bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Clinical and Biological Effects of Homeopathically Prepared Signaling Molecules: A Scoping Review
Authors: Manchanda Raj Kumar , Gupta Meeta , Gupta Ankit , Haselen Robbert van
Published: November 2021

Background Signaling molecules such as cytokines and interleukins are key mediators for the immune response in responding to internal or external stimuli. Homeopathically prepared signaling molecules have been used therapeutically for about five decades. However, these types of products are not available in many countries and their usage by homoeopaths is also infrequent. The aim of this scoping review is to map the available pre-clinical and clinical data related to the therapeutic use of homeopathically prepared signaling molecules.

Methods We conducted a scoping review of clinical and pre-clinical studies of therapeutically used signaling molecules that have been prepared in accordance with an officially recognized homeopathic pharmacopoeia. Articles in peer-reviewed journals reporting original clinical or pre-clinical research of homeopathically prepared signaling molecules such as interleukins, cytokines, antibodies, growth factors, neuropeptides and hormones, were eligible. Non-English language papers were excluded, unless we were able to obtain an English translation. An appraisal of eligible studies took place by rating the direction of the outcomes on a five-point scale. The quality of the papers was not systematically assessed.

Results Twenty-eight eligible papers, reporting findings for four different manufacturers' products, were identified and reviewed. Seventeen papers reported pre-clinical studies, and 11 reported clinical studies (six experimental, five observational). A wide range of signaling molecules, as well as normal T-cell expressed specific nucleic acids, were used. A majority of the products (21 of 28) contained two or more signaling molecules. The most common clinical indications were psoriasis, vitiligo, rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory allergies, polycystic ovary syndrome, and herpes. The direction of the outcomes was positive in 26 papers and unclear in two papers.

Conclusion This scoping review found that there is a body of evidence on the use of homeopathically prepared signaling molecules. From a homeopathy perspective, these substances appear to have therapeutic potential. Further steps to explore this potential are warranted.
On the origin of the anomalous sign reversal in the Hall effect in Nb thin films
Authors: Zhou Dan , Zeng Han-Song , Tang Rujun , Hang Zhihong , Hu Zhiwei , Pei Zixi , Ling Xinsheng
Published: November 2021

We re-visit the anomalous sign reversal problem in the Hall effect of the sputtered Nb thin films. We find that the anomalous sign reversal in the Hall effect is extremely sensitive to a small tilting of the magnetic field and to the magnitude of the applied current. Large anomalous variations are also observed in the symmetric part of the transverse resistance Rxy
. We suggest that the surface current loops on superconducting grains at the edges of the superconducting thin films may be responsible for the Hall sign reversal and the accompanying anomalous effects in the symmetric part of Rxy
.
Preparation of PSFO and LPSFO nanofibers by electrospinning and their electronic transport and magnetic properties
Authors: Su Ying , Zhu Dong-Yang , Zhang Ting-Ting , Zhang Yu-Rui , Han Wen-Peng , Zhang Jun , Ramakrishna Seeram , Long Yun-Ze
Published: November 2021

Pr0.5Sr0.5FeO3 (PSFO) and La0.25Pr0.25Sr0.5FeO3 (LPSFO) nanofibers are prepared by electrospinning followed by calcination, and their morphologies, microstructures, electronic transports, and magnetic properties are studied systematically. The temperature-dependent resistance curves of PSFO and LPSFO nanofibers are measured in a temperature range from 300 K to 10 K. With the temperature lowering, the resistance increases gradually and then decreases sharply due to the occurrence of ferromagnetic metal phase. The metal–insulator transition temperatures are about 110 K and 180 K for PSFO and LPSFO nanofibers, respectively. The electronic conduction behavior above the transition temperature can be described by one-dimensional Mott’s variable-range hopping (VRH) model. The hysteresis loops and the field-cooled (FC) and zero-field-cooled (ZFC) curves show that both PSFO nanofiber and LPSFO nanofiber exhibit ferromagnetism. Although the doping of La reduces the overall magnetization intensity of the material, it increases the ferromagnetic ratio of the system, which may improve the performance of LPSFO in solid oxide fuel cell.
Strong near-field couplings of anapole modes and formation of higher-order electromagnetic modes in stacked all-dielectric nanodisks
Authors: Liu Bin , Hu Ma-Long , Zhang Yi-Wen , You Yue , Liang Zhao-Guo , Peng Xiao-Niu , Yang Zhong-Jian
Published: November 2021

We theoretically study the near-field couplings of two stacked all-dielectric nanodisks, where each disk has an electric anapole mode consisting of an electric dipole mode and an electric toroidal dipole (ETD) mode. Strong bonding and anti-bonding hybridizations of the ETD modes of the two disks occur. The bonding hybridized ETD can interfere with the dimer’s electric dipole mode and induce a new electric anapole mode. The anti-bonding hybridization of the ETD modes can induce a magnetic toroidal dipole (MTD) response in the disk dimer. The MTD and magnetic dipole resonances of the dimer form a magnetic anapole mode. Thus, two dips associated with the hybridized modes appear on the scattering spectrum of the dimer. Furthermore, the MTD mode is also accompanied by an electric toroidal quadrupole mode. The hybridizations of the ETD and the induced higher-order modes can be adjusted by varying the geometries of the disks. The strong anapole mode couplings and the corresponding rich higher-order mode responses in simple all-dielectric nanostructures can provide new opportunities for nanoscale optical manipulations.
Peculiarities of shaping of architectural moulds and profiles in St. Petersburg architecture of the XVIII century
Authors: Vozniak E R
Published: November 2021

