bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Propranolol on Sperm Parameters, CatSper 2 Gene and Protein Expression, and Oxidative Stress in Adult Mice
Authors: Mohammadi Shabnam , Beheshti Farimah , Elyasi Sepideh , Jalali Mehdi
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of propranolol on sperms, histopathology of testes, and CatSper 2 gene and protein expression in adult mice. 18 adult male mice were randomly divided into control, propranolol 1 (receiving 10 mg/kg dose) and propranolol 2 group (receiving 15 mg/kg dose for 35 days). The mean amount of sperm parameters in the propranolol 1 and propranolol 2 groups was significantly lower than the control group (p<0.05). CatSper2 gene and protein expression have significantly decreased in propranolol 1 and propranolol 2 groups compared to the control group (P<0.05). Reduction of CatSper2 gene and protein expression in low dose of propranolol was more severe than high dose. In testicular tissues of the propranolol 1 group, vacuoles and necrosis in the germinal epithelium were observed, and in testicular tissues of propranolol 2 group decrease in the thickness of the germinal epithelium, some vacuoles and necrosis were observed in germinal epithelium as well as congestion in the interstitial space. The mean value of thiol and catalase enzyme in the propranolol 1 and propranolol 2 groups, and the mean value of superoxide dismutase in propranolol 1 group, were significantly different compared to the control group (P<0.05).
O PROCESSO TRANSEXUALIZADOR NOS ESTADOS-MEMBROS DO MERCOSUL E A POSSIBILIDADE DE APROXIMAÇÃO DOS DIREITOS COMO INSTRUMENTO DA INTEGRAÇÃO
Authors: REGINA MARTINI SANDRA , SCHUMANN BERTA
Published: August 2020

O artigo pretende realizar uma breve análise sobre o processo transexualizador em cada um dos Estados-membros do Mercosul e sobre como as medidas adotadas em um país podem influenciar outro. Lugar de destaque possui a Argentina, nação que possui a legislação mais avançada a respeito do tema dentre os países da América do Sul e que tem influenciado diretamente o Brasil desde o reconhecimento das uniões homoafetivas. Serão abordadas a questão da tentativa da aproximação dos direitos decorrentes do chamado transplante jurídico das normas e a possibilidade da realização do procedimento transexualizador no Brasil por pessoa residente em outro país integrante do bloco. Essa é uma tentativa de avaliar a integração regional pelo incremento da aproximação frente ao objetivo inerente ao mercado comum, que é consolidar a integração política, econômica e social entre os países que o integram, fortalecer os vínculos entre os cidadãos do bloco e contribuir para melhorar sua qualidade de vida. Não será abordado o processo transexualizador nos países associados.
Nitrate removal and nitrous oxide production from upflow and downflow column woodchip bioreactors
Authors: Feyereisen Gary W. , Spokas Kurt A. , Strock Jeffrey S. , Mulla David J. , Ranaivoson Andry Z. , Coulter Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2020

Woodchip denitrifying bioreactors (WDBR) reduce off‐field tile drainage nitrogen (N) losses from agricultural fields. Limited evaluation exists regarding the influence of flow direction through WDBRs. Changing flow direction could reduce short circuiting. This study evaluated the dependency of nitrate‐N removal and dissolved nitrous oxide (dN2O) production rates on vertical flow direction in triplicate column bioreactors at 12‐h (without carbon dosing) and 2‐h (with carbon dosing) hydraulic residence times. Results presented demonstrate that there was no significant difference in overall N removal rates from these column bioreactors as a function of flow direction. There was the suggestion of lower N2O production in the downflow direction, although this was not statistically significant due to the high variability of the N2O production observed in the upflow direction. Carbon addition led to bioclogging of downflow columns; future work needs to identify dosing rate, placement, and conditions that prevent biofilm formation.
Participation Trends for Full Price Meals in the National School Lunch Program
Authors: Golino Gregory , Ralston Katherine , Guthrie Joanne
Published: August 2020

Participation in USDA's National School Lunch Program has declined since 2011, driven by fewer full‐price lunch purchases among students not eligible for free or reduced‐price meals. Potential explanations include meal price increases for paying students and updated nutrition standards for meals following implementation of the Healthy Hunger‐Free Child Act, as well as macroeconomic factors. Longitudinal analyses of full‐price lunch participation at the state and local levels indicate household income and employment trends were significantly associated with participation trends, but lunch price increases and challenges some localities experienced implementing new nutrition standards may have played a role as well.
Inhibition of Tumor Progression through the Coupling of Bacterial Respiration with Tumor Metabolism
Authors: Chen Qi‐Wen , Wang Jia‐Wei , Wang Xia‐Nan , Fan Jin‐Xuan , Liu Xin‐Hua , Li Bin , Han Zi‐Yi , Cheng Si‐Xue , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: August 2020

By leveraging the ability of Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 (S. oneidensis MR‐1) to anaerobically catabolize lactate through the transfer of electrons to metal minerals for respiration, a lactate‐fueled biohybrid (Bac@MnO2) was constructed by modifying manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoflowers on the S. oneidensis MR‐1 surface. The biohybrid Bac@MnO2 uses decorated MnO2 nanoflowers as electron receptor and the tumor metabolite lactate as electron donor to make a complete bacterial respiration pathway at the tumor sites, which results in the continuous catabolism of intercellular lactate. Additionally, decorated MnO2 nanoflowers can also catalyze the conversion of endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into generate oxygen (O2), which could prevent lactate production by downregulating hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) expression. As lactate plays a critical role in tumor development, the biohybrid Bac@MnO2 could significantly inhibit tumor progression by coupling bacteria respiration with tumor metabolism.
Cascade Synthesis of Pyrroles from Nitroarenes with Benign Reductants Using a Heterogeneous Cobalt Catalyst
Authors: Ryabchuk Pavel , Leischner Thomas , Kreyenschulte Carsten , Spannenberg Anke , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias
Published: August 2020

