bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of SARAhome, a New Video‐Based Tool for the Assessment of Ataxia at Home
Authors: Grobe‐Einsler Marcus , Taheri Amin Arian , Faber Jennifer , Schaprian Tamara , Jacobi Heike , Schmitz‐Hübsch Tanja , Diallo Alhassane , Tezenas du Montcel Sophie , Klockgether Thomas
Published: January 2021

Background

Clinical scales such as the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) cannot be used to study ataxia at home or to assess daily fluctuations. The objective of the current study was to develop a video‐based instrument, SARAhome, for measuring ataxia severity easily and independently at home.

Methods

Based on feasibility of self‐application, we selected 5 SARA items (gait, stance, speech, nose‐finger test, fast alternating hand movements) for SARAhome (range, 0–28). We compared SARAhome items with total SARA scores in 526 patients with spinocerebellar ataxia types 1, 2, 3, and 6 from the EUROSCA natural history study. To prospectively validate the SARAhome, we directly compared the self‐applied SARAhome and the conventional SARA in 50 ataxia patients. To demonstrate feasibility of independent home recordings in a pilot study, 12 ataxia patients were instructed to obtain a video each morning and evening over a period of 14 days. All videos were rated offline by a trained rater.

Results

SARAhome extracted from the EUROSCA baseline data was highly correlated with conventional SARA (r = 0.9854, P < 0.0001). In the prospective validation study, the SARAhome was highly correlated with the conventional SARA (r = 0.9254, P < 0.0001). Five of 12 participants of the pilot study obtained a complete set of 28 evaluable videos. Seven participants obtained 13–27 videos. The intraindividual differences between the lowest and highest SARAhome scores ranged from 1 to 5.5.

Conclusion

The SARAhome and the conventional SARA are highly correlated. Application at home is feasible. There was a considerable degree of intraindividual variability of the SARAhome scores. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Impaired Pre‐Motor Circuit Activity and Movement in a Drosophila Model of KCNMA1‐Linked Dyskinesia
Authors: Kratschmer Patrick , Lowe Simon A. , Buhl Edgar , Chen Ko‐Fan , Kullmann Dimitri M. , Pittman Alan , Hodge James J.L. , Jepson James E.C.
Published: January 2021

Background

Paroxysmal dyskinesias (PxDs) are characterized by involuntary movements and altered pre‐motor circuit activity. Causative mutations provide a means to understand the molecular basis of PxDs. Yet in many cases, animal models harboring corresponding mutations are lacking. Here we utilize the fruit fly, Drosophila, to study a PxD linked to a gain‐of‐function (GOF) mutation in the KCNMA1/hSlo1 BK potassium channel.

Objectives

We aimed to recreate the equivalent BK (big potassium) channel mutation in Drosophila. We sought to determine how this mutation altered action potentials (APs) and synaptic release in vivo; to test whether this mutation disrupted pre‐motor circuit function and locomotion; and to define neural circuits involved in locomotor disruption.

Methods

We generated a knock‐in Drosophila model using homologous recombination. We used electrophysiological recordings and calcium‐imaging to assess AP shape, neurotransmission, and the activity of the larval pre‐motor central pattern generator (CPG). We used video‐tracking and automated systems to measure movement, and developed a genetic method to limit BK channel expression to defined circuits.

Results

Neuronal APs exhibited reduced width and an enhanced afterhyperpolarization in the PxD model. We identified calcium‐dependent reductions in neurotransmitter release, dysfunction of the CPG, and corresponding alterations in movement, in model larvae. Finally, we observed aberrant locomotion and dyskinesia‐like movements in adult model flies, and partially mapped the impact of GOF BK channels on movement to cholinergic neurons.

Conclusion

Our model supports a link between BK channel GOF and hyperkinetic movements, and provides a platform to dissect the mechanistic basis of PxDs. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Lymphaticovenous anastomosis for advanced‐stage lower limb lymphedema
Authors: Hara Hisako , Mihara Makoto
Published: January 2021

Background

Early‐stage lymphedema patients are said to be candidates for lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA). The progressions in the preoperative examinations have made it possible to find the suitable lymphatic vessels even in advanced‐stage lymphedema. The aim of this study was to elucidate the surgical effect of LVA in cases of advanced‐stage lymphedema.

Methods

We evaluated 42 limbs of 34 patients with lymphoscintigraphic type 4 or 5. A mean disease duration was 7.5 ± 6.5 years. We performed multi‐lymphosome indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography preoperatively to detect the saphenous lymphatics, the lateral calf lymphatics, and the lateral thigh lymphatics. We also performed ultrasound to detect the subcutaneous veins and the dilated lymphatic vessels. The pre‐ and postoperative evaluation was made by the sum of circumference measurements at 6 points per limb.

Results

The mean number of anastomosis per limb was 2.8 (range, 1–5). Of the 41 limbs for which we performed ICG lymphography, we found the saphenous lymphatics in 29 limbs (70.7%), lateral calf lymphatics in 28 limbs (68.3%), and lateral thigh lymphatics in 21 limbs (51.2%). We found at least 1 linear pattern in ICG lymphography for 39 limbs (95.1%). The mean pre‐ and postoperative circumference (sum of 6 points) were 221.7 ± 4.9 cm and 215.9 ± 4.9 cm, which was significantly reduced (p < .01).

