bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanoscale battery cathode materials induce DNA damage in bacteria
Authors: Qiu Tian A. , Guidolin Valeria , Hoang Khoi Nguyen L. , Pho Thomas , Carra' Andrea , Villalta Peter W. , He Jiayi , Yao Xiaoxiao , Hamers Robert J. , Balbo Silvia , Feng Z. Vivian , Haynes Christy L.
Published: September 2020

The increasing use of nanoscale lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LixNiyMnzCo1−y−zO2, NMC) as a cathode material in lithium-ion batteries poses risk to the environment. We report DNA damage that occurs in bacteria after nano-NMC exposure with rich chemical details.
Phosphoryl- and phosphonium-bridged viologens as stable two- and three-electron acceptors for organic electrodes
Authors: Bridges Colin R. , Borys Andryj M. , Béland Vanessa A. , Gaffen Joshua R. , Baumgartner Thomas
Published: September 2020

Two strongly electron-accepting viologens, including an intriguing tricationic species, are reported. The utility of the tricationic viologen for energy storage has been showcased via use as electrode in a proof-of-concept battery.
A molecular approach to rationally constructing specific fluorogenic substrates for the detection of acetylcholinesterase activity in live cells, mice brains and tissues
Authors: Wu Xiaofeng , An Jong Min , Shang Jizhen , Huh Eugene , Qi Sujie , Lee Eunhye , Li Haidong , Kim Gyoungmi , Ma Huimin , Oh Myung Sook , Kim Dokyoung , Yoon Juyoung
Published: September 2020

In this work, a new approach was developed for designing the representative P10 with high selectivity and sensitivity for imaging AChE activity in the cells and normal mouse brain.
A hierarchical assembly strategy for near-infrared photothermal conversion: unconventional heterogeneous metalla[2]catenanes
Authors: Lu Ye , Liu Dong , Lin Yue-Jian , Jin Guo-Xin
Published: September 2020

Herein, we report a hierarchical assembly strategy for constructing heterogeneous half-sandwich organometallic D–A (D = π-donor, A = π-acceptor) interlocked structures, and their application in near-infrared (NIR) photothermal conversion.
Catalytic generation of alkoxy radicals from unfunctionalized alcohols
Authors: Tsui Elaine , Wang Huaiju , Knowles Robert R.
Published: September 2020

This review summarizes recent advances in the catalytic generation of alkoxy radicals from unfunctionalized alcohols and highlights current methods for O–H bond activation.
Pearl-necklace assembly of human serum albumin with the poly(acrylic acid) polyelectrolyte investigated using small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS)
Authors: Merzougui Charaf E. , Roblin Pierre , Aimar Pierre , Venault Antoine , Chang Yung , Causserand Christel , Bacchin Patrice
Published: September 2020

In this comprehensive study, the interaction of human serum albumin (HSA) with poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) was explored using small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) combined with chromatography.
The Ba3Mo1−xWxNbO8.5 ion conductors: insights into local coordination from X-ray and neutron total scattering
Authors: Coduri Mauro , Bernasconi Andrea , Fischer Henry E. , Malavasi Lorenzo
Published: September 2020

The local structure of Ba3Mo1−xWxNbO8.5 is consistent with a mixture of regions richer in tetrahedral and octahedral sites, which redistribute at high temperature after a reconstructive phase transition.
What is the better choice for Pd cocatalysts for photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to renewable fuels: high-crystallinity or amorphous?
Authors: Chen Qin , Wu Shijie , Zhong Shuxian , Gao Binjia , Wang Weijun , Mo Weihao , Lin Hongjun , Wei Xiaoxuan , Bai Song , Chen Jianrong
Published: September 2020

Crystallinity engineering has been performed on Pd nanosheet cocatalysts to tune both the interfacial charge kinetics and surface reaction dynamics for adjustable activity and selectivity in photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into solar fuels.
An efficient Li+-doping strategy to optimize the band alignment of a Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4/CdS interface by a Se&LiF co-selenization process
Authors: Guo Hongling , Wang Gang , Meng Rutao , Sun Yali , Wang Siyu , Zhang Shengli , Wu Jianyu , Wu Li , Liang Guangxing , Li Hui , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2020

A novel and efficient co-selenization approach was proposed to promote the grain growth and optimize the band diagram.
A chemically stable cucurbit[6]uril-based hydrogen-bonded organic framework for potential SO2/CO2 separation
Authors: Liang Jun , Xing Shanghua , Brandt Philipp , Nuhnen Alexander , Schlüsener Carsten , Sun Yangyang , Janiak Christoph
Published: September 2020

Both high SO2 uptake and excellent SO2/CO2 selectivity are achieved by an organic cage-based hydrogen-bonded organic framework (HOF) material based on experimental and theoretical studies.
Few-layer black phosphorus and boron-doped graphene based heteroelectrocatalyst for enhanced hydrogen evolution
Authors: Suragtkhuu Selengesuren , Bat-Erdene Munkhjargal , Bati Abdulaziz S. R. , Shapter Joseph G. , Davaasambuu Sarangerel , Batmunkh Munkhbayar
Published: September 2020

Efficient heterostructured electrocatalysts based on two-dimensional few-layer black phosphorus nanosheets and boron-doped graphene are designed for the hydrogen evolution reaction.
Synthesis, characterization and application of defective metal–organic frameworks: current status and perspectives
Authors: Xiang Wenlong , Zhang Yueping , Chen Yifei , Liu Chang-jun , Tu Xin
Published: September 2020

