bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic analysis highlights cochlear inflammation associated with age-related hearing loss in C57BL/6 mice using next generation sequencing
Authors: Su Zhongwu , Xiong Hao , Liu Yi , Pang Jiaqi , Lin Hanqing , Zhang Weijian , Zheng Yiqing
Published: August 2020

Background

In our aging society, age-related hearing loss (AHL) is the most common sensory disorder in old people. Much progress has been made in understanding the pathological process of AHL over the past few decades. However, the mechanism of cochlear degeneration during aging is still not fully understood.

Methods

Next generation sequencing technique was used to sequence the whole transcriptome of the cochlea of C57BL/6 mice, a mouse model of AHL. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using the Cuffdiff software. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses of the DEGs were implemented by using the GOseq R package and KOBAS software, respectively.

Results

A total of 731 genes (379 up- and 352 down-regulated) were revealed to be differentially expressed in the cochlea of aged mice compared to the young. Many genes associated with aging, apoptosis, necroptosis and particularly, inflammation were identified as being significantly modulated in the aged cochlea. GO and KEGG analyses of the upregulated DEGs revealed that the most enriched terms were associated with immune responses and inflammatory pathways, whereas many of the downregulated genes are involved in ion channel function and neuronal signaling. Real-time qPCR showed that H2O2 treatment significantly induced the expression of multiple inflammation and necroptosis-related genes in HEI-OC1 cells.

Conclusion

Using next generation sequencing, our transcriptomic analysis revealed the differences of gene expression pattern with age in the cochlea of C57BL/6 mice. Our study also revealed multiple immune and inflammatory transcriptomic changes during cochlear aging and provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cochlear inflammation in AHL.
Six complete mitochondrial genomes of mayflies from three genera of Ephemerellidae (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) with inversion and translocation oftrnIrearrangement and their phylogenetic relationships
Authors: Xu Xiao-Dong , Jia Yi-Yang , Cao Si-Si , Zhang Zi-Yi , Storey Kenneth B. , Yu Dan-Na , Zhang Jia-Yong
Published: August 2020

As a small order of Pterygota (Insecta), Ephemeroptera has almost 3,500 species around the world. Ephemerellidae is a widely distributed common group of Ephemeroptera. However, the relationship among Ephemerellidae, Vietnamellidae and Teloganellidae is still in dispute. In this study, we sequenced six complete mitogenomes of three genera from Ephemerellidae (Insecta: Ephemeroptera):Ephemerellasp. Yunnan-2018,Serratella zapekinae,Serratellasp. Yunnan-2018,Serratellasp. Liaoning-2019,Torleya grandipennisandT. tumiforceps. These mitogenomes were employed to reveal controversial phylogenetic relationships among the Ephemeroptera, with emphasis on the phylogenetic relationships among Ephemerellidae. The lengths of the six mayfly mitogenomes ranged from 15,134 bp to 15,703 bp. Four mitogenomes ofEphemerellasp. Yunnan-2018,Serratella zapekinae,Serratellasp. Yunnan-2018 andSerratellasp. Liaoning-2019 had 22 tRNAs including an inversion and translocation oftrnI. By contrast, the mitogenomes ofT. tumiforcepsandT. grandipennishad 24 tRNAs due to an extra two copies of inversion and translocation oftrnI. Within the family Ephemerellidae, disparate gene rearrangement occurred in the mitogenomes of different genera: one copy of inversion and translocationtrnIin the generaEphemerellaandSerratella, and three repeat copies of inversion and translocation oftrnIin the genusTorleya. A large non-coding region (≥200 bp) betweentrnS1(AGN) andtrnEwas detected inT. grandipennisandT. tumiforceps. Among the phylogenetic relationship of the Ephemeroptera, the monophyly of almost all families except Siphlonuridae was supported by BI and ML analyses. The phylogenetic results indicated that Ephemerellidae was the sister clade to Vietnamellidae whereas Teloganellidae was not a sister clade of Ephemerellidae and Vietnamellidae.
Assessment of D-Dimer Levels in Southwestern Nigerian Pregnant Women
Authors: Bamisaye E. O. , Okungbowa M. A. , Alade D. T. , West O. Brown- , Oluwasuji G. T.
Published: August 2020

Aim: This study evaluated D-dimer level in pregnant and non-pregnant women in Southwestern Nigeria in order to provide more information on the concentration and liable risks in this region.

Study Design: This is a cross sectional study where convenience sampling method was applied in sample collection.

Place and Duration of Study: Blood samples were collected from pregnant women             attending the antenatal clinics of Federal Teaching Hospital Ido-Ekiti (FETHI), Ekiti; Federal                Medical Centre (FMC), Owo; and LAUTECH Teaching Hospital (LTH), Osogbo in Southwestern Nigeria.

Methodology: Exactly three hundred pregnant (300) and one hundred and fifty (150) apparently healthy non pregnant women were recruited for this study. The blood samples were analysed for haematocrit (HCT) and platelet count using Sysmex KX-2IN (Japan); prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) by Diagen reagents (Diagnostic Ltd., UK); the international normalized ratio (INR) was calculated from the PT results; and D-dimer quantitative assay using Tina Quant Gen 2 on Cobas C111 (Roche). Data analysis was performed using IBM-SPSS version 25.0; mean and standard deviation was used to summarize continuous variables and descriptive and Inferential statistical tests were employed with level of statistical significance was determined at p<0.05.

