bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New suitable deprotonating matrices for the analysis of carboxylic acids and some acidic compounds by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry in negative ion mode
Authors: Krivosheina Mariya S. , Borisov Roman S. , Zhilyaev Dmitry I. , Matveeva Mariya D. , Zaikin Vladimir G.
Published: September 2020

Rationale

Direct non‐derivatization analysis of organic acids and acidic compounds by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) in positive ion mode is not always possible due to the low ionization efficiency of analytes. Some new efficient deprotonating matrices were suggested that allowed the production of negative ions from acidic compounds during MALDI‐MS experiments.

Methods

Various tested carboxyl‐containing compounds as well as compounds with acidic properties were mixed with the suggested deprotonating matrices [4‐dimethylaminobenzaldehyde (DMABA), N,N‐dimethylamino‐p‐phenylenediamine or 3‐aminoquinoline] and applied on a standard MALDI target followed by recording MALDI mass spectra in negative ion mode.

Results

All the tested acidic compounds mixed with the suggested deprotonating matrices produced abundant [M − H]− ions under MALDI conditions. DMABA produced the strongest signals reflecting greater sensitivity of analysis.

Conclusions

The suggested deprotonating matrices are commercially available compounds and are good alternatives to well‐known matrices of this kind and, in particular, the often used 9‐aminoacridine. DMABA is the best of the tested potential matrices and is suitable for the detection of low molecular weight carboxyl‐containing compounds, substituted phenols, and mixtures of naphthenic acids by (−)MALDI‐MS.
First in‐human experience with a novel robotic platform and Magnetic Surgery System
Authors: Barajas‐Gamboa Juan S. , Huidobro Felipe , Jensen Joaquin , Luengas Rafael , Rodriguez John , Abril Carlos , Corcelles Ricard , Kroh Matthew
Published: September 2020

Background

Magnetic technologies have been introduced to reduce invasiveness of surgical procedures. This study was aimed to analyse the performance of a novel combined magnetic‐robotic controller as an enhanced accessory to the Magnetic Surgical System in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC).

Methods

This was a prospective study of 10 consecutive patients undergoing LC with this novel surgical system.

Results

Ten patients were included, nine were female. The mean age was 30.3 ± 9 years. All patients had chronic cholecystitis. Procedures were completed successfully. The median operative time was 50 ± 11 min. The system performed effectively in all cases with no need of additional interventions. There were no device‐related complications or side effects. All patients were discharged the same day. Recovery was uneventful during follow‐up.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the first in‐human successful performance of surgeries utilizing a novel combination of magnetic and robotic technologies in one integrated system.
Uptake and accessibility of surgical robotics in England
Authors: Lam Kyle , Clarke Jonathan , Purkayastha Sanjay , Kinross James M.
Published: September 2020

Background

The distribution, utilisation and accessibility of surgical robotics in England is unknown.

Methods

A nationwide Freedom of Information (FOI) request was sent to all acute National Health Service (NHS) trusts. Accessibility was assessed for 32 843 Lower Super Output Areas in England.

Results

All 149 acute NHS trusts responded to the FOI request. Sixty‐one robots are distributed between 48 trusts. The number of robots and robotic procedures has increased annually. Urological procedures comprise 84.2% of robotic procedures. Procedure volume varies between robotic centres ranging from 1 to 683 in 2018. Over 2.4 million people have a travel time of over 1 hour to their nearest robotic centre.

Discussion

National accessibility to robotic services and case volumes are variable and does not represent good value for the NHS. A national robotic surgery registry could improve the quality of robotic surgery and is needed to dynamically assess national provision of this technology.
Ivor‐Lewis oesophagectomy: A standardized operative technique in 11 steps
Authors: Franke Frederike , Moeller Thorben , Mehdorn Anne‐Sophie , Beckmann Jan Henrik , Becker Thomas , Egberts Jan‐Hendrik
Published: September 2020

Synopsis

Standardization of robotic oesophagectomy can benefit both patients and surgeons by decreasing complications, shortening the learning curve and improving surgical training.

Background

Thoraco‐abdominal oesophagectomy with lymphadenectomy is the cornerstone of curative therapy for oesophageal carcinoma. To reduce post‐operative morbidity, minimally invasive technology has become increasingly established. Conventional thoraco‐laparoscopic procedures, however, are limited by their technical feasibility. These limitations can be overcome using robot‐assisted technology.

Methods

Robotic Ivor‐Lewis oesophageal resection has gradually been implemented in our clinic from 2013. We have performed over 250 robot‐assisted minimally invasive oesophagectomies and more than 2000 robotic procedures overall. This experience allowed us to establish a standardized operative technique.

Results

We identified 11 operative steps as key elements for oesophageal resection, which should help implementation of this technique and allow surgeons to approach this complex procedure with greater confidence.