An overview of important recent advances on synthesis, characterization and application of defective metal–organic frameworks is provided.
Harnessing the enantiomeric recognition ability of hydrophobic polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) toward amino acids by converting them into hydrophilic polymer dots
Authors: Feizi Froozan , Shamsipur Mojtaba , Gholivand Mohammad Bagher , Taherpour Avat (Arman) , Barati Ali , Shamsipur Hosna , Mohajerani Ezeddin , Budd Peter
Published: September 2020

In this work, we synthesized novel polymer dots (Pdots) from polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) containing a racemic mixture of R- and S-chiral centers as the hydrophobic conjugated polymer chains.
Band-like transporting and thermally durable V-shaped organic semiconductors with a phenyl key block
Authors: Sawabe Chizuru , Kumagai Shohei , Mitani Masato , Ishii Hiroyuki , Yamagishi Masakazu , Sagayama Hajime , Kumai Reiji , Sato Hiroyasu , Takeya Jun , Okamoto Toshihiro
Published: September 2020

Sulphur-containing V-shaped π-electron systems with substituents based on a phenyl key block exhibit band-like hole transport and high thermal durability.
A general hierarchical flower-shaped cobalt oxide spinel template: facile method, morphology control, and enhanced saturation magnetization
Authors: Fu Zheng , Qiao Liang , Liu Yang , Xuan Zhengxi , Li Changning , Pillai Saranya Rajendra , Lee Chaeeon , Swihart Mark
Published: September 2020

A robust and general method for producing cobaltite spinel nanostructures containing a broad array of additional elements is presented.
ShNPSN11, a vesicle-transport-related gene, confers disease resistance in tomato to Oidium neolycopersici
Authors: Lian Qinggui , Meng Yanan , Zhao Xinbei , Xu Yuanliu , Wang Yang , Day Brad , Ma Qing
Published: September 2020

Tomato powdery mildew, caused by Oidium neolycopersici, is a fungal disease that results in severe yield loss in infected plants. Herein, we describe the function of a class of proteins, soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs), which play a role in vesicle transport during defense signaling. To date, there have been no reports describing the function of tomato SNAREs during resistance signaling to powdery mildew. Using a combination of classical plant pathology-, genetics-, and cell biology-based approaches, we evaluate the role of ShNPSN11 in resistance to the powdery mildew pathogen O. neolycopersici. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of tomato SNAREs revealed that ShNPSN11 mRNA accumulation in disease-resistant varieties was significantly increased following pathogen, compared with susceptible varieties, suggesting a role during induced defense signaling. Using in planta subcellular localization, we demonstrate that ShNPSN11 was primarily localized at the plasma membrane, consistent with the localization of SNARE proteins and their role in defense signaling and trafficking. Silencing of ShNPSN11 resulted in increased susceptibility to O. neolycopersici, with pathogen-induced levels of H2O2 and cell death elicitation in ShNPSN11-silenced lines showing a marked reduction. Transient expression of ShNPSN11 did not result in the induction of a hypersensitive cell death response or suppress cell death induced by BAX. Taken together, these data demonstrate that ShNPSNl11 plays an important role in defense activation and host resistance to O. neolycopersici in tomato LA1777.
Hereditary hemochromatosis promotes colitis and colon cancer and causes bacterial dysbiosis in mice
Authors: Sivaprakasam Sathish , Ristic Bojana , Mudaliar Nithya , Hamood Abdul N. , Colmer-Hamood Jane , Wachtel Mitchell S. , Nevels Anna G. , Kottapalli Kameswara R. , Ganapathy Vadivel
Published: September 2020

Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH), an iron-overload disease, is a prevalent genetic disorder. As excess iron causes a multitude of metabolic disturbances, we postulated that iron overload in HH disrupts colonic homeostasis and colon–microbiome interaction and exacerbates the development and progression of colonic inflammation and colon cancer. To test this hypothesis, we examined the progression and severity of colitis and colon cancer in a mouse model of HH (Hfe−/−), and evaluated the potential contributing factors. We found that experimentally induced colitis and colon cancer progressed more robustly in Hfe−/− mice than in wild-type mice. The underlying causes were multifactorial. Hfe−/− colons were leakier with lower proliferation capacity of crypt cells, which impaired wound healing and amplified inflammation-driven tissue injury. The host/microflora axis was also disrupted. Sequencing of fecal 16S RNA revealed profound changes in the colonic microbiome in Hfe−/− mice in favor of the pathogenic bacteria belonging to phyla Proteobacteria and TM7. There was an increased number of bacteria adhered onto the mucosal surface of the colonic epithelium in Hfe−/− mice than in wild-type mice. Furthermore, the expression of innate antimicrobial peptides, the first-line of defense against bacteria, was lower in Hfe−/− mouse colon than in wild-type mouse colon; the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines upon inflammatory stimuli was also greater in Hfe−/− mouse colon than in wild-type mouse colon. These data provide evidence that excess iron accumulation in colonic tissue as happens in HH promotes colitis and colon cancer, accompanied with bacterial dysbiosis and loss of function of the intestinal/colonic barrier.
Eigenvalue‐based ground target detection in high‐resolution range profiles
Authors: Jiang Yuan , Wang Yan‐Hua , Li Yang , Chen Xing
Published: September 2020

