bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mechanism and Rate Constants of the CH3+ CH2CO Reaction: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Semenikhin A. S. , Shubina E. G. , Savchenkova A. S. , Chechet I. V. , Matveev S. G. , Konnov A. A. , Mebel A. M. 
Published: February 2018

ABSTRACTThe mechanism of the reaction of ketene with methyl radical has been studied by ab initio CCSD(T)‐F12/cc‐pVQZ‐f12//B2PLYPD3/6‐311G** calculations of the potential energy surface. Temperature‐ and pressure‐dependent reaction rate constants have been computed using the Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus (RRKM)–Master Equation and transition state theory methods. Three main channels have been shown to dominate the reaction; the formation of the collisionally stabilized CH3COCH2 radical and the production of the C2H5 + CO and HCCO + CH4 bimolecular products. Relative contributions of the CH3COCH2, C2H5 + CO, and HCCO + CH4 channels strongly depend on the reaction conditions; the formation of thermalized CH3COCH2 is favored at low temperatures and high pressures, HCCO + CH4 is dominant at high temperatures, whereas the yield of C2H5 + CO peaks at intermediate temperatures around 1000 K. The C2H5 + CO channel is favored by a decrease in pressure but remains the second most important reaction pathway after HCCO + CH4 under typical flame conditions. The calculated rate constants at different pressures are proposed for kinetic modeling of ketene reactions in combustion in the form of modified Arrhenius expressions. Only rate constant to form CH3COCH2 depends on pressure, whereas those to produce C2H5 + CO and HCCO + CH4 appeared to be pressure independent.
Office‐based esophageal dilation in head and neck cancer: Safety, feasibility, and cost analysis
Authors: Howell Rebecca J. , Schopper Melissa A. , Giliberto John Paul , Collar Ryan M. , Khosla Sid M. 
Published: February 2018

ObjectiveTo review experience, safety, and cost of office‐based esophageal dilation in patients with history of head and neck cancer (HNCA).MethodsThe medical records of patients undergoing esophageal dilation in the office were retrospectively reviewed between August 2015 and May 2017. Patients were given nasal topical anesthesia. Next, a transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE) was performed. If the patient tolerated TNE, we proceeded with esophageal dilation using Seldinger technique with the CRE™ Boston Scientific (Boston Scientific Corp., Marlborough, MA) balloon system. Patients were discharged directly from the outpatient clinic.ResultsForty‐seven dilations were performed in 22 patients with an average of 2.1 dilations/patient (range 1–10, standard deviation [SD] ± 2.2). Seventeen patients (77%) were male. The average age was 67 years (range 35–78 years, SD ± 8.5). The most common primary site of cancer was oral cavity/oropharynx (n = 10), followed by larynx (n = 6). All patients (100%) had history of radiation treatment. Four patients were postlaryngectomy. The indication for esophageal dilation was esophageal stricture and progressive dysphagia. All dilations occurred in the proximal esophagus. There were no major complications. Three focal, superficial lacerations occurred. Two patients experienced mild, self‐limited epistaxis. One dilation was poorly tolerated due to discomfort. One patient required pain medication postprocedure. Office‐based esophageal dilation generated $15,000 less in health system charges compared to traditional operating room dilation on average per episode of care.ConclusionIn patients with history of HNCA and radiation, office‐based TNE with esophageal dilation appears safe, well‐tolerated, and cost‐effective. In a small cohort, the technique has low complication rate and is feasible in an otolaryngology outpatient office setting.Level of Evidence4. Laryngoscope, 128:2261–2267, 2018
Sodium Butyrate Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Cell Migration by Downregulating Bmi‐1 Through Enhanced miR‐200c Expression
Authors: Xu Zhiyao , Tao Jingjing , Chen Ping , Chen Long , Sharma Sherven , Wang Guanyu , Dong Qinghua 
Published: February 2018

ScopeShort‐chain fatty acid sodium butyrate (NaB) is the byproduct of bacterial anaerobic fermentation of dietary fiber in the colon, and has been shown to have an antitumor effect on colorectal cancer (CRC). The miR‐200 family is a key regulator of the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). We investigate the role of miR‐200s expression on cell migration in NaB‐treated CRC cells.Methods and resultsHCT116 and LOVO CRC cells treated with NaB depicted reduced cell proliferation, enhanced apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest. NaB inhibited cell migration in the wound healing and transwell assays, and in spheriod cultures while regulating EMT‐related protein expression. NaB reciprocally increased miR‐200s but reduced expression of their target genes (Bmi‐1, Zeb1, EZH2). Cells transfected with miR‐200c shRNA displayed a significant blockade of NaB‐induced anti‐invasive activity. Upregulation of Bmi‐1 expression partially reversed the effect of NaB. In addition to inhibition of tumor growth in vivo, qRT‐PCR results showed that NaB increased miR‐200c/200b/492 expression in the tumor tissues. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting results demonstrated that NaB decreased Bmi‐1 expression in vivo.ConclusionNaB inhibits CRC cell migration by enhancing miR‐200c expression‐mediated downregulation of Bmi‐1. These findings support the utility of NaB in colorectal cancer therapy.
