bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New and Faster Method to Assess Vestibular Compensation: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Guajardo‐Vergara Carlos , Perez‐Fernandez Nicolas
Published: February 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Characterize the state of vestibular compensation of subjects diagnosed with acute unilateral vestibulopathy (AUV) of peripheral origin according to the temporal organization pattern of the refixation saccades (Perez and Rey (PR) score).

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study using previously collected clinical data from a tertiary referral center.

Methods

Following the vestibular compensation criteria defined by Eisenman, we used the video head impulse test as the main vestibular function test and compared the results with other traditional tests: rotatory chair test (ROT), caloric test, videonystagmography, clinical situation (CLIN), and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) questionnaire from 28 subjects (17 men, 11 women), average age 60.21 years, who were in a compensated and noncompensated vestibular situation. We used the PR score to measure the differences between the study groups. A cluster was developed to define a cutoff point that objectively distinguishes the vestibular compensation status.

Results

Significant differences in the PR score were found in the state of vestibular compensation in the ROT test (P = .01), DHI (P = .04), and CLIN (P = .023). The vestibular compensation criteria that groups the original variables (PR‐CLUSTER) cutoff point was 55 (P = .019).

Conclusions

The PR score is a measure of temporal organization of the refixation saccades that enables us to distinguish clearly and objectively the vestibular situation of subjects with AUV. We suggest its clinical application.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2020
Limited diagnostic possibilities for bloodstream infections with broad‐range methods: A promising PCR/electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry platform is no longer available
Authors: Tkadlec Jan , Bebrova Eliska , Berousek Jan , Vymazal Tomas , Adamkova Jaroslava , Martinkova Vendula , Moser Claus , Florea Dragos , Drevinek Pavel
Published: February 2020

Fast and accurate detection of causative agents of bloodstream infections remains a challenge of today's microbiology. We compared the performance of cutting‐edge technology based on polymerase chain reaction coupled with electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry (PCR/ESI‐MS) with that of conventional broad‐range 16S rRNA PCR and blood culture to address the current diagnostic possibilities for bloodstream infections. Of 160 blood samples tested, PCR/ESI‐MS revealed clinically meaningful microbiological agents in 47 samples that were missed by conventional diagnostic approaches (29.4% of all analyzed samples). Notably, PCR/ESI‐MS shortened the time to positivity of the blood culture‐positive samples by an average of 34 hr. PCR/ESI‐MS technology substantially improved current diagnostic tools and represented an opportunity to make bloodstream infections diagnostics sensitive, accurate, and timely with a broad spectrum of microorganisms covered.
Compact 4‐bit GaAs Ku‐band core chips for phased arrays
Authors: Kim Dong‐Seok , Yeom Kyung‐Whan
Published: February 2020

In this letter, we present an Rx core chip and a Tx core chip for Ku‐band phased arrays, which are designed and fabricated using the commercial 0.25‐μm GaAs pHEMT foundry service. Each of the Rx core chip and the Tx core chip has a 4‐bit phase shifter driven by an on‐chip serial‐to‐parallel (SPC) converter. The on‐chip SPC provides the serial interface with an external controller. The Rx core chip shows a gain >10 dB, a noise figure less than 2 dB at a frequency range of 10.7 to 12.75 GHz and for all phase states of the 4‐bit Rx phase shifter. The Tx core chip shows a gain >10 dB, an output P1dB of about 13 dBm at a frequency range of 13.5 to 15.5 GHz and for all phase states of the 4‐bit Tx phase shifter. The Rx core chip and the Tx core chip have the same size of 1.75 × 1.75 mm2, which we believe the state of the art size among the presented GaAs core chips.
Modeling and analysis of contact failure in the time and frequency domains
Authors: Li Qingya , Gao Jinchun , Zhou Yuqi
Published: February 2020

In this article, theoretical modeling and simulations are introduced to explore the contact failure characteristics for connectors both in time and frequency domains. The equivalent models are developed to describe the impedance performances of un‐degraded and degraded connectors with the time domain and frequency domain, respectively. The experiments using a Network Analyzer for time and frequency domains analyses are conducted to verify the proposed models. The measured results agree well with the simulation results in the time and frequency domains.
Characterization of microMOSFET detectors for in vivo dosimetry in high‐dose‐rate brachytherapy with 192Ir
Authors: Ruiz‐Arrebola Samuel , Fabregat‐Borrás Rosa , Rodríguez Eduardo , Fernández‐Montes Manuel , Pérez‐Macho Mercedes , Ferri María , García Ana , Cardenal Juan , Pacheco María T. , Anchuelo Javier , Tornero‐López Ana M. , Prada Pedro J , Guirado Damián
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The objective of this study was to characterize the Best Medical Canada microMOSFET detectors for their application in in vivo dosimetry for high‐dose‐rate brachytherapy (HDRBT) with 192Ir. We also developed a mathematical model to correct dependencies under the measurement conditions of these detectors.

Methods

We analyzed the linearity, reproducibility, and interdetector variability and studied the microMOSFET response dependence on temperature, source‐detector distance, and angular orientation of the receptor with respect to the source. The correction model was applied to 19 measurements corresponding to five simulated treatments in a custom phantom specifically designed for this purpose.