In this study, the authors address the problem of range‐distributed target detection in sequential high resolution range profiles (HRRPs). They propose a modified scaled largest eigenvalue detector for static target in homogenous ground clutter. A set of secondary data, which are free of target signal and have the same distribution as the clutter in the primary data, are assumed to be available. First, the sample covariance matrix (SCM) is estimated from the acquired multiple HRRPs in a short coherent processing interval. Then, the eigenvalue decomposition of the SCM is performed, and the eigenvalues are sorted in descending order. Finally, the largest eigenvalue scaled by the noise power estimated from the secondary data is selected as the detection statistic. Compared with existing methods of largest eigenvalue‐based detection, the proposed method achieves better detection performance for coloured clutter by considering secondary data. Numerical and experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
The Milky Way Cepheid Leavitt law based on Gaia DR2 parallaxes of companion stars and host open cluster populations
Authors: Breuval Louise , Kervella Pierre , Anderson Richard I. , Riess Adam G. , Arenou Frédéric , Trahin Boris , Mérand Antoine , Gallenne Alexandre , Gieren Wolfgang , Storm Jesper , Bono Giuseppe , Pietrzyński Grzegorz , Nardetto Nicolas , Javanmardi Behnam , Hocdé Vincent
Published: September 2020

Aims. Classical Cepheids provide the foundation for the empirical extragalactic distance ladder. Milky Way Cepheids are the only stars in this class accessible to trigonometric parallax measurements. However, the parallaxes of Cepheids from the second Gaia data release (GDR2) are affected by systematics because of the absence of chromaticity correction, and occasionally by saturation.

Methods. As a proxy for the parallaxes of 36 Galactic Cepheids, we adopt either the GDR2 parallaxes of their spatially resolved companions or the GDR2 parallax of their host open cluster. This novel approach allows us to bypass the systematics on the GDR2 Cepheids parallaxes that is induced by saturation and variability. We adopt a GDR2 parallax zero-point (ZP) of −0.046 mas with an uncertainty of 0.015 mas that covers most of the recent estimates.

Results. We present new Galactic calibrations of the Leavitt law in the V, J, H, KS, and Wesenheit WH bands. We compare our results with previous calibrations based on non-Gaia measurements and compute a revised value for the Hubble constant anchored to Milky Way Cepheids.

Conclusions. From an initial Hubble constant of 76.18 ± 2.37 km s−1 Mpc−1 based on parallax measurements without Gaia, we derive a revised value by adopting companion and average cluster parallaxes in place of direct Cepheid parallaxes, and we find H0 = 72.8 ± 1.9 (statistical + systematics) ±1.9 (ZP) km s−1 Mpc−1 when all Cepheids are considered and H0 = 73.0 ± 1.9 (statistical + systematics) ±1.9 (ZP) km s−1 Mpc−1 for fundamental mode pulsators only.
Excitation and acceleration of molecular outflows in LIRGs: The extended ESO 320-G030 outflow on 200-pc scales
Authors: Pereira-Santaella M. , Colina L. , García-Burillo S. , González-Alfonso E. , Alonso-Herrero A. , Arribas S. , Cazzoli S. , Piqueras-López J. , Rigopoulou D. , Usero A.
Published: September 2020

We used high-spatial resolution (70 pc; 0$ {{\overset{\prime\prime}{.}}} $3) CO multi-transition (J = 1–0, 2–1, 4–3, and 6–5) ALMA data to study the physical conditions and kinematics of the cold molecular outflow in the local luminous infrared galaxy (LIRG) ESO 320-G030 (d = 48 Mpc, LIR/L⊙ = 1011.3). ESO 320-G030 is a double-barred isolated spiral, but its compact and obscured nuclear starburst (SFR ∼ 15 M⊙ yr−1; AV ∼ 40 mag) resembles those of ultra-luminous infrared galaxies (LIR/L⊙ > 1012). In the outflow, the CO(1–0)/CO(2–1) ratio is enhanced with respect to the rest of the galaxy and the CO(4–3) transition is undetected. This indicates that the outflowing molecular gas is less excited than the molecular gas in the nuclear starburst (i.e., outflow launching site) and in the galaxy disk. Non-local thermodynamic equilibrium radiative transfer modeling reveals that the properties of the molecular clouds in the outflow differ from those of the nuclear and disk clouds: The kinetic temperature is lower (Tkin ∼ 9 K) in the outflow, and the outflowing clouds have lower column densities. Assuming a 10−4 CO abundance, the large internal velocity gradients, 60−45+250 km s−1 pc−1, imply that the outflowing molecular clouds are not bound by self-gravity. All this suggests that the life-cycle (formation, collapse, dissipation) of the galaxy disk molecular clouds might differ from that of the outflowing molecular clouds which might not be able to form stars. The low kinetic temperature of the molecular outflow remains constant at radial distances between 0.3 and 1.7 kpc. This indicates that the heating by the hotter ionized outflow phase is not efficient and may favor the survival of the molecular gas phase in the outflow. The spatially resolved velocity structure of the outflow shows a 0.8 km s−1 pc−1 velocity gradient between 190 pc and 560 pc and then a constant maximum outflow velocity of about 700–800 km s−1 up to 1.7 kpc. This could be compatible with a pure gravitational evolution of the outflow, which would require coupled variations of the mass outflow rate and the outflow launching velocity distribution. Alternatively, a combination of ram pressure acceleration and cloud evaporation could explain the observed kinematics and the total size of the cold molecular phase of the outflow.
Effect of coronal loop structure on wave heating through phase mixing
Authors: Pagano P. , De Moortel I. , Morton R. J.
Published: September 2020

Context. The mechanism(s) behind coronal heating still elude(s) direct observation and modelling of viable theoretical processes and the subsequent effect on coronal structures is one of the key tools available to assess possible heating mechanisms. Wave heating via the phase mixing of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) transverse waves has been proposed as a possible way to convert magnetic energy into thermal energy, but MHD models increasingly suggest this is not an efficient enough mechanism.

