bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter-annual Climate Variability and Vegetation Dynamic in the Upper Amur (Heilongjiang) River Basin in Northeast Asia
Authors: You Guangyong , Arain M Altaf , Wang Shusen , McKenzie Shawn , Xu Bing , He Yaqian , Wu Dan , Lin Naifeng , Gao Jixi , Jia Xiru
Published: June 2020

Long-term (1982–2013) datasets of climate variables and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) were collected from Climate Research Union (CRU) and GIMMS NDVI3g. By setting the NDVI values below the threshold of 0.2 as 0, NDVI_0.2 was created to eliminate the noise caused by changes of surface albedo during non-growing period. TimeSat was employed to estimate the growing season length (GSL) from the seasonal variation of NDVI. Statistical analyses were conducted to reveal the mechanisms of climate-vegetation interactions in the cold and semi-arid Upper Amur River Basin of Northeast Asia. The results showed that the regional climate change can be summarized as warming and drying. Annual mean air temperature (T) increased at a rate of 0.13 °C per decade. Annual precipitation (P) declined at a rate of 18.22 mm per decade. NDVI had an insignificantly negative trend, whereas, NDVI_0.2 displayed a significantly positive trend (MK test, p < 0.05) over the past three decades. GSL had a significantly positive rate of approximately 2.9 days per decade. Correlation analysis revealed that, NDVI was significantly correlated with amount of P, whereas, GSL was highly correlated with warmth index (WMI), accumulation of monthly T above the threshold of 5°C. Principal regression analysis revealed that the inter-annual variations of NDVI, NDVI_0.2 and GSL were mostly contributed by WMI. Spatially, NDVI in grassland was more sensitive to P, whereas, T was more important in areas of high elevation. GSL in most of the areas displayed high sensitivity to T. This study examined the different roles of climate variables in controlling the vegetation activities. Further studies are needed to reveal the impact of extended GSL on the regional water balance and the water level of regional lakes, providing the habitats for the migratory birds and endangered species.
A perspective on complexity and networks science
Authors: Caldarelli Guido
Published: June 2020

Complexity and network science are nowadays used, or at least invoked, in a variety of scientific researchareas ranging from the analysis of financial systems to social structure and even to medicine. Here I explore some of the possible reasons for this success, the relationship between them and how they might be used in the future.
A boosted unbiased molecular dynamics method for predicting ligands binding mechanisms: probing the binding pathway of dasatinib to Src-kinase
Authors: Sohraby Farzin , Javaheri Moghadam Mostafa , Aliyar Masoud , Aryapour Hassan
Published: June 2020

Small molecules such as metabolites and drugs play essential roles in biological processes and pharmaceutical industry. Knowing their interactions with biomacromolecular targets demands a deep understanding of binding mechanisms. Dozens of papers have suggested that discovering of the binding event by means of conventional unbiased molecular dynamics (MD) simulation urges considerable amount of computational resources, therefore, only one who holds a cluster or a supercomputer can afford such extensive simulations. Thus, many researchers who do not own such resources are reluctant to take the benefits of running unbiased MD simulation, in full atomistic details, when studying a ligand binding pathway. Many researchers are impelled to be content with biased MD simulations which seek its validation due to its intrinsic preconceived framework. In this work, we have presented a workable stratagem to encourage everyone to perform unbiased (unguided) MD simulations, in this case a protein–ligand binding process, by typical desktop computers and so achieve valuable results in nanosecond time scale. Here, we have described a dynamical binding’s process of an anticancer drug, the dasatinib, to the c-Src kinase in full atomistic details for the first time, without applying any biasing force or potential which may lead the drug to artificial interactions with the protein. We have attained multiple independent binding events which occurred in the nanosecond time scales, surprisingly as little as ∼30 ns. Both the protonated and deprotonated forms of the dasatinib reached the crystallographic binding mode without having any major intermediate state during induction.

Availability and implementation

The links of the tutorial and technical documents are accessible in the article.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Fast and accurate prediction of partial charges using Atom-Path-Descriptor-based machine learning
Authors: Wang Jike , Cao Dongsheng , Tang Cunchen , Chen Xi , Sun Huiyong , Hou Tingjun
Published: June 2020

Motivation

Partial atomic charges are usually used to calculate the electrostatic component of energy in many molecular modeling applications, such as molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, free energy calculations and so forth. High-level quantum mechanics calculations may provide the most accurate way to estimate the partial charges for small molecules, but they are too time-consuming to be used to process a large number of molecules for high throughput virtual screening.

Results

We proposed a new molecule descriptor named Atom-Path-Descriptor (APD) and developed a set of APD-based machine learning (ML) models to predict the partial charges for small molecules with high accuracy. In the APD algorithm, the 3D structures of molecules were assigned with atom centers and atom-pair path-based atom layers to characterize the local chemical environments of atoms. Then, based on the APDs, two representative ensemble ML algorithms, i.e. random forest (RF) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), were employed to develop the regression models for partial charge assignment. The results illustrate that the RF models based on APDs give better predictions for all the atom types than those based on traditional molecular fingerprints reported in the previous study. More encouragingly, the models trained by XGBoost can improve the predictions of partial charges further, and they can achieve the average root-mean-square error 0.0116 e on the external test set, which is much lower than that (0.0195 e) reported in the previous study, suggesting that the proposed algorithm is quite promising to be used in partial charge assignment with high accuracy.

