bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First report of detection of microcystins in farmed Mediterranean mussels Mytilus galloprovincialisin Thermaikos gulf-Greece, using ELISA and liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Kalaitzidou Maria , Nannou Christina , Lambropoulou Dinitra , Papageorgiou Konstantinos , Theodoridis Alexandros , Economou Vangelis , Giantsis Ioannis , Aggelidis Panagiotis , Kritas Spyridon , Petridou Evanthia
Published: February 2021

Background
Microcystins are emerging marine biotoxins, produced by potentially toxic cyanobacteria. Their presence has been reported in aquatic animals in Greek internal waters, while data are few in marine environments. Since the climate change induce eutrophication and harmful algal blooms in coastal marine ecosystems affecting the public health, further research on microcystins’ presence in marine waters is required. The aim of this study was to detect the potential presence of microcystins in mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis in the largest farming areas in Thermaikos gulf, in Northern Greece, and to investigate their temporal and spatial distribution, adding to the knowledge of microcystins presence in Greek Mediterranean mussels.
Results
A three years microcystins’ assessment was conducted from 2013 to 2016, in farmed Mediterranean mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis, in five sampling areas in Thermaikos gulf, in northern Greece, where the 90% of mussels’ farming activities is located. The isolation of potentially toxic cyanobacteria was confirmed by molecular methods. An initial screening was performed with a qualitative and quantitative direct monoclonal (DM) ELISA and results above 1ng/g were confirmed for the occurrence of the most common microcystins -RR, -LR and -YR, by Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with a high- resolution mass spectrometer (HRMS) (Orbitrap analyzer). Microcystin -RR and microcystin -LR were detected, while the intensity of microcystin-YR was below the method detection limit. Most samples that exhibited concentrations above 1ng/g were detected during the warm seasons of the year and especially in Spring. Results indicated an overestimation of the ELISA method, since concentrations ranged between 0.70 ± 0.15 ng/g and 53.90 ± 3.18 ng/g, while the confirmation declared that the levels of microcystins were 6 to 22 times lower.
Conclusions
Microcystin RR and microcystin LR were detected for the first time in mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis, harvested from farms in Thermaikos gulf, in Central Macedonia, in Greece. Their presence was linked to potentially toxic cyanobacteria. Bioaccumulation in digestive gland was observed, while the concentrations in muscles were found extremely low. Samples with levels above 1ng/g were observed mostly during spring, confirming the seasonal distribution of microcystins. The comparison of the results by the ELISA and the LC-Orbitrap MS method indicated an overestimation of concentration by the ELISA method.
Clinical Performance and Exercise Hemodynamics in Patients with Severe Secondary Tricuspid Regurgitation and Chronic Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Jensen Jesper , Clemmensen Tor , Frederiksen Christian , Schofer Joachim , Andersen Mads , Poulsen Steen
Published: February 2021

ObjectiveThe study aimed to investigate the functional capacity and hemodynamics at rest and during exercise in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation and severe functional symptomatic tricuspid regurgitation (AF-FTR).BackgroundSymptoms and clinical performance of severe AF-FTR mimic the population of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Severe AF-FTR is known to be associated with an adverse prognosis whereas less is reported about the clinical performance including exercise capacity and hemodynamics in patients symptomatic AF-FTR. MethodsRight heart catheterization (RHC) at rest and during exercise was conducted in a group of patients with stable chronic AF-TR and compared with a group of patients with HFpEF diagnosed with cardiac amyloid cardiomyopathy (CA). All patients had preserved ejection fraction and no significant left-sided disease. ResultsPatients with AF-FTR demonstrated a low exercise capacity that was comparable to CA patients (TR 4.9 ± 1.2 METS vs. CA 4. 7 ± 1.5 METS; P = 0.78) with an average peak maximal oxygen consumption of 15 mL/min/kg. Right atrium pressure increased significantly more in the AF-FTR patients as compared to CA patients at peak exercise (25 ± 8 vs 19 ± 9, p<0.01) whereas PCWP increased significantly to a similar extent in both groups (31 ± 4 vs 31 ± 8 mmHg, p=0.88). Cardiac output (CO) was significantly lower among AF-FTR at rest as compared to CA patients (3.6 ± 0.9 vs 4.4 ± 1.3 l/min; p<0.05) whereas both groups demonstrated a poor but comparable CO reserve at peak exercise (7.3 ± 2.9 vs 7.9 ± 3.8 l/min, p=0.59). ConclusionsAF-FTR contributes to the development of advanced heart failure symptoms and poor exercise capacity reflected in increased atrial filling pressures, reduced cardiac output at rest and during exercise sharing common features seen in HFpEF patients with other etiologies.
Chemotherapy plus atezolizumab for a patient with small cell lung cancer undergoing hemodialysis: A short report
Authors: Imaji Mihoko , Fujimoto Daichi , Kato Mai , Tanaka Masanori , Furuta Katsuyuki , Yamamoto Nobuyuki
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe addition of the programmed death-ligand 1 inhibitor atezolizumab to the carboplatin and etoposide combination is the standard first-line treatment for patients with previously untreated extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). However, there is little information about its safety in an increasing number of cancer patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). Case presentationAn 80-year-old male received carboplatin (AUC = 5 125 mg/body on day 1), etoposide (40 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3), and atezolizumab (1200 mg/body on day 1) as the first-line therapy for ES-SCLC. He was undergoing HD thrice a week for 7 years owing to chronic renal failure. HD was provided 16 hours after carboplatin administration. During the first cycle, grade 4 neutropenia (neutrophil count: 74 /μL) and leukopenia (white blood cell count: 680 /μL) occurred. Therefore, the chemotherapy was performed with a reduced dose of carboplatin (AUC = 4 100 mg/body) and etoposide (30 mg/m2) from the second to fourth cycles. After 4 cycles, the patient did not develop any severe non-hematologic adverse events, showing a remarkable response. ConclusionWe conclude that the carboplatin, etoposide, and atezolizumab combination can be safely administered to cancer patients undergoing HD.
Primary Lymphoepithelioma-like Carcinoma of the Lung in Singapore—A Rare Malignancy
Authors: D`Souza Jason , Tai Dessmon YH , Samol Jens , Goh Soon Keng , Kor Ai Ching , Zee Ying Kiat , Chan Daniel , Su Jan Wen , Ong Kian Chung , Verma Akash
Published: February 2021