Aims. We modelled heating by phase mixing transverse MHD waves in various configurations in order to investigate whether certain circumstances can enhance the heating sufficiently to sustain the million degree solar corona and to assess the impact of the propagation and phase mixing of transverse MHD waves on the structure of the boundary shell of coronal loops.

Methods. We used 3D MHD simulations of a pre-existing density enhancement in a magnetised medium and a boundary driver to trigger the propagation of transverse waves with the same power spectrum as measured by the Coronal Multi-Channel Polarimeter. We consider different density structures, boundary conditions at the non-drive footpoint, characteristics of the driver, and different forms of magnetic resistivity.

Results. We find that different initial density structures significantly affect the evolution of the boundary shell and that some driver configurations can enhance the heating generated from the dissipation of the MHD waves. In particular, drivers coherent on a larger spatial scale and higher dissipation coefficients can generate significant heating, although it is still insufficient to balance the radiative losses in this setup.

Conclusions. We conclude that while phase mixing of transverse MHD waves is unlikely to sustain the thermal structure of the corona, there are configurations that allow for an enhanced efficiency of this mechanism. We provide possible signatures to identify the presence of such configurations, such as the location of where the heating is deposited along the coronal loop.
Regional floras: increasing their value while reducing their cost
Authors: Barkworth Mary E. , Olonova Marina V. , Gudkova Polina D. , Ullah Zahid , Dyreson Curtis
Published: September 2020

Regional floras are primary resources for plant identification, an essential step in developing conservation strategies. They also provide students with a scientific window on the plants around them and help them learn botanical terminology, but they are expensive to maintain and publish. We are developing web-accessible updates for different floras, as part of which we are using online resources to help us work more effectively while rapidly providing richer resources. We use Key Base for sharing dichotomous keys, linking the terminal taxa to subsidiary keys or descriptive taxon pages. Taxon pages are generated in OpenHerbarium which enables integrating specimen and observation data with descriptions, line drawings, and images and displaying maps based on georeferenced specimen data. Its nomenclatural backbone is easily modified to reflect new treatment and can also handle multiple taxonomies. We are examining is the possibility of using a Wikipedia approach to provide a glossary.
Western thuja (Thuja occidentalis L.): introduction in Siberia and use of nanoparticles in increasing the green cuttings rhizogenic activity
Authors: Bopp Valentina , Mistrartova Natalia , Gurevich Yuri
Published: September 2020

Western thuja (Thuja occidentalis L.) as a representative of evergreen coniferous species is of particular importance in the landscape gardening of urbanized territories in Siberia. An integral assessment of the introduction prospects based on the study of winter hardiness, regularity of shoots growth in height and other parameters showed that Western thuja in the soil and climatic conditions of Krasnoyarsk belongs to a promising taxon (86 points out of 105). For the purpose of widespread use of the introduced plant in the landscape gardeningpractice, a method for increasing the rooting capacity of Western thuja green cuttings is proposed. Soaking green cuttings in a solution of indolyl-3-acetic acid with citric acid and adding nanoparticles of biogenic ferrihydrite doped with aluminum increases the rhizogenesis of the cuttings material by 10-20%.
On SU(3)F positive-parity octet and decuplet baryons
Authors: Chen Chen
Published: September 2020

A continuum approach to the three valence-quark bound-state problem in quantum field theory, employing parametrisations of the necessary kernel elements, is used to compute the spectrum and Poincarö- covariant wave functions for all flavour-SU(3) octet and decuplet baryons and their first positive-parity ex citations. Such analyses predict the existence of nonpointlike, dynamical quark-quark (diquark) correlations within all baryons; and a uniformly sound description of the systems studied is obtained by retaining flavour- antitriplet-scalar and flavour-sextet-pseudovector diquarks. The analysis predicts the existence of positive- parity excitations of the 𝚵, 𝚵*, Ω baryons, with masses, respectively (in GeV): 1.84(08), 1.89(04), 2.05(02). These states have not yet been empirically identified. This body of analysis suggests that the expression of emergent mass generation is the same in all u, d, s baryons and, notably, that dynamical quark-quark correla tions play an essential role in the structure of each one. It also provides the basis for developing an array of predictions that can be tested in new generation experiments.
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii among healthy blood donors in two locations in Tunisia and associated risk factors
Authors: Lachkhem Arwa , Lahmar Ibtissem , Galal Lokman , Babba Oussama , Mezhoud Habib , Hassine Mohssen , Lachkhem Ahmed , Dardé Marie-Laure , Mercier Aurélien , Babba Hamouda
Published: September 2020

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that can be transmitted to humans through a variety of routes including blood transfusion. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and associated risk factors in healthy blood donors in Tunisia. A total of 800 healthy blood donors from two blood centers in south and coastal Tunisia were analyzed for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISA), respectively. Structured questionnaires were used to gather information on risk factors for T. gondii infection during collection. The overall seroprevalence was 44.4% of which 352 (44%) and 3 (0.4%) were positive for IgG and both IgG and IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that T. gondii seropositivity was significantly associated with the birth place (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.72; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49–4.94) and the age of the donors (adjusted OR = 4.98; 95% CI: 1.50–16.58) which are independent risk factors. In addition, the variables of hand washing before eating (adjusted OR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.37–0.74) and living in an urban environment (adjusted OR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.13–0.71) are two protective factors. This study provided the first data on the seroprevalence and epidemiology of T. gondii infection in healthy blood donors in Tunisia.
Coinfection of HIV and hepatitis C increases complication rates after total joint arthroplasty
Authors: Fang Christopher , Cornell Ella , Dicken Quinten , Freccero David , Mattingly David , Smith Eric L.
Published: September 2020

