bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplemental Material: Seismic evidence for craton chiseling and displacement of lithospheric mantle by the Tintina fault in the northern Canadian Cordillera
Authors: Estève Clément , al. et
Published: June 2020

Methodology for SKS splitting analysis and teleseismic body-wave tomography, calculation of thermal length scale, comparion of NCC with cratonic xenoliths, eight supplemental figures, and a table with compiled estimates.
Unusual presentation of submandibular lingual nerve sheath tumour as sublingual stone
Authors: Straughan Alexander J , Badger Christopher , Javan Ramin , Fuson Andrew , Joshi Arjun S
Published: June 2020

A 60-year-old woman was referred to the otolaryngologist for 18 months of left-sided tongue pain and taste changes. Surgeon-performed ultrasound of the submandibular region revealed a hyperechoic mass. Wharton’s duct was dilated proximally and the submandibular gland demonstrated normal vascularity. While these findings were highly suspicious for submandibular gland sialolith, an in-office attempt at sialolithotomy suggested an alternate process or mass. After imaging failed to further elucidate an aetiology, surgical exploration revealed a well-circumscribed submandibular mass associated with the lingual nerve. The mass was removed en-bloc and pathology revealed a schwannoma of the lingual nerve.
Point-of-care ultrasound to evaluate volume status in severe hyponatremia
Authors: Evins Connor , Rao Aniel
Published: June 2020

A 51-year-old man was hospitalised for severe hyponatremia. Initial history and physical examination suggested hypovolemia, and he was treated with normal saline at 100 mL/hour. After several days, his hyponatremia failed to improve, and then worsened without resolution of presenting ataxia and fatigue. He had no new complaints including no cough or orthopnea. He had no jugular venous distention or oedema, and his lungs were clear to auscultation. Point-of-care ultrasound was used, revealing a distended inferior vena cava, pulmonary oedema and pleural effusion, suggesting hypervolemia. Based on ultrasound findings, we treated with 60 mg oral torsemide two times per day. Hyponatremia resolved without complication within 48 hours. In this case, physical examination failed to recognise volume status change from hypovolemic to hypervolemic, increasing hospitalisation and morbidity. The point-of-care ultrasound proved to be an accurate tool for proper volume evaluation, and may be used as an adjunct to physical examination for hyponatremic patients.
Exposure to impacts across a competitive rugby season impairs balance and neuromuscular function in female rugby athletes
Authors: Black Stephanie E , Follmer Bruno , Mezzarane Rinaldo André , Pearcey Gregory E P , Sun Yao , Zehr E Paul
Published: June 2020

Objectives

We used objective assessment tools to detect subtle neurological deficits that accompany repetitive and mild head impacts in contact sport across a season.

Methods

Female participants (n=13, 21±1.8 years old; 167.6±6.7 cm; 72.8±6.1 kg) completed assessments pre and post the varsity rugby season. A commercial balance board was used to assess static balance and response to dynamic postural challenge. Spinal cord excitability via the soleus H-reflex was assessed in both legs. Video analysis was used to identify head impact exposures.

Results

A total of 172 potential concussive events were verified across 11 athletes (15.6±11; 95% CI: 6.5 to 19.8). Balance performance was worse at post-season for total centre of pressure which increased by 26% in the double stance on a stable surface (t(12)=-2.33; p=0.03;d=0.6) and by 140% in the tandem stance on a foam surface (t(12)=-3.43; p<0.01;d=0.9). Despite that, dynamic postural performance was improved after the season (p<0.01). Spinal cord excitability in rugby athletes did not change across the season but deviated from normative values at baseline.

Conclusion

Quantitative measures revealed that exposure to impacts across a competitive rugby season impair balance in two specific stances in female rugby athletes. Tandem-leg stance on an unstable surface and double-leg stance on firm surface are useful assessment conditions when performed over a low-cost balance board, even without clinically diagnosed concussion.
10% lidocaine spray for pain control during intrauterine device insertion: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Panichyawat Nalinee , Mongkornthong Theethat , Wongwananuruk Thanyarat , Sirimai Korakot
Published: June 2020

Background

Various medications have been investigated for their efficacy in pain reduction during intrauterine device (IUD) insertion, but there is currently no standard recommendation. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of 10% lidocaine spray in reducing pain during copper-containing intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) insertion.

Methods

This study was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Reproductive-age women were randomised at a 1:1 ratio into 10% lidocaine spray or placebo spray group. A 10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate pain during several steps of the IUD insertion procedure, and after the procedure.

Results

One hundred and twenty-four women were included and 62 women were randomised in each group. Baseline characteristics between groups were similar. The 10% lidocaine spray group demonstrated significantly lower median VAS immediately after IUD insertion than the placebo group (2.95 (IQR=1.00–5.63) vs 5.00 (IQR=3.35–7.00), respectively; p=0.002). Similarly, women receiving 10% lidocaine spray reported significantly lower median VAS than those receiving placebo during tenaculum use and uterine sounding. The maximum median VAS occurred immediately after Cu-IUD insertion. The proportion of women who reported VAS≥4 during uterine sounding and after IUD placement was significantly lower in the 10% lidocaine group than in the placebo group (p<0.05). Median change in VAS from baseline to IUD placement was significantly different between 10% lidocaine spray group and placebo group (1.85 (IQR=0.08–4.03) vs 3.6 (IQR=2.40–5.80), respectively; p=0.004).

