bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Latino Ethnicity on the Imposition of the Death Penalty
Authors: Johnson Sheri Lynn
Published: October 2020

With respect to African Americans, the history of racial discrimination in the imposition of the death penalty is well-known, and the persistence of racial disparities in the modern era of capital punishment is well-documented. In contrast, the influence of Latino ethnicity on the imposition of the death penalty has been studied very little. A review of the limited literature reveals evidence of discrimination against Latinos. Archival studies generally find ethnicity-of-victim discrimination, and some of those studies find ethnicity-of-defendant discrimination disadvantaging Latino defendants; these findings parallel the findings of the much more robust literature investigating bias against African American defendants and victims. The controlled experimental studies generally show both ethnicity-of-defendant and ethnicity-of-victim discrimination disadvantaging Latinos. Related literature investigating stereotypes, animosity, and discrimination in other criminal justice decisions further suggests the likelihood of ethnicity discrimination in the imposition of capital punishment, as well as the need for further research.
Fast Ion Conduction of Sintered Glass-Ceramic Lithium Ion Conductors Investigated by Impedance Spectroscopy and Coaxial Reflection Technique
Authors: Samsinger R. F. , Letz M. , Schuhmacher J. , Schneider M. , Roters A. , Kienemund D. , Maune H. , Kwade A.
Published: October 2020

As the ionic conductivity of solid-state lithium ion conductors rises, knowledge of the detailed conductivity mechanisms is harder to obtain due to the limited frequency resolution of the traditional impedance spectrometers. Moreover, the data is easily affected by the local microstructure (i.e. pores, grain-boundaries) and the preparation conditions. The aim of this work is to demonstrate the feasibility of the coaxial reflection technique as a reliable tool to study fast ionic conductors (i.e. σ > 10−4 S cm−1). Especially the relative permittivity can be determined more accurately at room temperature. For the first time the electrical performance of LATP and LLZO manufactured via a scalable top-down glass-ceramic route is evaluated. The density turns out to be a key parameter influencing both relative permittivity and resulting conductivities. For a 100% dense LATP sample the coaxial reflection technique reveals a high grain-core conductivity of 6 × 10−3 S cm−1 similar to the conductivity of ideal single crystals.
IFN-γ Correlations with Pain Assessment, Radiological Findings, and Clinical Intercourse in Patient after Lumbar Microdiscectomy: Preliminary Study
Authors: Kamieniak Piotr , Bielewicz Joanna M. , Grochowski Cezary , Litak Jakub , Bojarska-Junak Agnieszka , Janczarek Marzena , Daniluk Beata , Trojanowski Tomasz
Published: October 2020

Objectives. We investigated the influence of pain decrease after lumbar microdiscectomy on the interferon gamma (IFN-γ) serum level in patients with lumbar disc herniations. The study challenges the mechanism of sciatica pain and the role of IFN-γ in radicular pain development. Material and Methods. We performed clinical and immunoenzymatic assessment in a group of 27 patients with lumbar radicular pain due to disc herniations before and 3 months after surgery. Clinical status was assessed with the use of the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), the Pain Rating Index and Pain Intensity Index of McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The plasma concentrations of IFN-γ were ascertained by an immunoenzymatic method. Results. We observe significant correlations between the results of the pain in the back region assessment NRS back scale after the surgery with the level of IFN-γ before the procedure (

r

s

=
0.528

;

p
=
0.008

) and after the procedure (

r

s

=
0.455

;

p
=
0.025

). These are moderate and positive correlations—the decrease in pain is correlated with the lower IFN-γ level. Additionally, there are significant correlations between the results of the PRI scale and the IFN-γ level. The PRI score before surgery correlates positively with IFN-γ after surgery (

r

s

=
0.462

;

p
=
0.023

), and the PRI score after surgery correlates positively with IFN before surgery (

r

s

=
0.529

;

p
=
0.005

) and after surgery (

r

s

=
0.549

;

p
=
0.003

). All correlations are moderate in severity—severe pain before surgery correlates with a higher level of IFN-γ after surgery and also higher IFN-γ before surgery. There were significant differences in the IFN-γ level before (

Z
=
−
2.733

;

p
=
0.006

) and after (

Z
=
−
2.391

;

p
=
0.017

) surgery in the groups of patients with and without nerve compression. In the group of patients with nerve compression, the level of IFN-γ before and after surgery was lower. Conclusions. Less pain ratio after operation correlates with the level of IFN-γ. In the group of patients without significant nerve compression confirmed by MRI scans, the level of IFN-γ before and after surgery was higher than that in the group with nerve root compression.
A New Supply Chain System and Its Impulsive Synchronization
Authors: Peng Yang , Wu Jiang , Wen Shiping , Feng Yuming , Tu Zhengwen , Zou Limin
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this paper is to discuss modelling and synchronization of nonlinear supply chain system. Firstly, we present a new supply chain system which is sensitive to various uncertainties along with exogenous disturbances. Synchronization is an important method to reduce the negative impact of uncertainties and disturbances on the supply chain. Since impulsive control can reduce control cost and the amount of transmitted information drastically, we discuss impulsive synchronization behavior of two supply chain systems with the same structure. Finally, simulation experiments are given to show the effectiveness of our analytical results.
Decoding Aging: Understanding the Complex Relationship among Aging, Free Radicals, and GSH
Authors: López-Navarro María E. , Jarquín-Martínez Mariana , Sánchez-Labastida Luis A. , Ramírez-Rosales Daniel , Godínez-Victoria Marycarmen , Quintas-Granados Laura Itzel , Trujillo-Ferrara José Guadalupe
Published: October 2020