Introduction: As advances in efficacy of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis-C virus (HCV) anti-viral medications increase, patients are able to maintain higher quality of lives than ever before. While these patients live longer lives, the unique patient population of those co-infected with both HIV and HCV increases. As these older patients seek orthopaedic care, it is important to understand their unique outcome profile. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the complication rate after total joint arthroplasty (TJA) in patients with HIV and HCV coinfection compared with patients with HIV or HCV only. Methods: A retrospective review of patients undergoing primary total joint arthroplasty (TJA) at our urban, academic hospital between April 2016 and April 2019 was conducted. Patients were stratified into three groups according to viral status: HIV only, HCV only, or HIV and HCV coinfection. Baseline demographics, intravenous drug (IV) use, surgery type, CD4+ count, follow-up and complications were analysed. Results: Of the 133 patients included in the study, 28 had HIV, 88 had HCV and 17 were coinfected with both HIV and HCV. Coinfected patients were more likely to have a lower BMI (p < 0.039) and a history of IV drug use (p < 0.018) compared to patients with either HIV or HCV only. Coinfected patients had a higher complication rate (41%) than both HIV only (7%; p < 0.001) and HCV only (12.5%; p < 0.001) patients. Discussion: Patients coinfected with HIV and HCV undergoing TJA have a higher complication rate than patients with either infection alone. As this unique population of coinfected patients continues to expand, increasingly they will be under the care of arthroplasty surgeons. Improved awareness and understanding of the baseline demographic differences between these patients is paramount. Recognition of the increased complication rates grants the opportunity to improve their orthopaedic care through preoperative and multidisciplinary management.
A novel technique for mapping biopsy of bile duct cancer
Authors: Okada Hirokazu , Uza Norimitsu , Matsumori Tomoaki , Matsumoto Shimpei , Muramoto Yuya , Ota Sakiko , Nakamura Takeharu , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Hirano Tomonori , Kuwada Takeshi , Marui Saiko , Sogabe Yuko , Morita Toshihiro , Kakiuchi Nobuyuki , Mima Atsushi , Ueda Tatsuki , Nishikawa Yoshihiro , Tsuda Motoyuki , Maruno Takahisa , Shiokawa Masahiro , Takahashi Ken , Taura Kojiro , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Kodama Yuzo , Seno Hiroshi
Published: September 2020

Background Accurate preoperative assessment of the longitudinal extension of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC) is essential for treatment planning. Mapping biopsies for PHCC remain challenging owing to technical difficulties and insufficient sample amounts. The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of a novel technique for mapping biopsies of PHCC.

Methods Our novel method focused on a biliary stent delivery system for mapping biopsies. Fifty patients with PHCC undergoing endoscopic transpapillary mapping biopsy using the novel method were reviewed from August 2015 to June 2019.

Results The median number of biopsy samples was six (range 1 – 17), and the rate of adequate sampling was 91.4 % (266 /291). Biopsy from the intrahepatic bile duct was possible in 82.0 % of patients (41 /50), and negative margins were confirmed in the resected specimens from 34 /39 patients who underwent surgery (87.2 %). None of the patients had post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis.

Conclusions With our novel method, accurate assessment of the longitudinal extension of PHCC might be expected with minimal trauma to the duodenal papilla.
Promising Medicinal Plants with Diuretic Potential Used in Brazil: State of the Art, Challenges, and Prospects
Authors: de Souza Priscila , Mariano Luísa Nathália Bolda , Cechinel-Zanchett Camile Cecconi , Cechinel-Filho Valdir
Published: September 2020

Medicinal plants are used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. The knowledge of them is handed down from generation to generation and is described in several pharmacopoeia and in the general literature. The immense biodiversity of the Brazilian flora, covering about 25% of all plant species worldwide, makes Brazil a huge potential source of medicinal plants. Indeed, many of these plant species are already used in the Brazilian ethnopharmacology for their probable effect to induce diuresis, to reduce fluid retention, and to treat cardiovascular and renal disorders. This review article describes and discusses the main native Brazilian medicinal plants (including some of their isolated compounds) used as diuretics. It also gives a comprehensive analysis of the most relevant scientific studies presented to date, as well as addressing a special topic with future prospects for plant species that have not yet been scientifically studied. In brief, several
plants can be indicated for more detailed study, with a view to obtain scientific subsidies for a new and effective diuretic medicine in the future. These include Bauhinia forficata, Leandra dasytricha, and Tropaeolum majus. Other species have reputed medicinal properties but lack experimental assays to demonstrate their pharmacological effects (e.g., Mikania hirsutissima, Phyllanthus niruri, and Tagetes minuta). Several active principles are indicated as responsible for the diuretic effects of the plants studied, with emphasis on phenolic compounds as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and xanthones. These results should encourage more detailed preclinical, clinical, and phytochemical investigations on Brazilian plants in the future.
Cytoreductive Surgery Combined with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Yano Hideaki
Published: September 2020

Peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer (PM-CRC) is used to be considered a systemic and fatal condition; however, it has been growingly accepted that PM-CRC can still be local disease rather than systemic disease as analogous to liver or lung metastasis.

