bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A common genetic variant rs2821557 in KCNA3 is linked to the severity of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lioudyno Victoria , Abdurasulova Irina , Negoreeva Irina , Stoliarov Igor , Kudriavtsev Igor , Serebryakova Maria , Klimenko Victor , Lioudyno Maria
Published: February 2020

The rate of symptom accumulation distinguishes between slowly and rapidly progressing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Given that a patient's genetics can affect the rate of disease progression, identification of genetic variants associated with rapid disease progression should provide valuable information for timely prognosis and development of optimal treatment plans. We hypothesized that the polymorphism rs2821557 in the human KCNA3 gene encoding a voltage‐gated potassium channel Kv1.3 might be one of these genetic variants, given the role of Kv1.3 in neuroinflammation, as well as the location and gain‐of‐function effect of this polymorphism. To test this hypothesis we performed an analytic study exploring the relationships between rs2821557 polymorphism and disease progression in a cohort of MS patients. The rs2821557 genotype and the rate of disease progression based on Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) were determined for 101 patients (68 females and 33 males). Peripheral blood CD4+ lymphocyte subpopulations (Tnaive, TCM, TEM) and the expression of chemokine receptors (CXCR5, CXCR3, CCR6, CCR4) were estimated by flow cytometry. The comparisons between groups by genotype (TT, TC, CC) and allelic approach analysis (T vs. C) revealed a significantly higher incidence of the rapid disease course (MSSS ≥ 7.5) among minor C allele carriers (CC and TC) compared to patients with the TT genotype. Furthermore, C allele carriers had higher counts of CXCR3+ TEM cells than homozygous T allele carriers. In conclusion, accelerated MS progression in C allele carriers is likely linked to enhanced Kv1.3‐mediated accumulation of pathogenic CXCR3+ TEM cells and exacerbated neuroinflammation.
Feasibility of exhausted sugar beet pulp as raw material for lactic acid production
Authors: Díaz Ana Belén , González Claudia , Marzo Cristina , Caro Ildefonso , Blandino Ana
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Exhausted sugar beet pulp pellets (ESBPP), a sugar industry by‐product generated after sugar extraction in the sugar production process, have been used as a raw material for lactic acid (LA) production via hydrolysis and fermentation by Lactobacillus casei. To design a more cost‐effective process, simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) of ESBPP is proposed in the present study. The effects of pH control, nutrient supplementation and solid addition in fed‐batch SSF on lactic acid production were investigated.

RESULTS

The highest LA concentration (26.88 g L–1) was reached in fed‐batch SSF at a solid/liquid loading of 0.2 g mL–1, with pH control (by adding 30 g L–1 CaCO3 to the medium) and nutrient supplementation (by adding 20 mL of MRS medium per 100 mL of buffer). Under these conditions, a maximum productivity of 0.63 g L−1 h−1 was achieved, which is 2.7 times higher than that attained in the control experiment (SSF inoculated at time 0 h). However, a slightly lower LA yield was obtained, revealing the need of an increasing dose of enzymes at high solid loading SSF.

CONCLUSION

An efficient fed‐batch SSF strategy with pH control and MRS supplementation is described in the present study, attaining higher LA productivity compared to separate hydrolysis and fermentation and SSF. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Pathomechanism of intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Oichi Takeshi , Taniguchi Yuki , Oshima Yasushi , Tanaka Sakae , Saito Taku
Published: February 2020

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is the main contributor to low back pain, which is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Although substantial progress has been made in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of IDD, fundamental and long‐lasting treatments for IDD are still lacking. With increased understanding of the complex pathomechanism of IDD, alternative strategies for treating IDD can be discovered. A brief overview of the prevalence and epidemiologic risk factors of IDD is provided in this review, followed by the descriptions of anatomic, cellular, and molecular structure of the intervertebral disc as well as the molecular pathophysiology of IDD. Finally, the recent findings of intervertebral disc progenitors are reviewed and the future perspectives are discussed.
3D Printing in analytical sample preparation
Authors: Li Feng , Ceballos Melisa Rodas , Balavandy Sepideh Keshan , Fan Jingxi , Khataei Mohammad Mahdi , Yamini Yadollah , Maya Fernando
Published: February 2020

In the last 5 years, additive manufacturing (three‐dimensional printing) has emerged as a highly valuable technology to advance the field of analytical sample preparation. Three‐dimensional printing enabled the cost‐effective and rapid fabrication of devices for sample preparation, especially in flow‐based mode, opening new possibilities for the development of automated analytical methods. Recent advances involve membrane‐based three‐dimensional printed separation devices fabricated by print‐pause‐print and multi‐material three‐dimensional printing, or improved three‐dimensional printed holders for solid‐phase extraction containing sorbent bead packings, extraction disks, fibers, and magnetic particles. Other recent developments rely on the direct three‐dimensional printing of extraction sorbents, the functionalization of commercial three‐dimensional printable resins, or the coating of three‐dimensional printed devices with functional micro/nanomaterials. In addition, improved devices for liquid–liquid extraction such as extraction chambers, or phase separators are opening new possibilities for analytical method development combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography. The present review outlines the current state‐of‐the‐art of three‐dimensional printing in analytical sample preparation.
A Novel Technique for the Diagnosis and Management of Middle Ear Myoclonus
Authors: Hutz Michael J. , Aasen Margaret H. , Kircher Matthew
Published: February 2020