Background: Primary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC) of the lung is a rare histological type of lung cancer with a relatively better prognosis. It is common in Chinese population, is associated with Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), and has morphological similarities to nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Methods: We retrospectively analysed medical records of patients with LELC at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore from November 2010 to January 2016 and evaluated baseline characteristics, staging, therapeutic interventions and survival. Results: Ten patients were diagnosed with pulmonary LELC, all were Chinese. The median age (range) at diagnosis was 62 (42-88) years, with a female preponderance ratio of 4:1. All had Epstein-Barr virus encoded small non-polyadenylated ribonucleic acid positive status. Six (60%) patients had stage IV, 3 (30%) stage IIIA, and 1 (10%) stage IIA disease. The median overall survival was 24.2 (4.7-59.4) months; in stage II, IIIA, and IV it was 27.6, 20.7 (19.8-48.9), and 26.6 (4.7-59.4) months respectively. The 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rate was 90%, 50%, 30%, and 10% in the whole group, but 100%, 43%, 28.6%, and 14.3% in 7 patients who received chemotherapy. Gemcitabine/carboplatin was the most commonly used 1st line chemotherapy. Conclusion: LELC is associated with Chinese ethnicity, younger age of onset, EBV, lack of smoking, advanced stage, and better prognosis than other subtypes of lung cancers. For improving outcomes, future efforts should focus on increased awareness, early diagnosis, development of an ASEAN registry and international collaboration. Options such as EBV-directed adopted immunotherapy or the role of EBV vaccine also merit evaluation.
Vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 variants: how much containment is still needed? A quantitative assessment.
Authors: Giordano Giulia , Colaneri Marta , Filippo Alessandro Di , Blanchini Franco , Bolzern Paolo , De Nicolao Giuseppe , Sacchi Paolo , Bruno Raffaele , Colaneri Patrizio
Published: February 2021

Despite the progress in medical care, combined population-wide interventions (such as physical distancing, testing and contact tracing) are still crucial to manage the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, aggravated by the emergence of new highly transmissible variants. We combine the compartmental SIDARTHE model, predicting the course of COVID-19 infections, with a new data-based model that projects new cases onto casualties and healthcare system costs. Based on the Italian case study, we outline several scenarios: mass vaccination campaigns with different paces, different transmission rates due to new variants, and different enforced countermeasures, including the alternation of opening and closure phases. Our results demonstrate that non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) have a higher impact on the epidemic evolution than vaccination, which advocates for the need to keep containment measures in place throughout the vaccination campaign. We also show that, if intermittent open-close strategies are adopted, deaths and healthcare system costs can be drastically reduced, without any aggravation of socioeconomic losses, as long as one has the foresight to start with a closing phase rather than an opening one.
Probablistic Modelling and Identifying Fluctuations in Annual Extreme Heatwave Regimes of Karachi
Authors: Rizvi Shahnilla , Iqbal Muhammad Jawed , Ali Muhammad
Published: February 2021

Climatic warming in the global mean has significantly increased the probability of occurrence of heat extremes on time scales ranging from months to seasons. As extreme heat events are most likely to become intense and frequent over the next decades, thus it’s important to examine these events to mitigate its negative impacts on public health and society. This study focuses on Karachi heat extremes over the last 23 years. The power spectral analyses of Karachi heat extremes records have been carried out by considering two indices: Heat Index (HI) and Effective Temperature Index (TEE), which are also found to be significantly correlated. The result indicates a regular cyclic pattern of 4.5 years which is estimated to face a heat index of more than 73.63\(℃\), associated with the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Other peaks are observed at 2.8 and 2.2 years with the expected value of the Karachi heat index of 70.53\(℃\) and 68.71\(℃,\) respectively. The probabilistic approach is also used to predict the future heatwave events of Karachi. Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) distribution is found to be the best-fitted probability distribution for the extreme heatwave events on the basis of goodness of fit test. Furthermore, the estimation of the return period of the heatwave event reveals that Karachi will be facing a maximum heat index of 84.37\(℃\) or more in the coming 33 years, which suggests an urgent need for mitigation strategies in Karachi to overcome the effects of extreme heatwave events.
The Influence on Airflow Characteristics In Upper Airway In Sleep Apnea Hypopnea By The Disturbance of Pharyngeal Muscle Group Based on High Simulation of The Wall Flow Field
Authors: HUANG Xinyan , PENG Fan , SUN Liren , BI Jie , CHEN Jue , ZHANG Ting , CHEN Huanhuan , WU Liangzhen
Published: February 2021