Results: The mean D-dimer levels were significantly higher in the pregnant women (0.87 ± 1.00 ugFEU/ml) than in controls (0.31 ± 0.22 ugFEU/ml) with 42% of the pregnant population having elevated concentration while the mean PT, INR and HCT were significantly higher in controls than the subjects (p<0.05).Furthermore, the HCT, platelet, PT and INR were observed to be highest at first trimester; 36.04±5.09 (L/L), 182.72±35.11 (x109/L), 11.80±1.86 (seconds) and 0.35±0.15 respectively, decreasing across the second and the third trimester. On the other hand, the D-dimer and APTT increased exponentially from the first trimester; 0.42±0.18 (ugFEU/ml) and 30.80±3.30 (seconds), through the second and third trimesters respectively (p>0.05).

Conclusion: This study shows a significant increase in D-dimer in the pregnant subjects when compared with the control and an exponential increase in the third trimester, also a significant reduction in some other baseline coagulation profile hence depicting D-dimer as a notable significant marker of coagulation and fibrinolysis. This therefore emphasizes the hypercoagulable state of pregnancy and a need for adequate monitoring.
Remanufacturingability Modeling Approach on Remanufacturing Conventional Machine into CNC Machine Tool
Authors: Abdullah Ziyad Tariq
Published: August 2020

Aims: Assess to find the most suitable remanufacturing portfolio alternatives to restore dovetail guide ways and saddles of machine tools.

Study Design: Comparative literature based analysis adoption to apply a series of assessments to find the remanufacturability of best restoration portfolio alternative where portfolios are developed by using scenario based analysis and results are optimized using remanufacturing experience based analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: Middle Technical University, Institute of Technology-Baghdad, Mechanical Techniques Department, between January 2020 and July 2020.

Methodology:

Literature survey aided remanufacturing assessment case studies elicitation.

Sample of published papers re-representation to highlight the findings of discussions and conclusions of these papers.

Graphical representation of results is also applied.

Study of published papers sample allows isolation of criteria, weighting of criteria, weighting of alternatives, global weights calculation and alternatives ranking of remanufacturing portfolio alternatives to restore dovetail guides ways and saddles of machine tools.

Conclusion: Series of different assessments with different groups of criteria lead to propose hypotheses to be highlighted to continue application of comparative literature based assessment, proposed hypotheses include:

As much as uniform is the Rank-Global weights curve of portfolio alternatives the more consistent is the assessment matrix.

Technical viability of remanufacturing portfolio will lead to economic and environmental viabilities.

Economic and environmental viabilities necessarily can certain remanufacturability and will lead to social viability.

Technical, economic, environmental and social viabilities will lead to sustainability.

Integrated technical viability of a remanufacturing portfolio is an integration of derivatives of technical viabilities of processes consist the portfolio.

Comparative literature based assessment is a powerful tool under the mixture of remanufacturing experience based analysis and scenario based analysis.

Remanufacturability assessment, technical viability assessment and partial sustainability assessment can be mixed to develop comprehensive remanufacturing sustainability assessment.

Grinding-Mechanical Cladding is assembly based remanufacturing to improve machine tool remanufacturability and sustainability.
Challenges and Considerations in the Preparation of Novel Antibiotic Phytochemicals
Authors: Eichelbaum Steven , Abood Steven , Acuña Leonardo , Ahumada Mariam , Veisaga Maria-Luisa , Barbieri M. Alejandro
Published: August 2020

Drug-resistant pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria pose a global health threat. Plants, particularly those employed in traditional (folk) medicine, may provide a source of antimicrobials compounds possessing novel mechanisms of action with which to combat current and emerging infectious diseases. However, experimental designs in ethnobotanical investigations of this type are complicated by several factors. Among these are chemotype variations among plants and plant parts, and potential antagonistic, additive or synergistic effects between plant compounds. These efforts are further hindered by a lack of standardized applicable chemical extraction methods in the field, which makes assessment and comparison of experimental results difficult. This overview thus seeks to provide insight into these complicating factors, give a brief historical survey of ancient investigations into antibiotics, and identify some of the strengths and weaknesses of the various modern methods and techniques routinely employed in ethnobotanical antibiotic research.
Effects of Highly Active Antiretroviral Treatment on Liver and Kidney Functions
Authors: Bani Simon Bannison , Obirikorang Christian , Danquah Kwabena O. , Owiredu William K. B. A. , Quaye Lawrence , Sakyi Samuel A. , Adams Yussif , Dapare Peter Paul M. , Banyeh Moses , Gandau Barnabas B. N.
Published: August 2020

Aim: This study assesses the effects of HAART on liver and renal functions in HIV infected individuals on HAART.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Methods: This study was conducted in Tamale, Ghana from August, 2015 to November 2017.

Methodology: A total of 300 HIV infected participants with ages ranging from 19 to 79 years who have been administered with HAART for at least 6 months were recruited. Pre-HAART administration (baseline) demographic and clinical information, with initial liver and renal function test results were retrieved from the medical records of the participants present at the ART center. Post HAART administration blood sample (5 mLs) was taken from each participant into a gel separated vacutainer tube, allowed to clot and spun at 3000 rpm for 3 minutes to produce serum. The product (serum) was used for liver and renal function test analysis using a fully automated chemistry analyser (Vital Scientific Selectra Flexor XL).

