bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and computational research of supersonic and hypersonic flow around cube shaped fragments in the air
Authors: Gerasimov Sergei I , Erofeev Vladimir I , Kikeev Vasily A , Kuzmin Vadim A , Zharov Alexei N , Novikov Ilya A
Published: August 2020

A numerical and experimental research of supersonic and hypersonic air flow round cubic fragments, differently oriented relative to the direction of the incoming flow was carried out. The results of visualizing supersonic airflow round cubic fragments are rendered by two methods: a theoretical one, based on a mathematical model by way of numerical solution of the Reynolds - averaged complete Navier-Stokes equations, and an experimental one using shadowgraphy.
Analysis of the powder material and the structure of samples obtained from an aluminum alloy by selective laser melting
Authors: Raznoschikov A S , Kochuyev D A , Voznesenskaya A A , Oparin E S , Khorkov K S
Published: August 2020

By selective laser melting, samples were synthesized from the powder material of the AlSi10Mg alloy. All samples are made of aluminum alloy metal powder. Granulometric analysis data and particle morphology were studied to determine the suitability of the powder used in the selective laser melting. To identify structural defects, the samples were polished from the end and from the side of the building platform. Using a metallographic microscope, the porosity of samples made at a flow rate from 7.28 * 105 to 2.23 * 106 was analyzed. The geometric shape matching of the initial three-dimensional model was analyzed using the holes in the samples as an example. The results of particle size analysis, sphericity of particles of powder material, as well as metallographic analysis of samples can be used to improve the performance of parts obtained from AlSi10Mg aluminum alloy by selective laser melting.
Models of the formation of roughness on the surface of materials and the movement of molten flows under the laser melting processes
Authors: Bukharov D N , Kucherik A O , Arakelian S M
Published: August 2020

We used the nonlinear hydrodynamic model of the motion of molten flows to determine the basic geometric characteristics of the resulting coatings in a laser experiment. To test the capabilities of the developed algorithm, a series of calculations was performed for various values of Reynolds numbers (Re) and certain sizes of the computational domains with several cavities with different configurations. The influence of the channel geometry is clearly noticeable in the case of a deep depression. The direction of motion of different structures (e.g. the vortex) was predicted. Using the convection model, we estimate the temperature field and velocity distribution in the system under consideration for various initial conditions and experimental regimes selected. The profile of the arising island on the surface was modeled by a scaling computational domain with the number of particles N = pS, where the parameter p – determined the viscosity of melted material, and S - the area of the computational domain. The influences of the two key parameters, i.e. probability of adhesion (sc) and viscosity (p), on the obtained surface profile of materials can be estimated by our approach, and result in different deposition images, being finally principal for functional characteristics of the samples under the specific regimes of laser treatment.
Thallene: graphene-like honeycomb lattice of Tl atoms frozen on single-layer NiSi2
Authors: Gruznev D V , Bondarenko L V , Tupchaya A Y , Mihalyuk A N , Eremeev S V , Zotov A V , Saranin A A
Published: August 2020

The post-graphene materials termed also as 2D-Xenes (X = Si, Ge, Sn, Pb, As, Sb or Bi) are atomic-layer sheets comprised of single-element atoms arranged in a honeycomb lattice on a suitable substrate. In the present report, we introduce a new member to the current 2D-Xene family, thallene built of atoms of the Group-III element, thallium (Tl). It is formed when 2/3 monolayer of mobile Tl atoms on a single-layer NiSi2 atop Si(111) substrate crystallizes upon cooling below ∼ 150 K into a

3

×

3

-R30° superstructure with a honeycomb geometry. As compared to the hypothetical free-standing thallene layer, the thallene on the NiSi2/Si(111) substrate experiences a strong tensile strain. It was recognized that though the substrate can virtually tune the thallene into the topological phase, in reality the intrinsic electronic properties of thallene are suppressed due to the hybridization with electrons of the NiSi2/Si(111) substrate.
Molecular dynamics study on axial mechanical properties of calcium silicate hydrate
Authors: Huang Jianzhang , Fan Yue , Ouyang Xiaowei , Han Qiang
Published: August 2020

The axial mechanical properties of calcium silicate hydrate during uniaxial tension or stress have been investigated by molecular dynamic simulations. Based on the classic calcium-silicate-hydrate model, the influence of calcium to silicate ratio and temperature are studied in detail. It demonstrated that calcium silicate hydrate with different Ca/Si ratio have similar stress-strain curves under uniaxial compression, but greatly difference on the uniaxial tension behaviors. The uniaxial tensile properties was affected by temperature that the strain rate in the low-temperature is higher than that in high temperature. The work in this paper reveals the mechanical properties of calcium silicate hydrate at the nanoscale and establishes the foundation explore the failure mechanism of cement or cement-based materials.
Land, energy and water resource management and its impact on GHG emissions, electricity supply and food production- Insights from a Ugandan case study
Authors: Sridharan Vignesh , Shivakumar Abhishek , Niet Taco , Ramos Eunice Pereira , Howells Mark
Published: August 2020