The article discusses the formation of moulds and string cornices in the St. Petersburg architecture of the XVIII century. Significant distinctions of Russian architectural moulds in comparison with their analogues existent in classical orders of Western European architecture are revealed. The causes lying underneath of the regional transformation of architectural elements are analyzed. The examples of designing profiles in each individual style period of the XVIII century are provided. It has been found out that the whole first half of the XVIII century is characterized by seamless profiles without complex intercalated moulds, such as dentils, modillions, and consoles. The inherent features of the Elizabethan Baroque are unique moulds with an upper notch. The period of Early Classicism is characterized with the usage of both Baroque and classical moulds in the style of J. Vignola. Strict classicism was the period when architects used moulds in the style of A. Palladio and the usual practice was application of Greek moulds. On the basis of the analysis carried out in the research, characteristic features and dating elements of each stylistic period are determined, and the elements inherent for the unique style of architects who created their works during the specified period are described.
Removal of Thorium from industrial waste via electrosorption technique
Authors: Aziman Eli Syafiqah , Ismail Aznan Fazli
Published: November 2021

Activated carbon electrode has been tested as a potential sorbent for removal of Th ions from the actual wastewater sampel by electrosorption technique. The objective of this research is to investigate the performance of activated carbon electrode for remediation of real thorium sample. Adsorption of thorium ion by activated carbon electrodes was investigated with contact time up to 180 minutes by using positive potential at 0.2V (vs. Ag/AgCl), 0.4V (vs. Ag/AgCl) and 0.6v (vs. Ag/AgCl). Result shows that the condition has the highest percentage of thorium ion removal is at 0.6V (vs. Ag/AgCl) with highest specific capacity at 0.5 mg Th/g Carbon. Based on this research, the removal of thorium through electrosorption technique has the tendency to remove thorium ion and parameter such as contact time of electrosorption and voltage applied should be studied in more depth, where the removal of thorium is expected to increase.
Perspectives of bark dump recycling at wood processing enterprises
Authors: Svoykin F , Birman A , Bacherikov I , Mater O , Bozhbov V
Published: November 2021

Woodworking and pulp-and-paper mill areas accumulate significant volumes of wood debarking waste, which is stored in bark dumps with a volume of up to 1 000 000 m3. Methods for recycling bark, both fresh and stagnant, are proposed through the production of fuel briquettes and pellets, composting, building materials, and the use of combustible gases that accumulate in the depths of the old bark layers. Characteristics of extractive substances obtained from bark are given and their fields of application are considered. Possible ways of recultivation of old bark dumps, ways of waste water treatment are offered. The recommendations on reduction of technogenic hazard of bark dumps are given and the necessity of constant monitoring of such objects is grounded. The technological scheme of complex use of bark dump materials on the basis of developments of Saint-Petersburg State Forest Technical University is proposed.
Fundamentals of atomic and close-to-atomic scale manufacturing: a review
Authors: Gao Jian , Luo Xichun , Fang Fengzhou , Sun Jining
Published: November 2021

Atomic and close-to-atomic scale manufacturing (ACSM) represents techniques for manufacturing high-end products in various fields, including future-generation computing, communication, energy, and medical devices and materials. In this paper, the theoretical boundary between ACSM and classical manufacturing is identified after a thorough discussion of quantum mechanics and their effects on manufacturing. The physical origins of atomic interactions and energy beams-matter interactions are revealed from the point view of quantum mechanics. The mechanisms that dominate several key ACSM processes are introduced, and a current numerical study on these processes is reviewed. A comparison of current ACSM processes is performed in terms of dominant interactions, representative processes, resolution and modelling methods. Future fundamental research is proposed for establishing new approaches for modelling ACSM, material selection or preparation and control of manufacturing tools and environments. This paper is by no means comprehensive but provides a starting point for further systematic investigation of ACSM fundamentals to support and accelerate its industrial scale implementation in the near future.
Kletzer on Permissions
Authors: Vinx Lars
Published: November 2021

Kelsen argued that any legal system claims a monopoly of the legitimate use of coercive force. Where there is law, Kelsen held, uses of force are prohibited unless they are specifically authorized by the law. Christoph Kletzer's reconstruction of the Pure Theory of Law offers a more austere picture of the relation between law and coercive force. According to Kletzer, the law regulates the use of force simply by permitting it. To make good on this claim, Kletzer must show that it is possible to give a satisfactory description of the workings of legal order in terms of permissions of the use of force alone. This paper argues that an account of legal order as austere as this cannot be given. The permissive operations of the law Kletzer takes to be fundamental presuppose a prior prohibition of unlawful uses of coercion.
Cultural Studies Revisited: Determinate Conditions and the Depressive Position
Authors: Cherniavsky Eva
Published: November 2021

