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Background: Evolution of novelty is a central theme in evolutionary biology, yet studying the origins of traits with an apparently discontinuous origin remains a major challenge. Venom systems are a well-suited model for the study of this phenomenon because they capture several aspects of novelty across multiple levels of biological complexity. However, while there is some knowledge on the evolution of individual toxins, not much is known about the evolution of venom systems as a whole. One way of shedding light on the evolution of new traits is to investigate less specialised serial homologues, i.e. repeated traits in an organism that share a developmental origin. This approach can be particularly informative in animals with repetitive body segments, such as centipedes. Results: Here, we investigate morphological and biochemical aspects of the defensive telopodal glandular organs borne on the posterior legs of venomous stone centipedes (Lithobiomorpha), using a multimethod approach, including behavioural observations, comparative morphology, proteomics, comparative transcriptomics and molecular phylogenetics. We show that the anterior venom system and posterior telopodal defence system are functionally convergent serial homologues, where one (telopodal defence) represents a model for the putative early evolutionary state of the other (venom). Venom glands and telopodal glandular organs appear to have evolved from the same type of epidermal gland (four-cell recto-canal type) and while the telopodal defensive secretion shares a great degree of compositional overlap with centipede venoms in general, these similarities arose predominantly through convergent recruitment of distantly related toxin-like components. Both systems are composed of elements predisposed to functional innovation across levels of biological complexity that range from proteins to glands, demonstrating clear parallels between molecular and morphological traits in the properties that facilitate the evolution of novelty. Conclusions: The evolution of the lithobiomorph telopodal defence system provides indirect empirical support for the plausibility of the hypothesised evolutionary origin of the centipede venom system, which occurred through functional innovation and gradual specialisation of existing epidermal glands. Our results thus exemplify how continuous transformation and functional innovation can drive the apparent discontinuous emergence of novelties on higher levels of biological complexity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the intriguing relationship between personality traits, self-rated fitness (SRF), and physical activity (PA) variables among German university students (N = 4244) and sheds light on the impact of personality on adherence to PA guidelines. Employing an online cross-sectional study, the short-form of the Big Five Inventory-2 assessed five domains of personality traits (Extraversion, Negative Emotionality, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, and Open-Mindedness). PA, including sitting time, was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short-form). SRF and muscle-strengthening activities (MSA) were assessed with one item each. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses examined associations of individual personality trait domains and all domains combined with SFR, PA variables, and adherence to PA guidelines, controlling for sociodemographic, behavioral, and (mental) health covariates. Most reliably, Extraversion and Conscientiousness revealed positive associations with PA variables, while Negative Emotionality yielded inverse relationships with PA variables. For instance, each unit increase in Extraversion corresponded to an additional 17 min of weekly MSA. On the contrary, daily sitting time was unrelated to personality. Of note, high Open-Mindedness was associated with lower odds for adhering to current PA guidelines. The findings have implications for developing targeted interventions that promote a physically active lifestyle and support students' well-being and academic success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hip and knee osteoarthritis are associated with functional limitations, pain and restrictions in quality of life and the ability to work. Furthermore, with growing prevalence, osteoarthritis is increasingly causing (in)direct costs. Guidelines recommend exercise therapy and education as primary treatment strategies. Available options for treatment based on physical activity promotion and lifestyle change are often insufficiently provided and used. In addition, the quality of current exercise programmes often does not meet the changing care needs of older people with comorbidities and exercise adherence is a challenge beyond personal physiotherapy. The main objective of this study is to investigate the short- and long-term (cost-)effectiveness of the SmArt-E programme in people with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis in terms of pain and physical functioning compared to usual care. Methods: This study is designed as a multicentre randomized controlled trial with a target sample size of 330 patients. The intervention is based on the e-Exercise intervention from the Netherlands, consists of a training and education programme and is conducted as a blended care intervention over 12 months. We use an app to support independent training and the development of self-management skills. The primary and secondary hypotheses are that participants in the SmArt-E intervention will have less pain (numerical rating scale) and better physical functioning (Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) compared to participants in the usual care group after 12 and 3 months. Other secondary outcomes are based on domains of the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI). The study will be accompanied by a process evaluation. Discussion: After a positive evaluation, SmArt-E can be offered in usual care, flexibly addressing different care situations. The desired sustainability and the support of the participants' behavioural change are initiated via the app through audio-visual contact with their physiotherapists. Furthermore, the app supports the repetition and consolidation of learned training and educational content. For people with osteoarthritis, the new form of care with proven effectiveness can lead to a reduction in underuse and misuse of care as well as contribute to a reduction in (in)direct costs. Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00028477. Registered on August 10, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beach handball is a young discipline that is characterized by numerous high-intensity actions. By following up on previous work, the objective was to perform in-depth analyses evaluating external load (e.g., distance traveled, velocity, changes in direction, etc.) in beach handball players. In cross-sectional analyses, data of 69 players belonging to the German national or prospective team were analyzed during official tournaments using a local positioning system (10 Hz) and inertial measurement units (100 Hz). Statistical analyses comprised the comparison of the first and second set and the effects of age and sex (female adolescents vs. male adolescents vs. male adults) and playing position (goalkeepers, defenders, wings, specialists, and pivots) on external load measures. We found evidence for reduced external workload during the second set of the matches (p = 0.005, ηp2 = 0.09), as indicated by a significantly lower player load per minute and number of changes in direction. Age/sex (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.22) and playing position (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.29) also had significant effects on external load. The present data comprehensively describe and analyze important external load measures in a sample of high-performing beach handball players, providing valuable information to practitioners and coaches aiming at improving athletic performance in this new sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Müller, C and Zentgraf, K. Neck and trunk strength training to mitigate head acceleration in youth soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 35(12S): S81–S89, 2021—Heading in soccer involves repetitive head