Despite the excitement around the nexus between land, energy and water resource systems, policies enacted to govern and use these resources are still formulated in isolation, without considering the interdependencies. Using a Ugandan case study, we highlight the impact that one policy change in the energy system will have on other resource systems. We focus on deforestation, long term electricity supply planning, crop production, water consumption, land-use change and climate impacting greenhouse gas (GHG) trajectories. In this study, an open-source integrated modelling framework is used to map the ripple effects of a policy change related to reducing biomass consumption. We find that, despite the reduction in deforestation of woodlands and forests, the GHG emissions in the power sector are expected to increase in between 2040–2050, owing to higher fossil fuel usage. This policy change is also likely to increase the cost of electricity generation, which in turn affects the agricultural land types. There is an unforeseen shift from irrigated to rainfed type land due to higher electricity costs. With this integrated model setup for Uganda, we highlight the need for integrated policy planning that takes into consideration the interlinkages between the resource systems and cross propagation effects.
Long-term power degradation testing of piezoelectric vibration energy harvesters for low-frequency applications
Authors: Hirst Jacob , Wang Jie , Nabawy Mostafa R A , Cioncolini Andrea
Published: August 2020

Piezoelectric energy harvesters represent a viable and well-proven solution to convert ambient vibrations into useful electric power within a number of modern life applications. Whilst a large amount of studies has focused on improving power output from these devices, relatively little research has been directed to investigate how these devices degrade over time and the effect this has on long-term power generation. This paper, therefore, aims to experimentally investigate how piezoelectric vibration energy harvesters degrade during long-term operation in realistic harvesting conditions. The harvesters tested are unimorph cantilevers based on three of the most commonly used piezoelectric options: polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Macro Fiber Composite (MFC), and Quick Pack (QP). Testing was carried out under single-frequency excitation (10–40 Hz) of 1g amplitude for three million vibration cycles. Our results show that the natural frequency and the optimum load resistance of the harvesters may vary during prolonged operation. Importantly, a larger cumulative variation in natural frequency and optimum load resistance yields a larger variation in power output, thereby linking the variation in power to the variation of the mechanical and/or electrical properties of the harvesters. Comparing the average power values over the testing period we found that increasing the tip mass does not necessarily improve the average power output, suggesting that a larger tip mass may exacerbate the degradation of the mechanical and/or electrical properties of the harvester. This was particularly evident for the stiffest QP harvesters which showed the highest signs of power degradation; nevertheless, QP harvesters still managed to demonstrate the highest power density values. When cost consideration is taken into account in the assessment, PVDF harvesters managed to demonstrate the highest power density to cost ratio.
As Nature Formed It: Venus Sculptures and the ‘Natural’ Waistline in Dress Reform Discourse
Authors: Franks Hallie M
Published: August 2020

In the second half of the nineteenth century, ancient sculptures of Venus became models for the ‘natural’ waistline. Drawings of the Venus de Medici or de Milo were popular in texts published by American dress reformers, who advocated for the rejection of corsets and tight-lacing. This article takes as its subject these drawings and their simultaneous signification of multiple bodies: a specific sculpture, an idealized form, the ‘natural’ form of any female torso, and the supposedly superior physicality of the ancient Greeks. It argues that the elision of these various bodies is facilitated by the treatment of ancient sculptures as ‘truth-to-nature’ representations — images that are simultaneously ideal and faithful to the form produced by nature. This understanding is encouraged by drawings of the statues, which imply the comparability of sculpture and body. In this way, the sculptures enter dress reform discourse, serving as both a faithful representative of a now-lost ancient body and a kind of visual lexicon by which living women might revive ancient aesthetic and moral perfection. As constructions of aspirational physical ideals, the sculptures and the drawings of Venus are enlisted in a developing and deeply charged visualization of white American womanhood.
What is the mechanism of narrow paced QRS duration during left bundle branch area pacing? A case report
Authors: Hayashi Yusuke , Shimeno Kenji , Nakatsuji Kenichi , Naruko Takahiko
Published: August 2020

Background

Although left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) can capture the His-Purkinje conduction system and create a narrower paced QRS duration, its mechanism has not been investigated. In this case report, ventricular activation patterns were evaluated using three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping during LBBAP and right ventricular septal pacing (RVSP).

Case summary

An 81-year-old woman with sick sinus syndrome received LBBAP, followed 4 months later with atrial fibrillation ablation. We compared ventricular activation patterns during RVSP and LBBAP using a three-dimensional electro-anatomical mapping system. Paced QRS durations during RVSP and LBBAP were 163 ms and 115 ms, respectively. The activation pattern and the total left ventricular (LV) activation time were similar during RVSP and LBBAP (86 and 73 ms, respectively), despite the conduction system capture during LBBAP. The stimulus interval to the latest LV activation point during RVSP was 117 ms, and transseptal conduction time was 31 ms (117 − 86 ms).

