bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chitosan promoting formononetin and calycosin accumulation in Astragalus membranaceus hairy root cultures via mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling cascades
Authors: Gai Qing-Yan , Jiao Jiao , Wang Xin , Liu Jing , Wang Zi-Ying , Fu Yu-Jie
Published: July 2019

Chitosan, behaving as a potent biotic elicitor, can induce plant defense response with the consequent enhancement in phytoalexin accumulation. Accordingly, chitosan elicitation was conducted to promote the production of two phytoalexins, i.e. formononetin and calycosin (also known as health-promoting isoflavones), in Astragalus membranaceus hairy root cultures (AMHRCs). Compared with control, 12.45- and 6.17-fold increases in the yields of formononetin (764.19 ± 50.81 μg/g DW) and calycosin (611.53 ± 42.22 μg/g DW) were obtained in 34 day-old AMHRCs treated by 100 mg/L of chitosan for 24 h, respectively. Moreover, chitosan elicitation could cause oxidative burst that would induce the expression of genes (MPK3 and MPK6) related to mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling (MAPK) cascades, which contributed to the transcriptional activation of pathogenesis-related genes (β-1,3-glucanase, Chitinase, and PR-1) and eight biosynthesis genes involved in the calycosin and formononetin pathway. Overall, the findings in this work not only highlight a feasible chitosan elicitation practice to enhance the in vitro production of two bioactive isoflavones for nutraceutical and food applications, but also contribute to understanding the phytoalexin biosynthesis in response to chitosan elicitation.
Evaluation of genetic susceptibility between systemic lupus erythematosus and GRB2 gene
Authors: Xu Meifeng , Liu Yan , Li Xiaoli , Cheng Chuantao , Liu Yale , Dong Wei , Du Shaoyi , Xiao Shengxiang
Published: July 2019

Multiple lines of evidence have shown that systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is attributable to both genetic and environmental factors. The product of GRB2 is a key factor in the activation of B cells and has been reported to be significantly associated with SLE in European populations. In the study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between GRB2 and SLE. A total of 1,710 Han Chinese women comprising 567 SLE patients and 1,143 controls were recruited to genotype 20 selected tagging SNPs. We tested the potential association between 13 clinical variables of SLE and the significant polymorphisms related to SLE. The eQTL data were extracted from the GTEx database to examine the functional consequences of the targeted SNPs. A significant association signal was identified between rs36023980 and SLE in both genotypic and allelic analyses (OR = 0.61, P = 0.0003). Complement inhibition was shown to be significantly associated with the genotypes of SNP rs36023980 in SLE patients (Pgenotype = 0.003). Further stratification analyses showed that the genetic association signal of SNP rs36023980 on SLE could only be identified in cases with complement inhibition. SNP rs36023980 was also identified to be significantly associated with the expression of GRB2 in whole blood and sun-exposed skin. In conclusion, our findings confirm the results from the previous GWAS and are the first to report the association of GRB2 with SLE in Han Chinese population.
Changes in nuclear and cytoplasmic microRNA distribution in response to hypoxic stress
Authors: Turunen Tiia A. , Roberts Thomas C. , Laitinen Pia , Väänänen Mari-Anna , Korhonen Paula , Malm Tarja , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo , Turunen Mikko P.
Published: July 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that have well-characterized roles in cytoplasmic gene regulation, where they act by binding to mRNA transcripts and inhibiting their translation (i.e. post-transcriptional gene silencing, PTGS). However, miRNAs have also been implicated in transcriptional gene regulation and alternative splicing, events that are restricted to the cell nucleus. Here we performed nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation in a mouse endothelial cell line and characterized the localization of miRNAs in response to hypoxia using small RNA sequencing. A highly diverse population of abundant miRNA species was detected in the nucleus, of which the majority (56%) was found to be preferentially localized in one compartment or the other. Induction of hypoxia resulted in changes in miRNA levels in both nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments, with the majority of changes being restricted to one location and not the other. Notably, the classical hypoxamiR (miR-210-3p) was highly up-regulated in the nuclear compartment after hypoxic stimulus. These findings reveal a previously unappreciated level of molecular complexity in the physiological response occurring in ischemic tissue. Furthermore, widespread differential miRNA expression in the nucleus strongly suggests that these small RNAs are likely to perform extensive nuclear regulatory functions in the general case.
DNA damage induction during localized chronic exposure to an insoluble radioactive microparticle
Authors: Matsuya Yusuke , Satou Yukihiko , Hamada Nobuyuki , Date Hiroyuki , Ishikawa Masayori , Sato Tatsuhiko
Published: July 2019

Insoluble radioactive microparticles emitted by the incident at the Fukushima nuclear power plant have drawn keen interests from the viewpoint of radiation protection. Cs-bearing particles have been assumed to adhere in the long term to trachea after aspirated into respiratory system, leading to heterogeneous dose distribution within healthy tissue around the particles. However, the biological effects posed by an insoluble radioactive particle remain unclear. Here, we show cumulative DNA damage in normal human lung cells proximal and distal to the particle (β-ray and γ-ray-dominant areas, respectively) under localized chronic exposure in comparison with uniform exposure. We put a Cs-bearing particle into a microcapillary tip and placed it onto a glass-base dish containing fibroblast or epithelial cells cultured in vitro. A Monte Carlo simulation with PHITS code provides the radial distribution of absorbed dose-rate around the particle, and subsequently we observed a significant change in nuclear γ-H2AX foci after 24 h or 48 h exposure to the particle. The nuclear foci in the cells distal to the particle increased even under low-dose-rate exposure compared with uniform exposure to 137Cs γ-rays, which was suppressed by a treatment with a scavenger of reactive oxygen species. In contrast, such focus formation was less manifested in the exposed cells proximal to the particle compared with uniform exposure. These data suggest that the localized exposure to a Cs-bearing particle leads to not only disadvantage to distal cells but also advantage to proximal cells. This study is the first to provide quantitative evaluation for the spatial distribution of DNA double strand breaks after the heterogeneous chronic exposure to a Cs-bearing particle in comparison with uniform Cs exposure.
Proteogenomic Analysis of Protein Sequence Alterations in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Lazar Iulia M. , Karcini Arba , Ahuja Shreya , Estrada-Palma Carly
Published: July 2019