A novel technique for the diagnosis and management of middle ear myoclonus is described. A patient with middle ear myoclonus underwent a trans‐canal microscopic middle ear exploration with injection of botulinum toxin into the stapedius and tensor tympani muscles. Postoperatively, the patient noted complete resolution of symptoms. This is the first report of the use of botulinum toxin directly applied to the middle ear musculature via a trans‐canal approach for the management of middle ear myoclonus. This approach is both a useful diagnostic and therapeutic tool that allows for temporary muscle paralysis prior to offering definitive surgical management. Laryngoscope, 131:E248–E249, 2021
Methylcobalamin‐Loaded PLCL Conduits Facilitate the Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Zhang Deteng , Yang Weichao , Wang Chunyang , Zheng Honghao , Liu Zhizhou , Chen Zhehan , Gao Changyou
Published: February 2020

The feasible fabrication of nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) with good biological performance is important for translation in clinics. In this study, poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐caprolactone) (PLCL) films loaded with various amounts (wt; 5%, 15%, 25%) of methylcobalamin (MeCbl) are prepared, and are further rolled and sutured to obtain MeCbl‐loaded NGCs. The MeCbl can be released in a sustainable manner up to 21 days. The proliferation and elongation of Schwann cells, and the proliferation of Neuro2a cells are enhanced on these MeCbl‐loaded films. The MeCbl‐loaded NGCs are implanted into rats to induce the regeneration of 10 mm amputated sciatic nerve defects, showing the ability to facilitate the recovery of motor and sensory function, and to promote myelination in peripheral nerve regeneration. In particular, the 15% MeCbl‐loaded PLCL conduit exhibits the most satisfactory recovery of sciatic nerves in rats with the largest diameter and thickest myelinated fibers.
Fabrication and Characterization of Highly Oriented Composite Nanofibers with Excellent Mechanical Strength and Thermal Stability
Authors: Pu Yi , Yang Xue , Zhang Yifei , Li Lujian , Xie Yuze , He Bin , Yuan Ding , Ning Xin
Published: February 2020

Here, highly‐oriented poly(m‐phenylene isophthalamide)/polyacrylonitrile multi‐walled carbon nanotube (PMIA/PAN‐MWCNT) composite nanofiber membranes with excellent mechanical strength and thermal stability are successfully produced using electrospinning. It is demonstrated that the cooperation of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and high‐speed rotating collection is beneficial to the acquisition of highly oriented fibers and effectively improves the mechanical strength of the membrane along the orientation direction. Specifically, the tensile stress of poly(m‐phenylene isophthalamide)/polyacrylonitrile (PMIA/PAN) membrane is enhanced significantly from 10.6 to 20.7 MPa, benefiting from the highly oriented alignment of the fibers as well as the reinforcing effect of MWCNTs on the fibers. Furthermore, the stressing process of single fiber and fiber aggregates is carefully simulated, and the influence of MWCNTs on the mechanical properties of PMIA/PAN‐MWCNT membranes is analyzed comprehensively, providing a meaningful auxiliary means for the study of mechanical properties. In addition, the composite nanofiber membrane has the advantages of both PMIA and PAN, possessing high temperature resistance, flame‐retardancy, and chemical stability, for an ideal high‐temperature material. In short, the as‐prepared PMIA/PAN‐MWCNT composite membrane with excellent comprehensive property emerges a promising application in many fields, especially in high‐tech.
Do firms choose overcapacity or undercapacity in a vertical structure?
Authors: Choi Kangsik , Lee DongJoon
Published: February 2020

This study investigates capacity choice in a vertical structure in which each downstream firm makes its capacity decision, then a monopolistic upstream firm proposes the input price or two‐part tariff contract. Finally, each downstream firm chooses its output (or price). Contrary to the conventional wisdom that both firms hold excess capacity in an Cournot competition, we find that each downstream firm always chooses undercapacity regardless of both the nature of goods and the competition modes. Second, we also show that capacity efficiency is higher under Cournot competition than under Bertrand competition. Third, even though there are double marginalization distortion and rent‐extracting effect, we can achieve the monopoly equilibrium of the vertically integrated firm though two‐part tariff contract.
Effects of the outer size on tropical cyclone track forecasts
Authors: Tang Chi Kit , Chan Johnny C. L. , Yamaguchi Munehiko
Published: February 2020