Background: To observe the influence on morphology and internal airflow characteristics in upper airway in sleep apnea hypopnea by the disturbance of pharyngeal muscle group based on high simulation of the wall flow field. Methods: One goat for experimental purpose bought by our hospital in December 2018 was included as the research object. This experimental goat received injection of hardener and submucosal injection edema into pharyngeal muscle group of upper respiratory tract. The goat received CT scan before and after injection. Computational fluid dynamics(CFD) model was built on the base of CT scans by 3Dslicer 4.5 and MeshLab and ANSYS ICEM CFD 14.0. The internal flow of upper respiratory tract was simulated by ANSYS-FLUENT 14.0 and the results were analyzed by ANSYS-CFD-POST 14.0. Results: Soft palate and uvula were elongated and thickened and pharyngeal muscle group was disturbed after injection of hardener and submucosal injection edema into the goat. The area that changed the most of upper airway was located in the lower bound of pharyngopalatiae, and it reduced area from 0.3602cm2 to 0.1699cm2; the air velocity was elevated from 3.53009m/s to 7.24478m/s, the negative pressure was elevated from -28.6184 Pa to -66.4510 Pa, while the resistance of cavum pharyngis elevated from 3396.09Pas/L to 3813.65Pas/L. Conclusion: Injection of hardener and submucosal injection edema into pharyngeal muscle group of the goat would result in the disturbance of pharyngeal muscle group, narrow the upper respiratory tract, elevate the negative pressure and resistance of the upper respiratory tract in this area, bring about the collapsibility of the upper airway, obstruct the patency of the airflow and form the pathological model of OSAHS at last.
C and N Pools In Afforested Pine Forests and Natural Shrublands 
Authors: Marco Anna De , Panico Speranza Claudia , memoli valeria , Santorufo Lucia , Zarrelli Armando , Barile Rossella , Maisto Giulia
Published: February 2021

AimsPlant cover and microclimatic conditions can profoundly alter the balance between productivity and decay, with relevant effects on soil C and N pools. In this contest, the aim of the present study was to assess how, in Mediterranean areas, soil properties and C and N sequestration differs between afforested pine forests and natural shrublands in different microclimatic conditions at low and high elevations.MethodsThe study was performed along the soil profile distinguishing between the organic layers, fermentation and humic layers, and surface mineral soils. The comparison between plant covers and elevations were carried out for C and N pools and soluble fractions, molecular characterization by solid state 13C NMR of organic layers and by 1HNMR of soil soluble fractions, potential mineralization rates and microbial and fungal amounts.ResultsOur data confirm that coniferous tree species sequester C faster than shrubs and herbaceous species especially at low elevation under favourable microclimatic conditions. Soil C and N pools reflect changes in the chemical composition of the upper organic layers and of soil soluble organic matter. In pine forests, the higher concentration of N in the upper organic layer speeds up the N loss in the fermentative layer and stimulates humus formation and C accumulation at low elevations.ConclusionsPlant cover and microclimatic conditions drive the C sequestration rate and the soil organic matter stability. Chemical changes highlighted by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy can clarify patterns of decay processes and help to make predictions in a climate change scenario.
On the simulation of northeast monsoon rainfall over southern peninsular India in CMIP5 models
Authors: pp sreekala , Babu C.A. , Rao S.VijayaBhaskara
Published: February 2021

The skill of 34 CMIP5 models to simulate the mean state and interannual variability of Northeast Monsoon Rainfall (NEMR) is studied here. The mean (1979–2005) NEMR over southern Peninsular India (SPIRF), Indian Ocean and Maritime continents (10°S-30°N,40°E-120°E) is simulated reasonably well by CMIP5 models with pattern correlation ranges from 0.6 to 0.93. A few individual models have been found to be outperformed the multi model ensemble (PCC-0.88). Diverse behaviour in the simulation of Indian and Pacific Ocean SST is observed in the CMIP5 models. A set of models (high skill models: HSM), which shows an NIOD like mean (1979–2005) SST bias in Indian Ocean and strong La Nina like mean SST bias in the Pacific Ocean, are able to simulate the mean NEMR more realistically. Another set of models (low skill models: LSM) which shows a Positive IOD (PIOD) like mean SST bias in the Indian Ocean and a weak La Nina like mean SST bias in the Pacific Ocean are not able to simulate the observed equatorial Indian Ocean westerlies. This leads to an abnormal ascending motion and unrealistic wet bias over the western Indian Ocean and dry bias over the southern Peninsular India, southeast Asia and southeast Indian Ocean. Observational analysis reveals that the ascending anomalies over warm pool in the climatological mean Walker circulation during NEM season is modified as ascending anomalies to the east and west of warm pool region and descending anomalies over warm pool region during El Nino and PIOD. This modulation is manifested as an interesting pattern of warm and wet western Indian Ocean, southern Peninsular India and central and eastern Pacific Ocean and cool and dry warm pool region including Maritime continents.The observation analysis also reveals that the establishment of South China Sea anticyclone and Bay of Bengal anticyclone during El Nino and PIOD are strongly related with the ascending motion over south peninsular India and hence enhances the south Peninsular Indian rainfall during NEM season. Around 70% of the CMIP5 models were not able to capture the observed positive correlation that exist between SPIRF and Nino3.4 SST as well as SPIRF and DMI. An unrealistic westward extension of warm anomalies over the equatorial Pacific cold tongue is observed in low skill models (LSM-IAV). Unrealistic westward extension of South China Sea anticyclone and Bay of Bengal anticyclone (up to 70°E) is also observed in the LSM-IAV model ensemble. This is manifested as the abnormal descending anomalies and unrealistic dry bias over the southern Peninsular India and hence the unrealistic negative CC between SPIRF and Nino 3.4 SST (SPIRF-DMI). The descending anomalies over South China Sea and ascending anomalies over the western Indian Ocean and southern Peninsular India (50°E-80°E) is well captured but with lower intensity in HSM-IAV and hence it shows the observed positive CC between SPIRF and Nino3.4 SST as well as SPIRF and DMI.
Recent grain production boom in Russia in historical context
Authors: Dronin Nikolai , Kirilenko Andrei
Published: February 2021

