bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural History of Renal Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: A NET by Any Other Name?
Authors: Nguyen Andrew H. , O’Leary Michael P. , De Andrade James P. , Ituarte Philip H. G. , Kessler Jonathan , Li Daneng , Singh Gagandeep , Chang Sue
Published: February 2021

Renal neuroendocrine neoplasms are rare, with descriptions of cases limited to individual reports and small series. The natural history of this group of neuroendocrine neoplasms is poorly understood. In this study, we queried the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database over a four-decade period where we identified 166 cases of primary renal neuroendocrine neoplasms. We observed a 5-year overall survival of 50%. On multivariate analysis, survival was influenced by stage, histology, and if surgery was performed. We observed that patients managed by operative management had a greater frequency of localized or regional stage disease as well as a greater frequency of neuroendocrine tumor, grade 1 histology; whereas those managed non-operatively tended to have distant disease and histologies of neuroendocrine carcinoma, NOS and small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. This is the largest description of patients with renal neuroendocrine neoplasms. Increased survival was observed in patients with earlier stage and favorable histologies.
High-Performance All-Solid-State Lithium–Sulfur Batteries Enabled by Slurry-Coated Li6PS5Cl/S/C Composite Electrodes
Authors: Zheng Chao , Wang Kai , Li Lujie , Huang Hui , Liang Chu , Gan Yongping , He Xinping , Zhang Wenkui , Zhang Jun
Published: February 2021

Among many lithium secondary batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries stand out because of their high theoretical specific energy, low cost, non-toxicity and the fact that they cause no environmental pollution. However, due to poor electronic and ionic conductivity, shuttle effect, lithium dendrites and other defects, it remains a big challenge to achieve large-scale application of lithium-sulfur batteries. Here we report an all-solid-state lithium–sulfur battery based on Li-argyrodite Li6PS5Cl solid-state electrolytes through a slurry-coating method. Li6PS5Cl with a high ionic conductivity of 1.3 × 10–3 S cm−1 at room temperature is used as the solid electrolyte and the ion conductive additive in the electrode. The sulfur-based composite cathode is fabricated through a slurry-coating process by dispersing sulfur, Li6PS5Cl, ethyl cellulose, and carbon black in 1,3-dioxolane (DOL). This method can disperse the Li6PS5Cl around sulfur particles well, and the solvent does not react with any component of composite cathodes during preparation. The battery delivers a high discharge capacity of 962 mA h g−1 at room temperature for the first cycle at 80 mA g−1. While the Coulombic eﬃciency is approximately 99.5% during 100 cycles. This work provides a new insight into the combination method between the sulfide-type SSEs and sulfur cathodes, which is critical to the electrochemical performance of all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries.
The Distinct Function of p21Waf1/Cip1 With p16Ink4a in Modulating Aging Phenotypes of Werner Syndrome by Affecting Tissue Homeostasis
Authors: Zhang Yongjin , Shao Chihao , Li Haili , Wu Kun , Gong Lixin , Zheng Quan , Dan Juhua , Jia Shuting , Tang Xiaodan , Wu Xiaoming , Luo Ying
Published: February 2021

Human Werner syndrome (WS) is an autosomal recessive progeria disease. A mouse model of WS manifests the disease through telomere dysfunction-induced aging phenotypes, which might result from cell cycle control and cellular senescence. Both p21Waf1/Cip1 (p21, encoded by the Cdkn1a gene) and p16Ink4a (p16, encoded by the Ink4a gene) are cell cycle inhibitors and are involved in regulating two key pathways of cellular senescence. To test the effect of p21 and p16 deficiencies in WS, we crossed WS mice (DKO) with p21–/– or p16–/– mice to construct triple knockout (p21-TKO or p16-TKO) mice. By studying the survival curve, bone density, regenerative tissue (testis), and stem cell capacity (intestine), we surprisingly found that p21-TKO mice displayed accelerated premature aging compared with DKO mice, while p16-TKO mice showed attenuation of the aging phenotypes. The incidence of apoptosis and cellular senescence were upregulated in p21-TKO mice tissue and downregulated in p16-TKO mice. Surprisingly, cellular proliferation in p21-TKO mice tissue was also upregulated, and the p21-TKO mice did not show telomere shortening compared with age-matched DKO mice, although p16-TKO mice displayed obvious enhancement of telomere lengthening. Consistent with these phenotypes, the SIRT1-PGC1 pathway was upregulated in p16-TKO but downregulated in p21-TKO compared with DKO mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs). However, the DNA damage response pathway was highly activated in p21-TKO, but rescued in p16-TKO, compared with DKO MEFs. These data suggest that p21 protected the stem cell reservoir by regulating cellular proliferation and turnover at a proper rate and that p21 loss in WS activated fairly severe DNA damage responses (DDR), which might cause an abnormal increase in tissue homeostasis. On the other hand, p16 promoted cellular senescence by inhibiting cellular proliferation, and p16 deficiency released this barrier signal without causing severe DDR.
A Novel SNP-STR System Based on a Capillary Electrophoresis Platform
Authors: Jian Hui , Wang Li , Lv Meili , Tan Yu , Zhang Ranran , Qu Shengqiu , Wang Jijun , Zha Lagabaiyila , Zhang Lin , Liang Weibo
Published: February 2021