Conclusion

Standardization is fundamental to the establishment of a new surgical technique and is a key element in the learning curve of Ivor‐Lewis oesophageal resection. Standardization can lead to better reproducibility of results, and thus to improved quality.
Two‐stage recursive identification algorithms for a class of nonlinear time series models with colored noise
Authors: Xu Huan , Ding Feng , Gan Min , Yang Erfu
Published: September 2020

This article concentrates on the recursive identification algorithms for the exponential autoregressive model with moving average noise. Using the decomposition technique, we transform the original identification model into a linear and nonlinear subidentification model and derive a two‐stage least squares (LS) extended stochastic gradient (ESG) algorithm. In order to improve the parameter estimation accuracy, we employ the multi‐innovation identification theory and develop a two‐stage LS multi‐innovation ESG algorithm. A simulation example is provided to test the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
River segmentation for autonomous surface vehicle localization and river boundary mapping
Authors: Meier Kevin , Chung Soon‐Jo , Hutchinson Seth
Published: September 2020

We present a vision‐based algorithm that identifies the boundary separating water from land in a river environment containing specular reflections. Our approach relies on the law of reflection. Assuming the surface of water behaves like a horizontal mirror, the border separating land from water corresponds to the border separating three‐dimensional (3D) data which are either above or below the surface of water. We detect a river by identifying this border in a stereo camera. We start by demonstrating how to robustly estimate the normal and height of the water's surface with respect to a stereo camera. Then, we segment water from land by identifying the boundary separating dense 3D stereo data which are either above or below the water's surface. We explicitly show how to find this boundary by formulating and solving a graph‐based optimization problem using dense 3D stereo data near the shoreline and Dijkstra's algorithm. With the border of water identified, we validate the proposed river boundary detection algorithm by applying it to a chronologically sequential video sequence obtained from the visual‐inertial canoe data set. The intended purpose of the proposed river segmentation algorithm is to be used as a front‐end object recognition module for solving the simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) problem; therefore, using the extracted river boundary, we apply the recently developed visual‐inertial Curve SLAM algorithm to localize a canoe and create a sparse map that recovers the outline, shape, and dimensions of the shoreline of a river.
The Glauber dynamics for edge‐colorings of trees
Authors: Delcourt Michelle , Heinrich Marc , Perarnau Guillem
Published: September 2020

LetTbe a tree onnvertices and with maximum degree. We show that forthe Glauber dynamics fork‐edge‐ colorings ofTmixes in polynomial time inn. The bound on the number of colors is best possible as the chain is not even ergodic for. Our proof uses a recursive decomposition of the tree into subtrees; we bound the relaxation time of the original tree in terms of the relaxation time of its subtrees using block dynamics and chain comparison techniques. Of independent interest, we also introduce a monotonicity result for Glauber dynamics that simplifies our proof.
A study of human leukocyte antigen-haploidentical hematopoietic stem cells transplantation combined with allogenic mesenchymal stem cell infusion for treatment of severe aplastic anemia in pediatric and adolescent patients
Authors: Ding Li , Han Dong-Mei , Zheng Xiao-Li , Yan Hong-Min , Xue Mei , Liu Jing , Zhu Ling , Li Sheng , Mao Ning , Guo Zi-Kuan , Ning Hong-Mei , Wang Heng-Xiang , Zhu Heng
Published: September 2020

The clinical applications of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haploidentical hematopoietic stem cells transplantation (haplo-HSCT) have offered most of the young severe aplastic anemia (SAA) patients an opportunity to accept curative therapy at the early stage of bone marrow lesions. However, the outcome of juvenile SAA patients received haplo-HSCT remain to be improved due to high incidence of graft failure and graft vs host disease (GVHD). Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been characterized by their hematopoiesis-supporting and immunomodulatory properties. In the current study, we designed a combination of haplo-HSCT with allogenic MSC for treatment of SAA in pediatric and adolescent patients and evaluated its effects. Juvenile patients (<18 years) with SAA (n = 103) were given HLA-haploidentical HSC combined with allogenic MSC after a conditioning regimen consisting of busulfan, cyclophosphamide, fludarabine, and antithymocyte globulin and an intensive GVHD prophylaxis, including cyclosporine, short-term methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, and basiliximab. Neutrophil engraftment was achieved in 102 of 103 patients in a median time of 14.3 days (range 9-25 days). The median time of platelet engraftment was 25.42 days (range 8-93 days). The cumulative incidence of II-IV acute GVHD at day +100 was 26.32% ± 0.19% and III-IV acute GVHD was 6.79% ± 0.06% at day +100, respectively. The cumulative incidence of chronic GVHD was 25.56% ± 0.26%. The overall survival was 87.15% ± 3.3% at a median follow-up of 40 (1.3-98) months. Our data suggest that cotransplantation of HLA-haploidentical HSC and allogenic mesenchymal stem cell may provide an effective and safe treatment for children and adolescents with SAA who lack matched donors.
Bitcoin and its spheres of consumption: Transactional orders of consuming money in the Czech and Slovak Bitcoin community
Authors: Tremčinský Martin
Published: September 2020

With the recent proliferation of modes of payment, anthropology must increasingly pay closer attention to innovative designs and uses of money in Western societies. Money has started to be perceived as a consumable service with multiple providers from which to choose. In such an environment, the question of how people consume money—instead of how they consume with money—grows in importance. This article is based on ethnographic research of Bitcoin communities in Prague and Bratislava. It examines how users variously consume Bitcoin and what consequences these diverse ways of consumption can have for the Bitcoin economy. The article identifies two discrete spheres of consumption that closely correlate with “transactional orders” or spheres of exchange as described in classical works of economic anthropology, for example, by Parry and Bloch. One of the spheres is concerned with the reproduction of social order, while the other considers the personal gain of individual consumers. The article also examines the tension between these two spheres and how it is dialectically resolved through strategies of conversion. In the final discussion, the case of Bitcoin is compared with other anthropological accounts of spheres of exchange, with special attention oriented to their dissimilarities.
Gaming the crisis: Derivatives and unemployment in Spain
Authors: Núñez Jorge
Published: September 2020