Person‐centred care in nurse‐led outpatient rheumatology clinics: Conceptualization and initial development of a measurement instrument
Authors: Bala Sidona‐Valentina , Forslind Kristina , Fridlund Bengt , Samuelson Karin , Svensson Björn , Hagell Peter 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackgroundPerson‐centred care (PCC) is considered a key component of effective illness management and high‐quality care. However, the PCC concept is underdeveloped in outpatient care. In rheumatology, PCC is considered an unmet need and its further development and evaluation is of high priority. The aim of the present study was to conceptualize and operationalize PCC, in order to develop an instrument for measuring patient‐perceived PCC in nurse‐led outpatient rheumatology clinics.MethodsA conceptual outpatient PCC framework was developed, based on the experiences of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), person‐centredness principles and existing PCC frameworks. The resulting framework was operationalized into the PCC instrument for outpatient care in rheumatology (PCCoc/rheum), which was tested for acceptability and content validity among 50 individuals with RA attending a nurse‐led outpatient clinic.ResultsThe conceptual framework focuses on the meeting between the person with RA and the nurse, and comprises five interrelated domains: social environment, personalization, shared decision‐making, empowerment and communication. Operationalization of the domains into a pool of items generated a preliminary PCCoc/rheum version, which was completed in a mean (standard deviation) of 5.3 (2.5) min. Respondents found items easy to understand (77%) and relevant (93%). The Content Validity Index of the PCCoc/rheum was 0.94 (item level range, 0.87–1.0). About 80% of respondents considered some items redundant. Based on these results, the PCCoc/rheum was revised into a 24‐item questionnaire.ConclusionsA conceptual outpatient PCC framework and a 24‐item questionnaire intended to measure PCC in nurse‐led outpatient rheumatology clinics were developed. The extent to which the questionnaire represents a measurement instrument remains to be tested.
A howl from the grave: Osteological analysis of 12th‐ to 15th‐century dogs from Santa Ana, Manila, Philippines
Authors: Vitales Timothy James 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThis research article examines the dog remains recovered from the archaeological excavations of a 12th to 15th‐century CE grave site in Santa Ana district of Manila, Philippines. Of particular interest in this study is the articulated dog remains recovered beside a child burial, wherein spinal deformities were observed. Through osteometry and physical examination of individual bones, with consideration of their archaeological contexts and inference from ethnohistorical texts, the study was able to provide a general picture of the physical stature of dogs and their social significance within the human communities in Manila during the period known as the Protohistoric period.
Perceptions of barriers and facilitators to early integration of pediatric palliative care: A national survey of pediatric oncology providers
Authors: Dalberg Todd , McNinch Neil L. , Friebert Sarah 
Published: February 2018

AbstractObjectivesThe goal of this study was to assess pediatric oncology providers’ perceptions of palliative care in order to validate previously identified barriers and facilitators to early integration of a pediatric palliative care team (PCT) in the care of children with cancer.MethodsA 36‐question survey based on preliminary, single‐institution data was electronically distributed to pediatric oncology physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, and social workers nationally. The principal outcomes measured included perceived barriers and facilitators to early integration of pediatric palliative care. Data were analyzed using Rv3.1.2 statistical software.ResultsMost respondents agreed that the PCT does not negatively impact the role of the oncologist; however, there were concerns that optimal patient care may be limited by pediatric oncologists’ need to control all aspects of patient care (P < 0.001). Furthermore, oncologists, more than any provider group, identified that the emotional relationship they form with the patients and families they care for, influences what treatment options are offered and how these options are conveyed (P < 0.01). Education and evidence‐based research remain important to all providers. Respondents reached consensus that early integration of a PCT would provide more potential benefits than risks and most would not limit access to palliative care based on prognosis.ConclusionsOverall, providers endorse early integration of the PCT for children with cancer. There remains a continued emphasis on provider and patient education. Palliative care is generally accepted as providing a benefit to children with cancer, though barriers persist and vary among provider groups.
