bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated detection of the contrast phase in MDCT by an artificial neural network improves the accuracy of opportunistic bone mineral density measurements
Authors: Rühling Sebastian , Navarro Fernando , Sekuboyina Anjany , El Husseini Malek , Baum Thomas , Menze Bjoern , Braren Rickmer , Zimmer Claus , Kirschke Jan S.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To determine the accuracy of an artificial neural network (ANN) for fully automated detection of the presence and phase of iodinated contrast agent in routine abdominal multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) scans and evaluate the effect of contrast correction for osteoporosis screening.

Methods

This HIPPA-compliant study retrospectively included 579 MDCT scans in 193 patients (62.4 ± 14.6 years, 48 women). Three different ANN models (2D DenseNet with random slice selection, 2D DenseNet with anatomy-guided slice selection, 3D DenseNet) were trained in 462 MDCT scans of 154 patients (threefold cross-validation), who underwent triphasic CT. All ANN models were tested in 117 unseen triphasic scans of 39 patients, as well as in a public MDCT dataset containing 311 patients. In the triphasic test scans, trabecular volumetric bone mineral density (BMD) was calculated using a fully automated pipeline. Root-mean-square errors (RMSE) of BMD measurements with and without correction for contrast application were calculated in comparison to nonenhanced (NE) scans.

Results

The 2D DenseNet with anatomy-guided slice selection outperformed the competing models and achieved an F1 score of 0.98 and an accuracy of 98.3% in the test set (public dataset: F1 score 0.93; accuracy 94.2%). Application of contrast agent resulted in significant BMD biases (all p < .001; portal-venous (PV): RMSE 18.7 mg/ml, mean difference 17.5 mg/ml; arterial (AR): RMSE 6.92 mg/ml, mean difference 5.68 mg/ml). After the fully automated correction, this bias was no longer significant (p > .05; PV: RMSE 9.45 mg/ml, mean difference 1.28 mg/ml; AR: RMSE 3.98 mg/ml, mean difference 0.94 mg/ml).

Conclusion

Automatic detection of the contrast phase in multicenter CT data was achieved with high accuracy, minimizing the contrast-induced error in BMD measurements.

Key Points

• A 2D DenseNet with anatomy-guided slice selection achieved an F1 score of 0.98 and an accuracy of 98.3% in the test set. In a public dataset, an F1 score of 0.93 and an accuracy of 94.2% were obtained.

• Automated adjustment for contrast injection improved the accuracy of lumbar bone mineral density measurements (RMSE 18.7 mg/ml vs. 9.45 mg/ml respectively, in the portal-venous phase).

• An artificial neural network can reliably reveal the presence and phase of iodinated contrast agent in multidetector CT scans (https://github.com/ferchonavarro/anatomy_guided_contrast_c). This allows minimizing the contrast-induced error in opportunistic bone mineral density measurements.
Distributed computation with continual population growth
Authors: Cho Da-Jung , Függer Matthias , Hopper Corbin , Kushwaha Manish , Nowak Thomas , Soubeyran Quentin
Published: October 2021

Computing via synthetically engineered bacteria is a vibrant and active field with numerous applications in bio-production, bio-sensing, and medicine. Motivated by the lack of robustness and by resource limitation inside single cells, distributed approaches with communication among bacteria have recently gained in interest. In this paper, we focus on the problem of population growth happening concurrently, and possibly interfering, with the desired bio-computation. Specifically, we present a fast protocol in systems with continuous population growth for the majority consensus problem and prove that it correctly identifies the initial majority among two inputs with high probability if the initial difference is $$\varOmega (\sqrt{n\log n})$$

Ω
(

n
log
n

)

where n is the total initial population. We also present a fast protocol that correctly computes the Nand of two inputs with high probability. By combining Nand gates with the majority consensus protocol as an amplifier, it is possible to compute arbitrary Boolean functions. Finally, we extend the protocols to several biologically relevant settings. We simulate a plausible implementation of a noisy Nand gate with engineered bacteria. In the context of continuous cultures with a constant outflow and a constant inflow of fresh media, we demonstrate that majority consensus is achieved only if the flow is slower than the maximum growth rate. Simulations suggest that flow increases consensus time over a wide parameter range. The proposed protocols help set the stage for bio-engineered distributed computation that directly addresses continuous stochastic population growth.
COVID-19-related delays of botulinum toxin injections have a negative impact on the quality of life of patients with dystonia and spasticity: a single-center ambulatory care study
Authors: Teuschl Yvonne , Bancher Christian , Brainin Michael , Dachenhausen Alexandra , Matz Karl , Pinter Michaela M.
Published: October 2021

Background

Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) is considered a safe and effective treatment for spasticity and dystonia. Individual interinjection intervals are critical for the maintenance of the effect. In Austria, BoNT outpatient clinics were shutdown from November to December 2020 during COVID-19 control measures, leading to rescheduling of BoNT-A injections. This survey aimed at investigating the influence of injection delays on symptoms, physical functioning, and quality of life (QoL) of the affected patients.

Methods

Between April and July 2021, 32 outpatients (21 females, mean age: 63.4 ± 12.1 years) treated ≥ 12 months at the BoNT outpatient clinic Horn-Allentsteig (Austria) and experienced ≥ 2 week injection delays, completed a structured face-to-face questionnaire.

