bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with epiphora following orbital‐sparing maxillectomy via modified Weber–Ferguson incision with lower blepharoplasty
Authors: Pitak‐Arnnop Poramate , Subbalekha Keskanya , Meningaud Jean‐Paul , Sirintawat Nattapong , Auychai Prim , Tangmanee Chatpong , Wunsch Annette , Neff Andreas
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The aims of the study were to estimate the frequency of epiphora and to identify factors associated with epiphora after orbital‐sparing maxillectomy via modified Weber–Ferguson incision with lower blepharoplasty (OSOSM‐MWFILB).

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study enrolling a sample derived from the patient population undergoing OSM‐MWFILB over a 7‐year period. The predictor variables were grouped into demographic, related health status, anatomic, tumor‐specific, and therapeutic categories. The primary outcome variable was the presence of postmaxillectomy epiphora (PME). Descriptive, univariate, and multivariate regression mixed‐effect models were computed.

Results

The study sample was composed of 134 patients (46.3% females; 71.6% squamous cell carcinomas) with a mean age of 64.7 ± 12.2 years. There were 23 (17.2%) PME events, which were significantly associated with eight variables: male gender, poor general health (ASA III–IV), large vertical defect (Brown and Shaw's class III–IV), squamous cell carcinoma tumor type, big tumor size (T3‐4), cervical lymph node metastasis (N1‐2), long operating time > 3 h, and adjuvant radio(chemo)therapy in both univariate mixed regression and multivariate Cox hazards analyses. Healing of PME in irradiated patients was significantly delayed.

Conclusions

Ophthalmologic consequences in patients undergoing OSM‐MWFILB require particular attention, especially in case of advanced tumors, multiple comorbidities, or long surgery with postoperative radio(chemo)therapy. This emphasizes the importance of appropriate cooperation between the surgeons and ophthalmic colleagues.
Distribution of Competition Potential Between Native Ungulates and Free‐Roaming Equids on Western Rangelands
Authors: Stoner David C. , Anderson Michael T. , Schroeder Cody A. , Bleke Cole A. , Thacker Eric T.
Published: February 2021

Free‐roaming equids (i.e., feral horses [Equus caballus] and burros [Equus asinus]) are widely distributed and locally abundant across the rangelands of the western United States. The 1971 Wild Free Roaming Horse and Burro Act (WFRHBA) gave the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and United States Forest Service (USFS) the legal authority to manage these animals on designated public lands. To fulfill this responsibility, federal agencies established an Appropriate Management Level (AML), defined as the number of horses or burros that can be sustained on a given management unit under prevailing environmental conditions and land uses. Although the WFRHBA specifies that feral equids must be managed in ecological balance with other land uses, including conservation of native wildlife, population control measures such as gathers, contraception, and adoptions have failed to keep pace with intrinsic growth rates. Over 80% of federally managed herds currently exceed prescribed population levels, making the potential for competition between native ungulates and feral equids a growing concern among state wildlife agencies. Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), elk (Cervus canadensis), and bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) are of ecological and economic value to the states where they occur, and all exhibit some degree of distributional, habitat, or dietary overlap with horses or burros. Notwithstanding the scale of the problem, to date there have been no range‐wide assessments of competition potential among native and feral ungulates for space, forage, or water. To address this need, we compiled demographic, jurisdictional, and species occurrence data collected from 2010–2019 by federal and state agencies. We used these data to map the distributions of 4 native ungulate species across federal equid management units (FEMUS) in 10 western states (n = 174). We then made within‐state rankings of the 50 units that were ≥2 times over AML and encompassed ≥3 native ungulates. Collectively, FEMUs covered approximately 225,000 km2, representing 18% of all BLM and USFS lands in affected states. Each FEMU supported ≥1 native ungulate and 14% contained all 4. The degree of overlap between native and feral species varied by state, ranging from <1% for mule deer in Montana, to 40% for bighorn sheep in Nevada. Oregon had the largest proportion of units that supported all 4 native ungulates (58%), whereas Montana and New Mexico had the fewest equids, but all populations were over target densities. Despite the perception that the problem of equid abundance is limited to the Great Basin states, high intrinsic growth rates and social constraints on management practices suggest all affected states should monitor range conditions and native ungulate demography in areas where forage and water resources are limited and expanding equid populations are a concern. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.
Salt‐Induced Changes in Sol‐to‐Gel Transition and Structure of Stereocomplexable Poly(lactic acid)/Poly(ethylene glycol) Copolymers
Authors: Bao Jianna , Mao Hailiang , Li Xiang , Zhou Jiale , Dong Xiaolei , Chen Shichang , Zhang Xianming , Chen Wenxing
Published: February 2021