A bifunctional 3d‐metal catalyst for the cascade synthesis of diverse pyrroles from nitroarenes is presented. The optimal catalytic system Co/NGr‐C@SiO2‐L is obtained by pyrolysis of a cobalt‐impregnated composite followed by subsequent selective leaching. In the presence of this material, (transfer) hydrogenation of easily available nitroarenes and subsequent Paal–Knorr/Clauson‐Kass condensation provides >40 pyrroles in good to high yields using dihydrogen, formic acid, or a CO/H2O mixture (WGSR conditions) as reductant. In addition to the favorable step economy, this straightforward domino process does not require any solvents or external co‐catalysts. The general synthetic utility of this methodology was demonstrated on a variety of functionalized substrates including the preparation of biologically active and pharmaceutically relevant compounds, for example, (+)‐Isamoltane.
Concise Biosynthesis of Phenylfuropyridones in Fungi
Authors: Zhang Zhuan , Qiao Tianzhang , Watanabe Kenji , Tang Yi
Published: August 2020

Phenylfuropyridone natural products from fungi exhibit a range of antibacterial and cytotoxicity activities, and can potentiate azole antifungal compounds. We elucidated the biosynthetic pathway of compounds in the citridone family through heterologous reconstitution of the pfp pathway. We demonstrate that multiple members of this family can be accessed from a reactive ortho‐quinone methide (o‐QM) intermediate through electrocyclization, cycloisomerization, or conjugate addition. Formation of the quaternary carbon center in citridone B is catalyzed by an epoxide‐forming P450 enzyme, followed by carbon skeletal rearrangement. Our results showcase how nature harvests the reactivities of an o‐QM intermediate to biosynthesize complex natural products.
Exosome‐Mimetic Supramolecular Vesicles with Reversible and Controllable Fusion and Fission**
Authors: Li Jie , Peng Kang , Li Youmei , Wang Jianxing , Huang Jianbin , Yan Yun , Wang Dong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2020

The fusion and fission behaviors of exosomes are essential for the cell‐to‐cell communication. Developing exosome‐mimetic vesicles with such behaviors is of vital importance, but still remains a big challenge. Presented herein is an artificial supramolecular vesicle that exhibits redox‐modulated reversible fusion‐fission functions. These vesicles tend to fuse together and form large‐sized vesicles upon oxidation, undergo a fission process and then return to small‐sized vesicles through reduction. Noteworthy, the aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics of the supramolecular building blocks enable the molecular configuration during vesicular transformation to be monitored by fluorescence technology. Moreover, the presented vesicles are excellent nanocarrier candidates to transfer siRNA into cancer cells.
The awakening of invertebrates: The daily dynamics of fishes and mobile invertebrates at Rapa Nui's multiple use marine protected area
Authors: Hinojosa Iván A. , Zapata‐Hernández German , Fowles Amelia E. , Gaymer Carlos F. , Stuart‐Smith Rick D.
Published: August 2020

On shallow reefs, day‐night activity patterns between fishes and invertebrates are presumed to reflect trade‐offs between feeding and predation; however, quantitative data on daily community dynamics are scarce. Moreover, night surveys may contribute important information for biodiversity inventories or baselines that normally are not considered.

This study used standardized day–night visual surveys of fishes and mobile invertebrates on the same transect lines in Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and investigated how diel patterns vary between taxonomic and trophic groups.

Distinct differences between taxonomic groups were observed, with fishes being more abundant during the day (>twice), whilst invertebrate abundance and richness showed an opposite trend with higher numbers at night (>three times).

Analysis of trophic groups showed that herbivorous and planktivorous fishes were more abundant during the day. Carnivorous fishes did not show any trends. Top predators (Apex) were observed only at very low abundances. However, a replacement amongst carnivorous fish species between day and night was found, where labridae fishes were practically absent during nights.

Most of the mobile invertebrates remained concealed during the day, probably due to the influence of predation risk (labrid fishes). The results emphasize the need for consideration of nocturnally active invertebrates in biodiversity inventories or baselines of reefs, which focus heavily only on diurnal surveys.