Conclusion

10% lidocaine spray was found to be an effective local anaesthetic method for reducing pain during insertion of Cu-IUD.

Trial registration number

Clinicaltrials.govNCT03870711
PROSPECT guideline for hallux valgus repair surgery: a systematic review and procedure‐specific postoperative pain management recommendations
Authors: Korwin-Kochanowska Katarzyna , Potié Arnaud , El-Boghdadly Kariem , Rawal Narinder , Joshi Girish , Albrecht Eric
Published: June 2020

Hallux valgus repair is associated with moderate-to-severe postoperative pain. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the available literature and develop recommendations for optimal pain management after hallux valgus repair. A systematic review using PROcedure SPECific Postoperative Pain ManagemenT (PROSPECT) methodology was undertaken. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in the English language from inception of database to December 2019 assessing postoperative pain using analgesic, anesthetic, and surgical interventions were identified from MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database, among others. Of the 836 RCTs identified, 55 RCTs and 1 systematic review met our inclusion criteria. Interventions that improved postoperative pain relief included paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or cyclo-oxygenase-2 selective inhibitors, systemic steroids, ankle block, and local anesthetic wound infiltration. Insufficient evidence was found for the use of gabapentinoids or wound infiltration with extended release bupivacaine or dexamethasone. Conflicting evidence was found for percutaneous chevron osteotomy. No evidence was found for homeopathic preparation, continuous local anesthetic wound infusion, clonidine and fentanyl as sciatic perineural adjuncts, bioabsorbable magnesium screws, and plaster slippers. No studies of sciatic nerve block met the inclusion criteria for PROSPECT methodology due to a wider scope of included surgical procedures or the lack of a control (no block) group. The analgesic regimen for hallux valgus repair should include, in the absence of contraindication, paracetamol and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or cyclo-oxygenase-2 selective inhibitor administered preoperatively or intraoperatively and continued postoperatively, along with systemic steroids, and postoperative opioids for rescue analgesia.
Characterization of bioactive cranberry fractions by mass spectrometry
Authors: Denis Marie-Claude , Dubé Pascal , Dudonné Stéphanie , Desjardins Yves , Matei Cristina , Delvin Edgard , Levy Emile , Furtos Alexandra
Published: June 2020

Increasing evidence indicates that fruits contain functional bio-active compounds that have several preventive and therapeutic health benefits. Our group has recently conducted studies to assess the potential effects of cranberry polyphenolic fractions on intestinal Caco-2/15 epithelial cells and a substantial reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation was observed. The aim of the present work was to determine the polyphenolic species most likely responsible for the observed biological activity. Low, medium, and high molecular weight cranberry fractions were generated with a Sephadex LH-20 column by elution with 60% MeOH, 100% MeOH, and 70% acetone, respectively. The total phenolic content in these fractions was determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu method. A combination of LC–MS and MALDI-TOF methods were used to characterize the nature of polyphenolic compounds in the cranberry extracts. High resolution mass spectrometry was used to generate empirical formulae for the detected species. The low molecular weight fraction was essentially constituted of small phenolic acids (hydroxycinnamic and hydroxybenzoic acids). The medium fraction was mostly composed of anthocyanin, flavonols (quercetin, myricetin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol), procyanidins monomers (epicatechin, catechin), dimers, and few small oligomers. The heavy fraction was devoid of phenolic acids and anthocyanins, and it contained for the most part oligomers and polymers of procyanidins. Proanthocyanidins oligomers up to n = 22 were detected, which is, to our knowledge, the largest individual polymers reported to date. With this approach, it was also possible to distinguish between the A-type and B-type linkages.
The scattering of Dirac spinors in rotating spheroids
Authors: Fu Gao Zhi , Xing Chen Ci , Na Wang
Published: June 2020

There are many stars that are rotating spheroids in the Universe, and studying them is of very important significance. Since the times of Newton, many astronomers and physicists have researched gravitational properties of stars by considering the moment equations derived from Eulerian hydrodynamic equations. In this paper we study the scattering of spinors of the Dirac equation, and in particular investigate the scattering issue in the limit case of rotating Maclaurin spheroids. Firstly we give the metric of a rotating ellipsoid star, then write the Dirac equation under this metric, and finally derive the scattering solution to the Dirac equation and establish a relation between differential scattering cross-section, $$\sigma $$σ, and stellar matter density, $$\mu $$μ. It is found that the sensitivity of $$\sigma $$σ to the change in $$\mu $$μ is proportional to the density $$\mu $$μ. Because of the weak gravitational field and the constant mass density, our results are reasonable. The results can be applied to white dwarfs, main sequence stars, red giants, supergiant stars and so on, as long as their gravitational fields are so weak that they can be treated in the Newtonan approximations, and the fluid is assumed to be incompressible. Notice that we take the star’s matter density to be its average density and the star is not taken to be compact. Obviously our results cannot be used to study neutron stars and black holes. In particular, our results are suitable for white dwarfs, which have average densities of about $$10^{5}$$105–$$10^{6}$$106 g cm$$^{-3}$$-3, corresponding to a range of mass of about $$0.21{-}0.61 M_{\bigodot }$$0.21-0.61M⨀ and a range of radius of about $$6000{-}10,000$$6000-10,000 km.
Equatorial circular orbits in Kerr–Newman–de Sitter spacetimes
Authors: Slaný Petr , Stuchlík Zdeněk
Published: June 2020