Conclusions

LVA was effective for advanced‐stage lymphedema patients. An adequate preoperative examination with plural imaging methods seems helpful for achieving a successful surgical result.
Maxillary reconstruction with scapular tip chimeric free flap
Authors: Ferri Andrea , Perlangeli Giuseppe , Bianchi Bernardo , Zito Francesca , Sesenna Enrico , Ferrari Silvano
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Purpose of the article is to discuss the use of the scapular tip free flap (STFF) for the reconstruction of maxillary defects.

Methods

A retrospective evaluation of patients who underwent maxillary reconstruction with STFF is presented. Patients were evaluated with respect to complications, function, and cosmesis.

Results

Study population consisted of 53 patients. All flaps survived and partial bone resorption only occurred in a young patient. Minor complications included two instances of partial muscular necrosis. The donor site was primarily closed in all patients. Mouth opening was assessed as good (>3 cm) in 41 patients, partially limited (2–3 cm) in 9 patients, and limited (<2 cm) in 3 patients. Dental rehabilitation was achieved in 35 patients; esthetic results were assessed by patient as excellent in 19 patients, good in 28 patients, and poor in 6 patients.

Conclusions

The scapular tip chimeric free flap represents an indispensable tool for reconstructive head and neck microsurgery. The main advantages of this technique are very low donor site morbidity and a long pedicle, as well as the potential for harvesting multiple flaps in a chimeric design; STFF represents the first choice for treatment of small postero‐lateral defects of the maxilla, and of wide and complex through‐and‐through defects involving all components of the midface.
Magnetic confinement at a boundary approximates specular reflection
Authors: Zhiyuan Zhang Katherine
Published: January 2021

We conjecture that for a plasma in a spatial domain with a boundary, the specular reflection effect of the boundary can be approximated by a large magnetic confinement field in the near‐boundary region. In this paper, we verify this conjecture for the 1.5D relativistic Vlasov–Maxwell (RVM) system on a bounded domain
with an external confining magnetic field.
Digestion and Transport across the Intestinal Epithelium Affects the Allergenicity of Ara h 1 and 3 but Not of Ara h 2 and 6
Authors: Smits Mark , Nooijen Irene , Redegeld Frank , de Jong Aard , Le Thuy‐My , Knulst André , Houben Geert , Verhoeckx Kitty
Published: January 2021

Scope

No accepted and validated methods are currently available which can accurately predict protein allergenicity. In this study, the role of digestion and transport on protein allergenicity is investigated.

Methods and results

Peanut allergens (Ara h 1, 2, 3, and 6) and a milk allergen (β‐lactoglobulin) are transported across pig intestinal epithelium using the InTESTine model and afterward basophil activation is measured to assess the (remaining) functional properties. Additionally, allergens are digested by pepsin prior to epithelial transport and their allergenicity is assessed in a human mast cell activation assay. Remarkably, transported Ara h 1 and 3 are not able to activate basophils, in contrast to Ara h 2 and 6. Digestion prior to transport results in a significant increase in mast cell activation of Ara h 1 and 3 dependent on the length of digestion time. Activation of mast cells by Ara h 2 and 6 is unaffected by digestion prior to transport.

Conclusions

Digestion and transport influences the allergenicity of Ara h 1 and 3, but not of Ara h 2 and 6. The influence of digestion and transport on protein allergenicity may explain why current in vitro assays are not predictive for allergenicity.
Classification of neurofibromatosis‐related dystrophic or nondystrophic scoliosis based on image features using Bilateral CNN
Authors: He Zhong , Wang Yimu , Qin Xiaodong , Yin Rui , Qiu Yong , He Kelei , Zhu Zezhang
Published: January 2021

Purpose

We developed a system that can automatically classify cases of scoliosis secondary to neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1‐S) using deep learning algorithms (DLAs) and improve the accuracy and effectiveness of classification, thereby assisting surgeons with the auxiliary diagnosis.

Methods

Comprehensive experiments in NF1 classification were performed based on a dataset consisting 211 NF1‐S (131 dystrophic and 80 nondystrophic NF1‐S) patients. Additionally, 100 congenital scoliosis (CS), 100 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients, and 114 normal controls were used for experiments in primary classification. For identification of NF1‐S with nondystrophic or dystrophic curves, we devised a novel network (i.e., Bilateral convolutional neural network [CNN]) utilizing a bilinear‐like operation to discover the similar interest features between whole spine AP and lateral x‐ray images. The performance of Bilateral CNN was compared with spine surgeons, conventional DLAs (i.e., VGG‐16, ResNet‐50, and Bilinear CNN [BCNN]), recently proposed DLAs (i.e., ShuffleNet, MobileNet, and EfficientNet), and Two‐path BCNN which was the extension of BCNN using AP and lateral x‐ray images as inputs.