This article analyzes nonprofessional trading in derivatives during the Great Spanish Recession. It depicts playful engagements with speculative forms of credit and debt on the part of everyday people facing mass unemployment. The article calls into question contemporary theories of debt that characterize it as inherently destructive or inherently productive. My main argument suggests that credit‐debt dyads are constant sites of manipulation, negotiation, and improvisation informed by multiple registers of affect, knowledge, and value. In showing how play and playfulness arise in the field of finance, my research sheds light on extractive business models that exploit socioeconomic uncertainties as well as labor reforms advanced in times of recession. My ethnography traverses a variety of social terrains ranging from social media to brokerage firms, trading courses, stock exchanges, and self‐help workshops in order to complicate further the anthropological work on financialization. Without denying the negative and damaging effects of financialization, I focus on the contradictory ways in which ordinary citizens become financial subjects.
Like clouds in a windy sky: Mindfulness training reduces negative affect reactivity in daily life in a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wenzel Mario , Rowland Zarah , Kubiak Thomas
Published: September 2020

While prior research has found mindfulness to be linked with emotional responses to events, less is known about this effect in a non‐clinical sample. Even less is known regarding the mechanisms of the underlying processes: It is unclear whether participants who exhibit increased acceptance show decreased emotional reactivity (i.e., lower affective responses towards events overall) or a speedier emotional recovery (i.e., subsequent decrease in negative affect) due to adopting an accepting stance. To address these questions, we re‐analysed two Ambulatory Assessment data sets. The first (NStudy1 = 125) was a 6‐week randomized controlled trial (including a 40‐day ambulatory assessment); the second (NStudy2 = 175) was a 1‐week ambulatory assessment study. We found state mindfulness to be more strongly associated with emotional reactivity than with recovery, and that only emotional reactivity was significantly dampened by mindfulness training. Regarding the different facets of mindfulness, we found that the strongest predictor of both emotional reactivity and recovery was non‐judgemental acceptance. Finally, we found that being aware of one's own thoughts and behaviour could be beneficial or detrimental for emotional recovery, depending on whether participants accepted their thoughts and emotions. Together, these findings provide evidence for predictions derived from the monitoring and acceptance theory.
Tailoring the Grain Boundaries of Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells by Molecular Engineering
Authors: Emshadi Khalid , Ghimire Nabin , Gurung Ashim , Bahrami Behzad , Pathak Rajesh , Bobba Raja Sekhar , Lamsal Buddhi Sagar , Rahman Sheikh Ifatur , Chowdhury Ashraful Haider , Chen Ke , Laskar Md Ashiqur Rahman , Luo Wenqin , Elbohy Hytham , Qiao Quinn
Published: September 2020

Due to the attraction of fabricating highly efficient tandem solar cells, wide‐bandgap perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted substantial interest in recent years. However, polycrystalline perovskite thin‐films show the existence of trap states at grain boundaries which diminish the optoelectronic properties of the perovskite and thus remains a challenge. Here, a one‐step solution‐processing of wide‐bandgap perovskite using phenylhydrazine iodide with amino groups is demonstrated to successfully passivate the trap density within grain boundaries and increase the perovskite grain size. The reinforced morphology and grain boundaries treatment considerably enhanced the power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 12.16% for pristine to 14.63% for the treated devices. This strategy can be easily adopted to other perovskites and help realize highly efficient perovskite solar cells.
Single‐Atom Materials: Small Structures Determine Macroproperties
Authors: Yang Jiarui , Li Wenhao , Wang Dingsheng , Li Yadong
Published: September 2020

Single‐atom materials (SAMs) have been widely investigated during the past years, providing many high‐performance materials applied in catalyst, battery, solar cell, and so on. The high performance that SAM exhibit is largely attributed to the microstructure inside the SAM. It is thus essential to realize the goal of regulating the structures, as the chemists wish and deeply comprehend the relationship between the macroproperties and the small structures. However, the concerns above are far from realization and more efforts are necessary to be put into this field. Herein, the regulation on microstructures, the characterization on the microstructures and the relationship between the macroproperties and the small structures are comprehensively summarized and discussed, which are mainly based on the application of SAM in catalyst. Based on the basic information earlier, the challenge and future development of SAM are also proposed, aiming to emerge an overall view and guideline to the research on the next step.
Morphological, Thermal, and Rheological Properties of Starch from Potatoes Grown in Mexico
Authors: Cira‐Chávez Luis Alberto , Gassós‐Ortega Laura E. , García‐Encinas Nora Lilia , Castillo‐Zamora Mariana , Ruíz‐Cruz Saúl , Bello‐Pérez Luis A. , Estrada‐Alvarado María Isabel
Published: September 2020