Day–night reef surveys should be included in marine protected area planning and monitoring as this provides a better understanding of shallow benthic communities and helps inform proper management decisions.
Konzeptionierung eines praxisorientierten 3D‐Druckverfahrens für den Verbundwerkstoff Stahlbeton (AMoRC)
Authors: Claßen Martin , Claßen Johannes , Sharma Rahul
Published: August 2020

Mit extrusionsbasierten 3D‐Druckmethoden herstellbare unbewehrte Betonbauteile sind nur in seltenen Fällen für den Einsatz in realen Bauwerken geeignet, da sie spröde versagen und unzureichende Tragfähigkeiten aufweisen. Daher werden neue Verfahren benötigt, die die Integration von Stahlbewehrung in den Betondruckprozess und damit die additive Fertigung des Verbundwerkstoffs Stahlbeton ermöglichen. Die Konzeptionierung eines praxisorientierten 3D‐Druckverfahrens für Stahlbeton, das sog. „Additive Manufacturing of Reinforced Concrete“ (AMoRC), ist daher Gegenstand des vorliegenden Beitrags. Im AMoRC‐Verfahren werden konfektionierte Stahlbewehrungsstäbe abschnittweise mit einem Lichtbogenbolzenschweißverfahren zu einer dreidimensionalen Bewehrungsstruktur gefügt und simultan mit einem Beton‐Extrusionsprozess umdruckt. Der vorliegende Beitrag beschreibt die Entwicklung des Verfahrens und erste Voruntersuchungen zur Umsetzbarkeit.
Narcolepsy, depression, and severe flushing in an obese man
Authors: Biobaku Fatimo , Hanna Adel , Matthews George , Dhindsa Sandeep , Dandona Paresh
Published: August 2020

Hypogonadism as a cause of depression, daytime sleepiness, and flushing is often missed in young males. Our case report highlights the importance of screening for hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and its treatment in symptomatic men with severe obesity, especially if they have depression, excessive sleepiness, and narcolepsy.
Laparoendoscopic rendezvous procedure in a patient with situs inversus totalis: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Brañes Alejandro , Pérez Gustavo
Published: August 2020

Situs inversus totalis patients may be associated with difficulties in the diagnosis and treatment of surgical diseases. This case suggests that laparoendoscopic rendezvous procedure could be associated with a lower morbidity and length of hospital stay.
Issues and solutions toward zinc anode in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries: A mini review
Authors: Xie Chunlin , Li Yihu , Wang Qi , Sun Dan , Tang Yougen , Wang Haiyan
Published: August 2020

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) have been intensively investigated as potential energy storage devices on account of their low cost, environmental benignity, and intrinsically safe merits. With the exploitation of high‐performance cathode materials, electrolyte systems, and in‐depth mechanism investigation, the electrochemical performances of ZIBs have been greatly enhanced. However, there are still some challenges that need to be overcome before its commercialization. Among them, the obstinate dendrites, corrosion, and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on Zn anodes are critical issues that severely limit the practical applications of ZIBs. To address these issues, various strategies have been proposed, and tremendous progress has been achieved in the past few years. In this article, we analyze the origins and effects of the dendrites, corrosion, and HER on Zn anodes in neutral and mildly acid aqueous solutions at first. And then, a scientific understanding of the fundamental design principles and strategies to suppress these problems are emphasized. Apart from these, this article also puts forward some requirements for the practical applications of Zn anodes as well as several cost‐effective‐modifying strategies. Finally, perspectives on the future development of Zn anodes in aqueous solutions are also briefly anticipated. This article provides pertinent insights into the challenges on anodes for the development of high‐performance ZIBs, which will greatly contribute to their practical applications.
Distribution of acetylcholinesterase in the hippocampal formation of the Atlantic white‐sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus acutus)
Authors: Reid George Andrew , Darvesh Sultan
Published: August 2020

The cetacean hippocampal formation has been noted to be one of the smallest relative to brain size of all mammals studied. This region, comprised of the dentate gyrus, hippocampus proper, subiculum, presubiculum, parasubiculum and the entorhinal cortex, is important in learning, memory, and navigation. There have been a number of studies detailing the distribution of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the hippocampal formation of terrestrial mammals with the goal of gaining a greater understanding of some aspects of the cholinergic innervation to this region, as well as its parcellation. The present study was undertaken to describe the organization, cytoarchitecture, and distribution of AChE in the hippocampal formation of the Atlantic white‐sided dolphin (AWSD) with the view to understand similarities and differences between this aquatic mammal and terrestrial mammals. Nissl‐staining demonstrated cytoarchitecture of the hippocampal formation in the AWSD comparable to that reported in other cetaceans. In addition, the AWSD had a rich pattern of AChE staining that distinctly varied between regions and laminae. A number of differences in the distribution of AChE staining in areas comparable to those of terrestrial species reported suggested possible alterations in connectivity of this region. Overall, however, AChE‐staining suggested that cholinergic innervation, neural pathways and function of the hippocampal formation of the AWSD is conserved, similar to other mammals.
Code of ethics and workers' communication policies: The role of corporate governance
Authors: Furlotti Katia , Mazza Tatiana
Published: August 2020

A good monitoring that reduces agency conflicts can help in developing structured policies in code of ethics to help the social information processing for employees. The objective of this research is to investigate whether the corporate governance characteristics, such as duality, board of directors' size and independence as measures of monitor capacity are related to workers' communication policies disclosed in code of ethics. Based on a content analysis of code of ethics to define the latter polices and on regression analyses on 808 firm‐year observations, our results show that board of directors' independence is positively related to code of ethics policies related to communication with employees. Independence of the board is expression of supervising, supporting transparency and aiming to safeguard the best interests of all stakeholders, including employees.
Dehydrative Ring‐Opening of gem‐Difluorocyclopropyl Carbinols to Allylic Trifluoromethyl and Difluorohalomethyl Derivatives Promated by Titanium Tetrahalide
Authors: Ramasamy Manickavasakam , Kuo Sheng‐Chu , Hsieh Min‐Tsang
Published: August 2020