Results: Of the study population, 72% were administered with AZT/3TC/EFV, 13% with AZT/3TC/NVP, 6.7% with TDF/3TC/LPV/r and TDF/3TC/NVP, 1% with AZT/3TC/EFV while 0.7% were administered with TDF/FTC/EFV. The following parameters were significantly increased post HAART administration; ALT (25.53 ± 16.90 to 30.87 ± 19.28 U/L), ALP (163.7 ± 141.0 to 215.2 ± 143.4 U/L), GGT (37.27 ± 25.21 to 53.19 ± 41.71 U/L), Total protein (73.97 ± 17.08 to 82.31 ± 11.62 g/L), Albumin (38.02 ± 9.331 to 41.01 ± 7.471 g/L), Globulin 38.02 ± 15.71 to 42.79 ± 25.20 (g/L). There were however significant reductions in Total bilirubin (12.13 ± 10.85 to 9.434 ± 4.560 µmol/L), Direct bilirubin (6.616 ± 5.770 to 4.184 ± 2.806 µmol/L), (Creatinine 73.19 ± 36.13 to 63.14 ± 27.14 µmol/L) and Urea (3.515 ± 2.552 to 3.011±1.274 mmol/L).

Conclusion: HAART improves renal function, induces elevation in liver enzymes, stimulates the production of plasma proteins and reduces serum bilirubin concentration.
Gastric Wall Implantation of Pancreatic Cancer Due to Preoperative Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration: A Case Report
Authors: Maehira Hiromitsu , Ogawa Masao , Kawasaki Masayasu , Imagawa Atsuo , Yuu Ken , Itoh Aya , Mizumura Naoto , Yamamoto Kansuke , Yasuda Hiroshi , Toyoda Sho , Kawashima Hiroshi , Okumura Satoshi , Yoshimura Michiko , Kameyama Masao
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is often used to diagnose pancreatic tumors. In rare cases, preoperative EUS-FNA can be complicated by gastric wall implantation of pancreatic cancer.

Case presentation:

A 66-year-old woman with pancreatic tail cancer underwent evaluation by EUS-FNA, followed by distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy. Twelve months postoperatively, a submucosal tumor was detected at the posterior gastric wall, at the location where the EUS-FNA was performed, and a boring biopsy from the submucosal tumor showed an adenocarcinoma. Therefore, we performed partial gastrectomy. Immunostaining results of the resected specimen were identical to those of the resected pancreatic cancer. The patient was diagnosed as having gastric wall implantation of pancreatic cancer due to EUS-FNA.

Conclusion:

This case emphasizes the importance of monitoring the site of EUS-FNA for gastric wall implantation of pancreatic cancer, and boring biopsy is a useful diagnostic tool.
Complete Surgical Resection and Aggressive Treatment for Liver Metastasis May Be Beneficial to Adult Patients With Pancreatoblastoma: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Yin Shih-Min , Liu Yueh-Wei , Chou Fong-Fu , Kuo Fang-Ying , Tsang Leung-Chit
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

Pancreatoblastoma (PB) is a rare pancreatic neoplasm that occurs most in pediatric patients. Here, we report a rare case of adult PB with liver metastasis and review the literature in order to assist clinicians in the management of the disease.

Case Presentation:

A 27-year-old female patient suffered from postprandial fullness, anorexia, and weight loss in the past 3 months. An abdominal ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans confirmed right abdominal mass with compression of major liver vessels, as well as the P-duct and biliary ducts and causing mild dilatation. Pancreatoduodenectomy was performed and pathologic findings showed typical squamoid corpuscles, which confirmed the diagnosis of PB. The patient was alive and disease-free for 1 year and 10 months until a new metastatic lesion was found. Radiofrequency ablation was arranged as a curative treatment, and no viable tumor or sign of recurrence was found until this paper was submitted. Based on a review of previous case reports, we found adult PB patients with only liver metastasis presented with a smaller tumor size (P = 0.031), more frequent pancreatic head origin (P = 0.043), and decreased 1-year mortality (P = 0.009) compared with patients with other distal metastases. Therefore, we assumed that PB with liver metastasis might present favorable outcome by complete surgical resection or other curative treatment.

Conclusion:

PB patients with liver metastasis are more likely to show a pancreatic head origin, smaller tumor size, and more favorable outcomes compared with other sites of metastasis. PB should be treated aggressively with surgical resection or other curative treatment as opposed to chemotherapy alone.
Comprehensive Strategies for the Synthesis of Isoquinolines: Progress Since 2008
Authors: Gujjarappa Raghuram , Vodnala Nagaraju , Malakar Chandi C.
Published: August 2020

In the past decades, an enormous number of reports have been dedicated towards the synthesis of nitrogen containing heterocycles. This immense interest have emerged owing to their wide varieties of pharmacological activities. The present review focused on the synthesis of isoquinoline derivatives, a family of N‐heterocycles showing a broad range of structural diversity, biological and pharmaceutical activities. The progress on their synthetic strategies using versatile approaches are discussed in details.