N-aryl maleimides can undergo a 1,4-Michael-type addition reaction with reduced glutathione (GSH), leading to a decreased concentration of GSH and an increased concentration of free radicals (FRs) in cells. GSH is a critical scavenging molecule responsible for protecting cells from oxidation and for maintaining redox homeostasis. N-aryl maleimides disturb redox homeostasis in cells because they scavenge thiol-containing molecules, especially GSH. This study aimed at measuring the concentrations of GSH and FRs by electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR), in the brain and liver tissue of male Wistar rats (ex vivo) at different ages and after treatment with 3,5-dimaleimylbenzoic acid (3,5-DMB). Our results showed a relationship between age and the concentrations of GSH and FRs in cells. In young rats, the concentration of GSH was higher than in old rats, while the concentration of FRs was higher in adult rats than in young rats, suggesting an inverse relationship between GSH and FRs. On the other hand, the reaction of 3,5-DMB (an electrophilic maleimide) with cellular GSH increased the FR content. The results of this study contribute to the awareness that the process of aging implies not only a loss of tissue function but also essential changes in the molecular contents of cells, especially the concentrations of FRs and GSH.
The Cross-Entropy Method for the Winner Determination Problem in Combinatorial Auctions
Authors: Lin Hanmi , Chen Yongqiang , Liu Changping , Xie Jie , Ni Baixiu
Published: October 2020

The combinatorial auction is one of the important methods used for multi-item auctions, and the solution to the winner determination problem (WDP) is the key factor in the widespread application of combinatorial auctions. This paper explores the use of the cross-entropy method to solve the WDP, which is an NP problem. The performance of the proposed approach is evaluated on the basis of two well-known benchmark test cases. The experimental results show that, compared with the genetic algorithm and the particle swarm optimization algorithm, the cross-entropy（CE）method has the advantages of a higher success rate and a shorter time for solving the WDP. Therefore, the CE method provides a high-quality solution for the effective solution of the problem of determining winning bids in combined auctions.
An In Vitro Verification of the Effects of Paeoniflorin on Lipopolysaccharide‐Exposed Microglia
Authors: Chen Qiliang , Liu Yaojun , Zhang Yuanyuan , Jiang Xinyu , Zhang Yuqin , Asakawa Tetsuya
Published: October 2020

Background. The neuroprotective effects of Paeoniflorin (PF) are well known. Most of the evidence was verified in vivo. We attempted to perform an in vitro verification of the effects of PF in microglia. Methods. A lipopolysaccharide‐ (LPS‐) exposed microglia model was employed. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the levels of cytokines in the culture supernatants. A real‐time polymerase chain reaction was performed to measure the mRNA expression of cytokines and M1‐ and M2‐like genes. A western blot analysis was used to examine the expression of proteins associated with the nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) signaling pathway. Results. We found that the administration of PF reversed the inflammatory response induced by LPS. It downregulated proinflammatory cytokines and upregulated anti‐inflammatory cytokines. This, in turn, alleviated the oxidative injuries, downregulated the expression of M1‐like genes, and upregulated the expression of M2‐like genes. PF can also reverse the changes in proteins associated with the NF‐κB signaling pathway induced by LPS. Conclusions. We provided evidence obtained in vitro concerning the neuroprotective effects of PF via suppressing activation of microglia, which might be associated with the NF‐κB signaling pathway. These findings contribute to obtaining a deeper understanding of PF, a potential new treatment for brain injuries.
Multimodel Anomaly Identification and Control in Wet Limestone-Gypsum Flue Gas Desulphurization System
Authors: Li Xiaoli , Liu Quanbo , Wang Kang , Wang Fuqiang , Cui Guimei , Li Yang
Published: October 2020

Sulphur dioxide, as one of the most common air pollutant gases, brings considerable numbers of hazards on human health and environment. For the purpose of reducing the detrimental effect it brings, it is of urgent necessity to control emissions of flue gas in power plants, since a substantial proportion of sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere stems from flue gas generated in the whole process of electricity generation. However, the complexity and nondeterminism of the environment increase the occurrences of anomalies in practical flue gas desulphurization system. Anomalies in industrial desulphurization system would induce severe consequences and pose challenges for high-performance control with classical control strategies. In this article, based on process data sampled from 1000 MW unit flue gas desulphurization system in a coal-fired power plant, a multimodel control strategy with multilayer parallel dynamic neural network (MPDNN) is utilized to address the control problem in the context of different anomalies. In addition, simulation results indicate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed control method by comparing with different cases.
Protective Effects of Adiponectin against Cobalt Chloride‐Induced Apoptosis of Smooth Muscle Cells via cAMP/PKA Pathway
Authors: Xiao Jingjie , Zhang Yingying , Zhang Wei , Zhang Liang , Li Li , Si Junqiang , Li Xinzhi , Ma Ketao
Published: October 2020

