bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ayme gripp syndrome in an Indian patient
Authors: Chaudhry Chakshu , Kaur Parminder , Srivastava Priyanka , Kaur Anupriya
Published: January 2021

Ayme Gripp syndrome (OMIM#601088) is a multisystem disorder caused by heterozygous variation in the MAF (OMIM*177075). The typical phenotype comprises a tetralogy of congenital cataract, sensory neural hearing loss, a characteristic facial appearance along with neurodevelopment abnormalities. Exact prevalence estimates are unknown. Only 21 individuals representing 19 families have been reported in the literature till date. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first detailed case report of a boy with Ayme Gripp syndrome from our country. Although he had multiple typical features of the syndrome along with a known pathogenic variation in the MAF, cataract was not observed in him at the age of seven years.
Nickel(II)‐Mediated C−S Cross‐Coupling Between Thiols and ortho‐Substituted Arylboronic Acid
Authors: Hanaya Kengo , Ohtsu Hiroyoshi , Kawano Masaki , Higashibayashi Shuhei , Sugai Takeshi
Published: December 2020

Herein, we report a C−S cross‐coupling reaction between alkyl thiols or aryl thiols and ortho‐substituted arylboronic acids that proceeds in the presence of an inexpensive and ligand‐free NiCl2 ⋅ 6H2O salt and N‐methylmorpholine, a weak base, at 25 °C in air. The presence of coordinating and electron‐withdrawing groups at the ortho‐position of the arylboronic acids played a crucial role in determining the efficiency of the reaction. X‐ray crystallographic analysis revealed that the [NiCl2(DMF)2(H2O)2] complex was formed in‐situ. The complex is an excellent precursor of the active nickel species. The reaction offers an extremely mild and operationally convenient method to access a wide variety of alkyl aryl sulfides and diaryl sulfides without using expensive transition metals, such as palladium, gold, and rhodium, and specialized and expensive ligands.
Castor Epoxy Fatty Acid Alkyl Ester Estolides as Bioplasticizers for Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
Authors: Stolp Lucas J. , Grass Michael , Kodali Dharma R.
Published: December 2020

Epoxy fatty acid alkyl ester estolides were synthesized from castor oil to be used as biobased plasticizers for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) as a safer replacement for phthalate plasticizers. Initially, castor oil was transesterified with methanol or n‐butanol to quantitatively yield castor fatty acid alkyl esters. Acetylation of hydroxyl function with acetic anhydride led to the formation of estolide. The unsaturation was epoxidized, resulting in a bifunctional epoxy fatty acid alkyl ester estolide. The bioplasticizers were compounded with PVC and were evaluated for their functionality and compared with commercial phthalate plasticizer diisononyl phthalate (DINP) and nonphthalate 1,2‐cyclohexanoic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH). The bioplasticizers showed excellent gelation, efficiency, and compatibility, as well as plastisol viscosity and thermal properties, comparable to or better than the plastisols prepared with commercial controls DINP and DINCH. The volatility of the methyl ester was inferior to the butyl ester. Both compounds showed low water resistance properties. Further evaluation of the butyl ester under tropical conditions of high temperature and humidity confirmed limited compatibility. This indicates that the castor epoxy fatty acid ester estolides would be better suited for applications that do not come in contact with water for prolonged periods, such as flooring, artificial leather, wiring, or wall coverings.
Development of non‐leaching antibacterial coatings through quaternary ammonium salts of styrene based copolymers
Authors: Ifra  , Kongkham Bhani , Sharma Shivangi , Chaurasiya Alok , Biswal Agni K. , Hariprasad P. , Saha Sampa
Published: December 2020

Non‐leaching antibacterial coatings through quaternary ammonium salts containing polymers were successfully produced in a facile way to provide infection resistant surfaces against multi drug resistant bacteria such as B. licheniformis. In order to do so, a series of random copolymers of styrene (S) and vinyl benzyl chloride (VBC) were synthesized by free radical polymerization technique and subsequently, VBC (V) was functionalized with N,N‐dimethylhexadecylamine to introduce quaternary ammonium (QA) salts in the backbone of the copolymers. The copolymers showed an excellent film forming ability, thereby providing an ultrathin coating on various substrates such as metal (stainless steel), glass, polyethylene and polystyrene, as observed by SEM.The coatings were found to be uniform, non leachable in aqueous medium and exhibit good adhesion to various substrates. The antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of the non‐leachable coating of random copolymers were screened against B. licheniformis. Among, the copolymer containing 75% quaternized VBC (75VSQA) having 16‐C long alkyl chain was found to show maximum antibacterial and antibiofilm activity owing to an appropriate hydrophobic /hydrophilic balance. Their non‐leachable antibacterial and antibiofim activity make these coatings suitable for many applications, e.g. marine paints, textile/hospital coatings etc.
All‐trans retinoic acid induces leukemia resistance to NK cell cytotoxicity by down‐regulating B7‐H6 expression via c‐Myc signaling
Authors: Cao Guoshuai , Cheng Ying , Zheng Xiaodong , Wei Haiming , Tian Zhigang , Sun Rui , Sun Haoyu
Published: January 2021

Background

The interaction between activating receptor NKp30 and its major tumor ligand B7‐H6 is important for NK cell‐mediated tumor rejection. However, the regulation of B7‐H6 by tumor therapeutics remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the regulation of B7‐H6 by all‐trans retinoic acid (atRA), a terminal differentiation inducer of tumor cells that is extensively used for clinical leukemia therapy.

