bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hip disarticulation with pedicled total leg fillet flap for recurrent fungating sarcoma
Authors: Nazemi Alireza K , Bui Duc T , Oberly Susannah , Khan Fazel A
Published: March 2020

Soft tissue sarcomas may be treated with limb-sparing procedures in the majority of cases; however, certain cases involving significant tumor spread and fungation may call for amputation. In the thigh, hip disarticulation typically involves a pedicled gluteus maximus flap or a pedicled anterior quadriceps flap. In this case report, we describe a rare situation in which the anterior flap, posterior flap, and adductor flap musculature were contaminated with tumor; therefore, a hip disarticulation was performed applying a pedicled total leg fillet flap for closure. Eighteen months after treatment, the patient continues to have no local recurrence of disease, a stable flap site, and ambulates with a walker. We present this amputation and closure method as a potentially effective modality in treating extensive oncologic disease of the proximal lower extremity.
Suture versus screw fixation technique for tibial eminence fracture: A meta-analysis of laboratory studies
Authors: Ye Mao , Chen Jun , Hu Feng , Liu Yanxi , Tan Yang
Published: March 2020

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties between the suture fixation technique and the screw fixation technique for tibial eminence fracture (TEF).

Methods:

The current study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane were searched from inception to January 2019 comparing the suture and the screw fixation technique for TEF. The results of the eligible studies were analyzed in terms of stiffness, ultimate failure load, and displacement after the cyclic testing.

Results:

Six laboratory studies were included with a total of 114 knees: 57 knees were in the FiberWire suture group and 57 knees were in the single-screw group. The suture group had higher stiffness than the screw group, but there was no statistical difference between these two groups. Ultimate failure load in the suture group was statistically higher than that in the screw group. No statistically significant difference existed in displacement after the cyclic testing between the suture group and the screw group.

Conclusion:

The FiberWire suture fixation may be biomechanically superior to a single screw fixation in TEF treatment in mature knees regarding ultimate failure load, while no significant difference was found between the two fixations in terms of stiffness and displacement after the cyclic testing.
The Use of Executive Orders and Proclamations to Create Immigration Policy: Trump in Historical Perspective
Authors: Waslin Michele
Published: March 2020

Executive Summary

This article examines presidential immigration policy making through executive orders (EOs) and proclamations. Donald Trump’s overall volume of EOs has been remarkably similar to that of other presidents, while his number of proclamations has been relatively high. His immigration-related EOs and proclamations, however, diverge from those of his predecessors in several ways. Of the 56 immigration-related EOs and 64 proclamations issued since 1945, Trump has issued 10 and nine, respectively. Overall, about 1 percent of all EOs and proclamations during this period have been immigration related, compared to 8 percent of Trump’s EOs and 2.4 percent of Trump’s proclamations.

In a sharp departure from previous presidents, a greater share of his EOs and proclamations have been substantive policy-making documents intended to restrict admissions of legal immigrants and increase enforcement along the border and in the interior of the United States. This article explores Trump’s unorthodox use of executive tools to make immigration policy, circumventing Congress and even members of his own administration. It recommends that: Congress should hold oversight hearings and should consider revoking or modifying EOs and proclamations that have been issued pursuant to the authority provided to the president by Congress, as opposed to those based on the executive’s constitutional authority. Advocacy organizations should continue to challenge the president’s executive actions, the insufficient process and consultation leading to them, their statutory or constitutional justification, and their impact. Congress should take an inventory of the immigration authorities it has delegated, both explicitly and implicitly, to the executive branch and determine when this authority can and should be limited. Congress should pass legislation to update and reform the US immigration system, and thus clarify its intentions regarding US immigration law, policy, and executive authority in this area.
Measuring urban form: Overcoming terminological inconsistencies for a quantitative and comprehensive morphologic analysis of cities
Authors: Fleischmann Martin , Romice Ombretta , Porta Sergio
Published: March 2020

Unprecedented urbanisation processes characterise the Great Acceleration, urging urban researchers to make sense of data analysis in support of evidence-based and large-scale decision-making. Urban morphologists are no exception since the impact of urban form on fundamental natural and social patterns (equity, prosperity and resource consumption’s efficiency) is now fully acknowledged. However, urban morphology is still far from offering a comprehensive and reliable framework for quantitative analysis. Despite remarkable progress since its emergence in the late 1950s, the discipline still exhibits significant terminological inconsistencies with regards to the definition of the fundamental components of urban form, which prevents the establishment of objective models for measuring it. In this article, we present a study of existing methods for measuring urban form, with a focus on terminological inconsistencies, and propose a systematic and comprehensive framework to classify urban form characters, where ‘urban form character’ stands for a characteristic (or feature) of one kind of urban form that distinguishes it from another kind. In particular, we introduce the Index of Elements that allows for a univocal and non-interpretive description of urban form characters. Based on such Index of Elements, we develop a systematic classification of urban form according to six categories (dimension, shape, spatial distribution, intensity, connectivity and diversity) and three conceptual scales (small, medium, large) based on two definitions of scale (extent and grain). This framework is then applied to identify and organise the urban form characters adopted in available literature to date. The resulting classification of urban form characters reveals clear gaps in existing research, in particular, in relation to the spatial distribution and diversity characters. The proposed framework reduces the current inconsistencies of urban morphology research, paving the way to enhanced methods of urban form systematic and quantitative analysis at a global scale.
In the Quest for a Different World: Viramma and the Depictions of Dalit Womanhood
Authors: Basu Raj Sekhar
Published: March 2020

