bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One Lung Ventilation Using an Orotracheal Tube and an Endobronchial Blocker in a Patient with Difficult Airway
Authors: Sahana PA , Rao Pooja , Tantry Gururaj , Tantry Thrivikrama Padur
Published: November 2021

One-Lung Ventilation (OLV) is achieved in thoracic surgeries to facilitate collapse of one lung for better surgical visualisation. Double-lumen tubes and bronchial blockers are two commonly used devices for OLV. Patients with ‘difficult airway’ pose significant challenges for insertion of Double Lumen Endotracheal Tube (DLT). Dual malignancy such as carcinoma of lung and head and neck is extremely rare to present with. Patients presenting with restricted mouth opening due to previous surgeries and requiring lung isolation techniques may pose significant challenges to anaesthesiologist. The difficult airway scenario may arise in such patients owing to their previous surgery to the tongue, larynx, neck, mandible or previous radiation. The present case was of 47-year-old of lung isolation achieved in a patient with restricted mouth opening with an orotracheal tube, bougie, endobronchial blocker and a flexible Fibre Optic Bronchoscope (FOB). Left upper lobectomy was successfully performed after passing endobronchial blocker through a conventional orotracheal tube under the guidance of FOB.
Accuracy of Two-dimensional Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Diagnosis of Foetal Congenital Anomalies in a Tertiary Care Hospital- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ray Jaybrata , Baidya Jaharlal , Debbarma Tanusri , Joy Jobin
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Ultrasound screening for foetus congenital malformations is the mainstay in diagnosis and is commonly performed at 19-22 weeks gestation. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is known as a problem solving tool which is used for answering a specific question. Both ultrasound and foetus MRI are highly sensitive and specific in diagnosis of congenital anomalies of the foetus with high agreement between both modalities. Aim: To determine the accuracy of Ultrasound Sonography (USG) and High Field 3 tesla MRI in diagnosis of different types of foetal Central Nervous System (CNS) and non CNS congenital abnormalities. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Radiodiagnosis at Agartala Government Medical College and GB Pant Hospital from June 2017 to May 2019. A total of 65 cases with ultrasound diagnosis of foetus abnormalities were examined by 3 Tesla MRI. MRI were performed within 15 days after USG detected anomalies. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test. Results: In cases with foetus anomalies high field MRI provided detailed findings leading to a more refined diagnosis. CNS anomalies were more as compared to other anomalies. Some of the antenatal findings were confirmed in some cases following termination of pregnancy and some were by postnatal examination. Among them chest anomalies was least common i.e., 1.5%. sensitivity of MRI was 88.13%, specificity was 66.66%, Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) was 96.29%, Negative Predictive Value (NPV) was 36.36% and USG sensitivity was 82.43%, specificity and 77.77%, PPV was 95.83%and NPV was 41.17%. Conclusion: High field MRI should be used as a second line of investigation in patients with foetus abnormalities diagnosed by ultrasound for confirmation of diagnosis and selecting the treatment protocol. In cases of fatal abnormalities, a confirmed diagnosis made before 20 weeks of pregnancy may help by terminating the pregnancy.
Mineralising Angiopathy of Lenticulostriate Vessels in Childhood: Series of Four Cases
Authors: Jetha Kapil , Cecil Rashmin , Soni Sarthak , Nimbalkar Somashekhar M
Published: November 2021

Mineralising lenticulostriate vessels’ angiopathy is becoming an important recognisable cause of ischaemic stroke in healthy children post trauma or fall. The usual presentation is a focal neuro-deficit of acute onset following trivial trauma in infancy with or without seizures/dystonia. The authors conducted a retrospective chart review of children diagnosed with stroke in a tertiary care paediatric hospital. Based on clinical and radiological features, children diagnosed with mineralising angiopathy with basal ganglia stroke in the last two years were identified, data was retrieved from the hospital’s electronic database and included in the study. Also, the patients were contacted telephonically in case of missing data. Out of the four cases, three were less than 18-month-old, and one was 52- month-old. All were normal before illness and had a history of trivial trauma {except one who had Road Traffic Accident (RTA)} followed by hemiparesis. Investigations for other aetiologies of stroke were non contributory. With antiplatelet therapy and iron supplements, most did well with an excellent functional outcome at follow-up. None of the children had recurrence during follow-up. In a typical case, an extensive work-up is not required.
Ileocolic Intussusception in an Infant with Ileal Duplication Cyst as a Lead Point- A Case Report
Authors: Tripathy Tara Prasad , Patel Ranjan , Mohanty Subrat Kumar , Mohanty Sukanya Priyadarshini
Published: November 2021

Gastrointestinal duplication cysts are uncommon congenital malformations, with small intestine being the most common site, followed by colon and stomach. It can have variable presentations such as intestinal obstruction, bleeding, palpable mass, or rarely volvulus. Here, the authors report a case of intussusception in a two-year-old child, presented with complaints of bilious vomiting and abdominal distension for three days with X-ray features suggestive of bowel obstruction. Ultrasonography revealed intussusception with ileal duplication cyst as the lead point, which was confirmed on exploratory laparotomy. In a paediatric patient, enteric duplication cyst should be included in the differential diagnosis of a cystic lesion as the lead point in intussusception.
Land Selling Scenario of Person Leaving Agriculture in Nayagarh District of Odisha
Authors: Dakua Anupam , Ghadei Kalyan
Published: November 2021

Aim: Land being the most important consideration in the social status in the rural areas, selling of them is considered as bad signs in India. Many times, it is observed that farmers were compelled to sell their lands due to manyreasons. Depeasantisation is one of them. In the current paper the land selling scenario of the Depeasantised persons is analysed.

