bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter-relationships between percentage body fat, relative subischial leg length and body mass index among adolescents and adults from the Limbu community of Darjeeling, West Bengal
Authors: Datta Banik Sudip
Published: December 2020

Leg length in humans is considered to be an indicator of the long-term impact of quality of childhood living conditions and nutritional status. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the magnitude of association of percentage body fat (PBF) with relative subischial leg length (RSLL), adjusting for age, sex and body mass index (BMI), among adolescents and adults in a population of poor socioeconomic background in India. Data were taken from a cross-sectional study conducted in 2010–2014 among the Limbu community of Darjeeling, West Bengal – an indigenous community with poor socioeconomic background, low literacy rate, low income and inadequate living conditions. The study villages were located in the Himalayan and sub-Himalayan regions of Darjeeling. The present study sample comprised 97 adolescents aged 16–19 years (47 boys, 50 girls) and 260 adults aged 20–39 years (135 men, 125 women). Anthropometric measurements of stature/height (cm), weight (kg), sitting height (cm) and skinfold thicknesses (biceps, triceps, subscapular, suprailiac) (mm) were recorded. Derived variables were BMI (kg/m2), subischial leg length (SLL) (cm), RSLL (%), sum of four skinfolds (mm) and PBF (%). Significant sex differences at p<0.05 were observed for all anthropometric characteristics, except for body weight among adolescents and RSLL, subscapular and sum of four skinfolds in adults. The linear regression models adjusting for age and sex showed that RSLL had a negative relationship with PBF (p<0.05) among adolescents and adults. Higher body fat, independent of BMI, was correlated with lower RSLL among both adolescents and adults from the Limbu community, indicating a possible association with poor quality living conditions in childhood. However, this may also have been due to the allometry of total body fat with body proportions – a relatively larger trunk results in more body fat.
Eine «simple» Angina mit lebensbedrohlichen Folgen
Authors: Gerber Ursina , Wäckerlin Adrian , Flury Gian
Published: December 2020

Zusammenfassung. Ein 21-jähriger Patient stellte sich im septischen Schock mit Multiorganversagen zwei Wochen nach einer Pharyngitis vor. Eine Thrombose der Vena jugularis interna, der Verdacht auf septische Embolien der Lunge und die positiven Blutkulturen bestätigten ein Lemierre-Syndrom – eine seltene Komplikation einer durch Fusobacterium necrophorum verursachten Pharyngitis mit hoher Morbidität und Mortalität, die sich als septische Thrombophlebitis der Vena jugularis interna mit hohem Embolierisiko präsentiert. Bei einer «Streptokokken-negativen» Tonsillitis mit Red Flags ist daher ebenfalls eine antibiotische Therapie indiziert.
Organspende aus Sicht der diplomierten Anästhesiepflege
Authors: Scherz Mathias
Published: December 2020

Zusammenfassung. Zusammenfassung: Die diplomierten Experten und Expertinnen in der Anästhesiepflege sind verantwortlich für einen ganzheitlichen Anästhesiepflegeprozess. Dieser beinhaltet eine anspruchsvolle, qualitativ hochstehende und sicherheitsorien­tierte Dienstleistung im Rahmen der Anästhesie und der Schmerzmedizin für Patientinnen und Patienten aller Altersklassen und Gesundheitszustände. Je nach Institution und Arbeitsumfeld wird dies auch die Betreuung bei Organspenden und/oder Transplantationen einschliessen. Speziell in diesem hochspezialisierten Bereich nehmen diplomierte Anästhesiepflegende über die unmittelbare Patientinnen- und Patientenbetreuung hinaus auch viele koordinative, planerische, vorbereitende und technische Aufgaben wahr. Zu einer langfristig erfolgreichen Organspende und -Transplantation ist eine ausserordentlich enge und sorgfältige Zusammenarbeit vieler verschiedener Disziplinen und Professionen nötig. Nur so kann die Patientin/der Patient am Schluss von einem optimalen Ergebnis profitieren, d.h. viele zusätzliche Lebensjahre in hoher Qualität gewinnen.
CME-Sonografie 95/Antworten: Sonografische Differenzialdiagnose anteriorer Schulterschmerzen
Authors: Tamborrini Giorgio , Bianchi Stefano , Müller Andreas Marc
Published: December 2020

Zusammenfassung. Anteriore Schulterschmerzen sind häufig, und die klinische Untersuchung ist im Vergleich zur hochauflösenden dynamischen Sonografie in der Regel zur exakten Einordnung der Ursache der Schmerzen zu wenig präzise. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit diskutieren wir mögliche Ursachen von anterioren Schulterschmerzen mit besonderem Augenmerk auf die Ultraschalldiagnostik von Ursachen eines subcoracoidalen Impingements und von einem anterioren «Snapping Syndrome». Wir illustrieren mit hochauflösenden Ultraschallbildern diverse mögliche zugrundeliegende Pathologien bei anterioren Schulterschmerzen.
CME: Obstructive Sleep Apnea: How to Deal with Night-To-Night Variability of Respiratory Events?
Authors: Roeder Maurice , Schwarz Esther I. , Gaisl Thomas , Kohler Malcolm
Published: December 2020