Results

The detectors (high bias applied in all measurements) showed excellent linearity up to 160 Gy. The response dependence on source‐detector distance varied by (8.65 ± 0.06)% (k = 1) for distances between 1 and 7 cm, and the variation with temperature was (2.24 ± 0.05)% (k = 1) between 294 and 310 K. The response difference due to angular dependence can reach (10.3 ± 1.3)% (k = 1). For the set of measurements analyzed, regarding angular dependences, the mean difference between administered and measured doses was −4.17% (standard deviation of 3.4%); after application of the proposed correction model, the mean difference was −0.1% (standard deviation of 2.2%). For the treatments analyzed, the average difference between calculations and measures was 4.7% when only the calibration coefficient was used, but it is reduced to 0.9% when the correction model is applied.

Conclusion

Important response dependencies of microMOSFET detectors used for in vivo dosimetry in HDRBT treatments, especially the angular dependence, can be adequately characterized by a correction model that increases the accuracy of this system in clinical applications.
Is coexistent overactive–underactive bladder (with or without detrusor overactivity and underactivity) a real clinical syndrome? ICI‐RS 2019
Authors: Mancini Vito , Tarcan Tufan , Serati Maurizio , Wyndaele Michel , Carrieri Giuseppe , Abrams Paul
Published: February 2020

Aims

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) can be classified into symptom syndromes based on which symptoms are predominant. Overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome, a storage dysfunction, and underactive bladder (UAB) syndrome, a voiding dysfunction, are common syndromes, which urodynamic tests may show to be caused by detrusor overactivity (DO) and detrusor underactivity (DU), but can also be associated with other urethro‐vesical dysfunctions. Sometimes OAB and UAB can coexist in the same patient and, if so, need a specific approach beyond treatment of the single and apparently opposing syndromes.

Methods

During its 2019 meeting in Bristol, the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society held a literature review and expert consensus discussion focused on the emerging awareness of the coexisting overactive–underactive bladder (COUB).

Results

The consensus considered whether COUB is the combination of OAB and UAB syndromes, or a real unique clinical syndrome in the same patient, possibly with a common etiology. Definitions, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment were discussed, and high‐priority research questions were identified.

Conclusions

COUB (with or without urodynamic evidence of DO and DU) may be considered a real clinical syndrome, because it differs from single OAB and UAB, and may not be the combination of both syndromes. Urodynamic tests may be necessary in unclear cases or in cases not responding to initial treatment of the most troublesome symptoms. It is pivotal to define the evolution of the syndrome and the characteristic population, and to recognize predictive or phenotyping factors to develop a specific approach and adequate outcome measures.
Increased Visceral Adipose Tissue Without Weight Retention at 59 Weeks Postpartum
Authors: Janumala Isaiah , Toro‐Ramos Tatiana , Widen Elizabeth , Rosenn Barak , Crane Janet , Horowitz Michelle , Lin Susan , Gidwani Sonia , Paley Charles , Thornton John C. , Pi‐Sunyer F. Xavier , Gallagher Dympna
Published: February 2020

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether controlling maternal gestational weight gain (GWG) influences adipose tissue distribution at 1 year postpartum.

Methods

Women with overweight or obesity (n = 210, BMI ≥ 25 or ≥ 30) were randomized to a lifestyle intervention (LI) designed to control GWG or to usual obstetrical care (UC). Measures included anthropometry, whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging for visceral (VAT), intermuscular, and subcutaneous adipose tissue, and cardiometabolic risk factors in pregnancy (15 and 35 weeks) and after delivery (15 and 59 weeks).

Results

Baseline (15 weeks) characteristics were similar (mean [SD]: age, 33.8 [4.3] years; weight, 81.9 [13.7] kg; BMI, 30.4 [4.5]; gestational age at randomization, 14.9 [0.8] weeks). LI had less GWG (1.79 kg; P = 0.003) and subcutaneous adipose tissue gain at 35 weeks gestation (P < 0.01). UC postpartum weight (2.92 kg) was higher at 15 weeks but not different from baseline or LI at 59 weeks postpartum. Postpartum VAT increased from baseline in LI by 0.23 kg at 15 weeks and 0.55 kg at 59 weeks; in UC, it increased by 0.34 kg at 15 and 59 weeks. Intermuscular adipose tissue remained elevated in LI (0.22 kg) at 59 weeks. VAT was associated with several cardiometabolic risk factors at 59 weeks.

Conclusions

Despite no weight retention at 59 weeks postpartum, women had increased VAT by ~30%. Postpartum modifiable behaviors are warranted to lower the risk of VAT retention.
Convergence science in the Anthropocene: Navigating the known and unknown
Authors: Angeler David G. , Allen Craig R. , Carnaval Ana
Published: February 2020

Rapidly changing ecological and social systems currently pose significant societal challenges. Navigating the complexity of social‐ecological change requires approaches able to cope with, and potentially solve, both foreseen and unforeseen societal challenges.

The emergent field of convergence addresses the intricacies of such challenges, and is thus relevant to a broad range of interdisciplinary issues.

