bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic and clinical characterization of 73 Pigmentary Mosaicism patients: revealing the genetic basis of clinical manifestations
Authors: Salas-Labadía C. , Gómez-Carmona S. , Cruz-Alcívar R. , Martínez-Anaya D. , Del Castillo-Ruiz V. , Durán-McKinster C. , Ulloa-Avilés V. , Yokoyama-Rebollar E. , Ruiz-Herrera A. , Navarrete-Meneses P. , Lieberman-Hernández E. , González-Del Angel A. , Cervantes-Barragán D. , Villarroel-Cortés C. , Reyes-León A. , Suárez-Pérez D. , Pedraza-Meléndez A. , González-Orsuna A. , Pérez-Vera P.
Published: November 2019

Background

Pigmentary mosaicism constitutes a heterogeneous group of skin pigmentation alterations associated with multisystem involvement. The aim of this study was to establish a complete cytogenetic and molecular characterization of PM patients, emphasizing on searching for possible low chromosomal mosaicism and on establishing an accurate genotype-phenotype correlation.

Results

A total of 73 patients were included (3 months to 18 years of age), 52% male and 48% female. Observed in 69 (95%) patients, the most frequent pattern of pigmentation was fine and whorled BL, which was associated with disseminated skin extent in 41 (59%) patients. Central nervous system (84%) alterations were the most frequent observed in the group of patients, followed by the musculoskeletal (53%) and ophthalmologic (27%) alterations. Considering the pattern of pigmentation, no significant differences in association with skin extent or extracutaneous manifestations were detected. Following a strict cytogenetic analysis strategy, screening metaphases from three different tissues (peripheral blood, hyperpigmented and hypopigmented skin) we found that 23/73 patients had chromosomal abnormalities classified as follows: 1) Mosaic with 2 or more different cell lines with structural alterations n = 19; 2) Polyploidy (mosaic) n = 1 and 3) Alterations in all cells in three different tissues n = 3. SNP array, array CGH and FISH were useful for the complete characterization of the chromosomal aberrations, for the detection of microdeletions in patients with normal karyotype but with strong clinical suspicious of chromosomal alteration, and for a better establishment of genotype-phenotype correlation. In 2 patients we found genes associated with some of the extracutaneous manifestations (SHH, MNX1, PPP2R2C).

Conclusions

This group of 73 patients finely described is the largest series of patients with pigmentary mosaicism reported worldwide. As we showed in this study, the followed analysis strategy allowed the detection of cytogenetic and molecular abnormalities, and made possible the establishment of genotype-phenotype associations in some patients. An important limitation of our study was the analysis of fibroblasts cultures instead of melanocytes and keratinocytes. In some cases the direct molecular DNA analysis of skin biopsy could be another choice.
Face processing and exploration of social signals in Prader-Willi syndrome: a genetic signature
Authors: Debladis Jimmy , Valette Marion , Strenilkov Kuzma , Mantoulan Carine , Thuilleaux Denise , Laurier Virginie , Molinas Catherine , Barone Pascal , Tauber Maïthé
Published: November 2019

Background

Faces are critical social cues that must be perfectly processed in order to engage appropriately in everyday social interactions. In Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), a rare genetic disorder characterized by cognitive and behavioural difficulties including autism spectrum disorder, the literature referring to face processing is sparse. Given reports of poor social interactions in individuals with PWS, we sought to assess their face and emotion recognition skills during eyetracking recordings.

Results

Compared with controls, patients with PWS performed more poorly on face/emotion recognition. We observed atypical facial exploration by patients with maternal disomy. These patients looked preferentially at the mouth region, whereas patients with a deletion and controls were more attracted to the eye region. During social scenes, the exploration became more atypical as the social content increased.

Conclusions

Our comprehensive study brings new insights into the face processing of patients with PWS. Atypical facial exploration was only displayed by patients with the maternal disomy subtype, corresponding to their higher rate of autism spectrum disorder. This finding strongly argues in favor of early identification of this genetic subgroup in order to optimize care by implementing tailored interventions for each patient as soon as possible.
Epigenetic age acceleration and metabolic syndrome in the coronary artery risk development in young adults study
Authors: Nannini Drew R. , Joyce Brian T. , Zheng Yinan , Gao Tao , Liu Lei , Yoon Grace , Huan Tianxiao , Ma Jiantao , Jacobs David R. , Wilkins John T. , Ren Jim , Zhang Kai , Khan Sadiya S. , Allen Norrina Bai , Horvath Steve , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Greenland Philip , Hou Lifang
Published: November 2019

Background

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a collection of metabolic disturbances that can lead to various cardiovascular diseases. Previous studies have shown a more adverse metabolic risk profile is associated with more advanced biological aging. The associations between epigenetic biomarkers of age with MetS, however, are not well understood. We therefore investigated the associations between epigenetic age acceleration and MetS severity score and incident MetS.