Study Design and Place of Study: An Ex-post-Facto study has been conducted in Nayagarh District of Odisha, which is one of the peri-urban districts of the Capital city of Odisha.

Methodology: A total of 280 number of Depeasantised persons were selected randomly from 5 blocks out of 8 blocks of the district for the study. A structured interview schedule was prepared for collecting the data from the respondents. With proper statistical tools the data was analysed and interpreted for the result. The proportion of respondents sold land, category of farmers who sold land, the reason of land selling, and the persons to whom the land sold was found out during the investigation.

Result: Almost half of the depeasantised persons have sold their lands, all of then have sold a portion of their lands only. More than 85 percent of the respondents belonged to the marginal farer category who had sold their lands. Debt repayment was the primary factor for selling of land in the study area. Most of the depeasantised persons more than 60 percent had sold their lands to landlords and other moneyed persons.

Conclusion: To safeguard the interest of the farmers and to prevent the land selling of the small and marginal farmers government should have more focused approach to solve this issue.
Study on Marketing Channels of Black Pepper in Kolli Hills of Namakkal District in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Indhumathi C. , Senthilkumar R. , Muralidharan C. , Selvi R. Pangayar
Published: November 2021

Aim: The present study was conducted with the aim to analyze the marketing cost, margin, price spread and marketing efficiency of farmers in different marketing channels of Black pepper in Kolli Hills of Namakkal district.

Methodology: About 80 farmers were interviewed for this study. Data related to marketing performance of black pepper was collected using the well-structured pre tested interview schedule and the results were tabulated.

Results: Among the different marketing channels, total marketing cost was low in channel III (Rs.39/Qtl) as compared to channel II (Rs.92/Qtl) and channel I (Rs.74/Qtl). This shows that marketing cost was low if the channel does not have any market intermediaries. The best channel for both producer and consumer were found to be channel III in which producers receives the maximum share of consumers rupee (89.46 per cent) and consumers purchase the produce at the low price of Rs. 370/Qtl.

Conclusion: This study reveals that, among the other marketing channels, channel III has the highest marketing efficiency of 9.48 per cent and 8.48 per cent. Middleman exploitation was the major problem which reduce the net income of the farmers in the study area.
Determining the Coping Strategies towards Household Food Security Practiced by the Farmers in Flood Prone Areas
Authors: Haque M. E. , Islam M. N. , Alam M. J. , Uddin M. Y. , Haque M. M. , Islam M. R. , Majid M. A. , Mostafa M. G. , Muhammad N. , Turin M. Z.
Published: November 2021

A study was carried out at each of three flood affected reverine villages of three upazilas (small administrative unit) under Jamalpur district in Bangladesh during September, 2011 to May, 2012 to find out the coping strategies towards household food security practices by the farmers during flood period. Data were collected from randomly selected 336 respondents of 6720 farm families through both the qualitative and quantitative techniques and analyzed with the help of SPSS. A three-point rating scale was used for measuring the coping strategies considering five components such as food preservation, food management, food collection, agricultural products protection and some social aspects. The overall situation about practicing coping strategy had medium to high level where 70.83 percent were practiced high, 29.17 percent medium and none of them were under practiced low coping strategy towards household food security. Based on the above findings, it can be said that still now there is an ample scope for the development workers to work with the flood affected people for creating awareness towards better utilization of existing resources for improving their food situation as well as livelihoods.
Environmental Implication of Thermal Radiation on the Physiochemical Properties of Soil around Gas Flare Sites in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Oyet G. I. , Audu P. , Chibor B. S.
Published: November 2021

The effect of thermal radiation on the Physiochemical properties of soil around gas flare site in the Niger Delta region was assessed in Emuoha Local Government Area of River State, Nigeria, for a period of twelve months. Radiation profile was determined at different times (hours) – 6, 10, 14, 18 and 22, in the four seasons (early dry, early wet, late dry and late wet) of the year. Soil samples were taken at different depths (cm) (0-15 and 15-30) for physicochemical attributes at different distances (m) (0-150, 150-300, 300-450, 450-600 and 1000 -2000) from the flare site and thermal radiation was also determined at the respective distances. Results of effect of time and seasonal variations on radiation profile showed that environmental temperature (oC) ranged from 29.2 ± 0.3 at 22 hours of early wet season to 33.0 ± 0.4 at 14 hours of late dry season; radiation temperature ranged from 35.4 ± 1.2 at 22 hours of late wet season to 42.0 ± 1.4 at 14 hours of late dry season, while thermal radiation (w/m2) ranged from 490.83 ± 7.7 at 22 hours of late wet season to 535.69 ± 9.69 at 14 hours of late dry season. Results of effect of flare distance on physicochemical properties of soil showed that as the distance (m) from flare site increases from 0 – 150 to 1000 – 2000, the radiation intensity (w/m2) decreases from 603.84 ± 5.7 – 428.83 ± 0.75, and values of pH, OC, N, P,  and exchangeable cations - K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+ increases in the range {pH (4.94 ± 0.02 – 5.50 ± 0.00), OC (1.09 ± 0.01 – 2.05 ± 0.00), N (0.07 ±0.01 – 0.09 ± 0.00), P (10.90 ± 0.03 – 12.10 ± 5.19), K+ (0.28 ± 0.01 – 1.86 ± 0.01), Na+ (0.48 ± 0.00 – 1.04 ± 0.00), Ca2+ (1.65 ± 0.01 – 2.85 ± 0.00), Mg2+ (0.73 ± 0.01 – 1.24 ± 0.01)}, These values seemed not to be affected by the thermal radiation and flare distance , oil and grease and THC decreases in the range 203.30 ± 0.88 – 61.33 ± 0.33 and 352.90 ± 2.08 – 10.04 ± 0.04 respectively. Similar trend was observed with soil samples taken at 15-30cm depth. Statistical analysis showed there is significant difference (p<0.001) in soil attributes as distance from flare distance increases. Further studies should be carried out to investigate the relationship between soil around flare site and crop performance on different agro-ecological zone of Rivers State.
Quantative STRUCTURE Activity Relationship (QSAR) Study of a Series of Molecules Derived from 2,3-dihydro-1H- perimidine having Activity against Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B
Authors: Tiéba Tuo Nanou , Stephane Dembele Georges , Doh Soro , Bibata Konate , Guillaume Kodjo Charles , Nahossé ZIAO
Published: November 2021