Discussion

Although LBBAP could capture the His-Purkinje conduction system, neither ventricular activation patterns nor total activation time changed dramatically. The mechanism of narrower paced QRS duration during LBBAP compared to that during RVSP can be attributable to passing over the slow transseptal conduction.
Hepatic dysfunction induced by intestinal dysbacteriosis mainly manifests as immunologic abnormity in mice
Authors: Luo Xia , Xu Bo , Xiong Tianqin , Su Yulin , liu Chang , Ye Yuanmei , Ou Mingming , Zhou Lian
Published: August 2020

Currently, the potential role of the alterations occurring in the liver immune system and intestinal flora in liver injury remains unknown. Our study aimed to explore the impacts of intestinal microbial barrier damage induced by ceftriaxone on liver immunity. We developed the BALB/c mice model by administering ceftriaxone. The intestinal microbial barrier damage was observed by 16S rRNA, and the pathological changes of intestines and livers were detected by H&E or transmission electron microscope. The activation of immunocytes were tested by Flow Cytometry; the expression of LPS, ALT, AST, IL-6 and TNF-α were detected by Limulus Test or ELISA. Compared to the control, the intestinal microbes significantly decreased in ceftriaxone group. Additionally, the weight of cecum contents increased, the intestinal wall became thinner and the villus in the small intestine and cecum were damaged. The expression of LPS and the ratio of liver lymphocytes were significantly increased. H&E results indicated the structures of liver arose the pathologic changes. Meanwhile, the content of serum ALT, AST, IL-6 and TNF-α increased. Collectively, our study indicates that the damages of gut microbial barrier induced by ceftriaxone prompted activation of immunocytes and release of inflammatory cytokines, which may lead to chronic inflammation in liver.
A detailed picture of a protein–carbohydrate hydrogen-bonding network revealed by NMR and MD simulations
Authors: Nestor Gustav , Ruda Alessandro , Anderson Taigh , Oscarson Stefan , Widmalm Göran , Gronenborn Angela M
Published: August 2020

Cyanovirin-N (CV-N) is a cyanobacterial lectin with antiviral activity towards HIV and several other viruses. Here, we identify mannoside hydroxyl protons that are hydrogen bonded to the protein backbone of the CV-N domain B binding site, using NMR spectroscopy. For the two carbohydrate ligands Manα(1→2)ManαOMe and Manα(1→2) Manα(1→6)ManαOMe five hydroxyl protons are involved in hydrogen-bonding networks. Comparison with previous crystallographic results revealed that four of these hydroxyl protons donate hydrogen bonds to protein backbone carbonyl oxygens in solution and in the crystal. Hydrogen bonds were not detected between the side chains of Glu41 and Arg76 with sugar hydroxyls, as previously proposed for CV-N binding of mannosides. Molecular dynamics simulations of the CV-N/Manα(1→2)Manα(1→6)ManαOMe complex confirmed the NMR-determined hydrogen-bonding network. Detailed characterization of CV-N/mannoside complexes provides a better understanding of lectin-carbohydrate interactions and opens up to the use of CV-N and similar lectins as antiviral agents.
Size-based theory for fisheries advice
Authors: Andersen K H
Published: August 2020

Fisheries science and management is founded upon the Beverton–Holt theory of fish stock demography. The theory uses age as the structuring variable; however, there are several reasons to use body size as the structuring variable. Most of the processes that affect a fish are determined by its body size rather than its age: consumption, mortality, maturation, fecundity, fish gear selectivity, etc., and measurements of body size are easy, accurate, and abundant. Here, I review size-based theory of a fish stock and compare it to classic age-based theory. I show that size- and age-based demography are equivalent representations of demography. However, size-based theory is axiomatic, which leads to a deeper theory with two advantages: predictions need fewer parameters than age-based theory and the theory connects directly to life-history traits. The connection with traits makes size-based theory particularly useful for data-poor application and facilitates evolutionary calculations. I compare age- and size-based theories for fisheries impact and stock assessments and provide a perspective on the challenges and future of single-stock theory.
Banach-Valued Multilinear Singular Integrals with Modulation Invariance
Authors: Di Plinio Francesco , Li Kangwei , Martikainen Henri , Vuorinen Emil
Published: August 2020

We prove that the class of trilinear multiplier forms with singularity over a one-dimensional subspace, including the bilinear Hilbert transform, admits bounded $L^p$-extension to triples of intermediate $\operatorname{UMD}$ spaces. No other assumption, for instance of Rademacher maximal function type, is made on the triple of $\operatorname{UMD}$ spaces. Among the novelties in our analysis is an extension of the phase-space projection technique to the $\textrm{UMD}$-valued setting. This is then employed to obtain appropriate single-tree estimates by appealing to the $\textrm{UMD}$-valued bound for bilinear Calderón–Zygmund operators recently obtained by the same authors.
Key role of the motor protein Kinesin 13B in the activity of homeodomain-leucine zipper I transcription factors
Authors: Miguel Virginia Natali , Ribichich Karina Fabiana , Giacomelli Jorge Ignacio , Chan Raquel Lia
Published: August 2020

