bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multimodal mapping and analysis of the cyto- and receptorarchitecture of the human hippocampus
Authors: Palomero-Gallagher Nicola , Kedo Olga , Mohlberg Hartmut , Zilles Karl , Amunts Katrin
Published: January 2020

The human hippocampal formation is relevant for various aspects of memory and learning, and the different hippocampal regions are differentially affected by neuropsychiatric disorders. Therefore, the hippocampal formation has been subject of numerous cytoarchitectonic and other mapping studies, which resulted in divergent parcellation schemes. To understand the principles of hippocampal architecture, it is necessary to integrate different levels of hippocampal organisation, going beyond one modality. We here applied a multimodal mapping approach combining cyto- and multi-receptorarchitectonic analyses, and generated probabilistic maps in stereotaxic space of the identified regions. Cytoarchitecture in combination with the regional and laminar distribution of 15 neurotransmitter receptors visualized by in vitro receptor autoradiography were analysed in seven hemispheres from 6 unfixed shock frozen and serially sectioned brains. Cytoarchitectonic delineations for generation of probabilistic maps were carried out on histological sections from ten fixed, paraffin embedded and serially sectioned brains. Nine cyto- and receptorarchitectonically distinct regions were identified within the hippocampal formation (i.e., fascia dentata, cornu Ammonis (CA) regions 1–4, prosubiculum, subiculum proper, presubiculum and parasubiculum), as well as the hippocampal-amygdaloid transition area and the periallocortical transsubiculum. Subsequently generated probabilistic maps quantify intersubject variability in the size and extent of these cyto- and receptorarchitectonically distinct regions. The regions did not differ in their volume between the hemispheres and gender. Receptor mapping revealed additional subdivisions which could not be detected by cytoarchitectonic analysis alone. They correspond to parcellations previously found in immunohistochemical and connectivity studies. The multimodal approach enabled the definition of regions not consistently reported, e.g., CA4 region or prosubiculum. The ensuing detailed probabilistic maps of the hippocampal formation constitute the basis for future architectonically informed analyses of in vivo neuroimaging studies.
How to bridge the gap? European medical plants used for treating oral mucositis: on the search for evidence
Authors: Buentzel Judith , Bauer Christoph , Buentzel Jens
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Oral mucositis is a common, painful side effect of cancer treatment—be it locoregional (e.g. irradiation) or systemic (e. g. chemotherapy). Phytotherapy is often used by patients to alleviate symptoms. However, knowledge on which medical plants are recommended by literature about Traditional European Medicine (TEM), their effect(s) on symptoms and their efficacy is severely lacking. Therefore, we developed a novel approach to assess traditional knowledge of herbals used in TEM and searched the online databases for studies reporting effects of these plants.

Methods

At first, online research did not yield a satisfying number of studies (MESH terms: “mucositis” OR “stomatitis” AND “herbal” OR “herbal medicine”). Trials were labelled by the country conducting the study. In parallel, we compiled a list of 78 plants recommended for treating oral mucositis by screening 14 books on TEM. Then, a “hit list” of the plants most often mentioned was composed and used further for a second online investigation using the Latin plant designations as MESH term. Studies of both online searches were pooled for analysis.

Results

There is a gap between traditional knowledge and trials investigating medical plants used by TEM. Overall, herbal remedies alleviate oral mucositis and especially, gingivitis well. There is good evidence for using Matricaria recutita L., Salvia officinalis L., Calendula officinalis L. and Thymus spp. L. for treating oral mucositis.

Conclusion

Clinical trials investigating medical plants known in TEM are rare. However, following our research strategy, we could extrapolate four plants with good evidence for alleviating symptoms of oral mucositis and gingivitis.
Long non-coding RNA MALAT1 facilitates the tumorigenesis, invasion and glycolysis of multiple myeloma via miR-1271-5p/SOX13 axis
Authors: Liu Na , Feng Song , Li Huanhuan , Chen Xiaoguang , Bai Songting , Liu Yufeng
Published: January 2020

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in the regulation and treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). The objective of this research was to study the functional mechanism of metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) in MM.

Methods

MALAT1, microRNA-1271-5p (miR-1271-5p), and SRY-Box 13 (SOX13) levels were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell viability, apoptosis, and invasion were respectively assayed using 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-y1)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, and transwell assay. Glycolysis was evaluated by glucose consumption, lactate production, ATP/ADP ratio, and the detection of related enzymes. Associated proteins were measured using Western blot. Target relation was verified via dual-luciferase reporter assay. Xenograft tumor assay was implemented to study the influence of MALAT1 on MM in vivo.

Results

The up-regulation of MALAT1 and the down-regulation of miR-1271-5p were found in MM serums and cells. MALAT1 knockdown suppressed cell viability, invasion, and glycolysis while expedited cell apoptosis in MM cells. MALAT1 directly targeted miR-1271-5p and miR-1271-5p depression reverted the effects of MALAT1 knockdown on MM cells. SOX13 was a target of miR-1271-5p and SOX13 overexpression weakened the effects of miR-1271-5p on MM. MALAT1 indirectly modulated SOX13 expression through targeting miR-1271-5p. MALAT1 down-regulation inhibited MM growth by miR-1271-5p/SOX13 axis in vivo.