We report herein the titanium tetrahalide‐promoted dehydrative ring‐opening of gem‐difluorocyclopropyl carbinols as a novel method for the synthesis of (E)‐allylic CF3, (E)‐allylic CF2Cl, and (E)‐allylic CF2Br compounds. This TiF4‐promoted reaction appears to proceed via a concerted SN2' mechanism. A control experiment revealed that the TiCl4‐promoted ring‐opening initially proceeds by conversion of the gem‐difluorocyclopropyl carbinol into a gem‐difluorocyclopropyl chloride intermediate.
One‐pot Electrochemical Synthesis of Ni Nanoparticles‐decorated Electroreduced Graphene Oxide for Improved NADH Sensing
Authors: Urhan Bingül Kurt , Öztürk Doğan Hülya , Öznülüer Özer Tuba , Demir Ümit
Published: August 2020

Ni nanoparticles (NPs) decorated electrochemical reduced graphene oxide (NiNPs/ERGO) nanocomposites (NCs) on ITO electrode were successfully fabricated using one‐pot simultaneously electrochemical co‐reduction method at room temperature. The NiNPs/ERGO electrodes demonstrated very good electrocatalytic activity in the oxidation of NADH at a low oxidation potential (∼+430 mV), a wide linear range (1–500 μM), a calculated detection limit of 0.002 μM. Compared to ERGO and NiNPs electrodes, the synthesized NiNPs/ERGO NCs have high electrocatalytic activity due to synergistic effect emerged between NiNPs and ERGO. The results indicated that the NiNPs/ERGO NCs can be easily prepared by one‐pot electrochemical technique and NiNPs/ERGO could used to as potential biosensor for the NADH detection.
Application of hybrid simulation method for seismic performance evaluation of RC coupling beams subjected to realistic boundary condition
Authors: Park Jamin , Strepelias Elias , Stathas Nikos , Kwon Oh‐Sung , Bousias Stathis
Published: August 2020

In a building subjected to seismic loading, large compressive force may develop in reinforced concrete (RC) coupling beams because of axial restraint imposed by the neighboring shear walls against the elongation of the coupling beams during the failure process. The axially compressive force can increase the shear stiffness and strength of the coupling beam and may change its failure mode. In this paper, a novel coupling beam testing procedure adopting hybrid simulation method is proposed in which the axial restraint is determined through hybrid simulation and the calculated axial restraint is imposed on a specimen during the test. RC coupling beams were tested by adopting both the proposed test procedure and the conventional testing approach in which the effect of the axial restraint is not accounted for. Test results depict a clear difference in the response of the coupling beam, such as shear capacity and failure mode, depending on the consideration of the axial restraint during the test. The test outcome demonstrates the usefulness and applicability of the proposed test procedure.
Storage stability of soy protein isolate powders containing soluble protein aggregates formed at varying pH
Authors: Guo Fengxian , Lin Luan , He Zhiyong , Zheng Zong‐Ping
Published: August 2020

Soy protein is wildly used in food industry due to its high nutritional value and good functionalities. However, the poor storage stability of commercial soy protein products has puzzled both the producers and the users for a long time. The current study assessed the changes in protein solubility, aggregation, oxidation, and conformation of soy protein isolate (SPI) with various soluble aggregates formed at different pH values (pH 5–8) during storage. During storage, SPI samples showed a reduced protein solubility (p < .05), an increased protein oxidation (p < .05), and an attenuated conformational enthalpy (∆H). SPI with a higher pH produced more disulfide‐mediated aggregates at the expense of sulfhydryl groups and experienced greater losses of protein tertiary structure and a faster reduction in solubility. Yet, all samples nearly shared similar rising trend during 8‐week storage, which indicated the production of protein carbonyls was insensitive to pH. Soluble aggregates present in fresh SPI samples appeared to induce instability of SPI during storage. These findings suggested SPI prepared at pH 6 was in favor of its storage stability, and soluble aggregates presented in fresh samples should be paid more attention for further study of storage stability kinetics.
Polygenic modelling of treatment effect heterogeneity
Authors: Xu Zhi Ming , Burgess Stephen
Published: August 2020

Mendelian randomization is the use of genetic variants to assess the effect of intervening on a risk factor using observational data. We consider the scenario in which there is a pharmacomimetic (i.e., treatment‐mimicking) genetic variant that can be used as a proxy for a particular pharmacological treatment that changes the level of the risk factor. If the association of the pharmacomimetic genetic variant with the risk factor is stronger in one subgroup of the population, then we may expect the effect of the treatment to be stronger in that subgroup. We test for gene–gene interactions in the associations of variants with a modifiable risk factor, where one genetic variant is treated as pharmacomimetic and the other as an effect modifier, to find genetic subgroups of the population with different predicted response to treatment. If individual genetic variants that are strong effect modifiers cannot be found, moderating variants can be combined using a random forest of interaction trees method into a polygenic response score, analogous to a polygenic risk score for risk prediction. We illustrate the application of the method to investigate effect heterogeneity in the effect of statins on low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Mostly harmless regulation? Electronic cigarettes, public policy, and consumer welfare
Authors: Kenkel Donald S. , Peng Sida , Pesko Michael F. , Wang Hua
Published: August 2020