Results

A subset of study participants with available whole blood at examination years 15 and 20 from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study underwent epigenomic profiling using the Illumina MethylationEPIC Beadchip (~ 850,000 sites). Intrinsic and extrinsic epigenetic age acceleration (IEAA and EEAA) were calculated from DNA methylation levels. The MetS severity score was positively associated with IEAA at years 15 (P = 0.016) and 20 (P = 0.016) and EEAA at year 20 (P = 0.040) in cross-sectional analysis. IEAA at year 20 was significantly associated with incident MetS at year 30 (OR = 1.05 [95% CI 1.01, 1.10], P = 0.028).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report of the longitudinal association between epigenetic age acceleration and MetS. These findings suggest that a higher MetS severity score is associated with accelerated epigenetic aging and such aging may play a role in the development of metabolic disorders, potentially serving as a useful biomarker of and early detection tool for future MetS.
Performance and usability of machine learning for screening in systematic reviews: a comparative evaluation of three tools
Authors: Gates Allison , Guitard Samantha , Pillay Jennifer , Elliott Sarah A. , Dyson Michele P. , Newton Amanda S. , Hartling Lisa
Published: November 2019

Background

We explored the performance of three machine learning tools designed to facilitate title and abstract screening in systematic reviews (SRs) when used to (a) eliminate irrelevant records (automated simulation) and (b) complement the work of a single reviewer (semi-automated simulation). We evaluated user experiences for each tool.

Methods

We subjected three SRs to two retrospective screening simulations. In each tool (Abstrackr, DistillerSR, RobotAnalyst), we screened a 200-record training set and downloaded the predicted relevance of the remaining records. We calculated the proportion missed and workload and time savings compared to dual independent screening. To test user experiences, eight research staff tried each tool and completed a survey.

Results

Using Abstrackr, DistillerSR, and RobotAnalyst, respectively, the median (range) proportion missed was 5 (0 to 28) percent, 97 (96 to 100) percent, and 70 (23 to 100) percent for the automated simulation and 1 (0 to 2) percent, 2 (0 to 7) percent, and 2 (0 to 4) percent for the semi-automated simulation. The median (range) workload savings was 90 (82 to 93) percent, 99 (98 to 99) percent, and 85 (85 to 88) percent for the automated simulation and 40 (32 to 43) percent, 49 (48 to 49) percent, and 35 (34 to 38) percent for the semi-automated simulation. The median (range) time savings was 154 (91 to 183), 185 (95 to 201), and 157 (86 to 172) hours for the automated simulation and 61 (42 to 82), 92 (46 to 100), and 64 (37 to 71) hours for the semi-automated simulation. Abstrackr identified 33–90% of records missed by a single reviewer. RobotAnalyst performed less well and DistillerSR provided no relative advantage. User experiences depended on user friendliness, qualities of the user interface, features and functions, trustworthiness, ease and speed of obtaining predictions, and practicality of the export file(s).

Conclusions

The workload savings afforded in the automated simulation came with increased risk of missing relevant records. Supplementing a single reviewer’s decisions with relevance predictions (semi-automated simulation) sometimes reduced the proportion missed, but performance varied by tool and SR. Designing tools based on reviewers’ self-identified preferences may improve their compatibility with present workflows.

Systematic review registration

Not applicable.
Simultaneous biosorption of nickel and cadmium by the brown algae Cystoseria indica characterized by isotherm and kinetic models
Authors: Khajavian Mohammad , Wood David A. , Hallajsani Ahmad , Majidian Nasrollah
Published: November 2019

Biosorption is an effective way of extracting heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions of various compositions. The brown algae, Cystoseria indica, when treated with sodium chloride, demonstrates significant capacity to extract cadmium and nickel, simultaneously, from aqueous solutions. The batch system was running over wide ranges of initial metal ion concentrations (5–150 mg/L), pH (2–6), adsorbent mass (1–4 g/L), and contact times (20–300 min), at a temperature of 25 °C. The results obtained when applying the system in these conditions exhibit higher removal capacities for cadmium than nickel. The optimal conditions of the biosorption process were found as the adsorbent mass of 1 g/L, initial concentration of adsorbates of 100 mg/L and pH of 6. The equilibrium data obtained are better described by the extended-Freundlich isotherm for nickel and cadmium. The maximum biosorption of nickel and cadmium in binary-metal-component system were 18.17 and 55.34 mg/g, respectively. The kinetic data derived from these experiments were evaluated with pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order and intra-particle-diffusion kinetic models. Kinetic examination of the equilibrium data derived from these models suggest that the adsorption of nickel and cadmium both follow the intra-particle-diffusion kinetic model.
Oscillation-specific nodal alterations in early to middle stages Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Guan Xiaojun , Guo Tao , Zeng Qiaoling , Wang Jiaqiu , Zhou Cheng , Liu Chunlei , Wei Hongjiang , Zhang Yuyao , Xuan Min , Gu Quanquan , Xu Xiaojun , Huang Peiyu , Pu Jiali , Zhang Baorong , Zhang Min-Ming
Published: November 2019

Background

Different oscillations of brain networks could carry different dimensions of brain integration. We aimed to investigate oscillation-specific nodal alterations in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) across early stage to middle stage by using graph theory-based analysis.

Methods

Eighty-eight PD patients including 39 PD patients in the early stage (EPD) and 49 patients in the middle stage (MPD) and 36 controls were recruited in the present study. Graph theory-based network analyses from three oscillation frequencies (slow-5: 0.01–0.027 Hz; slow-4: 0.027–0.073 Hz; slow-3: 0.073–0.198 Hz) were analyzed. Nodal metrics (e.g. nodal degree centrality, betweenness centrality and nodal efficiency) were calculated.