Cancer evolves as a result of an accumulation of mutations and chromosomal aberrations. Developments in sequencing technologies have enabled the discovery and cataloguing of millions of such mutations. The identification of protein-level alterations, typically by using reversed-phase protein arrays or mass spectrometry, has lagged, however, behind gene and transcript-level observations. In this study, we report the use of mass spectrometry for detecting the presence of mutations-missense, indels and frame shifts-in MCF7 and SKBR3 breast cancer, and non-tumorigenic MCF10A cells. The mutations were identified by expanding the database search process of raw mass spectrometry files by including an in-house built database of mutated peptides (XMAn-v1) that complemented a minimally redundant, canonical database of Homo sapiens proteins. The work resulted in the identification of nearly 300 mutated peptide sequences, of which ~50 were characterized by quality tandem mass spectra. We describe the criteria that were used to select the mutated peptide sequences, evaluate the parameters that characterized these peptides, and assess the artifacts that could have led to false peptide identifications. Further, we discuss the functional domains and biological processes that may be impacted by the observed peptide alterations, and how protein-level detection can support the efforts of identifying cancer driving mutations and genes. Mass spectrometry data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD014458.
Extreme wet and dry conditions affected differently by greenhouse gases and aerosols
Authors: Sillmann Jana , Stjern Camilla W. , Myhre Gunnar , Samset Bjørn H. , Hodnebrog Øivind , Andrews Timothy , Boucher Olivier , Faluvegi Gregory , Forster Piers , Kasoar Matthew R. , Kharin Viatcheslav V. , Kirkevåg Alf , Lamarque Jean-Francois , Olivié Dirk J. L. , Richardson Thomas B. , Shindell Drew , Takemura Toshihiko , Voulgarakis Apostolos , Zwiers Francis W.
Published: July 2019

Global warming due to greenhouse gases and atmospheric aerosols alter precipitation rates, but the influence on extreme precipitation by aerosols relative to greenhouse gases is still not well known. Here we use the simulations from the Precipitation Driver and Response Model Intercomparison Project that enable us to compare changes in mean and extreme precipitation due to greenhouse gases with those due to black carbon and sulfate aerosols, using indicators for dry extremes as well as for moderate and very extreme precipitation. Generally, we find that the more extreme a precipitation event is, the more pronounced is its response relative to global mean surface temperature change, both for aerosol and greenhouse gas changes. Black carbon (BC) stands out with distinct behavior and large differences between individual models. Dry days become more frequent with BC-induced warming compared to greenhouse gases, but so does the intensity and frequency of extreme precipitation. An increase in sulfate aerosols cools the surface and thereby the atmosphere, and thus induces a reduction in precipitation with a stronger effect on extreme than on mean precipitation. A better understanding and representation of these processes in models will provide knowledge for developing strategies for both climate change and air pollution mitigation.
A selective and robust UPLC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantitative determination of anlotinib, ceritinib and ibrutinib in rat plasma and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Du Ping , Guan Yin , An Zhuoling , Li Pengfei , Liu Lihong
Published: July 2019

A selective, robust ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method was developed for the first time for the simultaneous determination of next-generation antitumor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in rat plasma using protein precipitation extraction.
Ultra-small biocompatible jujube polysaccharide stabilized platinum nanoclusters for glucose detection
Authors: Guo Xiaolei , Suo Yixing , Zhang Xuan , Cui Yanshuai , Chen Shengfu , Sun Haotian , Gao Dawei , Liu Zhiwei , Wang Longgang
Published: July 2019

Jujube polysaccharide-stabilized platinum nanoclusters were used for the sensitive detection of glucose concentrations in serum and saliva.
A more universal and stable method for lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme test
Authors: Li Peijuan , Qiu Nanhai , Zhang Li , Zhong Guishu , Zeng Fancai
Published: July 2019

As an important enzyme for energy metabolism, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and its isoenzymes (LDH isoenzymes) have been extensively studied.
Novel molecular triad exhibiting aggregation-induced emission and thermally activated fluorescence for efficient non-doped organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Kim Hyung Jong , Kim Seong Keun , Godumala Mallesham , Yoon Jiwon , Kim Chae Yeong , Jeong Ji-Eun , Woo Han Young , Kwon Jang Hyuk , Cho Min Ju , Choi Dong Hoon
Published: July 2019

A novel molecular triad single-component emitter (BPCP-2CPC) exhibiting TADF and AIE characteristics was successfully synthesized and applied to solution-processed non-doped TADF-OLEDs.
Spontaneous proton transfer in a series of amphoteric molecules under hydrostatic pressure
Authors: Yu Binhong , Wang Yi , Wang Lingrui , Tan Xiao , Zhang Yu-Mo , Wang Kai , Li Minjie , Zou Bo , Zhang Sean Xiao-An
Published: July 2019