Conclusion

LncRNA MALAT1 expedited MM tumorigenesis, invasion, and glycolysis via miR-1271-5p/SOX13 axis. MALAT1 might contribute to the therapy of MM as a promising indicator.
Let us talk about death: gender effects in cancer patients’ preferences for end-of-life discussions
Authors: Seifart C. , Riera Knorrenschild J. , Hofmann M. , Nestoriuc Y. , Rief W. , von Blanckenburg P.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Patients with advanced cancer often receive suboptimal end-of-life (EOL) care. Particularly males with advanced cancer are more likely to receive EOL care that is more aggressive, even if death is imminent. Critical factors determining EOL care are EOL conversations or advance care planning. However, information about gender-related factors influencing EOL conversations is lacking. Therefore, the current study investigates gender differences concerning the content, the desired time point, and the mode of initiation of EOL conversations in cancer patients.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, 186 female and male cancer patients were asked about their preferences for EOL discussions using a semi-structured interview, focusing on (a) the importance of six different topics (medical and nursing care, organizational, emotional, social, and spiritual/religious aspects), (b) the desired time point, and (c) the mode of discussion initiation.

Results

The importance of EOL topics differs significantly regarding issue (p = 0.002, η2 = 0.02) and gender (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.11). Males wish to avoid the engagement in discussions about death and dying particularly if they are anxious about their end-of-life period. They wish to be addressed regarding the “hard facts” nursing and medical care only. In contrast, females prefer to speak more about “soft facts” and to be addressed about each EOL topic. Independent of gender, the majority of patients prefer to talk rather late: when the disease is getting worse (58%), at the end of their therapy, or when loosing self-sufficiency (27.5%).

Conclusion

The tendency of patients to talk late about EOL issues increases the risk of delayed or missed EOL conversations, which may be due to a knowledge gap regarding the possibility of disease-associated incapability. Furthermore, there are significant gender differences influencing the access to EOL conversations. Therefore, for daily clinical routine, we suggest an early two-step, gender-sensitive approach to end-of-life conversations.
Solenoidal difference quotients and their application to the regularity theory of the p-Stokes system
Authors: Křepela Martin , Růžička Michael
Published: January 2020

We prove existence of a solution to the divergence equation satisfying a new Bogovski-type estimate for the difference quotients. This enables us to give an alternative proof of the interior regularity of the solution to the p-Stokes problem, completely avoiding the pressure. Moreover, as a key preliminary result we prove boundedness of Calderón–Zygmund operators with standard kernels in weighted Lebesgue and Orlicz spaces over a general domain.
Assessment of bone quality at the lumbar and sacral spine using CT scans: a retrospective feasibility study in 50 comparing CT and DXA data
Authors: Berger-Groch J. , Thiesen D. M. , Ntalos D. , Hennes F. , Hartel M. J.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Computed tomography (CT) is a standard diagnostic tool for preoperative screening for many indications in spinal and pelvic surgery. The gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis is standard dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The aim of the present study was to compare the accuracy of Hounsfield unit (HU) measurements not only at the lower lumbar, but also at the sacral spine using standard CT scans.

Patients and methods

Main inclusion criterion for this retrospective analysis in 50 patients was the availability of both a CT scan of the lumbar and sacral spines and a DXA scan. HUs were measured in intact vertebral bodies L4, L5 and S1. Results of the HU in CT scan were compared to the T-score and bone mineral density in DXA. A group with normal bone density (T-score higher − 1, n = 26) was compared with a group with impaired bone density (T-score lower − 1, n = 24).

Results

A multivariant binary logistic regression analysis showed significant results for HU measurement in L4 (p = 0.009), L5 (p = 0.005) and S1 (p = 0.046) with respect to differentiation between normal and impaired bone quality. Cutoffs between normal and impaired bone density values for trabecular region of interest attenuation for L4, L5 and S1 are presented. In L4 100% sensitivity to detect normal bone was reached when HU was higher than 161, HU higher than 157 in L5 and HU higher than 207 in S1.

Conclusions

HU measurements in CT scans have proven to be a feasible tool to additionally assess bone quality at the lumbar and sacral spine with good sensitivity, when compared with the gold standard DXA.

Level of evidence

III.

Graphic abstract

These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
Development of a template tool for facilitating fibula osteotomy in reconstruction of mandibular defects by digital analysis of the human mandible
Authors: Nobis Christopher-Philipp , Kesting Marco Rainer , Wolff Klaus-Dietrich , Frohwitter Gesche , Rau Andrea , Weitz Jochen
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Mandibular reconstruction after segmental mandibulectomy can be challenging without virtual surgical planning and osteotomy guides. The purpose of this study was to analyze anatomic parameters to facilitate the evaluation of ideal fibula wedge osteotomies to reconstruct the neomandibula in a simple and cost-effective manner without the need for preoperative virtual planning.