Abstract. Die aktuellen Leitlinien empfehlen, unkomplizierte Patientinnen und Patienten mit Verdacht auf obstruktive Schlafapnoe (OSA) mittels einer einzigen Schlafuntersuchung zu diagnostizieren. Eine kürzlich veröffentlichte Meta-Analyse konnte hingegen eine ausgeprägte intra-individuelle Variabilität respiratorischer Parameter von Nacht zu Nacht zeigen. Wir präsentieren den Fall eines 76-jährigen Patienten mit Verdacht auf OSA, der innerhalb von 13 Wochen sechs Schlafuntersuchungen unterzogen wurde. Hierbei präsentierte sich eine relevante Variabilität des AHI zwischen 1,1 und 43,1/h. Es konnten keine relevanten Unterschiede betreffend Gewicht, Alkoholkonsum, Medikation und Begleiterkrankungen zwischen den Schlafuntersuchungen festgestellt werden. Aufgrund fehlender subjektiver Wirksamkeit wurde die CPAP-Therapie nach einem Jahr gestoppt. Die ausgeprägte Nacht-zu-Nacht-Variabilität respiratorischer Parameter stellt eine akkurate OSA-Diagnostik mittels einer einzelnen Schlafuntersuchung in Frage.
CME/Antworten: Seltene Klinik bei bakterieller Meningitis
Authors: Halip Georgiana , Martakis Solon , Portocarerro Bettina , Haller Alois
Published: December 2020

Zusammenfassung. Wir berichten über die Diagnose und den klinischen Verlauf bei einer 59-jährigen Patientin mit seit drei Tagen bestehender wässeriger Rhinorrhö, leichtem Husten und neu aufgetretenen Kopfschmerzen. Die notfallmässigen Abklärungen ergaben die Diagnose einer akuten bakteriellen Meningitis, worauf eine empirische Behandlung gestartet wurde. Bei Vigilanzstörung und Zunahme der Rhinorrhö konnte laboranalytisch mittels Beta-Traceä-Test eine Rhinoliquorrhö nachgewiesen werden. Nach initialer Stabilisierung der Patientin erfolgte eine chirurgische Schädelbasisexploration, in welcher beidseitige Liquorlecks verschlossen werden konnten.
Neurological heterotopic ossification: novel mechanisms, prognostic biomarkers and prophylactic therapies
Authors: Wong Ker Rui , Mychasiuk Richelle , O’Brien Terence J. , Shultz Sandy R. , McDonald Stuart J. , Brady Rhys D.
Published: December 2020

Neurological heterotopic ossification (NHO) is a debilitating condition where bone forms in soft tissue, such as muscle surrounding the hip and knee, following an injury to the brain or spinal cord. This abnormal formation of bone can result in nerve impingement, pain, contractures and impaired movement. Patients are often diagnosed with NHO after the bone tissue has completely mineralised, leaving invasive surgical resection the only remaining treatment option. Surgical resection of NHO creates potential for added complications, particularly in patients with concomitant injury to the central nervous system (CNS). Although recent work has begun to shed light on the physiological mechanisms involved in NHO, there remains a significant knowledge gap related to the prognostic biomarkers and prophylactic treatments which are necessary to prevent NHO and optimise patient outcomes. This article reviews the current understanding pertaining to NHO epidemiology, pathobiology, biomarkers and treatment options. In particular, we focus on how concomitant CNS injury may drive ectopic bone formation and discuss considerations for treating polytrauma patients with NHO. We conclude that understanding of the pathogenesis of NHO is rapidly advancing, and as such, there is the strong potential for future research to unearth methods capable of identifying patients likely to develop NHO, and targeted treatments to prevent its manifestation.
Male sex identified by global COVID-19 meta-analysis as a risk factor for death and ITU admission
Authors: Peckham Hannah , de Gruijter Nina M. , Raine Charles , Radziszewska Anna , Ciurtin Coziana , Wedderburn Lucy R. , Rosser Elizabeth C. , Webb Kate , Deakin Claire T.
Published: December 2020

Anecdotal evidence suggests that Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, exhibits differences in morbidity and mortality between sexes. Here, we present a meta-analysis of 3,111,714 reported global cases to demonstrate that, whilst there is no difference in the proportion of males and females with confirmed COVID-19, male patients have almost three times the odds of requiring intensive treatment unit (ITU) admission (OR = 2.84; 95% CI = 2.06, 3.92) and higher odds of death (OR = 1.39; 95% CI = 1.31, 1.47) compared to females. With few exceptions, the sex bias observed in COVID-19 is a worldwide phenomenon. An appreciation of how sex is influencing COVID-19 outcomes will have important implications for clinical management and mitigation strategies for this disease.
Thermoplasmonic neural chip platform for in situ manipulation of neuronal connections in vitro
Authors: Hong Nari , Nam Yoonkey
Published: December 2020

Cultured neuronal networks with a controlled structure have been widely studied as an in vitro model system to investigate the relationship between network structure and function. However, most cell culture techniques lack the ability to control network structures during cell cultivation, making it difficult to assess functional changes induced by specific structural changes. In this study, we present an in situ manipulation platform based on gold-nanorod-mediated thermoplasmonics to interrogate an in vitro network model. We find that it is possible to induce new neurite outgrowths, eliminate interconnecting neurites, and estimate functional relationships in matured neuronal networks. This method is expected to be useful for studying functional dynamics of neural networks under controlled structural changes.
Condensation of Rubisco into a proto-pyrenoid in higher plant chloroplasts
Authors: Atkinson Nicky , Mao Yuwei , Chan Kher Xing , McCormick Alistair J.
Published: December 2020