Availability and implementation

The software framework described in this paper is freely available at https://github.com/jkwang93/Atom-Path-Descriptor-based-machine-learning

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Ocular fixations and presaccadic potentials to explain pareidolias in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Revankar Gajanan S , Hattori Noriaki , Kajiyama Yuta , Nakano Tomohito , Mihara Masahito , Mori Etsuro , Mochizuki Hideki
Published: June 2020

In Parkinson’s disease, a precursor phenomenon to visual hallucinations presents as ‘pareidolias’ which make ambiguous forms appear meaningful. To evoke and detect pareidolias in patients, a noise pareidolia test was recently developed, although its task-dependent mechanisms are yet to be revealed. When subjected to this test, we hypothesized that patients exhibiting pareidolias would show altered top-down influence of visual processing allowing us to demonstrate the influence of pareidolic illusionary behaviour in Parkinson’s disease patients. To that end, we evaluated eye-movement strategies and fixation-related presaccadic activity on scalp EEG when participants performed the test. Twelve healthy controls and 21 Parkinson’s disease patients, evaluated for cognitive, visuo-spatial and executive functions, took a modified computer-based version of the noise pareidolia test in a free-viewing EEG eye-tracking experiment. Eye-tracking metrics (fixation-related durations and counts) documented the eye movement behaviour employed in correct responses (face/noise) and misperceptions (pareidolia/missed) during early and late visual search conditions. Simultaneously, EEG recorded the presaccadic activity in frontal and parietal areas of the brain. Based on the noise pareidolia test scores, we found certain Parkinson’s disease patients exhibited pareidolias whereas others did not. ANOVA on eye-tracking data showed that patients dwelled significantly longer to detect faces and pareidolias which affected both global and local search dynamics depending on their visuo-perceptual status. Presaccadic activity in parietal electrodes for the groups was positive for faces and pareidolias, and negative for noise, though these results depended mainly on saccade size. However, patients sensitive to pareidolias showed a significantly higher presaccadic potential on frontal electrodes independent of saccade sizes, suggesting a stronger frontal activation for pareidolic stimuli. We concluded with the following interpretations (i) the noise pareidolia test specifically characterizes visuo-perceptual inadequacies in patients despite their wide range of cognitive scores, (ii) Parkinson’s disease patients dwell longer to converge attention to pareidolic stimuli due to abnormal saccade generation proportional to their visuo-perceptual deficit during early search, and during late search, due to time-independent alteration of visual attentional network and (iii) patients with pareidolias show increased frontal activation reflecting the allocation of attention to irrelevant targets that express the pareidolic phenomenon. While the disease per se alters the visuo-perceptual and oculomotor dynamics, pareidolias occur in Parkinson’s disease due to an abnormal top-down modulation of visual processing that affects visual attention and guidance to ambiguous stimuli.
Brain Network Segregation and Glucose Energy Utilization: Relevance for Age-Related Differences in Cognitive Function
Authors: Manza Peter , Wiers Corinde E , Shokri-Kojori Ehsan , Kroll Danielle , Feldman Dana , Schwandt Melanie , Wang Gene-Jack , Tomasi Dardo , Volkow Nora D
Published: June 2020

The human brain is organized into segregated networks with strong within-network connections and relatively weaker between-network connections. This “small-world” organization may be essential for maintaining an energetically efficient system, crucial to the brain which consumes 20% of the body’s energy. Brain network segregation and glucose energy utilization both change throughout the lifespan. However, it remains unclear whether these processes interact to contribute to differences in cognitive performance with age. To address this, we examined fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging from 88 participants aged 18–73 years old. Consistent with prior work, brain network segregation showed a negative association with age across both sensorimotor and association networks. However, relative glucose metabolism demonstrated an interaction with age, showing a negative slope in association networks but a positive slope in sensorimotor networks. Overall, brain networks with lower segregation showed significantly steeper age-related differences in glucose metabolism, compared with highly segregated networks. Sensorimotor network segregation mediated the association between age and poorer spatial cognition performance, and sensorimotor network metabolism mediated the association between age and slower response time. These data provide evidence that sensorimotor segregation and glucose metabolism underlie some age-related changes in cognition. Interventions that stimulate somatosensory networks could be important for treatment of age-related cognitive decline.
Quantitative MRI-Based Analysis Identifies Developmental Limbic Abnormalities in PCDH19 Encephalopathy
Authors: Lenge Matteo , Marini Carla , Canale Edoardo , Napolitano Antonio , De Masi Salvatore , Trivisano Marina , Mei Davide , Longo Daniela , Rossi Espagnet Maria Camilla , Lucenteforte Ersilia ,   PCDH19 Clinical Study Group, Barba Carmen , Specchio Nicola , Guerrini Renzo
Published: June 2020