Various compound markers encompassing two or more variants within a small region can be regarded as generalized microhaplotypes. Many of these markers have been investigated for various forensic purposes, such as individual identification, deconvolution of DNA mixtures, or forensic ancestry inference. SNP-STR is a compound biomarker composed of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and a closely linked short tandem repeat polymorphism (STR), and possess the advantages of both SNPs and STRs. In addition, in conjunction with a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique based on the amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS), SNP-STRs can be used for forensic unbalanced DNA mixture analysis based on capillary electrophoresis (CE), which is the most commonly used platform in worldwide forensic laboratories. Our previous research reported 11 SNP-STRs, but few of them are derived from the commonly used STR loci, for which existing STR databases can be used as a reference. For maximum compatibility with existing DNA databases, in this study, we screened 18 SNP-STR loci, of which 14 were derived from the expanded CODIS core loci set. Stable and sensitive SNP-STR multiplex PCR panels based on the CE platform were established. Assays on simulated two-person DNA mixtures showed that all allele-specific primers could detect minor DNA components in 1:500 mixtures. Population data based on 113 unrelated Chengdu Han individuals were investigated. A Bayesian framework was developed for the likelihood ratio (LR) evaluation of SNP-STR profiling results obtained from two-person mixtures. Furthermore, we report on the first use of SNP-STRs in casework to show the advantages and limitations for use in practice. Compared to 2.86 × 103 for autosomal STR kits, the combined LR reached 7.14 × 107 using the SNP-STR method in this casework example.
Activation of the Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathway as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy for COVID-19
Authors: Qin Zhen , Xiang Kefa , Su Ding-Feng , Sun Yang , Liu Xia
Published: February 2021

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) underlined the urgent need for alleviating cytokine storm. We propose here that activating the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) is a potential therapeutic strategy. However, there is currently no approved drugs targeting the regulatory pathway. It is evident that nicotine, anisodamine and some herb medicine, activate the CAP and exert anti-inflammation action in vitro and in vivo. As the vagus nerve affects both inflammation and specific immune response, we propose that vagus nerve stimulation by invasive or non-invasive devices and acupuncture at ST36, PC6, or GV20, are also feasible approaches to activate the CAP and control COVID-19. It is worth to investigate the efficacy and safety of the strategy in patients with COVID-19.
Identification of Neuronal Pentraxins as Synaptic Binding Partners of C1q and the Involvement of NP1 in Synaptic Pruning in Adult Mice
Authors: Kovács Réka Á. , Vadászi Henrietta , Bulyáki Éva , Török György , Tóth Vilmos , Mátyás Dominik , Kun Judit , Hunyadi-Gulyás Éva , Fedor Flóra Zsófia , Csincsi Ádám , Medzihradszky Katalin , Homolya László , Juhász Gábor , Kékesi Katalin A. , Józsi Mihály , Györffy Balázs A. , Kardos József
Published: February 2021

Elements of the immune system particularly that of innate immunity, play important roles beyond their traditional tasks in host defense, including manifold roles in the nervous system. Complement-mediated synaptic pruning is essential in the developing and healthy functioning brain and becomes aberrant in neurodegenerative disorders. C1q, component of the classical complement pathway, plays a central role in tagging synapses for elimination; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms and interaction partners are mostly unknown. Neuronal pentraxins (NPs) are involved in synapse formation and plasticity, moreover, NP1 contributes to cell death and neurodegeneration under adverse conditions. Here, we investigated the potential interaction between C1q and NPs, and its role in microglial phagocytosis of synapses in adult mice. We verified in vitro that NPs interact with C1q, as well as activate the complement system. Flow cytometry, immunostaining and co-immunoprecipitation showed that synapse-bound C1q colocalizes and interacts with NPs. High-resolution confocal microscopy revealed that microglia-surrounded C1q-tagged synapses are NP1 positive. We have also observed the synaptic occurrence of C4 suggesting that activation of the classical pathway cannot be ruled out in synaptic plasticity in healthy adult animals. In summary, our results indicate that NPs play a regulatory role in the synaptic function of C1q. Whether this role can be intensified upon pathological conditions, such as in Alzheimer’s disease, is to be disclosed.
Developing a 3D B Cell Lymphoma Culture System to Model Antibody Therapy
Authors: Foxall Russell , Narang Priyanka , Glaysher Bridget , Hub Elin , Teal Emma , Coles Mark C. , Ashton-Key Margaret , Beers Stephen A. , Cragg Mark S.
Published: February 2021

Diffuse large cell B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) accounts for approximately 30%–40% of all non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) cases. Current first line DLBCL treatment results in long-term remission in more than 60% of cases. However, those patients with primary refractory disease or early relapse exhibit poor prognosis, highlighting a requirement for alternative therapies. Our aim was to develop a novel model of DLBCL that facilitates in vitro testing of current and novel therapies by replicating key components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in a three-dimensional (3D) culture system that would enable primary DLBCL cell survival and study ex vivo. The TME is a complex ecosystem, comprising malignant and non-malignant cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) whose reciprocal crosstalk drives tumor initiation and growth while fostering an immunosuppressive milieu enabling its persistence. The requirement to recapitulate, at least to some degree, this complex, interactive network is exemplified by the rapid cell death of primary DLBCL cells removed from their TME and cultured alone in vitro. Building on previously described methodologies to generate lymphoid-like fibroblasts from adipocyte derived stem cells (ADSC), we confirmed lymphocytes, specifically B cells, interacted with this ADSC-derived stroma, in the presence or absence of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM), in both two-dimensional (2D) cultures and a 3D collagen-based spheroid system. Furthermore, we demonstrated that DLBCL cells cultured in this system interact with its constituent components, resulting in their improved viability as compared to ex-vivo 2D monocultures. We then assessed the utility of this system as a platform to study therapeutics in the context of antibody-directed phagocytosis, using rituximab as a model immunotherapeutic antibody. Overall, we describe a novel 3D spheroid co-culture system comprising key components of the DLBCL TME with the potential to serve as a testbed for novel therapeutics, targeting key cellular constituents of the TME, such as CAF and/or TAM.
Advances in the Estimation of Global Surface Net Heat Flux Based on Satellite Observation: J-OFURO3 V1.1
Authors: Tomita Hiroyuki , Kutsuwada Kunio , Kubota Masahisa , Hihara Tsutomu
Published: February 2021