Hydrostatic pressure has induced intermolecular proton transfer in the crystals of a series of amphoteric molecules, which results in significant color changes.
First-principles microkinetic study of methane and hydrogen sulfide catalytic conversion to methanethiol/dimethyl sulfide on Mo6S8 clusters: activity/selectivity of different promoters
Authors: Arvidsson Adam A. , Taifan William , Hellman Anders , Baltrusaitis Jonas
Published: July 2019

A large fraction of the global natural gas reserves is in the form of sour gas, i.e. contains hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon dioxide (CO2), and needs to be sweetened before utilization.
Controlling the secondary pollutant on B-doped g-C3N4 during photocatalytic NO removal: a combined DRIFTS and DFT investigation
Authors: Li Jiarui , Ran Maoxi , Chen Peng , Cui Wen , Li Jieyuan , Sun Yanjuan , Jiang Guangming , Zhou Ying , Dong Fan
Published: July 2019

The mechanisms of enhanced photocatalysis efficiency and suppression of toxic intermediate production during photocatalytic NO oxidation on B-doped g-C3N4 were revealed.
A cell-based screening system for RNA polymerase I inhibitors
Authors: Tan Xiao , Awuah Samuel G.
Published: July 2019

RNA polymerase I (RNA Pol I) is a “factory” that orchestrates the transcription of ribosomal RNA for constructing ribosomes as a primary workshop for protein translation to sustain cell growth.
Propagation of amorphous oxide nanowires via the VLS mechanism: growth kinetics
Authors: Shakthivel D. , Navaraj W. T. , Champet Simon , Gregory Duncan H. , Dahiya R. S.
Published: July 2019

The work reports the growth kinetics of amorphous nanowires (NWs) developed by Vapour–Liquid–Solid (VLS) mechanism.
Structures, relative stability and binding energies of neutral water clusters, (H2O)2–30
Authors: Malloum Alhadji , Fifen Jean Jules , Dhaouadi Zoubeida , Nana Engo Serge Guy , Conradie Jeanet
Published: July 2019

We have revised the structures of neutral water clusters, (H2O)n=2–30, with the affordable M06-2X functional, presenting up to 25 isomers for each cluster size.
Self-healing and shape-memory properties of polymeric materials cross-linked by hydrogen bonding and metal–ligand interactions
Authors: Kobayashi Yuichiro , Hirase Tomohiro , Takashima Yoshinori , Harada Akira , Yamaguchi Hiroyasu
Published: July 2019

Polymeric materials were prepared by cross-linking them with two independent non-covalent interactions, namely hydrogen bonding and metal–ligand interactions.
Optimization of oxygen evolution dynamics on RuO2via controlling of spontaneous dissociation equilibrium
Authors: Sun Yu , Yuan Long , Liu Zhongyuan , Wang Qiao , Huang Keke , Feng Shouhua
Published: July 2019

With precise control of reaction conditions, it is possible to accelerate the oxygen evolution kinetics through optimization of adsorption/dissociation equilibrium.
Application of the combination of ball-milling and hot-melt extrusion in the development of an amorphous solid dispersion of a poorly water-soluble drug with high melting point
Authors: Fan Wenling , Zhu Wenjing , Zhang Xinyi , Xu Yan , Di Liuqing
Published: July 2019

The aim of the study was to develop an amorphous solid dispersion of a poorly water-soluble drug with high melting point by ball milling and hot melt extrusion as a co-processing method.
PrP (58–93) peptide from unstructured N-terminal domain of human prion protein forms amyloid-like fibrillar structures in the presence of Zn2+ ions
Authors: Gielnik Maciej , Pietralik Zuzanna , Zhukov Igor , Szymańska Aneta , Kwiatek Wojciech M. , Kozak Maciej
Published: July 2019

Zinc ions modulate the aggregation of PrP (58–93) amyloid peptide.
A numerical simulation for magnetohydrodynamic nanofluid flow and heat transfer in rotating horizontal annulus with thermal radiation
Authors: Peng Yeping , Alsagri Ali Sulaiman , Afrand Masoud , Moradi R.
Published: July 2019

The impact of an axial magnetic field on the heat transfer and nanofluid flow among two horizontal coaxial tubes in the presence of thermal radiation was considered in this study.
Synthesis and properties of hyperbranched polymers for polymer light emitting devices with sunlight-style white emission
Authors: Wu Yuling , Wu Dongyu , Zhao Haocheng , Li Jie , Li Xuefeng , Wang Zhongqiang , Wang Hua , Zhu Furong , Xu Bingshe
Published: July 2019

A potential hyperbranched structure with fluorene-alt-carbazole branches, a 3D-structured SDF core, and green (CzhBrPI)2Ir(fpptz) and red Ir(piq)2acac adjusting light units is synthesized for efficient and stable sunlight-style white polymer light-emitting devices.
Kinetic hydricity of silane hydrides in the gas phase
Authors: Xu Jiahui , Krajewski Allison E. , Niu Yijie , Kiruba G. S. M. , Lee Jeehiun K.
Published: July 2019

Gas-phase experimental and computational methods reveal unknown intrinsic hydricity/nucleophilicity and electrophilicity parameters.
Rapid growth of large-area single-crystal graphene film by seamless stitching using resolidified copper foil on a molybdenum substrate
Authors: Cheng Yuan , Bi Hui , Che Xiangli , Zhao Wei , Li Dezeng , Huang Fuqiang
Published: July 2019