This essay reflects on the well-established debates between critique and the various modalities of “post-critique” via a pairing of Stuart Hall’s seminal essay “Cultural Studies: Two Paradigms,” and Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick’s equally influential piece on “Paranoid Reading and Reparative Reading.” Juxtaposing the structuralist to the culturalist paradigms in cultural studies, Hall’s essays argue for the necessity of a continuous critical movement between attending to the structures that subject us and attending to the terrain of concrete, tenacious, and improvised historical struggle. While Sedgwick’s essay is routinely cited for its endorsement of reparative reading practices, I argue that her call is not to abandon suspicion, but to engage in a similar movement, or “oscillation,” between the exhaustive alertness of paranoia and the small, but sustaining, world-building practices she associates with the “depressive” position. In the second part of the essay, I turn to Ling Ma’s debut novel Severance (2018) as a literary text that hones this critical movement and, more particularly, invites us to think the value of routine, repetition, and drifting as something other and more complex than the erasure of agency.
As the World Turns; or Against Methodology
Authors: Margolis Stacey
Published: November 2021

The last ten years have seen the rise of an astonishing number of critical “turns” designed to revitalize literary studies by highlighting the political utility of certain methodologies. This essay argues that the critical investment in the power of methodology, especially the recent commitment to reparative reading practices, derives from a misunderstanding of what methodology is and what it can do. While fiction and poetry do often have political effects, these effects cannot be produced, regulated, or directed by particular methods of interpretation.
Deep learning tackles single-cell analysis—a survey of deep learning for scRNA-seq analysis
Authors: Flores Mario , Liu Zhentao , Zhang Tinghe , Hasib Md Musaddaqui , Chiu Yu-Chiao , Ye Zhenqing , Paniagua Karla , Jo Sumin , Zhang Jianqiu , Gao Shou-Jiang , Jin Yu-Fang , Chen Yidong , Huang Yufei
Published: November 2021

Since its selection as the method of the year in 2013, single-cell technologies have become mature enough to provide answers to complex research questions. With the growth of single-cell profiling technologies, there has also been a significant increase in data collected from single-cell profilings, resulting in computational challenges to process these massive and complicated datasets. To address these challenges, deep learning (DL) is positioned as a competitive alternative for single-cell analyses besides the traditional machine learning approaches. Here, we survey a total of 25 DL algorithms and their applicability for a specific step in the single cell RNA-seq processing pipeline. Specifically, we establish a unified mathematical representation of variational autoencoder, autoencoder, generative adversarial network and supervised DL models, compare the training strategies and loss functions for these models, and relate the loss functions of these models to specific objectives of the data processing step. Such a presentation will allow readers to choose suitable algorithms for their particular objective at each step in the pipeline. We envision that this survey will serve as an important information portal for learning the application of DL for scRNA-seq analysis and inspire innovative uses of DL to address a broader range of new challenges in emerging multi-omics and spatial single-cell sequencing.
Cholesteryl ester transfer protein inhibitors: from high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol lowering agents?
Authors: Nurmohamed Nick S , Ditmarsch Marc , Kastelein John J P
Published: November 2021

Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is a liver-synthesized glycoprotein whose main functions are facilitating transfer of both cholesteryl esters from high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles to apolipoprotein B (apoB)-containing particles as well as transfer of triglycerides from apoB-containing particles to HDL particles. Novel crystallographic data have shown that CETP exchanges lipids in the circulation by a dual molecular mechanism. Recently, it has been suggested that the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) benefit from CETP inhibition is the consequence of the achieved low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and apoB reduction, rather than through the HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) increase. The use of CETP inhibitors is supported by genetic evidence from Mendelian randomization studies, showing that LDL-C lowering by CETP gene variants achieves equal ASCVD risk reduction as LDL-C lowering through gene proxies for statins, ezetimibe, and proprotein convertase subtilisin–kexin Type 9 inhibitors. Although first-generation CETP inhibitors (torcetrapib, dalcetrapib) were mainly raising HDL-C or had off-target effects, next generation CETP inhibitors (anacetrapib, evacetrapib) were also effective in reducing LDL-C and apoB and have been proven safe. Anacetrapib was the first CETP inhibitor to be proven effective in reducing ASCVD risk. In addition, CETP inhibitors have been shown to lower the risk of new-onset diabetes, improve glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity. The newest-generation CETP inhibitor obicetrapib, specifically designed to lower LDL-C and apoB, has achieved significant reductions of LDL-C up to 45%. Obicetrapib, about to enter phase III development, could become the first CETP inhibitor as add-on therapy for patients not reaching their guideline LDL-C targets.
Spatial Distribution of Lepidopteran Stem Borers in Louisiana Rice Fields
Authors: Mulcahy Megan M , Wilson Blake E , Reagan Thomas E
Published: November 2021