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Antiproliferative and apoptotic activity of new indazole derivatives as potential anticancer agents
Authors: Laghchioua Fatima E. , Kouakou Assoman , Eddahmi Mohammed , Viale Maurizio , Monticone Massimiliano , Gangemi Rosaria , Maric Irena , El Ammari Lahcen , Saadi Mohamed , Baltas Michel , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Rakib El Mostapha
Published: August 2020

To develop potent and selective anticancer agents, a series of novel polysubstituted indazoles was synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro antiproliferative and apoptotic activities against two selected human cancer cell lines (A2780 and A549). Several compounds showed an interesting antiproliferative activity, with IC50 values ranging from 0.64 to 17 µM against both cell lines. The most active indazoles were then tested in different pharmacological dilution conditions, adding five new cell lines (A2780, A549, IMR32, MDA‐MB‐231, and T47D) as targets, confirming their antiproliferative activity. Furthermore, selected compounds were able to trigger apoptosis to a significant extent and to cause, in part, a block of cells in the S phase of the cell cycle, with a concomitant decrease of cells in the G2/M and/or G0/G1 phases and the generation of hypodiploid peaks. However, molecule 7d caused a great increase of cells in G2/M and the appearance of polyploid cells. Altogether, our results suggest a good pharmacological activity for our selected polysubstituted indazoles, which are suggestive of a preferential mechanism of action as cell cycle‐specific antimetabolites or as an inhibitor of enzyme activities involved in DNA synthesis, except for 7d, which, on the contrary, seems to have a mechanism involving the microtubule system.
Reduction of Pesticide Toxicity Under Field-Relevant Conditions? The Interaction of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles, Ultraviolet, and Natural Organic Matter
Authors: Lüderwald Simon , Meyer Frederik , Gerstle Verena , Friedrichs Lisa , Rolfing Katrin , Schreiner Verena C. , Bakanov Nikita , Schulz Ralf , Bundschuh Mirco
Published: August 2020

In surface waters, the illumination of photoactive engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) with ultraviolet (UV) light triggers the formation of reactive intermediates, consequently altering the ecotoxicological potential of co-occurring organic micropollutants including pesticides due to catalytic degradation. Simultaneously, omnipresent natural organic matter (NOM) adsorbs onto ENM surfaces, altering the ENM surface properties. Also, NOM absorbs light, reducing the photo(cata)lytic transformation of pesticides. Interactions between these environmental factors impact 1) directly the ecotoxicity of photoactive ENMs, and 2) indirectly the degradation of pesticides. We assessed the impact of field-relevant UV radiation (up to 2.6 W UVA/m²), NOM (4 mg TOC/L), and photoactive ENM (nTiO2, 50 µg/L) on the acute toxicity of 6 pesticides in Daphnia magna. We selected azoxystrobin, dimethoate, malathion, parathion, permethrin, and pirimicarb because of their varying photo- and hydrolytic stabilities. Increasing UVA alone partially reduced pesticide toxicity, seemingly due to enhanced degradation. Even at 50 µg/L, nano-sized titanium dioxide (nTiO2) reduced but also increased pesticide toxicity (depending on the applied pesticide), which is attributable to 1) more efficient degradation and potentially 2) photocatalytically induced formation of toxic by-products. Natural organic matter 1) partially reduced pesticide toxicity, not evidently accompanied by enhanced pesticide degradation, but also 2) inhibited pesticide degradation, effectively increasing the pesticide toxicity. Predicting the ecotoxicological potential of pesticides based on their interaction with UV light or interaction with NOM was hardly possible, which was even more difficult in the presence of nTiO2. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2237–2246. © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Factors influencing India's current account balance: Implication for achieving its external sector sustainability
Authors: Sahoo Manoranjan , Mallick Hrushikesh , Kumar Mahalik Mantu , Bekiros Stelios
Published: August 2020

Using annual data for the period 1980–1981 to 2014–2015, the study explores the impact of crude oil imports and real exchange rate on India's current account performance. Utilizing the recent co‐integration econometric tools on a current account balance model, the findings contrary to the theoretical prediction revealed that crude oil import significantly improves the current account balance in the long run. Furthermore, the fiscal balance and financial development significantly contribute to the current account performance, whereas real exchange rate, trade openness and age dependency cause deterioration in India's current account balance in the long run. These results have significant policy implications on the sustainability of the current account balance in India.
High‐Quality GaN Crystal Grown on Laser Decomposed GaN–Sapphire Substrate and Its Application in Photodetector
Authors: Hu Haixiao , Zhang Baoguo , Wu Yongzhong , Shao Yongliang , Liu Lei , Hao Xiaopeng
Published: August 2020

The lack of high‐quality gallium nitride (GaN) wafers may be a non‐negligible bottleneck restricting the development of GaN‐based devices. Although various processing methods have been used to reduce dislocation density, there is still plenty of room for the reduction of stress in GaN crystal. Herein, laser decomposition is verified as an efficient technique to reduce the interfacial stress in GaN–sapphire and improve the lateral epitaxial growth quality of GaN crystal. The variation of the stress on surface and at a depth of 2 μm by controlling the incident pulse energy is systematically studied and the physical mechanism of laser decomposition process is discussed. As the incident energy increases, the stress is weakened within a certain range. Experimental evidences of the good growth quality are displayed by the investigation of high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction, electron backscattered diffraction, and photoluminescence. Furthermore, high‐quality UV photodetectors based on the as‐obtained GaN are fabricated successfully, which show a strong photocurrent response and excellent stability. This work may pave a way towards improving crystal growth and provides a new insight for tuning interface stress so as to develop desired devices.
Insight and performance of LC‐DFT vs DFT in the NMR shielding and chemical shift calculations: Case of CHClCHCF3
Authors: Holtomo Olivier , Motapon Ousmanou , Nsangou Mama
Published: August 2020