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is now considered an optimal treatment for PM-CRC with accumulating evidence. There is a good reason that CRS + HIPEC, widely accepted as a standard of care for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP), could be a viable option for PM-CRC given a similarity between PM-CRC and PMP.

Recent years have also seen that modern systemic chemotherapy with or without molecular targeted agents can be effective for PM-CRC. It is possible that neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy combined with CRS + HIPEC could further improve outcomes.

Patient selection, utilizing modern images and increasingly laparoscopy, is crucial. Particularly, diagnostic laparoscopy is likely to play a significant role in predicting the likelihood of achieving complete cytoreduction and assessing the peritoneal cancer index score.
Transplant Renal Artery Stenosis Revascularization: Common Distal External Iliac Bypass
Authors: Miyara Santiago J. , Ortiz Christopher C. , Guevara Sara , Molmenti Alexia , Tamayo-Enriquez Gerardo , Cho Young Min , Cagliani Joaquin A. , Molinas Jorge , Hayashida Kei , Shinozaki Koichiro , Takegawa Ryosuke , Krishnasastry K. V. , Becker Lance B. , Molmenti Ernesto P.
Published: September 2020

Stenosis proximal to transplant renal artery anastomoses are complications leading to allograft dysfunction. This study was aimed to evaluate a novel surgical approach to renal allograft revascularization, taking into consideration the length of time elapsed since transplantation. We describe an arterial bypass using a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft from the common iliac artery (proximal to the renal artery implantation) to the external iliac artery (distal to the renal artery implantation) that allows the adequate revascularization of both the transplant kidney, as well as the lower extremity. This technique provides several advantages when compared with previously described procedures to revascularize a transplanted kidney with an iliac artery stenosis proximal to the allograft implantation site. Benefits of this technique include (1) no need to repair the stenosis, (2) no need to take down and redo the arterial anastomosis, (3) no need to perform a dissection around the renal hilum of the transplanted kidney, (4) no requirement to address the anastomosis transfer, and (5) no need to perfuse the kidney with preservation fluid at the time of repair and/or (6) avoidance of potential injury to the renal parenchyma and/or hilum during dissections. Adequate perfusion of the organ, as well as of the lower extremity was verified by serial Doppler duplex ultrasound evaluations. Hence, we describe a novel revascularization technique in instances of kidney transplant and lower extremity ischemia.
Mepivacaine Spinal Anesthesia Facilitates Shorter Lengths of Stay and Fewer Urinary Complications in Total Hip Arthroplasty Compared to Bupivacaine
Authors: Shaw Jonathan H. , Mahan M. Chad , Jabara Justin , Jildeh Toufic R. , Davis Jason J.
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study was to compare the shorter-acting spinal anesthetic mepivacaine versus bupivacaine in total hip arthroplasty (THA). We retrospectively reviewed a prospectively collected database from a single surgeon's contemporary cohort of 311 consecutive patients undergoing primary THA. Primary outcomes were urinary retention, length of stay (LOS), neuraxial complications, pain control, and opioid consumption. Statistical analysis with univariate logistic regression was performed followed by a multivariate analysis controlling for multiple factors to evaluate the effect of anesthetic on primary outcomes. The univariate analysis demonstrated those with mepivacaine required less postoperative catheterization (0.0 vs. 5.7%, p = 0.009). Multivariate analysis exhibited that the mepivacaine group had a higher average opioid requirement (morphine equivalence [MEQ] 0.64 ± 0.22 vs. 1.17 ± 0.23; p < 0.001), similar average pain scores (visual analog scale 1.96 ± 0.24 vs. 2.65 ± 0.25), a lower LOS (0.90 ± 0.15 vs. 1.19 ± 0.15, p < 0.001), and an almost 10 times higher chance for a same-day discharge (odds ratio 9.67, 3.72–25.15, p < 0.001). There were no neuraxial complications in either group and no need for conversion to general anesthesia with the shorter-acting mepivacaine. Mepivacaine for spinal anesthesia with THA produced a significant improvement in recovery time with less urinary complications, a shorter LOS, and a higher chance of same-day discharge. Pain was well controlled in both groups with slightly increased pain and MEQ in the early postoperative period.
Perforator-Pedicled Propeller Flaps for Lower Extremity Reconstruction
Authors: Ellabban Mohamed A. , Awad Ahmed I. , Hallock Geoffrey G.
Published: September 2020

Reconstruction of the lower extremity is considered a major challenge due to frequent bone exposure and the absence of local tissue redundancy, as well as often due to the presence of vascular insufficiency. Many surgeons have preferred free flaps especially for reconstructing the more distal lower limb defects until the evolution of pedicled perforator flaps and propeller flaps in particular provided a like-with-like reconstruction of the lower extremity without affecting the main vessels of the limb or the underlying muscles, and without the risk of any microanastomosis especially in patients with multiple comorbidities. Perforator-pedicled propeller flaps as local flaps in the lower extremity are best suited for small- and medium-sized defects with minimal donor-site morbidity, regardless of the cause of the defect. Any of the three source vessels of the leg can provide reliable perforators for propeller flap coverage of the distal leg and foot. The three main risk factors that are relative contraindications may be advanced age, diabetes mellitus, and atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease.
Epidemiology, Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management of Venous Thromboembolism in Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Chapin William J. , Sudheendra Preeti , Goity Luis , Sudheendra Deepak
Published: September 2020