Louisiana rice is attacked by a complex of lepidopteran stem borers that injure the vegetative and reproductive stages of rice, reducing tillering and grain output. Currently, insecticidal seed treatments are used in Louisiana as a preemptive means to control stem borers in rice. Our objective was to better understand the spatial distribution of stem borers in Louisiana rice fields. Thirteen nontreated commercial rice fields in Louisiana were mapped using GPS software and surveyed for stem borer damage in 2017 and 2018. Damage was recorded by counting the number of blank panicles (whiteheads) within quadrats located at different areas in each field. An ANOVA, spatial interpolation, hotspot analysis, and negative binomial regression were used to determine where stem borer injury was concentrated and whether the distribution of these pests was influenced by rice stand count, field composition, and site location. The results show that stem borers are typically aggregated along field edges, with population density decreasing toward the center of rice fields. Stem borer damage was 4.2- and 3.9-fold greater along field edges than in field centers in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Hotspot spatial analysis revealed 41.7 and 52.1% of low-density clusters occurred at or near field centers, respectively. Negative binomial regression revealed stem borer injury declines with increasing distance from field edges, with regional differences in infestation levels. This suggests stem borer control efforts could be spatially targeted to improve the efficiency of pest management.
First Look Into the Ambrosia Beetle–Fungus Symbiosis Present in Commercial Avocado Orchards in Michoacán, Mexico
Authors: Ángel-Restrepo M , Parra P P , Ochoa-Ascencio S , Fernández-Pavía S , Vázquez-Marrufo G , Equihua-Martínez A , Barrientos-Priego A F , Ploetz R C , Konkol J L , Saucedo-Carabez J R , Gazis R
Published: November 2021

Most beetle–fungus symbioses do not represent a threat to agricultural and natural ecosystems; however, a few beetles are able to inoculate healthy hosts with disease-causing fungal symbionts. Here, we report the putative nutritional symbionts associated with five native species of ambrosia beetles colonizing commercial avocado trees in four locations in Michoacán. Knowing which beetles are present in the commercial orchards and the surrounding areas, as well as their fungal associates, is imperative for developing a realistic risk assessment and an effective monitoring system that allows for timely management actions. Phylogenetic analysis revealed five potentially new, previously undescribed species of Raffaelea, and three known species (R. arxi, R. brunnea, R. fusca). The genus Raffaelea was recovered from all the beetle species and across the different locations. Raffaelea lauricola (RL), which causes a deadly vascular fungal disease known as laurel wilt (LW) in Lauraceae species, including avocado, was not recovered. This study points to the imminent danger of native ambrosia beetles spreading RL if the pathogen is introduced to Mexico’s avocado orchards or natural areas given that these beetles are associated with Raffaelea species and that lateral transfer of RL among ambrosia beetles in Florida suggests that the likelihood of this phenomenon increases when partners are phylogenetically close. Therefore, this study provides important information about the potential vectors of RL in Mexico and other avocado producing regions. Confirming beetle–fungal identities in these areas is especially important given the serious threat laurel wilt disease represents to the avocado industry in Mexico.
Accurate formulae for P-wave reflectivity and transmissivity for a non-welded contact interface with the effect of in situ vertical stress
Authors: Chen Fubin , Zong Zhaoyun , Yin Xingyao , Feng Yanwen
Published: November 2021

A detailed knowledge of wave reflectivity parametrization for non-welded interface plays an important role in fracture characterization and reservoir prediction. However, the effect of in situ stress on reflectivity formulae for non-welded contact interface remains unclear. Here based on the linear-slip theory and acoustoelasticity theory, we propose the accurate P-wave reflectivity and transmissivity formulae for planar P wave incident upon the non-welded interface between two elastic half-spaces under the in situ vertical stress. The discontinuous boundary conditions coupled with vertical stress is used to represent the non-welded contact interface for the elastic and viscous cases. Then accurate formulae are derived by solving the boundary conditions. Numerical results show that the proposed formulae are frequency-dependent and the non-welded interface performs as high- and low-pass filters for reflected and transmittedP wave at low stress, respectively. Moreover, initial vertical stress can change the maximum amplitudes of reflection and transmission coefficients and the corresponding critical angles. Particularly, vertical stress weakens the fracture-induced anomalous seismic reflections in zones lack of significant impedance contrasts at low incidence angles. The sensitivity analysis suggests a non-welded interface transforms into a welded interface at normal compliance ${\Delta _N} \le 5 \times {10^{ - 11}}$ m Pa−1. The phases and amplitudes of the four coefficients reach the maximum values at the specific viscosity $\eta \approx {10^6}$ Pa·s m−1 for the case of P wave obliquely incident upon the viscous interface at incidence angle 30°. Finally, we describe a method for simulating seismic reflection at the interface of two elastic media with experimental measurement.
Combined video–hydroacoustic survey of nearshore semi-pelagic rockfish in untrawlable habitats
Authors: Rasmuson Leif K , Fields Stephanie A , Blume Matthew T O , Lawrence Kelly A , Rankin Polly S
Published: November 2021