In order to study the Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B and descriptors, we used a series of fourteen (14) molecules derived from perimidine. The compounds were optimized at the computational level B3LYP / 6-31 G (d, p), to obtain the descriptors of the model. This study was performed using the Linear Multiple Regression (MLR) method. This tool allowed us to obtain a quantitative model from the descriptors that are, the overall softness (S), the energy of the lowest vacant (ELUMO), the bond length l (N-C1). This model has good statistical performance (R2 = 0.958; RMCE = 0.110; F = 43.870). In addition, the external validation test of Tropsha and the domain of applicability from the levers were verified.
Violence Tendency among Secondary School Students: The Effect of Self-Esteem and Empathic Tendency
Authors: Kilic Mahmut , Uzuncakmak Tugba
Published: November 2021

Aims: Personal, familial and environmental factors can be effective in tendency to violence. This study was conducted to determine the effects of self-esteem of adolescents and empathic tendency on levels of violence tendency to secondary school students, regardless of socio-demographic characteristics.

Study Design: This study is a retrospective record study.

Place and Duration of Study: Secondary schools in the city center of Yozgat in the 2017-2018 academic years.

Methodology: In the study, the data in the records of secondary school students (n=987, boys 503, girls 484; grade range 5-8) which were collected using the scales were used. The data were analysed by correlation, independent t-test, Anova and linear regression (LR).

Results: The mean violence tendency, self-esteem, and empathic tendency scales’ scores of the students were 33.4, 69.0 and 2.4, respectively. According to the multivariate analysis, low empathic tendency, family perception of low performance, disliking school, increased TV viewing time, low self-esteem, increased age, being exposed to violence at home and not preparing for high school entrance exam were found to be statistically significant as the factors affecting the tendency to violence in order of priorities.

Conclusion: Early adolescents have a moderate level of tendency to violence. Moreover, low self-esteem, low empathic tendency, individual characteristics and parental attitudes are associated with tendency to violence.
Prevalence, Causes and Management of Obstruction of Common Bile Duct: Review Article
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed Elnibras Abdelrahim , Al-Ruwaili Sultan Suliman Q , Al-Ghamdi Faisal Saeed A. , Alasmari Mohammed Abdullah S. , Alhamdi Muath Sulaiman G. , Alasmari Khaled Abdullah S. , Alamrani Sultan Abdulrahman S. , Murad Bandar Mohammed A. Abu , Alatawi Bedour Eid H. , Alrofydi Abdullah Mohammed , Aljuhani Razan Ahmed F. , Alzayer Mariyah Ihab , Almhmd Abdalah Emad S. , Alsukairan Faisal Ibrahim S. , Balawi Mona Awad O. Al
Published: November 2021

Gallstones cause biliary obstruction in about 5 out of 1000 people, whereas 10 to 15% of the adult population in the United States will have gallstones at some point in their lives. Gall stones, also known as cholelithiasis, are the precursor of choledocholithiasis, which occurs when gall stones pass through the cystic duct and lodge in the common hepatic ducts, causing an obstruction. Routine labs and some specialized labs are used in the diagnosis of biliary blockage. Severe complications can happen if left unchecked such as damaging the hepatic dysfunction, renal failure, nutritional deficiencies, bleeding problems, and infections. Treatment depends on the causing effect of bile duct obstruction. Sphincterotomy with lithotripsy, choledochotomy, choledochoduodenostomy, choledochojejunostomy, or cholecystectomy are the most used for large gall stones treatment. This review looks at the prevalence, etiology and management of the disease.
Clinical Comparative Study of Effect of Two Different Doses of Phenylephrine on Spinal Induced Hypotension during Cesarean Section
Authors: Hiruthick S. , Sanjana K. V. L.
Published: November 2021

Background and Aims: During Cesarean section, hypotension occurs in the most of parturients, following spinal anesthesia. This prospective observational study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of two different Bolus Doses of Phenylephrine for Prevention of Spinal-Induced Hypotension during Cesarean Section.