The morphological, thermal, and rheological properties of potato starch from three cultivars in the State of Sonora, Mexico, are evaluated. Content of starch, moisture, purity, and amylose vary from 11.8% to 14%, 9.2% to 11.2%, 78.2% to 83.0%, and 20.0% to 29.9%, respectively. The size and shape of the starch granules are similar among the cultivars. The granules show birefringence, which indicates the presence of a structural arrangement of their components (amylose and amylopectin). The highest peak temperature is observed in “Fiana” starch (67.0 ± 0.3 °C), even though gelatinization enthalpy is similar for the three starch sources (9.1 to 10.1 J g−1), indicating a similar arrangement of the double helixes of the amylopectin. The percentage of retrogradation is highest in “Vivaldi” starch (38.2%), which is similar to “Atlantic” (32.1%). Regarding the pasta profiles, the highest viscosity is as found in “Vivaldi” starch (95.1 mPa s−1). Due to its physicochemical properties, isolated starches produced from potatoes grown in Mexico have the potential to be used in industrial applications.
Banana Starch: Properties Illustration and Food Applications—A Review
Authors: Dhull Sanju Bala , Malik Tanu , Kaur Ramandeep , Kumar Pradyuman , Kaushal Naveet , Singh Ajay
Published: September 2020

Bananas are a valuable crop that are embedded with various micronutrients. Unripe bananas are of interest because they are used by commercial interests as a source of starch. These starches can be modified to resistant forms to slow digestibility and lower glycemic index. In this context, they are of interest in diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease research. Additionally, there is pharmaceutical interest in modified banana starches in terms of drug delivery and in the textile industry as filler in yarn. Due to the texturizing capacity, mouthfeel, and palatability of banana starches, the beverage, bakery, and confectionery industries have investigated their use for novel formulations. This Review summarizes the properties and applications of banana starches.
Construction of high‐density genetic linkage map and mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) for flowering time in autotetraploid alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) using genotyping by sequencing
Authors: Zhang Fan , Kang Junmei , Long Ruicai , Yu Long‐Xi , Sun Yan , Wang Zhen , Zhao Zhongxiang , Zhang Tiejun , Yang Qingchuan
Published: September 2020

Flowering time is an important agronomic trait of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). Managing flowering time can produce economic benefits for farmers. To understand the genetic basis of this trait, quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping was conducted in a full‐sib population that consisted of 392 individuals segregating based on flowering time. High density linkage maps were constructed using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers generated by genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS). The linkage maps contained 3,818 SNP markers on 64 linkage groups in two parents. The average marker density was 4.33 cM for Parent 1 (P1) and 1.47 cM for Parent 2 (P2). Phenotypic data for flowering time was collected for three years at one location. Twenty‐eight QTLs were identified associated with flowering time. Eleven QTLs explained more than 10% of the phenotypic variation. Among them, five main effect QTLs located on linkage group (LG) 7D of P1 and five main effect QTLs located on LG 6D of P2 were identified. Three QTLs were co‐located with other QTLs. The identified linked markers to QTLs could be used for marker‐assisted selection in breeding programs to develop new alfalfa varieties to modulate flowering time.
Promotion of enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass using natural additives for bioethanol production
Authors: Rajeswari K. , Rekha B. , Saravanathamizhan Ramanujam
Published: September 2020

Pretreatment is used to reduce the lignin and hemicellulose content present in biomass as they are inhibitory to the hydrolysis of cellulose. As time proceeds, it is found that redeposition of lignin occurs on the biomass surface. This paper focuses on the preparation of natural additives using soy‐protein extract, and it is used for the enhancement of enzymatic hydrolysis. Acid pretreatment followed by hydrogen peroxide and hot‐water pretreatment has been attempted for the black urad dhal (Vigna mungo) biomass. Hot‐water–pretreated biomass was further subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis using additives. The nonproductive lignin binding on to the surface of the biomass lowers the activity of the enzyme and increases the requirement of enzymes for the hydrolysis of cellulose. The hydrolyzed biomass subjected to bioethanol production using saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is noticed that the bioethanol produced using hot‐water pretreatment with additives and acid pretreated biomass with additives has a concentration of about 0.443  and 0.204 mL/g, respectively.
A rapid and simple single‐step method for the purification of Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites and bradyzoites
Authors: El‐Ashram Saeed , Zhang Yu , Ji Yongsheng , Salama Dina , Mei Kun , Zhili Li , Shujian Huang , Zhang Haoji , Aboelhadid Shawky M. , Alajmi Reem A. , Metwally Dina M. , El‐Khadragy Manal F. , Hargis Billy M. , Tellez‐Isaias Guillermo , Cenci‐Goga Beniamino T. , Karama Musafiri , Marufu Munyaradzi C. , Abouhajer Fathi , Ali Abdelhafez Hamady Gamal , El Wakil Abeer , Al Nasr Ibrahim , Suo Xun
Published: September 2020

This study describes a simple method for the large‐scale isolation of pure Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites and bradyzoites. T. gondii tachyzoites were obtained from infected human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs) and peritoneal exudates of mice, while tissue cysts containing bradyzoites were collected from chronically infected mice. Harvested cells and brain tissues were incubated in Hanks balanced salt solution (HBSS), containing 0.25% trypsin and 0.5% taurodeoxycholic acid (TDC) for 5 min. Subsequent washes in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were conducted, and the cell viability of the preparations was good, as determined by flow cytometry and ability to reinfect HFF cells and propagate in mice. The purification procedure allowed for a rapid preparation of pure T. gondii tachyzoites and bradyzoites in sufficient quantity that can be used for downstream procedures. The advantage of the new method is that it is convenient and inexpensive.
LaNiGe with Non‐centrosymmetric LaPtSi Type Structure
Authors: Zaremba Nazar , Pavlosiuk Orest , Muts Ihor , Nychyporuk Galyna , Pavlyuk Volodymyr , Kaczorowski Dariusz , Pöttgen Rainer , Zaremba Vasyl
Published: September 2020