New survey technologies are needed to survey untrawlable habitats in a cost-effective and nonlethal manner with minimal impacts on habitat and nontarget species. Here, we test the efficacy of integrating data from a suspended underwater camera with acoustic data to generate population estimates for nearshore Black (Sebastes melanops), Blue (Sebastes mystinus), and Deacon Rockfish (Sebastes diaconus). We surveyed Seal Rock Reef near Newport, Oregon, and compared our results to population estimates derived from a mark–recapture study conducted at the same reef. We compared fish density estimates from video deployments to those calculated from applying published target strength to length regression models to our acoustics data. Densities derived from the acoustics, using a generalized physoclist target strength to length model, were significantly different from densities derived from video; conversely, a rockfish-specific target strength to length model generated densities that were not statistically different from video densities. To assess whether, and how, fish behaviour was influenced by the presence of an underwater camera, we deployed our camera under the acoustic transducer. No statistical difference was observed in the acoustic density of fish before, during, or after camera deployment. Our work suggests that combining acoustic and stereo video data provided a similar population estimate to historic survey results, but an accurate acoustic density estimate was dependent on using the proper acoustic target–strength model. We contend that combining camera data with hydroacoustic data is effective for surveying rockfish in untrawlable habitats.
Characterization of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infections in Women Who Received Injectable Cabotegravir or Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate/Emtricitabine for HIV Prevention: HPTN 084
Authors: Eshleman Susan H , Fogel Jessica M , Piwowar-Manning Estelle , Chau Gordon , Cummings Vanessa , Agyei Yaw , Richardson Paul , Sullivan Philip , Haines Casey D , Bushman Lane R , Petropoulos Christos , Persaud Deborah , Kofron Ryan , Hendrix Craig W , Anderson Peter L , Farrior Jennifer , Mellors John , Adeyeye Adeola , Rinehart Alex , St Clair Marty , Ford Susan , Rooney James F , Mathew Carrie-Anne , Hunidzarira Portia , Spooner Elizabeth , Mpendo Juliet , Nair Gonasagrie , Cohen Myron S , Hughes James P , Hosseinipour Mina , Hanscom Brett , Delany-Moretlwe Sinead , Marzinke Mark A
Published: November 2021

Background

HIV Prevention Trials Network 084 demonstrated that long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB) was superior to daily oral tenofovir (TFV) disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC) for preventing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in sub-Saharan African women. This report describes HIV infections that occurred in the trial before unblinding.

Methods

Testing was performed using HIV diagnostic assays, viral load testing, a single-copy RNA assay, and HIV genotyping. Plasma CAB, plasma TFV, and intraerythrocytic TFV-diphosphate concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Forty HIV infections were identified (CAB arm, 1 baseline infection, 3 incident infections; TDF/FTC arm, 36 incident infections). The incident infections in the CAB arm included 2 with no recent drug exposure and no CAB injections and 1 with delayed injections; in 35 of 36 cases in the TDF/FTC arm, drug concentrations indicated low or no adherence. None of the cases had CAB resistance. Nine women in the TDF/FTC arm had nonnucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor resistance; 1 had the nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor resistance mutation, M184V.

Conclusions

Almost all incident HIV infections occurred in the setting of unquantifiable or low drug concentrations. CAB resistance was not detected. Transmitted nonnucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor resistance was common; 1 woman may have acquired nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor resistance from study drug exposure.
Impact of Modified Caneberry Trellis Systems on Microclimate and Habitat Suitability forDrosophila suzukii(Diptera: Drosophilidae)
Authors: Schöneberg Torsten , English Leah A , Popp Jennie , Hamby Kelly A
Published: November 2021

Caneberries are trellised to facilitate harvest and agrochemical applications as well as to improve crop yield and quality. Trellising can also increase airflow and light penetration within the canopy and affect its microclimate. We compared an experimental trellis that split the canopy into halves to standard I- and V-trellises, measuring Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) fruit infestation as well as canopy temperature and relative humidity in raspberries at two commercial you-pick diversified farms. To evaluate the combined effects of trellising systems and pruning, we pruned one half of each row in blackberry plantings at two research farms and assessed D. suzukii infestation, canopy microclimate (temperature, relative humidity, and light intensity), fruit quality parameters (interior temperature, total soluble solids, and penetration force), and spray coverage/deposition. Trellis installation costs, labor inputs, and yield were used to further evaluate the trellis systems from an economic perspective. Fruit quality was not affected by trellising or pruning and lower total yield was observed in the experimental trellis treatment on one farm. Although D. suzukii infestation was only affected by trellising and pruning at one site, we observed a relationship between higher temperatures and reduced infestation on nearly all farms. Occasionally, lower relative humidity and high light intensity corresponded with lower infestation. Ultimately, the experimental trellis was less economically efficient than other trellising systems and our ability to successfully manipulate habitat favorability varied in a site-specific manner. Drosophila suzukii management approaches that rely upon unfavorable conditions are likely to be more effective in hot, dry regions.
Review of the diagnosis and treatment of brain metastases
Authors: Narita Yoshitaka , Sato Shinya , Kayama Takamasa
Published: November 2021