This paper suggests a way to conceptualize convergence research. It discusses how it relates to two major societal challenges (adaptation, transformation), and to the generation of policy‐relevant science. It also points out limitations to the further development of convergence research.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Design and synthesis of fluorescent shell functionalized polymer micelles for biomedical application
Authors: Ismail Selen R. , Bryaskova Rayna G. , Georgiev Nikolai I. , Philipova Nikoleta D. , Bakov Ventsislav V. , Uzunova Veselina P. , Tzoneva Rumiana D. , Bojinov Vladimir B.
Published: February 2020

pH‐sensitive polymers can be defined as polyelectrolytes that include in their structure weak acidic or basic groups that either accept or release protons in response to a change in the environmental pH. This work summarizes the design, synthesis, and potential applications of pH‐responsive fluorescent copolymers in the biomedical field. This was achieved using atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of tert‐butyl acrylate using a CuBr/N,N,N′,N″N″‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine catalyst system in conjunction with an alkyl bromide as the initiator. Well‐defined macroinitiators based on poly(tert‐butyl acrylate) with narrow molecular weight distributions were obtained by the addition of an appropriate solvent system in order to create a homogeneous catalytic system. The addition of n‐butyl acrylate as a second building block in order to create well‐defined poly(tert‐butyl acrylate)‐b‐poly(n‐butyl acrylate) block copolymers (PtBA‐b‐PnBA) followed by chemical modification of the block copolymers and functionalization with an appropriate fluorescent compound are the basis for the preparation of well‐defined fluorescent pH‐sensitive micelles. Thus, prepared water soluble nanosized pH‐sensitive micelles consisting of hydrophobic poly(n‐butyl acrylate) core and hydrophilic polyacrylic acid shell decorated with an appropriate fluorescent compound determined their potential applications of these systems in the field of biomedicine as biosensors, controlled drug delivery systems, and so on. In this respect, the cell viability and internalization of the polymer micelles were studied.
Influence of the effect of different electrolytes on the interaction of promethazine hydrochloride drug with tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide at different temperatures
Authors: Amin Md. Ruhul , Alissa Siham A. , Molla Mohammad Robel , Rub Malik Abdul , Wabaidur Saikh Mohammad , Hoque Md. Anamul , Kabir Shariff E.
Published: February 2020

Investigation of the interaction of promethazine hydrochloride (PMH) with tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide (TTAB) in attendance/nonattendance of different electrolytes (KCl and K2SO4) has been conducted by conductivity technique at different temperatures with an interval of 5.0 K. In this work, a single critical micelle concentration (CMC) was observed for the PMH + TTAB mixed system with/without electrolytes. In the occurrence of the drug (PMH), the values of CMC for surfactant (TTAB) are lower in magnitude in comparison with TTAB in water. In attendance of various electrolytes (KCl and K2SO4), the obtained CMC values for TTAB + PMH mixtures were lower in magnitude compared with their nonattendance. It indicates the favorable micellization of TTAB + PMH mixture, and the presence of electrolytes supported the earlier micellization. The obtained values of ΔG0m are negative, which indicates the spontaneous aggregation process. Different other physicochemical parameters like enthalpy change (ΔH0m), entropy change (ΔS0m), transfer energy (ΔG0m.tr), transfer enthalpy (ΔH0m.tr), and transfer entropy (ΔS0m.tr) were also calculated as well as explained thoroughly. The molar heat capacity (ΔC0m), the compensation temperature (Tc), and the intrinsic enthalpy gain (ΔH0*m) were also evaluated as well as explained.
The Boundaries of KKLT
Authors: Randall Lisa
Published: February 2020

We consider the conundrum of generating de Sitter space from higher‐dimensional geometry, with particular attention to KKLT‐type constructions[3] and their 5d implications. We show that even in the probe approximation with small , a consistent higher‐dimensional solution requires a deformation of a modulus field playing the role of a Goldberger‐Wise stabilizing field in Randall‐Sundrum type geometries that occurs through a shift in a the throat length. We identify the light radion field that sets the length of the throat, whose origin is the dynamical conifold deformation parameter. By analyzing the theory as a 5d model of mismatched branes in AdS5 space with a GW stabilization mechanism, we show how energy (and supersymmetry breaking) is transferred to both the IR and UV regions of the throat to generate a consistent 4d de Sitter sliced geometry. This should help resolve some of the recent apparent paradoxes in explicit higher‐dimensional constructions. Moreover, the radion gives insight into the potential for the previously identified “conifold instability”. We argue that this instability would be a destabilization of the potential for the radion in KKLT, which can occur when the perturbation is too large. If indeed is too small, the radion would enter on its runaway direction and the conifold deformation would shrink to zero size. It is difficult to satisfy the required bound and a) maintain a hierarchy in the simpler CY manifolds and b) complete the cosmological phase transition into the stabilized throat, We also discuss the implications of this type of setup for supersymmetry breaking, and how multiple throats can introduce hierarchies of supersymmetry breaking masses, even in an anomaly‐mediated scenario. In an appendix we consider general compactification constraints.
Omalizumab as add‐on therapy in a patient with severe asthma and OSA
Authors: Scioscia Giulia , Buonamico Enrico , Foschino Barbaro Maria Pia , Lacedonia Donato , Sabato Roberto , Carpagnano Giovanna Elisiana
Published: February 2020

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) syndrome, the most frequent sleep‐disordered breathing, is a comorbidity of asthma, whose prevalence covers about 49.5% of asthmatic adult patients. A 61‐year‐old female patient, affected by severe allergic asthma and obesity, started treatment with omalizumab and underwent polysomnography showing a severe OSA pattern (apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI): 72.7). After six months, she showed functional improvement and good asthma symptoms control and underwent a new polygraphy for the persistence of the night symptoms which showed an ameliorated, despite still severe, OSA pattern (AHI: 31.9). The patient obtained complete polygraphic normalization after adequate positive airway pressure (PAP) titration. While bronchodilator efficacy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)/OSA overlap syndrome has been proven in raising nocturnal oxygen saturation, there is no such evidence about biological therapy in patients affected by severe asthma and OSA. This is the first documented case report that demonstrates a possible role of omalizumab in improving the OSA pattern in a patient affected by severe asthma and OSA.
Water exchange in a large river–lake system: Modeling, characteristics and causes
Authors: Zhang Peipei , Mao Jingqiao , Hu Tengfei , Dai Lingquan , Xu Diandian , Dai Huichao
Published: February 2020