Methods

We investigated the role of NKp30:B7‐H6 axis in NK cell‐mediated tumor lysis against leukemia cells and the influence of atRA treatment on the cytotoxicity of NK cells using NK cell lines (NK92 and NKG) and leukemia cell lines (U‐937 and THP‐1). We evaluated the effect of atRA treatment on the expression of B7‐H6 using real‐time PCR, flow cytometry and western blotting. We used CRISPR/Cas9 to knockdown B7‐H6 expression and siRNA to knockdown c‐Myc in U‐937 cells to evaluate the role of B7‐H6 and c‐Myc in atRA‐induced tumor resistance against NK cells.

Results

NK cell‐mediated U‐937 cell lysis was mainly dependent on NKp30/B7‐H6 interaction. Blockade of B7‐H6 by monoclonal antibody significantly impaired NK cytotoxicity. atRA treatment induced U‐937 resistance to NK cell cytotoxicity by reducing B7‐H6 expression, and showed no effect on NK cytotoxicity against B7‐H6 knockdown U‐937 cells. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone deacetylase (HDAC), were not responsible for atRA‐mediated B7‐H6 down‐regulation as inhibitors of these pathways could not restore B7‐H6 mRNA expression. On the other hand, atRA treatment reduced c‐Myc expression, which in turn inhibited the transcription of B7‐H6 on leukemia cells.

Conclusion

atRA treatment promotes tumor cell resistance against NK cell‐mediated lysis by down‐regulating B7‐H6 expression via the c‐Myc signaling pathway, suggesting that more attention needs to be paid to the immunological adverse effects in the clinical use of atRA treatment.
Interseeding Cover Crops in Corn
Authors: Brooker Aaron , Renner Karen
Published: December 2020

Seasonal constraints following corn grain harvest in the upper Midwest often limit cover crop seeding and restrict the species that can establish and produce biomass prior to the winter months. Interseeding cover crops in corn fields in the early vegetative stages of corn is an additional option to establish a cover crop. This article, based on research originally reported in Agronomy Journal (see https://doi.org/10.1002/agj2.20046), reports on the results of field experiments in Michigan that evaluated interseeding a number of cover crop species at various corn growth stages. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Crop Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/917.
Genetic structure as a response to anthropogenic and extreme weather disturbances of a coastal dune dwelling spider, Arctosa sanctaerosae
Authors: Hataway Robert A. , Reed David H.
Published: December 2020

The continued increase in the number of tourists visiting the Northern Gulf Coast (NGC), USA, in the last century, and the resulting sprawl of large cities along the coast, has degraded and fragmented the available habitat of Arctosa sanctaerosae, a wolf spider endemic to the secondary dunes of the white sandy beaches of the NGC. In addition to anthropogenic disturbance to this coastal region, hurricanes are an additional and natural perturbation to the ecosystem. The data presented here explore the status of populations of this species spanning the entire known range and the factors influencing population demography including anthropogenic disturbance and severe tropical storms. Using microsatellite markers, we were able to document the genetic structure of A. sanctaerosae, including current and historic patterns of migration. These results combined with ecological and census data reveal the characteristics that have influenced population persistence: ecological variables affecting the recovery of the population clusters after severe tropical storms, genetic fragmentation due to anthropogenic disturbance, and their interaction. These findings demonstrate the significance that the high traffic beach communities of the NGC and their impact on the once intact contiguous dune ecosystem have on recovery after severe tropical storms. Contemporary modeling methods that compare current and historic levels of gene flow suggest A. sanctaerosae has experienced a single, contiguous population subdivision, and the isolates reduced in size since the onset of commercial development of the NGC. These results point to the need for monitoring of the species and increased protection for this endangered habitat.
Assessment of Corrosion Inhibition Performance and Adsorption Thermodynamics of Hydrogen Phosphate (HPO42−) and Molybdate (MoO42−) Oxyanions on Tin in Maleic Acid
Authors: Ait Addi Brahim , El Ibrahimi Brahim , Ait Addi Abdelaziz , Shaban Abdul , Ait Addi El‐Habib , Hamdani Mohamed
Published: January 2021

The influence of hydrogen phosphate (HPO42−) and molybdate ions (MoO42−) on the behavior of tin corrosion in 0.2 M maleic acid was compared using experimental and theoretical techniques. The experimental studies consisted of the electrochemical investigations (potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS)), along with the surface analytical techniques (SEM and EDX). Additionally, the theoretical analysis (the chemical quantum computations at MP4/SDD level of theory in the aqueous phase), was conducted. The experimental outcomes illustrated that the inhibition efficiency (η%) increases with the concentration of the inhibitors, reaching 88 % and 81 % at 2×10−2 M concentration of MoO42− and HPO42−, respectively. The potentiodynamic polarization curves revealed that HPO42− performance is a cathodic‐type inhibitor, while MoO42− shows a mixed‐type behavior. The increase in temperature decreased the η% values of both inhibitors. Based on surface analysis and thermodynamic study, the presence of the two inhibitors formed protective films on the tin surface through a physisorption mechanism. The chemical quantum computations using the complete fourth‐order Møller Plesset perturbation theory (MP4 with SDD basis) method results outlined the favorable affinity of the investigated inorganic inhibitors to interact with the tin surface, which interprets the well‐observed inhibition efficiencies.
Benzodiazepines and antidepressants: Effects on cognitive and functional decline in Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia
Authors: Borda Miguel Germán , Jaramillo‐Jimenez Alberto , Oesterhus Ragnhild , Santacruz Jose Manuel , Tovar‐Rios Diego Alejandro , Soennesyn Hogne , Cano‐Gutierrez Carlos Alberto , Vik‐Mo Audun Osland , Aarsland Dag
Published: January 2021