Materials and Methods: A total of 120 parturients undergoing cesarean section were divided into two groups of group A and group B with sixty in each group. Group A received phenylephrine 75 mcg IV bolus, while Group B received phenylephrine 100 mcg IV bolus, immediately after giving spinal anesthesia. For the next 20 minutes, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DSP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and heart rate (HR) were recorded every 2 minutes, and APGAR scores at 1 and 5 minutes were recorded.

Results: There was no difference between the two groups in terms of preventing hypotension, with 16.6% in Group A and 16.6% in Group B. In the first 2–6 minutes, however, the rise in systolic pressure in Group B was higher than in Group A. Group B (46.66 %) had a higher rate of bradycardia than Group A (25 %).

Conclusion: Both phenylephrine dosages were equally effective in preventing hypotension following spinal anesthesia. However, Prophylactic bolus dose of phenylephrine 75 mcg was found to be effective for the management of spinal-induced hypotension and should be preferred over 100 mcg which causes significant bradycardia and reactive hypertension.
Determination of Oligohydramnios and Its Perinatal Outcome in Tertiary Hospital, India
Authors: Sindhuja S. M. , Meenakshi .
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Oligohydramnios is an extremely rare condition where the liquor amnii is deficient in amount to the extent of less than 200 mL at term.

Methods and Materials: This study is a retrospective study conducted in Saveetha Medical college from JAN2021- MAR2021 done by random sampling method and 50 patients with oligohydramnios were taken as study population after satisfying inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results: In the current study, 78 percent of patients received emergency LSCS, while only 22 percent had a normal delivery, in this study, approximately 20% weighed less than 2 kg, The most common cause of Oligohydramnios in this study was idiopathic.

Conclusion: Oligohydraminos is now being identified more frequently in regular USG examinations. Oligohydraminos is linked to a higher likelihood of pregnancy problems, as well as a higher rate of death and morbidity.
The Role of Serum Protein, Haemoglobin, and BMI as Predictors of Postoperative Morbidity and Mortality in Major Surgeries
Authors: Jaison Karen , Muthukumaran G.
Published: November 2021

Background: Pre-operative nutritional assessment is necessary for all patients undergoing surgery in order to prevent post-operative complications. This is because wound healing is an anabolic process requiring adequate protein stores in our body. Serum albumin levels has been found to be a reliable tool in assessing the nutrition when used along with two other parameters namely, haemoglobin and body mass index. It is necessary to provide adequate nutritional support prior surgery for better clinical outcome post-operatively.

Objectives: To assess role of pre-operative serum albumin, haemoglobin and BMI as predictors of post-operative morbidity and mortality in major open surgeries.

Materials and Methods:Sixty patients more than 18 years of age posted for elective and emergency laparotomy in the general surgery ward were included in this study based upon the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Detailed history, clinical examination, anthropometry and nutritional assessment with pre-operative serum albumin, haemoglobin and BMI were done. Post-surgery the details of the procedure, anaesthesia, duration of surgery, duration of hospital stay and early post-operative complications were studied. The patients were followed up till they got discharged from the hospital. The data obtained was analysed.

Results: Maximum number of post-operative complications were in the age group of 40-59 years (36.66%). Seroma followed by surgical site infections were the two most common complications seen among the study population. Most of the complications were seen among patients with                serum albumin <3.5gm/dl. Patients with hypoalbuminemia and anaemia had a tendency to develop more post-operative complications and this was found to be statistically significant. (p value <0.05) There was no significant relationship between abnormal BMI and complications in the present study.

Conclusion: Pre-operative hypoalbuminemia <3.5gm/dl and anaemia were found to be independent risk factors for post-operative morbidity and mortality in major open surgeries. Although the relationship between BMI and complications was not found to be statistically significant, it is also essential to stabilise BMI prior to surgery for better clinical outcome.
RASSF1A independence and early galectin‐1 upregulation in PIK3CA‐induced hepatocarcinogenesis: new therapeutic venues
Authors: Scheiter Alexander , Evert Katja , Reibenspies Lucas , Cigliano Antonio , Annweiler Katharina , Müller Karolina , Pöhmerer Laura‐Maria‐Giovanna , Xu Hongwei , Cui Guofei , Itzel Timo , Materna‐Reichelt Silvia , Coluccio Andrea , Honarnejad Kamran , Teufel Andreas , Brochhausen Christoph , Dombrowski Frank , Chen Xin , Evert Matthias , Calvisi Diego F. , Utpatel Kirsten
Published: November 2021

Aberrant activation of the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mTOR and Ras/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways is a hallmark of hepatocarcinogenesis. In a subset of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling dysregulation depends on phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate 3‐kinase, catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) mutations, while RAS/MAPK activation is partly attributed to promoter methylation of the tumor suppressor Ras association domain‐containing protein 1 (RASSF1A). To evaluate a possible cocarcinogenic effect of PIK3CA activation and RASSF1A knockout, plasmids expressing oncogenic forms of PIK3CA (E545K or H1047R mutants) were delivered to the liver of RASSF1A knockout and wild‐type mice by hydrodynamic tail vein injection combined with sleeping beauty‐mediated somatic integration. Transfection of either PIK3CA E545K or H1047R mutants sufficed to induce HCCs in mice irrespective of RASSF1A mutational background. The related tumors displayed a lipogenic phenotype with upregulation of fatty acid synthase and stearoyl‐CoA desaturase‐1 (SCD1). Galectin‐1, which was commonly upregulated in preneoplastic lesions and tumors, emerged as a regulator of SCD1. Co‐inhibitory treatment with PIK3CA inhibitors and the galectin‐1 inhibitor OTX008 resulted in synergistic cytotoxicity in human HCC cell lines, suggesting novel therapeutic venues.
Stochastic stability of decentralized Kalman filter for nonlinear systems
Authors: Saini Vinod Kumar , Maity Arnab
Published: November 2021