Electronic cigarettes are a less harmful alternative to combustible cigarettes. We analyze data on e‐cigarette choices in an online experimental market. Our data and mixed logit model capture two sources of consumer optimization errors: overestimates of the relative risks of e‐cigarettes and present bias. Our novel data and policy analysis make three contributions. First, our predictions about e‐cigarette use under counterfactual policy scenarios provide new information about current regulatory tradeoffs. Second, we provide empirical evidence about the role consumer optimization errors play in tobacco product choices. Third, we contribute to behavioral welfare analysis of policies that address individual optimization errors. Compared with standard cost–benefit analysis, our behavioral welfare economics analysis leads to much larger estimates of the costs of policies that discourage e‐cigarette use or the benefits of policies that encourage e‐cigarette use.
Sentiment‐Apt investors and UK sector returns
Authors: Sakariyahu Rilwan , Sherif Mohamed , Paterson Audrey , Chatzivgeri Eleni
Published: August 2020

This paper examines the relationship between sentiment‐apt investors and UK stock returns at industry level over the period January 1988 to December 2017. Using two new sentiment proxies (laggards to leaders and growth opportunity index) for 10 discrete sector groupings, we provide novel evidence on how returns in the UK stock market react to the activities of sentiment‐disposed investors. First, using threshold nonlinear regression, we document a significant relationship between the laggards to leaders sentiment proxy and sectoral returns. Our findings reveal that aggregate returns in the sector are affected by activities of investors who embark on profit‐taking when there is an increase in the proportion of lagging to leading stocks beyond the threshold value. Secondly, when using the growth opportunity sentiment proxy, we report that the increase in growth above the growth threshold value has a significant impact on sector returns. This study further confirms significant impact of non‐threshold variables on sector groupings. Our findings are robust, having been subjected to a range of robustness checks.
Immunomodulatory Therapeutic Proteins in COVID‐19: Current Clinical Development and Clinical Pharmacology Considerations
Authors: Ji Ping , Chen Jianmeng , Golding Amit , Nikolov Nikolay P. , Saluja Bhawana , Ren Yunzhao R. , Sahajwalla Chandrahas G.
Published: August 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic caused by infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 has led to more than 600 000 deaths worldwide. Patients with severe disease often experience acute respiratory distress characterized by upregulation of multiple cytokines. Immunomodulatory biological therapies are being evaluated in clinical trials for the management of the systemic inflammatory response and pulmonary complications in patients with advanced stages of COVID‐19. In this review, we summarize the clinical pharmacology considerations in the development of immunomodulatory therapeutic proteins for mitigating the heightened inflammatory response identified in COVID‐19.
Combined liver and multivisceral resections: A comparative analysis of short and long‐term outcomes
Authors: Júnior Sérgio S. , Coelho Fabricio F. , Tustumi Francisco , Cassenote Alex J. F. , Jeismann Vagner B. , Fonseca Gilton M. , Kruger Jaime A. P. , Ernani Lucas , Cecconello Ivan , Herman Paulo
Published: August 2020

Background

En bloc liver and adjacent organs resections are technically demanding procedures. Few case series and nonmatched comparative studies reported the outcomes of multivisceral liver resections (MLRs).

Objectives

To compare the short and long‐term outcomes of patients submitted MLRs with those submitted to isolated hepatectomies.

Methods

From a prospective database, a case‐matched 1:2 study was performed comparing MLRs and isolated hepatectomy. Additionally, a risk analysis was performed to evaluate the association between MLRs and perioperative morbidity, mortality, and long‐term survival.

Results

Fifty‐three MLRs were compared with 106 matched controls. Patients undergoing MLRs had longer operative time (430 [320‐525] vs 360 [270‐440] minutes, P = .005); higher estimated blood loss (600 [400‐800] vs 400 [100‐600] mL; P = .011); longer hospital stay (8 [6‐14] vs 7 [5‐9] days; P = .003); and higher postoperative mortality (9.4% vs 1.9%, P = .042). Number of resected organs was not an independent prognostic factor for perioperative major complications (odds ratio [OR], 1 organ = 1.8 [0.54‐6.05]; OR ≥ 2, organs = 4.0 [0.35‐13.84]) or perioperative mortality (OR, 1, organ = 5.2 [0.91‐29.51]; OR ≥ 2, organs = 6.5 [0.52‐79.60]). No differences in overall (P = .771) and disease‐free survival (P = .28) were observed.

Conclusion

MLRs are feasible with acceptable morbidity but relatively high perioperative mortality. MLRs did not negatively affect long‐term outcomes.
Enhanced Pulsed Dye Laser for Facial Rejuvenation
Authors: Victor Ross Edward , Chodkiewicz Hubert , Javvaji Srimanasi , Zumwalt Jonathan , Kutscher Tuvia D. , Tran Cassandra
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of an enhanced pulsed dye laser (PDL) for treatment of facial‐dyschromia.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Thirteen patients were enrolled in the study. Nine patients were female, four were male, with a mean age of 61 years. All patients presented with either facial telangiectasia, rosacea, pigment, or a combination thereof. At the initial evaluation, test spots were performed to determine the subject's response to selected treatment parameters. In the study, the enhanced 595 nm PDL deployed a spot size range of 5–12 mm with fluences ranging from 8 to 18 J/cm2. Pulse duration was 10 milliseconds. Enhancements in this device included the option for contact or cryogen spray cooling, increased maximum pulse energy, increased repetition rate, option for addition of radiofrequency (RF), an option for a 15 mm spot size, and longer dye life. The smaller spots were used only for focal low contrast pigmented lesions that persisted after overall facial treatment with the larger spot. Smaller fluences were applied for general rejuvenation with the 12 mm spot (mean ~9 J/cm2). Sapphire contact cooling was applied at 10°C. A smaller area of the skin was reserved (typically pre‐auricular area) for addition of RF energy just before the pulse (40–70 J/cm3) over 100 milliseconds with a 20 milliseconds delay between the end of the RF pulse and beginning of the laser pulse. The minimum fluence that achieved vessel closure/vessel bluing and/or slight immediate pigment darkening was applied based on test spots performed just before treatment to the entire face. Determinations of improvement were made by evaluation of photographs with standard settings using polarized and nonpolarized images. Up to three treatments were performed approximately 1 month apart with follow‐up visits 1 and 3 months after the final treatment.

