bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dual roles of the sterol recognition region in Hedgehog protein modification
Authors: Purohit Rahul , Peng Daniel S. , Vielmas Erika , Ondrus Alison E. 
Published: May 2020

AbstractNature provides a number of mechanisms to encode dynamic information in biomolecules. In metazoans, there exist rare chemical modifications that occur in entirely unique regimes. One such example occurs in the Hedgehog (Hh) morphogens, proteins singular across all domains of life for the nature of their covalent ligation to cholesterol. The isoform- and context-specific efficiency of this ligation profoundly impacts the activity of Hh morphogens and represents an unexplored facet of Hh ligand-dependent cancers. To elucidate the chemical mechanism of this modification, we have defined roles of the uncharacterized sterol recognition region (SRR) in Hh proteins. We use a combination of sequence conservation, directed mutagenesis, and biochemical assays to specify residues of the SRR participate in cellular and biochemical aspects of Hh cholesterolysis. Our investigations offer a functional portrait of this region, providing opportunities to identify parallel reactivity in nature and a template to design tools in chemical biology.
One-dimensional photonic bound states in the continuum
Authors: Pankin P. S. , Wu B.-R. , Yang J.-H. , Chen K.-P. , Timofeev I. V. , Sadreev A. F. 
Published: May 2020

AbstractIn 1985 Fridriech and Wintgen proposed a mechanism for bound states in the continuum based on full destructive interference of two resonances which can be easily applied to the two- and three-dimensional wave systems. Here we explicitly show that this mechanism can be realized in one-dimensional quantum potential well, owing to destructive interference of electron paths with different spin in tilted magnetic field. Due to one-by-one correspondence between the spin of the electron and the polarization state of light, we have found numerous bound states in the continuum in the one-dimensional photonic system and experimentally confirmed them. The experimental set-up consists of the one-dimensional photonic crystal conjugated with a liquid-crystalline anisotropic defect layer and covered by metal film.
An in-depth reanalysis of the alleged type Ia supernova progenitor Henize 2−428
Authors: Reindl N. , Schaffenroth V. , Miller Bertolami M. M. , Geier S. , Finch N. L. , Barstow M. A. , Casewell S. L. , Taubenberger S. 
Published: May 2020

Context.The nucleus of the planetary nebula Hen 2-428 is a short orbital-period (4.2 h), double-lined spectroscopic binary, whose status as a potential supernova type Ia progenitor has raised some controversy in the literature.Aims.With the aim of resolving this debate, we carried out an in-depth reanalysis of the system.Methods.Our approach combines a refined wavelength calibration, thorough line-identifications, improved radial-velocity measurements, non-LTE spectral modeling, as well as multi-band light-curve fitting. Our results are then discussed in view of state-of-the-art stellar evolutionary models.Results.Besides systematic zero-point shifts in the wavelength calibration of the OSIRIS spectra which were also used in the previous analysis of the system, we found that the spectra are contaminated with diffuse interstellar bands. Our Voigt-profile radial velocity fitting method, which considers the additional absorption of these diffuse interstellar bands, reveals significantly lower masses (M1 = 0.66 ± 0.11M⊙andM2 = 0.42 ± 0.07M⊙) than previously reported and a mass ratio that is clearly below unity. Our spectral and light curve analyses lead to consistent results, however, we find higher effective temperatures and smaller radii than previously reported. Moreover, we find that the red-excess that was reported before to prove to be a mere artifact of an outdated reddening law that was applied.Conclusions.Our work shows that blends of He II λ 5412 Å with diffuse interstellar bands have led to an overestimation of the previously reported dynamical masses of Hen 2−428. The merging event of Hen 2−428 will not be recognised as a supernova type Ia, but most likely leads to the formation of a H-deficient star. We suggest that the system was formed via a first stable mass transfer episode, followed by common envelope evolution, and it is now composed of a post-early asymptotic giant branch star and a reheated He-core white dwarf.
The Role of Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Soft Tissue Tumors
Authors: Aparisi Gómez Maria Pilar , Errani Costantino , Lalam Radhesh , Vasilevska Nikodinovska Violeta , Fanti Stefano , Tagliafico Alberto Stefano , Sconfienza Luca Maria , Bazzocchi Alberto 
Published: May 2020