In recent years, Russia has established herself as the leading supplier of grain worldwide and continues to make ambitious plans for raising its grain production in the long-term. Within the context of Russian agricultural history, the recent high growth of grain production is exceptional. This growth however is not fully replicated by the “weather-yield” crop models, which project only moderate yield increase in the 21st century and fail to predict the most recent record growth in grain yields. The difference between the projected climate-dependent yields and observations is especially high in two of the most important agricultural regions, Central Black Earth and Northern Caucasus, while the rest of the agricultural zone is shows good agreement with the regression models. Similar differences were observed in the late 1960s, which we interpret in terms of the fast changes in agricultural technology during the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR) agricultural reforms followed by periods of reversal. We also interpret the current period of high differentiation between weather-yield model results and collected yield as evidence of a higher than usual contribution of agricultural reforms in yield improvements, which, however, are primarily benefiting the large-scale producers located in the most productive areas of Russia.
Energy Storage Capacity and Electrocaloric Effect on Sn Modified Barium Titanium Oxide (BaTi0.8Sn0.2O3)
Authors: MALLICK JYOTIREKHA , Pradhan Lagen Kumar , Manglam Murli Kumar , Kar Manoranjan
Published: February 2021

Modified Barium Titanium Oxide ( BaTi 0.8 Sn 0.2 O 3 ) was prepared by using the solid-state reaction method. The crystal structure, energy storage behavior, and electrocaloric properties were studied. The phase purity and structural analysis were investigated using the X-ray diffraction technique and the Rietveld refinement of XRD pattern. The microstructure of the sample was recorded by using the Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The temperature variation dielectric property shows that the ceramic exhibits diffuse phase transition behaviour. The ferroelectric nature in BaTi 0.8 Sn 0.2 O 3 has been depicted from P-E loops analysis. The energy storage behaviour and electrocaloric properties were estimated from the temperature variation P-E loops at 40kV/cm. The electrocaloric effect was studied by an indirect method using Maxwell relation, and the electrocaloric value has been estimated to with 94% of energy storage efficiency.
Prevalence of Transmitted HIV-1 Drug Resistance Among Treatment-naive Individuals in China, 2000-2016
Authors: Yuan Huangbo , Liu Zhenqiu , Wu Xuefu , Wu Mingshan , Fang Qiwen , Zhang Xin , Shi Tingting , Tully Damien C , Zhang Tiejun
Published: February 2021