Objectives

We aim to study the effects of the prescription of benzodiazepines and antidepressants on cognitive and functional decline in older adults living with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Lewy body dementia (LBD) over a 5‐year follow‐up.

Methods

This is a longitudinal analysis of a Norwegian cohort study entitled “The Dementia Study of Western Norway” (DemVest). We included 196 patients newly diagnosed with AD (n = 111) and LBD (n = 85), followed annually for 5 years. Three prescription groups were defined: only benzodiazepines (BZD), only antidepressants (ADep), and the combination of benzodiazepines and antidepressants (BZD‐ADep). Linear mixed‐effects models were conducted to analyze the effect of the defined groups on the outcomes. The outcomes were functional decline, measured by the Rapid Disability Rating Scale—2, and cognition measured with the Mini‐Mental State Examination.

Results

Prescription of the combination of benzodiazepines and antidepressants in LBD was associated with faster functional decline. In AD, the prescription of BZD and BZD‐ADep was associated with greater functional deterioration. ADep alone did not show positive or negative significant associations with the studied outcomes.

Conclusions

BZD and especially the combination of BZD and ADep are associated with functional decline in AD and LBD and should be used cautiously.
Exploratory study of functional and psychological factors associated with employment status in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Broemer Laura , Friedrich Michael , Wichmann Gunnar , Müller Juliane , Neumuth Thomas , Dietz Andreas , Mehnert Anja , Wiegand Susanne , Zebralla Veit
Published: January 2021

Background

Compared with other malignancies, head and neck cancer (HNC) increases the risk of not returning to work (RTW).

Methods

Within a cross‐sectional study, patients with HNC filled out the OncoFunction questionnaire, a version of the International Classification of Functioning Core Sets for HNC. In 231 patients below 65 years of age, associations of sociodemographic, clinical, functional, and psychological factors with employment and participation in rehabilitation program were explored.

Results

Unemployed patients reported more swallowing difficulties and speaking problems. Being unemployed was associated with higher levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms, fatigue, and lower global health. Rehabilitation participation was not significantly associated with any of the assessed factors except for smoking.

Conclusions

Unemployed patients with HNC are more burdened than employed patients with HNC regarding clinical, psychological, and functional factors. These differences are more evident later in recovery. Rehabilitation participation was not associated with psychological and functional burden which indicates the need for tailored HNC rehabilitation programs.
Prostate cancer extracellular vesicles mediate intercellular communication with bone marrow cells and promote metastasis in a cholesterol‐dependent manner
Authors: Henrich Stephen E. , McMahon Kaylin M. , Plebanek Michael P. , Calvert Andrea E. , Feliciano Timothy J. , Parrish Samuel , Tavora Fabio , Mega Anthony , De Souza Andre , Carneiro Benedito A. , Thaxton C. Shad
Published: January 2021

Primary tumours can establish long‐range communication with distant
organs to transform them into fertile soil for circulating tumour cells to
implant and proliferate, a process called pre‐metastatic niche (PMN) formation. Tumour‐derived extracellular vesicles (EV) are potent mediators of PMN formation due to their diverse complement of pro‐malignant molecular cargo and their propensity to target specific cell types (Costa‐Silva et al., 2015; Hoshino et al., 2015; Peinado et al., 2012; Peinado et al., 2017). While significant progress has been made to understand the mechanisms by which pro‐metastatic EVs create tumour‐favouring microenvironments at pre‐metastatic organ sites, comparatively little attention has been paid to the factors intrinsic to recipient cells that may modify the extent to which pro‐metastatic EV signalling is received and transduced. Here, we investigated the role of recipient cell cholesterol homeostasis in prostate cancer (PCa) EV‐mediated signalling and metastasis. Using a bone metastatic model of enzalutamide‐resistant PCa, we first characterized an axis of EV‐mediated communication between PCa cells and bone marrow that is marked by in vitro and in vivo PCa EV uptake by bone marrow myeloid cells, activation of NF‐κB signalling, enhanced osteoclast differentiation, and reduced myeloid thrombospondin‐1 expression. We then employed a targeted, biomimetic approach to reduce myeloid cell cholesterol in vitro and in vivo prior to conditioning with PCa EVs. Reducing myeloid cell cholesterol prevented the uptake of PCa EVs by recipient myeloid cells, abolished NF‐κB activity and osteoclast differentiation, stabilized thrombospondin‐1 expression, and reduced metastatic burden by 77%. These results demonstrate that cholesterol homeostasis in bone marrow myeloid cells regulates pro‐metastatic EV signalling and metastasis by acting as a gatekeeper for EV signal transduction.
Red‐tailed phascogales: A review of their biology and importance as model marsupial species
Authors: Old Julie M. , Ong Oselyne T. W. , Stannard Hayley J.
Published: December 2020