Fifteen density functional theory (DFT) methods and fifteen long‐range corrected density functional theory (LC‐DFT) methods were used in the present work to assess nuclear magnetic resonance parameters such as nuclear shielding constant (NSC), nuclear chemical shift (NCS), and nuclear anisotropic shielding constant (NAS). These different methods were associated with the full basis set 6‐311++G(3df,3pd). The gauge‐independent atomic orbital was used for the calculation of nuclear shielding tensors of the nuclei contained in the stereoisomers cis‐ and trans‐CHClCHCF3. Thus, the effects of LC are clearly observed for heavy nuclei (13C, 19F, 35Cl). The results of NSC, NCS, and NAS from DFT are better described than LC‐DFT with regard to the KT3 method. Moreover, the results from the LC‐DFT are better described than the standard DFT with regard to CCSD(T). Based on the latter method used as the benchmark, the NSCs of nuclei are well fitted by the competitive functionals LC‐TPSSTPSS and LC‐PKZBPKZB. In the particular case of the trans‐isomer, mPWPKZB was found to be the best method. For the NCSs, the more accurate methods include the latter two LC functionals and the non‐LC functionals TPSSTPSS and mPWPKZB. The accuracy of NAS depends strongly on the nuclei. Thus, CAM‐B3LYP describes it well for 19F and LC‐PKZBPKZB for 35Cl. The rest of nuclei are well fitted by all the methods except 13C1 and 13C2, which are better reproduced by the LC‐DFT except the LC‐PKZBPKZB, LC‐TPSSTPSS, and CAM‐B3LYP functionals.
High energy modular bootstrap, global symmetries and defects
Authors: Pal Sridip , Sun Zhengdi
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We derive Cardy-like formulas for the growth of operators in different sectors of unitary 2 dimensional CFT in the presence of topological defect lines by putting an upper and lower bound on the number of states with scaling dimension in the interval [∆ − δ, ∆ + δ] for large ∆ at fixed δ. Consequently we prove that given any unitary modular invariant 2D CFT symmetric under finite global symmetry G (acting faithfully), all the irreducible representations of G appear in the spectra of the untwisted sector; the growth of states is Cardy like and proportional to the “square” of the dimension of the irrep. In the Schwarzian limit, the result matches onto that of JT gravity with a bulk gauge theory. If the symmetry is non-anomalous, the result applies to any sector twisted by a group element. For c > 1, the statements are true for Virasoro primaries. Furthermore, the results are applicable to large c CFTs. We also extend our results for the continuous U(1) group.
A field theory study of entanglement wedge cross section: odd entropy
Authors: Mollabashi Ali , Tamaoka Kotaro
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We study odd entanglement entropy (odd entropy in short), a candidate of measure for mixed states holographically dual to the entanglement wedge cross section, in two-dimensional free scalar field theories. Our study is restricted to Gaussian states of scale-invariant theories as well as their finite temperature generalizations, for which we show that odd entropy is a well-defined measure for mixed states. Motivated from holographic results, the difference between odd and von Neumann entropy is also studied. In particular, we show that large amounts of quantum correlations ensure the odd entropy to be larger than von Neumann entropy, which is qualitatively consistent with the holographic CFT. In general cases, we also find that this difference is not even a monotonic function with respect to size of (and distance between) subsystems.
The Kager’s fat pad radiological anatomy revised
Authors: Szaro Paweł , Polaczek Mateusz , Ciszek Bogdan
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study was to map connections within the Kager’s fat pad between the structures which limit it.

Methods

A retrospective re-review of 200 ankle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination was conducted. Connections within the Kager’s fat pad between the superior peroneal retinaculum, the fibulotalocalcaneal ligament, the posterior talocalcaneal ligament, the flexor hallucis longus, the paratenon of the Achilles tendon, the flexor retinaculum and bones were studied and a model of the connections was constructed.

Results

The superior peroneal retinaculum was directly connected with the fibulotalocalcaneal ligament in 85.5% of cases, the lateral part of the paratenon in 82.5%, the processus posterior tali in 78.5%, the posterior talofibular ligament in 32%, the flexor retinaculum in 29.5% and the anterior talofibular ligament in 9%.

The fibulotalocalcaneal ligament was connected with the paratenon (on the medial side 88.5%, on the lateral side 68.5%), the flexor retinaculum in 70%, the posterior process of the talus in 79%, the osteofibrosus tunnel for the flexor hallucis longus in 53%, the posterior talofibular ligament in 43.5% and the calcaneofibular ligament in 10.5%.

The posterior talocalcaneal ligament was connected with the fibulotalocalcaneal ligament in 71%, with the osteofibrosus tunnel for the flexor hallucis longus in 76.5%, with the flexor retinaculum in 70%. The plantaris tendon showed projection to the crural fascia in 34 of % cases.

