bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GridMol2.0: Implementation and application of linear‐scale quantum mechanics methods and molecular visualization
Authors: Zhang Baohua , Ma Yingjin , Jin Xinsheng , Wang Ying , Suo Bingbing , He Xiao , Jin Zhong
Published: September 2020

GridMol is a “one‐stop” platform for molecular structure building, scientific computing, and molecular visualization aided by a high‐performance computing environment. GridMol version 2.0 introduces two unique features: the first is fragment‐based linear‐scaling quantum chemistry methods, such as molecular fractionation with conjugate caps and fragment molecular orbital methods; the second is that GridMol enables users to visualize molecular geometries along a geometry optimization and an intrinsic reaction coordinate calculation. Compared with version 1.0, fragment‐based linear‐scaling quantum chemistry methods implemented in GridMol version 2.0 can be used as a useful tool for performing quantum calculations for large molecular systems to explore the mechanisms involved in protein‐ligand or targeted drug interactions.
Rapid quantitative screening of cyanobacteria for production of anatoxins using direct analysis in real time high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Beach Daniel G. , Rafuse Cheryl , Melanson Jeremy E. , McCarron Pearse
Published: September 2020

Rationale

Anatoxins (ATXs) are a potent class of cyanobacterial neurotoxins that are increasingly problematic in drinking water reservoirs and recreational water bodies worldwide. Because of their high polarity and low molecular weight, analysis of ATXs is challenging and they can be considered underreported compared with other classes of cyanobacterial toxins. Improved screening methods are therefore needed to effectively assess their occurrence and concentrations in the environment.

Methods

A rapid screening method was developed for ATXs in cyanobacteria using direct analysis in real time combined with high‐resolution mass spectrometry (DART‐HRMS), requiring less than 2 min per sample for triplicate analysis. The developed method was evaluated for its quantitative capabilities, applied to the screening of 30 cyanobacterial culture samples for the presence of anatoxin‐a, homoanatoxin‐a and dihydroanatoxin‐a, and compared with a more typical liquid chromatography (LC)/HRMS method.

Results

Excellent linearity was observed in the analysis of a matrix‐matched calibration curve using DART‐HRMS, with ionization suppression of about 50% and relative standard deviations between replicate analyses of approximately 30%. Limits of detection for both anatoxin‐a and homoanatoxin‐a were estimated as 1 ng/mL. Excellent agreement was observed between DART‐HRMS and LC/HRMS with all ATX‐producing cultures correctly identified and only one false positive culture by DART‐HRMS.

Conclusions

DART‐HRMS shows excellent promise for the rapid, quantitative screening of ATXs in cyanobacteria and could be expanded in the future to include the analysis of field samples and drinking water, as well as additional ATX analogues.
Tracheobronchial rhinosporidiosis: an uncommon life‐threatening benign cause of airway obstruction
Authors: Sarkar Nirmal Kanti , Mia Md. Mofizur Rahman , Hasan Md. Rejaul
Published: September 2020

Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic granulomatous infectious disease caused by Mesomycetozoea Rhinosporidium seeberi. This highly recurrent polypoid lesion has a predilection for the nose and nasopharynx, although other organ systems may be affected. Involvement of the tracheobronchial tree is very rare, and poses a challenge for diagnosis and management. In this report, we present a 30‐year‐old man with a history of recurrent nasal polyp who presented with cough, shortness of breath, haemoptysis, and a radiological feature of right lung collapse on imaging. He was diagnosed with rhinosporidiosis based on histopathological examination of bronchoscopic biopsy specimen taken from the right principal bronchial mass. Shortly after hospitalization, he developed acute respiratory distress requiring emergency bronchoscopic intervention. A pinkish mulberry‐like tracheal and right bronchial mass was removed endoscopically with cauterization of the base of the lesion. On long‐term follow‐up, the patient was free of symptoms without recurrence of airway disease.
Phytostabilization of store‐and‐release cover made with phosphate mine wastes in arid and semiarid climate using wild local plants
Authors: Hamza Zine , Rachid Hakkou , Mariam El Adnani , Kamal Lamnai , Sara Elgadi , Rachid Ait B. , Laila Midhat , Papazoglou Eleni G. , Kenza Loutfi , Mohamed Hafidi , Abdelaziz Smouni , Ahmed Ouhammou
Published: September 2020

