bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurements of radon exhalation from a South African gold mine tailings using sealed tube method
Authors: Komati F.S. , Strydom R. , Ntwaeaborwa O.M.
Published: July 2021

To date, approximately 6000 tons of uranium has been disposed of onto tailings dams per year by gold mining activities in South Africa. These uranium bearing tailings dumps contain significant amounts of radium and are therefore possible sources of substantial amounts of radon gas. Due to the large sizes of these dams, measurements of the radon exhalation for the whole dam using established and conventional methods become time consuming and labour intensive. In this study, radon exhalation rates from a gold mine tailings dam around mining area of Odendalsrus were measured using passive “sealed tube” method and CR-39 gas etched track monitors known as Radon Gas Monitors (RGMs). Twenty samples were collected at the depths ranging from 90 cm to 1 m from the tailings for exhalation rate measurements. Radon exhalation rates from these samples were found to vary from 0.0410 ± 0.0042 Bq/m2 · s to 0.440 ± 0.045 Bq/m2 · s with a mean value of 0.102 ± 0.021 Bq/m2 · s and a standard deviation of 0.087 Bq/m2 · s. The results of these measurements show very high radon exhalation rate and radium content from one particular sample which requires further investigations.
Slovak Audit Firms and their Membership in a Network
Authors: Domaracká Denisa , Antalová Renáta
Published: July 2021

Statutory audit in Slovakia is performed by statutory auditors or audit firms. Many of the audit firms are members of the globally operating audit networks. Membership in a network imposes certain rights and duties for audit firms. The existence and operation of the audit networks can be understood as one of the results of globalization that allows an increasing possibility of cooperation at the international level. Our goal is to clarify the state of audit firms operating in the audit networks. To achieve the goal, it was necessary to choose a purposeful work methodology and research methods, based primarily on the analysis of data from the list of the audit firms.
Key factors influencing family businesses: a qualitative study of selected world wineries
Authors: Koráb Vojtěch
Published: July 2021

This research study is based on the elaboration of nineteen case studies of family wineries from all over the world and one case study from the Czech Republic. All family wineries were visited by the author and semi-structured interviews were conducted with selected representatives of family wineries. The aim of the research was to look at the family winery through the lens of two systems: the family system and the business system, in order to find out the involvement of family members in a winery and the most important factors affecting a winery. Websites of family wineries were examined through contextual analysis. Based on the analysis of all case studies, four key groups of family wineries in the world were compiled. The research study identifies key family factors, i.e. familiness and the generation of the family which owns a winery. On the business side, the study identifies two key factors important for the sustainability of a family winery, namely corporate innovation and the degree of internationalization. The results of the analysis of world family wineries were compared with one winery selected from the Czech Republic.
Pachypodostyflavone, a New 3-methoxy Flavone and Other Constituents
with Antifilarial Activities from the Stem Bark of Duguetia
staudtii
Authors: Mbobda Alexis Sylvain Wafo , Ngouonpe Alain Wembe , Happi Gervais Mouthé , Mountessou Bel Youssouf G. , Monya Elvis , Jouda Jean-Bosco , Toussie Billy Tchegnitegni , Lenta Bruno Ndjakou , Sewald Norbert , Kouam Simeon Fogue , Tchouankeu Jean Claude
Published: July 2021

A new flavone derivative named pachypodostyflavone (1), along with 8 known
compounds (2–9) and a mixture of β-sitosterol and
stigmasterol were isolated from the stem bark of Duguetia staudtii
(Annonaceae), based on a bioassay-guided fractionation. Their structures were
determined using high-resolution mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopic data,
as well as by comparison with the literature values of their analogs. Selected
isolated compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antifilaricidal
activities on Onchocerca ochengi microfilariae and adult worms.
Inhibition of motility was evaluated spectroscopically on microfilaria and adult
male worms. Viability was determined on adult female worms by the MTT/
Formazan assay. Auranofin at 10 µM and 2% DMSO were used as
positive and negative controls, respectively. Compounds 1 and 7
showed potent anti-onchocerca activities with 100% activity at 250
µg/mL on both O. ochengi adult male and female worms,
while compound 5 displayed 100% activity at
30 µg/mL.
Screening of 20 Pantanal Wetland Plants for Anti-Candida
Activity using HPLC-DAD-MS/MS and Bioautography to Characterize Active
Compounds
Authors: de Brito Daniela Z. , Cassemiro Nadla S. , de Souza Jeana M. E. , Damasceno-Junior Geraldo A. , Oliveira Rodrigo J. , Carollo Carlos A. , Chang Marilene R.
Published: July 2021

The Pantanal wetland harbors a rich flora with uncharted pharmacological
potential. This study evaluated 20 Brazilian Pantanal plants against Candida
albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei. Fungal
susceptibility was determined by agar diffusion and broth microdilution; active
compounds were identified by bioautography and HPLC-DAD-MS/MS.
Sesbania virgata, Polygala molluginifolia, and Cantinoa mutabilis
extracts and their chloroform and ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fractions exhibited the
best activity against all Candida species tested. The EtOAc fraction of
P. molluginifolia proved to be more efficient in inhibiting C.
parapsilosis and C. krusei growth (Minimum inhibitory
concentration of 125 and 62.5 μg/mL, respectively).
Bioautography of this fraction revealed two active bands, characterized by
HPLC-DAD-MS/MS as a mixture of podophyllotoxin derivatives blumenol,
besides some flavonoids. This work demonstrated antifungal potential of P.
molluginifolia podophyllotoxin derivatives and the versatility of
bioautography with HPLC-DAD-MS/MS to identify the bioactive
compounds.
„Der Weg in den Direktzugang ist unausweichlich“ – Bundestagswahl 2021
Authors: Kühne Roy , Müller Bettina , Klein-Schmeink Maria , Kessler Achim
Published: July 2021