Protocadherin-19 (PCDH19) is a calcium dependent cell-adhesion molecule involved in neuronal circuit formation with prevalent expression in the limbic structures. PCDH19-gene mutations cause a developmental encephalopathy with prominent infantile onset focal seizures, variably associated with intellectual disability and autistic features. Diagnostic neuroimaging is usually unrevealing. We used quantitative MRI to investigate the cortex and white matter in a group of 20 PCDH19-mutated patients. By a statistical comparison between quantitative features in PCDH19 brains and in a group of age and sex matched controls, we found that patients exhibited bilateral reductions of local gyrification index (lGI) in limbic cortical areas, including the parahippocampal and entorhinal cortex and the fusiform and lingual gyri, and altered diffusivity features in the underlying white matter. In patients with an earlier onset of seizures, worse psychiatric manifestations and cognitive impairment, reductions of lGI and diffusivity abnormalities in the limbic areas were more pronounced. Developmental abnormalities involving the limbic structures likely represent a measurable anatomic counterpart of the reduced contribution of the PCDH19 protein to local cortical folding and white matter organization and are functionally reflected in the phenotypic features involving cognitive and communicative skills as well as local epileptogenesis.
The Laboratory Diagnosis of Coronavirus Disease 2019— Frequently Asked Questions
Authors: Fang Ferric C , Naccache Samia N , Greninger Alexander L
Published: June 2020

Diagnostic testing has played and will continue to play a major role in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The ability to detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in respiratory secretions is essential to determine when an individual is infected and potentially infectious to others. Viral detection is used for the identification, management, and isolation of individual patients. Viral detection is also used to determine when the virus has entered a community and how rapidly it is spreading. As communities attempt to reopen following periods of shutdown, the detection of both SARS-CoV-2 and specific antibodies that recognize the virus will become increasingly important as a means to assess infection and immunity in individuals and communities. Here, we discuss questions commonly asked by clinicians about COVID-19 diagnostic testing.
West Nile Virus–Associated Hospitalizations, California, 2004–2017
Authors: Snyder Robert E , Cooksey Gail Sondermeyer , Kramer Vicki , Jain Seema , Vugia Duc J
Published: June 2020

Background

West Nile virus (WNV) is the most commonly reported mosquito-borne disease in the USA. California reports more WNV disease than any other state.

Methods

We identified WNV-associated hospitalizations from 2004 through 2017 in California and estimated hospitalization incidence using Patient Discharge Data. We described demographic, geographic, and clinical characteristics of WNV hospitalizations; identified risk factors for in-hospital death; and tabulated hospitalization charges.

Results

From 2004 through 2017, 3109 Californians were hospitalized with WNV (median, 214 patients/year; range, 72–449). The majority were male (1983; 63.8%) and aged ≥60 years (1766; 56.8%). The highest median annual hospitalization rate (0.88 hospitalizations/100 000 persons) was in the Central Valley, followed by southern California (0.59 hospitalizations/100 000 persons). Most patients (2469; 79.4%) had ≥1 underlying condition, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or immunosuppression due to medications or disease. Median hospitalization length of stay was 12 days (interquartile range, 6–23 days). During hospitalization, 1317 (42%) patients had acute respiratory failure and/or sepsis/septic shock, 772 (24.8%) experienced acute kidney failure, and 470 (15.1%) had paralysis; 272 (8.8%) patients died. Nearly 47% (1444) of patients were discharged for additional care. During these 14 years, $838 680 664 (mean $59.9 million/year) was charged for WNV hospitalizations, 73.9% through government payers at a median charge of $142 321/patient.

Conclusions

WNV-associated hospitalizations were substantial and costly in California. Hospitalization incidence was higher in males, elderly persons, and patients with underlying conditions. WNV persists as a costly and severe public health threat in California.
Adam Smith’s view of economic inequality
Authors: Walraevens Benoît
Published: June 2020

Adam Smith has usually been seen as an economist who had a positive view of economic inequalities and who was more concerned with diminishing absolute poverty rather than inequalities. Recently though, Rasmussen (2016; ‘Adam smith on what is wrong with economic inequality, American Political Science Review, vol. 110, no. 2, 342–52’) argued that Smith worried about the effects of extreme inequalities on the morality and happiness of commercial societies. While we do not deny Smith’s worries on this front and provide new evidence here, the aim of this paper was to show that Smith cared more about the causes of inequalities than their level per se, or independently of the former. Interestingly, Smith seems to reconcile fairness with economic efficiency in his plea for the system of natural liberty in which inequalities arise from the efforts, talents and risk-taking of individuals and ultimately benefit the least well-off. Moreover, and contrary to what Rasmussen claims, Smith addresses several contemporary issues such as the links between inequalities, economic growth, social mobility and politics.
Long-term and herd immunity against SARS-CoV-2: implications from current and past knowledge
Authors: Papachristodoulou Eleni , Kakoullis Loukas , Parperis Konstantinos , Panos George
Published: June 2020