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of cardiovascular death and is associated with significant morbidity. Patients with cancer, and gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies in particular, are at increased risk of VTE, increased risk of bleeding with VTE treatment, and increased risk of recurrent VTE compared with the general population. VTE has been shown to be a leading cause of death among patients with cancer. This review will discuss special considerations in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of VTE in patients with GI malignancies. Given the increased risk of VTE observed in ambulatory patients with GI malignancies, multiple trials have examined and demonstrated the efficacy of prophylactic anticoagulation in high-risk patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, particularly in patients with gastric and pancreatic cancers. Patients with GI malignancies have also played a central role in discussions of the risks and benefits of the use of direct oral anticoagulants in patients with cancers, with first-line anticoagulation options expanding to include low-molecular-weight heparin, rivaroxaban, edoxaban, and apixaban. However, there continue to be concerns regarding an increased risk of bleeding with edoxaban and rivaroxaban in patients with GI malignancies. In addition to anticoagulation, individualized risk and benefit analysis should be undertaken for interventions including inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement and catheter-directed thrombolysis in the setting of increased risk of bleeding and recurrent VTE for patients with GI malignancies. Several unique scenarios that may be seen with GI malignancies, including incidental VTE, splanchnic vein thrombosis, IVC thrombosis, and iliac vein compression, require individualized decision making.
Mortality Rate and Prognostic Factors in Neonatal Tetanus: A 3-Year Analysis of Cases Presented to Turkey-Somalia Mogadishu Training and Research Hospital
Authors: Güdeloğlu Elif , Demirel Mustafa Enes
Published: September 2020

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate mortality rate and prognostic factors in neonatal tetanus cases presented to Turkey-Somalia Mogadishu Training and Research Hospital.

Methods A total of 35 neonatal tetanus cases presented to Turkey-Somalia Mogadishu Training and Research Hospital between 2014 and 2017 were included in this prospective observational study. Data on demographic, clinical and maternal obstetric characteristics, and laboratory findings including complete blood count and blood biochemistry were recorded in each patient. Study parameters were evaluated with respect to survivorship status, while multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine independent predictors of increased mortality risk.

Results Overall, mortality occurred in 22 (62.9%) of 35 neonates diagnosed with neonatal tetanus. Tetanus prophylaxis was absent in the majority of neonates, regardless of survivorship status (100.0% in nonsurvivors vs. 84.6% in survivors, p = 0.131). In nonsurvivor versus survivor groups, significantly higher likelihood of constipation (50.0 vs. 7.7%, p = 0.002), contracture (81.8 vs. 46.2%, p = 0.035), and ventilator support (95.4 vs. 53.8%, p = 0.006) as well as significantly lower hemoglobin (14.45 ± 2.06 vs. 17.15 ± 1.77, p = 0.003) and potassium (3.50 ± 0.86 vs. 4.14 ± 0.93, p = 0.003) levels and neutrophil (3.34 ± 1.75 vs. 4.47 ± 1.08, p = 0.047, white blood cell (WBC) (5.54 ± 2.30 vs. 7.78 ± 1.70, p = 0.003) and platelet (median [min-max] 133.5 [68–332] vs. 196 [123–550], p = 0.006) counts were noted. Presence of contracture (odds ratio [OR]: 14.525, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.398–150.870, p = 0.025) and ventilator support (OR: 22.282, 95% CI: 1.269–391.131, p = 0.034) was the independent determinants of increased risk of mortality.

Conclusion Our findings emphasize high mortality in neonatal tetanus cases in Somalia along with lack of maternal tetanus prophylaxis in majority of cases. Presence of contractures and ventilator support were significant determinants of poor survival, while factors such as constipation, lower hemoglobin, and potassium levels and lower neutrophil, WBC and platelet counts were also more common among nonsurvivors, albeit not found to be associated with mortality risk in the multivariate analysis.
Mechanism of Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Using a Bio 3D Conduit Derived from Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Yurie Hirofumi , Ikeguchi Ryosuke , Aoyama Tomoki , Ito Akira , Tanaka Mai , Noguchi Takashi , Oda Hiroki , Takeuchi Hisataka , Mitsuzawa Sadaki , Ando Maki , Yoshimoto Koichi , Akieda Shizuka , Nakayama Koichi , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: September 2020

Background We previously reported the development of a scaffold-free Bio three-dimensional (3D) nerve conduit from normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). The aim of this study was to investigate the regenerative mechanism of peripheral nerve cells using a Bio 3D conduit in a rat sciatic nerve defect model.

Methods Bio 3D conduits composed of NHDFs were developed, and cell viability was evaluated using a LIVE/DEAD cell viability assay immediately before transplantation and 1-week post-surgery. Tracking analysis using PKH26-labeled NHDFs was performed to assess the distribution of NHDFs within the regenerated nerve and the differentiation of NHDFs into functional Schwann cells (SCs).

Results The assessment of the viability of cells within the Bio 3D conduit showed high cell viability both immediately before transplantation and 1-week post-surgery (88.56 ± 1.70 and 87.58 ± 9.11, respectively). A modified Masson's trichrome staining of the Bio 3D conduit revealed the formation of a prominent extracellular matrix (ECM) in between the cells. We observed, via tracking analysis, that the tube-like distribution of the NHDFs remained stable, the majority of the regenerated axons had penetrated this structure and PKH26-labeled cells were also positive for S-100.

