation is important because the solutions differ. Failed facemask ventilation may be easily managed with an supraglottic airway or alternatively tracheal intubation. When alveolar ventilation cannot be achieved by facemask, supraglottic airway, or tracheal intubation, every anesthesiologist should be prepared to perform an emergency surgical airway to avert disaster.
Differences in the Majeed Pelvic Score Between Injured and Uninjured Patients
Authors: Brouwers Lars , Wouter Lansink Koen Willem , van Delft-Schreurs Katinka , Cornelia de Jongh Mariska Adriana
Published: February 2019

Objectives:

To investigate the differences in the Majeed Pelvic Score (MPS) between injured and uninjured patients. Discriminative power and applicability of the MPS in elderly are also investigated, and a norm score for the MPS in the Netherlands is provided.

Design:

Cross-sectional cohort study.

Setting:

Urban level 1 trauma center.

Patients/Participants:

One hundred ninety-five patients with pelvic ring disruptions; 101 61A, 67 61B, and 27 61C (OTA/AO classification; 6%, 27%, and 82% surgically treated, respectively); mean follow-up 29 months (range 6–61); 554 adults from the Longitudinal Internet Studies for the Social Sciences panel (control group). Participants were divided into 2 age groups: <65 and ≥65 years (respectively, maximum MPS: 100 and 80 points).

Main Outcome Measurements:

Majeed Pelvic Score.

Results:

Patients <65 years of age (81.6) scored lower on the MPS when compared with the control group (88.3, P < 0.001). Patients ≥65 years of age (68.1) scored lower on the MPS when compared with the control group (72.0, P = 0.006). In the <65 group, the patient group scored worse on the sexual function, work, and standing dimensions (P < 0.001). In the ≥65 group, the patient group scored worse on the dimensions sitting (P = 0.03) and standing (P < 0.001) and better on the dimension pain (P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Compared with the general population, patients with pelvic ring disruption in both age groups perceived some health problems in almost all MPS domains. The MPS discriminates well enough to provide information about the mobility of elderly patients.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Treatment of Peritrochanteric Femur Fractures With Proximal Femur Locked Plating
Authors: Medda Suman , Sullivan Rashad J. , Marquez-Lara Alejandro , Araiza Edgar T. , Pilson Holly T. , Halvorson Jason J. , Carroll Eben A.
Published: February 2019

Objectives:

To report on our results using a proximal femoral locking plate for the treatment of peritrochanteric femur fractures.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Setting:

Level I Academic Medical Center.

Patients:

Sixty-eight patients with 68 fractures.

Intervention:

Demographics, fracture morphology, preoperative imaging, rationale against nailing, and outcomes were collected.

Main Outcome Measurements:

Outcomes were grouped into no complication, minor complication, or major complication. Minor complications included healed fractures with implant failure or change in alignment from immediate postoperative radiographs, which did not require intervention or elective implant removal. Major complications included any case that required revision for nonunion or implant failure.

Results:

Nine patients were lost to follow-up. Of the 59 fractures, 16 had complications (27%): 9 minor and 7 major. Active tobacco use (P = 0.020) and fractures with an associated intracapsular femoral neck component (P = 0.006) correlated with complications.

Conclusions:

Proximal femoral locking plates continue to be associated with a high complication rate. However, based on our experience, proximal femoral locking plates may be considered in highly selected cases when absolutely no other implant is deemed appropriate, based on the degree of comminution and the complexity of the fracture pattern. Patients must be informed about the possibility of revision surgery based on the inherent limitations of these devices.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
The Effect of Mechanical Ventilation on Peripheral Perfusion Index and Its Association With the Prognosis of Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Su Longxiang , Zhang Ruiming , Zhang Qing , Xu Qun , Zhou Xiang , Cui Na , Wang Hao , Wang Xiaoting , Chai Wenzhao , Rui Xi , Liu Dawei , Long Yun
Published: February 2019

Objectives:

This study aimed to explore the relationship between the variables of mechanical ventilation and circulatory perfusion and its association with ICU mortality during the first day of mechanical ventilation.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

The Department of Critical Care Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital.