Alle vier Jahre werden wir zur Wahlurne gebeten, um einen neuen Bundestag zu wählen. physiopraxis hat bei vier namhaften Politikerinnen und Politikern nachgefragt, welche Pläne ihre Parteien für die Zukunft der Heilmittelbranche Deutschlands bereithalten.
Kontinuierliche passive Bewegungstherapie (CPM-Therapie) in der orthopädischen Rehabilitation am Schultergelenk – eine Literaturübersicht
Authors: Schulze Christoph , Knaack Franziska , Goosmann Martin , Mittelmeier Wolfram , Bader Rainer
Published: July 2021

Hintergrund Die kontinuierliche passive Bewegung (CPM) der Schulter wird in der orthopädischen Rehabilitation überwiegend bei der postoperativen Mobilisierung des Schultergürtels angewandt. Häufig erfolgt die Anwendung nach Rotatorenmanschettennaht (RM-Naht). Arbeitsunfähigkeit und Therapie von Schultererkrankungen verursachen bedeutende Kosten für das Solidarsystem in Deutschland.

Methode In einer Literaturanalyse wurden daher Studien sowie Übersichtsarbeiten zur CPM in wissenschaftlichen Datenbanken identifiziert und in Bezug auf das funktionelle Outcome insbesondere nach operativen Eingriffen am Schultergelenk analysiert. Die Qualität der Studien wurde mittels Cochrane Collaborationʼs Risk of Bias Tool bewertet.

Ergebnis Nach Rotatorenmanschetten-Naht wurde in klinischen Studien überwiegend eine schnellere Verbesserung des Schmerzniveaus und der Schulter-Beweglichkeit bei Nutzung der CPM-Behandlung gegenüber anderen Behandlungsformen aufgezeigt. Bei Schultersteife konnten nur Arbeiten mit Anwendung der CPM in der konservativen Therapie gefunden werden, wobei ebenfalls über eine Verbesserung des Schmerzniveaus berichtet wurde. Hinsichtlich des Einsatzes bei Schulter-Impingement, Humeruskopffraktur oder nach Implantation einer Schulterendoprothese konnten keine aussagekräftigen Studien gefunden werden. Die gesundheitsökonomischen Effekte des Einsatzes von CPM werden kontrovers diskutiert. In den zur Verfügung stehenden Arbeiten werden Gerät- und Begleitkosten unterschiedlich bewertet.

Schlussfolgerung Die analysierten klinischen Studien zeigten insgesamt positive Effekte bei einer Nutzung der CPM-Therapie, d. h. eine schnellere Verbesserung des Schmerzniveaus und der Schulter-Beweglichkeit, im Rahmen der postoperativen Nachbehandlung des Schultergürtels nach Rotatorenmanschetten-Naht sowie der konservativen Behandlung der Schultersteife. Bei anderen Entitäten sind bislang keine aussagekräftigen Arbeiten in der Literatur verfügbar. Da die gesundheitsökonomischen Effekte des Einsatzes von CPM bislang kontrovers betrachtet werden, sollten mögliche gesundheitsökonomische Vorteile des Einsatzes einer CPM-Behandlung durch nachfolgende Untersuchungen evaluiert werden.
Allicin Reduces 5-fluorouracil-resistance in Gastric Cancer Cells
through Modulating MDR1, DKK1, and WNT5A Expression
Authors: Khakbaz Parya , Panahizadeh Reza , Vatankhah Mohammad Amin , Najafzadeh Nowruz
Published: July 2021

Background & Objective 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is approved for the
treatment of gastric carcinoma (GC), but chemo-resistance limits the application
of it for GC. Thus, the combination of 5-FU with adjuvants such as allicin may
overcome multidrug resistance (MDR).

Methods The anticancer effects of allicin, 5-FU, and allicin/5-FU
on the 5-FU resistant MKN-45 cells were evaluated by MTT assay and DAPi
staining. The expression of the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and CD44 protein were
determined using immunocytochemistry. We also quantified mRNA expression levels
of WNT5A, Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), and MDR1 in the GC cells.

Results Here, we found that the combination of allicin with 5-FU
significantly increased apoptosis compared to 5-FU alone
(P<0.05). We showed that WNT5A, MDR1, and
DKK1 mRNA expression levels were down-regulated in the allicin- and
allicin/5-FU-treated cells. Indeed, the combination of allicin and 5-FU
significantly decreased the expression of the P-gp and CD44 proteins
(P<0.05).