The reliability of surface net heat flux data obtained from the latest satellite-based estimation [the third-generation Japanese Ocean Flux Data Sets with Use of Remote Sensing Observations (J-OFURO3, V1.1)] was investigated. Three metrics were utilized: (1) the global long-term (30 years) mean for 1988–2017, (2) the local accuracy evaluation based on comparison with observations recorded at buoys located at 11 global oceanic points with varying climatological characteristics, and (3) the physical consistency with the freshwater balance related to the global water cycle. The globally averaged value of the surface net heat flux of J-OFURO3 was −22.2 W m−2, which is largely imbalanced to heat the ocean surface. This imbalance was due to the turbulent heat flux being smaller than the net downward surface radiation. On the other hand, compared with the local buoy observations, the average difference was −5.8 W m−2, indicating good agreement. These results indicate a paradox of the global surface net heat flux. In relation to the global water cycle, the balance between surface latent heat flux (ocean evaporation) and precipitation was estimated to be almost 0 when river runoff from the land was taken into consideration. The reliability of the estimation of the latent heat flux was reconciled by two different methods. Systematic ocean-heating biases by surface sensible heat flux (SHF) and long wave radiation were identified. The bias in the SHF was globally persistent and especially large in the mid- and high latitudes. The correction of the bias has an impact on improving the global mean net heat flux by +5.5 W m−2. Furthermore, since J-OFURO3 SHF has low data coverage in high-latitudes areas containing sea ice, its impact on global net heat flux was assessed using the latest atmospheric reanalysis product. When including the sea ice region, the globally averaged value of SHF was approximately 1.4 times larger. In addition to the bias correction mentioned above, when assuming that the global ocean average of J3 SHF is 1.4 times larger, the net heat flux value changes to the improved value (−11.3 W m−2), which is approximately half the original value (−22.2 W m−2).
Long-Term Acoustic Monitoring Reveals Site Fidelity, Reproductive Migrations, and Sex Specific Differences in Habitat Use and Migratory Timing in a Large Coastal Shark (Negaprion acutidens)
Authors: Pillans Richard D. , Rochester Wayne , Babcock Russell C. , Thomson Damian P. , Haywood Michael D. E. , Vanderklift Mathew A.
Published: February 2021

Knowledge of the movement patterns of the lemon shark Negaprion acutidens is poor in contrast to the allopatric N. brevirostis. Using acoustic telemetry, we investigated daily (diel and tidal) and seasonal patterns in residency, fidelity, home range, habitat preference, and migratory patterns along the Ningaloo coast, Australia. Thirty eight adult N. acutidens were monitored for up 6.1 years (mean 2.5 y) with 19 animals detected for more than 3 years and 5 for more than 5 y. Approximately 50% of the tagged animals remained within 10 km of their tagging location for more than 12 months (average core home range of 1.7 km2). Surprisingly, residency of adults was greater than juveniles in this known nursery area. Adults showed a strong preference for lagoon habitats and moved into shallow nearshore habitats at high tide and at night. During winter months, female sharks shifted their core home range 0.45 km further offshore into deeper lagoon areas, a shift which is likely due to behavioral thermoregulation. Space use by males and females within core areas was asynchronous indicating sexual segregation by resident sharks. Both resident and non-resident sharks were detected up to 140 km away. These highly directional (southerly) and rapid movements (140 km in 2 days) were largely correlated with the parturition and mating periods with males departing 1–2 months earlier than females. In females, periodicity of migrations was variable with evidence of annual and biannual patterns. Negaprion acutidens are highly susceptible to over-fishing and movement data are essential to quantify spatio-temporal overlap with fisheries and assist with developing spatially explicit stock assessment models.
Rational Design and Fabrication of Biomimetic Hierarchical Scaffolds With Bone-Matchable Strength for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Lian Ruixian , Xie Peng , Xiao Lan , Iqbal Zoya , Zhang Shihao , Kohn Joachim , Qu Xue , Liu Changsheng , Li Yulin
Published: February 2021

The development of scaffolds with bone-mimicking compositions, hierarchical structure, and bone-matchable mechanical properties may offer a novel route for the achievement of effective bone regeneration. Although bioactive glasses have been widely utilized for bone regeneration at the clinical level, their brittleness and uncontrolled pore structure limit further applications. Herein, this study aims to develop a kind of bioactive scaffold with a macroporous/microporous/mesoporous structure via impregnating a sponge template with mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) sol, followed by sponge template removal. In order to improve the mechanical properties and stability of the MBG scaffolds, desaminotyrosyl ethyl tyrosine polycarbonates (PDTEC), a biodegradable polymer which does not induce acid side-effects caused by conventional polylactide, was selected to decorate the resulting hierarchical scaffolds through a surface coating approach. The PDTEC functionalization endowed the scaffolds with improved mechanical strength matching the bearable range of trabecular bone (2–12 MPa). Meanwhile, the relative neutral pH value was maintained during their degradation process. In vitro studies demonstrated that the PDTEC accelerated the biomineralization of the scaffolds, and promoted the attachment and proliferation, holding high promise for bone regeneration.
The Role of Cancer Stem Cells in Drug Resistance in Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Dinneen Kate , Baird Anne-Marie , Ryan Ciara , Sheils Orla
Published: February 2021

Gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinomas (GEJA) have dramatically increased in incidence in the western world since the mid-20th century. Their prognosis is poor, and conventional anti-cancer therapies do not significantly improve survival outcomes. These tumours are comprised of a heterogenous population of both cancer stem cells (CSC) and non-CSCs, with the former playing a crucial role in tumorigenesis, metastasis and importantly drug resistance. Due to the ability of CSCs to self-replicate indefinitely, their resistance to anti-cancer therapies poses a significant barrier to effective treatment of GEJA. Ongoing drug development programmes aim to target and eradicate CSCs, however their characterisation and thus identification is difficult. CSC regulation is complex, involving an array of signalling pathways, which are in turn influenced by a number of entities including epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), microRNAs (miRNAs), the tumour microenvironment and epigenetic modifications. Identification of CSCs commonly relies on the expression of specific cell surface markers, yet these markers vary between different malignancies and indeed are often co-expressed in non-neoplastic tissues. Development of targeted drug therapies against CSCs thus requires an understanding of disease-specific CSC markers and regulatory mechanisms. This review details the current knowledge regarding CSCs in GEJA, with particular emphasis on their role in drug resistance.
Brain Metabolite, N-Acetylaspartate Is a Potent Protein Aggregation Inhibitor
Authors: Warepam Marina , Mishra Awdhesh Kumar , Sharma Gurumayum Suraj , Kumari Kritika , Krishna Snigdha , Khan Mohd Sajjad Ahmad , Rahman Hamidur , Singh Laishram Rajendrakumar
Published: February 2021

Deposition of toxic protein inclusions is a common hallmark of many neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson disease etc. N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is an important brain metabolite whose levels got altered under various neurodegenerative conditions. Indeed, NAA has been a widely accepted biological marker for various neurological disorders. We have also reported that NAA is a protein stabilizer. In the present communication, we investigated the role of NAA in modulating the aggregation propensity on two model proteins (carbonic anhydrase and catalase). We discovered that NAA suppresses protein aggregation and could solubilize preformed aggregates.
Identification of Potential Meniere's Disease Targets in the Adult Stria Vascularis
Authors: Gu Shoujun , Olszewski Rafal , Nelson Lacey , Gallego-Martinez Alvaro , Lopez-Escamez Jose Antonio , Hoa Michael
Published: February 2021

The stria vascularis generates the endocochlear potential and is involved in processes that underlie ionic homeostasis in the cochlear endolymph, both which play essential roles in hearing. The histological hallmark of Meniere's disease (MD) is endolymphatic hydrops, which refers to the bulging or expansion of the scala media, which is the endolymph-containing compartment of the cochlea. This histologic hallmark suggests that processes that disrupt ion homeostasis or potentially endocochlear potential may underlie MD. While treatments exist for vestibular symptoms related to MD, effective therapies for hearing fluctuation and hearing loss seen in MD remain elusive. Understanding the potential cell types involved in MD may inform the creation of disease mouse models and provide insight into underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. For these reasons, we compare published datasets related to MD in humans with our previously published adult mouse stria vascularis single-cell and single-nucleus RNA-Seq datasets to implicate potentially involved stria vascularis (SV) cell types in MD. Finally, we provide support for these implicated cell types by demonstrating co-expression of select candidate genes for MD within SV cell types.
RETRACTED: ECT2 Increases the stability of EGFR and Tumorigenicity by Inhibiting Grb2 Ubiquitination in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Wang Junxiong , Yang Shuo , Min Li , Zhu Shengtao , Guo Shuilong , Zhang Shutian
Published: February 2021

The poor prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with the invasion and metastasis of tumor cells. Epithelial cell transforming 2 (ECT2) is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) of the Rho family of GTPases. It has also been reported that upregulation of ECT2 in pancreatic cancer, but the role and mechanism of ECT2 have not been previously determined. We found that ECT2 was significantly elevated in PDAC tissues and cells, correlated with more advanced AJCC stage, distant metastases, and overall survival of patients with PDAC. Inhibition and overexpression tests showed that ECT2 promoted proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro, and promoted tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. We determined that ECT2 was involved in the post-translational regulation of Grb2. ECT2 inhibited the degradation of Grb2 through deubiquitination. Furthermore, knockdown of ECT2 downregulated EGFR levels by accelerating EGFR degradation. EGF stimulation facilitated the formation of ECT2-Grb2 complex. Overall, our findings indicated that ECT2 could be used as a promising new therapeutic candidate for PDAC.
The Impact of Neoadjuvant Hormone Therapy on Surgical and Oncological Outcomes for Patients With Prostate Cancer Before Radical Prostatectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Lijin , Zhao Hu , Wu Bin , Zha Zhenlei , Yuan Jun , Feng Yejun
Published: February 2021

Objective

This systematic study aimed to assess and compare the comprehensive evidence regarding the impact of neoadjuvant hormone therapy (NHT) on surgical and oncological outcomes of patients with prostate cancer (PCa) before radical prostatectomy (RP).

Methods

Literature searches were performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Using PubMed, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang databases, we identified relevant studies published before July 2020. The pooled effect sizes were calculated in terms of the odds ratios (ORs)/standard mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using the fixed or random-effects model.