To limit the generation of acid mine drainage at the Kettara abandoned mine (KAM) located 35 km North‐North West of Marrakech, Morocco, a store‐and‐release (SR) system was constructed. The SR system made of two materials, the cover constituted by phosphate waste (PW) rock and lower layer was the coarse‐grained tailings of KAM. The lower layer restricted water in the interface and the stocked water during wet periods by the PW layer is released during dry ones. The objective of this study is to assess the phytostabilization ability of SR cover using local plants. Seeds of five wild local plants:Atriplex semibaccataR. Br.,Peganum harmalaL.,Asparagus horridusL.,Launaea arborescens(Batt.) Murb., andVicia sativaL., were selected and planted. Pots experiment of phosphate mine wastes (PW) and PW amended with different ratios of compost and commercial peat. These pot experiments were performed in greenhouse conditions. The germination and growth parameters studied were germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), speed of germination (SG), epigeal height, and hypogeal length evolution. Cd, Ni, As, Cu, and Zn concentrations in substrates and in plant fractions were analyzed. The results obtained using 100% PW (PW100) as the highest GP (87.50%) were obtained forA. semibaccataR. Br., followed byV. sativaL. with GP (25.00%). The uppermost MGT results showed thatA. semibaccataR. Br. (MGT = 4.39) andL. arborescens(Batt.) Murb. (MGT = 1.91), were the most suitable for the phosphate mine wastes. Concerning SG, the values obtained were 19.07 and 5.11, forA. semibaccataR. Br., andL. arborescens(Batt.) Murb., respectively. Regarding the epigeal and hypogeal length, respectively, the best values were obtained forA. semibaccataR. Br., andV. sativaL., with 40.70 cm and 13.73 cm for epigeal length and 20.97 cm and 82.67 cm for hypogeal length. The results obtained with different ratios of amendments showed that the application of 10% compost and 20% organic fertilizer, showed significantly higher germination index, hypogeal, and epigeal growth forA. semibaccataR. Br.,V. sativaL., andL. arborescens(Batt.) Murb. The concentrations of the studied trace elements in selected plant fractions does not exceed domestic animal metal toxicity limits in any trial. The concentrations of these trace elements in plant hypogeal fractions were significantly (p < .05) higher than those of epigeal fractions. The transfer and bio‐concentration factors were <1 in all selected plants. According to these results, we can affirm thatA. semibaccataR. Br., as a key species and thatV. sativaL. andL. arborescens(Batt.) Murb. are also good candidates for the phytostabilization necessary for the SR cover.
Property sustainable value versus highest and best use analyzes
Authors: Walacik Marek , Renigier‐Biłozor Małgorzata , Chmielewska Aneta , Janowski Artur
Published: September 2020

Sustainable development of all the urban environment elements (including properties) is a very information requiring decision making process that absorbs data from many different fields. Since economic aspects of that kind of development are one the fundaments of the concept, property assessment procedures quite often support sustainable development. The current market value definition interpretation provided by valuation standards of international rage (EVS, IVS) and highest and best use of property (H&BU) have also become widely discussed and troublesome issues. The discussion is vital due to the fact of H&BU consideration in wider context, including sustainable development and sustainable value. The authors in order to improve clarity of the paper proposed a definition of sustainable value. The use of modified methods of sensitivity and scenario combined analysis as a solution enabling sustainable value quantification with the use of H&BU property assessment theory and practice was proposed. The obtained sustainable value coefficient, determined according to proposed methodology, enabled consideration of all the highest and best use tests. Additionally, it enabled consideration of sustainability context. It was described by maximal productivity of property strongly correlated with socio‐economic and socio‐cultural phenomena.

Highlights

The concept of sustainable development involves much more than the “green” issue, thus can create an added value for real estate analysis (especially based on “highest and best use” assumptions).

Even though the “highest and best use” notion has been defined its' interpretation causes many ambiguities and problems.

“Highest value” is a condition that requires taking into account all the circumstances (physical, legal, financial and productivity) with maximum: return rate/developed area/increase of build‐up area.

Maximal productivity in highest and best use context means directly not to give any decreases in sustainable value or/and give possibility to increases the sustainable value in the future.

“Sustainable value” can reflect not only economic issues (reflected directly by property value) but can exceed its' meaning to a broader sense including sustainable development issues (social, political, environmental directions) at the same level.
Two‐stage randomized trial design for testing treatment, preference, and self‐selection effects for count outcomes
Authors: Shi Yu , Cameron Briana , Gu Xian , Kane Michael , Peduzzi Peter , Esserman Denise A.
Published: September 2020

While the traditional clinical trial design lays emphasis on testing the treatment effect between randomly assigned groups, it ignores the role of patient preference for a particular treatment in the trial. Yet, for healthcare providers who seek to optimize the patient‐centered treatment strategy, the evaluation of a patient's psychology toward each treatment could be a key consideration. The two‐stage randomized trial design allows researchers to test patient's preference and selection effects, in addition to the treatment effect. The current methodology for the two‐stage design is limited to continuous and binary outcomes; this article extends the model to include count outcomes. The test statistics for preference, selection, and treatment effects are derived. Closed‐form sample size formulae are presented for each effect. Simulations are presented to demonstrate the properties of the unstratified and stratified designs. Finally, we apply methods to the use of antimicrobials at the end of life to demonstrate the applicability of the methods.
On the impact of residential history in the spatial analysis of diseases with a long latency period: A study of mesothelioma in Belgium
Authors: Petrof Oana , Neyens Thomas , Nuyts Valerie , Nackaerts Kristiaan , Nemery Benoit , Faes Christel
Published: September 2020

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Belgium has a known long history of asbestos production, resulting in one of the highest mesothelioma mortality rates worldwide. While the production of asbestos has stopped completely, the long latency period of mesothelioma, which can fluctuate between 20 and 40 years after exposure, causes incidences still to be frequent. Mesothelioma's long incubation time affects our assessment of its geographical distribution as well. Since patients' residential locations are likely to change a number of times throughout their lives, the location where the patients develop the disease is often far from the location where they were exposed to asbestos. Using the residential history of patients, we propose the use of a convolution multiple membership model (MMM), which includes both a spatial conditional autoregressive and an unstructured random effect. Pancreatic cancer patients are used as a control population, reflecting the population at risk for mesothelioma. Results show the impact of the residential mobility on the geographical risk estimation, as well as the importance of acknowledging the latency period of a disease. A simulation study was conducted to investigate the properties of the convolution MMM. The robustness of the results for the convolution MMM is assessed via a sensitivity analysis.
High‐Fidelity Determination and Tracing of Small Extracellular Vesicle Cargoes
Authors: Chen Xiaohui , Jia Mei , Liu Lianhua , Qiu Xiaopei , Zhang Hong , Yu Xingle , Gu Wei , Qing Guangchao , Li Qingmei , Hu Xiaolin , Wang Ruixuan , Zhao Xianxian , Zhang Liangliang , Wang Xianfeng , Durkan Colm , Wang Nan , Wang Guixue , Luo Yang
Published: September 2020