accelerations that may be detrimental for brain health. One way to mitigate adverse effects may be to increase head-neck stabilization and thus reduce the kinematic response after intentional headers. This study aimed to (a) assess associations between neck strength and head kinematics and (b) evaluate an exercise intervention designed to increase strength and attenuate head acceleration during intentional heading in youth soccer players. In 22 athletes, we used accelerometers to assess associations between neck strength and peak linear acceleration (PLA). We attached the accelerometers to the occiput and sternum, allowing us to differentiate between total, trunk, and head PLA. Longitudinally, we evaluated the effects of a 14-week twice-weekly resistance training in a subsample of 14 athletes compared with regular soccer training (N = 13). Results showed that female athletes had lower isolated neck strength (p ≤ 0.004), lower functional neck strength (p ≤ 0.017), and higher total PLA during purposeful headers compared with males (17.2 ± 3.5 g and 13.0 ± 2.3 g , respectively, at 9.6 m·s−1 ball velocity during impact; p = 0.003). The intervention group showed moderate to large strength gains ( η p 2 = 0.16–0.42), resulting in lower PLA (total −2.4 g , trunk −0.8 g , and head −1.5 g) during headers. We conclude that a resistance training focusing on cervical and trunk musculature is practicable in youth soccer, elicits strength gains, and helps to mitigate PLA during purposeful heading. Results should encourage youth strength and conditioning professionals to incorporate neck exercises as a risk reduction strategy into their training routine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The jointed appendage is a key novelty in arthropod evolution and arthropod legs are known to vary enormously in relation to function. Among centipedes, the ultimate legs always are distinctly different from locomotory legs, and different centipede taxa evolved different structural and functional modifications. In Geophilomorpha (soil centipedes), ultimate legs do not participate in locomotion and were interpret to serve a sensory function. They can be sexually dimorphic and in some species, male ultimate legs notably appear "hairy". It can be assumed that the high abundance of sensilla indicates a pronounced sensory function. This study seeks for assessing the sensory diversity, however, documents the surprising and unique case of an extensive glandular epithelium in the ultimate legs of three phylogenetically distant species. Results: The tightly aggregated epidermal glands with stalked ducts – mistakenly thought to be sensilla – were scrutinized using a multimodal microscopic approach comprising histology as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy in Haplophilus subterraneus. Hence, this is the first detailed account on centipede ultimate legs demonstrating an evolutionary transformation into a "secretory leg". Additionally, we investigated sensory structures as well as anatomical features using microCT analysis. Contrary to its nomination as a tarsus, tarsus 1 possesses intrinsic musculature, which is an indication that this podomere might be a derivate of the tibia. Discussion: The presence and identity of ultimate leg associated epidermal glands with stalked ducts is a new discovery for myriapods. A pronounced secretory as well as moderate sensory function in Haplophilus subterraneus can be concluded. The set of characters will improve future taxonomic studies, to test the hypotheses whether the presence of these specialized glands is a common feature in Geophilomorpha, and that tarsus 1 may be a derivate of the tibia. As the number of epidermal glands with stalked ducts is sexually dimorphic, their function might be connected to reproduction or a sex-specific defensive role. Our results, in particular the unexpected discovery of 'glandular hairs', may account for a striking example for how deceptive morphological descriptions of epidermal organs may be, if based on non-invasive techniques alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several 1,1′‐diphosphanyl‐substituted metallocenes of magnesium (magnesocenes) were synthesized, structurally characterized, and their reactivity and coordination chemistry were investigated. Transmetalation of these magnesocenes gives access to group 14 metallocenes (tetrelocenes), as well as to group 15 stibonocenes. These s‐ and p‐block metallocenes represent a novel class of bis(phosphanyl) ligands, exhibiting Lewis‐amphiphilic character. Their coordination chemistry towards different transition‐metal and main‐group fragments was investigated and different complexes are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decreasing number of veteran trees in Europe threatens old‐growth habitats and the fauna they support. This includes rare taxa, such as the violet click beetle, Limoniscus violaceus (Müller, 1821).Samples of wood mould were taken from all beech trees in Windsor Forest previously confirmed to have contained L. violaceus larvae, and from trees where L. violaceus had not previously been detected, the latter categorised as having high, medium or low likelihood of containing the beetle during recent surveys. Habitat characteristics were measured, and volatile profiles determined using gas‐chromatography mass‐spectrometry.Water content significantly differed between tree hollows of different violet click beetle status, high‐potential habitats having higher and relatively stable water content compared with habitats with medium or low potential of beetle occupancy. Several volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were significantly associated with L. violaceus habitats. No differences in other characteristics were detected.The distinction in water regime between habitats highlights that recording this quantitatively could improve habitat surveys. Several potential L. violaceus attractant VOCs were identified. These could potentially be integrated into existing monitoring strategies, such as through volatile‐baited emergence traps or volatile‐based surveying of habitats, for more efficient population monitoring of the beetle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have performed CCSD(T), MP2, and DF-LMP2 calculations of the interaction energy of CO on the MgF2(110) surface by applying the method of increments and an embedded cluster model. In addition, we performed periodic HF, B3LYP, and DF-LMP2 calculations and compare them to the cluster results. The incremental CCSD(T) calculations predict an interaction energy of Eint = -0.37 eV with a C-down orientation of CO above a Mg2+ ion at the surface with a basis set of VTZ quality. We find that electron correlation constitutes about 50% of the binding energy and a detailed evaluation of the increments shows that the largest contribution to the correlation energy originates from the CO interaction with the closest F ions on the second layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results from first-principles calculations present a rather clear picture of the interaction of SO2 with unreduced and partially reduced (111) and (110) surfaces of ceria. The Ce3+/Ce4+ redox couple, together with many oxidation states of S, give rise to a multitude of SOx species, with oxidation states from +III to +VI. SO2 adsorbs either as a molecule or attaches via its S-atom to one or two surface oxygens to form sulfite (SO32-) and sulfate (SO42-) species, forming new S-O bonds but never any S-Ce bonds. Molecular adsorption is found on the (111) surface. SO32- structures are found on both the (111) and (110) surfaces of both stoichiometric and partially reduced ceria. SO42- structures are observed on the (110) surface together with the formation of two reduced Ce3+ surface cations. SO2 can also partially heal the ceria oxygen vacancies by weakening a S-O bond, when significant electron transfer from the surface (Ce4f) into the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital of the SO2 adsorbate takes place and oxidizes the surface Ce3+ cations. Furthermore, we propose a mechanism that could lead to monodentate sulfate formation at the (111) surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have combined an embedded-cluster model with an extension of the method of increments to treat the adsorption of molecules on a surface. In this way we are able