While stereocomplexable hydrogels composed of poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA)– poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)–PLLA and poly(d‐lactic acid) (PDLA)–PEG–PDLA have been widely investigated, very few studies have reported the influence of salts on thermogelling behaviors in corresponding aqueous solutions. In this study, NaCl is selected as a model and stereocomplexable solutions with a wide range of salt concentrations (0–3 wt%) are prepared with the aim to tune Ts‐g. When polymer concentration is 8 wt%, the resulting hydrogels containing 1 wt% NaCl exhibits a notably lower Ts‐g of 34 °C, while salt‐free system shows a Ts‐g of 42 °C. The presence of NaCl leads to a higher content of stereocomplex crystallites, a larger size of micelle clusters, an amplified distance of interclusters and a smaller thickness of micelle shell, which is supposed to be ascribed to the salts effect on ion–water and water–PEG interactions and increased hydrophobicity of enantiomeric micelles by NaCl. For hydrogels governed by self‐assembly of micelles and stereocomplexation, this study provides a safe, practical, and feasible way to tune the thermogelling behaviors and physical properties by the addition of salts.
Weekly Paclitaxel-Induced Neurotoxicity in Breast Cancer: Outcomes and Dose Response
Authors: Timmins Hannah C. , Li Tiffany , Trinh Terry , Kiernan Matthew C. , Harrison Michelle , Boyle Frances , Friedlander Michael , Goldstein David , Park Susanna B.
Published: February 2021

Background

Paclitaxel treatment produces significant peripheral neuropathy, but the time course of neuropathy development and outcomes are unclear. Dose reduction is the only strategy to prevent neurotoxicity, however, the impact of dose-reduction on neuropathy outcomes remains unknown. This study aimed to prospectively evaluated neuropathy development from weekly paclitaxel treatment and evaluate the impact of dose-reduction on post-treatment neuropathy outcomes.

Patients and Methods

Breast cancer patients receiving paclitaxel (80mg/m2) weekly for 12-weeks were prospectively assessed using patient reported (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecologic Oncology Group-Neurotoxicity; FACTGOG-Ntx), clinical (Total Neuropathy Score clinical version; TNSc) and neurophysiological measures up to 12-months post completion. The impact of dose-reduction on post-treatment (3.6 ± 0.1 months) clinical and patient reported outcomes was evaluated in 105 weekly paclitaxel-treated patients.

Results

Significant neuropathy was present by 6-weeks across patient-reported, clinical, and objective neurophysiological assessments, increasing in prevalence and severity over the treatment course. Limited recovery occurred, with significant neuropathy being maintained up to 12 months (p < .05). Patients who received dose reduction had worse patient reported (FACT-GOG-Ntx: 40.2 ± .1.4) and clinical neuropathy outcomes (TNSc: 4.3 ± 0.4) compared to those who received the full dose (FACT-GOG-Ntx: 45.9 ± 0.9; TNSc: 3.3 ± 0.3, p < .05). Patients who ceased treatment early demonstrated the worse deficits (TNSc: 5.0 ± 0.6; FACT-GOG-Ntx: 37.3 ± 2.7) compared to those who received the complete dose (TNSc: 3.5 ± 0.3; FACT-GOG-Ntx: 45.3 ± 0.9, p < .05).

Conclusion

Weekly paclitaxel produces symptomatic and objective neuropathy early in the treatment course which can persist. Dose reduction does not necessarily lead to more favorable neuropathy outcomes, with individual risk factors likely important in addition to cumulative dose.

Implications for Practice

Weekly paclitaxel schedules are extensively used in breast cancer. Patients may develop symptomatic and objective neuropathy early in the treatment course, with these individuals requiring closer monitoring. Furthermore, neuropathy is a long-term sequela that may impact quality of life and require appropriate supportive services. Results suggest that dose reduction does not necessarily lead to better neuropathy outcomes. Understanding schedule-specific toxicity and risk factors for neuropathy will be critical to determining individualized treatment strategies and improving quality of life in breast cancer survivors.
Safety of Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Central Nervous System Malignancies
Authors: Swartz Andrew W. , Drappatz Jan
Published: February 2021

Patients with brain tumors are at high risk for thromboembolic complications and frequently require anticoagulation. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are a less burdensome treatment for cancer-associated thrombosis with safety and efficacy comparable to those of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH); however, there are few data to support the use of DOACs in patients with brain tumors. The purpose of this study was to better understand the safety profile of anticoagulants in patients with primary and metastatic brain tumors, with particular interest in the safety and efficacy of DOACs. Our hypothesis was that DOACs are as safe and effective as LWMH in this population. This study was conducted through a single-center retrospective chart review of 125 patients with primary and metastatic brain tumors on anticoagulation. Our primary outcomes were major bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), with secondary outcomes of minor bleeding and recurrent thrombosis. The rate of major bleeding was 26% in the LMWH group versus 9.6% in the DOAC group (p = .03). The rate of ICH was 15% in the LMWH group versus 5.8% in the DOAC group (p = .09). The severity of ICH in both groups was low with median Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5 scores of 2 in the LMWH group and 3 in the DOAC group. The rates of minor bleeding and recurrent thrombosis were low in both groups. Our conclusion is that DOAC use in patients with brain tumors is not associated with increased rates of major bleeding compared with LMWH and is a safe and effective option.