Results

Indications were dystonia (34%), spasticity (63%), and hyperhidrosis (3%). Injections were delayed by 10 weeks (median, range: 2–15). Muscle cramps increased in 95% of patients with spasticity, muscle twitches in 91% of those with dystonia, and pain in 9% and 60% for dystonia and spasticity, respectively. Overall, 75% reported functional worsening, and deterioration in QoL by 62.6% ± 16.8 (mean ± SD). The impact on QoL correlated with the subjective global improvement induced by BoNT-A (Rs: 0.625; p < 0.001). For 75%, long-term assurance of BoNT-A therapy was very important, and 81% felt their patient rights not respected.

Conclusions

COVID-19-related delays in BoNT-A injections illustrate the importance of this therapy for symptom relief, functional outcome, and QoL in patients suffering from involuntary muscle hyperactivity. BoNT-A therapy is essential and has to be guaranteed even in circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nach dem Streik ist vor dem Streik
Authors: Keller Berndt Karl
Published: October 2021

Anfang der 2000er Jahre bildeten sich einige Berufsgewerkschaften, die das alte System der Tarifeinheit lockerten, bis das Bundesarbeitsgericht schließlich 2010 die Tarifpluralität grundsätzlich zuließ. Mit dem Tarifeinheitsgesetz von 2015 sollte die Macht kleiner Berufsgewerkschaften wieder eingegrenzt werden. Die Regeln im Tarifeinheitsgesetz sind jedoch zu unbestimmt um zu verhindern, dass es zu Konflikten der Gewerkschaften innerhalb eines Unternehmens kommt. Die Bahn bietet hier ein gutes Beispiel.
Teaching mathematics with technology: a multidimensional analysis of teacher beliefs
Authors: Thurm Daniel , Barzel Bärbel
Published: October 2021

Teacher self-efficacy beliefs, epistemological beliefs, and beliefs about teaching with technology are regarded as crucial factors for teaching mathematics with technology. However, there is a lack of research that investigates these beliefs while taking into account the multidimensionality of the constructs. In this cross-sectional study with n = 198 upper secondary in-service teachers in Germany, we used multidimensional scales to measure teachers’ i) beliefs about teaching with technology, ii) self-efficacy beliefs, and iii) epistemological beliefs. Furthermore, teachers were asked to self-report on their iv) implementation of technology with respect to different modes of technology use. The results uncover differential associations among the constructs and identify sub-dimensions that are especially central. In particular, three clusters of sub-dimensions can be reconstructed. One cluster reflects a broader set of sub-dimensions and is related to a more integrated and constructivist implementation of technology. In this cluster, self-efficacy can be identified as a central construct. A further cluster is related to using technology to support multiple representations which turned out to be independent of many other sub-dimensions. Finally, the third cluster comprises sub-dimension that can be interpreted as less central. This cluster in particular contains teachers’ beliefs about the detrimental effects of teaching with technology, which points out that beliefs about the risks of technology use are less central than beliefs about the potential benefits of technology. The results can inform more differentiated approaches to teacher professional development related to teaching mathematics with technology.
Efficient static analysis and verification of featured transition systems
Authors: ter Beek Maurice H. , Damiani Ferruccio , Lienhardt Michael , Mazzanti Franco , Paolini Luca
Published: October 2021

A Featured Transition System (FTS) models the behaviour of all products of a Software Product Line (SPL) in a single compact structure, by associating action-labelled transitions with features that condition their presence in product behaviour. It may however be the case that the resulting featured transitions of an FTS cannot be executed in any product (so called dead transitions) or, on the contrary, can be executed in all products (so called false optional transitions). Moreover, an FTS may contain states from which a transition can be executed only in some products (so called hidden deadlock states). It is useful to detect such ambiguities and signal them to the modeller, because dead transitions indicate an anomaly in the FTS that must be corrected, false optional transitions indicate a redundancy that may be removed, and hidden deadlocks should be made explicit in the FTS to improve the understanding of the model and to enable efficient verification—if the deadlocks in the products should not be remedied in the first place. We provide an algorithm to analyse an FTS for ambiguities and a means to transform an ambiguous FTS into an unambiguous one. The scope is twofold: an ambiguous model is typically undesired as it gives an unclear idea of the SPL and, moreover, an unambiguous FTS can efficiently be model checked. We empirically show the suitability of the algorithm by applying it to a number of benchmark SPL examples from the literature, and we show how this facilitates a kind of family-based model checking of a wide range of properties on FTSs.
Reviewing rounds prediction for code patches
Authors: Huang Yuan , Liang Xingjian , Chen Zhihao , Jia Nan , Luo Xiapu , Chen Xiangping , Zheng Zibin , Zhou Xiaocong
Published: October 2021