Conclusion Our findings indicate that the combination of allicin with 5-FU
could reverse multidrug resistance in the GC cells by reducing the expression of
WNT5A, DKK1, MDR1, P-gp, and CD44 levels.
Prevention of COVID-19 in Thoracic Surgery Patients: Lessons Learned during the First Pandemic Wave
Authors: Stoleriu Mircea Gabriel , Gerckens Michael , Ströh Katja , Kovács Julia , Samm Nicole , Obereisenbuchner Florian , Hetrodt Justin , Schmidt Felicitas Maria , Reinmuth Niels , Heiß-Neumann Marion , Stacher-Priehse Elvira , Koch Ina , Behr Jürgen , Ketscher Christian , Grützner Uwe , Hatz Rudolf
Published: July 2021

Background The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the implementation of measures to prevent perioperative COVID-19 in thoracic surgery during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic 2020 allowing a continued surgical treatment of patients.

Methods The implemented preventive measures in patient management of the thoracic surgery department of the Asklepios Lung Clinic Munich-Gauting, Germany were retrospectively analyzed. Postoperative COVID-19 incidence before and after implementation of preventive measures was investigated. Patients admitted for thoracic surgical procedures between March and May 2020 were included in the study. Patient characteristics were analyzed. For the early detection of putative postoperative COVID-19 symptoms, typical post-discharge symptomatology of thoracic surgery patients was compared to non-surgical patients hospitalized for COVID-19.

Results Thirty-five surgical procedures and fifty-seven surgical procedures were performed before and after implementation of the preventive measures, respectively. Three patients undergoing thoracic surgery before implementation of preventive measures developed a COVID-19 pneumonia post-discharge. After implementation of preventive measures, no postoperative COVID-19 cases were identified. Fever, dyspnea, dry cough and diarrhea were significantly more prevalent in COVID-19 patients compared to normally recovering thoracic surgery patients, while anosmia, phlegm, low energy levels, body ache and nausea were similarly frequent in both groups.

Conclusions Based on the lessons learned during the first pandemic wave, we here provide a blueprint for successful easily implementable preventive measures minimizing SARS-CoV-2 transmission to thoracic surgery patients perioperatively. While symptoms of COVID-19 and the normal postoperative course of thoracic surgery patients substantially overlap, we found dyspnea, fever, cough, and diarrhea significantly more prevalent in COVID-19 patients than in normally recovering thoracic surgery patients. These symptoms should trigger further diagnostic testing for postoperative COVID-19 in thoracic surgery patients.
Similar Time Near VO2max Regardless of Work Rate Manipulation in
Cycling Interval Training
Authors: Wommer Daiane , Turnes Tiago , Souza KristopherMendes , Guglielmo Luiz Guilherme Antonacci
Published: July 2021

The current study aimed to compare time spent above 90% V̇O2max
(tV̇O2max) during 3 work-matched interval training protocols comprising
8×60-second exercise efforts with decreasing, increasing, or constant
work rate distribution within each exercise interval. Ten healthy male subjects
(age: 27.6±5.0 years; V̇O2max:
3.82±0.52 L•min–1) performed an incremental test
to determine V̇O2max and peak power output (P max). During
visits 2, 3, and 4, three work-matched interval training sessions comprising
8×60 s efforts: 60 s active recovery with the power
output held constant (100%Pmax; ITCON), decreasing (from 110 to
90%Pmax; ITDEC), or increasing (from 90 to 110%Pmax; ITINC)
linearly throughout each work interval. Time sustained above 90% of
V̇O2max (tV̇O2max) or HRmax (tHRmax), blood lactate
concentrations (BLC) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured. The
tV̇O2max (ITCON: 274±132; ITDEC: 313±102; ITINC:
310±113 s, P=0.37), tHRmax (ITCON: 396±180;
ITDEC: 441±207; ITINC: 390±212 s, P=0.47), BLC
(P=0.73), and final RPE (P=0.75) were similar among protocols.
In conclusion, work-matched interval training induced similar time near
V̇O2max and associated physiological responses regardless of work rate
manipulation.
Melding of Experiment and Theory Illuminates Mechanisms of Metal-Catalyzed Rearrangements: Computational Approaches and Caveats
Authors: Tantillo Dean J. , Laconsay Croix J.
Published: July 2021

This review summarizes approaches and caveats in computational modeling of transition-metal-catalyzed sigmatropic rearrangements involving carbene transfer. We highlight contemporary examples of combined synthetic and theoretical investigations that showcase the synergy achievable by integrating experiment and theory.

1 Introduction

2 Mechanistic Models

3 Theoretical Approaches and Caveats

3.1 Recommended Computational Tools

3.2 Choice of Functional and Basis Set

3.3 Conformations and Ligand-Binding Modes

3.4 Solvation

4 Synergy of Experiment and Theory – Case Studies

4.1 Metal-Bound or Free Ylides?

4.2 Conformations and Ligand-Binding Modes of Paddlewheel Complexes

4.3 No Metal, Just Light

4.4 How To ‘Cope’ with Nonstatistical Dynamic Effects

5 Outlook
Diagnosis and Initial Investigation of Bronchiectasis
Authors: Amati Francesco , Simonetta Edoardo , Pilocane Tommaso , Gramegna Andrea , Goeminne Pieter , Oriano Martina , Pascual-Guardia Sergi , Mantero Marco , Voza Antonio , Santambrogio Martina , Blasi Francesco , Aliberti Stefano
Published: July 2021