HIV with transmitted drug-resistance (TDR) limits the therapeutic options available for treatment-naive HIV patients. This study aimed to further our understanding of the prevalence and transmission characteristics of HIV with TDR for the application of first-line antiretroviral regimens. A total of 6578 HIV-1 protease/reverse-transcriptase sequences from treatment-naive individuals in China between 2000 and 2016, were obtained from the Los Alamos HIV Sequence Database and were analyzed for TDR. Transmission networks were constructed to determine genetic relationships. The spreading routes of large TDR clusters were identified using a Bayesian phylogeographic framework. TDR mutations were detected in 274 (4.51%) individuals, with 1.40% harboring TDR to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, 1.52% to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, and 1.87% to protease inhibitors. The most frequent mutation was M46L (58, 0.89%), followed by K103N (36, 0.55%), M46I (36, 0.55%), and M184V (26, 0.40%). The prevalence of total TDR initially decreased between 2000 and 2010 (OR = 0.83, 95% CI 0.73–0.95), and then increased thereafter (OR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.13–1.97). The proportion of sequences in a cluster (clustering rate) among HIV with TDR sequences was lower than that of sequences without TDR (40.5% vs. 48.8%, P = 0.023) and increased from 27.3% in 2005–2006 to 63.6% in 2015–2016 (P < 0.001). While most TDR mutations were associated with reduced relative transmission fitness, mutation M46I was associated with higher relative transmission fitness than the wild-type strain. This study identified a low-level prevalence of TDR HIV in China during the last two decades. However, the increasing TDR HIV rate sicn 2010, the persistent circulation of drug resistance mutations, and the expansion of self-sustaining drug resistance reservoirs may compromise the efficacy of antiretroviral therapy programs.
Factors Affecting Survival in Operated Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Akgul Nida , sakin abdullah , Sahin Suleyman , Aldemir Mehmet Naci , Aytekin Aydin , ALAY Murat , Iliklerden Umit Haluk , Kotan Mehmet Cetin
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is an extremely fatal and relatively rare gastrointestinal system malignancy. This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting survival in operated patients with ESCC.Materials and Methods: We included 110 patients (38 [34.5%] male; 72 [65.5%] female) aged ≥18 (median age, 54 [26–77]) years who were operated without any signs of metastases and followed up at Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Dursun Odabaşı Medical Center between 2004 and 2019.Results: Initially, 39 (35.5%) patients were clinical lymph node-positive and 71 (64.5%) patients were negative. Thirty-five (31.8%) patients underwent surgery after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) and 75 (%68.2) patients underwent direct surgery without nCRT. Five-year overall survival (OS) was 84.4% and 59.2% in patients who underwent surgery after nCRT and in those who underwent direct surgery, respectively. Median OS was significantly longer in patients who underwent surgery after nCRT (p=0.003). There was a statistically significant difference in OS in patients who underwent surgery after nCRT depending on tumor response (p=0.04). In multivariate analysis, advanced pathologic stage (p=0.002) adversely affected survival, whereas nCRT administration (p=0.031) positively affected OS.Conclusion: We suggest that nCRT should be administrated before surgery, especially in locally advanced ESCCs. In addition, we believe that nCRT response can be used as a good parameter for survival. These results, however, should be supported by prospective studies.
Design and Fabrication of Pt Free FeNi2S4/rGO  Hybrid Composite Thin Films Counter Electrode for High Performance Dye Sensitized Solar Cells 
Authors: Sankar G , Anbarasu P , Mahendran R , Sambath K , Prammapriya K
Published: February 2021

In this report, for the first time synthesized FeNi2S4/rGO composite as Pt free counter electrode (CE) by facile hydrothermal method without employing template or surfactant. Complete investigations of phase evolutions by XRD patterns and TEM indicate that spinel structure with nanosheets and nanospherical morphologies. The individual spherical shaped nanoparticles (30-35 nm) of FeNi2S4 were exploited on the 2D ultrathin rGO nanosheets surface. This is useful for the provision of further electrolyte adsorptions and responsive electrocatalytic sites. The DSSC constructed with FeNi2S4/rGO hybrid composite CE showed a conversion efficiency of 9.98%, better than that by FeNi2S4 CE (4.87%) and also commercial Pt (6.21%). The outstanding efficiency of the FeNi2S4/rGO hybrid composite CE even better than commercial Pt is effective alternative to Pt CE in the DSSCs.
A Series of Pure Ankle Dislocations without Associated Fracture: Our Clinical Experience
Authors: Gan Tingjiang , Li Yaxing , Deng Wei , Qin Boquan , Liu Xi , Zhang Hui
Published: February 2021

Background: Pure ankle dislocation without associated fracture is extremely rare, thus the literature almost limited to case reports and small case series. The standardized treatment protocol is in controversy and the studies of mechanism and outcome of the injury are still deficient. We report a series of eight cases of pure tibiotalar dislocations managed with emergency reduction and other heterogenic procedures, hoping to add some material to the published data on this topic and present our clinical experience.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the eight cases of isolated ankle dislocations without associated fracture that were treated in our department from 2015 to 2019. Results: The eight cases were all posteromedial dislocations with six open and two closed. Emergency reduction was performed for all patients followed by average 6 weeks’ immobilization with external fixators in five and short leg cast in three. The mean follow-up period was 33 (range, 12 to 61) months. None of the eight patients showed obvious instability though only one patient underwent ligaments repair. The average range of motion (ROM) loss of the ankles was 10 degrees for plantarflexion and 3 degrees for dorsiflexion. Two patients complained of moderate stiffness and three complained of persistent mild pain in whom degenerative change was found. Neurovascular sequela was presented in one patient with numbness. Only one patient developed superficial infection. The average AOFAS score was 90 (range, 78 to 100) points at the final follow-up with five ankles rated as excellent and three rated as good. All of the eight patients returned to their prior daily life and the two closed patients with sports injuries resumed sports activity.Conclusion: Pure ankle dislocation is a rare ligamentous ankle injury with complicated mechanism. Most of the injuries treated with emergency reduction and thorough debridement followed by a short period of immobilization and functional rehabilitation have good clinical outcomes. Ligaments repair should only be considered in cases of chronic ankle instability after failed conservative treatment.
Ventricle Contact Is Associated With Higher 11C Methionine PET Uptake in Glioblastoma
Authors: Dijken Bart Roelf Jan van , Schuuring Bram , Jeltema Hanne-Rinck , Laar Peter Jan van , Enting Roelien H , Dierckx Rudi A.J.O. , Stormezand Gilles N. , Hoorn Anouk van der
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Ventricle contact is associated with a worse prognosis and more aggressive tumor characteristics in glioblastoma (GBM). This is hypothesized to be a result of neural stem cells located around the lateral ventricles, in the subventricular zone. 11C methionine Positron Emission Tomography (metPET) is an indicator for increased proliferation, as it shows uptake of methionine, an amino acid needed for protein synthesis. This study is the first to study metPET characteristics of GBM in relation to ventricle contact. Methods: 12 patients with IDH wild type GBM a were included. Using MRI, the following regions were determined: primary tumor (defined as contrast enhancing lesion on T1) and peritumoral edema (defined as edema visible on FLAIR excluding the enhancement). PET parameters in these areas were extracted using PET fused with MRI imaging. Parameters extracted from the PET included: maximum and mean tumor-to-normal ratio (TNRmax and TNRmean) and metabolic tumor volume (MTV). Results: TNRmean of the primary tumor showed significantly higher values for the ventricle contacting group compared to the non-contacting group (4.44 vs 2.67, p=0.015). Other metPET parameters suggested higher values for the ventricle contacting group, but these differences did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: GBM with ventricle contact show a higher methionine uptake and thus increased proliferation compared with GBM without ventricle contact. This might explain survival differences and should be considered in treatment decisions.
An interdisciplinary exploration of responsible algorithm design in the era of distributed energy resources
Authors: Ransan-Cooper Hedda , Sturmberg Björn , Shaw Marnie , Blackhall Lachlan
Published: February 2021