Effective herd immunity against SARS-CoV-2 will be determined on many factors: the percentage of the immune population, the length and effectiveness of the immune response and the stability of the viral epitopes. The required percentage of immune individuals has been estimated to be 50–66% of the population which, given the current infection rates, will take long to be achieved. Furthermore, data from SARS-CoV suggest that the duration of immunity may not be sufficiently significant, while the immunity response against SARS-CoV-2 may not be efficiently effective in all patients, as relapses have already been reported. In addition, the development of mutant strains, which has already been documented, can cause the reemergence of the epidemic. In conclusion, the development of an effective vaccine is an urgent necessity, as long-term natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 may not be sufficient for the control of the current and future outbreaks.
Members of Prevotella Genus Distinctively Modulate Innate Immune and Barrier Functions in a Human Three-Dimensional Endometrial Epithelial Cell Model
Authors: Ilhan Zehra Esra , Łaniewski Paweł , Tonachio Adriana , Herbst-Kralovetz Melissa M
Published: June 2020

Background

Prevotella species are commonly isolated from the reproductive tract of women with obstetric/gynecologic health complications. However, contributions of this genus to changes in local microenvironment are not well characterized. Our objective was to evaluate species-specific effects of Prevotella on the human endometrial epithelium.

Methods

Thirteen Prevotella strains, originally isolated from the human oral cavity, amniotic fluid, endometrium, or vagina (including women with bacterial vaginosis), were obtained from BEI and ATCC resources. Bacteria were evaluated in silico and in vitro using human endometrial epithelial cells (EEC) grown as monolayers or a 3-dimensional (3D) model.

Results

Genomic characterization illustrated metabolic and phylogenetic diversity of Prevotella genus. Among tested species, P. disiens exhibited cytotoxicity. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of the 3D EEC model revealed species-specific colonization patterns and alterations of ultracellular structures. Infection with sialidase-producing P. timonensis resulted in elongated microvilli, and increased MUC3 and MUC4 expression. Infections with Prevotella species, including P. bivia, did not result in significant proinflammatory activation of EEC.

Conclusions

Collectively, findings indicate that Prevotella species are metabolically diverse and overall not cytotoxic or overtly inflammatory in EEC; however, these bacteria can form biofilms, alter barrier properties of the endometrial epithelium, and ultimately impact colonization of secondary colonizers.
Upregulation of the Long Noncoding RNA HULC by Hepatitis C Virus and Its Regulation of Viral Replication
Authors: Kitabayashi Juria , Shirasaki Takayoshi , Shimakami Tetsuro , Nishiyama Tomoaki , Welsch Christoph , Funaki Masaya , Murai Kazuhisa , Sumiyadorj Ariunaa , Takatori Hajime , Kitamura Kazuya , Kawaguchi Kazunori , Arai Kuniaki , Yamashita Taro , Sakai Yoshio , Yamashita Tatsuya , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Honda Masao , Kaneko Shuichi ,   The Hokuriku Liver Study Group
Published: June 2020

Background

Many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have important roles in biological processes. The lncRNA HULC was found to be upregulated in human hepatoma tissues. HULC is thought to be involved in multiple steps of hepatoma development and progression; however, the relationship between HULC and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, which is a leading cause of hepatoma, remains unclear.

Methods

We examined the effect of HCV replication on HULC expression and the underlying mechanism using cell culture systems. Subsequently, we tested the effect of HULC suppression and overexpression on HCV replication. Finally, we examined the impact of HCV eradication on HULC expression using human liver tissue and blood samples.

Results

HCV replication increased HULC expression in cell cultures. A promoter assay showed that an HCV nonstructural protein, NS5A, increased HULC transcription. HULC suppression inhibited HCV replication; conversely, its overexpression enhanced HCV replication. These effects on HCV replication seemed to occur by the modification of HCV translation. Measurements from human liver and blood samples showed that HCV eradication significantly reduced HULC levels in the liver and blood.

Conclusions

HCV infection increases HULC expression in vitro and in vivo. HULC modulates HCV replication through an HCV internal ribosome entry site–directed translation step.
The Possibility of Zero Limb-Work Gaits in Sprawled and Parasagittal Quadrupeds: Insights from Linkages of the Industrial Revolution
Authors: Usherwood J R
Published: June 2020