The track forecast of a tropical cyclone (TC) located near the neutral point of a split subtropical high pressure system under the influence of a nearby trough is difficult and can lead to a large forecast spread among different global numerical weather prediction models. Three TCs with large forecast spread under such an environmental flow pattern have been identified: Hagupit (2008), Lupit (2009) and Nida (2009). Simulations using a bogus vortex of different radii of 15 m·s−1 (R15) with the same environmental flow for each TC case are conducted to study the effect of TC size on the forecast track of the TC. With a nearby strong monsoon trough, a TC with a smaller R15 merges with the cyclonic circulation within the trough leading to a larger outer circulation. After removing the symmetric component of the TC from the total wind field, an extensive cyclonic asymmetric gyre is found and its circulation steers the TC to move more westward. The TC thus shifts northward within the neutral point. With a weak monsoon trough further away from the TC, a TC with larger R15 with a larger outer circulation interacts with the monsoon trough, causing the TC to move more westward. With the presence of a westerly trough, a TC with larger R15 and outer circulation interacts with the trough such that the TC moves more northeastward. The importance of a correct representation of TC size in a numerical weather prediction model in predicting the TC track is discussed.
President budget proposal modifies IMD exclusion, funds CCBHCs
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2020

The field is encouraged about the Trump administration's proposed budget for FY 2021, citing modifications to Medicaid's Institutions for Mental Disease (IMD) exclusion and continued support for the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs). The $4.8 trillion budget was released Feb. 10.
Integral operators commuting with dilations and rotations in generalized Morrey‐type spaces
Authors: Samko Natasha
Published: February 2020

We find conditions for the boundedness of integral operators
commuting with dilations and rotations in a local generalized Morrey space. We also show that under the same conditions, these operators preserve the subspace of such Morrey space, known as vanishing Morrey space. We also give necessary conditions for the boundedness when the kernel is non‐negative. In the case of classical Morrey spaces, the obtained sufficient and necessary conditions coincide with each other. In the one‐dimensional case, we also obtain similar results for global Morrey spaces. In the case of radial kernels, we also obtain stronger estimates of
via spherical means of
. We demonstrate the efficiency of the obtained conditions for a variety of examples such as weighted Hardy operators, weighted Hilbert operator, their multidimensional versions, and others.
Are oxidative stress and ischemia significant causes of bladder damage leading to lower urinary tract dysfunction? Report from the ICI‐RS 2019
Authors: Speich John E. , Tarcan Tufan , Hashitani Hikaru , Vahabi Bahareh , McCloskey Karen D. , Andersson Karl‐Erik , Wein Alan J. , Birder Lori A.
Published: February 2020

Several studies indicate that pelvic ischemia and oxidative stress may play a significant role in lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD), including detrusor overactivity (DO)/overactive bladder (OAB) and detrusor underactivity (DU)/underactive bladder (UAB). The present article addresses proposal 1: “Are oxidative stress and ischemia significant causes of bladder damage leading to LUTD?” from the 2019 International Consultation on Incontinence—Research Society (ICI‐RS) meeting. Bladder ischemia in animals and humans is briefly described, along with the proposed progression from ischemia to LUTD. Bladder ischemia is compared with ischemia of other organs, and the ongoing development of pelvic ischemia animal models is discussed. In addition, the distribution of blood within the bladder during filling and voiding and the challenges of quantification of blood flow in vivo are described. Furthermore, oxidative stress, including potential biomarkers and treatments, and challenges regarding antioxidant therapy for the treatment of LUTD are discussed. Finally, seven critical research questions and proposed studies to answer those questions were identified as priorities that would lead to major advances in the understanding and treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)/LUTD associated with pelvic ischemia and oxidative stress.
Study on thermal, mechanical and morphological properties of recycled poly(vinyl chloride)/fly ash composites
Authors: Gohatre Omdeo Kishorrao , Biswal Manoranjan , Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K
Published: February 2020

The present study deals with the development of composite materials utilizing recycled poly(vinyl chloride) (r‐PVC) recovered from waste electrical and electronic materials and waste fly ash obtained from thermal power plants. The effect of the incorporation of fly ash on the mechanical, thermal and morphological properties of the r‐PVC matrix was studied. The primary characterization of r‐PVC and fly ash was done employing FTIR, EDX, particle size analysis and XRD analysis. Subsequently, fly ash with a particle size of approximately 9.29 μm was incorporated within the r‐PVC matrix. Composite sheets were prepared using a melt blending process followed by compression moulding. The mechanical test revealed an increase in the tensile strength and elongation at break of the r‐PVC/fly ash composite up to 30 wt% loading of fly ash beyond which there was a decrease in the tensile strength. The impact strength, however, decreased with increasing fly ash content in the r‐PVC matrix. The morphological properties of the composites showed a good distribution of the filler within the recycled matrix. The thermal properties of r‐PVC also improved with the incorporation of fly ash which was revealed from DSC and TGA studies. The water absorption test showed an increase in water uptake with the addition of fly ash in the r‐PVC matrix. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Nanocellulose water treatment membranes and filters: a review
Authors: Mautner Andreas
Published: February 2020