Results

Our results showed that (1) a divergent effect of oscillation frequencies on nodal metrics, especially on nodal degree centrality and nodal efficiency, that the anteroventral neocortex and subcortex had high nodal metrics within low oscillation frequencies while the posterolateral neocortex had high values within the relative high oscillation frequency was observed, which visually showed that network was perturbed in PD; (2) PD patients in early stage relatively preserved nodal properties while MPD patients showed widespread abnormalities, which was consistently detected within all three oscillation frequencies; (3) the involvement of basal ganglia could be specifically observed within slow-5 oscillation frequency in MPD patients; (4) logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses demonstrated that some of those oscillation-specific nodal alterations had the ability to well discriminate PD patients from controls or MPD from EPD patients at the individual level; (5) occipital disruption within high frequency (slow-3) made a significant influence on motor impairment which was dominated by akinesia and rigidity.

Conclusions

Coupling various oscillations could provide potentially useful information for large-scale network and progressive oscillation-specific nodal alterations were observed in PD patients across early to middle stages.
Alterations of perineuronal nets in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of neuropsychiatric patients
Authors: Alcaide Julia , Guirado Ramón , Crespo Carlos , Blasco-Ibáñez José Miguel , Varea Emilio , Sanjuan Julio , Nacher Juan
Published: November 2019

Background

Alterations in the structure and physiology of interneurons in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) are important factors in the etiopathology of different psychiatric disorders. Among the interneuronal subpopulations, parvalbumin (PV) expressing cells appear to be specially affected. Interestingly, during development and adulthood the connectivity of these interneurons is regulated by the presence of perineuronal nets (PNNs), specialized regions of the extracellular matrix, which are frequently surrounding PV expressing neurons. Previous reports have found anomalies in the density of PNNs in the PFC of schizophrenic patients. However, although some studies have described alterations in PNNs in some extracortical regions of bipolar disorder patients, there are no studies focusing on the prefrontocortical PNNs of bipolar or major depression patients. For this reason, we have analyzed the density of PNNs in post-mortem sections of the dorsolateral PFC (DLPFC) from the Stanley Neuropathology Consortium, which includes controls, schizophrenia, bipolar and major depression patients.

Results

We have not observed differences in the distribution of PV+ cells or PNNs, or in the percentage of PV+ interneurons surrounded by PNNs. The density of PV+ interneurons was similar in all the experimental groups, but there was a significantly lower density of PNNs in the DLPFC of bipolar disorder patients and a tendency towards a decrease in schizophrenic patients. No differences were found when evaluating the density of PV+ cells surrounded by PNNs. Interestingly, when assessing the influence of demographic data, we found an inverse correlation between the density of PNNs and the presence of psychosis.

Conclusions

The present results point to prefrontocortical PNNs and their role in the regulation of neuronal plasticity as putative players in the etiopathology of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Our findings also suggest a link between these specialized regions of the extracellular matrix and the presence of psychosis.
The CogBIAS longitudinal study of adolescence: cohort profile and stability and change in measures across three waves
Authors: Booth Charlotte , Songco Annabel , Parsons Sam , Heathcote Lauren Charlotte , Fox Elaine
Published: November 2019

Background

Adolescence is a time of considerable social, cognitive, and physiological development. It reflects a period of heightened risk for the onset of mental health problems, as well as heightened opportunity for flourishing and resilience. The CogBIAS Longitudinal Study (CogBIAS-L-S) aims to investigate psychological development during adolescence.

Methods

We present the cohort profile of the sample (N = 504) across three waves of data collection, when participants were approximately 13, 14.5, and 16 years of age. Further, we present descriptive statistics for all of the psychological variables assessed including (a) the self-report mood measures, (b) the other self-report measures, and (c) the behavioural measures. Differential and normative stability were investigated for each variable, in order to assess (i) measurement reliability (internal consistency), (ii) the stability of individual differences (intra-class correlations), and (iii) whether any adolescent-typical developmental changes occurred (multilevel growth curve models).

Results

Measurement reliability was good for the self-report measures (> .70), but lower for the behavioural measures (between .00 and .78). Differential stability was substantial, as individual differences were largely maintained across waves. Although, stability was lower for the behavioural measures. Some adolescent-typical normative changes were observed, reflected by (i) worsening mood, (ii) increasing impulsivity, and (iii) improvements in executive functions.

Conclusions

The stability of individual differences was substantial across most variables, supporting classical test theory. Some normative changes were observed that reflected adolescent-typical development. Although, normative changes were relatively small compared to the stability of individual differences. The development of stable psychological characteristics during this period highlights a potential intervention window in early adolescence.
A negative bias in decoding positive social cues characterizes emotion processing in patients with symptom-remitted Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Kleindienst Nikolaus , Hauschild Sophie , Liebke Lisa , Thome Janine , Bertsch Katja , Hensel Saskia , Lis Stefanie
Published: November 2019

Background

Impairments in the domain of interpersonal functioning such as the feeling of loneliness and fear of abandonment have been associated with a negative bias during processing of social cues in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Since these symptoms show low rates of remission, high rates of recurrence and are relatively resistant to treatment, in the present study we investigated whether a negative bias during social cognitive processing exists in BPD even after symptomatic remission. We focused on facial emotion recognition since it is one of the basal social-cognitive processes required for successful social interactions and building relationships.