Direct tracing of small extracellular vesicle (sEV) cargoes holds unprecedented importance for elucidating the mechanisms involved in intercellular communication. However, high‐fidelity determination of sEVs’ molecular cargoes in situ has yet to be achieved due to the difficulty in transporting molecular probes into intact sEVs. Herein, a fLuorescent Intracellular‐Guided Hairpin‐Tetrahedron (fLIGHT) nanoprobe is described for direct visualization of sEV microRNAs in situ. Integrating the advantages of nondestructive sEV penetration via DNA origami and single‐nucleotide discrimination as well as wash‐free fluorescence readout using a hairpin probe, the proposed approach enables high‐fidelity fluorescence visualization of sEVs’ microRNA without RNA extraction or leakage, demonstrating the potential of on‐site tracing of sEV cargoes. This strategy opens an avenue to establishing universal molecular detection and labeling platforms that can facilitate both sEV‐derived fundamental biological studies and molecular diagnostics.
Scalable Design of Two‐Dimensional Oxide Nanosheets for Construction of Ultrathin Multilayer Nanocapacitor
Authors: Khan Muhammad Shuaib , Kim Hyung‐Jun , Kim Yoon‐Hyun , Ebina Yasuo , Sugimoto Wataru , Sasaki Takayoshi , Osada Minoru
Published: September 2020

Large size of capacitors is the main hurdle in miniaturization of current electronic devices. Herein, a scalable solution‐based layer‐by‐layer engineering of metallic and high‐κ dielectric nanosheets into multilayer nanosheet capacitors (MNCs) with overall thickness of ≈20 nm is presented. The MNCs are built through neat tiling of 2D metallic Ru0.95O20.2− and high‐κ dielectric Ca2NaNb4O13− nanosheets via the Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) approach at room temperature which is verified by cross‐sectional high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The resultant MNCs demonstrate a high capacitance of 40–52 µF cm−2 and low leakage currents down to 10−5–10−6 A cm−2. Such MNCs also possess complimentary in situ robust dielectric properties under high‐temperature measurements up to 250 °C. Based on capacitance normalized by the thickness, the developed MNC outperforms state‐of‐the‐art multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCC, ≈22 µF cm−2/5 × 104 nm) present in the market. The strategy is effective due to the advantages of facile, economical, and ambient temperature solution assembly.
Determination of α(Mz) from an hyperasymptotic approximation to the energy of a static quark-antiquark pair
Authors: Ayala Cesar , Lobregat Xabier , Pineda Antonio
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We give the hyperasymptotic expansion of the energy of a static quark-antiquark pair with a precision that includes the effects of the subleading renormalon. The terminants associated to the first and second renormalon are incorporated in the analysis when necessary. In particular, we determine the normalization of the leading renormalon of the force and, consequently, of the subleading renormalon of the static potential. We obtain $$ {Z}_3^F $$

Z
3
F

(nf = 3) = $$ 2{Z}_3^V $$
2

Z
3
V

(nf = 3) = 0.37(17). The precision we reach in strict perturbation theory is next-to-next-to-next-to-leading logarithmic resummed order both for the static potential and for the force. We find that the resummation of large logarithms and the inclusion of the leading terminants associated to the renormalons are compulsory to get accurate determinations of $$ {\Lambda}_{\overline{\mathrm{MS}}} $$

Λ

MS
¯

when fitting to short-distance lattice data of the static energy. We obtain $$ {\Lambda}_{\overline{\mathrm{MS}}}^{\left({n}_f=3\right)} $$

Λ

MS
¯

n
f

=
3

= 338(12) MeV and α(Mz) = 0.1181(9). We have also MS found strong consistency checks that the ultrasoft correction to the static energy can be computed at weak coupling in the energy range we have studied.
Psychosocial determinants of sexual norms and their impact on sexual debut in Polish adolescents
Authors: Izdebski Zbigniew , Wąż Krzysztof , Kowalewska Anna , Mazur Joanna
Published: September 2020

Objectives

In an attempt to describe composite scales relating to sexual norms, we present their structure, psychosocial determinants, and the association with adolescent sexual initiation.

Methods

A representative sample of Polish students was surveyed in 2015 (n = 1024, mean age 17.8 ± 0.31). Three scales of sexual norms were identified using principal component analysis. Logistic regression and path models were applied.

Results

The scales concerning stereotype gender norms, as well as restrictive and permissive sexual norms, were developed. Restrictive norms lead to later sexual initiation and were more frequent in combination with love for the first partner. The variability of all the indices was significantly correlated with the peer environment. A number of direct and indirect paths were found among the above indices, family relationships (support, communication), and socio-emotional strengths, such as the meaning of life, coherence, and self-esteem.

Conclusions

The norms of sexual morality should be included in the analysis of the determinants of adolescent sexual behaviours along with an investigation of complex causal models. The results may contribute to improvement in sexual health promotion.
Effect of the caries-protective self-assembling peptide P11-4 on shear bond strength of metal brackets
Authors: Knaup Thomas , Korbmacher-Steiner Heike , Jablonski-Momeni Anahita
Published: September 2020

Purpose

During orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances, demineralization around brackets often occurs. The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of the caries-protective self-assembling peptide P11‑4 (SAP P11-4) on the shear bond strength of metal brackets.