There are many limitations when using traditional laboratory species. Limits on variation, may result in limited outcomes, at both the species and individual level, due to different individuals/species having diverse physiological processes, or differing molecular and genetic mechanisms. By using a variety of model species, we will be able to develop creative solutions to biological problems and identify differences of which we were not previously aware. The laboratory mouse has been a suitable model species for various mammalian studies, however most are bred specifically for laboratory research with limited variability due to selective breeding. Marsupial models offer unique research opportunities compared to eutherian models. We believe that there should be an expansion in marsupial model species, and the introduction of the red‐tailed phascogale (Phascogale calura), a dasyurid marsupial, should be one of them. Phascogales are easily managed in captivity, and there are now multiple studies involving their development, reproduction, nutrition, behavior and immune system, which can serve as a baseline for future studies. The addition of the phascogale as a model species will improve future mammalian studies by introducing variability and offer alternate solutions to biological problems, particularly in the areas of genetics, nutrition, immunology, the neuro‐endocrine system, and ageing, due to their semelparous reproductive strategy and hence, subsequent predictive physiology. In this review, we provide information based on existing research on red‐tailed phascogales to support their inclusion as a model species.
Secondary kinetic deuterium isotope effects on unimolecular cleavage reactions: Zero‐point vibrational energy and qualitative RRKM theory
Authors: Østergaard Lars F. , Hammerum Steen
Published: January 2021

Secondary kinetic isotope effects arise as the result of transition‐state zero‐point vibrational energy differences. Unimolecular simple cleavage reactions of gas‐phase ions in mass spectrometers allow detailed studies of isotope effects on competing reactions, particularly when examined in intramolecular competition experiments where interpretation requires very few simplifying assumptions. The zero‐point energy differences reflect changes of isotope sensitive vibrational properties, and both α‐ and β‐secondary deuterium isotope effects are related to the sp
3 → sp
2 hybridization changes that accompany bond cleavage. Deuterium substitution three bonds or more removed from the bond broken also gives rise to isotope effects, but their origin is less easily interpreted. The magnitude and variation of the observed effects depend not only on zero‐point energy differences; a number of additional factors play a role. The influence of the critical energy, the excess energy, the size of the reactant, and the presence of competing reactions can be rationalized within a simple, qualitative RRKM framework. The distinction between kinetic and thermodynamic isotope effects is not always obvious.
Mental Health Weekly takes a look back at the top stories of a year like no other
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2021

The country last year was turned on its head by the COVID‐19 pandemic that brought hundreds of thousands of deaths, unprecedented challenges for behavioral health workers and a growing mental health crisis. And amid COVID‐19, isolation, virtual meetings, telehealth sessions and mask wearing quickly became the new norm. The year also witnessed civil unrest and a divisive presidential election.
Kinetics of MMA Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization Initiated by Reducing Agent in Stirred Batch Emulsion Reactor
Authors: Awad Mohammed , Dhib Ramdhane , Duever Thomas
Published: December 2020

Ab initio emulsion atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) differs from regular emulsion polymerization because the kinetic and thermodynamic aspects of each process are very unlikely alike. This paper presents a kinetic analysis of activator generated by electron transfer (AGET) ATRP of methyl methacrylate (MMA) in a stirred emulsion reactor. The focus of the study is to assess the variation of the monomer content in the organic phase and the rate polymerization for different reaction temperatures, as well as the impact of surfactant content and stirring speed on latex stability. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) polymer samples are analyzed by means of gravimetry, dynamic light scattering, gel permeation chromatography, and HNMR techniques to determine monomer conversion, polymer particle diameter, molecular weight distribution, and polymer molecular structure, respectively. The results show the production of PMMA of narrow polydispersity index (Ð) and low molar mass (Mn) for MMA conversion around 60% and detect two‐regions instead of a three‐regions trend of rate of polymerization (Rp) as conventional emulsion polymerization. The reaction rate increases during the nucleation stage and then flattens over an invariant trend which confirms a living feature of the AGET ATRP polymerization. The average number of radicals per latex particle (ñ) is also debated.
Tagungen und Corona:Quer‐ statt Hochformat
Authors: van Wickeren Stefan , Kösters Kristina , Zhou Zhimin , Ying Bixian
Published: January 2021

Aus „Electrochemistry“ wurde in diesem Jahr „Electrochemistry Undercover“, eine aufgrund der Covid‐19‐Pandemie vollständig digitalisierte Konferenz. Wie eine Postersession dabei funktionieren könnte, haben Mitarbeitende des Meet‐Batterieforschungszentrums in Münster überlegt und umgesetzt. Ihre Erfahrungen liefern Ideen für den wissenschaftlichen Austausch auf Distanz.
Fünftes Doktorandenseminar Nucleinsäurechemie in Bad Herrenalb
Authors: Richert Clemens
Published: January 2021