Circular motion of test particles in the equatorial plane of the Kerr–Newman–de Sitter (KNdS) spacetime is analyzed for both black-hole and naked-singularity backgrounds. We present relations for specific energy, specific angular momentum and Keplerian angular velocity of a particle on equatorial circular orbit, and discuss criteria for the existence of such orbits giving limits on spacetime parameters. The orientation of motion along circular orbits is discussed from the point of view of locally non-rotating frames. Finally, we discuss the stability of circular motion against radial perturbations and determine limits on the existence of stable circular orbits, as well as the structure of stability regions in KNdS spacetimes.
Opinion dynamics in typical networks with local and global social impacts together
Authors: Wu Liangfang , Liu Shiyang , Zhang Huimin
Published: June 2020

We introduce a new opinion model to study the opinion evolving in three typical networks (small-world network, scale-free network and highly clustered scale-free network) by employing Monte Carlo numerical simulation. To consider important social influence, we propose a heat bath like optimized opinion model that includes both local and global social impacts. By employing the new opinion model into three typical networks, we have found the main determinants of the evolution of the opinion, that were the weight constant of the local and global effects, the structure of the network, the size of the network and the initial density of the average opinion. The simulations show how those factors affect the evolving time of reaching the consensus quantitatively. Our model also could explain the cases of de facto standard and lock-in effect, well-known phenomenon in economics and business management.
An observer deployment algorithm for information source positioning based on Naive Bayes
Authors: Hong Zhang , Bing Guo , Yan Shen , Yun-Cheng Shen , Xu-Liang Duan , Xiang-Qian Dong
Published: June 2020

The accurate positioning of the propagation and diffusion source points of personal information is of great practical significance for the protection of personal information security. Currently, a popular method is to locate the data diffusion source point by deploying a certain number of observers and collecting the data propagation information from observers. In view of the deployment of observers, it was found that there is an important correlation between the observer deployment location and the data propagation time delay by analyzing the relationship between the positioning accuracy of information sources and the deployment location of observers, and then an optimal deployment strategy based on Naive Bayes model (NBM) was proposed. At last, it was verified that the proposed deployment strategy can significantly improve the positioning accuracy of information source by comparing the model network with the actual network, which is of great significance for the security control of personal information propagation.
Numerical investigation of water droplet impact on horizontal beams
Authors: Hao Guannan , Dong Xiangwei , Li Zengliang
Published: June 2020

Droplet impact on elastic beams is considered as a novel model of energy transfer which is a promising alternative in applications of energy harvesting. The transient impact process is dominated by the fluid–solid interaction and the capillary effect. The numerical model based on SPH method allows predicting the droplet dynamic behaviors due to super-hydrophobic (SH) surfaces. The predicted results are also compared with relevant experiments to verify the robustness and flexibility of the model. For fixed-fixed beams, typical regimes, namely spherical-shaped rebound, pancake-shaped rebound and splashing of droplet, are identified. The elasticity of beam causing the earlier lifting-off phenomenon of droplet is investigated in detail. By comparison, cantilever beams repel the droplet in a smoother way and large deformation of the beam is considered. The slipping-off phenomenon is expected to occur under specific conditions on soft cantilevers. The effect of elasticity plays a key role in the maximum deflection and oscillating frequency for both types of beams. This work examines the effectiveness of the framework based on the numerical model which provides further understandings for droplet impacts. It may lay the foundation for practical applications, such as engineering piezoelectric raindrop energy harvesters and plant leaves repelling raindrops.
The field-field and dipole-dipole coupling effects on the entanglement of the interaction between two qutrits with a two-mode field
Authors: Jahanbakhsh F. , Tavassoly M. K.
Published: June 2020

In this paper we study the interaction between two qutrits ([Formula: see text]-type three-level atoms) with a two-mode field in a high quality cavity, considering the field-field (F-F) correlation and dipole-dipole (D-D) interaction. By defining a Hamiltonian corresponds to D-D interaction related to the two three-level atoms, we introduce a generalized Hamiltonian of Jaynes-Cummings model for the desired system and then the associated Schrödinger equation is solved. Finally, by achieving the reduced density matrix and then the linear entropy as a criterion for the entanglement, we investigate the influence of the F-F and D-D coupling on the degree of entanglement of the system. Our results show that there exists specific initial superposition of atomic states wherein the stable value of linear entropy is accessible. In addition, in such cases the F-F correlation and D-D interaction have not considerable effect on the entropy. Moreover, in general, as we have shown, the entanglement can be tuned appropriately by choosing the parameters involve in the model.
Quantum entangling or disentangling by complex integration transformation
Authors: Zhang Chun-Zao , Du Jian-Ming , Fan Hong-Yi
Published: June 2020