Results

We identified 22 clinical trials (6 randomized and 16 cohort) including 20,199 patients with PCa. Our meta-analysis showed no significant differences in body mass index (SMD = 0.10, 95% CI: −0.08–0.29, p = 0.274) and biopsy Gleason score (GS) (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 0.76–2.35 p = 0.321) between the two groups. However, the NHT group had a higher mean age (SMD = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.07–0.31, p = 0.001), preoperative prostate-specific antigen (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.19–0.75, p = 0.001), and clinic tumor stage (OR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.53–3.29, p < 0.001). Compared to the RP group, the NHT group had lower positive surgical margins (PSMs) rate (OR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.29–0.67, p < 0.001) and biochemical recurrence (BCR) rate (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.26–0.83, p = 0.009). Between both groups, there were no significant differences in estimated blood loss (SMD = −0.06, 95% CI: −0.24–0.13, p = 0.556), operation time (SMD = 0.20, 95% CI: −0.12–0.51, p = 0.219), pathological tumor stage (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.54–1.06, p = 0.104), specimen GS (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.49–1.68, p = 0.756), and lymph node involvement (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.40–1.45, p = 0.404).

Conclusions

NHT prior to RP appeared to reduce the tumor stage, PSMs rate, and risk of BCR in patients with PCa. According to our data, NHT may be more suitable for older patients with higher tumor stage. Besides, NHT may not increase the surgical difficulty of RP.
Brain Shift in Neuronavigation of Brain Tumors: An Updated Review of Intra-Operative Ultrasound Applications
Authors: Gerard Ian J. , Kersten-Oertel Marta , Hall Jeffery A. , Sirhan Denis , Collins D. Louis
Published: February 2021

Neuronavigation using pre-operative imaging data for neurosurgical guidance is a ubiquitous tool for the planning and resection of oncologic brain disease. These systems are rendered unreliable when brain shift invalidates the patient-image registration. Our previous review in 2015, Brain shift in neuronavigation of brain tumours: A review offered a new taxonomy, classification system, and a historical perspective on the causes, measurement, and pre- and intra-operative compensation of this phenomenon. Here we present an updated review using the same taxonomy and framework, focused on the developments of intra-operative ultrasound-based brain shift research from 2015 to the present (2020). The review was performed using PubMed to identify articles since 2015 with the specific words and phrases: “Brain shift” AND “Ultrasound”. Since 2015, the rate of publication of intra-operative ultrasound based articles in the context of brain shift has increased from 2–3 per year to 8–10 per year. This efficient and low-cost technology and increasing comfort among clinicians and researchers have allowed unique avenues of development. Since 2015, there has been a trend towards more mathematical advancements in the field which is often validated on publicly available datasets from early intra-operative ultrasound research, and may not give a just representation to the intra-operative imaging landscape in modern image-guided neurosurgery. Focus on vessel-based registration and virtual and augmented reality paradigms have seen traction, offering new perspectives to overcome some of the different pitfalls of ultrasound based technologies. Unfortunately, clinical adaptation and evaluation has not seen as significant of a publication boost. Brain shift continues to be a highly prevalent pitfall in maintaining accuracy throughout oncologic neurosurgical intervention and continues to be an area of active research. Intra-operative ultrasound continues to show promise as an effective, efficient, and low-cost solution for intra-operative accuracy management. A major drawback of the current research landscape is that mathematical tool validation based on retrospective data outpaces prospective clinical evaluations decreasing the strength of the evidence. The need for newer and more publicly available clinical datasets will be instrumental in more reliable validation of these methods that reflect the modern intra-operative imaging in these procedures.
The Impact of Antimicrobial Stewardship Program on Injudicious Use of Cefuroxime
Authors: Arulappen Ann L. , Danial Monica , Haron Norliza , Hau Lim Choo , Khan Amer Hayat
Published: February 2021

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) program promotes the judicious use of antimicrobials. Hence, this study was conducted to analyze the impact of stewardship on the prescribing pattern of cefuroxime injection among the surgeons as perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis (PAP). This study was conducted retrospectively in Malaysia. Various outcomes were measured including cefuroxime usage, compliance with the guidelines, surgical site infections, and cost savings. A total of 1,601 patients were recruited in the study. In terms of usage, the total defined daily dose (DDD) prior to the intervention was 202 DDD/100 procedures compared to that after intervention which was 144 DDD/100 procedures (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the excessively long administration of PAP dropped from 94.4 to 30.3% (p < 0.001). Focusing on the compliance with the newly developed local guidelines, it has increased from 53 to 94.3% after the interventions were made (p < 0.001), whereas the rate of surgical site infections was reduced from 17.0 to 9.0%. The cost of antibiotic being used has significantly reduced after the study intervention (p = 0.007). The quality of PAP directly impacts the antimicrobial usage, the surgical site infections, and the total cost involved. Thus, it is crucial to maintain the standard of PAP at all times in healthcare settings.
Impact of the Low-Price Medicine Policy on Medicine Supply in China: An Interrupted Time-Series Analysis
Authors: Zhao Mingyue , Gillani Ali Hassan , Ji Duan , Feng Zhitong , Fang Yu , Yang Caijun
Published: February 2021

Objectives: The primary objective of the study was to assess the impact of the Low-Price Medicine Policy (LPMP) on the supply of low-price medicines (LPMs) in China. The secondary objective of the study was to describe the supply situation of LPMs from 2005 to 2018.