The equiatomic germanide LaNiGe was synthesized from the elements by arc‐melting and subsequent annealing at 1173 K for 14 days. Its non‐centrosymmetric LaPtSi type structure was refined from single‐crystal X‐ray diffractometer data: I41md, a = 420.80(6), c = 1440.3(3) pm, wR = 0.0477, 284 F2 values and 14 variables. The nickel and germanium atoms build up a three‐dimensional [NiGe]δ– polyanionic network (2 × 241 and 1 × 242 pm Ni–Ge) in which the lanthanum atoms fill cavities with coordination number 12. This picture of chemical bonding is supported by an evaluation of the electron localization function. Physical properties of LaNiGe were studied by means of magnetic susceptibility, magnetization, specific heat and electrical resistivity measurements. The compound was found to be a Pauli paramagnet with a molar magnetic susceptibility of about χ = 1.6 × 10–4 emu·mol–1·Oe–1. The temperature dependence of the electrical resistivity shows Bloch‐Grüneissen‐Mott behavior indicating the metallic character of LaNiGe, which is in full agreement with the results of electronic structure and density of states calculations. No superconducting transition was observed in the temperature regime down to 1.72 K.
Optimization of the rectilinear motion of a capsule system along a rough plane
Authors: Figurina Tatiana , Glazkov Timur
Published: September 2020

A rectilinear motion of a capsule system along a horizontal rough plane is considered. The system consists of a housing and an internal mass moving periodically along an inclined straight guide rigidly connected to the housing. The friction between the housing and the underlying plane is assumed to be Coulomb's one. The motion of the housing with a periodically changing velocity is investigated. Such a motion may be reversible, in which case the housing alternately moves forward and backward, or irreversible, in which case the housing moves forward or stays at rest and never moves backward. The problem under consideration is the maximization of the distance traveled by the housing for a period with respect to the parameters of the system, for both reversible and irreversible modes of the motion.
EFT anomalous dimensions from the S-matrix
Authors: Miró Joan Elias , Ingoldby James , Riembau Marc
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We use the on-shell S-matrix and form factors to compute anomalous dimensions of higher dimension operators in the Standard Model Effective Field Theory. We find that in many instances, these computations are made simple by using the on-shell method. We first compute contributions to anomalous dimensions of operators at dimension-six that arise at one-loop. Then we calculate two-loop anomalous dimensions for which the corresponding one-loop contribution is absent, using this powerful method.
Abelian Higgs model in power-law inflation: the propagators in the unitary gauge
Authors: Glavan Dražen , Marunović Anja , Prokopec Tomislav , Zahraee Zahra
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We consider the Abelian Higgs model in the broken phase as a spectator in cosmological spaces of general D space-time dimensions, and allow for the condensate to be time-dependent. We fix the unitary gauge using Dirac’s formalism for constrained systems, and then quantize the gauge-fixed system. Vector and scalar perturbations develop time­dependent masses. We work out their propagators assuming the cosmological background is that of power-law inflation, characterized by a constant principal slow-roll parameter, and that the scalar condensate is in the attractor regime, scaling as the Hubble rate. Our propagators correctly reduce to known results in the Minkowski and de Sitter space limits. We use the vector propagator to compute the equal-time correlators of electric and magnetic fields and find that at super-Rubble separations the former is enhanced, while the latter is suppressed compared to the vacuum fluctuations of the massless vector field. These correlators satisfy the hierarchy governed by Faraday’s law.
SMOOTHNESS CONDITIONS IN COHOMOGENEITY ONE MANIFOLDS
Authors: VERDIANI L. , ZILLER W.
Published: September 2020

We present an efficient method for determining the conditions that a metric on a cohomogeneity one manifold, defined in terms of functions on the regular part, needs to satisfy in order to extend smoothly to the singular orbit.
The phytopathogen ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’ alters apple tree phloem composition and affects oviposition behavior of its vector Cacopsylla picta
Authors: Görg Louisa Maria , Gallinger Jannicke , Gross Jürgen
Published: September 2020

Apple proliferation disease is caused by the phloem-dwelling bacterium ‘CandidatusPhytoplasma mali’, inducing morphological changes in its host plant apple, such as witches’ broom formation. Furthermore, it triggers physiological alterations like emission of volatile organic compounds or phytohormone levels in the plant. In our study, we assessed phytoplasma-induced changes in the phloem by sampling phloem sap from infected and non-infected apple plants. In infected plants, the soluble sugar content increased and the composition of phloem metabolites differed significantly between non-infected and infected plants. Sugar and sugar alcohol levels increased in diseased plants, while organic and amino acid content remained constant. As ‘Ca. P. mali’ is vectored by the phloem-feeding insectCacopsylla picta(Foerster, 1848), we assessed whether the insect–plant interaction was affected by ‘Ca. P. mali’ infection of the common host plantMalus domesticaBorkh. Binary-choice oviposition bioassays between infected and non-infected apple leaves revealedC. picta’s preference for non-infected leaves. It is assumed and discussed that the changes in vector behavior are attributable to plant-mediated effects of the phytoplasma infection.
The Acute and Delayed Mortality of the Northern Krill (Meganyctiphanes norvegica) When Exposed to Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Escobar-Lux Rosa H. , Samuelsen Ole B.
Published: September 2020