Synopsis

Animal legs are diverse, complex, and perform many roles. One defining requirement of legs is to facilitate terrestrial travel with some degree of economy. This could, theoretically, be achieved without loss of mechanical energy if the body could take a continuous horizontal path supported by vertical forces only—effectively a wheel-like translation, and a condition closely approximated by walking tortoises. If this is a potential strategy for zero mechanical work cost among quadrupeds, how might the structure, posture, and diversity of both sprawled and parasagittal legs be interpreted? In order to approach this question, various linkages described during the industrial revolution are considered. Watt’s linkage provides an analogue for sprawled vertebrates that uses diagonal limb support and shows how vertical-axis joints could enable approximately straight-line horizontal translation while demanding minimal mechanical power. An additional vertical-axis joint per leg results in the wall-mounted pull-out monitor arm and would enable translation with zero mechanical work due to weight support, without tipping or toppling. This is consistent with force profiles observed in tortoises. The Peaucellier linkage demonstrates that parasagittal limbs with lateral-axis joints could also achieve the zero-work strategy. Suitably tuned four-bar linkages indicate this is feasibly approximated for flexed, biologically realistic limbs. Where “walking” gaits typically show out of phase fluctuation in center of mass kinetic and gravitational potential energy, and running, hopping or trotting gaits are characterized by in-phase energy fluctuations, the zero limb-work strategy approximated by tortoises would show zero fluctuations in kinetic or potential energy. This highlights that some gaits, perhaps particularly those of animals with sprawled or crouched limbs, do not fit current kinetic gait definitions; an additional gait paradigm, the “zero limb-work strategy” is proposed.
Development of NMIJ CRM 5207-a tungsten dot-array for the image sharpness evaluation in scanning electron microscopy – structure evaluation and determination of dot-pitch
Authors: Kumagai Kazuhiro , Kurokawa Akira
Published: June 2020

We have developed a new certified reference material (CRM) for image sharpness evaluation and magnification calibration for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Designed to be suitable for the image sharpness evaluation by the derivative method, the CRM has nanoscale tungsten dot-array structure fabricated on silicon substrate, which gives steep contrast transition from the dot to the substrate in SEM image. The pitch of the dot-array was SI-traceably measured as a specified value with relative expanded uncertainty ($k=2$) of ~1.3%, which can be utilized for the magnification calibration of SEM. Since specimens, as one of the image formation parameters, easily affect image sharpness value, our CRM, as a ‘pinned specimen’, will play an important role to achieve robust and stable image sharpness measurement system.
Disentangling the formation history of galaxies via population-orbit superposition: method validation
Authors: Zhu Ling , van de Ven Glenn , Leaman Ryan , Grand Robert J J , Falcón-Barroso Jesús , Jethwa Prashin , Watkins Laura L , Mao Shude , Poci Adriano , McDermid Richard M , Nelson Dylan
Published: June 2020

We present population-orbit superposition models for external galaxies based on Schwarzschild’s orbit-superposition method, by tagging the orbits with age and metallicity. The models fit the density distributions, kinematic, and age and metallicity maps from integral field unit (IFU) spectroscopy observations. We validate the method and demonstrate its power by applying it to mock data, similar to those obtained by the Multi-Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) IFU on the Very Large Telescope (VLT). These mock data are created from Auriga galaxy simulations, viewed at three different inclination angles (ϑ = 40°, 60°, 80°). Constrained by MUSE-like mock data, our model can recover the galaxy’s stellar orbit distribution projected in orbital circularity λz versus radius r, the intrinsic stellar population distribution in age t versus metallicity Z, and the correlation between orbits’ circularity λz and stellar age t. A physically motivated age–metallicity relation improves the recovering of intrinsic stellar population distributions. We decompose galaxies into cold, warm, and hot+counter-rotating components based on their orbit circularity distribution, and find that the surface density, velocity, velocity dispersion, and age and metallicity maps of each component from our models well reproduce those from simulation, especially for projections close to edge-on. These galaxies exhibit strong global age versus σz relation, which is well recovered by our model. The method has the power to reveal the detailed build-up of stellar structures in galaxies, and offers a complement to local resolved, and high-redshift studies of galaxy evolution.
Biodegradable magnesium alloy with eddy thermal effect for effective and accurate magnetic hyperthermia ablation of tumors
Authors: Yang Nailin , Gong Fei , Cheng Liang , Lei Huali , Li Wei , Sun Zongbin , Ni Caifang , Wang Zhanhui , Liu Zhuang
Published: June 2020

Magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) is able to ablate tumors using an alternating magnetic field (AMF) to heat up magnetocaloric agents (e.g. magnetic nanoparticles) administered into the tumors. For clinical applications, there is still a demand to find new magnetocaloric agents with strong AMF-induced heating performance and excellent biocompatibility. As a kind of biocompatible and biodegradable material, magnesium (Mg) and its alloys have been extensively used in the clinic as an implant metal. Herein, we discovered that the eddy thermal effect of the magnesium alloy (MgA) could be employed for MHT to effectively ablate tumors. Under low-field-intensity AMFs, MgA rods could be rapidly heated, resulting in a temperature increase in nearby tissues. Such AMF-induced eddy thermal heating of MgA could not only be used to kill tumor cells in vitro, but also be employed for effective and accurate ablation of tumors in vivo. In addition to killing tumors in mice, we further demonstrated that VX2 tumors of much larger sizes growing in rabbits after implantation of MgA rods could also be eliminated after exposure to an AMF, illustrating the ability of MgA-based MHT to kill large-sized tumors. Moreover, the implanted MgA rods showed excellent biocompatibility and ∼20% of their mass was degraded within three months. Our work thus discovered for the first time that non-magnetic biodegradable MgA, an extensively used implant metal in clinic, could be used for effective magnetic thermal ablation of tumors under a low-field-intensity AMF. Such a strategy could be readily translated into clinical use.
Excision of a Retrochiasmatic Craniopharyngioma by Transcallosal, Interforniceal Approach With Exoscope Assistance: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Khatri Deepak , Wagner Katherine , Ligas Barbara , Higbie Catherine , Langer David
Published: June 2020