Methods

In all, 45 extracted human wisdom teeth were available for the study. The teeth were randomly divided into 3 groups (each n = 15) and pretreated as follows: test group 1: application of SAP P11‑4 (Curodont Repair, Windisch, Switzerland) and storage for 24 h in artificial saliva; test group 2: application of SAP P11‑4; control group: no pretreatment with SAP P11‑4. A conventional metal maxillary incisor bracket (Discovery, Dentaurum, Ispringen) was adhesively bonded to each buccal surface. The shear bond strength was tested according to DIN 13990. After shearing, the Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was determined microscopically (10 × magnification). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to check the groups for significant differences (α = 0.05). The distribution of the ARI scores was determined with the χ 2 test.

Results

There was no significant difference in shear forces between the groups (p = 0.121): test group 1 = 17.0 ± 4.51 MPa, test group 2 = 14.01 ± 2.51 MPa, control group 15.54 ± 4.34 MPa. The distribution of the ARI scores between the groups did not vary (p-values = 0.052–0.819).

Conclusion

The application of the caries protective SAP P11‑4 before bonding of brackets did not affect the shear bond strength. Therefore, pretreatment of the enamel surface with SAP P11‑4 shortly before bracket insertion can be considered.
Einschätzungen zur Prävalenz mikrovaskulärer Folgeerkrankungen bei Diabetes mellitus in Deutschland. Analyse von Versichertendaten aller gesetzlichen Krankenkassen für die Jahre 2012 und 2013
Authors: Reitzle Lukas , Schmidt Christian , Du Yong , Icks Andrea , Hagen Bernd , Ziese Thomas , Scheidt-Nave Christa
Published: September 2020

Hintergrund

Datengrundlagen für systematische, fortlaufende Analysen zur Häufigkeit mikrovaskulärer Komplikationen von Diabetes mellitus in Deutschland sind bislang nur begrenzt vorhanden. Erstmals wurde geprüft, ob Versichertendaten aller gesetzlichen Krankenversicherungen (GKV) nach Datentransparenzverordnung hierfür geeignet sind.

Methode

Analysiert wurden die GKV-Versichertendaten der Berichtsjahre 2012 und 2013. Die Bezugspopulation wurde identifiziert: Versicherte mit Diabetes, definiert als Dokumentation mindestens zweier ambulanter oder einer stationären Diabetesdiagnose gemäß der Internationalen Klassifikation der Krankheiten (ICD-Codes E10–E14). Komplikationen wurden anhand folgender ICD-Codes definiert: Nephropathie (N08.3), Retinopathie (H36.0), Polyneuropathie (G63.2), diabetisches Fußsyndrom (DFS; E10-14.74, E10-14.75), chronische Niereninsuffizienz (N18.-) und Dialysebehandlung (Z49.1, Z49.2, Z99.2). Die Ergebnisse wurden mit Prävalenzschätzungen aus Routine- und Registerdaten in Deutschland und im Ausland verglichen.

Ergebnisse

Im Jahr 2013 wurde für 6,6 Mio. GKV-Versicherte ein Diabetes dokumentiert (2012: 6,5 Mio.). Die chronische Niereninsuffizienz stellte die häufigste Komplikation im Jahr 2013 dar (15,0 %), gefolgt von diabetischer Polyneuropathie (13,5 %), Nephropathie (7,6 %), Retinopathie (7,0 %), DFS (6,1 %) und Dialysebehandlung (0,56 %). Während Ergebnisse zu diabetischer Retinopathie, Nephropathie und Polyneuropathie im Vergleich zu anderen Prävalenzschätzungen für Personen mit Typ-2-Diabetes niedriger ausfielen, sind diese zu Niereninsuffizienz, Dialysebehandlung und DFS vergleichbar.

Schlussfolgerung

Verstetigte Analysen der GKV-Daten sind von hohem Wert für die Diabetes-Surveillance, erfordern jedoch vertiefende Analysen zur Überprüfung und Vereinheitlichung von Falldefinitionen und Dokumentationsverhalten.
Vitamin-B12-Mangel im Neugeborenen- und Säuglingsalter – Ursachen, Früherkennung, Diagnostik und Vorstellung eines primär oralen Behandlungsschemas
Authors: Gramer Gwendolyn , Hoffmann Georg F.
Published: September 2020

Hintergrund

Ein Vitamin‑B12-Mangel ist bei Neugeborenen meist bedingt durch einen mütterlichen Vitamin‑B12-Mangel. Beim Kind führt ein schwerer, unerkannter Vitamin‑B12-Mangel zu irreversiblen neurologischen Schädigungen und einer dauerhaften Entwicklungsstörung, die meist erst im zweiten Lebenshalbjahr klinisch erkannt wird. Eine Früherkennung durch das Neugeborenenscreening wird derzeit in Pilotprojekten evaluiert.

Fragestellung

Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über mögliche Ursachen eines Vitamin‑B12-Mangels und präsentiert erfolgreiche Ansätze zur Früherkennung durch das Neugeborenenscreening sowie Empfehlungen zur Diagnostik bei Mutter und Kind. Für die Behandlung des Vitamin‑B12-Mangels im Neugeborenen- und Säuglingsalter wird bislang häufig zunächst eine intramuskuläre Applikation von Vitamin B12 verwendet. Als Alternative wird von den Autoren ein ausschließlich orales Supplementationsschema mit Vitamin B12 vorgestellt.