This review covers the use of nanocelluloses in water treatment applications with particular focus on membranes and filters made either entirely from (nano)cellulose or in composite approaches. Nanocelluloses are among the emerging materials of this century, having found an abundance of potential applications in the fields of composites, medicine, functional additives or water treatment. Water treatment applications in particular have received significant academic and commercial attention, with a large variety of approaches developed in order to address arguably one of the largest problems that humanity is confronted with in the 21st century: clean water. In this regard, treatment of both potable water and wastewater is of high importance. The reason for the viability of nanocelluloses as base material relies upon their high specific surface area and abundance of OH groups that already exhibit certain attraction toward pollutants carrying ionic structures or dyes and also can be easily modified to significantly increase the affinity of nanocelluloses toward these pollutants. Nanocelluloses in their various forms (cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibrils, bacterial cellulose) have been applied in water treatment, with membranes and filters (size exclusion, e.g. for nanoparticle filtration, or affinity membranes) as well as adsorbents (e.g. heavy metal ions, dyes, nitrates) being the most studied. © 2020 The Author. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Star‐shaped polycaprolactone/chitosan composite hydrogels: fabrication and characterization
Authors: Ekapakul Natjaya , Irikura Koichi , Ajiro Hiroharu , Choochottiros Chantiga
Published: February 2020

Star‐shaped polycaprolactone (stPCL)/chitosan composite hydrogel was fabricated by simply melt/solution blending between chitosan/dicarboxylic acid solution and melted stPCL, using 1‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)‐3‐ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride and N‐hydroxysuccinimide as conjugating agents to obtain a composite hydrogel. Here, stPCL and modified stPCL were investigated. The stPCL was modified to have a carboxyl‐terminated chain (stPCL‐COOH). The composite hydrogels were transparent. The network structure of the composite hydrogels was investigated. stPCL‐OH had no chemical bond to the chitosan network but stPCL‐COOH could co‐crosslink with the chitosan network. The porous structure and porosity of the composite hydrogels were similar to those of chitosan hydrogel. However, the hydrophobicity of stPCL resulted in a lower swelling ratio compared to chitosan hydrogel. The rheological analysis of the composite hydrogel exhibited a stable crosslinked network. Compression testing of the composite hydrogel obtained from stPCL‐COOH at a mole ratio of stPCL‐COOH and chitosan of 1:1 had optimum compressive mechanical properties comparable to chitosan hydrogel due to a synergistic effect of the flexibility in stPCL and the co‐crosslinking of stPCL‐COOH with the chitosan network. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Maximizing the applied value of structural models of psychopathology: Introduction to a special issue of Personality and Mental Health
Authors: Conway Christopher C. , Simms Leonard J.
Published: February 2020

Structural models of mental illness delineate the major phenotypic dimensions of psychopathology. These evidence‐based models, such as the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology, are poised to supplement—and even supplant—categorical diagnostic systems in research, assessment and treatment arenas. This special issue of Personality and Mental Health explores a new wave of research into structural models' utility for theory testing and clinical practice. Can structural approaches advance etiological research by clarifying connections between psychopathology and social, cultural, psychological and biological vulnerability processes? Can dimensional models of mental illness assimilate consensus models of temperament and personality? Can this paradigm identify optimal treatment targets and guide treatment design and selection? The studies compiled here all look beyond nosology to understand how structural models are changing research and clinical landscapes in mental health disciplines. We envision this set of articles as a blueprint for further investigation into the configuration, research utility and clinical application of structural approaches to diagnostic classification. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Miro: A molecular switch at the center of mitochondrial regulation
Authors: Eberhardt Emily L. , Ludlam Anthony V. , Tan Zhenyu , Cianfrocco Michael A.
Published: February 2020

The orchestration of mitochondria within the cell represents a critical aspect of cell biology. At the center of this process is the outer mitochondrial membrane protein, Miro. Miro coordinates diverse cellular processes by regulating connections between organelles and the cytoskeleton that range from mediating contacts between the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria to the regulation of both actin and microtubule motor proteins. Recently, a number of cell biological, biochemical, and protein structure studies have helped to characterize the myriad roles played by Miro. In addition to answering questions regarding Miro's function, these studies have opened the door to new avenues in the study of Miro in the cell. This review will focus on summarizing recent findings for Miro's structure, function, and activity while highlighting key questions that remain unanswered.
The impact of population mobility on estimates of environmental exposure effects in a case‐control study
Authors: Joseph Anny‐Claude , Fuentes Montserrat , Wheeler David C.
Published: February 2020