Implications for Practice

Patients with brain tumors are at high risk for venous thromboembolism and frequently require anticoagulation. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are less burdensome than low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for treatment of thromboembolism, but there is concern in the community over increased risk of bleeding. This study provides much-needed objective evidence that there are fewer major bleeding events in patients with brain tumors on DOACs compared to LMWH with similar efficacy. As the paradigm of anticoagulation in patients with cancer shifts from LWMH toward DOACs, this work is particularly meaningful as it suggests DOACs are safe and effective for patients with brain tumors.
RAS pathway mutation is an added‐value biomarker in pediatric Philadelphia‐negative B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia with IKZF1 deletions
Authors: Huang Ying‐Jung , Liu Hsi‐Che , Jaing Tang‐Her , Wu Kang‐Hsi , Wang Shih‐Chung , Yen Hsiu‐Ju , Hsiao Chih‐Cheng , Chen Shih‐Hsiang , Lin Pei‐Chin , Yeh Ting‐Chi , Sheen Jiunn‐Ming , Chen Yu‐Chieh , Chang Te‐Kau , Huang Fang‐Liang , Chao Yu‐Hua , Hou Jen‐Yin , Yang Chao‐Ping , Lin Tung‐Huei , Shih Lee‐Yung
Published: February 2021

Background

IKZF1deletion is an unfavorable factor in Philadelphia negative (Ph ‐) B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, the effects of IKZF1 deletions co‐existing genetic alterations in Ph (‐) ALL have not been extensively studied.

Methods

Bone marrow samples from 368 children with Ph (‐) ALL were analyzed by using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification kit for detection of gene deletions and Sanger sequencing for mutational analysis of RAS pathway genes. The outcome was analyzed on 215 patients treated with Taiwan Pediatric Oncology Group‐ALL‐2002 protocol.

Results

IKZF1 deletions were present in 12.8% and IKZF1plus in 6.3% of patients. Mutations of RAS pathway genes were detected in 25.0% of IKZF1‐deleted patients. The 10‐year event‐free survival (EFS) of IKZF1‐undeleted patients was significantly better compared with IKZF1‐deleted patients (80.0% vs. 47.8%, p = 0.001). Compared with outcome of patients harboring IKZF1 deletion alone, no difference in EFS was observed in patients with IKZF1plus, whereas three patients carried both IKZF1 and ERG deletions had a superior 10‐year EFS (100%). The 10‐year EFS of patients with any gene mutation of RAS pathway was worse than that of patients with wild‐type genes (79.1% vs. 61.6%, p = 0.033). In multivariate analysis, RAS pathway mutations and IKZF1 deletion were independent predictors of inferior EFS. Co‐existence of IKZF1 deletion with RAS pathway mutations had a worst 10‐year EFS (11.1 ± 10.5%) and 10‐year OS (53.3 ± 17.6%).

Conclusions

Our results showed that RAS pathway mutation is an added‐value biomarker in pediatric IKZF1‐deleted Ph (‐) ALL patients.
Modeling pressure relief devices mounted on a common inlet manifold
Authors: Prophet Neil , Lea Charles , Samayam Indira
Published: February 2021

Large equipment items, such as distillation column systems, compressors, or major pressure vessels, are commonly protected by multiple pressure relief devices mounted on a common inlet manifold. In selecting this type of design, the potential exists to inadvertently overlook the flow characteristics associated with such a common inlet manifold. The methodology discussed in this paper should effectively model flow through multiple pressure relief devices mounted on common inlet manifolds. This approach ensures accurate representation of flow through each pressure relief device while avoiding the potential pitfalls of taking shortcuts by only analyzing flow through one device.
Acid‐Promoted Cascade Reaction of 4H‐Chromenes: Access to Hexahydronapthalenes via Decarboxylative Intramolecular Cyclization
Authors: Kale Ashok , Medishetti Nagaraju , Babu Nanubolu Jagadeesh , Atmakur Krishnaiah
Published: February 2021

Acid promoted cascade reaction of 4H‐chromenes with propargylic alcohol was described using p‐toluene sulfonic acid (p‐TSA). The reaction proceeds through Meyer‐Schuster type of rearrangement of propargylic alcohol and subsequent reaction of 4H‐chromene with in situ generated allene followed by decarboxylative intramolecular cyclization leading to hexahydronapthalene scaffolds with good to excellent yield. Simple reaction conditions, high compatibility and excellent yields are the advantages of this protocol.
Effect of Thermal Treatment on the Phase Composition and Surface Properties of WO3‐TiO2 Nanocomposites Synthesized via Hydro‐Thermal Method
Authors: Shah Aarif Hussain , Rather Mushtaq Ahmad
Published: February 2021

There is a huge interest in the synthesis of nanocomposites with specific physicochemical properties. Calcination temperature affects the size, morphology and other surface characteristics. WO3‐TiO2 nanocomposites were synthesized by hydrothermal method using titanium (IV) butoxide and tungsten (VI) oxide (WO3). The effects of drying time and calcination temperature on the hydrodynamic particle diameter, crystallite size, shape and zeta potential of the nanocomposites was investigated. The samples were dried in oven at 80 °C for 18 hours, calcinated at 300 to 1000 °C and analyzed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM) and fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential were measured by particle analyzer (DLS). The mean crystallite size increased from 25.2 nm to 54.9 nm when calcination temperature increased from 300 to 1000 °C. Hydrodynamic size of the nanocomposite decreased with increasing drying time, became constant after 12 hours of drying and did not change significantly after that. Moreover, the hydrodynamic size increased with increase in the calcination temperature due to growth of the crystals and formation of inter particle necks. The large zeta values (−35.8 to −41.2 mV) suggest that the nanocomposites show large electrostatic repulsive interaction and enhanced stability in aqueous solutions.
Rational Construction of SiO2/MoS2/TiO2 Composite Nanostructures for Anti‐Biofouling and Anti‐Corrosion Applications
Authors: Steffi Alexander Pinky , Balaji Ramachandran , Chen Shen‐Ming , Prakash Natarajan , Narendhar Chandharasekar
Published: February 2021