The sunflower (Helianthus annuus) homeodomain-leucine zipper I transcription factor HaHB11 conferred differential phenotypic features when it was expressed in Arabidopsis, alfalfa, and maize plants. Such differences were increased biomass, seed yield, and tolerance to flooding. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms leading to such traits and identify HaHB11-interacting proteins, a yeast two-hybrid screening of an Arabidopsis cDNA library was carried out using HaHB11 as bait. The sole protein identified with high confidence as interacting with HaHB11 was Kinesin 13B. The interaction was confirmed by bimolecular fluorescence complementation and by yeast two-hybrid assay. Kinesin 13B also interacted with AtHB7, the Arabidopsis closest ortholog of HaHB11. Histochemical analyses revealed an overlap between the expression patterns of the three genes in hypocotyls, apical meristems, young leaves, vascular tissue, axillary buds, cauline leaves, and cauline leaf nodes at different developmental stages. AtKinesin 13B mutants did not exhibit a differential phenotype when compared with controls; however, both HaHB11 and AtHB7 overexpressor plants lost, partially or totally, their differential phenotypic characteristics when crossed with such mutants. Altogether, the results indicated that Kinesin 13B is essential for the homeodomain-leucine zipper transcription factors I to exert their functions, probably via regulation of the intracellular distribution of these transcription factors by the motor protein.
Using Gaia DR2 to solve differential colour refraction and charge transfer efficiency issues
Authors: Lin F R , Peng Q Y , Zheng Z J
Published: August 2020

The Gaia DR2 catalogue released in 2018 gives information about more than one billion stars, including their extremely precise positions that are not affected by the atmosphere, as well as the magnitudes in the G, RP, and BP passbands. This information provides great potential for the improvement of the ground-based astrometry. Based on Gaia DR2, we present a convenient method to calibrate the differential colour refraction (DCR). This method only requires observations with dozens of stars taken through a selected filter. Applying this method to the reduction of observations captured through different filters by the 1- and 2.4-m telescopes at Yunnan Observatory, the results show that the mean of the residuals between observed and computed positions (O − C) after DCR correction is significantly reduced. For our observations taken through an N (null) filter, the median of the mean (O − C) for well-exposed stars (about 15 G-mag) decreases from 19 to 3 mas, thus achieving better accuracy, i.e. mean (O − C). Another issue correlated is a systematic error caused by the poor charge transfer efficiency (CTE) when a CCD frame is read out. This systematic error is significant for some of the observations captured by the 1-m telescope at Yunnan Observatory. Using a sigmoidal function to fit and correct the mean (O − C), a systematic error up to 30 mas can be eliminated.
Is water ice an efficient facilitator for dust coagulation?
Authors: Kimura Hiroshi , Wada Koji , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Senshu Hiroki , Hirai Takayuki , Yoshida Fumi , Kobayashi Masanori , Hong Peng K , Arai Tomoko , Ishibashi Ko , Yamada Manabu
Published: August 2020

Beyond the snow line of protoplanetary discs and inside the dense core of molecular clouds, the temperature of gas is low enough for water vapour to condense into amorphous ices on the surface of pre-existing refractory dust particles. Recent numerical simulations and laboratory experiments suggest that condensation of the vapour promotes dust coagulation in such a cold region. However, in the numerical simulations, cohesion of refractory materials is often underestimated, while in the laboratory experiments, water vapour collides with surfaces at more frequent intervals compared to the real conditions. Therefore, to re-examine the role of water ice in dust coagulation, we carry out systematic investigation of available data on coagulation of water-ice particles by making full use of appropriate theories in contact mechanics and tribology. We find that the majority of experimental data are reasonably well explained by lubrication theories, owing to the presence of a quasi-liquid layer (QLL). Only exceptions are the results of dynamic collisions between particles at low temperatures, which are, instead, consistent with the JKR theory, because QLLs are too thin to dissipate their kinetic energies. By considering the vacuum conditions in protoplanetary discs and molecular clouds, the formation of amorphous water ice on the surface of refractory particles does not necessarily aid their collisional growth as currently expected. While crystallization of water ice around but outside the snow line eases coagulation of ice-coated particles, sublimation of water ice inside the snow line is deemed to facilitate coagulation of bare refractory particles.
Analytic properties of the electromagnetic field of binary compact stars and electromagnetic precursors to gravitational waves
Authors: Wada Tomoki , Shibata Masaru , Ioka Kunihito
Published: August 2020

We analytically study the properties of the electromagnetic field in the vacuum around close binary compact stars containing at least one neutron star. We show that the orbital motion of the neutron star induces high multipole modes of the electromagnetic field just before the merger. These modes are superimposed to form a spiral arm configuration, and its edge is found to be a likely site for magnetic reconnection. These modes also enhance the total Poynting flux from neutron star binaries by a factor of 2–4. We also indicate that the electric field induced by the orbital motion leads to a magnetosphere around binaries and estimate its plasma density, which has a different parameter dependence than the Goldreich–Julian density. With these properties, we discuss possible electromagnetic counterparts to gravitational wave events, and identify radio precursors, such as fast radio bursts, as the most promising observational targets.
Long non-coding RNA expression profiles in neutrophils revealed potential biomarker for prediction of renal involvement in SLE patients
Authors: Cai Bin , Cai Jingyi , Yin Zhihua , Jiang Xiaoyue , Yao Chao , Ma Jianyang , Xue Zhixin , Miao Ping , Xiao Qingqing , Cheng Yijun , Qin Jialin , Guo Qiang , Shen Nan , Ye Zhizhong , Qu Bo , Ding Huihua
Published: August 2020

Objective

The long non-coding RNA plays an important role in inflammation and autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study is to screen and identify abnormally expressed lncRNAs in peripheral blood neutrophils of SLE patients as novel biomarkers and to explore the relationship between lncRNAs levels and clinical features, disease activity and organ damage.