Conclusion

In the Kager’s fat pad there are present more connections than previously reported. All the connections unit at the level of the posterior process of the talus.
Red blood cell transfusion in obstetrics and its implication for patient blood management: a retrospective analysis in Switzerland from 1998 to 2016
Authors: Zdanowicz Jarmila A. , Schneider Sophie , Mueller Martin , Tschudi Ruedi , Surbek Daniel
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Peripartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains one of the main causes of maternal mortality worldwide. Treatment includes administration of packed red blood cells (RBC) in severe cases and patient blood management (PBM) may reduce it significantly. In our study, we wanted to retrospectively assess red blood cell administration in PPH to evaluate the impact of PBM in Switzerland.

Methods

Using data from the Swiss obstetric hospital registry (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Schweizer Frauenkliniken, ASF), we included patients with deliveries from 1998 to 2016. We examined available obstetric data as well as blood loss and RBC administration in the acute and subacute peripartal phase. We categorized data into two time intervals: 1998–2011 and 2012–2016, as new PPH guidelines in Switzerland were established in 2012.

Results

PPH incidence increased between 1998 and 2016 significantly. The number of vaginal instrumental deliveries and cesarean sections increased as well. Administration of three or more RBC units, as defined in the ASF registry, in the acute and subacute phase in Switzerland has decreased after 2012. Conversely, we saw an increase in the administration of one to two RBC units in the acute and subacute phase. Nevertheless, overall RBC administration has been decreasing from 1998 to 2016.

Conclusion

The increase of patients obtaining one or two units of RBC for PPH suggests that there may be a potential for effective implication of PBM in obstetrics. Reduction of RBC transfusion in the context of PPH may not only decrease maternal morbidity, but decrease economic costs as well.
Detection of systemic immunosuppressants in autologous serum eye drops (ASED) in patients with severe chronic ocular graft versus host disease
Authors: Tahmaz Volkan , Wiesen Martin H. J. , Gehlsen Uta , Sauerbier Laura , Stern Michael E. , Holtick Udo , Gathof Birgit , Scheid Christof , Müller Carsten , Steven Philipp
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Chronic graft versus host disease is a major consequence after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) and has great impact on patients’ morbidity and mortality. Besides the skin, liver, and intestines, the eyes are most commonly affected, manifesting as severe ocular surface disease. Treatment protocols include topical steroids, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and ASED. Since these patients often receive systemic immunosuppressant therapy from their oncologists, a topical re-administration of these drugs via ASED with potentially beneficial or harmful effects is possible. The purpose of the study was to determine whether and to which extent systemic immunosuppressants are detectable in ASED.

Methods

A total of 34 samples of ASED from 16 patients with hemato-oncological malignancies after allo-SCT were collected during the manufacturing process and screened for levels of cyclosporine, mycophenolic acid, everolimus, and tacrolimus via liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The study followed the tenets of the Declaration of Helsinki and informed consent was obtained from the subjects after explanation of the nature and possible consequences of the study.

Results

Cyclosporine was found in 18 ASED samples in concentrations ranging from 6.5–105.0 ng/ml (32.0 ± 22.8 ng/ml, mean ± SD). The concentration range of mycophenolic acid in 19 samples was 0.04–25.0 mg/l (4.0 ± 5.4 mg/l, mean ± SD). Everolimus and tacrolimus concentrations were well below the respective limits of quantification (< 0.6 and < 0.5 ng/ml) of the established LC-MS/MS method in all samples.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that orally administered cyclosporine and mycophenolic acid for the treatment of systemic GvHD, but not everolimus and tacrolimus, are distinctly detectable in ASED in relevant concentrations. It is highly likely that these agents affect topical therapy of ocular GvHD. However, the extent of this effect needs to be evaluated in further studies.
The probability of intransitivity in dice and close elections
Authors: Hązła Jan , Mossel Elchanan , Ross Nathan , Zheng Guangqu
Published: August 2020