We find some new integration transformations in complex space, which plays the role of entangling or disentangling in quantum mechanics. Their applications in operator ordering are presented. We employ the entangled state representation and the method of integration within ordered product of operators (IWOP) to find them.
Nematic alignment of self-propelled particles: From particle to macroscopic dynamics
Authors: Degond Pierre , Merino-Aceituno Sara
Published: June 2020

Starting from a particle model describing self-propelled particles interacting through nematic alignment, we derive a macroscopic model for the particle density and mean direction of motion. We first propose a mean-field kinetic model of the particle dynamics. After diffusive rescaling of the kinetic equation, we formally show that the distribution function converges to an equilibrium distribution in particle direction, whose local density and mean direction satisfies a cross-diffusion system. We show that the system is consistent with symmetries typical of a nematic material. The derivation is carried over by means of a Hilbert expansion. It requires the inversion of the linearized collision operator for which we show that the generalized collision invariants, a concept introduced to overcome the lack of momentum conservation of the system, plays a central role. This cross-diffusion system poses many new challenging questions.
On the indeterminacy of Milnor’s triple linking number
Authors: Amundsen Jonah , Anderson Eric , Davis Christopher William
Published: June 2020

In the 1950s Milnor defined a family of higher-order invariants generalizing the linking number. Even the first of these new invariants, the triple linking number, has received fruitful study since its inception. In the case that a link [Formula: see text] has vanishing pairwise linking numbers, this triple linking number gives an integer-valued invariant. When the linking numbers fail to vanish, the triple linking number is only well-defined modulo their greatest common divisor. In recent work Davis–Nagel–Orson–Powell produce a single invariant called the total triple linking number refining the triple linking number and taking values in an abelian group called the total Milnor quotient. They present examples for which this quotient is nontrivial even though each of the individual triple linking numbers take values in the trivial group, [Formula: see text], and so carry no information. As a consequence, the total triple linking number carries more information than do the classical triple linking numbers. The goal of this paper is to compute this group and show that when [Formula: see text] is a link of at least six components it is nontrivial. Thus, this total triple linking number carries information for every [Formula: see text]-component link, even though the classical triple linking numbers often carry no information.
The entropy evolution of a Schwarzschild–(Anti) de Sitter black hole
Authors: Wang Xin-Yang , Wang Yi-Ru , Liu Wen-Biao
Published: June 2020

Based on the definition of the interior volume of spherically symmetry black holes, the interior volume of Schwarzschild–(Anti) de Sitter black holes is calculated. It is shown that with the cosmological constant ([Formula: see text]) increasing, the changing behaviors of both the position of the largest hypersurface and the interior volume for the Schwarzschild–Anti de Sitter black hole are the same as the Schwarzschild–de Sitter black hole. Considering a scalar field in the interior volume and Hawking radiation with only energy, the evolution relation between the scalar field entropy and Bekenstein–Hawking entropy is constructed. The results show that the scalar field entropy is approximately proportional to Bekenstein–Hawking entropy during Hawking radiation. Meanwhile, the proportionality coefficient is also regarded as a constant approximately with the increasing [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, considering [Formula: see text] as a dynamical variable, the modified Stefan–Boltzmann law is proposed which can be used to describe the variation of both the mass and [Formula: see text] under Hawking radiation. Using this modified law, the evolution relation between the two types of entropy is also constructed. The results show that the coefficient for Schwarzschild–de Sitter black holes is closer to a constant than the one for Schwarzschild–Anti de Sitter black holes during the evaporation process. Moreover, we find that for Hawking radiation carrying only energy, the evolution relation is a special case compared with the situation that the mass and [Formula: see text] are both considered as dynamical variables.
In situ synthesis of hierarchical nitrogen-doped MoS2 microsphere with an excellent visible light-driven photocatalytic nitrogen fixation ability
Authors: Abulizi Abulikemu , Maimaitizi Hujiabudula , Talifu Dilinuer , Tursun Yalkunjan
Published: June 2020

A photocatalyst of high-performance hierarchical nitrogen-doped MoS2 (N-MoS2) microsphere was fabricated by an in situ hydrothermal method in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The as-prepared N-MoS2 microsphere was self-assembled by extremely thin interleaving petals, where CTAB acts as a nucleation site for the formation of the interleaving petals due to the strong interaction between CTA+ and [Formula: see text]. N-MoS2 showed higher N2 fixation ability (101.2 [Formula: see text] mol/g(cat)h) than the non-doped MoS2 under the visible light irradiation, and the improved photocatalytic activity could be ascribed to that the doped N narrows the band gap, and the surface reflecting and scattering effect caused by the hierarchical structure enhance the light adsorption. The trapping experiment of active species was also investigated to evaluate the role of photogenerated electrons in the photocatalytic reaction process. Meanwhile, the possible mechanism for the formation and excellent photocatalytic performance of N-MoS2 microsphere were also presented.
Free Radicals: A Marriage of Solid State Science and Electrochemistry
Authors: Manthiram Arumugam
Published: June 2020