Retrochiasmatic craniopharyngiomas are difficult to treat due to their close proximity to critical neurovascular structures. Several surgical approaches with distinct advantages and limitations have been described to access these tumors, including extended transnasal endoscopic approach (ETEA), subtemporal, translamina terminalis, and transpetrosal approach.
1-3

We present a 51-yr-old male with a large retrochiasmatic craniopharyngioma extending into the third ventricle, causing obstructive hydrocephalus. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a tumor cyst abutting the fornices expanding the space between two internal cerebral veins (ICV). After surgical consent, we decided to take advantage of this corridor to approach the tumor in its long axis. Surgical goal was to achieve cyst decompression with “safe maximal” resection of the solid component at last to preserve the pituitary function. Though the long axis of the tumor could be approached using ETEA, we preferred this approach in view of cyst decompression early in the surgery while completely avoiding risks such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea, internal carotid artery (ICA) injury, and sinonasal complications. We utilized a 3-dimensional 4 K exoscope, which provides an excellent ergonomic position, and a high-resolution immersive view compared to a microscope or endoscope. Cyst decompression and near-total resection of the solid component was achieved. Postoperatively, his headaches improved and he was neurologically intact with intact neuroendocrine function. Approach-related risks may include but not limited to hemorrhage due to the rupture of venous sinuses or ICV, stalk or hypothalamus injury, and memory disturbances due to forniceal injury. To conclude, the transcallosal, interforniceal approach to retrochiasmatic craniopharyngiomas may provide a safe surgical corridor in select cases.

Patient consented to the proposed procedure. All radiological images have been anonymized. IRB/ethics committee approval was not required.
What is the meaning of (statistical) life? Benefit–cost analysis in the time of COVID-19
Authors: Colmer Jonathan
Published: June 2020

Efforts to support public policy decisions need to be conducted carefully and thoughtfully. Recent efforts to estimate the social benefits of reductions in mortality risks associated with COVID-19 interventions are likely understated. There are large uncertainties over how much larger the social benefits could be. This raises questions about how helpful conventional approaches to valuing mortality and morbidity risks for benefit–cost analyses can be in contexts such as the current crisis.
A Conceptual Model of Small Business Owners’ Unique Retirement Decisions: Multilevel Antecedents and Retirement Adjustment Consequences
Authors: Alterman Valeria , Froidevaux Ariane , Fasbender Ulrike , Xie Jiangpei
Published: June 2020

The research on small business owners’ (SBOs’) retirement process has been very limited in the literature. In this commentary, we first outline SBOs’ 4 specific retirement decision options, including family succession, retire from management while maintaining ownership, independent sale, and liquidation. We then examine their unique multilevel antecedents that may shape SBOs’ retirement decisions at the individual (e.g., psychological ownership), relational (e.g., business-related family conflict and potential successor), and business (e.g., presence of business partners and business financial value) levels. Next, we explain how SBOs’ specific retirement decisions may shape their retirement adjustment in terms of both psychological and financial well-being. The overall purpose of this article is to provide a conceptual model of SBOs’ unique retirement decisions to support the understanding of SBO’s retirement process and help the literature move forward on this topic.
Wellness and Drivers of Burnout
Authors: Talwalkar Vishwas R. , Weiss Jennifer
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Promoting physician wellness in the current environment of increasing burnout presents a great challenge to the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society and its members. Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) has been a leader in recognizing this problem and organizing to combat it. The increasing rates of job dissatisfaction, burnout, depression, and suicide demand comprehensive and focused action to identify and address the drivers of burnout. Continuing to ignore this problem endangers our organization, our members, our families, and our patients.

Methods:

A review of relevant literature and the work of the POSNA wellness committee was completed.

Results:

Addressing the epidemic of burnout requires a sustained effort to address intrinsic factors such as health, performance, and resilience as well as external factors that affect practice efficiency and environment.

Discussion and Conclusions:

The goal of this effort is restoration of joy to the practitioners in medicine and more compassionate care for the patients who seek it.
The Effect of Prenatal Treatments on Offspring Events in the Presence of Competing Events
Authors: Chiu Yu-Han , Stensrud Mats J. , Dahabreh Issa J. , Rinaudo Paolo , Diamond Michael P. , Hsu John , Hernández-Díaz Sonia , Hernán Miguel A.
Published: June 2020