Anfang Oktober fand das Doktorandenseminar der Deutschen Nucleinsäurechemiegemeinschaft (DNG) in Bad Herrenalb statt. An der zweitägigen Veranstaltung nahmen 25 Forscher teil. Es gab sieben Doktorandenvorträge, sieben Posterpräsentationen und sechs Dozentenvorträge, zwei davon per Videoübertragung. Das Spektrum der Vorträge reichte von einer Einführung in die Vortragstechnik bis zu Biologie und Synthese von Nucleinsäuren.
Laborprozesse und Legoroboter
Authors: von der Esch Elisabeth
Published: January 2021

Die chemische Industrie automatisiert die Abläufe in ihren Laboren. Und auch in der Forschung kann Automatisierung die Arbeit erleichtern. Wie das geht, lehrt das Chemiestudium bisher jedoch kaum. An der TU München lernen Studierende nun, Pipettier‐, Sortier‐ oder Transportierroboter zu entwerfen sowie Daten automatisiert auszuwerten. Unter Pandemiebedingungen funktioniert die Lehrveranstaltung auch auf Distanz.
Ganz ohne Glas
Authors: Häge Florian , Thomas Franziska
Published: January 2021

Organische Moleküle entstehen klassischerweise in Glasapparaturen. Eine Alternative sind Reaktorsysteme, die sich leicht an eine Reaktionssequenz anpassen lassen. Drei neue Konzepte.
Mortality in sickle cell disease: A population‐based study in an aboriginal community in the Gudalur Valley, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Sheshadri Veena , Shabeer Pathayakandi , Santhirapala Vatshalan , Jayaram Anusha , Krishnamurti Lakshmanan , Menon Nandakumar
Published: December 2020

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD), the most common monogenic disorder, affects more than 300 000 births annually, with 44  000 in India. Although the clinical phenotype of SCD is considered to be milder in aboriginal populations in India, there is a paucity of data on outcomes. To determine the severity of SCD in this population, we studied mortality rates and causes of mortality in a longitudinal cohort of patients with SCD in a remote aboriginal community in India receiving community‐based comprehensive care.

Procedures

Causes of death were analyzed in this cohort from January 2008 to December 2018. Details were collected from hospital records and in case of deaths at home by utilizing the WHO verbal autopsy questionnaire.

Results

The cohort consisted of 157 patients belonging to the Paniya, Betta Kurumba, Kattunyakan, and Mullu Kurumba tribes. During the study period, there were 22 deaths, all from the Paniya tribe. Twelve deaths (54.5%) occurred in the hospital and the remaining at home (45.5%), reflecting a crude mortality rate of 140 per 1000 population. Twenty‐five percent of deaths occurred in the 6–18 age group. There were no deaths in the 0–5 age group. The median age of death was 25 years, which was 30 years less than in the non‐SCD aboriginal population. The leading causes of death were acute chest syndrome, anemia, and sepsis among the SCD patients and stroke and suicides in the non‐SCD aboriginal population.

Conclusion

SCD is a severe disease among the Gudalur Valley's aboriginal population with a significant risk of premature mortality.
Confirmatory factor analysis of the WIAT‐III in a referral sample
Authors: Parkin Jason R. , Wang Ze
Published: December 2020

The Wechsler individual achievement test, third edition (WIAT‐III) is a popular individually administered achievement battery. Despite its ubiquity in assessment practice, scant research into its structure exists. We analyzed the structure of the WIAT‐III in a sample of students in Grades 3–12 referred for special education evaluations (n = 355). Using confirmatory factor analysis, we evaluated the fit of the factor structure assumed by the composite scores provided by the test publisher. We then compared that model to alternative first‐order, second‐order and bifactor models in an exploratory fashion. Results demonstrated that the publisher implied model does not capture the structure of the WIAT‐III. Instead subtests appear related to each other based on both their domain of academic performance and in other shared abilities. Implications for practice are discussed.
Geometric and volumetric relationship between human lumbar vertebrae and “Black‐bone” MRI‐based models
Authors: Kanawati Andrew , Rodrigues Fernandes Renan Jose , Gee Aaron , Urquhart Jennifer , Bailey Chris , Rasoulinejad Parham
Published: January 2021

Background

This study will examine the differences between human lumbar vertebrae, three‐dimensional (3D) scans of these bones, 3D models based on ‘Black‐bone’ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and 3D‐printed models.

Materials and Methods

3D mesh models were created from the “Black‐bone” MRI data from two cadaveric human spines, and then 3D printed. Four models were analysed and compared: anatomic bones, 3D‐scanned models, MRI models and 3D‐printed models.

Results

There was no significant difference between when comparing the average of all measurements between all model types (p = 0.81). The mean dice coefficient was 0.91 (SD 0.016) and the mean Hausdorff distance was 0.37 mm (SD 0.04 mm) when comparing the MRI model to the 3D‐scanned model. The mean volumes for the MRI model and the 3D scanned model were 10.42 and 10.04 ml (p = 0.085), respectively.

Conclusions

The ‘Black‐bone’ MRI could be a valid radiation‐free alternative to computed tomography for the 3D printing of lumbar spinal biomodels.
A meta‐analysis of DaVinci Si versus Xi in colorectal surgery
Authors: Felsenreich Daniel Moritz , Gachabayov Mahir , Karas Joshua , Rojas Aram , Bergamaschi Roberto ,   RoSiX Study Group
Published: January 2021

Background

The aim of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate whether adoption of DaVinci Xi® had any impact upon intra‐ and postoperative metrics in colorectal surgery.