Materials and methods

Computed tomography scans were acquired from randomly selected patients, and all images were obtained from routine clinical diagnostics, e.g., tumor staging, or preoperatively before reconstruction. Data was used to calculate stereolithographic models of the mandible for length and angle measurements. Statistical analysis was performed (p < 0.05).

Results

CT scans of 100 patients were analyzed: 39 were female and 61 were male patients, mean age was 59.08a. The mandibular arch angle proved to be constant with 241.07 ± 2.39°. The outside B-segment length was 80.05 ± 5.16 mm; the anterior S-segment length was 27.69 ± 3.16 mm. The angle of the mandibular arch showed differences in means (p = 0.004) between age groups, but effect was proved low. No relevant statistical significances were detected.

Conclusions

The development of a mandible reconstruction template tool would benefit the majority of head and neck patients, which is due to a constant mandibular arch angle and symphysis segment length throughout the general patient population, allowing the mimicking of a harmonic mandibular arch with up to three fibula segments.

Clinical relevance

The developed mandible reconstruction template tool can facilitate the fibula wedge osteotomies necessary for reconstruction of an ideal neomandibula providing a novel approach which is simple and cost-effective.
A short note on the reliability of perceptual timing tasks as commonly used in research on developmental disorders
Authors: Marx Ivo , Rubia Katya , Reis Olaf , Noreika Valdas
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Perceptual timing tasks are frequently applied in research on developmental disorders, but information on their reliability is lacking in pediatric studies. We therefore aimed to assess the reliability of the four paradigms most frequently used, i.e., time discrimination, time estimation, time production, and time reproduction.

Methods

Based on the data from our recent longitudinal study by Marx et al. (Front Hum Neurosci 11:122, 2017), we estimated the internal consistency and test–retest reliability of these tasks in children with ADHD and typically developing children. Individual thresholds were used as dependent measures for the time discrimination task, whereas absolute error and accuracy coefficient scores were used for the other three tasks.

Results

Although less commonly used, the time estimation paradigm was the most robust measure of perceptual timing in terms of internal consistency and test–retest reliability in both ADHD and typically developing children, whereas the most frequently used paradigms showed poor internal consistency (time reproduction) and poor test–retest reliability (time discrimination). Compared to the absolute errors, accuracy coefficients showed almost exclusively higher internal consistency and test–retest reliability.

Conclusions

Our findings call for more frequent use of the time estimation paradigm in studies of perceptual timing in ADHD. The time reproduction paradigm should be re-considered, avoiding pooling of a wide range of time intervals (2–48 s). The accuracy coefficient score is the more reliable and the more intuitive dependent variable and should be preferred in future timing research. To increase the reliability of the timing measurement, each experimental session should be performed twice, if possible.
A survey on clinical pathways of patients with epilepsy and cerebrovascular diseases or brain tumors
Authors: Zaccara Gaetano , Esposito Vincenzo , Maschio Marta , Musolino Rosa , Rudà Roberta , Toni Danilo
Published: January 2020

Objective

Patients with seizures and epilepsies comorbid with cerebrovascular disorders (CVDs) or brain tumors (BTs) are managed by different specialists, including neurologists with expertise in epilepsy (epileptologists), CVDs, and neuro-oncology, as well as neurologists without special expertise (general neurologists), and also emergency room physicians (EPs), intensive care physicians, and neurosurgeons. It has never been studied how these specialists interact for the treatment of seizures or epilepsy in these patients.

Methods

A survey was used to investigate how patients with such comorbidities are managed in hospitals in Italy.

Results

One hundred and twenty-eight specialists from hospitals in all parts of Italy filled in a questionnaire. Epileptologists were in charge of treatment of epilepsy in about 50% of cases while acute seizures were treated mainly by general neurologists (52% of cases). Diagnostic, therapeutic, and assistance pathways (PDTAs) for CVD and BT epilepsies were declared by physicians in about half of the hospitals while in about a quarter, there were only informal agreements and, in the remaining hospitals, there were no agreements between specialists. CVD neurologists, specialists in internal medicine, and EP were most often in charge of treatment of epilepsy comorbid with CVD. General neurologists, neuro-oncologists, and neurosurgeons were included in teams that manage BT epilepsies while epileptologists were included only in a small percentage of hospitals.