Adiponectin (APN) is an adipokine secreted from adipose tissue and exhibits biological functions such as microcirculation‐regulating, hearing‐protective, and antiapoptotic. However, the effect of APN on the apoptosis of spiral arterial smooth muscle cells (SMCs) under hypoxic conditions in vitro is not clear. We used cobalt chloride (CoCl2) to simulate chemical hypoxia in vitro, and the SMCs were pretreated with APN and then stimulated with CoCl2. The viability of cells and apoptosis were assessed by CCK‐8 and flow cytometry, respectively. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, cAMP level, and the activity of PKA were detected by ELISA. Protein expression and localization were studied by Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis. In the present study, we found that APN exhibits antiapoptosis effects. CoCl2 exhibited decreased cell viability, increased apoptosis and MDA levels, and decreased SOD activity in a concentration‐dependent manner, compared with the control group. Moreover, CoCl2 upregulated the expression levels of Bax and cleaved caspase‐3 and then downregulated Bcl‐2 levels in a time‐dependent manner. Compared with the CoCl2 group, the group pretreated with APN had increased cell viability, SOD activity, PKA activity, cAMP level, and PKA expression, but decreased MDA levels and apoptosis. Lastly, the protective effect of APN was blocked by cAMP inhibitor SQ22536 and PKA inhibitor H 89. These results showed that APN protected SMCs against CoCl2‐induced hypoxic injury via the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway.
An Amalgamated Approach to Bilevel Feature Selection Techniques Utilizing Soft Computing Methods for Classifying Colon Cancer
Authors: Prabhakar Sunil Kumar , Rajaguru Harikumar , Kim Sun-Hee
Published: October 2020

One of the deadliest diseases which affects the large intestine is colon cancer. Older adults are typically affected by colon cancer though it can happen at any age. It generally starts as small benign growth of cells that forms on the inside of the colon, and later, it develops into cancer. Due to the propagation of somatic alterations that affects the gene expression, colon cancer is caused. A standardized format for assessing the expression levels of thousands of genes is provided by the DNA microarray technology. The tumors of various anatomical regions can be distinguished by the patterns of gene expression in microarray technology. As the microarray data is too huge to process due to the curse of dimensionality problem, an amalgamated approach of utilizing bilevel feature selection techniques is proposed in this paper. In the first level, the genes or the features are dimensionally reduced with the help of Multivariate Minimum Redundancy–Maximum Relevance (MRMR) technique. Then, in the second level, six optimization techniques are utilized in this work for selecting the best genes or features before proceeding to classification process. The optimization techniques considered in this work are Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO), Teaching Learning‐Based Optimization (TLBO), League Championship Optimization (LCO), Beetle Antennae Search Optimization (BASO), Crow Search Optimization (CSO), and Fruit Fly Optimization (FFO). Finally, it is classified with five suitable classifiers, and the best results show when IWO is utilized with MRMR, and then classified with Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (QDA), a classification accuracy of 99.16% is obtained.
Leader-Following Bounded Consensus and Multiconsensus of Multiagent Systems
Authors: Long Chao , Yang Chunxi , Han Guangsong , Huang Yingbo , Han Shichang
Published: October 2020

This paper investigates the problem of leader-following consensus and multiconsensus of multiagent systems. A leader-following and bounded consensus protocol via impulsive control for multiagent systems is proposed by using sampled position and velocity data. Consensus and multiconsensus commutative evolution stimulated by varying intelligence degrees of each agent can be achieved to avoid obstacles. Especially, the multiconsensus leader-following can be obtained without grouping the multiagent networks in advance. The necessary and sufficient condition is given to the leader-following bounded consensus tracking of the system by using the Hurwitz criterion and properties of the Laplacian matrix. A simulation is provided to verify the availability of the proposed impulsive control protocol. Furthermore, the result can be applied in obstacle avoidance and round up of target by regulating the intelligence degrees.
Microstructural Topology Optimization of Constrained Layer Damping on Plates for Maximum Modal Loss Factor of Macrostructures
Authors: Fang Zhanpeng , Yao Lei , Tian Shuxia , Hou Junjian
Published: October 2020

This paper presents microstructural topology optimization of viscoelastic materials for the plates with constrained layer damping (CLD) treatments. The design objective is to maximize modal loss factor of macrostructures, which is obtained by using the Modal Strain Energy (MSE) method. The microstructure of the viscoelastic damping layer is composed of 3D periodic unit cells. The effective elastic properties of the unit cell are obtained through the strain energy-based method. The density-based topology optimization is adopted to find optimal microstructures of viscoelastic materials. The design sensitivities of modal loss factor with respect to the design variables are analyzed and the design variables are updated by Method of Moving Asymptotes (MMA). Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the validity of the proposed optimization method. The effectiveness of the optimal design method is illustrated by comparing a solid and an optimized cellular viscoelastic material as applied to the plates with CLD treatments.
Key Factors Affecting the Deformation and Failure of Surrounding Rock Masses in Large‐Scale Underground Powerhouses
Authors: Wang Meng , Zhou Jia-wen , Shi An-chi , Han Jin-qi , Li Hai-bo
Published: October 2020