Code review is one of the common activities to guarantee the reliability of software, while code review is time-consuming as it requires reviewers to inspect the source code of each patch. A patch may be reviewed more than once before it is eventually merged or abandoned, and then such a patch may tighten the development schedule of the developers and further affect the development progress of a project. Thus, a tool that predicts early on how long a patch will be reviewed can help developers take self-inspection beforehand for the patches that require long-time review. In this paper, we propose a novel method, PMCost, to predict the reviewing rounds of a patch. PMCost uses a number of features, including patch meta-features, code diff features, personal experience features and patch textual features, to better reflect code changes and review process. To examine the benefits of PMCost, we perform experiments on three large open source projects, namely Eclipse, OpenDaylight and OpenStack. The encouraging experimental results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of our approach. Besides, we further study the why the proposed features contribute to the reviewing rounds prediction.
Gender Differences in Perceived Family Involvement and Perceived Family Control during Emerging Adulthood: A Cross-Country Comparison in Southern Europe
Authors: García-Mendoza M. C. , Parra A. , Sánchez-Queija I. , Oliveira J. E. , Coimbra S.
Published: October 2021

The aim of the present study was to explore gender differences in perceived parental involvement and perceived psychological and behavioral control during emerging adulthood in two Southern European countries (Spain and Portugal). Data were collected from 491 Portuguese and 552 Spanish undergraduate emerging adults (53.7 % women and 46.3 % men) aged between 18 and 29 years (M = 20.24 and SD = 2.12). Results indicated that women perceived higher levels of parental involvement than men in both countries, and men perceived more behavioral control than women in Portugal. Furthermore, gender was found to moderate the association between perceived parental involvement and perceived psychological and behavioral control differently in each country. Taken together, our findings suggest that gender-differentiated socialization patterns persist during emerging adulthood and that these patterns may be affected by the sociocultural context.
Assessment of tantalum nanoparticle-induced MC3T3-E1 proliferation and underlying mechanisms
Authors: Kang Chengrong , Wang Yudong , Li Liang , Li Zhangwei , Zhou Qianbing , Pan Xuan
Published: October 2021

Objective

In our previous study, tantalum nanoparticle (Ta-NPs) was demonstrated to promote osteoblast proliferation via autophagy induction, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, we will explore the potential mechanism.

Methods

Ta-NPs was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and BET specific surface area test. MC3T3-E1 were treated with 0 or 20 μg/mL Ta-NPs with or without pretreatment with 10 μM LY294002, Triciribine, Rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitors) for 1 h respectively. Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of pathway proteins and LC3B. CCK-8 assay was used to assess cell viability. Flow cytometry was used to detect apoptosis and cell cycle.

Results

After pretreatment with LY294002, Triciribine and Rapamycin, the p-Akt/Akt ratio of pathway protein in Triciribine and Rapamycin groups decreased (P < 0.05), while the autophagy protein LC3-II/LC3-I in the Rapamycin group was upregulated obviously (P < 0.001). In all pretreated groups, apoptosis was increased (LY294002 group was the most obvious), G1 phase cell cycle was arrested (Triciribine and Rapamycin groups were more obvious), and MC3T3-E1 cells were proliferated much more (P < 0.01, P < 0.001, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Pretreatment with Triciribine or Rapamycin has a greater effect on pathway protein Akt, cell cycle arrest, autophagy protein, and cell proliferation but with inconsistent magnitude, which may be inferred that the Akt/mTOR pathway, as well as its feedback loop, were more likely involved in these processes.
Backtesting coordinated hydropower bidding using neural network forecasting
Authors: Bringedal Amanda Sæbø , Søvikhagen Anne-Marthe Liaklev , Aasgård Ellen Krohn , Fleten Stein-Erik
Published: October 2021

A stochastic programming model for a price-taking, profit-maximizing hydropower producer participating in the Nordic day-ahead and balancing market is developed and evaluated by backtesting over 200 historical days. We find that the producer may gain 0.07% by coordinating its trades in the day-ahead and balancing market, compared to considering the two markets sequentially. It is thus questionable whether a coordinated bidding strategy is worthwhile. However, the gain from coordinating trades is dependent on the quality of the forecasts for the balancing market. The limited gain of 0.07% comes from using an artificial neural network prediction model that is trained on historical data on seasonal effects, day-ahead market price, wind and temperature forecasts. To quantify the effect of the forecasting model on the gain of coordination, we therefore develop a benchmarking framework for two additional prediction models: a naive forecast predicting zero imbalance in expectation, and a perfect information forecast. Using the naive method, we estimate the lower bound of coordination to be 0.0% which coincides with theory. When having perfect information, we find that the upper bound for the gain is 3.8% which indicates that a substantial gain in profits can be obtained by coordinated bidding if accurate prediction methods could be developed.
Why Digital Assistants Need Your Information to Support Your Autonomy
Authors: Heinrichs Jan-Hendrik
Published: October 2021