In many studies of environmental risk factors for disease, researchers use the location at diagnosis as a geographic reference for environmental exposures. However, many environmental pollutants change continuously over space and time. The dynamic characteristics of these pollutants coupled with population mobility in the United States suggest that for diseases with long latencies like cancer, historic exposures may be more relevant than exposure at the time of diagnosis. In this article, we evaluated to what extent the commonly used assumption of no population mobility results in increased bias in the estimates of the relationship between environmental exposures and long‐latency health outcomes disease in a case‐control study. We conducted a simulation study using the residential histories of a random sample from the National Institutes of Health‐AARP (formerly American Association of Retired Persons) Diet and Health Study. We simulated case‐control status based on subject exposure and true exposure effects that varied temporally. We compared estimates from models using only subject location at diagnosis to estimates where subjects were assumed to be mobile. Ignoring population mobility resulted in underestimates of subject exposure, with largest deviations observed at time points further away from study enrollment. In general, the effect of population mobility on the bias of the estimates of the relationship between the exposure and the outcome was more prominent with exposures that showed substantial spatial and temporal variability. Based on our results, we recommend using residential histories when environmental exposures and disease latencies span a long enough time period that mobility is important.
Deep‐Q learning‐based heterogeneous earliest finish time scheduling algorithm for scientific workflows in cloud
Authors: Kaur Avinash , Singh Parminder , Singh Batth Ranbir , Peng Lim Chee
Published: February 2020

The complex and large‐scale scientific workflow applications are effectively executes on the cloud. The performance of cloud computing highly depends on the task scheduling. Optimal workflow scheduling is still a challenge that needs to be addressed due to the conflicting objectives and increasing demand for quality of service. Task scheduling is an NP‐hard problem due to its complexity. The newly introduced methods for resolving the problem of task scheduling are facing challenges to take the benefits of all aspects of cloud computing. In this article, we study the joint optimization of cost and makespan of scheduling workflows in infrastructure as a service clouds and propose a new workflow scheduling scheme using deep learning. In this scheme, a deep‐Q learning‐based heterogeneous earliest‐finish‐time (DQ‐HEFT) algorithm is developed, which closely integrates the deep learning mechanism with the task scheduling heuristic HEFT. The workflowsim simulator is used for the experiment of the real‐world and synthetic workflows. The experiment results demonstrate the efficiency of our proposed approach compared with existing algorithms. This technique can achieve significantly better makespan and speed metrics with a remarkably higher volume of data and can run faster compared with the existing workflow scheduling algorithms in cloud computing environment.
SemiSupervised Learning for Class Association Rule Mining Using Genetic Network Programming
Authors: Mabu Shingo , Higuchi Takuro , Kuremoto Takashi
Published: February 2020

Data mining extracts useful knowledge from big data. The extracted knowledge in data mining is often represented by association rules, and association rules can be also used for classification. However, when association rules for classification (called class association rules) are extracted, a large number of data with class labels are necessary, which requires a lot of cost of manual annotation. Therefore, this paper proposes a semisupervised learning method for rule extraction, where a small number of labeled data and a large number of unlabeled data are used to efficiently extract class association rules. In detail, this paper proposes two types of classifiers using class association rules: one is a classifier based on semisupervised learning, and the other is that based on both supervised and semisupervised learning. The second method builds several classifiers using supervised learning and semisupervised learning and the classification results of these classifiers are integrated to make the final decision. As an association rule mining method, Genetic Network Programming (GNP), which is one of the graph‐based evolutionary algorithms is used. GNP has shown distinguished classification ability in some applications; therefore, one of the other objectives of this paper is to extend the applicability of GNP to data mining based on semisupervised learning. In the experiments, the classification accuracy is evaluated using some benchmark datasets by comparing with some conventional methods. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
$$ T\overline{T},J\overline{T},T\overline{J} $$ partition sums from string theory
Authors: Hashimoto Akikazu , Kutasov David
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We calculate the torus partition sum of a general CFT2 with left and right moving conserved currents J and $$ \overline{J} $$

J
¯

, perturbed by a combination of the irrelevant operators $$ T\overline{T},J\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

,
J

T
¯

and $$ T\overline{J} $$
T

J
¯

. We use string theory techniques to write it as an integral transform of the partition sum of the unperturbed CFT with chemical potentials for the left and right moving conserved charges. The resulting expression transforms in the right way under the modular group, and reproduces the known spectrum of these models. We also derive a formula for the partition function of deformed CFT2 with non-vanishing chemical potentials.
IgG4-assoziierte Orbitopathie als wichtige Differenzialdiagnose eines fortgeschrittenen Silent-Sinus-Syndroms
Authors: Jurkov M. , Olze H. , Klauschen F. , Bertelmann E. , Schneider U. , Arens P.
Published: February 2020

Background

Immunoglobulin (Ig)G4-related disease is classified as an immune-mediated disease. The etiology of this condition has not been explained to date. Manifestations of the disease are diverse, and simultaneous involvement of multiple organs is not unusual.