River–lake water exchange reflects hydrological connectivity and the dynamic relationship between the river and the lake. The water exchange is crucial for lake level variation, downstream river discharge and the ecosystem. To figure out the water exchange between the Yangtze River and Poyang Lake, a data‐driven model was established based on the support vector regression and genetic algorithm technique. Nine scenarios were set with different river–lake hydrological conditions, divided into two categories: single‐element change scenarios, where only the river conditions or only the lake conditions changed, and combined scenarios, where both elements changed simultaneously. The model could accurately simulate the river–lake water exchange variations. Scenario simulation results show that increasing the river flow or lowering the lake level could cause a decrease in the lake outflow. Conversely, decreasing river flow or raising the lake level could cause an increase in lake outflow. Changing lake conditions have a stronger impact on the water exchange variation than changing river conditions if the change percentages of the situation indicator values are the same. Similarly, lake level increase has a stronger impact on the water exchange variation than lake level decrease. The combined scenarios indicate the additive effect of the corresponding single‐element change scenarios, with a clear linear relationship between their lake outflow changes. This study provides an efficient model for simulating complex hydrological flow relationships in river–lake systems, and supports the management of the Yangtze River and Poyang Lake by providing the characteristics and causes of the river–lake water exchange.
Partner with campus disability services office to educate students about available support
Authors: Hamblet Elizabeth C.
Published: February 2020

Research shows many students who received disability accommodations in high school do not register for them in college. Their reasons include not knowing accommodations are available or where to go to register, and a sense of stigma. To help bridge the knowledge gap and make prospective students feel comfortable, partner with your institution's disability services office. Educating prospective students can help you recruit them, and their use of services could help you retain them once they enroll.
Cholesterol interaction motifs in G protein‐coupled receptors: Slippery hot spots?
Authors: Sarkar Parijat , Chattopadhyay Amitabha
Published: February 2020

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) are cell membrane associated signaling hubs that orchestrate a multitude of cellular functions upon binding to a diverse variety of extracellular ligands. Since GPCRs are integral membrane proteins with seven‐transmembrane domain architecture, their function, organization and dynamics are intimately regulated by membrane lipids, such as cholesterol. Cholesterol is an extensively studied lipids in terms of its effects on GPCR structure and function. One of the possible mechanisms underlying modulation of GPCR function by cholesterol is via specific interaction of GPCRs with membrane cholesterol. These interactions of GPCRs with membrane cholesterol are often attributed to structural features of GPCRs that could facilitate their preferential association with cholesterol. In this backdrop, cholesterol interaction motifs represent putative interaction sites on GPCRs that could facilitate cholesterol‐sensitive function of these receptors. In this review, we provide an overview of cholesterol interaction motifs found in GPCRs, which have been identified through a combination of crystallography, bioinformatics analysis, and functional studies. In addition, we will highlight, using specific examples, why mere presence of a cholesterol interaction motif at a given site may not directly implicate its role in interaction with membrane cholesterol. We therefore believe that experimental approaches, followed by functional analysis of cholesterol sensitivity of GPCRs, would provide a better understanding of the role played by these motifs in cholesterol‐sensitive function. We envision that a comprehensive knowledge of cholesterol interaction sites in GPCRs would allow us to develop a better understanding of GPCR structure‐function paradigm, and could be useful in future therapeutics.

This article is categorized under:

Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Mechanistic Models

Analytical and Computational Methods > Computational Methods

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Macromolecular Interactions, Methods
Analysis and control of shear flow over a rotating plate in the presence of magnetic field
Authors: Reza Motahar , Raja Sekhar G. P.
Published: February 2020

Shear flow of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting fluid past a uniformly rotating infinite impermeable flat plate in the presence of transverse magnetic field is investigated. The flow is assumed to be governed by Navier‐Stokes equations augmented with an applied magnetic field. Solutions of the corresponding equations are analyzed. It is noted that due to shear flow over a rotating plate, the problem has no axisymmetric solutions. But it is interesting to note that this problem has no unique solution for the secondary velocity components. It is remarkable to note that Navier‐Stokes equations for this problem admit a one parameter family of solutions. Inside the boundary layer, the momentum transfer of the outer shear flow is dominated by the pressure gradient. The secondary velocity component along x‐axis is a linear combination of velocity due to shear and translation. However, it is noted that the contribution from the shear dominates. It is observed that the primary and secondary velocity components can be controlled by the applied magnetic field. It is also found that the torque exerted by the fluid on the plate is influenced by the applied magnetic field but independent of the shear in the external flow.
A note on Faddeev-Popov action for doubled-yet-gauged particle and graded Poisson geometry
Authors: Basile Thomas , Joung Euihun , Park Jeong-Hyuck
Published: February 2020

Abstract

The section condition of Double Field Theory has been argued to mean that doubled coordinates are gauged: a gauge orbit represents a single physical point. In this note, we consider a doubled and at the same time gauged particle action, and show that its BRST formulation including Faddeev-Popov ghosts matches with the graded Poisson geometry that has been recently used to describe the symmetries of Double Field Theory. Besides, by requiring target spacetime diffeomorphisms at the quantum level, we derive quantum corrections to the classical action involving dilaton, which might be comparable with the Fradkin-Tseytlin term on string worldsheet.
The holographic dual of strongly γ-deformed $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM theory: derivation, generalization, integrability and discrete reparametrization symmetry
Authors: Gromov Nikolay , Sever Amit
Published: February 2020