The article deals with the life experiences of a Dalit woman Viramma, who hails from an interior rural locality of Tami Nadu bordering Pondicherry. In course of her daily conversations with Josiane Racine, a French ethnomusicologist, Viramma shares the different facets of her life, which is conditioned by her own caste and class locations. Viramma’s narrative is very different from the version of the Western-educated or the English-educated Indian feminist activists and scholars who often rule out the compromises which seem to be favoured by Viramma and many of her generation. As the wife of a Dalit agricultural worker and herself also employed in the same sort of labouring occupation, Viramma seems to come out often with two apparently contradictory sets of responses, one of protest and the other of reconciliation. She makes it amply clear that as a Paraiyar woman living on the wages offered by the powerful Reddiar landlords, it is difficult to think of creating a situation of the world being turned upside down. This possibly encourages her to look into the other sides of life whether it be that of developments in familial life, ceremonies, rituals or that of popular beliefs centring around ghosts and goblins. Viramma also talks of politics and proves beyond all doubt that the Dalit women do not always need the agency of feminist activists belonging to the privileged groups to voice their protests.
Outcomes Following Ankle Fracture Fixation With or Without Ankle Arthroscopy
Authors: Smith Kenneth S. , Drexelius Katherine , Challa Shanthan , Moon Daniel K. , Metzl Joshua A. , Hunt Kenneth J.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Ankle fractures are one of the most common orthopedic injuries, and although most patients have a satisfactory outcome following operative fixation, there are patients that have persistent pain despite anatomic reduction. Intra-articular injuries have been suggested as one potential cause of these suboptimal outcomes. Our study assesses the clinical impact of performing an ankle arthroscopy during ankle fracture open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF).

Methods:

This was a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent operative fixation of a bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fracture at our institution from 2014 through 2018. We extracted all demographic data, fracture pattern, operative procedures performed, tourniquet times, arthroscopic findings and any arthroscopic interventions. We then conducted a phone and e-mail survey. Our study included 213 total patients (142 traditional ORIF, 71 ORIF plus arthroscopy) with an average age of 40 years. The average follow-up was 32.4 months with a survey follow-up rate of 50.7% (110/213).

Results:

The average tourniquet time for the arthroscopy cohort was 10 minutes longer (89 minutes vs 79 minutes). During the arthroscopy, there was a 28% (20/71) rate of full-thickness osteochondral lesions, 33% (24/71) rate of loose bodies, and a 49% (35/71) rate of partial-thickness cartilage injury. The mean Patient Reported Outcome Information System (PROMIS) physical function score among Weber B fibula fractures was 45.8 and 42.3 in the arthroscopy and nonarthroscopy groups, respectively ( P = .012). In addition, the patient satisfaction rate in Weber B fibula fractures was higher in those patients who underwent arthroscopy compared with ORIF alone (93% vs 75%, P = .05). Patients who had a tibiotalar joint dislocation at the time of the ankle fracture had a significantly higher PROMIS physical function score (46.6 vs 40.2, P = .005) when their surgery included arthroscopy.

Conclusion:

Ankle arthroscopy at the time of ORIF led to statistically significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes for Weber B fibula fractures and ankle dislocations. There was no increase in complication rates and the arthroscopy took 10 minutes longer on average.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Talar Osteonecrosis After Subchondroplasty for Acute Lateral Ligament Injuries: Case Series
Authors: Foran Ian M. , Bohl Daniel D. , Vora Anand M. , Mehraban Nasima , Hamid Kamran S. , Lee Simon
Published: March 2020

Talar osteonecrosis is a well-described phenomenon following talar neck fracture, but is a rarely described complication after procedures about the foot and ankle. Here we describe the clinical course of 5 cases of talar osteonecrosis following injection of calcium phosphate into the talus (subchondroplasty) with or without acute lateral ligament repair after acute lateral ankle ligament injuries performed at an outside institution. Practitioners should be aware of this potentially devastating complication. Future research is indicated to determine the safety and efficacy of subchondroplasty for the talus.

Level of Evidence:

Level V, case series.
Copanlisib synergizes with conventional and targeted agents including venetoclax in B- and T-cell lymphoma models
Authors: Tarantelli Chiara , Lange Martin , Gaudio Eugenio , Cascione Luciano , Spriano Filippo , Kwee Ivo , Arribas Alberto J. , Rinaldi Andrea , Jourdan Thibaud , Berthold Melanie , Sturz Andrea , Sperl Carolyn , Margheriti Francesco , Scalise Lorenzo , Gritti Giuseppe , Rossi Davide , Stathis Anastasios , Liu Ningshu , Zucca Emanuele , Politz Oliver , Bertoni Francesco
Published: March 2020