We have prepared MoS2/SiO2/TiO2 ternary heterojunction composite for the anti‐corrosion and anti‐fouling applications. The molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) adorned silica (SiO2) nanoparticles are synthesized through the wet chemical process. The prepared MoS2/SiO2 composites is subjected for dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis to understand the particle size, then the X‐Ray diffraction (XRD) to determine the crystal structure and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) to characterize its morphology. The TiO2 nanoparticles are prepared through stober process. The prepared TiO2 nanoparticles along with MoS2/SiO2 composites are fused together in the natural resin for the construction of primary coating mixture (MoS2/SiO2/TiO2). The primary composite coating mixture is coated on the mild steel panels for the analysis. The contact angle analysis is done for the coated mild steel samples to get the insight on its hydrophobicity and the surface smoothness. Further, to perform the corrosion studies, the salt spray analysis is done on the mild steel panels. The MoS2/SiO2/TiO2 ternary heterojunction composite mixture performed well on the anti‐biofouling and anti‐corrosion investigation.
A New Approach for the Synthesis and Biological Activities of Novel Thiazolyl‐Pyrazole Derivatives
Authors: Masaret Ghada S.
Published: February 2021

According to the encouraging biological activity and low cytotoxicity profile of thiazolyl‐pyrazole hybrid, many researchers are making efforts in this research area. 2‐(2‐(5‐Acetyl‐4‐methylthiazol‐2‐yl)hydrazono)acenaphthylen‐1(2H)‐one (3) was synthesized by the reaction of acenaphthenequinone‐thiosemicarbazone (1) with 3‐chloroacetylacetone (2) and utilized as a precursor for the production of various thiazolyl‐pyrazole compounds. The reaction of 3 with DMF‐DMA followed by treating the produced enaminone 4 with hydrazines furnished the corresponding thiazolyl‐pyrazoles 5 a–c. In addition, 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of enaminone 4 with α‐ketohydrazonyl chlorides 6 through a regioselective manner gave thiazolyl‐pyrazoles 7 a–c. The reaction of 3 with arylhydrazines yielded the corresponding hydrazones 8 a–c, which were subjected to Vilsmeier formylation reaction and furnished the thiazolyl‐pyrazoles 9 a–c. Meanwhile, the synthesized thiazolyl‐pyrazoles were screened to discover their antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and antitumor activities. The antibacterial screening revealed that derivatives 7 a–c, 8 a–c, and 9 a–c demonstrated minimal inhibition concentrations toward B. subtilis and S. typhimurium. While derivatives 7 c and 9 c showed respectable antifungal effectiveness against C. albicans. Further, antioxidant effectiveness of the synthesized derivatives 7 a–c and 9 a–c revealed antioxidant activity superior to derivative 8 a–c and 5 a–c compared to ascorbic acid. Likewise, thiazolyl‐pyrazole derivatives 5 a–c displayed higher cytotoxic efficacy than their corresponding derivatives 9 a–c, 8 a–c and 7 a–c, respectively.
In‐Situ Synthesis of MoS2/BiOBr Material via Mechanical Ball Milling for Boosted Photocatalytic Degradation Pollutants Performance
Authors: Yin Weiqing , Cao Xujing , Wang Bin , Jiang Qi , Chen Zhigang , Xia Jiexiang
Published: February 2021

A novel visible‐light‐driven MoS2/BiOBr composite material is prepared in situ under normal temperature and pressure conditions through the efficient, green and energy‐saving ionic liquid‐assisted mechanical ball milling method. Under visible light irradiation, the MoS2/BiOBr composite exhibits enhanced photocatalytic degradation tetracycline (TC) activity than that of BiOBr monomer. Among them, 1.0 wt % MoS2/BiOBr exhibits the best photocatalytic degradation activity and can degrade 68 % of TC within 120 min, which is 30 % improvement in performance compared to BiOBr monomer. The introduction of MoS2 promotes the photocatalytic performance of the composite material, which is mainly attributed to the increased specific surface area, enhanced visible light absorption capacity and excellent photo‐generated carrier separation and transfer efficiency. Electron spin resonance, radical trapping experiments and XPS valence band spectroscopy confirmed that superoxide radicals and holes are the main active species in the photocatalytic process.
Partial deconfinement at strong coupling on the lattice
Authors: Watanabe Hiromasa , Bergner Georg , Bodendorfer Norbert , Funai Shotaro Shiba , Hanada Masanori , Rinaldi Enrico , Schäfer Andreas , Vranas Pavlos
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We provide evidence for partial deconfinement — the deconfinement of a SU(M) subgroup of the SU(N) gauge group — by using lattice Monte Carlo simulations. We take matrix models as concrete examples. By appropriately fixing the gauge, we observe that the M × M submatrices deconfine. This gives direct evidence for partial deconfinement at strong coupling. We discuss the applications to QCD and holography.
On the nonexistence of a vacuum black lens
Authors: Lucietti James , Tomlinson Fred
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We demonstrate that five-dimensional, asymptotically flat, stationary and bi-axisymmetric, vacuum black holes with lens space L(n, 1) topology, possessing the simplest rod structure, do not exist. In particular, we show that the general solution on the axes and horizon, which we recently constructed by exploiting the integrability of this system, must suffer from a conical singularity on the inner axis component. We give a proof of this for two distinct singly spinning configurations and numerical evidence for the generic doubly spinning solution.
Resurgent analysis of SU(2) Chern-Simons partition function on Brieskorn spheres Σ(2, 3, 6n + 5)
Authors: Wu David H.
Published: February 2021