Conclusion Abundant ECM formation resulted in a stable tube-like structure of the Bio 3D conduit with high cell viability. NHDFs in the Bio 3D conduit have the potential to differentiate into SCs-like cells.
Decision to Incision and Risk for Fetal Acidemia, Low Apgar Scores, and Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Bousleiman Sabine , Rouse Dwight J. , Gyamfi-Bannerman Cynthia , Huang Yongmei , D'Alton Mary E. , Siddiq Zainab , Wright Jason D. , Friedman Alexander M.
Published: September 2020

Objective This study aimed to assess risk for fetal acidemia, low Apgar scores, and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy based on decision-to-incision time interval in the setting of emergency cesarean delivery.

Study Design This unplanned secondary analysis of the Maternal–Fetal Medicine Units prospective observational cesarean registry dataset evaluated risk for hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, umbilical cord pH ≤7.0, and Apgar score ≤4 at 5 minutes based on decision-to-incision time for emergency cesarean deliveries. Cesarean occurring for nonreassuring fetal heart rate monitoring, bleeding previa, nonreassuring antepartum testing, placental abruption, or cord prolapse was classified as emergent. Decision-to-incision time was categorized as <10 minutes, 10 to <20 minutes, 20 to <30 minutes, 30 to <50 minutes, or ≥50 minutes. As secondary outcomes umbilical cord pH ≤7.1, umbilical artery pH ≤7.0, and Apgar score ≤5 at 5 minutes were analyzed.

Results Of 5,784 women included in the primary analysis, 12.4% had a decision-to-incision interval ≤10 minutes, 20.2% 11 to 20 minutes, 14.9% 21 to 30 minutes, 18.2% 31 to 50 minutes, and 16.5% >50 minutes. Risk for umbilical cord pH ≤7.0 was highest at ≤10 and 11 to 20 minutes (10.2 and 7.9%, respectively), and lowest at 21 to 30 minutes (3.9%), 31 to 50 minutes (3.9%), and >50 minutes (3.5%) (p < 0.01). Risk for Apgar scores ≤4 at 5 minutes was also higher with decision-to-incision intervals ≤10 and 11 to 20 minutes (4.3 and 4.4%, respectively) compared with intervals of 21 to 30 minutes (1.7%), 31 to 50 minutes (2.1%), and >50 minutes (2.0%) (p < 0.01). Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy occurred in 1.5 and 1.0% of women with decision-to-incision intervals of ≤10 and 11 to 20 minutes compared with 0.3 and 0.5% for women with decision-to-incision intervals of 21 to 30 minutes and 31 to 50 minutes (p = 0.04). Risk for secondary outcomes was also higher with shorter decision-to-incision intervals.

Conclusion Shorter decision-to-incision times were associated with increased risk for adverse outcomes in the setting of emergency cesarean.

Key Points
Phobia: a corpus study of political diagnostics
Authors: Buts Jan
Published: September 2020

This article is a rhetorical corpus study of the use of-phobiain online alternative media. The term phobia is used in the psychiatric domain to refer to a range of anxiety disorders, but is now also commonly used to identify social tensions. Terms such as transphobia and Islamophobia have within a few decades become central to contemporary political debate. The article examines in what way such coinages are used in a variety of online publications, and thus seeks to contribute to a better understanding of the entanglement of political and medical vocabulary. The study is based on data from the Genealogies of Knowledge Internet corpus, which are analysed in terms of collocation and other forms of linguistic patterning. The analysis reveals that online articles situated on the left of the political spectrum contain a large number of formulaic but open-ended lists of socio-political phobias, supplemented with other other undesirable attitudes such as sexism and racism. The article further reflects on the connections between the rhetoric of listing and intersectional analysis, on cultural conceptions of pathology, and on the polarised alignment of attitudes towards scientific and political issues in today’s public debate.
Material platforms for defect qubits and single-photon emitters
Authors: Zhang Gang , Cheng Yuan , Chou Jyh-Pin , Gali Adam
Published: September 2020

Quantum technology has grown out of quantum information theory and now provides a valuable tool that researchers from numerous fields can add to their toolbox of research methods. To date, various systems have been exploited to promote the application of quantum information processing. The systems that can be used for quantum technology include superconducting circuits, ultracold atoms, trapped ions, semiconductor quantum dots, and solid-state spins and emitters. In this review, we will discuss the state-of-the-art of material platforms for spin-based quantum technology, with a focus on the progress in solid-state spins and emitters in several leading host materials, including diamond, silicon carbide, boron nitride, silicon, two-dimensional semiconductors, and other materials. We will highlight how first-principles calculations can serve as an exceptionally robust tool for finding novel defect qubits and single-photon emitters in solids, through detailed predictions of electronic, magnetic, and optical properties.
Optimal current shell approximation for solenoids of rectangular cross-section
Authors: Husa Paige L. , Saunders Brandon D. , Suesser Brooke E. , Petruska Andrew J.
Published: September 2020

The manipulation of magnetic objects using variable magnetic fields is a growing field of study with a variety of applications. Many magnetic manipulation systems use multiple electromagnets to generate magnetic fields. To control objects in real time, it is necessary to have a computationally efficient method of calculating the field produced by each solenoid anywhere in space. This paper presents a procedure to replace a real cylindrical solenoid of rectangular cross section with infinitely thin shells and rings that generate an equivalent magnetic field. The best approximation for a real solenoid is determined by its physical characteristics. The field produced by these idealized shapes can be calculated expediently using elliptic integrals as can the field gradient and higher-order derivatives. We find that for most real solenoids, the error in the magnetic field approximation is at most 2.5% at a 50% offset and in most cases is much less.