Patients:

Patients who have undergone mechanical ventilation.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

This study used the main clinical data obtained from the real-time bedside messaging systems of mechanically ventilated patients during their first day in the ICU from May 2013 to May 2016, including data on the variables of mechanical ventilation and circulatory perfusion. An analysis was then performed on the association of the above data with the patient’s in-ICU mortality. There were 5,103 patients who received mechanical ventilation during this period, and of these, 309 patients died during their ICU treatment. Peak airway pressure, mean airway pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, Fio
2, blood oxygen saturation, Po
2, peripheral perfusion index, and lactate level were correlated with patient outcomes. A Cox logistic regression analysis suggested that mean airway pressure and perfusion index were the most independent risk and protective factors, respectively, for patient ICU mortality. The areas under the curve for a poor prognosis for mean airway pressure and perfusion index were 0.799 (95% CI, 0.77–0.829) and 0.759 (95% CI, 0.729–0.789), respectively. Further, mean airway pressure and perfusion index exhibited a causal interaction. The relative excess risk due to interaction was 2.061 (–0.691 to 4.814), the attributable proportion due to interaction was 0.210 (–0.027 to 0.447), and the synergy index was 1.306 (0.930–1.833).

Conclusions:

A higher mean airway pressure and lower perfusion index provided a worse prognosis in mechanically ventilated patients, and it appears that these two variables have a casual interaction.
Circulating Secretoneurin Concentrations After Cardiac Surgery: Data From the FINNish Acute Kidney Injury Heart Study
Authors: Brynildsen Jon , Petäjä Liisa , Myhre Peder L. , Lyngbakken Magnus N. , Nygård Ståle , Stridsberg Mats , Christensen Geir , Ottesen Anett H. , Pettilä Ville , Omland Torbjørn , Røsjø Helge
Published: February 2019

Objectives:

Secretoneurin is associated with cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling and improves risk prediction in patients with acute myocardial dysfunction. Whether secretoneurin improves risk assessment on top of established cardiac biomarkers and European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II in patients undergoing cardiac surgery is not known.

Design:

Prospective, observational, single-center sub-study of a multicenter study.

Setting:

Prospective observational study of survival in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Patients:

A total of 619 patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Interventions:

Patients underwent either isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery, single noncoronary artery bypass graft surgery, two procedures, or three or more procedures. Procedures other than coronary artery bypass graft were valve surgery, surgery on thoracic aorta, and other cardiac surgery.

Measurements and Main Results:

We measured preoperative and postoperative secretoneurin concentrations and adjusted for European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, and cardiac troponin T concentrations in multivariate analyses. During 961 days of follow-up, 59 patients died (9.5%). Secretoneurin concentrations were higher among nonsurvivors compared with survivors, both before (168 pmol/L [quartile 1–3, 147–206 pmol/L] vs 160 pmol/L [131–193 pmol/L]; p = 0.039) and after cardiac surgery (173 pmol/L [129–217 pmol/L] vs 143 pmol/L [111–173 pmol/L]; p < 0.001). Secretoneurin concentrations decreased from preoperative to postoperative measurements in survivors, whereas we observed no significant decrease in secretoneurin concentrations among nonsurvivors. Secretoneurin concentrations were weakly correlated with established risk indices. Patients with the highest postoperative secretoneurin concentrations had worse outcome compared with patients with lower secretoneurin concentrations (p < 0.001 by the log-rank test) and postoperative secretoneurin concentrations were associated with time to death in multivariate Cox regression analysis: hazard ratio lnsecretoneurin 2.96 (95% CI, 1.46–5.99; p = 0.003). Adding postoperative secretoneurin concentrations to European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II improved patient risk stratification, as assessed by the integrated discrimination index: 0.023 (95% CI, 0.0043–0.041; p = 0.016).

Conclusions:

Circulating postoperative secretoneurin concentrations provide incremental prognostic information to established risk indices in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Demonstrate Mitochondrial Damage Clearance During Sepsis
Authors: Kraft Bryan D. , Chen Lingye , Suliman Hagir B. , Piantadosi Claude A. , Welty-Wolf Karen E.
Published: February 2019

Objectives:

Metabolic derangements in sepsis stem from mitochondrial injury and contribute significantly to organ failure and mortality; however, little is known about mitochondrial recovery in human sepsis. We sought to test markers of mitochondrial injury and recovery (mitochondrial biogenesis) noninvasively in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with sepsis and correlate serial measurements with clinical outcomes.