AbstractThe vast majority of soft tissue masses are benign. Benign lesions such as superficial lipomas and ganglia are by far the most common soft tissue masses and can be readily identified and excluded on ultrasound (US). US is an ideal triaging tool for superficial soft tissue masses. Compared with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), High-resolution US is inexpensive, readily available, well tolerated, and safe. It also allows the radiologist to interact with the patient as a clinician. In this review, we describe and illustrate the lesions with typical (diagnostic) US features. When the appearances of the lesion are not typical as expected for a benign lesion, lesions are deep or large, or malignancy is suspected clinically, MRI and biopsy are needed. The management of suspicious soft tissue tumors has to be carefully planned by a multidisciplinary team involving specialized surgeons and pathologists at a tumor center.
Undergraduate Students’ Acceptance of a Reciprocating One-File System for Endodontic Treatment
Authors: Mahmoodi Benjamin , Azaripour Adriano , Sagheb Kawe , Sagheb Keyvan , Willershausen Brita , Weusmann Jens 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Objectives Reciprocating endodontic one-file systems are a comparatively new method for root canal shaping. Even though the mechanical properties are comparable to modern rotating mechanical systems, data about subjective assessment and application quality are scarce. This study evaluates the reciprocating one-file system in undergraduate education.
Materials and Methods A total of 42 undergraduate students without experience regarding reciprocating file systems filled in a questionnaire in four different points in time (t
1–t
4) anonymously. The questionnaire was based on a numerical rating scale ranging from 0 to 10.
Statistical Analysis A least significant difference post-hoc analysis comparing the group average values was performed. The adjusted level of significance was p < 0.004 after Bonferroni correction.
Results All rating scores increased after the first theoretical instruction. After the first practical training in artificial root canals in resin blocks and extracted teeth (t
2), the estimation of “time efficiency” (p = 0.002), “handling” (p < 0.001), and “overall impression” (p < 0.001) improved significantly. The “overall impression” remained constant and showed no significant changes after the first practical training.
Conclusions Reciprocating systems seem to show a good acceptance among first time users. Initial concerns about “work safety” decrease during every step of the educational process. Reciprocating one-file systems are a safe and well-accepted method in undergraduate teaching.
A Novel Application of Digital Microscope for Microsurgery Training
Authors: Sayadi Lohrasb R. , Fligor Jennifer E. , Couchois Sean , Evans Gregory R. D. , Widgerow Alan D. , Lanier Brock 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background Time spent under the microscope is often a limiting factor as plastic surgery residents work toward proficiency in microsurgery. This study describes and assesses a novel application of a digital microscope compatible with smart devices which can consistently and reliably magnify microsurgical fields.