Impact of laser therapy for twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome on subsequent pregnancy
Authors: Le Lous Maela , Mediouni Imen , Chalouhi Gihad , Salomon Laurent J. , Bussières Laurence , Carrier Aude , Bernard Jean‐Pierre , Ville Yves 
Published: February 2018

AbstractObjectivesThe objective of our study was to determine the impact of laser therapy for twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTs) on subsequent pregnancies.MethodsThis was a monocentric retrospective observational study. Women treated by laser fetoscopy for TTTs were asked to answer a postal questionnaire about subsequent pregnancies. The primary outcome was fecundity (number of pregnancies and time to pregnancy). We also assessed pregnancy complications, birth weight, and gestational age at delivery. Pregnancy complications included the following: threatened preterm labor, preeclampsia, placenta accreta, postpartum hemorrhage, and psychological disorders. Our study population was compared with an external control group made up of mothers of monochorionic twins without TTTs.ResultsWe included 122 cases managed at the Necker Hospital between 2008 and 2012 and 39 controls. The median conception time was longer in the TTTs group (6.4 ± 11.1 versus 2 ± 1.6 months, P = .03). The numbers of live childbirths at the end of those pregnancies were equivalent (77.6% versus 66.7%, P = .56). Birth weight (3317 ± 726 versus 3240 ± 382 g, P = .81) and gestational age at delivery (38.2 ± 6.8 WG versus 39.5 ± 1.2 WG, P = .64) were similar, with no increase of obstetrical complications compared with the control group.DiscussionTwin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome and its treatment do not seem to impact subsequent pregnancies.
Synthesis of β‐myrcene/glycidyl methacrylate statistical and amphiphilic diblock copolymers by SG1 nitroxide‐mediated controlled radical polymerization
Authors: Métafiot Adrien , Gérard Jean‐François , Defoort Brigitte , Marić Milan 
Published: February 2018

ABSTRACTBulk nitroxide‐mediated polymerization (NMP) of β‐myrcene (My)/glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) mixtures with varying GMA molar feed fraction (fGMA,0 = 0.10–0.91) was accomplished at 120 °C, initiated by SG1‐based alkoxyamine bearing a N‐succinimidyl ester group (NHS‐BlocBuilder). Low dispersity My/GMA copolymers (Đ < 1.56) with slight number‐average molecular weights (Mns) deviations from predicted values (Mn,theo with Mn/Mn,theo > 70%) were obtained. The copolymerization was revealed to be statistical, confirmed via Fineman–Ross (rMy = 0.80 ± 0.31 and rGMA = 0.71 ± 0.15) and Kelen‐Tüdös (rMy = 0.48 ± 0.12 and rGMA = 0.53 ± 0.18) approaches. Glass transition temperature (Tg) of the statistical P(My‐stat‐GMA)s increased from −77 to +43 °C as the GMA molar fraction incorporated (FGMA) increased from 0.10 to 0.90. High SG1 chain‐end fidelity for My‐rich and GMA‐rich P(My‐stat‐GMA)s was assessed by phosphorus nuclear magnetic resonance (31P NMR, SG1 fraction >69 mol %) and chain‐extensions in toluene with My, GMA and styrene (S) (monomodal shift in Mn). Last, diblock P(My‐b‐GMA) was made and treated with morpholine to produce amphiphilic copolymer able to self‐organize into micelles. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 860–878
Effectiveness of Faradic and Russian currents on plantar flexor muscle spasticity, ankle motor recovery, and functional gait in stroke patients
Authors: Ganesh G. Shankar , Kumari Ranjita , Pattnaik Monalisa , Mohanty Patitapaban , Mishra Chittaranjan , Kaur Parminder , Dakshinamoorthy Anandhi 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackground and PurposeSpasticity is a major disabling symptom in patients post stroke. Though studies have demonstrated that electrical stimulation (ES) can reduce spasticity and improve passive ankle range of motion (ROM), not many studies have evaluated the effectiveness of ES on active ankle ROM. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of Faradic and Russian currents in the reduction of ankle plantar‐flexor spasticity and improving motor recovery in patients post stroke.MethodsEighty‐three patients (29 females and 54 males; mean age of 57.12 years) were randomly assigned to Group 1 (task‐oriented exercises), Group 2 (Faradic current for 10 min and task‐oriented exercises), and Group 3 (Russian current for 10 min and task‐oriented exercises) for a period of 5 sessions per week for 6 weeks. All patients were assessed for soleus and gastrocnemius muscles spasticity measured by modified modified Ashworth scale; active and passive range ROM measured by goniometer; and functional ambulation measured by modified Emory Functional Ambulation Profile at the time of recruitment to study and after 6 weeks.ResultsBoth the types of stimulation and exercises were not associated with improvements in modified Emory Functional Ambulation Profile (p > 0.05). The results showed that all the groups are effective in improving passive ankle ROM (p < 0.05) and reducing soleus and gastrocnemius muscles spasticity (p < 0.05). Though all the groups were effective in improving active ankle ROM, no group was found to be superior to another after treatmentConclusionAdding ES to exercises are associated with low to medium effect sizes (<0.5) in reducing spasticity and improving ankle ROM.