The stability of the surrounding rock masses of underground powerhouses is always emphasized during the construction period. With the general trends toward large‐scale, complex geological conditions and the rapid construction progress of underground powerhouses, deformation and failure issues of the surrounding rock mass can emerge, putting the safety of construction and operation in jeopardy and causing enormous economic loss. To solve these problems, an understanding of the origins and key affecting factors is required. Based on domestic large‐scale underground powerhouse cases in the past two decades, key factors affecting the deformation and failure of the surrounding rock mass are summarized in this paper. Among these factors, the two most fundamental factors are the rock mass properties and in situ stress, which impart tremendous impacts on surrounding rock mass stability in a number of cases. Excavation is a prerequisite of surrounding rock mass failure and support that is classified as part of the construction process and plays a pivotal role in preventing and arresting deformation and failure. Additionally, the layout and structure of the powerhouse are consequential. The interrelation and interaction of these factors are discussed at the end of this paper. The results can hopefully advance the understanding of the deformation and failure of surrounding rock masses and provide a reference for design and construction with respect to hydroelectric underground powerhouses.
Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells Alleviate Cold Allodynia in a Rat Spinal Nerve Ligation Model of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Jwa Hyeon Seok , Kim Yong Ho , Lee Jaehee , Back Seung-Keun , Park Chul-Kyu
Published: October 2020

Neuropathic pain caused by lesions or nervous system dysfunction is a neuroimmune disease with limited therapeutic options. Adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) are multipotent mesenchymal stem cells with potent immunosuppressive properties, and their use as novel cell-based therapeutics have been proposed in many immune diseases. However, the analgesic effect and efficacy of ASCs to treat neuropathic pain remain unclear. This study, thus, investigated whether ASCs or ASC-derived culture medium can relieve neuropathic pain behaviors (i.e., mechanical and cold allodynia) in a rat model with L5 spinal nerve ligation. Intrathecal injection of ASCs significantly reduced cold allodynia, but not mechanical allodynia. Importantly, cold allodynia was completely reversed in rats with repeated injections of ASCs. In contrast, intrathecal injection of ASC-derived culture medium or retro-orbital injection of ASCs had no effect on neuropathic pain behaviors. These results suggest a novel and alternative therapeutic application of ASCs to target specific neuropathic pain behaviors.
A Novel Attack-and-Defense Signaling Game for Optimal Deceptive Defense Strategy Choice
Authors: Hu Yongjin , Zhang Han , Guo Yuanbo , Li Tao , Ma Jun
Published: October 2020

Increasingly, more administrators (defenders) are using defense strategies with deception such as honeypots to improve the IoT network security in response to attacks. Using game theory, the signaling game is leveraged to describe the confrontation between attacks and defenses. However, the traditional approach focuses only on the defender; the analysis from the attacker side is ignored. Moreover, insufficient analysis has been conducted on the optimal defense strategy with deception when the model is established with the signaling game. In our work, the signaling game model is extended to a novel two-way signaling game model to describe the game from the perspectives of both the defender and the attacker. First, the improved model is formally defined, and an algorithm is proposed for identifying the refined Bayesian equilibrium. Then, according to the calculated benefits, optimal strategies choice for both the attacker and the defender in the game are analyzed. Last, a simulation is conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed model and to demonstrate that the defense strategy with deception is optimal for the defender.
The Peripherin Gene Regulates the Migration of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Wuzhishan Mini Pigs
Authors: Feng Zheng , Li Wentong , Xia Ying , Yu Hui , Li Hua , Li Kui , Mu Yulian
Published: October 2020

Increasing the migratory capacity of the implanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a major challenge in developing successful cell transplantation therapies. Nevertheless, the regulatory factors involved in the migration of BMMSCs remain largely unknown. In this study, we studied the role of the peripherin (PRPH) gene in regulating the ability of Wuzhishan mini pig (WZSP) BMMSCs to migrate in vitro. Four different shRNA vectors directed against PRPH were designed and transfected into BMMSCs. The vector with the best interference effect was chosen to be used in the following experiments. The expression level of PRPH in BMMSCs was determined by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot analysis. The migration capacity of the BMMSCs was estimated using a scratch assay, a transwell in vitro migration model assay, and filamentous actin staining. The results showed that shRNA-mediated knockdown of the expression of the PRPH gene in BMMSCs reduced the ability of these cells to migrate. Overall, these results illustrate that the PRPH gene regulates the migration of BMMSCs in the WZSP.
Study on Temperature Field Massive Concrete in Early Age Based on Temperature Influence Factor
Authors: Zhang Min , Yao Xianhua , Guan Junfeng , Li Lielie
Published: October 2020

In order to solve the problem of insufficient accuracy of early temperature field caused by the change of hydration rate under different temperatures, the theoretical formula of finite element calculation based on temperature influence factor is put forward and then the theory is tested. On this basis of this theory, the early temperature field of a RCC dam is numerically simulated and the variation law of concrete hydration rate under different temperatures is studied. The numerical simulation results are compared with the results without considering the temperature effect and the measured temperature data. The results show that the theoretical results are in agreement with the measured temperature data, and the accuracy and applicability of the theoretical formula are proved.
Study on Deflection of Surrounding Rock Force Chain and Disaster Mechanism of Instability in Deep Stope
Authors: Xie Guang-Xiang , Yuan Anying , Wang Lei
Published: October 2020