Bath treatment pharmaceuticals used to control sea lice infestations in the salmonid industry, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), are released directly into the environment where non-target organisms are at risk of exposure. The aim of this study was to determine the threshold concentrations for mortality of the Northern krill, Meganyctiphanes norvegica, a major component of the north Atlantic marine ecosystem. To assess the lethal effects of H2O2, we carried out a series of 1 h acute toxicity tests and assessed mortality through a 48 h post-exposure period. One-hour exposure to 170 mg/L, corresponding to 10% of the recommended H2O2 treatment, caused 100% mortality and a subsequent acute median-lethal concentration LC50 value of 32.5 mg/L. Increased mortality was observed with time in all exposed groups, resulting in successively lower LC50 values during the post-exposure period. The suggested H2O2 concentrations have the potential of causing negative effects to the Northern krill.
Good outcomes of modified Grammont and Langenskiöld technique in children with habitual patellar dislocation
Authors: Musielak Bartosz Jan , Premakumaran Pirunthi , Janusz Piotr , Dziurda Magda , Koch Aleksander , Walczak Michał
Published: September 2020

Purpose

In this study, the functional mid-term outcomes of the modified Grammont and Langenskiöld technique was assessed in skeletally immature patients with habitual patellar dislocation, with emphasis on knee function, pain, and other possible post-surgical complications. This is the first study concerning the application of the modified Grammont and Langenskiöld technique in habitual patellar dislocations.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study considered 10 patients (15 knees), ranging from 7 to 11 years old, who underwent the modified Grammont and Langenskiold procedure between 2015 and 2018. History of dislocation, patellar stability and range of motion (ROM) were analysed. To assess functional improvement and knee pain, the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale and KOOS-Child Knee Survey were used before and after surgical treatment.

Results

No history of dislocation was noted after surgical treatment. All 15 knees showed full ROM. There were no signs of genu recurvatum and no length discrepancies were found. The subjective assessment revealed significant improvement in the scores of the KOOS-Child questionnaire in all five sections (p < 0.001), as well as in The Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The modified Grammont and Langenskiöld technique yields remarkable results in terms of knee stability and knee function, while decreasing recurrence risk and intensity of pain in patients with challenging cases of patellofemoral joint dislocation. This surgical technique is most effective in cases where the patella remains dislocated continuously; however, it may also be used in immature patients with recurrent instability.

Level of evidence

IV.
High degree of consensus achieved regarding diagnosis and treatment of acromioclavicular joint instability among ESA-ESSKA members
Authors: Rosso Claudio , Martetschläger Frank , Saccomanno Maristella F. , Voss Andreas , Lacheta Lucca ,   ESA DELPHI Consensus Panel, Ângelo Ana Catarina , Antonogiannakis Emmanuel , Azevedo Clara , Bak Klaus , Becirbegovic Semin , Beitzel Knut , Bilsel Kerem , Brzoska Roman , Calvo Angel , Charousset Christophe , Dyrna Felix , Brilakis Emmanuel , Franceschi Francesco , Glasson Jean Marc , Gleyze Pascal , Gomes Nuno , Hackney Roger , Hantes Michael , Karargyris Orestis , Karahan Mustafa , Kovacic Ladislav , Kubashev Alexander , Lacheta Lucca , Lorbach Olaf , Maben Benjo , Marjanovic Benjamin , Martetschlaeger Frank , Yiannakopolus Christos , Ostermann Roman C , Panagopoulos Andreas , Papadopoulos Perikles , Poberaj Boris , Rosso Claudio , Saccomanno Maristella Francesca , Smolen Daniel , Soler Francesc , Taverna Ettore , Toussaint Bruno , Vavken Patrick , Voss Andreas , Zurita Nestor , Beitzel Knut , Milano Giuseppe
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To develop a consensus on diagnosis and treatment of acromioclavicular joint instability.

Methods

A consensus process following the modified Delphi technique was conducted. Panel members were selected among the European Shoulder Associates of ESSKA. Five rounds were performed between October 2018 and November 2019. The first round consisted of gathering questions which were then divided into blocks referring to imaging, classifications, surgical approach for acute and chronic cases, conservative treatment. Subsequent rounds consisted of condensation by means of an online questionnaire. Consensus was achieved when ≥ 66.7% of the participants agreed on one answer. Descriptive statistic was used to summarize the data.

Results

A consensus was reached on the following topics. Imaging: a true anteroposterior or a bilateral Zanca view are sufficient for diagnosis. 93% of the panel agreed on clinical override testing during body cross test to identify horizontal instability. The Rockwood classification, as modified by the ISAKOS statement, was deemed valid. The separation line between acute and chronic cases was set at 3 weeks. The panel agreed on arthroscopically assisted anatomic reconstruction using a suspensory device (86.2%), with no need of a biological augmentation (82.8%) in acute injuries, whereas biological reconstruction of coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular ligaments with tendon graft was suggested in chronic cases. Conservative approach and postoperative care were found similar

Conclusion

A consensus was found on the main topics of controversy in the management of acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Each step of the diagnostic treatment algorithm was fully investigated and clarified.