Brain metastases (BM) occur in at least 10% of cancer patients, and are one of the main causes of cancer-related deaths and significant deterioration in the quality of life of cancer patients due to the neurological deterioration caused by brain compression and tumor invasion. Whole-brain irradiation has been emphasized as the standard treatment for BM. However, recent clinical trials including the JLGK0901 and JCOG0504 trials conducted in Japan have established therapeutic evidence for the use of stereotactic radiosurgery with regular follow-up with magnetic resonance imaging for BM. In addition to surgery and stereotactic radiotherapy, advances in drug therapy for BM, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors, are expected. This review describes the history and the recent evidence of the diagnosis and treatment of BM.
Single-port laparoscopic appendectomy using a needle-type grasping forceps for selective adult patients with acute uncomplicated appendicitis
Authors: Chen Yang , Liu Yanjie , Guo Shigang , Yuan Jieqing , Li Xiaojun
Published: November 2021

Laparoscopic appendectomy has been performed by surgeons all over the world with the advantages of minimal injury. However, conventional multiple ports procedure still has room for improvement to further reduce surgical stress. We present a novel technique of single-port laparoscopic appendectomy using a needle-type grasping forceps (SLAN) for the treatment of uncomplicated appendicitis in adults, which produces just a 1 cm traumbilical incision. Fourteen adult patients underwent this technique without any complications. Many advantages were observed, including minimal surgical trauma, less pain, faster recovery and unobviousable scars. In conclusion, SLAN provides a new choice of minimal invasive procedure for surgeons to treat adult patients with acute uncomplicated appendicitis.
SRG/eROSITA view of X-ray reflection in the Central Molecular Zone: a snapshot in September–October 2019
Authors: Khabibullin Ildar , Churazov Eugene , Sunyaev Rashid
Published: November 2021

X-ray reflection off dense molecular clouds in the Galactic Centre region has established itself as a powerful probe for the past activity record of the supermassive black hole Sgr A* on a time-scale of a few hundred years. Detailed studies of the reflection signal from individual clouds allow us to estimate parameters of the brightest flare(s) and explore properties of the dense gas distribution inside and around them. On the other hand, wide-area surveys covering the full Central Molecular Zone (CMZ) are crucial to spot the brightening of the new clouds and long-term decay of the flux from the once bright ones. Here, we present and discuss the data obtained by the SRG/eROSITA telescope in the course of its commissioning observations in late 2019 in regard to the X-ray reflection off CMZ clouds located to the East of Sgr A*. We measure the hard X-ray (4–8 keV) flux from the currently brightest (in reflected emission) molecular complex, Sgr A, and derive upper limits for other molecular complexes. We confirm that the Sgr A complex keeps being bright at the level of $4\times 10^{-13}\,{\rm erg\, s^{-1}\,cm^{-2}\,arcmin^{-2}}$, making it an excellent candidate for the deep forthcoming high-resolution imaging and polarimetric observations. We also discuss distinct features of the reflected emission from the clouds for which the primary illumination front has already passed away and the signal is dominated by multiply scattered radiation.
The shell phenotypic variability of the keyhole limpetFissurella latimarginata: insights from an experimental approach using a water flow flume
Authors: Vasconcelos Joana , Caamaño Diego , Tuset Víctor M , Sousa Ricardo , Riera Rodrigo
Published: November 2021

Hydrodynamics are a major environmental factor on intertidal rocky shores. Morphological responses to this factor are expected to strongly influence spatial distribution of species across environmental gradients. We here analysed the shell phenotypic variability of the limpet Fissurella latimarginata using geometric morphometric analysis. The limpets were obtained from a sheltered intertidal coastal area and a wave-exposed environment. To determine whether the shell shape variation of the intertidal molluscs is linked to their resistance to differential intertidal wave exposure, mesocosm studies were developed in a hydraulic flume to explore the effects of hydrodynamic forces on this limpet species. A unidirectional current was used to test the impacts of step-by-step increased current flow velocities for each limpet. The phenotypic variability observed in the populations of F. latimarginata was associated with habitats characterized by contrasting wave exposure. Limpets from exposed environments showed a flattened, round to laterally wider and posteriorly narrower shell shape, larger foot and higher full limpet height, and were dislodged at higher velocities. A more laterally compressed and peaked shape was found in limpets from sheltered areas and these showed a lower resistance to wave action by dislodging at lower velocities.
Advocacy in European Civil Societies: Organizational Trade-offs Between Selective and Collective Incentive Provision
Authors: Bolleyer Nicole , Correa Patricia
Published: November 2021

Civil society organizations (CSOs) are a cornerstone of democracy in Europe. Nonetheless, “civil society” and “political society” should not be equated as membership-based organizations are not necessarily politically engaged. This paper theorizes and empirically examines which membership-based CSOs engage in interest representation through sustained advocacy activity. We propose an incentive-theoretical framework on CSO investments in advocacy activities—a collective, non-exclusive incentive from which also non-members can profit—by organizations fundamentally dependent on member support. Theorizing how CSOs' own structural characteristics, resource dependencies, and government demand for CSO input affect how CSOs reconcile selective and collective incentive provision, we test our hypotheses using new data from four recent surveys conducted in four European democracies. In line with our framework, CSOs organizing individual citizens rather than corporate actors and those pursuing member interests are less likely to engage in advocacy, while CSO professionalization and state funding access enhance CSOs’ propensities to do so. Furthermore, the analysis shows that the former structural CSO characteristics are similarly relevant for CSO advocacy across distinct country settings, while the role of resource variables is mediated by institutional context revealing an important source of inequality in democratic interest representation.
Sex-Specific Risk Factors and Health Disparity Among Hepatitis C Positive Patients Receiving Pharmacotherapy for Opioid Use Disorder: Findings From a Propensity Matched Analysis
Authors: Dennis Brittany B. , Martin Leslie J. , Naji Leen , Akhtar Daud , Cholankeril George , Kim Donghee , Sanger Nitika , Hillmer Alannah , Chawar Caroul , D’Elia Alessia , Panesar Balpreet , Worster Andrew , Marsh David C. , O’Shea Tim , Bawor Monica , Thabane Lehana , Samaan Zainab , Ahmed Aijaz
Published: November 2021