Copanlisib is a pan–class I phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor with preferred activity toward PI3Kα and PI3Kδ. Despite the clear overall clinical benefit, the number of patients achieving complete remissions with the single agent is relatively low, a problem shared by the vast majority of targeted agents. Here, we searched for novel copanlisib-based combinations. Copanlisib was tested as a single agent, in combination with an additional 17 drugs in 26 cell lines derived from mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), marginal zone lymphoma (MZL), and T-cell lymphomas. In vivo experiments, transcriptome analyses, and immunoblotting experiments were also performed. Copanlisib as a single agent showed in vitro dose-dependent antitumor activity in the vast majority of the models. Combination screening identified several compounds that synergized with copanlisib. The strongest combination was with the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) inhibitor venetoclax. The benefit of the combination over single agents was also validated in an MZL xenograft model and in MCL primary cells, and was due to increased induction of apoptosis, an effect likely sustained by the reduction of the antiapoptotic proteins myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL1) and BCL-XL, observed in MCL and MZL cell lines, respectively. These data supported the rationale for the design of the Swiss Group for Clinical Cancer Research (SAKK) 66/18 phase 1 study currently exploring the combination of copanlisib and venetoclax in relapsed/refractory lymphomas.
Molecular pathogenesis of progression to myeloid leukemia from TET-insufficient status
Authors: Shrestha Raksha , Sakata-Yanagimoto Mamiko , Maie Koichiro , Oshima Motohiko , Ishihara Masatomo , Suehara Yasuhito , Fukumoto Kota , Nakajima-Takagi Yaeko , Matsui Hirotaka , Kato Takayasu , Muto Hideharu , Sakamoto Tatsuhiro , Kusakabe Manabu , Nannya Yasuhito , Makishima Hideki , Ueno Hiroo , Saiki Ryunosuke , Ogawa Seishi , Chiba Kenichi , Shiraishi Yuichi , Miyano Satoru , Mouly Enguerran , Bernard Olivier A. , Inaba Toshiya , Koseki Haruhiko , Iwama Atsushi , Chiba Shigeru
Published: March 2020

Loss-of-function mutations in ten-eleven translocation-2 (TET2) are recurrent events in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) as well as in preleukemic hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) of age-related clonal hematopoiesis. TET3 mutations are infrequent in AML, but the level of TET3 expression in HSCs has been found to decline with age. We examined the impact of gradual decrease of TET function in AML development by generating mice with Tet deficiency at various degrees. Tet2f/f and Tet3f/f mice were crossed with mice expressing Mx1-Cre to generate Tet2f/wtTet3f/fMx-Cre+ (T2ΔT3), Tet2f/fTet3f/wtMx-Cre+ (ΔT2T3), and Tet2f/fTet3f/fMx-Cre+ (ΔT2ΔT3) mice. All ΔT2ΔT3 mice died of aggressive AML at a median survival of 10.7 weeks. By comparison, T2ΔT3 and ΔT2T3 mice developed AML at longer latencies, with a median survival of ∼27 weeks. Remarkably, all 9 T2ΔT3 and 8 ΔT2T3 mice with AML showed inactivation of the remaining nontargeted Tet2 or Tet3 allele, respectively, owing to exonic loss in either gene or stop-gain mutations in Tet3. Recurrent mutations other than Tet3 were not noted in any mice by whole-exome sequencing. Spontaneous inactivation of residual Tet2 or Tet3 alleles is a recurrent genetic event during the development of AML with Tet insufficiency.
Rituximab/bendamustine and rituximab/cytarabine induction therapy for transplant-eligible mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Merryman Reid W. , Edwin Natasha , Redd Robert , Bsat Jad , Chase Matthew , LaCasce Ann , Freedman Arnold , Jacobson Caron , Fisher David , Ng Samuel , Crombie Jennifer , Kim Austin , Odejide Oreofe , Davids Matthew S. , Brown Jennifer R. , Jacene Heather , Cashen Amanda , Bartlett Nancy L. , Mehta-Shah Neha , Ghobadi Armin , Kahl Brad , Joyce Robin , Armand Philippe , Jacobsen Eric
Published: March 2020

The addition of high-dose cytarabine to rituximab/bendamustine (RB) induction could improve outcomes for transplant-eligible patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). We conducted a pooled analysis of 2 phase 2 trials and an off-trial cohort each testing 3 cycles of RB and 3 cycles of rituximab/high-dose cytarabine (RC) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) among untreated, transplant-eligible patients with MCL. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) and Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) led separate phase 2 trials testing sequential and alternating cycles of RB/RC, respectively. Patients treated at DFCI with sequential RB/RC off trial were retrospectively identified. Minimal residual disease (MRD) was assessed in the DFCI trial. A total of 88 patients (23 DFCI trial, 18 WUSTL trial, and 47 off trial) received RB/RC; 92% of patients completed induction, and 84% underwent planned consolidative ASCT. Grade 3 or 4 adverse events among trial patients included lymphopenia (88%), thrombocytopenia (85%), neutropenia (83%), and febrile neutropenia (15%). There were no treatment-related deaths during induction and 2 following ASCT. Among 87 response-evaluable patients, the end-of-induction overall and complete response rates were 97% and 90%, respectively. After a median follow-up of 33 months, 3-year progression-free survival and overall survival were 83% and 92%, respectively. Patients undergoing MRD testing experienced prolonged MRD negativity after ASCT with emergence of MRD occurring in only 1 patient who subsequently relapsed. RB/RC followed by ASCT achieves high rates of durable remissions in transplant-eligible patients with MCL. These trials were registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01661881 (DFCI trial) and #NCT02728531 (WUSTL trial).
The influence of blood on the human gut microbiome
Authors: Chénard Thierry , Malick Mandy , Dubé Jean , Massé Eric
Published: March 2020