Methods

Ninety-eight female participants (46 symptom-remitted BPD [r-BPD]), 52 healthy controls [HC]) rated the intensity of anger and happiness in ambiguous (anger/happiness blends) and unambiguous (emotion/neutral blends) emotional facial expressions. Additionally, participants assessed the confidence they experienced in their own judgments.

Results

R-BPD participants assessed ambiguous expressions as less happy and as more angry when the faces displayed predominantly happiness. Confidence in these judgments did not differ between groups, but confidence in judging happiness in predominantly happy faces was lower in BPD patients with a higher level of BPD psychopathology.

Conclusions

Evaluating social cues that signal the willingness to affiliate is characterized by a negative bias that seems to be a trait-like feature of social cognition in BPD. In contrast, confidence in judging positive social signals seems to be a state-like feature of emotion recognition in BPD that improves with attenuation in the level of acute BPD symptoms.
Usage and comparison of artificial intelligence algorithms for determination of growth and development by cervical vertebrae stages in orthodontics
Authors: Kök Hatice , Acilar Ayse Merve , İzgi Mehmet Said
Published: November 2019

Background

Growth and development can be determined by cervical vertebrae stages that were defined on the cephalometric radiograph. Artificial intelligence has the ability to perform a variety of activities, such as prediction-classification in many areas of life, by using different algorithms, In this study, we aimed to determine cervical vertebrae stages (CVS) for growth and development periods by the frequently used seven artificial intelligence classifiers, and to compare the performance of these algorithms with each other.

Methods

Cephalometric radiographs, that were obtained from 300 individuals aged between 8 and 17 years were included in our study. Nineteen reference points were defined on second, third, and 4th cervical vertebrae, and 20 different linear measurements were taken. Seven algorithms of artificial intelligence that are frequently used in the field of classification were selected and compared. These algorithms are k-nearest neighbors (k-NN), Naive Bayes (NB), decision tree (Tree), artificial neural networks (ANN), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and logistic regression (Log.Regr.) algorithms.

Results

According to confusion matrices decision tree, CSV1 (97.1%)–CSV2 (90.5%), SVM: CVS3 (73.2%)–CVS4 (58.5%), and kNN: CVS 5 (60.9%)–CVS 6 (78.7%) were the algorithms with the highest accuracy in determining cervical vertebrae stages. The ANN algorithm was observed to have the second-highest accuracy values (93%, 89.7%, 68.8%, 55.6%, and 78%, respectively) in determining all stages except CVS5 (47.4% third highest accuracy value). According to the average rank of the algorithms in predicting the CSV classes, ANN was the most stable algorithm with its 2.17 average rank.

Conclusion

In our experimental study, kNN and Log.Regr. algorithms had the lowest accuracy values. SVM-RF-Tree and NB algorithms had varying accuracy values. ANN could be the preferred method for determining CVS.
Ab externo implantation of the MicroShunt, a poly (styrene-block-isobutylene-block-styrene) surgical device for the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma: a review
Authors: Sadruddin Omar , Pinchuk Leonard , Angeles Raymund , Palmberg Paul
Published: November 2019

Trabeculectomy remains the ‘gold standard’ intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering procedure for moderate-to-severe glaucoma; however, this approach is associated with the need for substantial post-operative management. Micro-invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) procedures aim to reduce the need for intra- and post-operative management and provide a less invasive means of lowering IOP. Generally, MIGS procedures are associated with only modest reductions in IOP and are targeted at patients with mild-to-moderate glaucoma, highlighting an unmet need for a less invasive treatment of advanced and refractory glaucoma. The PRESERFLO® MicroShunt (formerly known as InnFocus MicroShunt) is an 8.5 mm-long (outer diameter 350 μm; internal lumen diameter 70 μm) glaucoma drainage device made from a highly biocompatible, bioinert material called poly (styrene-block-isobutylene-block-styrene), or SIBS. The lumen size is sufficiently small that at normal aqueous flow hypotony is avoided, but large enough to avoid being blocked by sloughed cells or pigment. The MicroShunt achieves the desired pressure range in the eye by draining aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to a bleb formed under the conjunctiva and Tenon’s capsule. The device is implanted ab externo with intraoperative Mitomycin C via a minimally invasive (relative to incisional surgery) surgical procedure, enabling precise control of placement without the need for gonioscopy, suture tension control, or suture lysis. The implantation procedure can be performed in combination with cataract surgery or as a standalone procedure. The MicroShunt received Conformité Européenne (CE) marking in 2012 and is intended for the reduction of IOP in eyes of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma in which IOP remains uncontrolled while on maximum tolerated medical therapy and/or in which glaucoma progression warrants surgery. Three clinical studies assessing the long-term safety and efficacy of the MicroShunt have been completed; a Phase 3 multicenter, randomized clinical study comparing the MicroShunt to primary trabeculectomy is underway. In preliminary studies, the MicroShunt effectively reduced IOP and use of glaucoma medications up to 3 years after implantation, with an acceptable safety profile. This article summarizes current literature on the unique properties of the MicroShunt, the preliminary efficacy and safety findings, and discusses its potential use as an alternative to trabeculectomy for glaucoma surgery.
Cytogenotoxic and mutagenic profiling of cashew nut shell liquids and cardanol
Authors: Leite Aracelli de Sousa , Islam Muhammad Torequl , Paz Márcia Fernanda Correia Jardim , Júnior Antônio Luiz Gomes , Oliveira George Laylson da Silva , Cito Antônia Maria das Graças Lopes , Melo-Cavalcante Ana Amélia de Carvalho , Lopes José Arimatéia Dantas
Published: November 2019