Methods: The LPMP was launched in the third quarter of 2014 (2014Q3). An interrupted time series analysis was used to evaluate the impact of LPMP on the supply of LPMs in China. Ordinary least squares and Poisson regression models were utilized to estimate the effect of LPMP on LPMs’ supply growth rate and the number of supplied LPMs. All the LPMs were divided into two subgroups: intermittent supply and continuous supply. The trend and level changes of the quarterly average growth rate and number of quarterly supplies for different LPM groups were analyzed from 2005 to 2018.

Findings: For the quarterly average growth rate, before the intervention, a significant increasing trend was observed in the total group and the continuous supply subgroup; after the introduction of LPMP, the increasing trend was ceased and a significant decrease in the trend and level was noted for both the total group (trend coefficient: β3= −0.0132, p < 0.01; level coefficient: β2 = −0.1510, p < 0.05) and the continuous supply subgroup (trend coefficient: β3 = −0.0133, p < 0.01; level coefficient: β2 = −0.1520, p < 0.05); whereas it had no significant effect for intermittent supply subgroup. For the number of quarterly supplies, after the intervention of LPMP, decline of the supply number was observed (trend coefficient: β3 = −0.0027, p < 0.001; level coefficient: β2 = −0.0584, p < 0.001); whereas the LPMP was associated with an upward trend and level (trend coefficient: β3 = 0.0715, p < 0.001; level coefficient: β2 = 0.174) for the intermittent supply subgroup.

Conclusion: For most of the LPMs, LPMP did not meet the goal of stimulating LPM production. However, for severely shortage medicines (the intermittent supply subgroup), the effect of LPMP was positive. Comprehensive policies rather than just deregulating medicine price should be introduced to alleviate the situation of medicine shortage in China.
Consciência, eu, ipiseidade: cadernos de anotações
Authors: Carrasco Alexandre de Oliveira Torres
Published: February 2021

O presente artigo pretende acompanhar o percurso e a travessia sartreana para construção e formalização teórica e, em alguma medida, prática do problema do “eu” e da “ipseidade”, tal como deságua em “O ser e o nada” na conhecida quinta seção do capítulo “As estruturas imediatas do para-si”, a saber, “O eu e o circuito da ipseidade”.  Sem que se pretenda dar uma relevo exagerado ao problema ou dar-lhe tratamento exaustivo, cremos que os impasses em torno da tríade consciência, eu e ipseidade podem oferecer notável instrumento analítico para compreensão não só da filosofia sartreana como também dos impasses e do sentido do debate daquelas “filosofias do concreto”. O retorno de considerável carga e atenção teóricas para problemas em torno do “eu” (e sua constelação de correlatos), bem como a emergência, por assim dizer,  de um (ou vários) Descartes redivivo entrando  em cena no pós-guerra francês, com as exigências de tantos mais cogitos quanto Descartes, tais movimentos indicam certa centralidade relativa da questão aqui pontuada e  são tanto quantos efeitos da virada que dá a Filosofia Francesa em torno dos anos trinta do século passado. Igualmente são modos de mensurar o que apresentamos, por ora, sumariamente, tomados igualmente como efeitos e índices dessa virada. O que nos propomos, porém, aquém de interpretações mais gerais, é acompanhar certo jogo e movimento teórico, desde o texto inaugural, “A Transcendência do Ego” até a solução de “O ser e o nada” em torno do binômio eu/consciência e o sentido da formalização que faz Sartre, já em “O ser e nada”, nos termos de um “circuito da ipseidade”.
ADSORCIÓN E INERTIZACIÓN DE BIFENILOS POLICLORADOS (PCBs) SOBRE ULEXITA, EN EL PROCESO DE GESTIÓN DE ACEITES DIELÉCTRICOS
Authors:   Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas IIQ, Chemical Sciences Department, Facultad de Ciencias Puras y Naturales FCPN, Universidad Mayor de San Andrés UMSA, P.O. Box 303, Calle Andrés Bello s/n, Ciudad Universitaria Cota Cota, La Paz, Bolivia., Tornero Jimenez Rafael J. , Valdez Castro Sulema N. ,   Laboratory of Hydrochemistry, Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas IIQ, Chemical Sciences Department, Facultad de Ciencias Puras y Naturales FCPN, Universidad Mayor de San Andrés UMSA, P.O. Box 303, Calle Andrés Bello s/n, Ciudad Universitaria Cota Cota, La Paz, Bolivia.
Published: February 2021

Los aceites dieléctricos utilizados en el siglo pasado en transformadores y condensadores eléctricos son las sustancias que contienen PCBs (Bifenilos policlorados). La exposición y contacto del ser humano con estas sustancias, los PCBs, por medio de aire, agua y suelo conlleva el riesgo de la aparición de cáncer, razón por la cual, su identificación, tratamiento, aislamiento y/o inertización es de vital importancia para el medio ambiente y la salud humana. El presente estudio propone la adsorción e inertización de PCBs como procesos de gestión de aceites dieléctricos utilizando sólidos como soportes adsorbentes. Esto incluye básicamente pasar de un aceite liquido (poco manipulable) a un “sólido” (aceite adsorbido sobre un soporte). Como resultado de este estudio se empleó ulexita como soporte. Posteriormente, se recubrió este sólido con carbonato de calcio para la inertización de PCBs del aceite dieléctrico, limitando así su interacción o reacción con el medioambiente y los seres humanos. El producto final queda así listo para su almacenamiento mediante encapsulación con concreto mientras se tiene acceso a la tecnología para incinerar los aceites dieléctricos con PCBs.
Pushing the Band Gap Envelope of Quasi-Type II Heterostructured Nanocrystals to Blue: ZnSe/ZnSe