Photosynthetic CO2 fixation in plants is limited by the inefficiency of the CO2-assimilating enzyme Rubisco. In most eukaryotic algae, Rubisco aggregates within a microcompartment known as the pyrenoid, in association with a CO2-concentrating mechanism that improves photosynthetic operating efficiency under conditions of low inorganic carbon. Recent work has shown that the pyrenoid matrix is a phase-separated, liquid-like condensate. In the alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, condensation is mediated by two components: Rubisco and the linker protein EPYC1 (Essential Pyrenoid Component 1). Here, we show that expression of mature EPYC1 and a plant-algal hybrid Rubisco leads to spontaneous condensation of Rubisco into a single phase-separated compartment in Arabidopsis chloroplasts, with liquid-like properties similar to a pyrenoid matrix. This work represents a significant initial step towards enhancing photosynthesis in higher plants by introducing an algal CO2-concentrating mechanism, which is predicted to significantly increase the efficiency of photosynthetic CO2 uptake.
Temporal and spatial heterogeneity of host response to SARS-CoV-2 pulmonary infection
Authors: Desai Niyati , Neyaz Azfar , Szabolcs Annamaria , Shih Angela R. , Chen Jonathan H. , Thapar Vishal , Nieman Linda T. , Solovyov Alexander , Mehta Arnav , Lieb David J. , Kulkarni Anupriya S. , Jaicks Christopher , Xu Katherine H. , Raabe Michael J. , Pinto Christopher J. , Juric Dejan , Chebib Ivan , Colvin Robert B. , Kim Arthur Y. , Monroe Robert , Warren Sarah E. , Danaher Patrick , Reeves Jason W. , Gong Jingjing , Rueckert Erroll H. , Greenbaum Benjamin D. , Hacohen Nir , Lagana Stephen M. , Rivera Miguel N. , Sholl Lynette M. , Stone James R. , Ting David T. , Deshpande Vikram
Published: December 2020

The relationship of SARS-CoV-2 pulmonary infection and severity of disease is not fully understood. Here we show analysis of autopsy specimens from 24 patients who succumbed to SARS-CoV-2 infection using a combination of different RNA and protein analytical platforms to characterize inter-patient and intra-patient heterogeneity of pulmonary virus infection. There is a spectrum of high and low virus cases associated with duration of disease. High viral cases have high activation of interferon pathway genes and a predominant M1-like macrophage infiltrate. Low viral cases are more heterogeneous likely reflecting inherent patient differences in the evolution of host response, but there is consistent indication of pulmonary epithelial cell recovery based on napsin A immunohistochemistry and RNA expression of surfactant and mucin genes. Using a digital spatial profiling platform, we find the virus corresponds to distinct spatial expression of interferon response genes demonstrating the intra-pulmonary heterogeneity of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Thermostability profiling of MHC-bound peptides: a new dimension in immunopeptidomics and aid for immunotherapy design
Authors: Jappe Emma C. , Garde Christian , Ramarathinam Sri H. , Passantino Ethan , Illing Patricia T. , Mifsud Nicole A. , Trolle Thomas , Kringelum Jens V. , Croft Nathan P. , Purcell Anthony W.
Published: December 2020

The features of peptide antigens that contribute to their immunogenicity are not well understood. Although the stability of peptide-MHC (pMHC) is known to be important, current assays assess this interaction only for peptides in isolation and not in the context of natural antigen processing and presentation. Here, we present a method that provides a comprehensive and unbiased measure of pMHC stability for thousands of individual ligands detected simultaneously by mass spectrometry (MS). The method allows rapid assessment of intra-allelic and inter-allelic differences in pMHC stability and reveals profiles of stability that are broader than previously appreciated. The additional dimensionality of the data facilitated the training of a model which improves the prediction of peptide immunogenicity, specifically of cancer neoepitopes. This assay can be applied to any cells bearing MHC or MHC-like molecules, offering insight into not only the endogenous immunopeptidome, but also that of neoepitopes and pathogen-derived sequences.
Missense variant contribution to USP9X-female syndrome
Authors: Jolly Lachlan A. , Parnell Euan , Gardner Alison E. , Corbett Mark A. , Pérez-Jurado Luis A. , Shaw Marie , Lesca Gaetan , Keegan Catherine , Schneider Michael C. , Griffin Emily , Maier Felicitas , Kiss Courtney , Guerin Andrea , Crosby Kathleen , Rosenbaum Kenneth , Tanpaiboon Pranoot , Whalen Sandra , Keren Boris , McCarrier Julie , Basel Donald , Sadedin Simon , White Susan M. , Delatycki Martin B. , Kleefstra Tjitske , Küry Sébastien , Brusco Alfredo , Sukarova-Angelovska Elena , Trajkova Slavica , Yoon Sehoun , Wood Stephen A. , Piper Michael , Penzes Peter , Gecz Jozef
Published: December 2020

USP9X is an X-chromosome gene that escapes X-inactivation. Loss or compromised function of USP9X leads to neurodevelopmental disorders in males and females. While males are impacted primarily by hemizygous partial loss-of-function missense variants, in females de novo heterozygous complete loss-of-function mutations predominate, and give rise to the clinically recognisable USP9X-female syndrome. Here we provide evidence of the contribution of USP9X missense and small in-frame deletion variants in USP9X-female syndrome also. We scrutinise the pathogenicity of eleven such variants, ten of which were novel. Combined application of variant prediction algorithms, protein structure modelling, and assessment under clinically relevant guidelines universally support their pathogenicity. The core phenotype of this cohort overlapped with previous descriptions of USP9X-female syndrome, but exposed heightened variability. Aggregate phenotypic information of 35 currently known females with predicted pathogenic variation in USP9X reaffirms the clinically recognisable USP9X-female syndrome, and highlights major differences when compared to USP9X-male associated neurodevelopmental disorders.
A metastasis map of human cancer cell lines
Authors: Jin Xin , Demere Zelalem , Nair Karthik , Ali Ahmed , Ferraro Gino B. , Natoli Ted , Deik Amy , Petronio Lia , Tang Andrew A. , Zhu Cong , Wang Li , Rosenberg Danny , Mangena Vamsi , Roth Jennifer , Chung Kwanghun , Jain Rakesh K. , Clish Clary B. , Vander Heiden Matthew G. , Golub Todd R.
Published: December 2020