Methods A digital microscope was used to display an “operating” field on a tablet device. Two junior plastic surgery residents participated in multiple training sessions. During each session, residents completed two sessions of a knot-tying task and a chicken vessel anastomosis task. The sessions were recorded on the tablet, photographed, and graded by an experienced microsurgeon utilizing three standardized microsurgery training scales (OWOMSA, OSATS, and Global scale) for evaluation. Between sessions, the residents received feedback from the experienced microsurgeon.
Results Statistically significant improvements (p < 0.05) in microsurgical technique were observed across 16 areas assessed by the standardized evaluation scales. Additionally, the residents' surveys suggest favorable attitudes toward the digital microscope and its value as a training device.
Conclusion Traditional operating microscopes present considerable barriers for effective microsurgical training. The digital microscope analyzed in the present study provides solutions to several of these barriers: it is economical, lightweight, portable, and can be set up by the trainee on any flat surface; photographing and recording capabilities via the connected tablet device make the digital microscope setup optimized for education. Our study demonstrates measurable improvements in trainee's skills with use of—as well as favorable trainee attitudes toward—the digital microscope, which could present a valuable addition to plastic surgery education.
Recipient Vessel Thrombectomy and Anastomosis within the Zone of Injury in Microvascular Extremity Reconstruction
Authors: Powers Jeremy M. , Choi Jaime H. , Kale Santosh S. 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background In traumatic extremity reconstruction, it is preferable to perform microvascular anastomoses outside the zone of injury. Alternatively, a recipient-vessel thrombectomy can be performed to improve the arterial inflow, potentially avoiding further proximal dissection and the use of a vein graft. The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of microvascular anastomosis after thrombectomy in the zone of injury.
Methods A retrospective review of patients who underwent free tissue transfer for traumatic extremity reconstruction by the senior author from 2013 to 2017 was conducted. Patient demographic and clinical data were gathered as well as use of vein grafts, recipient-vessel thrombectomy, postoperative anticoagulation, and flap outcomes.
Results A total of 23 patients underwent 24 free flap procedures for traumatic extremity reconstruction. Ten patients underwent recipient-vessel thrombectomy with 2-Fr Fogarty catheter and were placed on postoperative anticoagulation. In this group overall, there was one case of flap loss due to late wound infection resulting in a 90% success rate. A total of 13 patients underwent 14 free flaps without the use of thrombectomy and vein grafts were performed for 3/14 (21%) patients. In this group, there were four cases of flap loss, resulting in a 71% overall success rate.
Conclusion In traumatic extremity reconstruction, if the artery appears to be visibly appropriate with weak inflow, one may consider attempting thrombectomy to restore pulsatile flow prior to harvesting a vein graft. This study suggests this may be effective and safe with no anastomosis-related flap loss in the thrombectomy group. Further research is required to confirm our results.
COVID-19 in Pregnant Women: Case Series from One Large New York City Obstetrical Practice
Authors: Fox Nathan S. , Melka Stephanie 
Published: May 2020