Ergebnisse

Im Rahmen des Pilotprojektes „Neugeborenenscreening 2020“ am Screeningzentrum Heidelberg wurde für die Behandlung von Kindern mit Vitamin‑B12-Mangel nach Detektion über das Neugeborenenscreening ein standardisiertes ausschließlich orales Supplementationsschema mit Vitamin B12 entwickelt und erfolgreich angewendet. Dieses besteht in der Verabreichung von Vitamin B12 0,5 mg/Tag p.o. über 3 Tage in Form eines Flüssigpräparates, gefolgt von 0,1 mg/Tag p.o. Über die erste Woche erfolgt zusätzlich die Gabe von 0,4 mg Folsäure pro Tag p.o. Nach Normalisierung aller Parameter des Vitamin‑B12-Haushaltes (einschließlich der funktionellen Marker Homozystein und Methylmalonsäure) erfolgt während der Stillzeit eine Vitamin‑B12-Supplementation in Erhaltungsdosis von 5 µg/Tag p.o. bis zur sicheren Einführung fleischhaltiger Beikost bzw. von Vitamin‑B12-haltiger Nahrung.

Schlussfolgerung

Das hier dargestellte rein orale Behandlungsschema für den Vitamin‑B12-Mangel stellt eine effektive, kostengünstige, schmerzlose und damit besonders kinderfreundliche Behandlung dar.
Impact of storage on sensory quality of blackcurrant juices prepared with or without enzymatic treatment at industrial scale
Authors: Laaksonen Oskar , Mäkilä Leenamaija , Jokinen Mika , Metz Tapio , Kallio Heikki , Yang Baoru
Published: September 2020

Blackcurrant juices prepared with or without enzyme treatment at industrial scale were stored at room temperature or + 4 °C for 1 year, and their sensory profiles, chemical composition and rheological properties were investigated. The juice without enzyme treatment had less intense colour and it was perceived and measured as more viscose than the juice produced with enzyme assistance. Content of monomeric anthocyanins decreased significantly during storage in both juice types under both storing conditions. However, changes in colour intensity were observed only in the non-enzymatic juices. In the discrimination tests based on the appearance, the stored samples were detected as significantly different. Storage resulted in significant changes in contents of hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonols, but this did not have an impact on the bitterness or astringency of the juices. Moreover, sugar and acid contents were mainly unchanged during storage. Storage resulted in a decrease in dynamic viscosity and greater differences in viscoelastic properties for the juice with enzymatic assistance. This study provides important information about the stability of juices typically stored at room temperature for a long time.
Effect of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator Enobosarm on Bone Healing in a Rat Model for Aged Male Osteoporosis
Authors: Komrakova Marina , Nagel Janek , Hoffmann Daniel Bernd , Lehmann Wolfgang , Schilling Arndt Friedrich , Sehmisch Stephan
Published: September 2020

Enobosarm (ostarine, MK-2866, or GTx-024) is a non-steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator. This study evaluated the effect of various regimens of enobosarm (EN) on bone healing in an orchiectomized rat model for aged male osteoporosis and compared it to testosterone (T) treatment. Ninety eight-month-old male Sprague Dawley rats were either orchiectomized (Orx) or left intact (Non-Orx) and divided into groups (n = 15/group): (1) Non-Orx; (2) Orx; (3) Orx+T-th; (4) Orx+EN-th; (5) Orx+T-pr; and (6) Orx+EN-pr. Prophylaxis (Pr) treatments were applied immediately after Orx for up to 18 weeks. Therapy (Th) treatments were applied 12 weeks after Orx for up to 6 weeks. Bilateral tibia osteotomy with plate osteosynthesis was performed 12 weeks after Orx in all groups. EN and T were mixed with the diet; the daily dosage was 0.35 ± 0.06 and 41 ± 8 mg/kg BW, respectively. Both T treatments improved bone healing by increasing callus volume and area, bone volume and density, and cortical width; they had no effect on prostate or levator ani weight. EN-pr increased the callus area and callus density and decreased cortical density, but increased prostate weight. The effect of T-pr and T-th on bone was stronger than EN-pr. EN-th affected bone healing negatively by reducing callus density and area and delaying osteotomy bridging. Levator ani weight was increased in both EN groups. EN treatment after fracture is not advisable in aged males. EN-pr treatment as a therapy for bone healing in men could be further investigated; endocrinological side effects must be closely monitored.
The Cardiovascular Stress Response as Early Life Marker of Cardiovascular Health: Applications in Population-Based Pediatric Studies—A Narrative Review
Authors: Bongers-Karmaoui Meddy N. , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Roest Arno A. W. , Gaillard Romy
Published: September 2020

Stress inducement by physical exercise requires major cardiovascular adaptations in both adults and children to maintain an adequate perfusion of the body. As physical exercise causes a stress situation for the cardiovascular system, cardiovascular exercise stress tests are widely used in clinical practice to reveal subtle cardiovascular pathology in adult and childhood populations with cardiac and cardiovascular diseases. Recently, evidence from small studies suggests that the cardiovascular stress response can also be used within research settings to provide novel insights on subtle differences in cardiovascular health in non-diseased adults and children, as even among healthy populations an abnormal response to physical exercise is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. This narrative review is specifically focused on the possibilities of using the cardiovascular stress response to exercise combined with advanced imaging techniques in pediatric population-based studies focused on the early origins of cardiovascular diseases. We discuss the physiology of the cardiovascular stress response to exercise, the type of physical exercise used to induce the cardiovascular stress response in combination with advanced imaging techniques, the obtained measurements with advanced imaging techniques during the cardiovascular exercise stress test and their associations with cardiovascular health outcomes. Finally, we discuss the potential for cardiovascular exercise stress tests to use in pediatric population-based studies focused on the early origins of cardiovascular diseases.
Classification of negative and positive 18F-florbetapir brain PET studies in subjective cognitive decline patients using a convolutional neural network
Authors: de Vries Bart Marius , Golla Sandeep S. V. , Ebenau Jarith , Verfaillie Sander C. J. , Timmers Tessa , Heeman Fiona , Cysouw Matthijs C. F. , van Berckel Bart N. M. , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Yaqub Maqsood , Boellaard Ronald ,   Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Visual reading of 18F-florbetapir positron emission tomography (PET) scans is used in the diagnostic process of patients with cognitive disorders for assessment of amyloid-ß (Aß) depositions. However, this can be time-consuming, and difficult in case of borderline amyloid pathology. Computer-aided pattern recognition can be helpful in this process but needs to be validated. The aim of this work was to develop, train, validate and test a convolutional neural network (CNN) for discriminating between Aß negative and positive 18F-florbetapir PET scans in patients with subjective cognitive decline (SCD).