Most deaths from cancer are explained by metastasis, and yet large-scale metastasis research has been impractical owing to the complexity of in vivo models. Here we introduce an in vivo barcoding strategy that is capable of determining the metastatic potential of human cancer cell lines in mouse xenografts at scale. We validated the robustness, scalability and reproducibility of the method and applied it to 500 cell lines1,2 spanning 21 types of solid tumour. We created a first-generation metastasis map (MetMap) that reveals organ-specific patterns of metastasis, enabling these patterns to be associated with clinical and genomic features. We demonstrate the utility of MetMap by investigating the molecular basis of breast cancers capable of metastasizing to the brain—a principal cause of death in patients with this type of cancer. Breast cancers capable of metastasizing to the brain showed evidence of altered lipid metabolism. Perturbation of lipid metabolism in these cells curbed brain metastasis development, suggesting a therapeutic strategy to combat the disease and demonstrating the utility of MetMap as a resource to support metastasis research.
Copy number variations in primary tumor, serum and lymph node metastasis of bladder cancer patients treated with radical cystectomy
Authors: Soave Armin , Kluwe Lan , Yu Hang , Rink Michael , Gild Philipp , Vetterlein Malte W. , Marks Philipp , Sauter Guido , Fisch Margit , Meyer Christian P. , Ludwig Tim , Dahlem Roland , Minner Sarah , Pantel Klaus , Steinbach Bettina , Schwarzenbach Heidi
Published: December 2020

The aim of the present study was to analyze copy number variations (CNV) of multiple oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes in genomic DNA from primary tumor tissue, lymph node metastasis and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from serum of 72 urothelial carcinoma of bladder (UCB) patients treated with radical cystectomy (RC), using multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA). We hypothesized that primary tumor and lymph node metastasis show similar CNV profiles, and CNV are more present in lymph node metastasis compared to primary tumor tissue. Samples from 43 (59.7%) patients could be analyzed. In total, 35 (83%), 26 (68%) and 8 (42%) patients had CNV in primary tumor, serum and lymph node metastasis, respectively. MYC, CCND1, ERBB2 and CCNE1 displayed the most frequent amplifications. In particular, CNV in ERBB2 was associated with aggressive tumor characteristics. CNV in both ERBB2 and TOP2A were risk factors for disease recurrence. The current findings show that CNV are present in various oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes in genomic DNA from primary tumor, lymph node metastasis and cfDNA from serum. CNV were more present in genomic DNA from primary tumor tissue compared to cfDNA from serum and genomic DNA from lymph node metastasis. Patients with CNV in ERBB2 and TOP2A are at increased risk for disease recurrence following RC. Further studies are necessary to validate, whether these genes may represent promising candidates for targeted-therapy.
The SNP rs7865618 of 9p21.3 locus emerges as the most promising marker of coronary artery disease in the southern Indian population
Authors: Manjula Gorre , Pranavchand Rayabarapu , Kumuda Irgam , Reddy B. Sriteja , Reddy Battini Mohan
Published: December 2020

Development of coronary artery disease (CAD) is primarily due to the process of atherosclerosis, however the prognosis of CAD depends on pleiotropic effects of the genes located at 9p21.3 region. Genome wide association studies revealed association of variants in this region with CAD pathology. However, specific marker in predicting CAD development or progression is not yet identified. In the present study, 35 SNPs at 9p21.3 region, located in the cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKN2A/CDKN2B) genes, were genotyped among 350 CAD cases and 480 controls from the southern Indian population of Hyderabad using fluidigm nanofluidic SNP genotyping system and the data were analyzed using PLINK and R softwares. Of the 35 SNPs analysed, only one SNP, rs7865618, was found to be highly significantly associated with CAD, even after correction for multiple testing (p = 0.008). The AG and GG genotypes of this SNP conferred 3.08 and 1.93 folds increased risk for CAD respectively. In particular, this SNP was significantly associated with severe anatomic (triple vessel disease p = 0.023) and phenotypic (acute coronary syndrome p = 0.007) categories of CAD. Pair wise SNP interaction analysis between the SNPs of 9p21.3 and 11q23.3 regions revealed significantly increased risk of three SNPs of 11q23.3 region that were not associated individually, in conjunction with rs7865618 of 9p21.3.
Field application of an improved protocol for environmental DNA extraction, purification, and measurement using Sterivex filter
Authors: Wong Marty Kwok-Shing , Nakao Mako , Hyodo Susumu
Published: December 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is increasingly popular as a useful non-invasive method to monitor and study biodiversity and community structure in freshwater and marine environments. To effectively extract eDNA from the filter surface is a fundamental factor determining the representativeness of the samples. We improved the eDNA extraction efficiency of an established Sterivex method by 12- to 16-fold using a larger volume of lysis buffer mix coupled with backflushing the cartridges. The DNeasy extraction column could be overloaded when the environmental sample input is high, possibly due to a higher nonspecific binding present in environmental samples, thus resulting in a relatively lower quantity measured. Therefore, we included an internal control DNA in the extraction to monitor the extraction and purification efficiencies in field samples, which is crucial for quantification of original eDNA concentration. The use of Takara Probe qPCR Mix supplemented with protein-based additives improved the robustness of the real time PCR assay on inhibitor-rich environmental samples, but prior purification by Qiagen PowerClean Pro Cleanup kit could be essential for inhibitor-rich water samples, even though the recovery rate was unexpectedly low (average 33.0%). The improved extraction and quantification complement the qualitative analyses including metabarcoding and metagenomics in field application.
Radiographic and clinical assessment of unidirectional porous hydroxyapatite to treat benign bone tumors
Authors: Kunisada Toshiyuki , Hasei Joe , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Nakata Eiji , Yokoo Suguru , Demiya Koji , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: December 2020