Background

The incidence of opioid-related fatality has reached unparalleled levels across North America. Patients with comorbid hepatitis C virus (HCV) remain the most vulnerable and difficult to treat. Considering the unique challenges associated with this population, we aimed to re-examine the impact of HCV on response to medication assistant treatment for opioid use disorder and establish sex-specific risk factors affecting care.

Methods

This study employs a multi-center prospective cohort design, with 1-year follow-up. Patients aged ≥18, receiving methadone for opioid use disorder were recruited from a network of outpatient opioid addiction treatment centers across Southern Ontario, Canada. Patients with ≥50% positive opioid urine screens over 1 year of follow-up were classified as poor responders. The prognostic impact of HCV on response was established using a propensity score matched analysis. Sex-specific regression models were constructed to evaluate risk factors for treatment response.

Results

Among participants eligible for inclusion (n = 1234), HCV was prevalent in 25% (n = 307). HCV patients exhibited significantly higher rates of high-risk opioid consumption patterns 35.29% (standard deviation 0.478). Sex-specific examination revealed females with HCV incur a 2 times increased risk for high-risk opioid consumption behaviors (female odds ratio: 1.95, 95% confidence interval 1.23, 3.10; P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Findings from this study establish the link between HCV and poor treatment response, with differentially higher risk among female patients. In light of the high potential for overdose among this population, concerted efforts are required for distinguishing the source for sex-based disparities, in addition to establishing trauma and gender informed treatment protocols.
What Are the Long-Term Changes to Bowel Function Patient-reported Outcomes After Elective Sigmoidectomy for Diverticular Disease?
Authors: Gray Phillip J. , Goldwag Jenaya L. , Eid Mark A. , Trooboff Spencer W. , Wilson Matthew Z. , Ivatury Srinivas J.
Published: November 2021

Objective:

To evaluate long-term changes to bowel function after elective sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease.

Background:

For patients with diverticular disease, choosing surgery is often based on the presumption of improvement in preoperative symptoms. Our group previously reported bowel function does not change in the early perioperative period; however, studies of long-term outcomes are limited.

Methods:

This is an observational study of patients that underwent elective sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease and completed the Colorectal Functional Outcome (COREFO) questionnaire before surgery. Patients were stratified into two groups based on presence or absence of a preoperative symptomatic score (i.e., total COREFO ≥ 15). Long-term bowel function (>1 year from surgery) was assessed using the COREFO questionnaire via telephone or subsequent clinic visit. Paired t-tests compared mean preoperative scores to mean long-term scores.

Results:

Fifty-one patients met inclusion criteria (21 symptomatic, 30 asymptomatic). All symptomatic patients had uncomplicated disease, whereas 90% of asymptomatic patients had complicated disease. Median time from operation to questionnaire completion was 23 months (IQR = 13–34). Asymptomatic patients demonstrated impaired bowel function, predominantly driven by changes in the social impact domain. Symptomatic patients demonstrated improved bowel function, driven by changes in the incontinence, social impact, stool-related aspects, and need for medication domains.

Conclusions:

In the long-term after elective sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease, patients with symptomatic bowel function preoperatively improve substantially, while those with asymptomatic preoperative scores demonstrate statistically significant impairment. Patients determined to be symptomatic with patient-reported outcomes likely benefit long-term from sigmoid resection.

Mini-Abstract: In this manuscript, long-term changes to patient-reported bowel function were assessed using a validated questionnaire after sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease. We found that in patients with symptomatic preoperative bowel function, long-term bowel function improved after elective resection. Alternatively, patients with asymptomatic preoperative bowel function demonstrated long-term impairment in bowel function.
Reverberation Degrades Pitch Perception but Not Mandarin Tone and Vowel Recognition of Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Xu Lei , Luo Jianfen , Xie Dianzhao , Chao Xiuhua , Wang Ruijie , Zahorik Pavel , Luo Xin
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

The primary goal of this study was to investigate the effects of reverberation on Mandarin tone and vowel recognition of cochlear implant (CI) users and normal-hearing (NH) listeners. To understand the performance of Mandarin tone recognition, this study also measured participants’ pitch perception and the availability of temporal envelope cues in reverberation.