to investigate the physisorption of CO on CeO2(110) at the MP2, MP4(SDTQ), and CCSD(T) levels with only moderate computational costs. We find that, at the CCSD(T) level, 25% of the adsorption energy originates from electron correlation. The interactions of the CO molecule with its five nearest cerium and oxygen neighbors in the surface layer make the largest contributions to the electron correlation. Approximately 97% of the adsorption-induced electron correlation energy part of the adsorption energy is recovered by the method of increments (in our chosen expansion), at the MP2 level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Chronic health conditions and impaired quality of life are commonly experienced in childhood cancer survivors. While rehabilitation clinics support patients in coping with the disease, studies evaluating an inpatient rehabilitation program on promoting physical activity (PA) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are missing.Methods: A 4-week inpatient rehabilitation program was prospectively evaluated. One hundred fifty patients with leukemia or lymphoma (N = 86), brain tumors (N = 38), and sarcomas (N = 26) were enrolled on average 17 months after cessation of acute medical treatment. PA amount and cadence (indicating the intensity of walking activity) using the StepWatch™ 3 Activity Monitor and HRQoL global and physical well-being scores using the KINDL(®) questionnaire were assessed before, immediately after, and 6 and 12 months following the program and analyzed using multiple linear mixed models.Results: Significant effects on PA were only found at 12-month follow-up for amount and cadence variables (all p < 0.05). While leukemia and lymphoma patients revealed the highest PA level throughout the study, rehabilitation effects were more pronounced for cadence variables in brain tumor and sarcoma patients. The rehabilitation program had immediate (t = 4.56, p < 0.001) and sustainable effects on HRQoL global scores (6-month follow-up, t = 4.08, p < 0.001; 12-month follow-up, t = 3.13, p < 0.006).Conclusions: Immediate and sustainable increases in HRQoL indicate that a 4-week rehabilitation program is beneficial for improving psychosocial well-being, while the significant increase in PA levels could be related to general recovery as well. The lack of a control group hampers the evaluation of the rehabilitation program on promoting PA levels in pediatric cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the origins of 'de Vries-like' liquid crystalline behaviour by introducing an ethynyl spacer in the core of the tricarbosilane-terminated 5-phenylpyrimidine mesogens QL16-6 and QL17-6. The rationale for this structural change is based on the assumption that an ethynyl spacer would create more free volume in the core sub-layer and therefore decrease the orientational order parameter S2 in the SmA phase. The tricarbosilane-terminated mesogens WL41-5 and WL42-6 with a 5-(phenylethynyl)pyrimidine core in either a normal or inverted orientation were synthesised, and their mesomorphic and 'de Vries-like' properties characterised using polarised optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, birefringence measurements, small–angle (SAXS) and 2D X-ray scattering. Reduction factors R derived from SAXS and optical tilt angle measurements suggest that neither WL41-5 (R = 0.49) nor WL42-6 (R = 0.80) exhibit 'de Vries-like' properties. The S2(T) profiles show an increase in orientational order with decreasing temperature and a sharp discontinuity at the SmA-SmC transition, which is consistent with 'de Vries-like' behaviour. However, the Leff(T) profiles suggest an increase in interdigitation that reduces the positive effect of increasing S2 in compensating for the molecular tilt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of N‐heterocyclic carbenes, 1a–c, towards cyclopentadienes, 2a–c, was studied. N,N′‐diisopropyl‐substituted carbene 1a acts as a Brønsted base and deprotonates cyclopentadiene, 2a, and isopropylcyclopentadiene, 2b, to yield the corresponding imidazolium cyclopentadienide salts, 3a,b, whereas there is no reaction towards 1,2,3,4,5‐pentamethylcyclopentadiene. Imidazolium cyclopentadienide salts, 3a,b, were characterized in solution by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, as well as in the solid state by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. In addition, it was demonstrated that imidazolium cyclopentadienide salt 3a can be used as a Cp‐transfer reagent in the synthesis of different cyclopentadienyl transition metal complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corona ciliata of Chaetognatha (arrow worms) is a circular or elliptical groove lined by a rim from which multiple lines of cilia emanate, located dorsally on the head and/or trunk. Mechanoreception, chemosensation, excretion, respiration, and support of reproduction have been suggested to be its main functions. Here we provide the first experimental evidence that the cilia produce significant water flow, and the first visualisation and quantification of this flow. In Spadella cephaloptera , water is accelerated toward the corona ciliata from dorsal and anterior of the body in a funnel-shaped pattern, and expelled laterally and caudally from the corona, with part of the water being recirculated. Maximal flow speeds were approximately 140 μm s −1 in adult specimens. Volumetric flow rate was Q = 0.0026 μl s −1 . The funnel-shaped directional flow can possibly enable directional chemosensation. The flow measurements demonstrate that the corona ciliata is well suited as a multifunctional organ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of a 4-wk inpatient rehabilitation program on postural control and gait in pediatric patients with cancer. Design: Eighty-eight patients with brain tumors (n = 59) and bone/soft tissue sarcomas (n = 29) were evaluated. Postural control was assessed examining the velocity of the center of pressure and single-leg stance time on a pressure distribution platform. Walk ratio, a measure of neuromotor control, was used to evaluate intervention effects on gait. Results: Repeated measures analysis of variance showed improvements in postural control measures, indicated by a decrease in velocity of center of pressure of -0.4 cm/sec (F1,80 = 7.175, P = 0.009, ηp² = 0.082) and increase in single-leg stance time (mean [median] = 1.1[2.6]sec, respectively; F1,80 = 12.617, P = 0.001, ηp² = 0.136). Walk ratio increased by 0.2 mm/steps per min (F1,82 = 3.766, P = 0.056, ηp² = 0.044). Mean changes in dependent variables did not differ between both patient groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The results indicate benefits of an inpatient rehabilitation program comprising standard physical therapy as well as aquatic and hippo therapy on postural control and gait after treatment of pediatric patients with cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoproduction of electron–positron pairs by the strong-field Breit–Wheeler process in an intense laser field is studied. The laser field is assumed to consist of two consecutive short pulses, with a variable time delay in between. By numerical calculations within the framework of scalar quantum electrodynamics, we demonstrate that the time delay exerts a strong impact on the pair-creation probability. For the case when both pulses are identical, the effect is traced back to the relative quantum phase of the interfering S -matrix amplitudes and explained within a simplified analytical model. Conversely, when the two laser pulses differ from each other, the pair-creation probability depends not only on the time delay but, in general, also on the temporal order of the pulses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodic density functional theory calculations were performed to investigate the Lewis acidity of unsaturated surface cations of ZnF 2 , using CO as probe molecule at different coverages. We have calculated adsorption energies for CO on all low index ZnF 2 surfaces using DFT with the B3LYP functional and subsequent dispersion correction. Additionally local second order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory (LMP2) calculations were performed. In most of the cases, the adsorption of CO on different surfaces is described well using B3LYP. Dispersion correction to B3LYP is found to overestimate the adsorption energy. The interaction among adsorbed CO molecules appears to have a significant effect on the adsorption energies at full coverage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piritramide is indicated for treatment of postoperative pain and analgosedation in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting. In an open prospective study the pharmacokinetics of piritramide were investigated in four groups: newborns (NB, age: 1–28 days) ( n=8), infants 1 (IF1, age: 2–4 months) ( n=7), infants 2 (IF2, age: 5–12 months) ( n=14) and young children (YC, age: 2–4 years) ( n=10). The recommended paediatric dose range for therapy of postoperative pain is 50–200 μg/kg. Piritramide was administered intravenously as a single dose by bolus injection of 50 μg/kg. Blood samples were collected at 0, 15, 45, 90 min and 3, 6, 9, 12 h after application, and urine samples were collected before application and during the following intervals: 1–2, 2–6, 6–12 h. Piritramide was measured in blood and urine by HPLC-ESI-MS. The following pharmacokinetic parameters: maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), distribution half-life % MathType!Translator!2!1!AMS LaTeX.tdl!TeX -- AMS-LaTeX!