This article investigates how human life is conceptualized in the design and use of digital assistants and how this conceptualization feeds back into the life really lived. It suggests that a specific way of conceptualizing human life — namely as a set of tasks to be optimized — is responsible for the much-criticized information hunger of these digital assistants. The data collection of digital assistants raises not just several issues of privacy, but also the potential for improving people’s degree of self-determination, because the optimization model of daily activity is genuinely suited to a certain mode of self-determination, namely the explicit and reflective setting, pursuing, and monitoring of goals. Furthermore, optimization systems’ need for generation and analysis of data overcomes one of the core weaknesses in human capacities for self-determination, namely problems with objective and quantitative self-assessment. It will be argued that critiques according to which digital assistants threaten to reduce their users’ autonomy tend to ignore that the risks to autonomy are derivative to potential gains in autonomy. These critiques are based on an overemphasis of a success conception of autonomy. Counter to this conception, being autonomous does not require a choice environment that exclusively supports a person’s “true” preferences, but the opportunity to engage with external influences, supportive as well as adverse. In conclusion, it will be argued that ethical evaluations of digital assistants should consider potential gains as well as potential risks for autonomy caused by the use of digital assistants.
Investigations to characterize the interactions of light radiation, engine operating media and fluorescence tracers for the use of qualitative light-induced fluorescence in engine systems
Authors: Schweizer Thorsten , Kubach Heiko , Koch Thomas
Published: October 2021

The light-induced fluorescence (LIF) represents an important tool for the continuous improvement and further development of combustion engine systems regarding efficiency increase. In this work, the interactions between light-emitting diode (LED) and laser diode light radiation, engine oil/fuel and three fluorescence tracers are investigated on an application-related investigation system for the design of qualitative LIF experiments. Thereby two efficient light sources for engine combustion chamber lighting are presented. For different engine oil/fuel tracer combinations, the fluorescence is examined in its intensity and its spectrum depending on the temperature, concentration and temperature history. With oil temperature variations of up to 150 °C, changes in the fluorescence spectrum and fluorescence intensities that decrease by up to 80% are evident. For specific tracer oil/fuel mixtures, concentration-dependent maximum intensities and different temperature history behaviors can be revealed. The results shown support the design of spectral engine examination setups and give tracer dosage recommendations. Additionally, an engine LIF setup for in-cylinder tracking of engine operating media is presented.
Against ‘John Cage Shock’: Rethinking John Cage and the Post-war Avant-garde in Japan
Authors: YANG SERENA
Published: October 2021

After Cage and Tudor visited Japan in 1962, the term ‘Cage Shock’ circulated widely among the Japanese public. My interviews with Japanese composers suggest that the term ‘Cage Shock’ oversimplifies the reception of Cage's debut in Japan. Composer Yūji Takahashi stated that Cage would have met Japanese audiences well prepared for his visit by musical trends present in Japan as early as the late 1940s. Building on the statement that the Japanese avant-garde was thriving before Cage visited Japan in 1962, this article aims to deconstruct the term ‘Cage Shock’ by restoring the complexity of the reception of Cage in Japan and by analysing the reasons why critics adopted the term ‘Cage Shock’. I argue that ‘Cage Shock’ has functioned more as a media buzzword that sensationalizes the story of Cage's impact on Japan than as an objective description of Japanese reaction to Cage.
Isolating the Contributions of Seasonal Climate Warming to Permafrost Thermal Responses Over the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau
Authors: Zhang Guofei , Nan Zhuotong , Yin Ziyun , Zhao Lin
Published: October 2021

Climate warming is thermally degrading permafrost. The climate warming over the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau (QTP) is characterized by obvious seasonality and stronger winter warming in comparison with summer warming in 2000s. The contributions of seasonal climate warming to permafrost thermal responses remain unknown. Here, we isolated the seasonal warming contributions to permafrost thermal regimes through contrasting a series of specially designed numerical experiments that were composed of decadal seasonal data segments. The results reveal that permafrost thermal regime is highly sensitive to winter temperature change. Permafrost in the Three River Source region and on the Qiangtang High Plateau has undergone remarkable thermal degradation in the 2000s due to winter warming. It was estimated that each degree of rising in air temperature in summer could lead to an average increase of 0.35 m in the active layer thickness (ALT) and of 0.20°C in the mean annual ground temperature (MAGT), while for 1° winter warming, the active layer thickens by 0.16 m and the MAGT increases by 0.13°C. However, the overall impacts of winter warming have exceeded summer warming in 2000s due to a triple warming rate in winter than that in summer in this period.
The IL-6R and Bmi-1 axis controls self-renewal and chemoresistance of head and neck cancer stem cells
Authors: Herzog Alexandra E. , Warner Kristy A. , Zhang Zhaocheng , Bellile Emily , Bhagat Meera A. , Castilho Rogerio M. , Wolf Gregory T. , Polverini Peter J. , Pearson Alexander T. , Nör Jacques E.
Published: October 2021