Unidirectional porous hydroxyapatite (UDPHAp) was developed as an excellent scaffold with unidirectional pores oriented in the horizontal direction with interpore connections. The purpose of this study was to assess radiographic changes and clinical outcomes and complications following UDPHAp implantation to treat benign bone tumors. We retrospectively analyzed 44 patients treated with intralesional resection and UDPHAp implantation for benign bone tumors between 2010 and 2015. Clinical and radiographic findings were evaluated postoperatively at regular follow-up visits. The mean follow-up was 49 months. Radiographic changes were classified into five stages based on bone formation in the implanted UDPHAp according to Tamai’s classification. All patients showed excellent bone formation inside and around implanted UDPHAp. Absorption of UDPHAp and bone marrow cavity remodeling was identified in 20 patients at a mean of 17 months postoperatively, and was significantly more common in young patients. Preoperative cortical thinning was completely regenerated in 26 of 31 patients on average 10 months after surgery. There were no cases of delayed wound healing, postoperative infection, or allergic reaction related to implanted UDPHAp. UDPHAp is a useful bone-filling substitute for treating benign bone tumor, and the use of this material has a low complication rate.
Carotid imaging changes and serum IL-1β, sICAM-1, and sVAP-1 levels in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Chen Xiaoxu , Feng Huimin , Liu Hongjin , Xu Xianrong , Wang Jianchang , Jin Zhanguo
Published: December 2020

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo. This study was performed to evaluate serum levels of inflammatory factors and changes in B-mode carotid ultrasound findings in patients with BPPV. The study population consisted of 90 BPPV patients and 90 age- and sex-matched controls. ELISA was used to compare the levels of inflammatory factors, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), prostaglandin-E2 (PG-E2), and soluble vascular adhesion protein-1 (sVAP-1), between BPPV patients and controls. In addition, the results of ultrasonographic imaging to determine carotid intima-media thickness (C-IMT), carotid atheromatous plaque, and vertebral artery stenosis were also compared between the BPPV and control groups. Serum levels of IL-1β, sICAM-1, and sVAP-1 were significantly higher in BPPV patients than controls (P < 0.001,P < 0.05, andP < 0.001, respectively). C-IMT and vertebral artery stenosis were significantly different in BPPV patients compared to controls (bothP < 0.05). There were no significant relations between other parameters and BPPV. IL-1β, sICAM-1, and sVAP-1 are potentially associated with the pathogenesis of BPPV, and C-ITM and carotid vertebral stenosis may be useful reference imaging findings for the diagnosis of BPPV.
The role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography in the differential diagnosis of pericardial disease
Authors: Hyeon Cheol Won , Yi Hyun Kyung , Kim Eun Kyoung , Park Sung-Ji , Lee Sang-Chol , Park Seung Woo , Oh Jae K. , Choi Joon Young , Chang Sung-A
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to assess the role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18FDG-PET/CT) in the differential diagnosis of pericardial disease. The diagnosis is often troublesome because pericardial fluid analysis or biopsy does not always provide answers. 18FDG-PET/CT can visualize both inflammation and malignancy and offers a whole-body assessment. Patients who visited the Pericardial Disease Clinic of Samsung Medical Center with an 18FDG-PET/CT order code were extracted. Exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) the purpose of the differential diagnosis was not pericardial disease; (2) the patient had a known advanced-stage malignancy; (3) the patient already have confirmative diagnosis using a serology, pericardial effusion analysis or biopsy. The analysis included 107 patients. The most common final diagnosis was idiopathic (n = 46, 43.0%), followed by tuberculosis (n = 30, 28.0%) and neoplastic (n = 11, 10.3%). A maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) ≥ 5 typically indicates tuberculosis or neoplastic pericarditis except in just one case of autoimmune pericarditis); especially all of the SUVmax scores ≥ 10 had tuberculosis. The diagnostic yield of pericardial biopsy was very low (10.2%). Interestingly, all of the pericardium with an SUVmax < 4.4 had nondiagnostic results. In contrast, targeted biopsies based on 18FDG uptake demonstrated a higher diagnostic yield (38.7%) than pericardium. The sensitivity of 18FDG-PET/CT was 63.6%. The specificity was 71.9%. The positive predictive value was 20.6%. The negative predictive value 94.5%, and the accuracy was 71.0% for excluding malignancy based upon the FDG uptake patterns. It is possible to explore the differential diagnosis in some patients with difficult pericardiocentesis or pericardial biopsy in a noninvasive manner using on the SUVmax or uptake patterns. In addition, the biopsy strategy depending on 18FDG uptake is helpful to achieve biopsy more safely and with a higher yield. 18FDG-PET may enhance the diagnostic efficacy in patients with pericardial disease.
2D nanosheets and composites for EMI shielding analysis
Authors: Khan Ramsha , Khan Zeeshan Mehmood , Aqeel Hamza Bin , Javed Sofia , Shafqat Ahmed , Qazi Ibrahim , Basit Muhammad Abdul , Jan Rahim
Published: December 2020