Abstract

$$ \hat{Z} $$

Z
̂

-invariants, which can reconstruct the analytic continuation of the SU(2) Chern-Simons partition functions via Borel resummation, were discovered by GPV and have been conjectured to be a new homological invariant of 3-manifolds which can shed light onto the superconformal and topologically twisted index of 3d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 theories proposed by GPPV. In particular, the resurgent analysis of $$ \hat{Z} $$

Z
̂

has been fruitful in discovering analytic properties of the WRT invariants. The resurgent analysis of these $$ \hat{Z} $$

Z
̂

-invariants has been performed for the cases of Σ(2, 3, 5), Σ(2, 3, 7) by GMP, Σ(2, 5, 7) by Chun, and, more recently, some additional Seifert manifolds by Chung and Kucharski, independently. In this paper, we extend and generalize the resurgent analysis of $$ \hat{Z} $$

Z
̂

on a family of Brieskorn homology spheres Σ(2, 3, 6n + 5) where n ∈ ℤ+ and 6n + 5 is a prime. By deriving $$ \hat{Z} $$

Z
̂

for Σ(2, 3, 6n + 5) according to GPPV and Hikami, we provide a formula where one can quickly compute the non-perturbative contributions to the full analytic continuation of SU(2) Chern-Simons partition function.
Revisiting relativistic magnetohydrodynamics from quantum electrodynamics
Authors: Hongo Masaru , Hattori Koichi
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We provide a statistical mechanical derivation of relativistic magnetohydrodynamics on the basis of (3 + 1)-dimensional quantum electrodynamics; the system endowed with a magnetic one-form symmetry. The conservation laws and constitutive relations are presented in a manifestly covariant way with respect to the general coordinate transformation. The method of the local Gibbs ensemble (or nonequilibrium statistical operator) combined with the path-integral formula for a thermodynamic functional enables us to obtain exact forms of constitutive relations. Applying the derivative expansion to exact formulas, we derive the first-order constitutive relations for nonlinear relativistic magnetohydrodynamics. Our results for the QED plasma preserving parity and charge-conjugation symmetries are equipped with two electrical resistivities and five (three bulk and two shear) viscosities. We also show that those transport coefficients satisfy the Onsager’s reciprocal relation and a set of inequalities, indicating semi-positivity of the entropy production rate consistent with the local second law of thermodynamics.
The eclectic flavor symmetry of the ℤ2 orbifold
Authors: Baur Alexander , Kade Moritz , Nilles Hans Peter , Ramos-Sánchez Saúl , Vaudrevange Patrick K. S.
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Modular symmetries naturally combine with traditional flavor symmetries and $$ \mathcal{CP} $$
CP
, giving rise to the so-called eclectic flavor symmetry. We apply this scheme to the two-dimensional ℤ2 orbifold, which is equipped with two modular symmetries SL(2, ℤ)T and SL(2, ℤ)U associated with two moduli: the Kähler modulus T and the complex structure modulus U. The resulting finite modular group is ((S3× S3) ⋊ ℤ4) × ℤ2 including mirror symmetry (that exchanges T and U) and a generalized $$ \mathcal{CP} $$
CP
-transformation. Together with the traditional flavor symmetry (D8× D8)/ℤ2, this leads to a huge eclectic flavor group with 4608 elements. At specific regions in moduli space we observe enhanced unified flavor symmetries with as many as 1152 elements for the tetrahedral shaped orbifold and $$ \left\langle T\right\rangle =\left\langle U\right\rangle =\exp \left(\frac{\pi \mathrm{i}}{3}\right) $$

T

=

U

=
exp

π
i

3

. This rich eclectic structure implies interesting (modular) flavor groups for particle physics models derived form string theory.
Gravitational wave signals of dark matter freeze-out
Authors: Marfatia Danny , Tseng Po-Yan
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We study the stochastic background of gravitational waves which accompany the sudden freeze-out of dark matter triggered by a cosmological first order phase transition that endows dark matter with mass. We consider models that produce the measured dark matter relic abundance via (1) bubble filtering, and (2) inflation and reheating, and show that gravitational waves from these mechanisms are detectable at future interferometers.
Soil microbial inoculation during flood events shapes headwater stream microbial communities and diversity
Authors: Caillon Florian , Besemer Katharina , Peduzzi Peter , Schelker Jakob
Published: February 2021