Despite major progress in elucidating the pathobiology of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), the high frequency of disease relapse correlates with unacceptably deficient patient survival. We previously showed that cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) drive tumorigenesis and progression of HNSCC. Although CSCs constitute only 2–5% of total tumor cells, CSCs contribute to tumor progression by virtue of their high tumorigenic potential and their resistance to chemo-, radio-, and immunotherapy. Not only are CSCs resistant to therapy, but cytotoxic agents actually enhance cancer stemness by activating transcription of pluripotency factors and by inducing expression of Bmi-1, a master regulator of stem cell self-renewal. We hypothesized therapeutic inhibition of interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) suppresses Bmi-1 to overcome intrinsic chemoresistance of CSCs. We observed that high Bmi-1 expression correlates with decreased (p = 0.04) recurrence-free survival time in HNSCC patients (n = 216). Blockade of IL-6R by lentiviral knockdown or pharmacologic inhibition with a humanized monoclonal antibody (Tocilizumab) is sufficient to inhibit Bmi-1 expression, secondary sphere formation, and to decrease the CSC fraction even in Cisplatin-resistant HNSCC cells. IL-6R inhibition with Tocilizumab abrogates Cisplatin-mediated increase in CSC fraction and induction of Bmi-1 in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of HNSCC. Notably, Tocilizumab inhibits Bmi-1 and suppresses growth of xenograft tumors generated with Cisplatin-resistant HNSCC cells. Altogether, these studies demonstrate that therapeutic blockade of IL-6R suppresses Bmi-1 function and inhibits cancer stemness. These results suggest therapeutic inhibition of IL-6R might be a viable strategy to overcome the CSC-mediated chemoresistance typically observed in HNSCC patients.
Deletion of soluble epoxide hydrolase suppressed chronic kidney disease-related vascular calcification by restoring Sirtuin 3 expression
Authors: He Wanbing , Huang Jieping , Liu Yang , Xie Changming , Zhang Kun , Zhu Xinhong , Chen Jie , Huang Hui
Published: October 2021

Vascular calcification is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and contributes to cardiovascular disease (CVD) without any effective therapies available up to date. The expression of soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) is different in patients with and without vascular calcification. The present study investigates the role of sEH as a potential mediator of vascular calcification in CKD. Both Ephx2−/− and wild-type (WT) mice fed with high adenine and phosphate (AP) diet were used to explore the vascular calcification in CKD. Compared with WT, deletion of sEH inhibited vascular calcification induced by AP. sEH deletion also abolished high phosphorus (Pi)-induced phenotypic transition of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) independent of its epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) hydrolysis. Further gene expression analysis identified the potential role of Sirtuin 3 (Sirt3) in the sEH-regulated VSMC calcification. Under high Pi treatment, sEH interacted with Sirt3, which might destabilize Sirt3 and accelerate the degradation of Sirt3. Deletion of sEH may preserve the expression of Sirt3, and thus maintain the mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis and morphology, significantly suppressing VSMC calcification. Our data supported that sEH deletion inhibited vascular calcification and indicated a promising target of sEH inhibition in vascular calcification prevention.
Genotypic spectrum and phenotype correlations of EYS-associated disease in a Chinese cohort
Authors: Gao Feng-Juan , Wang Dan-Dan , Hu Fang-Yuan , Xu Ping , Chang Qing , Li Jian-Kang , Liu Wei , Zhang Sheng-Hai , Xu Ge-Zhi , Wu Ji-Hong
Published: October 2021

Background

To date, certain efforts have been made to investigate the clinical and genetic characteristics of patients with EYS mutations. However, data for Chinese patients are limited.

Objectives

To perform a detailed phenotyping and genetic characterization of 55 Chinese patients with EYS-RD, and to identify risk factors for these clinical data.

Methods

A total of 55 patients with EYS-RD were recruited. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), patient age, age at symptom onset, disease duration, and genetic information were collected.

Results

Thirty-six novel variants, three hot mutations of EYS (30.3%, c.6416G>A, c.6557G>A, c.7492G>C) and one hot region (49.06%, Laminin G domains) were identified. In all, 36.84% of the mutations occurred at base G site, and majority of mutations (56.56%) were missense. Late-truncating mutations are significantly more prevalent (41.30%). The mean age of onset was 15.65 ± 14.67 years old; it had no significant correlation with genotype. The average BCVA was 0.73 ± 0.93 LogMAR, and 61.8% of eyes had a BCVA better than 0.52 logMAR. BCVA was positively correlated with disease duration time. The mean MD was 23.18 ± 7.34 dB, MD showed a significant correlation with genotype and age. Cataract was present in 56.45% of patients, and 42.59% of patients showed an absence of pigmentation in the retina. Cataract and hyperpigmentation both showed a significant correlation with age.

Conclusions

EYS-RD is associated with a moderate phenotype with onset around adolescence, but great variability. Our study largely enhances the current knowledge of phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of EYS-RD, which could pave the way for better management of these patients.
Influence of uranyl complexation on the reaction kinetics of the dodecane radical cation with used nuclear fuel extraction ligands (TBP, DEHBA, and DEHiBA)
Authors: Celis Barros Cristian , Pilgrim Corey D. , Cook Andrew R. , Mezyk Stephen P. , Grimes Travis S. , Horne Gregory P.
Published: October 2021

Used nuclear fuel uranium complexants (TBP, DEHBA, and DEHiBA) exhibit significantly different radiation-induced reactivities upon uranyl complexation as dictated by a combination of electron density distribution and reaction pathway energetics.
Crystal structures and magnetic properties of one-dimensional compounds constructed from Mn2(salen)2 building blocks and organic selenite acid ligands
Authors: Zhang Shao-Liang , Li Xin-Chao , Gu Shi-Yu , Guo Shi , Liu Zi-Yu , Zeng Su-Yuan , Li Shan-Shan
Published: October 2021