We study the phenomenon of intransitivity in models of dice and voting. First, we follow a recent thread of research forn-sided dice with pairwise ordering induced by the probability, relative to 1/2, that a throw from one die is higher than the other. We build on a recent result of Polymath showing that three dice with i.i.d. faces drawn from the uniform distribution on$$\{1,\ldots ,n\}$${1,…,n}and conditioned on the average of faces equal to$$(n+1)/2$$(n+1)/2are intransitive with asymptotic probability 1/4. We show that if dice faces are drawn from a non-uniform continuous mean zero distribution conditioned on the average of faces equal to 0, then three dice are transitive with high probability. We also extend our results to stationary Gaussian dice, whose faces, for example, can be the fractional Brownian increments with Hurst index$$H\in (0,1)$$H∈(0,1). Second, we pose an analogous model in the context of Condorcet voting. We considernvoters who rankkalternatives independently and uniformly at random. The winner between each two alternatives is decided by a majority vote based on the preferences. We show that in this model, if all pairwise elections are close to tied, then the asymptotic probability of obtaining any tournament on thekalternatives is equal to$$2^{-k(k-1)/2}$$2-k(k-1)/2, which markedly differs from known results in the model without conditioning. We also explore the Condorcet voting model where methods other than simple majority are used for pairwise elections. We investigate some natural definitions of “close to tied” for general functions and exhibit an example where the distribution over tournaments is not uniform under those definitions.
Virtual Observations: a software tool for contextual observation and assessment of user’s actions in virtual reality
Authors: Howie Scott , Gilardi Marco
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we present ‘Virtual Observation’ (VO) a software tool for contextual observation and assessment of user’s directly from within the virtual reality (VR) simulation framework. Unlike other recording systems, the VO system described in this paper focuses on recording and reconstructing VR user’s positional, rotational and input data to recreate the same experience the user had with a VR simulation. Different from animation-based approaches, VO records user inputs and reconstructs the simulation from them and the user positional data. Moreover, the system allows the broadcast of this information to a remote machine enabling remote live observation of the simulation. Datasets recorded by the system can be shared by exporting them as XML files or, optionally, into a standalone online application, such as browser WebGL, allowing researchers, developers and educators to share and review a VR user simulation through a free-moving camera using a web browser. In this paper, the consistency of the data generated from the software by the client, server and reconstructed datasets acquired during real-time live observations was evaluated. We conclude that this Virtual Observation software offers detailed reconstruction of low-level information and visual information of user actions during simulations for both live and offline observations. We envision that our system will be of benefit for researchers, developers and educators that work with VR applications.
Double-endoscope assisted endoscopic submucosal dissection for treating tumors in rectum and distal colon by expert endoscopists: a feasibility study
Authors: Ebigbo A. , Tziatzios G. , Gölder S. K. , Probst A. , Messmann H.
Published: August 2020

Background

Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is an effective but challenging procedure. To facilitate ESD, several methods that apply traction are available; however, the optimal one remains to be established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of the double-endoscope assisted ESD (DEA-ESD) by improving traction to treat complex colorectal lesions.

Methods

Naïve or previously treated lesions in the rectum and sigmoid colon were included. A grasping forceps advanced through a small-caliber endoscope (GIF-XP190N, Olympus Medical Systems, Tokyo, Japan, 5.4 mm outer diameter) was used to apply traction to the mucosal flap. Lesions were deemed complex when they exceeded a total of nine points on the SMSA scoring system (size, morphology, site, and access) and recurrent when they were previously treated with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). Outcome measures included procedural success, total procedure time, complications, and recurrence rate at 3-month follow-up.

Results

Nine patients (mean age 62.3 ± 14.5 years) were included; five had rectal and four had tumors in the sigmoid colon. The median SMSA score was 14 (SMSA Level IV—complex polyp), while three patients were pre-treated with EMR. DEA-ESD was technically feasible in all cases. En bloc resection and R0 resection rates were 100%, respectively, with a mean procedure time of 128.4 ± 54.1 min. No immediate or delayed complications occurred.

Conclusions

DEA-ESD is a feasible and safe method for treating complex or recurrent tumors in the rectum and distal colon.
Contents, vehicles, and complex data analysis in neuroscience
Authors: Burnston Daniel C.
Published: August 2020

The notion of representation in neuroscience has largely been predicated on localizing the components of computational processes that explain cognitive function. On this view, which I call “algorithmic homuncularism,” individual, spatially and temporally distinct parts of the brain serve as vehicles for distinct contents, and the causal relationships between them implement the transformations specified by an algorithm. This view has a widespread influence in philosophy and cognitive neuroscience, and has recently been ably articulated and defended by Shea (2018). Still, I am skeptical about algorithmic homuncularism, and I argue against it by focusing on recent methods for complex data analysis in systems neuroscience. I claim that analyses such as principle components analysis and linear discriminant analysis prevent individuating vehicles as algorithmic homuncularism recommends. Rather, each individual part contributes to a global state space, trajectories of which vary with important task parameters. I argue that, while homuncularism is false, this view still supports a kind of “vehicle realism,” and I apply this view to debates about the explanatory role of representation.
Physicochemical characteristics of the Dombrovska pit lake (Ukraine) formed in an opencast potassium salt mine and the genome response of Chironomus salinarius Kieffer (Chironomidae, Diptera) to these conditions
Authors: Michailova Paraskeva , Szarek-Gwiazda Ewa , Kownacki Andrzej
Published: August 2020

This study focuses on the Dombrovska pit lake, near the city of Kalush in Ukraine, which is a former potassium salt mine filled with brine and freshwater. The water level is still increasing and as a result the salinity is decreasing. We analyzed the benthic fauna communities and the genome instability by assessing the rearrangements in the polytene chromosomes of Chironomus salinarius and the physicochemical parameters of the near-bottom water (pH, conductivity, mineralization, major ions, NO3−, NH4+, metals Cd, Pb, Cu, Mn, and Fe) and sediment (pH, organic matter and metals Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, Mn, and Fe) at four sites. The water mineralization ranged from 17.3 to 26.2 g dm−3 which are classified as mesohaline and polyhaline waters, respectively. The biodiversity of the benthic fauna was low, and the dominant species was C. salinarius. The density of C. salinarius varied spatially and changed from 637 ind./m2 at a depth of 5 m to 8167 ind./m2 at a depth of 2.5 m. The genome instability was analyzed by examining the structural and functional changes in the salivary gland chromosomes of C. salinarius. The exposure of C. salinarius damaged the chromosomes and the activities of key structures, such as the Balbiani ring and nucleolar organizer, were partially or completely suppressed.
Metabolic profile of the synthetic drug 4,4′-dimethylaminorex in urine by LC–MS-based techniques: selection of the most suitable markers of its intake
Authors: Chieffi Claudia , Camuto Cristian , De-Giorgio Fabio , de la Torre Xavier , Diamanti Francesca , Mazzarino Monica , Trapella Claudio , Marti Matteo , Botrè Francesco
Published: August 2020

Purpose

In this study, the phase I and II metabolic pathways of 4,4′-dimethylaminorex were characterized to select the marker(s) of intake allowing the unequivocal identification of this novel psychoactive substance in urine samples.