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the prevailing causes of cancer mortality in the world. A common screening test for CRC is based on the human hemoglobin immunochemical based fecal occult blood test (iFOBT), which consists in the detection of blood in the patient’s stool. In addition to iFOBT, recent studies support the use of the gut microbiome as a biomarker for CRC prediction. However, these studies did not take into account the effect of blood itself on the microbiome composition, independently of CRC. Therefore, we investigated the microbiome of patients undergoing the iFOBT screening in order to determine the effect of blood alone. Our cohort consisted of patients who had no blood in their stools (n = 265) or did have blood but no underlying precancerous or cancerous lesions (n = 235). We also identified bacterial taxa specifically associated with the presence of blood in stools.

Results

We observed significant differences in the intestinal bacterial composition that could be solely caused by the presence of blood in stools. More precisely, we identified 12 bacterial species showing significant differences in abundance between both our study groups. These species, Bacteroides uniformis, Collinsella aerofaciens, Eggerthella lenta and Clostridium symbiosum demonstrated increased abundance in the presence of blood. In contrast, the species Prevotella copri, Coprococcus eutactus and catus, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Roseburia faecis, Blautia obeum, Gemmiger formicilis and Clostridium celatum showed decreased abundance in patients with blood in their stools. Notably, we found multiple taxa that were reported in previous studies linking microbiome composition and diseases.

Conclusions

We show that, in the absence of disease, blood in the stools has a major influence on the composition of the microbiome. Our data suggest that blood itself should be taken into consideration when investigating the microbiome signatures of intestinal diseases.
Cardiac surgical outcome prediction by blood pressure variability indices Poincaré plot and coefficient of variation: a retrospective study
Authors: Packiasabapathy Senthil , Prasad Varesh , Rangasamy Valluvan , Popok David , Xu Xinling , Novack Victor , Subramaniam Balachundhar
Published: March 2020

Background

Recent literature suggests a significant association between blood pressure variability (BPV) and postoperative outcomes after cardiac surgery. However, its outcome prediction ability remains unclear. Current prediction models use static preoperative patient factors. We explored the ability of Poincaré plots and coefficient of variation (CV) by measuring intraoperative BPV in predicting adverse outcomes.

Methods

In this retrospective, observational, cohort study, 3687 adult patients (> 18 years) undergoing cardiac surgery requiring cardio-pulmonary bypass from 2008 to 2014 were included. Blood pressure variability was computed by Poincare plots and CV. Standard descriptors (SD) SD1, SD2 were measured with Poincare plots by ellipse fitting technique. The outcomes analyzed were the 30-day mortality and postoperative renal failure. Logistic regression models adjusted for preoperative and surgical factors were constructed to evaluate the association between BPV parameters and outcomes. C-statistics were used to analyse the predictive ability.

Results

Analysis found that, 99 (2.7%) patients died within 30 days and 105 (2.8%) patients suffered from in-hospital renal failure. Logistic regression models including BPV parameters (standard descriptors from Poincare plots and CV) performed poorly in predicting postoperative 30-day mortality and renal failure [Concordance(C)-Statistic around 0.5]. They did not add any significant value to the standard STS risk score [C-statistic: STS alone 0.7, STS + BPV parmeters 0.7].

Conclusions

In conclusion, BP variability computed from Poincare plots and CV were not predictive of mortality and renal failure in cardiac surgical patients. Patient comorbid conditions and other preoperative factors are still the gold standard for outcome prediction. Future directions include analysis of dynamic parameters such as complexity of physiological signals in identifying high risk patients and tailoring management accordingly.
Bone complications in patients with multiple myeloma in five European countries: a retrospective patient chart review
Authors: Mateos María-Victoria , Fink Leah , Koneswaran Niranchana , Intorcia Michele , Giannopoulou Christina , Niepel Daniela , Cavo Michele
Published: March 2020

Background

Bone complications (pathologic fracture, spinal cord compression, surgery to bone and radiation to bone) are a common problem in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). We set out to provide insights into the real-world burden of bone complications in patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of medical charts of patients with NDMM whose disease had progressed following first-line treatment in the 3 months before data collection in 2016 in five European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom).

Results

The aggregated study population included 813 patients. Bone pain commonly led to MM diagnosis (63%) and 74% of all patients had two or more bone lesions at initiation of first-line treatment. Furthermore, 26% of patients experienced a new bone complication between MM diagnosis and disease progression following first-line treatment, despite 75% of individuals receiving bisphosphonates. Most bone complications (52%) occurred in the period before initiation of first-line treatment (mean duration: 2.3 months) and more than half of patients (56%) who experienced a new bone complication were hospitalised. Analgesics were used more frequently in patients with bone complications than in those without them (76% vs 50%, respectively). Furthermore, 51% of patients had renal impairment by the time first-line treatment was started. Overall, 25% of patients did not receive bisphosphonates for prevention of bone complications and one in four of those with renal impairment at initiation of first-line treatment did not receive bisphosphonates.