Bronchiectasis refers to both the name of a disease and a single radiological appearance that may, or may not, be associated with disease. As chronic respiratory disease, bronchiectasis is characterized by a variable range of signs and symptoms that may overlap with other chronic respiratory conditions. The proper identification of bronchiectasis as a disease in both primary and secondary care is of paramount importance. However, a standardized definition of radiologically and clinically significant bronchiectasis is still missing. Disease heterogeneity is a hallmark of bronchiectasis and applies not only to radiological features and clinical manifestations but also to other aspects of the disease, including the etiological and microbiological diagnosis as well as the evaluation of pulmonary function. Although the guidelines suggest a “minimum bundle” of tests, the diagnostic approach to bronchiectasis is challenging and may be driven by the “treatable traits” approach based on endotypes and biological characteristics. A broad spectrum of diagnostic tests could be used to investigate the etiology of bronchiectasis as well as other pulmonary, extrapulmonary, and environmental traits. Individualizing bronchiectasis workup according to the site of care (e.g., primary, secondary, and tertiary care) could help optimize patients' management and reduce healthcare costs.
Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia
Authors: Shoemark Amelia , Harman Katharine
Published: July 2021

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is an inherited cause of bronchiectasis. The estimated PCD prevalence in children with bronchiectasis is up to 26% and in adults with bronchiectasis is 1 to 13%. Due to dysfunction of the multiple motile cilia of the respiratory tract patients suffer from poor mucociliary clearance. Clinical manifestations are heterogeneous; however, a typical patient presents with chronic productive cough and rhinosinusitis from early life. Other symptoms reflect the multiple roles of motile cilia in other organs and can include otitis media and hearing loss, infertility, situs inversus, complex congenital heart disease, and more rarely other syndromic features such as hydrocephalus and retinitis pigmentosa. Awareness, identification, and diagnosis of a patient with PCD are important for multidisciplinary care and genetic counseling. Diagnosis can be pursued through a multitest pathway which includes the measurement of nasal nitric oxide, sampling the nasal epithelium to assess ciliary function and structure, and genotyping. Diagnosis is confirmed by the identification of a hallmark ultrastructural defect or pathogenic mutations in one of > 45 PCD causing genes. When a diagnosis is established management is centered around improving mucociliary clearance through physiotherapy and treatment of infection with antibiotics. The first international randomized controlled trial in PCD has recently been conducted showing azithromycin is effective in reducing exacerbations. It is likely that evidence-based PCD-specific management guidelines and therapies will be developed in the near future. This article examines prevalence, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of PCD highlighting recent advances in basic science and clinical care.
Fatal Acute Pneumocephalus after Bilateral Drainage for Chronic Subdural Hematomas: Case Report
Authors: Lepić Milan , Mandić-Rajčević Stefan , Pavlićević Goran , Benović Radomir , Novaković Nenad , Rasulić Lukas
Published: July 2021

Background Pneumocephalus is a well-known complication in the surgical treatment of chronic subdural hematomas; however, its influence remains controversial. The amount of subdural air may vary, and it may cause worsening of symptoms, increase reoccurrence rates, and worsen the outcomes. Lethal outcome following acute onset of massive pneumocephalus was not previously reported.

Case Report An 81-year-old man with bilateral hematomas underwent surgery under local anesthesia. Both hematomas were approached in the same surgery, and the drains were placed subdurally. After initial improvement, severe hypertension developed, followed by vital function and neurologic deterioration. Massive pneumocephalus with subarachnoid and contralateral intracerebral hemorrhage was revealed, causing a severe midsagittal shift. Emergency irrigation to evacuate subdural air was performed. However, there was no improvement. Further computed tomography confirmed subdural air collection, but it also revealed hemorrhage progression and intraventricular propagation. No further surgery was indicated.

Conclusion Pneumocephalus is an underestimated but potentially devastating complication. Both intraoperative avoidance and postoperative prevention should be utilized to avoid subdural air ingress, and thus evade potentially fatal complications.
Nontuberculous Mycobacteria
Authors: Tan Shera , Kasperbauer Shannon
Published: July 2021

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous in the environment and 193 species of NTM have been discovered thus far. NTM species vary in virulence from benign environmental organisms to difficult-to-treat human pathogens. Pulmonary infections remain the most common manifestation of NTM disease in humans and bronchiectasis continues to be a major risk factor for NTM pulmonary disease (NTM PD). This article will provide a useful introduction and framework for clinicians involved in the management of bronchiectasis and NTM. It includes an overview of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of NTM PD. We will address the challenges faced in the diagnosis of NTM PD and the importance of subspeciation in guiding treatment and follow-up, especially in Mycobacterium abscessus infections. The treatment of both Mycobacterium avium complex and M. abscessus, the two most common NTM species known to cause disease, will be discussed in detail. Elements of the recent ATS/ERS/ESCMID/IDSA NTM guidelines published in 2020 will also be reviewed.
Clinical Use of PROMIS, Neuro-QoL, TBI-QoL, and Other Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Individual Adult Clients with Cognitive and Language Disorders
Authors: Cohen Matthew L. , Lanzi Alyssa M. , Boulton Aaron J.
Published: July 2021