Methods

The metabolic profile of 4,4′-dimethylaminorex was characterized using both in vitro and in vivo models. In detail, for the in vitro experiments, either pooled human liver microsomes or recombinant cytochrome P450 isoforms were selected, whereas the in vivo investigation was performed on male mice ICR (CD-1®). Sample preparation included enzymatic hydrolysis followed by liquid/liquid extraction. The instrumental analysis was performed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to either high- or low-resolution tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Five metabolic products were isolated only for the cis-isomer: the phase I metabolic reactions included hydrolysis, carboxylation, hydroxylation, and carbonylation. CYP2D6 was the principal isoenzyme involved, and the incubation in the presence of different allelic variants showed significant alteration on the metabolic profile. Once formed, the phase I metabolites underwent extensive conjugation. Not only the most abundant compounds detected, but also those with the most extended window of detection, were the carboxylated and the hydroxylated metabolites. These analytes together with the parent compound were selected as the most suitable markers of intake.

Conclusions

Knowledge of the metabolic profiles of the new drugs is essential for their fast identification. Phase I and phase II metabolites of 4,4′-dimethylaminorex were identified and selected as markers of intake, to be considered as the most suitable analytical targets in forensic toxicology.
Revision of failed reverse shoulder arthroplasty—a point of no return?
Authors: Gohlke Frank , Abdelkawi Ayman A. , Eltair Hani , Aboalata Mohamed , Hussein Walid , Abdrabo Mohamed S. , Jasper Tina
Published: August 2020

Background

The rate of complications after revision of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is higher than it is in primary RSA, depending on the type of surgical intervention, the follow-up time, the preoperative condition of the patient, and the experience of the surgeon.

Objective

The current article represents an evaluation of the authors’ experiences with revisions of RSA and a review of literature, in order to define prognostic parameters and surgical options for the most common modes of failure.

Materials and methods

Between 2010 and 2019, 136 revisions of RSA were performed. Mean age of the patients at surgery was 68.3 years (29–88 years). The main indication was instability in 24 patients and chronic infection in 34. Aseptic loosening of the stem was the main indication in 15 and aseptic loosening of the baseplate in 23 patients. Periprosthetic fractures were present in 21 patients. Fractures of the scapular spine were operated on in 6 and surgery was performed for progressive notching due to malposition of the glenosphere in 4 patients.

Results

Staged procedures, use of allografts, and custom-made implants are common, especially for chronic infections and severe bone loss. Most of the patients (88.2%) were treated successfully. Two salvage procedures and two retentions of spacers occurred. We identified risk groups for re-revision: chronic dislocations, chronic infections, advanced bone loss, and scapular spine fractures. We observed a shift of indications and techniques, often related to the design of the implants.

Conclusion

These results confirm that careful preoperative planning, special implants, and a high level of experience are mandatory. With time, the authors developed an algorithm for certain indications because it was recognized that failures are often of multifactorial origin. Today, numerous implant designs which differ considerably in biomechanical features and failure modes are available. This makes revisions of RSA more complex than it was in the past.
Survivorship care for cancer patients in primary versus secondary care: a systematic review
Authors: Vos J. A. M. , Wieldraaijer T. , van Weert H. C. P. M. , van Asselt K. M.
Published: August 2020

Background

Cancer survivorship care is traditionally performed in secondary care. Primary care is often involved in cancer management and could therefore play a more prominent role.

Purpose

To assess outcomes of cancer survivorship care in primary versus secondary care.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed. All original studies on cancer survivorship care in primary versus secondary care were included. A narrative synthesis was used for three distinctive outcomes: (1) clinical, (2) patient-reported, and (3) costs.

Results

Sixteen studies were included: 7 randomized trials and 9 observational studies. Meta-analyses were not feasible due to heterogeneity. Most studies reported on solid tumors, like breast (N = 7) and colorectal cancers (N = 3). Clinical outcomes were reported by 10 studies, patient-reported by 11, and costs by 4. No important differences were found on clinical and patient-reported outcomes when comparing primary- with secondary-based care. Some differences were seen relating to the content and quality of survivorship care, such as guideline adherence and follow-up tests, but there was no favorite strategy. Survivorship care in primary care was associated with lower societal costs.

Conclusions

Overall, cancer survivorship care in primary care had similar effects on clinical and patient-reported outcomes compared with secondary care, while resulting in lower costs.

Implications for cancer survivors

Survivorship care in primary care seems feasible. However, since the design and outcomes of studies differed, conclusive evidence for the equivalence of survivorship care in primary care is still lacking. Ongoing studies will help provide better insights.