Methods

RNA-seq technology was used to screen differentially expressed lncRNAs in neutrophils from SLE patients and healthy donors. Based on the results of screening, candidate lncRNA levels in neutrophils of 88 SLE patients, 35 other connective disease controls, and 78 healthy controls were qualified by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

LncRNA expression profiling revealed 360 up-regulated lncRNAs and 224 down-regulated lncRNAs in neutrophils of SLE patients when compared with healthy controls. qPCR assay validated that the expression of Lnc-FOSB-1:1 was significantly decreased in neutrophils of SLE patients when compared with other CTD patients or healthy controls. It correlated negatively with SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) score (r = −0.541, P < 0.001) and IFN scores (r = −0.337, P = 0.001). More importantly, decreased Lnc-FOSB-1:1 expression was associated with lupus nephritis. Lower baseline Lnc-FOSB-1:1 level was associated with higher risk of future renal involvement (within an average of 2.6 years) in patients without renal disease at baseline (P = 0.019).

Conclusion

LncRNA expression profile in neutrophils of SLE patients revealed differentially expressed lncRNAs. Validation study on Lnc-FOSB-1:1 suggest that it is a potential biomarker for prediction of near future renal involvement.
Return to College After a First Episode of Psychosis
Authors: Shinn Ann K , Cawkwell Philip B , Bolton Kirsten , Healy Brian C , Karmacharya Rakesh , Yip Agustin G , Öngür Dost , Pinder-Amaker Stephanie
Published: August 2020

A first episode of psychosis (FEP) can derail a patient’s educational goals, including attainment of a college education, and this can have lasting ramifications for socioeconomic and health outcomes. Despite this, few studies have examined return to college, which is an important index of real-world educational success after a FEP. In this study, we conducted a longitudinal medical record review of patients in a transdiagnostic outpatient FEP program and performed survival analysis, setting return to college as the endpoint, among the subset of patients whose college education was interrupted. We found that 82% (93/114) of college-enrolled FEP individuals experienced disruptions to their education after FEP, but that return to college also occurred in a substantial proportion (49/88, 56%) among those on leave who had follow-up data. In this sample, the median time to college return was 18 months. When separated by baseline diagnostic category, FEP patients with affective psychotic disorders (FEAP, n = 45) showed faster time to college return than those with primary psychotic disorders (FEPP, n = 43) (median 12 vs 24 mo; P = .024, unadjusted). When adjusted for having no more than 1 psychiatric hospitalization at intake and absence of cannabis use in the 6 months prior to intake (which were also significant predictors), differences by diagnostic category were more significant (hazard ratio 2.66, 95% CI 1.43–4.94, P = .002). Participation in education is an important outcome for stakeholders, and students with FEP can be successful in accomplishing this goal.
Rival views of economic competition
Authors: Ergen Timur , Kohl Sebastian
Published: August 2020

Competition is a constitutive feature of capitalist societies. Social conflicts over the introduction, abolition and regulation of market organization are saturated with implicit moral arguments concerning the desirability of competition. Yet, unlike private property, exchange relations and social inequalities, economic competition has rarely been the explicit core of moral debates over capitalism. Drawing on a broad variety of social science literature, this article reconstructs, maps and systematizes ethical arguments about economic competition in capitalist societies. We discuss six contradictory rival views of economic competition and illustrate their influence by providing historical examples of the respective views in action in political-economic debates. This article serves as a mapping groundwork for reviving the systematic ethical debate on economic competition. In addition, our map of rival views lends itself to use as a structuring tool in empirical research on the moral economy and ideational embeddedness of capitalist societies, markets and firms.
Pathogenicity of Isolates of the Rice Blast Pathogen (Pyricularia oryzae) From Indonesia
Authors: Kadeawi Santoso , Nasution Anggiani , Hairmansis Aris , Telebanco-Yanoria Mary Jeanie , Obara Mitsuhiro , Hayashi Nagao , Fukuta Yoshimichi
Published: August 2020

A total of 201 isolates of Pyricularia oryzae (the causal agent of rice blast) were collected from three rice ecosystems (upland, lowland, and swampy) in five regions of Indonesia (West Java, Lampung, South Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Bali). Their pathogenicities were characterized based on the patterns of reaction of 25 differential varieties (DVs) and the susceptible control Lijiangxintuanheigu (LTH), which was susceptible to all blast isolates. A high proportion of isolates (>80.0%) were virulent to DVs for resistance genes Pib, Pit, Pia, Pik-s, and Pi12(t), and a low proportion of isolates (<12.9%) were virulent to DVs for Pik-m, Pi1, Pik-h, Pik, Pik-p, and Pi7(t). Virulence to the other DVs for Pish, Pii, Pi3, Pi5(t), Pi9(t), Piz, Piz-5, Piz-t, Pita-2 (two lines), Pita (two lines), Pi19(t), and Pi20(t) showed intermediate frequencies from 20.0 to 80.0%. These isolates were classified into three cluster groups, Ia, Ib, and II, and the frequencies of cluster groups varied between the three ecosystems and the five regions. The frequencies of cluster groups varied between ecosystems and regions, and races varied according to the ecosystems. A total of 27 standard differential blast isolates (SDBIs) were selected from the 201 isolates collected. The set of 25 DVs and these 27 SDBIs will be used as a new differential system for analysis of the pathogenicity of blast isolates and analysis of resistance genes in rice cultivars, which will contribute to building a durable protection system against blast disease in Indonesia.
2021 Young Investigator Award Winner: Anatomic Gradients in the Microbiology of Spinal Fusion Surgical Site Infection and Resistance to Surgical Antimicrobial Prophylaxis
Authors: Long Dustin R. , Bryson-Cahn Chloe , Pergamit Ronald , Tavolaro Celeste , Saigal Rajiv , Chan Jeannie D. , Lynch John B.
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