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) assess health outcomes from the patient's perspective. The National Institutes of Health has invested in the creation of numerous PROMs that comprise the PROMIS, Neuro-QoL, and TBI-QoL measurement systems. Some of these PROMs are potentially useful as primary or secondary outcome measures, or as contextual variables for the treatment of adults with cognitive/language disorders. These PROMs were primarily created for clinical research and interpretation of group means. They also have potential for use with individual clients; however, at present there is only sparse evidence and direction for this application of PROMs. Previous research by Cohen and Hula (2020) described how PROMs could support evidence-based practices in speech-language pathology. This companion article extends upon that work to present clinicians with implementation information about obtaining, administering, scoring, and interpreting PROMs for individual clients with cognitive/language disorders. This includes considerations of the type and extent of communication support that is appropriate, implications of the relatively large measurement error that accompanies individual scores and pairs of scores, and recommendations for applying minimal detectable change values depending on the clinician's desired level of measurement precision. However, more research is needed to guide the interpretation of PROM scores for an individual client.
Effects of the Use of Tourniquet in Total Knee Arthroplasty on the Clinical and Functional Outcomes with 5 Years of Follow-up: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hamawandi Sherwan A. , Amin Hazhar I. , Al-Humairi Ameer K.
Published: July 2021

The use of tourniquet in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) had a lot of controversies with no clear agreement about the advantages and disadvantages of tourniquet. This study aims to show the effects of tourniquet use in TKA on the functional and clinical outcomes with follow-up of 5 years. This is a randomized, double-blind, and single-center study of 101 patients who were treated by TKA and divided randomly into two groups. Tourniquet was used in group A and was not used in group B. Both groups were assessed by Knee Society score (KSS), knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS), visual analogue scale (VAS) score for thigh pain, and postoperative complications. Both groups were followed up for 5 years. The group of no tourniquet showed significant better functional outcomes measured by KSS at postoperative periods of 2 weeks (p = 0.001), 6 weeks (p = 0.006), and 3 months (p = 0.034), and KOOS at postoperative periods of 2 weeks (p = 0.001), 6 weeks (p =0.001), and 3 months (p = 0.016). However, there was no significant difference in long-term follow-up of 5 years. There were significantly better results with use of tourniquet regarding surgeon's visualization during surgery, less operative time, and less calculated blood loss, while significantly better results with no use of tourniquet were reported regarding less hospital stay, less postoperative analgesic consumption, and less postoperative thigh pain measured by VAS score at postoperative periods of day 1 (p = 0.001), day 5 (p = 0.001), 2 weeks (p = 0.001), and 6 weeks (p = 0.001). Regarding postoperative blood transfusion and clinical deep venous thrombosis, there was no significant difference between use of tourniquet or not. The evidence presented in this level-1 randomized controlled trial suggests that no use of tourniquet in TKA can improve functional outcomes in early postoperative period with no significant difference on functional outcome at 5 years of follow-up.
Early Infection Trends for Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A 5-Year Review
Authors: Sodhi Nipun , Anis Hiba K. , Acuña Alexander J. , Gold Peter , Garbarino Luke , Higuera Carlos A. , Mont Michael A.
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to track the annual rates and trends of overall, deep, and superficial surgical site infections (SSIs) following total knee arthroplasty using the most recent results from a large and nationwide database. A total of 197,192 cases were performed between 2012 and 2016 from a nationwide database stratified into years and based on superficial and/or deep SSIs. Cohorts were analyzed individually and then combined to evaluate overall SSI rates. The infection incidence for each year was calculated. After a 6-year correlation and trends analysis, univariate analyses were performed to compare the most recent year, 2016, with each of the preceding 4 years. Overall, there was a downward trend in overall SSI rates over the study period (2012–2016, with the lowest rate occurring in the most recent year, 2016 [0.11%]). Additionally, there was a decreasing trend for superficial SSI, with the lowest superficial SSI incidence occurring in 2016 (0.47%) and the greatest incidence occurring in 2012 (0.53%). An overall trend of decreasing SSI rates was observed nationwide over the 5-year period evaluated. A similar decreasing trend was also noted specifically for deep SSI rates, which can be potentially more complicated to manage, and result in decreased implant survivorship. The down trending SSI rates observed give potential credence to the value for newer and developing SSI preventative therapies as well as improved medical and surgical patient management. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement, and continued efforts are needed to further lower SSIs after total knee arthroplasty.
Polymorphism in Apolipoprotein C3 (APOC3) and Fatty Acid-Binding Proteins (FABP2) Genes in Nondiabetic Dyslipidemic Patients: A Tertiary Care Hospital-Based Pilot Study
Authors: Chowdhary Rashmi , Masarkar Neha , Khadanga Sagar
Published: July 2021

Context Dyslipidemia is a multifactorial disease in which lipoproteins play an important role as one of the early markers for coronary heart disease (CHD). Mixed dyslipidemia is common in people with diabetes mellitus, but nondiabetic dyslipidemics (NDD) remain unidentified for the risk of developing dyslipidemia and eventually CHD.

Objectives This pilot study attempts to analyze the genetic basis of lipid metabolism alterations, emphasizing the association between fatty acid-binding protein-2 (FABP2-Ala54Thr) and apolipoprotein-C3 (APOC3-rs5128) genetic polymorphism, as a risk for developing dyslipidemia and CHD in NDD.

Methods and Design Total 90 subjects—30 DD, 30 NDD, and 30 apparently healthy subjects representing Central India—were included. Biochemical analysis and DNA genotyping were done by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Statistical Analysis The biochemical parameters were reported as means ± standard deviation. One-way analysis of variance test was used to compare biochemical parameters of three groups. Chi-squared test was done to compare genotype distributions. The strength of association was assessed by odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). All statistical analysis was done using SPSS-PC software and Graph Pad.