When studying the effect of a prenatal treatment on events in the offspring, failure to produce a live birth is a competing event for events in the offspring. A common approach to handle this competing event is reporting both the treatment-specific probabilities of live births and of the event of interest among live births. However, when the treatment affects the competing event, the latter probability cannot be interpreted as the causal effect among live births. Here we provide guidance for researchers interested in the effects of prenatal treatments on events in the offspring in the presence of the competing event “no live birth.” We review the total effect of treatment on a composite event and the total effect of treatment on the event of interest. These causal effects are helpful for decision making but are agnostic about the pathways through which treatment affects the event of interest. Therefore, based on recent work, we also review three causal effects that explicitly consider the pathways through which treatment may affect the event of interest in the presence of competing events: the direct effect of treatment on the event of interest under an intervention to eliminate the competing event, the separable direct and indirect effects of treatment on the event of interest, and the effect of treatment in the principal stratum of those who would have had a live birth irrespective of treatment choice. As an illustrative example, we use a randomized trial of fertility treatments and risk of neonatal complications.
Compound Coherent Plane-Wave Ultrasound Imaging of Vascular Malformations of the Orbit
Authors: Campbell Ashley A. , Urs Raksha , Callahan Alison B. , Silverman Ronald H. , Kazim Michael
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Prior color-flow Doppler ultrasound studies of the eye have been performed with systems that exceed US Food and Drug Administration permissible ophthalmic ultrasonic energy limits. The authors report a study of orbital vascular malformations using a novel, Food and Drug Administration compliant, ultrafast compound coherent plane-wave ultrasound device to produce power Doppler images.

Methods:

Using a Verasonics Vantage 128 ultrasound engine and a user-developed MATLAB program with a 5-MHz linear-array probe, compound coherent plane-wave ultrasound data were collected on patients with orbital vascular malformations. Real-time color-flow Doppler visualized orbital blood flow. Power Doppler images were produced by post-processing compound coherent plane-wave ultrasound data acquired continuously for 2 seconds.

Results:

Compound coherent plane-wave ultrasound was performed on 3 orbital vascular malformations (1 venolymphatic malformation, 1 infantile hemangioma, and 1 arteriovenous malformation). Compound coherent plane-wave ultrasound produced a high-resolution depiction of orbital blood flow for orbital vascular malformations with high sensitivity to slow flow.

Conclusions:

Analysis of blood flow within orbital lesions informs treatment planning. Compound coherent plane-wave ultrasound is an emerging ultrasound modality that falls within the Food and Drug Administration guidelines for use in the orbit and provides information to characterize orbital vascular malformations.
Differences Between Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions of the Vulva and the Cervix
Authors: Maclean Allan B. , Jones Ronald W.
Published: June 2020

The Lower Anogenital Squamous Terminology project and subsequent publication have grouped preinvasive human papillomavirus–associated squamous intraepithelial lesions of the lower genital tract and adjacent skin as a single entity. We are concerned that as a result of this grouping, some of the clinically relevant differences may not be taken into consideration. We describe differences between high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion of the vulva and cervix (vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia), in embryology (arising from ectoderm vs mesoderm), clinical presentations (symptoms or signs due to many vulvar lesions vs abnormal cytology), examination techniques and diagnosis (clinical examination of potentially widely involved areas vs colposcopy of the transformation zone), natural history, management, and follow-up requirements (long-term clinical assessment vs cytology and human papillomavirus testing). We believe that failure to understand these important differences will lead to errors in management.
Somatic Symptom Perception From a Predictive Processing Perspective: An Empirical Test Using the Thermal Grill Illusion
Authors: Bräscher Anne-Kathrin , Sütterlin Stefan , Scheuren Raymonde , Van den Bergh Omer , Witthöft Michael
Published: June 2020

Objective

In a predictive processing perspective, symptom perceptions result from an integration of preexisting information in memory with sensory input. Physical symptoms can therefore reflect the relative predominance of either sensory input or preexisting information. In this study, we used the thermal grill illusion (TGI), which applies interlaced warm and cool temperatures to the skin to create a paradoxical heat-pain experience. Assuming that the TGI compared with single-temperature stimulation relies more importantly on an active integration process of the brain to create this paradoxical sensation, we tested the hypothesis whether a manipulation of the expectations during TGI would have more impact than during single-temperature stimulation.

Methods

Sixty-four participants received different temperature combinations (16/16°C, 40/40°C, 16/40°C) with neutral, positive (“placebo”), and negative (“nocebo”) instructions. Subjective stimulus intensity was rated, and neuroticism and absorption (openness to absorbing and self-altering experiences) served as potential moderating factors.

Results

The TGI condition was rated highest. Overall, negative instructions increased (p < .001, d = 0.58), whereas positive instructions did not significantly change the TGI intensity perception (versus neutral; p = .144, d = 0.19). In the TGI condition, increased modulation of pain was observed with higher neuroticism (β = 0.33, p = .005) and absorption (β = 0.30, p = .010).