The mechanism of force chain deflection and instability-caused disaster in the deep surrounding rock of large-scale stopes was examined in this study using theoretical analyses, laboratory experiments, PFC3D numerical simulations, and other comprehensive research methods based on a discrete element theory that included force chain research as the main line. The results indicated that the overburden strata of the stope presented an arched force chain in both the strike and the inclined direction of the working face. In addition, a force chain shell composed of strong chains similar to “ellipsoid” in shape had been formed in the overburden strata space of the entire stope. The main mechanical characteristics of the force chain shell were as follows: the strength levels of the force chains within the shell were the largest; the strength levels of the force chains inside and outside the shell were relatively low and had evolved with the advancement of the working face; the directions of the force chains in different areas of the surrounding rock masses of the stope were deflected, forming an anisotropic characteristic with a certain deflection angle which was distributed in the vertical direction at the shell base; the force chains at the shell shoulder were angled in the horizontal direction, and the force chain at the shell top had an obvious horizontal direction; finally, the strong chain clusters of the surrounding rock masses of the stope formed a force chain shell in the stope space, and the stress shell was the macroscopic embodiment of the force transference in the force chain shell formed by the force chain clusters, which revealed not only the mechanical mechanism of the force chain shell formed by the surrounding rock but also the relationship between the macro stress shell and the stress chain shell. The stability of the shell determines the stability of the surrounding rock, and the instability of the shell will lead to dynamic disasters such as strong dynamic pressure or rock burst.
Case Studies and Evaluation of Green Mining considering Uncertainty Factors and Multiple Indicator Weights
Authors: Wang J. , Hu B. , Chang J. , Wang W. P. , Li H. L.
Published: October 2020

The implementation of green mining (GM) can improve the quality of economic growth. Based on uncertainty measurement theory (UMT), we aim to develop a reasonable method of green mining (GM) evaluation for building material (BM) mines via comparative analysis. At first, establish UMT evaluating model for GM. The linear uncertainty (LU) measurement function was employed to solve single indicator measure values. Then, based on the entropy weight method (EWM), the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and a method that couples AHP and EWM (EWM-AHP), and the weights of the evaluating indicator were determined. At last, based on UMT, a total of 6 coupled methods are developed to evaluate the GM grades. The GM grades of two building material mines in China were evaluated by applying the 6 methods. Future suggestions were given to the enterprises to improve the GM grades. According to the actual situations of GM in the two building material (BM) mines, it can be speculated that UMT-EWM-AHP-CDRT is the most reasonable method. The reasonable method can not only evaluate the GM grades for BM but also provide guidance to the development of GM for BM.
Calcification of the Anterior Acromial Insertion of the Deltoid Muscle
Authors: Yukata Kiminori , Suthar Ashish , Suetomi Yutaka , Yamazaki Kazuhiro , Doi Kazuteru , Fujii Hiroshi
Published: October 2020

A 45-year-old man presented with severe left shoulder pain that was not associated with trauma. Plain radiography with the arm in an elevated position and ultrasonography demonstrated calcium deposits at the anterior acromial insertion site of left deltoid muscle. Conservative management could successfully relieve pain. At the 3-year follow-up, the calcification completely disappeared. To the best of our knowledge, calcium deposits at the acromial insertion site of the deltoid have not been reported in the literature. Clinicians who suspect calcific tendinitis but do not observe calcification around the rotator cuff should carefully palpate and examine other sites, such as the deltoid origin, and use ultrasonography or radiography.
Long-Term Survival of Enamel-Defect-Affected Teeth
Authors: Hong Chuen Lin , Broadbent Jonathan Mark , Thomson William Murray
Published: October 2020