Conclusions

Bone complications are common in patients with NDMM. They are frequently associated with hospitalization and analgesic use. Data from this study, conducted in the era of novel anti-myeloma therapies and before the approval of denosumab for use in patients with MM, suggest that although most patients (75%) received bisphosphonates, use of anti-resorptive therapy for prevention of bone complications may be suboptimal in patients with NDMM, irrespective of renal function.
Physical function in patients newly diagnosed with multiple myeloma; a Danish cohort study
Authors: Larsen Rikke Faebo , Jarden Mary , Minet Lisbeth Rosenbek , Frølund Ulf Christian , Möller Sören , Abildgaard Niels
Published: March 2020

Background

Multiple myeloma is a cancer in the bone marrow causing bone destruction. Patients experience various symptoms related to the disease and/or treatment, such as pain and fatigue, leading to poorer quality of life. The symptom burden might affect physical function and physical activity levels, posing a risk of physical deterioration. The aim was to investigate whether physical function in newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma differs from the reference values of the normal population and other cancer patients.

Methods

The study is a cross sectional descriptive analysis of a prospective cohort of 100 patients newly diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Four physical function tests were carried out; Six-Minute-Walk-Test, Sit-to-Stand-Test, grip strength and knee extension strength. Age and gender specific results of physical function from the multiple myeloma population were compared to normative data and to data from other cancer populations.

Results

Of the 100 patients included, 73% had bone disease and 55% received pain relieving medicine. Mean age was 67.7 years (SD 10.3). Patients with multiple myeloma had significantly poorer physical function compared to normative data, both regarding aerobic capacity and muscle strength, although not grip strength. No differences in physical function were found between patients with multiple myeloma and other cancer populations.

Conclusions

Physical function in newly diagnosed Danish patients with multiple myeloma is lower than in the normal population. Exercise intervention studies are warranted to explore the value of physical exercise on physical function.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, ID NCT02439112, registered 8 May 2015.
A girl with protein-losing enteropathy during a ketogenic diet: a case report
Authors: Wang Juan , Jiang Li , Cheng Min
Published: March 2020

Background

A ketogenic diet (KD) is an effective treatment for intractable epilepsy in children. Protein–losing enteropathy (PLE) is a rarely reported but serious complication of KDs.

Case presentation

A 3-month-old female patient presented with PLE while following a KD as treatment for intractable epilepsy. She also had genovariation of the STXBP1 gene. The patient suffered from general edema and hypoalbuminemia but no diarrhea. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EDG) revealed lymphatic ectasia in the lamina propria. We diagnosed her with intestinal lymphangiectasia, and after decreasing the KD ratio from 4:1 to 1.05:1, we successfully controlled her edema and hypoalbuminemia. As of now, the convulsions and hypsarrhythmia have disappeared, and the seizure-free state has lasted for 20 months.

Conclusions

PLE may be managed by decreasing the ketogenic ratio rather than discontinuing a KD since for some patients, a KD is the only effective therapy available at present.
Curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin induced caspase-dependent and –independent apoptosis via Smad or Akt signaling pathways in HOS cells
Authors: Huang Cheng , Lu Hsu-Feng , Chen Yu-Hsuan , Chen Jui-Chieh , Chou Wen-Hsiang , Huang Hsiu-Chen
Published: March 2020

Background

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant bone tumor in children and adolescents and has also been associated with a high degree of malignancy and enhanced metastatic capacity. Curcumin (CUR) is well known for its anti-osteosarcoma activity. However, both demethoxycurcumin (DMC), and bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) are natural curcumin analogues/congeners from turmeric whose role in osteosarcoma development remains unknown.

Methods

To evaluate the growth inhibitory effects of CUR, DMC and BDMC on osteosarcoma (HOS and U2OS), breast (MDA-MB-231), and melanoma (A2058) cancer cells, we employed the MTT assay, annexin V-FITC /7-AAD staining, and clonogenic assay.

Results

CUR,DMC, and BDMC all decreased the viability of HOS, U2OS, MDA-MB-231, and A2058 cancer cells. Additionally, CUR,DMC, and BDMC induced the apoptosis of HOS cells through activation of Smad 2/3 or repression of Akt signaling pathway. Furthermore, the combination of CUR,DMC, and BDMC synergistically reduced cell viability, colony formation and increased apoptosis than either two or a single agent in HOS cells.