Two new compounds composed of MnIII salen building blocks and organic selenite acid with ClO4− counter anions, namely [Mn2(salen)2(C6H5SeO2)](ClO4)(1) and [Mn2(salen)2(C6H4FSeO2)](ClO4)(2) [salen = N,N′-bis(salicylidene)-ethylenediamine], were synthesized through a one-pot reaction and characterized structurally and magnetically.
Modified mesoporous Y zeolite catalyzed nitration of azobenzene using NO2 as the nitro source combined with density functional theory studies
Authors: Guo Jiaming , Guo Chuanzhou , Chen Lei , Peng Xinhua
Published: October 2021

A modified mesoporous Y zeolite (Fe–Y) is developed for high ortho regioselective nitration of azobenzene under a NO2–O2 system.
A synergistic self-assembly strategy to fabricate thermally stable OPAN/PI composite aerogels for particulate matter removal
Authors: Qiao Shiya , Kang Shuai , Zhu Jing , Wang Yan , Yu Junrong , Hu Zuming
Published: October 2021

The development of low-cost nanofiber aerogels with good mechanical and thermal properties is essential for practical applications in the fields of heat insulation, air filtration, etc.
S100A1 is Involved in Myocardial Injury Induced by Exhaustive
Exercise
Authors: Yang Miaomiao , Xiao Zhigang , Chen Zhaoli , Ru Yongxin , Wang Jun , Jiang Jianhua , Wang Xinxing , Wang Tianhui
Published: October 2021

Many studies have confirmed that exhaustive exercise has adverse effects on the
heart by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). S100A1 calcium-binding
protein A1 (S100A1) is a regulator of myocardial contractility and a protector
against myocardial injury. However, few studies have investigated the role of
S100A1 in the regulation of myocardial injury induced by exhaustive exercise. In
the present study, we suggested that exhaustive exercise led to increased ROS,
downregulation of S100a1, and myocardial injury. Downregulation of S100a1
promoted exhaustive exercise-induced myocardial injury and overexpression of
S100A1 reversed oxidative stress-induced cardiomyocyte injury, indicating S100A1
is a protective factor against myocardial injury caused by exhaustive exercise.
We also found that downregulation of S100A1 promoted damage to critical proteins
of the mitochondria by inhibiting the expression of Ant1, Pgc1a, and Tfam under
exhaustive exercise. Our study indicated S100A1 as a potential prognostic
biomarker or therapeutic target to improve the myocardial damage induced by
exhaustive exercise and provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms
underlying the myocardial injury effect of exhaustive exercise.
Thresholds of Basal- and Calcium-Stimulated Calcitonin for Diagnosis
of Thyroid Malignancy
Authors: Băetu Mara , Olariu Cristina Alexandra , Stancu Cristina , Caragheorgheopol Andra , Ioachim Dumitru , Moldoveanu Gabriel , Corneci Cristina , Badiu Corin
Published: October 2021

Since medullary thyroid carcinoma is an aggressive cancer, it is important to
have an early detection based on stimulated calcitonin (CT), especially when
basal-CT is slightly elevated. The objective of this work was to set specific
thresholds for basal-CT- and calcium-stimulated calcitonin for prediction of
thyroid malignancy in female population. The study included 2 groups: group
A-women with elevated basal-CT (>9.82 pg/ml) and group
B-women with normal basal-CT (control group). After calcium stimulation test
precise protocol, histopathological reports of those that required surgery were
correlated with both basal and stimulated calcitonin. The best basal and
stimulated calcitonin cut-offs for distinguishing female patients with medullary
thyroid carcinoma or C-Cell-hyperplasia from other pathologies or normal cases
were: 12.9 pg/ml, respectively 285.25 pg/ml. For
basal-CT above 30 pg/ml, malignancy was diagnosed in 9/9
patients (100%): 9 MTC. For stimulated calcitonin above
300 pg/ml, malignancy was diagnosed in 17/21 patients
(80.95%): 12 MTC and 5 papillary thyroid carcinomas. The smallest nodule
that proved to be medullary thyroid carcinoma had only
0.56/0.34/0.44 cm on ultrasound, with no other
sonographic suspicious criteria. In conclusion, we have identified in Romanian
female population basal and stimulated calcitonin thresholds to discriminate
medullary thyroid carcinoma or C-Cell-hyperplasia from other cases. We recommend
thyroid surgery in all women with stimulated calcitonin above
285 pg/ml. Further studies on larger groups are necessary to
establish and confirm male and female cut-offs for early diagnosis of medullary
thyroid carcinoma, and interestingly, maybe for macro-papillary thyroid
carcinomas alike. The calcium administration has minimum side-effects, but
continuous cardiac monitoring is required.
An Oxidant- and Catalyst-Free Synthesis of Dibenzo[a,c]carbazoles via UV Light Irradiation of 2,3-Diphenyl-1H-indoles
Authors: Zhang Zunting , Kang Yang , Hou Rong , Min Xiaoyan , Wang Tao , Liang Yong
Published: October 2021