There has been considerable research focussed on the occurrence and aetiology of developmental defects of enamel, but less is known about the extent to which enamel-defect-affected teeth may be at greater risk for dental caries. The Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study is a prospective cohort study of 1,037 children born in Dunedin, New Zealand, between April 1, 1972, and March 31, 1973. Participants were examined for the presence of developmental defects of enamel at the age of 9 years and then repeatedly for the occurrence of dental caries through to the age of 45 years. After controlling for confounding variables, incisor teeth affected by demarcated opacities at the age of 9 were 3.4 times more likely to be restored than teeth unaffected by defects. Incisors with diffuse opacities and hypoplasia or combinations of defects were 2.8 times more likely to be restored. Molars with enamel defects of any type did not have any significantly different risk for being subsequently restored or lost due to caries than unaffected molars, except those affected by diffuse opacities, which were at 0.4 times the risk of being lost due to caries. Dental clinicians should be aware that enamel-defect-affected teeth are not necessarily at greater risk for tooth loss due to caries in the long term, but permanent incisors affected by enamel defects are at higher risk of receiving restorative intervention.
Genetic Spectrum of Left Ventricular Non-Compaction in Paediatric Patients
Authors: Vershinina Tatiana , Fomicheva Yulia , Muravyev Alexey , Jorholt John , Kozyreva Alexandra , Kiselev Artem , Gordeev Michail , Vasichkina Elena , Segrushichev Alexey , Pervunina Tatyana , Sjoberg Gunnar , Skyttner-Rahmani Sanaz , Sejersen Thomas , Kostareva Anna
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) represents a genetically heterogeneous cardiomyopathy which occurs in both children and adults. Its genetic spectrum overlaps with other types of cardiomyopathy. However, LVNC phenotypes in different age groups can have distinct genetic aetiologies. The aim of the study was to decipher the genetic spectrum of LVNC presented in childhood. Patient Group and Methods: Twenty patients under the age of 18 years diagnosed with LVNC were enrolled in the study. Target sequencing and whole-exome sequencing were performed using a panel of 108 cardiomyopathy-associated genes. Pathogenic, likely pathogenic, and variants of unknown significance found in genes highly expressed in cardiomyocytes were considered as variants of interest for further analysis. Results: The median age at presentation was 8.0 (0.1–17) years, with 6 patients presenting before 1 year of age. Twelve (60%) patients demonstrated reduced ejection fraction. Right ventricular (RV) dilation was registered in 6 (30%), often in combination with reduced RV contractility (25%). Almost half (45%) of the patients demonstrated biventricular involvement already at disease presentation. For pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants, the positive genotyping rate was 45%, and these variants were found mainly in non-contractile structural sarcomeric genes (ACTN2, MYPN, and TTN) or in metabolic and signal transduction genes (BRAF and TAZ). Likely pathogenic TAZ variants were detected in all 5 patients suspected of having Barth syndrome. No pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were found in genes encoding for sarcomeric contractile proteins, but variants of unknown significance were detected in 3 out of 20 patients (MYH6, MYH7, and MYLK2). In 4 patients, variants of unknown significance in ion-channel genes were detected. Conclusion: We detected a low burden of contractile sarcomeric variants in LVNC patients presenting below the age of 18 years, with the major number of variants residing in non-contractile structural sarcomeric genes. The identification of the variants in ion-channel and related genes not previously associated with LVNC in paediatric patients requires further examination of their functional role.
Effekte der Kneipp-Therapie: Ein systematischer Review der aktuellen wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse (2000–2019)
Authors: Stier-Jarmer Marita , Throner Veronika , Kirschneck Michaela , Frisch Dieter , Schuh Angela
Published: October 2020

Einleitung: Ziel dieser systematischen Übersicht war die Bewertung der verfügbaren Evidenz zur Wirkung der Kneipp-Therapie. Methoden: MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane-Library und CAMbase wurden nach relevanten Artikeln, veröffentlicht zwischen 2000 und 2019, durchsucht. Graue Literatur wurde über Google Scholar und andere Tools bezogen. Studien mit jeglicher Art von Studiendesign, die die Effekte der Kneipp-Therapie untersuchten, wurden eingeschlossen. Die Qualitätsbewertung erfolgte mittels EPHPP-QAT. Ergebnisse: 25 Quellen, darunter 14 kontrol­lierte Studien, wurden eingeschlossen. Gemäß EPHPP-QAT wurden 3 Studien “stark”, 13 “moderat” und 9 “schwach” bewertet. Neun (64%) der kontrollierten Studien berichteten signifikante Verbesserungen nach Kneipp-Therapie im Gruppenvergleich bei chronisch-venöser Insuffizienz, Hypertonie, leichter Herzinsuffizienz, menopausalen Be­schwerden und Schlafstörungen in verschiedenen Patientenkollektiven sowie verbesserte Immunparameter bei gesunden Probanden. Im Hinblick auf Depression und Angst bei Mammakarzinom-Patientinnen mit klimakterischen Beschwerden, Lebensqualität bei Post-Polio-Syndrom, krankheitsbedingten polyneuropathischen Beschwerden und Inzidenz von Erkältungsepisoden bei Kindern konnten keine signifikanten Gruppenunterschiede festgestellt werden. Elf unkontrollierte Studien berichteten Verbesse­rungen bei allergischen Symptomen, Dyspepsie, Lebens­qualität, Herzratenvariabilität, Infekten, Hypertonie, Wohlbefinden, Schmerz und polyneuropathischen Beschwerden. Diskussion/Schlussfolgerung: Die Kneipp-Therapie scheint bei zahlreichen Beschwerdebildern in verschiedenen Patientenkollektiven positive Effekte zu bewirken. Zukünftige Studien sollten noch stärker auf eine methodisch sorgfältige Studienplanung achten (Kontrollgruppen, Randomisierung, adäquate Fallzahlen, Verblindung), um Verzerrungen entgegenzuwirken.
Changes in Cerebral Volume and White Matter Integrity in Adults on Hemodialysis and Relationship to Cognitive Function
Authors: Richerson Wesley T. , Umfleet Laura G. , Schmit Brian D. , Wolfgram Dawn F.
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Patients on hemodialysis (HD) have a significant burden of cognitive impairment. Characterizing the cerebral structural changes in HD patients compared to healthy controls and evaluating the relationship of cerebral structural integrity with cognitive performance in HD patients can help clarify the pathophysiology of the cognitive impairment in HD patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, in-center HD patients ≥50 years of age underwent brain structural and diffusion MRIs and cognitive assessment using the NIH Toolbox cognition battery. The cerebral imaging measures of the HD participants were compared to imaging from age-matched controls. Gray matter volume, white matter volume, and white matter integrity determined by diffusion tensor imaging parameters (including fractional anisotropy [FA]) were measured in both cohorts to determine differences in the cerebral structure between HD participants and healthy controls. The association between cognitive performance on the NIH Toolbox cognition battery and cerebral structural integrity was evaluated using multiple linear regression models. Results: We compared imaging measures form 23 HD participants and 15 age-matched controls. The HD participants had decreased gray matter volumes (526.8 vs. 589.5 cm3, p < 0.01) and worsened white matter integrity overall (FA values of 0.2864 vs. 0.3441, p < 0.01) within major white matter tracts compared to healthy controls. Decreases in white matter integrity in the left superior longitudinal fasciculus was associated with lower executive function scores (r2 = 0.24, p = 0.02) and inferior longitudinal fasciculus with lower memory scores (r = 0.25 and p = 0.03 for left and r2 = 0.21 and p = 0.03 for right). Conclusions: HD patients have a pattern of decreased white matter integrity and gray matter atrophy compared to controls. Decreases in white matter integrity were associated with decreased cognitive performance in the HD population.
Fetal Non-Ovarian Abdominopelvic Cystic Lesions: A Single-Center Report
Authors: Eyerly-Webb Stephanie A. , Joshi Shilvi , Dion Eric , Snowise Saul , Lillegard Joseph , Feltis Brad A.
Published: October 2020