Methods

18F-florbetapir PET images were acquired and visually assessed. The SCD cohort consisted of 133 patients from the SCIENCe cohort and 22 patients from the ADNI database. From the SCIENCe cohort, standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) images were computed. From the ADNI database, SUVR images were extracted. 2D CNNs (axial, coronal and sagittal) were built to capture features of the scans. The SCIENCe scans were randomly divided into training and validation set (5-fold cross-validation), and the ADNI scans were used as test set. Performance was evaluated based on average accuracy, sensitivity and specificity from the cross-validation. Next, the best performing CNN was evaluated on the test set.

Results

The sagittal 2D-CNN classified the SCIENCe scans with the highest average accuracy of 99% ± 2 (SD), sensitivity of 97% ± 7 and specificity of 100%. The ADNI scans were classified with a 95% accuracy, 100% sensitivity and 92.3% specificity.

Conclusion

The 2D-CNN algorithm can classify Aß negative and positive 18F-florbetapir PET scans with high performance in SCD patients.
Klinische Stadienmodelle in der Früherkennung und -behandlung der Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung
Authors: Seiffert Nora , Cavelti Marialuisa , Kaess Michael
Published: September 2020

Hintergrund

Die Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung (BPS) ist eine schwere psychische Störung, die typischerweise erstmals in der Adoleszenz auftritt und mit einem hohen Leidensdruck, schweren psychosozialen Defiziten bei Betroffenen sowie hohen Kosten für die Gesellschaft verbunden ist. Die Früherkennung und -intervention der BPS haben zum Ziel, die negativen Auswirkungen der Störung frühzeitig zu reduzieren oder zu verhindern und dadurch die Lebensläufe der betroffenen Jugendlichen positiv zu beeinflussen. Klinische Stadienmodelle bieten Orientierung bei der Auswahl einer geeigneten Intervention entsprechend dem aktuellen Krankheitsstadium.

Ziel der Arbeit

In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird das Rationale klinischer Stadienmodelle erläutert. Bestehende Stadienmodelle der BPS werden vorgestellt und diskutiert.

Material und Methoden

Kritische Reflexion vorhandener Forschungsliteratur.

Ergebnisse

Bisher wurden 2 Stadienmodelle der BPS vorgeschlagen, das erste Modell aus dem Jahr 2016 gemeinsam für die BPS und die affektiven Störungen, das neuere, darauf aufbauende Modell aus dem Jahr 2019 mit höherer Spezifität und Fokus auf die Entwicklung von Persönlichkeitsstörungen und sich daraus ergebenden Schwierigkeiten.

Diskussion

Die vorgestellten klinischen Stadienmodelle der BPS bieten Orientierung bei der Beschreibung des typischen Krankheitsverlaufs sowie der Auswahl einer geeigneten Intervention, insbesondere in frühen Krankheitsstadien, da sie dabei helfen können, frühe, unspezifische Anzeichen einer sich entwickelnden Störung wahrzunehmen und eine geeignete Behandlung einzuleiten. Mit weiteren Erkenntnissen über die Entwicklung der BPS und effektive Interventionen können Stadienmodelle in der Zukunft weiter verbessert werden.
Das modifizierte Treat-and-Extend-Schema mit Injektionsblöcken in der IVOM-Therapie
Authors: Take Patricia , Dittmann Carolin Alisa , Mackerodt Laura , Callizo Josep , Striebe Nina-Antonia , Hoerauf Hans , Feltgen Nicolas , Bemme Sebastian
Published: September 2020

Hintergrund

Die regelmäßige Therapie mittels intravitrealer operativer Medikamentenapplikation (IVOM) und die damit verbundenen Kontrolluntersuchungen stellen für viele Patienten eine große Herausforderung dar, die bis zum Behandlungsabbruch führen kann. Das modifizierte blockweise Treat-and-Extend(TAE)-Schema verfolgt das Ziel, mit möglichst wenigen Kontrollvisiten stabile Netzhaut- und Visusbefunde zu erreichen und dadurch die Belastung der Patienten zu minimieren.

Methoden

Diese monozentrische retrospektive Studie untersuchte Behandlungsverläufe von insgesamt 387 Patienten mit neovaskulärer altersbedingter Makuladegeneration (AMD), diabetischem Makulaödem (DMÖ), Venenastverschluss (VAV) und Zentralvenenverschluss (ZVV), bei denen das TAE-Regime jeweils in 3er-Blöcken angewendet wurde. Primärer Endpunkt war das Erreichen eines Injektionsintervalls von 12 Wochen.