Objective This study aimed to report a case series of pregnant women in New York City with confirmed or presumed coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection.
Study Design Beginning March 22, 2020, all pregnant women from one large obstetrical practice in New York City were contacted regularly to inquire about symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, malaise, anosmia), or sick contacts. A running log was kept of these patients, as well as all patients who underwent COVID-19 testing. For this report, we included every patient with suspected COVID-19 infection, which was defined as at least two symptoms, or a positive COVID-19 nasopharyngeal polymerase chain reaction test.
Results From March 22, 2020 until April 30, 2020, 757 pregnant women in our practice were evaluated and 92 had known or suspected COVID-19 (12.2%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.0–14.7%). Of these 92 women, 33 (36%) had positive COVID-19 test results. Only one woman required hospital admission for 5 days due to COVID-19 (1.1%, 95% CI: 0.2–5.9%). One other woman received home oxygen. No women required mechanical ventilation and there were no maternal deaths. One woman had an unexplained fetal demise at 14 weeks' gestation around the time of her COVID-19 symptoms. Twenty one of the 92 women have delivered, and all were uncomplicated.
Conclusions Among 92 women with confirmed or presumed COVID-19, the overall morbidity was low. These preliminary results are encouraging for pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Points
Dispersion tailoring of photonic crystal fibers for flat-top, coherent, and broadband supercontinuum generation
Authors: Seyed Hashemi Seyed Ali , Noori Mina 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
A double-clad AsSe2-based photonic crystal fiber possessing ultra-flat near-zero dispersion has been introduced, here to achieve flat-top and coherent supercontinuum generation at Mid-IR range. Also, the required conditions to obtain flat-top, broadband, and coherent supercontinuum generation have been discussed based on the systematic study carried out here, by GNLSE regarding the input pump pulse characteristics and the dispersion regime. The proposed photonic crystal fiber in this study, presents nearly-zero all-normal dispersion of about D ∼ −3.4 ps(nm.km)−1 corresponding to minimum group velocity dispersion at 6.9 μm. For the pump pulse with λ = 6.9 μm, time duration of T = 50 fs, and low peak power of P = 1 kW, a coherent flat-top supercontinuum generation has been realized with the span of 4.14 μm and 4.97 μm at 8 dB and 20 dB levels, respectively. Moreover, a figure of merit covering the essential characteristics of supercontinuum generation spectra (bandwidth, coherency, and flatness) has been introduced to compare the performance of different structures. It has been shown that β
2 tailoring with near-zero and flat characteristic is essential to achieve higher figure of merit.
A dual-phase scaffold produced by rotary jet spinning and electrospinning for tendon tissue engineering
Authors: Guner Mustafa Bahadir , Dalgic Ali Deniz , Tezcaner Aysen , Yilanci Sedat , Keskin Dilek 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Tendon is a highly hierarchical and oriented tissue that provides high mechanical strength. Tendon injuries lead to loss of function, disability, and a decrease in quality of life. The limited healing capacity of tendon tissue leads to scar tissue formation, which can affect mechanical strength and cause a re-tear. Tissue engineering can be the solution to achieving complete and proper healing of tendon. The developed constructs should be mechanically strong while maintaining a suitable environment for cell proliferation. In this study, a dual-phase fibrous scaffold was produced by combining fibrous mats produced by rotary jet spinning (RJS) and wet electrospinning (WES), with the intent of improving the healing capacity of the construct. Dual-phase scaffolds were formed from aligned poly(ϵ-caprolactone) (PCL) fibers (Shell) produced by RJS and randomly oriented PCL or PCL/gelatin fibers (Core) produced by WES systems. The scaffolds mimicked i) the repair phase of tendon healing, in which randomly-oriented collagen type III is deposited by randomly-oriented WES fibers and ii) the remodeling stage, in which aligned collagen type I fibers are deposited by aligned RJS fibers. In vitro studies showed that the presence of randomly-oriented core fibers inside the aligned PCL fiber shell of the dual-phase scaffold increased the initial attachment and viability of cells. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy analysis showed that the presence of aligned RJS fibers supported the elongation of cells through aligned fibers which improves tendon tissue healing by guiding oriented cell proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition. Tenogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells on scaffolds was studied when supplemented with growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF-5). GDF-5 treatment improved the viability, collagen type III deposition and scaffold penetration of human adipose derived stem cells. The developed FSPCL/ESPCL-Gel 3:1 scaffold (FS = centrifugal force spinning/RJS, ES = wet electrospinning, Gel = gelatin) sustained high mechanical strength, and improved cell viability and orientation while supporting tenogenic differentiation.
Crossing-The-Line Segmentation as a Basis for Rsm and Rc Evaluation
Authors: Seewig J , Scott P J , Eifler M , Barwick B , Hüser D 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Feature characterization of rough surfaces is of growing interest in terms of a function oriented description of technical surfaces. Feature characterization requires a segmentation of significant hills and dales of the measured profile. The segmentation can be done in several ways. One method is the so called crossing-the-line segmentation which will be part of ISO 16610 part 45 and ISO 21920 part 2. The crossing-the-line segmentation described in this publication represents an extension of the algorithm proposed by Scott (Scott P, 2006, Meas. Sci. Technol.
17, 559–564) and is based on new knowledge gathered over the last ten years. As an example, the feature parameters