Flood events are now recognized as potentially important occasions for the transfer of soil microbes to stream ecosystems. Yet, little is known about these “dynamic pulses of microbial life” for stream bacterial community composition (BCC) and diversity. In this study, we explored the potential alteration of stream BCC by soil inoculation during high flow events in six pre-alpine first order streams and the larger Oberer Seebach. During 1 year, we compared variations of BCC in soil water, stream water and in benthic biofilms at different flow conditions (low to intermediate flows versus high flow). Bacterial diversity was lowest in biofilms, followed by soils and highest in headwater streams and the Oberer Seebach. In headwater streams, bacterial diversity was significantly higher during high flow, as compared to low flow (Shannon diversity: 7.6 versus 7.9 at low versus high flow, respectively, p < 0.001). Approximately 70% of the bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) from streams and stream biofilms were the same as in soil water, while in the latter one third of the OTUs were specific to high flow conditions. These soil high-flow OTUs were also found in streams and biofilms at other times of the year. These results demonstrate the relevance of floods in generating short and reoccurring inoculation events for flowing waters. Moreover, they show that soil microbial inoculation during high flow enhances microbial diversity and shapes fluvial BCC even during low flow. Hence, soil microbial inoculation during floods could act as a previously overlooked driver of microbial diversity in headwater streams.
Protein-dependent membrane remodeling in mitochondrial morphology and clathrin-mediated endocytosis
Authors: Tarasenko Daryna , Meinecke Michael
Published: February 2021

Cellular membranes can adopt a plethora of complex and beautiful shapes, most of which are believed to have evolved for a particular physiological reason. The closely entangled relationship between membrane morphology and cellular physiology is strikingly seen in membrane trafficking pathways. During clathrin-mediated endocytosis, for example, over the course of a minute, a patch of the more or less flat plasma membrane is remodeled into a highly curved clathrin-coated vesicle. Such vesicles are internalized by the cell to degrade or recycle plasma membrane receptors or to take up extracellular ligands. Other, steadier, membrane morphologies can be observed in organellar membranes like the endoplasmic reticulum or mitochondria. In the case of mitochondria, which are double membrane-bound, ubiquitous organelles of eukaryotic cells, especially the mitochondrial inner membrane displays an intricated ultrastructure. It is highly folded and consequently has a much larger surface than the mitochondrial outer membrane. It can adopt different shapes in response to cellular demands and changes of the inner membrane morphology often accompany severe diseases, including neurodegenerative- and metabolic diseases and cancer. In recent years, progress was made in the identification of molecules that are important for the aforementioned membrane remodeling events. In this review, we will sum up recent results and discuss the main players of membrane remodeling processes that lead to the mitochondrial inner membrane ultrastructure and in clathrin-mediated endocytosis. We will compare differences and similarities between the molecular mechanisms that peripheral and integral membrane proteins use to deform membranes.
Surgical management of Crohn’s disease: a state of the art review
Authors: Meima - van Praag Elise Maria , Buskens Christianne Johanna , Hompes Roel , Bemelman Wilhelmus Adrianus
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The aim of this review was to examine current surgical treatments in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and to discuss currently popular research questions.

Methods

A literature search of MEDLINE (PubMed) was conducted using the following search terms: ‘Surgery’ and ‘Crohn’. Different current surgical treatment strategies are discussed based on disease location.

Results

Several surgical options are possible in medically refractory or complex Crohn’s disease as a last resort therapy. Recent evidence indicated that surgery could also be a good alternative in terms of effectiveness, quality of life and costs as first-line therapy if biologicals are considered, e.g. ileocolic resection for limited disease, or as part of combination therapy with biologicals, e.g. surgery aiming at closure of select perianal fistula in combination with biologicals.

The role of the mesentery in ileocolic disease and Crohn’s proctitis is an important surgical dilemma. In proctectomy, evidence is directing at removing the mesentery, and in ileocolic disease, it is still under investigation. Other surgical dilemmas are the role of the Kono-S anastomosis as a preventive measure for recurrent Crohn’s disease and the importance of (non)conventional stricturoplasties.

Conclusion

Surgical management of Crohn’s disease remains challenging and is dependent on disease location and severity. Indication and timing of surgery should always be discussed in a multidisciplinary team. It seems that early surgery is gradually going to play a more important role in the multidisciplinary management of Crohn’s disease rather than being a last resort therapy.
Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections in the era of COVID-19: responding to different levels of epidemic pressure
Authors: Korobelnik Jean-François , Loewenstein Anat , Eldem Bora , Joussen Antonia M. , Koh Adrian , Lambrou George N. , Lanzetta Paolo , Li Xiaoxin , Lövestam-Adrian Monica , Navarro Rafael , Okada Annabelle A. , Pearce Ian , Rodríguez Francisco J. , Wong David T. , Wu Lihteh
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Following the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, the easing of strict measures to reduce its spread has led to a resurgence of cases in many countries at both the national and local level. This article addresses how guidance for ophthalmologists on managing patients with retinal disease receiving intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) during the pandemic should be adapted to the local epidemic pressure, with more or less stringent measures implemented according to the ebb and flow of the pandemic.

Methods

The Vision Academy’s membership of international retinal disease experts analyzed guidance for anti-VEGF intravitreal injections during the COVID-19 pandemic and graded the recommendations according to three levels of increasing epidemic pressure. The revised recommendations were discussed, refined, and voted on by the 14-member Vision Academy Steering Committee for consensus.

Results

Protocols to minimize the exposure of patients and healthcare staff to COVID-19, including use of personal protective equipment, physical distancing, and hygiene measures, should be routinely implemented and intensified according to local infection rates and pressure on the hospital/clinic or healthcare system. In areas with many COVID-19-positive clusters, additional measures including pre-screening of patients, postponement of non-urgent appointments, and simplification of complex intravitreal anti-VEGF regimens should be considered. Treatment prioritization for those at greatest risk of irreversible vision loss should be implemented in areas where COVID-19 cases are increasing exponentially and healthcare resources are strained.