A half-century-long marriage between solid state science and electrochemistry has led to many wonders, impacting our lifestyle and well-being of people and the planet.
Estimating the Capital Costs of Electrowinning Processes
Authors: Stinn Caspar , Allanore Antoine
Published: June 2020

Novel electrolysis processes remain strong technological contenders for advances in sustainable materials processing, in particular metals, yet will need to compete economically with currently-deployed production facilities. To evaluate the technoeconomic efficacy of new electrolytic metal extraction processes, an understanding of the capital and operating costs of electrowinning is necessary. Estimation of electrochemical operating costs has been afforded due attention, yet capital cost (CAPEX) trends are far less understood. Herein, we attempt to show that estimating the capital costs of electrowinning processes via conventional chemical engineering scaling laws is not possible. Instead, we propose a capital cost model for electrochemical processes based on relevant operating parameters such as current density, temperature, and voltage. The new model for capital cost describes within ±30 to 100% the capex for existing electrochemical processes, sufficient for order of magnitude and preliminary design capital cost estimation.
Electrochemical Destruction of ‘Forever Chemicals’: The Right Solution at the Right Time
Authors: Witt Suzanne , Rancis Nick , Ensch Mary , Maldonado Vanessa
Published: June 2020

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are manmade compounds used in a variety of industrial applications, and their consumption by humans can lead to many adverse health effects. Due to their high stability, destroying PFAS once they have contaminated water streams has become a major challenge. One promising remediation method is electrochemical oxidation (EO). To perform EO, electrode materials that can withstand high current and voltage conditions are required. Boron-doped diamond (BDD) is one such material, and its viability has been demonstrated for the EO of PFAS in a custom water treatment system applied and optimized to high-strength waste streams laden with PFAS. The permanent and disruptive nature of the technology lends itself to applicability in complex media such as IX regenerates, RO rejects, aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), industrial wastewaters, and landfill leachates, among others.
Ridinilazole, a narrow spectrum antibiotic for treatment of Clostridioides difficile infection, enhances preservation of microbiota-dependent bile acids
Authors: Qian Xi , Yanagi Karin , Kane Anne V. , Alden Nicholas , Lei Ming , Snydman David R. , Vickers Richard J. , Lee Kyongbum , Thorpe Cheleste M.
Published: June 2020

This is the first study to demonstrate in humans the relationships between Clostridioides difficile antibiotic treatment choice and bile acid metabolism both during therapy and after treatment cessation. The results show a microbiota- and metabolome-preserving property of a novel narrow-spectrum agent that correlates with the agent’s favorable sustained clinical response rates compared with broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment.
Grading TESI: Crypt and villus formation in tissue-engineered small intestine alters with stem/progenitor cell source
Authors: Gilliam Elizabeth A. , Schlieve Christopher R. , Fowler Kathryn L. , Rea Jessica N. , Schall Kathy A. , Huang Sha , Spence Jason R. , Grikscheit Tracy C.
Published: June 2020

The small intestine can enhance its absorptive and digestive surface area through a process known as villification. Tissue-engineered small intestine achieves mature villification at varying levels of success between differing sources. We have developed a consistent grading schema of morphology and characterized it across multiple developmental pathways, allowing objective comparison between differing constructs and sources.
A Natural Compound Mixture Containing Arctigenin, Hederagenin, and Baicalein Alleviates Atopic Dermatitis in Mice by Regulating HPA Axis and Immune Activity
Authors: Nguyen Ly Thi Huong , Oh Tae-Woo , Nguyen Uy Thai , Choi Min-Jin , Yang In-Jun , Shin Heung-Mook
Published: June 2020

Forsythiae Fructus, Lonicerae Flos, and Scutellariae Radix are medicinal herbs that possess anti‐inflammatory and anti‐atopic effects. Hence, we investigated the effects of a mixture (ADM), containing arctigenin, hederagenin, and baicalein, which are the main compound from these herbs on atopic dermatitis (AD) skin lesions and the underlying molecular mechanisms. ADM was topically applied to dorsal skin lesions of 2,4‐dinitrochlorobenzene‐ (DNCB‐) induced ICR mice, and the expressions of proinflammatory mediators and HPA axis hormones were investigated. The topical application of 0.5% ADM significantly reduced the DNCB‐induced symptoms of AD in ICR mice. Histological analysis showed that ADM exerted antiatopic effects by reducing the epidermal thickness and mast cell infiltration into skin lesions. 0.5% ADM attenuated the levels of TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐4, and VEGF in skin lesions and serum IgE. The production of Th1‐/Th2‐related cytokines in splenic tissues, including TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐12, and IL‐4, were also decreased by ADM treatment. ADM diminished corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and corticosteroid (CORT) production in DNCB‐induced mice. In vitro, ADM reduced the productions of TARC/CCL17, MDC/CCL22, IL‐6, and ICAM‐1 in TNF‐α/IFN‐γ‐ (TI‐) stimulated HaCaT cells by suppressing the ERK and JNK signaling pathways. In addition, ADM inhibited corticotropin‐releasing hormone/substance P‐ (CRH/SP‐) induced VEGF production in HMC‐1 cells. These results suggest that ADM may have therapeutic potential in AD by reducing inflammation and attenuating HPA axis activation.
Long-Term Ketogenic Diet Induces Metabolic Acidosis, Anemia, and Oxidative Stress in Healthy Wistar Rats
Authors: Arsyad Aryadi , Idris Irfan , Rasyid Andi A. , Usman Rezky A. , Faradillah Kiki R. , Latif Wa Ode U. , Lubis Zidni I. , Aminuddin Aminuddin , Yustisia Ika , Djabir Yulia Y.
Published: June 2020