Single-crystal graphene film growth by the seamless stitching of highly oriented single-crystal graphene domains on a resolidified Cu (111) surface.
A novel magnesium electrolyte containing a magnesium bis(diisopropyl)amide–magnesium chloride complex for rechargeable magnesium batteries
Authors: Yang Yuanying , Qiu Yixiang , NuLi Yanna , Wang Weiqin , Yang Jun , Wang Jiulin
Published: July 2019

A novel magnesium electrolyte, containing magnesium bis(diisopropyl)amide–magnesium chloride complex with new active species [(C3H7)2N]MgCl2–MgCl, affords good compatibility with Mo6S8 and sulfur cathodes for rechargeable magnesium batteries.
Ultrapermeable graphene oxide membranes with tunable interlayer distancesviavein-like supramolecular dendrimers
Authors: Song Yimeng , Li Run , Pan Fusheng , He Ze , Yang Hao , Li Ying , Yang Leixin , Wang Meidi , Wang Hongjian , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: July 2019

Graphene oxide membranes with tunable interlayer distances by using vein-like supramolecular dendrimers as crosslinkers for ultrafast and selective water permeation.
High performance flexible multilevel optical memory based on a vertical organic field effect transistor with ultrashort channel length
Authors: Wu Xiaomin , Lan Shuqiong , Hu Daobing , Chen Qizhen , Li Enlong , Yan Yujie , Chen Huipeng , Guo Tailiang
Published: July 2019

Optical memory based on a vertical organic field effect transistor with ultrashort channel length exhibits excellent device performance with distinct storage levels.
Multicolour- and high-colour-contrast switching in response to force and acid vapour by introducing an asymmetric D–π–A–π–D structure
Authors: Xue Pengchong , Zhang Tong , Han Yanning
Published: July 2019

A phenothiazine derivative was found to exhibit multicolour- and high-colour-contrast switching in response to force and acid vapour by introducing an asymmetric D–π–A–π–D structure.
Reversal of EGFR inhibitors’ resistance by co-delivering EGFR and integrin αvβ3 inhibitors with nanoparticles in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: He Fei , Wang Yanzhong , Cai Wanru , Li Minjing , Dong Lei
Published: July 2019

Purpose: Tumor cells, with drug resistance, are associated with failed treatment and poor prognosis. Our aim was to explore potential strategy to overcome the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors resistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Materials and methods: Flow cytometry was used to examine and sort cells. Using MTT assay, we detected the cell viability under different conditions. Using RT-qPCR and Western blot, we determined the targeted gene expression in mRNA and protein levels. The morphology of the prepared nanoparticles was pictured by transmission electron microscopy. We also performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) to detect the proteins expression. Subcutaneous cancer models in nude mice were constructed to evaluate the anti-cancer effects in vivo.

Results: Here, we observed enhanced expression of integrin αvβ3 in tumor tissues from EGFR inhibitors resistant patients. Also, integrin αvβ3-positive NSCLC cells revealed significant EGFR inhibitors resistance, resulting from the activation of Galectin-3/KRAS/RalB/TBK1/NF-κB signaling pathway. Co-encapsulating integrin αvβ3 inhibitor and EGFR inhibitor further improved the drug delivery system, leading to superior anti-cancer effects and reduced systemic toxicity.

Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that co-encapsulation of erlotinib and cilengitide by MPEG-PLA (Erlo+Cilen/PP) nanoparticles revealed enhanced tumor suppression along with reduced organ damages, providing an innovative approach for NSCLC treatment.
Vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting laser with integrated surface grating for high birefringence splitting
Authors: Pusch T. , Debernardi P. , Lindemann M. , Erb F. , Gerhardt N.C. , Hofmann M.R. , Michalzik R.
Published: July 2019

Increasing the birefringence splitting in single‐mode vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting lasers (VCSELs) enables high‐speed polarisation dynamics which can be the basis to overcome the current bandwidth limitations in short‐haul data transmission. The authors observe large birefringence splittings of up to 98 GHz in an oxide‐confined AlGaAs‐based VCSEL with a tailored integrated surface grating. Since surface gratings are routinely used in VCSEL production, there is a great potential of this technique to realise spin‐VCSELs for ultrafast optical communication.
Moving target integration by exponentially weighted recursive RFT
Authors: Wang Haibo , Huang Wenhua , Jiang Yue
Published: July 2019

The Radon–Fourier transform (RFT) can effectively overcome the coupling between the range cell migration effect and Doppler modulation by jointly searching along range and velocity dimension for the moving target, which depends on envelope alignment and additional Doppler phase compensation. However, as to the conventional RFT method, it needs to wait until the whole coherent processing interval (CPI) is over before performing RFT integration, which is not flexible. Also, all echo data in the CPI takes the same weight. In this study, the weight of echo data has been generalised by the straightforward idea that new data should occupy more weight, while old echo data should take less. Thus, a novel method, named exponentially weighted recursive RFT (RRFT) has been proposed to realise RFT integration recursively. The computations can be started before all the data has been collected. The signal‐to‐noise ratio level of the echo signal is being improved during the iteration. The equivalent total coherent integration time and velocity resolution have been presented. The theoretical analysis shows that the computational complexity is of the same order as that of RFT. Finally, some numerical results are provided to validate the proposed method.
Carbon depletion observed inside T Tauri inner rims
Authors: McClure M. K.
Published: July 2019

Context. The carbon content of protoplanetary disks is an important parameter to characterize planets formed at different disk radii. There is some evidence from far-infrared and submillimeter observations that gas in the outer disk is depleted in carbon, with a corresponding enhancement of carbon-rich ices at the disk midplane. Observations of the carbon content inside of the inner sublimation rim could confirm how much carbon remains locked in kilometer size bodies in the disk.