An efficient methodology for the synthesis of dibenzo[a,c]carbazoles via annulation of 2,3-diphenyl-1H-indoles in EtOH under UV light irradiation (λ = 365 nm) along with hydrogen evolution is described. This method exhibits the advantages of mild reaction conditions, no requirement of any oxidants and catalysts, and release of hydrogen as the only byproduct. Notably, the mechanism investigation confirms that the trans-4b,8a-dihydro-9H-dibenzo[a,c]carbazole intermediate could convert into cis-4b,8a-dihydro-9H-dibenzo[a,c]carbazole, which relies on the nitrogen atom of the indole ring. This is followed by intramolecular dehydrogenation which yields the dibenzo[a,c]carbazoles.
Abdominal Radical Trachelectomy
Authors: Fujii Takuma
Published: October 2021

Abdominal radical trachelectomy is a fertility-sparing surgery for early invasive cervical cancer. The surgical steps involved in abdominal radical trachelectomy are similar to those for radical hysterectomy prior to removal of the uterus. The difference is that in trachelectomy, the uterine corpus and infundibulopelvic ligament are conserved and the cervical remnant is connected to the vaginal wall. Surgeons should pay close attention to avoiding postsurgical complications such as infection and ileus, which might interfere with subsequent fertility treatments.
A New Insight in Nonaneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: The Potential Role of the Internal Jugular Veins
Authors: Scerrati Alba , De Bonis Pasquale , Zamboni Paolo , Dones Flavia , Fontanella Marco , Cenzato Marco , Visani Jacopo , Bianchi Federico , Zanin Luca , Cavallo Michele Alessandro , Sturiale Carmelo Lucio
Published: October 2021

Background Causes of the nonaneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (na-SAH) are still debated. Many studies confirmed the possible involvement of the intracranial venous system, in particular variants of the basal vein of Rosenthal.

Study Object The aim of this study is to investigate the role of extracranial venous system, in particular the jugular drainage, in the na-SAH pathophysiology.

Materials and Methods This is a multicenter retrospective study including patients suffering from na-SAH who were radiologically screened to exclude vascular malformations. The course of the internal jugular veins was evaluated to reveal any stenosis (caliber reduction >80%). Particular attention was paid at the passage between the styloid process and the arch of C1 to detect possible compression. As a control group, we enrolled patients who underwent CT angiograms and/or cerebral DSAs in the past 2 years.

Results We included 194 patients. The na-SAH group consisted of 94 patients, whereas the control group consisted of 100 patients. Fifty patients of the control group underwent a CT angiography for an ischemic cerebrovascular disease or trauma and 50 patients for an SAH due to a ruptured aneurysm. A significant jugular stenosis was found in 49 (52.1%) patients in the na-SAH group and in 18 (18%) patients in the control group. At univariate and multivariate analysis, the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions This is the first study investigating the correlation between jugular stenosis and the occurrence of na-SAH. The impaired venous outflow due to reduced venous caliber could result in an engorgement of the upstream intracranial veins with transient hypertensive phases facilitating ruptures. Further larger prospective studies are necessary to confirm these data.
Urinary Chloride Excretion Postcardiopulmonary Bypass in Pediatric Patients—A Pilot Study
Authors: Fincher Sophie , Gibbons Kristen , Johnson Kerry , Trnka Peter , Mattke Adrian C.
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to describe renal chloride metabolism following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery in pediatric patients. A prospective observational trial in a tertiary pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with 20 recruited patients younger than 2 years following CPB surgery was conducted. Urinary electrolytes, plasma urea, electrolytes, creatinine, and arterial blood gases were collected preoperatively, on admission to PICU and at standardized intervals thereafter. The urinary and plasma strong ion differences (SID) were calculated from these results at each time point. Fluid input and output and electrolyte and drug administration were also recorded. Median chloride administration was 67.7 mmol/kg over the first 24 hours. Urinary chloride (mmol/L; median interquartile range [IQR]) was 30 (19, 52) prior to surgery, 15 (15, 65) on admission, and remained below baseline until 24 hours. Plasma chloride (mmol/L; median [IQR]) was 105 (98, 107) prior to surgery and 101 (101, 106) on admission to PICU. It then increased from baseline, but remained within normal limits, for the remainder of the study. The urinary SID increased from 49.8 (19.1, 87.2) preoperatively to a maximum of 122.7 (92.5, 151.8) at 6 hours, and remained elevated until 48 hours. Plasma and urinary chloride concentrations were not associated with the development of acute kidney injury. Urinary chloride excretion is impaired after CPB. The urinary SID increase associated with the decrease in chloride excretion suggests impaired production and/or excretion of ammonium by the nephron following CPB, with gradual recovery postoperatively.
A Practical Guide to Managing Patients With Systemic Symptoms and Breast Implants
Authors: McGuire Patricia , Clauw Daniel J , Hammer Jason , Haws Melinda , Adams William P
Published: October 2021

Numerous studies have explored the possibility of an association between breast implants and systemic symptoms potentially linked to exposure to silicone. Some studies show no direct association whereas others provide insufficient scientific evidence to prove or disprove an association. Nonetheless, some patients with breast implants remain concerned about the possible role of their implants in systemic symptoms they may be experiencing. This paper provides a practical approach for plastic surgeons in managing patients with breast implants who present with systemic symptoms, including recommendations for patient counseling, clinical and laboratory assessment of symptoms, and/or referral. Integral components of patient counseling include listening attentively, providing unbiased information, and discussing the risks and benefits of options for evaluation and treatment. A thorough history and assessment of symptoms, including appropriate laboratory tests, may identify underlying conditions to expeditiously address patients’ health issues through a specialist referral. Diagnosing and treating disorders that are causing a patient’s symptoms, if unrelated to their implant, would avoid a potentially unnecessary surgery. Ultimately, better information is needed to reliably guide patients in an evidence-based fashion. Long-term follow-up of patients who are explanted to see what symptoms may or may not improve could be useful in educating patients. Control groups in studies prospectively following women with implants for development of systemic symptoms would also be useful because the symptoms reported are common in women without implants. Cases are presented to illustrate the recommendations for a practical approach toward management of women reporting systemic symptoms with breast implants.