Conclusions

The combination of these three compounds could be used as a novel target for the treatment of osteosarcoma.
Accurate targeted long-read DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation sequencing with TAPS
Authors: Liu Yibin , Cheng Jingfei , Siejka-Zielińska Paulina , Weldon Carika , Roberts Hannah , Lopopolo Maria , Magri Andrea , D’Arienzo Valentina , Harris James M. , McKeating Jane A. , Song Chun-Xiao
Published: March 2020

We present long-read Tet-assisted pyridine borane sequencing (lrTAPS) for targeted base-resolution sequencing of DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation in regions up to 10 kb from nanogram-level input. Compatible with both Oxford Nanopore and PacBio Single-Molecule Real-Time (SMRT) sequencing, lrTAPS detects methylation with accuracy comparable to short-read Illumina sequencing but with long-range epigenetic phasing. We applied lrTAPS to sequence difficult-to-map regions in mouse embryonic stem cells and to identify distinct methylation events in the integrated hepatitis B virus genome.
Spectacular rediscovery of the original prints of radiographs Roentgen sent to Lorentz in 1896
Authors: Zonneveld Frans W.
Published: March 2020

Background

Ninety years after the Dutch theoretical physicist H.A. Lorentz died, detailed investigation of his scientific heritage yielded the set of nine original prints of radiographs that W.C. Roentgen made during his experiments and had sent him, among half a dozen other scientists, on January 1st, 1896.

Main text

Through communications with different experts and literature research, the author describes these nine prints and how they relate to the first publication Roentgen wrote about his discovery of the X-rays.

Conclusions

The combination of Roentgen’s first publication on his X-ray discovery and the nine radiographs provides insight as to which aspects of the discovery were considered important by Roentgen and how he carried out the experiments to be able to describe these aspects.
A field experimental study on the impact of Acer platanoides, an urban tree invader, on forest ecosystem processes in North America
Authors: Fang Wei , Wang Xianzhong
Published: March 2020

Background

Invasive species affect community dynamics and ecosystem functions, but the mechanisms of their impacts are poorly understood. Hypotheses on invasion impact range from Superior Competitor to Novel Function, from Enemy Escape to Microbial Mediation. In this study, we examined the effects of an urban tree invader,Acer platanoides(Norway maple, NM), on a mesic deciduous forest in contrast to its native congenerAcer rubrum(red maple, RM) with a split-plot design experiment. A total of 720 maple seedlings were transplanted to 72 plots under 24 trees of three canopy types. The three experimental treatments were removal of resource competition at above- and belowground and removal of leaf-litter effect. Soil moisture and nitrogen-related microbial activities were followed for each plot.

Results

We found that partial canopy removal increased canopy openness and light transmission to the forest floor, but to a greater extent under NM than under RM trees. NM seedlings were more shade tolerant than RM seedlings in height growth. During the reciprocal transplantation in the mixed forest, biomass accumulation of NM seedlings under RM trees were twice as much as under NM, while that of RM seedlings under NM trees was 23.5% less than under RM. Soil net nitrification and relative nitrification were significantly higher, but mineralization rate was much lower under NM than under RM trees, which would lead to faster N leaching and lower N availability in the soil. Plots with litter removal had significantly higher seedling mortality due to herbivory by the end of 2 years, especially for NM seedlings under NM trees. Trenching enhanced soil water availability but there was no difference among canopy types.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that invasion of NM not only altered forest canopy structure but also changed herbivory rate for seedlings and N dynamics in the soils. NM seedlings were more shade tolerant under NM canopies than RM seedlings and were more protected by NM litter under NM canopies than under RM canopies. These altered biotic and abiotic environments will likely facilitate further invasion of NM in the forests, hence positive feedbacks, and make it an increasingly serious tree invader in North America.
Intrahousehold management and use of nutritional supplements during the hunger gap in Maradi region, Niger: a qualitative study
Authors: Marquer Caroline , Langendorf Céline , Woi-Messe Lynda Christelle , Berthe Fatou , Ategbo Eric-Alain , Rodas-Moya Santiago , dePee Saskia , Grais Rebecca F.
Published: March 2020

Background

Nutritional supplements are used for preventing and treating childhood malnutrition. While there is a growing body of evidence on product efficacy, less emphasis has been placed on how they are perceived and used at the household level. Here, we report on the intrahousehold management of three different supplements (Ready to Use Supplementary food (RUSF), medium quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS-MQ) and Super Cereal Plus (SC+)) in the region of Maradi (Niger). The main objective of this study was to describe the use, consumption and perception of the three different nutritional products at the household level.

Methods

The study was conducted in the Madarounfa district in the region of Maradi (February – March 2012). Female caregivers were purposely selected from eligible households and invited to participate. Data were collected through focus group discussion and interviews and were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Results

In total, 114 caregivers participated. Three major themes were initially identified and included preparation and conservation; consumption and sharing practices as well as perception of impact. The data showed good acceptance at the household level including perceived benefits for the target children, health improvement, prevention of illness and malnutrition. Sharing and gifting at both household and community level were also reported.