Level of evidence

Level V.
Finite-dimensional pointed Hopf algebras over finite simple groups of Lie type V. Mixed classes in Chevalley and Steinberg groups
Authors: Andruskiewitsch Nicolás , Carnovale Giovanna , García Gastón Andrés
Published: September 2020

We show that all classes that are neither semisimple nor unipotent in finite simple Chevalley or Steinberg groups different from$$\mathbf {PSL}_n(q)$$PSLn(q)collapse (i.e. are never the support of a finite-dimensional Nichols algebra). As a consequence, we prove that the only finite-dimensional pointed Hopf algebra whose group of group-like elements is$$\mathbf {PSp}_{2n}(q)$$PSp2n(q),$$\mathbf {P}{\varvec{\Omega }}^+_{4n}(q)$$PΩ4n+(q),$$\mathbf {P}{\varvec{\Omega }}^-_{4n}(q)$$PΩ4n-(q),$$^3D_4(q)$$3D4(q),$$E_7(q)$$E7(q),$$E_8(q)$$E8(q),$$F_4(q)$$F4(q), or$$G_2(q)$$G2(q)withqeven is the group algebra.
Evaluation of a new adipose tissue processing method for breast and buttock fat grafting procedures
Authors: Auclair Eric , Gianfermi Massimo
Published: September 2020

Background

There is still some debate about the best adipose processing method for autologous fat transfer procedures. This article reports a series of 66 fat grafting procedures using a novel fat processing technique that involves washing, “micronization,” and decantation.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the files of all patients operated on over a 2-year period by the two investigators. They underwent breast or buttock surgery that employed the novel fat processing technique for fat transfer. Complications and patient satisfaction were recorded, and fat resorption was qualitatively assessed based on clinical examination and photographs.

Results

Data were retrieved from a total of 66 procedures performed on 43 patients: 17 breast augmentations, 8 buttock augmentations, and 41 breast reconstructions. Five patients also underwent concomitant facial fat grafting. The complications were one case of transient liponecrotic cyst in the breast, one case of transient areolar sensitivity reduction, and two cases of infection. The infections were reported in patients from the breast reconstruction cohort who had a history of radiotherapy. There was no complication associated with facial fat grafting. Patient satisfaction was achieved in 82.4 to 92.5% of cases depending on the study cohort. Fat resorption was graded as minimal to moderate in 95% of all cases.

Conclusions

This retrospective study supports the safety and effectiveness of this novel fat processing method in breast and buttock surgeries. Further controlled studies are needed to compare its performance with that of other techniques.

Level of evidence: Level III, therapeutic study
A Case Study of Eukaryogenesis: The Evolution of Photoreception by Photolyase/Cryptochrome Proteins
Authors: Miles Jennifer A. , Davies Thomas A. , Hayman Robert D. , Lorenzen Georgia , Taylor Jamie , Anjarwalla Mubeena , Allen Sammie J. R. , Graham John W. D. , Taylor Paul C.
Published: September 2020

Eukaryogenesis, the origin of the eukaryotes, is still poorly understood. Herein, we show how a detailed all-kingdom phylogenetic analysis overlaid with a map of key biochemical features can provide valuable clues. The photolyase/cryptochrome family of proteins are well known to repair DNA in response to potentially harmful effects of sunlight and to entrain circadian rhythms. Phylogenetic analysis of photolyase/cryptochrome protein sequences from a wide range of prokaryotes and eukaryotes points to a number of horizontal gene transfer events between ancestral bacteria and ancestral eukaryotes. Previous experimental research has characterised patterns of tryptophan residues in these proteins that are important for photoreception, specifically a tryptophan dyad, a canonical tryptophan triad, an alternative tryptophan triad, a tryptophan tetrad and an alternative tetrad. Our results suggest that the spread of the different triad and tetrad motifs across the kingdoms of life accompanied the putative horizontal gene transfers and is consistent with multiple bacterial contributions to eukaryogenesis.
Detection of EP300-ZNF384 fusion in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia using RNA fusion gene panel sequencing
Authors: Jing Yu , Li Yan-Fen , Wan Hua , Liu Dai-Hong
Published: September 2020

EP300-ZNF384 fusion is a rare recurrent cytogenetic abnormality associated with B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), which was rarely studied in Chinese patient cohort. Here, we used a customized RNA fusion gene panel to investigate gene fusions in 56 selected acute leukemia patients without conventional genetic abnormalities. Two EP300-ZNF384 fusion forms were detected in ten cases, which were in-frame fusions of EP300 exon 6 fused with exon 3 or 2 of ZNF384. The fusions led to the lack of most functional domains of EP300. We firstly reported EP300-ZNF384 fusion in a mixed-phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL) patient whose CD33 and CD13 were negative. The rest nine B-ALL patients with EP300-ZNF384 fusion expressed CD33 and/or CD13. Fifty-six percent of B-ALL patients (5/9) with EP300-ZNF384 fusion were positive with CD10. After the diagnosis of EP300-ZNF384 fusion, 70% of the patients achieved remission after chemotherapy. Our observations indicated that EP300-ZNF384 fusion consists of a distinct subgroup of B-ALL with a characteristic immunophenotype. These patients are sensitive to current chemotherapy regimen and have an excellent outcome.
Functional analysis of Cti6 core domain responsible for recruitment of epigenetic regulators Sin3, Cyc8 and Tup1
Authors: Aref Rasha , Schüller Hans-Joachim
Published: September 2020