R
S
m

and

R
c

according to ISO 4287:1997 are evaluated.
Magnetism and magnetocaloric effect of melt-spun, nanostructured GdAl2
Authors: Prusty Mitali Madhusmita , Arout Chelvane J , Nirmala R 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Magnetocaloric effect (MCE) of melt-spun rare earth intermetallic compound GdAl2 (Cubic, MgCu2-type) has been studied. The sample becomes nanostructured upon melt-spinning and the crystallite size obtained from the powder x-ray diffraction data is about 48 nm. A sluggish paramagnetic to ferromagnetic transition occurs at a Curie temperature (TC) of about 136 K. This value is about 30 K lower than the ferromagnetic transition temperature of the arc-melted GdAl2. The maximum isothermal magnetic entropy change (ΔSm) is found to be ∼ −8.3 Jkg−1 K−1 at 133 K for 70 kOe field change around TC. This value is quite comparable to that of bulk sample prepared by arc-melting which is about −8.5 Jkg−1 K−1 at 168 K for the same field change. Thus melt-spinning process results in broadening of the peak in the isothermal magnetic entropy change versus temperature plot without compromising on the magnetocaloric effect.
Molecular adsorption of iminotriazine derivatives on graphene
Authors: Rodríguez Antonio M , González Viviana Jehová , León Verónica , Herrero M Antonia , Muñoz-García Ana B , Pavone Michele , Prieto Pilar , De La Hoz Antonio , Vázquez Ester 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
The non-covalent functionalisation of graphene is the method of choice for modulating the electronic and chemical properties of graphene materials without markedly disturbing the electron density in the final structures. In this respect, different aromatic and amphiphilic molecules have been reported, and their interactions with graphene materials have been studied in order to design catalysts, sensors or other electronic devices. The interactions between a set of iminotriazine derivatives and graphene have been studied using state of the art first principle calculations, which were corroborated with experimental data. An effective non-covalent interaction of the systems has been demonstrated and, although the variation of the electronic properties of the starting graphene is minimal, the electronic properties of some iminotriazines changed significantly.
Escalating the dose and downgrading the rhythm: the combination of prescribed and non-prescribed medications resulting in an abnormal heart rhythm
Authors: Saunders Hollie , Joyce Nicole , Garland Jeffrey , Cowdell Jed Colt 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Older patients often have multiple medical issues which predisposes them to complications of polypharmacy and medication interactions. We present a case of an 89-year-old female who presented to the emergency department after a fall. An electrocardiogram (ECG) showed a junctional bradycardia with a ventricular rate of 50 beats per minute (BPM). Her magnesium was 3.5 mg/dl (1.7–2.3 mg/dl). She had recently increased her milk of magnesia use for constipation. Pertinent other medications included verapamil 280 mg daily. On admission 2 grams of calcium gluconate IV were administered and the verapamil was held. An ECG the next morning showed sinus rhythm with a ventricular rate of 76 BPM.
The effect of multimorbidity on functional limitations and depression amongst middle-aged and older population in China: a nationwide longitudinal study
Authors: Zhao Yang William , Haregu Tilahun Nigatu , He Li , Lu Shurong , Katar Ameera , Wang Haipeng , Yao Zhibin , Zhang Luwen 
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Background
multimorbidity contributes to a large portion of the disease burden in low- and middle-income countries. However, limited research has been undertaken in China. This study has investigated the prevalence of multimorbidity and the associations of multimorbidity with activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and depression in China.

Methods
the study participants included 10,055 adults aged 45 years and older from three rounds of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2011–2015. Random-effects logistic regression models were used to examine the association of multimorbidity with ADL limitation, IADL limitation and mental disease.

Results
the prevalence of multimorbidity amongst adults in China aged 45 years and older was 62.1% in 2015. The prevalence of multimorbidity was increased with older age, among women, in a higher socio-economic group and in the most deprived regions. Multimorbidity is associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing ADL limitation (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 5.738, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 5.733, 5.744) and IADL limitation (AOR = 2.590, 95% CI = 2.588, 2.592) and depression (AOR = 3.352, 95% CI = 3.350, 3.354). Rural–urban disparities in functional difficulties and depression were also found amongst patients with multimorbidity.

Conclusions
the burden of multimorbidity is high in China, particularly amongst the older population. Multimorbidity is associated with higher levels of functional limitations and depression. China healthcare reforms should introduce integrated care models and patient-centred healthcare delivery. The increasing need for reorientation of healthcare resources considering the distribution of multimorbidity and its adverse effect requires more attention from health policymakers in China and other developing countries.