Aims. I aim to determine the density, temperature, and carbon abundance inside the disk dust sublimation rim in a set of T Tauri stars with full protoplanetary disks.

Methods. Using medium-resolution, near-infrared (0.8–2.5 μm) spectra and the new Gaia DR2 distances, I self-consistently determine the stellar, extinction, veiling, and accretion properties of the 26 stars in my sample. From these values, and non-accreting T Tauri spectral templates, I extract the inner disk excess of the target stars from their observed spectra. Then I identify a series of C0 recombination lines in 18 of these disks and use the CHIANTI atomic line database with an optically thin slab model to constrain the average ne, Te, and nc for these lines in the five disks with a complete set of lines. By comparing these values with other slab models of the inner disk using the Cloudy photoionization code, I also constrain nH and the carbon abundance, XC, and hence the amount of carbon “missing” from the slab. For one disk, DR Tau, I use relative abundances for the accretion stream from the literature to also determine XSi and XN.

Results. The inner disks modeled here are extremely dense (nH ~ 1016 cm−3), warm (Te ~ 4500 K), and moderately ionized (log Xe ~ 3.3). Three of the five modeled disks show robust carbon depletion up to a factor of 42 relative to the solar value. I discuss multiple ways in which the “missing” carbon could be locked out of the accreting gas. Given the high-density inner disk gas, evidence for radial drift, and lack of obvious gaps in these three systems, their carbon depletion is most consistent with the “missing” carbon being sequestered in kilometer size bodies. For DR Tau, nitrogen and silicon are also depleted by factors of 45 and 4, respectively, suggesting that the kilometer size bodies into which the grains are locked were formed beyond the N2 snowline. I explore briefly what improvements in the models and observations are needed to better address this topic in the future.
Videokonsultationen durch Psychotherapeuten in der Hausarztpraxis
Authors: Haun Markus W. , Tönnies Justus , Oeljeklaus Lydia , Hoffmann Mariell , Wensing Michel , Szecsenyi Joachim , Friederich Hans-Christoph , Hartmann Mechthild
Published: July 2019

Psychische Störungen stellen einen erheblichen Belastungsfaktor für den Einzelnen sowie die gesamte Gesellschaft dar. Erster und in den meisten Fällen einziger Ansprechpartner im Gesundheitssystem ist der Hausarzt. Die Überweisung von Patienten in zeitnahe spezialisierte psychosomatische oder psychotherapeutische Behandlung erweist sich jedoch aufgrund vieler Probleme, insbesondere in ländlichen Gebieten, als schwierig. Zu diesen Problemen zählen etwa lange Wartezeiten, die steigende Prävalenz psychosomatischer und somatopsychischer Komorbidität, altersbedingte Immobilität und patientenseitige Stigmatisierungserwartung. Im Sinne des Integrated Health Care Ansatzes stellt die diagnostische und therapeutische Adressierung psychischer Störungen durch Psychotherapeuten direkt in der Hausarztpraxis ein effektives Versorgungsmodell dar. Hier vorgestellt wird ein telemedizinisches Therapiekonzept für Menschen mit depressiven und ängstlichen Erkrankungen. Im Zentrum steht die Erprobung psychotherapeutischer Videokonsultationen innerhalb der Hausarztpraxis. Es soll ein Überblick über das Therapiekonzept gegeben sowie Ergebnisse zur Umsetzungsbereitschaft des Modells bei niedergelassenen Psychotherapeuten dargestellt werden.
Trends and Inpatient Outcomes of Venous Thromboembolism-Related Admissions in Patients with Philadelphia-Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Katiyar Vatsala , Uprety Alok , Mendez-Hernandez Andres , Fuentes Harry E. , Andrade Xavier A. , Zia Maryam
Published: July 2019

Background Patients with Philadelphia-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), including polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocytosis (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (MF), have a significant risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). We aim to determine the trends in annual rates of VTE-related admissions, associated cost, length of stay (LOS), and in-hospital mortality in patients with MPN.

Methods We identified patients with PV, ET, and MF from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2006 to 2014 using ICD-9CM coding. Hospitalizations where VTE was among the top-three diagnoses were considered VTE-related. We compared in-hospital outcomes between VTE and non-VTE hospitalizations using chi-square and Mann–Whitney U-test and used linear regression for trend analysis.

Results We identified 1,046,666 admissions with a diagnosis of MPN. Patients were predominantly white (65.6%), females (52.7%), with a median age of 66 years (range: 18–108). The predominant MPN was ET (54%). There was no difference in in-hospital mortality between groups (VTE: 3.4% vs. non-VTE: 3.2%; p = 0.12); however, VTE admissions had a longer LOS (median: 6 vs. 5 days; p < 0.01) and higher cost (median: VTE US$32,239 vs. 28,403; p ≤ 0.01).

The annual rate of VTE admissions decreased over time (2006: 3.94% vs. 2014: 2.43%; p ≤ 0.01), compared with non-VTE–related admissions.