Methods

The Pubmed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and MEDLINE (Ovid) databases were systematically searched. Operating time as well as docking and surgeon console times were the primary endpoints. Conversion and postoperative complication rates were the secondary endpoints.

Results

Six studies totaling 610 patients (320 Si and 290 Xi) were included. Total operating time [MD (95% CI) = 30.553 (15.071, 46.035); p < 0.001], docking time [MD (95% CI) = 4.178 (2.120, 6.235); p < 0.001] and surgeon console time [MD (95% CI) = 17.246 (−0.479, 34.971); p = 0.056] were longer in DaVinci Si® as compared to DaVinci Xi®. No significant difference was found in conversion (p = 0.816) and postoperative complication rates (p = 0.405).

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis found that the adoption of DaVinci Xi® was associated with significantly decreased total operating time as well as docking and surgeon console times. Conversion and complication rates were similar.
Distributed global fault detection scheme in multi‐agent systems with chained‐form dynamics
Authors: Taoufik Anass , Defoort Michael , Djemai Mohamed , Busawon Krishna , Diego Sánchez‐Torres Juan
Published: December 2020

This paper studies the problem of distributed robust actuator fault detection for multi‐agent systems composed of multiple unicycle‐type mobile agents with chained form dynamics. This objective is achieved through the design of cascades of predefined‐time sliding mode observers to give an exact estimate of the global system state, whereby the settling time is a parameter defined in advance, which does not depend on the initial conditions of the system. The system structure allows us to reconstruct the disturbance inputs using the equivalent control concept to generate efficient residual signals. This method ensures global actuator fault detection, where each agent can detect its faults and those occurring elsewhere in the system using only local information.
Applications of digital PCR in COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tan Chianru , Fan Dongdong , Wang Nan , Wang Fang , Wang Bo , Zhu Lingxiang , Guo Yong
Published: January 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has led to a public health crisis and global panic. This infectious disease is caused by a novel coronavirus named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR), which is an emerging nucleic acid amplification technology that allows absolute quantification of nucleic acids, plays an important role in the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2. In this review, we introduce the principle and advantages of dPCR, and review the applications of dPCR in the COVID‐19 pandemic, including detection of low copy number viruses, measurement of the viral load, preparation of reference materials, monitoring of virus concentration in the environment, detection of viral mutations, and evaluation of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 drugs. We also discuss the challenges of dPCR in clinical practice.
Policy Recommendations for Supporting Supply Chains with Horizontal Actions
Authors: Zimmermann Ricardo , Barros Ana Cristina , Senna Pedro Pinho , Pessot Elena , Marchiori Irene , Fornasiero Rosanna
Published: December 2020

This chapter aims to identify the supply chain (SC) issues that can be considered “horizontal”, as they are cross–sectorial and faced by most companies operating both in production and distribution sectors, and to propose a set of policy recommendations that can support public and private organisations to promote and foster innovation and competitiveness of future European SCs. The definition of the Key Horizontal Issues (KHI) is the basis for developing 12 policy recommendations regarding infrastructure requirements, technological and organisational improvements and regulatory developments needed to set the stage for the European SCs for the future. Specifically, the policy recommendations entail assuring appropriate standards and legislation for European SCs; educating and training professionals for the future SCs; drafting of international agreements aiming at future European SCs; supporting and fostering incentives and funding schemes; promoting reference bodies for European SCs; and establishing infrastructure for fostering of future European SCs.
Future Scenario Settings for Supply Chains
Authors: Sardesai Saskia , Stute Markus , Fornasiero Rosanna , Kalaitzi Dimitra , Barros Ana Cristina , Multu Cemre , Muerza Victoria
Published: December 2020

Trends and future developments make it necessary to discuss the future, but it is their bundling that forms a future scenario. This chapter describes six identified and verified macro-scenarios for future industry specific settings, which are shaped by various socio-economic, political, technological and environmental future developments. The description of each macro-scenario allows conclusions to be drawn on supply chain developments such as circular aspects, trade impacts or necessary supply chain structures. Each future scenario is set in a conceptual framework that provides the context and meaning of possible futures and enables companies to prepare and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Spaces of Life: Transgressions in Conceptualising the World Class University
Authors: Arndt Sonja , Bengtsen Søren Smedegaard , Mika Carl , Nørgård Rikke Toft
Published: December 2020