Results

In NF1 classification, our proposed Bilateral CNN with 80.36% accuracy outperformed the other seven DLAs ranging from 61.90% to 76.19% with fivefold cross‐validation. It also outperformed the spine surgeons (with an average accuracy of 77.5% for the senior surgeons and 65.0% for the junior surgeons). Our method is highly generalizable due to the proposed methodology and data augmentation. Furthermore, the heatmaps extracted by Bilateral CNN showed curve pattern and morphology of ribs and vertebrae contributing most to the classification results. In primary classification, our proposed method with an accuracy of 87.92% also outperformed all the other methods with varied accuracies between 52.58% and 83.35% with fivefold cross‐validation.

Conclusions

The proposed Bilateral CNN can automatically capture representative features for classifying NF1‐S utilizing AP and lateral x‐ray images, leading to a relatively good performance. Moreover, the proposed method can identify other spine deformities for auxiliary diagnosis.
The impact of 4D flow displacement artifacts on wall shear stress estimation
Authors: Schmidt Simon , Flassbeck Sebastian , Schmelter Sonja , Schmeyer Ellen , Ladd Mark E. , Schmitter Sebastian
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To investigate the amplitude and spatial distribution of errors in wall shear stress (WSS) values derived from 4D flow measurements caused by displacement artifacts intrinsic to the 4D flow acquisition.

Methods

Phase‐contrast MRI velocimetry was performed in a model of a stenotic aorta using two different timing schemes, both of which are commonly applied in vivo but differ in their resulting displacement artifacts. Whereas one scheme is optimized to minimize the duration of the encoding gradients (herein called FAST), the other aims to specifically minimize displacement artifacts by synchronizing all three spatial‐encoding time points (called ECHO). WSS estimates were calculated and compared to unbiased WSS values obtained by a 5‐hour single‐point imaging acquisition. In addition, MRI simulations based on computational fluid dynamics data were carried out to investigate the impact of gradient timings corresponding to different spatial resolutions.

Results

4D flow displacement artifacts were found to have an impact on the quantified WSS peak values, spatial location, and overall WSS pattern. FAST leads to the underestimation of local WSS values in the phantom arch by up to 90%. Moreover, the corresponding WSS estimates depend on the image orientation. This effect was avoided using ECHO, which, however, results in biased WSS values within the stenosis, yielding an underestimation of peak WSS by up to 17%. Computational fluid dynamics‐based simulation results show that the bias in WSS due to displacement artifacts increases with increasing spatial resolution, thus counteracting the resolution benefit for WSS due to reduced partial volume effects and segmentation errors.

Conclusions

4D flow displacement artifacts can significantly impact the WSS estimates and depend on the timing scheme as well as potentially the image orientation. Whereas FAST might allow correct WSS estimation for lower resolutions, ECHO is recommended especially when spatial resolutions of 1 mm and smaller are used. Users need to be aware of this nonnegligible effect, particularly when conducting inter‐site studies or studies between vendors. The timing scheme should thus be explicitly mentioned in publications.
Determinants and functional impacts of diaphragmatic involvement in patients with inclusion body myositis
Authors: Lelièvre Marie‐Hélène , Hudson Marie , Botez Stephan A. , Dubé Bruno‐Pierre
Published: January 2021

Background

We evaluated the functional consequences of diaphragm involvement in patients with inclusion body myositis (IBM).

Methods

Ultrasound diaphragm thickening fraction (TFdi), lung function and dyspnea levels were compared between IBM patients and matched controls. Patients with IBM were grouped into “low” and “high” diaphragm activity based on TFdi values (with cutoff value being the lowest observed TFdi in the control group), and clinical characteristics were compared between groups.

Results

20 IBM patients were included. TFdi was significantly lower in patients and correlated with time since symptom onset (rho = 0.74, P < .001). Patients had significantly lower forced vital capacity and higher dyspnea scores than controls. IBM patients with “low” diaphragm activity (n = 9) had lower 6‐min walking distance, higher resting and exertional dyspnea and a larger positional decrease in vital capacity (all P ≤ .03) than patients with ‘high’ activity. Timed Up and Go time and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire were not different between groups.

Conclusions

Diaphragm involvement in IBM is related to disease duration and has detrimental effects on lung function, dyspnea and exercise capacity. Further studies are required to investigate its potential as a therapeutic target.
Ultrafast spectroscopic investigation of the artificial photosynthetic activity of CuAlS2/ZnS quantum dots
Authors: Mukherjee Arpita , Dutta Pranab , Bhattacharyya Biswajit , Rajasekar Guru Pratheep , Simlandy Amit Kumar , Pandey Anshu
Published: January 2021

CuAlS2/ZnS Quantum dots (QDs) are known to directly convert aqueous solutions of bicarbonate ions to oxygen and organic molecules such as formate with a remarkable efficiency even under sunlight. In cases, fairly complicated organic reaction products such as acetate and methanol have been observed when reactions are allowed to continue for longer periods of time. Here, we investigate the electron dynamics that occurs within CuAlS2/ZnS QDs and show that it is essentially dominated by ultrafast electron transfer (560 fs for 0.4 excitons per dot) to the surface. The electron dwell time in the conduction band increases exponentially (for example 872 fs for 1.4 excitons per dot) with the excitation fluence. This is reverse of the auger limited response of conventional QDs and is hypothesized to exhibit strong charge separation that lies at the root of the remarkable photocatalytic activity. We further investigate this system through multi‐pump experiments. We find that the system response to prior excitation changes over the period of nanoseconds, consistent with the charge reorganization in the system, well after the initial electron transfer. The results of these experiments are summarized in terms of a coulomb‐well interpretation.
A‐stable linear two‐step time integration methods with consistent starting and their equivalent single‐step methods in structural dynamics analysis
Authors: Zhang Jie
Published: January 2021