Conclusions

Clinical decisions on epilepsy or seizures in patients with such comorbidities are often handled by different specialists. A new team culture and PDTAs are needed to guarantee high standards of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
Anatomical variations and pathological changes in the hearts of free-ranging Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in Finland
Authors: Kareinen Ilona , Lavonen Emilia , Viranta-Kovanen Suvi , Holmala Katja , Laakkonen Juha
Published: January 2020

The Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) despite the wide distribution has fragmented populations with possibly decreased genetic variability. Reports from Central Europe have raised cardiac health as possible risk factor for lynx populations. The knowledge on normal anatomic variations of lynx heart is crucial to assess emerging pathological or hereditary disorders. The aim of this study was to give a detailed description of the cardiac anatomy and circulation of the Eurasian lynx and to report the cardiac health of the lynx in Finland. The cardiac anatomy and pathology were studied post mortem from 63 legally hunted lynx. In general, the cardiac anatomy of Eurasian lynx corresponded with that described for other felids. In the ventricles, varying number of thin ventricular bands was a common feature and their histological appearance was characterized by a fibromuscular pattern. The size of the heart varied between males and females, but the relative size was similar to that described for most domesticated carnivores. No marked pathologic lesions were observed in the lynx hearts. Fibrosis was observed in 56% of the hearts, but it was focal and mild in degree and unlikely to affect cardiac function or to have clinical significance. In conclusion, the cardiac health of the Finnish Eurasian lynx population is good with no signs of heritable cardiac disorders. Furthermore, we were able to give a detailed anatomic description of the lynx heart, which can serve as a reference for further epidemiological investigations on cardiac diseases in lynx populations.
Conflict with Parents in Adolescent Depression: Associations with Parental Interpersonal Problems and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Rognli Erling W. , Waraan Luxsiya , Czajkowski Nikolai O. , Solbakken Ole André , Aalberg Marianne
Published: January 2020

Conflict with parents is common among depressed adolescents, interferes with treatment, and may increase risk of recurrence. Parental depressive symptoms have been shown to predict conflict with adolescent children, but an important role for different kinds of parental interpersonal problems, as described by interpersonal circumplex, is also plausible. This study compared parental interpersonal problems to parental depressive symptoms as predictors of parent-adolescent conflict reported by a depressed adolescent child, using multilevel linear regression, leave-one-out cross-validation and model stacking (N = 100 parents, 57 mothers and 43 fathers, of 60 different adolescents). Cross-validation and model stacking showed that including parental interpersonal problems contributes to accurate predictions. Parents reporting more interpersonal problems related to excessive dominance or submissiveness was associated with increased or decreased conflict, respectively. Parental depressive symptoms were found to be negatively associated with parent-adolescent conflict only in father-adolescent relationships.
Randomness? What Randomness?
Authors: Landsman Klaas
Published: January 2020

This is a review of the issue of randomness in quantum mechanics, with special emphasis on its ambiguity; for example, randomness has different antipodal relationships to determinism, computability, and compressibility. Following a (Wittgensteinian) philosophical discussion of randomness in general, I argue that deterministic interpretations of quantum mechanics (like Bohmian mechanics or ’t Hooft’s Cellular Automaton interpretation) are strictly speaking incompatible with the Born rule. I also stress the role of outliers, i.e. measurement outcomes that arenot1-random. Although these occur with low (or even zero) probability, their very existence implies that the no-signaling principle used in proofs of randomness of outcomes of quantum-mechanical measurements (and of the safety of quantum cryptography) should be reinterpreted statistically, like the second law of thermodynamics. In three appendices I discuss the Born rule and its status in both single and repeated experiments, review the notion of 1-randomness (or algorithmic randomness) that in various guises was investigated by Kolmogorov and others and treat Bell’s (Physics 1:195–200, 1964) Theorem and the Free Will Theorem with their implications for randomness.
Ethnobotanical, historical and histological evaluation of Helleborus L. genetic resources used in veterinary and human ethnomedicine
Authors: Balázs Viktória Lilla , Filep Rita , Ambrus Tünde , Kocsis Marianna , Farkas Ágnes , Stranczinger Szilvia , Papp Nóra
Published: January 2020

The use of hellebore (Helleborus) species for medical purposes has a long-standing tradition. Our work aimed at providing a historical survey of their medicinal application in Europe, and data on current ethnobotanical use ofH. purpurascensWaldst. et Kit. in Transylvania (Romania), compared with earlier records of this region and other European countries. While the chemistry and pharmacology of hellebores have been researched extensively, little is known about their anatomical traits. Thus, we intended to provide a detailed histological analysis ofHelleborus odorusWaldst. et Kit.,H. purpurascens, andH. nigerL., based on transverse sections of aerial parts and root. Our survey revealed thatH. purpurascensis known for immunotherapy, wounds, and as antiemetic drug in ethnoveterinary medicine, but not in human therapy in the study area. Distinctive histological characters included diverse stele structure in the root; sclerenchymatous bundle caps around compound vascular bundles in the stem and the main leaf veins ofH. odorus; and amphistomatic leaves inH. purpurascens. Quantitative vegetative traits also revealed significant differences among species, but they may reflect environmental influences, too. In all three species the sepal was hypostomatic with mesomorphic stomata, while the modified petal comprised a proximal nectar-producing and a distal non-secretory part. Distinctive floral traits included shape of modified petal, presence of papillae and thickness of non-secretory part; as well as ornamentation of tricolpate pollen grains. Our findings suggest that the anatomy of various plant parts varies slightly with each species, including ethnomedicinally knownH. purpurascens, even though the basic structure is the same within the genus.
Comparison of 27-gauge versus 25-gauge vitrectomy results in patients with epiretinal membrane: 6-month follow-up
Authors: Lubiński Wojciech , Gosławski Wojciech , Podborączyńska–Jodko Karolina , Mularczyk Maciej , Post Michał
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To compare the 27G versus 25G vitrectomy in patients with epiretinal membrane (ERM).