Beyond knowledge, critical thinking, new ideas, rigorous science and scholarly development, this chapter argues for the university as a space of life. Through the complexities and incommensurabilities of academic life, and drawing on Julia Kristeva’s notion of revolt, Emmanuel Levinas’ notion of Otherness, and Novalis’ concept of Romantisierung, it makes a philosophical argument for recognizing what might appear as uncomfortable transgressions of the marketable, measurable characteristics of World Class Universities. In various ways, the chapter asks where there is space, in the World Class University, for elements which may not overtly align with the neoliberal clamour for international recognition and esteem. In elevating everyday life in the university, the chapter blurs boundaries of the celebrated, strived for rankings with the spaces of life that are dark and heterotopic, messily entangled with histories, polyphonic human and more than human voice, beings and energies, within the university. Revolt provokes a re-turn to re-question the ethics and boundaries of treatments of ‘world’ and ‘class’ in conceptions of the World Class University. Here, ‘World Class University’ is not necessarily a globally streamlined and internationally bench-marked institution, flexing its socio-economic muscles in the face of the world. Instead, it is an institution that speaks for others who have been made silent and deprived of their own critical voice. It speaks for the suppressed and marginalized, and it speaks for the ones who are no longer with us, or who have not yet arrived. It speaks for the people and the times yet to come.
In vitro amplification of pathogenic tau conserves disease-specific bioactive characteristics
Authors: Xu Hong , O’Reilly Mia , Gibbons Garrett S. , Changolkar Lakshmi , McBride Jennifer D. , Riddle Dawn M. , Zhang Bin , Stieber Anna , Nirschl Jeffrey , Kim Soo-Jung , Hoxha Kevt-her , Brunden Kurt R. , Schellenberg Gerard D. , Trojanowski John Q. , Lee Virginia M.-Y.
Published: January 2021

The microtubule-associated protein tau (tau) forms hyperphosphorylated aggregates in the brains of tauopathy patients that can be pathologically and biochemically defined as distinct tau strains. Recent studies show that these tau strains exhibit strain-specific biological activities, also referred to as pathogenicities, in the tau spreading models. Currently, the specific pathogenicity of human-derived tau strains cannot be fully recapitulated by synthetic tau preformed fibrils (pffs), which are generated from recombinant tau protein. Reproducing disease-relevant tau pathology in cell and animal models necessitates the use of human brain-derived tau seeds. However, the availability of human-derived tau is extremely limited. Generation of tau variants that can mimic the pathogenicity of human-derived tau seeds would significantly extend the scale of experimental design within the field of tauopathy research. Previous studies have demonstrated that in vitro seeding reactions can amplify the beta-sheet structure of tau protein from a minute quantity of human-derived tau. However, whether the strain-specific pathogenicities of the original, human-derived tau seeds are conserved in the amplified tau strains has yet to be experimentally validated. Here, we used biochemically enriched brain-derived tau seeds from Alzheimer’s disease (AD), corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) patient brains with a modified seeding protocol to template the recruitment of recombinant 2N4R (T40) tau in vitro. We quantitatively interrogated efficacy of the amplification reactions and the pathogenic fidelity of the amplified material to the original tau seeds using recently developed sporadic tau spreading models. Our data suggest that different tau strains can be faithfully amplified in vitro from tau isolated from different tauopathy brains and that the amplified tau variants retain their strain-dependent pathogenic characteristics.
Effect of Tongue-Hold Swallow on Pharyngeal Contractile Properties in Healthy Individuals
Authors: Aoyagi Yoichiro , Ohashi Miho , Ando Shiori , Inamoto Yoko , Aihara Keiko , Matsuura Yoko , Imaeda Sayuri , Saitoh Eiichi
Published: January 2021

Tongue-hold swallow (THS) is a swallow exercise in which an individual swallows saliva while holding the anterior portion of the tongue between the front teeth. The effect of THS on pharyngeal contractile vigor is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to quantify THS using high-resolution manometry with a contractile integral analysis. Twenty-two healthy participants performed three different saliva swallow tasks: normal swallow, weak THS (in which the tongue was protruded 1 cm outside the upper incisors), and strong THS (in which the tongue was protruded 2 cm outside the upper incisors). The participants repeated each task twice randomly. Pharyngeal and upper esophageal sphincter metrics, including the pharyngeal contractile integral, were analyzed. Both weak and strong THS enhanced the velopharyngeal contractile integral and peak pressure compared with normal swallow (P < 0.01). THS also prolonged mesopharyngeal contraction (P < 0.01). Holding the tongue anteriorly during swallow requires significant biomechanical changes to pharyngeal contractile properties at the superior and middle pharyngeal constrictor levels; thus, it may serve as a resistance exercise for the muscles that are involved in bolus propulsion.
Patterns of treatment and outcome of ductal carcinoma in situ in the Netherlands
Authors: Luiten Jacky D. , Luiten Ernest J. T. , van der Sangen Maurice J. C. , Vreuls Willem , Duijm Lucien E. M. , Tjan-Heijnen Vivianne C. G. , Voogd Adri C.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To spare DCIS patients from overtreatment, treatment de-escalated over the years. This study evaluates the influence of these developments on the patterns of care in the treatment of DCIS with particular interest in the use of breast conserving surgery (BCS), radiotherapy following BCS and the use and type of axillary staging.

Methods

In this large population-based cohort study all women, aged 50–74 years diagnosed with DCIS from January 1989 until January 2019, were analyzed per two-year cohort.