Conclusion

Consistency in monitoring of local infection rates and adjustment of clinical practice accordingly will be required as we move forward through the COVID-19 era. Ophthalmologists must continue to carefully weigh the risk–benefits to minimize the exposure of patients and healthcare staff to COVID-19, ensure that patients receive sight-saving treatment, and avoid the potential long-term impact of prolonged treatment postponement.
ADHD at the workplace: ADHD symptoms, diagnostic status, and work-related functioning
Authors: Fuermaier Anselm B. M. , Tucha Lara , Butzbach Marah , Weisbrod Matthias , Aschenbrenner Steffen , Tucha Oliver
Published: February 2021

Adults diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) commonly experience impairments in multiple domains of daily living. Work has a central role in daily life and is susceptible to ADHD due to its cognitive demands. The present study seeks to examine the nature of work-related problems and impairments of adults with ADHD, and explores the association to ADHD symptoms and neuropsychological test performance. A community sample of 1231 individuals took part in this study and completed a set of questionnaires assessing ADHD symptoms and work-related problems. Furthermore, a clinical sample of 134 adults diagnosed with ADHD were recruited from an ADHD outpatient clinic, who completed the same set of questionnaires. A subsample of 51 patients with ADHD additionally performed a neuropsychological assessment using tests of attention and executive functions. Work-related problems were found both in individuals of the community sample with symptoms of ADHD and individuals diagnosed with ADHD. Individuals with ADHD reported work related problems particularly in not meeting their own standards and perceived potential, yet it less commonly manifests in negative performance evaluations at work or job loss. ADHD symptoms, in particular symptoms of inattention, were found to be strongly associated with work-related problems, whereas neuropsychological test performance was no meaningful predictor of functioning at work. This study emphasizes the susceptibility of individuals’ functioning at work to ADHD symptoms and impairments associated with ADHD. ADHD related difficulties at work should be considered in the clinical evaluation and targeted screening at the work place to provide support when indicated.
Dwarf Shrubs Impact Tundra Soils: Drier, Colder, and Less Organic Carbon
Authors: Kemppinen Julia , Niittynen Pekka , Virkkala Anna-Maria , Happonen Konsta , Riihimäki Henri , Aalto Juha , Luoto Miska
Published: February 2021

In the tundra, woody plants are dispersing towards higher latitudes and altitudes due to increasingly favourable climatic conditions. The coverage and height of woody plants are increasing, which may influence the soils of the tundra ecosystem. Here, we use structural equation modelling to analyse 171 study plots and to examine if the coverage and height of woody plants affect the growing-season topsoil moisture and temperature (< 10 cm) as well as soil organic carbon stocks (< 80 cm). In our study setting, we consider the hierarchy of the ecosystem by controlling for other factors, such as topography, wintertime snow depth and the overall plant coverage that potentially influence woody plants and soil properties in this dwarf shrub-dominated landscape in northern Fennoscandia. We found strong links from topography to both vegetation and soil. Further, we found that woody plants influence multiple soil properties: the dominance of woody plants inversely correlated with soil moisture, soil temperature, and soil organic carbon stocks (standardised regression coefficients = − 0.39; − 0.22; − 0.34, respectively), even when controlling for other landscape features. Our results indicate that the dominance of dwarf shrubs may lead to soils that are drier, colder, and contain less organic carbon. Thus, there are multiple mechanisms through which woody plants may influence tundra soils.
Neoadjuvant tyrosine kinase inhibitors in rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumours: a provision for enhanced oncological and functional outcomes
Authors: Yong Zachary Zihui , Wong Jolene Si Min , Teo Melissa Ching Ching , Chia Claramae Shulyn , Ong Chin-Ann Johnny , Farid Mohamad , Tan Grace Hwei Ching
Published: February 2021

Background

The role of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) in the neoadjuvant setting and the optimal duration of therapy remains poorly defined. As such, we aim to evaluate the impact of neoadjuvant TKI on oncological and functional outcomes in our cohort of patients with rectal GISTs.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 36 consecutive patients who underwent treatment for rectal GIST at the National Cancer Centre Singapore from February 1996 to October 2017 was analysed. Surgical, recurrence and survival outcomes between the groups who underwent neoadjuvant therapy and those who underwent upfront surgery were compared.