Background

Cashew and its compounds have many important biological effects. This study is aimed at evaluating genotoxic and mutagenic effects of natural cashew nut shell liquid (nCNSL) and industrial cashew nut shell liquid (iCNSL) and a major component of iCNSL called Cardanol.

Methods

Test samples were undergone for comet assay and micronucleus tests inSwissalbino mice. Animals were orally treated with 17.37, 34.75 and 69.5 mg/kg of the test substances taking distilled water (10 mL/kg; DW) and cyclophosphamide (50 mg/kg) as negative (NC) and positive (PC) controls, respectively.

Results

The results suggest that nCNSL at 34.7 and 69.5 mg/kg and Cardanol at all tested doses induced significant genotoxic effects to the female mouse bone marrow cells, while iCNSL did not. Both nCNSL and iCNSL as well as Cardanol did not show mutagenic and cytotoxic effects. All the test samples also showed DNA repair capacity at low dose.

Conclusion

Cashew nut shell liquids and Cardanol showed genotoxic effects at high dose, but DNA repair, non-mutagenic and non-cytotoxic effects at low dose.
Changes in protein profile and encapsulation avoiding responses of entomopathogenic nematode in the American bollworm Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Istkhar  , Chaubey Ashok Kumar
Published: November 2019

The American bollworm Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a highly destructive agriculture pest of worldwide importance. The aim of the present study was to infect H. armigera larvae with entomopathogenic nematode juveniles for hematological study of proteins and encapsulation responses to evaluate using this nematode for the management of this pest. Total protein estimation and the electrophoretic profiling carried out in the hemolymph showed a high pathogenicity of Steinernema abbasi to H. armigera. The control group survived and succeeded to develop to adults, while the infected ones died within 24 h. An increase in the protein contents in the total and plasma hemolymph was observed just after 3 h of infection with an increase at 6 h and 9 h as symptoms of early defence of the insect. SDS-PAGE profile also showed an evolvement of a protein band of 46 kDa. No self-association or aggregation and binding of other proteins were found in the hemolymph as revealed by Native-PAGE. The encapsulation avoidance rate of nematode juvenile gave good results with (> 33%) in 2 IJs/larva to 5% in 20 IJs/larva doses at24 h post infection. Loss of hemolymph proteins continued for more than 24 h with a very low recognition of nematode rate in hemolymph, followed by the death of larvae within 48 h, which proved the high pathogenicity of S. abbasi and suppression of host immune system of H. armigera.
Imaging of a fluid injection process using geophysical data — A didactic example
Authors: Commer Michael , Pride Steven R. , Vasco Donald W. , Finsterle Stefan , Kowalsky Michael B.
Published: November 2019

In many subsurface industrial applications, fluids are injected into or withdrawn from a geologic formation. It is of practical interest to quantify precisely where, when, and by how much the injected fluid alters the state of the subsurface. Routine geophysical monitoring of such processes attempts to image the way that geophysical properties, such as seismic velocities or electrical conductivity, change through time and space and to then make qualitative inferences as to where the injected fluid has migrated. The more rigorous formulation of the time-lapse geophysical inverse problem forecasts how the subsurface evolves during the course of a fluid-injection application. Using time-lapse geophysical signals as the data to be matched, the model unknowns to be estimated are the multiphysics forward-modeling parameters controlling the fluid-injection process. Properly reproducing the geophysical signature of the flow process, subsequent simulations can predict the fluid migration and alteration in the subsurface. The dynamic nature of fluid-injection processes renders imaging problems more complex than conventional geophysical imaging for static targets. This work intents to clarify the related hydrogeophysical parameter estimation concepts.
Iterative deblending for simultaneous source data using the deep neural network
Authors: Zu Shaohuan , Cao Junxing , Qu Shan , Chen Yangkang
Published: November 2019

Simultaneous source technology can accelerate data acquisition and improve subsurface illumination. But those advantages are compromised due to dense interference. To address the intense interference in simultaneous source data, we have investigated a method based on a deep neural network. The designed architecture consists of convolutional and deconvolutional networks. The convolutional network can learn the local features of the training data set, and the deconvolutional network constructs the output using the extracted features to match the ground truth. Because the main computational cost results from the optimization of the network parameters, the trained network can separate simultaneous source data efficiently. Besides, with the given dithering code, we embed the trained network into an iterative framework that can further improve the deblending. A numerical test on synthetic data demonstrates that the iterative framework with the trained network can obtain comparable performance with high efficiency compared to the conventional method. Next, we test our method with two different trained networks (one is from a synthetic data set, and the other is from a field data set) on field data. The test results confirm the performance of our method.
Advanced Stage at Diagnosis and Worse Clinicopathologic Features in Young Women with Breast Cancer in Brazil: A Subanalysis of the AMAZONA III Study (GBECAM 0115)
Authors: Franzoi Maria Alice , Rosa Daniela D. , Zaffaroni Facundo , Werutsky Gustavo , Simon Sérgio , Bines José , Barrios Carlos , Cronemberger Eduardo , Queiroz Geraldo Silva , Cordeiro de Lima Vladmir , Júnior Ruffo Freitas , Couto José , Emerenciano Karla , Resende Heloísa , Crocamo Susanne , Reinert Tomás , Van Eyli Brigitte , Nerón Yeni , Dybal Vanessa , Lazaretti Nicolas , de Cassia Costamillan Rita , Pinto de Andrade Diocésio Alves , Mathias Clarissa , Vacaro Giovana Zerwes , Borges Giuliano , Morelle Alessandra , Filho Carlos Alberto Sampaio , Mano Max , Liedke Pedro E. R.
Published: November 2019