Retrospective hospital-registry study.

Objective.

To characterize the microbial epidemiology of surgical site infection (SSI) in spinal fusion surgery and the burden of resistance to standard surgical antibiotic prophylaxis.

Summary of Background Data.

SSI persists as a leading complication of spinal fusion surgery despite the growth of enhanced recovery programs and improvements in other measures of surgical quality. Improved understandings of SSI microbiology and common mechanisms of failure for current prevention strategies are required to inform the development of novel approaches to prevention relevant to modern surgical practice.

Methods.

Spinal fusion cases performed at a single referral center between January 2011 and June 2019 were reviewed and SSI cases meeting National Healthcare Safety Network criteria were identified. Using microbiologic and procedural data from each case, we analyzed the anatomic distribution of pathogens, their differential time to presentation, and correlation with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus screening results. Susceptibility of isolates cultured from each infection were compared with the spectrum of surgical antibiotic prophylaxis administered during the index procedure on a per-case basis. Susceptibility to alternate prophylactic agents was also modeled.

Results.

Among 6727 cases, 351 infections occurred within 90 days. An anatomic gradient in the microbiology of SSI was observed across the length of the back, transitioning from cutaneous (gram-positive) flora in the cervical spine to enteric (gram-negative/anaerobic) flora in the lumbosacral region (correlation coefficient 0.94, P < 0.001). The majority (57.5%) of infections were resistant to the prophylaxis administered during the procedure. Cephalosporin-resistant gram-negative infection was common at lumbosacral levels and undetected methicillin-resistance was common at cervical levels.

Conclusion.

Individualized infection prevention strategies tailored to operative level are needed in spine surgery. Endogenous wound contamination with enteric flora may be a common mechanism of infection in lumbosacral fusion. Novel approaches to prophylaxis and prevention should be prioritized in this population.

Level of Evidence: 3
INYBI: A New Tool for Self-Myofascial Release of the Suboccipital Muscles in Patients With Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain
Authors: Pérez-Martínez Cristina , Gogorza-Arroitaonandia Kristobal , Heredia-Rizo Alberto Marcos , Salas-González Jesús , Oliva-Pascual-Vaca Ángel
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

A randomized, single-blinded (the outcome assessor was unaware of participants’ allocation group) controlled clinical trial.

Objective.

To investigate the effects of myofascial release therapy (MRT) over the suboccipital muscles, compared with self-MRT using a novel device, the INYBI tool, on pain-related outcomes, active cervical mobility, and vertical mouth opening, in adults with chronic non-specific neck pain (NSNP).

Summary of Background Data.

MRT is used to manage chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions, with purported positive effects. The efficacy of self-MRT, compared with MRT, has been scarcely evaluated.

Methods.

Fifty-eight participants (mean age of 34.6 ± 4.7 yrs; range 21–40 yrs; 77.6% females, 22.4% males) with persistent NSNP agreed to participate, and were equally distributed into an INYBI (n = 29) or a control group (n = 29). Both groups underwent a single 5-minutes intervention session. For participants in the control group, MRT of the suboccipital muscles was performed using the suboccipital muscle inhibition technique, while those in the INYBI group underwent a self-MRT intervention using the INYBI device. Primary measurements were taken of pain intensity (visual analogue scale), local pressure pain sensitivity, as assessed with an algometer, and active cervical range-of-movement. Secondary outcomes included pain-free vertical mouth opening. Outcomes were collected at baseline, immediately after intervention and 45 minutes later.

Results.

The analysis of variance (ANOVAs) demonstrated no significant between-groups effect for any variable (all, P > 0.05). In the within-groups comparison, all participants significantly improved pain-related outcomes, and showed similar positive changes for mouth opening. Cervical range-of-movement- mainly increased after intervention for participants in the control group.

Conclusion.

Both, MRT and self-MRT using the INYBI, are equally effective to enhance self-reported pain intensity, and local pressure pain sensitivity in chronic NSNP patients. For cervical mobility, MRT appears to be slighlty superior, compared with the INYBI, to achieve improvements in this population.

Level of Evidence: 2
Spinal Osteoarthritis Is Associated With Stature Loss Independently of Incident Vertebral Fracture in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Nakano Masaki , Nakamura Yukio , Suzuki Takako , Takahashi Jun , Shiraki Masataka
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

Retrospective observational study from the Nagano Cohort Study.

Objective.

Clarify the association between spinal osteoarthritis and loss of stature in postmenopausal women.