Conclusions

Whereas negative instructions induced a nocebo effect, no placebo effect emerged after positive instructions. The findings are in line with the predictive processing model of symptom perception for participants with higher levels of neuroticism and absorption.
Effects of Granulocyte Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor Inhibition on the Skin/Nerve Cell Model In Vitro
Authors: Hwang Na-Hyun , Jung Jae-Eun , Lee Jae-Sun , Jeong Seong-Ho , Dhong Eun-Sang , Han Seung-Kyu
Published: June 2020

The present study is based on the concept of neuro-aging and how it may affect surrounding skin cells. It has been shown that many factors play a significant role in skin homeostasis by interfering with various cytokines, either through activation or inhibition. Granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is generally recognized as an inflammatory cytokine, and our previous study has shown its effects on neuronal senescence after ultraviolet (UV) irradiation of skin cells. Following our previous work, this study was performed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of a GM-CSF antagonist, and how it may play an essential role in mediating anti-senescence and anti-inflammatory effects in the keratinocyte/nerve aging model. When human blastoma cells (SH-SY5Y) were treated with 10 ng/ml of GM-CSF, the levels of regulatory RNAs associated with aging, such as matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), nuclear factor NF-kappa-B p50 subunit (NFKB), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) increased, whereas GM-CSF inhibition caused their expression to decrease. A decrease in the antioxidant, glutathione (GSH) was observed after SH-SY5Y cells were treated with GM-CSF. This study confirms that this GM-CSF antagonist may play an important role in neural senescence, where inhibition may be a new target in the skin/nerve aging model.
Long Term Follow-Up of Pediatric Mandibular Reconstruction With Human Transforming Growth Factor-β3
Authors: Ferretti Carlo , Ripamonti Ugo
Published: June 2020

Translating bone regeneration induced by recombinant human bone morphogenetic proteins from animal models to human patients has proven inexplicably inconsistent. This prompted us to test in 5 pediatric patients, an alternative osteoinductive morphogen, recombinant human transforming growth factor β3 (hTGF-β3), to reconstruct mandibular defects of such a size to preclude reconstruction with autologous bone. An osteoinductive implant of human demineralized bone matrix (DBM) loaded with 125 μg hTGF-β3 per gram of DBM was implanted into one defect, and 250 μg hTGF-β3 per gram of DBM in another. Thereafter in 3 patients limited amounts of particulate cortico-cancellous bone graft harvested from the posterior iliac crest were combined with 250 μg hTGF-β3 per gram of DBM. Patients were followed up for 3 to 6 years. Three patients achieved clinically significant osteoinduction, 1 patient with hTGF-β3 only, and 2 by combining hTGF-β3 with a small supplement of autologous bone. One patient with hTGF-β3 only and followed up for 5 years retains a viable reconstruction but has had sub-optimal bone regeneration. One patient had osteoinductive failure due to sepsis although the plate reconstruction remains viable. Recombinant human TGF-β3 initiates osteoinduction in humans and potentiates autologous bone graft activity allowing the reconstruction of large mandibular defects in pediatric patients.
Paediatric Dentistry and the coronavirus (COVID-19) response in the North East of England and North Cumbria
Authors: Simpson S , Sumner O , Holliday R , Currie CC , Hind V , Lush N , Burbridge LA , Cole BOI
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Coronavirus (COVID-19) has dramatically changed the landscape of dentistry including Paediatric Dentistry. This paper explores paediatric patient data within a wider service evaluation completed within an Urgent Dental Care Centre in the North East of England and North Cumbria over a 6-week period.

Aim

To assess demand for the service, patient demographics and inform paediatric urgent dental care pathways.

Main outcome methods

Data collected included key characteristics of paediatric patients accessing Paediatric Dental Services from 23rd March to 3rd May 2020. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.

Results

There were 369 consultations (207 telephone, 124 face-to-face and 38 Out of Hours consultations). The mean age of children accessing the service was 7 years old. 7% of those attending face-to-face visits were reattenders. The most common diagnoses were irreversible pulpitis and dental trauma. 49% of face-to-face consultations resulted in extractions, 28% with General Anaesthetic, and 21% with Local Anaesthetic.

Conclusion

Management of dental emergencies provided by the Urgent Dental Care Centre for paediatric patients has largely been effective and confirmed the efficacy of patient pathways established.

Three in Brief Points

⍰ Describes the approach adopted in the North East of England and North Cumbria to managing paediatric dental emergencies during the coronavirus pandemic

⍰ Provides an overview of dental problems and management provided to paediatric patients in the first 6 weeks of the coronavirus pandemic

⍰ Confirms the need for general anaesthetic services for exodontia in the paediatric population
Early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak in Hungary and post-lockdown scenarios
Authors: Röst Gergely , Bartha Ferenc A. , Bogya Norbert , Boldog Péter , Dénes Attila , Ferenci Tamás , Horváth Krisztina J. , Juhász Attila , Nagy Csilla , Tekeli Tamás , Vizi Zsolt , Oroszi Beatrix
Published: June 2020

COVID-19 epidemic has been suppressed in Hungary due to timely non-pharmaceutical interventions, prompting a huge reduction in the number of contacts and transmission of the virus. This strategy was effective in preventing epidemic growth and reducing the incidence of COVID-19 to low levels. In this report, we present the first epidemiological and statistical analysis of the early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak in Hungary. Then, we establish an age-structured compartmental model to explore alternative post-lockdown scenarios. We incorporate various factors, such as age-specific measures, seasonal effects, and spatial heterogeneity to project the possible peak size and disease burden of a COVID-19 epidemic wave after the current measures are relaxed.