Results In NDD, maximum polymorphism was observed followed by DD and least polymorphism was observed in controls. There was a significant association of APOC3 G allele with occurrence of hypertriglyceridemia (p < 0.05); however, no such association was found for FABP2 A allele (p > 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed APOC3 polymorphism to be significantly associated with dyslipidemia (OR = 2.6667, 95% CI = 1.0510–6.7663, p = 0.0341); no such association was found for FABP2 polymorphism (OR = 0.4643, 95% CI = 0.1641–1.3136, p = 0.1347). The triglyceride and cholesterol values in individuals with homozygous genotype indicate that genetic study is comparable to the biochemical findings in carriers of polymorphic allele than noncarriers, especially in NDD patients.

Conclusions Pilot study indicates that the presence of APOC3 gene polymorphism is associated with pro-atherogenic dyslipidemia in nondiabetic patients and may raise risk of CHD. This information could be used for preventive strategies in NDD group that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Giant Ovarian Serous Cystadenoma in an Infant: Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Vimal Medhavi , Chatterjee Priti , Nangia Anita , Choudhury S. R.
Published: July 2021

The incidence of abdominal cysts in infants is 1 in 500 to 1 in 1,000 live births. Among the ovarian cysts in infants, serous cystadenoma is extremely rare with only few reported cases in the literature. Here, we report a case of a giant neonatal ovarian serous cystadenoma treated with laparoscopic cystectomy and confirmed by histopathological examination.

A 27-year-old delivered a female baby with uneventful caesarean section at full term. The antenatal ultrasonography (USG) in third trimester had showed an abdominal cyst in the left side of the abdomen. Postnatal USG was suggestive of omental cyst. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan of the neonate showed a large cyst occupying the entire abdomen. On laparoscopic evaluation, a cystic mass filled with 500 mL of clear yellow fluid was seen in the left pelvic fossa. Left ovary could not be visualized separately. The right ovary, fallopian tubes, and uterus were normal. The entire cyst was removed and sent for histopathological examination. On gross examination, a unilocular cyst measuring 10×8×6.5 cm with a wall thickness of 0.2 cm was noted. On microscopic examination, the histomorphological features were consistent with serous cystadenoma of the ovary. There is a paucity of literature regarding pathological diagnosis of such cases and hence we report one such case.
Liver–Heart on chip models for drug safety
Authors: Ferrari Erika , Rasponi Marco
Published: July 2021

Current pre-clinical models to evaluate drug safety during the drug development process (DDP) mainly rely on traditional two-dimensional cell cultures, considered too simplistic and often ineffective, or animal experimentations, which are costly, time-consuming, and not truly representative of human responses. Their clinical translation thus remains limited, eventually causing attrition and leading to high rates of failure during clinical trials. These drawbacks can be overcome by the recently developed Organs-on-Chip (OoC) technology. OoC are sophisticated in vitro systems capable of recapitulating pivotal architecture and functionalities of human organs. OoC are receiving increasing attention from the stakeholders of the DDP, particularly concerning drug screening and safety applications. When a drug is administered in the human body, it is metabolized by the liver and the resulting compound may cause unpredicted toxicity on off-target organs such as the heart. In this sense, several liver and heart models have been widely adopted to assess the toxicity of new or recalled drugs. Recent advances in OoC technology are making available platforms encompassing multiple organs fluidically connected to efficiently assess and predict the systemic effects of compounds. Such Multi-Organs-on-Chip (MOoC) platforms represent a disruptive solution to study drug-related effects, which results particularly useful to predict liver metabolism on off-target organs to ultimately improve drug safety testing in the pre-clinical phases of the DDP. In this review, we focus on recently developed liver and heart on chip systems for drug toxicity testing. In addition, MOoC platforms encompassing connected liver and heart tissues have been further reviewed and discussed.
A broadband circularly polarized magneto-electric dipole array antenna for 5G millimeter-wave applications
Authors: Trinh-Van Son , Van Trinh Thai , Yang Youngoo , Lee Kang-Yoon , Hwang Keum Cheol
Published: July 2021

A millimeter-wave (mm-wave) broadband circularly polarized (CP) magneto-electric (ME) dipole array antenna is proposed. The antenna element consists of a ME dipole, a direct T-shaped probe, and a pair of shorted parasitic elements. The shorted parasitic elements are employed to ensure a considerable expansion of the 3 dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidth to lower frequencies. As a result, the ME dipole antenna element achieves a wide overlapped AR/impedance bandwidth of 56.89% (22.45–40.3 GHz). Based on the proposed CP antenna element, a 2 × 2 CP array antenna that incorporates an improved X-shaped power divider network is developed. A prototype of the 2 × 2 CP array antenna is fabricated and experimentally verified. The measured results indicate that a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 50.39% (23.9–40 GHz) and a 3 dB AR bandwidth of 50% (24–40 GHz) are achieved, forming a broad overlapped AR/impedance bandwidth of 24–40 GHz, which covers most of the current mm-wave 5G bands. Moreover, a peak gain of 14.88 dBic is also observed. Thus, the demonstrated antenna with broadband CP operation and good radiation performance can be an excellent candidate for 5G mm-wave applications.
Direct numerical simulation of forced turbulent round jet: Effect of flow confinement and varicose excitation
Authors: Dave Sagar , Anghan Chetankumar , Saincher Shaswat , Banerjee Jyotirmay
Published: July 2021