Conclusion In our study, VTE-related admissions had similar in-hospital mortality as compared with non-VTE–related admissions. The rates of hospitalizations due to VTE have decreased over time but are associated with a higher cost and LOS. Newer risk assessment tools may assist in preventing VTE in high-risk patients and optimizing resource utilization.
Evaluation of Systemic Effects of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Open Wound Treatment in Dogs
Authors: Albert Rebecca , Reese Sven , Nolff Mirja C. , Meyer-Lindenberg Andrea
Published: July 2019

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the systemic effect of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) on the treatment of complicated wounds in dogs.

Materials and Methods Dogs undergoing open wound treatment were randomly assigned to one of two groups: NPWT (n = 11) or polyurethane foam dressing (n = 11). Rectal temperature, heart rate as well as haematocrit, thrombocytes, leucocyte count, band neutrophils, C-reactive protein (CrP), total protein and albumin were recorded daily from the beginning of therapy (day 0) until day 5, as well as on day 10. The effect of treatment on systemic parameters was evaluated as well as the prognostic power of the individual parameters with regard to successful wound closure.

Results A more profound systemic decrease was found in total protein under NPWT. This difference was non-significant. Patients with non-successful closure displayed a non-significant trend towards lower initial leukocyte and thrombocyte counts and significantly higher CrP values on days 4, 5 and 10 (p < 0.05) compared with successfully treated patients. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed an optimal cutoff value of 70.2 mg/L at day 4 (sensitivity 80; specificity of 85.7).

Conclusion There might be an increased loss of protein in NPWT-treated patients, which does not affect albumin levels, otherwise no systemic effects were detected compared with the control treatment. The parameter with the best sensitivity and specificity to detect serious complications (no wound closure achieved) was CrP at day 4.
Analysis of the Microsurgery Match from 2014 to 2018 Reveals Increased Competition for Microsurgery Fellowship Positions
Authors: Cooper Michael N. , Daneshgaran Giulia , Yu Roy , Chang Jeff , Vartanian Emma , Shamsunder Meghana , Mehrara Babak J. , Matros Evan M. , Wong Alex K.
Published: July 2019

Background There has been no peer-reviewed published data analyzing the microsurgery match since it was established. The aim of this study is to present and analyze match data to inform residents and programs regarding outcomes.

Methods Anonymized data were requested from the San Francisco Match, which was plotted and analyzed utilizing Pearson's Chi-square, unpaired t-test, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results Match data was obtained from the years 2014 to 2018. The match rate decreased from 84.6% in 2015 to 67.3% in 2018, mean = 73.7 (8.29%), and (p = 0.01735). The position fill rate fluctuated from 82.9% in 2014 to 90.0% in 2016, mean = 86.5 (3.0%). In 2014 and 2015, 66.7% of applicants matched their first or second choice compared to 48.0% in 2018, mean = 58.7 (8.3%), (p =.04785). Matched applicants ranked mean = 6.6 (1.4%) programs versus 3.4 (1.3) for unmatched, (p < 0.0001). Filled programs ranked a greater number of applicants per position, mean = 8.5 (1.8%), compared to partially filled, mean = 4.6 (2.6%), and unfilled mean = 3.6 (3.4%), programs (p = 0.0014). In 2015, 55.0% of programs matched their first or second choice compared to 30.4% of programs in 2018, mean = 43.0 (10.1%).

Conclusion The application process for microsurgery has become more competitive. Matched applicants rank more programs than do unmatched. Fully filled programs rank more applicants per position than do unfilled or partially filled. Applicants and programs are increasingly less likely to match their top choices.
Does Robotic-Assisted Total Hip Arthroplasty Improve Accuracy of Cup Positioning?
Authors: Lawson Joshua A. , Garber Andrew T. , Stimac Jeffrey D. , Ramakrishnan Rama , Smith Langan S. , Malkani Arthur L.
Published: July 2019

Acetabular component malpositioning is a frequent cause of complications in total hip arthroplasty including instability, increased wear, osteolysis, impingement, and revision surgery. Recently, robotics and navigation have been introduced to improve cup positioning in total hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of postoperative acetabular component positioning using MAKO robotic-assisted versus manual acetabular component placement. A consecutive series of 100 total hip replacements were performed in 100 patients. The first 50 were performed using manual techniques, while the second 50 were performed using MAKO-guided acetabular component placement. Postoperative anteroposterior pelvis radiographs were used to determine the postoperative anteversion and inclination of the cup relative to the goal of 15 and 45°, respectively. In the manual group, the average anteversion and inclination was 14.3 and 44.2°, respectively, with 28% within 5° and 82% within 10° of the goal alignment, respectively. In the robotic group, the average anteversion and inclination was 15.1 and 45.6°, respectively, with 54 and 88% within 5 and 10° of the goal alignment, respectively. This equated to a statistically significant improvement in the number of acetabular components placed within 5° of the target alignment with the use of robotic guidance (p = 0.0142). From the authors' study, they were able to demonstrate a significant improvement in acetabular component alignment with the use of robotic techniques. Additional studies are needed to demonstrate improvement in clinical outcomes as a result of improved accuracy and precision of acetabular component placement.
Tuning Packing, Structural Flexibility, and Porosity in 2D Metal–Organic Frameworks by Metal Node Choice
Authors: Bloch Witold M. , Doonan Christian J. , Sumby Christopher J.
Published: July 2019