Abstract

Recently, we constructed the first-principle derivation of the holographic dual of planar $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM in the double-scaled γ-deformed limit directly from the CFT side. The dual fishchain model is a novel integrable chain of particles in AdS5. It can be viewed as a discretized string and revives earlier string-bit approaches. The original derivation was restricted to the operators built out of one of two types of scalar fields. In this paper, we extend our results to the general operators having any number of scalars of both types, except for a very special case when their numbers are equal. Interestingly, the extended model reveals a new discrete reparametrization symmetry of the “world-sheet”, preserving all integrals of motion. We use integrability to formulate a closed system of equations, which allows us to solve for the spectrum of the model in full generality, and present non-perturbative numerical results. We show that our results are in agreement with the Asymptotic Bethe Ansatz of the fishnet model up to the wrapping order at weak coupling.
SYK correlators for all energies
Authors: Streicher Alexandre
Published: February 2020

Abstract

The Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev (SYK) model, a theory ofNMajorana fermions withq-body interactions (a.k.a.q-local), becomes in the largeqlimit a conformally-broken Liouville field theory. Taking this limit preserves many interesting properties of the model, yet makes the theory as a whole much more tractable. Accordingly, we produce novel expressions for the two and four-point correlators at arbitrary temperature and find the surprising result they take a universal closed form. We note that these expressions correctly match onto and interpolate between previously-obtained low-energy results and simple high-energy perturbative checks. We find that the time-ordered four-point correlators are always determined by finite temperature OPEs into the identity and Hamiltonian, while the out-of-time-order four-point correlators remain nontrivial and always scramble. This has only been established in the conformal limit, so to find that it holds for largeqat all temperatures/couplings is a nontrivial result. Finally, we determine the system’s thermalization and scrambling rates and find that they always agree, regardless of temperature. This adds to the increasing body of evidence that there exists simple underlying structures in the dynamics ofq-local systems, such as those formed by SYK’s epidemic operator growth.
Synaptic mitochondrial dysfunction and septin accumulation are linked to complement-mediated synapse loss in an Alzheimer’s disease animal model
Authors: Györffy Balázs A. , Tóth Vilmos , Török György , Gulyássy Péter , Kovács Réka Á. , Vadászi Henrietta , Micsonai András , Tóth Melinda E. , Sántha Miklós , Homolya László , Drahos László , Juhász Gábor , Kékesi Katalin A. , Kardos József
Published: February 2020

Synaptic functional disturbances with concomitant synapse loss represent central pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. Excessive accumulation of cytotoxic amyloid oligomers is widely recognized as a key event that underlies neurodegeneration. Certain complement components are crucial instruments of widespread synapse loss because they can tag synapses with functional impairments leading to their engulfment by microglia. However, an exact understanding of the affected synaptic functions that predispose to complement-mediated synapse elimination is lacking. Therefore, we conducted systematic proteomic examinations on synaptosomes prepared from an amyloidogenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease (APP/PS1). Synaptic fractions were separated according to the presence of the C1q-tag using fluorescence-activated synaptosome sorting and subjected to proteomic comparisons. The results raised the decline of mitochondrial functions in the C1q-tagged synapses of APP/PS1 mice based on enrichment analyses, which was verified using flow cytometry. Additionally, proteomics results revealed extensive alterations in the level of septin protein family members, which are known to dynamically form highly organized pre- and postsynaptic supramolecular structures, thereby affecting synaptic transmission. High-resolution microscopy investigations demonstrated that synapses with considerable amounts of septin-3 and septin-5 show increased accumulation of C1q in APP/PS1 mice compared to the wild-type ones. Moreover, a strong positive correlation was apparent between synaptic septin-3 levels and C1q deposition as revealed via flow cytometry and confocal microscopy examinations. In sum, our results imply that deterioration of synaptic mitochondrial functions and alterations in the organization of synaptic septins are associated with complement-dependent synapse loss in Alzheimer’s disease.
Nectar preferences in male bumblebees
Authors: Brown M. , Brown M. J. F.
Published: February 2020

Social insect males are relatively understudied, but knowledge of their biology is increasingly important for conservation of declining groups. Bumblebees are important pollinators in temperate, sub-arctic, and Alpine regions, but many species are in decline across the globe. Agri-environment schemes have been designed to support female bumblebees, but free-living males may also need support. Male bumblebees have an energetically expensive lifestyle, and so understanding their foraging choices may provide a first step towards designing interventions to support them in the wild. Using a series of controlled laboratory choice experiments, we demonstrate that males prefer sugar concentrations of between 50 and 60% when under either simple (binary) or complex (octanary) choice conditions when presented with a broad range of sugar concentrations. When presented with concentrations within this preferred range, males exhibit a clear preference for sugar solutions of 56% w/w sucrose when solutions differ by 4%. These results suggest that males maximise their rate of energy intake, as predicted by theoretical models, rather than minimise their water consumption. In the future, male preferences for high sugar concentrations can be combined with knowledge of baseline nectar concentrations and flower phenology to maximise the value of conservation interventions for this neglected sex.
Spirituelle Bedürfnisse von Patienten eines Notfallzentrums
Authors: Frick E. , Büssing A. , Rodrigues Recchia D. , Härtl K. , Beivers A. , Wapler C. , Dodt C.
Published: February 2020

Hintergrund

Spirituelle Bedürfnisse (spB) sind von einer religiösen Gebundenheit prinzipiell unabhängige wichtige Elemente des menschlichen Wesens. Sie können in Belastungssituationen, die z. B. durch das akute Auftreten einer Erkrankung ausgelöst werden, eine Ressource zur Bewältigung der Situation sein. Notaufnahmen sind Bereiche des Krankenhauses mit hoher medizinischer Leistungsdichte, was für Notfallpatienten eine besondere Unsicherheit hervorruft. Die vorliegende Studie untersucht erstmals das Vorliegen spiritueller Bedürfnisse eines Kollektivs von Patienten eines Notfallzentrums.