While the governance of algorithms is of growing societal concern, the energy sector has been slow to engage with this issue. We argue that there are at least three systemic concerns to the design and operation of algorithms in the new, digital energy era. Namely, reliance on algorithms can bias considerations towards the easily quantifiable, that they can inhibit explainability, transparency and trust, and that they could undermine energy users’ autonomy and control. We examine these tensions through an interdisciplinary study that reveals the diversity and materiality of algorithms. Our study focuses on neighbourhood-scale batteries (NSBs) in Australia as a case study of new energy algorithms. We conducted qualitative research with energy sector professionals and citizens to understand the range of perceived benefits and risks of NSBs and the algorithms that drive their behaviour. Issues raised by stakeholders were integrated into our development of multiple NSB optimisation algorithms, whose impacts on NSB owners and customers we quantified through techno-economic modelling. Our results show the allocation of benefits and risks vary considerably between different algorithm designs. This insight a need to improve energy algorithm governance, enabling accountability and responsiveness across the design and use of algorithms so that the digitisation of energy technology does not lead to adverse public outcomes. Taken together, our study underscores the importance for researchers and developers of new algorithms to take a holistic view of stakeholders and public benefit, and demonstrates one method to practice responsible algorithm design.
Rare malbranchea-like fungal isolates from clinical specimens in United States of America.
Authors: Rodríguez-Andrade Ernesto , Cano-Lira Jose F. , Wiederhold Nathan , Perez-Cantero Alba , Guarro Josep , Stchigel Alberto M.
Published: February 2021

The fungi of the order Onygenales can cause important human infections; however, their taxonomy and worldwide occurrence is still little known. We have studied and identified a representative number of clinical fungi belonging to that order from a reference laboratory in the USA. A total of twenty-two strains isolated from respiratory tract (40 %) and human skin and nails (27.2 %) showed a malbranchea-like morphology. Six genera were phenotypically and molecularly identified, i.e. Auxarthron/Malbranchea (68.2 %), Arachnomyces (9.1 %), Spiromastigoides (9.1 %), and Currahmyces (4.5 %), and two newly proposed genera (4.5 % each). Based on the results of the phylogenetic study, we synonymysed Auxarthron to Malbranchea, and erected two new genera: Pseudoarthropsis and Pseudomalbranchea. New species are proposed: Arachnomyces bostrychodes, A. graciliformis, Currahmyces sparsispora, Malbranchea gymnoascoidea, M. multiseptata, M. stricta, Pseudoarthropsis crassispora, Pseudomalbranchea gemmata and Spiromastigoides geomyces, along with a new combination for Malbranchea gypsea. The echinocandins showed the highest in vitro antifungal activity against the studied isolates, followed by terbinafine and posaconazole; in contrast, amphotericin B, fluconazole, itraconazole and 5-fluorocytosine were less active or lacked in vitro activity against these fungi.
Geometrical Tunability and Local Electric Field Distribution of Gold-dielectric-silver three-layered Cylindrical Nanotube
Authors: Ma Ye-Wan , Wu Zhao-Wang , Li Juan , Jiang Yan-Yan , Yin Xun-Chang , Yi Ming-Fang , Zhang Li-Hua
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the effects of inner core radius, shell thickness, the dielectric function of middle nanoshell and surrounding medium on localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of gold-dielectric-silver nanotube are studied based on the quasi-static approximation. Theoretical calculation results show that LSPR of gold-dielectric-silver nanotube and LSPR numbers can be well optimized by tuning the geometrical parameters. The longer wavelength of |ω−⟩ mode takes place a distinct red-shift with an increase in the inner core radius and the thickness of middle dielectric layer, while a blue-shift with increasing outer shell thickness. The physical mechanisms are investigated based on induced charges, plasmon hybridization theory and phase retardation. In addition, the effect of middle dielectric function and surrounding medium on LSPR , the local electric field distribution are also reported. Our study provides a way to analyze and broaden the applications of gold-dielectric-silver nanotube.
The Efficacy and Safety of Two Low-Dose Peri-Operative Dexamethasone in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Single-Center Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li fulin , yin dong , Huang yu , Huang Xiao , Huang Wenwen
Published: February 2021