Level of Evidence: 4
Expression of Exosome Biogenesis Genes Is Differentially Altered by Aging in the Mouse and in the Human Brain During Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Lark Daniel S , LaRocca Thomas J
Published: October 2021

Extracellular vesicles like exosomes are secreted by numerous cell types in a variety of tissues. Exosomes have been implicated in both aging and age-related disorders like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, how aging and AD affect exosome biogenesis within and across cell types is poorly understood. Moreover, cells acquire characteristics based on tissue niche, but the impact of tissue residence on cell type exosome biogenesis is unknown. We explored the Tabula Muris Senis, Mayo RNA-seq and Rush Religious Order Study/Memory and Aging Project data sets to characterize the cell and tissue-specific effects of aging and AD on genes involved in exosome biogenesis. Specifically, we examined the age-dependent expression (age coefficient) of genes involved in exosome biogenesis (22 genes), exosome cargo (3 genes), and senescence (5 genes). Of the 131 cell populations (cell type × tissue) studied, 95 had at least 1 exosome biogenesis gene affected by age. The most common gene/transcript increased by age was charged multivesicular body protein 2A (CHMP2A) (54 cell populations). The most common gene/transcript decreased by age was syndecan-binding protein (SDCBP) (58 cell populations). The senescence-associated genes cyclin-dependent kinase 1A (CDKN1A) and CDKN2A were not related to changes in CHMP2A and SDCBP and were altered by age in fewer cell populations. Finally, individuals with AD had decreased CHMP2A and increased SDCBP expression, opposite of what is observed during mouse aging in the absence of disease. These findings indicate that exosome biogenesis gene expression is modified by age in many cell populations mostly independent of senescence, and may be further altered in AD.
Study protocol for ELIXIR: an evaluation of learning and exposure to the undergraduate Interventional Radiology curriculum
Authors: Osman Filzah Hanis , Koe Jasmine Sze Ern , Lau Elisa S W , Nagaraj Dhikshitha , Ng Helen Hoi-Lam , Ng Alexander , Asif Aqua , Uberoi Raman , Chan Vinson Wai-Shun , Wah Tze Min
Published: October 2021

Background

Despite the initiation of a suggested undergraduate curriculum for Interventional Radiology (IR) by the British Society of Interventional Radiology, there is still a lack of exposure to IR amongst medical students and junior doctors. It is unclear how much of the proposed curriculum is implemented in the undergraduate curricula of the respective medical schools in the UK.

Methods and Materials

This is a cross-sectional study that aims to evaluate the level of awareness of IR as a subspecialty amongst medical students in the UK. All final year students from the 34 UK medical universities that award primary medical qualifications are eligible for the study. A student representative from each university will be recruited through a social media drive to distribute a survey. The online questionnaire is divided into five different sections; (i) Particulars, (ii) Basic knowledge on IR, (iii) Medical School Curriculum and Exposure, (iv) Career Prospects and (v) Satisfaction with Medical School Curriculum, with the intent of gauging their exposure and understanding of IR throughout the years of medical school and assessing their perceptions of IR as a potential career choice.
Storytelling and Workplace Bullying as Deterrents to Evidence-Based Innovation in Teaching: Nurse Educators’ Lived Experiences
Authors: Dzurec Laura
Published: October 2021

AIM

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of academic context characteristics, especially bullying, on innovation in nursing education.

BACKGROUND

Rapid and extensive changes in health care have prompted recognition of a need for concomitant changes in nurse educators’ teaching practices. Nurse educator successes in meeting the demands of change, however, are challenged by constraints characterizing their academic practice settings.

METHOD

Narrative analysis structured the study.

RESULTS

The findings suggested that nurse educators’ shared stories directed pervasive and lasting beliefs that discouraged innovation, fostered uniformity of teaching practice, and urged acts of bullying.

CONCLUSION

Reflective teaching practice, open communication, and teaching innovation may be constrained by workplace storytelling and the bullying behaviors it engenders. Recognizing the impact of stories told in nursing education settings might contribute to strengthening the uptake of pedagogical research, supporting leadership for and innovation in nurse educators’ evidence-based teaching practices.
Comfort measures for peripheral I.V. catheter placement in children
Authors: Schott Christina , Brown Victoria , Vittone Sarah
Published: October 2021

I.V. catheter placement is one of the most common causes of procedural pain in children. Interventions to address this pain are readily available but inconsistently used in practice. The focus of this article is to identify and encourage best practice for pain mitigation in peripheral I.V. catheter placement in children.