Results

Evaluation by a panel of blind observers determined a mean clearance of at least 50% in all lesions, while 77% of lesions had 50–75% clearance, and 23% of lesions had 76–100% clearance. Pain was approximately 4/10. Subjective lesion improvement and satisfaction rates were 3 out of 4 and 3.6 out 4, respectively.

Conclusion

An enhanced PDL is effective in one pass treatments for facial rejuvenation with considerably less operative time than previous commercially available systems. A second pass applied to focal challenging lesions results in even more improvement, in a single treatment session. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Phylogeography of the marine pathogen, Vibrio vulnificus, revealed the ancestral scenarios of its evolution
Authors: Bisharat Naiel , Koton Yael , Oliver James D.
Published: August 2020

Vibrio vulnificus is the leading cause of seafood‐associated deaths worldwide. Despite the growing knowledge about the population structure of V. vulnificus, the evolutionary history and the ancestral relationships of strains isolated from various regions around the world have not been determined. Using the largest collection of sequence and isolate data of V. vulnificus to date, we applied ancestral character reconstruction to study the phylogeography of V. vulnificus. Multilocus sequence typing data from 10 housekeeping genes were used for the inference of ancestral states and reconstruction of the evolutionary history. The findings showed that the common ancestor of all V. vulnificus populations originated from East Asia, and later evolved into two main clusters that spread with time and eventually evolved into distinct populations in different parts of the world. While we found no meaningful insights concerning the evolution of V. vulnificus populations in the Middle East; however, we were able to reconstruct the ancestral scenarios of its evolution in East Asia, North America, and Western Europe.
Synthesis and properties of novel colorless and thermostable polyimides containing cross‐linkable bulky tetrafluorostyrol pendant group and organosoluble triphenylmethane backbone structure
Authors: Li Bin , Yan Ziran , Zhang Tianyong , Jiang Shuang , Wang Kaijun , Wang Di , Liu Yiwei
Published: August 2020

A colorless and high temperature resistant fluorinated polyimide (PI) film based on a novel cross‐linkable diamine monomer 4,4′‐diamino‐4″‐(2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐4‐ethylenephenoxy) triphenylmethane (DFPTM) was successfully prepared. The special triphenylmethane backbone and the bulky tetrafluorostyrol pendant group in DFPTM gave the PI material eximious solubility in organic solvents, high tensile properties, good thermal stability, and excellent optical transparency (cutoff wavelength for 331 nm and light transmittance above 94% at 450 nm). Furthermore, the styryl could initiate self‐crosslinking reaction to form a dense three‐dimensional network structure by thermal curing. Hence, the cross‐linked PI film showed superior combination property (including excellent resistance to solvents). It's Tg increased by 57.1–306.0°C, the 5% thermal weight‐loss temperature improved by 10.2% to 500.0°C, and the tensile strength enhanced by 17.5% to 39.7 MPa. Moreover, after thermal curing, the cross‐linked PI attained a lower elongation at break from 8.1 to 3.9%, and the thermal expansion coefficient reduced from 82.2 to 68.8 ppm/°C without obvious loss of optical transparency (cutoff wavelength for 347 nm and light transmittance remained 93.0% at 450 nm).
Shikonin is a novel and selective IMPDH2 inhibitor that target triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Wang Wanyan , Wu Yu , Chen Si , Liu Xi , He Jiacheng , Wang Shuyi , Lu Weiqiang , Tang Yong , Huang Jin
Published: August 2020

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is heterogeneous disease with a poor prognosis. It is therefore important to explore novel therapeutic agents to improve the clinical efficacy for TNBC. The inosine 5′‐monophosphate dehydrogenase 2 (IMPDH2) is a rate‐limiting enzyme in the de novo synthesis of guanine nucleotides. It is always overexpressed in many types of tumors, including TNBC and regarded as a potential target for cancer therapy. Through screening a library of natural products, we identified shikonin, a natural bioactive component of Lithospermum erythrorhizon, is a novel and selective IMPDH2 inhibitor. Enzymatic analysis using Lineweaver–Burk plot indicates that shikonin is a competitive inhibitor of IMPDH2. The interaction between shikonin and IMDPH2 was further investigated by thermal shift assay, fluorescence quenching, and molecular docking simulation. Shikonin treatment effectively inhibits the growth of human TNBC cell line MDA‐MB‐231, and murine TNBC cell line, 4T1 in a dose‐dependent manner, which is impaired by exogenous supplementation of guanosine, a salvage pathway of purine nucleotides. Most importantly, IMPDH2 knockdown significantly reduced cell proliferation and conferred resistance to shikonin in TNBC. Collectively, our findings showed the natural product shikonin as a selective inhibitor of IMPDH2 with anti‐TNBC activity, impelling its further study in clinical trials.
A High-Order Discontinuous Galerkin Solver for Multiphase Flows
Authors: Manzanero Juan , Redondo Carlos , Rubio Gonzalo , Ferrer Esteban , Valero Eusebio , Gómez-Álvarez Susana , Rivero-Jiménez Ángel
Published: August 2020