PURPOSE

Breast cancer (BC) in young women is uncommon and tends to present with more aggressive characteristics. To better understand and characterize this scenario in Brazil through real-world data, we performed a subanalysis of AMAZONA III study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02663973 ).

METHODS

The AMAZONA III study (GBECAM 0115) is a prospective registry that included 2,950 women newly diagnosed with invasive BC in Brazil from January 2016 until March 2018 at 22 sites. Valid data were obtained from 2,888 patients regarding age at diagnosis and complete baseline information. To compare epidemiologic and clinicopathological features at the time of diagnosis, patients with BC were divided into two groups according to age: ≤ 40 years and > 40 years. Quantitative variables were described as means, and categorical variables were described as frequencies and percentages and compared using the Pearson’s χ2 test.

RESULTS

Of 2,888 women diagnosed with BC, 486 (17%) were ≤ 40 years old. Young women had higher educational level, most were employed and a significant number were married ( P < .001 for all associations). Younger patients were more symptomatic at BC diagnosis ( P < .001), and they also presented more frequently with stage III, T3/T4, grade 3 tumors, HER-2–positive, luminal B, and triple-negative subtypes.

CONCLUSION

Brazilian women younger than age 40 years have unfavorable clinicopathological features of BC at diagnosis, with more aggressive subtypes and advanced stage when compared with older women. These differences are not explained by socioeconomic or ethnic imbalances. The causes of a higher prevalence of BC among young women in Brazil deserve additional investigation.
Case Report: Case report: A rare case of middle-ear Rhabdomyosarcoma in a 4-year-old boy
Authors: Menzies-Wilson Richard , Wong Gentle , Das Prodip
Published: November 2019

We present a rare case of a four-year-old boy with a botyroid embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the right middle ear. Rhabdomyosarcoma is a soft tissue malignancy which is thought to originate from embryonic mesenchymal cells of striated skeletal muscle.  It is a disease primarily of children and is exceptionally rare in parameningeal regions.  The diagnosis is often delayed and easily misdiagnosed as aural polyp. Therefore, advanced disease is common at the time of diagnosis.  A four-year-old boy presented with a four-month history of recurrent left ear blood and pus discharge, otalgia and fevers. He attended his GP three times and paediatric A&E 13 times where he received antibiotics for presumed otitis media and externa. He was eventually referred to the otolaryngology department and underwent an examination under anaesthesia of ear and excisional biopsy of a suspicious aural polyp.  Staging chest CT and PET scan showed no loco-regional spread or distal metastasis. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated absence of invasion into adjacent organs.  Histology confirmed embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, botryoid subtype.  Subsequent to the initial excision of the polyp, he was started on an ifosfamine, vincristine and actinomycin (IVA) chemotherapy regime in three weekly cycles for nine cycles with concomitant radiotherapy. Two weeks subsequent to his first chemotherapy dose he presented with a House-Brackmann II-III facial nerve palsy but no other middle ear complications. He was started on intravenous antibiotics and dexamethasone. The facial nerve palsy incompletely resolved with treatment.
Congenital microcephaly unrelated to flavivirus exposure in coastal Kenya
Authors: Barsosio Hellen C. , Gitonga John N. , Karanja Henry K. , Nyamwaya Doris K. , Omuoyo Donwilliams O. , Kamau Everlyn , Hamaluba Mainga M. , Nyiro Joyce U. , Kitsao Barnes S. , Nyaguara Amek , Mwakio Stella , Newton Charles R. , Sang Rosemary , Wright Daniel , Sanders Eduard J. , Seale Anna C. , Agoti Charles N. , Berkley James A. , Bejon Philip , Warimwe George M.
Published: November 2019

Background: Zika virus (ZIKV) was first discovered in East Africa in 1947.  ZIKV has caused microcephaly in the Americas, but it is not known whether ZIKV is a cause of microcephaly in East Africa.

Methods: We used surveillance data from 11,061 live births at Kilifi County Hospital in coastal Kenya between January 2012 and October 2016 to identify microcephaly cases and conducted a nested case-control study to determine risk factors for microcephaly. Gestational age at birth was estimated based on antenatal ultrasound scanning (‘Scanned cohort’) or last menstrual period (‘LMP cohort’, including births ≥37 weeks’ gestation only). Controls were newborns with head circumference Z scores between >-2 and ≤2 SD that were compared to microcephaly cases in relation to ZIKV exposure and other maternal and newborn factors.