Background. Ketogenic diet has been used as supportive therapy in a range of conditions including epilepsy, diabetes mellitus, and cancer. Objective. This study aimed to investigate the effects of long-term consumption of ketogenic diet on blood gas, hematological profiles, organ functions, and superoxide dismutase level in a rat model. Materials and Methods. Fifteen male Wistar rats were divided into control (n = 8) and ketogenic (n = 7) groups. Controls received standard diet contained 52.20% of carbohydrates, 7.00% fat, and 15.25% protein; meanwhile, the ketogenic group received a high-fat-low-carbohydrate diet which contained 5.66% of carbohydrate, 86.19% fat, and 8.15% protein. All rats were caged individually and received 30g of either standard or high-fat-low-carbohydrate pellets. The experiment was carried out for 60 days before the blood samples were taken and analyzed to obtain blood gas, cell counts, organ biomarkers, and plasma antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. Results. The rats subjected to ketogenic diet experienced a marked decrease in body weight, blood sugar, and increased blood ketones (p<0.05). The average blood pH was 7.36 ± 0.02 and base excess was −5.57 ± 2.39 mOsm/L, which were significantly lower than controls (p<0.05). Hematological analysis showed significantly lower erythrocyte, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels. No significant changes were found in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, urea, and creatinine levels, indicating normal liver and kidney functions. Nevertheless, plasma SOD level significantly reduced with ketogenic diet. Conclusion. Long-term ketogenic diet induces metabolic acidosis, anemia, and reduced antioxidant enzyme level in rats following 60 days of consuming high-fat-low-carbohydrate diet.
Development of MRI Projection Mapping System for Breast‐Conserving Surgery in the Operating Room: Preliminary Clinical Results in Invasive Breast Cancer
Authors: Amano Maki , Kitabatake Toshiaki , Nakata Otoichi , Ichikawa Yuko , Inaba Reiko , Ito Kazuyuki , Ogura Kanako , Ozaki Yutaka , Kojima Kuniaki , Aoki Shigeki , Kuwatsuru Ryohei
Published: June 2020

Aim. To evaluate the feasibility of a newly developed prototype MRI projection mapping (PM) system for localization of invasive breast cancer before breast‐conserving surgery. Methods. This prospective study enrolled 10 women with invasive breast cancer. MRI was performed in both prone and supine positions. The tumor location was drawn on the breast skin using palpation and sonography while referring to the prone MRI (i.e., a conventional method). A maximum intensity projection image generated from the supine MRI was projected using our PM system, and the tumor location was drawn. The PM system consisted of a projector and a camera and was used to measure the shape of the breast surface using the structured light method. Breast‐conserving surgery was performed based on the conventional method. We compared the tumor size and location between the PM and conventional methods or pathology. Results. There were no significant differences in the maximum diameters of invasive cancers between the PM system and the conventional method or pathology. The maximum discrepancy in tumor location between the PM and conventional method was 3–8 mm. Conclusions. This PM system may support breast‐conserving surgery by showing the tumor size and location on the breast surface.
Suprascapular Nerve Pulsed Radiofrequency for Chronic Shoulder Pain in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Cristiani Federico , Hernandez Maria A.
Published: June 2020