We present a multiphase model for incompressible flows of two immiscible fluids. Our model solves one shared set of incompressible Navier–Stokes equations for the two phase flow and an additional equation: the Cahn–Hilliard equation, for the evolution of the two fluids distribution. The introduced model is discretised in space using a high-order Discontinuous Galerkin Spectral Element Method (DGSEM). Time discretisation is performed by means of an efficient implicit-explicit approach that enables to maintain the time step restriction of a typical one phase Navier–Stokes solver. We show the validity and efficiency of our model and implementation in two classical two-dimensional test cases: the spinodal decomposition and the rising bubble.
Mathematiklehrveranstaltung neu – digital und invertiert
Authors: Peterfi Marc , Daniel Manfred
Published: August 2020

Studierende im ersten Semester stehen in MINT-Fächern vor der Herausforderung, den Übergang von der Schulmathematik zur Hochschulmathematik zu meistern. Im Projekt optes wird das Ziel verfolgt, die Studierenden bei diesem Übergang zu unterstützen. Dieser betrifft nicht nur die Zeit vor der Aufnahme des Studiums, sondern im Besonderen auch die ersten Semester in einem Studiengang mit mathematischen Lehranteilen.
Schlusswort
Authors: Mersch André
Published: August 2020

Auf welchem Wege auch immer Sie sich die Beiträge erschlossen haben - linear oder kreuz und quer - wir hoffen, Sie sind reicher geworden. Mindestens an Erkenntnis, im Idealfall an Erfahrung durch den Einsatz der Konzepte und Materialien.
Structure constants in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM at finite coupling as worldsheet g-function
Authors: Jiang Yunfeng , Komatsu Shota , Vescovi Edoardo
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We develop a novel nonperturbative approach to a class of three-point functions in planar$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 4 SYM based on Thermodynamic Bethe Ansatz (TBA). More specifically, we study three-point functions of a non-BPS single-trace operator and two determinant operators dual to maximal Giant Graviton D-branes in AdS5×S5. They correspond to disk one-point functions on the worldsheet and admit a simpler and more powerful integrability description than the standard single-trace three-point functions. We first introduce two new methods to efficiently compute such correlators at weak coupling; one based on largeNcollective fields, which provides an example of open-closed-open duality discussed by Gopakumar, and the other based on combinatorics. The results so obtained exhibit a simple determinant structure and indicate that the correlator can be interpreted as a generalization ofg-functions in 2d QFT; an overlap between an integrable boundary state and a state corresponding to the single-trace operator. We then determine the boundary state at finite coupling using the symmetry, the crossing equation and the boundary Yang-Baxter equation. With the resulting boundary state, we derive the ground-stateg-function based on TBA and conjecture its generalization to other states. This is the first fully nonperturbative proposal for the structure constants of operators of finite length. The results are tested extensively at weak and strong couplings. Finally, we point out that determinant operators can provide better probes of sub-AdS locality than single-trace operators and discuss possible applications.
Completing the Classification of Representations of SLn with Complete Intersection Invariant Ring
Authors: BRAUN LUKAS
Published: August 2020

We present a full list of all representations of the special linear group SLnover the complex numbers with complete intersection invariant ring of homological dimension greater than or equal to two, completing the classification of Shmelkin. For this task, we combine three techniques. Firstly, the graph method for invariants of SLndeveloped by the author to compute invariants, covariants and explicit forms of syzygies. Secondly, a new algorithm for finding a monomial order such that a certain basis of an ideal is a Gröbner basis with respect to this order, in between usual Gröbner basis computation and computation of the Gröbner fan. Lastly, a modification of an algorithm by Xin for MacMahon partition analysis to compute Hilbert series.
A Fundamental Class for Intersection Spaces of Depth One Witt Spaces
Authors: Wrazidlo Dominik J.
Published: August 2020

By a theorem of Banagl–Chriestenson, intersection spaces of depth one pseudomanifolds exhibit generalized Poincaré duality of Betti numbers, provided that certain characteristic classes of the link bundles vanish. In this paper, we show that the middle-perversity intersection space of a depth one Witt space can be completed to a rational Poincaré duality space by means of a single cell attachment, provided that a certain rational Hurewicz homomorphism associated to the link bundles is surjective. Our approach continues previous work of Klimczak covering the case of isolated singularities with simply connected links. For every singular stratum, we show that our condition on the rational Hurewicz homomorphism implies that the Banagl–Chriestenson characteristic classes of the link bundle vanish. Moreover, using Sullivan minimal models, we show that the converse implication holds at least in the case that twice the dimension of the singular stratum is bounded by the dimension of the link. As an application, we compare the signature of our rational Poincaré duality space to the Goresky–MacPherson intersection homology signature of the given Witt space. We discuss our results for a class of Witt spaces having circles as their singular strata.
Influence of Operative Time in the Results of Infrainguinal Bypass for Chronic Limb Threatening Ischemia
Authors: Almorza Cristina , Marcos Lidia , Diaz Carles , Galarza Andrés , Casajuana Eduard , Mateos Eduard , Clara Albert
Published: August 2020

Background

An increased operative time (OT) has been associated with a higher rate of adverse outcomes after several surgical procedures although scarce evidence exists for infrainguinal bypass surgery (IBS) and its impact beyond the postoperative period. The aim of this study was to define surgical characteristics related to a prolonged OT in IBS for chronic limb threatening ischemia and its influence on postoperative and 1‐year outcomes.