Summary of Background Data.

Loss of stature with aging is known to deteriorate health-related quality of life and has been implicated with increased mortality. Although the association of vertebral fracture with height loss has been well documented, the relationship between stature loss and spinal osteoarthritis remains unclear.

Methods.

We retrospectively investigated Japanese postmenopausal women recruited from the Nagano Cohort Study. The participants were outpatients at a primary care institute in Nagano prefecture, Japan. A total of 977 postmenopausal patients (mean age: 65.8 yr) completed a minimum of 1 year of follow-up, with an average observation period of 7.6 years. Quartile analysis on the prevalence of spinal osteoarthritis and occurrence of incident fracture was performed based on the rate of stature change per year (Δ cm/yr). Multiple regression analysis was also conducted to identify the determinants of stature change.

Results.

The lower quartiles of stature change rate (i.e., more rapid stature loss) displayed a significantly higher prevalence of spinal osteoarthritis (P < 0.001) and incident vertebral fracture (P < 0.001). A statistically significant independent negative association for spinal osteoarthritis prevalence with change in stature was revealed by multiple regression analysis after adjusting for confounders including incident vertebral fracture. The partial regression coefficient for spinal osteoarthritis was −0.18 (95% confidence interval −0.33 to −0.03; P = 0.016).

Conclusion.

This study demonstrated an independent association of spinal osteoarthritis with stature loss in postmenopausal women. Adequate understanding of this relationship and appropriate treatment approaches will help improve health-related quality of life in elderly patients.

Level of Evidence: 3
Management of Metastatic Pure Teratoma in Chemotherapy Naive Patients With Testicular Primaries
Authors: Cary Clint , Kern Sean Q. , Jacob Joseph M. , Calaway Adam C. , Foster Richard S. , Einhorn Lawrence H.
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

Patients diagnosed with stage II nonseminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCT) often receive chemotherapy as primary treatment which exposes patients to immediate and long-term risks of chemotherapy. These risks can be avoided by proceeding to primary retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) when a high suspicion of pure metastatic teratoma in the retroperitoneum (RP) exists. We propose that all stage II NSGCT patients with pure testicular teratoma, normal serum tumor markers, and with RP cystic metastases on imaging can safely be treated with primary RPLND.

Methods:

We identified 14 patients found to have 100% teratoma in orchiectomy specimens, negative serum tumor markers, and with metastatic cystic RP disease. Disease recurrence was also evaluated to establish efficacy of treatment.

Results:

All 14 patients were chemotherapy naive and found to have pure metastatic teratoma. All patients were IGCCCG good risk with stage IIA (21.4%), IIB (35.7%), and IIC (42.9%) disease. Median RP mass size was 4.9 cm (1.8 to 24 cm). All patients underwent a RPLND finding 100% teratoma in the RP. Median follow-up was 6.9 years. One patient (7.1%) who received a right modified template RPLND relapsed in the left RP 10.2 years later who underwent treatment and has been disease free for over 5.5 years.

Conclusions:

Primary surgical treatment in this cohort of pure metastatic teratoma resulted in good clinical outcomes and the ability to avoid unnecessary induction chemotherapy. It is important that contrary to previous suppositions, patients with pure teratoma of the testis can independently metastasize with teratoma only, without metastatic carcinoma.
Meta-analysis of Postoperative Mortality and Morbidity After Total Abdominal Colectomy Versus Loop Ileostomy With Colonic Lavage for Fulminant Clostridium Difficile Colitis
Authors: Felsenreich Daniel Moritz , Gachabayov Mahir , Rojas Aram , Latifi Rifat , Bergamaschi Roberto
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND:

Emergency surgery is often required for fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis. Total abdominal colectomy has been the treatment of choice despite high morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate postoperative mortality and morbidity after total abdominal colectomy and loop ileostomy with colonic lavage in patients with fulminant C difficile colitis.

DATA SOURCES:

Studies comparing total abdominal colectomy to loop ileostomy for fulminant C difficile colitis were identified by a systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and CINAHL.

STUDY SELECTION:

Relevant records were detected and screened using a cascade system (title, abstract, and/or full text article).

INTERVENTION(S):

Total abdominal colectomy (rectal-sparing resection of the entire colon with end ileostomy) was compared to loop ileostomy (exteriorization of an ileal loop not far from the ileocecal junction for colonic lavage).

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES:

This meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guidelines. Primary outcome was postoperative mortality, defined as death occurring within 30 days after the intervention. Secondary end points were the rates of ostomy reversal, deep venous thrombosis/embolism, surgical site infection, urinary tract infection, respiratory complications, reoperations, and adverse events. Mantel–Haenszel method with random-effects model was used for meta-analysis.

RESULTS:

Five observational studies (3 cohort and 2 database analysis studies) totaling 3683 patients were included. Postoperative mortality rate was 31.3% after total abdominal colectomy and 26.2% after loop ileostomy (OR = 1.36 (95% CI, 0.83–2.24); p = 0.22; number needed to treat/harm = 20; I
2 = 55%). Ostomy reversal rate was both statistically and clinically significantly higher after loop ileostomy as compared with total abdominal colectomy (80% vs 25%; OR = 0.08 (95% CI, 0.02–0.30); p = 0.002; number needed to treat/harm = 2) with low heterogeneity (I
2 = 0%).