Patients and methods

Sixty pseudophakic eyes of 60 consecutive patients treated by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) using 27G (30 eyes) or 25G (30 eyes) were prospectively evaluated including eye’s inflammation, surgery time, ERM + ILM removal time and complications. Additionally, 1, 3, 7, 14, 30, 90 and 180 days after PPV, the following were estimated: intraocular pressure (IOP), sclerotomy wound closure time, distance best corrected visual acuity (DBCVA), foveal macular thickness (FMT) and surgically induced astigmatism (SIA).

Results

The eye’s inflammation resolved within 30 days after surgery in both groups. The surgery and ERM + ILM times were longer in the 27G group (p ≤ 0.02). The most common postoperative complication was hypotony in both groups, more common in 25G group (23.3% vs. 10% of eyes). In 27G group, the mean IOP prior to 180 days postoperatively was higher (p < 0.05) and the sclerotomy wound closure time was shorter (p < 0.001). Mean DBCVA values (7, 14, 30 days after surgery) were significantly better in 27G group (p < 0.001). The mean FMT values were similarly and significantly reduced in both groups 1 day postoperatively (p < 0.05) as compared to preoperative values and then stabilized during follow-up. Mean SIA was lower in 27G group 30, 90 and 180 days after surgery (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The use of 27G PPV in patients with ERM significantly reduced sclerotomy wound closure time and surgically induced astigmatism, better stabilized intraocular pressure and allowed to achieve faster visual acuity improvement, as compared to 25G PPV.
Simultaneous extraction and fractionation of lipids from the microalga Nannochloropsis sp. for the production of EPA-rich polar lipid concentrates
Authors: Jiménez Callejón María J. , Robles Medina Alfonso , González Moreno Pedro A. , Esteban Cerdán Luis , Orta Guillén Sandra , Molina Grima Emilio
Published: January 2020

There is broad scientific evidence on the health benefits of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n3). On the other hand, polar lipids (phospholipids, PLs, and glycolipids, GLs) are excellent emulsifying agents, making them useful both as food products and as excipients for drugs and cosmetics. The bioavailability of n-3 PUFAs in the form of PLs is greater than that of ethyl esters and triacylglycerols. This work has developed an easy method for the simultaneous extraction and fractionation of saponifiable lipids (SLs) from the microalga Nannochloropsis sp., using low-toxicity solvents. Firstly, a lipidic fraction very rich in neutral saponifiable lipids (NSLs) was obtained using hexane. Next, an EPA and polar lipids (PLs and GLs)-enriched fraction was obtained using ethanol (96%). Under optimal conditions, in the first extraction with hexane, an SL extract with 86.3% NSLs was obtained; this extract contained 88.9% of the biomass NSLs. Subsequently, in the second extraction step with ethanol (96%), an SL extract with 87.1% polar lipids and up to 35.2% EPA was obtained. This SL extract contained 87.1% of the polar lipids and 74.7% of the EPA from the Nannochloropsis sp. biomass.
Septins, a cytoskeletal protein family, with emerging role in striated muscle
Authors: Gönczi Mónika , Dienes Beatrix , Dobrosi Nóra , Fodor János , Balogh Norbert , Oláh Tamás , Csernoch László
Published: January 2020

Appropriate organization of cytoskeletal components are required for normal distribution and intracellular localization of different ion channels and proteins involved in calcium homeostasis, signal transduction, and contractile function of striated muscle. Proteins of the contractile system are in direct or indirect connection with the extrasarcomeric cytoskeleton. A number of other molecules which have essential role in regulating stretch-, voltage-, and chemical signal transduction from the surface into the cytoplasm or other intracellular compartments are already well characterized. Sarcomere, the basic contractile unit, is comprised of a precisely organized system of thin (actin), and thick (myosin) filaments. Intermediate filaments connect the sarcomeres and other organelles (mitochondria and nucleus), and are responsible for the cellular integrity. Interacting proteins have a very diverse function in coupling of the intracellular assembly components and regulating the normal physiological function. Despite the more and more intense investigations of a new cytoskeletal protein family, the septins, only limited information is available regarding their expression and role in striated, especially in skeletal muscles. In this review we collected basic and specified knowledge regarding this protein group and emphasize the importance of this emerging field in skeletal muscle biology.
The Yen Exchange Rate and the Hollowing Out of the Japanese Industry
Authors: Belke Ansgar , Volz Ulrich
Published: January 2020