% MathType!MTEF!2!1!+-% feaaeaart1ev0aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbbjxAHX% garmWu51MyVXgatuuDJXwAK1uy0HwmaeHbfv3ySLgzG0uy0Hgip5wz% aebbnrfifHhDYfgasaacH8qrps0lbbf9q8WrFfeuY-Hhbbf9v8qqaq% Fr0xc9pk0xbba9q8WqFfea0-yr0RYxir-Jbba9q8aq0-yq-He9q8qq% Q8frFve9Fve9Ff0dmeaabaqaciGacaGaaeqabaWaaeWaeaaakeaada% qadaqaaiaadshadaWgaaWcbaWaaSGbaeaacaqGXaaabaGaaGOmaiaa% bg7aaaaabeaaaOGaayjkaiaawMcaaiaacYcaaaa!3DB5! $${\left( {t_{{{\text{1}} \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{\text{1}} {2{\text{ $ \alpha $ }}}}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {2{\text{ $ \alpha $ }}}}} } \right)},$$ , elimination half-life % MathType!Translator!2!1!AMS LaTeX.tdl!TeX -- AMS-LaTeX!% MathType!MTEF!2!1!+-% feaaeaart1ev0aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbbjxAHX% garmWu51MyVXgatuuDJXwAK1uy0HwmaeHbfv3ySLgzG0uy0Hgip5wz% aebbnrfifHhDYfgasaacH8qrps0lbbf9q8WrFfeuY-Hhbbf9v8qqaq% Fr0xc9pk0xbba9q8WqFfea0-yr0RYxir-Jbba9q8aq0-yq-He9q8qq% Q8frFve9Fve9Ff0dmeaabaqaciGacaGaaeqabaWaaeWaeaaakeaada% qadaqaaiaadshadaWgaaWcbaWaaSGbaeaacaqGXaaabaGaaGOmaiaa% bk7aaaaabeaaaOGaayjkaiaawMcaaiaacYcaaaa!3DB6! $${\left( {t_{{{\text{1}} \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{\text{1}} {2{\text{ $ \beta $ }}}}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {2{\text{ $ \beta $ }}}}} } \right)},$$ , total clearance (Clt) and median volume of distribution at equilibrium (Vdss) were calculated using a non-compartment and a two-compartment model for the disposition of piritramide (TOPFIT and NONMEM-pharmacokinetic analysis). Newborns (NB) showed the highest maximum plasma concentrations (median±SD) Cmax (79±240 μg/l) compared to the other three groups (IF1 36±367, IF2 12±81 and YC 16±9 μg/l) without statistical significance. The median elimination half-lives % MathType!Translator!2!1!AMS LaTeX.tdl!TeX -- AMS-LaTeX!% MathType!MTEF!2!1!+-% feaafeart1ev1aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbbjxAHX% garmWu51MyVXgatuuDJXwAK1uy0HwmaeHbfv3ySLgzG0uy0Hgip5wz% aebbnrfifHhDYfgasaacH8qrps0lbbf9q8WrFfeuY-Hhbbf9v8qqaq% Fr0xc9pk0xbba9q8WqFfea0-yr0RYxir-Jbba9q8aq0-yq-He9q8qq% Q8frFve9Fve9Ff0dmeaabaqaciGacaGaaeqabaWaaeWaeaaakeaada% qadaqaaiaadshadaWgaaWcbaWaaSGbaeaacaqGXaaabaGaaeOmaiaa% bk7aaaaabeaaaOGaayjkaiaawMcaaaaa!3D02! $${\left( {t_{{{\text{1}} \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{\text{1}} {{\text{2 $ \beta $ }}}}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {{\text{2 $ \beta $ }}}}} } \right)}$$ were 702±720 min in NB, 157±102 min in IF1, 160±68 min in IF2 and 166±143 min in YC. For % MathType!Translator!2!1!AMS LaTeX.tdl!TeX -- AMS-LaTeX!% MathType!MTEF!2!1!+-% feaafeart1ev1aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbbjxAHX% garmWu51MyVXgatuuDJXwAK1uy0HwmaeHbfv3ySLgzG0uy0Hgip5wz% aebbnrfifHhDYfgasaacH8qrps0lbbf9q8WrFfeuY-Hhbbf9v8qqaq% Fr0xc9pk0xbba9q8WqFfea0-yr0RYxir-Jbba9q8aq0-yq-He9q8qq% Q8frFve9Fve9Ff0dmeaabaqaciGacaGaaeqabaWaaeWaeaaakeaaca% WG0bWaaSbaaSqaamaalyaabaGaaeymaaqaaiaabkdacaqGYoaaaaqa% baaaaa!3B6F! $$t_{{{\text{1}} \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{\text{1}} {{\text{2 $ \beta $ }}}}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {{\text{2 $ \beta $ }}}}} $$ the difference between NB and the other three groups (IF1, IF2 and YC) was statistically significant (Mann-Whitney-U, P<0.05). Clt was 15.9±16.7, 46.6±76.9, 235.5±454.1 and 338±168.1 ml/min in NB, IF1, IF2 and YC respectively. The total clearance increased exponentially with an elimination half-life of 702 min from 15.9 ml/min in NB to 46.6 ml/min in IF2. Differences between the NB/IF1 groups and IF2/YC groups were significantly significant (NB vs. IF2, NB vs. YC, IF1 vs. IF2 and IF1 vs. YC). Vdss was 2.0±4.93, 1.7±2.5, 7.0±5.2 and 6.7±2.2 l/kg in NB, IF1, IF2 and YC respectively. In comparison to group IF1 the Vdss was significantly larger in groups IF2 and YC (Mann-Whitney U, P<0.05). Newborns showed a high initial concentration and a distinct prolongation of the elimination half-life of piritramide compared to infants, young children and adults. Therefore, dosage needed to treat postoperative pain should be reduced, and the repetitive doses should be geared to the analgesic effects. In infants and young children the elimination of piritramide is increased compared to adults; therefore the duration of the effects of piritramide will be shortened, and dose intervals ought to be reduced. Subsequent clinical trials for detailed dose adjustment of piritramide in paediatric patients comparing pharmacokinetics and effectiveness are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the hand of the adsorption of the metal atoms Zn, Cd and Hg on a graphene sheet, we propose a combination of range-separated hybrid density-functional theory in combination with the incremental scheme in localised orbitals and extrapolation procedures for the description of this type of extended systems. Using only dispersion terms for the long-range part, we were able to obtain results comparable to incremental coupled-cluster calculations with singles, doubles and perturbative triples (CCSD(T)). Repulsive three-centre increments reduce the overall correlation contribution to the binding energy by 20 %. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: The non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban are being administered in fixed doses without routine monitoring of anticoagulant activities. Despite this key advantage over vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), assessment of anticoagulant intensities is required in various clinical circumstances. We developed a multi-analyte approach for mass spectrometric analysis of NOACs in human plasma. Methods: Plasma samples were precipitated with acetonitrile. Separation was achieved by liquid chromatography using a C18 column and a gradient elution within a run time of 2.5 min. Positive electrospray ionization was used and ion transitions monitored by a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. Stable-isotope-labeled analogues of analytes were employed as internal standards for quantitative analysis. Certified external quality control samples were obtained for external validation. Results: For all analytes, linearity could be demonstrated over the concentration range of 1-500 µg/L (R²>0.999), and the calculated limits of quantification were <1 µg/L. Results for inter- and intra-day assay precision and true-ness were obtained using internal quality control samples and remained within the acceptance criterion of ±15%. External quality control samples were measured at the specified nominal values with inter- and intra-day precisions <14%. Matrix effects were fully compensated by co-eluting internal standards, which in turn did not relevantly influence ionization efficiency. Conclusions: The method enables rapid and reliable simultaneous determination of NOAC concentrations in human plasma. It was successfully introduced into clinical practice; a case with rivaroxaban overdose is presented to exemplify the method's applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chiral carbosilane-terminated liquid crystal 2-[(2S,3S)-2,3-difluorohexyloxy]-5-[4-(12,12,14,14,16,16-hexamethyl-12,14,16-trisilaheptadecyloxy)phenyl]pyrimidine (QL32-6) undergoes a smectic A*-smectic C* phase transition with a maximum layer contraction of only 0.2%. It exhibits an electroclinic effect (ECE) comparable to that reported for the ‘de Vries-like’ liquid crystal 8422[2F3] and shows no appreciable optical stripe defects due to horizontal chevron formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining classical force fields for the Hartree-Fock (HF) part and the method of increments for post-HF contributions, we calculate the cohesive energy of the ordered and randomly disordered nitrous oxide (N2O) solid. At 0 K, ordered N2O is most favorable with a cohesive energy of −27.7 kJ/mol. At temperatures above 60 K, more disordered structures become compatible and a phase transition to completely disordered N2O is predicted. Comparison with experiment in literature suggests that experimentally prepared N2O crystals are mainly disordered due to a prohibitively high activation energy of ordering processes. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epidermal organs of an undescribed Phascolion species from the Balearic Islands were investigated using SEM, TEM, LM, CLSM and μ CT methods. We found axial receptor cells confirming the previously assumed sensory function of epidermal organs. Our analyses also revealed six types of secretory cells. Some secretory cells types are capable of secreting filamentous and amorphous secretion in two different ways simultaneously (bimodal secretion). The high diversity of cell types, the complex pattern of acinar units, and the absence of a common gland pore make epidermal organs of Phascolion unique amongst sipunculans ( Phascolion type). Our reconstruction of the evolution of the epidermal organs of Sipuncula revealed that Phascolion-type epidermal organs may have derived from either Golfingia-, Sipunculus- or Phascolosoma-type epidermal organs. The oldest known sipunculans were Golfingia-like and had epidermal organs, which might resemble the architecture of the Golfingia-type epidermal organs in extant taxa. Thus, it can be hypothesized that bimodal secretory cells (e.g. basophilic secretory cells) were part of the sipunculan ground pattern. Moreover, bimodal secretory cells of Phascolion look strikingly similar to those found in various annelid glands and thus might even be part of the ground pattern of stem species of Sipuncula + Pleistoannelida. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nonperturbative regime of electron–positron pair creation by a relativistic proton beam colliding with a highly intense bichromatic laser field is studied. The laser wave is composed of a strong low-frequency and a weak high-frequency mode, with mutually orthogonal polarization vectors. We show that the presence of the high-frequency field component can strongly enhance the pair-creation rate. Besides, a characteristic influence of the high-frequency mode on the angular and energy distributions of the created particles is demonstrated, both in the nuclear rest frame and the laboratory frame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We have calculated adsorption energies for N2O on the MgO (001) surface using periodic DFT calculations with the B3LYP functional and subsequent dispersion correction. Additionally a wave function-based correlation treatment at the MP2 level was performed. Whilst the B3LYP calculation failed to find a bond state, both the dispersion corrections and the MP2 treatment result in a significantly better description. The best agreement with experiment is obtained with a dispersion correction via the D3 scheme. The calculated binding energies are very similar for adsorption with the nitrogen or the oxygen end towards the surface, whilst calculated vibrational frequencies of adsorbed N2O match the experimental values better when assuming an O-down adsorption structure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We examined epibenthic and pelagic species of Chaetognatha (Spadellidae and Sagittidae) using immunohistofluorescence and confocal laser scanning microscopy to detect tubulin and cell nuclei in whole-mount preparations and scanning and transmission electron microscopy to visualize the ultrastructural organisation of their ciliary sense organs. All chaetognaths bear three types of ciliary sense organs distributed throughout the body: (1) transversally oriented ciliary fence organs, (2) longitudinally (parallel to the anterior-posterior axis) oriented ciliary tuft organs, and (3) a ciliary loop, the corona ciliata. This study targets the ciliary fence as well as the ciliary tuft organs. Two types of primary receptor cells constitute the ciliary fence and ciliary tuft organs. The first type of receptor cells forms a single cell line along the midline axis of the organs, whereas the second type of receptor cells forms multiple lines of cells at either side of type 1 cells. Each receptor cell extends a single, non-locomotory cilium from its narrow apex collared by slender, non-reinforced microvilli; however, both types of sensory cells considerably differ on ultrastructural level. Type 1 sensory cells have thicker cilia than those protruded by the type 2 sensory cells which are characterized by rootlets consisting of an elongated, amorphous distal as well as a cross-striated proximal portion. These results likely reveal that both types of sensory cells have distinct functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In Chilopoda, solitary epidermal glands are composed of a couple of cells only. These glands are highly abundant on the entire body surface and are distributed throughout the single-layered epidermis. Some authors provided more or less comprehensive observations on the structure of epidermal glands of specific chilopod taxa. However, no information is hitherto available on the ultrastructural diversity of these glands. Furthermore, potential homologies of these chilopod epidermal glands and of their characteristic cellular components remain unknown. Based on our results, we are now able to distinguish two types of epidermal glands in Chilopoda that can be clearly distinguished by their structure and the course of their conducting canal: recto-canal epidermal glands (rceg) and flexo-canal epidermal glands (fceg). In the present paper, we focus on the rceg. We examined the ultrastructural organization of these glands in the head region and on the anterior trunk segments of various representatives of the five extant chilopod orders by light- and electron-microscopy. According to our terminology, rceg consist of up to five different cell types including: a) distal canal cells, b) proximal canal cells, c) intermediary cells, and d) two different types of secretory cells. Intermediary and canal cells form a common conducting canal. The rceg may taxon-specifically differ in relative size and subcellular architecture, but all have the following features in common: 1) a wide distribution on various body regions among all five chilopod subtaxa, 2) the straight, broad and locally dilated conducting canal surrounded by closely packed microvilli or microvilliform infoldings around the apex of the canal cell(s), and 3) the tendency to aggregate to form compound glandular organs of massive size and complexity. Tricellular glandular units established by three different cell types are observed in Scutigeromorpha and Geophilomorpha, whereas four cell types constitute rceg in Lithobiomorpha and Craterostigmomorpha. Five different cell types per glandular unit are found only in Scolopendromorpha. The partial cuticularization of the lower part of the conducting canal formed by the intermediary cell, as found in Chilopoda, differs from the pattern described for equivalent euarthropod epidermal glands, as for instance in Hexapoda. Their wide distribution in Chilopoda and Progoneata makes it likely that tricellular rceg were at least present in the last common ancestor of the Myriapoda. Concerning Chilopoda, the evolution of highly diverse rceg is well explained on the basis of the Pleurostigmophora concept. Glands of the recto-canal type are also found in other arthropods. The paper discusses cases where homology of rceg and also fceg may be assumed beyond Myriapoda and briefly evaluates the potentials and the still-to-be-solved issues prior to use them as an additional character system to reconstruct the phylogeny of the Euarthropoda. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The fossil record and especially examples of fossilized ontogeny have been described for many major arthropod taxa. However, little is yet known about ontogeny in fossil representatives of Myriapoda. Traditionally, taxonomy has focused on adult stages, and tends to 'overlook' non-adults. Assigning an early stage to a specific species would demand having 'bridging' juvenile stages. Additionally, as shown for other fossil arthropods, juvenile stages of a given species could have been recognized as separate species in the past. In this context, palaeo-evo-devo links evolutionary developmental knowledge with paleontological evidence. We report a nymphal lithobiomorph centipede from Baltic amber. The specimen was documented under cross-polarized light combined with image stacking. Stereo images were created based on these image stacks. Assessable characters are described and compared with data on extant lithobiomorph taxa. We conclude that the nymph (or larva) described here can be assigned to Lithobiidae and probably represents the fourth post-embryonic stadium. Findings such as that described here are still rare and detailed descriptions are not usually provided. The accessible data therefore represent an important example of fossilized ontogeny for centipedes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Laser-induced nuclear recollisions following α decay in the presence of an intense laser field are investigated theoretically. We show that while an intense optical laser does not influence notably the tunneling rate in α decay, it can completely change the α particle spectrum. For intensities of , the field is strong enough to induce recollisions between the emitted α particle and the daughter nucleus. The energy gained by the α particle in the field can reach 20 MeV and suffice to trigger several types of nuclear reactions on a femtosecond time scale. Similar conclusions can be drawn about laser-induced recollisions after proton emission. Prospects for the experimental realization of laser-induced nuclear recollisions are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: While research on exercise interventions during anticancer treatment is well-established in adults, only very few studies exist in children. However, pediatric patients experience great limitations to being physically active, and appropriate interventions are desired. Procedure: The present study aimed at investigating the effects of individualized exercise interventions during inpatient stays on pediatric patients with a malignant bone tumor. The parameter of interest was physical activity (PA). Patients' PA during home stays was assessed 6 weeks as well as 3, 6, 12, and 18 months post-surgery. Patients were distinguished into an intervention group and a control group. All patients received endoprosthetic replacement of the affected bone in the same institution. Results: A constant increase in all PA parameters was observed during follow-up. Exercise interventions were possible and appeared worthwhile. The intervention group showed better PA results at all measurements; however, no significant differences between groups were found. Furthermore, differences decreased especially after the cessation of the intervention. General problems in reaching appropriate power and compliance were observed. Conclusions: Individualized exercise interventions in pediatric bone tumor patients are possible and appear to be beneficial. Such interventions should be implemented in adjuvant care; however, future research is needed to understand more about the effects of different interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We have characterised the Lewis acidity of unsaturated surface cations of MgF2 crystals using periodic calculations at the B3LYP level. The relative importance of low index surfaces was determined by calculating surface energies, and these surfaces were then probed by CO adsorption. We found that a MgF2 microcrystal should expose mainly (110), (100) and (101) surfaces in which the undercoordinated cations are fivefold coordinated. The adsorption energies and CO stretching frequencies are discussed with respect to the coordination number of surface cations and the stability of the surfaces and are compared to IR spectra from the literature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Proton emissio n from nuclei via the nuclear photoeffect in the combined electromagnetic fields of a γ-ray photon and an intense laser wave is studied. An S-matrix approach to the process is developed by utilizing methods known from the theory of nonperturbative laser-atom interactions. As a specific example, photo-proton ejection from halo nuclei is considered. We show that, due to the presence of the laser field, rich sideband structures arise in the photo-proton energy spectra. Their dependence on the parameters and relative orientation of the photon fields is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharmacokinetics of 8 doses of rituximab (375 mg/m2) given in combination with 2-week cyclophosphamide, hydroxydaunorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone/ prednisolone (CHOP-14) was determined by ELISA in 20 elderly patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) 10 minutes before and after each infusion and 1 week and 1, 2, 3, 6, and 9 months after the last infusion. Population pharmacokinetic modeling was performed with nonlinear mixed-effect modeling software (NONMEM VI). Concentration-time data were fitted into an open 2-compartment model and total clearance, central compartment volume, intercompartment clearance, and volume of distribution at steady-state (Vdss) were investigated. Total clearance was 9.43 mL/h and Vd5S was 9.61 I. Rituximab clearance was reduced (8.21 mL/h vs 12.68 mL/h; P= .003) and elimination half-life was prolonged in women compared with men (t1/2&bgr; = 30.7 vs 24.7 days; p; = .003). Body weight also affected Vdss (0.1 I increase of Vdss per kilogram above median of 75 kg). A sexdependent effect and the higher weight of males contribute to their faster rituximab clearance, which might explain why elderly males benefit less from the addition of rituximab to CHOP than females. This trial was registered on www.clinicaltrials. gov as numbers NCT00052936, EU-20243 (RICOVER-60 Trial), EU-20534, and NCT00726700 (Pegf ilgrastim Trial) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The two lemon-shaped compound eyes of the moth Cameraria ohridella measure in dorsal-ventral direction 263.0 μm in male and 238.9 μm in female individuals. In anterior-posterior direction no significant differences were found between the sexes, eye length being about 194.6 μm. The eyes of males consist of ca. 417 hexagonal facets, while those of females contain 367. In both sexes facet diameters are approximately 11.5 μm. Despite the size differences of the eyes in the two sexes, ultrastructurally they are identical and both possess ommatidia of 80 μm mean length. The ultrastructure of the eye is described and compared with that of other compound eyes of Lepidoptera. Anatomically the eyes represent a type intermediate between apposition and refractive superposition kind. A distal rhabdom is present in the space that in the eyes of larger moths with superposition optics is occupied by the so-called clear zone. A tracheal tapetum and longitudinal screening pigment migrations, typical of superposition but not apposition eyes are present despite the lack of a clear zone. Thus, our results support an earlier calculated minimal theoretical limit for superposition eyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron-positron pair annihilation into a single photon is studied when a second free electron is present. Focussing on the relativistic regime, we show that the photon emitted in the three-lepton interaction may exhibit distinct angular distributions and polarization properties. Moreover, the process can dominate over two-photon annihilation in relativistic electron-positron plasmas of few-MeV tem- perature. An analogy with three-body recombination of electrons with ions is drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bracing is an established method of conservative treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and