Design:

Prospective case-control study.

Setting:

Academic Medical Center and Veterans Affairs Hospital.

Patients:

Uninfected control patients (n = 20) and septic ICU patients (n = 37).

Interventions:

Blood samples were collected once from control patients and serially with clinical data on days 1, 3, and 5 from septic patients. Gene products for HMOX1, NRF1, PPARGC1A, and TFAM, and mitochondrial DNA ND1 and D-loop were measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Proinflammatory cytokines were measured in plasma and neutrophil lysates.

Measurements and Main Results:

Median (interquartile range) Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores were 21 (8) and 10 (4), respectively, and 90-day mortality was 19%. Transcript levels of all four genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were significantly reduced in septic patients on day 1 (p < 0.05), whereas mitochondrial DNA copy number fell and plasma D-loop increased (both p < 0.05), indicative of mitochondrial damage. D-loop content was directly proportional to tumor necrosis factor-α and high-mobility group protein B1 cytokine expression. By day 5, we observed transcriptional activation of mitochondrial biogenesis and restoration of mitochondrial DNA copy number (p < 0.05). Patients with early activation of mitochondrial biogenesis were ICU-free by 1 week.

Conclusions:

Our findings support data that sepsis-induced mitochondrial damage is reversed by activation of mitochondrial biogenesis and that gene transcripts measured noninvasively in peripheral blood mononuclear cells can serve as novel biomarkers of sepsis recovery.
Very late recurrence of iris melanoma: 45 years after treatment
Authors: Bosello Francesca , Al-Jamal Rana’a T. , Cohen Victoria M.L.
Published: February 2019

Iris melanoma is a rare tumour that accounts for ~3–4% of all uveal melanoma cases. In the past, surgical resection was the sole treatement option, whereas nowadays, it has been replaced by brachytherapy as treatment of choice. Surgical resection is still in use in selected cases but combined with adjuvant radiotherapy in cases of incomplete resection. Herein, we report the case of a very late recurrence, 45 years after surgical resection. A literature review was performed to detect the latest recurrence reported to date and to understand the etiology behind very late recurrences. The role of multiple factors is discussed to explain this extremely delayed growth.
TIMING INFLUENCE ON OUTCOMES OF VITRECTOMY FOR OPEN-GLOBE INJURY
Authors: He Yan , Zhang Ling , Wang Fang , Zhu Meidong , Wang Yi , Liu Yong
Published: February 2019

Purpose:

To compare the impact of surgical timing on anatomical and functional outcomes of vitrectomy for open-globe injury.

Methods:

Fifty-three patients were entered into this prospective open-label study, with 26 patients randomized into early surgery group (vitrectomy conducted within 4 days) and 27 into delayed surgery group (vitrectomy performed between 10–14 days after injury). Six-month data were available for 46 patients and 7 were lost to follow-up. The main outcome measures were incidence of traumatic proliferative vitreoretinopathy assessed intraoperatively and postoperatively, reattachment of retina, eye enucleation, improvement of the best-corrected visual acuity, and complications.

Results:

Patient demographics and surgical intervention were similar in both groups. Final analysis of 46 patients demonstrated higher rates of traumatic proliferative vitreoretinopathy assessed both intraoperatively and postoperatively in the delayed group (P = 0.000; P = 0.054). In the early surgery group, 18 of 21 patients had retinal detachment, of which 15 patients (83%) achieved retinal reattachment by the first vitreoretinal surgery, 2 patients (11%) by a second surgery, and 1 (6%) received enucleation. In the delayed surgery group, 22 of 25 patients had retinal detachment. Retinal reattachment was achieved in 7 (32%) and 8 (36%) with the first and the second surgery, respectively, and 7 patients (32%) received enucleation (P = 0.005). In the early surgery group, best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly, moderately, and decreased in 8 patients (38%), 11 eyes (52%) and 2 eyes (10%), respectively. In the delayed surgery group, best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly, moderately, and worsened in 3 eyes (12%), 12 eyes (48%), and 10 eyes (40%) (P = 0.041), respectively. No statistically significant difference was observed in the rate of postoperative complications between the two groups.

Conclusion:

Early vitrectomy after open-globe injury leads to better anatomical and functional outcomes.