Since the demise of the Bretton Woods system, the yen has seen several episodes of strong appreciation, including in the late 1970s, after the 1985 Plaza Agreement, the early and late 1990s and after 2008. These appreciations have not only been associated with “expensive yen recessions” resulting from negative effects on exports; since the late 1980s, the strong yen has also raised concerns about a de-industrialisation of the Japanese economy. Against this backdrop, the article investigates the effects of changes to the yen exchange rate on the hollowing out of the Japanese industrial sector. To this end, the article uses both aggregate and industry-specific data to gauge the effects of yen fluctuations on the output and exports of different Japanese industries, exploiting new data for industry-specific real effective exchange rates. Our findings support the view that the periods of yen appreciation had more than just transitory effects on Japanese manufacturing. The results also provide indication of hysteresis effects on manufacturing. While there are certainly also other factors that have contributed to a hollowing out of Japanese industry, a strong yen played a role, too.
Extreme Pessimists? Expected Socioeconomic Downward Mobility and the Political Attitudes of Young Adults
Authors: Mitrea Elena Cristina , Mühlböck Monika , Warmuth Julia
Published: January 2020

In recent decades, and especially since the economic crisis, young people have been finding it more difficult to maintain or exceed the living standards of their parents. As a result, they increasingly expect socioeconomic downward mobility. We study the influence of such a pessimistic view on political attitudes, assuming that it is not so much young adults’ current economic status, but rather their anxiety concerning a prospective socioeconomic decline that affects their ideological positions. Drawing on data from a survey among young adults aged 18–35 in eleven European countries, we explore to what extent expected intergenerational downward mobility correlates with right-wing and left-wing self-placement. We find that young adults who expect to do worse than their parents in the future are indeed more likely to locate themselves at the extreme ends of the ideological scale.
Inpatient and outpatient treatment patterns of cancer-associated thrombosis in the United States
Authors: Guo J. D. , Hlavacek P. , Poretta T. , Wygant G. , Lane D. , Gorritz M. , Wang X. , Chen C. C. , Wade R. L. , Pan X. , Rajpura J. , Stwalley B. , Rosenblatt L.
Published: January 2020

Low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are among the recommended treatment options for cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) in the 2019 National Comprehensive Care Network guidelines. Little is known about the current utilization of DOACs in CAT patients, particularly on the inpatient to outpatient therapy transition. This study assessed real-world treatment patterns of CAT in hospital/ED in adult cancer patients (≥ 18 years) diagnosed with CAT during a hospital visit in IQVIA’s Hospital Charge Data Master database between July 1, 2015 and April 30, 2018, and followed their outpatient medical and pharmacy claims to evaluate the initial inpatient/ED and outpatient anticoagulants received within 3 months post-discharge. Results showed that LMWH and unfractionated heparin (UFH) were the most common initial inpatient/ED CAT treatments (35.2% and 27.4%, respectively), followed by DOACs (9.6%); 20.8% of patients received no anticoagulants. Most DOAC patients remained on DOACs from inpatient/ED to outpatient settings (71.4%), while 24.1%, 43.5%, and 0.1% of patients treated with LMWH, warfarin, or UFH respectively, remained on the same therapy after discharge. In addition, DOACs were the most common initial post-discharge outpatient therapy. Outpatient treatment persistence and adherence appeared higher in patients using DOACs or warfarin versus LMWH or UFH. This study shows that DOACs are used as an inpatient/ED treatment option for CAT, and are associated with less post-discharge treatment switching and higher persistence and adherence. Further research generating real-world evidence on the role of DOACs to help inform the complex CAT clinical treatment decisions is warranted.
Minimally Invasive Spine Lumbar Surgery in Obese Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Othman Yahya A. , Alhammoud Abduljabbar , Aldahamsheh Osama , Vaishnav Avani S. , Gang Catherine Himo , Qureshi Sheeraz A.
Published: January 2020

Background

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is the treatment of choice for lumbar spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis. The procedure can be performed through a traditional open approach (O-TLIF) or through minimally invasive techniques (MI-TLIF). Spinal surgeries in obese patients can pose risks, including increased rates of infection and thromboembolic events.

Questions/Purposes

We sought to systematically review the literature on the differences between MI-TLIF and O-TLIF in the obese patient in terms of complication rate, functional outcomes, blood loss, and length of hospital stay.

Methods

We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to systematically search PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for studies published through February 2019 and identified those comparing the outcomes of O-TLIF and MI-TLIF in obese patients. The primary outcome was complication rate (total, infections, dural tears); secondary outcomes were blood loss, length of hospital stay, and functional scores. Two authors independently reviewed the studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and data were pooled using the Mantel-Haenszel random-effects model.

Results

In the sample of 430 patients, the average age was 53.5 years, there were 153 men and 203 women, and the average body mass index was 33.6. Complications were significantly higher in O-TLIF than in MI-TLIF (OR = 0.420 [95% CI: 0.199, 0.887]; I2 = 45.20%). No difference was detected between the two groups for visual analog scale back pain scores and Oswestry Disability Index scores between the pre-operative and last follow-up visits (SMD = –0.034 [95% CI –0.695, 0.627]; I2 = 62.14% and SMD = 0.617 [95% CI: –1.082, 2.316]; I2 = 25%, respectively). Blood loss was significantly lower in MI-TLIF compared to O-TLIF (SMD = –426.736 [95% CI: –490.720, –362.752]; I2 = 70.53%), as was the duration of hospital stay (SMD = –1.079 [95% CI: –1.591, –0.208]; I2 = 84.3%).