In this paper, stochastic stability of a decentralized Kalman filter (DKF) for nonlinear systems and a bound on the sum of square of predicted estimation error are examined of a single node. A Lyapunov analysis approach is used to show that the predicted estimation error of the nonlinear DKF is stochastically stable and exponentially bounded in mean square, if the system is observable, controllable and the initial estimation error is bounded. Moreover, it is validated by the numerical simulations. The numerical results show that the sum of square of the predicted estimation error is bounded above.
A Dual‐Protective Artificial Interface for Stable Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Fan Lishuang , Sun Bing , Yan Kang , Xiong Pan , Guo Xin , Guo Zhikun , Zhang Naiqing , Feng Yujie , Sun Kening , Wang Guoxiu
Published: November 2021

Constructing an advanced artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on lithium metal anodes is a promising strategy to protect Li anodes and enable them to maintain long‐term cycling stability and safety. Herein, the development of a dual‐protective interface as an artificial SEI with high ionic conductivity and appropriate mechanical strength to protect Li anodes from parasitic reactions and dendrite formation is reported. The dual‐protective interface consists of a Prussian blue (PB) inner layer and a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) outer layer. The compact and uniform PB layer with abundant Li‐ion diffusion channels facilitates fast and uniform Li‐ion flux to or from the surface of the Li metal anode, guiding uniform Li deposition without dendrite formation. In addition, the flexible rGO layer on the top of the PB layer enhances the structural integrity of the PB film against severe volume change during repeated Li plating and stripping. As a result, the Li metal anodes with the dual‐protective interfaces show significantly improved cycling stability with high Coulombic efficiency and dendrite‐free morphology. This work provides a new strategy to enhance the stability and safety of Li metal anodes for lithium metal batteries.
Maladaptive Autophagy in the Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Epithelitis in Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Colafrancesco Serena , Barbati Cristiana , Priori Roberta , Putro Erisa , Giardina Federico , Gattamelata Angelica , Monosi Benedetta , Colasanti Tania , Celia Alessandra Ida , Cerbelli Bruna , Giordano Carla , Scarpa Susanna , Fusconi Massimo , Cavalli Giulio , Berardicurti Onorina , Gandolfo Saviana , Nayar Saba , Barone Francesca , Giacomelli Roberto , De Vita Salvatore , Alessandri Cristiano , Conti Fabrizio
Published: November 2021

Objective

Salivary gland epithelial cells (SGECs) are key cellular drivers in the pathogenesis of primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS); however, the mechanisms sustaining SGEC activation in primary SS remain unclear. We undertook this study to determine the role of autophagy in the survival and activation of SGECs in primary SS.

Methods

Primary SGECs isolated from the minor SGs of patients with primary SS or sicca syndrome were evaluated by flow cytometry, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence to assess autophagy (autophagic flux, light chain 3 IIB [LC3‐IIB], p62, LC3‐IIB+/lysosome‐associated membrane protein 1 [LAMP‐1] staining), apoptosis (annexin V/propidium iodide [PI], caspase 3), and activation (intercellular adhesion molecule, vascular cell adhesion molecule). Focus score and germinal center presence were assessed in the SGs from the same patients to assess correlation with histologic severity. Human SG (HSG) cells were stimulated in vitro with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and serum from primary SS patients in the presence or absence of autophagy inhibitors to determine changes in autophagy and epithelial cell activation.

Results

SGECs from primary SS patients (n = 24) exhibited increased autophagy (autophagic flux [P = 0.001]; LC3‐IIB [P = 0.02]; p62 [P = 0.064]; and as indicated by LC3‐IIB/LAMP‐1+ staining), increased expression of antiapoptotic molecules (Bcl‐2 [P = 0.006]), and reduced apoptosis (annexin V/PI [P = 0.002]; caspase 3 [P = 0.057]), compared to samples from patients with sicca syndrome (n = 16). Autophagy correlated with histologic disease severity. In vitro experiments on HSG cells stimulated with serum and PBMCs from primary SS patients confirmed activation of autophagy and expression of adhesion molecules, which was reverted upon pharmacologic inhibition of autophagy.

Conclusion

In primary SS SGECs, inflammation induces autophagy and prosurvival mechanisms, which promote SGEC activation and mirror histologic severity. These findings indicate that autophagy is a central contributor to the pathogenesis of primary SS and a new therapeutic target.
The gaseous natal environments of GPS and CSS sources with ASKAP–FLASH
Authors: Allison James R. , Sadler Elaine M. , Mahony Elizabeth K. , Moss Vanessa A. , Yoon Hyein
Published: November 2021