Materials and methods

Retrospective study of 249 consecutive patients (mean age 72.4 years, 73.1% male) undergoing IBS for CLI between 2008 and 2018. The characteristics related to the duration of surgery and its impact on outcome were assessed with a multiple linear regression and a multivariate logistic regression, respectively.

Results

Interventions associated with a prolonged OT included the bypass to a below‐the‐knee artery (additional 36 min, p = 0.002), the need for an alternative vein or a hybrid PTFE‐vein graft (additional 37 min, p = 0.02) and inflow associated procedures (additional 47 min, p < 0.001). OT was associated with a higher rate of postoperative complications (OR for each additional 30 min 1.123, 95% CI 1.021–1.234) and need for a sociosanitary facility at discharge (OR 1.143, 95% CI 1.033–1.265). At 1‐year of follow‐up, OT was related to a higher major amputation rate (OR 1.201, 95% CI 1.036–1.393) and non‐significantly to mortality (OR 1.125, 95% CI 0.999–1.268).

Conclusions

A prolonged OT is a risk factor for adverse outcomes after IBS that extends beyond the immediate postoperative period. Further research is needed to evaluate how an expected high OT might influence decision‐making.
Complicated Diaphragmatic Hernia in Emergency Surgery: Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Perrone Gennaro , Giuffrida Mario , Annicchiarico Alfredo , Bonati Elena , Del Rio Paolo , Testini Mario , Catena Fausto
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Complicated diaphragmatic hernia (DH) can be congenital or acquired. Congenital diaphragmatic hernias (CDH) are rare and often can be asymptomatic until adulthood. Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia (TDH) is a complication that occurs in about 1–5% of victims of road accidents and in 10–15% of penetrating traumas of the lower chest. CDH and TDH are potentially life‐threatening conditions, and the management in emergency setting still debated. This study aims to evaluate the surgical treatment options in emergency setting.

Methods

A bibliographic research reporting the item “emergency surgery” linked with “traumatic diaphragmatic rupture” and “congenital diaphragmatic hernia” was performed. Several parameters were recorded including sex, age, etiology, diagnosis, treatment, site and herniated organs.

Results

The research included 146 articles, and 1542 patients were analyzed. Most of the complicated diaphragmatic hernias occurred for a diaphragmatic defect due to trauma, only 7.2% occurred for a congenital diaphragmatic defect. The main diagnostic method used was chest X‐ray and CT scan. Laparotomic approach still remains predominant compared to the minimally invasive approach.

Conclusion

Surgery is the treatment of choice and is strongly influenced by the preoperative setting, performed mainly with X‐ray and CT scan. Minimally invasive approach is safe and feasible but is highly dependent on the surgeon's expertise, especially in emergency setting.
COVID-19 among heart transplant recipients in Germany: a multicenter survey
Authors: Rivinius Rasmus , Kaya Ziya , Schramm René , Boeken Udo , Provaznik Zdenek , Heim Christian , Knosalla Christoph , Schoenrath Felix , Rieth Andreas , Berchtold-Herz Michael , Barten Markus J. , Rauschning Dominic , Mücke Victoria T. , Heyl Stephan , Pistulli Rudin , Grinninger Carola , Hagl Christian , Gummert Jan F. , Warnecke Gregor , Schulze P. Christian , Katus Hugo A. , Kreusser Michael M. , Raake Philip W.
Published: August 2020

Aims

Heart transplantation may represent a particular risk factor for severe coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to chronic immunosuppression and frequent comorbidities. We conducted a nation-wide survey of all heart transplant centers in Germany presenting the clinical characteristics of heart transplant recipients with COVID-19 during the first months of the pandemic in Germany.

Methods and results

A multicenter survey of all heart transplant centers in Germany evaluating the current status of COVID-19 among adult heart transplant recipients was performed. A total of 21 heart transplant patients with COVID-19 was reported to the transplant centers during the first months of the pandemic in Germany. Mean patient age was 58.6 ± 12.3 years and 81.0% were male. Comorbidities included arterial hypertension (71.4%), dyslipidemia (71.4%), diabetes mellitus (33.3%), chronic kidney failure requiring dialysis (28.6%) and chronic-obstructive lung disease/asthma (19.0%). Most patients received an immunosuppressive drug regimen consisting of a calcineurin inhibitor (71.4%), mycophenolate mofetil (85.7%) and steroids (71.4%). Eight of 21 patients (38.1%) displayed a severe course needing invasive mechanical ventilation. Those patients showed a high mortality (87.5%) which was associated with right ventricular dysfunction (62.5% vs. 7.7%; p = 0.014), arrhythmias (50.0% vs. none; p = 0.012), and thromboembolic events (50.0% vs. none; p = 0.012). Elevated high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T- and N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide were significantly associated with the severe form of COVID-19 (p = 0.017 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Severe course of COVID-19 was frequent in heart transplanted patients. High mortality was associated with right ventricular dysfunction, arrhythmias, thromboembolic events, and markedly elevated cardiac biomarkers.