Pulsed radiofrequency of the suprascapular nerve has shown efficacy in adults with chronic shoulder pain, but its use in pediatrics is relatively new. We present a case of a successful use of pulsed radiofrequency to treat refractory chronic shoulder pain in an adolescent patient. Case Report. We present a 53 kg, 14-year-old female, with a medical history of septic arthritis of the left shoulder within the first month of life leading to persisting pain during childhood. She presented with a complaint of progressive pain starting at age 12, refractory to analgesics including opioids and intra-articular injection of local anesthetic and steroids. After pulsed radiofrequency of the suprascapular nerve, significant pain relief and improvement of the range of motion was obtained. These results were maintained at the 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up visits with the pain being reported as mild and manageable with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Conclusion. There is limited data today of the use of pulsed radiofrequency for pediatric chronic pain. We successfully used this intervention in a 14-year-old patient with chronic shoulder pain extrapolating from adult experience and as a last resort after all other treatments had failed.
Aberrant Driving Behaviours on Risk Involvement among Drivers in China
Authors: Shao Hai-peng , Yin Juan , Yu Wen-hao , Wang Qiu-ling
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study is to validate the version of Driver Behaviour Questionnaire (DBQ) by considering distractions, fatigue, and drunk driving, the main reasons for accidents in China, as independent parts of violations and errors and further explore the effects of demographic/driving variables and all factors on risk involvement (accident involvement and penalized points). 241 drivers filled in a self-completion questionnaire with 28 items conducted in Xi’an in August 2018. Exploratory factor analysis confirmed a five-factor structure, including violations, distracted driving, errors, drunk driving, and fatigued driving. The frequency of aberrant driving behaviours indicated that distractions were the most prevalent behaviours followed by fatigue. The results showed that drivers with lower education and longer annual mileages were positive with accident involvement while there was no significance in penalized points. Violations and distractions were important factors causing both accidents and penalized points. Therefore, it is effective to reduce accident involvement by establishing educational training and related laws or installing intelligent monitor vehicle equipment to warn drivers to improve safety.
The Association between Emergency Department Super-Utilizer Status and Willingness to Participate in Research
Authors: Young Henry W. , Martin Emmett T. , Kwiatkowski Evan , Tyndall J. Adrian , Cottler Linda B.
Published: June 2020

Background. Research based on emergency departments (EDs) primarily focuses on medical conditions. There is limited research that investigates patients who willingly participate in research. This current study explored ED super-utilizers’ (SUs’) and nonsuper-utilizers’ (NSUs’) attitudes toward research. Objective. The study assesses the willingness of SUs to participate in research. We hypothesize that the SU population will be as interested as nonutilizers in participating in medical research. Methods. This prospective observational study stratified participants into SU and NSU cohorts based on their self-reported number of ED visits within 6 months. Surveys were captured in a secured database and analyzed using SAS 9.4. Results. 7,481 completed questionnaires. SUs were more interested in participating in all types of research compared to NSUs. Both groups were most willing to participate in surveys. Neither group was particularly interested in studies that required medications. SUs were not more willing to participate in studies without payment than NSUs. Both groups trusted researchers at the same rates. Conclusion. Although rarely included in medical research, SUs were more willing to participate in nearly all types of research and expressed a similar trust in medical research when compared to nonsuper-utilizers.
Selected Metal Matrix Metalloproteinases and Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases as Potential Biomarkers for Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis in Children with Unilateral Hydronephrosis
Authors: Bieniaś Beata , Sikora Przemysław
Published: June 2020

Renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis caused by congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) may lead to the development of obstructive nephropathy (ON) and the impairment of kidney function. Hence, the identification of early biomarkers of this condition might be of assistance in therapeutic decisions. This study evaluates serum and urinary metalloproteinases MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 as potential biomarkers of ON in children with congenital unilateral hydronephrosis (HN) caused by UPJO. Forty-five (45) children with congenital HN of different grades of severity and twenty-one (21) healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Urinary and serum concentrations of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were measured using specific ELISA kits. The urinary excretions were expressed as biomarker/creatinine (Cr) ratios. To evaluate the extracellular matrix remodelling process activity, the serum and urinary MMP-1, -2, -9/TIMP-1, -2 ratios were also calculated. In comparison with the controls, patients with HN, independent of the grade, showed significantly increased median serum MMP-9, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2, median urinary MMP-9/Cr, and TIMP-2/Cr ratios. Lower median values of serum MMP-2/TIMP-1, MMP-9/TIMP-1 in patients with HN were also revealed. Additionally, higher urinary MMP-2/Cr, lower urinary MMP-2/TIMP-2, and lower serum MMP-9/TIMP-2 ratios were observed in patients with HN grades 3 and 4. Patients with ON diagnosed by renal scintigraphy had a significantly higher median serum MMP-9 concentration and lower median serum MMP-9/TIMP-1, -2 ratios in comparison with those without this condition. Patients with nonglomerular proteinuria had a significantly higher median serum TIMP-1 concentration, a higher median urinary TIMP-2/Cr ratio, and a lower serum MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio compared to those without this symptom. The relationship between the measured biomarkers and the relative function of the obstructed kidney showed no correlations. The ROC curve analysis showed a promising diagnostic profile for the detection of ON for serum MMP-9 and the serum MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-9/TIMP-2 ratios. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that patients with HN, particularly with grades 3 and 4, are at higher risk of renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. The noninvasive markers of this condition considered are urinary MMP-2/Cr and MMP-9/Cr, serum MMP-9, serum and urinary MMP-2, MMP-9/TIMP-1, -2. Additionally, serum MMP-9 and MMP-9/TIMP-1, -2 may become promising markers of ON.
Noninvasive MRI Native T1 Mapping Detects Response to MYCN-targeted Therapies in the Th-MYCN Model of Neuroblastoma
Authors: Zormpas-Petridis Konstantinos , Poon Evon , Clarke Matthew , Jerome Neil P. , Boult Jessica K.R. , Blackledge Matthew D. , Carceller Fernando , Koers Alexander , Barone Giuseppe , Pearson Andrew D.J. , Moreno Lucas , Anderson John , Sebire Neil , McHugh Kieran , Koh Dow-Mu , Chesler Louis , Yuan Yinyin , Robinson Simon P. , Jamin Yann
Published: June 2020