Case report

We report the case of a patient referred to us after multiple unsuccessful paranasal sinus operations who presented with enophthalmos and a resultant migratory keratitis with a suspected diagnosis of silent sinus syndrome. Preservation of the orbit was no longer feasible. After five years without a definitive diagnosis, we ascertained that this was a case of IgG4-related disease.

Discussion

IgG4-related disease represents an important element in the differential diagnosis of chronic advanced diseases of the orbit and paranasal sinuses. The diagnosis should be considered in the case of unclear disease presentations. Typical histological findings include a storiform pattern of fibrosis, vasculopathy, and tissue infiltration by IgG4 plasma cells.
The role of acceleration and jerk in perception of above-threshold surge motion
Authors: de Winkel Ksander N. , Soyka Florian , Bülthoff Heinrich H.
Published: February 2020

Inertial motions may be defined in terms of acceleration and jerk, the time-derivative of acceleration. We investigated the relative contributions of these characteristics to the perceived intensity of motions. Participants were seated on a high-fidelity motion platform, and presented with 25 above-threshold 1 s forward (surge) motions that had acceleration values ranging between 0.5 and 2.5 $$\text {m/s}^2$$m/s2 and jerks between 20 and 60 $$\text {m/s}^3$$m/s3, in five steps each. Participants performed two tasks: a magnitude estimation task, where they provided subjective ratings of motion intensity for each motion, and a two-interval forced choice task, where they provided judgments on which motion of a pair was more intense, for all possible combinations of the above motion profiles. Analysis of the data shows that responses on both tasks may be explained by a single model, and that this model should include acceleration only. The finding that perceived motion intensity depends on acceleration only appears inconsistent with previous findings. We show that this discrepancy can be explained by considering the frequency content of the motions, and demonstrate that a linear time-invariant systems model of the otoliths and subsequent processing can account for the present data as well as for previous findings.
Recent findings in the genetics and epigenetics of asthma and allergy
Authors: Kabesch Michael , Tost Jörg
Published: February 2020

In asthma and allergy genetics, a trend towards a few main topics developed over the last 2 years. First, a number of studies have been published recently which focus on overlapping and/or very specific phenotypes: within the allergy spectrum but also reaching beyond, looking for common genetic traits shared between different diseases or disease entities. Secondly, an urgently needed focus has been put on asthma and allergy genetics in populations genetically different from European ancestry. This acknowledges that the majority of new asthma patients today are not white and asthma is a truly worldwide disease. In epigenetics, recent years have seen several large-scale epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) being published and a further focus was on the interaction between the environment and epigenetic signatures. And finally, the major trends in current asthma and allergy genetics and epigenetics comes from the field of pharmacogenetics, where it is necessary to understand the susceptibility for and mechanisms of current asthma and allergy therapies while at the same time, we need to have scientific answers to the recent availability of novel drugs that hold the promise for a more individualized therapy.
Radiomics of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in renal cell carcinoma—a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ursprung Stephan , Beer Lucian , Bruining Annemarie , Woitek Ramona , Stewart Grant D , Gallagher Ferdia A , Sala Evis
Published: February 2020

Objectives

(1) To assess the methodological quality of radiomics studies investigating histological subtypes, therapy response, and survival in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and (2) to determine the risk of bias in these radiomics studies.

Methods

In this systematic review, literature published since 2000 on radiomics in RCC was included and assessed for methodological quality using the Radiomics Quality Score. The risk of bias was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool and a meta-analysis of radiomics studies focusing on differentiating between angiomyolipoma without visible fat and RCC was performed.

Results

Fifty-seven studies investigating the use of radiomics in renal cancer were identified, including 4590 patients in total. The average Radiomics Quality Score was 3.41 (9.4% of total) with good inter-rater agreement (ICC 0.96, 95% CI 0.93–0.98). Three studies validated results with an independent dataset, one used a publically available validation dataset. None of the studies shared the code, images, or regions of interest. The meta-analysis showed moderate heterogeneity among the included studies and an odds ratio of 6.24 (95% CI 4.27–9.12; p < 0.001) for the differentiation of angiomyolipoma without visible fat from RCC.

Conclusions

Radiomics algorithms show promise for answering clinical questions where subjective interpretation is challenging or not established. However, the generalizability of findings to prospective cohorts needs to be demonstrated in future trials for progression towards clinical translation. Improved sharing of methods including code and images could facilitate independent validation of radiomics signatures.

Key Points

• Studies achieved an average Radiomics Quality Score of 10.8%. Common reasons for low Radiomics Quality Scores were unvalidated results, retrospective study design, absence of open science, and insufficient control for multiple comparisons.