Conclusions

Caregivers displayed positive perceptions toward the investigated supplements. Patterns of actual management should be considered in the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of future programs.
Assessing the accuracy of Cameriere’s Indian-specific formula for age estimation on right and left sides of orthopantomogram
Authors: Vadla Purnima , Surekha R. , Rao Guttikonda Venkateswara , Deepthi G. , Naveen Sayani , Kumar Chippalapally Arun
Published: March 2020

Background

Age estimation is of prime importance in forensic science and clinical dentistry. In children, age estimation can be done by skeletal maturity indicators like hand-wrist radiographs and dental age estimation. Skeletal maturity indicators compared with dental age estimation is limited as they are influenced by various environmental parameters, whereas calcification of teeth depends on genes rather than environmental factors. Many of the dental age estimation methods use extracted teeth, which are quite invasive, whereas Cameriere’s method is a recently introduced radiographic method first in European population; where in age estimation is done using open apices of teeth by orthopantomogram (OPG). Indian-specific formula was introduced later using permanent mandibular teeth on left side of jaw. The present study aimed to estimate the age and also to determine the accuracy of Cameriere’s method using Indian-specific formula on both right and left sides of mandible in Khammam population of South India and also to determine the side which can be efficient in determining age.

Methodology

The present study comprised radiographs of 50 subjects (25 boys and 25 girls) ranging from 5 to 15 years. The soft copies of the radiographs of selected subjects were retrieved from the computer attached to the digital orthopantomogram machine (Orthophos XG5; Sirona Dental Systems). The 7 left and right permanent mandibular teeth were assessed in OPGs. The number of teeth with closed apical and with open apical ends of roots was examined and measured. The values were tabulated based on the Cameriere method of age estimation using Indian-specific formula. Statistical analysis was done using paired t test and Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient test.

Results

Comparison of dental age with chronological age in males showed non-significant results on both left and right sides of the OPG with a p value of 0.3765 and 0.3045, respectively. Likewise in females, p values of 0.2167 and 0.8089 were noted. When males and females were compared, non-significant results were obtained with a p value of 0.1613 in the age estimated on the left side of the OPG and a p value of 0.4322 on the right side of the OPG. Correlation test showed that left side of the OPG showed better results in determining age than the right side of the OPG with an r value of 0.9982 and 0.9485 in males and females, respectively.

Conclusion

Cameriere’s method of age estimation using Indian-specific formula proves to be an accurate and a reliable method which can be used to assess the chronological age of individuals. There is also a good correlation found between the chronological age and dental age of younger age group individuals.
A checklist of Diptera collected in the Caña de Azúcar morgue of Aragua, Venezuela
Authors: Nuñez Rodríguez José , Bonilla Villarreal Mary , Liria Jonathan
Published: March 2020

Background

Venezuela has experienced soaring rates of violent crime, in particular, homicides. The Aragua state with 142 to 168 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants has the highest homicide rate in the last 5 years. All these cases are transferred to the estate morgue. Entomological evidence on cadavers has been used as a tool to clarify the death causes. Due to this, we analyzed the occurrence of forensically important dipteran species on facilities of the Caña de Azúcar morgue in Aragua, Venezuela.

Findings

A total of 692 adult insects belonging to five species of Calliphoridae and Muscidae were collected at the Caña de Azúcar morgue premises (body holding area and autopsy room).Chrysomya megacephalaandMusca domesticawere the most frequent species in the morgue areas. Other species with forensic importance were also found:Lucilia cuprina,Chrysomya albiceps, andOphyra aenescens.

Conclusions

The results could be used as additional sources of information in Venezuelan criminal investigations.
Genetics, cross-resistance and realized heritability of resistance to acetamiprid in generalist predator, Chrysoperla carnea (Steph.) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Authors: Mansoor Muhammad M. , Shad Sarfraz A.
Published: March 2020

The common green lacewing,Chrysoperla carnea(Steph.) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) has a remarkable role in biological control programs being used to control insect pests of economic significance. This study aimed to investigate the potential ofC. carneaagainst commonly used insecticides, especially acetamiprid. Selection with acetamiprid resulted in 31,070.69- and 13.34-fold resistance when compared with Lab-PK and Field strains, respectively. Selection also induced a very low cross-resistance to buprofezin, pyriproxyfen, and spinosad in Aceta-SEL strain. Realized heritability (h2) was 0.24 showed a remarkable genetic variant for resistance. Resistance to acetamiprid inC. carneawas incompletely dominant, autosomal, and polygenic. These outcomes are helpful to employ the acetamiprid-resistantC. carneain fields.
Perspective on photonic memristive neuromorphic computing
Authors: Goi Elena , Zhang Qiming , Chen Xi , Luan Haitao , Gu Min
Published: March 2020

Neuromorphic computing applies concepts extracted from neuroscience to develop devices shaped like neural systems and achieve brain-like capacity and efficiency. In this way, neuromorphic machines, able to learn from the surrounding environment to deduce abstract concepts and to make decisions, promise to start a technological revolution transforming our society and our life. Current electronic implementations of neuromorphic architectures are still far from competing with their biological counterparts in terms of real-time information-processing capabilities, packing density and energy efficiency. A solution to this impasse is represented by the application of photonic principles to the neuromorphic domain creating in this way the field of neuromorphic photonics. This new field combines the advantages of photonics and neuromorphic architectures to build systems with high efficiency, high interconnectivity and high information density, and paves the way to ultrafast, power efficient and low cost and complex signal processing. In this Perspective, we review the rapid development of the neuromorphic computing field both in the electronic and in the photonic domain focusing on the role and the applications of memristors. We discuss the need and the possibility to conceive a photonic memristor and we offer a positive outlook on the challenges and opportunities for the ambitious goal of realising the next generation of full-optical neuromorphic hardware.
Effect of annealing temperature on the synthesis and photocatalytic properties of Bi0.65K0.2Ba0.15FeO3 perovskite-like nanoparticle synthesized by sol-gel method
Authors: Haruna Abdurrashid , Abdulkadir Ibrahim , Idris Sulaiman Ola
Published: March 2020

Background

BiFeO3 shows promising applications in photocatalytic degradation, purification process, and in clean energy generation. The various fascinating properties of bismuth ferrite nanoparticles can be improved by doping the material at either of the A or B sites to give it extra photocatalytic advantage toward decreasing the energy bandgap and other photophysical properties of the material.