A spectral consistent starting procedure is proposed for the first‐order‐type A‐stable linear two‐step (LTS) time integration methods in structural dynamics analysis. The accuracy analysis for the LTS methods in structural dynamics is presented based on the first‐order model, which enables the algorithms in first‐order transient systems to be extended to structural dynamics under the umbrella of a consistent framework. It is indicated that the approximation of the loads plays an essential role in the equivalence between the LTS methods and some single‐step methods. An algorithmic equivalence feature, which is stricter than the spectral equivalence, is revealed between the two‐leg generalized‐α methods in first‐order systems and the A‐stable LTS methods. The measures of the error constant in the LTS methods and the ultimate spectral radius are extended to optimize a class of single‐step methods of a given convergence order. The spectral consistent starting procedure for the A‐stable LTS methods is developed by utilizing the algorithmic equivalence of the single‐step methods, which results in an optimal A‐stable LTS (OALTS) method possessing a consistent spectral radius with controllable numerical dissipation in the starting step and the steps thereafter. Comparing with the equivalent single‐step methods, the present OALTS method does not need the auxiliary variables, and its displacement, velocity and acceleration can achieve second‐order accuracy simultaneously. The performance of the present OALTS method is verified by numerical examples including physical damping, external loads, and/or nonlinearity.
Numerical implementation and validation of a porous approach for fluid–structure interaction applied to pressurized water reactors fuel assemblies under axial water flow and dynamic excitation
Authors: Faucher Vincent , Ricciardi Guilllaume , Boccaccio Romain , Cruz Kevin , Lohez Thibaud , Clément Simon A.
Published: January 2021

The proposed contribution is dedicated to numerical methods for solving strongly coupled fluid–structure dynamic problems where the complexity of the structures and the reduced remaining fluid volume do not allow to handle their exact geometry. Porous approaches are preferred instead but it is mandatory to go beyond classical techniques to account for inertial and convective components of the flow, as explicitly required by the application of the methods to the dynamics of a set of pressurized water reactors fuel assemblies under axial flow and seismic‐like loading. A new computational framework is thus introduced with special care given to stability, robustness, and computational efficiency of the coupled solver. Comparisons with well‐chosen experimental results provide some valuable validation of the numerical methods and demonstrate the ability of the model to reproduce the hydraulic coupling between several fuel assemblies.
A refinement indicator for adaptive quasicontinuum approaches for structural lattices
Authors: Chen Li , Berke Péter Z. , Massart Thierry J. , Beex Lars A.A. , Magliulo Marco , Bordas Stéphane P.A.
Published: January 2021

The quasicontinuum (QC) method is a concurrent multiscale approach in which lattice models are fully resolved in small regions of interest and coarse‐grained elsewhere. Since the method was originally proposed to accelerate atomistic lattice simulations, its refinement criteria—that drive refining coarse‐grained regions and/or increasing fully‐resolved regions—are generally associated with quantities relevant to the atomistic scale. In this contribution, a new refinement indicator is presented, based on the energies of dedicated cells at coarse‐grained domain surfaces. This indicator is incorporated in an adaptive scheme of a generalization of the QC method able to consider periodic representative volume elements, like the ones employed in most computational homogenization approaches. However, this indicator can also be used for conventional QC frameworks. Illustrative numerical examples of elastic indentation and scratch of different lattices demonstrate the capabilities of the refinement indicator and its impact on adaptive QC simulations.
Mental health as a prerequisite for functioning as optimally as possible in old age: A phenomenological approach
Authors: Al Gilani Samal , Tingö Lina , Kihlgren Annica , Schröder Agneta
Published: January 2021

Aim

To describe the impact of mental health on the ability to function optimally among older adults experiencing mental health issues.

Design

This study had a descriptive qualitative design.

Methods

Six older females with a Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) score of ≥8 on either of the subscales (depression or anxiety) participated in individual interviews. All data were analysed using a phenomenological approach influenced by Giorgi.

Results

The phenomenological analysis led to a structured synthesis comprising the following three themes: (a) life situations affecting mental health, (b) consequences of mental health in everyday life and (c) strategies for maintaining mental health.
Effect of educational‐ counseling program based on precede‐proceed model during Pregnancy on postpartum depression
Authors: Beydokhti Tahereh Baloochi , Dehnoalian Atefeh , Moshki Mahdi , Akbary Ali
Published: January 2021

Aim

To explore the effects of an educational‐ counselling programme based on the precede–proceed model during pregnancy on preventing post‐partum depression.

Design

A randomized clinical trial (RCT) study.

Method

130 pregnant women were selected and randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Data collection was carried out using questionnaires of predisposing, reinforcing and enabling factors, GHQ and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The Education programme was designed and performed in each group in a given weekday through four 60‐minute sessions. The whole intervention lasted for one month in all groups. The participants in the control group were given routine pregnancy care. Data were gathered before and after the intervention in both groups.