Results: Of the 11,061 newborns, 214 (1.9%, 95%CI 1.69, 2.21) had microcephaly. Microcephaly prevalence was 1.0% (95%CI 0.64, 1.70, n=1529) and 2.1% (95%CI 1.81, 2.38, n=9532) in the scanned and LMP cohorts, respectively. After excluding babies <2500 g (n=1199) in the LMP cohort the prevalence was 1.1% (95%CI 0.93, 1.39). Microcephaly showed an association with being born small for gestational age (p<0.001) but not with ZIKV neutralising antibodies (p=0.6) or anti-ZIKV NS1 IgM response (p=0.9). No samples had a ZIKV neutralising antibody titre that was at least fourfold higher than the corresponding dengue virus (DENV) titre. No ZIKV or other flavivirus RNA was detected in cord blood from cases or controls.

Conclusions: Microcephaly was prevalent in coastal Kenya, but does not appear to be related to ZIKV exposure; the ZIKV response observed in our study population was largely due to cross-reactive responses to DENV or other related flaviviruses. Further research into potential causes and the clinical consequences of microcephaly in this population is urgently needed.
Parquetting the Surface of a Parabolic Concentrator of a Solar Photovoltaic Thermal Module According to Given Differential- Geometric Requirements
Authors: Синицын Сергей , Sinitsyn Sergey , Стребков Д. , Strebkov D. , Панченко Владимир , Panchenko Vladimir
Published: November 2019

The article discusses the geometric aspects of the design and creation of parabolic-type solar radiation concentrators. Practical methods of geometric design and manufacturing of concentrators of this kind are presented. Parabolic type concentrator is the main part of the solar photovoltaic thermal installation. Its effectiveness depends on the quality factors of the geometric shaping of the working surface, composed of a set of parquet components, linked to each other on the basis of differential geometric requirements. The distribution of illumination in the focal spot of such a concentrator, made by parquet based on the constructive connection of individual elements, makes it possible to obtain acceptable results. However, there is considerable potential for improving performance by providing a smoother and more uniform illumination of the photodetector. To ensure the specified accuracy and smoothness of the rim of the surface at the stages of designing and manufacturing the device, two methods are proposed: orthogonal and fan-shaped geometric parquetting of the surface of a parabolic concentrator with the ability to pre-set the required shape accuracy for given rim geometrical characteristics. Parquetting with given differential requirements for the surface, in turn, provides for two methods for calculating parquet elements: first, by the minimum number of curvilinear elements followed by stitching, taking into account the differential conditions; the second is based on the maximum number of flat elements, the multiplicity of which provides acceptable smooth surface properties. In this paper, we consider the first method for cases of orthogonal and fan parquet. On the example of a parabolic concentrator, the implementation of the considered method is presented, which provides for the possibility of controlling the geometric smoothness of the concentrator surface in order to ensure optimal distribution of concentrated solar radiation in the focal region. The output characteristics of photovoltaic and thermal converters of solar energy, which are in the focus of such a concentrator, become optimal, and the installation itself will operate in nominal mode.
Approximation of Linear Sets in the Plane
Authors: Юрков В. , Yurkov V.
Published: November 2019

A few general lines in the ordinary Euclidean plane are said to be line generators of a plane linear set. To be able to say that every line of the set belongs to one-parametrical line set we have to find their envelope. We thus create a pencil of lines. In this article it will be shown that there are a finite number of pencils in one linear set. To find a pencil of lines the linear parametrical approximation is applied. Almost all of problems concerning the parametrical approximation of figure sets are well known and deeply developed for any point sets. The problem of approximation for non-point sets is an actual one. The aim of this paper is to give a path to parametrical approximation of linear sets defined in plane. The sets are discrete and consist of finite number of lines without any order. Each line of the set is given as y = ax + b. Parametrical approximation means a transformation the discrete set of lines into completely continuous family of lines. There are some problems. 1. The problem of order. It is necessary to represent the chaotic set of lines as well-ordered one. The problem is solved by means of directed circuits. Any of chaotic sets has a finite number of directed circuits. To create an order means to find all directed circuits in the given set. 2. The problem of choice. In order to find the best approximation, for example, the simplest one it is necessary to choose the simplest circuit. Some criteria of the choice are discussed in the paper. 3. Interpolation the set of line factors. A direct approach would simply construct an interpolation for all line factors. But this can lead to undesirable oscillations of the line family. To eliminate the oscillations the special factor interpolation are suggested. There are linear sets having one or several multiple points, one or several multiple lines and various combinations of multiple points and lines. Some theorems applied to these cases are formulated in the paper.
Extending the mental health expertise of school nurses: Evaluating a training programme
Authors: Abbott Stephen , Bryar Rosamund , Cohen Ruth , Gibbons Jane , Marks Lucy
Published: November 2019