Results

Patients who received neoadjuvant treatment had significantly larger tumours (median size 7.1 vs. 6.0 cm, p = 0.04) and lower mitotic count (> 10 per 50 HPF, 14 vs. 70%, p = 0.03) when compared with the non-neoadjuvant group. With TKI pre-treatment (median duration 8.8 months), majority of patients (82%) achieved at least partial response to the therapy coupled with a significant downsizing effect of up to 39% (median size of 7.1–3.6 cm), resulting in similar rates of sphincter-sparing surgery (75 vs. 76%, p = 0.94) when compared with the non-neoadjuvant group. In general, neoadjuvant group had lower rates of local recurrence (0 vs. 69%, p = 0.04) and higher overall survival (7.4 vs. 5.7 years, p = 0.03) as compared to the non-neoadjuvant group.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant TKI has the benefit of downsizing unresectable rectal GIST to benefit from sphincter-sparing procedure and also confers protection against local recurrence and improves overall survival.
Analytic Process and Linguistic Style: Exploring Analysts’ Treatment Notes in the Light of Linguistic Measures of the Referential Process
Authors: Mariani Rachele , Hoffman Leon
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a comparison between a clinical evaluation and a computerized linguistic analysis of the treatment notes of the first two years of an analysis conducted four sessions a week with the patient lying on a couch. Clinical notes had been written as part of the analyst’s standard practice after every session, some years prior to the planning of this study. The notes describe the analytic interchange and the analyst’s internal thoughts. The linguistic analysis focuses on two analytically relevant linguistic variables: Referential Activity (RA), a measure of the degree of connection between emotional processing and language, and Reflection, the use of words referring to thoughts. The examination of the linguistic measures point to overlooked parts of sessions which may be clinically significant. In particular, the examination of the clinical material during the nodal points of the first summer break, where significant changes in the linguistic measures were seen, provided clinical understanding of the analytic work that was not explicitly noted at the time of treatment. This method has the potential to be utilized in ongoing treatments and to improve the supervisory process.
A Deep Learning Algorithm for High-Dimensional Exploratory Item Factor Analysis
Authors: Urban Christopher J. , Bauer Daniel J.
Published: February 2021

Marginal maximum likelihood (MML) estimation is the preferred approach to fitting item response theory models in psychometrics due to the MML estimator’s consistency, normality, and efficiency as the sample size tends to infinity. However, state-of-the-art MML estimation procedures such as the Metropolis–Hastings Robbins–Monro (MH-RM) algorithm as well as approximate MML estimation procedures such as variational inference (VI) are computationally time-consuming when the sample size and the number of latent factors are very large. In this work, we investigate a deep learning-based VI algorithm for exploratory item factor analysis (IFA) that is computationally fast even in large data sets with many latent factors. The proposed approach applies a deep artificial neural network model called an importance-weighted autoencoder (IWAE) for exploratory IFA. The IWAE approximates the MML estimator using an importance sampling technique wherein increasing the number of importance-weighted (IW) samples drawn during fitting improves the approximation, typically at the cost of decreased computational efficiency. We provide a real data application that recovers results aligning with psychological theory across random starts. Via simulation studies, we show that the IWAE yields more accurate estimates as either the sample size or the number of IW samples increases (although factor correlation and intercepts estimates exhibit some bias) and obtains similar results to MH-RM in less time. Our simulations also suggest that the proposed approach performs similarly to and is potentially faster than constrained joint maximum likelihood estimation, a fast procedure that is consistent when the sample size and the number of items simultaneously tend to infinity.
Selecting the best product alternative in a sea of uncertainty
Authors: Heijungs Reinout
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Most LCA studies are comparative and to an increasing extent the effects uncertainty are included in LCA results. This raises the question how the best option from a set of product alternatives can be selected when the product scores are uncertain. The starting point of this article is a set of Monte Carlo results for a number of alternative products.

Indicators for single product alternatives

First we discuss different ways of expressing results for product alternatives separately. This includes a discussion of centrality (mean, median, geometric mean, etc.) and dispersion (standard deviation, standard error, confidence interval, etc.).

Indicators of difference for two product alternatives

A critical review of approaches to single out the superior option on case of a comparison of two is given. This includes familiar approaches such as $$t$$
t
tests, but also lesser known ones such the Bhattacharyya coefficient and Cohen’s $$d$$
d
. All approaches are defined, discussed, and illustrated with one consistent, downloadable, example.

More than two product alternatives

The findings for two products are generalized for the multi-product situation. In particular, the issue of inflation of type I errors in multiple comparisons is discussed.

Discussion

Two main questions are identified: (1) What is the probability that a randomly selected specimen of product A performs better than a randomly selected specimen of product B? (2) How much will a randomly selected specimen of product A perform better than a randomly selected specimen of product B? These two options can both be relevant, but existing approaches for distinguishing product alternatives address one of these two only, or they even turn out to answer a different, less relevant, question. A proposal for a new indicator that addresses both questions simultaneously is offered and its use is illustrated.
A fluorine turns a medicinal benzodiazepine into NPS: the case of flualprazolam
Authors: Ntoupa Panagoula-Stamatina A. , Papoutsis Ioannis I. , Dona Artemisia A. , Spiliopoulou Chara A. , Athanaselis Sotiris A.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to summarize the existing knowledge on flualprazolam, a novel ‘designer’ benzodiazepine that derives from the fluorination of the phenyl moiety in the ortho-position of alprazolam.

Methods

An extensive literature search was carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar and World Wide Web using relevant keywords. All articles found were gathered, and the available information is presented.

Results

This article reviews the existing knowledge on chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, prevalence and current legal status of flualprazolam. Moreover, forensic and clinical cases where flualprazolam was involved worldwide, as well as flualprazolam seizures, along with the methods for its determination in biological samples are presented.

Conclusions

The recent flualprazolam-related cases have raised concerns to regulatory authorities and international stakeholders suggesting that flualprazolam should be under international control. The urgent international control of flualprazolam, despite the limited information on clinical effects and pharmacologic characteristics available, is an important measure for the prevention of its increasing abuse worldwide.