Introduction: There is a paucity of reports describing the clinical course and likely postnatal outcomes of prenatally identified simple cystic abdominopelvic lesions which are not associated with the ovary. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the natural history and postnatal outcomes of prenatally discovered abdominopelvic cystic lesions seen at our center. Methods: This study is a retrospective review of all newborns with prenatally discovered non-ovarian simple cystic abdominal or pelvic lesions (September 2012–December 2018). Prenatal solid organ involvement, lesion size, and postnatal clinical outcomes are described. Results: Sixty-six patients with 68 cystic lesions were identified; 22 patients with 24 lesions met the defined study criteria and were included. Eleven (46%) resolved prenatally, while 5 (21%) resolved by 18 months of age. Of the 10 lesions associated with an organ, 4 (40%) resolved prenatally. Of the remaining 14 lesions not associated with a solid organ, 7 (50%) resolved prenatally. Seven lesions (29%) required postnatal surgical intervention. Larger maximum prenatal lesions tended toward postnatal surgical intervention (one-way ANOVA: p = 0.072). Conclusions: The majority of simple non-ovarian cystic abdominopelvic lesions at our center resolved in the perinatal period. Due to the low frequency of these lesions at fetal centers, a larger multicenter study based on a consistent monitoring protocol should be undertaken to better describe the resolution patterns of simple non-ovarian cystic lesions for improved prenatal counseling.
Temporal Stability of Lead Orientation in Directional Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Dembek Till A. , Asendorf Adrian L. , Wirths Jochen , Barbe Michael T. , Visser-Vandewalle Veerle , Treuer Harald
Published: October 2020

Background: Directional deep brain stimulation (DBS) enlarges the therapeutic window by increasing side-effect thresholds and improving clinical benefits. To determine the optimal stimulation settings and interpret clinical observations, knowledge of the lead orientation in relation to the patient’s anatomy is required. Objective: To determine if directional leads remain in a fixed orientation after implantation or whether orientation changes over time. Method: Clinical records of 187 patients with directional DBS electrodes were screened for CT scans in addition to the routine postoperative CT. The orientation angle of each electrode at a specific point in time was reconstructed from CT artifacts using the DiODe algorithm implemented in Lead-DBS. The orientation angles over time were compared with the originally measured orientations from the routine postoperative CT. Results: Multiple CT scans were identified in 18 patients and the constancy of the orientation angle was determined for 29 leads at 48 points in time. The median time difference between the observations and the routine postoperative CT scan was 82 (range 1–811) days. The mean difference of the orientation angles compared to the initial measurement was –1.1 ± 3.9° (range –7.6 to 8.7°). Linear regression showed no relevant drift of the absolute value of the orientation angle over time (0.8°/year, adjusted R2: 0.040, p = 0.093). Conclusion: The orientation of directional leads was stable and showed no clinically relevant changes either in the first weeks after implantation or over longer periods of time.
Serum Exosomal Dicer Is a Useful Biomarker for Early Detection of Differentiated Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Okuda Yusuke , Shimura Takaya , Iwasaki Hiroyasu , Katano Takahito , Kitagawa Mika , Nishigaki Ruriko , Fukusada Shigeki , Natsume Makoto , Tanaka Mamoru , Nishie Hirotada , Ozeki Keiji , Yamada Tamaki , Kataoka Hiromi
Published: October 2020