Understanding the key features that determine structural flexibility in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is key to exploiting their dynamic physical and chemical properties. We have previously reported a 2D MOF material, CuL1, comprising five-coordinate metal nodes that displays exceptional CO2/N2 selectively (L1=bis(4-(4-carboxyphenyl)-1H-pyrazolyl)methane). Here we examine the effect of utilising six-coordinate metal centres (CoII and NiII) in the synthesis of isostructural MOFs from L1, namely CoL1 and NiL1. The octahedral geometry of the metal centre within the MOF analogues precludes an ideal eclipse of the 2D layers, resulting in an offset stacking, and in certain cases, the formation of 2-fold interpenetrated analogues β-CoL1 and β-NiL1. We used a combination of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and powder and single crystal X-ray diffraction (PXRD and SCXRD) to show that desolvation is accompanied by a structural change for NiL1, and complete removal of the coordinated H2O ligands results in a reduction in long-range order. The offset nature of the 2D layers in combination with the structural changes impedes the adsorption of meaningful quantities of gases (N2, CO2), highlighting the importance of a five-coordinate metal centre in achieving optimal pore accessibility for this family of flexible materials.
A tensor-based framework for studying eigenvector multicentrality in multilayer networks
Authors: Wu Mincheng , He Shibo , Zhang Yongtao , Chen Jiming , Sun Youxian , Liu Yang-Yu , Zhang Junshan , Poor H. Vincent
Published: July 2019

Significance

It is of significant interest to understand the structure and function of multilayer networks, which model many practical complex systems. Centrality, quantifying the importance of nodes in a graph, is widely recognized as one of the most effective measures. Nevertheless, a general framework for characterizing centrality in multilayer networks is still lacking. In this article, we fill this gap by developing a tensor-based framework for characterizing eigenvector multicentrality in general multilayer networks. We prove the existence and uniqueness of eigenvector multicentrality for 2 interesting scenarios, using the proposed framework. The results from empirical networks demonstrate that this framework helps us obtain a clear understanding of the eigenvector multicentrality of nodes.
Conformational shifts in a chemoreceptor helical hairpin control kinase signaling inEscherichia coli
Authors: Gao Qun , Cheng Anchun , Parkinson John S.
Published: July 2019

Significance

Motile bacteria use chemoreceptor signaling arrays to track chemical gradients with high precision. TheEscherichia colichemotaxis system offers an ideal model for probing the molecular mechanisms of transmembrane and intracellular signaling. In this study, we characterized the signaling properties of mutantE. colireceptors that had amino acid replacements in residues that form a salt-bridge connection between the cytoplasmic tips of receptor molecules. The mutant signaling defects suggested that the chemoreceptor tip operates as a two-state device with discrete active and inactive conformations and that the level of output activity modulates connections between receptor signaling units that produce highly cooperative responses to attractant stimuli. These findings shed important light on the nature and control of receptor signaling states.
Beyond proteases: Basement membrane mechanics and cancer invasion
Authors: Chang Julie , Chaudhuri Ovijit
Published: July 2019

In epithelial cancers, cells must invade through basement membranes (BMs) to metastasize. The BM, a thin layer of extracellular matrix underlying epithelial and endothelial tissues, is primarily composed of laminin and collagen IV and serves as a structural barrier to cancer cell invasion, intravasation, and extravasation. BM invasion has been thought to require protease degradation since cells, which are typically on the order of 10 µm in size, are too large to squeeze through the nanometer-scale pores of the BM. However, recent studies point toward a more complex picture, with physical forces generated by cancer cells facilitating protease-independent BM invasion. Moreover, collective cell interactions, proliferation, cancer-associated fibroblasts, myoepithelial cells, and immune cells are all implicated in regulating BM invasion through physical forces. A comprehensive understanding of BM structure and mechanics and diverse modes of BM invasion may yield new strategies for blocking cancer progression and metastasis.
In the Form of Bread? A Randomized Comparison of Cash and Food Transfers in Yemen
Authors: Schwab Benjamin
Published: July 2019

Debate over the implementation of food assistance programs and the role of in‐kind food aid has intensified in recent years. Within that context, we study a randomized control trial of rural communities in Yemen. From 2011 to 2012, poor households in half of the communities received assistance in the form of in‐kind food (wheat flour and oil), and households in the other half received an equal valued cash transfer. On average, those that received cash exhibited greater dietary diversity, with differences driven largely by increases in consumption of protein‐rich foods like meat and fish. However, food households consumed, on average, approximately 150 more calories per person per day than cash recipients, due largely to higher wheat flour and oil consumption. Modality type did not significantly affect non‐food consumption, including usage of qat, a mildly narcotic leaf consumed widely in Yemen, and cash cost less to deliver than food.
Exercise Prevents Hypertension and Disrupts the Correlation Between Vascular Sympathetic Activity and Age-Related Increase in Blood Pressure in SHRs
Authors: Li Jia-Yi , Chen Chieh-Wen , Liu Tsung-Han , Kuo Terry Bj , Yang Cheryl Ch
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Hypertension usually accompanies the elevated sympathetic activity and sleep interruption. Few researches explored the dynamic changes and possible correlations in cardiovascular functions and sleep patterns during the development of hypertension. In contrast, exercise training provides several benefits on cardiovascular and sleep function in hypertensive subjects. However, controlling various factors during a long period of exercise training is difficult in hypertensive subjects, an animal model may be essential. This study aimed to explore dynamic changes in cardiovascular functions and sleep patterns during the development period of hypertension (10–20 weeks old) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and effects of exercise intervention.

METHODS

We used the treadmill exercise model for 8 weeks and started when SHRs were 12 weeks old. Electroencephalogram, electromyogram, electrocardiogram, and blood pressure (BP) were recorded simultaneously for 24 hours once a week over 11 weeks.