Conclusion

MI-TLIF has equivalent efficacy to O-TLIF in obese patients at long-term follow-up. In addition, complication rate, blood loss, and length of hospital stay were lower in MI-TLIF than in O-TLIF.
Investigations into the Structure-Function Relationship of the Naturally-Derived Surfactant Glycyrrhizin: Emulsion Stability
Authors: Ralla Theo , Salminen Hanna , Braun Katharina , Edelmann Matthias , Dawid Corinna , Hofmann Thomas , Weiss Jochen
Published: January 2020

This study describes the emulsion stabilizing properties of the licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabraL.) derived saponin glycyrrhizin and its corresponding aglycone 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid to further increase the understanding between structure and functional behavior. For this, we prepared 10% oil-in-water emulsions and investigated the emulsion stabilizing properties regarding environmental stresses including extreme pH, ionic strength, and temperature. Glycyrrhizin and its aglycone formed nano-sized emulsion droplets at neutral pH that were stable across a broad range of pH-values (pH 5–9), ionic strength (0–200 mM NaCl), and temperature (up to 60 °C). In contrast, emulsions were unstable at low pH (pH <5), as well as high ionic strength (>200 mM NaCl, >5 mM CaCl2) and temperature as well as after a freeze-thaw cycle. Thereby, the observed instability was mainly attributed to the reduction of electrostatic forces caused by the protonation of free carboxylic acid groups at low pH, screening of electrostatic forces at high ionic strengths, and thin interfaces causing coalescence during a freeze-thaw cycle. Overall, both molecules yielded remarkably stable emulsions at very low molecule-to-oil ratios, and therefore our results are relevant for ‘all-natural’ emulsion-based foods and beverages, as well as pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.
Mitral valve flattening and parameter mapping for patient-specific valve diagnosis
Authors: Lichtenberg Nils , Eulzer Pepe , Romano Gabriele , Brčić Andreas , Karck Matthias , Lawonn Kai , De Simone Raffaele , Engelhardt Sandy
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Intensive planning and analysis from echocardiography are a crucial step before reconstructive surgeries are applied to malfunctioning mitral valves. Volume visualizations of echocardiographic data are often used in clinical routine. However, they lack a clear visualization of the crucial factors for decision making.

Methods

We build upon patient-specific mitral valve surface models segmented from echocardiography that represent the valve’s geometry, but suffer from self-occlusions due to complex 3D shape. We transfer these to 2D maps by unfolding their geometry, resulting in a novel 2D representation that maintains anatomical resemblance to the 3D geometry. It can be visualized together with color mappings and presented to physicians to diagnose the pathology in one gaze without the need for further scene interaction. Furthermore, it facilitates the computation of a Pathology Score, which can be used for diagnosis support.

Results

Quality and effectiveness of the proposed methods were evaluated through a user survey conducted with domain experts. We assessed pathology detection accuracy using 3D valve models in comparison with the novel visualizations. Classification accuracy increased by 5.3% across all tested valves and by 10.0% for prolapsed valves. Further, the participants’ understanding of the relation between 3D and 2D views was evaluated. The Pathology Score is found to have potential to support discriminating pathologic valves from normal valves.

Conclusions

In summary, our survey shows that pathology detection can be improved in comparison with simple 3D surface visualizations of the mitral valve. The correspondence between the 2D and 3D representations is comprehensible, and color-coded pathophysiological magnitudes further support the clinical assessment.
Variations in the use of simple and context-sensitive grapheme-phoneme correspondences in English and German developing readers
Authors: Schmalz Xenia , Robidoux Serje , Castles Anne , Marinus Eva
Published: January 2020