Methoden

Insgesamt 383 von 479 kontaktierten Patienten füllten die deutschsprachige Version des Spiritual Needs Questionnaire (SpNQ-20) aus und stimmten der Erhebung demographischer und klinischer Daten zu. Die Auswertung umfasste deskriptive Statistiken, Korrelationsanalysen, univariate sowie multiple Varianzanalysen.

Ergebnisse

Bedürfnisse nach innerem Frieden und generative Bedürfnisse (etwas weitergeben, etwas für andere tun) waren stärker ausgeprägt als religiöse (rB) und existenzielle (eB) Bedürfnisse. Es fanden sich keine Zusammenhänge zwischen spB einerseits und Grund der Konsultation, Schweregrad und Anzahl der Komorbiditäten andererseits. Das Alter spielte keine ausschlaggebende Rolle; vielmehr waren die vorhandenen Bedürfnisse, insbesondere die rB, bei Frauen signifikant stärker ausgeprägt als bei Männern.

Schlussfolgerung

Auch in einer Notfallsituation sind Menschen bereit, ihre spirituellen Bedürfnisse zu äußern. Die frühzeitige Erhebung in einer Notaufnahme erfasst auch nichtmedizinische wichtige Aspekte des kranken Menschen und erlaubt die Berücksichtigung der erfassten Bedürfnisse. Ob das auf den weiteren Behandlungsverlauf und das Wohlbefinden der Patienten einen Einfluss hat, müssen weitere Studien klären.
Personen mit Migrationshintergrund in der NAKO Gesundheitsstudie – soziodemografische Merkmale und Vergleiche mit der autochthonen deutschen Bevölkerung
Authors: Wiessner Christian , Keil Thomas , Krist Lilian , Zeeb Hajo , Dragano Nico , Schmidt Börge , Ahrens Wolfgang , Berger Klaus , Castell Stefanie , Fricke Julia , Führer Amand , Gastell Sylvia , Greiser Halina , Guo Feng , Jaeschke Lina , Jochem Carmen , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Kaaks Rudolf , Koch-Gallenkamp Lena , Krause Gérard , Kuss Oliver , Legath Nicole , Leitzmann Michael , Lieb Wolfgang , Meinke-Franze Claudia , Meisinger Christa , Mikolajczyk Rafael , Obi Nadia , Pischon Tobias , Schipf Sabine , Schmoor Claudia , Schramm Sara , Schulze Matthias B. , Sowarka Nicole , Waniek Sabina , Wigmann Claudia , Willich Stefan N. , Becher Heiko
Published: February 2020

Hintergrund

Personen mit Migrationshintergrund (PmM) unterscheiden sich als Bevölkerungsgruppe hinsichtlich Morbidität, Mortalität und Inanspruchnahme des Gesundheitssystems meist von der autochthonen Bevölkerung, sie nehmen jedoch seltener an Gesundheitsstudien teil. Die Gruppe der PmM ist sehr heterogen, was in Studien bisher kaum berücksichtigt wird.

Ziel der Arbeit

Es werden soziodemografische Charakteristika der PmM in der NAKO Gesundheitsstudie (Alter, Geschlecht, Zeit seit Migration, Bildung) dargestellt. Zudem wird exemplarisch untersucht, ob der Migrationshintergrund mit der Nutzung des Angebots zur Früherkennung von Darmkrebs (Hämoccult-Test) zusammenhängt.

Methoden

Daten der ersten 101.816 Teilnehmenden der NAKO wurden deskriptiv und kartografisch ausgewertet. Die Zuweisung des Migrationshintergrunds erfolgte anhand der Definition des Statistischen Bundesamts und basiert auf Staatsangehörigkeit, Geburtsland, Einreisejahr und Geburtsland der Eltern.

Ergebnisse

Der Anteil der PmM liegt bei 16,0 %. Die Verteilung über die 18 Studienzentren variiert zwischen 6 % (Neubrandenburg) und 33 % (Düsseldorf). Mit 153 Herkunftsländern sind in der NAKO die meisten Länder vertreten. Bei allen Variablen zeigen sich deutliche Unterschiede zwischen den verschiedenen Herkunftsregionen. Am Hämoccult-Test nehmen türkeistämmige Personen (OR = 0,67) und Aussiedler aus der ehemaligen Sowjetunion (OR = 0,60) seltener teil. PmM, die in Deutschland geboren sind, unterscheiden sich diesbezüglich nicht von der autochthonen Bevölkerung (OR = 0,99).