Results

In this research, pure Bi0.65K0.2Ba0.15FeO3 perovskite material was synthesized using the sol-gel method via citric acid route in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). The powdered nanoparticles were annealed at different annealing temperatures of 600, 700, and 800 °C each for 4 h in a muffle furnace and coded K2BFO 600, K2BFO 700, and K2BFO 800 corresponding to the annealing temperature of each portion. The powder nanoparticles were characterized using powdered X-ray diffraction (PXRD) to determine the crystallite structure. The samples displayed similar peak patterns with increase in intensity as the annealing temperature is increased indicating an increase in crystallinity. The impurity peaks in K2BFO 800, however, show that the sample may contain a secondary phase. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to determine the morphology, and UV-Vis spectroscopy indicated that all the powders were photoactive within the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. ATR-FTIR spectra of the samples were collected to study the formation and phase purity of the B-site in the perovskite structures. The photocatalytic performance of the powder was tested on methylene blue dye under visible light irradiation for the degradation studies. All powders showed photocatalytic ability after 2 h of irradiation with the powder annealed at 800 °C being better. The photocatalytic activities of the powders showed improvement on addition of 2 drops of 1 M H2O2 (80% degradation for K2BFO 800). The bandgap energy of K2BFO 800, 700, and 600 was estimated at approximately 2.00, 2.12, and 2.18 eV, respectively, using Tauc’s equation. The improved activity is as a result of photoabsorption of visible light by the doped powders causing generation of electrons and holes. The kinetic studies were carried out and the mechanisms of the photocatalytic reaction proposed.

Conclusion

The effect of annealing temperature on synthesis of the material shows enhanced photoactivity in the presence of hydrogen peroxide leading to improved performance for the degradation of MB, and the catalyst can be said to be a good candidate for the treatment of waste materials.
Leptomeningeal Metastasis from Adrenocortical Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Schreiber Anna R , Kar Adwitiya , Goodspeed Andrew E , Pozdeyev Nikita , Somerset Hilary , Raeburn Christopher D , Tan Aik-Choon , Leong Stephen , Wierman Margaret E , Kiseljak-Vassiliades Katja
Published: March 2020

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is an uncommon endocrine malignancy with limited treatment options. While the overall 5-year survival rate in patients with ACC is 35%, the disease is often rapidly progressive with long-term survival in only 5% of patients. Although tumor stage, grade, and excess hormonal activity predict unfavorable prognosis, additional biomarkers are needed to identify patients with aggressive disease. A 23-year-old woman presented with rapidly progressing signs and symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome, with associated abdominal pain and fullness. Evaluation revealed a large left adrenal mass which had developed over 8 months. En bloc surgical resection was performed by an endocrine surgeon, and pathology revealed adrenocortical carcinoma with Ki67 of 60%. Despite adjuvant treatment with mitotane and etoposide–doxorubicin–carboplatin chemotherapy, the patient had rapid disease progression with metastatic spread to liver, lung, bone, brain, and leptomeningies, and she died 11 months after the initial diagnosis. Subsequent analysis of the patient’s tumor revealed mutations in TP53 and MEN1. RNA sequencing was compared against the the Cancer Genome Atlas data set and clustered with the high steroid, proliferative subtype, associated with the worst prognosis. The tumor also demonstrated a low BUB1B/PINK1 ratio and G0S2 hypermethylation, both predictive of very aggressive ACC. This case represents a subset of ACC characterized by rapid and fatal progression. Clinically available predictors as well as recently reported molecular signatures and biomarkers correlated with this tumor’s aggressiveness, suggesting that development and validation of combinations of biomarkers may be useful in guiding personalized approaches to patients with ACC.
A Middle-Class Misidentification
Authors: Li Yun , Rong Rong
Published: March 2020

Through the autobiographical poetry of contemporary Chinese female peasant workers, this article studies how Chinese migrant workers are dis-identified by the identifying hukou system and thus become bodies of non-identity drifting in cities. Driven by the urban desire intrigued by national discourses on modernization, peasants deidentify themselves by abandoning their officially recognized rural identity only to see that they are disidentified by the authority that rejects their urban citizenship. The double dispossession leaves them no way to identify themselves. To deradicalize the nonidentity, postsocialist ideologies invent a middle-class dream, attempting to reshape migrant workers into a “working class” misidentified with a class image beyond its financial reach as well as social function. It thus disunites the working class by throwing migrant workers into constant search for identities.