Ergebnisse

Durch die blockweise applizierte IVOM konnte die Netzhautdicke signifikant reduziert und der Visus verbessert werden. Über die verschiedenen Indikationen konnte im Mittel ein Behandlungsintervall von 2 Monaten erreicht werden.

Schlussfolgerung

Ein in 3er-Blöcken angepasstes TAE-Schema im Rahmen der IVOM kann bei reduzierter Patientenbelastung zu stabilen Netzhaut- und Visusbefunden führen.
Experimental investigations on the sharp leading-edge separation over a flat plate at zero incidence using particle image velocimetry
Authors: Fujiwara K. , Sriram R. , Kontis K.
Published: September 2020

Leading-edge separated flow field over a sharp flat plate is experimentally investigated in Reynolds numbers ranging from 6.2 × 103 to 4.1 × 104, using particle image velocimetry (PIV) and its statistics. It was observed that the average reattachment length is nearly independent of Reynolds number and the small secondary bubble observed near the leading edge was found to shrink with increasing Reynolds number. The wall-normal profiles of the statistical values of kinematic quantities such as the velocity components and their fluctuations scaled well with average reattachment length lR and freestream velocity U∞. Their magnitudes compare well with previous investigations even though the current triangular shaped sharp leading edge is different from previous flat-faced or semi-circular ones. The shear layer was observed to exhibit 2 different linear growth rates over 2 distinct regions. Instantaneous PIV realizations demonstrate unsteady nature of the separation bubble, whose origins in the upstream portion of the bubble are analysed. Bimodal nature of the probability density function (PDF) of fluctuating streamwise velocity at around x/lR = 0.08–0.15 indicates successive generation and passage of vortices in the region, which subsequently interact and evolve into multiscale turbulent field exhibiting nearly Gaussian PDF. Shedding of vortices with wide range of scales are apparent in most of the instantaneous realizations. Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) of the velocity fluctuation magnitude field revealed that the flow structures of the dominant modes and their relative energies are independent of Reynolds number. In each of the dominant modes (first 3 modes), the length scales corresponding to the large scale structures and their spacing are the same for all Reynolds numbers, suggesting that their Strouhal number (observed to be ~ 0.09–0.2 at Reynolds number of 6.2 × 103) of unsteadiness should also be independent of Reynolds number. A single large structure- comparable in size to lR—was apparent well before reattachment in a few instantaneous realizations, as compared to multiple small-scale structures visible in most realizations; at Reynolds number of 6.2 × 103, realizations with such large-scale structures occurred approximately after every 20–30 realizations, corresponding to non-dimensional frequency of 0.4–0.6, which is identified to be the “regular shedding”. It was possible to reconstruct the large-scale structure during the instances from just the first 3 POD modes, indicating that the Strouhal number of regular shedding too is independent of Reynolds number.

Graphic abstract
Long-term safety of paclitaxel drug-coated balloon-only angioplasty for de novo coronary artery disease: the SPARTAN DCB study
Authors: Merinopoulos Ioannis , Gunawardena Tharusha , Wickramarachchi Upul , Richardson Paul , Maart Clint , Sreekumar Sulfi , Sawh Chris , Wistow Trevor , Sarev Toomas , Ryding Alisdair , Gilbert Tim , Perperoglou Aris , Vassiliou Vassilios S. , Eccleshall Simon C.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

We aimed to investigate long-term survival of paclitaxel DCB for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

Safety concerns have been raised over the use of paclitaxel devices for peripheral artery disease recently, following a meta-analysis suggesting increased late mortality. With regard to drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty for coronary artery intervention however, there is limited data to date regarding possible late mortality relating to paclitaxel.

Methods

We compared all-cause mortality of patients treated with paclitaxel DCB to those with non-paclitaxel second-generation drug-eluting stents (DES) for stable, de novo coronary artery disease from 1st January 2011 till 31st December 2018. To have homogenous groups allowing data on safety to be interpreted accurately, we excluded patients with previous PCI and patients treated with a combination of both DCB and DES in subsequent PCIs. Data were analysed with Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression statistical models.

Results

We present 1517 patients; 429 treated with paclitaxel DCB and 1088 treated with DES. On univariate analysis, age, hypercholesterolaemia, hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, prior myocardial infarction, heart failure, smoking, atrial fibrillation, decreasing estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) [and renal failure (eGFR < 45)] were associated with worse survival. DCB intervention showed a non-significant trend towards better prognosis compared to DES (p = 0.08). On multivariable analysis age, decreasing eGFR and smoking associated with worse prognosis.

Conclusion

We found no evidence of late mortality associated with DCB angioplasty compared with non-paclitaxel second-generation DES in up to 5 years follow-up. DCB is a safe option for the treatment of de novo coronary artery disease.
Choroidal evaluation in patients under alpha-lytic therapy
Authors: De Bernardo Maddalena , Altieri Vincenzo , Coppola Alessia , Gioia Marco , Rosa Nicola
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To detect any choroidal thickness (CT) change in patients after alpha-lytic drugs withdrawal that could help in the cataract surgery timing decision.

Methods

Twenty-five eyes of 25 patients (mean age: 76 ± 7 years) under alpha-lytic therapy, and 25 eyes of 25 control subjects (CS) (mean age: 75 ± 7 years) without alpha-lytic therapy, both scheduled for cataract surgery in the fellow eye, were included in this observational, prospective, non-randomized study. All patients underwent EDI-OCT during the first preoperative visit and approximately 1 month (range 28–31 days) after alpha-lytic withdrawal. In the CS group, the OCT during preoperative visit and approximately 1 month after (range 28–31 days) the first examination was performed. Data normality with Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was checked and statistical evaluation with the Wilcoxon-signed rank test was performed.