kyphosis. Compliance among adolescents is frequently inadequate due to the discomfort of wearing a brace, cosmetic issues, and fear on the part of patients and parents that bracing may reduce everyday physical activities. The aim of this prospective, controlled study was to objectify the impact of spinal bracing on daily step activity in patients receiving conservative treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) or adolescent kyphosis (AK). Forty-eight consecutive patients (mean age 13.4 ± 2.3 years), consisting of 38 AIS patients (33 girls, 5 boys) and 10 AK patients (6 girls, 4 boys) were included. Once the decision to carry out bracing had been taken and while the patients were waiting for the individual brace to be built, step activity was assessed without braces by means of step activity monitoring (SAM) for seven consecutive days. After 8 weeks of brace wearing, step activity was assessed during regular brace treatment, again for seven consecutive days. In addition, brace-wearing times were simultaneously recorded using temperature probes implanted in the braces to measure compliance. Before and during brace treatment, patients completed the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22) questionnaire. The SAM was worn for an average of 12.7 ± 1.5 h/day during the first measurement and 12.3 ± 1.9 h on average during the second measurement. The mean gait cycles (GCs) per day and per hour before treatment were 5,036 ± 1,465 and 395 ± 105, respectively. No significant reduction in step activity was found at the follow-up measurement during bracing, at 4,880 ± 1,529 GCs/day and 403 ± 144 GCs/h. Taking the 23-h recommended time for brace wearing as a basis (100%), patients wore the brace for 72.7 ± 27.6% of the prescribed time, indicating an acceptable level of compliance. Girls showed a higher compliance level (75.6 ± 25.6%) in comparison with boys (56.7 ± 31.9%), although the difference was not significant ( P = 0.093). The SRS-22 total score showed no differences between the two measurements (2.57 ± 0.23 vs. 2.56 ± 0.28). Implementing a simultaneous and objective method of assessing step activity and brace-wearing times in everyday life proved to be feasible, and it expands the information available regarding the impact of bracing on patients' quality of life. The results clearly show that brace treatment does not negatively interfere with daily step activity in AIS and AK patients. This is an important finding that should help reduce patients' and parents' worries concerning bracing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antifungal prophylaxis during first remission induction chemotherapy for acute myelogenous leukaemia requires broad spectrum azoles. In a clinical trial, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of antifungal prophylaxis with voriconazole 200 mg bid was evaluated in a population of six patients. High pressure liquid chromatography was applied. Trough levels were obtained 24 h after the last voriconazole dose. Median time of voriconazole exposure prior to sample acquisition was 16 days (range 9-21). The mean voriconazole concentration was 486 μg l and ranged from 136 μg l to 1257 μg l. Among possible or probable treatment-related adverse events, elevated liver function tests were the most frequent. Five of six patients developed fever during neutropenia, but none of them developed pulmonary infiltrates or other signs of invasive fungal infection while on voriconazole prophylaxis. Future investigations might aim at identifying drug level thresholds that allow for minimum toxicity and optimum efficacy of antifungal prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollutants as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are of worldwide concern, due to their detrimental effects on the physiology and behaviour of wildlife. One major source of EDCs is sewage treatment works which serve as foraging grounds for many bird species. However, the risks of consuming EDCs to wild birds at these sites have been largely overlooked. We have previously quantified contamination levels of invertebrates from within filter beds of sewage treatment works and the intake rates of these invertebrates by wild European starlings feeding at these sites. Our work to date has shown that environmentally-relevant EDC exposure results in reduced immunocompetence, increased song behaviour and neural development in adult starlings. In the present study, we hypothesized that nestling starlings exposed to similar EDC levels from contaminated prey, from parental feeding at sewage treatment works, would show altered growth and physiology. Our findings show that EDC exposure results in reduced growth and immunocompetence in nestling birds. However, there was no effect on corticosterone or haematocrit levels. As growth rates and immunocompetence are likely to be related to survival rates, we suggest that these exposure levels are likely to adversely affect recruitment into the adult population. Synthesis and applications. These results highlight the potential transfer of EDCs between semi-aquatic or aquatic organisms and terrestrial organisms up the food chain at sites of sewage treatment works, broadening the scope of potential routes of exposure. Our findings suggest that birds foraging in these sites are at risk of physiological manipulation from EDCs and reduced body condition as a result. We advocate further work to evaluate the potential for EDCs from sewage treatment works to bioaccumulate and modulate the condition of wild organisms feeding on contaminated prey. Our results suggest that changes in management practices of sewage treatment works are required. We support measures to reduce EDC levels in sewage treatment works and that these sites should be designed to exclude or deter wildlife from foraging on contaminated prey. The management implications of such policy - oriented steps will ensure the health of wildlife foraging at sewage treatment works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The production of charged pion pairs via multiphoton absorption from an intense X-ray laser wave colliding with an ultrarelativistic proton beam is studied. Our calculations include the contributions from both the electromagnetic and hadronic interactions where the latter are described approximately by a phenomenological meson-exchange potential. Order-of-magnitude estimates for production on the proton by two- and three-photon absorption from the high-frequency laser field are obtained and compared with the corresponding rates for pair creation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: Pulmonary retransplantation remains controversial due to the increased morbidity and mortality compared with primary lung transplantation. So far, only few data about paediatric retransplantation are available. We retrospectively analysed our experience with retransplantations in children. Methods: Since 1994, seven pulmonary retransplantations in children were performed at our institution. We analysed pretransplant characteristics, operative parameters as well as the post-transplant outcome of these recipients and compared them to 29 patients who underwent primary lung transplantation during the same period. Results: Indications for retransplantation were bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome in six patients and primary graft failure in one patient. Pretransplant characteristics, perioperative morbidity and mortality were similar in both groups. Hospital mortality was 2/7 (29%) after retransplantation and 6/29 (21%) after primary transplantation (p =0.64). Actuarial 3-year survival was 71% and 60% after redo and primary transplantation, respectively (p =0.50). Development of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome did not differ between both groups (p =0.99). Conclusions: In our small cohort of paediatric patients, pulmonary retransplantation was associated with an acceptable long-term outcome comparable to primary pulmonary transplantation. This differs from currently available data. However, further long-term studies including more patients and longer follow-up intervals are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The influence of the electron spin degree of freedom on nonperturbative electron–positron pair production by high-energy proton impact on an intense laser field of circular polarization