Liquid exfoliated, 2-dimensional (2D), few layered graphene and molybdenum disulfide nanosheets (GNS and MNS) are size selected for EMI shielding application. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has confirmed the lateral dimensions increase (1–2 µm for GNS and MNS) with lowering centrifugation speed (1000 to 500 rpm). The micron size (~ 15 µm) restacked structures of GNS and MNS (L ~ 2 µm) over a nylon membrane have shown ~ 16 dB and ~ 6 dB EMI shielding effectiveness (1–8 GHz frequency), respectively. The enhanced EMI shielding effectiveness for GNS-500 may be credited to its high carrier mobility as well as high aspect ratio of nanosheets. The GNS-500 are further dispersed (0.3 wt.%) in thermoplastic polyurethane for their applicability as flexible EMI shielding material. The dielectric characteristics predicted an enhancement for the attenuation (200 MHz–1 GHz). The experimental results (1–8 GHz) suggested the maximum attenuation ~ 18 dB showing the composite applicability as a broadband EMI shielding material.
Effect of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment on preoperative and postoperative retinal sensitivities
Authors: Noda Hiroshi , Kimura Shuhei , Hosokawa Mio Morizane , Shiode Yusuke , Doi Shinichiro , Takahashi Kosuke , Matoba Ryo , Kanzaki Yuki , Fujiwara Atsushi , Morizane Yuki
Published: December 2020

This retrospective study investigated foveal and perifoveal retinal sensitivities using microperimetry before and after surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Consecutive patients with RRD who underwent vitrectomy or scleral buckling were included. Comprehensive ophthalmological examinations, including microperimetry and swept-source optical coherence tomography, were performed before and 6 months after surgery. Pre- and postoperative retinal sensitivities at the fovea and 4 perifoveal measurement points farthest from the fixation point, both vertically and horizontally (superior, inferior, nasal, and temporal) were examined. A total of 34 foveal and 136 perifoveal measurement points in 34 eyes of 34 patients were evaluated. The postoperative retinal sensitivity was significantly higher than the preoperative value at foveal and perifoveal points with (P < 0.001 for both) and without (fovea: P = 0.005, perifovea: P < 0.001) RRD. The postoperative retinal sensitivity was significantly lower at foveal (P < 0.01) and perifoveal (P < 0.001) points with preoperative RRD than at points without preoperative RRD; furthermore, it was significantly better at points with ellipsoid zone (Ez) continuity than at points with Ez discontinuity (fovea: P < 0.01, perifovea: P < 0.001). RRD deteriorates retinal sensitivity, regardless of its presence or absence at the measurement point before surgery. Postoperative Ez continuity is important for good postoperative retinal sensitivity.
Author Correction: Seasonal variability of net sea-air CO2 fluxes in a coastal region of the northern Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Monteiro Thiago , Kerr Rodrigo , da Costa Machado Eunice
Published: December 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Computational Vibrational Spectroscopy: A Contemporary Perspective
Authors: Alonso de Armiño Diego J. , González Lebrero Mariano C. , Scherlis Damián A. , Estrin Darío A.
Published: December 2020

In this chapter, we present a brief analysis of the state of the art in the field of computational vibrational spectroscopy. We discuss the latest achievements in the modelling of vibrational spectroscopy experiments applied to various physical and chemical phenomena, and the different levels of detail the theory can offer in each case. We analyze a wide variety of methods: from harmonic to fully anharmonic and from classical to full quantum-mechanical schemes. The latest advances in the inclusion of environmental effects are also accounted for, with particular emphasis on biological systems applications and hybrid quantum-classical QM/MM simulation techniques. We also identify what we consider to be the main challenges, and the perspectives for future advances in this rapidly evolving, and exciting field.
Applications of Computational Intelligence Techniques in Chemical and Biochemical Analysis
Authors: Gibson Miles , Percival Benita , Grootveld Martin , Woodason Katy , Leenders Justine , Nwosu Kingsley , Kamerlin Shina Caroline Lynn , Wilson Philippe B.
Published: December 2020

This chapter provides an overview of AI methods as applied to selected areas of analytical chemistry and bioanalysis. We first present a brief historical perspective prior to discussing the applications of ML in chemistry, developing this to neural networks, swarm optimisation methods and additional data treatment and analysis methodologies. We present component analysis techniques and random forest with examples from the literature and offer a perspective on the future of such applications, with advances in computing power and quantum computing methodologies.
Bridging the Gap Between Atomistic Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Wet-lab Experimental Techniques: Applications to Membrane Proteins
Authors: Delemotte Lucie
Published: December 2020

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations provide atomistic insights into not only the structure, but also the dynamics and ensemble properties of (bio-)molecular systems, hence providing a direct link to functional characterization using wet-lab experiments. The models, algorithms and hardware needed to conduct MD simulations have matured, meaning that reliable estimates of ensemble properties can now be obtained. However, the choice of model and protocol is non-trivial and cannot be fully automated yet, therefore an understanding of the models, the algorithms and the insights that can be obtained, and of how they can be combined with the output of other techniques, is necessary. This chapter provides a description of the MD algorithm, including extensions of the methodology to generate conformational ensembles representing functional states. The insights that MD simulations can provide into membrane protein functions are then illustrated using case studies. They are classified according to whether they provide testable hypotheses, provide molecular-level interpretation of experimental observables, or they exploit experimental data to drive the sampling of simulations towards biological timescales.
Epigenetic Reprogramming by Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals
Authors: Chung Felicia Fei-Lei , Khoueiry Rita , Herceg Zdenko
Published: December 2020