RESULTS

Untrained SHRs revealed the age-related increments in BP, and the significant increasing slopes of differences on BP and vascular sympathetic activity were observed during the development period of hypertension. Compared with untrained rats, age-related increases in BP and vascular sympathetic activity were significantly suppressed in trained SHRs. Nevertheless, trained SHRs showed more quiet sleep time at partial weeks. The positive correlation between the differences from 10 weeks of vascular sympathetic activity and BP was disappeared in trained SHRs.

CONCLUSIONS

There existed the significant correlation between the dynamic changes of vascular sympathetic activity and age-related elevation of BP during the development period of hypertension; however, exercise prevented hypertension and disrupted this correlation.
Modeling Flow-Ecology Responses in the Anthropocene: Challenges for Sustainable Riverine Management
Authors: Horne Avril C , Nathan Rory , Poff N LeRoy , Bond Nick R , Webb J Angus , Wang Jun , John Andrew
Published: July 2019

Climate change will increase water stress in many regions placing greater pressures on rivers to meet human and ecological water needs. Managing rivers experiencing water stress requires a fundamental understanding of how ecosystem processes and functions respond to natural and anthropogenic drivers of flow variability and change. The field of environmental flows meets this need by defining “flow-ecology” relationships—mathematical models linking ecological characteristics and dynamics to the underlying flow regime. However, because these relationships are most often based on historical hydrologic regimes, they implicitly assume climatic stationarity. A fundamental challenge in the Anthropocene is how to model flow-ecology relationships such that the effects of nonstationarity can be captured. In the present article, we introduce a novel approach that addresses these shortcomings and show its utility through a series of conceptual and empirical examples. The framework incorporates ecological dynamics and uncertain future hydrologic conditions, as well as nonstationarity itself, thereby providing a viable framework for modeling flow-ecology responses to inform water management in a rapidly changing climate.
Morbidity following salvage esophagectomy for squamous cell carcinoma: the MD Anderson experience
Authors: Mitchell K G , Nelson D B , Corsini E M , Vaporciyan A A , Antonoff M B , Mehran R J , Rice D C , Roth J A , Sepesi B , Walsh G L , Bhutani M S , Maru D M , Wu C C , Nguyen Q-N , Ajani J A , Swisher S G , Hofstetter W L
Published: July 2019

The survival advantage associated with the addition of surgical therapy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients who demonstrate a complete clinical response to chemoradiotherapy is unclear, and many institutions have adopted an organ-preserving strategy of selective surgery in this population. We sought to characterize our institutional experience of salvage esophagectomy (for failure of definitive bimodality therapy) and planned esophagectomy (as a component of trimodality therapy) by retrospectively analyzing patients with ESCC of the thoracic esophagus and GEJ who underwent esophagectomy following chemoradiotherapy between 2004 and 2016. Of 76 patients who met inclusion criteria, 46.1% (35) underwent salvage esophagectomy. Major postoperative complications (major cardiovascular and pulmonary events, anastomotic leak [grade ≥ 2], and 90-day mortality) were frequent and occurred in 52.6% of the cohort (planned resection: 36.6% [15/41]; salvage esophagectomy: 71.4% [25/35]). Observed rates of 30- and 90-day mortality for the entire cohort were 7.9% (planned: 7.3% [3/41]; salvage: 8.6% [3/35]) and 13.2% (planned: 9.8% [4/41]; salvage: 17.1% [6/35]), respectively. In summary, esophagectomy following chemoradiotherapy for ESCC at our institution has been associated with frequent postoperative morbidity and considerable rates of mortality in both planned and salvage settings. Although a selective approach to surgery may permit organ preservation in many patients with ESCC, these results highlight that salvage esophagectomy for failure of definitive-intent treatment of ESCC may also constitute a difficult clinical undertaking in some cases.
The value of three-dimensional echocardiography in the diagnosis and management of ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm: a case report
Authors: Daud Elias , Or Tsafrir , Adler Zvi , Shturman Alexander
Published: July 2019

Background 

A sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) is a rare cardiac anomaly. Most SVA’s rupture into right heart chambers and can be classified using the modified Sakakibara classification according to the site of rupture. Transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is a useful diagnostic tool and aides in treatment planning in patients with congenital anomalies in emergency situations. Three-dimensional TOE (3D-TOE) provides additional value over standard TOE.

Case summary

A 38-year-old man with a reported history of ventricular septal defect (VSD) presented to the emergency department complaining of chest pain and epigastric pain lasting several days. Physical examination revealed a continuous heart murmur and signs of acute heart failure. A 3D-TOE revealed an SVA rupture into the right ventricle (Type IIIv) but no evidence of a VSD. Urgent aortic valve replacement with correction of the ruptured SVA was performed. Neither a VSD nor signs of endocarditis were found during surgical exploration. The patient was discharged on post-operative Day 5 in good condition.

Discussion

A sinus of Valsalva aneurysm is a rare cardiac condition. Ventricular septal defect, bicuspid aortic valve, or aortic valve regurgitation may coexist with SVA. Xin-Jin et al. classified a ruptured SVA into five types according to the site of rupture. Transoesophageal echocardiography is an important tool for diagnosis, anatomical description, and typing of the ruptured SVA. Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm may be misdiagnosed as a VSD, as was the case in our patient, and 3D-TOE can be instrumental for providing both correct diagnosis and critical surgical planning.