Direct numerical simulation of a turbulent round jet subjected to varicose excitation has been carried out. The effect of domain size and waveform used for providing varicose excitation have been studied with the help of time-averaged mean, fluctuating quantities, and instantaneous isosurfaces of the Q-criterion. Initial evolution of the jet suggests that the secondary instability is delayed in time with an increase in the domain size irrespective of the waveform. It has also been observed that the secondary instability manifests stronger for the square wave based excitation as compared to sinusoidal excitation for the smaller and medium domains. In addition, simulations demonstrate that the aforementioned secondary instability is sustained in the long term for small and medium domains. In the case of a confined domain, simulations indicate that square wave based excitation leads to greater enhancement in mixing and entrainment characteristics of the jet when compared to sinusoidal excitation. We demonstrate that sine pulsing at the inlet excites energy up to the second harmonic of the preferred mode while square pulsing excites energy (at least) up to the fifth harmonic which results in more energetic small-scales structures in the far field which in turn augment the mixing characteristics of jet. Qualitative assessment of vortical structures indicates that differently excited jets gradually become similar in the far field of large domains owing to the availability of sufficient amounts of fluid for entrainment. This behavior has also been quantitatively established by means of axial and lateral profiles of both time-averaged as well as fluctuating quantities characterizing the pulsed jet.
Electrical characterization of AlGaN/GaN heterostructures under Ohmic metals by using multi-probe Hall devices
Authors: Uryu Kazuya , Kiuchi Shota , Suzuki Toshi-kazu
Published: July 2021

By using multi-probe Hall devices, we characterized electrical properties of AlGaN/GaN heterostructures under Ohmic metals. The characterization makes it possible to evaluate the sheet resistance, the sheet electron concentration, and the electron mobility of AlGaN/GaN heterostructures after Ohmic contact formation, by analyzing the voltage and current distribution based on a transmission line model. As a result, we find a decrease in the sheet resistance under an Ohmic metal with a decrease in the specific Ohmic contact resistivity, attributed to significant increase in the sheet electron concentration. The high sheet electron concentration indicates a parallel conduction in the AlGaN and GaN layers, caused by a high doping concentration of the near-surface AlGaN ≳2×1019 cm−3, which leads to an Ohmic contact dominated by field-emission. Moreover, it is suggested that polarization doping induced by a strain in the AlGaN layer has a contribution to the high doping concentration. Multi-probe Hall devices provide a useful method to characterize electrical properties of semiconductors under Ohmic metals.
Three-dimensional single framework multicomponent lattice Boltzmann equation method for vesicle hydrodynamics
Authors: Spendlove J. , Xu X. , Schenkel T. , Seaton M. A. , Halliday I. , Gunn J. P.
Published: July 2021

We develop a three-dimensional immersed boundary chromodynamic multicomponent lattice Boltzmann method capable of simulating vesicles, such as erythrocytes. The presented method is encapsulated in a single framework, where the application of the immersed boundary force in the automatically adaptive interfacial region results in correct vesicle behavior. We also set down a methodology for computing the principal curvatures of a surface in a three-dimensional, physical space which is defined solely in terms of its surface normal vectors. The benefits of such a model are its transparent methodology, stability at high levels of deformation, automatic-adaptive interface, and potential for the simulation of many erythrocytes. We demonstrate the utility of the model by examining the steady-state properties, as well as dynamical behavior within shear flow. The stability of the method is highlighted through its handling of high deformations, as well as interaction with another vesicle.
Neuronal synchronization in long-range time-varying networks
Authors: Rakshit Sarbendu , Majhi Soumen , Kurths Jürgen , Ghosh Dibakar
Published: July 2021

We study synchronization in neuronal ensembles subject to long-range electrical gap junctions which are time-varying. As a representative example, we consider Hindmarsh–Rose neurons interacting based upon temporal long-range connections through electrical couplings. In particular, we adopt the connections associated with the direct 1-path network to form a small-world network and follow-up with the corresponding long-range network. Further, the underlying direct small-world network is allowed to temporally change; hence, all long-range connections are also temporal, which makes the model much more realistic from the neurological perspective. This time-varying long-range network is formed by rewiring each link of the underlying 1-path network stochastically with a characteristic rewiring probability pr, and accordingly all indirect k(>1)-path networks become temporal. The critical interaction strength to reach complete neuronal synchrony is much lower when we take up rapidly switching long-range interactions. We employ the master stability function formalism in order to characterize the local stability of the state of synchronization. The analytically derived stability condition for the complete synchrony state agrees well with the numerical results. Our work strengthens the understanding of time-varying long-range interactions in neuronal ensembles.
Initial pressure of the shock front launched by a streamer discharge in water
Authors: Xue Xiaodong , Wen Xiaoqiong , Yang Yuantian , Wang Liru , Wang Xue
Published: July 2021