Results

Independent t test showed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean score of predisposing, reinforcing, enabling factors and post‐partum depression (p < .05). Regression tests indicated predisposing, reinforcing, enabling factors and general health as the most important factors associated with post‐partum depression (p < .05). The results supported the effectiveness of the educational intervention on reducing post‐partum depression and showed that implementing these training during pregnancy leads to a reduced level of post‐partum depression.
Practices and perceptions at the COVID‐19 transition in undergraduate animal science courses
Authors: Erickson MaryGrace , Wattiaux Michel A.
Published: January 2021

The swift transition to remote learning in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic presented substantial challenges for both students and instructors in post‐secondary natural sciences education. To examine teaching practices and student engagement during the emergency remote learning in the Spring 2020 semester, we surveyed 10 instructors and 261 students in an animal and dairy sciences department at a large midwestern university. Instructors reported using a diversity of teaching practices. On average, students perceived high teaching presence and cognitive presence and moderate social presence during emergency remote learning. Student‐reported educational experience differed substantially between courses and explained a significant amount of variance in student engagement and satisfaction outcomes (p < .001). Open‐ended responses revealed beliefs and attributions about remote learning that shaped students’ interpretations of educational experiences. Results support the validity of the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework for assessing emergency remote learning and suggest future research on modulators of social presence.
Active and passive seismic surface wave methods for levee assessment in the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta, California, USA
Authors: Craig Mitchell S. , Hayashi Koichi , Kozacı Özgür
Published: January 2021

Seismic surveys were performed using a novel application of combined active and passive surface wave methods to evaluate the integrity of levees protecting islands in the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta, California, USA, from flooding. Delta islands have been undergoing rapid subsidence during the past century due to farming practices that have led to the loss of a surficial peat layer. A large earthquake on any one of several active faults in the region could cause multiple levee failures and extensive flooding in the Delta. Surface wave surveys were carried out along the crest of levees using the active method (2D multichannel analysis of surface waves) and along the base of levees using the passive method (microtremor array method). This allowed 2D seismic S‐wave velocity (VS) profiles to be prepared for each site by combining shallow data from the active survey along the crown of the levee with deeper data from a passive survey along the toe of the levee. TheseVS profiles reveal a low‐velocity peat layer beneath the levee body that was confirmed by geotechnical borehole logs. Lateral variability of the levee was evaluated using average velocity to the base of the levee versus along‐levee distance.
Para‐ortho hydrogen conversion: Solving a 90‐year old mystery
Authors: Zhang Xia , Karman Tijs , Groenenboom Gerrit C. , van der Avoird Ad
Published: January 2021

Almost ninety years have passed since the experiments of Farkas and Sachsse [Z. Phys. Chem. B 1933; 23:1] on para‐ortho hydrogen conversion catalyzed by paramagnetic species such as O, but a detailed and quantitative understanding of the conversion process and its temperature dependence was still lacking. Here, we present a complete and quantitative theoretical treatment of this catalytic process. Both interactions causing the conversion are included: the magnetic dipole‐dipole coupling between the electron spin of O and the nuclear spins in H and the Fermi contact coupling from spin densities at the H‐nuclei induced by O. The latter were extracted from ab initio electronic structure calculations. State‐to‐state conversion cross sections and rate coefficients are obtained from quantum mechanical coupled‐channel calculations including the full anisotropic O‐H interaction potential and by treating both the spin‐dependent couplings perturbatively. The total rate coefficient agrees with the experimental value recently measured by Wagner [Magn. Reson. Mater. Phys., Biol. Med. 2014; 27:195] in O‐H gas mixtures and explains the temperature dependence observed in the 1933 measurements mentioned above.

Key points

two species of hydrogen, para and ortho

conversion finally explained by ab initio theory

para‐hydrogen induced polarization in NMR and MRI
The first archaeological case of permanent teeth fusion in Europe
Authors: Collina Federica , Conti Sara , Menetti Maria , Scheda Lorenzo , Sorrentino Rita , Benazzi Stefano
Published: January 2021

Teeth fusion is a developmental anomaly characterized by the union of two and, more rarely, three adjacent teeth. The fusion is caused by the physical pressure between two adjacent teeth during their development due to congenital, inherited, acquired or idiopathic factors. Nowadays, fused teeth occur with a frequency ratio between 0.1% and 1% in permanent dentition and 0.5% and 2.5% in primary dentition, and with an equal distribution between males and females. Fused teeth are a rare clinical finding, so there are not standardized clinical protocols and each case should be treated independently. This condition is rare in archaeological populations, likely due to taphonomic processes that cause the lack of information, as well as for the general low occurrence of the defect itself. In the European archaeological literature, there are no reports of two permanent fused teeth so far. Therefore, the present paper represents the first case study of two fused permanent incisors in the past Europe populations as this anomaly has been recognized in an adult man buried in the Longobard cemetery of Guidizzolo (VI–VII century A.D., northern Italy).
On the Heterogeneous Nature of Cisplatin‐1‐Methyluracil Complexes: Coexistence of Different Aggregation Modes and Partial Loss of NH3 Ligands as Likely Explanation
Authors: Pullen Sonja , Hegmans Alexander , Hiller Wolf G. , Platzek André , Freisinger Eva , Lippert Bernhard
Published: January 2021