GHz‐Peaked Spectrum (GPS) and compact steep spectrum (CSS) sources are thought to represent a young and/or confined sub‐population of radio‐loud active galactic nuclei (AGN) that are yet to evacuate their surrounding ambient interstellar gas. By studying the gaseous environments of these objects, we can gain an insight into the inter‐dependent relationship between galaxies and their supermassive black holes (SMBHs). The First Large Absorption Survey in Hi (FLASH) will build a census of the neutral atomic hydrogen (Hi) gas in galaxies at intermediate cosmological redshifts. FLASH is expected to detect at least several hundred Hi absorbers associated with GPS and CSS sources. These absorbers provide an important probe of the abundance and kinematics of line‐of‐sight neutral gas toward radio AGN, in some cases revealing gas associated with infalling clouds and outflows. Observations are now complete for the first phase of the FLASH Pilot Survey and early analysis has already yielded several detections, including the GPS source PKS 2311‐477. Optical imaging of this galaxy reveals an interacting system that could have supplied the neutral gas seen in absorption and triggered the radio‐loud AGN. FLASH will provide a statistically significant sample with which the prevalence of such gas‐rich interactions among compact radio galaxies can be investigated.
Clinico‐cytopathologic analysis of 574 Pericardial Effusion Specimens: Application of the international system for reporting serous fluid cytopathology (ISRSFC) and long‐term clinical follow‐up
Authors: Song Min Jeong , Jo Uiree , Jeong Ji‐Seon , Cho Kyung‐Ja , Gong Gyungyub , Cho Yong Mee , Song Joon Seon
Published: November 2021

Introduction

A pericardial effusion (PE) has a variable etiology and the primary role is diagnosis of metastatic malignancy. We analyzed the PE cytology in a large cohort in accordance with the international system for reporting serous fluid cytopathology (ISRSFC) and evaluated the long‐term patient outcomes.

Methods

PE specimens from 2010 to 2014 with an available clinical history, cytologic data, and pericardial biopsy results were collected.

Results

A total of 574 PE specimens were obtained from 486 patients, representing 1.5% (574/38,589) of all body fluid specimens. Three hundred and eighty‐two (66.6%) cases were “negative,” 54 (9.4%) cases were “atypia of undetermined significance,” 10 (1.7%) cases were “suspicious for malignancy,” and 128 (22.3%) cases were “malignancy”. The most common origin for malignant PE was the lung (82.1%), in both men (70.5%) and women (50.6%). Breast cancer (20%) in women and gastric cancer (4.9%) in men were the second most common malignant PE, respectively. The mean interval from the occurrence of malignant PE to death was 10.06 months (range; 0–116.03 months, median 3.5 months), and the 1‐year survival rate was 16.7%. In addition, the 1‐year survival rates after malignant PE onset were 0% for gastric cancer, 13.9% for lung cancer, 19.8% for breast cancer, and 21.1% for the other cancers (p = 0.011).

Conclusion

Our present study is the first to our knowledge to classify the pericardial fluid from 574 cases in accordance with the recently published ISRSFC, and to present the long‐term outcomes of patients with malignant PE at the same time. Moreover, we report for the first time that it is gastric and not lung cancer patients that have the poorest prognosis after the occurrence of malignant PE.
How positive parenting for infants can reduce ASD at age 3
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2021

Infants who show early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have reduced severity of ASD behaviors if given preemptive interventions, a randomized clinical trial has found.
Screen time and the pandemic: What is next?
Authors: Walters Anne S.
Published: November 2021

In the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic, professionals often recommended that families relax the rules about screen time because of the loss and isolation that many families were experiencing. As quarantines and social distancing wore on (and on), many of us began to wonder whether this was a good idea, because pulling back has been a challenge for some children — particularly those that might be more prone to isolation for psychiatric or psychosocial reasons.
Positive experiences for children help prevent violence
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2021

All violence is preventable, and if young people grow up violence‐free, they are more likely to have longer lives and fewer emotional and physical health problems. But too often, teens experience violence, which, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), includes physical fighting, sexual violence, dating violence, and bullying.
In Vivo Whole‐Nerve Electrophysiology Setup, Action Potential Recording, and Data Analyses in a Rodent Model
Authors: Zhao Diane , Behzadian Negin , Yeomans David , Anderson T. Anthony
Published: November 2021

In vivo rodent, whole peripheral nerve models are useful for studying the electrical conduction of sensory and motor fibers under normal physiological conditions as well as for assessing neurological outcomes after the application of physical alterations or pharmacological agents to the nervous system. Significant literature has focused on single‐neuron and central nervous system electrophysiology protocol development. However, creation and development of in vivo whole‐nerve electrophysiological recording protocols are sparse in the scientific literature. Here, detailed protocols for designing and building an in vivo whole‐nerve electrophysiology system are described, including straightforward techniques to create working stimulation and recording electrodes that may be adapted to numerous study designs. Further, we include details for rodent anesthesia, surgical dissection (for the sciatic nerve), compound action potential signal optimization, data acquisition, data analyses, and troubleshooting tips. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: In vivo electrophysiology system wiring, hardware, and software setups

Support Protocol 1: Design and 3D printing of electrophysiology base electrodes

Support Protocol 2: Building needle electrodes

Basic Protocol 2: Rodent anesthesia and surgery for nerve exposure

Basic Protocol 3: Compound action potential recording and troubleshooting using WinWCP

Basic Protocol 4: Compound action potential data analysis using WinWCP
A Robust Protocol for CRISPR‐Cas9 Gene Editing in Human Suspension Cell Lines
Authors: Wardyn Joanna D. , Chan Allison S. Y. , Jeyasekharan Anand D.
Published: November 2021