This paper reports an evaluation of a training programme to enhance the skills and confidence of school nurses in addressing mental health and emotional wellbeing issues among school children. The training was offered to school nurses and nursery nurses in one school health service in London. The evaluation drew on face-to-face semi-structured interviews with, and online contributions from, school health staff members. There was evidence of considerable satisfaction with training; of attitude change; of increased confidence, knowledge and skills in addressing mental health issues; and of changes in practice. The evaluation illustrates how, in a favourable context where staff feel respected and supported, well-designed training programmes can deliver changes in practice.
Upgrading of Performance of Diffusion Absorption Refrigeration System
Authors: Öztas Sinan , Gürü Metin , Sözen Adnan , Kilinc Cuma , Gülseven Zafer
Published: November 2019

This paper deals with the effects of absorbent used on the thermal performance of commercial diffusion absorption refrigeration systems (DARSs). For this purpose, an ammonia solution with added lithium bromide was used in the DARS system instead of a commercial ammonia solution of NH3-H2O (NH4OH) (25% ammonia and 75% water), and all comparison experiments used a fixed amount of refrigerant to experimentally investigate the effects on performance. The system cooling performance was calculated by means of experimental data. The performance of all the solutions prepared was compared to each other. The added lithium bromide increased the amount of water absorbed by the coolant, increasing the amount of refrigerant carried to the generator and condenser. Consequently, the thermal efficiency of the system was increased. By using a 5% solution of lithium bromide with the ammonia solution, the thermal performance increased by up to 12%. It was concluded that lithium bromide has a higher refrigerant absorption capability than water in diffusion absorption refrigeration systems.
Role of echography in the diagnosis of endemic goiter
Authors: Bolotova N. V. , Lisenkova L. A. , Scheplyagina L. A. , Glukhova T. V. , Kruglov A. V. , Perepelova Ye. M.
Published: November 2019

Screening of 1520 children living in the Khvalynsk district of the Saratov region, including assessment of urinary excretion of iodine and ultrasonic examinations of the thyroid in children and adults, revealed endemic goiter in the region. Special attention was paid to echographic examination of the thyroid; this method was used in examinations of 161 children aged 2 to 14 with thyroid enlargement of the IIII degree. 103 (64.0 %) of there children had enlarged thyroid, in some children with diffusely enlarged thyroid of the I II dergee ultrasonic examination showed no enlargement, and in some children the gland was found even reduced in size. The greatest discrepancy between the data of palpation and ultrasonography was observed in first-degree thyroid enlargement, the least so in second-degree enlargement; in third-degree enlargement there was no such a discrepancy. Assessment of thyroid structure revealed various disorders of the organ in 29 of the 161 examined children, these disorders present both in enlarged glands and in those of normal or reduced size. Nodes that could not be palpated were detected in 2 children. Ultrasonic examinations of 56 adults aged 20 to 60 revealed changed structure of the thyroid in 35, with nodes of various sizes and localization detected in 15 of these.
Troubles oro-faciaux dans Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. Revue systématique.
Authors: Garcia Paola , Coibion France , Garcia-Lopez Carlos
Published: November 2019

La fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva ou myosite ossifiante est une maladie autosomique dominante très rare. La maladie est caractérisée par l’apparition

progressive de calcifications ectopiques dans les tendons, les muscles striés, les ligaments et les fascias. Elles entrainent une perte de mobilité progressive du corps

allant jusqu’à un handicap physique sévère. Le présent travail est une revue systématique de la littérature concernant les aspects oro-faciaux de cette

pathologie rare. Des pistes de prise en charge de ces patients au niveau dentaire et maxillo-facial sont aussi proposées.
Normkonform, non-konform, ganz normal abweichend
Authors: Nowak Ewa
Published: November 2019

Gesine Drews-Sylla, cheap Elisabeth Dütschke, pilule Halyna Leontiy, sales Elena Polledri (Hrsg.), Konstruierte Normalitäten ? normale Abweichungen. VS Research Verlag für Sozialwissenschaften / Springer, Wiesbaden 2010, S. 328.
The Task of a Naturalist: An Epitaph for Philippa Foot (1920-2010)
Authors: Makowski Piotr
Published: November 2019

Philippa Foot once said: I'm not clever at all. I have a certain insight into philosophy, cost I think. But I'm not clever, I don't find complicated arguments easy to follow(Baggini, 2003). Foot's cleverness enticed many thinkers to take these Gombrowiczian lines seriously.
The Relevance of the Idea of “Community of Inquiry” to Contemporary Ethics. In memory of Matthew Lipman (†2010)
Authors: Tibaldeo Roberto Franzini
Published: November 2019

Problematic and complex aspects of democratic life ? such as the teaching of the concept of civil liberties, the spreading of responsible participation and pluralistic dialogue, the mutual understanding of different cultures and individuals, and the fulfilment of a common civil life based upon shared rules, procedures, and reasonable dialogue ? are not yet solved and certainly need to be frequently revisited and reviewed
Narratives of (Mad) Desire
Authors: Airaksinen Timo
Published: November 2019

Satisfied desires make you happy. Desires are fantasy narratives a  person tells about her life and goals. They focus on intentional objects that are happiness-makers for the person: to achieve them is supposed to make one happy. Normally, such objects are good things and their context is seen in a positive manner. However, the goals may also be hurtful, as the person herself sees it. These are, at least sometimes, mad desires. To explain them, it is not enough to say that they are impulsive and irrational, unconscious, or that they are good in disguise. I explain what this means and give some examples. I also consider the thesis that satisfaction of desire is less than full happiness, which may well be true. This becomes clear when we think of moral choices.