1-
X

Te

X

/ZnSe Spherical Quantum Wells
Authors: Chang Jun Hyuk , Lee Hak June , Rhee Seunghyun , Hahm Donghyo , Jeong Byeong Guk , Nagamine Gabriel , Padilha Lazaro A. , Char Kookheon , Hwang Euyheon , Bae Wan Ki
Published: February 2021

Quasi-type II heterostructured nanocrystals (NCs) have been of particular interest due to their great potential for controlling the interplay of charge carriers. However, the lack of material choices for quasi-type II NCs restricts the accessible emission wavelength from red to near-infrared (NIR), which hinders their use in light-emitting applications that demand a wide range of visible colors. Herein, we demonstrate a new class of quasi-type II nanoemitters formulated in ZnSe/ZnSe

1-
X

Te

X

/ZnSe seed/spherical quantum well/shell heterostructures (SQWs) whose emission wavelength ranges from blue to orange. In a given geometry, ZnSe

1-
X

Te

X

emissive layers grown between the ZnSe seed and the shell layer are strained to fit into the surrounding media, and thus, the lattice mismatch between ZnSe

1-
X

Te

X

and ZnSe is effectively alleviated. In addition, composition of the ZnSe

1-
X

Te

X

emissive layer and the dimension of the ZnSe shell layer are engineered to tailor the distribution and energy of electron and hole wave functions. Benefitting from the capabilities to tune the charge carriers on demand and to form defect-free heterojunctions, ZnSe/ZnSe

1-
X

Te

X

/ZnSe/ZnS NCs show near-unity photoluminescence quantum yield (

PL
 
QY
>
90
%

) in a broad range of emission wavelengths (peak PL from 450 nm to 600 nm). Finally, we exemplify dichromatic white NC-based light-emitting diodes (NC-LEDs) employing the mixed layer of blue- and yellow-emitting ZnSe/ZnSe

1-
X

Te

X

/ZnSe/ZnS SQW NCs.
Recent Advances and Opportunities of Lead-Free Perovskite Nanocrystal for Optoelectronic Application
Authors: Zhang Fei , Ma Zhuangzhuang , Shi Zhifeng , Chen Xu , Wu Di , Li Xinjian , Shan Chongxin
Published: February 2021

Metal halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs), as a new class of light-emitting and light-harvesting materials, have recently attracted intensive attention for an impressive variety of optoelectronic applications. However, the lead toxicity and poor stability of such materials severely restrict their practical applications and future commercialization. Lead-free perovskite NCs and their derivatives, designed by the reasonable chemical substitution of Pb with other nontoxic elements, are recently booming as an attractive alternative to lead-based counterparts. In this review, we firstly present a comprehensive overview of currently explored lead-free perovskite NCs with an emphasis on their design routes, morphologies, optoelectronic properties, and environmental stability issues. Then, we discuss the preliminary achievements of lead-free perovskite NCs in versatile optoelectronic applications, such as light-emitting devices, solar cells, photodetectors, and photocatalysis. We finish this review with a critical outlook into the currently existing challenges and possible development opportunities of this rapidly evolving field.
Projeto Brasil e África:
Authors: Moreira Mineiro Drummond Ana Luiza
Published: February 2021

Entre 2015 e 2017, os governos de Brasil e Moçambique, apoiados pela ONU Mulheres, pelo Programa das Nações Unidas para o Desenvolvimento (PNUD) e pelo Fundo de População das Nações Unidas (UNFPA), desenvolveram um projeto de cooperação que visou, principalmente, promover a igualdade de gênero, o empoderamento econômico feminino e o enfrentamento da violência contra as mulheres nos dois países. Com o propósito de compreender as consequências desse projeto para o desenvolvimento social em Moçambique, esse artigo analisou o alcance e o conteúdo dos programas para a promoção da igualdade de gênero e avaliou os principais resultados com base nos indicadores desenvolvidos pela Agência Brasileira de Cooperação (ABC). A partir da análise, conclui-se que o Projeto Brasil e África foi bem-sucedido em seus objetivos principais e que a cooperação Brasil e Moçambique pode-se consolidar como um importante instrumento para construir respostas multifacetadas e sustentáveis à problemas comuns.
política exterior del kirchnerismo en la construcción de un realismo discursivo presidencial (2003-2015)
Authors: Laporte Juan Pablo
Published: February 2021

Este trabajo analiza la política exterior del kirchnerismo a través de los discursos presidenciales brindados en la Asamblea Legislativa y en la Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas cada año, interpretados por los autores que han contribuido al estado de la discusión del período. Estas enunciaciones discursivas, demostraron la intención de diseñar un patrón de inserción internacional orientado al crecimiento interno distributivo. Para ello, se consolidó lo que hemos denominado un realismo discursivo presidencial, entendido como la construcción de poder político desde la argumentación para desarrollar capacidades estatales que posibiliten las transformaciones necesarias para un desarrollo con equidad.
¿Hacia un nuevo orden conservador?
Authors: De Santibañes Francisco
Published: February 2021

Muy de vez en cuando el sistema internacional atraviesa un cambio estructural. Hoy somos testigos de uno de esos cambios. ¿Qué características tiene esta transformación? ¿Cuáles son sus causas? ¿Está emergiendo un nuevo orden internacional? ¿Qué estrategia debería adoptar la Argentina ante esta nueva realidad? Estas son algunas de las preguntas que se tratan de contestar en el presente artículo.
prolegómenos de la usurpación británica de 1833.
Authors: Orso Javier Alejandro
Published: February 2021