Background and Aim: A recent basic study identified that Dicer is contained in exosomes derived from cancer cells and plays crucial roles in microRNA maturation and cancer development. Based on this novel basic concept, we analyzed the usefulness of serum exosomal Dicer as a diagnostic biomarker for gastrointestinal cancers. Methods: Enrolled participants (691) were categorized into 3 groups: gastric cancer (GC) cohort, 183 patients (90 healthy controls (HCs) and 93 GC patients); esophageal cancer (EC) cohort, 115 patients (90 HCs and 25 EC patients); and colorectal cancer (CRC) cohort, 188 patients (92 HCs and 96 CRC patients) after age- and sex matching using the propensity score. The quality of isolated serum exosomes was validated with an electron microscope, particle size analyzer, and exosome marker, CD63. Results: Serum exosomal Dicer was significantly higher in the GC group than in the HC group (p = 0.004), whereas no significant differences were found in both EC and CRC cohorts. Serum exosomal Dicer was significantly higher in only differentiated gastric adenocarcinoma and not in the undifferentiated type. Moreover, serum exosomal Dicer showed no significant differences regardless of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) status. The biomarker panel combining serum exosomal Dicer with H. pylori status distinguished between HC and differentiated GC patients with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.762. As for early-stage diagnosis, this combination distinguished between HC and stage I differentiated GC with an AUC = 0.758. Conclusions: Serum exosomal Dicer is a potential noninvasive diagnostic biomarker for early detection of differentiated gastric adenocarcinoma.
Short-Term Follow-Up of Self-Isolated COVID-19 Patients with Smell and Taste Dysfunction in Greece: Two Phenotypes of Recovery
Authors: Konstantinidis Iordanis , Delides Alexander , Tsakiropoulou Evangelia , Maragoudakis Pavlos , Sapounas Spyridon , Tsiodras Sotirios
Published: October 2020

Introduction: The course of anosmia and ageusia in COVID-19 patients is not yet clearly known. We present short-term follow-up data concerning mild to moderate disease in home-quarantined COVID-19 patients in Greece. Methods: We provided a symptom questionnaire and instructions for a self-administered home smell-and-taste test to 79 positive COVID-19 patients from 2 tertiary hospitals in Greece. The patients recorded their subjective symptoms before and during infection as well as 4 weeks after the diagnosis. The patients also underwent the home test during infection and 4 weeks later. Results: Twenty-nine patients (36.7%) reported a loss of smell, and 21 (27.8%) reported a loss of taste, with equal prevalences between genders. We observed 2 types of recovery, i.e., a rapid, almost complete recovery, and a second slower and partial recovery. The type of recovery was not age related. A rapid recovery was observed in two thirds of the patients, with their olfactory ratings presenting a trend towards significance in correlation with nasal obstruction. A slow recovery in olfaction was correlated with low intensity ratings in odors with a trigeminal compound. The loss of taste was more pronounced in sweet and salty intensity ratings. Conclusion: Chemosensory deficits associated with COVID-19 infection were quite frequent among the Greek patients with mild or moderate disease who, in most cases, returned to normal within 4 weeks. However, 1 in 3 patients presented with persistent olfactory and gustatory dysfunction in the short term.
The Impact of COVID-19 Disease on Platelets and Coagulation
Authors: Wool Geoffrey D. , Miller Jonathan L.
Published: October 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes a spectrum of disease; some patients develop a severe proinflammatory state which can be associated with a unique coagulopathy and procoagulant endothelial phenotype. Initially, COVID-19 infection produces a prominent elevation of fibrinogen and D-dimer/fibrin(ogen) degradation products. This is associated with systemic hypercoagulability and frequent venous thromboembolic events. The degree of D-dimer elevation positively correlates with mortality in COVID-19 patients. COVID-19 also leads to arterial thrombotic events (including strokes and ischemic limbs) as well as microvascular thrombotic disorders (as frequently documented at autopsy in the pulmonary vascular beds). COVID-19 patients often have mild thrombocytopenia and appear to have increased platelet consumption, together with a corresponding increase in platelet production. Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) and severe bleeding events are uncommon in COVID-19 patients. Here, we review the current state of knowledge of COVID-19 and hemostasis.
Citizen Science and Scientific Objectivity: Mapping Out Epistemic Risks and Benefits
Authors: Bedessem Baptiste , Ruphy Stéphanie
Published: October 2020

Given the importance of the issue of scientific objectivity in our democratic societies and the significant development of citizen science, it is crucial to investigate how citizen science may either undermine or foster scientific objectivity. This paper identifies a variety of epistemic risks and benefits that participation of lay citizens in scientific inquiries may bring. It also discusses concrete actions and pending issues that should be addressed in order to foster objectivity in citizen science programs.
Pomacentrus bangladeshius, a new species of damselfish (Perciformes, Pomacentridae) from Saint Martin’s Island, Bangladesh
Authors: HABIB KAZI AHSAN , ISLAM MD JAYEDUL , NAHAR NAJMUN , NEOGI AMIT KUMER
Published: October 2020

A new species of damselfish, Pomacentrus bangladeshius, is described from 3 specimens, 67–77 mm standard length (SL), collected from Saint Martin’s Island, Bangladesh. The new species is distinguished from congeners in having the following combination of characters: XIV, 13 dorsal-fin elements; II, 14 anal-fin elements; 19 pectoral-fin rays; 18–19 lateral-line scales; 17–19 gill rakers on first arch; body depth 1.68–1.88 (1.88) in SL; snout 4.17–4.60 (4.17) in head length; head 2.91–3.09 (3.08) in SL; a prominent notch present between preorbital and suborbital; olive to dark brown body color, dark brown premaxilla, and yellow iris with a narrow bronze eye ring. The new species inhabits shallow reef flats around rock and coral outcrops. Phylogenetic analysis also shows the clear divergence of P. bangladeshius from other genetically closely related congeneric species retrieved from GenBank and that it represents a separate lineage.