Mapping of effective protein domains is a demanding stride to disclose the functional relationship between regulatory complexes. Domain analysis of protein interactions is requisite for understanding the pleiotropic responses of the respective partners. Cti6 is a multifunctional regulator for which we could show recruitment of co-repressors Sin3, Cyc8 and Tup1. However, the responsible core domain tethering Cti6 to these co-repressors is poorly understood. Here, we report the pivotal domain of Cti6 that is indispensable for co-repressor recruitment. We substantiated that amino acids 450–506 of Cti6 bind PAH2 of Sin3. To analyse this Cti6–Sin3 Interaction Domain (CSID) in more detail, selected amino acids within CSID were replaced by alanine. It is revealed that hydrophobic amino acids V467, L481 and L491 L492 L493 are important for Cti6–Sin3 binding. In addition to PAH2 of Sin3, CSID also binds to tetratricopeptide repeats (TPR) of Cyc8. Indeed, we could demonstrate Cti6 recruitment to promoters of genes, such as RNR3 and SMF3, containing iron-responsive elements (IRE). Importantly, Sin3 is also recruited to these promoters but only in the presence of functional Cti6. Our findings provide novel insights toward the critical interaction domain in the co-regulator Cti6, which is a component of regulatory complexes that are closely related to chromatin architecture and the epigenetic status of genes that are regulated by pleiotropic co-repressors.
Cardiovascular risk profiles of GnRH agonists and antagonists: real-world analysis from UK general practice
Authors: Davey Patrick , Kirby Mike G.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the mainstay for the management of metastatic prostate cancer. Available pharmaceutical ADTs include gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists. Here, real-world data are presented from the UK general practitioner Optimum Patient Care Research Database. The study investigated the hypothesis that GnRH antagonists have lower cardiac event rates than GnRH agonists.

Methods

The incidence of cardiac events following initiation of GnRH antagonist or agonist therapy was investigated in a population-based cohort study conducted in UK primary care between 2010 and 2017.

Results

Analysis of real-world data from the UK primary care setting showed that relative risk of experiencing cardiac events was significantly lower with degarelix, a GnRH antagonist, compared with GnRH agonists (risk ratio: 0.39 [95% confidence interval 0.191, 0.799]; p = 0.01). Patients that received degarelix as first-line treatment switched treatment more frequently (33.7%), often to a GnRH agonist, than those who initiated treatment with a GnRH agonist (6.7–18.6%).

Conclusion

Screening for known or underlying vascular disease and identifying those at high risk of a cardiac event is important for risk mitigation in patients with prostate cancer receiving hormone therapy. The GnRH antagonist degarelix conferred a significantly lower risk of cardiac events than GnRH agonists. Prior to treatment, patients should be stratified based on level of cardiovascular (CV) risk, and appropriate lifestyle, and pharmacological interventions to mitigate CV risk should be recommended. CV risk factors and patient response to the intervention should be monitored at regular intervals.
Effects of acute warming on cardiac and myotomal sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum ATPase (SERCA) of thermally acclimated brown trout (Salmo trutta)
Authors: Vornanen Matti
Published: September 2020

At high temperatures, ventricular beating rate collapses and depresses cardiac output in fish. The role of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) in thermal tolerance of ventricular function was examined in brown trout (Salmo trutta) by measuring heart SERCA and comparing it to that of the dorsolateral myotomal muscle. Activity of SERCA was measured from crude homogenates of cold-acclimated (+ 3 °C, c.a.) and warm-acclimated (+ 13 °C, w.a.) brown trout as cyclopiazonic acid (20 µM) sensitive Ca2+-ATPase between + 3 and + 33 °C. Activity of the heart SERCA was significantly higher in c.a. than w.a. trout and increased strongly between + 3 and + 23 °C with linear Arrhenius plots but started to plateau between + 23 and + 33 °C in both acclimation groups. The rate of thermal inactivation of the heart SERCA at + 35 °C was similar in c.a. and w.a. fish. Activity of the muscle SERCA was less temperature dependent and more heat resistant than that of the heart SERCA and showed linear Arrhenius plots between + 3 and + 33 °C in both c.a. and w.a. fish. SERCA activity of the c.a. muscle was slightly higher than that of w.a. muscle. The rate of thermal inactivation at + 40 °C was similar for both c.a. and w.a. muscle SERCA at + 40 °C. Although the heart SERCA is more sensitive to high temperatures than the muscle SERCA, it is unlikely to be a limiting factor for heart rate, because its heat tolerance, unlike that of the ventricular beating rate, was not changed by temperature acclimation.
Kilometer-scale modeling projects a tripling of Alaskan convective storms in future climate
Authors: Poujol Basile , Prein Andreas F. , Newman Andrew J.
Published: September 2020

Convective storms produce heavier downpours and become more intense with climate change. Such changes could be even amplified in high-latitudes since the Arctic is warming faster than any other region in the world and subsequently moistening. However, little attention has been paid to the impact of global warming on intense thunderstorms in high latitude continental regions, where they can produce flash flooding or ignite wildfires. We use a model with kilometer-scale grid spacing to simulate Alaska’s climate under present and end of the century high emission scenario conditions. The current climate simulation is able to capture the frequency and intensity of hourly precipitation compared to rain gauge data. We apply a precipitation tracking algorithm to identify intense, organized convective systems, which are projected to triple in frequency and extend to the northernmost regions of Alaska under future climate conditions. Peak rainfall rates in the core of the storms will intensify by 37% in line with atmospheric moisture increases. These results could have severe impacts on Alaska’s economy and ecology since floods are already the costliest natural disaster in central Alaska and an increasing number of thunderstorms could result in more wildfires ignitions.