• A previous training phase allowed reaching almost perfect inter-rater agreement in the application of the Radiomics Quality Score.

• Meta-analysis of radiomics studies distinguishing angiomyolipoma without visible fat from renal cell carcinoma show moderate diagnostic odds ratios of 6.24 and moderate methodological diversity.
Diet change affects intestinal microbiota restoration and improves vertical sleeve gastrectomy outcome in diet-induced obese rats
Authors: Rossell Joana , Brindefalk Björn , Baena-Fustegueras Juan Antonio , Peinado-Onsurbe Julia , Udekwu Klas I.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Obesity, a worldwide health problem, is linked to an abnormal gut microbiota and is currently most effectively treated by bariatric surgery. Our aim was to characterize the microbiota of high-fat fed Sprague–Dawley rats when subjected to bariatric surgery (i.e., vertical sleeve gastrectomy) and posterior refeeding with either a high-fat or control diet. We hypothesized that bariatric surgery followed by the control diet was more effective in reverting the microbiota modifications caused by the high-fat diet when compared to either of the two factors alone.

Methods

Using next-generation sequencing of ribosomal RNA amplicons, we analyzed and compared the composition of the cecal microbiota after vertical sleeve gastrectomy with control groups representing non-operated rats, control fed, high-fat fed, and post-operative diet-switched animals. Rats were fed either a high-fat or control low-fat diet and were separated into three comparison groups after eight weeks comprising no surgery, sham surgery, and vertical sleeve gastrectomy. Half of the rats were then moved from the HFD to the control diet. Using next-generation sequencing of ribosomal RNA amplicons, we analyzed the composition of the cecal microbiota of rats allocated to the vertical sleeve gastrectomy group and compared it to that of the non-surgical, control fed, high-fat fed, and post-operative diet-switched groups. Additionally, we correlated different biological parameters with the genera exhibiting the highest variation in abundance between the groups.

Results

The high-fat diet was the strongest driver of altered taxonomic composition, relative microbial abundance, and diversity in the cecum. These effects were partially reversed in the diet-switched cohort, especially when combined with sleeve gastrectomy, resulting in increased diversity and shifting relative abundances. Several highly-affected genera were correlated with obesity-related parameters.

Conclusions

The dysbiotic state caused by high-fat diet was improved by the change to the lower fat, higher fiber control diet. Bariatric surgery contributed significantly and additively to the diet in restoring microbiome diversity and complexity. These results highlight the importance of dietary intervention following bariatric surgery for improved restoration of cecal diversity, as neither surgery nor change of diet alone had the same effects as when combined.
Polycystic ovary syndrome management: a review of the possible amazing role of berberine
Authors: Rondanelli M. , Infantino Vittoria , Riva A. , Petrangolini G. , Faliva M. A. , Peroni G. , Naso M. , Nichetti M. , Spadaccini D. , Gasparri C. , Perna S.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The therapy of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is based on synthetic hormones associated with lifestyle changes, but these therapies cannot be taken continuously, especially by women who would like to become pregnant. Thus, nutraceutical compounds were investigated as possible agents for treatment of PCOS. Berberine is shown to be effective against insulin resistance and obesity, particularly against visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Because of these properties, researchers theorized that berberine could be effective in PCOS treatment.

Methods

The aim of this narrative review was to assess the state of the art about the use of berberine in PCOS management.

Results

This review included 5 eligible studies. Despite the number of studies considered being low, the number of women studied is high (1078) and the results are interesting. Two authors find out that berberine induced a redistribution of adipose tissue, reducing VAT in the absence of weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity, quite like metformin. One author demonstrated that berberine improved the lipid pattern. Moreover, three authors demonstrated that berberine improved insulin resistance in theca cells with an improvement of the ovulation rate per cycle, so berberine is also effective on fertility and live birth rates.

Conclusions

Finally, berberine is safe to use in premenopausal women who want to get pregnant and showed few side effects in all the cited studies. In conclusion, the use of berberine for PCOS is safe and promising, even if more studies are needed to create a consensus about the dosage of berberine useful for long-term therapy.
Understanding the chemistry of the artificial electron acceptors PES, PMS, DCPIP and Wurster’s Blue in methanol dehydrogenase assays
Authors: Jahn Bérénice , Jonasson Niko S. W. , Hu Hurina , Singer Helena , Pol Arjan , Good Nathan M. , den Camp Huub J. M. Op , Martinez-Gomez N. Cecilia , Daumann Lena J.
Published: February 2020