is analyzed. Predictions from the Dirac and Klein–Gordon theories are compared and a spin-resolved calculation is performed. We show that the various spin configurations possess very different production probabilities and discuss the transfer of helicity in this highly nonlinear process. Our predictions could be tested by combining the few-TeV proton beam at CERN-LHC with an intense laser pulse from a table-top petawatt laser source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vineatrol(R)30 (developed and produced jointly by Breko GmbH [Bremen, Germany] and Actichem [Montauban, France]) is a grapevine-shoot extract that contains resveratrol as well as considerable amounts of resveratrol oligomers. In the present study it is shown that Vineatrol30 at a noncytotoxic concentration of 2.3 [mu]g/mL significantly reduced the number of malignantly transformed foci induced by a sequential treatment of BALB/c-3T3 cells with 3-methylcholanthrene and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate in the so-called BALB/c-3T3 cell transformation assay. At a higher concentration Vineatrol30 drastically decreased the relative plating efficiency of the cells. Furthermore, the results suggest that the resveratrol oligomers present in Vineatrol30, independently from resveratrol itself, were indeed able to inhibit the formation of malignantly transformed BALB/c-3T3 foci. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By the use of directed limitations of secondary substrates, the metabolic flux should be deflected from biomass production to product formation. In order to study the impact of directed limitations caused by various secondary substrates on the growth and product formation of the methylotrophic yeast Hansenula polymorpha, the cultivation systems respiration activity monitoring system (RAMOS) and BioLector were used in parallel. While the RAMOS device allows the online monitoring of the oxygen transfer rate in shake flasks, the BioLector enables in microtiter plates the monitoring of scattered light and the fluorescence intensity of the green fluorescent protein (GFP). Secondary substrate limitations of phosphate, potassium, and magnesium were analyzed in batch fermentations. The sole carbon source was either 10 g/L glucose or 10 g/L glycerol. The expression of the GFP gene is controlled by the FMD promoter (formate dehydrogenase). In batch cultures with glucose as carbon source, a directed limitation of phosphate increased the GFP production 1.87-fold, compared to phosphate unlimited conditions. Under potassium-limited conditions with glycerol as sole carbon source, the GFP production was 1.41-fold higher compared to unlimited conditions. A limitation of the substrate magnesium resulted in a 1.22-fold increase GFP formation in the case of glycerol as carbon source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Paired mushroom bodies, an unpaired central complex, and bilaterally arranged clusters of olfactory glomeruli are among the most distinctive components of arthropod neuroarchitecture. Mushroom body neuropils, unpaired midline neuropils, and olfactory glomeruli also occur in the brains of some polychaete annelids, showing varying degrees of morphological similarity to their arthropod counterparts. Attempts to elucidate the evolutionary origin of these neuropils and to deduce an ancestral ground pattern of annelid cerebral complexity are impeded by the incomplete knowledge of annelid phylogeny and by a lack of comparative neuroanatomical data for this group. The present account aims to provide new morphological data for a broad range of annelid taxa in order to trace the occurrence and variability of higher brain centers in segmented worms. Results: Immunohistochemically stained preparations provide comparative neuroanatomical data for representatives from 22 annelid species. The most prominent neuropil structures to be encountered in the annelid brain are the paired mushroom bodies that occur in a number of polychaete taxa. Mushroom bodies can in some cases be demonstrated to be closely associated with clusters of spheroid neuropils reminiscent of arthropod olfactory glomeruli. Less distinctive subcompartments of the annelid brain are unpaired midline neuropils that bear a remote resemblance to similar components in the arthropod brain. The occurrence of higher brain centers such as mushroom bodies, olfactory glomeruli, and unpaired midline neuropils seems to be restricted to errant polychaetes. Conclusions: The implications of an assumed homology between annelid and arthropod mushroom bodies are discussed in light of the 'new animal phylogeny'. It is concluded that the apparent homology of mushroom bodies in distantly related groups has to be interpreted as a plesiomorphy, pointing towards a considerably complex neuroarchitecture inherited from the last common ancestor, Urbilateria. Within the annelid radiation, the lack of mushroom bodies in certain groups is explained by widespread secondary reductions owing to selective pressures unfavorable for the differentiation of elaborate brains. Evolutionary pathways of mushroom body neuropils in errant polychaetes remain enigmatic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bone mineral density (BMD) accrual during childhood and adolescence is important for attaining peak bone mass. BMD decrements have been reported in survivors of childhood bone sarcomas. However, little is known about the onset and development of bone loss during cancer treatment. The objective of this crosssectional study was to evaluate BMD in newly diagnosed Ewing's and osteosarcoma patients by means of dualenergy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) after completion of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Methods: DXA measurements of the lumbar spine (L2-4), both femora and calcanei were performed perioperatively in 46 children and adolescents (mean age: 14.3 years, range: 8.6-21.5 years). Mean Z-scores, areal BMD (g/cm²), calculated volumetric BMD (g/cm³) and bone mineral content (BMC, g) were determined. Results: Lumbar spine mean Z-score was -0.14 (95% CI: -0.46 to 0.18), areal BMD was 1.016 g/cm² (95% CI: 0.950 to 1.082) and volumetric BMD was 0.330 g/cm³ (95% CI: 0.314 to 0.347) which is comparable to healthy peers. For patients with a lower extremity tumor (n = 36), the difference between the affected and non-affected femoral neck was 12.1% (95% CI: -16.3 to -7.9) in areal BMD. The reduction of BMD was more pronounced in the calcaneus with a difference between the affected and contralateral side of 21.7% (95% CI: -29.3 to -14.0) for areal BMD. Furthermore, significant correlations for femoral and calcaneal DXA measurements were found with Spearman-rho coefficients ranging from r = 0.55 to r = 0.80. Conclusions: The tumor disease located in the lower extremity in combination with offloading recommendations induced diminished BMD values, indicating local osteopenia conditions. However, the results revealed no significant decrements of lumbar spine BMD in pediatric sarcoma patients after completion of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Nevertheless, it has to be taken into account that bone tumor patients may experience BMD decrements or secondary osteoporosis in later life. Furthermore, the peripheral assessment of BMD in the calcaneus via DXA is a feasible approach to quantify bone loss in the lower extremity in bone sarcoma patients and may serve as an alternative procedure, when the established assessment of femoral BMD is not practicable due to endoprosthetic replacements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to present tests that are suitable to perform as an assessment of the quality of embedded-cluster models for ionic surfaces. Bulk and surface clusters of CeO2 were constructed and the embedding quality was evaluated as a function of cluster size and stoichiometry. Out of the properties evaluated, it is found that the difference electron density (between the embedded cluster model and an equivalent periodic slab model), as well as the electrostatic potential above the surface are very sensitive to the embedding quality and can successfully be used as selection tools in the quality assessment. This was confirmed by subsequent CO2 physisorption calculations for a number of embedded CeO2(111) clusters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]