Public concern over endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and their effects on human and environmental health has increased in recent years. Exposure to EDCs has been associated with increased risk of endocrine-related cancers, diabetes, adiposity, and reduced fertility in humans, abnormalities in bone tissue in livestock, and modified sex ratios in wildlife. Moreover, accumulating evidence indicates that exposure to relatively low doses of EDCs early in life could have lasting effects on individual health. However, in spite of increased scrutiny and investigation, the mechanistic basis by which EDCs induce long-term or even transgenerational effects has yet to be fully elucidated. Epigenetic marks, which are heritable but reversible chromatin modifications that can lead to alterations in gene expression, are one of the mechanisms thought to be responsible for these effects. As the epigenome is responsive to environmental stimuli, it is thought to be an integral link between genetic and environmental risk factors that lead to disease. In this chapter, we provide an overview of epigenetic regulation, and a review of EDCs known to affect the epigenome. We also discuss the advantages and challenges of applying epigenetic knowledge in risk assessments for EDC exposure, and measures that can be taken to overcome these challenges.
Integrated Translation Framework for Endocrine Disruptors in the area of Computational Toxicology
Authors: Kumar V. , Deepika Deepika , Sharma R. P.
Published: December 2020

In the recent past, there has been a tremendous increase in the kind of data being generated by high-throughput analysis (omics) for endocrine disruptors (EDs). In parallel, several in silico tools [physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK), pharmacodynamic (PD), systems biology and adverse outcome pathways (AOPs)] offer an opportunity to understand the biological complexity of EDs and environmental risk assessment. Along with the development of new tools and techniques in toxicological research, it is also necessary to have a continuous re-evaluation of existing data, data integration, and knowledge-based translation that might enable assessment of the human health risk of EDs. There is a need for a platform that integrates in vitro, in vivo, and several in silico models into one framework to directly tie the results to a predictive adverse outcomes model. The objective of this chapter is to introduce an in silico framework that integrates several models at the organ, molecular, cellular and genetic scale, we hereby describe integrative systems toxicology approaches that could be used in the human health risk assessment for EDs. This integrative systems toxicology will offer a quantitative understanding of the EDs adverse effects on a biological system, through the integration of exposome–internal exposure–molecular or cellular response to the adverse stimulus. Such in silico platform will be a dynamic tool to efficiently reduce the risk of EDs for public health.
Sex-specific Actions of Endocrine Disruptors
Authors: van Larebeke N. , Fucic Aleksandra
Published: December 2020

Consistent evidence indicates that endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) often induce different adverse effects in males and females, in laboratory animals as well as in humans. This phenomenon is, at least partly, a consequence of sex-specific levels of steroid hormones and/or steroid hormone receptors in tissues and organisms, which also vary throughout development before full sexual maturity. This implies the need for sex-specific evaluation when assessing whether and through what mechanism(s) a substance has an endocrine disrupting effect. Investigations of EDCs and their mixtures on animal models may be of great significance, yet interpretation needs specific care as, for example, rodents show differences from humans with regard to the homeostasis of steroid hormones as well as hormone receptors. It is of the utmost interest to explore sex-related differences in EDCs’ effects on non-reproductive tissues: in particular, this chapter discusses the research findings concerning the immune system, adipose tissue and especially neurobehavioral development. The assessment of EDC effects in mechanistic, toxicological or epidemiological studies should always include an analysis of sex-related differences.
Bone as a Target for Endocrine Disruptors
Authors: Khalil N. , Koskela A.
Published: December 2020

Bone is a dynamic tissue that undergoes changes throughout the life of the individual in response to external and internal stimuli. At the cellular level, osteoclasts and osteoblasts act in syncytial mode, resorbing and adding new bone, respectively. This homeostasis is strictly controlled. Many risk factors for decreased bone quality, such as older age, female sex, lack of exercise and nutrition, have been known for decades. Despite this, the role of environmental chemicals and especially endocrine disruptors (EDs) have only recently been connected to adverse bone effects, as estrogen and testosterone are the key hormones in regulating bone tissue. This chapter focuses on the endocrine disruptors, dioxins, tributyltin, phthalates, perfluoroalkylated substances, diethylstilbestrol and bisphenol-A, as these are the most common EDs of which the exposure effects on bone have been investigated. In addition, we discuss the possibility of bone acting as a reservoir for EDs, which highlights the role of bone in toxicology.
Pathways of ED-induced Neuro-developmental Disturbances: An Overview
Authors: Gutleb A. C.
Published: December 2020

The human brain and its development both before birth, and after birth, when it significantly further develops until adulthood, is dependent on cell multiplication, migration, differentiation and establishment of connections. All these steps are dependent on different elements happening at just the exact time point and during specific time windows that influence neurogenesis, neuronal cell migration, the differentiation of neuronal and glial cells, myelination and synaptogenesis. The endocrine signalling system has a critical role in regulating neurodevelopment; in particular, the thyroid hormone (TH) system plays a central role in brain development among the many other important functions THs have in vertebrate physiology. Many chemicals have the potential to interfere with this finely tuned chain of events; several of them, to which humans are exposed, are known to be thyroid hormone disrupting compounds (THDCs) and have been shown to interact with virtually all elements of TH homeostasis and thereby also neurodevelopment. Especially, early life-stage exposure may result in permanent alterations of tissue organization and homeostatic regulation of adaptive processes. This is highly relevant as the reported concentrations of THDCs in human plasma fall well within the range of reported in vitro effect concentrations.
Biomarkers of Effect for EDCs and Indicators to be Used in Epidemiological Studies on Reproductive Health
Authors: Ribeiro E. , Ladeira C. , Viegas S.
Published: December 2020