Methanol dehydrogenases (MDH) have recently taken the spotlight with the discovery that a large portion of these enzymes in nature utilize lanthanides in their active sites. The kinetic parameters of these enzymes are determined with a spectrophotometric assay first described by Anthony and Zatman 55 years ago. This artificial assay uses alkylated phenazines, such as phenazine ethosulfate (PES) or phenazine methosulfate (PMS), as primary electron acceptors (EAs) and the electron transfer is further coupled to a dye. However, many groups have reported problems concerning the bleaching of the assay mixture in the absence of MDH and the reproducibility of those assays. Hence, the comparison of kinetic data among MDH enzymes of different species is often cumbersome. Using mass spectrometry, UV–Vis and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, we show that the side reactions of the assay mixture are mainly due to the degradation of assay components. Light-induced demethylation (yielding formaldehyde and phenazine in the case of PMS) or oxidation of PES or PMS as well as a reaction with assay components (ammonia, cyanide) can occur. We suggest here a protocol to avoid these side reactions. Further, we describe a modified synthesis protocol for obtaining the alternative electron acceptor, Wurster’s blue (WB), which serves both as EA and dye. The investigation of two lanthanide-dependent methanol dehydrogenases fromMethylorubrum extorquensAM1 andMethylacidiphilum fumariolicumSolV with WB, along with handling recommendations, is presented.

Graphic abstract

Lanthanide-dependent methanol dehydrogenases. Understanding the chemistry of artificial electron acceptors and redox dyes can yield more reproducible results.
Genome rearrangements and megaplasmid loss in the filamentous bacterium Kitasatospora viridifaciens are associated with protoplast formation and regeneration
Authors: Ramijan Karina , Zhang Zheren , van Wezel Gilles P. , Claessen Dennis
Published: February 2020

Filamentous Actinobacteria are multicellular bacteria with linear replicons. Kitasatospora viridifaciens DSM 40239 contains a linear 7.8 Mb chromosome and an autonomously replicating plasmid KVP1 of 1.7 Mb. Here we show that lysozyme-induced protoplast formation of the multinucleated mycelium of K. viridifaciens drives morphological diversity. Characterisation and sequencing of an individual revertant colony that had lost the ability to differentiate revealed that the strain had not only lost most of KVP1 but also carried deletions in the right arm of the chromosome. Strikingly, the deletion sites were preceded by insertion sequence elements, suggesting that the rearrangements may have been caused by replicative transposition and homologous recombination between both replicons. These data indicate that protoplast formation is a stressful process that can lead to profound genetic changes.
Work–Family Practices and Complexity of Their Usage: A Discourse Analysis Towards Socially Responsible Human Resource Management
Authors: Heikkinen Suvi , Lämsä Anna-Maija , Niemistö Charlotta
Published: February 2020

The question of work–family practices commonly arises in both theory and daily practice as a matter of responsibility in today’s organisations. More information is needed about them for socially responsible human resource management (SR-HRM). In this article our interest is in how work–family practices, serve as an important element of SR-HRM, constructed as (un)helpful for employees’ work–family integration, are realised in organisational life. We investigate the discursive ways in which members of two different organisations working at different organisational levels construct the issue in the Finnish context. Three discourses were interpreted: (1) a discourse of compliance with external pressure, (2) a discourse of negotiation and (3) a discourse of individual flexibility. Discursive constructions of work–family practices make visible the complex interconnectedness of individuals and organisations with the environment in which they operate. Many organisational efforts to create positive work–family practices can, in fact, lead to failure to make these practices either available or usable, and they may result in the unjust treatment of organisation members. Creating sustainable work–family practices is a complex challenge for which SR-HRM must work out a solution.
Motor vehicle accidents in CPAP-compliant obstructive sleep apnea patients—a long-term observational study
Authors: Myllylä Minna , Anttalainen Ulla , Saaresranta Tarja , Laitinen Tarja
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been associated with a 2- to 7-fold risk of motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment may reduce MVA risk. We further explored this issue in long-term CPAP users and untreated controls.

Methods

We used both before-after and case-control study designs. The observational cohort consisted of CPAP-treated and untreated patients matched for gender, age, and apnea-hypopnea index. All MVAs reported to the police were identified.

Results

A total of 2060 patients (75.8% male, mean age 56.0 ± 10.5 years) were included. The CPAP-treated patients (N = 1030) were screened for MVAs for a median of 9.0 years before and after treatment. The median CPAP usage was 6.4 h/day. The control patients (N = 1030) were screened for MVAs for a median of 6.5 years after discontinuation of CPAP. No significant differences were observed between the incidences of MVAs per 1000 person years before treatment (3.2), after treatment (3.9), or in controls (2.6). Compared with controls, patients who had MVA after treatment had a higher body mass index (BMI), but did not differ in terms of other baseline characteristics, sleep study data, or accident conditions. In the majority of these patients, daytime sleepiness was reduced, whereas BMI tended to increase during treatment.

Conclusions

The MVA incidence did not change after CPAP treatment. Among the patients who had MVA, BMI was the only baseline characteristic that differed between the groups and tended to further increase after CPAP treatment. Differences in sleep study data or accident conditions were not observed.