Results

A total of 30,417 women were diagnosed with DCIS. The proportion of patients undergoing BCS increased from 47.7% in 1995–1996 to 72.7% in 2017–2018 (p < 0.001). Adjuvant radiotherapy following BCS increased from 28.9% (1995–1996) to 89.6% (2011–2012) and subsequently decreased to 74.9% (2017–2018; p < 0.001). Since its introduction, the use of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) increased to 63.1% in 2013–2014 and subsequently decreased to 52.8% in 2017–2018 (p < 0.001). Axillary surgery is already omitted in 55.8% of the patients undergoing BCS nowadays. The five-year invasive relapse-free survival (iRFS) for BCS with adjuvant radiotherapy in the period 1989–2010, was 98.7% [CI 98.4% – 99.0%], compared to 95.0% [CI 94.1% –95.8%] for BCS only (p < 0.001). In 2011–2018, this was 99.3% [CI 99.1% – 99.5%] and 98.8% [CI 98.2% – 99.4%] respectively (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

This study shows a shift toward less extensive treatment. DCIS is increasingly treated with BCS and less often followed by additional radiotherapy. The absence of radiotherapy still results in excellent iRFS. Axillary surgery is increasingly omitted in DCIS patients.
New Interview Method for Sketching the Dynamic Relational and Sexual History of Young Adults
Authors: van de Bongardt Daphne , Verbeek Mirthe
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Scientific literature and clinical practice still pay insufficient attention to the interconnectedness between love and sex. Especially youth would benefit in their sexual development from more attention (e.g., in parenting, education, sexual health services) for the complex relational context of sexual decisions and interactions.

Methods

To gain more insight into young people’s dynamically intertwined early experiences with romantic relationships and sexuality, a new semi-structured interview method was developed as part of a larger study on the interrelatedness of love and sex (“Lovely sex or sexy love?”). The newly developed Relational and Sexual History (RSH) interview consists of five steps and is visually supported by a relationship matrix to sketch how developments in relational and sexual aspects of early intimate relationships (from adolescence to young adulthood) are interrelated, and how youth learn cumulatively (across their relationships) about what they do and do not want in their intimate partnerships.

Results

The RSH interview method was piloted in 2018 in a small-scale qualitative study with N = 16 young adults (9 women, 7 men; 18‒25 years). This pilot study showed the method is suitable to assess the chronologic, dynamic, and intertwined relational and sexual histories of youth in a semi-structured manner.

Conclusions and Policy Implications

The RSH interview method may advance scientific research on the linkages between love and sex and can be a valuable tool for clinical practice in sexology and relationship therapy (and increase cross-pollination between these clinical fields). The type of knowledge yielded by these interviews may profoundly impact policies for relational and sexual health promotion for youth.
The impact of intercostal nerve block on the necessity of a second chest x-ray in patients with penetrating trauma: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ahmadinejad Mojtaba , Shirzadi Alireza , Soltanian Ali , Ahmadinejad Izadmehr , Sootodeh Sina
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

Patients presented with penetrating trauma are immediately given an initial x-ray scan followed by the desired treatment. Intercostal nerve block in chest trauma patients is effective in pain management. The aim of this study is to investigate the need of second chest x-ray in penetrating chest trauma patients, following intercostal nerve block and evaluation of pain and other clinical parameters.

Method:

In this a randomized controlled trail, 100 patients with thoracic trauma were examined from June 2019–December 2019. All patients who entered the study underwent an intercostal nerve block by 5 mg of lidocaine. The results from normal and abnormal chest x-ray groups were compared following the block, in terms of the VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) score and hemodynamic parameters.

Result:

Among the two groups, normal second x-ray vs delayed hemopneumothorax, systolic blood pressure, rate of respiration and heart rate were not significantly at the time of admission and the time following the nerve block. However, this difference was significant in terms of visual analog scale score among the two groups.We also report that the VAS difference of more than 2.5 points has the specify of 76.5 and a sensitivity of 92.8 for the diagnosis of normal/stable patients.

Conclusions:

Intercostal nerve block reduces pain in patients who are not presented with hemopneumothorax, whereas, patients otherwise are presented with the significant pain. Second x-ray in patients with reduced pain in response to the nerve block, might not be necessarily required.

Highlights
Antarctic Geothermal Heat Flow Model: Aq1
Authors: Stål Tobias , Reading Anya M. , Halpin Jacqueline A. , Whittaker Joanne M.
Published: December 2020

We present a refined map of geothermal heat flow for Antarctica, Aq1, based on multiple observables. The map is generated using a similarity detection approach by attributing observables from geophysics and geology to a large number of high‐quality heat flow values (N = 5,792) from other continents. Observables from global, continental, and regional datasets for Antarctica are used with a weighting function that allows the degree of similarity to increase with proximity and how similar the observables are. The similarity detection parameters are optimized through cross correlation. For each grid cell in Antarctica, a weighted average heat flow value and uncertainty metrics are calculated. The Aq1 model provides higher spatial resolution in comparison to previous results. High heat flow is shown in the Thwaites Glacier region, with local values over 150 mW m−2. We also map elevated values over 80 mW m−2 in Palmer Land, Marie Byrd Land, Victoria Land and Queen Mary Land. Very low heat flow is shown in the interior of Wilkes Land and Coats Land, with values under 40 mW m−2. We anticipate that the new geothermal heat flow map, Aq1, and its uncertainty bounds will find extended use in providing boundary conditions for ice sheet modeling and understanding the interactions between the cryosphere and solid Earth. The computational framework and open architecture allow for the model to be reproduced, adapted and updated with additional data, or model subsets to be output at higher resolution for regional studies.