The implementation of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)‐Cas9 systems in mammalian cells has sparked an exciting new era in targeted gene editing. CRISPR‐Cas9 technologies allow gene function to be interrogated by gene deletions, mutations, and truncations, and by epitope tagging and promoter activity modulation. Many robust protocols have been published to date on CRISPR‐Cas9 techniques, however, most of these focus on adherent cell lines. Suspension cell lines, typically of hematolymphoid origin, such as Jurkat, Daudi, and TOLEDO, pose unique challenges to the setup of CRISPR experiments. Here, using B cell lymphoma cells as a primary model, we describe a comprehensive protocol for targeted gene manipulations using the CRISPR‐Cas9 system in suspension cells. We also highlight necessary optimization steps to make this approach universal to other suspension cell lines. We first describe a detailed protocol for transient expression of the Cas9 nuclease and guide RNAs. We then suggest workflows for obtaining single‐cell clones and for screening for successful homozygous knockout (KO) clones in suspension lines. This protocol aims to serve as a comprehensive resource to facilitate gene editing experiments for users starting CRISPR‐Cas9 gene editing protocols on suspension cell lines or those looking to optimize their current workflows. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Transient CRISPR Cas9‐gRNA delivery for gene knockout by NeonTM electroporation

Support Protocol 1: Designing and preparing gene‐specific gRNA

Support Protocol 2: Preparation of conditioned medium and culture vessels for single‐cell FACS

Alternate Protocol 1: Transient CRISPR Cas9‐gRNA delivery for gene knockout by Nepagene electroporator

Basic Protocol 2: FACS and single‐cell clone generation

Alternate Protocol 2: Manual cell dilution to obtain single‐cell clones

Basic Protocol 3: Confirming indels status in single‐cell clones by PCR on genomic DNA and Sanger sequencing
A 10‐MHz to 50‐GHz low‐jitter multiphase clock generator for high‐speed oscilloscope in 0.15‐μm GaAs technology
Authors: Wu Tianxiang , Wang Xi , Chen Yong , Ren Junyan , Ma Shunli
Published: November 2021

The data acquisition system is widely used in electronic measuring instruments, for example, the oscilloscope. The development direction of the oscilloscope reflects the research status and development trend of the data acquisition system. Currently, the index of oscilloscopes is progressing toward a high sampling rate, and the performance of the analog‐to‐digital converter (ADC) has become the main bottleneck to improve the sampling rate of the acquisition system. The alternate sampling technology entails multichannel low sampling rate ADCs to achieve high sampling rate data acquisition through parallel sampling and realize data reconstruction through software. The sampling clock is the most important and difficult part of the system. For ADCs with the 100‐GS/s sampling rate and 10‐bit resolution, the jitter of the sampling clock needs to be in sub‐100 fs along with multiple phases. Based on the principle of injection locking, a 150‐GS/s sampling clock is proposed in this paper, which is implemented in a 0.15‐μm GaAs process, and the 50‐GHz locking range is achieved. The measurement results show that the sampling frequency is 150 GS/s, the root mean square (RMS) jitter is 63 fs with the integrated range from 1 kHz to 10 MHz, and the phase noise can meet the sampling requirements of the 10‐bit oscilloscope, which can provide a clocking scheme for small and low‐power ultrahigh‐speed oscilloscope.
The multicellular signalling network of ovarian cancer metastases
Authors: Sommerfeld Leah , Finkernagel Florian , Jansen Julia M. , Wagner Uwe , Nist Andrea , Stiewe Thorsten , Müller‐Brüsselbach Sabine , Sokol Anna M. , Graumann Johannes , Reinartz Silke , Müller Rolf
Published: November 2021

Background

Transcoelomic spread is the major route of metastasis of ovarian high‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) with the omentum as the major metastatic site. Its unique tumour microenvironment with its large populations of adipocytes, mesothelial cells and immune cells establishes an intercellular signaling network that is instrumental for metastatic growth yet poorly understood.

Methods

Based on transcriptomic analysis of tumour cells, tumour‐associated immune and stroma cells we defined intercellular signaling pathways for 284 cytokines and growth factors and their cognate receptors after bioinformatic adjustment for contaminating cell types. The significance of individual components of this network was validated by analysing clinical correlations and potentially pro‐metastatic functions, including tumour cell migration, pro‐inflammatory signal transduction and TAM expansion.

Results

The data show an unexpected prominent role of host cells, and in particular of omental adipocytes, mesothelial cells and fibroblasts (CAF), in sustaining this signaling network. These cells, rather than tumour cells, are the major source of most cytokines and growth factors in the omental microenvironment (n = 176 vs. n = 13). Many of these factors target tumour cells, are linked to metastasis and are associated with a short survival. Likewise, tumour stroma cells play a major role in extracellular‐matrix‐triggered signaling. We have verified the functional significance of our observations for three exemplary instances. We show that the omental microenvironment (i) stimulates tumour cell migration and adhesion via WNT4 which is highly expressed by CAF; (ii) induces pro‐tumourigenic TAM proliferation in conjunction with high CSF1 expression by omental stroma cells and (iii) triggers pro‐inflammatory signaling, at least in part via a HSP70–NF‐κB pathway.