LIMITATIONS:

A limitation is the observational nature of the included studies introducing an overall high risk of selection bias.

CONCLUSIONS:

This meta-analysis suggests that loop ileostomy with colonic lavage for fulminant C difficile colitis may be associated with similar survival and decreased surgical site infection rates as compared with total abdominal colectomy. Although loop ileostomy with colonic lavage was associated with higher ostomy reversal rates, this finding was based on the data from only 2 studies.
Light and Laser Treatments for Keratosis Pilaris: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kechichian Elio , Jabbour Samer , El Hachem Lena , Tomb Roland , Helou Josiane
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common hereditary keratinization disorder. Keratosis pilaris rubra and KP atrophicans faciei are less frequent variants of the disease. Topical treatments often yield ineffective and temporary results.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this article is to review and assess all the studies that used light and laser devices to treat KP and its variants.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

On January 15, 2017, an online search of the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases was performed using the following combination of keywords: “keratosis pilaris” and “treatment.”

RESULTS

Seventeen studies related to light and laser treatments were retained for analysis. The total number of treated patients was 175. Of which, 22 patients had KP atrophicans faciei, 17 patients had KP rubra, and 136 patients had KP.

CONCLUSION

Light and laser devices have been emerging as promising therapeutic options for a disfiguring disease that still lacks, until today, an effective long-term treatment.
To Tie or Not to Tie-Over Full-Thickness Skin Grafts in Dermatologic Surgery: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Marsidi Nick , Boteva Kristin , Vermeulen Sofieke A.M. , van Kester Marloes S. , Genders Roel E.
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Tie-over dressings are frequently used for skin grafts. Although a dressing is necessary for split-thickness skin grafts, their use in full-thickness skin grafts (FTSGs) is questionable.

OBJECTIVE

This review was conducted to investigate the influence of different tie overs and dressings on graft take for FTSGs in cutaneous surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An electronic database search was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane library. The following search terms and comparable were used: skin transplantation, tie-over, fixation, sutures, and take.

RESULTS

Fifteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Eight studies describe no use of a tie-over dressing for FTSGs. Dressing types included antibacterial dressings, foam or sponges, and bolsters. The lowest graft take was 80% (with a tie-over dressing). The highest graft take was 100% (with and without a tie-over dressing).

CONCLUSION

The results show that, regardless of the technique used, the overall graft success rate is high. Although a definite recommendation could not be made, it seems that a graft without a tie-over dressing can suffice in certain circumstances.
Modified Buried Vertical Mattress Suture Versus Buried Intradermal Suture: A Prospective Split-Scar Study
Authors: Liu Zonghui , Tang Zhishui , Hao Xiaoyan , Liu Xiangyu , He Lin , Yu Xueyuan , Wang Rui , He Youcheng , Guo Yuan , Shu Maoguo
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The modified buried vertical mattress suture (MBVMS) is believed to provide excellent outcomes by relieving the tension on wound edges. However, clinical data on the topic remain sparse and inadequate.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the cosmetic results of the MBVMS and the buried intradermal suture (BIS) in chest wounds using a split-scar model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty patients participated in the study. One randomly selected half of each chest wound was closed with the MBVMS; the other half was closed with the BIS. Immediately, postoperatively, the maximum degree of wound eversion was obtained. After 3 months, the wound complication rates were recorded, and the aesthetic appearance of each scar was evaluated by the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), the visual analog scale (VAS), and scar width.

RESULTS

The MBVMS yielded a greater mean postoperative eversion height and width (p < .05); lower POSAS, VSS, and VAS scores (p < .05); and a narrower scar width (p < .05) than did the BIS.

CONCLUSION

Compared with the BIS, the MBVMS provided significantly increased wound eversion immediately, postoperatively, and improved aesthetic outcomes at the end of the 3-month follow-up period.
Nail Unit Melanoma In Situ Treated With Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Authors: Matsumoto Andrew , Strickland Nicole , Nijhawan Rajiv I. , Srivastava Divya
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is under used in the treatment of nail unit melanoma in situ (MIS), with limited studies in the literature.

OBJECTIVE

Report clinical outcomes for nail unit MIS using MMS with melanoma antigen recognized by T cells-1 (MART-1) immunostaining.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study at a single academic institution of patients with a diagnosis of nail unit MIS treated with MMS with MART-1 immunostaining from January 1, 2006, to December 30, 2016. The primary outcome measure was the recurrence rate after MMS.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were identified. With an average follow-up of 6.0 years (71.6 months; range = 5–139 months), 1 patient developed recurrence 6.6 years after undergoing initial MMS, requiring amputation with no further treatment or recurrence thereafter.

CONCLUSION

Mohs micrographic surgery for nail unit MIS offers a high cure rate similar to other surgical modalities and can reduce the need for digital amputation. The evolution of the Mohs technique over time, namely, using MART-1 immunostaining, has led to improvement in treatment outcomes. Performing complete nail unit excision with nail plate remaining intact attached to the nail bed may also contribute to improved outcomes. Further refinement in technique and more data are necessary to continue to advance this treatment.