Diskussion

PmM in der NAKO sind eine sehr heterogene Gruppe. Jedoch lassen sich aufgrund der Stichprobengröße einzelne Untergruppen der PmM hinsichtlich ihrer Herkunftsregion separat untersuchen.
Influence of cardiac autonomic neuropathy on cardiac repolarisation during incremental adrenaline infusion in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Bernjak Alan , Chow Elaine , Robinson Emma J. , Freeman Jenny , Marques Jefferson L. B. , Macdonald Ian A. , Sheridan Paul J. , Heller Simon R.
Published: February 2020

Aims/hypothesis

We examined the effect of a standardised sympathetic stimulus, incremental adrenaline (epinephrine) infusion on cardiac repolarisation in individuals with type 1 diabetes with normal autonomic function, subclinical autonomic neuropathy and established autonomic neuropathy.

Methods

Ten individuals with normal autonomic function and baroreceptor sensitivity tests (NAF), seven with subclinical autonomic neuropathy (SAN; normal standard autonomic function tests and abnormal baroreceptor sensitivity tests); and five with established cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN; abnormal standard autonomic function and baroreceptor tests) underwent an incremental adrenaline infusion. Saline (0.9% NaCl) was infused for the first hour followed by 0.01 μg kg−1 min−1 and 0.03 μg kg−1 min−1 adrenaline for the second and third hours, respectively, and 0.06 μg kg−1 min−1 for the final 30 min. High resolution ECG monitoring for QTc duration, ventricular repolarisation parameters (T wave amplitude, T wave area symmetry ratio) and blood sampling for potassium and catecholamines was performed every 30 min.

Results

Baseline heart rate was 68 (95% CI 60, 76) bpm for the NAF group, 73 (59, 87) bpm for the SAN group and 84 (78, 91) bpm for the CAN group. During adrenaline infusion the heart rate increased differently across the groups (p = 0.01). The maximum increase from baseline (95% CI) in the CAN group was 22 (13, 32) bpm compared with 11 (7, 15) bpm in the NAF and 10 (3, 18) bpm in the SAN groups. Baseline QTc was 382 (95% CI 374, 390) ms in the NAF, 378 (363, 393) ms in the SAN and 392 (367, 417) ms in the CAN groups (p = 0.31). QTc in all groups lengthened comparably with adrenaline infusion. The longest QTc was 444 (422, 463) ms (NAF), 422 (402, 437) ms (SAN) and 470 (402, 519) ms (CAN) (p = 0.09). T wave amplitude and T wave symmetry ratio decreased and the maximum decrease occurred earlier, at lower infused adrenaline concentrations in the CAN group compared with NAF and SAN groups. AUC for the symmetry ratio was different across the groups and was lowest in the CAN group (p = 0.04). Plasma adrenaline rose and potassium fell comparably in all groups.

Conclusions/interpretation

Participants with CAN showed abnormal repolarisation in some measures at lower adrenaline concentrations. This may be due to denervation adrenergic hypersensitivity. Such individuals may be at greater risk of cardiac arrhythmias in response to physiological sympathoadrenal challenges such as stress or hypoglycaemia.
Versorgungsrelevante Daten einer interdisziplinären Sprechstunde für endokrine Orbitopathie
Authors: Ponto Katharina A. , v. d. Osten-Sacken Sara , Elflein Heike , Koutsimpelas Dimitrios , Pfeiffer Norbert , Kahaly George J.
Published: February 2020

Hintergrund

Die endokrine Orbitopathie (EO) geht mit funktionellen Einschränkungen und einer ästhetischen Belastung einher. Ziel der Arbeit war die Untersuchung der Versorgungssituation von Patienten mit EO an einem interdisziplinären Schwerpunktzentrum.

Material und Methoden

Retrospektive Auswertung der interdisziplinären Daten hinsichtlich des klinischen Spektrums, des Versorgungsradius und der Fachrichtung zuweisender Ärzte.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt wurden die Daten von 431 Patienten mit EO (Frauen: n =354, 82 %; Alter [Median]: 40 Jahre; Bereich: 5–79) ausgewertet. 148 (35 %) Patienten wurden vom Hausarzt und 123 (29 %) Patienten vom Augenarzt überwiesen. Eine Optikusneuropathie bestand bei 11 (14,3 %) Männern und bei 21 (5,9 %) Frauen (p =0,011). Zusätzlich zur Schilddrüsenerkrankung bestanden mindestens 2 andere Autoimmunerkrankungen bei 8 (10,4 %) Männern und bei 15 (4,3 %) Frauen (p =0,079).

Zwei (2,6 %) Männer und 92 (26 %) Frauen nahmen psychotherapeutische Unterstützung in Anspruch (p <0,001). Anfahrtswege von 50 km oder mehr nahmen 14 (28 %) Männer und 83 (43 %) Frauen mit EO in Kauf (p =0,054). Es bestand eine Assoziation einer Anfahrtsstrecke ≥50 km mit dem Bestehen weiterer Autoimmunerkrankungen (OR: 1,86; 95 %-Konfidenzintervall [KI]: 1,02–3,39; p =0,044). Im Trend litten diese Patienten wahrscheinlicher an einer moderat-schweren oder einer sehkraftgefährdenden (1,78, 0,91–3,47; p =0,090) EO. Patienten, die einen Anfahrtsweg ≥100 km hatten, waren eher konservativ vorbehandelt (3,78, 1,18–12,05; p =0,025).