Conclusions

The intercellular signaling network of omental metastases is majorly dependent on factors secreted by immune and stroma cells to provide an environment that supports ovarian HGSC progression. Clinically relevant pathways within this network represent novel options for therapeutic intervention.
A European pilot study in Dravet Syndrome to delineate what really matters for the patients and families
Authors: Chemaly Nicole , Kuchenbuch Mathieu , Teng Théo , Marie Elodie , D'Onofrio Gianluca , Lo Barco Tommaso , Brambilla Isabella , Flege Silke , Hallet Anne‐Sophie , Nabbout Rima
Published: November 2021

We aimed to identify caregivers' opinions on the outcome measures that matter in clinical trials in individuals with Dravet syndrome (DS). We conducted a prospective European multicenter study based on an 11 closed questions survey developed by the French reference center for rare epilepsies and DS patients’ advocacy groups. Items included questions on seizures and daily life outcomes that a clinical trial on a therapy for individuals with DS should target. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of the country of residence and of the patients’ age. The survey was answered by 153 caregivers (68%: France, 28%: Germany, and 24%: Italy) off individuals with DS. Individuals with DS included 86 males (mean age of 11.4 [interquartile: 7‐20.4] years). Families ranked as important almost all the items proposed. However, items related to daily life had the highest rank in all three countries compared to items about seizures (P = 0.02). Increase in individuals’ age was associated with a higher age at diagnosis (ρ = 0.26, P = 0.02), and a lower impact of seizure duration (ρ = −0.25, P = 0.005) and on the need of hospital referral (ρ = −0.26, P = 0.005). These data can help tailor patient‐centered outcome measures in future clinical and real‐life trials for DS.
Tributary fans of the Middle Teesta Basin in Sikkim‐Darjeeling Himalaya, NE India: Their contribution to valley‐filling processes
Authors: Lukram Ingocha Meetei , Tandon Sampat Kumar
Published: November 2021

Tributary fan deposits in the Sikkim Himalaya are well preserved in the Teesta Valley in the tectonic zone bounded by the Main Central Thrust and the Main Boundary Thrust. The lithofacies characteristics and assemblage patterns of these deposits bear imprints of the linked effects of tectonic and climatic factors on the sedimentation processes in the river valley. Two tributary streams, namely Turung Khola and Bembung Khola have been studied in detail. Three major fanlobes are preserved at Turung Khola and two fanlobes are preserved at the Bembung Khola. Terraces, floodplains, channel bars, and chute bars are associated with geomorphic features in this part of the Teesta Basin. Longitudinal profiles of the tributaries and that of the trunk river indicate a relationship between the knick points and high SL‐Index values, where fault/thrust intersections are present. Sediment characteristics of these fan deposits indicate that four types of flows viz. debris flows (DF), hyperconcentrated flows (HF), sheet flows (SF), and channel flows (CF) deposited these sequences. The CF deposits are dominant in the fan sequence of the Turung Khola followed by SF deposits, HF deposits, and debris flow deposits respectively. HF deposits are dominant in the F1 fanlobe sequence, whereas the active channel fanlobe is dominated by the CF deposits. The rest of the active channel sequence is composed of SF deposits. On the other hand, the F1 fanlobe of Bembung Khola is made up of DF deposits and F0 fanlobe is composed of channel flow deposits and flood sediment. Interactions between the tributary fans and the main Teesta River are studied using lithofacies and the associated morphological context. From the above analysis, an evolutionary model for depositional and incision processes at the tributary stream fan confluence allows the reconstruction of five phases of incision and aggradation through the last ~45 ka.
Ten simple rules for reporting machine learning methods implementation and evaluation on biomedical data
Authors: Seghier Mohamed L.
Published: November 2021

There is a huge discrepancy in how researchers implement, evaluate, and report the performance of a machine learning method for classification or segmentation of biomedical data. Poor reporting and inadequate inferences are, however, not unusual to see in current literature. More specifically, vague aims and scope, missing details about the data, ambiguous preprocessing procedures, lack of clarity regarding the method's implementation, poor validation and testing, invalid comparisons between methods, and the absence of a clear rationale for performance metric choices are making it difficult to draw the right conclusions from many studies in the field. This report suggests 10 guidelines and principles that should be followed when reporting the implementation of a method and the evaluation of its performance in order to make the study transparent, interpretable, replicable, and useful. All stages of data processing and method's performance evaluation should be clearly described, and parameters and metric choices must be justified in order to aid readers in appreciating the performance of the method or in comparing it with other relevant methods. We feel that these guidelines are important for clear scientific communication in the field of biomedical data processing.
Thirty years of fruitful collaborations between a physician and mass spectrometrists in diabetes field
Authors: Lapolla Annunziata
Published: November 2021

The nonenzymatic protein glycation and the subsequent formation of advanced glycation end products is a process involved in the long‐term complications of diabetes. In this context the collaboration, in the last 30 years, between my research group, operating in the DPT of Medicine of Padua University, and the mass spectrometric group, operating in CNR of Padua, are described and discussed. The development of new mass spectrometric techniques has allowed investigation more indepth, starting from the applications on small molecules responsible for the browning observed in the interactions between sugars and proteins, and growing up to intact proteins as albumin, immunoglobulin, hemoglobin, and so forth, with the determination of their glycation levels as well as their glycation sites. This study has helped to clarify the role of advanced glycation end products in the pathogenesis of the chronic complications of diabetes. In particular the results obtained in diabetic nephropathy, diabetic cardiovascular disease and in placenta samples of patients affected by gestational diabetes are described in this review.