The conversion of the 1 : 1‐complex of Cisplatin with 1‐methyluracil (1MeUH), cis‐[Pt(NH3)2(1MeU‐N3)Cl] (1 a) to the aqua species cis‐[Pt(NH3)2(1MeU‐N3)(OH2)]+ (1 b), achieved by reaction of 1 a with AgNO3 in water, affords a mixture of compounds, the composition of which strongly depends on sample history. The complexity stems from variations in condensation patterns and partial loss of NH3 ligands. In dilute aqueous solution, 1 a, and dinuclear compounds cis‐[(NH3)2(1MeU‐N3)Pt(μ‐OH)Pt(1MeU‐N3)(NH3)2]+(3) as well as head‐tail cis‐[Pt2(NH3)4(μ‐1MeU‐N3,O4)2]2+ (4) represent the major components. In addition, there are numerous other species present in minor quantities, which differ in metal nuclearity, stoichiometry, stereoisomerism, and Pt oxidation state, as revealed by a combination of 1H NMR and ESI‐MS spectroscopy. Their composition appears not to be the consequence of a unique and repeating coordination pattern of the 1MeU ligand in oligomers but rather the coexistence of distinctly different condensation patterns, which include μ‐OH, μ‐1MeU, and μ‐NH2 bridging and combinations thereof. Consequently, the products obtained should, in total, be defined as a heterogeneous mixture rather than a mixture of oligomers of different sizes. In addition, a N2 complex, [Pt(NH3)(1MeU)(N2)]+ appears to be formed in gas phase during the ESI‐MS experiment. In the presence of Na+ ions, multimers n of 1 a with n=2, 3, 4 are formed that represent analogues of non‐metalated uracil quartets found in tetrastranded RNA.
The Effects of Special Education on the Academic Performance of Students with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Schwartz Amy Ellen , Hopkins Bryant Gregory , Stiefel Leanna
Published: January 2021

In the 40‐plus years since the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, special education has grown in the number of students and amount spent on services. Despite this growth, academic performance of students with disabilities remains troublingly low compared to general education students. To some extent, these differences reflect persistent underlying disabilities, but they also may reflect ineffective services. Does special education improve academic outcomes for students with disabilities? There is surprisingly little evidence to guide policy and answer this question. This paper provides an answer for the largest disability group, students with specific learning disabilities (LDs), using rich New York City public school data. Because the majority of LDs are classified after school entry, we observe outcomes before and after classification, allowing us to estimate impacts using within‐student pre/post comparisons (student fixed effects) and an intent‐to‐treat specification. We find that academic outcomes improve for LDs following classification into special education and impacts are largest for those entering special education in earlier grades. Attendance, however, shows little change after classification. Results are robust to alternative specifications and falsification tests bolster confidence in a causal interpretation. Differences in impacts by gender, race/ethnicity, grade of classification, and settings illuminate possible mechanisms.
Clear cell sarcoma of the kidney in Austrian children: Long‐term survival after relapse
Authors: Friesenbichler Waltraud , Lüftinger Roswitha , Kropshofer Gabriele , Henkel Martin , Amann Gabriele , Furtwängler Rhoikos , Graf Norbert , Kager Leo
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK) is a rare malignant childhood renal tumour. Recently, the central nervous system (CNS) was found to be the most frequent site of relapse associated with a poor outcome. Optimal treatment strategies are scarce.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective data analysis of all Austrian children with CCSK. They were enrolled in the Austrian‐Hungarian Wilms Tumour Study (AHWTS) 1989, the SIOP93‐01 or the SIOP2001 study between 1990 and 2019. Demographic, diagnostic, treatment‐related variables and survival data were analysed.

Results

We identified 12 children with CCSK (M = 7, F = 5; median age 1.6 years). All had localised disease (stage I: 2; stage II: 2; stage III: 8) at diagnosis, and a first complete remission (CR1) was achieved in 12/12. Six patients are in an ongoing CR1 (median follow‐up 10 years). Six other patients had a relapse (local 1; brain 5) a median time of 2.4 years from diagnosis. Two patients died of the disease 4 months and 2.8 years after first relapse. Four of five patients with CNS relapse are in CR2 with a median follow‐up time of 9.3 years after relapse diagnosis. Relapse treatment included a combination of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Two children received high‐dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell rescue, and one child received intrathecal mafosphamide. Long‐term side effects after treatment were impaired tubular renal function (n = 4), cardiomyopathy (n = 1) and growth disorders (n = 1).