Structure and function of the bacillithiol‐S‐transferase BstA from Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Francis Joel W. , Royer Christopher J. , Cook Paul D. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBacillithiol is a low‐molecular weight thiol produced by many gram‐positive organisms, including Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus anthracis. It is the major thiol responsible for maintaining redox homeostasis and cellular detoxification, including inactivation of the antibiotic fosfomycin. The metal‐dependent bacillithiol transferase BstA is likely involved in these sorts of detoxification processes, but the exact substrates and enzyme mechanism have not been identified. Here we report the 1.34 Å resolution X‐ray crystallographic structure of BstA from S. aureus. Our structure confirms that BstA belongs to the YfiT‐like metal‐dependent hydrolase superfamily. Like YfiT, our structure contains nickel within its active site, but our functional data suggest that BstA utilizes zinc for activity. Although BstA and YfiT both contain a core four helix bundle and coordinate their metal ions in the same fashion, significant differences between the protein structures are described here.
Heavy drinkers of Ilex paraguariensis beverages show lower lipid profiles but higher body weight
Authors: Chaves Graciela , Britez Nidia , Oviedo Guillermo , Gonzalez Graciela , Italiano Cristina , Blanes Monserrat , Sandoval Gladys , Mereles Derliz 
Published: February 2018

Obesity is a widely recognized risk factor for several diseases, reaching an epidemic magnitude worldwide. Natural polyphenols may improve blood lipids and body weight, but their clinical relevance in the general population remains unclear. Thus, we aimed to analyze the relationship of intake of Ilex paraguariensis (I. paraguariensis) beverages to lipid profiles and body weight in a large patient population. Patients were recruited to participate in an educational program to change habits to a healthy lifestyle. Anamnesis, clinical and laboratory assessments were conducted at study enrollment and during follow‐up. I. paraguariensis beverages were defined according to preparation as obtained by repeated cold water extraction (CWE), hot water infusions, or water and sugar decoction. Heavy drinkers were defined as those persons consuming >1 L/day of one or more preparation types. Participants (N = 18,287) aged ≥18 years entered the study. Overall prevalence of I. paraguariensis consumption was 91.2%. All three forms were drunk by 35.7%, whereas CWE + hot water infusion and CWE alone by 28.4% and 14.5% participants, respectively. Heavy CWE drinkers had lower total cholesterol (191.4 ± 49.4 vs. 194.6 ± 48.3 mg/dl, p = .02) and lower low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (118.6 ± 38.9 vs. 121.2 ± 47.1 mg/dl, p = .001), but body weight was higher (81.1 ± 16.8 vs. 77.2 ± 16.4 kg, p < .0001) compared with moderate drinkers. Fasting glucose was lower (104.5 ± 48.7 vs. 107.2 ± 49.5 mg/dl, p < .001), and consumption of carbohydrates was higher (36.3% vs. 28.7%, p < .001). A low‐lipids high‐body‐weight paradox could be observed in a population of heavy drinkers of I. paraguariensis beverages. Induced hypoglycemia and compensatory higher intake of refined carbohydrates may represent a possible cause.