Human exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals, particularly at low doses, is ubiquitous, persistent and occurs in complex mixtures with associated health effects that cannot be predicted when analyzing single compounds independently. Concomitant exposure to these compounds, particularly in critical windows of exposure, may therefore result in hazardous health effects in the exposed individuals and in the offspring, potentially associated with a complex ‘body burden’ of different origins. For the past decades, several epidemiological studies have been performed in an effort to develop biomarkers of effect with the ability to evaluate and potentially predict the risk of disease.
A simple, rapid and low-cost spectrophotometric method for irinotecan quantification in human plasma and in pharmaceutical dosage forms
Authors: Tsotsou Georgia Eleni , Gkotzamani Panagiota , Petro Victoria , Argyropoulou Ariadne , Karkalousos Petros
Published: December 2020

We are proposing the first widely applicable spectrophotometric method, after minimal pretreatment, for irinotecan quantification in plasma, to guide personalized dose adjustment and for quality control of irinotecan bulk or injection dosage.
Molecular layer deposition of Li-ion conducting “Lithicone” solid electrolytes
Authors: Kazyak Eric , Shin Minjeong , LePage William S. , Cho Tae H. , Dasgupta Neil P.
Published: December 2020

Molecular Layer Deposition (MLD) of “lithicone” thin films is demonstrated, which behave as ionically-conductive solid electrolytes for future battery applications.
Broad bandwidth emission and in situ electric field modulation of photoluminescence in Nd-doped ferroelectric crystals
Authors: Xu Lan , Wang Zujian , Su Bin , Xiong Junjie , Yang Xiaoming , Su Rongbing , He Chao , Long Xifa
Published: December 2020

The broad bandwidth emission of 33 nm and a tunable luminescence were achieved in Nd-doped Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 crystal arising from polarization.
Amphiphilic fluorescent probe self-encored in plasma to detect pH fluctuations in cancer cell membranes
Authors: Podder Arup , Joseph Manu M. , Biswas Shayeri , Samanta Sanjib , Maiti Kaustabh K. , Bhuniya Sankarprasad
Published: December 2020

Newly developed an amphiphilic “turn-on” fluorescent probe (P1CS) enables to distinguish of cancer cells from normal cells through mapping of pH fluctuations in cell-surface.
Upconversion in molecular hetero-nonanuclear lanthanide complexes in solution
Authors: Knighton Richard C. , Soro Lohona K. , Lecointre Alexandre , Pilet Guillaume , Fateeva Alexandra , Pontille Laurie , Francés-Soriano Laura , Hildebrandt Niko , Charbonnière Loïc J.
Published: December 2020

An unprecedented efficiency of upconversion is observed in a nonanuclear Yb8Tb complex with green emission upon NIR excitation of Yb.
A nonlinear optical cadmium(ii)-based metal–organic framework with chiral helical chains derived from an achiral bent dicarboxylate ligand
Authors: Hsu Kai-Ting , Thanasekaran Pounraj , Hsu Ting-Wei , Su Cing-Huei , Chang Bor-Chen , Liu Yen-Hsiang , Hung Chen-Hsiung , Lu Kuang-Lieh
Published: December 2020

The design of a nonlinear optical (NLO) MOF material from an achiral bent dicarboxylate ligand is presented.
Systematic screening forktype phase transitions – general approach and positive example for a binuclear Cu(ii) paddlewheel structure
Authors: Strothmann Robert , van Terwingen Steven , Kalf Irmgard , Englert Ulli
Published: December 2020

How to screen forktype phase transitions? Pseudo symmetry in reciprocal space represents a successful answer.
Deep eutectic solvents as non-traditionally multifunctional media for the desulfurization process of fuel oil
Authors: Zhu Zhiguo , Lü Hongying , Zhang Ming , Yang Hengquan
Published: December 2020

This review summarizes the physicochemical properties of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and their applications for the desulfurization processes of fuel oil. Moreover, current challenges and future opportunity are discussed.
Infrared action spectroscopy of nitrous oxide on cationic gold and cobalt clusters
Authors: Cunningham Ethan M. , Green Alice E. , Meizyte Gabriele , Gentleman Alexander S. , Beardsmore Peter W. , Schaller Sascha , Pollow Kai M. , Saroukh Karim , Förstel Marko , Dopfer Otto , Schöllkopf Wieland , Fielicke André , Mackenzie Stuart R.
Published: December 2020

Infrared multiple-photon dissociation spectroscopy reveals the nature of nitrous oxide binding to metal clusters.
Spectroscopic properties and spin–orbit coupling of electronic excited states of the germanium dimer
Authors: Xue Jianlei , Liu Yong , Lian Yi , Li Rui , Liu Xueshen , Xu Haifeng , Yan Bing
Published: December 2020

The transition properties of Ge2 are investigated and the previously observed spectra in the range 20 500–22 000 cm−1 are reassigned.
Correction: Temperature control in DRIFT cells used for in situ and operando studies: where do we stand today?
Authors: Melián-Cabrera Ignacio
Published: December 2020

Correction for ‘Temperature control in DRIFT cells used for in situ and operando studies: where do we stand today?’ by Ignacio Melián-Cabrera, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2020, DOI: 10.1039/d0cp04352d.
Sum frequency generation spectroscopy in heterogeneous model catalysis: a minireview of CO-related processes
Authors: Li Xia , Rupprechter Günther
Published: December 2020

Sum frequency generation (SFG) vibrational spectroscopy is applied to ambient pressure surface science studies of adsorption and catalytic reactions at solid/gas interfaces.