Schlussfolgerungen

Männer sind im Durchschnitt schwerer von der EO betroffen, haben häufig weitere Autoimmunerkrankungen. Gleichzeitig sind sie der Versorgung schwerer zugänglich. Besonders Patienten mit weiteren Autoimmunerkrankungen nehmen weite Anfahrtsstrecken an ein spezialisiertes Zentrum in Kauf.
Universal tail profile of Gaussian multiplicative chaos
Authors: Wong Mo Dick
Published: February 2020

In this article we study the tail probability of the mass of Gaussian multiplicative chaos. With the novel use of a Tauberian argument and Goldie’s implicit renewal theorem, we provide a unified approach to general log-correlated Gaussian fields in arbitrary dimension and derive precise first order asymptotics of the tail probability, resolving a conjecture of Rhodes and Vargas. The leading order is described by a universal constant that captures the generic property of Gaussian multiplicative chaos, and may be seen as the analogue of the Liouville unit volume reflection coefficients in higher dimensions.
Treating Vaginal Laxity Using Nonablative Er:YAG Laser: A Retrospective Case Series of Patients From 2.5 Years of Clinical Practice
Authors: Mitsuyuki Midori , Štok Ula , Hreljac Irena , Yoda Kikue , Vižintin Zdenko
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Vaginal laxity drastically impairs women’s quality of life, suggesting there is a need for effective noninvasive treatments.

Aim

The aim was to retrospectively assess the effectiveness and safety of a nonablative Er:YAG IntimaLase laser procedure for vaginal laxity in patients treated in our clinical practice during a 2.5-year period.

Methods

Laser treatment for vaginal laxity was performed using an intravaginal nonablative Er:YAG laser. Effectiveness was assessed using a Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire and also by independent evaluation of before and after treatment photographs of the patients’ introitus. The safety and tolerability of the procedure was monitored in all patients.

Main Outcome Measure

The study showed an improvement of sexual gratification and improvement of vaginal tightness, as assessed by patients. The tightness of the introitus was also improved, as assessed by independent evaluators.

Results

As assessed by the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire, we show that 92.7% of patients experienced improvement of sexual gratification after IntimaLase laser treatment. The results of the visual evaluation of the grade of laxity improvement in the introitus area, when open introitus photos were evaluated, show that 69% (n = 20/29) of patients had an improvement of laxity. Nonablative Er:YAG treatment seems to be an effective and safe treatment for vaginal laxity. As it is a noninvasive procedure, it should be considered before any vaginoplasty surgery. The study included all the patients treated in clinical practice and observed very few adverse effects. The results were comparable with other published data. Because it is a retrospective study, there is a lack of a control group.

Conclusion

The results have confirmed that patients suffering from vaginal laxity can be effectively treated using the nonablative Er:YAG IntimaLase procedure without adverse effects.
Macroeconomic and distributional effects of demographic change in an open economy—the case of Belgium
Authors: Devriendt Willem , Heylen Freddy
Published: February 2020

We construct and parameterize an overlapping generations model for an open economy with individuals who differ in innate ability. Key endogenous variables are hours worked, investment in human and physical capital, and per capita growth. The model replicates important data in Belgium since 1960 remarkably well. Simulating it, we observe that behavioral adjustments by households and firms contribute to reverse the negative arithmetical effect of future demographic change on per capita growth. Individuals work and study more. However, with unchanged policies, there remains a net negative effect on annual per capita growth of almost 0.3%-points on average in the next 25 years. This is mainly due to adverse consequences of reduced fertility and a declining working-age population on (the return to) physical capital investment. Model projections also point to rising income inequality induced by demographic change. Differences in the capacity of individuals to respond to increasing life expectancy by investing in education, and by saving, are key.
SPECULATIVE FICTION, ECOCRITICISM, AND THE WANDERINGS OF ODYSSEUS
Authors: Cooper Samuel
Published: February 2020

While it is dangerous to generalize about so vast a field as Homeric scholarship, it is perhaps safe to say that before the 1970s interpretation of the Wanderings of Odysseus was dominated by the larger question of theOdyssey’s moral and theological coherence, particularly as this pertains to the justice of Odysseus’ and his companions’ sufferings. The controversy between Analysts and Unitarians did much to determine how this question was asked and answered, with Analysts viewing moral incoherence as a symptom of multiple authorship and Unitarians striving to demonstrate coherence. First-generation anthropology introduced the idea that incoherence might reflect not (only) different authors, but (also) different stages of cultural development. This development was conceived mainly as an advance from primitive ‘savagery’ to more enlightened ‘humanity’, albeit with a tinge of nostalgia for savagery's more holistic ecological consciousness.
‘THE AFTERMATH EXPERIENCED BEFORE’: AESCHYLEAN UNTIMELINESS AND IRIS MURDOCH'S DEFENCE OF ART
Authors: Umachandran Mathura
Published: February 2020

This year marks the centenary of the birth of Iris Murdoch (1919–99). She has been celebrated as one of Britain's most important postwar writers with twenty-six prose fiction novels to her name. Murdoch was also an ancient philosopher who was primarily interested in issues of moral philosophy. Pinning down her place in the Anglo-American analytic tradition of philosophy, however, is not a straightforward task. On the one hand she cut a conventional figure, holding a tutorial fellowship at St Anne's College, Oxford, from 1948 to 1963. On the other hand, her philosophical writing increasingly departed from the coordinates of analytical philosophy. As Martha Nussbaum notes in her deeply ambivalent review of Murdoch'sThe Fire and the Sun: Why Plato Banished the Artists, Murdoch is ‘a novelist whose best work is deeply philosophical, a philosopher who has stressed…the special role that beauty can play in motivating us to know the good, …a Platonist believer in human perfectability, and an artist.’ Nussbaum points us towards understanding two key elements in Murdoch's thought: her commitment to Plato and the manner in which Murdoch's activity as philosopher and novelist should be considered as interdependent.