Conclusions

In this series, the brain was the most common site of relapse. Long‐term survival after recurrence was achievable with intensive multimodal therapy.
Fabrication and mechanical properties of TiO2 polymer‐matrix nanocomposite and its 3D woven composite
Authors: Gong Yaohua , Zhang Xun'an , Huang Tao , Li Xinghao , Suo Yongyong , Zhao Shuyi
Published: January 2021

The present work aims to study the effect of nano‐TiO2 modified epoxy on the tension, compression, and fracture toughness properties of nano‐doped polymer (NP) and nano‐doped 3D woven (NW) composites. Nanoparticles are dispersed into epoxy using high‐speed shear mixing and ultrasonication processes. Vacuum‐assisted resin infusion molding process is utilized to prepare the woven composites. The results indicate that nanoparticle addition can improve the tensile modulus and compressive strength of NP composites. The best improvement for fracture toughness of NP composites and compressive strength of NW composites appears at 8 wt% addition. No obvious changes are observed for tensile modulus and strength of NW composites in both warp and weft directions. However, the decreasing trend is observed for the tensile strength of NP composites. Scanning electron microscope images are observed to evaluate the failure mechanisms of the NP and NW composites.
Quantitative determination of isoflavonoids in Ononis species by UPLC‐UV‐DAD
Authors: Gampe Nóra , Nagy Erzsébet , Kursinszki László , Béni Szabolcs
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The root of the Ononis species has been used internally and externally in ethnomedicine for centuries and contains biologically valuable isoflavonoid compounds. Therefore, it is important to obtain quantitative information about the isoflavonoid profile of these plants.

Objectives

In this article we aimed to develop an optimised sample preparation protocol alongside a validated method for the quantitative measurement of isoflavones, isoflavanones and pterocarpans in the form of glucosides and aglycones, in order to compare the specialised metabolites of Ononis spinosa L. and O. arvensis L.

Material and methods

Quantitative determination was carried out by the means of ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultraviolet diode‐array detection (UPLC‐UV‐DAD).

Results

An optimised sample preparation method was developed to transform malonyl glucosides to their glucosidic forms. Chromatographic methods were created for the baseline separation of isoflavones, isoflavanones and pterocarpans alongside with their glucosides. Altogether 12 compounds were evaluated quantitatively in samples of O. spinosa and O. arvensis.

Conclusion

As a result, no characteristic change could be observed between the two species regarding their isoflavonoid pattern.
Aesthetic principles, the arts, and the interpretation of culture
Authors: von Brück Michael
Published: January 2021

Culture is symbolism. Symbols allow a distance between perception and interpretation and create space for intentional action. Science, the arts, and religions are different cultural strategies to transcend sensual perception and open up the search and representation of structures and relations in and yet beyond sensual experience. The arts demonstrate, interpret, and invent such connectivities. Knowing, feeling, and representing hidden structures influence the very ways of perception, which are categorized in theories of perception called aesthetics. The processual and non‐dual character of perception can be modeled not only on the basis of the well‐known distinctions in European epistemologies (based on Platonic and Aristotelian modes of thinking) but on the Buddhist theory of skandhas, which might be able to transcend the dualism of matter and mind. The dynamics of perception will be explained on this basis using the categories of beauty and sublime and veiling and revealing (unveiling). The central category of aesthetic processes is similarity or variation, being expressed in fractal proportions and relationships in the processes of knowing and feeling.
Aristotle's dream: Evolutionary and neural aspects of aesthetic communication in the arts
Authors: Sütterlin Christa , Yu Xinchi
Published: January 2021

Art in general perception is something that transcends our notion of reality. In view of the earliest findings in Paleolithic sites, their abstract appearance and sometimes ceremonial context increased their status of a secret language. Even the first figurative cave paintings remained in a context of an encoded semantic whole. The highly symbolic value of art seemed invulnerable. It was just the claim for “mimesis” in Greek antiquity (Plato) that urged artists to “realistically” depict what can be seen—as to stay in track of eternal messages behind. This devaluated the artistic oeuvre to a purely imitating craft and had to overcome at once several inherent obstacles. First, that reality (the phenomenal world) is in general only a pale reflection of what lays behind (Platonic ideas) and second, that the human eye, unlike the human mind, cannot penetrate to more than ephemeral impressions. Moreover, it mixed up reality with what we are able to see (i.e. visual perception), thus supposing a pinpoint representation of the world by our senses. Aristotle was the first to qualify art as picturing more than we usually are meant to see, filling the gap between the sensual and the spiritual world. Aristotelian aesthetics includes concepts of reduction and selection of composition and emotion, thus a summarized view within any performance of poetics or painting. And it took centuries to close the gap between natural and aesthetic perception or art. Life sciences in the 20th century discovered the evolutionary basis of sensory perception as being highly biased and organized, concept as emotion‐driven and thus, mentally equipped as well. This sets a new approach in our understanding of perception, art, and aesthetics as an ongoing communication in process on common bases. Art may cooperate or disagree, but never can cut the nexus with its perceptual prejudices and substrate.
Predictors of a response to dexmedetomidine in intubated, critically ill adult patients
Authors: DiCesare Michael A. , Rech Megan A. , DeMott Joshua M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Dexmedetomidine is a centrally acting α‐2 receptor agonist used to maintain light analgosedation in mechanically ventilated adults. This study was conducted to determine factors predictive of successful maintenance of light sedation (Richmond Agitation‐Sedation Scale (RASS) 0 to −2) for ≥60% of the first 48 h of mechanical ventilation with dexmedetomidine.

Methods

This was a single‐center, retrospective, cohort study of critically ill adult patients receiving dexmedetomidine and admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) between January 1, 2013, and August 31, 2019. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed in patients receiving dexmedetomidine for sedation to assess patient and clinical characteristics associated with a positive clinical response to dexmedetomidine.