A streamer discharge in water launches a chain of isolated shock fronts as the streamer filament propagates through the water. The initial pressure of the shock front is a good estimation of the initial pressure of the streamer filament. We observed the temporal evolution of the shock front launched by a microsecond pulsed positive streamer discharge in water and investigated the initial pressure of the shock front. We discovered a method for determining the radius of the shock front measured from different discharge pulses in an accurate time sequence and obtained the temporal evolution of the shock front radius. Based on the measured temporal evolution of the shock front radius, we obtained that the initial pressure of the shock front is ∼0.6 GPa. We found that applied voltage and water conductivity do not affect the initial pressure of the shock front within the range studied.
A coupled lattice Boltzmann and Cosserat rod model method for three-dimensional two-way fluid–structure interactions
Authors: Ando Suguru , Nishikawa Mitsuru , Kaneda Masayuki , Suga Kazuhiko
Published: July 2021

A numerical scheme to simulate three-dimensional two-way fluid–structure interaction (twFSI) problems of flows around a flexible fine structure is developed in this study. The partitioned approach is employed to separately calculate fluid flows and structure motions by the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) and the geometrically exact Cosserat rod model (CRM), respectively. The fluid–structure interactions are calculated by the simple explicit coupling scheme combined with the contact detection algorithm and the fluid–structure interface reconstruction scheme. The contact detection algorithm utilizing the bounding volume hierarchy is adopted to reduce the computing time of data communication between the fluid and the structure solvers, while the fluid–structure interface reconstruction scheme utilizes the level set method to represent the moving fluid–structure interfaces. The proposed LBM–CRM–twFSI scheme is successfully validated in two experimental benchmarks of a single flexible structure deformation in a wind tunnel. The results confirm that the present scheme accurately calculates the equilibrium state and the time-dependent oscillatory motions of the structures exposed to airflows. The errors of the representative rod position between the experimental and numerical results for both benchmarks are within 5%. These validations confirm the practicability of the presently developed LBM–CRM–twFSI scheme for motions of flexible fine structures in fluid flows.
The regularized asymptotics of a solution of the Cauchy problem in the presence of a weak turning point of the limit operator
Authors: Eliseev A. G.
Published: July 2021

An asymptotic solution of the linear Cauchy problem in the presence of a ‘weak’ turning point of the limit operator is built using Lomov’s regularization method. The major singularities of the problem are written out in an explicit form. Estimates are given with respect to

, which characterise the behaviour of the singularities as

. The asymptotic convergence of the regularized series is proved. The results of the work are illustrated by an example.

Bibliography: 8 titles.
Slide polynomials and subword complexes
Authors: Smirnov E. Yu. , Tutubalina A. A.
Published: July 2021

Subword complexes were defined by Knutson and Miller in 2004 to describe Gröbner degenerations of matrix Schubert varieties. Subword complexes of a certain type are called pipe dream complexes. The facets of such a complex are indexed by pipe dreams, or, equivalently, by monomials in the corresponding Schubert polynomial. In 2017 Assaf and Searles defined a basis of slide polynomials, generalizing Stanley symmetric functions, and described a combinatorial rule for expanding Schubert polynomials in this basis. We describe a decomposition of subword complexes into strata called slide complexes. The slide complexes appearing in such a way are shown to be homeomorphic to balls or spheres. For pipe dream complexes, such strata correspond to slide polynomials.

Bibliography: 14 titles.
An unrecognized inertial force induced by flow curvature in microfluidics
Authors: Agarwal Siddhansh , Chan Fan Kiat , Rallabandi Bhargav , Gazzola Mattia , Hilgenfeldt Sascha
Published: July 2021

Significance

Through a combination of theory and high-resolution simulations, we derive, isolate, and understand a previously unrecognized, strong force acting on particles in inertial microfluidic settings. The analysis applies especially to particle manipulation in fast oscillatory flows, a major tool in lab-on-a-chip processing as well as in diagnostic and biomanufacturing applications. Our approach systematically extends the Maxey–Riley equation, the main theoretical foundation for quantifying fluid forces on particles, to account for unexplained observations related to localized flow curvature and irreversible motion at low Reynolds number.
Behaviour of salivary testosterone and cortisol in men during an Ironman Triathlon
Authors: Vaamonde Diana , García‐Manso Juan Manuel , Algar‐Santacruz Carolina , Abbasi Asghar , Sarmiento Samuel , Valverde‐Esteve Teresa
Published: July 2021

Endurance exercise induces notable acute hormonal responses on the gonadal and adrenal hormones. The purpose of this study was to assess the changes in salivary testosterone (Ts), salivary cortisol (Cs) and T/C ratio during long‐distance triathlon. Ten well‐trained male triathletes participated in the study and were assessed for hormonal changes at four time‐points (pre‐competition, post‐swimming, post‐cycling, and post‐running phases). Ts decreased from pre‐competition to post‐swimming (from 93.37 pg/mL to 57.63 pg/mL; p < .01) and increased during two other parts of the competition to almost pre‐competition values (cycling: 79.20 pg/mL, p = .02; running: 89,66 pg/mL, p = .04, respectively). Cs showed a similar behaviour; decreasing in the post‐swimming phase (1.74 pg/mL) and increasing in the other transitions (post‐cycling: 7.30 pg/mL; post‐running: 13.31 pg/mL), with significant differences between pre‐competition and post‐ competition values (p = .01). Conversely, T/C increased significantly from pre‐competition to post‐swimming phase (p = .04) to later decrease until the end of the competition. Overall, T/C significantly decreased (p < .05). In conclusion, during an Ironman triathlon, hormone values fluctuate in response to the demands of the competition. Ts and Cs decrease after‐swimming, increase after‐cycling and reach the maximum values after‐running. T/C reflects overall catabolic status.