En febrero de 1832 el enviado argentino en Londres, Manuel Moreno, envió una nota reservada a Buenos Aires, en la cual advertía sobre la posibilidad de que el Reino Unido atacara a las Islas Malvinas, violentando la soberanía argentina. El objetivo del presente artículo pretende analizar dicho valioso documento a la luz de la historia de las relaciones internacionales, a la vez que poner en evidencia las cualidades del diplomático argentino, quien posteriormente se destacaría por la famosa Protesta, luego de la usurpación británica de enero de 1833.
agenda de política exterior en 280 caracteres:
Authors: Trinadori López Fiorella Agustina , Centurión Erika Lucía
Published: February 2021

En un contexto de globalización y de auge de las redes sociales, la diplomacia ya no debería ser estudiada sin tener en cuenta el impacto que han tenido sobre ella el desarrollo de las Tecnologías de la Información y de la Comunicación (TIC 's) e Internet. Por esta razón, el presente artículo busca analizar los cambios y las continuidades en los ejes de política exterior que tuvieron mayor importancia en la ejecución de la diplomacia digital de la segunda administración de Cristina Fernández (2011-2015) y los primeros tres años de Mauricio Macri (2015-2018), estudiados desde la plataforma Twitter.
Actores privados y salud global en el sistema de cooperación internacional:
Authors: Abbondanzieri Camila
Published: February 2021

La pandemia de COVID-19 implicó el cuestionamiento de las bases sobre las que se cimienta el sistema de cooperación internacional. La crisis del multilateralismo, expresada en la dependencia de la Organización Mundial de la Salud de las contribuciones de donantes privados, abre una serie de interrogantes con respecto al devenir de las prácticas vinculadas a la cooperación internacional. En ese sentido, cobra relevancia el estudio de los actores privados en tanto su participación internacional los posiciona como agentes de peso para la determinación de la agenda global. En particular, se aborda el vínculo entre las fundaciones filantrópicas y las cuestiones de salud global para dar cuenta, a través del relevo de casos concretos, de un período de transición en el abordaje de la cooperación internacional.
Re-significando la Educación Sexual Integral desde el trabajo social
Authors: Ivanoff María Fernanda , Muñoz Rubia Idania Macarena , Ortiz Martín Carla Daniela
Published: February 2021

El presente artículo pretende describir prejuicios e imaginarios sociales presentes en la implementación de la Educación Sexual Integral (ESI) a través de la adhesión a la Ley 26150/06 en la provincia de San Juan, a partir del año 2018. Nos propusimos identificar cómo conciben la sexualidad las personas entrevistadas en relación a sus imaginarios sociales sobre la ESI; en segunda instancia visibilizar la existencia de prejuicios que podrían influir en la implementación de dicha ley; y por último identificar el rol del/la Trabajador/ra Social en los diversos escenarios de actuación profesional en relación a dicha temática. La investigación se llevó a cabo con metodología de tipo cualitativa, indagación en fuentes primarias y secundarias, y realización de entrevistas semi-estructuradas, efectuadas a quienes dictaron y/o asistieron a capacitaciones sobre ESI.
Tensiones entre el Tratado sobre Integración y Complementación Minera y la “Ley de Glaciares” en Argentina
Authors: Bruculo Celia Romina , Isla Raffaele Maria Laura
Published: February 2021

En un contexto de expansión del modelo extractivo en América Latina, en 1997 Argentina y Chile firmaron el Tratado sobre Integración y Complementación Minera con el fin de posibilitar las inversiones en las zonas fronterizas en un área geopolíticamente estratégica, lo que habilitó un espacio para el desarrollo de esta actividad sin restricciones superpuestas entre ambos países. En ese marco, se aprobó el primer megaproyecto binacional, Pascua Lama, propiedad de la empresa Barrick Gold, fuertemente cuestionado en ambas partes de la cordillera debido a sus impactos ambientales. En Argentina la sanción de la Leyes de Presupuestos Mínimos para la Preservación de los Glaciares y del Ambiente Periglacial (Ley 26.418/2008, Ley   26.639/2010), que prohibió la minería sobre esas áreas, fue percibida por el sector minero como una amenaza a sus intereses económicos. Tomando como enfoques teóricos la Ecología Política y las Relaciones Internacionales, este trabajo tiene por objetivo analizar las tensiones que surgen entre el Tratado binacional y la “Ley de Glaciares” en relación con los intereses mineros y la conservación de los ecosistemas glaciares y periglaciales. Se analizan aspectos socioambientales, legales, políticos y corporativos, considerando la complejidad de la coexistencia de ambos instrumentos jurídicos en un extenso territorio binacional.
PENGGUNAAN STRATEGI MIND MAPPING DALAM PEMBELAJARAN KOSAKATA BAHASA ARAB
Authors: Fu'adah Shofwatul
Published: February 2021

For muslims, Arabic language is more important than the other languages. One of the ways to understand Arabic is learn about it. Learning strategies have an important role in learning Arabic, including learning vocabulary. But, in reality Many students feel difficult to learn Arabic, especially in mastering mufradat and other materials. One of the reasons is the wrong process when studying mufradat. This paper describes the implementation of mind mapping strategy in learning Arabic vocabulary at Junior High School (SMP) Alam Banyuwangi. This study used a descriptive qualitative approach with three data collection techniques, namely observation, interviews, and documentation. The results showed that mind mapping strategy can help the teachers to solve the problem of learning Arabic, especially to improve students' mastery of Arabic vocabulary. Because mind maps use visual and sensory reminders in a pattern of related ideas. This map evokes original ideas and triggers memories easily.