Results

Of 1065 patients reviewed for study inclusion, 158 patients were included. Sixty‐two percent of patients initiated on dexmedetomidine to maintain light sedation were able to remain within this sedation target ≥60% of the time during the first 48 hours of therapy. Patients maintained within the target RASS score ≥60% of the time had a higher percentage of ventilator‐free days at 14 days (p = 0.044). The odds of having a mean time within goal RASS score ≥60% in the first 48 hours of mechanical ventilation after intubation were decreased by 9% for every point increase in sequential organ failure assessment score (odds ratio: 0.91, 95% confidence interval: 0.82–0.99).

Conclusion

Patients were less likely to maintain light sedation with dexmedetomidine as their degree of critical illness increased. The duration of time maintained within goal sedation after dexmedetomidine initiation and the impact on patient outcomes remain a research priority.
Enhancing piezoelectricity of poly(vinylidene fluoride) nano‐wrapped yarns with an innovative yarn electrospinning technique
Authors: Peng Hao‐Kai , Wu Meng‐Meng , Wang Yan‐Ting , Li Ting‐Ting , Sun Fei , Lou Ching‐Wen , Lin Jia‐Horng
Published: January 2021

Piezoelectric textiles have earned widespread acceptance in the application of wearable sensors owing to the stabilized energy conversion properties, high sensitivities and steady mechanical properties. In this study, silver‐coated nylon yarns are used as a core with poly(vinylidene fluoride) nanofibers as a wrap material, forming piezoelectric wrapped yarns. The effect of spinning process parameters on the structure and crystallinity of the piezoelectric yarn is investigated through studying the mechanical properties, β‐phase ratio, crystallinity and piezoelectric properties. The results indicate that the crystallinity of the wrapped yarn reaches 49.57% in this experiment, and when used for piezoelectricity, the piezoelectric voltage constant can reach up to 0.4323 mV m N−1. The wrapped yarns possess good softness and structural advantages of the sensing layer and thus show a great variety of application potential, such as in wearable and flexible sensors. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Burnout in oncology: Magnitude, risk factors and screening among professionals from Middle East and North Africa (BOMENA study)
Authors: Abusanad Atlal , Bensalem Assia , Shash Emad , Mula‐Hussain Layth , Benbrahim Zineb , Khatib Sami , Abdelhafiz Nafisa , Ansari Jawaher , Jradi Hoda , Alkattan Khaled , Jazieh Abdul R.
Published: January 2021

Background

Burnout (BO) among oncology professionals (OP) is increasingly being recognized. Early recognition and intervention can positively affect the quality of care and patient safety. This study investigated the prevalence, work and lifestyle factors affecting BO among OPs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

Methods

An online survey was conducted among MENA OPs between 10 February and 15 March 2020, using the validated Maslach Burnout Inventory of emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP) and personal accomplishment (PA), including questions regarding demography/work‐related factors and attitudes towards oncology. Data were analysed to measure BO prevalence and risk factors and explore a screening question for BO.

Results

Of 1054 respondents, 1017 participants (64% medical oncologists, 77% aged less than 45 years, 55% female, 74% married, 67% with children and 40% practiced a hobby) were eligible. The BO prevalence was 68% with high levels of EE and DP (35% and 57% of participants, respectively) and low PA scores (49%). BO was significantly associated with age less than 44 years, administrative work greater than 25% per day and the thought of quitting oncology (TQ). Practising a hobby, enjoying oncology communication and appreciating oncology work–life balance were associated with a reduced BO score and prevalence. North African countries reported the highest BO prevalence. Lack of BO education/support was identified among 72% of participants and TQ‐predicted burnout in 77%.

Conclusions

This is the largest BO study in MENA. The BO prevalence was high and several modifiable risk factors were identified, requiring urgent action. TQ is a simple and reliable screening tool for BO.
Oxidative Precipitation as a Versatile Method to Obtain Ferromagnetic Fe3O4 Nano‐ and Mesocrystals Adjustable in Morphology and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Granath Tim , Löbmann Peer , Mandel Karl
Published: January 2021

Oxidative precipitation is a facile synthesis method to obtain ferromagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles from ferrous salts—with unexplored potential. The concentration of base and oxidant alone strongly affects the particle's structure and thus their magnetic properties despite the same material, magnetite (Fe3O4), is obtained when precipitated with potassium hydroxide (KOH) from ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) and treated with potassium nitrate (KNO3) at appropriate temperature. Depending on the potassium hydroxide and potassium nitrate concentrations, it is possible to obtain a series of different types of either single crystals or mesocrystals. The time‐dependent mesocrystal evolution can be revealed via electron microscopy and provides insights into the process of oriented attachment, yielding faceted particles, showing a facet‐dependent reactivity. It is found that it is the nitrate and hydroxide concentration that influences the ligand exchange process and thus the crystallization pathways. The presence of sulfate ions contributes to the mesocrystal evolution as well, as sulfate apparently hinders further crystal fusion, as revealed via infrared spectroscopy. Finally, it is found that nitrite, as one possible and ecologically highly relevant reduction product occurring in nature in context with iron, only evolves if the reaction is quantitative.