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of two low-dose dexamethasone in the perioperative period of total hip arthroplasty (THA) with a single-center randomized controlled trial.Method 98 patients who underwent THA received two low-dose (10 mg) IV-dexamethasone (group dexa) or IV- isotonic saline group (The placebo).The post-operative day 24 h,48 h,72 h c reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6(IL-6), the pain VAS scores at rest and mobilization, the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), nausea VAS score, postoperative fatigue rating and analgesia and antiemetic, the postoperative lengh of stay (PLOS), wound problems and complications were recorded and compared.Results The inflammatory markers (CRP, IL - 6) level postoperative 24,48,72 hours in dexa group of was lower than the placebo group (P<0.05).The 24 hours of rest and dynamic pain VAS score in dexa group was lower than those in blank group (P<0.05).The incidence of PONV, nausea VAS score, fatigue ICFS score in dexa group was lower than the blank group (P<0.05) and the dosage of analgesic and antiemetic were decreased significantly (P<0.05).In addition, the PLOS of dexa group was shorter than the blank group (P< 0.05).There was no significant difference in perioperative complications between the two groups (P> 0.05).Conclusion The application of two low-dose dexamethasone in the perioperative period of THA can effectively reduce the postoperative CRP and IL-6 levels, reduce pain, nausea, postoperative fatigue and the use of opioid analgesics, shorten the PLOS, without increasing the risk of incision infection or gastrointestinal hemorrhage.
Combined Serum and Synovial C-Reactive Protein Tests: An Economical and Efficient Adjunct to the Diagnosis of Chronic Prosthetic Joint Infection
Authors: Wang Hai , Qin Leilei , Wang Jiawei , Hu Ning , Huang Wei
Published: February 2021

Background Diagnosis of Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is very complex and challenging, especially for chronic PJI. The value of C-reactive protein (CRP) in infectious diseases has been recognized, but the diagnostic value of CRP in chronic PJI is unknown. Our objective was to investigate the effectiveness of synovial CRP in chronic PJI and to determine the optimal combination of serum and synovial CRP in distinguishing chronic PJI from aseptic failure after knee and hip arthroplasties. Methods From January 2018 to December 2019, we prospectively included patients scheduled to have a revision surgery for chronic PJI or aseptic loosening of an implant, in which synovial CRP was additionally measured along with routine preoperative diagnostic serum and synovial biomarkers. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUC) were analyzed for each biomarker to determine diagnostic efficacy. Results There were no statistically significant differences in demographic data among the 97 cases we eventually included. the synovial CRP levels were significantly higher in the infection group than in the aseptic group (median: 19 mg/l vs. 9.25 mg/l; p = .001). The optimal cut-off value for detecting chronic PJI of synovial CRP was of 7.26 mg/l with a sensitivity of 84.62%, a specificity of 93.10%. The combined model I (Serum CRP > 10.2 mg/l OR SF CRP > 7.2 6 mg/l) had a negative predictive value (NPV) of 96.67%, and a sensitivity of 97.44%. The combined model II (Serum CRP > 10.2 mg/l AND Synovial CRP > 7.26 mg/l) led to a specificity of 1, and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 1. Conclusion The present study demonstrated that the combination of serum and synovial CRP can be used as an adjunct to the diagnosis of chronic PJI.
The Association Between Manual Handling Operations and Pain in the Hands and Arms in the Context of the 2018 BIBB/BAuA Employment Survey
Authors: Mueller Charlotte , Sauter Martha , Barthelme Julia , Liebers Falk
Published: February 2021

Background: Manual handling operations (MHO) are tasks performed by hand that require a high frequency of repetitive and forceful movements of the hand and forearm. MHO are currently performed in a large number of workplaces in skilled and unskilled professions in the production and service sectors. MHO are considered a work-related health risk factor. The relationship between MHO and the occurrence of disorders of the upper extremities has already been established. MHO can cause diseases such as tenosynovitis of the forearm and carpal tunnel syndrome. This study aims to assess the current prevalence of exposure to MHO in the German workforce and to evaluate the relationship between MHO and the occurrence of disorders in the hands and arms. Methods: The analysis was based on the German 2018 BIBB/BAuA Employment Survey . We included subjects aged between 15 and 66 who work at least 35 hours per week. The self-reported frequency of MHO (never; rarely; sometimes; often) was considered the exposure of interest and was stratified by gender and occupation. Prevalence ratios were used to report the relationship between MHO and self-reported pain in the hands and arms (robust log-linear Poisson regression). Adjustments were made for age, gender, actual weekly working hours, psychosocial workload, and other physical workloads. Results: The analysis included 14,299 employees. Nearly 33% of the male and 31% of the female subjects reported that they often perform MHO. These workloads were often reported by respondents who work in the agricultural sector (men: 70%; women: 79%), in unskilled (men: 59%; women: 67%) and skilled manual occupations (men: 73%; women: 67%). A higher frequency of self-reported MHO was clearly associated with a higher prevalence of hand complaints (PR 2.26 CI: 2.00 - 2.55) as well as arm pain (PR 1.73 CI: 1.55 – 1.92). Conclusion: MHO are still frequent in many occupations. The association between self-reported frequencies of MHO and pain in the hands and arms shown here demonstrates the importance of MHO in the current German workforce and the necessity to further develop prevention strategies.
Percutaneous Curved Kyphoplasty in the Treatment of Thoracolumbar Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wang Chen , Zhang Yu , Chen Wang , Yan Shi-Lei , Guo Kai-Jin , Feng Shuo
Published: February 2021