Noninvasive early indicators of treatment response are crucial to the successful delivery of precision medicine in children with cancer. Neuroblastoma is a common solid tumor of young children that arises from anomalies in neural crest development. Therapeutic approaches aiming to destabilize MYCN protein, such as small-molecule inhibitors of Aurora A and mTOR, are currently being evaluated in early phase clinical trials in children with high-risk MYCN-driven disease, with limited ability to evaluate conventional pharmacodynamic biomarkers of response. T1 mapping is an MRI scan that measures the proton spin-lattice relaxation time T1. Using a multiparametric MRI-pathologic cross-correlative approach and computational pathology methodologies including a machine learning–based algorithm for the automatic detection and classification of neuroblasts, we show here that T1 mapping is sensitive to the rich histopathologic heterogeneity of neuroblastoma in the Th-MYCN transgenic model. Regions with high native T1 corresponded to regions dense in proliferative undifferentiated neuroblasts, whereas regions characterized by low T1 were rich in apoptotic or differentiating neuroblasts. Reductions in tumor-native T1 represented a sensitive biomarker of response to treatment-induced apoptosis with two MYCN-targeted small-molecule inhibitors, Aurora A kinase inhibitor alisertib (MLN8237) and mTOR inhibitor vistusertib (AZD2014). Overall, we demonstrate the potential of T1 mapping, a scan readily available on most clinical MRI scanners, to assess response to therapy and guide clinical trials for children with neuroblastoma. The study reinforces the potential role of MRI-based functional imaging in delivering precision medicine to children with neuroblastoma.

Significance:

This study shows that MRI-based functional imaging can detect apoptotic responses to MYCN-targeted small-molecule inhibitors in a genetically engineered murine model of MYCN-driven neuroblastoma.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: Challenges and Opportunities for a New Decade
Authors: Serrano César , George Suzanne
Published: June 2020

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) provides a paradigm to evaluate new molecularly targeted therapies and to identify structural and functional mechanisms for drug response and resistance. Drug development in GIST has successfully exploited the high reliance on KIT/PDGFRA oncogenic signaling as a therapeutic vulnerability. The recent arrival of avapritinib and ripretinib to the GIST arena has aimed to further improve on precision kinase inhibition and address tumor heterogeneity in imatinib-resistant GIST. The two main clinical challenges for the forthcoming years entail tumor eradication in patients with early-stage GIST, and maximization of tumor response in late-stage disease. To succeed, we will need to better understand the mechanisms behind adaptation to KIT inhibition and apoptosis evasion, tumor evolution after successive lines of treatment, and to explore clinically novel creative therapeutic strategies, with the overarching goal to tackle the intrinsic oncogenic complexity while minimizing adverse events.
Durvalumab Consolidation Treatment after Chemoradiotherapy for an HIV-Positive Patient with Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kawai Shoko , Suzuki Hiroe , Okuma Yusuke
Published: June 2020

Due to antiretroviral therapy, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients and non-HIV patients have a similar life expectancy. The leading cause of death among HIV patients is lung cancer. However, clinical toxicities with immune checkpoint inhibitors, including durvalumab, in HIV-positive patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unknown. We report a 45-year-old Japanese HIV patient, who was safely treated with durvalumab consolidation therapy after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) for locally advanced NSCLC without significant toxicities until his disease progressed. This case demonstrates the safety of durvalu­mab consolidation therapy for HIV-positive patients after CCRT for locally advanced NSCLC.
Effects of Cochlear Implantation on Tinnitus and Depression
Authors: Sarac Elif Tugba , Ozbal Batuk Merve , Batuk Isa Tuncay , Okuyucu Semsettin
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Tinnitus is prevalent in 66–88% of cochlear implant users. The reason for this high prevalence is that hearing impairment is the most common cause of tinnitus. Objective: This study aims to determine the effect of cochlear implant and to compare the severity of tinnitus and depression in adult cochlear implant users with tinnitus. Methods: Patients diagnosed with tinnitus filled out the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory and the Beck Depression Inventory during CI candidate evaluation. The audiological follow-up in the present study included only patients suffering from tinnitus before the cochlear implant surgery. This study included only patients who had tinnitus handicap inventory and Beck Depression Inventory clinical records pre- and postoperatively, including 23 adult cochlear implant users (13 males and 10 females) aged 18–76 years. Results and Conclusion: There was a statistically significant decrease in the severity of tinnitus and depression after cochlear implant. As the participants’ tinnitus level and grade decreased, their depression levels also decreased. Depression levels decreased after the use of a cochlear implant compared to before cochlear implantation. Cochlear implantation is currently used only for hearing restoration. However, cochlear implantation may be used in rehabilitation for tinnitus in patients with severe hearing loss and in tinnitus patients. In addition cochlear implantation can be a depression rehabilitation method by reducing tinnitus.