Implications of climate change for shipping: Opening the Arctic seas
Authors: Ng Adolf K.Y. , Andrews Jonathan , Babb David , Lin Yufeng , Becker Austin 
Published: February 2018

This paper assesses the value and environmental feasibility of Arctic shipping by reviewing the relevant scientific and economic peer‐reviewed literature. From the physical perspective, this paper examines the impact of climate change on sea ice and marine weather and considers the resultant consequences for Arctic shipping accessibility. From an economic perspective, it reviews the major research investigating the economic feasibility of diverting ships from conventional shipping routes to Arctic routes, the attitudes of shipping stakeholders, and other major factors affecting the prospect of Arctic shipping. This review also identifies important research gaps. Ultimately, we find that the complex environmental and economic dynamics of the Arctic suggest that an appropriate understanding of Arctic shipping will require close collaboration between natural and social scientists.This article is categorized under:
Assessing Impacts of Climate Change > Evaluating Future Impacts of Climate Change
Aggressive and Multidisciplinary Local Approach to Iterative Recurrences of Colorectal Liver Metastases
Authors: Viganò Luca , Pedicini Vittorio , Comito Tiziana , Carnaghi Carlo , Costa Guido , Poretti Dario , Franzese Ciro , Personeni Nicola , Del Fabbro Daniele , Rimassa Lorenza , Scorsetti Marta , Santoro Armando , Solbiati Luigi , Torzilli Guido 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackgroundLiver resection (LR) of colorectal metastases is associated with high recurrence risk. Aggressive local retreatment is advocated, but further recurrences may occur. Poor is known about presentation, treatment, and outcome of iterative recurrences.MethodsA series of 323 consecutive patients undergoing first LR in the period 2004–2013 was reviewed. Patients with recurrence were included. Any local treatment (surgery, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)) was analyzed. If first recurrence (1st Rec) was treated, further recurrences and treatments were considered.ResultsOverall, 206 (63.8%) patients had 1st Rec; 105 (51.0%) were treated (72 surgery, 19 RFA, 14 SBRT). Among treated patients, 78.1% had 2nd Rec, 74.4% 3rd Rec, 72.2% 4th Rec. Liver involvement progressively decreased (from 81.6 to 30.8%), and pulmonary one increased (from 23.3 to 53.8%). The proportion of treated patients remained stable (1st Rec = 51%, 2nd Rec = 55%, 3rd Rec = 56.3%, 4th Rec = 69.2%): surgery and RFA decreased (from 35.4 to 23.1%; from 9.2 to 0%) and SBRT increased (from 6.8 to 46.2%). Overall, 105 patients received 205 treatments (133 operations in 80 patients). Surgery had the best local disease control: at 2 years 93.4% versus RFA 56.4% (p = 0.0008) and SBRT 74.0% (p = 0.051). In comparison with chemotherapy, recurrence treatment improved survival after 1st Rec (3‐year survival 62.9 vs. 13.4%, p < 0.0001), 2nd Rec (61.3 vs. 22.5%, p < 0.0001), and 3rd Rec (2‐year survival 88.9 vs. 30.8%, p = 0.005).ConclusionsAggressive local treatment of recurrent metastases may improve survival, even in the case of iterative recurrences and extrahepatic lesions. Surgery is the standard, but a multidisciplinary approach should be adopted to enlarge the pool of treatable patients.
Photocatalytic degradation of metronidazole and methylene blue by PVA-assisted Bi2WO6–CdS nanocomposite film under visible light irradiation
Authors: Rajendran Ranjith , Varadharajan Krishnakumar , Jayaraman Venkatesan , Singaram Boobas , Jeyaram Jayaprakash 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
The enhanced photocatalytic performance of nanocomposite is synthesized via the hydrothermal method and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–Vis DRS) and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). Under visible light irradiation, PVA assisted Bi2WO6–CdS nanocomposite film displayed enhanced photocatalytic efficiency and inhibition of photocorrosion as compared with pure CdS, pure Bi2WO6 and Bi2WO6–CdS composite. The PVA assisted Bi2WO6–CdS composite film catalyst showed stable catalytic performance until seven successive runs with 92% of methylene blue(MB) degradation, and easy to recover after degradation of organic pollutant. PVA assisted Bi2WO6–CdS nanocomposite film has optimal band edge position for superior photocatalytic degradation. Furthermore, the trapping experiment was carried out using different scavenger for active species. Among the active species, OH· are the most responsive species which play a vital role in the degradation of metronidazole and MB.