Design:

Fifteen CI users and nine NH listeners, all Mandarin speakers, were asked to recognize Mandarin single-vowels produced in four lexical tones and rank harmonic complex tones in pitch with different reverberation times (RTs) from 0 to 1 second. Virtual acoustic techniques were used to simulate rooms with different degrees of reverberation. Vowel duration and correlation between amplitude envelope and fundamental frequency (F0) contour were analyzed for different tones as a function of the RT.

Results:

Vowel durations of different tones significantly increased with longer RTs. Amplitude-F0 correlation remained similar for the falling Tone 4 but greatly decreased for the other tones in reverberation. NH listeners had robust pitch-ranking, tone recognition, and vowel recognition performance as the RT increased. Reverberation significantly degraded CI users’ pitch-ranking thresholds but did not significantly affect the overall scores of tone and vowel recognition with CIs. Detailed analyses of tone confusion matrices showed that CI users reduced the flat Tone-1 responses but increased the falling Tone-4 responses in reverberation, possibly due to the falling amplitude envelope of late reflections after the original vowel segment. CI users’ tone recognition scores were not correlated with their pitch-ranking thresholds.

Conclusions:

NH listeners can reliably recognize Mandarin tones in reverberation using salient pitch cues from spectral and temporal fine structures. However, CI users have poorer pitch perception using F0-related amplitude modulations that are reduced in reverberation. Reverberation distorts speech amplitude envelopes, which affect the distribution of tone responses but not the accuracy of tone recognition with CIs. Recognition of vowels with stationary formant trajectories is not affected by reverberation for both NH listeners and CI users, regardless of the available spectral resolution. Future studies should test how the relatively stable vowel and tone recognition may contribute to sentence recognition in reverberation of Mandarin-speaking CI users.
Comparison of Patient-Reported Outcomes After Suprapatellar Versus Infrapatellar Nailing Techniques for Tibial Shaft Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Sepehri Aresh , You Daniel , Lobo Akshay A. , Schneider Prism , Lefaivre Kelly A. , Guy Pierre
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

To compare patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) between patients who underwent intramedullary nail (IMN) fixation for tibial shaft fractures using an infrapatellar (IP) or the newer suprapatellar (SP) approach. Secondary outcomes included fluoroscopic radiation exposure, operative time, and radiographic outcomes.

Data Sources:

A systematic literature search of the databases Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials Study Selection.

Study Selection:

Level I to III studies in which patients over the age of 18 years with acute tibial shaft fractures who underwent tibial IMN fixation using an IP or SP approach for fracture fixation were assessed for inclusion. Studies with a minimum of 10 patients in each cohort that reported on postoperative patient-reported outcomes with at least 6 months of follow-up were included for analysis.

Data Extraction and Synthesis:

Twelve studies that reported PROMs and compared IP and SP intramedullary nailing of tibial shaft fractures were analyzed. This included 654 patients who underwent IP IMN fixation and 542 patients who underwent SP IMN fixation. A random-effects model for unadjusted/crude study estimates were pooled using inverse variance (IV) weighting for continuous variable analysis.

Conclusions:

This review found a significant improvement in PROM for patients with tibial shaft fractures when the SP IMN technique was used. In addition, there was a significant decrease in intraoperative fluoroscopy time consistent with other radiographic findings demonstrating improved start point accuracy and reduction with SP IMN fixation of tibial shaft fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Age-related Outcomes and Complications of Osteodistraction in the Pediatric Upper Extremity: A Large Retrospective Single-center Study of 61 Cases
Authors: Scheider Philipp , Ganger Rudolf , Farr Sebastian
Published: November 2021

Background:

The study purpose was to assess: (1) the complication rate of osteodistraction in the pediatric upper extremity, its severity and relation to patient-specific and treatment-specific parameters, and (2) dedicated patient-reported outcome scores after these procedures.

Methods:

This retrospective study analyzed a chart of patients undergoing osteodistraction of the upper limb between 2003 and 2020. Demographics, distraction-specific parameters, healing index, and any complications graded according to the Sink grading scale (grades 1 to 5) were extracted. An additional phone interview was performed to assess patient satisfaction and functionality of the elongated limb using the Quick-DASH (Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) score.

Results:

This study included 61 cases from 48 individual patients. The mean age at the start of distraction was 11.5±3.6 years. The ulna was the most frequently lengthened bone, with 21 (34.4%) cases. Ninety-four complications were observed, with an average complication rate of 77.0%. Based on the Sink grading scale (1 to 5), grade 3 complications were most common (n=29; 47.5%) followed by grade 1 (n=14; 23.0%), 2 (n=14; 23.0%), and 4 (n=4; 6.6%). A significantly lower and thus better bone healing index was observed for the age category less than 10 years compared with the 14 to 18 years group (P=0.006). The average satisfaction was 4.2±1.0 points of 5. The mean Quick-DASH score was 14.1±12.5, indicating very good clinical outcomes.

Conclusions:

Despite the occurrence of numerous complications, high patient satisfaction and good daily life functionality of the treated limb was observed. An age of more than 14 years at the beginning of therapy had a negative prognostic effect on bone healing during distraction. Thus, osteodistraction in the upper extremity may preferably be performed less than 10 years of age because of enhanced bone regeneration.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—retrospective case series.