Learning to read in most alphabetic orthographies requires not only the acquisition of simple grapheme-phoneme correspondences (GPCs) but also the acquisition of context-sensitive GPCs, where surrounding letters change a grapheme’s pronunciation. We aimed to explore the use and development of simple GPCs (e.g. a ➔ /æ/) and context-sensitive GPCs (e.g. [w]a ➔ /ɔ/, as in “swan” or a[l][d] ➔ /o:/, as in “bald”) in pseudoword reading. Across three experiments, English- and German-speaking children in grades 2–4 read aloud pseudowords, where vowel graphemes had different pronunciations according to different contexts (e.g. “hact”, “wact”, “hald”). First, we found that children use context-sensitive GPCs from grade 2 onwards, even when they are not explicitly taught. Second, we used a mathematical optimisation procedure to assess whether children’s vowel responses can be described by assuming that they rely on a mix of simple and context-sensitive GPCs. While the approach works well for German adults (Schmalz et al. in Journal of Cognitive Psychology, 26, 831–852, 2014), we found poor model fits for both German- and English-speaking children. Additional analyses using an entropy measure and data from a third experiment showed that children’s pseudoword reading responses are variable and likely affected by random noise. We found a decrease in entropy across grade and reading ability across all conditions in both languages. This suggests that GPC knowledge becomes increasingly refined across grades 2–4.
Career success in the University setting: Examining the role of narcissism facets
Authors: Oflu Cemre , Baluku Martin M. , Otto Kathleen
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this research is to examine the association of narcissism facets with subjective and objective career success, as well as the impact of the professional field. Data from 282 employees of a German university – both scientists and administrative staff – who completed an online survey were analysed. Results showed a significant negative relationship between vulnerable narcissism and career success. The associations of the grandiose narcissism subfacets: grandiose exhibitionism and entitlement/exploitativeness, as well as vulnerable narcissism with subjective career success were affected by professional field. However, leadership/authority, the remaining subfacet of grandiose narcissism, was not associated with career success.
The Influence of Adolescent Problem Behaviors on Life Satisfaction: Parent–Child Subsystem Qualities as Mediators
Authors: Zhu Xiaoqin , Shek Daniel T. L.
Published: January 2020

Research studies showed that adolescent problem behaviors were negatively associated with their life satisfaction. However, the negative impact of problem behaviors on life satisfaction has not been sufficiently researched using longitudinal design and the potential mechanisms have not been well examined. The present study attempted to investigate how early adolescents’ externalizing and internalizing behaviors affect their life satisfaction (LS) as well as the mediating effects of parent-child subsystem qualities. Based on a sample of 2669 Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong who were followed up for three years, the present study found that both externalizing and internalizing behavior led to a decrease in LS among adolescents over time. While parental behavioral control and parent-child relational quality mediated the effects of externalizing behavior, parental factors did not mediate the effects of internalizing behavior. More specifically, parents tended to respond to children’s externalizing behavior by reducing parental involvement and warmth, which subsequently resulted in lower LS of adolescents. The findings imply that it is necessary to promote adolescent LS by reducing their problem behaviors. Moreover, parents should develop effective ways to enhance their understanding of children’s emotional and behavioral difficulties.
Variation in ploidy level and genome size of Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. along a latitudinal gradient
Authors: Zhang Jingxue , Wang Miaoli , Guo Zhipeng , Guan Yongzhuo , Guo Yuxia , Yan Xuebing
Published: January 2020

Knowledge of ploidy level and genome size in a germplasm collection is critical before studying genetic diversification of different environmental range in grasses and other plants. We assessed the geographic patterns in ploidy level and genome size of 216 individuals ofCynodon dactylon(L.) Pers. (common bermudagrass) by flow cytometry of accessions sampled from 16 geographic sites along a latitudinal gradient from 22°35′ N to 36°18′ N across China. Flow cytometry histograms combined with mitotic chromosome observations results show that tetraploids were the most frequent ploidy level, constituting 44.91% of all individuals. Nuclear DNA contents were 2.384, 2.419, 2.437, 2.873 and 3.288 pg/2C for the diploid, triploid, tetraploid, pentaploid and hexaploid, respectively. Higher proportions of polyploid individuals were observed within populations at the highest and lowest latitudes. In addition, monoploid genome size ofC. dactylonprogressively increased with increasing ploidy level. Temperature and precipitation had the influence on ploidy level for all the sites. The relationship between ploidy level and geographic distribution forC. dactylonwill facilitate the utilization of this species for biological and genetic research.
Reflections on the term Micoquian in Western and Central Europe. Change in criteria, changed deductions, change in meaning, and its significance for current research
Authors: Frick Jens Axel
Published: January 2020

The primary objective of this contribution is to show the intricate ways of over 100 years of research concerning the term Micoquian and its multiple shifts in meaning. A detailed analysis of the course of the research history has made it possible to identify several tendencies of shifting meaning. This concerned both its position within the chronology, its spatial extent, and decisive assemblage components. The term Micoquian has been used to describe complexes with very different characteristics. Chronologically, both assemblages dating before, during, and after the last interglacial period were referred to as Micoquian. To avoid difficulties in understanding the term, different names for the generic units of the respective assemblage units have been proposed from time to time. Due to the reflections on the research history, it is possible to investigate the question of whether and to what extent the term Micoquian should continue to be used and what significance is attached to it today, and to what extent it appears necessary to pursue other approaches to the classification of the Middle Paleolithic record. In conclusion, a multidisciplinary approach is proposed (including lithic, faunal, radiometric, site catchment, and/or settlement dynamic analysis) to build a multifaceted framework that is able to form clusters of similarities. The formerly defined generic units (called technocomplexes, facies, groups, space–time units, and so on) are seen purely as umbrella terms to structure the Paleolithic record, without claiming to reflect the former Paleolithic reality. With the addition of a tight chronological corset, the definitions of technocomplexes (by using lithic, faunal, and possibly floral data) could allow small, manageable space–time units to be formed and then compared with one another.