Results

The mean subfoveal CT was 224 ± 79.7 μm during therapy and 217 ± 70.4 μm after withdrawal; 1.5 mm nasally from the fovea CT was 198 ± 83.8 μm and 194 ± 82.8 μm, respectively; and 1.5 mm temporally from the fovea CT was 217 ± 55.9 μm and 205 ± 54.4 μm, respectively. A statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in all the 3 measured CT points was found. In the CS no significant changes were detected (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

No severe floppy iris syndrome was detected at the time of surgery. In these patients, CT decrease could be an important sign for cataract surgery timing decision.
Water immersion methods do not alter muscle damage and inflammation biomarkers after high-intensity sprinting and jumping exercise
Authors: Ahokas E. K. , Kyröläinen H. , Mero A. A. , Walker S. , Hanstock H. G. , Ihalainen J. K.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of three water immersion interventions performed after active recovery compared to active recovery only on the resolution of inflammation and markers of muscle damage post-exercise.

Methods

Nine physically active men (n = 9; age 20‒35 years) performed an intensive loading protocol, including maximal jumps and sprinting on four occasions. After each trial, one of three recovery interventions (10 min duration) was used in a random order: cold-water immersion (CWI, 10 °C), thermoneutral water immersion (TWI, 24 °C), contrast water therapy (CWT, alternately 10 °C and 38 °C). All of these methods were performed after an active recovery (10 min bicycle ergometer), and were compared to active recovery only (ACT). 5 min, 1, 24, 48, and 96 h after exercise bouts, immune response and recovery were assessed through leukocyte subsets, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, myoglobin and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentrations.

Results

Significant changes in all blood markers occurred at post-loading (p < 0.05), but there were no significant differences observed in the recovery between methods. However, retrospective analysis revealed significant trial-order effects for myoglobin and neutrophils (p < 0.01). Only lymphocytes displayed satisfactory reliability in the exercise response, with intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.5.

Conclusions

The recovery methods did not affect the resolution of inflammatory and immune responses after high-intensity sprinting and jumping exercise. It is notable that the biomarker responses were variable within individuals. Thus, the lack of differences between recovery methods may have been influenced by the reliability of exercise-induced biomarker responses.
Benefits of insect colours: a review from social insect studies
Authors: Badejo Oluwatobi , Skaldina Oksana , Gilev Aleksei , Sorvari Jouni
Published: September 2020

Insect colours assist in body protection, signalling, and physiological adaptations. Colours also convey multiple channels of information. These channels are valuable for species identification, distinguishing individual quality, and revealing ecological or evolutionary aspects of animals’ life. During recent years, the emerging interest in colour research has been raised in social hymenopterans such as ants, wasps, and bees. These insects provide important ecosystem services and many of those are model research organisms. Here we review benefits that various colour types give to social insects, summarize practical applications, and highlight further directions. Ants might use colours principally for camouflage, however the evolutionary function of colour in ants needs more attention; in case of melanin colouration there is evidence for its interrelation with thermoregulation and pathogen resistance. Colours in wasps and bees have confirmed linkages to thermoregulation, which is increasingly important in face of global climate change. Besides wasps use colours for various types of signalling. Colour variations of well chemically defended social insects are the mimetic model for unprotected organisms. Despite recent progress in molecular identification of species, colour variations are still widely in use for species identification. Therefore, further studies on variability is encouraged. Being closely interconnected with physiological and biochemical processes, insect colouration is a great source for finding new ecological indicators and biomarkers. Due to novel digital imaging techniques, software, and artificial intelligence there are emerging possibilities for new advances in this topic. Further colour research in social insects should consider specific features of sociality.
Laparoscopic skills training: the effects of viewing mode (2D vs. 3D) on skill acquisition and transfer
Authors: Beattie Kirsty L. , Hill Andrew , Horswill Mark S. , Grove Philip M. , Stevenson Andrew R. L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) visual displays have been suggested to aid laparoscopic skills training by providing the depth cues not present in traditional two-dimensional (2D) displays. However, few studies have robustly investigated the impact of viewing mode (2D vs. 3D) on learning outcomes.

Purpose

To examine how viewing mode (2D vs. 3D) impacts the acquisition and transferability of basic laparoscopic skills by comparing performance between transfer and control groups on a complete proficiency-based training program.

Method

A counterbalanced between-subjects design was employed. Each participant was randomly allocated to one of four groups, comprising two transfer groups (trained in one viewing mode and tested in the alternate mode: the 2D → 3D and 3D → 2D groups) and two control groups (trained and tested in one viewing mode: the 2D → 2D and 3D → 3D groups). Participants completed proficiency-based training in six laparoscopic training tasks. Testing included two further repetitions of all tasks under test conditions. Objective performance measures included the total number of repetitions to reach proficiency, and total performance scores (i.e. time + error penalties across all repetitions) in training and testing.

Results

The groups trained in 3D demonstrated superior training performance (i.e. less time + errors) and took fewer repetitions to reach proficiency than the groups trained in 2D. The groups tested in 3D also demonstrated superior test performance compared to those tested in 2D. However, training mode did not yield significant test differences between the groups tested in 2D (i.e. 2D → 2D vs. 3D → 2D), or between the groups tested in 3D (i.e. 3D → 3D vs. 2D → 3D).

Conclusion

Novices demonstrate superior performance in laparoscopic skills training using a 3D viewing mode compared to 2D. However, this does not necessarily translate to superior performance in subsequent testing or enhanced learning overall. Rather, test performance appears to be dictated by the viewing mode used during testing, not that of prior training.