Background To evaluate the clinical efficacy of percutaneous curved kyphoplasty (PCKP) in treating thoracic and lumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs).Methods Seventy-two patients with single-level thoracolumbar OVCFs were recruited and randomly divided into two treatment groups: percutaneous curved kyphoplasty (PCKP), bilateral percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP). Bone cement dispersion in the fractured vertebrae was observed. Surgery duration, X-ray frequency, bone cement injection volume, bone cement leakage rate, oswestry disability index questionnaire (ODI)，visual analogue scale (VAS) scores，Cobb angle, and vertebral height were recorded.Results Both groups of patients at postoperative 24h and 6 months in postoperative VAS score and ODI were compared with preoperative significant improvement, but no statistical difference between two groups; The operative time, intraoperative fluoroscopy times, intraoperative bone cement injection amount and intraoperative bone cement leakage in the PCKP group were significantly less than those in the traditional PKP group, and the differences were statistically significant. The anterior edge height and Cobb angle of the injured vertebra were significantly improved after operation in both groups, but the differences between the two groups were not statistically significant. Conclusion PCKP has the same short-term effect as traditional bilateral PKP in the treatment of elderly osteoporotic compression fractures, both of which can significantly relieve pain and improve life function. However, PCKP is associated with reduced trauma, less complicated surgery with shorter duration, fewer X-rays, lower complication rate, and quicker postoperative recovery versus traditional bilateral PKP.Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR2100042859. Registered 25 January 2021- Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/ ChiCTR2100042859
Ageing in rural Brazil: a socio-demographic analysis of living conditions among black and white women and men
Authors: Ferreira João Paulo , Leeson George , Melhado Vivian
Published: February 2021

The aim of this article is to describe and analyse the general social conditions related to race/ethnicity, gender, class and schooling in a sample of 500 subjects (n = 250 men; n = 250 women), aged 60 and over, who are Unified Health System users and resident in the rural area of a medium-sized city in São Paulo state. The methodological design was qualitative, grouping techniques to describe and analyse the selected categories intersectionally, making a sociological and critical analysis about old age in a rural context. For the data collection, we used a structured questionnaire with closed-ended questions concerning socio-demographic aspects. Using the IBM-SPSS Software (version 20.0), a database was produced with descriptive and specific information about the sample. The results corroborated different socio-demographic indicators between men and women, having significant distinctions for schooling and income to the detriment of the racial/ethnic profile of both groups. The conclusions attest profound social differences in the ageing process and old age in a rural context, radicalizing – unequally – from aspects related to “gender” and “race/ethnicity”.
The Rise of West Nile Virus in Europe: investigating
the combined effects of climate, land use and
economic changes
Authors: Watts Matthew , Kotsila Panagiota , Mortyn Peter Graham , Monteys Victor Sarto i
Published: February 2021

West Nile Virus (WNV) has recently emerged as a major public health concern in Europe, its recent expansion also coincided with
some remarkable socio-economic and environmental changes, including an economic crisis and some of the warmest temperatures
on record. Here we empirically investigate the drivers for this phenomenon at a European wide scale by constructing and analysing
a unique spatial-temporal data-set, that includes data on climate, land-use, the economy, and government spending in key sectors
such as health and the environment. Drivers and risk factors of WNV were identified by building a conceptual framework, and
relationships were tested using a Generalized Additive Model (GAM), which could capture complex non-linear relationships and
also account for the spatial and temporal auto-correlation. As expected, land use factors (higher percentage of wetlands and
agricultural land) and climate factors (higher summer rainfall and higher summer temperatures) were positive predictors of WNV
infections. However, we found that a mean winter temperature of between 2 °C and 6 °C was the best predictor of annual WNV
infections, suggesting that successful overwintering of infected adult mosquitoes (likely Culex pipiens) was key to the intensity of
outbreaks for a given year. This result, taken in the context of recent winter warming due to climate change, demonstrates how
the virus has become so prevalent in Europe. Furthermore, lower GDP growth, lower spending growth on environmental factors
such as agriculture, forest, fisheries, and waste water management were also strong predictors of WNV infections, suggesting
that austerity and cuts to key sectors benefited vector species and the virus during this crucial period. Waste water management
spending may be a reliable causative factor, due to, for instance, the neglect of hazard prevention efforts, such as spending on
flood defences, essential works like sanitation and upkeep and of infrastructure, that can lead to the creation of mosquito breeding
habitats, e.g. potholes, blocked drain. This study should act as a cautionary tale; central governments looking to embark on
austerity measures should exercise extreme caution given the long term trade-offs and unintended consequences they can have on
the environment and human health, especially when considering we are facing numerous threats brought about by global warming
and other anthropogenic induced changes, that can benefit emerging diseases i.e. global trade in wild animals, intensive agriculture
animal rearing and land use conversion.